The Plewe Crew

Kennedy's Blessing

2011-12-06T09:54:00.000-08:00

Today was a very special day filled with friends and family. Troy blessed Kennedy in sacrament meeting in our ward and we had a wonderful luncheon at our home. We were overwhelmed by the love and support our family was shown and enjoyed celebrating with the families that came. Our hearts were filled and what a great time of year to have felt that!

This is how we felt after a fun weekend with cousins and shopping, building forts, cooking, cleaning, and game playing! Thanks Tim & Kelly & Della for coming :-)

End of School 2011

2011-11-17T12:30:00.000-08:00

The end of school is always a busy time. There are dance recitals, concerts, plays, academic honor assemblies and our traditional trip to a local resort to celebrate!

This is Haleigh's big Landmark Project

Sadie's end of year dance recital with her bff Sutton.

Sadie's Let's Play Music Recital

Camden's was the narrator for his 4th grade play.

Haleigh's school orchestra concert.

Sadie's 1st grade water day.

Taylor's golden scholar ceremony for straight A's all year.

Poor Camden and Haleigh had to miss their Academic Night for Baseball and Softball playoffs.

So to celebrate our crazy end of year activities we celebrated at our traditional getaway at the Arizona Grand with 45 of our favorite families :-)

I was so glad I wasn't the only pregnate lady there!!

Thanks Sarah :-)

Summer 2001

2011-09-05T09:54:00.000-07:00

We started our summer travels over the 4th of July in California. We stopped in San Juan Capistrano and visited with the Jacobsen's and the Bruschke's for a day before we headed to San Diego. Taylor was thrilled when Tyson actually let him drive his Lamborghini....yes that is for real. Taylor certainly sent pictures to all of his friends! After a fun weekend at the beach (despite the ac going out in our van) we drove home through the largest dust storm ever documented in Arizona - now nick named "The Haboob"???

After San Diego we got ready and left for the next 3 weeks to be spent in Utah and Idaho. Troy drove the van up with Taylor, Haleigh and her friend Allison. They stopped in Vegas and rode a roller coaster, and made another stop at the Valley of Fire and bought fireworks. Sadie, Camden and I took a flight later that day and met them in Orem. It was a perfect compromise!

While in Utah we were able to visit lots of family, attend the Plewe extended family reunion river raft the Provo River, hang out with some goats at Della's neighbors house, visit the Nickle Nickle, go to the Scera Pool, 7 -peaks, spend time with cousins, see lots of movies and enjoy the beautiful weather. After a week of fun Haleigh went home with Troy, Sadie stayed with her cousins and the boys and I took off for a few relaxing days in Idaho with the Hamiltons. Taylor begged to stop at another fireworks stand and bought some highly illegal M-80's along the way and of course the boys were thrilled.

Yes he really did drive it!

We have discovered Sadie is fearless- she wanted to ride all the "scary" rides at Mission Beach!

The now famous "Haboob" We drove right through this on our way home!

Start of Summer 2011 - All Stars and High School Baseball

2011-08-29T09:51:00.000-07:00

Our summer started off with a lot of baseball and softball! Taylor played baseball with Williamsfield High School. He played center field and pitched. Both Haleigh and Camden were selected to their All Star Teams. It kept us really busy with practices across town from each other, everyday, in the heat of summer. Somehow we survived and both had a great time playing. Haleigh played 3rd base. Her team lost in pool play to Queen Creek. Camden pitched, caught and played 2nd. His team made it to the championship game against Desert Ridge and lost. We were disappointed but he had a fun time and played with great friends and families. We'll get DR next year!

Haleigh's 12th Birthday

2011-06-08T07:10:00.000-07:00

Haleigh's 12th B-day was a fun affair. It seemed to be celebrated over an entire week due to the fact she was at Science Camp for her actual birthday!

The Sunday before her birthday some of the Young Women from our ward came and sang to her and brought her the cutest cupcakes ever! Sister Vider is an amazingly talented lady who knows how to make everyone feel special and loved!!! Then before she left for camp she put this candy bar poster on our front door - so fun!

At camp we sent up some treats and her teacher Ms. Misino and Amanda made sure the whole 6th grade sang Happy Birthday to her. She was sufficiently embarrassed - mission accomplished!!!

Upon returning from Science Camp our family squeezed in presents and singing between softball and baseball games every night!!! She begged and received a new bat bag and was happy.

The in true Haleigh style she also planned her own party, made and mailed her invites, decorated the pool area for way too long and decorated her own cupcakes the following Saturday. (although I will take credit for the softball idea!) I love her enthusiasm and appreciate the attention to detail she puts into everything she does! Happy Birthday Haleigh!!!!

Camden Turns 10!

2011-05-17T11:48:00.000-07:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY CAMDEN!!!

Boy do I love this kid! He chose a small celebration for his birthday so he could divert funds to his i touch fund! He invited his closest friends to join us for lunch and a movie. It was a fun time celebrating this fun boy whose smile lights up the room (when you can get him to smile that is ha ha). I am so grateful for his fun, sarcastic, playful personality that add so much to our crazy family! There is nothing we enjoy more than watching him set his mind to something and go at it with gusto! From an AR goal, to perfecting his jammer half court shot - his determination is amazing. I truly consider it a privilege and blessing to be this boy's Mom!

Hawaii - The Big Island

2011-04-25T15:54:00.000-07:00

Taylor's 14th Birthday & Room Makeover

2011-04-22T09:21:00.000-07:00

Taylor turned 14 - WOW. I am such a good mother I have not ONE picture to show for it. He is such a good kid he didn't even notice. We celebrated throughout the week and took him and some friends our of school to IN n Out on his birthday. A few days later we made it to Red Robin with the family and his big present was having his best friend (since they were 2 - they will tell you) come down for the weekend and he couldn't have been happier. We gave them money to eat out, go to the movies and make frequent Circle K runs.

For his big present we decided the spare room - which still needed to be a spare room - could have a little character for him as well.

Here is what we ended up with! It still needs curtains and some paint, but at least it feels like his space and he likes it so it must have been worth the pottery barn prices right cough cough......heart attack Troy don't look at the Amex bill!

Sharing Meaningful Moments

2011-03-03T14:24:00.000-08:00

Recently a neighbor, and inactive member of our ward suffered a significant loss. The husband and father of four children took his life. It was a very traumatic event for our kids as the police were on our street for the good part of a day and when they found out what happened they asked a lot of questions and were confused and upset not understanding what would cause someone to make that choice. That Sunday the Primary children were asked to write Valentines to the family that were going to experience a holiday their father always made special for them - without him.

This is what Haleigh wrote. I am grateful for my Bishop's wife that was touched enough about what Haleigh wrote that she wanted to share it with Troy and I.

These are the moments you know our children really are gaining their own testimonies of the Heavenly Fathers Plan for each of us.

Sadie and Sutton: BFF's

2011-02-14T09:30:00.000-08:00

Sadie has a good friend. They met in Kindergarten and never looked back. I am always grateful for "kindred spirits" especially with my children and when the families get along great. These girls love to be with each other. They never fight and can party or veg without any drama and it always works out to be fine. I often share lunch with the girls at school and am constantly touched when Sutton always scoots over to make room for Sadie and waves her over. I am so grateful for good, kind friends! They are harder to come by then you think!

It takes a Village - Happy Valentines Day!

2011-02-14T09:19:00.000-08:00

I am so grateful there are wonderful people like the Miltuns and my own daughter Haleigh with creative bones in their body!!! Haleigh loves anything with scissors, glue, paper and designing. I cannot usually help make her creations come alive - but thankfully our good friend Mark & Carlee Miltun can and did!!! It isn't finished yet - but here is Haleigh's Cathedral of Annunciation in Red Square. It is part of her 600 point Landmark project!!

Then there is my sweet Haleigh who is always up for helping Sadie do anything for school. Here they are with Sadie's puppy Valentine mailbox. Haleigh amazes me with her helpfulness - now if we can work on the attitude! Love that girl! (P.S. ignore the terrible picture in my kitchen. I can never get the lighting right in there so lucky I am taking a photography class in two weeks that will teach me to use my camera)

Christmas Morning

2011-01-30T11:01:00.000-08:00

MERRY CHRISTMAS

We spent Christmas morning with my Mom and sister at their house. It was a fun morning opening presents and sharing breakfast with my brother Sam and his kids.

