The Gurrs

Old ipod pics part 2

2012-01-29T15:24:00.002-05:00

Before school started in September, we took the boys to "The Castle" to play games. we all had a lot of fun riding go-carts, bumper boats, and playing miniature golf. The best part was Peter climbing inside the windmill to retrieve a stuck golf ball.

Back to school peach pie :)
Kimball loves his little cousin Ella. he loves being silly and making her laugh!

My inspiration Joe. Joe is 71 years old the fastest speed racer I have ever met. He was a regular when I taught cycling classes at Babcock.
Poor Kimball! Back to school shots are no fun.

Old Ipod pics I forgot about :)

2012-01-29T14:19:00.010-05:00

Back in July 2011, Joey and I both had our best friends move away. Alec Davenport was Joey's best friend, and the sweetest little guy a mom could ask for as the first school friend for her son in kindergarten. My dear friend Jennifer left soon after, so Joey and I went to Alamo Cafe to drown our sorrows in fresh of the griddle, buttery tortillas.

Joey and Alec after swim team practice

This is Joey's bribe for swimming the 25 yard backstroke at a swim meet. The 2 tortuous minutes across the pool seemed to be worth it in return for some "sugar donuts." I was impressed Joey never turned over on his tummy!

Kimball thought he was going to love getting splashed by the Atlantis ride at sea World until it it all went in his face. Then he wasn't so happy

This was Joey's first ever Field Day. It was a Fiesta theme so all the games had names in Spanish :) Kimball was so happy to be able to help do tug of war. It was killing him to sit and watch all the action happen without him.

When no one was looking I snuck Kimball over to play a game

Kimball was so cute posing for me in a field of the incredible wild bluebonnets that pop up in March.

Sweet letters for Dad.

Peter's car was totaled back in April of last year. He was taking Joey to school and had to stop at a red light. He was rear-ended by a teacher and this was the result. We got more out of the insurance $ than what we paid for the car almost 7 years earlier (thanks to a great Bishop in Rawlings, Wyoming).

I love my grandpa! Here is one of his many ingenious ideas. He got some jars, screwed the lids into a board, and hung his own little "small parts" organizer. So smart.

The Little Things Matter

2012-01-19T23:03:00.003-05:00

Today I dropped off Joey at his piano lesson and Kimball and I headed off to the library for our weekly trip. On our way to the library (at 4:35), Peter called to say he was headed home a little early. I asked Peter if he could just go pick up Joey from his lesson at 5 so Kimball and I wouldn't have to rush through the library like we usually do. Well, Kimball freaked out. He wanted to go with Dad to pick up Joey. (I think he just really likes the toys at Joey's piano teachers house). Peter heard the ranting over the phone and asked to talk with Kimball. After a few minutes of Kimballs pleadings, Peter turned the car around and headed for the library so he could pick up Kimball and take him to get Joey (and I could leisurely visit the library).

After fighting some crazy traffic and taking different routes, Peter and Kimball got to the Anderson's house. When they were walking to the front door Kimball looked up and said, "Dad, you did the good thing to get me. I'm going to be your friend forever."

I am so grateful for my family, and for a husband who is such a thoughtful Dad to pick up his son even when it seems like such a silly, little thing. Sometimes the little things are the most important.

When Peter's Gone

2012-01-02T21:42:00.008-05:00

One day Kimball was watching Team Umizumi--a super cute math cartoon. It was apparently VERY intense. There was a little egg that was about to get smashed and Kimball could not handle the thought. This is his reaction on the 4th time of watching it. (He knows it will survive, but it remained that intense for him). SO cute.

The next thing was not at all cute. I don't consider myself a girly, squirmish girl. I've killed, even admired, many a critter in my lifetime. But there was something terrible that struck me with horrific fear about scorpions. The night Peter took the boys to the Father-Sons camp out I woke up in the morning and saw something out of the corner of my eye (in the tub). I looked over and realized it was a scorpion. I felt my legs turn to jello. I wanted to run screaming from the house. Luckily, it only took me a few seconds to regain at least partial control of my senses. I saw it was stuck in the tub, so I got a cup and bravely trapped it in there. I then spent the next 20 minutes in utter fear. Many people in Texas believe that scorpions always come in pairs, so if you find one in your house, you have to search until you find it's mate. So I very fearfully stood 12-18 inches away from the counters--so the mate couldn't sneak attack and kill me from under the cabinet. That was seriously one of the most frightening expereinces of my life. I stayed out of the house for the next 5 hours until Peter got home and showed me how easy those evil critters are to smash. I have now overcome a new fear! :)

When Peter did and interview we spent Saturday morning doing lots and lots of jobs so they could earn $ to go to the $ store and get a toy. They both picked out a finger skateboard and I got glow int he dark necklaces. For FHE Monday we went to the corner and got Slurpees at Valero and then jumped in the dark outside with the necklaces.

My final surprise when Peter was gone was stepping into my bedroom and feeling the strangest sensation underfoot. I looked around and saw a lizard scamper across the floor. Now compared to a scorpion, the lizard was a blessed guest. :) But still, I didn't want it in my house. I finally trapped it in my hands, and headed for the door to take it outside when the little guy chomped down on my finger. It didn't hurt too bad, it mostly scared me. I screamed--which brought two little helpers to my room. The three of us cornered him again and got him in a plastic bag so he couldn't bite me again. We got him outside and he changed from bight gecko green to brown.

cute joey

2012-01-01T21:19:00.003-05:00

Today Joey was excited to show me that the recipe for this months friend is CTR pretzels. He read me the ingredients:

1 teaspoon salt

2 1/2 - 3 cups flour (Joey read "Two, one, dash two minus three cups flour")

It still makes me smile uncontrollably when I think about it. I just love that he is a sweet, innocent, adorable boy!

Heaven

2011-12-31T13:14:00.002-05:00

I am in Heaven. It's December 31st, and it's 73 degrees!!!! The windows are open with all that Texas sunshine pouring in. I love Texas winters!!!

Cute boys

2011-12-28T21:08:00.004-05:00

A tender mercy when Peter was gone was the ability of these two little boys to play without fighting for over 30 minutes! These boys can make a fight out of nothing, but this afternoon they seemed to be so happy together. Kimball really wanted to ride Joey's bike (which would normally end in some big hysterical fighting match). Joey very kindly agreed to run next to Kimball while he rode the bike back and forth across the cul-de-sac. It made my heart have hope that one day these boys can really be friends--hopefully best-friends.

One day I went to pick up Kimball from the kids club at the gym and he had made these cute Thanksgiving turkeys. He wrote he was grateful for Mom, Dad, Kimball, Joey Gurr, and God. It was so cute!

One of the many nights Peter was gone in November (flying around for interviews for his pedo residency), I was so happy to have the boys in bed and asleep. A few minutes later I heard something coming from their room so I peeked in to see what was going on--I was ready to lay down the law and start dishing out some consequences, but when I saw how sweet they looked I just couldn't. They were snuggled together under the night-light while Joey read "David and Goliath" to Kimball. It was so cute. The flash takes away from moment, but it was so cute. I just sat on the floor and listened until the story was done. Then re-tucked them into bed and gave them one final good night kiss.

