Bennett Family

Summer Sampler.........

2009-07-12T17:43:00.000-07:00

The kids and I at Deer Creek....we went up later in the evening and watched the sunset......
so beautiful and the lake was so full, looks like plenty of water this year!

Mom and I :)

Taylor loving the sand.....closests thing we have to a beach!

Summer Sampler......

2009-07-12T17:35:00.000-07:00

Chase and Grandma at the 4th of July Parade......Provo

Bridal Veil Falls - the cold water felt so good after a long hike!

Bridal Veil Falls.......Provo Canyon

Deer Creek Reservoir............maybe hes trying a back flip????

Back from Girls Camp!

2009-07-03T11:55:00.000-07:00

This was Taylors first year at Girls Camp. She spent a week up in Heber -weather was mostly great. It did rain and hail on them while on their hike, brings back great memories of camp in Washington. She just got home this morning - boy did we miss her!

She had so much fun and she hasn't stopped talking since we picked her up.

They hiked, they laughed, they cried, they sang and OH did they dance :)

Chase and I have spent the last hour learning all the camp dances.

I am so grateful she had a wonderful experience and made so many new friends. Taylor has always loved life and really knows how to have a good time -

we love her and are happy she is home again.

(you can tell by Chases face in the pic. how much he missed her)

2009-04-29T17:59:00.000-07:00

Taylor has been taking piano lessons for a few months as was ready to participate in her first AIM judging competition this Saturday. She was so nervous, but did fabulous. The students have to take a theory test, pitch hearing test, memorize and play two songs, sight read a song they have never seen and then compose an original song and write a paragraph about it, Sheesh.....I'm glad I never took piano :). She did amazing! We are so proud of her.

So Chase has had hair issue since the day he was born. The main issue has been having too much of it. Up to this point he has let us cut his hair religiously, that is up until a month or two ago.......now it is a complete nightmare.......he won't let anyone touch him and he has become quite the helmet head. Sunday was it - I couldn't stand it anymore. It took three of us, one to hold him, one to hold his head still and one to run the clippers. As you can see from the pictures -we did it. I can see his cute little face again. Hopefully this cut will last for a few weeks.

Chase is becoming a good shot with the Nerf gun - don't turn your back :)

2009-04-08T12:57:00.000-07:00

How do you get 7 kids to all take a picture together??????

Zac chillin in the Dino Mouth.
Cool hair Matt.

Say.......Spaghetti......MMMMMM

Family times in Utah

2009-04-08T12:51:00.000-07:00

Matthew and Isaac having fun at dinner!

This ones for Jenni - he does clean up nice :0)

Love ya Tim!

This was the best of the worst - at least all the boys are in the picture.

More New Mexico Fun

2009-03-24T18:57:00.000-07:00

The kids and I took a road trip to New Mexico to visit my Bro. Tim and his family. It was so good to see all of them and to let the kids play and get to know each other. Poor Isaac and Sarah getting blown away by the wind.

Landon with a big smile as usual.

Landon went inside and came out with his hoody on to protect him from the smoke - funny kid.

Can I have s'more please - mmmmmmmmmmmm

We have never been to Four Corners so how could you make it this far and not go........it only took us twice as long to get there.......hahahaha.........ask Tim about that one :)

Not really anything else there but,

"Four Corners"

Once again another fun filled windy day.

It was a great drive - both of the kids were awsome travelers. We loved seeing all the red rock and being able to see forever in one direction - we haven't been able to do that for awhile (to many trees in Washington, which of course we miss too)

New Mexico

2009-03-24T18:46:00.000-07:00

Check out the white caps on the river!
We went to Durango, Colorado for the day and it was sooooo windy!!! We still had a blast though and spent plenty of money at Fuzzywigs candy store - yummy!

The boys had so much funny playing and Taylor was a good sport to play along - they all just love her.

Thanks Uncle Tim for taking me to the Twilight release party............You're the best!

Musik Garten

2009-03-11T09:59:00.000-07:00

Chase and I started a Music class about a month ago and today

he got his own symbols, books and CD.

He is very excited and YES,our house is very loud!!!

No More Monkeys Jumping On the Bed.........

2009-03-09T11:04:00.000-07:00

Congratulations Jenna & Jared!

Can't wait to see the room all put together.

More Taylor pics..............

2009-03-04T13:37:00.000-08:00

Hey Mom!

Taylor loves to be creative and take her own picture - not bad! Peace out Dude - favorite saying

Taylor and Cousin Makenna or "Kenna" according to Chase

More Taylors pics.

2009-03-04T13:31:00.000-08:00

Taylor and New Friends Sara and Emilee Mt.Rainier from the airplane moving day

Taylor and Cousin Cassidy - Miss you Cassidy!

Thats one way to wear them!

