The Yantz Family

A Sweet note about a Sweet Girl

2011-11-14T17:34:00.000-08:00

One of the blessings of staying in the same place for so long is, all your kids go to the same elementary school and you get to know all the teachers really well. They become not only your children's mentor's, but dear friends as well. You become to trust these wonderful people with your most precious gifts. Even though I didn't grow up here, I have a great love for this place we call home. Over the last 10 years, I have made many dear friends with the teachers and staff at Nicholasville Elementary. Some have retired or moved on, but they will forever be remembered by our family. I am friends with several teachers on FB and one of them took the time out of her very busy life, to send me a quick message that made my night. The message was this:

I just wanted to let you know how precious your daughter was at recess today. She was tossing a football with a boy who had obvious difficulty catching and throwing. When most kids would have walked away, she stayed there and kept playing with him. She didn't seem to care what anyone thought of her playing with this boy. She made his day I am sure. Just thought you should know. It's things like that that make parents proud...even more so than an A. Have a great night :)

It's moments like this that make me proud to be a mom. Make me know without a shadow of a doubt that I was put here on Earth to mold and teach my children. At times it is really difficult and we question ourselves as to if we are doing things right. We feel guilty about things that are out of our control but wish we could change or make better.

As I struggle with my sweet Kami on a daily basis about her attitude or tone of voice, or whatever it may be, things like this little note, help me to know that she is indeed a beautiful child inside and out. Her sweet, caring, and loving heart, sees no shame in being a friend to a child that may not be with the "in crowd", or may look or act a little different than others. In fact, she takes pride in calling them her friends. Makes me have the hope that the things I teach her, really DO stick, and are molding her into a beautiful young lady.

I Love you my dear Kami and am so very proud of you today,tomorrow, and always!

Integrity: defined by Peighton

2011-08-16T07:36:00.000-07:00

It's the Integrity That Counts.
Integrity: The quality of being honest and having strong moral principles; moral uprightness; so to break it down, being honest and always doing what is right. We all know that this is a lot easier said than done. Integrity is something we should all find important and strive to achieve. It’s something you have to work towards; most aren’t born with it. So in order to achieve this so called “integrity” you have to really want it, and be willing to work for it. Honesty has always been important to me throughout my entire life but that definitely doesn’t mean I haven’t told my share of lies, everyone has. But it takes a person with strong morals to actually own up to their lies and tell the truth.

When I think of integrity, the first person that comes to mind is my great grandmother. She actually passed away three years ago this thanksgiving, and I have yet to stop thinking about her. She will forever be my role model. I have so many memories of her and in all of them I never once remember her being dishonest or doing the wrong thing. But I do have one specific memory with her that I’ll never forget. One weekend, I was staying at her house and we were going to go grocery shopping. When we got there, I noticed a raggedy old man standing by the door holding a sign that read “Will Work for Food.” I, being pretty young at the time, pointed at him and before I noticed what i was doing my grandmother knocked my hand back down by my side and told me it wasn’t polite to point. We continued into the store and proceeded to shop for groceries. As we walked throughout the store, I noticed my grandmother was particularly quiet, which was a very rare thing. She always loved talking to strangers and giving me lifelong lectures. I always thought her lectures were long and boring back then, but what I wouldn't do to have her sit me down and lecture me today. As we were checking out as I asked her if she was okay. I can still remember her exact words, “I can’t stop thinking about that man. I’m sure he’s had a rough life and if he had the chance he’d do it all over again but differently.” I didn’t understand why back then, but when we walked back out of the store she walked over to the man handed him twenty dollars and said, “Use it like you know you should,” and simply walked to the car. When I think back to it now, I have never witnessed anyone besides my great grandmother giving a homeless person twenty dollars. Most people these days say “They deserve it; they got themselves into this mess,” which could be true. But do we really know that? And even if it is true, who are we to judge them? My great grandmother never did, and I don’t plan to. Why, because I want to be like her. She was a strong-willed woman with strong morals and was always honest.

To me, my grandmother was integrity.

Working Mom

2011-04-14T07:30:00.000-07:00

I have taken on a long term subbing job at East Jessamine Middle School. I am now an official working mom. I now have a new found admiration for working moms. I am happy to have this unexpected income and opportunity BUT..........I AM EXAUSTED and MY HOUSE IS A WRECK!!

I am From...

2011-02-17T17:41:00.000-08:00

I came across this saved poem that Peighton wrote when she was in the 4th grade. (Well I say 4th, but she argues that she was in the 6th!) I copied it on to my blog so that I can print it out in my book(that I WILL print out this year!!).

I am from kids screaming, dog barking, and mom’s home cooked meals.
Shopping for fun and finding great deals

I am from macaroni and cheese
And Chinese food if you please.

I am the oldest of the four
And to think, we might have more!!!

Wiggles and giggles and lots of laughs,
And every evening our daily baths!

I am from vacations in the sun
And a family that loves to have fun.

Family reunions with uncles and aunts,
Grandma’s and Grandpa’s in polyester pants.

Goals for the girls and home runs for the boys
Cheering for each other with lots of joy.

I am from strong family values and daily prayers
Reading my scriptures and parents who care.

People might say that I have it all
I would have to agree on that call.

The theme of this poem is my family and me
We support each other that is easy to see.

There is no other place I would rather be
2 brothers, a sister , and parents who love me.

by Peighton Yantz

Few quick things I need to document

2011-01-25T19:10:00.000-08:00

So I have had this saved as a draft for a while now. Decided to publish even though it is incomplete. -I do NOT need to wear the same sweatshirt as my oldest daughter(even if it isn't the same color) it is "just embarrassing!" -This has been the coldest winter(that I can remember) since I have lived in KY.(20 yrs) Ok, so maybe I am just getting old, but ENOUGH already!! -My 12 year old 7th grader is VERY intelligent. He makes straight A's and still can maintain a social life! -My baby boy "loves me with a burning passion!" -Kami has decided at the young age of 9, that she wants to play soccer in college. -I only have 133 days until my oldest child will be 16 and driving! -After 17 years, I still know without a doubt, that I have the most AMAZING husband EVER!! -I may have "empty nest syndrome" now that my baby goes to school ALL day! -Nolan "Mom, I don't want a bun with my hotdog." Me-"You need to eat the bun because that's where all the vitamins are." Nolan-"What are the vitamins for?" Me- "to make you grow." Nolan-"I don't want to eat them then because it hurts my legs when I grow!'"

Christmas Eve 2010

2010-12-27T18:47:00.000-08:00

We were blessed this year to have beautiful white snow fall on Christmas Eve!! I just stood outside for a few minutes and enjoyed the beauty and peacefulness of it.

Our Christmas Eve tradition is to have a family dinner and then the children get to open 2 gifts a piece. They are now at the age where they know that these consist of 1. Christmas pajamas and 2. an ornament. They then put on their jammies and hang their ornament on the tree while I take pictures.

This one if our "family" ornament for 2010!

The pictures aren't really clear but this year's ornament theme let the kids know who my "favorite" was!! :)

Zoey always enjoys laying under the tree and watching the kids unwrap!!

Nolan showing off his new jammies!

Grommie made our night even more special by spending it with us! She is watching as the kids set up our new Wii game "family game night". I have to say I was really excited about playing games like, Twister, Life, Yahtzee, and Mouse Trap until I realized playing them on the Wii is NOTHING like playing in real life. I definitely prefer the live versions!! But we still had a great time playing.

The biggest hit of the night was by far the Wii Glee Karaoke that Nolan and Kami picked out for their big sister! EVERYONE took a turn and LOVED it!!

Coltin really got into it!!

We also were able to do some service during the Holidays. We have a neighbor family whose youngest child has leukemia and has been in the hospital for several weeks. Her mom stays with her and that leaves Dad and the other 3 children at home to fend for themselves. We decided to take a meal to them to lighten their load.

Chriistmas 2010

2010-12-11T17:19:00.001-08:00

Joy Love Story Holiday

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View the entire collection of cards.

Love notes

2010-11-14T16:48:00.001-08:00

Found this and had to document it for future show and tells! :)

Pumpkin carving and Patch

2010-10-27T19:44:00.000-07:00

I am really sad to think that this may be the last year that I have a child go on a Pumpkin Patch/Orchard field trip. Although, I will admit, that after going to the patch at LEAST 20 times over the past 15 years, I am quite knowledgeable of all things pumpkins!! I was actually teaching on the day that Nolan went, so Tim stepped up and went! YAY for Daddy!! I was a little worried, because of all the pictures I take all year, the orchard pics are one of my FAVS!! I wasn't sure if Tim would be able to catch the memories the way that I would! But as usual, he didn't let me down!! His pictures turned out AWESOME and I have to admit that the above picture is BETTER than anything I have ever taken!! I mean seriously??!! No editing or lighting for it and it is simply AMAZING!! Maybe I will turn the camera over to Tim from here on out.

The HUGE slide that is a must for all creatures big or small!

In the hay maze!

King(and Queen) of the Hay!!

Cool play ground!

Climbing the wall!

Another big slide!

How cool to masquerade this gas tank as an ear of corn!! Not sure if Nolan needs to go potty or if he is posing and being studly??

Which one to choose!? Tim said that Nolan was very disappointed that all the "big" pumpkins were gone!

Nolan and buddy Chandler drinking apple cider and eating cinnamon/pumpkin spice doughnut!

Always the highlight of the trip for me!!

Nolan, Chandler, and Caleb on the hayride!

His class! I thought it was really cute how the little girls are surrounding my little handsome guy!!

Unfortunately, my older kids weren't home for the carving of the pumpkins. I think it bothered me more so than them. :(

She always likes to pretend she is eating the goop inside!

So intense!!

Trying very hard to clean it all out!

GOT IT!!

I LOVE FALL and my family!!

Smart Kiddos

2010-10-20T07:18:00.001-07:00

Every year the kids take state tests in different subjects. The KCCT(Kentucky Core Contents Test) is a standards-based test, which means it measures how well students are mastering specific skills defined by each grade by the state of KY. The scores are ranked in 4 levels, novice, apprentice, proficient, and distinguished. Proficient is what the state wants every student to achieve. Distinguished is the highest level that students can achieve. Last year Kami was tested in reading and math, she earned proficient in math, and distinguished in reading!! YAY! Coltin was also tested in math and reading, and scored distinguished in BOTH!! Tim and I are so blessed to have such smart children! The schools have a nice awards ceremony and recognize the kids who earned the top two scores! Since Coltin earned Distinguished in both areas, he not only was recognized but we was also given a basket of goodies AND an ID card with his picture on it that gets him into ANY high school or middle school function/sporting events FREE!!

Kami's school also provided the students and parents a nice breakfast after the ceremony.
The awards day also happened to be "my school is a class act school" day and all the children were given the opportunity to dress "classy". Nolan took this VERY serious and was quick to put on his Sunday best!!

Kami and her BF Peyton! Peyton also scored proficient and was recognized!!

Coltin had been saving his money to purchase a PS 3 system, and Tim and I decided to contribute the last $50 he needed to buy it as a reward from us!

Coltin, Maci, and Valerie scored distinguished in all areas! These guys are also BFF!

Plain Old Kentucky Boy

2010-08-15T17:34:00.000-07:00

Coltin was given an assignment by his English teacher to write a letter to her telling a little about himself. He handed me the letter tonight and asked me if it sounded ok. Well, it was a very sweet letter that made me proud and brought tears to my eyes as well!