Natural Bridge Caverns State Park and Safari

2011-12-24T17:00:00.017-05:00

Since Joey had Columbus day off of school, we went with Grandma and Grandpa Taylor to drive through the animal safari. It was first for all of us and a lot of fun!

Grandma Taylor came up with the great idea to place the food right on the window ledge. That way the animals come right next to you, but you don't have to worry about loosing a finger :)

The most exciting part of the day were the zebras and ostriches. It almost felt like we were driving through a pride of lions :)

First those beady eyes peer in.

Then the begging and threatening starts.

Then they finally calm down when they get the food. They even gobbled up the feed bag.

Poor Grandpa Taylor! All he wanted to do was drive the car in peace and this ostrich wouldn't leave him alone. It must have liked his glasses.

Joey finally got to touch the tiny donkey

After the exciting car ride we got our and pet and brushed the goats

Grandpa was so brave

Exploring around the caves after the safari

One final farewell to Joey. We surprised him with 2 fun visitors for lunch.

Lots of random fun

2011-12-21T14:41:00.010-05:00

Peter finished the Tough Mudder Race and felt incredibly manly :) It was 12 miles of death defying obstacles and he did amazing at it!

We had so much fun with all our October visitors. We had Melissa, G-pa's Gurr and then Taylor, and even my good friend Jennifer and her family. It was non-stop fun.

Joey and Kimball's amazing track building skills

We had lots of fun playing with Grandma and Grandpa Gurr

Kimball trying to roll over the tree in our backyard that got knocked over in a crazy micro burst. You never know what the weather will do.

Joey helped us create a tradition of making the treat out of that month's Friend magazine during general conference. That month it was apple grins. We added a few chocolate chip cavities to our teeth just for fun :)

And how could we survive without 7-layer dip?!

We got some good reading off the crazy wind speed the night our tree blew over.

Cousin Caleb came to play the day Ella was at the hospital for her poor skin infections. The boys had fun playing and being silly.

We loved having Melissa here to play with and make mouse banana treats with.

The boys digging out all the weevils I found in a bag of flour. That was my first disgusting experience and I hope it is the last!

This summer Kimball learned how to tie his shoes all by himself. He was the proudest 4 year old ever! I am very impressed with his ability to just sit and work at one thing (without getting upset or frustrated) until he has mastered it. That attribute will be a great asset to him throughout life.

Beach Day with Melissa

2011-12-13T08:56:00.005-05:00

Our oak trees in the backyard are the perfect climbing trees.

To celebrate Melissa being here we had a BBQ Friday night and then spent Saturday at the beach. It was so fun!

Crossing over to Port Aranssas on the ferry

It was so fun looking up and seeing a huge gull catching fish right in front of you

Joey was a great water transporter

Digging the big moat

Kimball entertained himself using his toy hammer he brought and pounding in the stakes for the beach umbrella

Joey's mile long boat track

Joey's incredible first attempt at wave surfing. He did way better than Dad and Uncle Joe.

Little Ella got tuckered out

Kimball had some great beach hair!

We ended the day visiting a candy shop Sally and Joe introduced us to. I told the boys they could pick out any 5 things they wanted. I was shocked when Peter kept loading up their bags. Our roles were momentarily reversed.

Jumpoline games

2011-12-13T08:53:00.001-05:00

The boys have fun making up their own games. Aparantly the balls are 'poop balls" and you can't let them touch you. If one does it is pretty hilarious though.

Annual Kids Zoo Run

2011-12-11T22:24:00.008-05:00

The starting line

I will never wear flip flops again on kids race day. It's just not worth it

The after party is almost as exciting as the race. The boys got balloons, their faces painted a whole lunch from H.E.B., and ever got to see star wars guys.

KImball was so dissapointed he couldn't run the race again, so after about 15 minutes of him whining, Peter took him to run the race routs again. He was so happy.

We always have to end the day with a visit to the lorikeets. It's so fun to have these bright, crazy birds all over you.
Peter--the bird whisperer. I need nectar to get them to come to me, Peter just stands there. Maybe it's his ear wax. Those birds love licking in his ear. Yuck!

The boys love running the kids race at the zoo. This was their second year and they loved it even more this year. It's so fun to see them run their little hearts out. They are such great runners!

2011-12-11T22:20:00.002-05:00

Maria--from Meals on Wheels, always has some little toy for Kimball each week. One week it was some old golf tees. Kimball came straight home and started hammering the tees all over the yard. It kept him busy for quite a while.

Swimming or Basketball?

2011-12-11T22:16:00.001-05:00

It was a little too windy for Kimball one day so he decided to improvise and wear his goggle while playing basketball outside.

Medina Lake House

2011-10-23T11:03:00.007-04:00

The beginning of September we strayed a night in our friend's lake house 30 minutes away. Because of the extreme drought, the lake has receded 100's of feet. But the boys had a great time running all over the dried up lake bed. They found treasures like old shoes, tires and fishing poles that were previously at the bottom of the lake. They also loved jumping off the little rock projections. It was so fun to get away.

The next morning we went swimming and there was a LOT of mud. But for 3 boys and a dog, that doesn't matter.

Kiki learned how to really swim. She spent the first 20 minutes trying to stand up on her hind legs and slapping the top of the water with her front paws. She finally figured out how to swim using her whole body.

First Day of School

2011-10-21T18:55:00.006-04:00

The boys both had there first day of school on August 22nd. Joey did great on his first day. Much better than me. I thought I would be fine, but there is something so intimidating about leaving you little guy in a school so big with a teacher you hardly know. At least I didn't cry this year. (not on the outside at least). I just couldn't walk away, even when the teacher started handing out the papers to start working. it's like ripping your heart out and just walking away. He's loving it though and doing wonderfully! We both really like his teacher Ms. Stanton.

The boys wore their "grandma hug" shirts to school. They wanted to feel that hug from grandma Taylor.

Kimball started preschool in "the big boy school". He was so excited!!!! Beyond excited. Getting on my nerves excited. Asking me every 2 minutes the whole last month before school started if it was time to go to school.

After we dropped Joey off at school Kimball was depressed and heartbroken because he had to wait 1 whole hour before he could go to school. I didn't think he would survive the heart ache.

But we finally made it through that everlastingly long hour and Kimball was in heaven getting to school. He went straight for Mrs. Monica's trains. He loves his school!!The first day of school giant cookies turned out a little ugly this year. I tried to make a J and K and it was bad. Next year--going back to just a big old circle :) They were still so happy though.

The bathroom continues

2011-10-21T18:48:00.002-04:00

The boys loved being a part of the bathroom remodeling. They are best at demolition, but they also helped with a few finishing touches, like sealing all the rock by painting it with polyurethane.

Meals on Wheels

2011-10-19T14:16:00.004-04:00

About 2 months ago one of the coordinators for Meals on Wheels told me they were wanting to "beef up" their facebook page so she asked if I would write up a little description of my MOW experience. Then the marketing director heard about it an somehow it turned into this whole article. I was embarrassed at first, because it's not for show, but I wanted the boys to remember what they have done.

