Family of 6

Christmas..VERY LONG!! (Really meant for me...)

2009-02-26T08:23:00.000-08:00

Pictures will be added...someday! :)

We always celebrate Christmas with my side of the family on Christmas Eve Eve- so the 23rd. Santa paid us a visit, we played the cereal game, ate great food and exchanged gifts! I love being at my mom's around the holidays! It was especially fun this year because my brother, Tag was here! He hasn't been here for the holidays in a very long time and my kids were SOOO excited to see him! He spoiled them ROTTEN for Christmas! Seriously, Santa-caliber gifts! My kids couldn't stop talking about it for weeks! In fact, when Jake and Carly were asked what they got for Christmas- it was almost always what Uncle Tag got them that they told, not what Santa had! :) It was great!

Christmas Eve we always spend with Kevin's ENTIRE family at his Grandma Barbara's house. We eat, play the candybar game, have a talent show and exchange gifts. My kids love it! This year, my nephew Clay wanted to sing a song and he convinced Halle and some others to help him. Halle sang great! I was so impressed! She's definitely my performer!

It's always a LONG day and I tried my best to get the kids to bed early, but let's face it~it's Christmas Eve, NOBODY wants to go to sleep! We gave the kids their usual pajamas and 2 new videos. We have a tradition from when I was little- that all the kids sleep together in the same room on Christmas Eve, so all my kids slept in Jake's old room and watched the movies.

Christmas morning, Scott came into our room around 4:30am and I told him to please try and wait until at least 6:30. Well, 6:30 am exactly I heard Scott almost yelling with excitement- waking up the other kids. Kevin & I sat in our room laughing that our almost 13 year old was the most excited! He told the kids that he'd snuck out and made sure that Santa had come! They were so excited!

I made them wait until Grandma Maureen, Aunt Tami & Uncle Tag arrived, so they could watch them open their gifts. (It was TORTURE I tell you!) :)

Carly got her Princess Scooter and Dora Bike, plus her favorite gift...DRESS UP CLOTHES!

Halle got her American Doll- Julie. (Kevin had her convinced that they only made 50 of these dolls and he didn't think she had been good enough to be in the top 50- HOW MEAN WAS THAT?! But, her face was priceless when she saw JULIE!)

Jake got a pump scooter and Baseball Bat, but his favorite thing was the new camoflauge bedding and bear skin rug!

Scott was my all time favorite this year.
All he wanted was a cell phone. I tried and tried to convince Kevin to let us get him one, but he kept saying no. On Dec. 20th I sat down with Scott and told him that he wasn't getting a cell phone for Christmas. He got all trembly with tears in his eyes and everything. I told him to hold out and maybe for his birthday- which was in February.
(Side note: I know some of you might wonder why I told him, but I didn't want the face that I saw to be seen on Christmas day. I wanted to "prepare" him so there wouldn't be any disappointment.)
Anyway, that night Kevin & I went to dinner and to do some last minute shopping, I told him about my coversation with Scott and literally pleaded with him to let us get it for him. He actually agreed (I did have to bring up the BB Gun Story~another story)- anyway, before he could change his mind, I called Tami (who is on our plan) to come to the cell phone store NOW and pick the phone she wanted. I picked up the new phone on Christmas Eve.
We hid the phone inside the Christmas Tree- "Santa" gave Scott some new clothes, so everyone thought we were all done-we even started cleaning up. All of the sudden, a phone rings...Kev asked my brother is that your phone, no he said- mom, is it yours...no she says- we all turned and looked at scott- he didn't move! He just had this blank look-he really hadn't "clued in".
Finally Kev said- hey Dumb---your phone is ringing! We all burst into laughter! Scott's face was absolutely priceless! He found the phone and gave each Kevin & I a hug all the while- telling us that he hated us and that we were so lame... with a HUGE smile on his face! You gotta love teenagers, huh?!

It was a great Christmas!

YW's

2009-02-26T08:21:00.000-08:00

I got called into Young Women's the first week of December! I am SOOO excited! I've loved it so far! The girls are great and the leaders are too! I love working with the youth of the church! I just can't believe how much they already know! It's inspiring to me!

New Camera!

2009-02-26T08:16:00.000-08:00

Actual date: December 15th, 2008
I seriously think that I've begged for a new camera, a nice digital SLR one, for more than a year! My friend Vanessa takes the BEST pictures with her Nikon and I've LOVED it! Well, for my birthday (& Christmas) my darling husband with- I'm sure great pressure and TONS of HELP from my mom & sister- finally bought me a Nikon D60! I coulnt' be happier! Well, I could-I would love to know how to use it! LOL! I was sooo surprised! I was camera happy before- but now it's just kind of ridiculous! :) (Just ask my kids!) Thanks again ALL of you! :)

Gingerbread House Contest

2009-02-26T08:00:00.000-08:00

So, we've started a tradition in the Lyman family of decorating Gingerbread houses for FHE. We usually do it the first Monday of the month- but with Halle's injury we had to wait until the 2nd Monday. We always have a contest between the girls & the boys. Then whenever someone comes over we ask them to "vote". I'm pretty sure the girls won this year, but it was close! It is so much fun! I love to do it and I know all of my kids look forward to it each year!

Carly, of course is in her dress-up!

The Girls finished project:

The Boys finished project:

Not again...

2009-02-26T07:36:00.000-08:00

Actual date: December 1, 2008
Well, at least it wasn't Carly this time! I really think I jinxed myself by saying that poor Carly has almost had stitches twice and Halle hasn't ever had any kind of semi-serious injury! Well, she was running from the front door to the garage to tell Scott that a friend was here and banged her head on our banister! Of course head injuries bleed profusely and surprisingly enough- Halle was pretty calm! I had her lay on my kitchen counter top (gross, I know, but who's thinking of sanitary options when their child is bleeding?)anyway, it was a pretty good cut, but I figured I could just superglue it- I didn't have any superglue, so Barney's to the rescue again! I would NOT recommend supergluing your beautful daughter's head! Sure, the bleeding stopped and it healed nicely, but after 3 weeks of "superglue glob" in her hair, her dad finally had to pull all of the hair out! Can you say "Holy Crap-OUCH!!"? If I even accidentally touched it too hard in the tub she would tear up- but, no when daddy -her favorite- is pulling out a chunk of her hair, she barely even whimpered! What a tough cookie! She has a nice bald spot, but luckily you can't really see it in any hair style we do!

Sports

2009-02-26T07:29:00.000-08:00

Through the months of October-January Scott and Jake have kept us busy with basketball and wrestling.

Scott is a great basketball player- I didn't really know what to expect because he hasn't been able to play for the last 2 years! But, he does awesome!

Jake loves wrestling. He's had the opportunity to practice with the Payson Junior High Wrestling team and has learned a TON! He has taken first or second in each tournament that he has wrestled in-which is awesome! I really have a hard time watching wrestling- little boys crying is just too sad to watch! But, as long as Jake is there, I will be too!

This is a picture of the ref getting ready to bring Jake's arm up as the winner:

Thanksgiving

2009-02-26T07:19:00.000-08:00

We spent Thansgiving this year with Kevin's family. There were A LOT of family there. My mom & sister had Thanksgiving by themselves, they loved the peace and quiet and relaxation so much they are seriously thinking of never hosting Thanksgiving dinner again! LOL! Like I would ever let that happen! :) I hate having to choose where to go on holidays, but after our first year of eating at both places and feeling sick afterwards- there are just some decisions you have to make! :)

I've read so many blogs that talk about why they are "Thankful" and I loved reading them! So, just so everyone knows- I am very thankful for indoor plumbling- but not for having to clean them, washers & dryers, dishwashers (& mom's that fill them for you while you're at work), my great husband, my best friend- who, sad to say, is as busy as I am and we don't get together often enough!, my kids, my mom & sister-without them I wouldn't be able to do 1/2 the things I do, my brothers & their families, my dad & his family, my Aunt Sally who keeps me laughing through emails and reminds me on a weekly basis just how much we are alike!, Kevin's family, my neighbors who are my great friends! and for my Heavenly Father who makes all of this possible for me to be thankful for!

