The Wright Stuff

Hockey Date

2012-02-11T12:44:00.000-08:00

Aaron's work took us to the Coyotes game and we had really good seats. It was lots of fun and we got to hang out with some great friends. I love dates that don't cost anything!

Courtney and me.

Our row was announced as the row that gets free Papa John's pizza coupons, but they messed up and gave them to the row two rows ahead of us. Rip off! When asked about it, they said the announcer messed up and said the wrong row. Better luck next time. Oh-well.
We had a really good time, though, and the Coyotes won!

Baptisms

2012-02-05T20:35:00.000-08:00

I went to my niece, Madi's baptism yesterday and I was just thinking about how special and wonderful that event is. My brother did such a great job and it was incredibly sweet and touching. Also, I'm grateful my husband is such an amazing man and father and that he was able to baptize our kids just like my dad baptized me. What a blessing. I am so grateful for families and the happiness ours has brought to me. I love that my kids have so many cousins and aunts and uncles and g'mas and g'pas. I never really had that growing up and I must say, it's wonderful and sooo much fun. Anyway, that's all. I'm just feeling so thankful right now for all that I have, my friends, family, a house, a washing machine (could you imagine?)....

Here's a few pictures to look at for fun.

Aaron and Tyson (8yrs old)

Lucas (8yrs old) and Aaron

I'll tell you what, this is by far the coolest jumpsuit out of the three. LOL Love the belt!
My Daddy and Me (8yrs old)
Cool hair, huh?

Rodney Atkins--Watching You

2012-02-02T19:14:00.000-08:00

I know a lot of you have heard this song before, but I just wanted to share it with any of you that haven't or haven't in a while. I really like this song. It's so special, and sometimes scary, how our kids really are watching us all the time, even when we don't realize it. They are so quick and eager to learn. What a blessing and responsibility to have that pressure to be on our best behavior all the time. I'm grateful to be a mother and have an amazing husband who is the best daddy ever. Anyway, you should check out the video... Rodney Atkins--Watching You.

X-rays and Spirits

2012-02-01T18:19:00.000-08:00

Last week pretty much EVERYONE in our house was sick with fevers and coughs. Wilson ended up with breathing treatments, steroids, antibiotics and PNEUMONIA. So fun. Anyway, when we went to go get a chest x-ray to see for sure if it was pneumonia, he was pretty excited. First x-ray. Afterwards, he asked me, "Can they see my spirit on an x-ray?" I said, "No." Wilson said, "Oh, I was thinking it was blue and maybe naked, or not naked." So cute! I love you Wilson!

International Soccer Game

2012-01-27T08:49:00.000-08:00

Aaron took Lucas and Wilson, along with Bubba, Justin, Papa, Nate and Drew, to the International Soccer Game between USA and Venezuela at the University of Phoenix Stadium. They also all had a yummy dinner at one of our favorite restaraunts, Hal-o-peno's.

The End.

Swingin' Good Time

2012-01-17T12:59:00.000-08:00

We enjoyed the park while Aaron, Lucas and Wilson had soccer practice along with some of our Alger and Ely cousins and our neighbor Betheny. Ryan
Tyson-10yrs

Nate

Drew

Monkeys after my own heart!

Cheesy Nellie Girl-2yrs

She loves swinging. As Gram pulls the kids back for the first swing/push she always says, "To the Moon." That's one of Nellie's favorite things now. "To the Moooooon!"

Nellie and Jonah

Rona-3 1/2 yrs

Fiesta Bowl

2012-01-10T13:25:00.000-08:00

Aaron and I got to go to the Fiesta Bowl and pre-game party/dinner with Elisa and Fred. It was so much fun.

We had AWESOME seats in the 20th row from the bottom!

I even bought some cotton candy for $5.75! I never get it, but this time I did. Do you know how much sugar you could buy with $5.75? A lot. Oh-well, it was really tasty.

I LOVE COTTON CANDY!

Too bad Stanford lost.

Thanks guys for a great night!

A Zoo at the Zoo

2012-01-10T12:49:00.000-08:00

My mother in law took us all to the zoo over winter break. 3 adults and 11 kids. I think everyone else in the valley had the same idea...it was really busy there. We had a great time though and Jonah was the only kids to get lost. whew. We found him after only looking for a few minutes though. Here are all the fun times we had...

Wilson

Tyson and Cian in the petting zoo.

Grandma showing Jonah the cute monkeys.Sophie and Jonah

Me and Nellie, this was one of the few times that she got out of the stroller. She loved that thing. It sure must be nice to have someone push you around all the time, where ever you want to go.

Megan and Delanie

Nells

Sean and his new friend

Cian

DelanieTyson

Teenagers, always texting.

Zoe

Another girl in our family!

2012-01-09T10:37:00.000-08:00

I'm not going to do a whole post on Christmas morning, my pictures aren't great and we didn't even end up taking very many. However, it was a wonderful morning and we had lots of fun. Santa brought a cat and we LOVE her. Her name is Lola Eevvee Wright (the middle name is a type of Pokemon) She's really sweet and lots of fun.

Post Surgery 1 month 8 days

2012-01-09T10:23:00.000-08:00

Honestly, this whole experience has been so good for me. And yes, I am a little better about wearing hats and sunscreen, and the same for my kids.
I originally put all this on my blog so I wouldn't feel as self conscience out in public, but it's turned out to do more than that. I've had several people come and talk to me about cancer, things they are worried about on their skin, prevention, etc. I hope this ends up helping someone not get skin cancer, or helps them to catch it earlier on. Anyway, here are some post-op pictures in case you haven't already seen me. These were taken today by my 3 year old after we got home from the gym, 1 month and 8 days after surgery.

The scar will eventually fade. I am very please with how everything turned out. I was worried it was going to look some much worse. Yeah!

Several people have asked me what dermatologist I go to, well here's their website.

I go to Dr. Elizabeth Owen for yearly check ups and Jill McKenzie did my Mohs surgery.

Give me a call sometime, we'll hang out in the shade together!

Jam-Packed Christmas Season

2011-12-30T08:03:00.000-08:00

Our 2nd annual Christmas Caroling at the nursing home on Christmas Eve. I'm absolutely in love with this newly founded tradition. It's fun and it's wonderful for all of us to get to come and visit all these grandmas and grandpas. We mostly just walk up and down the halls while singing songs, waving hello, greeting, and smiling. There was this one elderly gentleman that got out his harmonica and started playing along with us from his room, while in his wheel chair. That was amazing to me that he could just play any song we were playing.

Then off to Gram and Papa's house for a short Nativity Poem re-enactment.

Previously that week, Tyson, Lucas, and Wilson all performed in their school musical presentations. Here's Tyson...

Yes, Nellie turned 2 years old a few weeks ago. She has definitely not disappointed on the TERRIBLE TWO's area.

That's a cupcake with marbles on it. There were also frosting covered marbles all over the floor.

She has also discovered the glories of make-up.

Getting naked anywhere and everywhere is her greatest delight. At our Christmas Eve gathering, she literally got naked at least 15 times. However, on the flip side, she is potty training herself. That is wonderful!!!

We're at the Temple lights here.

I LOVE THESE CHILDREN OF MINE.

They are each so very different and wonderful.

What a joy that Aaron and I get to have these great blessings in our home and raise them.

I am truly grateful.

Ward Christmas Party

Nellie-screaming

Tyson

Jonah

Lucas

WilsonOur Primary also did a Nativity scene.

Lucas is the Donkey, Tyson is the King in dark blue.

That was some of our business from the month of December. We've had lots of fun and made great memories.

Trying to Obey...

2011-12-30T07:31:00.000-08:00

Jonah was on the counter and I asked him to get down and walked out of the room. He started calling me a minute later and this is what I found...

He had tried to get down but his pants got caught on the cabinet knobs. He was stuck!
Suspended in mid-air...

I thought that was funny!

Joy School Nativity Play

2011-12-30T07:16:00.000-08:00

Jonah a his Joy School group got to go to an assisted living home and perform for bunch of Grandmas and Grandpas. It was exciting! (That means a bit crazy with a bunch of 3year olds standing around, not happy with what is occurring.) However, I'm glad he got to do it anyway.

Jonah was the Inn Keeper and the only child with a speaking part. He got to say, "No Room," 3 times!!!!

Go Jonah! (Look at Nellie-what a cheese ball)

Jonah with 2 kings and an angel.

Very solemn looking.

1 hour everyday

2011-12-18T21:56:00.000-08:00

Everyday, I have an hour wait between when Wilson and Tyson get out of school. Their school is 20 minutes away so I don't drive home in between, we usually do homework, read books and play in the car. Well, one day my kids got my camera while I was talking to a long-time-no-talk-to-friend (Lindsey) and it was fun.

