The Glover Family

Be Prepared

2011-01-10T21:33:00.000-08:00

We had an emergency drill for FHE evening tonight. We asked the kids to grab whatever they thought they would need for the next 3 days and meet us in the car in 2 minutes! Gracie grabbed her BIG stuffed animal, a barbie and matching purse. Ryal grabbed a movie and the DVD player. I'm not sure we are finished with that lesson...

I was on Bill O' Reilly!

2011-01-07T22:12:00.000-08:00

Yep...I'm famous! Friday, 1/7/11, I was on the air. Well my letter was, with my little blurb about abortion being selfish, because I believe it is.

Awesome moment of fame! I LOVE Bill O'Reilly! And apparently, he loves me back!!!

TNT FIREWORKS

2010-12-30T23:12:00.000-08:00

Hey guys! Our family is running a fireworks stand on the SW Corner of Lindsay and Broadway in the Fry's Parking lot! Come support our fundraiser! Open New Year's Eve from 10am-midnight! Thanks!!!

Disneyland Vacation for Cinderella Royalty

2010-12-12T16:57:00.000-08:00

Gracie's 5th B-day!

2010-12-12T16:41:00.001-08:00

We rented a mechanical bull!

It was a HIT!

She got everything she wanted

All the cow folk guests

She's 5 years old!!!

Glover Family 2010

2010-12-05T11:53:00.000-08:00

GRACIE WINS TOP FIRST PLACE FOR HER CAN CAN ROUTINE IN THE 4 & UNDER DIVISION AT KAR DANCE COMPETITION!

2010-11-27T14:18:00.001-08:00

VERY proud of my little CAN CAN girl!

These little GIRLS!

2010-08-22T11:32:00.000-07:00

Harlee still won't eat solid foods, but she loves to just sit in her chair and play

Getting ready for church is always a fun project for me

Matching dresses make me smile...Kaylee matches us sometimes too, but she isn't usually very happy out it! LOL Notice there are not any pictures of her.

PJ Fashion Show!

Harlee LOVES her Daddy! This was her enjoying the cool CA weather in July

GLOVER GIRLS

Harlee (7mths.) & Gracie (4 yrs.)

Growing so fast!!!

COUSINS!!!

2010-08-15T12:34:00.000-07:00

Kate Joy Campbell & Harlee Joy Glover

Only 2 weeks apart in age

Got to know eachother better this summer

by pulling hair and drinking eachothers bottles

They traveled to California and visited together in Arizona...CUTE COUSINS! Can't wait until Christmas!!!!!!

This Month's Family Theme...

2010-08-08T14:30:00.000-07:00

BE COURAGEOUS!!!!

A follow up article

2010-07-29T11:07:00.000-07:00

Kaylee is in the East Valley Tribune today!

2010-07-21T06:31:00.000-07:00

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Harlee's Blessing Photos

2010-07-18T11:23:00.000-07:00

Harlee was blessed in the LDS Kimball Stake Center by her daddy. We had these pictures taken when she was 3 months old!

Precious Memories!

They grow so quickly!

Arizona State Cinderella Finals 2010

2010-06-28T00:10:00.000-07:00

On our way...

Frist night there...Gracie wins Charm Girl!

Gracie, Sydnee & Kaylee

Orientation Morning

My East Valley MOMS!

First Day of Competition-Interview

Prince Gilbert Party

Goody Bags!

Western Hoe Down

Kaylee, Mom & Gracie

Welcome Banquet

Emma & Gracie

Tot Fun Coloring Party

Kaylee, Danielle & Emma

Casualwear Presentations

Awards Breakfast

(Gracie won Miss Manners...what?!?)

Kaylee was crowned the Arizona State Cinderella Ambassador!

She gets to represent the State of Arizona! What a great year we will have!

We had great luck at the Arizona State Finals this year. My girls LOVE wearing crowns, however, this program is not about crowns, trophies or glam. It is about making new friends, developing your talent and self-esteem, and doing better every year. We are grateful that Kaylee will have this wonderful opportunity this year, to travel around and meet new people, and continue to develop her talent. This year was our favorite ever because of the awesome East Valley group that we brought to the State Finals. Being a Director has blessed my life as I have so many new friendships. We had a blast and love you all! Looking forward to 2010-2011!!!

2010-2011 Arizona State Cinderella Royalty

Tot-Cassilyn Hernandez

Mini-Miss-Katherine Dahl

Miss-Alyssa Penney

Teen-Danielle Bracamonte

Woman-D'adra Sites

Ambassador-Kaylee Glover

International Mini-Miss (2009-2010)-Madison Curtis

Baby Hale arrived May 24th, 2010

2010-05-25T11:44:00.000-07:00

Luke Bauer Hale

arrived at 11:28am! He was 8lbs. 4oz. and 22 inches long!

Ahhh...Noah loves Luke!

TJ is really a Daddy!
Ryal loves Luke too!

And what would one of my posts be without pictures of Gracie?

Gracie's new thing is..."I'm a Fashion Girl!"

Harlee is NOT a "Fashion Girl"

But Gracie is obsessed with posing for the camera

This is her new princess swimming suit

Yes! We did a swimwear photo shoot! LOL

She told me later that she was modeling her HAIR!

BE OBEDIENT

2010-05-03T22:48:00.000-07:00

New Theme of the Month:

Tonight we made cookies. Team A: Ryal & Gracie, followed the instructions the way they wanted to and put way too much of everything in their cookies.

Team B: Kaylee, Ethan & Noah, followed the instructions perfectly. We baked both, I made the kids try both, and we talked about being "perfectly" Obedient and following directions.

Easter Basket clothes

What would I do if I didn't have this girl to dress up everyday?!?

Saturday, April 24th, our studio competed in the ENCORE Dance Competition!

Kaylee's solo: ALWAYS

Gracie's solo: JUMP IN LINE

My PERFORMANCE Cloggers: Cliffs of Dover

I teach the Mini's this year: BABY JUNE

Our Junior Divas took 1st place Overall in their Divison for Cha Cha Heels, and 5th place Overall in their Division for Newsies

BOLLYWOOD

Elite Company (Kaylee's Company)

Thank you Eleanor for Harlee's new dress!

And this past Saturday, I put on a Cinderella pageant...39 girls!

This is our new East Valley Cinderella Royalty for 2010-2011.

Cinderella Tot-Amy Dubin

Cinderella Mini-Miss-Sydnee Coddington

Cinderella Miss-Delaney Buck

Cinderella Teen-Danielle Urness

A new month

2010-04-11T23:20:00.000-07:00

The Glover's have started a new tradition in our home! Our family now has a monthly theme which is the center of our Family Home Evening for the month. April's theme has been,

"BE HONEST".

I had the idea to make a darling decorative poster, but then 4:30pm came, and this is what they got! I let them glue gems and stones all over it, it did the job!

It hangs on an open wall in the middle of our home.

The kids took strips of paper and wrote sayings and drew pictures that reminded them to

BE HONEST.

Then we taped those strips all over the house. And every Monday this month has been a new lesson on Honesty.

It's worked, Gracie is definately "more" Honest in April.

Easter was great...lots of fun parties!

Ms. Christina, Gracie's preschool teacher, put on an awesome Easter party! Noah got to come too!

Egg Hunt, bounce house, egg coloring, cookie decorating, face painting, it was fun!