Dear Mrs. Roller,

Hey! I am going to start off by saying I'm really going to enjoy English this year. One of my goals for this class, is to earn all A's for the year. My name is Coltin Yantz, and this is going to be a wonderful year!

I love to play basketball. I happen to play for East. I have 1 brother and 2 sisters. My little brother Nolan, loves to mess around. He can be annoying sometimes, but mostly he is fun to play with. Nolan plays baseball. He is really good. My younger sister Kami, is very lovable. She plays soccer for a club called Commonwealth Soccer Club. She is AMAZING! My older sister Peighton, is everything you could ask for in a big sister. We do everything together! She plays soccer also. She plays for East High Varsity team. She is currently going head to head with another girl for the spot as starting goalie. Between you and me, she is going to get it. Now my parents couldn't get any better. They are 2 loving and caring parents. My dad Tim, is a nurse manager and my mom, Mariah, is a substitute teacher.

Now I hope you have learned a little about me. All I am, is a plain old Kentucky boy!!

Sincerely,

Coltin Yantz

Backtracking and trying to catch up!

2010-08-05T20:43:00.000-07:00

I have not been the best blogger/journalist for the last couple of months or so. I think that I am so overwhelmed from all the activites and pictures that I just don't know where to start. So I have decided to just backtrack a couple months and just dive in with hopes to catch up. There is no rhyme or reason to the order of the pictures, but at least I will have them in my "journal"!

Kami definitely has learned the game of soccer from her big sis! She has some mad soccer skills at such an early age. Here she was playing in the Bluegrass State games. If you look closely at this picture you can see that she left a boy on the ground in her determination to get the ball down the field! She is not intimidated in the least! Her team went undefeated!!

Nolan swings the bat around as he patiently hangs out for yet another one of his siblings sporting events!

Nolan's Yankee t-ball team celebrated the end of the season with bowling party! I can't believe he will play coach pitch next season!!
Coltin's Astros team won the season tournament! Coltin also hit his 1st out of the park home run this season. He also hit another one during the tournament!

Coltin received his awards and Nolan had to be in the pic as well!

Kami has Grommie hooked on the Nintendo mini games now!!

The kids like to help Poppa work on his boat in anticipation that he will take them fishing!! and he has!!

Kami has been really busy playing 3v3 soccer all summer. This picture is after she played 5 games in about 4 hours and her team won the silver medal!! Then we hurried back to Nicholasville to watch Coltin's baseball team win the season tournament!!

These goofy bald guys waited patiently while the girls met their teachers for the next year.

This was Mr. Moore. Kami's 3rd grade teacher. She LOVED him and learned a LOT from this special man! Her bf Peyton also LOVED him!

We had a quick but great visit with our long lost Atlanta cousins. They stopped in on their way to Chicago for a hockey camp.

The Greatest Woman Ever

2010-07-27T15:50:00.000-07:00

So it's been a while since I posted and used blogger, therefore this post is out of order and will probably only make sense to me.

I don't have a picture of the flowers actually adorning the tombstone yet, but I am hoping to make the trek soon to get some. Mom took them when she went home and placed them there.

These pictures were taken during Thanksgiving 2008. Just a year before she passed. I don't think any of realized this would be our last earthly Thanksgiving with her.

She LOVED to play games and passed on the tradition to her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren below! Noone was ever to young to start learning!

My Grandmommie has been on my mind lately. Well, she really never leaves my mind. I can see her in my children's smiles, I see her when I take in the beautiful earth with all of it's amazing "little creatures", when I stub my toe and "oh doodlebug" naturally comes out of my mouth, when I am eating popcorn, when I play the ABC game or the State/Capital game as we drive down the road, as I listen to the sacrement song and prayer at church, as I take up for the underdog and always give people the benifit of the doubt, and as I lay awake at night and wonder how many lives she has already touched where she is now. I miss her more than I could ever have imagined. I hope that I can be just half the mom, grandmother, friend, sister, missionary, and person that she is.

Mom and I have wanted to adorn her tombstone with beautiful flowers for some time now. Grandmommie LOVED flowers, especially wild ones. I can't hardly remember being in her house when there wasn't a bouquet of some type on the table. Aunt Kimmie Jo also wanted to help out with this quest so we all pulled our funds together and mom and I were able to go out and put together a beautiful bouquet. I know she is smiling down and admiring the beauty of them!

Derby Race Horse

2010-05-03T11:38:00.000-07:00

Nolan was given an assignment to bring a stick horse in for his classroom's Derby race. The instructions said it could be bought or made. Well, Tim being the artistic man that he is, was definitely up to the challenge! A dowel rod, old sock, felt, googly eyes, and some imagination can go a long way!!! I was very impressed with their creation!

The horsies nostrils! So cute!

The finished product!

Let the races begin!!

Wishing on Stars

2010-04-19T19:52:00.000-07:00

These 2 have always had fun together, but it seems to me that as of late, they have grown closer and it is so much fun to watch and listen to their conversations. Just looking at their expressions in these pictures are so much fun! Nolan being his loving self is wanting to give Kami a big ole kiss. Kami being her sweet self, is like, "I really don't know WHAT you think you are doing!!" The look obviously doesn't stop Nolan from getting his kiss!
Below is another cute little conversation that I was so blessed to hear!

Kami- "Look Nolan! It's the 1st star of the night!"

Nolan-"What does that mean?"

Kami- "That means you get to make a wish on it."

Nolan-"ok" (He ponders for just a second and then says)

"Everytime I make a wish, I wish that Jesus was alive."

Kami-"Everytime I make a wish, I wish that we could go to Disney World!"

Out of the mouth of babes come words that can warm a soul and melt a heart!

(Not so much the Disney World part!!) :)

Leftovers........

2010-03-04T09:05:00.000-08:00

I came across a friends blog the other day and instantly felt that what she was saying was ME! I could have written those exact words. In fact, for a moment, I thought maybe I had talked with her and she was writing about my life. I decided to copy and paste and add some here and there so that I will have it written down to remind me on a daily basis, that I need to prioritize my life differently. This is easier said than done, I know. It is much easier to do things that come naturally without having to mentally prepare or think about it. Therefore, this will be a challenge. But one that I am ready for. One that I have no choice but to do, as this will affect the people I love the most, the ones that are my life!

I realized something when I opened my fridge this afternoon.
This is going to sound strange, so just hang tight and go with me for a sec...
First off, let's make something clear...
I am not much of a cook.
Although substantially improved by earnest effort in recent years,
I am still definitely not much to write home about.
When I do bother, I typically make things that require little or no technical effort.
We eat a lot of stuff that requires little cooking.
And I usually, purposely, make huge amounts so that we can share
or even just eat it for several days in a row ourselves.
I also find myself keeping quick snacks that the kids can get themselves.

(Lazy... I know.)

Or we eat out for convenience and lack of time.
So today's revelation came as a bit of a surprise.
As I rummaged the shelves for something to throw together, it hit me...
Profoundly.
.
.
As it turns out,
I do not like Leftovers.
In fact, I think I might even hate them.
Aside from being a pain to store,
nothing ever tastes quite as good as when it is freshly prepared.
It's always a little too soggy.
A little wilted or a tad brown around the edges.
A bit crusty on top.
Or just a little thicker than it should be.
You know how they are.
Leftovers...
Not quite the same, but good enough, we say.
And so much easier!
Convenient.
I serve them to my family all the time!
In fact, sadly, maybe more often than not.
And I don't mean just for dinner, either!
Which brings me to my point...
How often in life am I giving those that matter most, my Leftovers?
These kids, who are my heart and soul,
often get whatever is '"Left-over" of me
whenever I think I am done with the rest of my commitments.
They get the little blob of energy that's left of me, after running around all day.
A cold slab of minimal effort, because I just want to be done already.
The crumbs that are left of my patience.
(Well, any that haven't already crumbled from dealing with other people's children.)
And if they are really lucky,
I might even top it off with the tiny little dollup of fun that I might actually have left.
But more often than they deserve,
they get the frantic, task-oriented Drill-Sargent Mom who is running short on time.
Or the exhausted, Do-It-Yourself Mom who is ready to collapse.
Even, occasionally, the grumpy, short-tempered, ornery Mom who is at my wits' end.
They get a signature on their homework slip for reading a story to me
while I made a mental grocery shopping list.
They get a "Woo-hoo" from me in the kitchen, amid the dinner preparations
when they play perfectly through their piano piece.
They get a smile and an "Mmm, hmmm" when they

show me their latest cool Wii/Xbox maneuver,
Or tell me about the awesome thing that happened at recess that day.
Neither of which, if quizzed, I could describe 30 seconds later.
They get a half-hearted high-five when they tell me their chores are done.
A two minute back tickle at bedtime,

so I can rush to a load of laundry that needs to be switched over.
How often am I half-listening?
Looking past them?
Talking at them?
Or even in the same room, but far, far away in my thoughts?
All Leftovers...
I am serving them Leftovers.
Spending the majority of myself elsewhere
and then giving the little bit that's left, to them, as if it is enough.
I'm there, always, but am I really there?
I'm going through motherhood's motions, making mental lists.
Always the lists.
Planning ahead to the next thing.
The To Do's that can never be all the way done.
You know them...
The cyclical routines that fill our days.
A song that comes to my mind

(performed by the Mormon Tabernacle Choir)

as I think of how I should prioritize my life is,
"Rise up, oh men of God,
Be done with lesser things..."

As I think of that now, I realize that this is the time.
The time for me to be done with lesser things.
The time to focus on what is most important.
Most lasting. Most eternal.
More than ever before.
Not the good things.
Or even the better things.
But the best things.
The very best things.
As you approach the center of a bullseye,
the margin for possible error becomes more and more narrow.
The degree of accuracy necessary becomes more and more pointed.
We are approaching that bullseye, my friends.
At an ever-increasing rate.
I, for one, am consciously re-committing to be done with lesser things.
To stop serving the Leftovers of myself to my family.
But instead to be fresh, ready and more present in the present.
Ready for them with a Feast.

Snow Snow Snow and a little sledding

2010-02-16T12:50:00.001-08:00

I do believe that KY had the most snow that I have ever seen fall in my 20 years here. There was 8 inches in some spots that we walked! Especially in our back yard! We were literally trudging through the snow! It felt like when I was a little girl growing up in FL and walking/trudging on the white beach sand. Only ALOT colder!! Although this has made us hermits for the past few days, we did finally take advantage of having no school and go the few blocks down the street to sled! I have to admit that I did NOT take part in the sledding, I was the official photographer and helper of putting gloves back on, pulling underarmour down, putting hats back on, listening to "I'm cold but I don't want to quit yet" and all things pertaining to sledding other than actually sledding! The kids had a great time with a few of their friends. Peighton opted out on this adventure!

I think I had a weird setting on my camera for this pic but thought it was kinda cool looking!

Kami and BFF Peyton

Nolan and Ashton

Racing???

I love how big brother has little bro in his lap. Sometimes they do pretend to love each other! ha

Here we GOOOOOOO!

Trying a sled chain for the umpteenth time!

The whole gang after 2 1/2 hours of cold hard fun!

This is the only negative about sledding! It creates MORE laundry which as we all know, is my nemisis!

