Enjoying the Journey

Remembering 9-11

2011-09-13T09:44:00.001-06:00

Sunday we were able to go to a ceremony that our little town held for remembering 9-11. It was very nice and brought back a lot of memories. The scouts from our ward were asked to help with the flag ceremony. It was nice to see all our boys there helping. It lasted for almost an hour and was nicely done. I think it will be a nice little tradition for our family to do in the future. It got over just in time for us to head to church...yes... Corey was thrilled!!!...thats a long time to be in a suit :)

Birthday!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2011-09-13T09:40:00.001-06:00

My birthday was great. Clint had gone the extra mile to try and make it special for me even though he was 1200 miles a way. Wednesday night he had set up a little surprise party with the YW for me....it was fun and totally was a surprise to me. Then he had the kids do things for me on my birthday. It was just a good day. Im thankful for Clint and how harad he tried to make my day special. It is hard to have him gone so far away but we will surely enjoy him when he comes home..soon I hope:)

Labor Day 2011

2011-09-13T09:36:00.001-06:00

We went to Emmett to spend labor day with my family. Robert was here from Utah so we decided to go hang out with everyone over there and go to the lake. We have a great time and made some great memories....Im so thankful for families!!!!

After boating we headed back to Grandma and Grandpas where Grandma had been busy making a huge feast for us...most of which came from their garden. It was sooo good....we always have such a great time in Emmett and it had been a while since we had been there so Im glad we went!! Thanks Mom and Dad!!!
(Oh by the way I stole these last pictures from my sister Mary since I didnt take any after we got back..thanks Mary!!!)

LAS VEGAS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2011-08-30T16:08:00.003-06:00

This past weekend we traveled to Las Vegas with my family for the funeral of my Uncle Steven. He had been sick for quite a few years. I am so glad I was able to go to the funeral. Uncle Steven was a very amazing Man and I new that but I didn't realize how much. His kids gave terrific talks at the funeral. I will always remember Uncle Stevens smile. I dont think I ever saw him without a smile. I came away from the funeral being so thankful for the privilege of knowing my Uncle Steven and wanting to be a better person. He was sooo service oriented!! He loved his family so much and I want to be just like him!! I am glad to be a BRINKERHOFF...they are some amazing people...well you knew that right!! hehe
Well, after the funeral my kids and I took advantage of being in Las Vegas and went and took in as much as we could!!! WE had such a great time just being together...It was HOT!!!! to say the least..111 degrees but we didnt seem to mind..we cooled off a lot by going in the casinos and seeing things. We walked somewhere between 6 to 7 miles.. a little more than we planned...one guide told me how far we had come and I told him I wouldnt tell my kids till we got back to our room for fear they would kill me. Corey was a trooper and stuck out everything just like the big kids..we were all exhausted by the time we got back to our room at 1 in the morning but we had a great time so it was worth it.

as soon as we got to Vegas at 10:30 p.m. and opened the car door and that 100 degree weather hit us...oh my!!! We stayed at the Stratosphere so we ventured to the top of the building to enjoy the view. Mary and her family were the only ones that went along with us.

We got up the next morning and had to leave for the church at 8....

After the funeral we went to the top of the Stratosphere again to see Vegas in the daylight. Then we began our journey.....

Corey would have been thrilled to stay at CIRCUS CIRCUS all day long. It would have been fun but there was just too much else to see....

Corey LOVED the pirate show...a ship sank and there were cannons shot off and tons of fireworks and fires. It was so fun to watch his face..here we are waiting....

FINALLy....after all the walking we made it to the M&M factory

after all our fun we decided to find the Monorail to ride back..I knew we were not going to be able to walk all the way back ..it was almost 11...we had to still walk about a half mile from the last stop of the Monorail. We enjoyed staying at the Stratoshpere but it is a long ways from the main part of the casino..but we wouldnt have been able to go the top of the space needle thing if we didnt stay there and that was definitely a highlight.

The next morning we woke up and got out of the motel by 9:00 to head home...but we decided to stop at one more casino on the way home. Uncle Kent has told us about a Casino that you could see mermaids swim..so we had to see that.

So that was our trip...it would be so fun to stay a few more days in Las Vegas. there are so many things to see. We had a great time together and I am so glad that I was able to remember all the fun times and fun things about Uncle Steven and a rejuvination to be a better person. I am so blessed!!!!!

Costco Adventures

2011-08-30T16:07:00.002-06:00

We always have an adventure when we go to Costco and this day was no different!!!!!

Bus Ride

2011-08-30T16:04:00.002-06:00

Corey likes riding the bus and it is so fun watching him and Corey leave in the morning. The kids get a big kick out of asking Corey questions about his day and all the funny things he says about school. Corey sings songs from school all day long and it has been fun to see him adjust to going to school..he has done great!!

Update on Clint

2011-08-30T15:58:00.003-06:00

Clint is still working in North Dakota. He was able to come home for all of the Flower harvest which was such a relief to me!! We had a great time doing as much as we could while he was home. It was so nice to have him around all the time...it was like a vacation for us...he took Craig to school every day which was special for Craig. I heard hinm tell Corey the other day that they wouldn't have to ride the bus when Dad came home. Clint is so good to do things with the kids as much as he can. He missed us terribly I know and we miss him. He started a new job a couple weeks ago which he will be working 4 weeks on 2 weeks off. That will be great to have him home for two weeks every once in a while. He is doing good and tries to stay as busy as they will allow.

First day of School 2011....

2011-08-23T12:18:00.003-06:00

Here we go with the first day of school...this is not my favorite day at all. I love it when the kids are home. I love that they like school and enjoy being with their friends and learning lots. We have had a fun fast summer..crazy how fast. This is going to be a great school year too. First of all Corey is going to Kindergarten..how could that be!!!! He is excited and a little nervouse. Craig will be in real junior high..switching classes all day...he is taking AP classes already..and Freshman math..What a boy..Heather is crazy busy with life already...she leaves at 5 in the morning to swim from 530 to a little after 7..then heads to seminary at Valliuvue 0 hour. Homedale gave her first hour free so she would be able to do this..then at 830 she heads to Homedale for the rest of her school day..after school she has a couple of different jobs she will be working at. She is really getting serious about swimming and is representing Valliuvue on their High school team. She is doing extremely well and will hopefully qualify for nationals by March and yes she is getting skinnier all the time...we all need to head to the pool:)

Yesterday I rode the bus home with Corey so today I took pictures of him getting off the bus cause I forgot to take the camera..he loves the bus even though he is on it for an hour coming home..he jumped off today and said that was a lot shorter than yesterday...whatever!!! goofy boy!!..heres hoping he doesnt get in trouble as Amber did :)

Where Does The Time GO!!!!!

2011-08-23T11:09:00.002-06:00

Oh dear!!! A lot has been going on since January and I am such a slacker!! I havent even been very faithful in taking pictures but here I go to give you a fsst undate on the last 7 months and a picture overload..I am going to try to go backwards so it stays in order..I may have some things out of order too so just enjoy and I will try to be better at not getting behind..no promises though!!!

School is about to start so the kids have been doing a lot lately to cram in everything they can before it starts. We have had a few trips to roaring springs..of which I did not take pictures..but we had a blast!!! It is so fun to have fun with the kids and just enjoy life..I am so Lucky to have the greatest kids ever...and I miss them while they are at school!!!!

