The Reed Family

Christmas Eve

2012-01-10T13:26:00.000-08:00

Our "living nativity" We sang "Away in a Manger" and read the Christmas story in Luke.

The kid's opened their new Christmas pajamas. They are now ready for Santa!

Want to see more about our Christmas eve? Visit my sisters website /http://joshandsharsti.blogspot.com/

It's begining to look a lot like Christmas!

2012-01-09T13:12:00.000-08:00

Santa's Helpers!

Decorating the kid tree. Yes, it's a fake! I never thought I would own a fake Christmas tree!

Santa's elves making cookies.

Making Christmas cards for their teachers,

Bayley making the pretzel rods dipped in chocolate for their teacher gifts.

Finished gifts.

Family photo shoot! We used a timer it's so much more fun that way. All the excitement of having to get into position before the camera takes the picture! We did have one casualty though. Soon after taking this picture Ruby grabbed a stocking and the stocking holder fell on the bridge of her nose splitting it open. We went to the ER and got it glued back together so she has a very light scar on the bridge of her nose.

Maxwell

RubyMae

Bayley

Brittyn

My Girls

Chritmas Tree Hunting

2012-01-08T18:58:00.000-08:00

We normally go to Snowshoe in Orting and cut down our fresh Christmas tree. This year we are 16 hours away from our favorite Christmas tree farm. So we had to hunt for a place to cut down trees. We did find a little farm with about forty "Christmas trees". The trees we found were more blue than green and had prickly barbs. We had a great time and we were able to carry on our day after thanksgiving tradition.

Fall

2012-01-08T18:46:00.000-08:00

Just some pictures we took this fall. We really like this park. We go and let the kids walk around on warm Sunday afternoons.

Carving pumpkins!

Bayley and Brittyn were bumble bees for halloween.

Ruby was a scary vampire and Max was a ninja.

Cheese!

Dinosaur Park

2012-01-08T18:22:00.000-08:00

Ruby

Skeletons catching a ride on a dinosaur skeleton.

Ike, Max, and Ruby digging for bones.

Tyler

Max

Brittyn

Exploring our surroundings. Fun day!

Max Earns His Bear and Turns 10!

2011-09-16T12:43:00.000-07:00

We are so proud of our big cub scout. He works hard and really enjoys it!

Max choose Sponge bob as his theme this year. He wanted a Sponge bob. So, I gave it my best.

Max's best friends from school Emerson and Richie came. We went swimming and broke a pinata. Fun! It was fun to be reminded of how little boys play. They were like huge puppies! Wrestling all over the house!

Max got to light his own candles!

Washington Trip and 4th of July!

2011-09-14T13:27:00.000-07:00

It was a very long drive for the two year old.

Getting in some cousin time in Grandma's back yard.

This is Brittyn the octopus. Native to Point Defiance Zoo

Pointe Defiance Zoo with cousins Danika and Tate.

Can't leave Owen's beach without throwing some rocks.

Some Russian tourists were freaking out that my kids were swimming in the Puget Sound. They said it is to cold to be swimming. I guess they didn't know it was summer, and 70 degrees is plenty warm if your a native of the Northwest.

Brittyn getting down and dirty at Grandma & Grandpa Reed's house.

Bayley and Natalie swimming at Janeice's next door neighbors house in Boise.

Yes! This face pretty much sums up our 4th of July. She didn't like the fireworks.

My two favorite ladies in the Universe!

Bayley trying on my friends homemade vintage costume. The picture doesn't do it justice! Can you say Jane Eyre?

Ruby Loses Her First Tooth!

2011-09-14T12:37:00.000-07:00

Look at the roots on those things!

Or maybe I should say she got four pulled! They are still her first! Ruby came up to me the other day and showed me her row of teeth growing in behind her baby ones. Can you say Jaws? I took her to the dentist and he pulled all four.

Bayley Turns 13!

2011-09-14T12:22:00.000-07:00

Bayley had a friend party for her birthday this year. Fun was had by all!

Waterfall

2011-09-14T12:15:00.000-07:00

Brittyn getting cozy after a long hike up.

Can you find Max?

Bayley Exploring

Chillin

Max and RubyMae finding treasures along the way.

Brittyn must hike with her hands in her pockets. It looks so much more mature.

We love to hike as a family. So we went on one of our most favorite we have discovered. We don't know the name. We just call it the Waterfall hike. Brittyn did really well this time. Hiking some of the way herself.

Brittyn Turns Two!

2011-09-14T12:04:00.000-07:00

Brittyn had a Dora Party to celebrate her big day! We had family over and played some party games. Like pin the star on Dora and treasure hunt!

Jackson Hole Wyoming

2011-09-14T11:52:00.000-07:00

Mom and Dad with grandkids. RubyMae below.Mom & Daryl Twinners

Mom, Sisters & I.

Max & Tyler

My little bro Tanner cookin up some breakfast.

The Reed Family

Brittyn & Tyler

The Knighton Family

So my Dad has this amazing boss, who has this amazing cabin in Jackson Hole. So we had an amazing time hanging out with my amazing family! So much fun. I know I haven't blogged in a while so this actually took place during my children's spring break. If you would like to see more Amazing pictures of our weekend go herehttp://thestevesons.blogspot.com/2011/04/cabin-in-jackson.html This is my amazing sister in law's blog.

Soccer!

2011-05-19T20:29:00.000-07:00

We did lots of soccer this year. It was fun cheering on the kids. They loved it! Daryl was the assistant coach for Max's team this year.

Sistas

2011-05-19T20:23:00.000-07:00

Yeah. I got pretty sisters. Where the heck is Sharsti? Oh. Thats right. All the way down in Draper!!!

Happy Birthday Daryl!

