The Tobler Family

Halle's 9th Birthday!

2010-04-19T10:57:00.000-07:00

Halle couldn't wait for her birthday this year. Somehow I got ahead of myself and wrote "Halle's 10th Birthday" on our calendar. I don't know what I was thinking but I am happy to say she is only nine. Early Saturday morning, she walked into my room and asked if she could open her presents. Everyone except Halle was asleep so I sent her to the office to look on the computer. We had set up an e-mail account for her which she discovered and it already had 17 messages from family wishing her a happy birthday! That was definitely a highlight of her day. Thank you everyone for the birthday wishes and nice things you said to her - she loved it.

She couldn't wait to open her presents.

I love how all of the kids get so excited when it's someone's birthday.

Halle and her styling sunglasses.

Kate and Jack are always willing to help open a present

This is Halle opening presents in the car for her birthday party. She isn't excited or anything!

Halle invited four friends to come and get their hair, nails and makeup done. This is their before picture.

Here is Halle's before picture.

She's hoping it turns out cute....

Here's her hair from the back. All of the girls kept saying, "I wish my mom could do my hair like this."

They all got their nails done.

Here is their after picture. Aren't they cute?

Instead of cake and ice cream, we took the girls to Jamba Juice. All of the workers sang Happy Birthday to Halle and decorated her cup with stickers. It doesn't take much to make a nine year old happy.

This is Halle with her good friend Brynli. It was a nice group of girls and they had a great time. That night Harmon and I took Halle and Lacey to Tepanyaki for their birthday dinner. Halle had such a nice day and definitely felt celebrated. We love you Halle!

I Think They Like Him...

2010-04-13T20:57:00.001-07:00

Once in a while I am able to catch a tender moment. These two little ones love their dad and he loves them so much. It seems our kids are growing up way too fast and the time that two can fit on dad's lap will soon be gone. . .

Jack is 5!

2010-04-12T18:04:00.001-07:00

As much as I tried to talk Jack in to not turning five, I couldn't convince him. However, he did promise me that he will stay five. I absolutely love this kid and his age. I wish he could stay this sweet, innocent, funny, loving little boy. I think I love him so much because he loves me so much. I wake up to him hugging and kissing me and get lots and lots of, "I love you Mom's" throughout the day just because. This year he had a couple of friends come with us to Chuck E. Cheese (still pronounced Chuck E. Jesus by both Jack and Kate).

Here's Jack with his buddy Josh. Josh and Jack go to preschool together and he lives a few doors down.

Jack and his buddy Austin. Austin also lives on our street. We are so lucky to have so many kids in our neighborhood.

With Chuck E. himself.

I guess this is Jack's cool look. I can't tell you how many times they rode this monster truck.

We are mean parents and made Jack wait until Harmon got home from work to open presents.

Jack takes his wishes seriously - I hope this one comes true - whatever it was!

Jack was so funny with his candles - he blew them out one by one! We were all cracking up. Don't look too closely at the cake or you will discover my lame spelling error. That is why I never do the birthday cakes - what was I thinking? Never again.

Toenails for Dessert

2010-03-17T19:00:00.000-07:00

So, we went to Uncle Doug and Aunt Carol's 50th Wedding Anniversary celebration today in Lindon. It was wonderful to see everyone and visit with them. They served all sorts of pies from Marie Callender's. Kate chose a slice of banana cream and Jack chose a slice of raspberry. (The first slice landed on the floor, but that's another story). Anyway, Jack asked me what kind of pie Kate had. I told him it was banana cream. I asked him if he would like to try a bite of it. He looked at it and thought a minute and said, "I would if it didn't have toenails on it!"

Cute Kate

2010-03-14T17:14:00.001-07:00

Kate is wearing one of my favorite little outfits she got from Christmas, although I am pretty sure she would look cute in a potato sack. I need to look at this picture often because she is entering the terrible threes and I am losing my patience. The other day she said to me, "That's the problem, Mom. You're not the boss." Can you picture that coming out of this sweet little girl?

California for the Holidays

2010-03-06T19:48:00.001-08:00

We had such a great time in California for the holidays. We hadn't told anyone we were coming and it was fun to surprise my family. Ashley and Todd were in town already with their kids and Sunny and Steve also spent the holiday in California. It was so fun to all be together. Everyone was there except Sam and Lindsay and their kids. They were excused though since Lindsay had just had Ruby.

Harmon and Jack relaxing at the beach house.

Kate's ready for the nice weather with her flip flops on.

Everyone enjoying the view of the beach.

Harmon tried to keep up on work while he was gone. I don't know how you could concentrate on work with that view right in front of you. The Leany's home is so beautiful and relaxing.

Lacey, Jessica and Bailey had so much fun together.

Lacey and Jess.

Lacey and Bailey have really missed each other since Bailey moved last year.

Everyone went out to lunch at Ruby's Diner in Laguna for Jessica's birthday. We were lucky enough to be seated by ourselves on the roof (so was the rest of the restaurant).

Bailey, Lacey and Jessica.

We had a celebrity sighting while we were at the beach by the Montage. Can you tell who it is?

Jack and Kate.

Kate getting her feet wet.

I don't think they stayed dry very long.

Enjoying the beach...

Kids are always so fascinated with birds. Kate is no different.

We promised the kids we would take them to Disneyland. We decided that the middle of the week would be the best time to go. I guess we should have consulted the weather. The weather had been gorgeous the whole time we were there. However, Wednesday, it drizzled the WHOLE day (except for the first couple of hours we were at Disneyland). I also have to add that it was gorgeous the rest of the week as well. It was definitely a bummer. Once you've paid to get in there is no turning back. So here was our day at Disneyland. This is Harmon and Jack with their driver's license from Autopia.

Lacey and Halle waiting for Autopia. Halle was a little nervous and excited because she got to drive her own car.

Harmon and Jack.

Lacey already found something she would like.

The threesome.

Bailey, Lacey and Jess in front of Sleepy Beauty's Castle. It is so pretty at Christmas.

Sage and Halle. I don't know where Sage comes from.

Waiting for Honey I Shrunk the Audience.

Sweet shades. Kate was a little scared of the movie and didn't want to keep her glasses on.

Looking our best.

More glasses.

Kate's excited to go on Dumbo.

Jack loved controlling Dumbo.

By this point we were quite wet and so tired.

I exist every now and then.

So cute.

Me and my favorite boy.

Kate is at the edible stage. I love that cute little face.

Jack has had enough. We still had a pretty good time, in spite of the weather.

On Saturday, we took the kids to the Great Park in Irvine to ride the "hot air balloon." This is Kate as we waited for our turn.

The cousins waiting.

This is the balloon we rode up in.

Halle has done this before this past summer. She is a pro.

Harmon and Kate. It makes me nervous just looking at this picture.

Lacey is also a seasoned balloon rider.

Ashley and Chase.

I think I look a little pale. I'm glad I did it but I don't need to do it again any time soon!

The fam.

Saturday night we met up at Capo Beach to have a bonfire to celebrate Toby's birthday. Jack loves to roast anything and kept saying he wanted another hot dog just so he could roast one.

Steve, Sunny and Grace.

Bailey and Lacey. It was 80 degrees this day. Boy, were we in for a shock since we were leaving for Utah the next day. Some things just aren't fair.

Sunny and Harm.

Happy Birthday Toby.

Sage and Halle are best cousins. They love being together.

Such cute girls. They had the best time with each other this trip.

Gracie and Kate.

Jack with a marshmallow mustache.

Kate is the biggest baby freak and couldn't get enough of the baby.

The kids started dancing and chanting around the fire!

Next thing you know they are worshipping it... Time to go. We loved our California Christmas.

Christmas 2009

2010-03-06T19:29:00.000-08:00

We had a wonderful Christmas. It was so nice to have Harmon's parents here with us. It turned out to be a very busy day...

Jack was so happy with his gifts. Now if there just wasn't any snow outside so he could ride this bad boy.

All Kate wanted was a baby stroller. She was in heaven when she got a stroller and her own grocery cart. She manages to push both of them all around the house. What was Santa thinking?

Kate had the dress ups on for the rest of the day.

Lacey loved the luggage Santa left for her. Little did she know, she would be using it sooner than later.

Halle was thrilled with her new scooter.

Halle is my little cook. She loves to help me in the kitchen. She got this cute apron and her first recipe book.

Dress ups with mittens and hat...

Kate loved her polka dot blanket. My kids are all about the soft.

Jack had caught me working on this blanket in December. I told him it was for a little boy that needed a soft blanket. He kept saying that he wanted a blanket like that for Christmas. He was so excited that he was that little boy.

I finally let Lacey read New Moon. I'm sure it will be a few more years until she can read the next one.

After we were done opening all of the presents, Harmon had an announcement to make. He told the kids we needed to clean up because we had a lot to do to get ready to go to California the next day. We had arranged to stay at our friend's home in Laguna through New Years. With having the Christmas Eve party at our house, I couldn't really think about it until Christmas Day. Somehow we managed to pull it off. We were packed and ready to go early the next day. It was so fun to surprise our kids with the trip. Merry Christmas!

Christmas Eve

2010-03-06T18:59:00.001-08:00

So, it was out turn to host the Tobler Family Christmas Eve Party. It only comes around every five years. We had a great time.

We were so lucky to be able to have Grandma and Papa T. in town this year.

Kate with her Aunt Polly. They love each other.

One thing you can count on at any Tobler get together is LOTS of good food. This year was no exception.

Shannon and Janey.

Kate and Hanna.

Trevor entertaining the kids at the kid's table.

Jack showing his muscles.

Halle and Uncle Rick. He is always so good to Halle.

Laurie and Garret. Garret was so relieved when he heard that Santa couldn't make the party this year. Santa is not his favorite.

Each year we have a talent portion of our party. Jack busted out his reindeer hat and recited and sang every Christmas thing he has learned in preschool (which is a lot). We finally had to give him the hook because he couldn't get enough of the attention. That kid is something else!

