Texas Boyers

Alex and her ventures

2010-11-03T22:03:00.003-05:00

One fun thing about kindergarten is the scarecrow parade and field trips. Alex makes a beautiful scarecrow. She had fun and Sam said the parade was awesome. Sometimes they actually get along great and enjoy each other. I was very excited to be able to take the day off and spend it with Alex at Dewberry farms with her class. We had a great day just the 2 of us (and several other kids and teachers). It was a perfect day with Alex. She is so fun and friendly. It was fun to see how she interacts with the other kids and adults that were there. She loves socializing and the kids love her.
Last week she came home from school and I asked her how her day was and she said " a little bad but mostly good". I asked her what was a little bad and she said, "all the kids wanted to play with no one. They all wanted to play with ME!!!". I could only just laugh to myself. What a difficult day. If all our problems could be that simple. Leave it up to Alex to have this problem.

I love this kid. Craziness and all.

Pumpkin carving with friends

2010-11-03T21:45:00.002-05:00

Some of our great friends our moving and we are very sad to see them go. They moved out of their house and in a hotel right now and we have the great privilege of having Olivia stay with us this week. This past Sunday (Halloween) Harolds and Torbits came over for dinner and we were able to carve pumpkins with friends. Another friend found a great pumpkin kit similar to Mr. Potato head for Michael. We all had a great time with friends and pumpkins. Michael''s made up pumpkin by Morgan's awesome pumpkin.
The whole gang. We are sure going to miss the Harolds.

Chris's Dream Halloween!!!

2010-11-03T21:30:00.002-05:00

Now that we are in a new house, we have taken advantage of decorating (we, or I, started decorating for Halloween since the beginning of September). We have come up with many new decorations (including skulls, bones etc) which the kids are loving. I will post photos when I finish everything. Yes, I am still continuing to finish decorations even though Halloween is over. I will put it away this weekend.
As almost every other Halloween, we decided to go dressed as a family. Thanks to some friends who have the same obsession as Chris and children the same sizes as ours, we were able to borrow Chris's dream costumes, STAR WARS!!! Chris makes a great Yoda. The only way it would have been better is if Chris was Darth Vader and Michael Luke was Luke Skywalker so that Chris could say "Luke, I am your father".

SHAC JAM Sam Houston Area Council Centennial Celebration (2010)

2010-10-13T17:12:00.002-05:00

What Chris helped with and participated in this past weekend. A once in a life time event.

Swim Team

2010-06-29T00:22:00.004-05:00

All 3 girls were on swim team this season and loved it. They have all become excellent, confident swimmers!!! Alex and Sam enjoyed swimming, but couldn't wait until they got there trophy's at the end of the year. It is amazing what they will do for a trophy. While the girls were swimming, Michael just wondered around and was babysat by many members of the swim team. It's a good thing there are so many eyes watching out for this busy boy.

Michael getting into trouble at the awards ceremony. Of course Chris isn't too far behind with the camera.

While we sit in the heat, we eat!!!! Michael quite enjoyed his sausage until the girls decided they wanted a bite, then it quickly ended up on the ground as he threw a nice tantrum. Even boys do it. I thought it was only girls, but he has proved me wrong.
Morgan and Sam at Meet of Champs. They all did fantastic this year.
Morgan, Sam and Alex with their coaches Matt and Jessi.
Alex and Sam showing off their great trophy's. Sam also got one of the few sportsmanship awards which we find very ironic. She is the one in our house who is obsessed with games and HATES to lose.!!!!! I don't think I can add enough exclamation marks after that one. Boy did she surprise us on this one and boy does she have the coaches fooled!!! What can we say, we are a very competitive family.

Call me CRAZY

2010-06-28T23:47:00.003-05:00

Introducing GRACIE LOU (another girl.....dog)!!! My friend, Kim Hicks, had 7 cute, adorable Beagle puppies that she needed to find homes for. She kept bugging me to take one until I finally gave in. I told her that she was just going to have to drop her off when Chris wasn't here so that he just came home to a new dog and couldn't say anything. I started feeling guilty and told him..... a few minutes before she arrived!!! I didn't tell the little girls, so it would be a surprise, and boy was it. Kim showed up with 2 little girls for us to choose from, and Gracie Lou was a perfect fit for the Boyer house. We thought we could test drive her to make sure it worked out with the kids and Katy, and that test drive has turned into a permanent home. Of all people, Chris has fallen in love with her. We have decided that she is Chris and Alex's dog (as Katy is Morgan's dog). Alex loves her as you can see below in the picture. Gracie Lou loves Michael's face due to the many leftovers on his cheeks. Michael just giggles and begs for more. Currently she can fit through the dog door, but who knows for how much longer. She is about 3-4 months old, and is continuing to grow. It is quite funny watching her go through it and get high centered. Katy is slowly warming up to her and starting to play with her. I hope they become best friends and that Gracie Lou will help with Katy's separation anxiety. Only time will tell. As for now I am going crazy with Michael and Gracie running around, but loving it.

Our Special Visitor from Idaho

2010-06-28T23:23:00.007-05:00

Talia got here at 11:30 p.m. on the Friday the 18th. Boy did we introduce her to Houston in a hurry. Saturday morning we took her to an outside swim meet in the Houston heat from 9 to 1. We then came home and swam for a few hours and got her tan started. We then went an hour away for car races/demolition derby and great fireworks. I think Talia was ready to get on the plane that night and head back to the great Idaho summer weather. She is still toughing it out with us and kind of getting use to it, Kind of......

Since that day, we haven't taken her out all day long. Maybe she will come again if we are nice.

The girls are loving her fantastic bracelets, games, swimming buddies and her beautiful hairdo's. Talia sat with the girls Sunday afternoon and curled all their hair. They were in Heaven with the curls!! They had to pose for photos---who knows when it will happen again?

Talia left for a volleyball camp at UT in Austin and the girls are already missing her. They can't wait for her to come back and play with them. They are going to be a little lonely when she leaves. It has been fun watching Talia grow up to be a great, fun, beautiful young woman. We all love having her here and would take her any time. We hope to have her back again, with other family members too!!!

Samantha and her beautiful curls.

What a poser and beautiful girl. Look at that smile and hair!!!!

Little, Mischievous Alex. How can you not love a face like that.

childrens Museum

2010-06-28T22:44:00.005-05:00

This last week my friend Talia came to visit us from Idaho. It has been great to have her here and the girls are loving her. We would love to keep her all summer, but her family is missing her. We completely understand and will also miss her when she's gone. It has been fun to have a reason to do a few different things other than our daily routine. We took this opportunity to go visit the Children's Museum. It is always great to have an extra set of hands with the little kids (although Maria Torbit kept Michael, which made it much easier).

We must have worn the girls out. Peace!!!!

They had a place where the kids could work and do jobs like adults!!! The girls loved it and this was one of their favorites, The Vet Clinic.
Morgan, Sam, Alex and Lexi in front of the entrance.
Another favorite spot of the girls, the Ambulance. They got to do blood pressure, wraps, shock each other and drive!! They loved it. I could hardly get them out of here.
Morgan's favorite spot. How lucky they all were to each get an easel. from left to right, Talia, Lexi, Morgan, Alex and Sam.
Alex and Sam will make great cashiers (as long as they get along). One can check and one can bag!!
We're stuck, get me out!!!!!
Sam, Talia and Alex in the large tractor tire.
A girl's favorite. A robot of PHONES!!!!!

Samantha's Kindergarten Graduation

2010-06-24T17:23:00.003-05:00

Samantha graduated from Kindergarten with flying colors. She loved school, learning and friends. Let's just hope she can continue the enthusiasm through the rest of her years.

We love Grandma and Grandpa Moser!!!!!

2010-06-24T16:33:00.004-05:00

My mom and dad came to visit the end of May and we were very sad to see them go. They also brought my little adorable niece with them, Jaylee, from Phoenix. The girls had a great time with them all. My mom and dad are incredible people with so much talent which we love to be on the receiving end. I have to save my money for when they come due to the many projects we accomplish. My dad had a long honey-do (daddy-do list) which he accomplished several things, with much more for next trip (hopefully this fall!!!!). We have to keep them busy, or they leave early. I have no problem with keeping them busy at this house.

My dad fixed my front and back door, kitchen drawer, toilet seats, cupboard doors, and made me an incredible desk in my office. (they are trying to get me organized, good luck!!). During dads breaks, he would find the kids and take a break. The only payment dad requires (other than air conditioning down here) is a cold Pepsi (make that dozens of Pepsi's). Here is Dad and Alex taking a break. You can tell she adores here grandpa.

Here is my new desk. Now it just needs to be painted (that is the one thing dad does not do) and doors. I can't wait to get it finished and get it full!!! (that means more boxes unpacked)
Mom has great talents with landscaping. She (sometimes we), added some landscape to our backyard oasis. You can see in the background Chris's prized Plumeria's that we brought from the other house. They were out of the ground for almost 6 months and actually survived!!! All 6 of them.
This is mom's berm (who knows how to spell that one, not me!!). It means a raised bed. It sure does add a lot of character to the pool. We love it. They also bought us an early Christmas/birthday present to enjoy. Thanks for the great glider. It is perfect.

We love having them here, and are always sad to have them go. Thanks for all the talent you have taught us and all the wonderful things you have created for us. We love them all!!!

Morgan and many changes!!!

2010-06-24T15:41:00.004-05:00

Morgan turned 11 on June 18th. Where did my baby go? It has been amazing to watch her change and become a little lady whom we adore. She is still great and loves her family, the gospel, being a big sister (most of the time). She makes having 4 kids easier. I couldn't have asked for a better 1st child. The only things she wanted for her birthday were to get her ears pierced, and to decorate her new bedroom. Ears accomplished, bedroom is still in progress. It was a whole family affair to the piercing place with Morgan. She didn't even flinch during the whole process; what a tough kid! She picked our some pretty little diamonds for now(she is truly a girl) , and pearls for when she can change them. She hasn't stopped grinning since and loves her new addition.

