The Hambricks

Hambrick Family 2011

2011-11-11T17:43:00.000-08:00

Our sis-in-law, Brittany Hambrick, took our family pictures this year. She did an awsome job. We were very impressed and had a blast in the meantime.

Family Photos 2011

2011-11-11T17:41:00.000-08:00

On our trip out west, we stopped in Idaho Falls to visit family and have our family pictures taken professionally for the first time ever(Sears doesn't count).

New year..new pictures

2011-11-11T17:37:00.000-08:00

The kids had their school pics taken this year by a professional (sis-in-law) Brittany Hambrick in Idaho. She did a fantastic job and would recommend her to anyone. Bailey 8, Parker 10, Gavin 13, Jaden 15.

We must be in Utah...

2011-09-20T09:18:00.000-07:00

We stopped at 12 temples on our trip through Utah and Idaho.....Idaho Falls, Rexberg, Brigham City, Ogdon, Bountiful, Salt Lake City, Jordan River, Oouirah Mountain, Provo, Manti, Mt. Timpanogas and the Draper temple.

Temples temples everywhere

2011-09-20T09:14:00.000-07:00

My kids never realized just how many temples are in Utah.....There were so many and we made it a point to stop at as many as we could. We went to Rexberg to see the temple there and met up with my 2 brothers, Garrett and his wife, and Drew.. We visited for about an hour then we had to go....but we would see them in a few days at the reunion!

The Hike

2011-09-20T09:10:00.000-07:00

We stayed with Chad's sister, Darci and her family for the first 3 days of our trip. We all hiked up Mt. Timpanogos to get to the caves! It was very steep and people could fall off the edge(just saying). Chad almost didn't make it............but he did! Once we reached the top, we got to go inside the caves...ohhhhhh..it was nice and chilly. We saw stalagtites, stalagmites, and all sorts of cavey things. It was lots of fun spending time with family. We also went up to his parents' property to camp(yes..i said Camp), in a camper....of course it rained, or poured, so no fire or even going out..we did visit the Manti Temple while we were there!

Zirker Family Reunion 2011

2011-09-20T09:02:00.000-07:00

Bear Lake here we come! Everyone was able to attend with all of their spouses and children!

Zirker talent show

2011-09-20T09:00:00.000-07:00

One of the nights we had a talent show....all sorts of talents and skills were displayed. We also had a night where dad talked about genealogy work...to the temple we go! There were nights filled with board games and chips w\salsa...laughing til all hours of the night..the endless pop machine (which the children LOVED), the GIRL room and BOY room, golfing (or pretending to---thanks Diana), trampoline jumping. tennis playing, certain ladies running everyday, lots of babies to hold, lots of girl hair to do, raspberry shakes to partake, food food food and more food, caves to climb, new t-shirts to wear and it ended with a testimony meeting. It was a great reunion and I'm not kidding when I say that there was NO fighting or arguing or things that can happen when 50 people are together for 4 days. We stayed at Bear Lake in 2 of the most beautiful houses I've ever seen. The scenery was gorgeous. It was a great reunion. See ya again in 3 years..2014 baby!

Beach baby

2011-09-20T08:50:00.000-07:00

One of the days we spent at the beach. We rode in a boat, on tubes and on jetskis(Chad's favorite). It was lots of fun and the kiddos were really good, they all played great together . Some of the pics are from the craft day we had.

Family time

2011-09-20T08:48:00.000-07:00

Every night we would all get together and play games or do our own thing..It was fun getting to know everyone all over again!

Reunion races

2011-09-20T08:46:00.000-07:00

We always have all sorts of games and races at the reunion...why? Because it's fun! There were 3 legged races, sack races, running races, boy races, girl races, wheelbarrow races..lots of fun and laughter!

pretty in pink!

2011-09-20T08:43:00.000-07:00

Within a year, there were 5 little Zirker babies born. So here is their photo shoot. They are Kenzey(Troy), Chloe(Clint), Logan(Darrick), Eve(Marlo) and Allison(Jenny).....ps..I'm exhausted!!

Shootin'

2011-09-20T08:40:00.000-07:00

We all went and shot some guns! I had never picked up a gun before and I have to say that I really enjoyed shooting the clay pigeons. I may have not shot any, but it was fun. Troy taught everyone how to shot a handgun and dad taught us how to use the shotgun....the uncles helped with the gun situation while the aunts and mommies did the kid thing.....oh yeah..it was super duper hot out! just saying.