2011-05-19T20:17:00.000-07:00

Daryl turned 36...in March and we had a huge party and Leah made him the most awsome cheescake ever.

Odds and Ends

2011-03-12T13:59:00.000-08:00

RubyMae showing off her birthday pin at school.

Ruby's All About Me poster she painted/colored/bedazzled for school.

Brittyn getting her hair done for church.

RubyMae is "6"!

2011-03-12T13:32:00.001-08:00

Ruby and Ike playing at Family Fun Center.

Ruby turned six the weekend we were supposed to be moving into our new home. She really wanted a friend party but I knew that would be crazy trying do a big party when everything is packed in boxes and stuff. So we had a little family party and I think it turned out pretty great.

Tyler and Brittyn in the bounce house at the family fun center!

Ruby got to decorate some of her own cupcakes.

What is your favorite color? Pink

What is your favorite book? The Three little pigs

What is your favorite thing to do? Color

What is your favorite song? X-files theme song

What do you want to be when you grow up? Doctor

Where is your favorite place to go? Family Fun Center

What is your favorite food? Spaghetti and Meatballs

What is your favorite show? Scoobey Doo
what is your favorite toy? Fur real friend puppy

What is your favorite thing to do outside? Play on the dirt pile

Who are your bestest friends? Savanah, James, Josh, Caitlyn and Chloe

Ruby's school is a "Healthy Eating" School. So we can't bring in cupcakes so I made these and put them on play dough for her to pass out to her school mates. I put them on a cookie sheet just for fun.

I am in LOVE with...

2011-03-12T13:11:00.000-08:00

IKEA! I know what you are thinking. Self assembly. Cheap materials. Not in this case. You have to believe me! I have been searching for the perfect bar stools and guess where I found them? I know. They are absolutely perfect for my space the other stools I was considering where bulkier and more masculine. I wanted something a little more feminine for this space and so here they are! Daryl did have to assemble them but he said they seemed really sturdy...we will see what four kids do to them. :)

House Pictures

2011-01-16T09:10:00.000-08:00

Maxwell's Room

Play house in the basement.

Pantry and eating nook.

Master Bedroom

Basement Bath

Living Room

Master Bath

Laundry

Bedroom closet in Bayley's Room

Powder Room

MORE house progress!

2011-01-16T08:49:00.000-08:00

The "Blue House". That is what our neighbors are calling our new house. Our neighborhood is full of earth tone house colors. Which looks really great. I am just not a beige type of person and when I pull up to my "Blue House" I smile. I can't stop. I know in the Seattle area these house colors are common. That is partly why I chose to bring a little of home with me.

The stairs right when you walk in.

Mud Room off of the garage.

Kitchen

Family Room

Kitchen

2011-01-16T08:42:00.000-08:00

Kitchen pictures before we left for Christmas.

Slim Jim

2010-12-09T20:32:00.000-08:00

When RubyMae is good at the grocery store she gets a prize when we are at the checkout. Today she decided she really wanted to try a Slim Jim! I tried to talk her out of it...but you know RubyMae. The Checker and I just laughed and I said ok. She opened the Slim Jim when we got in the car. To my surprise she said "this is really good Mom can I share some with Brittyn?"
Before I could say anything Brittyn was gnawing off a piece of the nasty peperoni stick. They both loved it! Shared it all the way home. Made my day:)

Photo Shoot!

2010-12-09T19:51:00.001-08:00

My awsome sister Sharsti met up with us downtown to take a few family pictures. Here are just a few of the lovely pictures she took. I just have to say... SISTERS ROCK!

New House Pics...

2010-12-09T18:57:00.001-08:00

Ha! If you thought I was going to post pictures of the new house...you are absolutley right! I couldn't resist!

Our NEW house number!!!

Our pillars are in!

Shoe bench in mud room.

Walk-in Pantry.

More pics of the pillers.

Stairs.

House without the siding...

House with the siding!

SNOW is TOtaLLy AWsoME!

2010-11-26T16:45:00.001-08:00

Hey!Dad!

2010-11-26T09:39:00.001-08:00

Our Master shower and Bath! I think we are so ready to move in...

These pictures are for you Dad. Sorry, I haven't been keeping up with the construction stuff:)

We have tile in our kitchen!

On our fireplace!

In the Entryway!

Look! Some of our Brick is on the Outside!

Bayley Hits the Stage!

2010-11-26T09:27:00.000-08:00

From L to R. Bayley, Bobbie, Sally, Sarah, Morgan,and Brooklyn. Bayley was in the production "He is my Savior"
She had lots of fun. Bayley was a Jerusalem girl. We loved going to see her preform.

Pretty impressive stage setup. If I do say so myself.

Caramel Apples!!!

2010-11-14T15:52:00.000-08:00

I forgot to take pictures of our fun evening a while back. I am so lucky that I have a sister that is much more on top of things so go check out her blog at http://joshandsharsti.blogspot.com/

Pumpkin Walk

2010-10-28T19:51:00.000-07:00

In our cute little new town they have an annual Pumpkin walk. What is a Pumpkin walk? New to me too. People and businesses carve hundreds of pumpkins in all different themes and set them up around the park. We saw everything from Harry Potter characters to Halo and even Temples and Thomas S. Monson. Our long time friends Josh and Rebekah invited us to go with them. Me and my girls. Bayley said she is dressed as a Muggle. Ruby is a blue fairy and Brittyn is a frog.

Anna and Micheal F.

Most of the kids posing.

More of our group.

Another crazy shot of silly kids.

More House Pics

2010-10-28T19:29:00.001-07:00

Max's Room with the window seat.

Really bad picture of view from the babies room.

Master bedroom view of the lake and the island.

My kitchen nook with the walk-in pantry.

