4 Boys 4 Life

Report Card

2011-06-26T22:27:00.000-06:00

Just have to brag about my awesome 13 year old who ACED his first year in middle school. Congratulations, Kyle, we love you and are so proud of you! Keep up the great work and you will go far in this life!

Father's Day From the Mouths of Babes...

2011-06-19T14:45:00.000-06:00

So Carson is in primary today and they asked the kids, "What are some of the jobs that dad's have?" Nobody answered so they asked, "Think about it, what are some really hard jobs that your dad's do at your house?" Everyone was quiet until Carson, my ever-helpful 10 year old, speaks up and very seriously says "Dealing with their wife." Needless to say, all the teachers were in stitches and Carson sat there completely confused as to why it was so funny! Gotta love my boy - telling it just like it is :) So.... Happy Father's Day to all the awesome dad's out there that are "dealing with their wives" :)

One Year Older!

2011-06-05T16:59:00.000-06:00

Birthdays!!!

2011-06-05T16:57:00.000-06:00

Kyle Koch, 13 Years old. February 15.
Wanted an Ipod Touch & Cinnamon Rolls - No Cake Please!

Ryan Koch, 4 Years Old, March 20.
Had a huge combo Super Hero party with his friend, Bridger.
Waving the candles out because I have a cold and don't want to share it!

Carson Koch, 10 Years Old, March 29.
Also wanted Ipod Touch!

Cole Koch, 7 Years Old, May 13.
Wanted Huge Party - Happy to accommodate at Jungle Jims & our house!

Hailey & Me In Colorado!!!

2011-04-07T21:51:00.000-06:00

This past weekend I went to Colorado to visit with my very dear and close friend and confidant, Hailey Babcock. It was my early Mother's Day gift from Chris and it was the best gift ever! We drove there and I flew back 4 days later. She teaches pilates with a Reformer machine and let me join one of her classes. I am still hurting - what a wimp! We talked and talked for hours on end, watched chick flicks & Food, Inc. (highly recommended unless you ever want to eat again), ate at waaayyyyy yummy French Brasserie Ten Ten on Pearl Street and Larkburger (yummmmmmm), stayed up way too late, exercised, ate too much good-for-you food, made granola, homemade wheat bread (grinding the wheat yourself), homemade guacamole, and to-die-for sugar cookies! I brought home wonderful new skills, great recipes and many wonderful memories....thanks, Hailey, for everything!!!

Ok, I am not the brightest tool in the shed...ripped off my entire nail - roots and all - when helping Hailey to move a basketball stand. Can honestly say I now understand why ripping out fingernails is an effective form of torture. Truly a painful experience - let's hope it grows back...yes, that is my fingernail next to my finger in the picture ...OWWWWCHHHH!!!!!

My Big Brother, Dirk

2011-02-18T00:34:00.000-07:00

I just received the news that my sweet, wonderful, christ-like brother, Dirk, just passed away from his brave battle with adrenal cancer. I am filled with sadness for all of those he left behind. I know he is at peace and filled with joy where he is. I know the Lord took him home to do His work because he was such a wonderful man and had proved himself worthy of the Lord's kingdom. I know his time on earth was cut short because he was needed there more than here. I know he is at peace and filled with joy in our loving Heavenly Father's kingdom. I know that I will see him again because Families are Forever. I am so thankful for all this knowledge!

I am so proud of him and the example he has set for me and for our family all of my life. He will always be remembered as the Spiritual Giant in our family. He has done so much for each of us and set an unwavering example of faith and righteous living. A few things I will always remember about Dirk....

My children loved him dearly! Every time he came to visit our home, he played with them. I am not talking about 3 minutes of hide and seek, I am talking about running around, throwing them in the air, wrestling with them and talking to them for hours! They each know him and love him even though he lived across the country. He made a true lasting, loving impression on my children!
He quit his lucrative job as a big-shot attorney to stay home more with his family as they went through their teenage years. All of his children are successful, beautiful, truly happy people and I believe it was because of his and Laura's unwavering dedication to them growing up. Thank you, Dirk, for setting this example for me!
He always put the Lord first in his life. In every decision he made, he made it with the Lord's approval first. He was super smart and learned both in worldly and spiritual matters. I never tired of hearing his thoughts and opinions on anything - he knew so much and was so humble!
I cherished picking his brain for child-rearing help. He inspired our "one-on-one" time with our kids at night and our "daddy dates" each week. I pray each day our children will turn out as wonderful as his and Laura's have! I pray he will help watch over and guide them as their "Guardian Uncle Dirk Angel" as they grow up!
He loved law and making a difference in the world through his work. He loved learning and using his mind. I want to be more like him in so many ways!

Good-bye, my Big Brother Dirk....I love you and I miss you so much! Until we meet again....your little sister, Jody

Christmas!

2010-12-29T11:28:00.000-07:00

We had a very memorable year this year! Christmas Eve started things off with the traditional Christmas Eve party at my parent's church with presents and lots of family! Woke up Christmas Day at 7AM and opened everything in less than 20 minutes and then played played played all day until we went to Chris's parents for dinner and more presents and my parents for more presents and then back home for more playing. It was wonderful! We feel very blessed to have so much to be thankful for and to enjoy our families! Merry Christmas Everyone!

You know your children are growing up when ... they ask for Waterpiks and pillows and comforters and cologne for Christmas! Glad the XBox games made it, too! :)

Halloween 2010

2010-11-11T06:25:00.000-07:00

Halloween was a lot of fun this year! We had our traditional pumpkin carving party and then dressed up and begged for candy. Kyle decided he was too old to Trick or Treat, so he sat on the porch and scared little kids and watched scary movies with mom nearly all night. It was a wonderful time and a memorable year!

Sadie, Our Ferret

2010-11-11T06:15:00.001-07:00

For those of you who don't know, our little darling ferret, Sadie, contracted Insulinoma and was suffering so we had her put to sleep in early September. It was a very difficult decision and so sad for everyone - especially mom. I guess that is the good thing about having 4 boys, their tears lasted a few minutes and mine are still coming. We miss her very much! I keep finding myself thinking, "Where's Sadie?" ... all ready to play "find the ferret" that we have played millions of times since bringing her home to our house. I never thought I'd miss playing that game....but I do - she was a truly lovable, sweet little pet!

