Pattersons

Kiera's Graduation

2010-06-04T08:04:00.000-07:00

My baby girl Graduated Kindergarten Yesterday. I can't believe how much she has grown up. She is so excited to be in First Grade. She had a wonderful teacher this year and she told me that she is moving up to first grade next year. I'm crossing my fingers that Kiera gets to have her again. Kiera is not much for change so this would be a very good thing. I love the little lady she is becoming. I have tried really hard to have a good relationship with her because of the lack of relationship I have with my own mom.

I Love her and can't believe she is going to be a big First Grader!

Dryson's Graduation

2010-06-04T07:55:00.000-07:00

We have had a couple graduations in the past month. Dryson graduated from Playschool with High Honors. He loved playschool. I'm pretty sure his teachers loved him also. Everytime we go see Dad at work all the girls come up and give him kisses and hugs. I might be partial but I think he is pretty cute myself. Dryson and is cousin eating cake...probably Dryson's favorite part of graduating!

The Three Amigos...Three cousins in one class...Good Thing they are good boys
(for the most part)

Fishing

2010-05-10T17:51:00.000-07:00

There has been a couple (and I do mean a couple) nice days this spring. A couple weeks ago we took the kids along with Uncle Ryan and Dani out fishing. Kuna has a great little pond that they started stocking with fish. It is perfect: 2 mins away and we are able to catch some fish. Ryan has took the kids a couple times since he was hurt in a work accident and really has nothing better to do.

Meet the Newest Member of the Family

2010-04-15T11:58:00.000-07:00

Here she is ANNABELLE!

Leigh and the kids have been looking for several months for the "right dog". We have been to the pound, we have been to the pet store (way to much $), and Leigh has been looking online. I gave him a price range...FREE.99 and told him good luck. Well he found one!!

She is a 7 yr old Shitzu. Her family had gotten a new labarodoodle and they didn't get along. She had been at the same home her whole life. She is house broken, doesn't bark very often(I haven't heard her yet) and very loving and cuddly. She loves to sit on your lap and loves the kids. I think she is definitely "THE ONE". Good Job LEIGH!!!

On a side note Dryson calls her "Anna Beal". She is a good friend of ours I think that is so funny. Sorry Anna

Happy Birthday Megan!!!!

2010-03-03T09:19:00.000-08:00

Happy Birthday Megan!

28 years young!

Looking good!

Pre-School

2010-02-24T10:36:00.000-08:00

Dryson is old enough to start playschool (he calls it pre-school whatever) at the highschool. He loves getting up and going to school with is Dad. He is definitaly more of a mommy's boy so some one on one time with Leigh is great for the both of them. Unlike Kiera he runs into to class and doesn't look back. There are 3 Patterson grandkids in the the class--poor teachers!

Kiera's New Look

2010-02-24T10:30:00.000-08:00

Kiera failed the eyesight test at school and the nurse told me that I needed to get her eyes checked. I thought she was totally faking it. Neither Leigh or me have problems with our eyes so why would our kids. I forgot about some of those fabulous genes that maybe we have pasted along. Well long story short YES she does need glasses. Lucky her!!! She looks totally cute in them and is very good and remembering to wear them and take care of them. She says it helps her see a lot better and I guess I believe her. I know what you are all thinking #1 mom right, not knowing that my own daughter can't see. Well I didn't I would totally recommend getting your kids eyes checked before they start school!!

Basketball Season

2010-02-24T10:26:00.000-08:00

Well Basketball Season has come to an end. It was fun to go to games again. The girls did better than expected, but it was still hard to see them loose night after night. Leigh did great NO "T's" and a lot parent complemented him on his hard work. I have to say I'm ready to have my husband back and more importantly I think the kids are glad to have their Dad back. I have to say he did great taking the kids to a lot of practices so we didnt' have to get extra babysitters. Its nice to have the kids growing up so we can do some of those kinds of things.

Good Season Girls. Welcome home Dad!!

The BIG 6

2010-02-24T10:19:00.001-08:00

That's right Kiera is n0w 6 years old. How time flies. She is in Kindergarten and loves it. For her birthday she reallllly wanted a baby alive like her cousin Ellie. So have a few phone calls Grandpa Ken came through and she got what she wanted.

I asked her 6 favorite things to do and these are her answers.

1. Go to School

2. Play at the park

3. Play with her brother

4. Help her mom

5. Play basketball with her dad

6. Play on the computer (thanks Uncle Luke)

Girls Weekend

2010-02-24T10:12:00.000-08:00

In Jan. all of My Sis-in-Laws and I took a weekend get-a-way to Salt Lake City. It was fun to get away with out kids and husbands. My fabulous brother-in-law Blue got a hotel for the weekend so no making beds, cleaning rooms, cooking or anything like that. We did some shopping, played games, and ate. We also went to see Leigh's grandma she is in a nursing home around that area. She looked great probably didn't know any of us but that is OK. Thanks for the great weekend GIRLS!!

Fight! Fight! Fight!

2010-02-24T09:41:00.000-08:00

My brother Luke has an in with the physcial therapist at the school who gets tickets for the stampede and steelhead games. On Saturday night he happened to get the sweetbox tickets so asked if me and kids wanted to go. Leigh had a game in Emmett so what the heck Right? This was the first hockey game my kids had been to. They loved it Kiera kept saying FIGHT, FIGHT, FIGHT! Dryson liked the goalies. They were so good and I have to say my favorite thing was having a bathroom right in the room. That is the only good way to watch a game with little kids. They could do whatever and not bother a single person and did I mention there was a bathroom in the room. Heaven!!

THanks Uncle Luke for the invite.

Dryson with my mom and Uncle Luke

Kiera with my dad and Uncle Ryan in the background

Christmas 2009

2010-02-24T09:32:00.000-08:00

We had a great Christmas. We went Christmas caroling on the back of Grandpa Pattersons trailor (freezing cold, but the kids loved it). My mom made these great puppets and we did a Christmas program with them. I think all the kids loved it. On the way home Christmas Eve Kiera said "Mom I don't care about the presents all I care about is Jesus" I hope that we are raising our kids in just that way. To not care about the presents to only care about the meaning of Christmas. Grandma and Grandpa Patterson gave each of the kids their own journal that they can write or color in. I hope that my kids will love to do this since as you can tell I'm not so good at keeping up on things. All in all great Holiday Season.

