my little band of four

An Advent Calendar: Come, Let Us Adore Him

2011-10-27T10:52:00.000-07:00

lds.org/new-era/1989/12/come-let-us-adore-him-an-advent-calendar?lang=eng

Come, Let Us Adore Him: An Advent Calendar

The King

1. This is no ordinary advent calendar with little windows to open or snowmen to paste on. You are the only moving part.

This calendar reviews the Savior’s entire mission from premortal councils on through his future return as Lord of Lord and King of Kings.

Each day between now and Christmas you’ll read one or more passages of scripture, moving from epoch to epoch across the vast span of the Redeemer’s work.

Each day there will be a suggestion* of something you can do to grow closer to the Savior. There will also be a hymn or carol* to sing. Here are today’s suggestions:

* Invite your family (or seminary class) to join you in each day’s reading and singing.

Remember the Savior’s promise: “For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them” (Matt 18:20).

* “Oh, Come, All Ye Faithful,” Hymns, 1985, no. 202.

2. At Christmas we celebrate much more than the birth of a baby—we celebrate who that child already was, and what he would yet become. Christmas is a time of looking—to the past, with its glimpses of premortal glory, and to the future, with its promise of eternity.

“For behold, the time … is not far distant, that with power, the Lord Omnipotent who reigneth, who was, and is from all eternity to all eternity, shall come down from heaven among the children of men, and shall dwell in a tabernacle of clay, and shall go forth amongst men, working mighty miracles …

“And he shall be called Jesus Christ, the Son of God, the Father of heaven and earth, the Creator of all things from the beginning; and his mother shall be called Mary.

“And lo, he cometh unto his own, that salvation might come unto the children of men even through faith on his name; and even after all this they shall consider him a man, and say that he hath a devil, and shall scourge him, and shall crucify him.

“And he shall rise the third day from the dead; and behold, he standeth to judge the world” (Mosiah 3:5, 8–10).

* As you decorate for Christmas, choose or make a decoration that will remind you of the Savior and his mission.

* “I Believe in Christ,” Hymns, no. 134.

3. All that we have—the air we breathe, the light by which we see—are gifts from a loving Father and his Son. In this season of giving, let us give one of the greatest gifts we can offer—a grateful, humble heart.

“As [Jesus] entered into a certain village, there met him ten men that were lepers …

“And … he said unto them, Go shew yourselves unto the priests. And it came to pass, that, as they went, they were cleansed.

“And one of them … turned back, and with a loud voice glorified God,

“And Jesus answering said, Were there not ten cleansed? but where are the nine?” (Luke 17:12, 14, 15, 17).

* In one of your prayers today, give thanks for every blessing you can name, without asking anything.

* “Count Your Blessings,” Hymns, no. 241.

4. Many people are hungry—not just for food but for love, for acceptance, for support. Some are starving spiritually. Jesus knew how to feed every kind of hunger. In our small way we can do the same.

“[Jesus’] disciples came to him, saying … send the multitude away, that they may … buy themselves victuals.

“But Jesus said unto them, They need not depart; give ye them to eat.

“And they say unto him, We have here but five loaves, and two fishes.

“He said, Bring them hither to me.

“… and looking up to heaven, he blessed, and brake, and gave the loaves to his disciples, and the disciples, to the multitude” (Matt. 14:15–19).

* Feed someone spiritually. Write your testimony in a Book of Mormon and give it away.

* “Tell Me the Stories of Jesus,” Children’s Songbook, 1989, p. 57.

The Just One

5. Christmas shines with lights—on trees and houses and city streets. As we recall the bright star over Bethlehem, do we remember the Source of all light?

“He … ascended up on high, as also he descended below all things, in that he comprehended all things, that he might be in all and through all things, the light of truth;

“Which truth shineth. This is the light of Christ. As also he is in the sun, and the light of the sun, and the power thereof by which it was made.

“As also he is in the moon, and is the light of the moon, and the power thereof by which it was made;

“As also the light of the stars, and the power thereof by which they were made;

“And the earth also, and the power thereof, even the earth upon which you stand.

“And the light which shineth, which giveth you light, is through him who enlighteneth your eyes, which is the same light that quickeneth your understandings;

“Which light proceedeth forth from the presence of God to fill the immensity of space—

“The light which is in all things, which giveth life to all things, which is the law by which all things are governed” (D&C 88:6–13).

* Look up at the heavens and think about who made the sun, moon, and stars. Record your feelings in your journal.

* “The Lord Is My Light,” Hymns, no. 89.

6. Jesus was a healer. He touched away blindness and filled withered limbs with new life. He restored the mind and soul. Surrounded by much hurt and sorrow, we can, in our own way, be healers also. Sometimes a kind word and a helping hand are all that is needed.

“And … Jesus … cast his eyes … on the multitude, and beheld they were in tears, and did look steadfastly upon him as if they would ask him to tarry a little longer with them.

“And he said unto them: Behold, my bowels are filled with compassion towards you. …

“And … all the multitude … did go forth with their sick and their afflicted, and their lame, and with their blind, and with their dumb, and with all them that were afflicted in any manner; and he did heal them every one” (3 Ne. 17:5, 6, 9).

* Try to be as kind as possible to others today.

* “I Need Thee Every Hour,” Hymns, no. 98.

7. The Savior knows the weight of our suffering and the depth of our pain. He has suffered for us, and he loves us without reservation. There is no problem so hard or despair so dark that he can’t help us if we let him.

“He is despised and rejected of men; a man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief: and we hid as it were our faces from him; he was despised, and we esteemed him not.

“Surely he hath borne our griefs, and carried our sorrows: yet we did esteem him stricken, smitten of God, and afflicted.

“But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed” (Isa. 53:3–5).

“Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest” (Matt. 11:28).

* Go out of your way to befriend someone who needs a friend. Follow through in the days and weeks to come.

* “Come unto Jesus,” Hymns, no. 117.

8. The greatest blessings aren’t those of getting but those of becoming. Jesus taught:

“Blessed are the poor in spirit who come unto me, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

“And again, blessed are all they that mourn, for they shall be comforted.

“And blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth.

“And blessed are all they who do hunger and thirst after righteousness, for they shall be filled with the Holy Ghost.

“And blessed are the merciful, for they shall obtain mercy.

“And blessed are all the pure in heart, for they shall see God.

“And blessed are all the peacemakers, for they shall be called the children of god” (3 Ne. 12:3–9).

* Foster peace on earth by not quarreling with your brothers or sisters.

* “More Holiness Give Me,” Hymns, no. 131.

The Lamb

9. In a world divided by national, religious, political, and racial hatreds, it’s time everyone reviewed Jesus’ answer to the question, “Who is my neighbour?”

“A certain man went down from Jerusalem to Jericho, and fell among thieves, which stripped him of his raiment, and wounded him, and departed, leaving him half dead.

“And by chance there came down a certain priest that way: and when he saw him, he passed by on the other side.

“And likewise a Levite, when he was at the place, came and looked on him, and passed by on the other side.

“But a certain Samaritan, as he journeyed, came where he was: and when he saw him, he had compassion on him.

“And went to him, and bound up his wounds, pouring in oil and wine, and set him on his own beast, and brought him to an inn, and took care of him. …

“Which now of these three, thinkest thou, was neighbour unto him that fell among the thieves?” (Luke 10:30–34, 36).

