Sandgren Family

Grace's First Goal Today

2010-09-25T20:10:00.000-07:00

(Old soccer picture, not today)

Today was an exciting day for Grace. She has really taken a liking to soccer over the last year. The league we started with didn't really offer any coaching or direction and since I never played, I was no help. Last spring we changed to a different league and she was finally learning how to play the game and develop skills. Even though she loved it last year and the team had improved a lot, they still didn't win any games. This year they have gotten together a good team of girls and a great coach. So far they have tied one game and won the other three. Today the score was 5-0 and Grace made her first goal. Dad had to go on a camping trip last night and wasn't able to be there. Right before the game started she said "What if I make my first goal today and dad's not there?" I guess she could just feel it was her time. I told her I would just have to cheer extra loud for the both of us and that is what I did. After the game was over we all went for ice cream cones to celebrate and now I owe her a dollar. That is the deal we made with her and Tyler. We'd give them a dollar for a goal scored. Great job sweetie!

Hawaii 2010

2010-09-14T11:55:00.000-07:00

Okay, I know it has been a year and a half since I updated our blog. I keeping hearing it from everyone about my blogging inadequacies! My excuse has been my dog of a computer and how darn long it takes to upload any pictures. I have told many of you that when that momentous day comes that you see an updated post, it's because I finally got a new computer. Well, that day has arrived. I've been talking about getting a Mac for a year now and just couldn't pull the trigger, so Marty did it for me. He got me a new laptop for my birthday last week. I can't believe how fast it is!! It's amazing!! Well, anything would be amazing compared to my old computer. It really does move at snail speed. So, I'm still trying figure everything out and it will probably take a bit but I do love the Mac.

I'm not sure that I can recap the last year and a half so I think I will just start with the summer.

Back in June Marty and I went to Maui to celebrate our 10 year anniversary, without kids!! This was very exciting for us since we really haven't had an actual vacation without kids basically since Grace was born. We drove to CA with the kids and dropped them off with my brother and his wife. Thank you Chad and Karen!! I have to say, I have about the most amazing brother around. Karen was preparing to leave the following week with Sophia on a 3 week trip to Peru so Chad did most of the babysitting himself. He dropped us off at the San Diego airport and headed straight to the San Diego Zoo with the three kids, by himself! I'm not sure I am brave enough to do that alone. Chad, Campbell and Sophia kept them so busy they didn't have any time to miss us. It was great because we got a vacation and so did they. The only problem is they now want to move back to CA so they can spend everyday at the beach.

This was the view from the balcony of our room.

We stayed at the Wailea Marriott Resort. Finally we were

able to take advantage of Marty's occupation. The resort was beautiful!

Our side of the island hadn't seen rain in 4 months,

but the last day we were there is poured and

we were able to catch some beautiful rainbows.

We went snorkeling and swam with the turtles.

This was a big highlight for me.

Roadside fruit stand where we met some members of the

local ward who happened to know some friends on mine.

On the Road to Hana we encountered a man with parrots.

He asked who wanted to hold the birds. It was only after they

were draped across me that he informed me I had t0 pay him $20.

It wasn't the most comfortable experience for Marty.

The claws were digging into his scalp. Another time

he wished he had a little more hair on top.

Parrot kisses!

Waterfall along the way to Hana.

Oheo Gulch

Right after we got in the water we were kicked out due

to flash flood warnings. You would never know by looking

at this, but if you looked in the other direction, the wind was blowing

like crazy and you can get washed out to see with no warning at all.

Nathan's 2nd Birthday

2009-05-14T11:02:00.000-07:00

Nathan is officially a terrible two year old!!!

Gracie and Tyler decided that Nathan would like to spend his birthday at Chuck E. Cheese. I think they were right! Nathan had a great time, along with the rest of the family. We decided just to spend the day together with our little family.

Nathan riding the ever favorite clock chair!

We're glad to see that dad & Tyler's love for Monster Trucks

has also been passed along to Nathan & Gracie.

I think the basketball game was his favorite.

He could have played it for hours!!!

After Chuck E. Cheese, we went home for cake and presents. Nathan has fallen in love with the movie, Madagascar 2. He wants to watch it all day long. Gracie and Tyler have been pretty good about letting him always choose the movie, but I think they are getting a little sick of it. He will run up to me and say "Mooie, mooie!!" That is what he calls it. What he is trying to say is "move it, move it" from the song. He really likes Alex the Lion and has the lion roar down pat. So that is why we decided to make him a lion cake.

Wouldn't you know that the cheap "party favor" was

the big hit, for all the kids. I guess we should have saved our money!

Nathan got a new trike since dad accidentally ran over the other

trike just a few weeks earlier and broke off a wheel.
Nathan & Tyler with their matching Harley's.
Playing catch with dad!

Boys Playing In The Snow

2009-05-14T10:11:00.000-07:00

Tyler & Nathan decided to suit up and head to the back yard after a nice big snow storm. Who new the play set could be as much fun in the winter as the summer. Doesn't Nathan remind you of the little brother from "A Christmas Story" in his puffy coat. He's just missing the scarf wrapped a hundred times around his head!

At least the snow is a softer landing than the grass!

Snow angel anyone?

Look at that sweet face. How do you ever get mad at that!?!

Christmas 2008

2009-01-29T13:02:00.000-08:00

Yes, I am very behind and have a lot of catching up to do. Hopefully I will get caught up over the next few weeks.

Thanks to my friend Lindsay, we finally had a decent family picture this year for the holidays and I could have sent out Christmas cards, but it still didn't happen. I am really hoping that 2009 will finally be the year!! Gracie had a Christmas choir performance at the Joseph Smith Memorial building in early December.

Gracie, Rubee, Cameron & Lizzy

American Fork Children's Choir performance

at Joseph Smith Memorial Building

Keeping in tradition, we attended the children's Christmas Party for all the Marriott employees. This is always a highlight of the season. They get to sit on Santa's lap, make jingle bell necklaces, Rudolph candy canes, color pictures, eat ice cream, cookies, caramel pop corn, and candy from Santa. What more could any kid want!?!?!

Even Dad got to sit on Santa's lap!!!

This was the first year Tyler would go near the dance floor.

He really got into it and started break dancing.

He's got more rhythm than his father, that's for sure!!!

Gracie at her school Christmas sing a long.

Christmas Eve

Keeping with tradition, we had Nana Carol and Papa Reed come down for a sleep over. We made cookies for Santa and celery sticks for the reindeer. We added a little something new this year. We played the 12 Days of Christmas song and dance. The kids had a blast and it was especially fun watching Nana and Papa act out the song.

The kids with their cookies for Santa and

everyone wearing their new Christmas jammies.

Gracie & Kit with their matching jammies. The

one thing Gracie really wanted for Christmas.

Thank you Allie and Autumn for all the

High School Music paraphernalia.

Tyler with his new Monster Trucks.

Nathan & Mater.

Christmas afternoon was spent at Grandma & Grandpa Sandgren's with the whole family.

All the boys with their new Santa hats.

"One of these kids is doing his own thing, one of these

kids is not like the others!"

Go Utes!!

Tyler & his new Ute hat.

Nathan too.

All the girls sporting the newest fashion of flashing reindeer noses.

Gracie, Faith & Megan with their red noses.

Isn't Marty cute!

December 26th with Kris, Kiera, Matt & Jen.

Tyler's 4th Birthday

2008-12-26T10:05:00.000-08:00

Tyler is 4!!! I can't believe how fast he is growing up and becoming such a little man. This year Tyler decided he wanted to have a Spider Man party and thanks to Uncle Chad we were able to have it at Kangaroo Zoo! We love you Tyler and are so blessed to have you in our family. Happy Birthday T-Bone!

