One Of Eight

Zachary's Baptisim

2009-10-20T13:20:00.000-07:00

Still catching up from summer time, and finally made it to Zachary's special day.

Zachary is such a sweet special boy. He has a hunger for life and excitement. Zachary turned 8 on July 25, 2009 and was Baptised on September 11, 2009.

Zachary doesn't ever want to miss a thing. He wants to be so involved at times he is a little overwhelming.

Zachary was happy and excited to see all his friends and family come to share his day with him.

Doug spoke on Baptism and gave Zachary great advice.

Zachary took the first step in returning to live with Our Father In Heaven. He was happy to do what the Lord has asked of him.

Adam came and spoke on The Holy Ghost. Adam reminded Zachary and the rest of us funny stories of him growing up and lessons learned.

While looking at Zachary the day of his baptism, I saw him doing great things in his future.

I saw Zachary helping and teaching others the gospel and bringing them into the waters of baptism. And using his friends and family around him as support to always choose the right. And I saw Zachary using his talents to serve the Lord.

Alvia Turned 3

2009-10-14T15:20:00.000-07:00

Summer is the season for our children's birthdays. We start with Kyler 6-25, then Liv 07-01 and Zachary is the last summer b day around here 07-25. But, for Kyler's birthday we were at a baseball tourney in Wy so he hung out with friends at the motel pool and had dinner with family and friends. No pictures. So on to ALYVIA!!!!

Alyvia is still young enough that her birthday parties are more of a party for Jessica and I. I mean we invite our friends...... and family to.

Zac had a mouth full of cake!!

Getting ready for presents. I must be quite the catch.

Alyvia loves her scooter. They are so easy to please when they're young. Kyler wants expensive things like cell phones and video games.

Look at the pretty little girls. Oliver and Miles too!!

Well, Liv's party was fun and one to Zac's. We had a party for him, but we lost our camera and I think all the pictures from his party were on it. OOPS!!

Remodeling the bathroom..

2009-10-14T09:05:00.001-07:00

Since Jessica and I have lived in the house we're in now, we've tried to take one project at a time and fix things up. The basement was one great big project for our family, and every one that helped. And it was the area that needed the most attention, so the upstairs was somewhat neglected. Well, the main bathroom upstairs had some cracked tile around the toilet and had been leaking slowly for a while, enough to cause the floor, and sub floor to begin to rot, and STINK.

When Christina, my brother's Doug's wife got pregnant and Jessica and all the Girls in the family decided to have the baby shower at our house, it seemed like the perfect time to

REMODEL THE BATHROOM!!!!

I thought it would be easy!! So I started with the demolition. Jessica and I tore off the awful wall paper and saw the most ugly wall behind it. I saw the job getting bigger.

We had tile, mortar, grout, GFI outlets, and light switches, all left over from the basement project so doing this job was suppose to be a cheap and easy fix. Reuse the lights, toilet, sink, faucet and mirrors.

Taking the old tile out proved to be about the easiest job.

But when it came to tearing up the old concrete board, then the floor, and then the sub floor that needed replaced. I admit I lost steam and let the bathroom sit for a while. But with the deadline getting close and Doug supporting me and keeping me motivated, he helped out and the work began again. Now, Doug had just had a very intense surgery on his shoulder and wasn't to be lifting and straining himself. But if you know Doug, you know how that turned out.

After the floor were taken out the new flooring went in. Doug stayed with me and gave me the advice on how it should be done. Several times Doug told me to not do things half ass'ed.

Now we were on a roll. Floor in and tile was right behind it. Doug and I pulled a couple late nights. You'll notice that the vanity changed color and the counter top is missing. Jessica and I planned to leave the counter top to save money. But when Doug gets going, it hard to stop him. Doug says to me, that thing is ugly, everything in this bathroom is new but that? Don't do things half ass'ed Jon. We had even planned on keeping the tile racks and had even painted them.