Random pics.................

2009-03-04T13:20:00.000-08:00

Taylor got a camera for Christmas but lost her USB cord. We finally got a new cord and can now share pictures she has taken.

Chase and I at the airport riding on the moving sidewalk at least a billion times.

Taylor and Grandma - Love you Grandma

Captured a smile on camera.

Taylor and Chase best buds!

Notice the Alice Necklace.

Family Update - Our move to Utah

2009-02-05T09:32:00.001-08:00

We have been in Utah for almost 2 weeks now so I thought would fill you in on what we have been up to. The move went really smoothly thanks to family and friends. We have been so blessed to have such wonderful people in our lives!!

Ryan was able to find a job with in 2 weeks which was amazing - he is working for a large construction company out of Salt Lake. He is currently working on the Montage in Park City. From what I hear this is a huge Ski Resort project at Deer Valley. The Hotel actually sits between two ski runs - it is going to average around $3,000 a night. He was offered great pay with benefits. Once again we have been so blessed. he is tired from the long hours, but feels grateful to even have work. We hope to have Ryan in school within a year and working towards his Construction Management Degree.

Taylor started school this week and so far loves her Teacher, the kids and the school. She keeps saying, "everyone is so nice". The girls across the street both go to her school - one is even in her class - they have been great to her. She already wants to have a slumber party this weekend - my social butterfly! She had to go back to elementary school to finish sixth grade here, but I think it will be a good transition to Junior High. She starts Piano lessons next week -she is so excited! She loves to be busy!!!

Chase has been sick but seems to be on the mend this week. We are hoping to get him into tumbling or something he can do during the week so he doesn't get bored of just Mom. He is loving all the snow - and he keeps saying, "Sun Out!!!!" I guess this is something new for him :-)

He does not call it home yet, it is the New House. Overall he has done really well with the move.

And I have been trying to make a house a home. Each day I add a few touches that make it feel more cozy. I'm sure it will take no time at all before it looks like we have been here forever. I am learning my way around again and exploring all the new places that have sprung up all over.

Below are some pictures of our new house and neighborhood. Once again we are so lucky for our families. Ryan's family has let us borrow a car until I get one, and my family for this beautiful home we get to live in. We love you!!!

What would our house be without a church out the front door?

The view from our driveway.

This is our new house!!

Here is the backyard -
Chase went out to play in the sunshine.

Meet Kimmi Kitty

2009-02-02T19:54:00.000-08:00

Last summer this kitten was found with siblings in a dumpster. They were rescued and bottled fed and now one of them lives with us. She has actually been a great cat - she even tolerates Chase. She kept squinting at the flash - I guess we will turn it off next time.

Thanksgiving Point

2009-02-02T19:48:00.000-08:00

We didn't even make it a week without going to Thanksgiving Point.

Taylor's favorite place to go ever since she was little. Chase was not as impressed -

"Scary Dinosaur Noises" He did however really enjoy the 3-D Africa movie.

Every time an animal would pop-out he would rip his glasses off to make sure they weren't really in front of him.
Very stylin....

Twinkle Toes.............

2009-02-02T19:45:00.000-08:00

This is what happens when you have a sleepover with your Sister and Cousin.

The hair and fingernails really finished the look............

Taylor's Going Away Party

2009-02-02T19:36:00.000-08:00

Some of us were able to witness the insanity first hand - for those of you that were spared -

here is a brief glimpse of our evening.

The game was pop a balloon and perform the "DARE" that was inside.

How many dum-dums can you fit in your mouth???

I have since found chocolate covered insects and salt & vinegar crickets!

Boy......were you girls lucky!!!!!

Let's get this party started...............

Anyone have change for a dollar????

A crazy night - but, OH how we will miss all of you!

White Christmas

2009-01-14T20:50:00.000-08:00

We were so excited to have this fluffy whiteness cover the ground Christmas Day! This is Ryan and Chase clearing the church parking lot (hahaha) with Chase's new tractor.

It's always better if you put your face right in it.

Taylor and Chase sledding behind Papa's jeep
We have two adrenaline junkies - ok -three if you count Ryan too.
His took his turn next.

Lets hope this is not a sign of future occupation...

2009-01-06T22:18:00.000-08:00

Driving a tractor while on the phone with Aunt Jenni

YES - THEY EVEN HAVE A PILLOWCASE

2009-01-06T22:13:00.000-08:00

Gotta love Dr.Suess...........

2009-01-06T22:10:00.000-08:00

I have heard there are troubles of more than one kind.
Some come from ahead and some come from behind.
But I've bought a big bat. I'm all ready you see.
Now my troubles are going to have troubles with me!
Dr. Seuss

2008-12-23T18:41:00.000-08:00

MERRY CHRISTMAS
TO ALL OUR FRIENDS AND FAMILY-
WE LOVE YOU!!!!