Morgan graduated from 5th grade and is moving on to 6th grade (JUNIOR HIGH!!!). Here she is with some great kids she went to school with. Friends make all the difference. We have been lucky!!
Miss Smith has been a great teacher this year. We will miss her and her great teaching ability. On to bigger things now---Junior High. We wish her the best.

Alex is officially a Kindergartner!!!!

2010-06-24T15:33:00.003-05:00

Time sure does fly when your having fun!!! (or going crazy). Alex went to the same pre-school as Samantha and loved it. She didn't care about learning anything, but loved playing with friends. Here is Alex and her great sisters celebrating her success with her. I can't believe I will have 3 Boyer kids in school and only 1 little man at home. It was only yesterday that Morgan started kindergarten, and now she is going into junior high. Sigh......
Alex and her favorite teacher Miss Stacey.
Our little graduate walking down the isle. What a precious girl she has been.... Most of the time..... We can't wait to see how much she grows in kindergarten.

Like Father Like Son

2010-06-24T15:25:00.004-05:00

Chris LOVES the movies, and apparently Michael does too. I took the kids to "Toy Story 3" today and Michael actually sat!!!!!! He only kept his glasses on for about 1/3 of the movie (More than expected), ate a bunch of popcorn, drank most of my coke (and he is actually still napping!!), and didn't leave our row once!!

Pool Creation - The Reason We Moved

2010-06-01T10:39:00.013-05:00

Over the past two months we have been watching and loving our yard transform.

Digging The Pool Started Friday April 9th, 2010 at 7am - Ended that same day at 2:30 PM

Saturday April 10th, 2010, pipes in the pool.

Monday April 12, 2010, Put in the Re-bar

Tuesday April 13, 2010 Gunite

Wednesday April 28th - 29th, 2010 pluming and Electrical wires

Decking

Friday May 21, 2010 cleaning the pool and getting ready for the plaster

May 23, 2010 plaster the Pool

May 24, 2010 swimming in the pool.

100% Boy

2010-05-17T20:13:00.003-05:00

I broke my camera last year, and it has only been working 1/2 time, until I completely lost it!!! The kids love photography also (like father like kids), and Michael loves anything to do with electronics so somewhere between the 4 of them it came up missing. Surprise surprise!! My Dear Husband has been looking for a new camera, so I finally got one for Mothers Day (Thanks so much Chris). Now that we have photos again, we are back. (It's not like we don't have a few other cameras around the house, just not quite accessible when I want them to be, or as portable as my new one!!). I thought I would share a few photos of the little man we are all obsessed with, our Michael Luke.

During the pool construction (Which should be complete and filled next week!!!), our back yard has become a mud pit. As most boys, Michael has been in heaven. It is difficult to have him in the back yard and not end up just like this. It is fun to watch him wiggle his toes way down deep in the mud and not care one bit that he is dirty. It makes for fun hose time and bath time.

This boy loves to give kisses. WIDE OPEN, WET KISSES!! One day he might get the concept on closed mouth kisses. Until then, we just accept them and love everyone we get, slobber and all.
Our little handsome boy. It is quite different dressing boys for church vs. little girls. Quite easier I think. I think he looks great!! Who could resist this adorable little boy, dimples and all.
With the new house, much work is needed and the ladder has made frequent appearances. Michael loves to climb and has mastered up and down the ladder. It is fun to watch his excitement as he reaches the top again, and again, and again.

I will post more later about the rest of us at the Boyer house later. The girls are all swimming this year on the Barkers ridge swim team, Morgan will be graduating from 5th grade and moving on to junior high (I don't know if we are ready for this yet), Samantha is graduating from Kindergarten and Alex from Pre-School. Wow, a lot of graduations and milestones coming up.

Happy Easter

2010-04-04T10:10:00.002-05:00

We hope all had a great Easter. Here are the Boyer kids wishing you the best!!

Dreams do come True!!

2010-02-20T22:59:00.002-06:00

This year was incredible with the kids at Disney. We couldn't have asked for better ages (I guess they are all great ages). It was very fun to watch Sam and Alex just adore the every princess as they thought they were real. The twinkle in their eyes at all the great sights, firework displays, the many characters and shows is Magic!

Christmas evening after a special meet and greet with the characters.

Mickey and Minnie came to our hotel for 4 nights in a row for 4 hours each. It was a special treat. Michael wasn't feeling to great one night so we stayed at the hotel and hung out with Mickey and Minnie for hours as they played and winked at him all night.
Alex's favorite costume has been her Minnie costume. We just couldn't pass up this opportunity to get a great photo. I think she makes a great Minnie!!
We had a special visitor Christmas Eve. The girls had to put in their last minute request, which all were answered. Thanks to grandma for such special PJ's. What a great Christmas. We love Disney and Christmas, especially together.

Memories

2009-11-30T00:15:00.005-06:00

I'm sitting in my almost empty house and thinking of all the great memories we had here. Tomorrow night I will be in a new house which we are excited about, but a little bitter sweet. I love my house, the location (walking distance to the school), incredible neighbors with great kids, the playhouse and everything about it. Oh how it was perfect when we moved in 10 1/2 years ago. I was 7 months pregnant with Morgan and we thought we had a ton of room in our huge house. Oh how much time and 4 kids later changes things. All the memories from bringing all 4 babies home to this house, firsts of many things, holidays, home improvement jobs and much more. I'm not one for change, (hence not moving out of the ward or school!!) and changing my safety zone isn't easy. I just have to keep reminding myself about the great new changes, all the room we will have (I can't imagine growing out of this new house!), the great backyard and I know we will have some great new neighbors. The kids are excited about having their own rooms (now we will wait and see if they will actually sleep in them, or sleep together?). Chris and I area also excited to have more room and a place for all to enjoy.
A HUGE thanks to all that helped come help us pack the truck and help with the move. I told Chris that the hardest thing about this move was feeling helpless (especially with him being down with a broken ankle and no family around to help). I knew I couldn't do it alone, but I have a really hard time accepting help. I am a "do it myself" person, but this one I just couldn't do it all by myself. I had to be humbled and accept help. I greatly appreciate the ward 'family' and all you have helped with this past few weeks. Thanks so all who helped during Chris's ankle issue. It's amazing having family away from family. The Gospel and the Church (especially our ward) is incredible. How we love you all.

I know we will survive the next few weeks, it is just going to be a long road, but we will be making new memories.

Halloween at the Boyers

2009-11-04T21:22:00.004-06:00

Halloween has been a little different this year as we have no Halloween decorations up this year. (I guess that's what happens when you are trying to move and pack a house during the holidays. Let's just hope we can possibly get Christmas decorations up, at least a little). The kids couldn't wait for Trunk or Treat Saturday night at the church and to get all dressed up. I think we have gone through 5 costume ideas from star wars (Now that Chris has a Boy that can actually be "LUKE" he was looking forward to it), skeletons (thanks to grandma Boyer for the great PJ's), cavities (that's right, I was going to be the tooth fairy, Chris the Dr. and the kids all cavities!!!), several princess's, but none of that stuck. We ended up with:
Morgan as an Angel. Lexi Torbit her best friend was a Devil. What a cute couple.
Michael as the cutest Tigger ever!!!!! (he doesn't bounce, but is just as active)
Alex as Minnie Mouse (she begged to get her face painted, I thought she turned out great!), Morgan and Sam (She was going to be sleeping beauty, but she found a witch costume and a photo of a little girl with this painted face on Saturday morning and changed her mind. Thank goodness for a great dress up box)

"Oh Tootles!!!"
Chris was very proud of his great pumpkins. The kids couldn't wait to finally carve them. Michael even helped.
He decided to enjoy them in a different way. We really do feed our kids!!!

We hope you all had a great Halloween. We did!!!!

Time flies when your having fun!!!

2009-10-28T21:31:00.008-05:00

I love reading our friends and families blogs and catching up on the wonderful/fun/crazy things going on in there lives and finally realized that it has been a few months since we last posted. I hope we can catch up on a few things, so sit back and relax a little.

In August school started and our life got really crazy. I keep telling myself that I need to learn to say "NO", but I am still saying "Sure, I'll do that". So I said "Sure, I'll be PTA President". The girls love me being up at the school and being involved, but life is a little (or A LOT) crazy.

Sam started Kindergarten and is loving it. She has Mrs. Wilkins who is an incredible teacher. Sam is loving to learn about numbers, letters, words etc. She is learning her sight words great and enjoying school. She is definitely not my daughter when it comes to being on time. She absolutely HATES being late. It drives her absolutely crazy that Morgan gets up late and doesn't care much about being on time (Morgan is absolutely my child!!). Sam must take after her father in this case. Sorry no photo of her first day (they are on Chris's camera since I broke mine in Idaho and haven't gotten a new one, Sad day). Sam has been riding her bike with training wheels now for years and we finally decided to try it on 2 wheels. At first she said no, then I told her we could go to dinner at Texas Roadhouse if she tried and her answer quickly turned to Yes. So I took off her training wheels, she got on her bike and off she went. She hasn't stopped yet. We can't get her off it, any chance she gets she is either on her bike or her roller skates. (By the way.. I got out of dinner and made Chris take her to dinner of her choice, which was Taco Bell. She knows that is one of Chris's favorites and she loves to please her dad)

Morgan is in 5th grade and loving it. She is involved in Art club, Destination Imagination ( an after school club where they learn to work as a team, problem solving, using creative thinking etc and they have their first competition February 20th) She is very excited to also be working in the student run bookstore on Thursday afternoons. She came home and told me that Sam needs to bring money so she can come visit her. Morgan is doing great in school and loving her 5th grade class. She finally got to be with Lexi Torbit (her best friend). They are having a great time and have about 5 other girls that have grown up together in school all in the same class. What a fun last year in elementary they are having.

