Bryan and Shelly Hand

Winter Blast December 26-31 2010

2011-01-09T19:58:00.000-05:00

So while all of us were enjoying our new Christmas presents in our nice WARM homes... Ethan, Ammon, Nephi and Lamar were at winter blast for the week. When we signed them up for the scout camp who knew it would be in the 20's for almost every night. After all this is Florida last time I checked. They had a great time from what I hear. I don't know if they would say other wise. At the end of the week they did a "polar plunge" which at that point it made it out of the 50's for them.

Emma's Birthday

2010-12-12T18:48:00.001-05:00

Emma turned 5 this year December 9 2005 ... She had the idea the when she turned 5 she was going to be able to help me alot more... BY DRIVING... She had fun the whole day. School had cupcakes for her.& She ate lunch with Nora & Morgan. She had dinner with Mema& Papa. Then she was able to go to build a bear. Sunday we had cake and ice cream with the rest of the family.. Here are the pictures... I'll put video on later after I fix it...

Thanksgiving

2010-12-02T15:08:00.000-05:00

We went to Disney for Thanksgiving. It started Wednesday night after I got off work. We drove down to Orlando and stayed at the residence Inn. The first night wasn't so much fun the AC wasn't working. About 11 pm they finally moved us to 2 separate rooms for the night. We work up Thursday ready to go ho ever the hotel took more money out of my check account the the should have. This made for an interesting day since we had on $50 cash on us. But it all worked out. We ate a nice dinner at cracker barrel. however they did run out of pumpkin pie. by the time we got back to the hotel the rooms had been fixed. Friday we were able to get our money back from the hotel hold. Disney was looking like it was going to be CRAZY... We were able to do everything we wanted to do. One highlight was when we went to the hall of presidents and Emma found $40... The best part was the dessert and fireworks. I don't think i have every seen Ethan get sick of eating... Here are some pictures

New Kid Pictures

2010-10-17T20:52:00.000-04:00

Here are some of the pictures we had taken since my mom said she needed new pictures.

Epcot

2010-10-17T20:28:00.000-04:00

Riley has been reading the series of books "The Kingdom Keepers" which is based on Disney World. In the 3rd book there is a scavenger hunt that takes place in Epcot. Since there were no sports on Saturday and Austins birthday was coming up Me, Mom, Dad, Austin, Riley and Emma went. The weather was perfect. The crowd was OK unless you went to the countries then is was not so good it was Epcot's wine festival. So we did little in the countries. They sure did have some fun. Riley was able to find everything he was looking for. Unfortunately the day didn't end as well as it started. Ethan had scouts and youth activities back home and ended up needing to go to the ER and Dad started not to feel well. (Ethan is fine.) So after we ate dinner we made it home in less then 2 hours.

Emma and Grandpa and Grandma were playing Emma's favorite game the great piggy bank race. They choose to save for her college and from the looks of there game Emma better start her modeling career now she won't be going to school.....

Football Football Football

2010-10-17T20:14:00.000-04:00

There has been a whole lot of football going on in our house. Riley decided to try flag football and LOVED it. Well he at least liked it better than soccer after all. Here are some of his picture of the season. The coach told me the other day Riley comprehension of the game was great; his ability will catch up.

Ethan has been playing tackle football and his season has been great for him. He is growing as a player and has finally learned what he should be doing. Still needs to get more aggressive but doing great. He did get his first SACK which earned him a $100 and moved him to first string.

Now that the boys season's are almost ending it's time for my season to get started.....

Stone Mountain Trip #1

2010-10-17T19:38:00.000-04:00

Susie was on the East coast so we HAD to see her. Dad and I along with Emma and Austin drove to Atlanta to see Susie and Bob. It was fun to spend time with them and explore Stone Mountain. I don't remember the last time I was there. We had a lot of fun that we are taking the boys the end of October so they can see it. As you can see from the pictures I was also able to learn more about my phone. Pretty good pictures for a "phone" don't you think. I was able to edit and do a panoramic picture.

Austin and Susie are at the top.

This was to fun not to put on here. Emma LOVES to dance. Too Bad she is my daughter....

I forgot my log in

2010-10-17T19:04:00.002-04:00

Ok I have alot of updates since I forgot my log in

Shelly's Beat BBQ Boredom™ House Party

2010-08-15T19:32:00.000-04:00

We had another PARTY.... this time we grilled pizza... YES you read that right we GRILLED pizza and it was GOOD... THANKS NEAL...

Ethan's Birthday Party

2010-08-08T15:49:00.000-04:00

The best party of a summer birthday having a swimming party. The worst party of a summer birthday having it storm during you pool party. Here we are trying to wait out the storm with food, cake and ice cream. We also opened presents. The pool finally opened and stayed open for all of 15 minutes before more lightening. The storm won. BUT everybody had a good time.

Happy Birthday Ethan...

Family Vacation

2010-08-08T15:33:00.000-04:00

We just spent a week on vacation at Disney. Yes yes I hear the shock. We did lots of stuff we haven't done already. Really there is stuff we haven't done. We did 3 tours Behind the seeds at Epcot and 2 at Disney Family magic and Mickey's milestone magical tour. The family magic was a scavenger hunt around the park. Emma LOVED it. The Milestone tour was exactly what Riley wanted to do. the behind the seeds at Epcot had a little for everybody. we went to Whispering Canyon for Ethan's birthday an what a sport he is. One of the many things they did to embarrasses him was make him do the hokey pokey for the whole restaurant. Here are some of the pictures we took while we were have fun in the HOT Disney Sun......