Tyler and his Spider Man cake.

Grandma Sharon made Tyler his own U of U pillowcase.
This was very difficult for her to even touch it
since it wasn't BYU. We are the black sheep.

Tyler was thrilled to get the monster truck he wanted.
"Thank you Gracie!"

Gracie, Faith, Austin, Brody and Tyler

Yeah! A BIG Lightening McQueen car.

Thanks Riley, Cole & Megan

Group picture of all the kids at the party.

Tyler coming down the BIG slide.

Tyler, Luke, Riley & Adam

Even Grandma Sharon got in on the fun.

I think this was the best part of the party!

Austin, Faith & Gracie being goofy.

Andrew, Riley & Luke.

The Animal Has Been Caged

2008-11-10T01:07:00.000-08:00

I know this seems a little cruel, but it was absolutely necessary and has been the greatest thing ever. Nathan started climbing out of his crib at 16 months. At first it worked to give him a little spank on the bum and put him back, but that only lasted for so long. This has now been going on for more than 4 months and he is just not ready for a bed. Plus he and Tyler share a room. So every night at bed time Tyler will come running out "He climbed out of his bed again." This has been happening 6-7 times each night before he goes to sleep. Then the REALLY bad night happened on Sunday. He literally climbed out of bed (after going to sleep) 20 times. The first time I found him half way down the stairs in the dark, crying. It continued to happen over and over. I think I slept about 2 hours that night. Even when he would fall asleep I just sat there waiting and listening for the next time he got out. I was really nervous he was going to hurt himself. So Monday morning I was on a mission to find a way to keep this kid in his bed. The Crib Tent was heaven sent. Now the whole family is back to getting a good nights sleep.

Halloween 2008

2008-11-08T19:14:00.000-08:00

HAPPY HALLOWEEN!!!

This year Gracie chose to be a witch.

But it had to be a "pretty" witch.

We tried to talk Tyler in to being something else this year,

but he still insisted on being a "Home Depot Guy" again this year.

Dad's keeping the Nascar spirit alive.

THE MONKEY MAN

The kids insisted that Nathan be a monkey, it IS his nickname

and all. Thanks to Riley for saving it for us to borrow.

Tyler and all his preschool class.

Reagan and Gracie at school. The Pretty Witches.

Cameron, Lizzie, Rubee & Gracie

They had their first performance for the AF Children's Choir.

It was freezing that night but they all did a great job despite

the chattering teeth.

Tyler, Dad and Nathan trying to stay warm at the concert.

Family Halloween party at the Livingston's.

All the cousins in costume.

The boys, getting ready for pumpkin carving.

Gracie & Faith carving together.

Gracie loves pulling out the seeds so we can roast them afterwards.

She also enjoys the slimy process.

Austin & Brody hard at work.

New Pictures of the Kids

2008-10-26T22:43:00.000-07:00

The kids finally had new pictures taken this year. It was Nathan's nap time so he struggled a little more than the other two, but I was pleased the photographer was able to get one really good picture of him. It was a little harder getting a good one of all three together but there was one that turned out pretty well. Thanks to Mel Howlett, she did a great job!

Gracie - Age 6

Tyler - Age 3 (almost 4)

Nathan - 18 Months

This And That...

2008-10-20T21:15:00.000-07:00

Tyler went on his very first preschool field trip. They went to the fire station and boy did he think it was great! It's been over a month and he is still telling people about it. Not to mention that every time we drive by the fire station he has to point out that was where he had his field trip and check to see if the fire truck is out. And right now that is a lot, since he has Itty Bitty Football twice a week across the street.

Tyler sitting inside the truck.

Tyler was able to take a special picture with

the firefighters since he was in the bathroom for

the class picture on the fire engine.

Nathan got to join in as well.

Gracie finally lost her first tooth back at the beginning of September. She has been waiting for this day for quite some time. All of her friends had lost teeth and she was patiently awaiting her visit from the tooth fairy. Little did the tooth fairy know that she was going to go broke in one week. Gracie lost her second tooth only six days later. I was surprised to see how much the price of a tooth has gone up since I was six years old. She received $3 and a special note from the tooth fairy. The money is long gone but the note has been taped to the wall and each time the tooth fairy visits she is required to leave additional correspondence.

Tyler's birthday isn't for a few more weeks but he really wanted a bike for his birthday. We figured that if we didn't give it to him early he might have a heck of a time peddling through snow. He still can't manage to peddle his triked too well (the peddles are out too far in front) but man can he get around on that bike. I have to admit, I was a little worried he wasn't going to be able to peddle it either.

Back in August Gracie had been dying to take off her training wheels so finally one Saturday I took her out for a spin. She did great!!! It only took about 10 minutes to get her to balance on her own. She had some great support and cheering from older, non-training wheel neighbors to get her on her way. She tipped over once or twice but it wasn't until last week that she had her first real fall. She was getting all fancy with tricks and standing up. We've been fortunate with some pretty good weather the last few weeks so we have spent a lot of time riding bikes. I think Tyler asks me 4-5 times a day if we can go ride bikes. I'm kind of looking forward to some cold weather so I can stay in the house and get something done.

Tyler and his new Spiderman bike.

Look! No more training wheels!

Nathan's got his bike too. Well, not anymore.

Dad ran over it on Saturday and broke off a wheel.

Nathan thinks he's hysterical when he wears

Gracie's helmet. Look Dad, it's pink!

Kevin & Tyler at Itty Bitty Football.

Marty hopes he's his ticket to the NFL.

Here they go chasing Tyler. The only problem is

he refuses to wear the flags so they just keep going.

First Day of School

2008-09-08T13:03:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was Tyler's first day of preschool!!! He was a little nervous about me leaving him but he did great and had a blast with his friends. Gracie started school 3 weeks earlier which made it very difficult for him having her gone all day long and not being able to go to his school. As for me, this was a great day! I now have two days a week where I can go to the store with only ONE child, yeah!!!

Tyler getting ready to go into Miss Mikki's.

Gracie, waiting for the bus.

Now in first grade, she gets to go all day long.

Her new teacher is Mrs. Stone.

Lizzy and Gracie waiting together for the bus.

Caleb, Riley, Adam, Luke & Tyler.

Of the 12 kids in Tyler's preschool class, 9 are in our neighborhood.

Tyler and his Spiderman balloon.

I told him that if he was good for Miss Mikki

and didn't cry, that I would bring him back a treat.

Well, guess what he asked for.... a balloon.

Shocking, I know.

Gracie getting off the bus after her first full day of school!

Messy Monkey Man

2008-08-27T13:57:00.000-07:00

This is what I get for turning my back on Nathan for 30 seconds. No wonder he is so scrawny, he would rather wear his food than eat it. When I first found him like this I pretended to be upset with him, he just gave me a dirty look. I couldn't contain the laughter any longer, he too thought it was pretty funny. This one always keeps me on my toes and he doesn't seem to be slowing down at all.

Hee, hee, hee! Look how funny I am!!!!

Here is Nathan and daddy on their Saturday morning ritual.

Nathan loves to help mow the lawn, and vacuum the house.

Lets hope it lasts into the teenage years.

Swim Lessons & T-ball

2008-08-26T21:51:00.000-07:00

Here are some pictures from swim lessons and t-ball this summer. I started the update and never got around to finishing it until now.

This is Gracie's 3rd year taking swim lessons with Jan and finally Tyler is old enough to join her. Jan and all the teachers do such a great job, the kids just love them. I was very nervous to see how Tyler was going to do with swim lessons this summer. He has always been a little frightened of the water, particularly putting his head under. We did two sessions at the beginning of the summer, but it wasn't until this last session at the end that things really improved. I am happy to say that he loves to put his head under. We didn't master any actual swimming but at least he is not frightened and will be ready next year to learn how to swim on his own. Gracie is a little fish and loves to swim. She has always done really well with swimming and now she is working on the different strokes.

