THE COLEMAN FIVE

Christmas 2011

noreply@blogger.com (Shauna) — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 05:55:00 +0000

Once again, another Holiday Season has come & gone (and now it's all ready February? Man, I can't keep up!! :}). We were excited to have some of the family over for Christmas Eve Dinner.

Oh no, we better not let them be around B-Dog for too long! :}

Jazzy with Uncle Bug

Someone was very excited! :}

Glad we could share it with Mom. We knew it would be a difficult season, being the first one without Dad. Between programs & different family activities, she kept plenty busy!

Kaley sure loves her Grandma Leach! :}

And we sure love our Uncle Glenn too! :}

Glad to have Anj & Tyson join us, with all their busy stops for the night!

Can you say, "Fist Pump"?! Thanks Aunt Laurie! :}

Mom opening up her special gift Glenn got her, from Dad's favorite store by the Bay....a carved Seagull, which has has special meaning to her!

He does love me...I knew it! :}

Now there are two great guys! :}

Cuteness! :}

Kaley sure loves Aunt Colleen too! :}

"Merry Christmas Everyone!"

Well, getting a fat lip Christmas Eve, while falling into the chair, was not exactly what Kaley asked for!

Time to call it a night & let Santa do his thing!

Oh Yea...he still made it this year! (we weren't sure! :})

Fat lip or not, she's still cute no matter what! :}

The boys rockin' their new stylin' winter wear! :}

Who knew she would be so thrilled over an "Angry Bird" (seriously, she wanted this most...and the red one is her favorite one! :})

Well she was easy to please! :}

And they finally get the PS3 they've been wanting for a while. I think he's a happy boy! :}

Must have the traditional "Hoot N' Nannys" for Christmas Breakfast!

This year was a little different than the usual. We normally go to Grandmas for the afternoon; but, since the family party was the next night, and Grandma needed her rest, we had a day to ourselves. We just took the day as it went (which was nice actually! Not that I don't love spending it with the Big Family too; but, we've never just got to stay home all day for Christmas...so, we soaked it up!). We decided to head downtown. The first stop was dinner at Little America (not having to cook dinner...present to me! :})

Next was to the Salt Lake Temple to check out the lights. And you can't get much better than the lights there!

It was nice to spend the night focusing on what's important this time of year, and what Christmas is really all about! They really have a beautiful display there!

I love all the different Nativity Scenes, from all over the world, there on the grounds.

Our kiddos enjoying their day together!

So was Mom & Dad! :}

Doug & I just had to rock the hats too! Yea, we're cool! :}

Kyra joining us for the Extended Family Party at Grandmas the next night

Great to spend quality time with the Tate Family again!

Pajama Party

noreply@blogger.com (Shauna) — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 05:14:00 +0000

A midst the busy Holiday Season, it was nice to enjoy time with friends in a nice casual relaxed mode at the Powell's Annual Pajama Party. What a great idea...just hanging out in our PJ's, not having to get ready for anything! And time with these guys is always a bonus! Especially little "Gavinator" here! :}

Dyl is always good with Iszacc!

Cute kids everywhere! :}

Even that big kid, Al! :}

Iszacc excited for his Christmas Surprise...tickets to the Monster Jam Finals in Vegas! He LOVES his Monster Trucks! :}

Lucky Kenzie gets to go too! :}

Buds, Flex & Kenzie

Our kids love hanging out at Diane & Al's house...always fun times there! :}

Of course, so do the adults! :}

I know how much it means to them to have Deja & Lucas home, especially for Christmas! (and LOVE their PJ's too! :})

Thanks for having us guys...sure do love ya! :}

Finishing up the Utes Football Season

noreply@blogger.com (Shauna) — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 05:39:00 +0000

Despite having to miss the beginning of the football season, I was glad to still make it to a few games & soak in a little of that Utes Football Fun! Always good to run into other friends in the tailgating lot! :} Like the Johnson's & Jessica.

...or my old school buddy, Jeff

What a good sport Kyra was to join us (keep in mind, a big BYU Fan!) on a very cold wet day!

The snow wasn't going to ruin our fun! :}

We've tried hard to recruit her...she's not giving in! :}

UTES...WOOT WOOT!!

My sweet lil' Kaley used her money to pay for both of us to get our painted :}

Jess made these fun hair bows (that of course Kaley had to buy too! :})

Getting in the last bit of tailgating fun for the season

Love our Dance Biz Family! :}

Our football neighbors for many years now

Let's Go Utes!

Can't they just take a normal picture?! :}

"C'mon Dyl...pretend you are thrilled to be with your Mother!" :}

I had to sneak over to the other side to see my other favorite Utah Fans! :}

Great seats over here! :}

Luv my Tina!

Good to run into Megan & Brett, more of our Dance Biz crew, there too! :}

Another season come & gone. Our 1st year in the Pac 12, ending 8-5. Not fabulous; but, not bad. It's exciting to be able to play some bigger teams now. All ready looking forward to next years!!

Rewind back to Thanksgiving

noreply@blogger.com (Shauna) — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 05:11:00 +0000

OK, so it's finally time to get back to blogging. Due to me & my continuous camera issues (and you know I can't seem to blog without my pictures! :}...and why am I the one always taking pictures when I'm the one with camera issues all the time?! :}) & lack of spare time (nothing new, I know!), well, hey....better late than never. So, let's rewind & go back to the holidays. It's actually good to reflect on them now, in the "Season of Love" & think how much I love the people I got to share them with! As tradition continues, I was happy to start out Thanksgiving morning with the Annual Thanksgiving Jazzercise class (which is THE BEST way to start your holiday...outside of sitting on a beach somewhere maybe! :}). Our beautiful leader, Holly, was ready to give them all a fabulous workout!