Taylor and Camden both got a special edition Stars & Stripes Angels Hat

Barbie barbie barbie. It's fun shopping for a little girl!

Haleigh really wanted a softball helmet. Her brother got it for her!

I just enjoyed this expression. Doesn't it sum up Christmas Morning?

Camden read our "note". Our present to the kids this year is a Hawaiian Adventure!

BYU Basketball Game!

2011-01-30T07:58:00.000-08:00

We went to a BYU Basketball game while we were in Utah for the holidays. We had a blast watching the Jimmer Show LOL! We even watched him dunk it which is pretty rare! We were also grateful for Haleigh and Della entertaining the little ones for those of us trying to watch the game! Next time minimum age requirement will be put into effect ha ha! That and a piece of advice: If you have 5 kids age 6 and under providing foam claws and foam fingers - not a good idea...........

And no there will be no pictures of me as usual unless my sis in law will ever send me her pictures - hint hint Kelly :-)

The funniest part of the non basketball portion of the night was when Haleigh was texting non stop so Uncle Tim kept texting her anonymously and kept asking her questions about the "boyfriend" and personal things we kept feeding him. It was hilarious!!!

Tim, Kelly, Caden & Clayton. Clayton actually watched the game!

Troy, Camden, Tyler, Austin (rare moment of focus for Austin ha ha) and Taylor.

Go BYU!

The others!!!

Holiday Family Fun!!

2011-01-11T07:58:00.000-08:00

We had a great time over the holidays visiting with our families. We played games, ate good food, watched movies, played the wii, watched football and basketball, shopped, visited Santa, played at Kangaroo Zoo, made midnight diet coke runs in the fog, created Rootbeer Reindeers, gingerbread houses and decorated christmas trees to take to the retirement home where the kids sang and Haleigh played the violin.

We were blessed to be able to spend so much time with both the Lassiter and Plewe families. .

We got REALLY tired of washing cups thus the plastic cups took over a whole counter!

Twister and Orange Sticks memory of Jay Dog!

Trying out the camera on the flip.....not so great! Just video in the future I think!

Skiing at Sundance

2011-01-07T10:51:00.000-08:00

Our cute cousins Sophie and Max have season passes to Sundance so we try to sneak in a ski day with them when we are in Utah. It snowed a TON the day before we got to Utah! How perfect was that. The kids enjoyed a fun day in great conditions! Mom stayed around waiting at the bottom of the hill with hot chocolate, hand warmers and encouragement. I am always surprised I don't feel the need to ski. I was a major skiing growing up. My family had the amazing opportunity to ski across Europe while living in Germany for a couple of years. We continued skiing when we came back as teenagers and I loved going fast and hard. These days I am content taking pictures, refilling tanks with food and warm drinks and reading a good book -- what has happened to me??? When all the kids are comfortable skiing on their own I am sure I will ski again right? We shall see!

Here is my snow bunny! She took a ski class and had a great time! Isn't she cute! I was so proud of her. She didn't complain once the whole day!

Haleigh was hard to capture on film as she continually raced down the hill! She really wanted to snow board. I think this will be her last time on skis....

Here are the boys. Camden got a little concerned at one point when his older brother ditched him....thanks Taylor :-) but he managed to find his way down the hill. It was a fun day!

CrAzY hAiR DaY --October 2010

2010-12-04T06:00:00.000-08:00

In the past my kids have hit me up for a pony tail on one side and a braid on the other?.... This year 6 cans of different color hairspray was on the agenda. That and the girls wanted the Marge Simpson look! I have to say I was proud of my ability to deliver! Thank you Walmart (which I detest) for the clearance halloween spray paint for a buck a can! Here are my little ones. Camden cracked me up the most when he came home with clean hair. After recess he was sweating in color so he went in the bathroom and washed it out of his hair!

Haleigh and Amanda!

Sadie and Sutton! Matching hair was totally NOT planned!

Sadie's Dance Recital

2010-12-02T06:00:00.000-08:00

Sadie has been taking a cute little dance class this year. She loves to go dance and sing with her sweet friend Sutton.

Tonight was her "mini" recital. It was so fun to see her twirling around and mouthing the words to the songs they were dancing to!

It was freezing out there in fact it was the coldest night of the year-so far 25 degrees! We ran home and made hot chocolate and homemade pizookies. They were yummy! Couldn't have had a more perfect family night activity.

Strike a pose!

Man I love this girl!

Thanksgiving 2010

2010-11-30T20:12:00.000-08:00

Thanksgiving Day we flew to California to share Thanksgiving dinner with Troy's brother's family. The kids had a blast with the huge buffet at The Orange County Mining Company. I am not sure they had any M & M's or Gummie Bears left at the ice cream bar when our kids were through with it! The adults were thrilled with the vast array of options. I think Taylor won the eat as fast and as much as you can award! The joy of a growing 13 year old's appetite.

The next day the boys woke up early and got some black friday shopping in while Kelly and I slept it! Lucky us! Then later that day we got some shopping in too. We enjoyed a leisurely afternoon of shopping and a yummy Thai lunch.

The next day we spent some time making bread. Here are Kelly's first official loaves. She is officially a bread maker now....aren't they pretty!!!

Halloween 2010

2010-11-02T10:59:00.000-07:00

I am not a pumpkin carver - never have been. It's messy, it's sticky, it's messy. Have I said it's messy? BUT the kids L O V E it? Especially Haleigh. She is the designer in the family. She carefully draws out what she wants and I just dare any of you to try and change anything!

We enjoyed the school parties, parades, the ward party and on Halloween we had a neighborhood gathering in the nearby cul de sac. It was a fun time getting to know the families and the kids socializing with kiddos.

I just thought the expressions on Camden's and Sadie's faces had to be included. They had fun in case you couldn't tell! I think my second favorite part of this top picture is Sadie's fabulous hair creation. Isn't she great? Love her!

Yep thats the pumpkin goo I was mentioning! YUCK!

Sadie and her very bestest friend Sutton. Whenever the kids ask where Sadie is when she is not home - we always answer "she is with her other family"-- she spends as much time with them as with her own!!!

She is lucky to have such a sweet friend and parents that put up with her!

Camden and his friend Holden at the church Fall Festival and Trunk or Treat!

Troy always comes up with a great costume idea! Now to work on the camera smile....

Haleigh's besties Allison, Amanda, Haleigh, Kyle & Kyle's cousin (I think?)

at the ward party.

Taylor, Travis and Mitchell at the ward party.

Fall Break 2010

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

Our trip to Utah was full of fun, family and friends. It started out with a BYU football game. We went into the game with low expectations but were pleasantly surprised to watch them WIN! Go BYU! The kids enjoyed lunch at the Cougar Eat with their cousins before the game. It is always fun to wander the Wilk and the bookstore. We even found fun shirts for 5 bucks. Love it!

Troy and his mom took the kids (forced is probably the more accurate word) on a fun hike in Pleasant Grove. The ironic part is that the kids had to be DRAGGED home for dinner. They didn't want to go and then didn't want to leave! Love them!

We also spent a fun day in Park City with more cousins. Although more than the cost of Disneyland (cough cough gag) we all had a blast!

Finally we all just enjoyed dinners with family, making cards, grandma costume sewing parties, and enjoying the beautiful fall weather. Thank you Utah for actually have the four season!

Love at Home? Maybe!

2010-10-08T11:38:00.000-07:00

After listening to conference this past weekend I decided to put up a "Gratitude Poster" up on the wall of the kitchen. I have tried to encourage the kids to consider something they are grateful for each day and write it on the poster with their name below. Of course some are silly - some are thoughtful - but more important than what they write about is the thought process behind it right? Just 3 days after this "experiment" I woke up to this sitting on the kitchen table. I am almost crying as I type this. These are the moments that give up hope as a parent right? I love conference and the renewed energy it gives us to be BETTER, to REMEMBER what is important and to LOVE LOVE LOVE each other. Today I am grateful for my amazingly wonderful, talented, kind, frustrating, energetic, children. What would I do without them? (Thats a scary question on many levels :-)

He's a Bear Through and Through!

2010-09-24T15:31:00.000-07:00

Camden put in a lot of work this past month and earned his BEAR award in Cub Scouts. I can't believe how old he is getting! Our Scoutmaster is so fun with the boys. They have a great time with him and his cute wife each month. When Camden got his WOLF award he had to get it out of a whip cream pie. For his BEAR he had to catch 3 gummie bears in his mouth. If you look close you can see the green one at the top of the picture flying through the air! Great job Camden! For fun I posted him with his whip cream pie last year!