Halle played a couple of songs for us.

There's something to be said about being one of the youngest cousins - here's Trevor playing with Jack.

Christmas Eve wouldn't be complete without a little nativity. Trevor's "robe" was a classic this year.

The cousins always exchange gifts. Here Addie had just given Kate a set of Cabbage Patch twin premies. Kate's squeel as she opened her gift was classic. She couldn't be happier.

The eleven year olds. They are so lucky to have so many cousins the same age. They are great friends.

Matching jammies - Santa is amazing.

Janey and Kate loved that they were matching too.

The Tobler kids are tired and ready to go to bed - they can't wait until the morning. I think this year we told them they could get up at 7:00 a.m.

Jack crawled up in his bed and tucked himself in - Santa hat and all. I walked in to discover him like this. It made my night. I love that kid.

Bugsy Malone

2010-03-06T14:26:00.000-08:00

Lacey was her school play Bugsy Malone. She was Dandy Dan's girl, Louella. The drama teacher at their school is amazing. Lacey had such a great experience and would like to do more.

These were the main characters of the play.

I couldn't believe how they could incorporate all of these kids.

Lacey with her good friend Savannah.

Lacey loved getting into her costume. She couldn't get enough of the red heels and was incredible at walking and dancing in them. Definitely not my daughter.

Lacey and Dandy Dan and his gang.

Lacey had to get over her fear of touching boys.

Sitting on Dandy Dan's lap. I'm glad Lacey wasn't too comfortable with this.

Lacey with her friend Emily.

Halloween

2010-03-06T14:03:00.000-08:00

I was a slacker this year and put off figuring out Halloween costumes until the last week. I vowed I will never do that again. Fortunately, it all turned out well...

Lacey was a mime, Halle a witch, Jack was a monkey and Kate was a chicken.

Lacey was a die-hard trick-or-treater this year. Usually she stays out a very short time and comes home to pass out the candy.

This is as loving as you'll ever see my girls - so I must share.

Kate was a pretty excited little chicken to go trick-or-treating - although it doesn't show on her face.

They are just humoring me to let me to take another picture. They are ready to get some loot.

Halle was such a pretty witch.

Jack enjoyed getting into his character. He wouldn't wear his costume to preschool because Halle had made some comment about his "monkey butt." I was glad he did on Halloween though.

Kate was the cutest little chick!

She pretty much ate all of her candy that night.

Kate loved helping me pass out the candy.

Utah State Fair/Lindsey the Farm Girl

2010-03-06T13:44:00.000-08:00

So, Papa T. showed his cows again at the Utah State Fair in September. We took the kids to go to the fair and see Grandma and Papa T. While we were sitting there visiting, a girl and her kids walked by. The girl stopped me and said, "Are you Lindsey Dickson?" I said yes and recognized her as someone I grew up with (JoAnn Ramsey). She looked around and said, "Lindsey, are you a farm girl?"! So funny...

Harmon with Kate being a cheese ball.

Lacey sitting with Grandma T. and Uncle Doug. Uncle Doug is so good to always come up and support his brother.

Trevor was fortunate enough to come spend the day helping Papa T. (which means picking up after the cows). What a lovely job. We told Jack maybe someday he could be Papa T.'s helper.

Lacey and Kate. Kate wasn't scared at all.

Halle even got out of her comfort zone.

Lacey showing off her tail. It's amazing the tricks they have to show off their cows.

Jack calls Uncle Doug "Uncle Papa T."! You've gotta love it.

Kate having fun with the tail.

Harmon showing the kids how it's done.

Jack deserves a blue ribbon.

Kate with Grandma T.

Jack practicing to be Papa T.'s helper.

New School Year, New School

2010-03-06T13:34:00.000-08:00

Lacey and Halle started a new school year at a new school this year. They are now going to Early Light Academy. It's close to our house in Daybreak and we are all really excited/nervous about it. I am really happy for my kids to be wearing uniforms. No more drama about what to wear in the morning. They can wear navy or tan bottoms with a white, navy or light blue collared shirt. They no longer take the bus, so I will have to drive in carpool. Also, there is no school lunch so we will be packing lunch every day except on Wednesday which is pizza day. I am okay with that because their school lunch was so not healthy. Lacey and Halle managed to get the only two male teachers at the school. Lacey is in 6th grade (no I can't believe I have a child in 6th grade) and has Mr. Burns and Halle is in 3rd grade and has Mr. Goff. They are both looking forward to their new school and classes.

Don't they look nice in their uniforms?

The expression on their face is "Hurry up Mom. You are embarrassing us!" This picture also captures how beautiful the color of Lacey's hair is.

Jack's First Day of Preschool

2010-03-06T13:25:00.000-08:00

My girls have always done two years of preschool, but because Jack was so stubborn about potty training, he will only do one. That's okay though because I really wasn't ready to let him go. He was so excited to start school this year.

His teacher is Mrs. Casey and he just loves her.

Surf Camp

2010-03-06T08:43:00.001-08:00

Lacey was able to go to surf camp with Allison, Brooke and Courtney Leany and Morgan Cattani in Huntington. She had such a great time and made so much progress. It's great for them to do it at such a young age. They make it look so easy to get up.

They practiced getting up on their boards on the beach.

The girls got to be in the same group with one instructor.

They did it several times to get the feel of it.

That's Lacey's instructor behind her helping her catch the wave.

One.

Two.

Three.

She did it!

So much fun.

Morgan and Allison done for the day.

Lacey and Courtney carrying their boards back at the end of their lessons. Surfing definitely wore them out. Lacey can't wait to do it again.

Summer at the Beach

2010-03-06T07:59:00.000-08:00

Due to some scheduling complications, we went to California for three weeks this summer. Before we left, I was worried that it would be too long. The first week we stayed with the Leany's at their beach house in Laguna and the next two weeks were spent at my parents home in San Clemente. The girls had Grand Camp the last few days before we left. I was surprised because I wasn't even ready to leave when the three weeks were up. We had such a wonderful summer in California...

Halle and Lacey with the Leany girls - Allison, Brooke, and Courtney. They spent a lot of time in the water boogie boarding.

Miss Halle really discovered how much she loves to boogie board.

Jack spent most of his days playing in the sand. By the end of the trip, he was more comfortable with the water which made it harder for me to watch him.

When the girls weren't in the water, they spent time relaxing and acting like teenagers.

Kate was definitely our sand crab this year. They Leany girls weren't used to having little kids with them at the beach and would get frustrated when Jack or Kate would get sand on their towel. It was pretty funny.

Jack would play so hard and then end up crashing on a towel. He is really asleep here. His eyes are just too big so they don't shut all the way when he sleeps. It's pretty freaky.

I think Kate's favorite part of the beach was the treat bag.

Jack the poser.

Wish they all could be California girls...

Lots of smash ball.

Not many waves in the cove, but the girls managed to catch plenty of waves.

Halle and her good friend Parker Cattani. They always hit it off and have such a great time together.

Jack and Carson had fun hanging out. It was nice to have a buddy especially on the days spent at surf camp.

The cutest little sand crabs on the beach.

I think this was the only photo from the night of the 4th of July. This is Kate sitting on Tara's lap.

Kate and MacKenzie. Kenzie was so nice to play so much with Kate.

Jack with a skin board. He tried to use it but could barely lift the thing.

Kate got braver with the water with every day. She was very scary by the end of the trip.

Halle loved the skin board.

More sand crabs.

Halle got really good at boogie boarding especially the days we were at surf camp.

Nana joined us one day at surf camp.

Kate and MacKenzie. I love this picture. We felt so lucky to spend most of our summer in California. It was so relaxing and rejuvenating. My happy place is at the beach and as you can tell from our pictures, we spent a lot of time there. We can't wait for next summer.

Cousin Visit

2010-03-02T16:51:00.001-08:00

We were so lucky to have Ashley and her kids come and visit us at the end of June. My kids loving spending time with her kids and getting to know them better. It's so hard when the kids don't get to see each other very often.

The kids enjoying a popsicle on the deck. I swear some of the popsicle made it into their mouths....

Bonding time in front of the TV.

We actually went up the canyon to the Spruces and went camping for a couple of night. I guess whenever Ashley goes camping it rains and this time it was no exception. We took the kids to a movie one day to get some relief from the rain. We still had a great time - dance parties in the trailer and all...

Summer Piano Recital

2010-03-02T16:42:00.000-08:00

We had the girl's piano recital in June. It's so fun to see them perform and see the progress they have made. Lacey is getting to be so good. It's nice when you begin to enjoy listening to your kids practice. Halle started piano at the beginning of the school year and she is quite the natural.

All the students and Mrs. Lindsey Jones.

Memorial Day Weekend Visit to Idaho

2010-03-02T15:49:00.001-08:00

Harmon and I decided to pack up the kids for a road trip to Idaho to visit Grandma and Papa T. over Memorial Day weekend. We always have such a nice relaxing time when we go to Idaho.

We went and visited Grandma and Grandpa Tobler's graves. We helped clean and polish them. Of course, Grandma and Papa T. provided all the flowers from their garden.

The Tobler posterity lives on...

Papa T. busted out his summer bed and Jack was coveting it. Jack and Kate loved laying in it.

Jack kept saying that he wanted to sleep outside with Papa T. I didn't think he would go through with it but he ended up sleeping outside with him all weekend and loved it!

Papa T. took us out to the farm to see his cows.

Jack wishes he could be a farmer. He prays for Papa T.'s cows all the time.

Hanging out at the farm...

The kids enjoyed the ride in the back of Papa T.'s truck.

Miss Halle just hanging out. She likes to keep her distance from the cows.

Jack the farmer. We all wish we lived closer to Grandma and Papa T.

New York City - Day 4

2010-03-02T15:26:00.000-08:00

Sorry I left you hanging for 9+ months to hear about the last day of our wonderful trip to New York. We went to the Met and barely made a dent in all that there was to see. Way too much to take in in one visit. I would love to go back and spend some more time there.