Football!

2010-10-11T13:57:00.000-06:00

And I thought Kyle was too small for football - was I wrong!! He started this Fall with a bang playing football with his friends from school and has learned a lot and gotten a lot of bruises. I told him he needs to run faster so no one can tackle him - he does most of the time! I spend most games in knots hoping he doesn't get hurt. What a multi-talented kid! There is nothing he can't do and nothing he won't try at least once!

Boondocks!

2010-10-11T13:51:00.000-06:00

One Last Summer Blast at Boondocks before summer vacation was over - very fun and sad!

We loved this summer and can't wait for next year!

Moosehorn!!

2010-10-11T13:48:00.000-06:00

Summer simply wouldn't be summer without a couple of fishing/hiking trips to Moosehorn in the Uintahs with Grandma & Grandpa Christensen! Everyone caught fish and ate them - Yummy!!

Capital Reef National Park

2010-10-08T08:35:00.000-06:00

More Summer Fun at our annual Capital Reef National Park trip! It's all about "who you know"! Our friends have an awesome cabin down there and we spend time with them there at least once each summer. These are pictures of a steep hike down to a beautiful area with cliff-jumping. Ryan would have loved to jump, too, but mom was too nervous to let him.....maybe next year...or the next....

2010-10-08T08:30:00.000-06:00

We can't go an entire summer without some kind of stitches/accident. Cole volunteered for this year .... again. Smacked into the counter when trying to hold his food away from the dog, Zoe. At least it was in his eyebrow and there were only 5 stitches this time - all on the top! We are grateful for small stuff - big stuff, like skull fractures, scare mom!

2010-10-06T18:58:00.000-06:00

We had so much fun riding bikes, hiking, and swimming at my Aunt Marge's all summer long! We couldn't get enough of being outside! It was wonderful!

Summer Waterskiing

2010-10-06T18:52:00.000-06:00

Cole, Carson, and Kyle all learned to waterski and I even re-learned to wakeboard this summer! It was just awesome!

Thanks to my brother Chad & family for donating their time and boat to our waterskiing cause - they are the best!

It was a true highlight of our summer this year!

Summer Sports!

2010-10-04T23:09:00.000-06:00

And The Race Is ON....

Long Jump

Shot Putt

Go Cole!!!!

Carson Loves Soccer!!!

Kyle Makes His Move!!

Summer just wouldn't be the same without summer sports! Kyle made a name for himself in his Track & Field Events - amassing over 15 ribbons over the summer - several in first place! Cole tried Soccer for the first time and loved it so much he is doing it again this Fall! Carson also tried Soccer for the first time and surprised us all with his natural ability so much that he is also doing it again this Fall. Kyle continued to amaze us with his Soccer skills as well and Ryan got to watch them all and get very excited to participate very soon!

Cole Loses Teeth!

2010-10-04T22:50:00.000-06:00

Cole finally lost his first teeth the very "un-traditional" way after growing in his permanent teeth first and refusing to let the baby teeth go in front of them. Thanks, Mr. Dentist, for helping us out!

Cole Turns 6!!

2010-10-04T22:44:00.000-06:00

Cole turned 6 years old on May 13! He is such a happy little person and wants to choose the right and make everyone happy! We love him so much and look forward to many more years raising this #3 son! He celebrated with lots of friends at Classic Skating!

Easter 2010!

2010-10-04T22:41:00.000-06:00

We love celebrating Easter every year at our grandparent's homes! It is my favorite holiday since there are so many wonderful traditions!

Carson Turns 9!

2010-10-04T22:37:00.000-06:00

Carson turned 9 on March 29th! He is an amazing kid with such a bright future! I am so proud of him! He celebrated with lots of friends at a pool and late night party.

Ryan Turns 3!

2010-10-04T22:34:00.000-06:00

Ryan turned 3 on March 20 and I am just getting around to getting my postings updated. Bear with me and my busy busy busy life! It was a great day with celebration all around with grandparents and family and, of course, Zoe :) My baby isn't such a "baby" anymore :(

Hawaii!

2010-03-28T23:24:00.000-06:00

Chris & I celebrated our 15 Year Anniversary in Hawaii this past month! It was absolutely AMAZING!! We left the kids home with their grandma and grandpas for the first few days and then their cousin, Lacie, came over during her Spring Break from Utah State College. They partied hard and had an absolutely fantastic time without us around!! They miss her and wish she would come back very soon!

Since we had never been to Hawaii before, we decided to spend 3 days in Oahu and then take a cruise with Norwegian Cruise Lines around the major islands and get a taste of them all! In Oahu/Honolulu, we hiked Diamond Head, snorkeld at Hunauma Bay, spent a day at the Polynesian center and bought shaved ice from Matsumotos. It was all AMAZING!! Then we got on the cruise ship and spent two days in Maui on the beach snorkeling with the sea turtles and gorgeous fish and a day driving The Road to Hana and swimming at the 7 sacred Pools – totally awesome (except Chris lost his wedding ring when diving into the pools)!! Then we spent a day biking the Volcano National Park in Hilo and a day snorkeling a coral reef in Kona. We spent two days in Kauai hiking the Na'Poli Coastline, taking a helicopter tour of the Na'Poli coast and Waimea Canyon, rope swinging into a waterfall pool and snorkeling while a seal laid on the beach. The last day we got off the boat and visited Pearl Harbor and toured the submarine there.

We loved Hawaii and the ship - it was just a perfect trip filled with memories to last a lifetime! I have to admit that I fell in love with my husband all over again and realized what a true "hottie" he really is!

Wrestling 2010!

2010-03-28T23:16:00.000-06:00

We decided to put all the boys in wrestling this year with Hillcrest - of course Ryan is still too young but he is excited to join them in a couple of years! They were each so amazing! We loved participating as a family in the same activity and they all did so well! We were so proud of them! They are great little athletes and showed some serious talent for this fun sport!! Can't wait for next year!!

Kyle Turns 12!!

2010-03-28T22:58:00.000-06:00

My baby is 12 years old!! How amazing that is!! He didn't want a party, just presents, so he just had grandparents over to celebrate and open his new PC games and controller. He loves them! He also received the Aaronic Priesthood and got to pass the sacrament and got a temple recommend and got to do baptisms for the dead which was an amazing experience for him! He is so responsible and such a great kid! I am so proud of him and am thankful he is such a great example to his brothers! I love you, Kyle!