I am grateful my boys have been able to be a part of Meals on Wheels. I have seen their sweet little personalities shine as we have done it.

This summer Joey and I got to deliver by ourselves most weeks. (Peter was out of work and Kimball apparently needed a break so he stayed home and helped dad remodel the bathroom). I was always so impressed with how Joey would sit so quietly and patiently while some of the sweet widows we deliver to would just talk and talk. One day we got a new woman on our route. After a quick drop off Joey and I got back into the car and he asked me where her husband was. I told him he had passed away so she lives alone. He then asked, "Then why doesn't she want to talk to you more?"

It may seem like a simple question, but it shows so much. It shows how sweet and observant my little Joey is. He knows that the widows need a patient, listening ear. I was so impressed that a little 5 year old boy would be so kind and concerned. I think Joey has a lot of Pres. Monson in him--he's already learning to care for the widows at such a young age.

As we were driving home recently I had the thought that our MOW experience is such a great preparation for my future missionaries. They get to go into the homes of people they don't know, and then learn to love them and care for them. I am so glad they have this experience.

And Kimball has learned to love serving others. After his summer respite, he has a new excitement for meals on wheels. He LOVES bringing flowers to the people we deliver to. If we get out of the car and he spots a flower--whether it's wild or growing on an ornamental plant--he runs over, picks it, and then runs to the door with a huge grin on his face and thrusts it inside as soon as the door cracks open. It's sweet to see his 4 year old excitement. Last week after we left a house he asked, "Mom, did that make her happy when I gave her that flower?"

Oh, sweet Kimball--it made her very happy!

Happy 6 Years Joey

2011-10-16T20:24:00.004-04:00

Happy Birthday to my handsome boy. I have been so amazed at the wonderful changes in you. You have become so confident and brave and willing to try many new things. I was impressed this past summer during swim team when the coaches put you in the backstroke for 1 meet. You absolutely hate backstroke (like a lot of kids your age. It's just scary to not see where you're going). But you hopped right in the pool and did it anyway. It took you 2 minutes to swim the length and no one was left in the pool, but you kept on going. You never gave up and didn't even try to flip over on your stomach. You just kept chugging along. I was so proud of you persistence and determination to finish--even when you did not like it all!

You love to learn. You always ask great questions and you want to know the hows and whys of everything. You help me learn because sometimes I don't know the answer so I need to do a little research of my own. You did great in kindergarten and learned so much.

I am also very impressed at the way you quietly listen and observe everything around you. You have a special talent for watching and sensing how other people are feeling. I think you will be a great leader, friend, father and husband because you are so perceptive of others and you will so easily sense what they need. For example (I don't know if I already wrote about this a while ago), When the duplex we were living in in Buffalo caught fire we weren't able to live in it for 2 weeks. Luckily sweet members from our ward were on vacation and let us stay in their house. One day I lost it and just started crying (silently so you wouldn't see). But then my sweet little 2 year old Joey came up and just sat next to me and rubbed my back. If you can do that at 2, I can't wait to see how that talent develops as you grow.

You are also VERY strong willed. You like to do what you want to do. You like to be in charge. Sometimes you forget that only mom and dad are the parents--you want to be in charge of Kimball :) I can see how this will be a benefit to you. You are growing up in a very morally unsafe world. I can see how that head-strong nature will help you navigate safely through the difficulties you will face as a teenager.

I have come to learn lately just how much I need you. Last April 2011 General Conference, there was a talk that was sent straight from heaven to me: What Manner of Men and Women Ought Ye to Be? Lynn G. Robbins

"A sweet and obedient child will enroll a father or mother only in Parenting 101. If you are blessed with a child who tests your patience to the nth degree, you will be enrolled in Parenting 505. Rather than wonder what you might have done wrong in the premortal life to be so deserving, you might consider the more challenging child a blessing and opportunity to become more godlike yourself. With which child will your patience, long-suffering, and other Christlike virtues most likely be tested, developed, and refined? Could it be possible that you need this child as much as this child needs you?"

Because you are so good at sensing people and their feelings, you have this super radar and you know when I am being impatient and maybe a little selfish. At the slightest hint of anger you become very reactive. I feel like you are my little barometer. If you are having a strong negative reaction, maybe I am not being as Christ-like as I think I am. (Now sometimes you just get upset no matter how well I am behaving, but many times you help me to see ways I need to improve how I am treating the ones dearest to me). I am so grateful you are helping me be better.

Because there are many times I just don't know what to do: how to parent you; you help me rely more on my Father in Heaven. A month or so ago I went to the temple trying to figure out how to be a better parent. I got a very strong impression of your sweet, tender, and very vulnerable heart. I got a strong warning that if I didn't hold on tightly to you that I could loose you. And then the prompting came to start rocking with you at night. So 2-3 times a week you wait quietly in bed for Kimball to fall asleep. Then you sneak out and come snuggle with me. We lay there and snuggle, I ask you about your life (which is like pulling teeth at times, but you seem to be a little more talkative at night). You always want me to tell you a story, usually something that happened to me when I was a girl, and then we sit and sing primary songs. It is such a sweet, wonderful time. I'm so glad we get to have that special time together. I love you so much and I am so glad you are my son!!!!

Taylor Family Reunion in Tennessee

2011-10-12T13:55:00.019-04:00

My family all got together at Ashley and Nicks house in June. We rented the cabin next to theirs and had one of the best vacations every. It was BEAUTIFUL and everything was incredibly fun. The perfect vacation spot!

One day we hiked through Smoky Mountain national Park to a small waterfall

Reading with Grandma

Playing Dad's question game--always a treat, laugh filled night.Ashley got us some delicious smoked ribs the night we arrived. Yumm

Joey got to have the best birthday ever! We ate Alfredo noodles, chicken, broccoli and rolls at his request. It was so fun to be surrounded by family.

Joey wanted a cake covered in sprinkles

The great pop free bubble Rachel and Cohen got for Joey

This is my favorite all time picture. Proof that boys of any age are absolutely amazed by the speed of a hot wheels race car :)

Grandpa School: A little geography lesson followed by some hand pile-up slapping, and finished off with a little cousin arm wrestling.

Right behind the cabin was the perfect little boy exploring stream. The kids had endless fun every afternoon. We can't wait to go back and do it again!

Joey had a great time wandering around the river and exploring, floating things down, and catching water skeeters.

Kimball would sit for hours and search out more rocks ad haul them over to complete his dam. I was impressed at what a consistently hard worker he was. Nothing was going to stop him from making that dam.

The boys were so tired after playing in the river all afternoon

Ashley and Nick to us to another part of the river down the road a bit. We had a lot of fun playing by the water. The Big Boys were crazy/brave enough to jump in and float through some small rapids...BRRRR.
Kimball was content to just drive his car along the bank.

The 2 doggie cousins had fun in the water too.

We LOVED seeing the great rainstorms. We had perfect weather most of the time and a few afternoons the skies opened up and gave us a beautiful rain fall. It was so nice to see rain after the long drought in San Antonio.

The best day of the boys lives--getting to go on Ashley and Nicks zip line!!