Harmon and I savoring our last day in the city.

Harmon loved all the armor and weapons.

Naughty.

Doesn't resemble my piano at all...

Ashley and I just before we left to the airport. We had such a great time together. The problem with spending time together is that it makes the reality that we live so far about so much harder. Oh, how I wish we lived close to each other.

Harmon had called for a taxi to take him to the airport but because of some parade it never showed up. It took us forever to even get a cab on the corner (Todd, Ashley, Harmon and I were all trying). He finally got one and barely made his plane to Virginia. It was way too stressful for Harmon's patience. Luckily, it didn't ruin our trip. Our first visit to New York was so great. I hope it's not our last...

New York City - Day 3

2009-06-02T20:31:00.000-07:00

Saturday morning, we woke up to a little rain but not enough to keep Todd and Harmon from taking a run through Central Park. Todd was able to join us that day which was great. We took the subway down and then took the Staten Island Ferry so we could see the Statue of Liberty. I hope to spend some time on Ellis Island next time we go.

It was amazing to see something you've only heard about and seen pictures of your whole life.

After 14 years, we still like each other (most of the time). After the ferry, we walked around the financial district. We saw the Meryll Lynch Bull, Wall Street, and Ground Zero. Ground Zero was very sobering. Harmon wished he could see down in to all the construction that is going on on that site.

We stopped by Century 21 and did some shopping. It was a great place with lots of good stuff for great prices. We then made our way to Soho and had some funny experiences with people selling knock-off hand bags. We were escorted to a secret closet in one store with two-way radios to make sure no one was watching. I am so naive that once we were in the closet, I asked the guy, "Why are you being so secretive about this?" Ashley looked at me like I was clueless. I didn't find what I was looking for, so we took another guy up on his offer. Before you knew it, Ashley and I were in some guy's van looking at purses. When I asked if he had any that were just leather he said, "No. GET OUT!" We laughed all day at our adventures. I couldn't resist taking a picture of this sign that was on the window of a boutique. Classic.

We ate at a great place in West Village for dinner and had the best fried artichokes as an appetizer. We headed back for Ashley's, freshened up and decided to hit Serendipity for dessert. Once we got there, we were told it would be an hour wait. We decided to kill some time at Dylan's Candy Bar. I went downstairs and Ashley came up and told me that the guy from Survivor was there. Harmon and I are huge Survivor fans so I called Harmon and had him come down. Harmon didn't want to bug him but Jeff's friend saw us debating what to do. He asked if we wanted our picture taken with him. We told him we did but that we didn't want to bug him. He said that Jeff would love to and went and got him. He was very nice - shorter than I would have thought. He took a picture with us and talked to us for a couple of minutes. Harmon and I were so out of our element, we didn't put it together that he was in New York for the live finale the next day. Crazy.

Harmon and I shared Serendipity's famous Frozen Hot Chocolate which was all that it is cracked up to be. Definitely worth the wait - which only turned out to be 30 minutes and because of the wait we got to see Jeff Probst. Win win. Fun day.

New York City - Day 2

2009-06-02T19:59:00.000-07:00

We got up and grabbed something to eat at a local cafe. One thing that we learned in the city on a couple of different occasions is that they don't know what salsa is. I had ordered an omelet and asked them if I could get some salsa. The girl said, "Salsa? What's that?" I turned to the other girl and said, "Do you have salsa?" She said that they only have hot sauce and ketchup. The next morning when we were at breakfast, Harmon asked the waiter if he could get some salsa. The waiter said, "What's salsa?" Harmon said, "Never mind." Strange. Or maybe we are the strange ones... Anyway, the day before when we went to the Empire State Building, some people on the way down showed us these pictures that they had bought at the gift shop. Harmon loved them and really wanted some. We decided to walk back to the Empire State Building and pick some up. It wasn't so easy. After proving to the manager with our digital camera that we had been there the night before, he let Harmon go back up to the gift shop and buy them. We took a taxi back to Ashley's place, but this time as he pulled up, I thought to myself, "Wow. Ashley lives in a nice residential area." It's amazing how spending a day in the city changed my perspective. We decided to head toward Rockefeller Center and 5th Avenue. We got a little sidetracked by Central Park.

This place that is a tribute to John Lenon is right by Ashley's house. She says that every day someone comes and places flowers like this around it. Funny. I couldn't resist taking a picture.

We decided to rent some bikes (on Sunny's recommendation) and ride around Central Park. We loved it and would suggest it to anyone visiting. It was a great way to get a feel for the size of the park and see all that it has to offer.

Ashley with her mad photography skills was able to get some photos while riding her bike...

After our lovely ride through Central Park, we were starving and decided to make our way to Rockefller Center and grab something to eat. We stopped at a couple of places but nothing looked great. Harmon was starting to get grumpy (he gets that way when he is hungry), so we said the next place we came to we would eat at no matter what. That place happened to be Carnegie Deli. We were seated at a table and took a look at the menu, only to discover that a sandwich was $24 and you had to pay $4 if you wanted to split a sandwich! Harmon was committed though. We asked the server what she recommended and then asked her how the beef brisket sandwich was. She said, "Good. If you like beef." We couldn't help but laugh - we didn't really understand her comment. We decided that three of us would split the beef brisket and the rueben. A few minutes later we got our beef brisket sandwich, which consisted of two very small, thin pieces of bread and a whole cow! There was not one condiment on the sandwich. So, that's what she meant by "Good. If you like beef." The rueben was about the same. The three of us couldn't finish the sandwiches and I don't think I've ever laughed so hard over lunch. We did, however, finish off lunch with "the best cheesecake EVER!" We took the subway back to Ashley's - which was Harmon's first subway experience. He was pretty impressed.

Harmon and I took the train (all by ourselves and didn't get lost) to go to the Yankees game at their new stadium. We had a great time and really enjoyed it. Even though we are not Yankee fans, we were glad we went.

We had great seats. This was our view...

We took the subway back and stopped at Magnolia's Bakery by Ashley's house for some yummy dessert. It's a good thing you do so much walking so you don't feel guilty about eating. It was another great day.

New York City - Day 1

2009-06-02T19:05:00.000-07:00

Our plane landed at JFK at about 5:30 a.m. We arrived at Ashley's at about 7:00 a.m. Although Harmon and I were tired, the taxi ride woke us up - it was definitely an experience. We couldn't wait to see her cute little boys. When the taxi dropped us off in front of Ashley's building, I remember thinking, "Wow. Ashley lives in the middle of the city." We played with them for a bit until we felt like we were going to crash. Ashley was kind enough to take the boys for a run while we tried to get some sleep. A couple hours of sleep and a shower does wonders... This picture pretty much sums it up. I don't know how Ashley lives in the city with these three energetic boys. She must have more patience than me... They are so much fun and way too cute!
We decided to walk around and get a feel for Ashley's life. We cut through Central Park which was so cool. I think the Park is the thing that keeps Ashley sane. I have heard about Central Park all my life and seen pictures of it, but you can't do it justice until you experience it yourself. I loved it. I hope our next trip we will get to do more at the park. This is a picture of the New York City Temple and also where Todd and Ashley go to church. There was something that didn't feel just right about the temple being smack in the middle of the city. Ashley assured us that there is just as much peace when you sit in this temple as any other temple in the world. We went and had a burger at the Shake Shak and hit it at just the right time and missed the long line.On our way back to Ashley's, we decided to stop at the Museum of Natural History which is right by her house. That place is huge and very cool, but a lot to take in in a short amount of time - especially when we were starting to feel just how little sleep we actually got on the plane. We cut it short and went and checked into our hotel. We stayed close to Times Square since we were going to the play that night. We checked in and were able to sleep for a few hours so we could stay awake for Wicked. Harmon and I walked to the Empire State Building. A friend had told Harmon not to look up as we walked through the city because it was a dead give away that you were a tourist, but we just couldn't help it. Because of Harmon's construction background, it was especially difficult. I had been told to hit the Empire State Building at 5:00 p.m. to miss the crowds and it worked out just right. The view was unbelievable even though it was a little foggy and soooo windy. We were amazed at how tall the other buildings were that surrounded it but they dwarfed in comparison to the Empire State Building.
Harmon and I at the top. We had taken another picture on the other side of the building but my hair was going straight up because of the wind. I don't love heights in the first place and the wind didn't help anything...
The view was amazing. The city is unbelievable. It just keeps going and going...

We met Ashley at Times Square and had some pizza at a place called Famiglias. It was very tasty. Todd was able to meet us there and scarf down some pizza before heading to Wicked.

Ashley and I at Times Square. She was the best tour guide and is one of my best friends. We had such a great time together. I just wish we lived closer.

Harmon and I absolutely loved Wicked. Harmon said it was one of his favorite things we did on the trip. Next time I go to New York, I would like to do at least a couple of shows.

Ashley and Todd. Todd had been pulling all-nighters for work and had a hard time staying awake - we all felt bad for him. We had such a great first day in New York. Harmon and I stopped at a bakery on our way back to our hotel and grabbed some dessert. Despite our long day, we were on such a high that we weren't even ready for bed....good thing.

Start Spreading the News!

2009-05-21T07:03:00.000-07:00

For our 14th Anniversary, Harmon and I finally pulled the trigger and bought the piano I have always wanted (it hasn't been delivered because the room isn't ready for it yet). As we walked out of the store, one of the salesmen happened to start playing, "Start Spreading the News" - they were in on the secret. It was all I could do not to start laughing but Harmon didn't even notice. I pulled a little present out of my car and handed it to Harmon. He was a little put out because we had agreed that the piano was for our anniversary - and the rest of the holidays for the balance of our marriage... A couple of weeks ago, I had to let him in on a little of my secret because he was trying to ruin it. He thought that we were staying the night somewhere local on Saturday night to celebrate our anniversary. I told him that the present was a little clue about this weekend. I had wrapped this cute picture of Toby holding our Wicked tickets in front of his face.

