Ireland's in Arkansas

Pictures of Miles

2011-12-11T18:42:00.001-08:00

I had one of my friends that has gotten really good at photography take Miles' pictures when he was 6 days old. I really loved how they turned out. It was hard to narrow it down to only share 10 photos!

Miles

2011-12-11T13:24:00.000-08:00

Miles Jeffrey is here and we are loving every second with him. He was born on November 2nd at 1:09 am. he weighed 7 pounds 10 ounces and was 19 inches long. I know that I need to write about his birth before I forget everything, but I have just been consumed with cuddling our little guy.

Here is the story... Early in the morning on November 1st I woke up with some mild contractions. (I wasn't too surprised because when walking around on Halloween I was feeling pretty uncomfortable). I had an appointment to see my doctor that morning at 10 am and I was surprised when he checked me and I was dilated to a 5. He told me that I could check into the hospital right then or I could try to walk around to progress further. I told him that I had better head home and pack a bag and I was really wanting to go without an epidural this time so I wanted to get as far as I could before checking in.

The rest of the day I packed and cleaned and did a lot of lunges, squats and walking around to try to get my contractions going. I had a lot of contractions throughout the day but nothing consistent. When Zack and Jamon got home from school I took a long walk with both of them. It seemed nothing was really happening so we continued on with our regular schedule, we headed to Austin's soccer game and then came home and Jeff got on a call for work from 8-9:30 and I got the kids to bed. Around 10 pm we were debating whether to head to the hospital or lay down and try to sleep for a while. I decided to lay down because I was so tired, right then my contractions got really strong. At 11:20 pm I was resting on the bed and had a really strong contraction and at the same moment Jeff made me laugh and my water broke. I called my best friend that lives up the road and told her we were ready for her to come and stay with the kids so we could head to the hospital. It took her just a few minutes to get to my house but we had to leave even before she got there because my contractions were coming every 2 minutes and were pretty intense. I got up to labor and delivery at 11:55 and they checked me and I was at a 10 but the baby was still pretty high, the nurses were amazed that I was so far along but still in complete control. I labored for the next 45 minutes or so until my nurse told me that I would have to just try and push him out or my doctor would be taken to do an emergency c-section. So I pushed for 3-4 contraction and he was out! I have been told by several friends that they really had the urge to push the baby out towards the end and I must say that I totally felt the opposite, pushing was the last thing I wanted to do. It was quite an experience and went really well, I was happy that I was able to accomplish my goal of not having any medicine. The nurse said that she wishes that everyone could come in and have a baby like I did.

We are so very thankful that our precious Miles arrived to us safely, we love him so much!

I could hardly sleep in the hospital because I was so obsessed with holding him.

The kids were immediately in love with Miles. Zack was especially taken by him and said a few times that he had no idea that Miles was going to be so cute.

Austin loves to lay in bed with Miles

I cannot come close to counting the amount of kisses Miles has received on his head from his big sister Kate.

October News

2011-10-31T21:00:00.000-07:00

October was a great month for us as we prepared for our baby to come. We got in a lot of Soccer and Football games, field trips, and or course Halloween.

One of our favorite things is when we check on our kids before we go to bed and they are in funny positions, cuddled up with a brother or just in an odd spot. Zack loves to sleep with our cat Olive, so it was not too surprising to find him cuddled up with her.

In the picture below, I went to check on Austin and could not find him (this is always fun). So, I went looking for him. He had cuddled up in the cradle in our room. I had to pull back the blankets to find him, he was a sweaty mess but very cute!

It had been quite for a long time so I went to check on Austin and Kate. They were in the crib and Austin was reading her a book. I love these moments!

Kate and I were able to go on a field trip with Austin to a great pumpkin patch. Austin was not very interested in sticking close to school mates to eat lunch and such, and didn't want to participate much in the activities unless Kate would join him. She of course was excited for this.

Austin and Kate on the cow train.

Austin lives for playing in his soccer games twice a week. And we love to watch him play. He is so serious while he plays that he will hardly crack a smile. He is really good, and usually scores 5-8 goals a game. He has a great awareness for the game and is fast!

Both Zack and Jamon participated in flag footfall this year. They both did really good and were always excited when they had a game or practice. We loved to watch them play but often had to divide and conquer with one soccer game and two football games each Saturday.

For one of our Family Home Evenings we went on a hike at Hobbs State Park. Jeff had put together a fun scavenger hunt with scriptures to read along the way. We found lots of good walking sticks and even a neat cave that we hope to explore another day when we have our headlamps with us. I was proud of my 38 week pregnant body for handling the hike so well!

Carving pumkins is a long process in this house. It usually ends up with me carving them all. Luckily this year Jamon and Zack were awesome at cleaning them out and Jeff, Zack and I took care of the carving.

For Halloween this year Zack was Clark Kent (aka superman), Kate was a pumpkin fairy (again), Jamon was a ninja and Austin was Yoda (he was this 2 years ago). I am glad that my kids do not stress very much about what to be for Halloween and that we can go to the dress up box and something will work, this is a little more tricky for Zack because he has outgrown everything and for Kate who does not have much for dress ups yet.

We were able to go to our wards Trunk or Treat and regular Trick or Treating. Kate and I also went to the boys' school on Halloween for their class parties. Jamon liked showing off his little sister to his friends at school.

Almost Here!

2011-10-31T06:36:00.000-07:00

It is hard to believe that my baby will be here so soon! This pregnancy has really been so good, I feel very blessed! I know it has helped me a lot to stick to exercising 5-6 times a week. I feel like I have absolutely savored every movement and moment of this pregnancy, I have loved to have my kids feel their little brother move.

It is crazy for me to say that I am actually not done being pregnant yet! I am uncomfortable but not miserable. There are still some things that I need to get done and my mom will get here on November 7th, so it would be nice if he comes sometime around then. I am expecting him to come a little before his due date (11-11-11) but maybe he will be late! I know there will be some big adjustments once he arrives, but we sure are looking forward to cuddling him!

Of course I have not done as great as I would like with pregnancy pictures but it has been better than with any of my other pregnancies. I took one at 28 weeks, 35 weeks, and a few at 38 weeks.

28 weeks

35 weeks

38 weeks

38 weeks pregnant and my cute Austin. Yikes, I'm looking pretty big in this one!

A Good Sunday

2011-09-25T19:11:00.000-07:00

Today was a great Sunday because it started off with the Primary Program at our church which is always wonderful. Then when we got home...

I was in the backyard with Austin and we spotted this turtle in our yard. We spent a little while playing with it and then went to the pond by our house and let it go. You can imagine with the animal lovers we have in our house how wonderful this was!

Let the Races Begin!

2011-09-24T06:13:00.000-07:00

This month Jeff competed in two different races. On the 5th he ran a 5k with Run for a Child (unfortunately I didn't get a picture of this one). And on the 24th he went to Tulsa with his friend Matt Pabst to do the Warrior Dash.

What I have come to realize is that I do not make a big enough deal out of some of Jeff's accomplishments because I already know that he is pretty amazing so I am not surprised with his good results. He knew he had these two races coming up and since he really doesn't get a chance to exercise, he decided to start start running a little bit in August to prepare. With Jeff's really busy schedule he really didn't get a chance to train as much as he would have liked to and he also ended up coming down with a bad cold the week of the 5k. Even with his lack of training and going up against avid runners he got 2nd place in his age group in the 5k.

Jeff was really excited to do the Warrior Dash, mostly because he thought it would be fun. He does not think that running is very fun but if you add in several obstacles then it can be fun! The Warrior Dash is a little bit longer than a 5k and you have obstacles such as climbing walls and nets, running through mud (not Jeff's favorite part), crawling under barbed wire, jumping over fire etc. This race was run in several different heats and Jeff and his friend got their right before their starting time which put them at the back of the pack, which in hindsight was not very good because on the first stretch that was just running they had a hard time getting through the crowd in the narrow beginning stretch. Even with a slow start he came in #109 out of over 7,600 participants. When Jeff does it next time he will make sure to get there earlier to be in the front of the pack so that his time can be better.

So yes, I do have to brag that Jeff is awesome and deserves far more praise than I give him. I can't imagine how good he would do if he actually trained for these events!

After the dash!

Matt and Jeff post race. They did wash off (the best they could) and change clothes, but Jeff's car totally stunk when they got home!

On August 20th Jeff also competed in The Memory Maker Triathlon to benefit Alzheimer's. This is a team triathlon where one person bikes, one swims and Jeff ran.

Happy Birthday Kate

2011-08-27T13:21:00.000-07:00

Kate has been looking forward to turning 3 for months! She was so happy about everything and her brothers also seemed just as happy.

The last 3 years with Kate has brought so much joy into our home. We never knew how much we needed a little girl in our family until she was born. All of her brothers love her so much and like to hold or cuddle her but she won't tolerate too much of it... unless it comes from Austin. It has been so fun for Jeff and I to see the neat relationship that Austin and Kate have, which has been surprising since Austin is 100% boy and Kate is 100% girl. Kate loves to put on "lippy stuff", get her finger and toenails painted, sing, play with dolls or kitchen things and she loves to talk... which she is very good at. We all love you so much Kate!

Kate enlisted Austin to open most of the presents, which he was totally willing to help.

Kate loved her new cash register. Austin and Kate have really enjoyed playing with this together. I am so happy that they are such good friends.

All Kate would ever ask for for her birthday was a "PINK cake". Jeff had some influence on the type of cake, so we had pumpkin bars. Everyone was very pleased and said dad made a good choice.

After cake and presents we went to our subdivision's pool. Kate is relaxing.

Austin (and Jeff) are always looking for ways to add adventure and they once again did not fail. Jeff would launch Austin in the air and Austin would do a back flip...

or a front flip. We love this adventurous little guy!

First Day Of School

2011-08-27T12:35:00.000-07:00

I really was not looking forward to the first day of school this year... just like ever other year. But this year was extra hard for me because I just didn't want summer to end, we have been having such a fun time and I was also going to miss Austin since he would now be in all day Kindergarten.

But what I know it really comes down to is that if they are okay then I am okay. We have had a few years with Zack when it was so hard, every day, to get him to go to school. It was so hard to send him to school in tears nearly everyday. But once Jamon went to school that seemed to solve Zack's problems.

I am happy to report that they are all doing awesome this year! They all seem to have gotten great teachers and they have good attitudes. They come home happy and I must admit that I have enjoyed some time with Kate before the baby comes.

Up and ready for the first day of school, it is an adjustment from our Summer time routine to get up so early. School starts at 7:30 and gets out at 2:30.

Jamon was a little nervous but settled right in.

Austin has a really great teacher, which calms my fears of being away from him. He went to class great and started right into his work, so Jeff and I just snapped this picture and headed out. The next day he asked if I could just drop him off at the curb and not walk him in. I have been really impressed with how well he has adjusted to school and one of the best parts is that when he does get home from school he is so happy and gives me a lot of hugs and cuddles.

Kate started Joy School with her good friend. This will be my 7th year of doing this preschool group and since Kate will not start Kindergarten for another 3 years my friend and I decided to take a more relaxed approach with our teaching this time and will have it be mostly play time.

Brian's Surprise 40th Birthday

2011-08-26T13:00:00.000-07:00

On August 4th I flew to Greenville South Carolina where I met my sisters and parents, from there we rented a car and drove to Johnson City Tennessee to surprise my brother Brian for his 40th birthday. This was a dream come true! This was the first time we have ever gone anywhere without all of our kids or spouses. I loved soaking up 4 days with my parents, siblings and my brother's amazing family.

