MILLER'S

Chicago weekend

2011-05-18T11:05:00.000-05:00

All I can say is WOW - what a weekend that was! We had such a fun time getting away and being around our great friends! We were very lucky to have the best hosts in the world - Jim and Andy! They were so kind to us and made us feel right at home in their house! I especially enjoyed their new addition - Buster! I really loved Chicago - it sure is a beautiful city with so much to see and do! We started off our trip with a Cubs vs. Giants game. We splurged and got some really great seats! The Cubs are Sarah and Jason's favorite team with the Giants beings Sam's. The Giants got beat but that was okay because Sarah got to listen to the song the Cubs play after they win a game. She was so excited!!

After the game we went out to a nice dinner with our hosts and had a great time! Then on Saturday we set out early for some sightseeing. The weather was not cooperating at all for us so we were unable to go to the top of the Sears Tower - who wants to pay $17 to see clouds?? We all were a bit bummed about that but we treaked on to see the Millennium Park and the Bean! Then we did some shopping on Michigan Ave and ended with a fantastic lunch at Geradinos's with a great big deep dish pizza!!! Yumm is all I say for that! I tried not to eat a whole bunch knowing I would be running the next day, but I could not help it and ate 2 1/2 pieces!!! We also braved the long line to get into the Shedd Aquarium - which ended up being an hour wait in the horrific wind and rain. Then on Sunday we woke up early for the run to the same nasty weather. Since we flew all the way there and prepared many weeks for this run - we ran in it anyways. I would have to say we all were totally crazy! At times I was running sideways or would feel myself being moved by the wind - I even lost my hat 2 times to the wind. All I can say is that I am glad I finished and 4 minutes faster than my last half - so hopefully with good weather on my next one I will be able to accomplish my goal of finishing in 2:10. I am so glad we were able to go on this trip and run in the race. I had such a fun time with some great memories I will never forget! We all can’t wait to go back next year!

Fun weekend ahead

2011-05-12T13:38:00.000-05:00

So tomorrow Sam and I get to leave town for a few days!! I am so excited, yet nervous as well! We are heading to Chicago and I have yet to get packed! I am dragging my feet - not sure why?? But tomorrow we have great seats for a Cubs vs. Giants game!!! I am most excited about that! Then Saturday we get to do lots of sight seeing and Sunday will be the day I have been preparing for for the last 2 months!! My friend Sarah and I are running in a half marathon. See last year this was her first half and I told her I will run with you next year. Well she held me to it and here it is a year later and we are going!!! I am so nervous and really want to do well. I always seem to talk my self out of feeling prepared before a race, but I know deep down that I have really trained good and will do great! All I ask for is to cross the finish line and beat my time from the last one! So off to packing and cleaning the house! I will post lots of pictures Monday - hopefully I will be smiling and happy with the results!!!

Bunny Run

2011-04-24T18:29:00.000-05:00

Saturday my friend Sarah and I pulled off a run in our town. We are in a group called New Horizons, which is a group of women who do different things to better the community. Well Sarah and I thought putting on a run in Rock Port would be a great fundraiser. There has never been one in our town, so we were not sure how it would turn out. I knew a few ladies who started training and getting excited for it, but had no idea we would have so many people sign up! Much to our surprise, it did even better than expected! We put alot of work into getting it all together and yesterday was our day! It started out early with all the setting up and ended about 11 when we took it all down! We had over 100 people sign up. There was a 5k, 10k and a 1 mile children's run and the Easter Bunny even participated! Ethan and Hannah did the 5k (3.1 miles) and Sam ran the 10k (6.2 miles). Ethan ran it in 28:03 - faster than I can and Hannah completed it in 35:21 - I am so proud of them and can not believe their drive to take on so much and do well at it! Ethan than went on to run the children's 1 mile run and placed 3rd!

It was so amazing to see so many people out there enjoying themselves. The best part was the people who were so excited they had completed it and want to do more races! I can still remeber the same feeling when I came across my first finish line. This year on July 4th I will cross the same finish line that started it all for me and hopefully beat my time last year, by a lot!! In the end we raised alot of funds for our scholarship program! Mission accomplished!!

Ethan's first

2011-04-14T09:20:00.000-05:00

Last weekend was the opening for youth turkey hungting. Ethan was very lucky to have won a guided hunt from a local guy here in town. Sam tagged along with Ethan to hopefully see how it is done so he can take Ethan out when the season opens for everyone. We got Ethan his first shotgun a couple months ago and he was able to use it for the first time. Sam said they both had a good time and I guess I did too with having to cook the bird :) - I am not one for cooking things that do not come from the store - but I managed and it was very tasty!! The boys are already planning a trip out as soon as they can!

I did it!

2011-04-03T12:47:00.000-05:00

I have been feeling pretty poopy lately in the running deparment. I am training for a half that is coming up in May, but not feeling real confident about it. I have had to do a lot of my long runs on the treadmill - it is much harder for me mentally to be outside then on the treadmill where the ground moves beneath me :) - That being said - I needed to run a good race yesterday - to remind me that I CAN do this!! I have had a goal of completing a 10k in under an hour. Last year my first race ever was 1:09 - then the 3 more to follow were 1:06 and 2 at 1:04 - This run was the first of the year and I wanted to see what I could do. Well it was a great run for me as I can in at 59:45 - the last mile I ran as hard as I could and it paid off! My friend Sarah finished in 51:03 and that was her personal best as well! Another friend of mine, Jamie came too and wanted to finish under an hour as well - She did in 58:33 and this was Jodee's first race! She was ready to go and wanted to come in under an hour as well! To her shock at her abilities she finished in 56:16!!! She blew us all away!!! I think she is hooked now and has a race scheduled for us next week!! It was a great weekend that went well for all of us! I can not wait to see what else I can accomplish in the next few months!!

Its starting again!

2011-03-31T22:27:00.000-05:00

This Saturday is the start to a new season! Friends of ours and Sam and I are headed down to K City bright and early to run in a 10k! I am excited and nervous to see how we all do! This is just the start to a new running season. I just wish the weather would cooperate enough that I could get outside to run more, but for now the treadmill has been my friend. I am training for another half that is coming up May 15th.

We are headed to Chicago for this one with Sam and our good friends Sarah and Jason. While we are there for a quick weekend we get to watch a Cubs v. Giants game!! I think Sam is more excited about that then the run! I am looking forward to a weekend getaway and a chance to do better than the last half I ran!