Gracie waiting for her turn on the side of the pool.
Tyler giving a big smile while sitting on the "island" with his class.

Everyday we went to lessons Tyler would stand outside the gate and cry
"I don't want to go to swim lessons." Jan would come out and either carry
him in or hold his hand and go find the little plastic Bruce (shark from
Nemo) toys for Tyler to hold during class. As long as he had Jan and his
Brucie's,he was fine. The last day he told me"I love Jan, she's my best
friend." They formed a very special friendship, it was cute.

Tyler floating on his back with Jan.

Practicing his "Santa belly".

Gracie practicing her straight leg kicks with the paddle board.

Doing a little side breathing on her freestyle stroke.

Something she still finds to be a little challenging.

Tyler jumping off the diving board, okay, getting

thrown off the diving board. He did it one time the first week

and never wanted to have anything to do with it again.

However, dad came this very last day so Tyler did it to show dad.

HE DID IT!

Not real happy, but he did do it.

It was really sweet, the kids, teachers and

parents all cheered for him. It was a big moment.

Gracie patiently waiting for her turn to jump off the diving

board. This is her favorite part of class, after she does a dive,

she gets to do her "run jump" into the pool.

I tried to take a picture, but it was a big blur.

Gracie going down the slide, something Tyler was never willing to do.

T-Ball

We finally finished the T-ball season for Gracie and I having a feeling it was the first and last of her baseball career. We realized early on that Gracie was not really in to T-ball. She wanted to do it since several other kids from the neighborhood were doing it too. I personally have to say that I am glad to be finished with the 8:00 AM Saturday morning games. The very first game was wet and cold. Gracie complained the whole time she was cold and tired. The following week was then too hot. We never were able to get a game with a reasonable temperature.

Most of the time Gracie liked to look at her nails or play with her earrings rather than actually run after a ball. There were a few times she got in some good throws, but we had to bribe her with a quarter for each ball she got. I think she only earned about $2.00 for the whole season. Batting wasn't too bad, but she didn't like to wait for her turn. Plus, hitting the ball was a little easier than catching it. She had some great swings. I think it's just a little slow moving for her style. She has decided that dance, gymnastics and swimming are the things she would like to stick with and I'm okay by that.

Working to get just the right t-ball stance.

Look at that swing! Do you see the concentration?!?!

That is when the tongue sneaks out.

There's the tongue again!

Manning first base, gotta get that ball home.

Nice throw!

Gracie's 6th Birthday

2008-08-12T18:49:00.000-07:00

I can't believe Gracie is 6 years old. It really does seem just like yesterday she came into this world and started our little family. We've been celebrating for almost a whole week! The night before her birthday, uncle Chad took her out for a special birthday dinner at IHOP, just the two of them. On her birthday, Marty took the day off and started the morning by taking her to breakfast. The phones were ringing off the hook to wish Gracie Happy Birthday, but she was already off playing with friends and showing them her new American Girl doll, Kit. This is a gift she has been anxiously awaiting for several months.

We had our last day of swim lessons and it was a special treat to have dad come watch. Gracie and Tyler have done great this summer. Gracie is a little fish and an excellent swimmer. Tyler is slowly overcoming his fear of the water and has made tremendous progress. After we got home from swim lessons, Tyler wanted to watch the video I had been taking at the pool. During this time I was baking the cake for Gracie's party. Marty informed Gracie (mostly mocking) that mom spent almost a month making the cake for her first birthday. Gracie asked if she could see the cake, so Marty started looking through tapes and found the one of her very first birthday party. We had a great time going back and reminiscing. We also watched the day she was born and several other important moments of her wonderful little life. We are so blessed to have her sweet little spirit in our lives and love her so very much. Sometimes she can be a handful with her strong will and spirited personality, but we still love her anyway!

We had a Camp Rock party on Saturday with nine of her little girl friends. They were absolutely hysterical! I had made a stage for them to perform songs from the Camp Rock "Final Jam." But before the performing began we had to make them into rock stars. We had make-up, body glitter, nail polish, pink hair and lip stick, what more could you need. The girls had a great time and so did I. We finished up the party festivities with the Sandgren family Sunday afternoon with a small family dinner. I have to say, I'm pretty worn out after all of this. We finally took down the streamers and balloons today.

Gracie, I hope you had a great birthday. I love you so much!

Gracie & her new doll, Kit.

They now go everywhere together.

Ever since the movie came out, Gracie has talked about

wanting to have a Camp Rock birthday party. I made VIP

concert passes for the invitations. Gracie wore hers for days.

I had a hard time coming up with the cake for

the Camp Rock theme. The electric guitar seemed to work.

It ended up being a lot easier than I was expecting.

All the girls after getting on their "rock star" make-up.

Rubee, Gracie & Rebecca rockin out!

Lizzy, Cameron & Rebecca

Cameron wins for best rocker!

She rocked so hard until she gave herself a massive headache.

Bella & Gracie

All the girls with their gifts.

Gracie loved all the presents, especially the make-up!

YIKES!! 6 going on 16!

Getting ready for cake.

Gracie, her new Webkins & her cake.

She almost had them out in one blow.

Gracie & Lexi.

Still rockin' on after the party ended.

Gracie couldn't wait to put on her new nightie.

She was so excited to match all the other girls in the neighborhood.

Now we can throw away her ratty Cinderella nightgown!

Dinner with the cousins.

Tyler, Brody, Austin, Faith & Gracie

Thanks for Kit's dress and her dog "Grace".

That was the first thing she said after opening the doll.

"Aren't there clothes for her to change into?"

The 4th of July

2008-08-07T21:03:00.001-07:00

We decided this year for the 4th, we would take the kids to see the Balloon Festival in Provo at 6:00 AM. Tyler loves hot air balloons (all balloons for that matter, and kites, and hang gliders and so forth). We tried last summer to see the balloons at Antelope Island but they were all gone by the time we arrived. So the kids had been looking forward to this for almost a full year. For weeks, Tyler continually asked when it was going to be time to see the hot air balloons.

Unfortunately this day ended up not being so good for me. It turned out that I came down with a double ear infection, was terribly sick for about 8 days (3 days I could barely get out of bed) and didn't get my hearing back for almost 4 weeks. It was difficult but thanks to Lortab, I managed to make it through the 4th and went to all the planned events (balloon festival, Provo parade and the Miley Cyrus concert at The Stadium of Fire) . The next morning I went straight to the urgent care.

The family together as the balloons prepare for liftoff.

Nathan also really got into the balloons. He was a little

more expressive than Tyler. Tyler loved them all but was

a little overwhelmed and didn't show quite the same enthusiasm.

Marty & Mini Marty

We went to the balloon festival with the Wimmer's and the Jones'.

The kids were all troopers to be up that early.

Tyler & Riley together.

Cameron & Gracie together.

Tyler & Riley giving hugs.

All the Sandgren grandkids together for dinner at Grandma

and Grandpa's before heading off to Stadium of Fire.

Summer Fun

2008-07-21T21:49:00.000-07:00

Yes, again, I have become very behind on updating the blog. However, despite my lack of updating, we have been having a lot of fun this summer. Hopefully I will soon get around to pictures of the 4th, swim lessons and so forth.

Back in the spring when we finally got a nice day with some sunshine, a bunch of the neighbors took the kids to the park to enjoy the nice weather. Tyler is at that age now that he is rather difficult to get a half way decent picture. If he knows you are taking a picture he either wants nothing to do with you or he tries to see just how goofy he can be. I happened to have my camera in the car and thought that just maybe I could get some cute pictures of him if he was playing and didn't know what I was up to. At first it was still rather challenging and then he started to enjoy himself and I was able to get some cute pictures of the boys.

