Livin' It Up in Lenexa

Guest Bathroom Makeover

2012-01-11T14:06:00.000-06:00

We built this house 5 1/2 years ago. SO TIRED of the tan flat paint. I finally said this is the year to bring in some color (and semi-gloss). Mike and I attempted to do the girls' bathroom several years ago and decided that wasn't a good idea. So we hired the company that did the house originally to paint the girls' bedrooms and our kitchen. This time around I wanted to try it again myself. First stop: the guest bathroom. So over the weekend I took care of it. My original idea was to "stamp" Mickey head sillouettes in red, yellow, and black all over the stark white walls. Home Depot used to carry the rubber stamp to do that but hasn't had it for awhile. I attempted to make my own but what I used was too sippery for the paint and it basically smeared on the wall. So I bagged that idea. Then decided to paint the clock and frames in there in hopes of adding more color to the walls. I think it worked quite nicely. And in retrospect I think if I had done the stamping all over the walls it would have made the bathroom look cluttered or too busy. So this is my finished product. Now on to tackling the guest bedroom!

Approximately One Year Apart

2012-01-01T14:37:00.000-06:00

Left: Feb 2011 Right: Jan 1, 2012

An Olde Fashioned Holiday

2011-12-14T10:15:00.000-06:00

First annual holiday by Theatre in the Park. We had our choice of either Breakfast with Santa, a matinee luncheon, or a 5-course dinner music theatre. We decided on the breakfast for the girls. It was held at Mildale Farm which is operated by our JoCo Parks and Rec. Really neat place to have a wedding reception. May have to keep this in mind! Had a great buffet breakfast with fruit, eggs, bacon, pancakes, and danishes. The local Bell Choir performed and the girls got to make ornaments for the tree. What a fun Saturday morning activity!

Ice Skating

2011-12-12T11:55:00.000-06:00

Spur of the moment weekend activity to go ice skating at The Ice at Park Place. Had a great time! We were the only ones there for a little while. Girls had a total blast. Mike cut it short because of a blister but we definately plan on going back! Lunch right next door at in*gre*di*ent. It was pretty yummy. And being able to watch the other ice skaters while we ate lunch was fun. I love the outdoor shopping at Park Place in Leawood.

Thanksgiving 2011

2011-12-12T11:49:00.000-06:00

Oh so much yummy food! Decided we need a buffet table in our dining room. With a full table and 8 guests we ran out of room. Had good friends over for Thanksgiving dinner. Played the candy bar game afterwards. Then headed to AMC to see Breaking Dawn much to the excitement of our 12 year old.

Centennial Celebration

2011-12-12T11:40:00.001-06:00

Living by so many church history sites has its advantages. We were able to attend the Centennial Celebration of the Three Witnesses Monument in Richmond, MO. This is where Oliver Cowdery is buried. We then headed on over to Liberty MO where a new monument has been dedicated. It is a monument to the Eight Witnesses of the Book of Mormon. It is in a very nondescript place on someones farm that was researched by the church. What a great experience! We don't get the Church News anymore but I'm wondering if our picture was in it? Our 15 minutes of fame.

First Choir Concert

2011-11-15T12:03:00.000-06:00

Savannah decided that she wanted to give choir a try this year and she is loving it. Their fall concert was about a week ago. Her middle school does not combine the boys and girls. They have Women's Choir, Women's Chorale, and Men's Choir. Its not anything like GLEE but they did a great job. Reminds me of how much fun I had during all four years of high school choir (especially A'Cappella and Madrigals). What great memories!

Mexican Riviera Disney Cruise

2011-11-09T12:23:00.002-06:00

Family picture formal night on Disney Wonder.

This all started with my bucket list of going to Disneyland at Halloween, Christmas and doing a Disney Cruise. I can now cross all three items off. We had been planning this trip for quite some time and was a surprise for the girls. As far as they knew, we were going to Wichita for my birthday. We didn't even tell them what state we were going to. So we get to the airport Friday evening and they see we are flying to CA. However, they did not know what we were doing when we got there. Saturday morning we got up and spent the day at Disneyland and California Adventure. Our home away from home. I always LOVE how they decorate for Halloween. And I find it very redneck that we take a picture of a picture on the rides so we don't have to pay $20 for them. It was a very long day with the park being open from 8a to Midnight.

Then Saturday morning the girls got a call from Mickey Mouse welcoming them to the Disney Cruise Line. They were estatic! We were able to eat a liesurely breakfast because we couldn't get on the ship until 11:00. I always like getting on ships early so we have a chance to go around and take pictures before the crowds get there. I don't think we were the only ones with that idea though. While we waited in the port they had of course Disney cartoons showing on a big screen for the kids and there is always Nintendo. This trip cost us enough for 7 whole days so we weren't willing to fork out the extra buco bucks for an outside cabin. You're only there to sleep and there is really not a whole lot to see anyway in the dark. In the middle of the ocean. Our ship was the Disney Wonder. Not one of the biggest ships we've been on by far but one of the pools had a slide and the other had a huge movie screen. Ahoy mateys!

These are some of the photos we got our first day on board. The lobby where the staff introduces each family and welcomes them on board, Studio Sea where many a game were played and music into the night, Animaters Palate one of the main dining areas that turn from black and white to color as you progress through your meal, and Parrots Cay a more island themed dining area that was serving lunch when we got on.

Some activites going on around the ship. Each of the main shows at night were Disney themed (0f course). Haylie LOVED meeting Princess Tiana along with all the other princesses and characters. Breakfast was always a hit. Their ice sculpting team made this eagle out of a huge block of ice in just 15 minutes.

Had several celebrations while on board. Celebrated my 45th birthday on Monday the 24th. Our dining room staff sang Happy Birthday and I received this little treat after dinner. That rectangle birthday wish was entirely chocolate. And because it was a week before Halloween they hosted trick-or-treating for the kids around the ship (my girls filled their entire halloween baskets), a costume contest, and dancing way into the night. Mike's costume was a piece of cake. However the girls and I thought he should bring home some TRUE bloody scrubs from a heart case and wear those. I loved this mask I bought from Halloween Express but couldn't think up a costume to go with it in time. Maybe next year. Savannah went as Tinker Bell and Haylie was a glow in the dark bride. Don't you just love the zombie look on her face?

Our first stop was in Puerto Vallarta. It was chilly coming in that morning and I thought. Good grief this is Mexico, its always supposed to be warm! But warm up it did and we had a great time kayaking and snorkeling at the Marietas Islands. The caves were really cool but the islands are only open several months during the year as the rest of the time its covered by water. Our boat crew was a hoot. They had lunch and drinks prepared for us and also a show and music. Our tour left at 7:30a so Savannah and Haylie basically slept the entire ride out there.

Our next stop was Cabo San Lucas. This was a FUN port. If you have ever been to Mexico you know the shop keepers bug you to buy their wares. That can get a little old. However, we did snorkeling at Santa Maria Beach. This was probably not the best part of the year to go because the water was so murky that I couldn't see anything. I was a little disappointed in that. However, the catamaran ride over was a blast and we got soaking wet sitting in front on the mesh area.