It was really the best surprise that I have ever been involved with. My Sister in Law, Melanie had called us at the beginning of the year with this idea and we all thought it was perfect so we started looking for flights. Brian's two oldest kids were also in on the planning from the beginning and I am so impressed that they never let anything slip, I had a hard time not slipping up when I would talk to Brian on the phone.

We arrived at my brothers house pretty late in the evening and we sent my parents to the door first, Brian answered the door and was in shock to see them. My sisters and I waited in the car for about 5 minutes and then we went to the door, my dad opened the door and we were standing there... Brian was pretty much speechless (besides saying "no way!" over and over) and could not completely wrap his mind around the fact that we were there, it was SO much fun!

I really appreciated Jeff trying to work from home and having so much fun with the kids, I am pretty sure they didn't miss me much while I was gone. Every time I called they were all having such a great time and had some fun story to tell about what they had been doing.

Johnson City and the surrounding area was really beautiful. There were great trails and waterfalls everywhere. I will certainly need to bring my boys back to explore. This swimming hole we went to with multiple waterfalls would have been just what my boys would love.

Brian, Megan, Angela and Rochelle at another impressive waterfall

We had a great time celebrating my brothers 40th birthday with him and his family. His wife and four kids are pretty wonderful and I was trying to think of a way I could pack Ashton in my suitcase because I knew that my boys would love some time with their cousin.

It was precious time for me to be with my siblings, as I was with them and on my flight home I counted my blessings many times that I was sent to the family I was. I am the youngest and I couldn't ask for better examples.

Trip to Nevada

2011-07-31T10:22:00.000-07:00

The kids and I made a trip to Sparks Nevada to visit my family for 10 days. It was a last minute trip but we are sure glad that we did it. I was a little nervous about flying all that way with just the kids and I but they all did really good. The hardest part was certainly being away from Jeff for so long.

My kids LOVE my parents house, I would offer them a variety of activities to do like hiking, going to the movies, Lake Tahoe, or the Water Park and they really just wanted to stay around Grandma and Papa's house and be with cousins. I don't blame them, it really is fun!

Zack and Jamon with Aunt Angela and cousins eating one of many ice cream cones.
One of the best parts of this vacation was my kids being able to be with their cousins! We miss them so much and wish that we could see them more that once every year of two!

Zack wasted no time in catching lizards in the backyard. Austin was holding one that jumped right onto his shirt.

We had an extra special treat one day when Jamon and his cousin Dryden spotted a snake and then Zack caught it. Here I am holding it, it was really so cute and just a baby. We think it is a King Snake.

Even Kate did a great job of holding the snake!

Zack was in heaven with all the lizards around and this snake made an extra special memory for him. They made a little den that the snake could get out of if it wanted to and when we returned from Ice Cream that night it was gone.

Kate and her cute cousin Elsie

I hiked with Zack and Jamon, three of my nieces, my Brother in law Scott and my dad to the top of Canoe Mountain. It is a tradition that my dad has done with each of the grand kids once they turn 8 years old. Jamon will not be 8 until December but got to go early since we are not sure when we will be back. I was the first mom to go along.

We had to get a trip into Lake Tahoe while we were there. We had a lot of fun enjoying the beautiful weather and surroundings. The water is seriously SO cold! Kate handled it better than the boys and I . My kids really wanted to be in the water so they would run in and give it a try but then would end up on the beach rolling in the warm sand.
Zack buried Jamon in the sand.

Zack and grandpa created this trench that all the kids would jump into and did a sort of long jump competition. Zack will certainly give his dad a run for his money when he gets older!

Cousin Dryden taking a turn

We looked over and found Kate, Austin, Elsie, Ben and Brady making sand angels in the warm sand.

Austin with cousins Ezra and Brady.
These three boys are quite the crew!

We celebrated Kate's birthday while we were there even though her birthday is not for a few more weeks. She wanted grandma to make her a pink cake... and grandma definitely came through on that one! It was so fun to celebrate with cousins.
It was a great vacation and the day we got home the kids were all asking to go back to grandma and grandpa's house, but to take dad with us this time.

Enjoying Summer

2011-07-31T09:45:00.000-07:00

This Summer has been one of the best ever! I think a lot of it has to do with the ages of my kids. Everything feels a little bit more laid back and they have been content with pretty much anything we do. They are old enough to know that we will get our jobs done around the house and then we can play.

We started our Summer perfectly with the Ireland Reunion and we just got back from two weeks to Sparks Nevada to visit my family, with all the rest of the time we have been playing at the pool or at home, and mixed in some outings here and there.

Jamon running in the sprinklers. I remember as I was taking pictures of the kids doing this, I thought that being a child really is carefree and joyful!

Kate and Zack warming up on the cement

We have been to the pool more this summer than any other. Partly because it is SO hot, and also the kids are at a very easy age to take so that I am not completely worn out by the time we leave.

Kate loves to go to the pool!

We have enjoyed a lot of popsicles this summer!

It's a BOY!!!

2011-06-30T16:10:00.001-07:00

On the 29th we found out that we are having a boy. I am not surprised because I have had a feeling for several weeks that it would be a boy. When I got home with the kids I had them all sit around the table and told them that the treat I would bring out would tell them what gender the baby was, so pink cupcakes for a girl or brownies for a boy. The kids were all happy and not too surprised since I have been telling them for weeks that I thought it would be a baby brother.

I know I just posted a photo of myself pregnant but this one was taken the day before the ultrasound and we really did not get great ultrasound pictures because the placenta kept getting in the way of his face. We were so happy to see that everything looks normal with the baby... he was even measuring to be due the 5th of November, although the birthday 11/11/11 would be pretty cool!

The Dentist

2011-06-30T15:56:00.001-07:00

My kids LOVE to go to the dentist. I must say that I love it too. They do all 3 boys at the same time and we are done within 30 minutes... every time, this includes the time in the waiting room.

The waiting room is so fun! It has big stuffed animals, train sets, books, video games, big screen TV. It is the one waiting room that my kids would like to stay in, but we have never waited longer than 5 minutes to get into our appointment.

The best part is that they do all 3 boys at the same time and next time Kate will be getting her teeth done with them. The people that work there are so good with my kids and the boys even get to watch Tom and Jerry that is playing on the televisions on the ceiling.

I typically wait until my kids are 3 to get them into the dentist but Kate was so ready to get her mouth cleaned as well. We have her on the schedule for next time and she is hoping that she gets the purple chair, which they said they will make sure she gets it.

20 Weeks!

2011-06-26T17:48:00.000-07:00

I am going to try and be better with this pregnancy and take some more pictures, although I really don't want to. I am 20 weeks pregnant and feel like I have really started to show more in the past week... probably from all the food I ate at the Ireland Family Reunion!

Ireland Family Reunion

2011-06-26T14:58:00.001-07:00

Jeff and I were lucky this past week to be in charge of the Ireland reunion. Since we were in charge this year, we decided to have it in our neck of the woods and had everyone come to Branson, Missouri. We can certainly empathize with those families that traveled the longest distance from Utah, since it is usually our family that is making that trip. We were so grateful that all of Jeff's 6 siblings, their kids, and Jeff's parents were able to make it. We did miss 7 of the older nieces and nephews that were busy with summer jobs, and one off on his mission for our church. We had 41 people in all, including the newest addition of the family -- 2 1/2 week old Mason.

We had a tough time finding a place that would accommodate our large group, but the place we ended up going with worked out quite well and Zack even told us that he wished we lived there.

I had a lot of pictures so it was really hard to narrow down the ones to include!

Zack and his cousins Jacob and Brynlee collecting tadpoles and frogs.

The boys added quite a bit of craziness to the hot tub.

Zack with a frog on his shirt :)

During family night we decorated puzzle pieces for each family member then hooked them all together in the order of when we joined the family... as you can see the puzzle has no edges because it will continue to grow into eternity.

We took a day trip into Arkansas to one of mine and Jeff's favorite hikes, the Lost Valley Trail. Here is a picture of some of the family crossing over the natural bridge.

Austin on his way out of the cave at Lost Valley.

After our hike we headed over to Steele Creek for some swimming.

Zack with his cousins Jacob and Jared climbing a tree while they wait for their turns at the relay races.

Our teenage nieces and nephews racing.

After we checked out of the house we had lunch in Branson and then headed our separate ways to some shows. Our family went to a Magic show that was very entertaining.

We were so thankful for this time we were able to spend with our family and look forward to 2013 when we get to do it again.

After Branson, two of Jeff's siblings and their families came to Arkansas to see our home and go to the Wild Animal Wilderness Safari. We were so grateful they took the extra time to be with us!

Petting the kangaroos

Jamon, Jacob, Brynlee and Zack petting the kangaroo.

Jacob holding the Ball Python.

The Capuchin monkey "Chloe" jumping off Beth and climbing onto Jared.

Kate petting the Zebra

Zack and Jamon holding their newest nephew Mason. We were amazed at how well Mason did for being so new, as well as his mom being able to handle this trip and reunion with a brand new baby!
My kids loved Mason and hope that our baby will be like him, since they hardly heard him cry and he was so small.

Thank you Ireland family for coming to the reunion and seeing the area that we call home. We do love living in Arkansas but certainly miss our families!

Summer Begins

2011-06-26T14:32:00.000-07:00

Zack and Jamon both did very well in school this year and both got on the honor roll. Jamon also received the Excellence in Mathematics Award for his class. We are proud of all their hard work and look forward to enjoying summer.

We had a Robin nest in our tree this year that Zack enjoyed checking on daily.
It certainly is summer in Arkansas and we have enjoyed several days at our subdivision pool already.

Kid Stuff

2011-05-20T09:45:00.001-07:00

Now that we are down to the last month of school before Summer Break, we have had some fun things going on.

Jamon got the Star Student award at school, which is given to kids that are trying hard and excelling academically. Jamon has always loved to learn, but we have noticed in the past few months that he has been trying really hard.

Zack did a Wax Museum at school and he was Benjamin Franklin. All the kids in the 3rd grade had to research and memorize parts then they had two days that they "performed", first for the all the kids at the school and second for parents. The kids were set up in the halls and the classroom, they had a pose they had to do then you would press their button and they came to life and recited their memorized speech.
Zack did awesome! He memorized his part perfectly and look soooo cute! I made his outfit the day before and he was totally pleased with it, so we went with it. He was a bit concerned with wearing the knee highs but agreed he looked the part when he wore them:)

Austin graduated from Joy School with his two buds. It has been a fun two years with this group and hard to believe Kindergarten is next. I must say they were the liveliest group we've had yet. Never a dull moment and so much fun!
For the past six years I have been doing Joy School with the same group of moms, we rotate our turns and I must say each group has been so different and so fun in their own way. We are blessed with good friends for sure.

Lunch date at Red Robin with the moms and their boys!

Happy Mother's Day!

2011-05-20T09:22:00.001-07:00

It was a wonderful Mother's Day for me. I was well taken care of by my husband and kids. Jeff And the kids had worked all day Saturday on the yard while I was gone for the day. And on Sunday when I had a pounding headache after nursery Jeff made sure I had a good nap. The kids all made me wonderful gifts and gave me lots of love. Jeff gave me a new recipie software and made a perfectly wonderful dinner.

After Zack had given me a card he made I went and laid down in my bed, he came in a few minutes later and told me that he had one more gift left to give me. I was shocked when he showed me my wedding ring that I have been missing for the past few months. I had pretty much given up on it! I made the mistake a few months ago when I took my ring off and left it on my bathroom counter, and even when I put it down I thought to myself that I should not leave it there. I am pretty sure Kate must have carried it off and I had been through the house everywhere I thought that it could be. Zack found it behind the entertainment center. Yay!!!

Good News!