Tyler holding Nathan as they go down the slide. Not that Nathan

needed any help. He is fearless and usually goes head first.

Kindergarten Field Trip to the Zoo

Near the end of the school year, I had the fortunate pleasure of assisting in the chaperoning 200 5 & 6 year olds to the Hogle Zoo. We first started on the bus from the school to the zoo. That alone was quite an adventure, just imagine 60 plus kids all asking "How much longer?" all at the same time. Fortunately, Jenna and Lindsay were also chaperone's and we did get to hang out together. Jenna and I joined forces and watched to nine kids together.

Gracie & Mom on the bus together.

Hailey, Gracie & Abby sharing a seat.

The group of kids I was responsible for.

Gracie, Kevin, Cooper, Hailey and Caleb.

Gracie loved the penguins. She just did her report for school

on penguins (that mom researched) and made her first diorama (which

mom mostly made). How many more years of homework do I have?

All the kids posing under the elephant. Of course,

it is always a contest to see who can make the goofiest face.

Sariah, Kevin & Gracie inside a dinosaur egg.

Gabby and Gracie getting ready to perform their "stick dance."

Gracie and Mrs. Judd on the last day of school.

She really loved her teacher this year and will greatly miss her.

She started crying weeks before school was over when she realized

that Mrs. Judd wouldn't be teaching next year. She is expecting a

baby girl soon and will be moving with her husband to

New Mexico for him to start graduate school.

The 1st annual Heather Moor, Last Day of School, whipped cream fight.
Gracie did not like the idea of getting sprayed with a can of whipped cream.

She was perfectly fine with spraying others, but screamed

like a baby when someonetried to get her. Tyler was down right

terrified and wouldn't come near anyone.

Just a cute picture of Nathan in the bath I had to throw in.

Tyler looking like a "big boy" He's growing up so fast.

Tyler with his best friend "Cheetah"
There is nothing better than sucking those fingers and sniffing the tip of
Cheetah's tail. It doesn't matter that one sniff will make any other person
gag, but he loves it and refuses to let me wash away that wonderful smell.

Lagoon Day For Mom & Gracie

Marriott was doing an employee Lagoon day, but unfortunately Marty left that morning for scout camp. There was no way I was about to tackle 3 kids at Lagoon on my own, so I decided to make it a girls day out. Gracie and I had a lot of fun together. Some of the big rides were still a little scary for her (Wild Mouse, The Bat and The Umbrellas were some I got her to go on but she wasn't too happy with me). She says next year we'll do the White Roller Coaster and Colossus, but she had the most fun in the kid section and of coarse, riding the Sky Ride back and forth. She chose a few special necklaces in the "junk store" to remember the day together.

Waiting in line at Rattlesnake Rapids.

The boys playing in the back yard.

Nathan, Tyler, Adam and Luke

Adam thought he was funny standing over the sprinkler!

Tyler spraying the kids with the sprinkler and Luke with his "sword."

Gracie & Cameron running through the sprinklers together.

Taking a break for sun bathing.

Gracie & Megan together outside the theater after seeing

Kit Kitteredge: The American Girl.

Tyler's Shiner

2008-05-31T20:40:00.000-07:00

So last Tuesday I was at the gym in the middle of cycling class when the woman from the day care pops her head in the room holding up the sign with my name written on it. I'm not exaggerating when I say that 60-70% of the time I am at the gym, Nathan poops! I was in the back corner, so she didn't see me getting off the bike to come down and change him. As I'm about half way down the stairs I hear them paging my name over the loud speaker. The first thought in my mind is "Hold your freaking horses, I'm COMING!" I had to first go to the locker room and grab the diaper and wipes. When I get in there and wait for them to open the gate, the girl at the front looks at me and says, "Are you Katrina Sandgren?" I'm thinking wow this must be a really bad diaper. I answer "Yes, is Nathan poopy?" The girl right behind her who knows me and the kids says in a sad tone "No, it's Tyler, he's over here and he's hurt!" They are all apologizing to me as I coming to see him. As far as we can understand from Tyler is he went down the slide and someone must not have waited for him to get off and they kicked him in the eye as they came down. It really was quite a sight. It was SO swollen!! They joked how it looked like he had a third eyeball. It was also bleeding just a little bit from the abrasion of the shoe. Tyler was so sweet just sitting there. He looks up at me and says "Mommy, I got an owie." He wasn't even crying. The crying had only lasted a couple seconds when they first got to him. Gracie was on the playground as well and when she heard him crying she quickly ran to his side. When she saw him she realized she needed reinforcement and quickly went to get help. They said he only cried for a second and said "I think I need my mommy." His eye looked so bad that it was hard to look at him for too long with out getting nauseous and having to turn away. He reminded me of Slaw, the deformed creature, from the movie Goonies.

So needless to say, I was not able to finish my workout that day. I tried to get him to rest and take it easy but he wasn't interested. He was so tuff and brave, it didn't slow him down at all. I wanted to take a picture right as we got home but I had loaned out my camera and wasn't able to get it back later, but these pictures still show it pretty well. However, by the time I took the picture, it looked about 100 times better. Now as the days have gone by it has turned to every color in the rainbow. This isn't his first black eye, but it is definatley the worse.

Day 2
About 100 times better than day 1

Day 4

We have now moved on to all the colors of the rainbow but the swelling has gone down a ton, and he just got his summer buzz. The next day it turned blue under his eye as well.

Marathon Marty

2008-05-20T07:22:00.000-07:00

He did it!!! He finished and he is still alive, and actually doing very well. Saturday was the Ogden Marathon, Marty's first and he claims his last marathon. In about November last year Marty said that he was going to run a marathon. His family didn't really think he would do it, but after 16 long weeks of training he did. I think he decided he had to do it since he had told too many people and he had to save face.

He had to be in Ogden at the bottom of the canyon to catch the bus at 5 AM. We decided to stay at my mom's house in Bountiful so he won't have to get up quite as early. Unfortunately her basement is very loud and no one got much sleep. Marty tried to go to bed early, so he didn't even get to watch the disappointing final Jazz playoff game. It was about 30 degrees when they arrived in the canyon. They were all huddled around bonfires for an hour and a half before the race began. Then there was a major temperature change. Saturday was very hot, the high for the day was 87 degrees. Fortunately it wasn't quite that hot at 10 AM but the heat made it very difficult for him to finish. Despite the heat, he was still able to finish in 4 hours and 36 minutes. I'm so proud of him that he was even able to run 26.2 miles and to finish under 5 hours is a huge accomplishment.

Marty's parents, and two of his sisters, Erika and Andrea met me and the kids to help cheer Marty on at the finish line. We couldn't believe how hot is was just standing there waiting. There were several runners who couldn't make it to the finish line on their own and many who had to be treated by the paramedics for heat exhaustion. We were all so excited for him when we saw him coming down the stretch.

Marty has hung up him shoes and says he will never run again (we'll see). He is very excited to be finished with the long Saturday runs so he can get back to his yard work.

Everyone waiting at the finish line.

Riley, Erika, Nathan, Tyler, Katrina,

Sharon, Andrea, Gracie, Faith & Mitchell (in the stroller).

The kids waiting patiently in the shade with Grandpa Dee.

The family together at the finish line.

We Have Babies!