Here's a lovely picture of the air vent...up close!!!

As I was going through all these pictures and deleting them from my camera, frustrated that I didn't stop them while they were doing it, I saw the air vent pictures...What is that pink thing, in my car a/c vent?

It's my favorite toothbrush I looked EVERYWHERE for a few months ago!! Do you ever feel like your going crazy cause you can't find one simple little thing? Look in your air vents!!

We rescued it right then and there with a pair of scissors and the red eyes light from the camera as a spotlight.

I guess the random pictures that kids take sometimes can be work looking at. I'm glad that toothbrush is out of my air vent and didn't prevent it from working correctly.

Graham Cracker Houses 2011

2011-12-18T21:29:00.000-08:00

Every year Gram hosts our gingerbread (graham cracker) house decorating party. The kids don't really try to make them look beautiful, they try to get as much candy, that they like, on the house as possible. We all have so much fun. Thanks again Gram!!!

My Dad's cousin, Sandy (in the red), was down for a visit from Wisconsin. It was lot's of fun getting to hang out with her while she was here.

Josh is in an architecture class at his high school, this is where it all began...I'm sure of it.

Gram, Heidi, Jessi, Cadie, Tyson --(what a goofball!)

Nellifred

Jonah

Tyson

Lucas

Wilson was not feeling well. He and Aunt Cadie were chattin' it up.

Cancer, What?

2011-12-02T09:54:00.000-08:00

So, I'm a magnet for skin cancer, I guess. I had Melanoma on my leg when I was 17 years old. Now 30, and I have basal cell carcinoma. Both skin cancers. However, the second one is not a life threatening kind, that's good! Well, that's what I had surgery for on my face yesterday. So fun! They had to go back after the initial removal and get more cause they didn't get it all the first time. (that's pretty normal though, they want to take as little as possible so they do it a little at a time) Anyway, you may or may not want to look at my scary pictures below. It's been a humbling experience for my pride and vanity.

Before picture

See the little red dot on my cheek near my nose...that's part of the cancer. I guess I was extra lucky and got an added bonus of a special something that makes this kind of cancer grow deeper instead of just staying on the surface like it usually does. I mean really, if you're going to do some thrill seeking, you've got to go all the way. Right?

Post operative, I tried to smile but my face was too swollen on that side to let me so I just look like a dork.

All the good stuff hidden underneath the gauze...my face is still really swollen on that side. It doesn't hurt very much, just a slight dull pain.

15 stitches all together

Anyway, that's the excitement around our house.

Church Campout

2011-11-23T22:35:00.000-08:00

It started out with Aaron sick and planning on leaving that evening with Jonah and Nellie (to make the sleeping easier for me and the boys.) Then as the night went on, Tyson got sick and went home with Aaron too. In the middle of the night, I started getting sick and I was fah-ree-zing! Got up early, cleaned up and went off to soccer games that morning. However, we really did have a good time, despite all the not fun stuff. LOL

Nellie carried that chair with her everywhere that night. I love roasting marshmallows. It's challenging to get the perfect one and they taste so yummy. I probably ate more than all the kids combined.

Looking forward to next years!

Halloween x 4 = FUN!!

2011-11-23T21:58:00.000-08:00

Not pictured in chronological order...

Halloween night-Real trick 'r' treating with the Young Cousins.

Papa and Gram came by for the photo op.

Clownin' around. Dad, you should wear that tie to church.

We had to hit up Mc Donald's cause they were giving out free hamburgers to kids dressed up. Can we say, "Dinner!"
Wilson was the biggest helper with carving the pumpkin this year. I love doing that every year. It creates such wonderful memories.

Joy School Party!

Our Pirate family...arrgggh!

School trunk 'r' treat

One-eyed Nellie and me. (Sounds like a song title)

Church Party Donut Eating Contest.

Tyson

Lucas

A Glimpse

2011-11-23T21:05:00.000-08:00

Here's a really shortened version of the eventful Gavin and Cadie Wedding day! It was so much fun! Nellie saw an older cousin dancing (tango-like) with a rose in her mouth. Nellie wanted to try!

Wall of lovey pictures, PHOTO BOOTH. We all had so much fun with this. Here are some of my cousins giving it a whirl. I made this with the help of others...especially my Dad!

At my Parents' house. All the cousins lined up in order of heighth. Jessi and Stephanie made all the girls matching skirts. They turned out so cute!

Baby Danica. I love this picture. She is so little.

Crazy faces.

Timmy and Tyson.

Tyson made a pot holder wedding present for Gavin and Cadie, with their favorite colors. What a sweetie.

You Know You Are...

2011-11-21T20:37:00.001-08:00

...stuck, when you can't get down on your own after getting up there by yourself.

...hurt, when you can't open your black eye that you got from trying to get in the tree house.

...a really good shopper, when old ladies want to give you a DOLLAR each for having such good manners and smiling so nicely.

...in trouble when Mom and Dad find this under their bed and you with a mouth full of cookies.

...still so sweet and innocent when you write letters to Santa and give him some of your Halloween candy. ...so lucky when your siblings are your BEST FRIENDS!!!
...getting a pack of Hubba Bubba gum, when you memorize the scripture of the month. Way to go Lucas for doing it first in our family! ...loving Cub Scouts when you can have so much fun with your friends and family...

and you move up ranks to a Webelos! We're so proud of you Tyson. Way to go!

...super tired, when you fall asleep while standing up! Poor, sweet Nellie!

Parties and Events

2011-10-28T23:58:00.000-07:00

Wilson had his 6 years old B'day party and it was lots of fun.

Wilson and his buddy, Gordon

Gotta Catch 'em All! Pokemon cake.

Me and my two crazies!

Tyson had his 10 years old B'day party. Here they are playing Dribble Dribble Drench, a water version of Duck Duck Goose. Everyone loved it.

Here's the crew.

Tyson wanted to have a chocolate fountain, instead of a cake, with all the yummy things to dip in it like bananas, pretzels, strawberries, marshmallows, apples, etc. Messy, but worth it.

We decided 3 months ago to visit the Phoenix Temple site every three months to see the progress...well, nothing changed. However, the week after we visited it, the Temple building permit got approved so hopefully when we come in three more months something will be happening. We are so excited. Uncle Bubba and Aunt Nan gave Wilson an air hockey table for his b'day. We've really enjoyed it. Thanks guys.

Our First Family Hike

2011-10-28T23:06:00.000-07:00

We just had our first family hike with all of us. It was a lot of fun. We'll be doing it again soon. I wasn't expecting it to last very long or turn out as well as it did, but, HURRAY! Don't let this next picture fool you...Aaron and I were both carrying Jonah and Nellie almost the entire time.

We made it to the top!

What? We have to go down it now? Why the heck did we climb it then?

Lately, Jonah has been saying, "What the Heck?" somewhat frequently. We do not encourage this at all, but it sure is stinkin' funny. What the heck Dad?! hahaha

I LOVE MY FAMILY! THEY'RE THE BEST!Nellie wouldn't let go of that water bottle during almost the entire hike. What a silly girl.

Our September in ALL it's Glory

2011-09-27T19:36:00.000-07:00

We have Tyson's and Wilson's B'day is September. I wanted to do something different for their cake this year but didn't know what. Well, I just started making something, and doing this and that and who knows what. I guess we're calling it an alien. The "words" are 10 T (Tyson is 10) and W 6 (Wilson is 6) Think what you want, but they liked it and that's what counts. The cakes in the back are a triple decker UFO for Gavin, Mom and Cadie. We were celebrating their b'days too at the Family B'day Party. Hooray!

We did an obstacle course again. Truly, Truly, my FAVORITE activity. First you get three BIG SOAKING WET sponges and put them on your head and run on a line. (Dandi)

Dribble a soccer ball in and out of cones. (Daniel) Then you run around the jungle gym and slide on the slip n slide. (no pictures, it was already pretty dark out as you can see)

Then you two feet jump over 3 sets of cones. (Jonah)
(Dandi)

and run across the finish line.

Next we had a pie eating contest. We used the small microwaveable Banquet pies. Perfect!
Zanna, Laney, Heidi, Wilson, and Justin

Twinner, Lucas, Tyson, Twinner

(I can hardly tell the twins apart looking straight at them, certainly not in this picture.)

Lucas (Licking it) Tyson didn't really like the taste of his delicious apple delight.

Sara in all her berry glory!

Lucas- "I'm done"

Notice Heidi's face and the ready cup behind her. Heaven knows what was about to occur. Poor girl. Wilson smiling for moral support, I'm sure.

Laney actually can pull this look off! What a cutie.

