Forgotten Five

Chelsi's 1st VB Tournament of 2012

2012-01-10T15:33:00.000-08:00

This was a tough day. Chelsi went to bed early, got up and got ready for a long day, ate a healthy breakfast (thank you Mark), we left on time and were in Beaverton, Oregon by 7:30 am (just like we we were told to) and then she got the bad news. We hardly had time to get seated. Her age waiver paperwork had not been completed on time, so she was not eligible to play (mind you it was give to her on Thursday before the tournament with instrustions to sign and fax. We tried numerous times to fax it and the machine just rang and rang and didn't pick up. We made many calls to her coach with no response, so we brought it with us, thinking she could play). Talk about the tears...both her and I. She was SO excited and then boom! You think this would have been handled the day she made the team the first weekend in November. Someone dropped the ball, and Chelsi was the one who got punished. No fair in my book.

After trying to reason with her (when there was nothing really within reason) and drying the tears, she was a good sport. Another girl on the team wasn't processed either, so they stood by the bench and did cheers and really tried to make the best of it. We were proud, but pissed.

The girls were all out of sorts, looking like the circus clowns had come to play instead. Missing 2 key players...middle blockers...of their ten players, was NOT a good thing. They girls had to step in and play positions they were not familiar with, and they were so confused and it showed. It was painful to watch. They went from the 13th seed, down to 28th. They are in a better position (with teams more their level), but have a long ways to go to get even close to where they started. I'm not sure it will happen, but at least they seem to be having fun together.

That's what's important...right?

You can see her disappoiuntment, but she tried to keep it all under control. She couldn't warm up with her team or anything, so it was a pretty tough day.

Watercolor with Lakai

2012-01-04T13:05:00.000-08:00

Lakai and I spent some time this morning doing some watercolor painting.

The pictures speak for themselves.

He loves creating art work for his mom and dad.

Nana and Papa get an occasional piece of work too. Maybe I can talk him out of this one.

Lakai's tray of many colors.

Working very hard on his creation.

The Masterpiece of January 4, 2012.

Christmas in Arizona

2011-12-31T12:37:00.000-08:00

This year for Christmas we headed to Arizona to spend time with Mark's parents. They usually head there after the holidays are over, but went early this year. This gave us a great opportunity to head to the sunshine (I, for one, really need some vitamin D. The NW is beautiful and green, but gray and cloudy days are the price you have to pay. Still trying to convince myself that it's worth it). We had a great visit and even got to see Mark's Aunt Suzanne. We haven't seen her is close to 20 years....man we are old.

On the bus to pick up the rental car. Jarim slept almost the whole way there and was still tired, go figure.

We had to stop and In-N-Out for lunch one day. No one except for me had ever eaten their It's kind of a "must do," when you are somewhere where they have one. We also ate at Joe's Farm Cafe, a farm fresh cafe that we have seen on Drive-Ins, Diners and Dives.

We also spent some time at the Superstition Mountain Museum. I don't think the kids were super excited to go, but really enjoyed learning about the old gold miner days.

Below are some of my favorite pictures.

Too bad I couldn't keep them there for awhile to help them to appreciate me more.

All my kiddo's on the gallows. Love the picture, not the location.

I rarely get Jarim to pose for a picture, so really cherish this one. I LOVE it!

Thought this was a cute little wedding church, but it was part of an old Elvis movie. It was filled with Elvis memorabilia....not so interest in that.

There is some beauty in flat ol' Arizona.

Mark and I with his parents.

Tony and Sharon with the kids. I'm sure they were tired of all the pictures, but they accommodated me.

When we got back to the hotel, we watch a hot air balloon launch. It was awesome. Non of us had ever watch the process and it takes a lot of time patience and people.

Jarim, Pap and Lakai on their balloon watching perch.I'm not sure where Chelsi went probably in to get ready to go swimming, something we hardly got to do this year.

Jarim doing his "super model" pose. He also sat on the side of the road singing and dancing. What a dork, but he's my our dork.

This was the highlight of Mark's trip. He'd never been and I must admit, although I was NOT excited to go, it was pretty cool. The taxidermy and the wildlife scenes were incredible.

Papa and Lakai at the shooting gallery. They were both very into it and Lakai did a great job. Mark is too excited for Lakai to be old enough to be his hunting partner. I think Lakai is excited too.

Lakai telling Granny about all the fish and things he was seeing at the pond area.

Chelsi was really good with Lakai in the swimming pool and hot tub. She'll hate this picture, but we sure appreciated her playing with Lakai, so we could read and eat cookies.

Yes, I said eat cookies. There were fresh, out-of-the-oven, chocolate chip cookies for the taking.

YUMMY!

We hated to leave the sun, but needed a few days to recover from all the holiday festivities. Back to reality.

First Blazer Game of the Season...Finally

2011-12-27T12:52:00.000-08:00

With the NBA on strike, we never thought this day would come, but it finally did. We got to go to the first game of the season as a family the day after Christmas. Since we only have 4 tickets, this is a rare occasion, but one that we all look forward too. The Blazers started the season off with a bang and stomped on Philadelphia. Go Blazers!

Tristin, Ryan and Lakai. I think Lakai is tired and pictured out. He always frowns now when he knows his picture is getting taken.

Jarim and Chelsi enjoying the game. Chelsi maybe not so much...lol...or maybe she's just embarrassed.

Mark and I enjoying each other and the game. Glad we can do two things at once.

The Simple White Envelope (Author Unknown)

2011-12-25T09:57:00.000-08:00

     It's just a small white envelope stuck among the branches of our Christmas tree. No name, no identification, no inscription. It has peeked through the branches of our tree for the past 10 years or so. It all began because my husband Mike hated Christmas -- oh, not the true meaning of Christmas, but the commercial aspects of it -- the overspending,the frantic running around at the last minute to get a tie for Uncle Harry and the dusting powder for Grandma -- the gifts given in desperation because you couldn't think of anything else. Knowing he felt this way, I decided one year to bypass the usual shirts, sweaters, ties, and so forth. I reached for something special just for Mike.
     The inspiration came in an unusual way. Our son Kevin, who was 12 that year, was wrestling at the junior level at the school he attended. Shortly before Christmas, there was a non-league match against a team sponsored by an inner-city church. These youngsters, dressed in sneakers so ragged that shoestrings seemed to be the only thing holding them together, presented a sharp contrast to our boys in their spiffy blue and gold uniforms and sparkling new wrestling shoes. As the match began, I was alarmed to see that the other team was wrestling without headgear, a kind of light helmet designed to protect a wrestler's ears. It was a luxury the ragtag team obviously could not afford. Well, we ended up walloping them. We took every weight class. And as each of their boys got up from the mat, he swaggered around in his tatters with false bravado, a kind of street pride that couldn't acknowledge defeat.
     Mike, seated beside me, shook his head sadly, "I wish just one of them could have won," he said. "They have a lot of potential, but losing like this could take the heart right out of them." Mike loved kids -- all kids -- and he knew them, having coached little league football, baseball, and lacrosse. That's when the idea for his present came. That afternoon, I went to a local sporting goods store and bought an assortment of wrestling headgear and shoes and sent them anonymously to the inner-city church. On Christmas Eve, I placed the envelope on the tree, the note inside telling Mike what I had done and that this was his gift from me. His smile was the brightest thing about Christmas that year and in succeeding years.
     For each Christmas, I followed the tradition -- one year sending a group of mentally handicapped youngsters to a hockey game, another year a check to a pair of elderly brothers whose home had burned to the ground the week before Christmas, and on and on. The envelope became the highlight of our Christmas. It was always the last thing opened on Christmas morning, and our children, ignoring their new toys, would stand with wide-eyed anticipation as their dad lifted the envelope from the tree to reveal its contents. As the children grew, the toys gave way to more practical presents, but the envelope never lost its allure. The story doesn't end there.
     You see, we lost Mike last year due to cancer. When Christmas rolled around, I was still so wrapped in grief that I barely got the tree up. But Christmas Eve found me placing an envelope on the tree, and in the morning it was joined by three more. Each of our children, unbeknownst to the others, had placed an envelope on the tree for their dad.
     The tradition has grown and someday will expand even further with our grandchildren standing around the tree with wide-eyed anticipation watching as their fathers take down the envelope.
     Mike's spirit, like the Christmas spirit, will always be with us. May we all remember Christ, who is the reason for the season, and the true Christmas spirit this year and always.

Christmas in Spokane

2011-12-24T09:51:00.000-08:00

Every year we get the opportunity to drive to Spokane to visit my family for the Holidays, which is a highlight. I don't enjoy the drive, but I do miss them and can't get there fast enough. All my brothers and sisters and their families, along with my parents where there...it's a house full.

Santa showed up and visited with all the boys and girls. He also encouraged them to be good to everyone and to remember the true meaning of CHRISTmas. Jarim and Lakai were the only ones from our family willing to sit on Santa's lap. Jarim cracked me up and Lakai was so scared, but he finally did it (thank you Stryker for being "The Man" and helping Lakai through his fear).