It's always fun to get other instructors around the valley to team teach this as well, like Alison, Sylvia & Megan here.

And LOVE when I can get my Jazz on with my good friends too! :}

It's also great when families share the love of Jazzercise together...like cute lil' Alli & Ashley (and Mom, Connie, sitting off to the side :})

...and Catharina with her girls & Sister In Law.

I was thrilled to see Raquel there...she was my 1st student when I opened up my classes in West Valley. And despite the language barrier at the time, she was a very devoted customer & loved it instantly! (of course she did! :}) I've missed seeing her & her cute family at the Tae Kwon Do Center where our boys used to go.

Lisa showing us some fancy moves on how you can use your resistance

...and core strength (Hi Miwa! :})

Dylan being our "Vanna" handing out the prizes (which was sweet he came, just in case anyone needed babysitting :})

And once we got done burning the calories, it was time to partake of the calories! This year we got the pleasure of enjoying the festivities at The Duffin's Home.

Kicking back with the Family as we let the food settle. This is like one of those cartoon flip books watching the siblings pick on each other! Meanwhile Bradon won't let "his pose" go! :}

It was fun to have Cathy's new friends from out of town join us.

B-Dog being his normal goofy self. I have no explanation! :}

Annie playing along with Kaley's girl time! :}

Yep, that's my boys! :}

Mary, the Culinary Pro these days!

You never know what may come in an afternoon with the Leach Family! :}

Luv that crazy sister of mine! :}

Haiden getting all big on us!

Just can't get enough of that family of ours! :}

Pennies From Heaven

noreply@blogger.com (Shauna) — Mon, 26 Dec 2011 20:48:00 +0000

I'd like to share a letter from my Mom, given to us this Christmas. As this was the first Christmas without our Dad here, together we all knew it would be a difficult one. He lived for Christmas, and the joy the season brings! We have all felt the comfort of knowing he was with us in spirit, and feel blessed to know he taught us the true meaning of Christmas. We all have our own beliefs and faiths; but, we can't deny when signs are given to us for a reason. In God We Trust...

Thank you Mom for sharing something so special to all of us. I will never look at a penny the same. May we all appreciate them even more!

Happy 9th Birthday Kaley!

noreply@blogger.com (Shauna) — Mon, 14 Nov 2011 04:32:00 +0000

Our little angel turned 9 this week. Really?! 9 years all ready?! Crazy how fast they change! Unfortunately she caught a virus & had to be out of school for a couple days..poor thing, seems to happen to her every birthday! But, the good part of this was getting quality time with the Grandmas for her birthday (Thank God for Mom who saved the day, since I couldn't miss work & Doug was out of town at a convention). I had her take the bag full of little gifts that gave her some fun things to do in the day.

(once again, forgive the poor quality photos...I really need to get me a good camera! :})

Later that evening the boys & I joined them for some birthday dinner

Our cute kiddos getting some silly time in together

Kaley with her special doll that Gramma Sherrie sent

Four Generations of Love

Time for more presents, cake & ice cream

Fortunately she was well enough this weekend for her planned slumber party. First thing on the agenda, "Just Dance II" on the Wii...

There was plenty of silly girl time! :}

...and, of course, more dancing! :}

We just had to have her go through the spanking machine! :}

Dylan was such a good brother this night, helping to keep them entertained. He led them in some night games, and then for some rounds of board games after that.

Sleepy time...or shall we say "gab & giggle time"! Boy does this bring back some memories of growing up! :}

They finally managed to get some sleep & were still full of the sillies in the morning!

It's great when we get a chance to get these three together, who have been friends since the beginning! :}

Happy Birthday Sweet Pea...we sure love you & are very proud of our girl! :}

Thinking about Pops

noreply@blogger.com (Shauna) — Mon, 14 Nov 2011 03:18:00 +0000

It's now been four months since Dad passed away. I still think about him every day. His headstone is in place, I think we did a great job.

Mom took the temporary marker & made a nice place of remembrance for him at the fireplace, right next to his chair. I'm glad she has this spot to keep him close in her heart & mind.

And a few of "his friends" are right there to keep him company too! :}

Miss ya pops..I'm sure you're enjoying your new & improved pain free self, and time with Grandma up there!

The boy's football season comes to an end

noreply@blogger.com (Shauna) — Mon, 14 Nov 2011 02:59:00 +0000

First of all....Welcome Mr. Winter!! We went from a unusually warm Halloween night, to snow the next day (that's Utah for you! :}). And, for the last game of the season, we woke up to plenty! I can't complain since we've had beautiful football weather so far! Kaley here still wasn't sure how excited she was to be out in the cold! :}

Well, throwing snowballs helps! :}

"I'll keep you warm Boo Boo!" :}

This was the beginning of the playoffs, game against Toole, who we lost to earlier in the season, so we were anxious to try & beat them this time!

Cheering our boys on

The Halftime Rally

Back to the business at hand....

It was a tough game & more than frustrating with terrible reffing. I'm not one to blame it on the refs. Sure there's things we could have done better; but, this was just blatant & I felt bad that's how the season had to end. Especially when we lose by 6 after a touchdown gets taken away for bogus reasons. But, what can you do? Still just a game in the end & we're very proud of how much better our boys did this year! They really stepped up...watch out for them next year! :} Meanwhile, back at home, our poor trees were feeling the shock of the heavy wet snow.....