Soccer is over and swimming has begun

2010-06-07T22:08:00.001-04:00

Soccer season has ended and we had to do ALOT of bribing to get Emma in the game. She did LOVE the tunnel after the game and wouldn't miss the chance to run through it. Emma LOVED her coach well as long as she would stand next to her on the field.

Riley finished his soccer season on the same day swim meets started... He played a game at 8:30 am then ran over to the swim meet that started at 7:00 am. What a busy day for him. His soccer coach wasn't the easiest this year. His goal was to get the kids more competitive; which meant Riley got to run laps during games since he liked to play with whom ever was sitting next to him. He was able to get Riley to break out of just playing defense.

Ethan and Riley are on their 3rd season of summer swim league. At the first meet both boys improved every time for EVERY Stroke Riley's free style got better by 6 seconds. Ethan improved his breast stroke by 3.5 seconds his back by almost 5 seconds and his free by almost 1. Both the boys also raced on relay teams and did well. There is fewer meets this year then years past so it will be interesting to see how well they will improve.

On a side note... I learned an important lesson from Ethan on Saturday also. Ethan is really growing up. He is not the fastest swimmer on the team but fast enough to be put on a relay. Several of the boys on the relay team were not happy Ethan was on the team and let him know that. I don't know if Ethan knows I that I saw this since I was on the other side of the pool; but I saw how they were giving him a hard time. It really hurt my feelings. Ethan had to tell me it didn't matter and he was OK. What a lesson to learn "let it go" I can't do that if you know me. We got the results of the swim meet and the boys making fun of Ethan did swim faster then him but by less the 8 seconds. Again Ethan reminded me It's OK. Heck I couldn't swim 50 yards in 36 seconds.

I'm very proud of my kids. Sorry no pictures this time forgot camera.

Comparing Toe Injuries

2010-05-29T15:37:00.001-04:00

For those who have been around us lately know that are feet have been suffering. On good Friday I decided to move a wall with my little toe. The wall didn't move.....

Ethan was helping me get dinner ready Sunday May 16 and if you ask him he was winning a knife fight. But I need a new crock pot now since it got broken some how.

Soleil® Spread the Sunshine House Party

2010-05-29T15:26:00.000-04:00

We had another House Party!!! Bic Soleil gave everybody Razors ear buds and sunglass cases. We had alot of fun!!!

Star Wars weekend

2010-05-29T13:12:00.001-04:00

The boys LOVE Star Wars... Disney is doing their Star Wars weekends and May 22 I took the boys down. (after swim practice and 2 soccer games) They had alot of fun and want to make it a yearly trip. Ethan decided to spend some money on his new "backpack". Now he wants a Chewbacca costume so he can put Yoda on back. The only disappointing time of the day was Riley really wanted to get 'Caption Rex's" autograph... well you had to get a ticket that they handed out starting at 8:45 and they were all out by 8:58. We didn't even head down until 12:30. Oh well...

Final Band Concert of the School Year

2010-05-13T08:00:00.001-04:00

Ethan's final concert of the year was GREAT. The band director Mr Rankin had a non transitional concert which means they didn't stop to change band. He did the performance in the gym so while one band was playing on one end the other end was setting up. Ethan was able to play his favorite song Pirates of the Caribbean. At the end Mr Rankin had the entire band beginning to advance play together. That is the panoramic picture. Ethan said you can't see all the people because there are people in the way. Oh well I did the best I could.

Disney with the WHOLE Family

2010-05-13T07:46:00.000-04:00

Saturday we went to Disney with the whole family. It was fun to tell the worker that there was 20 in my group. It ended up being a really good day. The weather was in the low 90's and the lines were in the low 30 minutes. It has been almost 4 years since we have all went together. Here are some of the few pictures we took. We were have to much fun to take pictures. Oh we got Riley and Ethan to ride Space Mountain, YEAH!!!!!!

Update on Emma and Soccer

2010-05-01T20:28:00.000-04:00

To look at these pictures you wouldn't think Emma was playing. She is improving with every game. She still needs a LOT of coaching to get out and stay out. She gets tired easily like watching the ball. She will chase the ball but not sure if she wants to kick the ball yet. She does love playing the sweeper as you can see in the photos. How many goalies can bend over that far or sit while the rest of the team plays. It sure if fun to watch.

Blue and Gold

2010-05-01T20:22:00.000-04:00

Tonight was the Blue and Gold at Church for Riley's cub scouts. Probably the last one Riley will do since he will turn 11 before the next one. He had a lot of fun even sang a solo. They treated them like REAL Celebrities.

Soccer opening

2010-04-17T13:05:00.000-04:00

Soccer games started today. Emma isn't ready yet; but will get there soon. Riley is loving play defense. The down side to the soccer games... They BOTH play at the SAME TIME!!!

100 Calorie house Party

2010-04-13T10:11:00.005-04:00

We had a great 100 calorie house party. I have to say party pack was great. The little cups were a hit and the perfect size to hold the Nabisco 100 calorie fudge petites fudge shortcakes and the mint fudge chocolate shortcakes. I prefer the mint ones myself. Here are some pictures of everybody enjoying the treats...

Easter

2010-04-13T09:56:00.003-04:00

Easter has come and gone. The girls are the only ones who dressed up in new Easter outfits. We hunted for eggs and ate lots of food. Here are some of the few pictures we took. Hope everybody had a GREAT holiday....