We have had a great time this summer with Heathers swim meets..She is so diligent in her swimming and trying to get better..we are so proud of her...

ADVENTURES WITH COREY...

We discovered layered drinks this summer and Craig has had a blast creating these with Corey...

More with Craig and Corey

Fun times only on a farm

Always finding time to swim...

We were given Meridian Speedway tickets and had market that day so we were tired and also had things to get done at home..Heather was busy..so Amber willingly took the boys to the races..They had a blast and I know it was a special time they spent with Amber...Thanks Amber...your a great BIG Sister!!!

Amber was lucky enough to go see Tim McGraw with Brenda

GRADUATION DAY for Amber!!! So crazy to think she has graduated..just yesterday I remember putting her on the Kindergarten bus and then crying my eyes out. Time has flown by. We are very proud of Amber and her accomplishments. She has taken school to its highest level..taking all AP classes and receiving a lot of college credit already. She is ranked in the top 5 in her class. She has studied hard and played hard. Good Luck Amber in your endeaveors!!! We know that whatever you do you will put your very best into it because that is who you are. You are AMAZING and we LOVE you unconditionally!!!

Amber graduating from the nursing program..she is now a CNA.. we couldnt be more proud. She works so hard and does her very best. You will be an amzing nurse and even a more amazing doctor(pediatrician) if you take it that far.

PROM..Amber beautiful as always!!!

Amber had an amazing opportunity to go to Washington DC to represent Idaho for BPA. Remember last year she went to California. She had a great time and I was a little jealous I didnt get to go this time but was thankful she got to go with her teacher this time. She took over 250 pictures so there are so many I could have posted.

EASTER 2011...We had a great party down at Romriells as usual and then a quiet Easter day. We are always o thankful for the opportunity to refekct on what the Savior has doen for us. We are so blessed to have the gospel in our lives.

Sixth grade Field trip and Clint and I both went..and Corey..it was really fun

Clint worked day and night to get Coreys motorcycle ready for him to ride on one of his trips home...then he spent a day helping corey learn to ride it..of course within an hour he was riding great but then Craig Corey and him spent the rest of the day riding..it was great...terrific memories!!!

Senior/Faculty game..fundraiser for Senior class party..this was the funnest game ever to watch.. the teachers were great sports even though there where about 8 of them and 40-50 Seniors...Amber participated and had a great time.

On day I think during spring break..Corey Heather and I went to bounce with Andrea and Jody and all the younger kids. Craig and the older boys were riding motorcycles I think. It was so fun and I decided we need to go more often

Corey had Kindergarten registration/screening and I was so nervous..he just doesnt even show any interest in doing any things of the sort..I finally got him to spell his name..PHEW!!! He did great at registration and new way more than I thought he did..I am now relieved..he will be just fine..why did I doubt!!

Heather has taken on swimming and swims every day for couple hours and yes she is very thin!!! We have fun going to her swim meets and she is so into it trying to make it to nationals..Way to go Heather!!!!

Last Basketball game for the season...senior night..Amber spent a lot of time gathering things for the Senior boys..She is busy busy busy!!!

Of course we can never let a superbowl go by without having our party!!!

Amber had been very busy this being her senior year and she hasnt let one game go by that she doesnt get completely into the spirit and support her classmates. She has such a great time and it shows...Im glad she is having fun and enjoying her last year

Clints new job....

2011-01-25T21:34:00.002-07:00

So this is what Clint has been up to..he is in North Dakota driving trucks that move the oil riggers around to different sites. He is enjoying it I think although it is WAY cold but he is getting used to it...He said it was 32 degrees the other day and it felt so nice...ugh!!! It has been as low and =20. I think really he would like to come home and things are still up in the air about when he will...we miss him but it is probably harder for him cause we are all together and still going about life...he will be home for a short visit Feb 16 for a chemical meeting...we are all excited...here is a few pics of what he up to...

GRAVEL

2011-01-25T21:32:00.002-07:00

Just before Clint left we had our neighbors Jesse (who Clint is with in North Dakota) bring us a couple loads of gravel. It was fun to go with him and get the gravel and watch him dump it and all that great stuff...but most of all it is terrific to have gravel now instead of MUD!!!!! Thanks Jesse...you are a great neighbor!!!

Happy New Year 2011!!!

2011-01-25T21:28:00.002-07:00

Our new years was a very interesting one. Both Amber and Heather had their own parties they went to so they were gone most of the day. Clint is taking a new job that will be in North Dakota and he left Saturday at 2 in the afternoon...so Friday he and I spent all day getting him ready and all his stuff together and a little apprehensive and the whole thing. Kinda a sad time. We did have a fun time though..Santa always comes back to see us with family games on his way back to the North Pole...so of course he brought X-Box games. The boys has a great time playing them.
IT GONNA BE A GREAT YEAR!!!! I just know it!!!

CHRISTMAS 2010

2011-01-25T21:15:00.003-07:00

I dont take nearly enough pictures at Christmas because I just loves watching he kids enjoying everything. We are so blessed with such great kids and such a great life. We have such fun together and both Clint and I are so thankful for that. Christmas is always so much fun for us and a great time to reflect on all the blessing we have and for the birth of the Savior. We are so greatful for the gospel in our lives. We are thankful for our great family.
This is Christmas Eve...Blankets and pajama bottoms are always a must on Christmas eve.....and making sugar cookies :) of course

Santa has arrived

Now Santa came around 3a.m......by 3:30 a.m. two boys were in our room wondering what time it was....we held them off till 4:30...I went and took a shower...5:00 Amber is drug out of bed and by 5:30 Christmas is complete!!!!! What a day...Corey did not go to sleep until around 10 that evening..he was pretty grumpy by then but I was amazed he stayed awake that long!!!

some Corey shots because he is our favorite cowboy!!

We got an X-Box 360 with Kinect and it is amazing...no controller is the greatest invention ever..it means no batteries and no figuring out which buttons to push...it is so much fun and hilarious to watch...I just had to get these pictures of the guys dancing....story if there attire...the sales guy told Clint tighter clothing works best so the reader can see you better....Im not sure he meant this TIGHT!!!!

Notice...Corey doesnt need to worry about tight clothing:)

Craigs school partys are coming to an end.....

2011-01-25T21:13:00.002-07:00

I really dont think Craig realizes that this is thelast year he will be having school parties...Kinda sad...but Corey starts up next year so no break for me :)Corey loves going to Craigs school and hanging out and his class loves Corey.
Corey was very serious and making his gingerbread house and did a great job!!!

SNOW SNOW SNOW

2011-01-25T21:10:00.003-07:00

This year we have gotten quite a bit of snow and the kids have really enjoyed it. Corey and Craig have really had fun this year and even Corey has stayed out there longer that I thought he would. One night Clint pulled them on the four wheeler till like 9:30...it was crazy(and a school night!!!)Oh dear!! Us Romriells!!!