Doug went and bought me matching brushed stainless racks. He told me it was a gift from him. Oh, and Jessica's uncle Pete had left over counter top that he gave us. Doug talked us into buying a new faucet. I'm glad he did.

It turned out great!! And was finished in time.

I set the toilet about 2 hours before the baby shower began. Many thanks to Doug for all his great help. One more project done!!!!

Baseball

2009-10-13T15:10:00.000-07:00

Most of you know we spend alot of time playing baseball during the summer. We travel many places to go watch Kyler play ALL-STAR tournaments. This year we went to Evanstan Wy, Soda Springs, Montpeilar and played in the Blackfoot tourney as well. Jessica and I forgot several times to take the camera to the games so the pictures are limited. We did use the new trailer several times. It was nice to not have to get a motel room and eat out every night.

This is a truck that was found in Soda Springs. Kyler and his teammates took a fun photo by it.

Zachary suited up for the big game. This is Zac's first year in coach pitch. He did very well and loved playing catcher.

We spent alot of time sitting in the heat. Luckily we had or trusty canopy.

Kyler hit the game winning home run in this game. We were two runs down. We had 2 on base, 2 outs and Kylers was up to bat. Kyler was using his brand new bat. He hit the the ball solid, and it went right over the first basemans head. It was moving so fast that when it hit the ground the outfielder couldn't play it and missed. Well, Kyler turned on his wheels and ran, to first, second, thrid and home...... SAFE!!!

GAME OVER!!!

Fishing at Flaming Gorge!!

2009-10-13T14:09:00.000-07:00

Since I've know Mike I've know his love for family and fishing. What better than to do it together.

Mike called me one day in March, I think. And said, "Hey Jon, What are you doing on the 24 and 25 of June?" I told him I was washing my hair. "I don't know Mike, why?"

Mike told me he was renting a private fishing boat with a guide to catch some great big giant fish, and he wanted to take me. He told me there was room for 4 and Mom, Scott and he were already reserved. Well, you all know that Kyler's Birthday is the 25th of June... What do I do? What do I do?

Count me in Mike, I'll be there..

Well Kyler was in Evanstan Wyoming that weekend on a baseball tournament anyway, so I'll go to Flaming Gorge and on the way back we planned to drop me off in Evanstan for the games.

Back to fishing. We drove down to Maila Ut and found where we were to meet at the lake the next morning. There were antelope everywhere.

We stayed the night in a little cabin like room. Scott and I shared the hide-a-bed. Scott tried snuggling me several times. As well as the snuggling, Scott kicked, snored, tossed and turned, and farted all night long. Needless to say I was ready to go fishing in the morning.

We got on the boat before the sun came up and were off and running. The weather was nice only a light jacket was needed. When the guide got us set up, and the down riggors in the water we decided that Mike and Mom would get the first fish of the day. Well, Mom and Mike were enjoying sitting in the cabin at the table talking and when the first fish hit the line. The guide went crazy yelling for someone to get it. Scott and I waiting for Mom to get up and grab the pole just about got screamed to death. I was close enough to grab the pole and reel in the first fish of the day but stepped aside and let Scott do it. Guess what? Scott caught the BIGGEST fish of the day. His only one, but still the biggest!!!

Mom caught the next fish for the 2nd largest fish of the day. A beautiful fish!! And watching Mom fight it was pretty stinkin funny.

I caught a smaller Rainbow then Mike pulled in the 3rd largest fish of the day!

My fish was so pretty. I caught three that day. Two looked just like this one and the other was a little smaller. Mike looks disappointed at me.... Sorry I only catch small fish Mike... Just Kidding...

We found out that I caught my smallest fish by the tail, and the one I'm holding I caught by the eye. So I'm not so much and great fisherman, but the fish were extremely unlucky that day.

Well it turned out Scott didn't sleep very well either the night before, cause he crashed out of the guides bed for about 2 hours. What a wimp!!!

I never knew Flaming Gorge had Swedish fish!!

I am good at catching those...

Memorial Day Camp Trip!!