Flag Football

2010-03-28T09:31:00.002-04:00

For those who know me I have played flag football now for 3 seasons. I like to say I play on the old ladies league (nobody else on the team likes that) ; You have to be over 25 to play. We have gone from the first season losing every game (i do mean EVERY game 8-0), To being the number 1 team this season.

WE WON THE Championship!!!

She Did it AGAIN!!!!

2010-03-11T11:14:00.004-05:00

All I have to say is REALLY AGAIN??? At what age do they stop cutting their hair!!!!!

Happy 10th Birthday Riley

2010-02-11T19:50:00.003-05:00

Today Riley turned 1o. Oh my double digits now...It's all down hill from here... We went to Chick-fil-a for dinner and Riley wanted to sit by himself. I wonder if this is what things may come. Wish me luck with my food bill now.....

HAPPY BIRTHDAY RILEY

Riley's 10th Birthday Party

2010-02-09T12:38:00.006-05:00

We rented a blow up dragon that ended up being 70 ft long... So it was a front yard and some of

the neighbor's yard event. Riley passed out at least 30 invites so if you meat him you got an

invite. There was including family 38 people at this massive event. Riley is really into Lego's

this year so the invite had a picture of a Lego man caring candles. Then Devon made a

wonderful Lego block cake with not much help from me and Bryan. I made the cakes and Bryan

transported them to Devon then Devon did her magic to make them look Lego blocks. He had

alot of fun and so did the hundreds of other people there.....
.

Ethan and Basketball

2010-02-09T12:16:00.002-05:00

Basketball Season has started and the church decided it would be a better experience for the Deacon's to play only other deacons... Except all the other deacons are a whole foot shorter than Ethan and 2 others. It's definitely not a fair jump shot...... Ethan's playing skills are getting better that Lamar who coaches both basketball team has asked Ethan to be a sub for the Priest and Teacher team.

Quick catch up

2010-02-09T11:57:00.004-05:00

It's been how long since Christmas?? How did January get away from me? OK well I know how football started for me and then Ethan is doing basketball and Riley's doing Odyssey of the Mind... Well here are some pictures to get you up to date...

Tuba Christmas

2009-12-13T16:45:00.004-05:00

They have been doing the Tuba Christmas since 1974. Ethan was able to to the Tuba Christmas this year. It has been held down at the Jacksonville Landing for the last 15 years or so. It was fun to watch and Ethan really enjoyed doing it.

Emma's 4 Birthday Party's

2009-12-13T16:10:00.006-05:00

Emma had 4 birthday parties this year. She turned 4 on December 9th. We started the parties with a trip for just the two girls to Disney world. This year Disney let pass holders get the amount of a ticket to spend in the park. Emma wanted a dress but ended up with 5 things.... Tinker bell tinnies, Minnie mouse light up thing, Tinker bell coloring book, Sleeping Beauty Jewelry box, and a mix and match Princess book. Not a bad trip. We were able to eat Breakfast with the princesses in Cinderella's Castle also.

For her Second Party we went to Ollie koala’s with Dylan, Nora, and Morgan. They all got pizza and left with some toy from the prize store.

Emma’s Third party was at her school. Sorry we have no pictures. They sang Happy Birthday to her and had Cake.

Emma’s fourth party was here at the house with the family. We opened presents and had Cake and Ice Cream. While we were cutting the cake the top fell off. Oh well it still tasted good….

HAPPY BIRTHDAY EMMA !!!!!!!!

Ethan did it!!!

2009-11-26T11:08:00.002-05:00

I know everybody has been waiting for this day for almost 3 years. November 24 2009. I have always said its just hair but it was sad to see it go..... He was able to donate his hair and that is something he was working toward. Ethan sometimes feels like his hair is just pulled back in a pony tail. Now the challenge comes with learning how to take care of short hair.

Emma

2009-11-10T08:33:00.005-05:00

Emma has been finding was to entertain herself at the soccer and football games. Yes she is in Ethan's Stinky gear bag.(we make him keep it in the garage). She loves to take picture so you can see me at the games also....

Football

2009-11-10T08:29:00.004-05:00

Ethan has finished another year of football... I think he finally got the game... The last two games he actually started tackling and now he can't wait to play again.... As of right now there will not be a league for him to play in Being 13 5'11" 160 lbs isn't all that fun when your too BIG...

Soccer

2009-11-10T08:22:00.004-05:00

Riley has finished another Season of soccer... I think his team won every game...YEAH!!! Riley has grown as a soccer player and now will play all the positions not just defense

PUMPKIN CARVING????

2009-10-27T19:40:00.003-04:00

We got our pumpkin today. Now it was time to carve. What .... when did carving a pumpkin need a drill???

div>

Trying to get into shape

2009-10-05T06:53:00.003-04:00

I have been getting up at 5:00 am ( I know crazy) and working out with the Wii fit. Emma came to me on Tuesday and said I want to do exercise on the Wii. She wanted to do Yoga. Here she is doing the Sun Salutation....

Deadwood Saloon

2009-09-01T20:01:00.009-04:00

Dad turned 60 ........

We had a murder mystery party Western Saloon style It was fun to have everybody there...

Bryan's 40th BIRTHDAY

2009-08-30T20:25:00.006-04:00

BRYAN TURNED the B-I-G 40 Aug 21. and not to change how we celebrate (Aaron) we went to DISNEY....

