Evans Heaven

The Big Storm

2012-01-25T16:00:00.000-08:00

Jacob sitting in a snow covered road

Upon returning home from our trip to Utah we had heard that Seattle had some snow. The kids were excited to see the snow at our house as it is always fun in Seattle when it snows because everything stops. And best of all our cul-de-sac hill becomes a sledders hang out. Besides the snow already on the ground, the weather man had predicted a snow storm that would make history. After one day of being home, the snow storm came. It started out by snowing 7 inches.

Which for Seattle is A LOT!

Later on that same day it started to rain freezing rain.

Which made it hard to be outside because it was wet and very cold.

The next morning we woke up to the most unusual ice setting.

For almost 10 years I have gotten up at 6am to run with some friends. We have run in everything from: snow, very heavy rain, extreme cold, to power outage (no street lights even). But this was the first time we really could not run, because everything was covered in a sheet of ice, including the snow.

Because this was so unusual we still went out but just walked, and admired all the glistening trees and bushes.

Our house

This never happens in Seattle

The ice on the trees was beautiful

During this snow storm....

The kids had 3 days off from school

We didn't leave the house for 4 days

The garbage man didn't come

The milk man didn't come

Everything was canceled,

however, the Postman He STILL CAME!

Everything was so pretty, but.........................

many of the trees couldn't take the weight of the ice (it was so thick 2 inches on some). All day we would hear gun shot noises which were the sound of breaking trees. It was sad.

Below is a picture of our evergreen trees. We lost a few major branches, but are grateful that neither one of them fell during the storm.

Because it was leaning on our house at one point.

The ice didn't stop Lydia, she would stay out in it forever!

After coming down with a case of "Cabin Fever" we set out to see what the neighborhood looked like. Some members of our ward, lost most of the trees in their front yard. It was shocking to see.

On Saturday after most of the ice had melted, some men and youth in our ward went around and randomly helped several people in the neighborhood. Landon and Mason joined them and worked almost 6 hours cutting down trees and clearing up streets and yards. If you ask the boys what their favorite day of the snow storm was they would say it was this day for sure!

A celebration of 60 years!

2012-01-25T15:30:00.000-08:00

We felt very blessed to be able to take our entire family to Utah for Grandpa Evans' 60th birthday. It was a short trip, but we squeezed in as much fun as we could for this 4 day weekend.

The first day we were in Utah, Zeke worked on finishing the walls of his parent's family room. Zeke enjoyed helping out, but even more he enjoyed working along side of 3 of his brothers.

When they finished that evening, the room looked beautiful!

While Zeke worked on the house, I took the kids to Pleasant View to see the Findlays.

We spent the day with them. The kids played hard and loved being together.

And I got to personally wish Melissa a Happy Birthday since it was her Birthday.

Saturday Grandpa's party began.

We spent the day at "Classic Skating" in Salt Lake City. It was a perfect birthday party place for lots of grand-kids.

An Arcade

Nate and Hallee

An endless Jungle with balls and bouncing

Saydie

Skating or Scooter Riding

Mason

And Much, Much More.....

Our kids loved hanging out with their cousins, they don't get to seem to very often, but when they do they have a blast!

Grandma and Grandpa have 2 dogs living with them right now.
Lydia and Jacob love animals, so they are always so thrilled to play with the dogs!

Saydie and Lydia

Jacob, Ikie, and Will

As fun as Saturday was, Sunday was unforgettable, as we were able to share stories, talents and our love for Grandpa Evans

Grandpa and Landon

Firsts we ate!

Then we heard stories about Grandpa's life

Then the show began......

Some Danced!

Ivie

Ikie

Jacob

Some performed on musical instruments

Spencer

Ladon

Saydie

Lydia introducing her piano song

Some Sang Songs

Tim singing Mormon Rap- hilarious!

Trish, Jana and Greg

Some sang and played

Josh

Some of the grand kids did back flips for Grandpa with help from Coach Luke!

Will

Jacob

Seth

And some told jokes, and more jokes....so many jokes, I stopped taking pictures.

Thomas

Best of all Grandpa loved every minute of it!

Happy Birthday Grandpa!

Bulldog Basketball!

2012-01-25T15:00:00.000-08:00

Landon and Mason enjoyed playing on the 7th grade basketball team this year.

Their season ran for 2 1/2 months.

They also enjoyed being coached by a favorite former teacher, their 6th grade math teacher: Mr. Lubash.

Landon #23

Mason #7

Mason-- Facial Expression :)

Unfortunately, their season was cut short and they had to cancel 2 games due to the recent snow and ice storm. They were bummed as they were looking forward to a rematch from a tough team that they had already played which happens to be the Jr. High I went to.

New Years Eve 2012

2012-01-25T14:30:00.000-08:00

We have celebrated New Years many years with our friends the Hatches. We have always gotten together at our house with our kids and played games, ate lots of food, and rang in the New Year watching the Space Needle fireworks show on the television. Since our kids are getting older we thought it would be fun to go into Seattle this year and watch the space needle live from Attachemate (Zeke's office), which is only a few blocks away from the Seattle Center.

Our first stop for the night was the Spaghetti Factory.

The girls each brought their dolls... it was a party!

And we didn't have to grocery shop, cook or clean up a mess, a fabulous way to start off our

New Years Celebration!

Not knowing if Attachemate would be crowded with others watching the fireworks we decided to go to the movie "We Bought A Zoo"

We arrived at Attahemate around 10pm and found the place all to ourselves. The kids were so excited to roam free around the halls of Dad's office and the boys were thrilled with the game room all to themselves. It was amazing to be in the city, that was hoping with excitement and have an amazing view of the needle with all this room to ourselves. We had only wished we had come sooner!

Once midnight came we ran outside and blow our horns and watched the fireworks.

(the 3 lights in the distance is the start of them)

Bye 2011!

Hello 2012!

Happy New Year!!!

Back to School 2011

2011-09-12T15:00:00.000-07:00

Our family enjoyed a wonderful summer.

In fact it ended way to early as the kids went back to school last week.

The boys are in 7th grade this year. Being their second year in Middle School, it was no big deal for them. However for mom (and maybe dad), every year gets harder to watch the kids get more and more grown up. In 7th grade the boys have the option to play on the football team. Mason has been looking forward to playing tackle football for a long time. He was so excited he insisted on his helmet being in all the back to school pictures.

Lydia started 3rd grade this year. She loves everything about school so going back was a breeze. This year she has one of Mason and Landon's all time favorite teachers: Mr. Marcotte. I don't know who was more excited, her or the boys.

Lydia was also thrilled the first day when she realized her whole primary class is in her school class. On the front row is her assigned seat, right in the middle of two of her friends from church (Joey and Hunter).

Jacob started his second year of preschool. He is going to the same preschool that he went to last school year. He had to wait a little longer than the older kids for his first day back to school. He was so excited to go back to the yellow house preschool with the teacher that he loves: Miss Cindy.

Camp Parsons

2011-07-14T21:31:00.000-07:00

Turning 12 brings a lot of firsts. A couple weeks ago I took a week off and joined Landon and Mason on their first scout camp and Camp Parsons on the Hood Canal. It is a great camp with a lot of history.

They are lucky to have a great Scout Master, Rob Curtis, who is dedicated to helping all of the boys and gives up a lot of his personal time in doing so.

The camp staff provided three meals a day, which were served in a crowded, but serviceable mess hall. The food was, well, about as good as you could expect.

You appreciate their food more on the day that you have to cook your own.

Their troop did a lot of fun activities together, including archery shooting and a service project.

They spent every morning and part of each afternoon working on merit badges. They were able to earn badges for Environmental Science, Emergency Preparedness, Fingerprinting and Wilderness Survival. The last one required them to spend a night in the woods with nothing more than what they could fit in their pockets. Luckily the weather cooperated and they made it through the night. They were back in camp by 5:00AM, in time to get a real wink of sleep before breakfast.

Paintball

2011-07-14T21:21:00.000-07:00

I had the chance to take our Star Wars and Harry Potter fans out for a battle closer to reality -- paintballing. Our friends, the Smeltzer's, invited us to join them at a nearby course. Landon and Mason had never done anything quite like it, but I think they got the hang of it and had a good time. They were pretty concerned about how much it would hurt when they got it, but manned up and enjoyed some fun battles.

Vote for Landon. He's Outstandin!

2011-07-14T20:53:00.000-07:00

I'm not sure where he got the nerve to run for class Senate (certainly not from his parents), but somehow Landon got the idea got in him and he gave it go. Having only a weekends notice from the school as to start dates and rules he hurried and put together a pretty good campaign. He came up with a slogan -- Vote for Landon. He's Outstandin! -- made posters to hang and buttons to hand out. It only lasted a week and then he gave a brief speech to all of 6th and 7th grade.

There were over twenty candidates and only four could be voted in. Once the votes were tallied, he was informed that he was not elected. Not sure if that will end his political aspirations or not, but we thought he did a great job and our proud of him for going outside his comfort zone and giving it a try.

Landon is definitely Outstandin!

General Conference

2011-07-14T20:41:00.000-07:00

Every April and October we have the opportunity to hear from our prophet and apostles in General Conference. Since it is in Salt Lake we have always watched it over a satellite feed to the church, over TV or the internet. Even though I grew up near Salt Lake, I don't recall every going to a session in person. In April we had to opportunity to go to Salt Lake and take Landon and Mason to see a couple of sessions in person. It was a neat experience.

Temple Baptisms

2011-07-14T20:33:00.000-07:00

Last March we took Landon and Mason to do baptisms in the Seattle Temple. They are eager to learn and participate in everything they know about the gospel. They had been looking forward to going inside the temple to perform baptisms on behalf of those who did not have the opportunity in this life.

Lydia's Baptism

2011-06-10T13:02:00.000-07:00

Lydia was baptized last weekend. It was a wonderful weekend for her and our family. She had waited for this day for a long time and was so excited to officially become a member of
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints.

A few weeks before her baptism, I took a few pictures of her in her white dress. Here are a few of our favorite pictures.

Our family the day after the baptism.

Lydia with her Grandma Evans and Grandma and Grandpa McKinney

Lydia was baptized and confirmed by her father.

Lydia was lucky to have many cousins and siblings there.

Lydia with her fellow 8 year old cousin buddy Jack.

(Jack, Jacob, Landon, Izabel, Cameron, Quinn, Mason, Lydia, Ella, and Halle)

After we enjoyed refreshments in the park. We were blessed with a beautiful sunny day.

Lydia enjoying refreshments with her friends.

Jacob with his buddies Sophie and Quinn. Trying to keep his church clothes clean.

A day Lydia will will remember always.

Thank you to all those that shared this day with us.

Snow Days

2010-11-23T20:20:00.001-08:00

Winter arrived early this year. This week we've had a crazy amount of snow. It all started Sunday night, and since we didn't get any snow last year the kids were so excited that they hurried out because they weren't sure how long it would last.

