The Adventures From The Peterson Pad

Happy Valentine's Day

2012-02-15T21:02:00.001-08:00

We had a great day...Our favorite tradition is making chocolate dipped strawberries! Libby helped me dip them all this year & they were yummy!

You can find the recipe HERE.

Tyler enjoyed serving them for dessert!

And Sophie ENJOYED eating them!
She says, "Mmm" when she likes how something tastes. It's so cute!

Libby was happy with her gift from her pen pal in Japan!

Steve liked his new t-shirt from us...I can never get a normal smile out of him though!

I enjoyed my chocolates...especially the marsipan ones!

These two were actually glad to go with us to Ikea to return something...because they wanted cinnamon rolls for their dessert!

I LOVE all of my special "Valentine's"
They make everyday...
A Gift!!

They are growing to0 fast though...
I was making last year's blog into a book the other night & I came across the Valentine's Day post. I am so surprised how things change in just one year!

My kids have gotten SO big!
2011

2012

I think Sophie's changed the most though,
Here she is last year...

And here she is now..
One of my favorite changes from last year!!

Happy Valentine's Day!!

Family Pictures...

2012-01-14T19:56:00.000-08:00

Our Family...

The kids...

The Girls...

The Boys...

Our friend Denise took our pictures in December. You can see more of her work at http://fancypantsportraits.com/

She specializes in children's portraits, but was doing a special at Christmas, so we were able to get some images for our Christmas cards. We were happy with how they turned out!

Sophie: 8 Months Old

2012-01-06T09:44:00.000-08:00

Just after Christmas,

Sophie turned 8 months old...She is growing so fast!

Lets just say, she is getting very busy...even as I type this she keeps pushing all the buttons on the keyboard!
Then if I put her on the floor, she crawls under the desk to get the cords!

She also started crawling this week...she's been scooting for a while, but now she is truly crawling all over the place.
Now there will be no rest for me...she already gets into everything!

We love her funny smile...we call it her "bitter beer" face. Add that smile to the "growling" she does & you can't help but smile yourself!
She really has been such a FUN baby! She is the center of all of our attention...let's just say she is very LOVED by everyone in our family!

A few more things about Sophie:
*She loves music...When ever she hears it, she starts bobbing her head & dancing!
*She also gives high fives!
*She loves to spit bubbles with her mouth.
She thinks it's pretty funny...

*She claps & says, "yay"! It's so cute!
*She waves bye-bye
*When she's really excited she actually "growls" I have to get it on video...it's funny!
*Her smile melts our hearts!

*She is starting to love baby food...sweet potato/Turkey is her favorite.

*She puts EVERYTHING in her mouth! She can always seem to find the tiniest thing on the floor & puts it right in her mouth.
*She now has her 2 bottom teeth.
*She really is a happy & sweet girl!

Here's a little video of her...

Luckily, with Libby's warning we didn't catch the little streaker running by on video!

New Year's Eve

2012-01-06T09:21:00.001-08:00

2012

It's hard to believe another year has come & gone...
For some reason it wasn't the most exciting New Year's Eve. For the first time, I was ready to celebrate at 10:00pm with New York and call it good! We did hang in there until midnight though & had a pretty good time.

We ate good food...
If you can't tell by Tyler's face....since his food is all over it!

The kids hung out & played games...
Zack & Tyler are loving their pogo sticks they bought with Christmas money.
They are getting pretty good....
Tyler might need to be a little heavier, but he never gives up!
Then my aunt Alayna helped him out...this was quite comical to watch!
Then we were entertained by some great music...
Jazzy & Libby
We celebrated with New York at 10:00pm

Wishing it was midnight here...
Then it finally arrived & we rang in the NEW YEAR!

We had some horns, poppers & sparklers.

It was freezing, so it didn't last too long!

Let's hope 2012 is a wonderful year... full of much happiness!
Happy New Year!!

Christmas 2011

2011-12-26T17:02:00.001-08:00

We had a wonderful Christmas!

Christmas morning...
My kids were so excited!

They had reason to be...they were pretty spoiled!

Libby

Sophie

Tyler

Zack

Then we got ready for church & enjoyed a wonderful Christmas meeting. My kids sang a few songs with the Primary, which is always fun to hear!

We took a few pictures after church in their nice clothes...

Then the dog felt left out & walked over, sat down & actually "posed" for a few pictures!

Now we have everyone in the picture...he even smiled!

Sophie was SO excited for her first Christmas!

I can't believe she's almost 8 months old already...

Then we rushed to my parent's house for some more partying.

I love these two...they sure spoil all of us!

My boys are excited when they get anything Bey Blades...

My Mom sure knows what I love...

I have a supply to last me quite some time!

Sophie liked her present too!

Libby got this cute hat that was made by Christine from Switzerland...she loves it! Those two had a special bond when she came to visit this summer!

Then it seemed most of the boys spent some time playing with all of their electronic devices!

Josh, John, Bailey, Dallin

Dallin & Jacob

Wyatt

I think Steve found a new game he really likes...

Brooklyn couldn't get enough of holding Sophie.

The "girls" had fun playing too!

Then we enjoyed a yummy dinner, thanks to my wonderful mom!
I don't know how she does everything!!

Sam found my camera....
I love it, after every party I go through the pictures & I find a self portrait of him!

STAR WARS FUN

Josh was a Jedi Master when it came to R2-D2....he listened well to all of his commands!

Zack was busting some moves to R2-D2's Dance program...
I really need to capture this on video!!

John was perfecting his light saber skills!
Then Tyler kept saying mom take a picture of this...

With his favorite bud, Josh!
Then he'd say, "take a picture of this!"

Somebody likes his picture taken!

These kids always give me a good laugh!

We hope you had a Merry Christmas too!

Christmas Eve 2011

2011-12-25T23:30:00.000-08:00

We always celebrate Christmas Eve at my parent's house with my Dad's Brother & his family.
My dad actually came to America from Norway when he was 6 years old, so we have always celebrated with Norwegian Christmas customs.

This is my Uncle Roy, Aunt Anne, Cousin Erik & his daughter Lilly.
My aunt always brings the desserts, which always includes rice pudding with raspberry sauce...whoever gets the almond in their pudding wins the marsipan pig. My sister Sherry was the lucky winner this year!

Since I was little Santa & his elf helpers passed out the presents. We always sing her comes Santa Clause & he knocks at the door. My kids got to play the parts this year.

Libby

Jazzy & Zack were the reindeer helpers this year!

Sophie LOVED Santa...

I think she new it was her favorite sister, Libby!

She is such a happy baby...we can't get enough of her smiles & growls!

I think Bailey & Dallin liked their new combs...

Steve & Zack

Best buds...Shelly & Tyler
We always eat our yummy dinner & hang out.

Dad, Shane & Denette

We also celebrate Dave's birthday each Christmas Eve.

Happy Birthday Dave!
When we asked how old he was this year he replied, " 18 forever!"

Then the kids all get to open a gift from their parents...new pajamas.

Jazzy, John & Josh

John & Josh got matching ones this year!

My kids...Zack, Libby, Sophie & Tyler
Unfortunately, Shane had already left when remembered to take pictures of the new P.J's.
Luckily for them...they missed my laugh attack! I was laughing so hard tears were streaming down my face!
It started out normal & progressed to CRAZY!!

The group picture.
Then I told them to do a silly face & we got this....

And This...

And this....

And This...

Then we took one of just the boys...

This is were the laugh attack started!

Silly turned to SCARY...

A little joking around...

Look at the fear on Tyler's face as he cuddles into Josh!

Oh Boy, They crack me up!

Then we headed home & put out our cookies & salad for Santa & his Reindeer...

With so much excitement that Santa was on his way!