Pumpkin Patch

2009-02-26T07:02:00.000-08:00

First Halle, Carly, Grandma J & I went to the "Big Red Barn" in Santaquin with Halle's preschool class. We FROZE!! Then a couple of days later I took all my kids and Aunt Tami to the pumpkin patch in Springville. (After we drove around for an hour trying to find an actual pumpkin patch that would let us find our own pumpkins!) Here are a few pics from those two days:

As you can see, Carly had been asleep and obviously did NOT want her picture taken with her pumpkin!

Halloween

2009-02-03T06:54:00.000-08:00

We had a great Halloween! It is still my favorite holiday! (Free candy!) Halle was a witch princess, Carly was a darling ladybug, Jake was a glow-in-the-dark skeleton and Scott was himself. He actually enjoyed sitting in the "trunk" of the Explorer and handing out the treats at the trunk-or-treats! We did go to the Salem City trick-or-treat-it was fun!

Halle & Carly

Halle, Jake (minus his mask which scared the girls) & Carly

Cousin Colton & Jake (we had to keep Colton at a safe distance from the girls!)

Cousin MaKaydee & Carly

Halle & Cousin Clay

The boys eating their donuts at the trunk-or-treat- I thought you'd like to see Scott's "costume"!

New W & D

2009-02-03T06:34:00.001-08:00

I FINALLY got a new HUGE capacity washer & dryer! Unfortunately (sort of) the teeny tiney ones I had for 12 years died the week before we left for CA! Thanks a TON to my mom & sister (for guilting Kevin & doing all my laundry for 10 days! And to Kevin for buying them for me! :)

California...Here we come!

2009-01-27T13:28:00.000-08:00

My mom, my sister-Tami, Halle, Carly and I decided to go to California over Fall Break. (The boys went deer hunting!)

All the girls went to Disneyland one day- it was so much fun! It was UTAH week! We ran into so many people that we knew- it was crazy! Even though it was busy, the people seemed so nice and definitely family friendly! :) We went to the Ariel's Grotto for the Princess lunch, where the girls got to meet Ariel, Snow White, Cinderella, Jasmine & Mulan. (Halle asked Mulan why she was there- "you're not a princess"- can you believe that?!) LOL!! It was so cute to see their faces whenever a new princess came to our table! Carly had to dress-up, she was Aurora (Sleeping Beauty) but Halle didn't want to dress up because she really wanted to be Jasmine and we didn't have the dress. By the way, Carly put her dress & dress-up shoes on at 2:25 pm and didn't want to take if off until 10:15 pm! It was so much fun! Anyway, we spent most of our time in Fantasy Land and the Princess Gala. I did make Halle ride Thunder Mountain (Hated it), Star Tours (liked it) and Space Mountain (LOVED IT!). Carly actually took a 2 hour nap! I couldn't believe it! Thankfully my mom volunteered to watch her and Tami was nice enough to take Halle on some rides while Carly slept too. Plus, Tami made the most AMAZING autograph books! They were awesome! We can't wait to go back to fill them up!

I almost forgot!! While we were waiting to ride the "Mary Poppins" ride- Carly has absolutely fallen in LOVE with Mary Poppins lately- anyway this ride was by far her favorite, which is the Merry Go Round- the funny part is, she promised me she wouldn't cry and oh my- did she fight the tears at first- and yet, whenever anyone asked what her favorite ride was, it was always the "Mary Poppins" ride!! Anyway, while we were waiting in line Halle said her tooth was loose. I HATE loose teeth! That has always been Kevin's department. Well, it was seriously hanging by a thread and I quickly pulled it out! She was so excited! Her first "Lost Tooth" and it fell out at Disneyland! WOW! LOL!!

The next day we went to the American Girl store in Los Angeles. Halle has wanted and AG doll since September- her friend Jordan has a few and Halle fell in love with them! Anyway, when we walked in the store Halle was seriously speechless! (Which, if you know her doesn't happen often!) The building is HUGE with 1000's of things to buy- besides the actual dolls. An associate told Halle that she looked exactly like the doll "Julie" and that was it for Halle! She wanted Julie for Christmas!

Then we went to Camarillo to meet the newest edition to the family- my brother Chris and his wife Amber had a little baby girl- Clarissa Sue. My girls were so excited to finally have a girl cousin on my side. Of course she's beautiful and we instantly fell in love with her! Plus, it was fun for the girls to spend time with Ryan & Garrett (Clarissa's big brothers), Uncles Tag & Chris and Aunt Amber who we only see a couple of times a year.

We left Grandma there to help Amber & Chris with the baby and drove home on Sunday. I was sad to leave my "California" family, but I was excited to get home to my boys! I just can't believe that Disneyland NEVER gets old! I could spend vacation after vacation there!

Baptism

2009-01-27T12:53:00.000-08:00

Jake's baptism story is great! Here are a few highlights:

~The day of his bishop's interview he asked me what kind of things the bishop would ask him and I told him. One question I told him was, "Why do you want to be baptized?" and Jake quickly replied, "because my mom would kick my butt if I didn't!"- what a stinker huh?! I told him he better come up with a better answer than that for the interview. When he got home from his interview he came in and shouted, "hey MOM! I passed!" LOL!!

~The day of his baptism he wasn't nervous at all! I couldn't believe it! He was so absolutely sure of his decision- it was very neat to witness. Kevin baptized and confirmed him and he was glowing. I loved it! We had the family and a few friends over for brunch afterwards- that's always a highlight!

~During sacrament the next day the bishop called Jake up to introduce the newest member of our ward and had some incredibly nice things to say about Jake. (Of course, I can't remember word for word, but this is what I remember about it.) He talked about their interview and how Jake actually taught him- how he knew that Jake would make an amazing missionary someday- that his knowledge of the gospel was obvious and that he had absolute conviction about why he wanted to get baptized. Of course, I was bawling in the back and Jake was absolutely glowing again! It was one of the most special things I'll ever experience!

Anyway, this was WAY longer than it needed to be, but like I always say- this is more for my journaling than anything else. Jake is truly something special- he's a great friend, great brother and even better son! I am honored to be his mom!

Jake's EIGHT!

2009-01-13T07:14:00.000-08:00

Jake turned 8 on October 4th. After much deliberation and debating, we finally agreed to have a camping birthday party! We went up Payson canyon, we hid a bunch of pictures of animals and had 2 teams, each team had to follow the clues and find all the animals, then we played "shoot the moose"- which was like pin the tail on the donkey only we used push pins and die cut of a moose and we played tug-of-war. First, we had just Scott and his friend Jade against all the boys-then we split it up more evenly- it was a riot to watch! Then we roasted hot dogs & marshmallows- but the most amazing part of the party was hands down, the cake that Tami made! It was seriously awesome! Pictures do not do it justice! Even the cupcakes were awesome! The gift bags had a flashlight, trail mix, root beer & jerkey in them. The flashlights were a huge hit! Anyway, it was a great day and everyone seemed to have fun! Here are a few pics-

Deer Hunt

2008-12-09T07:26:00.000-08:00

Scott was old enough to shoot his first deer this year! I'm seriously not sure who was more excited- Scott, Kevin or Uncle Mike! Here are a couple of pics of his deer- WARNING: Dead deer are GROSS!

Fish Lake

2008-12-09T07:20:00.000-08:00

Kevin, Jake, Halle, Carly & I went to Fish Lake over Labor Day weekend. Scott had a baseball tournament so he stayed home with Grandma Maureen. Kev's brother (Eric) & his family, his sister (Cindy) & her family & Kev's mom & dad all came down too. Mike & Lisa were "too busy" to come this year- geez! You'd think no one ever took a 2 day old baby camping before! LOL!!! I did miss them a lot!! Anyway, we took the boat out fishing, fished off the side of the lake, the boys went scouting for deer on their 4-wheelers while the girls stayed at the cabin and played or watched movies. The food is always great when you go camping, plus I hardly have to do a thing!! Kev's family used to go down to Fish Lake every Labor Day and then life got busy and we stopped going- I hope after this trip we all decide to keep it a yearly thing! (I have fishing pictures that I'll post later!)

