Taylor, Amanda, Jayden, Skyler, and Aysia

Monday, July 28, 2008

Robinson Reunion



We had the opportunity to travel to Starr Valley for the Robinson Reunion (Taylor’s Mom’s family). Grandpa Tom Robinson, Mom Robinson, Jan & Johnny Knoble and our little family traveled together as a group.We really had a great time and enjoyed visiting with relatives we had not seen in a while and those we had never met. We were surprised when we saw Elder Bednar sitting at the dinner table across from us. We realized that they were distant relatives of ours through marriage. I never did quite understand the correct relationship, but we were excited anyway.

We stayed in cabins filled with bunk beds and bathrooms just down a little path. We roasted marshmallows, hiked, fished, played water games and even played a mean game of H-O-R-S-E (Taylor winning of course). The kids had a great time and really did well. I enjoy outdoors and look forward to future camping trips. Thanks Grandpa!!!

Welcome Ace!!!


We are so excited to announce the arrival of our newest nephew, Ace Braddock. He is so adorable and we can’t wait to see him. His parents Mikelle (Taylor’s sister) & John make amazing parents and are doing well.

Timpanogos Cave

Grandpa & Grandma Pikus, Noelle, Lacee, Jayden, Skyler, and Me!-- Ready to Hike!!!




It had been a while since I had hiked to the cave and was really looking forward to it. Thanks to Grandma Robinson for taking Aysia, it was a much easier hike. Jayden did exceptionally well and never complained. Skyler, on the other hand, was a little overwhelmed, but made it. He seemed to do much better when Grandpa Pikus held his hand. Noelle took little Lacee who slept for much of the hike. The cave was amazing and aside from a few bumped heads, we came out in one piece. What an amazing State we live in!

LAGOON DAY


I really looked forward to Lagoon this year since Skyler and Jayden were tall enough to go on many of the advanced rides. And thanks to Noelle for taking Aysia, it was much more enjoyable. Grandma Pikus joined us as well. We loved all of the water rides, but unfortunately they had the longest lines. Grandma was soaked after the Snake Rapids. Jayden was able to go on the Colossus for the first time. He was really excited at first until he realized it traveled upside down. He asked if he was going to fall out. After I replied no and that he would be strapped in, he was thrilled. He loved it so much we went on it twice. Skyler loved the big boat ride and the Bat coaster. We Love Summer!!!

Lagoon




This video demonstrates the typical behavior of Jayden and Skyler on a daily basis. I thought it showed part of their true colors! They are best friends and worst enemies.

The Living Planet Aquarium






This last week the boys and I learned about Sharks and fish. Jayden’s favorite Shark is the great white and was excited to learn that they have several rows of teeth and when they loose one, another will always grow back. The kids and I took a trip to the Aquarium in Sandy. It was really fun for the kids to learn about fish in Utah’s habitat as well as in oceans around the world. They were able to pet sea creatures and stingrays. Jayden was a little skeptical about petting the stingray and decided to watch as Skyler did the petting. They loved the glowing jellyfish as well as the large tank full of sharks.

Growing Up!

SKYLER: He is my little snuggle bug. Anytime I need some cheering up, he is right there ready for a long hug. He absolutely adores babies and can’t keep his hands off of them. If there is a baby in the room, he is right there playing, mauling and kissing them. Lately he has become very persistent when he wants something. I no longer take him down the toy isles at the stores for fear of a major break down if I don’t buy him an action figure or specific toy. Skyler has become fascinated with bugs and spiders lately and makes me a little nervous every time he walks in the door yelling “come look what I found”.

JAYDEN: Jayden is my big helper. He has a few responsibilities around the house and gets paid for them on a weekly basis ( a whopping 50 cents). I told him he needed to take out the garbage and he replied he was going to quit his job. I explained that we all need to work and help out and asked what would happen if Dad quit his job. His answer was that he had plenty of money to support us and we could play all day. Wow, how would that be? Anyway, he often gets Aysia out of her crib after her nap and changes her diaper before I notice (and actually does a decent job). He starts 1st grade in 3 weeks. I am really going to miss him being around during the day.

AYSIA: I decided to take a few pictures of Aysia playing a couple of weeks ago. She is starting to look more and more like a little girl rather than a baby. She is so mellow tempered and easy going. She now has 6 teeth and has learned the word thank you and uses it on a regular basis. She also enjoys giving open mouthed kisses – mmmm! She loves playing hide & seek with her brothers although she is always the seeker. She squeals when she finds them.

Softball & Jamba’s!!



I absolutely love summer evenings especially those spent at softball games. The kids and I enjoyed watching Noelle & Janson play a few games along with grandma and grandpa Wright and Mom & Dad Pikus. It was usually a tradition to buy a Jamba Juice after the games. I look forward to playing in our “family” softball league this fall.

Thursday, July 10, 2008

Swimming Lessons





Jayden and Skyler were both enrolled in private swim lessons at the Scera pool. Their teacher Missy was great. We went to a matinee movie and swimming once a week with Kristine, Noah and Cooper. We look forward to doing it again next year.