A little bit of middle school basketball

2010-02-11T20:58:00.001-08:00

It is really hard to get still pictures of a boy on the basketball court, so I decided to take a little video instead. Feel free to mute the sound so you will not have to hear this poor child's mother and father yelling.(all positive things of course :)) BTW, the poor boy I am referring to is #51. Also take note of how large(as in tall) the other teams players are. We have since realized that in the state of KY, parents will hold their boys back and not let them start kindergarten, until they are 7!! This makes for a 13-14 year old playing 6th grade ball, 14-15 year old playing 7th grade ball, and full grown MEN, playing 8th grade ball. KY REALLY takes their basketball serious!!

Prayers needed for Baby B

2010-02-08T22:21:00.000-08:00

I came across this amazing, humbling, scary, loving, heart wrenching story through a friend of my cousins, blog. This little guy, Bronson, needs all the prayers we can muster up, not to mention all the support and comfort his dear mother needs as well. I find myself hugging my kiddos a little tighter and putting off the "little things" alot more lately!

http://www.stakerzxposed.blogspot.com/

"Good Things"

2010-01-19T19:49:00.000-08:00

Kami brought her composition journal home from school the other day and happened to leave it on my nightstand when she went to bed. Curious to see how much her writing has improved, I picked it up and started flipping through it. I found this and knew I had to write it down so I would always have it. This is her writing word for word.

Good Things

~I love playing soccer

~I love visiting my cousins

~I love playing with my friends

~I love school

~My favorite subject in school is Math

~I love picking people flowers like roses

~I love going to the pool because I get to see my friends and my old teacher

~I love babys

~I love playing with kids

~I always play soccer with my sister and it makes me happy

~I love visiting my Grommie because we always go crawl fishing

~I love my mom and dad

~It makes me happy when somebody helps me up when I fall down

~I love popping bubbles

~I love Spongebob

~I always play Guitar Hero

~When its my birthday it makes me feel really happy

~When I got to go to the fair I was really happy

~When I go to the beach it makes me really happy

~I like collecting really cool stuff

~I love helping people take care of babies

~When my mom babysits a kid and I get to feed its bottle to him it is really cool

~I love when my Grommie comes it makes me happy

Footed "kajamas" and "Batman" gingerbread man

2010-01-19T08:03:00.001-08:00

One of the things that Nolan wanted for Christmas was footed "kajamas". He has always LOVED these type of pajamas but as he has grown, they have became VERY hard to find in his size. Target usually has them, but this year I waited to late and his size were all sold out. Well, as many of you may know, I LOVE a challenge when it comes to finding a good deal or finding an item that is hard to find! I set out about 2 weeks before Christmas trying to find this last item for Nolan. I went everywhere from Meijers to second hand consigment stores to no avail! I couldn't find them anywhere!!!! As the days grew closer to Christmas I was getting quite anxious about not finding them. Such a little want surely had to be fulfilled for my sweet little boy. I searched the internet and almost spent WAY to much money on a pair. Finally on the Monday before Christmas, I was at the mall looking for anything Batman, and something drew my attention up the escalator to the second floor of Sears. Just as I stepped off the escalator, there was an entire bin of footed "kajamas"!!! It is so funny how something so little could bring such great joy to a mom! Not only were there 2 in a package, there was also some in Kami's size! I was able to get 4 pair for the low price of $24! That is $6 a piece!! Anyway.......the look on Nolan's face when he opened that present was worth all the stress, miles, and gas that I put into finding them! Although he is getting older and learning to read, he still insists upon calling them "kajamas". I have to say though, that none of us correct him, but instead join in with him and call them "kajamas" as well! One cold night, both Kami and Nolan wore thiers and I couldn't resist taking pictures of the little wild monkeys! My only problem now is trying to keep them clean so they can wear them literally EVERY night!

As everyone in the family knows, Nolan is a "Batman" fanatic. He truly thinks he will grow up and be Batman and help fight crime. Although he now tells me that some of the cartoons he watches are "fiction". Not sure where he picked that word up but he always uses it in the right context, so he does know what he is talking about!! LOL Anyway....he was sick quite a bit in December and missed some school. He was really bummed because he knew his class would be making gingerbread houses and gingerbread men. However, he was so happy that his teachers didn't forget about him and when he returned to school, he found this cute little gingerbread man waiting for him! I though it was so sweet that not only did they not forget about him, they made this little man exactly the way Nolan would have! I am so blessed to have such wonderful teachers that not only teach him, but also truly love and "know" him.

Making Memories with Family

2010-01-03T14:16:00.000-08:00

We had fun visiting Tim's family this year. With Tim's mom having an emergency surgery to relieve the blockage in her carotid artery on Christmas Eve morning, we really weren't sure what to expect. But we were all relieved to find out that everything went well and she is doing really well! So on Sat. we loaded up and made the trek to London. The kids always have a blast with their only cousin on Tim's side,Kailin. She is 12 and always ready to have fun! We only wish we could see her more often than once or twice a year! Tim also had fun posing for pictures with his brothers! They are to funny when they get together. Of course Tim is usuallythe instigator of all things crazy!

Scott, the oldest, Tim, and Chad, the youngest!

Kailin Ann Yantz

We just realized the she and Kami have the same initials and her mom and I didn't even do it on purpose! KAY

(Kamryn Alexis Yantz)

Tim being crazy again and his brothers trying to run from him!

All of the Yantz grandchildren

Peighton and Nana. See how great she looks just days after surgery!

We were also blessed to have a distant cousin come and visit us the last week of Christmas break. My half-Uncle Cole's son Hayden who is 13, flew in and stayed with is for a few days! The kids enjoyed playing and getting to know him better. Hopefully his brothers, Nick and Carter can come next time as well!

Here are a few pics I took of Hayden and Nolan!

Two cute boys! Notice the resemblance in their gorgeous eyes!

Being silly!

We were making home made pizza and Hayden said it was the BEST he had ever eatin!

Christmas 2009

2009-12-27T08:53:00.000-08:00

We started off the week with making Aunt Precie and Aunt Karmen's sugar cookies for F.H.E. Daddy was working so he didn't get to participate in this new Christmas tradition, hoopefully he will be able to next year! On Christmas Eve, we went to see a movie and then came home to make our infamous home-made pizza! (thanks Aunt Karmen for teaching us!) Each year we let the kids open one gift on Christmas Eve. They were soooo excited even though the older ones new it would be pajamas!! We also have a tradition of getting a new ornament each year. Daddy and I try to get each child one that represents what they have done through out the year. I think we did well!! After hanging the ornaments we made cookies for Santa and then it was time for the kids to go to bed! The kids have their own tradition of sleeping altogether in the bunk beds in the boys room.(although Peighton has sworn it over with after this year!!) I have to give the kids some credit as they did allow Tim and I to sleep until 9:00 on Christmas morning!! They had a blast opening thier gifts and around 2:00 Aunt Raina and Uncle Scott came over with more presents! Daddy had to work that night so mom and Aunt Raina and Uncle Scott set off with the kids to visit Grommie and Papa. On the way there, we pass the Benningfield Cemetery so we visited Grandmommie's grave site, shed a little tears, and took a few pictures. We miss you so much Grandmommie! Merry Christmas!!

During the sugar cookie making, Peighton had an accident! (NOT! she just got into the red food coloring!)
Kami showing off her work of art!

Of course I had to make a Batman cookie for Nolan. I think he did a great job decorating it!

Nolan and Ashton

Kami and Peyton

Nolan made some reindeer food at school and was determined to sprinkle it on the lawn on Christmas Eve!

Getting ready to open Christmas Eve presents!

Showing off their new pj's!

Peighton's ornament

Coltin's ornament

Kami's ornament

Nolan didn't want to hang his ornaments! He wanted to play with them instead!

The Family ornament!

Cheese!!!!

Delicious!

Caught in action!

Daddy was soooo excited to eat his pepperoni, sausage, banana pepper, and cheese pizza!

My annual kids on the stairs picture! They have to pose for me before they are allowed to come downstairs Christmas morning!

Zoey found a comfortable spot under the tree and watched everyone open presents!

Christmas morning!

Peighton loves New Moon!

Coltin has been needing and wanting a bag to carry his basketball shoes and clothes in. I had his name embroidered on the other side!

Yea! A scarf and hat to keep me warm!

Coltin got the PSP he asked for!

Nolan got the Batman sword he asked for!

Peighton got the video camera she asked for!

Kami got the scooter she asked for!

Aunt Raina and Uncle Scott got Coltin a game and some movies for his PSP.

Nolan LOVES the new clothes Dad and Mom got him!

Aunt Raina and Uncle Scott got Kami sapphire(her birthstone) earrings and necklace.

They gave Peighton a netbook/laptop.

Visiting Grandmommie's grave.

Sweetness

2009-12-16T19:37:00.000-08:00

Nolan and I sit waiting for his bus to come every morning by ourselves. I enjoy this time as it gives us a few quiet moments to ourselves to just talk. Our conversations usually go something like this, "Mom, can I be a car rider today?" or "Do I have to wear a big coat?" But there are the special moments that I really can see his little mind turning and he asks me such sweet and innocent questions like this:

Nolan- "Mom, do flowers go to Heaven when they die?"

Mom-"I believe they do Nolan because Heaven is such a beautiful place that I can only imagine that flowers HAVE to be there."

Nolan- "Good because Grandmommie loves flowers!"

Even though he struggles to understand the death of his Great-Grandmother(Grandmommie), I feel as though it is through him and my other children that I find peace and comfort when I am having a hard day or moment. He has also asked me if she would look the same after she came back alive to which I replied that I thought so, except that she would be perfect and healthy in every way. He then touched me again by saying, "Good, cuz I want her to play baseball with me again someday!" I am so thankful that my children had the opportunity to be with her and make many memories as I have, that will last a lifetime until we can all one day be together again and make many more!!

Kami's baptism

2009-11-11T18:13:00.000-08:00

Kamryn Alexis Yantz

Baptized by her father, Timothy Shawn Yantz

on November 7, 2009

Kami and Daddy before the baptism. They said they were "strong in faith"!
Grommie was able to come and be a part of this wonderful experience with Kami!

Joaquin really wanted to help his mommy sing and give her talk!

Kami and Haley Bowman. Haley's mom Maggie gave a wonderful little talk on Baptism. Kami has always had a special place in her heart for Sis Bowman and was so excited that she agreed to give a talk. Maggie was Kami's CTR 7 teacher.

Kami's best friend Peyton Wyatt came as well. After the baptism was over, our family decided to celebrate by going out to dinner! Kami picked Red Robin and Daddy told our waitress that this was a very special day for Kami and she brought out this little dessert for her! We all had a bite(or 2)!

Ummm, trying to get a family picture here but as we can see.......it didn't work out so well!!

Trying to catch up!

2009-11-04T07:46:00.000-08:00

It has been a while since I have updated my blog. Alot has been going on and I do take pictures of events that happen, I just can't seem to find the time to post them! Nolan lost his first tooth at 5 1/2 years of age and I think this was harder on me than his 1st day of kindergarten. I don't know why. Maybe because I knew this was my last child to lose his 1st tooth? Who knows! He was so very excited and I didn't even realize it was loose until it was time to pull it out. Of course he wouldn't let Daddy do it! Only mommy! Since this 1st tooth, he has indeed lost 2 more in about 2 weeks time! So now he has a big "window" on bottom and a smaller "window" on top!

I was trying to get a picture of the "window!

Kami and Nolan love to play together at Peighton's soccer games when they aren't being ball boy/girls!
The 2 younger kids were really the only ones who was really excited about carving pumpkins this year! Coltin and Peighton did eventually participate and carve their own, but I didn't get pics!