Andersen & Peterson Christmas Parties

2011-12-25T23:29:00.000-08:00

Pictures to come soon...I'll finish updating this one tomorrow when I get the pictures off steve's phone.

Gingerbread Houses...

2011-12-25T23:20:00.000-08:00

My kids look forward to making their gingerbread house every year...Tyler was the one that kept persisting we needed to make it! We finally did get around to it & they did a great job!

Adding the candy...

All finished!

Zack had made one at scouts earlier that week.

They do look very cute & smell pretty good too!

It looks like Mickey liked the smell too...luckily he couldn't reach it for a taste!

Christmas Piano Recital

2011-12-20T16:39:00.000-08:00

This year Libby & Zack's Christmas recital was at a rest home downtown.

They did a great job!

Libby played "Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy"
And
Zack played "We Wish You a Merry Christmas"

This was Zack's first recital...he started playing in April. He loves it!

They have a great teacher who makes it so fun...

Here is the video of them playing:

School Reports...

2011-12-15T21:05:00.000-08:00

We have had a very busy December, which has included A LOT of homework.

Libby is in 5th grade so they do state reports...she got to do NEW YORK.
I think after this project she is officially ready for college! :)
They had to do a report, a binder, a Power Point presentation, a poster & a 20 minute oral report.

She also dressed up as the Statue Of Liberty!

Here she is at the "state fair" where the whole school came & she shared her information.
As a parent, I am so lucky to have her...she literally did it on her own! She did a great job!

Then Zack got assigned to do a report on Sweden & how they celebrate Christmas.

Here is his report with the flag he made.
He literally worked on this for over 3 hours trying to finish it in one night...by some miracle, he did it!

He did a good job on his oral report too.

This is the Swedish doll he made.

He talked about St. Lucia Day & actually gave his report on that day...December 13th!
He thought that was pretty cool!

Thank goodness tomorrow is the last day of school before Christmas Break, at least for the homework part. I can't believe Christmas is almost here! I hope things will slow down a bit so we can enjoy it!

Libby's Surgery....

2011-12-05T21:41:00.000-08:00

We definitely started our December off with craziness...Liberty had to have oral surgery.

About a month ago we went to the orthodontist to get her bottom braces put on. When they took the x-ray it showed there was a dark circle under her bottom teeth in the gums. It had grown from the last time she'd had an x-ray & he said it was probably a bone cyst, which is just an empty space. It is usually caused by some kind of trauma like a fall. We couldn't recall a time when she had bumped her chin, but he wouldn't put the braces on until we had it checked. If he started shifting her teeth the root of a tooth could go in the space and cause problems. We are so glad we have a good orthodontist!

We got an appointment with the oral surgeon & surgery had to be done. If we didn't have it fixed, it could get bigger & start to deform her chin. She could also be chewing on something as soft as a marshmallow & her jaw could completely break!

Last Thursday her surgery was done...she was SO brave! She really is amazing for her age...no crying or complaining at all! We are so glad it is over!

Here she is in the waiting room.
Her surgery was suppose to be at 2:10pm & they were running behind & didn't start until like 4:00pm. She was starving, but as you can see...still smiling!

Here she is finally getting some food!

She can only eat "soft" food for a few weeks....she started with mash potatoes & a strawberry-banana shake. The poor thing could hardly talk because her mouth & tongue were so swollen.

We are so grateful everything went well & she is recovering well.
Luckily, when they got in there it was an empty space & there wasn't anything to have removed or biopsied. They had to cut it open, stir it around & make it bleed & stitch her back up. This somehow fixes the problem. She has A LOT of stitches & got to sport this great chin strap for a few days...boy was she glad to take that off.

I really am so impressed with how well she has done...She is beautiful from the inside out!
I don't know what we'd do without this sweet girl in our lives...she is such a blessing!!

Our "little" Viking....

2011-11-30T09:24:00.000-08:00

You can definitely tell that Sophie has two brothers that love to "decorate" her too!

I walked in the room & found her like this...

They thought it was pretty funny...

She did look quite cute...

The look on her face says it all...Do I really have to be the center of everyone's attention??
We all love this little Viking!!

Pinewood Derby...

2011-11-19T22:09:00.000-08:00

Now that Zack is eight he is in Cub Scouts. He LOVES it! On Thursday, he participated in his first Pinewood Derby...it was pretty exciting!

He had a lot of fun working on the car.

They are already planning for next year!

Zack decided to paint it yellow with blue & green stripes.

Here they are getting it on the track...

His is the yellow one on the right...

It was a good race....

Zack's best friend actually won the whole championship!

Tyler can't wait to be a Cub Scout now!

Zack won the award for most original design...
He added a flag to the hood & his initial "Z" with the numbers "93" on the top.
It was a fun night!

Grandma & Grandpa Are Back...

2011-11-19T22:00:00.000-08:00

November 13, 2011

Grandma & Grandpa Peterson gave their homecoming talks last Sunday.
They had been serving a temple mission in Nauvoo, Illinois for the last 18 months.
When they first left, it was only going to be for 6 months so they could help during the busy pageant months. They ended up loving it so much, that when they were asked to extend, they accepted. They did a great job!!

Grandma, Grandpa, Sophie, Zack, Libby & Tyler

Welcome Home! We love you!!

Halloween 2011

2011-11-06T15:33:00.000-08:00

Our day started out with the Halloween Parade at school....

Libby as Hermione

Zack as a woopie cushion

It was cute, quite a few of the little boys in the parade would stop at Tyler & say, "Look there is the Bey Blade guy!"

Halloween Night...

All ready for trick or treating!

Each of the kids in their costumes...

Libby finished all the Harry Potter books last year, so she wanted to be Hermione.

Zack cracks me up....this was a great costume!

Tyler as Ginka from the cartoon Bey Blades...3,2,1 let it rip!!

Sophie's first Halloween...she's definitely our little "pumpkin"!

All 4 together...

On their way out the door...

They got a lot of candy...

Even cotton candy!!
It was a fun day & night...Happy Halloween!!

Fun Weekend...

2011-10-31T15:33:00.000-07:00

It started with my birthday on Friday...

I was spoiled...
My kids gave me sweet cards & I got $35 dollars, since I'm now 35!

I love their cute messages!

Then we went to lunch & Gardner's Village to see the witches...The kids even had the day off!

It was a beautiful day!

It is a little "stinky" that I'm getting so old, but it was a great day!

That night we went to dinner at Spaghetti Factory...

Then Shelly was so sweet & babysat so Steve & I could go see Footloose.

It was a great day!!

SATURDAY....
We carved our pumpkins.

They were excited...

Libby carved Minnie Mouse

Zack carved a Skeleton

Tyler carved Ginka from Bey Blades.

Sophie just watched

Steve broke out the power tools to speed things along!

Happy Halloween!!

SUNDAY....
We had Birthday & Halloween celebrations.

Starting with my dad there is a birthday every other day!
My dad's is October 26th, I'm the 28th, John & Marli the 30th and Shane's is on November 2nd

Shane made the yummy marsipan eye-ball cake!

Shane & Wyatt

I told him to blow the candles out slowly...so I could get a picture.
I got it!

My turn...

Marli's turn...

John is 17!

We made the "70" out of 2 candles & an "o" from the boo napkin!
Happy Birthday Everyone!!

Then came the costumes...

All of the CrAzY kids!!

I love this one...look at Libby's face!

Strike a pose!

Crazy faces...
Now it's time to go get ready for Halloween Night!!!

Happy Birthday Dad!!

2011-10-31T15:18:00.000-07:00

October 26, 2011

My cute dad turned "70" this year!

Sophie turned 6 months old today too! We celebrated at Texas Roadhouse.
When I get the photos off my phone....My dad even got on the saddle.

Roy, Anne & Erik joined us for dinner too.

We LOVE you dad!
Happy Birthday!

Sophie Is 6 Months Old...