2008-05-07T12:51:00.001-07:00

Our baby birds have hatched! About 3 weeks ago on a Saturday morning I found a bird nest. I was doing some cleaning in the kitchen when I continually heard very loud chirping. It sounded as though there was a bird in the house. Each time I heard it I went to the front door to see if I could find the bird. As I would open the door I could see a little bird flying away. I thought we might have a nest somewhere up high on the front porch but I couldn't see anything. This happened 3-4 times before I realized the little bird had made a nest in the wreath hanging on the front door. You can imagine how surprised I was to find a little egg laying in the nest. We showed Gracie and Tyler the egg. They thought it was the greatest thing ever. It became quite a challenge keeping them from constantly opening the door to see the bird. I finally told them that they needed to leave the mommy bird alone or she was going to peck their eyes out. Aren't I a scary mom, but it worked! For four days the mom came back each morning and laid another egg. Each night before going to bed the kids would go to the front door and say "Good night little bird, good night little babies." Well, they finally hatched a few days ago. The whole thing is very cute but I have to say that the baby birdies are rather ugly. I'm sure they will look a little better once they get their feathers. I feel like we have been doing our own little science project at home. Gracie loves taking pictures to her class so they can enjoy in the fun too.

A Visit From Cheetah Princess

2008-04-28T21:35:00.000-07:00

Last week Gracie comes upstairs dressed in this lovely ensemble. I am preparing dinner when she comes up to me and asks in her most sophisticate princess-like voice "Excuse me Ma'am, is this your hotel?" A little confused I answer "Yes?" She proceeds to tell me that her name is Cheetah Princess and she would like to spend the night in our hotel. We were having some friends coming for dinner and to watch the Jazz game. Her next question to me is "When will your guests be arriving for dinner this evening?" of course, still in full character. So I play along and this continues to go on for a bit. A few minutes later she asks me where my daughter is. I say "She is playing at a friend's house, but there is a picture over there if she would like to see her." This was my favorite part. She proceeds to say "Wow, your daughter is very beautiful." I had to work rather hard to keep from busting out laughing. I'm glad to see she has self confidence. Only at age 5 is this considered cute and funny rather than arrogant.

Cheetah Princess has continued to come around quite frequent the last week. I must say that I quite enjoy when she comes to visit. Lately we have had some issues with Gracie throwing around a lot of attitude and getting super sassy. Not to mention that I question whether she is suffering from hearing loss or just choices to ignore everything I say to her. But it seems to be a much more pleasant environment when she and I are pretending to be someone other than who we really are. There is a lot less sass and a lot more willingness to be a big helper around the house and with the boys. Plus, I think I am a lot more patient when I have to be in my character. My roles do alternate between the Cheetah Queen and the Inn Keeper. I think life just must be easier when you get to escape reality if even for a moment.

Catching Up on Easter & April

2008-04-25T12:13:00.000-07:00

Yes, I have gotten a little behind on keeping our blog current. Now it's time to play catch-up. Easter began a few weeks early for us. Many of Marty's family members were out of town on Easter so we celebrate two weeks early. That was rather odd seeing how Easter was already very early this year (3rd week of March). Fortunately it was a beautiful day and we were able to hunt for eggs outside.

Nathan trying to eat plastic eggs. He LOVED the candy!

Faith & Gracie enjoying all their candy.

Riley, Tyler & Brody wresting together.

The same Sunday, we decided that Nathan's hair was just getting way too long and maybe we should give him a buzz. Since Auntie Erika is a pro, buzzing Jeremy and Riley once a month, we let her have the honors. She was also the one with the fabulous idea to give him a lollipop to keep him occupied during the process. This was the greatest trick ever! He sat still and content the whole time. He could have cared less what was going on, on top of his head.

The following Saturday, we held our annual neighborhood Easter Egg Hunt. The kids had a blast despite the cold, winter-like March morning. At least we didn't have to hide them in the snow. And whatever will we do when the neighborhood actually finishes construction and we no longer have an empty cul-de-sac.

Waiting for the rest of the kids to arrive, about 50+ in total.

Cameron, Lizzy & Gracie getting cheesy for the camera.

Luke, Tyler, Adam & Riley immediately dive into the candy!

The egg hunts continue as we actually hit the week of Easter. Buy the time it was all said and done, I think the kids had 5 Easter Egg Hunts. Since we had more than enough candy by that time, the Easter Bunny filled the eggs in our backyard with money. The kids thought that was pretty cool, so I think that may become a family tradition from now on. Easter Sunday was pretty mellow since we had completed all of our "parties" by this time. We went to church in the morning and colored some eggs in the afternoon. We continued to have eggs hunts on Sunday and several days to follow. The kids, Gracie especially, loved to hide the eggs and make someone go look for them. She and Tyler even did an egg hunt for Mom and Dad. And let the record show, it was a timed race and Mom won with the most eggs!

The kids dressed in their new Easter outfits.

Tyler & Nathan matched all the boys in the neighborhood.

It's official, The Children's Place is where to go for boys Easter clothes.

Nathan hammin it up in his new digs.

Gracie & Tyler's coloring "egg"stravaganza

Two weeks ago Gracie participated in the Spring Dance Concert for The Dance Club. Many hours of regular practice, dress rehearsals, tech rehearsals, etc. paid off. She did a great job and kept a smile on her face through the whole performance. She had a great time dancing to "Roller Coaster Ride" from Lilo and Stitch. The boys really struggled to make it through the concert. They made it through her dance and then Dad dashed them home. Even Mom and Gracie weren't able to make it through all 3 hours, even though all the dancers were fantastic, especially the older "company" dancers.

Gracie and her special flower bouquet.

Gracie, Jacelin & Regina getting ready back stage.

Nathan's First Birthday

2008-03-03T21:42:00.001-08:00

I can't believe that a whole year has gone by since Nathan was born. His birthday is actually February 16th, but we had to postpone his birthday party due to sick kids. We feel so blessed to have this sweet, happy, smiley and very active child as part of our family. He brings many smiles to all of us, even when he is destroying everything that lies in his path. Hence my frequent referrals to him as the "miniature tornado". He has been walking now for about a month and a half, and boy can he get around quick. The other nickname he most frequently is referred to is "monkey." It originated at birth when he had a little layer of fuzz on his back. Even though the fuzz is long gone, he still bares a resemblance to the cute little monkey, Curious George. His personality is rather fitting as well. He is always on the go, a little mischievous and quite the climber, particularly out of his high chair. This is how the party theme came about. Happy Birthday Buddy!!!

The cakes mom made before Nathan got to dive in.

Nathan and his very own self portrait,

in the form of a cake.

Initially he was very delicate and dainty.

Rather uncharacteristic. He kept looking around

to make sure it was okay to touch it. The first

move was straight to the M & M eyes.

It didn't take long before he became really comfortable

playing in the banana cake and chocolate frosting.

The fun had to finally come to an end once he
started throwing chunks of cake across the room.

What a sight!!

Don't worry, that's chocolate frosting

running down his legs.

Making the mess was a lot more fun than the clean up.

"Look how cute I am in my monkey shirt!"

Tyler,

Patiently waiting for the party to come to an end

so he can claim the giant Curious George

balloon he has been coveting for hours.

Gracie, Nathan & Tyler celebrating with blown horns.
Lucky for mom, they now come in the
wonderfully silent version.

Boys Night Out!

2008-02-26T12:52:00.000-08:00

It's official, my husband and son are "white trash." Marty and his brother-in-law, Jeremy, took the two boys to Monster Truck Racing. Tyler and Riley were so excited to go, they had been talking about it for weeks. For the most part they had a blast. Riley did shed a few tears when his favorite truck had a wheel fall off. He was extremely concerned and wanted to know if the driver was going to be okay. Tyler brought home the Grave Digger truck and has been carrying it around for days. Marty can't wait until Tyler is old enough to join him in Vegas for Nascar. Truly, I had no idea of Marty's white trash tendencies when I married him. Just kidding babe, you know I love you!