And luckily there was enough snow for Daddy & Kaley to build the 1st snowman of the year! :}

I'm not sure I'm ready for another long winter...let's hope it's not as bad as last year! But, let's admit, it is still pretty to see (just much nicer from inside when you're bundled up all nice & warm! :})

Finally getting back to UTAH FOOTBALL!

noreply@blogger.com (Shauna) — Fri, 11 Nov 2011 21:09:00 +0000

I was anxious to finally get to a U of U game after missing a few while being down! (Well, I did catch part of the 1st one; but, that doesn't really count since I had to wait for Bradon to finish his game & it was the 3rd Quarter by the time we got there! :}) And also glad I could finally make it to the tailgate party (we tend to miss most of them every year due to conflicts with the boys football games). You have to love the thrill & excitement in the air in a tailgate lot! (and enjoy people-watching all the crazies!...or maybe we are the crazies? Hummm......:}). Just glad I could enjoy some Utah fun with my partner in crime, Tina! :}

Nice to have buddy, Marcus, and his brother, Jake, join us for some tailgating fun too! :}

And love that Deanna & Dick got season tickets this year too! :}

Jello anyone?! :}

Rob being his pirate self for some Halloween fun

Ahoy Matey!

Game time!

My handsome boys! Umm Dylan, the hat's kind of big for you.....just sayin'! :}

Randy thought the hat was too entertaining not to purchase it! :}

GO UTES!!

Since it was Halloween weekend, there were a few interesting fans...like Dumb & Dumber here! :}

..or Hellraiser!

The Utes were playing strong all game!

This was the Black Out game...hence the reason you don't see the normal "Sea of Red"

Getting silly with the squishy face pictures with our Football Neighbors

The VERY soon to be new Mommy & Daddy, Ryan & Katie (Baby Kya was born this past week :}).

The Utes continue to rock the game!

Other work buddy, Erik, finally made it too! :}

A couple of the many times our awesome Defense held Oregon State back

Dylan & friends getting silly with the crowd

Give me a U! (love our other neighbors behind the boys giving them the rabbit ears :})

We win 27-8! The flags are flying proudly!

Getting in a little more tailgating fun before we head home

Tony getting a hold of my camera..ok, that's just freaky! :}

All right, only 3 more games left in the season. Though we hoped to start out our 1st year in the Pac 12 better than we have, we still love our Utes just the same. Right now they are 5-4. Let's finish off the season with a bang boys!! :}

Their trip to California

noreply@blogger.com (Shauna) — Fri, 04 Nov 2011 03:40:00 +0000

I'd like to say this was my own vacation; but, this was Part 2 of Laurie's trip back to Utah this past May to celebrate her & Dad's monumental birthdays. I am so glad she listened to that little voice that told her to come & do this adventure. This added trip to California is all the more memorable to her, and to Mom, since Dad passed away not even 2 months later. I wanted to blog about it because I felt like I got to take the adventure with them through her pictures, and so glad I got the chance to do that! Seeing my Dad get to go to his favorite place, the place that brings him the most peace & happiness, and getting to spend time with his family there, warms my heart! Though I know he was in a lot of pain, which made it pretty difficult throughout the trip, he was still so happy that he got to go!

52 years of marriage.....he really did love her! :}

So glad they got this trip together!

Laurie worked her Time Share Magic to find the nicest stops for them, like The Seasons Resort in Lake Tahoe. They were living well! :}

Tahoe is on the top of the list of favorite places to go. You have to love the quaint spots & beautiful scenery! There was still plenty of snow in late May!

Coming down from the Mountains, looking over the California side.

Next destination on the agenda: Fort Bragg......

This area is what used to be the dumping area in the early 20th Century. The pounding waves sweeping the beach, over the decades, wore down the glass into smooth rocks. Hence the name "Glass Beach". There's your History lesson for the day. :}

Good to see Mom getting a well deserved trip herself!

Thanks for making it happen Sis! :}

I've always loved the beauties of Northern California, with it's gigantic trees, hills & big rocks along the ocean side....it brings such a sense of peace!

And there's always something about seeing a Palm Tree. Right?! :}

Laurie got to revisit her old home town. This is the cute shop she worked at, where she met "an angel", her friend, Rabecca. She would tell it best, I still have yet to hear the whole story; but, as a believer of things happen, and people come into your life, for a reason, I have no doubt Rabecca was her savior at a difficult time in her life.

Thank you for taking care of my sister! :}

Speaking of Saviors...here is who actually saved her life after falling from a cliff. Thank You Ft. Bragg Fire Department, we were grateful to get our sister back! :}

Happy Girl! :}

Love this! :}

Next stop, and definitely a family favorite: San Francisco

Despite the pain, Dad is a Happy Man being here! :}

I loved his sense of humor! ( Think that would work with the kids if I put one on my forehead sometimes?! :})

They are ready to tour the city

As Laurie explained, this brought back many memories of Dad coming home from the Korean War, and feeling the joy of being home again!

Going under the infamous Golden Gate Bridge

Alcatraz...if only the walls could talk!

You never know what you're going to see while in San Fran! :}

One "Must Have" is a Clam Chowder Bread Bowl from Fisherman's Wharf!

