Sonshine

visionaries

2012-02-19T20:34:00.000-06:00

Trevor is 18 months today--he attended Nursery for the whole time and was really happy--so were his momma and dadda

P I double-Z A

2012-02-18T20:47:00.013-06:00

It was FREE PIE day at Papa John's--buy one, get one free. We decided to try two new ones, Chicken Cordon Bleu and Double Bacon 6 Cheese. As we were passing one to Bryce he said, "I don't want the Chicken Corndog Blue kind."

proud moment:)

2012-02-17T16:12:00.001-06:00

Bryce earned the Principal Proud Award for always being so kind and generous to everyone!

for Rebecca

2012-02-17T15:24:00.000-06:00

Be mine

2012-02-14T21:37:00.000-06:00

Be mine Valentine

mouse-r-cise

2012-02-14T14:37:00.000-06:00

Spencer and Trevor love to put on our Mickey Club House CD and dance. Lately Spencer will get out my step and go to town on the Mouse-r-cise song. Today Trevor did it all by himself. So funny.

Everybody Mouse-r-cise!

silly Spencer

2012-02-12T18:56:00.001-06:00

Today Bryce was working on making his Valentine's for his class. Spencer wanted to make a couple for his friends. After finishing they both got to eat one of the treats (heart shaped Reese's cup). Spencer's eyes lit up and he said, "It tastes like invisable peanuts!"

sky tower

2012-02-12T13:53:00.002-06:00

Bryce created a sky tower and we finally got a picture before brother 1 or brother 2 happened.

laughing good times

2012-02-10T13:48:00.000-06:00

Several years ago, Grammy brought Bryce and Spencer these fun chimpanezes that make noises when you squeeze their tummies. Trevor just discovered how to do it himself and is quite tickled everytime!

happy helper

2012-02-08T13:23:00.001-06:00

Trevor is my best grocery helper. I'll find him a nice, light bag and he'll carry it in for me. Spencer helps me bring in bags until he finds the bag with whatever looks good to eat!

shutter at the clutter

2012-02-03T14:16:00.003-06:00

We had living in complete disarray lately. (I had gotten so busy working on a couple RS projects) And Trevor has officially entered the Tornado stage. I can't keep up with that little guy! We finally spent a couple of hours last Saturday to empty "my baskets" and decutter everything. Now, every night before I go to bed--the kitchen, living room, and foyer are completely spotless. It has been feeling SO good.

apparently Spencer wanted to document our mess. so here it is.

junk-er-bot

2012-02-02T17:06:00.000-06:00

Bryce and his inventions--He came home today from school with his lastest invention-- A Junk-er-bot.

He uses everything he can find to build them. He'd make his great Grandpa Fuller proud. I have a love/hate relationship with his picking up everything little thing he sees, but I can't stifle that creative gene!

volcano

2012-02-01T14:33:00.000-06:00

Bryce is working on his 3rd grade project--creating an erupting volcano. He has been so excited about it, he could hardly sleep. The base of the volcano is a golden tomato container and then a water bottle. The shape was perfect. Mixing the browns, tan, and black playdough was super fun but has caused a problem with all the playdough in the house being mixed.

He did his research and made his presentation and got a 100! He's still waiting for the rain to pass to erupt it for his class. (forgot to get finished picture)

Dejavu

2012-01-30T14:18:00.000-06:00

Trevor is just as busy as Spencer was! I didn't think it was possible to have 2 children in a row that active and busy. Like one second he's on a chair, then typing at the computer, then on top of a toilet, and then unraveling the whole roll of toilet paper, then pouring out a box of cereal on top of the table. If he didn't have that adorable smile...

Papaw's funeral

2012-01-21T21:24:00.003-06:00

We had a graveside funeral service for Papaw today. It was bitter cold.

Papaw was a genius but also very private, an internal thinker--I really enjoyed learning so much about him that I never knew from Nana, Karen, Liz, and Robert Bryce as they shared their stories and memories about this great man. mechanical engineer, a strict but loving father

the grandchildren and great grands sang I Am a Child of God

One last moment for our Bryce and Papaw

Eric now has two grandparents buried in the Harris Creek Cemetery. (and Ma and Pa are buried here too) It was so cold we didn't want to stop and read this sign so we snapped a picture and read the history. It is an intimate cemetery with a special feeling. It is kept up by the local church on site and it doesn't cost money to have a plot here--they just ask for a yearly donation of whatever you feel to donate to help keep the grounds up. It comforted us to know that Papaw's resting place is such a wonderful place.

2012-01-21T14:51:00.000-06:00

Eric's home ward had the nicest lucheon at the church for the family after the funeral. We appreicated all the effort the ward put into making it so nice. It was a great chance to warm up and catch up.

Derek, Kathyrn, Liz, me, and Ambyr

Spencer and Tyson are quite the little buddies!

back at the luncheon the kids were able to play in the other half of the gym. they were giving each other rides on the chalkboards but by the time I got my camera, most of the kids had moved on

back at Papa and Nana's house Tyson read stories to Spencer

vroom vroom

2012-01-19T21:16:00.001-06:00

first pine wood derby car is underway!

Papaw

2012-01-17T20:27:00.000-06:00

Papaw passed away today. Hebert Bryce Waters one of our Bryce's namesakes. We are going to miss hearing him tell his wild stories about driving cars with no brakes, stopping by for visits at Papaw's house just down the road from Nana and Papa's house, and his dry sense of humor. We feel so blessed to have lived close by for our entire married life. He's spent time with each of our children. He loved us and we loved him too.

Bryce and Papaw on our picinc at Whitehall Park

Papaw and Anna with baby Spencer

Papaw and Papa with baby Trevor

one of our visits to Papaw and Anna's house.

4 Generations

2012-01-14T21:22:00.003-06:00

can't believe it's already been a year!

shining!

