Our Family

Hawaii

2009-12-01T21:20:00.001-08:00

Gage and dad taking a walk

We just returned from the most amazing family vacation we've ever taken. My little sister married her long-time sweet heart on the lovely island of Maui. This gave us the opportunity to go somewhere we probably would never have gone, and we loved every single moment of it. I think we'll probably be going back! It was amazing, eventhough it is Hawaii's winter. Highs in the mid-80's, lows in the 70's, a little breezy, a few amazing Hawaiian rains, great surfing waves to watch, and all the beauty we could imagine. Plus, about 60 family and friends on the island in various locations.

Aunt Sara, Uncle Kane, Grandma Joleena and Grandpa Shannon's hotel had great water slides and pools. We all enjoyed them!

Ash

Gunnar

Scuba diving lessons were given at our condo in the pool, then Ashtyn and her dad went on a scuba diving adventure in the ocean. What a great experience! They had a blast.

Ash, practicing in the pool.

Getting ready to hit the ocean!

We took a fantastic trip with Michael's family to the crater island of Molikini. While there we all had the chance to snorkel in the clearest water over a great reef filled with beautiful fish. We then got on the boat and went off the coast of Maui and were able to swim with very large sea turtles and see more beautiful fish on the reef. The day was beautiful and we all had an amazing time.

Austen, Myles and Gunnar

Our crew

Gunnar testing out his gear

Sisters

Of course, there was a wedding! It was the most amazing location located on the north side of the island near Haiku. It was at an old sugar mill which they've converted into a beautiful location for weddings and parties. The venue was undescribably beautiful. What a fun day! Welcome to the family...finally...Kane! We love you both.

Ash and Jill
Sara

Mom and her girls

Our family and Kaytlyn at rehearsal dinner

We played in the water a lot!!!

Ash boogie boarding

Gage and mom enjoying a beautiful evening

Gage wasn't a big fan of the sand or the ocean at first, but we worked on him and he was ok with it by the end.

Watching surfers on some huge waves on the North shore.

Sara, Grandpa and Gage

Aunt Sara making Abree into a mermaid

Grandma, Grandpa and Gage

Gage waiting patiently to get into the pool. Trying to get to his sisters and brother!

The favorite dancer at the luau!

Abree and Ash headed to hit the waves

Dad and Gunnar

Abree doing some water tricks

Taking in the luau

The wind loved to catch Gage's hair

Their favorite spot...the hot tub

More stunts

loved the water...both of them

Great aquarium!

watching the fish

This was a white shark. There were hammerheads, tigers and more sharks. Plus, baracuda, a few types of sting rays, and a bunch of jaks in this tank.

Love the jelly fish

Got to touch and feel

Abree with the most important accessory, the goggles. KK, too.

Sand sticking to his face, in his eyes, in his mouth...he hated it. Then I realized how much he had in his pants...poor guy!

Outside the door of our condo

Ash and Gunnar boardin'

Gunnar loved it until he got thrashed onto the beach and ate too much sand! Abree, too.

If you ask the kids, they'd probably say that the bumper boats were one of their favorites. Abree even got to drive her own! Oh, they giggled so much, including dad and Kaytlyn.

Abree this isn't a bull, it is a turtle. Oh, the farm girl!

There are about 300 more pictures I could share, but I would bore you. We are so blessed to have had this experience. If you are considering taking a family vacation, consider Maui! It was phenominal. Our kids were begging us to live there and enroll them in school as the saddness over took them leaving the island.

Congratulations, Sara and Kane!

Going PRIVATE

2009-12-01T21:00:00.000-08:00

Yes, I'm quite behind on my blog. Chasing 4 kiddos, keeping my hubby on-top of things, attempting to keep the house and farm in order, taking over our 4-H club, helping my little sis tie the knot, and so much more has kept me quite busy. I feel so guilty reading everyone else's blogs. I'm going to try and do some catch up in the weeks to come.

But, after Christmas our blog will be going private. If you would still like access to my blog, please let me know and I'll give you permission. Please e-mail me your address (if you have my e-mail) or leave a comment on this post and I'll add you to the list.

Enjoy your holiday season. I hope it is filled with laughter, love and joy. Remember the reason for the season...God so loved the world!

Sara's Bridal Shower

2009-08-24T15:58:00.000-07:00

Me, my mom and my little sister

Saturday we celebrated my sister Sara's upcoming wedding with a beautiful bridal shower at her future in-laws' home. It was a perfect day, with an amazing setting, and filled with great friends and family, not to mention nummy treats, too. So many special guests attended. It was just a wonderful day!

Tent by the pool.

The little girls took a break in the pool while we set things up earlier in the day.

About party time, the mosquitos began to arrive, univited.

Deanne and her girls

Sara and her classmates...all have been friends since elementary school!

Mom and darling Sue

Oh, those nummy cupcakes!

Ashtyn helping with gifts.

Abree playing hide and seek with a glass of lemonade in hand...caught her!

Guests watching the opening of gifts.

Sweet little Payton

Tamara, Joleen and Sue

Sara and Jill

Deanne enjoyingher grandson...we hope there will be more of those to come very soon!

So many special guests!

Deanne, Paula, Tamara and Sara

Ashtyn was begging to get into the pool, but mom wouldn't let her. Not everyone who wanted to swim had a suit, but Ash was willing to go in with the dress and give her suit to someone else!

Enjoying the beautiful evening, after all the guests had left and everything was cleaned up.

Feeding the fish after the party

Simply, a special day!

Gage is one!

2009-08-03T08:52:00.000-07:00

Yes, Gage is officially one! Well, actually I'm a little behind in getting this post done ... he is actually 13 months old today. We had a fantastic birthday party to celebrate his first birthday on July 5. We had tons of family and friends present to help honor the big event. The weather was beautiful, lots of marvelous food and, of course, amazing company.

Getting ready to dive into his own cake!

His birthday theme was a farm. He didn't care much for the bbq burgers and hot dogs, but loved the birthday cake, as you can see! He just kept eating...but once he hit "full" he let us know. He loved all his gifts, but once he spotted the LeapFrog Ride-on Train engine...nothing else could hold his interest.

Couldn't have a party without cupcakes!

It was a perfect day filled with many great moments and wonder. Gage had two great-grandparents present, his four grandparents, many aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends.

The birthday boy's cake

Since turning one, Gage has changed so much. He truly has turned into a toddler. On his birthday he was taking 3-5 steps at a time, within a week he was walking throughout the house without hesitation...now he is running trying to catch up with his siblings. His vocabulary has become so full...mom, dad, ashtyn, gunnar, "papa" for grandpa, "mahma" for grandma, most importantly "mo" for more, baba...and so much more. He is such a happy little guy who loves to giggle and is constantly on the run. He is now a climber who fears nothing... a little scary, we really have to watch him. Have caught him trying to climb out of the crib and climb up the fridge, literally dangling but hanging on! He is such a joy in our lives, as busy as he keeps us, we wouldn't have it any other way. I know his dad can't wait for harvest to be over so he can see more of him and his growth each day. I love that he still likes to cuddle with mom before he goes to sleep at night and that he gets so excited each morning when I get him out of his crib, he just lights up and is so happy!

His first horse and learning how to ride it, being taught by who other than Shane.

Hanging out with great-grandpa Ed.

The cool engine of fun!

The big boy is full and happy!

Harvest

2009-07-30T10:55:00.000-07:00

Today I woke the kids up earlier than usual and got them gussied up for some pictures in the wheat field. Had to do it today as they are all home and had to do it early to get the right sun. The combine drivers were kind enough to stop and help us out as well. I haven't had time to work with sepia or black and white yet, but am quite happy with the results.

Today marks the end of week 3 of harvest! We might get done next week!

We've been blessed with a safe and solid harvest so far, we pray it will continue.

Lake Trip

2009-07-23T16:50:00.001-07:00

Loving the lake!

Yeah, we made it back to the lake this year! Last year we missed it due to the anticipated arrival of our sweet boy. I've only missed the week at the lake three times in the past 38 years, two of those being due to babies being born...Ash and Gage. We all love our week at the lake each year around the 4th. What a treat!

Spent most of his time fishing

Relaxing on the water

Our boy turned one at the lake!

Catchin' some great air...you should see their faces on zoom...priceless!

A great morning fishing with Lloyd...a 5 1/2 and 3 1/2 lb fish in the mix!

He loved the water! Gotta love the turtle toy, too.

The weather was perfect and we were joined by my entire family throughout the week. Leonard was even able to join us for a few days. We spent the week fishing, boating, tubing, laying out, roasting smores, leisurely walks, seeing old friends and having great family time. Leonard and I skiied, mostly for the kids enjoyment and amazment...or should we say amusement, but we won't be posting pictures of that. We are so blessed to have such a great family experience with cousins, aunts, uncles, grandmas and grandpas each year.

The boys

Trickster

Picking out good bait

We have no phone service at the lake, although we do get 12 channels of cable and have a latte stand a short walk away. A bear was a common visitor to the garbage cans behind our cabin each night. The kids finally got to catch a glimpse of him this year as he stayed a long time and thoroughly enjoyed his nightly finds.

Everyone gets very sad when our week is done as it flies by so quickly. We love the setting, the activities, the company and the break. We can't wait for next year!!!

Ash is 11!