Thanks Great-Grandma Hanks for the BRIGHT Red Lipstick Kiera Loves IT!

Santa is that U!!!

2010-02-24T09:26:00.000-08:00

For the Make-A-Wish dance at School Leigh dressed up as Santa. He told me to bring the kids down so I did. They sat on his lap and they were NOT tricked. Dryson said "Dad that is you NOT Santa." Well that is the only sitting on Santa's lap that the kids did this year. Maybe next year we can find the "real" Santa!

Christmas Clothes

2010-02-24T09:10:00.000-08:00

This year for Christmas my mom made all the granddaughters matching Christmas dresses. We all went to Church with her and they all looked so cute. Dryson(being the only grandson) got a white shirt with a tie that my mom made that matched the girls dresses. Kiera's dress fits her so good and looks so good on her. Dryson loves his tie and wants to wear it every Sunday. I only wish I had the talent my mom has to sew so well. I was going to learn to sew one summer when I was about 9 or 10 with a couple other girls and their moms but I happened to break my arm that summer and just never have had the chance to learn.

Maybe someday:) or maybe NOT!!!

Craft Show

2009-12-02T10:57:00.001-08:00

Our annual craft show will be held Friday and Saturday!

Where: Francis Family Dental
943 N Linder Rd
Kuna ID 83634

Times: Friday the 4th 3pm-7pm
Saturday the 5th 9am-2pm

New this year--Shannon's Jewelry come check our her cute watches, necklaces, and much more.

Hope to see ya there.

Christmas Tree Hunt

2009-11-29T19:49:00.000-08:00

We had a great Thanksgiving. We had tons of food at Grandma Hanks house, then on to my Dad's for a movie and pie. Black Friday was a success!! I got home about 8:30am loaded the truck up and left for Dr. Francis's cabin. We had a blast hanging out with them. We played lots of games, watched BSU destroy Nevada, watched more football, ate more food, played more games and the best part the kids played in the snow almost the whole day. We are grateful for such great friends.

Saturday afternoon we started our journey to find the perfect 17 foot tall CHRISTMAS TREE. This has become a tradition in our family. We found one, cut it down, loaded into the back of the truck, prayed that Leigh's tying job would hold and headed home. On the way home we received lots of funny looks. Can you say "THE GRISWALDS" (please take note of the pics)PWT!! We made it safe and sound. We got it all decorated today and it looks BEAUTIFUL!

Thank You Veterans!

2009-11-11T07:42:00.001-08:00

Yesterday I had the privilege of attending the 4th annual Veterans Day assembly at Kuna High School.It is always humbling to look out in the crowd and see the changing faces. We had Vets from WWII, Vietnam, Korea, Desert Storm, Operation Enduring freedom and servicemen that have recently graduated from Kuna who have yet to be deployed but most likely will soon. The statistics say 10,000 WWII vets die each month. At this rate it won't be long before they're gone. I thought my grandpa a WWII Veteran would live forever, but he died 13 years ago at the age of 78. I wish I could go back and ask about his service. Since his death I have learned more about my grandpa's service from research and other Vet's than I ever did from him. It is a shame. I must say thank you to all who serve. Also, Megan's Grandpa Hanks served many years for this great country. He is still alive and I hope that we take every oppurnity to learn about his experiences. Thank you Grandpa!

I especially must thank my brother-in-law Kiel who serves on the USS Phillipine Sea in the US Navy. Thank you for your service Kiel we love you. I know thank you is not sufficient but know that I mean it Thank you for your support and sacrifices you make, because of your sacrifices my family and I can enjoy the freedoms we do. It is amazing to me the sacrifices these men and women give for me and my family.

THANK YOU!!!

My Brother Kiel

Leigh's Grandpa. Grandpa Perry

My Grandpa. Grandpa Hanks

Swine Flu

2009-10-25T17:56:00.000-07:00

Yes, we have had it. Kiera brought it home and luckily only got the fever and cough. I didn't fair so well. I was out for a good week. Laying in bed feeling like maybe I should just die. I'm starting to feel better, but I still have the cough. Dryson has been way to ornery to get it and Leigh has been home enought to get it. Good Luck to all you who haven't had it yet, it is coming!!!

Sugar Beets

2009-10-25T17:50:00.001-07:00

Did you know that sugar beets make CANDY!! Dryson learned this as he rode the truck with Uncle Ryan this weekend. Uncle Ryan is home and we are soooo happy. They only got stuck or "duck" as Dryson would say 3 times. He loved riding in the truck with is uncle. Thanks Ryan.

Field Trip to the Pumpkin Patch

2009-10-25T17:39:00.001-07:00

Kiera's Kindergarden class went to Linder Farms on their fieldtrip. Me being the great mom found a babysitter for Dryson(thanks Uncle Ryan) and rode the bus with her. She was sooo excited for me to ride the bus. I still can remember riding the bus for over an hour each way to school and back so riding the bus to me isn't that great, but I did it. She has a friend Alexandra who is so cute and they get along great. They each got to go through the maze, pick a pumpkin that they could carry, and see all the animals. We had a great time together.

On a side note Kiera loves school and is learning so much. She is the smartest, most athletic, and cutest (Just ask Her). Her teacher is wonderful and is teaching her lots of new songs. We got her first progress report and all 0's minus two s+ for staying task and doing her best work.

Corn MAZE

2009-10-25T17:33:00.000-07:00

This year we went to the FARMSTEAD corn maze for Shad's 4th birthday party. The kids had a blast playing in the corn, going through the maze, jumping on the jump pillow, riding the cow train, and everything else. Thanks Hillary and Jim for letting us come play at your FARMSTEAD.

Homecoming

2009-10-25T17:23:00.000-07:00

Homecoming week was like 2 months ago, but I'm just getting to post about it. We had the Francis kids for the weekend so they came with us to the game. Boise State was playing the same night so we where all a little torn. #1 our football has done all that great this year so to go watch them loose again but #2 luckly the weather was almost HOT! The History department "tailgated" before the game so Leigh cooked the burgers and we had a great time dancing and having fun.

