Michael and Tammi Family Blog

A Good Family Memory Christmas 2011

2011-12-13T10:22:00.003-07:00

We had a great time past weekend one that we will all remember for a long time to come. Dinner over looking the Temple and then walking around with freezing tempertures to see the lights and then some wonderful hot chocolate up at Ralph and Teresa Christensens home. We had treats to munch on and played the most amazing game of Cops and Mafia. I learned that Jayme can hold her own in any game and Jason is still a very fine citizen after 4 games. Emily who would of thought you could belong to the Mafia. Nanna, we know its hard to kill you ! Colton doesn't make a good cop and Bryan is still yet a mystery. Bump pa is still trying to figure out the game and Jessica, Jenna, and Jordan are so darn cute you never know what to think when they tell you something. I think they can talk their way out of anything (I believe anything they tell me) We had lots of fun. It was a great time. I hated to say goodbye so fast. Thanks for all your efforts to be there. And a huge thanks to Ralph and Teresa for everything.

Jenna Getting Married

2011-10-17T13:31:00.005-07:00

Just a few of the many pictures that were taken of Jenna and Colton. The wedding was very nice at the Logan Utah Temple and then up here for a reception the next day. I thought it all was very nice. We just returned yesterday from St. George where another open House was given in their honor down there where Colton is from. We got to meet many wonderful people, both friends and family of the Cox family. Jenna looked absolutely beautiful and her sisters made sure that everything was perfect. Tammi did a wonderful job putting the final touches on the reception up here. She had a great friend do the recpetion up here, which took a lot of stress off of her. Jessica, of course did the hair ( who else would Jenna have trusted?)

Over 1500 miles were logged in driving to everywhere we've been and I think we've all hung in there quite well. There is no doubt that the Lord has provided yet one more miracle for me to be here for this wedding.

I'm so proud of you Jenna. WE love you and excited to have Colton as part of the family.

On my drive home yesterday as the girls were watching movie in the back I couldn't help be grateful for this marvelous blessing. WE are now down to two girls left at home and by Spring Jordan will be graduating and moving to Logan ----we're not looking forward to that.

Some Recent Photos

2011-07-19T12:20:00.003-07:00

I thought this picture was a good one of all the kids so I thought I would put it on. Tammi's dad is centered he's 92 and doing well. Kayson with his tie is very cute. Everyone is home which is something we all enjoy. In the picture right below is me and the girls with our fireworks shirts on. Notice their smiles ...you guessed it we were just starting out, trust me after 10 days smiles were replaced with red eyes and lost smiles. I love my girls hugging on me.

Now that the fireworks are over maybe I can get a few blogs posted so keep watching.

Happy Birthday Jayme & Jordan

2011-01-05T13:12:00.004-07:00

Jayme turned 12 in December and now goes to Young women's with her big sister and her mother as well. WOW she is really growing up fast. Jr. High next year. No more primary kids in the Pollard family. That doesn't seem possible.

Jordan is now a whooping 17...... talk about growing up, we figured it out the other day that at this time next year she will be 4 months away from graduating from High School. Oh my gosh what are we going to do with out Jordan at home. Its almost too painful to think about!

Happy birthday to both of you. We are so proud of you and excited for you. It seems like yesterday that you were sitting in my lap reading books together. I have to say they are beautiful young women. Mom and I are so happy we still have you both home with us. We love you and I know your brother and sisters do too.

Happy Birthday girls!!!

2011 is here, now what?

2011-01-03T18:03:00.001-07:00

I thought Christmas with all of our children home was great. We love having them here and spending time with them. To kind of recap what Kayson said as we were sitting around the table one night having dinner; calling each one of us by name, and then in the most serious voice a little 2 year old can have he said; "here we are, all together". You can tell it was important enough for him to take notice...and it truly was an important observation...we were together!

We have all been very blessed to share time with each other at such a special time of the year. With out a doubt it is truly a tender mercy from the Lord. Any such moments we can share with each other should and ought to be thought of as a blessing. I really don't have much to say in this post other than one thing; I'm very proud of each one of you. You all are doing so well with each segment of your lives. Jessica and Bryan, you have such a wonderful young boy to be so proud of and that the Lord has entrusted you to watch over and teach him and you are doing that really well. Jason and Emily; we are so proud of you Emily for graduating and Jason for being the Elders Quorum President. You guys are doing great! Jenna; We're proud of how well you have managed on your own. peanut butter and jelly and all. Jordan and Jayme; You are growing up too fast ...please slow down so mom and I can catch up. We love you all so much. Lets make this year one of our best ever.

Love you all

Dad

Happy Birthday to Jenna - 21 Years old

2010-10-17T12:32:00.002-07:00

Jenna turned 21 on Saturday. She just recently purchased her own car and is doing super in school. She is so fun to have around because she makes us all laugh. She is always smiling about something. Our third child (also known as the Middle Child) sometimes regarded as lost in the mix of five kids. She always bounced around laughing and smiling and saying some of the craziest things. She loves old movies and can tell you about any Doris Day movie.

She has evolved into a beautiful young lady. Her spirit is special and being with her only makes you love having her around. Sensitive and caring she is always very nurturing to her younger sisters. We want you to know how much we love and appreciate all that you do Jenna. You are so sweet and we miss not having you around more often. I'm so proud of you for how you have managed to live on your own and go to school. You have worked hard and I know it hasn't been easy but your doing wonderful. We love you. Happy Birthday Sweetie!!!!

Home Coming Weekend

2010-10-17T12:05:00.002-07:00

This being home coming weekend I thought I should post a few pictures of Jordan. I think this is her first really big Dance date and she went with Korb Carpenter (I think that's his name) Very good kid! They had plans to attend a soccer game and then to lunch at the Mall.

Jessica came home to do hair for her and some other family things we had planned. Thanks to Jessica our girls have had it easy when it comes to

having their own personal Hair Dresser.

Jordan in her dress and up do. Her date doesn't look to bad either. Except I did notice the arm around the her.....not sure I'm ready for this to happen. It was all I could do to say hey not so close their buddy....but I managed to not say a word. Jordan looks great and thanks to all of her sisters and mom for helping her get ready!

A week with Kayson and projects to boot!

2010-10-10T15:47:00.004-07:00

After 4 years of having no shelves in my den Tammi had the wonderful foresight to use these old shelves that were in her fathers garage and with my little knowledge of woodworking managed to put on a new front fascia and crown molding on the top. Tammi and I sprayed painted them with my cup sprayer and compressor. They were painted the same color as the walls in the den. I think they came out much better than I had thought they would and I'm so glad Tammi pushed to use them. Finally, our den is looking like a den and we can now get to our books. I know they are not perfect but hey it works well. We almost need another section of shelves for even more stuff. I think this is the first time all of my personal journals have ever been in one place at the same time, all 14 volumes since Aug 4, 1978. It is also home to the last 20 years of daily planner storage binders. Even Jessica was impressed that I had 20 years worth of daily history.

Now for the real important stuff:

I caught this moment with Nanna and Kayson having a minute with the cat and thought it was cute. Kayson really took to Nanna on this trip and they cuddled quite often. Kayson and Jessica came home for hair cutting and for Kayson to play with Me Me. and Goose. We had a great time with them both and always hate to see them go.

Kayson had this cowboy hat on and loved it. He wore this hat for several days. I think he was a lion and cowboy at the same time. Very funny as it kept falling down into his eyes.

Jessica and Kayson having mommy time. She is so good with him and even though my picture isn't very good for some reason I thought this one of them was endearing.

We had several projects to work on one of them was the pumpkins made out of logs. Why I'm not sure but Kayson really got into it and enjoyed painting them so much that he had his shirt covered with paint. Right after they took his clothes off I got this picture of him painting away in his underwear.

He and the girls had fun doing this and the pumpkins actually came out looking pretty cool. I'll try to get a post of the pumpkins out on the front steps.

2010-09-25T12:19:00.002-07:00

Its been a while since I last posted anything but when I uploaded these pics I decided to use them in a blog. I couldn't ask for a cuter picture of our daughters. They always seem to have fun with each other I think this is a picture from the girls trip. The one with Jason however, is his sisters way of making him feel extra special because he wasn't allowed to go on the girls trip with his cute wife. Trust me, Jason was loving the attention and I have to admit he is pretty strong. He's built like a tank and yet his sisters think of him as a big teddy bear. Jaymes expression says it all doesn't it? He loves it. They sure do have fun together.

JASON jaSON JAson

2010-07-09T11:25:00.003-07:00

I found this mug shot at the local post office -- you know where they keep the WANTED Posters

This was a good shot of Jason just before Fireworks started up after being up all night setting up his booth. I'm not sure what that hairy thing under his chin is but he tells me he likes it. I guess it could keep that part of his face warm in the winter. Jason was a huge help this year in fireworks. He not only is the muscle of the family but he is also known around here as Mr. Pyro. Anything about fireworks you want to know ask Jason, he is the expert hands down! Not only does he know fireworks but he is by far the families best seller...although his little sister Jordan, kind of got the hang of it this year and really gave him a run for his money. If he's not careful she might just out sell him next year! For now, he is blazing hot when it comes to fireworks. he knows his stuff and when it comes to shooting them off well -------get out of the way because your in for a show.

This is Jason the day fireworks season ended. PAyDaY! We couldn't do all that we do without Jason and his strength and of course for me being the only boy in the family --gives me someone to hang with when I need a break from all the estrogen found in this house. We really do need to Thank Jason on so many fronts this year. We love having you home son. And we love having your cute wife come with you. A few weeks ago Jason and Emily came up and worked all day here to help us with everything from garage cleaning to weeds and lawn care. thank you both so much for all the help. What you do in a day takes me more than a week. We love ya and can't wait to see you again.

Fireworks, Girls and Kayson --Life Can't get any Better!

2010-07-08T09:48:00.003-07:00

This week has been a hard week of selling fireworks. Everyone is tired and of course there is time to play just a little. Kayson in the jump toy was fun. His mom actually got in with him but we didn't get pictures of that.

Anytime you get Jenna neara camera your bound to have some pictures of all the girls having fun together. Fireworks was a great time for the girls to be with each other. As always they laugh about something(ususally its about some silly thing their mom or dad has done) They do like taking pictures of each other though.

All in the car and ready to go....if you look close you can see Kayson in the way back. He is in heaven with mom and all her sisters there to help out. As Jenna would say "us girls and Monkey" are having fun ............going on a road trip to who knows where? They are all smiles, you can't help but just smile looking at them.

Nanna with her girls, Jessica is taking the picture so she wasn't able to be in the pic. Again they are all smiles. they really do have fun together.

Could I ask for cuter daughters than this?

I love having them all come home at the same time. They have so much fun and to hear them laugh and giggle is priceless.

Its hard to believe how fast they have all grown up. Jayme and Jordan really enjoy having their brother and emily and jess and Jen home. Its not so boring when they are around. I guess that means Tammi and I are boring.

Monkey See Monkey Do!

2010-06-04T15:30:00.002-07:00

We had Jessica and Kayson come home this week so that Jess could cut hair and spend a few days with us. I love it when our girls get together and have fun with each other. It really is fun to have them home.

Jordan & Jayme love having all of their siblings home. Jenna came last night and Jason comes this evening.

I had to laugh when I saw these pictures because Kayson and his aunts are always trying to get him to do things like make funny faces and do funny things.

He makes us all laugh so much. He and Jordan are fooling around and making faces while Jordan takes his picture

I think they could do without the tongue though. He is getting to look like a big boy.

We had a cook out the other night and Jessica and Kayson were going down on this piece of corn. Kayson loved it and everyone thought it was funny to watch them both working on the same piece of corn on the cob. Kayson was taking big bites and at one point bit Jessica finger trying to get at his corn.

Monkey see, monkey do is what these pictures are all about. Oh how we miss them when they go back home.

Prom Weekend & Snow shoeing in the Family Room

2010-04-17T17:55:00.002-07:00

Well this was PROM Weekend and Jordan was
asked by a nice senior. She looks great I thought.

They are just getting ready to leave the house. Our house has been about hair all day. Thanks to Jessica and her amazing ability to do hair, all the girls are getting cuts and color. Jenna was here as well and I think she was doing nails and hair too. someday Jessica and Jenna should open a salon together.

Jayme tended to Kayson most of the day as he is always her little shadow. Jason and Emily were here as well.

Jordan couldn't look prettier. She is so cute. I think all of my girls look cute, and yes I am just a little biased. I also am a very proud dad to have such beautiful girls that are not just pretty but very sweet spirits as well.

We have enjoyed having all the kids come home together. Below is another picture of her beautiful dress that we borrowed for the prom.

