First Day of School

Ryan is in seventh grade this year and has all the adventures related to 8 classes, 8 teachers, cute girls, new friends, etc.

 Isabelle is my beautiful 4th grader.  Her teacher is Miss Pitardi.  Her besties are all in different classes, so she's a little anxious about making new friends.  Friends can make such a difference and she is such a sweetie, I hope it doesn't take too long.

I sure love these cuties even if they are growing up. 

Happy Birthday to my Boys!!!

Ryan turned the big 12 in July and Thomas wasn't far behind to celebrate turning 2.  Because Ryan was gone over his birthday we celebrated them together.  Grandma, Grandpa, Carolyn, Joann's family and Scott's nephew Kent joined us for the celebration.  It was a grand time.  How thankful I am to have such wonderful sons.

 Ryan requested Carne Asada for dinner (never made before but it turned out delish) and Grandma's fudge and ice cream for dessert.

 Yes, I'm aware Tommy is nearly naked, it's a challenge to keep him clothed.

 The video is short and funky but Tommy's already seen it and he insists that it stays.  (Do you wonder who rules the roost at our house?  Actually, several people fight for that distinction.)

 He loved his new train set. (Thanks Kellie for the treasure and thanks to Grandma for adding to it!)

Sour Face

The kids discovered a sour War Head candy leftover from Halloween (yes, I said Halloween).  I think they realized why is was leftover.

22222222222222222222222222222222222222222222222222222222222222222222222222222222222222

24th of July

Because we spent the evening picking Ryan up from the airport and then opening presents, we missed any big firework shows so we created our own.  Ryan loved helping light them (much to my uptight chagrin).  Thomas enjoyed watching and mostly stayed put.  Ashley was scared and watched from the front window until they were all done and she could just do poppers.

 Izzy and Katelyn Whiting

 Some of the crew

Ashley with her poppers and a smile!

The Triumphant Return (although The Exhausted Return would be more appropo)

The 15 days went slowly/quickly by and it was finally/already time to welcome our boy home!  We drew a message for him on the garage door and Isabelle and I colored a sign to take to the airport.  We arrived at the airport a little late and out of breath but fortunately, the boys were later than we were.  So we anxiously waited for the first sign of the "boys with the yellow hats".

 Excitedly waiting

 Ashley and Brig enjoyed playing together while we waited but refused to hold still for a picture. (Have you noticed that most of Ashley's friends are boys??  I have.)

 Although the pictures don't do it justice, these boys were delighted to see each other.

 Actually we were all delighted.  All three of the other kids followed Ryan around the rest of the night vying for his attention.  I think he couldn't decide whether he loved it or not!

 I was so glad to get my boy back.  He's growing up but he's still my little boy and I love him so.

It was a little to dark to see the sign well but at least he knew he was loved.

 While he was gone, Scott and I cleaned and organized his room including a nice new dresser.

 The only birthday balloon that we managed to get a picture of.

 Happy to be home and waiting for birthday presents.

 

Ryan's National Boy Scout Jamboree July 9-24

For the last two years Ryan has been working and saving and preparing for the National Boy Scout Jamboree.  Finally the day arrived!!  He was nervous and excited and I was a little (or a lot) sick to my stomach about sending my not yet 12 year old clear across the country for two weeks.  It was awful and wonderful all at the same time.  There were 6 boys who went from our ward and he went with several excellent scout leaders.  I was so proud of how hard he worked to get himself ready for this trip.  He celebrated his birthday while he was gone and it was kind of a rough day with lots of rain and homesickness.  We spoke with him twice that day and fortunately by the second call he was feeling much better and much happier.  I'm so fortunate to be the mother of this fine boy. 

 They had a special visitor before they left, Taysom Hill (BYU Quarterback) came to talk to them and shared his testimony.  It was a great kickoff for the whole event.

 My cute boy that I insisted on getting one last hug from before he left.

 He's watching us from the left window and was nervously excited to get on his way.

 The moment of truth (for me - I can't believe I dared to let him go!)

Deanne and I commiserated together often while the boys were gone.  I was so thankful that Ryan was able to be with one of his best friends for such an adventure.