Disneyland and the ICM Food & Clothing Bank

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!

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.