Because of the strife in Mazatlan this port was cancelled so we spent another day in Cabo. The girls actually wanted to stay on the ship so Mike and I went in town again to shop and hit the local Hard Rock Cafe. We collect their hurricane glasses and now have #35 from all the HRC's we've been to. One night was Pirate Night on the ship complete with a pirate midnight buffet, show, and fireworks. I think the highlight was getting our picture with "Captain Jack". He wasn't Johnny Depp but absolutely a hit all the same (or is that hot)?

Other activities we had were a character breakfast where each one came to our table and we got their autographs. Spent plenty of time in the pool. Our surprise on the last day was to present the girls with pillow cases I had signed by all the characters. I purchased two pillow cases and a package of 12 colored sharpies before we left Kansas City. Took them to the Guest Services desk on the first day and asked them to have the characters sign them for the girls. It is such a fun souviner to bring back!

Over all this was a fabulous trip with my husband and girls. I just don't know if Disney would be my cruiseline of choice. We have been on Holland America, Norweigan, Carnival, Disney, and Royal Caribbean. Disney most definately caters to the children and I knew that going into it. However, by Thursday I was a little weary of the Disney theme. The food wasn't as good as we get on RC and they didn't have a casino, rock climbing wall, flowrider, library, mini putt putt, or an ice skating rink. They did have two other entertainment genres that featured a comedy team and a ventriliquist and they were hilarious. But overall as my choice I would stick with RC. Or maybe just not a 7 day cruise with Disney. I might feel a little better about a 3 or 4 day. Even Disneyland gets old for me after 4 days. The funny thing is Mike and I are going on another cruise in March with my sister and her husband on Carnival to Cabo San Lucas! Can't wait for a "true vacation" where I get a break from my stay home mom "job"!

Thought This Day Would Never Come

2011-10-06T11:50:00.000-05:00

After 7 long months I am halfway to my goal weight. 40 pounds are gone for good but stay tuned for continued progress on the next 40.

Louisburg KS 1882

2011-09-24T21:53:00.004-05:00

Louisburg KS; gotta love small-town America! Oh how I love going to the Louisburg Cider Mill during the fall. Ciderfest is such a fun community activity. They make their own cider on location and cider donuts. We have actually never been to the opening day of Ciderfest so this was a fun day for our family. Lots of craft booths set up, live music, food, shopping, corn maze, inflateables, and so much fun.

Happy Fall everyone!

MT vs CST Drill Team Performance

2011-09-23T14:04:00.000-05:00

Sorry this was so dark. Forgot our camcorder and had to use the camera. MT Drill Team performance during half-time. Savannah is the back row on the left in the middle.

MT vs CST

2011-09-23T13:54:00.000-05:00

First night game of the season. Was loads of fun! Close game but we pulled it off by the end of the game. And did I mention I REALLY LIKE these 8 minute quarters in middle school football as opposed to the standard 15 minutes!!!

Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts

2011-09-19T12:05:00.002-05:00

This place is pretty spectacular. Free Open House yesterday that we went to.

Weight Loss

2011-09-17T15:29:00.005-05:00

I just had to make a comment on My Fitness Pal tracker to your right. I really wish it said ** lbs gone. I have NO INTENTION of ever 'finding' these 'lost' pounds again!

Runnin' With the Wolves

2011-09-17T14:24:00.003-05:00

It was supposed to be 72* today for this race. Not even. This is the first annual Runnin' With the Wolves 5K. Mike registered to run and Savannah and Drill Team volunteered throughout the route. We had to be there at 7am which was a little too early for little Haylie.

The race started at 8a with runners and walkers. Mike's time was 24:12. They rented some inflatables for the kids and then this place provided breakfast. They are pretty well-known around these parts. We had pancakes, sausage, and juice (and I brought bacon from home).

This design is being completed by the MT Art Department. Pretty cool timberwolf if you ask me!

Old Settlers Days 2011

2011-09-10T18:37:00.002-05:00

The fam was up at 6am this morning to get ready for fun. Got to downtown Olathe early to nab our seats for the parade. MTMS drill team, band, and cheerleaders were one of the entries.

Parade started at 10am so we headed over to one of the parking lots to check out the car show. Oldest one there was a 1912 Ford. And of course we had to take a pic with Mater! We had such an awesome time! I can't believe in the entire 8 years we've been here that we've never gone to this shindig. We ran into our neighbors the Oberle's and hung out with them for lunch and checking out all the booths. The girls were allowed to bring $20 of their own money and they definately spent it!

Olathe Northwest High School is the one our girls will go to so I had to get a pic of them. Local funeral home had an awesome entry. One of our young men in our ward "CW" was an entry also. He is really into building robotics and I think won first place at some competition.

And then came our Timberwolves! Unfortunately we weren't at a place where the drill team did their routine so all I got was them marching. Savannah looked gorgeous and had a great time. Her friend Parker plays trumpet in the marching band. ;-)

Happy Birthday Kansas! 150 years old!

8th Grade Football Game

2011-09-09T14:34:00.000-05:00

First drill team performance at football game half-time! We didn't stay for the entire game but we were up 14 - 6 at the half. Go MT!

Labor Day Festivities

2011-09-07T11:08:00.000-05:00

What an awesome holiday weekend! From my previous post Mike and I went to the Royals game Friday night. Saturday was a day of football. USU vs Auburn 42-38 but it was a GREAT game. BYU vs Ol' Miss hanging on by a thread 14-13. Sunday was church and Savannah had her friend Heather sleep over. Also had a spontaneous block party that night. Can anyone say hot dog? I bet we had about 50 people show up. This does not however take the place of our annual Halloween Block Party so stay tuned for more pictures later. Monday morning our ward had a 5K run and pancake breakfast. Mike's friend Ryan from grad school was actually out in the area on vacation from Utah and decided to run it with him. Mike came in #4 out of all 50 entries. Later that night we had our good friends the Whites over for a BBQ and back yard games. Just total loads of fun this weekend!

Date Nights

2011-09-03T07:23:00.002-05:00

Two weekends, two sports. I LOVE living in a city where there are two major league teams! However, we did lose both games but thats ok. The fun is in just being there! Kansas City Chiefs vs St Louis Rams 14-10

Kansas City Royals vs Cleveland Indians 5-4

Haylie's Half

2011-08-20T14:50:00.002-05:00

So Haylie, having a February birthday has never been able to do something outdoors for her birthday. She has always wanted a swim party. So this year we bagged a friend party in Feb and just went to Shogun as a family. So the year progresses and we still are aiming for a swim party. Well, August rolls around and she is now 9 1/2 and she decides she wants a party at this place. We could have done this indoor party during her actual birthday! Everyone had fun though. She had a couple of girls from church and then a bunch from school. We even ran into her 4th grade teacher on the way in! They got to play all over for an hour then it was pizza, root beer, cake and ice cream.

