The Lott Family

New House

2010-11-05T20:43:00.001-07:00

Oh, and we bought a house, too! Closed on the house Labor Day weekend, moved over the weekend, then three days later I went to Vermont. I felt so guilty!!

We are starting to get settled in this huge place.

Vermont

2010-11-05T20:32:00.000-07:00

I went to Vermont for my niece's wedding (Ashley). Loved every minute of the trip.

Back to School

2010-11-05T20:23:00.000-07:00

Time to get back to school. E is in second grade, and B started Kindergarten.

B learned to rock climb!

Just relaxing and doing hair....

Even Grandma got her hair done...

WOW! Time to Catch Up!

2010-11-05T20:06:00.000-07:00

So, I guess the world of FACEBOOK has taken over, and I haven't updated this for almost 8 months. So here we go....

This summer I took the kids to Utah for three weeks. Here are a few pictures:

BBQ and Fireworks at Aunt Tiff's

Uncle Cam caught frogs for B.

E and Grandma enjoyed game time.

Went to North Fork with cousins.

Of course some play time at the pool.

Feeding the ducks with more cousins.

Special play time with Aunt Angie.

Grandma taught E how to mow the lawns!

We had a great time in Utah!

Quick Trip to Missouri

2010-03-17T17:00:00.001-07:00

This last weekend we drove out to Independence, Missouri for John's cousins, Scott, baptism. We were so excited to be a part of this family event! We can't wait to go back and spend more time back there. Here are a few pictures...

I Hate Being Poor!!

2010-02-20T08:47:00.000-08:00

This is not a cheerful post, so if you want to ignore it, you just may want to...

It seems that there are constant reminders of how poor we are. (I know, count your many blessings...but sometimes it is ok to be down....and I feel down...)

1. Had to relinquish my rights to my kitty. I fought so hard to get her, and she was so perfect. Quiet, no clawing of furniture, used her potty...Perfect. But earlier this week she ate a bracelet of Brynleys and it got stuck in her small intestines. Needed surgery, and we couldn't pay for it. Too many medical bills with B...so, I cried all day hoping to find a miracle, and in the end had to sign her over, and walk away. She was more than a cat. She was a step to having a normal life. Heartbroken!!

I'm reminded of a line from one of my favorite movies: Sleepless in Seattle

Doctor Marcia Fieldstone: What are you going to do? Sam Baldwin: Well, I'm gonna get out of bed every morning... breath in and out all day long. Then, after a while I won't have to remind myself to get out of bed every morning and breath in and out... and, then after a while, I won't have to think about how I had it great and perfect for a while.

2. Eric and Brynley keep wanting to be in sports. Last fall I had to tell Brynley that she will never get to play soccer like her brother, since she can't play contact sports. Then quickly told her we would place her in dance. Well, once again, money is so tight that we can't afford to place her in dance, or Eric in any sports. (I know... a time and a season for all things...)

3. Would love to have my own house, but will probably be an eternal renter. We have absolutely no savings, so I have no idea how this would ever become a reality. Especially since for the last year we have been waiting for John's job to come to an end. So that leaves my income, which will be limited with the problems in DCSD and the lack of funds. Plus hitting the top of my pay scale unless I go back to get my masters...which again needs $$$.

I know I need to have faith that it will all work out. I know that everyone is feeling the same way, the effects of the economy, so I need to be more understanding... Tomorrow I will try counting those blessings, meanwhile, today, I will be sad, and feel sorry for myself.

Happy Birthday, ME!!!

2010-01-18T12:21:00.000-08:00

Yup, it's my birthday! The best is that I don't have to go to work today....SOO nice! This past year has had it's ups and downs, but I certain that this coming year will be great!

My list of top 5 things that happened this past year:
5. Never made a trip to the emergency room or stayed over at the hospital with Brynley!!
4. Nearly lost my job, hit rock bottom, but now can see the light of day!
3. John was able to work for another year with his company
2. Cut and colored my hair about 4 different times, 4 different ways...
1.Realized my happiness is dependent on me, my out look, and that I am of worth.

So, since it is my birthday, I thought I would write a list of 10 things I would like to do during my 33rd birth year. Then, in a year check back to see what I was able to accomplish...

10. Get a pedicure (it always makes a girl feel good).
9. Get a massage at least once every four months or so...
8. Buy a new couch.
7. Lose at least 10 lbs, and keep it off.
6. Go on vacation with just my husband
5. Read the Book of Mormon completely.
4. Go to the Temple at least once a month.
3. Read once book just for fun.
2. Remember others by sending cards/notes (at least 3 a month)
1. Gain a stronger testimony so I can be better in-tune and help others more.

Ok, so one more... I want to live life, not just survive or exist...LIVE it!

Well, we shall see....

Christmas at the Cabin

2009-12-28T11:56:00.000-08:00

We were so excited to spend Christmas at Grand Lake in a cabin. It was everything we had hoped for!

Christmas was wonderful and relaxing. The kids painted crafts (Thanks Sara K.) and colored pictures while Mom and Dad read books and/or took naps. They were content, and so were we. It was a wonderful time, just the four of us...healthy and happy, and together!

The whole family went skiing one day. Brynley only made two runs, then was completely worn out.

Our last day, Mark and Sarah came up too. John, Mark, Eric, and Brynley went skiing that day! Brynley made 5 runs, and Eric kept up with the big boys. However at the end of the day, his feet were hurting, so he got a ride in sled behind the snowmobile, on behalf of the ski patrol.

Dedication to Eiyse- Cam and Angie's Boy

2009-12-18T11:43:00.000-08:00

... if he wakes in Your arms... by R. A. S.

I can hardly see through my tears... today I sent my best friend of years and years

somewhere he had to go, where pain and sickness he won't have to know.

He's been with me ever since he was a pup... today I've had to give him up.

He was sick, we both knew it and I wouldn't put him through it.

Thinking back to the day my wife brought him, I told her then that I didn't want him...

"Noise and mess and bills to pay!" - I can't believe I felt that way.

Didn't know that in the end, he would be my dearest friend.

Didn't know that he would be the greatest gift that came to me.

How did one like me deserve a friend who wanted just to serve?

What was there that made him love me, with nobody else above me?

When I looked into his eyes, never did he criticize,

never did he hold a grudge, never did he try to judge.

Recently, an anxious day. "How come you don't want to play?"

Took him to the vet to see what might be wrong with my "puppy".

Worse by far than I expected, fatal illness was detected.

Nothing much that we could do but keep him comfy til he's through.

Back at home I tried to tell him of the bad luck that befell him

All I could see in his eyes was wondering why his master cries.

I don't think he understood - his eyes just asked "Wasn't I good?"

"How come now I make you sad? Let me kiss and hug you, dad!"

Two last weeks I had to try to find a way to say goodbye.

In that time I told him more than I ever had before

just how much I loved my pup, how it hurt to give him up.

How though gone, he'd always be inside my heart, a part of me.

Then today was no mistaking, I made the decision, my heart was breaking.