Alex started Pre-K at tiny treasures preschool (same school Sam went to last year). It is finally her turn to have friends and enjoy something outside the house other than church and big sister events. She wakes up every morning and asks if she is going to school today and gets ready with the big girls and is out the door almost earlier then them. We have seen such a different side of Alex with Michael. She absolutely adores him and wants to make him happy all day. She torments everyone around except him. She will dance, sing, jump up and down, make noises etc. what ever it takes to entertain him and make him smile or laugh. She is so proud of him and tells everyone about her baby brother. It's a good thing she is nice to him, because little does she realize that soon tables will be turned and he could easily take her down, but maybe he will adore her the same and be kind. She can only hope.

A few week ago at church the girls would not sit still, listen or anything. They wanted Michael's blankets to keep warm, all his snacks, you would have thought they were dehydrated by the amount of times they asked to go out for drinks etc..... So..... I told Chris that I was going to have them practice when we got home and he just laughed (now I am sounding like my mom). I told the kids on the way home that if they couldn't behave at church then they will need to practice. They didn't really think I was serious. Little did they realize. When we got home I put folding chairs in front of the TV and turned on the BYU channel (thank heavens for satellite) and made them sit for 30 minutes. Chris thought that was a little long, but I am stubborn and was going to prove a point. About 15 minutes into it, it was very quiet. I went into the living room and this is what I found.....
Morgan was actually listening to the talk and Sam and Alex were asleep. I had to laugh and just hoped I had proved my point. The next Sunday was great. On our way to church, all I had to do was remind them that if they didn't sit during church then we would have to practice 2x that week. They sat like almost perfect children. If they tried anything, all I would have to do was say "do you want to practice" and they quickly returned to almost perfect!!! We haven't had to practice again yet.

Now to our dear precious, adorable, wonderful, awesome, gorgeous, happy, son Michael (the list could go on and on). I would be rich if I had a dollar for how many times I said how 'stinkin cute' he is. We are loving this little boy. He is soooo busy, yet soooo content. He has the cutest smile ever and loves to show off his 8 teeth!!! With the help of Alex, he learned to climb to the top of the stairs within a matter of days. Fortunately for us it took him about 2 days to master coming down safely also. What a bright child!!! Grandma Boyer sent the kids these adorable Halloween PJ's with glow in the dark skeletons. Michael was the model this night. I do think he is cutest skeleton ever. (I might be a little prejudice, or a lot.)
Michael has discovered the dog door. He has only tried to go out once and got hi-centered, but has figured out how to make things disappear. He loves to sit by the back door with his box of toys and nicely place them through the dog door and poof!! they are gone. I have to do evening checks outside the door for missing items. Tonight Chris was looking everywhere for the DVD remote and couldn't find it anywhere. All of a sudden Sam says 'I know where it is' and went to the back door and sure enough, Michael was playing his magic tricks again.
Outside the door.
Michael assuming his position.

As far as Chris and I things are great. Chris finished his testing in July and they have decided to do more Radioactive Iodine treatment in July of next year to see if they can get rid of more cancer cells. The cancer is still showing up in blood work and rising a little, but they still can't find it anywhere on scans. It's hard to operate when you can't find what your trying to remove, so now it's a waiting game. It's not affecting anything and it's not serious, it's just "hanging out". As long as it stays that way we are great!! He just returned from Switzerland and enjoyed his visit (as much as you can while working). It was hard adjusting to the 7 hour time change, but kids help with that. It's hard to ignore them and just sleep. As far as me, I am loving my job. Dr. Frazar just purchased the laser that I have been drooling over for the past 7 years!!!!! I love being on the top with the technology. If you want to know more just ask. I love talking about it (just a warning, if you really don't want to hear a long explanation, then don't ask because I am just a little excited and will go on and on and on). School is good. We have an excellent board this year and they are all wonderful. I am very lucky to work with such great people on our PTA board. They make it a lot easier to survive and are all a joy to work with. I am learning to be organized and plan ahead (believe it!!!!). Maybe after this experience it will rub off on my life... the jury is still out on that one.

The biggest news yet... No we are not having another baby, but we are MOVING!!!!!. Not closer to home, just about a mile away (just across fry road). We are still in the same ward and elementary school (Chris was hoping to move out of the school. That way I wouldn't have to be PTA President anymore but no such luck). We have been thinking about it for years, but just didn't want to have to deal with showing the house (I don't think me or the kids would have survived months of keeping the house clean enough to show all the time, it was just not going to happen). With the rush in first time home buyers (thanks to the tax credit) we decided to bite the bullet and do it. Thank goodness we have been considering it for a few years now and have slowly been fixing the things around the house which made it easier to get ready to show. So we listed that house on Friday, October 16th. I had an all day craft day at church on the 17th so Chris had all the kids and was dealing with people looking at the house. He had to be out of the house from 10:30 - 5:00 and was an incredible dad. They went miniature golfing, to taco bell, to the fire station open house, to the movie and back to the church to help clean up after the craft day. (what a man!! That's why I love him so much). 3 people came to look at the house that day and....... We had a contract that night!!!!!!!!!!!!! I told Chris earlier that week that we were going to have a contract by Saturday and he just laughed. I was right!!!! This is one time he was willing to hear it again and again that I was Right!!!!! Heavenly Father knows me too well and blessed me in more ways than I can imagine. My sanity is saved for now (at least a few weeks until the move and unpacking begins). We are closing on our house on November 20th and have to be out of it on the 30th. That meant we had to find a house FAST. Our main house we had been looking at for 6 months didn't work out, but we found another great house just behind it which is right down the street from Torbits!!!! We couldn't ask for better neighbors. We had the inspection today and will hopefully close on that house on the 30th and be able to move in right away. We are very sad to be leaving our great house and neighbors, but look forward to having more space and an actual yard. We'll keep you posted on the move and new address.

I think this is about it for the last few months. I am impressed if you made it through this book. Hopefully I will be able to keep up more so that its not so long next time. I am planning on getting a new camera for me so that I will be able to post more photos next time.
Love lots to all and Have a great Halloween and Holiday Season!!!

8month old+coke and ice cream at 8:00 p.m. ==

2009-08-15T23:12:00.002-05:00

Happiest and cutest 8 month ever at 11:00 p.m. Why do we do things like this to ourselves? We just enjoy what we can get because he is growing way to fast.

On the Farm

2009-07-27T11:41:00.003-05:00

The girls are having a great time at the farm. I miss the days and just being outside and having it so peaceful (despite the 6 kids running around). The kids are loving being outside and not having to worry about the cars, heat, humidity, ants etc. They are loving playing in grandmas new waterfall and stream, playing in the sand, stacking grandmas many rocks, riding the 4wheelers (grandpa built a little train to pull behind which comes in handy with so many little ones), riding the horses and just running and playing on real soft grass. What a treat to come visit and take a break from our everyday life.
Alex has these great yellow rain boots that she wears everywhere, yes, even to church. They have come in real handy here at the farm (especially in the horse shed to escape the horse and cow poop).

Alex without her boots waiting and watching Morgan ride the pony named Rufeo.
Grandma showing Morgan how to control Rufeo. Notice the gorgeous sunset. A little different than past sunsets, but still beautiful.
Michael on Rufeo for the first time. I'm sure he is going to love the farm, just like his sisters.
Morgan loving Rufeo. Just her size.
Michael riding in the little train that grandpa built to go behind the 4wheeler. You can tell he is having a great time.
We could only fit 3 in the seat. We keep asking grandpa to build more, maybe next trip. Even on the farm the girls look for any reason to get into bathing suits. They were playing on the slip and slide at Aunt Courtney's next door. What a difference the slip and slide is when you actually have a little hill to put in on verses our flat flat ground.

4 hour layover and nothing to do

2009-07-19T19:09:00.011-05:00

So it has been a month since our last post and much has happened. We are sitting in the Phoenix airport with just Michael who is finally content laying on the ground now that he is mobile. We have our computers and Internet, so we decided there was no better time than now to finally update the blog (we needed something to occupy the next 4 hours). As if Hawaii wasn't a great enough vacation for the summer, we decided to take a road trip to Idaho and Utah to see family (that is a 27 hour drive each way with 4 kids, can you say CRAZY!!). We left Thursday morning at 4:00 a.m. and arrived in Park City Utah Friday morning at 4:30 a.m. The kids did great, especially while sleeping!!! Thank heavens for DVD players in cars and Nintendo DS's. Chris's parents have a time share in Park City right on the mountain which was beautiful. The whole family (except Ben who was in Ecuador with his sister) was up for the wedding which was beautiful. The girls had a great time playing with all the cousins. Chris's cousin Sara married a great guy named Scott Kimball. What a beautiful wedding and couple. Ann did an incredible job and we were so happy we could attend. The girls loved looking at Sara. She looked just like a princess!!

While in Park City we were right by the Alpine slides which the girls loved. They wanted to go faster!! Morgan and Alex also wanted to go on the bungee cord/trampoline. Here are a few pictures of the girls (and Michael) with there cousins and playing around in Park City.

Here is Carter (Barbie and Ben's boy who is 2 months older than Michael) and Michael. We were amazed how much they look alike (especially when in the double stroller together). It will be great for Michael to have a Boy cousin his age to play with.

Stefan and Sam on the Alpine Slide

Morgan doing flips and enjoying jumping high!!!!

Alex having fun not being strapped down.

This morning (Sunday, July 19th) my dad met us at the airport and picked up the girls. They can't wait to get to grandma and grandpa's house to get away from there parents (that' us). they look forward to this time every year. They didn't even look back when we left. I tried to talk mom into taking Michael too, but no such luck. Maybe next year!! (hint hint). So Chris, I and Michael boarded the plane for home. Michael and I will fly back to Utah Friday, July 24th (just in time for the great Utah celebration that we miss out on if you don't live there. I am excited for the kids to experience pioneer day in Idaho). We will then spend some time in Idaho and at a family reunion in Utah at Fish Lake. I am excited to attend the 'Famous Preston Night Rodeo' for those of you that know what that is. I am looking forward to the rodeo, parade, carnival, family, food and friends. After this needed vacation time, we will head home in the car. Ya'll better pray for us that we return home all alive (that could be questionable after that long in the car with no great incentive at the end).