Christmas 2009!!!

2010-01-08T16:48:00.000-07:00

Everyone got up early and then went back to bed to wait for Ryan who woke up at 7:15. We all went down together to open presents. It was over quickly with everyone ripping everything open quickly despite mom's pleas to take turns and pose for pics. We had breakfast and then opened our stockings. Then we played played played with all our toys, got ready for Grandparents, visited them and opened more presents and ate lots of yummy food. Came home and watched movies we got for Christmas and went to bed.

It was a great year filled with wonderful memories for all of us! The kids were spoiled as always and we did a sub for santa family that they all gave toys to and delivered. We hope they realize how blessed we are and how much fun giving can be as well as receiving!

P.S. That really is a cell phone that Kyle got with unlimited minutes/texts from Cricket. I hate that he is getting so old and grown up!

Cousins from New York!

2010-01-08T12:58:00.000-07:00

My little brother Shawn visited Utah with his kids for the first time in two years....boy, what a treat!! We had soooo much fun play play playing with our Utah cousins. We even took them sledding. We miss them terribly and LOVED their visit. We really hope to see them more often. Love you guys!

NOVA Graduation

2010-01-08T12:56:00.000-07:00

Kyle graduated from the NOVA program this past December. We are proud of him and hope he will remember and live by all the great things they teach him in this program! His class made up a rap for the parents and Kyle did breakdancing while they said it - it was awesome!!! I am so proud of my boy!

Zoe

2009-12-09T09:22:00.000-07:00

Well, mom finally gave in to getting a dog since I "promised" we would get one when Ryan got potty trained. It has been quite an ordeal finding the right dog. I have spent many countless hours researching kinds of dogs that are good for children and then trying to find an adult dog that was housebroken, purebred, socialized to little children, didn't bark, obedient, was little but not too little so Ryan wouldn't hurt it, wouldn't eat our ferret Sadie, current on shots, fixed, didn't cost a fortune and didn't live too far away for pick up. It was a BIG task to put it lightly.

This is Zoe. She is a miniature American Eskimo. She is 4 years old and absolutely beautiful and perfect for our little family minus the fact that she sheds and has to be groomed regularly. She is Carson's responsibility and he takes it very seriously. She is overweight and steals food so we have her on a diet and going for many walks every day. We'll skinny her up in no time!!

Welcome little Zoe - we love you!!!

Cole Wins Reflections!

2009-12-09T09:17:00.000-07:00

Cole is my star this month!! He won 1st place in Reflections for all of the Kindergarten, 1st and 2nd grades for Visual Arts in our school. He also went on to district but didn't move on from there. I was so proud of my little artist! He has been busily painting and drawing like crazy ever since. He loves to shine!

Thanksgiving 2009

2009-12-09T09:15:00.000-07:00

We had a great day with Chris's family at the traditional Thanksgiving celebration with tons of cousins, aunts, uncles, etc. and tons and tons of yummy food. It was a day to be very thankful for our countless blessings!

Sarcophagus - What's That??!

2009-12-05T06:49:00.001-07:00

So I guess one of the big projects in 6th grade is making your own Egyptian Sarcophagus. What is that???? After much googling and planning, this is what we came up with. It is a huge part of his grade and it took us over 7 hours to complete - but it turned out stunning - no bias here. Had to share the joys of "parent projects." At least Kyle is old enough to do most of these on his own and I only need to supervise and nit pick now - he he!

Halloween 2009

2009-12-05T06:44:00.001-07:00

Can you believe I am actually posting Halloween??! Life with four boys is full of adventure and very little time to blog unfortunately! Halloween was great this year. Lots of candy and traditional pumpkin carving. The kids had a great time and so did mom and dad. Kyle branched out on his own for his last year and had cramps in his legs the next day from running around to every house within running distance all night long. He had a great time, too! All four of my children were Tigger when they were 2 - gotta love passing down the costume thing!

Cole's Gymnastics!

2009-10-26T13:46:00.001-06:00

Cole started gymnastics with his little friends this Fall. He loves it and is learning so much so quickly! I love watching him grow - what a champ!

Kyle Fall Soccer

2009-10-26T13:37:00.000-06:00

This was a great soccer season for Kyle!! He is learning to strategize and is an amazing runner with great stamina! He was a real asset to his team and had a lot of fun - go Kyle!

Cutest Cole!

2009-10-26T13:31:00.000-06:00

Cole wasn't feeling so well with strep throat, so he fell asleep holding Sadie and she just laid there sleeping with him. He woke up just as I took the pic and smiled. It was a precious moment so I had to share.

Mom's Magic!

2009-09-01T21:17:00.000-06:00

My little 5 year old Cole decided he wanted his training wheels off to be like his big brothers and so dad took them off and gave him a 5 minute lesson in how to ride in which he crashed and said he wouldn't try again. I told him the next morning to get back out there because mom is magic and will teach him how to ride in minutes...and I did....with the magic chant.... "I can do this" "I can do this" "I can do this" coming out of my little boys mouth. It was fabulous and so much fun! Less than 30 minutes and he was a pro with no scrapes or bruises and just a big smile! And he LOVES riding his bike!! He gets out there riding his bike at least 5-6 times every day - he just LOVES it!! I am so proud of him!!

Moosehorn!!

2009-08-17T08:40:00.000-06:00

We really really love Moosehorn and fishing!! This year we went two times - one of which Kyle broke his thumb. But the second time was just wonderful! Kyle and Carson both caught fish and Cole had several "almosts". We also hiked up to the beautiful meadow that I love and feel like I have been going to all my life probably because I have. So many great memories there as a child and now for my children to remember. I love tradition and being together as a family!

Track 09

2009-08-17T08:13:00.001-06:00

This was a great year for track and field! Kyle was absolutely amazing in every way! He did well at everything he competed in and ended the year with 12 ribbons spread over 4 different meets. He usually competed in the 1/2 mile, shot put, discus, long jump and 4x1 relay. It was a proud parent summer for us - what a talented kid!

