Hallman Family

2011-06-27T00:27:00.001-07:00

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Happy Birthday Zac

2011-06-27T00:18:00.000-07:00

I am a few days late...but my baby boy is not so much a baby anymore! Zac Turned 6 on June 23rd! He had a fun day at his favorite Pizza Place "Pappy's Pizza" with the family, and then on Friday we went bowling with the Adams Family, and then home for cake! Happy Birthday Zac...We Love you SO much!

Happy "9th" Birthday Tyler

2011-05-16T21:31:00.000-07:00

Nine years ago today Mr. Tyler Paul Hallman was born! After camping out in the Hospital for 3 weeks we were so anxious and excited to meet him. He has been a JOY ever since! Tyler is best known for his HUGE SMILE and Good Looks(He looks just like his Grandpa Gubler did at his age...Handsome as ever)! We are SO blessed to have such a sweet boy in our family! We LOVE you Tyler!

HaPpY sT. PaTtY's DaY!

2011-03-17T08:06:00.000-07:00

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Time Out For Women...November 5th and 6th 2010

2010-11-08T20:03:00.000-08:00

I had the opportunity to attend Time Out for Women in Portland Oregon. What an Amazing experience.

This free slideshow made with Smilebox

Happy Birthday Madysen!

2010-10-21T10:11:00.000-07:00

We are so lucky to have Madysen as a part of out family! She is a very Happy, Talented and caring "Teenager"...We love you Maddy!

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First day of school...2010/2011!

2010-09-08T10:50:00.000-07:00

So us Bend folks have finally started school. We had a Terrific summer (Hopefully some of the 700 + Pictures we took of our summer come soon)! Madysen is starting 7th grade and will begin Volleyball. Tyler is starting 3rd grade and will be playing Soccer. Zachary is going into Kindergarten. He has waited ALL summer for this. He will also be playing Soccer for the first time. Here are some fun pictures of them on their first day!

Madysen Jane...7th grade

Madysen and Awesome friend Tyson

Tyler Paul...3rd Grade

Zachary Eugene...Kindergarten

Oh my...what am I to do with no kids home for a few hours?

Zac is SO excited to go to this school!

Tyler loves this school!

Happy 4th of July...

2010-07-05T00:25:00.000-07:00

This year we were unable to go to St. George to help put on the "St.George Firework Show" :(. We did have a good time though...we had some families over for dinner then headed down to a park to watch the City Firework show...I must say I am spoiled though. My dad has put on a great show for many many years (which I have only missed 3 of) and I know this show in Bend did not even come close to how Great my dad's are!

After the Fireworks we came home and the kids took over with our own firework show! They had a Terrific time! We must say though...we are grateful for this beautiful country we live in, and thank those Service Men and Women who fight everyday to make it Free! Happy 4th of July!

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Tyler's Baptism

2010-06-25T20:53:00.000-07:00

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Happy Birthday Zac!

2010-06-23T09:27:00.001-07:00

The Perfect "Busy" mom's birthday Party!

Blowing out the "5" candles...

Thanks Friends for coming to my Party!
Eating at McDonalds is always fun!

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Today is Zachary Eugene Hallman's 5th Birthday! Where does time go? Zachary decided to come to our family 2 months early and weighing only 4 pounds. He has been so fun, and usually always happy! He LOVES to be around others and wakes up everyday asking who he is going to play with today. Zachary is very healthy and smart. He completed preschool with the knowledge of recognizing, writing and saying the ABC's. Zachary can also write his first name. He is so excited to go to kindergarten and always asks "How many minutes until I go to Kindergarten"! We love you Zac, and are so blessed to have you in our family!

Tyler Turns 8

2010-05-16T09:20:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday Tyler! It is amazing to think that 8 years ago I sat in a hospital room for 3 long weeks waiting the arrival of our beautiful baby boy! Well now he has reached a huge milestone where he can now/finally be a "Cub Scout" and choose to be baptized a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. We are so proud of Tyler. He is such a fun boy to be around. He has a smile that is unforgettable, and gets so many compliments that he is always smiling. Tyler cares about others, and wants to be friends with everyone. Tyler mom and day love you very much, and so do Maddy and Zac. We are SO glad you are part of our family!

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Happy Halloween Everyone!

2009-10-31T21:29:00.001-07:00

Madysen...Raw, Raw, UTES!

Tyler...Go UTES

Zac...Go UTES

Everyone loved our Football Team!

Mom and Dad went as the Ref's...Are we not always a Ref?

Pumpkin Carving with a few friends

Oh, how they love me with the Camera

Fun night with friends, pumpkins, and treats!

Madysen Jane Hallman...Born October 21 1997

2009-10-21T16:18:00.000-07:00

Age 12

Happy Birthday Madysen Jane

Loving~Kind~Always Smiling~Helpful~Full of Life~Compassionate~Softball Star~Bike Lover~Great Babysitter~Terrific Artist~Loves her Brothers~Straight A+ Student~Basketball Star~Loves Fishing/Camping~Always Happy~Great Helper around the House~Caring~Loves the Outdoors~Loves Everyone~Loves Computer Games~Beautiful~Respectful~Loves Hugs~Smart~Loves Friends~Animal Lover (even with allergies)~Smiles all the time~Volleyball Star~Always Thinks of Others~Terrific Dishwasher~Loves to Read~Great Trumpet Player~Loves her Heavenly Father~Awesome Testimony of the Church~A Friend to everyone~

There are so many words/things to describe our darling Madysen! She is a joy to be in our home. Our lives would just not be the same without her! We hope she has a great birthday! Madysen is so excited to turn 12 and become a "Young Women" in our Church!

We Love you Madysen!

4 Months old

7 Months old...Still Smiling

9 Months old...Loves the Outdoors

1 year old...Smiling always

3 years...Has Always loved the Camera

4 Years...Same Big Smile

30 Days, over 2100 miles, and through 5 States...Our summer vacation was the BEST!

2009-09-02T21:25:00.000-07:00

Over 2100 Miles * Through 5 States * Visiting 8 Cities * One Mini Van * Air Plane (lucky Dad) * Four-Wheeler * Boat * Tractor (thanks for the ride Uncle Mark)*Hotel in Burley Idaho with Grandma and Grandpa Hallman * Staying at the Grandparents house * Watching a Softball Game * Staying at mom and dads house * Visiting Friends and Family * Tram through Zions * Train * Bus * Swimming in 8 different pools * Skiing at Sand Hollow * Many Splash Pads * Riding Four-Wheelers * Hiking Zions National Park * Watching the Best Firework show EVER (for this year anyways) * Lunch and Dinner Dates with High School BFF's * Turtle Museum * Glow in the Dark Mini Golf * Laser Tag * The Play Annie at Tuacahn * Seeing a movie for moms Birthday * Playing Ladder Golf * Spending time at the Cabin * Staying with John, Tricia, Teresa and Elise in Aptos CA * Lots of Lunch and Dinner Dates with Family and Friends * Staying with Greg, Shell, Angelica, Dom, and Nico in Mountain View CA * Visiting our old LDS Ward in Los Altos * BBQ's * Bowling with friends * Swimming (lots and lots) * Train and bus ride to SF * Watching the Street performers in SF (the kids loved this) * Date night for JC and I at Red Lobster with all of our Best California Friends * Building Sand Castles at New Brighten Beach *

Whew...we sure did a lot, and I am sure I am missing so much more! The best part of all of this is seeing and visiting with all of our Family and Friends! We love you all and miss all of you soooo Much! Thank you so much for making our 30 day, 2100 mile, through 5 States...Summer Vacation SO Fun!
(It was hard to pick just a few pictures out of the 550+ pictures I took...So scroll down and see how much fun we had, It is pretty much in order from day 1 to day 30)

Watching Cousin Kinzie in her Softball Tournament in Orem

Karson and Zac loving the Splash Pad in Orem

Cousin Malloree and Madysen at Grandma Lynda's House

The Kids LOVED the Four-Wheeler rides from Grandma Lynda

Visiting Laura and her Family...We Sure miss you guys!