Harmon unwrapped the gift and sat there and stared at this picture. It seemed like the longest minute of my life. I asked him if he had figured it out. He finally said, "We aren't going to New York are we?" I said, "Yes we are - TONIGHT! You have a couple of hours to pack." If you know Harmon, you know that he is not the most spontaneous guy. His reaction was, "Tonight? I can't go tonight." Once he realized that all of his conflicts were conflicts I had orchestrated, reality started settling in that we really were leaving to New York City that night. I think all of the stress and excitement I had been carrying around with me for months transferred to him. It was great. That night was so much fun watching him walk around shaking his head at the realization that he had been duped!

Kate Turns Two!

2009-05-10T15:51:00.001-07:00

Kate didn't quite understand that it was her birthday. She knew something was special but she couldn't quite figure it out. By the end of the day she was saying, "My Happy to You". Too cute.

She got this funny little look on her face as we sang to her.

She stood there and blew and blew. Someone finally had to help her.

It's my party and I'll cry if I want to. We had to wake her up to open her presents. Not a good idea but it didn't take her long to come around.

Nana and Papa gave her this cute little doll that giggles and a little puppy that barks. She opened that first and it was hard to pry her away from them to open the rest of her presents.

If you don't know this about me, I have a bathing suit fetish. I thought I was pretty good only buying her a few when I could have bought 20. Nana and Papa got her the sunglasses and she wears them everywhere. All in all, she had a great day and is such a cute 2 year old.

Halle's Baptism

2009-05-10T15:09:00.001-07:00

Halle has been counting down the days and minutes until her baptism for months. I haven't seen anyone so excited to be baptized. This truly is a miracle because at Lacey's baptism, three years ago, she let me know that she didn't ever want to be baptized. It was a wonderful day and we are so grateful for all of the family and friends that were able to share this special day with her.

Halle looked so pretty and just beamed in her beautiful white dress.

The family.

Proud parents.

Halle with her Dad. Harmon did a great job with the baptism and confirmation. There was such a beautiful spirit there.

Mom and Dad with Halle.

Nana and Papa were here from California.

Grandma and Papa T. drove down from Idaho.

Sunny, Alex and Grace.

Another shot of the family.

Harmon and Kate.

Happy Birthday to Lou!

2009-05-10T14:58:00.001-07:00

I always decorate the kitchen for each child's birthday. I should just leave them up during the birthday season...

Lacey was happy that her birthday was on a Saturday so she didn't have to wait for Harmon to come home from work to open her presents.

I have made Lacey wait to read Twilight. She got it for her birthday and was thrilled. I hope it doesn't keep her up at night - she's a chicken...

Her other favorite gift is that we let her have a blog. Check it and her fashion show out here . (I am impressed with myself - I've never done a link before. Hopefully it works.)

The day before Lacey's birthday, Harmon took her for her first official round of golf. They both had a great time.

I think Lacey was most excited to wear one of her new golf outfits. The girl golf apparel makes me want to take up golf...

Lacey concentrating on her swing.

Easter Sunday

2009-05-10T14:40:00.000-07:00

We have 9:00 church, so Easter morning is always interesting. We decided to do the baskets and hide eggs the night before so that we could enjoy it. I was so proud of myself for having the kids fed and ready early Sunday morning. We even had time to take a couple of pictures. I should beware of pride, because as we were getting in the car to leave, we realized that Jack had locked us out of the house. So much for being on time...

With four kids, it is almost impossible to get a decent picture of them at the same time. This is as good as we got Easter morning.

Here are the kids waiting for me to hide the eggs...

Addie was so great to help Kate find the eggs at the hunt with all of the cousins.

Weston helped Jack find lots of eggs.

Halle is happy that she is still young enough to hunt.

Halle's 8th Birthday!

2009-05-10T14:32:00.000-07:00

Halle was so excited to turn eight. She can't wait to be baptized. This was a non party year, so she decided to go to a movie and then out to dinner. We went and saw the Hannah Montana Movie. I thought I was in for some torture but the movie turned out to be really cute and I actually enjoyed it. When we got to the theater, there were police and news crews everywhere. It turned out that Miley Cyrus was at the theater. We were told that there was a chance that she would come into our show. She ended up going into the 3:30 showing and ours was the 4:15 showing. Bummer, but we still had a great time.

Halle in her new clothes and rollerblades.

Opening her presents...

Ski Weekend in Park City

2009-05-10T13:52:00.000-07:00

It worked out that while my parents were in town we got a condo at the Silver Star in Park City for the weekend. My parents hadn't been up with us before, so it was fun for them to see the project that Harmon has worked on for the last few years. We had such a great time swimming, skiing, eating and just hanging out. My mom was such a good sport and watched the little ones while we skied. My dad hasn't been skiing in over 20 years and gave it a try. We couldn't have ordered in better weather for skiing and had such a great day. My Uncle John met up with us and skied with us and then brought his girlfriend and went to dinner with us. We really had a perfect weekend.

Here's the family before we left skiing. Halle skis, but decided she would have more fun hanging out with Nana and swimming in the jacuzzi.

My Uncle John and I. It was great to be with him for the day. He is a fun uncle. He and Harmon would break off here and there and race down the slopes. He's a great skier. Lacey was surprised when he told her that it was wine not water in his camelback. Maybe I should try a little bit of that to help improve my skiing...

Harmon, Lacey and I.

It was all I could do to keep up with Lacey.

Me tearing up the slopes...

Lacey has become a dang good skier and loves it. She just bombs down the hill.

It was fun seeing my dad and John hanging out. We don't get together enough.

Dad and John. My kids all thought John was older - the couldn't get past his grey hair.

Nana and Papa Visit

2009-05-10T13:45:00.000-07:00

My parents came into town for a few days. My kids so look forward to their visits.

Papa is always good for a snuggle.

Jack and Papa.

Jack with Papa's boots on. He's got some big shoes to fill.

Happy 4th Birthday Jack!

2009-05-10T13:12:00.000-07:00

For months, I have been trying to talk Jack out of turning 4. He is at the greatest age. I would like to bottle him and stick him on a shelf. He brings such joy to our family and is most definitely my favorite little boy. He will come up and ask me, "Mom, can I turn four?" I'll sit and think about it. Then he will always say, "I promise I will still give you lots of hugs and kisses when I turn four." Then he offers me his little finger and says, "Pinky promise." How can I resist? I love, love, love that kid. Now if I can just get him to stay four...

We started the day off with Jack's choice of breakfast - Special French Toast. You can't sing and blow out candles too many times for a four year old.

Jack's best buddy, Chance, brought Jack a cool farm puzzle for his birthday.

I took Jack, Chance and Kate to Chuck E. Cheese (Jack pronounces it Chucky Jesus). They went on this monster truck about 20 times. The best part of the day is that they didn't know what the tickets were for. They were so thrilled just to get them and stick them in their pockets. I just didn't have the heart (or the desire to torture myself) by standing in line to redeem their tickets!

Jack at 4 pieces of pizza in honor of his 4th birthday. I swear that kid has a hollow leg!

That night we all went swimming at the rec center and came back for cake and ice cream. Jack loved his cake.

Lacey's Best Night Ever...

2009-02-04T17:06:00.000-08:00

Harmon took some clients to the Jazz game last week and one person couldn't go at the last minute. Lacey lucked out and was able to enjoy the company seats behind the Jazz bench. She had the greatest time and Harmon and so much fun with her. From Kyle Korver saying hello to her, to being featured on the big screen dancing, to being handed every possible thing for free (I am sure there aren't many kids that sit in those seats), she came home on cloud nine. The next morning I walked into her room to find her top ten reasons why January 23rd, 2009 was the best night of her life...

Lacey's Top 10

Lacey with the "best dad ever." (I hope she feels that way when she's 16!)

Lacey felt like a celebrity for the night.

Happy New Year!

2009-01-07T16:58:00.000-08:00

One of my resolutions for 2009 is to be a better blogger. I have been so far behind. The first step was to get caught up - which I am actually now caught up! So keep scrolling down. Here is to more blogging...

Merry Christmas!

2009-01-07T15:56:00.000-08:00

Kate was ready to party on Christmas Eve.
Jack was hoping Santa would be at the Christmas Eve Party.
Grandma T. with Kate and Jack.

I acually exist in one picture of Christmas.

Kate, Lacey and Lauren

Harmon and Lace

Mary and Joseph. It was an interesting depiction of the Nativity this year - Mary delivered the baby Jesus right in front of everyone. One minute she was pregnant - the next minute he is in her arms. Don't we wish it was that easy.

Kate was so happy with her pajamas that Santa dropped by. She was really fun this year and was excited and appropriately oohed and aahed over everything she opened.

Halle and Lacey on Christmas Eve just before crawling into bed. I don't know how much sleep they actually got.

Halle was so excited about the guitar Santa left for her.

Lacey loved her new golf clubs. Harmon is excited about the excuse he now has to take her to the driving range.

I think Kate's favorite gift was all the binkies she got in her stocking.

The gift I was the most excited about giving were the blankets I made for the girls without them knowing. They are so soft and they love them.

The girls sleep with them every night.

Kate is girl through and through - she puts on anyone's hats, gloves, socks, shoes - anything she can get her hands on. Jack is just barely figuring out how to dress himself...

Jack and Kate in their new church clothes. Jack was so excited when he got to church and discovered that his best friend had on the same shirt. He took his sweater off so fast so they could be twins. (I thought that was just a girl thing? - I guess not). I just wanted to eat Kate in this outfit that Nana gave her for Christmas.

Happy Halloween!

2009-01-07T11:43:00.000-08:00

I think the only reason Halloween is happy is that it is over. Although the kids look so cute all dressed up, at this stage of my life, Halloween is a lot of work. My kids would actually prefer passing out the candy to trick-or-treating. The only happy pictures I could get of Kate were when she had candy in her mouth.
Jack loved being a cowboy (for about 5 minutes).

Lacey the witch - she was born a poser.

Halle was a wicked queen and very proud of the pumpkin she carved.