Lilli, I think had a blast! That smiley face says it all. Aunt Dandi throws an great Party!!!

Madi actually has it all over her, it's just apple pie so you can't see it as well. Yeah Madi!

Wilson, had seen this Dragon stuffed with a sleeping bag animal at the store and really wanted it. So, he was super excited when Gram and Papa gave it to him.

Tyson got a pokemon book and the Black and White DS game he really wanted too, among lots of other great things. Thanks everyone.

Blowing of candles. One each.

Wilson and Tyson- We lit the marshmallow antennas on fire for them to blow out.

Wilson has had a loose tooth all month. The tooth coming in slowing was pushing it sideways and forward. Quite the snaggle-tooth.

We went to Fred and Elisa's for Labor day. Thanks for letting us come.

We had FHE with them on cooperation, I think that's what it was. Here's the activity...

Sean and Lucas

The almost Hygienist Aunt Elisa attempted to pull out his tooth, but Wilson was too reluctant to let it happen.

They took us to their county Fair. Lots of fun.

Look at those two turkeys!

Yummy Indian Fry Bread.

Fun magic and circus tricks. Jonah started Gymnastics this month too. So far, he's having a blast! (Shoot, I just realized I missed it today! What a nerd!)

Rain Gutter Regatta and Nellie

2011-08-27T10:20:00.000-07:00

Call it girly stuff or don't, but she is doing the cutest things lately, one of which is always putting shoes on. I love it.
Tyson got 1st and Lucas got 2nd in the Cub Scout Rain Gutter Regatta. That's an event where they race their little sail boats they made by blowing on them to the finish line on a water filled rain gutter. Great job guys. I don't have picture of the even cause I was home with sick kids. (Wilson ended up having strep) Aaron had a work meeting. That stinks that we missed it but they still had a blast. I love the Cub Scout program!!!

For those of you who have never actually seen Nellie smile because of her constant seriousness, here's a picture for you!

I love being a Mom!!!!

Date Nights with the Kids

2011-08-27T10:03:00.000-07:00

All summer long, Aaron and I have be taking our kids out on dates, one on one. Golfing, bowling, shopping, movies, and the latest, a play. Tyson and I went to go see "Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat," one of my favorite plays. I've seen it about 7 times at different theaters.

Several of my family members also went.

Papa, Gram and Tyson

Tyson, Todd, Jessi, Cadie, and Gavin
Me and Tyson

He ended up getting picked to draw the raffle ticket for the night. What fun!

Tyson is such a sweet boy. He has a very tender spirit and truly cares about others so much. He is a huge blessing in our home. I have a ton of fun hanging out with him and he has such a great sense of humor. He had all of us adults cracking up several times that night. I love you Tyson and I love being your mom.

First Days of School

2011-08-27T09:47:00.000-07:00

The 3rd Grader

The 4th Grader
The Kindergartener

Wilson and Heidi are at the same school. It's really fun. They get to play during recess everyday.

More Wright Cousin Adventures

2011-08-08T20:28:00.000-07:00

Pretty much, we've been having too much fun over the past few weeks with Aaron's family. We've been here, there and everywhere. I'm grateful my kids are such great friends with their cousins.

Jonah was loving those Barbies.

Tyson and Sydney

Lucas

Man, I love goggles. They're so funny.

Brenden

Jonah, Brady, Tyson, Sophie, Lucas, Wilson, Sydney in the hot tub.

Sarah

Getting $0.50 ice creams at Uncle Fred's work. Yum.

Jonah wanted to play Duck Duck Goose and everyone joined in.

An hour at the splash pad

Tyson Wilson and Parker

Lucas

We weren't planning on going to a splash pad so Nellie is wearing a dress. Oh-well.

Jonah

Parker and Nellie became good friend during his visit to AZ.

Cabela's-like a zoo, except you can always see the animals cause their not hiding in the bushes...well and they're not alive.

This is my favorite part.

Aaron rounded everyone up to go camping. Jonah was sick so I stayed home with him and Nellie.

Here are 4 of Aaron's sisters, Mom and two nieces

Kristin, Bethany, Arleen, Delaynie, Elisa, Megan, Sarah

Brenden

Wilson plus G'ma Wright's sweater equals total awesomeness

When you are just dying for...

2011-08-08T20:23:00.000-07:00

some donuts, get out your telescoping marshmallow roasting wand. Climb up on a drawer, then the counter, and REACH with all your might.

PS Teach your baby sister to do it too.

Fossil Creek-Wright's Style

2011-08-04T11:34:00.000-07:00

It was so beautiful and the weather was perfect.

Jonah was scared to death to jump in from the rocks. He held on to Aaron so tightly...

...even when in the water

Megan taking the plunge

Tyson

Tyson doing some sort of pre-jump dance.

Lucas

Brenden and Sarah

Wilson was a bit cold.Nellie didn't really care for it at first either.

One of the cousins tried going down the shallow-ish, very rocky, fast, knock your head incredibly hard on a rock, kind of rapids. It was a little touch and go there for a minute but alas, no injuries.

I think we've finally converted most of the cousins to eating ramen crunchy. A favorite of mine growing up, and now my kids'.

Lucas

Sean

Megan and Delaynie

Tyson

Elisa

We caught some fish too.

Aaron is the one who headed this all up. He did a great job.

Nellie

I'll admit it. I was really scared to jump. I'd never done it before and I didn't think I'd be able to jump far enough out to clear the rocks below. I watched a few of the cousins go first and figured if they could, I could. It was fun. I survived.

I think we'll definitely go here again.

Gavin is Engaged and other stuff

2011-07-26T10:17:00.000-07:00

I love my mom! I think she is so pretty! I hope I can stay as young looking as she has.

Steph, Wendy, Cadie (Gavin's girl), Gavin, Darby (my cousin), Tim, and Josh

We got sunglasses. Can you tell which one is Nellie? I love this picture.

Pioneer Day Breakfast

2011-07-26T10:13:00.000-07:00

The stick pull. One missionary versus 4 boys. Tyson and Wilson are on the right end.

The kids won!
Aaron and Jonah playing pingpong.

Handsome Tyson

Pie eating contest. This was so fun. I think we're going to do it for one of our family b'day parties soon.Lucas vs Elder

Helen Wright

2011-07-26T10:02:00.000-07:00

Aaron's amazing Grandma just recently passed away. She was almost 94 years old. What a blessing it was to know her and for my children to know her. She was so active and involved her whole life. We'll miss you Great Grandma Wright.

Some of Aaron's cousins.

Some of Aaron's siblings and spouses

more cousins

A table full of pictures of Helen throughout her life.

The tallest child is Aaron's dad.

Grandma Helen is in the middle in blue. This is a picture of her, her children, and grandchildren.

Aaron is the little boy in his mom's arms on the left side. Standing above is his dad and three sisters next to him.

Steve, Raymond, Ron (Aaron's dad), Arleen (Aaron's mom),

Sandy (Aaron's g'pa), Darla, Helen (Aaron's g'ma)

Helen and her grandkids. Aaron is in the plaid overall shorts.

Aaron's dad, Ron

The Middle of July

2011-07-26T09:23:00.000-07:00

"Howdy partner!" Jonah's new saying. Check out his huge bump on his head. He fell off of a slide that was only about 2 feet high, but his feet got caught on it while his head hit the pool deck first. Ouch. The picture doesn't do it justice at all.I put mascara on Nellie for the first time, during church, to help her be quiet. It worked.

We went to visit the site where they are building the new Temple near us. We are so excited. We've decided to go there every few months to see the progress.

Harry Potter Midnight Showing

2011-07-15T14:23:00.000-07:00

Prepare to be amazed!! Here are a bunch of pictures of me and my family. We are mostly all really sleep deprived, giddy and excited to get out together. In a word...totally, incredibly, undeniably SILLY!

Waiting in line

Richard, Jessi, Gavin, Cadie, and Stephanie

Ben and Aaron-definitely more serious side of the aisle

Jessi and I were laughing it up with the concession stand lady, having a good time. When we got back to our seats, she found us and said, "You forgot to pay." She said it took her a minute to realize it too. Funny.

Jessi and I were lamenting we hadn't dressed up in Harry Potter attire, so naturally we had to use mascara in my purse to draw on our lightning bolt scars.

Then, we thought it would be good of us to partake in the role playing of some of the Potter characters. Can you guess any of them? Not likely.

The end of an era. The end of a really fun night.

It's finally official!

2011-07-15T14:13:00.001-07:00

She's a girl with pig tails.

They might look silly to you, but to me it's the cutest thing in the world.

Out Back

2011-07-15T14:05:00.000-07:00

Cooling off after a morning of yard work.

a little too much water on a day of babysitting cousins...