It's right at the top of the picture hanging on the wall!

Before and

After!

Sadie: A Whole New Soccer Player!

2010-09-19T20:42:00.000-07:00

It is amazing what a difference a year can make! Sadie has become quite the soccer player. She is one of the older kids, and it really makes a difference! You can tell how much more focused the older kids are, how much more large motor skills they have, and especially ball control. After two games Sadie's goal count is 11~ nope that is not a typo! The best part is when talking to her Grandma on the phone she told her, "Guess what Grandma - I scored 2 goals today!" I love that she doesn't even pay attention to the score. She still tells us she wants to rest after each quarter because her "legs are tired" but I can't blame her - it was 109 on Saturday, poor kids! I can't wait until it cools off for the kids and the fans!

Sadie's breakaway resulted in her 2nd goal of the day!

Sadie threw the ball in perfect for an assist! I love that I got the ball in the air! My camera was worth every penny I tell you! Thanks Mom!

Here Sadie was playing some mean defense. Luckily this game there were no kids in tears ! Last week one cute little kiddo stormed off the field crying telling his parents - "They keep taking the ball away from me!!!" I love U6 soccer games. If they aren't crying they are running off the field for their own water breaks whenever they get hot or you have to talk them into coming back in after their "rest". Too funny!

Sadie Turns 6!!!

2010-09-07T13:22:00.000-07:00

I cannot believe my baby has turned SIX years old. My friend took this beautiful picture of my sweet Sadie below. Thanks Amy! Why do they have to grow up?

All Sadie wanted for her birthday was a PEDICURE?

Sadie invited her best friend Sutton to enjoy the fun! Haleigh was so sweet - she came too to help pick colors and designs!

Sadie came home from school on her birthday with a bounce U Certificate given to her from the Principal. Each kiddo gets one at the school. Now that is a great marketing strategy. Guess where Sadie decided to go for her party??? Yep you guessed it - Bounce U. It actually ended up being a perfect decision since we discovered the date we picked for her party was the weekend Troy was on a golf trip with his brothers. Sadie had a great time with 15 of her friends and siblings. Do you see the sweat? These kids played hard!

Happy Birthday Sadie! We couldn't imagine our lives without your sweet spirit in our family. We love you so much!

Snippet of Summer 2010

2010-08-27T14:32:00.000-07:00

Although it felt like Summer was all about baseball this year - we did manage to squeeze in a few other activities and some quick trips too. We went to California for the 4th of July and we went to Utah the last week of July. Taylor also got to spend some time in Idaho with our friends the Hamiltons. The boys both got to do the Williamsfield baseball and basketball camps and Haleigh enjoyed her 3rd year of Musical Theater Workshop. Locally we were lucky to be able to hit the lake a few times, and spend a lot of time swimming in our own and may others pools! It was a full fun summer for the Plewe's.

Haleigh on stage dancing away!

Camden at basketball camp with a few of his longtime team members!

Funny how freezing weather over the 4th of July still found the kids at the beach swimming in the ocean! Sadie loves to dig up the sand crabs wherever we go!

Still freezing - Haleigh couldn't get enough boogy boarding in. Her and Lauren loved being out there in the waves. I just loved to watch them while reading my book wrapped in a towel trying to keep my teeth from chattering. It was really that cold!

I just loved the expressions on Taylor and Camden's faces in this picture. They think they are so funny. And they are most of the time!

Taylor always enjoys his visits with the Hamiltons in Idaho. I think his 4 day trip turned into a week. I guess after 5 boys you really don't notice a 6th right Kristi :-) I love that he is able to stay close with his good friend Tanner. How I wish we could see them more!

On Sunday over the 4th we tried to walk around the grounds of the Newport Beach Temple. It was closed! That was weird so we just took some pictures instead. Not quite as exciting for the kids - I'll admit, but it was still nice to see it. We haven't been back since the dedication.

Our friend Tyson moved to San Juan and his new house has a great pool. The kids all had fun swimming together. Again - even when it was freezing. At least the jacuzzi was heated!

Before the Lymans moved to China we got to spend a day at the Lake with them. The kids always have a great time tubing, wake boarding and skiing. We were excited to be able to spend some time with them before they headed off on another one of their international adventures. Sadie and Maddy ended up being perfect tubing partners! Slow and steady :-)

Hard Work Pays Off

2010-08-21T16:50:00.000-07:00

Nice blurry picture! Taylor has always been very diligent about his schoolwork. His hard work has been reflected in his ability to pull straight A's for many years. Now in Jr High, he was honored by being inducted into the National Junior Honor Society. Congratulation Taylor. There were many of his close friends there sharing the evening with him. Congratulations to Bridger, Halen, Jacob, Colin, MacKenzie, and Emma. I am grateful Taylor has a good group of friends that all keep the importance of their education on their priority list! Way to go guys (& girls)!!!

Camden's All Stars

2010-08-21T10:10:00.000-07:00

Camden had a great time playing All Stars this summer. He had such a great group of boys to be around and his coaches were top notch. He learned a lot from these great men.

Here is his team right after they won the District 14 tournament. The championship game was exciting. We won 2 - 1. I couldn't even watch the last three outs. (we were visitor) I seriously thought I was going to have a heart attack. It was so fun to see these cute boys celebrate! Camden played center field for the team. The boys even made the newspaper!

After the big win they went right back to work. We had 2 1/2 weeks to get ready for the State Tournament in Douglas, AZ. We were there for 6 long days. I wish I could say it was a lovely place to visit - but I can't. Unfortunately the accommodations were lacking as was the entertainment. The baseball was good when it wasn't raining. There was a little funny business with some umpires, rain delay decisions, makeup games and us being the only team having a double header in an elimination round....but it the boys played their hearts out and we got to watch some fun baseball games.

Getting the Creative Juices Flowing

2010-08-14T10:39:00.000-07:00

I have had this boo project sitting in my garage for a year. I finally did the painting and modge podging this summer and finished putting it together the first day of school. The wreath I saw this summer and have been wanting to make it. Luckily Sadie's birthday pushed me to get it done! They were both super fun and easy to do - once you figure out not to take the plastic off the straw wreath - :-) IT SHEDS EVERYWHERE if you do! The only other think I have learned is the hot weather in AZ tends to make your balloons loose so you may have to press down your floral pins if your birthdays are in the warmer part of the year. It is bit looser today than it was when I first hung it. Happy crafting!

First Day of School 2010

2010-08-11T11:13:00.001-07:00

Pictures say a thousand words - or just one! Taylor has never been a fan of picture taking. You'll see what I mean if you look at picture #1. I wish I could say it was the teenager coming out in him but alas it's just my Taylor. He was resigned to starting 8th grade. He didn't even need me to come to the Back To School night the Jr High held on Monday. It's old school same ole same ole I guess. Time is flying with this one. I can't believe he could be driving in 2 1/2 year. CRAZY.

Luckily I can still get a smile out of Camden. He is off to 4th grade this year! He has a class full of friends and is excited to stay busy and I am excited to get him off the x-box they just purchased. :-)

Haleigh has always taken a good picture! I love her sense of style - and she can always strike a pose! I love that she HAD to have red vans and that she wore them for the first day. It says so much about her personality! She is the queen of the school - the big 6th grader on campus. She was thrilled to get the teacher she desired and her good friend to boot! Ah the simple things in life and always the sweetest!

Here is my big first grader. She also was lucky to get a great teacher and with her bestest friend.

This is the "I can't believe you are embarassing me Mother by coming in my class and taking my picture!" picture.

The one below is "Okay I guess I'll make it good - you might post it on facebook" LOL

Taylor 2010 Baseball Recap

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

Taylor had a great year of baseball in 2010. The highlight had to be after Taylor started his Little League season he found out he made the Greenfield Jr. Baseball team. Although it made for a busy 2 months for him - he had a great time playing with boys he went to school with. Taylor played center field for his school team and some first base, short stop and center for his White Sox team. He played hard and had fun learning and growing on the bigger fields.