2011-05-20T08:57:00.000-07:00

We finally broke the news to our kids and family a few weeks ago that we are expecting baby #5 November 11th. We are so thrilled to add this new addition to our family!

Back in November I had a miscarriage and surprisingly I was quite at peace with it. I was incredibly sick the short time that I was pregnant with nausea and up to 3 migraines a week, I just really felt like something was wrong. We even went to the doctor and saw the baby's heartbeat, but I still knew that it would end in a miscarriage.

This pregnancy has been a major contrast. The first trimester was great! I hardly felt sick and even kept my energy up. Now that I am in my second trimester I have started into my typical headaches and I am bit more tired but still feel good. Because of feeling so well I would not be surprised if #5 is a boy... We'll find out next month!

This is how we told our family

We sent our kids on a scavenger hunt for the letters BABY then they had to put it together to spell baby. It was great to fill them in on the news so they can get excited with us. I think Zack was starting to notice that I was getting a little pudgy!

Austin's Birthday

2011-05-20T08:29:00.001-07:00

Austin turned 5 at the end of April. He has been looking forward to this for a long time. He is excited that this means he will go to Kindergarten in August. I am going to miss Austin in a major way when he heads off to full day kindergarten! Anyone who REALLY knows Austin, knows that he is a ton of fun and full of life and great company. Yes, he is active, 100% boy, and puts on a tough front but he is a sweetheart and my little pal and Kate's play buddy while the boys are at school. What will Kate and I do while he is at school? We are just soaking him up while we can.

Some things we love about Austin- He is fun, plays so well with Kate, infectious smile, can easily turn from a sour mood to pure happiness, says funny things constantly, loves his big brothers and cannot wait for them to get home from school, he is very athletic and can do any sport he wants, Austin loves to be funny and get a reaction out of others.

A few days before his birthday we celebrated with 5 of his buddies. Austin helped me make some cupcakes, he was pretty specific that he wanted chocolate cupcakes with blue frosting, sprinkles and one candle.

This was the cutest group of boys! (and Kate of course)

Zack and Jamon wanted to pick out some cereal for Austin for his birthday. He was very thankful for this special treat! I don't know of anyone that is more fun to watch open presents than Austin. He acts like every present is what he always wanted. It makes the giver feel very happy.

Austin was even able to play in a soccer game on his birthday. I think he scored about 11 goals this game... very fun for us to watch. He doesn't let the fact that he is one of the smallest and youngest on the team hold him back.

After soccer games were over with we came home and Austin opened the rest of his presents.

Since we had already had cupcakes a few days before we had cinnamon rolls on Austin's actual birthday. The suggestion of cinnamon rolls was made by Jeff (not a surprise!).

April

2011-05-20T07:43:00.001-07:00

April was a really great month! I was certainly spoiled for my birthday by family and friends. A few days before my birthday I got together with 3 of my dear friends and they gave me a basket full of 30 fun gifts. I got to open one thing everyday for 30 days, the kids and I all had fun with this thoughtful gift!

Jeff arranged for some friends to watch our kids for a few nights while he took me away on a surprise getaway. I had no idea where we were going. After driving for a bit I finally guessed that we were headed to Dallas Texas. Once in Dallas I thought we were probably going to some sort of concert but it took me all the way until we were inside the new Cowboy Stadium to realize that we were there to see Kenny Chesney, Zac Brown band and Billy Currington. It was a fantastic concert and so much fun! We had a great time watching the interesting people around us too. After the concert we headed to the hotel and then the next day we stopped by the place where President Kennedy was shot before heading home. It was a great weekend and we were so thankful for our dear friends for watching our kids.

Standing near the location where President Kennedy was shot.

We got a ton of rain! It was the first time I was truly sick of the rain. Kate would ask to see the "river" or "waterfall" in the backyard. We had a lot of canceled soccer games that Ausitn was pretty disappointed about.

We had a nice quiet day celebrating Easter. We always celebrate Easter on Saturday so that we can reserve Easter Sunday for focusing on the real meaning on Easter. It was another stormy/rainy day so we stayed at home and played then headed out in the afternoon to a movie.

The boys were excited when Kate woke up so they could help her explore her basket.

The kids all ready for church on Easter Sunday. We did not do new clothes this year, but they all still look really cute!!! Kate is wearing the dress I wore at her age on Easter Sunday.

Kate LOVES to get her finger nails painted. She is so good at sitting so still and then waiting for the nail polish to dry. It is a bit of an obsession along with "lippy stuff" so I try to keep these things out of sight.

Kate cannot stand when our cat Olive comes into her room while she is trying to go to bed. It will be all quiet and then she will cry for mom or dad and we know right away that it must be Olive. We don't know why Olive loves to go into her room at night and never goes in there otherwise. One night when I went to check on Kate before I headed to bed I saw that Olive had finally waited long enough to go in, when Kate was fast asleep.

March Madness!

2011-03-31T10:43:00.000-07:00

March seemed to be a pretty busy month at times for us. We started off with Zack's Birthday on March 3rd. We had a good time celebrating Zack with just our family. It is amazing to me that he is already 9 years old. It is interesting that Zack's interests are much the same today as they were when he was smaller. He still LOVES nature and animals. Zack enjoys seeing, reading about, pretending, and playing with animals. When he was younger he would flood me with questions about different animals and which one would win if they were in a fight, I think Jeff and I always felt pretty inadequate when trying to answer these questions.
Zack loves to play with others (especially Jamon), it is torture for him when he has to be alone. And he is fun to play with, he is always coming up with something new to play.
We are really proud of Zack in many areas and we are so thankful that he is part of our family.

A new remote control helicopter

A pretend shotgun from Grandma and Grandpa Abbott. Zack specifically asked them for this. He seriously plans for his birthday months in advance.

Zack participated in his first Pinewood Derby on March 5th. He could have competed last year but it was on the day of his baptism and birthday so we opted out. We knew it was important to Zack to participate so Jeff tried to find some time amongst his crazy schedule to help Zack make the car. They pretty much hand sawed the whole thing.
We were SO pleasantly surprised that Zack got 2nd place! Zack asked us before the race if we thought he would get first place or a trophy and we told him that we thought he would not get last place. It was really fun to watch his face as he was realizing that his car was really good!

On March 6th we celebrated Jeff's Birthday. He got several notes and pictures from the kids and some books and talks on CD.

On Friday March 11th we headed down to Little Rock so that Zack and Jamon could participate in the state wrestling tournament on Saturday, and so Jeff could help coach. It was easily the worst run tournament that we have been to. The worst part about it was that they had no real schedule for when the wrestlers were up so they would just call their name and they would need to hurry down to the mat. It was a mess and we were there all day. Austin is trying to make the best of his boredom by playing on the steps. All the kids actually did very well considering the circumstances!

Jamon got 2nd place. We were very proud of him for wanting to compete. He almost got first, it was a tough match for a mom to watch! I am pretty sure the video I took of it would make me laugh because I was bouncing all over the place and cheering on my little guy pretty loudly.

Zack also got 2nd place and ended up loosing to a pretty tough kid that has beat him a few times during the season. But the rest of the kids Zack wrestled he handled easily.
We waited 2 hours after both our boys were done wrestling to even get their medals. This is why Zack is not pictured on the stand... he really wanted to leave without getting his medal because it was taking so long, but I knew he would regret it later, so we just asked for his medal and left.

It is nice to have wrestling over with for the season. It is a long season for us because it is 4 months long and we have 3 practices a week that Jeff also coaches at, and tournaments on the weekend. We are happy with our boys for sticking with it. Austin just did one practice a week and no tournaments. Now that wrestling is over we go right into soccer for Jamon and Austin they both have 2 games and 1-2 practices a week ... luckily spring soccer is only 6 weeks so it goes by pretty quick. We have already watched Austin play in one game and it was a blast!

Our Spring Break was March 23, 24, and 25th. The kids had a fun time playing and being out of school. In the picture above they are playing a game where they would all hide and Zack would come inside and prepare some "yummy food" and then put in on the table under the trampoline to surprise them.
On the 24th Jeff took the day off and we went to Branson Missouri to go to Silver Dollar City. We had a lot of fun at Silver Dollar City and enjoyed seeing many of our friends there. We of course could not leave Branson before stopping for dinner at Fuddrucker's (one of Jeff's favorites).

I just had to throw in a cute picture of Kate. She loves to get dressed up for church and often changes her outfits several times a day into different skirts.

Oh What A Night!

2011-03-01T17:42:00.000-08:00

One week ago today I had one of the craziest evenings ever, and one that I do not want to forget even though I do not want to relive it! It all started when Zack and Jamon got home from school, and they were not in a very good mood. About an hour after being home Jamon was playing around on the couch and fell off and bumped his head hard on our hardwood floor. He immediately got a headache and did not feel well. Jeff and Zack left after dinner for wrestling practice...and right away the craziness starts.

Below are the list of events as they happened within a two hour time frame.

1. I put Jamon in the tub--poor kid was feeling pretty sick from bumping his head. Normally he stays in the tub for quite some time, but he got out after just a few minutes.

2. I sit down to the table and hear a very loud BANG, and I immediately say "Austin?" and he responds with an, "ow, ow... sorry Mom!" I go into my bedroom and he had climbed up my dresser trying to get to the top drawer (shame on me for ever putting occasional goodies and such in this drawer!) He of course had knocked it over and this dresser is huge, almost as tall as I am and very heavy. I'm very grateful he was not hurt badly. -Also sitting on top of the dresser was a cup of milk, which Jeff normally wouldn't put up there but happened to today... luckily when it fell Jeff has some clothes laying on the bed that soaked up the milk nicely.

3. I hear excessive giggling upstairs from Austin and Kate (they have such fun together). I go to check and find that they have been playing with the kitchen set and have filled many cups and bowls with water. Kate's rocking chair and floor have water everywhere.

4. I sit down to the computer and Jamon comes and cuddles on my lap and immediately starts falling asleep, I ask him if he wants to go to his bed and he says he would just like to cuddle with me for awhile. After about 8 minutes he goes rigid and starts throwing up...everywhere. Luckily not on the computer and luckily we were on the hardwood floor. Not to be gross but it was a lot of throw up, covering me and the floor. Jamon felt much better!!!

5. I am not good with throw up, and Jeff is usually the one to clean up any mess. I make my way to the kitchen to clean myself off a bit and totally start gagging. I cannot hold it and I empty my stomach in the sink. It was comical to say the least. I was laughing and Jamon was looking at me like I was crazy. I knew once my stomach was empty I could clean everything up better.

6. I start cleaning and Jamon comes downstairs and tells me that Austin has changed Kate's stinky diaper, and all I could think was, "of course he did." So after I clean up the throw up, I head upstairs to clean up the diaper and I was happy to see that nothing was on the carpet, just 6 dirty wipes and a dirty diaper. Ironically Kate almost never poops in her diaper since she is pretty much potty trained (as I post this she has been accident free for several days).

7. I walk past the bathroom upstairs and see that Austin, Kate or both of them have now played with the kitchen things in the bathroom and the counter is covered with water and spilling onto the floor...of course it is.

8. I get in the shower. When I get out Austin and Kate are running around with strawberries. I put everyone to bed and they all fall asleep right away.

9. Jeff gets home and I tell him all that has happened. He walks into our closet and asks me if I have been in there, then he tells me that Austin must have been trying to climb our dresser in there too because one of the drawers was out and dumped on the floor.

I told Jeff that I was amazed at how totally calm I was during it all, I just couldn't believe that so much was happening!

Snowstorm #2

2011-03-01T17:05:00.001-08:00

The second snowstorm we had came the week after the first one. It was more snow than I have seen in a long time. It was so fun! I couldn't stop looking outside.
It was record snowfall for our area. Of course the kids were out of school for several more days!