Jonah was the victim here.

4th of July Weekend

2011-07-13T21:03:00.000-07:00

Before church--Yes, the flower is humongous, but it matched and didn't even make it to church anyway cause she kept pulling it off. She's so happy about how cute she is, can you tell?
We went to Fred and Elisa's (Aaron's sister) to get out of the heat. It was a high of about 79 degrees and even sprinkled a bit. Gorgeous. Thanks for letting us come play!

Aaron and the kids doing "Just Dance 2" on the Wii. It was so fun.

A fun game of wiffle ball.

Tyson

Wilson

Fred

Then we moved on to Tunnel-Freeze Tag.

Wilson 5 3/4 years old.Nellie with Popsicle face. She's 19 months now.

I had to add this picture. My friend through me a Twilight themed baby shower before Nellie was born and another friend make her this onsie. It's a paw print and it says below it, "Imprinted." It needed a picture cause it's funny. (If you haven't read the Twilight series, disregard. You won't understand.)

Red Rover, Red Rover with only one injury. Amazing.

Sydney, Sean, Fred, Tyson, Elisa, Wilson, and Sophie

Tyson 9 3/4 years old

Lucas-8 years old

Sara, Wilson, Lucas, Sophie, Sydney, Tyson, Sean, Jonah and Nellie

We had a fantastic 4th of July weekend. Thanks Fred, Elisa and Family!

July Family B'day Party

2011-07-13T20:48:00.001-07:00

We always love celebrating Ryan's birthday cause we have a huge family swimming party. Thanks Ben and Nan. We also celebrated June b'day this time too...Papa and Nan.

Sara, Lucas, Tim, Josh and Gavin

People looking--Heidi, Madi, Wilson, Justin, Sara and Lucas
Nellie with her usual serious face and the supermodel Nan in the background.

Aaron and Jonah swimmin' it up.

Papa opening his presents. He's 30 years old with 35 years experience.

...and Sam, the oldest cousin on my side. He's so amazing and an incredible example to my kids. I love this picture of him.

Viva Las Vegas

2011-06-29T13:14:00.000-07:00

Aaron's work had a contest last fall and his team won. So for their prize, they got an all expense paid trip to Vegas for the weekend with their spouses. Here are a bunch of pictures of our fun get away.

Hoover Dam from the new bridge looking down. We parked and walk on the sidewalk. It kind of made me feel dizzy. It's a long way down. It was fun though.

We stayed at the Luxor. Because of it's pyramid shape, the elevator went diagonally to take us to our 21st story room. 4 stories of M&M World.

Look at all the different colored m&m's you could buy. Yum.

The Bellagio water show. We watched this several times. It goes every 15 minutes and is a different song and dance every time. I really liked watching it.

The Bellagio was a really classy hotel. They had this impressive flower garden display inside the hotel. These are glass flowers hanging from the ceiling in the foyer.

That is a stream of water going over Aaron. Some kid touched it and got the lady in the black and white all wet. I don't think she was very happy.

Cool flower "painting"

The bear's vest is all flowers and I think the bear was dried twiggy flowers.

MGM Grand. They have something like 50 lions at a reserve and two at a time are brought to the hotel daily. The glass is sound proof. They can only hear the sound of their waterfall inside.

We spent part of Saturday at the Circus Circus "Adventure Dome," the "only indoor theme park in the world that has a roller coaster with two loops and two corkscrews." end quote.

Disko was fun

ready to roll

water ride

bumper cars

New York New York

We talked about riding that coaster too but ran out of time.

The front of the Luxor

Aaron's work team.

It was fun to get away, just the two of us. It had been a while. I sure missed our kids though.
Nellie had just been diagnosed with strep the day before we left. Thanks to our family who helped with the kids.

June 2011--in a nutshell

2011-06-26T22:27:00.000-07:00

For Papa's 65th birthday, we took him a ton of oreos and some cards. Bubba and Nan have a pool that we go swimming at almost every weekday morning. Nan and I catch up on the previous day adventures and the kids get to have a blast playing together.

Jonah mostly doesn't get in the pool. He'd rather walk around or lay on the cement.
Tyson in mid air.

Madi, (Tyson is hidden) and Lucas taking the plunge. I told them all to dive...I think we need to work on their form!

Madi, Lucas, Tyson, Wilson

Goggles really are the best.

Cousin Tucker was in town. Aaron, Tucker and the boys all went camping together. Aaron and Tucker went golfing and we played lots of card games together. Nellie was quite taken by the Handsome Tucker. She would crawl up in his lap all the time.

Father's day

Nothing says I love you more than telescoping marshmallow/hot dog roasting wands! Right?

My hubby is really, truly amazing. I love him. Just the other day, I was thinking about how EVERY NIGHT he gets my two pillows situated for me the way I like them before I get in bed. What a sweetie. I think he really likes me a lot.

Aaron's wallet got stolen a few months ago and he's been using a rubber band to hold his money/cards together since then. So, we got him a new wallet/money clip thing that we've just found out erases hotel key magnetic strips when you put them on the magnet part. Good times were had by all who were trying to get into the hotel room. Cousin fun at Gram and Papa's All the dads playing "around the world" on the basketball court.

Aaron

Lots of homemade Salsa with some tomatoes from a friend's garden. Then, we realized we didn't have any tortilla chips. We made do with some tostada shells until we hit the grocery store. Nellie was going to town on the salsa.

Flour

2011-06-02T12:48:00.000-07:00

As I've posted many things about Jonah getting into my sugar and flour, mixing them together, pouring them all about my kitchen, finding his cars in it, etc.....It should not have caught me by surprise to see this when I walked into my kitchen the other day. I tried really hard to not let him see me laugh, even though I really wasn't happy about him doing it. I hope his kids are as adventurous as he is. I love you Jonah! Who wants homemade cookies from our house?

Contests...a family party

2011-06-02T11:47:00.000-07:00

We hosted the May family b'day party. We decided to have lots of contest to make it extra memorable. We started off with tetherball, but you could only use your elbows to hit the ball.

Standing Broad Jump-Todd was the winner.

Richard

TysonJonah
Gram was explaining the rules.

Lucas

Hand Stand Walking Contest-Winner was Dandi
This was my second try. The record was where that bat is lying on the ground. It's harder than I thought it would be to just get a few feet from the starting line.

Lucas
Wilson

Aaron

Last was the water drinking contest. You have 10 seconds to drink as much as you can. We had a winner of each heat and didn't want to do a contest of the winners because I didn't want anyone to get sick from drinking so much. It was a little unfair because the kids just jumped in when they were ready to compete and you 4yr olds going against teenagers. Next time we'll do it by age.

Richard won. I did pretty good for a girl.

Drew won this one.

Nate won.

Josh won.Birthday's this month were Jessi, Sara, and Laney.

It was a fun party.

Last Days of School

2011-06-01T14:11:00.000-07:00

Wilson's Joy School class plus Jonah and Kate.

Joy school water party.

Lucas was in a class play. He got the part of Prince Charming. He did a great job and was so cute. Not too many boys his age would be brave enough to hold a girls hand.

Putting on Cinderella's glass slipper.

Fine Arts Night

Lucas with two of his best friends.

Tyson did a report on Nebraska up top.

The second graders got to perform several songs that night. Lucas had a blast a did a great job with the choreography. (The pictures didn't turn out very well for that.)

Our kids sure have a knack for hula hooping.

Nel

Bobcat

2011-06-01T13:45:00.000-07:00

Now that Lucas is 8 he is in Cub Scouts. He just earned his Bobcat badge and is so excited about scouts. He gets his book out everyday to work on passing off more things. We're having a lot of fun doing it together. Here he is at our Pack Meeting Water Party.

When they earn their Bobcat, they get a pin to give to there parents. Here he's pinning it on my shirt.
Saying the Pledge.

We love you Lucas!

first week of summer

2011-05-29T22:23:00.000-07:00

Our first week of summer has been busy and fun. We've had a few of the boys' friends over, I learned how to can/bottle my own chicken (that's going to be soo fun), helped my friend with a garage sale, baby shower, Aaron played golf, soccer twice, he took the kids to Kung Fu Panda II, took me to see Thor, went swimming, church, took a trip to celebrate Aaron's dad's birthday , a family b'day party, cousins spent the night, park, more friends, two sick kids, and some reading of the Narnian "The Silver Chair" book with the kids. We're excited for the movie to come out in December. It's strange how sometimes I feel like I've been incredibly busy but when asked, I can't think of what I've done. Well, today, I remembered. It's going to be a good summer.

Grandpa with our crazy bunch of rag-a-muffins.