He might have thought he was all ready in Heaven at this moment! :}

I love my cute parents! :}

He was happy to sit there & feed the birds all afternoon. Dad did always have his little friends everywhere! :}

I know this spot! :}

Another hot spot for many in the family is Pt. Montara. There is a hostel there that they like to stay at. Now, not the kind of place most people would think to travel; but, it is known to be one of the top hostels in the world & there's just something special about this place. I always enjoy seeing a lighthouse, this is certainly a picturesque kind of place! I hear there's been great memories & they've met some wonderful people every time one of the family goes there. I still have to do it myself one day! Right now sounds like a great time....let's
go! :}

Mom off to take a stroll down to the beach

Meeting some new friends from England. I'm sure it was an inspiring conversation! :}

Mom proudly wearing the Leach Family Crest on her jacket that Laurie gave her

I think they made this table just for my Dad! :}

And for the final stop, and reason for the trip.....to see his family in Modesto. Here he is with his sister, Toots, which is always an entertaining time when these two are together! :}

The family came together to celebrate his 80th Birthday

Who knew this would be his last birthday? :(

Cousin, Allan, who drove all the way from Fresno that night.

Seamore, the balloon guy that was specially made for him at the restaurant. He loved it, he still had it by his chair at home when we saw him last.

Getting plenty of laughs in...which doesn't surprise me! :}

Laurie says he showed up in these glasses, pretending they were just his regular ones. Silly Pops! :}

Getting to be with his family is the best present he could ask for!

I sure wish I could have been there to hear their conversation! :}

Oh, I love this one! Glad Pops could have such a wonderful birthday!!

And back home to Utah they go.....

When you see Saltair, you know you are just around the corner! :}

And they're home!

Well that was a fun trip, wasn't it?! :}

The Football Season Winds Up

noreply@blogger.com (Shauna) — Thu, 03 Nov 2011 04:02:00 +0000

What a fun season it's been for Dylan & his team! They improved so much this past year & certainly played hard! I loved these lanyards they had made up, so we knew who all the players were. Our little guy looks pretty fierce! :} Sure proud of #56!

The only downer to having to be down on medical leave recently, was having to miss a few games. But, they still got their banners & I still got to see pics/videos (some of which I borrowed here...thanks Summer! :})

It was fun to run into our cute little friends again, Eddy & Solange's kids (and them too! :})

Dylan gets an interception!

Go Dyl! :}

Taylor runs in for a touchdown!

It just turned out that the final game of the season was against Murray, who we were tied for 1st place with. Here's Carlos running it in for the first score.

And Dylan gets an interception again...2 weeks in a row! That's my boy! :}

Nice catch Myrkanian! But, what's more entertaining in this photo, and the ones to follow, is Doug & his excitement for the game going on, as he's jumping up & down! :}

Let the playoffs begin!

Feelin' The Love

noreply@blogger.com (Shauna) — Mon, 31 Oct 2011 16:14:00 +0000

So, I mentioned being down on bed rest. Yea, well, just another stage of this crazy thing called life. Maybe it's TMI or more personal information than I should share; but, since when do I keep anything to myself? :} And why should we? We all have these things that happen, whether we like them or not, that we need to deal with in life. Why shouldn't we talk about it? I think many women, in particular, can relate. For numerous medical reasons, it was time for me to have the dreaded total hysterectomy. Well, dreaded for some (like those who want kids :}); but, not for some others. Sure, who likes major surgery, especially when it involves ripping your insides out? And, no one looks forward to the healing process (which is not very fun!). And not particularly looking forward to the medical bills either. But, for some who are now at my age (Wow, did I just admit that I'm actually older and now at another phase of life? :}), who are done having kids & have allowed it to do what it needed to do (and grateful for the 3 beautiful children it gave me! :}), what is the purpose of hanging on to something that wants to give you so much grief? No thanks! :} I've put it off for years due to time & money, which is silly really, as overall it's taken more time & money to deal with the issues (sometimes my stubbornness wins temporarily :}). So, the time finally came where I could wait no more! And interesting when we talk about timing, as due to the current madness of life, I really needed a break in many ways....mentally & physically! So, maybe this is why it was finally time! And we could talk about other fun issues of medical need & surgical repair; but, we'll go ahead & just let the subject be, and just laugh at "those darn things we just have to put up with sometimes" :} My purpose of this is not to look for sympathy, or whine about "Poor Me"; but, to remind us sometimes we just need to do what we've got to do to take care of ourselves! I know a few of you out there that need to do that!! (Hint Hint...take care of yourselves my loved ones! :})

So, anyway, I wanted to share the joys, and not so much the pains, of my useful time off. I can't believe today is my last day before I go back to work! Waaaaaaaaaa!! :}. And I needed that whole 6 weeks!! As you saw, I got lots of blogging done. This is very therapeutic, I love to share what's in this crazy head/life of mine! :} I have had the pleasure of going through many pictures & re-living some fabulous moments (and, and can't believe how much time has flown!!). This also included going through Lauries' 900+ pictures (ha ha...luv you sis, and luv how you capture the moments!! :}); but, how grateful I am, that she had these...1st her trip here in May, which all the more special now since Dad passed away; and then of her return for the funeral. I teased her when she sent the 1st batch to me in June, wondering when I'd EVER have time to go through those?! Well, how glad I did. Don't worry...I got my rest too! Trust me...this sucked the energy right out of me, I got lots of rest! (people believed it wasn't possible for me to do that; but, it could be done! :}). I also got a chance to write a lot of letters/notes. Whens the last time you sat down & wrote a letter? Some were tough letters actually; but, again therapeutic & I hope they know I just want to share/feel the love & move on from whatever it may be. Life's too short....no time to waist away, ya know?! :} But, I have to say the best part of my time off (OK, well besides the part of knowing that I will finally be feeling better & not dealing w/ it on a constant basis! :}).....was all the love I felt from my family/friends. I was in great hands! Everyone took wonderful care of me, and the house! (I could get used to not having to clean...ha ha! :}). I am so grateful for all the love & support around me! Thanks for all of you who kept the family well fed! (Dylan just wanted to know why he didn't always get to eat that well! :}). I received beautiful flowers/cards. I have to say my favorite was Kaley's flowers she got & made when she went to the $ store. How cute is that? Best flowers ever! :} ($1 for the flowers that won't die, $1 for the frame to put her picture in....smart girl!...and thanks Nicole! :})

I was feeling the love from my co-workers & Jazzerbabes!

