tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28366755344973359842024-03-12T18:48:25.444-07:00This is a time to be happy. . .This is us. These are our kiddos. And life is teaching us that each day together is a time to be happy! Not to say that we spend each moment of each day bursting with the giggles. But at the end of the day, when we add up all the moments, it seems to be the giggly ones that stand out.kellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00128212914241770324noreply@blogger.comBlogger721125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2836675534497335984.post-61005883321585254032020-04-15T07:20:00.003-07:002020-04-15T07:20:24.473-07:00Finding The Happy (or in other words, Living Through A Worldwide Pandemic)
<br />
For some reason, I haven’t really written anything about our
daily lives since we’ve gone into quarantine mode. (Which is funny, considering
I have repeatedly told the kids that they are living history and shout be
writing this all down). It doesn’t happen very often, I know...but
for some odd reason I haven't had much to say. This whole thing has rendered me
speechless.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
But last night, I went on a long car ride with my senior
girl who is so, so sad about all of the memories-to-be-made that have been
suddenly erased from her last year of high school. After almost a month of homeschool, yesterday it was announced that schools would be closed for the rest of the year. I mostly knew it was coming, but still. All of the “lasts”, senior
ball, red & white, time with friends, lacrosse season (that she has been
optimistically practicing for every day), senior trips, college visits, and
time with friends (worth two mentions because she is that disappointed), and of
course, graduation. How does this even happen? Sure, these kids are resilient
and they’ll get through life just fine. Better than fine, I believe. But this?
It’s hard right now.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
My almost 16 year old is nervous she won’t get her license
on time. The girl who has always marked time by how many “fun things” she has
that day...she misses her friends too. She misses all the fun things. She
thrives on people and conversation and her options are a bit limited right now. Going to work for Aunt Kelsey has become a highlight. A fashion show of sorts. When you have a reason to get dressed and do your hair, you GET DRESSED AND DO YOUR HAIR!!! Especially this girl.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
My fifth grader. A social butterfly as well. The girl who
had finally adjusted to her new elementary school and is worried she’ll never see all of
her new found friends who will be going to a different high school next year. Also, the end of fifth grade and the elementary years isn't senior year, but it is a right of passage and to her, it all seems so unfair.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
My little guy. He’s loving all the outside time. He is
constantly tinkering. We had a bike set up on the trainer in our family room (courtesy of Sam) the other day. He is shooting at things from his bedroom window (don’t ask🤦🏼♀️),
planning fishing trips, and watching as many “Finding Bigfoot” & “The
Cowboy Way” episodes as his mom will allow. His boyhood is thriving. His
schoolwork? Not so much.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Oh, and my oldest? On strict quarantine in one of the
biggest cities in the nation. She can longer go to the grocery store and has
learned how to freeze and unthaw gallons of milk & cook dried beans (and
everyone should know how to freeze and unthaw milk & cook dried beans, I suppose).
She’s had a few pretty darn discouraging days this month, but is “pulling up
her big girl pants” and moving ahead. Because really, life is all about pulling
up our big kid pants and also- that’s what everyone is doing right now. She is
happy and well and thankfully still gets one outing a week to the laundromat, hooray! They play country music over the sound system there, so it's an outing plus George Strait (if she is lucky). I passed on her grandma's suggestion that perhaps she should do her laundry at home, in the sink :). That went over about how I thought it would. After all, what would life be without one outing a week? <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
We are constantly re-working a sort of loose routine. (I’ve
never been good at strict-anything). The kids have picked up water coloring,
online schooling, and parenting each other on the hourly. I’ve picked up
grocery shopping for four households at a time, reading family history, and
instructing my kids 1053 times a day that the ONLY PERSON YOU HAVE TO WORRY
ABOUT US YOURSELF BECAUSE LUCKY FOR YOU, YOU AREN’T A PARENT YET!!! And...ONE
DAY YOU’LL HAVE TO WORRY ABOUT WHAT ALLLLLLL THE PEOPLE IN YOUR HOUSE ARE DOING
BUT LUCKY FOR YOU THAT TIME.IS.NOT.TODAY.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Aaaaaaand….......Deep breath.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Really, we have it pretty darn easy, something that I remind
the kids & myself often. We are so lucky to live in the country, where
we have plenty of room to run & go on walks and a little house that’s just
big enough that we don’t touch each other every time we turn. We are eating dinner
together every night. We are more consistent at the things that really matter, but not perfect. (And really, I have no excuses except we are just us and I
haven’t found anything we are even close to perfect at, so we’ll just keep
striving for a little improvement on our normal mediocre). At a time when so
many are experiencing such heartache and financial stress and deep worries, are we healthy and
happy and home.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
You’d think I’d have lots of time to have everything whipped
into shape but I don’t. (Have everything whipped into shape, that is. I have
the time, but not the whipping-into shape-ability, apparently). I am enjoying
my kids being close (except for all of the self-proclaimed parenting, of
course). I like the slower pace, the almost daily walks. I love the art work
laying all over the wood stove. The slow dinners. Baking bread and having time
to cook dinner every night. But also I am also a little tired of cooking dinner
every night.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
In all honesty, part of me is scared that everything will go
back to the way it was before, and part of me is scared it will never go back
to the way it was before.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
This time, right now. It’s like nothing I’ve ever
experienced. One day, I think we’ll look back and look upon it as a
sacred, holy time.<br />
<br />
I’ve been thinking and even talking to my older kids how, when you’re right in the midst of the biggest, best growing seasons, it doesn’t
feel sacred at all. It’s hard and it sometimes hurts. Growing involves two
steps forward and one step back. It can feel like we are not going anywhere at
all.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Life. I am learning that in all experiences, there are these
little glimmers of light. The very things that make it so hard - the
interruptions to life-as-we-knew-it...those<i> un-asked for</i> spaces. They are what lets
the light in.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
This is a time to be happy.<br />
<br />
We have trained ourselves to
fill the empty spaces. If there is a hole in the day, we fill it. A gap in the
schedule? We find something to shove in the cracks. But this. This is a time to
<i>learn.</i> This pandemic is teaching us<i> </i>how to find beauty in the unplanned and the unwanted. The cracks and the crevices
that we never even asked for.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Now is a time to <i>find </i>the happy. It’s time to let the light
in.<br />
<br />
<br />
<b></b><i></i><u></u><sub></sub><sup></sup><strike></strike>kellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00128212914241770324noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2836675534497335984.post-36116022855594154962020-04-15T06:59:00.002-07:002020-04-15T06:59:14.968-07:00I'm gonna start writing again.