Shelly and Ethan's Birthdays

2009-08-02T21:03:00.008-04:00

For are Birthday's this year we get to go to Disney and spend Disney money....YEAH!!!! We

spent 4 days down there for mine and Ethan's Birthdays. We had a lot of fun. Not enough time to

just sit back and relax but a lot of FUN.. We stayed at the Camp Wilderness Cabins and there

was enough stuff to do there you wouldn't need to leave. We did a carriage ride one night and

saw lots of deer on it. We ate at lots of nice places and really tried make the most of each

situation. We ate with Cinderella and her step sister, step mother and Prince Charming. The

sisters found out Ethan was turning 13 and wanted to marry him that was fun for us and Ethan

was a good sport about it. We also ate with Minne, Goofy and Donald for Breakfast. We rode lots

of rides and i video us going down the BIG drop of Splash Mountain. That was fun... ALL the

BOYS got haircuts at eh main street barber. It truly was FUN. We even got to eat at a special

place at the Columbia House over by the Hunted Mansion just because it was my Birthday. We

will be back for Bryan's 40th Birthday in a couple of Weeks....

Swim season is over and the Boys are HAPPY

2009-07-19T20:00:00.005-04:00

This weekend was very busy for the boys. They had their championship swim meet on

Saturday. I didn't think they would make it getting up at 5:00am to drive over an hour to the

meet. But they did and did GREAT. Ethan placed 9th in breast and 11th in back strokes and

23rd in free style. Riley's big accomplishment was knocking 28 seconds off his breast stroke and

not getting DQ. YEAH!! His results were 30th in Back 23rd in breast and 46th in free. Today

was their award banquet and Riley got most improved swimmer in his age for the 28 seconds he

shaved off his breast stroke. Ethan got most improved for getting a better time EVERY time he

got in the water. Everybody has watched Ethan grow a a swimmer. All I have to say is watch out

Micheal Phelps.

4th of July

2009-07-05T14:45:00.004-04:00

This year on July 3rd we had our Food Family and Fireworks out at the farm. We had a great time. Ethan had the camera at scout camp so you will just have to take our word for it. Then July 4th was packed full of things. Bryan and Riley got up and went fishing. We went swimming up at the pool with the family minus the Steinhours and Lisa. Again Ethan had camera. Ethan got home around 2:30. That night we went down to the fort in St Augustine and watch the fireworks with The Haynes Family. We do have those pictures.

Ethan's Scout Camp

2009-07-05T14:28:00.004-04:00

Ethan Spent a week June 28-July4 2009 at Camp Rainy Mountain work on his scouting badges. Here's what he did....

Disney with Erin & Devon

2009-06-26T08:53:00.008-04:00

Me and Emma spent a couple days down at Disney with Erin. Devon came alittle later. We had LOTS of fun. Here are our pictures in no order just our whole day at Disney. Ethan and Riley better watch out Emma loves the COASTER.....

Disney for Amy's Birthday

2009-06-14T21:30:00.005-04:00

Disney Lets you go for free to any park on your Birthday. Since we have annual passes we

decided to go with Amy on her Birthday. It wasn't all that bad. The lines were short but it was

HOT...

Here we are waiting in line

Riley and Emma Goofing off

Riley LOVING the carousel

Emma waving at some one she didn't care she likes to wave.

Happy Birthday Amy

Swim Meet Season Again

2009-06-14T20:52:00.005-04:00

The boys had their 1st swim meet this season. The best thing they can say was their Dad made the granola they like. It was hard for Riley this time around he went from swimming 25 to 50 in less than 2 weeks. He swam in the freestyle and Back stoke. His times were 1:17.40 for back stoke and he gt DQ for freestyle. Riley sides that's not for dairy queen either.

Ethan did 2 relays the Breast stroke and freestyle. His times were 1:05.47 for Breast which improved 16 second. He was DQ for freestyle also. He has learned to do a flip turn now. Both the relays they came in 2nd out of 2 teams.

I let the boys be in charge of the camera and here are the pictures. They were more interested in getting video.

Just Because I Liked What this was Saying

2009-06-07T15:02:00.003-04:00

Written by Regina Brett, 90 years old, of The Plain Dealer, Cleveland,
Ohio

"To celebrate growing older, I once wrote the 45 lessons life taught me.
It is the most-requested column I've ever written.

My odometer rolled over to 90 in August, so here is the column once more:

1. Life isn't fair, but it's still good.

2. When in doubt, just take the next small step.

3. Life is too short to waste time hating anyone.

4. Your job won't take care of you when you are sick. Your friends and

parents will. Stay in touch.

5. Pay off your credit cards every month.

6. You don't have to win every argument. Agree to disagree.

7. Cry with someone. It's more healing than crying alone.

8. It's OK to get angry with God. He can take it.

9. Save for retirement starting with your first paycheck.

10. When it comes to chocolate, resistance is futile.

11. Make peace with your past so it won't screw up the present.

12. It's OK to let your children see you cry.

13. Don't compare your life to others. You have no idea what their journey is all about.

14. If a relationship has to be a secret, you shouldn't be in it.

15. Everything can change in the blink of an eye. But don't worry; God never blinks.

16. Take a deep breath. It calms the mind.

17. Get rid of anything that isn't useful, beautiful or joyful.

18. Whatever doesn't kill you really does make you stronger.

19. It's never too late to have a happy childhood. But the second one is up to you and no one else.

20. When it comes to going after what you love in life, don't take no for an answer.

21. Burn the candles, use the nice sheets, and wear the fancy lingerie. Don't save it for a special

occasion. Today is special.

22. Over prepare, and then go with the flow.

23. be eccentric now... Don't wait for old age to wear purple.

24. the most important sex organ is the brain.