2009-07-22T06:09:00.000-07:00

Ash and her horse

In late June we celebrated Ashtyn's 11th birthday! Where has the time gone?! We are so proud to be the parents of this sweet, caring, giving young lady! She always tries hard in the things that she does and gives it her all. She means the world to her sister and brothers. She is friends with everyone and always on the go, being involved in everything she can. She loves her horse, her siblings, her steers, sports, cousins and friends, school (except for reading!), being a farm kid, tubing, church, singing, and being a bit of a dare devil. She is always willing to do chores (that don't include cleaning her room), although she drives the lawnmower really fast. She also drives the 4-wheeler and snowmobiles quite fast as well...a little concerning. Her baby brother lights up when she comes in the room, as does she when she sees him. They have quite a bond. Her little sister can't sleep when she's not home. She is very special to so many.

A little luau to celebrate!

How she chooses to spend her free time.

We are so blessed with a darling, beautiful daughter who has a heart of gold. She makes us smile every day and brings us great joy. We love her sense of humor and silliness! We even love when she gets really tired and grumpy! She is growing up way too fast but we are thrilled with the young lady she is blossoming into. We love you, Sunshine!

We're back!

2009-07-16T06:27:00.000-07:00

Ok, I'm sure you thought we fell off the face of the earth! But, we're still here! The past two months have been simply crazy, but great! We've been on a dead run and our computer lost its hard drive just before our 4th of July vacation, and we're finally back in function with a new sweetheart of a computer...yeah! And, the kids are thrilled with mom's computer all refurbished and set for them to have as their own.

Our friends hosted their "Feedlot Frenzy" as we like to call it to celebrate the end of branding season and friendships. Our family looks forward to this every year. Honestly, I think my kids would give up candy just to be able to go to this party. There is branding all day long (you are invited to work or simply watch), and once that is done everyone converges on the feedlot to an authentic Mexican dinner, beverages, music, friends, bon fire, pinata, and so much more. We love this tradition! Thanks, Kim and Shane!

Abree serving Harley some lemonade from Sydney's new lemonade stand which Butch built for her!

Every little girl's dream!

This was such a hit with the kids, they played all night long.

Sadly, Sydney didn't feel well that night and missed out on some of the fun.

Some of the boys, little and big, working on their skills after a long day of branding.

Dinner time!

May was crazy with so many end of the year activities. Abree finished preschool the third week of May. She loved preschool and her friends, but is so excited to start Kindergarten this fall.

Some of the preschool crew on the last day at a picnic in the park.

The weather wasn't great, but we made it fun.

Gunnar got his "man party" to celebrate his birthday by taking his friends to see the "Night at the Museum: Battle of the Smithsonian" on opening day. It was a hit! He got to take all the boys in his class plus another friend. Love boys...pizza, pop, popcorn and a movie and they are thrilled! Oh, we did add a little ice cream in there as well! I'm sure their parents were thrilled when I dropped them off.

The boys in their Darth Vader masks. Gunnar wanted his birthday theme to be Star Wars this year,
thus the masks. The boys had a great time!

The morning after the party, we loaded up the camper and headed out for Memorial Day Weekend. We spent the weekend at Shoshone along the river with Leonard's sister's family. The weather was amazing! We truly enjoy our time camping and are so happy with the purchase of our camper a few years ago. We are amazed at the space we have inside with a family our size. Gage even slept well this trip...yeah! Everyone had a wonderful time!! We were all sad to have to leave on Monday, but that is how it goes.

"Are we there yet?!" and "How much longer?!" was heard every mile by these two patiently waiting in the back seat. As you can see one was a little more chipper than the other!

Daddy's driving pulling the camper scared us!
Just joking, we were fooling around trying to make the trip go by a little faster.

One of the many activities the kids strummed up...love cousin time!

Archery

Poor, G! He got a nasty bug on day two. Once we could get his fever broke, he'd be off and running for a bit then he'd crash again. Thank goodness we packed Motrin and Tylenol, we had to use them both.

Little man with Auntie in his favorite location...the back pack!

Ashtyn's class ended the school year by performing a musical entitled, "King of the High C's," only the King's role was given to Ash so they changed the title to "Queen of the High C's." It was one of the best elementary school musical they've performed. The younger kids really got into it dressing in Pirate attire and the 5th grade class did a great job singing, dancing and acting out their lines.

Queen of the High C's

G is on white t-shirt, red scarf and eye patch, on end. He is still singing the songs.

Looking for mom in the audience! hahaha

Gunnar's class hosted a Dinosaur Extravaganza to show case their theme of the year. Each 1st or 2nd grader created and presented a power point demonstration, along with a drawing, of a specific dinosaur. Then the class performed a Dinosaur skit that was precious. Then the families were treated to a dessert social. They all did a fantastic job.

He asked his little sister to dance at Dinorella's ball!

May and June also kept us busy with baseball season. Abree's t-ball game schedule lasted 4 weeks while Gunnar's lasted 6 weeks. Their games were on the same night, but always different towns so that made things very hectic for awhile. A few times Leonard was in the field so I was shuffling kids with my friends and missing a game while attending the other. It just broke my heart to not have someone there cheering for them, but know that my friends did a fine job in my place. Sadly we were relieved when Abree's season came to an end because then we didn't have to shuffle kids, have two kids in different towns across the county, and miss any more games. We could just enjoy.

T-ball star! You know they won every game!? (She doesn't realize that everyone bats no matter what!)

Following her siblings, she knows all about ready position. This was her stance every second of being in the field! She'd get tired on occasion and fall over.

Playing 2nd

G's group had so many kids they were split into two teams. G's team won every game except the game they had to play against his friends, the other local team. It was a great season. He learned so much defensively. And, his hitting really came around.

The last day of school Gunnar had two friends out to play! I looked outside and the water balloon fight had turned into a mud bath. They were completely covered and having a blast! I frantically attempted to get their clothes clean before their parents picked them up. What a day they'll always remember!

Check out those muscles!

In mid-June our local 4-H extension office hosted "Fishing for Kids." I signed Gunnar and Abree up and we went a fishing. For $5, each child received a t-shirt, a lure, hooks, and a pole! Plus, they got to fish on a well-fed pond for 30 minutes and limit out on 3 fish. It was great fun and a beautiful day to boot! We were in and out of there in no time. And, to mom's happiness, the sheriff's office cleaned the fish for us to bring home and eat.

Getting bait!

Fish on!

This was as close as I could get her to her fish out of water. She like to bait it, cast, reel it in, but once that baby was out of the water she ran to the fence behind us!

In late June we had a very crazy week...Ashtyn's birthday, our niece and cousin Bailey arriving for a month's stay from California, VBS (which I did the music and program for), and Ashtyn participated in the WSU Men's basketball camp. YES, men's! The WSU women haven't had a camp for the last 3 years so I called the men's dept and asked if she could join them. After some discussion, they warmly welcomed her...and what a fantastic experience it was. She went with her friend Caleb who is 9. It was open to boys ages 8-14. When she arrived she was pleased to discover that two other girls her age had also signed up, one of them being the new WSU head coach's daughter. The two of them hit it off...she gave Ash her dad's cell phone to call her but we've requested Ash not use that too often!

Last weekend we found ourselves at Relay for Life. This year I was joined by Ashtyn, Gunnar, Abree and my niece Bailey. We stayed until 6 am when Gunnar got a nasty stomach ache. It was a beautiful evening and we simply camped out on the ground. It was wonderful! We walked a lot, talked a lot and felt good about helping other out. My dear friend Laurie who is fighting like crazy against the big C was not able to join us. She just wasn't feeling well enough. We put her name on a chair in our camp to remind everyone that her name was with us in spirit. I just know she will be with us next year!!!!

Bay and Ash waking at 4:30 am!

Our summer has been filled with camps, swim lessons, working on 4-H projects, friends, sleep overs, cousins, chores, and now harvest...yes, we started harvest last week! (more to come on that!) Abree will FINALLY show her first animal at the fair this year. Once again, she has been waiting ever so patiently for her turn. Kim brought her a bottle calf for the fair last week. For two days she couldn't talk about anything else. Abree is in love with peanut, and can you blame her?! Peanut weighs about 50 lbs and is just precious. Peanut got a little sick over the weekend due to weather change and her lack of body heat. Shane came over and dr'ed her, we're giving her electrolytes as she'll take them and she is on the mend, we hope! Ash's big 1200 lb steer Bubba sits right next to his gate so he can be near Peanut in the pen next to him. I think bubba thought he was a horse since all he has to look at is Ash's horse every day. Now that he's seen peanut, I think he's realized he's a cow.

Peanut's first halter experience.

Abree and Peanut

And through this all, we've bittersweetly watched our sweet baby boy turn into a toddler. Not sure where the time has gone. He was such a trooper through his siblings' games and events, traveled well to everything we did. He eats anything and everything, although some times if it is a weird texture he tries it, takes it out and looks at it and then tries it again. He drinks from a sippee cup all day long. Has 8 teeth. He love to smile, giggle and make silly noises. He adores his big sisters and brother and just lights up when he sees them. Toys don't interest him much, but everything he shouldn't be into does. He loudly voices his opinion and thoughts if it isn't going as he wishes. My parents have proudly given all our children nicknames, and after keeping him alone for a recent weekend, he came home with his own name from them...Dennis, yes as in Dennis the Menace! He truly can destroy anything and loves to be curious. And he is loud beyond compare to all of their other 6 grandchildren. He can slide into the slightest hole and get stuck, can find things you didn't know existed. He truly keeps us on our toes. Thank goodness I have older children to help keep track of him and allow me to get a few things done here and there. At the end of each day when we are both exhasuted, I relish in cuddling with our sweetie as he snuggles and falls fast asleep in my arms...there is nothing better! He is such a blessing in our lives and would have him no other way.