It didn't matter that a year has gone by since we have seen the Gourley's...The kids had a Blast!

Visiting the Moench girls in SLC...We really miss you!

Aubri...I miss you! Thanks for the "Catch-Up"

Grandma Jane took all the grand kids to a Desert Museum. They absolutely LOVED the Turtle!

Bus ride into Zions with the D'Augusta Family...So Much Fun!

We hiked the Emerald Pools...The "pools" are no longer there (like I remember when I was young), but there is still water coming from the rocks!

Angelica and Madysen loved getting wet!

D'Augusta Family + Hallman Family= Fun!

The Guys getting ready for the Best Fireworks in the World!

This was the Best place to watch the BEST Firework show EVER! The kids were Mesmerized!

Girls night out...Dinner at the PF before the Play "Annie" !

Love those "Cut-out" Picture Boards! Madysen with Cousins and Friends!

Waiting for the Show to start...

These Girls loved the play (so did I)! Thanks Grandma Jane for the Fabulous night!

Visiting Grandpa McMullin...We Love you!

Riding Grandpa's Four-Wheeler at the Cabin in Pine Valley!

Zac is all ready to go on Grandpa's Boat!

We are ready to ride the tube!

Madysen LOVED to knee board...and even Skied barefoot (didn't get picture of that, went to fast)!

Look Closely...Grandma Jane's Famous "Glowing" toenails...At the Glow-in-the-Dark Mini Golf!

Karson, Zac, and Tyler...taking a break for a picture of the cool scenery.

Maddy, Jess, and Kinz...Cute, Cute, Cute!

Zac loved Golfing, once he figured it out!

Madysen and Teresa in Aptos California...

These girls loved to swim...Teresa, Elise, and Madysen

Thanks so much for letting us stay with you for a few days! We sure do miss you!

Tyler got to go bowling with one of his best buds...Nate! They had a Blast!

Asay kids and the Hallman kids! Thanks Janet for getting together with us!

Train ride up to San Fran. The kids loved sitting up on the top level (moms got a break down below)!

This was our very first Train Ride ever! So much fun!

We ate lunch in San Francisco at the Rain Forest Cafe...I love the Scenery!

The food was great too...right boys?

We had 14 kids to 4 moms...do you think we were crazy? Actually the kids were great and we had Fun!

We sure miss the Bay Area! Thanks friends for spending the day with us in the City!

Zac loved the Beach...We spent our last day in Cali at New Brighton Beach with LOTS of Friends!

Dig, Dig, Dig...

Madysen spent the most time building a very cool castle!

Tyler loved to have the water chase him!

Look at our Castle!

Look at those Waves...

The Moms and the "Smore" Factory! We had a bon-fire and the kids put together Smores...Yum

Best of Friends

Two Silly and very imaginative Boys

Best of Buds...

A Great Lady...My Aunt Doris!

2009-08-31T14:21:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, Sunday August 30th at 11:00 pm was the day one of my favorite Aunts "Aunt Doris" (my dads sister) returned to our Heavenly Father. She was a very strong women through her battle with cancer. I have many fun memories of my Aunt and her family, as do my children! A few of these memories include...Visiting her in Ogden Utah when we were very young. She introduced us to "Curly Noodle" soup (Ramen) and Kool Aid with two different flavors mixed together. To this day I remember that being the best Kool Aid ever (I only wish I knew what flavors they were)! Another memory was shortly after I received my drivers license I was lucky enough to drive 3 of my best friends up to Ogden for a State Basketball Game. On the way I was pulled over and was issued my very first "Speeding" ticket. I was so scared to tell my parents so when we got to Aunt Doris' house I talked her into calling my dad and breaking the news to him! What a great Aunt! We also remember feeding her horses carrots and apples, and getting to ride the horses! Madysen especially loved this part! I was excited when Aunt Doris and Uncle Rex moved down to St. George so we could visit them more! Every time we would visit St. George we had to go see Aunt Doris! My Aunt Doris was a Beautiful Lady and she will be missed so much! We take great comfort in knowing that Aunt Doris was greeted in heaven by her mother and father "Grandma and Grandpa Gubler" and her son Cameron! We love you Aunt Doris!

This is what we do in 100 Degree Weather

2009-08-01T16:02:00.000-07:00

While the kids and I were on our "month" long Vacation Jess built the kids this "Park" in our back yard! They have loved it. He did a great job, Thanks Dad!

Stay tuned for an update on our Vacation. I took 566 pictures so it might take me awhile to sort through them! I will get them on here soon!

Thanks Dad...We love the "Park" (as Zac calls it)!

Madysen is going to get REALLY Wet!

Zac Loves it...

Tyler Loves the Water...

Weee

Our Little Zachary is 4!

2009-06-23T10:16:00.000-07:00

Is is amazing to think that 4 years ago we were rushed into the operating room to deliver our 2 month "premature" baby boy (it seems like yesterday)! He is definitely our "Miracle" baby! Other than having a Clogged Tear duct for the first two years of his life he has been perfect. He is a very energetic and curious "big" boy who absolutely loves Madysen and Tyler. Where ever they go, or whatever they do he is there doing it right along side of them. Cars are his passion, and has just started getting into "Star wars". He loves to be surrounded by people, especially his friends! Zac, we are so lucky and proud to have you in our family!

Happy Birthday and WE LOVE YOU!

(refresh screen to see slide show from beginning)

Quick Trip to California for 5th Grade Graduation!

2009-06-22T14:13:00.000-07:00

Madysen is such a LUCKY girl...With the help of our Great friend Shell, Madysen was able to attend and participate in Bubb Elementary's 5th Grade Commencement. Because Madysen has had a hard time with this move I thought it might be a good way to close out the school year and start a new one here in Bend. The kids and I got up at 3:00 in the morning on Wednesday the 10th and drove 10 hours straight to California. When we reached Mountain View we SURPRISED the D'Augusta Kids(being best friends and not seeing each other for 8 months has been hard)! Seeing their reactions made it worth the trip! For 4 days we played hard. It was really hard to leave! Thanks California Friends for being SO good to us!

Another Great School year...

2009-06-21T13:30:00.000-07:00

We were lucky to have not just "3" Great Teachers this year, but "8"! I am a Strong believer that a Great Teacher makes for a Great School Year! We had Wonderful teachers in California (first 3 months) and here in Oregon! We are very thankful for all of their hard work!

California Teachers...

Mr. Poling~5th Grade

Mr. Jonathan~1st Grade

Miss. Jenna~1st preschool

Miss Mary~2nd Preschool

Miss Tamara~2nd Preschool

Oregon teachers...

Mrs. Linn~5th Grade

Mrs. Noll~1st Grade

Miss Debi~Preschool

Happy Fathers Day...

2009-06-21T13:04:00.000-07:00

Happy Fathers day Jess! Thanks for being a GREAT dad to Madysen, Tyler and Zac! We love you! We are also very blessed to have two very GREAT Fathers and Terrific Grandfathers! Thanks Dad and Dad H for all you do for us! We Love you!

~The kids gave their dad a "Fire-Pit"~

Grandpa Gubler~~We Love You!

Grandpa Hallman~~We Love You!