The arch that separates the Kitchen and Family room. You can see the beginnings of the corner fireplace.

Little inset in the upstairs hallway.

Garages.

Look! Some of our windows are in!

Our house, is a very,very fine house...

2010-10-27T17:51:00.001-07:00

...But it's a little bit drafty!
These pics are for you Dad! Enjoy!

Park City!

2010-10-10T20:42:00.000-07:00

All the girls including Mom.

My Dad going down the Alpine Slide. This was the coolest thing we did. You ride the ski lift up to the top of the Mountain and then get on these little wheeled carts and go all the way down the mountain. Max rode with me and we flew! It was an awesome rush. I can't wait to do that again.

We ended the day at California Pizza Kitchen at Gateway Mall. The kids couldn't help but play in the fountain. I got this cool shot of Max. It looks cartoonish.

My parents and baby sister, Bree were in town for a few days. Leah had the awesome idea of going up to Park City since it is only about an hour away. It was the perfect day!

Back to School!

2010-10-10T20:20:00.001-07:00

Ruby's first day of kindergarten. Her teacher is Mrs. Swan and she attends the afternoon class. Bayley started Jr. High this year. She loves her schedule. Which includes band and world dance. She has learned some pretty crazy dances that she loves to share with us at home.
Max started the 3rd grade. His teacher is Mrs. Barnes. She is very young and pretty. He is doing excellent in math and reading.
This year has been a huge adjustment for me. The kids are enrolled in Syracuse Arts Academy. They require uniforms and I have to drive them to and from school everyday. Yep that is three trips. Next year will be easier when all the kids are in all day. Except Brittyn of course. I love that SAA is K-9. The Jr. High has its own building but it is all on the same campus. Knowing all my children are in the same place has been really great. I get to go in on Daryl's Fridays off and volunteer. I am the art specialists helper for 3 kindergarten classes. I am at the school for 2 hours. It is so fun teaching the kids different art techniques.

Bitter Sweet

2010-09-26T19:18:00.000-07:00

Many of you know we sold our house in Washington...bitter sweet. Nice not to have to pay a house payment and rent. But missing the familiarity and comfort of home. Our rental house is nice but lacks that homey feeling.

Come on in! I just wanted to say goodbye to our house and all our great memories we have had. I really wanted our kids to be able to look back at and see where we used to live. This is our front entry.

Living Room

dinning

Living again.

Family Room

Kitchen

Study.

Laundry Room

Girls Room

Maxwell's Room

One of Three Decks that Daryl built with his own hands.

Main deck.

Our lovely views...this is what I miss the most.

Master bedroom

Master bath
(look at the sweet tile job my cousin Riley did)

Basement bedroom

Basement
I guess it is time to move on. Our new house will be done sometime this winter. Right now there is just a big hole in the middle of our property. Daryl and I love making a house a home. Daryl goes out to the property everyday and takes pictures of the progress and walks around in the hole. It is pretty funny.

Hiking and Bear Lake

2010-08-22T19:24:00.001-07:00

For family night we went on a really fun hike. The kids did great! Ruby made us laugh all the way down the trail!

Bear Lake
Max and his new friend digging a hole.

Building a wall.

Ruby doing her thing.

Happy 4th of July!

2010-07-27T20:56:00.000-07:00

Happy 9th Birthday Max!

2010-07-27T11:04:00.000-07:00

This was Maxwell's pick for his birthday dinner! Fried Chicken, mashed potatoes, candy corn with chocolate milk.

Followed by a ice cream sundae with jelly beans and more candy corns!

Max received two DS games he has been asking for and a fishing pole and fishing gear.

We love you Max!

Birthday interview with Max:

What is your favorite color? Green

What is your favorite food? Cheeseburger, pizza, chicken nuggets and Ranch dressing.

What is your favorite subject in school? Math and Reading.

Why? I'm just really good at it.

What is your favorite video game? Mario and Luigi Bowsers Inside Story (for right now)

What is your favorite movie? The 5th Harry Potter "The Order of the Phoenix"

What is your favorite scripture story? Daniel in the Lion's Den. Why? because when the lions are hungry Heavenly Father closes the lions mouth and they don't eat Daniel.

Max we really love you and love watching you grow!

Camping?

2010-07-27T10:22:00.000-07:00

We drove down to Manti for the Pageant in June. We had such a wonderful time! We can't wait to go back. We have never been to Manti it was a really unique experience for us. Just the sight of the Temple as you drive into town was beautiful! We camped at a local park that they open up for campers during the Pageant. It was $5 per family. I was very grateful that Brittyn who was not walking at the time had lush green grass to play in during our stay. I have taken babies her age camping in regular camp grounds. Let me tell ya, it is very hard to keep them clean. You basically hold them the entire 48 hours.

Not this camping trip! Daryl and Cameron took Max, Ruby & Ike fishing. Bayley and Breanna took a nap in one of the tents. Leah and I set up the baby pool and relaxed and watched Brittyn and Tyler play. One of the most relaxing camping trips I have been on!

Ruby! So cute!

Brittyn's first S'more! She loved it!

Bayley and Breanna getting comfy at the Pageant. All the kids were really good during the Pageant except Brittyn and Tyler. Leah and I had to tend them a bit. It was like 11pm before the play was over. So the babies were very tired. Josh and Sharsti joined us that evening. I wished I would have snapped a few pictures of them. Thanks to Leah and Cameron for the invite and going down a day earlier to set things up for us!

Way to go Max!

2010-07-11T09:44:00.001-07:00

We are so happy for Max! He earned his Wolf badge last month. He worked hard all year. Max is becoming a very responsible young man! We love the Cub Scout program! Maxwell's favorite requirements were the ones were he had to plan a healthy menu and help Mom cook in the Kitchen. Thanks to all his den leaders who helped him reach his goals.