Always smiling!

Dennis???!!!

The big kids play on the computer, why can't I?!

Happy Birthday, Gunnar!

2009-05-16T13:50:00.001-07:00

Big 8 year old!

Yesterday we celebrated Gunnar's 8th Birthday! Wow, I can hardly believe he is already 8! He has been counting down the days for months. He woke up to find a new bike...he thought he was going shopping for one today. Lucky guy, had great weather to help enjoy the day. We were able to take his class outside for a Darth Vader pinata. He chose ice cream cone cupcakes and orange pop to share with his classmates. (Pop is a treat to my kids. They don't get to drink it at home.)

Gunnar let Abree sit by him during his class party. (Don't you love the curlers!)

Trying to find Darth Vader for a whack!

Birthday Boy's class and little sister after the pinata.

Going to his sister's dance recital wasn't his first choice of birthday activities. But through the year's he's grown accustomed to sharing his birthday with dance recital week and the opening week of baseball.

After the recital, we all raced back to our house for cake, ice cream and PRESENTS! He would have been just fine skipping the cake and ice cream! :) He was spoiled rotten with gifts and family to share the special day.

Opening presents!

Gunnar is such a great kid! While he can be stubborn at times, he is very caring. He adores his baby brother and thinks we should have more boys...triplet brothers is his request. And, in our small house, he's offered to share his room with them all! Oh, Gunnar! He amazes me how focused he can be. He can sit for hours and work on something without distraction...Legos, puzzles, home work, reading. By noon today he had all the Lego sets he received yesterday, completely put together! Gunnar loves reading, school, learning, sports and his animals. He has a memory that is incredible. He informed my mom last night that she used the same wrapping paper on his gift last year...Rainman?!!? We all just shook our heads. If mom needs help, Gunnar is always willing to do it and does it well. He is a great helper. Though he doesn't move too quickly in the mornings and often takes a bit to wake up and be happy, he is generally an easy-going kid, who occassionally likes to argue his point. And, best of all, he still likes to give his mom great hugs and an occassional smooch.

1st day of 1st Grade

1st day of preschool

at the lake

G and Black Jack

I love being your mom, Gunnar! I'm so proud of the kid you are. Won't you be 7 one more time?!! (our inside joke!) Keep up your hard work and diligence buddy!

May being 8 be absolutely great!

One Crazy Week!

2009-05-16T12:04:00.000-07:00

Abree jumped in with Gunnar just after blowing out the candles! What a night they both had!

This past week was one of the busiest on record for the Aune family...and we survived! Every Sunday night I sit down and fill in our weekly schedule for the fridge, so we can keep track of everything, not miss activities, and remind Leonard where we are when he comes home to an empty house. Not much room was left on the schedule this week. For some reason, this week every year is just jam packed. Leonard was in the field most of the week, but finally they finished the big spring push just before another big rain! I just love spring on the farm, it is so beautiful!

Mondy found me starting the crazy week with a much needed massage I'd received for my birthday (thanks Kim!). It was amazing! As the week went by, I realized how great of an idea this truly was. Then Abree started her dance recital rehearsals from 3-6 pm in Colfax. So two trips to Colfax today.

Tuesday found at Abree's 1st t-ball game. She's waited so long for her first game. The little sweetie has sat through so many of her sister and brother's games and events, that she was thrilled that it was finally her turn. As we loaded up (we had to travel 1 hour to Rosalia for the game) she asked her dad, "If I try my best but lose, is that ok?!" Oh my goodness, it just melted my heart! What has she heard us say to have her say that? Unfortunately, the weather wasn't very cooperative and we sat in the car for the first 15 minutes waiting for a big black cloud to dump on us. Then we got out and those tough little kid played their first game in 46 degree weather with an amazingly strong wind. We were still cold when we got home. Gunnar had baseball practice in LaCrosse. Thank you Jamie for getting him there.

Running to 3rd!

Wednesday found Abree in Colfax at dance recital rehearsal again from 3-6. She just loved seeing all the other little girls' costumes and watching them practice. I hired a babysitter to stay with Abree after I dropped her off and got her dressed (the babysitter brought her home, too) so I could race home for Ashtyn's DARE graduation. They served us pizza dinner and then had a wonderful graduation. Ashtyn wrote a great speech about what she had learned during her DARE training. We are so proud of her! Sadly, I teared up as she is growing way too fast and I realized that this is the first of a few graduation/promotion experiences to come in the next 7 years! (Oh, and as I was loading the kids up to head for recital rehearsal, got in the suburban to find the battery dead. Think our littlest daughter may have been playing in the car! Thank goodness the pick-up was here, after a quick dance with a few carseats and other necessities, we were able to get off in time not to be too late or lectured by the instructor...oh, but we got 10 miles down the road and I was going through everything we needed and we forgot the tap shoes...had to turn around and head back home to get those. Thank goodness all the state patrolmen were off duty after the big WSU graduation weekend they had last week which filled their quotas!)

Giving her DARE speech!

Her class

Thursday found me loading up the crew and heading to Spokane for dentist appoinments. Got a little shopping done while we were there, too. We had GREAT dentist appointments. NO CAVITIES x 3!!!! That never happens in our family. I walked out of the office in shock that I didn't have an appointment slip in my hand for next week. We are so lucky, our dentists' office is great and filled with awesome hygenists. They are so good with my kids. My kids get excited to visit them. We've been going there for years and they've watched our family grow. One gal even remembered Gage's name from our last visit when he was a few months old. She came over and commented on the "Aune cheeks" he inherited and squeezed them. We found ourselves quickly loading up and heading home on a mission. T-ball game at 5:15 and baseball practice at 5:00. Had to dress, get gear and get to the fields...yeah, this time in the same locations!

In ready position, the one with the pink mitt. Yes, she is either in ready position or sitting down because her little legs are tired of ready position.

Friday found us celebrating Gunnar's 8th birthday. How is it possible he is 8 already!??! I headed into the school at 10 to put Abree's hair in curlers for her recital (not the event of choice for Gunnar to celebrate his 8th birthday, but he survived), did my weekly volunteering at school 1st and 2nd grade spelling tests, picked Abree up from preschool, had Gunnar's birthday party at school, came home and put the kidlets down for a nap, prepared for the evening's events, mowed my very tall, out of control lawn, dressed Abree up with curls and a little make up to make her sparkle, watched a great recital (Ash really misses it this year. But with jr high sports there was no way!), came home and celebrated an 8th birthday with grandparents, aunts and cousins. The final guest left about 10:30 pm. Whew! What a day! But everything about it was great!

Abree did a great job tap dancing to the "Yetti Stomp" (from the Backyardigans). She has been waiting so long to dance in her first recital. She patiently watched all of her big sister's dance practices and recitals for years, always to ask, "When can I dance like that?" And, FINALLY it was her turn. She knew her steps and had a great crowd of supporters. When tucking her in I asked what she liked best, and her reply was "the flowers!" Thank you McKays and Flemings.

At his class party

Got the dancin' shoes on!

Waiting for the music to start.

Today the kids are branding calves with their dad and our dear friends on the last day of their branding season. Tonight they'll host a large branding party to celebrate the end. We will have a smorgasboard of authentic Mexican cuisine, a pinata (thanks Aunt Sara for visiting East Pasco for us, the kids had a great time stuffing it this moring), live music, a bon fire, and about 100 of our closest friends. It is a great gathering every year! Watch the blog for pictures...no guarantee when!

We found ourselves saying lots of prayers this week as our 11 year old cousin underwent a biopsy on his femur. The surgeons felt good about what they found, hoping it is just a stress fracture. The lab results will come soon. YEAH! We continue to pray that the results will be positive. You are so brave, Tyler!

Whew! What a week! Today I'm finding myself not motivated to do much but relax and enjoy Gage. Poor guy didn't get much mom time this week. Thank goodness WSU is out, and I was able to get a great babysitter to stay with him. And, thank you to G'ma Lola for keeping him a couple times this week to avoid the cold, icky weather. He is so lucky to have people who love him so much.

Our reader!

2009-05-03T17:13:00.000-07:00

Deep into one of his books!

Ok, I never dreamt I'd have an avid reader as a child. But some how it happened. Gunnar loves to read! His dad and I can't figure out who he got it from, as neither of us are addicted to reading novels. Sure we read, but it is the sports page, People magazine, newspaper, scrapbooking or cooking magazines, but not book after book. We figure he has already passed us both in number of books he has read. We are so proud of him and thrilled that he has found this love.

Gunnar has fallen in love with reading! Our first grader (I was going to say little, but he has grown so much in the past few months I can hardly say he is little any more!) wants to read all the time. In the car, when he is supposed to be asleep at night, as soon as he gets home from school, any free moment he has. He can read in gym during basketball games, nothing distracts him. This past February he discovered the Magic Tree House chapter book series. Since then he has read 32 of them! He started with the original 28 and was bound and was determined to read all of them before continuing on to the "Merlin Missions" portion of the series (they are a little longer...about 110 pages each). We searched friends' home libraries, his classroom, the school library, the county library, and finally the Spokane Public Library to find them all. And, last week he did it! Now he is conquering the Merlin Missions, 4 down this week and 10 to go! Some days he'll read two books a day. Just amazing!

He has a list of the Magic Tree House books that he keeps track of as he reads them.

I'm quite embarrassed to say that once in awhile, I have to take reading away from him for a consequence...isn't that crazy! Oh, he just came into the office ... just finished another one this afternoon! On to the next one. If you have any ideas of great chapter book series to get him hooked on next, please share (about a 3rd/4th grade reading level).

