Newells

Matt has a birthday!!

2012-02-15T12:55:00.001-08:00

Last week Matt turned one year older! I tried to make the day as special as I could. At 5:15am, Matt and I went to the gym and worked out together. We had a work out that would make anyone cry! I am sure that Matt wished I hadn't begged him to come to the gym that morning. Paige, Gannon and I went to his work and had lunch together. Things were very busy at work and so we didn't stay long. We brought him a few of his favorite things: TCBY yogurt, salad, combo pizza and SOBE grapefruit drink. When we got home, I finished up some last minute things for his birthday. When he came home from work, we had him open his gift. I got him an awesome gift that he can use while he swims: an underwater ipod shuffle with waterproof earphones. He was so excited! He swims twice a week and he has wanted this for some time now. If any of you swim and are looking for a great idea go to: underwateraudio.com and get yourself a waterproof shuffle and earphones. After he opened his gift we went out to dinner with our good friends to a place Matt really wanted to try. The name was Pok Pok. You can see a video on youtube.com about this famous place. It was a great night. We finished the night off with a piece of delicious German chocolate cake and ice cream. Happy Birthday Honey!!

Matt reading his birthday card.

The kids waiting patiently go see what was in the box.

Matt wondering what I got him.

He was so excited to see his present.

BTW, the Hawaiian shirt was a joke with our friends. He wanted them to think that he was going to wear that out in public. Pretty funny!

Matt's German chocolate cake.

I have a delicious recipe from Matt's mom for the pecan frosting.

Matt loves it.

DELICIOUS

Pinewood Derby and Carter's 12th BIRTHDAY

2012-02-01T19:54:00.001-08:00

This post is in reverse from my last post! Carter turned 12 before he received the Aaronic Priesthood and we had a couple of parties to celebrate. Along with Carter having a birthday, Hayden had the Pinewood Derby and loved it. This year Hayden wanted to make an airplane with Matt. He drew out his plane/car that he had in his mind and Matt tried to fulfill his wishes. They did a great job together. Hayden loved it and that is the most important thing!

Carter's birthday dinner.

He wanted meatloaf.

Special potatoes.

He wanted Big Buck Hunter also.

He asked me to make him one of his favorite cakes: Chocolate Vinegar.

Of course homemade chocolate frosting.

The weekend following Carter's birthday was Pinewood Derby day.

Gotta get a mom and dad picture taken. Right!!

Hayden's airplane car.

The family showing Hayden support.

Hayden's car is in the middle.

He didn't win 1st, 2nd or 3rd, but he had a great time.

Carter's Saturday dinner with family: TACOS

Chocolate Vinegar cupcakes.

Carter's friends.

Gannon enjoying one of Carter's cupcakes.

Paige happy to have more dessert.

Carter receives the Aaronic Priesthood

2012-01-31T13:04:00.000-08:00

Our dear Carter is already 12 years old. This last Sunday he was given the Aaronic Priesthood. It was a very special day and experience. He is a wonderful young man. He has always been very spiritually sensitive. We are so happy for him and all that he will learn as he does the Lord's errand.

Carter being a thinker.

The cousins.

Proud PARENTS

Carter and Matt

It is amazing to think that this 9lb 2oz baby boy is now a 12 year old boy ready to have more responsibility and grow closer to Heavenly Father as he exercises the priesthood in righteousness.

Grandpa Morrison and Carter

Grandpa Newell

All of the men that were able to come and be apart of the ordination.

Grandma and Grandpa Newell

Hannah gave Carter a tie pin that was a football with CTR on it.

Seat Belt CLUB

2012-01-27T12:52:00.000-08:00

Recently I had an epiphany!

As a mother, I have had a very hard time with making sure that all of my children (excluding when they are babies) are buckled up when we are driving. Sometimes I will look to the back of the car to check on everyone and realize that we have almost reached our destination and a child was not buckled up. The children that I am talking about are my booster seat kids and over the shoulder car seat kids. In order to get them to buckle up, I have used reward cards, bribes, threats, pulling the car over, getting out and strapping them in, telling them to get out of the car if they don't buckle up and many more. Usually these things might work for a moment, but sometimes they don't. Of all of my children, my 4 year old Paige has struggled the most. I have been really trying to find a good answer so that I am not having a power struggle with Paige on a regular basis.

My answer came last Friday night. I was watching a movie with Bailey and Paige and the actress said something that peaked my interest. I decided to try a trick when I got in the car with Paige the next time to make sure that she buckles her seat belt. I felt that Monday would be a great start date. So, as we got in the car to head to preschool, I said, "Hey Paige, mommy has a new club that only exists in the car", she said, "What is it Mom?" I said, "it is called the SEAT BELT CLUB. In order to be in my club you have to have your seat belt on when we drive." I said, "look at Gannon he belongs to the club because he is buckled up and look at Mommy she belongs to the club too". She then said, "I want to be in the club". I said, "then let me hear that seat belt click". Without any further ado, she buckled that seat belt. Paige is now officially part of the SEAT BELT CLUB.

I can honestly tell you I have not had one battle with her about buckling up all week. I am so happy that kids want to belong to CLUBS! Hooray for the SEAT BELT CLUB.

Random events in January!

2012-01-24T09:02:00.001-08:00

This month we have tried to get back on a good schedule. The kids are busy with piano, basketball, young men/women, scouts, tutoring, studying, reading, playing together and growing up to fast. The kids are now officially half way through their 2011/2012 school year. This year we have also enjoyed a few days of snow and warm fires. I hope that this month has been a good month and a good start to 2012.

Matt is teaching Carter how to chop wood.

Matt showing Carter where he should hit.

A boy very proud of himself.

Gannon watching Carter chop wood.

The kids enjoying the first snowfall of the year.

Paige and Bailey.

I am very proud of myself. Why you ask? I have belonged to our local gym for one whole year. I have decided that I need to tone up this body of mine. I have started to go to a class called body pump. It is incredible. I love it. Matt even joined me one night and about died. I was laughing so hard at his reaction that I couldn't lift up my bar.

Matt and I.

He survived!!

Thanks for coming with me honey.

The heaviest snowfall that we have had in 12 months. It was such a beautiful sight.

I opened our front door to see this white landscape with complete silence in the air. I grabbed the camera and started to take pictures. These pictures do not do this night justice.

If you are from Idaho or Utah don't laugh at our little snowfall.

It was exciting to us!

One morning after I bathed Paige and Gannon, I put them on the bed and they just stared at me with their towels wrapped around them. Paige told me that she and Princess Gannon were cold. (I keep the house at 69 degrees and it is very cold) I hurried and grabbed the camera to take a picture. These are special moments.