Running to the barn

The next day it was the adults turn to go while the kids had a grandma and grandpa party. It was soooo much fun!!

TN 2

2011-08-14T16:58:00.006-04:00

The boys had a great time running around the deck and roasting marshmallows and lighting up sparklers!

Dollywood--seriously the best amusement park I have ever been to. They had all the best kid rides, and the most comforting environment. All the rides were run by Senior Citizens who loved their job helping little kids have the time of their life.Uncle Nick and his permanently attached side kick Joey. I think Joey would gladly trade both Peter and I for Uncle Nick :)

Ferris Wheel and Carousel--thanks Ash and Nick for helping us have such a fun day for free! And for being such great sports to all the nephews who adore you.

All the cute boys getting ready to drive a car all by themselves

This is my favorite picture of my parents. Pres and Mrs Taylor. They look like they should be on the Presidential Float in the Macy's Day Parade or something.

I'm not too sure about why i had the pinkie wave, but it was so fun to have Kimball drive me around. He was in heaven sitting in the drivers seat.

The incredible steam engine. A real working train from WWI. It was an incredible experience for all of us to see it up close and take a ride through the beautiful smokie mountains.

Joey was tall enough to be the driver of the bumper cars!! He was soooo excited and happily chased down Uncle Nick trying to smash him the while time

Kimball's 4th Birthday

2011-07-18T16:10:00.006-04:00

Kimball's giant cookie cake. It was sooo yummy!

Bear sleeping bag

Kimball and preschool teacher Mrs. Melissa. Kimball loved having preschool in her home.

Decorated house when Kimball got home from school.

Kimball was so excited for his Hot Wheels race track! Finally someone made a magnetized track and car so the car can always do the loops!

Since Kimball is obsessed with taking things apart and building, I was so excited to find this great truck that you can build and rebuild over and over. Joey had fun squeezing the wrench on his nose.

Playing with the cool new water squirter

Oh, dear Kimball, Happy Birthday! I can't believe you are already 4!!! You have grown up so fast. You continue to have such a bright, happy personality. I love to hear your deep belly luagh and am so grateful it comes so easily from you! You also continue to be one of the loudest people I know :) We could never loose you in a crowd.
You are very sweet. You love to sing. The other day we were in the pool and you jumped on a float and started kicking towards us singing at the top of your lungs in a "monster" voice, "I know that my Savior loves me." Your favorite songs are ABC and "the temple song." I love watching you in your sunbeam class during primary singing time, singing your little heart.
You have a very tender heart and love the temple. One day out of the blue, as we got back to the house from the pool you said, "Mom, can me and Joey go to the temple so we can be with Jesus?" You often ask me about the temple and if Jesus is inside. I can't wait until you're 12 and we can go together. But I hope it doesn't come too fast because I love the sweet little boy you are right now.
You also love the missionaries. You often ask me to the you the story about when you were a missionary. It is so cute! So I tell you about how Kimball grew big and strong and was such a good missionary and taught lots of people about Jesus. I know you will be an amazing missionary who will bring light to many people.
You love to be chased around the house. you love cereal for breakfast or anytime of the day. You eat constantly. Every 20 minutes you are starving again. You cannot wait for preschool to start. You ask me every day how many more days it is until you can start. You love to ride your bike and go for a run. You still have your chubby baby cheeks. I think I will cry when those go away. I love to kiss those sweet cheeks!
We love you Kimball!

Kimball's PreBirthday

2011-07-18T15:41:00.006-04:00

The Saturday before Kimball's birthday, Joey had his first big boy birthday party where family isn't invited. Kimball was heart-broken that he couldn't go. Luckily Great Grandma and Grandpa Starkey came to the rescue. Kimball had just received his birthday money in the mail and so we told him he could use it to go to Peter Piper Pizza with mom and dad while Joey was at his party. He had such a great time playing the games! Thanks Grandma and Grandpa Starkey!

Kimball got first place in the car race. I don't know who was more excited, Kimball or Peter.

After playing lots of games we went to chick fil a for a yummy lunch

Joey's School Birthday

2011-07-18T15:29:00.003-04:00

Joey's sweet teacher gave each of the kids with summer birthdays their own special day to celebrate at school. It has to be store bought, so Joey picked out a buzz light year cupcake cake. He was so excited. Kimball was ecstatic that he could go and celebrate too.

Joey's class and teacher Mrs. Erikson singing happy birthday

The sweet girl who went and got Kimball a chair to sit in

They loved those nasty cupcakes :)

Kimball was in heaven getting to be with all the big kids. They all wanted to make him laugh. Luckily he's very good at that.

2011-07-18T15:20:00.003-04:00

Why scissors should always be kept out of Kimball's reach. Apparently he was trying to get a lock of Kiki's beautiful tail fur.After loosing far too many blueberries to the backyard birds, Peter built this great net covering.

Kimball's curiosity to take things apart

CapTexTri II

2011-07-18T14:49:00.004-04:00

Arriving in Austin the day before.

All the girls doing their nails for a little team spirit

Jennifer and I just had to get the nails and the 30's picture :)

Peter, Lindsay, Lorena Lieshman (Mother of 5 beautiful daughters, in her 40's, doing her first triathlon!), Jennifer Linford

Celebrating victory at the end!

Peter wanted to try shaving his legs to see if it would shave any time off his swim. I think his legs were smoother than mine :)

I came home with these bad boys. My one goal for this triathlon was to knock off some of my transition time. I always take my sweet time in transition, which ends up adding a good amount onto my overall time. So, I was trying to be speedy this time. I was a little too speedy and didn't get my socks situated right. I could feel the stinging pain the whole run, but i wanted to keep going. I figured by the time I felt all that pain, the damage was already done, so stopping would just prolong the pain. I will now make sure my socks are always situated nicely before I run.

I am proud to say I was still able to beat Peter by 2 minutes. He'll beat me one day, so I have to enjoy it while I can :)

Peter swim, transition, bike, transition, run, overall

Lindsay's results

17:31

6:15

43:44

3:36

29:08

1:40:11

15:44

5:13

44:18

3:34

29:32

1:38:19

Little bit of nature

2011-07-18T14:34:00.003-04:00

Here's some of the great birds that started coming to our backyard to get a bit of the birdseed we put out there.

One Sunday morning on our walk we spotted this big old guy. I rhinoceros beetle. He was just about dead when we picked him up, so he only lasted a day. It was fun finding out some some facts about it.

Joey loved coming outside with me in the mornings to watch the bees getting nectar and pollen fromt he flowers. It really is an amazing thing to sit back and just watch mother nature in action. Those bees are truly amazing!

Stonegate Hill Storm Swim Team

2011-07-18T14:13:00.005-04:00

Another reason why we love our little neighborhood--the swim team. It is such a great experience to have Joey start his first sport team right here in the neighborhood. It is such a great environment. All the kids are so cheered on by everyone, and every kid gets a ribbon for their event, no matter what place they came in. It was a great intro into sports. And the best part-- Kimball and I could be right there swimming in the pool while Joey was practicing. No having to listen to the other ones sobs of why they wanted to get in there and swim too.

warming up before the first meet

he was able to stop and flash me a smile. so cute!!!