2009-10-13T13:04:00.000-07:00

Well, I was gonna do one big post to catch every one up, but when I started remembering all the fun times we had. I couldn't leave anything out...

We went camping and hiking at Saw Mill Canyon with the LEE"S. We had not been camping in a couple year. Probably since before Alyvia was born. So it was a real fun time. The Lee's cheated and brought their camp trailer. We tented it and froze to death, almost.

We ate, sat around, joked and just a had a good time!!

Jessica even told scary stories. (she really gets into it)

The men all went on an awesome hike.

We stopped by a mountain stream for a refreshing drink of water.

The plan was to hike up the a remote mountain lake and do some fishing.. We didn't expect snow though..

Zachary and I stayed behind and talked a rock into taking a picture of us.

Brian and I stopping for a photo op! We really just wanted a picture so people would believe we what we were hiking. At times it was very steep.

Kyler and I hiked ahead of the group to find the lost lake. Brian kept telling us, I'm sure it rights over that next hill... NOPE!!! Its gotta be the next one then.... NOPE!!. Kyler and I decided to climb the last section, and if the lake wasn't there, we would turn and go back. Guess what? There it was!!!

Although the lake was almost completely frozen over, Brain and the boys attempting fishing it. They didn't catch anything but Jack Jack fell through the ice and we almost lost him.. Over all, it was a great weekend getaway.

And when the hike was over, and the Lee's had a nice hot shower in their warm heated trailer. Not fair!! But Jessica and I knew that this weekend could happen over and over again, to keep our little family doing fun things together and build memories like we had when we were younger. So,

We bought a trailer too!!

2009-10-01T14:32:00.000-07:00

Hey everybody? I took the summer off from this blog thing, but have had a couple people get, well? a little angry that I stopped. So..... Here is my pledge. I pledge to keep the blog going, to add fun pictures of my family and the stuff we do. I will create a general summer over all post to catch everyone up. But I just don't feel like it now......... Sorry

Stay tuned ............

Egg hunting at the Grove!!!

2009-05-05T12:28:00.000-07:00

Every year just before Easter the City of Blackfoot has an Easter egg hunt down at Jensen's Grove. Every year I complain and whine not wanting to go mess with all the crowds and people. And every year I try to get out of it with no luck at all. But, every year I am glad to be able to see my children family and friends enjoying themselves.... And I admit, I enjoy myself too.

Zac and Livi were having a great time and hunting for the egg with the bicycle prize in it.

Alyvia had fun. Her pace was a lot slower than others but she still managed to have just as much fun.

Zac is hoping for the grand prize!!!

Zac is growing up so fast. He was so impressive to watch out in the field gathering eggs. He was one of the oldest in his age group and therefor able to get eggs much faster than others. Zac only gathered a small amount, and even backed off eggs when younger children were near to make sure they had a memorable time also. Zac is a great child, and is willing to share at times when he could otherwise not. Zac is, for those who don't know him, Loud, crazy, loud, emotional, loud, happy, loud, funny.............. and caring.

I couldn't be prouder...
Much Love ZaChArY

Answered Prayers in the ICU

2009-03-28T17:56:00.000-07:00

Most of you know about my brother and his hard times recovering after a surgery that saved his life. I couldn't do any better than what Zandra wrote about telling Dave's story and her experiences while caring for Dave and his family. So, I wanted to send a link to read her story.

http://morticiansdaughter.blogspot.com/2009/03/answered-prayers-in-icu.html

I have no doubt in my mind of the power of the priesthood and the faith that David and his family have of Our Father In Heaven. Thanks Zandra for being with Dave and Daisy, and their kids. Thanks for the up-dates!!

"Kid quotes"

2009-03-20T12:32:00.000-07:00

With my work Schedule like it is, I am also a part time stay at home parent. And I get to to spend a lot of time with all my children. Today I was home with Alyvia and she was whining more than usual. So I said, "Alyvia, stop whining at me, I don't like it." Alyvia, being 2.5 said back, in a whining voice "Yeees yooou doooo..... yoooou looove it!!!