Gage is 10 months old!

2009-05-03T16:30:00.001-07:00

One of our sweet boy's newest pictures!

Oh, my goodness! My baby is officially into the double digits ... where has the time gone?!!! And, boy, oh, boy has he changed this past month. Gage has become mobile. The first week of crawling was pretty cute. He looked like a little robot going back and then realizing what it took to go forward. His actions were very thought out and slow. But, now, he is cruising! He has discovered every corner of the house and can make it from one end to the other in about 1 1/2 minutes. He is also standing up on things and starting to walk around them. Just crazy! Where did my baby go?! Our lives have changed drastically...constant watch, baby proofing, gates. Now that he has discovered mobility, he no longer sits contently to snuggle with mom. He is moving, looking for action, afraid to miss anything. Matter of fact, the other day I put him in his crib so I could put my contacts in my eyes without worrying about him and he fell asleep ...sitting up! He wouldn't give into laying down with his snuggly blankets. Now, he was sitting up, head bobbing and sleeping. It was hilarious and I caught it on film.

Gage just loves to crawl. He is so proud of himself!

He can finally chase his sisters and brother around.

One of his favorite new toys is his sister's kitchen. He spends forever emptying every cupboard and drawer. Doesn't he look like a big boy!

Teething was also a big issue this month. Gage got his bottom two teeth a few months ago. Then he got his top side tooth first, followed by his front tooth next to it. Even though they were a little off kilter in his mouth he still discovered how to grind them! He was quite lopsided until this last week when he got the other two top teeth to match.

Gage and his top two teeth.

Not only has he discovered mobility, but he is also eating mostly table foods, plays patty-cake, and so much more. He is all boy!!! And, I wouldn't have it any other way.

Our little rock star!

Gage has brought such joy to our lives. Each day we thank God for this gift. He is such a good natured little guy who makes us all smile and reminds us it is the little things that are important every day. What fun he has brought to our home and family!

Celebrating Easter!

2009-04-13T14:34:00.001-07:00

He has risen! He has risen indeed!

The kids

Easter is my favorite celebration of the year! It is a time to rejoice in Jesus Christ and the proof that He is absolutely awesome! He gave his life for you and me, everyone! He proves His love for us each and every day and I'm so thankful for our Savior that gave his son to us. His death and resurrection provides us with knowledge of eternal life...WOW!!!!! How lucky are we?!!

I love that Easter falls in the spring of the year! It is always so glorious come rain or shine, and we had a little of both this year. I was just glad we didn't have to fully winterize the kids' Easter outfits this year!

Saturday was quite chilly for the Easter Egg Hunt in the park, but we weathered the storm. Gage had help from his big sister Ash (too old for the hunt), Abree required holding mom's hand or she'd just watch, and Gunnar could care less if anyone was around, he was on a mission. (You won't find pictures of Gunnar's hunting adventures at the park as he was long gone by the time the others found a few eggs and I wasn't running to catch up with him!)

Gage's 1st hunt with help of big sis

Abree after she picked up a few eggs and let go of Mom's hand.

Saturday evening was egg coloring at our house once dad got home from tractor work. The kids were antsy all day and did a great job coloring and experimenting with color mixing. Gage and dad chose to hang out on the floor and practice crawling instead of coloring.

Me and my girls (photo courtusy of Gunnar)

Bunny ears and Eggs...

Working on making one beautiful!

Gage and dad working on crawling while we colored eggs.

Sunday morning I got up to make cinnamon rolls very early and our early riser Abree joined me very anxious for the day's events. But, I wouldn't let her wake anyone until after 7. The kids ran, giggled and enjoyed a beautiful sunny morning of egg collecting. Their offering for church came from the lute that was collected in the "golden" eggs found that morning. They thought it was a great idea!

The Easter Bunny brought her the new Taylor Swift CD...how did he know it was just what she wanted?

Gage trying to get it by himself!

With baskets full, G and Abree

Church was full...yeah, we love it that way! Leonard's sister Sharron and her husband Brad joined us. Easter services are so uplifting and warming. I just love it! Everyone dressed up, happy, rejoicing in the Lord...what could be better!

After church we loaded up and headed to Othello for a delightful brunch with my parents and my brother's family. It was very low key and fun! We had way too much food as always, but man was it GOOD!

Rylee and Abree filling the cupcake tree for brunch with their polkadot dresses.

The grandkids lined up for their Easter surprise from Grandma Joleen.

Love how intent they are on what she has to say!

The McKay Grandkids

God is great!

Happy 60th Birthday, Grandpa!

2009-04-13T12:19:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday, Grandpa!

Gunnar, Ashtyn, Myles, Grandpa, Abree, Gage and Rylee
(Missing was Austen)

My dad celebrated his 60th Birthday on April 8. As is tradition, the celebration included dinner and birthday cake! It worked perfectly that we could join everyone. What a fun evening it was! I feel so lucky to live close enough to be able to participate in most of the family events.
Yeah for my kids!
Getting ready to blow out candles!

Make a wish...with lots of little help!

My dad with his parents and sister!

Thank you, Dad/Grandpa, for being such a wonderful dad/grandpa! You are a caring and giving person. We are so lucky to have you in our lives to be a role model and friend! WE LOVE YOU!

Spring is finally here!

2009-04-05T17:43:00.000-07:00

Yeah! Spring weather is finally here for us to enjoy. It was a long cold spring break, but the last 3 days made up for it completely. The entire day yesterday was spent outside enjoying the weather. The first part of the day was spent riding horses. The kids have been waiting all winter for a good day to ride, and they got it. Abree and Gunnar even to got join in on the fun with Ashtyn and her friends Lexi and Torrie.

Gunnar brushing Otis and getting ready to saddle.

Abree riding Otis, she's been waiting all winter! Sarita was so wonderful with her during "lessons!"

Gunnar riding in the arena. He likes to trot and doesn't want to get off!

Ashtyn and her friends heading to the arena to ride.

Gage taking in the action! Oh, I'm a lucky mom...he loves it outside.

Torrie on Pansy, Ash on Pali, and Lexi on Cruz.

Once that was done we headed to work calves. The kids just love branding season. Our friends work calves the "old fashioned" way...no chutes or electric branding irons needed. They gather on horse back, seperate and then rope the calves and drag them to the fire. Yes, we brand with a fire that warms the branding irons! Our kids just love tackling the calves once their roped, holding them down while their being shot, cut and branded, and then chasing them back up the pen. Gunnar this year and last really got into being the "nut" collector...yuck! He was very focused and didn't miss a bull calf, and was right there to check each calf to see if it was a heifer or bull. Needless to say, he was quite dirty when he got home, as were all of them.

(Our friends will do this every Saturday and Sunday from now until early May...the kids will join in when their schedule allows.)

Getting their instructions from Butch!

Torrie, Ashtyn and Lexi pushing calves up to find their mamas.

Gage's first horse ride with Shane, his Godfather!

Gunnar's hand off from Leo.

Ash and Lexi taking a break.

Gunnar quite proud of his bloody hands.

Abree's happy place. She is quite content watching the action from the fence. "Mom, next year when I'm six, I'll help and get in there!"

Caleb roping a calf and draggin' it in.

Ash and Caleb holding down a calf while Shane, Monte and Butch do their work.

Spring is my absolute favorite season...the green wheat, sunsets, warmer weather, flowers! It is fantastic! Just the inspiration we need after so much "inside" time this winter. What a great day!My kitchen window view just before dusk.Sunset from the front yard! Isn't it loverly!??!

Our Big Scare...5 years ago

2009-03-25T12:53:00.000-07:00

I can not believe that it has already been 5 years. One of the scariest days of our lives seems like it was so recent. The images and day's happenings are still so vivid in my mind. On March 25, 2004, our 16 day old baby weighing about 6 1/2 lbs was airlifted to Spokane from Pullman. She had RSV and was a very sick little girl. I remember the pediatrician telling me in his office, as we waited for the ambulance to transport her to the hospital, "You have a very sick little girl. We're going to do everything we can to save her." Nothing a mother wants to hear.

Day 2 in ICU, getting a break from the tent for a routine "beating" (pounding on the back and sides to break up the goop in her lungs) as part of her respiratory therapy. Doesn't she look so small and helpless?!

I think one of the most difficult parts was that I was alone. Leonard was in the field and at the time, we had no cell service in the LaCrosse area. He had no idea his little girl was even in Pullman, I took her on a minute's notice as my motherly instinct just knew she needed to go. I had to have Tricia go and find him in the field to tell him we were headed to Spokane. By the time he got in the car and drove, he got stopped in construction just outside of Pullman and saw us fly out of town. It was so scary for him! I was so relieved to arrive in Spokane at Sacred Heart and find my sister-in-law in the hallway waiting for us to arrive. (If I remember accurately, I fell into her arms like a ton of bricks!)

The dr in Pullman was amazing, and to this day he adores Abree and the progress she has made. Just this last week he gave her the biggest hug and told her how happy it makes him to see her so healthy. He always just smiles when he sees her and shakes is head in amazement. He often says that he thinks of her and the scare she gave us. He was incredible throughout the entire ordeal. He was with us in the ambulance, he wouldn't leave the emergency room, he walked us to and helped us load in the helicopter, he called daily in Spokane to check on her! His dedication is admirable! (Don't want you to think I was a bad mom, but I had taken her into the dr 3 days prior and they told me she had a simple cold. Each day I would call the dr's office to check in and tell them what was going on and the nurse would tell me, "Keep doing what you're doing, she'll get better soon!")