Stay tuned for more photos and updates of our family vacation.

Swimming, Fish and Dancing

2009-06-09T01:50:00.006-05:00

Every morning at 7:30 we have the opportunity to feed the fish in one of the Lagoons. The girls love to see the fish and get close to them. This year we were able to see a few turtles and several crabs which the girls loved. Sam has her fish card to help find out what kind of fish we are seeing.
Morgan, Sam and Alex feeding the fish and getting closer to the turtles. (We are going snorkeling tomorrow and have an underwater camera so hopefully we can get some great photos of the turtles!!!)

Michael didn't know what to think about the sand. He did okay for a while, and then was ready to take a nap. The 5 hour time difference is not to nice with his sleeping schedule. I am not looking forward to getting him home and seeing what his sleeping will be like then.

Our little chipmunk storing up for the day with her chocolate muffin for breakfast. She can't hide anything as it all shows up on her face.
While we were swimming there was another family with 2 great girls from Cypress TX. What a small world. In the photo from left to right are Kate (9 1/2, 5 months younger than Morgan but a good foot taller) Sam, Morgan, Allie, (6 months older than Morgan) and Alex. Kate really adored Sam and Alex and became their best friends. Almost like a built in babysitter. It was so nice having someone to play with the girls and not have to worry about them. Kate is very tall and could carry the girls around the pool which they loved. They ended up coming with us to the preview/welcome meeting tonight. We look forward to spending more time with them this week.
The torch lighting ceremony with a story of fire and Hawaii. The girls were up front and center watching and enjoying every minute.

The chief who is a great entertainer climbing the coconut tree. Once he got to the top all the kids below started chanting "Jump, Jump, Jump" They really enjoyed the entertainment and are looking forward to the luau tomorrow night with the Chief.
The beautiful sunset from our window right before dinner. We could get use to a view like this.

Family Vacation in Hawaii!!!

2009-06-08T02:41:00.006-05:00

v Last year we were suppose to go to Hawaii with all of Chris's family and 2 weeks before we were scheduled to go, the airlines went bankrupt so we didn't get to go and we were all so disappointed. We were very excited to be able to go this year. The girls couldn't wait and have been so anxious to get here and spend time in the pools and on the beach. In preparation we all got our nails done. (It works great as a bribe). They love to get their nails done and find it a great treat. On Friday I was on a quest to get the girls some new flip flops (as Alex never has shoes, nor does not care to wear them. She takes them places and then frequently looses 1 of the pair so she needed some new shoes). After searching, I finally found some cute, simple flip flops at Old Navy. We got the girls up way early (4:30 a.m.) so that we could get to the airport early. They all got dressed (actually they slept in their dresses to make it easier) and got their shoes on. I had them all ready at the front door so there wouldn't be any mistakes, or so I thought. We get to the park n' fly to drop off the car and as we are waiting for the shuttle, I look down and find that Alex had 1 new pink flip flop and 1 old Dora flip flop on. So much for the great new shoes. Luckily we found another Dora flip flop in the car that she could wear(not the other matching pair, but at least it was Dora). Who knows why we try so hard sometimes.

We were looking forward to spending time in Hawaii with Chris's mom and dad, but unfortunately Margo (Chris's mom) spent Friday night in the ER with difficulty in breathing. She is feeling better, but was not able to come and we are missing her greatly. Ron was able to come and the girls are enjoying seeing their grandpa and love playing with him in the pool and on the beach.

The Beautiful sunset tonight (Sunday night). We went to the swap meet today to get souvenirs for the girls etc. and had to have the traditional shaved ice. I didn't get a picture of that, but am sure to get some later. Can't miss out on photos of shaved ice in Hawaii. One of our favorites.

Chris and Michael (this was Michael's fist plane ride and it wasn't the best. Long flight, tired baby, no need to say anything else). This is Micheal's first time in the pool and he seemed to enjoy it. He is going to be a water baby after the week is over. He was just chilling with dad watching the girls play in the pool. What a great background!!!

Morgan playing Uno with grandpa in the hot tub. He got this great game of water Uno. The girls are looking forward to playing many games with grandpa (Grandpa and Sam both love games, maybe that is where she got her game obsession from)

Sam and Alex swimming in their new bathing suits from Grandma and Grandpa Boyer (Thanks so much, they love them). The resort got a great new pool and the girls absolutely loved it. It had several areas were Sam could touch and she thought she was something else. Alex actually had to be nice to Sam so that Sam would carry her around and help her swim. It was great to watch them get along and enjoy each others company. I'm sure it will not last long. I can't count how many times people have asked us if they are twins in the last 2 days. What cute girls, but definitely not twins.

Toothless Sam

2009-05-25T00:26:00.008-05:00

My dear Sam had a run in with Alex today. They were at a friend's house and the next thing I know they were coming out of the house and Sam had a tissue to her mouth and Alex was holding her head. Alex got the better deal, her head was just slightly red. Sam on the other hand had knocked her 2 front teeth loose, almost out. Being the hygienist mom, I knew right away that we were going to lose them. She couldn't close her mouth or talk due to the 2 front teeth. Thank goodness she has a great Dentist (Dr Griffith on Fry and Westhiemer Parkway, strongly recommend to all) who met us up at the office to take a look at her. Even for being a Sunday afternoon, they were there within 45 minutes of me calling them, very impressed. They worked their magic tricks on Sam and she enjoyed her trip to the dentist, even if it meant getting the front 2 teeth pulled. Sorry for the up close pictures, but that is kind of what I like!! It's a good thing that she is a little ahead of schedule when it comes to teeth. Maybe she will have her 2 front teeth for Christmas!!!
Sam after the dentist. All smiles and feeling much better. I offered her $5.00 for her teeth compared to the $2.00 that the tooth fairy would leave for her, but she opted for the tooth fairy. Her first lost tooth, she was pretty excited. 2 for the price of 1. Unfortunately the tooth fairy couldn't find her teeth that she said she put under her pillow, but still left money. I have a feeling that in the morning, she is going to hit me up for the other $5.00 to buy her teeth from her. I guess she deserves it plus more for being such a brave girl. I don't know many kids who enjoy going to the dentist for cleanings, let alone extractions! She now has a real reason to eat ice cream for breakfast. She better enjoy it now, because it will not last long.

Dinner with Chris's New Diet

2009-05-25T00:13:00.004-05:00

Chris had to start an Iodine Free diet for the next 2 weeks for his testing with MD Anderson. Try cooking/eating anything without salt. That means no canned anything, no store bought bread, no frozen meals etc. This is actually making me think about cooking and menus. It Sucks!! He can have veggies/fruits and other things that take much preparation. So for dinner we had hamburgers (without the bun, his favorite seasoning and no KETCHUP). They actually turned out great with a lot of onion,garlic and iodine free salt!! One of Chris and Morgan's favorites is artichokes. Lucky for them, artichokes were on sale this week. They were the hugest ones I've ever seen. Sam and Alex decided that they would try them and realized they really liked them too. It helps having butter to dip them in. Morgan was teaching Sam how to eat them, what a great big sister. Alex decided to share with me. They all really enjoyed their artichokes and were wanting more. Maybe we will have to go back and get more for tomorrow. It does keep them quite busy and quiet at the dinner table.

Morgans choir concert

2009-05-24T23:55:00.004-05:00

It was so much easier when only 1 kid was involved in things. That way we could make sure we attended everything with the whole family. I now have a slight view as the chaos and struggle several of you deal with when kids are in all directions and you wish you had several of you to go around. Sam had her pre-school graduation the same time as Morgan's final choir concert. Who do you choose? Lucky for us, we had already seen one before and they were going to do a performance for the school during the day!!! That means that we can catch both kid's activities. We were able to go to the earlier performance and watch Morgan sing and then attend Sam's program later (without Morgan. she insisted on attending her choir concert due to a song about friendship and that would mean her partner would be alone. What a great friend. We did miss her at Sam's program). Here is a little clip of one of the songs. They did a great job with all their songs. She has really enjoyed choir, except for the early morning choir practice. Thank goodness they didn't kick them out after their 3rd tardy, or she wouldn't have made it past the 2nd week. (like mother like daughter). We are very proud of her and her ability to learn new things and enjoy life.

Sam Pre-School Graduation

2009-05-24T23:07:00.008-05:00

Sam was so excited for her graduation from Pre-School. She has come so far and has thoroughly enjoyed learning. I had Chris run to the store to get her some flowers (Yes, he can walk without crutches now. I might have a little more patience for him now that he can help a little. I was getting very short on patience and very frustrated without his help, I am sure there are several out there who understand). Anyways, Sam LOVED her flowers. It amazed Chris that such a little thing went so far with her. I guess she is like the rest of us girls, something so small goes a long way. She still comments on how much she loves her flowers and how they are so pretty. What a great, innocent kid.
Sam and Miss Tina, Sam's teacher. We have loved Miss Tina and she has taught Sam so much. We are hoping that Alex gets her next year too (knowing Alex, Miss Tina might request that she is in the other class!)
Here are all the graduates from both pre-k classes. What a great bunch.
Sam was so proud to go up and get her 'diploma' from Miss Tina. They had asked all the kids previously what they wanted to be when they grow up. Sam's answer was a teacher. She will make a great teacher one day.
Alex wanted to get a picture with her big sister and Sam kindly obliged. Alex really does adore her sisters. They wouldn't know as much as Alex torments them.

Sam was very excited to share with us her little song that she learned. She thought she was something wonderful in her cap and gown. The cutest graduate I've seen in a long time.