Halle looked so great in her costume.

The wicked queen and the cute lady bug Kate.

Double-Fisted Binkies

2009-01-07T11:40:00.000-08:00

We went camping up Hobble Creek Canyon. Kate scored and found two binkies. There is such thing as too much of a good thing...

Crazy Hair Day Again

2009-01-07T11:34:00.000-08:00

Same do, another year, but this time with hair spray.

Lacey had to come up with something else because her hair is shorter this year.

The bus stop was quite a site.

Happy Birthday Harmon!

2009-01-07T11:02:00.000-08:00

I made this cake all by myself - aren't I creative and just the best wife ever?
I can't think of a better way to celebrate your birthday at our age. Part of the celebration is the fact that at our age we have been blessed with a great family. Carrot cake and fresh peach pie - it doesn't get much better than that for Harmon. We love you Harmon!

Back to School

2009-01-07T10:32:00.000-08:00

The summer went by way too quickly. We managed to pack in a lot of fun and a few trips but now it's time to get back into the swing of things. As always, my kids are excited to go back to school. I think we all thrive on routine.

Jack had to get in on the action. He should have been starting preschool but unfortunately (for me), he didn't get his bowels to cooperate.

I can't believe Lacey is in 5th grade.

Halle couldn't wait to start 2nd grade.

Lacey with some of her close friends - Chelsea, Savannah and Kennidee.

Halle with her friends Avery and Aidyn.

Halle has two teachers this year. This is Mrs. Soqui.

And this is Mrs. Johnsen.

Utah State Fair and Julie

2009-01-07T10:01:00.001-08:00

In August, we went to the Utah State Fair to see Papa T. He had entered some of his cattle. Jack loved seeing the cattle, especially one cow named Julie. Julie was about to have a calf. Now, every animal (toy) that he has is named Julie. He talks about Julie all the time and is very concerned that he still hasn't seen Julie's baby.
Harmon was the only one that enjoyed the smell of the barn. I guess because of his childhood memories, he always takes a big whiff around cattle.

Big Haven and Little Haven. They both really love cattle.

Papa T. was so proud of Jack because of all the grandkids that came to visit him, Jack was the only one that really liked it.

He couldn't get enough of Julie.

Go figure - Halle is terrified of every dog in the world, but she could handle petting Julie.

Mr. and Miss Mischeif

2009-01-07T09:47:00.000-08:00

So, Harmon and I returned home from a weekend away in Arizona. I went to help out with Creative Escape and Harmon joined me and golfed all weekend. I came back with a project that had a little bottle of crackle paint in it. Well, let's just say that the crackle paint even works on skin. Kate walked up the stairs having been crackle painted by Jack. Jack also managed to paint several walls, Lacey's white board and clock! I couldn't get very mad because I was the one that left it on the stairs to be put away. Jack is proud of his masterpiece.
His innocent accomplice.
The artist himself.

A few days later, I discovered that Jack had found a pair of scissors and chopped his and Kate's hair. I have put off blogging this this long because I am just now able to talk about it. After several months of Kate having a "comb-over," it is mostly grown out. Luckily, she is cute enough to pull it off...

Cascade - August 2008 (Better Late Than Never!)

2008-11-23T16:24:00.001-08:00

GO COUGS!

2008-09-14T09:53:00.000-07:00

On Saturday, we took the girls to the BYU/UCLA football game. Halle had been to a game a couple of years ago, but this was Lacey's first game. We had awesome seats right on the 50 yard line (thank you Okland Construction)! Harmon is a little psychotic so we had to leave at 10:30 a.m. for a 1:30 p.m. game. We made a day out of it by stopping at the bookstore to get us all some BYU gear, lunch at the Wilkenson Center and then the game. It was perfect weather and we ended up having a great day and a great win.

We tried to represent by all wearing blue...
Lacey got into the game.
We kind of wore Halle out before the game by walking from the stadium to the bookstore and back but in the end, she decided it was worth it.
This is the view from our seats before the game started (we were early - thanks Harm!). It was another sell out crowd.
Harmon and the girls.

Harmon and his game face - he enjoyed not being stressed by the game.
We had to explain to our girls that this wasn't a normal football game. Lacey said, "What do you mean?" I said, "It isn't normal that we keep scoring touchdown after touchdown without them ever scoring." It was fun though. Three down and nine to go before the "Quest" is complete. Go mighty Cougars!

Outer Banks June 2008 (long overdue)

2008-08-22T14:11:00.001-07:00

Aren't you going to stop me?

2008-07-25T06:31:00.001-07:00

Kate discovered our neighbor's water feature yesterday. She could have played in it all night if I would have let her.

At first, she just sat down in the little stream until she found out how cool the waterfall was.
She even tried to drink it...
This face is priceless - "Aren't you going to stop me?"

I'm afraid I am going to have to watch her like a hawk now that she knows what's across the street...

We Saw The Angel Fly!

2008-07-14T15:32:00.001-07:00

We were lucky enough to be able to see Angel Moroni placed on top of the Oquirrh Mountain Temple on Friday. The church doesn't publicize the event, but since Okland is building the temple, Harmon knew when it was happening. It was a long process, but totally worth it. My kids will always remember that they were there when the Angel Moroni flew for the first time. Very cool experience.

Here we are in front of the Angel Moroni laying on the trailer they drove him in on.
Angel Moroni up close. They allowed the artist that made this Angel Moroni go up in the lift to help place it. I guess he is quite afraid of heights but decided he really wanted to go up.
Here is the temple without the angel. They had just lifted the steeple on an hour or so before Angel Moroni. I was surprised at how early in the construction process they put the angel on - I would have thought it would be the finishing touch. I guess it's quite a process grounding the angel to protect it from lightning.
The kids as they begin to lift the angel up.
On his way up.
Everyone clapped and yelled once they got the angel in place. We can't wait until our temple is done.

Kate Turns One!

2008-07-06T17:46:00.000-07:00

I can't believe my baby is already 1. It feels like I had her just yesterday. We have loved every minute of her 1st year. She is such a good, happy little girl.

Kate showing off a new dress and her new teeth!
They just don't get any cuter...

Kate LOVES her Aunt Polly and her Aunt Polly LOVES her.
Kate is not quite walking yet but she loves to push around her walker.
For Kate's birthday, we got a bounce house for everyone. It was a hit!
Kate and the cousins in the bounce house.
Kate has her Dad wrapped around her little finger.
Mom helps Kate blow out the candles.
Kate liked eating the cake.
Kate thought the presents were good for climbing on. She wasn't too interested in the presents, so we had the cousins each take a turn opening a present.
Kate got a baby from her Aunt Amy. She couldn't figure out why the bottle didn't work.

Lacey's 10th Birthday!

2008-07-06T17:31:00.000-07:00

Lacey requested French Banana Cake for her birthday - her taste buds are obviously growing up too!
Nana and Papa gave Lacey her own digital camera. She couldn't be happier.
Lacey got this cute pink cruiser from Mom and Dad. She looks like PeeWee Herman riding around on it!
Lacey and her friends went and saw a movie and then went to Marble Slab for some ice cream. Her group of friends includes five cousins that are her same age. She is so lucky (just ask Halle).
Lacey with her friends in front of Marble Slab.
Lacey and her cousin Addie.

Halle's 7th Birthday!

2008-07-06T17:11:00.001-07:00

Halle wanted a pink cake with sprinkles this year.
For Halle's birthday party we took a bunch of girls swimming. Halle has such a nice group of friends and they all had a great time.
Halle and her friend Brynli take a break from swimming to get their picture taken.
Halle and Brynli.
Lacey got to bring her friend Kennidee.
Halle the birthday girl.

NO MORE CRAZY HAIR...But still hair!

2008-05-22T06:19:00.001-07:00

I know, you are so happy not to see Crazy Hair Day on my blog. I have been such a slacker. I want to catch up in chronological order, but that isn't going to happen for a while. Lacey got her hair chopped yesterday and I wanted to post her new look. She donated over 10 inches to Locks of Love for the second time. She looks so cute and sassy (not that she needs any more sass!).

Before
Before
After

Could the color of her hair be more beautiful?

Crazy Hair Day

2008-03-28T07:41:00.000-07:00

Today was "Crazy Hair Day" for school. My kids look forward to it all year.

Halle really is happy here. This is a crazy as Halle gets.Halle from the back.
Not so crazy from the front view . . .
Lacey is famous for this hairdo. She has done this every year and loves it because she gets so much attention. I got this idea several years ago from my friend Tara and have used it ever since - you put a water bottle in her pony tail. Doesn't she look great!

Happy Easter!

2008-03-24T06:02:00.000-07:00

We had a very nice Easter yesterday. I think I have decided that next year we will do all of our Easter festivities on Saturday and try to concentrate on the real meaning of Easter on Sunday. I've talked to a few families that do it that way and they say it is much better. Any thoughts?

We took a quick picture of the kids in their new Easter attire before we left for church.
Kate was content just to play with one of the eggs while the kids looked for eggs.
Jack was so happy to get a tie so he can dress like his dad for church.
What more could anyone want for Easter?

Little Miss Mischief caught in the act . . .

2008-03-19T09:13:00.000-07:00

I've been going through a lot of toilet paper lately. I wonder why? I guess it's better than her other favorite hobby - playing in the toilet!

Oh, yes! Now if I can just pull myself up...
Aren't you going to stop me?
Watch this ...
I can empty a whole roll in less than 10 seconds flat.
I'm sorry, Mom. I just couldn't resist.

Going Private

2008-03-17T11:41:00.000-07:00

I've been thinking about it for a while and I have decided to make the switch to a private blog. Please send me your e-mail address by Friday, March 21st if you would like to be able to access my blog (toblers@comcast.net). Thanks!

Playing Zebra

2008-03-08T06:20:00.000-08:00

Today is the last day of men's basketball for our stake/region - yeah! Harmon has been gone a lot due to his calling and men's basketball. As he was getting ready to leave for his last day of being a ref for the men's regional championship games, he was saying goodbye to Jack. Jack asked, "Are you going to play zebra?" What would we do without our zookeeper?