Here are a few reasons we love snow days in Seattle:

Jumping on the Trampoline

"it's like being in an igloo"-Lydia

Our cul-de-sac becomes a sled hill and everyone on our street comes over to play!

Sledding with friends!

Sipping hot chocolate and cooling it off with snow.

Watching Jacob hike up and down the hill. He's a die hard sledder- he thinks he went down the hill 2000 times.
Landon and Mason took the responsibility of walking to the neighborhood grocery store for me. With a short shopping list, $20 and a cell phone they felt so grown up, and it helped me out.
Snow ball fights of coarse!

School being cancelled and hanging out with friends, laughing the whole time.

Playing so long Lydia's boot shoelaces freeze together, but it's so worth it!

Fall Soccer

2010-11-21T16:05:00.000-08:00

Lydia had a great time playing soccer this fall. We thought she mostly wanted to spend time with friends, but we she seems to have a lot of fun with the sport as well.

Jostling for position

The downside of fall soccer (or maybe its just soccer in the Northwest) is that the fields get pretty sloshy by the end of the season. Lydia played goalie the final game and got to stand in a pile of mud.

And of course, her biggest fan.

Lower Lake Lena

2010-11-21T15:28:00.000-08:00

In August Landon and Mason went on their first real camping trip. As 11 year old scouts they were invited to join the older scout troop on a backpacking trip to Lower Lake Lena (pdf), just inside the Olympic National Park.

Trailhead

The entire trail looked pretty much like this. Roughly 3.5 miles each way, but the first half is all uphill and feels more like 7 by itself.

We crossed a couple bridges, this one very tame. I wish I had a picture of the bridge/log we crossed while looking for a campsite. Bro. Curtis and I are still just grateful we all made it.

Finally made it to the top. Beautiful hike and picturesque lake!

The most notable part of the trip was that the few campgrounds were all taken. We hiked well into the evening hours looking for a place to setup tents and build a fire to cook our meals. We ended up settling for a rocky, stumpy and mossy hillside that was just clear enough to lay a few sleeping bags down. I'll leave it at that so Landon and Mason can add in all the folklore they feel necessary while telling you the story themselves.

Jacob turns 3!

2010-04-03T05:03:00.000-07:00

We love this little boy! It's hard to believe but this past Sunday he turned 3! We gave him a new church shirt and tie for his birthday, which he proudly wore because it was just like what Landon and Mason wear. He offically went from toddler to little man! After church we had Grandma, Grandpa and Uncle Matt over for dinner. We gave Jacob the head of the table for his special day!

Last year it was Elmo this year Jacob loves Mickey Mouse!
So a Mickey Mouse birthday cake it was.

The next day we had Jacob's first friend birthday party.

We had the birthday party after school so his best little playmate Lydia could join in on the fun however, it made for a long day for him to wait.

For fun, I made a Mickey Mouse clubhouse for Jacob's party out of a washer box.

Finally, the friends arrived! Jacob was so exicted to share his birthday with 6 little friends.

We played a few games, put on Mickey ears and danced the "Fancy Dance".Cake time!

Happy Birthday Jacob!

Favors!Ever since the party Lydia and Jacob have hardly left the clubhouse (washer box). On Friday night they even slept in it together. Who knew a box could be so much fun!

Country Kids

2010-04-03T03:36:00.001-07:00

During the first week of March my brother Josh and his family came to Washington for a visit. Technically Josh was working that week so he was away at the farm, but we were able to spend time with the rest of his family. On the weekend we drove out to where he was working and spent a day in the country. It was an amazingly beautiful day for early March as the kids ran and played all over an 180 acre farm in Elma, Washington.

My brother Josh is a successful business man in Austin, Texas. But when he comes out to the farm on occasion he gets to live the country lifestyle and that means growing a beard.

On the farm is an old farm house. It may not look like much on the outside, but inside it is completely remodeled and sleeps close to 25 people.

Josh works closely with the owner of his company so it was just the two of them that came out to this farm for a week. Most of the time they spend working in this apple orchard and blueberry field.

Lydia loved the farm. She hardly came into the house that day. At one point she told me when I asked her if she liked the country she said "I'm a country girl mom, not a city girl".

Jacob adores his cousin Amelia. They have a great time anytime they are together. Playing with cousins on a farm reminded me of when I was little playing with my cousins on my Grandpa's farm. The Rhino was a hit and it was the only way to see all the farm.

Landon and Mason even had their first driving lessons.

We ended the day with a bonfire, hot dogs, and marshmallows. Thanks Josh for sharing this fun place with us!

Fun in California

2010-03-21T20:38:00.000-07:00

Every February our kids have a week off for what the school district calls "Mid-Winter Break". We have always wanted to sneak away during this week and go somewhere sunny and warm but have never done such. So after many years we decided this was the year to do it. We talked about many different sunny places, and in the end decided to visit California. The weather wasn't hot by any means but very enjoyable. Most of all we loved getting away as a family and making many great memories.

First the flight:it's as fun as an amusement park ride for Lydia

(not so much for her parents though)

I love the ocean!! I tell Zeke that I have to see it at least once a year, which I always do, since we reside not to far from the Northwest Beaches. But seeing the California beaches with surfers, seals and sun is amazing!

Unfortunately this is the only picture I have of the CA beach (and it was taken from the car:( . Somehow we lost on our computer 1 1/2 days of pictures. It makes me sad, because they were some of my favorite pictures all from the beach and some from Sea World. I asked Zeke for 2 weeks to work his magic and retrieve them, and to give him credit he did everything he could think of with no luck.

I am trying to think positive though, because we could have lost them all.

SEA WORLD
We loved Sea World!!

Lydia was so excited because her first grade class had been studying about Penguins and she was able to see so many different kinds of Penguins in this amazing exhibit.

Jacob has a fascination with fish! He would out last everyone of us while observing all the fish life at Sea World.

Our first show was the Sea Lion show and it was so much funny that we had to go back the second day to see it again!

We spent more money on feeding the seals then we did on our own lunch that day, and boy the seals aren't too shy wanting the goods.

We loved the Flamingos too.

Sea World has a Sesame Street area. Jacob loves Elmo, but we weren't too sure how he would react to all the characters until he ran right into Elmo's arms.

The Shamu Show was spectacular!

Besides this one picture, all the other pictures of the show were lost.

Landon, Mason and Zeke braved the front rows and had blast getting splashed.

Out of all the shows we saw on our trip this was our favorite!

WILD ANIMAL PARK

We spent one day in the Wild Animal Park. It is an 1800 acre zoo in beautiful Escondido. We didn't know this at the time but it is a breeding zoo for the San Diego Zoo, so they try to keep the animals in as close to their natural habitat as possible.

We were so excited when the first animal we saw at the zoo was a 6 day old elephant.

Born on Valentines day!

It was beautiful there.

We were able to ride a tram, this allowed us to get very close to the animals.

We even joined the jaguars during their lunch time.

Would you want her job?

Lions are the boys favorites!

So many interesting birds were throughout this park.

We so much walking it was fun to stop at the Zoo's playground for awhile.

Jacob got up close to his friendly bird.

The birds were so pretty and friendly I decided to feed them some nectar. Didn't know I would turn into the bird lady. The one on my must of thought my hairspray or something had nectar in it, because he ate some of my hair.

Mormon Battalion Center

One day we went to visit this newly remodeled visitor center. We didn't know what to expect and were very pleasantly surprised. It was so wonderful! If you are ever in San Diego go it's AMAZING!!

Landon and Mason have always had a great interest in church history, and I will admit they knew more about the Mormon Battalion then I did prior to visiting the visitor center. They were trilled to dress up like the and feel what the soldiers had to carry for 1,900 miles.

At the end of the tour we were able to mine for gold. Our tour guide happened to be from Washington, and I had worked with her mom many years ago while serving in a Stake calling. It was neat to have that acquaintance and have her share a piece of her mission with our family.

Later we visited Old Town.

SAN DIEGO TEMPLE

Our family had only seen pictures of this beautiful temple, so it was neat for us to go and walk the grounds in person.

DISNEYLAND

We ended our trip with 3 days in Disneyland.

We had seen so many animals at Sea World and the Zoo we were ready for some rides!!

And more shows...

It was hard to tell if Landon was embarrassed that he was picked out of the crowd to join the HSM3 parade or if he was excited. I think maybe a little of both.

Then there is the characters. Jacob and Lydia loved them ALL!

I was even able to get my big boys to pose for a few character shots.

What a HAPPY place.

Lydia and Landon got their dancing bug out during this fun parade!

But the ultimate favorite of all 3 of my big kids was the Jedi training.

Lydia was just as excited to get trained as were her brothers. For a few moments she was the only one that had been picked out of our family to join the training, and we thought oh-no! Luckily the boys were picked shortly after so they could all become official Jedi Warriors.

Below: Lydia fighting Darth Vader (who would have thought)

Mason showing his Jedi skills. Can you tell how serious he is?

Landon was serious also! Zeke and I had some good chuckles watching.

Lydia is an offical Jedi now:)

More characters and more hugs.

And of course Mickey!

We played so hard at Disneyland, that we would put off eating, until the park was closed. Here is Mason late one night building a Mickey Pizza.
O--what fun it is......
Jacob completely suprised our family during this vacation. He walked everywhere! We brought a stroller everyday, but he insisted on walking and holding our hands instead. I can't imagine how many steps those small legs took, but not once did he complain. He was in heaven!

So much fun!

Bye Disneyland, Bye California!

Thanks for the memories!!!

Belated Birthday Post

2010-02-28T21:28:00.001-08:00

With February coming to a close, we couldn't let this month pass by without documenting the three birthdays we celebrated at the beginning of the month.

First it was my birthday. This year it fell on a Sunday and what a treat that was to have the day to spend with my family. Zeke treated me so well. I woke up to a yummy breakfast and then he had my parents over for dinner in the afternoon.

Topped off by a cherry chip flavored cake-my favorite!

Two days later, Landon and Mason woke up to a room full of balloons.
Like every kid they had been looking forward to their birthday for weeks, so these balloons were found in the early hours of the morning.

For dinner we could not pass up the 3 free birthday burgers at Red Robin.

Our family eats so much cake during this birthday week.
Here is a picture of the second of three rounds of cake.
The boys requested basketball cakes.

Landon and Mason are truly great friends as well as very close brothers. They very rarely have a disagreement and always love to be together. The day before their birthday they were making bets to see who would be the first to wish each other a Happy Birthday. So when we went to light the candles on the cake, they wanted to blow out their candles together. As well as sing their own birthday song to each other.

One of the best things about turning 11 is retiring from Cub Scouts and graduating into Scouts. Here is Landon sporting his new shirt.

Mason and Landon were able to go on an early camp out the weekend before.

They have always loved scouts.

The following Saturday was their birthday party.

For the party the boys wanted a UW cake.