The Running of the Bulls!

2010-06-06T20:40:00.000-07:00

So the beach we went to is on an island that is a state park and somewhat of a wildlife refuge. We were relaxing on the beach when we noticed two buffalo making their way through the beach. There were quite a few people making their way towards the beach. The buffalo must have freaked because they starting charging toward the crowd of people going really fast. We watched helplessly as people ran and screamed and scattered. I just kept thinking please please nobody get trampled! Especially in front of my children. Luckily nobody got hurt. I am guessing that is why Northwest Trek makes us stay in the trams while touring the park. Just a little reminder we are not in Washington any more.

Sponge Bob and "Sandy Cheeks"

2010-06-06T20:19:00.000-07:00

Since we have moved, we have really missed this view. "Sandy Cheeks". The weather has been great and we were feeling really land locked. Little did we know we only live about a ten minutes drive to Antelope Island the largest in the Great Salt Lake. Here we found sandy beaches, very salty water and a sense of normalcy. We set up for the day and watched to kids play in the sand and swim.

I gave Brittyn a shovel and pail full of water. She was entertained for hours putting sand in the bucket then scooping it out. She even taste tested a few times! Yummy.

We dressed like twins!

Max. I buried him in sand then poured water on him. He loved every minute of it.

Bayley came too. She made a sand castle and read the majority of the time.

Bayley is Twelve!

2010-06-05T19:22:00.000-07:00

On Memorial Day we had a joint Birthday for Bayley and Brittyn. Bayley requested a homemade ice cream cake with chocolate and vanilla and mint oreo crust and layers. This is Bayley with her cousin Delany.

Leah and Cam, Sharsti and Josh all came over for the party.

We are so Proud of Bayley

* She continues to excel in her music. Takleing hard pieces. She is currently teaching herself guitar.

*Bayley works hard in school and I never have to remind or ask her to do her homework...which is huge, I know.

* She is sweet and helpful with her siblings.

* Bayley earned her Faith in God award.

* She love to do the right thing.

* Bayley is learning to help around the house and likes to learn how to do domestic type things.

Bayley truly is a fantastic girl to be around. We love her sense of humor and her easy going attitude.

Brittyn is One Year!

2010-06-05T19:14:00.000-07:00

Brittyn wasn't sure about the huge piece of cake I put on her tray. First she put her finger in just for a taste.

This face looks converted to me!

Some of Brittyn's Milestones
* Says Mom and Dad

* Plays peek-a boo

* Loves to look up at the ceiling fan and say "whats that?"

* Enjoys scavenging the house for tiny bits of morsels

* Likes going to the park and going down slides, hanging on bars and eating wood chips or gravel.

* Can walk up to 5 steps independently. Then gets scared and sits down.

* Wants to "help" Mom load and unload the dishwasher.

* Gives lots of kisses and blows kisses.

* Waves and says "HI" to strangers.

* Screams when she doesn't get her way.

* Plays in her old car seat. Snaps and unsnaps.

* Refuses to drink cows milk.

* Goes up and down stairs independently.

Brittyn is a real joy to be around. Daryl and I wish she would stay "little" for much longer. I think we really have learned to savour every moment of her infancy. It just doesn't last long enough.

The Expert

2010-05-23T17:35:00.000-07:00

This is Ruby and Layla at the Temple Square in Salt Lake City. Ruby is telling Layla all about Jesus. It is so funny and sweet. Ruby knows a lot about choosing the right. She loves sharing that knowledge with anyone who will listen. She just has a real hard time following her own advice.

Look Closely

2010-05-23T17:31:00.001-07:00

This is my little sister Leah's idea of a double stroller! Love it!

Swimming Fun!

2010-05-23T16:49:00.001-07:00

The week Sharsti and Josh were married, we went down to Utah a little early to visit my little sister Leah. We stayed in a hotel near their house. And of course it had a pool. We swam everyday! My kids are excellent swimmers! I can't take credit for any of it. The YMCA has a great program. All of my children besides Brittyn loved taking swim lessons. Here is Ruby or Ariel. She would pretend she was a mermaid.

Ike and Max just chillin.

Daryl, Brittyn and Bayley relaxing in the spa. This was Brittyns first time going swimming. She loved it.

Year Round School! What the What?

2010-04-27T12:38:00.000-07:00

Well it has been has been suspected for quite some time but it is now official! I am the worlds meanest Mother. I just enrolled Bayley and Max into year round school. Not that I had a choice. It is the only elementary school near us. I suppose I better make some cookies for after school...getting used to a new neighborhood, city, and state sounds so much easier than it really is.

It's been so long...

2010-04-25T18:22:00.000-07:00

Want to know a few things we have been up to? I have been too busy moving my family and myself to Utah. So check out Sarah's Blog at http://http//sarahandjoelsteveson.blogspot.com/2010/04/daffodill-parade.html

Sharsti & Josh Scott Are Married!

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

I have a ton of pictures to post. SOME people have been bugging me to post them so here is the very first installment! Much more to come.

Gwenyth Ivy Steveson

2010-02-16T17:57:00.000-08:00

Jordan, Danika, Daryl, Brittyn, Joel, Tanner, and Gwenyth.

Brittyn trying to get a peak at her new cousin.

noir ses soir

2010-02-01T20:41:00.000-08:00

We stayed out really late last night (Sunday night) visiting Grandma & Grandpa Steveson. We didn't get home until about 10:00pm. On a school night that can be tough on the kids. Monday is a busy day. I had to get kids up pretty early. Around 4:00pm I caught Ruby falling asleep on the sofa. I told Ruby "don't you dare go to sleep! You will be up all night if you do!"