So I took the picture!!

Zac and I were sitting at the kitchen table about a week ago and I was trying to help him with his homework. Again, being part time stay at home dad. When Zac looked up at me with a very serious look on his face and said, " You know dad? You're a serial killer!!" "What? Why?" I asked Zac. He said, " BECAUSE YOU HAVE TERRIBLE HANDWRITING!!"

There have been so many more but my memory is failing me. So hopefully when they come in I'll jot them down and try to pass them you to my faithful viewers.

Inspiration by the MurrayClan....

Jessica's Birthday party (surprise!!)

2009-03-19T13:15:00.001-07:00

I'm not really good at planning parties, and with Jessica so busy all the time and never getting a break, I figured dinner with friends and family would be great! So I told everyone to meet at Red Lobster and Surprise Jess..

Meet Adam and Sara Murray, close friends and neighbors. Sara says Adam and I suffer from Bromance!!! Check out the clip!!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VWGXDZ_8MQ0&eurl=http%3A%2F%2Fwww%2Efacebook%2Ecom%2Fhome%2Ephp&feature=player_embedded

Mike and Alice Dahn showed up to help celebrate with us. So did Jessica's mom, Marge. It was fun for our parents to get to meet and hang out with our friends.

Shaun and Tiffany Eaton. They are tons of fun and Shaun is the goof off in the group. Well he's one of them.

The BOSS and his lovely wife. Brain and Lori Lee. I think there was an incident with mashed potatoes down one of their shirts.

I swear they haven't been drinking. James and Jennifer Hatch. So nice to have them back from Utah....

Jessica and Marge enjoying them selves with no kids........ or grand kids!!!!

And after everyone left I had to stay behind to work off my bill. I guess I should have had the salad!!! Oh well!!

The Love of my Life !!!

2009-03-18T14:25:00.000-07:00

In the past I've only briefly mention Jessica, and since today is her birthday I thought I would let everyone get to know, "THE LOVE OF MY LIFE."

Jessica was born in March 18th 1978 in Blackfoot Idaho, The same hospital that Kyler and Zac were born in. She moved to California for a very short time when she was young then back to Blackfoot. From what I know Jessica was a sweet little girl that was somewhat mischievous at times. I've heard stories about her and her older brother Danny fighting and finding trouble. When Jessica's dad would have to scold her, or even spank her it was a far more challenging task for him, not the emotional stuff, but Jessica would squirm so much he could never keep hold of her to get the job done. how could you be mad at a pretty little girl like Jess.

I thought it would be fun to show my faithful Blog followers Jessica's transformation to what she is now. Be advised!!!! What you are about to see may cause outbreaks of severe laughter.

Its plain to see life hasn't always been easy for Jessica, Just Kidding Sweetie.

Jessica Played basketball and golf in high School as well as earning good grades and putting up with me in her later years.

I believe this is Jessica's Junior year

(below)

Below is a picture from Graduation night. Jessica Graduated in 1996 from Blackfoot High School.

I remember that night she was extremely sick, I believe it was her tonsils. She was still able to have a smile on her face.

In 1997 I finally wore down her defences and talked her into marring me, I remember she cried all the way down the isle. I still hope they were tears of Joy.

Jessica is a great mother and wife. She has the toughest job in our house, putting up with me. Jessica loves to spend time wife family and she also enjoys traveling, camping, and long walks on the beach. Sorry, I got carried away.

Jessica works full time and still manages to keep up with two rough boys, a girly girl, making sure the bills are paid, cooking (she makes excellent Cinnamon rolls), cleaning and helping out with the little league baseball club in Blackfoot. Jessica is the 2ND Vice Pres for Blackfoot. The ladies she works with love her and I believe she is very valuable to her bosses. Jessica is also an advisor in the young women's at Church. She spends time teaching them and preparing lessons and helping them with their goals and volleyball nights. Jessica is always busy helping others and hardly takes time for her self, but never complains. Jessica loves service for others.