In planning the party we talked about many things to do, but in the end the boys just wanted to have a late night party at our house.

With 10 boys it was sure to be fun!

First we played a game at that house and ate pizza and then it was off to the elementary school playground for late night games and a flash night scavenger hunt.

The boys had a blast having the playground to themselves while they hunted for a treasure.

Lydia was just as excited about the party and was even a little bit helpful with some of the teams. Since she helped hide many of the clues.

After the flashlight scavenger hunt they played "kick the can", and "sardine hide and seek". If we hadn't planned to watch a movie back at the house the boys could have stayed for several more hours, even in the light rain. Landon with damp clothes, hair, and all smiles.

What can we say: Mason loves attention:)

We are so grateful for these two boys! They bring us so much joy and happiness. As much as we wish they could stay little, we love seeing them grow and develop into amazing boys.

Achievements!

2010-01-15T09:46:00.001-08:00

Our Mason has aways dreamed of becoming a composer ever since he started playing the piano. His piano teacher gives clues each month for a historical "Mystery Composer". Mason always is the first to guess who it is and often pictures himself one day being like one of the greats: Beethoven, Bach or Mozart!

For the last three years Mason has entered the National Reflections contest. He composes a simple song to go along with the theme. This years theme was "Beauty is..." so Mason wrote a song called the "Seasons of the Earth", where he composed a small musical segment for each season. He was asked to perform the song he wrote at the school district "Reflections" awards ceremony.

After he played his song, he lined up with other musical entries.

He was surprised when he was awarded by the superintendent

1st place in the musical composition category.

Our composer!

Last weekend also marked the end of an era for my Dad. After working 36 years at Weyerhaeuser he RETIRED!!

For my whole life my Dad worked at Weyerhaeuser!
Back in November when my brother Josh was here, we went to lunch with my Dad at Weyerhaeuser (along with Jett and Jacob). When I was younger I remember how much I loved going to lunch with my dad at Weyerhaeuser.

As part of celebrating my Dad's retirement, Melissa came to town. It was so fun to have her here. Together with my mom we put on a retirement party for my Dad.

We made lots of yummy food. Here is the dessert table!

(New Years Resolutions didn't last too long this year) With close to 40 people over it turned out to be a great party! Many people gave my Dad advice on what to do with all his spare time now, and my mom even had him smash an alarm clock.

Landon and Mason also sang a little retirement jingle for my Dad. Happy Retirement Dad!!

Christmas 2009

2009-12-30T14:52:00.000-08:00

We had a very peaceful, relaxing Christmas this year.

Christmas Eve

We went to Grandpa and Grandma McKinney's house and enjoyed a delicious prime rib dinner and then was treated to a reading of the nativity with live characters.

Roman Gladiator: Landon

Mary: Lydia

Joseph: Mason

Shepard: Jacob and Mason

Angel: Landon

Following the nativity we sang Christmas carols accompanied on the piano by each one of the kids.

Right after Lydia finished playing her song, Jacob jumped on the piano and wanted us to sing Jingle Bells along to his own composition. For a two year old, he played very softly and took it very seriously even if it was completely all the wrong notes and rhythm. It was really cute!

We ended the evening with a traditional Bingo game and the opening of new Pajama's.

Christmas Morning
The kids waited patiently for everyone to wake up. Lydia and Mason claim they hardly slept and had been up for hours. Lydia also claims at those wee hours in the night she saw Santa's sleigh out her bedroom window. At 7:45am the kids were more than anxious to run down and see what had been left by Good ol St. Nick!

All the excitement was a little much for Jacob.

He enjoyed the first 15 minutes of Christmas watching or hiding on the stairs.

Landon didn't have much on his list this year for Christmas. Santa surprised him with an unexpected electric scooter. He was thrilled!!

In Mason's words his dream came true Christmas morning when he opened this guitar. He has wanted one for many years. We are excited to see what sweet sounds he will soon make.

After Jacob warmed up to the Christmas spirit he was thrilled with his new

Thomas the train set.

Lydia has a new doll that looks just like her! The smile on her face was priceless all day. The dolls name is "Holly December Evans". Holly because she was a Christmas present and December because she was born in December and middle names are always after what month you are born in just like Lydia "Mae". Lydia and Jacob also got a scrapbook of pictures of them together. They are good little friends, and they both loved looking at their new book together. Christmas was as usual full of lots of yummy food.

Here we are at the end of the day sitting down to dinner.

Mason, Mom and Jacob enjoyed the day completely by staying in their pajama's all day. It's the one day of year, you can get away with it.

As the day came to an end and we checked on all our kids. It as sweet to see them all sound asleep after such a wonderful day!

Day after: December 26th

We were treated to wonderful weather during Christmas. It was perfect for a little trip to the school to try out the new scooter.

Mason wants a ride.....

Even works for doubles with the little ones, so much fun!!

Busy and festive December

2009-12-26T15:20:00.000-08:00

Our December was filled with many festive activities. Made for an eventful and very fast month!!!

December 1st

Piano Recital

It was Landon and Mason's 14th recital and Lydia's first!

Each of them did a great job!

Landon played: Santa Claus Swing in to Town and Raiders

Mason played: Up on the Housetop and Minute

Lydia played: Jingle Bells and Claire De Lune

Landon and Mason always throw a twist into the traditional piano recital. For example last year Landon dressed up like Santa and made a grand appearance.

This year they "rocked around the Christmas tree" while their friend Madison played

"Rock in Around the Christmas Tree"

December 5th

Neighborhood Donuts with Santa

It's always fun to start out the month sharing a donut with Santa at our neighborhood community center. We were thrilled when Jacob eagerly jumped onto Santa's lap this year and gave him his wish list.

Later on December 5th

Gingerbread House at Top Foods Grocery Store
Lydia loved making a gingerbread house at our local grocery store. Mom was trilled because all the goodies for the house was provided and the mess stayed there:)

Evening of December 5th

Lydia in the Santa Parade
Lydia marched in the Auburn Santa parade this year with her Dance Theatre.

She was a cute little soldier!

She had fun being in the parade with her friend McKenzie.

December 16th
Grandpa's Retirement Dinner
It was really fun for our family (minus Jacob) to attend a retirement dinner for Grandpa. He has worked for Weyerhauser for 36 years and is retiring the beginning of January. Many kind words were spoke about him and yummy food was enjoyed by all.

Grandpa's and a few of his current co-workers.

December 19th

Mill Pond Ward Polar Express Christmas Party

Our ward had a magical Christmas party this year. The theme was Polar Express. The kids wore their PJ's just like the Polor Express and ate breakfast and even went on an imaginary train ride.

Landon below with Santa

Lydia

Jacob

Mason

Later on December 19th

Lydia's Christmas Dance Recital

She enjoys her dance class with two of her friends: McKenzie and Carly

December 22nd

PSNW Ballet The NUTCRACKER

Lydia, Grandma and Stephanie attended the Nutcracker in Seattle right before Christmas. It was so good. All three of us enjoyed the show so much! We figured out the last time Stephanie and her Mom went to the Nutcracker in Seattle was when Stephanie was pregnant with Lydia.

December 23rd

Snowflake Lane: Bellevue, WA

Zeke works right next to a large shopping area in Bellevue and every night in December there is a street show with a whole drum line, characters, snow, music, etc. Stephanie and the kids drove up one night and meet Zeke and attended the festivities. It's always magical for the kids, especially the little ones.

Thanksgiving Weekend 2009!

2009-12-06T22:13:00.000-08:00

We had a wonderful Thanksgiving this year.

First we went to Grandma and Grandpa McKinney's house for the big feast. The food was yummy and Grandma and Grandpa always make it special for us.

Jacob loves to help, so he was given this job.

Except only half of the olives made it to the table.
My 3 boys!!

The day after Thanksgiving we got up early and drove into Seattle by 8am for the Macy's Christmas Parade. It was colorful, festive and a little chilly.

After the parade the kids (except Mason, he's was feeling a little bit too old)

enjoyed the Merry-Go-Round.

Then we went to the Sheraton Hotel and walked through their Gingerbread Displays.

They were neat.

We stayed over night in Seattle that night and enjoyed swimming in the hotel and going out to eat.

Saturday morning was the annual Seattle Kids Marathon. Landon, Mason and Lydia participated this year. They each ran 25 miles prior to the race and finished the accumulated marathon last mile around the space needle.

Below are the runners.

Our friends the Biddulphs joined us this year at the hotel and the race. Their two girls Madison and Brinkley also raced.

This was Lydia's second year. She was so excited to run it with her Dad.

The marathon is always a great way to burn those extra Thanksgiving calories.

After the marathon, we headed back to our hotel, swam a little more and then packed up and headed out the door to the "Apple Cup".

University of Washington vs. Washington State football game.

We got to the field early enough to get a good seat. We entered the stadium the same time as the football team. We cheered for them as they walked off the bus and then they walked right by us into the stadium and Mason was so excited he jumped up and down non stop. He was able to give the star quarterback Jack Locker a high five before he entered the field.

We could have gone home at that point because that made Mason's day!! We sat in a very spirited section. They all knew each other, and so our family of 6 stood out. I've never gone to a sport game where the "usher" hugs almost every person coming into his section like they are his family, and then passes out hand warmers and candy to everyone. Watching the fans in our section was almost as fun as watching the football game.

Jacob cheered "Go Huskies" and danced to all the music.

It was a great game as the Huskies won 30-0!

Go HUSKIES!

Football Season

2009-12-06T21:47:00.001-08:00

The boys have always enjoyed being a part of a sport team. For six years they have played fall soccer. This year they decided to retire the soccer ball and pick up the football and joined a flag football league, and to sum it up they LOVED IT!

Zeke signed up to be the coach and love it just as much (you should see his play book and mini white board). Our friend Jon Hatch was the assistant coach and together they did a great job with these boys. Our team did awesome and if memory serves me right, they only lost one game.

They always have fun playing on a team with their friend Caleb.

They boys were pumped every night they had a game.

Many of the game nights were freezing for us to watch, but it didn't stop these two fans from wanting to come down to the field.

Halloween Fun!

2009-11-01T19:56:00.000-08:00

We love Halloween!

Here are a few things we did to celebrate this fun holiday!

We went to a Pumpkin Patch!

We convinced Jacob to be a pumpkin for Halloween!

For a month every time we asked Jacob what he wanted to be for Halloween he would respond that he was going to be "Jesus". As much as we want him to "try to be like Jesus", we know it was not appropriate for him to dress up as Jesus for Halloween. Being the very opinionated 2 year old boy that he his, it was hard to convince him otherwise. A week before Halloween we spent an hour trying to make this pumpkin costume look cool by having each member of our family put the head part on and also by showing Jacob pictures of Landon and Mason wearing the same costume when they were 1 1/2. Finally he put it on and was excited about being a pumpkin.

The one time he put the pumpkin top on his head.
Trick Or Treating "Attachemate" in Seattle

It had been 3 years since we went trick or treating to Dad's office. It has always been something we loved to do, so we were excited to go back this year.