Tumbling-August 2008

2008-12-09T06:48:00.000-08:00

I'm sorry that I can't find the picture of Halle on her 1st "Trial" day of tumbling, but if I find it I'll add it later. Anyway, if you read this blog you know that Halle did NOT want to do dance this year-she wanted to do gymnastics! I found a place that focuses on tumbling for cheerleading- perfect for Halle. They do some trampoline work- the trampoline was on her 2nd rotation, as she tried to do something she accidentally hit her nose with her knee and of course, got her first bloody nose! (Actually it was her first real bloody anything!) She freaked out! After we got her all cleaned up she waited until we were alone and told me- "Mom, I don't want to do gymnastics, let's just go back to dance okay?". I chuckled a little and told her to give it another try- she has since gone every week and learns more every time! I'm proud of her for sticking it out! :)

1st Day(s) of School

2008-12-05T07:51:00.001-08:00

Scott's first day of Junior High- 7th Grade:

Jake's first day of 2nd grade:

Halle's first day of Mrs.Leslie's Preschool:
(She thought she looked like "Girlfriend" which is Avril Lavigne!)

Carly's first day of nothing, but we still get her dressed up!:

Zoo

2008-12-05T07:39:00.000-08:00

My sister-in-law Cindy asked if we wanted to go to the zoo before school started. I knew that my kids would love to go, so we went! -I do have to insert here, that Scott was not all that excited to go, but he came and was a HUGE help with pushing the stroller, taking a 100 pictures and keeping everyone happy! I'm just glad that he still wants to hang out with his family...a little! - I was a little disappointed this year- there were hardly any animals! Everyone loved the elephant show and my girls couldn't wait to see the giraffe's- their favorite animal. (Thanks to Aunt Tami!) :) Here are a couple of pics from that day!

SHHS Football

2008-12-05T07:34:00.000-08:00

Two of my nephews played football for the Salem Hills High School-the Skyhawks! Here are Halle & Carly at the first blue & white game in their jerseys! (Thanks Aunt Lisa for the matching bows!) :)

Almost stitches...AGAIN!!!

2008-12-05T06:55:00.000-08:00

Sunday, August 10th: For all of you that still think I am a perfect mother, please stop reading now! Just kidding! Of course everyone that reads this knows I'm the furthest thing from a perfect mom!
Anyway, here's the story. Sunday morning, (exactly 6 months & 1 day since Carly's last "almost stitches") Kevin was gone looking for deer, I was trying to get all the kids ready for church. Well, Scott HATES to be late to anything-especially church, so when Scott, Jake & Halle were ready I decided to just take and drop them off and then I'd come back and get me & Carly ready. I dropped them off, I'm getting Carly in the tub- she says she can get out herself, normally I say no, but I'm in a hurry and let her- well of course she falls and splits open her chin!! Blood everywhere- and the girl HATES bandaids!(Weird I know!) So it was a struggle to just get her to let me put one on! Now I am not panicking about the cut- but I am panicking about my kids at church- I had to get myself dressed (church appropiate), go in and get Halle & Jake-I knew where their classes were. Okay, so here's the embarassing part- I had NO IDEA where Scott's class was- the only people that were in the hall was the new bishop and his counselor! I was seriously mortified-1st that I had sent my kids to church without me (which I had never done before-or since!) and 2nd that I had no idea where Scott was. So, of course I told him what happened and he went & got Scott. When the kids got in the car they were so sad for Carly- it was pretty cute! Scott wisely convinced Jake & Halle that it would be best if they didn't go with us to the Doctor, but Carly did cry for about 10 minutes after we dropped them off because she really just wanted her sister to come with her! (It was so sad!) Anyway, we got to the instacare- they were able to superglue it together and the doctor had to convince Carly that having a bandaid on was neccessary and surprisingly she left it on for a few days!
Life without drama would be boring, right?! Here are a couple of pics from that day:

Carly waiting at the instacare-actually smiling!:

Carly afterwards-not so happy!(Notice the wet spot from the crying?):

Salem Days

2008-12-05T06:47:00.000-08:00

I LOVE Salem Days! There is just something so comforting about small town fun! Unfortunately I couldn't attend the parade- Kevin's cousin was getting married, but I sent my mom with Scott & the girls. Jake was riding in the SHHS football truck with uncle Paul. My kids brought home an entire grocery bag full of candy & prizes! It's our favorite parade FOR SURE!! Later that night we went to the Salem Pageant. It was so much fun! It started to POUR towards the end- a lot of people left, oh-but not us! We stayed for all but the last 5 minutes of the fireworks! (We ended up watching the last of the fireworks from the car-it had of course, stopped raining by then!)

Alaska

2008-11-26T07:38:00.000-08:00

Kevin went to Alaska over the 24th of July to go fishing! Here are a couple of pictures from his trip! (By the way- the fish tastes AMAZING!! And I normally don't even like fish!)

Pioneer Tournament

2008-11-26T07:34:00.000-08:00

The Utah County Wildcats (Scott's baseball team) won the Championship game in the Pioneer Tournament! It was a great win for the team & the parents! Scott did great eventhough it was pouring rain through most of it! Great job Scottie!

24th of July

2008-11-26T07:21:00.000-08:00

Here are some pics from the 24th of July rodeo.

My brother Chris & his family were up from California and of course we had to take them to the rodeo!!

The girls waving at the Rodeo princesses!

Jake wouldn't let me take his picture (what's new) he was too busy watching the rodeo! (P.S. Kim- I told you we sat close to Ryan & JeriAnn!) :)

It might just be me, but I think Scott makes one FINE cowboy! :)

Halle's 5th Birthday

2008-10-23T06:57:00.000-07:00

Halle's Cowgirl Birthday

Halle had a cowgirl party this year- and it was a lot of fun!

Unfortunately, we got started a little bit late- then we had to load up all the kids to take them to the farm for some of the games listed below- there just happened to be construction on the road in front of the farm that day, so we had to take the roundabout way- which took even longer! So, some of the games we had planned we had to skip- maybe I'll just use them for another party! Halle has a lot of really good friends & cousin CLAY that came that made her birthday a great one! Thanks to all that came!

We played games:

"Horse Shoe Throw" (we threw a bean bag into a cowboy boot)
(Jake was in charge)
"Barrel Hunt" (we searched through sawdust in a big bucket to find toys & candy)
(Grandma Maureen was in charge)
"Barrel Racing" (we set up 3 50 gallon water tanks in a barrel racing pattern and had each kid ride a stick horse around them- we timed them to find a winner)
(Scott was in charge)
"Horse Riding" (each kid got to take a ride on a horse around the small corral while I took their picture)
(Kevin was in charge)

Games we didn't play:
"Pin the Sherriff" (we were supposed to pin a sherriff's badge on the cowboy, but we ran out of time)
"Rope Tying" (we were supposed to tie a rope using skinny red licorice, but had to cut that out too!)
"Hot Potato" (my sister made a darling western CD that we were supposed to play hot potato to, but once again, we ran out of time)

Her cake- courtesey of Aunt Tami: (I LOVED IT!!)!
The treat bag contents: Cowgirl Coloring book (courtesey Aunt Tami), crayons, copy of Western CD from Hot Potato, bottle of Strawberry Crush, candy sticks & salt water taffy.