2012-01-08T19:46:00.000-06:00

Eric was giving Bryce his first shoe shinning lesson.

Spencer came and wanted to join in on the fun. Everyone went to church with shiny new shoes!

Last days of the 2011

2012-01-01T22:40:00.004-06:00

All of my family except for Catherine & Todd and Grammy & Grandpa were able to get together for a few days to celebrate New Years. All 20 cousins were there. It's getting quite the group. We had a big Shurtz style reunion at the church

Complete with a pie eating contest and

a root beer chug a lug (juniors divison)

and Big League-- Eric remains the reigning Champ

Trevor and Spencer got to do a pinata for the first time.

"It's true Mom, there was candy in there!"

Uncle David ran the 9 and under Let's Make a Deal game. Bryce had a interesting round

He ended up with one of Trevor's dirty diapers! He was a super good sport about it.

Easiest meal of the weekend-Pizza!

There was also lots of just cousin play time. We have a picture of Fuller and Bryce in these PJ's so I had to get one of Will and Trevor 7 years later!

Matthew and Trevor loved making "music" together:)

cousin ping pong

and the preparation for the New Years Eve Performance.

David and the newest addition--little sweet Calvin.

The girls in the kitchen for Sunday dinner.

the big spread- dig in!

so fun to catch up with Rebecca!

sisters-missing Catherine

(I like to call this one the Grandma shot, I just need a cane)

all the brothers

3rd visitors

2011-12-27T10:27:00.000-06:00

Michael, Natasha, Alden, and Calvin were our next guests. Spencer and Trevor both loved having Alden here to play with. They had a great time together!

giving rides on the car was a big hit

company continues...

2011-12-26T10:14:00.000-06:00

Logan helping Trevor get the last drop of ice cream

Olivia gave me my first lavendar manicure with butterflies! so fancy!

Trevor continued being gleefullly entertained by his little hampster. That thing makes him SO happy!

cookie time, Super Mario Bros, Lego time, repeat

Christmas 2011

2011-12-25T20:58:00.000-06:00

Christmas morning--cousins lining up, excitement in the air

stockings

remote control car from Nana & Papa

Spencer's stash

Will's BIG bear

yes! a bubble gum machine!

Trevor opening his first gift

Eric loves when I make him a calendar (missed the last two years with pregnancy & newborn) so he was really excited--also got his 2 new rockport shoes

Legos guys

Eric designed and built a race roller for the boys for Christmas. They are going to have hours of fun with this thing!

the building begins... Fuller was upstairs for almost 6 hours building his Lego set

time for church

I got these new reindeer and Trevor loves the baby one. He drags it all around with him. It is so funny to see--it's like his little pet. Definitely his favorite Christmas decoration.

our 3 boys

play time

a wonderful, memorable Christmas

Christmas visitors

2011-12-24T20:36:00.001-06:00

As our second set of guest, Jon and Meghan's family joined us for Christmas Eve. The kids played beyblades and the evening we had our Christmas Eve program. Really fun to have a full cast this year! The Shurtz family performed a beautiful song for our family and finally Meghan and Fuller presented a song and book that brought the true Spirit of Christmas to our home.

We exchanged family gifts. Spencer bought Trevor some punching balloons for his family present-huge hit!! Trevor loves those silly things.

Of course, we had a spread of goodies and snacks. The spiced cider was a big hit for Jon:)

Eric read Twas the Night Before Christmas and we got the kiddos settled into bed. The cousins all loved sleeping together in the tent and bunkbeds.

Trevor and Will enjoying hanging out together too--the clean up crew!

1st visitor

2011-12-23T22:30:00.000-06:00

David arrived the Tuesday before Christmas and stayed with us til the evening of the 23rd. He was great fun to have around! We ate good food and treats and played. The boys loved having him around--especially the soccer games we played. David is tough! We'll be ready for you next time Uncle David:)

Suzanne came to pick up David and take him to her house--Jon and Meghan arrived that evening also. We had a big feast and enjoying visiting together.

break the chain

2011-12-23T20:27:00.000-06:00

the boys have loved our new tradition counting down for Christmas with break the chain--singing a Christmas song every night and taking off a chain! Favorite songs 12 Days of Christmas. "Daddy can sing it super fast!"

work & play

2011-12-22T20:19:00.000-06:00

We started a way to do our Saturday morning jobs--we decide on the jobs that need to be done and work on them all together until they are finished. We get to spend more time together and still accomplish the jobs we want done. Putting up the shelves in the garage was one of the jobs. They boys loved helping climb the ladder. (one rung per age) It's going to be so nice to have the additional room.

The weather has been perfect! We are enjoying being outside in the backyard for wagon rides, sand box fun, and soceer/football games.

Beyblade Championship

2011-12-19T20:53:00.000-06:00

For Family Home Evening Activtity we had a Beyblade Tournament.

(beyblades are like modern spinning tops) The boys used some of their money and bought several this weekend. They are actually a lot of fun to play with.

There were some intense rounds but in the end it came down to Bryce vs Eric--Bryce being victorious

and the final round was Spencer vs Bryce.

Bryce was crowned Beyblade Champ tonight.

the winning beyblade

1st Christmas Recital

2011-12-19T20:40:00.000-06:00

Bryce performed in his first Christmas recital on Friday evening. He played Jingle Bells. He did a great job and it got all of us more in the Christmas spirit.

Afterward, we had Christmas goodies and the boys enjoyed playing on the big electric piano.

I can't believe Bryce has almost been playing the piano for 1 year now. He has learned a lot in just a year! We love Mrs. Cherry!

earthworms & 100s

2011-12-18T22:39:00.001-06:00

With Bryce at school and really growing up, I feel like I blog less often about him than the other boys. He is a great student--often bringing home a whole folder of 100's home. He is also a great brother and helper around the house. I love how he creates fun and original games and actitivies for Spencer and himself. It is so fun to hear laughter and silliness from them!