I was able to go with Nolan and his class on a field trip to the pumpkin patch! it was alot of fun and I am so blessed to have a husband that provides for our family and allows me to do these kind of things with our children.

Nolan with his buddy Carter. I also took Nadia, one of the little girls that I keep.

This is one of my favorite pictures! I think it captures Nolan's sweet little personality!

Karmen and her boys have came for a month visit and were able to go with us to Nolan's "community helper" parade. Nolan really wanted to be Batman but was afraid he would get in trouble if the teachers didn't think he was a community helper! So he was happy with being a nurse/doctor just like his daddy!

His teacher was dressed just like him!

Daddy also accompanied me to Kami's school for her Halloween party. Here Daddy and Nolan are sitting on the carpet waiting for instructions from her teacher!

Kami was "Hannah Montana" for the Trunk or Treat at church, Nolan was of course Batman, Nadia was a butterfly princess, Joaquin was a Power Ranger, and little Zeke was Spidey!

For trick or treating, Kami decided to be a witch! Here she is with her BFF Peyton!

I captured this awesome picture of Tim wearing Kami's hat!

Peighton and Kelsey were "Glampires"!

She wanted to turn her friend Becca into a Glampire! haha

Coltin decided he wanted to participate in Aunt Raina's annual haunted house this year. He was a zombie and I think Raina did an awesome job with his costume and face painting! The haunted house was a huge success and raised lots of money for the "Scare for a Care". All the donations went to UK's children's hospital in Trystan's name to help fight childhood cancer!

Coltin turns 11!

2009-09-30T18:14:00.000-07:00

My first born son, tender hearted young man, turned 11! He may look as though he is 13, but his Mommy knows him as her little big boy! He started middle school this year and it was quite a hard transition to say the least! He has since over come his fears and is now enjoying it! He was chosen to be an office aid during one of his 7 periods and loves it! All of his core classes are accelerated and when he brought home his midterm report, he had all A's!! I am very proud of him especially considering he is the youngest in his grade! Most of his friends turn 12 this year!

I gave Coltin the opportunity to stay home from school with me on the day of his actual birthday. Of course, he jumped at this even though I told him my day consisted of cleaning, laundry, and babysitting! As it turned out, 2 of the kids I keep didn't end up coming that day so we were able to go to Golden Corral for lunch! I had coupons so it only ended costing me $13 for myself, Coltin, Nolan, and Nadia to eat there! That is amazing considering that it is usually $9.99 for just one adult!!

Coltin is also in Boy Scouts now! He moved up from cub scouts and is very excited! He has also chosen to start conditioning with the middle school basketball team. After the 1st day, he wasn't sure he wanted to go back, but with a pep talk from Dad, he chose to give it another try and was so happy he did because it was much better the 2nd day! Tryouts for the team will be the 1st week of November so his is nervous about that!

Tim and I decided when Peighton started middle school that we wanted her to have a cell phone so that we could keep up with her a little easier. The same thing applied to Coltin so he was anxiously awaiting his phone! He picked the one he wanted but for us to get a free upgrade we had to actually wait until the day of his birthday to order it. He thought he wouldn't actually receive it until a couple of days after his birthday! With a little skill and sweet talking on Tim's part, he was able to get it that very day and we wrapped it and wow was Coltin ever surprised! I was a little skeptical about giving him a phone at such an early age(Peighton was 12 when she entered the 6th grade), but he has proven to be very responsible so far! I am so proud of Coltin and the young man he is becoming. The choices he makes and the example he is to others, makes my heart swell. Happy Birthday my son! I love you!

Gorgeous Coltin with his new prize possession!

Can't you just see the love in Peighton's face as her brother gives her a "Thank You"

kiss! I love this picture and am so happy I caught their expressions on camera!

Double Fudge Chocolate Chip Birthday cake!

This was outside at Golden Corral! Coltin, Nolan, and Nadia!

I think one of the main reasons he chose Golden Corral was because of the dessert bar!

Eating some kind of chicken that he said was the "bomb"!

Kami turns 8

2009-09-25T06:00:00.001-07:00

Kami, my beloved 3rd child, second daughter, sweet spirited, high maintenance, turned 8 on Sept. 15th. Since it was on a Tuesday, which was a school day, we made cupcakes the night before, and I took them to her at school to share with her class. I also asked her what she wanted for lunch and she chose Chinese, so I brought that as well, and had lunch with her. We had a VERY busy evening with Coltin having baseball practice, Peighton having an away soccer game, and Kami also having a soccer game so I didn't plan on even a family party. As things turned out, I was able to get a Brewsters icecream cake and meet a couple of her friends at Zaxby's after her game. Dad, Peighton, and Coltin were finally able to get there around 8:30 so we had a very quick family b-day for her! Tim starts his new "day" job on Monday so we will be planning her baptism for Oct. As luck would have it, he has worked every weekend since she has turned 8, so we just decided to put it off until he started his new job. She is very excited about this wonderful opportunity and we are so thankful that she has made this choice!

Her Birthday outfit!

At Zaxby's with a few friends!

She wanted a new bike for her birthday and picked out this really cool pink one! It is alot bigger than her old one so she has been enjoying getting used to it!

My Baby goes to Kindergarten!

2009-08-22T19:52:00.001-07:00

My youngest child has started kindergarten! I have a gamut of emotions that come along with this day in history. Sadness that my baby is indeed growing up, but joy and happiness that my Heavenly Father has givin me the blessing of being this sweet little person's mommie and the opportunity to watch him grow from infant to this wonderful stage in his earthly life. He is such an example to me and helps remind me on a daily basis that I have so much to be thankful for.

1st morning of kindergarten!
Posing for the infamous 1st day of school picture!

He found his cubby!

Playing with playdough until everyone arrives!

One of the awesome things about Nolan's class is that his best buddy Carter is also in it! Another bonus is that Mrs. Adams is his teacher and she was also Kami's kindergarten teacher! She is an amazing woman with lots of patience, love, and kindness to share! Kami came out of kindergarten reading like a 2nd grader and I give all the credit to Mrs. Adams!

A plus of having older siblings is that they pave the way for you in that all the people know you and are excited to have yet another Yantz kiddo! Mr. Rex and Ms. Mary have been in our lives for quite some time now and it makes me feel very secure knowing that they are transporting my little guy to and from school safely! (it also helps to give them brownies regularly!)

It's official...gotta move!

2009-08-16T22:02:00.000-07:00

This may seem little to the normal person....but I am so UNNORMAL when it comes to my phobia of snakes!

As many of my family and friends know........I abhor snakes! Well, Tim was out mowing the lawn(with a 3 wheeled mower i might add, but that's a whole other post!), and he comes to the back door to tell me he has a little surprise for me! He then procedes to pick up this horrid creature and tell me it was in MY back yard! We have been living here for almost 6 years and have came across many creatures.....frogs,rabbits,slugs,mice,roley poley's and the like BUT, never this vile creature! So the only solution to this problem is moving! I can't even go outside now without getting the heebee jeebies! In my own home! Outrageous! Unbelievable! I don't think my solution will pass, but I can only hope and pray that there will be no more of the disgusting,evil creatures!

Conversations with a curious 5 year old

2009-07-17T12:57:00.000-07:00

For some reason Nolan has been a very curious little fellow today. In the past 4 hours, we have had several conversations. I wanted to blog the ones that I didn't want to forget!

Nolan-"What is blood made of?"
Dad- "Your body makes blood."
Nolan-"Oh, so my body has ketchup in it??"

Nolan-"Why is pee yellow?"
Mom- "That's a good question buddy. I guess your body just makes it that way."
Nolan-"Oh, I know I know! Cuz Jesus wants it to be!"
Mom-"You are absolutely right!"

Chancey Lilah and Miss Livie

2009-07-02T19:01:00.001-07:00

This past week our family had the privilege of seeing our cousins from Utah. They came to visit their Grandmama Jacqi and Great Grandmommie Frances. Grandmama Jacqi was sweet enough to share them for a couple of days with us, and man did we have a great time! Just being around them and basking in their sweet little spirits put a smile on my face the whole time. I hadn't seen them since their mama passed away 2 1/2 years ago. I was afraid that it would be awkward or sad, but my fears quickly passed as we played games, told stories, and just hung out with each other as if we were around each other all the time! They really enjoyed playing hide and seek in the dark and catching lightning bugs! I am sad that we live so far away because they bring back so many memories of my childhood growing up with their Mama and Aunt Karmen.

I would love for the girls to have similiar memories of thier cousins when they are older! I am so greatful for Matt and Cayr for making it possible for them to visit! I can only imagine how hard it had to be emotionally and financially. What a wonderful example of selflessness and love to share them with us! We made many new memories and built relationships that will last until the next time we see each other! I love you girls!

3 beautiful, sweet, fun, loving, adorable, and wonderful, young ladies!

Chancey, Lilah, and Olivia
Chancey, my supermodel posing. One day people will pay me to have this picture!!

Lilah is beautiful inside and out!

Wow! What a cutie! Miss Olivia is a superstar!!

We ate at the infamous Culver's for lunch!

Miss Picky Princesses Lilah and Kami don't like lasagna. So after the rest of the family ate the delicious home made lasagna that Raina made, these 2 beauties ate RAMEN NOODLES!!

The whole gang being silly!

Peighton, Chancey,Coltin, Lilah, Olivia, Kami, and Nolan

Lilah, Olivia, and Kami making a pyramid!

Chancey and Kami flying high!

Miss Livie was quick to win over Mio! (Raina and Scott's very spoiled miniature

Chihuahua)

Grandmommie Jacqi and Lilah

Peighton and Miss Liv @ Culver's

Beautiful Chancey!

On the road AGAIN!?!?!?!

Happy 1st Birthday Branson!

2009-07-01T10:44:00.000-07:00

This day a year ago little Branson Jack Call came into our lives for a brief stay here on Earth. Our hearts are heavy today as we celebrate his life! Although he isn't here physically with us anymore, his spirit lives on through his amazing parents and the wonderful little missionary he is! We love and miss you dearly! HAPPY BIRTHDAY little guy! You will always be "our little all-star!"

Peighton turns 14, graduates from 8th grade, and attends Western Ky University WHEW!!

2009-06-20T15:11:00.000-07:00

ALOT has been going on in the Yantz household therefore I am way behind in my post! This is just a few of the things that has happened in the last 30 days!

Peighton turned 14 and received tickets to see the loves of her life....The Jonas Brothers!!
This was her Birthday dinner request. T-bone steak....before....

and after!!!!

(She did get a little help from mom, Aunt Shel, and Aunt Raina!)

Aunt Raina and Uncle Scott graciously hosted the party and we played corn hole,

pingpong,

backyard soccer,

and kung fu volleyball!

Peighton also received her 14 spankings!

She also was promoted from 8th grade! (I can't believe I will have a child in high school)

She picked this cute dress for the occasion and also decided to make her own fashion statement and wear purple Converse with it! Even after hearing several comments like, "you are really going to wear those?" she was determined to be her own person! I am soo proud of her!

Daddy and Peighton right after the ceremony!

Her BF since kindergarten Kelsey and Kami posing before leaving!

Another sweet friend Becca!

This little group of girls are so beautiful, sweet, and smart!

Maddie, Kensie, Becca, Kelsey, and Peighton

last but certainly not least, Peighton attended a week of intense soccer camp at Western KY University. I took this picture of her and Kensie right before I left them. This was the 1st time she had been this far from home and also the 1st time she had been gone for so long! I have to say it was hard on me but I am so proud of her and the choices she has been making! I am also glad she has 4 more years until she really goes away for college.