Now as for the other picture of Kayson, this is what you call snow shoeing in the family room. With Nanna's slippers on Kayson is off on an adventure snow shoeing. The interesting thing in this picture is that there was no one else around to see him do it. (because of the hair do's) But I thought it too cute to pass up.

APRIL IS DONANTE LIFE MONTH

2010-04-15T11:31:00.002-07:00

Seeing that this month is donate life month, may I remind everyone to remember those waiting for transplants in your prayers and bless those families that provide the gift of life for others. If your not a donor please consider being one and register today at:

Yesidaho.org

Have a great Month, Its great to be a live isn't it?

Climbing on a Combine

2010-03-23T14:22:00.003-07:00

I had to post this picture because its not everyday you see five women and little guy standing on a huge agricultural combine posing for a picture. The things people will do ....for Kayson. This little guy has his aunts and Nanna rapped around his little fingers so tight. Watching them climb up on that thing was kind of funny. Once they got up there, they all looked pretty darn good. I do have the cutest girls I think.

Jayme is sure growing up too. She is almost as tall as her mother. Way to go girls, another photo captured moment.

The Lone Ranger with out his mask!

2010-03-22T16:28:00.002-07:00

The Lone Ranger....without his mask of course and in his PJ's no less. Mr. Kayson doing what Kayson does best ...entertain his Nanna and Bumpa. I have to say I really felt a void this past weekend as the girls all loaded up and headed to Boise to watch Jordan at the state Cheer competition. Where they took 2nd. place....good job jordan!

We had a great time with Jessica, Kayson and Jenna earlier in the week when they arrived here to spend a few days before heading up to Boise.Once they all left and the house was quiet, I could feel the void with Kayson being gone. He is such a fun little guy to have around and when he is making everyone laugh, its just that much more fun to have him here. He certainly knows how to say MOM and DAD. Ask him about the Dog story and he'll keep you going for 30 -40 minutes on one story. We love it and just hate it when he has to go home. Thanks Bry for letting them come home as often as they do.

It was good to see Jenna. Her smile is always one thing that can brighten your day. She is growing up too fast I think...still think of her as our little girl. Jordan and Jayme love having thier sisters around and when you get them all together they laugh and have a good time --sometimes they cry a little. With a house full of girls what can I say!

Jordan and Jayme went down to spend a few days with Jessica (thanks for having them by the way) Tammi and I were left home alone.....that was real fun. Tammi watched her favorite shows in the family room and I caught a few ball games in the other room. WE're going to have to lose the tv's I think.

Until next time. High OOOOOO Silver. Rides again!

Nanna and Bumpa are good for something?

2010-03-03T11:37:00.002-07:00

Jessica and Kayson were here for a few days this past week doing hair again. I had to laugh at this picture because Kayson seems to have found the best seat in the house, bumpa's chair. How content can a little guy be as long as he has is binki and his Heavy Equipment dvd that he loves to watch. He looks rather comfortable in bumpa's chair. Nanna and bumpa are so much fun. We sure did wear him down or could it be the other way around? Cuddle time is too precious to be sleeping it away.

Visiting Nanna's and Bump Pa's for a few Days

2010-02-15T13:00:00.003-07:00

Jessica and Kayson came up to celebrate Bump pa's 50th birthday and surprised us all by getting here a day early...which I have to say was a very nice surprise and we very much appreciated her coming up early.

As always, Kayson didn't lack any attention and had us all laughing most of the time he was here. We loved having them. Kayson actually got to stay with us a few extra days while Jessica returned home to get some things done without Kayson around. Jordan and Jayme were kept plenty busy playing with monkey. He loves to have them play and throw him in the air.

After an exhausting afternoon of hard playing, of course in this family there has to be time for a movie and Kayson finds the right spot to watch "Lady and the Tramp" Jordans loves the snuggle and I think everyone tries to get these precious moments with the little guy because he doesn't always give them. You have to take them when you can, no matter where or when, even on the floor like this. I should point out the blanket. He loves this blanket for some reason.

Kayson and his mom decide to make some cookies while Jessica is home. He loves cookies and really gets into it.

Covered in flour Jess and Kayson pose for a few photos.

Jessica loves being a mom and enjoys making cookies with Kayson. They have fun together. Frankly speaking, not just because she is my daughter but I have to say she takes after her own mother at being such a great mom.

Kayson knows how to throw dough.

Cookies are finished except for the eating by bedtime these will be gone no doubt.

Meal time was just exciting for all of us watching all the facial expressions Kayson can come with. He is beginning to feed him self very well and hates to get dirty fingers just like his mother did at the same age. He likes to be cleaned up as soon as possible and we love watching him say prayers for meal time. You know your grand son is being trained right when they pray this early.

Unfortunately there is also a time to say goodbye and in this picture saying goodbye to Nanna was hard to do. He loves coming to Nannas house and playing with all the toys and two of his aunts that almost cry seeing him go.

Going home just wasn't the thing he wanted to do here. He was having way to much fun and will miss us all I'm sure but not near as much as we will miss him. Tammi took the girls and Kayson and met up with his mom and Dad in snowville.

We can't wait for him to come again

See Ya Monkey!

Kayson, Kayson, Kayson Sharing the Love

2010-01-12T17:23:00.006-07:00

One of the things Kayson does when he is here is follows his aunt Meme everywhere. Here he is just wanting to be close to her. You have to love how sweet this picture is.
Jordan getting the same kind of cuddle.

Its so fun to see Kayson with his Aunts. They love him so much and when He leaves everyone feels an empty space for his tenderness. He can make you laugh so hard and then you get a quiet minute like this and you just have to sit back and enjoy it because you know the older they get the less it happens.

Jessica was here doing hair again this last week and Kayson did so good getting his hair cut. He actually had more hair cut off his own head than nanna did on her hair cut. Wow he's sure growing up.

Jessica is such a great Mom and does so well with him.

She works hard keeping her boys looking good. Thanks for all the hair cuts Jess we sure love you!

Spirit, the movie was on and very intense.....nothing better than a movie with mom snuggled up on the couch together. He was actually holding his mom's hand the whole time, which I thought was very cute. Aunts are one thing but his mom is number 1. Make no mistake about it!

Kayson is relaxing in his favorite lay-z-boy chair watching his favorite movie of the week Spirit(for the 4th time)! Maggie seems to have warmed up to him rather well finding her place at the bottom of his feet. She is beginning to get a little protective as she won't let anyone move kayson once she is settled. I think he kind of likes her a bit.

Happy Birthday to Jordan and Jayme

2009-12-24T12:35:00.006-07:00

We had a great time celebrating the birhtdays for Jordan and Jayme. Jordan turned sweet 16 and I must say we have been waiting very impatiently for Jordan to be able to drive at night. In Idaho you have to be 16 to drive without an adult at night time. So now she can drive to her games, mutual and the store. Dating is another big thing she gets to begin doing...however, I think I'll be tough on that one. Pictured here are a bunch of her wonderful friends, thank you for coming and helping us surprise her.

Jayme turned 11 and I can't believe it. One more year and she goes to Young Womens. It just doesn't seem possible. She is all grown up already. She got to have lunch at Shon Hing one her favorite places to go with her big sister Jessica and her mom (dad was home not feeling well or I would have been there too) Monday night while we were in Twin we took all of them to AppleBee's for dinner. I think they had a good time. We went over for last minute Christmas shopping. Kayson was a great sport and had us all laughing. (As always)

Its hard to believe that our girls are growing up so fast. Before you know it they'll all be gone and Tammi and I will be left to sit in our chairs and wonder where they all went.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY GIRLS!!!!!!!!!

Thanksgiving Aftermath

2009-12-05T10:47:00.004-07:00

This was really the only good picture taken of thanksgiving because everyone was so busy visiting and eating we forgot to get more pictures.

We had a great time with children all here and even though we had to wait until Saturday before we could celebrate it was worth the wait.

I think everyone had a good dinner thanks to Tammi. She did a wonderful job cooking everything and thanks to those who brought either rolls or pies to top it all off. Our family eats so fast that we're all done in what seems like 10 minutes....but you can see there is one person in the picture that's still eating actually....yep Grandpa Morley! He knows how to really enjoy his meal by taking his time and enjoying each bite. The rest of us could take a lesson in that.

This is a special time of the year. A time to really count our blessings and realize just how much we have been blessed. To see our children with smiles on their faces is icing on the cake for me. You couldn't ask for a better looking family. Even though we are missing a few in the picture trust me they are there some where having a good time. Its hard to believe that Christmas is almost here and soon a New Year will begin. WOW !

A WEEKEND OF FUN!!

2009-11-15T17:27:00.004-07:00

Its always a blast to have the kids come home. They usually blast in and blast out, but this trip Kayson and Bump pa got a chance to kick back and do some reading together. It was a joy to have him here and to just take our time and read and spend time together playing cars and trucks on the floor.

The girls made a quick trip to Twin so Kayson and Bump pa had a few hours to play. Jordan helped play until she needed to get ready for a game she was cheering at. Everyone went to MeMe's basketball game in the early morning and then Jordan's game later on in the day, to watch her cheer.

You just have to love this picture of Kayson in the tub. Every minute awake is play time of sorts. I'm not sure you got this picture but I thought it captured his smile and happy look quite well. He had us laughing so much and has the greatest expressions.

Jessica is really a great mom. I'm sure Bryan is a terrific dad and frankly I think they are doing a super good job as parents. Jessica is such a great mother and to watch them play together is so special to watch. I knew she would be a great mother. It doesn't surprise me at all.

Kayson loves to ride his bouncy horse while he is here and really gets it going. He isn't afraid of anything except maybe aunt bugs (jenna) as she hides waiting to chase him into the arms of his mom. He loves it because he always comes back for more of it. Outlaw is printed on his shirt and well lets just say ....he's all boy!

He's only been gone for a few hours but we already miss him....it gets too quiet around here without him.

Can't wait for Thanksgiving

I must say Jenna is getting prettier all the time. She is a great aunt and we enjoyed having her home. Maybe next time, when you take dads car, you can return it with the radio turned down before you get out! My sound system does work rather well......you have given "blown the cob webs out of it" new meaning!

Love you guys

Hurry home

Guess What Kayson is doing?

2009-10-31T10:39:00.004-07:00

Three things came to my mind as I saw this picture. First I knew what Kayson was doing right away just like all of you think you know what he's doing.......multi-tasking! Most of you think he's just picking up rocks well that's one of three things he's doing.

Kayson is so talented that he can moon the Paparzzi, pick up rocks and practice his three point stance as a defensive linebacker (for when he goes to BYU of course) all at once. Its a long road to haul (no pun intended) but as you can see he is definitely in training. You just have to laugh at anything this little guy does because he is so darn cute all the time.

I'm amazed at how well Jessica understands what he is saying. she knows immediately what he is trying to say ...........heaven help us when he finally can real off words ...he's going to be one of those kids that have a million questions to ask bump pa every 2 seconds. Oh can hardly wait just like the rest of you.

I love the shirt sticking out don't you?

Kayson I can't wait to see you again ........jess you can come home too if you want!

Two Peas in a Pod!

2009-10-20T10:02:00.002-07:00

After having watched Jayme and Kayson
for most of the weekend, I just had to
post a picture of the two of them. From the moment Kayson arrives here, he is on the lookout for his Aunt Meme. They are the best of pals. Kayson loves Meme so much that he followers her everywhere she goes and will have his eye on her every minute. Jayme never gets tired of him and plays all day long with him. This picture is of Kayson riding his bouncy horse at Nanna's and with Aunt Meme right along side of him to make sure he doesn't go flyng off of it because he really gets going.

I also had to get a picture of those big brown eyes and cute cheeks. He is growing up so fast and when he's not here we miss him. We already can't wait for him to return. We laugh all the time when he's here.

As of yesterday there are 9 weeks left before Christmas. I can't believe its coming so fast. With the last of the Autumn leaves falling it won't belong now before we are plowing snow. We have certainly been blessed this year.

Autumn is Here!!

2009-10-17T14:34:00.003-07:00

One of my favorite things to look forward to in the fall of each year is Conference weekend. There is something about hearing our prophet speak and listening to the many general authorities bare witness of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. It sets the tone going into the holidays and is in my opinion, a great way to begin the harvest season.

Kayson seen here wearing his white shirt and tie is a gentle reminder to me that you can never start too early in teaching the importance of following the Prophet's example. It just wouldn't be the same with a blue shirt or yellow shirt. Thank heavens his mother understands that!