Jessica is easy to get along with, a real people person, she is little shy at first but she quickly opens up and is quick to jump in the fun. I am lucky to have spent the last 12 years married to such a smart, beautiful, fun loving woman. I couldn't have done better, and she tells me that too.

I love you Jess!!!

I hope your Birthday is filled with your best wishes and dreams.

Happy Birthday!!!

Fun in the water...

2009-02-11T18:44:00.000-08:00

K.C ....... Zachy D......... and Livi Lou

Shes gonna be a swimmer.... I hope

Zac is always happy, when he's not screaming

I think the jet is hitting Kyler somewhere

they never get along this great

perfect right before bed, tire them out.

Can there REALLY be a favorite?

2009-02-10T15:11:00.000-08:00

I guess I have to make up with a certain sister that is under the impression that she has been blind sided. Meet my sister Zandra, AKA The Morticians Daughter.

Zandra is the reason I started blogging. She wrote such a sweet Birthday blog for me and is feeling sad because she can't keep up with snowmobiling from Wendy. Aww! Isn't that special? Zandra? Did you forget about my summer get away at your house? Last summer my older brother David needed help moving to South Carolina. So we spent 3 days driving almost non-stop in a giant size U-Haul pulling a car trailer. WOW! What a trip. Just Dave and I on the open road. The trip was great. Dave and I had a blast while driving and getting great quality brother time in. He Slept almost the whole way...( JUST KIDDING)

We didn't stop much to sleep. Only twice for about 2 hours each time. At this point we were in the middle of Wyoming and Dave backed the U-haul off a interstate exit that literally led us into a famers feild (Wyoming is weird like that) Dave Slept in the U-Haul and I in his van on the trailer. When suddenly I woke to the sound of a Train horn blowing, I noticed the U-Haul was back about 15 feet from the train tracks and the train was blowing by. WOW, that was close!

Well.... I only made it to Tennessee. You see, David's wife, Daisy, and his 3 kids flew to Tennessee and were driving the remainder of the way. (This is where Zandra comes in) When we got to Zandra house it was like a resort. The pool, hot tub with fire flies floating in the air in the background. It was fantastic.

The next day Zandra took me into Nashville and I got to see some of the sights. I have always wanted to see the Grand Ole Opry. I only saw the outside but it kinda counts. But she took me to some great huge super mall and I got to do a little shopping. She took me to See my favorite country music star's house, ALAN JACKSON! What a huge house. In fact most of the houses around Nashville are huge.

The kids got kinda cranky!!

To top it off, Zandra and her neighbors rented, not one, but two boats on the final day I was there. Zandra knows my love of the water and for especially wake boarding. So we headed out to the lake. Talk about a beautiful day. The water I swear was about 80 degrees. Like bath water. We spent the day between the pontoon boat and the ski boat just having fun and eating.......... ALOT!

Zandra with Anika and Kyra, and a neighbor girl.

Get on the tube Dave, I'll go slow.

Torb and all other kids just flying over the edge of the pontoon.

That pic is not in Tennesse, but I had to put it in to prove I can wakeboard!!

The Per and Zandra Anderson Family.

(nice hair Per)

So....... Like I said, Can there really be a favorite? I mean I have so many great brothers and sisters that would give anything for me and our family. And we have all had fun special times together. And I LOVE them all so much!

Thanks for Everything zAnNy!!! Much Love sis......

Now get off my back.. ok?

Saturday ..........

2009-01-24T14:45:00.000-08:00

Today is Saturday, we woke up late and when we got up we decided it was time to clean the house. Wendy and her boys were in town so I had extra help with chores. The deal was, you can come over but you have to work. Once the house was cleaned the boys decided to play in the snow. Jessica was busy making cookies while Wendy watched.

It was tough to keep Wendy's fingers out of the batter. She looks so innocent, doesn't she?

After the boys were outfitted in the latest fashions and cold gear it was straight outside. Find the biggest hill.