Hayden is getting ready for his Pinewood Derby. He designed his car and Matt helped him cut it out and sand it down. He is very excited. This year he wants his car to look like an airplane.

Sanding down the edges.

Sketching what he wanted his plane/car to look like.

This picture is out of order.

Carter participated in a school event celebrating the Chinese New Year.

He wore a snake around his neck. He was very proud of his responsibility.

Carter's class holding up their banner!

Christmas 2011

2012-01-01T22:23:00.001-08:00

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to all of you. It is hard to believe that Christmas vacation is over and life is heading back to normal again.

We started our vacation by packing up the car and doing last minute things around town. Matt needed to stay and do some more work at school and we had some church functions to attend. Hayden had not been feeling very well for a few days and so late on Friday, I took him to Urgent Care. He was not eating, laying on the couch all day, his temperature was 103 for 3 days and he was coughing. When we got to Urgent Care, they did a strep test and it came back positive. We immediately started antibiotics. We decided to go ahead and leave on our trip hoping that he would get better with medicine. We went to Eugene to stay the night with mom and dad Newell. Hayden continued to get worse and so we went to a Urgent Care in Eugene. Not only did he have strep but he had an oral infection that caused sores all over his mouth, gums and lips. They gave us a prescription of Vicodin to help him make it through the pain and sent us on our way. We noticed that Paige and Gannon were exhibiting the same symptoms and so I called our doctor at home and they called us in a prescriptions for them also. We ended up changing vacation plans and staying in Eugene until the 23rd of December. We all then went to Lincoln City with Matt's family for the next 5 days to celebrate Christmas in a beautiful home. I got a cold and we tried to be positive and helpful, praying that nobody would get our sickness'. Despite the kids being sick, they had a good time and were troopers. Paige did scream a lot from the pain, but we understood. Santa was very good to the kids!! They loved playing with their cousins.

After we left Lincoln City, we went to Eugene and celebrated our 17th wedding anniversary. We then came home and took down the Christmas items and prepared for 2012. It has truly been a great year. Heavenly Father always takes care of our needs and showers down his love upon us. We are looking forward to another great year!!

Sitting at the big table eating breakfast.

I took family pictures of some of Matt's siblings.

This is Tricia and Darren's family.

A family picture on Christmas Eve.

Hayden is cold and not feeling well and you can see Paige's lips enlarged.

The whole family.

Rich and Julie

Crazy picture.

I put this picture in this blog to show you our poor children. Hayden is ready to cry and Paige is pleading for Vaseline to cover her huge lips that have sores all around them. Carter is very angry and Matt and I for having him take off his shoes in the sand.

The beach was so pretty this day that we did not want to leave without getting some pictures walking on the sand. She recommended us hold hands and turn around. Hayden refused to take his hand out of his sweater, Paige was screaming and Gannon was crying too. Julie kindly and patiently took these pictures for us.

Zac and J.J.

The whole family.

Amber and Aaron.

Ashlee and Jeff's family.

Jill

Ashlee holding little baby Luke or Jonah?

Sweet picture.

J.J. and Tricia.

Rich and Julie.

Christmas Eve we watched the children do a very sweet play.

It really set a great tone for the night.

Santa Claus Carter.

The kids singing We Wish you a Merry Christmas.

Amber and I.

Our beautiful angels for the nativity.

Madalyn was a donkey.

Hayden laying down in front of her.

I believe he was supposed to be Joseph.

The whole group.

All of the grand kids with mom and dad.

Christmas morning.

This year we had told our kids that they would be getting 3 gifts from Matt and I. They were very good about it and did not complain.

The grand kids lining up.

Bailey excited about her Toms.

Bailey excited about her Lalaloopsies.

Madalyn with her new camera.

Hayden with a star wars Lego toy.

Carter with his Memoir 44 game.

Hayden's Nerf gun from Grandma.

Matt got an IPad.

I got a watch.

Paige fell asleep from her medicine and being sick.

Poor girl.

Christmas dinner.

A group of the family working in the kitchen.

Grandma reading to Gannon.

The grand-kids playing with cars.

Gannon talking to baby Luke or Jonah (I have a hard time remembering which baby is which). Sorry Amber.

Jen feeding the twins.

Isabella doing Bailey's hair.

Carter riding the gift that Santa left for Hayden and Carter.

Uncle Rich pushing Bailey on the Green Machine.

Madalyn wearing a dress from the wedding on the Green Machine.

Formal picture.

Mom and dad with kids.

Jennifer and Michael with mom and dad.

Game night!

At the Morrison family reunion, my sister Meg did a game called Minute to Win It. We had 8 stations of activities. I copied her and did the game with Matt's family. We had a great time together in teams.

These are pictures of the TEAMS:

Carter getting ready to do the paper bag game.

I think it was called Face Off? I can't remember.

Jen doing Face the Cookie.

JJ doing the balloon challenge. (can't remember the name of this one)

Ben doing Separation Anxiety.

Darren doing Stack Attack.

Bailey doing Nose Dive.

Mom doing a Bit Dicey.

When we got home, Madalyn went to her first church dance with her cousin Taylor.

She had a great time and looked very pretty.

This wasn't the outfit that she was wearing for the dance!!!

Happy New Year.

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas

2011-12-11T23:29:00.000-08:00

Matt and I made last minute plans to go into downtown Portland and take the kids to a few special Christmas things. We did not tell the children what we were doing or how we were getting there. Matt had heard about a Tuba concert in Pioneer Courthouse Square and then he heard about Santa being at Macy's downtown. We loaded up the car and headed to the transit system for Portland. The kids love to ride these trains. We parked the car and jumped on one heading into downtown. When we arrived there were many people walking around getting ready for the concert outside. The kids were a little surprised. They had a hard time seeing the performers. After about 4 songs, we were all very cold, so we went into Macy's and visited Santa. Overall, it was a good day. Only a few hiccups.

Hayden standing on the train.

The beautiful Christmas tree at Pioneer Square Courthouse.

Paige listening to the songs.

Gannon all bundled up.

Carter wouldn't wear his Russian hat(that is what we call it), so I did. It was cold.

Hayden all excited.

We saw a Christmas tree and gingerbread man walking around the square.

Waiting in line to see Santa.

Patient children.

Madalyn read a book she was dying to read as we waited.

Santa's reindeer.

The purchased picture.

Getting ready to jump back onto the Max and go home.

Good afternoon.