One cute funny on him, today we were talking about what they are singing in Primary for Christmas. He kept talking about the earthworm song and Eric and I were like-what song is that???

So we looked it up: Stars Were Gleaming (in the Primary Children's Songbook)

Stars were gleaming, shepards dreaming; And the night was dark and chill. Angel's story rang with glory; shepards heard it on the hill. Ah that singing, Hear it ringing, Earthward winging, Christmas bringing!

Bryce thought it said earthworm winging. It was so funny. We got it all sorted out!

2011-12-17T22:09:00.007-06:00

Holiday Party 2011

Wolf

2011-12-15T20:57:00.010-06:00

Bryce advanced to the rank of Wolf at the Pack Meeting tonight.

Scouting has been such a fun thing for him so far. He really enjoys going on Thursday nights and learning new things. Now, he's got to do his good deed so we can turn my pin upright!

charming charlie's shout out!

2011-12-07T22:13:00.000-06:00

here's a shout out to all my sisters for insisting I buy my charming charlie's finds:) I love it all!

new tradition

2011-12-04T21:45:00.000-06:00

we started a new Christmas tradition this year--

Hot Cocoa and sleeping under the Christmas tree for the First Presidency's Christmas Devotional

hot cocoa during the opening song and then...

snuggling through the rest of the messages. perfect! I want to read The Mansion this Christmas season.

our christmas angel

2011-12-01T18:16:00.002-06:00

We met Eric after work to pick up our tree. Usually we all go together and Eric always gets the rope--so we got there and had one short rope and 2 Home Depot aprons:) Eric (that wonderful husband didn't even complain once about me not bringing rope) just started tying that tree on with what we had. After about 10 minutes a man started to approach us with 2 yellow bungee cords. He said he had found them on the road that very day and that he wanted us to have them. It was our first act of Christmas service and love and it was only December 1st! Our Christmas angel's cords had that tree on in minutes.

It is so nice that Bryce is starting to be big enough to help do anything we need him to do!

We worked on decorating the tree the next night. The boys always love pulling out the ornaments and waiting for the star to top it all off.

I wanted one picture of all the boys by the tree--this is how it started...

this is how it ended up

Due to Trevor's speed and agility, there is considerably less Christmas around our house this year.

helping hands

2011-12-01T16:14:00.000-06:00

I came down from getting Trevor up from his nap and found this at my kitchen table. It competely made my day!

blessings

2011-11-30T06:08:00.000-06:00

day 30

What a wonderful month of thinking about my many blessings! I am so grateful to my Heavenly Father for all that He has given me. My life is truly blessed. I am looking forward to celebrating the birth of His Son, the Savior of the world. There is no greater blessing than to know that Jesus is the Christ and that He lives!

done!

2011-11-29T12:35:00.000-06:00

day 29

I am really grateful to be done with my Christmas cards! I am mailing them off today!

home

2011-11-28T17:49:00.001-06:00

day 28

I'm grateful to have a home, a place to be together with my family.

family

2011-11-27T00:04:00.000-06:00

day 27
just being related to these good people makes me grateful. Grandpa Larry has been a temple worker in the Dallas Temple for a while now. It makes me filled with joy to see him thriving in the Gospel.

Papa and Nana worked so hard to plan and host 24 of us for a whole week. All the love they share with us and their righteous examples is such a blessing for us.

zumba

2011-11-26T19:19:00.000-06:00

day 26
Nana, Kathryn, and I went to our first Zumba class. It was a solid workout.
I'm grateful there are no pictures from the class of us shaking all around:)

Homestead Fair

2011-11-25T18:09:00.047-06:00

day 25
The day after Thanksgiving we all went to the Homestead Fair. It was SUCH a fun outing. (definitely my 2nd favorite part of trip). We went to the petting area. They had llamas

Spencer and I couldn't help but think of Llama, llama red pjama!

there were the cutest little puppies, sheep, and a pack of wild goats.

and baby chicks

we watched a sheep sheering

and mules plowing a field

we made candles

and watched a sheep herding dog show

we made our own pretzels (best part:)

there was even a real kids barn raising--Anna, Paul, and Bryce helped put up a whole barn frame!

Bryce and Eric with the "Beatle"

we used a printing press to make bookmarks

even Trevor got to help

Papa helped entertain him while we waited

I am grateful for my technology but for one day it was so nice to be together--just us and nature--without the computers, ipods, and Wii.

ThanksGiving

2011-11-24T17:50:00.000-06:00

day 24

Thanksgiving

full house

full tummies

full hearts

what better way is there to spend Thanksgiving??

We had quite the feast. Everything was delicious. We all told things we were thankful for and I felt an overwhelming sense of the Lord's hand in our lives. We are so truly blessed.

Trevor's first Thanksgiving to actually get to eat the turkey, potates, dressing, vegetables, and pie!

I got to Skpye with my parents in Enlgand which was so wonderful! and talk to many of my siblings.

highlight of trip

2011-11-23T22:21:00.000-06:00

day 23

The weather was so beautiful-the boys played outside for hours everyday. After our family pictures we all worked together on the cliff. We cleared out trees and made a lovely trail. The kids worked really hard gathering rocks for the trail. They are excited to have their club headquarters in the back corner. Working together was so much fun! I even got to break a big log in half using my body combat skills. It was my favorite time of the whole week.

We had a pizza party out in the backyard afterward. perfect day.