Zac, Kyler, Wylie and Chance in this pic. They started digging a snow fort. I don't think they got to far.

Zac and Chance. Cousins and friends.

The whole group. You mess with one of them, you get em all.

K.C and Jack Jack!!!

He's a Sharp Healer Hound

(in case you were wondering)

1/4 Sharpe

1/4 Blue Healer

1/2 Basset Hound

Put your hands up and step away from the cookies

Just a couple video's of the boys bein' crazy and havin' fun. Its all we have to do in the winter.

Day off for DAD'S

2009-01-16T16:58:00.000-08:00

In my past blogs you hear me talk about my favorite sister, right?

I think my Lil sis Wendy might have just taken the #1 spot.

Yesterday Wendy gave me something I needed most, a Day off for Dad's.

Wendy's husband Jake is, as most of you already know, a die hard snowmobile rider. Jake always has the best spot's, finds the biggest hills and can climb higher and faster than anyone around. (I don't know if its guts or if he's crazy) Jake invited me to go snowmobiling with him several times over the winter but scheduling for me was difficult. Trying to arrange babysitters and then traveling and working, it didn't seem like it would work.

Wendy saved the Day!!!!

Wendy came to Blackfoot and picked me up... I really didn't have a choice....

She even offered her sled ( which is a Brand new Arctic Cat M8 with a light weight can and a 162 inch track) She also watched Alyvia so I could enjoy my day. She made breakfast and sent Jake and I off for a day without kids.

There I am deciding which mountain to climb next ( ya right huh?)

The country where we went was so beautiful and the sun was shinning all day long. I couldn't ask for a better day.

After about 45 miles, a light easy ride, we called it good for the day, but not before a few hills!!!!

This is Jake shooting up a hill trying to decide which shute to go through!!!! Its really alot steeper than it looks!! The flat area we're sitting on is a lake thats frozen over with about 5 feet of snow....

These next two are me...... not really as big as Jakes but still very steep.

and sorry about the terrible video, its taken from my cell phone...

So...... if my sisters are reading, and they are thinking about taking the #1 spot..........

you might have some work to do......

THE POLLS ARE OPEN........

NOW!!!

I'm just kidding, I love all my sisters the same....

But seriously Zandra and Angie, you have some work to do!!!!

Christmas at the Croxfords…

2009-01-08T18:29:00.000-08:00

I know my blog entries are after the fact, but, better late than never!!!

Every year we celebrate the holiday season by inviting the icon of the modern day Christmas into our home. You guessed it, Santa Clause came to town. When I was younger I marveled at the big SC and how when Dad took us the Lions Club Christmas party's, Kris Kringle himself showed up and never missed calling my name. How could that happen? Santa MUST be real. And often Santa would even come to our home and visit us. Well over the years I’ve grown and learned that the excitement of Santa and the holiday season doesn’t ever have to go away. I mean…………..let the goods time roll, right?

I became good friends with Santa and asked him to continue the tradition and visit my kids. So every year we throw a party and invite our friends and the guest of honor shows up and works his magic. It helps keep me young watching the children’s eyes glow with excitement and wonder, waiting for Santa to call their name. And one by one, sure enough, each kid is called by their name to sit on Santa’s lap and receive a gift.

Some of the older kids had to be talked into it.....

and others did not have to be talked into it, they came right up and found thier spot!!

It’s just a taste of course, we wouldn’t want to ruin the big day and the time when Santa really brings it home. This is what Christmas looks like at our house.

Jessica's neice Lacy and Alyvia dressed in thier princess attire..

Lacy is Danny's (Jessica's Brother) oldest Daughter

Confused yet?

I’m grateful for the time with my family and thank God that he blesses me with all I have. But, I'm glad its over for another year...... Its time to recoupe..

Lights.......Family..........Fun !!!