Catch up with Kids

2009-05-24T21:46:00.005-05:00

These are the moments that are few and far between of Alex and Sam actually enjoying each other's company. They found these towels that Grandma Boyer sent and decided they would finally play with them. They really enjoyed being witches. They have a lot of practice at that with each other, just without the costumes....

My dad came down to do more of my "Honey Do list, or Daddy Do List" so that I can get this house on the market. The kids sure love Grandpa coming because he always brings great treats (his fantastic jerky) and will always share his Pepsi with them. They have learned to bring him their cup and wink and he will share with them. Who can say "no" to their cute faces. Grandpa and Michael enjoying each other. Dad didn't take too many breaks while down here, but when he did he was smothered with kids. Who knows if he would consider that a break?
What a great little smile. Talk about some chunky cheeks. He is almost 6 months old and time has flown by. He is growing up so fast.
I love this stage. He finally enjoys laying on the ground and has discovered his feet. Sorry for the upside down photos. If anyone knows how to rotate photos once in here, please let me know.

Chuck E Cheese

2009-05-11T00:50:00.004-05:00

Since Chris's surgery Sam had been his little helper. As soon as he sits down, she brings his pillows and a drink and does anything he asks. It is a good thing she helps him, or he just might starve if he had to count on me. Since Sam has been so much help, he told her he would take her to Chuck E Cheese. We asked her if she wanted to go with just him, but she really wanted her sisters to come with her. What a great sister she is and soooo sweet. Morgan had some friends sleep over and then they decided to go swimming. We needed something to distract Sam and Alex so we decided now was the time to go to Chuck E Cheese. They had a great time. Michael even had fun watching and going on his first rides!! He is growing so fast. We look at him and wonder where this little blond boy came from. So much for being a little Chris look-a-like. Michael had so much fun that he was exhausted and fell a sleep despite all the noise.
Alex's favorite ride, the carousel.
Michael with Bob the Builder. I have a feeling we might be getting to know this character a little more in a few years.

Sam and Alex. You better remember this picture. They are actually sitting together and enjoying it. This does not happen very often.

What a chunk. He is getting so big. Love those great cheeks.

Happy Mothers Day

2009-05-10T16:42:00.007-05:00

We had great intentions for Mother's day. We actually made cards a week before and each girl signed them (even Alex). Well, they are still sitting in the kitchen waiting to be mailed out. Maybe one day I will actually get things done on time. We wanted to wish everyone a great Mother' s day. We took pictures of our cards so you can see what will be coming your way soon. Maybe we will just combine Father's day too; that one might just make it on time. Here are pictures of our cards (each flower is made with the girl's finger prints and Michael's finger or toe print, whichever one was more accessible at the moment. He had a nice blue toe for awhile).

New Addiction: Digital Scrapbooking

2009-04-08T00:27:00.006-05:00

During general conference I was playing around on the computer with a few things I had seen and had discovered something that I think I am going to love....Digital Scrapbooking. I have dabbled in it a little, but didn't have time to do much, but then I discover this way. I already love photoshop, and this is just one more thing to use it for. It was so nice to be able to do a page and when the kids came around, all I had to do was just shut my computer, and not clean up a bunch of paper, ribbon etc. So much easier and cheaper!! I would love any tips for all you pros out there.

I love my kids!!!

2009-04-07T23:44:00.007-05:00

One of the things I love about living in Texas is the wildflowers. It makes me smile as I am driving down the freeway or feeder roads and see such beautiful wild flowers. For the last few years we have started taking family photos in the beautiful state flower, the Blue Bonnets. (Sam informed me of this along with the state bird: the mocking bird, the state 'pet': the armadillo and the state tree: the pecan tree. Wow she is learning so much in pre-school!). We always go with the Torbits so that we can take each other's photos and enjoy the great company. We found a wonderful place this year in Bellville to take some great photos. They have never really turned out very good due to such small kids who do not want their photos taken, but this years are worth printing. I love them. We found a little park a few years ago with a merry-go-round, slides, teeter-totters etc and a nice rock wall/bench perfect for photos. I took advantage of the kids already being dressed for pictures and snapped a few extra at the park. I finally got the pictures that I have been wanting for years. Thanks kids, and Chris, for being so patient with me. I was joking with Chris and Maria that the girls are never going to wear another white dress after they leave this house (other than their wedding dress). I LOVE simple white dresses for photos and probably over do it a little, as most of the photos I have of them are in white dresses. You need a white dress, any size, I am sure I have a few. Enjoy the photos.

Take 3 and 4

2009-04-02T21:54:00.004-05:00

I spoke too soon. Last week I posted that Morgan had her glasses now for 3 weeks, which is a week longer than the 1st pair. That only lasted until Tuesday afternoon. I got a call from her teacher saying that Morgan broke her glasses and was shedding a few tears. Morgan then explained that her friend picked them up off the ground and they were bent and she tried to fix them and that's when they broke. Who knows how they got on the ground, but too late to worry about that. How far do you go to teach them responsibility, have them feel guilty, but not totally crushed and like they are just a disappointment to you? I couldn't make her wait a few more months because now I've realized just how bad she really does need her glasses, so we headed back to get another pair. Thank goodness for Eye Masters. 2 pair of kid's glasses (frames and lenses) for $99.00!!!!! I was nice and let her pick out cuter frames which were a little more, but she is the one wearing them. She picked something totally different than she got last month and they are darling on her (that isn't hard). So now let's see how long 2 pairs get us. At this rate I have until July until my insurance kicks in again and will pay for a new pair!!

Alex strikes again

2009-03-29T23:25:00.003-05:00

Alex decided that Michael needed a friend to sleep with. She is such a great helper. I am sure Michael enjoyed having a buddy to take a nap with .

I don't know of any other dog that gets tormented more than poor Katy. She is soooo loved by Alex and gets more attention than she would like. Alex found some sunglasses and decided that they would be perfect for Katy. I guess Katy thought so too because she didn't move at all, even after the glasses were on her she just sat there. She probably knows by now to just go with the flow with Alex and that she is probably much safer just sitting there than being chased. As far as the stickers, I was feeding Michael and turned around and Katy had been held captive and was nicely decorated by Alex. I just laughed, what else can you do when you have an Alex.

Michael was having a great nap on the chair in the living room. I guess being the 4th child, with 3 older sisters, it takes a lot to wake him up. Alex was trying her hardest to wake him by yelling "wake up Michael" right in his ear, but Michael did not flinch. What a great kid. We are so lucky to have such a patient child that is the best sleeper and can sleep through anything, even Alex.
This is Alex with her mischievous smile after she realized that he is not waking up and that she better stop before someone gets sent to their room.

Morgan's new additions

2009-03-29T23:10:00.006-05:00

Last year Morgan got a letter home from school saying that she needed her eyes check so we did and she definitely needed glasses. She had them for a whole 2 weeks and lost them while 4-wheeling. After hours of searching we realized it was a lost cause. I thought we would just wait until insurance kicked in again, but she really needed them for school. We finally got them again, so she can see now!!! She looks so cute and they have outlasted the last pair. Hopefully we can go at least another year before we have to get a new pair.

We were getting a cantaloupe ready to eat the other day and Morgan saw the seeds and thought she could grow something with them. I didn't' think much of it until a few days later she brought the camera in with this photo and was very proud of herself. I didn't even realize that she actually planted them with great expectations of them growing. What faith children have. She has been faithfully watering it, along with Alex. Now if we can only get Alex to leave it alone and not drown it with water and love, it might actually survive. That is rare for a plant at our house.

"I want it DEAD"

2009-03-29T22:53:00.004-05:00

I don't know why Chris wanted a boy so bad, because his girls are sure not "girly girls". I don't know too many girls, let alone boys, that love to play with bugs as much as his girls. They all love June Bugs and would love to save them all. I couldn't get them in the house the other night and went outside to find this. You couldn't get me to hold them, but the girls love them. Alex particularly likes, or should I say 'use to like' them. We were on our way to church one Saturday a few months ago for a primary activity and Alex had found a june bug from the previous night on the front patio and wanted to take it to the church with us. I tried to get her to keep it at the house, but she insisted it come with us or it will die. I refused to argue with her at this moment because she is soooo stubborn and I have learned to pick my battles with her. I was waiting to figure out what to do so I told her that she could bring the bug in the car, but it does NOT come into church with her. She agreed and got nicely into the car, bug and all. A few miles later, she started screaming that the bug was cutting her and that she was bleeding. (in reality the bug started to move and poke her and whether it was spitting or pooping, what ever you want to call the brown stuff on her hands). I asked her if she wanted me to roll the window down so that she could let her bug go and she agreed. She then THREW her bug out the window as she was yelling "I WANT IT DEAD". I got a great laugh because the whole reason the bug made it into the car was because it was sure to die if it stayed home so she must bring it with her to save it. So much for that.

Michael's First Haircut

2009-03-29T22:34:00.007-05:00

Michael finally got his first hair cut when he was 3 months old. That is about 1 month later than the girls got their first haircut. He was getting a great bush on top of his head, so I couldn't wait to cut it. It only took 3 of us. Chris took the photos while I held him in my lap and Maria Torbit helped hold him and tried to feed him to keep him happy and keep him from falling off the couch.

Here is his before photo with his nice head of hair.
This was quite the sight to see, but is was worth it.
What an adorable little boy. Alex can't keep away from him. She has to be in every photo. I do think he looks quite handsome with his new hair cut. It was fun to finally cut a boys hair, and be able to keep it short. A little different than the girls.

one word: ALEX

2009-03-03T23:40:00.003-06:00

I was telling Chris that it is a good thing that Alex is so dang cute, because she is soooo crazy. Saturday night after baths, Chris was combing her hair and she fell asleep. This is one of the only nights she actually went right to bed and didn't come down stairs a hundred times for something.
Poor Michael. Alex decided that her baby needed to be by Michael. Sitting by him would not satisfy Alex, her baby had to be on top of Michael. It is a good thing he is such a sport and puts up with her. She better be careful because one day it is all going to turn on her when Michael gets old enough.
It was very quiet in the house on Thursday so I went in the back yard to see where she was. She has talked Maria and Katy to come in the play house with her. Maria was holding Katy while Alex was putting lip gloss on Katy's nose. Katy was sooo patient with her and let her do it. Katy would just lick it off and Alex would quickly put more on. She then gave her a HUGE kiss. Lucky Katy.

