Ethan's Middle School Graduation 2012

What can I say about this day?  (besides it was burning hot) Of course I am proud of Ethan, but now I have a high schooler.  What a bright future he has in store!  

 

Brace yourself Ethan and dive into the next four years of your life with all the confidence, strength and integrity you have!  And remember high school is just a stepping stone to much greater things in life. I am so excited to see what you accomplish!!!

Proud Parents

Riley and Ethan

Ethan and Ali

Ethan and Stephen

Toe + Palm Tree = Damage

This is Matthew's left big toe. Yes, it is the one he kicks with. He was playing soccer barefoot in Anthony's backyard during a neighborhood get together for a birthday (Jacob B.) and instead of kicking the ball, he missed and kicked a palm tree. After three nurses who happened to be at the party took care of him, Steve took him to urgent care. They said he was fine until I got there and then he started crying. So glad Steve was home from work to be able to tough this one out with him. They were there for a few hours. They ended up taking his toenail off because they wanted to see if the nailbed was ruptured. It was ruptured, but separated from the toe. Steve said it was so disturbing, one of the 2 nurses had to turn her back because the procedure was groesome. They gave him as much pain killer as they could for his toe couldn't hold anymore. And then his toe wouldn't stop bleeding. He came home with a no toenail and few stitches.  This tough boy was in pain. But handled it very well. The frustrating part for him is that he couldn't play soccer. He had just started club soccer with CCB.

Last Day of School or First Day of Summer 2012

 

Camp Okihi - Matthew

Matthew: This was a one nighter.  The most fun things were archery and tomohawk throwing.  The two pictures you see below.  I was the only one besides Josh that got the tomohawk to stick in the log.  The food was even pretty good.  We had hot dogs for dinner, pancakes for breakfast and some sandwiches and treats for lunch. We got a whole bunch of soda.  I slept in a tent with my dad and this time camping wasn't cold.  

Field Day/Track Meet 2012

A Little Competition, Lots of Ribbons, Good Friends & Yummy Snacks make for a great event!

Brimhall Young Womens May 2012

May was a busy month.  We started off with our Stake Young Women in Excellence Night were had a few girls display some projects and Kristen was recognized for earning her Honor Bee.

We also honored all our Seniors, Cameron, Alex, Kristen, Erin and Jeffery.  Just a fun night trying to embarrass them.  Parents shared some funny stories and then the youth projected where they would see the seniors in 10-20 years by dressing them up as such.  Then we served each of their favorite cookies and signed their scrolls with great words of advice and encouragement.

A little fun with personal progress as we played PP Taboo!

In preparation for Girls Camp we had our Stake First Aid Night Hunger Game Style.  You will notice they even flew in Effie just for this special event.  She always does such a great job.

Erin pretending to be injured.

Jayne almost looking dead.

And the popsicle girls!  Julia, Michelle, Maranda and Erin.

Los Angeles Temple - Youth Trip

Why Mormons Build Temples

Me, Bria, Kristen and Sister Bell

The whole Brimhall Crew!!!

Handsome Ethan and I.

Michelle and Bria were in their Shakespeare play at school and I was so glad I was able to see it.  Talk about some talent!!!

The Laurels last activity for the month was with the Stockdale ward.  We played games, did swimming, ate goodies and made pillow cases for the all the Seniors.  I love being with such stalwart and righteous young women.

Honor Roll Ceremony for Rachel and Matthew

Rachel received the Principal's List, which reflects all her hard work.

Matthew received the Honor Roll, which reflects how much he doesn't really have to try. 

One of these twins is just like their mother and the other is just like their father?????

 

CoNgRaTuLaTiOnS to both of you!!!!!

 

Six Flags Magic Mountain

Well, this is the year we are trying out some Magic Mountain season passes.  This was our first trip and it was for Lauren's birthday.  She is very proud of her new pink sparkly hat and super cape.  I ventured out alone with all five kids and we actually had a great time.  Lauren went on a few rides that I didn't think she would go on.  She was fine, however, won't be going on them again anytime soon. :)  Jacob did really well and even took a nap for us in the stroller. The others are all just some major thrill seekers.  They think Magic Mountain is way better than Disneyland.