First Day!

2011-08-16T16:12:00.000-05:00

Haylie started 4th Grade on 8/15/11 and Savannah in 7th Grade 8/16/11. Have a great year ladies!

Handyman

2011-08-16T16:10:00.000-05:00

Because the girls had so much fun at the fair before the Nauvoo Pageant, they REALLY wanted some stilts. So a trip to Home Depot, $120, and 4 hours later this is the result....

They are really good at walking on them.

Marceline, MO

2011-08-16T16:08:00.002-05:00

If any of you are Disney fans like our family is, then you should know about this place. This was Walt Disney's boyhood home. On every trip to Nauvoo we have to stop on our way home. The "dreaming tree" and barn are on private property but they still allow visitors. You can sign your name with a sharpie inside the barn. We couldn't remember where we did a couple of years ago so we did it again and took a picture this time. Nice, quiet, little place.

Nauvoo 2011

2011-08-16T16:01:00.001-05:00

We decided since it had been a few years that we needed to take another drive to here. We were worried about the weather because our July had been so hot. But it really wasn't too bad. When the sun went down it had cooled off and made for an enjoyable pageant. We also drove out to Carthage to see the jail. We love eating at this place. It is YUMMY! I got our room down the street so the girls were close enough. Mike and I were FINALLY able to go to a temple session together! Very convenient having a live-in sitter these days. We took our normal route home to experience my next post.

MFP NSV

2011-07-16T21:16:00.003-05:00

That is short for My Fitness Pal Non-Scale Victory. I try to keep my family blog and fitness goals separate ( until I post a final blog with end results). But I was so happy with a Non-Scale Victory that I wanted to post it. I see my OB/GYN every September. In 2010 when I went; my BP was borderline Prehypertension at 138/??. Can't remember what the bottom number was. Since starting my fitness goals 18 weeks ago I was curious to know what it is now at my current weight. We have a personal BP cuff at home so I had hubby take my BP. Totally excited. 122/77! If you weren't aware; anything less than 120/80 is normal. SO happy. Can't wait to do it again in another 18 weeks.

Art of the Brick

2011-07-09T21:41:00.002-05:00

Saw this great exhibit today at Washburn University Mulvane Art Museum in Topeka. Nathan Sawaya out of NYC makes sculptures completely out of LEGOS. This was only a small sampling of his work, but I'm glad we took the girls out there to see it. I'm sure it doesn't compare to LEGOLand but this was pretty awesome.

July 4, 2011

2011-07-06T13:00:00.000-05:00

Made it to the Corporate Woods Star Spangled Specatacular. They always put on an awesome show. Bob & Janet's family met us there too. Lots of people to watch, the weather was just perfect, and the show was good. For some reason though it wasn't choreographed to music this year like is has been for the last 7 years. That was kind of disappointing and it took us a lot longer to get out of the parking lot than before. Good thing Mike was called off of work though so we didn't have to feel in a rush to get home.

Colorado Trip

2011-07-06T12:52:00.002-05:00

One of our vacations this year we decided to do a road trip to Colorado. This was literally less than 24 hours after we had arrived home from camping at Bennett Springs. I had just enough time to get all the laundry done and repacked Sunday afternoon before we left for CO on Monday morning. We drove straight through (which only took us 8 hours) and stayed at this quaint little place called The Rainbow Lodge and Inn in Manitou Springs. We had stayed there before and really liked it. Its not the Marriott or DoubleTree by any means; but a fun little touristy inn to stay at. Girls went swimming in the pool and we had a yummy dinner at The Mason Jar. Tuesday we drove 2 hours through the mountains to Mt Princeton Hot Springs Resort. We did horseback riding, swam in their pools (one was 105* - absolutely divine) and ate at the lodge. Our room was one of the poolside rooms which overlooked the Upper Pool which had a 300 ft slide. The girls totally dug that. Next day was the main reason we went. Whitewater rafting! We chose River Runners as our guides. The water was freezing cold as it was still spring runoff. We suited up in wet suits, booties, jackets, and helmets. Mike and I have done river rafting out of Jackson Hole WY before, but this was Savannah and Haylie's first time. Other than being a little cold I think they liked it. At least we have the pictures to prove they have smiles on their faces! It was a 9 mile trip down the Arkansas River. We had so much fun we may come back in the winter and take them snowmobiling! After two days at the resort we drove back to Manitou Springs and did the Pikes Peak Cog Railway. We could have just driven on the road to the top ourselves but this was a lot more fun. We grabbed lunch at the cafe to take on the train to eat on the way up. Pikes Peak is 14,110 feet high. And after being acclimated to an elevation of only 1019 feet for the last 8 years; my legs were a tad wobbly. Drove through Garden of the Gods which looks A LOT like St George UT. Mike went back the next morning to run through it. Our final day in CO we spent the day/night in Denver. Went to the Heritage Square Family Entertainment Village. I couldn't tell if they were in the process of expanding or if it had been around for a long time and they were refurbishing. There were maybe only 5 shops that were up and running, one place to eat, a little amusement park most likely geared for kids under 7 and then their Alpine Slide. THAT was awesome! We each got three rides down and was the highlight of Denver. Lunch was at a little place called Casa Bonita. It was a fun place. My lunch was fine (I had heard the food wasn't something to write home about). The cliff divers were pretty cool and the girls liked watching the entertainment. Our final meal however was at good ol' The Old Spaghetti Factory. This was a staple when we were living in UT but the closest one now is in St Louis. There used to be one in downtown KC but they closed up shop in 1998. We email them on a regular basis to come back. June was so busy with drill team camp, church girls camp, camping, and Colorado trip that it is SO nice to be home and relax for awhile. We've got grandparents coming out for a visit and Haylie's swimming lessons but that is it. Time to catch our breath.

Camping

2011-07-06T12:20:00.001-05:00

I think its been a couple of years since we've gone camping. This time we went with Bob & Janet Whitmore and their two kids to Bennett Springs State Park. It was about a 3 hour drive from home to central MO. Passed through funny little town called Tightwad. Do you think they lock their doors? We took Lacie with us but I don't think she likes camping. Mike took the girls trout fishing and Savannah caught two! It isn't a place if you want to get real rustic. We went swimming in the pool, ate at the restaurant a couple of times and took advantage of the showers. It was a lot of fun. Bob & Janet are going again in September and we may go with!

Black Bob Bay

2011-06-19T07:33:00.001-05:00

Savannah wanted to have another swim party for her birthday this year so we tried Black Bob Bay. She invited 12 of her friends with a mix from both church and school. We picked up a platter of Jimmy Johns sandwiches, had some chips and drinks, rented a shade shelter for 3 hours and let the girls have at it. The weather was perfect after a major thunderstorm the night before and one came through again at midnight after the party. I am mostly looking forward to having her as our built-in babysitter now! Woo hoo!