25. No one is in charge of your happiness but you.

26. Frame every so-called disaster with these words 'In five years, will this matter?'

27. Always choose life.

28. Forgive everyone everything.

29. What other people think of you is none of your business.

30. Time heals almost everything. Give time time.

31. However good or bad a situation is, it will change.

32. Don't take yourself so seriously. No one else does.

33. Believe in miracles.

34. God loves you because of who God is, not because of anything you did or didn't do.

35. Don't audit life. Show up and make the most of it now.

36. Growing old beats the alternative -- dying young.

37. Your children get only one childhood.

38. All that truly matters in the end is that you loved.

39. Get outside every day. Miracles are waiting everywhere.

40. If we all threw our problems in a pile and saw everyone else’s, we’d grab ours back.

41. Envy is a waste of time. You already have all you need.

42. The best is yet to come.

43. No matter how you feel, get up, dress up and show up.

44. Yield.

45. Life isn't tied with a bow, but it's still a gift."

Swim Lessons

2009-05-31T19:26:00.003-04:00

Living in Florida we decided Emma should learn to swim. So Eli, Dylan and Emma are taking swimming lessons. This was the last class of the first set of classes. They are starting up again in a couple of days. Emma's goal is to go down the slide at the pool. She is my real thrill seeker...

Last concert of the year

2009-05-31T19:04:00.002-04:00

Ethan had his last Band Concert as a beginner band. He is looking forward to continuing his tuba playing. If we could only get him to practice at home....

Here's Riley and Emma goofing off at the concert

Just Hanging out at the pool

2009-05-31T18:55:00.004-04:00

Saturday we had everything done we wanted to do so we went to the pool....

Riley did survive the trip down the slide...

Memorial Day

2009-05-27T08:40:00.004-04:00

This year for Memorial Day we went to Epcot

I got the kids to ride Test Track and they were a little worried at first but LOVED IT in the end...

When we were walking in France Belle Walked up to Emma and took her to her picture taking spot... Belle maybe her favorite now....

Bryan had to ride around in a hoover Round but I don't think he was complaining except when we couldn't keep up with him...

It was the flower festival while we were they and Emma had to have her picture taken

They also got to make a video game here' the link

http://www.thinkingofyoupostcards.com/runtime/play?guestcode+KQCQKFPLPMRRXQ

Update

2009-05-01T10:40:00.002-04:00

Just a quick up date. After 3 days in the hospital I'm home and trying to recover quickly... I had a hysterectomy April 24th. Bryan is having his ACL done on Thursday May 7th. So we are just a ball of health here. The boys have started swim team again and Riley is soccer season is still going so... We are here will add pictures later.....

Animal Kingdom

2009-04-11T18:31:00.000-04:00

Make a Smilebox postcard

Getting ready for Blue & Gold

2009-04-03T21:14:00.002-04:00

I made the invite for the cub scout...

Make a Smilebox photobook

Family Picture Day

2009-03-15T20:51:00.006-04:00

The whole family took pictures here you go.....

Emma at the Zoo

2009-03-11T19:40:00.003-04:00

Bryan and Emma decided to go to the zoo on Tuesday...

Surprise trip to Disney

2009-03-11T19:33:00.003-04:00

Saturday I decided to take the kids to Disney... SO after Ethan's Basketball game we headed down. They were so busy watching a movie and eating lunch they didn't ask where we were going until after Daytona. We did enjoy the time while we were there. Emma loves to watch the parade and wave to the princess. The boys just want to ride rides. The BEST thing of ALL Emma rode the roller coaster!!! Yeah!!!! Now if we can get the boys too...

Emma is funny

2009-02-17T21:05:00.003-05:00

Emma was dancing the other day to Oingo Boingo while Ethan was taking care of his foot. It was so cute I had to share.....

Riley's Birthday

2009-02-17T20:44:00.004-05:00

For Riley's Birthday I took him to Disney for the day February 11th. He was definitely on a mission. We rode very specific rides ate exactly were he wanted. And since Disney gave him $63 he bought what he wanted. Nothing more Nothing less.

On Sunday the 15th everybody came over for cake and ice cream......

Riley's Birthday Party

2009-02-07T13:48:00.000-05:00

Make a Smilebox invite

Stitch

2009-01-25T20:22:00.003-05:00

I have been talking about putting this on the blog for a while now. As you all know we have a giant dog. This really came to our attention when the vet said it was time to take him off large breed puppy food and he needed to be on the giant breed adult food. What a difference in the size. Here it is....

large breedgiant breed

Stitch

Makes you think twice about a dog this big, huh?

Pine Wood Derby

2009-01-08T06:31:00.005-05:00

Riley Had another Pine Wood Derby. I don't know who has more fun the kids or Bryan.

And just in case you wanted to see what a pine wood derby car went threw...

Santa Gift

2009-01-02T19:54:00.005-05:00

This year Santa gave us an annual pass to Disney World. We quickly put it to use. Monday the 29th -Wednesday the 31 we spent down at Disney and MGM. It was nice to go and see what Christmas was like at Disney. It was also nice to know we could go back anytime we wanted and not feel rushed to get everything in...

Christmas Parties

2008-12-26T11:47:00.001-05:00

Make a Smilebox slideshow

Riley's Christmas Program

2008-12-15T20:24:00.005-05:00

Tonight was the 3rd grade Christmas around the world program.

Here's Riley's part...