Lynden Light Parade

2008-12-10T13:25:00.000-08:00

Tractors and lights - what more could you hope for?

Chase thought he had gone to heaven. Our family has enjoyed this parade for the past few years. You show up a few minutes before it starts, set up your chairs, break out the hot chocolate and settle in for a very cold sometimes rainy parade. Semis - tractors - cars - horse & buggy's -you name it it's probably in the parade.

This has to be my favorite.
Look close and you will notice a Donkey in the back. The car does not actually have an engine - the donkey is pushing it and the guy up front steers it like a car. I am so glad I don't own a donkey, because Ryan thinks this is a great idea!

The kids loved it when the fire trucks blew their loud horns! This one is an old one so it was not as loud, but still very cool to look at.

MERRY CHRISTMAS

Who would have thought....................

2008-12-01T13:08:00.000-08:00

Let's go back to this summer when Grandma Karen and Papa Bear were visiting us here in Washington. We were downtown Fairhaven enjoying walking around the shops when we ended up in Village books. Taylor picked up a copy of Twilight and that's pretty much were it all started - oh ya - back up just a bit, Grandma Karen bought Taylor the copy of Twilight and that's were it all started. Taylor has always hated to read big books. She was a start a book and never finish it type reader. I used to struggle to get her to sit down and complete her reading minutes for school but, lately I have had to ask here to come out of her room where she is reading and join the family for a few minutes. She quickly became captivated with the Twilight characters. She would talk about them like we all knew who they were (no one else in our house has read the books). Seeing the movie did help.

When she found out that Forks was a real place and then to find out that it was in Washington...That about sent her over the edge. She soon started plotting her trip to Forks. After bending Dads ear (who loves road trips and exploring) they both began to try and squeeze in a trip before the weather got much worse. The trip for us was only about 4 hours and a ferry ride. Very doable! We had planned to surprise Taylor and just start driving, but of course plans kept changing and we were not sure if we could go at all. Then Ryan came home Friday and said he did not have to work Saturday as planned - ----Should we go!!! We loaded the car Saturday morning and were on our way to the Ferry by 7:00 am that morning. Of course we had to talk Grandma and Grandpa into going with us -after all they had listened to Taylor all these months too. I am so glad we took the trip. It was very much needed R&R and tons of fun for the whole family.The area is absolutely gorgeous and the time we spent together is priceless. I would recommend a road trip for everyone. Enjoy the pictures and maybe some of you will end up there too.
P.S. I might have to read the books now (ssshhhhh)

2008-12-01T13:02:00.000-08:00

Taylor found this creepy mossy tree doorway on our hike to the falls.

I wish I took better pictures. I love water falls. The hike was only about 1.5 miles. Chase even walked most of the way.

We were all pretty wet and muddy after this hike.
Good thing we were on our way home.

We found this HUGE tree just standing alone.

My Dad is 6'2" if that gives you any perspective.

It seemed to go on forever up into the

sky.

More Twilight adventures...................

2008-12-01T12:56:00.000-08:00

We passed lake on the way to Forks that was just amazing (Crescent Lake I think?)

There was a sign for some falls so we decided to get out and hike for a bit. Very cool mossy forest. Once again there are ruts on the sides of the road in front of the sign.

Too funny. Who would have ever thought!

This is one of the islands you can see from First beach. The view was breath taking!! A great place to visit Twilight or no Twilight.

Taylor and I enjoying that the sun came out for a minute.

2008-12-01T12:45:00.000-08:00

These pictures are not in chronological order - but you get the idea.

Here we are at First Beach in La Push. The weather once again was foggy, but it did lift later and was a gorgeous day. The tide was coming in so the waves kept creeping closer and closer. I had to jump up on the logs a few times to avoid getting soaked. Chase just kept saying, WHOA!!! As you can see the locals are taking full advantage of "being on the map"

We chose to stay at the hotel below. I have to mention that the rules for our room included, No smoking, No pets and No cleaning fish in your room. Gotta love small towns. It was a two room, full living room, full kitchen for $75.00. Like I said - gotta love small towns.

This is what Taylor looked like all weekend after she raided the Souvenir shops.

Jacob sweatshirt, Edward button.

Leaving on our adventure-

2008-12-01T12:33:00.000-08:00

A couple from out of town opened this store in Forks selling - yep- you guessed

it Twilight stuff!!!! I didn't know the history behind Forks, so it was very interesting to find

out they existed before Twilight.
All of the landscaping on the side of the road by the Forks sign is now
just tire tracks. I wonder how many people have stopped? You can't come all this way and not
stop. There is even a plank so you can walk right up to the sign without climbing. Taylor was thrilled.