This - N - That

2009-06-02T11:10:00.000-07:00

We have done some fun stuff these last couple of months...With a trip to the "Big" City and the Zoo (the REAL Zoo), 2 Birthday's,and Baseball and Softball we have kept busy. In April I celebrated my 36th (Whoa, almost 40) birthday in the Big City! It was so fun to see the Freeways and Escalator's again :)! We drove to Portland and somehow ended up at the Mall. The kids (including myself)have never been so excited to see an Escalator! We didn't even buy much, it was just so fun to walk around a REAL Mall (yes I know...someday I will get over the fact that Bend does not have a REAL Mall). Later that afternoon we met up with some friends to go to the Zoo. Between the two families we had 5 boys and 1 girl (Madysen is always the only girl these days). It felt like we had our own Zoo within the Zoo. After the Zoo we searched for a Chili's Restaurant (my Favorite) to eat at for my "Birthday Dinner" (Thanks Marino's for driving so far just to eat at my Favorite place)! Then we went back to the hotel and the kids went swimming. The next day we were able to see and attend the Portland LDS Temple. What a beautiful building. It seems that every new temple I visit becomes my favorite, I guess because they all are so Beautiful. This weekend was a great one, and I was able to get my "Big City" fix! Can't wait for Summer to get another Fix in California.

Tyler celebrated his 7th birthday in May! It was his year to have a huge Birthday Party with friends but he had so much fun in the hotel in Portland that he decided to skip the friend party and choose to stay in a hotel with a pool! We stayed at a local hotel that was very nice. We ate at Red Robyn and then went back to the hotel to swim, swim, swim... we invited two families to join us in swimming and the kids had a blast. They were all wrinkled by the time they were done! That was the easiest birthday party I have ever done...and it cost the same as if I were to plan one with friends! I didn't want him to miss out on the Cake, so on Sunday we invited the same 2 families over for Cake and Ice cream! Thanks to the Marino's and the Kerr's for helping make Tyler's Birthday so fun! Also, thanks to the Grandparents for such fun Gifts!

Madysen and Tyler are both playing ball! It has been a fun season (however Jess is regreting not coaching), yet busy! We have had some of the games and practices overlap. Madysen is doing so well at Softball! Although she is one of the smallest on her team, she is one of the Best. She has figured out that she enjoys batting both Left and Right handed and is Great at either. Tyler is getting the hang of Baseball. He still needs to work on his hitting, but for the most part does pretty well. He has gotten to Pitch in a couple of games and absolutely loves it. His face LIGHTS up when he is on that mound! As for Zac...Soon he too will get to play ball!

Here is what you all have been waiting for...

2009-04-21T10:18:00.001-07:00

The Hallman's have moved into their VERY OWN home! We are so blessed to be able to buy a home, especially in this market (thanks Jess for working so hard and loving your job). We have had a great time getting all settled, finding places for things and being able to decorate our own home! As of now we are pretty much settled. Jess finished his shelf's in the Garage and we can now fit both vehicles in them (a little snug but they both fit). With the weather warming up we are now hoping to get our "Dead" grass growing again. Because this house had been sitting for two years the lawn is pretty much gone. We hope to revive it, but hey it is just great to have a yard after 6 years of no yard. So let me tell you a funny thing Zac said on Sunday...we were checking to see if all the sprinklers were working so Jess had them going. Zac came outside and said "Mom, what are you doing with the Flying Water". I did not realize that he did not know what "sprinklers" were. I guess he had never seen them, because in Cali our apartment did not have them, and we didn't go to the parks when they were on, and when we visit St. George my dad would water in the early mornings.

Anyways...enjoy the pictures of our new house! Oh, and we have a Bedroom and Full bathroom just for you, so PLEASE come and visit! Also scroll down because I put two other posts on today...

Our Easter Celebration

2009-04-21T09:27:00.000-07:00

So once again we have been pretty busy...Our Easter was really fun! Although we would rather have spent it with Grandparents and Cousins we have found our own little family here in Bend to spend it with. We started the season off with a Party at our house ( I love to have parties). We originally invited 31 families (don't want to leave anyone out) but only about 10 of them and 2 missionaries were able to come (we had over 40 people here). We had Hamburgers and Hot dogs and Jess' FAMOUS Dutch Oven Potatoes (People in Cali loved them, and now people in Bend love them). We also had an Easter Egg Hunt for the kids. The kids had a blast. We finished off the night with some "Guitar Hero" with one of the families that stayed after to help clean up!

We also were lucky to have our great friends the Jacobsen's from California come and be our first Guests to stay in our new house! They decided to come and spend Easter in Bend. Rachel has family here so she came to see us both. We were glad they came and stayed at our house. The kids were SO excited to see some great friends.

The Easter Bunny found us on Easter morning and showered the kids with fun gifts. They also received packages in the mail from both grandparents! Thanks for that. After Church we went to our friends the Marino's for a Yummy Ham meal. We hope you all had a great Easter Season. Now aren't we all ready for SPRING?

Our Puppy Angel

2009-04-21T09:18:00.000-07:00

Angel...Born January 2009

Angel...Our new puppy!

He loves the kids, and the kids love him!

Madysen and Tyler have done a Great job in taking care of him!

We went up in the mountains this last weekend and it was his first experience riding in the back of the truck...We do know he gets a little car sick.

A Busy Couple of Weeks...

2009-04-01T11:33:00.000-07:00

It has been a busy couple of weeks! We are finally moved into our OWN new home with our new Puppy Angel (yes Jess surprised us, or just me with a puppy)! Most everything is unpacked. The Garage is still in need of Organizing and the pictures need to be hung but other than that everything is out of boxes! I will post pictures of the house and Puppy soon!

As for the other things we have done...

First: Grandma and Grandpa Gubler came to visit and to see were we live. It was fun to have them here. We showed them around Bend and took them to the "Working Wonders Children's Museum". Zac and Grandma also had a blast playing Cars and boxing on the WII.

Working Wonders Store...Grandma as the Cashier

She has always wanted to be a cashier!

Grandpa, Dad and Madysen building the Huge Lincoln Log house. They built it and then it got knocked down!
Zachary in the house they built with his sign!

Zachary wants to be a Crossing Guard when he grows up! He wore the vest and carried the sign around almost the whole time we were there!
Boxing...Wow do your arms ache the next day!

Second: St. Patrick's day arrived and the Leprechaun found us. Each year the silly Leprechaun leaves us a trail of gold and goodies to a larger prize. This year was no different. He left them pencils, Clover shaped Straws, and a Movie. Oh, and Thanks Grandma and Grandpa Hallman for the fun St. Patrick's day package! We hope you had a great St. Patrick's day!

We followed the gold and found the Treasure!
We hope you all had a great St. Patrick's Day!

Thanks Grandma and Grandpa for the fun "clover" ears!Our "Green" St. Patrick's Day Dinner!

Consisted of...Green Jell-O, Green Punch, and green Cupcakes!

Third: After taking our entire Spring Break to Clean a new house, Move, and then Clean the Rental house I felt the kids needed something fun to do! We decided to take Saturday and have fun! We went to the local "Fun Center" and went Bowling and rode the bumper cars. That was a great ending to a very busy week!

In Memory of Shadow...October 1996 to March 2009

2009-03-05T13:18:00.000-08:00

On March 4th 2009 our dog of 12 1/2 years returned to heaven to be with his brother Sinbad(who died a few years ago of Cancer in the Mouth). Even though for many many years he was being taken care of by Grandma and Grandpa Hallman (we were planning to have grandma and grandpa bring him back to live with us now that we are buying a home) we will miss him dearly.