Marty & Tyler

Jeremy & Riley

Dunns Come To Town - Part 2

2008-02-25T12:29:00.000-08:00

So it has taken a little time to finish documenting the Dunns visit. Saturday was filled with lots of fun sledding and playing at Kangaroo Zoo. It was fun for everyone but Allie. She was so sick she wasn't able to leave the house. Dane had to be the single father and brave the kids on his own, he did a great job!

All the kids inside the mouth of the alligator. Really, Tyler was having fun.

Gracie and Autumn climbing the giant slide.

Tyler on the giant slide, his now favorite attraction. A year ago
he was deathly afraid of the slide. For months he would only
go on someones lap, but now he is a pro!!

Autumn enjoying the giant slide.

Carson and Tyler showing off their blue tongues

after enjoying some ring pops.

Family snow picture after sledding. Sorry Nathan, you had

finally gone to sleep in the car and we weren't about to wake you up!

Marty, Tyler & Gracie on their way down the hill.

Nathan, making his debut in a pretty pink Snow Princess suit.

Since he has no snow clothes, this was the best the neighbors could offer.

Hey, it's better than having him scream because he's cold.

Marty giving Tyler a push. This hill has twice the size of the last sledding

hill. We were a little worried that it might be too scary for him but that

definitely wasn't the case. He laughed and giggled the whole way down.

Gracie and Autumn sledding together. They liked going down,

but weren't so thrilled about the hike back up.

Carson wasn't so big on the sledding

but he sure did like building a snowman.

Here's the gang making the climb. Carson had the right idea hitching

a ride. Gracie just couldn't bare the thought of climbing, again!

Dunns Come To Town

2008-02-18T19:11:00.001-08:00

Our best buddies from California, Dane and Allie Dunn, came to Utah for our annual snowmobile trip. However, we didn't get to do it last year seeing how I was 9 months pregnant. Allie came alone to visit Nathan two weeks after he was born. The kids also were looking forward to the visit so they could play with Autumn and Carson. Autumn is exactly two months, to the day, older than Gracie and Carson is four weeks older than Tyler. Gracie kept telling everyone that her cousins were coming to town. They might as well be since Allie is like my sister.

This year we decided to go to Strawberry Reservoir for snowmobing. We certainly were not lacking in the snow department. In fact, it was a little too much snow. We got the snowmobiles stuck a few times because of all the powder. We finally decided it was just not possible to go anywhere off the main trail.

Many thanks to my niece Kiera for taking on the frightening task of watching all five children for the day. Marty and I have decided we better give her a break for a while or she will disown us as family.

The four of us on our way out the door.

The rental shop also had gear you could use. I saw these snazzy little

coats and knew it was a picture moment (I think I have seen that exact

coat in my mother's closet). When you include the head socks and scarfs,

we look like some seriously sexy Arab women.

All geared up and ready to go.

Dane, Allie, Katrina, Marty

The girls looking pretty while watching the boys dig out

the snowmobile buried in 5 feet of powder!

The boys taking a quick break after their hard work.

Marty, trying to read the map to get back, but it was

halfway covered in snow.

Katrina and Marty standing at the top of the mountain.
It was a beautiful day "total bluebird" as we learned from Jeremy.
However, it was rather windy, but nothing like what was to come a week later.

This is a yield sign on the side of the road. There was so much

snow up there you could only see a couple inches of the top.

Allie & I sitting on top of a giant pile of snow.

Me, reinacting a graceful fall which occured moments earlier while

running down the giant hill we were just sitting on.

The Blizzard of 2008

2008-02-17T13:09:00.000-08:00

To say the least, February 13, 2008, was a most memorable day. It's not too often you have these kind of experiences, so I figure I better write it down for history. The weather reports had stated that there would be some rain Wednesday afternoon and possibly turn to snow in the evening, so it was quite a shock when blizzard conditions appeared that day. The morning was so nice, that Gracie had only taken a sweatshirt with her to school and no coat.

As every Wednesday, Tyler had his appointment with Mrs. Matthews, the speech teacher. We left the house at about 2:45 when the snow was just beginning to come down. Luckily I remembered that Gracie didn't have a coat and took it with me. Normally I have a neighbor watch Nathan while we are gone, but I just decided I would take him with me. At the school, Ridgeline Elementary, the wind was really starting to pick up, but I had been there days worse than that. Tyler was crying as I raced the boys into the school. He's a little on the soft side and wasn't fond of the snow blowing in his face. Thirty minutes goes by and school is now over. Gracie normally rides the bus to and from school but most Wednesdays she likes to ride home with us. Fortunately, this was one of those days. The wind was now REALLY blowing, you could hardly see in front of you. I knew I was going to have to make two trips to get the kids to the car. I leave Gracie in the school and push Nathan in the stroller while attempting to carry Tyler. The school kids outside are crying and screaming as they run to the buses or wait for parents to arrive. I finally make it to the car and go back for Gracie.

As I begin to drive out on the road, I could hardly see the cars in front of me. I let the final bus leaving the school pull out in front of me. I figured it would be easier to see and follow. We had only made it a few blocks when the bus stopped. By this time I could see nothing but the occasional splash of yellow. The car was shaking from the wind. It felt like we were going to be blown off the road. There were now three buses in front of me that had stopped and were not going anywhere. It was so windy they were afraid they would blow over if they tried to drive, not to mention it was a white out. The kids remained calm through it all, but I was beginning to panic. I called Marty and told him what was going on. He suggested that if I could, to turn around and go back to the school to wait it out. That is what I did. I ran back into the school to make sure they were still there and we could get in. By now, my jeans are soaked thru, hair sopping wet and all my make-up running down my face. I was quite a fright. Mrs. Matthews saw me come back in and recruited some men to help me get the kids back in the school. They had the other students who were waiting for parents in the library watching a movie. The school is one of the Weather Bug schools for channel 5 news. They had all the equipment in the library. The winds were around 40 miles an hour at that time. They later reached as much as 75 mph.

Eventually they had all the kids go to their classrooms as some of the buses were turning around. Of course, kindergarten teachers have to be stocked with snacks for little tummies. Mrs. Judd brought out crackers, cereal, popcorn and more for us to munch on. Later the school brought around PB & J sandwiches and Scooby Snacks for dinner. Tyler was having fun playing with all the stuff and Nathan was like a minature tornado tearing everything apart and dumping things onto the floor. It was about this time that Gracie started not to feel well. Before long she had a terrible fever. The nurse was able to give me some aspirin for her. For about an hour she just laid on the floor feeling quite miserable. It's now about 6:00 PM and they are still trying to get some of the buses back to the school. The storm is only getting worse and 3 buses are stuck on the Alpine Highway, which was just closed. UDOT also closed the road going to Suncrest and the enterence to Traverse Mountain.

Marty was at work in Salt Lake and his Honda, Accord just doesn't do well in the snow. Fortunately his brother-in-law, Jeremy, called on his way home and picked him up. He has 4 wheel drive and lives in our neighborhood. They left downtown about 5:45 PM and arrived home at 8:00 PM. Taking the back frontage road they were able to get in Traverse Mountain. The police were not posted at the other entrance. Our friend Rob, had called Marty earlier to let him know how bad the roads were coming out of Salt Lake. He also lives up the street from us. Marty told him that the kids and I were stranded at the school. Rob told Marty he was on his way to go rescue us. It wasn't until 8:15 PM that he arrived at the school to get us, since all the roads were closed and by this time approximately 1600 people were stuck on Alpine Highway.