After a very big fight from our little angel, an amazing God on our side answering many prayers, wonderful dr's, their knowledge, and skills who worked so hard to help her, and a great support system, after a few days Abree grew stronger and stronger and was finally able to return home after about 11 days. Those first few days were quite tough, but she pulled through!

I still cannot thank enough all who helped us through this challenging time. Our families who jumped in and took care of the Ashtyn and Gunnar, my sister-in-laws (AKA "The Aunties") who would spend days and evenings with me at the hospital making sure she got the best possible care and taking care of both of us so Leonard could continue to farm at such an important time (and relieve me so I could get a shower!), the community members who jumped in to help farm so Leonard could spend time with us in Spokane, too. And, everyone who prayed, visited, called, and just cared! We cannot thank you enough and will never forget! We are so blessed by those that surround us!

Out of ICU and getting stronger each day in hopes of going home.

And, look at her today! Spunky, healthy and full of life...we call her the firecracker! She has been so fortunate not to show any signs of asthma or other respiratory struggles, which are common in RSV babies. Research has shown that babies with RSV within their first month of life are less likely to have asthma...so far that has held true. She is so lucky! But, what a scare she gave us! Hopefully that is the only scare she'll give us in her lifetime, as it was big enough to use up all her "scare" category at only 16 days old!

Thank you God for giving us a chance to raise our little girl as you wish us to!

God is good!

Want a special gift?

2009-03-20T17:00:00.000-07:00

The first 5 people to respond to this post will receive something made by me for you. I get to pick what I make for you, but it will be especially for you.

**But here's the deal:

~1 I make no guarantees that you will like what I make!

~2 What I create will be just for you.

~3 It will be done sometime this year.

~4 You have no clue what it will be.

~5 I reserve the right to do something extremely strange.

**The catch?The catch is that you must repost this on your own blog and offer the same to the first 5 people who do the same on their blog.The first 5 people to do so and leave a comment telling me they did will win a FAB-U-LOUS homemade gift by me!!

So come and play along!

Thought I'd include a fun picture with this blog...wish I could say they are admiring something "special" that I made, but they're not. :) Thought this was a great picture of Ashtyn and her dad, and Auntie Sharron, of course! Isn't it sweet?!

8 months old!

2009-03-17T18:14:00.000-07:00

Yes, Gage is now 8 1/2 months old...I'm a little late on the post! He is growing and changing so quickly. I wish I could use my freeze buttonmost days, but rejoice in the big boy things he is doing each day. He has become quite a big boy this last month holding his own bottle, scooting where he wants while sitting up, pushing himself backwards almost in the crawl position. He has even discovered a scream or holler to get our attention. I guess in family our size he's decided he must be loud to be heard and get his message across. He continues to bless our lives daily with is sweet smile, super silly stand-up hair and kissable cheeks. We thank God constantly for giving us this bundle of joy.

Playing with his Zebra friend Ryan. They have become quite good friends and spend lots of time together.

Gage was very upset on his sister's birthday when Mom took away the wrapping paper he wanted to eat!

Like Father, like son!

Gage was hollering the other day and I found him in the living room underneath Ryan. Obviously, they decided to have a wrestling match and Ryan won this match! As you can see he wasn't too upset about it.

Drinking his bottle like a big boy while the rest of the kids got ready for school!

Turning 5 in Princess Style!

2009-03-13T11:39:00.000-07:00

Abree celebrated her 5th Birthday this past week in grand Princess style! The celebration covered 4 straight days of parties and fun. This year she chose a princess theme, which is quite fitting for our small statured, full personalitied little girl. It is so hard to believe that she is already a whole hand! Just seems like yesterday she surprised us with her early arrival and was so tiny! She has brought such joy to our lives.

We love her spunkiness, her bright cheery personality as she is the first person out of bed in our house each day, her love of wearing dresses, quick wittedness, that her boyfriend is her dad (and Taylor Rochestie which we know is impossible!), her desire to "go" everyday with anyone goineg any where and asking first thing each day "Where we are going today?", her need to cuddle and promising to cuddle even when she is big, her love of being a big sister finally, her excitement about finally showing a calf this year, her love of singing the clean up song but being sly enough to get out actually picking anything up, her desire to look good and wear numerous outfits everyday and thinking that since she wore everything it all must be dirty and goes right into the laundry. Oh, Abree you are special! We love you, our Peanut, Snippy, Missy, Rooty!

Proud to be 5!

Last weekend we found ourselves in Yakima cheering on our cousin and niece Lyndsey as her team, the Freeman Scotties, played in the State A Basketball Tournament. (Congratulations on your 3rd place finish, Lyns!) We were able to stay for two nights in a great hotel with a pool with Grandma and Grandpa Aune, aunts, uncles and many cousins. Swimming, playing, basketball, what more could a little girl want for her birthday. After the games on Saturday, we used a conference room at the hotel, ordered in pizza for about 25 of Abree's extended family members and then celebrated with a great cake! (It was so much better than standing in line with our crew at a restaurant for hours!) This was the first birthday Grandma and Grandpa Aune have gotten to share with Abree, they are usually in Palm Springs during March. But, they flew home for a few days to watch the basketball playoffs! YEAH!

The celebration at the hotel.

Grandma Lola and Gage enjoying some pizza! Mmmmm!

Her first birthday celebration with Grandpa Gene and Grandma Lola! We loved having them home and can't wait for them to return for the summer in April.

Sunday we found ourselves driving through Othello and stopped for another grand 5th Birthday celebration at Grandma Joleen and Grandpa Shannon's house. Once again Abree was surrounded by great-grandparents, grandparents, aunts, uncles and cousins (and a friend) who love her dearly. It was a wonderful day and we thank Grandma and Grandpa for sharing their house with us and hosting this special event.

This year, Abree was very embarrassed when we sang Happy Birthay to her, at all her parties she hid her eyes! Here with Gunnar, Rylee and Ashtyn.

Abree was thrilled with her new presents. All of it was so girly and "her"! She loves her new shades.

All dolled up with her new gifts and ready to do some yard work while looking good. She is practicing how she'll help mom this year by watering her flower balloon!

On her REAL birthday, Monday, March 9, Abree was awoken with the traditional birthday breakfast in bed. She was thrilled and could hardly stand it. When I woke her up, she looked at me with bright eyes and said, "Am I five?!!!" When I said yes, she thought for a minute, and replied, "I don't feel any different!" with a big smile on her face!

Pancakes!

Mom had the privilege of teaching Abree's preschool class today. She chose to wear her new pink dress Auntie Sara gave her. At school she had a party with cupcakes, Italian sodas and, of course, a princess pinata! After school she just crashed from celebration overload, as you can see! Yes, she still sucks her thumb and sleeps with "Nanny," her special blanket. I'm personally fine with her continuing to use it, don't want her to grow up!

After her nap, Abree had dance class in Colfax. We went early and took a fancy cupcake to Great-Grandma Bell. We sang to Abree and even blew out a candle. Abree is 5 this year and Grandma Bell will be 95 next month, and they are very special friends!

That night Abree got to open her big present that had been wrapped for a week on the mantel. She could hardly wait, but was quite disappointed it wasn't the baby she had been wanting. It was a cupcake tree to go with her pink princess apron and pink princess spatula.

Once she woke the next morning and found her cupcake tree filled with cupcakes, she was thrilled with it. And, said, "Oh, Mom, I love it, thank you!!!" Abree loves to help mom bake.

And the FINAL princess celebration was on Tuesday, the 10th. Abree had her first party with friends! She chose to have a princess tea party. Each of the girls dressed in their princess attire of choice, and her friend Tanner, eventhough it was a princess tea party insisted he wanted to attend, dressed in his Sunday's best with a tie and all. They were just adorable! Abree chose to wear the precious white dress Grandma Lola and Grandpa Gene gave her for her birthday. The tea party was great! We had fancy cookies (which Abree helped me make), flower cupcakes, cheese, crackers, grapes, pink m&m's, mints and tea (lemondade and apple juice). We played some fun pincess games...pass the tiara, pink marshmallow race, and pin the crown on the princess.

Waiting for the guests to arrive!

Tanner, Sydney, the Birthday Girl, Grace and Lilly!

Happy 5th Birthday, Abree Ryanne! We love you! Thank you for the joy, love and excitement you bring to our lives each day. You are special, Aber Baber!

(Whew, what a busy week of parties! Unfortunately, Abree fell ill Wednesday, from exhaustion I'm sure, and has been down for the count since. But, she had a great 5th birthday!)

GO COUGS!!!

2009-02-28T20:46:00.000-08:00

As many of you know we are avid WSU Cougar fans in our house. Being fortunate enough to live 45 minutes from campus, we have season tickets for football and basketball. Over the past 5 years our entire family has fallen in love with the Cougar basketball team, players, coaches (who couldn't like Tony Bennett!) and the newfound atmosphere of Cougar basketball. If you are an alum, you know how deep and wonderful Cougar pride can be...some might call it bizarre and insane...but we LOVE it! When your toddler can name starting line ups, some may call it obsessive! We call it being faithful fans! Our kids may show up tired for school on Friday mornings after a late Thursday night game, may have to miss friends' birthday parties to attend a game, but it is always well worth being at the games.

The past week has been phenominal for the Cougar basketball team. They beat highly ranked UCLA in California for only the 2nd time in the last 51 years, beat Arizona on Thursday night with a very strong margin, and then toppled ranked Arizona State this afternoon for the second time this season in the last seconds of an OVERTIME game! It has been a great week to be a Cougar. So much fun, so much pride, so much excitement!

