tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-156223662011-12-15T12:56:31.435-08:00All about our family ... mostly about Danny and <b>Kaylee</b>.Matthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04140175787193023620noreply@blogger.comBlogger2661100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15622366.post-37747258684855646622011-12-14T18:29:00.000-08:002011-12-14T18:46:52.656-08:00

We had planned have a fun family night with Grandma and Grandpa Couch - going out to dinner & then to Snowflake Lane. At dinner Matt said, "And by the way, just today my friend invited us to go ice skating at the downtown park - they rented out the rink so it would be free." Even though it was getting past bedtime, we went for it, and it turned out to be one of the best spontaneous evenings

Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08355070090095088683noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15622366.post-2512009357497957302011-11-17T21:01:00.000-08:002011-11-17T21:36:50.164-08:00

When Danny requested a Musketeer birthday party, I was a little unsure of what to do. Most child appropriate Musketeer gear is related to the Barbie Musketeer movie. Matt made it clear that Danny was not allowed to have a Barbie party. So I did a little more research, and Danny found a Mickey Mouse Musketeer movie that gave us a little more inspiration, and with a lot of help from Grandma

Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08355070090095088683noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15622366.post-35523003661481271502011-11-15T21:53:00.000-08:002011-11-15T22:01:34.910-08:00

This autumn I have gained new appreciation and understanding for the name "Fall." As a teacher in Houston, I purchased these fake fallen leaves to decorate my classroom. Now they make their way to my mantel during October and November. But this year, in our new home, it seems ironic to have these inside when my yard looks like this. The leaves just keep falling and falling. Today I filled

Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08355070090095088683noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15622366.post-80948272596972037452011-11-09T21:25:00.000-08:002011-11-09T22:40:13.955-08:00

True. We moved in June. But the exciting news is that our new house now has a new roof! You may notice in this first picture that you can't even see the beautiful new roof. That is correct. Despite not being able to enjoy staring at our new investment, we are happy that we'll be staying dry all winter (spring, summer, & fall ... this is Seattle) for at least the next 30 years. Besides the

Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08355070090095088683noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15622366.post-82151442836585908492011-11-06T21:07:00.000-08:002011-11-06T21:38:36.535-08:00

Why we loved the 2011 Eastern Idaho State Fair . . .FARM ANIMALSFOODand FAMILY TIME.And what we wish to forget from the 2011 EISF . . .SECOND DEGREE BURNS AND STREP THROATAnd while we're doing Fair Flashbacks, let's compare one of my first years workin' the fair . . .to this year . . . I'm so glad I married a carny.

Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08355070090095088683noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15622366.post-48424588858515821122011-11-01T21:22:00.000-07:002011-11-01T21:58:14.951-07:00

It was a Happy Halloween indeed. First off, trick-or-treating at Dad's work. The candy was even more dense than at a trunk-or-treat. Nearly every cubicle had something to offer.At the church Halloween party, Tinker Bell had fun popping balloons and winning a whistle (which was only removed when a sucker could replace it).Our cowboy favored shooting darts at a Haunted House.Both were huge fans

Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08355070090095088683noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15622366.post-26449206648629848592011-09-15T21:02:00.000-07:002011-09-15T21:27:44.524-07:00

Matt and I were introduced to this game several years ago. And we like it. For date nights we used to sit at our laptops playing online Catan against each other. I know, real social, right?Back in Houston, my sister & her husband were our go-to competition when we wanted a foursome, but since moving to WA we have hardly played at all. Maybe it's because we've been too busy hiking or hosting

Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08355070090095088683noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15622366.post-903134165508098932011-08-29T14:58:00.001-07:002011-08-29T16:08:26.299-07:00

The last month we were spoiled with lots of cousins. Danny & Kaylee LOVE their cousins. And Matt and I were excited to spend a little time with our newest nephews as well. Sadly, when Mindy, G-Pops, & Grandma Angie came to visit, my camera was MIA. I did get this phone shot of Kaylee & Kaya stick wrestling. Kaylee won. I guess that's what happens when you have a big brother to wrestle

Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08355070090095088683noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15622366.post-30939965413531614262011-08-28T08:48:00.000-07:002011-08-28T09:01:52.677-07:00

I think I should plant her a garden. And then I should install a tub right next to it.

Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08355070090095088683noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15622366.post-36619200589010370772011-08-14T20:23:00.000-07:002011-08-14T21:10:23.296-07:00

Though we haven't had a lot of summer weather in Seattle this year, we've managed to make the most of it. Here are a few highlights. Visiting Illahee Park in Bremerton Hiking with friends & family Swimming lessons (indoor, heated pool) Berry Picking with Friends Boating to Ivars with friends Dancing in the rain at outdoor, library sponsored concerts Playing at the beach on Lake Union (In long

Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08355070090095088683noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15622366.post-63486818725678128652011-08-06T13:38:00.000-07:002011-08-06T14:07:44.566-07:00

Pirates are a huge part of Seattle's annual summer festival, Seafair. A friend clued us in to the beginning of Seafair's festivities - the Pirate Landing at Alki Beach. We knew our aspiring cap'n would be thrilled to see these 'real' pirates.After scoping out the pirate gear and getting a free sword, we headed to the beach to watch for the scallywags. We waited.And waited some more.Danny

Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08355070090095088683noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15622366.post-62446812065760155502011-08-04T22:02:00.001-07:002011-08-04T22:58:25.359-07:00