2011-10-27T22:15:00.000-07:00

How could my baby already be 6 months old???

She is growing SO fast...it makes me a little sad.

But,

She is getting to a stage I LOVE!

Her little personality is getting to be so cute & funny.

We love her giggles...

How she yells out & "talks" to us.

Her smile...

Her cute painted toes...

How she loves her hands...

She'll move them & watch them like they're a toy.

She's a maniac in her jumper!

There is a video of this at the bottom of this post.

She has a quick grip...she'll grab & eat whatever is in front of her (especially paper)!

I love the way she attacks the spoon when she eats.

I have to get a video of this.

How she is so proud of herself when she does something new.

I love that she sleeps at night, but

My favorite thing...the huge smile she gives me EVERY morning!

This baby absolutely melts my heart....She is such a gift!!

We LOVE you Sophie!

Sorry it's sideways...I need to work on my camera skills! ;)

Ice Skating...

2011-10-23T15:17:00.000-07:00

We took the kids ice skating for the first time last year. They absolutely loved it!

Libby has been begging to go ever since...you can guess who is dying to have lessons!

That would be Libby!
We had such a crazy-busy week...Steve had something EVERY night. So we spent the day together & ended it with ice skating. It was a great day!

Steve was their skating buddy...

While me and Sophie cheered them on & took pictures!

Zack was cracking me up with his moves!

These two still have a lot of fun together!

Tyler kept stopping by to say "Hi" to me & Sophie.

So would Steve...

Then they'd be off again...

Zack stopped by to entertain Sophie with a picture...

Because she got a little bored & started "un-decorating" herself!
She almost got it off ...I knew this day would eventually come. :(

It was a fun night!
We finally got to see Steve this week!

Picking out Pumpkins...

2011-10-17T22:55:00.001-07:00

It was a beautiful day on Saturday!

After Libby's last soccer game we went to lunch & picked out our pumpkins!

The kids were so excited.

Zack loaded up his wagon...

Libby filled hers up...

Tyler pulled that load all over the place!

I'm surprised they survived the trip to the car...

A couple of times we thought the whole wagon would tip!

Sophie's first time getting pumpkins...she wasn't sure if she should smile or not!

They had a great time & our porch is looking festive!

They are already talking about what they will carve...

I LOVE the Fall!!

A man of many faces...

2011-10-06T20:13:00.000-07:00

Tyler is such a funny boy. He LOVES to dress up as his favorite characters. It usually relates to a show or movie he likes. It started when he was tiny & would say his full name was Tyler Max "Lightning McQueen" Peterson, then he was Mr. Miagi from Karate Kid for a while. Now we have moved on to a few new ones. Here are a few of his favorites...

This was on his 4th birthday...he absolutely LOVED "How To Train Your Dragon".

Here he is as the viking, "Hiccup".

Then he moved on to the "Incredibles"

Here he is as "Dash".
He wore this outfit daily for quite some time!

Then he turned into Harry Potter & would sport these glasses & make me draw a lightning bolt on his forehead...EVERYDAY!

His new obsession is Bey Blades. He, Zack & their friend Noah will play this for hours. It's also a cartoon they watch on Netflicks. This is his favorite Character in the show...

"Ginka Hagana"
I hope this outfit lasts until Halloween...somebody wears it EVERYDAY!

This kid cracks me up! Just look at that cute smile!
We love you Tyler Max "Lightning McQueen" Peterson!!

2011-09-13T21:16:00.000-07:00

Sophie is now 4 1/2 months old...I feel like she is growing too fast!

This baby has been such a joy! I call her my "angel" baby. I know this will be our last baby & I have to admit it makes me a little sad. I'm am completely savoring everything about her. When I went to put away her first set of clothes that are now too small, I almost had a tear in my eye. Like I keep saying,
she is growing way too fast! But one thing is for sure we are all enjoying this sweet girl!

Here she is the day after she was born...

My mom gave her this cute hat
and it now fits!

We LOVE her smile!!

She can now roll over all by herself...

I think she is already teething...
She's always grinding her gums together & drooling!

I love her little hands & how she plays with them, stares at them & eats them!

She started eating rice cereal...she' very interested in food!

I love to listen to her in the mornings when she wakes up babbling & talking to herself. Then when you walk in the room she smiles & wiggles so you'll pick her up...it melts my heart!

I also love her big, blue eyes & her cute laugh.
Every time we go to video her laugh she stops when we pull out the camera...we'll capture it eventually.
I saw a quote today that I loved...
"A child fills a place in your heart that you never knew was empty."
This is how I feel about each of my kids. Each little soul makes my heart feel like it will burst sometimes. They are such a gift, I will always treasure!!

Firsts...

2011-09-04T21:12:00.001-07:00

Our kids are growing up.
Libby got her eyes dilated for the first time, I didn't get the picture with her "cool" shades, but these are her new glasses.

She also got her 1st bird, Pikachu for her birthday!

Zack had his first day of Scouts...

He loves it!

Tyler learned how to ride his bike!

Without training wheels.

Steve got to run up & down the sidewalk with him for a few nights, but he finally caught on.

He had his first accident soon after these pictures, but he still loves it!

Sophie is our little centerpiece while we eat.
She has become very interested in what we are eating.

She finally got to try out rice cereal.
I can't believe she is already 4 months old!
Time seems to be flying by!!

Here is a video of Tyler on his bike...He cracks me up!

Summer's officially over...

2011-08-22T21:25:00.000-07:00

This summer seemed to fly right by. We didn't do quite as much as usual, but it seemed to stay pretty busy.

Summer 2011

The fun started with Lagoon in June.

We did some swimming

We Blessed Sophie

We celebrated Liberty's 10th birthday

Libby & Zack Learned how to knee-board

And they got to go boating with their cousins...

We went camping once.

Steve scared us to death one morning & was having problems with his colitis. I ended up calling 911 & he took a ride in the ambulance to the hospital. After 5 hours in Emergency he finally had surgery & was OK. We were blessed once again!

We celebrated Zack's 8th birthday & baptism.

I seriously can't believe he is eight!

And of course we truly enjoyed our late nights & sleeping in!

But all great things come to an end & school started today!
Off to our next adventure...homework!

Libby is in 5th grade & has Ms. Dillon

Zack is in 3rd grade & has Ms. Law

Tyler, Zack, Jasmine & Libby
August 22, 2011

2011-08-07T23:31:00.000-07:00

Zack was baptized on Saturday, August 6th 2011

He was SO excited!

Steve baptized & confirmed him.

Our family

When they spotlighted Zack these are a few things they said...

His favorite primary song is "Once there was a Snowman"
His favorite scripture story is Daniel in the lions den.
His favorite thing to do is play with his best friend Noah.
He likes to spend time with his family boating.
He is excited to be baptized because it is cool!

Zack had a lot of love & support for his special day.

We have a huge family...there are still about 30 family members missing.
We celebrated some more at our house.
He wanted a mint chocolate chip ice cream cake.

He is excited to have his own set of scriptures.

Steve & Zack in their suits.

These two are still such great friends!

We were all very excited for Zack to officially be a member of the church.

You are one special kid!! We absolutely adore you!!
Congratulations!!

Happy Birthday Zack!!

2011-08-07T22:16:00.001-07:00

August 5, 2003

August 5, 2011

We celebrated his birthday for a few days...it started the night before with dinner at Texas Roadhouse.

On the saddle with his ice cream.
It's blurry because it was from my phone.

Zack & Grandpa

Then for his real birthday we had lunch at Chuck-a-Rama (his favorite)

Grandma & Shelly gave him his presents there.

Then we went shopping for a suit for his baptism the next day!