She said "I'm not going to sleep! I am just closing my eyes and looking at the dark!"-Made my day!

Ruby Mae Is 5

2010-01-31T09:17:00.000-08:00

Ruby turned 5 January 28, 2010. She wanted a Tinkerbell cake. I thought I would try a cupcake tower. Ruby chose strawberry and lemon flavored cupcakes and the cake layers were also strawberry and lemon. This was Ruby's year for a "family" party. We had the Joel Steveson family and her Grandma Colleen and Grandpa Larry over for Dinner and a party! Ruby has had a wonderful year. This is her second year of preschool. She loves doing "homework" when she gets home from school. I have her write her new reading words and sound them out. She seems to be catching on quickly.

Ruby has hit a milestone. On Friday the 29th Ruby went into the doctor for her 5 year check-up. Her immunizations were all caught up and she doesn't need to get her TSH levels checked until March. First time EVER she has gone to the doctor and not gotten poked with a needle or had to have a blood draw! She was a bit confused. She asked me if she still got a sucker when we were done! We are really hoping that the Endocrinologist is right and that her Thyroid issues will be smooth sailing from here on out.

Some of Ruby's favorite things: Emma, makeup, fingernail polish, Tinkerbell, her DS, swim lessons, gymnastics, her CTR4 teacher Dianne Kienholz, playing with Brittyn, and helping Mom with chores.

Ruby loves choosing the right and not the "left"!

Cold & Miserable

2010-01-03T19:19:00.000-08:00

Have you ever been to Zoo Lights? In past years if you bought a season pass to the zoo it included free passes to Zoo Lights. In past years we have gone. Only to come away thinking that it was the same as the year before and if it wasn't free it really wouldn't be worth it. Well, 2009 will be the last year we ever go to Zoo Lights! This year we were turned off by the huge crowds, long lines, freezing cold weather and to top it off we only got a 50% discount on our admission. Rip off! On the bright side, Brittyn looked so cute in her front pack with dad.

Notice: Missing Toothbrush

2009-12-22T20:43:00.000-08:00

Found: One Candy Cane
"I can't find my toothbrush! So I have this candy cane and it makes my teeth smell gOOOOOoood!"-Ruby

Rice, Rice, Baby

2009-12-21T10:52:00.000-08:00

Brittyn's first rice cereal! And the verdict is...she likes it! It has been nice to have her be able to eat something else besides just nursing. She has a healthy serving every night right before bedtime. I am hoping she will sleep better. She really has a hard time sleeping at night. Maybe it is to quiet. She is so used to older siblings making tons of noise!

Randomness

2009-12-21T10:33:00.000-08:00

Bayley was chosen to accompany the 6th grade program. It was quite the event. Bayley did an awesome job keeping tempo with the choir and other instruments involved. She was presented with flowers and chocolates from Mom & Dad at the end of the evening.

Before I Forget...

2009-12-19T18:04:00.000-08:00

Max taking his turn cutting down the tree.

Our children are growing like weeds.

Bayley, Max, and Ruby helping me trim the tree.

These past few week have been a marathon. I am pretty sure I'm not the only one who feels that way before Christmas. So I thought I should post some things before I forget . Last year I ended up just doing a Christmas slide show. I know, lame.

Giving Thanks

2009-11-29T16:34:00.001-08:00

Brittyn, Bree, Bayley, and Sadie excited for Turkey Day.

Pie makes me smile:)

Isaac, Ethan, Emma, Ruby, Max, Josh, and Sadie. Making ginger bread houses. Josh is Sharsti's fiancee. He will be joining the family in February. Josh is really great. The kids loved him. We are so excited to have him a part of our family.

The lovely center piece my Mom put together for our Thanksgiving spread. Only thing more impressive is the giant mashed potato mountain right behind it.

We had a great Thanksgiving. We love our family so much. I am so grateful to my parents for building a family that loves to be around each other. My Mom has made her home a place where everyone wants to be!

Rut Season?

2009-11-14T18:36:00.000-08:00

After a very long day in a house full of arguing, fighting, impatient children, I convinced them to go outside and play some volleyball. It was going to be great. Would their attitudes change do to fresh air and exercise? Nope. But I wouldn't be able to hear the whining and "he's looking at me" from the lower yard. The kids were outside for a peaceful ,blissful two minutes before coming back inside saying"Mom, the bucks are fighting!" I think my house was a contention magnet this week. Some days I feel like my home is just like "the Wild" and then I look in my backyard (jungle) and it is confirmed.

Grandpa Dickson's Birthday Bash

2009-11-08T19:35:00.001-08:00

My Grandpa Dickson's Birthday is on Halloween. This year we got together a week before and dressed up and had a fun Dinner and Dance. My family is the Best. Just about everyone dressed up this year! Daryl and I really need to step it up for next year. I took about a million pictures. So I only posted my favorite few but it looks to be a lot...I just have so many Rad Relatives!
Darla and Kevin Scarecrow and Wicked Witch of the East (Elfaba).

Taytum and Cash Woody and Luna Lovegood.

Ruby and Emma Space Cowgirl and Snow White

Sadie and Bayley two beauties...one from the East the other from the West.

Bayley and Bree...not really sure what Bree was.

Brain punch. Yummy!

Lee and Christy Vulcans...logically.

Karah, Brittani, Me, and Brittyn The White Witch, a Weeblow, a Cat, and a Pumpkin.

Dillion Blades of Glory. Most gutsy costume ever!

Me and my Grandpa the coolest Cowboy I know!

The kids before the party.

Carving Pumpkins with Gpa & Gma Reed

2009-11-08T19:20:00.000-08:00

We had Daryl's Mom and Dad over to carve pumpkins before Halloween. I made dinner and we had warm cider with our traditional doughnuts. For some reason most of my pictures turned out very blurry these were the best pics I had of the event.