I called and asked the vet to come by - I didn't have to tell him why.

He arrived in awhile and asked "Are you ready?" I sighed, I nodded, I felt so unsteady.

Got down on the floor by my boy who was dying, and I just didn't care if the vet saw me crying. As my pup slipped away, the last things he felt were the kisses and hugs of his master who knelt On that "blankie" beside him to bid him goodbye,

who had just one more minute to tell him, to try to say thanks to his boy for a lifetime of love....

"Dear God, let me see him in heaven above!

But for now Lord, please hold him, watch over his rest...

if he wakes in Your arms tell him I love him best."

Sweetest dog, such a good boy. He will be missed. Our sympathies and love to Cam and Angie. I know this is a hard time for you. Wish I could give you a big hug!

Halloween Fun

2009-10-24T17:37:00.001-07:00

We went to a Pumpkin Patch today after a Halloween party at Lifetime Fitness. How cute are they?

Of course they found two HUGE pumpkins!

Here they are at the gym just before we started the fun.

Sassy Bike Diva!!

2009-10-24T17:26:00.001-07:00

Brynley first tried riding her bike about 2 or three months ago, then wouldn't do it again. She had fallen that first time, then never would try after that. So John somehow was able to get her to try again just a few weeks ago, and now she is some DIVA!!

Sweet, and sassy!!

Yup, that's my little girl!

Camping Trip

2009-10-10T16:38:00.000-07:00

Movie at the Park

2009-10-10T16:34:00.000-07:00

We attempted to go see a movie at the park. Before it started, the kids could have their faces painted, and there were games, etc. Unfortunately, we got rained out... it was a nice try though.

Last Hurrah!

2009-10-10T16:27:00.001-07:00

We decided to try Brynley out at Keystone to see how she would handle high altitudes, since we were going to go camping a few days before school started. It was a quick day trip and we had a blast. We took the tram up to the top of the mountain (oxygen in tow, just in case). Once we got up there, the resort shut down the tram. We chose to ride out the storm up there, in one of the lodges. There were about 2 other families who also stayed to ride out the storm. About an hour and half later, storm continuing, we were shuttled off the mountain in a Suburban. Exciting trip! Oh, and Brynley did fine, until the end...glad we had the oxygen with us!

Brynley's Belated Birthday present

2009-10-10T16:24:00.000-07:00

What a nice surprise!! Aunt Tiffani, et al. sent Brynley a dress up costume of Tinkerbell, a Tinkerbell doll, and much more. This girl squeeled with delight!! Of course, Tiff also sent a few things for Eric, too. (Thanks, Tiff!!)

Catching Up- End of Summer

2009-10-10T16:20:00.000-07:00

My parents came out end of July/ beginning of August for a visit. We decided to get some KFC and go to the park. It was so much fun!

100 Things I Have Done in My Life

2009-07-11T20:37:00.000-07:00

This was taken from my friend Stephanie's Blog. I had nothing better to do tonight... By the way, the things in RED are things I have actually done.

1. Started your own blog

2. Slept under the stars

3. Played in a band

4. Visited Hawaii

5. Watched a meteor shower

6. Given more than you can afford to charity

7. Been to Disneyland

8. Climbed a mountain

9. Held a praying mantis

10. Sang a solo

11. Bungee jumped

12. Swam with Sharks

13. Watched a lightning storm at sea

14. Taught yourself an art from scratch

15. Adopted a child

16. Had food poisoning

17. Walked to the top of the Statue of Liberty

18. Grown your own vegetables

19. Seen the Mona Lisa in France

20. Slept on an overnight train

21. Had a pillow fight

22. Hitch hiked

23. Taken a sick day when you’re not ill

24. Built a snow fort

25. Hugged a goat

26. Gone skinny dipping

27. Run a Marathon

28. Ridden in a gondola (a ski gondola up a mountain)

29. Seen a total eclipse

30. Watched a sunrise or sunset

31. Hit a home run

32. Been on a cruise

33. Seen Niagara Falls in person

34. Visited the birthplace of your ancestors

35. Seen a Shaker community

36. Taught yourself a new language

37. Had enough money to be truly satisfied

38. Seen the Leaning Tower of Pisa in person

39. Gone rock climbing

40. Seen Michelangelo’s David

41. Sung karaoke

42. Seen Old Faithful geyser erupt

43. Bought a stranger a meal at a restaurant

44. Visited Africa

45. Walked on a beach by moonlight

46. Been transported in an ambulance

47. Had your portrait painted

48. Gone deep sea fishing

49. Seen the Sistine Chapel in person

50. Been to the top of the Eiffel Tower in Paris

51. Gone scuba diving or snorkeling

52. Kissed in the rain

53. Played in the mud

54. Gone to a drive-in theater

55. Been in a movie

56. Visited the Great Wall of China

57. Started a business

58. Taken a martial arts class

59. Visited Russia

60. Served at a soup kitchen

61. Sold Girl Scout Cookies

62. Gone whale watching

63. Got flowers for no reason (not from my husband!)

64. Donated blood, platelets or plasma

65. Gone sky diving

66. Visited a Nazi Concentration Camp

67. Bounced a check

68. Flown in a hot air balloon

69. Saved a favorite childhood toy
70. Visited the Lincoln Memorial

71. Eaten Caviar

72. Pieced a quilt

73. Stood in Times Square

74. Toured the Everglades

75. Been fired from a job

76. Seen the Changing of the Guards in London

77. Broken a bone

78. Been on a speeding motorcycle

79. Seen the Grand Canyon in person

80. Published a book

81. Visited the Vatican

82. Bought a brand new car

83. Walked in Jerusalem

84. Had your picture in the newspaper

85. Read the entire Book of Mormon or Bible

86. Visited the White House

87. Killed and prepared an animal for eating

88. Had chickenpox

89. Saved someone’s life

90. Had your heart stop

91. Met someone famous

92. Joined a book club

93. Lost a loved one

94. Had a baby

95. Seen the Alamo in person

96. Swam in the Great Salt Lake

97. Been involved in a law suit

98. Owned a cell phone

99. Been stung by a bee

100. Read an entire book in one day

I want to add a few other weird things that have happened...

Was asked to go on a blind date with an unknown customer's brother's friend (and actually went!) ...
Wrote to a missionary (I had never met) for over a year...
Was a model for a Department Store...
Saw the changing of the guards in Czechslovakia....
Was in Czechslovakia when it split into the Czech Republic and Slovakia...
Met my sweetheart on a blind date...
My daughter's heart has been stopped, oh, 5 times...
Had chicken pox and measles at the same time, with my brother...
Been in 2 car wrecks in less than 5 minutes...

What fun things have you done?

This and That...

2009-07-10T14:27:00.000-07:00

Here are a few other pictures from the camera...

John and I took the kids to the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo. We took a lot of pictures, but I accidentally erased them..OOPS! At least I had this one of Eric with the Giraffe's.

We get a lot of severe thunderstorms / tornado's out here. This didn't develop into anything big, but I thought the clouds and the colors were awsome!