Eight things we love about Zack...
1-He is very kind hearted.
2- He always thinks of others.
3- He lets Tyler tag along with him everywhere.
4- I LOVE his dimples when he smiles.
5- He is very smart.
6- He'll randomly share facts that none of us knew.
7- He's very unselfish...he rarely asks for much.
8- We especially love that he is in our family!!!

Happy 8th birthday!! We Love you!!

More 4th of July...

2011-07-15T07:25:00.000-07:00

Every 4th we celebrate two of our favorite things...America & Our "sweet" Liberty!!

Here she is with her cheesecake...always her favorite!

I seriously can't believe she is already ten!

She is growing up too fast!

It seems like yesterday that you were this small...
This is actually Sophie, but it looks just like you! I even catch myself calling her Libby!
We definitely had another great party....

Your Dad & John put on a great show!
Luckily we have these 2 pyro's in the family!
Your dad even got a new torch...

And he added a few more ladders this year!

He actually gathers quite the crowd...

Even a little rain didn't stop the show, we just moved to the garage.

Shane & Denette

Sam, Marli, Adam & Davey

Jazzy, Libby & Tyler

Firework fun...

More Pictures...
I know this is probably a picture overload, but I've been making my blog into books, so this is my "scrapbook" of memories.

Libby & Jazzy enjoying their cupcakes.

My cute Tyler Man

My crazy Steve...

Me & Steve

Grandma & Grandpa

Dallin, Bailey & Josh
(The ice cream man in the background...I think he was confused to which holiday it was because his van was playing Christmas music!)

Davey, Zack, Wyatt & Adam

Porter, Wyatt & Tyler

Libby & Jazzy

John, Josh, Dallin & Wyatt

Tyler

Zack

Libby & Uncle Dave

Sophie even got in on the fun!

Tyler & Zack

Grandma, Libby, Sophie & Me
I was trying to get a picture of Sherry & her kids

The first one Steve came out the door...

Then Tyler walked up & wanted to be in the picture...

We finally got it..
Josh, Jazzy, Sherry & John

Sophie's First 4th of July

Ok no more pictures...
Libby was getting tired of them. If you can't tell by her face.

Alright, I see you've had enough!!

Happy 4th of July!!!

Happy Birthday, Miss Liberty!!

2011-07-07T23:29:00.001-07:00

July 4th 2001

July 4th 2011

I can't believe it has already been "10" years since we brought you home from the hospital!

We were SO grateful to finally have you here!!
You truly are such an amazing girl! We Love you VERY much!!

Since you are now 10 here is a list of
Ten things we adore about you...
1-You truly are SWEET & KIND!
2-You are smart!
3-You are helpful!
4-You try new things!
5-You are a great big sister!

Zack, Tyler & Sophie absolutely LOVE you!
6-You are a good friend!
7-You are an excellent reader (It is 12:30 at night and you are still reading a book)
8-You really care for those around you!
9-You are creative!
10-We love your smile!!

And most of all we are so glad you are part of our family!!!

Happy Birthday Liberty!!

I will have to blog about your party tomorrow...it is now time for me to tell you to put the book down & get to bed!! Some things never change...you have always been a night owl!!

Sophie's Blessing...

2011-06-26T22:53:00.000-07:00

Our family

June 26, 2011

Sophie wore the same dress that Libby & Jasmine wore.
It was beautiful! It was a little bit itchy & hot...so after the blessing it soon came off!

Libby, Sophie, Jasmine
We are so blessed to have such a supportive family. Even though a lot of our family has moved out of town we have a big group of people who came to share your special day.
Here are a few pictures...

Sisters...

Grandma & Pa-Pa Steen
Grandma & Grandpa Peterson wish they could have
been there, but they are still serving their mission in Nauvoo.

Shane & Denette, Shelly & Dave, Sam & Marli, John, Bailey & Grandpa

Aunt Alayna

Sherry & Jasmine...
Sherry gave you a onesie that says, "Auntie loves you" it is so cute!

Aunt Becky & your cousins Simeon, Debbie & Isaac

Aunt Julie

It was a beautiful day & we are very lucky to have you!!!

Happy Father's Day!

2011-06-26T22:09:00.001-07:00

I'm SO grateful for my dad!

He has been so good to me my whole life.
I don't think you really understand all your parents do for you until you are older & have kids yourself. My dad has given me a great example of what it means to be a hard worker, generous, determined & also how to have fun.

He is SO good to my family & my kids sure love him too!
I know he would do anything to help us & he definitely has come through when we have needed him. A few examples of this are... One day when I was in college and didn't have a lot of extra money, he surprised me & had taken my car to get the oil changed & when I got in the gas tank was also full ...I was so thankful! Another time I will always be so grateful was when Zack was 2 weeks old. Steve was in Iraq & Zack was sick. He had a temperature that was over a 100 degrees & he was really hard to wake up. We ended up having to take him up to Primary Children's Hospital. My dad drove me & when we got there they had to do a spinal tap. I couldn't stay in the room for it, but my dad did. My mom & I could hear him screaming clear down the hall way. Then it didn't work, so they had to do it again. I was kind of freaking out, but my dad was there for him & they were best buds after that!

Zack, Sophie & Grandpa
WE LOVE YOU DAD!!

I have also been very blessed to have married someone who has turned out to be a great dad!

My kids adore him!
This is a picture of them giving him breakfast in bed & their Father's Day gifts. Steve loves to spoil all of us, so they enjoyed having the day to spoil him a little.

Steve is also a good example of what it means to work hard & how to have fun.

We are So thankful for all you do for us!!! We Love you!

On Father's day we went to my parent's house for dinner & my dad's cousin was visiting from Switzerland. We haven't seen him since 1985. We really enjoyed spending the evening with him & his sweet wife Christine.

Christine, Gunnar & my Dad

Gunnar, Christine, Mom & Dad.

Happy Father's Day!

Abundance Of Love....

2011-06-18T09:10:00.001-07:00

My sweet Aunt Anina gives me one of these beautiful figurines each time I have a baby.
This is the one she gave me for Sophie.
The name of this one is "Abundance of Love".
She couldn't have picked a better one, because this baby is SO loved!!

I'll come in the room & all three of them will be surrounding her.

They sing & talk to her & even fight over her a little!

Look how cute...Zack is even kissing her hand.

This sweet baby has definitely smitten all of us...

Her daddy...

Me...

Libby....

Zack...

And Tyler...
I always say she is "scrumptious" you can't help yourself...you hold her & it seems she always needs a little squeeze & a kiss!

We are so thankful she came to our family!!

LAGOON 2011

2011-06-14T22:10:00.000-07:00

On Friday, we went to Steve's work Lagoon Day....Our kids look forward to this every year. We always have so much fun!

Zack, Libby & Tyler

Sophie's first Lagoon Day...6 weeks old.
The kids were SO good this year...they were very patient & would wait for each other to take turns on the rides. Tyler was too short for most of the big ones & Libby was too tall for most of the kiddie rides this year & in between I had to feed the baby.

Zack & Tyler on the spaceships...
Zack was nice to go with Tyler on some of the kiddie rides.

The bumper cars...

Tyler cried when Zack & Libby went on the big bumper cars...maybe next year he'll be tall enough.

Driving the cars...

I think Zack will be too tall next year to go on these...

He & Libby went on the Colossus for the first time this year.

Zack even had to seat by a stranger, but He & Libby LOVED it!

Libby & Tyler on the swings...

Puff the magic dragon..

Probably one of Tyler's favorite rides.

The train...

Steve doesn't do spinning rides,

So I took the kids on the Tilt-A-Whirl & Music Express...

Our favorite part at the end...we share cinnamon rolls, a caramel apple & an Icee!
My favorite picture of all...

Now this is a sign of a a fun day...
They all fall asleep on the way home!

Sophie's newborn pictures...

2011-05-25T15:05:00.001-07:00

SOPHIE...2 days old

These are the photos that were taken at the hospital.