Family reunion continued

2011-09-20T08:36:00.000-07:00

Idaho Falls...here we come!

2011-09-20T08:35:00.000-07:00

On our vacation this year, we flew into SLC Utah and had lots of things planned and people to see. We startedby driving down to Idaho Falls and staying with grandma Crow. It was so great to spend time with her. We picked her strawberries for her and picked (or ate) the raspberries. We also spent time with Chad's brother, Justin & his wife, Britney.. She is a photographer so she took our family pictures...they turned out beautiful...thanks Britney. We also visited the Idaho Falls Temple...this would be the first out of 12 that we visited.

Holy Cow!.......fifteen!

2011-09-20T07:43:00.000-07:00

That's right...my oldest turned fifteen!! I never really felt old...but am relizing that I am:( Jaden spent his bday with the Zirkers and us. We swam and ate and swam and ate. He received some piano books, Wii games, mints and more. Thanks for all the cards and gifts. Stay tuned for driving...yep, that's next!

Seussical the Musical

2011-09-20T07:36:00.000-07:00

This year Gavin and I were in the community theatre production of Seussical the Musical. It's a collaboration of 7 books by Dr. Seuss put to music. Gavin was a Who cadet and I was Gertrude McFuzz. The story is centered around Horton Hears a Who. Gertrude tries the whole show to get Horton to notice her....it was a great role and a great cast. I hope you enjoy the next 5 pages of pictures..it's just a glimpse of the past 3 months of our lives! Thanks for all those who came to support us!

and more Seussical

2011-09-20T07:31:00.000-07:00

more Seussical

2011-09-20T07:30:00.000-07:00

Seussical...continued

2011-09-20T07:29:00.000-07:00

Seussical........the end!

2011-09-20T07:27:00.000-07:00

Nielsens visit Fond du Lac

2011-07-03T17:59:00.000-07:00

Jen, Blaine and kiddos came for a visit this weekend. They came up from Dubuque on Friday and stayed until Saturday evening. We swam for hours, ate for hours and swam some more. Jen came to Gavin and my dress rehearsal for "Seussical the musical" on
Friday while the kids played at home. Saturday we visited the Fond du Lac lighthouse and came home for more swimming and eating. It was a lot of fun. Now we have a count-down until we see each other again at the reunion.....3 weeks!!

Swimming Lessons

2011-07-03T17:52:00.000-07:00

Bailey and her friend, Malorie took swimming lessons again this year. My friend, Melissa, picked her up every day for 2 weeks and took her to her lessons while I was at work....she really loves to swim.

Extreme makeover bathroom

2011-07-03T17:48:00.000-07:00

Chad and I decided to remodel our bathroom by ourselves. He wanted to "learn a new skill." We (notice i said "we") ripped out the old vanity, ripped out the old medicine cabinet... I sanded the flooring and rolled adhesive to it then laid the tile squares (that Chad handed to me one by one...he's a giver), then I grouted the tiles and Chad wiped off the grout....most of it(it was a learning experience)..then I re-grouted. It looks beautiful. Chad did put in the new vanity and cabinet. I put up beadboard and trim...it's almost finished. Our big find was an old fisher price wooden toy under the flooring...probably worth lots.

Happy Father's Day

2011-07-03T17:37:00.000-07:00

We love our dad! The kids made several things for Chad this year...a father's survival kit, a pencil holder, lots of paper and vinyl cut outs(always a favorite). Chad picked out what he wanted this year...a window air-conditioner for our room(to make it extra chilly at night:), a wireless something for the blu-ray?? I made him a snickers cheesecake....we do love our dad!

Welcome to the Big Top!

2011-07-03T17:31:00.000-07:00

Bailey's 2nd grade class put on a Circus at school....it was very cute. There was painted scenery and props, hot dogs and pop and vendors with popcorn around their necks.. it was the greatest show on earth.

Double Digits

2011-07-03T17:25:00.000-07:00

Parker turned 10! YIKES! We celebrated with singing, presents, dinner at Red Robin and a trip to see Kung Fu Panda 2.

Baptism Photos

2011-05-17T12:35:00.000-07:00

Bailey Shay Hambrick..........Eight years old..and ready to be baptized!