It was so cute to see him all body marked. It made it seem so official. They would mark the event, heat, and lane number on their arm.

Joey loved spending time with his best friend Alec. They had more fun coloring and playing than they did swimming.

Kimball was able to tolerate the first half with some cars and a donut

Warrior Romp Obstacle Race

2011-07-17T21:53:00.008-04:00

The beginning of may we all drove to New Braunfles for Peter to do the Warrior Romp--a grueling obstacle course race benefiting wounded warriors. It was nice for me to be a cheering spectator and watch what talented people I have in my family!

Peter did great!

The proud family watching and cheering as Dad came in 3rd place! What a tough guy!!!

The true highlight of the day for the boys--they were giving away Cheetos. What a great world we live in!

The boys and I played while Dad ran

We signed Joey and Kimball up for the kid race. The whole time we were trying to get the boys excited. Kimball was thrilled to do "the mud race" like Dad. Joey wanted nothing to do with it. At the very last minute before they started lining the kids up, Joey looked at me and said, "mom, I'm going to run, and I'm going to win this race!" I was so thrilled with his enthusiasm!

here's Joey leading the pack

Going through and around all the obstacles.

Running through the finish line in 1st place!!!

My determined little boy with his first place medal, still wheezing and not able to breath, but so proud of what he accomplished! I was just so proud of him!!! I didn't care if he came in dead last. It was just so good to see him go all out! Do something whole-heartedly! He can sometimes be very reserved. But he tried and I as so happy he got to see the fruits of all his hard work! He is one fast kiddo!

And poor Kimball, all he got was a bunch of scrapes after wiping out right after the first turn. He was fine after getting another bag of Cheetos.

The race was at a ski ranch--it's all cable skiing--no boats.

After all that exercising fun we went to celebrate the victories at IHOP--one of the boys favorite places to eat!

Since it was a special day we got them a ballon prize. Joey wanted a sea turtle and Kimball wanted a sword. Peter patiently took Kimball's attempts to decapitate him.

Cute, silly boys and lots of yummy food!

It was a wonderful family day!!!!

2011-07-17T21:25:00.006-04:00

I found this in Joey's backpack one day after school. I didn't totally understand it. but I got something about wishing and getting a kiss from Joey. All I can say is that I will be a crazy mama if some girl goes after Joey when he is a teenager. I know she is only a kindergartner, but I could feel my blood boiling. What does this little girl think she's doing. Their only 5 for crying out loud!!! There should be no talk about kissing!! Needless to say Joey and I had a little talk--he was so not wanting to, but I felt it my parental duty. :) I told him how boys and girls should not kiss until after their missions (I hope I can sell him on that one), and that kids just need to play with everyone, not just 1 person. I know I'm crazy, it just caught me so off guard that this little girl was being so forward. Oh, I'm in serious trouble for those teen years!

Here's some of the cute things Joey writes at school. They get a picture and then they are supposed to make up some sentences about it. For those of you not brushed up on 5 year old writing, I added a translation key at the bottom :) I just love seeing what his cute little mind makes up!

(The Lion is cheating. I do not like this game. I do not like this game. But I do.)

-He mixes up his b's and d's-
(I do! not want that fish in my house. The fish is too big. Why did you catch that big fish!)
More cute Joey notes.

Dad, I love you because you are handsome :)

So my poor traumatized Joey did his own psychotherapy. Saved me a few hundred bucks I guess. In the beginning of April, Peter was driving Joey to school as usual. As they were waiting to turn left, Peter heard a firetruck siren. The light turned green for the cars to turn left, but Peter and the car next to him stopped in the beginning of the intersection to let the firetruck pass. Unfortunately, the lady in a huge suburban behind him (who just happened to be a teacher at the school), wasn't really aware of what was going on and slammed full speed into the back of Peter's car. They all drove the 2 blocks to school and waited for the police. When Joey saw the police Peter said he burst into tears. I think he thought he was in trouble.
Peter's car ended up being totaled. I could tell Joey was feeling lots of emotions, but he would clam up whenever I tried to talk with him. I just tried to hold him and not talk after that. Then, over a week after this happened, he came into my room during nap time with a picture he had just drwan. It was Peter's car, the suburban smashing into it, and the fire truck. It really felt like soemthing a therapist would have him draw. We talked about it for a little bit and I think that was his way of dealing with it. poor sweet boy is fine now.

Joey's sweet note to Dad: (Dad, it is your birthday. When you get home I will give you a hug and a kiss)
The picture on the bottom Peter's birthday cake with all the candles

Joey's cute art project and his kindergarten class.

2011-06-26T21:59:00.001-04:00

Poor Peter had a lot to do around my birthday time: working all week and then giving me 2 whole weekends off while I went to do a triathlon, and the next weekend at Time Out For Women. He kept the house clean, kids entertained, made me dinner and got presents. the only thing he forgot was the cake :) I love ice cream cakes, but when he raced to the store he couldn't find one. We opted for ice cream and lots of yummy sauces and sprinkles. Thanks for a Great birthday month with lots of fun!

My mothers day surprises from the boys: A pot of basil plants, and a cake Joey decorated at school. Two yummy things. Joey knows his mom--lots of sprinkles all over the cake!

So, my little "fix-it-man" was all too quiet one day. I peeked downstairs and saw him removing the light switch cover. How did he even know how to do that?!? He just loves anything he can unscrew and put back together.

Father-Sons Campout

2011-06-05T21:14:00.006-04:00

The boys had a GREAT time camping with Dad!!!!!

All the crazy ants and the path they wore in the grass

Kimball and Caleb taking a break

playing with all the boys

drying out clothes after the stream

While the guys were all gone, I decided to do the BYU 5K with all the ladies from the ward. It was a lot of fun!

2011-06-05T13:36:00.004-04:00

Easter Sunday Kimball found a stash of wildflowers growing in some unknown location in our yard. He bought them in a few at a time until it made this beautiful little Easter bouquet.

These are a couple of Joey cute pictures that were too big to save.

IT FINALLY HAPPENED!!!!!

2011-06-05T13:23:00.002-04:00

After a very long time of coaxing, pushing, motivating Kimball to poop on the toilet, he is finally potty trained. I did everything I could think of to get him to do it. I even had a very convincing performance of his favorite stuffed puppy pooping on the toilet. (It was peanut butter and I was oh so sneaky. Kimball was amazed, but nonetheless, not desirous to do it himself).

I had finally had it. I had to pull out the threats. It was mid April--1.5 months before Kimball's' 4th birthday--and I told him that 4 year olds are big boys, and he would not be able to turn 4 and have a party until he pooped in the toilet like big boys do. It all happened at the time that Kimball's preschool teacher's daughter got lice and their whole house was infested. So Kimball didn't go to school those 2 days, and we basically stayed home all week and practiced.

I told him if he got 5 days in a row pooping all his poop in the toilet (without any accidents) he could have his birthday party and go to the hotel by the beach that the boys love to stay in. If he had a poop accident he would have to start all over again. By the end of the week all 5 squares were colored in and he had the habit of pooping in the toilet!