Possible names my Grandkids will have

2009-09-20T17:47:00.000-07:00

As we were driving to my dad's tonight Kiera and Dryson were talking about how many kids they wanted to have. Dryson said 3 and Kiera said 2. Kiera wants to have a boy and a girl. The girls name-----BUTTERFLY!! The boys name-----BASH!!!! So in the future I might have a beautiful blonde haired granddaughter named Butterfly. I guess we will see!!

Our new family member!

2009-09-13T16:26:00.001-07:00

Well while Megan was gone all day Saturday and I was left to clean the office, sweep and mop floors, vacuum make breakfast and lunch and everything in between........ Just kidding I did do all those things but I don't have to blog about them to make myself feel good!!! I Love You Megan. Well I took Kiera and Dryson to Zamzows to get a new pet! I was tired of cleaning the fish tank so we got a Plecostamus AKA Sucker fish. Now since our tank has a Boise State theme and our fish are named for Broncos and Boise State it was only fitting to name this fish VANDAL. Yep that's right after the Idaho Vandals..... The reason he is named this......He Sucks!!!!! As a side note Megan is not Prego!!! hahahaha

College Football Season has arrived

2009-09-06T08:45:00.000-07:00

As I was doing laundry, sweeping the floors, picking up stuff watching Leigh sitting on his rear I realized COLLEGE FOOTBALL SEASON has arrived. Don't get me wrong I love to watch a good football game every once and awhile but all Saturday starts to wear on me.

Thursday night was great GO BRONCOS.

This was our pre-game festivies Boys HAIR CUTS. Thanks Jenica

School Time

2009-08-27T09:59:00.000-07:00

I can't believe it but Kiera has started Kindergarten. Today was her first day and if any of you have been around her lately, I was worried she was going to have a major meltdown. For the past few weeks everything she has done and loved has ended up with a major meltdown. She would be doing a headstand, walking the balance beam and crying. A couple weeks ago she ended up not going to her primary class because she was crying. So I was very grateful that there was NO TEARS today. We got to school a little early and she played, found a couple kids she knew, lined up at the door, Mrs. Wallace had them blow their moms and dads a kiss and she was gone. I think little man Dryson had a harder time. During family prayers this morning he started crying because Kiera got to go to school and he doesn't. I also think has asked what time is it about 10 times this morning. NOT TIME TO PICK UP KIERA!!! I keep telling him. She gets to go all day on Tues. and Thurs. and every other Fri. I can't wait until she gets home and tells me all she has learned.

This summer has flown by. Leigh has started school again and guess what? He also is coaching again. I'm so lucky, right. Back to being a coaches widow. He is coaching the freshman football team. I think he is liking it. Well I promise to be better about keeping this blog updated. I'm not sure there is enough time in the days to keep up with everything.

Day 1

2009-08-03T08:51:00.000-07:00

Leigh, his brothers, and his father all went on a week long horseback ride trip which leaves me home by myself. I never really wanted to be a single mom, but it looks like this week I get to play the part.

Day 1: Went great! I was in charge of sharing time so we had to go to church. In the morning I finished getting my sharing time done, cut out coupons, and got me and the kids ready for church. After church my best friend, Jody, invited us over for dinner and Dave cooked us up some fried Twinkies for dessert. Got home put the kids in bed and thought I could get some much deserved sleep. NOT!!!! There were teenagers at the pool until 10:30(this is the first time the pool in the back yard has been a problem) that would not be quite. I almost called my friend David to come take care of them, but then they left. So I tried to go back to sleep. Then at 1AM I hear this horrible noise coming from Kiera's room and I know she is THROWING UP, you have got to be kidding me, the one night that Leigh isn't home. I don't do throw up well. I have a really strong gage reflex and can make myself puke on command. From that point on I would get a mess cleaned up, and she would make a new one. It is 10am and she hasn't puked for an hour. She is a sleep, but I still have Dryson that is ready to play! How Lucky can one mom get!! Keep you updated on day 2,3,4,5,6. I sure hope Leigh is enjoying himself.

We went on a trip

2009-07-25T17:31:00.000-07:00

On the 17th we loaded the car and started a 7 1/2 hr drive to Northern Idaho. The drive was ok going there. Dryson only had to pee in a bottle (just kidding he was to gun shy to do it, but don't think I didn't try:) twice. There we met up with Cindy (we stayed at her house), my Dad, Luke, Jenica, Ryan, Dani, Tood, Nichole, Mckenna, and Jo Jo. Sorry Kiel, we really missed you.

Friday: We met up with my brother Derek and his wife Mariesa at the Spokane Riverfront Park. The kids rode a 100 yr old carousel, played on a huge radio flyer wagon slide, cooled down in the fountain. That night we went fishing and everyone got skunked but KIERA. Dryson kept asking Uncle Derek "you catch me a fish yet".

Saturday: Girls went shopping, ate at Olive Garden "yummy" boys and kids went to the park played horseshoes, bocce ball, guys took lots of naps, I believe they "took turns" watching the kids. Cindy had to go to a wedding so my Dad had sad puppy eyes so we went to Hayden Lake to take his mind off Cindy. We played in the water and hung out. What a nice Lake, I think I wouldn't mind retiring there someday! That night after a little crying from Kiera Grandpa finally gave in and let us start a little fire for smores. Thanks Dani for introducing us to the Reeses Smores.

Sunday: Went to church-just kidding we were on vacation. Cindy came back so we spent lots of quality time with FAMILY. We took our kids to Lake Coeur D'Alene and walked the worlds longest board walk and watched how the other half lives (reading their newspaper on their yacht). NICE!!

Monday: SILVERWOOD!!! We loved Silverwood. Kiera rode all the rides she could including 2 wooden rollercoasters. Cindy and Grandpa took Dryson for the afternoon so Leigh, me, and Kiera made the most of it and rode a lot of rides. Thanks Cindy!!! Dryson peed off the train and got to drive a old time car. The park was clean not a lot of teenagers and the best part was a refillable mug for $9 so we didn't spend a lot of money on drinks or food. Sorry not a lot of pictures I was having to much fun.

Tuesday: Golf day for the MEN!!! Luke won the first ever Durrant Family Open. Leigh came in last, but is improving. He didn't hit the clubhouse this time!!! While the guys went golfing we took the kids to Build-a-Bear for a little souviner. They had a moose that was soooo cute. We made one for Grandpa and Cindy to remember the trip. That night we had a "to die for dinner" even though we had to wait a little longer then we all wanted. More smores that night.