<br />
I used to keep up this old blog, fairly consistently. It was
my therapy. I started writing on a whim - a challenge from a friend when
blogging was first booming. At the time, I was in a pretty low place. Three
young kids, a hard-working husband who was rarely home, the financial stresses
of self-employment...I couldn’t see my life ever being anything different
than it was at that moment. I think I was stuck in a post-postpartum
depression.<br />
<br />
Little did I know, that little blog saved me. It saved my motherhood.
I started to write about our craziness. And once I started to write, the
infuriating became hilarious. I could find the purpose in the midst of the hard. All of the sudden, I could see the good. Three kids eventually became four and
four became five. I got sick and the kids got busier and something (lots of
somethings) had to go. After a while, instagram became a thing and I started
recording our crazy there. It was quicker and I needed quick.<br />
<br />
I’ve been wanting
to get back to it, the longer musings. But, busy reigns.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
This morning I decided it is time. Maybe it’s because I’ve
been reading old journals. All of those “ordinary days” of my grandparents have
brought light and direction and mostly just light. All things that I didn’t even know I needed. Then last night,
Claire & Sam wanted to read our old blog books for bedtime. The kids have always loved reading them. <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
When I woke up this morning, I knew. It’s time. Maybe just for a minute or two, but I’m gonna
start writing again.<br />
<b></b><i></i><u></u><sub></sub><sup></sup><strike></strike>kellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00128212914241770324noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2836675534497335984.post-40398295006972115702016-04-09T00:44:00.001-07:002016-04-09T00:44:33.025-07:00a heavy load, it seemsIt's one o'clock in the morning and I should be sleeping, but not tonight.<br />
<br />
Nothing is really very wrong at all, but it is one of those days where life feels a bit overwhelming. When all the little things seem like big things, all piled up and making with me feel like I don't have much of a say in any of it. And because I know deep down that everything is mostly okay and I have so much to be thankful for, I am left looking at myself and thinking I am a bit silly- because I know that my load is a pretty darn easy load in comparison to so many others. <br />
<br />
Mostly, I'm probably just a bit tired and discouraged which always makes things look bigger than they are. <br />
<br />
This week was spring break. Courtney was working out of town for the week, and with the kids having a full 4 days out of school I put my whole heart into trying to make it fun and memorable. A trip to the park, kite flying, a great walk one evening, and a few days in the city with a fun hotel stay. Nothing monumental, but I really tried to be present, you know? Days 1-4 went so well, but day 5 was a little rough. I came down with a little stomach bug, got frustrated and lost my cool trying to enlist help around the house, spent 3+ hours at the ER with Sam after he stuck himself with Court's epi-pen, and then ended the day with what feels like a mounting disagreement/discipline situation. Why is it that one day out of five makes me feel like I'm failing? <br />
<br />
This parenting stuff can be pretty hard sometimes. I sure wish I was better at it. Slower to anger, quicker to see the good. It's a slow march I'm making toward becoming the person I'd like to be, and nothing makes that more apparent than when I slip up with the ones I love.<br />
<br />
For me, I think it is the lack of control. It's funny, I never thought of myself as being a control freak 'til I became a parent. It is obvious to me now how much I struggle with it. It's so easy to speak of agency and all of it's virtues when everyone is doing that which is agreeable. But when those choices are contrary to what I have in mind, I find my weaknesses making a grand showing. <br />
<br />
A few weeks ago, I read the statement "Real growth cannot happen without real freedom." It struck a chord, and today has reminded me that I have a long way to go in understanding agency in relation to parenting and family life. Lots of prayers needed on this front, that's for sure. <br />
<br />
But, tomorrow is a new day and I'm sure it will all seem sunshiney-er in the morning (I made up that word just now). That's the thing. There is always something good in every day- even today. I can think back on the things Sam said that made me laugh- for instance, when the monitor at the hospital kept going off and we told him we couldn't make it stop. He told us matter-of-factly that all you need to do to fix a computer is to push X a couple of times. Kate won her first soccer game of the season, which I think she was a little nervous about. Physically- I'm feeling much better than I was this afternoon. Sam's ER visit was perfectly smooth-sailing- and hopefully a lesson was learned. Everyone is sleeping, safe and sound and healthy. And tomorrow we'll start fresh and try again. This really is A Time To Be Happy.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />kellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00128212914241770324noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2836675534497335984.post-63790061503796201912015-05-18T09:00:00.003-07:002015-05-18T09:00:46.584-07:00flyingTime is flying by. <br />
<br />
I've heard it said of parenting that "the days are long, but the years are short". I look back at the younger years and remember the truth of that. I recall the long days, waiting 'til daddy got home from work. I loved those days, but there was an endless feel to them. <br />
<br />
My days don't feel long anymore. Right now, it seems as though the days are short and so are the years. These are days of waking up early and sending kiddos off in phases. First the older two, trading advice on outfit choices, swapping sandals and jewelry, trying new hair styles. Prayers, afterschool activity updates, and they're off. Next, wake the younger two girls. Breakfast, hair, talking Claire into a jacket, and too often a hurried reading of the baggy books that didn't get read the day before. Once again- prayers, "Choose the right and Be Kind!" and waving through the doorway as they climb on the bus. By this time, Sam is sometimes awake and sometimes still sleeping. If he's still asleep, I peek in on him. He has taken to sleeping on a castoff crib mattress on the floor between Emmy and Claire's bed. He is sleeping much better now he has roommates. I walk into the older girls quiet rooms, stepping over the tossed-on-the-floor clothing (the obvious losers of that particular days fashion show). I turn out lights, raise the blinds, and shut the door for the day. <br />
<br />
I like our busily quiet mornings. I tackle my list for the day. Sam watches a show or plays while I do a barre workout, we tidy the house, throw in some laundry, and if I'm on my game, start something for dinner. There are dishes to be done, rooms that need cleaning, and a house that gets straightened in preparation for the whirlwind that arrives in a few hours as the girls start arriving from school. Most mornings include a call to Grandpa from Mr. Sam, in hopes he can "go to work". Now that the weather is warming up, there is grass to be mowed, flowers to be planted, and weeds to pull. <br />
<br />
Claire arrives just before lunch, hungry and sometimes a little <strike>grouchy</strike> tired from her big morning away. We eat lunch, chat about the day, and she and Sam often head somewhere to play. Lately, they are into catching pet worms (although Claire insists no worm will ever match-up to last weeks "Lucy" in terms of friendliness. RIP Lucy.) On a good day, Claire talks me into making cookies with her. Since making cookies is one of my favorite things to do, that happens pretty often. <br />
<br />
Emmy comes next, and is always greeted with enthusiasm by the littles because she comes up with such fun activities for them to play. School is her favorite, but no matter the itinerary, it almost <i>always</i> involves her teaching them something. <br />
<br />
Kate follows shortly after- unless she stays after for math club, to work on History Fair, or lately, to practice soccer with Ashley. It is snacks, homework, and then reading. Lots of reading. I usually have to cut it short in favor of a few chores getting done :). <br />
<br />
Ryenne is mostly gone: to work, practice, after school activities or with friends every chance she gets. It feels strange to have her off and away so often, becoming so awfully independent. Of course, this all involves a lot of driving around and picking up and dropping off, which makes me almost ready to send her off in a car before long. <i>Almost</i>, but not quite.<br />
<br />