Today while I was updating this blog, Eric got a bloody nose. This was his solution to keeping it from bleeding:

Then after making a few adjustments, he was able to make it stay on his face without any hands to keep it on! He was so proud of himself...

4th of July

2009-07-10T14:19:00.000-07:00

This year, I was out of town at a conference in Keystone for a few days. So we had Grandma Lott come in to stay with the kids while John worked. These are photos of the kids at the Bishop's Breakfast for the 4th, and then later I took one shot of the kids watching the fireworks (sorry is such a blurry shot).

Summer Fun!

2009-07-10T14:03:00.000-07:00

This summer we have done many fun things! We enjoy going to a Sprinkler Park in Aurora...

We like to take friends with us too...

This day, it was too cold to be in the water, so we went over to the play area of the park.

We went to The Denver Zoo with Uncle Mark, Aunt Sarah, Baby Christen and Grandma Lott

Brynley enjoyed having Grandma Lott read one on B's favorite books.

Grandma also gave Eric his summer buzz haircut!!

Eric didn't like the buzzers all that much.
You'll have to see his other pictures to see how it turned out... I forgot to take a post picture.

Mary Had a Little Lamb...

2009-06-22T08:47:00.000-07:00

On the way to church yesterday the kids were singing songs... this was Brynley's version:

Mary had a little lamb, the police were white and slow...

We laughed so hard!!!

Notes From Church

2009-06-08T09:44:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, our speaker in RS focused her lesson on a line from the song Choose The Right: "Choose the right, let no spirit of digression overcome you in the deepest hour." We discussed that we all need to have great faith to battle the spirit of digression.

What do we do, personally, to help get out of those depths? How does your faith move you forward? Some said they took a bath, listened to music, made a phone call, physically removed themselves to a better place like the temple grounds. I shared how my mother reminds me that there is a time and a season for all things...and I have learned that with Brynley and the roller coaster up good times and bad, that it is ok to feel mad, feel disappointed, feel overwhelmed, but it does us no good to dwell upon that. That we must pull our selves out of the depths.

I personally try to call a friend (Destre Downing) who doesn't mind listening to my depressed moments. I am thankful for her. She always finds a positive spin on things, and reminds me that all trials do come to an end.

No one is exempt from trials...there are only variations...

From the Ensign, May 2004 by Elder Dennis E. Simmons:

Our scriptures and our history are replete with accounts of God’s great men and women who believed that He would deliver them, but if not, they demonstrated that they would trust and be true.

He has the power, but it’s our test.

What does the Lord expect of us with respect to our challenges? He expects us to do all we can do. He does the rest. Nephi said, “For we know that it is by grace that we are saved, after all we can do.” 19

Our God will deliver us from ridicule and persecution,

but if not. …

Our God will deliver us from sickness and disease,

but if not … .

He will deliver us from loneliness, depression, or fear,

but if not. …

Our God will deliver us from threats, accusations, and insecurity,

but if not. …

He will deliver us from death or impairment of loved ones,

but if not, …

we will trust in the Lord.

Our God will see that we receive justice and fairness,

but if not. …

He will make sure that we are loved and recognized,

but if not. …

We will receive a perfect companion and righteous and obedient children,

but if not, …

we will have faith in the Lord Jesus Christ, knowing that if we do all we can do, we will, in His time and in His way, be delivered and receive all that He has. 20

Have faith, and trust in Him. This is my testimony. Misty

My Neice's Graduation Bash!!

2009-06-06T19:01:00.000-07:00

Yup...that's my sister!! Kaysville worst neighbor, but coolest Mom!! This is what she wrote about the whole thing:

I guess on the invitations, I should have put "Kaysville, lock up your daughters...evil is coming to town!" Of course the neighbors arose to the occasion, first by standing in their yards with baseball bats, then blocking off the road with garbage cans, then calling the police nonstop beginning at 9pm. Granted, the band brought ALL their speakers (loud enough to be heard more than a mile radius) playing songs like "shout at the devil" and one of their songs that starts out with a chain saw cutting up a lady and she is screaming!!!! But the kicker was probably when at 10 pm, they dedicated the chainsaw song to all the wonderful neighbors we have!! That is when the cops showed up, who were awesome, and stayed, letting us play till 10:30. So yep, we are officially the worst neighbors in kaysville! Yes! Just what I was aiming for! But Malari had fun and that is all that matters!

Personally, I wish I would have attended a party like that when I graduated!! How cool!! And by the way, their neighbors deserved it, so don't feel bad for them....and besides...it was just one night, and good clean fun. Tiff said the band was instructed to play songs that didn't have any cursing, and the band even handed out T-Shirts and CD's for them all!! Seriously, how fun!!

Notes From Church

2009-06-02T14:23:00.000-07:00

So now that I get to go to RS on Sunday's, I decided that I would write down some of the words and impressions from the lesson/speaker. In May, a member of our Stake Presidency who is also a family counselor, spoke to the women. It was so great!! (I just found the notes after cleaning off half of my kitchen table...) He spoke about the expectations we place on ourselves at church, school, work, etc. ...they are created by us... unmet expectations will lead to strained relationships and communication will be the first to go.

Whenever I am at the temple, there is a word that has puzzled me for such a long time...enmity. I finally heard a definition that helps me understand what it is...enmity...a mean deep seeded dislike; a wrong that attacks relationships; born by unmet expectations.

He counseled us to:
1. Rid ourselves of unrealistic expecations.
2. Communicate expectations while there is still love.
3. We do not get all our expectations met.
4. Go to your knees, even during the middle of the day.
5. Be careful not to let expectations remove yourself from the Savior- the Lord is concerned and wants our happiness.

This lesson had come at such a great time for me, since I have really struggled at my workplace for some time. I hope that I will remember these thoughts, which is why I decided to write them down in my blog...

Yes, it's more likely to Snow for Easter than Christmas!!

2009-04-17T14:45:00.000-07:00

I wonder why people who are native to this area are always so shocked when it still snows in April? The last 8 years it has always done this? Yeah, Yeah I know...you want spring time, and we get that too..with rain storms all through the summer. Hello people, you live in the Rockies!!! Not Texas!

In Parker, streets look mostly like this, but

it is so terrible down in Castle Rock. I think right now they are reporting 8 inches...which I totally believe!! With being so high there, they wer getting dumped on when we left school.

What we are having now here in Parker is what it was like at 8:00 in Castle Rock. Nasty drive home, until I got to Stroh Ranch. I DO beleive that they will get a lot of snow down there.

This morning I was SO hoping for a snow day, with the forcasters saying we would probably get 10 - 18 inches in Castle Rock. But, no. Nope, we all trudged down to work, and tried to be positive knowing that we would probably be stuck at school, then have to try to make it home in horrible conditions.

By 9:00, the rumor was that we would be sending kids home...at 11:00 we find out that we are going to have the kids stay for lunch, then send them home, closing the school by 1:30. I had 7 kids not come in, so we played games, went to specials, then learned a new song to go along with our Marketplace unit. (Which was a lot of fun , and spent nearly 45 minutes playing..I mean learning it.)