Special day

2011-05-17T12:32:00.000-07:00

Today Bailey was baptized...Saturday May 7 2011. We had grandma & grandpa Hambrick and Zirker here...along with Ty. Her daddy baptized her and confirmed her. Jaden spoke on baptism (I cried...of course), Grandma Hambrick spoke on the Holy Ghost, Grandma Zirker played the piano...and both grandpas said the prayer...Her best friend, Malorie, passed out the programs..It was a great day for us all.

Baptism afterparty

2011-05-17T12:28:00.000-07:00

We had both sets of grandparents here and Ty, to help celebrate Bailey's special day. We had pink donuts, pink rice krispy treats, pink frosted mini-bite brownies, lemon mini cupcakes and pink and yellow lemonade...Super fun and super PINK! Thanks to the families for making the trek and for all of your help.

Bailey is 8

2011-05-17T12:23:00.000-07:00

My baby is eight! How fast did that go?? She had an ice cream cake with pink candles. She had her best friend, Malorie over to help celebrate. She got a new bike and DS games...thanks for all of the cards and presents...Wish we lived closer to share these fun times with you.

Happy Joes Celebration

2011-05-17T12:20:00.000-07:00

Every year we head up to Happy Joes to celebrate the birthdays...Since it is an hour away, we wait until the majority of us have had our bdays and celebrate it in one big TADAH! We took our friends, the Larsens with us to celebrate their bdays also.. Lots of delicious pizza, sundaes, singing and FUN! Here's to another year of growing older!

Easter Fun

2011-05-17T12:17:00.000-07:00

This year we did the usual holiday activities...coloring eggs(my fav...NOT!), the hunt and spending time with our dear friends. We colored eggs and had the hunt at their house. The kids had a great time and it was stressless.. The bunny found us the next day...Yeah..more candy and movies.

Pinch me!

2011-04-27T12:17:00.000-07:00

It's another holiday....which means...more decorated donuts and holiday candy for breakfast! Hope you're wearing GREEN!

TEENAGER!

2011-04-27T12:07:00.000-07:00

It has happened...I officially have 2 teenagers in the house...Jesus take the wheel! Gav turned 13 today. We celebrated with a homemade ice-cream cake and presents. Thanks for the cards and presents...he is a happy teen! Two down..two to go (one includes a GIRL..Yikes!)

The Pinewood Derby 2011

2011-03-06T11:47:00.000-08:00

Since there are only 3 scouts in our branch, they gave our family 5 cars to cut out and to participate. So off I sent the cars to my dad to cut out for me. The kids painted and decorated their cars..I did the melting of the tire balances (lead)....not my fav job...and the drilling..not my fav job...and the graphite and sanding....I used my food scale to weigh the cars...and presto..ready for the derby. Parker came in second and got a nice trophy,(his car was The Blue Machine), Bailey won "Prettiest car" in the sisters division,(her car was called Drama Queen..she was not happy about me naming it that-she said,"Mom do you know what that means?" Then she stomped into her room and slammed the door. "Yes Bailey, I DO know what that means!" Jaden won 1st place in the boy scout division and Chad won 3rd place in the adult division. Gavin didn't win but was a good sport about it. (He was boggled by the fact that all of our cars were cut the very same and he didn't place...)Everyone got big ole' candy bars for participating. It was a really fun night for everyone...

I Love You more!

2011-03-06T11:32:00.000-08:00

This year for Valentines Day I bought heart-shaped doughnuts for the kids for breakfast. I set the table up with name cards and heartshaped marshmallows and valentine m&m's. For dinner we had heart shaped pizza, of course, along with I Love You peeps and a DQ gift card!! It was a fun day of surprises for the kids....I love you all!! On to the fun parties at school...with even more treats and notes of love.

Happy 39th birthday Chad!

2011-03-06T11:26:00.000-08:00

One more year in the thirties and BAM! someone will be OLD!! But for now we celebrated Chad's birthday with the traditional decorated birthday chair, presents, homemade seafood lasagne, lemon-crunch cheesecake(not homemade) and ice-cream...along with plenty of singing!! Enjoy your last year in the thirties!!

Happy 37th birthday Stacy!

2011-03-06T11:20:00.000-08:00

Yes...I am another year older..not sure about wiser, but indeed older. Chad had the birthday chair all decorated along with presents and an ice-cream cake! Thanks for all the well wishes and presents!