* Do a good deed anonymously.

* “Because I Have Been Given Much,” Hymns, no. 219.

10. We take our free agency for granted, but it was seriously challenged before our mortal lives even began. This Christmas let’s give thanks for the one who defended our freedom.

“Satan … came before me, saying—Behold, here am I, send me, I will be thy son, and I will redeem all mankind, that one soul shall not be lost, and surely I will do it; wherefore give me thine honor.

“But, behold, my Beloved Son, which was my Beloved and Chosen from the beginning, said unto me—Father, thy will be done, and the glory be thine forever.

“Wherefore, because that Satan rebelled against me, and sought to destroy the agency of man, which I, the Lord God, had given him … ; by the power of mine Only Begotten, I caused that he should be cast down” (Moses 4:1–3).

* Use your free agency to set some goals for yourself. Seal a copy in an envelope to be opened in a year.

* “How Great the Wisdom and the Love,” Hymns, no. 195.

11. We could labor every day of our lives and still not repay the kindness of our Lord. But he has shown us that there is a way to serve him.

“Then shall the righteous answer him, saying, Lord, when saw we thee an hungred, and fed thee? or thirsty, and gave thee drink?

“When saw we thee a stranger, and took thee in? or naked, and clothed thee?

“Or when saw we thee sick, or in prison, and came unto thee?

“And the King shall answer … , Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me” (Matt. 25:37–40).

* Visit someone who is sick or lonely.

* “A Poor Wayfaring Man of Grief,” Hymns, no. 29.

12. The Master taught that it isn’t what you have that counts; it’s what you give. Giving of yourself can fill your world with joy, not only at Christmas, but all year long.

“Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and thieves break through and steal;

“But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal” (3 Ne. 13:19–20).

* You’ll treasure the time you spend helping others. Do volunteer work for some worthy cause.

* “I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day,” Hymns, no. 214.

Prince of Peace

13. We don’t like to think of illness or death at Christmastime, but these shadows can fall on any season. Jesus taught us an unforgettable lesson in empathy when he shared the grief of his friends after the death of Lazarus.

“Jesus wept.

“Then said the Jews, Behold how he loved him! …

“Then they took away the stone from the place where the dead was laid. And Jesus … cried with a loud voice, Lazarus, come forth.

“And he that was dead came forth” (John 11:35, 36, 41, 43, 44).

* Do something to bring cheer to someone who has a reason to feel sad.

* “Abide with Me!” Hymns, no. 166.

14. Christmas would hardly be Christmas without children. They are so much of the magic in the season. The Savior also loved children. In both the New World and the old, he called the little ones to him.

“They brought their little children and set them down upon the ground round about him, …

“… and he took their little children, one by one, and blessed them, and prayed unto the Father for them. …

“And … they saw the heavens open, and they saw angels descending out of heaven as it were in the midst of fire; and they came down and encircled those little ones about, … and the angels did minister unto them (3 Ne. 17:12, 21, 24).

* Do something fun with a little brother or sister or some other child.

* “I Think When I Read That Sweet Story,” Children’s Songbook, p. 56.

15. Turmoil and strife, combat and competition—our world is full of the consequences of man dealing with man. But the Savior told us how to truly succeed, through peace on earth and good will toward men.

“If ye love me, keep my commandments” (John 14:15).

“all things whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them” (Matt. 7:12).

“Whosoever will be great among you … shall be servant of all” (Mark 10:43–44).

“A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another.

“By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another” (John 13:34–35).

* Today tell someone that you love them. Express love for the Lord in your prayers.

* “Love One Another,” Hymns, no. 308.

16. Jesus came to lift our burdens. One of the heaviest burdens we carry is that of hate. In teaching us to forgive, the Lord set us free.

“Then came Peter to him, and said, Lord, how oft shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? till seven times?

“Jesus saith unto him, I say not unto thee, Until seven times: but, Until seventy times seven” (Matt. 18:21–22).

“For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you:

“But if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses” (Matt. 6:14–15).

“Behold I say unto you, love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them who despitefully use you” (3 Ne. 12:44).

* Try to forgive someone who has wronged you. If appropriate, go to him today and be reconciled.

* “Did You Think to Pray?” Hymns, no. 140.

Redeemer

17. Have you ever wished you could be baptized again and start over fresh?

When we repent of our sins and partake of the sacrament worthily, we renew our covenants and are clean.

“Jesus commanded his disciples that they should bring forth some bread and wine. …

“And … he took of the bread and brake and blessed it. …

“And when the multitude had eaten and were filled, he said …

“This shall ye do in remembrance of my body, which I have shown unto you. And it shall be a testimony unto the Father that ye do always remember me. And if ye do always remember me ye shall have my Spirit to be with you. … (3 Ne. 18:1, 3, 5, 7, 9–11).

* As you partake of the sacrament, make a special effort to think about the Savior.

* “While of These Emblems We Partake,” Hymns, no. 173.

18. We all have storms in our lives—storms of fear and anger and regret—storms at home and at school. The Master’s hand can calm all our tempests.

“And when he was entered into a ship, his disciples followed him.

“And, behold, there arose a great tempest in the sea, insomuch that the ship was covered with the waves: but he was asleep.

“And his disciples came to him, and awoke him, saying, Lord, save us: we perish.

“And he saith unto them, Why are ye fearful, O ye of little faith? Then he arose, and rebuked the winds and the sea; and there was a great calm” (Matt. 8:23–26).

* Be a calming influence today. Try extra hard to control your temper.

* “Master, the Tempest Is Raging,” Hymns, no. 105.

19. The greatest victory of all time was not won on a battlefield but in a quiet hillside garden.

We cannot fully understand the cost of that triumph, but as Christmas draws near we should at least try.

“O my Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from me: nevertheless not as I will, but as thou wilt” (Matt. 26:39).

“For behold, I, God, have suffered these things for all, that they might not suffer if they would repent;

“But if they would not repent they must suffer even as I;

“Which suffering caused myself, even God, the greatest of all, to tremble because of pain, and to bleed at every pore, and to suffer both body and spirit—and would that I might not drink the bitter cup, and shrink—

“Nevertheless, glory be to the Father, and I partook and finished my preparations unto the children of men” (D&C 19:16–19).

* Accept the gift of forgiveness. Pray to Heavenly Father about some weakness and ask for help in repenting of it.

* “How Great Thou Art,” Hymns, no. 86.

20. Some things are almost too painful to think about. To see our Savior mocked and murdered is one such thing. And yet, through the scriptures, we should visit Calvary from time to time. We must never forget Jesus died so that we might live and live more abundantly.

“They stripped him, and put on him a scarlet robe.

“And when they had platted a crown of thorns, they put it upon his head, and a reed in his right hand: and they bowed the knee before him, and mocked him, saying, Hail, King of the Jews!

“And they spit upon him, and took the reed, and smote him on the head” (Matt. 27:28–30).

“And when they were come to the place, which is called Calvary, there they crucified him. …

“Then said Jesus, Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do. And they parted his raiment, and cast lots” (Luke 23:33–34).

“And they that passed by railed on him, wagging their heads, and saying, Ah, thou that destroyest the temple, and buildest it in three days,

“Save thyself, and come down from the cross.

“Likewise also the chief priests mocking said among themselves with the scribes, He saved others; himself he cannot save.