Now let me tell you how we came about getting Shadow...One October day in 1996 Jess called me at work and said he had found an Ad in the paper for puppies. The cost was only $10. If you know me at all you know I am not a dog person (animal person for that matter), but I knew Jess wanted a dog really bad. So after I made sure it would only be $10 I said ok. He went right over after work to get shadow. There were 2 puppies left when he got there. Now you could clearly see that Shadow was the runt of the two, but for some reason this was the one Jess fell in love with (they are lab and basset mix ~ use your imagination). When the owner of the puppies went to get Shadow both puppies hid under the couch and would not come out. After getting Shadow home we came to the conclusion that these little puppies had been abused. Not that he looked injured but that every time we made sudden movements or picked up the newspaper he would flinch and then run and hide. That night he was in our dark closet and Jess turned on the light, and Shadow jumped back. We're not sure but we think he saw his shadow and got scared. So that is how he got his name..."Shadow". After realizing that it was possible that these poor dogs were being abused we didn't want to leave the last little puppy there. We called around (because 1 dog was definitely enough for me) to family asking if anyone wanted a cute puppy. My sister's decided they wanted him so we went back and got "Sinbad". We had both dogs for a while until we were able to get Sinbad down to St. George. Shadow was a great dog (other than eating my boot while I was pregnant with Maddy ~ use your imagination on how that went over as well). Shadow loved kids, especially Madysen. Madysen was the one he grew up with so they were very attached. When ever we visited Utah the kids would go right for him and play. It was as if they had never been apart.

We need to Thank Thank Thank Grandma and Grandpa Hallman for loving and taking care of Shadow while we couldn't. We know that he was just as much your dog as he was ours (if not more)!

We will miss you Shadow!

Finally...Our Valentine's Day Activities

2009-02-25T15:05:00.000-08:00

So yes...I have been wanting to post our Valentine's Day for a while but I have had too much fun with the "Facebook" thing, and would rather be playing on Facebook then blogging at the moment.

Anyways...we did have a great Valentine's Day. We started off the weekend with a very fun Couples party at our house. I figured since we just moved here this would be the Perfect way to get to know and meet new friends. Lets just say we (along with 9 other couples) had a blast! We had Fondue and we played my famous "Not-so-Newlywed" game. We made some great friends and I think it was a great start to me getting into this new town. Oh, I can't forget to Thank Madysen for doing such a Great job keeping the boys upstairs throughout the ENTIRE party. She was payed well with "Erasers" instead of money (at her request)!

The kids woke up to some fun Valentine's Gifts from Cupid. Madagascar 2, among books for each of them was their gift. That evening after Madysen's Basketball game we went to our friends house and ate "Heart" shaped pizza's, after which we all came back to our house for some games, WII, and dessert. Thanks Marino Family for a great time!

Since Monday was a Holiday Jess and I left Madysen home with the boys and we went to the movie Taken. After that movie we took the kids along with the Marino Family to the $ movies which was playing Tales of Desparaux. The fun thing about this movie theatre is that you sit on couches and can order a wide variety of food to eat during the movie. We had a great time (pictures taken from camera phone, so they are not the best Quality). We then ended the day with dinner at our favorite restaurant in Bend..."The Black Bear Diner"!

We hope you all had a great Valentine's day! Thank-you to the Grandma's and Grandpa's who sent us Valentines Packages...The kids loved them (and so did we)! We Love You!

December Update...Volume 3

2009-01-23T10:21:00.001-08:00

So as you can see we had a Great Holiday! Our trip to Utah was so fun, and I can honestly say we did not sit around...From visiting family we don't see often, Playing games with Grandparents, Hiking the Red hills of "Dixie", Playing at the "Jumping Jacks" jump house with cousins, Playing on the School Playground with Grandma, Eating out at our Favorite Restaurants, Preparing for and watching the Fireworks, Watching the Amazing University of Utah football team win their Bowl Game, and just having a great old time with family! Thanks everyone for making our Christmas break so fun! We love you all!

December Update...Volume 2

2009-01-15T12:26:00.000-08:00

So we had a GREAT Christmas! We stayed in Oregon for Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. We invited our Friends the Marino's over for a yummy Christmas Eve dinner and Program. After playing the Present game (a tradition in my family for many many years) we read the Christmas story out of the Bible.

Christmas morning we awoke to find that Santa had "redecorated" our tree with Wii items! Yes we also received a Wii (a gift I have heard many received)! The kids had a great time opening presents! They also went outside to find that the reindeer had eaten all of the reindeer food that Tyler had sprinkled in the snow (we know this because they left Tracks and the food was gone!). Ever since I can remember we would lay all of our presents out on our bed and take a picture, so in the slide show you will see the kids and their toys!

The original plan was for us to hurry and open presents and then hop in the car for a 14 hour drive to Utah to spend the rest of our Break. But as it snowed and snowed all day on Christmas Eve day we decided to just spend the $ and buy plane tickets...I must say money WELL spent! After a relaxing day of playing with our toys and the Wii we hopped on a plane and arrived in Vegas about 3 hours later with my mom and dad there excited to see us! Thanks mom and dad for picking us up!

December Update...Volume 1

2009-01-15T11:35:00.001-08:00

So we had a great time over the Christmas Break...We started it off with a fun day (in a blizzard) of Sledding with our new friends the Marino's. On Christmas Eve Day they took us up the mountain a ways to a huge hill that is for Sledding. It was snowing so hard but that did not stop Jess, Tyler and Madysen from spending two hours on the hill. Zac and I watched them climb the mountain several times and enjoying the ride down. I still need to purchase me some snow pants so I can enjoy the snow. My legs were sooo cold and wet from just sitting out in the snow. Thanks to Lori who thought to bring an umbrella...We were somewhat sheltered from the snow.

The other snow pictures are at my Grandpa's Cabin in Pine Valley UT. We had a great time with grandma and grandpa and cousins! The kids had a blast riding on sleds tied to four-wheelers around the snow packed streets.

Below is a slide show of our Snow fun...More fun pictures of our break to come soon!

It's Great to visit with old Friends!

2009-01-07T19:33:00.000-08:00

So one of the many fun things we did while we were in St. George was get together with both mine and Jess' high school friends and their Spouse's(some we havn't seen for many years, way to long). We were lucky to get to go out 2 nights in a row for dinner with them. It was so fun to see them and chat like we had never been apart! Thanks guys for a wonderful night(s)! Oh, and I can't forget to Thank my mom and dad for babysitting the kids 2 nights in a row so we could go out! We are so lucky to have friends like each of you!

Jess' Buddies
Colby ~ Jess ~ Paul...It was so Great to see you guys!

My BFF'S
Kristi ~ Brette ~ Me ~ Jennifer...I loved getting together! Can't wait until the summer to get together again!

The REAL snow fall of the year!

2008-12-12T21:27:00.000-08:00

We are all in Heaven!

Hey...No throwing snowballs at the MOM!

Getting creative...using a tote for a sled (didn't really work)
Jess also having fun!
Sledding down the hill on a Tote Lid...Another creative idea for a sled that still didn't work. Looks like we need to purchase a real sled!

It's FREEZING, It's DARK, but they are still playing in the snow!

Tyler is LOVIN this!Madysen is LOVIN this!Zac is LOVIN this!

Is it Snow or is it Frost?

2008-12-09T10:17:00.000-08:00

Ever since we have been here in Bend the kids have been patiently waiting for the snow to fall. Apparently we should have already had snow by now. Well the Hallman family is not used to snow. We moved to California when Tyler was 5 months old so Madysen is really the only one who has truly experienced the COLD white stuff...

So every morning Tyler looks out the window to see if it snowed during the night. Well Monday morning was no different...he looked out and sees white (more white than a normal morning)covering the entire lawn. It certainly looked like snow...or was it just a heavy frost. The kids did not care. They hurried to get ready for school, bundled up (thanks Shell for the Mittens), and went outside to play. They didn't care if there wasn't enough to build a snow man, they did however figure out how to throw it at each other. For their sake (not mine) I hope the 50% chance of snow for this Saturday comes true. They have certainly waited for it!

Brr... it sure is cold out there! We hope you all are staying Warm!

Only in Bend would you find Llamas in the Christmas Parade...