Austin trying to make his way back to the door.

Jamon

Jeff getting a measurement

Other areas got even more but we ended up with 18 inches!

Luckily a neighbor took pity on us when he saw us trying to clear our driveway with a sled and he let us borrow his snow shovel.

Zack had no fear jumping off our play set, he knew several inches of snow would break his fall. I love having boys!

Another trip to the sledding hill.

It was so fun to watch people, watch Jeff, snowboard down the hill. I guess Arkansans do not see boarders very often!

A few guys and some kids built up a little jump so Jeff could go off it. They even took some pictures and sent it to him. Some boys came up to Jeff and said, "you are awesome!"

Snowstorm #1

2011-03-01T16:35:00.000-08:00

We got hit with a mix of snow and ice the beginning of February that resulted with my kids having 4 days off of school. Things pretty much shut down when bad weather hits around here because there is not enough of the right kind of equipment to clear the roads.

Jamon and Zack headed right out in the morning on the first day of the snow and didn't go out too much the rest of the week, it really was so cold!

Kate can handle it for a little while if she has her big brother to carry her around.

We totally lack in the department of winter clothing. The plastic bags only last for a short time and the jeans get pretty stiff! We did get Zack a pair of boots before the next storm hit.

We practically had to beg our kids to go out and go sledding! They were content to play inside and stay warm. We ended up having a really fun time with some friends. The kids were so glad we went.

Kate is not a fan of sledding at all. She is perfectly content to watch.

Jeff built up a small jump at the bottom of our street to jump his snowboard off of. Poor guy really needs to live in a place where he can get to some mountains with snow.

Zack's snowman

Austin's snowman... such a funny guy!

Kate thought that the snowmen were really great and would say goodbye to them when we would leave or check on them from the window. She also enjoyed eating the carrots.

Jeff pulling Zack and Jamon

The Calm Before the Storm!

2011-03-01T16:21:00.000-08:00

At the very end of January we had a beautiful day and headed out to a nearby nature trail. It was a good thing we got out and enjoyed the weather because just a few days later the snow really started to come down.

Kate insisted on wearing her crown.

I wish I had video of Austin jumping onto this tree and then shimmying up, it was like he had suction cups on him! He of course wanted to head up farther but for my comfort level this was high enough.

Snowboarding Getaway

2011-03-01T13:18:00.000-08:00

Okay, I am going to try and catch up on the past two months of this new year. It has been a fun and busy one so far!

At the beginning of January Jeff headed back to my hometown for 4 days and 4 nights on a snowboarding getaway. My brother organized things and ended up inviting two of his brother-in-laws to come along with Jeff. My two brother-in-laws that live in Sparks went for a day and also one of my cousins. Jeff's brother Doug came in from Utah for the event (thank you Doug!). I must say I was a tad jealous...but I was so happy for Jeff to go and have such a wonderful time because I know how much he misses boarding now that we live in Arkansas.

They ended up skiing/boarding at Heavenly and Northstar at Tahoe. Jeff was the only one that went for three whole days. They also took advantage of some buffets and Jeff was able to make it to Jimboy's (a favorite Mexican food place) before heading home.

My parents LOVED having all these guys in their house and commented to me several times on what a perfect group they were. They wish this could be an annual event. I know Jeff would totally go for that!

Jeff was so glad that his brother Doug joined him at Tahoe. My parents also really were thankful that Doug came and they enjoyed having him in their home.

I must say that Tahoe is one of the things that I find myself missing living far from home. It is so beautiful! I am grateful Jeff was able to go and have a great time and I am so glad he came home without any injuries!

Traditions

2010-12-31T12:13:00.000-08:00

We had a very sweet Christmas and I think a lot of that comes from the traditions we have. Most of them are from when Jeff and I were growing up and the traditions we had with our families. It is so neat to carry those on with our own children. And we are making new traditions all the time!

When I was growing up something my family did every Christmas was an act of service, it was often for the same family, but they really needed it and I am so thankful my parents started it so that I could see how blessed I was to have toys and food at Christmas and in turn how happy you can make others. I told my boys about this experience that I had growing up and that we needed to find someone we could do something for. Time was running out and I was worried that we were not finding anyone. The week before Christmas I got an e-mail about a family in need. This family did not have a tree or much else. This was a tender mercy for me to be able to show my boys how we could serve.

Another thing we started this year is not too unusual but it was a good first year to start. Zack, Jamon and Austin each drew names at the beginning of December of who they would have for Christmas. Zack had Austin, Jamon had Zack and Austin had Jamon. I told them of one of my memories of doing this in my family...My brother Brian had me and I was thrilled because I thought he was the best. I couldn't wait to open the present he got me. So I chose to open the gift he gave me on Christmas Eve, it was a pair of slippers, and I loved them! I am sure that I liked that they were slippers but I know I loved them because my brother game them to me. (who knows maybe my mom picked them out, but they were from my brother). Each of our boys really got into this. We offered to spend up to $10 to help them since Zack is the only one with any money. Zack had $16 and spent all of it on a gift for Austin and a Birthday present for Jamon, I was so proud of him because I know how long he has saved that money (pretty much since his birthday in March!)

On Christmas Eve we act out the Nativity. Zack read the story from the Bible, Jamon was a shepherd, I was the angel, Jeff was a wise man and Austin and Kate were Joseph and Mary. It was all very precious and done reverently (I was impressed). After that we watch Joy to the World(the story of the Nativity). When we were done with acting out and watching the nativity we all bore our testimonies. I remember growing up we always would say our testimonies on Christmas Eve and I would be so nervous and not wanting to cry (I always would), this is a precious tradition to me.

After testimonies we open one present...

PJ's of course

This tradition I got from my sister in law Beth. For the 24 days before Christmas we open one present each night. Each present is a Christmas book. There is a good mix of fun, sweet and spiritual. On Christmas Eve we open the last one right before bed and it is Twas the Night Before Christmas.

Another thing we always do is to sleep around the Christmas tree sometime during the holiday season. We did it a little differently this year and slept out several times the week after Christmas. The boys loved their new sleeping bags from Grandma and Grandpa Ireland.

This tradition is done at Thanksgiving or Christmas and preferably both. Pudding Pie, I am sure this doesn't taste nearly as wonderful to other people but it is the memory for me.

Another thing we always do is play with these nativity puppets that I made when Zack was small.

Merry Christmas

2010-12-31T11:43:00.000-08:00

We really had such a wonderful Christmas Season. It was nice when Zack and Jamon were finally out of school and we could relax a bit and enjoy our time together.

Jamon, Austin and Zack Christmas morning with their star wars packs from Grandma and Papa Abbott.
Zack and Jamon both got legos from Santa, Austin got 2 "star wars guys", the King and a blue Chick Hicks from the movie Cars. Kate got a pretend hair and make up set (she LOVED it).

Kate loves smelling her new Strawberry Shortcake and Lemon Meringue. She also enjoys brushing their hair and having everyone else smell them.

The Monday after Christmas we went to Silver Dollar city in Branson MO. We had a really great time, we were well prepared with several layers and plenty of hand warmers.

Grandpa and Grandma Abbott

2010-12-21T18:38:00.000-08:00

We had the perfect early Christmas present this year because my mom and dad came for a visit. My mom was able to stay for almost two weeks and my dad came for a weekend. It was great to have my mom here for Jamon's birthday. We didn't want to let them go. When I told Kate they were leaving she would say, "No, my Grandma (or Grandpa)".

Austin and Grandma played many games of Go Fish. Austin was very specific on how it should be played and my mom was good at following his rules and making him happy.

Austin really wanted my mom to jump on the trampoline with him, and she did! She was actually jumping with him. I don't even remember her jumping with me on our tramp when I was younger. Oh the things you do for your grandchildren!

The kids put on a play and Kate enjoyed dressing up as a monkey and watching the show with me. Of course grandma was part of the play.

All of my kids get to shave with Papa but Kate was insistent that she could do it herself.

Kate loved to get ready with Grandma in the morning and would come down to Papa to put powder on his face and lippy stuff on his lips.

Austin getting cuddles in with Papa before he leaves.

I am the luckiest girl in the world to have the parents that I have. They have always set the best example for me.

My kids loved to snuggle up with grandma and watch movies. Our cat Olive also loved having grandma visit.

Jamon's Birthday

2010-12-21T17:00:00.001-08:00

It's hard to believe Jamon is 7... but then on the other hand he seems much older than that. Jamon is such a sweet little boy and is definitely a peace maker in our home. He is very aware of others feelings and tries to make them happy. I am always very proud of the choices he makes. We sure are blessed to have him!

I love how when any of my boys have a birthday is seems that is all of their birthday. They are all so excited for the presents!

Jamon was so happy to get a new binder to put all of his Pokemon and football cards in.

Jamon was thrilled to get a big box of crayons from Grandma and Grandpa Abbott. Jamon loves to draw and often tells me he would like to be an illustrator.

A new star wars Yoda to add to their collection.

When my mom came she brought some of her cake decorating supplies. I had a fun time decorating Jamon's birthday cake. Zack and Jamon were so impressed when they saw it. Zack said, "Mom, you are really good... you could work at WalMart decorating cakes!" Luckily they both chimed in and said that they would not want me to work at WalMart because then I wouldn't be home.

We had a lot of fun decorating (and eating) Gingerbread cookies... and we had a lot to decorate.

Kate looks so cute in the dress I wore when I was her age. She loves to get dressed up. When I pulled this from the closet she gasped and then quickly started undressing so she could try it on.

Thanksgiving

2010-12-21T15:09:00.000-08:00

We had a wonderful Thanksgiving with Jeff's family in South Dakota. We lucked out and were able to see four of Jeff's siblings and their families there as well. Our kids were so happy to be with their cousins.

Of course our kids were thrilled that there were some animals around.
It was SO cold while we were there so we spent most of our time inside.

Several of the cousins have birthdays around the same time so we had a birthday celebration. Jamon was so surprised and excited since it wasn't quite his birthday but he was still able to open presents.

Even though it was freezing outside there was still a couple trips made to go out pheasant hunting. There were a lot of pheasants around the farm so they had a lot of success.

Kate with her cousins Isaac and Rebecca

I think this was pretty much the only four wheeler ride Jeff and Zack had together because it was just too cold.

Aunt Angela

2010-11-14T08:23:00.000-08:00

I was so happy that my sister Angela was able to come for a visit! It had been almost 9 years since she has been able to come and see where I live. This is part of the price I pay for living far away from family! Luckily Angela and my other sister Megan live in the same town as my parents so I get to see them whenever I am able to go visit.

We were lucky that she brought her baby Elsie along. The kids all loved Elsie and Jamon even wished we could keep her!

Angela was a great sport and granted Austin's many requests to jump on the trampoline, and to play soccer and football.

We knew we had to take her to the Wilderness Safari. Angela and I went in this cage with 3 somewhat baby monkeys, they were jumping all over our backs and running everywhere. This cute Capuchin monkey stole Angela's earring as soon as we got in the cage and then settled in her arms for a long time zipping her coat up and down.

Our family with the baby Tiger

Jamon petting a Liger

Austin and Zack loved to pick up this baby goat.

It's always fun to pet the Kangaroos, they are so soft!

Kate feeding some bread to the Kangaroo.

This chicken was so funny running after Austin to get some bread.

Cute baby Elsie.

Of course a trip to the safari would not be complete if you didn't have an emu stare you in the face.

I was so grateful for Angela taking the time to come, we all had such a great time with her.