Drill Teamp Camp 2011

2011-06-16T16:18:00.001-05:00

We had to trade vacation weeks in order for Savannah to attend mandatory drill camp. However, she still has 3 practices that she will miss while we are gone. She had a great time. They learned 6 dances in 3 days and she says her legs hurt. REALLY? One of our local Hy-Vee grocery stores catered their lunches everyday and there was also a BBQ/Pool Party for the girls and their families. Nineteen girls made it onto the team for the upcoming year. I think she is going to TOTALLY enjoy 7th Grade!

Girls Camp 2011

2011-06-09T06:54:00.001-05:00

Two days after Savannah's birthday she was able to go to girls camp. She complained all year how she didn't want to go. She is having a blast! This year they chose Camp Bob White at Knob Noster State Park. I had to drive a to and from camp (twice) so she could attend drill team practice and pick up her uniforms so it made for a long day. She says they've jumped in the swimming pool with their clothes on, stayed up late, got up for optional exercise and having a ball. She missed out on rapelling but the hike was Wednesday. I knew she would like it as much as I did at Oakcrest.

Savannah Turns 12

2011-06-09T06:37:00.001-05:00

Twelve years ago Savannah joined our family. Each of us gets to pick where we want to go for our birthday dinner. Savannah chose Cheesecake Factory. This is the look of pure joy. She finally got her cell phone. However, this also comes with some serious restrictions. We weren't quite ready to go home after dinner so we headed to Incred-a-bowl. They have bowling, laser tag, mini putt putt and this thing called The Vault. Her big friend party will be at a local water park later this month.

Go Royals!

2011-06-09T06:32:00.000-05:00

Our first game of the season. Lost to the Twins 5-2. Bummer. However, it was Buck Night and Fireworks Friday. Hot dogs, peanuts, and Pepsi are all $1. Think Mike and I will head for another game later in the year and get better seats. Hy-Vee seats were just $8.50 that night. Talk about a "cheap date". :-)

Joplin MO #2 (Monday)

2011-06-02T21:02:00.000-05:00

On our way back to Kansas City we wanted to drive through Joplin again to see if we could get any closer to the damage. I think because it was a holiday we were actually able to get on 20th Street and follow the path of the tornado from St John's Regional Medical Center East to the area where it disintegrated. The local Stake Center of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints was across the street from the high school, but we couldn't even tell what building it was.

Pictures explain more than I could ever say........

The Crescent Hotel

2011-06-02T20:56:00.001-05:00

Sunday night I needed a break from the kids. My MIL stayed with the girls at the pool while Mike and I did the Crescent Hotel Ghost Tour. Anyone that knows me, knows I LOVE the paranormal. I like ghost stories, paranormal movies, I watch Ghost Hunters religiously.

TAPS actually did an episode at this hotel and it was AMAZING! I really didn't think I would see anything, but the hotel was really neat none-the-less.

Historic Eureka Springs (Sunday)

2011-06-02T20:50:00.001-05:00

After a leisurely breakfast we walked around Eureka Springs. TONS of little shops and eateries! Was able to leave the truck at the hotel and take the city trolley around. That was pretty convenient. We stayed in a 3 bedroom "apartment" type place. Full kitchen and living room, 2 bathrooms and a pool view. Was right across the street from a fun little ice cream parlour and right next door to Pizza Hut. Though most of the time we ate at places we didn't have in Kansas City.

Eureka Springs, AR (Saturday)

2011-06-02T20:45:00.001-05:00

After the museum we drove on in to Eureka Springs. The main reason for this trip was to share with my husband and girls The Great Passion Play. I remember seeing it A LONG time ago when I was 12 with my Grammy and two Great Aunts. It is a play that tells the story of the the last week in Christ's life.

We couldn't have asked for better weather. It was cool and breezy. This statue of Christ (Christ of the Ozarks) was built in 1966. It is 65.5 feet tall and can be seen for miles. In comparison The Great Sphinx of Giza is 66 feet. The ampitheatre seats 4100 people for this annual play. A piece of the original Berlin Wall has also been donated to the area.

Bentonville, AR (Friday)

2011-06-02T20:34:00.001-05:00

Later that evening we arrived for an overnight stay in Bentonville, AR. I have always wanted to see the WalMart Museum there. I bought a cute little tree ornament that is the Walton's 5-10 building. Within the museum they had reconstructed his office as it was the day he passed away. Across the street was an awesome town square. A water fountain graced the center and their weekly Farmers Market was going on. People were wandering around, walking their dogs, buying produce and other items. It was great! If I didn't have two girls to keep entertained by zoos, neighborhood pools, amusement parks, etc I would not mind living in a small town.

Bentonville is very close to Rogers, AR where we had dinner at some restaurant I can't remember the name of. But you can understand why we absolutely HAD to get our picture taken in front of the city sign.

Joplin #1

2011-06-02T20:27:00.000-05:00

We were headed down for Arkansas for the Memorial Day weekend and decided to drive through Joplin, MO to see the damage the EF5 tornado caused on May 22. It was surreal. We were only able to drive north on Hwy 71 Business (also known as Ridgeview). And these were the pictures we were able to capture. Notice how the Sutherlands sign is wrapped around the pole?

KC Zoo and Tornado

2011-06-02T20:22:00.000-05:00

Well, these are the only pictures we got of the zoo on Wednesday May 25th. We got to the zoo about 10:00a and were only there a good hour or so and then the tornado sirens went off. Now usually we don't go to our basement unless I actually see something out our window (which I never have in the 8 years we've lived here). Knock on wood. But as we were at the zoo; all the employees are sent around gathering everyone up to the basements and thats where we spent a good hour with all the people. Not fun. When the warning was lifted it was blue skies and gorgeous but we decided to head for lunch and home. We'll try it again this summer.

Savannah's Awards Assembly

2011-05-24T13:31:00.002-05:00

Savannah had her awards ceremony yesterday. She got 7!

Prinicpals' Honor Roll

The Ever After Play

Hollywood Hillbillies Play

Excellence in Science

Excellence in Language Arts

Excellence in Social Studies

Solo/Enemble Competition

Way to go Savannah!

Worlds of Fun

2011-05-24T13:09:00.003-05:00

Had an awesome day here. It is a Cedar Fair park that owns the likes of Knotts Berry Farm. The day was gorgeous and very crowd free. Savannah and Haylie love Spinning Dragons roller coaster. Planet Snoopy is under a $8 million dollar expansion this year. And for the "big kid" rides. We LOVE The Prowler roller coaster, girls ride Boomerang several times over. Us; not so much. And the piece de' resistance: The Mamba. At 205 feet tall and 75 mph it is da bomb!

Awards Ceremony

2011-05-13T21:30:00.000-05:00

Haylie's end of year awards ceremony. She received pins this year for 5 different venues to put on her lanyard. Maybe by the time of her last year as a 5th grader both sides will be full!

Spring Orchestra Concert

2011-05-13T21:27:00.000-05:00

Last orchestra concert of the school year. Savannah has come a long way. I hope she keeps this up!