2008-12-09T09:30:00.000-08:00

So this last weekend our city had a Christmas parade. Jess now being involved in the Rotary Club was helping with their float (or truck). He took Madysen and they both got to ride in the parade. The boys and I got there early and found our seats on the Curb of downtown Bend. The parade was fun. It reminded me of the many parades I was in when I was a child. So we have figured out that living in Bend you must have a dog...or a horse! In the parade there were as Zac would say it "so many little dogs and big horses". But to our surprise there were even "Llamas" in the parade. They also have "Chevy Club"! Dad, you would love this! You and mom should come and live here...your Chevy's would fit right in, and this town does have a "little" St. George Feel!

~Merry Christmas~

Tyler and Zac At the Bend Christmas Parade

Tyler and Zac playing Frisbee in the street waiting for the parade to start!

Ooh, pretty Llama...

Dad, you should bring your old Chevy's and be in the "Chevy" Club...

Waving...It's what you do at Parades

Madysen on Rotary Club Float...look closely and you can see Jess

Madysen with Smokey the Bear

Remembering the Memories in Mountain View...Making New Memories in Bend!

2008-12-01T22:23:00.000-08:00

Ok, one more time...Thanks so much for all of the fun times we had in California. Each one of you have left deep impressions on our family. Please know that you are Loved, Appreciated and very truly MISSED!!! We love and miss you!

Utah Utes Rule....

2008-11-22T18:40:00.000-08:00

48-24

The Hallman's wearing Red...need we say more?

Zachary Chanting "Go BYU" (not kidding) So Tyler is taking care of it...

(we normally don't allow violence)

Thats better...Everyone say "Boo Hoo BYU"!!

Maddy's "Libby Lu" Birthday Present from Angelica

2008-11-19T18:50:00.000-08:00

For Madysen's birthday Angelica and her mom organized a "Girls Night / Make over" for Madysen. The night before we took off to Oregon we drove 45 minutes to our Girls Night out. We stayed in a nice hotel room, went to dinner, the mall to purchase matching outfits and erasers for the girls, and then stayed up late talking and watching a show. The next morning we checked the girls into Libby Lu's for their Princess Makeovers! They had a blast. Being a little older they were a little more reserved with the hairstyles, but in the end they both looked like Models! It was so fun (and a much needed get~away for me)! We are so lucky to have such great friends who think of these fun trips. Thanks so much Shell and Angelica for making an already emotional weekend so fun!

Playing with our Newly purchased Erasers in the hotel room...

Getting our Nails done first...

Then comes the Make-up...

Then the Fancy Hair~do...

What a beautiful Girl...

Best Friends Forever...Thanks so much Angelica, We Love You!!

We had a "Spooktacular" Halloween...

2008-11-02T20:18:00.000-08:00

Halloween for the Hallman's this year was very fun. Madysen and Tyler decided to g0 as Harry Potter characters. Madysen was Hermione and Tyler as Harry Potter. Jess took a break from packing to braid Madysen's hair in little tiny braids (you can tell he did many of his sister's hair growing up) so she would have frizzy hair to fit the character. They both looked wonderful, and Tyler so smart in those glasses!! Zac went a a Pirate this year. It is a good thing I did not spend much on his costume because he did not want to wear it. Below is a slide show of our day. I forgot my camera during the "Trick-or-Treating" so I did not get any of these. We hope you all had a great day as well!!

We will miss our Friends in California...

2008-11-02T18:05:00.000-08:00

We have spent the last 6 years here in Mountain View California. Because of this we have made some GREAT friendships. Last Sunday Jess and I (well OK, mostly I) decided to plan one last "Farewell" dinner to thank these wonderful friends. We invited 7 families to dinner. We had a total of 41 people (mostly kids) in our apartment. It was a little crazy but so much fun!!! Thank you so much for your friendships, I hope that we can stay in touch!

I have Bragging Rights...

2008-10-31T09:05:00.000-07:00

OK, so setting aside the packing (well OK ~ the first brag) Jess has pretty much packed up the entire house. What a guy!

So my real bragging is about Madysen...So about six months ago she joined a Local Cheer team with her Bff Angelica. She had never even done a cartwheel. At first Madysen was a little frustrated but with much practice and fun her team went to their first (and only for Madysen) competition. They placed first and were eligible for Nationals. Madysen did a great job and her cartwheels and pyramids are PERFECT! Below are a few pictures...

So another brag is on the Academic side...Madysen's grade this year are required to know and pass a States and Capitals test. The first test was to be on the first ten states and capitals. The kids were given the choice to take just the first ten, or to take a test with all FIFTY(if they got 100% they would not have to take anymore tests)! For about 4 days Madysen Studied, we quizzed her tons, studied some more. Last Friday was the day of the test. She was determined to take the test with all fifty states and capitals. We were excited to get her paper back with a VERRY LARGE 100% on it (and not just one large 100%, but many)! Way to go Madysen!!!! We are not sure where she got her brains... ;-)

Our Beautiful "little" girl is not so "little" anymore, but even more Beautiful!

2008-10-27T18:13:00.000-07:00

"High School Musical 3" party decorations...$15.00

Goody bags to sneak into the theatre...$10.00

Party Favors...$5.00

Movie tickets for 8 Tweens and 1 adult to High School Musical 3 opening day...$65.50

Celebrating Madysen's 11th birthday with her BEST friends(it is going to be soo hard for her to move)...PRICELESS

Thanks so much for everyone who made Madysen's Birthday this year GREAT!

Hallman's on the Move...

2008-10-20T16:23:00.000-07:00

Well we are at it again. After being in Sunny California for EXACTLY 6 years we have decided to move again. Jess' job has transferred him to Bend Oregon. We have heard a lot of great things about this town. We are going to really miss the people here. We have made so many great friends here and it is really going to be hard to leave (I have already cried many times when I think of leaving all of you)! I hope that we can stay in touch and that we will get many visitors in the future!

Here is a picture of the house we will be living in. If we like this house (brand new) and neighborhood well enough we have the option to buy it...

We love the Anderson Family

2008-10-06T14:19:00.000-07:00

This weekend we were blessed to have our great friends the Anderson Family over to visit. Jess and Darren met while serving their mission in the Dominican Republic. They have remained great friends ever since. After we were married I was introduced to Darren's new wife Lisa and we hit it off. We have not seen them for almost 6 years due to Darren's Medical School in the New York City area. We were very excited to know that they would be accepting a job offer only 6 hours a way in Medford Oregon. Madysen and Tanner were best of friends when they were toddlers. Alex and Tyler are very close in age, and Zac and Matthew are also close in age. They also have a beautiful baby girl named Emily (I wish I had gotten a picture for her). We had a great time. It was like all of the kids had know each other for YEARS when really they had only just met (except Madysen and Tanner)! Thanks Darren and Lisa for coming down and staying with us. We had such a great time and hope to see you soon, and many more times...

My Dream come true...Visiting New York City

2008-09-14T15:56:00.000-07:00

So Jess and I just got back from visiting the "Big Apple"!! Wow, what fun we had! Thanks to a great friend Katie I had the best Itinerary! We actually were able to see EVERYTHING on my list! We left Monday night and flew all night. We arrived in New York at 6:43 AM on Tuesday Morning. After a "Scary" Cab ride to the hotel to drop of our bags we headed for the subway. Our first stop was the Financial District. We walked up and down Wall Street. We went over to the "Twin Towers" site. What a heart breaking scene. I did not ever see the site when the Towers were standing, but you could definitely tell that something was missing. After this our plan was to take the harbor cruise. Well because of a sudden down pour of rain, and lightning we decided to try this another day!

On Wednesday we got up at 5:00 (yes I said 5, if you know me I am NOT a morning person) to go to the Today show! I meet many Celebrities and actually talked to a few of them! The rest of this day was spent riding "Bike Buggies" through Central Park, walking up and down the streets of "Broadway", "5th Avenue" (famous for all of the stores), and Spending all night in "Times Square". Before we came I had gotten tickets to the Play "Grease...You're the One That I Want" (from the reality show last year!) It was so fun. We also made it to "Harlem" with some Work Buddies of Jess' to find the best place to eat Ribs.