Then we had our Ward Easter Egg Hunt, (the same day as my studio peformance for a nursing home and opening day baseball games for both Ethan & Ryal...save for another post)

And what would one of my posts be without a posed picture from Gracie?

She looks like a princess, but let me give you some of her funniest moments this week:

1. (up the stairs crying), "Mom! Ryal kicked me in the NUTS!"

2. ( as Noah whines) "Mom, I have to hold Noah because he has an allergic."

3. (being bossy as always) "Noah! Shhh! You have to be quiet because the pretend Jesus is sleeping." (she's referring to the picture of Jesus)

4. ( as I was doing her hair, she brought in the scriptures and pretended to read along with her finger) " And God will do, and even shall them, We are family, and all should find joy, and if you don't, I don't care, I'll pull down your underwear!"

She's crazy folks!

SPRING BREAK...

2010-03-24T23:57:00.000-07:00

there was a lot of treat-making going on

and a lot of house cleaning going on

and a lot of loving on this little girl!

My mom made Gracie a St. Patrick's Day wand, and taught the kids how to pinch eachother for not wearing green, Noah loved that!

All of the kids got to decorate their own shirt

Ethan made an Arizona Cardinals shirt...he was pretty proud! (you should see the back)

Dressed up Harlee everyday

new suits for the boys

I'm a little over the top, I know

Freestone Park

Kaylee hung out under the broken umbrella

Way too cool...

Suns vs. Utah

Suns won!!!

COTTON CANDY

awesome

Noah, upset that he can't play baseball with the BIG BOYS

Ryal at the tee

Sisters

Harlee Girl!

NO MORE PICTURES!!!

Our Weekend!

2010-03-09T08:32:00.000-08:00

Everything revolves around this little girl!

And these two also...

Gracie gave up her crown as the Ahwatukee Cinderella Tot!

(Kaylee was a scoresheet contestant)

Madison Curtis, Kaylee & Ashley Hancock

2009-2010 Ahwatukee Royalty

Gracie & Ashley

Sportswear-Matching Royalty shirts!

Katie, Mariah, Ashley, Kaylee, Brittany & Gracie

Gracie danced her solo for the very first time...Jump in Line!

And had memorized farewell speech which she executed perfectly!

" Good Luck to ALL the girls...You're ALL Winners!"

Crowning the new winner...

Then on Sunday we blessed Harlee Joy at church...thanks to all for coming!

So precious...love her to pieces!

2010-03-04T20:27:00.000-08:00

Hooray!...It's time for Spring Dresses!!!

The Dress Lady (DeAnne) is coming from California again with designer dresses for sale, Infant-girls sz 14. It's a Come and Go sale!

Wednesday, March 10th,

9:00-11:30am

In front of the Glover Home

(contact me for address or directions @ jheriglover@cox.net )

The dresses are absolutely gorgeous and most are machine washable!

Very affordable, between $20-$37,

retail in stores for $60 or more!

Just in time for Easter and Spring!

There's even going to be a sale rack!

Bring your friends, family and neighbors, EVERYONE is invited!!!

Glover Update

2010-02-21T12:46:00.000-08:00

I definately have not kept up with my blog, so here are some highlights over the past couple of months..

Kaylee turned 14 in November and got a cell phone! She is pro-texter now!!!

Gracie turned 4 in December!

She had a Pretty Princess Make-over party. Grandma came over and helped make crown hats for all of the girls!

Tricia and Holli were in town, and did hair and make-up for 20 girls...along with Julie, thank Jules :) This is our cousin Lilly, who was also in town for Thanksgiving!

We played Musical Chairs, which I discovered is only fun for the one girl who wins.

We also made jewelry and had a runway fashion show at the end for the parents.

My dance studio participated in the Chandler of Lights Parade, that was SUPER fun!

The boys got to ride with us too!

We held Christmas in-class ballet recitals

This is Gracie and her BFF, Evie Bowden

We have the VERY BEST ballet teacher, Nadja Langenhorst..Love her!

We also held a wonderful Higher Ground Christmas Recital at Brimhall Jr. High School

Gracie was able to dance with some of the Mini Co. girls at the Christian Dance performance, "Let There Be Praise"

She also had a solo in "Consider the Lillies", which is my favorite number!

She did such a great job and it was so incredible to see her up on that HUGE MHS stage, all by herself, performing a little solo.

Gracie, Madeline, Madison, Calli & her mom, Candice

Calli choreographed the number and did a fabulous job! It was very touching.

So...you say it's your BIRTHDAY!!!!

NA-NA-NA-NA-NA-NA-NA!

Gettin' old Holli!

Temple lights...a must at Christmas time!

Ride on dad's shoulders...a must if there is walking involved!

We did all the typical family party stuff, fun as always.

The fave for the kids was the trip to BOUNCE U

Then home for our own family traditions...and wrapping of presents ALL NIGHT LONG!

Christmas Day was lots of fun, the highlight was the motorized scooters to ride around the neighborhood! (not pictured)

Noah played and played until he ran out of gas...but he would NOT take off his CARS PJ's!

Kaylee had a great year as the Queen Creek Cinderella Teen for 2008-2009. She gave up her crown at Emily Wright's pageant in early January.

Gracie participated in scoresheet and did great!

Notice Kaylee's phone in her hand.

She was texting on every break in the dressing room.

Lots of fun!

Then at the end of the month, Gracie's Ahwatukee Royalty got together for a bowling party.
(Scott had to take her to the girl party, as I had just come home from the hospital. He was a good sport, and even took pictures of the girls)

Gracie is the 2008-2009 Ahwatukee Cinderella Tot

Valentine's Day was a hit at the Glover Home

This year, Scott & I made it all about the kids. We rented movies, made treats, ate Cheesecake Factory and homemade fondue, put up the Chocolate Fountain...it was fun to have a 3 day weekend at home with the fam :)

And finally, the boys are almost finished with this season of Football. Scott has been a good sport and jumped in to help coach, even though his plans were to sit out this time. The boys love him being on the field with them and they've had a lot of fun! Their team is the Ravens and they play their last tournament next week.

That's us! And a new baby of course. Life doesn't slow down, so we just try to enjoy every busy moment. It's hard to believe we are a family of 8 now. I LOVE being a mother! Nothing better in life :)

Harlee Joy

2010-02-20T23:01:00.000-08:00

Brand-new, so amazing!

I've taken a million pictures...these are some of my favorites!

She is pink, pink, pink all the time!

My little Valentine baby!

We used to think that she looked like Ryal, but now she is looking a lot like Ethan :)

I love this one...

Scott always buys the girls flowers on Valentine's Day, and he set this tulip, (my favorite flower), in Harlee's bassinet while she was sleeping on Valentine's morning. (She was wearing her Valentine PJ's of course!)

Pink, pink, pink! Love it!!!

Harlee does not have a nursery, she is set up in our room, which I LOVE!

(we bought this crib for Ethan...5 kids later, still works great!)

Daddy's little Diva!

As Gracie says, "Ohh...Her so cute!"

Harlee Joy Glover

2010-02-04T21:03:00.000-08:00

Born Wednesday, January 27th at 3:03am.

6lbs. 8oz. 20 inches

Welcome Kate Campbell!

2010-01-12T20:56:00.000-08:00

Born 01/10/10 @ 10:40am

7 lbs. 5oz. 20 inches

Congratulations Tricia & Chase!!!

Gracie Gallery

2009-12-11T21:24:00.000-08:00

Ready for school

STUDENT OF THE WEEK

Dancing Princess Gracie

Birthday Princess Gracie

Ballet recital with Ms. Whitney

Parade rehearsal with the BIG girls!