Another one of my favorite things about fall is the color of trees. I recently had a friend of mine send me several pictures of the Autumn color from back home. I couldn't help but share a few of them because they are just great pictures.

This picture is so typical this time of year all
through New England and unless you are there capturing it at just the right time, you could miss some of the best color found anywhere in the states.

Can you just imagine yourself driving through this and taking it all in. WOW!

With White birch trees already losing their leaves and color behind them I thought this made for a nice picture as well.

Our family is busy as ever and with the Holidays just around the corner which means things will get even more hectic ...you just have to take a minute to really appreciate it.

I miss the maple trees!

Jason and Emily's Wedding Day

2009-09-14T14:22:00.002-07:00

This family can never be to serious! By the looks on their faces they all are having fun on what is suppose to be a serious day.

Emily has wasted no time by fitting right in with our girls. They love her just like she was a sister all along. And I'm sorry to say they have already taught her a bad habit of messing up a good picture...even Jason is getting into it with them. Do I need to remind anyone that these doors are Temple doors they are standing in....I guess I haven't taught them well enough yet!

What can I say about these girls that I haven't already said? You have to love their smiles and that they sure love one another. I look at this and still think of them as my little girls but they really aren't little any more. Beautiful young women.

Jason and Emily as they are coming out of the temple. We love you Emily! They were all smiles and very cute together. Emily's dress was beautiful and Jason looked grown up and very handsome. Thank you Jason for shaving that thing off your chin. You look much better I think.

Kayson at Nanna Pollards

2009-08-26T14:40:00.002-07:00

We enjoyed having Kayson and Jessica come up for a few days and Kayson was sure fun to have around. He loves his aunt MeMe and follows her everywhere. We went on several 4 wheeler rides this time because we couldn't get him off the darn thing. He loves to be going every second he's awake.

Jessica was here somewhere. We enjoy her too but Kayson steals the show hands down.

Our summer is quickly coming to a end as the kids have started back to school and are already busy with friends and activities that are planned.

All the girls are off again this weekend to attend a shower for Emily in SLC. I guess I'll stay home and watch the grass grow. Its hard to believe that Jason will be getting married here in just a few weeks. He is more than ready to get all the picture taking and planning done and over with. We are so excited to be having a new daughter come into our family. She has been so enjoyable to get to know. She is fun and kind and very soft spoken. Tammi says they are good for each other I would have to agree. They certainly look happy together. We wish them all the best.

Jordan is busy with cheer again this year and is working as well for Dr. Wells who was the doctor that Jenna worked for while she was in her last year of high school. Now Jordan will have this job for the next three years while she is going through school. Jayme is in the 5th grade and loves her new teacher. She is doing really well with her piano and will start dance next week. I love to hear Jayme play church songs and she really does a great job. Tammi is busy as ever. I thought once the Burley parade was over she would slow down but not her ...she now has an open house to get ready for in our yard on the 12th of Sept. Then maybe ...just maybe she can slow down a little.

You just have to love these pics of Kayson don't you ? He's such a cute little guy ...Yes Bump pa loves him quite a bit.

Big Family News......A WEDDING THIS FALL!!!

2009-07-21T10:37:00.002-07:00

It might not be the best picture taken but it does make you smile when you see it. Jason and Emily are engaged to be married the date isn't set yet but sometime in Sept. As you can tell they have alot of fun together and the best part is that we love Emily to death and all of the sisters have given Jason their thumbs up approval. She is a sweet heart and full of fun. She can hold her own with Jason and I must say I think they are very cute together.

We have already met her parents and had a great visit with them. Jason proposed after the fireworks season was over. They have been busy making plans and getting things ready for a weeding in less than 8 weeks now. I believe it will be in the Logan Temple.

We love you Emily. Can't wait for the big day to happen.

Tammi says wow our family is getting smaller yet at the same time getting bigger. Tammi and Emily were up till 3:00am the other night talking so poor Emily is already losing sleep!

Jason has been busy getting all of his things moved to Logan. He will be moving into the apartment they will have after they get married at the end of this month. WEL-COME to the family Emily!

A Precious Gift -- The Gift of Life

2009-07-21T10:14:00.005-07:00

This past week our family had the opportunity to meet our Donor family. It was a wonderful experience for all of us and one that will remain close to our hearts for a very long time. Their names are Sandy and Jerry Clutter from the Pittsburgh area. They have a wonderful family and we also got to meet a daughter that came with them, her name is Shannon and her her little boy named Hunter. We had a fun time with them. We missed not getting to meet another daughter that was home expecting a new baby any time now. Her name is Hope.

We exchanged gifts and learned more about my donor ..Jerryd. He was a remarkable young man and you can feel the love his family had for him. Enclosed are a few of the pictures taken while there at Intermountain Donor Services.

I think most of us would agree that it was a very nice meeting and we all came away feeling gratitude in our hearts for such a precious gift. It comes at the 81/2 mark of the Transplant and KSL will be doing a special piece about it July 23rd. So for those that would like to see it go to KSL.com and you should be able to bring it up either that day or the next day. It was suppose to air on the 23rd probably in the evening so it may not be available until the 24th on the computer.

This first meeting marks the beginning of a very good relationship we now have with a very special family. We hope and pray that our meeting will add additional comfort for Sandy and Jerry and their family. What a great thing it was to meet them.

A FEW GOOD MOWER'S

2009-05-28T15:00:00.005-07:00

The other day Jordan and Jayme helped me with the lawn mowing which I very much appreciated. Jayme is just starting to learn how to do it and does a great job at it. As a matter of fact Jordan was the one teaching Jayme how to do it. I'm happy to say she is a good little mower.....thanks meme!

And thank you Jordan for teaching her!

Jenna came home and she even tried to mow the lawn but of course got side tracked with IPod stuff, text messaging, or just soaking up the sun rays.

Kayson (aka..Little Grass Hopper) was hard at work, mowing the lawn and making sure it was just perfect. Level 5 cutting and not to fast. As you can see he is making sure he doesn't hit the fence with the edge of the mower housing, just like a professional would do .....(notice jenna) needless to say she enjoyed the ride while Little Grass Hopper was hard at work! I really don't know any 10 month olds that know how to run a mower ....he was born to run a tractor !

I think its safe to say that he has everything in control (including his mother) Aunt Bugz was just along for the ride...soaking up the sun and taking up space on the seat.

Kayson, Bump pa says; " thank you very much for your help "Grass Hopper" " The lawn looks great. See you next week when we have to do it all over again!

A busy Weekend !

2009-05-04T15:20:00.002-07:00

It's been a very busy weekend at our house with everyone coming home to celebrate Grandpa Morley's 91 st birthday. Happy Birthday Grandpa.

Tammi enjoyed doing the grand mother things like feeding the baby and changing clothes and just giving Jessica a huge help and relief. I think Tammi misses not being closer to do that more often.

Jayme is a big help as well. Kayson loves all of his aunts and they almost fight over him as to who gets him next we are going to have to pull a number for the waiting line!

Bump pa even got into the act of grand baby attention. It was so cold but the lawn needed to be mowed so I had to get my ski coat on and gloves with ski pants just to stay warm. Jessica got Kayson all bundled up and we went lawn mowing together can't wait til Kayson is old enough to mow it for me.

To give you an idea of how cold it was here only 5 days earlier we had snow.

the next picture was taken 5 days earlier when we had our April snow storm

It's a crazy Spring that's for sure. You never know from one day to the next what to expect for weather and if you don't like it now as they say in Idaho wait 5 minutes and it will be different.

I just know its too cold for me to be mowing yet but if the lawn gets to long then I have to bale it.

EASTER WEEKEND--- FAMILY TIME!

2009-04-13T10:51:00.011-07:00

Easter Weekend and of course we needed a family picture before everyone left. I think our entry way is becoming the family picture taking spot. We'll try to mix it up next time.

We had a wonderful time and enjoyed everyone coming home.

We got to meet for the first time Jason's friend Emily and I must say she is quite cute and very friendly. We enjoyed having her here with us. She jumpred right in to playing games and really wasn't shy at all. She was alot of fun. Perhaps we'll see her again soon....maybe next time it won't be so crazy around here. Emily, we loved having you and your welcome any time.
Kayson was just chillin, waiting for dinner to start and someone got this cute picture of him in his new easter tie. Wow has he grown up in a hurry.

We always love having Kayson here. He was alot of fun this weekend. We really enjoyed having Bryan and Jess come home too.

Kayson and Jayme have a special bond between them. We all don't know how she does it but Kayson Loves having Jayme to play with. She is always so gental with him and he just adores her. You want to know where kayson is,... its usually with Jayme somewhere playing quietly or reading a book or dancing. I'm amazed at how well she does with him.

There is one thing for certain when our girls get together, there is always fun and laughter. This was a pretty good example of some of that fun. When Kayson has a poopie diaper drawing straws to see who is going to change him has become quite a game around here. You can tell who won and who came in second and who drew the shortest straw. For some reason Jessica really enjoys this game!

Another thing that happens on a regular visit is, make overs. You can't live with a house full of girls and not know what a make over is. This is a classic case of waxing gone bad. I know what you were thinking.....you thought it was a demonstration to see who had the longest eye lashes right? Well not exactly.....this was a case of waxing gone bad and its paralizing effects it was taken 24 hours after the actual waxing ( now you see why Jason, Kayson Bryan and I stay clear of make overs) They have permanent effects that cause the brain to swell.

There is no doubt about it, sisters just love each other!

I think they miss each other don't you ?

Yooooo, whats happening? Nanna decided to take me for a walk around the circle. Of course I had to have my hat on because it was a little chilly and the sun was out so I needed my shades. We had a lot of fun on this walk. I can't wait for summer to get here. Life doesn't get much better than this does it?

I have to admit I do have the prettiest girls in the whole wide world. You can tell that they love to have their picture taken.

They keep getting cuter all the time. They must get their good looks from their mother.

When it came time to say goodbye some cried and some well lets just say some were mildly happy to say the least. We know Jason loves his little sisters so much that he gets emotional when its time to go. Jordan on the other hand ....well lets not go there !

You can tell from the excitment what Goose thinks.

Sunday Afternoon Walk with Two Lovely Ladies

2009-04-09T10:12:00.002-07:00

We didn't go far but it was sure a nice walk. After conference was over the girls and I decided to go for a walk while mom was catching up on some much needed rest. It's hard to believe how fast these two have grown up. As you can see there is a special love between them. With Jenna gone off to school, Jordan and Jayme find themselves becoming closer. I couldn't help but take the last picture with them walking ahead of me. I enjoyed seeing them so tenderly walking arm and arm laughing and giggling about some funny thing that one of them said to the other. They are fun to be with. They miss their big brother and other two sisters. Life can't get much better than this. This is what I consider a tender moment that makes everything worth while!

APRIL IS DONATE LIFE AWARENESS MONTH

2009-04-04T12:34:00.002-07:00

April has been designated to be the month for national donate life awareness month. Just think in the time that I'm posting this blog some where in the US one more person dies because they haven't received an organ transplant. Do I need to say more! Register on line today.

LUNCH WITH KIDS FROM LOGAN

2009-03-28T10:26:00.003-07:00

On my way home from Spending a few days with some friends in SLC I decided to meet up with our three kids from Logan and have lunch with them at the famous Maddox's Family Restaurant. Of course Kayson was having a great time. He is so fun to be with and watching him smile and laugh makes it all worth it. I have to say also that Jessica is a beautiful mom. She has become what I knew she would be from the time she was a little girl. Not only is she pretty but a great mother. She must have learned that from her own mom. Jason has a little thing going on with hair on his chin that I teased him about ....He assures me that its for alittle while, anyways (I just hope not to long) Even Jason looks so happy .....campus wildlife is something to smile about I guess. I loved seeing him with his sisters. Its getting him home for a visit that we're having a tough time doing....he works all the time and studies very hard. I'm proud of him.

You just have to love Jenna's smile. She is so pretty and happy. You never know what makes Jenna tick she is so fun to be with and we couldn't be more proud of her either. She has this bubbly personality that just makes you want to hug her. She is so fun She and Kayson have a thing going on. They really do enjoy each other. All that babysitting for Jessica has bonded them together for life I think.

The highlight of lunch, had to be our walk back to the car, watching Kayson Run. He is ready to be walking and wants so badly to just run as fast as he can go. He laughs and smiles the whole time. Jessica thinks he is going to love being outside this summer. Bryan can't wait for him to find his walking legs either.....I'm afraid that once he is able to walk on his own Jessica may never see the two of them because they'll always be off hiking somewhere.