Kids Vacation

2008-09-20T18:56:00.001-07:00

While Kevin, Scott & I were in Boston & Cooperstown I wanted Jake, Halle & Carly to feel like they sort of had a vacation of their own. I had been planning their "vacation" for a LONG time, probably as long as we were planning our Cooperstown trip. They stayed with my mom, my sister Tami, my sister-in-laws (Cindy, Lisa & Heather), Kev's aunt Alysa & her daughter Morgan and our friend & neighbor Pam Barney. Each day everyone had something planned for them to do. They went to a lot of museums, went swimming, to the mall & had A LOT of sleepovers!!! I think that was the funnest part for them. It was weird for me, I really thought that I would miss them more- I think it helped me that I really didn't talk to the kids very much. I talked to my mom & sister everyday (well, honestly probably 3 or 4 times a day) to check on the kids. Jake & Halle both called crying once each and that was really hard! Carly only told me to "come home right now" the day before we were scheduled to come home, but all in all, it wasn't nearly as bad as I thought it would be. Here is a slide show of the pictures that my sister took while they were with her & my mom. Enjoy!

Kids Vacation Slide Show

2008-09-20T18:54:00.001-07:00

Still trying to update: Cooperstown, NY

2008-09-08T12:52:00.000-07:00

Cooperstown! WOW!! It was AMAZING! If you love baseball- you would LOVE Cooperstown! This update is pretty long- sorry! It's more for me than anyone else! :)

The Cooperstown Dreams Park is seriously the coolest place ever! They have more than 20 fields- all enclosed- 10 foot high walls surrounding each field- the parents from each side even sit in dugout- type areas along the 1st & 3rd baselines. The whole experience is about making each little boy feel like he is a major league baseball player!
We arrived at night and the fields were all lit up- just like the major leagues! First the boys went to their bunks- little dorm like rooms. Then they started pin trading! Pin trading is HUGE here! It's funny how excited even the parents get with their son getting a coveted pin!
I honestly didn't want to leave Scott that night- I started to cry but quickly controlled myself so he wouldn't see me.
They had opening and closing ceremonies where each team gets to walk around the park with their team- all teams where Cooperstown uniforms- so it was pretty hard to tell which boy was yours! At the closing ceremonies each boy is inducted into the Little League Hall of Fame and given a Champion ring- it is way cool!
Our boys played 8 games in 4 days. We ended up in the top 32 out of 98 teams- which is a lot better than I thought we would do! We had a few close games that our boys just played so good together and would pull through! It was so much fun!
We were lucky enough to have 5 of our 8 games featured on the webcam so our families could watch from home. Scott did struggled a little at bat the first, but thanks to our adopted coach- Coach Bradford- he did so awesome the rest of the games! He even hit a "wall banger" just a couple of feet shy of going over!!
An umpire gave him the game ball- telling Scott that he seemed like a great kid and was an awesome catcher! I think it definitely made Scott's day!
On one day that we didn't play until the afternoon, we went to the Baseball Hall of Fame. That place is so dang cool! It was neat to see how the game has progressed and all of the team memorablia. I could've spent an entire day there- but unfortunately we could only spend a couple of hours.
Rob & Jenny Nielsen had been to Cooperstown before with their older son, so they knew the ropes. They rented the house we all stayed in- it was awesome! The "single-wide" was located on a farm with hills & trees all around, a pond with a paddle boat and a fire pit! We even had a few of the boys and a couple of families over to roast marshmallows! On our way to the "single-wide" we would pass this teepee. Jenny made the comment that if the boys weren't nice that they would have to spend the night in the teepee. It became one of the funniest parts of the trip!!
Well, on our 2nd play-off game we lost, 7-6. It was so sad! All of the boys were crying- the coaches, some dads & of course the mom's were crying too! It was so sad to see the experience end! The boys played awesome! Seriously, Scott had what I deemed the best defensive play of the game! He was playing deep center field and a pop up was hit about 10 feet behind 2nd base- Scott ran & dove to catch the ball! It was AMAZING!! (Of course, I am a little biased!) Anyway, our "team photographer" Vanessa got the catch on film- but I haven't begged long enough for the picture to get it yet! :) (Just kidding Ness!) -By the way, we all had nicknames by the end of the trip and mine was the "Camera Bitch" because I would carry Vanessa's camera stuff anywhere just so she would take more pictures of Scott for me- she is the BEST!!!
The whole experience there is just cool! I put a bunch of pictures on a slide show below. If you've already spent your "extra time" reading this novel, check back another time! :)

Cooperstown, NY Slide Show

2008-09-08T12:39:00.000-07:00

You have to drag your mouse over the pictures to read the captions- I tried and tried to figure out how to do it, but I just don't have the patience! Anyway- have fun!

Trying to Update: On our way to Cooperstown

2008-08-27T07:55:00.000-07:00

Here we are at the SLC airport on our way to BOSTON, MA- the red suitcases were just the Nielsen's luggage- we had our luggage, plus both the boys had their HUGE bat bags!

*The boys' shirts say "I'm NOT a Team Player"- in the middle of the baseball season, Scott & Jade were accused of "pulling away from the team"- which was probably a bit true- these 2 are great friends, on & off the field- when Scott was struggling with his coaches, it was Jade that tried to keep his spirits up and ALWAYS took Scott's side- we all need a friend like that! Anyway, while Kevin & I were shopping for last minute things, we saw these shirts and thought they were a PERFECT inside joke! The boys loved them!

A picture from our layover in Arizona.

(We figured, including layovers were in 5 different states in 10 days.)

In Boston:

1st day- hotel employee tells us all the tour info is "just a couple of blocks down the road" so we drop our luggage at the hotel and start trekking down the BLVD- seriously, it was like 2 miles! I was wearing brand new shoes (which had I known we were going on a HIKE I would have changed!) We finally found the tour we were looking for- the DUCK TOUR! It was way cool- you get in these vehicles that drive you around downtown Boston and then they take you on a tour of the bay- the vehicle is from WWII and can function on land & water- here is some pictures from the tour:Jade, Scott & a tour guide Scott "driving" the "boat":Jade & Scott in front of the car/boat: Next- our hotel. We stayed at the Howard Johnson in Boston- it was pretty old, but is was very clean! The best part about our hotel, was the location! When we opened our window- the only thing we could see was FENWAY PARK!! That's right- Fenway Park was our backyard! It was so cool! Here is a picture from our Fenway Park tour (out of order, I know) that shows how close it really was- That night we went to a Red Sox vs Arizona Diamondbacks game. Our seats weren't that great, but it was still cool to just be there. We all got to go right down behind home plate during batting practice- that was really cool! Scott kept the stats of the game- his favorite thing to do! Since our hotel was so close, we walked around Fenway and took a lot of pictures- here are some

of them:

All the kids waiting to tour Fenway, Scott before game & the boys on the tour of Fenway.Jade, Scott & Mason at Red Sox game, Kevin, Scott & me at Fenway Tour & Scott keeping stats at the game.Scott at batting practice at Fenway Boys at Samuel Adams monument (we toured downtown Boston, shopped, watched street performers, etc.) the kids on the ferry ride to the USS Constitution & kids standing in front of USS Constitution Museum.Waiting for the subway

While we were in Boston it was IMPOSSIBLE to find a public restroom! Here is Scottie paying 25cents to use a restroom- which after you went to the bathroom it completely "sanitized" itself- including drying time! It was very interesting- plus, this makes a fabulous wedding video picture- don't you think?

Tagged by Abbie T

2008-08-11T07:52:00.000-07:00

Abbie "tagged" me a little while ago- here you go:

4 People that I love: My hubby (Kevin), my kids (Scott, Jake, Halle & Carly), my family & my friends

4 Places that I visit over and over: My mom's house, California, gas stations (for Diet Coke) & baseball fields

4 People that I text/email on a regular basis: EMAIL: my mom, sister, aunt Sally & Ann TEXT: my sister & my brothers Chris & Tag

4 Favorite foods: Mexican food- (especially hard tacos from Mi Rancherito in Payson), a good steak, Raspberry salad & Chicken Alfredo from the Pizza Factory

4 Places I would rather be: That's easy- anywhere but here! Just kidding! At home with my kids, Disneyworld with my family, on a tropical beach with Kevin or just anywhere that I can have fun with my family.