Games, practices, homework, efforts to motivate kiddos to clean rooms that will be messy again by morning. After school snacks and playing referee for the days disagreements. Chatting with cheerful kids on good days and cheering up disgruntled kiddos on the not-so-good-days. "Happys and sads" around the dinner table. <br />
<br />
Showers and notes signed and books read and pajamas. Scriptures and prayers if we are doing it the way we should, which of course, isn't every night but hopefully enough nights to make a difference. Bedtime stories and bedtime kisses and if I'm being honest, bedtime battles. Checking texts on teenage cell phones and often, following up with discussions about such things. Long gone are the days of kids being in bed by 8. (These older kids have stamina, I tell you.)<br />
<br />
Finally I climb into bed, tired but mostly happy. Weary from a full day and wondering if I'm doing it right. Already making lists for the day ahead and saying quiet prayers and wondering about this child or that child and hoping they're getting everything they need from me. Puzzling over what it is that I can do to be kinder, more patient, and create stronger relationships that will get our little family over the bumps that lie ahead. Feeling thankful for this little family of mine and for a job that stretches me more than I ever imagined. <br />
<br />
These are short days. . . filled with people who I love the best and who grow me the most. And I wouldn't trade a thing.<br />
<br />
<br />kellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00128212914241770324noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2836675534497335984.post-39238802801788894462015-02-25T13:22:00.000-08:002015-02-25T13:22:01.095-08:00a flower for mom<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />kellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00128212914241770324noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2836675534497335984.post-4526958131168035922015-02-25T13:20:00.001-08:002015-02-25T13:20:57.391-08:00wo-jo family reunion. . .bear lake<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Cole and Julie were in charge of last year's Wo-Jo reunion and it turned out to be so much fun. We met up (with the exception of Josh & Kendra) in Bear Lake at a super fun cabin for a few days of fun. The kids look forward to our family reunions all year long, which is no surprise because it is always non-stop family fun! </div>
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Some of the highlights were seeing Minetonka cave, swimming at the pool, and of course spending a few afternoons at the lake. We had a huge tube to pull everyone behind the boat, which led to Courtney doing his very best to get everyone <i>off</i> the tube! Those of us waiting on the beach could hear the laughter all the way from out on the water! It was lots of fun! We ended the weekend with a stop for Raspberry shakes (because, how can you not?) and said our goodbyes. Already looking forward to this summer!</div>
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<br />kellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00128212914241770324noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2836675534497335984.post-774916052168708402015-02-25T13:12:00.002-08:002015-02-25T13:12:33.797-08:00ogden temple open house<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />kellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00128212914241770324noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2836675534497335984.post-62512810978084184502015-02-25T13:09:00.000-08:002015-02-25T13:09:47.952-08:00county fair fun<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Sadly, we lost all the pictures from the fair that were on my phone, so we only have a few from Courtney's. </div>
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I'm so behind, I can hardly remember anything about that week! I do remember it was super cold- which was strange because we are usually dying of heat stroke in the lamb barn and this year we nearly froze! It rained a lot during the days too. It was just a strange year. </div>
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We did venture over to an antique tractor display one afternoon, and the kids were especially impressed with this pink tractor!</div>
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Of course, Claire and Sam were part of the Pee Wee lead, which is kind of a pain in my you-know-what each year but always turns out to be a lot of fun. And if I must say so myself, we've had some pretty good kid/lamb costumes over the years. This year was pretty darn funny, but unfortunately we don't have any good pictures. Claire and Sam were vintage bathing beauties, and the lamb was in scuba attire (complete with scuba fins which were hilarious). Sam decided he was done with his goggles about two minutes into it, and the flowers had mostly fallen off Claire's swimming cap by the time this picture was taken, but you get the idea. When they judge asked Claire about her costume, she said "We want to go swimming 'baaaaaaa'd'". They won, of course :). <br />
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Aaaaaaand another year bites the dust. </div>
<br />kellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00128212914241770324noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2836675534497335984.post-17604257653520557342015-02-25T12:53:00.002-08:002015-02-25T12:53:45.862-08:00the day miss claire went to work with daddy<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />kellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00128212914241770324noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2836675534497335984.post-43915957738188704852015-02-16T13:48:00.000-08:002015-02-25T13:10:36.926-08:00livin' the lamb life<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The kids spent another summer working with their lambs. Sometimes happily, sometimes not! They had a good fair, and Kate even broke her third place mold (I think? It's hard to remember!) I lost about two months pictures from my phone, including the fair, state fair, and the first day of school. I'm still trying not to cry about losing all those pictures! Anyway, it's hard for me to remember how the shows went, because obviously I'm super competitive with our kids and never forget things like that. :) The thing that matters is that they are learning to work hard, right? This year was Emmy's first year showing lambs (I know! No pictures!) and she did a great job! </div>
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<br />kellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00128212914241770324noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2836675534497335984.post-51102503258999531172015-02-16T13:36:00.001-08:002015-02-16T13:36:18.971-08:00lake powell 2014<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Lake Powell never disappoints as our kids favorite vacation spot. They absolutely love everything about it! I'm so happy they get to experience it and love it so much. We've been so lucky to be able to tag along with Grandma and Grandpa Croney each summer- I think it's one of the most highly anticipated events of the summer! </div>
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A few highlights from our last trip:</div>
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1- Night wakeboarding/surfing with the three Croney boys. The kids begged Ronnie and Courtney all week! I admit I was a little nervous to pull Courtney surfing in the dark, but the kids had an absolute ball. And no, Grandpa didn't think it was the smartest idea. But you're only young once, right?</div>
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2. Sam trying "belly surfing" for the first time. If you know Sam, you know about his cute, but very deep, growly, little voice. He would tell us when he was ready to go by saying "Hit it slowly." That was our favorite line of the week!</div>
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3. As always, jumping off the house boat. The kids especially love when Grandma gives them glow sticks to throw in at night, so they can jump in after them in the dark.</div>
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There's nothing better than a Lake Powell adventure!</div>
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<br />kellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00128212914241770324noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2836675534497335984.post-87706862086697018792015-02-16T13:25:00.003-08:002015-02-16T13:25:48.311-08:00our little chore boy<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
These pictures made me laugh when I was downloading pictures. Not sure who put him up to this or what he was doing (which describes a lot of the events in his life). But I had to smile to see him hard at work because this kid loves to be helping, especially if it is outside! I often let him fill up the wood box, feed the dog, and help with the garbage duties. He loves to see what his dad is doing and then figures out a way to do that job too. The other day I heard him outside in the garage and found him dragging the chainsaw out of the garage. He was headed to the woodpile to cut some wood! We have to be careful at keeping the keys to his dad's equipment out of reach because he thinks he is capable and sometimes gets keys stuck in the wrong ignition! We love our busy Sam!</div>