Of course, contacting parents and letting them know that we are closing the school, and then asking what arrangements they had for their child was an added bonus. Like teachers are the ones that decided to make the kids come to school for a few hours only to call parents home from work in the middle of the day was OUR (i.e. the teacher's) idea. Yup, I much rather drag my kids out of bed at 6:30 in the morning, travel unsafe roads at 35 miles per hour (on a road that is 55mph), and entertain kids for a few hours (since learning is really out of the question on days like this), just to interupt and inconvenience the parent. Yup, that is what I like to do!!

Anyhow, the funny thing about it all is that the snow storms really aren't as bad as what Utah winter storms are like. I can't figure out why it is such a big deal here, why they have to close schools, etc. I can't remember if Utah school buses are better equiped or what. I do know that the school district is spread out more, and that there are more rural parts to every school out here (yeah Colorado for building in green spaces into neighborhoods). But, still, I am not sure why things close down out here. I do think that one reason may be because when it dumps here, it really dumps! Hence, 18 inches predicted in Castle Rock.

Still, I am baffled as to why the natives, or the people here, complain so much when we only get a few days of snow, and then it is gone within 1-2 days. We have it pretty good! Decent temperatures through out the year, snow that is gone within days, not too hot and not too cold. We have it pretty good!

Well, I am going to stop rambling, and get to more important things like checking my facebook. By the way...I am so glad school WAS cancelled!!

Something Cam hasn't tried

2009-03-15T08:17:00.001-07:00

Extreme Mowing - Click here for more free videos

Christmas Picts.

2009-01-10T15:51:00.000-08:00

Princess Brynley

A very happy Grandpa

So, with all the fun of Christmas, I realized that I didn't take any pictures ...ANY!! We do have some video, but thanks to Angie, I have some photos to post.

The Beck Family!!

Featuring:
Cam and Angie
Brandon, Illeen, Hunter, Jaxon (Ashley was not in town this year)
Tiffani, Torben, Madison, Malari
Misty, John, Eric, Brynley
Merrill, Anthea, and of course...Nana

Some new photos!

2009-01-02T18:13:00.000-08:00

Thought I would share some more photos....

Merry Christmas to us!

2009-01-02T18:08:00.000-08:00

We had a great time in Utah for Christmas...Did a lot of the usual run around try to see everyone we had a great time!!We started home this past Monday, and just got past South Weber when the engine in the Malibu blew up. After being towed back to Mom and Dad's, we set out to purchase a new(er) car. Tuesday we set out again looking for the best deal, and by the end of the day we had found a great deal. We found a great 2006 Grand Caravan that is completely loaded. We had looked at some SUV's but found this van...It has everything!! Leather seats, heated seats, 6disc DVD player, 5disc CD player, sunroof, etc. So, I got my wish...a longer trip, and a new car.

Grandma's Visit

2008-11-29T18:05:00.000-08:00

My mom came out back in October for Brynley's surgery. (Brynley had another heart cath done since her pressure levels had gone up and was highest it had been since her open heart. Dr. Miller wanted to see accurate measurements of her levels, and to try out a few things to see if he could get the pressures to go down.)

Anyhow, I was glad to have my mom come in for the week to help me stay calm (ha Ha) and to visit with the kids. Of course we also went shopping, cleaned the basement
(major overhaul), and managed to make new curtains for my kitchen. It was a great week!!

Visits to Fort Collins

2008-11-29T17:50:00.001-08:00

John's brother Mark and wife Sarah live in Fort Collins and we go up there every once in a while. They live in a beautiful area with a ponds, large trees, walking paths, and of course geese. On an earlier visit, Brynley insisted on wearing her "Princess" dress. This dress she picked out for her birthday with some money her Aunt Tiffani and sent. Everything about this dress personifies Brynley...it is "The Perfect Dress". I think she would wear it everyday if she could.

On a more recent visit to Mark and Sarah's, we went for a walk before church. It was the most beautiful Sabbath morning. I felt so calm, relaxed, and close to nature. We took a few pictures while out...I think I will use some of them for our Holiday cards....

Fall in Colorado

2008-11-29T17:45:00.000-08:00

I love fall in Colorado! The colors are just amazing and the weather is perfect!! Some days just recently we even had temperatures in the 70s! WOW! Here is a picture of the tree in front of the house. I came home on afternoon and it was blazing in color. I had to take a picture of it!!

Eric...Spiderman in training!

2008-11-29T17:35:00.000-08:00

We love to go to the gym that is by us. It has become a natural part of our lifestyle. We are lucky that we can go to such a nice place, and that the kids can participate in the activities there. Here are a few pictures of Eric on the climbing wall.

It is two stories, and after just a little coaching by John he was off and ready to go. He is getting really good at it, and taking big risks by jumping to higher spots. He amazes me.

Welcoming Cousin Christian

2008-11-29T17:25:00.000-08:00

Eric and Brynley were really excited to have a new cousin join us...Brynley was bouncing up and down non-stop the day we told her she was finally going to meet him. She was in awe with how tiny he was, and wondering why he was crying, why he did this, and why he did that! It was great!!
Eric loved seeing this new cousin as well. He has always been great with little kids...you can just see it in his face.Of course, John and I were also thoroughly enjoying our time as well!

Halloween

2008-11-27T09:06:00.000-08:00

I know that I have neglected this blog....Oh, well. Today I finally have time to put up some more pictures and catch up on what has been happening since July....The next few blogs may not be in order, but at least they will finally be up....

Eric and Brynley were in their same costumes this year as last..Eric the ferocious Tiger and Brynley the one and only Pink Giraffe...
They both really enjoyed cutting pumpkins and cleaning them out.
Come Halloween night, Eric changed his mind and wanted to be a duck... a costume from two years ago. It was a tight snug, but he made it work. A friend of mine, Tori, came over with her son Eli. I sent Eric off with the neighbors since he goes so much faster than Brynley, and Eli and Brynley made the rounds with us. We all had a lot of fun!

Testing , Testing, One, two, three...

2008-07-21T08:00:00.000-07:00

Last night Eric says to us: " Mommy, can I have some cat juice?" Since I have inherited the Beck hearing, or lack of hearing, I quickly asked him to repeat himself... " Can I have some cat juice?" This time John's ears are hearing the same as me as we give each other a look. We both are trying to figure what words are even similar, finally John says, " You mean CASHEWS?" Phew, for a moment there I thought my son was wanting to find some lactating cat out there, to get a drink!

Brynley's Last Appointment

2008-06-27T18:11:00.000-07:00

Hi there.many of you already read this in a recent email,
but I still wanted to post it:

Brynley had a cardiology appointment today. She was
last seen in April, at that time the DR. made some changes
in her medicine due to elevated pulmonary pressures. He
wanted her back in four months, but I had them bump it
up so that if there were to be any action taken, it wouldn't
conflict with school.