Next we opened presents. We only get simple gifts for kids under 18, everyone else participates in the Simple White Envelope.

Mom enjoying watching the kiddos open their presents.

She looks way too relaxed in all the chaos.

Great Grand Papa showing Lakai how to use a yo-yo....priceless...while Great Grandma Terri observes to be sure the lesson is going as planned.

Then my favorite time of the night, The Simple White Envelope. Each year someone is in charge of this family tradition. It started 5 years ago, with the oldest of the family (my dad) and has gone down the line. This year, Kristin and her family were in charge. They did a wonderful job. They really kept the true meaning of Christmas a priority in their presentation, that started with a silent Christmas lesson, titled "Come Let Us Adore Him." The presentation was filled with scriptures, hymns and words to encourage thoughts and feeling the spirit.

Then the Simple White Envelope was presented.

The Burgess family concentrated on giving service to people and organizations that were dear to their hearts and the hearts of others in the family. They focused on the less fortunate, those who couldn't help themselves. We are very fortunate to be in a family who values the principals of giving and service. This is a concept we LOVE to share with others, hoping they too will start this tradition in their families, and get back to the real meaning of Christmas and make the commercial aspect less of a focus.

Our family was able to help 16 children, 4 mothers and 1 father with gifts. We were also able to help many others that we will never know of through volunteering with local organizations(ie.Clothing Perk, Inland NW Baby, Anna Ogden Hall and Sacred Heart NICU).

All together we gave 140+ hours of service.

The Burgess family also noticed other service given by our family.

Some sponsored families on their own

Helped fixing cars

Watching kids

Shopping for gifts for others

Service in schools

Inviting others over for dinner

Volunteering in church callings

Paying for someone in line behind them

Helping with house projects

Cleaning someone else's dishes

Free haircuts to the missionaries

Offing their home for BIG family events

Traveling to be with family

Standing in line on Black Friday to save $440 to buy material for receiving blankets

Clint, Kristin, Valencia, Vincient and Vaya challenged us to continue to give service throughout the year. I am definately taking on this challenge.

Jarim and Tony using their imagination and creativeness, playing with the baby toys.

Me and my brothers and sisters (Kristin, Tony, Becca, Me, Ben and Garianne). I love it when we all get together.

Mi Familia

2011-12-21T10:22:00.000-08:00

I'm getting ready to drive with my family to Spokane for Christmas, and I have been doing some reflection about family. All my siblings have beautiful families, and I am so proud of each any every one of them and the generations they are raising on this earth.

I am the oldest (and shortest) child of six, and the only one who has moved away from Spokane (everyone else lives within about five miles from one another). Needless to say, I don't see them often enough and I miss them terribly.
Here is my tribute to my family and their families (pictures by Kristin Burgess, my creative, talented photographer sister).

This is my youngest sister, Rebecca's (27) family. She married Steve on July 26, 2008 and they have two children, Stryker (2/25/2009) and Makiya (7/14/2011). Becca and Steve are both finishing up their schooling, which is a feat with kids. I am so proud of them both.

This is my youngest brother, Tony (30) and his daughter Samara (1/26/2011). Tony is a fabulous single father. I am so proud of the person he has decided to become.

This is my other brother Benjamin (33) and his family. Ben and Lucy were married on August 23, 2003. They have three kids, from left to right, Kodi (3/4/2004), Jayla (9/2/2010) and Tyler (2/9/1998). Ben is hard working and a great father and husband. We keep trying to get him to move here, but have not tempted him enough yet I guess, as he is still in Spokane and his roots are getting deeper.

This is Kristin (35) and her husband Clint. They were married on April 11, 1998. They have three children, Vincient, or Vinnie as we call him (10/11/2003), Vaya (7/7/2010) and Valencia (2/24/2000). Kristin is a talented photographer, who is very generous with her services. She is also creative and artistic in many crafty ways, and involved in her children's classrooms all with a little one still at home.

Garianne (45) and Dewey have been married since 1/1/1990, almost as long as Mark and I. They have six, yes I said six children. From left to right: Brenee (7/26/1990) and Scott were married this year on April 23, Spencer (3/13/1997), Skylor (3/10/1992) Benton (5/23/2002), Alisabeth (2/1/1994) and Amia (12/14/1999). Garianne is busy......enough said!

This is my mom and my neice, Samara. Mom is retired now and having fun doing just as much or as little as she wants to. We'd love to see her more, but cherish each moment we do get to spend together.

My dad and his wife Terry have been married since September 21, 1995. They enjoy the outdoors, camping and bike riding together with friends and family.

We are all busy with our families, but still find time (not often enough) to connect with each other and catch up. There are not enough hours in the day or days in the year, but I LOVE the time, like the holidays, that we get to laugh and spend time together....all of us.

Chelsi's New Do

2011-12-19T15:05:00.000-08:00

Chelsi has been asking since last year's volleyball season to get the tips of her hair dyed purple. Since there was only one game left in the season, I had to strike a deal. I told her that if she made the team this year, I would take her to get it done. Wel...since she made the phone call to most of you, you know she made the top team at CCJV Volleyball Club at her age level. She has been working really hard at practices and absolutely loves her team and coach.

Today was the day for purple tips.

I think it turned out really cute and hope she keeps it curled everyday.

Easy Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

2011-11-23T18:22:00.001-08:00

I'm not feeling well, so I decided making cookies with Lakai might be the cure. These were really easy (saw them on a blog I follow). As you can see they have been put together and taste tested by Lakai, including constant stealing of the chips.

1 Box Spice Cake Mix (do NOT add eggs, oil or water)

15 oz. Can of Pumpkin

Chocolate Chips to Taste (we used the mini ones)

Mix all ingredients together, drop onto cookie sheet and bake at 350 degrees for 15 minutes.

Check with tooth pick like you would a cake.

DELICIOUS!

By the way...they did not make me feel better, but they made those around me happy and the house smell fabulous.

Hand Turkeys with Lakai

2011-11-23T17:04:00.001-08:00

I definately didn't feel like cleaning today (or anything else for that matter), so it was a day about Lakai (more than ususal). We read books, played games, watched educational TV, and then I wanted to get creative. I thought about what we could do, to make the day special and decided to Hand Turkeys for his mom and dad. He was happy to do the painting, but pictures were rough....I guess we've take too many and he gets all non-obedient when the camera comes out.

This is Lakai waiting patiently for me to get out all the goodies to make our turkeys.

We painted his hand, not an easy task, and put it on a paper in a half circle. He loved the feel of the paint and did much playing around and little cooperating! Five colors, washing our hands between each of them, took us a while, but we had an great time together. Lakai even helped me clean out the brush.

After the paint dried, while he took his nap....great planning on my part, Lakai glues the parts and put them on. I drew little X's and he put the part on the X. He did a great job! I was truly impressed.

This is the finished project. he was soooo proud, grinning from ear to ear, but would not let me take a picture of him with his masterpiece....oh well.

CCJV Select U14 Black

2011-11-06T18:00:00.000-08:00

Chelsi has been spending a lot of time and energy developing her volleyball skills this past year. She played on a select team last year, but missed the try-outs, so she was placed on a very young team (mostly 10 year olds). The coach was fabulous (really worked on fundamentals) and she got a ton of playing time....basically she was the "Rock Star" of the team. Her height was a definate advantage.

Last year's team. CCJV U12 Purple (Above).

On Nov. 6, Chelsi went to try-outs for Clark County Junior Volleyball. The competition was stiff and the try-out was long. She did a great job, but after watching for 4 hours, I knew she'd make a team, but possibly the lower level team. Well... she made the top level team! You should have seen her face. I had to hold back tears of joy for her. Her grin was from ear to ear and she couldn't wait to call everyone.

We are very proud of Chelsi and look forward to a busy, travel filled season.

I'm sure more picture will follow, once she gets her uniform and starts to play.

2012 Tournament Schedule

*** possible changes and/or additions to tournament list. Some locations are still TBA.
January 8th/ Power League Qualifier
January / Friendship Tournament
February 5th/ Power League
February 18-20 / Wilson Invitational @ OSU
March 3rd/ Power League
March 23-25 / Pacific NW Qualifier @ Spokane Convention Center
April 1st/ Power League
April / Regionals*

May 26-28 /- Emerald City Classic @ U of W

Gone On A Bear Hunt

2011-04-26T16:05:00.000-07:00

Mark was fortunate enough to go on a week long bear hunt in Alaksa this year. This has been one of his bucket list items and now he can check it off. He has some interesting and scarry stories he'd love to share with you....just ask.

I for one am glad he is home safe and sound (although I did make sure his life insurance was current) and look forward to the bear skin rug for the office wall. It's the only dead thing I have allowed to be put in the house. Isn't that what garages, shops and work offices are for?

Mark and his beautiful 9 ft tall grizzly bear, I have lovingly named Yogi.