Today was especially exciting, as it was Senior Day. Living where we do, we can occassionally run into the players in the grocery store, eating at a restaurant, in the car next to us at stop lights or on a street corner. Our seats are near the players' tickets, so we've grown accustomed to seeing the family and friends of the players from time-to-time. My kids have been looking forward to this special game all week.

So at noon I loaded up my suburban with 6 kids (Gage stayed home with a babysitter), a good friend and we headed to watch our Cougars and celebrate our dandy seniors who've been a joy to watch and change the culture of Cougar basketball! And, what a game we saw!!!!!

As the game ended on an exciting final shot made by Taylor Rotchestie with a couple seconds to go in OT, the students swarmed the floor along with the players family and friends who'd gathered. My kids all asked if they too could join the celebration on the floor! I said, "Go for it!" So the kids hit the floor, yes all 6 of them...and that was the beginning of a great experience for them...

Gunnar and his best friend Trey watching warm-ups! We always try to get to the games an hour before tip off so the kids can get snacks and watch the players warm-up.

After much of the crowd left the court, the players mingled on the court one last time! The five seniors wanted a group picture in their uniforms. And, yes that is Ashtyn just to the left.

(Just seconds after this pose, my friend's 4 year old Tanner ran up in front of the boys wanting to join in on the picture. So #10 T. Rochestie picked him up and Tanner is in most of the parents' group picture of the seniors. It was absolutely hilarious!)

The fans rushing the floor after the big upset!

Abree, Ashtyn, Ash's friend Madison, and Gunnar

We had to get a picture with the silly Kangaroo...Aussie, Aussie, Aussie, Oy, Oy, Oy! This was a common coliseum chant when Baynes would make a tremendous play!

The big 6'8" senior from Cannes, Australia, is Aron Baynes. He is great fun to watch! Many members of his family attended the games this week and came to Pullman for their first time. (They left Australila in 100 degree weather on Tuesday..imagine how cold they've been since arriving, and will return tomorrow!) The entire group brought this lovely blow-up kangaroo with Aussie flag, two blow up blue #1 hands decorated in Austrilian flag decor and other fun things to fly high when Aron would dunk, block shots, or make an exciting play. While we were all on the floor, Aron's sister came over to Gunnar and Ashtyn and gave them each the blue hands you see Ashtyn holding up. (Gunnar let his friends play with his, so it is missing from this picture!) Then the family member introduced us to his entire family, then kept in contact with us throughout the afternoon to make sure Aron signed each of the hands once he came back out of the locker room. What neat people they were!

Aron, obviously crouching, to take a picture with Abree and Gunnar who came to his knees.

I'm sure she didn't want to pack them in her suitcase and take them back with her tomorrow! She probably has plenty of new WSU Cougar attire and souvenirs to pack. This guy was the one that kept in contact with us and made sure they got Aron's autograph and picture once he came out of the locker room. So much fun to talk to, LOVE THE ACCENT! Very friendly people! When I asked Aron's parents (who've been here for 2 weeks now) when they were going to return to Australia. His dad quickly spoke up, "Maybe not for awhile!" I'm sure hoping the Cougs might slip into a tournament slot!

Oh, Taylor...how can you not love this kid! Thank you, Taylor for making the game winning shot today at the buzzer from, say, near half court! :) And, most of all thank you for being such a great asset to the Cougar team over the past 3 years. Wow...what a ride you've taken us on!

Abree knows she is way too young to have a boyfriend and we've had the talk many times. She always says her daddy is her boyfriend, and we all think that is just fine! Well, last week watching the Cougs play on TV, she whispered in my ear, "I love Taylor Rotchestie, Mom! Don't tell Dad, but I'm going to marry him!" All said with just a big grin on her face.

And, look at this today! Here she is with the current love of her life!

I whispered the story to Taylor and he just grabbed her and told everyone to step back so I could get this picture. The smile on her face says it all!

Tanner, Taylor, Trey and Gunnar. The boys quickly jumped in after Abree had her photo op!

"Kool" Klay Thompson

This is the Cougar's magnificent freshman who shows no emotion, good or bad! He is quiet, focused, and calm. He doesn't like attention at all. Today he even tried to sneak off the floor to avoid fans, but I CAUGHT HIM! (Poor guy!) The kids were thrilled. Look, he didn't even smile for the picture. After signing an autograph for Ash, she turned to me and said, "Mom, I didn't know he had braces!" I just laughed and told her it was because we hadn't seen him smile this year. She reminded me that yes, he did smile once in an early season game when he dunked over a guy...it was huge, and he knew it was AWESOME! We look forward to watching this kid lead our team in the 3 years to come.

And, now the Cougs are on to their last seaon game...TO BEAT THE HUSKIES!

GO COUGS!

Vegas...NASCAR..."Man" trip!

2009-02-28T20:09:00.001-08:00

Leonard left Thursday for Vegas to conclude his "Rookie" fan season of NASCAR. Last year he went to his first NASCAR race in Vegas at the last minute with his best friend "Bubba" and a few other members of Washington State's finest (State Patrolmen). He had no idea what NASCAR was about or much interest in the race, I encouraged him to go to get away before the start of his busy season and before the baby arrived. It forever changed our lives, as now most Sundays between February and October, and an occassional Saturday, are spent watching "The Big Race" of the week. My children have been highly persuaded to cheer for Tony Stewart and anyone who can beat Kyle Busch. Yes, he has chosen Tony Stewart as his driver! Yes, the bad boy, the not-so-fit one, the one who doesn't shave most race days, doesn't have a beautiful trophy wife/girl friend standing with him during the National Anthem before each race...that is the number he cheers for!

He came home from Vegas last year with the ugliest Orange #20 hat that was worn faithfully all race season. (Yes, he even showed up at the hospital wearing it to take Gage home!) Then...Tony changed cars, numbers, became a partner and now we have new colors. My only hope is that Leonard returns from his trip with a much more attractive hat with #14 in red, black and white. The one he has currently created and worn the past few weeks, says "WHITE TRASH" all over it!

Now, don't you agree the hat needs to be replaced!!! Just delightful!!

(We hope he also comes home on Tuesday with many great memories and stories! There is just something about hanging out at the racetrack for 4 straight days that simply doesn't appeal to me. Glad he has friends that enjoy it like he does!)

Brad Paisley, Dierks Bentley Concert!

2009-02-27T22:25:00.001-08:00

What a great night we had last night! Ashtyn, Gunnar, Tricia and I attended the Brad Paisley and Dierks Bentley (sp?!) concert in Spokane. They played for over 3 1/2 hours! What a show it was! Between Brad Paisley's cool guitars, the video screens and their personalized productions for each and every song, guest cameos, and the great music...it was one of the best shows I've ever been to. Besides seeing they joy and excitement on my kids' faces and having Gunnar experience his first live concert, I must say the highlight for me was all of Brad' amazingly cool guitars. WOW! The kids were very tired, but as soon as one of their favorite songs would come on, they'd be up, singing, and dancing! Ashtyn took her camera, as mine was much too big to pack in and wait in line with. And, we got it ready to go only to turn it on and get the message "Replace the Battery!" Ahhh...you'll have to settle with our lovely cell phone pictures! A little frustrating for the scrapbooker in me! :) It truly was a night we'll all remember for a long time to come!

Mr. Bentley singing one of his many hits!

Gunnar, Ashtyn and Tricia waiting for Brad Paisley to start playing!

If any of you have been to this concert, or plan to go, tell me...was Allison Krause really there?! There are many opinions on this one. Let me just say, the video imaging was incredible!

A very tired Ashtyn taking in the show!

Gunnar enjoying some of Brad's great humor in his songs and production!

If you get a chance to see this show, take it! You won't be disappointed.

(Once again, I apologize for the terrible photography!)

And, now he's 7 months old...already!

2009-02-04T13:38:00.001-08:00

Where has the time gone?! Yep, Gage is already another month older! He is now officially 7 months old, sitting up and playing, eating crackers and Cheerios, wants food non-stop, giggling at his siblings and their silly antics, letting it be known when he is alone in a room, and shines a big smile at anyone who will look his way. And, now that he has pushed through his first two teeth and over his cold, once again sleeping like a champ through the night. Each day is a true joy to be with him. I thank God daily for giving me the chance to be home with him each and every day. Something, I didn't get to do with his siblings. It is so much fun!

Gage discovered his tongue over the past few days! Man, is it cool! He sticks it out all the time. Often, he can be found sticking it out and feeling it with his fingers! Quite funny!

Look two teeth! He worked very hard pushing these babies through.

Whew, we're all glad they are here!

Enough pictures, Mom! You must have gotten some good ones already?!!

It is truly basketball season around here! It is all the kids want to do...shoot hoops! Gage even got into the action a few nights ago. Dad was working with Gunnar and Abree on some skills and form, and Gage learned how to hang on the rim!

I've been tagged!

2009-01-12T08:39:00.000-08:00

I was photo tagged by my dear friend Lolli!

Here are the rules for picture tag: (It is quite fun!)

1. Choose the 4th folder where you store your pictures on your computer

2. Select the 4th picture in the folder

3. Explain the picture

4. Tag 4 people to do the same

This is a picture of Gunnar when he was 4 1/2 just being silly! He came out of his room to play some ball (in the house, of course) and thought he'd wear a tie with his Cougar hat! One thing about it, he is always being silly. Hope that never changes!