“Let Christ the King of Israel descend now from the cross, that we may see and believe” (Mark 15:29–32).

* Read the accounts of the crucifixion in the four Gospels, and then write your feelings in your journal.

* “There Is a Green Hill Far Away,” Hymns, no. 194.

Messiah

21. The morning of Christ’s resurrection was the brightest morning in all history—a time of transcendent joy following the gloom of the crucifixion. The words of the angel still echo down the centuries undiminished. He is risen!

Those words signaled more than the triumph of a god. They proclaimed the supremacy of life over death.

As we celebrate Christmas, we also celebrate the free gift of immortality for all mankind.

“In the end of the sabbath, as it began to dawn toward the first day of the week, came Mary Magdalene and the other Mary to see the sepulchre.

“And, behold, there was a great earthquake: for the angel of the lord descended from heaven, and came and rolled back the stone from the door, and sat upon it.

“His countenance was like lightning, and his raiment white as snow:

“And for fear of him the keepers did shake, and became as dead men.

“And the angel answered and said unto the women, Fear not ye: for I know that ye seek Jesus, which was crucified.

“He is not here: for he is risen, as he said. Come, see the place where the Lord lay” (Matt. 28:1–6).

“He will swallow up death in victory; and the Lord God will wipe away tears from off all faces” (Isa. 25:8).

* Read the accounts of the Resurrection in the four Gospels and 3 Nephi, and then record your feelings in your journal (see Matt. 28; Mark 16; Luke 24; John 20; 3 Ne. 11).

* “He is Risen!” Hymns, no. 199.

22. As the holidays get busier and busier, we become involved in so many things—running errands, attending parties, buying presents, choosing wrapping paper and ribbons. It’s easy to become focused on material things. Instead, let’s remember where our lives ought to be centered.

“I am the bread of life: he that cometh to me shall never hunger; and he that believeth on me shall never thirst” (John 6:35).

“I am the good shepherd, and know my sheep, and am known of mine” (John 10–14).

“I am the resurrection, and the life: he that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live” (John 11:25).

“I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness” (John 8:12).

* Go look at Christmas lights and think about where all light really comes from.

* “The Lord Is My Shepherd,” Hymns, no. 108.

23. Jesus is no mere figure from the past, captive in the pages of scripture. He lives today! He holds the universe to its course, and guides the work of his servants on the earth.

“And now, after the many testimonies which have been given of him, this is the testimony, last of all, which we give of him: That he lives!

“For we saw him, even on the right hand of God; and we heard the voice bearing record that he is the Only Begotten of the Father—

“That by him, and through him, and of him, the worlds are and were created, and the inhabitants thereof are begotten sons and daughters unto God” (D&C 76:19–20, 22–24).

* Go out with friends singing Christmas carols, but add some hymns about other aspects of Christ’s ministry.

* “I Know That My Redeemer Lives,” Hymns, no. 136.

24. Jesus came to Bethlehem a humble babe, born in poverty. But he has promised to return to earth in majesty.

Then heaven and earth will be reconciled, and the King of Kings will reign.

“For as the lightning cometh out of the east, and shineth even unto the west; so shall also the coming of the Son of man be. …

“And then shall appear the sign of the Son of man in heaven: and then shall all the tribes of the earth mourn, and they shall see the Son of man coming in the clouds of heaven with power and great glory. …

“But of that day and hour knoweth no man, no, not the angels of heaven, but my Father only. …

“Watch therefore: for ye know not what hour your Lord doth come” (Matt. 24:27, 29–30, 36, 42).

* Try to live this day as if it were the day of Christ’s second coming.

* “When He Comes Again,” Children’s Songbook, p. 82.

Only Begotten

25. Jesus was born in the meridian of time, thus giving an ideal vantage point from which to look both backward and forward.

For the last 24 days you have stood, as it were, in Bethlehem, gazing in both directions.

You have heard the Master’s voice in premortal councils. You have seen him suffer, die, and rise again. You have watched him return triumphant in the clouds of heaven.

Now you are ready to focus with greater joy on that moment when heaven came down to earth.

“And it came to pass that I saw the heavens open; and an angel came down and stood before me; and he said unto me: Nephi, what beholdest thou?

“And I said unto him: A virgin, most beautiful and fair above all other virgins. …

“And he said unto me: Behold, the virgin whom thou seest is the mother of the Son of God, after the manner of the flesh.

“And it came to pass that I beheld that she was carried away in the Spirit; and after she had been carried away in the Spirit for the space of a time the angel spake unto me, saying: Look!

“And I looked and beheld the virgin again, bearing a child in her arms.

“And the angel said unto me: Behold the Lamb of God, yea, even the Son of the Eternal Father!” (1 Ne. 11:14–15, 18–21).

“And the angel said unto her, Fear not, Mary: for thou hast found favour with God.

“And, behold, thou shalt conceive in thy womb, and bring forth a son, and shalt call his name JESUS.

“He shall be great, and shall be called the Son of the Highest: …

“Then said Mary unto the angel, How shall this be, seeing I know not a man?

“And the angel answered and said unto her, The Holy Ghost shall come upon thee, and the power of the Highest shall overshadow thee: therefore also that holy thing which shall be born of thee shall be called the Son of God. …

“And Mary said, Behold the handmaid of the Lord; be it unto me according to thy word” (Luke 1:30–32, 34–35, 38).

“And it came to pass in those days, that there went out a decree from Caesar Augustus, that all the world should be taxed. …

“And all went to be taxed, every one into his own city.

“And Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judaea, unto the city of David, which is called Bethlehem; (because he was of the house and lineage of David:)

“To be taxed with Mary his espoused wife, being great with child.

“And so it was, that, while they were there, the days were accomplished that she should be delivered.

“And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn.

“And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night.

“And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid.

“And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.

“For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.

“And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.

“And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying,

“Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.

“And it came to pass, as the angels were gone away from them into heaven, the shepherds said one to another, Let us now go even unto Bethlehem, and see this thing which is come to pass, which the Lord hath made known unto us.

“And they came with haste, and found Mary, and Joseph, and the babe lying in a manger” (Luke 2:1, 3–16).

* Consider what gift you could give the Savior and determine to give it all year long.

* “Joy to the World,” Hymns, no. 201.

The Light

We hope you’ve enjoyed this Christmas pilgrimage through the life of the Savior. If you have, there is still one last gift to open.

Open your LDS edition of the Bible to the Topical Guide and look under “Jesus Christ.” You will find 18 1/2 pages of references!

Christmas may be past, but you can go right on reading about the Savior’s mission.

In fact, what you received here was only a small taste of the scriptural feast available.

The suggested activity for this day and the rest of your life is to read and enjoy the word of God as found in the holy scriptures. Give yourself a gift that fills every day of your life with the real spirit of Christmas.

Photos are gone

2009-02-28T21:55:00.000-08:00

I think I deleted all the pictures from my blog. Wooops. I guess I will just start from here. Such a drag! I guess that's what happens when you don't read everything well enough. Will I learn?

First Friday Friend Fun

2009-02-27T22:29:00.001-08:00

We started a Friday Friend Fun and this was our first. Or friends are Tjans and Barlows. We were missing a couple of the kids because they had better plans. Tomorrow is Trenton's birthday so we turned our fun into a birthday party. They ate pizza, played games, decorated a cupcake, sang happy birthday and ran around the house with guns and swords. It was a great party.