Half Marathon

2010-12-11T22:20:00.000-06:00

Alot has happened in the last few months! So I have alot to catch up on! The first main event was I completed my first half marathon!! I was not sure I could do this and had little faith when I first got the hair brained idea! I knew the weather would be turing for cold shortly and if I was going to do it I needed to make the commitment and go for it! That is what I did! I had run in 5 10ks during the summer and needed another challenge - so the logical next step was a half. I had 6 weeks to prepare for an upcoming one. My good friend Sarah said she would do as well - so now I had to follow through!! So on Novemeber 13th, Sarah, I and our husbands made a weekend out of it! We stayed the night in Kansas City and ran the race the following morning. It was a whopping 27 degrees with 18mph winds. So needless to say the weather was awful! But even with the weather and the course being rather hilly - I completed it!! I ran the whole way - did slow down a lot towards the end, but I wanted to finish before 2:30 and I did!! I came in at 2:26! I was happy to just get my feet across that finish line. Now I am taking it easy and will prepare for another half in Chicago in this coming May! Who knows maybe a full marathon will happend at some time!

Apple Jack Run

2010-09-19T10:32:00.000-05:00

Yes, we did another run this weekend! This one was in Nebraska City and was 5 miles. It was a rather hilly course but not nearly as bad as the one a few weeks ago. I am so glad I did the one in Essex because now every one from now on will seem easy! After Sam and I did our run the kids participated in a 1 mile run. Ethan and Hannah took off and I hung back and ran with Reed. He would get distracted and pick up sticks and veer off course, but we did come across the finish line! It was a great day and a fun way to spend with the family!

Essex and the three day weekend

2010-09-07T17:34:00.001-05:00

The family and I had a great 3 day weekend. Saturday was spent catching up on homework and having some fun with the kids! We took them to the Fun Plex where we rode go carts, played in the jungle gym thing and ate ice cream! The best part was the go carts! Reed rode with Sam and I - after riding with me he tells Sam "mom is the worst driver ever!" - well gee thanks Reed! On Monday Sam and I ran in another race. I guess it must be the time of year because there seems to be alot around here lately. This one was in Essex Iowa and was a spur of the moment type thing. Sam and I checked out the route on Saturday - much to my dismay it was full of hills! This is not something I have worked on yet - but since I was already signed up and my good friend from town was doing it as well - there was no backing out! Sam is still nursing his ankle so he did the 2 mile along with my good friend Jodee (this was her first race). Sarah and I did the 10k. Once we started the race I was about 1 mile into it and wanted to give up so badly. It was so windy and I knew the large hills were coming up. Mile 2 came and I was REALLY wanting to give up but by now the hills were right there and there was no turning back. I went for it and made it through all 8 hills, never walked them one and let the wind carry me up the hills! All in all it worked out - I got my personal best time of 1:04 and finished - that was all that mattered! My friend Sarah finished in 52:33 (she's so fast and is my inspiration in all this!) - Sam did 2 miles in 18:35 and took first in his age group - Jodee (first race) took 2nd in her age group with a time of 18:19 - (she beat Sam). I am so proud of her - I hope she comes again with us! - After the race we all came home and crashed for the rest of the day! It was a great weekend!

Falls City Run

2010-08-31T08:17:00.000-05:00

On Saturday Sam and I and some great friends from town ran in a race in Falls City, NE. My sister was going to come down and run the 10k with me but due to my great uncle not feeling well she stayed home to care for him. I was bummed to not have a buddy so I opted to do the 5k with Sam instead. Sam has been nursing a hurt ankle so he did not want to do the 10k either :( Long story short I debated all night and even the morning of if I should just do the 10k - I needed to get a long run in anyways so why not - when the race started I decided to do the 5k and just give it my all. I ended up running the fastest I ever had (29:22) and to top it all off I came in 3rd in my age group! I was shocked when they called my name for a medal! So I am glad that I did the 5k and had the opportunity to push myself! My friend Sarah did the 10k and came in second overall! She is amazing and has been my inspiration all along! It was a great way to start my weekend!

School's Back in Session

2010-08-23T16:06:00.000-05:00

On Wednesday started the back to school routine! Reed is in all day preschool :( , Hannah is in 5th grade and Ethan is in 6th. We are all excited about this year! All three of the kids have great teachers and we could not be happier! It does make me sad that Reed is in school until 2:30 - It makes for a quiet day with me and Claire! I do have to say the house has been clean and the laundry has been done with few interuptions! This Monday starts a new semester for Sam and I, so the craziness will begin. I love fall and am looking forward to the great weather!

Royal Gorge and Seven Falls

2010-08-05T10:04:00.000-05:00

We had an extra day in Colorado after the wedding. We spent it sight seeing at the Royal Gorge walking the crazy tall suspension bridge, taking the gondala across the gorge and riding the incline train to the bottom. It was such a beautiful place! After we explored all that we went to Seven Falls where we climbed some ridiculos 300 steps to the top of the water fall. We had a wonderful day and loved spending it with each other!

Matt's wedding

2010-08-04T22:59:00.000-05:00

Sam and I were able to sneak away for a few days to Colorado! Sam was in his friends wedding and it just happened to be our anniversary weekend so we made a trip out of it with NO kids! Yep - that's right - we managed to get away without any of them and it was GREAT! We started out by bringing a hitchhiker back to the hotel - well not really a hitch hiker! She was a friend of the bride and groom who needed a ride from the airport to the hotel (2 hours away). Sam and I had so much fun talking with her! What a fun way to start the trip! Then the next day Sam did groomsman stuff in the morning - so I had a day to myself - well until 3pm. I went for a nice run around Pueblo, then was able to take the longest shower with no interruptions! No kids banging on the door or trying to get in! I even dried my hair! I then went to Subway and brought a sandwich back to the hotel where I watched tv and ate in silence! After all that I took a nap! I was so lazy and it felt great!

That night we had the rehearsal and a wonderful dinner at a great pizza place! We visited with the Jansson family - which was the greatest as well as Sam's friends that we have not seen for years! The next day was the wedding and boy was it fun! The party went on until midnight! It was long day but what a beautiful day it was! The groom - Matt was in our wedding 13 years ago - so it was great to return the favor for him and his beautiful wife!