First Annual Temple 5K Run

2011-04-30T14:05:00.002-05:00

Glorious day today for a run. About 1600 people signed up to do this 5K near the Kansas City Temple. Saw several people from our ward. Mike did his in 25 minutes. Stopped at The Legends at Panera for lunch outside with Lacie. Fun day!

Drill Team Spring Show

2011-04-30T14:02:00.000-05:00

First performance for Savannah as a member of the 2011-12 Drill Team. Show included kids picked from the talent show, the 2010-11 Cheerleaders and Drill Team. Look forward to having more pics as we go along throughout this experience of hers.

Easter Eve

2011-04-23T19:17:00.000-05:00

12 colors: 10 eggs: 2 baskets. Getting ready for the Easter Bunny. Not doing the "fake plastic grass" this year in the baskets. It takes up too much space and is just a big mess and gets thrown out every year anyway. Hope the bunny is ok with that.

Easter Egg Hunt

2011-04-16T15:26:00.001-05:00

A little bit chilly earlier this afternoon but went to a local egg hunt. This was at the Stone Pillar Vineyard & Winery. Most of the rows were filled with eggs on the ground AND in the grape bushes. The girls had their row all to themselves and came back with a haul! The Easter Bunny was a little twisted so needless to say we didn't go see him. They had face painting and a catered lunch.

Science Project

2011-04-05T10:36:00.002-05:00

Savannah's Science class project. We decided to go the Diet Coke/Mentos route for her volcano. We had a lot of fun putting it together complete with camping scene. If I had thought about it earlier we could have done a whole LOST diorama complete with plane and DHARMA community!

First Recital

2011-04-05T10:31:00.002-05:00

Savannah performed at her first violin recital with a solo and a duet with her teacher Miss Sheri. She did a great job. Two days later she participated in her first ONW High School Solo Ensemble. What a great opportunity for her!

Phoenix

2011-03-21T13:31:00.000-05:00

Was able to get away for a short "Sisters Weekend" to my favorite city. The weather was absolutely perfect. Ranged anywhere from 81* to 92*. We did a lot of retail therapy, eating out (but I counted my calories of course), and soaking in the hot tub. Met my roommate from BYU Julie for lunch at Cafe Rio and chatted for a couple of hours. We did an endowment session in the Mesa Temple and it was packed. Spent a great deal of time in Old Town Scottsdale and ate at the Sugar Bowl (which is similar to Leatherbys for you UT folks). Was great to get away and was glad to come home to some nice sunny spring weather too!

We Have LOTS To Do!

2011-03-02T06:37:00.000-06:00

Pimpin' My Ride

2011-01-28T16:45:00.000-06:00

I've waited 10 years for this......

Christmas Day 2010

2010-12-28T12:28:00.000-06:00

Unfortunately I did not get a lot of pictures in this year. After going to bed at 2am and being woke up at 5am I was just too dang tired. The girls had a great haul and are busily playing with their new things today. My dad drove out from Utah to join us and we had our traditional Honeybaked Ham for dinner. Quite the mess to clean up. Our decorations have been up since before our Disneyland trip at Thanksgiving so I am anxious to take them down New Years Day and get back to normal.

Kansas Fall

2010-12-28T12:24:00.000-06:00

Though I think all huge fully grown trees in Kansas are really neat and offer a lot of shade. I am sure glad that this is all the leaves our two little trees in the front yard shed that need to be raked up.

Thanksgiving Week Vacation Day 1

2010-12-28T12:20:00.001-06:00

I have wanted to see Disneyland all dolled up for the holidays. So we decided to use Thanksgiving week to do that so the girls would only miss 2 days of school instead of 4 during Labor Day when we usually go. We picked up the rental car and headed down to San Diego. I could live out the rest of my life in that city. We of course had to drive by the San Diego temple. I think it is the prettiest the church has ever built. Then it was on to Coronado Island. Man I love that place. This place is my favorite to roam around. A bit rainy today so it was pretty quiet and not a lot going on. Our hotel was cute. It was a resort type place with a couple of pools, fitness area, and a really good restaurant. Rooms weren't that luxurious but it was a fun place all the same. And oh all the palm trees! Wish they would grow in Kansas. Ate downtown at Old Spaghetti Factory and it did not disappoint. Looking forward to a fun week.

Day 2

2010-12-28T12:08:00.000-06:00

Sea World. It was rainy and cold! I'm certainly glad we didn't bring shorts on this trip. I've been in California (high desert) in the fall/winter and that gets cold, but I didn't think San Diego would be this way. Needless to say there were not a lot of people there that day. I made the mistake of going on Atlantis and just couldn't get warm after that.

Day 3

2010-12-28T12:05:00.000-06:00

First day at Disneyland! It was busy. Come to find out that all of California schools are out for the entire week. Guess we should have checked on this before planning the trip. The park was decorated to the nines. It was spectacular. Our family block had been cleaned up and looked better than it did last year. The parade was really neat and the castle lights at night were amazing.

Day 4

2010-12-28T12:01:00.000-06:00

Knotts Berry Farm. Since we didn't want to hassle with a car we used the awesome OCTA transportation system. Just one bus change and we were there. Pretty slick. Even took the bus up to Fullerton to eat at Old Spaghetti Factory. Today was pretty crowded too. It was a bit chilly so we didn't even attempt the water rides. Had a great dinner at Mrs Knotts Chicken then went back to our hotel.

Day 6

2010-12-28T11:58:00.000-06:00

Today we spent most of the day in California Adventure. I thought Worlds of Color was pretty cool but it would be nice if they had everyone sit down. Us shorter adults couldn't even see the whole thing so I can't imagine was a kick in the pants it is for the kids.

Day 7

2010-12-28T11:55:00.000-06:00

Today we finished up what we wanted to do again. It is also the day after Thanksgiving. The freaking place was PACKED! We will never go to Disneyland on a holiday again. By this time I was pretty much pictured out so we got some of the Christmas Parade in the evening.

Hollywood Hillbillies

2010-11-03T10:28:00.003-05:00

The middle school did their first ever theatre production of this play. Cute Savannah is Marcello the dog. Her costume was darling and she did a fabulous job. They have another showing Thursday night. She was a little disappointed that she did not get a speaking part, but I just encouraged her to be the best dog that you could possible be. Everyone has to start somewhere. Good job Savannah!

Halloween 2010

2010-11-01T19:24:00.001-05:00

Ward Trunk-or-Treat. We had a Corpse Bride and Cutie Kitty. Weather was spectacular!

2010 Jack-O-Lanterns

2010-10-28T19:25:00.002-05:00

Mike: Mean Guy and Mickey Mouse
Ann: Holy Design
Savannah: Girl w/ Braces & Freckles
Haylie: Minion
Lacie: L

Spaced Out

2010-10-27T14:59:00.004-05:00

The elementary 3rd Grade performed their first program Spaced Out. Little Haylie bug was so cute. She really likes to sing. Afterwards we went with friends to this place. It is one of our favorite joints in the area. We much prefer New York style over Chicago style. But last night it was strictly for this ice cream that they sell. Yum!