Halloween

2010-11-14T07:23:00.001-08:00

This year for Halloween Zack was spider-man, Jamon was a Ninja, Austin was a cowboy and Kate was a pumpkin fairy.

On Saturday evening we headed to the Trunk or Treat for our church. Kate was pretty unsure what she thought... until she realized what we were doing.

People kept asking Austin if he was Indiana Jones, he didn't really like that and thought it was pretty clear he was a cowboy.

This year we decided that we really didn't need to buy costumes because we had enough in our dress-ups to choose from or they could always be a soccer player (I did buy Kate's but waited until 2 days before Halloween when it was majorly on sale!) The only costume that really fit Zack well was a spider-man one. He refused to wear it to school because he said the other kids would tease him but he said he would wear it to the ward trunk or treat because he knew that one of his best friends Walker wouldn't tease him. Both Walker and Zack were in the same boat with a spider-man and Buzz Lightyear costume they say they would have been teased to no end at school but that they could be comfortable together. I am thankful when my kids have good friends.

After the Trunk or Treat the kids kept with tradition and dumped all their goodies on the floor to trade with each other and pick out a few favorites to eat. I always find it interesting that Zack is a major candy monster but gives away half of his candy to his brothers.

Since Halloween fell on a Sunday this year we didn't go out trick or treating but did pass out candy. Zack wasn't sure how much he would like to only do the trunk or treat but afterward said it was the best Halloween ever. The kids all LOVED to sit on the porch, pass out candy and see what kids were wearing.

Random October Events

2010-11-14T06:05:00.000-08:00

I love to watch my kids play in their various sports and to see how they grow in talent and confidence. At the end of October Soccer and Football came to and end, it is pretty busy when Zack, Jamon and Austin are all doing a sport. Jamon and Austin both did Soccer and they would each have one practice a week and two games (the games and practices were all at different locations). Zack didn't want to do Soccer this year so we signed him up for flag football, Zack's team really needed a coach so Jeff volunteered, both Jeff and Zack loved it! Zack had one game and one practice (sometimes two) a week. Zack also did Cub Scouts. So with all the sports, every night of the week was tied up with one or two things, except for Sunday. Saturday we would always have 3 games. It was SO fun and tiring for everyone. With Zack and Jamon needing to be to school by 7:30 it would make for some tired kids.

Zack often played the position of center on offense. His team did very well and it was fun to see Zack have such fun playing.

(Jamon is maroon #2)

Jamon really increased in talent this year and was more aware of what he was doing, he did really well on defense and it was fun to watch him play.

(Austin is yellow #2)
Jeff and I have been looking forward to the time Austin would start sports for years! Austin was so excited for soccer to start, but at the first practice we were a little worried how things would go because he was so nervous and I had to be on the field with him the whole time. Austin was one of the youngest on his team and definitely one of the smallest on any team. It took several games but Austin finally realized that just because a lot of the other kids were 5 years old and bigger than he was didn't mean they were better than him. It was a blast to watch this little guy play and do so well. On several occasions the coach would just yell, "do what Austins' doing!"

Austin working on his back flip.

I have often found myself worrying about Austin because Zack and Jamon are such good friends and are always playing together and Austin is the odd man out. Jamon and Austin play good together but do not often get the chance because Zack is with Jamon.
It has been so wonderful since school has started for Zack and Jamon because I have been able to see the special friendship between Kate and Austin develop. They are so sweet together and he loves her and she adores him. He does not want me to put her down for her naps and when I finally get her into bed she calls for Austin to come say goodnight and sing her a song (which 100% of the time is Take me out to the Ball Game).

I had to capture a familiar picture of Kate. She loves to get her hair done and has to do it while sitting on my counter. She will admire what it looks like when it is done and then will often go find a brother or her dad to show it off to.

I know... a lot of Kate but she is just too cute!!!

I often think I am taking a lot of pictures of my kids but when I look back through them I am thinking that I am not taking enough!

Disney World

2010-10-31T13:28:00.000-07:00

There are many things that I completely adore about my husband and one of those things is that he loves to have fun! He is always wondering what the plan is for a fun weekend or coming up with a plan of his own... this is one of those times. Last Spring Jeff got a call from Hilton offering a stay at one of their fantastic condos in Orlando for a great price (of course if we listen to one of their presentations). Jeff accepted one of these offers a few years ago when we went to Disney World. And just like a few years ago, Jeff could not turn down the offer for a good time. Jeff also let one of our good friends, the Pabsts know about the deal and we decided to do the trip together.

The hard part was waiting all Summer to tell our kids!!! Finally at the end of August we let the kids know about the upcoming vacation. We all got together at the Pabst house for Family Home Evening and dinner. Jeff planned out a lesson about friendship and then a scavenger hunt to lead them to the answer. It was so FUN!

We left on the vacation on September 26th and returned home on October 3rd. We spent 5 days at Disney World and 1 day at the beach. We never wanted any of the days to end, it was so much fun. Our friends the Pabsts also have 4 kids and the ages of their kids match up almost perfectly with our kids, with the biggest gap in age being 6 months. So everyone had a buddy to ride with. Jeff pretty much had our itinerary for every day to know what day to do what park, and what lines to be in at what time. We hardly waited in any lines.

At the airport ready to go and waiting for the Pabsts to get there.

On the plane with Kate, we were all giddy with excitement.

To get our large crew around for a week we rented a 15 passenger van and I am so glad we did. It was so fun to always be together.

Hollywood Studios on day #2

Zack and Jamon at Hollywood Studios. We did end up getting rained out on this day, but we were glad it happened on the day we were at Hollywood because this park has the least amount of things for the kids.

And even better we were able to get back to the condo for dinner, popcorn and a movie. YES... we shared a condo with the Pabsts too! There were two large master suites and the living room. We felt like we had plenty of room. It was also very nice to have a full kitchen.

Day #3 at Epcot. Epcot was better than we even thought it would be!

Kate and her buddy Sawyer did awesome hanging out together while the big kids were on the rides.

Jamon and his best bud Ryder on Test Track at Epcot. This ride is so fun and we ended up doing it several times. The kids were all so brave and pretty much rode every ride they were tall enough to ride. Even Austin and his friend Coleman loved Big Thunder Mountain Railroad and Splash Mountain.

The dads with their boys on Mission Space at Epcot.

Kate

Getting ready to leave Epcot after playing in some water, it was a fun day.

Finally heading down to the pool at our Hotel, we were quite the sight!

The pool! It was a perfect kids pool because it was large and shallow with a slide going in and surrounded by several hot tubs.

Kate always loves the water.

The group at Animal Kingdom day #4

Jeff and Zack on Expedition Everest.

The group rode on the rapids several times while I hung out with the two little ones and Jamon.

Day #5 at Magic Kingdom with the group.

Sad it is our last day, but grateful for all the fun we have had.

Austin and Colmen loved this Roller Coaster in Toon Town.

After 5 full days at Disney World we headed to the beach. Kate wasn't too sure what she thought of it at first.

We had such a fun time at the beach. Our boys (especially Zack has been asking for years to go to the beach). We played in the waves, buried almost everyone in the sand, and collected sea shells.

Jamon and Austin

Jamon and Zack

Sawyer, Austin, and Coleman

Sawyer and Kate

Kate loved running into the waves to Jeff.

Great Picture!!!

Our hotel room was right on the beach, so after dinner and putting Kate and Austin to bed, Jeff headed out to the beach to search for hermit crabs with Zack, Jamon, and the Pabst boys. I had such joy sitting on the balcony watching the dark beach as all those boys ran around with head lights on and squealing with delight as they spotted crabs and tried to pick then up.

It was a perfect vacation and hard to head back home to reality! I am grateful that my husband is such a hard worker but that he also knows how to have FUN!

Jump!!!

2010-09-05T16:24:00.000-07:00

Austin is really quite remarkable--he puts his mind to something and is pretty determined to get it right. So, last month I posted a video of Austin doing a front flip and since then he has taken his acrobatics to a new level. Jeff asked me a few days ago if I had seen Austin do a sideways flip (kind of like a cartwheel with no hands). I was so surprised to see him do this new invention. Austin has no fear, which makes me pretty nervous; but that is also what makes him so much fun. We hope you enjoy this video of our amazing little 4 year old.

Ponca Arkansas

2010-08-22T14:28:00.001-07:00

Yesterday we drove to Ponca Arkansas to take a look at some cabins that we are thinking about renting for the Ireland Family Reunion next summer. It is pretty tricky trying to find a place big enough to house all of the Irelands! It looks like it will be good, but it would be great if it was a little bigger :)

The boys enjoying the view from the deck.

Zack thought the cabin was great... mainly because he caught 2 lizards outside and saw 3 dead bats. Here is he showing Kate the lizard.

Here is Austin, Kate and Zack enjoying the swing at one of the smaller cabins. We really really hope that the weather for next summers family reunion is not as hot as this summer, it really has been so hot.

Close by the cabin is Steele Creek, we knew we couldn't head home without letting the kids have a swim. By no surprise Austin was the first in the water, he was actually swimming around, way to go Austin!

I am never knowing exactly how to feel with Austin's daring nature. He really makes me so nervous but I am also so proud of his determination and fearlessness. He would jump off this rock over and over again. It is a little slippery so we were happy to come away with no accidents.

Here he is doing a spin.

Zack and Jamon looking for Crawdads. And yes, they found some.

Kate's Birthday

2010-08-22T12:40:00.001-07:00

I can hardly believe my little Kate is two! Honestly I was really wishing that I could keep her one for little longer. Kate is pure joy for our family, and makes all of us so happy. I'm sure she will be just as irresistible as a two year old, but I just don't like that they have to grow up so fast.

Some of the things we love about Kate:
Zack- "I love Kate because she is cute and because of the way she talks"
Jamon- "I love that she is little and cute and that her name rhymes with cake"
Austin- "I love Kate because I love her so much, she likes me and I like her"
I also love Kate because she is little and cute and because of the way she talks, I love that she calls me "mama" and that she loves to be with me. I love the way she runs and gets so excited to see Jeff when he gets home. I love that she dances when she hears music and that she loves to put on jewelry. I love that Kate comes to me and asks for a "pony mama" (which is for a ponytail in her hair). I love that she is fairly mild (and I hope she stays this way). I love how she just picks up new words all of the time; the other day when Austin was doing something she didn't like she went up to him and said, "no, no, BOY!" I love when we play Hide and Seek as a family and I get to hide with Kate because she will just snuggle in with me and stay so quiet until we are found.
Kate- We are so thankful you were sent to be part of our family. We are so lucky!

This picture is right before I put her to bed the night before her Birthday. I had to have one last picture of my one year old!

Good Morning Kate... My sweet 2 year old. Kate decided to sleep in and I could hardly wait for her to get up. As soon as she made a peep Austin and I ran upstairs to get her.

Checking out a wasp that Austin is pointing to.

Lately she often is refusing to sit in her high chair. I am surprised by how well she can do at the table for being so small.

Dad is finally home and we can have cake and open presents. The boys were so excited for the "birthday party" to start. Zack tried to show Kate how to blow out the candles but she could not blow quite strong enough so Zack blew them out.

Then Zack grabbed a fork and got a big piece for Kate to take a bite.

It is lucky Kate doesn't care much to open presents because she didn't really get to open any of them. It was funny how excited the boys were about HER presents. I would tell them to be patient and let her try, but she would not be fast enough so they would take over and then tell her what it was and put it on her or put it in her arms to hold.

Kate was quietly taking it all in, I could tell she was pleased by her presents and how attentive her brothers were to her.

Kate admiring her new baby doll. I had admired this baby doll for some time but was not willing to pay 35+ dollars for it, but then I happened to come upon it about 7 months ago for $11 dollars...I was thrilled!