Greased Pig Contest

2010-07-22T10:04:00.000-05:00

A group that I belong to (New Horizons) puts on a greased pig contest every year. It is a huge hit as everyone comes out to watch the young kids catch the greased pig! This year I am particulary proud that my little Reed won in his age group. He was the only kid to touch the pig - the others just stood and watched as Reed drug the poor pig to the bucket ! He did it in 2:12 and really worked hard! Ethan and Hannah had a blast too! The little pigs were getting hot and tired and we knew the older kids would be able to catch them too easily - so we got out the big guy! The kids had to pull the ribbon off his tail! This was the funniest thing to watch as they chased this huge pig around! Even though it was sooooo HOT out we managed to have a great time!!

10k Freedom Run

2010-07-03T10:50:00.000-05:00

Sam and I before the race

(it was a bit early and I look pretty tired - I'm not used to getting up at 5:30!)

(Tisha, Terri, Sarah and Me)

There were 4 of us girls from Rock Port that did the race. We have all been motivating each other up to this day! It was great to be there with such wonderful friends!

Here is me coming close the finish line - you can see Sam cheering me on!

me crossing the finish line!

Sam crossing the finish line!

We had a great day! I was so nervous for this day to come and even had a hard time sleeping the night before. It ended up being a great day and we crossed the finish line! That is all I wanted to do and I did it!! My time was 1:08 and Sam finished 1:04 - not bad for 6.2 miles and being way overweight only 4 months ago! I am so proud of Sam and I both for being able to do this. I would never had thought I could run one mile, let alone 6!

This was a great start to the weekend!

Last day of Preschool

2010-05-25T16:49:00.000-05:00

Today was a sad day :( It was Reed's last day of preschool. Well he goes again next year but this is the last day with his 2 favorite teachers! Ms. Williams and Mrs. Cofer were the sweetest, most patient teachers I could have asked for! They were wonderful with Reed. They did not seem to care that he dressed himself or that his pants were on inside out today (I did not even notice this morning), or that he hugs and kisses them all the time. I am going to miss them next year!! Ms. Williams took a 1st grade teaching position so hofefully Reed will have her again in a few years!! I cant thank them enough for all the hard work they put into the class. They truely are a blessing to our school!

Tina Turner

2010-05-25T16:39:00.000-05:00

In 4th grade they put on a Wax Museum display for the school and community to see. Hannah picked Tina Turner. All the people in the wax museum either were born or grew up in Missouri. When people come to the museum they push the button on the table and the person tells a speech about themselves. Hannah was great and had fun dressing up for it!

The Circus

2010-05-25T16:30:00.000-05:00

The Circus came to town a few weekends ago. The kids got to go to the park during school and watch the tent go up as well as see the 2 tigers and lion. The circus was alot of fun and the kids had a blast!

Freedom Run

2010-05-03T13:20:00.000-05:00

I have officially done it!

I signed up for the Brownville, NE Freedom Run 10K - I never would have thought I would willingly commit and pay to run in a race! Since February I have taken up the hobby of running. I guess you can say I have the runners bug and I love it! On July 3rd I will run in my first race - I don't care to win I would just like to cross the finish line! So far I have ran 4.25 miles - I have 2 months to work my way up to a comfortable 6 miles. Hopefully it happens! I also have Sam convinced to run as well - he would like to do the 5k but I will work on changing his mind so we can run together!

Spring is here!

2010-05-03T12:09:00.000-05:00

Spring is here and it's time to mow the lawn and play outside! I love this time of year - I wish the weather could stay forever!

Quick Trip to Texas

2010-05-03T12:00:00.000-05:00

Hannah, Claire and I took a quick trip to see my mom, sister and nieces and nephews. I also went to an embroidery conference while there. I would have to say that I had more fun visiting my family than the conference. I wish I could have stayed longer! We are already planning another trip for the summer! I did not take my camera because I did not want one more thing to lug around on the airplane. The other reason is we recently got a new camera and I don't think Sam really trusted me to take it! So that being said I did not get any pictures of us in Texas, but we did get a few before we left! Poor Hannah, she is so sensitive - she cried when we left home because she missed her dad, then she cried on the way home from Texas because she misses grandma, auntie toto and the cousins!! She just cant win either way!!

All Hannah and I could do was laugh as we wondered whether Claire would sit on the plane or not! She was rather antsy before we left - We were a bit worried that the flight would be awful! To our disbelief Claire was great and actually took naps on the plane! We could not have asked for her to be better! Hannah was also a huge help to me! I don't know if I could have done it with out her! It sure was nice to have a few extra hands while tromping through the airport!

Reed's first game

2010-04-22T20:18:00.001-05:00

Tonight was Reed first soccer game!

He was the kid picking grass on the field!

Reed's preschool teacher Ms. Williams is his coach - we could not ask for anyone better! She has so much patience with the kids!

Basketball for Hannah

2010-04-21T11:00:00.000-05:00

Hannah just finished up a great season of 4th grade basketball. She had 2 great coaches that made it alot of fun! I think she may like basketball for a while! I know she did not get her skills from me!

Amazing Race Date

2010-04-21T09:43:00.001-05:00

Our ladies group "New Horizons" had a couples activity this past weekend. It was done "Amazing Race" style with each stop being put on by the husbands. They sure had fun making us do embarrassing tasks! It was a great time and spent with great people!

Easter

2010-04-20T23:02:00.000-05:00

Ok - I have not blogged in way too long - so all you are getting is pictures!

The Spirit of Christmas in Rock Port!

2009-12-29T20:25:00.000-06:00

We had an awful snow blizzard come through on Christmas Eve and continue for 2 days. We have 2 motels in the area and that is it. When the highway was shut down those 2 motels filled up quickly leaving many stranded motorists. Click here to see the article written about what our little town did for those stranded motorists! It brings tears to my eyes just thinking about how lucky I am to have ended up in this little town!

Hannah’s 10th Birthday

2009-12-28T10:43:00.002-06:00

Our sweet Hannah turned 10 on November 13^th. I have been so behind in my blogging that I know I am a little late in posting this! We celebrated her birthday at the Bowling alley with all her friends from school! We had 30 kids there! It was crazy and so much fun! After bowling Hannah had her 2 best friends Ally and Sophia spend the night!

Claire’s Birthday

2009-12-28T10:15:00.002-06:00

I cannot believe my baby is 1! She is growing up so fast.

It makes me sad to think of her getting older! We had a little party with Grandma and Granddaddy and Great Grandma and Grandpa Jones.

She loved every minute of all the attention as well as her new toys!

She really enjoyed her cake!