John Deere Christmas Party

2011-01-25T21:06:00.002-07:00

Dec 12th was Clint work Christmas party. It is a really nice dinner for just the adults. This year they had it at the Hilton in Boise and offered rooms for really cheap so we decided to get one cause the kids LOVE staying in hotels. It was a lot of fun. I didnt take many pictures ...but the pool was a hit :)

Happy Birthday to 5 year old COREY

2011-01-25T21:02:00.002-07:00

Corey;s birthday was a little calm because Clint had to make a run to Washington and didnt get home till midnight, the girls of course had various activites going on...so Craig Corey and I celebrated..Corey didnt seem to mind at all..he was just excited about all of it...I guess being the youngest.....stuff happens..it was a fun day!!!

Beautiful AMBER!!!

2011-01-25T20:59:00.003-07:00

As always Amber is such a beautiful girl. Thanksgiving Day Diane and her went out and took some more great Senior Pictures. They turned out so great...it is so hard for me to pick a favorite!! Diane does such a great job..be sure to check out her stuff...her site is one my side bar :)

some black and white...which I LOVE!!

Family pics

2011-01-25T20:57:00.001-07:00

Time for catch up....life is great...

We took these pictures Thanksgiving day...we need to do more soon

Winter Formal 2010

2010-12-09T16:33:00.002-07:00

Winter formal time already...right after the Christmas party Amber and Heather went to Carols and did hair. Thanks Carol so much. The girls had fun doing hair and being with you. And their hair looked AMAZING!! Sorry it took so long....we should have started during the party..next time. The girls had a great time at the dance with friends..the best way to go to a dance right....Hopefully I will get some pictures from them with their friends soon..for now here are the ones before they left the house.
HEATHER...First Formal dance ....

AMBER...Last High School Winter Formal..:(

They both looked BEAUTIFUL..Im so grateful for such beautiful amazing daughters. They mean te world to me and I love them soooo much...Thanks Amber and Heather for being so terrific

Brinkerhoff Christmas Party...2010

2010-12-09T16:23:00.002-07:00

Christmas party already...oh my is time flying. It was so much fun to be with family again. This year we didnt exchange gifts with each other. Instead we all did service throughout the year and shared out experiences during the party. It was such a great feeling and so neat to hear what everyone did. We are going to continue with this which our family is very grateful for. There are so many ways to serve others every single day and in the simplest ways. It really makes us feel richer all the time. After that we did a white elephant gift exchange which is always very loud and exciting for the Brinkerhoffs. It was so fun.. this year the hot items that we argued over were...pliers, scissors, and tape measure..all from Home Depot...and John Deere hats and a John Deere waterbottle. Great stuff for the lucky people who ended up with them..next came Santa and of course we ate in there somewhere too. It was a great party and great tradition...let the Holidays begin..I feel a great spirit this year...Thanks Mom and Dad

Thanks Mary for the great job organizing the party...it was terrific!!!

SNOW DAY!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2010-12-09T16:20:00.002-07:00

December 1st we woke up to TONS of snow and it snowed most of the day. As a result I think every school in the Treasure Valley closed for the day. It was soooo much fun. Heather and Craig stayed out pretty much all day. Corey lasted for a couple of hours which was great. Amber...well you will see pretty soon. She didnt have snow pants so wasnt very excited to be out. I love when the kids are home! I would have it everyday..but I know their friends like me to share them..it was fun to have the house full of cousins and friends...even if they were et and cold...lot of hot chocolate and hot soup we had this day :)

Tree Cutting

2010-12-09T16:14:00.003-07:00

Saturday was filled with Thanksgiving festivites at the Romriells. Horribly I didnt take any pictures but it was a blast just the same. We cut down trees..Mc Michaels and Thatchers came to help Clint so he wouldnt have another accident :) They were tremendous help and made it that much more fun. Cousins galore were there and when we were all out there gathering, chopping, and all that fun stuff we got a LOT done. Many hands make light work...Grandma Carroll always used to say that...it is so so true :) I wish I had pics because it was a glorious site...Theresa took video of the huge tree falling....and there were no casualties! We also had a scrumptious dinner. Lots of hot chocolate and a warm fire as well. Once again it is great to be surrounded by such great family and friends. Life is GOOD!!!!!

Thanksgiving 2010

2010-12-09T16:02:00.002-07:00

Thanksgiving this year was the Brinkerhoff side of the familly. It was great fun and everyone was able to be there..except Sarah who had to work...bummer!! Lots of laughter and being together. I am so thankful for such a great family and great parents that brought me up in the gospel. I am so grateful for a loving Savior and that cares so deeply for each of us. We are truly blessed to live in these days.
ALL OF US.....

THE GRANDKIDS......

Pictures showing what a great time we all had

I got these pictures from Diane and when I posted this I realized there isnt one of John and Diane...darn...
What a great family we have..Thank you Mom and Dad for doing such a great job and for being such great examples to our kids..they all think the world of you and I love that!!! Thanks for the great day!!!

Quick update on Clint

2010-11-18T22:06:00.000-07:00

Corey and Craigs Dentist Trip

2010-11-18T22:04:00.001-07:00

WARNING!!!..Not for the faint of heart!!!!!

2010-11-09T14:58:00.002-07:00

Ok...this post has not been easy for me to do cause I can hardly look at the pictures so you have had fair warning. Saturday Clint decided to cut down a limb from one of Grandmas tree to get her some firewood and some smaller branches for a bonfire for the kids. Well....the huge branch he was cutting came towards him when he thought it would go the other way. He threw the chainsaw and tried to get out of the way but the tree hit him on the way down. He was on a 10 foot ladder by the way so not too easy to get out of the way. It hit him straight in the face and then that far of a fall was not too easy on him either. Luckily Laena, our niece, Thersas daughter, who is also an ER nurse, had just gotten there 10 min earlier. Amber Heather and I were at a baptism. We got a call from Laena saying she was on her way to the ER with Clint. We were on our way home so we just followed them there. Laena was great to have around and she stayed and helped us all the way through. Clint was very grateful to her and was thankful she was a nurse. She is a very good nurse and we are proud of her. Ok...so her goes the pictures....

Clint got 30 stichtes all together...25 on the outside and 5 on the inside. It took an hour to stitch up but the doctor did a great job...he will still have a scar but hopefully not too bad..he is not excited to have a scar...the kids think its cool...

October stuff

2010-11-09T13:20:00.003-07:00

Since October is gone...which I am in complete denial....I better hurry and get this post done. I didnt take pictures during Halloween at all but we had a great time. WE had Trunk or Treat at the church Saturday which was real fun and then we went o Thatchers haunted house and had a great time there. It is so great to have such fabulous friends!! Then Sunday night we hung out with the Romriells and had a big bonfire..which in an understatement..it was huge...we burned a whole tree at once..It was really a fun time and hopfully you can see from the pictures..I only had my cell phone. Life is good and we are gearing up for the holiday season!!

Thanks to Jamie for taking Corey to the pumkin patch.(also thanks Jamie for the great picture..I stole them:) He loves Jake and is always saying he is his best friend. They are great pals and are going to have such a great adventure in life together..I just hope the parents can keep up!!!!!

Clints Birthday.....

2010-10-21T19:21:00.002-06:00

We celebrated Clints birthday Monday evening since we were driving all day Sunday, which was actually his birthday. What a great hardworking Dad we have...we are thankful for him and hope he has a lot more birthdays!!!!