Jack's Fiesta

2008-03-05T06:04:00.000-08:00

Jack got into his birthday more and more as the day progressed. By the time we did presents and cake and ice cream he knew it was his special day.

He started the day with his favorite breakfast, pancakes. One was shaped as the number three and the other was a birthday cake - if you can't tell from the picture:).

For those of you that don't know, Jack is really into animals. He must have some special power to speak to the animals, because these three deer were in our front yard this morning visiting Jack on his birthday. They actually made national news because after they left our neighborhood, the followed three runners for 12 miles!

Jack chose to have a Go Diego Go cake. Two minutes after I brought the cake home, he ate a bunch of the frosting off of it (Swiper, no Swiping!).

Had I known, I would have had Jack open Papa's present last. Papa gave him a set of animals from Bass Pro Shop - deer, elk, pig, a hunter, etc., etc. Jack could care less about any other present after that. We were exclaiming over all the other presents and trying to get him excited about the "laptop computer" that Halle had just opened for him since he wouldn't. He just looked up and said appropriately, "Oh my goodness!" and went back to his animals. Thanks Papa!

Kate enjoyed the party - wrapping paper and all!

Happy 3rd Birthday Jack!

2008-03-04T07:05:00.000-08:00

Jack is so excited for his birthday - all he wants for his birthday is a cake with candles and to make a wish! All I want, is for him to break the Tobler mold and not experience the "terrible threes." I'm afraid he is already making the transition. He has been so funny this morning - every time one of us said, "Happy Birthday Jack" he started crowing like a rooster!

Our three year old Jack.
Jack on his 2nd Birthday.
Jack on his 1st Birthday.

Rub-a-dub-dub

2008-02-22T09:31:00.000-08:00

Here are a couple of pictures of our cute little Kate in the bath tub. She loves to play and splash as long as we will let her. I left her and the other kids home with Harmon while I went to California for a few days. I was worried about leaving her but Harmon did great with all of them (although, you'll have to ask Harmon about his fun incident with Kate while he was changing Jack's diaper). I actually think my leaving turned out to be a good thing. I think she had been waking up in the night, not because she was hungry, but because she wanted to be with me (she is truly a Momma's girl). So, because she wasn't getting me, she is now sleeping through the night! Go Harmon! She hasn't slept through the night since our trip to California in October and I was long overdue for a good night's sleep. Harmon was also able to bond with her more than ever because I wasn't there to compete for her attention. I definitely missed her and the others while I was gone.

Holy Snow!

2008-02-03T10:43:00.000-08:00

We woke up to more snow than we have ever seen. They even cancelled church - which never happens around here. It was actually kind of fun. The snow was over three feet deep in lots of places.

Here's Harmon trying to get to the shed to get the snowblower out.
It's a good thing we have an awesome snowblower. The snow was up to Harmon's knees.
Amazing.

Goodbye President Hinckley

2008-02-01T13:07:00.001-08:00

This morning my sister-in-law, Shannon, and I took the kids downtown to the viewing of President Hinckley. We had such a cool experience. The spirit in the room was tangible and it bore witness that President Hinckley was a prophet of God. I thought I might be emotional but I wasn't. It was no longer President Hinckley, just the body of an old man worn out by years and years of service to us and the Lord. After you exited the room, there were different arrangements of flowers from his family with notes on them. One of them that really touched me was from his grandchildren. It said, "Grandpa, we will always remember to Bee Grateful, Bee Smart, Bee Clean, Bee True, Bee Humble and Bee Prayerful." I know that it is an experience that Lacey and Halle will always remember. Afterwards, we walked over to the temple. Shannon's parents are in the temple presidency, so we went to say hi to them. Shannon's mom took all the kids into the temple to her office. President Hinckley's daugter and husband, President and Sister Walker, are the temple matron and president. She took us into Sister Walker's office and showed the kids some pictures. She also took them into the chapel. My kids felt so special being able to do that. It was a very memorable experience. Thank you Sister Rose.

The kids and I outside of the Conference Center. By the time we got

out the line was very, very long. We timed it just right.
All the cousins in front of the Conference Center. We get Lauren for the weekend because her parents left for Hawaii today (I'm sure they are going to miss all this snow).

The kids with Shannon's mom, Sister Rose.

Jack the Explorer

2008-01-31T06:50:00.001-08:00

Jack is addicted to Dora the Explorer and Go Diego Go. The other day I was in my bathroom getting ready and Jack was at the top of the stairs yelling for help. We now have a gate at the top of the stairs because of Kate and Jack hasn't figured out how to open it. So he was at the top of the stairs yelling, "Help! Help!" When that didn't send me running, he started saying, "Ayudanos! Ayudanos!"(Help in Spanish for those of you who aren't bilingual like Jack). The same day I asked Jack to count my fingers. I was impressed that he was able to count all ten fingers but then he proceeded to coun t them in Spanish! Who knew? At least he's learning something from his addiction.

Kate's New Look

2008-01-07T13:54:00.001-08:00

Kate's hair has gotten long enough to put it in a top knot. Here are a couple pictures of her new do.

Christmas Wrap Up

2008-01-07T12:55:00.000-08:00

Now that the holidays have past, I have a minute to catch up on our blog. Here is a Christmas wrap up . . .
Each year I vow I am going to simplify the holidays (it never works, but it is worth a try). After holding out for 12 years, we finally went fake, as in fake tree. It is one of the better things I have done and I know that it will simplify Christmas for years to come. Harmon was out of town so I purchased, set up and decorated the tree all in one night. Yeah!
We had the Tobler Family Christmas Eve party at the Hanks' house this year. When Santa walked in Jack's eyes were as big as saucers. I tried to capture the magic in his eyes but this picture doesn't do it justice. I think it was the best night of his life. He is still talking about "Santa Cwas" and wants it to be Christmas Eve every night.
Halle was still adding things to her list on Christmas Eve.
Lacey wasn't so sure about sitting on Santa's lap this year. Remember, Lacey, if you don't believe you don't receive!
Kate loved Santa and Santa LOVED Kate. He was amazed she like him so much.
Kate gave Santa's beard a good tug to see if he was the real Santa. Ouch! He definitely was the real deal.
Santa called up the kids one by one and had pajamas for each of them. Jack waited and waited . . . Once in a while Jack would say, "What about me Santa?" He was finally the last one to be called. He could have sat on his lap the whole night. Definitely a believer.

The girls were so excited on Christmas morning. Right before this picture, Lacey turned to Halle and said, "I know I don't usually do this - but I just want to hug you Halle!" Is this the magic of Christmas?
Halle got an American Girl Doll from Santa (her mom would NEVER buy her one of those).

Lacey got an iPod.
After getting some great toys from Santa, Jack didn't want to be bothered with opening presents. He would open up a new shirt and take the whole box and throw it and say, "a shirt", and go back to playing.
Kate slept through Christmas morning. Once she finally woke up, she was happy with all of the paper and bows.
Jack and his new red chair.

It was a great Christmas, one I won't forget. I'm pretty sure these are the days I will always look back on as the best years of my life.

Santa Clues

2007-12-12T20:18:00.000-08:00

The last couple of years we have adopted a tradition from Harmon's sisters called "Santa Clues." During the month of December, based on the kid's behavior they can get a Santa Clue. A Santa Clue can be anything from a new Christmas CD to a candy cane. We hide the present and then give them a clue to help them find it. My kids look forward to it and it is great leverage. This was today's Santa Clue. They were so excited to find a kit for a gingerbread house. We had a lot of fun decorating it together.

Good Morning!

2007-12-04T08:12:00.000-08:00

I haven't done a post in over a month but I thought I would be ungrateful not to share this cute face I woke up to this morning. After having sick kids for the past week, this was a blessing to wake up to. Kate just smiles her head off and puts my life into perspective. It's all worth it.

The Great Pumpkin's Sweet Revenge by Harmon

2007-11-02T07:37:00.000-07:00

So I had made several calls to the individuals that most likely placed this large pumpkin on our front step. I gave them until the end of the night to have it removed or they would feel my wrath. They chuckled and pretended like they didn't know what I was talking about.

Last night after we returned home from our family venture to the BYU Bookstore, the pumpkin was still there and I had had it! Thursday night is hockey night, so I drove down to the church and came screached into the parking lot, slammed on my brakes and let them all know that they have started war. Again they laughed and pretended not to know what I was talking about. So I squeeled out of the parking lot and went home to take the appropriate action.

I went downstairs, got by paintball gun, filled the hopper and headed out the door. Just as I opened the door, our Elder's Quorum President was about to knock on the door and was fearful of his life after seeing me with some kind of weapon in my hand. It turns out that the guys had done the same thing to him and he wanted to go get a bunch of pumpkins and blockade their doors. I thought that was way too much work and I had other plans. He looked a little concerned but I headed to the church which is just down the street from our house.

I walked through the backyard of the house next to the church, whose yard just so happened to be one of the "tricker's." I climbed up on the fence to find them all right there playing hockey. It took them a while to notice me and they started skating over to me. When they realized I had a gun in my hand they slowly started to skate backwards, at which time I began to fire the trigger, shooting as fast as my finger could pull the trigger. They were yelling and screaming at the top of their lungs. I landed several shots and then they were gone. It was the funniest site I have ever seen in my life! One of the other guys that plays with us and wasn't involved in the trick, stood there holding his arms high up in there yelling, "Don't shoot, don't shoot, I have no beef with you at all!" Eventually, they came back and cleaned up the pumpkin I had since cut apart and set up an entire blockade leading into their street. We all had a good laugh and needless to say, I don't think they will be playing any more tricks on me.

Trick or Treat?!

2007-11-01T09:16:00.001-07:00

Look what showed up on our doorstep the morning after Halloween! We have a bunch of pranksters in our neighborhood . . .

Happy Halloween!