How boring our life would be without Alex. We love watching her chaos and try to have patients with her sweet personality.

Our week in the Boyer Family

2009-03-03T23:22:00.003-06:00

Here is Samantha loving Michael. She is starting to do that crazy smile when ever a camera appears. I told her to just relax and say something stupid, in which she does, all with her teeth clenched tightly together so that she still has that same great smile. I forget how long it takes them to naturally smile again. Michael was just hanging out with Sam. He is going to catch up to her before long, she better enjoy him while he is still little.
What a cute little boy. I would be rich if I got money every time I just say to myself or Chris how dang cute Michael is and how much I love him and having a little boy. I didn't think I would love it this much. He is great.
When I came home from work last Monday, Chris was unpacking a box with his new toy, a PlayStation 3 and guitar hero. He just had to have a blue ray player, and bonus for him it was on sale and included guitar hero. I just smiled and thought great, another system. I would have to admit that the girls love it. I never thought that they would get into it, but they love playing with their dad. Now they just need to come out with a cute pink guitar, some cute kid songs and a modest innocent guitar player on the game. Who ever does that would be the hero of several mothers of small children who love guitar hero.
Last Monday, same day of Chris's purchase, Morgan was running on the playground and somehow ran right into a pole. She has a nice shiner. This was just the beginning. I really didn't think it would get much worse, but boy was I wrong. She was a great sport and would tell people she ran into a pole and put up with their great comments. She liked that fact that it kind of looked like she had make-up on. She can't wait to wear real make-up. Maybe this was part my fault due to me slacking and not getting her glasses again since she lost them a year ago. After this, I felt really bad and actually made her an appointment to get new glasses. I was amazed to see how much worse her eyes got in one year. Like mother like daughter. She can't wait to get her new glasses so that she can see what's in front of her, including poles. We'll have to post photos of her new glasses which she should be getting this week. She is thrilled to be able to see normal again.

Sam and Michael

2009-02-21T20:41:00.002-06:00

Michael, our happy little boy. He is already 2 1/2 months old. How fast they grow up. He is starting to smile and make such sweet sounds. he is such a great sleeper. We love having a baby, especially Michael.
Sam and one of her fascinations. She has several puzzles that she puts together several times a day. She would take a puzzle or game any day over watching a movie or cartoons. We just need more willing candidates to be her game buddies.

Happy 5th Birthday Sam

2009-02-21T19:41:00.004-06:00

Sam finally turned 5!!! She has been counting down the days and had her birthday day planned out, but forgot to tell us everything. After I had her cake ordered, she informed she wanted an ice cream cake, sorry girl, maybe next year. She had her birthday party planned, with invitation list and all a month ago, but her procrastinating mother had different plans. She couldn't wait to open cards she had received from grandparents for her birthday. We let her open them first thing for her birthday which got her day off to a great start. Sam, Alex and I then went to get our nails done, one of their favorite things (Some things they do take after their mother). For dinner Sam chose to go to CiCi's Pizza, one of their fathers favorites. We then got together with some friends for Sam's favorite thing, Cake and Ice cream. She loves cake, but not the frosting. She would have a cake for every little event if we would let her. Her cake this year was one of her favorite things, Monopoly. Sam loves games and puzzles and would play all day if she had that many captive audiences to play with her. Here are a few photos of Sam, our adorable, spunky, smiley, friendly, kind, anxious to learn, loving, sweet 5 year old. Wow how time flies when your having fun. Here is Sam on her 1st birthday. They grow up so very fast.
Sam on February 20, 2004, 1 day old!!
Morgan and Sam. Best buddies.
Sam on her birthday last night with all her presents. All she asked for was a cupcake maker until yesterday morning when their clock wasn't' working. She knew that Morgan really like her alarm clock so she asked for a clock for her birthday so that Morgan could have it back. What a kind sister. She did get both, plus lots more due to such kind friends. They made their first cupcake this morning, which they thought was the best cupcake ever.
Sam and her Monopoly Cake with 5 wonderful candles.
Sam told me that she wanted to go out side and we could turn the lights off and then tell her to come in and then we could all yell "SURPRISE". It is amazing what kids come up with in their minds. So we decided to have her go upstairs and we would call her down when everyone arrived for a surprise. Some great friends stopped and got balloons to surprise her for real. After everyone got here, we turned the lights off and told her to come down and then we all yelled "surprise". She covered her ears and then just smiled and was so happy. It was great to see the sweet innocence of children.
Pictures from Cici's Pizza. They always go with their dad, but don't get to play. He decided for this special occasion that they could play today. Pacman of all games, the best.
Sam with her nails drying. She always gets one hand and foot purple, and the other hand and foot pink.
Playing with her new toy from Grandma and Grandpa Boyer. She couldn't wait to open the package and new exactly what to do. Kids are way to smart for their own good.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY SAM. WE LOVE YOU.

Little Boy Overalls

2009-02-01T23:21:00.004-06:00

I have always loved little boys in overalls, so I couldn't wait to get Michael in a pair. He sure is growing fast, way to fast.

Morgan loves finally having a little brother. Here they are today on his blessing day.

Boyers Restaurant

2009-02-01T22:59:00.005-06:00

Boyer's Restaurant is now open for dinner.
Several months ago we bought some pizza dough with intentions of letting the girls make their own pizza (A staple at the Boyer's house). We finally did it tonight and the girls had a blast making their own pizza's and a even greater time eating them. It was very nice not having whining because they didn't like what I cooked, because they made it and knew they would like it. Maybe they should cook dinner every night!!! They loved throwing their pizza's in the air just like they see on TV. What great chef's they are.

Alex decided that she didn't want any sauce or cheese on her pizza. What a tasty dough and olive pizza. She did eat it along with helping the rest of us eat ours.

Michael's Blessing Day

2009-02-01T22:52:00.003-06:00

What a blessing he has been in our lives. It is great to have a new baby and the spirit they bring with them. We love watching the girls as they adore their baby brother. Alex is loving getting to be a big sister like her big sisters. They were all very excited for Michael to be blessed today. What a special day for our family to bless Michael Luke. We love our little family!!!!

Thank Heaven for Little Boys

2009-01-19T17:05:00.002-06:00

It is hard to believe that Michael Luke is already 6 weeks old. He is growing so fast and starting to smile and recognize people!! At his 6 week checkup (we kind of skipped the 4 week because we were in California, so we got him in as soon as we got back) and he already weighed 10lb 3 oz. and is 23 inches long. That is a total of 2 lbs and 3 inches since he was born. He is being kind to his mom and already sleeping from 10:00 p.m. to 5:00 a.m. which I am loving!!! I hope that it does not change now the I have said it. Everyone better knock on wood for me. I headed back to work last week working about 2-3 days a week which has been going good. I sure miss this little boy, but I am a lot nicer to my kids when I get out a little. These are a few photos of our little man. 5 1/2 weeks

6 1/2 weeks. Love the outfit (so they do have some cute boy clothes. I was going through withdrawal of not having bows, dressed etc. but we are sure enjoying the blue/brown/airplanes/dogs etc for boys). He has dark blue eyes, just like Alex and a great head of hair.

the Nut Tree for the little kids

2009-01-03T18:25:00.007-06:00

While visiting California we went to a great place called the Nut Tree. It was an amusement park for little kids which was great. All rides that they could ride. We went with Loralee, Barbie and their families and Grandpa Boyer and our little family. It was quite cold and humid, but the kids didn't care much because they were able to go on roller coasters, bumper cars, trains and more. Mazzy, Gavin and Hailey in the back of the rescue vehicle.
Alex and Sam riding their bike. You can tell that Alex was freezing, but not wanting to quit.

Alex and Chris, her best buddy, on the airplanes. It looks like Chris was having a better time than Alex. He was just a great sport to go on all the kid rides with them. What a great dad.

Chris and Sam in a head on collision with Morgain in the bumper cars.

Morgan is just like her mom. Can't go anywhere without the phone to talk to friends. She has made sure she stays in contact with her BFF Lexi Torbit. Lexi just happened to call while we were waiting to go on the bumper cars.

Grandpa Boyer and Alex on the roller coaster. This was on the way up. Her face was not quite as chipper on the way down and around the corners. She did love it and thought she was a big girl because she could go on the roller coaster just like her bigger sisters. Thanks grandpa for hanging out with us so that both girls could go on rides.

What cute little creatures. All the grand kids, but the 2 babies (Michael and Carter). This is a true picture. It sure is a circus with all the grand kids together. CRAZY!!!!!!!!!!!

Alex, Stefan, Sam and baby Michael on the train. Michael was probably the warmest out of all of us. I did enjoy the extra heater, that was the bonus of carrying the baby.

Gavin, Morgan and Alex on the Carousal. What kid doesn't like this.

Old Father Time

2009-01-03T18:06:00.002-06:00

My family has a tradition of Old Father time. We put our shoes under the tree (or by the fire place this year) and Old Father Time comes and brings you some candy and a little gift to celebrate last year and the new year. This year we spent New Years in California with Chris's family who do not have this tradition. We decided that we would still continue the tradition with our kids this year. I kind of forgot all about it until mid afternoon Morgan saw a small 1 foot stuffed Christmas tree and asked Grandma if that was the only tree that she had and then continued, "So I guess we have to put our shoes under this tree". All of a sudden I realized what was suppose to happen that night and had to make a quick trip to target. Things were all ready for my family when we got home and then Morgan ran to get Grandma and Grandpa's shoe's to which I wasn't prepared. Thankfully grandma and grandpa had things around the house that we could grab and they were instructed to act surprised and play along. Thanks to everyone involved, Old Father time was a success this year, even away from home.