Dr. Miller was pleasantly surprised to see that her blood
pressure levels have come down a bit. She was at a 52
from 64, and he would like it to be (ideally)in the 30s....
eventually.  Like I said, he was happy that it did come down
a bit, but would like to see her back again in 3 months. He is
trying to postpone the chance of her having to go to the cath.
lab, and if the pressures continue to go down, we probably
won't do it. (My guess is that we will.)

I asked what the long term outlook is for her, and he said that
he foresees that she will have high blood pressures, since there
was such extensive damage done to the heart in the very
beginning. It just may take a few years yet for that to get down to
where it is more acceptable.

Anyhow, I just thought I would let you all know how it went.
Please continue to keep her in your prayers. She still struggles with
rapid breathing, and excessive sweating. She recently has had a
cough, but the DR. doesn't think that it is related, but may be more
of a precursor to asthma or it may be allergies.

Lots of love to you all!
John, Misty, Eric and Brynley

Eric's Preschool Graduation

2008-06-26T14:51:00.000-07:00

Eric is on the end on the right. He was so cute! My camera battery died during ceremonies, bummer!
This fall Eric will attend the same school that I am at for Kindergarten. I am excited to have him there with me so that I can be more involved, and know what he is learning!

Summertime at the gym

2008-06-26T14:48:00.001-07:00

Eric and Mary just love to swim together. Eric hates getting water near his eyes, so the big mask is a necessity.

Candid Shots

2008-06-26T14:35:00.000-07:00

Yes, somewhere in that basket is a little sister that just loves it when her big brother comes up with one of his "super fun" ideas!

These last two shots were also taken at Sea World. Brynley didn't care much for the 4-D movie, but hey the glasses are cool, huh!
Again at Journey to Atlantis!

More Sea World

2008-06-26T14:28:00.000-07:00

Here are few other favorites!

Eric at Journey to Atlantis, he loved this ride. It was his first roller coaster ride, so we had to come back to it a few more times.

Airline tickets $700, Sea World passes $100, the look on his face... Priceless!

Spring Break- Sea World

2008-06-26T14:22:00.000-07:00

For Spring break we went to San Antonio to visit with Mike and Mindy and their kids!
We also visited the Alamo, and of course the River Walk.

We spent two days at Sea World. This is a rare moment of Brynley enjoying Sea World. Right after this show, she became quite ill and was sleeping the rest of the trip. But Eric enjoyed seeing the animals and playing with his new friends!

Splish, Splash Fun!!

2008-06-26T14:19:00.000-07:00

Eric and Brynley got some bath crayons, and just loved drawing on the tile!, oh and on each other, too. Aren't they cute?

Eric and Brynley get spoiled

2008-06-26T14:14:00.000-07:00

Eric and Brynley spent the night at Uncle Mark and Aunt Sarah's! They loved having the attention from their aunt and uncle! It was also a good learning experience for the aunt and uncle. I am not sure who had more fun?!

Isn't this great?! A "favorite" look of Eric's.

Eric's Ski Day

2008-06-26T14:10:00.000-07:00

Ok, so now that it is summer, I have time to update my blog. For Eric's Birthday, we took him skiing! He was a natural!

I think he had fun!

Happy Mother's Day!!

2008-05-11T19:34:00.000-07:00

I, Misty, having been born of goodly parents, having been raised in such a caring community of friends, and family; have learned many great and wonderful things...

From my mother, I have learned...
1. Service- Mom has always helped EVERYONE around her. From church to Miss Roy, my mother has alsways helped those around her. Today at church I was reminissing, and recalled when I was younger, a neighbor had been in a tragic accident. Every morning mom would go over to their house to do the girls hair. Not only that, but one of the under privelaged families down the street, had two girls as well, and mom would do their hair too. Mom has always helped those who are in need.

2. Sacrifice- Mom has always been creative. She has always found ways to stretch the dollar to the fullest. When we were fundraising for the trip to Germany, I know that both mom and dad sold everything, scrimped and saved so that they could provide this experience. There were so many trip and activities that whenever they could, they both would find a way so that we as children could participate in whatever we wanted.

3. Being a Mother- I have fond memories of crawling up on mom and dad's bed and snuggling, watching either English comedies, or Star Trek; memories of her rubbing my back tenderly; helping me with homework, or staying up late retyping a paper that had been lost; sitting on my bed and tenderly listening to my heart broken cries (friendship or boyfriend problems); even after I married, she came over to kill a spider that was stalking me...

4. Sense of humor- I remember hearing that she sent a sympathy card to Cameron for his birthday. Cam wasn't sure if she "just didn't know what kind of card it was" or if she had done it on purpose. It was so funny when we found out she had done it on purpose!! Mom has helped bring humor during my difficult times... there have been several times when mom has been out here and while we were waiting for dad to come in to DIA that I said something dumb, and we had a great laugh.

I love my mother so very much. I have learned so much from her. She willingly and selflessly helps others....I know that she loves me, and will be there whenever I need her, even if it just has to be on the telephone. Everyday I think of her, and hope that she is proud of who I am and will become. I hope I can be like her when I grow up.

I love you mom!!

God is like....

2008-05-04T20:21:00.001-07:00

A fifth grade teacher in a Christian school asked her class to look at TV commercials and see if they could use them in some way to communicate ideas about God.

Here are some of the results: scroll down.

God is like.
BAYER ASPIRIN
He works miracles.

God is like.
a FORD
He's got a better idea.

God is like.
COKE
He's the real thing.

(This is great)

God is like.
HALLMARK CARDS
He cares enough to send His very best.

God is like.
TIDE
He gets the stains out that others leave behind.

God is like.
GENERAL ELECTRIC
He brings good things to life.

God is like.
SEARS
He has everything.

God is like.
ALKA-SELTZER
Try Him, you'll like Him

God is like.
SCOTCH TAPE
You can't see Him, but you know He's there.

God is like.
DELTA
He's ready when you are.

God is like.
ALLSTATE
You're in good hands with Him.

God is like.
VO-5 Hair Spray
He holds through all kinds of weather.

God is like.
DIAL SOAP
Aren't you glad you have Him? Don't you wish everybody did?

(that one is my favorite)

God is like.
the U.S. POST OFFICE
Neither rain, nor snow, nor sleet nor ice will keep Him from His appointed destination.

God is like.
Chevrolet. . . .the heart beat of America

God is like
Maxwell House. . .
Good to the very last drop

God is like.
Bounty. . . .
He is the quicker picker upper. . can handle the tough jobs. . .and He won't fall apart on you

Choices

2008-05-01T07:17:00.000-07:00

John is the kind of guy you love to hate. He is always in a good mood and always has something positive to say. When someone would ask him how he was doing, he would reply, 'If I were any better, I would be twins!'

He was a natural motivator.

If an employee was having a bad day, John was there telling the employee how to look on the positive side of the situation.

Seeing this style really made me curious, so one day I went up and asked him, 'I don't get it!

You can't be a positive person all of the time. How do you do it?'

He replied, 'Each morning I wake up and say to myself, you have two choices today. You can choose to be in a good mood or .. You can choose to be in a bad mood

I choose to be in a good mood.'