Ball

2009-10-24T16:59:00.000-07:00

Want to see the ball Brittyn likes to play with?

What? You should see her favorite swing.

Sonic & Corn Maze

2009-10-21T14:29:00.001-07:00

For family night we went down to the corn maze at Spooners. This years theme was "Honey I Shrunk the Farm" We all had a great time. Daryl made Bayley lead the way this year. We only got turned around a couple of times. She takes after her Dad when it comes to sense of direction. I am never allowed to lead since I get lost in the Mall:)

After the corn Maze we surprised the kids with Sonic for dinner. It is a brand new place to eat in our area. I have seen them in other states. I am pretty sure this is the first one in our neck of the woods. You drive up and order and they bring you your food. You are supposed to eat in your car. Not something we will do again soon... by the time we were heading for home I had onion and mayo in my hair. From the person sitting behind me. Who will remain nameless...good times.

You Can Do it at a Trot...

2009-10-03T18:00:00.000-07:00

You can do it at a Gallop. Fair Time! This year we had a cousins day at the fair! Fun was had by all:) We picked the hottest day of the week. SHEESH it was hot! I don't think the fair new what to think when our troop arrived. Sarah and I get quite a few comments when we have all our kidos with us. Eight kids + Dairy Barn ice cream + great band Vocal Trash = Quite a scene.

Dragon Brothers?

Brittyn Is Four Months Old!

2009-10-03T15:38:00.000-07:00

Brittyn Neeley turned four months September 30th. She now weighs 15lbs! She is a joy to our family! Our love for her is so transparent! Just last night Daryl and I went out. While we were waiting for our meal we kept playing with her. Several people asked "is she your first baby?" we say no and look at each other and have to giggle. Some of her favorite things are nursing, toys, new faces, and watching her brother and sisters jump around trying to entertain her. One of her least favorite things right now is going to physical therapy. She has Portcullis. Apparently there wasn't enough room in my womb for this huge baby and so she strained her neck muscle trying to fit. Her head leans to one side a bit but is getting better with exercises that I do with her and the PT. She isn't much of a nap taker right now. The naps last about 30 minutes. Not really enough time to get anything done around the house. She does really well at night sleeping up to 4 to 5 hours at a time, but only for about 8 hours max. Brittyn is almost able to roll from her back to her tummy on the left side!

We are so blessed to have her in our family!

Miley Cyrus Concert

2009-10-03T15:08:00.000-07:00

Miley Cyrus came to the Tacoma Dome September 16. Bayley really wanted to go. She earned all the money for her ticket and because I have a nursing baby, Daryl had the privilege of attending with her:) Miley sang "I Love Rock and Roll" and rode a motorcycle over the crowd. Bayley had a great time. Most of the pictures Daryl took were pretty blurry do to the nonstop dancing I am sure...he. he.

Good Behavior in Preschool =

2009-10-01T15:08:00.000-07:00

Making a special treat with Mom.

Spokane

2009-09-30T21:12:00.000-07:00

This last weekend we went to Spokane for my nieces baby blessing. Of course I remembered my camera...just forgot the battery! I was so disappointed. We went to Riverfront Park. Rode the sky ride over the falls, ran through the fountain and had lots of family get togethers and didn't get even one picture. So this is a picture of Danika Steveson. She was blessed by her Father Jordan on September 27, 2009. Thanks again Jordan for showing us around town. My kids are still talking about it!

First Day of School!

2009-09-30T20:59:00.000-07:00

At the bus stop Marley, Isaac, Max, Sadie, and Bayley.

Max is in the Second grade. He is using the classrooms new smart board.

Bayley is in the Sixth grade this is her, Maria and Kadyn. Their teacher is a Huge Elvis
fan.

Bottle Rockets

2009-09-30T20:33:00.000-07:00

Heads up!

Is that Bayley using a chop saw?

Did someone actually give Ruby a hammer?

Daryl better watch his fingers if Max is using the drill press!

The Scouts have been in our garage for the past month working on bottle rocket launchers. The kids really wanted to try and make their own so Daryl made them work through the process of planning and building it. Everyone had a good time. I got to be the audience out on the deck while they demonstrated their rockets. Of course they had to drink 3 2 liters bottles of Walmart pop.

Happy Birthday Sharsti!

2009-09-07T14:14:00.001-07:00

Sharsti I looked and looked for a crazy picture of you. I couldn't find one. I might need to get Mom's help for next year.
Anyway, I miss you so much. I hope you have a great Birthday. This is a picture of you on your blessing day. The only siblings missing are Bree and Joel. I love you!

Summer Fun 2009

2009-08-10T21:49:00.000-07:00

Blessing Day

2009-08-03T15:25:00.000-07:00

Brittyn Neeley Reed was given a name and blessing by her father August 2, 2009

Proud big sister.

Tanner and his family, Jessica, Layla and baby came all the way from Rexburg, ID.

Grandpa & Grandma Steveson

All the girls. Sharsti came up from Provo, UT.

All the men.

Everyone

Three generations.

What a wonderful Day! I never could have imagined motherhood to be so joyous. I am so grateful to my mom for being a great example. She has always been a Mother that made being a Mom look fun. So here Daryl and I are blessing our Fourth child. The time has gone by so fast. Hope it slows down a little so we will be able to enjoy it. Building our little family is the hardest thing I have ever done. I have had to be like cottontail bunny and be clever and wise(only my Mom will understand that).

Daryl gave Brittyn a beautiful blessing. I am so grateful to him.

Smitten with Brittyn

2009-07-30T18:28:00.000-07:00

Brittyn Is six weeks old in these pictures. I have forgotten how much fun babies are.