Wednesday: Drove home. To much construction, Megan not feeling well, NOT A FUN RIDE!!!!

Thank you so much Cindy for letting us stay with you. Thanks family for "being on your best behavior". Thanks Dad for Silverwood and Golfing and everything else you did.

PS. Why are you here? Why are you wearing clothes? Is this Cindy's house?

Thank You

2009-07-05T09:27:00.000-07:00

First and foremost I want to thank my brother Kiel for serving in the United States of America Navy. It is a job I would not want but I am so grateful for those men and women who serve this great country.

We went to the Melba Parade yesterday for the 4th of July and I got a little choked up as I thought about this great country. I can't image living in a country where you are told what to do each and everyday. We take the liberty's that we have for granted each and everyday. We had a great 4th. The parade was fun, lots of candy, lots of friends, and there was nice little breezy so it wasn't sooo hot! After the parade we went to RC Willey to look for a new dishwasher and get some FREE lunch. We then went home took a nap and prepared for the night ahead. We went over to some friends house for a BBQ and fireworks. There of course was some pyro's there so there was a lot of blowing things up, sparkler bombs, and of course illegal fireworks. We had a great time and no one went to the ER.

Consider it done!

2009-06-12T14:02:00.001-07:00

Well I've been out of school for almost two weeks now. I had one "REAL JOB" to do this summer and from the sounds of a few posts ago I thought it was going to be horrible! Potty training that is! Dryson was being so dang stubborn but as soon a school was out I started working my Magic....This is the 3rd kid I've potty trained! (For my resume send inquiries to......Just Kiddding) It really just took a little time and letting him know Ligtning McQueen and Mater do not like to be pooed or peed on oh and don't forget the treat bag that our neighbor Jodie brought for him! Thank goodness for cool underwear and a great neighbor, right

He's a BIG BOY NOW!

Dryson's Birthday take 1

2009-06-12T13:50:00.000-07:00

My dad is out of town today so he celebrated Dryson's birthday Wednesday night with us. My family, Dad, Ryan, Dani, Jenica, Todd, Nichole, Mckenna, Paiton, Leigh, Megan, Kiera, and the man of the hour Dryson all went to Red Robin and had dinner. My Dad got him the coolest fishing pole (it lights up when you reel) and an ORANGE Boise State hat. Dryson thought he had died and gone to heaven. He loves fish and has yet to take the hat off. Jenica got him some BSU crocs and he will probably cry when we don't let him wear them to church.

Summer Hair

2009-06-12T13:40:00.000-07:00

Jenica gave Kiera a new summer hairdo and it looks so cute on her. It kind of makes her look older, but I guess she is getting older.

Dryson also got his summer buz. All that blonde hair gone! The skid mark is from him running way to fast and crashing at the park.

Volleyball Camp

2009-06-12T13:32:00.001-07:00

Kiera has decided that she wants to be a volleyball player. Kuna has an awesome head coach for their volleyball program that puts on a fabulous camp. She let Kiera be in it even though you are suppose to be in Kindergarten. I was so impressed with the way the camp was done. Kiera loved every minute of it. I think maybe someday she just might be the volleyball player she thinks she already is.

PS: the camp was held in the junior high and boy did I forget how YELLOW the gym is!

Kiera, Rachel, and her coaches (Cori Star, Larry, and Abi)

Kiera bugging Rachel

Getting ready to hit the ball, nice table top!

Graduation-Key Note Speaker

2009-06-12T13:20:00.000-07:00

Leigh was chosen by the senior class of 2009 to be their Key Note speaker at graduation. He did an awesome job. I know he put in on facebook, but I can't get to go on the blog. Here are some pictures of the night

Leigh walking up to the stage!

Kiera, Dryson, and Grandma Teri

LAGOON

2009-05-22T11:42:00.001-07:00

For the past several years Leigh has got to go with the Senior class to Lagoon for their senior trip. I think maybe he has more fun than taking care of kids, but I am glad he got to go have a little fun (someone needs to). They leave the school at 3:00am and get home that night about 11:00. I am not sure that is my kind of fun! From the pictures that one of his fellow teachers took it looks like he had a blast.

Mothers Day

2009-05-15T13:46:00.001-07:00

Better late than never RIGHT? So I had a fabulous mothers day weekend. It started Thursday with flowers from my kids at work. They came from a strange place in Eagle so for the life of me couldn't figure out who had sent them. I though maybe my friend Cindy, since she doesn't live here, but when I talked to my Dad he didn't seem to know anything about it. Well come to find out Leigh had a gift certificate from 1-800-flowers and that is why they came from a strange place. They are beautiful and "I never get flowers at work". Then on Saturday I had received a massage gift certificate for my B-Day and figured why not use it up so Saturday afternoon I got a 90 minute massage. Heaven on Earth!! After that I put on a BBQ for my mom and my brothers and their families came over and we had a nice time. Sunday Leigh made crepes with fresh strawberries and the kids gave my their gifts. Dryson gave me a new "pancake turner" and he said "you flip me mom" and Kiera gave me a new wallet. I had told Leigh about the wallet I want, well needless to say I think it took the kids shopping Saturday night and the wallet isn't quite what I expected, but I love him for trying:). Leigh got me some new Dr. Schols inserts for my walking shoes so I think I am set to eat, spend money, and workout!! Some of my favorite things to do it life. I think maybe if I didn't do so much of the first and I wouldn't have to do so much of the last, but I love to eat!! I love being a mom and a wife. I am grateful for a husband that treats me good and loves me for me. Thanks Leigh, Kiera, and Dryson for a great weekend.

Me like my Diapers

2009-05-06T13:06:00.000-07:00

I am about ready to pull my hair out! Dryson, who will be 3 in a month, refuses to use the toilet. I will make him sit on it and he will cry for hours. Today Dr. Francis told him if he doesn't stop using diapers he CAN"T go swimming in his pool. Great incentive RIGHT? No I put in on the toilet and after an hour of crying he went so I put him in big boy underwear. Then I turn my back and he has pee running down his legs. I think I am loosing my mind. I know that "boys are harder then girls", but come on! Well I guess he will learn when we are all swimming and he is sitting on the side:( Any tricks from moms would be appreciated.