Teacher's gifts

2011-05-21T23:20:00.001-07:00

I made our teacher's gifts this year. It was a lot of fun. I posted the how to's on the craft blog I do with my sisters, Which Craft. My boys are excited to give them to their teachers on Monday.

That's FAIRY nice

2011-05-17T21:31:00.000-07:00

For Mother's day, we made flowers with all the grandkids' pictures as the centers. Nellie and Tori we made into the Garden Fairies instead. We stuck them in her brand new front garden as a surprise for her.

Naturally, I had to take a million pictures of Nellie as a fairy so I could get a good one.

Stuck in the Springs

all pooped out...

It's such a delight to play dress up with my "live doll" as Aaron puts it. I love you Nellie-girl!

Easter Egg Huntin'

2011-05-17T20:02:00.000-07:00

Every year, we go to Grandma and Grandpa Wright's for a fantastic Easter Egg Hunt. Here are some of our memories from that day.

Zoe, Sydney, Sean and Wilson

(Cousins) Wilson and Tyson

(this is what we call the "cheeky cheeky" pose)

Mick, Delaynie, and Megan (Aaron's sister)

Nelllie-16months
Tyson was being a huge helper in getting her to look at the camera and smile. He is tickling her in this picture. What a great older brother he is, truly.

Awww!
Our neighbor, Bethany came with us too.
2 1/2 years old Jonah-need I say more?

Cousin Sean

Todd and Jessi (my sister)

Lilli, Wilson, Tyson, Heidi Cousins Grandma rented a Cotton Candy machine. I think I ate more than all the kids combined. One of my VERY FAVORITE THINGS in the world. I used to put it on all my wish lists growing up...rent a big cotton candy machine for a day. Thanks Arleen for making all my dreams come true.This is so typical of Tyson...holding his pants up while he runs. He and Lucas share clothes and all the adjustable waists are set for Lucas' waist.

Megan and Elisa (2 of Aaron's sisters)

Delaynie- "That didn't taste very good." What a cutie!

Lukey Duke

All I can say about this picture is "I'm Jealous!"We love going to Grandma's. Thanks to everyone for making it a great Easter Weekend!

It must be documented...

2011-04-28T22:39:00.000-07:00

So...when I moved into my house almost 4 years ago, there were three men in our ward (church) that were named Aaron. All very different looking, but all Aarons. Their wives names were Dandi, Sandy, and Randi. Confusing enough. Then you add, that Sandy and Dandi both had long blonde hair, three blonde little boys about the same ages and Sandy and Dandi have similar figures. Needless to say, people would get us confused. I even had her husband come up behind me to talk to me once, thinking I was her. Also, Sandy and I have these red dresses that are almost identical. Once, I was supposed to say the opening prayer in church and I was late. She went up without missing a beat and said the prayer for me. I don't think anyone even knew the difference. Thanks Sandy. Well, to continue the story, we both ended up having another little baby boy. (I've since had a girl too, our one difference.) She is currently the YW President and I am the Primary President. I get phone calls for her, she gets phone calls for me. Sometimes we correct the person and direct them to other, sometimes we just answer the questions and no one's the wiser. Wouldn't want someone to feel awkward, would we? Anyway, I just needed to write this all down somewhere because it's stinkin' hilarious to me. Here's to Sandy and Aaron and Dandi and Aaron!

Lucas' Eighth Birthday

2011-04-26T11:00:00.000-07:00

Here are some of his cousins and friends that came...lined up to play pin the tail on the Picachu.

Lucas and his pinata

If you can tell me what this is on his cake, I'll give you a million dollars...not really, but do you know?

I love you Lukey-Duke!

Field Day

2011-04-26T10:53:00.000-07:00

Tyson and Lucas had their field days at school last week. Tyson got second place for long jump and Lucas got first for the obstacle course! Yeah! They had a lot of fun and I'm proud of them for trying their hardest!

Birthday Boy Aaron

2011-04-07T15:05:00.000-07:00

Aaron started out the morning with a beautiful toothpick Happy Birthday note on the counter. Then, found a fantastically orange cone decorated car with shaving cream. He had a few strangers wish him a "happy birthday" throughout his work day.

Tyson, Nellie, Aaron, Wilson, Jonah, and Lucas

Then off to Krispie Kreme for Aaron's free dozen B'day donuts! Yeah!

Everyone watching the donuts being made. So fun!

I love my Aaron! He is such a wonderful husband and terrific father to our children. I'm so grateful he's mine.

Japan Relief Fundraiser

2011-04-07T13:34:00.000-07:00

I really wanted to get my kids more involved in helping others, especially those suffering in Japan, so...with tons of help from family, I have started a 3 week fundraiser for the Relief Efforts in Japan and other Humanitarian Causes. It's a coin fundraiser, meaning we're just asking for people to donate their spare change that they may have around the house. We started on Tuesday and already have $300 towards our goal. If you'd like to help out or donate. Let me know. For more info visit changefromtheheart.blogspot.com. We will have a drawing at the end for all of our donors. So far, our prizes are $25.00 gift cards from Olive Garden (Italian) and Hal O-Peno's (Mexican) restaurants. We are really excited to be raising this money to help other people around the world. 100% of all donations will be donated to the LDS Humanitarian Fund where 100% goes to help others..

Girls just wanna have fun!

2011-03-25T12:09:00.000-07:00

Nellie-Literally dragging her heels, not wanting to get all pretty for church. But like it or not, she is adorable! Thanks to Auntie Bethany for the cute skirt and shoes. We love them!
Apparently, Beauty is Pain.

There's a smile.

Her Marilyn Monroe "skirt blowing up" pose.

I LOVE this pictures....I LOVE this GIRL!

White Stuff called Snow

2011-03-25T11:18:00.000-07:00

We went to visit Fred and Elisa (Aaron's sister) and their kids and had a great time. It wasn't too cold out and there was still enough snow to have lots of fun.

Nellie eating her first snow. I'm sure it was sanitary.

Jonah just got done jumping on the tramp with a big lump of snow.

That looks so cold to me.

Wilson, Sydney and Nellie

Tyson's trying to get frost bite.

Nellie was way bundled up, getting ready to go sledding. She was not too happy that she could barely move so we ended up taking off the jacket. It wasn't very cold anyway.

Several years ago, some friends gave us some very 80's snow/ski clothes. Through the years, they've helped keep the kids warm and we are grateful. This one ended up being too small and TOO COOL for this year! Wilson loved posing in it, but ultimately, we ENCOURAGED him to change into something else.

Aaron and Wilson sledding down the hill. I love this sledding spot. It's perfect for our kids.

Lucas getting ready.

Jonah-sporting his neato outfit. What a doll! I love that sun spot!

They did end up having one ice-ball fight. Those end in tears, not at all like soft snow-ball fights.

Tyson

Sean ended going down the wrong slope and hit some really BIG rocks at the bottom, flipping over a few times, and landing face down in a huge puddle of melted snow. Aaron ran over and rescued him. Luckily, he was not hurt. With Sean, there's always an adventure close by!

A Rewarding, Awarding 30th Birthday

2011-03-04T15:11:00.000-08:00

Yes, I am now 30 years old. It was nearly painless, like giving child birth. Just kidding. It really wasn't a big deal at all. I got lots of great things from wonderful friends and family.
Started the day with our free Krispie Kreme Donuts and that evening Aaron's sister, Elisa, and husband, Fred, took us out to dinner to Tepanyaki. That's where they cook your food right there at your table. Sooo yummy and a really fun time. Thanks guys. One of my favorite presents was this...
Nothing says "I love you" like syrup spray painted gold! Thanks everyone for everything! I have the best friends and family!

Birthdays and Betrothals

2011-02-19T16:29:00.000-08:00

They say betrothals have a higher marriage success rate,and it worked for Sleeping Beauty and Prince Phillip, so we're giving it a go. Here's the future Mrs. Jonah Wright...Aubrey. Yes, she's a little taller, but Jonah still has time to grow. They are so cute together and are best buddies.

See how excited she is?

See how excited he is?

They're balancing each other out already.

And now, Jonah's 3rd Birthday. We started off the day making him a crown. Then off to Krispy Kreme's to get his FREE Dozen donuts.

Nellie didn't care for the hot, fresh donuts.

Then we went to visit Gram at the LDS Mission Office that she and my dad are serving a missions at.

Grandma Wright came over and gave Jonah a really fun present. I didn't get pictures of that.

Then Jonah's Birthday dinner...he wanted pancakes.

Jonah has just recently turned into a little boy instead of a baby. He's such a joy to have in our home. Yes, he's busy, and sometime too busy, but it gives us good memories to laugh at later on. We love you Jonah Ronah!