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<br />kellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00128212914241770324noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2836675534497335984.post-20704667679255985392015-02-16T13:19:00.000-08:002015-02-16T13:19:08.370-08:00katerrific!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We've always had a handful of nicknames for Kate. Kater-bugs, Kate the great, and Bugsie are a few. But I think my favorite is Katerrific! She is such a terrific girl, and a great blessing to our family. We can't believe she turned 12 this past summer. I'm so far behind in my blogging that she's actually closer to thirteen than twelve now! </div>
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Kate turned twelve just <i>barely </i>after our girls camp in our ward, but was thrilled when the Bishop thought she should go to camp. The girls had a great time. I was a little worried about her and Ryenne getting along, but everyone assured me that they did just fine :). You never know! The weather was freeeeeeezing cold, but the girls had a ball in the cozy yurt they were staying in- playing games and getting to know everyone better. In fact, it ended up being Ryenne's favorite camp! </div>
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On Kate's actual birthday, I asked her if she'd like to go shopping and have a girls day with me. She was excited, and asked if she could surprise everyone by getting her ears pierced! We did that first thing and although she was very, very nervous, she did just fine and was quite pleased with her new look! </div>
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We spent the afternoon finding her some cute clothes and went to lunch together. It was so much fun spending the day together.</div>
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A few things about Kate. . .She has a big heart. She is very sensitive to others feelings, and especially to me. If she knows she has hurt my feelings or gotten angry at me, she is quick to say she is sorry. She has always been very perceptive of how I am doing, and if she can tell I am tired or frustrated, she tends to get everyone working together to help me out and work as a team a little better. </div>
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Kate loves to learn. She is a fantastic reader and is always begging me to take her to the library! Sometimes I have to remind her that she has other things to get done too because she would read all day if I let her. She's a lot like me that way! She tries really hard at school and I never have to nag her to get her homework done, which is so nice. </div>
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She's a great worker once she puts her mind to it. She loves to go help Grandma and Grandpa Jones with the sheep, or any other chores they need done. Out of all the kids, I think she enjoys working with the sheep the most.</div>
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Kate is her dad's biggest partner when it comes to cheering on the Patriots! She loves watching football with him. While the other girls are big fans, she is the one who watches every game (and gets a little irked if she has to miss part of a game!) She knows the players, the stats, and this year made a chart to keep track of the playoffs. She makes me smile, and makes her dad very happy!</div>
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We sure love Kate. She is kind, smart, and beautiful. She tries her hardest in everything she does. She is good through and through. We love our terrific Katerrific!</div>
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<br />kellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00128212914241770324noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2836675534497335984.post-52503474982937934492015-02-16T13:00:00.000-08:002015-02-16T13:00:04.897-08:00more croney reunion fun<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Last summer's Croney Family reunion was held in conjunction with the cousin camp at Aunt Jodi's house. As the weekend approached, the dads arrived and we had even more fun! (We did give the kids a break from family history and had plenty of fun during the week too!) </div>
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One afternoon, after some family history, we headed up into the canyons near Aunt Jodi's house to hike to the Timpinogos Cave. Aunt Kerri was a trooper and stuck with Claire, motivating her to hike to the top! After all that hard work, we found out she wouldn't be able to see the cave because we were short a few tickets. This cute couple gave her their tickets so she could go inside. They were also so cute to walk with us on the trail down, listening to her chatter and giving her snacks!</div>
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We also celebrated Kate and Carson's birthdays while we were there. Not sure why Carson is wearing goggles :). </div>
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The kids swam and played in the hot tub every spare second they had. All of our girls ended up with swimmers earaches. Thankfully, Aunt Amy came to the rescue with her ear drop concoction and got them feeling better. </div>
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Of course, no Croney family reunion is complete without a little boating! We spent a few days/evenings on the lake, with the kids hopping from one boat to the next the whole time! I think it's safe to say that we've raised a whole bunch of fishes!</div>
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These cousins have so much fun together. There's nothing better than family!</div>
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<br />kellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00128212914241770324noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2836675534497335984.post-32168917651943216302015-02-12T10:07:00.001-08:002015-02-12T10:07:01.491-08:00family history cousin camp<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Lucky for me, I have the most talented and kind sisters and sisters-in-law. (In my view, they are all my sisters). They inspire me all time, and my whole family benefits from their talents. The family history cousin camp my sister Jodi held this summer was just one of those times. </div>
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I have always loved history, but haven't done a lot with researching our family history. Our family history is a pretty complicated story, filled with murder and intrigue (really!) and although my parents have tried to find answers, they have been met with frustration every time. That is, until Jodi got involved. She has been amazing and they have had some major breakthroughs that have helped us find answers and understand so much more about my dad's grandparents and our family history. </div>
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This past summer, shes held a family cousin camp at her house, where she taught the kids how to research a name, fill in the blanks on the Familysearch site, and find names to take to the temple to link our family together. It was pretty awesome. Not without complaint, mind you :). We may or may not have had to chase kids down a few times and drag them back! But in the end, I think they each understood much more and each one found at least one name to take to the temple. After a few days of camp, the twelve-and-above group took all the names to the temple to do baptisms. </div>
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Kate was especially inspired by what she learned, and has since spent hours finding names and preparing them for the temple. I'm guessing she's found at least 50 names!</div>
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We also spent an afternoon at the Salt Lake City cemetary, learning more about some our grandparents and ancestors, and finding the grave of Willard Richards, who is my grandma Sally's great grandfather. It was an afternoon well spent. </div>
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(Love Ryenne in this picture- full of enthusiasm, eh? I would say this is a pretty good example of the response we got when we suggested the family history camp idea!)</div>
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<br />kellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00128212914241770324noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2836675534497335984.post-77561443556061958852015-02-11T16:20:00.002-08:002015-02-11T16:20:41.496-08:00cousins/best friends<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Found these pictures on my phone the other day. They were taken at my nephew's farewell before he left for his mission in the Czech Republic. Needless to say, I smiled when I looked at them. We were missing Mckell, who is serving her mission in Oklahoma (8 months to go!) </div>