Natalie and Rob are having a girl!!

2009-06-07T15:42:00.000-07:00

Most of you know our good friends Natalie and Rob and their sweet little boy Branson. What some of you may not know is that they are expecting again! This time it is going to be a sweet little girl! Branson passed away due to a cord accident. I have posted a link on the blog that you can click on to learn more about this and the amazing way that this can be prevented and bring a huge peace of mind to Natalie and Rob. The link is right below the beautiful picture of Natalie, Rob, and Branson!

Sweet Nolan

2009-05-18T19:25:00.000-07:00

I saw this little questionaire while I was blog stalking awhile back and saved it to use one day for my little guy. I haven't finished asking him all the questions yet, but as I do, I plan to update it! So here goes!!! The answers are his EXACT words!

1. What is something that mommy always says to you? I love you.

2. What makes mommy happy? Being good.

3. What makes mommy sad? When I'm bad or when you smash your finger again!

4. How does mommy make you laugh? Make funny stuff. You be silly!

5. What was your mommy like as a child? Cinderella

6. How old is mommy? 14

7. How tall is mommy? Tall like really tall!

8. What is mom's favorite thing to do? cook

9. What does mommy do when your not around? get on the computer

10. If mommy becomes famous what will it be for? I don't know

11. What is mommy really good at? cooking

12. What is mommy not very good at? I don't know

13. What does mommy do for her job? cook, sub, and get me off the bus!

14. What is mommy's favorite food? salad

15. What makes you proud of mommy?

16. If mommy was a cartoon character, who would I be?

17. What do you and mommy do together?

18. How are you and mommy the same?

19. How are you and mommy different?

20. How do you know mommy loves you?

21. What does mommy like most about Daddy?

22. Where is mommy's favorite place to go?

Soccer Soccer and more Soccer

2009-05-06T20:36:00.000-07:00

Passing the ball to a teammate!

Shooting a goal!

Fast break to the goal for a score!

She's got speed and hops!!

Baseball is in full SWING!!

2009-04-28T07:58:00.000-07:00

Nolan has an awesome swing!
Nolan playing short stop and down and ready!

I snapped this picture of the ball in midair just before Coltin cranked it for a double!

The long awaited baseball season has started for the boys and they couldn't be happier! Nolan is playing tball for his 4th season and is still a Yankee! I can't determine which he likes better at this point, baseball or Batman. I am leaning more to baseball right now but this could easily change in an instant! One of the first things out of his mouth every morning is "do I have a baseball game today?" and if the answer is no, then: "do I have practice today?" He is a very organized little 5 year old. He knows at any given moment where his uniform pants, jersey, socks, belt, and hat are. This impresses me ALOT given the fact that it is just the opposite with his older siblings!! As soon as he hits the sidewalk from getting off the bus, he wants to change into his uniform. It doesn't matter that his game is 6 hours later. He loves the sport and is very good at it as well!!

Coltin opted to play for a traveling team this season. They started practicing back in late Feb or early March and their 1st tournament was scheduled for April 17-19 in London KY. As luck would have it, it was cancelled due to lack of participation from other teams. The boys were very disappointed to say the least! To make up for it their coaches found a tournament this past weekend in Frankfort that they participated in. It was a beautiful weekend and they played hard and well! This coming weekend they will be playing in Moorehead, KY.

Some of my family have mentioned that they would love to have the kids schedules so I will try to post each weeks schedule on here!

Sat May 2nd

Kami 10:15

Nolan-11:30

Peighton-3:00 in Lexington

Coltin-2:00 and 4:00 in Cincinatti

All I can say is "divide and conquer?!"

Easter Sunday

2009-04-15T20:18:00.000-07:00

Easter Sunday before church.

On Easter Sunday we were running late for church because I wanted to snap some pictures of the kids before we left. Because of this, we had to sit in the foyer while the sacrament(bread and water) was passed. As usual, it was brought out to the foyer for anyone who wanted to partake. As the bread was passed, I watched with a full heart as each of my children and husband took part in this sacred opportunity. I then realized that my older 2 kids were looking at each other with this disgusted look on their faces and then Kami was whispering something to her Daddy. As I took my bit of bread, I realized what was going on. The bread was maybe a day or so old and a little stale. I looked at Tim who had a stern look on his face and we together explained in whispered tones that it wasn't what the bread tasted like but what it symbolized. Right after we finished our little lesson, our youngest Nolan blurts out, "but it would have been better if it had butter on it!" Tim and I tried to contain our laughter at this sweet little honest remark, but we did however, have smiles on our faces for the rest of the service!

My baby turns 5!

2009-04-07T04:54:00.000-07:00

It is hard to believe that the baby of the family is now 5 years old! He has been looking forward to this day for some time now. I, on the other hand, have not! Only because it brings to reality that one, I am getting on up there in age, and two, that my baby is growing up way to fast. Much to my chagrin, he has wanted a Chucke Cheese birthday since the minute his 4th birthday party was over. I was hoping this would change throughout the year, but it did not. Sooo, at the last possible minute, I booked his party. I booked it for Friday during the day hoping that it would be less crowded! Wrong! I should have known with it being spring break that all of Fayette and Jessamine Counties would be there as well! Overall it really wasn't so bad and Mr. Nolan had a wonderful time and loved every minute of it! Aunt Raina showed her artistic skills again and made his cake. Free handed I might add! Everyone thought that Batman was just a stage and he would go on to the next obsession, but that is just not the case. He is truly obsessed and believes he was born to save the world from evil! I can only hope and pray that this is indeed true! He is one special little boy that not only loves his mommy VERY much but everyone he comes in contact with. He is quick to help out, loves to share, always thinks of others, and a deep thinker. He had won several tickets on the games at Chucke Cheese and we had already turned them in for prizes. Then his Dad hands him another 60 tickets and tells him to go pick some more prizes. He had just over heard me tell his friend Lydia that she only had 6 tickets to turn in as he skipped off with Tim to pick out more prizes. When they returned, Tim shared with me that as he stood in line with Lydia at the prize counter, he looked to be in deep thought. Then he suddenly looked up and told Lydia that she could have his tickets to add to her 6. This may not seem to big of a deal for an adult like myself, but for a little guy, this was MAJOR! I am so proud of Nolan and the little gentleman that he is becoming. He warms my heart and soul on a daily basis and I look forward to our snuggle time each night before bed. As we were lying there Friday night after all the hoopla and excitement was over, he says to me, "mom, I'm 5 now you can't pick me up any more can you?" I think he needed reassuring that he would always be my baby and I would pick him up or snuggle him for as long as he would allow me to! I am glad that he needed that reassuring because I KNOW I sure did!
Nolan with his best buds: Carter and Ben

Carter and Nolan riding the big jeep!

Haircuts and Bribes!

2009-04-03T05:55:00.000-07:00

Coltin before the "big cut"Coltin has been going through a long hair "stage" for quite some time now. What we thought would be a "stage" turned into almost 2 years!! As parents, we decided that there were alot worse things that he could be doing or wanting, so we left it up to him to make his choice about his hair. How
ever, we have threatened to cut it if he didn't keep his grades up or if he got into trouble with us. We thought that during the heat of the summers while he was playing baseball, he would choose to cut it, but nope! He has endured hot summers and many remarks both good and bad about his gorgeous locks! Well we were in conversation with some friends at lunch who mentioned that she had offered her son $10 to cut his hair, to which he had replied he would do it for $20. Tim said I would give Coltin $20 if he would cut his hair to which Coltin replied "ok, I'll take it!" Well we were quite shocked and gave him the $20 right then and there at the table so he couldn't change his mind later!! After returning to Nicholasville, we went straight to Miss Emily and told her to get her clippers and scissors ready!! I took pictures to document this great moment in time!

Miss Emily had a great time playing with his hair during the "big cut"

Here we have a "mullet"

Here we have a rat tail!

Here is the huge pile of hair from the "big cut"

and here is the finished project!! My gorgeous Coltin!!

Nolan was also in need of a haircut so we all decided that since he was turning 5 on Friday, it was time for a "big boy" hair cut for him!

Nolan before the "big boy" hair cut.

During the haircut he didn't look to sure of what Miss Emily was doing!

Nolan with his "big boy" hair cut! Love those BIG eyes! They look even bigger now!

I think Dad was the happiest of anyone!!

Our handsome boys after their "big cut"!

Decorating with vinyl

2009-03-27T08:56:00.000-07:00

I have discovered a new hobby and that is decorating with vinyl. Thanks to my good friend Angie, it is not only fun but inexpensive as well! These are the 1st two of many vinyl projects to come! Here is a link to Angie's site if interested!

www.angelassigns.com

Busy Busy Busy and did I say Busy??

2009-03-25T11:02:00.000-07:00

The kids have started there spring sports so we are always running all over the place trying to get everyone where they need to be! Peighton is on the East Jessamine Middle School soccer team and is the starting Keeper(goalie). They have played 3 games so far and are undefeated to date. She has only been scored on 1 time and the other two games were a shut out!!! We are very proud of all the hard work and many practice hours she puts into being a successful soccer player. Coltin is on an 11 year old traveling baseball team. This will prove to be a challenge for our family once the tournaments start but this is something Coltin really wants to do so we will make it work somehow! Nolan has also started practicing T-ball for the Yankees again. Kami's soccer practices have started as well. The games will start after spring break. I think I am going to try and clone myself so that I won't miss anything. Peighton showing some skill and attacking the ball!!

Coach Wiser warming up Peighton before the game!

Peighton still warming up!

The Celtics Cheerleaders

Kami's cheerleaded for Coltin's basketball team this year and at the end of the season, they had a little dance/cheer competition. I thought they did well considering the ages of the girls. They did have lots of fun though and that is the most important thing! I also was shocked at the little attitude that Kami showed during the performance!

Sweet words

2009-03-22T20:26:00.000-07:00

This is a conversation that I was blessed to overhear!

Daddy-"Nolan, why are you so rotten?"
Nolan- "Cause I'm rotten."
Daddy-"Who made you rotten?"
Nolan- "me!"
Daddy-"No, who made you rotten?"
Nolan-"Jesus!"

Simple Things

2009-03-19T20:10:00.000-07:00

Even though today was our anniversary, it was actually just another day in the life. I am not saying this in a negative way at all but rather just stating it like it is. I would not change it for anything. After a very long day, I finally came home and found this simple little note and "gift" that my precious Kami took the time to make. It is the little and simple things like this that makes it all worthwhile!

Happy Anniversary to us!!

2009-03-15T19:35:00.000-07:00

On Thursday March 19, Tim and I will have been married for 15 years! WOW it doesn't really seem that long but then again I can't really remember life without him! He is the most perfect husband in every way. I could go on and on about him but I will just stop at that! We have been contemplating for a while on what to do for our 15th annivesary. At this point in our lives, we are not financially able to take a trip to Paris or cruise the ocean blue. However, we did decide to get each other something that we needed and wanted. My need and want was a Bosch mixer! I have been wanting this and researching mixers for what seems like months! When my dear friend Natalie gave me the starter for a 30 year old sourdough bread this week, I really had to get down to making a decision. I was watching a used one on Ebay and the auction went up to $50 less than what a new one would be! Tim just made an executive decision and told me to just buy the new one! I am sooooo very excited! Now I will be watching every day for the FedEx truck!!