To bad he is so dang cute! Hard to mad at him to long!

Graduation

2009-05-06T13:02:00.000-07:00

Kiera has done it!! Graduated from playschool for the 3rd time. She got to be the leader going up the stairs and thought she was pretty hot stuff. This year 2 of her cousins went to playschool also so the school was terrorized with 3 Patterson cousins( just wait until they are all in High School together)!

Tee Ball

2009-05-06T10:13:00.000-07:00

Kiera has been playing Tee Ball for the past few weeks and loving every minute of it. I had signed Leigh up to coach not knowing that meant I got to coach also:), but for the most part we are having a blast. Dryson has to bring his mitt to every game but luckily the Francis girls babysit him and play with him during the game they are such motherly girls. My brothers and Dad have been coaching the bases and I am sure grateful for them. It amazes me how some parents(not all) expect you to do it all and they will come drop their kid off and they are your responsibility. I am starting to understand why some kids are the way they are, just look at their parents or lack of parents. It makes me sad and yet grateful that I can be there for my kids and support them in their dreams and journey through life. I had great examples of this growing up. My mom was always there for everything and she had SIX kids that were very active in everything. I don't know how she did it TWO is wearing me out already.

These are pictures of her before her game because I don't have time to take pictures during the game. Maybe next week my mom can take some for me!

True!

2009-04-25T13:23:00.000-07:00

I hope there are other moms out there that feel this way, cause I sure do sometimes:)

Play Date!

2009-04-21T20:31:00.000-07:00

Come to my house tomorrow Wednesday April 22nd at 11:30!

Make sure you bring yourselves and don't forget the sunscreen!!!! I can't wait to see you all tomorrow. I will be providing lunch (corndogs for the kids and something else for the adults) if you feel like bringing something great but don't feel obligated!

If you need directions call me!

See you soon!

Happy Easter

2009-04-12T10:29:00.000-07:00

It is tradition in my family to go miles and miles away to go have a Eater Egg Hunt in the middle of who knows where. It has been going on for at least 30 years and I think I have only missed 2 or 3. My grandpa and grandma Hanks along with Aunt Gayla and Uncle Ron work very hard to prepare for this event and we thank them for it. This year it was nice in the fact that the fire was already for hotdogs to be cooked and things were ready to go! We all bring our "famous dishes" which I always bring a berry salad. So we always have way more food then needed. My mom even had some of her famous potato salad left. We went to Succor Creek which is just outside of Idaho in Oregon. Very Beautiful! The kids had a blast climbing rocks and checking things out. After we eat the fun begins and we start t0 get eggs ready. Every egg has a number on it and every number is attached to a prize. Some of the prices are good and some are not so great. I love when the boys get necklaces and things like that because it is the luck of the egg. The GOLDEN Egg for the older group was found by my brother Luke, which is a good thing because it is the only income he has seen in the last 4 months:) Here are a few pictures from the day.

The fun didn't stop there. We then left in time to make it to the Patterson Egg Hunt. Which was held in their neighbors HUGE yard. I heard that Grandma Patterson hid all 330 eggs. That is impressive. Thanks for the fun and the ham dinner after. I don't think I will have to eat for days!

My latest ADDICTION

2009-03-30T18:49:00.000-07:00

COUPONS!!! Thanks to Walgreens and Albertson's today I got:

5 candy bars

5 sodas

1 gallon of milk

1 Hall cough drops

17 soft soap body wash

6 shaving creams

2 sidewalk chalk

2 bubbles

5 chapsticks

20 boxes of cereal

Total you ask:

$36.47

Savings of $175.00

Me fulfilling my shopping habit:

PRICELESS

CHAMPS

2009-03-22T17:29:00.000-07:00

Leigh (and my little brother Lukie, that's so he can't be mad at me any more) and a few of his "older" friends/coworkers played on a city league team this year. Yes many of them are old and out of shape, but it was a good experience and good exercise. Most of the games were way too late for me to go watch, but I did get to go the "Championship game"!!! I think most of them were about ready to die, but they pulled it through and came out on top. Yes they are B3 Nampa City League Champs!!

GOOD JOB LEIGH AND THE REST OF THE TEAM

Freezing Meals

2009-03-18T14:16:00.000-07:00

I can't lie I HATE, HATE, HATE cooking dinner. So I have been reading a lot of blogs about freezing dinners. I think I could handle one day of mess and cooking! So I am wondering who else would be interested! From what I have read groups of 6 are great! Let me know what you think or if you have done this before or are doing it now. Any recipes or ideas for meals would also be helpful. Thanks

Go for the Gold!

2009-03-18T14:09:00.000-07:00

Kiera had another gymnastics meet this past weekend. She did great! She is getting better and better every week.

Kiera just finishing her meet and getting a refreshing chocolate milk!

GOLD!! She got 3 1st place and 1 2nd place (that dang vault)

Finally

2009-03-15T18:21:00.001-07:00

It's Craft Night!

Wed. March 25th

Go check out all the fun crafts @ wowvinylletters.blogspot.com. Or follow the link!

Happy Birthday Megan!!!

2009-03-03T07:16:00.000-08:00

Wow I can only imagine what it was like for your family 27 years ago today when you were born into this world. For the past 8 years I have been truly blessed to have you by my side you are an amazing person and I truly Love you! Thank you for all you do for me and especially our family. You are the Best! Happy Birthday.

Love,
Leigh

Playschool take 3

2009-02-24T14:37:00.000-08:00

This is Kiera's 3rd of going to the High School's playschool. You can't beat the price of $25 for the entire 3 months and it gives Kiera and her dad a chance to bond in the mornings. This year she has two cousins Shad and Jenkin with her and she is loving it. I remember the first year she wouldn't stay by herself and would cry almost every single day, now she says "you can just drop me off and I can go by myself". My how the time has flown by, come August she will being going to Kindergarten and doing all the things bigger kids do.

Kiera eating breakfast getting ready for her first day of Playschool

She woke up at 6:30am to make sure her dad didn't leave without her!

Walking into the High School

Waiting for School to start in Dad's classroom

Playing puzzles the 1st day of Playschool!