Louisburg Cider Mill

2010-10-25T15:35:00.003-05:00

This last week we went here. This is one of our favorite places to go in the fall. We picked up some apple cider and apple donuts. Then we headed for this place trick-or-treating and crafts. Ended up with dinner here which is THE best steakhouse in the metro.

Bwah Ha Ha

2010-10-25T15:31:00.002-05:00

Just a few cute pics of our front home decor. I could spend a small fortune on halloween decor, but we're starting small.

Violinist

2010-10-25T15:23:00.002-05:00

Having a heck of a time posting my collages from Picasa. I am hoping this will work in the meantime. Savannah participated in the Fall Orchestra Concert at the middle school. She is pretty serious about this so she is now getting started in formal lessons. She looked so cute!

Haunted Halloween at Worlds of Fun

2010-10-18T14:59:00.001-05:00

Boy do we love halloween at Worlds of Fun. ! The weather is always gorgeous and its not as crowded as the summer time. It is a Cedar Fair park so the decorations are similar to Knotts Berry Farm which I totally adore. They do an awesome scare-free afternoon for the kids during the day and then at 7:00 the real scary stuff begins, starting with a parade of all the ghosts, goblins, and ghouls down the main avenue. Because we had the girls we left, but Mike and I were able to get to the extreme haunts last year and they are scary!

Kansas City Fall

2010-10-18T14:47:00.003-05:00

Took an afternoon to our favorite pumpkin patch. Such a fun farm to visit! However, we do stop and get our pumpkins at WalMart because I refuse to pay double for them at the farm. The girls fed the animals, dug for dinosaur "bones", played on the slides and strolled through the country store. Gotta love fall in Kansas!

Great Midwest Balloon Fest

2010-09-20T09:50:00.000-05:00

Had an awesome time Friday night at the balloon fest in Overland Park. There were 36 balloonists that participated. We arrived around 4:30 for the festivities and food. About 6:00 half of the hot air balloons lifted off. Then more food, fun, and music. When it got dark the other half stuck around for what they call the Night Glow. This is where the balloons are fully expanded but they run the propane fire to light them up. What a spectacular view. Can't wait until they do it again next year!

Bugs, Bugs, and More Bugs

2010-09-20T09:43:00.000-05:00

Once again we have a 3rd grader that had to do an insect display. Needless to say I left this up to Daddy. I can handle the monarch butterfly but everything else was just too gross. However she did get an A!!!

Colorado Springs

2010-09-13T08:39:00.000-05:00

We bought tickets back in April for the BYU/Air Force game this past weekend. It is only a 9 hour drive from here so it was doable. Mike didn't get out of the hospital until late so we drove as far as Salina KS on Thursday. Up on Friday to go the rest of the way. We wanted to stay in Manitou Springs and had this fun little motel called the Rainbow Inn. It was on the main drag into Manitou Springs and allowed pets. Since Lacie will have to stay in the kennel when we go to Disneyland we decided to take her with us on this trip. She loves roadtrips. First day we went to explore the Manitou Cliff Dwellings. Let me tell you, I am so glad for modern conveniences, though they were pretty cool. Went to this place called The Mason Jar which claims to have the best country fried steak in the nation. It was pretty good.

After dinner we wanted to check out all the shops. However we found it was similar to Keystone SD where they all closed up around 6p except for the dining establishments. So we were just able to walk up and down looking through the windows.

Saturday morning we dropped Lacie off at doggie day care and went horseback riding through Garden of the Gods. It was real pretty. About an hour on a horse is about all I can stand. Wasn't planning on getting as dusty as I did with all the red rock dust. The girls had an absolute blast though.

Saturday afternoon was the BYU/AF game. Unfortunately we were sitting on the side facing the sun and it was hot. Didn't matter that we were at an elevation of 6000 feet and the wind was blowing....it was still hot. Seeing the jets fly over was pretty cool but we ended up leaving during the 4th quarter because the cougars were loosing. I did run into an old high school friend though. We wanted to get some miles behind us that night so we made it as far as Hays KS before stopping for the night.

The game was a bust, but the weekend in and of itself was a lot of fun.

Labor Day Fun

2010-09-07T14:44:00.000-05:00

It seems weird to spend Labor Day at home this year. This is normally the time we are doing our annual Disneyland trip. However, we are doing that later this year so we spent the holiday at home. Our ward had a breakfast at the lake at Shawnee Mission Park. We had pancakes, breakfast cassarole, fruits, muffins, donuts and juice. We however cooked up some of our own bacon and brought it with us. We had an inflatable jumer for the kids, volleyball, and the guys played touch football. It was an absolute beautiful morning!

The weather was perfect and the lake looked absolutely divine so we decided to go back that afternoon for a little boating. You can only have non-motorized watercraft so we hauled our inflatable raft over for a little fun. We even took little Lacie for a cruise. Not so sure she liked the water but this was her first time in a lake. We then took her over to the off-leash dog area and walked down to their "swimming beach". I think she was the smallest one there.

After an exhausting day outdoors we came home, showered, got KFC and watched Boise State win their football game. All in all a great holiday!

Haylie First Day 3rd Grade

2010-08-17T08:03:00.002-05:00

Haylie is starting school today at Cedar Creek Elementary. She is now officially a 3rd grader. She has Mrs Harris for her teacher which I am totally stoked about. Savannah had Mrs Harris when she was in 4th grade and I'd go to the school one day a week to help out with both teachers for an entire day. Had a blast. Looking forward to doing it again this year.

Our Middle Schooler

2010-08-16T09:30:00.000-05:00

Today starts the first day of school for Savannah. Mission Trail Middle School Timberwolves. She is so excited. They had a pancake breakfast for the 6th graders done by our local Chris Cakes. We got to meet the wolf mascot and our local Fox 4 news station was there for the story of this brand new school. Its going to be an awesome year!

Today Was the Day

2010-08-11T16:08:00.000-05:00

Our sweet 11 year old got her braces today. She was so excited. She chose BYU blue, pink and lilac for her band colors. Here's looking toward the next 24 months!

Western Caribbean Cruise

2010-08-11T16:06:00.000-05:00

We were able to spend a week with 21 of our 23 extended family members (including my 94 year old grandmother), cruising the caribbean. This was #10 for me but the first time on Carnival Cruise Lines. Our ship was the Carnival Legend. Our family got into Tampa FL early on Saturday morning so we spent the day at Busch Gardens. But for the life of me I can't find what I did with the collage! Needless to say it was hot, humid, and crowded. At one point we were actually ready to leave. However, we got in on a really good deal. With each ticket we also got an all day, all-you-can-eat/drink wristband for no extra charge so that was pretty nice. Once we got on the ship we went around to take pictures before it got too crowded.

We grabbed some lunch on the Lido deck and at 4p watched the city of Tampa go by. VERY expensive homes down that road. I thought the little lighthouse at the end was a nice touch. Not sure if it actually does any good but just there for looks. The kids had to take advantage of the pool right away.