Ballet recital with Ms. Michelle

She runs the house!

HALLOWEEN

2009-12-11T21:08:00.000-08:00

So my brother definately came over dressed up as Edward Cullen for Halloween. Ladies, what do you think? Does he have it?

His wife Tressa came as a Pirate. She didn't fit really well into the Cullen family picture...

Ethan-Wolverine
6 yrs.

Ryal-Bumblebee
5 yrs.

Gracie-An Etsy witch!

3 yrs.

Noah-Spongebob

2 yrs.

(Yep! He had to wear girl tights!)

Glover Gang-ready to

Trick-or-Treat!

(Kaylee was in the Haunted House across the street)

Simple Blessings in my life this week!

2009-11-06T12:38:00.000-08:00

* A friend picked up some of my laundry and did it for me

* In the early morning, (before it was time to get up), my 2 year old snuggled with me

* Pizza for dinner!

* A LOVE letter from one of my little dancer's

* My husband cleaned the kitchen after dinner

* Heard the baby's heart beat

* Talked to grandma on the phone

* A friend took my daughter for a playdate

* Went Christmas shopping

* My daughter called me cute,
(which made up for the day before when she called me FAT)

* Got a late Sunday nap

* Watched my daughter say the prayer in Primary

* A hot shower...alone! (no kids)

* Hot apple pie & ice cream

* The OFFICE

* Had a dress party

* Made it to the weekend!

Dress & Jean Party!!!!

2009-11-01T11:04:00.000-08:00

It's that time of year...The Dress Lady is coming into town from CA, bringing with her gorgeous dresses from Infant sizes up to size girls 14 (with 2 piece sets for older girls as well). It's the perfect chance to get matching dresses for your girls or simply pick out a fabulous dress for Christmas for your daughter, granddaughter, baby gift, flower girl, etc.

EVERYONE IS WELCOME, SO FEEL FREE TO SPREAD THE WORD AND BRING FAMILY AND FRIENDS.

***And for the first time ever...she will also be bringing 4 styles of Women's True Religion Jeans for only $50-$65!!!!

(They are the REAL THING!)

Party is Monday, Nov. 2nd from 1-3pm. At the home of Jheri Glover-we will be parked on the driveway!

Contact me for directions.

jheriglover@cox.net

We're having a GIRL!!!!!

2009-09-17T23:17:00.000-07:00

Due on Valentine's Day!

Glover's Top Ten List

2009-08-02T11:28:00.000-07:00

For anyone who doesn't already know...I'm Pregnant! 12 weeks today!!! So it is very unlikely that any pictures of myself will be posted on this blog for at least another year.
(However, I do have a lot of fun summer pix to post once my camera gets fixed.)

In the meantime, I have been going through my children's "funny" jars, (I randomly write down funny things they say and do, when I remember, and stick them in their own individual jar). I have posted the Top Ten funniest lines from the past couple of years.

(Noah is just barely talking, so his jar is empty)

Gracie Top Ten:

10. While looking at the Christmas lights-"Oh, it's so pretty...like me!"

9. About her muffin-"Can I have another cupcake waffle?"

8. As I was about to do her hair-"Mom, be nice to my hair, okay?"

7. Ran around the house yelling, "Cock-a moodle-boo!"

6. After eating her steak and potatoes-"Mom, I ate all my snake!"

5. "I LOVE chocolate chip cookies, they're my favorite color."

4. Named her stuffed animal, "animal stuff".

3. Wanting a drink of 7up-"Can I have some more green root beer?"

2. Mom-"Gracie, you're my little sweet pea!" Gracie-"Ummm!!! You can't say pee!!!"

1. On Thanksgiving- Mom-"Gracie, if you want to help mommy, go wash your hands." Gracie-"but I didn't pick my boogers!"

Ryal Top Ten:

10. Willing to compromise with me so I would take him to the store-"If you take me to Target, we can go to the BOY Target or the GIRL Target, I don't care."

9. To Gracie, after she called him a Cow-"But Gracie, NO, I'm just a boy."

8. "I don't want to watch conscience, it's too long!" He meant conference.

7. "I don't want to eat jelly because it probably tastes like jellyfish." (too much Spongebob)

6. "Mom, I broked Kaylee's leotard!...April Fools!"

5. "Have I ever been to the jungle?" (He meant the zoo)

4. He called the munchkins from Wizard of Oz, "Munchipmunks".

3. After waking me up in the middle of the night due to bad dreams, he wanted me to say a prayer so he could go back to sleep. He got mad and said, "don't say BLESS US to have good dreams, say HELP US to have good dreams, or it won't work! Nevermind, I will say it!"

2. Off in the corner talking to himself while Gracie watches Dora-"I don't like Dora, I say FART to her!"

1. Came into our bed because he didn't want to sleep in his. (Him and Ethan shared the top bunk) I asked why and he said, "I don't like to sleep with two guys in my bed."

Ethan Top Ten:

10. In his prayer, "please help us live closer by the Prophet."

9. Would call cherries, "cherrybabies".

8. Until age 5, used the word, "lasterday".

7. To mom-(after I got after Noah for breaking something), "He's just a baby, he doesn't understand you!"

6. As we are discussing needing more money to buy a new house, Ethan said, "you can use my toothfairy dollars!" (he had saved $4)

5. Mom-"Noah, how are you so big and fat when you don't eat anything?" Ethan-"I guess he ate a lot in heaven!"

4. Ethan is just learning how to read and sound out words. He very proudly spelled Scott-SGOTT.

3. About Ryal-"He has a temperature!" (temper)

2. With anxiety about when we would pick him up from the babysitters, (we were going to the temple for Holly & Ray's wedding), "You'll come get me right when it's over, right? Right when Holly & Ray kiss then you'll come get me?"

1. "You're getting on my nerds!"

Kaylee Top Two: (I started this after Kaylee had gotten older, but I still have two faves)

2. When talking about vaccuming her room, "I'm trying to get all the grumbles out!"

1. While grabbing Cayenne Pepper out of the cupboard, "I want to make some cinnamon toast. What do I need, just sugar and pepper?" (I won't tell you how old she was!)

Of course these stories are always funnier when you know the children personally and can imagine their funny faces and personalities, but I have to say that my children crack me up on a daily basis and I am so grateful to be their mother! Looking forward to Glover Baby #6!

Our June!

2009-06-14T22:24:00.000-07:00

We spent the past couple of weeks getting ready for the Az State Cinderella Finals! This was our Queen Creek Delegation Party, hosted by Emily Wright. (Kaylee is her Overall Cinderella Teen)

Hayden, Alyssa & Kaylee

This was our East Valley Cinderella Delegation Party at my house!

Heather
The moms worked together to sew matching pajama pants for the girls, while the girls swam

Angela & Lisa

Princess Tamara

Ashley made everyone flower clips!

The day before we left, we celebrated Ethan (6) & Ryal's (5) B-day's!

Noah is no longer scared of the water!

The girls

Sarah, Kaylee, Emily

Noah can float!

Ethan thought this was sooooo cool!

Limbo

The highlight-they each got their own DS!

The next morning, bright and early, we were off to Cinderella!

Laughlin, NV...here we come!

We stopped at a gas station near Kingman and made Kaylee sing for everyone!

That night the girls competed in Charm Girl, and Gracie won 1st alt. to Overall out of 11 girls!!!