Now what more could a grandpa ask for then to have his grandson sitting on his lap listening to a good book about baby animals. I rarely get this opportunity to have a quiet minute with him so this picture is extra special for me. Kayson is really listening and enjoys books.

Here we are all together having a great time. Tammi, we sure have some great looking kids don't' we? We're going to need to do that again soon. Its too bad we didn't have Jordan, Jayme and Tammi there as well. I guess its time for a family picture soon. Thanks for the fun lunch kids I really enjoyed it. It was a highlight of my trip!

When Sister's Get together there's nothing but Fun and Smiles......not to mention Kisses

2009-03-15T17:25:00.004-07:00

Spring Break for the college kids was this past week and we had everyone home at one time or another. Girls are always having fun and after I got to see some of their pictures decided to post a few. they are always having a good time with each other and frankly I think they miss
spending time with each other .....they can be crazy too!

Kayson couldn't get away from all the kisses. His aunts make sure he is loved more than anyone little guy could imagine. I kind of think he likes all the attention he gets when his aunts get together. Jordan and Jenna loving him up! Not even dear old Dad gets this kind of lovin. They just ask for me for either money or car keys. Oh how times have changed. Its fun watching them throw the love around though I have to admit. Kayson enjoys it too. I did take notice as to how they were all trying to teach him to give kisses back .....they can hardly wait for him to give kisses back. For now they settle for smiles and hugs which he freely gives.

A Cheer leading Roadtrip with five girls and one Guy and look what happens to the guy!

2009-03-09T14:58:00.003-07:00

This picture was taken right before the BIG Cheer Leading Competition Road trip to Boise this past weekend. You can see what happened to Kayson ...........Do I really need to say anything more except next time Kayson Bump pa will come to the rescue.

None of this fruity looking stuff for my grand son.

Five Girls and a Boy all on a roadtrip WOW!

Jordan had a cheer competition in Boise and Jessica and Jenna came up to offer their support to her. I think the highlight was having Kayson come along with them. As you can see they all seem to have a blast . Jason showed up just in time for Dad to buy him dinner while the girls were gone. It has been fun having the kids home but Jenna had to leave yesterday to go back to work. Jason leaves on Tuesday and Jessica will leave on Wed.

Tammi will get her cuddles in and we'll all enjoy laughing at Kayson. He brings so much joy everywhere he goes.

Love you kids!

Relaxing

2009-03-05T12:12:00.006-07:00

There's one thing about being a kid, you don't have to worry about taxes, bills or world affairs.

You get to sit back watch a little Lion King and enjoy the day as it comes.

Kayson is sure doing just that. Can you imagine him any more relaxed? He sure enjoyes kicking back and watching his favorite show Lion King.

Its such a cute picture. I had to post it. I love the hat! And for a little guy to wear it all the time ...he must too!

Can you tell that we're just so proud of this little guy? Can hardly wait to see him again.

Our family is so busy with various things mostly fighting colds and flu like symptoms . Trying to stay healthy and up to date with everything that is going on with our kids. Jordan is busy getting ready for Cheer competition this weekend and all the girls will be looking forward to that trip to support her up in Boise. Jayme has figured out the best time to practice the Piano is early in the morning, I on the other hand have discovered the pillow doesn't drown out the noise as well as I would like it too. Spring break is coming up in a few weeks perhaps there will be a few mornings where she will forego the piano and sleep in ( could I be so lucky) Anyways, she does do a great job at it so I shouldn't complain when she practices.

We're all actually doing quite well and anticipate Spring to be here soon or at least we're hoping it does. Donate life month is next month so besure to register to be a donor if your not already one. We need as many donors as we can get. In closing, perhaps Kayson knows something more about the Lion King and the circle of life song than we do.....it wouldn't hurt to sit down and watch it again! Taxes, bills and world affairs will still be there after its over!

Cheer and Dance

2009-02-12T13:48:00.006-07:00

I have to admit I have the cutest cheerleader in the high school. Jordan is following the foot steps of her sisters with being the third cheerleader in the family. Jayme is certain to follow their lead as well when the time is right. Jordan is cheering at a game in this picture and with her cute smile I couldn't resist a picture. I love to go see them cheer and every once in a while I catch them looking over to see if I'm really watching. Jordan gives me this smile each time I look at her. You have to admit she is very cute!!!

During one of the recent basketball games both Jordan and Jayme Danced at half time. The pictures weren't very good due to being so far away but I tried. Here is Jayme and she always looks to make sure we're watching her. She is a excellent dancer and very cute I might add.

Jordan is dancing at the same time on another part of the gym floor. Tammi and I enjoy watching them and they do a great job.

Of course I think my girls are the cutest ones because they are!

Good job girls!

HEY!!! You want to come over and Play?

2009-02-08T18:28:00.006-07:00

Hey! You want to come over and play? I get around in my walker pretty good now and I have this thing that you jump in that really takes off. I get mom "laugh-ing out loud" Dad to for that matter. They think I'm pretty cool stuff. I'm talking more and we're going to the Aggie games quite a bit lately, I'm learning to yell like the guys but I usually wait til I get home . My Aunt Bugz, Aunt Goose and Aunt Meme came down with Nanna yesterday and we had a blast, of course I had to show them all the new stuff I've learned and ....hello are you listening to me ? I have to really put on a good show for them. They come in and the first thing they all want to do is see me and throw down kisses and hugs....its way cool to have women chasing after me all day long. I get quite alot of attention actually. They love me what can I say. Anyways, dad went out shooting his gun, He does that right before Nanna and my aunts come down. I think its a trigger response to anxiety build up. Mom says hes going to have fun but I think blasting targets to kingdom come sort relieves tensions of relative sort. I read that in a doctor Seuss book. Well I better be going for now. I got to go play ...........show off! ........ is what doctor seuss calls it. Chow!

PaParazzi Hits Again.

2009-01-31T14:33:00.005-07:00

It never fails any more...... for the past six months of my new famed life I've had to battle the paparazzi. Its everywhere! Even in my own home I can't get away from it. The paparazzi follows me everywhere. I can't even go on a trip to my Nanna's house or even to Grandma Wendy's without the flash going off. Its embarrassing to say but they have even tried to get me while I'm taking a bath can you imagine? When I go to my Aunt bugz......... cameras pop out all over. In this picture I'm finally fighting back. Here in this photo I'm grabbing the guys camera..........I'll show him not to put that thing in my face again. If I get it I find that the quickest thing to do is put it in my mouth and slobber all over it, it ruins the digital pictures not to mention what it does to the camera. There really should be a study done on the affects of flash blindness to toddlers......hmmmmm I wonder if Obama has that in the stimulus package!

Relaxing On a Cold Winter NIght

2009-01-31T14:09:00.006-07:00

On a cold winter night there isn't anything better than sitting by a fire place working on a puzzle, just ask Jordan our puzzle guru in the family. Jordan is exceptional at doing puzzles and loves to do them for hours. She has the patience for that sort of thing.

Here she is working on a 1000 piece puzzle and smiling the whole time. Tammi and Jayme seem to find the time is better served to play a good game of cards or domino's.

Without having Jason and Jenna here things get pretty slow going after a long day of running here and there. I'm so pooped out by the end of the day that I just watch and listen to all the girls. They are truly a lot of fun and with our older kids gone, we have time to get caught up on their day's activities. Its a rare moment when we can all be home together to just enjoy being home because of all the games and things Jordan has going on. So after dinner, games, puzzles, scripture time and then I'm off to bed.

I can often times here them all laughing and giggling about some funny thing that's happened.

It really doesn't get any better than this on a cold winter night.

A Busy Weekend but Super Fun!

2009-01-20T15:34:00.007-07:00

Our weekend began with the arrival of Jessica and Kayson. And did we have fun with our little guy. (oh and we enjoyed jessica too) He has been so fun for all of us and we played all day and night long. Kayson is wired twenty four seven. This guy has more energy than the local sub station. He keeps you laughing and loves to cuddle his aunts and Grandma Nanna. His walker is always on the move when he's in it.

We love how he can talk with us and by the time he was leaving, we actually had him waving goodbye. There must have been 100 goodbyes this weekend as each person has to give him up to someone else there was always a goodbye attached to it. I even think at times a timer is set for the next person who gets their turn. No one person has him longer 10 - 12 minutes because someone else is right there ready to take over. Frankly I'm surprised that he can walk at all, there is always someone ready to hold him and cuddle this little guy!

You can tell by this picture to the left that he has some serious things to tell you and you better be listening when he tells you or else he lets you know about it. We love having him here and enjoy jessica too!

You know it .........he's cute isn't he!

Jessica had the greatest time doing hair this past weekend. She always has a smile and loves making alittle extra money on the side.

I t does wear her out but with the help she gets with Kayson...its all worth it to her.

Everyone got cuts but her dad...oh well now I have an excuse to go to logan and see her right!

I was able to capture this moment when the trees were iced over. The weather has brough so much fog lately and one morning looking out at the tree house tree I took this picture, it sure has the look of cold and it was cold that morning. Winter is still here and even though we don't have alot of snow on the ground right now....we are due for another storm. Feb hasn't gotten here yet and there usually is a storm during the month of Feb. We'll have to see January is going so fast before long it will be April.

Another thing we did was make cookies, well actually jayme made the cookies and we ate them. She has picked up where jenna left off being our cookie maker. She loves to bake anything that needs frosting. We're still trying to find a good cold winter day to make cinn rolls.

Jessica and I enjoy doing that and we thought we were going to get that done but hair kind of took priority this weekend. Thanks Jayme for the treats we loved them.

Aside from 20 calls from Jason and none from Jenna this past weekend I guess we need to get off the computer and call daughter number 2 and find out why. We miss our kids that are away to school and understand how they don't want to come home because they are having so much fun. Well here's a news flash for them if you want to raid the pantry you 'll have to come home to do it....new rule is, no one is taking food back to the college kids. You want food from the pantry you need to come home to get it for yourself ! Hopefully we might see one of them sooner rather than later. Disclaimer.......no we're not trying to starve our kids, we just want to see them once in a while, and food has a tendency to get at least one of them here......we're not sure how to get jenna home yet!

Well what a great weekend we had and all the good home cooking and treats wow! Its great to be alive and its even greater when you can see your own kids being great parents. WE love it..

Jenna are you out there? If you happen to read this .............phone home. We'd love to hear from you some time. We miss you!

You gotta love his smile!

2009-01-07T11:50:00.005-07:00

Christmas for us this year really wasn't about presents but rather being together and spending what time we had together having fun and just enjoying each other. It was the first time since Jason left on his mission that we were all together for Christmas.

I think this picture describes the general feeling of just happiness and joy that we did have this time together. Kayson has been a real bright spot in our lives and we love having him here. We even like it when Jessica and Bryan come with him, its kind of an extra bonus. Everyone has a great time playing with Kayson and throwing down kisses and hugs on him. He doesn't seem to mind all the attention and rarely has time to cry with so many hands in line to grab him up and go play for awhile. Jessica and Bryan are learning to be great parents. With all is Aunts and Uncle just dying to hold him there is often times debate as to whose turn it is. There is no way this child will ever be spoiled there are too many people that know before he does what he wants, when he wants it and how he wants it. At five months old he has all the attention he could ever want let alone need.

Tammi, Jayme and I got to watch him this past weekend while Jessica, Bryan and Jordan made their way to the ski slopes and snowboarded all day saturday. It was fun to have him and Jayme did really good as the official babysitter.

Another year has come and gone and now we are off to another great year. Its exciting to think what the new year will bring. Hopefully, our Logan kids (Jessica, Bryan, Kayson, Jason and Jenna) will make it home often. Now that they are all down in the Logan area together we hope they will get together once in while and have dinner.

Jordan, Jayme, Tammi and I are adjusting to just the four of us now at home. I thought with Jenna and Jason gone things would slow down but the girls are determined to not let it, so we are as busy as ever. To everyone out there we hope your new year celebration was one to remember and now that we're off and running with the new year.....hang on! We're in for a heck of a ride. You gotta love it though !!!! Enjoy

Christmas Party 2008

2008-12-23T15:38:00.004-07:00

This past saturday we had 32 people in our home for Tammi's family Christmas party and wow talk about a zoo.

We had food, food , food. and the cousins were happy to get caught up on what everyone was doing and some of the visits were really special as they hadn't seen each other for as many as two years or more due to missions and school.

We will soon be losing Jason once again to school this time in Logan. He has been working so hard and saved his money to buy his car and save for school housing. He will be gone the first of January. I think he is sick of being home and ready to begin some serious dating ...his major at Utah state is Campus wild life (in other words... women)

Jenna decided to color her hair and went way dark. Personally her mom and I like her blonde hair better but she is still cute just the same and when she does a blonde thing....well once a blonde always a blonde right? She is still silly as ever and yes she still has that cute smile.