Ron, Margo and all our families shoes in front of the fireplace after Old Father Time had visited. The girls all got matching Sweat shirts which are coming in handy in this chilly weather. I got new Pajamas since I only packed one pair and Dad got new sunglasses since his just broke and they are truly a necessity traveling.

Happy Birthday Grandma Gert

2009-01-03T17:05:00.003-06:00

The Boyer clan family photo taken on Grandma Gert's birthday. We are thinking of you and wishing you a great birthday. We love you tons.

(Left to Right by family) Barbie, Hailey, Ben and Carter Hall, Stefan, Michael, Chris, Alex, Morgan and Sam Boyer, Ron and Margo Boyer, Loralee, Troy, Mazzy, Gavin and Colby MacDonald.

Let it Snow

2009-01-02T19:53:00.004-06:00

All the girls wanted to do was build a snow man. Thanks to Aunt Courtney who helped them, here is their snow man. They were able to make him the night before we left Idaho. Thanks to Uncle Matt and Aunt Courtney for the snow man kit which helped them make a great looking snowman. Now the song "Once there was a snow man" has a lot more meaning for the girls. They are now waiting for a picture of their snow man shrinking to go along with the song "in the sun he melted, small, small, small." Morgan wanted a photo of her and their snowman so she took this one by herself of the two of them. I thought it was quite cute and a great photo.

Morgan, Alex, Sam and cousin Jessica with their snowman.

Stefan's mom and dad's new house surrounded by snow.

This was one of my favorite photos of the snow that Chris took. This was from my mom and dad's back porch. Wouldn't it be great to have this view out your back window. It sure it pretty all covered in snow.

Chris and Sam on the 4 wheeler. Once of the girls favorite thing to do is either ride the 4 wheeler or have grandpa or grandma pull them behind in the sleigh. Grandpa has sure got soft in his old days. Now he actually puts a pad the sleigh so it is softer and warmer. It's amazing what they will do for the grandkids that they didn't do for their own kids.

All the kids in the nice padded sleigh, from front to back, Sam, Alex, Cousin Colton, Cousin Jessica, and Morgan. Notice the nice thick padding under. Grandma was nice and took them slow. Grandpa went a little faster which was probably funner until they got dumped. Oh well. They enjoyed every minute in the snow.

Michael Luke's photo shoot

2008-12-26T20:11:00.005-06:00

After taking so many photos of babies, it was fun taking photos of our precious baby boy. This was a long awaited photo shoot for both Chris and I. The girls also enjoyed taking photos with their new little brother, who the thoroughly enjoy.

Our 4 great kids. We love them so much and their precious spirits. They are all so different and so fun. It is really fun to watch your own kids get a long and enjoy spending time together. They all love Michael Luke and are very excited to have a little brother. I don't know any other little boy that has better sisters.

Christmas Morning

2008-12-25T13:01:00.005-06:00

Christmas morning waiting for dad to get ready. They could hardly stand it and kept yelling at Chris to hurry. Alex, Morgan(her new American girl doll, Mia, that she just got the was suppose to be for her birthday,) and Sam.
This is a very rare sight at the Boyer house. They both had just opened their gifts from each other and were giving each other hugs thank you. Definitely a rare moment to capture.

Michael Luke by his stocking. Merry Christmas little one. We could have put him in the stocking.

Another picture of the girls waiting with Grandma, Grandpa, Aunt Courtney and Katy. Very Patient girls.

Christmas Morning in Idaho. There is a blizzard going on behind them. Something they don't see very often. They are loving the snow and lucky for us their snow suits/boots from last year still fit. They have already talked grandpa in to taking them on the 4 wheeler and sleigh riding. They are waiting for grandma to get dressed to go with them. She told them when it stopped snowing she would go with them.

Christmas road Trip

2008-12-25T12:41:00.006-06:00

The girls were suppose to go to Idaho this summer for the month of July to spend with Grandma and Grandpa Moser which I was looking forward to. Due to me quiting my job, my mom injuring her knee and several other things, the kids were not able to go on their trip. The baby was due just before Christmas so I was going to be on maternity, Chris would have 3 weeks paternity leave and Morgan was going to have a few week off of school so we decided to take a road trip at Christmas to visit family, so here we are. We took off Saturday morning, December 20. After 2 days traveling (stopping in Oklahoma for one night) we arrived in SLC at Chris's Aunt Anne's house at midnight. We were fortunate to spend 2 nights and the day with Anne and the girls, Sarah, Dianne, and Grandma Gert. We were able to go to dinner with the rest of the family including Callie and Andrew. My girls loved meeting and getting to know their dad's cousins better. Sam is planning on "the girls" to come to her birthday party. She doesn't get reality that they live far away and will not be able to attend, but she adores them and wants to invite them. After dinner we were able to take the girls to Temple Square to see the lights. They have added so many lights and nativities this year is was incredible. It was quite cold, especially for us Texans, so we were not able to spend a lot of time viewing all the sites, but the girls thought it was awesome. Here are some family pictures with Michael all bundled up, and the girls with Dianne, their new best friend.

Grandma Gert meeting Michael Luke for the first time.
Alex, Sam and Morgan in their beautiful coats from Grandma Boyer and Alex in her cute hat from the Tempest. They were playing in Anne's back yard. They couldn't wait to get out and play in the snow. We had packed all their warms shoes on top of the car and only had their crocks in the car which are not exactly great snow shoes. We had to go to payless and get some shoes that allowed them to play a little in the snow. They loved the snow and would have stayed out all day if we let them.

Our family on temple square with the lights. It was beautiful. Great memories here.

Morgan, Sam, Dianne and Alex. Dianne was such a great sport with these girls. Thanks Di. We love you.

Sam's Christmas Concert

2008-12-25T12:03:00.003-06:00

Sam is going to pre-school 2 days a week and has been working on 3 christmas songs for a month now and has been singing them everyday, all day. She sang Up on the roof top, Away in a Manger and We wish you a merry Christmas. It's too bad I don't know how to upload video yet so you could see how great she did. She was so proud and sang every word. We were very lucky to have Grandma Boyer visiting to attend both Sam's and Morgan's Christmas concert. Here a a few pictures of that day of Sam and Alex in the manger, and Sam and her teacher whom she adores.

Morgan's Choir Concert

2008-12-17T10:10:00.002-06:00

Morgan had her 1st Choir concert at school. She was very excited and has enjoyed singing in the school Choir, "The Stallion Singers". Last week they were able to perform at a retirement home and at Katy Mills Mall which she really enjoyed. You really can't see her in this photo. She is the shortest one on the front row with her head turned. I wonder where she does or doesn't get her height from. Poor kid. I told her that she would enjoy being petite one day, just not right now.

Christmas Decorations at our House

2008-12-17T09:51:00.002-06:00

Those of you that know me, know that I love Christmas, especially the decoration and normally go overboard. This year is a little different. With a new baby, going out of town, and just being busy with school and preparations for Christmas and traveling, we have not even got out 1 Christmas box of decorations. Feeling guilty because the kids are dying for Christmas decorations, we got some candy canes and Grandma Boyer helped them make reindeer to decorate our lonely tree. The girls had a fabulous time doing crafts with grandma and loved decorating the tree. The comment every time they pass the tree about how beautiful their reindeer are. Sorry kids for being a lame mom this year as far as decorations go. That's just that much less I have to worry about taking down when we return from our Christmas vacation, which I am okay with that part.
The girls and their 3 boxes of beautiful reindeer. They were very proud of their creations.

Precious Michael Luke. Chris is telling us we can't call him Michael Luke, that we have to decide on Michael or Mike. The girls are having a hard time with this as they have only known him as Michael Luke. We'll see how long it take us to narrow down his name.

Kids, parties and concerts

2008-12-17T09:20:00.007-06:00

Chris keeps on me to post something new, but we have seemed to misplaced our camera which makes it difficult to take photos to share. This week has been great. My mom and dad came down and spent a week with us. The girls and Michael really enjoyed them being here. Sam especially, as she made mom and dad play close to a hundred games of Monopoly Junior (which she calls Monochio). She apologized to my mom for making her play so many games, and my mom said "that's okay Sam, I love to play games with you". Sam was very excited and quickly said, "then can we play another game right now". My parents left Saturday morning and Chris's mom came Saturday night. The girls are having a great time with their Grandma Boyer. She came just in time for the Christmas parties and concerts. Thanks to grandma, who always has her camera, we have some photos to share.

Sam had her Christmas party as school and Alex was able to attend with us and was invited to have a cookie too. She thought she was in heaven being able to be like her big sister.

Sam with her cookie. She does not like frosting, but had her cookie and sprinkles.

Michael in his great little outfit from Aunt Barbie. Isn't he a cute little man. We are kind of prejudice. We are thoroughly enjoying our little boy. The girls are loving him too and are great with him. He has been a great baby. Not sleeping to well at night, but getting better. It is fun as he is becoming more alert during the day. He is such a content baby. We couldn't have asked for a better one.

Meeting his new best friends

2008-12-05T08:28:00.004-06:00

The girls were very anxious to come meet their new baby brother "Michael Luke". It will be interesting to see what he gets called. As of right now, he is known by Michale Luke due to the girls. Chris went home and brought them all back to meet their new brother that they all of been anticipating meeting for sooooo long. They rushed to my bedside to see him and then just malled him. I already feel sorry for him when he gets home and they get to see him all day, not for just a few hours. Alex holding him for the first time. The girls were great about sharing him and taking turns. We have to watch Alex with her short attention span. She will hold him and then just say "I'm done" and let go. Boy is her life going to be turned upside down when Michael goes home.

Morgan holding her new baby brother. She is very excited to have a new baby in the house. One that doesn't get into her "stuff" right now.