Jessica, Kaylee & Ashley

Orientation

Gracie was having fun!

Helen & I

East Valley & Scottsdale Directors

Each division puts on a skit-this is Kaylee's division

Our delegation

Interview

Prince Gilbert autograph Party!

Gracie and Zolee Crawford

Pajama party in our suite!

Mornings were rough with Gracie, she had to be up so early. I had to find lots of entertainment for her while we got ready!

From that...

... to this!

Tot Personality!

(we had a jacuzzi jet tub-Gracie's favorite part of the week!)

Gracie & Emma ready for the Tot fun coloring party!

Western Hoe Down!

Jessica, Gracie & Kaylee

(I had the opportunity of being Jessica's chaperone, so these were my 3 girls all week)

Talent day!

Kaylee sang, "I Am Changing"

She nailed it! Rocked the house!!!

Sportswear

Disco Party

Partywear

Kaylee was the only girl in her division to have sleeves. Another contestants mother in a different division noticed and complimented Kaylee on keeping her standards. I think it made Kaylee proud.

And of course my mom showed up for finals. She wore Gracie's dress around the room when Gracie refused to put it on! Of course, Gracie wanted it back real quick!

Cindy Fair Lunch

Gracie got called up to dance on stage-thats her on the end

Kaylee got called up and had to request a kiss from someone on the stage-don't worry, no boys!

GRAND FINALS

Cinderella Ball

You can wear your highest crowning honor at the ball-Kaylee was the International Talent Winner in 2005

My East Valley Cinderella Royalty!

Tot-Emma Thompson

Mini Miss-Ashlyn Thompson

Miss-Jessica Crandell

Teen-Rebecca Keylon

Awards Breakfast

My Overall Scottsdale Cinderella Mini-Miss

Sophia Larsen

Best Model

Spirit of Cinderella

Kaylee won Spirit of Cinderella too!

(I tried to get a pix of them together-but they weren't cooperating!)

To be honest, I was probably more disappointed in the judges results this year than I have ever been. But we had a great time, made new friends and my kids did such a wonderful job! It was a great mother/daughter week and I was so proud of them!

This was our State Miss picture. Any of the girls who had been crowned Az. State Miss before lined up for a pix in order of year. Yep! I'm the oldest one there. My year was 1990...so long ago! I'm the only one married with 5 kids! Right in front of me is Erin Nurss, who is the reigning Miss Arizona. She was also my State Tot in 1990.

I was so excited to come home and see my boys!

Look at this kid!

FHE

2009-04-27T21:53:00.000-07:00

Tonight during family night, Scott asked the kids how Jesus Christ died. Ryal said, "He got "ate'n" by a TIGER! Didn't we just celebrate Easter?!? Apparently we're failing as parents!

"Reach Out" Benefit Concert

2009-04-27T01:16:00.000-07:00

For more pic.'s go to the Higher Ground blogspot!

2009-04-02T14:50:00.001-07:00

April Fools!

2009-04-01T22:09:00.000-07:00

Ryal thought up his own April Fools joke today...he came up to me and said, "Mom, I broked Kaylee's leotard!"-April Fool's!

GOOD ONE!

Girls Night!!!

2009-04-01T17:10:00.000-07:00

Of course I had a TWILIGHT Party!

And of course I wore my Twilight shirt and bought the board game...

Not sure which was better, Rigatony's or Liz's homemade treats...

Missy and her little boy Nixon

Twilight Trivia!

Julie

I've posted a few more pictures of rooms that are "getting there"

This is from the corner of the living room. Love that beautiful blue carpet! I should have posted before and after photos. The walls were horrible. We've textured and painted since we moved in-the whole house used to have 80's wallpaper.

The entry of the house leads into the family room

The family room leads into the office, which actually has it's own entrance/exit to the front porch

The office is really spacious, lots of room you can't see here-and it has a door that leads to the master bedroom

The bedroom itself is not that big, but it has a built in center for the TV, and the bathroom and closet are so big, it totally works!

MORE TO COME!!!

Getting our house put together...

2009-03-28T09:26:00.000-07:00

Life doesn't slow down, even when you are trying to move. It will take us months to put everything away, and even longer for us to be able to decorate the way that we would like to. But here are a couple of the rooms that have finally been made liveable..

This is the entrance to the kitchen from the East side of the house. The stairs go down to the basement. I'm actually getting used to the carpet! LOL

The fireplace is a see through fireplace, it comes through to the kitchen and the family room on the other side.

View from the pantry

This is my favorite thing, (besides the backyard), MY CLOSET!

It just keeps going...

Master Bath

That door is the toilet room, kind of saloon looking

Hallway to the girls rooms

Kaylee's room

Her room opens up to a second kitchen

My mom brought two fish home for the kids the other day-(thanks a lot!)

Gracie had a trip to the E.R. Thursday night after sticking the tip of a play spiderman plane in her eye. It got jabbed while she was either playing with it, (or probably fighting with one of the boys because she stole it away). Anyway, she came out with her eye bleeding from the inside-scared me to death! She scratched underneath her eyelid, but luckily, no other damage was done.

Higher Ground had a performance at the Porter Carnival last night. Kaylee performed her "Material Girl" solo & her group clogging routine. Check out the HG website for more pictures of the performance.

Afterward, Kaylee had a handful of friends over for a little sleepover. They played outside all night. Gracie is obsessed with bugs. She comes and gets me everytime she sees any kind of bug outside. (They are all bees)

The boys practiced for their BIG GAME that they have today.

They are the ANGELS. They are excited for dad to help coach again.

I LOVE this awesome backyard!!!

The Zoo

2009-03-25T15:59:00.000-07:00

Ethan's Kindergarten class had a fieldtrip to the Zoo on Tuesday, so I took the kids and met him up there. We had a lot of fun!

Rylan, Brooklyn & Ethan

(all in the same class together)

Noah just chilled in the front seat of his stroller eating snacks

"Rhino-saurus", Ryal calls it

The weather was perfect!

Terd Princess

Pretty Princess

Cotton Candy Bum!

Amberly & Gracie

Sno Cones!

We had to wrap Gracie like a mummy!

CHEERS!

Fun Day at the ZOO!!!

We stopped real quick at home to change and we were off to gymnastics...

Noah has his own little play area there

The boys were always too far away for me to take pictures, but this week, Ethan got moved up to BOYS LEVEL I

I always crack up watching Gracie do her stunts!

Ms. Suzanne is her gym coach

I've spent the entire day doing things like organizing my closet and going through bags of things that need to be put away from the move. I turned my back on Noah for 5 min. and this is what I found...

YEP! He was playing IN the fireplace.

WHAT?!?

Little Twerp!

Spring Break

2009-03-22T22:35:00.000-07:00

For Spring Break, our family MOVED!

We are in our new home, but we still have a lot to do! We spent the week staying up late and organizing and hauling things back and forth. The kids still had fun enjoying new bedrooms and a HUGE backyard, and we tried to break it up a little by playing at the park or having friends over. Here are some pictures of the outside of the home.

Corner lot

West Side

East Side

The backyard is HUGE-is it horse property! We love the set up!

Lots of room to ride bikes!

The house is 5000 sq. ft. We have so much storage it's unbelievable! The house needs some work and is a little outdated, but it really is a dream home for us! We're right across from my parents and we only moved a mile away. Close to work and friends. We're excited about it, and the kids LOVE it! They call it the BIG HOUSE.