First the kids Trick or Treated the offices. A company that use to cover 2 buildings now only covers 3 floors. But that was still plenty of candy for our crew.

After the trick or treating "Attachemate" had a great party for the families.

Lots of food, games and crafts.

Landon dressed as a Werewolf and won an award for great kids costume!

He felt so tough in his costume he went along to protect me in the spook alley.

Wait he left me in the back to be cased by the crazy chainsaw doctor.

Adult Friend Party

Zeke and I attended a party as a witch and a mummy.

Witches were popular this year at the party. There were 3 of us.

Carving Pumpkins
We were a little behind this year and left the carving till Halloween Day. We were excited though because for the first time we grew our own pumpkins and ended up with 2 beauties.

Here's Lydia's and Mom's pumpkin!

The boys pumpkin!

Halloween Night all dressed up!

We wanted to show Grandma and Grandpa our costumes so we first stopped at their ward's Trunk or Treat.

There we enjoyed some warm cider and donuts.

Then it was off to Trick or Treat!

I love how so many people in our neighborhood get into it. This house cracked me up.

Jack in the Box answered the door.

and this guy was creepy... but fun!

But most of all it's fun to see fellow friends out and about.

Pink Dad!

2009-10-26T13:05:00.000-07:00

For those who know Zeke well, knows his passion for sports. He has always encouraged our children to participate in sports and has often coached many of their sport teams. As busy as he is with work and church stuff, this fall he was only planning on coaching Landon and Mason's flag football team, however when we were notified that Lydia's soccer team didn't have a coach, Zeke was willing and jumped in and took the role as the team coach. He spoke with the Parks Department and asked all the questions like when is practice, whose on my team, what's the team name but he forgot to ask a very important question ....

"What is the team color?"

Then he would have known it was.......

PINK!!

When he came home with the bag of shirts, the first thing I said was

"That's a perfect color for a little girls team, Lydia will be thrilled"

He's response was

"But what about me?"

Growing up in a house with 7 boys and 1 girl, Zeke didn't experience a lot of pink stuff, let alone ever wear pink. A game doesn't go by without a comment about the shirt from other parents. Our next door neighbor even admitted seeing Zeke in the pink shirt out the window and calling his wife over to see it. And one early Saturday morning game he walked by his football buddies, wearing it. We've had some good laughs about the pink shirt, but I really think he looks great in it and I am now trying to convince him to try other pink shirts.

More than anything it makes Lydia happy that her Dad loves her enough to coach her team even if it means wearing a pink shirt.
Oh and Lydia is doing great on the soccer field, she has become quite the hustler this year.

It must be because she has an awesome coach!

Back to School

2009-09-20T21:01:00.000-07:00

The kids returned to school the Wednesday after Labor Day. It's hard to believe that my two "not so little" boys are in 5th grade. They were pumped the first day of school because they are now the big kids in the building. They are always eager to be involve at school. They are greeters again this year and they also help get all the kids to school safely by being part of safety patrol. Because these activities require them to arrive to school before the rest of the kids, they leave 20 minutes before Lydia and often choose the quickest mode of transportation -their bikes!
I always watch them leave from my front window. This is what it looks like on most days. And often this is what I am thinking "What a blessing it is that they have each other!

Lydia also started 1st grade! I was sad to see her leave me for the whole day, but I know that she is ready and is so glad she loves school.

The biggest adjustment has been for Jacob. He's best playmate is his big sister, and now that she is gone all day and not just during nap time (last year- Kindergarten), it has been a big change for him.

But Jacob and I lived it up the first two days of school.

Day 1 back to school: Jacob was invited to a birthday party at Chuck-e-Cheese. He wasn't much for rides as discovered air hockey, and many ball games.

Day 2 of back to school: Jacob and I hit the Puyallup Fair with our friends Tara and Natalie. Jacob loved seeing the animals, especially the cows. I think there is a little bit of dairy lovin' in his blood;)

Day 3 back to school: Landuary, Landuary, bathrooms, grocery store. But best of all more one on one time with Jacob.

We love summer!!!

2009-08-28T08:53:00.001-07:00

It has been a great summer for our family. We are left with only one week left before school starts and we wish we had another month. The time has flied by this summer and we have manage to squeeze in as much as we can since this has become one of our family's favorite season!!

Here is some of what we have been up to this summer:

Hanging out at Lake Tapps

We love Lake Tapps, for many reasons.
1. Grandma and Grandpa live there

2. It's beautiful!
3. The kids have their swimming lessons there.
4. Golf, basketball, tennis, pickle ball, playground, lake, blackberries, etc.

Winthrop WA, 4th of July!
Our family went up to Winthrop, WA for the 4th.

Winthrop is a beautiful small town in the mountains of north-central Washington.
We meet three other families there and had a nice weekend playing and relaxing.

Playing Baseball in Winthrop!
Craft fair in Winthrop! Lydia loved making all sorts of things at the local 4th of July craft fair.

It was fun to spend the weekend with friends.
We had 15 kids total in a cabin and they all had a blast!

Mariner's game!

Zeke came home one day with great tickets to the mariners game from his boss. We were seated in the 11th row behind home plate. We are so use to being up high that it was different. It was fun to have Grandpa come along with us. The Mariners won, which made it even that much better!

Cub Day Camp!

It was Landon's and Mason's last year at cub day camp. They were not that excited about going this year. However, I volunteered the first day and within the first 1/2 hour they told me that they were so glad they came, they had forgotten how much they like cub day camp.

Tacoma Children's Museum

While the boys were at cub day camp, Lydia, Jacob and myself with another family took advantage of a free day at the museum. We had not been there for many years.

Picking Berries

Summer isn't summer to us without visiting a berry farm. The boys have become great berry pickers, which is great, because we never seem to be able to get enough.

Summer Food Academy

Landon- (who likes to cook) signed up for a cooking class offered through the school district this year. They made breakfast and lunch each day. They also learned about gardening. A lot of the food they cooked with came from a large vegetable garden our school district maintains.

Sleeping Beauty Dance Camp

Lydia participated in a sleeping beauty dance camp. It was held one week for three hours each day. She loved it and had a great time doing it with two other friends, Abigail and Carly.

Drive in Movies
Auburn has one of the last operating drive in movie theaters. One night we decided it would be fun to go. We had a lot of fun.

Cameron surprise visit!

Cameron came to Washington with his dad Chris on business trip. We didn't tell the the kids he was coming, so they were totally surprised. The three of them have a great time together.
Pioneer Day! July 24th
We had fun celebrating pioneer day this year. Our ward had fun activity the night of the 24th and we had fun dressing up and making a cover wagon for the children's parade!

Landon, Mason and Lydia were also asked to sing a pioneer song for a short program they had before dinner. We were so proud of how willing they were to perform a new song they didn't know very well.

Record breaking heat!

Seattle has had one of the warmest, and driest summers ever. One night when it had hit over 100 degrees we escaped to the lake for an evening on the wave runner. It felt more like Lake Powell then Lake Tapps.

Discovering parks and beaches!

Lake Washington, Bellevue, WA

Elliot Bay, Seattle

Watching the sunset after a bike ride along the sound in Seattle.

Moonlight Hike

Chinook Pass

A few women from my ward enjoyed a night hike around Chinook Pass. This particular night was a full moon, so if the sky is clear you can hike this 5 mile hike by moonlight. It was a perfect evening, and the scenery was amazing.

The start of our hike.

The scenery half way through.

Museum of Flight

We could have spent a lot more time here. So much too see!

Finlay's visit!
It's always great when the Findlays come, but the only pictures we took while they were here is this one. Lydia and Jack have a great time together. Aren't they cute!!!

Visiting Boise, ID!

We spent a few days in Boise, so we could meet our newest niece Izabel and attend her baby blessing.

All the McKinney side of our family was there!
The kids loved being with their cousins.

In Boise we went to a water park.

Bronco vs. Seahawk game!
While most of us are a little sad to see summer end Zeke is thrilled that football season has begun. The Broncos came to Seattle last Saturday night so of course we were there! Zeke loves the Bronco and he was so excited to see the Broncos in this pre-season game.

Weekly Playgroup
We have also enjoyed many summer playgroups this summer with friends from church.

It's about time!

2009-06-29T01:10:00.000-07:00

It seem like I am always behind on blogging and then I have so much to post. Below you will see 5 entries. I hope I can break this bad habit.

Seattle Rock and Roll 1/2 Marathon!!!

2009-06-29T00:31:00.000-07:00

10 years ago I never thought I would run a 1/2 marathon, but after 7 years of running at 6am in the morning I finally got myself to sign up for one. The Rock and Roll run sounded like so much fun.

So June 27th was the day. The weather was perfect, it was my 12 year anniversary, and I felt pretty good. We left the house at 5:30am and headed to the starting point along with 25,000 other people.

I have ran a lot of 5K's but this was different. So many more people and such long lines at the potties.

When the horn blew we were off and what a perfect day it was to run along beautiful Lake Washington into down town Seattle.

After 10 weeks of training we wondered how we would do. Zeke has been experiencing some back and alelies issues, two days before the race he didn't even know if he would run, but in the end he "rocked" the race and ended at an amazing time of 1 hour 40 minutes 46 seconds. He came in 505th overall out of 15,541 half marathoners! Wow! I was so proud of him.

It was Tara's first 1/2 too. We ran together and it was so much fun. We surprised ourselves with a great time of 1 hour 53 minutes 28 seconds. Which put me at 1884th place.

What a feeling of accomplishment it is to pass the finish line. The pain was worth that feeling.

The day before the race we picked up our packet at the expo and my kids made these signs along with Tara's kids. They stayed over at Grandma and Grandpa's while we ran. Thank you Grandma and Grandpa for taking care of them on your 40th anniversary.

Later that night Zeke and I went out to dinner on Lake Union to celebrate our 12 year anniversary. Following we went to the post Rock and Roll run concert. KebMo performed and it was nice to sit back and relax.

Rock and Roll 2010 sign me up!!

Lydia's Dance Recital

2009-06-29T00:25:00.000-07:00

Lydia has taken a ballet/tap class this year. Following the last day of school was her recital. She danced beautifully to "Candle on the Water". It was so cute I got a little teary watching her.

End of the Year!

2009-06-29T00:13:00.000-07:00

The school year came to an end on June 19th this year. It was quite the ending this year, because my mom who has taught Kindergarten at my kids school retired. It has been so much fun for my kids to have her there. They are really going to miss her.

The day we got back from Utah she had a retirement party. It was so fun to see some many people she has taught or worked with over the years.

Utah Trip June 3-11th 2009

2009-06-28T23:04:00.000-07:00

It was fun to see so many family and friends while we were in Utah earlier this month.
First stop: The Findlays
My kids love spending time with their cousins.

Below is Mason and Cameron, wearing the same shirt.