This picture starts our adventure to Forks. We went from Keystone to Port Townsend by ferry -then drove the rest of the way to Forks. Chase loved the boat. It was very foggy so you couldn't see a whole lot on the way over, but they did see a huge Seal eating his lunch while trying to avoid the seagulls that were dive bombing him for a snack.

XOXOXOXO

2008-11-18T13:29:00.000-08:00

This makes it all worth it!!!!

It's all in the box......................

2008-11-12T09:18:00.000-08:00

So what do you do on a Rainy Sunday afternoon???
Of course you haul in a box from the garage and make it into a
new condo for your kids.
It's still all in the box - you buy a gift and they play with the box. I'm thinking this Christmas - huge refrigerator box (minus the refrigerator) the perfect gift! I think this box has been in our living room for almost two weeks now and they play with it everyday. I say "they" because not only do Chase and Taylor play in it - I have also found a few other adults that will remain nameless in there as well - you just can't help but get in the box! just in case you are curious - we got the box from a friend to put our large mirrors in - we can't claim the 50" flat screen - we just want the box................

Chase's new hobby is to "read" the toy magaiznes we are getting in the mail this holiday season. After he scans the magazine for up to an hour he will sit down and point out all the things he wants me to buy! He turns every page - comments on every toy and then settles on the ones worthy to buy.

I am hoping for short term memory loss Christmas morning. I am really enjoying this age of exploration and discovery - I love to see them grow and develop new skills and personality. One of a kind - just the way I like them!

~ 6 Random Facts ~

2008-11-04T13:38:00.000-08:00

The Rules:
1. Link to the person who tagged you http://www.kbennettphotography.blogspot.com/
2. Post the rules on your blog (this is what you are now reading).
3. Write 6 random things about yourself (see below).
4. Tag 6 people at the end of your post and link to them.
5. Let each person know they have been tagged and leave a comment on their blog.
6. Let the tagger know when your entry is up.

Here you go - Everything you never thought you wanted to know:

1. I am terrified of water. I couldn't sleep all night after watching "The Guardian". Yes, I live in Washington - more water than I ever wanted!!!!
2. My new passion is Swedish Pancakes - if you haven't tried them you really need toooooo
3. I love gadgets. I think there should be a gadget for everything!
4. I hate surprises. It kills me not to know.
5. I am a Virgo - that pretty much says it all don't-cha-think.
6. I want a dog, but I haven't found one that doesn't shed, bark or poop.

Now it's your turn I tag..........Elissa, Brittany, Rocky (if she ever checks hers), Jennifer Rand,
and Bonnie J.
(I don'tknow how to do the linky thing -sorry)

Trick or Treat

2008-11-02T20:07:00.000-08:00

Here's the whole gang on Halloween. I think this was the first year that we

all dressed up. It was a "Hippy" theme for our Church trunk or treat party - as you can see I was the only one that stuck to it......Mike Meyers......

This is the new don't take my picture hand.

I don't even take that many pictures and

he still hates it.

The Duck Pond was where Chase spent most of his time.

How many ducks can I fit in one net???? and how wet can I get before someone tells me to stop?????

Taylor and some family friends (Philip & Ilene) ready to go play in Fairhaven.

Chase was sad he couldn't go with the big kids :0(

Pumpkin Results

2008-10-29T19:34:00.000-07:00

Do I really have to tell you who's pumpkin this is????

Taylor wanted to paint - since her first carving did not come out as planned.

Chase had to paint since he was completely disgusted by the pumpkin guts.

Painting kept him busy long enough for all of us to enjoy the moment.

BOO

2008-10-29T19:32:00.000-07:00

So, here we are so excited for Chase to be old enough to "WANT" to carve a pumpkin.

I should have known that he was not going to be excited when we had to talk

him into even getting a pumpkin at all!!!!

Let's just say he liked the knives better than the pumpkin.

Here is his total disappointment with what is actually inside a pumpkin. All I could make out was EEEWWWHHH...........YUCK..................MESS.....................

For being such a boy at most things - he sure doesn't like the feeling of pumpkin guts.

Ryan, trying to hide his idea so we won't steal it.

Like we wanted a big Kiss face on our pumpkins too.

Taylor picked a very unique pumpkin this year and is trying to figure out how exactly she is going to carve it. She ended up doing a dog and didn't like it - so she took over my pumpkin. What Mom's won't do for their kids :0)

A few thoughts for your day -

2008-10-17T14:56:00.000-07:00

My sister and I attended an Oprah "Live your Best Life" conference in Seattle about 4 yrs. ago and I just came across a binder Oprah gave each of us. This quote came from the section
"You are Co-Creating your life.":

"I read and walk for miles at night along the beach.......searching endlessly for someone wonderful who would step out of the darkness and change my life. It never crossed my mind that that person could be me."
Anna Quindlen

From the section "Take your Glory and Run":
"Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light, not our darkness, that frightens us. We ask ourselves, who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, and fabulous? Actually, who are you not to be? You are a child of God. Your playing small doesn't serve the world. There's nothing enlightened about shrinking so that other people won't feel insecure around you. We are born to make manifest the glory of God that is within us. It's not just in some of us; it's in everyone. And as we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same. As we are liberated from our own fear, our presence automatically liberates others."