I'll post pictures of the rooms once we finally get them organized.

The kids were cute to help clean up. They wanted to do ALL the dishes!

Noah helped too!

YES, that's carpet in the kitchen!

The boys started baseball this week, which was really exciting for them because dad is helping to coach again. And the girls took a trip to Tucson for another Cinderella pageant! (we just went to compete for scoresheet this time, where the judges give you comments and critiques on how you did)

We rode up with Angela Thompson and her girls Emma & Ashlyn

This is Emma and Gracie, both little TOTS.

Gracie & Emma getting ready to go into interview-with Sydnee Coddington, International Tot

Ashlyn-all ready for interview

(Angela's girls are darling!!!)

Kaylee ready for interview

(she's darling too!)

Sportswear-Kaylee had to give a speech!

Kaylee, Emma, Ashlyn, Gracie

Gracie had to put her shoes on ALL BY HERSELF!

This is during Partywear Collective-cracks me up how little she is!

Talent-Best part of the day!

This is Gracie during her onstage interview-when she grows up, she wants to be a WITCH!

The girls

Glover Girls

All the Girls

Afterward, we all went to eat at Mimi's Cafe-dang blurry camera!

MMMmmmm...strawberry Lemolade!

Today is Sunday and we attended a new ward. It was bitter sweet. I really missed Harmony Park today. It's sad to not see your friends at church, especially when you don't get to see them that often throughout the week. BUT, our new ward is great and we have really enjoyed moving into a ward that is equally as wonderful. Change is great and change is hard. Moving has had it's pros and cons. I'm overwhelmed and extremely grateful at the same time. There are things I already miss about my old house and neighborhood, and there are things that I have fallen in love with here in our new place. I hope that this will turn out to be a wonderful experience for our family. If anyone from HP reads this, please know that your friendship and love has meant so much to our family. We will miss being a part of your ward, but we hope to always be a part of your lives.

Ahwatukee Cinderella Pageant

2009-03-08T23:03:00.000-07:00

Kaylee gave up her crown as the Ahwatukee Cinderella Miss on Saturday and Gracie competed in the Tot Division.

Carlie Clayton (Arizona St. Mini-Miss), Madison Curtis (2007-08 Intl. Mini-Miss) & Gracie, getting ready for Interviews

Tot Interviews

Partywear

Brynn Hiatt was the reigning Ahwatukee Mini-Miss and Katie Sorenson was competing as a Mini-Miss (both HG girls)

Gracie fell in love with Madison

Brynn & Kaylee-Reigning Royalty!

Both got to perform and give up their crowns.

Kaylee was running back and forth backstage, so I didn't get a lot of pictures of her.

Cinderella is a youth development program that focuses on poise, confidence and talent. These girls are to be dressed age appropriately, (no make-up on the younger ones), and they are judged on their personality and onstage presentation, not on their physical beauty. I love what Cinderella has done for Kaylee, and I personally feel that it is important to help girls feel comfortable to get up on stage and learn to perform, whether it is playing the piano, dancing or a simple self-introduction. These girls feel good about themselves everytime they compete because they do better each time. And I love a program that teaches girls how to act like young ladies, this seems to be lost in this day and age. These girls become great friends, they learn to cheer eachother on, and they are taught that they are ALL WINNERS!

Sportswear

"Hi, I'm Gracie Glover, I'm 3 years old, I live in Mesa, Arizooooonnnaaaa!!"

Gracie right after her on stage Tot Personality Interview, (she got a fun little goody bag), with Madison as she gets ready to perform

I don't know how she did it as a 3 year old hyper little tot...but Gracie won!!!

She was wild and out of control, she even flicked a booger on the stage during crowning and then wiped her hands on Madison's dress...but at least she was having fun, right? Embarrassing!

2009-2010 Ahwatukee Cinderella Royalty

Yeah Gracie!

Kaylee gave a great farewell speech and had a fun little final walk, but I was on stage with her so I didn't get any pictures of it. So sad.

Katie Sorenson & Gracie-HG girls!

Today, she was was so excited to tell everyone she was the winner! And her word of the day today was, "Cock-a moodle-boo!" This girl cracks me up everyday!

THE HAPPIEST PLACE ON EARTH!

2009-03-03T22:07:00.000-08:00

So we got to meet Tricia at Disneyland last week! HG was performing, (see the HG website for pictures of the girls), and also participating in a workshop with one of Disney's amazing choreographers. We did 3 days at Disneyland and CA Adventure as a family...so fun!

Kaylee got to bring her BFF, Caroline Haws.

Yep-everyone matched!

Gracie had a leash-and she was not happy about it!

Scott wasn't happy about his name being on the back of his shirt, but I thought it was cute!

Kyle Hiatt nicknamed Scott, "Rhinestone Cowboy!" (They are not rhinestones, they are studs)

Casey Jr.

This is Ryal's BRAVE face...ready to go on Thunder Mountain Railroad!

This is how my boys waited in all of the lines...

Ryal tried to get off of his horse himself, he just hung here like this for along time, without saying anything...funny kid!

Peformance time...Calli and I were pumped and ready to go!

Kaylee got to peform her Co. jazz, her clogging, her hip hop and her solo...she did great!

The last day we ate lunch at Ariel's Grotto, the kids LOVED meeting all of the princesses!

Gracie was all decked out in her "Princess" outfit.

Gracie became obsessed with Minnie Mouse!

Mmmm...dessert!

Kaylee was always off with her friend...

The PIXAR Parade at CA Adventure was awesome! The kids LOVED it!

Ethan was thrilled to see one of his BFF's, Nathan Stahle, at Disneyland! (His sisters dance at HG) They got to do rides while the girls danced at the workshop.

Noah LOVED the bubbles during the parade!

Had to do the face painting...

The last night, the boys got to make their own Light Saber's, (Life Flavors, as Ryal calls them)...Scott insisted that this was their idea...Hmmm....

On Saturday we got to relax and take the kids to the park...

Ethan was having a hard day at the park...

Love that perfect CA weather

Just love blogger sometimes...I could not get this picture to face the right direction. This is Ruby Doo...we celebrated her first birthday Saturday night! (daughter of Martin & Nancy Dodd)

My sweet grandmother purchased tickets for Tricia and I to go with her to see LORD OF THE DANCE! Of course, I LOVED it!!! It was absolutely incredible!

And the perfect end to a perfect vacation was my aunt Nancy buying me the perfect treat for the ride home...Team Edward! (March 21st-girl party! Can't wait!!!)

Sorry for the long post, but it was a long vacation with lots of fun things going on!

Now, back to real life; laundry, bills, making dinner (no churro's for dinner), school, work, yuck! Spring Break-HURRY UP!

Gotta Have Heart Benefit Concert

2009-02-22T13:37:00.000-08:00

The concert was wonderful! My mom came out to support the Nielson family and HG Dance. Click on the HG blogpage for more details!

A HUGE thank you to Margaret Manning for all of your hard work!

Come out and support us!

2009-02-16T09:21:00.000-08:00

Queen Creek Cinderella Pageant!