Mark and Bruce, his guide. They have become really good friends and I'm sure will have many a hunting adventure in the future together.

Mark's buddy, Randy, and his Black Bear, Boo Boo. Randy is Mark's BFF and hunting partner. We like to call them "Mandy" because they are pretty much connected at the hip, or cell phone.

Scott & Brenee's Wedding

2011-04-23T09:30:00.000-07:00

We were blessed to be able to go to Spokane for my neice's wedding. mark was unable to attend, but the kids and I had a great time. Brenee was absolutely beautiful and Scotty was smitten. They are so in love and it shows.

My very talented sister, Kristin, took their pictures. She has a gift and knows how to use it.

Jarim, Me, Tristin and Chelsi waiting outside the temple for Scott and Brenee to come out after the ceremony. It was a beautiful sunny day, but a little bit windy.

Mr. & Mrs. Williams.

Our picture with the newlyweds.

Setting up for the reception. It was simply beautiful. Colors were white, black, hot pink and yellow. Pictures that Kristin took hung around the whole room. There was a candy bar for guests, Italian sodas and Hawaiian haystacks (favorites of the bride and groom).

Sampling of they important people in my life.

Too bad I didn't get some with my mom and siblings.
(Top: Tristin, Middle: Jarim and Bottom: my dad)

Weddings bring back memories of when Mark and I first got married and this one made me do some thinking. After being married for almost 24 years, we've gotten too comfortable with one another and we take each other for granted. It seems like we just don't look at eachother the same as on our wedding day. It's time for that to change. I know I need to look a Mark and remember what made me love him in the beginning and hold on to that feeling always.

I love you baby, and thanks to Scott and Brenee for helping me to remember that.

Christenson Reception Area Make-Over

2011-03-01T09:26:00.000-08:00

Mark wanted to add some color and excitement to his reception area, so I told him I was the woman for the job. We went with a granite look in grey, and I think it turned out awesome. It was a messy job and the pay was crap, but the compliments of the employees and my proud hubby were well worth the effort.

This is the main wall of the reception area.

This is the work in progress (first coat of three). It was a gritty job.

After done (main wall).

After (behind the reception desk). We added a plant to the right of the desk and we also put a television on the wall behind the desk, where pictures of job and community events run on a loop. It's pretty cool.

I don;t go the the office often, but LOVE to go in and see my work. I'm pretty proud of myself....toot, toot!

Napkin Man

2010-04-07T13:55:00.001-07:00

My son is nuts! I must admit, he does look better this way....haha!

I LOVE Dogs and They LOVE Me

2010-04-07T13:11:00.000-07:00

These pictures say it all. Lakai loves dogs and they love him.

He was at my girlfriend's home and she put him down for a nap. The dogs layed right next to him and protected him while he slept.
Playing with Riley. Not sure Riley loved it, but he layed there like a good dog just taking all Lakai had to dish out.

Napping with Snickers.

Imagine

2010-04-07T13:10:00.000-07:00

Love Life

2010-04-07T13:09:00.000-07:00

Playing with a Stick

2010-04-07T09:49:00.001-07:00

Today was beautiful! The sun was out, there was a gentle breeze and the trees were in bloom. This is the time of year that I LOVE.

Tristin took Lakai outside to play and he discovered a stick. It kept him occupied for quite some time, just looking, touching and smiling, so Tristin and I just took pictures of him.I'm glad I captured the picture of Tristin and Lakai together. Soooo cute.

Tolo

2010-03-12T13:42:00.000-08:00

Jarim and Amber went to Tolo. This is the picture I have. The ones that the kids took were so small you couldn't see them, and when I tried to make they bigger, they were blurry. I'm just not photoshop savvy. Just use your imagination and pretend they are wearing neon. They looked crazy and had a lot of fun.

I LOVE Pudding

2010-03-11T10:56:00.000-08:00

Nanna Grams was making some pudding cups and Lakai got to lick the spoon.

Need I say more?

Jarim and Amber

2010-03-07T11:01:00.000-08:00

Jarim has a girlfriend, Amber. We enjoy her and they seem to enjoy eachother. They have been friends since his freshman year....he is a patient guy. We rarely see him anymore, and that kind-of bums me out. I HATE that there is another woman in his life....lol.

Pleasant Valley Family Carnival

2010-03-06T09:57:00.000-08:00

Every year Pleasant Valley has a family carnival, coplete with games, activities, food, dunk tank, clowns, face painting, etc. You name it, we probably have it. It's a great time for everyone and the turn out was wonderful. The weather had been horrible, but He was watching out for us, as the weather was beautiful only on this day.

My friend and co-president Melinda and I.

Chelsi playing the football throw. It was so funny. Two people were strapped together and had to pick up footballs and throw them in the goal. It cracked me up watching them fight against eachother. Her height gave her an advantage...lol. This was one of the only pictures I got of her. She just ran around like a crazy person with her friends, playing games and eating. Since I was busy hosting, it was hard for us to connect. I'm glad she had fun.

Lakai loved bouncing on the blow up games. I chaperoned the obstacle course, so he played on the outside of it with Tristin.

Tristin took Lakai around to the carnival games that she thought he could play. He had a fun time at the duck pond and loved picking out prizes.

Our little surfer boy!

Grandpa and Lakai with cotton candy coma. This picture makes me laugh.

Lakai's first experience with cotton candy. At first he wanted nothing to do with it. Then when he got a taste of the sugary goodness, he just dove in. He couldn't get enough, hence the cotton candy coma picture above. It was a great family day!

Pots & Pans

2010-02-26T11:04:00.000-08:00

Walked into the kitchen and what did I see....

Mary Poppins & The Pacific NW

2010-02-25T13:56:00.000-08:00

As you know it's rains and rains here in Vancouver, Washington. I LOVE this picture as it represents how I feel so well. NEVER go out without an umbrella! The trade off for all the rain, is being surrounded by green, fresh smells and colorful flowers.

I guess I can deal with that!

Too Cute

2010-02-24T11:06:00.000-08:00

I LOVE this picture. It cracks me up. Lakai enjoys looking out the back door window and teasing the dogs. He spends many minutes of the day there, with a smile on his face, banging on the window. The dogs will just sit there and look at him like "Please let us in. We need to lick you."

Alien

2010-02-23T11:24:00.000-08:00

Chelsi had a project at school where she had to come up with an alien. She had to write a story and then make the creature. This is what she came up with. I think he's pretty cute. I'd invite him to stay for a while.

My Bronco Rider

2010-02-20T13:30:00.000-08:00

Mark and I drove to Elma (yes, it's a small and boring as it sounds) to check out a RV park. We stopped at a restaurant on the way home and this is how Mark spent his time.

Get along little doggie!

SMILE!

Lakai - You Can't Help But Smile

2010-02-18T11:26:00.000-08:00

This little man cracks me up! He picked up my cell phone and just put it to his ear. It's amazing how he ke=new just what to do. Made me chuckle.

I just love looking at this little face. He always makes you smile....you can't help it.

Look at all thos toofies...10 so far.

Family Bingo Night

2010-02-18T11:20:00.000-08:00

PTA hosted a VERY successful Family Bingo Night. It was much larger than we anticipated. We were pulling additional tables and chairs all night long. Can't wait to do it again next year.

Melinda and I pulling and posting BINGO numbers. Kids really enjoyed the candy bar prizes.

We had a packed house in the gym.

My girl Stephanie selling cards and playing...both at the same time.Tristin and Lakai, just about ready for bed. Chelsi disappeared, so I have no picture of her and her friends....bummer.

It's Beginning to Look Like Spring

2010-02-18T11:17:00.001-08:00

This was kind-of a fun self portrait I took on the first day of spring.

I Soooo Need to Dust

2010-02-18T11:17:00.000-08:00

How embarassing, but too cute at the same time.

I was cleaning the living room and found this little handprint left in th dust.

A Day at the Park

2010-02-18T09:43:00.000-08:00

Tristin took Lakai to the park on one of our few nice days so far this year. These are some of the cute shots she got. The wind was blowing pretty hard, so it made for some crazy baby hair.

Valentines Day

2010-02-14T10:10:00.000-08:00

Valentine's Day brings flowers to our house. I so look forward to seeing what Mark brings home for me. I know they die, but I so appreciate the smell and beauty they bring to our home, if even for only a week.

Tristin also got flowers from Lakai, but I know... flowers or not, HE is her favorite Valentine.

Sweetheart Ball

2010-02-13T11:09:00.000-08:00

Sometimes it's so hard to get Mark to be serious. We had a great night with dinner, dancing and friends. Mark looked maavalous and I felt pretty stunning too. I so look forward to Valentines Day and the Sweetheart Ball every year. It's one time I get to dress up.

Finally, after about 15 pictures, Mark finally gets serious.

I L.O.V.E. this man!

Church Basketball

2010-01-23T11:13:00.000-08:00

Chelsi played basketball for our church this year. They really appreciated her height I think. She always gave it her all and enjoyed playing with the other girls. She wouod get upset if we were even 1 minute late.