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These kiddos are the best of friends. They have so much fun together and make me laugh so much. I admit, I teared up a little that night thinking that from here on out, it will be an awfully long time before they're together again. They'll leave on missions one after the next, which makes me so happy and proud of the great kiddos they are, but a little sad at the same time. They're growing up! And I love them all so much. </div>
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Kye has a friend fighting cancer, and so he and his friends decided to shave their heads in support of him. He asked David if he would do the honors. Once again, a bunch of great kids. (Who by the way, couldn't take a normal picture to save their lives! </div>
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<br />kellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00128212914241770324noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2836675534497335984.post-35923713956793442292015-02-09T06:41:00.000-08:002015-02-09T06:41:26.646-08:00volleyball!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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When Ryenne came to us last year and told us she wanted to try out for the high school volleyball team, I was a little stunned. And worried. After all, this is the girl who has never played on a sports team (except one year of kindergarten soccer maybe?) She is an talented ballerina and has taken since she was five years old. So I'm not saying she's not an athlete, because believe me. If you have ever watched a pointe ballet class, you couldn't say those kids aren't athletes. That takes some serious skills. </div>
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But still, she definitely hadn't played volleyball before. These days, it seems like you have a to play a sport from the time you're in diapers in order to make the high school team! I was worried she wouldn't make it. I worried she'd be devastated and embarrassed. And if I'm being completely honest, I was worried that <i>I</i> would be embarrassed (sad but true). I wondered how to politely suggest that she might not be suited to volleyball. I stewed and worried about this (amongst the rest of things mothers of middle school aged children worry about). One morning, I was doing just this as I was cleaning the house when a clear answer came into my head, telling me that it didn't really matter if she made the team or not.</div>
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I knew that much of what I was worrying about was out of my control, and further, not that important in the whole scheme of things. I was reminded to focus on what I could control- the things that we are doing and teaching in our home, and that as I did these most important things, our children would would be better able to get through the ups and downs that they will face as they grow. Not a promise that they wouldn't have struggles or make poor decisions- just that there are "big things" and "little things" and that I needn't worry about the little things. </div>
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That little morning lesson continues to bless my life. This agency part of parenting is pretty advanced material.</div>
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Anyway. That was a long way of explaining how I felt as we ventured into the uncharted world of volleyball :). </div>
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The first time I picked up Ryenne from open gym last Spring, she got into the car and broke into tears. She was definitely out of her comfort zone. We had a little chat about her choices: 1) she could quit or 2) she could stick it out. She could go for it, knowing that she would feel uncomfortable and have to work twice as hard as everyone else but really, what did she have to lose? She knew her chances of not making the team were pretty high, but we talked that if it didn't pan out, it wasn't the end of the world. </div>
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She received word, via email, on my birthday- welcoming her on the high school freshman volleyball team. I remember she fell to her knees and started crying (the happy kind!) </div>
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So proud of Ryenne. Not for making the team (which was a great thing!), but for pushing herself beyond what was familiar and doing hard things. So many lessons were learned those few months, both by her and her parents! Most importantly, we are learning that our world doesn't hinge on our extra curricular activities! Those will come and go, but what we do in our home is what will really make the difference. (Hopefully we can do enough good to help outweigh all the future therapy issues we create!) Who knows what the next three years of high school will bring, but I'm learning that this girl is made of pretty good stuff. I admire her and her courage. </div>
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So glad I've got these kiddos around to help me figure life out.</div>
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Everyone always asks why Ryenne wears a different colored jersey. She wore red because of her position. (Her dad would say it's because she's an odd ball, which may have a little truth to it :)</div>
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<br />kellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00128212914241770324noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2836675534497335984.post-41906219794391729092015-02-08T16:27:00.000-08:002015-02-08T16:27:01.877-08:00aaaaaaargh!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />kellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00128212914241770324noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2836675534497335984.post-3524079851102782262015-02-08T16:25:00.001-08:002015-02-08T16:25:16.497-08:00pumpkin patch<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Thank goodness our good friends, the Johns, take pity on us every year by letting us pick pumpkins on their farm. I mean, check these pictures out. Now <i>that's</i> a pumpkin patch! Every year I have great pumpkin growing ambitions, and every year we end up back at Greg and Amanda's patch. It's a sad gardener that can't grow a good pumpkin and I'm afraid that's me. But I'm sure I'll keep trying. </div>
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Also, I always think I'll limit the kids (and me, who am I kidding) to one pumpkin each. But every year we end up with 3 or 4 per person. There's just so many cute ones! Little, tiny ones and big fat perfect-for-carving ones. Pumpkins that have the perfect stems, the best shape, the fun colored ones, or the odd, warty ones. I have a love affair with pumpkins. </div>
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They always tell us to pay them in homemade chocolate chip cookies. I think we owe them about a hundred dozen. </div>
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I sure love living in the country.</div>
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<br />kellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00128212914241770324noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2836675534497335984.post-34210654963402580612015-02-08T16:14:00.001-08:002015-02-08T16:14:30.854-08:00the haircut that broke my heart<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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This fall, I let Sam's hair get waaaaaay too long. He could hardly see. This boy haircut thing is tricky! It grows so darn fast! So after much persuading by the girls, and talking over strategy with our favorite stylist, Aunt Kelsey, we decided to go short. (I tried telling Aunt Kelsey that maybe she should teach me how to cut it myself because it's hard to get appointments sometimes, but she didn't think it was such a good idea. Oh, she of little faith.) We decided going short would give us a little bit longer between haircuts.</div>
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We were loving his funny faces once Kels started cutting. She clipped the back super short, and then turned him around to take a peek in the mirror. He made a funny face and smiled as told her, "Put my hairs back on!" </div>
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We had to take a picture of his in-between punk haircut to send to dad. I told him all he needed was skinny jeans and he'd be set! (His dad's worst nightmare: skinny jeans and punk hair!) </div>
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When she finished the top off, I couldn't deny it. He looked pretty darn cute. But. Look how much older he looks with short hair! Not just a month or two- several years older! </div>