Broken Thumb

2009-08-17T08:08:00.000-06:00

We were up at Moosehorn and Kyle slammed his own thumb in the door jamb of our tent trailer. Major pain and suffering until the next morning when we could get it xray'd and set. Life is never boring around our house!!!

Cub Scout Camp 09

2009-07-17T19:49:00.001-06:00

I am now the cub scout leader for the Bobcat/Wolf Pack. I have been doing it with the Personal Progress and YW Music for the past 6 months. It is a lot of fun learning all about cub scouts with Carson in my pack. We went to day camp a few weeks ago and the boys had so much fun! It is a blessing to have the opportunity to serve and have my "boy time" and "girl time" each week. Keeps me really busy, though and sometimes I think it is too much, but the blessings keep coming, so I keep working hard to please my Heavenly Father. Life is good!

Ryan....Hell On Wheels

2009-07-17T19:38:00.000-06:00

Now these are the cutest pictures of my little terror child. I am so grateful for this darling little person but he has got a stubborn streak a mile wide. And, just in case you are wondering, he is STILL not talking. His speech therapist thinks we should just teach him to sign everything - that is not a good thing when she can't even get anything from him! Grandma asked him for a hug the other day and he, can you believe it, KICKED Her!!! It is time for me to read Love and Logic again. You know you are in trouble when you wear your Ipod in the car and turn it up so loud you can't hear your child crying. I honestly don't know what is wrong most of the time - it is such a guessing game. I would do anything to make this little guy talk - anything, truly! Let's hope things get better and be grateful he is such a cutie in the meantime! I love these pics - truly precious. I love him so much despite our trials together!

Fun Run 2009!!

2009-06-02T22:40:00.000-06:00

Okay, major proud parent moment last Friday when my child, Kyle Koch, in the 5th grade actually blew away the ENTIRE SCHOOL in the Fun Run this year!!! I cannot tell you how absolutely amazed I am at this amazingly fast runner I have born! The 6th graders got to start first and then the 5th graders about 2 minutes later and so we were all at the finish line waiting for the first 6th grader to come in when, low and behold, there was MY 5th grader leading the pack with his teacher's husband by A LOT!!! Can you even see anyone else in the background? I could hardly believe it!! AND, just to add to my amazement, he was SICK!! He woke up with a horrible cough, sore throat, headache, and stuffed up nose. He asked me if he could walk the Fun Run since he felt so bad. My very sympathetic self said "NO WAY, BUDDY, You Run and Do Your Best!" And he did - even better than his best. I did drug him up with Ibuprofen and nasal spray. I wonder what he would have done if he was feeling well? As he passed the 6th graders, they yelled at him, "Hey, what grade you in?" I am surprised someone didn't trip him - how annoying to be beat by a 5th grader! I am so proud of my son - he is amazing. I pray this talent will pay for his college someday. If not, what a great skill to have all his life!

I Hate Guns!

2009-06-02T22:27:00.000-06:00

Ok, I have resigned myself to the fact that there are 5 boys in my family and sometimes I will be forced to do things that only boys find fun and exciting. This is obviously one of those times. How did we spend Memorial Day? Learning to shoot guns - YUCK! But the "boys" had a blast!!!

Cole's Birthday Blues

2009-05-14T16:01:00.000-06:00

It was Cole's birthday yesterday. He had a preschool program in the morning, McDonald's for lunch, shopping for the giant remote control buggy he has wanted for 2 months, to Nicelcade with his brothers and his dad, shopping for a giant bean bag for gaming on, and then pizza and a video with the family that night. It was a very fun day except the giant buggy had to be charged overnight. So, up first thing (6AM) to play with the very fun buggy that is now all charged up. Mean mom made him wait until 7AM to go outside and play with it. Play play play with a big grin on his face for 10 minutes until the neighbor's 20 year old daughter decides to back out of her driveway and right over the giant toy - not even stopping or looking back. Can you believe it? My poor little newly 5 year old sits down on the driveway and sobs and sobs. It was the saddest thing you have ever seen! It made me cry, too, and it made dad want to punch someone really really bad. $50 in 10 minutes - that has to be a first for even our family!

And, because I remember when my dad bought me an ice cream cone which I promptly licked too hard and fell onto the parking lot and he immediately took me back in and bought me another one without one mean word, I took Cole to Toys R Us and he bought another one and a cool Iron Man guy. What is money when my little boy is happy - right?! @!@#$Q%&*() neighbor!!!

Carson's Baptism

2009-05-11T14:37:00.001-06:00

Wow! What an amazing day! It was raining cats and dogs, but it was the most beautiful day to us and little Carson. We gave him a set of scriptures with his name on them and he reads them every day. The baptism was at 9:00, so it was early, but at least we were first and the font water was warm! I got to set up the night before which was awesome. Grandma Koch and Christensen spoke, I made a special video of Carson while they changed, and everything went perfectly. We all went to our house for yummy breakfast casserole, cinnamon rolls, muffins, and lots of fruit. The day couldn't have been more wonderful. I am so proud of Carson's decision!

Easter '09

2009-04-19T22:10:00.000-06:00

We had a great Easter last weekend and I am finally getting around to writing about it! I have to say that I love love love tradition!!! It is what makes holidays so wonderful! We had our annual Egg Dying Party at my mom and dad's house for the big annual Easter Egg Hunt at their house on Saturday. Then we had egg hunts at our house and then at Grandma & Grandpa Koch's with a yummy dinner on Sunday. The boys wore their new Easter outfits - a first for matching. They will also wear them at Aunt Rachel's wedding in a few weeks. Don't they look cute? Carson was sure to put holes in his brand new pants that day to make sure I didn't forget that he is all boy. It was so much fun and a true celebration of Christ's Resurrection. We love to Party!!!!

Don't Run Stop Lights - DUH!!!

2009-04-12T21:04:00.001-06:00

Ok, I got ANOTHER ticket last night - this time running a red light that I KNOW was yellow when I entered the intersection. I was out running errands, you know, last minute Easter shopping, when I made a left turn on a YELLOW light and got pulled over. Little lady officer did not agree, however, and gave me a big old ticket - my second in less than 6 months. Looks like I'll be going to traffic court to fight this one so I can maybe keep my license and my insurance - wish me luck!!

Throwing Up!!