Tim's need and want was a new grill! Last week when the weather was nice, Tim picked up a tank of propane so we could grill out for the 1st time this year. To his dismay, when he hooked up the gas and tried to light it, it didn't work. The burners were corroded and the grill was just weathered and a big mess! I have to say that the grill has definitely done its part for out family! It has weathered many years at out home! Sooooo, Tim went out and bought a new one! He has already used it twice and given it a name! "Steely" is now a part of our family!

So after 15 awesome years of marriage, 4 beautiful children, and countless blessings, we celebrate our love and eternal companionship!

Answered Prayers

2009-02-25T19:15:00.001-08:00

Trystan and Peighton at Coltin's basketball game!

Over the last couple of weeks, Trystan has not been doing so well. The chemo that he receives is like a powerful poison. It is somewhat of a contradiction or catch 22. Yes, it is killing off any cancer cells that may be lying in wait ready to attack his little body once again, but it also makes his little body become very sick. He has several different kinds of chemo and each one has different side effects. The one that only takes 5 days in the hospital, makes his blood count drop, therefore making it necessary for blood transfusions, and platelets. Usually when he recieves a blood transfusion, he gets to return home the same day. However, about 2 weeks ago he needed one and afterwards he started running a fever and had to be admitted. This hospital stay was the longest he had had to stay for just a transfusion. For some reason(unbeknowst to the Docs) his counts were not coming up and his fever was staying. For this reason, we asked several family members and friends to say extra prayers. He was finally released late Friday night after a 10 day stay, with the instructions to not travel very far from home as he still was running a low grade fever. If the fever was to exceed 100.5. he would have to return to the hospital. Sadly our home has been full of sick germs for the last 3 weeks so he wasn't able to come over immediately. On Monday however, all of the kiddos were feeling better so he came over to hang out! He even got to go to Coltin's basketball game that night! He decided to spend the night with us so that Uncle Tim could draw his blood from his port so Rashel could take it to the clinic to see how his counts were. Home Health used to come and do this but we found out that the insurance company will either pay for Home Health or Physical Therapy. Right now he really needs physical therapy so that he can learn to walk on his leg again so we decided to let Tim do the draws and then physically take the blood to the lab ourselves. Anyway...so Rashel and Trystan take off to UK this morning. While there, they hear some good news and some bad news. His counts were down yet again so he would be getting another transfusion today, BUT the oncologists had decided that the methotrexate chemo that he is given, is doing more harm than good and he will no longer be getting it! This means that he only has about 2 weeks left of chemo instead of 2 or 3 months! He was so excited that he called me and was so worked up that I could hardly understand what he was saying! I KNOW without a shadow of a doubt that our prayers were answered and that the Doctors decision to stop that treatment was divine. This has been such a trial for our family and especially my dear sister Rashel. She is such an amazing person to be able to handle everything that has been thrown her way and still stay strong. Her love for her boys shines through in everything that she does. Her selfless acts of kindness and love are simply amazing. We are so blessed and thankful for the many thoughts, kind deeds, acts of service, and prayers that are sent Trystan's way. Without these, this trial would be so much harder.

Little Boys Hangin Out!

2009-02-17T09:51:00.000-08:00

I have the wonderful pleasure of keeping two little boys during the week. Benjamin will turn 6 this week and Jonathon turned 6, two weeks ago They get off the bus at noon with Nolan and I am immediately out-numbered. This doesn't intimidate me in the least though as I can join in with them and be a big kid as well!! During the last couple of months, it has been really cold so the boys come home with hungry bellies' and then onto some super hero dress up or hide and go seek in the house. Well, last week the weather warmed up a little, so the boys were excited to get to play outside. They weren't so "hungry" after all! The trampoline usually keeps their attention for the most part, so I just occasionally go out back and check on them. I have to admit that I probably got a little pre-occupied with something and didn't check on them as soon as I should have. My philosophy after 4 children is,"unless there is alot of screaming or blood, they fend for themself!"

Anyway.....I hadn't heard any of the usual hoots or hollers for a while, so I opened the back door to find the 3 monkeys "walking the fence!" At first I just kinda stood there awestruck at the fact that they found this something that would be ok for them to do. When the initial shock and my reaction to scream, "get down this minute" passed, I had to laugh and then of course run and get my camera! This activity kept their attention for quite some time. I was only needed at the end of the "walk" to help them get down! It amazes me what simple things that little boys can come up with to keep themselves entertained! Of course it also helps to know that Dad is a nurse and mom deals well with blood and broken bones! So far, we have been able to avoid any major mishaps, but I am sure that will be short lived, because well, they are BOYS, right?

My dear Peighton

2009-02-08T16:33:00.000-08:00

Peighton had been feeling a little under the weather on Wed. and Thurs. so I decided to take her to the doctor on Friday. Coltin and Keegan were in a really cute play on Friday at school, so Rashel found someone to stay with Trystan at the hospital so she could come and watch them. Afterwards, she took Coltin, Kami, Nolan, and the kids I babysit, Jacob, Ben, and Jonathon, back to my house so I could take Peighton to her 3:30 appointment. I thought she might have an urinary tract infection as she was complaining of peeing alot and some discomfort. Well, on the drive into Lexington we were talking mom and daughter talk! I cherish these talks as they are few and far between. We seldom have just Peighton and Mom time alone. Anyway, she asks me the question, "where did they get pee out of the word urine?" "Hmmmm...good question," I replied. I suggested we ask Dr. Feese and see what she had to say. Me and the good doctor are on a first name basis as we have been going to see her many many times a year for almost 14 years now! So I said, "Robin, Peighton has a very good question for you." and then Peighton went on to ask her. Dr. Feese's reply was, "I don't know!" We decided to do a little research and get back with her the next time we came in! On the way home, Peighton was so impressed with herself that she had a legit question that had not only stumped her dear old ma, but also the good Dr. Feese! She came home and we "googled" it and came up with somewhat of a disappointing answer. It is simply from the first letter of the word piss. Piss is not considered polite today, but it was in fairly wide use up to the 19th century. Pee was coined as a euphemism for piss and the verb form of pee dates in the written records from 1788; it probably existed some time before then but simply did not get written down. Piss is quite a bit older, dating in writing from 1290. It is thought to be onomatopoeic (imitative in sound) of the act of urinating. English got piss from Old French, which also gave it to other Germanic languages. Those public urinals that ornament the streets of French cities are called pissoirs.

Well, now that we have that all cleared up, Peighton has challenged herself to continue to come up with questions that I or her Dad, do not know the anwers to. This should be quite simple, but I will not let her know that!

On another note about my oldest child Peighton:

Trystan was realeased from the hospital on Saturday afternoon and Rashel was taking him to Campbellsville to visit Grommie and Grandmommie. She had told Nolan that he was welcome to go as long as mom and dad said ok. Of course when the other's heard about it, they to wanted to go. Rashel being an awesome aunt, said of course they could go as long as I would lend her my van. I said, "Here are the keys and the tank is full!" ha! Peighton really wanted to go but had 2 big projects due on Monday, so she stayed home with us. Tim and I decided to go out for dinner and asked Peighton if she would like to go with us. Her reply was, "I would like to go, but you and daddy never get to go out alone much, so I will stay home." I felt a little guilty leaving her home alone but knew she would be fine. Tim and I went to dinner and then decided to rent a movie and take it home to watch it with Peighton. We rented Fireproof and snuggled up in our big king size bed and watched it. It was really fun even though she ended up falling asleep half way through! I suppose I am so used to being woke up early by my dear children, that I forgot to set the alarm for church. When I was finally startled awake by something(I think it was Tim's snoring), it was almost 11:00!! Needless to say, we missed church. The 3 of us spent the day relaxing and doing small odds and ends around the house together. Baked an orange juice cake, finished up Peighton's project, and wondered what the kids may be doing at Grommie's. It was really funny because the doorbell rang twice with kids looking for Coltin or Kami. When I replied that the were not here, they still wanted to come in and hang out! Rashel made the comment that even though she took the kids away to give us a break, we still ended up with a house full! I wouldn't have it any other way and I am very thankful that my children's friends feel safe, secure, and welcomed in our home. When we were alone again, Peighton said,"I am glad that I am not an only child. I mean it was nice for the 1st little bit to have peace and quiet and you guys all to myself, but now I just miss them. Even though they DO get on my nerves alot!" Well this statement made my heart sing! Somewhere deep inside, I always have this fear of not giving enough quality time to each of my children. When she made that statement, it took all that fear away. I am so thankful that I have been blessed with such amazing children who love each other. What a wonderful feeling it is to know that my children care about each other!

Photo Tag

2009-02-08T15:19:00.000-08:00

Joanna tagged me! These are the rules...

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

2. Select the 4th picture in the folder

3. Explain the picture

4. Tag 4 people to do the same

5. No cheating (cropping, editing, etc)

Well, I have MANY pictures stored so I was quite anxious to see what it may be! My pictures go back about 3 or so years, so I really had NO idea until I looked! So.....this is Coltin at a friend Taylor's 50's birthday party. I think he was 8 but not sure! I slicked and spiked his hair and rolled the cuffs of his jeans and white t-shirt up! He was quite the "Danny".

So I tag...

1. Karmen

2. Tricia

3. Jackie

4. Sierra

Building snowmen!

2009-02-06T05:15:00.000-08:00

I decided to let the kids try there hand at building snowmen! The fun thing about these snowmen were that after all the hard work of making it, they coud EAT it!! The ingredients included: angel food cake(for the snow), cool whip(for more snow), big and little marshmallows, pretzel sticks, melted chocolate, kisses, fruit roll ups(for the scarf) and mini m&m's! I think they also enjoyed eating while they worked! It was really fun and we were happy that Trystan was also able to be with us and enjoy it! He really doesn't like having his picture taken right now and kept making silly faces. I told him that I was going to post them anyway so....

I always look forward to seeing what Peighton's artistic mind comes up with!

Kami thought the m&m's would make awesome rocks in the snow!

Coltin decided his was going to be a "dead" snowman!

Peighton and Trystan working on their masterpieces, or are they eating it?????

With a little persuading, even Dad made one!

Nolan was sad because his snowman kept falling over!

Mom and Dad's masterpieces!

Kajamas

2009-02-03T06:08:00.000-08:00

For the last couple of months, Nolan has been calling pajamas, "kajamas". I haven't quite figured that one out yet. I thought maybe it was because I can be known to speak quite quickly, and that was what he was hearing as I said it. I don't think that is the reason now as I have been trying to speak more slowly for fear of making my children's speech unrecognizable! The southern draw is already there and they do NOT need any other issue to hinder them!! Anyway....he loves to wear his "kajamas" and has about 4 special pair that are his favs! 3 of them being Batman pajamas and the other one is a very soft and warm fleece pair with polar bear print all over. Nolan and I have made a deal that if he will accept what I have picked out for him to wear to church and school, that he can wear whatever he wants at most any other times. His #1 pick of attire wether it be just around the house, going to the grocery, picking up kids from school, or siblings basketball/soccer games, is his "kajamas". I have to admit that when I only had 1 or 2 children and would see other moms out with there kids wearing pajamas or costumes, I would think to myself "never in a million years!" Well, needless to say, I have been humbled by my little Nolan. There are more important things in life than what your little guy is wearing! His happiness and carefree spirit is such a joy to be around! If it makes him happy, I am happy!