Christmas Musical

2011-01-12T15:20:00.000-08:00

Gavin and I were in the Community Theatres production of "I'll be home for Christmas". Mom, dad and Ty came from Dubuque to see us. (They had to leave right after the show because of the weather) It was 2 months of non-stop Christmas music...it was alot of fun. More pics yet to come.

Happy New Year!

2011-01-12T15:17:00.000-08:00

Clint and his family were at mom's this year, along with Drew and Ty. We have so much fun there..Mother goose found us on New Years Day!

Let it snow!

2011-01-12T15:16:00.000-08:00

We went to Grandma's for New Years this year and took advantage of the snow that was there. Lots of sledding, snowballs and snowmen!

Christmas 2010

2011-01-12T15:14:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas to you all. The kids must have been good because Santa found us again. Jaden got lots of drawing tablets, Gavin got a u-draw for the wii, Parker got lots of wii games, Bailey got a DS with lots of girl games and Santa brought the family a full size keyboard this year. Thanks for all of the Christmas wishes and gifts!

Trick-or-treat

2011-01-12T15:11:00.000-08:00

The kids trick-or-treated in Grandma's neighboorhood this year...The houses were further between then they were used to..Chad and Grandma drove beside us while the kids and I walked to each house.

Halloween 2010

2011-01-12T15:09:00.000-08:00

This year for Halloween, Jaden was the Genie from Aladdin, Gavin was Mario, Parker was Santa and Bailey was Strawberry Shortcake(old school). I promised her for 2 years that I would make her Strawberry Shortcake costume..I finally made the time and it turned out amazing! I wanted to get out all of the dolls and start playing.

Grandmas are great!

2011-01-12T15:06:00.000-08:00

We got to spend some time with Great Grandma Hambrick at Halloween. She looks great!

Pumpkins 2010

2011-01-12T15:05:00.000-08:00

We went to Indiana for Halloween this year...Grandma Hambrick had planned all sorts of games and crafts for the kids...and the dreaded pumpkin carving...good times!

Bye Bye wisdom teeth

2011-01-12T15:03:00.000-08:00

Jaden had to get 2 of his wisdom teeth removed...He felt fine the first day...then he puffed right up and needed the help of drugs!

Straighten up

2011-01-12T15:00:00.000-08:00

I straightened Jaden's hair just to see how long it was...Drew measured it at 8 inches. I just gave him a 2" trim....

Hambrick Family 2010

2010-10-10T16:55:00.000-07:00

Another year has come and gone and that means another family photo........It seems as though it should be painless....again I am wrong in soooo many ways. My new motto for the rest of the year and throughout 2011 is...."Jesus take the wheel!"

School pictures 2010

2010-10-10T16:50:00.000-07:00

We took the kids out today to get their school pictures taken while the weather was great. Jaden is 14 and a freshman, Gavin is 12 and in 7th grade, Parker is 9 and in 4th grade and Bailey is 7 and in 2nd grade.....and I'm pooped!!

Proud soccer mom

2010-10-07T14:18:00.000-07:00

Well...the soccer season has come to an end.. We hosted the JV BBQ party last night with about 20 boys and some parents.. It really was a fun time. Yes..I do have a button that I wear proudly to every game and yes...I do cheer....and yes I am loud.....and yes, I do bring suckers in case there might be a parent there who is too yelly and needs to plug it up...it has been a great season! Good job Jaden! Oh.Yeah...the picture of Jaden in pink and with a bow in his hair was taken this morning for Homecoming week...the freshman are to wear pink...I couldn't be more proud!

Take me out to the ballgame

2010-10-07T14:10:00.000-07:00

Our Branch got tickets to Miller Park for a ballgame. Chad had the tailgaiting party at our house before we all headed to the game. It was all of the Hambricks' first time to see a ballgame LIVE. The kids loved it(especially Parker). We were up in the nosebleed section...but you could see everything. There were people selling pop, beer, nuts etc...they came by every 10 min....they'd hollar.."Miller..Draft...Peanuts." Bailey waved to them and said, "I'll try a miller draft peanut." Precious. So we went and bought peanuts, popcorn, soda and lots of junk. We had to leave in the 5th inning because of the drive and school/work the next day...yes, there were tears (Parker). Now Chad can cross this off his bucket list.

First day of school 2010

2010-09-01T15:08:00.000-07:00

Jaden is a freshman in HS, Gavin is a 7th grader, Parker a 4th grader, and Bailey is a 2nd grader and I'm getting old! Off they went to 3 different schools at 3 different times.. Next week we add in early morning seminary!!!! I see no end!