Sam and Michael Luke. Sam is at the same age Morgan was when we had Sam. I thought it was fun to see the same gap between Sam and Michael. She already adores her baby brother and is going to be sooo much help.

Chris with a perma grin. You can't wipe this smile off his face right now. It is his birthday today and he couldn't be happier about his early birthday present, His Little Boy. He didn't want to leave the hospital last night and leavy his baby boy. He is a little anxious to get up here today to spend the day with him already. I'm sure he is imagining his little scouter already and planning his ealge project and all the campouts in their future.

This is when the girls met him for the first time.

Our happy family of 6. Holy cow that is a lot of kids. Morgan said last night, "mom, can you believe you have 4 kids?". I can't, but we love them all and wouldn't trade them for the world.

Michael Luke Boyer joins his family out in the open

2008-12-04T12:37:00.006-06:00

The long awaited arrival of a Baby Boy Boyer is here. Michael Luke joined us at 11:37 this morning at 8lbs and 20 inches. He is a chunky baby with fat little fingers (unlike his sisters), a head full of brown hair and already sucking his hands. Everything went great as far as the delivery. We arrived at the hospital shortly after 6:00, pit started right after 7:00, broke water at 8:30, epidural at 9:15 and baby born at 11:37. Could't have asked for smoother delivery. Chris is elated to finally have his baby boy.

Lions, Tigers and Bears

2008-11-21T07:34:00.003-06:00

Sam decided the other day that she was going to pretent to be a lion. She disappered for a few seconds and then came out with this lion mane. I couldn't stop saying gross and laughing at the same time. She didn't care at all that this is really a toilet seat, and who knows what is on it, she just thought it made her a beautiful lion. Alex saw sam and had to run upstairs to fetch the other one so she could match her big sister. (For those of you that have 2 little ones, you know you have to have 2 of the same things to avoid major and frequent arguments, at least in our house)

Alex and Sam's daily attire

2008-11-18T21:26:00.006-06:00

We must thank Aunt Barbie for this Dress. She sent it this summer for Alex's birthday, and Sam adopted it and now wears it almost everyday. Sam goes through phases where she finds here favorite outfit and will wear it for months at a time and it's all we can do to get it at night and wash it in between bedtime and morning. She absolutely loved this dress because it is pink and purple, her favorite colors. Alex has a fascination with bathing suites. For those of you that see her frequently you have already noticed this. It doesn't matter the weather, she will get up in the morning and put on a bathing suit (normally we go through 2-3 a day). I tried to get her to wear real clothes, but decided that was a never ending battle that I choose not to fight. We finally came to terms that when we go out in public (shopping etc.) she will let me slip a dress over it so we don't get to many stares.

When I came home from work today, mind you the weather is around 60 degrees, a little chilly for Houston, this is how I found Alex. She had her sweater on and wanted her boots on so that we could go out. It didn't take her long to realize that she might need something else to keep her warm, so she added a white skirt to her ensemble.
Alex definitely has a mind of her own, and we love it. (most of the time) She loves to have photos taken of her and loves to pose for them. What a cutie.

Morgan's 4th grade concert

2008-11-18T21:18:00.002-06:00

Last Thursday, November 13th Morgan had her 4th grade concert. She was very excited and has really enjoyed singing. She joined the choir this year and now we catch her singing all the time, which we really enjoy. Their concert was a patriotic show of an assortment of songs. Morgan learned the Star Spangled Banner and many other songs. Her best friend Lexi Torbit was also in the concert with her. Morgan and Lexi after their program.

Alex's Fascination

2008-11-09T19:31:00.003-06:00

It wouldn't be a strange thing at our house to open the fridge and find a small Ziploc bag in the door with some obscure thing like toys, glasses, rocks etc. in it. Alex has a HUGE fascination with ZIPLOC bags. She is always putting her little treasures or things she wants to keep or what ever she has in her hands at the moment in Ziploc bags. She will then often put them in the refrigerator. Today, Sunday she only filled 2 Ziploc bags, so I decided to take a photo to remember this phase by. Alex with tissue in a Ziploc bag

Alex with a hair band and a toy container in her bag.

As you can tell, we go through Ziploc bags rather quickly at our house. Thank goodness my brother keeps us in stock from his job.

Breakfast at the Boyer's

2008-11-09T15:33:00.007-06:00

Sunday morning this is what I saw. The girls had all gotten up and I was getting ready for church. I went out to ask the girls what they wanted for breakfast and this is what I saw.

Morgan, Sam and Katy

Pop tarts is one of their favorite things to eat. Pop tarts are okay I guess, not that healthy, but at least they are eating something.

I then see Alex with this...

Alex and her favorite 'CHOCOLATE'.

She will eat anything that has chocolate in it, on it or anywhere around it. She is a true chocaholic. Great breakfast Alex.

Friday Night Football Game

2008-11-09T15:21:00.003-06:00

So Friday night we took the girls to a local high school football game to do something a little different. Morgan was going to go with Torbits, which meant Chris and I had to entertain Sam and Alex which can sometimes be challenging. The football game sounded a little more exciting than watching sponge bob and dora all night so we invited ourselves along to the game.

Ken Torbit and Alex.

As soon as we got to the stadium, we were asking Alex to hold our hands while we maneuvered our way through the parking lot. She can be a little (who are we kidding), Very stubborn and refused to hold mine or Chris's hands. She insisted on holding Ken's hand and hung out with Ken for a majority of the time at the game (they actually share the same birthday, just a few years apart). She adores the Torbit family.

Sam and Lexi Torbit with beautiful white and green hair.

Holly Jiron brought the pom pom's and was very kind to share them with the girls who thoroughly enjoyed waving them, and using them for hair.

(Chris better watch our or he is going to have some cheerleaders for daughters)

Morgan, Sam and Alex

Within a few minutes of pulling out of the parking lot this was the view in the back seat. Maybe we should do this more often. We all had a great night (at the game and great night sleep)

Baby Michael Luke

2008-11-03T21:27:00.008-06:00

Here are a few photos of our 4D ultrasound. We thought it would be fun to take the kids to see him so that they could get a better idea of what is really in moms tummy. Morgan and Sam really enjoyed seeing him and can't wait to meet him. Alex just wants to shake him and wake him up. They are all very excited to be getting a baby brother. Every time I go to the Dr. they ask if they are going to take the baby out. I don't think they have a clue how their lives are going to change with this new addition.

Here is our new baby to arrive on December 4th. Chris chose the name of Michael Luke Boyer. (he would add a 2nd middle name of 'skywalker' if we would let him)

The kids really enjoyed seeing his hands and feet. It is amazing how squished they are, yet find a way to move around so much and push and shove their way around. He kept grabbing his feet and just hanging on to his toes. It was fun seeing him wiggle his toes.

Chris vs. the tractor

2008-11-02T21:03:00.002-06:00

Chris was invited back to BYU for recruiting 3 weeks ago. Since my sister just had a new baby I asked him if he would please go visit them and take pictures of baby Winnie. He kindly agreed, which he just might regret. While he was there, my dad needed help putting in a new fence behind their house. My mother was going to help him, but since Chris was there, he got talked into helping dad. As Chris was holding the fence post while dad was using the tractor to push it into the sand, the front end loader fell off the tractor and chris jumped out of the way, but not fast enough. The bucket landed on his right foot causing some major pain. After big time shock and a trip to the emergency room, nothing was broken, just very swollen. 3 weeks later, he is still limping, but finally moving around again. It is not a fun house with his foot being swollen and not being able to do much and me being 8 months pregnant.

Samantha's Award

2008-11-02T20:55:00.004-06:00

Sam finally started pre-school this year. She is going Tuesday and Thursdays and is loving it. After about the first week she decided that she didn't want to go anymore because they made her write her name all by herself, which she didn't know how to do. After practicing at home and school, she has finally mastered her first (only Sam) and last name. She now writes it everywhere, even on places it shouldn't be written. Just like everything that Sam does, as soon as she learns something new and decides she like it, she goes full force and accomplishes great things. She came home one day and told me that she was getting an award. I just thought, sure, we'll see if it really happens. Sure enough. The next day her teacher asked me if she told me she was getting an award that day. Sam got the "Most improved" award at school. Her teacher said that she is learning her sight words (from kindergarten, colors, letter sounds etc.) which totally shocks me. Sam didn't even know 1 letter before August, now she knows several. Way to go Sam. We are all very proud. Sam and Ms. Tina with her award

Trunk or Treat!

2008-11-02T17:30:00.003-06:00

So I thought it was about time we put something up here now that this blog has been created for about 2 years. This was the extent of our Halloween. We went to the church for the annual "trunk or treat" which we love. As for the kids costumes, they changed on me several times this year. They have been planning costumes for about 6 months now (can you tell they were a little excited about Halloween. They must get that from their dad). Sam wanted to be a cat and then Morgan decided she wanted to be a dog so that she could "chase" Sam. Alex just went along with her sisters and decided that she would be a purple pig (to stay in the animal category). We normally dress up as a family, so I thought that Chris and I could just dress up was farmers to stay with the theme the girls chose, and it was something I could pull of being 8 month pregnant. About 2 weeks before Halloween, Morgan decided that she wanted to be a surfer girl. Go figure that one. Then Sam decided that she wanted to be a pink fairy, very specific, and Alex couldn't choose between tinker bell and a butterfly. So much for their 6 months of planning. So here a a few pictures of our final Halloween costumes.

Morgan as a Surfer Girl!

Alex as a butterfly!

Sam as a Fairy (nice posing)! Sam asked me where my fairy dress was. I told her that they don't make fairy dresses for big pregnant women. She didn't understand why I wasn't dressing up too.

Happy Halloween. Here is the girls (and Deanna, Maria's daughter (the babysitter)) and their great dad!

2008-09-19T15:42:00.001-05:00

2006-08-11T09:38:00.000-05:00

Here we are!!