On Thursday I was on my own all day and night. I decided instead of hitting 34th street I would hop on the train and visit my Aunt Tammy in Connecticut. What a beautiful house and City they live in! If I could choose any city in the world to live in that would be it! Thanks Tammy for showing me where you live and for lunch! After returning I decided to do a little shopping for myself. I had about 3 hours before it got dark so I went into many fun stores. I then got something to eat and went back to the hotel room for the night.

On Friday I once again got up at 5:00 AM (As you can see we got little sleep) to catch a Taxi (Very first, by my self) to head to the taping of "Live with Regis and Kelly" I was late in sending in for tickets so I stood in the "Stand-by) line. It turned out that 3 very nice girls had an extra ticket! They knew I was by my self so they offered it too me. Today was my LUCKY Day! I sat on the Second row (got a few seconds of AIR Time). It was fun to see how they film these, and of course see the celebrities up close! After the show I walked back through town (by now I am a pro at knowing where I was) to meet my Aunt Tammy and Cousin Issac who rode the train in to spend a few hours with me. We went to Famous Serendipity's for lunch and of course the "Frozen Hot Chocolate". Now, I am not a huge chocolate fan, but wow, this was so yummy, I ate the entire bowl! Thanks Tammy for taking the time to come in and play! After Jess was done with his last meeting we got back on the Subway and headed for the Harbor Cruise. It started to rain again, but since we already had the tickets we decided to just get on the boat. We saw many things, from Ellis Island, Statue of Liberty, the many bridges, etc. After this we once again spent most of the night down at Times Square. This is truly the "City that never Sleeps"!

On Saturday we headed to the Natural History Museum. We spent a few hours here. It was fun to see some of the things that were in the movie "Night at the Museum". We then headed for the Airport in a Town Car(not quite as scary).

I had a great time, and am Thankful to Jess for taking me along on his business trip! We were also blessed to have Grandma and Grandpa Hallman fly in to watch the kids.

Hit Refresh to watch the slideshow below...

My Dream came true in New York City!!

2008-09-14T15:55:00.000-07:00

~Zachary's First Day of Preschool~

2008-09-07T17:18:00.000-07:00

Soccer Season is here...

2008-09-07T16:47:00.000-07:00

~~Way to kick the ball Tyler!

~~Watch out Boys... I'm getting that ball

~~Take it down the field Ty!

Tyler has begun Soccer! He has had so much fun, especially with his dad as the assistant coach! Tyler gets right in and chases the ball. There team is called the "Green Alligators". It has been so hot here that by the time the game is over Ty is exhausted, but he loves every minute of it!

Manicure for Maddy ~ Pedicure for Me

2008-08-28T21:55:00.000-07:00

So I thought it would be fun to take Madysn and get her nails done before school starts (any excuse to get my toes done, right?). I took her to my favorite place called "Pinkies". She had a hard time choosing between Pink, Purple, and yes Blue nail polish. She chose the pink I think only because I liked that one best. They also put a cute flower and diamond on her thumb. Her nails look great! I think this will be a fun tradition to start before the first day of school.

Off to School We Go...WAIT! Where did the summer go?

2008-08-28T16:32:00.000-07:00

Wow, summer is officially over! Tuesday was the first day of school for the Hallman kids! Madysen was really excited but Tyler is a lot like me and does not like change, and is not a morning person. After sleeping in till 9:00 sometimes 9:30 it was hard for all of us to get out of bed! Madysen was excited to get the teacher she wanted but many of her close friends were not in her class!

Tyler...A little sleepy, but once he sat down in his chair he was smiling!

Madysen...Really excited to get the teacher she wanted and see all of her friends!

A few of Madysen's friends that did get in her class (They were split up pretty good this year)

At the school and ready to learn, or play what ever they do here!

As you can see Tyler had a great day in school! He said his teacher was "Cool"!

Madysen also had a fun day.

Zachary was feeling a little left out! Just wait Zac, in a few days you get to go to Preschool!

Angelica and Madysen...BFF

Three BFF's...Lea, Angelica, and Madysen They all were put in different classes this year, but that hasn't separated them!

A tribute to my Grandma...

2008-08-22T09:30:00.000-07:00

I will remember you… August 22nd, 2008

A year ago today I lost a very special person in my life and the lives of my kids. My loving Grandmother Ora Lee McMullin returned to our Heavenly Father on August 22nd 2007. My grandmother meant everything to me. My grandmother had MANY special qualities.

A few were:
~Grandma was always smiling!
~I never heard Grandma talk bad about anyone, she only spoke words of kindness.
~Grandma was always serving others in one way or another.
~Grandma was a very talented piano and organist player (she even taught me a few lessons or two when I was younger).
~Grandma was always doing something, even when she was sitting she was reading a good book, or crocheting (I have blankets to show for this).
~Grandma always looked her best, even when she was cleaning around the house.
~Grandma always had a positive outlook on life (one thing I need to work on), I never heard her complain about anything.
~Grandma was so generous with not only her wealth, but her time. She would drop anything and everything to help someone out.

There were many things that I will always remember Grandma doing, or Grandma and I doing together.

A few are:
~I looked forward to the wonderful Christmas Eve dinners and talent shows at her home EVERY year. My family was lucky to be able to come to St. George that last Christmas she had and spend it with her.
~The Easter Egg hunts in her back yard EVERY year. She loved to fix lunch and hide Easter Eggs in the back yard. There were many treats for every grandchild, and then the great grandchildren. When we moved away and were not able to come home for Easter she would mail us goodies or money to buy an ice cream cone.
~Helping my grandma take my Great Aunt Eddie grocery shopping every Saturday when I was younger.
~I remember Grandma being by my side at some of my “not so fun” dentist appointments (Cavities ~ Yikes).
~When I was still living at home she would take me shopping for my birthday. Grandma had great style on clothing.
~Traveling to Phoenix and Idaho with her (remembering how hard it was to get out of Las Vegas after flying home late at night, she was so calm).
~Sleeping over at her house, just me.
~Spending time with her at the cabin in the Pine Valley Mountains (the place where she grew up).
~Grandma was always in attendance at anything special that I did. Her and Grandpa even flew right into Salt Lake City after their 18 month long mission for the LDS Church to be at Tyler’s baby blessing.
~Grandma and Grandpa were so willing to let me have my wedding reception in their back yard. They made sure it looked perfect.
~Last but not Least but the thing I miss the MOST~ Grandmas phone calls on my birthday. She never missed a birthday (even when she was sick and going through chemo), and she was always one of the first calls to wish me a Happy Birthday.

Now that I am emotional I want to just say that Grandma, I will always remember you and miss you terribly. I am comforted to know that I will be with you again one day! I love you Grandma!

Grandma and Grandpa with Madysen!

Grandma and Grandpa with Tyler!

Grandma and Grandpa with Zachary!

We Love you Grandma!

Isn't this what big sisters and big brothers are supposed to do?!?

2008-08-20T13:42:00.000-07:00

Madysen secretly wishing she had a sister, but would never trade her brothers for anything!(notice the painted toes)!

Zac actually slept through Tyler putting on the pirate patch! He too loves his brother!

Great Summer Fun with the Cousins Slide Show

2008-08-14T18:49:00.000-07:00

Great Summer Fun with the Cousins!