RAIN

2011-11-22T21:15:00.000-06:00

day 22
we finally started getting some rain! The kids-especially the Texas kids-were so excited they headed out and had a blast playing a game with all the balls being thrown over the roof back and forth.

doggies

2011-11-21T17:11:00.001-06:00

day 21

Spencer and Trevor both love dogs. They were so happy that Aunt Kathryn and Uncle Colt brought Lucy and Christy. Spencer was in the cage with those dogs and loving on them all the time.

waco trip 2011

2011-11-20T00:06:00.000-06:00

day 20

What a blessing it is to have healthy bodies that can run, play, and be active! (got to Waco and started our week of cousin fun)

happy scout

2011-11-19T21:02:00.000-06:00

day 19
Bryce received his first beads tonight and 2 new belt loops. He is really loving Scouts. I am grateful for the leaders who help support us and all the good qualities and traits he's learning.

got this licked!

2011-11-18T14:31:00.003-06:00

day 18
I am really grateful for the opportunity I have to stay home and be with my boys. It's not always easy, but after all whose job is this much fun...

Trevor transitions

2011-11-17T13:26:00.005-06:00

day 17
Trevor

I can't believe that my baby is going to be 15 months in 2 days! He has offically entered the toddler stage--like climbing on the chairs, table, and toilet. He seems to have a sixth sense for chairs being left out. But before we completely leave the darling baby stage behind, there are a couple of things that I want to remember about our little T:
He LOVES dogs! A few months ago a new neighbor moved in with 2 dogs. Trevor loves to stand by the fence and watch through the hole or cracks. Sometimes the big sheepdog frightens him a little with a big bark, but mostly he is so happy just watching.

He's cutest trick--We say, "Trevor, what does a dog say?" He puts his tongue out to the side of his mouth and pants like a dog. SO adorable!

Also, Trevor loves his blankets just like our other boys did but he doesn't suck his thumb when he gets it--he sucks/chewys right on his blanket. These poor blankets aren't going to last very long at this rate! His brothers did a great job at choosing a special blanket that Trevor loves.

I truly am grateful to be his little one's mama.

missionaries

2011-11-16T15:26:00.000-06:00

day 16
missionaries for dinner

We had the elders for dinner last night. Luckily Spencer and Trevor had their naps and so dinner went pretty smoothly. We had breakfast for dinner--Bryce's request--pancakes, sausage, cheesy egg, and strawberries and bananas with orange juice. It was yum!

The message the elders shared was based on Elder Holland's talk from Conference--We Are All Enlisted. They talked to our boys about preparing to serve missions of their own. It sure is a big responsibility to have these 3 boys prepared to go and represent the Lord. I am grateful for good examples--like Grammy and Grandpa, all Eric/my brothers, and the thousands out sharing the Gospel today.

good times

2011-11-15T15:17:00.000-06:00

day 15
good times

Sometimes I get too caught up in trying to have a perfectly clean house and perfectly behaved boys. Sometimes I need to kick back eat double stuffed red holiday Oreos and let the giggles out.

giving

2011-11-14T15:10:00.000-06:00

Day 14
spirit of thanksgiving

As part of our Family Home Evening, we went to drop off our food at the Interfaith Food Pantry. It was a really good experience for our boys. Eric and I had decided that we wanted a different experience this upcoming holiday season--a spirit of thanks and giving in our home. The boys each took some of their own money to the store and purchased food to donate. Our deal was that we would buy 4 additional cans/boxes of whatever they bought. It was a neat experience to see our boys give of themselves as we dropped off our food. It is definitely my new favorite Thanksgiving tradition.

talk #2

2011-11-13T14:50:00.000-06:00

Day 13
learning the Gospel

Bryce gave a talk in Primary today. His topic was Reverence is Love and Respect for God. We worked on it together but he really is starting to capture the process. He did a great job.
When I asked him what he thought reverence was he said, "To me, reverence is thinking about Heavenly Father and Jesus, folding my arms, and sitting quietly."

I am so grateful to have my children learning the Gospel and trying to follow God's plan.

Bryce is grateful for...

2011-11-12T16:14:00.002-06:00

Day 12
It's Bryce's day to share his grateful list

"I am grateful for BD (my blanket) and for my room. I am grateful that we live in a house. I am also grateful that we can have a sandbox in our backyard. I am grateful that we have food and that I can go to school. I am grateful that I have Legos and that I can build things. I'm grateful that Dad earns money to help us. I am grateful for the holidays and video games."

11/11/11

2011-11-11T16:22:00.001-06:00

Today I'm VERY grateful that I called Eric back after having to turn him down for the first date he asked me out for. 11 years ago today we were on our "first date." (it's was sort of date--more like a our apartment and his apartment going to the midnight movie) I didn't know it at the time but that was a big day in my life. Now, I have a fabulous husband who loves and supports me, 3 handsome boys, a lovely home, and a pretty wonderful life.

Also, just as a side note--when I started reading my scriptures this morning I looked at the top of the page and it was page 111. So I got to read page 111 on 11/11/11!

saved by Jen

2011-11-10T23:06:00.003-06:00

Day 10
shopping

Today is easy to decide what I am grateful for--I am really grateful for Jenny watching my boys for a couple of hours while I worked on whittling down my Christmas list. Shopping without children is a luxury I relish. Spend half the time and get twice as much done:) It was a nice little break since Eric has worked late every night this week. Thanks for your help Jen!

Spencer is grateful for...

2011-11-10T16:05:00.002-06:00

Day 9
Spencer's Day

Today is Spencer's day to say what he is thankful for.

"I'm grateful for my house and my blankeys. I love my blue gaga and white gaga and Chewy. I really like Halloween and Christmas too. I'm grateful for my birthday. I really like my friend Tyler too! He is really fun and he has lightsabers. I'm grateful for the doggie and the big doggie next door. I would like a dog in our back yard and then I like them so much I wish they could come in our back yard every morning."

wired

2011-11-09T14:50:00.001-06:00

Day 9

electronics

I am really grateful for all things electronic. My cell phone, ipod, laptop, printer, internet, itunes, Kitchen Aid, A/C & heat, curling iron, digital camera, oven, refrigerator, and dishwasher all things that make my life SO much easier and more pleasant.

inventive

2011-11-08T14:34:00.011-06:00

Day 8

creative play

After Stake Conference, Bryce spent an hour setting up this pulley system all through the family room and foyer. (wish I'd gotten a picture of the whole set up) It was pretty cool. He said he wished he had a bell and I said--tada! I grabbed the Christmas bell that was out from the attic. I have always loved Bryce's creative, inventive side. It makes me grateful to be blessed with such a smart, fun boy.