At the end of the school year Taylor was ready to take a break from baseball. Then he was nominated to play all stars... Taylor made the decision to not play. Unfortunately for him this age group less boys are available to play all stars due to their "teenage schedules". He was guilted into supporting the Junior Team (yep that was us). Luckily he was able to "enjoy" the experience with 2 good friends Jacob and Rhett Although the team didn't make it out of the district tournament - it was a good experience. Here are the only pictures I remembered to take. (loser mom)

#2 Girls Trip for 2010!!!!

2010-06-28T15:15:00.001-07:00

So our good friend Bart Hamilton wanted to send Kristi on a surprise birthday trip. Cami and I enjoyed obliging him. We had a fabulous girls weekend full of fun. We got Kristi a ticket and we all enjoyed Wicked in San Francisco Friday night for her birthday and then toured Napa all day Saturday. It was a fun filled day full of shopping, eating and taking in all the beautiful scenery of the area. Thanks again girls as always for a great time!

One of the best Hamburger joints you'll ever try. They lines are long but well worth the wait. It's called Taylor's Refresher. It's been featured on Diners, Drive - In's and Dives. But it is FAR from a dive. They food is amazing, and the service first rate and dining area immaculate. Yumm - o!

We were enthralled with the beauty of the red rose bushes at the end of each row of grapes.

Some crazy dude decided to build this castle in and around his vineyard. It took 20 years and a ridiculous amount of money - but it is authentic and really really pretty up on that hill!

Haleigh's End of School 2010 Activities and Awards

2010-06-01T09:18:00.000-07:00

Academic Night 2010! Haleigh values her education and has always enthusiastically embraces her love of learning and finding joy in the journey. I am so grateful for the amazing teachers she has had the advantage of having. Although I think she has that personality, I know the influence her teachers have had on her has fostered and encouraged her creativity and desire to succeed. She is my one kiddo who wants to finish everything the day she get it. No matter that the due date is a month away - nope we are off buying poster board, clay, pipe cleaners or felt at the store immediately. I love her enthusiasm and her great example. (Her Mom and both her brothers could learn from her)

After a year of tumbling, Haleigh finally got her back walkover? I love that I have a camera that finally captures action shots! Now for that back handspring! She is almost there :-)

Haleigh has been playing the violin now for 6 years. We were worried that Beginning Orchestra in 5th grade would be a "challenge" for her to participate in. Her teacher recognized she might be a little bored so she asked Haleigh to do a few extra things to help. Haleigh loved being able to help the kids just starting each class getting their violins tuned and helped them with their fingering and even reading the music.

At the beginning of their last concert her Conductor invited her to play a solo. (picture above) She played the Suzuki song she was working on- I think it was the first song of book 4. The audience gave her a standing ovation! It was so sweet. She was so touched and turned all red! The kids have always been so sweet to her graciously bestowed compliments to her at each concert. But I think she was most touched by some of the parents that stopped and complimented after the concert in the gym, outside the school and even in the parking lot.

I am so grateful that she has chosen to develop this talent and to bless us with it! Keep it up Haleigh.

Haleigh participates in a orchestra outside of school, the East Valley Youth Symphony. She set a goal early in the year and the last concert of the year was awarded for her hard work!!! She earned first chair! I love to see a goal, especially one not immediately realized, requiring continued and diligent work finally awarded! She was so excited. We are very proud of her!

Haleigh 11th Birthday

2010-05-30T09:20:00.000-07:00

Yes - I am playing catch up! Haleigh had a fun 11th birthday. We took Krispy Kreme in to school and her friend Gabby treated her to a mani / pedicure and then an afternoon of shopping topped off with lunch at chili's. How nice is that? It was an off party year for Haleigh so we had a fun family dinner and celebrated together. It was a fun weekend!

Camden Turns 9

2010-04-02T08:39:00.000-07:00

Yes this is catch up again! For some reason I can't find all the pictures I took of the festivities, but it was an off party year for Camden so we took in Krispy Kreme Doughnuts to school and then built a Doughnut Cake to take to the Baseball Game he was playing ON his birthday! Could you think of a better way for Camden to spend his day? We sure love this kid and couldn't imagine our lives without him.

He shared his birthday and cake with his teammate Dallin Ruiz.

Kona - 15 year Anniversary

2010-03-20T13:57:00.000-07:00

So Troy came home one day in March with his mother who was supposedly stopping by for a day on here way back to Utah visiting California. As they sat down on the couch Troy proceeds to tell me his mom is really here to watch the kids while he and I go to Kona, Hawaii for our 15 year anniversary. Now you need to understand - I HATE SURPRISES. Everyone knows I hate surprises which is why they sat there and laughed for a good 10 minutes while I sat there in shock. Luckily Troy changed him mind and told me the afternoon before we left instead of the morning of our flight. I probably would have killed him if he had done that! In the end it was an amazingly fun trip and a nice getaway from our day to day life. Troy managed to pull it off without a hitch. He took care of every detail and planned a beautiful trip full of fun memories I will never forget! I had been telling him for years that I wanted to go see Volcano National Park and apparently he was listening!! Love you honey. It was an amazing 15 years and I can't wait to look back at the next 15!

Troy is standing on the famous black beach and yet another sea turtle. They were everywhere in Kona! We loved to watch as they walk lazily around the beaches! In the picture on the right I am sitting in front of the famous sea arch. It is a picturesque spot on the drive to Volcano National Park. It was beautiful! If you were patient every 15 minutes or so water would spray through the arch like a blow hole. So fun!

This is in Volcano National Park where the lava spilled onto the road. You used to be able to drive all the way around the Park in a circle - but after this eruption in the late eighties- no more circle!

Behold the live volano!!!

We were able to go to the temple in Kona. Although they didn't rent clothing for a session, we were able to do some initiatories. It was a fun evening. The grounds at the temple were so beautiful. My favorite were the fan palm trees. I took a picture of one! It looks like it is holding up the angel Moroni!

This is the view of the ancient ruins of the King & Queen's temple from our hotel balcony in our room. It was fun to walk out there during low tide.

The were so many turtles at the beach by our hotel and just all around Kona! You were allowed to look only - $1500 fine if you touched them!

Disneyland and the ICM Food & Clothing Bank

2010-02-28T09:30:00.000-08:00

It was time again for our family to visit the happiest place on earth. We were lucky enough to be able to participate in Disneyland's promotion for 2010 which was "Give a Day - Get a Day". Our family signed up to volunteer at a family project center that helped families with donations for food, clothes and job placement. It was called Interfaith Cooperative Ministries Food and Clothing Bank in Phoenix. They kids were a little apprehensive when we first arrived, but soon after rolling up our sleeves and getting to work - they had a blast. We sorted clothing and hung them up on hangers. We filled up little bottles of shampoo and conditioner, and we organized donations by men, woman, and children clothing. After 2 1/2 hours it was time to go and our kids were amazed how quickly the time passed. It was a fun day to spend together as a family. I am grateful we were able to reach out to a different area to serve than we are normally used to. It was a great day. A few weeks later we were able to spend a fun couple of days at Disneyland. One day was free thank to the volunteer program and the second day we were able to go through Club 33 and have a divine lunch thanks to Dave Larsen!!! Club 33 is a private club inside of Disneyland. If you are ever in New Orleans Square just before the lane ends you will see a plain red door on your left with a simple gold plate with an engraved 33. It is locked from the outside but there is a doorbell. Only those with a reservation can enter. They serve 5 star food in a private dining room. There is nothing like have filet mignon to break up your rushing around Disneyland. It was a fun couple of days spent together. We were lucky to have my sister Melissa and my mom share it with us. We love Disneyland!!!

At the end of our first day!

Those dumb enough to go on the teacup. Feeling whoozy yet?

Love that face Camden!!

Sadie was so excited to see the princesses!

Nana, Aunt Melissa and the kids. Melissa, Taylor's gaining on you!!!

Taylor Turns 13 - WOW A TEENAGER!

2010-02-19T12:53:00.000-08:00

Poor Taylor - this is the only picture I have of his birthday. Because this was an off party year for him, it appears I forgot I owned a camera. I can't believe how old he looks!

In lieu of lots of fun pictures - the one below shows Taylor with his birthday breakfast traditions. Every birthday our kids get to pick their favorite breakfast menu and dinner out. Breakfast is always served up on our You are Special Today plate. My mom picked this tradition up when my family and I lived in Germany when I was a youngster. I had to have one and a few years ago found them at Marshalls of all places.
Taylor almost always picks Waffles with Strawberries and Whip Cream.