4 Things I would rather be doing: home cleaning my filthy house, scrapbooking, taking some pictures of my kids & shopping

4 movies I watch over and over: Hope Floats, Sweet Home Alabama, Wild Hogs & any good Lifetime, ABC Family or Hallmark movie- I might have watched it 10 times, but I'll watch again and again! (Usually though, I'm watching movies like Cinderella III, Fairytopia, Mermadia, etc. that the kids watch in the car!)

4 TV Shows I watch over and over: CSI: Miami or CSI, Without a Trace, Design to Sell & Paula's Home cooking & Sandra Lee's Semi homemade

4 Bands I love: Rascall Flatts, Sugarland, New Kids on the Block, 'Nsync (there I said it- I love boy bands!) :)

4 Songs I love: Skin by Rascall Flatts, All I Want to do by Sugarland, Sweet Home Alabama & Groovy Kind of Love by Phil Collins

4 People I tag: Lisa L, Amanda F, Allison S & Heather M

Good Luck Girls!

Dancing

2008-07-31T12:49:00.000-07:00

Halle's Dance Recital...

What can I say- I thought she did great! She actually looked a bit bored with the whole thing. She knew all the dance steps but went through them a bit fast, like if she did them faster the whole thing would be over quicker or something. She didn't want to go the recital, so being the best mother ever- I of course, bribed her! I told her that if she went to her recital and did her dances the best she could then I would let her stop doing dance and go to gymnastics. Well, after her 2 dances were over I went in the back to pick her up- told her how great she did and all she said to me was- "now can I do gymnastics?"!! Needless to say- we are signing up for gymnastics this year. Here are a few pictures that I took of her on Picture Day:

Promises, Promises...

2008-07-22T05:52:00.001-07:00

Just to let you all know, I have NOT forgotten about my blog- life is just a bit crazy and I haven't had 3 seconds to sit down and organize my thoughts well enough to blog it! Hopefully after this weekend life will quiet down a little and I'll return to my blogging ways...!

Vacation Time!

2008-06-24T06:03:00.000-07:00

Kevin, Scott & I are leaving for Cooperstown, NY TODAY!!!

(Scott is playing in a baseball tournament there.)

Jake, Halle & Carly will be having their own little "vacation" here- staying with

Grandma & Tami, Aunt Cindy, Aunt Lisa, Aunt Heather,

the Barney's, Cousin Morgan & the Bowen's!!

I hope everyone has TONS OF FUN!!

We won't be back until the 4th of July- so hopefully I'll finally have some time

to post about what's been happening in our lives for the past month!

I should also post a HUGE "THANK YOU" to everyone, especially my mom & sister

for taking care of my 'babies' while we're gone.

I know I will miss them more than they miss me!

Halle's Preschool Graduation

2008-05-29T10:41:00.001-07:00

Here is some pictures from Halle's preschool graduation- she only has one more year of preschool and then I'll finally let her go to Kindergarten! :)

Barbie Backpacks

2008-05-29T10:00:00.001-07:00

My kids now take their own backpacks to baseball games. I was carrying WAY too much stuff! This was probably one of my best ideas EVER! Baseball can last up to 5 hours on a Saturday and they can pack whatever they want to!

Jake's Contents: 20 animals, a truck & corrals

Halle's Contents: Pet shops, notebook & pen, nail polish, lip gloss, sunglasses, colored pencils, baby bottle & baby (she actually carries "Emily" because Emily doesn't like it in her backpack!)

Carly's Contents: Sidewalk chalk, bubbles, crayons, coloring book, fruit snacks, sunglasses, extra underwear, baby Missy & bottle, tissues & anything Halle can't fit into her own backpack!

I love going to baseball! It's one of my favorite sports to watch! Especially when it's one of my kids! Here is a picture of Carly dragging her backpack back to the car- Halle is way ahead of us and Jake wouldn't let me take his picture- you only fight the battles worth fighting right?! :)

Preschool at the Park

2008-05-14T06:15:00.000-07:00

Halle's preschool class went to the park for a special field trip and Mother's day program. Here are a couple of pictures from that day...

Carly & Halle

Halle with her Mother's Day Gift to me

Carly & MaKaydee

Stock Show

2008-05-14T06:00:00.000-07:00

Once again Scottie participated in the Leland and Spanish Fork stock shows- he showed a pig. He didn't score as well this year as he did last year, but he said he still had a ton of fun. Jake & Halle each showed a pig at the Leland stock show- it's called the "Minis" division. I couldn't believe that Halle actually did it! Jake did great and he LOVED it! He's mad he doesn't get to show his own pig for 2 more years! We asked Carly if she wanted to show a pig and she told me, "no- it's dirty out there". Oh well- maybe next year!

I missed Scott actually showing his pig and he didn't want me to take his picture... hence, the cute expression... :)

Jake is in the back with the cowboy hat on-

Little Miss Halle

Halle & Jake with their Gold Medals (is Jake "too cool" or what?!)

Carly didn't want to show a pig or have her picture taken this day

Prom

2008-04-30T06:56:00.001-07:00

Well it was SF's Prom last Saturday night and my sister I took my girls to Promenade to see my nephew Matt & his girlfriend Danielle. (We met aunt Cindy there.) I have never had so much fun in all my life- the girls were hilarious! Halle would put a dress "definitely on my list" and "totally OFF my list" every time a girl walked on the stage. Carly would cover her mouth in excitement and say "oh my gosh- I LOVE that dress" or "oh my gosh- I HATE that dress" and would yell at me to "give me the camera- I need to take picture Mom" and she would. It was great. One couple dipped and kissed and Halle thought that was the highlight of the night! I told her if she ever kissed her date like that I would march up on the stage and drag her home by her hair- she just rolled her eyes and said "whatever". Of course, I wouldn't really have to- her dad & brothers would probably beat me to the stage anyway... :) Ha! Ha!

Nightime

2008-04-28T09:12:00.000-07:00

Okay, so anyone that knows me at all, has heard me talk about how "lump in my throat" I get about Carly growing up. Anyway, I've been so excited about Carly going on the "big girl potty" but with the excitement brings back my "lump in the throat"! Well, for the last 2 weeks or so Carly has stayed up after all the kids are asleep- she always gets an "owie" (sometimes real, sometimes pretend) and comes crying to me that she needs to snuggle- we have to make a pit stop by her crib to get her pacifier "paci" and her blanket and then I sit in my lazy-boy and rock her to sleep- infant style, blanket up over her face & everything! I just love that while Carly is ready to be a big girl she recognizes that I still need her to be my baby! Thanks Carly- I love ya!

Blog

2008-04-22T07:08:00.001-07:00

I was reading a great blog about a sick little boy and I thought some of you might like to read it too- www.charliecooperjackjack.blogspot.com

My BIG Girl!

2008-04-18T07:58:00.000-07:00

NO MORE DIAPER CHANGES- FOREVER!!!! YEAH! YIPEE! WAHOO!

Princesses on Ice

2008-03-28T07:40:00.000-07:00

My sister Tami and I took my girls and Halle's friend, Addie, to the Disney Princesses on Ice. It was AWESOME!! All 3 of the girls sat perfectly quiet during the whole show! When Belle came out to skate, Halle stood up, put her hand on her heart and swayed during the whole song- it was so darling! I would recommend this show to anyone who has a daughter or niece to go and see it! Here are a few of pictures of the girls from that day-

Meeting the Easter Bunny

2008-03-28T07:27:00.000-07:00

The girls and I needed to do some shopping for St. George at the mall- I promised them if they were good we would stop and visit the Easter bunny. Halle was great- she loved it! Carly hated it and as you can tell, cried the entire time, until we left then she smiled and said bye. Crazy girls!