Second stop: Logan to see Grandma and Grandpa Nielsen, and several other Nielsen relatives. (Kristie, Richard, Mandy, Sydney, Chole, JoAnn and Jenna)

My Grandparents are amazing. They are both in their 80's and are doing well.

We are so grateful for them.

Lydia had fun hanging out with fellow 6 year old cousins. Jack (on the left is her first cousin and Sydney in the middle is her second cousin). Cousins are instant friends.

Third: Evans Family Reunion at the Edmond's Cabin in Kamas, UT

All 30 members and 2 dogs of the Evans family spent the weekend together away in the mountains. It was wonderful!

Lydia and Maddie (11) played together designing dresses for barbie.

Jacob loved hanging out with Snitzel, and Snitzel was very patient with Jacob.

It was an adventure to go four wheeling in the mountains. Zeke loved giving all the kids rides. After taking all the kids on rides, he and I went on our own ride and came upon an adult brown bear. It was exciting and got our hearts pumping a little faster than normal.

We also meet our newest niece/cousin Halle. She is such a cutie and a very sweet baby.
On Sunday was her baby blessing. Jana is very talented and made this adorable dress. It was a special occasion and Halle was precious.

We were grateful to be able to get a family picture of everyone together.

Mason and Landon had so much fun goofing around with Spencer.

After the family gathering Maddie gave Lydia a ride on her horse bareback right before loading it up and heading up to Logan to a horse camp.

Forth Stop: Oquirrh Mountain Temple Open House!

The last time our family was able to attend an open house was when the boys were 2. It was so neat to be able to go inside and see this beautiful temple. As pretty as it is on the outside the inside was even better.

Fifth Stop: Catching up with college friends.

It was so fun to see my two closest college friends: Cheryl and Amy! Amy just had twin girls and they are adorable. Cheryl had a baby Heidi 1 year ago, and I hadn't seen her yet and she was a cutie. We could have visited all through the night, but unfortunately these mama's can't do that anymore, but it was fun to catch up and laugh about some fun times together.

Sixth Stop: Antelope Island "The Great Salt Lake"

Practicing our cowboy skills at the ranch on the island

With the few opportunities Lydia has had this spring with different horses, she has become a horse lover and tells me she must be a cowgirl.

Finally: Lagoon

On our last day in Utah we went to Lagoon. The crazy thing was it was a pretty rainy day. But hey we are from Seattle so we know how to do stuff in the rain and still have fun.

It's raining so why not go on a log ride????

Jacob warmed up to going on rides and had a great time.

When it rained we just went for cover. For the longest rain interval we got stuck at the bakery in Pioneer Village. Not a bad place to be stuck at for an hour!

Thanks everyone for taking the time to see us while we were there. My kids eyes were filled with tears from the time we got to the airport in the morning to the time they wen to bed that night. It's always hard to say good bye to those you love.

Memorial Weekend Camping Trip 2009

2009-06-28T21:50:00.000-07:00

We love to camp over Memorial weekend every year. This year we tried a new camping spot. It was new to my kids and Zeke, but for me it was the camp where I went to Girls Camp many times as a young women. Ensign Ranch has grown a lot since I was a young girl, and taking my family there was a whole new experience. We loved it and they were all great at letting me reminisce a little about my time spent there as a teenager.

Here was our home in the woods.

The first thing we did was take Lydia and Jacob on horse rides. They both loved it.

Jacob was a bit timid at first to get on a big horse. (He has yet to ride a pony)

After watching Lydia ride we was excited and had a great time.

The kids and some grown ups enjoyed riding in the back of the truck around the campground. It was convenient to be able to haul some many bodies around.

Zeke is always up for the high adventure stuff.

The main reason we love to camp is so we can spend time together as a family away from the TV, phone, computer etc.

The kids had fun carving sticks all weekend. We came home with several walking sticks.

The ranch has several horses. Lydia and her friend McKenzie feel in love with them.

On Saturday we enjoyed a fun time on this great slip and slide.

Lydia was a little nervous about going down the slide, but she enjoyed covering her friends in all the tubes.
Landon, Mason and myself rode horses one evening. This was the boys first time on horse and the first day of the season their horses had done trail rides. It was pretty exciting at the beginning of the ride when Landon's horse decided to turn around and go back to the barn. Landon did great and remembered all the pointers he was given in our instruction video. Both boys told us that was their favorite activity that weekend.

Landon

Happy Birthday Lydia

2009-05-14T00:21:00.001-07:00

Lydia turned 6 on May 11th. To celebrate we planned a Beach theme birthday party. Over the past several years it has always been sunny on her birthday so we thought luck was on our side, unfortunately this year it was a little on the wet side so this beach party was held mostly inside.

However, that didn't seem to phase Lydia, because when it was over she hugged me and said

"I had the time of my life" We played several games. One was musical beach towels. Instead of sitting, the girls had to sun bath when the music stopped.

We also decorated flip flops.

Ate goodies along with a piece of Lydia's flip flop cake.

The sun came out at towards the end of the party so we ended the party outside for a relay race. The girls had to run down with a beach ball and put something on that they would wear at the beach.
Following this the water ballons came out in this 50 degree weather and several of the girls got swim suits on and pretended they were at the beach.

That evening we took the kids to one of our family's favorite birthday dinner restaurants and Lydia ended her meal with this giant piece of chocolate cake. What a day!!!

We sure love this big 6 year old!

Jacob's 2 Year Old Pictures

2009-05-14T00:12:00.000-07:00

Recently we had Jacob's pictures taken.

Being a busy 2 year that he his, I was worried that he wouldn't sit still.

He was wiggly until he was given a football.

Seussical Jr

2009-04-29T14:31:00.001-07:00

April 23rd and 24th was our Elementary School musical, Seussical Jr. After 2 months of practices the kids had a blast performing 3 times on stage for an audience.

Starring:

Mason as Vlad Vladikoff

Landon as Yertle Turtle

Lydia as Lydia Luo Who

Lydia's "do".

Lydia was one of the youngest in the play. She loved every minute of it, and was so sad when it was over. She has become quite the performer.

Below is a video of Lydia in the "Whoville" song.

Landon enjoyed playing the role of Yertle the Turtle.

He had quite the face make-up job.

In Seussical Jr. Yertle the Turtle is a judge. His job is to determine if Horton the Elephant is insane for talking to a speck of dust (the Whos). Landon had a solo in the play. If you watch the clip below you see part of the court scene.

Mason was a great Vald Valcoff.

Vald is part of the jungle in Suessical and he steals Horton's' clover (with the speck). Watch below to see Mason's part (it comes at the end of this song).

Jacob enjoyed Seussical too. He learned all the songs, so he happily posed with Lydia and excepted her flowers.

Easter 2009

2009-04-29T14:24:00.000-07:00

Our family had a wonderful Easter this year.

The kids enjoyed several Easter Egg Hunts on Saturday.

First was the Lakeland HOA Easter Hunt.

The kids always anticipate this hunt it is an annual family event.

It was fun to watch Jacob hunt for eggs this year. He understood picking up the eggs, but not so much putting them in his basket. He would feel his hands with eggs then put them back on the ground to pick up another. Eventually he got the idea with all his coaches (siblings, parents, grandparents) cheering him on

Lydia was the most excited about the hunt. She was so worried the week before about being late.

Even at 10 years old Landon and Mason love to hunt for eggs.

Later in the afternoon we attended our ward's Easter Egg Hunt.

The goods from all the eggs. For our own good it went to work with Zeke on Monday to share with his co-workers.

In anticipation of the Easter Bunny Lydia and Jacob decorated eggs.

On Sunday we enjoyed a nice day at church remembering the true reason we celebrate Easter. Then a nice afternoon at Grandma and Grandpa McKinney's house for another egg hunt and a yummy dinner.

Look who's TWO!

2009-03-29T22:43:00.001-07:00

Jacob turned 2 on Saturday!

Jacob loves Elmo so we had a little Elmo family birthday party for him.

He loved his birthday and all the attention.

Lydia is such a good big sister to Jacob, she became the party planner for his birthday. She planned some games for us to play, decorated the house for his birthday, gave him cards and gifts.
We all love and adore this sweet little boy, and don't know what our life would be without him.

Happy Birthday Jacob!

Pinewood Derby 2009

2009-03-29T21:50:00.000-07:00

The pinewood derby snuck up on us this year. Right after finishing all the science fair projects Zeke and the boys got busy planning for their final pinewood derby as cub scouts. The boys always want to have a theme for their cars. We laughed this year when Landon wanted a doughnut truck. (his dream is to one day be a doughnut maker). After some discussion we decided that a doughnut truck would probably not go very fast and instead he could just decorate his car with his favorite doughnut logo "Krispy Kreme". Mason on the other hand wanted a college team so he picked a Utah State car titled "Big Blue".

Making two pinewood derby cars at once for a dad can be crazy, but Zeke handles it so well and always has a good time doing it with the boys. This year Zeke and the boys decided that a wedge cut car would be the easiest to make and from years past had proved to be pretty fast. The night of the race we showed up a little early to find out that both cars weighed 1oz over the allowed limit. Here Zeke is drilling holes in the bottom to loosen up some of the weight that the boys had put in.

Some of the Webelos before the races. After drilling holes in the bottom of their cars the boys were a little nervous about how they would perform.

Then the races began.

It's always fun when Landon and Mason's cars get to race one another. Here you can see Mason's car on far right and Landon's on the far left. "Big Blue" won the race and "Krispy Kreme" came in 3rd.

"Big Blue" ended up winning all the races it competed in. Mason was ecstatic!

Landon's "Krispy Kreme" did alright. He won two races and came in 2nd or 3rd on the others.

In the end Mason placed 1st overall and his good buddy Caleb placed 2nd. Landon (pictured on the bottom) is such a great sport and was happy for both of them.

Jacob enjoyed a movie in the nursery during the races. It's hard to believe that the next pinewood derby we will participate in will be 6 years from now when Jacob's a cub scout.

Science Fair

2009-03-29T21:15:00.000-07:00

We all had a lot of fun at this year's science fair. Mason wanted to do something with static electricity so he made an electroscope. It was interesting to see which materials created the most static electricity.

Landon took an idea he got from his cousin Kaitlyn and he made a Catapult. He tested how far the bean bag would go when he changed the arm length.

Lydia was one of two Kindergartners to do a science project this year. We were very proud of all her hard work. She tested different colors and what primary colors make up secondary colors using coffee filters and Vis-a-vis pens.

As part of the science fair, they had a Science Olympics Competition. Lydia won 1st place in the Kindergarten and 1st grade group. She had to use nuts and bolts along with a Styrofoam nugget to create an object that would only float in the middle of a jug a water.

Jacob doesn't get science yet, however he understood that the science fair was in a gymnasium and took full advantage of running around or away from us. He did however, take a moment to stop and show his excitement for Lydia's discovery.