His brothers love it too because they get to play in all the forts, mazes, and inventions.

snuggle bugs

2011-11-07T20:32:00.000-06:00

Day 7

cool weather & snuggly boys

I am grateful for evenings spent snuggling with 3 boys fresh out of the tub and in warm pajamas. We are still loving the cooler weather.

parents

2011-11-06T20:18:00.000-06:00

Day 6

goodly parents

We finally figured out how to call my parents in England today! I got to have a wonderful, almost uninterrupted conversation with them. They are such a blessing in my life. I can directly tie them to every good decision I have made in my life. I am truly grateful for their goodness, commitment to the Lord, and their dedication to family. They are a perfectly paired match--my Dad is the thinker, the logical one. My Mom is expressive, the feeling based one. They work so smoothly together as a companionship. It was so great to visit with them today that it absolutely the thing I am most grateful for today!

work

2011-11-05T22:45:00.001-05:00

Day 5

Work and Helpers

Today was catch up day--from a fun season of soccer that ate up every Saturday morning. I started working at 5:45 am and -except for a quick lunch break-didn't stop until I finished all the boys haircuts around 4:00. It felt great to dive in and declutter and deep clean. I am grateful that my parents taught me how to work, to use "elbow grease." It is an important trait that I fear is slowly being lost by generation. I am happy to be married to a hard worker and to have sons that are good helpers. Spencer helped me clean all the bathrooms. Bryce cleaned the play room and his room. Trevor tinkered a little in everything but LOVES to sweep the most. Eric did the yard and then started to tackle the attic--everything box, bin, and bag brought out. We are still working on that part (and will be for a while)

Russ and Jen stopped by for a few minutes. We watched the neighbor's tree get cut down. Then Eric and I headed off on our dinner and a meeting date. Stake Conference is a blessing to attend. We need to focus on drinking deeply from Christ's Living Water and truly committing our lives to Him. It's something to strive for each day.

sisters

2011-11-04T19:29:00.022-05:00

Day 4

sisters

I talked with each of my sisters this week--some of the best hours of the week! It really made me reflect about how important they are in my life. I love hearing about their updates, seeing pictures of their homes, and hearing the crazy or difficult things so I remember I'm normal. I mean who else knows every movie line I quote and will tell me straight in the try on rooms?? Good listeners. Good friends. These gals are quite amazing! I'm grateful they are mine.

sweets

2011-11-03T19:19:00.000-05:00

Day 3

Sweet things

One of life's pleasures is enjoying good things to eat--so yes, I am grateful for ice cream, hot chocolate chip cookies, dulce de leche cheesecake, and Twix. There no better way to eat your favorite treats than with your favorite people! I'm grateful for my little sweeties too!

Grams

2011-11-02T22:45:00.002-05:00

Day 2
Grams & Diamonds

I am grateful to have a grandmother like Grams. I recently inherited her striking diamond earrings. It is so special to have a part of her with me. I think of her when I wear them--but the truth is that she is a diamond--a rare, precious woman--even one in a million. A sparkle to everyone she meets. I am grateful to have her support in my life. I love to talk with her now and hear her say, "Oh, Christine, we're just having fun, fun, fun!" She raised a wonderful daughter--giving me a super mom! I owe her so much. Her influence continues to have a far reaching legacy.

most amazing blessings

2011-11-01T21:30:00.000-05:00

It's November. I am determined to truly show more gratitude to my Heavenly Father during this month (and hopefully it will become a habit!) Every day of November I am going to specifically choose a blessing in my life that I am grateful for--

Day 1

My family

Family is where I truly feel the most myself, the most comfortable, my happiest. I can always count on them to love me. Even though at times life gets tough--these boys love me and I love them. No matter what. What more could you need?

Eric--his ability to do everything! it comes in so handy in my life! his willingness to be my helpmate, his strong, musical voice, his budgeting skills, his willingness to follow the Lord, his story telling abilities, his love for our boys, his easy nature, his desire to make me happy above all his needs

My boys

Bryce--his truly inquisitive nature, his ability to think things through and decide for himself, his confidence, his creative mind and constant need to learn new things

Spencer--his quick ability to laugh and find so much pleasure in life, his giving nature, his willingness to show love, his high energy for life, his curiosity about the world, his dancing blue eyes

Trevor--his constant big smile with that little gap in his front teeth, his cuddly nature, his ability to make us all smile, his eyes lighting up when he sees us, his sweet innocence

I am also grateful for our amazing cousin Ambyr for taking these new family pictures. Moments to cherish. I get this boys for such a short time and then they'll be off to start their own. I'm glad I get to enjoy the journey for now with their little hands in mine.

Happy Halloween!

2011-10-31T22:05:00.000-05:00

After a little taste of Halloween from the Trunk or Treat--the boys were ALL excited about it "Finally being Halloween!"

after our soup and scones and brief family home evening lesson (taught by Spence)--the preparation began! Bryce wanted to be a Lego man since the very first time we mentioned Halloween. We somewhat pulled it off.

Spencer was a fireman and Trevor was an astronaunt.

Trevor's favorite part of his first Trick or Treating was 1) getting and eating succors and 2) seeing this FAKE dog statue. The owner loved watching him stand there doing his adorable panting sound and petting the dog.

after a round of our neighborhood we called it quits and came home .

the counting and sorting began. Spencer picking out his favorite 10 candies.