Nellie's First Valentine

2011-02-11T11:08:00.000-08:00

So, I thought that girls were perfect angels. I've always heard about how they don't do all the crazy-get into everthing-things that boys do. Wrong-o Bong-o! Day after day she takes everything out of this drawer and sits in it. She's figured out how to get pass the child lock on it.

Cabinets and drawers are sort of like princess castles, right? Fun hideouts, nevertheless.

Nellie's first Valentine. I'm not so sure I approve. Aaron said, "Wow!" When he saw it. What do you think? It's funny how you get that protective feeling for girls that you don't get, not quite the same way anyway, with boys.

2nd Place Ribbon

2011-01-25T20:22:00.000-08:00

Well, Tyson had his scout's pinewood derby tonight. Aaron helped him make his car again. The experience was a LOT different than last year's funny experience. It was a lot of fun...you know, Jonah bringing toys into the cultural hall from the nursery, Aaron helping boys out with the races and their cars (he's the Webelos leader), Lucas bumming pretzels off some kids (we didn't eat dinner before) Wilson....Wilson....I'm not really sure what he was doing, Nellie-sweet girl-sat there in her stroller so sweetly most of the time while I was talking about "scouts" with my 2nd counselor (I just got called as the Primary President 2 days ago.)

Anyway, Tyson's car did AWESOME! He got second out of all the Bear cubs. Way to go buddy! He now gets to go to the Stake competition as one of the top three winners from our ward. He's really excited.

Hand-Stands

2011-01-18T13:23:00.000-08:00

Here's a bunch of pictures of our lovely hand-stand contests. I actually have a passion for doing handstands and am always up for having contests. The best one ever was probably when I was REALLY pregnant with Nellie. That, I'm sure, was funny to watch. Thanks Steph for posting the pictures.

Frousins

2011-01-17T06:38:00.000-08:00

It's been long decided that Nellie will have to find best friends in her cousins since she doesn't have sisters. The word frousin derived from cousin and friend. At times it has also turned into frousENEMY. Tori is full of excitement and sometimes let's it get the best of her...she beats up the 3 months older Nellie girl.

Here they are, the first time they actually got along all day.

I ended up getting hand-me-downs with matching out-fits. So natually they had to match.

Having a good laugh.

He loves me not, HE LOVES ME!!!

2011-01-15T22:04:00.000-08:00

So, for our 10th anniversary, my wonderful husband surprised me with 10 different bouquets of roses (one for each year). They were all very beautiful. We put them in several rooms of the house and everytime I'd walk in, I'd think, "Ahh, my husband is so sweet. I love him." Thanks Aaron for being the best husband in the world to me. I LOVE YOU!

Christmasy-ness

2011-01-15T20:52:00.000-08:00

Caroling through the halls of a nearby nursing home with the "Ely" gang. This was our first year doing it, Jessi arranged it all, and it was GREAT. It was a wonderful start to our Christmas eve.

The awesome lights nearish our house.

Nellie eating the graham crackers for our "gingerbread" houses we make every year with Gram Ely. Wilson

Lucas

Tyson and Gram

Christmas morning-before they can see the presents

a few of their gifts

Nothing like a ball! I love this kid, he is the cutest devil you've ever seen.

Nellie- "This is what I always wanted!" She is truly a delight!

The kids all draw a sibling's name to buy a gift for...Tyson had Nellie. He got her this crown with matching clip-on earrings.

The boys playing with some of the balloons Jonah got. He got two bags of them. He is quite fond of balloons.

Nellie- the month of wonderful heck

2011-01-14T08:50:00.000-08:00

Nellie turned a year in December. The poor girl was sooooo sick for several weeks. She had pneumonia, ear infections, a random 104 degree three day virus, another virus with ulcers all in her mouth. She is finally all better now but was sick through all the b'day/Christmas fun.

Aunt Bethany and Nellie have the same birthday. Here they are celebrating with yummy cupcakes. Nellie is really sick here.

Nellie all "geeked" out in her new skinny jeans and leopord print shirt. Thanks Bethany.

Feeding her cake to her brothers.

The whole gang.

Tree house......deck

2011-01-14T08:24:00.000-08:00

So my dearest husband decided to build a tree house for our kiddos. I was thinking a few 2x4 up in the tree somewhere for them to climb or sit on. His ideas were much grander. It's still not quite finished but here's what we have so far...

The cement stage

This was sooo fun. All the kids were excited to put their hands in the cement. Aaron later put lovey dovey hearts and "A+D" around another post. What a sweetie.

A good friend of ours, Joel, has help out ALOT. Thanks Joel.

The whole deck part is finished now, but we still have the railing to finish. There is also a fun slide attached to it. (Thanks Algers for donating it to us.)

Happy Halloween!

2010-11-01T23:29:00.000-07:00

Nellie's first Halloween--she was a flower fairy. Thanks for the adorable shoes Auntie Bethany and to Steph and Jessi for the help with her costume.

Jonah really wasn't into the costume thing, but was willing to wear it for candy.

Like father, like son...the cutest clown duo EVER! My husband is the best. He put on his costume, no questions asked. I didn't think he would, but he is always surprising me. I love you my dearest husband! You make that clown suit look GOOD!

Tyson-Avatar Aang (the last airbender), Jonah-clown, Wilson-viking, Nellie-Flower Fairy, Lucas-Ironman

Crocodile Tears

ENCHANTED ISLAND

2010-11-01T20:45:00.002-07:00

At Encanto Park they have a little amusement park called Enchanted Island. I remember going there as a child. Good times. Well, it's still there. Ben, my brother, told us about a special they were having one day, so we all went. We had a really fun time.

Aaron and Jonah on the "tea cups"

Justin, Wilson, Madi and Lucas on the not-so-scary roller coaster

My beautiful angel girl

Bubba and Justin on the parachute drop...ALMOST as scary as the "Tower of Terror"....but because you're afraid the whole thing's going to fall apart. LOL

"Ahhh! Ahhh! Ahhh!" That's a direct quote from "Kittens inspired by Kittens" Thanks Reese's. My life is forever changed.

Yes, we match on purpose.

Yee Haw!

It's chopper time

Tongcle=Tongue+Uncle

2010-10-07T08:59:00.000-07:00

Want free babysitting? Put this on for your kids. What you might ask is Jonah watching?

Gavin was being silly and I told him I was going to take a picture. Well, I did. And then decided it needed to be videoed without him knowing. My kids will just watch it over and over, laughing. Thanks Gavo for being such a good babysitter and uncle.

Happy #5 Wilson!

2010-10-05T20:33:00.000-07:00

Wilson's birthday was celebrated over two days. The first day we had his dinner of choice. Hotdogs, spanish rice and applesauce. Because of the lack of cake that day, we let him blow out his hotdog, complete with broken center candle! He got his awesome crown from preschool that morning.

The second day of celebration involved going to Walmart and decorating cupcakes, oreo stacking contest and lots of other activities.

Our family with a huge Oreo that Jonah was deathly afraid of.

Jessi made the cake. I took a nice corner cut out of it when it was hot out of the oven, but never fear. I filled the hole in with lots of frosting so you can't tell.

Yum!

True Love

2010-10-05T20:02:00.000-07:00

Jonah and Nellie...Love at First Sight. He is simply taken by her. She's not so sure about him though. My Buddy, My Buddy, My Buddy, My Buddy....My Buddy and Me.

This looks Fun!

Uh, Uh, Uh?

Help please?

Snuggle buddies. Snug as two bugs in a rug!

Ahhhh!

Just put it on the tab

2010-09-30T14:52:00.000-07:00

Wilson's been begging me to let him buy Pokemon cards on the computer with his money. I have no idea where he got the idea from, but I decided to let him browse Amazon while I did some laundry. Not something I've ever done before. I showed him how to add them to the "cart", so he wouldn't call for me every ten seconds to look at a new card and that way I could look at the ones he wanted with him later.

Well, I came back after a little while to look at the cards he wanted and then saw the SUBTOTAL.

subtotal = $1,125.26

He only had 85 items in his cart!

A little bit of everything

2010-09-18T11:38:00.000-07:00

It was my little brother Gavin's Birthday and we all went out to dinner at Red Robin's. I LOVE their fries with ranch. It just so happens it was the one by Yogurtland. I usually go to Yogurtland and then to Red Robin afterwards. It was almost a tragedy to do it in reverse order. Yes, I did go to Yogurtland though, you need not fear. I've now become a pistachio yogurt with sliced almonds and Hershey's syrup fan. Too good.

My parents and siblings.

Nellie is in love with the mirrored image of herself. She'll play for a long time with that baby in there.