Snow, Snow, Snow

2009-12-28T09:27:00.005-06:00

There is snow everywhere! We got a nice snow blizzard on Christmas eve that dumped alot of snow, on top of old snow that we had from a previous storm. Then it continued to snow for a few days! Our driveway was just covered, which left us snowed in! Our Christmas was not as relaxing as we had hoped! We all had to help shovel, which took a very long time! It seemed very overwelming at times, but we did get it done. Sam was able to borrow a snow blower which was very nice! I think we may have to invest in one if this snow keeps up! We are very lucky to have family close so we did not have to go far for our wonderful Christmas dinner!

Christmas is coming soon!

2009-12-23T01:40:00.002-06:00

I can not believe it is this time of year again! I love Christmas time so much, but I would love it even more if I could have all my family together! Just one year - please?? Maybe I need to send Santa my wish list! If only it were that simple!

We have had so much going on in the last month that I have not blogged at all! I will have a bunch of new post coming in the next few days! Today though as I sit at my computer, way to late at night (or early in the morning), listening to the humming of my embroidery machine, I am feeling so overwhelmed with love! (Or maybe deliriousness since it is 1:30am!!) As I sat here typing Reed came running down stairs, calling for Momma! I just love to hear his sweet little voice and especially when I did not get the chance to tell him good night! I made a quick trip to Walmart and when I returned Reed was sound asleep on the couch. When Reed found me he said," Mom I just want to give you some cuddles." That is all I need! I am so happy that my children love me, even when I feel like a horrible mom, who makes them do chores and help out way more then they should have too.

See today was a hectic day, with lots of running around and orders being worked on that I relied on the Ethan and Hannah alot to help out. They have been such a huge help and I hope I tell them enough - THANKYOU!

Sam and I are so fortunate to have 4 beautiful children. I just adore each and everyone of them and their sweet spirits that they bring to our home. I can not wait to see their excitement on Christmas morning! Well I am off to bed for the night! I will return tomorrow with more posts on what is happening in our little home!

Winner - Really??

2009-11-20T15:59:00.003-06:00

I never win anything - That is until now!! I won a cute shirt from InitiallyYours and I owe it all to Kelly. I have come to really enjoy reading Kelly and her blog. Go check her out - she just went on a Compassion trip to El Salvador to help children. I would love to do that some day! Do you think I could talk Sam into it? I hope you all have a great Thanksgiving! I am off to clean my house and get ready for my company!! Yep - that is right - Becky, Chad and the 6 kiddos are heading down my way tomorrow! We are going to have a Thanksgiving Dinner on Sunday - a little early but that is okay! We are so excited to have them and I will sure to post lots of pictures!

Fall Pictures

2009-10-26T14:21:00.004-05:00

On Sunday we went and had fun taking pictures. I love this time of year. Here the leaves are so pretty, we just had to get out and take pictures.

Reed is 4

2009-10-26T14:09:00.004-05:00

I can not believe it - but Reed has turned 4. Where has the time gone. He is growing up so fast! I just love his sweet little face. Reed keeps this family on our toes. He sure makes us laugh with all the off the wall comments and actions. I took cupcakes to his preschool. He requested Deigo cupcakes so I made them. They were a little weird looking, but he liked them! Then we had cake and presents for him on Tuesday. Saturday we had a birthday party at our house. The pinata was the hit of the party! Later on that evening we went to McDonalds for ice cream with Grandaddy, Grandma and Grandpa and Grandma Jones. Reed felt like a King that day.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY REED!

Old Fashioned Saturday Night

2009-09-30T14:04:00.004-05:00

This year Sam and I did not go (homework :( ) - We did however let Ethan and Hannah go with a few friends. Grandaddy and Grandma were out and about and snapped some photos for us. The kids had a great time and felt so grown up being there by themselves. (For those of you who don't live here - we live on Main Street - which is where the festival takes place!) - They came home every so often to rest or get a quick bite to eat, then they were off for more fun. They had our cell phone and had to check in every hour. They did great with their freedom!! They both are growing up so much!!

Hannah talked Grandad into a pillow fight - we all see who was victorious!! Way to go Hannah!

Ethan entered a Cup Cake eating contest and place 2nd!

First day of Preschool

2009-08-19T22:12:00.003-05:00

So today was the first day of 5th grade for Ethan, 4th for Hannah and Preschool for Reed! Ethan and Hannah were more excited about the breakfeast that was being served at school that they ran off before I could get their pictures! Reed on the other hand was so excited we just had to get some pictures!

The Lake and Great Friends!

2009-08-14T00:13:00.009-05:00

We have the best neighbors in the world. The Minter family who lives next door to us - are the greatest friends we could ask for! We were so lucky to of been able to go with them on a trip to the Lake house! Oh man - where do I begin!! First off they were such troppers for putting up with Sam let alone all 4 of the kids!! On the start to our trip - which is a 5 hour drive - Reed is crying " i dont want to go to the crocodile lake - I hate the lake - I will not go swimming" so on and so on! We had to get mad at him and tell him to stop talking! Hummm - i wonder where he gets that from?? Anyways we arrive there in the early afternoon to be greated by the Minter Boys! That started the trip off great! Ethan and Hannah were wisked away by the boys on the jet ski and "Sting Ray" We did not see them until dark time!

Mitchell is old enough to drive the jet ski now so that took a lot of pressure off of Jodee! The last time we went Jodee was the driver on the jet ski - Some how I ended up being the spotter - that means I sit backwards on the jet ski - hold on as tight as you can and watch for kids flying off so i can tell her to go back and get them! Well Mrs. Jodee was not the gentelest drivers! So the spotter (me) fell off a few times! So with Mithchell driving now Jodee does not have to and that means no SPOTTING for me!! YEAHHH!!

Anyways - it took a little bit for Reed to warm up to the idea of going down the steps to the dock. Before we knew it he was down there! Not much longer and he was in the water!

After that he loved it and that was all he wanted to do! He even went out on the tube with the kids! He managed to stay on - thank goodness or he would of freaked out!! Sam took him out on a few jet ski rides too! He really liked that! Claire on the other hand ended up sitting with me or in the walker that was tied to a post (so she would not roll into the water)

she enjoyed all the commotion!!

Shawn took us out on a nice boat trip that we all enjoyed!