Zack and Jamon with their little princess Kate

After opening presents we headed to the county fair. My kids still love the fair because of the animals. They enjoy the small petting zoo, the rabbits, and going in to see the cows and sheep. Zack thinks it is pretty impressive to see some of the smaller kids around his age showing sheep and 4-H steers, it is fun for Jeff to explain to the kids what is going on and how the kids may be feeling since Jeff showed 4-H steers from the time he was 9-18 years old. I will be sad when they take more interest in the overpriced rides and food.

The first spot we always go to is the petting zoo, it is really small but my boys love to hold the baby chicks. It would be funny seeing most of the other kids being nervous to grab the chicks but all my boys were in heaven. Austin would quickly grab them and see how many he could hold at a time... 3 was his lucky number.

Kate was very pleased to pet the chicks. She insisted on wearing the new birthday tiara and backpack to the fair.

Jamon cuddling a baby chick.

The Wild Animal Wilderness Safari also had a spot set up at the fair, so we knew we couldn't miss it. Zack and Jamon jumped at the opportunity to hold this Red Tailed Boa. Even Austin wanted to pet the snakes head, they haven't inherited their dads fear of snakes yet... Jeff totally kept his distance.

I was amazed at how comfortable they were, especially Zack, at one point the snake started to wrap around Zack's neck and he was not phased at all, he just softly grabbed its head and brought it back around.

This cute lion cub was wondering around and all my kids were able to pet it.

They loved this cute lemur monkey, it was so small. Some of the other baby monkeys had pacifiers in their mouths and Kate would point and say, "my binkie", she had her binkie taken away months ago but still have fond memories.

It was a fun Birthday and I can easily say that we all enjoyed it!

First Day of School

2010-08-19T18:44:00.001-07:00

Today was the first day of school and always seems to be a day of mixed emotions for me. I always feel sad that the fun of summer is over and being able to not be so strict on a schedule. I felt so sad sending Zack and Jamon away to school and definitely missed them. But... I do enjoy the extra time that I get to have with Austin and Kate. Austin really does need some of this special one on one time with me, and so do I.

A few days ago we went to Orientation where the boys were able to find out who their teacher is and see who is in their class. Austin wanted to bring his backpack too. We got into Zack's class and turned our head for just a moment and (not to our surprise) we turn around and Austin has found a pen and the student sign in sheet, he drew a few great pictures and plenty of the letter A.

Zack is in 3rd grade now! He felt good about his class and teacher, even though he did not get any of his close friends in his class. I think he is going to have a great year.

Jamon is in 1st grade. We were really pleased with the teacher Jamon got, she seems very nice. Jamon also ended up not having any of his buddies in his class but he did get a few girls that are in his church class. We are not worried in the slightest about Jamon making new friends.

This picture is actually from this morning, right before racing off to school. I know that the 7:30 start time will be tricky for us. I generally exercise in the morning before the kids go to school, this is going to be tricky now for me to wake up exercise, and be all ready by the time the kids get up. I know Jamon will be able to handle it because he is an early riser, but Zack is very much like his dad and cannot funtion well unless he has had a LONG nights sleep. I never like the feeling of waking Zack up and rushing him off to school.

The morning went well, both boys were up by 6:30 and we made it to school on time! Jeff took Zack to class and I took Jamon. Zack went right into class and was happy to be there. I had a feeling walking up to the school with Jamon that this may be hard for him (and me). As soon as we stepped into the classroom he started to get emotional, I told him I would stay for awhile so he didn't need to worry. He asked me if I would tell his teacher that he was feeling nervous. Luckily Jeff showed up and had me leave with Austin and Kate. I know that I would not do well leaving my sad boy. Later in the day the teacher told me that he was all better after about 20 minutes. I hope he does better tomorrow, I don't like that he is feeling nervous.

Last Week of Summer Vacation

2010-08-19T12:07:00.000-07:00

For the week before school started we tried to get out and do as much as we could. We spent a lot of time with friends and in water if possible.

Zack and his friend Luke enjoying the splash park

It totally cracked me up that these two ran around with goggles on, they are good buds and have such a fun time together.

This is about the extent of what Kate was willing to do at the Splash Park

Of course a perfect day would not be complete if Kate was not able to jump on the trampoline. The shorts Kate is wearing used to be mine when I was little, I love them.

One evening it finally cooled off a bit so Austin could get some baseball practice in.

My boys were so happy that we found this Praying Mantis when we got to the pool. They of course put it in the bushes after the picture so it wouldn't get hurt.

We are so grateful that we live in a subdivision that has a pool!!! We have spent a lot of time there this Summer. I think it is mostly because this summer has been so hot! The miserable kind of hot that you really cannot be outside unless you are in water. We usually will head to the pool around 9:30 a.m. and by then it is already close to 90 degrees. At 9:39 there is usually no one else at the pool. By the time it gets to be 2 pm and it is 100+ degrees out with high humidity the pool is hopping!

Kate and her buddy Sawyer floating around together.

Austin and Jamon with their best buds Coleman and Ryder. They had a great time, we were at the pool for a long time and they stayed busy and happy.

After a long time of swimming they were all ready for McDonalds.

Austin was ready for the pool, he stayed like this for awhile before we actually left.

I love my sweet baby Kate! It is always so fun to hold a baby in a swimming suit.

Jamon made a BIG step at the end of this summer when he learned how to do the "dead man float" and swim. Jamon is always very cautious around water and I love that, but he finally got the courage to put his head under water. We are so proud of him. He still practices his swimming at the shallow end of the pool and I am all for that.

Zack does any and everything in the water. I am always impressed by him since he has never had swimming lessons, he just got it.

Austin is pretty fearless and loves to try what Zack is doing. He loves his swimsuit/life jacket that helps keep him afloat.

Fun Things

2010-08-08T12:47:00.000-07:00

For the past several days sliding down the stairs in a sleeping bag has been a great source of joy for my boys. If you look closely you can see they got their little sister in on the action too!

Zack thought it was pretty great to dress Kate up in bubbles.

I gave up several months ago trying to stop Austin from doing flips on the trampoline. I just would get so nervous that he would get hurt. I was not too surprised when I looked out the window yesterday and saw that he was actually landing them on his feet! He is 4! This little guy never ceases to amaze me. He is thrilled that he will be able to do soccer and wrestling this fall, and we are excited to get to watch him.

Kate's Discovery

2010-08-08T12:25:00.000-07:00

One morning I took Kate out in the front to get a few pictures of her cute hair:) Do you see that I actually got two cute (very little) ponytails in her hair!!! While outside she happened to discover her shadow, it was precious and I am glad I had my camera with me to capture the moment.

The next two pictures are just to show Kate's cute hair, I really think she is adorable! I keep asking Jeff, "Don't you think Kate's hair looks so cute?" I don't think he is as enthusiastic as I am and he thinks it will look better once she has more hair. Probably so, but after 3 boys I am just so pleased to have a little girls hair to do! She is pretty good about letting me do it but after a few hours she will come up to me and say, "out mama". Kate is talking so much just in this past week, and she always calls me mama... I love it!

Kate loves to wear Silly Bandz, they are really popular with Zack and Jamon's age group.

Water Fun

2010-08-06T23:02:00.000-07:00

I started feeling pretty guilty that I was not taking my boys to the pool while the weather was so hot out. But I really wasn't feeling well so we opted for some water fun in our backyard. The boys ran through the sprinklers, jumped on the trampoline with the sprinkler and went down the slide into a little pool of water. They had a blast.

I am so thankful for these sweet boys!

They would really zip down the slide pretty quick. I think they went down in every position possible.

When Kate woke up from her nap she was able to help me water the flowers. She loved this! Jamon showed her how to drink the water out of the hose and then spit it on the flowers, she also thought this was pretty great.

Summer Sickness???

2010-08-05T11:27:00.000-07:00

It seems like we shouldn't get sick during the Summer because we are too busy trying to have as much fun as we can before school starts, but we have spent the past two weeks being sick... and it continues. We have all had colds and bad coughs, Jeff and I have bronchitis and Austin, Kate and Jamon have all had roseola. But despite the sickness we have tried to have fun, so even though we have been at home and not out enjoying our subdivisions pool or playing much with friends, my kids have been creative and we have had fun.

Jamon and Zack are always ready to put on a good show.

Kate is great entertainment for us even when she is not wearing a wig.

We have had many "set ups, forts, and boats" around our house the past 2 weeks and I really love how they will all play together.

It is music to my ears when Kate actually asks me if she can wear a bow! I really love how she loves to accessorize with bows, shoes, watches, bracelets and necklaces.

We did have a lucky few days they we had some friends come over. Zack and his buddy Walker did a great job on this "set up". I should have taken pictures of all the block set ups that have been created the past few weeks, they are very impressive.

Picking Corn

2010-07-10T20:35:00.000-07:00

Behind our church building there is a lot of land that our church owns. They had some plots that they let members use if they wanted to grow a garden and then the rest of it they planted sweet corn. The cost is just 10 cents per ear of corn, and that money goes towards buying the seed for next years planting.

Jeff instructing the kids how to choose good corn and how to take it off the stalk.

Zack thought it was pretty wonderful to pick the corn but he was very skeptical if it would taste as good as his Grandpa and Grandma Ireland's corn that they grow on their farm. We made it just the way Grandma does and they all LOVED it!

Kate and Austin

Austin checking the corn to see if it is ready.

Kate loved the corn.

Friends

2010-07-07T19:44:00.000-07:00

We are so thankful for the great friends we have here in Arkansas! There is a new little park in Bentonville, so we thought we would check it out. There was this neat rock to climb so of course my kids loved it!

Zack and Austin with some of their best buds.

My friend Kristy's son Conner pushing Kate on the swing. He is always so sweet with her.

Cute Boys!

Kate with her friends Sawyer and Luke. (We would really love if she would end up getting married to one of these boys some day, they are both precious!)

Fourth of July

2010-07-04T18:59:00.000-07:00

We had a great time celebrating the Fourth of July. This year we really took it easy and bought some fireworks and set them off in front of our house. It was the first year that none of the boys were nervous or afraid of the fireworks. There were fireworks going off in our neighborhood for a few nights so it seems there was plenty to see.

Zack and Kate getting ready to go to the pool

Poor Kate just got told that she wasn't going to jump on the trampoline. She LOVES to jump but it really scares me that she may fall off, our net was destroyed so we had to take it off and it is a big fall to the ground. The only way I let her jump is if Zack, Jeff or I am with her.

Okay, now she feels much better :)

Kate did not like the loud fireworks and would always cover her head. She liked the safety of being in the garage with mom holding her best.

We all jump at the opportunity to comfort and cuddle Kate.

The boys could hardly stand waiting for it to get dark to start setting off some fireworks so we did a few a bit early.

The boys were really having the time of their life. They all took turns setting off the fireworks and then they would run to a safe distance and cheer when they went up.

Jeff helping Austin to light the firework.

I know this isn't a great picture but I loved how the boys would all gather around together to watch the firework get lit, then as soon as it was they would scatter pretty quick!

I must admit that this was a highlight to my night, Kate was still nervous of the fireworks so we were in the garage and she kept a pretty good hold on my neck... I loved it!

We finished the night off with sparklers!

Temple Square

2010-06-28T18:42:00.000-07:00

Our kids had never been to Temple Square in Salt Lake City so we really wanted to try and squeeze that in before we left. It was a great experience for all of us. The boys really enjoyed seeing the Salt Lake City Temple.

As you can tell it was pretty hot and the sun was in our eyes!

Austin loved the water, I am actually surprised that he waked away dry from this.

The boys found a fun spot for a picture.