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He sure did look cute with that little haircut, but I can't help myself. He's wearing it long again. </div>
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My baby can't grow up quite yet. </div>
<br />kellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00128212914241770324noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2836675534497335984.post-77663575657982082432015-02-08T14:19:00.000-08:002015-02-08T14:19:37.121-08:00family pictures- autumn 2014<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Finally getting around to posting our family pictures, taken back in November! Our good friend Nicole (Nicole Nelson Photography) took them for us- she's the best. Not only super talented but one of our favorite people. I look through these pictures and can't believe how my little ones are not-so-little anymore. All the sudden, Miss Kate looks so grown up! Nearly a teenager! And Sam? Not a baby anymore. </div>
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We're doing our best to enjoy these days. Filled with lots of noise, laughter, and of course, the ups and downs of family life. It is busy, but I wouldn't want to be doing anything else right now. This feeling-like-we can't-keep-up stage of our lives will not last forever. </div>
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That's what I think of every time I look at this family of mine. This is the time to be happy. </div>
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Right here, right now. </div>
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kellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00128212914241770324noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2836675534497335984.post-2099257292599960252015-02-08T13:15:00.002-08:002015-02-08T13:15:43.261-08:00christmas letter 2014<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Merry Christmas! 2014 has come and almost gone and so here we are with our annual this-is-what-we’re-up-to letter. I’m sure you’re sitting on the edge of your seats with excitement, so without further ado. . .<br />
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Ryenne is in the 9th grade and will be turning 15 in April. She surprised us all this year when she traded in her pointe shoes for volleyball shoes. (I know. I had a few “what the heck?” moments over that one too.) It actually turned out to be a great learning experience her and her parents. Ryenne has been working for her Aunt Kelsey- cleaning and making client phone calls. Besides having an awesome boss, she is learning the finer points of actually talking on the phone (rather than texting) which makes her dad and I happy. Speaking of phones, she has proven us wrong once again, and now has use of a cell phone (which we swore wouldn’t happen ‘til she was 16). We may or may not use it as a method of bribery for things such as monthly book reports to mom and dad (not much of a reader), personal progress (she once told us she’s “not really into goals”), and plain ‘ol being nice. Turns out technology isn’t such a bad thing after all J. We keep telling her how she’s gonna thank us one day. Along with her sudden interest in books, she has taken quite the liking to boys. (I noticed that our “We are thankful for. . .” list during November had *BOYS* on it and I’m pretty sure it wasn’t her dad that added that one.) One night she was in and out of my room to check the mirror as she compiled the perfect outfit for the next day. After this had went on for far too long, I mentioned that she might have better luck at school if she spent less time on her outfit and more time on homework. She quickly reassured me that the reason she has such great luck at school is because she spends so much time on her outfit. It all depends on your perspective, I suppose. <br />
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Kate is in 7th grade, and turned twelve this past June, which means she attended girls camp for the first time this past summer (and loved it!) Kate is still playing soccer in the spring and fall is pretty happy about it. She is on the same team as many of her closest friends. Her team was nearly banned from playing in Utah ever again due to the contentious nature of the parents (you know Court and I) but that issue was resolved and thankfully we will not have to move to Idaho for Kate to continue her soccer career. This fall, Kate’s soccer coaches challenged the girls to run a 5k. She was not very excited but decided she was going to do it. She learned a lot about herself in the process and completed her first 5k! My favorite quote of Kate’s for 2014 was during Ryenne, Emmy, and Claire’s ballet performance this past spring. Someone asked Kate if she felt sad that she never did ballet. To which Kate responded with her usual frankness, “NO. Too pink, too frilly, too slow.” That describes Kate perfectly. In fact, we may have had a few tears over family pictures because I asked her to wear a shirt with lace (of all things!) What Kate lacks in frills, she makes up for in books. While we have to bribe Ryenne to read, the other day I punished Kate by taking her book away for a day. Now that I think about it, I think I made Kate wear lace AND forced her to not read all in the same month. There is no end to the torture methods we have in our parenting arsenal. <br />
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Emmy is “into fashion” and likes to wear as much lace as possible. In fact, while Kate was crying about having to wear lace for family pictures, Emmy was crying because “why does Kate get to wear the cute outfit?“ (Whilst Claire was crying because she had to wear tights and she “HATES THOSE TIGHTS!” and the girls were wondering why Sam has to wear that shirt because it doesn’t even match, and why do we have to stand on our front porch for pictures because that’s sooooo embarrassing, etc, etc, etc. . . . Ahhhhh, family pictures. You never know how many swear words are behind a good family picture, that’s what I always say.) So. Back to Emmy. She is in the fourth grade this year and turned ten in August. She loves her teacher this year. She is also turning into a reader and recently found mine and Aunt Jodi’s old Sweet Valley Twins book collection. Emmy gave up ballet for cheer class this year (her dream, not mine). She and her cousin/twin Halle are taking class together and are pretty much in happy cheerleader heaven. Emmy is an amazing babysitter. She still loves, loves, loves to teach and mother everyone and almost always has a school of some sort set up in the house or playhouse for Claire and Sam. It’s awesome because she takes care of everyone’s homework for me. Win/win. <br />
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Claire is six-going-on-turning-mom-into-96. She is full of life and then some. One thing I love about Claire is that she isn’t afraid to talk to anyone. Or say anything. If I take her to the store I know it will take me twice as long because she will have a full conversation with everyone we pass. She has a heart of pure gold but is very honest. While entertaining, all of this does cause it’s share of embarrassing moments. Enough times that I’ve been told I should write a book someday. The Book of Claire. The only problem is I have to wait to write it ‘til all the people who’ve been offended are dead- so don’t hold your breath waiting on that publication. Claire is in kindergarten this year and is quite happy - although it took a while for her to warm up to it on account of her teacher being a little slow to institute recess. Now things have gotten into a groove and she is sufficiently recessed, she’s happy as a lark. Like her sisters, Claire decided to forgo ballet to try soccer. She loved soccer , but has since voiced remorse about quitting ballet, so we’ll see what next year brings. She’ll get to play soccer again in the spring. My favorite moment for soccer this year was when she played goalie for her first game. I was a little worried because they hadn’t even had a practice yet- but when the ball came her way she stopped it like a pro, then picked it up and ran it across the field nearly to the other goalie and tried to kick it in. Kindergarten soccer is the best. <br />