Jordan misses her big sister being downstairs with her. You know the late night chit chat's. Jenna leaves to go back to Logan on the 26th for work reasons..yes I said work. She finally found a job and now she has to get saving for her next years schooling.

As for the rest of us well we're still trying ot get caught up with Jordan and Jayme who seem to keep both Tammi and I running. After school activities are killing me but hey 5 months more and school will be out and Jordan should have her drivers lic. by then. That will be a blessing to me she can start driving to some of these things.

Our home has been warm with all of Tammi's decorations for Christmas and lights to boot. Now 2 more days and we can put it all away for another year. Wow 2008 really went fast and you know, I think I'm going to make it, without spending 3 weeks in the hospital for the first time in 8 years...something to celebrate I think. Feb 17th marks the 8th year for me. I never thought in a million years I would ever get this far. Its been a blessing to see my kids grow up and to enjoy this time with them.

Merry Christmas everyone and may your new year be one of the best ever. WE love you and wish we could see you all on Christmas day.

The Holidays are here!

2008-12-07T12:01:00.003-07:00

Christmas came early for Jason this year as he managed to buy himself a car. 2001 buick century and now we'll never see him as he has been gone ever since he closed on the deal. You could say that he is one happy man right now. I'm pretty proud of him for managing to buy it him self and yes, it was a hard lesson to learn with all of the other expenses that come with it like insurnace and tax & lic. Dad threw in some old tires that were pretty good still that I took off another car .....luckily they fit his car perfect.

Jordan has been super busy with cheer leading and oh yes....she is now driving but not with out a lic. driver over 21. She received her permit a few weeks ago and you guessed it everywhere we go its dad can I drive or I come out of the house to find her already behind the wheel ready to drive dad in to town. Well I guess thats one way to spend time with your daughter. She does have a braking problem. The next time you see me I'll either be in a neck brace or she'll have managed to figure it out without sending me into the windshield. Oh how fast they grow up what ever happened to my little girl that used to love watching videos like Bambi and Cinderella or reading books on my lap. Wow time sure flies doesn't it?

And then we know we're into the Holidays when we have performance after performance for dance. Jayme has been very busy between school projects and dance, piano as well. Jayme has become a really great aunt.......making her way with her brother to Logan to help give Jessica a hand with Kayson. Feeding a real baby is nothing like the dolls at home, at least her experience is that Kayson moves a lot fast, and all the time vs her baby doll at home that just sits there.

Oh feeding a baby....real baby food couldn't be any funner!

We had a great thanksgiving...from my own perspective anytime you can celebrate Thanksgiving and remember the next day is a good one. Compared to last year this was a walk in the park.

There is great excitement in the air as Christmas is quickly making its way towards us but again for me its the end of the year that I'm really looking forward to. If I can mange to stay out of the hospital for three more weeks it will be the first time in 9 years that I've not spent at least 3 weeks in the hospital during any one year. Celebration time is coming...............I feel a party coming on! And its not new years eve either.

I know such silly things to celebrate and look forward to but when you 've been where I have, you would have a better understanding just how that feels.

Our family seems to be going in so many different directions its hard sometimes to keep up with them. Life is great isn't it? You just have to be grateful for everything the Lord has blessed you with even the hardships for without those we would never really know how great life is. Merry Christmas to you all and we truly hope you had a great thanksgiving ...I know I did.

One last thing..........Enjoy it! You have to enjoy it for it to really mean anything.

2008-10-27T16:02:00.005-07:00

I have discovered my voice and I love to put things in my mouth. I love being home with my mom. I'm a really happy little guy.

Jason's home coming talk

2008-10-27T10:52:00.002-07:00

Jayme and Kayson had a good time playing this weekend. Kayson gets passed around quite abit probably more than he cares....but he loves aunt meme.

Anyone that knows our family knows there is only 3 real brown haired people in it. Even if the blondes want to try to be more like us sometimes their actions just scream blonde!!! Jenna and Jordan doing what they like to do best, goofing around. Its a good thing they have a wonderful sister that keeps them smiling with up do's down do's and brown do's......these two aren't fooling anyone but it is fun to see them having fun. Watch Jayme will probably want to go blonde....on second thought....she's smarter than that!

Oh ! sisters!!!!! They do love each other and I think they miss each other too.

Sorry, I'm not in my church clothes I had already changed and wasn't about to change back into them for a picture.

It feels so good to have some other men in the picture.

I'm sure blessed to have such a great looking family.

This picture was taken after all our company left from dinner. We must have fed 36 people and had a great time visiting and catching up. Jason did a great job too on his talk.

HANGING WITH MY MOM AND DAD!!

2008-10-14T19:16:00.003-07:00

Well let me explain some thing to you, you see me and my dad were hanging out watching Wild America, something about the Elk fighting during the mating season quite interesting actually but mom pulls out the camera and well you know my dad, he loves to have his picture taken. I get it all the time so its really no big deal for me. Mom sticks that camera in my face at least six times a day, I'm kind of used to being fussed over and you know, the hollywood treatment thing! As for me, that Wild America had my attention. Dad says he's gonna take me hunting someday. WE're getting to be pretty good pals.

This is me and MOM hanging out together . Actually I'm doing most of the hanging but mom is busy cleaning and doing stuff. I really just sit here and hang on for my dear life because well when she gets going she really is on the move. Its all I can do to stay out of her way. She has me strapped into this thing here and wow its like mom kicks into what my dad calls overdrive. My mom is pretty cute thats why dad married her, I heard him talking to himself the other day, when she ran into the store and as she was walking in dad says "I sure have a cute wife." There you have it, its genetics, thats why they call me "Hollywood" I got a buff dad(thats what mom calls him ) and a cute mom(thats what dad calls her) so it makes me a cute little buff! Thats why people are always taking my picture. My new thing lately is reading, I love to read. But eating is still my favorite thing to do. Boy do I like going to grandma smiths house. I was up there the other day and looking at all the treats she has for everyone. Its a kids paradise thats for sure. I can't wait til I'm a little older. Then maybe she'll have my favorite treat too. Bump pa is still diggin out from the snow storm they had and grandpa is getting the snow machines ready to go. Life is really going good right now......I even have aunt Bugz coming to see me everyday she is so much fun. We have a blast together. I'm kind of like her trainer. I'm not quite sure what mom means by that but when I figure it out I'll let you know.

What do you do when it snows out? Get your hair colored of course!

2008-10-14T18:40:00.003-07:00

Winter hit us hard on Saturday morning. This is what we woke up to. By day's end we had over 18 inches of new fallen snow and it was still coming down.

This is a view from our front room out to the front of the house.
Jason managed to play snow plow until he was too cold to continue and had to warm up. Being in Honduras for 2 years he hadn't seen snow or felt this cold in a long time. As a matter of fact I remember him saying while on his mission he forgot what it was like to be cold......well it didn't take long to remind him !
This is out the back door off the deck and you can see the grill is put up for now but the sprinklers are needing to be blown out or they will freeze. We are now praying that this snow will melt to get a chance to do just that...otherwise we might be replacing alot of sprinkler pipe next spring.

The girls took advantage of having their number one hair dresser home for the weekend and I must say Jordan took on the biggest change going from blonde to brown. We all think she looks cute with her new hair color.....she loves the attention.
Or should I say the lack thereof, because know one knows the new girl thats moved into their school, including the boys who were quick to take notice of a new girl in town!!!

Are you listening to Me?

2008-10-10T12:48:00.003-07:00

Dad..........Dad, Hey Daaaaaaad!

Are you awake over there? How do I get this Safety 1 tonka bike of mine to move?

I'm going to be needing bigger wheels than this dad. Can we think about trading it in on a different color I really don't like the color but mom does. Plus the seat is just a little to high for me to reach the pegs.

Dad are you listening?

Mom says I look cute on my motorcross. Frankly, I think this mirror with the face sticking out of it looks kind of funny, but mom says its to have at least another set of eyes on the road.

Dad's watching the news..something about Utah State getting blown out again, this time by bump pa's school down south.

Oooppp's Speaking of blow outs! I think my rear end has a leak.

Dad when is mom coming home?

You better not let mom catch you eating on the couch....she doesn't like finding your chocolate chips everywhere. She might take your bike away. Beside aunt bugz needs those chips to make cookies.

Since mom is gone, can I stay up for a while? Dad, Dad are you listening to me dad?

Boy, he's gonna be in trouble when mom gets home!

Trick or Treat here we come!

2008-10-09T15:37:00.004-07:00

With Halloween just around the corner I thought I would look for a special picture or two to kind of get us in the mood. Here are a few classics in our family

Our family tends to get into to it just a little bit.........but from what I hear, Bryans grandmother Arda has the house of all houses during Halloween.... So if your not getting ready ---you should be and if you think you're to old just ask Arda how much fun she has with her house for halloween. We hear its way cool!!!! HAPPY HALLOWEEN!!!!

Cute, cute ,cute!!!!!!!!

2008-10-01T08:57:00.004-07:00

Yes, these are medical gloves on their feet.... Our sump pump went out and some cleaning in the mechanical room was necessary. My girls decided that walking around in water (unclean water) was cause to get creative. Jordan took the time to make sure each toe had a place....Jessica on the the other hand...no pun intended...didn't really care what it looked like. How these girls have fun no matter what they are doing. Just hearing them giggle and laugh make me smile.
I really do have the cutiest girls, Clorox never had such cuter models for their product line. You have to admit they are cute sisters. Thanks for your help girls. I love ya!

Jason Made it Home !!!

2008-09-25T14:20:00.002-07:00

Jason finally made it home after a very long travel day. He left Tegucigalpa, Honduras around 7:00 am after getting up at 4 to be to the airport by 5am and then flying to San salvador then on to Houston, Tx from there to Salt Lake City and then on up to Twin Falls, Idaho where we met him just in time.

We were all excited to see him and even though it was very late that night we enjoyed seeing him. His Grand pa Morley came with us to greet him and it wasn't long before they both were speaking Spanish back and forth leaving the rest of us only to wonder what they were talking about.

Jason Couldn't believe his eyes when he saw how much Jordan and Jayme had grown up. They loved seeing him and were all smiles. Jayme had her big brother home again. She missed him alot and has enjoyed having him home playing games with her and having a good laugh. Jordan was alot taller than when he left so that was a surprise to him.
He got a super big hug and kiss from his mother and as you can tell it always makes him smile because she has to reach up so high to kiss him on the cheek. He's pretty tall so he thinks he's cool.

We haven't let him waste time getting back into the swing of things. Doctors appointment today and well lets jsut say he's started on my list of things to help me get done around here. He's got this farmers hat on from Honduras and a pair of shades to hide behind. I think he is glad he's home but I have noticed an appreciation for the wonderful people he met in Honduras. He truly came to love them. Jason was released Wed. Morning at 10:15 by his Stake President and gave such wise counsel as to not get inot debt and to try and remain a faithful member missionary. He speaks a good Spanish and loves it. We're so happy he is home safe!

Waiting for the game!

2008-09-22T10:33:00.006-07:00

This is the life isn't it? I'm just sitting here chillin, watching a little TV waiting for America's Team, the Boston Red Sox to come on, you do realize they won the world series last year and my favorite basketball team the Celtics took the World Championship last year as well. We won't talk about the Patriots right now we're kind of giving them some time to grief, but hey, they did go undefeated in the regular season. Anyways, I pretty much rule the roost around here. Dads on a hike, moms trying to get a shower in and well you know me, I just finished eating and you can tell I'm a happy little guy right now. Aunt Bugz is coming over in a little while and she'll tend to my every screeching call. She is getting used to my voice commands pretty good now. I just have to make a sound and she is right there. Mom told me not to poop my pants right now but to wait until aunt bugz's gets here then I can do what ever. She doesn't like it when I have an accident right before she walks out the door...you know it tends to slow her down a bit. She asked me to either wait for aunt bugz or for dad. My uncle Jason is coming home on Tuesday....their gonna have a guys night for him. I heard something along the lines of steak and shrimp are involved. Dad and me had a guys night the other night, Dad fell alseep and well, lets just say he should take shorter hikes he might stay up longer. Anyways, he was telling me something about yamaha and honda.

I wasn't suppose to tell mom, its between us guys, you know that kind of thing. I don't really understand all that about investing in motorcross relief fund but dad says its the safest fun to own. I guess I could ask my grandpa Westerberg see what he thinks. Well the game is about ready to start I really should be going.....hey did you hear Utah State won a football game! Can you believe that.........aunt bugz was there, thats why! My bump pa says, Relax, take it easy, life is too short. You have to enjoy the moment.....LOOK At MY FACE, Do I look happy or What? I haven't even hit 3 yet!