Salt Lake Trip

2010-10-21T18:57:00.002-06:00

The kids had Thurs and Friday of the first week of October off of school so we decided to go visit Robert, tour the University of Utah, and go to LAGOON. It was so much fun and we are so glad we went. We didnt spend a ton of time with Robert but we appreciated him letting us stay there and seeing him what little we did. Mary and Troys family were down there to so it was fun to see them a little bit too.

Amber and I toured the University from 1:00 until and little after 5 on Friday. It was well worth the time and I really think that Amber really got excited and is ready to head to college now. It felt so weird going through and campus for a daughter..really I dont feel I should be this old!!! Im glad we were able to do this for Amber though..she meet with a nursing advisor as well and that was very helpful to her. While we were doing all this Clint took the other kids to The Aquarium located in Sandy.. I really think Amber was greatful to see the van leave the parking lot..hehe!!!
Heather was instructed to take pictures...when they got back I asked if she did and she said yes....but....not of anyone...just the fishes and things....silly girl!!!

After that we all rode the trolleys and train and meet at the mall...Heather left the camera in the car at the train station...hence no Salt Lake pics..one from my cell phone..it was too dark so I didnt take many.

We headed back to Roberts by 9:30 on the Train...our favorite thing!!!!

The next morning we headed to Lagoon where I didnt take any pictures except for 1 of Corey from my phone. I didnt want to carry around the camera and since we didnt have to have a stroller this year I was selfish and didnt take it...I love riding the rides and ride as many as I can so who can be bothered with a camera. We had a ton of fun..It was all decked out with Halloween things and come night spooky people came out all dresses up to scare...Corey was thrilled with it...Amber and Heather were freaked out and wanted to stay in the kid section where they wouldnt scare you...silly girls...all in all we had tons of fun and stayed until 9:30..we waited for Corey to say he was done..he rode like crazy and wanted on the biggest rides he could go on..no little kids rides for him anymore...we love lagoon...Oh Amber was not feeling the greatest after a few rides so hung out with Corey most of the time..Sh was a good sport for not feeling great.

I stole these from Mary...Sunday morning we all just hung out at Roberts before we all headed home. We are so thankful for Robert. He has such a beautiful place and the kids love it there.

The trip home was lots of fun...Amber was in a silly mood and we were so goofy and had a great time....we stopped like 3 times before we were even 50 miles away and that seemed to be funny to us...maybe we were tired...nobody slept the whole way home though which surprised me...I really thought Corey would...We got home about 9:30 pm..unpacked..and headed to bed to be ready for school tomorrow!!!

We stopped at Shoshone Falls for some site seeing...

Corey

2010-10-21T18:56:00.000-06:00

Womens Walk 2010

2010-10-21T18:52:00.002-06:00

Womens walk was great this year. Amber Heather and I have been training since the beginning of August to be able to run the whole 3.1 miles. Well Amber and Heather could have already done it..but I had to train seriously.. It was so great and we all did it. I did not stop at all and it was so wonderful. I was so proud of myself and Clint surprised me and was waiting at the finish line..yup I cried..i couldnt help it!! I am really proud of Amber and Heather and how much they have helped me with my exercising...they keep me going.
This was also prob Ambers last year which was kind of sad..she will be away for college..we have done this together since she was 5...Brenda and Maddi came and ran with us and it made it fun to celebrate Ambers last year for a bit.

Happy Birthday Amber

2010-10-21T18:47:00.002-06:00

WOW...18 years old...seriously how did this happen. 18 years have flown by..just yesterday Amber started kindergarten...Amber you are truly amazing and full of life and fun. You take advantage of everything in life that comes your way. You are going to be an amazing adult!! It is so fun to watch you growing and learning. WE are so incredibly proud of you and we are thankful for your great example to all of us...I hope we take advantage of each and every moment of this year with you. You are amazing and never forget that...we love you so so much!!

Football time...

2010-10-21T18:44:00.002-06:00

I realize that football season is almost over now. Craig has been doing great and loving every second of it. He is now captain of the defense and was MVP of the game two games ago. They have won all their games and the championships start next week...it has been fun to watch Craig learn and get excited about this...next he says he is playing basketball this year.

Sunday afternoon fun....

2010-10-21T18:43:00.002-06:00

One Sunday after church Craig and Corey got our big fan out and invented this game. It was hilarious and they played for hours!!!

Finally TREK Photos.....

2010-10-21T14:55:00.004-06:00

Ok, I know this has been a long time coming but I have to back track to the last week of July which changed our lives forever. Clint, Amber, Heather and I were fortunate enough to be able to go on a trek to Wyoming with our Stake Church Youth Group. It was simply AMAZING. There really are no words to describe all of our feelings. We had the time of our lives and you will see by the millions of pictures we took. We surly received a great love for our great pioneers that came before us. We were closer because all of the worldly distraction were not there. Seriously it was a surreal experience and I would hope that everyone would take the chance to go if it ever comes your way. I know we would definitely pack and go tonight if we had the chance.
Here we are ready to go...as you can see we are sooooo clean and excited...so get ready for tons of pictures...we took close to 400...oh my!!!

Finally we arrived after a very very very long bus ride.........

The First night we hiked 6 or 7 miles and it was terrific the spirit we felt and things we learned... Then we ate dinner and had some square dancing which I didnt get pictures of because we were setting up camp.
the next morning we woke bright and early, packed up, had breakfast and were off for out 15 mile day hiking over Rocky Ridge....I was nervous but it turned out to be amazing and not as difficult and I had thought for me...I did get some major blister between my toes but was fine!!

HAPPY AND READY TO GO......

This just warmed my heart and was such an amazing site I had to catch it...here we go!!!!

Break Time...Maybe half way at this point...still everyone happy...notice we are not as clean as we used to be :).....

That evening we had a great fireside by our stake presidency. It was so wonderful and the spirit was so strong...Im pretty sure we were all humbled and close to the spirit by then. As we left the fireside we walked past the graveside of the ones that died on Rocky Ridge. There was no talking or any noise..it was such a truly sweet spirit that night....the next morning we packed up, had breakfast and headed to Martins Cove...another truly amazing spiritual day....we only hiked for maybe 6 miles but it seemed harder...a little warm...but the spirit was amazing!!!

That evening we had a ward fireside which was very very spiritual. The testimonies by the youth were amazing and I realized they were experiencing things the way I would hope they would. What special youth we have today...I am so blessed to be able to be surrounded by them...the next morning we packed up and headed to Salt Lake...YIPEE...this is what we have been working towards...the TEMPLE.
Seriously everyone was so wonderful this whole time...packing their own things and tents. We never had any complaints at all and always had each other helping one another. It was so wonderful to watch!!

Now this next pictures is SWEET I think...the bus ride to Salt Lake was very calm...for awhile anyway....

But...some didnt sleep all the way...Notice Heather is a large part of this noise...generally I could ALWAYS here her voice...she sure enjoys life!!

Amber decided it would be a great idea to take some before and after pictures of some characters.....

And we finally arrive it Salt Lake and check into the Shilo Inn....the showers were amazing and the water was even warm...we had heard rumors of having cold water with that many people showering at once..but didnt happen this time. Our baptisms were not until 8:00 pm so we had time to shower eat lunch and go see some sights...