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Sam is three. Can you believe it? Because it kind of makes me want to cry. He is so much fun though, I suppose I’ll let him keep growing up. He was a little slow to start talking but is now quite the conversationalist. We love hearing his cute little voice. We have quite an array of photographs of him in princess dresses for future blackmail purposes, but this kid is ALL boy. People have asked from the start if it was a lot different having a boy, and it all the sudden seems very different! (Just last Sunday, after he was being especially rascal-ish during Sacrament meeting, our old bishop came over and asked us, “I’ve been watching you all meeting and was wondering. . .Now you’re a few years into this boy thing, how’s it going for you?”) Sam is 100% interested in anything with wheels and tools of any kind. The other day he was using a hammer to knock on my bedroom door (why use your hand if you’ve got a hammer?). He has been carrying the vacuum extension around and tells me it is his machine gun so he can kill goblins. Sam is completely infatuated with his dad and LOVES to wrestle with him. Each night when his dad gets home he asks, “How work was today?” He wants details about what equipment was used and for what. . .It makes his dad pretty happy! He was in heaven when he got to ride the tractor with Grandpa Lloyd a few times this summer and is always thrilled if he gets to help Grandpa Monty with lamb chores. This fall, since the girls have started school, he has started calling Grandpa Croney each morning. He’ll ask, “Where you are?” It’s a good day if he gets to ride along with Grandpa to get a trailer or any other errand. (Although he did tell me that when he goes to work he and Grandpa and Uncle Ronnie drink beer at the shop, so I’m a little worried about this new job of his! Grandpa insists that it‘s ROOTbeer!)<br />
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The older three girls showed lambs at the county and state fair this year. (Ryenne told us she was going to show a chicken next year but we vetoed that.) This summer we finally went out on a limb and bought a boat (I guess Courtney got tired of my beggingJ). Actually, we realized that Ryenne only has a few summers left at home, so we better start doing some of those fun things we’ve been talking about doing “one of these days”. We had so much fun! The night we brought it home, Court and I were in the house and came out to find all of the kids in the boat, dancing in the dark. And the first time we put it in the water, Ryenne started giggling out loud. You could say they are pretty happy boaters! The kids tell us that all we ever do is “slave work” them, so I guess we have to let ‘em have some time off every now and again.<br />
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Well, it looks like I have shared all the juicy tidbits that I can think of. As you can see, our lives are filled with glamour and intrigue. Court and I stay pretty busy, what with continually updating our “Meanest Parents of the Year” resumes and all. A week or so ago, we went up into the mountains on our annual Black Friday Christmas Tree shopping event. Usually most of the Croney cousins come along, but this year it was just our family and Grandma and Grandpa. As we were heading home, I announced that I thought it had been a really fun day. Ryenne replied with a tone of suprise, “Yeah, it was actually. And I thought it was going to super boring- I‘m not gonna lie.” So, perhaps we need to change our resume to “Meanest and Most Boring. ..” <br />
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We love this time of year and the excitement it brings. We love the letters to Santa, family traditions, beautiful lights, and of course, the chocolate! There is nothing better than experiencing Christmas through the eyes of small children. However, amidst all the sparkles and glitter, we are trying to remember that Christmas is more than “packages, boxes, and bags“. Christmas will come with or without all the ribbons and tags. While it is so easy to get caught up in the “have-to’s” of our Christmas list, we hope to remember that the only must-have this Christmas season is the Savior. We love and honor Him and are thankful for the gift that His life is. It is our hope that we can think about Him more, and try to be a little bit more like Jesus this Christmas season and throughout the next year. We love all of you and wish you a very Merry Christmas and a wonderful 2015.<br />
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<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Love The Wood Family<br />
<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Courtney, Kelly, Ryenne, Kate, Emmy, Claire, and Samuel<br />
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kellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00128212914241770324noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2836675534497335984.post-32021897442875777542014-10-05T20:19:00.000-07:002014-10-05T20:19:04.446-07:00right nowWe're already one month into school. October! The kids are planning Halloween costumes (which change by the day) and I've got a list of to-do items that include cleaning out the garden and a trip to the pumpkin patch. It's that time of year. <br />
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I feel a little bad at how sporadic I've gotten about writing down our little moments. The funny and not-so-funny little bits that make our life go round. I need to get back into the swing of things because as always, there are so many of those little bits that I won't remember if I don't write them here. <br />
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I like our right now.<br />
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Like I said, school is in full swing and I think everyone if fairly happy about it. Ryenne is in 9th grade. She calls herself a freshman but I like to think of her as a middle-school-girl still. Makes her sound a little younger, don't you think? She is trying new things, making new friends, and learning so much. It seems 9th grade is already a real stretching year for her. For the first time since kindergarten, she is not doing ballet. Last spring she decided she wanted to try out for the high school volleyball team. I have to admit I was a little "what the heck?" about it, but after a lot of hard work, she made the team and it's been a great thing! So many lessons being learned. She has totally gone out of her comfort zone to try something new and I am so proud of her. I don't think I would have had the guts to do the same thing, and am so glad we trusted her to follow her heart. I am continually amazed (and humbled) at the lessons my kids teach me. They are a good bunch. Ryenne is working for Aunt Kelsey, so between volleyball, work, homework, and fun- we don't see her much. It all the sudden feels like we have a high school girl on our hands! She has always been my one who needs her down time, and so her busy schedule has been a little overwhelming to her. But she is learning she can do this and is finding ways to manage her time better. Once again, lots of lessons being learned!<br />
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Kate is in 7th grade this year! She was a little bit sad after her first week, because she didn't know many people in her classes, but I kept telling her it would be great chance to meet new people. I think she's finally beginning to believe me! She has a great little group of friends that I feel so thankful for. They are really such nice, good girls. She is playing soccer again, and her team is doing awesome! They've really come along as a team, and have gone from losing most games to winning most of them! It's fun to see their hard work pay off. This year their coaches challenged them to run a 5k race. This was really hard for Kate to do, but last week they held a team 5k and she finished! I was so proud of her. I even ran it with her! (First time running in 4 years!) We worked a lot on positive thinking and replacing negative thought with happy ones, and she really pushed through. She can do hard things! Kate is loving Young Women's and is working hard at her personal progress. She loves the structure of setting goals in this way and even takes it to school to work on the bus! (Her older sister? Not so much :) <br />
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Emmy is in 4th grade, and has one of our favorite teachers this year. Plus her best friend in her class?. . .She couldn't have been happier! She loves school and is a bit of a four-square fanatic right now! She can often be found trying to round up her siblings for a game, and has been wishing she had her own ball. She got a little award in school the other day for being a good problem solver and being able to turn "girl drama into true friendship". That made me smile. Like her big sister, Emmy is not in ballet right now either. After lots and lots of begging, she and her cousin Halle are enrolled in a cheer class. She is thrilled to pieces! (After sitting by her at Ryenne's game yesterday, I am sure she was born to be a cheerleader! She was bundle of positive energy!) She is excited to be learning tumbling and is determined to master her back handspring by Christmas. I've been thinking lately that I am so thankful we waited to send Emmy to school a year. It took a few years for me to be sure we did the right thing, but now I can see that it was a great choice for her. <br />
