To my old man...

I want to wish my hubby a very happy Birthday!!!

Sweet Moments like this...

My kids are driving me crazy. Maybe it's the heat, but I am just about to my wit's end with them lately. Anyways, this afternoon we went on a trip to the A.J. Library. (I LOVE that place!) We were all tired and hot driving home in scorching Arizona afternoon sun, and some of us, namely ME, weren't happy with others, namely the rest of the car's occupants, because of the rowdie and impolite behavior that was exhibited upon leaving the library. (Ok, more like a total meltdown from Ty, McKade running through the parking lot, and Dallin pushing his way through his siblings so he could "click-it" first.) Anyways, we were driving while listening to our Primary songs when the song "Families Can Be Together Forever" came on. My kids all started singing the song and a very sweet Spirit filled the car. All three of them knew both verses, and by the time the song ended, all frustration was gone. I love to hear my kids sing praises to their Heavenly Father! McKade doesn't ever sing on key, Tyli BELTS it out in her little toddler voice, and Dallin is still very shy about singing. This one hymn, however, was one of the most beautifully sung songs I have ever heard my kids sing, and I know it was sung for me at the moment I needed it the most!

It is so HOT here in Arizona...

The birds have to use potholders to pull worms out of the ground.
The potatoes cook underground, and all you have to do to have lunch is to pull one out and add butter, salt and pepper.
Farmers are feeding their chickens crushed ice to keep them from laying hard-boiled eggs.
The cows are giving evaporated milk.
The trees are whistling for the dogs.
You no longer associate bridges (or rivers) with water.
You can say 113 degrees without fainting.You eat hot chilies to cool your mouth off.
You can make instant sun tea.You learn that a seat belt makes a pretty good branding iron.
The temperature drops below 95, you feel a bit chilly.
You've experienced condensation on your behind from the hot water in the toilet bowl.
You would give anything to be able to splash cold water on your face.
The 4 seasons are: tolerable, hot, really hot, and ARE YOU KIDDING ME??!!
You discover that in July, it takes only 2 fingers to drive your car.
You discover that you can get a sunburn through your car window.
You notice the best parking place is determined by shade instead of distance.
Hot water now comes out of both taps.
It's noon in July, kids are on summer vacation, and not one person is out on the streets.
You actually burn your hand opening the car door.
You break a sweat the instant you step outside at 7:30 a.m. before work.
No one would dream of putting vinyl upholstery in a car or not having air conditioning.
Your biggest bicycle wreck fear is, "What if I get knocked out and end up lying on the pavement and cook to death?"
You realize that asphalt has a liquid state.
A sad Arizonan once prayed, "I wish it would rain - not so much for me, cuz I've seen it -- but for my 7-year-old."

*I stole this from my friend Anne's blog. (I couldn't resist!) Thanks Anne. It summes up our neighborhood quite nicely!

My Dancing Girl

Tyli loves to dance. No, she's not in any dance classes or anything, but all day long, if not asking for something to eat, she's asking me to turn on her dancing music so she can dance. Once I agree, she has to go find a dress or her "dancing outfit" (a leotard) to dance in. Most times she'll settle for a slip that is big enough to wear as an entire dress. Then she spins and twirls until she's so dizzy she can't stand up. Occasionally she's spontaneously put her hands on her hips and shake her booty. I love watching her dance- but only for a few minutes. Then it gets old. (What a boring mom I am!)

Taking a break because she's so dizzy! (in her leotard)

Dallin is 6?

I can't believe my Dallin is 6 already!

Here is Dallin and one of his best friends Cooper. They have been good friends since they were 6 months old! (6 months to 6 years- that sounds like a long time, but it has gone by FAST!)

Here are the cousins, Aunts, and Grandma who were at the party. I'm guessing Grandpa is on the other side taking pictures?

Some of the friends who came. I messed up and didn't get a picture of everyone before people left. Dallin had such a fun birthday and loved every minute of it!

My big boy will be in first grade this year. He has already lost 7 teeth and his height is finally averaging out. (He's still taller than most, but according to the growth chart, he's almost average now.) He loves to play on the computer, play Wii, ride his bike, swim, and play with his friends. His favorite sports are soccer, football, and baseball. He is so mellow it makes me laugh. (TOTAL opposite from his baby years!) Dallin can read, but doesn't like to do any schoolwork outside of school except for what is assigned. He is so excited for the school year to begin. He is a very good example for his brother and sister. I love you, Dallin. Thanks for being such a good boy and adding so much joy and happiness in our home!

A Few more pictures from our Idaho trip

Outside the Mt. Timpanogus Temple after the wedding waiting for the bride and groom. (This first one is one of my favorites!)

Uncle Grant checking McKade's arm after he fell off the bunk bed. I really like these pictures too. Thanks, Steph!

Now taking students...

It's that time of year again...Preschool sign-up time. I know most people have to sign their kids up in March for preschool, but I'm not that type. My sign-ups start as of now, but I only have 3 more spaces left, so hurry and either call or email me. Thanks!