2009-01-15T08:27:00.001-08:00

Kaylee and Gracie both participated in the Queen Creek Cinderella Pageant on Saturday. I was so proud of them, they both did such a great job! There were 32 girls, 12 of them Tots-(Gracie's division) This was Gracie's first "official" pageant, as she just turned 3 in December. I was so proud of her. She did great considering her age, even though she definately embarrassed me a lot too! She would be perfect on stage, and then all of a sudden, she was on the floor, flashing her underwear and running around. But she had fun, that's what's important-and she LOVES the stage! Out of 12 Tots, she was awarded 2nd Alt. to Tot Personality-which is the onstage interview, it accounts for half of your Overall score. Cinderella is a Youth Development Program which focuses on poise, self-confidence & developing your talents. I don't know how "poised" Gracie was, but she definately was confident! Kaylee sang a new song and has a lot more stress as she has moved up to the TEEN division where the interview process is harder. She also gives an onstage speech during her modeling, and she has to wear these ridiculously high heels because she is so short! Anyway, Kaylee WON-her first time as a Teen! She was thrilled! These pictures were sent to me as my camera was broken and I didn't get any of my own pictures :(

New 2009-2010 Queen Creek Royalty

Outgoing and Incoming Royalty

All of the participants! You can see Gracie right in the front, dressed in white, holding her trophy. She loved her crown and trophy, but was upset that she didn't get flowers like Kaylee. I caught her stealing a flower out of the bouquet from the girl next to her! That's Gracie! She makes me laugh everyday! We had so much fun! Thank you to Emily Wright for putting on an awesome pageant!!!

We LOVE Cinderella!!!!!!

Christmas Break

2009-01-08T20:13:00.000-08:00

Christmas Eve was spent with the Glover Family

Grandma Ann always has a fun collection of costumes and animals for the kids to act out the Nativity

David, Powell & Mia

Ryan

Ethan

Kara

Scott & Ryal

Gracie was the STAR

Noah

Ethan

This year Ann had a fun White Elephant type gift exchange. She had all kinds of brand new interesting things in her garage that she had purchased over the years. Lots of fun kids items, books, DVD's, etc. So...she wrapped them up and had a gift exchange!

Holly

Kaylee-poser!

Noah & Uncle Ray

Garrett got Cinderella pajamas!!!

Of course, you know who ended up with them! And everything else she saw...

Afterward, we all went Caroling...

It was late when we got home, but we still kept to our tradition of opening Christmas pajamas

Ninja Turtles!

Then...my camera broke! I got a few shots of the morning before the kids came down, but nothing else turned out. The flash is broken! So frustrating because then that morning, as the kids are ready to run downstairs, my video camera broke too! So I have NO pictures of our Christmas! Ugh!!!

Hmmm...didn't the boys get this two years ago? Santa went looking in our garage. Merry Christmas Noah!

Kaylee...Santa brought her a Wii game

And brought the boys a Wii...

Noah's corner...

Gracie's spoiled, I know! But that horse carriage really carries her and walks, it also neighs and makes galloping sounds...pretty cool!

The rest of the week was spent playing with toys and spending time together! Gracie & Kaylee practiced a lot for the Cinderella Pageant they are participating in this weekend, and Kaylee got to work on some of her dance solo with both Calli & Tricia...she LOVED that!

What I don't have pictures of is the fun girls night that I spent with Tricia, Julie, Kemra and some of their other friends. We had soooo much fun! Then the next day, Kaylee & I spent the day with my sisters, Tricia & Holli; we got facials & went shopping, it was so fun to spend time with my sisters...I was so glad they were in town for Christmas Break! And finally, I got to go on one last girls date night with BFF Lilli Hiatt! I saw Twilight for the 3rd time and then ate at Cheesecake Factory! We had so much fun! It was nice to have time to do stuff like that. Now, it's back to REAL life. So much going on with the studio and my kids activities, but I LOVE it!

Still, I'm counting down 'til summer!

2009-01-04T11:07:00.000-08:00

My dads mother passed away on Christmas morning. It was a sad day for us, but a happy reunion for her. After being alone, without her spouse for 32 years, (a single mother of 6 children), she was finally reunited with her husband, George. Christmas was always a hard day for her to endure, so I know that it was a blessing to her to be able to spend this Christmas with her eternal companion. She will be missed, and always loved. Her funeral was absolutely beautiful. The spirit was so strong. It was inspiring to hear stories I had never heard before, and so touching to hear of her trials and know that she endured them well and is now finished with this chapter of her life. We look forward to the day that we will see her again.

Our Week BEFORE Christmas...

2008-12-23T22:32:00.000-08:00

"What Christmas Means To Me"

Our BIG event we've been working on was our Higher Ground Christmas Recital, put on by our Summit Company Dancers. It turned out great! I will post more pictures on the HG website sometime this week.

This is Kaylee and Caroline

Me and one of my dearest friends, Lilli Hiatt. (dang camera!)

My mom worked the sound booth and Holli came in JUST in time! She was studying abroad in England. So happy to have her home for the holidays!!!

Then the next morning, dress rehearsal for the Christian Dance Company. My mom and I helped put the little girls number together. Gracie was so much younger then all of them, but we still gave her a small part...she did good, but mostly, she was just excited to be a part of it!

First Row: Paige Sorensen, Gracie Glover, Ariana Moreno

Second Row: Emma Thompson, Zoie White, Jessica Ray

Back Row: Hattie White, Caitlin Crandell, Ashlyn Thompson

Sunday, we celebrated Holli's 21st b-day!

Dad made enchiladas...yummy!

Isn't she lovely?

We played Cranium...this is brock acting out "Chick Magnet"

We've been running around like crazy trying to get all of our Christmas shopping done! Things crept up on me too fast this year! Tricia and Chase got in town on Saturday evening!!! Tonight we had our HALE family Christmas party.

After dinner, we started off with our gag gift exchange.

AWESOME!!!

For our "normal" family gift exchange, we decided to do homemade gifts/acts of service.

I'm so frustrated that this picture turned out blurry because it really was cool. Ethan ( and I) made Skyler a blanket. One side has flames and the other is blue with the words ROCK STAR on it. Ryal made a similar blanket for Mason, and they both strung necklaces for them that say "W.W.J.D?" Interpretation: "What would Jesus Do?"

My mom gave Ryal a "promise to take him to the library", and then she bought him this book. He LOVES to read!

This shirt doesn't look homemade, but Kylie made it...does that count?

Kaylee made Tricia a bag with a Fluer de Leis on the back and pictures on the front.

Tricia's classic pose!

Some people LOVED their gifts...

PINKALICIOUS!

Some people ate their gifts...

Some people wore their gifts...

Afterward, Skyler played Christmas songs on his guitar and we sang along...

Then my dad carried on the tradition of reading us an inspirational story before we left...

Have a Merry Christmas!!!

In-class Christmas Recitals

2008-12-17T11:20:00.000-08:00

Gracie had her in-class ballet recital with Ms. Whitney Monday morning. It is a 3-5 yr. old Ballet/Jazz combo. She has so many friends in there...so much fun!

The girls danced to "Where are you Christmas?"

Ms Whitney is so good with these girls!

Yummy treats!!!

Amberly, Reese, & Gracie-all in the same ward!

Later that evening, Kaylee had her in-class ballet recital with Nadja. I can't say enough about how lucky we are to have Nadja...she is absolutely amazing!!! Tricia's favorite dance teacher she ever had!

Then Gracie had another in-class recital this morning for her ballet/tap combo class for ages 18 mth.-3yrs.

Ms. Whitney handmade all of the wands for these classes!

They did a tap dance to Jingle Bells.

Our Higher Ground Christmas Recital, (put on by Summit Company Dancers), will be this Friday at 7pm at Stapley Jr. High School.