Retirement

2009-02-18T13:30:00.000-08:00

After 24 years of coaching high school basketball my Dad will be retiring after this season. He was Leigh's coach all 4 years (we all know that must have put a few grey hairs on his head), he has coach 5 of his own son's and many, many others. He has been a great example to the community and great influence on the kids he has coached. I hope my children will have the opportunity to have such a great coach as the get older. Here are a few pictures from last night.

This is Dryson and his girlfriend Annie. He his one smart boy and goes straight for the blondes.
This is my dad!

Dryson and Uncle Ryan
Kiera watching the game

Time to get away!

2009-02-11T15:14:00.000-08:00

This last weekend we decided it was time to get away so we decided to go to the cabin in Cascade. The weather was beautiful. It was so sunny Saturday I had to ask Leigh that night if I had a sunburn. Leigh's sister Heather and her family also came up with us. We went to the McCall winter carnival and saw the ice sculptures, went sledding (Kiera would go down the hill, up the hill, and repeat about 50 times), played games, and just hung out. . Dryson hated sledding-he didn't like the snow in his face, he probably walked at least 5 miles on Saturday between McCall and sledding, but he loved the ice sculptures. Thanks Hayes family for coming and keeping us company!It was nice to get a way.

I am grateful that the Perry's have keep the cabin for weekends just like this!

5 years Ago...

2009-01-30T13:36:00.001-08:00

I can't believe 5 years ago today I was told that our little Kiera was going to be born 5 weeks early. It was scary but I knew that everything was going to be alright. At 9:40 on January 30th, 2004 Kiera Lynn Patterson was born weighing 5lbs 4 oz. She was rushed into the NICU only to be brought back to me about 30 minutes later-she was perfect! Kiera has grown up to be a very smart, funny, energic, lovable, sassy, and cute little 5 year old. She loves to be the center of attention and if she is not she will try her hardest to become it. She loves her family, friends, coloring, lipgloss, build-a-bears and most importantly Jesus. I am proud of her and the little lady she is becoming. I'm trying not to make her grow up to fast, but she reminds me of the way I was growing up--you know 5 going on 15.

Happy Birthday KIERA!! I love you-Mom

Kiera's first photo's-she was so tiny!

Kiera at 5 years old. She has grown up so fast

Party with friends. Kiera wanted to invite to 2 friends over so she chose Ellie and Dejah. We went to Mcdonald's for lunch and Build-a-Bear. The girls had a blast.

Walking with Dinosaurs

2009-01-21T15:47:00.000-08:00

Last Saturday we went to the Walking with Dinosaurs show. This was the kids christmas present from their Grandma Teri. They loved it. Dryson was scared at some points but for the most part he did very well. Kiera's favorite part was when the long neck dinosaurs wrapped their necks around each other. Dryson's favorite part was the baby T-Rex, but as soon as the mother T-Rex came in he was SCARED. The dinosaurs were huge and realistic looking. I hope you all watched the making of it on channel 7 a couple weeks ago.

Happy Birthday DAD!

2009-01-07T09:17:00.000-08:00

Sorry this is late, but Monday was my dad's birthday. My dad has always been there for me. At a young age I attached to my dad and I have always been daddy's little girl. At three years old I ran away from home with my dog to go looking for my dad, I guess that is just the way it has been and will probably always be. He has always been there for me and now my kids when we need him. He makes a great babysitter (just ask Dryson who gets to stay up all night if Grandpa is there). He loves his grandkids and would do anything for them. He loves to take them to build-a-bear and then McDonalds and Kiera thinks that is the coolest. I am grateful for a Dad that will stop doing whatever he is doing to help one of his kids. Happy Birthday Dad and we LOVE YOU!!!!

These are pictures from his birthday dinner that we did at my house Sunday night. Kiera, Dryson, and Grandpa

Kiera, Dryson, McKenna and Grandpa

I could be bias but I think he has some of the cutest grandkids ever!

Santa Claus and the Tooth Fairy all in one week!

2008-12-30T16:48:00.000-08:00

Well today while Megan was at work Kiera came to me and said Dad I think my tooth is loose. I said sure whatever and kind of played with her top teeth and wiggled them but not real loose. She went away and pretty soon came back and said dad look! I looked and to my surprise she was holding a tooth! She pulled out "her first baby tooth" as she would say. She is so proud no tears and did it all by herself.

What a WEEK

2008-12-27T15:43:00.000-08:00

What a week we have had. Lots of Family, Friends, Food, and Fun. Thanks to all who have made this Christmas a very special one. Here is a look back on a fun filled week.

Sunday--what a blast. Soup and white elephant gifts with some friends!

This is the song that never ends-yes it goes on and on my friends!!!

If small children are around--close their eyes!!
Who's butt is that?

Monday--Bowling with my MOM and brothers--Yes my mother beat me

(I think my wrist is broken)

Uncle Kiel showing Dryson how to do it! It was so great to have him home!

Kiera thinking she is hot stuff!

Lots of FUN--Thanks MOM Tuesday--Food and Fun and did I mention Football. So we all were mad that night after our beloved Boise State lost by one point! ONE POINT (looks like we owe some $ taco's Scott)

Wednesday--We hade Christmas with the Patterson's. We did it at the church. We ate peaches and sausage, played eight base(my legs are still killing me) and opened presents. We promised Orion and Wynne that we would show Kiera and Dryson opening their gifts so here it is.

We also had Christmas Eve with my Grandma Hanks. We had lots of food and after we eat we always have a talent show. The last few years it has just been teenagers and young and old adults. We are starting to have little kids again and the talent is starting to come back. This song is one that I did as a little girl with my cousins and my Grandma thought it would be neat to have our kids do it. So here it is-

Christmas Morning--Opening presents:

Dryson: got his fishtank with gold fish

Kiera: got her Bike -I'm not sure how many men it takes to put training wheels on that Santa forgot!

Megan: got a new pillow!

Leigh: got his 30-06 gun (thanks Randy:)

All and all it was a great Christmas week. It is great to spend time with family and reflect on the reason for the season. We hope 2009 brings along as many wonderful memories as 2008 did.

Using your fire hose!

2008-12-11T19:19:00.000-08:00

So we've beeen trying to persuade Dryson into start trying to use the potty. Well tonight while we were driving we were talking about being a big boy and using the potty. This is how the conversation went.....
Leigh: Dryson it's about time you start using your fire hose to go potty in the toilet
Dryson: No Dad!
Kiera: Dryson but that's what firemen do.
Dryson: Don't say that Wearwa (Kiera)!
followed by lots of laughter and a pouty face.