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

Its been a while since I've written anything, and we did actually enjoy the holiday season. We even had a chance to get out of town and spend time with family. And not to mention a little R&R. We got a room at a nice Hotel and spent lots of time in the indoor pool. Jessica had never seen the Christmas lights at temple square in SLC so we planned a 2 day trip just for that reason. We meet up with some of my cousins and made a great weekend of it.

We got so lost downtown because of the snow and I 'll admitt my internal compass was messed up, we ended up buying a Garmen GPS. It is so helpful and made the weekend alot easier. Because my cousin James knows everything about SLC and surrounding areas, we name the Garmen >>>>JAMES.....

Here are some of the pictures from around the Square....

It was snowing on us so we bundled up ... Kyler and Zac didn't even feel the cold. Tough Idaho kids..

My cousin Jason is a ball, you just can't help but laugh when he's around...

For those of you who don't know, Jessica Croxford, meet Jessica Croxford. My weekend was somewhat difficult every time I needed one, I got both. I started calling My Jessica, "Wife", so there was no confusion.

I guess it was one of the biggest storms in a long time. But being around the Temple and seeing all the lights, it was well worth it. We weren't the only ones out though, lots of people came out to enjoy the holiday season and enjoy the beauty of it all...

Alyvia had the right idea.......

staying in the stroller with blankets wrapped around her

I wish they made a Jon size stroller

Topped off with a great dinner at Red Lobster where the entire place was curious to find out what was so funny at our table, because of Jason no doubt, it was the perfect pre Christmas vacation.

KIDS HAVE AMAZING HEALING POWERS!!!

2008-12-14T16:46:00.000-08:00

It was a cold, snowing, blowing, miserable day. The perfect day to be cuddled up in sweats and sitting by the fireplace. No such luck for me. I spent my day investigating crashes and standing out in the cold. Dealing with people who have just experienced one of the bigger investments being demolished. Working a 10 hours shift not having enough time to stop by the house for a cup of hot chocolate. I felt like I was the only working officer around and did it all myself. Notice I said "FELT." I was a little discouraged. I was broken (Grumpy, grouchy and a little mad).

Nothing could help me now. I came home late because that's just how my day went. I pulled into the driveway and saw Kyler, behind my snow blower, and a perfectly clean driveway. WOW!!

Did I see that right? Did I bump my head? My son Kyler?

Kyler met me with a smile..... Guess what I did Dad? I went through the neighbor hood and clean snow off of driveways for people who couldn't do it themselves.......

SERVICE

A parent always wonders if their children really hear and listen when they talk. We wonder what our kids will grow up to be like. Will they grow up to be helpful, to serve others and to be a good neighbor? Today he was!!!!

So, needless to say my mood was changed...... I have been reminded by one of my Hero's, My Son, that although I spent my day in the cold....... At work............ Away from my Hot Choco and Family......... I was Helping others, in their time of need... when they couldn't do it themselves.....

AND SO I WAS HEALED!!

i lOVE yOU kYLER !!!

All I want for Christmas is my Sanity !!

2008-12-11T14:25:00.000-08:00

The last month has been so crazy around here I can't even think straight. With the boys playing Basketball and getting ready for the Holidays, I'm swamped. All week while I'm at work I look forward to my days off, but when I finally get one, my little princess keeps me so busy, nothing around the house gets done. Cooking, Cleaning, bath time and playtime. I have neglected hanging my Christmas lights and shoveling the snow. I AM getting better at ponytails !!

But I have stolen little time to work on something special for Jessica for Christmas. I can't give it away yet!

Kyler has been suffering from a broken Clavicle.... (Collar Bone) He had to miss most of the b ball season but stills offers support by going to the games. Kyler and his buddies were messing around at school and taking turns tackling each other while the other wasn't looking. I'm sure it was all in fun but when Kyler was tackled he landed wrong and SNAP !! Off to the DR. office.

He is a strong kid though, I can't keep him down. He does way more than the Dr. says he should. We'll just rest him up for baseball season.