All lyrical students and Company students will be performing!!!

Fun with the Fam!

2008-12-10T16:26:00.000-08:00

Starting with Thanksgiving...

The kids were up early helping me make rolls while dad was off playing soccer, Thanksgiving Day tradition. It took Scott a long time to come home because he thought he broke his ankle, he was in the ER!

We rented a moon jump, of course, and the kids had a blast running in and out, watching the parade and then jumping outside.

Our family from CA came to visit...

Skyler and Brock, always rough and tumble!

The usual Ping Pong tournaments...

Kaylee & Hayley made videos on Hayley's computer all weekend

Me & my grandma

This was Ruby's favorite thing to do, and she always did it on demand! Crack up!!!

Ruby & Lilly Dodd

The day after Thanksgiving, we hit Amazing Jakes!

Coincidence

Scott squeezed himself in there for the whole ride!

They rode the enitre ride this way...so cute!

Saturday was Kaylee's B-day, after she had a solo with Calli and her hair done by Julie, we headed to Scottsdale Fashion Square!

The girls locked themselves in the dressing rooms with the most hideous clothes they could find and took pictures of themselves!

Then to the MAC store we went...

Makeover time!

Even Gracie got in on it!

An hour later...

B-E-A-U-T-I-F-U-L!

Then we saw that Libby Lu was having a HUGE SALE, and Gracie got the works for half price! AWESOME BIRTHDAY!!!

When she was all finished, she had her nails done, her hair done, her make-up done, a tiara, a b-day sash, a new puppy, (with cothes and carrying case), a blinged out bracelet, tattoos, and an awesome goody bag full of jewelry and other treats!

And a new outfit too!

Then at home, the B-day festivities began...

It was the cake Kaylee had always dreamed about for her 13th B-day!

Nancy gave her JUICY earrings!

New Boots!

Tre & Teej gave her an awesome ring! And between Grandma Ann & Grandma Ferrin, she made out with $100!

Gracie LOVED the present opening

part of her b-day!

She really wanted Princess barbies, so it was cute to see her reaction to every one!

"For Me?"

This one talks...

Gracie's favorite princess is Ariel. I found her the cutest little outfit on Etsy. But we decided to see how it looked on Noah instead...

Not bad!

On Sunday, Scott blessed Ruby, (Martin & Nancy's daughter), in our ward. Scott gives the most beautiful blessings by the way.

Gotta love the family photos!

That night after my mom hosted dinner at her house, we went to the temple...

(Gracie picked a "great food" at my moms house and wouldn't let it go)

The boys were practicing their gang signs in the parking lot

Ryal's was pretty scary!

Best part of the night...we walked by this display and it was playing a narration in Spanish, Ethan asked if it was "Nacho Libre", pretty awesome!

The temple lights really were beautiful, just like every year!

Fun Thanksgiving Break! Don't know that it was "restful", but lots of fun! We missed you, Tricia, Chase & Holli! Can't wait 'til Christmas!

Huge Exhale...Just finished New Moon!

2008-12-07T21:03:00.000-08:00

Okay, so I have to admit that I have become WAY to involved in the Twilight series. Just saw the movie for the second time this weekend with sis-n-law Tre, and Kaylee. The whole thing has been so entertaining...I NEVER get a chance to read anything, because reading involves sitting still for long periods of time, who has time for that? But, I made time, I had to! I HAD TO READ THE BOOK AFTER I SAW THE MOVIE! I actually bought a book with a poster of Edward in it and fought with Kaylee over it because she assumed it was hers. No Way! It was mine! She threatened to tell Scott that I had a HUGE crush on Edward, which of course was a problem, so I confessed before she could rat me out. I let him know that it was just his character, (which is mostly true), and that I just had to finish the book...and could I please put the poster on my wall? Anyway, he even put the kids to bed early one night so that I could just sit in my bed and read...he is my Edward! Although I never did tell him that there are 4 books to the series! LOL Anyway, enough of that.

Here are the pictures from Holly's wedding day!

Scott's cousin Marie...miss that girl!

BLURRY

Traditional boy picture

I love this because Scott is holding Noah up in the back...and Powell, (in the front), looks hilarious!

NOAH

GRACE

RYAL

ETHAN

KAYLEE

Scott's brother Ryan played all night...

Gracie literally hung out at the candy table ALL NIGHT LONG!

Cute idea though, they had little bags and candy scoopers for the kids

Chef Brad! (are you jealous Tricia?)

Did Garrett slip an arm around the shoulder in there? These two cousins are soooo cute!!!

Gracie called this her castle, she went back and forth between opening all of Holly & Ray's presents to the candy jars, all night.

This was cool...they had their names put on the court for their reception!

Julie & Noah

Then went home and had a little sleepover in the family room, with hot chocolate and a warm fire! These are the kinds of things I love most about the holidays!

*More pictures to come of Thanksgiving, Kaylee & Gracie's b-days & our family Christmas party!

I can't do anything else right now...lots to post when I finish the book!!!

2008-12-02T12:00:00.000-08:00

The Party, the Wedding & the Turkey!

2008-11-22T08:11:00.000-08:00

This is Turkey...

He sits on our doorstep. Ryal made him. No one is allowed to touch Turkey.

This is Ryal showing his strong muscles for making Turkey.

This is the BEST cookie I have ever had...(well, it ties for first with Amanda's cookies) I ate at least half of it completely by myself...it took me 24 hours though...is that not as bad?

It was from the Priests & Laurels for Dance Festival. Made my day!

We're pretty excited about the fact that Noah is eating with utensils now!

He thinks he's pretty cool!

Last night was the Polynesian Dance celebration for Holly & Ray. My kids were so excited to go!

It was held at Villa Sienna...beautiful! And the food they served was soooo yummy!!!

Holly looked beautiful...and Gracie wouldn't leave her alone ALL night!

Everyone wanted to dance with Grandma Ann!

We danced all night...the kids LOVED it!

Garrett was getting down!

Go Ryal! Go Ryal! Go Ryal!

Yep...these two got in on the action too!

Go Scotty! Go Marky!

Ema & Elle

Sydney crashed!

Noah was totally dancing! He was head bobbing and stomping his feet...so cute!

The music was so loud, I was suprised he even got this close to the speakers...he was fascinated!

This was cute because Noah was throwing a little tantrum because he wanted my camera. So to get him to stop, I said, "Look Noah, take a picture!" When I turned it around, I saw he had posed for the camera...he's so funny!

Then was the entrance of Holly & Ray...the family danced around them, they were all dressed up...it was so fun!

I believe the lady in the purple is Ray's mom...there's Gracie pulling on Holly-she did that ALL night long!

Then they had a cake ceremony. Ray's mom had baked all these cakes and made TONS of blankets-she said she started on them 2 years ago. They presented the cakes and quilts to several different people; the bishop, the grandmas, the mothers, etc. Each person got about 4 blankets! It was amazing!!!

The quilts just kept getting bigger and bigger. I think this one is called a Topacloth (sp?)

Gracie couldn't keep her fingers out of the cake!

Then they had the money dance. Holly and Ray both danced, while family danced around them and the crowd put money in their clothes. Lots of people were hollering, the music was loud, it was really fun!

Ethan got down on the floor and collected his own stash and ran off the floor saying, "Look what I got!"

We made him give it back of course!

Then this morning was the boys very last soccer game. We met at the park for the trophy party afterward.

The boys played 3 Billy Goats Gruff on the bridge!