Libby found out that Sophie means "wise"

I think she looks wise in this picture!

I LOVE her little feet...

Her little hands...

And her cheeks...

I love this sweet girl!

2011-05-21T07:16:00.001-07:00

Sophie got to meet Grandma & Grandpa Peterson...

They are currently serving a mission in Nauvoo, Illinois.

They were able to come back home for a few days so they could attend a funeral.

We were able to have dinner with them on Monday & on Wednesday morning they stopped by for a few minutes before they were heading back to the airport. It was so nice to see you! We Love You!!

Mother's Day

2011-05-15T21:11:00.001-07:00

Shauna Lee, Sophie Lee, Sally Lee & Liberty Lee

I have the best mom...She really is the greatest example I have to look up to!! I love her SO much & I'm so grateful for all she does for me. She's the kind of person that just randomly does acts of kindness. Like when I came home from the hospital my house was all cleaned with nice fresh vacuum tracks (which she knows I love). She had gotten a few groceries & she had started laundry & brought it all back cleaned & folded! She did all of this & still got up early to come for the delivery of Sophie. When she came she also brought Steve breakfast. We all love you so much & we are SO grateful for you!!

Happy Mother's Day!

My family made my Mother's Day very nice too!

I got breakfast & homemade presents from the kids...

Tyler vacuumed...

Libby mopped the wood...

Zack cleaned all the tile...
That was a wonderful gift all by itself!

I feel VERY blessed to be the mother of these cute & sweet kids!!

2011-05-08T10:03:00.000-07:00

More pictures of Sophie

Visitors at the hospital...

Grandpa Steen...

He loves you so much already!!

Libby was so excited she didn't even take off her coat!

Tyler is now a BIG brother...he has plans to teach her a lot of things!

Zack is so excited & has been SO sweet with her!

It's funny how you can just stare at babies for hours...

Aunt Sherry was so glad to meet you too!

Jasmine...she will be like a second sister too Sophie!

Shelly
We love you Shelly....she took care of my kids for a few days & came in the middle of the night when my contractions started. I don't know what I'd do without you!

Josh helped Shelly take care of our kids too...they love him!
My mom & Aunt Alayna also came to the hospital & kept me company...I still need a picture of them!

SOPHIE'S FIRST BATH...

She was pretty mad!

Then she calmed down & enjoyed it.

All fresh with her FIRST bow in her hair!!
If you can't tell...

We are SO excited to "decorate" you!
Grandma brought you this hat...it's a little too big yet, but it looks so cute!!

ANOTHER DAY AT THE HOSPITAL...

The first day Tyler came to see me, I still had on the gown & he walks in & looks at me and says, "Mom, when you come home will you wear your regular clothes?" He was kind of afraid of me!
When he came the next day, he was so glad to see I had my clothes on. He even sat by me, ate lunch & watched a few cartoons with me!

Then he was practicing writing Sophie's name on the board.

Your last night at the hospital they give the parents a special dinner...It was surprisingly very good for hospital food!!

Then we got to go home on Thursday...

Steve getting her ready to go home

Then once we got home we found out she had jaundice really bad. She was almost to the critical point on the chart...which of course freaked me out! We had to take her everyday to the hospital for blood work & had to keep her under lights. By Sunday afternoon we were able to stop the light treatment & we'll find out on her 2 week appointment how she is doing. I think she is doing a lot better because the whites of her eyes aren't yellow anymore.

She is such a good baby...
Thank heavens she would stay in her "tanning" bed so her levels went down!

See the blue light underneath her...That was a little light pad we'd use when you took her out to feed her. We had to feed her a lot because that helps clear the jaundice.

It's amazing how much you love & worry about your baby from the start. They are SO much work, but SO worth it!!

She is definitely our "little sweetie"!!!

Sophie Lee Peterson

2011-05-02T13:59:00.000-07:00

SHE'S HERE!!

Sophie Lee Peterson
Born: April 26, 2011
Weighing: 7 pounds 15 ounces
Length: 19.5 inches

This Labor was the longest out of all of my kids...it was a blessing though because I had Group B Strep & needed at least 4 hours of antibiotics before I delivered. It usually takes me 2-3 hours & this was was 8 1/2 hours.

I got a really heavy dose with my epidural, which I didn't like at all...I hate not having any feeling in my legs. I think they did that to see if it might slow my labor down.

This is Dr. Walker & she has delivered all of my kids....Love her!!

We are also so glad my mom has always been there to help.
Steve was grateful for the breakfast she brought him.

This was just before we left to go to the hospital...We got there at 2:00am and they decided to keep me there & she arrived at 10:35am.

We are SO happy she is here!!

Sophie & her daddy!

Her biggest fans...

Tyler & Zack

Libby FINALLY got her sister!!

It's amazing how much we already love you Sophie!!

Happy Easter 2011

2011-04-25T19:22:00.001-07:00

Happy Easter!

We colored eggs...

Found Easter eggs...

Which lead to...

Our Easter Baskets...

Steve made us pancakes...

He even made a little one for Libby's Rapunzel barbie!

We dressed up for church...

Miss Liberty...

Zack

Tyler

Our kids had a great day!!!
We ended it at Grandma & Pa-Pa Steen's house for dinner & an Easter egg hunt...

A few more pictures of our crazy kids...

HAPPY EASTER!!!

Libby's 4th Grade Program

2011-04-20T17:19:00.001-07:00

Last Thursday was Libby's 4th grade program. It was all about UTAH. She did a great job!

They sang songs & danced....

They played their recorders...

Jasmine is in her class this year too & she also did a great job!

They both had speaking parts too.

Good Job, girls!!

Sophie's Room

2011-04-14T14:22:00.000-07:00

We are now ready for her to come...

Steve finished painting,
We got the carpets cleaned,
The crib is up,
and we have diapers, clean clothes & blankets.
I went to the doctor yesterday & anytime is safe for her to come now.
I was 80% effaced & dilated to a 2....I'm guessing she'll come some time at the end of April, but you never know.

I LOVE her room!!

Steve did a great job on the wood & paint!

This is the CUTEST quilt my sister-in-law Denette made for me.
She didn't even know my colors & it turned out perfect. We also did a bird theme & some of the fabric has little birds.

I modge-podged some wood letters to spell her name...

This is the crib & cute bird clock. I still have a few more things to do....I found the cutest dresser on KSL for $20.00 that I'll stain after she gets here.

Tyler thinks it's pretty "incredible" too!
This is pretty much what our "Dash" wears everyday now!

Happy Birthday, Steve!!

2011-04-10T21:00:00.001-07:00

He kept telling everyone he was turning 25 this year....

The kids made him a birthday poster...

And were very excited to give him his present.

Steve was happy too!

But, I think they actually had more fun popping the packaging!
We had a fun birthday weekend...

Tyler will tell you that he got in a fight with a table at his dad's birthday dinner. He ended up with a nice black eye this morning!

HAPPY "25th" STEVE!!!
We Love You!!

Happy Birthday Tyler!!

2011-04-04T21:05:00.000-07:00

April 4, 2007

Tyler was born at 4:44am
and today he turns...

FOUR!!

He has wanted to have a How To Train Your Dragon Cake for his birthday
ever since the movie came out....

He was SO excited that after he blew out the candles he said, "I love this!!"
Tyler was very spoiled by everyone!

He has known about this present for months! It was on clearance and he has waited VERY patiently for his birthday to come so he could finally have it!

Then for his birthday dinner, Zack informed us we had to go to Texas Roadhouse because they sing to you on the saddle. So we went with my parents, Alayna, Shelly & Jazzy!

Our 3 amigos!

Tyler cracks open his peanuts with a ketchup bottle every time we go there!

He learned this trick from his dad!

Me & My cute mom!