Read on for the week in pictures. Everyone had an uber-fabulous time and we are so grateful for the generousity of my grandmother in allowing all of us to do this. Thanks Grammy!

Day 2 Random Ship Pics

2010-08-11T15:59:00.000-05:00

Day 2 was a sail day so we spent our day with activities on the ship. These are just random pics of that day.

Day 3 Cayman Islands

2010-08-11T15:57:00.000-05:00

Part of our day in Grand Cayman we spent in Stingray City. That was an awesome experience. Haylie was able to hold and kiss one of the stingrays. It was pretty cool that out in the middle of this big ocean there was a sandbar that was only 3 feet deep where we snorkeled. Kids were so excited and had their snorkel gear on way ahead of time.

This was our 2nd time to the Boatswain Turtle Farm. Our tour guide talked a little about the turtles (they eat them a lot) then we were able to actually pick them up. Funny thing is, they like to have their chin rubbed.

Day 4 Cozumel

2010-08-11T15:52:00.000-05:00

This was our 4th time to Cozumel Mexico so we really weren't interested in sightseeing. We got off the ship and did a little shopping in the area. Had to have lunch at Pancho's Backyard again. Best mexican food I've ever had. We didn't want to go downtown, but the shopping area was really built up since we were there in 2007. Cute little beach side area off the restaurant with palm trees, white sand, and lounge chairs to people watch.

Random Pics

2010-08-11T15:49:00.000-05:00

Just some pictures of our cabin #4-154, the elevator in the atrium, and the divinely sinful Warm Chocolate Melting Cake that we had every night for dessert.

Day 5 Mahagony Bay (Roatan)

2010-08-11T15:47:00.001-05:00

Today was spent on Isla Roatan which is off the coast of Honduras. We decided to make this a beach day instead of taking a shore excursion. This was a man made beach and shopping area done by Carnival so there wasn't much to see, but it was a beautiful beach.

Day 6 Belize

2010-08-11T15:45:00.000-05:00

We spent the day in Belize and went snorkeling at Goff's Caye. This was absolutely amazing. This is the biggest coral reef next to the Great Barrier Reef in Australia. We saw SO many things. We have been snorkeling lots of times, but this was probably the most picturesque. The water was so beautiful. This was a little island that we spent a few hours on out in the middle of nowhere.

Day 6 Formal Night

2010-08-11T15:42:00.000-05:00

There were two formal nights on board where you had to dress very nicely for dinner. No we didn't want to do the tux and gown thing but we did wear our Sunday best.

Day 6

2010-08-11T15:40:00.000-05:00

Camp Carnival had a Family Digital Scavenger Hunt while on board where you had to take pictures of everything on the list. We had to do the chicken dance in the pool, take a picture of every deck, do a conga line, and go down the water slide. Haylie got her face painted and our waiter made some cute napkin items.

Day 7

2010-08-11T15:38:00.000-05:00

These were some pictures taken around the ship on Saturday. Caught a beautiful sunset somewhere in the Gulf of Mexico. We played cards A LOT. Learned a new game from my sister called Progressive Rummy. LOVED IT!

Day 8 Tampa Lowry Park Zoo

2010-08-11T15:36:00.000-05:00

We all got off the boat Sunday morning. Most of the group was headed back to Salt Lake City with one family headed to Portland OR. We were on a later flight back home so we went to the Lowry Park Zoo. It is rated as the #1 zoo in the country and it was pretty neat. The girls were able to feed a giraffe and the birds. A freak rainstorm hit Tampa while we were waiting at the airport so we go a little bit of a late start but not too bad. We had an awesome time!

Summer 2010

2010-08-11T14:45:00.000-05:00

Finished up swimming lessons in July. Savannah has passed off all 6 levels. Haylie will be in Level 5 next year. Way to go girls!

A Celebration of Heritage

2010-07-24T19:55:00.000-05:00

Today is July 24 and no, we did not celebrate the pioneers arriving in Utah. Our family went to discover the heritage of our current area; Leavenworth, KS. Now if you know anything about the military; Leavenworth is where individuals in the military were sent to fulfill their debt to society. Leavenworth is only a 30 minute drive north of our home. It is the first city incorporated in the state of Kansas and Fort Leavenworth is known as the post that opened the West and is the oldest fort in continuous use west of the Mississippi. Melissa Ethridge was raised in this city. Lewis and Clark passed through in July 1804, Abraham Lincoln came in 1859 seeking the Republican nomination for President, John Wilkes Booth performed here in 1863, Susan B Anthony ran a newspaper. The Federal Penitentiary has held such criminals as George "Machine Gun" Kelly, Manuel Noreiga, and the Bird Man of Alcatraz: Robert Stroud served 28 years at Leavenworth before being transferred to Alcatraz. Buffalo Bill Cody is a native son, Wild Bill Hickok lived here for a time and met Calamity Jane while she was here. Fred Harvey of the Harvey House restaurants bought a mansion and lived there until his death. Generals Custer, Sherman, MacArthur, Eisenhower, Patton and Powell have walked these streets. The prison was the largest maximum security prison in the US until 2005. The walls are 40 feet high and 40 feet below ground. Fort Leavenworth is open to the public, but everyone over 16 must show a picture ID. They have a museum on site with relics from history (including the carriage Abraham Lincoln rode in). President Regan donated 3 pieces of the Berlin Wall to the Fort.

We took the local city trolley tour around town with a very informative driver. Passed some very historic homes, and the girls took a ride on the C.W. Parker Carousel. Charles Wallace Parker made Leavenworth, KS the carousel capital of the world by producing more carousels in Leavenworth than in any other city in the US. He brought his amusement company to Leavenworth in 1910. On display was the oldest operating, hand cranked, wooden carousel built around 1860 which is on loan from the National Carousel Association. We had lunch at Homer's which has been around since 1931. I didn't have one but their root beer floats looked divine.

What a wonderful day to experience the history of Kansas.

Fun in the Sun

2010-07-19T12:42:00.000-05:00

Schlitterbahn Vacation Village is awesome. They completed Phase 1 in 2009. Not sure when the entire area is to be complete. When it is, it will having shopping, dining, a riverwalk, the water park, and even "tree house" hotel rooms you can stay overnight in. But for now the waterpark was a lot of fun. The main lazy river actually has tidal waves coming every few seconds that send you around the whole river. That was a blast. There was about an hour wait to do the "roller coaster" slide but the other three were only about a 15 minute wait. Would like to go again during the middle of the week when it isn't so crowded. I think when it is all finished it is going to give Great Wolf Lodge (just across the freeway) a run for its money.

Sometimes You Win.....