Emma's Birthday Party

2008-12-13T23:35:00.008-05:00

This Morning we had Emma's Party. Since I have been in the mood to be crafty we made a craft at the party. All the kids under 9 and Lisa made visors. Then we made either princess license or book markers for the boys. Emma opened a ton of presents. She loved everyone especially her boots. Then we ate the cake Devon made that looks like a crown. (thanks Robyn for the idea.)

HAPPY BIRTHDAY

Santa sent a message

2008-12-11T08:21:00.002-05:00

http://family.go.com/santas-list/video/30120-hands465/

http://family.go.com/santas-list/video/30128-hands465/

Happy Birthday Emma

2008-12-09T20:34:00.003-05:00

Today Emma turned THREE!!! Tonight we went to dinner as a family and came home and had cupcakes. Emma was just happy to wear her Birthday sash and crown with her wand. We will have her party on Saturday.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY EMMA

Emma's Party Invite

2008-11-30T20:37:00.001-05:00

Make a Smilebox greeting

FIRST haircut???

2008-11-27T10:22:00.005-05:00

Yesterday the kids went to have their pictures taken with Santa. Mom and Erin decided Emma's bangs were too long....

Emma decided today they needed

more trimming......................

Football Party

2008-11-23T19:47:00.005-05:00

Ethan had his final game of the season. They did have a perfect record for the inaugural season. Too bad it was 0 & 11. Ethan really enjoyed playing football and looks forward to playing next year. Hopefully Grandma will let him after here about all the injuries to other team members. Here's to next year........

Halloween

2008-11-02T11:52:00.002-05:00

If you know Bryan you know Halloween is his favorite day of the year. It's also fast becoming one of Ethan's. He loves to scare as many people as possible. Here's some pictures of our yard and Ethan tied to the stake.

Ethan's First Band Concert

2008-10-30T21:02:00.007-04:00

Thursday October 30th was Ethan's first band concert. We got to listen to Hot Cross Buns and Mary had a Little Lamb in every instrument. Ethan is 1 of 4 tuba players. Too bad we sat on the left side when Ethan was on the right.

The Cast is OFF

2008-10-30T20:20:00.003-04:00

Today was the day off came the cast. YEAH!!!!

Pumpkin Patch

2008-10-30T08:00:00.003-04:00

Every year we go to the pumpkin patch to take pictures. Here are some pictures of all the FUN we have. This year Bryan took Stitch and people were taking more pictures of him then their own kids....

My Streak is broken

2008-10-30T07:47:00.003-04:00

Sunday night after spending 2 1/2 hours at a cub scout meeting at church I decided to have a "parking issue". Coming home from mom's house I was drive down 13. When while talking to Bryan he heard me say "Oh Crap" then the phone cut off. I apparently hit the lip of the road where they are doing construction and over corrected. We fished tailed for awhile before landing in the ditch across the road. THANK GOODNESS there were no cars driving North on 13 and they just dug the ditch. The police officer said since there was no damage to my car or any property there was no wreck. I just had a problem parking my car. I have on star and they were great help. So wanted to stay on the line with me until somebody got there. I had to tell that Riley and Emma couldn't hear their movie so since nobody was hurt I needed to make them happy while we waited. Here are some picture. They are very dark but the hood of my car is buried in the ditch and we actually straddled the ditch so it was a jump to get out.

The last time I had caused a wreck was in high school 15 years ago.....

My FIRST Ward Event

2008-10-19T20:24:00.005-04:00

Last night was my first ward event. It was not fun getting to the Halloween Carnival but we made it. I had alot of help from many people but Erin did alot. The great thing about the social was we ran out of tables. What a great thing to happen. The count was about 165- 170 people. We have a chili dinner and then a carnival for the kids. After the carnival we had about 16 rooms around the church decorated for the kids to trick or treat. Bryan and Ethan both had there own rooms. Ethan is trying to really enjoy Halloween and wants to out do his father. Here are some pictures Sorry no pictures of the rooms....

I Got TAGGED!!!

2008-10-16T13:59:00.006-04:00

5 things I was doing 10 years ago

1. Working at Humana

2. Spending time with Ethan

3. Trying to sell our condo

4. Living at the beach

5. Looking for a house closer to my Family

5 things on my to do list today

1. Pass out Fundraiser letters

2. Pick up toys for Halloween party

3. Pick up table cloths

4. SLEEP

5. Watch Devon's kids

5 Snacks I Love

1. Ice cream

2. Hot fudge brownies

3. Reese's peanut butter cups

4. Blizzard

5. Chips and Salsa

5 Things I would do if I were a millionaire

1. Be out of debt

2. Travel more

3. Give my kids everything

4. Quit working

5. SHOP

5 Places I've lived

1. Florida

2. FL

3. Florida

4. Ditto

5. did I mention Florida

5 jobs Ive had

1. Winn Dixie cashier

2. Humana switchboard operator

3. Student

4. Mom

5. Dental Hygienist

I TAG

1. Susie

2. Robin

3. Devon

4. Erin

5. Tami

Follow the Prophet

2008-10-05T15:02:00.006-04:00

I really enjoyed the Prophet's talk about Change. Anybody who knows me knows I enjoy doing things with my kids and that I'm a planner. Time goes by so fast I want to spend time with them while they want to spend time with me. SO this weekend my goal was to get the house clean and move the piano out. That didn't happen! Of course I wasn't happy about it and I wasn't in a great mood. But who wouldn't enjoy watching your kids slide down the stairs together. I do LOVE to hear my kids LAUGH!!!

Football game again

2008-10-05T14:23:00.005-04:00

Ethan loves being apart of the football team. One day he'll love playing.