Flash Back

2008-10-16T10:12:00.000-07:00

I found the bath picture of Chase first so I had to start digging through scrapbooks to

find one of Taylor (aren't computers wonderful). I found this one that I have always loved, so I scanned it in and now I have a set of pictures for the bathroom. They even kind of look alike.

I love bath time!!!!!

Tub Time

2008-10-16T10:09:00.000-07:00

I have always wanted B&W's of my kids bath pictures. I found theses two

pictures that I am going to scrapbook in a 12 x 12 frame and put

up in the bathroom. They were even close to the same age

when the pictures were taken.

Picasso..........

2008-09-26T10:02:00.000-07:00

Taylor loves to draw! She is constantly caring her sketch book around or taking it in the car. These are two pictures that she showed me the other day. I have loved to watch her talent develop

She is also in an art class at school that she is just LOVING! I guess when you get into the higher grades they let you start thinking for yourself and come up with your own ideas. Taylor has always enjoyed her own ideas more than others :0) so, she has taken this class and run with it.

Labor Day

2008-09-22T20:24:00.000-07:00

So how many people can say that they went to the lake on Labor day and were the only ones there???? There are so many lakes around here that you can actually do that. We took the backpack for Chase and packed some lunches and headed for Church Lake. It is on the way to Mt. Baker, but you turn off before you get there and head up a dirt road until that ends then you hike the rest of the way in. The lake was so clear and cold (straight glacier run off)

There is another lake lake between these trees and down the hill. As we were standing on the top of the ridge looking down a rainbow appeared between the trees. I don't think I have ever looked down on a rainbow before. Pretty amazing.

Yes, Ryan failed to tell us about the marsh lands we had to maneuver to get to the lake. We even made it through (barely) without any of the kids falling in. Taylor is usually drawn like a magnet to these situations. It was a great day - I wish we could do this more often.

1st Day of Middle School

2008-09-22T20:23:00.000-07:00

How bad is this - I am just posting the first day of school pictures almost a month late.

As you can see Taylor is into the "Save the Planet" mode. She would have made a great hippy. She wants Grandpa to save his old VW Van for her first car.

Let's hope this is just a phase.......................

She loves school and is doing great. She started playing Volleyball on Saturdays (clinic's), but can't play for the school until 7th grade, she can't wait!

Chase and the Frog

2008-09-22T20:22:00.000-07:00

Our house happens to have a field behind it that has a water retention pond. I guess because of this pond we get hundreds of these little green frogs in our yard every summer. Chase loves to watch them hop around and let's everyone else hold them, but runs away if the frog even looks his way. So today was a new day - he wanted to hold the frog!

He held it for a minute then let it go in the garden.

SHE DID IT!

2008-09-03T19:54:00.000-07:00

This might not seem to monumental for most of you but we are going on about 4+ years of trying to get her ears pierced. She had them pierced when she was about 6 then took them out and ever since she has been to afraid to get them redone. We have even been sitting in the chair, dots on her ears, guns loaded and she has chickened out. I told her if she could talk someone else into taking her then she could get them done. She talked my Mom into taking her just before school started and she actually went through with it. YEAH!! She is doing really good with them and should be able to change them out in a few weeks.

Camp Firwood 2008

2008-09-03T19:38:00.000-07:00

Two lucky little girls - Taylor and her cousin Julia attended a summer camp on Lake Whatcom (in Bellingham). Here they are getting ready to go find their cabin!

Because they have so many water sports during the week the first thing they have to do when they get to camp is pass a swim test. It was freezing, but they were troopers and both of them passed with flying colors.

Here is their cabin. There were 8 or 10 girls in each of these little cabins and one leader per cabin - brave leader I think -

Not looking to bad for just coming home from a week at camp -

we miss you Julia!!

Happy 11th Birthday

2008-09-03T19:37:00.000-07:00

Time flies.....Taylor is 11 and every year seems to go by a little bit faster. She had a great birthday with her cousins - we were lucky to have my sisters family in town for her party. This has not been my year for cakes. As you can see her cake has a nice crack down the center -that just got bigger and bigger. I left the cake on top of the counter adn then turned the dishwasher on - yep - the cake got hot and everything started to slide!!!! Taylor is such a good sport and loved it anyway.

Her very own cell phone. I thought we were going to stay strong, WRONG! I can't complain much because it has already come in handy to get ahold of her.