Next we head to the temple with a wonderful surprise from Audrey Brown for the youth..She was there waiting to see everyone...she has been down here receiving and bone marrow transplant for her leukemia. Everyone was so thrilled to see her. What a great icing to our trip

Now....there are really no words that can express our time in the temple. We had many tears shed and all of happiness and joy and overwhelming love felt for our ancestors. What a special experience we had that I know these youth will always remember....it was simply AMAZING...i know I keep saying that but really there are no other words.

We went back to the motel and Bishop got pizza for our ward...everyone was starving..it was like 10:30 by the time we came back. It was terrific to sleep in beds that night but we were up and ready to go but 7 the next morning...tons to see..soo fun....the ways these kids bonded and were friends during this whole time was so fun!! We really had some kids come out of there shell...have I said how AMAZING this has been this whole time...well it WAS!!!

We had the great opportunity to heard from Elder Grow in the Assembly Hall the last two hours before we headed home. It was such an amazing way to end this great time. He had the youth come prepared with questions that a prophet could answer. It was fun to hear their questions and also hear his answers. We learned and felt the spirit so much. He was a great speaker..I think we could have listened for hours more...well I could have.
Well time to load the bus and head home....it really was a bitter sweet. I was excited to come home and see the boys but I really did not want this to end...it was hard...The bus ride home was a little crazy but we really had some fun...laughing and be together and having a great time.

Like I said it was very hard to say goodbye and have this end. Over the few days following I seriously felt like I was walking on air...it was so surreal...even Heather made the comment she didnt want to watch TV or anything...it was such a great spirit we carried around.. I am so thankful for this tremendous experience that we were able to have. I am especially thankful that we got to experience it with Amber and Heather. It really made it so much more special. I hope someday our whole family can go back.

Homecoming Week!

2010-09-26T19:00:00.006-06:00

This past week was Homecoming Week in Homedale. Amber and Heather both had tons of fun this week. The week was full of dressing up, toilet papering, and school spirit. Here are a bunch of pictures from the week :)

Monday morning the Seniors get up early and wake up the Freshmen. They all get together and dress them up and take them to breakfast, after making them sing and dance in town. Amber made the t-shirts and I thought she did a really good job!! Even though they dressed up the Freshman to embarass them, the Seniors did treat them nicely. :)

The dress up theme for Tuesday was Geek. So here is Amber's attire :)

Wendsday was the Powder Puff game. The Seniors didn't end up winnning but they had lots of fun playing. Craig had a game that night too in Notus, which his team won.

Friday was the Homecoming parade. Amber was nominated for Homecoming Queen, so she dressed up and got to ride in the parade. It was especially cool that Amber and Jordan got to ride together because her and Jordan have been friends for a really long time. He is like part of our family. Travis Kraupp drove her and Jordan in the parade. It was very fun. Amber appreciates all the Kraupps do for her!
Grandpa Brinkerhoff brought his truck over for the Senior Class to ride on. All the other classes were definitely jealous. :) Thanks again Grandpa!!

Friday night was the Homecoming football game (Homedale won!!). Amber had to wear her dress to the game because they crown queen at halftime. Amber was beautiful, as always. We are very proud of her and how she represents herself in front of all her friends. Caitlyn Johnson, one of Amber's friends, got the crown. Amber did get a runner-up crown. She will always be the winner in our eyes. :)

The bottom right picture is Amber talking to Grandpa and Grandma Brinkerhoff after finding out the results. I love her expression. Grandpa really made her whole week the best it could be!!

Saturday was the Homecoming dance. The theme was 80's. Talk about a flash back in memories!! I could see myself in High School when I saw Heather and Amber. I don't know how Amber got a comb through her hair afterwords!! Heather didn't take any pictures with her friends really. She got ready at one of her friend's house so we didn't get any of her. Both girls had a fun time dancing with all their friends.

Homecoming week was a blast and I'm glad both Amber and Heather could enjoy themselves with their friends. I'm also glad it's over so I don't have to pick up anymore toilet paper!! Now it's time to get back to normal, whatever that it around here!!! :)

Amber's Senior Pictures...

2010-08-21T14:36:00.002-06:00

Diane did some of Amber's senior pictures back in July. They turned out so good. Diane did AMAZING!! :) (The link to her blog is on the right, under favorite sites.)

First day of School 2010...

2010-08-21T14:24:00.002-06:00

Back to school for us on the 18th of August. This year Amber is a senior, Heather is a sophomore, and Craig is in 6th grade. Corey wore his Batman mask and cape to take Craig down to the school. He got quite a bit of attention, I don't know how much Craig liked it. :)

One last trip to the lake...

2010-08-21T13:54:00.002-06:00

Before we headed back to school, we went over to Emmett to go boating. We had a fun time (like we always do :]) with cousins. There are lots of picture from tubing and skiing. Thanks Grandpa for taking us to the lake!! :) And thanks Grandma and Grandpa for the fun little party!! :) WE LOVE YOU!!!!

THANKS AGAIN GRANDMA AND GRANDPA!!! :)

Megan and Jake...

2010-08-21T13:50:00.003-06:00

A couple weeks ago Megan and Jake Kraupp came to play at our house. Corey loved playing with them. They had fun playing with light sabers. And Megan liked wearing Amber's glasses. :)

Corey, Corey, Corey

2010-08-21T12:56:00.002-06:00

A couple weeks ago we came home from somewhere and Corey got out of the car and was dancing to the radio. (In yellow swimsuit) He's quite the little dancer. It was pretty funny. And the other pictures shouldn't be hard to figure out, Amber put him in a bucket. :)

Swimming Fun..

2010-08-21T12:39:00.001-06:00

This summer Corey took swim lessons. He is quite the little fish. He is awesome at swimming, mostly underwater. It's fun to watch him. All the kids love to swim and they did a lot of it this summer!! :)

Drive-In Movies

2010-08-21T12:31:00.003-06:00

We love the Drive-In movies. This summer we were able to go a couple times. It's always lots of fun. We brought John Deere suckers one time that leave a picture on your tongue (as you'll see in the pictures). We always enjoy spending time together at the movies!!

Heather's 15th Birthday!

2010-08-21T12:26:00.001-06:00

For Heather's birthday, we had a little party and then headed to the Drive-In movies. It was tons of fun. We love you Heather!!

Happy 11th Birthday Craig!!

2010-08-21T12:20:00.002-06:00

For Craig's birthday, we just had a little party with a couple cousins. Craig got some stickers to put on his motorcycle. He was pretty excited!! :) We love you, Craig!!!

Summer: Corey and Amber

2010-08-21T12:13:00.003-06:00

There were a few weeks this summer when Corey and Amber were the only ones home. Craig and Heather would go to friends' houses and so Corey and Amber had a lot of fun times together. :)

All in a Day's Work......

2010-05-19T21:56:00.005-06:00

Corey and I were busy today...after we got our morning water changed we decided to get our planting done. We planted nearly 800 little tiny plants. What fun we had...well Corey did...he said he couldnt get enough of it. I laughed so hard. Im sure glad he had fun and Im really glad that we got all our little plants in the ground because they are going to be happy in this nice rain we are having :)
Thanks Corey...you are the greatest helper ever!!!!(oh yes....Corey has a great farming outfit on doesn't he...his laundry is a very small pile)

Time out for fun.....