They were undefeated.

Love My New Big Boy Car Seat & Driving Friend

2010-01-22T13:40:00.000-08:00

Lakai loves his big boy carseat. He enjoys looking out the window and seeing the world. He also likes his new driving pal, Gator. Seeing to world took so much out of him that he fell asleep.

Battle Ground School District 100 Year Celebration

2010-01-09T10:51:00.000-08:00

As PTA Presidents, we get asked to do a lot. This year we were asked to go to a meeting about it being the district's 100th year and the celebration they were planning. Little did we know that we would be part of the planning committee and only had 2 months to get it done. We were responsible for creating a display that represented our school. Since neither Melinda or I grew up here, we had a huge job ahead of us. We had to do a lot of research about the history and search through hundreds of pictures and books to timeline the Pleasant Valley history.

I must say I think we pulled it off and made our school proud. It was the largest display (a timecapsule theme) and the other schools were jealous. We put in many hours, but it was well worth it.

Our motto was: Go BIG or Go Home!

We did it and even made the local paper with our display.

Melinda (my co-president), Missy (our primary school principal) and me.

So glad this project is complete.

Future Trailblazer

2010-01-08T12:22:00.000-08:00

We got this little outfit for Lakai when he was first born. He finally fits it.

Helping Grandpa

2010-01-06T13:31:00.000-08:00

Grandma and Lakai went to visit grandpa at work. Lakai thought that grandpa needed some help. I not sure he really did, but he was a good sport.

Tristin Buys Her First House

2009-12-01T12:52:00.000-08:00

We are really proud of Tristin. She is a great mom, a hard worker and a wonderful college student. She works very hard at everything she does and has such a great attitude. She was able to buy her first home this December. What a great accomplishment.

Our realor-Laura, our mortgage broker-Keri and Tristin.

We had to pry the downpayment out of her hands....lol.

Signing the papers and making it final.

Laura met us at the house to pass the key.

Tristin and Lakai going into their home for the first time...as owners.

Some of Lakai's Favorite Things

2009-12-01T12:32:00.000-08:00

Reading with mommy, playing and eating are some of Lakai's favorite things. He will sit for a pretty long time looking at books and reading with anyone who will take the time to read to him.

I came out from the bathroom and this is where I found Lakai. He just started crawling and was high centered in his car seat. It was pretty funny. He tought he was pretty smart.
Lakai LOVES to eat. If he sees someone with food, he will beg for it, even if he just ate. He's still working on the staying clean thing, but he has some time to learn. We are still working with Chelsi on that task.

Chelsi's First Flute Recital

2009-11-16T10:17:00.000-08:00

Chelsi started playing the flute in 5th grade. She is really loving it and is actually pretty good. She practices almost daily and takes private lessons. She was very nervous for this recital, talked about it daily, but she did a wonderful job. She did better that a lot of the students who have played longer. I don't think she made one mistake. I was sooo proud of her.

This is Chelsi and Allison Wilkenson, her flute teacher.

These are some of the girls who take lessons from Ally and also go to school with her.

(Julianna, Marissa, Chelsi and Audree)
I tried to download the video, but after it loading for 15 minutes and still not being done, I gave up, as it was tying up my computer and I had other stuff to do. If anyone has any hints, please let me know and I'll try again.

CK Scrapbooking Convention

2009-11-08T10:14:00.000-08:00

For our birthdays this year Tristin and I went to the CK Convention. I bought it for Tristin and Mark bought it for me. It was so nice sharing this time with my oldest daughter and I think it was a nice break from being a new mom. We went to classes together and created some great projects. We also toured the trade show and saw so many ideas and new products. Scrapbooking has come a long way since I started. I have so much more to do.....I must start soon.

Blazer/Spurs with Friendzies

2009-11-07T10:54:00.000-08:00

Mark gave me tickets to the game so I could take my girlfriends. He didn't sacrafice too much as he was in a suite. We did have a driver for the night.

Tristin and Lakai at Greenbluff

2009-10-27T09:39:00.000-07:00

Kristin took some picture of Tristin and Lakai at Greenbluff. Tristin wanted to get his 6 months pictures done there and they were wonderful. Kristin has such a talent and we are lucky to be able to benefit from it.

October In Spokane

2009-10-26T09:32:00.000-07:00

Went to visit family in Spokane and we spent the day at Greenbluff. There was fresh apple cider, crafts, homemade goodies, pumpkin patch, face painting, and more. All the older kids got thier faces painted and the babies just took it all in. It was the first time I got to meet Stryker, me new nephew, and we had so much fun visiting and seein people we haven't seen in years.

I know I ssaw more pictures, but I have no idea where. We took some with my mom and in the pumpkin patch and more family.....but they are lost.....sorry. If I find them I will add them.

Benton, Amia, Valencia and Vincent showing off their painted faces.

Rebecca, Stryker(in his new spiderman beanie) and Steve.

Lakai in the pumpkin cut out. He thought this was FUN!

Kristin, Valencia, Vincent and Clint taking a family photo.

Inspiration

2009-10-21T11:31:00.000-07:00

Today I pulled these off my sister Kristin's blog.

She makes me want to be a better person.

She love me unconditionally, no question about it, and has such a good heart.

She is a wonderful example to me.

She is an inspiration.

Love you Krissy!

Blazer Beat the Lakers....Again!

2009-10-11T11:30:00.000-07:00

Mark and I are true blue Blazer Fans, although I think I'm a bigger fan than he is. I'm sure he'd beg to differ. I especially LOVE it when they play the Lakers (I really dislike Kobi Bryant-even though he seems to be everyone elses hero).

Once again they beat the Lakers! It was an awesome game.

It was a rare treat to get Jarim to actually be seen in public with us and go to the game. He brought Amber and I think the enjoyed themselves.

We get buffet dinner and unlimited food/drink from the concession stands. It's awesome! This was the dessert Mark brought back for me. Notice it was pratially eaten....

BLAZERS WIN!!!! I knew they would.

My Future Pilot

2009-10-07T13:18:00.000-07:00

Mark has always wanted to get his pilots license. He talks about it quite often, but I just kind of ignored him. He went to Alaska to go fishing and was able to co-pilot a float plane and was more than hooked. Now it's all he talks about.

So, for his birthday I got him flying lessons (he couldn't believe it and has been just like a kid). He hopes to have his license within the next 6 months. He starts ground school on Monday (10/12) and gos Monday's and Wednesdays from 6-8:30. His first flying lesson is tonight (10/7) and he is so excited!

I'm not sure I'm excited to fly in a small plane, as flyinging a BIG one is not easy for me, but it will make trips home shorter. They will just have to sedate me and throw me on.To announce my grand plan, I arranged for a friend to take Mark up in his plane....I stayed on land to take pictures, but the girls wanted to go. They are much braver than I.

Justin showed Mark around the plane and exlained what he does to check it each time he goes up and answered questions Mark had. Then they loaded up.It was exciting for a bit, but then ended up being a bummer as the plane would not start. So, they are planning on another time to go up after figuring out what the problem was.

We'll keep you posted on his progress.

Daddy & Lakai

2009-10-07T12:25:00.000-07:00

Lakai sees his daddy, Ryan, most every day, but I am sad to say I don't pull out my camera too often. I'm glad I did capture some of their playtime together on this day. Ryan is a great daddy and sure loves his boy. He can't stop kissing and hugging him.

Seeing the Seahawks with Friends

2009-10-06T12:38:00.000-07:00

We took the time to try and hit a couple Seahawks games this season. We asked our friends, the Feldmans, to go with us. We had a great trip up the visiting and laughing. I know this isn't a wonderful picture of me, but it's what Mark too the time to take. I'm usually not in too many of our family pictures in case you haven't noticed.

The Feldman's (Randy & Julie) in the backseat four our tailgate party before the game started.

Mark and I enjoying the game cuddled together....it was chilly.

Skate Night

2009-09-29T13:39:00.000-07:00

Chelsi had Family Skate Night with her school, so all of us except for Jarim went. He's at the age where we have a hard time getting him to do anything with us. I guess we are no longer cool, or he's trying to be more independent.

Chelsi and her friends had a great time skating.
Tristin and Mark had a great time watching and asking me when it would be over.

Mark was the token male at the rink. He wondered why no other husbands were there, after all it was "Family Skate Night." He made numerous arguements to try and shirk his fatherly duties, but hung out with the mom's the entire night. He's a good man.

Chelsi showed us her mad skills all night and tried to stay away from the walls. Slippery surfaces, skates and Chelsi are not a good mix.

Scrapbooking & Great Wolf Lodge

2009-09-28T13:51:00.000-07:00

I was fortunate enough to go to the Quick Quotes Private Reserve Weekend and bring my girls and grandson with me. This was a weekend filled with scrapbook projects (i.e. pages, books, file boxes, altered canvas, etc.), inside water park, arcade games, icecream, pedicures, magi quest game, meals and just hanging out. It was held at the Great Wolf Lodge, which is somewhere we always wanted to go as a family. We got a convention rate on the room, which included the indoor water park, and it was about half the normal rate. For such a bargain I had to go.