This was a great trip down memory lane! Hope these four people take advantage of the opportunity.

I'm tagging:

Michelle

Janell

Jen & Kaia

Cailyn

Gage is 6 months old today!

2009-01-03T20:13:00.001-08:00

Today our sweet Gage is 6 months old! We can hardly believe it! Where has the time gone?! He is such a joy and blessing in each of our lives. We just wish we could freeze him. Reflecting on 2008 our greatest gift was Gage and the happiness he has brought into our lives. God has truly given us a special gift. He truly knew what He was doing when He shared Gage with us and we are beyond grateful for it.

I get very sentimental on birthdays and major milestones for my children. I just love everything about each stage. Gage is the baby of our family, and I just love having a baby around. Just wishing we could keep him little forever, then I would always have someone to snuggle with and smile at everything and everyone in the world. And, he needs his mom for everything!We had a great family day to celebrate...a Cougar basketball game! He dressed for the occassion in the new jersey Great-Grandma Bell gave him for Christmas. (Doesn't he look so cute!) The game against the Huskies didn't quite turn out like we hoped, but it was still a good day. Gage was excellent, as always, during the game, being held and entertained by everyone who sits around us.(He did most of the entertaining though!) He even took in a little nap during the second half...smart boy, he knew what he was doing!

Gage has been working on sitting up, doesn't he do well!

Oh, man...how can he be 6 months old already!??!

Gunnar adores his little brother and being able to be a big brother. They share a room and I can't tell you how many times I've gone into to give Gage his binki in the middle of the night, and Gunnar has beat me to the punch. He'll be crawling back into bed and tell me softly that he "plugged him in" or he'll be at Gage's crib gently reassuring him that everything is alright.

Gunnar has quite a list of "To Do's" for his little brother as he grows up. I know they'll be great pals. He requested another baby brother the other day, and I told him if that happened he'd have to get rid of his dinosaurs and Legos, and he thought that would be just fine! Gunnar calls Gage "Buddy" and I hope it lasts forever.

Abree kisses Gage at least 50 times a day! She just can't get enough of him. Today I found her laying under his Jumperoo (floor based "Johnny Jump Up") getting pummeled by his continuous and agressive jumping, and she was just smiling away. I love to watch her with him. She wants to be right in the middle of helping me with him at all times.
Weighing in at 34 lbs, Abree has her hands full with Gage as you can see with this pictures. As I predicted, he weighs over half her body weight. (We'll have an official weight report in a couple days, but easily over 17 lbs.) Within a year, he'll probably out weigh her! I keep telling her to love on him now, because in a year he'll be chasing her and she'll be trying to get away.
Abree has been my baby for so long, she is still adjusting. If she thinks Gage is getting too much mom time, she'll push her way onto my lap or in front of me to ensure she gets her fair share as well. Can't tell you how often, I'm holding both of them! But, I LOVE IT!

And, Ash thinks Gage is the best thing in the entire world (even better than her horse)! I never have to ask her twice to pick him up, feed him, or help me out with him. She knows just what his noises mean and she takes care of it. I don't know what I'd do without her. Having her home the past couple weeks, I've gotten spoiled! When Ash gets home from school, the first thing she needs is her Gage fix and she makes sure she gets it. She is a little sad to start volleyball on Monday, knowing that she won't get to see him until after 5:30 every day.
Today as we were getting ready for the game, Gage was fussing in his crib as everyone was scrambling to get ready. Suddenly, he was silent...I just assumed, and hoped, he had fallen asleep. Went in to check on him only to find Ash rocking and singing to him. Needless to say, Gage just lights up when he sees her coming. What a lucky little guy and girl to have each other!

Happy 6 Month Birthday Sweet Boy! Thank you for blessing our lives. God is good!

MORE SNOW!

2008-12-18T10:29:00.000-08:00

Yes, it snowed all night long and is still snowing today. School was cancelled. The kids are thrilled, especially since it has warmed up to 20 degrees! Overnight we got easily over a foot of new snow to add to our previous stack. And, the big flakes are still falling! Can't remember a snow like this in years! OH, man I love it!!!! The hot chocolate is brewing.Ashtyn is blazing a trail for the littler kids to the sledding hill (in our pasture).Our neighbor Dustin ready to hit the snow. His mom dropped him off on her way to town and she couldn't get up our driveway in her 4-wheel drive. He had to walk in and meet Leonard. He came in the house and informed me he'd dropped a key to a lock on his bag in the snow on the way up. I laughed and told him we'd find it in the spring!! :)Abree is trying to follow Ash's path to the sledding hill. We could really lose her in some spots now!Ashtyn is helping Abree through a drift and into sledding territory. Notice how many boards you can see on the fence!

Here is what the back yard looks like! Isn't it beautiful??!!!!

Leonard has been out "farming" snow all morning in the tractor. I'm sure he'll be at it all day once he gets our house, the neighbors, his parents and our friends' houses done. He's really happy he bought a utility tractor with a cab and wonderful heating system this past summer! Makes the work much more pleasant!

Our family from California begins arriving today. Are they in for a shock!!! The California kids will have a great time in the NW sledding this winter!

Let it snow!!!!!

2008-12-14T12:15:00.000-08:00

We just love the snow! It snowed...and blew all day long yesterday. Some places the drifts are more than 4 feet high! The kids played and sledded for hours. Today all of our church activities were cancelled due to snow and temperatures so they are at it again today. Their adventures didn't last quite as long today with 13 degree weather with a brisk wind...hmmm, wonder what the "feels like" temperature really is. They are currently inside warming up with hot chocolate and I'm sure they'll be out soon at it again. I'm thinking a fun bonfire would be perfect!!! We'll see if we can talk dad into it.

The kids are already hoping for a delay or cancellation of school tomorrow! :)
Plans are already being made!

Some of the drifts are so deep, Abree has to have help from Ash and Gunnar to get through them. I asked them not to leave her alone today...we might lose her in a drift!

They are having to work to get to the play area today! The kids thought it would be a great idea to dig a tunnel to the swing set. Mom had to break their hearts and inform them that it probably wasn't very safe!

Notice the rescue rig and the snow plow. Both have been busy all day long!!! This is at least the 3rd trip past our house today for the rescue unit. WSU's winter graduation was yesterday...way too many people going way too fast on Highway 26!

State Champs!

2008-12-12T15:48:00.000-08:00

Last Saturday we traveled across the state to Tacoma to watch our Tigercats play for the state football championship. The kids were so excited to get there, they could hardly stand it! The boys provided for an exciting and gut-wrenching night of football. With a 2 point lead, 64-62 with just 1:10 to go, Justin intercepted the ball to regain posession and run out the clock for a victory. We were so proud of Justin and the entire team. They truly played their hearts out! This was the boys' 5th state championship in the past 7 years! It has been an incredible run!!!

Besides the big win, the night was just great fun! We were joined by our Prosser friends Lolli, Blake, Jenna, and Lauryn as they took their first look at 8-man football. A little different from the 11-man game they are use to! It is always wonderful to travel to the West side and see Uncle Norm, Aunt Barb, Kari, Nate, Cailyn and Jane as well. Everyone saw a great night of football.

Here are the proud cousins with Justin after the game (11 pm or so)!

Notice the very cool eye black they are all sporting!

And, no he doesn't normally have a mohawk...it was a team thing! Abree has been just disgusted with him for doing that to his hair. She just couldn't believe that he would do that.

A few dads even got in on the head shaving, not so attractive. When Uncle Jeff got his mohawk, Abree was really mad at him. She would walk by and elbow him, it was hilarious!

GO 'CATS!!!

Holidays are here!

2008-12-05T08:59:00.001-08:00

I know we all experience it...the rush and excitement of the holiday season! We hit the ground running this week! We started the week off with decorating our tree on Sunday night. The kids had so much fun. They were getting along, singing Christmas carols. I just loved how they "oohhh'ed and ahhhh'ed" over the ornaments and shared with each other the history they knew about each one...who gave it to them, why we got it, when they got it or made it. Wish it didn't have to end, but we ran out of ornaments and room on the tree!

Abree was very careful with her placement of ornaments. She had a favorite spot on the tree to put them as well. Monday morning after she was at school, I had to do some spreading out. I found a couple limbs with 3-4 ornaments stacked on them. :)

Gunnar made it very clear which ornaments were his and that they should all be on the front of the tree! We had to remind him regularly that we must decorate the entire tree. He just giggled with excitement all evening. He was just singing away all night. As soon as he got his sisters going on one carol and it was done, he'd jump right into another! (He was also a huge help in getting the tree up and ready to be decorated. He also helped Mom get all the decorations out of storage. Mom couldn't have done it without him.)

Ashtyn was the "spacer" constantly rearranging to make sure every part of the tree was covered and some areas not overloaded. She was such a big help. Tonight we're decorating the rest of the house, but she isn't too happy about that as she'd rather be on her way to Tacoma! (We'll address that later!)

Gage even got in on the action watching intently as his siblings ran around the room trying to make a silly green tree look pretty! He just bounced away and smiled as they sang and ran back and forth.

And, as you can see, the decorating was absolutely exhasting! He couldn't take any more!
He felt the way Mom feels each night as she stays up trying to get all the holiday tasks done, she doesn't do last minute well!

And, when it was all said and done, the girls decided their brother should take a little vacation and spend some time in the tree decoration container as they were getting ready to send it back out to storage. They thought it would be delightful if they could just pack him away for a few days! Silly girls, Mom rescued him...but I think he liked it a little!