Happy Birthday Taylor

2008-08-12T20:05:00.001-07:00

This one's for Bonnie - (My Mom was not as much help as you can see :0) - so here it goes!

Four random things I like about my husband:
1. He can fix anything…
2. Not only does he have hair he has great hair…
3. He let's me - be me…
4. We like alot of the same things…
Four jobs I’ve had:
1. Pizza - Pizza - need I say more
2. Linens N Things
3. Industrial Outside Sales
4. Manager of a Grainger Industrial Supply
4 movies I’ve watched more than once:
1. ICE AGE
2. The Bee Movie
3. Bourne Ultimatum (any Bourne movie)
4. Lord of the rings
Four places I’ve lived:
1. California
2. Washington
3. Idaho
4. Arizona (briefly)
Four TV shows I watch:
1. Food Network
2. What not to wear
3. Sponge Bob (maybe I shouldn't admit this one)
4. Grey's (when it's on)
Four places I’ve been:
1. My sister and I just took the kids to Lopes island - it was wonderful.
2. New York
3. Washington DC
4. Alaska
Four people who e-mail me regularly:
1. SPAM
2. Mamasource ????
3. Family Fun weekender
4. Travel Zoo
Four of my favorite foods:
1. Peanut Butter and Chocolate anything
2. Pasta
3. Strawberries
4. Fun mixed salads
Four places I would like to visit:
1. Back to New York with my family
2. New Zealand
3. Norway
4. Cross Country Road trip!!!!!!
Four things I am looking forward to in the coming year:
1. Potty Training
2. Moving - maybe -
3. More projects completed
4. Simpler Life (it's worth a try)

My Favorite Things

2008-08-12T19:42:00.000-07:00

Every once in a while kids just do stuff that makes you smile.

If you haven't noticed Taylor has the phone tucked in the towel on her head so she can still eat and talk to her Best Friend on the phone.

I know how horrible the mess is going to be even before I give him the ice cream cone, but as you can see he usually wins!

O.K. so we finally got around to painting the shed. We decided to paint it red (not white). So I was painting on the opposite side of the shed when I heard a small proud voice saying PAINT - PAINT. I thought yep, "Mom's painting". But I soon realized he was talking about me painting - he was talking about Himself painting and doesn't he do a wonderful job!!!!!!

Bucket Head

2008-08-12T19:41:00.000-07:00

This is Chase and one of Chase's friends Jared. As you can see Chase has a huge bucket that he later filled then dumped over Jareds head.

So once Jared retaliated Chase decided to use the bucket as a shield instead of a weapon.

I was laughing so hard I almost couldn't take the picture because he didn't just stand there with a bucket on his head - he actually ran around the yard screaming with the bucket on his head. Jared just stood there with a look of complete surprise is his face

Tub Time

2008-07-08T21:46:00.000-07:00

With the weather being so nice lately we have been spending alot of time outside.

Chase and outside = alot of dirt which = alot of baths.

So his new thing is my bath tub full of bubbles. Taylor has been gracious enough to play with him so I can still get some things done. He turns on the jets and watch out world - I can hear him laughing through the entire house -which makes it all worth it.

Not only does he like to bathe in the tub, it has also become a very versatile place that he can stop in for a drink when needed.

I was thinking of some of the crazy things he has has been doing lately and have

compiled a short list below:

(Where is all this stuff in the "Your Child is 2" books????)

1)Today he pulled almost all the keyboard keys off of our laptop computer in about two minutes

2) anytime there is a window open he has been breaking the little black pulltabs

off the screens from the inside.

3) Most of our floor vents are closed because he will put anything and everything down them - he even takes the cover off so he can get bigger items down it.

4) We bought him a train table for his Birthday and screwed the track down so he wouldn't be able to take the track off - well, he walked out with the bridge and a few pieces of track in his hands last night - screws still attached!!!!!!

5) He had a handful of nickles (he got out of my purse) but he had his PJ's on and didn't have any pockets -so he put them all down his diaper for safe keeping - Surprise!

6) We are trying to start potty training - so far he loves the potty but can't seem to make anything happen. He just sits there looking down saying "PeePee Out"

7) He loves to collect all the worms from our yard and put them in big piles, not so bad but,he pulls up the landscape paper to find them.

Crazy as it is I wouldn't trade being a Mother for all the money in the world.

Jello Flag!

2008-07-08T21:45:00.000-07:00

~Happy 4th of July~

I learned a very valuable lesson making this Jello Flag cake, that is:

"Never transport a Jello cake"

I was so excited to see if it turned out like the picture that I completed the cake at home and failed to think what would happen if I had to drive with it to Ferndale - HMMMM.