Zachary is now finishing up the B Ball season. Saturday is his last game. Zac is the oldest and biggest on his team and a lot is expected from him. Sports don't come as natural to Zac as they do to Kyler but Zac is one of the best on the team. I'm not saying the other kids suck. I'm saying Zac trys hard and practices hard to be good. I have the chance to be an assistant coach for both Zac and Kyler so I get to practice them where they need it. Zac is a rebounding fool now. Sorry no picture of Zac crashing the boards.

Jessica and I attempted our very 1st ever Xmas card. It was a lovely experience. The lighting was difficult and the camera settings didn't seem to work out just right. But we made it through it as most of you know, You probably already have the card.

I was being used as a dummy and I wasn't maintaining my cool..

I don't even know how she does that.

Kyler and Zac were ready!!!!! Alyvia and DAD still messing around...

But when it all comes together, and we remember what the Christmas Season is all about.

GIVING

FAMILY

THE BIRTH OF CHRIST

(presents) no just kidding

You get PERFECTION !!!

Intro from Idaho

2008-11-12T08:36:00.000-08:00

Inspiration I believe is what drives us mostly to do what we do.

Having a recent Birthday Blog posted by The Morticians Daughter I was inspired by my FAVORITE sister ( its what she calls herself) to start this Blog. I soon realized it was a great way to keep in touch with family and friends, though miles apart. I'll admit, I didn't know what a BLOG was until reading Zandra's but I thought I'd give it a try.

I am a Husband and father of 3. I am married to the most beautiful woman alive, I believe. Jessica and I have been married going on 12 years now. The time has pasted so fast. We were married at the ripe old age of 18 (me) and 19 (her) so if you're counting we're still young. We live in Idaho and it's potato capital, Blackfoot. It is a great place to raise a family and enjoy life. Idaho has anything you like to do. Hunting, fishing, hiking , camping, swiming, skiing, and much more...

Kyler is my oldest son. His name was found from a middle name of my Favorite sister's son, Torbjor Ky. I liked Ky, so we changed it a little so we wouldn't be name stealing. Kyler is 11 and full of life. Kyler is some what like his father, easy to get along with, the class clown. Kyler is very athletic, it comes so natural for him. Having parents that both played sports through highschool Kyler is built for it. Kyler plays Football, Baseball and Basketball. Its almost to much to handle as a parent. As well as sports Kyler is beginning to enjoy Boy Scouts. He is a good student when he takes the time to complete homework. Kyler also enjoys one of my favorite pastimes in the summer, WAKEBOARDING!!!

Four years after Kyler, Zachary was born. Zachary never slows down. He goes from 100 miles an hours to not being able to wake him. Zac is a great kid. He is a good student and his teachers love him. Zac also palys Baseball and Basketball but I believe when we cut him loose on the Football feild we will see Zac shine. Zac is a roughneck. He is built like me but has more heart. Zac is a helpful boy and loves being in the mix.

Alyvia is the final chapter. Trying one last time we got our little princess. She took the opportunity to wrap her dad around her finger the moment she was born. Livi came almost 7 weeks early and decided to stay in the hospital for a while. This made dad and mom protect her even more. I tease Zac and Kyler about Livi getting everything she wants, but I think if you ask them dad's not teasing. She is so beautifull and I'm glad I've started my shotgun collection, because 14 years from now when boys come knocking for dates with my little girl, I'm gonna need them.

Jessica and I are truly blessed to live in a nice house we can call home. We enjoy spending time with family and it is important for both of us. Jessica works at Carol Holm Financial as a Adminstrative Assistant. She loves the ladies she works with but at times wishes she was at home with the kids. I work as a Sheriff's Deputy. Yep, I'm a cop. My schedule is great so I have alot of time to help out at home. I get much more time with my kids than alot of dad's do. I'm grateful I get to watch my kids grow and play and I get to enjoy thier lives with them. Not many dad's can say that.

And when a man loves and women, you get happily ever after. Unless the women doesn't love the man back then you get a restraining order.

And so far....... She loves me back !!!