Jazzy & Grandma

Me & Shelly

Tyler & Grandpa

Tyler & Aunt Alayna
Then before bed, Tyler got to open his last gifts from his dad...

It was a big surprise!

It was a real "Incredibles" super suit!
He LOVES that movie & thinks he's Dash. He has been wearing a red t-shirt & red pants as Jammies every night. Now he has a "real" super hero suit!

He also got his own guitar. He has been fighting over Zack's & then Steve made him one out of cardboard, which finally ended the fights. Then he found this one on KSL for $10.00. As you can see by his smile he was very happy!!

We adore this crazy kid!
He brings a smile to our faces everyday... He makes us so happy! Today he kept saying, "Now that I'm grown up, I can do this & this & this.
We love you Tyler Man!!! Happy 4th Birthday!!

2011-03-12T14:37:00.001-08:00

We have put our kids to work!

They have been helping Steve get Sophie's room ready.

Tyler, Zack & Steve

Tyler even put his hat on just like his dad!

Libby was a great help with sanding.

Even Mickey got in on the action.

Here was the first step...

Then Steve got up all the wood work & has started sanding, caulking & priming. This has turned into quite a time consuming job....but it's going to be SO cute when we are done!

I'm hoping we get all the painting done by next week...then comes the fun part of decorating!
I think my nesting face is kicking into high gear...clutter always drives me nuts, but it's really starting to drive me crazy! Our upstairs has been chaos for a few months now. We've moved Steve's office to the loft & the boys got bunk beds & wanted their room to have a space theme. So hopefully we'll have pictures of everything done soon!!

Iceskating fun...

2011-02-22T15:08:00.001-08:00

Last Saturday, we took the kids ice skating for the first time...they LOVED it!

All ready to go...

Libby

Zack

Tyler

Steve's a good teacher!

Zack & Tyler getting used to it.

Libby did really good.

Zack did good too!

Tyler fell a few times...but would always say, "I'm alright!"

Best buds!

Tyler was super happy!

I love these guys!!
Now Libby REALLY wants to take lessons!

Libby's Lucky Day...

2011-02-22T14:59:00.000-08:00

Each month at her orthodontics office they have a contest. Last month, Libby took a guess at how many M&M's she thought were in the jar. Then when we went to her appointment a few weeks ago she found out she won! Her prize was a $50.00 check!! She was SO excited. Libby decided to take the check and open a savings account...she is very excited that she even has an ATM card now! I'm glad she is learning how to save her money!!

Happy Valentine's Day

2011-02-14T20:31:00.000-08:00

Our fridge is covered in LOVE!

Our kids made us lots of Valentine's!

They are always so excited to surprise us!

We had a fun day... There wasn't even school, we LOVE having Mondays off!!

My Little chefs...

Made YUMMY chocolate dipped strawberries...

Steve brought us home Cafe Rio....
And
Chocolate covered Marsipan for me!!

I'm 7 months along & I have to take the glucose test tomorrow at my Doctor's appointment....
I sure hope I pass after all the treats I ate tonight!!

HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY!!

Tyler...

2011-02-04T15:11:00.000-08:00

Can you believe my baby is now in Primary?? He is a Sunbeam!!
Lately, he literally is my little "sunbeam"...he makes me so happy!

I LOVE this age. He is too funny!

We were riding in the car & Libby said, "Wow, look how long Tyler's eyelashes are! Then she told him how long they were. Then he said, "And I have a cute smile!"
He has a little accent when he talks. Like when he says, "Zack" he'll exaggerate the "A" so it's more like "ZAAck" or "cOOOl"!

He is so excited to be a big brother....he'll come up to my belly & say, "Hi Sophie, I'm your brother Tyler." Then he'll ask me if she kicked.
Everyday he tells me how he can do all kinds of things, but Sophie won't be able to do this or that. Then he'll say that he will have to teach her when she comes out.
Some of his favorite foods right now are...Ramen noodles, chocolate milk, apples & otter pops(I think he's addicted to these!)
He also loves How To Train Your Dragon toys, dinosaurs, his new build-a-bear & he loves to play games on the i-pod & computer. Wherever we go he HAS to bring a toy with him!
Today he was telling me that when the baby comes we will have A LOT of kids in our family...then he started counting. I told him I was going to be a busy mom & he said, "I'm going to be a BIG brother!" I told him Sophie would be very lucky to have him for a brother & he said, "And you're lucky to have us!" He is so right!! Then he started naming all kinds of things he's thankful for....garbage cans, carpet, a basement, a mom& dad, plants, flowers. He was thankful for so many things! He kept naming things for about 5 minutes. I wish I had recorded his voice.
Lets just say we have been enjoying our time together everyday. When the kids started school & it was only us at home, we made up a theme song. They'd go out the door and we'd start singing..."Just the two of us, we can make it if we try, just the two of us, you & I!" Then when everyone got home he'd sing just the 5 of us!
I also love how he ADORES Libby & Zack...they do fight, but for the most part all 3 of them play pretty good together.
Now he isn't always perfect...the other day he was bossing me around telling me what to do & I jokingly said, "Tyler I'm the mom, so I'm the boss...don't tell me what to do. Then he replied, "Oh yeah, I forgot!" Like I said, he is funny!

Well, Tyler-Man we only have a few more months to give you most of our attention, but I'm sure you will be a GREAT big brother!!

Grandparent's Day!

2011-01-29T11:31:00.000-08:00

Yesterday was grandparent's day for Zack's class. He was so excited to have my parents come to school with him for most of the day. They did a singing program, ate lunch together, then a dancing program & some activities back in their class. It was over 4 hours! I'm sure it was a long day for my parents, but they said Zack was so cute & excited!

Zack as a grandpa!

The singing program

Zack & Kendall
This is Zack's dance partner. They did the Waltz & square dancing.

Then Grandma & Grandpa got to join in...

Grandma Steen & Zack

Pa-Pa & Zack

Lunch time....

He filled out a book about his grandparents. For grandpa he wrote, "I like it when my grandpa...takes me 4-wheeling." "My grandpa likes to....drive trucks." "My grandpa is very good at...math." "My grandpa & I like to...sort quarters." "My grandpa is great because...he is nice!"

For grandma's book he wrote, "My grandma is very good at...cooking." "My grandma likes to...write poems." "I like it when my grandma...gives me candy." "My grandma and I like to...go to lunch." "My grandma is great because...she is nice!"

Thanks for spending the day with Zack...he sure loves you!!

Projects...

2011-01-14T20:58:00.000-08:00

We finally got around to finishing two of our many house projects. These have been on our list since we moved in over 6 years ago. We FINALLY got around to it. I should say, Steve got around to it. He did such a good job!

The first project was installing wainscoting on the staircase.

It was a little tricky to cut the angles, but Steve did awesome! Now we just have to paint the white wall above it.

I also need to find one more oval picture frame.
I bought them at Tai Pan before I was pregnant & they don't have them anymore. I keep checking and haven't had any luck. I'm hoping by May they will restock!

The second project was a new chandelier in the entryway. I was really happy about this one. We had replaced all of the other gold lights except this one. Finally no more GOLD chandelier!

I wish I had a picture of Steve hanging this one....I was too nervous to stop & take a picture. We have a 2-story entry way & it was kind of scary to see him balancing on the ladder that high up!

I do love that I have a husband that can figure out how to do all my little projects...since he did such a good job, he gets to do wainscoting in the baby's room next.
Lucky guy!

Happy New Year!

2011-01-09T21:13:00.000-08:00

Zack had pneumonia before Christmas and was doing fine & then on the Tuesday after Christmas his cough came back. Then it kept lingering, so by Thursday we were driving home and we decided to just have the after hours pediatric clinic check his cough. I thought that maybe the antibiotic hadn't healed the pneumonia all of the way. We went about 5:30pm and by 10:00pm we were still there. He had wheezing in his lungs & his oxygen levels weren't improving. So then we went to get a chest x-ray & it turned out to be a virus. After 3 breathing treatments he threw up the steroids & there were no improvements. The Dr. decided to send us up to Primary Children's Hospital.