Each time something bad happens, I can choose to be a victim or...I can choose to learn from it. I choose to learn from it.

Every time someone comes to me complaining, I can choose to accept their complaining or... I can point out the positive side of life. I choose the positive side of life.

'Yeah, right, it's not that easy,' I protested.

'Yes, it is,' he said. 'Life is all about choices. When you cut away all the junk, every situation is a choice. You choose how you react to situations. You choose how people affect your mood.

You choose to be in a good mood or bad mood. The bottom line: It's your choice how you live your life.'

I reflected on what he said. Soon hereafter, I left the Tower Industry to start my own business. We lost touch, but I often thought about him when I made a choice about life instead of reacting to it.

Several years later, I heard that he was involved in a serious accident, falling some 60 feet from a communications tower.

After 18 hours of surgery and weeks of intensive care, he was released from the hospital with rods placed in his back.

I saw him about six months after the accident.

When I asked him how he was, he replied, 'If I were any better, I'd be twins...Wanna see my scars?'

I declined to see his wounds, but I did ask him what had gone through his mind as the accident took place.

'The first thing that went through my mind was the well-being of my soon-to-be born daughter,' he replied. 'Then, as I lay on the ground, I remembered that I had two choices: I could choose to live or...I could choose to die. I chose to live.'

'Weren't you scared? Did you lose consciousness?' I asked

He continued, '..the paramedics were great.

They kept telling me I was going to be fine. But when they wheeled me into the ER and I saw the expressions on the faces of the doctors and nurses, I got really scared. In their eyes, I read 'he's a dead man'. I knew I needed to take action.'

'What did you do?' I asked.

'Well, there was a big burly nurse shouting questions at me,' said John. 'She asked if I was allergic to anything 'Yes, I replied.' The doctors and nurses stopped working as they waited for my reply. I took a deep breath and yelled, 'Gravity'.'

Over their laughter, I told them, 'I am choosing to live. Operate on me as if I am alive, not dead.'

He lived, thanks to the skill of his doctors, but also because of his amazing attitude... I learned from him that every day we have the choice to live fully.

Attitude, after all, is everything.

Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.' Matthew 6:34.

After all today is the tomorrow you worried about yesterday.

Becoming a Parent

2008-04-28T15:10:00.000-07:00

Thinking of having kids? (For those of us that do…sound familiar??)
Do this 11 step program first!

Lesson 1
1. Go to the grocery store.
2. Arrange to have your salary paid directly to their head office.
3. Go home.
4. Pick up the paper.
5. Read it for the last time.

Lesson 2
Before you finally go ahead and have children, find a couple who already are parents and berate them about their...
1. Methods of discipline.
2. Lack of patience.
3. Appallingly low tolerance levels.
4. Allowing their children to run wild.
5. Suggest ways in which they might improve their child's breastfeeding, sleep habits, toilet training, table manners, and overall behavior.
Enjoy it because it will be the last time in your life you will have all the answers.

Lesson 3
A really good way to discover how the nights might feel...
1. Get home from work and immediately begin walking around the living room from 5PM to 10PM carrying a wet bag weighing approximately 8-12 pounds, with a radio turned to static (or some other obnoxious sound) playing loudly. (Eat cold food with one hand for dinner)
2. At 10PM, put the bag gently down, set the alarm for midnight, and go
to sleep.
3. Get up at 12 and walk around the living room again, with the bag, until 1AM.
4. Set the alarm for 3AM.
5. As you can't get back to sleep, get up at 2AM and make a drink and watch an infomercial.
6. Go to bed at 2:45AM.
7. Get up at 3AM when the alarm goes off.
8. Sing songs quietly in the dark until 4AM.
9. Get up. Make breakfast. Get ready for work and go to work (work hard and be productive)
Repeat steps 1-9 each night. Keep this up for 3-5 years. Look cheerful and together.

Lesson 4
Can you stand the mess children make? To find out...
1. Smear peanut butter onto the sofa and jam onto the curtains.
2. Hide a piece of raw chicken behind the stereo and leave it there all summer.
3. Stick your fingers in the flower bed, then rub them on the clean walls.
4 . Take your favorite book, photo album, etc. Wreck it.
5 . Spill milk on your new pillows. Cover the stains with crayons.
How does that look?

Lesson 5
Dressing small children is not as easy as it seems.
1. Buy an octopus and a small bag made out of loose mesh.
2. Attempt to put the octopus into the bag so that none of the arms hang out.
Time allowed for this - all morning.

Lesson 6
Forget the BMW and buy a mini-van. And don't think that you can leave it out in the driveway spotless and shining. Family cars don't look like that.
1. Buy a chocolate ice cream cone and put it in the glove compartment.
Leave it there.
2. Get a dime. Stick it in the CD player.
3. Take a family size package of chocolate cookies. Mash them into the back seat. Sprinkle Cheerios all over the floor, then smash them with your foot.
4. Run a garden rake along both sides of the car.

Lesson 7
Go to the local grocery store. Take with you the closest thing you can find to a pre-school child. (A full-grown goat is an excellent choice).
If you intend to have more than one child, then definitely take more than
one goat. Buy your week's groceries without letting the goats out of your
sight. Pay for everything the goat eats or destroys. Until you can easily
accomplish this, do not even contemplate having children.

Lesson 8
1. Hollow out a melon.
2. Make a small hole in the side.
3. Suspend it from the ceiling and swing it from side to side.
4. Now get a bowl of soggy Cheerios and attempt to spoon them into the swaying melon by pretending to be an airplane.
5. Continue until half the Cheerios are gone.
6. Tip half into your lap. The other half, just throw up in the air.
You are now ready to feed a nine- month-old baby.

Lesson 9
Learn the names of every character from Sesame Street , Barney, Disney,
the Backyardigans, and Pokemon. Watch nothing else on TV but PBS, the
Disney channel or Noggin for at least five years . (I know, you're
thinking "What's 'Noggin"?) Exactly the point.

Lesson 10
Make a recording of Fran Drescher saying 'mommy' repeatedly. (Important:
allow no more than a four second delay between each 'mommy'; occasional
crescendo to the level of a supersonic jet is required). Play this tape in your car everywhere you go for the next four years. You are now ready to take a long trip with a toddler.

Lesson 11
Start talking to an adult of your choice. Have someone else continually tug on your skirt hem, shirt- sleeve, or elbow while playing the 'mommy'
tape made from Lesson 10 above. You are now ready to have a conversation with an adult while there is a child in the room.

You're from Colorado if----

2008-02-19T11:03:00.000-08:00

You'll eat ice cream in the winter.

When the weather report says it's going to be 65 degrees, you shave your legs and wear a skirt.

It snows 10 inches and you don't expect school to be cancelled.

You'll wear flip flops every day of the year, regardless of temperature.

You have no accent at all, but can hear other people's. And then you make fun of them.

'Humid' is over 25%.

Your sense of direction is: Toward the mountains and Away from the mountains.