2010-05-19T11:56:00.003-06:00

We seem to take a lot of time out for fun yes...but well...we also do a lot of work so I guess we try to stay level.....who doesn't need a break every know and then. Our kids are great workers and we love to have fun with them too. We appreciate them a lot and how hard they do work for us. Saturday night around 5 we headed over to Pickle Butte for a little riding. We had a fantastic time...a few crashed..Heather got thrown of her 4-wheeler...she doesn't remember a whole lot about it...but then...this probably would be normal anyway..hehe Heather :)Craig crashed his motorcycle while jumping...got a little shaken up but after a short rest was right back at it. He is getting to be a great rider. Fun was had by all and we are so blessed to have such a great family!!! Oh yes...and JT, a great friend of Heathers came with us too. He is a ton of fun to have around and an amazing worker too. Thanks JT for spending time with our family!!! Here goes the picture overload :).....
Just one small part of Pickle Butte...a motorcycles riders heaven...the kids thought it was great...trails that never end..............

Craig is gettin pretty good and loves to jump!!!!

Amber was riding Clints bike since she fried her motor a while back. She did pretty good considering it is much heavier than hers...she is getting stronger from her surgery everyday...we were glad she was feeling stong enough to come!

We have to end the night with some crazy stuff and we are plenty crazy :)

Stuff all loaded and ready to go! One last jump with everyone!!!

Now back home and we had to have a bonfire!! Fun times on a great summer night!!

Happy Anniversary....

2010-05-19T11:49:00.002-06:00

May 14 was Clint and I sixteenth wedding anniversary. Crazy to say that we got married during the most crazy time of the year for us. There was only one time that we both forgot. We were frantically working in the peony field and Ken (Clint's Dad) came out and said, "Well Happy Anniversary you two!" We both looked at each other and started laughing. We have truly enjoyed these 16 years together. Have had some FUN FUN times. We try to keep life exciting and are completely involved with our kids lives. That is what we do!! There is always something entertaining going on here and if there isn't there soon will be!! We love life and love each other!! We are so blessed!!! Happy Anniversary Clint!!!
So on this day he called and said he was going to Jordan Valley and would Corey like to come along...Corey was elated and could hardly wait for him to pick him up. I was left with very quiet house to myself and was able to clean a bit...it was great!! Sorry the pictures are a little blurry..it was from my phone cause I realized I hadn't brought my camera when we met up. They are still fun!!!

California time....BPA Nationals!!!!

2010-05-14T16:27:00.002-06:00

It is already time for California....thank goodness Amber was able to go. She did very well and rested when she needed to. We had a great time and enjoyed the amazing weather. I am so glad that I got to go and have a great time with her. I am so proud of her and her many accomplishments. She is so well-rounded and enjoys life. I am so happy for her. She competed in two events. She didnt place but I know she did a great job. We really did enjoy ourselves!!!!

Knottsberry Farm......

Going over to the Hilton for competitions....

Walking to Walt Disney Town

Saturday we went to the BEACH......

Hunting for Shells....

Last night.........

Prom 2010

2010-05-14T16:25:00.001-06:00

Amazingly less than a week after surgery here is beautiful Amber going to Prom. We are so thankful she was able to go and have a good time...she did sleep the whole next day though :)...thats OK

Ambers NOT Fun Experience.....

2010-05-14T16:14:00.002-06:00

Amber has been having some troubles and her blood count has been dropping....She was so pale a couple Friday nights ago and had no energy I decided to take her to the ER. Luckily, with the strong encouragement from Bishop Kraupp:), she reluctantly went in. When we got there the ER doctors knew immediately she needed blood. Her levels were at a 5 and she should be at 14-15. She had lost 2/3 of her blood. So they gave her 3 units of blood and sent her to downtown St lukes to the Pediatrics. Troy and Richard came and gave her a blessing which really helped!!! Clint was in Nevada, of course!! She was real brave throughout this whole ordeal. She was put through many test all day Saturday. Sunday she felt much better and was getting back to her old self. Monday she had surgery which was successful but found more that needed to be fixed which will require a couple more surgeries later. We are thankful for all the wonderful doctors that helped her...St Lukes in the greatest. We are also thankful for all of Ambers great friends and family that supported and prayed for her the whole time.....she is a very special girl to us and she has some amazing friends...thanks everyone!!!!!

Are we there???

2010-05-14T16:12:00.001-06:00

Just love this picture so had to through it in...he is such a patient boy with all the running around I do and dragging him around.

Easter 2010

2010-05-14T16:11:00.000-06:00

Pine Wood Derby 2010

2010-05-14T16:09:00.001-06:00

Pine wood Derby time already!!!! Corey made a car this year too and raced it...he won everyone even Craig after it was over. He was happy. Craig got 2nd place and had a great time!!!

Shot time.....

2010-05-14T16:06:00.003-06:00

So there was a health fair that was giving free shots so we took a break from our morning weeding one Saturday to take Craig and Corey. Craig was so great because he wasnt due for any shots but they said there was one he could get or wait till June and get it....after Corey got nervous he told the nurses he thought he should get the shot to help Corey be brave. the nurses couldnt believe Craig and thought he was an amazing brother and I would totally have to agree!!!!

Farm Work Begins!!!!

2010-05-14T16:05:00.000-06:00

Spring Break fun....

2010-05-14T16:01:00.002-06:00

Spring Break was interesting this year...Amber went to California, Clint and I went to Oregon, and Heather was amazing enough to stay home with Corey and Craig spent the whole week at Christoffersons. We were definitely spread different ways but had a fabulous time.

Amber and Libby's Spring Break Adventure

2010-03-30T21:16:00.002-06:00

Over spring break, Libby and I, this is Amber :), went on a trip with Libby's grandma. We flew to Reno on Saturday. Libby's grandma lives in Reno. She picked us up from the airport and we drove to San Francisco. Actually, to Vallejo which is pretty close to San Francisco. We rode the ferry from Vallejo to San Francisco. We stayed there for three days. We went to Alcatraz, Chinatown, and Pier 39 and had tons of fun! Then we drove back to Reno and stayed there for three more days before flying home on Friday. We saw lots of cool things and made memories that will last forever!! It was loads of fun. We took lots of pictures to show all the fun we had!!! :)

2010-03-18T17:01:00.001-06:00

This is an amazing video!!!
(make sure your scroll to the bottom and turn off my music first)

Motorcyle accident....

2010-03-18T08:48:00.004-06:00

RILEY

COBEY

CRAIG

Craig was riding this weekend with his friends, Christoffersen's, having a great time like they always do. They were riding out at Graveyard point. Some older boys came and started racing everywhere instead of following along. The younger boys were just leaving to go to a different track to get out of there way(good choice boys:)!!) As they were leaving Craig and one of the older riders collided in a sideways(T-Bone) crash. Craig got the brunt of it of course but was a really great sport. In fact he pleaded with Jodie not to call me because he didn't want to come home, of course. He has been hobbling around,won't take crutches to school, he is not a boy that likes attention from anyone!! He is doing fine and luckily for motorcycle boots!! the buckle on the boot broke even. He would have broke it for sure if he hadn't had those boots on. He is raring to get back out there and ride...begging to go this weekend but I think he will take at least one weekend off...boys boys boys...I love it!!!!

California Bound!!!!