Brittyn

2009-07-28T00:41:00.000-07:00

Brittyn's first feeding from Dad. And of course it is mommy's milk.

Princess Ruby

2009-07-28T00:34:00.000-07:00

This princess is all snookered out! Moments like these...I love my job. Need I say more.

Baptism Day

2009-07-28T00:19:00.000-07:00

Max and RubyMae

So I am a little behind in my posts. Max was baptized by his father July 11, 2009. It was a very special day for the whole family. I am so proud of Max and the example he is to his family. He is so kind and gentle to his little sisters and a great friend to Bayley. I love the curiosity he has for life. He loves to ask questions about everything. He has a sweet nature and me and Daryl couldn't feel more blessed to have him in our family!

Happy Birthday Bree!

2009-07-23T20:47:00.000-07:00

Trying to smile after Botox...JK I love you Bree. I hope you have a great Birthday!

Fourth of July

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

Eight is Great!

2009-07-18T12:08:00.000-07:00

For Max's Eighth Birthday we met family and friends at Lake Tapps for some swimming and tubing.

Unfortunately, it was little hot for cupcakes. I frosted these about 10 minutes before we sang to Max! What a mess. Most people still enjoyed them.

Jacob, Isaac, Ethan, Emma, Sadie,and Max(in the very back) playing king of the "island" with the tube.

Brittyn 's first time the lake. Look at her huge feet in this picture!

Glow Worm

2009-06-25T18:47:00.000-07:00

We knew Brittyn was a bit jaundice when we left the Hospital. It only got worse when we got home. She had to be on a light bed for a few days. We are so thankful it was only a few days and not a few weeks. Ruby and Max both had to be on lights for weeks, after weeks in the hospital. Brittyn has been such a joy. We are really enjoying our "healthy baby".

Brittyn was able to wear one cute outfit before being confined to the light bed.

Hospital Visitors

2009-06-19T14:30:00.000-07:00

Mom, Dad & Brittyn

Jeff an Alecia ottesen

Leah and Cameron

Me and Leah

Ruby, Bayley, Max and Dad

Great Grandma Dickson

It was so fun to have Leah and Cam in town for the birth of my baby. I didn't have to worry about a thing. It was like having Leah read my mind. She took care of everything while I was in the hospital and when I got home. Thanks again.

Mom stayed with me and Daryl the whole time I was in labor and giving birth. It was so fun to have my Mom all to myself. She got me laughing pretty hard at one point. I think that helped the birthing process go much faster.

Thanks to everyone who helped our little family out during this exciting time!

Happy Birthday Leah!

2009-06-14T17:27:00.000-07:00

Thank Heaven For Little Girls!

2009-06-14T16:50:00.000-07:00

Brittyn Neeley Reed

Born May 30th 2009

at 1:13pm

7lbs. 12oz.

20 inches longBrittyn showing off her beauty mark on her tummy. Won't have to argue with her about not wearing two piece swimsuits!

Top of my head right after delivery.

Before picture. Labor and delivery took 4 hours start to finish. My doctor made sure I had an epidural before he broke my water. I felt almost nothing. The best way to have a baby!

Mother's Day

2009-05-24T17:27:00.000-07:00

Leah's famous chocolate cake.

My Mom opening all her gifts. With the help of the grand kids. Everyone had a great Mother's Day!

Baby Shower

2009-05-24T16:17:00.000-07:00

Carrie, Nila, and Arecelli

Megan, Wendy, and Jaqueline

Alecia & Bree

Mom, Me, Bree

Me and Arecelli. She handmade little baby clothes keepsakes. I guess in her culture you pin them on you while you during your party. I felt very festive.

So my BFF Alecia threw me the awsomest baby shower ever! I was so surprised by the turnout! I have the greatest friends! I felt so loved. And Brittyn will have a cute outfit for every hour of the day.

Cousin Ike Comes For a Visit

2009-05-18T14:45:00.000-07:00

So I am pregnant with my forth and Leah is pregnant with her second. I am due in June and Leah is due in September. We are so excited to have babies close together. I am huge!

A pirate and a scary witch.

"sleep over"

Leah, Cameron, and Isaiah came for a visit. Ruby had so much fun playing with Ike.

Hey! Batter, Batter

2009-05-02T12:09:00.000-07:00

Maxwell's first Baseball game ever! Daryl has been working with him and taking him to all his practices. It sure has paid off. Max has the cutest little team. It is still coed so all the girls have little pink batting helmets. So cute. (We didn't even use helmets 20 years ago when I played...which explains some things I'm sure.) Max hit a great ground ball in left this game and did his best to stop some balls in right field. I am so proud. Daryl won for most "enthusiastic " parent on the sidelines. I just can't get enough of my boys.

It Actually Worked!

2009-04-08T16:32:00.001-07:00

Yummy scones. A Sunday morning conference tradition since being introduced to it by the Gealtas'.

My kids sat though all four sessions of conference this year! No I am not lying. I made these little chalkboards from a 1$ clipboard from Walmart and chalkboard spray paint. I got the idea from another blog. I modified it a bit to my needs. I then attached the coolest conference packet that I found at Sugardoodle. Add Some new Roseart washable markers and some chalk and you have nearly eight hours of busy work. During the afternoon sessions we played the word color game mentioned in the Ensign. Saturday we played with Skittles and Sunday we played with M&M's. Even Ruby was listing hard for the key words. I am so doing this again in October.

I am thinking of adding a pocket on the back to keep chalk and earaser. Anyone have ideas on how to do that?

Happy Birthday Jordan!