Ward Christmas party late on that night.

Bailey telling Santa that she wants a Blankidbuddy.

Gannon not sure of Santa.

The young women in our ward visiting Santa.

Madalyn wins award!!

2011-12-07T21:21:00.000-08:00

A few months ago Madalyn wrote a paper on why she was proud of her country. Madalyn called my dad who had served in Vietnam and asked him questions about his service and how he felt about his country. She did an excellent job on her paper. There were 350 students who wrote an essay and Madalyn took 3rd place. They gave her a check for $100. She was so excited to get the award. She did not know that the award had prize $ also. As I watched her in the assembly, I got all teary eyed feeling so proud of her and our beautiful country. Way to go Madalyn!

After winning the award.

The winners.

My beautiful daughter and her prize.

Paige and Gannon joined me at the assembly.

It can't be TRUE

2011-12-05T09:58:00.000-08:00

Madalyn turned 14 this last weekend and I still can't wrap my brain around it. I can't believe how fast time flies by. I really mean that. Each day happens so quickly and I realize more and more how fast children grow up. When Madalyn was little, I felt like each day went by so slowly. I wondered if I would ever make it through the next 18 years. Not because Madalyn wasn't a wonderful child, I was not secure with my mothering skills, so I spent most of my time worrying about everything. Now, I realize how precious each day is. I only have my kids for a very short time and I want to do the best job I can and make every day count. Madalyn is such a wonderful person. We love her so much and are grateful for what a great daughter she is. Happy 14th Madalyn!!

For breakfast Madalyn wanted her dad's breakfast burrito. When I grabbed the camera she said," Oh mom, I look so bad. Do you need to take pictures?" Why yes I do!!

A kiss from Dad.

Ok, now I can take a picture!

For her birthday, Madalyn wanted to have her friends over for the night. She then wanted to go shopping at the mall the next day with her birthday money. This is a picture of Madalyn and her friend Grace.

Jill putting up decorations.

Jill, Madalyn and Grace.

Hanging out in Madalyn's bedroom.

Birthday money from grandma and grandpa Newell.

Acting like she didn't know that she was getting Michael Buble CD from Matt and I.

Madalyn's friends.

Singing Happy Birthday!!

Blowing out her candles!

Her cousins Taylor and Hannah met us at the mall on Saturday and came to the house and stayed the night. Madalyn loved her birthday!

Happy Thanksgiving!

2011-11-30T09:29:00.000-08:00

For Thanksgiving, we headed down to Reedsport to be with my parents and oldest brother. The kids had 6 dogs to play with. Gannon loves dogs! He won't be getting one but at least we know that this is one of his loves! Bailey and Paige loved taking the dogs out with Grandpa and Uncle Dan. The weather was very beautiful. Thanksgiving morning, Matt, Sandy, Dan and I took a walk with all six dogs. It was a very pretty morning and it felt so refreshing. I love being outside when the sun is shining and the air is crisp. We spent the weekend playing cards and Ticket to Ride. Great food and family time.

Thanksgiving day! Matt has a beard. He does this every year. It is NO Shave November according to him!!

Dan and Sandy. We had a great time together.

Thanksgiving meal.

Grandpa making his famous pancakes for the kids.

I love my dad so much!

Gannon following the dogs around the house.

When we got home for Reedsport, we went hunting for a Christmas tree. We got it for $15. The distance to drive was only a half of a mile.

The hunt was on.

Holding Gannon so that he wouldn't get all muddy.

Oh Christmas Tree, Oh Christmas Tree.

Carter and Matt cutting off the bottom of the tree and getting ready to bring it into the house.

As I finished dinner, the kids helped Matt put up the lights outside.

After dinner, we watched Charlie Brown's Christmas and I put up the lights.

Merry Christmas to everyone.

Multnomah Falls

2011-11-15T10:45:00.001-08:00

With a long weekend ahead of us, we decided to head out together as a family and spend the day enjoying each other. We had planned to celebrate an early Thanksgiving with family, but plans had to be canceled because of more important things. Matt and I have been wanting to take the kids to Multnomah Falls for a long time. We stopped at different landmarks as we traveled to the falls. It was truly a wonderful day.

The next day, we watched Madalyn play basketball, Hayden play soccer, and Carter play in his championship football game. It was a whirlwind weekend.

Vista Point.

Overlooking the Colombia Gorge.

The kids.

Beautiful view looking down.

Matt and the kids looked at a waterfall along the scenic highway.

Beautiful waterfall.

Madalyn, Gannon and I stayed in the car while Gannon slept at one of the falls.

Multnomah Falls.

Gannon woke up when we arrived at Multnomah and hung out on Matt's back.

It was just a beautiful day. The leaves were gorgeous and the weather was perfect.

Matt and the kids.

Taking a little walk up the falls.

The boys.

Saturday!

Hayden played in a game with other boys of his age group. His coach had picked 3 boys that he felt were exceptional during the season. Hayden was one of them. He did an awesome job.

He had never played indoor soccer. He did so good.

Carter's team won 2nd place. We are so proud of him. He has been playing football since August. What a trooper. First time ever. Way to go son.

At the end of the game Carter's linemen coach came up and gave him the game ball. Carter felt like a champion. He is a great kid and his coach saw that. He hardly played but he had a positive attitude and hard work ethic.

Happy HALLOWEEN

2011-11-01T08:59:00.001-07:00

We have had a 4 day run of Halloween parties and our bags are full of candy. The kids have been dressing up for Trunk r Treats, family parties and Trick or Treating. Life has been on the go! (What's new?) Matt and I always love to help the kids eat their candy because we don't want them to get sick!! Halloween is a very fun time of the year for our family. Here are a few of our family pictures from this last weekend.

Paige and Gannon at home getting ready for our ward trunk r treat.

Beauty Queen Bailey whooping it up.

"Don't worry boys, spiderman will protect you."

Clowning around with Gannon.

Me and Alisha at our ward trunk r treat.

Batman and Astronaut Carter.

Pumpkin bowling.

Cake walk.

When we arrived at the party, Paige's fellow Sunbeam was dressed up in an identical costume as Paige.

So sweet.

Party #2 in Hillsboro.

Hayden and Caleb

Matt and I hanging out at the trunk!!

Matt suggested that we bring our Incredible costumes for Matt and Carda. I thought his idea was brilliant.

The kids Trunk r Treating Matt.

I could not believe how many people showed up to the trunk r treat at my brother's ward. It was incredible. This pictures does not even show all of the cars.

My Spidey!