I really enjoyed the flowers from Mom & Grandma, since it also involved an afternoon visiting on the patio eating creamsicles together! :} That was my "walk for the day".....loved it!

Jules' many Happy Sunshiney Smiles helped kept my spirits up! :}

Tracy's yummy treats were fun...Go Utes! :}

Moni's "Fun Bag of stuff" was good "bed rest entertainment"....oh, there's that darn puzzle! Ha Ha! :}

I really really wish I got pics with all my fabulous visitors too (you know me...hate to miss capturing a moment myself! :}). I was fortunate to get to visit with some of the best friends through life (and if not actual visit, good phone/Facebook conversations :}). I can not say enough how much it means to me to have the kind of friendship bonds I do. Thank you to all of you who were part of that...know it means so much to me! :} It's odd, just this past week, sadly some of these friends have also lost a parent. We can not be at "that stage" yet...NO WAY! My heart goes out to them, as I know their pain. What I do know is that hanging on to all the happy memories will help them get through this. I hope they allow themselves to laugh at all the quirks & funny moments they had....laughter is the best medicine! (well, unless you're in a lot of stitches, and you're watching a movie like Bridesmaids...ha ha, thanks Tina! :}). As we are now at 3 1/2 months since Dad passed away, I've been grateful to have the time to reflect on him, and what he's taught me. I'm not going to lie, I did miss getting his infamous birthday card (and Mom, I do love yours too!!...but, you know what I mean! :}). Now, I think of him all the more as we go into the holidays, which he truly loved...including Halloween. I can picture him now in his big yellow clown shoes, with his careful selected candy choices & intensely carved pumpkins, excited to see all the trick-or-treaters! He loved the excitement through children's eyes, and was always a kid at heart himself. I loved that about him!! It's going to be hard to not have him there at the holiday celebrations, or when he gets to give the kids their $ from the coin jar! But, I will go into this season feeling very blessed that I have these wonderful memories, and the opportunity to continue sharing these precious moments, and creating new ones, with those I love! (or at least as many of them as I can! :}). I will be grateful of what he helped create, and for teaching me the importance of what it all means! May we all learn from him! Happy Holidays my friends...may YOU feel the love!!

Enjoying a Fall Day With Beautiful Friends

noreply@blogger.com (Shauna) — Fri, 28 Oct 2011 05:24:00 +0000

For a while now I've wanted to take a drive down to see good friends, Chautel, Larry & kids, who live in Payson. But, life seems to always get in the way. Call it the stir craziness of being home more this month, or the desire to get out and see the leaves changing, or just the fact I'm missing my Telly! :} Either way, we just decided to spend a nice Sunday afternoon taking a little drive & fortunately they were free!

I like to call this the "Look, there's a squirrel" picture (that's me, always distracted by something! :}). But, I love their yard & the beauty of the red leaves!

They sure have a nice view from their house!

We walked over to the lake to feed the ducks & skip some rocks

I loved getting the chance to get our kids together. It's been a while!

Here's Celeste getting ready to sing for us!

...still waiting! Ha Ha :}

How fast these kids are growing!

It was fabulous to see them again. We are lucky to have such great friends! :}

Dylan snagging on the bagel bites

Kaley looks like she's up to something! :}

Sure love being with my Telly! :}

I don't even remember what was so funny here; but, it must have been good! :} I love the look on the guys faces though...I don't they know what to think of us girls! :}

Cute kids!

What a beautiful season! Glad we could soak up some of the beauty around them!

Another Birthday All Ready?!

noreply@blogger.com (Shauna) — Fri, 28 Oct 2011 05:17:00 +0000

OK, seriously.....didn't I just have a birthday? Don't get me wrong, I'm all for celebrating & getting spoiled; but, 40-something is just not quite as exciting as some other birthdays! :} I was just glad to get out of the house, as I've been down on bed rest. I didn't want to push it, so I just planned to go see Dylan's game & take it from there. What a fun surprise to get a text from long time friend, June, saying she saw me across the football field. Thanks for finding me June! :}

Lil' Ms. Thing being her cute self! :}

The man of the hour

It was a beautiful fall day, perfect football weather!

And they win the game big with a score of 34-0 (which is all I asked for :}) (and nice of the boys to participate in the pink socks campaign for breast cancer awareness! :})

Way to go boys!!

Proud of my boy! :}

Daddy & his girl

We decided to go celebrate with some dinner & time with Josh, and The Schaefermeyer's

The boys were a little hyped up from the big win! :}

B-Dog & Kyra

Silly Matt & Summer

Nice to hang out with them more. Summer is the BEST Team Mom...she's doing a great job! :}

Harrison giving the A-OK on the food.

I guess we were all feeling a little goofy this day!

And look who found us! :}

Kaley was happy to see her Grandma's too! :}

So, Monica had given me this puzzle to do while I was home. It was sweet to pick this one in particular, as it made her think of my Dad & his love for Hot Air Balloons.I started it the night before, thought it would be a nice way to have a relaxing weekend. Well, that's the intent of puzzles, right? I do love puzzles, and it did make me think of my Dad, as this is something we would do together. But, let me just say this....who thought a puzzle with all the same shapes was a good idea? Seriously! :} This thing drove me nuts!! But, I did survive & the darn thing is done now! :}

Even Mom & Grandma got in on it a little (though I didn't have the heart to tell Grandma the pieces she placed didn't actually go there...it was tough I'm telling you!)