He's such a good kid & never complains.

We ended up being there until 3:00am. After a 45 min. breathing treatment & more monitoring we got to go home. When we got home he finally fell asleep, then he throw-up at 4:00am, woke me up for a drink at 5:00am, then I sat there staring at him breathing thinking it wasn't ok. We finally got about 4 hours of sleep. We were SO tired!! He had to use an inhaler & the Dr. wanted me to wake him up every 4 hours for the first 2 nights. He had to be checked again the next day & he received another breathing treatment and finally by Monday his levels were back to normal. It was so scary, but I'm so grateful we have doctors to help us. I'm also SO thankful for my parents who took Tyler & Libby for the night. I honestly don't know what we would do without them.
So our New Year's Eve didn't turn out quite like we planned...we were too tired to celebrate in our usual way, but we were also SO thankful Zack was going to be OK!!
So we are hoping for a happy & healthy 2011!! Happy New Year!

Christmas 2010

2011-01-02T21:45:00.000-08:00

Christmas Eve...

We actually started the day off by attending a wedding.

Then we went to Chick-fil-a for lunch.
The kids got a picture with the mooy-Christmas cow!

Then we came home and made sugar cookies together & headed to my parent's house.

The Norwegian Santa delivered a few gifts.

With the help of his reindeer & Co-Santa this year.

We also got a surprise visit from a real Santa too! It was actually my parent's bishop delivering a gift & I think we surprised him when all the kids came down the hall to see him!

We celebrated with my Uncle Roy & Aunt Anne & Cousin Erik. We always have our traditional Norwegian meatballs & rice pudding for dessert. My aunt hides an almond in one of the bowls & whoever has it wins a marsipan pig. This year she surprised us and put in 5 almonds. I was a winner & got to pick a Scandinavian chocolate bar.

We also celebrated Dave & Roy's birthdays.

Then we headed home & put out cookies for Santa & salad for the reindeer & headed off to bed!

They left cute notes for Santa & his reindeer.

Christmas Day...

Zack, Libby & Tyler waiting to go down to see what Santa brought.

They were so cute...they wanted me & Steve to open the gifts they made for us first!
They are great kids & were happy to see that Santa had brought some of the things they asked for.

Libby was excited to get American Doll Accessories.

And a matching outfit for her & her doll.

Zack got his microscope & a telescope...he's our science guy!

Tyler was thrilled with his "viking" costume.
He LOVES the movie, How To Train Your Dragon.

He also let grandpa try on the hat since he's a real Norwegian Viking!

We celebrated the rest of the day at my parent's house.
They sure spoiled everyone! Thanks for all you do for us...Love Ya!!

We had a very Merry Christmas & have been so blessed this year!!

Andersen Christmas Party

2011-01-02T21:26:00.000-08:00

Andersen Party....

This is my mom, my 2 uncles & my 2 aunts & their cousins.
Back row:Kenny, Allen, mom, Kelly, Danny, Anina & Alayna
Front row: Joann & Carolyn

This party started years & years ago by their parents. Every year we still get together with all the extended family for dinner, pinatas & basketball.
As a kid, I looked forward to this party every year! Now my kids love it!

Here is a group picture with all of their spouses.

The family has gotten huge over the years & there is over 100 of us. We filled 60 bags of treats just for the 2 pinatas this year.

Steve was in charge of it this year.

Tyler

Zack

Libby

The older group of kids lining up.

And scrambling for their prizes.

It's a fun time to see all our relatives we don't see most of the year.

2010-12-21T20:12:00.000-08:00

We are having a GIRL!!
She is due the first week of May.

The ultrasound was yesterday & all of our kids wanted to come. They were SO excited. I was so relieved when they said everything was good so far. Then when they told us it was a girl, we all cheered! Libby is especially excited to finally have a sister. We are probably going to name her "Sophie".

After the ultrasound we met my mom & Shelly for lunch at Quilted Bear & celebrated by eating our "Pink" sugar cookies.
I couldn't resist...I had to buy a couple of headband bows.
I'm a little afraid this baby is going to be VERY spoiled by everyone.

Today my sister already bought her a blanket & cute outfit!!

Look at those cute ruffles on the bum!!
I always say, "If you have a baby girl you have to "decorate" them!" She is off to a good start!!

Christmas Piano Recital

2010-12-17T19:18:00.001-08:00

Libby had her piano recital tonight. She did a good job. They played on huge 10ft. grand piano. Their teacher said that Sir Paul McCartney had come to Utah recently for a concert & this is the one he used for the concert. Libby thought it was a little loud & the keys seemed slippery. It seemed like it was messing up quite a few of the kids. It was fun to hear all the Christmas songs.

She played Up On The Housetop & Deck The Halls.

Up On the Housetop was a duet with her teacher.

Here she is practicing before the recital.

We finally got a "real" piano & it is so fun to see her progress.
She literally doesn't walk past it without playing it now.
It was made in the 1890's & I love it. The style of the old pianos are so beautiful to me & we lucked out to get one that sounds good too. Someone told us we had to decide if we wanted a piece of furniture or an instrument...Luckily I think we found both qualities.

She was also so excited because I finally found a dress that came with a matching one for her doll.
They usually only come in the small sizes. There was one left in her size & the best part was the price...it didn't have a tag & the boy at the chekout said, "Does $9.99 sound fair?" I said, " it was probably at least $20.00" Then he replied, "$9.99 it is." Then I had a coupon & got 30% more off.
It was a fun night that we ended with dinner at Red Robin.
Good Job, Libby!

Here she is playing for us when we got home.

I didn't have the video from the recital because it was on Steve's phone & I'm not sure how to download it on here.

2010-12-16T20:33:00.000-08:00

A new tradition...

In the December issue of 'The Friend' magazine was an activity called the scripture tree. It is a countdown to Christmas. Each day there is a question & then a scripture you read to answer it. Then you add the ornament to the tree. My kids have LOVED this. We decided to make a felt tree with ornaments so we can do it each year at Christmas.

We just added velcro to stick the ornaments on.

This is how it will look when the countdown is over.
I can't believe how close we are...only a few ornaments are left!!

We also forgot to post pictures of the trees in the kid's rooms...

Libby

Zack

Tyler

One last funny story about Tyler...My mom had given each kid a chocolate countdown to Christmas, so we hung them above their little trees. They each ate the first day & then on the second day Zack said, "Tyler come & eat your chocolate for today." He said, " I can't until Christmas because I only have one left under the moon & one under Santa's leg." So that's what he had been doing so quietly in his room the day before! He is patiently waiting for the last two days to enjoy his remaining chocolate!!

November 2010

2010-11-28T19:59:00.000-08:00

Our November was filled with lots of food, fun & family.

It was so nice this year because Steve & the kids had the whole week off. We had a lot of fun family time. We got the Christmas decorations up, the kids got to sled, ski & we even went to see the movie, Tangled. We loved it! Unfortunately, we have ended this fun week with the stomach flu. It was sure fun while it lasted!

Our tree

The boys favorite part...the train.

Sledding

First ski day of the year.

Tyler-man even went this year!
He came home and said, " Are you proud of me, Mom?" Then he gave me a big hug. It was hard for me to let my little one go. He was so excited though!

Ending the fun day with some hot cocoa.

We hope everyone had a great Thanksgiving!
We are very grateful for all of our blessings!

Happy Halloween 2010

2010-10-30T21:31:00.000-07:00

SCHOOL PARADE

Tyler waiting for the parade to start.

Libby, the "good" witch.

Zack the ghost. He has a cool mask, but he couldn't wear it to school.