I loved the way that Trevor was looking at Bryce with his yellow face! "who or what is THAT!?"

great weather and happy boys= another great Halloween!

weekend festivities

2011-10-30T22:18:00.001-05:00

We finished off our soccer season's Saturday with Spencer's first goal! Yeah for Spence. Bryce's team only lost one game--great coach, fun season. Had cupcakes and trophy ceremony twice (no camera, bummer)

Worked on cleaning the house with boys. Spencer cleaned 2 bathrooms and took out all the trash without a word of complaint! Woo Hoo! Worked on Bryce's Halloween costume

Went to ward Trunk or Treat. Boys all had a great time (again, no camera) Trevor had his first Dum Dum sucker and boy, is he hooked! Everytime he sees a candy or sucker--he lets you know that he wants one. Tomorrow night should be interesting. I guess we are actually going to have to let him get a few treats in his bag this time.

Made our traditional pumpkin shaped sugar cookies tonight. (only a half batch- great idea Rebecca!)
Everyone had a fun time licking their fingers and frosting the cookies.

big steps

2011-10-28T02:07:00.000-05:00

Trevor is walking all around without the wobbles. He's close to a run. He can also stand up without help. His top molars started coming in too--running a fever and painful!

Spencer is learning to print his letters. He can write his name all by himself without coaching now.

Bryce is starting his Christmas music for his piano winter recital. He also said his memorized Primary Program part perfectly. He is working on an art project at school. Western art.

(bryce's own picture)

My boys are really growing up!

doggone

2011-10-25T01:52:00.000-05:00

Our new neighbors have dogs. The little black one my boys call Emily, dug a hole under her gate and got into our yard--several times. The boys are LOVING this visit from a dog. Trevor learned to do a dog pant when you say the word dog now. It is the cutest thing in the world!

It really is a shame that their mother isn't a dog person--especially when Emily got into the house and on my couch!

more birthday weekend

2011-10-23T13:30:00.000-05:00

The girls fun didn't end there--I got to bring Suzanne, Catherine, and Rebecca home with me. And Jon was already here with my boys ready to get in on the Shurtz weekend. Aunt Suzie and Aunt Becca played Don't Wake Daddy with Spencer and Trevor.

We ate and played soccer with the boys. Spencer flips for Uncle Jon!

We had a rousing game of Imaginiff. one of my favorites to play with a lot of family here

Sunday after Sacrament we had to take Catherine back to the airport. It was finally Suzanne (and Deb's) birthday. Rebecca and I whipped up a birthday feast topped off with Mint Brownies.

Then before I knew it Suzanne had a flight to catch and Rebecca and Jon left the next morning. I love my family!

2011-10-22T11:17:00.000-05:00

The First Ever Shurtz Sisters Retreat with all 5 sisters!!! We started on Thursday night when Debbie got here. It was amazing to stand there, in my foyer, in a sister circle. It was SO MUCH FUN! We started at the Cheesecake Factory--as indecisive as we are, if took 15 minutes to decide on which cheesecakes we would be having.

Rebecca--Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough, Catherine--Hershey's, Debbie--Giant Carrot cake (with lots of parts!!!)

Suzanne--Carmel & Pecan Cheesecake, and I had my usual--Dulce de Leche (pure, sweet heaven)
Highlights--taking one taste and passing the plates around the table-cleansing our palates in between each bite

Off to the river walk we went--chatting and catching up with everyone's news
Highlights--photo shoot when Catherine stopped at the ladies room--I am still seeing flashes
I love that I can totally be myself in every way with these sisters.
And our philosophy "special PH" lesson

Friday we went for a walk together in the beautiful weather and got home to find Jen on our step! The whole group was finally together.

We skyped with Mom and Dad in England on their mission. It was such a treat! had lunch and headed off to Suzanne's place to continue the weekend.
First stop: Charming Charlie's--the birthday girls had to open Jen's gift before we went in because part of it was a gift card. pure gold.
I hit the jack pot--which was fitting because the last 2 trips I had not bought anything there. Boots, sunglasses, a flower, and a beautiful, delicate scarf. Catherine made out even better! We stayed there for like 2 hours.

Suzanne had made a delicious dinner for us. Recipe in the updates of the cookbook girls:)

The gift opening began.

perfect-- except that I ordered the wrong version of Jane Eyre for Debbie. that's a story in itself!

Grandma Fuller had sent Catherine out with chocolates for the occasion and earrings for all the spring birthday girls. We love our new bling. I'll be wearing mine to my upcoming holiday party.

PJs and Ice cream pie time!

and facials of course...

look how amazing that stuff is! Catherine and me in our new glamor glasses

Jen had to leave bright and early that morning and Debbie left right after lunch.

Highlights--finding out there is a thing called a fried avocado!
It was seriously a great time being together. Is it March yet??

countdown

2011-10-12T14:04:00.001-05:00

I have been couting down for quite a while now until today--my first sister arrives tonight for our Sister Retreat!!! I can't wait to get Catherine here tonight. Rebecca comes bright and early in the morning-Suzanne soon after and then Debbie. All 5 sisters together. wow, even saying it sounds amazing!
We are so lucky to have Jen coming on Friday too!

sand box or swimming pond?

2011-10-11T12:28:00.000-05:00

So I finally sat down to catch up on my blogs and dozens of emails only to realize that Spencer isn't just playing in the sandbox as I thought--he's practically swimming in the sand box! Seriously, laying down in water up to his chin. instead of getting upset--I pull out the camera and capture the moment.Then comes the jumping, splashing, and enjoying. Isn't that what childhood is all about?

and this from the boy that was so worried about the Drought. I guess the rain on Sunday was enough to end that.