High School soccer

2010-09-01T15:05:00.000-07:00

Jaden is on the HS soccer team this year. He has loved it, despite all of the endless practicing and games...who knew I'd be coming and going this much for one child? Go Jaden.

Last day of vacation

2010-09-01T15:03:00.000-07:00

Chad took Monday off and took the kids out to enjoy their last day of freedom before school starts. He took them fishing and then miniature golfing. They had a great day with dad.

I'll take braces for 3 please

2010-09-01T14:59:00.000-07:00

Well, it finally happened...all the endless torment of wearing appliances in their mouths is over...and a new adventure of soft foods, brushing after every bite, and being called "brace face" begins. All 3 boys now have braces. By the time Jaden gets his off...Bailey may be getting them on...joy!

Moms' night out

2010-09-01T14:53:00.000-07:00

I got together for a going-away party for a gal I trained at Target. We went out to a Mexican restaurant and had a blast.......until "double bubble" took over and I then evacuated the area ASAP......this just verifies to me why I never drink. Who knew you could order a drink and they bring it to you in a goldfish bowl...huge! That is known as a margarita....again...who knew!

Six Flags Fun

2010-09-01T14:48:00.000-07:00

The younger kids each earned a free ticket to Six Flags this year through school.....so, that's where we went for a summer vacation. We went on my day off...got there when it opened, and stayed until it closed, then drove home because I had to work the next morning. We had a great time. Chad even bought the "Fast Pass" so we avoided any lines...yeah.

Joseph and the amazing technicolor dreamcoat 2010

2010-07-15T08:59:00.000-07:00

"Way way back many centuries ago.....not long after the Bible began..." Three months of songs, dancing, rehearsals and more has finally come down to this..... sit back and enjoy the show!!!

There's one more angel in heaven....

2010-07-15T08:56:00.000-07:00

During the "Angel in heaven" scene, I had a solo singing part...goodtimes!! The hoedown really worked out my stubborn ACL issues.

Go Go Go Joe!

2010-07-15T08:54:00.000-07:00

The 60's dance was my fav...I was up top on a platform and got to do many wild moves!!!!

and still more pics.....

2010-07-15T08:52:00.000-07:00

Random pics

2010-07-15T08:51:00.000-07:00

more "Joseph"

2010-07-15T08:49:00.000-07:00

Lots of new friends and oodles of fun!! I had 4 costume changes....The lovey wife costume....60's costume.....Pharoah costume...and the white mega-mix outfit...Loads of sweating going on!

More Go Go Go Joseph....

2010-07-15T08:45:00.000-07:00

Random pics from "Joseph". Thanks for all the well-wishes and flowers.

Happy 14th Jaden

2010-07-15T08:24:00.000-07:00

I can't beleive Jaden is 14!! Off to High School and seminary. For his b-day this year, we flew him to Omaha to spend it with friends. He is staying with the Youngs. I was a nervous wreck for him to fly solo.....but he made it. We sure miss him here at home..he is the babysitter while I work...Gavin is filling in for him. Happy birthday son.

Wisconsin Dells

2010-05-13T13:39:00.000-07:00

Our good friends, the Larsens, invited us to go the Wisconsin Dells with them for the weekend. They have a 6 year old, Malorie and then our 4. They seem to be calm and collect around us...they havn't told us to get lost yet. We stayed at The Wilderness Territory condos. We went to all of the indoor water parks, up seven or more flights of stairs for one ride(I"m counting that as physical therapy for the knee)...yeah, all in a swim suit. I say that any time I'm able to wear a swimsuit is a fabulous time. The more opportunities..the better. Well....wish granted! Two days of non-stop water...swimsuit heaven. We did lose Bailey for about 10 min....but we found her or she found us (in tears). We had such a fun time. We ended our stay with a birthday pinata.......and more candy. Thanks Larsens for a weekend getaway that our family will always remember!!

My baby is SEVEN!

2010-05-13T13:29:00.000-07:00

Bailey turned 7 today! I can hardly beleive it. She begged and begged for a friend birthday but I told her that those days are done, so instead she wanted to go to Disneyworld. I talked her into taking her friend Malorie to McDonalds....sold! She played in the dreaded germ play area for 2 hours and made some more friends, so really it was like a "friend" party. She wins! She wanted make-up for her b-day...she got lip gloss..as close to make-up as she'll get for a long time. She got a Zhu-Zhu pet and car, a game, glitter spray(fantastic), Betty Spaghetti (thanks G&G Zirker),and $$ from Ty. Thanks everyone.