9 months old-Nellie

Wilson and friends, Addi and Kate planting a branch Aaron trimmed off our tree the day before.

Aaron making sugar cookies with the boys.

My Dad and his friend made this happen in my kitchen and I absolutely love it. Thanks Dad and Brother Hayes.

Scary before picture.

You should be looking and the lighting, not the dirty dishes.

During.

After.

Pictures never do anything justice. It's wonderful though and really brightens up my kitchen.

Wilson lost his first tooth a few days before he turned 5yrs.

Water we doing?

2010-08-31T22:56:00.000-07:00

Our monthly Family B'day Party for August was in my parents' backyard. It was Chinese Potluck, YUMMY, and a water party with lots of games. A good time was had by all.

We started off with mini cupcake sized ice cubes that I froze pennies in. The first one to melt the penny out, wins. I forget who won.

Second, the OBSTACLE COURSE...

First, run around the bars.

(My Dad put those up for me many years ago when I was in gymnastics so I could practice at home. I love you Dad!)

Second, bruise a few body parts on the Slip'n'Slide.

Third, go around the pool 1, 1 1 /2, or 2 times, depending on how confused you are.

(Sammy Style)

(Granny Style, Love ya Mom!)

Fourth, Run across to the Jungle Gym...

Go Lukey Luke!

...while holding your swim suit up to prevent indecent exposure.

(Tyson does this allllllllll the time with all his shorts cause he's so thin and doesn't want to wear a belt or tighten the elastic thingy in side the pants) Silly boy!

Run around the jungle gym once and off to the finish line.

And your done! Yea Daniel.

Some of our friends, Sara and Joel, came to make sure everything was on the up an up.

Next game was "Squirt Bottle Barber." Lather up, put on goggles and the kids get to squirt you over and over in the face, mouth, ears, wherever, until they get all the shaving cream off.

Uncle Richard ready to go!

Squirt Squirt Squirt

Dribble, Dribble, Drench!

Basically, Duck, Duck, Goose with a cup of water. Anything to stay cool in the summer heat.

Timmy didn't catch me, incase you were wondering.

Just "wading" around for some more fun!

...But the Kids had a Ton of Fun!

2010-08-18T10:38:00.000-07:00

Friday morning about 9:00, my brother Ben calls me up and asks if I want to go camping that night. (Ben brought 3 of his kids.) Sounds fun! Aaron already had plans on Saturday, but I decided to take all the kids and go anyway. My sister, Jessi, came husband-less also with her 4 kids. (Ben's wife couldn't come either.)

We end up leaving over an hour late because my mother, who was going to babysitting Ben's 1yr, had to go help someone with car trouble. Once on the road it took much longer to get to the campsite because of horrible traffic. We finally made it there and it was dark already. Time to set up camp and relax?

Nellie and Tori just chillin'.

Oh my, look at the millions and millions of gnats flying around by the lights. I'm not kidding, we're talking one-of-the-plagues-of-Egypt bad. The camp ranger said, "Ya, the gnats are attacking, must be from all the rain lately, but don't worry, they only live for a few hours." There's an end in sight. After scouring the land for fire wood, Ben setting up the tent in the dark (we don't want lights on, it attracts the masses of gnats), a few bumps and bruises on kids from tripping on a dang rock in the ground, and lots of glow sticks to keep the kiddos happy, we finally started settling down. It's around 10:00 now I think.

Lucas

Lucas, Tyson, Lilli

The kids start falling asleep one by one while watching the fire glow. Then, Jessi, Ben and I stay up talking and roasting marshmallows until 1am. Good times.
Did I mention we were all sharing one tent that has "room dividers"? Ben and his 3 kids slept in one "room." Jessi, me, and our 2 babies slept in another room. And our other children, 7 total, slept in the third room.

Uncle Bubba, Justin and Madi

2am--Tyson yells out, "Jonah's throwing up!" Needless to say, I was up about 5 other times in the next 3 hours with Jonah. I finally just got up around 5:30am.
Long story short, we had marshmallows and poptarts for breakfast, Lilli accidentally threw Wilson's shoe in the river, (It's gone forever now) Lucas somehow lost his goggles in the river, (gone forever) and I was cranky on and off and had a headache.

Jonah-throwing rocks in the river.

Jessi and Tori

Wilson and a caterpillar. There were lots and lots of these by the river.

Oh, I forgot! As Lilli was showing me where she thought we might be able to find Wilson's other shoe, (about 1/4 mile down river) she told me, "This is where the sign said not to go because of poison ivy." Thanks Lilli for the after thought of info! So we were very careful not to touch any plants. All the sudden, I hear something in the bushes and turn around. Big, strong and tough, coming through the forest of bushes and trees, not on any trail, is Jonah. I guess he sort of followed us! Nice!
Lastly, we went to a quiet place on the river where we played, swam and hung out in the shade. That was a lot of fun!

Aside from all the crazy and unforeseen events, it was a blast. Honestly, it was a lot of fun but could have been better minus the lack of sleep, throwing up, and the dead gnat we found in my teeth that morning. eewww! THANKS BUBBA FOR THE ADVENTURE!

Last days of Summer....

2010-08-08T18:56:00.001-07:00

We spent the last few days of our summer up at G'ma and G'pa's house. I absolutely love it up there. It's gorgeous. Almost all of the cousins were there too. Good times.

Here's Wilson asleep at his dinner plate. I don't know what they were running on...it wasn't sleep, probably all the chips, soda and Popsicles.

By the way, I'm posting a million pictures. In case my house ever catches on fire, (knock on wood) I'll still have lots of photos to look at online.

My dear sweet Nellie and her toofies (teeth).

Nellie, Kristin, Aaron, Jonah, Brady, Megan and Delanie

Hey?

Age order, in a circle, staring at the sun reflecting clouds...does it get better than this? I submit to you that it does not!

All but the one month old cousin, the college cousin, and a few that live in England.

The sky was sooooo lovely that day.

Tyson.

Grrrrr...Sydney and Nellie.

Muscles nothin'!

Ron (my father in law)- an amazing man. He plays the trumpet in several bands, refs for all kinds of soccer games, flies planes every night (on the computer) but he really has flown planes too, computer genius, a million other things, and everybody loves him. Thanks Ron for letting my boys fly planes with you. They loved it!

Last, but certainly not least...They have a Bashas' up there, and I hit it about six times with coupons.

22 boxes poptarts, 12 mini wheats, 3 cinnabon (FREE), 6 Raisin Bran, 2 Rice Krispies, 4 Frosted Flakes, 5 Cocoa Krispies, 4 boxes NutriGrain bars, 2 pkgs Crackers= 60 items total for a grand total of $27.60!!

I got the Ragu for $0.50 each, not part of the other deal.

What are you up to?

2010-08-02T06:47:00.000-07:00

What are you up to? Swimming almost every morning at Uncle Bubba's and Aunt Nan's pool. Thanks so much Nan! It's been so fun and I almost have a tan.

Wilson-getting much better at swimming and can swim the width of the pool.

Tyson and Lucas are pros and love diving to the bottom.

Lucas loves his goggles!

What are you up to? I found Jonah outside watching the rain the other day, complete with blanket and milk cup. So sweet!

Yes, that's a rock in his hand. It will probably be in his mouth really soon. He loves putting rocks in his mouth. So strange. I've never had a kid do that.

I love that stage where they smile all funky.

What are you up to? Just hanging out in the closet?

No, I decided to tear down all my brothers' clothes and throw them on the ground!

Where the heck is my baby? I left her in the living room on the floor. I hear her down the hall. I go looking and can't find her. Then I hear her again in the boys room. But where is she? Aw! Under the bed. Now, how did she get there? After some questioning of children, I find that Tyson put her in the bedroom, but she must have rolled under the bed. Love that my kids move her around all the time. It keeps things exciting!

Home girl was just hungry and saw the food storage under the bed!

Full House

2010-07-28T10:09:00.000-07:00

My sister, Jessi, came over for dinner two Sundays ago. We had breakfast for dinner...my favorite! Then she went home. The next day, her air conditioner went out and the part they needed had to be mailed to the people fixing it. Well, a week and a day later, it was fixed. She and her family of 1 husband and 4 girls stayed with us during that time in our 3 bedroom house with already 7 people in it. 13 people total, 4 adults, 9 kids--9 year and younger. Although it was a full house, it was really fun. Swimming everyday, sleep-overs every night, multiply couponing trips to the store without kids cause they're at home with the other mom. Not to mention the extra slave children to clean the house and a friend to make dinner with each evening. Busy? Yes! Fun? Yes! Do it again next week for fun? Probably not?

Several cousins watching a movie.