The fire alarm went off in the building and so the fire engines showed up and we all had to evacuate the premises. It was a very memorable moment.

The fire truck.

Unfortunately, Mr. Incredible and Spiderman were unable to save the building.

Party #3, time for the real trick or treating.

Hayden loves this time of year.

Carter and Bailey running from house to house.

It's SPOOKTACULAR!!

2011-10-27T21:00:00.001-07:00

With days until Halloween, we finally found an evening that we could all be together and carve pumpkins. The kids love this time of year and carving their pumpkins. I wanted to make our dinner special for the evening also. We had a great evening!

The girls in their Halloween aprons.

Mt. Hood.

Mummy wraps.

Fingers!!

Zombie stomach food.

Madalyn carving.

Gannon with his little pumpkin.

Helping Carter clean out the insides of his pumpkin.

We are done!

Paige was so excited to see what Matt had done on her pumpkin.

Hayden carving!!

Bailey having a great time!

Paige taking her pumpkin to the porch.

Carter and Hayden.

Madalyn is missing from this picture as you can see. She went babysitting.

My cute kids showing off their pumpkins. I am a lucky MOM!

Gina comes to Oregon!

2011-10-25T15:37:00.000-07:00

This last weekend was the best. Gina came to visit me from Utah for 5 days. We had a great time shopping, eating, highlighting hair, watching football and soccer games, watching movies, talking, cooking and driving everywhere.

Putting the sack on the head for a fast heat of the foils.

At Hayden's soccer game Carter threw his football and used it to spin on Gannon's head.

Madalyn and Gina!

Grandma and Grandpa came and watched the kids play there games.

Carter's football game was very exciting.

Gina helped Hayden play scrabble on Matt's phone.

It was a great 5 days!!! I am so thankful to have Gina in my life. I will be heading to Utah in the Spring for our next get together.

Pumpkin Patch

2011-10-11T10:54:00.000-07:00

This weekend we took the kids to get their pumpkins at Olson Farms. The weather was so nice. We had been worried because the rain had been falling for days before Saturday. We really lucked out. We have gone to Olson's for the last 3 years. It is a small farm with great prices and the kids like to ride the hay ride with the horses or the tractor. Our good friends the Bayers joined us again and we had a great time.

I love pumpkins!

The kids always pose for me. I appreciate it kids!!!

This time we walked up to the pumpkins because the tractor wasn't ready to take off and we had a short time schedule.

Bailey picked her pumpkin.

Matt and I do love going out to find out pumpkins with the kids.

Gannon and I.

His second time finding a little pumpkin.

Madalyn wanted to hold Gannon on her back. Thanks Ma!!

Carter and Hayden hiked all around the patch trying to find the perfect pumpkin.

Pumpkin brothers.

Cute Paige with her pumpkin.

The girls.

Olson Farm 2011

The Bayers.

Everyone waiting for the tractor to arrive.

Matt and Gannon.

I have taken pictures of the kids all around the same age as Gannon sitting on their pumpkins. Oh so sweet!

More CELEBRATIONS

2011-09-19T18:04:00.000-07:00

It was the final celebration for September! Jen and Mike ended their honeymoon in Eugene with an open house. We all gathered at home to get the house looking beautiful and prepare great food. The kids love these kind of days. Everyone did a wonderful job getting things ready.

Before we left, Gannon got into the pans and decided he wanted to cook some food.

Paige putting a puzzle together.

Bailey relaxing on the coach before bed time.

Madalyn had a school project that she needed to get done. We baked a cake in tribute to 9-11.

Here is the cake in the background.

Jen's cake at her open house.

The backyard!

Doesn't it look great.

Mom and Dad.

The delicious cakes that we all ate.

Jen and Mike cutting the cake.

Tricia and her friend Laurie.

Amber and Kim.

The kids playing football in the front yard.

Jen, Aunt Ann and I went into the front area of the house to take some pictures of her!

The jewelry that I made for her wedding.

The BYU game was on and so some of our hard workers took a break to watch the game.

Paige, Ty and Ben played Candyland.

More pictures.

Paige being silly with a wig!

Jennifer's Wedding 9-10-11!

2011-09-12T15:56:00.000-07:00

Jennifer and Michael got married this weekend in Seattle. We piled in the car and headed up to Seattle for a fun filled weekend. Everything turned out very nicely. We are very happy for the newlyweds!!

Jen and Mike!!

Early morning rehearsals with the kids.

Jill directing traffic.

The bridesmaids.

It was a beautiful setting on a lake.

Matt and Mike.

J.J. tying on the netting.

The kids did a great job.

Aunt Ann with the girls.

2 of Tricia's cakes had a collapse, sadly!

This is Jen and Tricia lamenting the cakes.

Jen all dolled up by Julie.

She looked very pretty.

Jen with her bridesmaids.

Carter and Alexander.

The cake.

Ashlee and Jeff.

Paige, Tyler and Natalie.

Linda, Ashlee, Me and Amber.

Twins: Amber and Ashlee

Rich and Anderson.

Cute Anderson is smiling in this picture so I had to post it.

Madalyn looked beautiful.

The decorations.

Jill and Tricia.

Jill and Mom.

Tyler kissing Anderson.

The happy couple with all of the children.

The brothers.

The bridesmaids.

Mom and Dad with their children.

The whole group.

Jennifer with her bouquette.

The sisters.

Wow, Ohh, umm

Mom and Dad celebrated their 47th anniversary on this day.

Madalyn and Carter.

The cute boys waiting patiently.

These children deserved a gold star.

Matt and Gannon.

Messing around.

Here comes the bride.

It is official!

Husband and Wife.

The celebration afterwards.

It was at a beautiful location.

Gannon and I.

Jen's friend looks like Sarah Palin!

The girls took a picture with her for a memory.

I took a few pictures of the Wilhoit family.

Don't they look good.

Here is another one that I liked.

I will be emailing them to you Tricia.

Darren and Tricia.

Natalie on the grass playing with her flowers.

Cyndi, Gannon and I.

Cutting the cake.

Time to eat.

Our family!!!

Acting silly!

Reedsport to Florence

2011-09-09T09:03:00.000-07:00

Before school started, I took 4 of the kids down to visit my parents. The kids had a great time walking the dogs and sitting around. We went to Florence after that to camp with family. This is an old family tradition. The kids enjoy riding their bikes, talking to cousins, swimming, eating, sleeping, making smores, starting fires, climbing sand dunes and creating clubs. After we came home from a week long trip, the kids started school again. So far so good. They really love their classes and teachers!