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Miss Claire is in kindergarten this year. I don't think the verdict is in yet as to whether she is a fan or not. To my surprise, she hasn't been as enthusiastic as I thought she'd be. I can't tell what that girl thinks sometimes! She loved the unit on pachyderms, but has been a little annoyed that she has to go "every day?!!!!" Yesterday we had our first "sick day" but I think she found that staying in bed all day wasn't all that exciting either. The other day I was helping her pick out some clothes and she told me we needed to get in "the box" (of hand-me-downs) and find some cuter clothes. Seems the girl she wants to be friends with only likes to play with the girls who wear "really cute clothes with lots of colors". I guess her wardrobe needs a little work. It's a hard knock life around here for sure. Her and Sam are getting to be quite the little buddies and I'm glad they have each other. Claire decided to try soccer this year! No ballet for Claire this year either! Soccer was only 4 weeks and she was a big fan. The first game she played goalie for a few minutes, and we laughed when she stopped the ball and then picked it up and ran almost all the way to the opposite goal to make her kick. Kindergarten soccer is the best! Claire also learned to ride her bike last week without training wheels! She was so happy! Dad was out of town so of course we had to send a video. He had been helping her but they hadn't had much success, so I was taken back when she took me outside and showed me she could do it. My favorite part was when she told me that Emmy (our resident teacher. . .for reals) had helped her by saying that Jesus is "up there" (in heaven) and Satan is "down there" (pointing to the ground) and so you want to stay up straight so you don't fall down like Satan. Turns out that little lesson did the trick. Whatever works, I guess.<br />
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Sam is pretty much a favorite around here. He has a way of turning even the worst, rough-day-at-school frowns upside down. The girls adore him. He has started talking so much, and it is so fun to hear his little voice. My favorite is when you ask him something, he often shrugs his shoulders and says "sure". He makes my heart is so happy when he comes to me, lays his head on me and says "I love you too." The other morning he was in our room bright and early. Court and I were having a hard time waking up and we laughed when he hit the Siri button on Courtney's phone. When Siri asked if she could help him, he said, "Yeah, I can't find find my treats." He is happiest when he is with his dad, and loves wrestling with him. He is loving trucks, tractors, and anything with wheels. He has been lucky enough to go ride the tractor with Grandpa Lloyd a few times and loves that! Grandpa was laughing one day when he put a bucket in the tractor for Sam to ride in. Sam must have fallen asleep and suddenly fell off the bucket! Grandpa got a good laugh about that. He also loves going with Grandpa Bop wherever he can. He calls him first thing most mornings to see if he can ride in his "fast car" or go on a "three-wheeler ride". Today he is riding in his truck while they haul trailers. Of course, he is super happy when he gets to do chores with Grandpa Jones as often as we are there. Grandpa has learned that Sam has figured out how to unlatch the gates and run the lamb scale, so he has to be on his toes!<br />
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This is such a busy time of life, but a good one. We have been trying the last few years to really cut out the extras, and I like where we are at right now. It seems like our lives are plenty busy, but we are trying to be much more prayerful and purposeful in what we let into our lives. A constant effort for sure. <br />
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It seems strange to have Ryenne embarking on high school and all of the fun craziness that brings to our life, and still have little ones at home to cuddle with and make us smile with the cute little things they say. I'm so glad to have each of them. As crazy as it sounds, I've even been so thankful lately for how often they bring me to my knees in prayer. As they grow older and more of their lives seem out of my control, I am realizing how dependent I am on Heavenly Father to guide them and take care of their needs. I am learning that, to my surprise (!), I often don't <i>really</i> know what they need. I can feel promptings that something is or isn't right, but my solution isn't always what is right for them. I am learning to pray everyday that He will give them experiences to prepare them and make them into who He wants them to be. I guess I am learning to let go of the reins a little. Courtney and I are in a partnership with God, and it has never seemed so vital that I do my part. It is a process of letting go and trusting him- giving up what I want for what He knows is best. It is changing me and I am so thankful for this process, as hard as it is. <br />
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Like I said, so many lessons. So thankful I'm learning them with this crew.<br />
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<br />kellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00128212914241770324noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2836675534497335984.post-68117874638964205262014-09-04T19:17:00.005-07:002014-09-04T19:17:50.447-07:00trip to the zoo<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Just after school got out, the kids and I decided to take a trip to the zoo. Claire and Sam hadn't been before, and I thought they would love seeing all the animals. We chose a day that I had a doctor appointment scheduled in Salt Lake. I was a little worried about all of the kids hanging out in the waiting room for my hour long appointment, but they did fantastic! Of course, Claire had made fast friends with everyone in the office by that time and even had one lady in tears telling me what a joy she was and how much the kids had cheered her up! (We always make friends when Claire is with us!) Waiting times don't always go so smoothly, so I was especially appreciative that this one had.</div>
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To celebrate, we went to eat at City Creek. It was a fun little lunch date!</div>
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We met the Stosich cousins at the zoo. What a crew! It was a hot, busy day, and we were pretty disappointed that most of the exhibits seemed to be empty. I'm not sure where all the animals went! (That seems to be our luck with the zoo!) I was bummed, because Sam had been talking for days about seeing the lions, and wouldn't you know! We didn't see even one lion! Emmy had just finished a report on giraffes, so I thought it would be fun for her to see one up close. No giraffes either! </div>
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So here's the real story of our trip to the zoo. Our day had a great start, but by the end of the afternoon, we were all a little overheated, bored (there was nothing to see so the kids were running wild), and cranky. The kids were all campaigning for sleepovers with their cousins (which was impossible that week), Kate lost a twenty dollar bill from her pocket that we never did find, and Claire kept running away and hiding because she was mad we couldn't go swimming at Aunt Jodi's house. We left the zoo with a lot of tired, grouchy kids! <br />
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Oh well, we gave it a good shot!<br />
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I had to laugh (okay, maybe it was funny a few days later :) when I asked Claire if she'd had fun.. She responded, "No. All day it was 'Claire do this. Claire do that. You can't go there! You can't go here!' It wore me out!"<br />
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Me too, Claire. Me too.kellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00128212914241770324noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2836675534497335984.post-9807542368550990152014-09-03T19:18:00.002-07:002014-09-03T19:18:37.835-07:00<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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We laughed one night at my moms when Sam hooked this suitcase onto the little car and rode around. Such a Sam thing to do. He reminds me of his dad, always thinking of how to make things work more efficiently.</div>
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See? Always being efficient.</div>
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Sam loves me, but he <i>looooooves</i> his daddy.</div>
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One weekend at the first of summer, Sam got tonsillitis and the two of us had to stay home while the rest of the crew went to a cousin outing for the weekend. He was pretty lonely. Saturday night I was busy doing something and noticed he had gone missing. After a little panicked searching, I found him out playing on dads "mini-tractor". He was happy as could be. I should have looked there first. :)</div>
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At long last, a sandpile!</div>
<br />kellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00128212914241770324noreply@blogger.com0