My brother, Ben, came over one evening to do the P90X work out with Aaron. Tyson was kicking both their rears!!! LOL

Afterwards, some of the cousins wanted to work out too. Example, what a powerful thing. If we all took better care of ourselves, our kids would probably do the same. In case you aren't sure who's who....the boys are mine, girls are Jessi's.

Randomness

2010-07-12T08:21:00.000-07:00

Jonah, getting into the fridge and drinkin' it up.

(The white face paint is from customer appreciation day at Chick-Fil-A. If you dress up like a cow, you get a FREE MEAL. So, we did.) Notice, there is a child lock on the fridge, but it wasn't locked.

Nellie has two teeth on bottom and two poking through on the top. She is 7 months now and the sweetest little girl ever!

She sits up, rolls over and scoots a tiny bit.

The Gang

One of my all time favorite pictures of Jonah. So sad!

Nellie and Wilson

Funds for Fun

2010-07-12T07:53:00.000-07:00

For Aaron's father's day present we gave him a glass applesauce jar with paper on it. It may not sound exciting, but it was full of money too. My wonderful hubby loves to golf. It's a passion of his. He got a college scholarship from golfing. Anyway, he really wants new clubs now so I created a savings jar for him for fun. It has a place of honor on top our refrigerator. That's all.

Here are some other pictures from Father's Day. The boys all made Aaron pictures.

Who are you "HUNGRY" for?

2010-07-09T19:11:00.000-07:00

I just finished reading "Hunger Games" and "Catching Fire" by Suzanne Collins. They were really good books and I'm glad I read them. I'd recommend them to you all. I'm excited for the third one to come out.

Some people compare them to the "Twilight" series even though they are TOTALLY different...no vampires, just regular people, but they are the kind of books that you just can't put down. Without saying much of anything about the books, in these books there are two different male characters talked about, Peeta and Gale. A friend told me people have already made teams, "Team Peeta" and "Team Gale". Silly? Yes! (Obviously not too silly or I wouldn't even be commenting on it!) Which team would I be on? Probably "Team Peeta!" How about you? Some of the comments may contain spoilers, so don't read them if you haven't read the books yet.

Dance Magic Dance!

2010-06-16T12:58:00.000-07:00

What kind of magic spell's on you? Dance Magic Dance! --Labyrinth

Tyson's the main dancer in this one, Wilson's the back up dancer, and there dancing in the pink shirt is Lilli. Way cool dancing!

Jessi's dancing on the left side of the screen (pink shirt, holding baby) and Tyson and Wilson are the main course. Enjoy!

FAM*ELY

2010-06-11T19:44:00.001-07:00

To quickly explain...We went to Aspen Grove in Provo Canyon for our "family reunion" vacation. We were up there for a week and it was so fun. It's basically a glorified family camp on Mount Timpanogos with all kinds of sports, crafts, seminars, hikes, competions, a ropes course, and a million other things you can choose to do. Here are a ton of pictures from a GREAT week! Thanks Mom and Dad for making it happen.

Nellie's growing up incredibly fast and is the sweetest thing.
We wore our shirts for the Aspen Follies, a day of group games/activities/competitions. I think our family got 2nd place over all.
To quickly explain, Jessi designed the cutest shirts for us and a friend, Melanie Deymonaz (Key Embroidery), printed them for us. They say,

FAM*ELY

It takes more than matching shirts to make a team.

Just in case you don't get the wording, my maiden name is Ely, said like ee-lee. Do you get it? We're a family and our name is Ely. You put it together and it's FAM*ELY. Very clever Jessi! The boys wore blue and the girls wore pink.

Each family gets to come up with a cheer and do it before each event. The kids especially really got into it. If you want me to perform it for you sometime....I will! It's pretty impressive! It's the same cheer that Jessi and I were taught for girls camp a million years ago. LOL Object: Fill up the very holey trash can with the freshly melted glacier water the fastest.

Well, the more you have in it to start with the less time it takes to fill it up. I think it was Sam's 3 year being in the trash can. Tyson joined this year.

Everyone else tries to plug up the holes so that the water doesn't escape too quickly.

Conclusion: Everyone is cold and wet and laughing at the end of it.

Potato sack races!

Nellie's first time wearing a bathing suit. She has the cutest chubby legs in the whole world.

First time swimming and she loved it.

Cheese!

Tyson and Nate and Drew (No I can't tell you who is who unless I can see them up close. One of them has a little freckle on his cheek)

Lucas climbing the rock wall.

Aaron, Ben, Gavin, Sam, Todd and Rich played in the five on five basket ball competition.

They got 2nd place.

Western Day

Tyson skipped most of the other events and did the sword fighting the whole time.

Jonah on a very clever tire swing that looks like a horse.

"Cowboy Village" was a favorite place all week for the kids to go play.

Wilson, "What more could a boy want? A snowcone and a cow-girl holding candy corn."

1, 2, 3 Draw!

Lucas sword fighting

I made cute matching "W" (for Wright) shirts for Nellie and I. They were fun and easy to make.

I posted more pictures and instructions on our craft blog.

Crafty-Sister's Which Craft?

Todd, Jessi, Dad, Stephanie, Aaron and Nan watching a tennis match.

Gavin and Ben won 1st for Doubles Tennis. It's all because of the shirts.

Ben and Aaron ping-ponging it up.

Lillie, Madi, Heidi, Wilson, and Sam playing fus ball.

Jonah-quite the pool shark.

They had a closing show (Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat) starring all the kids 3-18 years old. They worked on it all week. Wilson and Justin were some of the silly corn that Pharoah dreamt about.

The last night there they had a family dance so we could show off all our moves.

yah-right

Wilson was our only son brave enough to dance with a girl, other than their mom.

He and Heidi were very cute to watch dance together.

To Jessi....Was it a great week? FAM*WRIGHT it was!!!!

Do you want to know?

2010-06-01T23:10:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, I hear Tyson talking to Lucas in their bedroom and Tyson says, "Do you want to know how to get a girl to love you?" Lucas of course says, "How?" Tyson- "You get some roses and put them on your car right here." (He got a remote control car for his birthday) "Then you drive them into the room she's in and she see them."

Pretty smart for eight years old, eh? How stinkin' cute would that be if you husband/boyfriend did that for you?

A Month Of Fun

2010-05-23T09:42:00.000-07:00

Aaron's sister, Aimee, and her family came from England to come visit for a few weeks. It was a blast.

Here's Tyson and Paddy.
It's so fun to have a cousin your same age.

Dandi and Nellie matching-ish outfits on a Sunday.

Dear Jonah is feeding Nellie cake batter. One of her first "real" foods.

Devil Jonah got on to my counter again and poured sugar everywhere. And people wonder why I tie my chairs to my table...

Aaron and Jonah on a bike ride.

Wilson just learned how to ride a bike without training wheels. So fun!

My mother's day present to help me gain a million pounds....my own personal popcorn popper. It's been a lot of fun already.

Tyson won the spelling bee in his class and got this as his prize. He is such a smart kiddo and he LOVES learning.

When the Neighbor's away...

2010-05-14T13:52:00.000-07:00

...the children will play....basketball on his hoop!

(He said he doesn't mind though.)

Lucas is taking a shot.

Jonah's Slam Dunk-a-roo

Look at Wilson, he's about to smack Lucas in the rear!

Tyson's shooting it.

Anthem Park

2010-05-14T13:30:00.001-07:00

We had a picnic at the park in Anthem with the Alger's and Young's and it was a blast.

They have 3 playground with huge slides, a splash pad and a fun little train you can ride.
Jonah chillin'

Wilson and Heidi

Sam, Wilson and Tyson

Lucas having a swingin' good time

PineWood Derby

2010-05-14T13:07:00.000-07:00

The Cub Scout pine wood derby was in January but I never posted about it. Aaron helped Tyson make the car and it was quite an experience. They cut it, sanded it, and Tyson picked the colors but when it came time to put the wheels on (of course, a few hours before the event)...that's where it gets funny. Aaron made sure the wheels were all perfect and then glue them in place really well. Then he realized the glue had leaked in to the actual wheels and 3 of them wouldn't turn anymore. He cut/ripped them out and he bought another kit (different brand) at Michael's. Then, he got the new wheels on and glued right this time and realized that the one original wheel (in the front) was not as big as the others and didn't touch the ground. It was a few minutes until it was time to leave and he didn't have time to change it. So he told Tyson to race his car backwards cause he wanted to have two good wheels in the front. It was so funny. Often, the leaders would tell Tyson to turn his car around because it was backwards and he'd have to explain that it was the way he wanted it. Well, for only having 3 good wheels and racing it backwards, Tyson's car did awesome. He only lost a very few races. Good times.