You say 'the interstate' and everybody knows which one.

You think that May is a totally normal month for a blizzard.

You grew up planning your Halloween costumes around your coat.

You know what the Continental Divide is.

You don't think Coors beer is that big a deal.

You went to Casa Bonita as a kid.

You've gone off-roading in a vehicle that was never intended for such activities.

You always know the elevation of where you are.

You wake up to a beautiful, 80 degree day and you wonder if it's going to snow tomorrow.

You don't care that some company renamed it, the Broncos still play at Mile High.

Every movie theater has military and student discounts.

Everybody wears jeans to church.

You actually know that South Park is a real place not just a show on TV.

You know what a 'trust fund hippy' is, and you know its natural habitat is Boulder.

You know you're talking to a fellow Coloradoan when they call it Elitches, not Six Flags.

A bear on your front porch doesn't bother you.

Your two favorite teams are the Broncos and whoever is beating the crap out of the Raiders.

You've been to the original Chipotle near the DU campus on Evans.

When people out East tell you they have mountains in their state too, you just laugh.

You go anywhere else on the planet and the air feels 'sticky' and you notice the sky is no longer blue.

New Service Available

2008-02-12T14:32:00.000-08:00

ZION VISITING TEACHING SERVICE

' We Care Because You Don't Have Time To'

* Visiting teaching getting you down?

* Can't get that annoying Relief Society President off your back?

* Visiting teaching interfering with your valuable television and craft time?

WE CAN HELP!

At Zion 's Visiting Teaching Service, we'll do your visiting teaching for you.

For a small monthly fee, we will send one of our representatives to the homes of your sisters.

* For $10.00 per sister, we will provide a visit.
* For $15.00 per sister, we will provide a spiritual message.
* For $20.00 per sister, we will remember birthdays and anniversaries.
$20 isn't too much to pay for Peace of Mind. So give us a call at:

1-800-462-2879 - That's 1-800-IM-2-BUSY

Because of high volume an extra $15.00 will be added to all services required on the last day of the month.

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Check Out Our New Services!!!

Meetings: We will send a representative to the appropriate meeting to take notes for you and report back.

Ward Council Meeting $30

Ward Council Meeting with written report $50

Presidency Meetings $20

PEC $25

Sacrament Meeting $20

Sunday School $20

Priesthood $20

3-hour Sunday Block (best value) $50

PLEASE NOTE: Surcharge of 10% for stake meetings

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Basic Lesson (40 minutes) $25

Deluxe (Basic + visual aides) $35

Super Deluxe (Deluxe + Handouts) $45

Due to high expectations, centerpieces and floral arrangements, Relief Society lessons are slightly higher. Call for quote.

Due to lower expectations, priesthood lessons receive a 10% discount.

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Introducing our new:

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If you just can't possibly throw together food for various Ward occasions,

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Our basic services include:

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Remember our number: 1-822-S-L-A-C-K-E-R

New Year's Eve

2008-01-05T16:27:00.000-08:00

Mark and Sarah came down from Fort Collins for New Year's Eve. THe kids really enjoyed playing games with their Aunt and Uncle. Eric was extremely excited and bouncing off the walls, but hey, what's new?! After the kids were in bed the adults enjoyed playing Apples to Apples.
New Year's day we went to the Museum of Nature and Science. I forgot my camera... but it was quite fun to watch the determination of John and Mark as they attempted to "park" the space shuttle. Of course my favorite exhibit is the Rocks and Minerals, and I tried convincing John that for our Anniversary this year (ten year anninversary) that he could pick me up one the rare gems in the exhibit... a topaz that was over 1oo, 000 carats... that's not asking for much, is it?

Technology These Days

2008-01-05T16:10:00.001-08:00

This year John and I decided to stay home for Christmas. We were so excited to be part of both the Lott and the Beck Christmas Parties. We had family members download SKYPE and using the cameras on our computers, we were able to be right there!! In this picture Madison and Hunter are talking to us (Thanks to Angie who snapped this shot). Our family also joined in the game of BINGO that night after Brandon held the game card to the camera, and I jotted it down and played! What fun!

Our Cat Princess

2008-01-05T16:04:00.000-08:00

I realized that I haven't posted many pictures of our kitty Princess...

Christmas 2007

2008-01-05T15:45:00.001-08:00

At my school, the Principal and AP dress up as Mr. and Mrs. Claus and hand out candy canes to the kids on the last day before break! Aren't they cute!! The kids loved this!

Here is Brynley in her Christmas dress. Oh so cute!

The stash before the major dash!

Here, Brynley is enjoying her gifts. The doll house is large enough for her to play inside!!

They both liked their new towels.

Eric was really bummed when most of the presents were for Brynley. But in the end, he was happy with his toys and had a great Christmas!

Trunk or Treat

2007-10-29T10:26:00.001-07:00

We finally made it to one of our own Trunk or Treat activities!! Every year Brynley has been ill, so we haven't been able to attend. Here they are Eric as a tiger, Brynley as a Pink and White Giraffe....and no...she is not that pale, I did put make up on her!! AHHH how cute!

A Lot of Lott's

2007-09-22T13:25:00.000-07:00

While at the Lott Family Reunion Marianne, John's sister, took pictures. Yes, there are a lot of Lott's! Oh, and right after the photo, Paul and Shelly announced they were expecting!

Eric Starts School

2007-09-22T12:14:00.000-07:00

First day of preschool was actually in August, but for some odd reason (like me starting school too) I didn't get the website updated. Sara, our daycare provider, got the privelage of filling in for both mom and dad. John was at Brynley's appointment, and I of course, was at school. He has been having a great time in school and is growing more and more each day!

Soul 2 Soul Concert!!

2007-08-01T00:10:00.000-07:00

Ok, my little bragging moment....if you don't want to hear what an awesome concert Faith Hill and Tim McGraw put on tonight (last night)...then don't read...

other wise..WOW!I had such a blast! It was girls night out compliments of my babysitter Sara. We went to the Pepsi Center where there is a restaurant that is attached and had dinner before the concert. Since it is attached, we walked to the back of the concert where we handed our tickets then entered to the concert hall. The concert was awesome, and of course we were all quite jelous of how faboulous Faith Hill looked in her red one piece halter/full length gaucho pants outfit. She was saying what a hard time she was having with the altitude, and at one point looked like she would pass out. Tim Mc Graw looked great and the other ladies we drooling over him. It was absolutely amazing and I had such a great time! what a way to end the summer!!

Ready..Set..GO!! He's off!!!

2007-07-14T20:21:00.000-07:00

John decided to take the training wheels off of Eric's bike today. Boy was he ready!! Eric has been cruising around like he has been riding for years!! (Well, not really...he is a little wobbly, but never the less..) Of course there was one turn that got the best of him. After shaking it off, he was up and ready to go. Now he wants to be out riding his bike all the time. It took a lot of convincing that it was too dark for him to continue and that he needed to get in. He's so cute!

Mom's Kitchen is Finished!