(I need to teach Erin how to keep things in focus) Ethan's Number 38.

Ones thing for sure we enjoy going to cheer him on. AND watching the team play.

Riley's Cast

2008-10-02T19:07:00.004-04:00

The first day back to school with his black and orange cast and it's covered with names. Riley is a good sport becasue I asked the doctor to cover his thumb. I just hope he doesn't knock his teeth out.

No time for anything

2008-09-28T18:06:00.003-04:00

Riley sent me a voicemail telling me I needed to update my blog this weekend. I finally had a moment to update some things. I'm not sure when I will be able to just sit again for a while. This month Me and Bryan were called to activity chairman(translation Shelly was called). While they were setting us apart they asked me to be the wolf den leader. I have also been subing in the primary. So between all the boys activities and now church activities I have to find a place for my activity. ITS FOOTBALL TIME for me. I can't wait.

ANOTHER BROKEN BONE

2008-09-28T18:00:00.004-04:00

Here we go again another broken bone. This time its Riley and his left arm. What a bad mother I am. Friday at Ethan's football practice he fell and I told him he was OK. Saturday he tried to play his first soccer game and just couldn't do it. So off to the Er we went. Both bone in his arm are broken. I will call the Orthopedic doctor tomorrow to schedule an appointment to get his real cast. Pictures will come.

Ethan and more Football

2008-09-28T17:51:00.003-04:00

Ethan had a football game in Palm Coast this week. After driving an hour to get to his game they wanted us to pay to get in. That didn't go over well. Here's some pictures of the game and the ride home.

Emma's First day at Cambridge

2008-09-03T19:38:00.002-04:00

We have always thought a preschool/daycare was good for kids to learn how to socialize with other kids. This time I'm hoping it will help Emma learn to talk and use the potty ALL THE TIME. Today was Emma's first day a school. She will be going Wednesdays and Fridays. She finger painted today and had NO accidents. YEAH!!! It was alittle disappointing not to have her cry after me. We got there and it was "Bye Mommy see ya" like she had been going there forever. It was nice to go to a school where they remember that Riley went there.

Ethan's First Football GAME

2008-08-31T21:16:00.007-04:00

Ethan's First football game has come and gone...YEAH!!! There were some tense moments when

our team found out there were "girls" on the other team.. Oh no!!! The other problem was our

team we smaller. BUT the fought a good fight and held the Raiders to 10 - 0. For all those whom

ever watch one of my football games it was the same. We played great football but never won.

That's OK the is always next week.

FOOTBALL Here Comes ETHAN

2008-08-18T20:15:00.005-04:00

Ethan has decided to try football. He is having a hard time right now with it since it is still very new to him. He doesn't like the fact people can pick him up and put him on the ground or the fact that his mom has played flag football and makes him keep going even after getting an elbow to the neck. He will get it I have all the confidence he can do it.

GO ETHAN!!

ETHAN turns 12

2008-07-28T21:35:00.004-04:00

July is a busy month for birthdays but we were able to get away just me and the boys with Lisa and Austin to Sea World. They really enjoyed watching the show. ALL they wanted to do was seat in the splash zone. He are some pictures Ethan took from the front row...

On Sunday we had everybody over for cake and ice cream to celebrate the big day...

Swimming Awards

2008-07-28T21:28:00.002-04:00

Swim team is finally over and the boys really enjoyed almost all of it. They missed the Championship because we went to sea world for Ethan's Birthday. Here they are getting "I swam on a team" trophy.

GOOD JOB BOYS... CAN'T WAIT UNTIL NEXT YEAR!!!!!

Alaska

2008-07-28T21:05:00.003-04:00

From Ethan: On July 14, 2008 I went to Alaska with my dad, and grandpa Hand. We had to drive to Orlando to catch our plane. We flew on Alaskan Airlines. The plane stopped in Seattle Washington, then continued on to Anchorage, Alaska. After we got out luggage from the plain we drove about 4 hours to our campground on the Klutena River. The weather in Alaska was in the mid sixties during the day and down to the 40s at night. It was windy and did rain some but it was not too bad. My grandpa taught me how to tie a fishing knot so that I could change my hooks and lures by myself. We did not catch any red salmon on the Klutena River so we went to Valdies. When we got there we found a place were the Pink salmon were so thick in the water you could almost walk down and pick out the fish you wanted. We used lures call pixies. The fish did not really bite the lures we had to snag the fish with the hooks. The fish weighed between 3 and 5 pounds. They were a lot of fun to catch. Grandpa and me had a fishing contest to see who could catch the biggest fish. I won the first time. Grandpa says he won the second time but I think I really did. We ended up going to Valdies 4 times one of the times I caught a Pink Salmon that I entered in a fishing derby for kids and got a t-shirt as a prize. We got to see a lot of really big mountains, some glaciers and even a couple of dome volcanoes. I had a lot of fun and think I would like to live there some day.

DISNEY

2008-07-23T10:28:00.012-04:00

While Bryan & Ethan were in Alaska I decided to take Mom, Riley & Emma to Disney for a couple of days. Sunday we went to MGM and Epcot. We had lunch with some Playhouse Disney characters. Riley was able to see the Indiana Jones show and ride the Star Wars ride.

At Epcot Riley and Grandma saved the earth while me and Emma ate nuts. The also got to talk to Crush and see some sea creatures...

Monday we spent the whole day at DISNEY. And what trip would be complete without some princess pictures, a meltdown and a nap...