2008-08-14T18:33:00.000-07:00

We were lucky to have my sister Alysia and her family come and visit us. We did many fun things from going to the beach, taking another day road trip to the Mrs. Grossman's Sticker Factory and the Jelly Belly Factory, and going to San Francisco. My BIL Marlon was able to come out for both fun and business. He works for the United States Coast Guard. Tyler and Jess were able to get tickets to the Commissioning of the Coast Guards new Ship named the "Bertholfs" This ship is now in Service and can hold about 120 crew members at any one time! They were lucky enough to take a tour of the ship and the Helicopter. Tyler was in Heaven (after they got done with the ceremony that is). Thanks Alysia for staying a few extra weeks out of your already long vacation to come visit us! We had a great time and miss you already!

Hannah Montana cRaZE

2008-08-13T10:36:00.000-07:00

On July 26th Disney Channel had a special showing of the Hannah Montana and Miley Cyrus "Best of Both Worlds" 3D concert. Madysen gathered the special 3D glasses that were needed and invited a few frinds over for the concert. They had a great time eating pizza and watching the concert! ~~Thanks friends for Loving Hannah Montana as much as I do~~

Madysen's Beautiful Teeth!

2008-08-13T10:21:00.000-07:00

~BEFORE~

So for the past year Madysen has been wearing Braces. She now is the proud owner of 2 retainers. After all of her "Permanent" teeth come in she will get the braces on again, but for now, don't her teeth look great!

~AFTER~

A few slide shows of our summer so far!

2008-07-29T23:26:00.000-07:00

So far we have had a great summer. Below are 3 slideshows of the summer so far...
We brought my sister Angela's two girls home with us from St. George. We had a blast and I hope they did as well. We visited Great America many times with our season passes, we saw how Jelly Belly's and Mrs. Grossman's Stickers were made, and yes they did clean a little! Right now we are having fun with my other Sister Alysia and her two kids. We have had a great time so far, and will post more of their visit later on.

You may need to refresh your computer for each slide show so you can see the pictures from the start! Enjoy, and hope your summer is as fun as ours!

Me a "Slave Driver", it looks to me like they had fun...And I got a clean floor out of it!

2008-07-29T23:23:00.000-07:00

Our 1st One Day Road Trip to both the Jelly Belly Factory and Mrs. Grossman's Sticker Factory

2008-07-29T23:07:00.000-07:00

Our Summer so far at Great America!

2008-07-29T22:45:00.000-07:00

We loved our Vacation! Well Ok, most of it!

2008-07-13T16:16:00.000-07:00

We had such a great time in St. George for the Fireworks! While Jess was busy with the guys setting up fireworks us girls had fun with the kids. As many of you know it gets really hot in St. George so the best thing to do is play in the water and eat Snow Cones, which are my favorite things! We took the kids to the splash park and played in Grandma's back yard with the new fun pool she bought the grand kids! We also at Snow Cones almost every day! The kids had so much fun with their cousins from both families.

The not so fun parts of the vacation is first, me traveling to St. George with the stomach flu, and then passing it on to many of the family members there (I am so sorry guys). The second thing was Jess woke me up at 3 am on Monday morning with stomach pain. Since he had already had the flu a week and a half earlier we knew that was not the problem. He went on WebMD and diagnosed himself with appendicitis. We ended up at the emergency room and did not leave until he had one less (useless) organ, and two days later (the day we were to leave to go home). He did end up having Acute Appendicitis, and had to have it removed. Thanks to my family for taking care of the kids, and to Jess' family for sitting at the hospital with me for many hours,and bringing me lunch! If this was going to happen, better it happen with family around right?

Below is a slide show (it is quite long) of our fun time in St. George. Thanks family for making it fun! We Love You All!!

All the fun things we did in St. George over the 4th of July!

2008-07-13T16:15:00.001-07:00

Zachary Turns Three...

2008-06-24T22:10:00.001-07:00

Our Miracle baby is 3!

2008-06-24T20:34:00.000-07:00

Wow, can I just say "Where has the time gone"? It seems like just yesterday that we had a 4 pound preemie!! Zac has turned into a Wonderful, Fun~Loving, Very Energetic and Smart boy. We are so blessed to have him in our family! For Zac's birthday we invited his favorite buddies and their families over for a "Hot Wheels" dinner party. We had such a great time thanks for coming!! Happy Birthday Zachary!

What a Great time we had with Be-Bah, or Grandma!

2008-06-19T12:28:00.000-07:00

My mom was able to come out for the very last of school. It was so much fun to have her here hanging out with the kids. She was able to attend Madysen's Gold Rush Musical, and meet our terrific friends the D'Augusta's, who by the way are our "Rock" out her in Cali.(thanks for that Shell)! It was our anniversary so my mom stayed with the kids so Jess and I could go on a long overdue date. Thanks mom. On Thursday we went to "High School Musical" on Tour. It was so much fun! Now because I am so scatterbrained I remembered right as we sat in our seats that I forgot the camera, but remembered that on my new cell phone I had a camera. The picture's aren't the greatest but they work! We took one of Maydsen's best friends Angelica. Madysen said she liked the play more than the movie. We also did a little shopping and Mom and I went and got Pedicures! Mom and Madysen flew away on Saturday (Madysen is staying in Utah for 3 weeks). Thanks mom for taking the time to come visit us! We Love You!

A Tribute to Teachers! Our Teachers!

2008-06-19T11:46:00.000-07:00

We have been blessed this year to have 3 Wonderful, Fantastic, Talented, and Loving Teachers!

First off, Madysen's Teacher is Mrs. Lee. What an amazing person and teacher she is. When Madysen finished 2nd grade I worried that we would never find a teacher as good as Mrs. Jentch, but we did! Mrs. Lee was not only a blast, she was a very dedicated teacher in making sure all of the students in her class excelled academically, and you know what? I know they all did, especially Madysen!

Tyler was blessed to have 2 wonderful teachers this year. It started out with "Sweet" Mrs. Brock. You just knew when meeting her for the first time that each child would have a special place in her heart. It was bitter sweet when we found out on Valentines Day that Mrs. Brock was back East finally getting what she had dreamed about...A child of her own! We were so excited for her on the adoption of her new baby son, but very sad because we know she would not be coming back this year! This is where Mrs. Perry came in. She took over the class like a "nurturing" mother. She knew the kids would be confused about the situation and she was so patient, all the while getting them back into their regular routine, while adding her own personality into it. It did not take Tyler long, maybe 2 days to adore Mrs. Perry. I am positive that on her refrigerator at home Mrs. Perry has posted the pictures and "Love Notes" Tyler has drawn for her. Tyler did not miss a beat, academically by the change. Mrs. Perry did a great job at keeping those kids on the track that Mrs. Brock started!

And so We say...Thank-you Mrs. Lee, Mrs. Brock, and Mrs. Perry!

Wow, this school year has gone fast!

2008-06-19T11:42:00.000-07:00

So, it has been a very busy 3 weeks. Between last minute field trips, end of school year performances and parties, and having Grandma Jane (Be-Bah, as Zac calls her) come we have been very busy. Below is a fun slide show of all these events!

Our Final activities of the School year!

2008-06-19T11:26:00.001-07:00

Do you remember the "Gold Rush"

2008-06-19T09:45:00.000-07:00

Ok, so Maddy's teacher is amazing! Remeber a few blogs back Madysen told you about learning about the "Gold Rush". Well Mrs. Lee had a very funny Musical that went right along with this. The children in the class actually tried out in front of their class mates for certain parts. They all did a great job with their parts as well as the singing! Even the costumes and props were amazing! Just by finishing off the year with this performance you could tell that this class got along really well and had a great time. We wish we could just move the whole class on to next year! Teacher and all!!

Zachary's New Bed

2008-05-26T09:43:00.000-07:00

This weekend we decided (or Jess did) that it was time to put Zachary in a "Big" boy bed. As Jess was taking the crib apart I was standing there thinking where did the time go? My baby is not a baby anymore! I was also thinking a more selfish thought of...How am I going to keep him contained to take naps? So far the nights have gone well (only because he has been very tired from no naps). I am hoping when school gets back in he will take naps. We will see... As you can see Zachary loves to take his Webkins and cars to bed. When we moved his crib there had to be about 20 cars under there!!

