Merry Christmas 2008

Merry Christmas from our family to yours. We have had a year of personal growth, good health and learning on every level. For the upcoming year, our goals are to continue following the path set before us, be examples for our children and those around us, and look to the future as our children quickly grow before our eyes. I will add that I finally graduate in June and we all can't wait.

Patrick Starts Scouts

Our big "8 yr old" starts scouts tonight. He is so excited to be hanging with his buddies and making new friends. This will be a really good experience for Patrick and his Leaders. You know who you are!

Special Invitation for our friends and family. Patrick's Baptism is set for Saturday-January 3rd 10am at the Stake Center.Patrick would be really pleased to see those that care about him there.

Patrick Celebrates Turning 8

Turning 8 seemed like a very long event for Patrick. He was able to share in the excitement with his classmates. He helped me make cupcakes with candy canes on top. Then a few days later he had an all sport party with his closest buddies. They played flag football, baseball toss and made their own pizzas. I even got roped into making one of my ice cream cakes. I still think the kids would just be so excited with a big bowl of frosting and some spoons. Then I can send them all home. Just kidding friends.

ARIZONA FALL HARVEST

Halloween Family Memories

Lauren's Almost 11yrs Old

Okay- Lauren doesn't actually turn 11 for a few more weeks but she insisted on a pool party. So we had to do it before the water changed temps. The party was a big hit! Only 18 girls showed up and one lonely brother. Now she is counting the days until she really turns the magical 11!!

Alaska can keep the white stuff!

I just got back from a quick trip up to Alaska this week. As you can see, it snowed a few weeks early this year and it almost felt like Christmas.
I went from my brothers wedding where they got married in a beautiful log lodge. Then the next day the crazy storm hit. By the way, we were up in Palin country and you really can see Russia from there!!! he he he

My Three Little Princesses

Just thumbing through some old photos tonight and came across " PRINCESS PATRICK". He used to spend hours letting his sisters dress him up. Sadly, he would have made an adorable little girl. Let's just say that this is one of many incriminating photos his girl friends will see. He better pray that he never runs for president.

Family Night Out at DIAMONDBACKS Game

The kids had so much fun learning about the players, eating junk and staying up really late on a school night. They earned it though so good job reading kids. Keep up the great work.

PROUD TO BE AMERICAN

After recently spending time in a foreign country, we had the humbling experience of remembering what a wonderful country we could go back to. So take a moment in your day to be thankful for the little things you have and those that you hold dear to your heart.

Views Of Mazatlan

Emerald Bay Resort, Mazatlan

Monsoon Craziness

On Tuesday we
were hit with ping-pong size hail, torrential rains and the next minute a beautiful rainbow.

Summer Storms Finally Hit

Our dog Ellie, was just one of our family members that took advantage of the storms we have been having. She couldn't get enough of it. That silly old dog!

Starting Out On The Hike

Monkey SEE, Monkey DO!
We hiked one of the many trails outside of Oak Creek Canyon. It was a great hike for the family and Amanda's friend Roan.

Now That I Am 40

I blew it today and let the cat out of the bag that I turned 40 this year. The age is actually no problem. At this point in life, I am getting real sleep, no diapers, no bottles, and our house is on a new chapter. Because of that timing and the events of my life, I have been able to find myself this past year. What a tremendous change that has made in me spiritually. In fact, our lesson today was on evaluating ourselves and where we are on a daily basis with our spiritual tasks vs household chores. This is something we all torment ourselves with and never seem to be quite perfect. Relax and remember that the sacrifices you are making to love yourself and Christ at the same time is all He asks us in the long run.

Today is my 4 year Anniversary

When you look back at the amazing transformation, it is kind of hard to believe what my body has been through. After getting off 140 lbs and seeing what a difference this change has made in our lives, I would do it all over again. I am so thankful for the love and support of my sweet husband. No one could have prepared us for the emotional ups and downs of this process. We continue to take each day, one prayer at a time!

Life Before Gastric Bypass Surgery

Minnesota Zoo Trip

In late June, we took a long awaited trip back to Minnesota to see some good friends and their families. Our children had a good time getting to know each other again. It was absolutely beautiful!

Mall Of America- Minnesota

In the same trip we spent time at the Mall of America with the Nagle family. In fact, we spent over 6 hours at the Nickolodeon Adventure Park (inside the mall) and never even shopped. My husband doesn't think that is a problem but Amanda and I might have to go back for little shopping.

The Picture of Innocence

Aaaah summer vacation!! Only a few weeks left and the little ones trickle off to school again. Our home will slowly recover from the wild ride and begin a whole new version of wild. Now we will have two middle schoolers!