Tristin was such a help watching and entertaining Chelsi, so I could enjoy a weekend for ME. I don't think she realizes how much I needed this time to myself, thinking, creating, meeting new people, relaxing, enjoying my family and trying to recharge. Thank you so much sweetie!

The kids and I in front of the stage area, where they had an automated show during the day and bedtime stories in the evening.

This is me and one of the instructors, Michelle. She is such a great person and a lot of fun. She is very creative and real, and she tried to connect with each of the 150+ participants. She came all the way from Florida to lead the classes and I enjoyed every minute.

This is Chelsi enjoying her ice cream pedicure. Her feet smelled soooo good.

These are the ladies who sat at my table at most of the classes. They also had a HUGE table of prizes....I was not a winner of any of them.

I did WIN a $50 gift certificate for the altered canvas that I created. I gave the canvas to Tristin for all her help for the weekend. She says the pictures swayed the voters to vote for mine, I think it was my creativity...she's probably right.

This is the water park where Tristin, Lakai and Chelsi spent a lot of their time. It was truly a great place and really wore them all out.

Chelsi under the water mushroom. It was hard to get her out of the waterpark and do something else. She did finally play the Magi Quest (a treasuer hunt throught the hotel) game and spent some time in the arcade.

Tristin and Lakai having some play time together. Lakai loved it and just smiled and posed the whole time.

This is a CPR teaching dummy that was laying on the side of the pool and totally freaked me out, as I thought is was a child.

Tristin and Lakai

2009-09-26T13:03:00.000-07:00

Here are some pictures of Tristin and Lakai. He sure loves his mommy (even though he says "daddy" all the time). It is such a blessing to have them living with us and watching what a great mom Tristin is, even with her plate so full (Mark and I must have done something right). She just adores Lakai and he thinks she is the world.Checking himself out in his mirror.

I think he knows he's cute.

Here is another attempt to show you Lakai's new toofies. He was sleeping, but woke up after we started messing with him.....oops!

Khloe & Lakai

2009-09-20T11:41:00.000-07:00

Khloe, Ryan's Neice, spent the night with us last night and had a blast holding Lakai and playing with Chelsi. She is really good with him and a joy to have at our house. She calls every now and again and asks if she can come over and stay with us. She is a crack up!

Lakai's First Toofies

2009-09-18T11:34:00.000-07:00

I know they are hard to see, but they are there....two little toofies. Look close and there are shiny, pearly whites right on the bottom.Oh my gosh this little guy is so cute. He just makes you smile whenever you look at him. I get happy tears at times as I look at him because it brings back so many wonderful memories of Tristin and Jarim when they were his age. Also, because I missed this age with Chelsi and I bet it was awesome....she was such a cutie too.

Thank you Lakai for making me smile and for helping me to slow down and enjoy the little stuff.

First Day of Sixth Grade

2009-09-09T15:42:00.000-07:00

Chelsi is in sixth grade this year. She really loves her teacher and the kids in her class. She loves school and couldn't wait to get back. Mar heard something in the house at about 5 am....finally he got up to take a look and it was Chelsi, fully dressed and ready for school. He made her go back to bed for a while and judging from her crabbiness that evening, I'm guessing she couldn't go back to sleep.

This is Chelsi and her principal, Mr. Holcomb.
These are some of the kids in her class.

This is me and some of my friends on the first day. We greet the families and help the kids find their classes all week long. Then on Friday (the first kindergarten day) we help them find their classes and get oriented in their rooms. We also held a "Tea and Tissues" for the parents, so they can get to know other kindergarten parents and get through the morning. Judging from some parents reaction, I think we need to call our event "BooHoo or Yahoo!" next year. Personally for me its a YAHOO!

Chief Timothy Park

2009-09-08T11:19:00.000-07:00

We decided to go on a trip with some friends for the week before Labor Day, to celebrate the end of summer and school starting. When we were there (and knowing that we were so close to Spokane - didn't know we'd be so close, cuz I didn't know where the park was), we decided to call Ben and Lucy to come up for the day. It was awesome! I would have loved to invite everyone, but I was sure some had plans and Ben is always up for a last minute plan if he can pull it off....sorry everyone else in my family....next time.

We pulled girls on tube, ate, boated, pulled girls on tube, wakeboarded, relaxed on dock, pulled girls on tube, fished, ate, pulled girls on tube, made smores, and pulled the girls on the tube. It was awesome!

Sitting down with friends and family, being able to relax and laugh was something that our family really needed. The only downer was that Tristin and Lakai were not able to enjoy the trip with us as she needed to stay home and work....life of an adult.

Jarim got a camera for his brthday and loves to play around. Here is picture he took of the fire after we'd all gone to bed. Pretty cool..huh?

These are the geese that live in the campsite next to ours. There was goose poop everywhere. We also saw bunnies, stray cats and had a skunk that showed up every night. Chelsi thought it would be fun to chase and capture the bunnies...and the skunk. We had to put a STOP to that. I'm not exctly sure she realized what it as at first....wouldn't that have been a smelly surprise.

Chelsi, Ashley and Alexis posing for the camera while tubing. Ash and Lex are a bit less scared to let go of the handles.

The girls playing in the RV. They were trying to hide from us so they didn't have to go to bed.

Jarim doing the flying squirrel backwards flip off the wake skate. I give it a "10!"

Tyler was the king of the front of the boat. I think I even saw a smile, but I couldn't capture it.

Mark and I relaxing with Snickers on the tube. It was amazing we got it away from the girls.

Kodi, Ben and Jarim kicking back while riding the tube.

I really like this picture of the girls.

Our friends, Dale and Stephanie Lindstrom. We had such a great time and appreciated them showing us such beautiful spot to spend some time together. The water was like glass pretty much the whole time we were there....every day......all day. Thank you both!

5 Months Old - Dang He's Cute!

2009-08-31T16:52:00.000-07:00

Oh my gosh, this little man is growing up so fast.

He is so happy and brings a smile to your face whenever you see him. Everyone who meets him absolutley falls in love with him....how could you not?

He reminds me so much of Tristin.

It's the squinty, cheesy, "I'm doing something I'm not supposed to be doing" look.

Bathtime in the sink is lots of fun, especially when your mom teaches you how to splash.

Kai is trying to sit up like a big boy, but falls over and then recovers to his tummy with a smile.

Playing Peek-A-Boo with himself. He makes me laugh.

Grandpa teaching him to stand next to the couch.

I think it's a little soon, but Mark thinks he's a CHAMPION and advanced for his age...lol.

Grandpa's Lakai's

2009-08-31T13:35:00.001-07:00

Mark found some "Lakai" shoes online and couldn't wait to get himself a pair. What a dork - but as Chelsi says, he's my dork. I'm sure he's looking for a whole outfit to go with them now.

My Crafty Girl

2009-08-30T10:25:00.000-07:00

Trisin doesn't consider herself crafty at all...she really is, but just doesn't really do anything. She also complains that I never put anything up at the house that she has made, but she's not made a whole lot. I do have a papermach snail, that looks like Spongebob's pet Gary, in my bathroom - a perfect place for a snail, what more does she want? Maybe a picture of that will be posted at a later date. If it's up to Tristin, I'm sure a much later date.

She made this picture this weekend and I think it's awesome and wanted to share it with the internet world. Jarim's stuff is just hanging on the wall.

Christenson Electric Summer Picnic

2009-08-24T13:32:00.000-07:00

Mark held his annual Christenson "Fun in the Sun" Family Picnic. There was lots of fun to be had and I think the families really enjoyed it. There were a lot more NEW families that showed up, it was nice to see new faces.

We had raffles, BBQ, games, gifts, bounce houses, face painting, balloon art, airbrush tattoos, softball game with all ages and visiting and getting to know the employees and their families.

Thank you to Joanne, Tamera and Loni for all their hard work in putting this together.

Mark making his rounds to meet and greet everyone.

Lots of families, food and treats.

The big giveaway was a Trager smoker.

Bizzy the Clown was the hit of the party with the kids and adults alike. She did face painting and balloon art. She was busy the whole time she was there. We had her at Chelsi's birthday party last year and I knew she would be a great asset to this years event.

You can see some of her work below.

The bouncey toys were a hit this year too. Both adults and kids had races though the obstacle course and there was also a bounce house where the kids could go crazy while contained.

Lakai wasn't feeling well and slept pretty much the whole time. Poor little monkey. He looked so handsome in his little man outfit. He's growing up so fast.

Ugh! Braces

2009-08-24T13:14:00.000-07:00

Chelsi got her braces today. I think the pictures say it all.

She's gonna have straight teeth and be more beautiful in a couple of years.

Bath Time

2009-08-06T12:28:00.000-07:00

How can you not chuckle when you look at this picture. Kai loves his bathes and we had fun playing with bubbles. He looked like a naked garden knome.