2010-07-17T09:32:00.000-05:00

And sometimes you lose. Got the babysitter last night so we could enjoy another Royals Game. It was Buck Night which means that hot dogs, small drinks, peanuts, and twinkies are all just $1. It was also Fireworks Friday when they do an awesome fireworks show after the game. And it was 50/50 night. The KC Royals raise money for a particular charity and patrons can buy a raffle ticket for $1. They sell them up until the 5th inning. At the 8th inning they put the winning number up on the jumbo tron. The charity gets half the money collected and the winning individual gets the other half. They were raising money for the Kansa City School for the Deaf. Last night someone took home $4900. It is always fun to have a national team in our city even if we do lose the game.

The Joys of Being a Girl

2010-07-17T09:05:00.000-05:00

You know I have never agreed with moms piercing their babies ears. I think that is cruel and unusual punishment. Granted, they will never even remember the trauma they went through, but all they know is that someone is causing them severe pain and mom is allowing it to happen. I on the other hand had to wait until I was 12 to do it. We changed the rules a bit in our home. Figured if at 8 they were old enough to be baptized then they were old enough to make that decision to get pierced ears or not. Savannah was absolutely thrilled when she got it done. As you can see though, Haylie was a totally different story. Oh there were tears!! I don't think it helped that we had to wait behind 3 other women and there was only one employee in the store at the time AND only one piercing gun was working so it took twice as long. By the time it was her turn she was just a basket case. However, after the initial trauma was over she was all smiles and she came home with 38 pairs of earrings (and NOT clip ons).

Happy #11 Savannah!

2010-07-17T08:55:00.000-05:00

Savannah actually turned 11 in June but we were on a family trip to Mt Rushmore so her birthday party with friends was postponed until July. She invited several from school class and several from church. She originally wanted a "Twilight" theme to her party but I couldn't find anyone that had that kind of cake. So we just went with a girly pink.

We had moms drop the girls off at the De Soto Aquatic Center for a couple of hours of swim time, then it was back home for pizza, cake, ice cream, and presents. We all had a great time.

2010 Star Spangled Spectacular

2010-07-07T20:15:00.000-05:00

Went to our annual Star Spangled Spectacular at Corporate Woods. We always love this. We go about 5p and stay until the fireworks are through. This year the weather was great up to a point. It was cloudy, not humid, a bit breezy. Didn't think it would rain. The fireworks were supposed to start about 9:30p and no joke, a downpour started about 9:15 and wouldn't let up. Needless to say we left and they officially cancelled with a rain date the next night. Unfortunately we didn't go back even though Mike was off again that Monday. Guess we'll have to wait until next year.

Fun In Kansas City

2010-07-07T20:09:00.000-05:00

My mother and my sisters family came to visit for 5 days the end of June. Had a total blast. They flew in on my niece Jessica's 19th birthday so we celebrated with a bbq in our backyard. Monday they wanted to go around and see some church sites again. Went to the Liberty Jail Visitors Center and out to Richmond Mo where Oliver Cowdery is buried.

That night was our awesome Kansas City Royals. AND WE WON!

Tuesday was spent at Worlds of Fun. Got to love all the thrill rides!

Wednesday we spent at the Kansas City Zoo.

The weather was absolutely divine. Never above 88 and very low humidity compared to what we had had the previous week.

Brand Stinkin' New

2010-06-23T06:26:00.000-05:00

Last night was the long awaited Open House for Mission Trail Middle School. A lot of the rooms were open for parents and students to see and it was also an ice cream social. Savannah is SO excited. School starts in a mere 7 1/2 weeks on August 16. The big Commons Area is where they will set up lunch tables and the library is on the 2nd floor and overlooks it. Great place for boy watching. The cooking classroom was real nice and a whole bunch of KitchenAid mixers are ready to be pulled out of boxes. 6th Grade Pod was the largest out of the three grades and they had the main gymnasium and an "auxillary gym" whatever that is for. I never had that. Our little girl is turning into a young woman.

A Wicked Fathers Day

2010-06-20T16:10:00.000-05:00

Great Fathers Day weekend to St Louis. Mike was off on Friday so we left that morning. Lunch at Fuddruckers in Columbia, Mo. Mike did a temple session while the girls and I checked in at the Marriott and spent some time at the pool. The Dutchers from our ward were also in town so we had a nice chat while all the girls swam. Dinner of course had to be at Old Spaghetti Factory. On a whim we decided to go see Toy Story 3 at the theatre by OSF. I thought it was real cute. I did a temple session Sat morning and Matt and Bonnie were there also. Headed over to Union Station for lunch at Hard Rock Cafe and then bum around and feed the fish. Had to buy some fudge from The Fudgery and watch their show. There wasn't enough time to drive all the way back to the hotel, but not enough stuff that we hadn't done alread downtown so we just drove for a bit before dinner. Ate at OSF down in Lacelades Landing by the Arch then headed over to The Fabulous Fox Theatre for Wicked. Awesome as always. Headed home today and the girls slept 3 of the 4 hour drive. Gotta love it.

I Knew There Was a Reason We Lived Here

2010-06-14T17:39:00.001-05:00

Lenexa is named finalist for 2010 All-America City Award Lenexa has been named a finalist for the 2010 All-America City Award in recognition of its outstanding civic accomplishments and community involvement. Given annually by the National Civic League, the All-America City Award is the oldest and most prestigious civic recognition award in the country. Criteria for the award include innovation, inclusiveness, civic engagement, and cross sector collaboration to address pressing local challenges. Lenexa was one of 27 communities from across the country chosen as finalists. “We are honored to be included on such an impressive list of finalists for the 2010 All-America City Award,” said Mayor Mike Boehm. “Through our many festivals and community events Lenexa has maintained the atmosphere of a small town while having access to the amenities associated with being a suburban community in a major metropolitan area. We are very fortunate to have an engaged and supportive citizenry, an active business community, and strong civic and religious organizations all working together to address daily challenges without losing our focus on the future.” To become a finalist, each community completed an application describing three projects that address community challenges. Each of the finalists will send a delegation to the national conference in Kansas City in June to present their stories of positive community change to a jury of civic experts. From this group of finalists, 10 communities will be chosen as the winners of the 2010 All-America City Award, which will be announced on June 18. “These are some of the most innovative communities in the country,” notes National Civic League President Gloria Rubio-Cortes. “They give us hope and inspiration and teach us important lessons about leveraging the civic energy of ordinary people to address difficult challenges during some very tough economic times.” In addition to Lenexa, other finalists are as follows: Chandler, AZ; Bentonville, AR; Dublin, CA; Lynwood, CA; Rancho Cordova, CA; Vernon Central (neighborhood) CA; Miami Lakes, FL; North Miami. FL; Acworth, GA; Belleville, IL; Canton, IL; Noblesville, IN; Des Moines, IA; Scott County, KS; Bowling Green, KY; Salisbury, MD; Ferguson, MO; Riverside, MO; Lynbrook, NY; Gastonia, NC; West Chester, OH; Wyoming, OH; Mount Pleasant, SC; El Paso, TX; Abingdon, VA; Middleton, Wisconsin. The National Civic League is a 116-year-old nonpartisan nonprofit organization that strengthens democracy by increasing the capacity of the nation’s people to fully participate in and build healthy and prosperous communities across America.