St George

2008-03-27T12:44:00.000-07:00

Over Easter weekend we went to St. George for Scott's baseball tournament. Can I just tell all of you, that I could totally live there! I LOVED it! The weather was perfect all weekend long! It really sucked coming back to Salem and it was cold, rainy & even a little snow! Anyway, back to fabulous St. George- The highlight of the whole trip (other than the good company we were with) was the Fiesta Fun Park that we went to. It was located about a 1/2 block away from our hotel- it was GREAT! Here are a couple of pictures from the 2 days we spent there:

Here's Jake, Scott and friends on the Bumber boats:

Here are the boys after going on the Bumper Boats- they are SOAKED!! Scott is the 2nd one from the left-

Watching the kids on the go-carts was way fun- but watching the dad's was the BEST!! My cheeks honestly hurt from laughing so hard at the dad's- I loved it!
The picture above is Kevin with Halle waving at us and by the way, I do love Jake, and he did ride the go-carts (with Hayden Nielsen), but the pictures totally suck and you can't even tell who's on the car. Hopefully, my friend Vanessa has some I can get later. Anyway, Halle got to drive her own go-cart- and to everyone's amazement (especially mine!) she actually did really well- maybe I will let her drive when she's 16 afterall...

Updated blog...FINALLY!

2008-03-04T06:16:00.000-08:00

Over the last 2 days I've added (I think) 9 new posts- I really should update more often huh?! Check them out- pace yourself, maybe only check 2 a day or something! LOL!! :)

Junior High?!

2008-03-04T06:11:00.001-08:00

Okay- last night I was watching TV (Jon & Kate plus 8- my favorite) and Scottie comes and sits down next to me and hands me some papers- he says that he has to have them signed and handed in tomorrow. I took one look at the Junior High registration form and burst into tears! I know I'm such a boob! Scott felt bad and tried to reassure me, but I am NOT ready to have a child in the jungle of Junior High- kids are mean! I know I'm overreacting... A LOT- but he's my baby. Anyway, I know a lot of you don't have kids this old yet, but you will all be here someday- anyone have a Zanax?! (I don't even know how to spell that?! Oh well!) :)

Jake's Surgery

2008-03-04T06:01:00.000-08:00

Jake was such a good patient! He didn't go in for surgery until 11:15, but by the time he came into recovery he wanted a Popsicle and something to drink. He didn't nap at all- not even the first day. We had to keep reminding him to lay down and take it easy. On Saturday and Sunday he wanted medicine about every 4-5 hours- Monday he wished he could've gone to school. We did send him to school on Tuesday- but when Scott & Kevin stayed home sick on Wednesday he decided his throat hurt and he needed to stay home too! (Probably a good idea!) He seems okay- he eats anything and hasn't had any medicine since Wednesday, so I think we're good! I'm so glad that it wasn't that bad for him!

Mustang, Outfit & "Sleepover"

2008-03-03T12:49:00.000-08:00

The girls FINALLY got to actually drive their mustang outside this week- I thought I might kill Halle- her "blonde roots" came out when I was trying to teach her how to drive, but man I LOVE her! It definitely makes me laugh now- :) The girls in similar outfits- I know the day will come when they won't let me do this, so while I can...
Friday night Jake & Halle wanted to have a "sleepover"- Carly was asleep so Jake picked out pj's for Halle. Then they told me I should take a picture- wedding video, here we come! :)

Playhouse

2008-03-03T12:18:00.000-08:00

I LOVE this playhouse! Carly got this for her birthday and it is fabulous! It all seems so real- anyway, I know the girls look just darling, but hey- they just wanted to wear pj's to grandma's so don't hold it against me! :)

Carly was just so excited!

Almost Stitches!

2008-03-03T08:40:00.000-08:00

Saturday, February 9th- BUSY day! Here's my plan: Wake up, get dressed, go to store and buy everything needed for Scott's party at 6:00, make cupcakes, take Halle to friends birthday party at 2:00, clean house, wrap present from Jake and the family, cook dinner for 17 6th graders, leave for Laser Assault by 7:00 pm. Sounds crazy, but I'm used to it- but here's what happened:

Woke up late- waited for Tami to go to store- at store (at 1:00) remember friend birthday party- called grandma to start getting Halle ready (yes, I already had the present bought, but not wrapped!)- at 1:15 got call from Grandma, Carly had tripped on her new playhouse and had a cut just above her eye- stitches... maybe- Tami & I raced home- got Halle ready, present wrapped- Scott took Halle to friends party- Tami, Carly & I went to Urgent Care in Springville (oh and Kevin made us stop at Smith Auto so he could see the cut)- at the doctor, waiting an hour- 1st dr, yes to stitches, 2nd dr- no just butterfly bandage- another call from Grandma, this time Halle crying, the magician was going to "make them all disappear" and she wanted to see her mom again- no consoling happening there- grandma doesn't know where party is, b-day girl dad must bring Halle home- good idea since Halle had forgotten her present at home anyway- finally left dr- stop again at Smith Auto to pick up Expedition for tonights party- go home it's 3:30- pick up house (mostly already done thanks to grandma)- frost cupcakes- done, Tami makes thank you gift tag for kids- start cooking dinner at 5:00, all 17 kids show up, party goes great, we get to Laser Assault on time- take all kids home. Crazy day?! I can't wait until next year!

Carly's B-day

2008-03-03T08:35:00.001-08:00

I can't believe my baby turned 2! In some ways she has grown up overnight- and yet, she's still the baby in our family! Carly is such a good baby- well, toddler I guess. She's so sweet yet, totally bossy! We just love her! Here are a couple of pics from her party-

Dress Up

2008-03-03T08:28:00.000-08:00

My girls LOVE to play dress up- Carly was a "Fairy" (love the hair!) on this day and Halle said she was a "cooker"! :)

Happy 'Un' Birthday!

2008-03-03T08:23:00.000-08:00

Halle had her 'un' birthday at school- she thinks this is great because she gets 2 birthday parties!

Bean Museum

2008-03-03T08:05:00.000-08:00

Halle's pre-school went to the Bean Museum for a field trip. It's such a cool museum- I love it! I should blog that as I was dropping off Halle that day I slipped on some ice, fell all the way to the ground, hitting my shin on my door! At first it looked like all I was going to have was a sore leg but while we were walking around the museum I started to feel blood running down my leg- it bled through 2 band-aids!! Well, at least my girls were the only ones to see! :)

Update- Scott's Foot

2008-02-11T10:49:00.000-08:00

Here is a picture of the scar on Scott's foot from his surgery. He started going to baseball practice and says it's all right- so far! We're going to go see a physical therapist this week to make sure everything is okay. :)

Prophet

2008-01-31T07:22:00.000-08:00

Loved this quote and thought others might also enjoy it-

You were generals in the War in Heaven and one day when you are in the spirit world, you will be enthralled by those you are associated with. You will ask someone in which time period they lived and you might hear, "I was with Moses when he parted the Red Sea," or "I helped built the pyramids'" or "I fought with Captain Moroni." And as you are standing there in amazement, someone will turn to you and ask you which of the prophets' time did you live in? And when you say "Gordon B. Hinkley" a hush will fall over every hall and corridor in Heaven, and all in attendance will bow at your presence. You were held back six thousand years because you were the most talented, most obedient, most courageous, and most righteous. Elder Boyd K. Packer

Christmas 2007 Pics

2008-01-17T09:45:00.001-08:00

Christmas Eve PJ's:

(Jake's shirt says: Naughty or Nice- I still get what I want!)

(Scott's shirt says: I'm only here for the presents)

Scott's Ipod
Jake & Maggie

Hot Girls in their Mustang!

Kevin made the girls close their eyes to get their diaper bags & strollers

Carly & Baby Missy

Huntin' Coats

Guitar Hero

Jake

2008-01-16T08:11:00.001-08:00

Well, we went to the doctor on Monday and it's all set- Jake is getting is tonsils removed on February 21st! We found out last month that he is a strep carrier, has sleep apnea & his tonsils were a 4+- (HUGE!) According to the doctor Jake should be able to sleep & talk better, so we're excited for him. He's a little nervous, but I know he'll be fine. Plus, he gets to go shopping and pick out A LOT of popsicles. I'm glad we're doing it now and not when he's an adult. I'll try and keep everyone updated on how he's doing.