My dad walking the dogs with Bailey and Hayden.

On a little hike around Lake Marie.

Camping at Honeyman. Matt is holding Anderson and Gannon.

On the beach at Driftwood Shores.

Avery, Hayden, Bailey and Katelyn

Hayden loves the sand.

Making memories.

I found out that Gannon really loves to sit in the sand and play for hours.

Grandma with Will and Anderson.

The kids and some of the adults played a game of football.

Ben and Jeff.

Gannon loved walking all around the beach.

Ashlee and Will.

Paige and Natalie getting buried in the sand.

Another group built and sand castle.

Nice work you guys.

Gannon loved this little car.

Carter getting ready for 6th grade.

Madalyn is an 8th grader.

Hayden wanted to pose by the tree this way!

He is in 4th grade.

My Bailey is in 2nd.

HOOD to COAST

2011-08-28T17:48:00.001-07:00

This weekend, Matt and his brother ran the HOOD TO COAST. Rich flew in on Thursday evening and they prepared for the next 48 hours of no sleep, exhaustion, laughter, endless vans everywhere, eating on the go, pictures, sweat, strange odors and aching muscles. This was all achieved to say that they had ran the mother of all mother runs: The Hood to Coast. What a memorable weekend!

Matt and Rich at the Mt. Hood lookout.

Two brothers, mentally prepared to run 3 different legs each of a 200 mile run with a 12 man relay team. (Wow that was a mouthful)

Look very close and you can see Mt. Hood in the background and

two determined brothers.

This is Matt and Rich's team of 6 in van #2.

Maki, Meyers, Matt, Aaron, Rich and Matt.

The handoff with Rich and Matt.

Rich ran leg 11 and Matt ran leg 12.

Rich running his final leg, which was a tough leg (so they told me!)

Hood to Coast runners waiting at a location to tag the next guy or girl.

Rich finished with his last leg.

Together at the the finish line!

They made it.

Seaside, ORegon.

Way to go HONEY.

Mom, Dad, the Wilhoits and all of my children waited in the sand for a good 3 to 4 hours for the Foot Fungus Among Us team to arrive. The children were pretty patient, seeing that it was very hot and sticky outside.

Niece Taylor.

Natalie and Paige playing in the sand.

They finally arrived all together. Way to go you guys!!

It is finally over!

He did it.

Matt always impresses me with his determination and positive attitude.

Those that sat in the sand waiting for hours to see the team run in. I found out that Gannon loves sand. He has it everywhere.

Wearing their shirts and medals at the end of a long race.

How about next year guys???????

Maybe it is too early to answer that question.

Here we all are.

Mom and Dad drove from Eugene to cheer their sons on in this big race. They left in the morning and stayed all day long supporting their boys. Thanks mom and dad. You are great!!

Summer is almost over.....sadly

2011-08-23T18:59:00.001-07:00

It is hard to believe that summer is almost over. Tonight, Carter went to football practice and so I went outside with the other kids and took pictures. I love being a mom. It is the most rewarding experience. The kids let me take tons of pictures. I don't want to forget these summer days!!!!

Carter heading to football practice.

My sweet Bailey. Today we went shopping for school clothes at Goodwill. We found some very cute tops.

Madalyn is growing up so fast. She has been a huge help this summer. I love having her around to spend time with and talk to.

Hayden is a sweet boy who loves his siblings. He holds Gannon for me so that I can cook, clean and take care of other responsibilities.

Bailey's eyes are so beautiful. They are bright blue.

My girls.

Hayden and Madalyn.

Paige has the funniest faces. I love to take her picture.

Yes, he is walking! He started 2 weeks ago and it is very precious.

Love how he moves!!

I am a blessed woman! Today I went to the eye doctor and he asked me if I had any children. I told him that I had 6 and he said "you know what causes that don't you?" I looked at him and said, "yes I do and I have been very blessed." NOTHING else was said.

Jen's Bridal Shower

2011-08-17T12:40:00.000-07:00

JEN & MIKE

Jen is getting married and we are all excited!!! This weekend Jen came home with her fiance to have a little party and get pictures done. It was a fun, fast and furious weekend. They took great pictures and we had a good turn out at the bridal shower. The food was so good and the girls loved seeing their Aunt beam with happiness. Congrats Jen and Mike!! This post is primarily for Jen's sister's that could not be here. We missed you all: J.J., Julie, Jill and Amber.

Oh how cute!

We had the bridal shower outside because the weather was so beautiful.

Gannon loved the party.

The fruit.

Oh so very good.

Great honeydoo.

Delicious brownies.

The 4 bridesmaids ran the show.

Friends: The Lakes.

Opening one of her gifts.

Can you guess what it was?

Mom with her grand babies.

Jen was radiant. She is very happy.

Eating a little of the food.

Loading her mouth with gum from one of the games that the girls did.

I can't help throwing these pictures in of him. He just started to walk.

These cute measuring spoons.

Ash and Will.

The whole group together!

Happy days are ahead.

The Lake House

2011-08-08T14:02:00.000-07:00

My friend called and asked us to come out to her lake house for a couple of days. I hadn't been in 7 years with all of lifes demands, so I was very excited to go and have the kids play in the sand and water for 2 days. They had a wonderful time with each other. The weather was perfect. Thank you Sarah for a great 2 days.

The kids playing Twister.

The boys loved this game.

Carter was the captain of this paddle boat. He loved it.

Here he is taking the kids on a tour of the docks.

Gannon and Madalyn out on the dock.

Matt was unable to get up on this machine 7 years ago. Finally, he did it this time. It was like riding a bike, he remembered everything that didn't happen last time and got right up this time!!

I love this picture because all of the kids are doing something different.

Carter snapping his life jacket, Hayden walking on to the deck, Paige waiting for Matt to be ready, Madalyn talking to Matt, Bailey ready to jump on this water craft and Matt starting the engine.

Oh Yeah!! Hold on Madalyn.

Hayden is having a blast. Look at those 2.

Paige loved riding with her Dad.

Madalyn really enjoyed this paddle board.

The big tube.

Carter on "his" paddle boat.

Matt got the rope wound up in the engine of this ski doo. Sarah and I had to hold it up while he unwrapped the rope.

Look at those muscles!

Paige loved the sand.

Kris, Sarah and I.

That sunscreen in the bottom of this picture is a must.

Sarah and I.

Madalyn enjoyed floating on the water right before we left.

Bailey loved trying everything at the Lake House. She is fearless.

Gannon was such a good boy. Paige gave him a lot of attention. He really liked sitting on the trampoline.