BUBBA

2008-12-08T19:08:00.000-08:00

We got the pleasure of watching Jenica's puppy Bubba over Thanksgiving break. My kids loved Bubba. They drug him everywhere they went. Up the stairs, down the stairs, outside, inside, everywhere that poor puppy could go. Dryson would say "where Bubba go" and they would go chase him down. Kiera was in tears and I mean tears when he had to go home on Sunday. Leigh promised that one day she could get a dog... Just NOT now. I think that when she gets married and has her own house would be a perfect time for that DOG!!!!!

Thanks BUBBA for the rockin good time.

Santa

2008-12-01T20:09:00.000-08:00

So the last two times I have taken the kids with me shopping it hasn't failed that we run into a man with a long white beard and a little belly Dryson then screams SANTA!!!!!! and continues to scream SANTA SANTA SANTA until the man acknowledges him and we say you better be good he is watching you everywhere!! I am not sure if all these men stay in their homes until December or what but I never see them until Christmas time. I sure hope my kids are good so the real Santa might come to our house.

Happy Thanksgiving

2008-11-27T08:18:00.000-08:00

So as usual in our family on Thanksgiving Day, I am at home with the kids cleaning, cooking (not so much I was asked to bring a relish tray -- Costco makes great relish trays) and laundry while Leigh is playing Football. He will come home and not be able to move so I will have to get the kids ready for dinner and anything else that needs to be done--

Isn't Thanksgiving GREAT!!!

Happy Thanksgiving to all my Family. Thanks Kiel for your service I hope wherever you are they are making you a great Thanksgiving dinner. We can't wait to see you in a couple weeks!

Pee Diddy

2008-11-23T18:54:00.000-08:00

5 things he loves:
1. His Daddy's girl Kiera, His mama's boy Dryson, and his HOT wife
2. Butterfly Kisses at night

3. Sports- I don't think it really matters what kind -Just NOT SOCCER

4. Woodworking-especially when it is for fun and not just another project for me!
5. Being in the outdoors--fishing, hunting, camping, horseback riding

5 things on his to do list:
1. Make 20 frames(thanks hunny)

2. Play football on Thanksgiving Day
3. Vinyl, Vinyl, and more Vinyl

4. Grade all the 6 page papers he made is classes write(who assigns a 6 page paper )
5. Go Christmas shopping ! :)

5 foods he enjoys:
1. Panda Express
2. I think everything minus spagetti, ramon noodles, and mac and cheese (all the easy stuff)
3. Steak
4. Texas Roadhouse--ribs

5. BBQ--he really loved Jacks BBQ is Nashiville, TN

5 things you might not know about him:
1. He wins a lot of things from the radio, internet, my coke rewards
2. He weighed 10 pounds 6 ounces at birth

3. He has taken anger mangement and passed with a gold sticker( I know this might supprise some of you)

4. He has NEVER lost a wrestling match against anybody:)
5. He drove from Cascade to the ER with his pinky finger almost cut off in about an hour

2 places he's lived: he doesn't like change much
1. Kuna, ID
2. Balitmore, MD

5 quirky things about him:
1. He collects lint in his belly button ( I am not sure if most men do)
2. He loves to craft, all the ladies love him at craft night
3. He has never driven me the hospital to have our children-nice work
4. He has more fun in his classes then the kids do
5. He has to sleep with a cold pillow

I tag whoever wants to do this

Christmas Craft Show

2008-11-19T19:29:00.001-08:00

Words of Wisdom
Christmas Craft Show
Friday Nov. 21st 3pm-7pm
Saturday Nov 22nd 9am-2pm
2140 w Caliret (Crimson Point sub)
Kuna,IDAHO
Come get all your Christmas shopping done without the crowds and lines.
.Tiles .Intarsia
.Glass Blocks .BSU Gifts
. Frames .Custom Clocks
.Stackers .Wood Crafts
.Block Letters . Signs
.Magnetic Boards .Vinyl Lettering
And Much, Much More
Special orders guaranteed by Christmas!

This is what happens...

2008-11-19T08:32:00.000-08:00

when Kiera is in charge of getting her brother dressed for the day. His dad would be so proud!!

New Cousin

2008-11-14T15:09:00.000-08:00

Congrats to Todd and Nichole Durrant!!

Paiton Jo Durrant has arrived. 6 lbs 15 oz 22 inches long

Kiera is sooo excited to have a new baby cousin.

Go Orange Go Big Blue

2008-11-12T11:02:00.000-08:00

Fight, Fight, BSU

Saturday my Dad gave us his season tickets seats for a hot date. My "sister-in-law" Jenica :) and my brother Luke came with us. At the start of the second quarter we(the girls) went out to get something to eat for the boys and when we came back we decided to have a good time. We were chest-bumping like the guys do and yelling (it was a very boring game). We had a great time, but Leigh and Luke thought we had made a detour for the beer garden. Just having FUN guys!!! Thanks Dad for the great afternoon. I also have to thank Grandma (Jenica's mom) my kids were really calling her that by the end of the night:) for watching Kiera and Dryson. After the game we played games at the Cotterells and lets just say I'm not sure Luke knows what Yoga is! Also watch out for his ability to sculpt almost anything out of clay! Thanks for the Laughs

CRAFT NIGHT

2008-11-12T11:01:00.000-08:00

Craft night will be Thurs Nov 20th. Ck out wowvinylletters.blogspot.com for all the info. Thanks
Megan

Family Pictures

2008-11-05T20:02:00.000-08:00

Last week we had family pictures taken. Mandie Anderson a friend of my brothers took them. She did a great job (I would highly recommend). She is so affordable and spends as much time as needed to get great pictures. Check out her blog capturedmomentsbymandie.blogspot.com

Halloween Pages

2008-11-05T17:57:00.001-08:00

A couple scrapbook pages of Halloween!