Christmas Card

2008-01-10T08:22:00.000-08:00

Here is the Lyman Family Christmas card. I haven't even mailed most of them yet- whatever?! Life is too busy! Anyway, I thought some of you might enjoy reading the letter and seeing the kids. Plus, I just love Carly's "CHEESY" grin!

Dear Friends & Family-

Merry Christmas! Happy New Year! Or by the time you get this- Happy Valentine’s Day! I hope everyone enjoyed their holidays. We sure did!

It was funny this year- I could hardly sleep Christmas Eve I was so excited for my kids! And while they were opening presents I remember thinking to myself, I really need to remember this day; remember how I am feeling and try to enjoy the whole day! And I did! It was great!

Scott got his iPod, the girls got their Pink Barbie Mustang & Jake finally got his puppy, Maggie. I was taking pictures of his face when he saw her and oh my gosh- you could actually see the love in his face that he already had for her! All of the kids were excited to get a puppy- Santa did leave a letter telling Jake that the puppy was actually his and his dad’s because a puppy is a big responsibility and Jake might need help. I honestly, just love Christmas!

Anyway, here’s a little info about what’s going on in our family:

Scott: Had foot surgery and his recovering well. He was disappointed at his last check-up because he was told he had to wear his walking boot for 2 more weeks and no sports for another 6 weeks. But he’s determined to be ready for his baseball tournament in March, so we’ll see. Scott’s team is going to Cooperstown, NY this summer. He’s been busy earning money to go. Kevin & I will be going with him, so it should be fun! He’s been pretty “cooped” up this winter- first having a cast and using crutches, then being limited on his activities with his walking boot, but he gets around great in his boot- and we have to remind him to be careful too often!

Jake: Loves taking care of Maggie and does a great job so far! He’s a great wrestler and hasn’t been beat yet! He’s thinking of joining a wrestling league. We’ll see how it works out. Jake would wear camouflage every day if we’d let him. And most of his clothes have some sort of camo on them. He’s still a little cowboy- and we love it! He loves going out to the farm with his dad and just hanging out. He loves it when he gets to ride the horses and move cows and occasionally shoot his BB gun.

Halle: Is such a princess! She talks like she’s a teenager and acts like one too. She texts & talks on her “cell phone” all day. It’s hilarious to listen to her. She’s a mom to “Emily” her baby doll. Motherhood is hard work you know- you don’t get to have any fun and all you do is take care of your baby! When Emily is asleep we have to keep the house quiet or hear the wrath from Halle about how tired Emily is and how she’s been sick and on and on and on she goes! We have to bite our tongues so we don’t laugh out loud. She’s promised all of the neighborhood moms that she’s going to pick them up in her mustang and take them to get a diet coke- heaven help us when she really can drive!

Carly: Is Halle’s little shadow. She loves to do everything Halle is doing. They sit in their “car” talking to each other on their cell phones- then they call other people and talk while their driving. It’s great! Carly rules the house- and she’s definitely our baby and we love it! She has to have “gloss” on before she leaves the house and when she doesn’t want to wear something she tells me “that not match Mom”- I can’t help but laugh and then try and convince my not quite 2 year old that what I want her to wear does in fact match. Carly loves to read too. She constantly has a book with her no matter where we go. She’s a smart little thing- you know, she's just like me! LOL!!

Kevin & I: We went on a Mexican cruise this year. Just a 4 day one- but it was exactly what we needed! It was so much fun to spend some time with each other. We decided we need to go on a cruise more often! We’ve just started to finish the basement. I am so excited! I can’t wait to have Jake downstairs with Scott in their own rooms and for the girls to have their own rooms upstairs. (It will be interesting to see if they all fall asleep in their own rooms though!)

Well, I hope everything is going well with you. I don’t update my blog very often, but I do add some pretty cute pictures of my kids, so if you get a minute check it out! http://www.lymanfamilyof6.blogspot.com/ I miss you and can’t wait to see you again!

Love,
Debi Lyman & Family

Riding Horses

2007-10-15T08:02:00.002-07:00

My kids love to ride horses- yes, even scaredy cat Halle!

Pumpkin Patch

2007-10-15T08:02:00.001-07:00

I took Tami, my 4 kids & Scott's friend Zac to the pumpkin patch during fall break. It was more fun than I expected!

1st Grade Pumpkin Patch

2007-10-15T08:01:00.001-07:00

I was a "mother helper" for Jake's 1st grade trip to the pumpkin patch. Here is a class picture-

Jake's Pumpkin

Jake and his friend Easton

Jak'e Birthday at Cabela's

2007-10-15T08:00:00.000-07:00

After Tami & Jake spent 2 1/2 hours at Cabela's, Tami saw a sign that said they now held birthday parties for kids there. We thought that it was a fabulous idea! I called the next Monday to see if it was even possible to schedule a party in 5 days- it was but, we couldn't start until 6:00 pm. I was worried that it was a little late for kids, but I scheduled it anyway. We had 17 kids there (including Scott & Carly who weren't "really" invited). Luckily my mom & Tami helped me drive them all there. It took us a record one hour and 35 minutes because of the weather and traffic- I had a couple of kids fall asleep! We didn't get there until 6:40 and so we felt a little rushed. (If anyone ever decides to have a party there, call me- I promise I can give you a couple of helpful hints that I wish I had known!) Anyway, the kids all got darling orange "hunting" vests (courtesy of Grandma Maureen), ate pizza, went on a scavenger hunt, fed the trout, got to shoot at the shooting gallery and have darling deer cupcakes, courtesy of Tami. I ended up having to call all of the parents to tell them we were going to be a little later than expected- 10:00pm!! I'm glad none of the parents seemed to really mind! Anyway, it was way fun! I don't think Jake stopped grinning- which was the best present for me!

This is the "deer" cupcake.

This was Jake's "Hunting" cake- once again courtesy of Tami. I thought it was darling!!

Cabelas

2007-10-15T07:53:00.000-07:00

April or May 2007-

Jake to Aunt Tami: One day will you take me to Cabela's? Just you and me, no Scott, no Halle & no Carly.

Aunt Tami: Sure

September 2007

Jake to Aunt Tami: When are you taking me to Cabela's?

Aunt Tami: How about Sept. 29th, we'll go for your birthday.

Okay, so Tami took Jake to Cabela's- they were there for 2 1/2 hours!!! I asked Tami to let Jake take some pictures of some things he wanted for his birthday because Kevin & I were planning on going back up to Cabela's that night to shop. Anyway, he did take some pictures... 97 to be exact!! He took pictures of everything he could possibly want- toys, guns, bedding, furniture, even decorations for his room! It was hilarious! We did buy 3 things from his "list"- here is 1 picture that Tami actually took of him at Cabela's in the shooting range...

Our Mexican Cruise

2007-10-15T07:50:00.000-07:00

Kevin and I FINALLY went on our cruise! And those of you who know us, no I'm not pregnant and I didn't get pregnant either- YEAH!!!! We had sooo much fun! It was the most relaxing vacation we've ever gone on! It was only 4 days- but that was just long enough for me to remember how much fun I have with Kevin and just how much I really do LOVE him!! We had such a great time together!! We did meet a really fun couple that we ate dinner with (& went to a couple shows together)- they were way fun! Once I get the pictures she took of us, I'll add them to this post! Anyway, here are a couple of pictures-

This is a picture of Kevin at La Bufadora- a blowhole. It was more of a "shopping" expedition than anything else!

This is a picture of... ME!! Can you believe it? This was on our last night on the ship- outside on the Lido deck (I think?!)- just about everyone else was in the clubs, bars or casino! Very peaceful & quiet! LOVED IT!!!

This is the "shopping"- if that's what you want to call it. I didn't like it very much- the deals were great, but the people were WAY TOO PUSHY for me! Kevin had to "rescue" me more than once!

Girls's Outfits

2007-10-15T07:49:00.000-07:00

Here are some pictures of Halle's "school outfits"- and we usually get Carly "ready for school" too!