Carter was very cold, but he finally got into the water on the day that we left.

I drove to Eugene for the night and Gannon loved Grandma's little pool. Isn't he precious.

My very helpful daughter!

Madalyn sat in the pool with Gannon.

Madalyn and Gannon.

Hayden loved swimming in G & Gs pool.

Carter ready to jump back in.

Brothers.

When I got home, Matt had painted our headboard that we had bought at a garage sale. I have never had a head/foot board and so we were pretty excited to find this for $75 and paint it black. Thank you honey!

Madalyn sewing pajama bottoms for personal progress.

She loves to sew.

Carter just started to play tackle football. He is so so sore. Poor kid!!

Carter's First Official Scouting Overnighter

2011-08-02T22:33:00.000-07:00

Being the 11 year old scout leader for Troop 288 might seem like a lot of work but when you only have two scouts it is kind of nice and laid back. Luckily for these two scouters their fathers enjoy backpacking. Beyond the flag raising, rocket making and other fun things we had planned this summer was there first official backpacking trip that we had scheduled for the middle of July. Not knowing where to go I looked to my trusted companion, sidekick and friend Rich Simons who quickly decided on a perfect 12 mile backpacking trek that to this day put the fear of death in my heart. For these true scouters it was just another day at the park. Eagle Creek trail is in the gorgeous Columbia Gorge. The trail head starts near the Bonneville Dam Fish Hatchery. It hits about 6-7 waterfalls as you wind around different ravines and trails that eventually make there way to Mt. Hood. It was a wonderful hike that we all enjoyed and will never forget. All the boys: Carter, Hayden and Ethan did an outstanding job.

Ethan, Carter and Hayden with their packs ready to head out.

They seem so refreshed and eager to go.

After the normal whines and complains

they seemed to settle down and just hike.

Hayden to your left...that boy has energy.

He could have carried my pack. He definitely likes the front of the pack.

Here is Punch Bowl Falls. It was a good

stopping point to rest and eat a healthy snickers bar. I love hiking!

Here I am crossing one of many bridges....

Here is looking down off the foot bridge into the ravine. Yes it was quite a drop.

At numerous points along the trail we had to hold on for dear life... I mean...we faced many obstacles and learned a great deal about our inner strength or...we learned a lot about peer pressure... as I would have turned around had it not been for these fearless boys.

Eventually we found a great camping spot 4 miles in and broke for camp. Here the boys just finished putting up our tent.

After breaking camp we hiked another four miles to take in more waterfalls. It was worth every step.

Getting closer to the big daddy waterfall "Tunnel Falls"

The video speaks for itself!

The boys and I in front of Tunnel Falls. Yes we are standing on a cliff.

Returning to camp Rich and I heated some water and we all feasted on some great dehydrated meals. I would suggest you mix the spaghetti with the macaroni and cheese hmmmmmm!

After dinner we went down to the river to water up.

The boys loved the water filter kits.

Some call them burnt smores... Carter calls them well done and delicious. Nothing like graham crackers, chocolate, marsh mellows and outdoors to make a camping trip. We forgot to bring the Tang.

The end could not have come soon enough. We were all tired and ready to hit the hay. (Notice the hiking stick that Carter packed out. It was a good carving activity. He kept all ten fingers.) Please don't think this was a walk in the park. It was so hard that we had to head straight to DQ before heading home just to gain the strength to make it home.

Haaaaa....... one hike down...How many more to go???????????

Enchanted Forest

2011-07-29T10:53:00.001-07:00

I have been wanting to take Bailey and Paige to Enchanted Forest for about a year now. I loved taking Madalyn as a little girl and I did not want time to pass and not take the other girls. Matt had headed off on a overnight hike with the boys so I made a quick decision and told the girls that we were heading to E.F.. They were so excited! We got all ready in the morning. We called Grandma and asked her to meet us. We had a great time. What a fun place. I love making memories.

The day before we went to Enchanted Forest, my friend Carrie came over and we played with our cameras. She taught me a few tricks about my camera that I did not know. Thanks Carrie.

Beth and Carrie.

Gannon was outnumbered by us girls.

He loved sitting in his stroller seeing all of the bright colors and children running around.

Paige was a little nervous to enter some of the castles.

We had to talk her in to going inside.

It is really a beautiful theme park.

Goldilocks and the 3 Bears cabin.

The fun slide.

Little Gannon loved going down this slide.

Abraham Lincoln was there this day!

Every time I have gone to Enchanted Forest with the other kids, Mom came with me except for once. I enjoyed having her company and the girls really loved it.

Getting in line for a ride.

This was Paige's favorite ride.

Bumper Boats.

Bailey is a ride crazy girl.

The famous Frog Hopper.

This was Bailey's favorite ride.

Choo Choo.

Bumper cars was Madalyn's favorite ride.

Bailey is Paige's little protector.

Tonight, I asked Paige who her best friend was and she pointed to Bailey.

My heart melted.

Ferris Wheel.

Mom and I waited for the girls to come down the log ride.

There they are.

The 2 fearless log riders.

Gannon loved seeing all of the people getting on the various rides.

My sweet little boy.

Mom and Madalyn pretending that Gannon can walk.

We had a wonderful day at Enchanted Forest.

Mom thanks for taking time from your busy schedule to be with us.

Matt's 20 year class reunion and other stuff!

2011-07-20T21:36:00.000-07:00

Life is never quiet in the Newell family. This last weekend we headed down to Eugene for Matt's 20 year class reunion. Our little nephew Alexander had come to visit at Grandma's for 2 weeks, so we spent some fun time with him and also the Krebs family while in Eugene. Life is way to fast and short. When we saw all of Matt's classmates we couldn't believe how much time and yet little time had past. We had a great time (as always)!!

Alexander!

At Grandma's house the kids played a few classic games on Saturday because the rain had come and outside was too wet.

Chutes and Ladders!

Ash and Jeff asked me to take a few family pictures and they really turned out nice.
Beautiful family.

We had some pretty funny things happen while taking these pictures. If only the camera could talk!

Boy, do I need to go to Pilates. Look at that slouching I do. I need to strengthen those core muscles. Anyway, before we left to the Saturday night event for Matt's 20 year, Dad took us outside to get a memory photo!!

Monday morning, Hayden headed to his cub scout day camp. He was so excited. I was worried because Carter would not be with him to make him feel safe. It has all worked out very well though. No more worries!

Jumping in the car with his friend Andrew.

Today, I went to camp with Hayden. The boys did an awesome job. I was very proud of them.