I was given a gymbuck by a friend who wasn't going to use it, and since it was the last day before it expired, I got on-line to make a pruchase with it. I am quite obsessed with there clothing and was thrilled to have a 50% off coupon! While browsing on the site, I came across the same polar bear pajamas that Nolan has in a man's 2XL! Well, my first thought was, "will Tim wear these?" My next thought was,"well, for $10 he will!" They were originally around $50! When they arrived at the house on Saturday, Tim was working but Nolan couldn't wait to see them. He carried his and Daddy's around all day and was so excited to show Tim when he got home that night. Tim put them on for Nolan but said he couldn't sleep in them. They made a deal to wear their "kajamas" after church to watch the superbowl in! After church Nolan made a b-line srtaight for his! He was a little sad that Dad had to go back to church for a meeting and couldn't put his on right away. As soon as Dad came home and put them on, Nolan's little face was beaming! They started out watching the ball game but that didn't last very long. Before I knew it, I had 2 polar bear wearing kids running around the house playing hide and go seek! I am so blessed to have such an amazing husband and father for my children. He is truely my knight in shining armor and then some!

Victorious

2009-01-30T08:01:00.000-08:00

During this never ending winter storm/break from school, the kids have gone sledding several times! Each time they try and go further than the last one went. Coltin was winning, as he went the farthest. His #1 buddy Cory couldn't seem to figure out why he wasn't going as far as him. So instead of trying to beat each other, they decided to come together as a team! I think the song they were singing sums it all up for me! It seems like I am always "living on a prayer". I am so thankful for my Heavenly Father that hears each of those prayers whether big or small. I only hope and pray(yet again) that I will have the patience and guidance of the Holy Ghost, so that I will be able to recognize the answers when they are given.

The boys were indeed "Victorious" as they passed all the other previous markers! I pray that I too can remember to work together as a team with my family so that I will always be "Victorious"!

Awards

2009-01-25T09:43:00.000-08:00

I have been trying to figure out how to keep all of the children's school work, awards, projects, etc., without creating more of a cluttered home. I am the kind of person who holds on to almost everything, especially when it comes to my children. Well, my folders, filing cabinets, and cubby spaces for the kids "school stuff" is overwhelmingly full. So, my project at hand is to take pictures of everything and store it electronically. Tim purchased me an e-book for Christmas which is basically a little external hard drive that I can leave on my desk or take any where if need be. I have since copied almost everything on my computer to it. This includes the thousands of pictures I have taken over the years as well as very important papers,emails, and etc. It will be one of the top things to grab if my house ever burns down! So, the latest awards the children have received are going down in my journal(blog) so that I can look back later in life and still feel as proud then, as I do now! The picture above has the awards the children received this nine weeks in school. In the Elementary where Kami and Coltin attend, they have a "HOPE" assembly every nine weeks. The teacher's choose a child out of there class to receive different awards and I was very proud that both Coltin and Kami received the "Leadership" award. At Nolan's school, The Jessamine Early Learning Village, the teacher's can "catch" a friend doing something good. This can be for trying your best, playing nicely, expressing yourself, safe hands and feet, etc. Nolan has been "caught" several times this year already. He was even "caught" on his first day of school! Each time he receives an apple necklace to wear home. I have started hanging them here and there to let him know how proud we are of him.

I can't figure out why this picture keeps loading sideways but anyway....here are Peighton's awards for Obtaining Distinguished Score's in Math, Reading, and Practical Living. These scores are the highest that can be attained on the statewide CATS (Commonwealth Accountability Testing System) testing. I think when I was in school these were called C.T.B.S.(Comprehensive Test of Basic Skills) test! As an award for her scores, she received an i.d. card that gets her in any school function FREE!

Coltin received All A's this nine weeks and also the Leadership Award!

The Leadership award is for

"demonstrating strength of character in pursuing positive relationships with teachers and fellow-students and in facing the challenges of academic work"

Kami also received the Leadership award as well as Exemplary Attendance for this nine weeks.

There is a FUNGUS AMONG us!

2009-01-21T11:16:00.000-08:00

So Coltin has had this issue with his pointer finger for quite some time now. I asked a good friend who has several children, if she had ever seen anything like it, and to my dismay, she thought that it may be psoriasis. After some research on the Internet, I was praying that it was not. We took him in on Monday and Dr. Feese diagnosed it as a fungus! So we now have "a fungus among us!" He has a medication to take for about a month, and if it still isn't any better, than she will refer us to a dermatologist. The good thing is that it is not contagious!

HorseGirls?!?!?

2009-01-13T04:41:00.000-08:00

So I had another one of those "mommy moments" when one of my children ask me a question that I really don't have an answer to. Maybe it is because I am lacking the knowledge in that category or sometimes it is because I haven't yet figured out the way I will handle that question. Whatever the case maybe, I seem to have these "mommy moments" when Tim is nowhere around to come to my rescue with his answer! This morning as the kids and I were rushing around to eat, get shoes on, get coats and backpacks on, etc., a random question came up, "mommy, why aren't they called horsegirls?" At first I thought maybe Kami was reading something and needed some clarification on a word. However, she was in deep thought, quietly looking at me, and waiting for an answer. I said, "what?" She replied, "you know, cowgirls, why aren't they called horsegirls?" Well, I was quite amazed at her thought process and wondered why I had never thought of that question. Indeed, it would make sense to call them horsegirls. I told kami that she had asked a very good question and that she should call her Aunt Kimmie Jo(the horse lady of our family) and ask her! Maybe I will "google" the question why she is at school today and see what kind of answer I can find for my deep thinker Kami!

Green Eyed Beans!

2009-01-01T16:24:00.001-08:00

Ok, so I know I have already posted today, but again one of my sweet little children have made me laugh and realize, yet again, what a blessing they are to me! So Tim is working today but I told the children that we sould still cook a New Year's dinner and keep a plate warm for him. I guess Kami has forgotten the traditional New Year's Day dinner of black-eye peas and mashed potatoes. I must have mentioned it earlier in the day, because Kami came running up to me right before dinner and said "ok mom, what's this you are gonna make me eat, GREEN EYED BEANS!" I thought I would pee my pants then and there! I was so tickled and she just kept looking at me with this disgusted look on her face and eventually said, "what is so funny?" I love my life!!

I've Been Snowmanned??

2009-01-01T12:15:00.000-08:00

This is the first I saw while using the bathroom!!

This is Kami's Pigtail snowgirl! Love it!
This one is Nolan's Batman Snowman! Kami taught him how to spell and write it!

href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_WgAnOkzCpWc/SV0oZahqh0I/AAAAAAAAAKI/v0-
UTkhkFlg/s1600-h/Dinner+with+the+girls+12-2008+047.jpg">

This one was the next one! Washing my hands! I couldn't miss it!

So I took advantage one day when all the kids were home during the holidays, and did what most mom's do(NOT)....took a nap! The two older kids were doing there on thing but I guess Kami and Nolan decided they wanted to build a snowman so much and with the lack of snow(none that is), they did the next best thing.....drew them! I can vaguely remember some whispering and giggling as I lay in my bed half dead! When I finally was aroused from my slumber, I went straight to the toilet to relieve my bladder and to my surprise.......I had been Snowmanned(is that really a word?). My sweet little children had made these wonderful little gifts and knowing where I would go first, taped them with much love all over my bathroom and bedroom. I am so blessed to be a mom of such loving children. I sometimes forget that it is the little things in life that mean so much and this is always brought to my attention by their sweet little actions, thoughts, and precious conversations. I love you guys very much and am so thankful and honored that you picked me to be your eternal mother!

Christmas 2008

2008-12-31T09:29:00.000-08:00

So I have been a little busy and pre-occupied as of late. Hopefully things will slow down just a little and I can also get my muttled brain to come together so that I can post more often! We visited Trystan as much as possible because the current chemo treatment kept him in the hospital during Christmas. Aunt Charla and Uncle Victor were visiting Grandmommie and Mom so they took a little time to come and visit at the hospital as well. We traveled to London to be with Tim's family for Christmas dinner. The kids always enjoy being around their only cousin on Tim's side of the family, Kailin! Hope you enjoy our families memories of Christmas 2008!

Family Night of Fun! Making Sugar cookies!

2008-12-23T21:48:00.000-08:00

We had a blast making sugar cookies to share with our friends! It was really neat to see each of the children come up with a cookie creation to fit their personality! Although Dad had to to alot of the creating, the kids told him what they wanted him to make. Peighton and Tim are definitely the more artistic ones as of yet. Kami just had a blast playing in the dough, I think Coltin liked rolling in the flour, and Nolan bounced from one sibling to the next just having FUN! This is a tradition that we will continue over the years for sure!

Visit with Santa

2008-12-22T14:52:00.000-08:00

We took advantage of the snow day the kids had last week and took them to visit Santa in the Mall! Even the older kids wanted to talk with him!

Gingerbread Boy Play

2008-12-15T08:58:00.000-08:00

Kami had the opportunity to participate in a Christmas play at her school and portrayed a little chicken that the gingerbread boy ran away from! Tim and I had to come up with a costume and I have to admit, it was quite fun! Our 2 older kids have been in this same play in the years past because they have all had the same teacher for 2nd grade, but this is the first time that one actually wanted to be "in" the play. When Peighton was in it, she sang in the chorus, when Coltin's class did it, he helped with decorations,scenery, and invitations. This was a real treat for me to see one of my kiddos acting skills! LOL It was really cute and we had a great time!

Kami and the "Farmer" Cameron Garrett

Peighton really wanted to see the play to, so I picked her and a couple of her friends up from school so they could enjoy it as well! Aunt Shel brought Trystan, and Coltin and Keegan were also able to watch! She had a big audience for her acting debut!

DanceBlue Christmas party 2008

2008-12-09T17:55:00.000-08:00

There is a wonderful organization at the University of Kentucky called DanceBlue. This organization ran by students, hosted yet another party for children with childhood cancer and their families. Our family went with Rashel, Trystan, and Keegan to the Christmas party and had a blast. There was sugar cookie decorating, gingergread house making, ornament creating and alot of wonderful food. Santa also made an appearance and the kids loved telling him about their wants! Not only does DanceBlue have these great parties throughout the year, every February, they hold a 24 hour, no sitting, so sleeping dance marathon to raise money for the UK Pediatric Oncology Clinic. This was started in 2006 and in just 3 years, has raised over $750,000.00! That is amazing! Please keep your ears open for the next annual DanceBlue marathon on March 6-7 2009.

Trystan, Coltin, and Tim making a gingerbread house.

Kami, Keegan, and Nolan decorating cookies!

Out of the mouths of Babes...

2008-12-05T09:52:00.000-08:00

This is a Christmas Cactus that my Grandmother gave me a few years back before she left to serve her mission. She asked that I take care of it and handle it with love so that it could flourish and grow bigger through the years and be a reminder of the love that she has for me. Well, I have to admit the 1st year it blossomed beautifully and was given lots of my attention. However, as our family continued to grow, my time for it seemed to lessen. It is a very hearty plant and therefore did manage to survive each year. I never could figure out though if it was indeed a Christmas Cactus or Thanksgiving one or just when it would bloom! It was always a topic of conversation between Tim, the kids, and I. It did not bloom last Christmas but instead bloomed in like Feb. or March??? So, I set out to love and nourish this little plant back to health so that I would have it to pass down to my grandchildren. Well, again, it has been talked about alot as of late. This week one morning, little Nolan headed downstairs before I did. All of a sudden there was an excited squeal followed by "mommie, mommie, your flower is opening, your flower is opening!" Somehow he to had caught the Christmas cactus bug, and was so delighted that it indeed was "opening" during this wonderful season!