Trenton, 8 is great and so are you! Happy Birthday

and what a mouth you have

Jack Jack

Julia

Josh

Jake

Mason

Sydney

Can't wait til next time!

Teen movie night

2009-02-20T23:22:00.001-08:00

Chance had a movie night with some friends. Turns out everyone that came had a name that started with Br. I thought it was very funny.

Brittni, Braden, Brendan, Brett and Brandon

Bollinger Mother/Son dance

2009-02-20T22:40:00.000-08:00

We had quite a date night! Bollinger school had it's Mom/Son dance and I went with Trenton. We went with Tjans so we made it a double date. We started the night off at McD's then off to the dance.

They made little paper marble things and then raced them

Trenton's friend Tyler

The macarena

The chicken dance

The YMCA

The limbo

The boys hoping to win the rafel. They didn't win.

I love a good Mommy/Trenton night. It couldn't have been any better!

Dallin's 1st dance

2009-02-10T21:50:00.000-08:00

The stake had a 12 and up valentine dance so it was Dallin's 1st youth dance. We had a pre dance party at Reagan's. We all had a great time. One of the games was the boys put in a shoe and the girls picked one of the shoes. She finds the owner of he shoe and they dance. Dallin was in the bathroom so he didn't get to play but he did see Chancellor dancing with his girl and he said she was hot. I think he was a little jealous.

Black Rock Ranch

2009-01-31T20:14:00.000-08:00

The Edgrin's have the most amazing, beautiful getaway spot ever! I should say had. It is being sold. Everyone is so sad. They had a last weekend good bye so we went and it was bitter sweet. It was out first and our last time in this little slice of heaven. It was the same night as Monte and Dallin's snow campout so they didn't get to come. Too bad for them. Chance didn't want to sleep in an igloo and I think he made the right choice.

It is a beautiful house on a beautiful piece on land.

All the kids that joined in the good bye celebration pj party

All the mommies enjoyed the party too

Kristi, Rachel, Lisa, Britt, Annie and Aliciah
The kids loved riding on the mule.

John is a great tour guide. Nice and crazy!

Some of the parents took some of the kids on a hike

Jack Jack lost his shoe

The boys helped the girls over the stream

The parents that didn't go on the hike just hung out

The kids spent the whole day riding some awesome wheels. Trenton thought he loved the 4 wheeler...

that was until he tried the 2 wheeler. He fell totally head over heals in love. He could not get enough. He's a natural!

Chance enjoyed himself and he was a great babysitter.

Trenton and Mason took turns on the different bikes

Jackson loved the quad. Once he got on he didn't want to get off. He also loved the yellow helmet. If anyone else got on he would just stand there and wait for his next turn. He did a great job driving it. It did make me nervous watching him. I had to have Chance follow him because when I did I freaked out at everything he did. Go straight, keep your eyes on the road, slow down etc. He is only 4.

Jackson and Drew would take turns driving each other

The big boys

The little dudes

Thank you Rachel and Brad, we leave with memories we will keep forever. And a love for dirt bikes.

Snow camping

2009-01-31T13:18:00.000-08:00

The scouts went snow camping at Bear Valley. It took them four hours to get there. They started building igloos at 8pm and finally finished at about 1:00 am.

This was a four man igloo. Dallin, Brett Higbee, Gabe Andersen and MJ Reagan all slept in it.

Monte slept in a tent but woke up in the middle of the night freezing so he went and slept in the car with the heater going.

The next day they had fun destroying their creation.

Later everyone went sledding. It was a fun, exhausting day.

Girls Gone Wild

2009-01-25T22:50:00.000-08:00

What could be better then a girls weekend? We went to San Francisco and partied all weekend.

Night #1 we ate at Betelnut

Night #2 we ate at Le Colonial

Both restaurants were great! Nice finds Lisa.
Lisa, Rebecca, Britt, Kristi, Rachel, Annie and Donna (Annies friend from England who was in town for the day)

We ate and talked. Not much sleeping and not much shopping. We did find a great little store we all enjoyed. We had a great time. Learned and loved alot. Thanks girls.

Jack Jack & Alex & DS

2009-01-23T20:36:00.000-08:00

These boys love to get together and play games. DS, WII, XBOX whatever!

Two left feet?

2009-01-20T22:20:00.001-08:00

Something like that. I went to the gym with Annie, did a class then we went to scripture study. We had a good time. I came home cleaned the kitchen because Dallin made dinner while I was gone and then I took off my shoes. I had 2 different shoes on! I felt like Trenton (he likes to wear 2 different shoes). It was very funny. I called Annie to tell her and hear her laugh but she didn't answer the phone. She missed a good one.

Chancellor's stake dance

2009-01-11T23:21:00.000-08:00

I forced Chancellor to go to the stake dance. He went to one before and hated it. A girl he didn't know asked him to dance and he said it was very awkward. We went with the Hinganos, Brandon and met up there with more kids from the ward. I had to keep telling him it would be fun. He didn't believe me at all.

The theme was Castaway so they brought Wilson.

Kristi, Brandon Herring, Jakeen Hingano, Sadie Remington, Rubina Hingano, Loa Hingano, Audrey Mearns, Braden Dunford, Jaerd Hingano
Nolini Hingano, Vose Hingano, Annahfa Hingano, Sara Barnard, Chancellor
Taufa Hingano and some random girl that likes Chancellor's shoes.

Taufa was showing me some steps

Chancellor asked Loa to dance after a little encouragement

Turns out Chance had fun. I knew he would.

Christmas in the Bahamas

2008-12-31T21:49:00.000-08:00

Ho Ho Ho from the Bahamas

A Bahamian Junkanoo costume (it's their big celebration of the year, like Mardi Gras)

One size fits all

Shelby, Dallin, Chancellor, Morgan, Jackson and Trenton

Jackson's ears that only a mother can love and a chest anyone would love

Riding the banana boat

In the background is where "Gilligan's Island" was filmed

All ready to scuba dive

I don't know what we did back in the day before Nintendo

We headed off to Atlantis. It is a very cool resort. The top of the list for us.

Monte and Ted in beenies from Atlantis

The aquarium was awesome. The Manta Ray was the size of a small car.

Conch anyone?

How about a sea cucumber?

Jackson loves starfish

This was predator lagoon with big hammerheads

Chancellor, Shelby, Morgan and Dallin ready for action

Excited to play with the dolphins

Dolphin areal acrobatics

the proud parents document all the action

Thumbs up and ready to go

Kristi, Trenton, Jackson and Mr. Dolphin

Chance, Dallin, Morgan, Shelby and Flipper

That was a funny dolphin joke

"We're perfect for each other!"

Dolphin motor boat

There was lots of fun to be had and many Cheetos to eat

The Bahamians are very tall

Jack Jack's towel fort

In front of the Eagle Ray Lagoon

THE FIRST ANNUAL SLAVENS FAMILY SWIM OFF

OK, so I have officially been humbled. I have been a swimmer my whole life growing up. My claim to fame was getting 2nd in state in the 100 Butterfly my junior year at the Utah state championship meet.