National Junior Festival

2009-03-17T20:22:00.000-07:00

For the last 3 years Landon and Mason have participated in the National Junior Festival. This is were they choose from from a list of approved songs to play for a panel of judges. They worked so hard the last several months fine tuning their songs. We all at times got very tired of these songs, but after the Festival we were all so grateful their long practices paid off. Each of them played two songs each. We weren't allowed to video tape during the festival so I had them play their songs again at home so we could remember how great they did. I have included a video of each of them playing one of the songs they choose.

Mason playing "Majestic Mountian" and Landon playing "Slavic Dance"

Quick trip to Texas!

2009-03-05T21:20:00.000-08:00

Last weekend Jacob and I took a quick trip to Texas. My brother Josh lives in Austin with his cute family. We meet Melissa and Kaitlyn there too, and wouldn't you know Melissa and I showed up wearing the same shirt (this has happened to us before), unfortunately I never got a picture us wearing them together.

It was so great to spend time with everyone. The first night we ate on this deck overlooking Lake Travis, and enjoyed this beautiful sunset.

Is it really February?

Taking Jacob on a 5.5 hour plane ride to Texas wasn't the easiest thing I have ever done. But it was worth every second to see how much he loved being with Amelia.

Jacob thought it was so much fun to ride in the back of the car with Amelia. They laughed and carried on their own conversations in their own language.

We spent one day in San Antonio. Being from Seattle we had to see San Antonio's version of the Space Needle called "The Tower of the America's"

It was neat to see San Antonio from so high up. Without the mountains you could see forever!

Up on top there was an inside and an outside. It was very windy outside.

Amelia loved it and wanted to be only outside, she was so funny! Jacob has always shown a fondness for Josh. He liked hanging out with him.

It was a beautiful day to walk the River walk in San Antonio.

It was also neat to see the Texas State Capital.
The University of Texas is a short walk from the Capital so we went and walked around one of top 10 largest universities in the U.S.

The Campus has a neat art piece of hanging yellow noodles. We all had fun walking through it and swinging on the noodles (surgical tubes).

The biggest highlight was meeting Jett. He is my six month old nephew. Isn't he cute?

Double Digets is Double the Fun!

2009-02-02T23:12:00.001-08:00

Landon and Mason turned 10 years old today! They have made the last ten years of our life more meaningful, eventful, crazy at times but so much fun.

We love them and are so grateful they came to us!

Look how far they have come!

Mason a few hours old.

(born 8 weeks early)

Zeke and I with Landon shortly after delivery.

Ten years later! My miracles!!!!

Merry Christmas!!

2008-12-24T10:08:00.001-08:00

I love this.

Remembering the true meaning of Christmas!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=icilgwdHiZg

Cancun, Mexico

2008-12-22T20:54:00.001-08:00

Last May our friend Kirk approached us about going to Mexico in December for his wife's 40th birthday. At the time our family had no idea where we would be living come December. A vacation getaway sounded great and so as soon as we knew where our family would be living we booked the trip. We have been anticipating the trip for 6 months, and had a great time keeping the surprise from our friend Nannette, who knew she was going to Mexico for her birthday, but didn't know so many of her friends would all be coming along.

It was a blast to be down in Mexico with so many friends.

A total of 8 couples were able to come.

The Birthday girl Nannette. I hope I look as great when I am 40!

It was also Brian Tew's 40th birthday.

Besides celebrating Birthdays we had a wonderful time together in Mexico. Here are a few highlights.

Xcaret
Was a beautiful park on the beach.

Xcaret had neat sea life

There was also an underground river where we enjoyed snorkeling.

Under water (myself and Camille). Not the most attractive picture, but pretty cool.
Thanks for all the water pictures Jared and Camille

At the end of the day at Xcaret we went to a spectacular show, about Mexico's history and culture.

Chichen Itza

One day we took a tour bus through a Mayan community and then to Chichen Itza. What an amazing place. Zeke and I were fascinated by all the history there.

A Mayan house.

Playing on the Beach!

Now that we are home in the snow, it's hard to believe we were swimming in the ocean a week ago. The water was wonderful!!! Quite different than the Northwest beaches we are use to.

Thanks to Brad Houser for these great pictures.

All the girls on the beach!

Some of the guys.

Walking on the Beach

One of my favorite activities was taking walks along the beach with Zeke.

Staying at The Cancun Palace

The view from our room.

A very large bed, and a jacuzzi

All inclusive! 5 restaurants to choose from.

Going to Church

This was a big highlight for us. Zeke served his mission in Mexico and it was so fun for him to go back to Mexico. It brought back so many memories for him and I loved seeing him speak to the local people in Spanish, and feel so comfortable in a place that was foreign to me.

Zeke found so many familiar things to him in Mexico. Here he was so happy to find a vendor sell a favorite mission treat.
Swimming with the Dolphins at Isla Mujeres

This was an awesome experience.

Shaking the dolphins fins.

Zeke being pushed by the dolphin.

Dancing with the dolphin.

Soaking in the sun and listening to Christmas Music--Crazy!

Swim bar!

Always wanted to order a lemonade at a bar in the pool

Mexico was wonderful, but the best part was getting away with each other. We haven't had that kind of time together in so long.

Thank you to both sets of Grandparents who took such great care of our kids.

They had so much fun that I don't think they even missed us.

Behind Blogger.......

2008-12-21T09:57:00.001-08:00

Since the beginning of November, it seems as if I haven't had the chance to sit down and blog. There have been many happenings in our family and unfortunately we haven't posted much about any of them. Today we are snowed in, church is canceled and it seems like a perfect day to get caught up. So here is the readers digest version our life the past several weeks.

VETERANS DAY PROGRAM
The boys participated in a Veterans Day program at school. They were also asked to be the color guard for the flag raising. They took this very seriously and were very excited to do this in front of the school.

THANKSGIVING 2008

We had a nice Thanksgiving with my parents this year out on Tapps Island.

Lydia made everyone some Oreo turkeys.

The food is always so yummy at Grandmas

We were visited by Pilgrims and Indians on Thanksgiving

Seattle Christmas Parade

We have enjoyed for several years going into Seattle the day after Thanksgiving for the Christmas Parade. Many of the floats are the same each year, but we still love enjoying the Christmas decorations, songs, and cheer.

After the parade and a little shopping we headed over to the Marriott and met up with our friends the Biddulphs. We swam, ate some dinner and then the kids enjoyed a late pajama party in our hotel room while the adults went to see Twilight.

Thanks Grandma and Grandpa for babysitting.

Seattle Kids Marathon

The Saturday after Thanksgiving is also the Seattle Kids Marathon. This was Landon and Mason's 5th year running, and Lydia's first. They run 25 miles leading up to this day and then they run around the Seattle Center for the final 1.2 mile, completing a marathon. Over 4000 people run, it's crazy but a lot of fun.

Here the kids are with the Biddulph kids before the run.

Christmas Piano Recital

We began the Christmas season with a piano recital.

Mason played the 12 days of Christmas

Landon (Santa) played "Santa Claus is coming to Town"

Seeing Santa Claus

We couldn't expect a lot more from our 1 year old Jacob.
Poor little guy he had to see Santa twice in the same day. Once at our ward Christmas Party (below) and also at our Neighborhood Donuts with Santa (above).
Lydia
Mason
Landon

Goodbye to the Green Car

2008-11-12T06:39:00.000-08:00

Yesterday we sold our car, which has provided us with many memories over the years. Both Stephanie and I can't believe we don't have that car anymore. Its funny how some objects seem to become part of your life.

Stephanie and I bought the car soon after we were married from a used car lot a block away from our apartment in Logan. For a long time it was our family car. As the family grew we got a minivan and the green car became my commuter car for many more years. It was very reliable and efficient. Everything they say about Honda's is true, but at 194K miles it was starting to become a burden and with three cars and a two car garage we knew it was time to give it up.

I was worried it would be difficult to sell because it has some issues and there seem to be hundreds of these for sell. I posted it on craigslist Monday night. Three hours later I had about ten emails asking about it and by morning I had many more. In less than 24 hours it was sold for $1000 cash. Guess I should have asked more for it.

Halloween 2008

2008-11-05T20:50:00.001-08:00

We love Halloween at our house. Here is what the kids were for Halloween.

Cowgirl and her sweet cow!

Once I suggested Jacob should wear the boys odd cow costume, Lydia wanted to be his cowgirl.

We gathered items together for her costume and her Uncle Josh brought her some really cowgirl boots from Texas. (Thanks Josh)

Mason wanted to be Obi-Wan from Star Wars. It's his nick name on our extended family football picks this year so he was insistent on being him. Mason worked really hard with out one complaint so that he could buy this costume.

(I've never been a fan of masks--below is proof he was under that costume)
Mooooo
Our loyal Husky fan Landon wanted to be the UW mascot. We had to get creative. He was a pretty tough dawg, even though some people asked me if he was a mouse.

In the morning before Kindergarten, Lydia had 10 friends over for a little Halloween party. She loved being the hostess and it was fun playing games with some of her friends.
Here are all the kids that came to the party. They all looked great in their costumes.

Our four kids stuck together and went Trick or Treating.

Jacob caught on really quick to what this was all about. He went up to every door babbling way his version of Trick or Treat. At one house all the kids were given Krispy Kreme coupons, my kids were so excited (they love donuts). Jacob was equally excited, he just didn't know what it was, but he did understood it had to be something good. He became very protective of this item.

Fun times in Utah!

2008-11-04T12:49:00.000-08:00

It has a been a week since our family took a trip to Utah (Oct.22-28). Since we never went to Utah this past summer, we were missing family and also wanted to see Utah in October since we hadn't been there during October for 9 years. We squeezed a lot of things into a short trip, but it was a blast!

Our family took a morning flight to SLC. Upon arriving to SLC we went straight to Temple Square where we met up with Grandma Evans. We were happy she could hang out with us that day. Landon and Mason have always been so fascinated with church sites and church history that we knew they would enjoy walking around Temple Square. When we got there they really wanted to take a tour of the Conference Center. We had been in the center before, but had never been on a tour. Since it was in the middle of the week there were plenty of tour guides wanting to show us around.

Jacob discovered his shadow at the Conference Center, it was funny to see him try to loose it. While we were on the tour of the Conference Center, the boys asked our tour guide if he could tell us where President Hinkley was buried. Later that day we went and found the cemetery. What a neat place! There are several Prophets buried there. They give us a map of where they are all buried. It was a really great treasure hunt for my kids.

Along with Hinkleys' grave we found: David O. McKay, John Taylor, Heber J. Grant, and

Spencer W. Kimball (pictured below).

Zeke and the boys also hiked up Ensign Peek that day! What a view! It was a beautiful day!

One day we drove down to Fountain Green, Utah. It is about 2 hours south of SLC. Zeke's sister Trish and her family live there. We had such a nice time seeing them. The kids loved being with their cousins.