Tyler's 6th Birthday!

2008-05-24T15:35:00.001-07:00

Tyler's Birthday was last week! He was lucky enough to go camping for his Birthday. Jess took both the boys and went to our Ward's Father's and Son's camp out. We ordered a Cake for him to share with everyone up there (notice only 5 candles on the cake, leave it to me to forget the candles and at the last minute only finding 5). We have a tradition that every other year instead of a big party the kids are able to invite a few of their friends out to dinner. Tyler decided he wanted to go to "Chuck E Cheese". He invited Dominic, Nate, and Collin (who sadly could not come). They had so much fun playing the games. They didn't care about earning tickets, all they wanted to do was play the car racing games. It was up to Madysen and Dad and I to earn enough tickes for them to take home a prize! We had a great time, and if you asked Tyler if he had a great 6th birthday, I know he would say YES!

Zachary and the Hill...isn't he CUTE!

2008-05-15T13:09:00.001-07:00

"Gold Rush"

2008-05-14T21:50:00.001-07:00

Learning about the "California Gold Rush"

2008-05-14T20:37:00.000-07:00

In 1849 people discovered gold in the California rivers. People came from every part of the country to get the gold.

Today was our 4th grade field trip to the California Gold Rush! We rode buses up to Stevens Creek Canyon. Most of us were dressed in the Gold Rush clothes. There we participated in many activities that the people back then did. We first went to the barber shop and had our hair braided in pigtails. We then made lemonade, butter and ice cream from scratch. They were all yummy! I also tried to sew, but that didn't go so well. I also played horseshoes with a friend Jody. We got pretty close to the ring. They also had a letter writing booth using Quill's, but I did not have time for that. After the activity we went down to the river to pan for gold. We worked in teams of "Families" in my family there were 6 members. I was a child of 4 years old and my name was Lilly Cavin. We received our gold pans from the "Banker" (which happened to be my dad). After searching for gold we took it all to the "Assayer" and he weighed it. We then took our claim to the banker (my dad) and traded it for $. We each got $25 to spend in the "Mercantile". I bought a bag of marbles, checker board, and glass hearts. It was so fun and I learned a lot!

"Doodle 4 Google"

2008-05-12T21:46:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone,

Many of you know that Madysen entered the "Doodle 4 Google" contest. We are saddend to say that her drawing did not make it to the Voting (even though we thought her picture was AWESOME). I did want to inform you of the link so you may see what she was up against. There are some very original and talented pictures! I am not sure when voting is over so I suggest you take a look as soon as you can and don't forget to vote! Below is the picture Madysen drew. Her title was: "What if Life were a Waterpark"! The link is: http://www.google.com/doodle4google/index.html

I am Sooo Lucky!

2008-05-11T19:27:00.000-07:00

Today is Mothers Day! I am so lucky to have such a sweet husband who made sure my wishes were granted (a clean house and not having to make dinner)! I also have 3 wonderful children who signed and colored a HUGE card for me. They also each made me homemade gifts! Yes we are missing one cute child named Tyler in this picture.

I would also like to Thank my mom for being the best mom ever!!!! She has done so much for me and my family. My kids just adore her! I love you mom! I also have a great Mother-in-Law! Thank-you for all you do for us! We love you!

Zachary's Eye Surgery

2008-05-11T19:07:00.000-07:00

As most of you know Zac has had a "Clogged Tear Duct' since he was born. This prevents the tears from draining properly. Instead they run out his eye and gets build up right around his eye. He had surgery when he was 1 1/2 years old, but this did not solve the problem for his right eye. We get asked a lot if he has pink eye. We finally decided to go the route of a tube being placed in his tear duct to open it up. This operation had complications however because his tear duct is so small the tube got stuck. We will go see the doctor about another option this week. At this surgery center they were so cute with Zac. After giving him the sleepy medicine which made him very giggly, they brought in a wagon with blankets of padding and a pillow. He was so excited to get a ride. I wish I had taken a picture of this, but I was so emotional to see my baby go off to have surgery. After the surgery he was so mad that he had a cast on his arm that protected the IV. Once we took that off he calmed down, but was still a little grumpy. After sleeping all morning he was back to his normal busy self when the kids came home from school. You would never had believed that he just had surgery that morning!
I do have to say that even having to go through this, we are so blessed that this is the only health problem Zac has considering his premature birth!

2008-05-04T21:31:00.001-07:00

Dancing Girl!

2008-05-04T21:01:00.000-07:00

Since the first of the school year Maddy has participated in a Dance class at the YMCA. She had a great time and loved dancing with her friend Angelica. Her teacher Jackie was so cute with these girls. Madysen performed at a few places, including the men's and women's basketball games at Stanford. Maddy can now say she danced on the "Jumbo-Tron"! Madysen picked up the dance steps quickly and was really great at it. We hope she will want to keep dancing!

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After I picked up the kids from school I was greeted by a beautiful bouquet of flowers and some very "yummy" Krispy Kreme donuts, which by the way are my favorite! After a fun Softball game of Maddy's and a surprise Pinky's Pedicure and flip-flops from a terrific friend Shell, we went home with Little Caesars Pizza (also a favorite) and cake and balloons (Huge Balloons). Thanks also to mom for the fun clothes and to Lynda for the fun book! I also loved all of the fun phone calls! Jess's brother Ryan and his daughter Saddie were also visiting and helped celebrate~ Thanks to all of you for making my 25th birthday so fun! I am so blessed and loved!

Take Me Out to the Ball Game...

2008-05-01T10:00:00.000-07:00

Maddy and Tyler and Mom and Dad (Mom manager and Dad Coach of Maddy's team) have been very busy this spring with playing ball! Madysen is playing Softball this year and she is lucky to have her dad coach her again this year. She is a wonderful player. Her main position to play is 1st base! Her team name is the "Green Tree Frogs".

Tyler started T-Ball this year. He is a team member of the "Rockies". We have never had a T-ball player before so we were unaware of the rules of the game. So imagine us at the first game and the other team is up to bat. The boy hits the ball off the tee, and takes off in slow motion. The little pitcher on our team gets the ball and throws it to first base. Yea ~ the boy is "Out". Well, not exactly, so being the competitive player Jess is wonders what is going on (all while being well behaved I might add) until a friend lets us know that there are no outs in this game. All players get to bat and run the bases! Tyler has loved the game and looks forward to the snacks as well!

The year at a Glance!

2008-04-25T16:31:00.000-07:00

Hello Family and Friends,

I decided to update my blog. I have enjoyed reading all of yours. A friend of mine said that her blog was the closest thing to her scrapbook or journal. I thought I would give it a try. Below are 3 slide shows. I am still trying to figure out how to put posts up. If any of you Bloggers have any tips and fun sites you use let me know!

Come back soon!

A great time in St. George for Spring Break!

2008-04-25T15:48:00.001-07:00

Happy St. Patricks Day!

2008-04-25T15:47:00.001-07:00

Valentines Day 2008

2008-04-25T15:38:00.001-07:00

Generations

2007-08-20T10:22:00.000-07:00

This was a highlight of the trip to St. George over the summer. We were able to see Grandma & Grandpa McMullin, and create memories!!

Family Fun

2007-08-14T11:20:00.000-07:00

We went to Utah over the summer to have Family Pictures and play with fireworks. It was fun to see everyone, and Celeste got to stay for the whole month and visit family and firends like Aubri :), and abandon her poor, lonely husband at home. He barely survived the boredom, and had to make do with meals from Schwan's and Pizza Hut.

We are all now back home and getting ready for the new school year.