Monday...brought Abree's dance Christmas party and watch day! She just loves that she is finally able to dance after all the years of watching big sis!

Tuesday...brought Ashtyn's Bible Study and Cougar basketball. It was a late night for all of us, but so much fun to root on the Cougs!

Wednesday...brought Gage officially being 5 months. Best part of all, he got to try cereal.

Not to sure with that first bite...

But that was all it took to convince him that cereal was alright. He literally didn't spit much out and began swalling immediately. He was opening his mouth for the next bite. Never had a little one do this. Usually the first feedings, I was wearing more than the kids ingested!

More??!!!!!!

He's really liking it. I'm sure he'll be 20 lbs very soon at this rate!

Wednesday also had us squeezing in 4-H sewing of stockings for those in need in the area and then the annual school Christmas concert. They all did a fantastic job...my kids love to sing! Abree was very easy to hear in her preschool group. Her siblings continually remind her to SING LOUD, and the darling did. Gunnar did a great job, knowing all the words to every groups' songs after sitting through all the rehearsals. Ashtyn had a really fun, upbeat solo that she nailed. Shhh...don't tell her I told you, but she was accepted into the Washington State Honor Chorus which will train and sing in February!

I just love getting the kids dressed up in the Christmas outfits. Don't they look nice! Gage was also dressed up by worn out by the time this photo was taken. He'd had enough.

Thursday...we finally got to be home for most of the day. Abree and Mom went to Colfax shopping for one of her preschool teacher's Christmas gifts. It was fun!

And, today...Friday...Abree has her last day of preschool and will start her Christmas vacation. It will be fun to have her here all day every day. Tonight we will finish decorating the house for the holidays.

Tomorrow we will rise very early, load up in the suburban and drive to Tacoma to cheer on the cousins as their team plays for the state football championship. The kids are bummed we didn't leave today...the team did!!! :P Our boys don't play until the late game tomorrow night so they've been assured that there will be plenty of time to get there, see friends and get ready to cheer loud. They've got their eye black ready to go! (Thanks, Justin!)
We have been praying that the boys will win. It would be so wonderful for Justin to win a state championship as a captain and leader of the team. And, especially wonderful, for him to win a championship with his brother on the team. GO CATS!!!!

Almost 5 months!!!

2008-11-25T17:52:00.000-08:00

I finally had professional pictures taken of Gage. Sad to say that he is almost 5 months old (next week) and I'm just getting to it. The other 3 had about 2 or 3 rounds taken by now! Sorry Gage!!! And, he did such a great job posing for the photographer. She and I were both sweating from working so hard to get him balanced, looking the right direction and smiling somewhat! Sweet big sister Abree also was a trooper on keeping his attention.

We can't quite figure out his hair color as it changes so much with the light he is in.

But, with this pictures...hmmm, it looks pretty red! :)

Here he is the little guy is studded up in his sweater vest and jeans!
Wish he'd never grow out of this outfit.

Look our 4 1/2 month old can sit all by his self. He is so amazing!
I was holding him up from behind and they just hid my arm with "tools."

I love this picture! I literally have probably 10 pictures total with all my kids as I'm the one who takes all the pictures in our family. I told the lady today this would be one of the few chances I could get one with him! :) I can hardly believe our little blessing is almost 5 months old. Truly wish I could freeze time. He is such a joy to all of us. I just love how the kids come running in the house from school and fight over who gets to hold him, kiss him, feed him. He is truly adored! Each day is incredible with his smile, smells (good and bad), jabbering, and tricks. We love you, Gage!

Tag!

2008-10-29T19:04:00.000-07:00

I was tagged by Lauryn!

Name: Ashtyn Mae

Age: 10

Nicknames: T, Beep, Ashers, Ya-Ya (Abree's name for me), Sissy

Favorite Activities: Basketball, volleyball, soccer, Cougar basketball, riding horses, roping, branding, showing steers, Kids of Faith

Favorite Foods: corn on the cob, bbq ribs, donuts, red grapes, ice cream, Kit Kats, Butterfinger, steamed clams

Least Favorite Foods: teryaki dippers, apricots

Favorite Music: Our Song (Taylor Swift), Eye of the Tiger, Go to Heaven (K. Chesney), Picture to Burn (T. Swift)

Toys: my horse, MP3 Player, cows, basketballs, Gage

Books: Series of Unfortunate Events #1..don't like reading much...shhh, don't tell my teacher!

What Makes Me Happy: brownies, friends, my horse, my family, camping

What Makes Me Sad: being away from family and friends, hearing Gage cry, selling my animals at the fair (until I get the check!), when G'ma & G'pa go to California

Tag: Christa (Brooklyn), Brandy (JP & Karly), Kirk :)

Soccer Season

2008-10-23T22:42:00.000-07:00

"G" loved playing soccer this year. He has figured out the game and became much more aggressive. It was so much fun to watch him. He wouldn't get caught up in the crowd around the ball, but would wait for the pass outside the crowd and be ready to play his position.

I was so proud of him and how hard he worked. He absolutely loved every part of it. Each night before the game he'd set all his stuff out on the floor of his room. And every morning he'd ask me which order the layers went! (We mom's appreciate being needed!)

Blue ball, out of bounds!

Calling for the ball from out-of-bounds.

He is such a team player! I truly think his favorite part of each game is high fiving the teammate who scored a goal! He and Blake got pretty good at it. At least they weren't belly bumping like last year when the other team was scoring!

And, of coure, once the game is over boys will be boys. Dad thinks real men who play real sports tackle any way! He and his buddy Jett had lots of fun during the big kids' games.

She's a cowgirl!

2008-10-23T22:21:00.000-07:00

Yesterday our little "fire cracker" went to preschool in a cute little dress with her tall brown fashion boots. She looked just adorable. When she got home, she heard dad was going some where and asked if she could go. Once he said yes, Miss Independent ran back to her room and this is what she came out in to go to town. She was quite proud of herself! Her dad ended up taking her all gussied up! (I was giggling watching them load up in the pick-up!)This little gal loves to wear her dresses and be girly, but she loves to be a farm girl, too! But, of course, everything must be pink. She had her choice of many different hats, but she picked pink. The boots had to be pink.

She knew she looked fantabulous! She had no idea where she was going. It could have been the feedlot, the shop, on the tractor...she was ready!

Such good buddies...if he's going, she wants to ride along!

Our Sweet Gage!

2008-10-23T20:16:00.000-07:00

It is so hard to believe that our sweet little Gage is already 3 1/2 months old! He's a mama's boy and doesn't like it when I get too far away. Therefore, he helps with laundry, meals and much more!

Gage has the best smile! He will just turn it on to anyone who will talk to him. Look, I have a blue eyed boy...all the other kids have brown eyes. Grandma Joleen is thrilled to get another blue eyed baby.

And, Gage likes to talk. He just jabbers away...and drools!

Mom where are you! He will just be smiling away, and as soon as I get behind the camera he becomes very concerned.

Our little blessing is growing way too quickly. He is still a little fussy, but his dad says it is because his skin is stretching so quickly with fat rolls! Can't wait for his 4 month check-up to get an official weight. He is now wearing 6-9 month clothes. Sure wish I could freeze time!

Fair time!

2008-10-04T23:26:00.000-07:00

Early September was our county fair and Ashtyn and her friend Freckles had a wonderful experience. After feeding Freckles for over a year, Ashtyn was able to show him off!

Pull!!! Freckles didn't like to walk much, it was too much effort.

I guess 1,439 lbs is quite a bit of weight to move.

Freckles and Ashtyn became great friends!

Cousin Jake was so much help to Ashtyn. Freckles looked good!

Off to make some money!

In the sale ring...it was harder to leave him than any of us ever thought! Leaving the first market animal behind at the fair is so tough!

First Days of School

2008-09-28T15:03:00.000-07:00

Ashtyn is 10 years old and already a 5th grader!! I keep telling her she can repeat a grade and stay in elementary school for a bit longer, but she rolls her eyes at me and thinks I'm crazy. This will be her last year in elementary school.

A 1st Grader!!!! Yes, Gunnar is now 7 years old and so happy to be a first grader and going to school every day! He loves reading, math, PE and, of course, recess. As you can see he has some serious long hair growing. He has always wanted "bangs," and he now has them. He just loves his long hair and kept it all summer long no matter how hot it got. He is quite proud of it, and likes to wear it like his cool high school cousins wear theirs.

Look, they are smiling and touching...ahhh, they do like each other. :) Maybe it is because it is the first day of school and they know they don't have to see each other all day every day!

Finally, Miss Abree, now 4 years old, gets to ride the bus and go to school like her big sister and big brother! Even though she had to wait two long weeks after they started, she was so excited to fill her back pack with her school supplies, wear her pretty dresses, and eat in the cafeteria. Always waking up happy, on this day she opened her eyes, looked at me and asked, "Do I go to school today?" When I replied, "yes!" She jumped up, threw her arms in the air and yelled, "YES" while pumping her arms. It was precious. And, when I pick her up every day at noon, she runs out of class with a big grin, jumps in my arms, and says, "I missed you, Mommy!" (It warms my heart to know Miss Independent does still need her mom.)

The kids!

Trying this

2008-09-17T21:47:00.000-07:00

Ok, I'm trying this blog thing and see how it works with our busy schedule. After looking at the stack of pictures I developed this past weekend and figuring out who needs what, I'm thinking a blog might be easier to keep up with our family's busy schedule. Don't expect anything too great as I try to figure all the goodies and add-ons out! :) I'm putting trust in my "blog veteran" friends to guide me through this.