Last year my friend gave me the cupcake you see also on the table. This recently added tradition just makes the morning even more fun. Each birthday child wakes up (or comes home from school depending on how prepared or "un" prepared Mom is) and has to hunt for the hidden cupcake. There is a little something inside the cupcake. The kids love it!

Taylor is such a great kid. He is usually too smart for his own good - thinking he knows more than his parents, which in some cases may be true - but let's not go there! I love his logical nature and his uncommon sense of responsibility. He is one of the most honest people I have ever met and has a quiet sense of self esteem and confidence.

Taylor we love you and couldn't imagine our home without your sweet and tender spirit. Thank you for all you do for your Dad and I and of course the example you usually set for your siblings.

Halloween 2009

2009-11-11T22:10:00.000-08:00

You have to admit she's a cute little devil ehe?

That is Camden under the mask.
Haleigh our female pirate!

Taylor and his friend Jacob. They were the hit of the neighborhood. You can't see but they had tube socks and high tops on. They were so funny and had a great time with all the attention.

This year we were so busy we barely made it out. We didn't get our pumpkins carved but we did manage to get the kids in their costumes. We can always thank Haleigh for her perpetual preparedness. Now if we can keep her planning in the month of October next year! September is a bit early for me! It was fun to have Halloween on a Saturday. After 5 games here and there and everywhere - the kids had fun trick or treating with friends around the neighborhood.

Happy 5th BIrthday Sadie!

2009-08-15T15:46:00.000-07:00

Sadie picked Red Robin for her big 5th celebration. Nana Pat came to share her special day with her. Her favorite part had to be the balloon and the group of servers singing her Happy Birthday as loud as they could sing! After lunch Sadie got a BIG surprize. Nana took her to the mall and got her ears pierced. I can't decide who was more excited - Sadie or Haleigh! We sure love you Sadie baby and couldn't imagine our family without your sweet personality! Our family lunch at Red Robin

Sadie showing us her birthday cash!

The smartest thing ever thought up -- the double pierce!

First Day of School 2009

2009-08-10T09:32:00.000-07:00

Sadie's First Day of Kindergarten!!!

Camden's in 3rd grade

Haleigh striking a pose for 5th grade

Taylor's off to Jr. High

Hotel Del Coronado

2009-08-01T08:50:00.000-07:00

I have always wanted to go to the infamous Hotel Del! This past year they had a first ever special and we jumped right on it. It was such a fun time and such a beautiful hotel. We also enjoyed sharing the fun with our friends the Beechers. Both Kelly and I were loser picture takers but I did scrape together a few! We had a great time at the beach and loved just walking right out to the sand from the lobby of the hotel. One night while we were there they hotel had smore pits on the sand and while making smore after smore we got to watch the Navy Seals do a training exercise right on the shore. It was sure enteretaining and pretty amazing the strength and stamina they have to have. It was perfect weather for a beach weekend and a great way to end our summer. Love these four kids!

Camden and one of many sandcrabs found throughout the weekend.

Sadie and Cooper Beecher digging a hole in the sand!

BYU Baseball Camp

2009-06-26T18:45:00.000-07:00

Taylor had the another great year at BYU baseball camp. He was lucky enough to go with 3 other boys from Arizona. Taylor and Brayden were roomates and Bridger and Grady Olsen were roomates next door. They had a blast not only playing baseball, but also the ice cream socials, the trip to 7 peaks water park and the many games of capture the flag and running around campus. They also played a lot of cards on there "ledge" in the stairwell going to their room. Fun times with fun friends.

Bridger Page, Taylor & Brayden Martinez

The field they spent most of the week!

Stadium of FIre

2009-06-25T19:11:00.000-07:00

Haleigh and I were lucky enough to get tickets to Stadium of Fire. Haleigh was especially excited to see the Jonas Brothers! We sang until our throats were hoarse. I was quite the "cool" mom knowing all the words :-). I can't decide if that is something to be proud of or not! The fireworks were amazing and LOUD! It was a fun night with Haleigh. Our friend Amy Willardson and her Aunt got the seats right next to us. It was nice to see a familiar face in such a large crowd.

San Francisco 2009

2009-06-15T18:02:00.000-07:00

It was a beautiful day in San Francisco!

Its was pretty sunny!

Bart in his Barro's T-shirt! You know you miss good ole AZ!

The wind was a blowin!

Sadie & Alexa. Two little cuties!

Ashlyn, Taylor & Tanner on the Alcatraz tour.

Carson, Brayden & Camden on the tour of the Sourdough Factory.

In July we met our friends the Bruschke's and the Hamilton's for a fun weekend in Northern California. We got to spend a fun day in the city and took the kids to Alcatraz, Fisherman's Wharf, and a Sourdough Bread factory. The end of day we spent getting a Hot Fudge Sunday at Ghiradelli's Square. The next day we were able to attend Breann's baptism. We are grateful for the opportunities to spend time with these great families!

Camden's Baptism

2009-06-12T11:06:00.000-07:00

I figured it was time to recognize my sweet Camden and his special day. Camden was Baptized April 18th by his father. He was excited that both his Grandmas were able to come as well as cousins from California and Colorado. After he was baptized and confirmed we had a luncheon at our house. Everyone enjoyed lunch and swimming and visiting with good friends and family.

Camden was able to end his day with a baseball game. He was so excited to have his family from out of town there cheering him on! It was quite a day when he won the game by hitting a GRAND SLAM home run at the bottom of the last inning! His coach gave him the coveted "game" ball! It was an amazing day for an amazing kid.

We love you Camden and are so proud of the choice you make to become the newest member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints in the Plewe family!

Taylor the UMPIRE!

2009-04-21T09:58:00.000-07:00

Taylor has been working on he Citizenship in the Community Merit Badge. He selected Gilbert American Little League for the community non profit organization to learn about and to give service to. He helped with opening day and then is volunteering his baseball knowledge by umpiring the little guys playing in the Rookie league. Thanks to my friend Cheryl for taking these pictures for me. This is Taylor umping his 1st game! So fun --

Haleigh's Honors

2009-04-21T09:14:00.000-07:00

Haleigh with friends from EVYS also selected for the Honor Orchestra

Haleigh has had quite a month. It started out with an invitation to participate in the Gilbert Public Schools Honor's orchestra. Wow -- she isn't even in the schools orchestra yet! Orchestra begins in 5th grade here but one day she brought her violin in to play for her music teacher and the orchestra teacher heard her playing and immediately went about finding a way to have Haleigh play with her 5th graders. She spoke with her teacher, her ALP teacher (she has to leave math 5 min early) and the okay'd it all with the principal. Haleigh felt very special to be able to participate after all of that. Through that came her invitation to audition for the District Honor's Orchestra. She made it and although it made her schedule very full those two weeks, it was a very fun experience for her. We are very proud of the musician she is growing to be. We love you Haleigh and we are especially proud that you are developing the special talent your Heavenly Father has blessed you with!

Haleigh came straight from her softball game!

Haleigh and her classmate Zion

Haleigh's metal turtle. So cool!

The next opportunity Haleigh was honored with was her Gifted Artist Award. Haleigh had 3 pieces of her Art selected to display at the districts Art Show this year. Each class in the school has 2 children's art selected for the show. This is Haleigh's 4th year in a row being in the Art show. Let me just tell you this comes NOT from her mother. Thank goodness she has talented Grandmas and Grandpas. My stick figures just wouldn't cut it!

PICTURES TO COME :)

The last but not least honor Haleigh will receive this week is making Academic Night. In our school district if you get all A's (you can get 1 B) you qualify for a special award presented by the School Board. This begins in 4th grade and Haleigh made a goal to earn this award. She worked hard and accomplished it! Congratulations Haleigh. We are very proud of you. It is very rewarding to watch hard work and diligence pay off.

Our visit to Southern California

2009-04-03T10:03:00.001-07:00

The first weekend in March we went to our nephew Caden's baptism in Riverside, California. It was a special day the kids enjoyed spending time with their cousins and getting to share that day with Caden. Before we flew home on Sunday we stopped for a traditional visit to the tidepools. I think Troy has as much fun as the kids when we do this. He is the best at finding all sorts of creatures to view and hold -- oops just admitted to a crime there :) It was a beautiful day at the beach and we even got a decent family picture out of it!