Sam took me for a few rides on the jet ski too - I held on to him pretty tight for fear of falling off (see above)

Towards the end of our trip I did ask for Sam to show me how to drive the jet ski. It was not as scary as I thought! Next year I just may be the driver and Jodee the spotter (Pay back!!!)! We packed up on Sunday and headed home! For the first 20 minutes Reed cried " I miss the Minter boys"!! I am so glad that they are are our neighbors, friend and family! We are so lucky to have them! They must be good people for putting up with us!!! I did not want out vacation to end!! But I guess I can not stop time - so onward I go to getting everyone ready for school!!

The Kids are growing every day!

2009-07-08T00:34:00.003-05:00

Here are some recent pictures of the kids! I am amazed every day at how much they are growing up! They all have their own personalities with qualities that I love in all of them!

Happy 4th!

2009-07-04T13:29:00.003-05:00

This is one of our favorite holidays at our house! Sam and the kids love the fireworks! I love being able to watch them all having fun!! Reed is even having a great time today! We will be playing at our park today with a softball game, frog jumping contest and pool games! Then we are off to enjoy dinner with the family and fireworks at dark! I just hope everyone remebers today what it is all about! I want to thank everyone who has ever fought or is serving right now for all the sacrifices they have made for us! Here is the sweetest picture of a friend of ours who has served in Iraq! It brings tears to my eyes! Thankyou so much Todd and his family for all that you have done for us!

Main Street Sassy Bags

2009-06-19T10:58:00.005-05:00

My friend and I have started a new business! We are selling cute, unique style purses! After attending a purse party a few weeks ago we both looked at each other and said, "we could do this." Fast forward a few weeks and we have Main Street Sassy Bags!! We are having our first open house style show June 28th from 2-5 at 211 N Main Street Rock Port, MO. If you are in the area come on over! We also have them online for you to purchase if you are out of the area! We are so excited!! We have lots of fun purses! The hardest part in this whole venture is which one do I want to buy! We are going to be filling up the calendar with shows. If you are interested in hosting your own purse party just send us an email mainstreetsassybags@gmail.com and we will get it all set up. We are offering host incentives for having your own show! We are even doing online shows for you folks out of town! You can check out the cute styles here!

2009-05-15T22:18:00.001-05:00

Field Trip To Jefferson City, MO

2009-05-15T22:11:00.001-05:00

Ethans’ grade was very fortunate to take an overnight trip to our state Capitol – Jefferson City! What a big trip this was for him!! They started out with a 5 hour bus ride (yuck – who would want to do that) – but for Ethan that was fun!! They toured the Supreme Court Building, the Capitol and the State Highway Patrol Headquarters. While at the Capitol they were very lucky to get to sit in and witness the congress voting! What an amazing thing for them! I am kind of jealous I did not get to go too!! They even were about to get a very special tour and take them to the top of the Capitol and walk the edge that overlooks the whole city!! So here is the funny part – Ethan took our camera and lets just say his teachers said he was their little Chinese tourist!! He took 285 pictures!!! I loved looking at all of them! All the kids had a fantastic time and will always remember this trip! Thankyou to the teachers who put all of it together!!

2009-05-15T22:09:00.000-05:00

Schools OUT for Summer!!

2009-05-15T21:34:00.005-05:00

I can not believe it but today was the last day of school! This year has gone by so fast!! The kids are so happy to be done! They like their teachers this year and will miss them alot! Hannah was very lucky to have a teacher that had just moved here! We really liked her! But we are sad that she will be moving back to her home town! :(( This morning we delivered the teachers their gifts! I had a great time working on them!! I am going to have to start thinking ahead for next year! Okay 1 week until summer school! I at least get a few days of sleeping in! Well only if Claire will let me!!

Soccer has started

2009-04-11T20:53:00.003-05:00

Oh - won't Sam love that I posted this picture!!

Today Sam and I finished marking the soccer fields. Reed, Hannah and Ethan played at the park and Claire - well she was nice and comfy in her stroller! We got them all finished! Our first games start next Saturday! I can not wait!!

Easter Bunny

2009-04-11T20:49:00.001-05:00

Reed got to visit with him today!

She loves it!

2009-04-11T20:36:00.002-05:00

Well - I think she does! Her new seat has opened up a whole new view!

Who wants one?

2009-04-11T20:29:00.001-05:00

Okay so we all fight over the mixer thing - especially after making brownie batter! Well this time it was Reed's turn! He felt pretty special to get it all to himself!!

Day at the Park

2009-04-11T20:28:00.002-05:00

Today was a Beautiful day! We took the kids to the park! I think they had a good time!

2009-04-11T20:27:00.001-05:00

Liberty Jail

2009-04-11T19:30:00.004-05:00

A few weekends ago we went to Liberty, MO - we visited the Liberty Jail and had yummy ice cream! Hannah and I shared a Banana Split - I forgot my camera in the car - so no pictures of they yummy masterpiece!!

Making a snowman - Sammy style!

2009-03-01T19:21:00.003-06:00

Sam, Hannah and Reed worked on this lovely guy for about 3 hours on Saturday! I have to say he is pretty cute!!

20 Attitudes of Gratitude

2009-02-26T08:47:00.005-06:00

I found these and thought they were great to share!

20 Little Attitudes of Gratitude

1. Mind your manners. Say please, thank you and excuse me.
2. Smile when you see your family. Turn your frown upside down.
3. Pick up after yourself.
4. Notice when others do kind things for you, show gratitude by action or words.
5. Say I love you before going to bed.
6. Give hugs daily.
7. Don’t worry about tomorrow. Focus on what you are happy about today.
8. Create gratitude journals to keep track of daily blessings.
9. Show thankfulness for even the little things others do for you.
10. Leave love notes in unexpected places like lunch boxes and under pillows.
11. Encourage someone with a compliment.
12. Verbalize what you are grateful for when you feel like complaining about life.
13. Keep a basket of small slips of paper on the table. Write notes of thankfulness during the week and read them to each other during a family meal.
14. Remember to thank God for blessings each day.
15. Surprise your family (or friends) with little gifts or treats to show you thought of them.
16. No grumbling about minor annoyances around the house.
17. Do special things to cherish time with your family. You never know what tomorrow will bring.

18.Reflect on happy memories regularly. Make inspiration boards of special times.
19.Help someone out without them having to ask you. Watch for someone in need.
20. When you are doing household chores, be grateful you have a home to clean.

A surprise every time

2009-02-23T19:20:00.003-06:00

So every time I download my pictures from my camera I always get surprise pictures. Reed loves my camera

that is why it takes such bad pictures - it gets banged around a lot)!

Today when I downloaded my pictures I found the cutest picture yet and a few more.

He is on his way to being a professional photographer!!