Trick or Treat (smell my feet)

2008-11-02T12:53:00.000-08:00

Thats right give me something good to eat! Holy cow my kids got loaded up with candy, playdough, pencils, crowns, earings, lipgloss, cars, balls, and did I mention CANDY. I have very spoiled kids but people seem to love them. We have some great friends who have 2 kids(one in college and one in High School). He called us up Friday morning and had to make sure we where coming to his house. He had gotten each of the kids a bucket full of things they would like. He got Kiera a princess dress up thing and as soon as she put everything on she walked passed his fireplace looked into it and said "I AM CUTE". After Grandma Teri's, Grandma and Grandpa Hanks, Papa Durrant, Grandma and Grandpa Patterson's, the Castoe's, and the Kerbs we really didn't need to go anywhere else but we had already told the Francis Family we would go have dinner and trick or treat with them. Kiera had a blast and Dryson loved it (he was just a little to slow for all the older kids) I ended up dropping Dryson off halfway through the neighborhood and then we finished. We had great weather (the best I can remember) and great company.

What a cute GIRAFFE!!

Say cheese Dryson!

Thanks to a great neighbor who had a giraffe and zebra costume, It's a jungle out there!

Kids with Grandma Teri

Trick or Treat!!!

Sugar Cookies

2008-10-26T16:40:00.001-07:00

So for a fun relaxing Sunday afternoon Kiera decided that she wanted to make Sugar Cookies. I got the dough ready after dinner and after a quick nap and a trip to Grandma Patterson's for a pumkin cutout we were off. The cookies turned out great! Grandpa Durrant and Luke came to visit and even decorated a couple cookies.

Leigh put frosting on Dryson's nose. He sayed "no nice daddy"

Luke being to cool to frost a sugar cookie

Grandpa and Kiera

What a Great Mom!!!

CRAFT NIGHT

2008-10-19T14:06:00.000-07:00

I am having my first craft night October 28th (which is next Tuesday) from 6:30-projects are done and you are ready to go home! I am trying to make this a fun, kids free, night to get your projects done. Listed below are the projects for the night. If you have any requests for future nights(hopefully once a month) let me know. Reply to the post or email me @ wowvinyl@msn.com to get your projects ordered. The cost covers everything you will need to finish your project!

Give Thanks Board

$5.oo

Harvest Blocks

$6.00

Have an Attitude of Gratitude Glass Block

$8.00

Words of Wisdom Blog!

2008-10-19T11:54:00.000-07:00

I have had a lot of people ask me to start a blog on top of our website so that it gets updated more often so here it is! wowvinylletters.blogspot.com

Beauty Queens

2008-10-12T16:54:00.000-07:00

The girls decided since Leigh and Grandpa Patterson were entertaining the kids we would would go to Jenica's salon and have our hair done. I had been there that morning and since my hair looked so good they wanted the same. Their hair turned out great(as always) Jenica is the best!!

BEFORE!!

BEFORE!!!

AFTER! Don't they look good!

Thanks girls for a great Night OUT!

If you would like to look as good as us call Jenica @ 899-5509

Time with Cousins

2008-10-12T16:44:00.001-07:00

After the parade it started to rain and it was so cold there was no way that we wanted to go watch the game so we had Emillee, Jackson, Orion, Wynne, ReNae, and Mylie over to have pizza and do whatever. The kids love to spend time with cousins.

Kiera had found candy necklaces, that you had to make, at the store and the kids loved making them.

Jackson and Dryson

Dryson loved EATING the candy. Go figure!

Orion, Kiera, Dryson, and Jackson. Spending time with cousins is the best.

Homecoming Parade

2008-10-12T16:32:00.000-07:00

To start off, it was so cold outside that we were some of the only people on the street. We had to judge the floats and that was the only reason we decided to go. Leigh's sister Emillee was here from Rexburg so they are climatized to the weather and braved it with us. THANKS!!! We got lots and lots of candy for a 10 minute parade. Leigh kept saying to the kids "is that all you got" and they would throw more.

It was so cold outside we had to break out the winter coats.

Waiting for the parade to start

Look at all that candy!

The kids found more candy after they searched the sidewalks!

The senior float had something to do with KFH(Kentucky Fried Hawk) and threw this chicken bone! All we want is CANDY!!!

Spirit Week

2008-10-08T12:39:00.000-07:00

It is Homecoming week at KHS and Tuesday was hillbilly day. I am so sorry for those of you that are actually blood related!

Kiera and her crazy dad

Hey Hot Stuff

He pulls this look off pretty well. All the kids said he was the best dressed teacher

Dryson Loves his hillbilly DAD

2008-10-01T15:18:00.001-07:00

Make a Smilebox scrapbook

2008-10-01T14:17:00.001-07:00

Make a Smilebox scrapbook

The MAZE

2008-10-01T07:51:00.000-07:00

Last weekend we went to the corn maze. We took Luke and Jenica with us. Leigh and Kiera thought it was funny to run ahead and hide in the corn and try and scare Jenica. Luke's hand didn't think it was to funny. Kiera said it was "the best day of her life". Her favorite part was riding the cow train. Dryson didn't like the train he cried almost the whole time. I loved the mini doughnuts! YUM YUM!!!

Luke is in some serious trouble!!

First church talk

2008-09-24T13:29:00.000-07:00

Kiera had a very busy weekend. Not only did she have her meet she also had to give her first talk in primary. We told her that she needed to practice so she could do it all by herself. She did so good. She was a little nervous but aren't we all. Leigh also had to speak in church and did very well. All the ward commented on how well he did. He wouldn't practice for the camera so we just have Kiera Sunday morning practicing and Dryson giving "his talk" also.

First GOLD medal

2008-09-24T13:07:00.000-07:00

Kiera had her first gymnastics meet this weekend. She did awesome and got her first gold medal. There were about 40 kids and she was one of three that got first place in balance beam, bars, floor, and vault. We are very proud of her and I think she is very proud of herself. This morning she was singing "I got a gold medal, I got a gold medal" She also said when she makes it to the Olympics she will invite all of you to come watch. We will see!!Kiera thinks she is all that! Dryson thinks that he might want to do this someday! Dad doesn't!
Kiera getting her metal
Waiting to be called up

This is a video of Kiera's Meet!

Take the Jump

2008-09-24T13:05:00.000-07:00

You always here the saying, if they jumped off the bridge would you jump too! I guess I WOULD. So everybody else is getting a blog and I thought it might be a cool thing to have to keep in touch with family members that do not live close or better yet keep in touch with family that live a few miles away but we never get to see! So here it goes!