2009-04-12T20:59:00.000-06:00

This is what throwing up blood gets you - a trip to the ER to re-hydrate and anti-nausea meds via IV. It was the first for this mom and very not fun for little Carson. It was a miracle, though, he came in barely breathing and left like nothing was ever wrong - truly AMAZING!! The power of modern medicine - I am so thankful!

Las Vegas

2009-04-12T20:55:00.000-06:00

Had a great time in Las Vegas with Chris for our 14th anniversary! Relaxed by the pool and had great weather and time without any children for 4 whole days. It was wonderful! Grandma and Grandpa Christensen, Grandma Koch, and a trustworthy babysitter made it possible and lots of fun for the kids. It was a great time and I cried for 2 days after returning because I missed the fun - though I love being a mom - it was a shock coming home after all the relaxation!!!

Carson Turns 8!!

2009-04-03T22:26:00.000-06:00

Carson turned 8 on March 29th! He had his birthday a week early since mom and dad were going to Las Vegas over his "real" birthday. He had a late night birthday party "monster mash" with lots of scary games and ghost stories, a treasure hunt, candy bar game, and presents, of course. He got a Nintendo DS and a couple of games that he loves to play. He is very excited to get baptized on May 2 at 9:00AM. Everyone is invited to come. Call me if you need details. It is delayed because of general conference this weekend, but that is ok - mom needs extra time to plan. Hopefully the weather will be nicer by then, too. Party time!!!

Ryan Turns 2!!

2009-04-03T22:18:00.000-06:00

My baby is 2 years old - it is almost hard to believe! We had a great time celebrating at Classic Skating in their bounce house. He got sand toys and a Harley Davidson tricycle that has lights and sounds. He didn't quite get the blowing out the candles thing and he still refuses to say actual words, but he is darling and such a clown! We love this little ham!

About Love Dance Production

2009-03-16T22:32:00.000-06:00

Kyle just finished his first "professional" dance production! He got to audition and everything for this part of being the "cool cute boy" all the girls were crazy about. They tried to impress him by dancing and he showed off for them and then gave one of them a "love note" at the end. It was a darling piece and came in the middle of the show. The whole show - minus this piece - is one this company puts on every year with different choreography. It was put on downtown at the Rose Wagner Theatre. Kyle is really sad it is over - he had so much fun and learned a lot and met a lot of amazing adult dancers. It was great and Chris and I were so proud of him!!!

Fencing 09

2009-03-16T22:24:00.000-06:00

Kyle and Carson both just completed a beginning course in Fencing. They did a wonderful job and loved learning and playing with swords. Such a boy-thing!

Alphabet Crown!!!

2009-03-16T21:54:00.000-06:00

Cole got his Alphabet Crown at Challenger. This was a very proud parent and child and teacher moment since we have been working sooo hard and long to get to this point! He knows all his letters and his sounds and is now working on his blending badge. He is such a smartie and we celebrated by going to Jungle Gyms with his friend, Daniel, and dad joined us for lunch. It was a great day!!!

I Love My 2 Year Old!

2009-03-16T21:43:00.000-06:00

Ryan can be such a cutie! I love this little guy and he does the cutest things all the time in addition to all the trouble he gets in. This is his scary monster moment. He found an old Halloween mask and walked around all morning being "scary". What a ham!! This other pic is from when Dad and him fell asleep snuggling during a movie and mom just had to take pictures....so sweet!

Hello - Poison Control?

2009-02-17T16:41:00.000-07:00

Ryan is Trouble!! Yesterday he got up on my bathroom counter, opened the medicine cabinet, got the child-proof top off the Children's Tylenol and had a little "candy" eating party. I found them and panicked and called poison control. They said he'd be fine, but it really scared me. Later, I found my anti-viral meds open (also with a child-proof cap on and out of reach) spilled out and one chewed up and spit out - I am soooo thankful they taste yucky!!! Can you just see me having to call poison control a second time in one day? What happened to children can't open child-proof caps? And, by the way, Where Was His Mother?????!!!!!!

Kyle Turns 11 Years Old!!!

2009-02-16T10:09:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was Kyle's 11th birthday. We celebrated by having Grandma and Grandpa Koch and Aunt Rachel and her fiance, Jared, over for lasagna dinner w/ garlic bread and salad and, of course, banana cake and ice cream after. He only wanted a Rip Stick since he also wants me to throw him a birthday party next Saturday and take all his friends to see Inkheart and have pizza for dinner. Tonight Grandma & Grandpa Christensen are having him over for banana milkshakes and one more present - a Green Day CD (takes after Chris). We love birthdays!!

Please Take Me With You!

2009-02-16T10:04:00.000-07:00

Chris and Kyle went skiing for Kyle's birthday this morning ....really early I might add. Ryan woke up, of course, and wanted all his snow stuff on, too. You have never seen a sadder person when they went out the door without him. It just broke my heart, but I had to take a picture anyway....mean mommy!

It reminds me of the first time I went skiing with my brother, Chad, and ended up in the hospital with a destroyed knee that cost my parents thousands of dollars and myself months in surgeries and rehab. I am trying not to panic today and wished him well this morning with a smile on my face.....AM I CRAZY?????!!!!!!!

"Are You His Grandma?"

2009-01-26T11:16:00.000-07:00

I feel soooo old today!!! I took Ryan into the doctor because he was running a fever and has a nasty cough that kept us both up all last night. We got there and he, of course, was zipping around like he felt just fine. A little girl about 3 years old came over to us in the waiting room and asked me "Are you that boy's grandma?" And because I am a glutten for punishment I said, "No. Why, do I look old?" She simply said, "Yes". I laughed on the outside, but I cried on the inside. What a sad day!!!! And, of course, Ryan is just fine - he just has a nasty virus that will go away on its own after making us miserable forever. Gotta love wasting a copay!!

New Years Day 2009

2009-01-12T16:06:00.000-07:00

New Year's Day was spent sledding at the elementary school. We had a great time with a little jump and everything. It was a great day with super memories. I think I actually wished I was 21 months again since all Ryan did was ride and never had to pull a sled or walk up one hill- what a life!! We relaxed later at the Dollar Show watching Beverly Hills Chihuahua - very cute!