2010-03-18T08:37:00.002-06:00

Congratulations to Amber for making it to Nationals in two events for Business Professional of Amberica (BPA). Last weekend she spend 3 days in Boise competing and placed to go to nationals. The first week of May she will be heading to Aneheim California. We are very proud of her!!!!

A Big Day

2010-03-18T08:32:00.003-06:00

Today..being March 2, actually, yes I am a bit behind, Amber and Craig had some great accomplishments. Amber was inducted into the National Honor Society and Craig received his Webelos Badge. We are very proud of our kids. They always accomplish great things and do the best they can in all they do. What great examples are they to me. I am so lucky that I get to be their Mom :)

Bedtime...

2010-03-18T08:31:00.002-06:00

I walked in the room just before dinner and this is what I found...I think somedays we just need naps no matter how grown up we think we are....

Dinner Time!!!!

2010-03-18T08:27:00.000-06:00

Giveaway

2010-02-26T10:57:00.001-07:00

Head over to www.cheatdaycafe.blogspot.com for a fun giveaway to help yo uget more orgaized...such a fun website....check it out!!!!

BRACES OFF!!!!

2010-02-18T16:57:00.001-07:00

One more picture with Braces for Heather....

Today was the big day for Heather...it has only been a year and 2 months so that is pretty good. Dr. Smith of Willamette Dental is one of the greatest..we think he ROCKS!!!!

Presidents day fun....

2010-02-18T16:52:00.002-07:00

Monday Carol and Scott came over and we went riding. It was really fun and we had a great time with them. We are so thankful to have such a great place to ride our four wheelers and motorcycles....

Craig has been getting pretty gutsy and pretty good at riding...sorry this is fuzzy..my auto focus was turned off...but I just couldnt delete this great jump!!!

Thanks Scott adn Carol for coming over!!! It was great to hang out with you!!! We hope you come back over SOON!!!!

Happy Valentines Day!!!

2010-02-18T16:50:00.002-07:00

This will probably be the last year Craig has a Valentines Party...he is growing up and I think he is fine with that :)

NAPTIME.......

2010-02-09T23:02:00.001-07:00

SUPERBOWL!!!!!!!!!

2010-02-09T22:58:00.002-07:00

I didnt take very many pictures but we had a great time watching the game. We had tons of food (way more than we needed) and great friends over to watch the game with. Some of us are more into the game than others but we really love getting together and just having fun.

Cool Kids....

2010-02-09T22:56:00.003-07:00

Dancing to really loud music is a very common occurance in our car. Corey is one of the greatest dancers thanks to his sisters...he knows all the cool moves!!! Crazy kids but ohhhh so much fun!!! Couldnt live without them:)

Craigs Scouting

2010-02-09T22:52:00.001-07:00

Last week was Craig Blue & Gold Banquet pack meeting. He got a lot of awards and should have gotten his Weeblos badge but they didnt have it so next pack meeting. Craig is doing a GREAT job with scouts and with everything that he is doing. He really excells in things. He wants to get all the badges he can in scouts. We do a lot of things during family home evening so that is pretty cool...I think his favorite thing to do is give the lessons...he is a great kid. We are proud of you Craig!!!!

Erics basketball games...

2010-02-09T22:49:00.002-07:00

We went to a few of Erics basketball games since they were pretty close to our house. The kids had a great time and we were glad to see him play. He had some great shots and plays in the games we saw... GOOD JOB ERIC!!!!
This is the first game in Caldwell....

This is the game at Vallivue...

Thanks Eric for inviting us and we hope we can see you play again soon!!!

BUBBLE WRAP again.....

2010-02-09T22:46:00.002-07:00

Clint brought TONS of bubble wrap home from work and of course the kids always have a great time with it....I really am not sure why we buy them things....they are happy as can be with this!!!!

Beatles Rockband Time...

2010-02-09T22:42:00.002-07:00

Cami and Brian came over to hang out with us and play Wii games. It was so much fun..they are so crazy and we had a really great time!! Thanks Cami and Brian for coming over...you need to schedule some ROMRIELL time again SOON!!!!!

Happy New Year 2010!!!!!

2010-01-12T14:38:00.004-07:00

Happy New Year to Everyone!!! We hope that you all have a great year. We are excited for this year and have started off with a blast...well it was raining new years eve so didnt do fireworks this year...but we wanted to...we have a great New Years together and were glad to have Heather back...yes she is driving now and doing a great job:). As I said before we had a great time hanging out with the kids and they seem to enjoy hanging out with us...Amber Heather and Clint played guitar hero, rock band and rock band beetles all night. It was fun to watch them. Don't ask me why I didnt take any pictures...we watched the new year come in and then hung out for an hour or so then went to bed. It really was a fun time. We are so blessed to have each other. This is going to be a great year!!!!

Snowsuit??

2010-01-12T14:33:00.002-07:00

We did have a bit of snow during the holidays so we had to break out the snow clothes...well apparently Corey had grown this year....

He did wear clothes under it and made it work but we all got a real laugh out of him..he keeps up laughing...it was a great Christmas break and we loved every minute of having the kids home from school. I am always just as sad as the kids when they have to go back to school...I LOVE having them home!!!!!
We were busy all the time though and on the go...Corey enjoyed every second though...he loves his sisters and brothers!!!

Emmett fun....

2010-01-12T14:29:00.002-07:00

So....guess what!!! Heather took drivers training over the Chistmas break!!! Yes she has her drivers permit now. She spent all of her Christmas break over in Emmett. We missed her very much and had to visit her....

So while we were there Craig stayed over a few days too to play with cousins. They built a snow fort and Grandpa pulled them on a car hood for a sled....fun memories made by all of them....what great times we have in Emmett!!!!

More Airsoft

2010-01-12T14:25:00.002-07:00

Day after Christmas Andrew and Katie Bell came over for a visit(Nina too), some of our most favorite people!!! Of course Andrew had to join in on the airsoft fun so we had to get pictures...the video is great too....fun times!!!!
Thanks Andrew and Katie and Nina for being great neighbors and friends!!!!

Christmas.....

2010-01-12T14:15:00.002-07:00

So...Craig and Corey were our early risers but they all were up by 5 so we were finished with Christmas by 5:30 and had the rest of the day to play and have a great time and that is what we did. It was a terrific Christmas as usual...We are so thankful for this time of year to reflect on our Savior and the love he has for us. We are so blessed to have the Gospel in out lives. We are so thankful to have a forever family and we are so thankful that Heavenly Father has entrusted us with our beautiful amazing children. We so enjoy being aroung them...even though we have teenagers we have so much fun with them and even though they tell us we are old and goofy they spend time with us and have a good time with us...we are so thankful for their willingness to hang out with us and have these fun times. We really do have the greatest family and this has been a great year!!!

I did not take a lot of pictures during Christmas...we got a new camcorder and took lots of video though....we had agreat christmas even though there are not lots of pictures :)

We all got Airsoft guns so we had a few wars during the day...thankfully the weather was not that bad....Robert and Kristina even came up and joined in on th fun...it was great exercise too...I DID take tons of pictures here....
I am thinking this is a great Christmas or New Years Card...what do you think??

Later in the afternoon we had visitors....

All in all it was an amazing Christmas...we had lots of family around and we were thankful for that....

Christmas Eve!!