Gavin turns twelve

2010-05-13T13:17:00.000-07:00

This year for Gavin's birthday, he wanted a bunch of books...done. He also got the game Pit, DS stuff, drum lessons and cards and $$ from you..thanks! He is now a deacon and can pass the sacrament...ahhh how fast they grow up.

Easter 2010

2010-05-13T12:19:00.000-07:00

This year for Easter we had a hunt and colored eggs..(my least favorite activity-right next to carving pumpkins). We invited our friends, the Larsens over and that made it much more fun.

The bunny found us and left way too much candy...perhaps the bunny hasn't seen the dental bill from the last 2 visits!!

Down & Derby 2010

2010-05-13T12:13:00.000-07:00

This was Parker's first official Pinewood Derby. He picked out his design and we went to Grandpa Zirker's house to cut it out.. Grandpa helped him sand it and gave pointers for a great car. Parker came in first for every race except one. He won the derby. Yeah Parker. Thanks to all those who helped (G Zirker). He got a big candy bar as his prize. Later in the week he got a package from G& G Zirker that was a 1st Place trophy for the derby. His name was engraved on it and everything. Parker loved it!! Thanks.

Glasses

2010-03-14T16:33:00.000-07:00

Guess who can't see the board at school? Guess who uses their right eye to see far away and their left eye to see close up? Guess who needed glasses? That's right.........my little Bailey Shay. I thought I was out of the clear with the 2 youngest needing glasses, but not so much. Wednesday: 4pm...Got glasses. Thursday: 8am...went to school to show friends, could see black board much clearer. Thursday 7pm...took glasses off face to play video games(?), Thursday 7:05pm...someone stepped on the new glasses. Thursday 7:07pm...cried hysterically for an hour. Friday 2pm...mom took glasses to store to be fixed. Sat.9am...glasses fixed and lady gave Bailey more "detailed" instructions on caring for her glasses. ALL IS WELL!

New tradition 2010

2010-03-14T16:20:00.000-07:00

This year for Chad's birthday, we took the family to a pizza parlor that I went to for every birthday in my family (that was about 12 times a year, except for the b-days that were in the same month). It's called Happy Joe's. When we found out that one existed here in Wisconsin, we were happy to drive an hour away for some great memories. We had BLT, taco and sausage. Of course they came and sang to us and brought us sundaes and the sirens went off too. It's looking like a great new tradition for the Hambrick family...

It's Birthday time

2010-03-14T16:13:00.000-07:00

Since mom was up here taking care of my family during my surgery, dad and Ty decided to come up for the birthday events (and to take mom back home). We had the b-day chair decorated, (even though I sat in that same chair for 8 weeks--birthdays will never be the same), mom made 4-layer dessert, there was singing, presents and lots of visiting. It's been many years since dad and I have celebrated our b-days together, it was very nice. Thanks for the presents and phone calls--(-between dad and I , the phone rang off the hook that night!) New b-day resolution.....no ladders!

Under the knife

2010-03-14T16:06:00.000-07:00

After a month of physical therapy, crutches, casts, immobilizers,etc.....I finally had surgery on Jan. 13th. I had my ACL replaced by a kind (dead), donor. I also had my miniskis(SP), clipped...it was too torn to be replaced...hope I don't need one later in life. I sat on my toush...except for going to PT 3X a week. After 8 weeks off of work, I returned to full duty with only the restriction of ladders and squatting. Thanks for all the "get well" cards, letters, flowers and phone calls. Hopefully after 6 months of PT I'll be as close to normal as I was before. (P.S. Daytime television stinks!)

All I want for Christmas is my two front teeth!

2010-01-11T14:36:00.000-08:00

Big news......Bailey Shay has lost her 2 front teeth (actually I tore them out of her mouth while she was screaming for me not to). The tooth fairy left some good cash for all the drama that went on.

Happy New Year!!

2010-01-11T14:34:00.000-08:00

We celebrated New Years' at mom and dads'. We had the traditional noisy- blow -things, the crowns, confetti, noise makers, streamers, and lots of screaming. Luckily Marlo's girls did not wake up during the festivities...we were pretty loud too. Mother Goose also found her way there...more presents under the tree. Happy Jan.1st.