Bullseye!!

A Parade and Madalyn returns!

2011-07-10T17:04:00.001-07:00

This was a full but exciting week for our family. Matt worked to get things done and I ran a bunch of errands and tried to reorganize our house. We enjoyed a little down time by going to a parade in town. Hayden and Bailey were part of the parade and so we wanted to show our support.

On Saturday, Madalyn returned from a vacation to Utah. We missed her very much. On Saturday morning, we were eating breakfast and I asked Matt to look up her itinerary and see what time she landed. He pulled up the information on his lap top and her flight had already landed. We began to scramble around the house trying to get everyone ready and loaded in the car to go 30 minutes to the airport. I felt a little like the beginning part of the movie Home Alone!! As we were preparing (if you can call that preparing) to head out, Madalyn called us from my friends cell phone. My friend was also at the airport waiting for her daughter who had been on the same flight. She said that she would bring Madalyn home for us. I felt so grateful and knew that Heavenly Father was watching over Madalyn. Thank Heavens for Syd!! Madalyn came home and we all hugged and talked. It was a great reunion.

Bailey waiting to leave for the parade route.

We sat by our friends. Gannon loves my friend Wendi.

He sat with her most of the time.

Gannon, Wendi and I.

Carter loved this tank.

Look close, you can see Hayden!

These Apaka's kept falling to the ground.

They did not want to continue in the parade.

Our family.

Madalyn is home and we are so glad.

Welcome home!!

Bailey and Carter picked Madalyn these roses from our yard.

Madalyn brought home my birthday present.

Here I am pulling it out of the bag.

Surprise!! It is a nail detailer.

Gannon is using his birthday walker around the living room. The boys are pretending that he is running them over!!

LET IT BEGIN

2011-07-06T11:27:00.000-07:00

The summer is in full force!! 2 weeks ago the ball began to roll with a family reunion in Lincoln City. The kids and I drove to the coast to meet all of my 5 siblings with each of their families and my parents. We had a great time. We ate great food made by each family, we played pool, board games, Wii, Xbox, watched movies, took walks, exercised, slept, went to the beach, took family photos and laughed a lot. The kids loved seeing their cousins.

After leaving Lincoln City, I took the kids down to my parents house to spend more time with family. We did all of the same things for 4 more days.

After leaving my parents house, I drove to Eugene to spend time with family. I celebrated my birthday and enjoyed a pro rodeo. My brother blessed his little girl and we all gathered together again to celebrate the 4th of July. It has been a very busy but fun 2 weeks. The kids are not going to know what to do with themselves for the rest of this week. We love family!!

Cousins: Bailey, McKenna, Rachel and Josh.

All of the children gathering together.

Time to eat!

One of the favorite eating spots for the older kids.

Karaoke night at the reunion. Meg and R.J. did an awesome job!

The kids waiting to see the show.

Dave and Matt acting like themselves!!!!!

Grandpa singing 16 TONS.

Carda leading her group in a great song.

Sean and Melissa belting it out.

The boys playing in their room with the XBox.

Time to have a morning workout with our newly trained sister Christine.

Of course, I need to do hair!!!

Playing Ticket to Ride.

We all took a walk down to a beautiful beach. The kids had a ball.

Gannon getting in some much needed sleep.

The kids building sand castles.

Matt had to come later due to work. I was very happy to have him with me when he arrived.

Sandy and Christine.

The steps we took to get down to the beach.

Dan and Sandy.

Sean and Melissa with their sweet family.

This was my awesome team for the game night.

(At this very minute, I can't remember our team name!!)

Uncle Dan trying to steady the dice on the popsicle stick.

Stacking cups.

Dropping the cookie into the mouth.

Petroleum Jelly in the nose and into the cotton balls.

Keep that balloon in the air.

Shake that pedometer, Madalyn.

Bag lifting from the ground.

Prince Ali Abobwa.

Pantyhose on the head!! Not a pretty site Dave!!

Another game of Ticket to Ride. We had three games going at once. This was the winners table.

The kids playing games.

One morning, I took pictures of everyone and their families. I have a handsome family! Mom and Dad.

Dad with his 2 Shih Tzus.

Grandma with her dogs.

Dan and Sandy.

Dave and Christine.

Matt and Carda.

Matt and I.

Sean and Melissa.

Megan and R.J.

Grandkids with Mom and Dad.

My siblings.

Our wonderful reunion location.

The whole family!

Family Home Evening! Putting on the Armor of God!!

REEDSPORT

Waiting for the pinata.

Strong Bailey going after that pinata.

The little kids digging into their candy.

"look mom".

Dad putting up the big kids pinata.

Carter hitting at the pinata.

THE 1st ANNUAL MORRISON 5K

#3.

Everyone getting ready to hit the road.

Carter won 1st.

Hayden did awesome.

Bailey was a super star.

Meg gave it her all.

Christine and Melissa. Look at Melissa run with that baby.

We did it.

My dad's friend had horses so she let the children come and ride the miniature horses.

Great MOMS

Sean and Issac.

Hayden and Carter.

Bailey loves animals.

Most of the group.

I am sure that we were overwhelming for this nice lady.

Oh so fun!

Paige on the pony.

EUGENE

MY BIRTHDAY

On my birthday, Matt took me to a rodeo. I love bull riding!! We also went with the kids to a miniature golf place and a 50's Diner. Fun day!!

Tricia with our little Gannon.

Watching fireworks in Grandma Newell's front yard.

We gave the Pledge of Allegiance.

Paige and Natalie.

BABY BLESSING

ALBANY

Sean and Melissa with pretty little Hannah.

Morrison Family.

It was a very special afternoon with my family at Melissa's parents house.

Hannah did such a great job! She was very patient and let everyone take tons of pictures.

Having a little food after the blessing.

Nathan holding Grandma and Grandpa's puppies.

HAPPY 4th of JULY

I love the United States of America.

Having a BBQ in the backyard.

Bailey and Hunter getting their hot dogs ready.

Rachel eating a chip.

Dad wearing his Father's Day gift from Matt and I.

Look at that plate.

Oh yummy.

My brother gave me his Gonzaga t-shirt.

I love it!!

I wore it all day on the 4th.

Hayden loves hot dogs.

Another game of Ticket to Ride.

My sweet little boy.

We went to a local park before the fireworks began. The kids had a ball.

We took a little walk around the park before driving to the next event.

Gannon loves being outside.

Watching fireworks go off.

Happy 4th of July to all of you.

Matt's EPIC run!