Wakefest 2009

2009-08-01T12:55:00.000-07:00

Portland hosts Wakefest every summer on the Willament River. We decided to take the boat and take it all in. After it took us about 1 hour to anchor the boat, so it would stay in place during all the water activity, we finally had time to really enjoyed ourselves. The weather was beautiful and the people watching was great. We were about the 5th people there and after about an hour, it was a sea of people that went on forever. You could walk from one bost to the other as they all tie up together. It was quite the experience.

There were wakeboard riders that were awesome, but hard to capture in action.

The motocross stunt riders were also hard to capture, but I did my best.

Jarim was bugging Mark, but I believe Mark got the last laugh.

Tristin and Ryan loving on Lakai and trying to keep him out of the sun....it was HOT!Kai taking a nap. The waves just lulled him to sleep.Jarim stayed cool by jumping off the top of the boat. Made me a little nervous, but he survived. Nana Grams playing with her little cowboy. Trying to stay hydrated and get some sun.
Captured Jarim doing what he does best.

Mayfield Lake

2009-07-27T09:37:00.000-07:00

We're having a heat wave in Vancouver (between 99-107 degrees), so Mark and I decided to take a long weekend and go to Mayfield Lake. It's about 1.5 hours north of us, near a little town called Mossy Rock. Some friends told us about it and we'd gone about a month ago and loved it, so we decided to give it another go, plus they actually had a RV spot (which was unbelievable - someone must have cancelled and we got lucky). It's a great place, but little expensive. They have a restaurant, store, showers, swimming hole, RV/tent/rooms and much more. They even have a family dance every Saturday night.

Jim Ferguson (works with Mark) and his 2 kids came along. Ryan, Tristin and Lakai came up Saturday and stayed until Sunday late afternoon (Ryan had to go to work) and we had some friends show up Sunday afternoon to spend the day with us.

We had a great time, but were hot, tired and sunburned for the ride home.

This is Chelsi and Alexis right before Chelsi FLEW off the tube. She always brags that she never falls off (she also doesn't let us go over any bumps or over 10 mph), so we decided that she was issueing us a challenge and it was time she knew what it was like to hit the water. She actually did very well, didn't cry or anything. I was laughing so hard I cried after I knew she was okay.
Trisin did a really good job on the surfer. I think she may have been a little worried about not doin so great, especially after having a baby and not being in her steller shape, but she proved herself wrong by staying up longer than anyone else who rode. She did AWESOME!

Finally got Jarim on the surfer. Since the water was not at 82 degrees (like it is at Lake Shasta), it's very hard to get him in the water. He just popped up like usual and got the party started on the surf board.

Hurley LOVES the water and LOVES riding in the boat. It's hard to keep him in the boat, even when it's moving. We have to constantly be on our toes to keep him in the boat.

Zoe, on the other hand, HATES the water and HATES the boat. We keep bringing her so that she can get used to it. It's getting better,but she still finds places to hide. I opened the underneath storage compartment to get out some towels and sunscreen and she promptly ran inside. This is where she stayed until we go back to shore. It cracked me up.

Sun & Sand

2009-07-19T13:50:00.000-07:00

Chelsi, Lakai, my friend Judy and me went to Pioneer Square to see the sand sculptures. They were pretty incredible. Can you tell what stories they are from?

The Simpsons.
The Kids on the Block are puppets that go around to schools and tach children values. It's a great program and some of the proceeds from this event went to benefit this organization.

Hungry, Hungry Hippo.

Dragon Tales.

Not sure...sorry I can't remember.

Where the Wild Things Are.

A Day at the Beach

2009-07-14T20:14:00.001-07:00

We decided to finally take the boat out of storage and check out a new part of the river. I think this was Lakai's first trip out and we all had a ton of fun.

Ryan, Lakai and Tristin enjoying fun in the sun.

Lakai didn't much care for his lifejacket, but what baby does, they are a little binding and uncomfortable.
Lakai fell asleep in the beach chair. We had to get the umbrella so he didn't get burned.
Tristin being helpful and unloading the boat. Poor girl, you think she would ask for some help.
Chelsi sitting in the sun and eating - like that's a surprise. You can't tell by looking at her, but eating is her favorite past time.
Ryan and Chris playing horseshoes.
Chelsi blocking the sun for Mark. You can tell "Sticks" isn't doing a very good job.

Girls Night Out!

2009-07-14T20:12:00.002-07:00

Some of my friends and I went to dinner and a movie (The Proposal) at Cinetopia. We decided after not seeing eachother since school let out, that we would go out on the town, without kids. It was a fun, much needed evening, full of laughter and memory making. We decided that we're gonna make it a regular occurance, so we can see the chick flicks our honeys don't want to take us to.

Happy 17th Jarim

2009-07-14T20:12:00.001-07:00

Jarim opening his present, a new digital camera. Jarim really has a great eye and is very creative, so Mark and I thought we needed encourage his artistry.Jarim eating his icecream cupcake. They were pretty good: chocolate cup, cake, icecream and whipped cream frosting.Lakai eating his first icecream. You should have seen his face, but we think he liked it. Jarim absolutely HATES me taking pictures, especially of him, but I happened to capture a few of his birthday.

I just love him and all he is. He's a typical teenager....annoying and lazy, but he is also kind hearted, loves his mom (mommy's boy), a true friend, honest and so funny. He makes me laugh all the time.

I love you buddy, and I am soooo glad you were born.

Playing in the Pond with Vinnie

2009-06-28T20:59:00.000-07:00

My sister Kristin and her family (Clint, Valencia and Vinnie) came to visit this summer. I just love having family over, even though it doesn't happen very often. Valencia and Chelsi played in the house - Mark, Clint and Kristin sat in the pergola enjoying the weather and Vinnie and I st in the pond and played in the water.

I completely enjoyed my time with him and the fact that he wanted to sit with Aunt Aimee and talk and play just really wared my heart. I will remember this time always.Vinnie was playing with the bubbling rocks and it hit him right in the face. He was totally surprised at what had just happened and I was totally hysterical at his reaction. We both got a good laugh.

More faces of Lakai

2009-06-09T21:20:00.001-07:00

I have had a special request that I pictures of Lakai up on our blog. No one really cares about the rest of the family....just Lakai.

Kai sleeping and cuddling with his blanket. He fell asleep on our 3 minute drive to my friends house. She just had to snap this picture and send it to me.

Lakai enjoying a nap and Tristin enjoying a snowcone in a cup at Klineline Park. Lakai helping grandpa cook hamburgers and hotdogs at the Little League closing ceremonies. Brodie giving Lakai a BIG, wet doggy kiss.
Playing in his swing. He loves it for about 10 minutes at a time, and falls asleep very seldom.
Playing on the floor with mommy and giving kisses. Kai is his bouncy chair. LOVES it....for about 10 minutes tops. Napping in the back of the car. He isn't sleeping as much these days and wants to be help of entertained all the time, so we cherish these time.

Photo Shoot Results

2009-06-09T21:02:00.001-07:00

These are the end results of Lakai's photo shoot. Kristin took a lot of pictures, but these are some of my favorites, including the four generations with me, my dad, Tristin and Lakai.

Jarim wins Grand Prize in Art Show

2009-06-01T21:19:00.000-07:00

Battle Ground School District hosted an art show to showcase art from students from throughout the entire district. Jarim's art teacher asked him to bring in some of his pieces. Well, he got a first place a couple of honoral mentions and won the grand prize for the entire art show. His teacher told him he had won some stuff, but he didn't feel that it was important enough to tell us. We missed the art show, he didn't even go, and we missed the announcement of his winnings. I found out the night of, because one of my friends was there with her 1st grade daughter, heard the announcement and imediately called me.

Wow, he can't even give us the opportunity to be "Proud Parents."

Grand Prize winner and 1st place winner.

Jarim's favorite and an honorable mention winner.
Honorable mention winner.

He is so gifted and talented and I hope he knows it, like we do. We are proud of him and hope he takes those artistic energies and uses them in a positive manner.
Love U Buddie!

PV PTA 3K Family Fitness Walk

2009-05-31T21:01:00.000-07:00

The PTA at Pleasant Valley put on a Family Fitness walk for the first time (thank you Galaviz family for all your hard work) on the WSU Vancouver campus. It was a hit! They had local community fitness/health booths, dogs from the Humane Society that could be rented for the walk, lots of freebies, drawings, dancing, demonstrations, food, etc.

A wonderful time was had by all ,and we look forward to having a bigger event next year. Thanks to our whole community for their participation and support. Chelsi with her friend Ashley and Snickers getting ready to walk.The starting line. The weather was beautiful, the sky was clear and you could see Mt. Adams, Mt. Hood and Mt. St. Helens from the starting line. (Mt. St. Helens is in background)

My friend, Stephanie, leading the girls at the start of the walk. Mark and I could not be there the whole time, so she was Chelsi's surrogate mom for the day. Mark going through the finish line. He didn't actually walk, but the picture was much more interesting with a person in it. He did a great job looking like he actually did something.