2007-11-01T08:53:00.000-07:00

The marathon day of Halloween is over! Between decorating cookies, carving pumpkins and getting ready, I didn't stop running all day. It turned out to be a good Halloween . . .

Kate was the cutest Tink ever!
Skinny Harmon with Kate - doesn't he look great?
Halle was a "glamour witch" - she was very glamourous!
Lacey was a monster girl.
Peter Pan with his pumpkin.
Lacey with her friend Kennidee who was a dead rock star.
Peter Pan and Tinkerbell off to Neverland.
Halle and Kate.
I actually exist sometimes in pictures. Lacey shot this one of Harmon and I. Notice there are only a few leaves left on our tree - it's definitely fall around here.
This was a dress rehersal earlier on Halloween. Jack was playing dress up with the girls and came up with this costume on. I'm sure this makes Harmon proud!

One Last Smokey Swim

2007-11-01T08:28:00.000-07:00

Unfortunately, our trip to California overlapped the fires. It did make the trip a little weird, but fortunately we weren't that affected by them. Our hearts go out to all whose life was affected by the fires.

Lacey our poser.

Here is Halle in front of the red sun with Lacey behind her doing a cannonball.

Jack was not very into the swimming thing (which makes it much easier on me). He prefered sitting on the edge with his feet in the water. It must be the Idaho in him.

Nana and Kate were the lifeguards.
We were lucky enough to overlap with Sam and Lindsay's trip from North Carolina. Here are the girls swimming with Reed.
Nana and Jack.
Happy Max with Lindsay
Eskimo kisses from Papa.

Halle Got Her Ears Pierced

2007-11-01T08:21:00.000-07:00

Halle didn't suck her thumb for three weeks in order to get her ears pierced. We are so proud of her!

She is nervous and excited about getting them pierced. The girls that worked there were great and did it very quickly. Halle didn't even know they did it!
Here she is afterwards. Doesn't she look cute?

Zoomars

2007-11-01T07:55:00.000-07:00

Nana took us to Zoomars - a petting zoo in San Juan Capistrano. It was a very smoky day and we were looking for something to do to entertain the kids. This place had actually taken on several animals that were evacuees from the fires. The kids had a great time.

Lacey loved the bunnies and the bunnies loved her! A pet bunny is now at the top of her list for Christmas. (She will also have to get new parents from Santa).
Halle, on the other hand, would be just fine if she didn't have to be near a bunny again in her life.
Nana and Jack with the goats. Jack wasn't sure what he thought of the goats.
Lacey on the train.
Lacey's horse was named Pal. She wished she could ride without being led.
Jack on his horse, Snowflake.
Halle in front of the Llamas.
Kate enjoying a cat nap at the petting zoo.

Disneyland

2007-11-01T07:32:00.000-07:00

We went to Disneyland and California Adventure two different days (I spread them apart for my own sanity). The fall is a great time to go. No line was longer than 10 minutes. Most of the pictures are on my Mom's camera but here are some that I took. (Note to self: It's not worth it to bring your big, nice camera to Disneyland - stick with the point and shoot.)

Here we are entering Disneyland. Mickey Mouse was made out of all sorts of pumpkins. It was very cool. Disneyland is very cute at Halloween.
Nana was such a good sport and help at Disneyland. Here she is on the rockets with the kids.
Jack on his horse.
Cute Halle.
With finished off the night with Dumbo.

Lacey has such a fun personality. She made me come take this picture of her with her horse.
Halle and Lacey on Dumbo.

Jack trying to stay awake for the parade. Once he saw Mickey Mouse he woke right up and loved the parade. We had a great day but were exhausted. All the kids were asleep within 10 minutes of getting into the car.

Titleist

2007-11-01T07:17:00.000-07:00

Before we left for California, Harmon finally found Jack a little golf hat. He was so excited to be like Harmon. Harmon made him take it off before he went to bed and hung it on a hook. The next morning when I went to get him out of his bed the first thing he said was, "Titleist." I later told Harmon about it and he said, "That makes me so happy!" I'm afraid of my future . . .

Jack and Papa in the Swimming Cool

2007-10-23T22:10:00.000-07:00

The kids couldn't wait to get to Nana and Papa's house to go swimming. Jack calls it the "swimming cool." I thought this picture of Jack and Papa was so cute.

Noah's Ark Exhibit

2007-10-23T21:40:00.001-07:00

The kids and I flew in to Los Angeles on Wednesday, October 17th. I worried for weeks about flying by myself but the kids did so well. I was sent an angel from heaven by the name of Cheryl that noticed me in the airport and asked if I was flying by myself with my four kids. I told her I was. She told me that she was flying by herself and that she would help me with whatever I needed. Fortunately, there were no catastrophes but she helped me load and unload off the plane and even waited with us at the curb until my mom pulled up. There are still very good people in the world today. Anyway, from the airport my mom took us to the Noah's Ark Exhibit at the Skirball Cultural Center. It was a really cool place and the kids had a great time. Thanks Nana!

This part of the exhibit was made out of all sorts or recycled parts.
Halle was able to make the giraffe's head turn back and forth as she moved. Very cool.
Jack loved making his own storm. You pumped this pump and it would make rain. He could have done this all day.
Lacey on the camel outside the ark.
Halle on the other camel outside the ark.
Halle and Lacey got the animals on the ark two by two.
Kate and I outside the ark. I hope the ark was actually bigger than this but I think it was pretty true to size. It must have been very stinky. They even had all this fake poop and brooms and dustpans for the kids to clean up the poop!
Inside the ark, they had two puppets of every sort of animal. Kate wanted to eat them.
Lacey hates moose (because of an experience she had while camping this summer) that is why she is making this face.
Nana and Kate.

Jack prepared some food on the ark.
The kids had a great time with Nana.It was a very cool exhibit. Very well done.
At the end, the kids got to decorate their own ark.
Halle with her own ark.

Serious Bed Head

2007-10-09T07:34:00.001-07:00

When you have to use detangler spray on your son's hair, it must be time for a hair cut! This is what Jack's hair looks like every morning . . .

General Conference weekend is for . . . finishing some projects!

2007-10-09T07:21:00.000-07:00

In between sessions, I gently convinced (begged, bribed) Harmon to hang some stuff up in Kate's room. We finally put up the valence and I hung this cute picture I just got back of Kate in her blessing dress. I only have a couple of other pictures to hang before her room is officially complete - finally! For the record, Harmon and I also cleaned out our closet - which is a HUGE accomplishment! We need to stay at home on the weekends more often . . .

Harmon's got a new girlfriend!

2007-10-06T12:58:00.000-07:00

So, I went to Chad today and got a new do! Last haircut I got a "mom bob" which was not so cute. Today, I told Chad that he could do whatever he needed to do to make it better - here is the result. We'll see how I like it in a few days . . . P.S. Halle was the photographer here.

Princess Fiona

2007-10-03T13:50:00.001-07:00

Sometimes I call Kate "my little princess". Well, Jack (who only has watched the movies Cars and Shrek) heard me call her this the other day and now he calls Kate "Princess Fiona." Good thing she doesn't know what he is talking about or she would be in tears. Maybe it's the big eyes?! I guess I need to sit him down to a few other princess movies to expand his understanding of the word "princess"!

Jack's such a good brother...

2007-09-20T16:23:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, Kate was a little fussy so I asked Jack if he would come and "talk nicely to Kate." He climbed up on the bed and got this cute little look on his face and started whispering in her ear, "We'll go camping . . . we'll go boating . . . we'll go on the four-wheeler." He has definitely learned the golden rule - that's all he thinks about and that was his definition of talking nicely! We love our Jack. (This picture is just a representation and not from yesterday.)

Lacey Made Student Council!

2007-09-20T08:47:00.000-07:00

Lacey came home a couple of days ago and was so excited to tell me that she made the student council for her school. She had asked me a couple of days before if I thought she should try out for the student council. I said, "What have you got to lose?" She was a little nervous because she didn't know what it entailed but she went ahead and applied anyway. Harmon took her on a special date to Jamba Juice because we were proud of her for taking the chance. She has her first Student Council meeting this Friday after school and is looking forward to it. The thing she is most excited about is that she gets to go to BYU in October all day for a special leadership conference. GO LACEY!

Crazy Sunday Morning

2007-09-17T06:54:00.001-07:00

Sunday, as we were trying to get ready for 9:30 church, I couldn' help but snap a few pictures.

This is a classic Jack scowl (I actually love it!).
Halle teaching Jack to do a crazy face.I was taking a picture of Halle and Kate but Jack loves his picture taken and had to be front and center.

Building Cathedrals

2007-09-16T19:23:00.000-07:00

I was sent this story the other day and loved it . . .

It started to happen gradually. One day I was walking my son Jake to school. I was holding his hand and we were about to cross the street when the crossing guard said to him, "Who is that with you, young fella?" "Nobody," he shrugged. Nobody? The crossing guard and I laughed. My son is only 5, but as we crossed the street I thought, "Oh my goodness, nobody?"

I would walk into a room and no one would notice. I would say something to my family - like "Turn the TV down, please" - and nothing would happen. Nobody would get up, or even make a move for the remote. I would stand there for a minute, and then I would say again, a little louder, "Would someone turn the TV down?" Nothing.

Just the other night my husband and I were out at a party. We'd been there for about three hours and I was ready to leave. I noticed he was talking to a friend from work. So I walked over, and when there was a break in the conversation, I whispered, "I'm ready to go when you are." He just kept right on talking.

I'm invisible.

It all began to make sense, the blank stares, the lack of response, the way one of the kids will alk into the room while I'm on the phone and ask to be taken to the store. Inside I'm thinking, "Can't you see I'm on the phone?" Obviously not. No one can see if I'm on the phone, or cooking, or sweeping the floor, or even standing on my head in the corner, because no one can see me at all.

I'm invisible.

Some days I am only a pair of hands, nothing more: Can you fix this? Can you tie this? Can you open this? Some days I'm not a pair of hands; I'm not even a human being. I'm a clock to ask, "What time is it?" I'm a satellite guide to answer, "What number is the Disney Channel?" I'm a car to order, "Right around 5:30, please."