So I still think I'm hot stuff and I always let Chancellor know that and how I could kick his butt swimming. All summer we talked about having a race but it never happened. Chance decided we needed to have a swim off once and for all. I said, "Bring it on, punk!" Monte and Dallin joined in. Monte wasn't a swimmer in high school so I knew I could beat him and of course I could beat Dallin, he's 12. So first we swam a 50 free. I came in last. I couldn't believe it. Then we swam 25 fly. I lost again. Then 25 free; another loss. I actually quit because I knew I had lost and I was very tired.

So it turns out my greatness was all in my mind. I was very depressed and exhausted! So I took the walk of shame to the closing ceremonies and we took this picture.

We lose Jackson (twice)

After 10 or 15 minutes we realized we didn't have Jackson. We had left him at the pool. He was picking me victory flowers and we forgot about him. Monte ran back to get him (I was far too tired) and he was sitting there talking to a girl. Jackson said "I went to get Mom and Morgan a flower then you were gone." Woops!

The next day as we were leaving the park we went through the casino and split up into two groups. After about 10 minutes Monte got outside and realized that Jackson wasn't with him. He ran back to where we split up and Jackson was sitting all alone on a couch with tears in his eyes. Monte asked him if anyone helped him and he said, "No, I just waited for you to come back!" Poor guy. It's tough being the last child.

The lazy river was very fun. It was heated to 85 with rapids, currents, waves, and a conveyor belt to take you to the rides so you don't even have to get out of your tube. Very cool! Jackson especially loved it.

Lazy River Lovers!

We loved the slides. There were 8 big ones and a few little ones. Jackson could only go on the little ones. I was trying to video the kids going down the slide and I heard a little cry. I ignored it because I was busy. A minute later I heard a louder cry "Mommy! Mommy!" I could tell then that it was Jackson. Again I was busy so I sent Mommy #2 Morgan in to save him. Jackson was hanging on the end of the slide crying. Morgan did an excellent job saving him. Thanks Morgan.

Getting ready to head down the Abyss

Merry Christmas!

How great is this!

Happy New Year!

We went to a buffet for New Years Eve. Jackson loved the chocolate fountain. He ate nothing but chocolate marshmallows, cookies, and strawberries.

Chance can find music any where he goes.

Ted and Dallin are dancing fools.

Junkanoo Dancers

We all had a fabulous time!!! We love you Bardusons. Thanks, as always, for all the fun.

Benihana with Barekzias

2008-12-22T07:01:00.000-08:00

The day we left for the Bahamas we went to Benihana (of course) with the Barekzias. It is always fun and delicious. We love Benihana and Barekzias!
The whole gang.

Sabrina, Jen, and Madina

Dallin and Kristi

Chancellor and Spencer Jensen
Spencer is home from BYU for winter break so we made him come along. We always love to have him with us. He is an old friend from when we lived in San Ramon years back the first time. His sister Mindy babysat when Chance and Dallin were small. Spencer would come over and play when Mindy babysat.

Richard and Rohan

Jack Jack and Monte

Ryan and Trenton

Gingerbread house party

2008-12-21T00:26:00.000-08:00

So we had out first annual (I don't like to say that because it sounds too much like a commitment) gingerbread decorating party. Blatters, Barlows, and Larsons came over. I was a little stressed, making popcorn, and getting ready for our trip so I had Monte call to invite everyone so I didn't chicken out. We had a great time and I'm totally glad we did it. It really wasn't totally a gingerbread decorating party. They played alot of legos and playing too.

The kids--(starting with the back row) Dallin, Owen, Chancellor, Sydney, Jackson, Alex, Mady, Andi, Hannah, Mason, Tivoli the dog, Chance, Katie, Jake, Trenton (phew! We each have four with one on the way in the Larson's home!)

The boys--Chris, Monte, Mathew, John

The girls--Kristi, Annie, Lisa, Amanda

(Thanks Annie for already posting so I could copy and paste your list of names. You're awesome!)

Building the perfect gingerbread house it serious work.

The fantastic houses!

They had a great time in the lego room.

Tivoli was very loved.

"Pizza is here!"

Silly Annie. Of course he got more then 1 pizza.

The happy couples.

The golf cart was a hit.

Dallin drove Barlows home and Chris wasn't so sure about it.

We had a great time having you all over. Thanks for being our friends and family. We love you guys. Mark your calendar for next year!

Christmas

2008-12-21T00:00:00.000-08:00

Because we were leaving for the Bahamas and will be there for Christmas we had to send a note to Santa asking him to make a special trip to us early. He came through. Our last day of school was Friday and Friday night Santa came. The boys were very excited.

Even Tivoli got a stocking full of fun.

Before we opened presents Monte read the story about the birth of Jesus from the scriptures.

It didn't take them long to get everything opened. Here are some of their favorites.

This was from Dallin. When I bought the Barbie for the Princess Unicorn I had to buy a 2 pack.
Trenton asked why Dallin gave him that and Dallin said it was just a joke.

Ipod touch and paint ball stuff.

Drum heads and itunes and xbox gift cards.

Dallin is obsessed with Segways. Coming in a close second is getting a golf cart. He mentions one of them nearly every day. Monte finally made his dream come true. I didn't think he would actually get him one. Friday night, our Christmas eve, Dallin's friend Trent called and asked him why there was a trailer in our driveway and a golf cart in his court. We were amazed that Dallin was able to hang out the rest of the night, go to bed, go to sleep, wake up, open presents, all without mentioning this to us. Finally, Monte took him out front and there it was. A shiny, new golf cart! Dallin screamed like a girl and drove it around the neighborhood all day long. I'm sure it won't be long until someone from our homeowners association sends us a letter. I'll go on record the whole thing makes me a little nervous. But they sure are loving it!

All the neighbor kids are loving it too.

Chance's friend Scott and Jeff came over to play too. Our first accident happened when they were driving crazy and Jackson fell off. Dallin didn't think it was fair that I got mad at him because he wasn't driving. I told him it's his and he is responsible for making sure it is safe.
I'm sure he'll do better next time.

We had a great day! Then to top it off later that night we had our gingerbread house party. What a day!

Dallin's Princess Unicorn Barbie

2008-12-19T00:28:00.000-08:00

Dallin loves to watch "the office". He also loves one of his teachers. It is his core teacher, Mrs. Tully. They like to talk about the office and Dallin calls her "best friend Mrs. Tully". On one of the latest episodes the hottest Christmas toy was the Princess Unicorn Barbie (My Horn Can Pierce The Sky!). Dwight bought every doll in the area to punish the parents who wait until the last minute to get their kids gifts. Dallin decided to make this Princess Unicorn Barbie for Mrs. Tully. I had to buy a barbie, he whittled a unicorn horn during tech class, called a friend to find the perfect dress, and he glued on the horn. It was a perfect copy. He gave it to her and she laughed so hard she cried. Dallin is very funny. As you can see he made the white one.

This is the real Princess Unicorn Barbie. Dallin did a great job recreating it.

The Legend

Princess Unicorn is from a distant land on a distant planet far away in the future. She came from her father, king of the unicorns, and her mother, queen of the princesses. Sorcerissa, the evil witch, cast a spell on Princess Unicorn's parents, forcing them into another dimension, and doused Princess Unicorn in radiation. The radiation did not hurt Princess Unicorn, but gave her magical powers. She can summon her magic by holding her wand and calling out, "My horn can pierce the sky!" Now she uses her magic and beauty to write for her school paper, defend her kingdom, and battle Sorcerissa so she can be reunited with her mother and father some day.