Groove Nation was there and lead the runners/walkers in a dance as a warm up prior to the race. Young and old danced and laughed, but this old person can't remember what it was called.
Chelsi feeling the love at the beginning of the race. Great job sweetie!

Memorial Day Camping

2009-05-26T21:00:00.000-07:00

Over Memorial Day, we were able to go to Farragut State Park and meet up with some of the Dahlke side and extensions of them....a little family reunion so to speak. All my sibling showed up at one time or another, but most camped with us. We went on bike rides, played frisbee golf, played in the water (which was freezing) while collecting heart-shaped rocks, some went fishing, we BBQ'd, played games, sat around the campfife and made s'mores, got silly and enjoyed our time together. It was a wonderful trip and a blessing to share it with those you love.

Grandpa Dahlke spending time with his new grandson. What a wonderful picture.

Mark on the frizbee golf course with his "In your Face" face on.
Kody, giving Lakai eskimo kisses.
Kristin and her family, which included Amia for the weekend. (Amia, Vinnie, Valencia, Kirstin & Clint)
Jarim giving Kody a ride on his bike....pretty scary to watch, but Kody thought is was awesome.
Benton eating, eating and eating more.
Our family, which included Skylor for the weekend. (Chelsi, Aimee, Mark, Tristin & Lakai, Jarim and Skylor)
Benjamin's Family (Kody, Ben, Lucy and Tyler)
Tony and mom playing games.
Kody showing his best side.

Thunder Softball

2009-05-15T20:57:00.000-07:00

Chelsi played softball for Glenwood Little League this year and her team was the THUNDER! She was coached by Jim and Misty and had a pretty good year. She played catcher, shortstop, second base and outfield. She did a great job this year, learned a lot, and made us proud.

Coach Jim and Coach Misty striking a pose.
Chelsi with Coach Misty posing before hauling to 2nd base.
The whole "Thunder" team goofing around.
Hit,Run Score!
Chelsi is the field. Ready position.
Thunder: Hailey, Chelsi, Rachel, Audi, Sammi, Mea, Nicole, Kailyn, Crystal, Maria and Rebecca.

Sticks at bat...she hit a double. YEAH!

Chelsi and her buddy Nicole. Such a sweetie and good friend.
My favorite picture from the season. Love her eyes.

PTA Convention

2009-05-05T20:58:00.000-07:00

Well, I was voted in as PTA Co-President this school year. They must have served some special punch at the General Membership meeting in order for them to vote me in, and I must have not been in my right mind to say "yes." I have been involved in PTA for the past three years (1st year as VP, 2nd year as Secretary and now President), before then I wasn't very active at all, except for some voluntering here and there. I look forward to the challenge and need your prayers to help me get through it. It may be a 2-year term, so my family and I need your blessings.

Every year in May there is the Washington State PTA Convention. I have gone for the past three years and it's always a great learning experience, as well as meeting others who are passionate about doing the best for our children and making connections. It's also a time to grow as an Executive Committee and get to know one another better.

These are my partners in crime this year. Stephanie-VP Communications, Sheryl-Secretary, ME, Melinda-Co-President, Amii-VP Middle School and Jennifer-VP rimary School. We missed Rhonda-Treasurer, who was spending time with her boys after being diagnosed with breast cancer. She is a joy - is doing wonderful - and is a blessing to our group. We love you!

PVM Outdoor School

2009-05-05T10:15:00.000-07:00

I was fortunate enough to be a counselor a Outdoor School at the middle school this year. This position is by invitation only, and the very leader is very selective. Can't believe I made it in personally, but am glad I did as this may be close to the last year for the program. It was a great experience and I hope it does continue.

This program teaches kids about the great outdoors and how to preserve it - Reduce/Reuse/Recycle!

We were able to learn about water, dirt, air, trees and plants, birds/bee/bats, crafts, games, singing, line dancing, bugs, wilderness survival, and bonding with friends. This is a program that kids remember long after they have left 6th grade.

I look forward to being able to go with Chelsi next year. It will be a great memory we can share.

Me and my counselors.

Listening to the trees and nature.
Bird watching.
Singing and skits.
Shaking dirt and discovering the different layers.
Doing tests on a creek.
Me and some of my girls....just loved them.
The whole gang - of Finches (our group name)
Some more of my girls....loved them too.
The whole gang outside the dirt shack.

Trip to Arizona

2009-04-25T23:25:00.000-07:00

Entry to the hotel. It was so beautiful.The courtyard, where we ate breakfast and lunch.This is a saying from Frank Lloyd Wight that I loved. He was very much into using nature in his architecture and throughout his compound. He built around, never destroyed, and enjoyed everything round him. His school of architecture is also located here (they spend 1/2 time in Arizona and 2 time back east studying) and the students learn ad take care of cooking, cleaning and also build their own housing. It was so interesting. I think I want to send Jarim there...one step closer to getting that dream fulfilled.

Mark and I in front of Frank Lloyd Wright's home view.

Our friends, and Mark's co-worker, Mark & Lisa Merkland. A bit of funny...my Mark is "Anthony Mark" and Merkland is "Mark Anthony"....weird.

The pool where I spent most of my days, reading, relaxing and sunning.

The Spa where I was able to get a facial and much needed pedicure, as well as swim in the mineral pool (pictured here).

Mark took me to Arizona for a NECA (National Electrical Contractors Association) Convention. We had such a great time just the two of us. I got to lay by the pool in the 90+ degree weather, while he went to meetings...that's the life. We also had wonderful dinners each night, learned about the Native American culture through dance, go to have dinner and a tour at one of Frank Lloyd Wright's homes. He is my favorite architect, and I will have a home some day with some of his elements.....it's a dream of mine. Can't wait until next year's meeting.

Hurley's Mohawk

2009-04-24T21:23:00.000-07:00

I took Hurley to the groomer an got a wild hair to give him a mohawk. The groomer was very excited to do something fun. Now we just need to dye it some funky color.

Lakai's Photo Session

2009-04-20T20:40:00.000-07:00

Kristin was kind enough to do a photo session with Lakai for Tristin. She was so patient and had a lot of great ideas....Ann Geddes look out. Lakai slept through most of the session, but got a little cranky towards the end, but Kristin used all her tricks and the pictures turned out wonderful. Valencia also was a BIG helper to her mom. I'm sure she will follow in her mom's footsteps. Kristin is so talented and we are so blessed that she is so generous with her talent.

Visit to Spokane

2009-04-19T12:00:00.000-07:00

We drove to Spokane for a baby shower my family threw for Tristin. It was so nice to be able to bring Lakai for all to see. It was also nice to see family, and friends that we hadn't seen in years. Everyone was so generous and a great time was had by all. THANK YOU EVERYONE!

Great Grandma Sharon Walter snuggling Lakai for the first time.
Great Grandpa Gary Dahlke posing with Lakai just like his mom did with me...many years ago.
Uncle Tony loving on his great nephew.

Uncle Ben taking a close look at his new great nephew.

Four generations (me, my mom Nancy Chevigny-Dahlke, baby Lakai and Tristin).

Auntie Kristin hugging her new great nephew.

Auntie Becca and baby Lakai. I'm sure she can't wait to have her own little guy any day now.

Aunti Garianne hogging Lakai. You think her 6 kids would have been enough or her...lol.

Tristin's school friends she hadn't seen since 8th grade. Nicole, Tristin, Serra and Hannah with her son Levi.

Chelsi's New Haircut

2009-04-16T22:00:00.000-07:00

Chelsi decided that she wanted to get her hair cut and she wanted it to be short with no bangs. We looked through a lot of books and she asked for a lot of opinions from friends and family. This is the one that she decided on and I think it was a good choice. Much easier to take care of too.

Isn't she BEAUTIFUL?

Finally going home with Lakai

2009-03-28T16:30:00.000-07:00

Tristin and Ryan were getting completely stir crazy sitting in their birthing room. They could not wait to go home and be relaxed and comfortable in their own surroundings. I'm sure they won't be getting any more sleep, as there aren't nurses there to help them. Tristin is so independent and wants to do all she can on her own - I told her to take all the help she can get, because she will miss it when it isn't there, but I am also trying to not force myself on them either....it's hard. I don't want to wear out my welcome.

Chelsi and I went to their apartment this morning and decorated the entry this morning before going and helping them get their stuff home. They were surprised and excited to see our work. I dropped off their stuff and headed home to catch up on my blog.

We are so blessed to have Lakai in our lives. I didn't think I could ever love someone as much as my own children, but I was completely wrong. I love this little man. I am so excited I get to be a part of his life, and watch him grow and be here for his parents.

I am so LUCKY and BLESSED!