In Isaiah it reads...And a child shall lead them. My youngest Nolan has brought this scripture reference to my thoughts many times as of late. There have been many times in the last couple of years that I would find myself depressed and sad. I suppose Heavenly Father has a way with dealing with my sadness through my children as there is not a day that goes by that they cannot make me smile:) Little Nolan has been doing that alot lately. We were sitting in sacrament last Sunday and I think he tired of drawing or looking at the Friend magazine because he came to me and put his arms up to sit in my lap. With him being the youngest, I try and make these moments last as long as he will allow. Anyway..he was quietly observing all around for a few moments and then he whispers "mom, what if I grow up?" Well, my 1st thought was, I will be really sad, but of course I didn't want to say that so instead I said, "well, will you still come and sit in my lap and snuggle with me and tell me you love me?" To which he replied with a great big smile, "A course mommie!" So I said, "then it will be ok". He then squeezed me tight and went on as if all was right in the world! In the span of 1 week, Nolan has inspired me several times to stop and thank my Heavenly Father for the many blessings I have. I am so thankful for his sweet little spirit and all that he teaches me on a daily basis! I love you my sweet son!

Decorating for Christmas 2008

2008-11-29T13:25:00.000-08:00

With the Thanksgiving Holiday over, our family quickly got into the Christmas spirit. i was a little surprised to be honest. Not by getting into the Spirit, but by Tim wanting to decorate so early! We usually wait until a week or 2 into Dec. But this year between our little Nolan asking every hour or so "when can we put the tree up?" and everything that we have to be Thankful for, I think the bug hit us all a little quicker. We had a wonderful time as a family decorating the outside as well as inside of out home. The boys(Dad, Coltin, and Nolan) started by putting the reindeer and spotlight in the yard. This year we found some really neat twinkling snowflakes and they lined the sidewalk with them. Meanwhile, the girls(mom, Peighton, and Kami) realized that the window wreaths needed new bows. So as a team we managed to make 14 new bows! Dad decided to let the boys help on the 2nd story windows as well unbeknowst to mom! When my heart finally started beating again, I was able to snap some pictures! Dad did get a little scared of heights at the end and instead of climbing back down the ladder, went in through a window!! After the outside was completed, we came inside to decorate the banister and tree. Nolan had already went through the ornaments and put aside the ones he wanted to hang. He had about 20 ornaments in a 12 inch spot on the bottom of the tree! It was really sweet. Kami and I made some banana bread and we all had a piece! At the end of the night, Dad was aching all over(I think that had something to do with the Annual Turkey Bowl the day before tho!) and mom was really tired! It was really an awesome day!!

Thanksgiving at Grandmommie's 2008

2008-11-28T16:50:00.001-08:00

Elfed!!

2008-11-27T20:07:00.001-08:00

Send your own ElfYourself eCards

Potlatch

2008-11-27T07:30:00.000-08:00

Kami's class had a Potlatch at school to celebrate the Thanksgiving Holiday. They made vest, headband, skin bag w/ a good luck charm in it, and a necklace. There was vegetable soup prepared, beef jerky, dried fruit, popcorn, sunflower seeds and much more! It was a really nice celebration and the children learned alot about their history and heritage.

The class also made an awesome totem pole!

Halloween 2008

2008-11-20T13:57:00.001-08:00

A visit with Grandmommie

2008-11-14T14:28:00.000-08:00

We had a great visit with Grandmommie and she really enjoyed all the excitement of the kids and her great-grand dog Zoey!
Zoey jumped right into Grandmommie's lap before we even knew it! Nolan also enjoyed talking and being with her.

Kings Island

2008-11-06T14:57:00.000-08:00

We were able to go to Kings Island during Fall Break and we had an amazing time! The lines were super short and the weather was awesome! Hallofest was also going on so there were some extra fun things for the kids to do. Kami had no fear and rode just about everything. Coltin and Peighton were able to ride everything they wanted and Mom and Dad were able to ride the things they wanted and some they didn't!! Overall we had a wonderful time and the memories will last forever!

2008-11-06T14:54:00.000-08:00

Our Computer got SICK!

2008-10-26T18:13:00.000-07:00

Well, it has been a while since I posted and the reason being is our computer got a really BAD VIRUS!! Uncle Scott is working on it and hopefully it will be well before long! There has been alot going on so hopefully I can post pictures soon.

Coltin's 10th birthday

2008-10-06T12:33:00.001-07:00

Coltin wanted me to bring brownies instead of cupcakes to share with his friends at school. I am just glad that he isn't "to big" for that yet!!

2008-10-06T12:20:00.000-07:00

We celebrated Coltin's 10th birthday on the 30th. He is saving his money to buy some video gaming system so all he asked for for his birthday was money. Hence the money bag themed cake!Aunt Raina showed her awesome cake making abilities yet again!

2008-09-29T13:27:00.000-07:00

We were in London all weekend for Coltin's last baseball tourney. His team came within 3 runs of taking the 1st place trophy home, but after a total of 5 games, 3 of which were all in one day, we were ever so happy to bring home the 2nd place trophy! The boys played really well and had a great end to their season!
Before we left for London on Saturday morning, Nolan had a t-ball game. Here he is playing pitcher and as you can tell from the look on his face, it is NOT his favorite position. I think he doesn't like the helmet/mask he has to wear!
This is SERIOUS business!
Coltin's team and coaches. Nolan and his friend Carter are honorary team members so they also received a trophy and I think Nolan is more excited about it than his brother!

2008-09-21T20:34:00.001-07:00

2008-09-21T19:36:00.000-07:00

Tim and I have some dear friends Rob and Natalie Call that were blessed with a sweet little angel. After many years and obstacles, they were finally blessed with a little boy only to find out the day before the c-section that his little heart had stopped beating. I cannot even begin to imagine there grief and pain, but their strength and testimonies has strengthend me. I wanted to share their sweet little Branson Jack Call with everyone. Here is the link:

http://www.bransonjackcall.com/

2008-09-20T18:38:00.000-07:00

Between baseball and his bike......he couldn't be any happier!

Nolan riding his bike without training wheels!!

2008-09-20T18:06:00.000-07:00

Nolan was by far the easiest Yantz child to teach the 2-wheeled bike thing to! I know where we will be spending all of our free time for who knows how long now!! It makes me sad to know that our baby is growing up so quickly!

2008-09-19T12:13:00.000-07:00

Peighton is taking Home Economics in school and she was able to be a "mom" for 12 hours. She picked up her baby right after school and had to keep it over night. She was really excited to begin with, however, after a sleepless night with a crying baby, not so much!! It was a real learning experience for all of us!
Can't you just see the happiness all over her face?!?!?! This was the morning after!
Here she is with the record of when the baby cried and what she had to do to console it! Again, it wasn't all she thought it was cracked up to be!! Kami enjoyed being able to help out when Peighton would let her!

2008-09-16T14:05:00.000-07:00

We celebrated Kami's 7th birthday on Monday! It is so hard to believe that 7 years has passed since she blessed our lives.
Grommie sent her a beautiful bouquet of flowers to school for her birthday! Peighton, Nolan, and I took cupcakes to her school to celebrate her birthday with her friends. Peighton was able to go along because she has streppe and can't return to school until Wednesday!
Kami and her friends on the playground after lunch and cupcakes.
She got a hermit crab for her birthday. Here all the kids are observing the hideous looking creature!

Orchard

2008-08-31T13:44:00.001-07:00

I was going through some pictures and found this one. This is one of my all time favs!! We were at the apple orchard and was able to snap this adorable picture of my 2 youngest. Oh how cute they can be when we least expect it!!

Nolan got "caught"

2008-08-27T19:01:00.000-07:00

Nolan got "caught" at school doing something good! When a student gets caught, they get to go the the office and receive an apple necklace. This is a very special treat as their name is called out on the intercom and then also entered in to the weekly drawing for a cool prize!! Nolan was actually caught on his first day of school!! He got "caught" holding the door for all of his friends!!

boys at the ballgame

2008-08-21T10:25:00.000-07:00

Coltin, Trystan, good friend Jarryd, and Keegan. Coltin and Trystan battled over a fly ball and Coltin caught it. Trystan's reply was "you only caught it because you have 2 legs!" I thought that was really funny in a sad kinda way!!!

Nolan with Big L

2008-08-21T10:03:00.000-07:00

Nolan was a little apprehensive about posing with Big L at first. It didn't take him long to warm up though!!

Lexington Legends Baseball Game

2008-08-21T09:21:00.001-07:00

We went to the Lexington Legends game where Trystan had been invited to throw the first pitch of the night. It was very exciting for all of the kids as they were able to go in the players locker room and meet them and were also given several gifts from the players. I think between all of them they recieved a total of 7 bats, a glove, a pair of batting gloves, and several baseballs. WOW It was a very memorable experience that is sure to be talked about amongst the cousins for years to come.

First day of school for Nolan

2008-08-20T05:37:00.000-07:00

Nolan had absolutely no problem today leaving mom and heading for school! No tears just alot of questions and curiousity! He was very excited to be riding the bus home with Mr. Rex. Mr. Rex has been our family's pre-K and kindergarten bus driver since Coltin was at the Village.

This is Nolan with Ms. Tasha his teacher. Nolan sitting on the carpet with his friends!

counter

2008-08-19T20:49:00.001-07:00

2008-08-18T08:37:00.001-07:00

Kami, Keegan, and Nolan at Aunt Raina's house.

2008-08-18T08:22:00.000-07:00

My nephew Brannon graduated from Navy Basic Training on July 3rd. I snapped this picture when he came home for a short weekend. He will be stationed in Nevada. From left to right: his brothers Keegan and Trystan, Brannon, Coltin Peighton, Nolan and Kami.

2008-08-15T09:38:00.000-07:00

Coltin is way cool on the little couch in Nolan's class room!

2008-08-15T09:30:00.000-07:00

I have started babysitting again this school year. Right now I only have little miss Naelee whos is 2 1/2 months old. She is also the daughter of Nolan's preschool teacher Ms. Tasha. Our family has already grown to love her. In fact, when they get home from school they do nothing but fuss over who's turn it is to hold her!

First day of school

2008-08-14T14:05:00.001-07:00

Nolan will start on the 20th but he was able to check his bus out this week!!

Peighton, Coltin, and Kami started the 13th.

Long time no blog!!

2008-08-06T12:10:00.000-07:00

So it has been over a year since I made this blog page and almost that long since I have posted anything on it! I couldn't figure out how to post for the longest time and then realized that I just needed to sign in!!!! DUH! Anyway...we have been really busy this spring and summer! I will be posting pictures often now!!

2007-06-15T13:00:00.000-07:00

Uncle Dick with Kami and Nolan. Nolan was trying to find Uncle Dick's boogers!!!!(had to be there!) LOL

2007-06-15T12:46:00.000-07:00

Coltin is catching flies on the way to the Lexington Legend's baseball game!

Kami is out of it as well!

Nolan is also catching some zzz's homey style!

2007-06-15T11:39:00.001-07:00

Coltin was having a blast at Field Day!!!

2007-06-15T11:37:00.001-07:00

Kami lost her very first tooth this week! Mom tied floss around it and pulled it out! Kami is very proud!!!!

2007-06-15T11:32:00.000-07:00

Peighton's soccer team won a tournament the 1st weekend of June. They are now competing in a tourney(June 9th and 10th) that they have advanced to the finals in. If they win this weekend(June16th), they are headed to state!!