I was sooo happy!!! I thought I might be sending him to college with a load of diapers :)

Birthday weekend

2011-06-05T13:16:00.002-04:00

I couldn't think of any thing I wanted for my birthday, just lots of fun experiences. So my sweet hubby did lots of taking care of the boys while I went out and played. First the triathlon, and then a weekend of Time Out For Women. I had a great time and learned so much. Thanks honey for doing all the work while I went out and played!When I finally came home :) Peter made me a delicious dinner of grilled salmon and asparagus. Yummy!

I LOVE ice cream cakes, but with all his other duties, Peter couldn't easily find one this year. He improvised and made me this. It was delicious!

April Triathlon and Easter Weekend

2011-05-15T22:17:00.008-04:00

To continue my tradition of trying to do a race every April to celebrate that I just get better every year :), Jennifer Linford and I did the first ever Lake Travis triathlon near Austin. It was so much fun!!! It was very small since it was the first year and so beautiful! The swim was in Travis Lake, then we biked around the beautiful state park camping areas, and ended with the most enjoyable run ever. It was on a dirt trail through the woods surrounding the lake.We started a new tradtion since we are finally in the same age group of painting our nails the color of our swim caps. Go 30's!

We were trying to get a tough looking flexing picture (I'm not very good at those), but the background turned out even better. Do you seem him? It just proves that there are no excuses. This guy did great--so can you.

Why do they give us hot dogs after all that hard work. We're starving so we eat it, but man, isn't there something better than a hot dog?

Decorating Eggs

The boys loved dipping the eggs in and out of the colors

Less than an hour after we finished the eggs I went upstairs briefly and came to find this on the table. Kimball apparently wanted smashed Easter Eggs, not nice smooth ones.

Right before we went out in the backyard for the egg hunt, Joey came running over to me saying, "a fly is having babies on the window!" Totally confused, I followed him over and sure enough, he was right. A fly was birthing maggots on our window sill. It was one of the most strangely disgusting/fascinating things I have ever witnessed.

After sanitizing our house thoroughly, we proceeded outside to have a super fun egg hunt.

One of the best parts was the cascarones--a Mexican tradition we will adopt while here in TX, where you have painted egg shells filled with confetti. When you find them, you smash them on people's heads. It was fun!

Kiki will not let go of her toy

This Year Joey wanted to leave some carrots for the Easter Bunny. He so cute. I never would have thought of that.
My only mistake was showing him this picture with the baskets filled and the carrots still on the table. He looked confused and started asking questions. I had to come up with something quick about me putting out more carrots in case he was really hungry and these were the extras he was couldn't finish :) I can't believe I almost disclosed the truth

Invader

2011-05-15T22:09:00.002-04:00

This cute little guy snuck into our house. Luckily we caught him pretty easily. The boys had fun holding him for a sec before he scampered away.

Is there something on my face?

2011-05-15T21:57:00.004-04:00

The boys were playing in the mud and Kimball was concerned about the little specks on his arm and hand, but seemed completely oblivious to the fact that his face was covered in mud. So cute!

Randoms

2011-05-10T14:15:00.002-04:00

This is what I found 1 day after quiet time. Kimball got a little too quite and I banged his legs trying to get the door open to check on him. He didn't even stir.

Silly boys after the water fight. Peter and I brought the boys back water guns from out mini-trip

When Peter and I went to Corpus overnight we had Uncle Joe's sister Dawn babysit overnight before she went back to BYU. I got the boys a special treat--Lucky Charms, and they loved it!! Here's some pictures of Joey carefully notating the quantities of each type of marshmallow he ate. He made a column of each type of marshmallow and then wrote in the numbers after each bite--so cute.

I finally got Joey to eat ants on a log without gagging :) It's nice to have a yummy snack with a veggie.

I found a discarded bow from the build-a-bear workshop and put it on kiki's ear. She looked so cute and didn't mind it a bit.

The boys and Kiki

2011-05-09T21:26:00.003-04:00

The boys love playing with Kiki. She's such a good, patient dog. I am a little sad looking at these pictures because that cute, fluffy head is all shaved off now. Her little ears got all matted and so the groomer said she needed to be shaved. I now have a little chemo survivor (and least in looks) Her personality is still cute as ever though.

The wheelbarrow

goggles

2011-05-09T14:32:00.003-04:00

When we pulled out the goggles to go to the pool for the first time in March, Joey just couldn't get enough.

Conference weekend

It was so nice to be home during General Conference and just relax as a family and feel the Spirit. The boys really wanted to make the bunny buns recipe from the Friend, so we listened and decorated. They were pretty yummy.

Rolly Pollies are Evil--this ones for you Dad

2011-05-09T08:33:00.004-04:00

Last year one of the big downfalls of my garden was rolly pollies. I talked to other people here, and they said that rolly pollies don't really affect their gardens; or that rolly pollies only eat decaying matter, not growing plants. But I have documented evidence of their destruction.

They would eat a growing plant down to the roots. Starting with the leaves, then stalk. I would get a tomato start from the store, plant it, and the next day it would be completely gone. Sometimes I questioned my mental stability, because there was no sign whatsoever of the plant I knew I had plated only hours before.

While I was in FL I told my parents of my dilemma, and my mom said, "just google it and I'm sure you'll find something." Whata smart woman. Of course google had the answer. I read about many people suffering the exact same gardening fate I was due to those destructive rolly pollies.

The answer: Diatomaceos Earth: and safe, organic compound that kills those little buggers. And it worked after a few days of skeletal bone powder all over, my garden was thriving with no signs of invaders. Hehehe, I got them!They even gobbled up the marigold--a known insect repellent

Peter's Birthday

2011-05-08T22:31:00.004-04:00

For Peter's birthday--March 22nd--the boys gave him a bow and arrow set they had picked out at the store. They LOVED shooting arrows with Dad at the front door.

You can see how intense it was

Kimball could not uncock his arm--it was that exciting :)

Then I made Peter a strawberry/rhubarb pie for desert. It was yummy. happy birthday honey--I love you!

2011-05-08T22:11:00.003-04:00

Spring Break this year was a lot of relaxing fun. Usually I like to go and do lots of stuff, but I learned last year that spring break in San Antonio is insane!!! There are just so many kids that any where for kids is ridiculously packed. So we just hung out at home and went to the park and played in the yard. It was very nice to just have nothing to do and no where to go.

Since Peter's birthday was coming up, we wanted to surprise him, so Joey and I made him cinnamon rolls. Joey had lots of fun cutting the rolls with floss and sprinkling all the yummy stuff in the middle. He's a great helper.

Then on Friday I flew to Florida to celebrate my Grandpa Starkey's 90th birthday. It was so nice to be there with all my Taylor family and show my grandpa how much we love him. He was just beaming--pretty good for a grumpy old guy :) I love my grandpa!
While I was gone, my cute hubby created some good father-son memories and took the boys camping the backyard. The boys loved it--especially roasting marshmallows (or smarshmallows as Kimball would say).

Sprinkler time

2011-05-08T22:03:00.002-04:00

The beginning of March started to get nice and warm during the day. It was still too cold for the pool, so we pulled out the sprinkler and the kids and the dog were is heaven.