Well we all took turns trying to smooth out the ride for the cake, but by the time we got there - it really didn't look like a flag at all. All the blueberries slid off - the whip cream melted and then the top layer began to give out.

Owell - it was a good try -

Hopefully I saved you all the same heartache :0)

99 Bottles of Jam in the Kitchen.........

2008-07-08T21:44:00.000-07:00

So if you ever ask yourself- what does 80lbs. of strawberries look like?? Well let's just say that we did 82 jars and have 5 gallon bags frozen to add to the Raspberries when they are ready. What a fun day though. All the kids had a great time picking (we should have weighed them on the way in and the way out), Then my Aunt, Dad and I stayed up way to late canning the last of the strawberries. Can't wait for the the other berries this summer!!!

5th grade Science Fair

2008-06-08T22:17:00.000-07:00

SO what brand of TP do you use.

Last week was 5th grade Science Fair week. Of course Taylor could not grow a plant like the rest of her class she had to test which brands of toilet paper are more biodegradable. You will pleased to know that her findings are that Scott 1-ply is by far the most easily biodegradable. (just in case you are wondering)

Taylor giving her presentation to anyone and everyone that stopped by her booth at the Fair.

She did such a great job and has a very strong aptitude towards Science.

Graduation is Thursday and then off to Middle school -

Hopefully next year will be as great as this year!

Congratulations Taylor!

MO Presents

2008-06-08T22:15:00.000-07:00

Aunt Tracy and family got him this really cool water sail boat play center for outside. Can you believe the box actually says that the convenient height is designed to keep children clean - are you kidding - he was soaked in 2 seconds and he loved every minute of it.

Ryan actually go him to smile for the camera. This is a first, usually he runs or hides his face.

So this was the big present from Mom and Dad. "The Train Table". Anywhere we go that has one of these table, banks, playlands, toy stores, ect. that is all he wants to play with. So why not have one at home? Great investment - he has already been totally captivated with this table - not to mention the older girls seemed to enjoy the trains as well :0

It's not so Terrible being 2.........

2008-06-08T22:12:00.000-07:00

Today was Chase's 2nd Birthday!

As you can see we opted for the Hot Wheels theme. Everyone got a new Hot wheels car to try out on the track (centerpiece) Chase doesn't really know what it means to have a birthday yet - so when we would say happy birthday to him he would kind of halfway smile and say YA! I'm sure he was thinking - what is up with these people????

Gotta love Costco sized cupcakes

He did enjoy blowing out the candle - so of course we had to relight it a few times to he could continue blowing it out.

Down on the farm

2008-04-17T21:48:00.000-07:00

We had a great sprig break. Here we are at Cow Town in Mt. Vernon. It is a big barn with all kinds of baby animals. Chase was not impressed by being licked by the calves, butted by the goats, rubbed on by the pigs and so on. He was very content to be carried around. I don't even have any pictures of Taylor and Cassidy because they were so busy tending to all the baby animals that we couldn't find them until we went to leave.

Right at home on my tractor - he did want down to sit on the tractor of course.

By the way, the reason we were at Cow Town was because we wanted to see the Tulip festival, but, guess what - no Tulips!!! It has been too cold so they are not even blossoming yet - we will have to go back at the end of the month after the Tulip festival to see any Tulips. It is pretty amazing when they are all in bloom. I will post pictures if I get any this year. Spring break was fun and relaxing and now it's back to the old grind!

Can you spell TROUBLE?

2008-04-17T21:46:00.000-07:00

WOW -this face has trouble written all over it and he can back it up!!!!

Last week was Spring break and instead of going anywhere big we went on a few little day trips. One of the days we found ourselves in Monroe at the Reptile Zoo. As you can see by Chase's face he was a bit shocked by what he was seeing. It was pretty funny watching him run from snake to turtle to crocodile to lizard growling and jumping up and down in amazement.

He did muster up enough courage to put a finger on the snake.

Taylor on the other hand was right at home with "Buttons" snuggled in her sweatshirt.

Too bad Dad is afraid of snakes :0(

Fun with Rainbows

2008-04-17T21:43:00.000-07:00

How many rainbows can you find in this picture?

The unexpected nap

2008-04-04T20:59:00.001-07:00

There is nothing better then falling asleep where you are just because your tired. I absolutely love when he does this - granted it does not happen very often, but when it does I just have to smile. I put him in the chair as I was walking by and came back to him snoring away.

Smile tons, Play hard, Laugh loud and Sleep deep - all in a days work.

(By the way he has had a hair cut since this picture - man does this kid have hair!)

Amtrak to Seattle

2008-04-04T20:59:00.000-07:00

CHOO CHOO!!! Every year we go with my Mom's class on their Amtrak field trip to Seattle. This year it was to the Aquarium. I haven't been to the Aquarium forever so it was fun to go again. Chase could have stayed at one tank he entire day and watch the same fish swim by. He hated to leave one tank to go to another. The older girls did an Aquarium quiz - that kept them busy running around the Aquarium. The train ride as usual was a blast. It is such a gorgeous ride and it was a wonderful sunny day.