The other two buses made it back to the school around 8:45, but Gracie's bus was still stuck and we later found out it had broken down. One of the kids from our neighborhood borrowed a friend's cell phone to call their parents and let them know where they were. Fortunately, the parents were able to go find them and get them off the bus around 6:30. Jenna and Mike were the first parents to arrive to the bus. The kids were scared, hungry and needed to go to the bathroom. They had been on the bus since 3:30. Some of the boys were peeing into a bottle, dumping it out the window and passing it down the line. Think about the poor little girls, that wasn't even an option for them. The bus driver happened to be a 23 year old substitute that day. I don't think he's going to be doing that again any time soon. The kids on the bus whose parents weren't able to get to them were later taken to a nearby church that was opened up.

So Rob arrived around 8:15 PM and we start moving car seats and kids to his car. I went back for the final load, Nathan, and headed for a door near where the car was parked. As I open the door, instead of a pathway like earlier, there is a 4 ft snowdrift in front of me. I'm holding Nathan in his car seat and climbing through some alternative smaller snow banks when I slip and fall with him landing right on top of my. No worries, all is well. We leave the school at 8:30 PM and make good time going down around American Fork. When we get to the freeway it is stopped and not moving at all, so we think we will be tricky and go thru back streets. Well, that didn't work either. Everywhere we went there was a line of stuck cars. It was so weird that one mile south there was only a little bit of wind and no snow, but as soon as you got within a mile or two of the highway and along the mountainside it was a blizzard. I never in my life have seen anything quite like it. The drifts were 4-5 feet high on the side of the roads, cars completely submerged, a wall of snow 7 feet high that appeared out of no where, and my favorite, a small truck high-centered on top of a rock in front of someone's yard. The front of the truck was about 4 feet high. The man was still sitting inside the truck, I think afraid to move for fear the truck would fall forward. But, if the rock wouldn't have been there, he would have gone through the front of the house. At first all the kids did really well. Gracie and Nathan immediately fell asleep and Tyler watched a movie. After about 20 minutes, Nathan woke up and screamed for 2 hours straight.

Since the entrance to Traverse Mountain was still closed, Marty suggested that we go thru Old Lehi out to Saratoga Springs and take Redwood Road north to Bangerter Highway and come south on the frontage road to get in to Traverse Mountain. Poor Rob, we will be forever indebted to him for rescuing us and sitting in the car for a total of 4 hours, which 2 hours consisted of nonstop screaming by Nathan. About 10:45 both of our cell phones died and neither of us had chargers. Thank heavens he had On Star in his car so we were still able to talk to Marty. And if we hadn't had the GPS system we would have had no idea where we were since you couldn't see anything at all. We finally arrived home at 12:15 AM. We were all beat!!! They cancelled school the following day, since 65 students and teachers had to sleep at the school and weren't able to get out until almost 11:00 AM. We also made national news the following morning. Marty's mom called to let us know that it was on Good Morning America. We are all still recovering this exciting adventure and now all the kids are sick. Yesterday was Nathan's birthday, but we had to postpone his party to next week. Hopefully we will all be well by then.

Gracie's Kindergarten Sledding Party

2008-02-09T19:10:00.000-08:00

A couple weeks ago Gracie's school decided to do a sledding party for the kindergarten classes. I took Tyler and went to help out with her class. We had a blast along with all the other kids. Gracie's teacher, Mrs. Judd, was joining in with the kids. She also recruited her husband to come help out. They were just like giant kids themselves. The both of them were sledding down the hill, head first with students on there backs. Definitely a great time for all!

Gracie getting a push from Cory, Mrs. Judd's husband.

Rubee & Gracie

Gabby & Gracie

Gracie & Mrs. Judd

Riding on Mrs. Judd's back!!

Mrs. Judd with Faith and Rubee.

Gabe just chillin out on the hill. He wasn't too thrilled about taking pictures, however, he was more cooperative than Andrew.

Tyler was a little nervous at first, this was his first time sledding. He only wanted to go down with mom. It wasn't long before he got the hang of it and no longer had a need for me.

I Love My Crib!!

2008-01-14T08:07:00.000-08:00

It's not too often you find a toddler who loves their crib and refuses to get out. Tyler is now a little over 3 yrs old and still sleeps in a crib. Since he doesn't try to get out, we really haven't made the time or effort to get him a big bed.

Last week I was getting ready to take him to see his speech teacher. He had been napping and needed a few minutes to wake up. I left him in the crib, turned the lights on and told him it was time to get up. He was mad and put the pillow over his head. I went down stairs to continue getting things together. After another five minutes I went back up and told him it was time to get out and get in the car. He still didn't want to get out, but I pulled him out and laid him on the floor so when he was ready he could come down stairs. I pack everything into the car and go back up to his room. This time I find him back in the crib. He climbed in on his own and was trying to go to sleep, of coarse with his Cheetah and sucking his two fingers.

I'm Now A Blogger - Recap of 2007

2008-01-02T13:39:00.000-08:00

I decided that one of my many New Year's resolutions, in addition to the usual items of losing weight, not yelling at my kids as much and becoming more organized, would include an attempt to join the blogging world. I am so far behind on scrap booking I might as well throw in the towel. Several friends have told me this is a great and easy way to scrapbook and keep a family journal, so here I go and please forgive me, I'm still trying to work out formatting kinks.

Another year goes by that I didn't get around to doing a family Christmas card so I figure I will begin with an overview of 2007. It was an exciting year with several big family events. I started off the year with a large personal accomplishment. After 4 very long months, 100 plus classroom hours, and being very pregnant, I got my real estate license. I knew I had better get it finished before adding one more child to the mix. I took the test 2 weeks before Nathan was born. There are no immediate plans to work in the business. I just wanted the information for our own personal real estate projects.

February 16, Nathan Frank, joined our family. He was the runt of the kids, weighing in at 8 lbs. 3 oz. Had I not been induced 5 days early, he probably would have passed up Gracie. He has been such a joy for all of us. He is always so happy and full of smiles. We know he is going to be a tough kid due to all the abuse he takes from his brother and sister. Most of the time, it's too much loving. Especially Gracie, she is a great helper, but sometimes she thinks she's the mother. Now at 10 months he is getting a little more difficult because he is mobile and getting into EVERYTHING!!! I expect he will be walking in the next few weeks and then I am really in for it.

Tyler went through a few months of terrible 2's just after Nathan was born. First was the wandering phase when he would disappear in a blink of an eye. Twice in one week he wandered off and brought mom to tears and panic attacks. The second of the two was the doozy. Gracie was playing at a friends house. We decided to take a walk to go pick her up. He was standing next to me as I put Nathan in the stroller, which took all of 45 seconds. When I turned around he was nowhere in sight. I looked up and down the street, in the back yard of the neighbor who's fence was open, and everywhere else in plain sight. I called the friend to where we were headed to see if he walked there without me, but Laurie couldn't see him on her street. About 8 minutes had gone by and my chest was starting to tighten with panic, I went next door to see if my neighbor and her kids could help me look. As she opens the door, my eyes are now welled up with tears and I can hardly speak due to the hyperventilating. We all start yelling Tyler's names and heading in every direction. A few minutes later I can hear Laurie calmly calling Tyler's name. I hear her say, "Stay right there, I'm coming." Tyler is in the process of scaling down her 20 foot rock wall. Half way down the hill is a house who's yard connects to Laurie's backyard/rock wall. He had decided to take a short cut. Fortunately Laurie's 2 year old came to the kitchen for a snack. As he was sitting at the table, he says to her " I go play with Tyler, he's on my rocks." This is when she sees him trying to climb down. It was after this day I almost put the kid on a leash. I think he realized that he almost gave mom a heart attack and that was the last disappearing act he performed.