New Years Eve 2009

2009-01-12T16:01:00.000-07:00

We had a great time on New Year's Eve with several friends and their kids at our house. Deed's brought Xbox and Guitar Hero with 2 guitars and I actually learned to play - it was a blast. We had Foosball and air hockey in the front room which was fun, too. Not to mention all the yummy yummy food! I think everyone had fun and my house survived amazingly well. The best part - Ryan went to bed when the party started and I got to relax with my friends - it was awesome!!! Happy New Year 2009!!

New Hair 4 The New Year!

2008-12-31T15:52:00.000-07:00

Chop Chop! I have wanted to do this for a very long time and it feels so good! New hair seemed like a great way to welcome in this new year. Happy New Year Everyone! Party On :)

Christmas Day 2008!!

2008-12-26T11:59:00.000-07:00

We had a wonderful Christmas celebrating and just having a beautiful day with our family! We woke the kids up around 6:45 AM because Chris couldn't wait any longer -just an oversize child giving me 5 boys instead of 4 - but no complaints from me - it is so much fun! The kids opened all their presents and then Grandma & Grandpa Christensen came over to help un-box everything and put it all together with batteries and such - a huge help! Then we had a yummy dinner at Grandma & Grandpa Koch's with more presents and cousin-fun. We spent the rest of the day relaxing, playing with toys and watching Kung Fu Panda which mom fell asleep during - a very long, fun day!! Hope you all had a great one, too!

Gingerbread Houses with Grandma!

2008-12-26T10:24:00.000-07:00

As a Christmas tradition, Grandma Koch came over to help us all make gingerbread houses. What fun!

The Tooth Fairy Didn't Come!

2008-12-19T20:56:00.000-07:00

I am a loser mom. The other day Carson lost a tooth and put it under his pillow. He then went to bed and woke up the next day with his tooth still there. I had a very sad little boy until, amazingly, the tooth fairy texted him on his mom's phone and told him she was sooo sorry she couldn't come because she got snowed in. :) He felt much better...WHEW!!!

The next night, the loser tooth fairy mom wore a rubber band around her fingers to help her remember to "dig herself out of the snow" and go down to take the tooth and give him a dollar and sugarless gum as he had so clearly suggested. Boy, were we all so happy when he woke up and discovered his treasure!

Glad we dodged this bullet - who thought up the tooth fairy anyway?!

Christmas Parties & Performances

2008-12-19T20:51:00.001-07:00

This week has been full of planning and carrying out Christmas School parties for my kids. Cole had a sing-along program and visit from Santa at Challenger which was nice for mom since all I had to do was come and watch and video. I was in charge of a game for Carson's class party that I forgot about until the very last minute the night before. Needless to say, time searching google and then cutting up Bingo cards and running to the store early the next morning and we were ready to go. I was in charge of Kyle's class's party since I am the room mother. We played the candy bar game, did a book gift exchange, had a Skittle relay and then donuts and pop. We also had a band concert for Kyle and two Christmas performances for his break-dancing. I added a video of the break-dancing below. Anyway, a very very busy week that I have thoroughly enjoyed but am glad it is over!

Kyle Break Dancing!!

2008-12-19T17:11:00.000-07:00

I am a proud parent of a 10 year old break-dancer! He is amazing and has come sooooo far in the 3 years he has taken break-dancing. He works really hard and is so much fun to watch. I wanted to share this video of his practices and performances this Christmas. The first part is some of his practices, the second part is a performance at his school and the last performance includes his teacher, Bobby Kuhn, in the black, and some of his teacher's break-dancing crew, "The Blow Up Kings" - they are amazing! It lasts about 4 minutes if you want to watch. Hope you enjoy!

The Case of the Missing Wallet

2008-12-05T20:00:00.000-07:00

So, Chris's wallet went missing a few days ago, but he didn't tell me anything about it until tonight. Then he started to realize it wasn't going to reappear on its own and enlisted my help to find it. We looked ALL over but it was nowhere to be found. "Where could it be?" we kept asking ourselves. Then......we realized....our cute little mischievous little boy LOVES to throw everything away and, sure enough, Chris went out to the garbage can, looked through the kitchen garbage I had thrown out just that morning, and found his wallet. Very disgusting, but true! What are we going to do with this little boy of ours?!

In the end we are just very grateful that he did not flush it down the toilet and that I didn't get the kitchen garbage out to the trash can BEFORE the garbage man came this morning. These little blessings make our lives so much easier!! We are so thankful!

Hailey!!!

2008-12-01T13:39:00.000-07:00

My sweet, drop-dead gorgeous friend from Colorado, Hailey Babcock, came to spend the weekend here in Utah and I got to see her 3 times - it was awesome! She is my therapist, confidant and friend and I love her dearly. This is a picture of her friend, Rachel, then Hailey, me and Rachel's sister Becca and then Lauren, Rachel's daughter and then Berlin, Hailey's daughter. We all went out before Hailey & Rachel's husband's band show - it ROCKED!!! Hudson River is the BEST!!

Thanksgiving Weekend

2008-12-01T13:34:00.001-07:00

We had a fantastic Thanksgiving with Chris's family. The kids played with their cousins and we visited forever. The next day, Chris & I went shopping at 4:30 AM while grandpa watched the kids sleep - what a great grandpa! We got lots of great deals and had fun shopping with the crowds. I loved watching Chris get excited over great prices and watching him run into the stores to beat other shoppers. It was also funny watching him grab things away from people - jk - but we wanted to! We got nearly everything bought over the weekend that we needed and only have a few odds and ends to pick up now - it feels great!! We also enjoyed decorating for Christmas on Saturday - the kids can hardly wait but are torn because they don't want it to be over, either....such a dilema!!

Reflections Isn't So Bad When You Win...

2008-12-01T13:30:00.000-07:00

Ok, so winning a trophy at the Reflections assembly at school made it worth all the pain and suffering getting the thing done. I have decided that Reflections isn't so bad when it makes my kid feel like a hundred bucks - anything is worth that!!!! Proud parent moment for sure!

Fencing

2008-11-26T13:39:00.000-07:00

Kyle just completed a fencing course that he absolutely loved! He was a natural at it and had a great time competing! What a great kid!

BYU vs. UT

2008-11-22T21:39:00.001-07:00

My true blue son - such a sad boy!