I Might As Well Act Like A Movie Star, My Picture Is Taken Like Everyday!!!

2008-09-12T10:11:00.006-07:00

Yo, what's up hollywood? Just chillin here... soaking up the attention and feeling the Love. You gotta love all this attention I'm getting! Girls everywhere.....my aunts can't get enough of me....and then there's my Nanna, she throws down kisses on me like I was a million bucks and she just hit the jack pot! I poop on 'em, spit up on 'em and they just keep coming for more. Nothing I can do to get them off me. I even sparkle (fart) stink up the place and hey they still keeping throwing down the love. I haven't even hit 3 years old yet, and I've got more women lovin on me than I can handle. Can you imagine what its going to be like for me when I hit two or three? My life is gonna be great! I have my Aunt Bugs wrapped around my finger. Its a tough job but someone has to keep these women happy....so what, if I have to put up with nanna's cheek kissing marathon....I'm on my way to being SPOILED .....S-pecial, P-erson, O-f, I-nterest, L-oved, E-very, D-ay. I roll over on command for my aunt bugs of course. Well for now I'm gonna sit back relax in the arms of beautiful women and just chill. The way I figure it by the time I'm three, I'll pretty much be bigger than Elvis. Chow

Jenna is finally off to COLLEGE !!!!

2008-08-26T15:18:00.005-07:00

One of the most difficult times Tammi and I face are when we have to send our kids off to school or mission. Wow its like ripping your heart out isn't it? You spend so much of your time watching over them and making sure they are safe and then one day you wake up and here you are sending them away from home, knowing they will probably never spend much time at home again. Its what every parent prepares them to do but you never are quite ready for them to leave. I guess when your heart gets ripped out of you, you know you love them more than life its self.

Anyways shes off and running and for now I'll enjoy each and every phone call she makes to ask all the questions Jessica had when she left home. Jason was quite different as he entered the MTC he couldn't call home but had to deal with things himself... he turned out ok so I'm sure Jenna will manage as well. We love you and Jordan says things are not the same downstairs without her......do you think we might see more of Jordan now ????? my guess is that she'll Jayme will make up for missing Jenna. Already she is Jordan 's shadow. Maggy knows something isn't right because she's gone into depressed mode without Jenna here.

Our baby is getting cuter and well lets just say when this boy is ready to eat he better have mom close by. We have loved having Jessica and Kayson here and how fun he is going to be when he can do something...... you know what I mean they just eat , poop, and cry at this age so its okay but I can't wait til he's 3 that's going to be the fun age.

You can see Tammi and I are pretty proud of this little guy! You don't think Tammi is happy do you? She is going to be a super grandmother! I think Kayson knows her pretty good too. She's spent a lot of time with him already.

Jason home in a few weeks and Jordan and Jayme enjoying new schools this year. Jordan started drivers ed today so look out she'll be driving soon. Jayme is now in the fourth grade and I think she is already one of the teachers favorites. She loves her teacher and loves her new school.

We now have a family of Hummingbirds!!

2008-08-08T11:18:00.005-07:00

Yes, I do have too much time on my hands but just yesterday Tammi told me that she and Jordan were watching the hummingbirds in the early morning hours and enjoyed them as well. This little guy is so fun to watch. We now have a family of them fighting over the sugar water. They are so close to my window and taking pictures of them has been fun. Its not easy to get a picture of a hummingbird....just try it if you think it is. You have to be patient and quick because they don't stay around for long. For the past week me and the girls have watched in amazement as these little guys fly and hover around.

Well for news, Summer is almost over and it will be back to school very shortly. I think everyone is ready really, Jenna going off to Utah State College and Jordan starting high school. Jayme will be moving to a new school this year and will go into the 4th grade. Tammi is going into a new sport called office boxing, you 'll have to ask her about it she'll be more than willing to tell you about her near death experience. Boxing classes here she comes! Its been a summer of mowing lawns and trying to eat for me. Jason will soon be home and yes, we even get our daily dose of KAYSON....that's really weird, the name sounds like Jason he eats like Jason and before long he'll be as big as Jason. I'm going on record now as saying this little guy is going to be a hand full! He's going to need a lot of Aunt's to keep an eye on this guy when he gets moving......wow, he's only a month old and already looks like 6 months of age. The idea that Tammi and I are grandparents is beginning to sink, not because of the pictures we see everyday but because Tammi reminds me everyday. Oh its going to be fun.........

Twin Falls Temple will open soon and I must say; being there with my girls in both the sealing rooms and the celestial room was very special for me....something I will always cherish. Hopefully, pictures of that temple will make my blog very soon. I should of had the camera that day but forgot to take it with us.

Picking up Christopher Gregoire to take him to the MTC will be the next big thing we get to do and we are so excited about the missions for both Christopher and Stacey. How exciting! With school starting and Jason coming home we are going to be busy the rest of the month.

So far its been a great summer and I can't wait for FALL to get here. My favorite time of the year.

Proud Parents

2008-07-10T12:10:00.004-07:00

Well Jessica finally had her baby on Wed. July 9th at around 1:13 pm. She had called her mom to tell her that she was going to deliver before noon and before you knew it we all were on our way to Logan to see the baby. Talk about excitement! I think Tammi kicked in to high gear before we made it out of town. She was so excited. The girls all were just to excited to wait any longer. Mother and baby are great as you can see. Dad was a little tired and so wasn't mom after getting to the hospital at 3:00am and being in labor all night and half the day.

Kayson Terry Westerberg is his name and he weighed in at a little 9 pounds and 13 ozs. Just shy under 10 pounds. He has big hands and a good set of lungs. He was 20 inches long and kicked the entire way out Jessica says. They make a wonderful looking family I think.

As for the grand parents well Terry and Wendy have grand children already but adding another one to the list is super. Tammi is excited and I feel blessed to get to see another event happen that I never thought I would get to see. My first grand child be born. Cross that one off the list!
WOW!

For me one of the special moments of the day was when I got to see Bryan's grand mother Arda, tenderly whisper to Kayson and hold him in her arms. She is such a wonderful lady of grace and beauty. She is what you imagine every grand mother and great grand mother to be. What a special moment that was for not only her but for all of us that was there to see her with a great grand son.

Now we will look forward to the blessing probably in Aug. We are so excited to have a grand son and to begin that chapter of our lives as Jessica completes a circle with having her own baby now. I still can't believe she is now a mom. Congratulations Jessica and Bryan!

Fireworks 2008 - Mom and the girls

2008-07-07T13:32:00.004-07:00

Well I can't believe its over already! All the hype and work we all put into fireworks and its over. We had some very nice warm days and this year more than ever before, the weather was on our side, both in regards to storms and a cool breeze now and again. Jordan enjoyed the first year of being able to be in the booth selling fireworks. I think she did a great job her first year. She know now how to count change back properly. Jayme was in charge of the jump toy outside and needless to say, did all the running back and forth to Johns market to buy the treats everyone had to have once in awhile. She and Jordan were big helpers this year. And as usual, Jenna queen of set up, did a fantastic job of set up. Everything was perfect. Jenna has done our set up for quite a few years now and its always great to have her help in that way. She takes command like shes in her own world. I think Jenna would do good at event planning because she is so good at organizing, she is good at it.

WE didn't have Jessica and Jason this year, of course having a baby does take priority over being away from the booth and even serving the Lord is a good reason to be absent. Jason will really come in handy next year with his Spanish speaking abilities. We should be able to clean house next year. I think mom and Dad will be in charge of watching our grandson while the kids can finally take over the booth and run with it.

I can envision it now...Tammi and I with little Bry in the back seat going to Dairy Queen, spoiling our first grandson with an ice cream treat. How fun!

We've kind of had this fireworks on our calendar for quite some time.....getting it over means we are so close to Jessica having that baby and Jason coming home. Its an exciting time to be alive.

Now if I can keep the lawn mowed and watered I'll be doing find. We are all on edge now waiting for the big news. Wondering what day Jessica will deliver.....to make matters more interesting Maggie is expecting as well sometime between Jessica and Jason. Jenna will be leaving soon to go to Logan to start at school at Utah State and we'll have to move her down there. Girls have a trip for school clothes ( fireworks money) its already killing them. And of course we have to pick up Christopher Gregoire at the airport on the 12th of Aug and take him to the MTC on the 13th. We are excited to spend his last night with him before leaving on his mission. We are going to have a blast with him. So many things to look forward to and so much to be grateful for. I can say....I feel very blessed to be a part of it all.

Hope you all have a great July! Can you believe the year is more than half over already?

Learning to drive the Lawn Mower

2008-06-20T17:04:00.004-07:00

As I watched Jenna teaching Jayme to drive the lawn mower I thought I need to get a picture of this. Jayme learned to mow and Jenna got her excerise running along side of her to help steer. Jordan on the other hand took things all in stride as usual and enjoyed the horses and her dog.

I love seeing them do things together and having fun. I have to admit I enjoyed watching them from the deck and even though the lines in the lawn were crooked....watching my girls was entertaining and fun for me. How blessed I am for all that I have and how precious my time is with them. Losing Jenna this summer will be difficult but know she is doing what she is suppose to do as will Jason when he comes home.

Soon we'll have a new baby in the family, wow, tell me it's all real and not a dream. Where your heart is, there will be your treasure. And my treasure runneth over. Life is sweet even though we all have problems to work through. How blessed I am to have a moment. Hope everyone is enjoying their summer so far. Its time to fire up the grill!

Girls, Girls, Girls Can't wait for Jason to get home!

2008-06-08T11:25:00.008-07:00

First, I have to say I do have the prettiest girls in the whole wide world. And when they get together and start laughing, they are so fun to be with. Jayme with her dark hair is already learning tricks to the hair trade.

You have to admit they do have great smiles don't they?

Daddy's angles! If you look close you can see that little twinkle in their eyes that kind of melts me away every time they ask me for something. You gotta love it though, they are daddy's girls!

Jessica came home yesterday long enough to laugh a little and have a baby shower that her mom and sisters put on for her friends here in Burley. I would say that she is well prepared now I think.

Isn't she cute? Bryan is lucky to have such a cute wife I think but hey I'm just her dad so I am little partial.

Here are a few pics of her 8 months Pregnant. She is cute and I think she has grown from the last time we saw her. She says she feels like she is ready to pop!

Mother Daughter picture now you know where they get half of their good looks......and you guessed it the second half comes from me of course.

I can't wait for Jason to get home just a little too much estrogen around here for me.

Say hi to the girls

Summer is for Washing Cars

2008-06-03T13:03:00.004-07:00

It was a great day for the girls to wash my car and with the sun shining they decided to do just that. With three of them doing it, it takes just a few minutes what would take me all day. Thank you girls, for a job well done.

Summer break from school started last week and now we have a chance to unwind from all the school activities and dance stuff that keeps them busy during the year. Fireworks will soon be here but hey, where did the month of MAY go?

We barely got into it before it was gone! WOW time sure goes fast doesn't it?

We are so excited that soon after fireworks (we hope anyways and not in the middle of) Jessica will have her baby! So June and July are packed with excitement and busy days ahead. Oh and we certainly can't forget about Fathers day coming up....I said Fathers days is coming up.....did I forget to mention Fathers Days is coming up? So all of you fathers have a special day to look forward to because its FATHERS DAY coming up! FATHERS DAY IS A GREAT DAY FOR FATHERS. You know how it is ties, shirts, Ipods, even a new CD are just some of the gifts FATHERS get on FATHERS DAY. Hey hugs are great too on FATHERS DAY. It's just a really good Day....FATHERS DAY is. Sometimes you even get your favorite meal prepared for you. You get to take a nap if you want and maybe even a special treat for later. Its a great day.

You just have to love this time of the year....now if we had a few lobsters to go with it!

Awards Night for Jordan and Dance Recital Pic's

2008-05-25T20:13:00.003-07:00

I guess you could say being cute runs in the family! I'm a little behind in posting the things that have been going on here but Jordan had an incredible awards night the other night. I didn't get to go due to fighting a bad cold but Tammi went and said that Jordan was so cute. She received an award for being so happy and cheerful all the time. Its hard to believe that she will be going to High school next year and then start drivers ed this summer as well. I can't keep up with these kids growing up. They are getting way pretty and growing into beautiful young women.