2011-05-08T21:49:00.003-04:00

One night I got to have a snuggle with this cute boy.

Joey and Kiki just couldn't resist joining in.

This is what our little garden started off as in February. You should see it now! I'm finally getting the hang of this gardening thing, even here is San Antonio where you would think it would be easy to grow a garden--it's not.

Bike Rodeo

2011-05-08T14:13:00.002-04:00

Joey's school did a bike rodeo during the big San Antonio Rodeo in February. All the kids brought their bikes and did little bike obstacles like riding a straight line, riding in a circle and maneuvering through cones. It was very cute and Joey did a great job!

Tree Trimming

2011-05-05T15:56:00.003-04:00

Since Peter and I are both pretty cheap, we didn't want to pay someone to come trim our huge oak tree and chop off a few branches. So Peter decided to risk life and limb to chop down the tree's limbs. Luckily he survived the experience with only a small leg wound from the saw. Was that really worth it? You'll need to ask Peter.

Kimball and Kiki

2011-05-04T22:30:00.003-04:00

Ewwee, slobbery kisses

They boys just love the dog. Kimball especially loves to snuggle her. Often during quite time when Kimball is supposed to be in his room, I'll find him curled up on the floor with Kiki. Two little sweeties!

new hats and washing the car

2011-05-04T22:19:00.005-04:00

Sally, Melissa and I went to Academy--a great sporting goods store here and we all got the 50 cent hat. What a great deal. Peter tried to take some candid shots. I did learn what those neck thingies are called, but I have since forgotten the name. What is it meliss?
We were very happy to have Grandma and Grandpa Gurr, aunt Melissa and Great-Grandma Froerer stay at our house for the weekend of the sealing. Apparently I was not very on top of taking pictures because this is all I got. But the boys were in heaven with all our quests. They played candy land non-stop. Thanks for bringing us a new game!

Sally and Me

Ella's Sealing

2011-05-04T22:09:00.004-04:00

At the end of February we had the privilege of being at little Ella's sealing. It was such a wonderful experience and made me so grateful for the large eternal families we have on both the Gurr and the Taylor side.

Ella was so sweet and beautiful. I'm so glad she came to join our large family!

Pizza delivery

2011-05-04T21:50:00.003-04:00

I am so behind in posting. Way back in February Joey's school had a fundraiser for the where when you order pizza part of the proceeds go to the school. Then you can tip the delivery person who is really the teacher (in advance), and all the money goes directly to the school. I guess we tipped a little too much because we got a serious show.

It was in the afternoon and the boys wanted to ride their bikes around the circle so we were outside waiting for the pizza to be delivered in some beat up old car. After a few minutes Joey and Kimball said they saw a fire truck. I peeked around the corner and saw the truck. Then as it turned toward our house the lights came on and siren started wailing. And I literally had a mini heart attack. For those who may not know, we had a house fire when we lived in Buffalo where I had to run and scoop up my two napping children and run to safety at the neighbors house, so I have a little PTSD I think. As soon as that wailing truck came close to my house I started to panic. I thought, "Oh my goodness, is there really a fire? The only one in the house is kiki and dogs can't call 911 (or can they? The dogs in Joey's pet heroes book can). Oh my gosh, oh my gosh!!!!"

After a 20 second heart/panic attack, I looked up to see Joey's kindergarten teacher, Mrs. Erikson, beaming and happily waving from the truck. "OK, there's no fire. But what is going on?!?"

I was trying to calm down my heart rate and casually talk to Joey's teacher and the firmen like this was all totally normal and everyday for us. Still totally confused about the reason for the fire truck. I quietly asked Joey if he had won some special award at school, but he just gave me that blank stare like I was speaking Chinese.

Well they handed us the pizza and took a thousand pictures, and thanked us for donating. "Oh, man they must never get anything from anybody if our tip warranted the fire truck." Anyway, I was feeling totally embarrassed at that point and still feeling some heart palpitations so I was so glad to see them leave. I was glad the boys had fun, but I will never be donating to the school again :)

Peanut Butter and Scriptures

2011-04-25T21:12:00.002-04:00

Totally unrelated topics. One day I came down stairs to find this. Sweet, little Kimball was searching through the cupboards for a snack and managed to shatter an unopened jar of peanut butter on the counter. What a tragic loss :(

For Valentine's Day we got the boys their own copy of the Book of Mormon and a scripture bag. The next day they wanted to read outside. It was so sweet!

Gotta love those sunglasses. it was a prize Joey picked from the treasure box at school. I think they actually make your vision worse.

Sea World

2011-04-24T22:27:00.003-04:00

Sea World just redid their kiddie area and it is so fun. We went early opening day and had a blast for 2 hours until all the crowds came. The highlight was the new carousel. The first ride though Kimball was so excited to hop on a horse.Joey opted for a bench seat the first go round.

Then we went on the crazy spinning around ride. (I had to have a focal point so I wouldn't loose it :)

Then the boys unleashed their energy climbing on the giant playground

Second try--Joey was so excited to get on a horse. He saw that they were tame horses and decided to give it a try. And he loved it!

rThe highlight for Kimball was the Elmo show. He was however heart-broken when we missed touching Elmo at the end

Wicked

2011-04-24T22:22:00.001-04:00

When Peter's family came out for Ell's sealing, we got to go see Wicked! It was such a fun night and a great experience getting to be with Melissa for her much anticipated first showing of the play! (It was out first time too, but Melissa has waited much longer than we have to see it).

zoo

2011-04-24T22:09:00.003-04:00

It was nice to take the boys to the zoo during our warm late February. We had a few freezing weeks, so it was nice to get back to warm weather.

After seeing the animals, the boys wanted to go to the little beach area. Since I hadn't planned on that I told them we could go, but they could only put their feet int he water and play in the sand.

We had fun burying them

Climbing on the turtle

Jumping off the turtle

crawling through the turtle

and making snow angels

But the boys decided it was just not fun to stay dry, so they sat down in the water--fully clothed. Which is why they had no clothes for the ride home.

Joey's class picture

2011-04-20T09:11:00.000-04:00

Funny Kimball

2011-04-18T22:13:00.002-04:00

Kimball was really making me laugh to day. This morning at our weekly Meals on Wheels route we went to the house of an older couple. The husband loves Kimball (as does pretty much everyone we bring food to). Kimball sometimes is a little leery of the ogling eyes, "interesting" people, and crazy spanglish.

As we got back in the car after that house where the man was very grateful, Kimball looked so sad. I asked him what was wrong and he said, "That man called me an alien and I didn't like that." Totally confused I did a quick mental search of everything that had just transpired and said, "Oh, he didn't call you an alien, he said 'thanks a million.'

Maybe I need to get his hearing checked. I think he is a little sensitive because all the old people coo at him and say what a sweet baby he is (totally out of love), and Kimball gets so mad. "I'm not a baby Mom. They called me a baby." Poor kid. He's a good sport.