We also ate dinner with Cinderella. It was the nicest place you could eat that had mice helping them and a fairy godmother to help your wishes come true......

And just to PROVE RILEY REALLY DID IT......

HE RODE SPLASH MOUNTAIN NOT ONCE BUT TWICE.

On Tuesday Devon and Erin came down and we spent some time at downtown Disney and eat lunch at the Rainforest Cafe.... they sang to the FOUR birthday people there.

It was too much for Emma

Devon's 30th Birthday Party

2008-07-23T10:06:00.006-04:00

Devon turned 30 and decided she wanted to PARTY. The theme a

PIRATE MURDER MYSTERY.............

We had alot of fun if you every decide to throw a party the murder mystery is worth it. We had a time finding costumes as you can see. Here's a little secret NEAL made his costumes. He's a pretty good seamstress huh???

Here's a side note... Mom bought Nora a Belle barbie doll and with in five minutes had her completely undone. Erin will not let Nora play with it any more... However she plays with it and makes it talk to me.... Here's the barbie all dressed for the pirate party

Ethan's Big Decision

2008-07-08T21:12:00.005-04:00

Ethan has had a very busy summer between camps and getting ready to go to Alaska. This week he is doing BAND camp. Ethan was able to try all the different instruments that make up a band. What does he choose..........................................

THE TUBA!!!!

JULY 4TH

2008-07-05T20:11:00.006-04:00

The day was packed with FUN!! We started swimming around noon. Then went to the Farm around six. Went to bed around midnight.

3rd Swim meet

2008-06-22T16:56:00.003-04:00

Sorry no pictures or video for the swim meet I had to work. I was timing and had a hard time trying to cherry the boys on while the kid in my lane. Here are the results...

Saturday June 21, 2008
Smiley Face
Boys 7-8 25 yard backstroke
Riley placed 10th out of 12 time 42.84
Boys 11-12 50 yard backstroke
Ethan placed 7th out of 9 time 1:19.97
Boys 8 & under 25 yard breaststroke
Riley placed 12th out of 15 time 1:08.12
Boys 11-12 50 yard breaststroke
Ethan placed 7th out of 10 time 1:38.84
Boys 7-8 25 yard freestyle
Riley placed 14th out of 15 time 47.28
Boys 11-12 50 yard freestyle
Ethan placed 7thout of 9 time 56.66
Boys 7-8 100 yard freestyle relay
Riley’s team was 4th out of 4 time 2:39.01

Smiley Face

The Hand Sisters Come to Town

2008-06-20T21:54:00.007-04:00

All of Bryan's sisters came to town for vacation. It was fun to visit with everybody and get to know each other again. This was also the week Billie turned 60. Gordon and Billie want pictures of their kids so here they are in all their glory......
Smiley Face

Taking all these pictures was fun and it gave everybody a chance to realize

I was in control
Smiley Face

2nd Swim meet

2008-06-14T18:38:00.009-04:00

Here are some pictures from today's swim meet. I'm very proud of the boys. Riley had two NEW events the butterfly and the breaststroke. He will get better with the practice but he didn't give up!!!! Yeah Riley!!! Ethan had two new events this time also the Breaststroke and the medley rely
Boy’s 11-12 200 yard medley relay
Ethan’s team 4th out of 4 time 3:48.59

Boys’ 8 & under 25 yard butterfly
Riley placed 7th out of 8 time 51.28
Boys 8 & under 25 yard breaststroke
Riley placed 15th out of 16 time 59.31

Boys 11-12 50 yard breaststroke
Ethan placed 10th out of 15 time 1:21.81
Boy’s 7-8 25 yard free style
Riley placed 16th out of 19 time 41.09
Boy’s 11-12 50 yard free style
Ethan placed 8th out of 12 time 57.53
11-12 200 yard freestyle relay
Ethan’s team 3rd out of 5 time 3:12.01

WAY TO GO BOYS KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK!!!!!

FIRST Swim Meet Ever

2008-06-07T16:40:00.011-04:00

Today was the First Swim Meet for the Boys. I'm very proud of them for sticking with this because it isn't easy. (it's going to get worst since practice will be 7 am when school gets out)..

RILEY'S RESULTS

He was in four events

100 yard Medley Relay Riley’s team placed 5th out of 5 time 2:30.38

25 yard back Riley placed 22 out of 36 time 36.73

25 free Riley placed 32 out of 36 time 37.49

100 free relay Riley’s time place 4th out of 4 time 2:15.34

ETHAN'S RESULTS

He was in three events

50 yard Back Ethan placed 8th 10 time 1:05.66

(10 whole seconds off previous time)

50 free Ethan placed 11 out of 12 time 55.56

200 free relay Ethan’s team placed 3rd out of 3 time 3:10.32

GO BOYS YOU CAN DO IT!!!!!!

Here's the link to the HAMMERHEADS website

http://hlh.swim-team.us/team/default.asp

Universal Studios

2008-06-05T20:06:00.013-04:00

Today was the 5th grade trip to Universal Studios. Oh what FUN!!! We did almost everything you can do in the short time we were there (10:00 - 4:00) possible. Here we are at the start of the Day

Ethan and his friend George

Ethan just goofing off

Ethan really enjoyed himself. He also LOVED the fact he was picked out of the crowd to have a part in a "movie"

Here we are at the end of day.

Memorial Day

2008-05-26T16:32:00.012-04:00

For all those who couldn't be here Ethan went down the slide for everybody.

Here's everybody else having a GREAT time. The water is still a little cold and it's not 100 but it is still Memorial Day!!!