Merry Christmas 2009

2010-01-11T14:27:00.000-08:00

We had a great Christmas this year. Santa found us and there was no coal this year. There were some BYU shirts, a drum set (yeah), a basketball hoop, DS lite, Strawberry shortcake stuff, a GPS (thanks mom & dad), a punching bag and lots of surprises. We left Christmas afternoon to drive to Dubuque for the week to be with family. I can't believe it's over and done with. On to Valentines Day.

Nursing home fun

2010-01-11T14:20:00.000-08:00

Jaden's guitar teacher got all of his students together to play Christmas carols at a nursing home. One would think this would be an excellent idea....except for the fact that these old folks weren't quite aware of the fact that there was a concert going on...one old man wheeled up around Jaden and was mumbling something to him and all I could think of was "Retreat..retreat"..Another old gal didn't even make it to the concert but could be heard yelling "Nurse, Nurse..I have to go potty", over and over again. I'm not even sure if 50% of the population there was awake. It was good fun and Jaden did a great job.

I've fallen and I can't get up!!!

2010-01-11T14:12:00.000-08:00

On Dec.5th I had a little mishap at work with a ladder. This mishap led to a torn ACL and medial miniskis (sp-not mini-skis). I've been in physical therapy for a month now in order to strengthen my muscles prior to surgery. Well, the day is almost here. On Wednesday (13th), I go in for new knee parts. It should be a quick surgery. Two weeks of NO weight...that should be great fun, a non-bending cast...YEAH, someone elses knee parts which could but shouldn't lead to infection, (I asked if I could have a preference on the knee selection....no one over 80, no runners etc...he thought I was crazy, I just didn't want to have to come back to see him any time soon with a knee replacement because of his faulty selection.) Anyways...I'll be in bed for the next couple of weeks so I'm trying to up-date the blog. Love to you all.

Christmas At the O.K. Corral

2010-01-11T13:54:00.000-08:00

The Holiday program this year was at the PAC (Peforming Arts Center). Parker actually auditioned for a part. He got the role of Mayor. It was one of the main parts. He went to school early for 2 months to practice. He did a great job. Bailey and her class sang. Their friend, Malorie came to cheer them on. Thanks and Merry Christmas!

Artist of the month!

2009-12-02T15:01:00.000-08:00

Way to go Jaden! We are thrilled for our Jaden to be 'Artist of the month." You have a great talent son...we love you!

Ode to 'New Moon'

2009-11-24T14:49:00.000-08:00

That time of the year has finally arrived.......'New Moon' is out in theaters..YEAH! In honor of the festivities, Bailey and I sported our vampire wear. No, she has not seen 'Twilight', but she knows her mom enjoys it (just a little), so she's on board! I'm off with some friends to see it tonight! Don't wait up.

Washington Trip

2009-10-10T12:54:00.000-07:00

Mom & I took the train (Amtrac),from Columbus WI to Euphrata WA, where Aunt Deb picked us up. We left on a Mon. @ 5pm and got to Washington on Wed. @ 4am. 36 hours on a train was quite a long trip, especially on the rear-end. The train did stop in Havre Montana---home of our dearest friends from Omaha---Gavin and Baileys' bestest friends. Even though I only got to see them for less than 10 min---both ways---it was still great to see Assunta, Jared & Kaitlyn. Thanks for the sweatshirt. Aunt Deb was waiting to pick us up as the train barely stopped for us to jump off. Mom & I stayed with grandma. We visited with almost all of her sisters and 1 brother(Kirk). We worked @ the candy shop dipping caramel apples & decorating them, we cleaned up grandma's yard so she wouldn't trip (two times---there was a terrible wind/dust storm and we had to re-rake and clean up after it), we watched conference, shopped at Maurices (twice), laughed until we had to excuse ourselves, ate at Inca's, visited Moses Lake (three times), laughed @ all of Gram's "Seen on TV" purchases(and even tryed out a few), found and ate 3 year old caramels---not me----only Grams and Mom, visited & visited, watched "Bonanza" with Gram, fed a stray/pregnant cat(everyday), went to Nesha's for a bbq & a seafood spread, went to Deb's for conference and cleaned Trish's room, went to the cemetary, saw Rex & Stan's new home (gorgeous--great workmanship), went next door to Hailey's home, visited with cousins I havn't seen in 10 years, and had a great vacation. We love you all & thank you for a great week.