Electronics Confuse Me!

2008-11-18T16:51:00.000-07:00

So, Kyle wants a digital camera for Christmas and so do I. I also need a new camcorder and a new cell phone. I have been doing my research, but I am soooo confused after hours reading review after review on all these things. I still have NO idea what I am going to buy on any of these items. Any great ideas with a small budget in mind? Anyone?

I Hate Reflections!

2008-11-07T16:18:00.000-07:00

So, why is it that I fell into the "please, please, PLEASE, can I do Reflections this year?" trap? Every year we do this, I swear it will be the last and then Kyle sucked me into it yet again! His idea was great - a plexiglass puzzle with the theme "WOW", but it was yet another parent-intensive project with a lot of time and effort that is not even required - where is my brain? A whole Saturday the weekend before it was due and it was finished - Chris was so happy to help?! He kept saying, "why are we doing this?" "Good job, Kyle!" Gotta love it - NOT!!

Making Jack O'Lanterns

2008-11-07T16:08:00.000-07:00

We all love this tradition - making Jack O'Lanterns on Halloween! They turned out great despite all the "mistakes" mom made on the tricky parts. Thankfully you can't see the pins/nails/tape "fixing" mom's "mistakes". Gotta love it!

School Halloween Parties

2008-11-07T15:58:00.000-07:00

School Halloween Parties were especially fun this year. I am room rep, again, for Kyle's class. We had a mummy wrapping contest (see pic - far right front is Kyle) and a donut eating contest as well as Halloween Pictionary. The kids teachers are super great this year.

Boo At The Zoo

2008-11-07T15:52:00.000-07:00

We all went to Hogle Zoo for "Boo At The Zoo" Day - it was soooo crowded and soooo much fun with gorgeous weather and active animals and candy - gotta love it!

I Love Fall!

2008-11-07T15:47:00.000-07:00

Just out enjoying a beautiful Fall Sunday Afternoon - I already miss it with all this snow lately!

"When Are You Going To Jail?"

2008-11-02T08:43:00.001-07:00

I am embarrassed to report that I got a speeding ticket for the first time in nearly 10 years. I am so mad at myself for being unsafe and for being dumb enough to get caught. Cole and his little friend, Daniel, were in the car with me when it happened. They were all confused why the policeman didn't take me to jail when I told them he pulled me over for being unsafe. They were in a hurry to get to their little Halloween parade at school and I was taking too long... Would the policeman just hurry up and take me to jail so they could party?! Anyway, such is life!!

Trunk or Treat & Chili Cook-off

2008-10-29T17:14:00.000-06:00

This is us at our yearly Trunk or Treat last Friday. It is a great time with the whole neighborhood. I am proud to say that, yes, that is my cheerleading outfit from high school that I could still wear (just shows you how fat I was in high school) AND (we won't mention that I couldn't breathe all night). Anyway, Ryan wouldn't sit still for a pic, so you get him running to me while I run away from him. Cole was Jack Sparrow - soooo cute, and Carson is that Alien in case you can't tell. The pic with me and my friend, Becky, is fun since she was wearing all 80's stuff and had her hair just like I still wear mine - ha ha! I loved taking a walk down memory lane with her outfit! We had a great time, though my chili didn't win...so sad!

Pumpkin Patch

2008-10-29T17:07:00.000-06:00

We had a great time at the Engh Gardens Pumpkin Patch! They have tons of overpriced pumpkins, a cute Halloween decorations store, a really cool pirate ship and a fun maze made out of haystacks. The kids had a great time and then we went somewhere else to buy our pumpkins - we are so cheap!! But, I have to say, I did buy 1 decoration to thank Engh for providing a fun day for us!

Weekend Fun!

2008-10-19T21:35:00.001-06:00

UEA weekend weather couldn't have been better! We did many fun things including gym-time for mom and gym-time daycare for the kids, shopping for Reflections project stuff, Hogle Zoo (with no camera - oops), Maceys October Celebration with blow-up toys, free scones, free drinks, free games for the kids, $3 steak dinner, and winning a $25 gift certificate to Macey's from Goldenwest Credit Union (also without camera - oops again), making cookies for the new neighbors who hadn't moved in yet so we ate them instead, and, of course, a trip to Wheeler Farm to feed the ducks, chickens, pigs, play in the tree house, and try to ride the sheep - so much family fun! I miss summer when we could do these things every day - my family is the joy of my life!

Big Helper?!

2008-10-19T21:24:00.000-06:00

Ryan definitely has a favorite person in our house - and that would be Dad! Everything Daddy does is something he must do, too. Can't say Chris appreciated this moment as much as mommy since Ryan kept sweeping through the dirt as soon as Chris got it into a pile. He is such a big helper?!

P.S. For those of you jealous people out there wondering why Chris is sweeping and mopping, I want you to know that I do all the toilets and bathrooms and he is such a sweetheart to help do his share of the inside work - I am a lucky woman!

Mini Remodel

2008-10-19T21:08:00.000-06:00

When do you know it is time for a new microwave? A good indication is rust and peeling paint... that adds nothing but, I am sure, toxic material to your food! My range hood fan hasn't worked in over a year and I miss it since I often cause smoke when I cook - yikes! So, off to good ol' RC Willey to get a combination microwave/range hood/fan that is not only very functional, but pretty and a little updated, too! I love the new look and it clears off my countertop, too, since my toaster oven and knives fit in the previously occupied microwave spot. I am a happy woman!

Seize The Moment....Or The Child!

2008-10-15T20:37:00.000-06:00

I truly cherish watching my husband play with my children! I would not trade these moments for anything! Life is so precious and moments like these are invaluable! Hope these pics make you smile - I was cracking up!!

Ryan Does The Stink Bug

2008-10-15T20:35:00.000-06:00

Ryan likes to make us laugh and one of his favorite stunts that makes mom laugh is his "stink bug" pose. Too Cute!

Books Bond

2008-10-15T20:26:00.000-06:00

I love books and I love, even more, watching my children learn to love books. These pics are precious!

Stitches....Again!!