Triple Chocolate Cake...yea, my Mom knows me well! :}

Geez, you'd think I like The Utes and jewelry or something! :} This collectible book is actually real cool....everyone in the house is enjoying it. Way to go Mom! :}

Happy Birthday to me! Now let this age is one of promise, hope & positive days ahead!! :}

Our Little Models

noreply@blogger.com (Shauna) — Fri, 28 Oct 2011 04:46:00 +0000

While getting a day at the salon, Kaley & Asia joined me to have some girl time. Since they got to get their hair done too, they decided to come home & play dress up & be my models.

Love this one...Best Friends for life!

Our cute little girls are growing up too fast!!

Home Sweet Home

noreply@blogger.com (Shauna) — Tue, 04 Oct 2011 04:33:00 +0000

If only walls could talk....oh, the stories they'd tell! Especially the walls in this old house! :} Here's where I grew up, in the Murray-Holladay area. Nothing fancy, but, your home is your home & all what you make of it. As I was going through Laurie's pictures of her recent visit, I came across these and it started bringing back all kinds of memories. Honestly, I can't believe we all fit in this house! With 8 kids (and 7 of those all being within 9 years of age), it made for some tight quarters sometimes! I'll never forget when we first moved from California. Though I was just a small tot, I vividly remember all of us sitting on this porch just waiting for kids to come out, so we could find out who our new friends would be. I would share my room with Colleen & Sherrie, as we were the "3 Little Girls". As teenagers, not so easy! :} I'll never forget the time they put masking tape down on the floor and told me I couldn't come in their space. Which technically left my only way out of the room, by way of the window. At least they put a ladder outside for me, ha ha! I was the baby for 9 years...so, I got plenty of being picked on! (Whaa, whaa...poor me, ha ha! :})

You never really could see the house too well, as there were plenty of trees & bushes covering it up

Though it would have been the perfect house to toilet paper, no one ever did. That was because it seemed someone was always up during all hours of the day/night! There was always a light on!

Glenn has really stepped up in trying to take care of it. Which is quite the undertaking...lots of repairs & things need to be done! Needless to say, lots of kids can tend to kind of trash a house after so many years! :}

This old willow tree has taken a beating over the years, and has since lost some big branches. We used to love to climb up it! The crab apple tree, well, that's a love/hate relationship with that one! OK, more hate; but, it is still what's been part of our home for many many years...so, I can't be a hater any more! (just those darn crab apples were always all over the place!). But, again, it was another fabulous tree to climb! :}

We would often sleep under this tree during the summer, which tells you how much the times have changed. I wouldn't think twice about letting my kids sleep outside in the front yard these days!

One thing Dad loved was having the happy little creatures all over the yard. Some of these moved over to Grandma's house while they were there; but, these are things we would always have throughout the yard...

Dad also liked to fill his flower pots out front

It's funny how seeing a place will make you feel so nostalgic, like the church at the end of the street. Granted not my favorite place to hang out (as my rebellious self found every way possible to avoid going once I had a job & would purposely take shifts on Sunday! :}), I think about the old Ward & what an awesome neighborhood we had. I can see all us kids now playing Steal the Flag on the church lawn here. I can also see Steve jumping off this very roof and lighting himself on fire; but, that's a whole nother story! :} I also picture sitting in church w/ Pam, Sandra & Melissa as we would tickle each other's arms. :}

Another place of "feeling at home" would be Grandma & Grandpa Tate's house in Holladay. As a matter of fact, it was our home for a couple of years, while they were on a mission. Mom & Dad had been living there this past year to take care of Grandma. I'm glad my Mom can be there to help her!

So, what other places give you that comfort of home feeling? Just being in your old neighborhood? Maybe you live out of state, so just being back to your hometown? You've heard me say that about Murray Park. I see this river (though awfully high this year!) and think about all the times we've waded in it as kids.

Seeing our mountains, themselves, also give me this feeling of home. Nothing like the Utah Mountains!

I can only envision somewhere out here is now home to our loved ones who have since passed. Who really knows; but, I will continue believing & having faith, when I look at the clouds in the sky, that somewhere out there is where Heaven is & when Dad said he was "Going Home"...this is where it is!

Fun with the Thropp/Katris Family

noreply@blogger.com (Shauna) — Wed, 28 Sep 2011 04:13:00 +0000

Recently, we were fortunate enough to get to spend time with long time besties, Jones & Lil' One. We got to celebrate another round of birthdays.....we've shared so many together! :}

Kaley was thrilled to get to play with Baby Zaylie! (the newest addition to Joe & Lizz, who were still pregnant at the 4th of July party)

Welcome to this world cutie-pie! :}

Zoey is a darling big sister too! :}

Cute girls! :}

It was great to see Monica's family again!

Gotta love Grandma Hazel!

Dylan is always so cute with the kids! :}

Great to see my girls again! :}

The Dew Tour

noreply@blogger.com (Shauna) — Wed, 28 Sep 2011 02:37:00 +0000

One of the best perks of Doug's job is all the great connections he has for events around the city. We were glad to take some free passes to this year's Dew Tour where the X-treme riders come together to show off their talents. We had a great view of the city from the VIP lounge on top of the Energy Solutions Center!

Kaley wasn't really in to it, so Bradon gladly offered her ticket up to Kyra :}

Oh, they are just so cute together! :}

Skateboarder, Chaz Ortiz, signing autographs & doing pics with the kids

Watching a round of the skateboard finals

There was all kinds of entertainment throughout the block. So, Dylan heard the DJ suggest throwing out some kind of challenge to win prizes....so he got them to find some kids for a dance off. Go Flex! Ms. Diane & Terry would be so proud! :}

This kid was a great little shuffler!