So, actually 2 years and 1 month . . . it's been a busy, busy month. After Danny greeted Kaylee with a special 4th of July balloon, Kaylee's birthday started out with a hike on Tiger Mountain with Dad, Danny, & Grandpa Couch. They had so much fun that Matt decided he wanted to make this a daddy daughter birthday tradition. When they returned, we played a few games and Kaylee enjoyed opening

Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08355070090095088683noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15622366.post-80562155246517033322011-07-02T16:16:00.001-07:002011-07-05T21:44:32.606-07:00

But not Matt and I. At least not lately. Instead our weekend dates the past few months have frequently been training runs for our marathon. The one we would run together.My favorite was when the babysitter came at 7 AM on a Saturday morning for our 20 miler."So, you're going to just run for the next 4 hours?""Yep.""Oh." Which, from the look on her face translated to,"You are really, really

Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08355070090095088683noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15622366.post-34210030847210747772011-06-02T16:00:00.000-07:002011-06-02T17:42:53.739-07:00

Danny LOVED Disney World. His favorite ride was Peter Pan's Flight. His least favorite ride was Splash Mountain. He rode on his first big roller coaster - Thunder Mountain - and loved it so much that his dad took him again. The two rides he wanted to do over and over were Buzz Light Year's Space Ranger Spin & Toy Story Mania. Other highlights for Danny included: Jack Sparrow's Pirate

Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08355070090095088683noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15622366.post-3756527677943315462011-05-29T20:58:00.000-07:002011-05-29T22:18:01.408-07:00

Kaylee's Disney World experience was unique. Most of her days started out like this picture taken the morning we went to Animal Kingdom. She was fresh and ready for an adventure, looking clean & crisp. By the end of a full day of activities, messy snacks (ice cream at least once a day), & excess humidity, she usually looked more like this. On our first day we returned home for afternoon naps,

Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08355070090095088683noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15622366.post-88790617812492416192011-05-25T21:20:00.000-07:002011-05-25T21:58:00.485-07:00

I'm so grateful for memories. Because as I've looked back over the 250 pictures I took during our amazing vacation, so few actually capture the magic we felt. (I know, cheesy, right?) I don't know if the problem is: A. My children who, understandably, prefer to look at whatever cool thing is happening rather than turn around and smile at me. B. My Canon Powershot that isn't quick enough to

Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08355070090095088683noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15622366.post-42775213950033194162011-05-23T20:49:00.000-07:002011-05-23T21:24:04.145-07:00

We arrived at Disney World on a Wednesday afternoon. We arrived early enough to get settled into our Fort Wilderness cabin, but too late to go to a theme park. Instead, after returning our rental car, we browsed Downtown Disney. Really, this place is just another spot for Disney tourists to lose their $. I was proud that we were able to thoroughly enjoy the magic here without spending a

Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08355070090095088683noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15622366.post-90980615258449279802011-05-22T17:30:00.000-07:002011-05-22T18:42:21.176-07:00

My family moved around quite a bit when I was growing up. I never lived in one house longer than 4 years, usually no more than 2. In fact, when I go "home" to visit my parents, it is to a house I have never lived in. Matt, however, goes home to the house he grew up in. When we visit, each room has stories and now my children are taking part in the memories of where their dad grew up -

Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08355070090095088683noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15622366.post-28532066173750861062011-05-19T20:13:00.000-07:002011-05-19T20:38:50.457-07:00

I'll have posts with pictures soon, but I wanted to jot down a few things from our Florida trip that I didn't want to forget. Uninterrupted family time for 10 days - it was MARVELOUS!Kaylee & Danny splashing in Grandmother & Papa's pool & playing with the same pool toys that I'd grown up with.Kaylee devouring Great Grandmother's hot fudge - who can resist it?Catching up with cousin Lindsay, who I

Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08355070090095088683noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15622366.post-29813531572140845052011-05-05T15:30:00.000-07:002011-05-05T16:12:54.840-07:00

About 45 minutes north of us, there are acres and acres of tulip fields. Despite growing up in the Northwest, I never recall visiting the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival. It was incredible!My friend Rachael and her daughter Anna joined us for the adventure. 45 minute drives are actually quite enjoyable when you have another adult to talk to. And Anna and Kaylee always have fun together.At the

Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08355070090095088683noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15622366.post-32488464953415719742011-05-02T09:36:00.001-07:002011-05-02T11:32:32.266-07:00

I'm not sure which I should be more concerned about . . . Kaylee's love of mud or her love of shoes.Between General Conference sessions I knew the kids needed a little fresh air, mud or no mud. Some parents talk about how their children don't like to get messy. Hmmm . . . what would that be like? If I let her, Kaylee would probably be content to bathe in mud. On this particular day, she did.

Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08355070090095088683noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15622366.post-72238943722010109502011-05-01T16:07:00.001-07:002011-05-01T16:35:23.584-07:00

Matt and Dozer soaking up the sun after church.

Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08355070090095088683noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15622366.post-87577726554261855412011-04-28T21:54:00.000-07:002011-04-28T22:59:57.967-07:00

Although it's almost May, I'm still wearing sweaters nearly every day. For my morning runs I wear ear warmers and gloves. Even when I'm inside I put on a sweater which I now refer to as my Mr.Roger's sweater. I walk in, take off my jacket, and put on my sweater. Today in rebellion I wore flip flops, despite the 40-something temperatures. And now, as I type, I have our little space heater

Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08355070090095088683noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15622366.post-50646774011622648882011-04-12T15:39:00.000-07:002011-04-12T15:44:39.564-07:00

...until the static attacks.

Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08355070090095088683noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15622366.post-10587603525810862992011-03-19T17:38:00.001-07:002011-03-19T21:16:19.754-07:00

This afternoon we spent 4 hours looking at houses. Our lease ends in June, and since it's a good time to buy, we felt like we should take a look around. I love looking at homes. Unless I'm actually considering buying one of them and making a long-term commitment to living in it. Then it's not as fun because you're also considering all the long-term implications of a mortgage, home value

Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08355070090095088683noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15622366.post-24378318962809017592011-03-01T15:08:00.000-08:002011-03-01T15:53:04.722-08:00

I married into a really cool extended family. I knew that before, but then Matt's cousins came to visit and I remembered just how fun and fabulous they really are. They only flew in for a few days, but we made the most of it. Lucky for us, Seattle had the most AMAZING weather while they were here.We headed to Ipanema Grill in downtown Seattle the first night they were here. DELICIOUS. We also

Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08355070090095088683noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15622366.post-35448474964190739502011-02-25T15:25:00.001-08:002011-02-25T20:37:42.271-08:00

My parents came to visit over Valentine's weekend. And I LOVE having them so close. They took us out to a delicious Korean BBQ place. We made Valentine's bags together. Matt and I went on a long run together while they watched the kids. We all went to the Harry Potter exhibit at the Pacific Science Center (Which was AWESOME). They babysat so we could go on a Valentine's date. We ate some

Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08355070090095088683noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15622366.post-44722384167185219392011-02-25T14:44:00.000-08:002011-02-25T15:19:41.506-08:00

Though she's wiggly, I find I get far more cute pictures of Kaylee. When I try to take a picture of Danny he usually does this.Or this.Or maybe this.Fortunately, there is a mom at Danny's preschool who is able to capture him when I never can. Rarely smiling, but always focused on the task at hand. Recently Danny was the VIP (Very Important Preschooler) at school and I was reminded how special

Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08355070090095088683noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15622366.post-70302641091312324922011-02-16T20:50:00.000-08:002011-02-16T21:59:28.690-08:00

Yes, this is a catch-up post. But January was a very busy month (beginning with two weeks of circulating sickness). And hey, I was able to tie it all together in a catchy post title. So be thoroughly impressed. And enjoy.We were excited to have Mom & Warren come visit in the middle of the month. Danny & Kaylee were thrilled to see Grandma & Grandpa.For a Christmas gift, Matt & I let Mom &

Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08355070090095088683noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15622366.post-21317663947938230312011-01-11T20:35:00.001-08:002011-01-11T21:02:55.254-08:00

Because even though we have a lot of this . . .and occasionally this . . .we get a daily dose of this . . .and tons of this.

Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08355070090095088683noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15622366.post-10425585871810408132011-01-07T10:11:00.000-08:002011-01-07T23:04:27.096-08:00

I love this cousin picture except the red eye, which for some reason I could not edit out. At least the red eyes match the PJs.Christmas this year was WONDERFUL. It had been 4 years since my family was all together for Christmas . . . way too long when you have so much fun together. There was potential for utter chaos with 9 adults, 6 children, and 4 dogs under one roof, but everything went

Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08355070090095088683noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15622366.post-26409171301757846812010-12-17T14:48:00.000-08:002010-12-17T14:48:09.951-08:00

Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08355070090095088683noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15622366.post-50407147059177720432010-12-17T08:10:00.001-08:002010-12-17T17:12:34.566-08:00

So we just finished sending out the last of our Christmas cards yesterday. And I can't help wondering how long this tradition will continue. Personally, I LOVE sending and receiving actual cards & letters in the mail. Growing up, my parents put together a really creative newsletter every year. I remember helping address envelopes (by hand mind you, none of the easy data merge to sticky labels

Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08355070090095088683noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15622366.post-50135805710774483802010-12-08T23:36:00.000-08:002010-12-08T23:54:44.868-08:00

I just love online shopping. It is so much easier in so many ways. More choices from the comfort of your own home. The kids are asleep rather than trying to jump out of the shopping cart. The "shopping trip" takes as long as I want it to. Nobody is pestering me to go down the LEGO Star Wars aisle for the umpteenth time slowing down the whole excursion. Nor is there anyone cutting the trip

Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08355070090095088683noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15622366.post-56057023817755543922010-12-07T00:03:00.001-08:002010-12-07T07:38:08.770-08:00

Though it has melted now (at least in our part of the world), we enjoyed it while it lasted.Watching.Playing. Smiling.

Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08355070090095088683noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15622366.post-59390108675821369312010-12-04T20:37:00.000-08:002010-12-04T20:59:00.046-08:00

Recently I became aware that I was failing with my children in the nutrition department. Grains - check. Protein - check. Dairy - check, check (my children will not have a calcium deficiency at all). Fruit - usually. Vegetables - fail. Sugar - WAY TOO MUCH. I realized my need for change during a week that consisted of more fruit snacks than fresh fruit (but hey - 100% vitamin c) & carrot

Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08355070090095088683noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15622366.post-45393094300034068492010-12-04T20:22:00.000-08:002010-12-04T20:37:51.029-08:00

that my kids would be uncooperative at the professional photography studio, I wouldn't have wasted the time or $.that they would be equally uncooperative posing at home, I wouldn't have even tried.

Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08355070090095088683noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15622366.post-10279591747659109772010-11-04T20:27:00.000-07:002010-11-04T20:46:42.223-07:00

I like to read, but I've never considered myself a reader. While Matt can devour a book in a night, it takes me weeks. I consistently go to book clubs having at least 1/4 of the book left to read. Recently I was pondering why this is. Perhaps it's because I typically don't pick up my book to read until I'm curling up in bed. By then I'm already so tired I don't last more than a few pages.

Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08355070090095088683noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15622366.post-83720746524091620682010-11-01T21:48:00.000-07:002010-11-04T20:27:05.902-07:00

Our Halloween Weekend began with a Western themed Murder Mystery Party on Friday. Our friends who hosted went all out! Because Matt was getting home that night from a business trip, and we were concerned about arriving late, neither of us were assigned specific characters. Matt, however, figured out one of the most important clues to solving the mystery. Matt did look handsome in the cowboy

Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08355070090095088683noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15622366.post-44830094856991030042010-10-27T16:17:00.000-07:002010-10-27T23:11:05.792-07:00

After a 7 year hiatus from Fall (Houston does not have Fall) I am savoring every moment of it this year. Here are the top 5 things I have missed, and love, about my favorite season.5. Crisp, chilly weather perfect for a walk through crunchy leaves.4. The smell & taste of fresh, steaming hot Washington apple cider as it fills me with warmth on a breezy afternoon.3. Wearing sweaters & scarves.2.

Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08355070090095088683noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15622366.post-74849188025756935142010-10-27T16:11:00.000-07:002010-10-27T16:17:27.642-07:00

We planted our first garden this year after Danny expressed enthusiasm for gardening last spring. Our only goal was to have fun with it. You definitely reap what you sow.I won't tell you what we started with, but it was definitely more than this. Perhaps next year I'll set higher goals. And find a sunnier location to plant.

Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08355070090095088683noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15622366.post-88232666990305103112010-10-25T21:14:00.000-07:002010-10-25T22:19:03.143-07:00

A few unrelated events that have left me pondering . . .Last week I made shrimp alfredo for dinner (don't be too impressed . . . pre-cooked shrimp, jar of alfredo, bowtie pasta . . . I did cut up some veggies & mince the garlic). Though I enjoy seafood, we don't eat it at home very often. Danny was very unsure about the shrimp. Now, I don't have a problem with my child not wanting to eat a lot

Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08355070090095088683noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15622366.post-52437408380021495382010-10-21T11:12:00.001-07:002010-10-21T15:58:48.826-07:00

Danny loves pirates at the moment, so it was a natural theme for his 4th birthday party. I acknowledge I get a little carried away with parties . . . but it's so fun for me. And on Tuesday morning while Danny reveled in his celebratory hangover, he exclaimed, "Mom. That was the best party ever."We were greatly missing our Billings cousins this birthday as it was the first time since Danny's

Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08355070090095088683noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15622366.post-33464697409102706852010-10-21T10:02:00.000-07:002010-10-21T11:11:52.756-07:00

Danny likes to remind us that he is not a baby or little kid any more. He is a big boy. With preschool starting this year, and now his 4th birthday, I realize just how right he is. But, I remind him, he will always by my first baby no matter how big he gets.Things I want to remember about 4-year-old Danny . . .Danny is fascinated with nature and could spend hours outside collecting sticks &

Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08355070090095088683noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15622366.post-87694438661852803642010-10-11T21:54:00.000-07:002010-10-11T22:12:26.056-07:00

Sometimes I think Kaylee is old enough to try something.Then moments later I think . . . maybe not.(Tears from when I told her she was not allowed to eat the paint or paintbrush & then had to take the paintbrush away)Fortunately, while the messiness on faces & clothes washes quickly away,the messy memories will last forever.

Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08355070090095088683noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15622366.post-38452580460171844692010-10-06T21:08:00.001-07:002010-10-06T21:52:17.516-07:00

During our recent trip to Provo, I decided to make a little game for my blog readers. While Matt slaved away at a job fair trying to recruit promising, new employees, the kids and I wandered around campus. What a joy to wander around at a leisurely pace with no concern about the next paper, midterm, or project. There was no stress about who I was dating (or hoping to be dating) or where I

Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08355070090095088683noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15622366.post-76308740243115775212010-09-28T13:47:00.001-07:002010-10-03T22:32:18.102-07:00

Curious Digging with Kaya at the EISF Sep. 2010Baby Penguins at Tauphus Park Zoo with Olivia, Isabelle, & KayaSep. 2010OutrageousWatermelon Bust with Sarah, Timmy, Isabelle, Kaya, & OliviaGrandma's House Sep. 2010Bean Museum with TimmyBYU Sep. 2010UnitedTeriyaki Chicken Cousins wait to watch a show at the EISFSep. 2010Hong Cousins ready to cheer on the CougarsBYU vs. Nevada Sep.

Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08355070090095088683noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15622366.post-35956569169010814442010-09-19T22:12:00.001-07:002010-09-19T22:52:04.694-07:00

When my sister Anne married Rex, it was a perfect union . . . for the parents. My mom - a science teacher. Rex's mom - a science teacher. My dad - an engineer. Rex's dad - an engineer. The foursome couldn't have been more excited. The moms started formulating ideas for a Camp Grandma sometime during the engagement (well . . . maybe they waited until Leah was born). They would combine their

Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08355070090095088683noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15622366.post-60329651106203871962010-09-07T15:12:00.000-07:002010-09-20T21:24:51.832-07:00

I DID IT! I completed my goal of running a marathon. I am proud, relieved, and looking forward to doing another one someday.The journey began Thursday when my dad and I drove with the kids from Washington to Idaho. I wanted a day to acclimate because the race started at 6,000 ft. elevation. My training in the Seattle area has all been right around sea level. Friday, Dad and I went and picked

Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08355070090095088683noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15622366.post-73069378844458207052010-08-30T20:15:00.000-07:002010-08-30T20:36:48.430-07:00

One of my greatest regrets of the summer was forgetting my camera on our 4 night camping trip in the Olympic Peninsula. Aaargh. Fortunately, Mindy, who is a far better photographer than I, took tons. Unfortunately, I still don't have any to post. Aaargh.Lance, Mindy, & Kaya made the long drive over from Idaho to join us. We were so grateful to have them along. Though we got a tent as a

Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08355070090095088683noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15622366.post-7873162971705148942010-08-26T15:59:00.006-07:002010-08-26T16:52:47.426-07:00

Our neighbor hooked us up with these new wheels for Kaylee. She's in driving heaven! And in case you haven't seen her for a while, in addition to perfecting her driving this summer, she's also gotten to be a pretty good walker.

Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08355070090095088683noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15622366.post-12026878041190572422010-08-25T18:22:00.003-07:002010-08-25T18:42:01.093-07:00

(To the tune of Our Favorite Things)Park dates and soccer and swimming and hiking,Outdoor pool playing and running and triking,Grandmas and grandpas and cousins galore,Camping in mountains, perfecting the s'more.Pike Place, Museums, and Puget Sound sailing,Driving all over, occasional wailing.Aunts, uncles, family, eating good food.Hot springs put everyone in a good mood.Summer's busy!Summer's

Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08355070090095088683noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15622366.post-16158613048274521432010-07-20T14:50:00.000-07:002010-07-20T14:50:42.072-07:00

Motherhood:-An-Eternal-Partnership

Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08355070090095088683noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15622366.post-89769688986547337242010-07-18T20:37:00.013-07:002010-07-18T22:07:31.924-07:00

We are finally settling into a Seattle summer. The last 4 summers we've spent mornings at Splashtown, afternoons eating popsicles & having waterfights with friends, and evenings enjoying our A/C indoors. Average temperature in Houston this time of year - mid 90s. Average humidity - 97%. Also, summer in Houston starts in late April and goes strong until early October. Though the heat is

Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08355070090095088683noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15622366.post-63303573052309642952010-07-07T20:26:00.010-07:002010-07-07T20:41:34.358-07:00

Half Marathon - 2:06:36 placing 5,107 out of 17,608Full Marathon - 4:09:53 placing 1,223 out of 4,094Sweet (and sore) success. Apparently the whole experience wore Kaylee out too. Thanks for watching the kids Mom and Dad!!

Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08355070090095088683noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15622366.post-44009226441631115492010-07-06T20:53:00.026-07:002010-07-06T22:03:05.810-07:00

Our firecracker baby turned one on July 4th. We had 2 fantastic celebrations for Kaylee's birthday. The weekend before her birthday Grandma & Grandpa Couch were visiting to help out during the race (post to come). Grandma & Grandpa Billings joined us as well and we had a wonderful 1st birthday party for Kaylee. After a pasta dinner (a Kaylee favorite & carb load for the race) we played a

Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08355070090095088683noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15622366.post-29059882620022231902010-07-03T22:56:00.015-07:002010-07-03T23:14:26.803-07:00

I can't believe it's already been 12 months since Kaylee LaRue joined our family. Now our baby is walking (though no more than 2 or 3 steps at a time), talking (duck, dog, off, mom), and eating like a big girl (her favorites are yogurt, cheese sticks, spaghetti, & chicken nuggets). She loves to play with her big brother's toys & the dog's water and her giggle is contagious. Kaylee's bright blue

Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08355070090095088683noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15622366.post-25437267299810792582010-06-27T19:55:00.013-07:002010-06-28T20:56:03.707-07:00

Wikipedia gives one definition of family as an exclusive group of people who share a close relationship. In that context, we've been spoiled to see LOTS of family lately.TEXAS FAMILY -Swansons and our family were close. We had become the type of friends that have no problem inviting each other over for leftovers, changing each other's chidren's poopy diapers, and consulting about what color to

Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08355070090095088683noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15622366.post-39803126464194715152010-06-15T21:33:00.003-07:002010-06-15T22:19:42.784-07:00

Several months ago a friend mentioned that several girls in our ward were beginning to train for the St. George marathon. The conversation went roughly like this.Me - "Cool! I've always wanted to run a marathon." (True)Her - "You should do it."Me - "Yeah, that would be awesome." (Yeah, right)Her - "Really."Me - "I'll think about it." (Done thinking . . . probably not this year)Later the same

Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08355070090095088683noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15622366.post-43122013045760845032010-06-11T23:39:00.005-07:002010-06-11T23:45:49.592-07:00

Mandi got Mindy to put up a photo booth for Luke's Birthday while we were in Idaho. Mindy took some pretty great photos of the Family.Here we are all with the props:Here we are without the props:Finally, here is a great picture of Kaylee. I think it really shows her personality:

Matthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04140175787193023620noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15622366.post-88845365985577264262010-05-26T14:23:00.015-07:002010-05-26T17:55:27.770-07:00

Kaylee loving an ant puzzle at the PSCFor Christmas my parents got us a membership to the Pacific Science Center , a museum in downtown Seattle that I've been going to since I was a kid. The best part is nothing has drastically changed there since I was 8 years old. Of course there have been updates and additions like the butterfly garden and genetics exhibit, but the shadow wall, outdoor water

Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08355070090095088683noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15622366.post-70993040831160619002010-05-20T20:35:00.004-07:002010-05-20T20:41:47.772-07:00

So it turns out I sort of like having a little boy.

Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08355070090095088683noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15622366.post-5293247385615505382010-05-19T21:17:00.003-07:002010-05-20T20:35:50.144-07:00

Cute . . . . . .but messy!On a positive note, we're pleased that Kaylee has taken suchan active role in our recycling efforts. She attempts to sort iton a daily basis. Thanks for the help cutie!

Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08355070090095088683noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15622366.post-1038710834911489502010-05-12T10:46:00.001-07:002010-05-12T10:47:47.268-07:00

I was totally wrong. Who knew mini-vans were so hip. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ql-N3F1FhW4

Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08355070090095088683noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15622366.post-64834433423026341702010-05-10T21:37:00.015-07:002010-05-11T07:21:43.270-07:00

Last year when we were looking at cars after Matt's 96 Toyota Corolla died, we considered buying a mini-van. Instead, we opted for a Volkswagen GTI to help make Matt's miserable commute a little more tolerable. We knew we would want a mini-van in the next few years, but didn't realize how soon. Our move to Washington has decreased the amount of air travel we've been doing, but has

Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08355070090095088683noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15622366.post-21095937918738532962010-05-06T20:00:00.006-07:002010-05-06T20:10:25.290-07:00

Waterfall trickling,Quiet granola bar break,Surrounded by green.

Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08355070090095088683noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15622366.post-38337276450683359662010-05-05T14:24:00.014-07:002010-05-05T14:52:27.622-07:00

A few weeks ago my friend Kristen had the brilliant idea of taking a day trip somewhere. Though no two days are ever quite the same when you're a mom, there's still monotony in the daily dressing, feeding, and cleaning that goes on. We agreed a getaway was just what we needed, so we loaded up the kids and drove to Leavenworth for the day. It was about as perfect as a day can get for Danny.He

Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08355070090095088683noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15622366.post-17684777858496754792010-05-01T21:36:00.003-07:002010-05-01T21:41:16.871-07:00

I've always wished I could bottle up this perfect sound. Then I could carry it around in my pocket and anytime I was feeling blue I would just open it up and listen to this contagious laughter. It brings a smile to my face every time I hear it. What sound or image does the same for you?

Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08355070090095088683noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15622366.post-71200622083119757892010-05-01T21:35:00.001-07:002010-05-01T21:43:06.425-07:00

Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08355070090095088683noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15622366.post-70318981170292063542010-04-25T20:40:00.007-07:002010-04-25T22:14:24.417-07:00

A few weekends ago we were able to take a quick trip to Houston using unused plane tickets from Christmas. It was wonderful to see friends and family that we've missed TONS! We had fun playing games, eating out, shopping, and making a day trip out to the countryside to enjoy the Blue Bonnets. Here are a few lists and pictures to summarize.Top 5 things we have not missed since moving:1. Long,

Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08355070090095088683noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15622366.post-88664328102760296722010-04-17T15:21:00.003-07:002010-04-17T15:29:45.977-07:00

We do get quite a bit of rain here in Seattle, but the locals don't mind a bit.

Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08355070090095088683noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15622366.post-28390189083272472442010-04-15T15:19:00.014-07:002010-04-15T15:57:55.284-07:00

I'm not sure where the last few weeks have gone, but somehow I've felt too busy to blog. We've had a lot of fun celebrating, especially since we have officially sold our old house. $ is in the bank and we're THRILLED to no longer have double the bills. Here are some highlights of the last month of celebration. Video warning - these are long and not that cute, but I thought the grandparents

Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08355070090095088683noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15622366.post-42421503453687595262010-03-23T14:34:00.002-07:002010-03-23T14:56:03.253-07:00

I've decided being a first time home buyer is FAR easier than the current state we are in. My family moved nearly every two years growing up, so I just assumed selling and buying houses was no big deal. Ha! This domino effect is MADDENING! We've looked at purchasing houses here, but can't buy until we sell our old house. (The old house that flooded and was off the market for 6 weeks). We

Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08355070090095088683noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15622366.post-70982940262144740742010-03-19T15:04:00.006-07:002010-03-19T15:13:36.285-07:00

When we told people we were moving to Seattle, the immediate reaction was, "Hope you like the rain." Though Houston actually has more rainfall per year, Seattle is known for it's endless gray days. Either it's been a very mild winter, or the sunny days have made up for the rainy ones. I still can't get enough of the mountains and water. Hopefully now that I've been away from it for so long

Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08355070090095088683noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15622366.post-74151267582200867432010-03-13T15:53:00.004-08:002010-03-13T16:24:29.850-08:00

Danny is obsessed with weapons at the moment (I say moment with hopes that this phase will eventually pass). Not too long ago we were going over to a new friend's house for the first time. Danny walked in, looked around, and said, "Where are your weapons?" Though I started parenthood with intentions of having a peaceful, weapon-free home, I have failed miserably. Danny has swords, light sabers

Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08355070090095088683noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15622366.post-68377644463114973742010-03-07T20:02:00.009-08:002010-03-07T20:36:16.058-08:00

What is it about feeding birds that is so entertaining? Whether it's pigeons on St. Mark's Square in Venice, macaws on the beach in Cozumel, or seagulls outside Ivar's in Seattle I just love it.I'm glad Danny and Kaylee have just as much fun with it as I do. Sadly, though for a good reason, most parks in the area do not allow you to feed the ducks. Luckily Ivar's, swarming with hungry seagulls,

Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08355070090095088683noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15622366.post-71925832318197148262010-03-03T21:36:00.008-08:002010-03-03T21:53:03.418-08:00

There has been a lot of paleontology enthusiasm at our house lately. Danny got a dinosaur egg in his Valentine's bag. We put the egg in water and checked on it daily (usually hourly). After 4 days it had almost completely hatched when Dozer knocked the "incubator" on the ground. The plastic dinosaur survived. The glass bowl did not. Danny was also thrilled that there was a T-Rex at the

Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08355070090095088683noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15622366.post-37733538457962280932010-02-25T07:26:00.003-08:002010-02-25T07:35:53.343-08:00

The scriptures teach that we should use all things with judgement and not in excess (D&C 59:20). Looks like we have some more teaching to do with Danny.

Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08355070090095088683noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15622366.post-83480572437425792032010-02-20T20:09:00.016-08:002010-02-20T20:32:09.020-08:00

So after checking out these pictures, I'm pretty sure you too will want to come visit us on our new turf! There are so many fun things to do . . .Alex & Anne at the Space NeedleInternational Fountain at the Seattle Center(Notice how my dad is trying to push my mom in)Pike Place MarketFerry Ride to BremertonFun at the WaterfrontCougar Mountain ZooAnd I forgot to take any pictures at the Pacific

Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08355070090095088683noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15622366.post-77741492989041550482010-02-16T20:53:00.010-08:002010-02-16T21:17:15.444-08:00

Another great find at Pike Place Market - thanks Matt! Following a tradition my family had while I was growing up, we made and opened Valentine bags to celebrate the day of love. I'm really enjoying Danny's memory and enthusiasm for traditions now that he is getting older. He had a great time creating pirate Valentine's because hey, nothing says "I love you" quite like cannonballs and a skull.

Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08355070090095088683noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15622366.post-47634924085595935902010-02-14T21:03:00.000-08:002010-02-14T21:03:20.354-08:00

Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08355070090095088683noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15622366.post-72975876779722793032010-02-11T15:24:00.009-08:002010-02-11T15:33:59.893-08:00

So this whole week I've sort of been in a funk. For whatever reason I've just felt really grouchy about being a mom. Maybe it's because I've been up changing wet sheets every night or because the dogs got into our bathroom trashcan for the billionth time or because I've done 3 loads of laundry every day this week (mostly Kaylee's and mine covered in baby food). . . . just normal stuff, but I've

Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08355070090095088683noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15622366.post-4446461667134488842010-02-09T14:33:00.007-08:002010-02-09T14:47:44.579-08:00

Our new favorite place to find yummy samples, tasty baked goods, and loads of fresh food. Touristy as it is, we love Pike Place Market!Last week Kaylee had her 6 month check-up. Though it was her first visit with this new pediatrician, he quickly diagnosed her. "She's stubborn and has a strong-will." Not sure if I like the doctor or not, but he's accurate in his diagnosis. We've been working

Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08355070090095088683noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15622366.post-31796632363816721532010-02-04T13:57:00.004-08:002010-02-04T14:31:20.318-08:00

We found out we'd be moving on Oct. 7. Everything was moved out of our house on Dec. 7 and the kids and I left on Dec. 8. Needless to say life has been a bit of a whirlwind the last several months. I finally figured out how to create photo collages (and now I'm wondering why I didn't figure it out sooner - SO EASY!) so here's a quick recap of things I wanted to blog about, but just didn't have

Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08355070090095088683noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15622366.post-77638475291109569802010-01-27T21:35:00.008-08:002010-01-27T22:02:54.510-08:00

Today the contractors should have finished putting the new carpet in our old house. Anne took some pictures for us and it all seems very backwards. Here are the before and after shots.Before the refrigerator flooded the entire first floor.After the flood, lots of phone calls with insurance people, and several contractors later. I'm sure with the new carpet it looks lovely, but it's just

Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08355070090095088683noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15622366.post-79178187954623885702010-01-19T20:38:00.009-08:002010-01-19T21:11:31.944-08:00

Shortly after finding out we'd be moving, Matt and I decided we needed to ship off the beagles asap. With Matt commuting back and forth between Seattle and me trying to fix up the house we decided it would be too hard with two beagles. Especially because most of the fixing up that needed to be done was originally caused by the hounds and would likely get undone quickly if they stuck around.

Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08355070090095088683noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15622366.post-42003544023854388562010-01-17T20:31:00.011-08:002010-01-17T21:11:17.347-08:00

Hooray for finally feeling settled. The last 4 months have been a whirlwind and its wonderful to finally feel some sense of normalcy in our lives again. Here are a few highlights of our family being on the move . . .This was an AWESOME first house. The For Sale sign is still there . . . any buyers? It is actually off the market at the moment due to some unexpected fridge malfunction and

Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08355070090095088683noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15622366.post-42296888471024276302009-11-04T19:28:00.014-08:002009-11-04T19:55:47.869-08:00

This year Danny was thrilled to be Buzz Light Year for Halloween. His cousin Jaxon let him use his old costume and it fit perfectly! We had a festive dinner with Billings and all the kids looked fantastic.Eli Bear, Fall Fairy Brenna, Buzz, Asian Princess Leah, and Alex the Samurai. Danny's friend Elena was also visiting from Austin. She made a pretty cute giraffe, even if she didn't score too

Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08355070090095088683noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15622366.post-84751158245358397632009-10-28T21:02:00.017-07:002009-10-28T21:28:46.539-07:00

I decided to take a break from packing, painting, and decluttering to catch up on a little blogging. A couple weeks ago we celebrated Danny's 3rd birthday with a rocket birthday party at the park. The kids had fun building and painting their own rockets (with some help from moms).Danny's lunch request was his dad's chicken wings. YUM!We hunted for moon rocks (candy wrapped in foil), had a real

Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08355070090095088683noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15622366.post-76991338569452738362009-10-26T23:24:00.004-07:002009-10-26T23:34:02.591-07:00

I'm supposed to be in bed right now, but I've been taking a stroll down memory lane, reading through four years of blog posts and watching my family grow and change. It's been an incredible journey.And, a new stage in our journey is about to begin. I'm writing this post from a hotel room in Seattle, where my company is transferring us. Carrie and I are excited to move back to the West but we are

Matthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04140175787193023620noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15622366.post-88785946752669999082009-10-12T18:56:00.016-07:002009-10-12T19:42:22.505-07:00

Danny got some real spoiling during fair week. On the second day he ran up to G-Pops and said, "Hi G-Pops! Can we go buy stuff now?" Grandpa had already treated him to ice cream, a wagon ride full of cousins, carnival rides, and a new toy sword. Danny caught on a little too quickly.It never ceases to amaze me how expensive EVERYTHING is at any sort of carnival or fair though. Once you enter

Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08355070090095088683noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15622366.post-6072831841052400562009-10-10T11:47:00.002-07:002009-10-10T12:12:21.097-07:00

Shortly after Kaylee was born, her three-year-old cousin Kaya decided she wanted to be called Kaylee as well. Having an extra baby Kaylee during fair week was a little confusing at times."Kaya, can you come here?""No. I'm baby Kaylee." It became particularly confusing when G-Pops bought Kaya a doll at the fair. "Kaya, I mean baby Kaylee, what is your dollies name?" I asked.She got a big grin

Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08355070090095088683noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15622366.post-12481394884858641022009-10-05T19:00:00.014-07:002009-10-05T19:17:58.288-07:00

One of the best parts of our visit to Idaho was that Kaylee finally got to meet most of Matt's side of the family. I missed getting pictures of her with everybody, but here's the ones I did get. Kaylee met . . .Cousin OliviaCousin SarahCousin CorbinG-PopsGrandma AngieCousin CalieAunt MindyCousin KayaAnd some scary fair guy . . . . oh wait. That's just dad with some facial hair and a

Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08355070090095088683noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15622366.post-69440835150516844142009-10-02T18:52:00.004-07:002009-10-02T19:19:22.529-07:00

For some reason, the mechanical bull really called to me this year at the fair. Did I take a ride though? Nope. Instead I let my 2 year old son face the beast. Twice. Apparently he had enough fun that he did want to do it again. After watching Danny ride, some of his cousins decided the bull was a little too scary though. Uncle Lance rode instead. Maybe if rec management doesn't

Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08355070090095088683noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15622366.post-86434226112346574192009-09-28T12:12:00.009-07:002009-09-28T12:34:32.251-07:00

Kaylee had a fun trip to Richland too. Really, as long as she's got milk and sleep, she's pretty happy. She had so much excitement on the trip that she started sleeping really well at night. Hooray! Kaylee got to hang out with Uncle Aaron and Joy . . . not sure who was furrier. :) Grandpa Couch loved giving Kaylee snuggles, and didn't even mind that she was often on edge and screamy when he

Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08355070090095088683noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15622366.post-47101918662482371532009-09-25T19:27:00.009-07:002009-09-25T19:46:12.772-07:00

Danny has a recent obsession with bows and arrows, sparked by the story of Nephi's broken bow. In an effort to help Danny liken the scriptures :) Grandma Couch bought Danny his own bow and arrow when she was visiting after Kaylee's birth. Sadly, the cheap plastic toy was a bad shot (go figure - the $3 toy doesn't work very well). When we were in Washington, Grandma got out her finely crafted

Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08355070090095088683noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15622366.post-60166309462349831032009-09-24T19:37:00.012-07:002009-09-24T20:04:32.705-07:00

Danny, Kaylee, and I had a wonderful trip to my home in Richland the first week in September. We then met up with Matt at his home in Idaho. Now, after almost 3 weeks of travel we are back home in Texas. It's wonderful to have 3 places that feel like home! I'll be posting different trip adventures in several blogs, but here's a start.I was really nervous about flying solo with Danny & Kaylee

Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08355070090095088683noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15622366.post-75190785318880953892009-09-07T14:24:00.001-07:002009-09-07T14:37:52.096-07:00

Greetings from the Eastern Idaho State Fair. Danny, Kaylee, and I had a wonderful trip to Washington to visit my parents. I forgot the USB cord to download pictures, so those will have to come later. They drove us over to Idaho to meet up with Matt and the Hong crew. Now we are up to our elbows in teriyaki chicken. Kaylee did quite well on her first plane ride, terrible on her first long car

Matthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04140175787193023620noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15622366.post-65952657360122622402009-08-24T13:54:00.002-07:002009-08-24T14:06:38.578-07:00

So the other day I got a random catalog in the mail. I found myself leafing through every page as I nursed Kaylee. It was hilarious to see the vast assortment of . . . I don't even know what to call it. Junk? Clutter? In this same catalog I could find hair volumizing inserts, a giant cupcake pan, NASCAR collectible crystal cars, lighted garland for your computer monitor, magnetic art for

Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08355070090095088683noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15622366.post-5529167192551708052009-08-22T13:22:00.009-07:002009-08-22T13:29:45.417-07:00

Look how quickly she's progressing! That's our girl! I think she's been practicing really hard for all the aunts, uncles, and grandparents she'll see on our upcoming trip to Washington and Idaho. We can't wait to see everyone!

Matthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04140175787193023620noreply@blogger.com2