We also went through the Dump Everything On The Floor phase with Tyler. You could pretty much count on him daily to dump out a full bad of pretzels, Chex mix (followed by stomping and mashing into the carpet), a box of cereal or a bag of powdered sugar all over the floor. Then he started into toothpaste on the carpet, lotion on the couch and the grand finale was .... more than half a bottle of vegetable oil dumped on the family room carpet. After multiple cleanings and not much change, the spot had to be replaced and patched. Thank you Tyler! All of the instances occurred during the 2 minutes it took to run upstairs to change a diaper or for myself to use the bathroom. I swear he watched me like a hawk and the moment I left the room he jumped into action. I dreaded nothing more than to hear Gracie yell "Moooooooom, come look at what Tyler did!" Fortunately for him, he is a really sweet kid and was very good for the portion of his life leading up to that time. This phase was now over, for the most part.

The summer was fun and filled with lots of time at the swimming pool. Gracie is practically a mermaid, thanks to her swim teacher, Miss Jan. Our gym has a great kid friendly pool, with water slides - Gracie's favorite, and I was able to send Nathan to the daycare. Otherwise I would never be able to take the two on my own. We really enjoyed the pool, up until the epidemic of Cryptosporidium hit Utah. Our pool was infected and the whole family went swimming on Gracie's birthday. All I can say is that is about the worst thing anyone can experience. The entire family had it. Gracie wasn't affected too bad but Tyler was very bad and poor Nathan. We couldn't even get the prescription for anyone but Nathan because every pharmacy in the state was out of it. And Nathan got the very last bottle that was available at all for more than a week. Marty was in Chicago when it hit him. I think the plane ride home was the worst of his life. He left again two weeks later and that was when it hit Nathan. He cried and cried from the pain of the gas and stomach cramping. Every night it would get really bad from about 7:30 PM until 5:00 AM when he would finally be so exhausted he would fall asleep for a couple hours. I had slept about 7 hours in a 72 hour period. After the second day with Nathan, I took him to the doctor and I had to do the stool sample test so we could diagnose him. That was the worst science project I had ever done. It required using Saran wrap in the diaper to catch the diarrhea, enough said. Two more days went by and then we got the positive test results back. Since Nathan was so little, they were very concerned about him becoming dehydrated and losing weight. Fortunately things turned around pretty quickly after starting him on the prescription. Marty returned home that week on a Thursday night. It was the next morning that it became my turn. Marty had taken that day off so we could have a long Labor Day weekend. All I can say is "Thank the Lord." If he wouldn't have been home, I never would have made it. I was down for the count for 3 days. I had gotten it BAD! This all occurred in August and we have still not be back to the pool, now being January. Marty has vowed never to swim in a public pool again.

August 7th, Gracie turned 5 years old. She had a fabulous birthday party at Kangaroo Zoo thanks to Uncle Chad's new business venture. This has been a big year for her. In September she began Kindergarten at Ridgeline Elementary. Her favorite part is riding the bus with all the kids in the neighborhood. She really enjoys school and has become quite the reader. The last two weeks over Christmas vacation has been very hard for her. She asks every day "How many more days until I go back to school?" We'll see if she has the same tone when she is in high school. I can't believe how much she has grown up this year. She has jumped into the craze over Hannah Montana and High School Musical which has brought up the occasional questions about boyfriends and kissing, which mom is just not ready to be discussing with a five year old! She also tells me about the games they play at recess, boy or girl tag. And some times they try to get each other to kiss. YIKES!!! I guess everyone plays kissing tag when they are in Kindergarten, I know I did. I think it is 1st grade when the opposite sex develops cooties. She also started writing Grace on all her school work. So her teacher asked her if she preferred to be called Grace instead of Gracie. Her reply was "Yes, Grace is much more beautiful." Now she tells us either will be just fine. Back in November I took her to the Hannah Montana concert. Our seats were on the floor for the taping of her new 3D concert movie. I was not willing to pay the price people were charging for the tickets. But the morning of the concert, Marty got a call from the crew, who was staying at the hotel, to see if he would like tickets. It was a really fun experience for the two of us.

The project of finishing our basement kept me busy for most of September and October. I handled all the price quotes and contractors on my own. The large involvement I had in the building of our spec house helped me to have some idea of what I was doing. I kept on top of all the contractors and amazingly enough, it was finished in 7 weeks. It has been a great addition to the house. We have moved the toy room down there so we have an official guest room with an actual bed. The pull out couch in the family room isn't the most glamorous accommodations for our guests. So anyone who wants to come visit, we are open for service. We also included a large open family room/ theater room. Marty and I decided to get an early Christmas present, for the next 5 years, a 60 inch High Def flat screen. It has been fun for watching movies with the family and games for Marty and his buddies.

November 4th, Tyler had his 3rd birthday. The obsession for balloons and balls still holds strong. He wanted me to make his cake in the shape of balloons and the best presents he received was the jumbo size Lightening McQueen Mylar balloon and a bag of 100 little plastic balls. Marty believes that when Tyler grows up his job will be to hold the ropes of the giant balloons in the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade. I am still working on trying to potty train this kid but boy is it a challenge. I've enjoyed the time we get to spend together one on one when Gracie is in school, but he is always so excited for her to get home. He is such a sweet boy with a fun personality.

Marty is still working for Marriott and in his free time he enjoys being a slum lord. The rental properties have consumed so much of his free time. We have had just about as much as we can take and there are too many stories to even talk about. We have listed the duplex for sale, so anyone wanting to purchase some real estate, give me a call. Marty has informed us that he is going to run the Ogden Marathon in May. He has told so many people that now I really do believe he will do it just to save face. I guess he will start "training" here in the next few weeks.

The holidays have kept us busy with all the regular holiday stuff. Gracie started taking dance again this summer and had her Christmas performance of The Polar Express. She has really enjoyed taking dance with her friend Regina. They both did such a great job for the performance. And this time she remembered to smile and have fun. The day before the performance we got out the video camera and watched her performance from two years ago. It was a lot of fun to watch the past years of video footage. She was only 3 years old and was concentrating so hard. She knew her dance and did all the moves just right, but she sure looked mad.
We also were able to visit Santa Claus a few times. The first was the primary Christmas party and all the kids really enjoyed talking and sitting with Santa. I was able to get some really great pictures of Nathan smiling from ear to ear. But about a week later he decided he had changed his opinion of Santa. We went to the Christmas party the hotel holds for the associates' children. This time Nathan was absolutely hysterical. The moment he looked at Santa he puckered up and started to scream at the top of his lungs. This was the first year that Tyler wasn't terrified of Santa. He was thrilled to sit on his lap and tell him he wanted a "choo choo cain for Crica." We are still working on Tyler's vocabulary. He is improving everyday, but some people who don't speak "Tyler" still have a little trouble understanding him. One of the special things we were involved in this Christmas was a rather large donation made by our neighborhood to Primary Children's Medical Center. A group of friends decided that this year rather than giving each other gifts and doing the typical neighborhood gifts , we would take that money and donate it to a charity where it could actually do some good. The group grew and grew and before long we decided to include the entire community of Traverse Mountain. Each neighborhood held their own open house, my neighborhood gathered here in our home, to have treats, mingle and to make an anonymous donation. We were excited to hear from Primary Children's Medical Center that our community donated over $5,000. If felt really great to be apart of such a wonderful thing and to see the giving hearts of all these people. I would love to be able to continue this from year to year.

Christmas is becoming more and more fun each year as the kids get older. Christmas morning was so much fun to see the kids faces and excitement over the gifts Santa had brought. Gracie even received a special phone call from Santa on Christmas Eve to confirm that she was on the "nice list", just by the skin of her teeth, and would be receiving her presents. I always love the holidays to remind us of all the blessings and wonderful things we have received. I'm so grateful for all my family and friends. May we all continue to be blessed in the next year.