I was certain that these were the hands that once held books and the eyes that studied history and the mind that graduated summa cum laude but now they had disappeared into the peanut butter, never to be seen again.

She's going, she's going, she's gone!

One night, a group of us were having dinner, celebrating the return of a friend from England. Janice had just gotten back from a fabulous trip, and she was going on and on about the hotel she stayed in. I was sitting there, looking around at the others all put together so well. It was hard not to compare and feel sorry for myself as I looked down at my out-of-style dress; it was the only thing I could find that was clean. My unwashed hair was pulled up in a banana clip and I was afraid I could actually smell peanut butter in it. I was feeling pretty pathetic, when Janice turned to me with a beautifully wrapped package, and said, "I brought you this." It was a book on the great cathedrals of Europe. I wasn't exactly sure why she'd given it to me until I read her inscription: "To Charlotte, with admiration for the greatness of what you are building when no one sees."

In the days ahead I would read - no, devour - the book. And I would discover what would become for me, four life-changing truths, after which I could pattern my work: No one can say who built the great cathedrals - we have no record of their names. These builders gave their whole lives for a work they would never see finished. They made great sacrifices and expected no credit. The passion of their building was fueled by their faith that the eyes of God saw everything.

A legendary story in the book told of a rich man who came to visit the cathedral while it was being built, and he saw a workman carving a tiny bird on the inside of a beam. He was puzzled and asked the man, "Why are you spending so much time carving that bird into a beam that will be covered by the roof? No one will ever see it." And the workman replied, "Because God sees."

I closed the book, feeling the missing piece fall into place. It was almost as if I heard God whispering to me, "I see you, Charlotte. I see the sacrifices you make every day, even when no one around you does. No act of kindness you've done, no sequin you've sewn on, no cupcake you've baked, is too small for me to notice and smile over. You are building a great cathedral, but you can't see right now what it will become."

At times, my invisibility feels like an affliction. But it is not a disease that is erasing my life. It is the cure for the disease of my own self-centeredness. It is the antidote to my strong, stubborn
pride.

I keep the right perspective when I see myself as a great builder. As one of the people who show up at a job that they will never see finished, to work on something that their name will never be on. The writer of the book went so far as to say that no cathedrals could ever be built in our lifetime because there are so few people willing to sacrifice to that degree.

When I really think about it, I don't want my son to tell the friend he's bringing home from college for Thanksgiving, "My mom gets up at 4 in the morning and bakes homemade pies, and then she hand bastes a turkey for three hours and presses all the linens for the table." That would mean I'd built a shrine or a monument to myself. I just want him to want to come home. And then, if there is anything more to say to his friend, to add, "You're gonna love it there."

As mothers, we are building great cathedrals. We cannot be seen if we're doing it right. And one day, it is very possible that the world will marvel, not only at what we have built, but at the beauty that has been added to the world by the sacrifices of invisible women.

-Author Unknown

Harmon's a Pro!

2007-09-10T08:12:00.001-07:00

After Harmon picked me up from the airport yesterday, I asked him how he managed. His response was, "I'm a pro!". I have to say, he is a pro. The kids were alive, clean, fed and happy and the house was clean. It just doesn't get better than that! I am so grateful to have such a good, supportive husband. I don't know what I would do without him. He may not be a pro golfer - but he is a pro in my book. Thanks, Harm.

Creative Escape went really well. Kate did awesome, as was expected. She was definitely a celebrity there and got lots of attention. The ladies there called her "Scrap Worthy." She got her picture taken by many strangers. Shelby said that she could always find where I was because there was always a swarm around us. The scrapbook fanatics are definitely unique. We had a good time and are getting back into the swing of things.

I am off to Creative Escape...

2007-09-05T07:34:00.000-07:00

This afternoon I am leaving for Bazzill's annual event, Creative Escape, in Arizona. I have mixed feelings about leaving. It's crazy farming out my kids and leaving Harmon a schedule with everything. However, it is always fun once I get there. Harmon is very supportive of me and great with the kids while I am gone. Kate (The Bazzill Babe) is coming with me - hopefully she will do as well as he last show. I get back on Sunday afternoon - so no posts until then.

A Visit From Nana and Papa

2007-09-01T16:58:00.000-07:00

My parents flew in yesterday for the blessing of Sam and Charlie on Sunday. They dropped by this morning to see us. My kids are always so happy to spend time with them. We are lucky that they come to visit so often.

Papa and Jack - the tongue was the result of me asking Jack not to play with his tongue. My dad looks so good since his surgery. I'm so glad he is healthy.
Nana and Halle - kindred spirits.
Lacey couldn't miss out on a photo opp.

Such A Blessing . . .

2007-08-31T15:59:00.000-07:00

Every time I pick up Kate I am reminded how blessed we are to have her. She is such a happy, easy-going baby. I try to cherish every moment I have with her because from experience I know that they grow up way too fast.

Back to the Routine

2007-08-29T10:10:00.000-07:00

I've been looking forward to the girls starting school and getting back into a routine. Unfortunately, I was sick all last week and I am still trying to kick this dang cold. Needless to say, my house went to pot and I am still trying to recover. I am happy to say that our dinner group is back up and running (we took August off), so my family is eating again. All you need to appreciate the dinner group is to take a couple of weeks off. Jack misses the girls and doesn't understand why they are gone all day. He keeps asking if Halle is in California. Hopefully, with both girls in school all day, I will be able to get some big projects done . . .

Kate's Grandmas

2007-08-27T08:27:00.000-07:00

Grandma T. and Kate after Kate's blessing.Kate with Nana when she was visiting last week.

Grand Camp 2007

2007-08-26T18:20:00.000-07:00

Here are some pictures from Grand Camp. My parents started a new tradition this year (it was postponed due to my dad trying to die on us). It is for all the grandkids that are at least six years old. The seven grandchildren that live in Utah all flew on a plane by themselves to play with their grandparents for a few days. Harmon arrived with the kids at the airport an hour prior to departure, which turned out to be not enought time. They ran all the way from security and only made their flight by about 1 minute! Halle only had to make two stops to throw up due to nerves/excitement! Harmon was not too thrilled. Alex, my niece, was the oldest and helped out on the plane with all of the kids. I think Halle was the only one that spilled her drink on the flight - thanks for helping Alex! The theme this year was Alma 37:35 "O, remember, my son, and learn wisdom in thy youth; yea, learn in thy youth to keep the commandments of God." They got t-shirts with the theme on them and they memorized the scripture. They went to Magic Mountain, the beach, took horseback riding lessons, went to Dana Point and went swimming at my parents. My kids had a ball and are already looking forward to next year. I am so glad my parents have started this new tradition.

The kids at IHOP after their flight arrived.

Lacey is so lucky to have two cousins her same age.

Nana and Halle got soaked on a ride at Magic Mountain.
They loved the beach.

My parents took the kids to see where we went to LaMadera, our elementary school. The old "Big Toy" has been replaced by a new and improved version. The kids loved hearing about our childhood and each came prepared with a story to tell about us when we were kids.
They stayed and played kick ball at the school.

They went to Dana Point.
Halle discovered she isn't afraid of horses after all.
Lacey loved her horse, Magic, and wants to take lessons here.

Cascade

2007-08-21T12:24:00.000-07:00

We had another wonderful year at Cascade. This year had some firsts for the kids - their first time fishing and Lacey's first time on the knee board. We are already looking forward to next year. Here are some of our favorite pictures from our trip:

Oceanfront property - this was our home away from home at Cascade.
Jack made a bird feeder with the park ranger out of a pine cone. He liked eating the peanut butter and oatmeal mixture better than making the pine cone.
Harmon collects golf balls all year just so he can stand in our "backyard" and hit golf balls into the lake.
Jack with Grandma and Papa T.
Halle caught her first fish ever! Fishing was a hit with the kids this year. She got $5.00 from Papa T. for catching the biggest fish (it was a tie between her and Ryan).
Lacey even caught a rainbow trout. Papa T. gave her her own fishing pole.
Halle waterskied again this year and loved it. Most kids get scared right before the boat takes off but Halle was just excited. She can even shake her booty while she skis!
Lacey did so well on the knee board. It was her first year knee boarding and she loved it!
Lacey the surfer girl.
The kids loved riding the wave runners.

Jack with some serious bed head. He loved playing on the beach.
Kate spent a lot of time with me on the beach in her swing while I read. She was such a happy camper! I couldn't ask for a better baby (well, maybe one less barfy!).
Jack always wanted a ride on the four wheelers. Uncle Dan took him out one night before dinner. Jack got a little chilly so Dan zipped him up in his jacket. Dan said it was only about 30 seconds later that he felt Jack' s head nodding off to sleep! So he arrived back sound asleep on the four wheeler with his helmet on.
Grandma and Papa T. with all of the grand kids.
This is Jack on the way down the mountain. He played so hard the whole week. He is going to hate reality. Check out those lashes!

Thumb Sucker

2007-08-21T11:57:00.000-07:00

Kate finally found her thumb on Saturday. I swear she has been trying since she was born, but she is now consistently getting her thumb in her mouth. Halle (our other thumb sucker) has been rooting her on from the beginning and is the most excited about her latest accomplishment. I have mixed feelings about her sucking her them. It is very convenient and I like not having to ever search for a pacifier, however, pacifiers are much easier to get rid of. We'll see what happens . . .

First Day of School

2007-08-21T11:30:00.000-07:00

Lacey and Halle got home from Grand Camp just in time to start school. They were so excited to start school - I think mainly because of their new outfits. They both had a good first day of school. Lacey thought her new teacher, Ms. Meyers, was very strict (I like that!). Halle loved her new teach Mrs. Davis - she said that she was "Sweet!". I think I am going to be able to get going on some projects, or at least be able to start my blog. We'll see how this goes. Jack isn't sure he likes them gone all day. I think I might become a new woman!