Libby & Jazzy

Zack & Noah

CARVING PUMPKINS

Steve is the master carver...he is very patient & only cut his hand once!

Tyler got out his hammer to help him poke the holes to carve Pikachu!

Libby designed her own ghost face.

Zack did an awesome monster.

Here are the finished pumpkins....mine is the traditional one, Zack's is the monster, Steve's is the pirate ship, Tyler's is the Pikachu & Libby's is the ghost!

TRICK OR TREATING

Pikachu, a witch & a ghost!

Tyler was SO excited this year!

Libby looked great...our dog Mickey didn't recognize her with the black wig & would bark at her. It was funny!

Zack in his full ghost costume...SCARY!

They made it home to count their candy!

We hope you had a HAPPY HALLOWEEN!!

Family Campout 2010

2010-09-15T21:24:00.000-07:00

We spent a "luxury" weekend away....there was golfing, boating & gourmet meals!

We had our annual Steen camp out at Palisades Park this year. It was something new & fun. Not everyone could make it this year, but it still ended up being a good time!

BOATING...
Now these boats get you some exercise!

Denette, Dallin & Libby

Wyatt & Zack

Steve & the boys

Shane & Bailey

Bailey, Grandma & Shelly

I had to put this one on...see the girl laying out on the dock...she was invaded by our family!

GOLFING...

We brought something new to the golf course this year...bikes, scooters & a bunch of kids walking up the path to the driving range. We got a few glares from the "real" golfers, but the kids loved it!

This is our group of golfers.

Zack was excited to try out his clubs on a real golf course.

Grandma even gave it a try.

Shane knows how to send those balls flying!

GOURMET MEALS..
My aunt & uncle (Norma & Tom) always make us a dutch oven dinner. Usually we go to their house, but this year they even brought it to us at the campsite. It was SO YUMMY!! I feel bad that I didn't get their picture. They did this for us & it was even their anniversary!
We also enjoyed a lot of other junk food over the weekend, but one of our favorites is always...

Yummy Smores!

They'll always put a smile on your face!
Tyler was happy with just the chocolate!

My kids were in heaven when my brother Sam helped them to catch some guppies from the little lake. They are still alive in a water bottle on Libby's desk!

Uncle Sam, Libby, Tyler, Davey, Adam & Zack

Zack, Adam & Tyler looking for fish.

Libby catching a few.

It was a lot of fun & freezing at night, but so much fun!

Thanks Dad!
We just might have to do the "luxury" resort next year too!

First Day Of School 2010

2010-08-23T21:56:00.000-07:00

This was our first year having a full summer break...we are finally on traditional schedule. The weird part is this summer FLEW by! I really can't believe school started today.

Libby is in 4th grade this year!

She has Mrs. Stuart & was SO excited because her best friend Summer is in her class...then she was very excited to find out her cousin Jasmine was coming to our school & somehow they got in the same class!!

Jasmine

Zack is in 2nd grade this year!

He has Mrs. Bronson & was so excited to have his best friend Noah in his class.

My kids had a great 1st day! They were very happy when I picked them up today.

Tyler on the other hand, was ready to pick them up at 9:30am, 10:00am, 10:30am. Then he started sobbing when I told him we'd pick them up after going to Walmart. He said, we couldn't go without them! He REALLY missed them!

Well we're back to a regular bedtime & schedule...the hardest part is no more sleeping in for me!!

Happy Birthday Zack!

2010-08-05T21:48:00.001-07:00

It's hard to believe this cute little guy is 7 years old today!!

August 5, 2010

He's been counting down for weeks!
Everyday he'd say how many more days were left until his birthday.
We LOVE this kid!!

He had swimming lessons tonight and he wanted Grandma & Grandpa to come & watch.

Then he wanted to have dinner at Chuck-a-Rama.

All of my kids were excited to eat there...they love picking out their own food.

They especially love the slushies.

Tyler really enjoyed his tonight!

He said it was Tiger's blood!

Here he is getting ready to unwrap his present....

I think we succeeded! Look at that smile!
( I also LOVE Jazzy's reaction!)

Aunt Shelly surprised him with the Mickey Mouse Magician hat...

He REALLY wanted it when we were in California!

Grandpa liked it too!

He was also happy to get a phone call from Grandma & Grandpa Peterson. They are in Nauvoo on a mission.

He had a great birthday...nothing better than good food, family & new toys to play with!

They even sang to him & brought out a root beer float.
I love his smile...Shelly said to smile like you just got a barbie! He thought that was pretty funny!

Jazzy, Libby & Steve

Tyler LOVES his brother!

Happy Birthday, Zack! We sure do love you!

2010-08-02T22:29:00.000-07:00

The things we LOVE about summer....

*FiReWoRkS*

These were from Draper Days...

*SnOwCoNeS*

We LOVE Snowshack!

We love to ride our bikes to the park & then stop for our snow cone at the end.

In the summer, this happens a few times a week!

*CaMpFiReS*

And

*SmORes*

*bOAting*

This is one of our favorite places...

Steve getting ready for me to drive...does he look a little nervous?? He survived my changing speeds & will actually let me pull him up again!

waterskiing=fun

*CaMpiNG*
I can't believe this is on my list...I'm still not a "real" camper,
But if you go with people you LOVE, to a place with showers & flushing toilets, it's not too bad!

Hey Josh...are you missing something? Shelly took your DS for the weekend!

These cute kids put on a Star Wars light show for us!

You should hear them singing the theme song!

They are cute!

My kids act like animals when we go camping...ha!ha!

Another great thing about camping is bringing yummy treats...

I think Tyler needs a BIGGER straw next time!

*late Nights*

This is what I usually find after movie night!
We stay up way too late in the summer, but that is another thing we love about it!

*My KIDS*
They can get bored at times & then they get creative & entertain me!

Once again it was the Star Wars theme song!

Libby plays the harmonica

Zack plays the Saxophone

And Tyler sings!

I can't believe it's already August & school starts in a few more weeks!
There is one thing we don't like about summer...it goes by too fast!

Swimming lessons

2010-07-21T23:47:00.001-07:00

Tyler's first year of swimming lessons...he LOVES his goggles!
He's doing really good.

He jumped off the diving board & is doing good at holding his breath under water.

After he is done Libby & Zack have their lesson.

Last year, was the first time they had ever had lessons.

Libby has improved so much, they moved her to the corner to corner class....she's actually swimming now!

And working on her dive!

Zack is in the same class as his cousin Mitchell. They are both getting better too!

Zack doing his back float.

Here he is doing his jump off the diving board.
And while they are having their lessons Tyler loves to entertain me!

He pulled his suit up high on his belly & yelled, "take a picture of me mom!!"

He is our entertainer!!

2010-07-21T23:37:00.000-07:00

Last Tuesday, Libby got some "bling-bling"....on her teeth!

She really does look cute with them!

Her teeth were a little sore at first, but she did great!

Happy 4th Of July!!

2010-07-08T15:19:00.001-07:00

Our 4th of July girl turned 9!!

Sweet Liberty!!

July 4, 2010

Happy Birthday! We LOVE you!!

As always, we had a big party with lots of food & fireworks.

Sparkler fun...

Libby

Tyler

Zack

Steve still had a smile on his face after lighting MANY sparklers for the kids!
It all went well this year...only one chair caught on fire!
Once it got dark...

Steve & my brother Scott put on a great show for us!
These two crack me up!

Steve getting ready...he brought out a couple ladders this year!

It was their best show so far!

Everyone enjoyed it!

Dallin, Tyler, Bailey, Josh, Libby & Jazzy

It was a HAPPY 4th!

All my kids LOVE Libby's birthday!!
We are also so grateful to live in the USA!! Happy Birthday America!
Of course, I took a lot of pictures so here is a slide show of the fun day....