Jon visits

2011-10-10T21:00:00.000-05:00

We were so lucky to get Jon on his Texas job hunt. Here's what he did almost all day--job search and apply for jobs. He is one dedicated worker. We hope his new job lands him directly in our backyard.

Right before he left the boys got to play Tanks with Uncle Jon.

Jon was a good sport!

The boys all wished he could have stayed longer! Tonight getting out of the tub Spencer said he wished Uncle Jon could be "another daddy." I think Jon won over his heart by playing Don't Wake Daddy and the Time Tub with him on Sunday.

mr inventor

2011-10-05T14:32:00.002-05:00

Bryce has been on an inventor's kick lately. He created his own laboratory ( in his closet). He sketches his designs on paper and then uses paper, paper plates, paper cups, styrofoam, cardboard, and tape. He has been creating everything from musical instruments and laundry stations to launchers and ball tracks. I am always surprised and impressed when he imerges from his "lab." I also know where to find my tape and scissors.

follow the signs around the house leading to...

acutal lab site

just a few of the inventions we haven't had to "recycle"

his laundry station (that had to be pulled from the wreckage to be photographed so a little disaligned-sorry bud) major collection of horns, trumpets, and oboes stashed in the lab

It's Go Get It Education Week--Monday was dress as your future career. That was easy-an inventor! (he only got called harry potter twice)

pie day

2011-10-03T21:50:00.001-05:00

Saturday night I got out the stuff to make pie crusts. Finally on Monday morning I finished and we rolled them out. Spencer had a great time helping me. We are going to have pumpkin pie for family home evening treat!

Spencer wants to include his pictures.

getting out

2011-10-01T15:50:00.002-05:00

Spencer, Trevor, and I decided it was long overdue to get out of the house and have some fun. We decided to meet Daddy at Chick-fil-a for lunch. It's peach milk shake time. oh yum.

Trevor is growing so fast! He wants to do so much for himself already--like hold his own fork.

We love his contagious smile and

his "wrinkle his nose" look. I am still trying to capture a good shot of this Trevor classic. this is as good as it gets for now.

After we dropped Eric off at work, we headed to an indoor playground at a local church. It is a huge, fun jungle place. Both the boys had a great time! Trevor was climbing up everything and I was following right along. My legs are just too long to be climbing through those things, but it made Trevor SO happy that I couldn't stop him.

rain, rain

2011-09-29T17:12:00.000-05:00

When the rain started falling we just had to run out and play! We are so grateful for the rain! The drought this summer has been unbelievable. We have had water restrictions in effect. We've been trying to help the boys be wise with their water use.

Spencer has started being able to wash his hands in the kitchen sink but turning off the water is really hard to do still. Right after he finishes washing his hands he yells,

"QUICK MOM, IT'S A DROUGHT!"

for me to turn off the water. It is the most hiliarious thing ever.

He asks me atleast 3 times a day if we are still in a drought and how do we stop a drought. I guess it's sort of like his hurricane fascination right now.

Walking with Trev

Trevor has seen a lot of soccer balls lately.

quick read

2011-09-29T16:57:00.001-05:00

Bryce has been working so hard on cub scouts, Faith in God, piano, and school. We ordered some books for him from school. He was so anxious for them to arrive. When he got home from school with his books, he had already finished reading one of them already!

Current favorites:

The Magic Tree House

Encyclopedia Brown

Secrets of Droon

BIG weekend

2011-09-25T21:23:00.002-05:00

Eric got home in time to load up the car and take the boys to their first Fathers-Son campout. S'mores were made with Fluff instead of roasted marshmellows due to the ban on fires--from the drought and fires in our area. They still had a great time playing football, sleeping in the tent, and seeing their Dad after a week. Trevor and I had a great time too-we picked up seasme chicken and then tucked T in at 7:30--I got to enjoy a chick flick:)

Saturday morning Eric dropped the boys off at 7. He headed to the Dragon Boat Race that his company was supporting. I took the boys to their soccer games. Spencer's team improved a lot. They only scored 1 goal in other team's goal. Spencer got in and kicked the ball more but still his favorite part is snack and drink afterward!
Bryce's game was hot! -isn't it almost Oct??? It was a tough game--reminded me of the BYU-Utah game--with a 2nd half come back--except in our favor. I loved hearing Bryce tell me all about what Coach Roma said to fire them up at the half!

When we got home we finally got to spend some time together--we praticed walking with Trevor. Spencer loves helping him. Trevor went from taking a couple of wobbly steps to walking from the living room to the foyer! He is like a new foal getting up on his little legs. So fun!

I went with Holly to the Relief Society Broadcast. President Uchtdorf's message was inspiring! I am trying to stop looking for my "golden ticket"and enjoy and except the ups and downs of life. Patience with myself--goodness knows I need that! Celebrating my own small successes. Good sacrifices--Foolish sacrifices --major stop and think ?--Am I committing my time and efforts for what truly matters? Sister Beck's message really aligned with what I've been reading in the new book Daughters in my Kingdom -The History and Work of the Relief Society. I've never thought about the Relief Society being apart of Christ's original church on the earth. We have a great responsibilty and work to do for the Lord's kingdom. Sister Allred's reminded me of Mom and Grandma--women of great faith and charity--life's being touched and changed through pure charity--a state of the heart. Sister Thompson's sweet stories about her grandma and the special legacy of covenants also caused me to reflect on my own ancestors. Covenants made with our Heavenly Father in the temple can help renew us and help us find joy. I came away from the meeting completely uplifted and renewed.