He must of layed the camera on the ground and took it that way. I have to say this is the cutest picture of him!

Painting

2009-02-23T19:16:00.003-06:00

I am trying to do a project with Reed each day. Yesterday we painted. This is him hard at work!

Playing at Grandad and Grandma's

2009-02-21T23:12:00.004-06:00

We were lucky to have Grandma home for a little bit - and in that time Reed had some play dates. He had a great time - but I do have to add that tonight he told us that Grandma called him an "Egg Head" - ummm - Grandma you have some explaining to do!! Just kidding - I am sure Reed called you some choice words before that!

Thankyou Granddad

2009-02-21T23:07:00.003-06:00

Reed was able to set up a lunch date with his Grandad

Reed said he had an "awesome" time.

Thankyou Grandad for taking him!

Laundry detergent

2009-02-21T22:19:00.004-06:00

So you all might think I have lost it but I made my own laundry soap! (yes I got this great idea from the Duggar family)It has been quite fun!! I have made both powdered and liquid - so far I have only used the powdered. I will use the liquid as soon as I finish up the gain that I had. (I need the bottle to put it in) So far the powdered has worked great. I have not seen any difference in the clothes not being clean. I do think that the clothes are softer after I wash them with the powder mix. I had a hard time finding the 3 ingredients but after a long search I finally found them all at HyVee. I must of driven by HyVee a dozen times in search of these things. I would never of thought to look there!

Anyways here is the recipes that I have been using in case any brave soul decides to try it!

Homemade Liquid Laundry Soap-

Front or top load machine-

4 Cups hot tap water

1 Fels-Naptha soap bar

1 Cup Washing Soda

½ Cup Borax

- Grate bar of soap and add to saucepan with water. Stir continually over medium-low heat until soap dissolves and is melted.
-Fill a 5 gallon bucket half full of hot tap water. Add melted soap, washing soda and Borax. Stir well until all powder is dissolved. Fill bucket to top with more hot water. Stir, cover and let sit overnight to thicken.
-Stir and fill a used, clean, laundry soap dispenser half full with soap and then fill rest of way with water. Shake before each use. (will gel)
-Optional: You can add 10-15 drops of essential oil per 2 gallons. Add once soap has cooled. Ideas: lavender, rosemary, tea tree oil.

-Yield: Liquid soap recipe makes 10 gallons.
-Top Load Machine- 5/8 Cup per load (Approx. 180 loads)
-Front Load Machines- ¼ Cup per load (Approx. 640 loads)

(about .03 cents per load)

Powdered Laundry Detergent- Top load machine

(this is the same amount of ingredients as the recipe above but only makes enough for 40 loads - it is easier to store but not as cost effective as the liquid)

1 Fels-Naptha soap bar

1 Cup Washing Soda

½ Cup Borax

-Grate soap or break into pieces and process in a food processor until powdered. Mix all ingredients. For light load, use 1 Tablespoon. For heavy or heavily soiled load, use 2 Tablespoons. Yields: 3 Cups detergent. (Approx. 40 loads)

(about .10 cents per load)

Basketball

2009-02-21T20:26:00.002-06:00

Today we watched Ethan play in his first basketball games!

They did not do too well but they had fun!!

Lazy Day

2009-02-16T09:31:00.004-06:00

Since yesterday day was so busy - this is how the day is starting off here:

Hannah's Baptism

2009-02-16T09:29:00.004-06:00

On Sunday Hannah was baptized! It was a very busy but nice day! We are so happy for her!

Sledding

2009-02-16T09:04:00.008-06:00

On Friday we got a nice amount of snow. We took the kids sledding (actually Sam went with the kids - I sat in the van with Claire and had fun watching) at the park. To start the day off - Reed was first. Ethan sent him down the him all by himself. He was doing great until his path was heading right towards the one and only tree! I thought for sure we were headed to the Emergency Room. Reed sure is a tough little guy! He survived with not scratches or bruises - just a broken sled!This was the new way he was going down after his crash!

This was Reed's way back up the hill!

As much as I hate alot of snow- I do love a little bit of snow!

It is nice to take the kids sledding and be able to come home when they are cold.

No more 2 hour drive home like when we lived in California!

Claire's Blessing

2009-02-01T20:36:00.005-06:00

Today we had Claire blessed. It was a beautiful day and the weather was great! She looked so beautiful and Sam did a great job!

Somebody is SMILING!

2009-01-29T10:55:00.003-06:00

I love my kids!

2009-01-20T11:38:00.004-06:00

Claire is growing so much!

Reed makes us all laugh!

Hannah is the best helper and big sister!

Ethan is a great helper too!

Fashion Show

2009-01-19T18:53:00.003-06:00

Hannah had a friend spend the night last weekend. They put on a fashion show for us! You know WHO was right in the middle of it. I do have to laugh because when I was growing up I had no one to bug. I was the youngest and did all the bugging! I am sure my 2 sisters loved me!!

Here are some pictures of the FASHION SHOW:

How do you feed your baby?

2009-01-13T11:03:00.003-06:00

Well in this crazy house I feed Claire. It is my only time to sit and spend time with her! I would not have it any other way! For Mr. Reed he feels otherwise! This is the conversation that he and I have every time I feed Claire:

Reed: No do not feed her
me: Why Reed, She is hungry
Reed: No not with your boobie
me: What should I feed her with
Reed: My boobie (he then lifts up his shirt)
me: Oh yah Reed, you do not have anything in there to feed her
Reed: Yes I do(as he points to one side) this one milk (then he points to the other side) this one has chicken nuggets

Oh, the things children say!

Christmas

2009-01-02T15:45:00.003-06:00

Here are a few pictures from Christmas!

The kids got a computer which they had been wanting forever! Now they will stop asking to use mine!!

Reed loves his new train table! Hopefully the trains will not be on the floor anymore!

Their stockings came filled with lots of fun goodies along with their favorite cereal!

That has become their favorite tradition!

We also decorated a gingerbread house this year with the help of Grandma Jeanne!

Claire

2008-12-13T22:44:00.000-06:00

Things are going great here! I could not of asked for an easier baby! She is so sweet and easy going! The kids are the best helpers around! Hannah has even helped me with diaper changing. Ethan, Hannah and Reed all fight over who gets to hold her. She sure is loved!! What a miracle children are! Heavenly father sure knew what he was doing when he created them! They bring so much joy and love to a family! We are so blessed for the sweet spirit that Claire has brought to us! Every day that passes I am more and more amazed at how beautiful she is and how much she makes all of us smile.