After walking around the temple Austin's legs were tired so Zack helped him out.

Jamon also wanted to help out, so took over strolling Kate.

The cute missionary from China that was showing us around asked the boys if they wanted to go up and see Jesus. She really made it sound like He would be there. My boys all gave me a look like, is she serious mom!? I quickly had to tell them what to expect. It was a great experience.

I was also able to run Zack, Jamon and Austin into the conference center. They all thought that was pretty impressive.... especially the huge bathrooms.

We were grateful to meet up with Jeff's brother Ryan for lunch. We walked past many pretty places and of course I remember to take the picture right in front of the Big O Tires, where our car was being serviced before we headed home.

The car ride home was not quite as sweet as the car ride to Utah. But, we were grateful we would be able to stop at Scott and Kristine's home (Jeff's brother) on our way back to Arkansas.

Ireland Family

2010-06-27T20:00:00.000-07:00

After being with the Abbott family we were able to get together with some of the Ireland side at Dave and Kayleen Nelson's home at Sundance (Jeff's Cousin). We were so happy to see the Nelson's, Hyer's, Doug and Shannon, Ryan and Tani, Beth and Todd, and their families. We were so glad that Sarah and Derek and Brittany were also able to make it.

Jamon couldn't get enough of his cousin Rebecca and thought she was so fun to hold.

Jeff and the kids on the hike at Dave and Kayleen's. Dave and Kayleen's home was heaven for our boys. There is a lot of outdoor activities to keep them busy.

Austin and Zack had already headed down the trail before we got this picture taken, it was very pretty!

Of course we couldn't miss this photo opportunity with Kate.

They even had a parachute! Our kids (and Jeff and I) were amazed at all the fun things Dave and Kayleen had to do.

It was so great to see Jeff's brother Ryan and his family. Here is Jamon, cousin Brady and Zack waiting in line for their turn to shoot the BB gun.

Jamon with his cousin Sarah's husband Derek. Derek was great with helping the kids shoot the gun.

Dave even set up the archery for us while we were there. It was so fun to learn and Dave was such a great teacher! It was a new experience for all of us. Zack thought it was pretty cool.

I actually found something that I can beat Jeff at!

Austin and his cousin Brynlee having fun driving around

Jeff getting in a snuggle with Rebecca before Beth's family left Doug and Shannon's house.

We really enjoyed seeing Doug and Shannon's new beautiful home. Their backyard was perfect for a game of baseball. (Jeff, Doug, Austin and Jacob got in on a game)

Mount Timpanogos Temple

2010-06-26T19:25:00.000-07:00

We were so happy that we were able to take our kids to the Mount Timpanogos Temple to see where we were married. It was fun to have our pictures taken and see how our family has grown over the past 1o years.

Abbott Family Reunion

2010-06-25T18:52:00.000-07:00

On June 19th we headed out on our Summer Vacation. We first were able to stop in Colorado and stay with Jeff's brother Scott. It was great timing because our niece Brittany had just returned home from her mission so we were able to see Jeff's parents also. Then we headed onto Heber City, Utah for a 5 day reunion with my family. It had been about 3 years since all of my family had been together, so it was wonderful!

We went on a fun little hike near the cabin we were staying at

It is so fun to be with cousins! Jamon is here with his cousins Ashton and Brady.

Jamon thought it was pretty neat that he had a matching shirt with his cousin Dryden.

Austin and his cousin Brady. Two of the cutest boys ever! We were never too short on action with these boys around. One evening my mom and I came up to the top floor of the cabin and almost everything that could be turned over was and a few CD's of my nieces broken. I asked Austin if he knew what had happened (I had a feeling he was involved), Austin told me that he and Brady had done it but that he did most of it and Brady did a little of it. I must say I love the honesty!

My sister Angela and I hugging on our sweet nephew Ashton on the last morning at the cabin.

My sisters Megan and Angela, my brother Brian, my Mom and I.
We met at a park for a family get together with my Mom's sisters and their families. It is always so hard to say goodbye to my family since I do not get to see them very often.

Missionary Moment

2010-06-08T18:22:00.000-07:00

Zack and Jamon had really sweet teachers this year and what was also wonderful was that they had a few friends from church in their classes too. For an end of the year gift all of these kids decided that they would like to give their teacher a Book of Mormon. So, all of the kids and their parents wrote their testimonies and highlighted some of their favorite verses. A few of the kids in our group were the only member in their class so they gave it to their teachers alone, but Zack and Jamon both had a few friends that they could share the experience with. Both Zack and Jamon's teacher were so appreciative of the gift and Jamon's teacher in particular was emotionally touched, she knew that this was something really special to the kids that they shared.

We had a family night at our house with the four other families that were involved so that the kids could practice what they wanted to say to their teacher. It was really fun to see how comfortable and excited they were to share this special gift.

Awards

2010-06-02T17:39:00.000-07:00

Jeff and I ended up having a great start to our anniversary because we were able to go see Jamon perform in his end of the year Kindergarten Celebration. He did such a good job singing all of the songs and I must say that I did shed just a few tears just because Kindergarten is such a wonderful year and difficult all the same, to all of the sudden be away from my little guy for 7 hours a day 5 days a week is tough to say the least. I was the same way with Zack when he was in Kindergarten and was emotional at his end of the year performance.

After the performance we went back to Jamon's classroom and all of the kids received one award for something they did well in during the year. Jamon received the award for excellence in Literacy and Math. Then there was one extra special award presented, the Citizenship Award. This award went to only one child and was chosen by the other students in the class. Jamon's Teacher was pretty emotional when she was presenting the award, and she said that several days ago she had asked the students to close their eyes and think of another child in their class that they would want to be friends with forever, that is always kind to them, someone that if they fell would pick them up or if they dropped something who would be the person to help them. Jamon was the one person to receive this award and Jeff and I couldn't have been prouder for him to get such an award because it is everything we think of Jamon, he is so sweet and desires to do what is right and be a good friend. Jamon was also surprised and pleased to get this award, he said to us after getting it, "I just didn't think it would be me."

Jamon with his sweet teacher

Needless to say after Jamon got the Citizenship Award I was a wreck and really wished that I had brought some tissues with me!

That same day Zack also received an award for being on the honor roll. We were so sad to miss him getting it! Zack's teacher had forgotten to tell us about this. But we did get to see him do a super cute performance about the state of Arkansas.

Zack and Jamon both did really great in school this year but now we are so happy to be out of school and celebrating Summer!!!

Memorial Day Weekend

2010-05-31T19:07:00.000-07:00

For Memorial Day Weekend we got together with three wonderful families and had some fun!

We started off with a BBQ at our house on Saturday evening.

On Monday we continued the fun with the same friends and headed to Lost Valley. It is almost 2 hours from our home. It is one of the most beautiful hikes I have been on. It has waterfalls, a cave, and is a pretty easy hike for kids. Our boys were in heaven!

Zack is not wasting anytime to do what he does best... catching things, he caught several crawdads.

Kate and her buddy Sawyer are pretty content hanging out in their backpacks and watching their siblings play in the water.

There were butterflies everywhere! They would just come up and land on us, especially the kids.

Kate with a butterfly on her hat

Jamon in front of Eden Falls, this hike is awesome!

After being at Lost Valley, we headed a few miles up the road to Steele Creek... another awesome place in Arkansas, along the Buffalo River. Of course Zack was able to find a crawdad there too.

Jamon throwing rocks and watching the other kids float down the river. Jamon tried to float down the river once, but ended up panicking and bailing off of the raft, he was under the water for a bit before someone grabbed him out so he decided he would rather watch this time.

Zack and his good friend Luke floating down the Buffalo River at Steele Creek

We are grateful our good friend Dan took this picture to document our wonderful weekend.

New Addition

2010-05-19T08:56:00.000-07:00

Anyone that knows my boys (especially Zack and Jamon) know that they love animals. They play with hard and stuffed animals and they also act like animals... a lot. Usually at least 2 or 3 times a months for the past several years the topic of getting a pet gets brought up, but Jeff and I have not wanted one at all. At the beginning of the school year we told Zack and Jamon that if they had a really good school year we would consider getting a cat (a cat because there is not very much clean up with it). Well they have both done really good in school this year so.... we got a cat!

She is really very sweet and we think we all made a good choice. Jamon came up with the name Olive because, "all of us love Olive". So we all went with it, except for Austin that likes to call her Nala.

They boys all love her, Zack especially takes very good care of her. And for some reason she really likes Jeff :)

Zack found this box in the garage and made a little home for the kitten. When we have been gone we can often come home to find her in the box. She will eventually be an outside cat but they kids are loving to have her around especially since she is so small.

Flowers

2010-05-03T08:21:00.000-07:00

We started off May with getting our flowers planted and all the kids were a big help. Zack was great at all of it and did lots of weeding for me. Jamon was good at getting the flowers in the holes and covering them up and Austin was the best and digging in the dirt looking for worms.

Kate Loves to go outside to ride her tricycle, look at the neighbors dog through the fence and play with her brothers.

But Kate's absolute favorite thing to do is to "jumpy jumpy" on the trampoline.

Kate is always getting attention from her brothers. And they love when she pays them any attention, especially when she comes and sits on their lap to read books. Kate is starting to say so many words (We love it!)

Austin's Birthday

2010-04-30T19:12:00.000-07:00

We all had such fun celebrating Austins 4th birthday. Austin is so much fun and never ceases to amaze us with the things he does and says. He is so funny and so full of life a.k.a energy and we wouldn't want him any other way. He was so excited and grateful for everything he got on his birthday. Austin's excitement was infections while he was opening gifts, we were all just as excited as he was. After opening a present he would give a reaction like that was the gift he always wanted. We sure do love and adore our little guy!

We let Austin choose one present to open before his brothers left to school, he was thrilled to see that it was a Chick Hicks (from Cars) that changes color in water.

Instead of a big party with lots friends we opted for a lunch/play date with a close buddy. Austin chose to go to McDonald's. He was SO pleased to see he got another car to add to his collection, he definitely stopped traffic with his enthusiastic response.

Zack and Jamon were very excited to see what Austin got and would ask him if he was going to share, he would always respond yes. But he doesn't let his cars too far out of his sight.

Austin received a lot of welcomed help opening this present and they have all enjoyed playing with it.

Thanks to Grandma and Grandpa Abbott our boys are all outfitted in their coon skin hats. I do love having three boys close in age that like to play together.

Austin getting a good shot off with his new toy gun from Grandma and Papa Abbott. We love the one eye expression that Austin does, he does it whenever he is pointing to anything.

April Happenings

2010-04-20T15:23:00.000-07:00

For some odd reason I always seem to forget how old I am, and coming up to my birthday I was pretty sure I was turning 29. But a few months before Jeff's birthday, I was cutting his hair and he said, "Can you believe you're going to be 30 this year?" And I said, "I am?" He had me totally convinced I would be 30. I told him that I couldn't believe I hadn't realized this and he said, "Well, I am 3 years older than you and I am turning 33." So I thought for a moment, and then said that I was born in 1981 so I would be 29. Then Jeff said, "So that means I will only be 32, I have thought the whole past year that I was already 32!" We had a good laugh and needless to say the picture below is me on my birthday turning 29!

I had a great birthday, Jeff gave me one of the best presents he could have by taking a half day off of work, so we did lunch and a little shopping. After the boys got home from school we dropped Kate off at a friends house and headed to the movies. It was a great day!

We had a few milestones for Kate this month, the first one is getting her hair up into a very small ponytail. :)

The second is that we finally switched her out of her infant carrier into a forward facing car seat. She is 20 months but pretty small so I kept her in the carrier as long as I could.