2009-04-04T16:34:00.000-07:00

I love this picture of you! The best thing about you is that you are always so dang happy! Who knew in a few short years from the time this picture was taken you would be a criminal defence lawyer. Helping criminals back out on the streets in 2 months or less. I couldn't be more proud. Ha Ha.

Nesting

2009-04-04T16:23:00.001-07:00

I stole this idea from another blog. I have been having a hard time staying up to watch movies with Daryl. So I decided to do these Modge Podge easter eggs. I think they turned out nice. I think I will keep them up till July at least.

Spring Break!!

2009-04-04T15:38:00.000-07:00

Ruby and Marcus

Max and Jake

Bayley and Michael

The kids were on spring this week. Daryl couldn't take time off work because of his surgery he had recently. We missed having him around. I got a really bad cold on Sunday and had to miss church. The cold is still lingering. Anyways, on Monday we got invited to go put put golfing. The kids had a blast. My friend Alecia got lots of pictures. I told whoever got the lowest score for the day got to pick where we went to lunch the next day. Bayley won and picked Arbys. We also saw Monsters vs. Aliens in 3D. I have to say I really enjoyed the movie. It was pretty funny. On Thursday we went swimming at the Y. Yes, I got my huge prego body into a swimsuit and paraded around the local Y. Ruby and I hung out in the toddler pool and Max played with friends in the big pools. I told the kids we were going to have one day at home playing board games. We finished an entire game of Monopoly. It was quite a relaxing week. We all slept in till we wanted. Did our chores at a slower pace and ended up playing in the afternoons. I was a lot less strict about bedtimes also. We had a great week!

Missing...tooth

2009-04-04T15:27:00.000-07:00

Max has been waiting for a long time to lose his front tooth. It has been lose for about six months. Max finally got brave and let Daryl pull it out. The highlight of his evening! Funny thing though. I was at a Movie night with my book club. I came home late and all the kids and Daryl were in bed. I was getting ready for bed and heard a strange whistling noise coming from down the hall. I asked Daryl what that sound could be. Turns out it was the empty space in Max's mouth. I just thing he is the cutest !

Happy Birthday Tanner!

2009-03-15T08:56:00.001-07:00

Happy Birthday Tanner! I found a great picture of your pre-mission crazy hair to share with everyone. You are so lucky to have a sister like me.

Thank you for letting me cut your hair eventually. You are a great brother. I am so proud of everything you are becoming. You have such a cute and sweet little family! Have a wonderful day today! I love you.

Happy Birthday Daryl!

2009-03-13T12:39:00.001-07:00

This is my handsome husband. Getting ready to catch some waves at Manly beach. I want him to know how much I love him. I came up with a list.
You are the most loyal friend anyone can have.
You are the awsomest husband.
I love the way you love our kids.
I love your playfulness.
You make me want to be a better person.
You make me laugh (most the time unintentionally)
I love that you know how to do everything handy.
I love your passion for your career.
I love your sensitivity.
I love that you are willing to paint an entire room three different colors just to make me happy.
I love that you love reading to the kids.
I love how you get excited for Christmas.
I admire the way you set goals for yourself and always reach them.
I love traveling with you. Knowing I can expect the unexpected.
I love the way you love little babies.
When I am pregnant you always rub my feet and scold me for doing too much.
I love your outdoorsiness.
I love your camping pancakes and campers hash.
I love that you are dependable.
I love that you make friends easy.
I love that you love to teach our kids new things.
I love how competitive you are when we play games.
Anyway, I hope you get the idea...

Got Everything Covered?

2009-03-03T13:18:00.000-08:00

Last night at the dinner table Ruby passed gas. At my dinner table that will get you excused! Daryl gave Ruby the stern look he gives the kids when they are doing something wrong. Ruby just said "What? I covered my toot!" Another rule when you have to sneeze or cough. Ruby assumed this rule also applied to passing gas. It gets better. Daryl turned his head away trying not to laugh and encourage the behavior. Ruby said "Oh, I am sorry did it hurt your nose?" I think we will be having an etiquette night soon to help clarify a few things for her.

Tagged

2009-03-01T15:20:00.000-08:00

My friend Rebbecca photo tagged me. I am supposed to post the sixth photo in my sixth album. So here it is. This picture was taken March 14, 2006. We had just bought our second home. We gutted the kitchen and replaced all the flooring. We were trying to get it move in ready because our other home sold in six weeks. Daryl spent all his weekends and evenings getting things ready for us. It was his 31st birthday so we brought dinner and cake and ate where our new kitchen would be.

Fondue Party

2009-02-15T16:20:00.000-08:00

For Valentines Day I made fondue for my special valentines. Daryl and I waited for the kids to go to bed and I made a special batch for us while we watched a movie. (too much double dipping going on with the kids)

Ruby really, really loved it.

Valentine Parties

2009-02-15T15:44:00.000-08:00

Bayley arrived home from school mortified after having received several "special valentines" from admirers. However, after visiting with Mom about being gracious, and thinking about the effort of others on her behalf, she quickly became flattered. Knowing that in a couple of years she will enjoy the attention from the boys, I guess I can be grateful that she feels the way she does today.
Bayley also had a band concert that day and played her first duet on the Saxophone.

Maxwell's party was really rockin. He made sure Ruby was introduced to all of his friends. It was so cute. And of course him being a ladies man and not shy at all, he received special valentines from girls in the other first grade classes as well. I am gonna have to keep an eye on him!

Ruby's cute little preschool class exchanged Valentines and sang Valentine and friendship songs.

Combined Family Night

2009-02-15T15:24:00.000-08:00

We had a multi-family Family Night at Grandma & Grandpa Steveson's house on Monday night. We decorated cookies and sent a Valentine package to Sharsti.

The pregnant lady (me) had to opt for Tums instead of conversation hearts!

Thanks Mom for a really fun evening!