Scott was an Asst. Coach, they gave him a very nice plaque.

Julie was the REAL Hero! She coached every practice, every game and was so awesome with these boys! Thank you Julie!!!

The fam came to support the boys...thanks guys!!!

Kimball Stake Dance Festival

2008-11-16T21:15:00.000-08:00

Yesterday was our Stake Dance Festival, and it really did turn out great! I have to be honest, I am so glad it is over, just because it was a lot of work. I am so appreciative to the many members of our Stake, who gave up so much time and performed so much service to help this whole thing come together! Roma Morgan deserves honorable mention for all the work she did on the costumes. She did so much!!! Also, my mom and the rest of the YW's Presidency for their inspiration and hard work on putting this whole thing together. The theme was "Steadfast and Immovable-We're Moving in the Right Direction". The way it all came together was amazing! And of course, Kelleen Cardon, who oversaw everything we did! I know that Kaylee really enjoyed herself and I was very appreciative to all who sacrificed to make this a great experience for everyone.

Our long day began at 11:30am where the kids reported to the Interstake Center to learn the opening and closing numbers. Taught by Bobbi Rogers.

So many youth

Bert Johnson ran our music

Caroline and Kaylee-Beehives "Life's What You Make It", choreographed by Michelle Stones

My mom ran the Deacon number

These boys were so cute and my mom was able to round up PHX Suns jerseys for each of them to wear, plus she also got Suns T-shirts for them to throw to the audience during their dance-so fun for them!

My theme for the day became taking pictures of Brock-just because he hated it so much!

Each group had about a 15 min. run thru of their dance before lunch, and then we went right into our dress rehearsal.

At the end of the performance, the youth sang a beautiful song, it was very powerful!

The adult dance was pretty awesome...they all looked great! Sharilyn Wilson was their choreographer.

Emily, Kaylee & Sarah

Some of the YW participated in a specialty number to God Bless America

Tricia, my mom and I had a blast in July choreographing the dances for the dance festival. The Deacons dance was so fun...we had a blast just running around the dance studio and teaching ourselves how to dribble a basketball and dance at the same time!

And then that, turned into this...

Time for the Mia Maids & Teachers-they learned the Cha Cha...this is Skyler, he didn't like having his picture taken either.

So I kept my camera on Brock!

I got to choreograph and teach for the Laurels & Priests-we did Swing

The boys got to play drumsticks, which was fun, and I was really happy with how they performed! SUCCESS!!!

Next was the YSA-Calli choreographed a really cute Hip Hop number for them

Then was the Laurel & Priest specialty number-(that's basically all the Laurel & Priests who WANT to dance), Calli did that one too-really cute!

Julie came and watched the show!

Kelleen not only ran things, she also danced, (below),-we had two performances, one at 5:30pm (immediately following the dress rehearsal), and another one at 7:30pm, then a dance afterward. I got home at 10pm!

Overall, this was a great experience for those who came to get something out of it. Friends bonded, youth made new friends, some learned that they really did like dancing, others were showcased for the talents they had developed and the youth put on a great show that their parents really enjoyed watching.

The Stake put on a wonderful fireside tonight with a video and lots of time for the youth to bear testimonies. I was glad that I was called to be a part of this special event for our youth.

Can't wait until these guys are participating in things like that!

Veteran's Day

2008-11-14T21:27:00.000-08:00

We enjoyed a nice day "OFF"

The kids enjoyed riding their bikes most of the day...

Poor Ryal, loves riding, but had his shoes tangled in the pedal, not once, but over and over again. He kept crying, "my shoe is tied to my bike!"

Dad took a long lunch break and we rode on over to the park...

My kids love climbing into weird spots like this and saying, "take a picture!"

We love this FAT face!

This is Ryal proud of himself for "pumping", (his legs).

The greatest thing was watching Noah. For the entire hour, he just sat in the sand and did this. Never putting it in his mouth, hardly even moving from this spot. He just picked it up and watched it fall down, over and over and over.

Gracie is such a monkey! She is strong and has no fear, we have to watch her like a hawk!

FUN DAY AT THE PARK!!!

Fall is FINALLY here!

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I LOVE this time of year, when the weather cools down and Christmas music is playing everywhere!

Gracie got to go to Nathan's b-day party with the boys and when they left, they each received a puzzle. She has played with it constantly since the party. This is her excited about putting it together for the millionth tiime!

Friday night, while I was running a Christmas rehearsal at the studio, Kaylee sliced her finger almost to the bone, hitting a nerve and having to get stitches.

She was mad that I took her picture, she came straight from dance.

YUCK!

Here are the rest of the Halloween pictures...

I always have to get one of Bishop & Sis. Udall.

"I'll get you my pretty!"

Yep, Brock really wore that!

Mom made Dinner in a Pumpkin...yummm!!

Ryal and Gracie both went through the Haunted House!

Kaylee LOVED being in the Haunted House again this year.

Mason came trick-or-treating with all the kids.

Ethan couldn't wait to go to Elise's house-she put her costume on again to show Ethan!

Noah Boy-perfectly behaved ALL NIGHT!

Ryal took care of his little brother.

Halloween night-Date night!

There's been lots going on with the dance studio too, check out Higher Ground's blogspot!

HAPPY HALLOWEEN!

2008-10-31T15:55:00.000-07:00

Gracie is a witch for Halloween! She says, "I'll get you my pretty!" But she used to say, "I'm pretty my pretty!"

She had fun this week because she got to wear her costume to both of her dance classes this week. Her teacher, Ms. Whitney, is so cute. She brought candy for all of them and even dressed up herself.

We also went to the Kempton's Halloween Party! The highlight was watching Cash struggle to fight off his mom and grandma while they tried to make him the cutest little disco guy ever!

Reese just sat there smiling like a princess the entire time, waiting for a good picture to be taken...so funny!

Jackson & Amanda

Amberly

RROOAAARRRR!

You can't see it, but Ethan is in LOVE with his Jedi braid in back!

NOAH is a "Smarty Pants"!

RYAL is Captain America!

Love these kiddos!

Then our 3 Ward Halloween Carnival was Wednesday night! This was my 3rd year overseeing this activity, and with the help of so many others, this was by far the best year we've had! We think we had over 1500 people there!

It was fun because my mom's ward was one of the three!

Kaylee is a YW now, she she worked a booth for an hour. (she went as an Olympic Medalist) Not sure what happened to the medals she was wearing???

LIZ

Lyn Rae Primary were the 6 "B's"

Carolyn

The missionaries had their own little booth!

Teej & Tre came!

We had over 30 booths, ice cream, cotton candy, popcorn, dunk tank, Haunted House, Train Ride, Bounce House, Movie screen, Face Painting, balloons, dinner, candy, prizes...and the best DJ ever-Shawn Murphy! It really was so fun!

Twinners!

Twinners again!

And we also had some awesome entertainment!

Bro. Cox & Bishop Thacker

Skyler's band played...for the first time ever!

Check out Sky's pants!

I have to say, when it was all over, it was pretty overwhelming when I thought of all the people who came together to help for this awesome community event! I am so thankful to everyone who did so much to make this carnival such a success!

Now time to relax and enjoy Halloween!

Today I went to Ethan's classroom and helped with his little Halloween Party. This is him with one of his 3 girlfriends, Elise Campbell...yep, Chase's little sister! They sit right by eachother, so cute!

Happy Trick-or-Treating!!!