Sping Break 2009

2009-04-03T09:33:00.000-07:00

Taylor & Ashlyn and her friend Dallin at the Californa Academy of Sciences Museum

Dallin & Haleigh

Camden & Sadie

Sadie & Alexa

Sadie in the tidepools

In San Francisco the California Academy of Sciences Museum at Golden Gate Park is free the third Wednesday of every month. In March that happened to fall on our Spring Break. We decided to join the Bruschke clan and visit this newly renovated museum. We got in early but still had to wait in line for over an hour before we got in -- but once we did the kids had a blast. They enjoyed the tidepools, the aquarium, the natural history portion of the museum and the Rain Forest wuth amazingly beautiful butterflies. Our trip was quick but fun. The kids enjoyed meeting up with their good friends. We miss the good ole days of bike riding, ball throwing and trampoline jumping of the old cul-de-sac. It was crazy to watch the two oldest of these two families head off to Mutual together later that night? Sad but fun to watch them grow up!

Taylor Turns 12

2009-04-03T09:24:00.000-07:00

Taylor had very specific birthday plans. Football & video games. He got what he wanted. Taylor and 12 boys played football for close to 2 hours. After football they came back to the house for pizza and 4 gaming stations set up for their gaming extravaganza. Playstation 2, X-box, WII. Guitars played, cars raced and boys ate. It was a fun night for all, especially Taylor.

The Suns Game!

2009-02-23T20:13:00.000-08:00

Troy & I

Julie & I

Right before both Julie Martinez and I celebrated our birthdays (they are only 2 days apart) Julie's husband Matt got tickets to the Suns game in his firms suite. Gotta love cushy seats, private bathroom and a catered meal! It was a fun night! This was my first time seeing the Suns live in action. The boys kept laughing at my apparent appall at what the cheerleader were wearing and of course their dance moves - gross! Gosh does that make me sound OLD! Luckily the Suns performance completely outshined the "dancers". They won by 40 + points! Thanks Matt for a good time - let's do it again soon!!!

Lion King

2009-01-21T20:22:00.000-08:00

For Della's Christmas and Birthday we got her and the rest of the family tickets to the Lion King. It was such a great night. We were lucky enough to get tickets on the aisle so we could see the animals parade right past us and we got an eagles eye view of the amazing costumes and choreography since we were on the third row!! The best part was attending a cultural experience that everyone enjoyed. There isn't much these days that my almost 12 year old and my 4 year old both enjoy equally!

Haleigh as Pocahontes Wins 2nd Place!!!

2009-01-21T20:09:00.000-08:00

Haleigh with two friends and neighbors. Kine Miltun and Cassie Bump.

Haleigh as Pocohontes

Haleigh is always ready for a fun project or activity. This past two months it has been the speech club preparing for the schools oratorical contest. She picked her character, researched and wrote her speech and proceeded to memorize her 5 minute prepared report on Pocahontes. I did nothing but proofread her final draft. I was so impressed with her. She honestly did this all on her own with no encouragement or even support. Should I be admitting that? I think she had to ask us 500 thousand times to buy her a costume. She even got on the internet and told us which stores carried it and how much it costs. What an amazing girl we have. Am I bragging? Well she deserves it. Go Haleigh we love you and are so proud of your effort. It paid off when she recieved 2nd place out of 20 students. She qualified for the district contest next week. She has a good chance since there you have to have your speech completely memorized and she was the only one at her school that did! You go girl!

UTAH FUN

2009-01-09T10:03:00.001-08:00

After Christmas we went to spend a few days with family in the snow of Utah. The first day Troy took Taylor, Haleigh and Camden to Sundance for a day of skiing with Aunt Cherrie and Max. Sarah stayed at home with Sadie and Sophie. They spent the morning at the Kangaroo Zoo - a warehouse full of bouncies and blow up slides etc. After lunch we went up to see our skiing kids. They all had a fun day. Another day we went up to Heber and went tubing with the whole Lassiter family. Thanks Nana Pat for such a fun activity. It was pretty cold but managed to hold out for the 2 hour session. The sun was shining -it was a beautiful day in the snow. Both cameras that made it to the fun had dead batteries :( so we only got a few pictures but at least we got a few!

Sadie & Sophie

Camden skiing at Sundance

Taylor, Troy before they tackled the black diamond run with Aunt Cherrie!

Haleigh skiing at Sundance

Andrew & Haleigh posing with Sophie

The non skiiers

Sadie and Troy tubing at Soldiars Hollow

Sadie ready to go on the tow rope

Yep even Nana Pat tubed!!! Can you believe it?

Haleigh & Bella

Sophie and Cherrie

Christmas 2008

2009-01-04T21:58:00.000-08:00

Christmas was fun and relaxing. We started off Christmas Eve with our traditional tortilla soup and drinking our rootbeer reindeers. The kids each got to pick ONE present to open and after reading the Christmas story from the scriptures it was off to bed. Christmas morning came with the excitement of presents. Mom and Dad especially enjoyed making Haleigh wait till the last present to get her "helmet" & scavenger hunt for her motor scooter. It was especially enjoyable knowing that she probably peeked and knew all the rest of her presents. Thats a whole other story probably not blog appropriate :) We love Haleigh but man oh man that girl.....

Here is Sadie proudly displaying her own bling. She kept wanting to wear Haleigh's. Now she has her own. Your so cute my sweet Sadie! You can't really tell in the picture but now our little princess has her own little crown!

The boys were very excited to get the wii set up and start rocking out with the rock band and baseball games. The girls got a turn eventually!

There she is....the screaming was deafening. She loved her only present from mom & dad and I think has forgiven our torture since she has ridden the battery dead so many times over the holiday we lost track. Thank goodness she has friends to cruise the neighborhood with!

The crazy Plewe Crew with beautiful Christmas smiles. It was a great morning.

Shortly after the present frenzy we all gathered in the kitchen to help cook and scarf down our big Christmas breakfast. Bacon, sausage, OJ, Hash brown, and pancakes. Yumm. It was a very Merry Christmas. After a big breakfast and a morning of the wii and scooter riding, we met our friends for another of our traditions...a movie. We saw Marley and Me and well let's just say it was rated PG but if Taylor didn't already know about procreation -- he does now. It was a good movie it just discussed how you start a family many times as well as supported by visually hints. Oh goodness. I was embarassed for my almost 12 year old. I ended my fabulous day by going to bed at 8:30 pm. Now thats a MERRY CHRiSTMAS!

Best Husband Ever!!!

2008-12-13T15:52:00.000-08:00

Recently I had a little accident in the kitchen (almost cut off my finger...) and I have been unable to do a few things that needed to get done....and can you believe it Troy suggested he go and buy some flowers and plant them? Yes he "designed them himself, with inspiration from a friends planters. GO TROY. Aren't they pretty? Here are some of the amazing things Troy has done lately:

1) planted flowers

2) gone w/ his wife to see Twilight!

3) done the dishes everyday since the injury

I am a lucky girl!

Thanksgiving FINALLY!!!

2008-12-13T15:34:00.000-08:00

Thanksgiving was a fun week. Della, Troy's mom came for the whole week. She was able to come the weekend before and got to watch Taylor's last football game, Haleigh & Sadie's last soccer games and our Primary program. It was our first and last year all of our kids will be in it together!!! We had a fun Turkey Day with yummy food! Troy and I even got up early and did some Black Friday shopping. Later that day Troy and Della took the kids on a 3 mile hike to Lost Dutchman. They did pretty well and had fun climbing on the rocks at the top.

My Super Speller!!!

2008-11-20T11:50:00.000-08:00

Taylor qualified for his school spelling bee for the second year! He came in third place this year! Way to go Taylor I am so proud of you.

Stop and think.....

2008-11-03T10:40:00.000-08:00

I am often struck by the wisdom in simple observations penned by people I admire. I decided I needed to read them more often as they apply to my life. Recently I was on a weekend getaway with Troy and some fabulous friends of ours. We had just finished hiking to a beautiful waterfall and we were in a resort gift shop buying water. While browsing (and cooling off) I came across a quote by Eleanor Roosevelt.

"Great minds discuss ideas; average minds discuss events; small minds discuss people. "

That really made me stop and think....as our life continues, as we grow older and our kids too, as good friends move away -I find myself most often discussing people -- how does that that apply in my life. What kind of benefit am I deriving from these discussions?