This is Kate in her "cowgirl" outfit that the boys enjoy seeing her in.

Jamon with his award that he won at school for being a terrific kid. He is doing such a great job this year.

Easter

2010-04-03T14:41:00.000-07:00

We have made a tradition of having our Easter baskets and egg hunt on Saturday morning so that we can reserve Sunday for concentrating on what Easter is all about. It was an extra special weekend to have conference too.

Zack got these neat BLOCO animals in his basket and right away started creating.

Austin is a huge fan of the movie Cars and loved this little backpack he received. He fills it with all the cars he has and takes it with him everywhere.

Jamon with a mouth full of Jelly Beans and some eggs he collected.

They all did a great job with dying eggs.

Kate is wearing the dress she got in her basket. The boys love when I dress her extra cute. Jamon has asked me a few times to have Kate wear a certain dress when I pick him up from school and to make sure to bring her out of the car when I run up to get them.

We spend a lot of our time in the backyard and are enjoying the warmer days. But also hoping that it doesn't warm up too much too fast.

We did not have a lot of time before church for pictures, so this is about as good as we got before we rushed out the door so we wouldn't be late.

Riding Bikes

2010-04-02T14:07:00.000-07:00

At 3 years old Austin finally decided he wanted to ride his bike without training wheels. (I say finally because Jeff tried to get him to do it this past Summer but Austin was too nervous to try, but he had the skill to)

Zack and Jamon came running in from outside and told me Austin was riding a two wheeler, they would help him get started and he would do the rest. He had riding his bike down in one day and a few days later he could even start it by himself. He was fearless and was not phased by falling. When he did fall he would jump right up and be so excited about how far he had gone.

As the weather has warmed up and Austin is wearing shorts he has taken a few falls and he has learned that pants can be much nicer on the knees.

Austin continues to ride his bike daily, he LOVES it! He likes to try new things like riding with one hand or riding on the grass.

Zack's Baptism

2010-03-06T18:27:00.000-08:00

It was really a perfect day! We are so proud of Zack's choice to be baptized. The spirit was strong as we watched Zack enter the water to be baptized and realize what an important step he was taking.

What a nice birthday present for Jeff to be able to baptize and confirm Zack

Zack was able to be baptized with one of his best buddies Luke

Zack's Grandpa Abbott flew in the night before he was baptized. Grandpa Abbott gave the talk on baptism. Jeff and I sang the primary song, I'm Trying to be Like Jesus, with the other couple that had their son baptized with Zack.

Wild Animal Wilderness Safari

2010-03-06T08:44:00.000-08:00

After Zack's baptism we asked Jeff what he wanted to do for his birthday and he thought it would be fun to take my parents to one of our favorite places, The Wild Animal Wilderness Safari. My parents have been there before and loved it. The Safari is about 20 minutes from our house and we don't actually go very often but our kids absolutely love it.

There are two parts of the safari, the first is a drive through area where you stay in your car but get to see all kinds or deer, buffalo, camels, zebra, rhino, alligator, birds, lions, tigers, bears, monkeys, wolfs, cougars... the list goes on!

The second area you are able to walk around and pet many different animals like kangaroos, deer and different farm animals. There are peacocks everywhere. They also have a place for monkeys, reptiles, exotic birds and any baby animals.

We had a new experience this time of being able to pet a baby porcupine.

This was Kate's first experience being able to pet a baby black bear. My boys have all been able to hold a bear as well as a lion cub, monkeys, and BIG snakes.

The kids all enjoyed holding this baby goat.

Grandpa Abbott and Jamon

Kate and mom petting the kangaroo, they are so soft!

Austin with a Kangaroo

I was kind of chasing down this deer so that Kate could pet it

Grandpa and Kate getting a close up look at a Zebra

These Emus are very interesting and can be quite intimidating. They come right up to the window and press their beak up against it. It can be a little much for Austin and Kate.

This was our first time being at the safari when they had so many camels, they all came right up to our window and the kids even got a quick pet of them, very cool.

Happy Birthday Zack

2010-03-03T18:10:00.000-08:00

Can it possibly be that our Zackery is 8 today?! We love Zack so much and are so thankful for the wonderful 8 year old he is. Zack is so full of fun, he loves to be with others and share his joy for some of his favorite things, which includes animals, reading, nature, writing and much more!

Zack requested an Dairy Queen Oreo Bizzard cake for his birthday... he thinks just like his mother.

Zack was very happy with all the fun gifts that friends and family gave him, he was especially impressed with this coon skin cap from Grandma and Grandpa Abbott. He asked right away if I could print this picture off so he could share it with his friends at school the next day.

It was such fun that Grandma Abbott flew in the night of Zack's birthday to share this special time with him.

Zack is a really good and fun big brother!

Zack had about run his previous bike into the ground, he was very surprised when dad came in with his new bike!

Ward Party

2010-02-13T17:08:00.000-08:00

The theme for our ward party was coming out of the dark ages of winter, and we were supposed to dress in the Renaissance time period.

Jeff was asked to perform as a Jester for the party, with no surprise to me he won first place out of four acts. People were amazed with how he could juggle, ride the unicycle and walk on his hands... a man of many talents!

We looked around for a Jester costume for Jeff but did not have much luck, so I decided to make one for him. It had been a very busy week so I started the project the day of the party! It turned out great and fit him perfectly.

I wore a dress that used to be my moms and Kate wore a dress that used to be mine.

Austin was a Musketeer

Sledding

2010-01-30T16:54:00.000-08:00

We have been lucky the past few months to go sledding quite a bit. Usually Arkansas does not get this much snow! We have had a lot of fun.

Austin was about out just in the short drive to the sledding hill

Jeff Kate and Zack getting ready to go. Kate enjoyed it until the end when snow started getting in her face.

Jamon and Austin spent most of their time taking small runs together at the bottom of the hill.

Here's what it feels like to be on Scott's Slicer sled!

Kisses for Kate

2010-01-21T16:20:00.000-08:00

I think she knows she is cute and that we all love her!

Kate loves coming to Zack so he can read her stories, Zack also loves this special treatment

As soon as Kate hears the garage go up when Jeff gets home, she starts saying, "daddy, daddy" and she runs to greet him. Jeff loves the attention he gets from her.

Now that Kate knows how to give kisses, she is constantly asked to give them, which she does willingly. Jamon is taking advantage.

Kate and Austin

Kate loves to take a bath, which is a bit of a scary thing for us. As soon as the boys get out of the tub she will hop in if we don't catch her. So we have to make sure the door is closed while the tub drains. She is of course very pleased in this picture!

Christmas

2009-12-31T15:00:00.000-08:00

It was a perfectly wonderful Christmas for us! We loved so much being with family in South Dakota.

We kept with tradition and slept around the Christmas tree before we left for South Dakota

The kids love that there seems to always be some animal waiting to get petted.

Kate and I went outside the day after we got there. It was beautiful!

Kate and I were pretty fascinated with how the snow froze.

We got a lot of crazy weather while we were in South Dakota with snow and strong winds. The power went out a few times, but that made it all the more fun and memorable for us all.

Austin was some sort of elf for the Nativity...very cute

All the cousins doing the nativity on Christmas Eve. Zack was a Shepard and Jamon was Joseph.

All the kids with "Mrs. Clause" aka Aunt Barbie, after receiving their presents

Christmas morning. Jamon was very happy to see he got the imaginext spaceship and Austin was more than happy to see he got some candy and a few motorcycles.

Kate got her first doll!

Austin showing off his new Mater... of course he is enjoying a candy bar too!

Kate being held by one of her favorite people...Papa Ireland, while holding her new doll from Grandma and Grandpa.

We finally were able to wake Zack up! He loved his new Pokemon binder.

Jamon and Brynlee

Kate was very happy when she was being held by Uncle Brent, Uncle Curtis, Uncle Doug, or Grandpa.

Kate and Grandma

Going out to enjoy the snow.

Rachel, Austin and Rochelle getting a ride from Grandpa.

Sam, Zack and Austin hiking up the hill. We had a great time sledding!

Zack and Jamon Wrestling

2009-12-20T18:00:00.000-08:00

Yesterday was Zack and Jamon's first ever wrestling tournament. I was hopeful they would win one or two matches and have a positive experience. It turned out to be a good tournament for them, with Zack placing 1st and Jamon 2nd. Both of them wrestled well for their first time, and I think it was a good ice-breaker tournament for them. Zack weighed in at 51 lbs, but they ended up listing him at 50 lbs. Also, I had marked him as a 4 on a 1-4 scale of experience (4 being least experienced). It turned out that they only had two wrestlers in the 45 lbs weight class, so they combined them with a couple of the kids listed as level 4 from the 50 lbs division. The weight advantage for Zack helped him, because he was able to muscle his way out of a few tough spots. Jamon also did well and was definitely capable of winning his bracket. He won his first match 11-5, but towards the end he was in tears because of getting a little shaken up. He got the first takedown in his last match, but again, something got to him and he started crying. With his mind only on "I don't want to be out here", he started being less aggressive. He got taken down and put on his back. At the end of the 2nd period I called him over to the side and talked to him. He was pretty broken up and I didn't have the heart to make him finish. It was interesting seeing Zack and Jamon's personalities come out in their wrestling matches. When Zack and Jamon play at home, Zack tends to like the more physical, aggressive types of games--whereas, Jamon doesn't. Jamon usually distances himself from conflict or aggression. Jamon wasn't really getting hurt while he was wrestling, but when he had to struggle for position, or things got a bit uncomfortable, Jamon didn't like that. We'll see how the rest of the season goes, but I was glad they both had a taste of success.

Jamon's Birthday

2009-12-08T14:17:00.000-08:00

Time goes by too fast! But we know that Jamon was very ready to be 6 years old. He is such a wonderful little boy and makes us so happy. Jamon is always trying to do what is right and to make others happy.

Jamon and three of his closest friends, Nathan, Ryder and Melissa at Chuck E Cheese's to celebrate Jamon's Birthday

Jamon had badly outgrown his old bike and was very happy to get a new one.

Grandma and Grandpa Abbott sent some light sabers for the boys along with Jamon's presents.

Jamon is big time into Star Wars, and was thrilled to get some new "guys"

Kate instantly fell in love with this little doggy that moves that Jamon got from Grandma and Papa Abbott.

Ahhhh she finally gets to hold it and didn't want to let go.

Thanksgiving

2009-11-26T14:05:00.000-08:00

We were so happy that my brother Brian and his family decided to come to our house for Thanksgiving. It was a very busy time for their family as they were preparing to move to Tennessee. We had a lot of fun!

The wrestling begins, poor Andrew is at the bottom of the pile with Brian, Austin, Jamon and Ashton on top.

Brian and Zack playing paper, rock, scissors. They would say, "Ro sham bo, show me what you got!"

Zack and Brendon

Andrew and Jeff Wrestling

Brendon and Jamon doing some major meditating

Ashton, Zack, Brendon, Jamon, Austin, and Lexi...cousins are the best!

Jamon joining in on the entertainment

Ashton and Kate

Cute Kids!

2009-11-21T12:40:00.000-08:00

We are tempted to take a picture of Kate every Sunday because she always looks so cute. Her brothers love to see her all dressed up. She is still adored by all of us so much, well Austin is pretty indifferent towards her, but she gets plenty of attention from Zack and Jamon.

Kate thought that this was pretty fun, she has not been on a swing very much and felt comforted having Jamon with her.

We took advantage of some good weather and headed to the park. Zack looked right away for a good climbing tree.

Jamon LOVES to help me in the kitchen. I love having the company so it works out perfectly!

Austin it truly moving all day long, so it is different to find him crashed out anywhere; today it was the top of the couch.