Day 2 with Lakai

2009-03-27T17:00:00.000-07:00

"We never dreamed you'd be so beautiful... In all of the times we tried to imagine every last detail of who you would be, thru all of the nights we spent quietly thinking of how we would feel when we first looked at you, we patiently waited and silently wondered. We hoped and we prayed and we tried to imagine... but we never dreamed you'd be so beautiful."

Ryan with Lakai and his sisters, Mandy and Leah, and his niece, Khloe.

It was wonderful seeing them all together.Jarim sat for a couple of hours just looking at Lakai and checking out every nook and cranny. He was so interested in him and watched everything he did. Anytime anyone else held him, Jarim would ask for him. I finally had to make him go to work so I could get a chance to hold him.

I loved watching him take in everything about his new nephew.

He is going to be so good with him a teach him so many wonderful things.Chelsi did such a great job with Lakai. She was a little nervous at first, but caught on very quickly. She said she can't wait until he gets big enough to really be able to play.

I'm sure that time will come sooner than we really want it to.

Lakai's First Bath

2009-03-26T16:00:00.000-07:00

Lakai didn't really dig his first bath.

It started out rough, but when nurse Beth (Tristin and Ryan's favorite) rubbed his head and combed his hair, he'd fall asleep.

Then she'd wash his back, legs or belly and he'd cry....move to his head and he'd sleep again.

It was so cute, but mostly funny.

Lakai Scott Boell Has Finally Arrived!

2009-03-26T11:07:00.000-07:00

"A baby will make love stronger, days shorter, nights longer, bankroll smaller, home happier, clothes shabbier, the past forgotten, and the future worth living for."

--Author Unknown

"The moment a child is born,

the mother is also born.

She never existed before.

The woman existed,

but the mother, never.

A mother is something absolutely new."

--Rajneesh

Mom and dad relieved that Lakai is finally here.

Tristin did a fantastic job and Ryan was a wonderful coach and cried a baby himself.Weighing in at 7 lbs 11 ozs and measuring 19 inches long, he is just perfect.Mom and dad finally settling in for the night after many visitors and people coming in to check on mom and baby. I don't think they will actually get much rest, as they can't quit cuddling, watching and listening to him. This is grandma's favorite picture of the day.

37 Weeks - It's Getting Harder to Wait!

2009-03-09T21:00:00.000-07:00

Tristin was sitting like this while I was cleaning out my scrapbook stuff. I'm not sure how she did it, but it did take her a while to get up (that's why I had time to get my camera). We are getting so excited, and I have to answer the phone any time it rings....just in case. We will let you know when we know something.

Tristin's Baby Shower

2009-02-28T21:09:00.000-08:00

My friend Trish (pictured above with Tristin) had a baby shower for Tristin, Lakai and Ryan. Her daughter danced on the Skyview Dance Team with Tristin and we have all been friends ever since. Trish had so many other things going on in her life, but she wanted this day to be a special one. We are so lucky and blessed to have such good friends.

This shower was phenomenal (about 40 guests) and her friends and family were so generous. Lakai is going to be one lucky baby to have so many people who are looking forward to his arrival and will be watching over him and his parents.

No More Months, Now it's Weeks - #34

2009-02-16T21:15:00.001-08:00

It's getting closer and we are all getting more excited, but I think Tristin is getting a little nervous. Ryan put up the crib last week and Tristin is washing and ironing baby stuff. Finally getting baby stuff and putting it together is making it more real and exciting for both of them. When we finish Lakai's nursery, we will post a picture. They started birthing classes a few weeks ago and have found them to be both interesting and a little scary.

We'll continue to keep you posted.

Quading at Sand Lake

2009-02-16T20:49:00.001-08:00

Mark and I took the kids to Sand Lake Sunday to go quading. I was a little concerned because I had to learn the whole hand/foot clutching thing and when Mark was giving me the crash course in front of the house, it didn't work too well. It has also been very cold, rainy and gray here and I was not up to freezing to death for a whole day (it always seems to be colder at the coast than here). Well.....the closer we got to the coast the more concerned I got, there was snow on the pass and the skys were gray. Then, all of a sudden, it cleared up and there were beautiful, blue, sunny skies for the entire day. It was a bit chilly when riding, but nothing a wind breaker couldn't solve. I think we even got a little tan. We went with our neighors, the Needhams. They have been going for over 10 years and were able show us all the good places. The scenery was so beautiful and I felt blessed to be able to share this day with my family and friends.

Sweetheart Ball

2009-02-15T19:51:00.000-08:00

Every year around Valentine's Day NECA (The National Electrical Contractor's Association) has a sweetheart ball. Mark and I have gone for the past 5 years. It's the one and only time during the year that I get to dress up and I also get to dress Mark up. It's was held at The Governor Hotel (built in 1909), which is a luxury hotel billed as a “Hotel of Quiet Elegance” that has become a landmark in Portland’s history. It's much like one of my favorite hotels in downtown Spokane called The Davenport. The decor for the evening was white/brown and tiffany box blue and was absolutely breathtaking. There was incredible food, drinks, dessert, lots of dancing and a gift (silver earrings) for each lady who attended. Mark, me and the rest of the Christenson crowd were some of the last to leave. We had a wonderful time visiting and getting to know them better. Mark was so handsome and he told me I looked beautiful. It was a night to remember one that I look forward to every year.

Bird Hunting

2009-02-14T21:30:00.000-08:00

Here are some hunting pictures from the end of the year. A little late I know, but better late than never. On his last hunt, Mark got four birds with two shots....pretty impressive if I do say so myself. He just loves his dog, Brodie, and brags that he is quite the hunting dog....he is a pretty awesome hunter, but I will never admit it out loud, as he is a pain in every other aspect of life.

Valentine's Day

2009-02-14T19:58:00.000-08:00

Longer than there've been fishes in the ocean,

Higher than any bird ever flew,

Longer than there've been stars up in the heavens,

I've been in love with you.

Stronger than any mountain cathedral,

Truer than any tree ever grew,

Deeper than any forest primeval,

I am in love with you.

I'll bring fires in the winters,

You'll send showers in the springs.

Well fly through the falls and summers,

With love on our wings.

Through the years as the fire starts to mellow,

Burning lines in the book of our lives.

Though the binding cracks and the pages start to yellow,

I'll be in love with you.

Longer than there've been fishes in the ocean,

Higher than any bird ever flew,

Longer than there've been stars up in the heavens,

I've been in love with you

I am in love with you...

-Dan Fogleberg-

Jarim's Artwork

2009-02-05T13:10:00.000-08:00

Jarim has changed high schools and loves it! One of his classes is Art (completely his bag).

He has to do 6-8 hours of art a week, but usually does more.

I can't believe his creativity and the passion he has for what he is doing.

I just wanted to share some of his work with you, from oldest to most recent.

I am so proud! I'm sure there will be more to come.

Celebrate Portland

2009-01-26T11:04:00.000-08:00

Tristin and I went to the "Celebrate Portland 2009" scrapbook convention this past Saturday. We had so much fun together, even if it really wasn't Tristin's thing (an icecream treat was all she needed to have a blast).

I need to get her primed for when Lakai is born, as I am still so far behind on my own children's lives. She loves her scrapbooks, so I'm sure she will want to do the same for her boy. We worked on her baby shower invites and on a "1st Year" baby book.

Tristin started out slow, taping pieces, but moved quickly to doing pages. She's a natural. We didn't get much done, but I completely enjoyed every minute with her.

Father/Son Qauding

2009-01-26T10:53:00.000-08:00

Mark and Jarim went quading yesterday at Sand Lake. They had the best time together and Mark can't stop talking about it. He enjoyed spending time with his son and enjoyed being out in nature just going nuts! There were miles and miles to ride and the weather was sunny and warm. He is looking forward to saving to get another, so we can all go together. Both Mark and Jarim are a bit sore today and Jarim even has some war wounds from jumping, landing and flying over the handlebars. He said it was AWESOME, but I'm not sure if that's considered a landing.

I Love You 'til the End of Time

2009-01-24T08:43:00.000-08:00

Mark and I just celebrated our 21st anniversay. It doesn't seem like it's been that long, I feel so old. We kept it pretty low key, but we had a wonderful time together. Mark celebrated his uncles 89th birthday earlier in the day, so he was able to come home early from work. He brought me the most beautiful flowers (I do still get them and sometimes it's not even for a specal occassion) and a romantic card. Things have been so hectic here lately, I forgot to get him a card, talk about lame. I did find one in my stash, so I was able to redeem myself. We went to dinner at one of our favorite spots on the river, McCormick & Schmicks Harborside at the Marina, and they treated us like royalty; a special table, personalized menu, appetizer from the chef sent to our table, wonderful service, fanastic food, beautiful views! After dinner, we decided to go to the casino in LaCenter and put some $100 down on the 21 table for 1 hand, win or lose. We broken even the first hand, let it ride (big mistake, since we said only 1 hand) and lost. We are hoping that's no reflection on the year to come. I love you so much baby! I am one lucky girl. I look forward to 21 plus more years together with you honey. I love you until the end of time.