The next one came to my mind after my son's football game this past Saturday. We played a team that played really dirty. In a 40 min game this team had 3 holding penalties (that were called) and 5 flag guarding penalties called. (there were probably 15 incidents of flag guarding total - only 5 were called) They jumped and pushed and were very physical. It was frustrating gamee. The boys were frustrated, the coaches were frustrated. The other team was cussing and smack talking to our boys. It was a bad experience. After once again complaining about a call or a NO call -- the parents on the other side of the field started yelling to us to sit down, shut and and stop whining. Somehow (I know big surprize) " then stop cheating " was yelled quite loudly at the other side of the field by someone who shall remain nameless (me). After being embarrassed -- yep I admit it -- and reflecting upon it after the game the quote I had rubbed onto my boys wall came to my mind by John Wooden.

"Sports do not build character -- they reveal it."

I really think that applies to all aspects of the game. Players, Coaches, Referee's & Umpires and especially THE PARENTS. My goal is to now live that in my life during my many years of being a sports mom. Its harder then it sounds! But I know it is something important we can teach our children. LIFE IS NOT FAIR (don't you hate to admit that?) and we need to decide how we are going to deal with it. Are we going to get mad and yell across the field (oops) or are we going to put it all out there in our effort to play a game with integrity? I am grateful for the fabulous coach's that didn't get crazy mad - (or at least they didn't show it) and they told the boys to play through it and show them how to play the game with integrity. I am grateful for the positive role they are playing in my son's life. Now if I can just do the same!

I am voting YES on Proposition 102

2008-11-02T07:33:00.001-08:00

I spent a few hours the last two days hanging door flyers for this proposition. I have family and friends in California knocking on doors and standing on street corners with 40 - 50 others getting yelled and cursed at and had thing thrown at them for holding up signs for their Prop 8. Yet others - strangers have stopped, parked their cars and joined them!

Recently I had an email containing a graphic manipulation of Samual the Lamanite on the wall having arrows shot at him -- but instead he was holding a Yes of Prop 8 sign -- doesn't it feel that way? What has happened to our country? I think the sadest part are members of my own faith picketing Church headquarters against the stand we as a faith are taking to preserve marriage between a man and a woman. It it suprizing how well Satan spreads his deception. I proudly stand for what I know to be morally correct and fundamentally crucial to the future of our country and our freedom and especially our families. I will vote YES on Prop 102 and I encourage you to do the same.

Halloween Fun

2008-11-01T21:25:00.000-07:00

We loved having HALLOWEEN on Friday. It was one long day -- but then it was over. The kids of course went to the houses with the king size candy bars first and then enjoyed running around with their friends in a race for the most candy. Sadie did decide she did not like the haunted house and anyone jumping out at her -- as Troy was relaying that information she piped in and she said, "Yes mom, I screamed -- I did not like it!"

Fall Football Fun

2008-10-28T16:31:00.000-07:00

This is Taylor's second year of flag football. He plays with great group of boys and coaches. One thing Taylor has learned this year is that hard work pays off. Taylor has had a lot of success catching extra points and intercepting the ball. In the game below he had two interceptions! One he ran with for a touchdown and another he made it back to the 5 yard line! As a parent there is nothing more satisfying than watching your child learn hard work equals success. A modest fist pump after a touchdown -- well there is nothing better! Go Cowboys!

After his interception turned touchdown! Go Taylor!

Sadie's 1st year of soccer!

2008-10-07T15:57:00.000-07:00

I don't know if there is anything cuter than watching a bunch of adoreable 4 & 5 year old girls playing soccer! Sadie is pretty young but has done pretty well considering! She even scored a goal in her first game! Go Yellow Jackets! Both Nana Pat and Nana Plewe came into town for a weekend to watch the kids play their games. Sadie loves spending time with her Grandmas!

Proposition 8 in California

2008-09-16T13:43:00.000-07:00

Many of you have heard of Proposition 8 in California. I have had friends and family knocking on doors trying to educate the public about the consequences of this legislation. Here are some of the possible ramifications if it DOES NOT pass. Thanks to my sister in law Kelly for letting me borrow your typing! These are serious issues. If you know anyone in California urge them to vote for this proposition. States across the nation are waiting the outcome of this before drafting similar legislation.

1. Children in public schools will have to be taught that same-sex marriage is just as good as traditional marriage

2. Anti-discrimination regulations will become more important than religious beliefs.

3. Churches will be sued over their tax-exempt status if they refuse to allow same-sex marriage ceremonies in their religious buildings open to the public.

4. Religious adoption agencies will be challenged by government to give up their long-held right to place children only in homes with both a mother and a father.

5. Religions that sponsor private schools with married-student housing will be required to provide housing for same-sex couples, even if counter to church doctrine, or risk lawsuits over tax exemptions and related benefits.

6. Ministers who preach against same-sex marriages will be sued for hate speech and could be fined by the government.

Canyon Lake

2008-09-12T20:22:00.001-07:00

We enjoyed a fun afternoon at Canyon Lake with our good friends the Lymans. The kids each got to try skiing and wake boarding. Even Sadie got a turn with Troy -- what a trooper! All the kids decided wake boarding was the best. Thank so much Lymans for taking us and for taking such fun pictures since we forgot our camera! We love the lake!

Seattle

2008-09-07T09:54:00.000-07:00

We spent a weekend in Seattle with our friends the Hamiltons and the Bruschkes. It was a fun filled trip. We spent a day in the city learning about the history of Seattle with an underground walking tour, going to the top of the space needle and browsing the famous Pike's Market. The next day we spent some time at the Ballard Locks and the salmon ladders, we took a hike to a beautiful waterfall and then ended the day taking the ferry to Bainbridge Island. We had a great time.

Sadie's 4th Birthday

2008-09-07T09:39:00.001-07:00

Sadie's Birthday was August 15th. Troy and I were actually out of town so Nana Plewe was staying with the kids. She wanted to make Sadie's day special so she took her out to lunch decked out with a Birthday Girl crown to Red Robins. They waitresses gave her balloons, an ice cream sunday and sang to her. She loved it. Later that night the kids made her day special with decorations and the special day plate accompanied a cake and candles. How sweet her siblings were to her. It is nice to get a glimpse of that - once in a great while :) - Two weeks later when scheduling permitted we had a small party with some of her friends. Haleigh was amazingly enthusiastic planning all the games and activities. She even had it written out how long each activity should take before determining the length for the invitations. How nice is that for Mom? She planned pin the crown on the princess, musical chairs and a princess pinata. Thanks Haleigh for all of your help! It was fun!

1st Day of School

2008-09-07T09:28:00.000-07:00

The kids were excited to start school again -- but probably not as excited as I was :). Taylor is in 6th grade, Haleigh 4th and Camden is in 2nd grade this year. They all have great teachers and we are looking forward to a year full of learning and growth. Sadie is going to preschool and I will get her posted soon!

Northern California to visit the Bruschke Family

2008-08-31T10:36:00.000-07:00

We decided we hadn't traveled enough this summer so five days before school started and three days after being home from So Cal we hopped back on a plane to visit our good friends the Bruschkes. We had a great time with the beautiful cool mornings and evenings. It is amazing how even after a year of not seeing each other the kids just started where they left off. It was especially fun to see Sadie and Alexa renew their memories of each other since they had the least amount of time together. I have to admit my favorite part was having someone cook for her! Especially someone that loves to cook as much as she does. The kids enjoyed the creek up the street and climbing around rock city.

I just love this picture.

I hope to take another one in 10 years of our most likely, most loyal BYU athletes :)!

Sweet Summertime

2008-08-31T10:20:00.000-07:00

We think as parents we need to spend so much time and energy and money entertaining our kids in the summer when really all they need are the simplicities of nature. My kids can spend sun up to sun down and still not want to leave the beach. It cost us a whopping 5.00 in quarters for the meter for an entire day of fun. They loved swimming in the waves (and yes even Taylor gets in the freezing Pacific water) they boogie boarded for hours but the biggest time consumer was the digging and sorting of sand crabs. Why this gross little water bugs fascinate them is beyond me but they did and do and we had hundreds in buckets lining the camp of chairs and towels. We enjoyed the company of our friends the Jacobsens one day and Dad joined us the next. We love the beach!

Salt Lake City

2008-08-31T10:03:00.000-07:00

After the Dibb Reunion we stayed at the Marriott in Salt Lake with Della, Tim & Kelly, Tyler & Kate and of course the kids. They all loved swimming in the pool and jumping on the hotel beds. The only down side of this stay was the night club music that was blasting t hrough the street that sounded like our room windows were wide open (which they were not). When we called the front desk to ask about a room change we were offered ear plugs?! I think the most drastic contrast was the glow of the Temple behind the blare of music at 1 am. So sad.