2008-10-13T19:06:00.000-06:00

Can you believe we got to get stitches AGAIN yesterday?!! You have to love all the excitement around our house. Kyle was standing on a stool to reach his gloves in the top of the coat closet because it actually snowed here yesterday...Yuck - I hate the snow! He fell, big surprise, and hit his knee on the edge of the stool .... who knew stools could be so sharp?! It was very deep and bleeding a lot ....so off to the Instacare for 3 stitches and a bandage. We are thankful for small owies - maybe, like small earthquakes, it means we'll avoid the big ones!!!

Birthday Shopping

2008-10-12T13:28:00.000-06:00

I am sooo old!! I am now officially 37 - how depressing! I went out and bought new jeans and new shoes to make me feel better - here is a preview. Since then, I have decided buying new clothes is not nearly as fun as previously enjoyed before I had 4 children. Such is life!

Love Those Peaches!

2008-10-12T13:20:00.000-06:00

I am so grateful for my 10 year old son for pushing me into learning things I don't know how to do! Kyle: Mom, how do you bottle peaches? Mom: I have no idea. Kyle: I really really really want to learn, will you please learn and teach me? Mom: We'll see. And then, every day for many days he reminds me how much he really wants to learn. Sooo, I begged my mom to teach us and the sweetheart she is, she let us come over and Kyle & I learned together and bottled about 14 jars. Then, because I am an overachiever by nature, I called my friend, Heather, and she taught us how to dehydrate them as well. They are so yummy and it was a great bonding experience with my oldest son that we will for sure do it again next year. Kyle decided he liked bottling better and I found I will actually eat peaches if they are dehydrated, so it worked great for both of us! So fun!

Timpanogus Hike

2008-09-16T09:34:00.001-06:00

Chris went with his brother, David, and dad, Fred, and brother-in-law, Kelly, to hike Mount Timpanogus a few weeks ago. It was an intense, gorgeous hike that took the whole day round trip. He suffered from some blisters, but the view and experience was definitely worth it! Hope you enjoy the pics.

Bike Riding, Picking Peaches, Grandma & Grandpa's

2008-09-15T14:43:00.000-06:00

Fun family day riding bikes, picking Grandma & Grandpa Christensen's peaches and playing in their big big yard!

Corn On The Cob

2008-09-15T14:38:00.000-06:00

Ryan

We were happily eating dinner when the kids said, "hey mom, look at Ryan", and this is what I saw - what a little card!

Gotta love corn on the cob - fresh from Grandpa Christensen's garden!

First Day Of School 08

2008-09-15T14:20:00.000-06:00

My boys are growing up - 2nd and 5th grades. I am a proud mom and I miss them being away all day. The summer was too much fun and we all got spoiled playing all the time. It is definitely quite and boring without them around all day!

Pinewood Derby

2008-09-15T14:05:00.000-06:00

Yes, it was the Pinewood Derby for our Scout Troup. Chris insisted on spending hours, literally, cutting, sanding, weighing, lubing, painting, testing and building the coolest car for Kyle to race. He even got books and movies from the library and studied them intently before beginning. He insisted that Kyle watch him every second since it was "Kyle's car" - hehe!

Then the big competition night came and let's just say that the car that won the fastest car smoked Chris's car - oops - I mean Kyle's car, and was thrown together the night before by the scout - not the dad. Kyle's won "the best of show" - it was really neat looking which has to count for something.

Gotta love the scouting program!

4 Boys At Church

2008-09-15T13:40:00.000-06:00

Ever wondered what it is like to have 4 boys at church? Let me give you some ideas:

You pack a baggie of pieces of bread to take to sacrament meeting so that when your 18 month old sees the tray of sacrament bread, you can quickly give him ONE and then pass the tray very high over his head while handing him the baggie you brought to stave off the inevitable tantrum!

You also have a ready sippy cup full of water for the same reason when the water tray comes around.

You plan ahead with an array of snacks they will feed all the kids around them since you know they will eat all of the other kids snacks because somehow they taste better.

You bring a big bag with a lot of fun church related activities for the kids around you to play with since you also know all the kids activities their parents brought are going to be more fun than the ones you brought and your kids are going to beg to play with them and you have to have something to share.

You pretend not to know your child when they escape, in spite of your best efforts to keep them in your pew, and run down the aisle, up on the stage, pull on the leg of the speaker, and yell "hi" to the congregation over the half stage wall.

You don't ever look guilty when the ball that somehow made its way from your house to sacrament ends up being thrown 10 pews up and smacks an older woman on the head.

When someone misbehaves, heaven forbid, you DO NOT threaten them with a spanking - EVER!! This mistake was made known to everyone around us as we carried our 4 year old out while he yelled "please, please, don't spank me".

You allow one small toy to come with them to church. The rule is that it fits in their pocket. As soon as you get to sacrament, out comes the ugliest, meanest, most irreverent looking "guy" they could find. They then pretend to kill each other in very creative and gross ways throughout all of church. Who came up with the sound "pshhhh" "pshhhh" "pshhhh" for shooting each other? My boys love it and, since it sounds kind of like whispering, they say it a lot as they repeatedly "kill" or "knock each other out".

You frisk, yes frisk, your children before they go to primary to make sure none of those friendly looking "guys" go to primary with them to torment their teachers and classmates with.

We love the gospel and we love our children - that is why we smile when people move away, far away from us when we sit down next to them and we go to church every week, rain or shine. We are so blessed!

2008-08-25T10:07:00.000-06:00

Well, we went camping at Moosehorn again. We went for a hike up to this beautiful meadow and had a very relaxing time up there. On our way down, Cole said he could "hike all by himself" and wouldn't hold Chris's hand. Soooo, this is what happened when he fell and hit a very sharp rock! Not great!!! It was so deep, it went all the way to his skull. The clinic in Park City wouldn't touch it and made us go to Primary Children's. There, a Plastic Surgeon worked on it and made it all better. 2 internal stitches and 4 external stitches and we were set. He was sooooo brave - they didn't even have to sedate him - what an amazing little trouper! We are blessed beyond measure that he didn't have any complications and just a few stitches to show for this adventure!

Boating at Echo Lake!

2008-08-15T15:12:00.000-06:00

Boating at Echo Lake with our friends yesterday was a total blast!! The kids tubed, Cole wake-boarded on a training board, Jody wake-boarded for the the first time and Chris slalomed. We love summer and are blessed to have many great friends to play with!!!