Flex showed some fancy feet & moves...

From there we hit the Greek Festival a few blocks down, with more free passes & $ to buy some yummy food (more than we could eat/drink, so we shared them with the cute family at our table). Fun afternoon in downtown Salt Lake City!! I love getting down there..I've missed the fun of it all since I worked down there!

Camping Bonko 2011

noreply@blogger.com (Shauna) — Wed, 28 Sep 2011 00:40:00 +0000

This year's Annual Camping Bonko didn't actually involve "camping" since not too many families could make it up this year; but, it did involve the cabin, the mountains, beautiful scenery & even more beautiful company! :} We attempted to have a 70's theme, despite some of us forgetting, not getting the memo, or simply leaving my Groovy 70's Costume home (darn!). But, Julie & Tina did their part & kept us entertained. We had our own Charlie's Angels (or maybe Carol Brady & Bob from the 70's Show :}).

Jules took advantage of the down time. She's been a busy Grandma taking care of her two adorable grandsons!

Deanna has been a busy traveling girl, glad she could make it! Meanwhile Tina has now made sideburns out of the wig :}

Our Tiffers chillaxin'!

You're such a great sport Julie! :} You looked FABULOUS in that polyester jumpsuit! :}

Suz & Lara (and the rest of us) got plenty of great laughs in! :}

Char enjoying the R&R

Love my Suzy-Q!

Kathleen thought we meant 1870's...ha ha. She's so cute in her Bloomers! :}

It was a beautiful night & sunset!

...until this bird flew in....

...and got me! Ha Ha! :}

We survived Girl's Night & the relaxing morning after. Tina, Julie N. & I were looking forward to seeing our families later that day. I think the kids were more excited! We let Bradon stay home since he had a busy weekend planned with The Alvy's.The rest came full of energy! :}

Crazy girls (just like their Mama's :})

Jennica & Tyler were excited to bring their new puppy, Molea Rose Nielson! :}

The were attempting to do a pyramid like my family loves to do :}

Instead they danced for us :}

...or just dragged their sister around! :}

....or just got downright silly! :}

Needless to say, we were entertained! :}

Then Mr. Comical decided to pull a little Michael Jackson on us

...or was it Erkle? :}

Silly Kids!

So, despite being advised to not post these pics...I just can't resist! Dylan thought he'd keep the entertainment going by putting on Kaley's clothes

That's our boy! :}

Since Tyler just looks up to Dylan (we tried warning him! :})...he had to join the fun by putting on his own sister's clothes!

Now Kaley is running off with Dylan's clothes....they are so easily entertained! :}

We had to do the traditional Crawdad fishing the next day. It was a beautiful summer day to be by the lake!

Dylan was the 1st to catch one

Hi Molea!

What a great tradition....love this time we get every year!! :}

Birthday fun with the friends

noreply@blogger.com (Shauna) — Mon, 26 Sep 2011 19:47:00 +0000

I freakin' love our friends! Here's a few of the Sista's celebrating another birthday for Suzy-Q! We have so much fun together, no matter what we are doing! :}

We are not ashamed to go along with this aging crap in stride! You can't fight it; but, we do a heck of a job trying! :}

And you're NEVER too old to dance! :} (But, fortunately we don't actually have pics of that! :})

Happy Birthday Suz! Sure do love growing old with you! :}

Coach Doug holds to his promise...

noreply@blogger.com (Shauna) — Mon, 26 Sep 2011 18:30:00 +0000

Doug promised the boys last week that if they beat Highland, which was known to be a tough team, he would have a BBQ for them. Well, they played hard & sure enough, won the game & earned themselves a BBQ!

Fortunately the other parents stepped up to bring sides. These boys can eat!! :}

He has a great group of boys to work with!

Good job Coach....looks like they had a fun night! Way to keep them motivated! :}

2011 Football Season Under Way

noreply@blogger.com (Shauna) — Mon, 26 Sep 2011 17:37:00 +0000

Another season is upon us once again. Bradon has now entered the world of High School ball, as he is the QB & sometimes, Safety, for the Sophomore Team. Doug wasn't sure he was going to coach again; but, then a Head Coach was needed for Dylan's team, so he stepped up & took on the role. We know he made a great Assistant Coach, running the offense; but, this was a big step & so far he's doing a fabulous job! I takes a lot of dedication & hard work, of which he has become devoted to. I'm very proud of him!

Our little man, the stud that he is :}

He's getting his turn to be QB as well

This has always been a fun family activity together! :}

The game agains Skyline...it was a tough one!

Re hydrating at Half Time

Coaches trying to wake them up a little (this was a sluggish game...fortunately they've played a whole lot better since! :})

I have, once again, taken on the roll as the "Official Banner Mom"
Back to the game...

Fun to see one of our favorite Ref's, old buddy, Darrell

Yea, attractive I know! :}

Our stylin' girl ready for another game, this time against Highland

What good looking men on the field! :}

Nice to have Jules join us for the game! :}

Bradon & Moses being the cool guys they are! :}

G-HOUSE!!!!

This was also the day of the Rivalry Game: UTAH @ BYU. Our poor friend, Matt, THOUGHT they were going to kick our butts (boy was he wrong! :}). This is when he was still smiling! :}

Coach Doug keeping the boys pumped! :}

Huge win...way to go boys!!

"Give it to me One Time!"