ALA Cheerleader

2007-10-15T07:43:00.000-07:00

Halle had the opportunity to cheer at ALA's football half time. She went to a little "cheer camp" that was supposed to be for K-6th graders, but because cousins- Morgan & Sydney are cheerleaders there we were able to get Halle in. Halle did an awesome job! And I LOVED IT!!!

Halle's Orientation

2007-09-06T06:36:00.000-07:00

August 29th, 2007 was Halle's preschool orientation.

Here is a picture from that day- with Carly of course!

Halle's 1st Day of Preschool

2007-09-06T06:11:00.001-07:00

Yesterday was Halle's first day of Preschool- (it was actually her 2nd year of preschool though). I think she tried on 6 or 7 different outfits- she couldn't decide what to wear! I'm not sure when I've had more fun- it was great watching her decide what to wear. Finally we had to decide on "the hair". I wanted 2 little piggies on top, with bows and curls. Halle however wanted no bows, no piggies and her hair "straight-long". As you can see, I let her win. It was afterall HER first day. I thought she looked beautiful! Dad said she looked a lot older and he didn't like that! We got Carly ready too- she still has a couple of years before her first day, but we can't leave her out! I thought I would be more emotional leaving Halle, but it honestly felt great! I'm sure it helps that leaving her at preschool is a lot like leaving her at Grandma's house since we've known Roxann for years! And her cousin Clay is also in her class which means she has a built-in friend. I totally enjoyed my afternoon alone with Carly- it's amazing how much you can get done with only one kid to look after! Anyway, here are a few pictures from yesterday-

I let Carly pick out a treat at the store- she wanted "Jake's treat"- which was Sour Ice Breakers mints- I thought "what the heck" if she doesn't eat them the boys will, but she did eat them- and had a really hard time even sharing!

When Carly and I got home from the store, she wanted some diet coke- I know, a bad habit I'm starting WAY too soon!

When Halle got home, she had HOMEWORK!! She was soo excited! She couldn't wait to do it- so I thought I better document this moment, it may never happen again!

1st Day of School- for the BOYS!!

2007-08-21T09:39:00.000-07:00

okay- update! When Kevin & I went to drop off the boys at school, I expected Scott to just say "see ya" and walk the opposite direction to his class- which he did. Though, he did add a "love ya" which always makes my heart melt! What I didn't expect was to take Jake to his class and have him say "see ya", wave and not want to give me a love bye. He sat down at his desk- across from his best friend Easton Keck and started playing with the Play-doh. I said, "Jake can I give you loves bye?" Jake says, "no". I said, "What if I just give you a hug and kiss you on the cheek?" Jake says, "no, mom. Bye." Now I'm begging him with a huge lump in my throat! I say, "PLEASE Jake, just a little love?" Luckily I got a little reinforcement from dad with - "just give her a love Jake so she'll go." So, he let me give him a quick hug a little peck on the cheek still met with oppostion and then I left. The entire way to work I was trying to tell myself it was okay, but I couldn't believe it! Scott was in the 4th grade before I stopped getting "loves" on the first day. And by then I had come to expect it- I was ready! They both had a great first day but, they're already asking when the next holiday break is! :)

Today was the 1st day of school for Scott and Jake. Scott is now in 6th grade and Jake is starting 1st grade! WOW!! I can't believe how time flies! Here are their 1st day of school outfits: (Carly wanted to be in the pictures- and we couldn't leave out Halle, so there's one of her too!)
We'll post Halle's pics when she starts pre-school after Labor day! I did take pictures of their backpacks and "cool shoes", but I really need to get back to work! :)

Lagoon

2007-08-21T09:20:00.000-07:00

On Friday, August 10th Nature's Sunshine had their annual Employee party at Lagoon! Scott took his friend Jade Nielsen and we met up with Alexa Nielsen (no relation) so Jake would have a "buddy". We had so much fun! Kevin, Scott, Jake and I all wrode Wicked- the newest ride at Lagoon. I think they measured Jake 4 times to make sure he was tall enough! We LOVED it! Here are some pics from that day:

Top: Jade, Scott & Jake with their "winnings"- which

they made sure they had enough prizes for each

little brother/sister that were at home!

Middle: Jake & Alexa

Bottom: Jade, Scott & Jake arriving at the park

Pioneer Day

2007-08-01T11:31:00.000-07:00

Here are some pictures from Pioneer day- first we went to the parade then later that night we took our kids & Zac and met Mike, Lisa, Clay & MaKaydee at the carnival. I don't know who had more fun; the kids or their dads!!

Rodeo

2007-08-01T08:08:00.000-07:00

The Lyman family went the the Fiesta Days Rodeo on July 23rd- it was Carly's first Rodeo! She loved it! Here are a few pictures from that night!

Sisters!

2007-08-01T08:04:00.001-07:00

Halle & Carly are great sisters!! Halle got the purse and boa (pictured w/Carly) for her birthday. Carly however, thought they should be hers! Luckily Halle didn't mind sharing! I did have Jake & Halle pretend to try and take them away from her and she would totally freak out! It was hilarious! I of course, got the whole thing on video too!

Ear Piercing!

2007-07-18T07:05:00.000-07:00

Halle wanted to get her ears pierced for her birthday. So on Friday, July 13th we went to the mall and got her ears pierced. Scott, Jake, Carly, Aunt Tami, Grandma Maureen and I were all there to "support" her. We thought for sure she would freak out, especially when they told us they had to do 1 ear at a time! But she was a "Big Girl" and "didn't even cry"! (Though I think I saw some tears in Grandma's eyes and both the boys "just couldn't watch" and said they were "waiting for her scream".) Halle loves her "diamonds" and shows anyone that looks her way!

*Before her ears were pierced.

*1st Ear

*2nd Ear

*All Done! There were no tears here!

**Here's Halle with Scott & Jake when it was all done! The boys picked out some pretty cute earrings and a darling purse (that Carly thinks is hers, but that's a different blog) at the mall to give her at her party. They really are such good brothers!

Halle's Princess Party

2007-07-17T07:22:00.000-07:00

Halle had her 4th birthday on Saturday, July 14th! Princess Belle came and sang some songs, took pictures with all the guests and helped Halle blow out her candles on her cake. She had so much fun! We loved it!

New Boat!

2007-07-17T07:16:00.000-07:00

Kevin bought a boat! He wanted to find something that our whole family would enjoy and a boat seems to be the answer! Here are pics from our very first family voyage! Everyone had a great time! Even Carly!

HOMERUN!!!

2007-07-03T07:30:00.000-07:00

I have NEVER missed any of Scott's games- NEVER! And last night I had to do some birthday shopping for Halle and I missed Scott's very 1st over the fence HOMERUN!! Grandma Maureen & Kevin were there, but I seriously almost cried! (And don't even think of suggesting that maybe I miss a few more games so he'll hit more homeruns! :) Anyway, here is a picture of him standing in Centerfield next to the 200 mark where his ball cleared the fence by 15 feet! We're so proud & excited of Scott!

Homestead

2007-07-03T07:23:00.000-07:00

This past weekend we went to the Homestead in Midway, UT for the Bowen Family Reunion. Here are a couple of pictures- the first one (if you look REALLY close) is Carly's first curls! And the other one is of all my kids- Halle (almost 4), Carly (almost 17 mos.), Scott (11) & Jake (6). We had a lot of fun and can't wait to go again next year!

T-Ball

2007-07-03T07:14:00.000-07:00

Here are some pictures from Jake's last T-ball game. He was a GREAT little player! First picture: Carly giving "Loves" to her daddy, 2nd: Jake, Clay & Halle, 3rd: Clay & Halle "Cheesing it", & 4th: MVP Jake!

Halle was SPEECHLESS!!

2007-06-28T12:07:00.000-07:00

Halle got to meet her very favorite Princess today- Princess Belle!! Halle was actually speechless for a couple of minutes, if you can believe it?! They met to take some pictures for Halle's birthday party next month. (Which Belle will be coming to- yeah!)

Getting Started

2007-06-07T07:03:00.000-07:00

Okay, I'm all set up- I'll see what I can do about pictures later. This is a great idea!