Trenton's class holiday party

2008-12-19T00:20:00.000-08:00

I went and helped in Trenton's class for his winter party. You can't call it a Christmas party anymore. It's politically incorrect.

A fun book exchange. They read a story about the Right family and the books went left and right. They loved it.

Made a beautiful bracelet. He gave it to me but I had to
give it back because it was too small.

Very serious decorating his stocking.

Happy Hour at Cheesecake Factory

2008-12-18T00:44:00.000-08:00

We had a girls afternoon out at the Cheesecake Factory for happy hour. We downed lots of appetizers and topped it off with a little cheesecake, you have to. All for under $90!
Kristi, Heather McDougall, Taufa Hingano, Emily Stone, Annie Blatter, and La Reagan.
Good times girls.

Jackson friend fun

2008-12-17T20:44:00.000-08:00

Jackson has been taking gymnastics. He is loving it. Part of it I'm sure is the company! He's in class with his friends Alex Blatter, Drew Edgrin, and Ty Littlefield.

He was at home one day talking about gymnastics and how Miss. Jerry showed them how to do something. I let him know it was Mr. Jerry. Too many ladies in his life I guess.

After gymnastics I took them to Chuck E. Cheese's. They had a great time wasting tokens throwing them into machines.

Love those suicide drinks.

Best pizza in town.

Drew, Alex, Jack Jack, and Ty. Aaarrr matey!

Jack Jack on the counter

2008-12-17T00:34:00.000-08:00

I am always telling him this is not a chair.

Trenon's fieldtrip

2008-12-16T23:14:00.000-08:00

Trenton's class went to Walnut Creek to see "A Christmas Carol". I signed up to go and was lucky enough to have my name picked out of the hat to drive. Looking back now I should have signed up for a fieldtrip in May not the middle of December. I love to go, sure I love to be with my son (which ever one it is) but mostly it's to be able to take pictures. So I ask someone take a picture to capture the special moment Trenton and I are having. Come to find out my battery is still at home charging for this special moment. I hate it when that happens! The nice lady took a picture of us on her phone and emailed it to me. We did have great time and they did a really good job on the show. So I am happy I went and spent the time being hugged by Trenton even if I had not had ended up with a picture.

Trenton your the best!

Jack Jack's question of the day

2008-12-16T08:42:00.000-08:00

Jackson "Mom, what song is this?" He hums a little tune.
Mom "I don't know. What is it?"
Jackson "It's Who Let the Dogs Out, in French."

Oakland Temple

2008-12-14T20:54:00.000-08:00

For our ward christmas activity this year we went to the temple. We had a light potluck, small program, and then went out and sang carols while looking at the temple, nativity and all the lights. It was cold and beautiful.

Got Milk?

2008-12-13T15:09:00.000-08:00

Jackson's winter sing

2008-12-11T08:44:00.000-08:00

Jackson's school had a winter sing. They sang lots of fun songs. It was very cute.
Jack Jack chose to be Frosty the Snowman. He loved it every time that song would come on.
He was sure they were singing about him. I think they were.

The multi cultured class.

Rastafarian Alex, Chinese Drew, and Frosty Jack.

They grow so fast.

2008-12-09T22:23:00.001-08:00

What more can I say?

Tivoli

2008-12-08T18:14:00.000-08:00

We took Tivoli in to get groomed and we picked her up and she looked like this! The boys nearly died of embarrassment and wanted to immediately remove the bow.

We had to take her in for her next grooming. She was so matted they had to shave her. She looks so different Trenton wondered what we should call her now. We now know you have to brush your dog.

Discovery Kingdom Holiday in the Park

2008-12-06T00:02:00.000-08:00

This was out first year going to Holiday in the Park. It was alot of fun. They had snow, fire, Frosty, Santa, a parade, and a big tree.

Fun in the snow.

Who's taller?

Monte like to think he is.

Smelling the tree.

They have matching ears.

When we go to fright fest every year I make the family go to the spooky sea lion show. They are a little tired of it. So of course I made them go to he holiday show. We all cracked up when it was the exact same show just with Christmas costumes instead of Halloween. It's always fun to see Lostin Powers though. You can never get enough of him.

Earlier in the day Dallin made a joke that all fat people should be killed. They went on a ride and when they checked out the picture Dallin looked totally fat. It was so awesome Monte had to get it. That will teach him!

We found some friends from the parade.

We enjoyed the awesome parade and went home.

Jack Jack is a light weight.

Trenton's pulled tooth

2008-11-29T00:44:00.000-08:00

We went to The Old Spaghetti Factory for dinner with Papi and Angie. Trenton has a loose tooth. It's his 3rd. He and Monte had been wiggling it. Monte decided to pull it out. Trenton didn't really like it.

Monte was being mean to me because he thought I was being mean to Trenton by taking pictures of him crying. But I know now the crying and pain is over and we have pictures to remember it. So I don't think I was mean.

In the end it all was ok.

San Francisco with Papi and Angie

2008-11-28T00:46:00.000-08:00

We went to San Francisco to the Exploratoriam. It was fun doing all the different experiments.

Making a big bubble

Making a tornado
Has something to do with perspective

There are gigantic hearing aides. You can hear someone whisper for the other side of the room. It was pretty cool.

Can you lie with a poker face?

This measured your heart rate. Dallin would ask questions to see how it would change. He made me sing a song so I sang Rudolph the Red Nosed Raindeer very loud. He made me stop.

Bad luck here

Trying to figure out the matching scents

Jack Jack that's just gross

Pulling the wish bone from the Thanksgiving feast. Trenton brought it along.

We finished off the night at one of Chancellor's favorite restaurants: Rainforest Cafe.

What a fun day. We love you Papi and Angie. Come anytime.

Thanksgiving

2008-11-27T22:02:00.000-08:00

Papi and Angie came for Thanksgiving. We love when they come visit and not just because Papi is a great cook. We love them.

We spent the weekend playing Guitar Hero. Everyone got into it and had a great time.

Papi gave singing a shot.

Angie was loving the drums.

We had a great lazy weekend. It was alot of fun having Papi and Angie with us.

Turkey Bowl with SR2

2008-11-27T00:01:00.000-08:00

Thanksgiving morning the guys all went at played in the Turkey Bowl with the ward. Papi went as the photographer. He got some pretty sweet shots. Thanks Papi.

Church ball can get a little rough.

Monte took down Brett Higbee like a man.

But he helped him back up.

"Run Monte, Run."

Chancellor and Dallin are ready to run but both are secretly hoping they don't have to.

If you look very close you will see Chancellor running.

Does Monte not see that guy is way bigger then he is?

And so this is what happens when you mess with someone bigger the you are.

People at church were suprised to see the crazy animal side of Monte. It doesn't come out alot but when it does you better watch out!

Banjo Chancellor

2008-11-22T02:14:00.001-08:00

Chancellor is a video game lover. Up 'til about six months ago all he played was Mario type games. He has a great child like nature. He then stepped up and got an Xbox 360. Now he buys M rated games and shoots people. When he was just starting out he had a Nintendo 64 (still has it but now it's Jack Jack playing) and his favorite game was Banjo-Kazooie. So you can imaging his excitement when Xbox announced the arrival of a new Banjo-Kazooie for the 360 and if you special order it you can download the original version onto your 360. He practices very hard. At school they call the him the Banjo-Kazooie master and ask him advice on how to get to the next level. We are very proud of him and his mad skills.