Then, today we had the first day of swim lessons for the boys at our neighborhood pool. The teacher was off with another kid mid pool and when I turned by back, Kimball apparently jumped in by himself and got nervous. When I turned around, he was slipping under the water with that panicked looked on his face. Not knowing what to do I jumped in--fully clothed--and hauled him to the side of the pool. (It was not fun sitting with a soggy bum for the rest of class :))

When we got home the boys wanted me to jump on the trampoline with them, and I thought that jumping might help dry out my clothes. While we were jumping Kimball started to retell our exciting adventure. "Mom, today I was sinking in the water, and you saved me. Like I was a princess."
Apparently only princesses need to be rescued. Tomorrow I am wearing my bathing suit to swim lessons in case he wants to be a princess again :)

Sweet Lessons

2011-04-14T22:55:00.003-04:00

My boys officially fried my phone. I gave it to Joey Tuesday evening to call Dad to see when he'd be home. Apparently he was pretty close because I heard the boys tearing outside a moment later. As they rushed outside I yelled "Joey, bring me back my phone." Apparently he didn't hear me, and I was in the middle of making dinner so I forgot about it until I needed to use my phone the next morning. Joey was already off at school, but Kimball brought it to me dripping water from the ice pack I gave him the night before.

When Joey got home I told him what happened (without getting upset--which is a new step for me, a very new and necessary step :) ). I just calmly stated the facts and waited to see what he would do. Joey took off upstairs and came down with his bank and said, "Mom, you should take some money." I told him that was very sweet of him, but I will try to dry it out first and see if it works. So today, after 24 hours of drying, it still does not work. When Joey asked about it again, I told him it really was broken. He asked, "did you take my money mom?" I told him no. He said, in a very grown up kind of voice, "you should."

Again he brought me his bank--his only valuable asset--opened it up, and said, "take some." I looked at the ten dollar bill (the savings from great-grandma's birthday gift), and a few coins, and I didn't know what to do. I said, "Joey, why don't you give me what you think you should give me for my phone." He pulled out the bill, a gold dollar coin and a nickle and asked, "how much is that?" I told him it was $11 and 5 cents. Looking a little dissatisfied he pulled out some more coins and asked, "mom, is that 1,000 now?"

Oh, what a sweet boy he is! I love him. He taught me again what a good soul he has. And a reconfirmation to me that getting upset does not teach anything. These sweet kids have such a strong desire to do what is right!

sledding in UT

2011-03-12T13:39:00.002-05:00

Sweet Hearts

2011-03-04T17:03:00.003-05:00

I just love my 3 sweet boys. They are just so cute and thoughtful.. It makes Valentines Day so fun! Kimball and I did our normal delivery for Meals on Wheels and I asked Kimball if he wanted to make Valentine's for all the Grandma's and Grandpa's. This is what he madeThose sweet, little people were so excited to get a treat from such a cute boy!

Then, during quiet time in the afternoon, when I got out of the shower Joey was sitting on my bed with a huge grin on his face. He patted the pillow and said, "There's a surprise in here for you because it's Valentine's day!" I looked under and found this sweet note all taped up. "You are beautiful."
I don't think I've ever felt more beautiful in my life! Mostly because I know part of me helped make theses sweet boys, and they are sooo beautiful!

Then my sweet hubby made a surprise date for me. He got a babysitter and took me Latin Dancing and then out for cheese cake. I don't think I could have asked for a better date. I love dancing with my cute hubby! (I wish I would have taken a picture)

They make me laugh

2011-02-20T21:58:00.000-05:00

Kimball is OBSESSED with it being his birthday. He asks me almost everyday if it's his birthday. So one day I was craving Grandma Starkey's chocolate cake and frosting, so I told Kimball he could have it as his birthday cake. He was SOOO happy. We sang to both boys and they each got to blow out a candle.

Joey cracks me up. He is really good at helping me when I need some help around the house. One day I asked him if he would vacuum and I walked into the living room to see my Shamu maid busy at work. I think it made it a little harder for him to actually see the floor, but he did a great job!

Ski Trip to UT

2011-02-13T22:25:00.010-05:00

Watching the airplanes take off in Phoenix.

Getting a gumball from grandma and grandpa's giant machine. Those things are at least 15 years old I think :)

These cute San Antonio boys were so excited when they got out of the car. They just had to run over and touch the snow

Grandpa Gurr helped the boys build a snoman with the little snow that was left. It was very difficult to keep little boy legs calm enough to complete the snowman and take a picture

Snowman smashed

The boys LOVED playing in the snow. Even thought it was only 1/2 an inch. That was still exciting for these new Texas boys.

Grandpa was a great sport and pulled those boys all over the yard

Father-Son ski trip part 1. Peter and his dad went skiing in the morning and had a blast.

Father-Son ski trip part 2. Peter took Joey for his first ski trip ever. They both had an amazing time. Joey we a brave kid! I am so glad he will have those memories with his Dad. We'll definitely have to do that again!

Peter trying to take a picture while being very careful not to drop my ipod or let Joey fall off the lift :)

The bead tree. Peter's Uncle Jared met them skiing with his 5 year old daughter Catherine. He let Joey throw a bead necklace onto the tree

Grandpa did a great job of distracting Kimball while Joey and dad were skiing. Kimball really wanted to go on the mountain with them. I guess we'll have to do Father and sons next year.

The boys loved playing with all grandma and grandpa's games, especially with cousins

The boys got a good bee education from grandma. There were a few dead bees from the winter clean out.

Purple Cows--A yummy Gurr tradition. You take some homemade grape juice from Grandma's grapes in the bakyard, and then add some vanilla ice cream. Yummy!

Wingers night at Steve and Rosanna's house. It was a fun night to have all the cousins together

Kimball some how managed to pull his 8 year old cousin Megan around the basement, and Megan somehow manage to squeeze into and balance on that tiny cart. Silly kids.

The kids table

Celebrating Grandpa Gurr's 56 birthday

Joey and Kimball's sleeping bag beds. Joey LOVED that little foot dinosaur.

Adventure

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Throwing rocks into water--little boy heaven.

The boys and I love to go on "adventures" through a park by our house. Cathedral Rock park has some fun places to hike in the woods and along mostly dried up riverbeds. It has been great taking the dog along too. She LOVES it!

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For New Years Day we decided to take the boys down to the river walk for their first experience at Rainforest Cafe. The boys love seeing the river and the gondola boats. They LOVED all the cool animals at dinner time!

One of the best parts of the night was the molten lava volcano. It was really yummy!

The boys were a little scared by some of the animals. The snake was fun :)

The best was the tiger. There were children standing in this picture just a split second before the camera captured this scene. We had to coax the boys into standing in front for the picture, and just our luck, as soon as we got them settled, the tiger roared, and those boys took off.

After the tiger scare we decided to buy the boys a drink at the bar. Just kidding. I just loved these stools. One day when I develop my carpentry skills, I'll have to make something like this.

After dinner we walked across the street to the Alamo and saw the giant Christmas tree. I guess if you can't see Rockefeller center, the Alamo is a great option.

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One day during Joey's Christmas vacation, the boys wanted to have a party in their room so they got their costumes on. They wanted me to have one too so I grabbed an apron and tied it on. We then spent lots and lots of time laying on their beds and playing hot potato--and they loved every minute of it!

Dad's great express way he built with the boys