The boys work hard during practice! Go Dylan! :}

Another tough one, this time against Viemont

So far, 3 wins & 1 loss...off to a great start! :}

Rewind to The 15th Annual 4th of July Bash

noreply@blogger.com (Shauna) — Sun, 25 Sep 2011 19:17:00 +0000

I did tell you the blogs would not be in order, right? :} So, rewind back to 7/2 when we had the Annual Bash. One favorite thing is seeing who just might be in town this time. Or who might come to the party for their 1st time! :} We were thrilled that Colleen's boyfriend, Matt, could be in town from California.

I love this brother of mine! :}

And another surprise was Gayna (Colleen's best friend of many years, and Matt's cousin ) & husband, Tim, who were passing through back to California as well.

I LOVE getting the chance to reunite with old friends. This was the first time in many years of seeing old friend/neighbor, Candace Peterson. And fun to meet her cute daughter, Ryleigh! And always good to see Sandra again as well!

We had to do the water fun again (even if it took weeks to restore the lawn :})

"We pledge of allegiance to these flags...."

Our favorite Thropp/Katris Family! :}

And certainly our favorite Riley/Taul family! :}

Sandra's daughters, Alira & Talin, and niece, Cookie

Once again, Alex pulls through with the bouncy houses

Teenagers looking mischievous :}

Someone get a hold of my camera? :}

And once again, Daniella makes it back. This time from her new home in California instead of Florida! :}

Wow, the kids are all growing up so fast!

Great to see Varner again, and his beautiful girls!

Shane helping out with the fund raiser

My cute niece, Jazzy

Hankie

Good turnout as always....:}

Fun to have Lissa, Paul & Girls join us this year too! :}

....as well as Doug, Crissy & their kids....

..and Meg too! :}

Also nice to have some of the dance families join us! :}

The kids stay easily entertained...

Our Jazzerbabes have enjoyed this celebration with us for many years!

...as well as this other family of ours! :}

Cute kids showing off her face painting & tattoos

Watch out Doug! :}

Time to do the raffle

Sisterly Love :}

Whether it's blood sisters or not...Your Sista's are your Sista's! :}

Firework time....

It's always "Goofy Dylan time" :}

Another successful year down! Hope everyone had fun! See Y'all Next Year!! :}

Summer Parades

noreply@blogger.com (Shauna) — Wed, 07 Sep 2011 02:16:00 +0000

Another fun activity with dance each year is the Annual Parades they participate in.

First was the Westfest....

Chey & Tori made their own shirts. Looks like they had some fun with that! :}

Oh, Kaley sure loves her Dance Sisters! :}

Practicing in the parking lot

The B-Boys hyping themselves up

Ms. Diane making sure they are ready to go

Oakley & Tori...Kaley's dance friends from the beginning! :}

Keeping the crowd entertained! Man those Johnson twins can get up in the air! :}

Good job Kaley, and friends...you did it! :}

Then there was Round 2 at the Magna Parade

Danyelle is such a good sport to still do the parade, even after just having knee surgery! (though I don't know how the Dr's would have liked that! :})

B-Boys Rock! :}

And so do these girls! :}

Bradon trying hard to not be too cool, ha ha :}

Kyra & Riley being their cute selves

Kaley taking her turn holding the sign this time

Let the fun begin!

Ummmm...whew! Good job base! :}

Oh Ambree, just cause you have a brand new baby, think you get to ride on the kid trailer?! Ha Ha! :}

The Queen Bee being her cute self

"B-Boy Bangkok" doing his thing! :}

...and the crew to follow

Terry & Flex getting tricky

Just a few of the best fans in the audience!

Yea, we did it! :}

Once again, way to represent Dance Biz! :}

2011 Spring Dance Recital

noreply@blogger.com (Shauna) — Tue, 06 Sep 2011 03:47:00 +0000

Well, I did tell you they wouldn't be in any order, right? :} So, yes, another dance season came & went upon us. Kaley has now been with Dance Biz for 4 years (and Dylan 3). And as we all know, she sure loves to dance! :} I've said it before I know; but, I love that they first teach them to appreciate the love of dance, and dancing from their heart. The bonds of the Sisterhood is a beautiful thing! :}

Bradon is a good sport to always be for his little sister :}

The Adult class starting out the show with a bang

And of course, you've got to love the little ones! :}

One of my favorite dances of the year, as they show us "Hallelujah" once again. Cheyanne has grown into such a beautiful dancer, we're so proud of her too! :}

I also loved this Lyrical dance, "Butterfly", that Kaley got to do this year.

Kyra is also a beautiful dancer. I saw the look in Bradon's eyes! :} They sure are going to miss Ivy next year though. She has been a wonderful Dance Sister to these girls!

Katie always helps take good care of Kaley! :}

This cheer team has come a long way...I was so impressed with them this year!!

More fabulous dances.....

And more cute cheerleaders....

The performing teams doing their Breach Theme one more time, which was really cute!

The B-Boys (I barely saw the end of their routine since I was getting Kaley ready for the next one; but, by the noise of the crowd, sounds like they entertained them as always! :})

Go Flex! :}

Our wonderful instructors......

...and their assistants with them. :}

Their fearless leader, Diane...

...who is one amazing lady! :}

As she presents this year's scholarship to.....CHEYANNE! Yea, we were so excited for her! :}

We couldn't miss this year's traditional night at Leatherby's after the recital! (especially since this was the beginning of the friendship between these two! :})

Great to see the Jacketta's! I miss my PTA Days with Catharina! :}

Love our Dance Family! :}

Ha Ha...Oh Diane! :}

Everyone's little buddy, Issac

Once again, great job in another successful year Dance Biz! Now bring on the next one! :}