He played for hours and loved it.

Chancellor played Water Polo

2008-11-15T21:14:00.000-08:00

Chancellor is a freshman this year. His friends on our summer swim team told him to play water polo and so he did. He never played before and didn't know anything about it. He'd never even watched a game. He didn't really ever get it totally (neither did I) but he did have a great time. The worst part was he had early morning practice mon, wed, and fri at 5:30am. So he would go to practice 5:30-6:30, shower get picked up by 7, go to seminary, go to school, then practice 3-5 every day after school. Once games started they were 2x a week. It was quite a schedule. He did a great job keeping it all together.

Jacksons hate of shots

2008-11-13T22:12:00.001-08:00

Today the family got flu shots. Lets just say Jackson really doesn't like shots. They are so, so, so stupid! He had to get shots awhile back and that is when we learned of his dislike. Jackson said "That man stabbed me!" He needed more a bit later. The nurse told him if he wouldn't calm down that I would have to leave and she would have to have someone else come in to help. He didn't calm down. I had to lay on him. For 2 weeks he would tell me how he hated shots. He told Lani the babysitter that I said we were going somewhere fun and we didn't. He was mad he got tricked. I didn't say that. I avoided this questions about where were we going and why were we at the doctor.

Rise Against concert 11-7-08

2008-11-08T21:52:00.000-08:00

For Chancellor's birthday I took him and his friends to a concert. It was very fun. A bit of a different crowd then our last concert. It was harder. It was totally crowded. We sat in the back because there were so many people on the floor. One of our favorite moments was when the singer talked a bit about the elections and discrimination and thanked everyone for voting No on prop 8. We all just sat there for a minute feeling a little uncomfortable. We got over it and enjoyed the rest of the show.

Dallin, Kristi, Scott Rodriguez, Brandon Herring, Steven Thayer, Ryan Spalding, and Chancellor.

Opening bands were Gaslight Anthum (which we missed because we were late because of all our football friends), Thrice (a bit hard for me), and Alkaline Trio (they loved).

Mosh pit.

This was about the coolest thing I ever saw. It was just a sea of people and they were all bouncing and swirling around like a vortex. I told the boys they should go in the mosh pit. They did. All but Dallin. He stayed to keep me from going in myself and getting hurt. They stayed in for one song and loved it. They said there were all these big, sweaty, shirtless guys. Chance went to school and told about how he moshed and someone told him 'That's not real moshing. It's not real until someone dies."

The crazy moshers.

Doin' the Rise Against fist pump.

Dallin and Scott enjoying a nice Hero of War moment.

Dallin likes to loose his teeth in unique places. He had 1 baby tooth left so he thought it would be cool to loose it at the concert so he decided to pull it out. He got a paper towel and tugged and pulled and out the bloody baby came.

Trenton's 2nd grade play

2008-11-06T00:22:00.000-08:00

Here is Trenton's 2nd grade musical. It is Mastering Math A Sherlock Holmes Problem Solving Mystery. He was a teacher. He is quite smart looking.

That's some fancy footwork.

Trenton takes a bow.

Nice job Trenton. You were awesome!

Trenton is the Star Attraction

2008-11-02T17:28:00.000-08:00

Birthday party with the Barekzias

2008-11-01T00:45:00.000-07:00

Happy birthday Chancellor, Ryan, Richard and Madina

Madina got a cute pink girl cake

The birthday boys

Ryan and Trenton

Opening the presents

Chancellor very excited about his new game

A game for Ryan too

Perfume and pretties for Madina

Rohan cracked me up. He sat on the counter with eating this huge bowl of Afghan salad. Full of onions, cucumber, tomatoes and cilantro. Something my boys would never do.

Halloween

2008-10-31T23:00:00.000-07:00

Jack Jack Jones, Trenton Fett, Chancellor the walking dead, Dallin Norris and Tinkvoli Bell

Dead man walking

Cutest Indiana Jones ever

Chuck Norris eat your heart out

Tinker Bell beauty

For Halloween we always go over to Rodrigues for their party. We eat and hang out until the kids can't take it anymore then off to get some candy they go.

Jack Jack and Pierce are good buddies

He also loves Pierces brother Breck

We went back to out neighborhood to trick or treat

Trenton is frightened Mason is bored

"Trick or Treat"

"I'm crazy Chancellor, now give me some candy!"

We ran into the Tjans so he hung out with them for a few houses.
Jake, Justin, Julia

Mason, Trenton, Jack Jack, Josh, Julia

BOO!

Ending the night with Dallin's girl Sydney.

Now go eat all your candy!

Trenton's 2nd grade class Halloween party

2008-10-31T22:26:00.000-07:00

Shrek and Donkey went to help out at Trenton's class halloween party. It was fun for Trenton to have Chance there. Chance won't admit it but it was fun for him too.

Chance held the stick with the donuts strung on it that the kids had to eat without using their hands. Trenton was able to get a couple bites.

Dallinbob

2008-10-31T16:55:00.000-07:00

Dallin was Dallinbob for school today. Nice.

Pumpkin Patch

2008-10-31T11:08:00.000-07:00

On Halloween we went to a pumpkin patch. We didn't get one because Barekzias had some. We never did end up carving them. Time flys.
Sabrina, Jackson, Trenton, Ryan, Rohan, Madina, Chancellor and Dallin

Tivoli, Monte, Kristi, Jennifer and Richard

Jacklet

Mini Dallin and Mickey Sabrina

Ryan the Poo

Chancellor found the biggest most expensive pumpkin there. We didn't get it.

Ride em' boys

Richard loves to kick back

It's slide time

Richard and Rohan are the winners! This only hurt Richards back a little bit.

Monte is growing so big

Rohan loved walking the dog

"Anyone for a ride?"

Monte made it all the way around

The kids were not as good as Monte

It was fun at the fair. We love you guys.

Jacksons 1st trip to the dentist

2008-10-29T20:47:00.000-07:00

Jackson had his first trip to the dentist. Dr. Head is our dentist.

Trenton got to be a little helper and hold the spit sucker thing.

Rock On to the dentist!

A trip to Chevys

2008-10-28T20:32:00.000-07:00

We love Chevys. Monte is getting a little sick of it though.

We got these awesome hats.

Jackson has a funny way of wearing his flippers.

Jackson tried soccer

2008-10-27T22:08:00.000-07:00

Jackson tried a soccer class he loved it.

"Soccer!"

Soccer Rocks!

I put this picture on facebook and my friend Trisha Tjan asked if the shirt said "my mom rocks" or "my mom sucks". I'm sure in his break down he we feeling "my mom sucks". He can have some pretty good fits.

Jackson and Trenton raced to the car and Trenton won.

Trunk or Treat with SR2

2008-10-25T00:24:00.000-07:00

Dora the Explorer, Chuck Norris, Boba Fett, Indiana Jones, Flava Flav, and a creepy, bloody guy.
Yeah Boyee! Enjoying Trunk or Treat with our ward.

Alex, Jack Jack, Mason, & Trenton

Mason and Trenton enjoying their treats

Trunk or Treat!