2007-06-29T10:06:00.000-07:00

Here's the final look! Stainless steel appliances, granite counters, refinished cupboards, tile flooring and backsplash, and nearly three months of work! Isn't it beautiful!

Mom and Angie with the hostesses from "Good Things Utah". They were able to go down to see a taping of the show and meet the ladies.

Brynley Turns TWO

2007-06-27T11:10:00.000-07:00

For Brynley's Birthday We met Sara, the sitter, at Southlands Movies to watch Flushed Away. The kids were so good and watched the entire movie ...except when they all needed to go to the potty in the middle of the show...So I stayed with Brynley and one of the other kids who had fallen asleep while Sara marched the rest out for a potty break.

After the movie the kids enjoyed running and playing in water fountain park in front of the theatre. I loved watching the kids run and have so much fun. It reminded me of a town center in Germany. All the moms sat around the park and visited, while around us there was a small farmer's market. It was an enjoyable time.

Finally, after John got home and we had had dinner, Brynley enjoyed her Birthday Cake. Of course, so did we. Thanks to Angelia who made her delicious Rum Cake. Do I know how to deligate or what.

Summer Fun Begins!

2007-06-10T20:25:00.001-07:00

The day after school got out for me, Brynley and I headed off to Utah. While there, we visited with Cam ...and of course had to check out the fire engines!

We also spent one day at Tiff's house playing in the pool.
At first Brynley was quite timid and thought the water was pretty cold!

Then I helped her play and realize it wasn't so scary!

Finally, after playing with Madison for sometime, we enjoyed some snuggles and then fell asleep! We had a great time at Aunt Tiffani's house!

Cheyenne Mountain Zoo

2007-03-31T11:11:00.000-07:00

We had a blast exploring the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo down in Colorado Springs!! We were able to feed the Giraffes, which was sort of scary for the kids! It was a hard hike, but the kids loved it all. Eric calls it the new zoo! Here's a link to the zoo . For some reason I can't get my pictures to load.

Finally an Update!

2007-03-10T20:25:00.000-08:00

Yes, I know!! It has been a long time since my last post. Brynley is doing well. She seems to get little colds that last for a couple of weeks, then she is healthy for a week or so before her next cold. I guess this will be an ongoing thing. I decided to put the kids together in one room and turn Eric's into a play room. We purchased a bunk bed, and when Brynley is ready she'll take the bottom and Eric will go up to the top bunk. School has been very busy this month!! With state testing, report cards, parent conferences, and taking a class, I have been pretty tired!! In fact, I meant to post a picture of the kids' room, but it is in such a disarray that I am embarrassed to show the room right now. Instead I'll post a picture of the kids in their new play room. The table and chairs was a set that my Grandpa Beck gave me for Christmas when I was about Eric's age!!

My neice Madison sent me Flat Stanley. I felt bad for Stanley, John didn't tell me the letter was here so it sat on the table for a few days! Flat Stanley was very hungry when he finally was able to get out of the envelope, so I made a big breakfast!! Of course Eric and Brynley were happy to get lots to eat as well!!

I also got bored one day and decided to color my hair. The first time I used a color called "Light Golden Brown" which translated to ORANGE once it was applied to my hair. So, in a panic I called a friend who picked up the "darkest brown possible!!" So here it is...not the best photo, but it will do. I took the picture at my class the other night, which why I look SO happy!

Hospital Again

2007-01-14T20:58:00.000-08:00

Brynley has been in the hospital for the last week. After 3 days they finally diagnosed her with RSV, and with her still recovering from open heart, it is taking larger toll on her than a normal kid. Please keep her in your prayers as we continue to work on getting her stable.

Christmas Vacation

2006-12-29T15:39:00.000-08:00

At Grandma Lott's, Eric wrapped gifts for Auntie Kathleen.

Eric and Brynley met Santa at Sara's (the babysitter)house.

Brynley sporting her Christmas shirt after a diaper change. No...I don't let her run around like that all the time!!

Beck family photo.

At Tiff's, Eric received Thomas the Train dress up gear.

Brynley Comes Home

2006-12-02T09:57:00.000-08:00

We are excited to finally get Brynley home. I guess with all the nurses poking and prodding, she was pretty tired. She didn't wake up until 10:00 this morning. She is on oxygen, and two types of diaretics to keep fluid off her lungs. We are just thankful that she is home!!!

Update on Brynley

2006-11-24T16:22:00.000-08:00

Brynley continues to do well. We are now hoping for her lungs to clear of fluids that had been backing up due to the high pressures in her heart.

Brynley's Surgery

2006-11-22T19:22:00.000-08:00

Brynley was enjoying some play time with Cam and Angie before going in for surgery.

There were a lot of toys to play with, which made the time go by faster...too fast!

Finally, she was taken off the ventilator, a lot of drugs, so she was able to enjoy a nice bottle...and snuggles from Dad.

Halloween Picts

2006-11-12T14:48:00.000-08:00

Eric decided to be Spiderman, but not just any ordinary one...one with MUSCLES!!

Brynley was a pink cat... or rabbit...not sure, but she looked cute!!

Here are the kids with their sitter Sara...Brynley was anxious to get to Mommy!

Let it SNOW!!

2006-10-28T12:26:00.000-07:00

Yes, We have had our first snow storm!! Eric and the twin neighbor girls were out having a lot of fun!

One Small Step For...Brynley!!

2006-10-09T17:02:00.000-07:00

Yes it is true!! Brynley started walking, by herself, while we were at Mark and Sarah's reception up in Fort Collins. It was exciting to share it with Grandma Lott, Mark and Sarah!! Of course, she has a little bit of stage fright so we haven't caught it on film yet. Hopefully we can get it for you all to see!!

Summer Catch-Up

2006-09-02T11:27:00.000-07:00

This summer we had a lot of fun! Grandma came to see us. We played horsey, and other games too! We visited the animals at the Denver Zoo. That is when we found out the Eric doesn't made a good Mountain Goat. Tragically, Eric slipped on one of the bolders by the Mountain Goat exhibit, and bit his lip. Oh, well. At least Grandma was there for comfort.

We also spent a day at Pineview Resevoir. Eric and Madison had a great time swimming!
My friend Kelly came too. We made sure to indulge ourselves by having massages, shopping, sleeping in, going to Temple Square, and of course dinner at Chuck-A-Rama.

Back home, we spent a day at the zoo with our good friends Emily and Brian. We call them the E's and the B's (Eric, Emily, Brian, Brynley).

Our First Blog

2006-09-02T09:23:00.000-07:00

We are excited to finally join the Blog community!! Yesterday, I received good news. I had been chosen to represent my school in the school districts Digital Educator Program. I was thrilled! I was really wanting to get this position. Last year while I was home after Brynley was born, I spent a lot of time getting to know the school's web site, spent time researching other technology for the classroom, etc. So when they announced this position, I new it was the right time to further my learning and take the risk. My responsibilities will be to implement more technology in my classroom, teach a staff meeting, attend classes, write papers, etc. I am very excited for this new adventure!