Jaden

2009-09-27T16:30:00.000-07:00

You would think that a teenager would want to hurry the picture taking process along.....but not Jaden. He had to stand with the chickens, cross his eyes, rule his throne, and climb to new heights. All I wanted was a simple school picture. Gotta love that kid.

Gavin

2009-09-27T16:27:00.000-07:00

Here's my 11 year old Gav. He's in middle school and seems to like it. The first picture I took of him was good, so I only took one. Way to go Gav.

Parker

2009-09-27T16:25:00.000-07:00

I didn't have many pictures of Parker to choose from. He doesn't smile so much because of his appliance. He still is a handsome boy with straight teeth now.

Bailey Shay

2009-09-27T16:23:00.000-07:00

I never buy the school pictures because they are so expensive.....instead I try and take them myself. I don't know if it's worth it. Here are the many faces of my Shay.

Family Photos 2009

2009-09-26T14:23:00.000-07:00

Another year has past and I attempt each year to do some quick and easy pictures. WRONG! It takes sooo much time to have these 4 kids sit still for a picture. They have to be looking cross-eyed, holding up the peace signs, etc...all for fun. My friend and her husband joined us on this journey to take our pics....I'm sure we were super entertaining.

Bye, Bye FAT pants!!

2009-09-20T11:12:00.000-07:00

I've only kept 1 item of my former fat life....my biggest pants. Since I've nearly lost 70lbs. I decided to have a photo moment with these pants. I got Bailey involved by stuffing her into one of the legs while I was in the other. Once a size 28----now a size 14! These pants are going into my 72 hour kit----you never know when you may need a 3-man tent!

Hair today---gone tomorrow

2009-09-20T11:04:00.000-07:00

Well, Chad was getting sick of doing Bailey's hair every morning, and since i'll be gone for 10 days, I decided to make everyones lives a bit easier. I took Shay in for a cut. I did it 3 weeks ago before school and vowed never to do it again!(she's rather demanding) I took off 2 inches and they cut about 8 off yesterday. I asked for an A-line cut where it angled more in the front, BUT the hairdresser didn't speak fabulous english and so this is what I got. It's fine, but i wanted it shorter....SO, I'm taking her back this week for another cut.

Gavin's teeth

2009-09-20T10:57:00.000-07:00

Oh the joy has begun. Gavin got his 1st appliance last week. The goal of this is to spread his teeth out to make room for all his teeth. He gets 3 rounds of this, upper and lower. Then braces-----all before high school! Yeah!

Ode to the pool...

2009-09-06T15:40:00.000-07:00

Oh how we love our pool.....it has been such a relaxing escape---until I get splashed or flipped over or shot in the eye by a water gun. Yes,, very relaxing.

Bye bye Elementary school

2009-09-06T15:36:00.000-07:00

Yeah...Gavin graduated elementary school....off he goes to the big, bad Middleschool. Yikes!

Parker's baptism day

2009-09-06T15:33:00.000-07:00

Parker was baptized by his father in Dubuque, Iowa with his grandma & grandpa Zirker there and his grandma Hambrick. It was so special to have grandparents with us on Parker's special day.

Parker & Ty celebrate

2009-09-06T15:29:00.000-07:00

Parker was getting baptized the same time his uncle Ty (my brother) was graduating HS. We decided to head to Iowa for the celebrations. Thanks for the special cake mom.

Real cowboys don't take baths...they just dust off!

2009-09-06T15:23:00.000-07:00

Parker's first week in school his class was learning a program that they had been practicing for a couple of months. They knew he would be coming so they saved a part for him and gave him a partner. He picked up on the dance and all the songs in 1 week. When I went to the performance, you would never had known that he just learned it all. Way to rope 'em Parker!

WICKED

2009-09-06T15:15:00.000-07:00

Before we moved, Chad and I had tickets to see "Wicked" in Omaha. Chad had never seen it before and is not a "music lover". But he loved the soundtrack and the storyline. It was a fantastic cast, better than the cast in Hollywood (I thought). We both has a great night and would recommend seeing it to anyone!! Next up.....Legally Blonde-the musical!

New found love

2009-09-06T15:11:00.000-07:00

My friend Dawn taught me how to play the drums and it is my new favorite thing. She has an awsome set at her house and she's a great teacher. Thanks for all the laughs Dawn. Did someone say "drum solo?"