The next day we enjoyed a visit to the Hogle Zoo. The giraffe's were the favorite animal of the day. Shortly after the zoo the girls and I got dropped of at the airport to fly home while the boys drove the car home. Troy was being so nice offering to let me fly home after the 3000 miles we drove around Utah, Wyoming, Idaho and Montana this summer. Ironically there was a monsoon in Arizona and after several delays and hours in the SLC airoport, we pulled into our garage a mere 5 minutes before the boys....

Plewe Family Pictures

2008-08-31T09:49:00.000-07:00

During the Dibb Reunion we were able to squeeze in some family pictures. Wow is it difficult as I am sure many of you are aware - to take a picture with 13 kis 11 years and under. But then again Troy was just as trying with his sarcasm and smart alec smiles! I can't imagine how Della got any decent family pictures with Troy in the mix!

Clayton, Tim & Kelly, Della, Troy & Sarah, Todd & Monica, Kate, Austin & Tyler, Trevor

Taylor, Hayden

Caden, Camden, Haleigh, Kiselys

Carter, Sadie, Dimery, Thayer

Dibb Family Reunion Day 2

2008-08-21T13:16:00.001-07:00

The second day of the reunion was full of fun. We started on the lake with paddle boats & canoes. The kids had a blast trying to race us (they lost) and splashing each other. After the lake came the challenge courses. We showed our bravery with the pole climb, walking across the beam and riding the zip line. Our Camden sweet boy was quite scared after he climbed the pole and realized how high up he was. It took a little reassurance but he finally dried his tears and kept going. Camden we are so proud of you!

After the zip lines we went to some team building activities. First was the Island passage. Basically we all needed to swing from the sinking ship to the island over the ocean of sharks. Can you see the square piece of plywood 16 of us are suppose to fit on. I think that is all I need to say about that! Next we went to two cables connected to two trees starting out close together then widening towards the end. This activity was about trust. All the kids had a cousin their ages and they all did really well. The last activity was also about teamwork. Everyone needed to walk on boards with ropes simultaneously. That was interesting with the ages ranging from 2 - 35! All and all it was a fun day! We all had a great time and appreciated all the hard work of the Dibb Clan for planning and putting it on. We'll see you in four years!

Go Sadie!
Taylor transitioning from the pole to the zip line.

Haleigh zipping on down!
My brave boy Camden!!!
Sarah showing off --look no hands :)

Struggling to stay on the "island"
Camden & Caden working on their teamwork .

Canoeing on the lake.

Haleigh & Kiselya

Taylor & Hayden

2008 Dibb Family Reunion

2008-08-21T12:54:00.000-07:00

The Dibb family reunion started out with dinner and of course after rousing games of PIT. The Plewe's held their own with their share of yelling, pounding the table and stealing as many card trades as possible! The games even continued into the cabins after 'lights out" SSH!

Taylor, Camden and Hayden playing Great Dalmuti in the bunks!

Haleigh & Kiselya holding their own!

Hayden, Camden, Taylor & Kimberly Hall

Back off Troy your not getting my cards!

The Owlz Game GO ANGELS!!!

2008-08-21T12:33:00.000-07:00

For those of you that may not know -- we are huge Angels fan. Well Provo is the home of one of their minor team the Owls. We were enjoyed their Dollar Wednesday family nights. Dollar tickets, dollar hotdogs, dollar popcorn, dollar soda. Oh yea we were loaded up. Taylor was at baseball camp at BYU so he didn't get to go but we cheered them on for him. Trevor and Sadie loved the mascot. Trevor (my nephew) couldn't stop looking at him - thus this head turned in all our pictures. It was a fun night. We even ran into a Dibb cousin Darin and his sons. Thanks Della and Tyler for taking us!

Summer Part 2

2008-08-21T11:33:00.000-07:00

I decided now that all the kiddos are back in school--(yea!) that I should finally get my summer blogging finished so I can move on. I am using this blog not only to keep in touch with friends and family but also as a journaling tool. SO here is our Summer Part 2. After our BYU sports camps our annual visit to Idaho and our amazing experience in Yellowstone with our friends the Page's we moved on to family visiting. My wonderful brother in law and his wife were kind enough to let us use their basement as our pit stop all summer long. We would stay a couple of days and visit as well as wash clothes, repack and go again. This routine happened three or four times throughout June & July. It was so nice of them to put up with us. The kids loved staying there and hanging out with their cousins. While there we decided Camden & Austin are twins. What do you think?

The kids had a lot of fun with their cousins this summer. We stayed at Troy's brothers house and played alot at Sarah's brothers house. They have a huge backyard with a tree house. trampoline, swingset, basketball court and of course dogs & cats. It was a great time reconnecting with their cousins. Another shout out to my great sister in laws and family for hosting us!

Camden, Trevor, Haleigh & Sadie

Haleigh, Sadie, Bella, Ava & Max

Sophie & Sadie

Yellowstone pictures

2008-07-18T22:25:00.000-07:00

Taylor caught one in the Firehole!

Haleigh & Camden hiding food for the bears
Taylor & his friend Bridger hiding food for the bears

Haleigh & Sadie at Old Faithful!

Horseback riding near Canyon Lake

Taylor at the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone.

Provo, Boise & Yellowstone

2008-07-08T12:20:00.000-07:00

With our good friend the Hamiltons!

The Rexburg Idaho Temple

Camden at BYU fooball camp

HAPPY 4TH OF JULY!!!

Grand Teton National Park

Well we are 2/3 of the way done with our vacation! It has been so fun and relaxing to just spend time with family and friends and enjoy the beautiful weather. We were able to spend the 4th of July in Yellowstone. What an amazing way to celebrate our Nations freedom than to be in one of the most beautiful places in our country! I will do a new post with all the wildlife we were so lucky to see- 7 bears, 3 coyotes, tons of elk, deer & bison and the great fishing the boys enjoyed!

Sadie in Swim Lessons

2008-07-02T19:42:00.000-07:00

Here is Sadie in her little swimming lessons. She loved her teacher and swimming with her friends Ella and Kylie.

Haleigh goes to High School Musical!!!

2008-06-18T17:27:00.000-07:00

Two years ago my mother-in-law and I started a fun tradition with my kids. For Christmas and birthdays she gives each of them an event or activity for their present. Last year the kids each got a trip with her to Disneyland. This year the boys got a sports camp at BYU and Haleigh got a ticket for HIGH SCHOOl MUSICAL. Of course she was thrilled to get to go to California. Although she has "decided" she is afraid to fly. Troy and I can't imagine why this has happened especially seeing how she has flown several hundred times in her lifetime!!! During her trip she got to help in Della's classroom and spend time with her cousin Caden. Thanks Kelly for emailing me the pictures. I am so appreciative to my amazing mother in law for giving the kids what they love the most -- time with her. I am grateful for the relationship and the memories they are experiencing and making with her. Thanks Della -- we love you!

2008-06-14T21:46:00.001-07:00

Well I have finally done it. Thanks to my friend Ronda I have figured out the simplest blog layout and even managed to download a few pictures of the kiddos. I have loved reading friends and family blogs and seeing fun pictures of you all that I thought I would give this a try. What an amazing way to "journal" our lives while staying in touch with each other. I will probably be bugging you all now as to how to do this or that with my page so be aware!

Summer has be a blast so far. Just today I decided it was truly HOT. We sat at Camden's swim meet today and it was so long -three teams were competing so we were there almost 3 1/2 hours if you count the time I waited for the gate to open to obtain our optimal location for swim race viewing and after a few hours it was just plain hot and sweaty. We are now looking forward to leaving the hotness and begin our month long vacation across the states of Utah, Idaho and Yellowstone. I guess Yellowstone is not a state -but it is a state park! We leave Friday and are still planning on driving -- yes I said driving to Utah. For those of you that know us well that is a MAJOR accomplishment for Troy to get me into the car for 12 hours. It has not been done in well 8 years. I never thought I would see the day but here it is. Our family is too big for anyone to pick up up at the airport and renting a van for the month was too expensive. So I will report back if I make it there alive. I faintly remembering the last time Troy mentioning driving with me was worse than the kids all put together......