Claire is HERE!!

2008-12-05T12:51:00.000-06:00

Claire made her FAST arrival yesterday at 9:13 am. Everything went perfect! We could not of asked for an easier time! Here is a picture of her - I will post more later after we get settled in at home!

Claire Elizabeth Louise Miller

7lbs 12 ozs

9:13 am

21 inches

Grandma Jeanne is here!

2008-11-26T12:48:00.000-06:00

We are so blessed to have grandma Jeanne here! Reed has not left her alone since she arrived! We are cleaning the house (well if you know Grandma - she is cleaning) and getting ready for Thanksgiving! She has been cracking the whip and getting me moving in getting ready for Miss Claire! There is a list of things that I need to do today and I did not write it! We love grandma and thankyou so much for spending this time with us!

Wolf Lodge with the cousins

2008-11-26T12:20:00.001-06:00

I have not been a very good blogger lately! Sorry!

Last week Auntie Jen, Anneliese and Zachary came to Missourri for the week. We were able to spend the night at the Wolf Lodge down in Kansas City with them! (Thankyou Grandma and Grandad).

The kids had a great time together!

Reed had to jump on the bed a little!

The kids enjoyed the story time!

Happy Birthday Hannah!

2008-11-14T19:03:00.000-06:00

Yesterday was Hannah's 9th birthday! I can not believe how old she is getting!! We love her so much and hope she had a great day!

Not sure what to think!

2008-11-11T17:48:00.000-06:00

I was in the other room and thought Reed was a little quiet! This is what I found:

There was a few problems here!

The dog KNOWS he is not allowed on the couch. If he gets on there and hears us coming he immediately jumps off! He did not even blink when I came and saw him this time!

The other problem is Reed has tucked him in!

They were pretty cute while it lasted!

Happy Halloween

2008-11-01T14:54:00.001-05:00

She finally has a name!

2008-10-31T13:36:00.000-05:00

We have finally decided on her name - it is:

Now for the middle name that is still up for debate! I think we will wait until she arrives to decide that one!

I just had my 35 week appointment and everything is going great! I am having to test my glucose every day but so far my numbers have been good! I just have to hold out 5 more weeks and hopefully return back to normal! I can not complain to much as I have lost weight with the pregnancy instead of gaining a ton like usual! I have a lot to spare so it is okay!!

We went BOOING tonight

2008-10-25T19:02:00.000-05:00

I got this cute idea from another blog and had to do it with the kids! We made treats today that consists of orange rice cripy treats and mini caramel apples! We then wrapped up 4 plates to take to the victims!! Sam drove the get away car, Ethan and Hannah did the dirty work and Reed and I just laughed and hope no one fell out of the van as Sam was speeding off!

So on the plate of goodies is a cute saying and a ghost cut out. You drop this plate of goodies at their door, ring the bell and run as fast as you can! They then get the goodies and do no know who dropped it off! On the plate is directions to do the same to 2 more people! We live in such a small town hopefully this will get around!

The kids had a great time and thought this was the neatest idea! We have already been requested to do it at Christmas time!!

Here are some pictures - they are not very good - our camera is on its last leg!!

Can you believe the GAS price??

2008-10-23T13:12:00.000-05:00

So I had to make another trip to St. Joseph yesterday! It is about an hour away and that is where we get all of our groceries and neccesities! You know all the fun stuff!! I have made about 3 trips there this last week and every time I go the gas prices keep dropping! I thought 2.49 was good so I filled up. Next time I was excited to see 2.39 so I filled up again! This last time I filled up it was 2.33!! I did go again and it was 2.29 but I am so sick up giving money to the gas stations that I did not fill up!! Thought you all would like to see what makes my day when I have to drive to St. Joseph!!

Reed is 3

2008-10-22T10:27:00.000-05:00

I can not believe that our little one is 3! Where has the time gone? We had a pretty laid back birthday for Mr. Reed! We had tacos for dinner and Reed has his favorite - peanut butter sandwhich and chocolate milk. I did not think we all wanted to eat that! We then had cake and ice cream and opened his presents! I think he had a good day - even though he seemed to be reallly sassy and sat in time out 10 times (or so it seemed)! My mom always said kids are the worst on their birthdays!

2008-10-05T13:10:00.001-05:00

Youth Pheasant Clinic

2008-10-05T12:52:00.000-05:00

Saturday Sam and Ethan were able to attend a youth pheasant clinic. They started out the day eating breakfast and was followed by 5 stations. The boys were taught all about gun safety, target practice with clays and an actual hunt. Ethan had a great time. I think he has found a sport that he is very interested in. (Sorry Grandma Debby) He especially did well at the clay shooting he only missed 2 out of 9! He did actually get his first pheasant! They also taught them how to clean them! Yes there is pheasant in the fridge that I have no clue what to do with!! I think Sam and Ethan had a great day and Ethan hopes to go again soon! I guess this is what happens when you live in a small farming community! While the boys were out at the hunt Hannah, Reed, Gabriel and I went to the Omaha Zoo. That was fun too! Reed enjoyed his first "real " train ride. Sorry no pictures from our day since Sam had the camera!

Flag Football

2008-09-28T15:45:00.000-05:00

Sam and the kids played flag football this year! It was a pretty short 3 weeks but just long enough for me! They had a really good time and might I add they were undefeated!

Kimmel Orchard

2008-09-28T15:15:00.000-05:00

So today we decided to take a family day and go to an Apple orchard in Nebraska City. The weather was really nice and the kids had a good time! We also brought home some yummy apples and apple cider!! I might add it was hard for me to not get a carmel apple! Oh well - Hannah had one for me!

Yes - that is Reed. He is mad at us so he decided to climb on the rock and listen the man playing the music!

We took a hay ride out to the orchards and picked our own apples.

Reed ate a few along the way! Okay - so we all did! They were delicious!!

The best part of the trip was Reed found these glasses out in the field! He has not let go of them since! They have no lenses in them - but oh well - whatever makes him happy!

Old Fashioned Saturday Nights

2008-09-21T12:04:00.000-05:00

Every year our town closes Main Street. They have it filled with games for the kids, yummy food, hay rides, firetruck rides and of course Betsy Bingo! For those of you who do not know what that is -well it is a pen that has a mat with squares - like Bingo -They sell squares - once all the squares have been bought they put the calf in the pen! Eventually Miss Betsy will poop and if it lands on your square then you get half the winnings! It is quite funny!!! If you are the lucky one you get a pretty good amount of $$$! The kids enjoyed the blow up slide and all the games! It was perfect weather and everyone seemed to be having a good time!