Fountain Green is a small town. The Allens live in a great place. The kids had a blast playing on their property. Lots of trees to climb, and roaming chickens. Lydia and her cousin Maddie even found eggs that a hen had layed in a tree.

Jacob enjoyed playing ball with Seth. Seth is a few years older than Jacob, but he's not a whole lot bigger. He was so sweet and patient with Jacob, since Jacob is a ball hog.

On opening day we went to High School Musical 3! My kids saw the other two High School Musicals with their Findlay cousins for the first time, so we were excited that it happen to be released the same time we would be in Utah with them.

Our whole family (Jacob included) went to the show. We were surrounded by other similar families and many screaming girls. We loved the show and the audience made it a lot of fun. Now we hear Landon and Mason sing "The Boys are Back" nonstop.

On Saturday was the USU Homecoming. We headed up to Logan first thing so we could see the parade.

I have been to a lot of parades, but this had to be one of the best. So much free stuff!!! I never remembered getting so many free things in the USU homecoming parade before. The kids stocked up on candy (big bars) and we even got a few shirts. But the best was Zeke was given a half pint of "Aggie ice cream" his all time favorite treat! It was his lucky day!

Proud future Aggies;)

It was also the Homecoming Football game. It had been a long time since we had been to Romney Stadium for a football game. Our lucky day continued when we approached the ticket counter and were paying for our tickets. Someone from a distance yelled "We have extra tickets, don't buy any" I ran over and they gave me 5 free tickets. Yahoo!!!

The game was very close in fact the Aggies were winning the majority of the time. With 2 seconds left, Fresno State kicked a 59 yard field goal, leaving the Aggies down by 2. It was a heart breaker, but we were happy they at least made a great showing.

Our kids loved hanging out right down by the end zone.

After the game we went and saw my Grandparents. They are amazing! We loved seeing them.

My grandpa taught himself to play the organ several years ago. He has played songs for my boys since they were babies. Mason and Landon were excited when they learned one of his favorites "Oh when the Saints.." and wanted to play if for him on his organ.

Let's just say Mason (playing below) rocked the house!!

Then Grandpa played and of course they all danced. It's just that they are so much bigger now!!

We went to a saurkrawt dinner with my Grandparents, my aunts: Jo Ann, Kristie, Louise and Uncle Richard. It was yummy! We enjoyed some fall activities at the dinner as well.

We enjoyed Logan's Pumpkin Walk as well that evening.

The theme was "Everyday Hero's".

Families decorate displays out of pumpkins for the community to walk around and see. This was one of my favorites: Noah's Ark.

At the end we had fun putting the kids faces though these statues.

On our last day in Utah we went to Gil Gard Gardens in Salt Lake, the Beehive House and the church office building. We spent time with several of Zeke's siblings and enjoyed every minute. Unfortunately,we didn't take many pictures of adults.

Pumpkin Patch

2008-10-12T22:33:00.000-07:00

After 2 soccer games, family pictures and chores around the house our family headed over to a local pumpkin patch for some fall festivities. It was a beautiful Saturday, so the pumpkin patches were busy, but they still had plenty of pumpkins.

We loved this little pumpkin house, it was so cute.

Jacob thought every pumpkin was a seat.

Lydia was excited to find the really big pumpkins.

Gaint spiders decorate this pumpkin patch.

We found some pumpkins but didn't have a wheelbarrow, by the time we left the patch, Zeke was pretty dirty from carrying all the pumpkins.

We can always count on silly pictures from the boys.

We did see a few animals, but the kids had more fun sitting on this cow and acting like animals.

Grandma and Grandpa McKinney came with us and we had fun with them. Especially when we raced ducks down these rain gutters.

After finally getting a wheel barrow, we were off with our pumpkins.

Look who goes to Nursery......

2008-09-30T23:15:00.000-07:00

It's official Jacob is 18 months old and can attend Nursery during church. The nursery teachers let him sneak in a few weeks early, and he seems to enjoy attending. This is great for his parents who were getting weary of wrestling him during the final 1.5 hours of church each Sunday.

Alicia Keys

2008-09-30T22:10:00.000-07:00

I have spent many birthdays with my close friend Holly. We met in the 1st grade and have enjoyed each other's birthday celebrations for almost 30 years (we love birthdays so much that when we were children we even celebrated our dog's birthdays). This year we were treated to a special treat from her husbands banker. Holly's husband, Travis was given 3 tickets to the Alicia Keys concert and backstage passes. It was so fun for Holly, Brooke and myself to go as ourselves and feel like teenagers again.

We had premium parking that took us through a back door, where we found a buffet of great food and drinks. Even though we had already eatten dinner that didn't stop us from enjoying the spread. It was an awesome way to attend a concert.

Alicia Keys is very talented, and puts on a great concert. Here is a little clip to enjoy.... (I would have filmed the whole song, but it was hard not to want to dance while holding the camera)

Thanks girls for a great night... Happy Birthday Holly!!

Back to School

2008-09-05T13:35:00.001-07:00

The kids started school this week. They were all excited to head back, however we all agreed summer went way to fast. This year I have three in school. They are getting bigger, but they are still my babies. I'm glad they each like school and that they look out for each other while they are there.

On the Friday before school started we found out Landon and Mason weren't going to continue in a 3/4 split class. Instead they would move up to a 4/5 split class. This change brought on a new teacher for them, one who typically teaches 5th grade. All of the sudden they seem like thea big kids on campus. Where did the time go?

Here Mason has found his desk.

Landon was excited to find his desk next to a good friend from last year.

The boys were also asked to be "greeters" this year. It is a program at our school, where a group of students greet fellow students and parents each morning and after school. Landon and Mason love this kind of stuff. Their spot is the front of the school. On the first day I went along with them. I had to keep reminding them that they didn't need to have a long conversation with each person that came by. They are funny boys with always something to talk about.

Below is Landon greeting.

Landon doing a back to school pose.

Lydia has been counting the days until she would start school. She was all smiles on the first day of school. We are excited for her, but we hate to see her grow up so fast.

We have a little in with one of the Kindergarten teachers at the school. She happens to be Grandma! It's nice to know Grandma is just down the hall from Lydia, and that she can keep tabs on her. Lydia's teacher Miss. Karow was mentored by Grandma last year.

We live by several kids that are going to Kindergarten this year. So catching the bus with some of Lydia's friends is so much fun.

There she goes. How fun it is to be 5!I was one of those funny moms that went to the school to see her get off the bus.

Lydia's in a large class this year with 2 times as many boys than girls. I took this picture and realized I didn't have one girl in it. I don't think she will notice the small number of girls in her class, she is pretty use to boys.

Finally, I'll let her go.

Last Few Weeks of Summer

2008-09-02T21:57:00.000-07:00

School starts tomorrow morning and we all have mixed feelings about starting up again. It has been a great summer and we have enjoyed spending time together as a family. Here is how we have been spending our last few weeks.

A few weeks ago we took a ferry ride from Edmonds to Kingston. This particular Saturday was very warm so the cool breeze on the Sound felt heavenly.

Zeke had a Birthday!!!

He even had a Chocolate Zucchini Cake for his birthday cake.

We finished up our last session of swimming lessons. All three of the kids improved their skills. The boys got their side breathing down and Lydia swam the length of the pool all by herself. It was very exciting!

We spent time at Lake Tapps. My parents live on a small island on a lake, and we love spending time with them on the lake.

They have a nice neighbor that lets us borrow her paddle boat and kayaks. The boys particularly love the paddle boat.
For Labor Day Weekend we went to Cannon Beach, Oregon with the Beaird Family. We had a relaxing weekend playing with them and enjoying the beauty of the Oregon coast.

Jacob loves to play outside. The beach was heaven to him. The Dads and older boys played football on the beach most of the time.

They are all crazy about football!
The weather was perfect for kite flying. We just wished the breeze was a little warmer.
Landon is always up for a pose. He's pretty proud of this one.

The kids seemed to not notice how cold the water was.

When the tide is low, it's fun to get up close and personal with the fish wildlife.
Cannon Beach is one of my favorite places to go.
One day we went into Seaside. What a crazy group.

To celebrate our official last day of summer (Tuesday) we went to the Zoo with the Hatch family. Most schools in Seattle start on the Tuesday after Labor Day, however our district doesn't start until Wednesday. So it's the perfect no crowd day to go to the Zoo.

The weather was perfect and the animals were very entertaining.
We love the Woodland Park Zoo. They are always adding new stuff. This year it was the Pink Flamingo exhibit. We learned an interesting fact about the Flamingos. The reason they are pink is because they eat so much shrimp. Isn't that crazy!

Sleeping Out

2008-08-18T07:11:00.000-07:00

The kids were excited to sleep outside on the trampoline for the first time. It was the perfect summer night.

After settling into bed, I questioned if they had brushed their teeth. With all the excitement, they hadn't (surprise, surprise). Moments later I hear the squeals of excitement "the tooth fairy is coming tonight". Lyida had brushed so hard, she lost her first tooth. Would the tooth fairy find her tooth on the trampoline, or would it bounce off?
Sure enough the tooth fairy found Lydia's tooth under her pillow.

Lydia's proud of her new toothless grin and mom is sad she is losing teeth so early.

Summer Fun!

2008-07-31T07:24:00.000-07:00

It has been a great summer thus far.

We began the summer by celebrating our 11th wedding anniversary. It was a perfect night on Alki Beach in Seattle. A great way to spend an evening together.

We ate seafood at Saltys and then walked along the shore, and enjoyed the sunset and city lights.

We also began the summer by putting our swingset on Craigslist. In just a few hours we had over 40 offers. We ended up selling it to a foster care family.

The kids enjoyed a few final ours on it before we said good bye.

Then we replaced it with a trampoline. Wohooo!

The boys spent a week going to Cub Day camp. Our den does a 4 day camp 7 hours each day. I went one of the 4 days. It was fun to spend the day with Landon and Mason, they love cub scouts! Here they are panning for gold at one of the many fun stations.

During Cub Day Camp Lydia participate in a Gymnastics Camp with a few friends. She had a great time, and I was able to get a few things done for girls camp.

It was also time for Jacob's first hair cut. He's hair seemed to have grown over night, and we were getting worried that he was starting to look like a little girl. So I splurged and took him to a "Kids Cut" salon. I never did this with my other children, but he's my baby. He was a little nervous getting his hair cut, but overall did fine.

It was a baby make over:

BEFORE

AFTER

Landon and Mason got their hair cut right before at HairMasters.

Don't they all look great?

We have also spent a lot of time at the lake this summer. The kids love jumping off the dock as much as they do swimming in the pool. However, Jacob started the summer not so sure about any of it.

The Findlays came to town for a week. The cousins can not get enough of each other. They spent the majority of the time in swimming suits together either playing at the lake, or pool. This year we also spent a day at Wild Waves.

The big kids love to always have a lemonade stand. Since my parents live on a golf course, they do well. This year I think they made around $25, in a few hours. They think they should do it everyday.
Lydia and Jack gave up life jackets together and became really good swimmers.