2010-01-12T14:12:00.005-07:00

We have a tradition of getting pajamas every year for Christmas...in fact last year we tried to switch it up a little and get a fun game and the kids didnt let up get away with it!! Pajamas it is!! Well this year we thought it would be funny to get Snuggies for everyone....everytime the comercial for them come on the kids laugh and joke about it so that is what we did...it was very fun and they actually like them!!

After the kids went to bed..........

Amber crafting....watch out!!!

2010-01-12T14:12:00.001-07:00

Happy Birthday Corey

2010-01-12T14:07:00.003-07:00

Next we had Corey's Birthday. It is hard to believe that he is 4. It seems like just yesterday we spent he holidays in the hospital and cherishing every moment we had with him. Now he is a wild 4 year old and growing up way too fast. We are so lucky to have Corey be a part of our family and he definitely adds a lot of spice!!! We never are without something to do(or clean up) He is our wild card and we love him sooo much!!!

Putting up the tree

2010-01-12T14:06:00.000-07:00

Brinkerhoff Christmas Party

2010-01-12T13:53:00.003-07:00

Early in December we had a GREAT christmas party with the Brinkerhoff side of the family. It was so much fun as usual and we are soooo thankful for such a great family with such great examples. There are a lot of us now and it is so much fun to get together but can get way crazy...we wouldn't have it any other way though!! It was so fun to start out the wonderful holidays with them :)Oh yes and thank you Mary so much for the pictures..you are as usual a lifesaver on my procrastination!!!!

Lost December!!!

2010-01-12T13:52:00.001-07:00

Oh my!!! Obviously keeping up my blog is not a new years resolution thank goodness!! My kids keep complaining about me not posting for forever!! So here comes a ton of posts!!!! I promise I will do better!!! I HATE being Behind!!!!

2009 Winter Formal Junior Attendant

2009-12-04T09:38:00.004-07:00

Amber was chosen as the Junior Attendant for her class this year. We are so proud of her and all her accomplishments. She is such a great example to all her peers. She works hard in all that she does and takes great pride in the things she accomplishes. We know she is going to be very successful in her life. Amber we are so thankful for you and we are so lucky you are part of our family. You are so beautiful in every way!!!!

Who needs a Hot tub!!!!

2009-12-04T09:35:00.001-07:00

Corey decided to do some finger painting. His hands were a mess so I put him up to the sink to wash his hands. When I turned around to see him this is how I found him:).....never a dull moment around here!!!!!Wouldn't have it any other way!!

2009-11-30T08:18:00.002-07:00

NEW MOON

2009-11-20T22:07:00.004-07:00

Amber, Jordan, Heather, Mary, Troy, Carol, and I all decided to get midnight tickets to New Moon. It was soo much fun and was a good movie!! It was fun to all be together. Amber made shirts for us the day before. They turned out amazing...we were definitely COOL!!! We all all tired today which is Friday but hey!!! It was worth it!!! :)

Now we can hardly wait for the next one.....

Coreys trip to the Dentist

2009-11-20T21:52:00.003-07:00

Thursday Corey went to the dentist for the first time. I was really nervous at how he would do but I was very pleased with him. He was really cute. They let him check out all the equipment before they worked on him and I wasn't sure he was going to let them work on him because he loved playing with it all. He did amazing and was cavity free..can't do better than that!!!! Oh yes and Craig was in the chair next to him but he is a pro and did well too..thanks for being a great example Craig!!

Ambers week to cook

2009-11-20T21:50:00.002-07:00

Amber is cooking this week and we all have to say it has been very GOOD!! She picked some new recipies, made the grocery list, has cooked the meals and even done most of the clean up. It has been really fun and she has done some great recipies. We cant wait for Heathers week...NEXT WEEK :)

Picture Time...

2009-11-20T21:43:00.002-07:00

We finally went out and took some great pictures. I am so thankful for my kids and how amazing they are. I can't believe how fast they are growing and what great examples they are to me. I am so lucky to be able to be their mother. As you can see, Corey was not real excited about this picture deal...he was asleep when we got to where we were taking picures. The girls were very patient and finally got him to smile a little. You can really see his attitude in a lot of these shots. I am pleased with how they all turned out...PHEW!!!!

AND THE WINNER IS.......

Fun Times with Thompsons!!!!

2009-11-20T21:38:00.002-07:00

A couple of Saturdays ago the Thompsons surprised us and came and spent the day with us!!! What a fun and fabulous day we had. I wish we could do this every saturday..Thanks guys for coming over!!!You made our day!!!

Power Outage...great family times!!!

2009-10-27T10:01:00.006-06:00

It has been a while since we had a power outage like this. The other day we had one for a few hours but it wasn't dark before the power came on. Last night when we returned from Craig football practice it was out-that was 7. I think it went out around 6ish. It really was a great evening though. We had a blast. We got all our candles going, flashlights, and propane lights. We(well Clint did) cooked dinner on our propane stove outside. He heated up fried rice from yesterdays dinner...water for hot chocolate, and then he made popcorn in our twirly pop. It was great!!! Craig had homework to do so we all read from his social studies book about Columbus. We laughed and had a great time. Amber even roasted marshmellows from the candles. Clint suggested we do this every night for the next month...but I dont think anyone jumped on that. Our Family Home Evening lesson was about BEING PREPARED. What a great night!!! The power came back on somewhere between 1 and 2 in the morning. It was a fun evening together and reminded us how fun it is with just the family and not the TV or internet to keep us distracted.

With the flash it doesnt even appear to be dark but it was..that is why Amber took the pictures above to show the dark...the rest are with the flash pretty much...

Pictures.....

2009-10-27T09:53:00.002-06:00

Sunday was our Primary Program and it was amazing!!! Our primary President, Jenny Mattravers had a brilliant idea (she is wonderful). The kids did their parts together as family groups. This years theme was families are forever. I was terrific. Corey and Craig did their parts so well. Craig was so great with Corey. He had his arm around him the whole time. It was so cute. He helped Corey say his part and Corey actually said it. Craig was nervous about Corey not doing it. It was such a great moment. We are proud of the boys. After church we decided to take a few pictures since they were dressed up. Corey unfortunately had a fever after church and wasnt feeling well...we did our best and I thought I would post a few because I thought they were cute and kinda funny...we will try again another day...

In the end this I thought was the best one...although there is something on Craigs nose...I dont know if it came from his tree climbing adventure or what..I am sure I could get it off with a touch up but I am not sure how...anyway they are great kids and I love them so much...I cant imagine my life without them...every one of them is AMAZING!!!!

Halloween Church Party

2009-10-27T09:49:00.003-06:00

Saturday night was our church halloween party and we had tons of fun. We had dinner...chili, hot dogs, hot chocolate. Lots of great friends to visit with. then we did trunk or treat. It was a fun party and we are glad we went. A few of Richards kids were spending the weekend with us so they went with us. After the party we went home and they are did our tradition of 'candy bartering'. It was a blast..took longer to do all the trading than to actually get the candy. FUN TIMES!!!!

Another Football Game....

2009-10-27T09:46:00.002-06:00

Here is another football game of Craigs. He has one more game this coming Wednesday night. It is the Tournaments. His team has not lost a game yet and they also havent been scored on. Theya re the only team in the league with this record so we are really excited. Hopefully they will do the same Wednesday and we will be the champs. He has had a tremendous year playing!!! Great couches!!!!