It's a ......

2008-09-04T09:00:00.000-05:00

GIRL!

Yesterday we had our doctor appointment and with much anticipation we found out "it" is now a GIRL!!! She finally cooperated after 3 failed attempts! Hannah is very excited to have a sister! Ethan was not too thrilled - he would rather out number the girls in the house! Reed was just jumping up and down because Hannah was! Sam and I are excited that she is healthy! She looks great!

Girls day

2008-09-02T08:48:00.000-05:00

Yesterday, Hannah and I had a girls day! We went to El Portal (this super yummy mexican restaurant) in Nebraska City. Then a quick trip to Walmart for some munchies and off to the movies we went! We saw Momma Mia! I was not sure how she would like it! I really wanted to go and did not want to see it by myself so with a little bribe of going out to eat she came with me! We had a great time! We both loved the movie and laughed alot!! I can not wait to do another girls day!! Thankyou Hannah for coming with me!!

Bilby Ranch Lake

2008-08-11T22:48:00.000-05:00

On Sunday Sam took Ethan, Christopher (Ethan's friend) and Hannah fishing. Ethan got a new pole for his birthday and has been looking forward to trying it out! I think they kept Sam pretty busy with all the fish they caught! Of course all the fish went back in the lake but the kids had fun anyways!! No fish for dinner here!

2008-08-11T22:47:00.001-05:00

Any one want their nails painted??

2008-08-11T22:18:00.000-05:00

So Reed decided to hide from me and paint his nails! I was talking to a friends mom at the door when I was greeted by Reed and his lovely paint job! The first thing running through my mind is " where else is the paint - on the couch, the walls or the floor"! This could of been major!! But to my surprise Reed only painted his hands!! Way to go Reed and way to go Hannah for not putting your polish away!!

Happy Birthday Sammy

2008-08-07T22:12:00.000-05:00

Happy Birthday!!!

Today is Sam's 32nd birthday!

I can not believe he is that old!! Just Kidding!!

We love you so much and hope you had a fun day!!

Cousins visit

2008-08-07T22:05:00.000-05:00

Okay so I the worst and did not take a single picture while Nicole and Becky's families were here!! So I stole this one picture from Becky's blog! Thanks Beck!! This is a picture of Grandma Jeanne with all 13 grankids!! We all had a great time! It was wild and crazy and the kids loved every minute of it! We even managed to take all 13 to the pool! We love you all! Thankyou for coming to little Rock Port!!

I put the initial of who they belong to!
back left: Zachary (B), Reed (K), David (N), Rebekah (N), Andie (N), Ethan (K), Hannah(K)

front left: James (B), Daniel (B), Grandma Jeanne, Ruby (B), Luke (B), JohnMichael (B) and Noah (N)

Grandma Jeanne is Coming

2008-07-23T08:33:00.001-05:00

Today we are so excited to be going to the airport to pick up Grandma Jeanne! We already have the day planned! Ethan wants to eat at his favorite buffet place and Hannah wants to go shopping! Poor Reed does not know what he wants! She will be with us for about a week then she is off to Iowa to visit Becky's family! In the mean time Nicole's family is coming on Saturday (driving from Texas) and Becky and the kids will get here on Tuesday! There were be 13 kids between the 3 of us and the house is sure to be busy! We are all so excited!!!

Worlds of Fun

2008-07-20T11:02:00.003-05:00

We went to Worlds of Fun on Saturday! Grandma Debby and Grandad surprised Ethan with tickets for his birthday!! We all had so much fun! It was rather hot and I think we sweated more then we would of liked but all in all everyone had a great time! Reed got to ride on rides and see Snoopy. Ethan and Hannah were talked into all the BIG rides!! They were tall enough to ride everything! They also took a turn at the rock wall. Ethan made it to the top but Hannah was not able too! Maybe next time she will!! We also enjoyed a yummy BBQ. At the end of the day every ones feet were pretty tired and we felt pretty sticky! Thank you Grandma and Grandad for the FUN day!!!

2008-07-20T11:02:00.001-05:00

Pool Party for Ethan's Birthday

2008-07-20T10:51:00.001-05:00

What will it be??

2008-07-16T19:39:00.000-05:00

Today we had our 5 month visit! We were hoping to see what this little one is - but no such luck! He/she would not budge! Hannah did the same thing and we had to wait until the day she was born to find out! It was a great visit - Sam and Hannah came with me! Hannah was hoping to be the first to know it was a girl! Instead she was able to do the heart beat monitor and hear the heart beating. She thought that was pretty neat! Next month the Doc will try again! Here are a few pictures of baby #4. I would have to say he/she definetly looks more like Sam's side of the family!

Dinner for Ethan

2008-07-15T23:28:00.001-05:00

Happy 10th Birthday ETHAN!

2008-07-15T23:19:00.001-05:00

Today is Ethan's 10th Birthday!

I can not believe that he is 10!!

We had a great dinner with Grandaddy and Grandma Debby, the Minter clan and 2 of Ethan's freinds from school! I think he had a great time!!

He will have his pool party on Friday with all his friends!

(Ethan at 1 years old!)

Mr. Reed is at it again

2008-07-15T22:06:00.000-05:00

This is what happens when I leave the bathroom! He sure had fun doing it! It was pretty cute!Sam was not too happy to find out he had no shaving cream left!

Mr. Reed

2008-07-08T23:07:00.001-05:00

Reed decided to get into the powdered Kool Aid!!

Trip to the Zoo

2008-07-08T21:29:00.000-05:00

Sam has had the last week off - we were not planning on going to far but we did manage to make a day trip to the Omaha Zoo! This is not your Normal zoo! It takes you a few days to check everything out!! They had a great time feeding the birds, checking out the sharks in the aquarium and the alligators in the Creatures of the night!! Sam especially loved the bat caves!!! Reed's favorites were the monkeys! Ethan enjoyed the little yellow monkey that was out and on the vine! He was so close to Ethan - The 2 would not move - Ethan would creep a little bit closer - then the monkey would come a little closer - finally the little guy swiped at Ethan and it was time to move on!!!

We had a great time! It was nice to spend the day with Dad!! The kids were tired and could barely make it to the car when the day was done! I think Reed lasted a whole 2 minutes in the car before he was asleep!!