Jordan also had Dance recital with Jayme and they both did very good at that too. I was proud of them for all the hard work they put in all year and then to do this recital to show what they have learned for the year. I'm very impressed. We didn't get to have Jessica come home for recital this year but Jenna sat with Dad on the front row in his usual spot front and
center.
Even though the pictures are a little dark you can still see their smiles. They danced very well this year and had great attitudes about all the work it takes. Way to go girls! Mom and Dad are way proud of you, we love you.

Jenna's Graduation...Another Mile Stone for me.

2008-05-25T19:43:00.005-07:00

It seems like just the other day that Jenna was heading off to school for the very first time and sporting that beautiful smile of hers to boot. She is very pretty and her smile just makes people smile around her. Her Graduation night (Tuesday May 20, 2008) happened to fall on one of our worst wind storms of the Spring season. Everything was fine until we were all inside the building and then during the ceremony it hit with a powerful force. Sand soon covered the entire gym with a haze from the flying dust particles. Only moments earlier we had a cool breeze to cool off the hot gym so the doors were open and then it hit. It was so bad that we had to have pictures inside the gym and then make a run for the cars. Jenna will never forget that as we drove our cars home in a blinding sand storm. So bad that you couldn't see ten feet in front of you as you drove home. once we neared our home things were much better.

What a great night it was though watching Jenna marching with her class and then getting to see her celebrate with them as they changed their tassels to the opposite side of the cap. You can tell from the pictures we were all happy for her.

This means we are down to two children left in our family to go. For me it was sweet Joy to realize I had made another Mile stone .....one I truthfully didn't think I would ever get to see. She has been a blessing in our lives and we will miss her time away from us. We Love you Jenna and we realize just how much you do bring joy to our family. Smile forever

love

dad

Lawn Mowers Convention

2008-05-12T12:56:00.003-07:00

It couldn't of been a better day to mow lawns this past Saturday. So the girls did just that, taking some pressure off of old DAD here. Jenna is passing on the finer points to Jordan, which include Ipod adjustments on the run. Music Library for mowing and of course how to get those legs the much needed sun. You can see here on Jenna's vitage model ; Craftsman 3000 or something like that. The seat is something to be desired and yet this fine piece of machinery mows a little over an acre of grass each week...Any bets as to how long it will hold up this summer? One thing for certain I have the cutest Lawn Mowers in the circle. I have also given our place the nick name "Sylvan Winds Resort Golf Course" as I find many golf balls due to my brother in law and opposite side neighbor. They seem to like to send golf balls to my lawn, I save them to tee off my deck someday. Hopefully, windows will be spared.

Even though its cold one day and hot the next the Mowing must go on and on and on. Three times thus far this year. I think we should of thought about the gas expense when we put that much lawn it. Not even the green fees are covering the gas these days!

Keeping it real here on Sylvan Winds Resort.

Happy Birthday Grandpa Big " 90" WOW

2008-04-29T14:09:00.003-07:00

You can tell from the excitment on his face that turning 90 is no big deal. Just another day. We are so happy for you and love having you around to visit with. I think you can make it to 95 easy. Who else would keep the mail man in our area on his toes besides you. We love you and appreciate you so much. Happy Birthday!!!!!

Today was Baby Shower Day for Jessica

2008-04-27T16:22:00.005-07:00

What a great day it was for a baby shower! With so many aunts, uncles and cousins in town for the weekend it was a great time to give Jessica a baby shower. It was great at least what I saw of it. Little outfits and plenty of diapers to boot. She is really getting set up quite well. Thanks to all of her aunts and uncles and cousins that have already provided things like strollers, crib, changing tables, clothes, clothes and more clothes. This kid isn't even here yet and already as more clothes than his grandpa does.

Well we know its a boy and I think the only thing he doesn't have yet, is a motor cross outfit with a helmet to wear......but knowing Bryan its already on lay away. Including the motor cross bike !

He's got the hunting outfit this weekend probably from one of his hunting uncles no less. This being a hunting family and all. (Tammi's family) Bryan is a hunter as well so he fits right in.

Eleven weeks to go Jess says .....I think she can't wait. Back hurting and all, she still sports a cute smile as she watches this little guy make her tummy jump.

It was a great weekend and so happy for Jessica and Bryan .....remember that discussion we had about affording children .....things just happen, blessings happen!

We love having you come home. Personally, I think your mother is enjoying this Jess. Let me know if you start getting things anonymously would you...I may need to check into our credit accounts.

Its going to be a long summer of lawn mowing

2008-04-19T15:25:00.004-07:00

Well with the grass growing so fast, I had to get out there and battle the winds of Burley on what started out as a nice day and ended up in a wind storm before I finished. But hey I got it done nevertheless. Now if I can keep on top of it with the help of the girls we should have a pretty nice lawn to play on this summer. Maggy loves it and well you could say I have a big enough lawn to host the next PGA tournament, call it Sylvan Breeze Resort. Yep that's me on the lawn tractor probably where I'll be most of the summer too.

If you look closely I am wearing winter gloves.....You all know I get cold easy! And it really got cold out there. Jenna's lawn tractor looks pretty good doesn't it? Her grandpa gave it to her like three years ago when he got a new one.....I'm still not sure why he gave her a lawn tractor but maybe it was his way of giving her a car to drive! We are very grateful for it.

April is Donate Life Month

2008-04-19T12:01:00.006-07:00

Many times this month I have stopped myself and taken a minute of silence to think about a special family who endured the most difficult decision of donating their son's organs to me 7 years ago. How can anyone express appreciation that would be adequate enough to compensate for such a terrible loss to a family. I can' only imagine how difficult it would be to go through that ordeal. I'm not sure I could have done it.

This month is a great way to talk about Organ Donation and create more awareness of how needed this is. Believe it or not the statics show that even though more organs are being transplanted than ever before, we are still falling behind in saving people. The numbers are increasing and have risen to over 98,000 people now waiting for a transplant.

If your not a organ donor, please reconsider. Many states now have registries to sign up on which make it even better than having it put on your drivers license. Sign up now and make a difference in someones life. Its one of the greastest gifts you can give once your gone. When I stop and think how blessed I've been, having received my 5, I'm just amazed! I never would have seen Jessica, Jason and now Jenna Graduate. I never would have seen Jayme start school. I never would have seen Jason go on a mission or receive his eagle scout award. I never would have seen Jordan enter High school, let alone start driving. I could go on and on telling you of all the things I've been blessed with seeing and participating in. Last week I got to dance with Jenna at her Senior Prom and soon she will leave home to go to college. Jason will return from his mission and Life just keeps getting better and better. With the arrival of Jessica's first baby only a few months away.......can you believe it I'm going to a be a grandpa. WOW!

Any one that knows me knows it hasn't always been easy but is it worth it? How can anyone ask me that question. Yet, I get it all the time.

Its great to be alive, don't you think?

YOU GUESSED IT.........PROM!!

2008-04-12T16:51:00.003-07:00

Here is just a sampling of some of the pictures we took of Jenna and her boy friend Ben. Tonight is Prom night here in Burley and it has been a busy day to say the least. With Jenna taking her ACT test early this morning and having a Day Date with Ben and their group. They went four wheeling with four wheelers, not trucks but ATV's. I guess they had a great time other than Ben rolling our 4 wheeler (no worry everything was fine didn't even hurt the four wheeler) Ben got banged up a bit but everyone is safe as I stressed that a lot to them before they left.

My girls are all growing up faster than I can keep up with them. Jenna is a very pretty girl as you can see from her picture. We are going to miss her alot when she leaves for school.

Not sure where Jenna, Jordan, Jayme and Mom would be without their personal hair dresser in the family. Jessica came home to do hair for I think 5-6 different girls. Jenna lines them up and of course Jessica loves making the extra money from all the up do's she does. She has been doing everything from cutting hair to coloring hair today. So needless to say she is going to be tired as day ends.

To think I still have two more of these to go through ....if I can do it without going broke then hey we'll be doing good. Jenna has pretty hair and I love it when she gets it all done up..Very Pretty Jen!!!

Jenna's Cheer Team takes First Place

2008-03-11T11:56:00.004-07:00

Last weekend Tammi and the girls headed for Bosie to watch Jenna in her final Cheer competition. They took first place and had a great time.

You can see Jenna bottom row in the center. I'm not a hundred percent sure, but I think this is a picture of just the senior girls that will graduate with Jenna.

Her team is made up with alot more girls than what this picture shows.

WAY TO GO JENNA!!!

Just a quick update: Spring break for the kids is next week. This was the time of year we would always be sure to see Uncle Ron. We will miss him again this year. He was always alot of fun for the kids at spring break. Jenna has 14 weeks before graduation from both high school and seminary. Jessica is beginning to really have a tummy and I might add that it usually has a hand or two or three on it at any given moment. This little guy ....aka little bry until we hear the real name, seems to be playing alot of soccer in there. Jessica says he's constantly kicking. Jason has 28 weeks to go and receives a new mission President his last 6 weeks. We are all excited to see him get home. But first we have so many other things going on. Jordan has cheer tryouts starting to day in fact. Jayme has picked up on sudoku. With Spring come dance recital and the end of school for the summer Jordan is going to be taking drivers ed this summer and will get to work inside the fire works booth for the first time. Jenna leaves for school before Jason gets home so there are alot of things happening this summer. We all love the time change and looking forward to warmer days. All in all we're doing good.

SEVEN YEARS AGO TODAY !

2008-02-17T20:10:00.003-07:00

Seven years ago today, February 17,2001 I had my five organ transplant. It has been a wonderful day having Jessica and Bryan here with us. Thanks to my kids for a little Transplant celebration. Jenna made a browie desert and the girls put candles on it. Very sweet thing to do. After blowing out the candles and while I was eating my ice cream reality began to sink in for me.

It has been very difficult to make it this long and when I think of all the hospital visits, doctor visits, and lab tests. WOW it has taken alot of work and effort to get this far. Some pretty close calls and some not so fun days. Was it all worth it? Any day I can spend with my family and see my girls accomplish one more milestone or write Jason on his mission is a day well spent.

It's worth it without question.

Each time I think about that miraclous day I can't help but be reminded of a 15 year old boy who lost his life on the same day. It puts things into perspective quickly. I often think of this family and their loss. I truly hope I'm worthy enough to meet him one day. I'm sure his family often wonders and hopes a part of their son is well cared for.

My family would all agree, I'm sure, life can change in a moment. We have been blessed so much in the past seven years. The simple fact that I'm here and can be a part of my childrens lives is a blessing I don't take for granted. They are the strength that keeps me going.

Seven Years ago today! It just doesn't seem possible ... wow ! where did seven years go?

To all my family and friends, thank you so much for you prayers and support I couldn't have done it without you .

Michael

One Way To Beat Shoveling Snow!

2008-02-07T12:55:00.000-07:00

After a sizable snow storm Tammi's brother Tony made his rounds with Matt's backhoe. I must say it does take the bite out of snow shoveling. One pass with this thing and its all over. Thank you Tony!

Kids have enjoyed several days off from the recent snow storms we've had. Three days of the last four school days were called off due to the high winds and snow fall. Wind in excess of 51 miles per hour caused snow drifts as high as 3 - 4 feet in my drive way. As for the kids it couldn't of come at a better time so they could get an early Feb. break something they never get. Our Spring break isn't until March so a few snow days breaks up the long school calendar from Jan to Mar. Everyone is super busy with Games to cheer at and dance performances to go to. Jayme has been enjoying piano lessons. I think it's great for her to learn how to play that thing...besides its Tammi's way of keeping the piano around otherwise I might have gotten rid of it.

We all are excited to hear what Jessica is going to have. that will be coming up soon. Most everyone here thinks a boy except Jayme she is holding our for a girl.

Jason is doing well. At least he tells us he is. I continually remind him to work hard and obey the rules. He writes back and lectures me once in a while about if we're doing all the things we're suppose to be doing. That kind of lecture I don't mind. Keep up the good work son!

February is Here With a Bang!

2008-02-04T16:06:00.000-07:00

Jenna, Jordan and Jayme on a stormy day. School was canceled and waht better time to enjoy a little bit of snow and wind shovleing the walk way. Jenna is the one with goggles and Jordan is with the fur. Jayme is the frozen one to the left. Without any hands I might add. You can see Maggie in the back ground as she tries to do ther thing.

Jayme can't resist running through the snow. Still with out hands! Jordan and Jenna have taken up some warmth in the garage.

Yes, I had to try it too. But I'll tell you it took me longer to get ready to go out than I was out there. I thought I might use the four wheeler and plow but then again it was too cold even for me.

This was senoir night at the High school basketball game. It was alot of fun to walk out there with Jenna something again I never thought I would get to do with her. We are so proud of her. She sure is cute I think.