Church this morning at 8:30, home teachers right after, early dinner and then Eric was off again.

walker

2011-09-25T11:55:00.000-05:00

TREVOR IS WALKING!

happy fall

2011-09-23T13:30:00.001-05:00

the boys and I put up our fall decorations today! I love my fall wreath and decorations. It just makes me happy to put the autumn stuff up! We are so happy to be offically in fall time (now, if it just felt like it)

mon-wed

2011-09-21T20:36:00.000-05:00

I set a goal to work an hour in every room in the house over the next two weeks while Eric is traveling. So far I have...

organized size 4-5, 6-7, and 8 bins of boys clothes (summer in-fall out)
deep cleaned/ mopped the kitchen floor
organized toys and clothes to donate for those who lost their homes in the fires in our area

it is feeling really great! hopefully, I can keep this up.

Soccer begins!

2011-09-18T21:33:00.001-05:00

Spencer had his first soccer game yesterday. They had one practice last week but ended early because of the heat. He was a little shy and unsure of what was going on until Coach Brian put him in the goalie box during warm ups. He instantly loved being the goalie and was so happy to play it for 2 quarters of the game. He stopped all the balls except one. It was fun to see him running around-a head taller than most-going after the ball. His team is Los Angeles.

Bryce started back to another season of soccer after taking a break to play flag football and letting his parents recover from a new baby and bone spur surgery. His team is Seattle--they are NEON green. His coach is amazing! We can already tell it's going to be a great season to learn from this talented coach.

fever

2011-09-16T21:09:00.001-05:00

Trevor woke up after his nap with a 103 degree fever Wednesday. After a running a fever for 24 hours, a long doc appointment and some blood work, we're still not sure what is going on--He's been miserable off and on. He's gone through a lot of tyenol to help bring his fever down. The doc said it might be roseola. I hope whatever it is gets better soon!

boxy glasses from daddy's box

2011-09-11T19:31:00.000-05:00

Eric brought home his box from his parents' attic. He has been going through it all week. Trevor pulled these bad boys from the box and put them on. love it!

game time

2011-09-10T21:45:00.000-05:00

We got to watch the BYU-Texas game tonight. It didn't end the way we wanted it to, but we had fun watching it all together!

1 and 4

2011-09-09T19:12:00.037-05:00

Both Trev and Spence had well check ups. for the record, here's their stats at 1 and 4

Trevor
length 32"--94% and weight 20 lbs.--35%
head circum. 19.02--91.41%

Spencer
height 3'8.75--99.64% and weight 48 lbs.--99.20%
passed vision and hearing test--suggested speech therapy

4 shots each and 2 hours later we were finally heading home!

relief

2011-09-08T09:38:00.002-05:00

I can't count how many times this summer one of the boys asked to go do something outside and I responded, "It's too Blazin' hot!" I know it must have been A LOT because even Spence has started saying it. Summer 2011 Mantra: It's too BLAZIN' hot!

So when we opened the back door and felt down right cold weather it was a miracle! We even had to wear jackets to the park yesterday. I forgot what cold was.

4 years old!

2011-09-05T18:20:00.000-05:00

Spencer has been counting down to turning 4 for months. It was so great to have his special day be Labor Day so we had Daddy and Bryce home with us all day! We started the party bright and early with "Saturday cereal."

He has been asking to go fishing for weeks. It's been so hot that I kept saying another day. September 5th was beautiful weather so we headed out to fish. Spencer was so happy just casting his pole.

He got a brand new big boy bike! He was really excited to go for a ride.

When we got back, he wanted birthday cake--so we figured why not--birthday cake at 10:00.

Spencer is really a bubble gum boy so I decided to make him a "bubble gum cake"

It was off to the carousel after cake.

We had a special lasagna dinner and family home evening. Spencer had a great 4th birthday!

ode to Eric (actually odor to Eric)

2011-09-03T20:38:00.000-05:00

So Saturday was a BUSY day for Eric. He moved a family starting at 8 am then came home at 10:30 and started in at our house. The toilet had been needing some attention--Eric had seen a small medicine cup in it after we'd had a house full of kiddos. He tried to fish it out but it went down before he could. So Saturday he was going to get that out. Boy, were we surprised to see what really was clogging it up! (I felt like Eric Carle's The Very Hungry Caterpillar--wished I'd gotten a picture of it all)

Almost a whole pack of dinosaur teeth flossers

one medicine cup

one medicine syringe

one hospital baby brush

After he finished the whole toilet situation, he headed downstairs to the broken garbage disospal. I was anxious to get this fixed since he had turned off the water for the kitchen sink! another smelly job.

so he took apart his first toilet and installed his first garbage disopal and mowed the lawn--not a bad's day work.

raingutter regatta

2011-09-02T18:06:00.000-05:00

Bryce's first big Cub Scout activity--the raingutter regatta! He and Eric worked on his boat.

Bryce got to participate in the posting of the colors for the first time. We loved seeing him be apart of the ceremony with the other scouts.

Bryce won one his first race and had a close loss in the second. He had a lot of fun!

blueberry boy

2011-09-01T11:51:00.000-05:00

Trevor LOVES blueberries.

good thing they are cheaper during the summer-who could resist that face for more blueberries??

handwriting highway

2011-08-31T20:11:00.000-05:00

Spencer and I are back in our school groove--today we started on the "handwriting highway." He really loves school time together. good times.

poor baby

2011-08-31T20:07:00.000-05:00

Trevor got his finger shut in the door at Papa and Nana's house. It was so sad. We are hoping it heals quickly.

Elder Christensen returns!

2011-08-31T20:05:00.001-05:00

We're happy to have Uncle Alex return from serving a mission for our church in Odgen, Utah.

Alex's first time meeting Trevor

All the Christensen brothers

All of the nephews-except Angie's boys and the only niece with Alex!

winnie the pooh

2011-08-31T19:43:00.001-05:00

I've been wanting to take Spencer on a date to see Winnie the Pooh but haven't had a chance. We decided to go with all the cousins while we were in Waco. Spencer was pretty excited to go to the movie theater for the first time!

all the cousins!

It's kind of funny that Spencer's first movie was Trevor's first too!