They spent hours swimming together.

Lydia loved being thrown by either her dad, Uncle Chris or Grandpa.

After being the spectator to all the swimming Jacob, got into the action.

He now loves the water!

Last week was girls camp. I am the Stake Girls Camp Director. This was my second year being the director and things went very well. It's great to go and see all the work you have put in over the past year, come together. My parents and a few friends helped me out with my kids while I was gone. It's amazing how much work and sacrifice goes into a week like this, but it is so good for those Young Women (and the leaders have a little fun as well).

My least favorite thing about being the director is coming up with a Stake Skit. We have a new stake YW president that is creative and she threw together a skit. We practiced right before and wouldn't you know, it was a hit. I went completely out of character (it's okay when you are a camp) and pretty much acted like a child (I had a little inspiration from a few of my own children) and played the role of Miss Whimper and Wine.

Let just say I think I shocked a few...
The day after camp was our nieghborhood social. It's a kid heaven! All you can eat cotton candy, and popcorn. A few boucing rides and a dunk tank.

We were suprised when Mason and Landon appeared in the dunking tank.

However we were SHOCKED when Lydia got up. And guess who throw her in?

LANDON!

One major milestone this summer was Jacob started to walk! He was a late walker, and we were starting to wonder about his stubborness, but on his 15 month birthday, he realized it wasn't so bad. Now our sweet boy is EVERYWHERE!

Where do we begin?

2008-06-17T20:52:00.000-07:00

It's no secret that it's been awhile since we have posted anything. These last few months have been crazy for our family. We have been up to many things these last several weeks. There have been several activities especially with school coming to an end. Zeke has been traveling back and forth to Utah working for Quest while I have been at home keeping up with the kids and trying to keep a clean home to show at a moments notice (with a 1 year old). With all this going on something had to give and unfortunatly blogging was what had to be cut out for awhile. But now we return and hopefully we'll be able keep this site updated occasionally.

For those that haven't heard, last week our family decided to shut down the "moving business" (quoted by our kids). We have been faced with many decisions during this whole process. I could try and explain all that has happened but honestly, I don't even know if I could possibly make any sense. In the end Zeke decided to take an offer to go back to his former job in Bellvue, where he works on a committee researching the Microsoft/ Real Networks Anti-trust lawsuit.

There were so many things our family looked forwarded to in Utah, yet at the same time we were sad about leaving Washington. We could be talked into either place and at times felt like it was impossible to make a choice. Maybe in the end it was the losy housing market that determined our decision.

This has been a very emotional and stressful time in our family but overall we have felt the lord bless our lives and teach us a few lessons along the way. We don't quite know what the future holds for our family but for now our family is looking forward to having quiet relaxing summer.

So here are some highlights from the last 5 weeks.

(They all really deserve there own post)

School Play:

JUNGLE BOOK

May 17th 2008

Staring: Landon Evans as an Elephant

Also starring: Mason Evans as an Elephant

The school play this year was really cute. Each song was coriographed and the costumes were so cute.

Science Fair
May 30th 2008

Having two science experiments at the same time was some what crazy, but we managed to get them done and the boys had great time they can't wait until next year.

Landon's experiment tested the power of yeast. He made three types of bread with variable amounts of yeast.

Mason choose the power of air in a bounce and he recorded how high a ball would bounce with varible amounts of air.

Memorial Weekend Camping Trip

May 2008

Carnation, WA

How can you not love to camp with scenery like this?

For several years our family has gone camping over Memorial Weekend. The Tolt river in Carnation, WA is one of our favorate places to camp. Over the years many other family friends have joined us making it a annual tradition for all.

Mason enjoyed telling ghost stories around the campfire.

On Saturday we spent the day at Remlinger. It's a country fair park that is perfect for families and young children. Landon and Mason are slowly growing out of it, however they have such fond memories of going for many years they still loved it.

The weather was perfect and the lines were short, so the kids rode this roller coaster close to 20 times. I love seeing my kids have so much fun.

We took a few rides on the trian as well.
Pure Joy!

Jacob was a great camper.

These are just some of the kids that camped with us.

Fun times!!

Uncle Josh McKinney

Josh and his family were here last week. It was great to see them. Jacob took right to Josh. In fact he pushed me away right before I took this picture. Josh has the touch!!

Sound to Narrows 12K

June 14th 2008

My good friend Holly talked me into running a 12K with her. I have to admit I was not very excited about running a 12K. All I had ever heard about this race is how hilly it is. I tried to talk her into the 5K portion of the race, but to no avail we signed up for the 12K. In the end, it was great, and I was glad Holly pushed me to do it. The race runs through Point Definance Park along the sound. It was beautiful! I hope to do it again next year. Later, that afternoon we met a man in Safeway, who said this was his 36th year running the race, WOW!

He had to be at least 70.

Jacob participated in the diaper dash, crawling race. He's kind of lazy when it comes to walking.

Go Jacob!!!
Landon, Mason and Lydia ran the Junior Shuffle 2K. This was Lydia's first race, and we were so proud of her, she ran the whole time smiling. Each of them recieved a medal when they finished, and also a loaf of bread.

My favorite Mother's day present ever!!

2008-05-14T20:58:00.000-07:00

Ever since I became a Mom, I have loved Mother's day. However, one Mother's day is unforgettable. Five years ago on Mother's day, Lydia was born. She has been the best Mother's day present ever! This year, it was her birthday on Mother's day. I was happy to share my day with my sweet little girl, who has been such a joy to our family. It was fun to have her join me for breakfast in bed on Sunday morning, she thought that was pretty neat also.

Happy 5th birthday Lydia!

This year Lydia wanted a Ballerina Party.

She had been waiting all year for her birthday.

Her party was the Friday before her birthday, at 4pm. It was a long day waiting for all her friends to arrive.

Then they came and the dancing fun began!

One of the games was a Freeze Dance

Ballerina Favors

Ballerina Slipper Cake

On Sunday she blew out candles again on 1/2 the cake. She had a heck of a time blowing them out, which made us all laugh. She told me later that her wish was just have a happy birthday.
I'm pretty sure her wish came true.

Spring Weekend!

2008-04-27T21:34:00.000-07:00

Spring has sprung and I love it!! Last Friday, my mom and I took Lydia and Jacob up to Skagit Valley, Washington for their annual tulip festival. It is such a beautiful valley especially in April!

One stop was made to Tulip Town were there are rows and rows of beautiful flowers.

Lydia shares my love for tulips, she enjoyed seeing them as much as I did!

Heaven!!!

Rosengarde, was another stop we made. Jacob enjoyed himself as well. Last year when we visited the tulip festival, he was only a few weeks old. This year he let out many shouts of joy.

We were happy Grandma came with us, it was a lot of fun. We even stopped by a favorite bakery in La Conner for a yummy lunch and treat.
What is Lydias's favorite tulip? (Pink of course)

Saturday was the Husky Experience. An hour before the Spring Scrimmage, the field is open to Husky kids. The boys and Zeke went last year and had a blast, so they were very excited about it this year. They got a free tshirt and a free lunch and an hour playing football on the field with the football players.

Zeke signed Lydia up this year as well. She gave him the funnest look the day before, when he told her she was invited. It wasn't quite her thing but she had fun being with the family.
Go Huskies!

It got a little more exciting for her when the Angels came onto the field advertising for Cirque Du Soleil

It was such a beautiful day that after the game we went on a walk around the University of Washington Campus. It was fun for Zeke to show the boys were he had some of his graduate classes. The boys were amazed that the UW has 17 libraries.

There were many of these beautiful blossom trees on campus, we couldn't resist getting some pictures of the kids in them.

Lydia

Mason

Landon

Our baby is ONE!

2008-03-30T08:44:00.001-07:00

Last Friday was Jacob's first birthday. This last year went so fast, yet we feel like Jacob has been part of our life forever. We can't believe he is entering the toddler stage because he is still our little baby boy!

To celebrate we had a small gathering with Grandma and Grandpa McKinney. Jacob understood that it was a party, I just don't think he understood it was all about him.

Of course the cake is a big part of a first birthday, so for Jacob I made a small cake that was a replica of his favorite toy, a small soft ball. For the rest of us we had cupcakes with pictures of Jacob on them.

The older kids enjoyed Jacob's small party, probably more than he did.

"So what are you giving me here"

"I don't think I want it"

"I guess I'll eat it"

Jacob didn't exactly dive into the cake like we thought he would. In fact he shuttered with each bite, which was exactly how Landon and Mason were on their first birthday.

Old man winter gave Jacob a snow shower on his birthday.

And we thought spring had begun!

Lifetime Friends!

2008-03-16T21:48:00.001-07:00

What am I to do.... silly, laughing boys around the clock? There are not too many moments at our house where Landon and Mason are not laughing hysterically at each other. They think the other is completely hilarious (uh?). It has become somewhat of an annoyance to me and I am afraid to say that I have been quoted to say "No more laughing!". (And I even have a sign above my stove that reads "Live well, Laugh Often, Love More"). I decided today that I guess the silliness and laughing is better than fighting, arguing, and crying. So I guess the next time I hear Landon tell Mason he's hilarious while belly aching on the floor, I'll be grateful they truly love and enjoy each other.

Recently I had the boys pictures taken by my favorite photographer. Of course they had a blast being themselves. But I think she really captured how great of friends they are to each other.

1. So maybe I won't make this one into a 16x20 print for my wall, but it is totally them, that it will be printed in some form.

As far as lifetime friends for me, last Sunday I was visited by two friends I had while growing up in Auburn. Bekha was visiting Auburn from Utah, and Jubilyn lives about 30 minutes away. I get to see Jubilyn along with other former Auburnites fairly often and it is always so good to visit with them and reminis about then and now times in our lives. However, it had been along time since I had seen Bekha. She is an amazing person with unbelievable strength. We talked for several hours, it was so good to catch up. Bekha also gave me some more insight into Utah County because she live there!

In my life book, friends are for a lifetime!

Update!

2008-03-02T22:07:00.000-08:00

Well it has been exactly a month since our last post. What a month it has been at our house. Many of you have heard we are in the process of moving. It as been a roller coaster month at our house as we try to get thing in order before the big change. Amidst the stress we are trying to keep some normality among the kids.

Here are a few updates:

First, our sweet baby boy is 11 months. It is so hard to believe he is almost 1 year.

Lydia has been taking dance this year, she loves it. In this dance class she get to do Tap, Ballet, and Gymnastics- it's so great!

Landon and Mason are living up to being 9. They are sillier more often than not.

Last Friday was hat day at school. I thought for sure they would be excited to wear their Husky , or Mariner hats. Oh no, Landon wore his baker hat and Mason wore an Uncle Sam's hat (and quoted to everyone "I want you for the Lakeland Hills Wildcats") One thing I love about these boys are: they are never embarrassed to be different, and they thrive on uniqueness.