2011-06-20T21:49:00.000-07:00

This weekend Matt joined 11 of his com padres from work and ran the Portland to Eugene EPIC run. It took them all about 29 hours to complete the race. Matt ran 3 legs, which totaled 16 miles. They had 2 vans that transported the teams. Their team name was School Dazed! He had a really good time challenging his body. He was exhausted afterwards and his muscles ached, but he survived and is gearing up for the Hood to Coast! Way to go Matt.

He is still smiling even though he only slept for a good 2 hours, ran 16 miles and ate sporadic meals.

Family was down in Eugene so we all raced to Alton Baker Park to cheer the last person on their 11 man team to cross the finish line.

It was raining, but everyone smiled and had a good attitude.

I love this man.

Some of the little kids sat on Aunt Fer Fer's bumper.

Madalyn braving the storm under an umbrella.

Newly engaged couple Michael and Jennifer.

Bailey and Paige being very positive.

This was Matt's van except for the tall guy in the orange jacket (Todd).

Everyone running in together at the end of a fun, exhausting, thrilling, sleep deprived, stinky bodies, achy legs, starving stomachs, rainy race!!!

"I DID IT"

WE DID IT.

Matt enjoyed another competition with his good friend Rich! Way to go you two.

My Baby is 1

2011-06-16T22:55:00.000-07:00

Today was a wonderful day. Gannon turned 1. I feel like Matt and I drove to the hospital yesterday to get induced and welcome our new little addition. He has brought so much joy to our lives. The kids adore him. In their eyes he can do no wrong. He has a sweet personality. He loves to be with his siblings and cuddle with Matt and I. Having Gannon has taught me greater patience and love. What a tremendous blessing he is in our lives.

June 16, 2010

The day after he was born.

June 2011. Carter giving him a ride in Paige's baby stroller.

Yesterday, I put him in his new big boy car seat.

He looked so adorable.

For breakfast, I made him pancakes. You can see by the look on his face that he is very excited.

Eating those pancakes.

Opening one of his gifts this morning.

Hayden showing Gannon his new book.

Today, I made a M & M cake.

I needed something quick.

The Wilhoits came over and we had a BBQ to celebrate Gannon.

Tricia and Gannon. He loves her.

My baby boy.

He gives kisses, but they are open mouth kisses.

Trying to give me another kiss.

The kids playing on the tramp with Matt.

Matt jumped with Gannon. He loved it.

Gannon relaxed his body and enjoyed the ride.

Tricia brought Gannon this little toy.

He sat waiting patiently for his cake to arrive.

Yeah for the cake!

Thank you son!

Paige blowing out the candle.

He was always clapping at himself.

I made an ugly cake that I let him dive into. He had a great time.

Look at all of that frosting. Oh so good, especially right before bedtime.

Bailey turns 7!

2011-06-11T11:53:00.000-07:00

I remember the day she was born (at least I better)!! She has been a wonderful daughter. This week was her birthday festival. The kids got out of school on Tuesday and so the next day, we headed to Eugene to see grandpa and celebrate Bailey's birthday. After leaving Eugene, we headed home to celebrate with friends. She had a great time at the pizza parlor with her friends. As a special request, she asked me to make her a Sponge Bob Squarepants cake!! I was very nervous, but I feel that I did a good job. Happy Birthday Bailey, we love you very much.

Birthday Breakfast! She wanted pancakes.

Before we went to Grandma's house, we went to the hospital to see Grandpa.

Some of the grand kids saying hello.

Dad is doing great.

Grandma with Gannon and William.

Bailey was very excited to see that Grandpa was ok.

It is a thumbs up.

The candy game at Grandmas.

Madalyn trying to pick the correct pieces of candy.

Ashlee goofing around.

The kids kept telling Grandma which piece of candy it was.

I kept looking at the kids so that I could try and beat the system!

Ben and Tyler gave Bailey a water shooter.

Bailey loves Barbie.

Bailey has been wanting Maximus from Tangled.

Fun birthday night.

I made her chocolate cupcakes with fudge frosting.

The next day we prepared for her friend party.

I worked on her Sponge Bob Squarepants cake.

Very fun!

There he is!

Our traditional picture with the cake maker.

Matt and Gannon at the pizza parlor. We were waiting for the pizza to arrive.

Our lovely daughter Madalyn.

Paige enjoyed riding the merry go round horse.

She stayed on it the majority of time.

The kids running around the play area.

Yummy pizza.

Blowing out the candles.

Bailey's friends!

By the end of the night, Gannon was ready to go to sleep.

I gave him his silky and he laid his head on it.

Bailey and Allie.

Bailey and Audri.

Bailey and Brynn.

Bailey and Dahlia.

The whole birthday crowd.

HONEYMAN

2011-06-04T12:08:00.000-07:00

This was the official Honeyman camping weekend. We all packed our cars, loaded up the bikes, braved the weather, ate great food (as always), hiked up to Heceta Head lighthouse and drove home to unload clothes full of sand. In between all of that we had a great time. My parents let Matt and I borrow their motor home again. What a blessing! We visited with friends and family from all of the other camp sites. The kids played all day long. They sat in the sandbox for hours digging and smoothing. Honeyman is a magical place that we as a family look forward to every May and September.

Dad enjoying a relaxing moment.

Ash, Jeff and William

Tyler

Grandma and Gannon hanging out.

I walked over to the sand box to find Paige in deep thought. I encouraged her to start digging and put a smile back on her face.

She obeyed.

William, Grandma, Gannon, Natalie and Paige by the sandbox.

My Matthew.

William and Gannon love each other. In this picture William wanted to hold on to Gannon and it was pretty cute.

We headed to Devil's Elbow and walked around the beach and hiked up to the lighthouse. I love the home that is close to the lighthouse. I would love to live in it. I put this picture in the post because of the white house on the hill.

One of the caves!

Carter, Matt, Gannon and Paige walking to the caves. Paige was very scared. She did not want to walk in the cave because she thought that their were monsters inside.

Pacific Coast.

Madalyn and Taylor.

Hayden

Some of the group.

Cousins being silly.

Grandma walking with Tyler and Paige.

Matt and Gannon on the trail.

Madalyn and Taylor were hiding behind a tree waiting for this group to arrive. They jumped out and tried to scare them, but they were laughing so hard they spoiled the surprise.

Ashlee and Tricia finding Madalyn and Taylor.

Carter on the trail.

Friends and Cousins by the lighthouse.

Hopkins family.

Madalyn and Grandma

Our family picture for Memorial Day 2011. We are tucked next to the lighthouse.