Trent McDougal, Dallin, MJ Reagan

Our off and on adopted family members Mason, Jake, and Hanna

"Trunk or Treat, Boyee!"

Chancellor and Brandon Herring

Panic/Dashboard/Plain White T's/The Cab concert

2008-10-12T17:38:00.000-07:00

I took the boys to this concert in San Jose. We had a great time.

Bradley Spence, Scott Rodriguez, Chance, Dallin, Trent McDougal, and Kristi.

The guitarist for Plain White T's was just walking around the crowd so we got to meet him.

1,2,3,4 is Trenton's favorite.

Stolen is another favorite for Trenton and I. Trenton has stolen my heart. We love to sing this song together. We sound beautiful. I love Dashboard Confessional. Chance thinks they are a little boring but he loved them live. He thought they rocked it with the drums. They were his favorite of the night.

Then Panic. It was very fun.

And Trenton's favorite from Panic is Nine in the Afternoon. When he first heard the song he said "He has really big eyes. They are the size of the moon."

I think I should have taken Trenton. He would have loved it. He really wanted to go. I said too little. So I got all the moments for him that he would have loved.

Jacksons new glasses

2008-10-11T20:59:00.000-07:00

Jackson got glasses. He has an astigmatism on both eyes. The doctor said his sight isn't really bad but the more he wears them the stronger his eyes will develop. I'm not so good at making him wear them all the time. It doesn't make that big of a difference to his sight. I make him wear them when I remember. We want strong eyes.

Chancellor's fieldtrip to Monterey, Cannery Row

2008-10-08T20:03:00.000-07:00

Chancellor's biology class had a fieldtrip to Monterey. In class they read Cannery Row. Now they get to see the real thing. Chancellor wanted me to drive. I like to think he really just enjoys me but I think he just wanted to listen to music and not ride on the bus. What ever his reason I was happy to do it. Except we had to meet at 6am. We took Jackson with us.

Having a water war.

Their assignment was to take pictures with things from the book. Their favorite was the doc's house. They were excited to get to go inside.

My beautiful butterflies.

Chancellor and Brandon Herring.

Chancellor, Jackson, and Brenden Phung.

Jackson and Peirce Buschini.

Everyone loves Forrest Gump.

Magic Mountain Fright Fest

2008-10-04T22:30:00.000-07:00

After our Disneyadventure we went to Magic Mountain for Fright Fest. It is our favorite!
Turns out we happened to pick National Muslim Day. It was really busy.

The boys and Bugs.

I want one of these at home.

Trenton has gone crazy.

Jackson doing some serious wishing.

Rock on moose man.

While the boys when on big rides, the little boys went on some little rides.

Chancellor and Jackson kill time waiting for Trenton to finish on Goliath by playing line rider on Chancellor's iTouch. Chancellor is a little obsessed.

Trenton's big ride on Goliath. He loved it!

We love all the zombies and monsters. Some are friendly some aren't.

Some try to kill you.

Dallin's date for the night.

Trenton loved the monkey. That's what he wants to be now for next year Halloween.
At least for now.

Can you believe this guy is a preschool teacher by day?!

That's quite a scary bunch.

Next year come with us!

Disneyadventure

2008-10-03T21:05:00.000-07:00

We went to Disneyland and some friends from San Ramon were there at the same time.
It was quite a group, 26 altogether. We filled an entire boat on The Pirates of the Carribean.

Jackson hated Tower of Terror.

Our first ever visit to Tom Sawyer's island.

Wicked pirates.

Chancellor and Owen.

A sweet for the sweet.

Carmel apple in the honey tree.

"I can't do it."

Jacksons favorite pose.

We couldn't resist a night Jungle Cruise to finish up the day with the Blatters.

Day 2 we were off to California Adventure.

Jack Jack loves to give Mom beautiful flowers.

We met up with Denise, her sister Tammy, Austin, and Allie. It was fun to see them and play with them for the day.

Austin helping out Jack Jack.

Tomorrow it's Magic Mountain.

Chuck E. Cheese's fun

2008-09-23T00:22:00.000-07:00

Jack Jack and Alex

Chance, Jack Jack, Scott

Dallin is missing

YM/YW A's baseball game

2008-09-16T18:21:00.000-07:00

The young men and young women went to an A's game. Monte, Chance, and Dallin were already going so I decided to crash with the two little boys.

Brandon Herring, Chance, and Braden Dunford

The youth

It was very fun and we ate lots of food. The A's won.

We are going to be famous

2008-09-10T17:27:00.000-07:00

The kids get their pictures taken every year at the same place. This year they used Jackson on their special postcard then they used the whole family for their family special. The kids thought this was way cool.

The Party Bird Clan

2008-09-01T22:11:00.000-07:00

Mom: "What was the point?"
Chance: "No point."

Elite Auto

2008-08-28T22:09:00.000-07:00

Monte and Richard opened a car dealership in Pittsburg. It's called Elite Auto. This is the first car they bought. Sorry, you can't have it, it's already gone. It's going pretty well so far. It's fun bringing home a new car every day. Some cars are better than others.

2008-2009 school pictures

2008-08-26T23:00:00.000-07:00

Chancellor 9th grade.

Dallin 7th grade.

Trenton 2nd grade.

This is the first picture Trenton took. I made him do retakes when I realized he was wearing the same shirt he wore last year for school pictures.

1st day of school year 2008-2009

2008-08-25T22:30:00.000-07:00

This year I'll be going to 4 different schools. I spend alot of time in the car. I don't really carpool because with 4 kids of my own in the car that's a carpool all by itself.

Trenton's 1st day in 2nd grade.

Trenton's teacher is Mrs. Ludwig.

Jackson's 1st day of preschool with his best bud Alex Blatter.

Jackson's teacher is Mrs. Shazi.

Getting a reward at the end of the day.

I forgot all about Chancellor and Dallin. They didn't get pictures. Chancellor is a freshman at California High. Dallin is in 7th grade at Iron Horse Middle.

After school we went to our favorite lunch spot. Benihana's with the Dunfords, friends from church. We celebrated Jackson's 4th birthday.

Trenton, Easton, Jackson

Ashley, Trenton, Easton

Dallin, Derick, Cody

Chancellor, Braden

"Resistance is futile."

2008-08-24T22:15:00.000-07:00

As the Borg say "Resistance is futile." So with that I begin to explore the world of blogging and facebook. I see others' blogs and I feel jealous which is funny because I have a pretty good life. I think they are so clever, their kids say the funniest things, they are so lucky to have started when their kids are all young, they are great photographers, they have such a way with words, they have so many friends, they are so close with their family, they adore their kids, and I'm sure no one needs or wants to see my family's every moment blah, blah, blah. I thought I could turn it into a family affair and have Chancellor do all the story telling which would make me more comfortable. He said no. That means Monte has to do all my editing so if things sound good that means he has done his job. Chancellor and Dalln did help me choose our title though. We were reading about Captain Moroni in The Book of Mormon and he kept saying "my little band of 2000". I thought about my little band of four. They also are all into music and I think soon we will start The Slavens Brothers Band so it works with that as well for when they make it big. This means we can not have any more kids which is the plan. Chancellor is 15, Dallin is 12, Trenton is 7, and Jackson is 4. I am blessed to have them and Monte. Here we go on our adventure. I hope we all enjoy the ride.