Jenna wanted a picture of the senior cheerleaders. She is right in the middle. Great group of girls. Very cute too. It has been a busy few weeks with Basketball games to go to. I thinkI'm done but Tammi may hit one more home game.

Now that I'm feeling better let the Holidays begin!

2008-01-22T11:06:00.000-07:00

WOW where did the holidays go? The last thing I remember was Halloween and then I woke up and its the end of January. I don't remember Thanksgiving and was too tired to remember Christmas and New years was a blurr....... The weeks are flying by so fast. Soon I'll be celebrating the seventh year of my transplant and my 48th Birthday. Wow never thought I 'd see the day. But must tell you all how special it is to be here to enjoy it all. Life is good!

Our family is busy as ever with ball games the girls have to cheer for and dance performances to go to. Needless to say I am staying home during most of it. Have attended one ball game to watch Jenna and will go next week to see Jordan cheer at one of her home games. Jayme has a mini cheer camp performance this week so will go to watch her. They hardly have enough time to eat let alone sleep. They are doing so well. I'm proud of them and how well they can keep up with their studies and all of these activities....oh Jayme will be starting Piano (I think I heard that somewhere) sometime soon.

Jason is doing awesome and loves his mission. Honduras can't be all bad if it looks like this WOW nice sunset Jason provided to us in his last email. Its hard to believe that he has under eight months to go before he comes home. Its our understanding that another convert was baptized over the weekend I guess Jason's companion has moved and he now has another one. He seems to think he'll be transferred next from his area. I think he may have one to two moves left before coming home.

Tammi starts a new job with Juvenile court today so she is nervous and still in the same building but with different people and office. We'll keep you up to date on her progress. As for me and miss maggie we kind of keep each other company through out the day. She lets me know when someone comes to the door and another animal has broken the security perimeter.... always on high alert she keeps things hopping around here.

Its hard to believe that January is almost gone and will soon be Feb. Time never stands still. We miss you all and I appreciate all your phone calls. Stay warm and away from the flu bug.

Freezing in Idaho

Is it 2008 yet? I've had enough of 2007!

2007-12-31T13:31:00.000-07:00

Just a quick update.....WOW where did 2007 go? I can't say that I enjoyed the last three months of 2007 very much but hey, I made it home for Christmas and got a chance to enjoy a little bit of the Holiday season. Thanks giving was a bust for me can't remember a thing and well lets jsut say "I'm so grateful to be home" .

With 2008 only hours away now I thought I would do a blog and make sure eveyone knows how HAPPY we are tha tJessica na d Bryan are going to have a BABY! July 16th is her due date. We are now anxiously engaged in open discussions regarding BOY or GIRL and already planning around Fireworks season. Jessica had to make things interesting to have a BABY right during fireworks.....WE don't care just as long as she has a good healthy one. We'll even send up a blast to celebrate the arrival.

Jenna will be graduating this new year and will be moving out to go to school, She claims she can't wait....we'll see about that once she's gone! And our lastest on Jason well I've included a picture for all to see.. he is going to need to get married soon after he gets home, someone needs to take care of this guy. Look at his shirt I don't think he knows how to do laundry very well. WOW it looks pretty hammered.

Everyone is doing great and looking forward to the new year. We have been so blessed, more so than our family deserves. We are so blessed to have such great family and friends to encourage and to offer support. Thank you all for your prayers and fasting on my behalf...as you can see it really works. And the Lord does answer our prayers.

God bless you all

the pollards

The Excitment of The Holidays is Here!!!! 11-5-07

2007-11-06T14:08:00.000-07:00

I think I had one of the best Fall seasons I can remember, at least for me it was one that I absorbed everything in and really appreciated the color that was available...nothing like in Maine but hey not bad either.

Can you feel it happening? I can its the month where something happens in your heart where you begin to feel gratitude for everything you have. Your reminded of the things that matter most to us. I love Thanksgiving I just wish I could eat more of it. This year I'm determined to eat a little cheese onion pie, and fruit salad. Perhaps a few bites of a cream pie too. This year has gone so fast for our family. With Jason on a mission, we seem to be writing all the time. The weeks just fly by here. And now the holidays are approaching and things have got to slow down so we can enjoy a quite night to decorate a tree. Which won't happen until after Thanskgiving.

I don't know about you, but I intend to enjoy these Holidays to their fullest. You know really get into the spirit of it all. They could be yor last you just never know. So from our house to yours we hope that you all have a great holiday season. Tell those you love just how much you love them and smile it'll all be over faster than you think.

Door to Door mini Bus Service for a Super FHE

2007-10-23T08:16:00.000-07:00

The Judd's came by and picked us all up in the mini-school bus that Kelly uses in her pre-school. It was alot of fun...my memory is that school buses seemed alot big than this one was back when I was going to school. Those huge seats didn't seem quite so huge any more. We had a wonderful time with everyone.
Here is Mr. Judd ...aka Karl the Bus Driver. He was great and really knows how to put people back in their seats when things get out of hand as one mom found out in a hurry. Thanks for the door to door service Karl! We all loved it!
Well you can tell who got the back of the bus.....And notice in the way back ..I mean the last seats on the right.....Yep! that would be Jenna and Jordan I guess the older you are the more rights to the very last seats. What is up with the back of the bus? I think its the bounce you get!
Our FHE Trip took us to Kasota where we found the funnest slide and corn maze. The kids and Parents had a blast. It was a wonderful memory to make on a fun FHE night. Hot chocolate and cinn. rolls were served after. What a blast. Even the big kids had a good time.....you know when they have a good time, everyone does! I was going to stay home but decided at the last minute, it was a memory I couldn't pass up.....I didn't go down the slide but I had a good time watching from the side lines. Thanks Karl and Kelly for making tonight a super FHE!

Saying goodbye to Mom, Dad and Debbie

2007-10-06T13:27:00.000-07:00

It has been great having everyone here and to see you all again. I'm so sorry for the rush and scare in which everyone got here but hey now I know how to get people to visit in a hurry....trust me it wasn't fun and I don't think I'll be doing that again. Or at least I hope not.
Seeing everyone was so fun. I sure wish we could do this when everyone is all together at once. Could you imagine the head rush that would be, wow!!!!! We almost did it three years ago remember when we met at Connie's for Christmas.
Mom & Dad, thank you so much for getting here when you did and Dad for the wonderful fathers blessing. Mom the soup was a hit and wished you could drop in and cook for me. We loved having you all here and hope you all get home safe. You truly are a blessing in you're lives and to see you all here was wonderful. I'm sure glad it wasn't for a funeral.

2007-10-05T13:27:00.000-07:00

Well I can't tell you how good it was to see Chuck and Teresa and to visit after what has been I think 3 years this December. Thank you so much for coming, Chuck and Teresa! I wish we lived closer so we could do more together.
On top of everything else that was going on the past week, we managed to get Jenna through Homecoming week. Thank heavens for a wonderful daughter who was willing to borrow a dress and make some alterations. Personally, I think she is pretty cute.
Hey, Dad! So good to have you here. With mom's cooking I could put on 10 pounds in a month. Wish you could stay longer. Love you!

This morning we woke up to (believe it or not) SNOW! If you look close on my cover to my grill you can see the snow starting to form. It is cold today and the fall colors have been more prevelant. I so much love the fall season!

Goodbye picture with Connie early in the morning

2007-09-22T10:16:00.000-07:00

I certainly don't look that good but hey what can you expect from a guy thats been through what I've been through. Connie looks good and Jayme a little tired but its early. I had a great visit with you Connie and I'm so grateful that I was here to see you. I Love you!

2007-09-22T09:35:00.000-07:00

Brenda and Jean and I were visiting after they learned of my not feeling well came up for a visit and to see mom and dad from florida they are from Pocatello, great to have them here and they brought a great watermellon. My brother Chuck and his wife Teresa came from New York and of course my mom and dad were there as well. What a great night it was. It's sure a blessing to have family!

Brothers visiting

2007-09-22T09:29:00.000-07:00

It was wonderful seeing my Uncle Theron and my Dad together....something that happens so rarely. They have a good time visiting I think . Seeing these brothers together is a real gift to me. Thanks Theron, Jean and Brenda for coming up to see us. It was so fun having you here. And the watermellon, wow! Loved it!

The Last Burn Pile

2007-09-22T07:11:00.000-07:00

For the past several months we have been waiting for the county to lift the no burn policy and this was the last of the branches we cut ...if you look back to a past post yoouwill see the big truck we had come in to haul off an even bigger pile. Thanks to my brother-in-law Matt...the job was done well. Thanks Matt I really appreciated it. You don't know how much better I felt seeing that burn.

THE SPRINKLER SYSTEM IS IN ..WHAT A BLESSING !!

2007-08-29T19:28:00.000-07:00

Over twenty men came to help install our sprinklers, 5 tractors, rototillers and rakes were out in full force. I can't begin to tell you how much of a weigh this has been lifted off of my shoulders. I can't believe its done. Grass in just afew more days will be seeded after we fine tune some things. What a blessing !

2007-08-29T19:25:00.000-07:00

Tammi and Jenny our good friend next door grilled some hamburgers and hotdogs and we fed the entire crew for lunch I think there was close to 28 people when I last counted.

2007-08-29T19:23:00.000-07:00

Twenty four men from the ward came out to help. It was some impressive and even the dog here watched to make sure things were going well.

2007-08-29T19:17:00.000-07:00

On Friday night we had several men here to work on pulling the underground pipe. A total of 2300 feet of pipe was pulled to the correct locations with in 1 hour and 15 minutes. thanks to my good friend Scott with his huge pulling machine. Before he arrived no one thought we would get it done within the evening for the next crew coming in on saturday to install the heads. Scott proved everyone wrong and had it done.........it actually was what I thought the most exciting part of the entire process...everyone was impressed. We had two men pulling pipe and two men marking where the heads were to be installed via a map with had of the property and two men drilling holes where each head was to be. Thanks to these men we never could of had it ready for our Saturday crew.

2007-08-29T19:14:00.000-07:00

This trailer served as our supply post. People worked here putting together valves and connecting pipe and flex pipe for the sprinklers.

2007-08-29T19:11:00.000-07:00

Installing the turn off valve by the well for the entire sprinkler system. Jim C. And Tony M. working in the heat.

Scouts came to Spray Weeds

2007-08-13T12:14:00.001-07:00

Here the scouts and leaders are filling tanks of chemical to kill weeds. This is the first phase of Operation "lawn". Even the dog got into the act!

Second phase of "Operation Lawn"

2007-08-13T11:57:00.000-07:00

Thanks to the coordination of good friends of the Burley First Ward and the use of Kloepher's big semi-truck. Master driver Blair Bowers came rolling into my back yard with a 18 wheeler, with determination to haul off a debry pile from earlier in the year to begin the second phase of "Operation Lawn" Thanks Kloephers for the semi. And to all that helped out. Its amazing what you have to do after the county has implemented a "no burn " policy due to the dry conditions here in Idaho. WOW!!

2007-08-13T11:55:00.000-07:00

Compacting tree branches to be loaded. Talk about team work and precision.

2007-08-13T11:53:00.000-07:00

Just a sampling of Blair's handy work with a back hoe! Is there anything this guy can't drive?

2007-08-13T11:51:00.000-07:00

Thanks to some great friends and my brother Tony work removing this pile was no problem at all.

2007-08-13T11:41:00.000-07:00

Please Don't try this at home! If you look closely you can see the brave look on Mike Haynie's face as he trys to man handle a chain saw and hold on 12 feet in the air on the edge of a back hoe bucket....Blair Bowers is so confident in his abilty to drive with a guy that high on the edge of a bucket with a chain saw in his hand that even he, can do it with his elbow, while talking on the cell phone at the same time. This is what farmers call multi-tasking! Not a tough thing for a Idaho farmer to handle. My bet was that Blair was checking on a old friend somewhere, talking about good old days. Mike on the other hand was so busy looking to cut down any hanging branches that fear never was a real issue for this seasoned lumber jack.

The Puppies are coming to Life:

2007-08-06T19:41:00.000-07:00

This little gal seems to like to tell everyone waht she thinks and really she does rule the roost.
They are coming to life so much adn its beginning to get to be alot of work because they take up so much attention. Don't worry though my kids really have enjoyed them. And you would never be able to tell as much as they hold them any ways!!!!

2007-08-06T19:40:00.000-07:00

YOu couldn't ask for a cuter picture of loving each other!

2007-08-06T19:38:00.000-07:00

These guys are having a lot of fun fighting with each other. While the Mom's away the kids will play. These guys are having just to much fun chewing on each other.