The diver that was in feeding the fish posed for a picture with the kids - very cool! How would you like that job???? I was not great a picture taker that day because I realize these are the only two pictures I have from our trip - owell maybe next year. So, basically we went on a train and saw a bunch of fish :-)

HAPPY EASTER!

2008-03-26T21:26:00.000-07:00

I'm not sure if he was looking at the eggs on the ground or his race car Easter basket. He picked up the first Easter egg and yelled ball and threw it across the room (we had to hunt inside because it was raining) surprise, surprise! After we showed him that they actually went inside his Easter basket - he did a little better and only through a few - he loved to hear them crack when they hit the ground. Nothing soft about this one.

Taylor showing off her very colorful Easter outfit. This year we did a word unscramble/treasure hunt game for the older girls to find an egg or a prize, but they still had more fun watching Chase throw the eggs. I am sure the girls laughing didn't encourage him at all :-)

Chase's race car Easter bucket -he is not quite as obsessed with "Cars" since he discovered "Free Willy", but there just didn't seem to be the abundance of whale baskets this year so he got Cars!- can you believe he actually wants to sit through a not cartoon whale movie.

This is what happens when you eat a bright blue sour gum egg! Makes my mouth water even to look at the picture

We hope everyone had a great Easter.

Dinosaur Field Trip

2008-03-02T14:28:00.000-08:00

Last Friday I took my cousin on one of her class field trips. We went to the Everett Mall to a store called Dig It. They teach the kids about fossils and then let them find and recover a fossil of their own. Chase liked the play Dino outside the store the best.

Taylor and Cassidy drilling their finds.

Cassidy hard at work!

OH YA - Chase's other favorite part of the field trip was the space ship in the mall.

OOPS!

2008-03-02T14:25:00.000-08:00

Chase absolutely loves popcorn. He will go in the pantry and grab a bag of popcorn and take it to the microwave. He gets so excited for a movie (usually CARS) and popcorn.

So if you ever find Popcorn in my couch cushions now you know why!!!!!!

Heart Strings

2008-01-30T22:12:00.000-08:00

Children know just what strings to tug on when it comes to the heart - Taylor handed me this poem tonight that she wrote about Chase for a school assignment.

Here It Comes!

A very energetic little boy

Tearing through the living room

My 2 year old little brother

A bit shorter than my waist

As cute as a kitten

Destroying everthing in sight

With his little hands and teeth

Jumping and running around in the big room

by Taylor Bennett

Happy New Year

2008-01-03T22:02:00.000-08:00

Ryan practicing for this months Snow cave camping :0)

Taylor, Cassidy and Chase. Look at the sunshine. It was such a beautiful day. What a great way to start the New Year!

After Chase go tired of sledding down the hills on his stomach we coaxed him into the tube and by the smile on his face you can tell he liked that. He kept saying more, more. We all got a good workout hauling him back to the top.

Nothing like a bottle to finish out the day!

Mount Baker

2008-01-03T22:01:00.000-08:00

It seems that it has become a tradition to go sledding at Mount Baker after Christmas. This year was gorgeous and there is plenty of snow as you can see.

Chase all decked out in his new snow gear.

He has no idea what we are doing here but he was excited.

OK - not so excited in this picture. (it gets better) He wanted to walk and not ride in the sled but it was so deep he couldn't move his little legs. Later he did figure out a pretty good army crawl that worked to get him through the deep snow.

Taylor enjoying a series of tunnels that someone had dug in the side of the hill.

Christmas 2007

2008-01-03T21:58:00.000-08:00

I think Taylor is having a good Christmas - What do you think?

Chase took his time looking over each item as he opened his stocking - that is after he finally got up @ 9:00 am.

OK are boys just born knowing what do with power tools and cars??? It amazes me that he even knew what to do with the drill. Maybe he was paying attention during his nine months at Grainger :0) He is working on Ryans Nascar PEZ dispenser.

WE GOT A Wii

This is Taylor rocking out to guitar hero.

She is actually very good (when Ryan will let her play)

Thanks Julia for the Red lip gloss it made the outfit!

All in a days work

2007-12-19T22:29:00.000-08:00

Chase loves Dinosaurs. He makes a funny little growl sound when you ask him what a dinosaur says. Since he doesn't say many words yet we have been practicing animal noises - he is very good at making noises.

It was all I could do the other day to get anything done so, we pushed up a chair to the sink and got some cups and let him go for it. He stood there for over an hour while I got dinner ready. He was soaked, but it was sooooooo worth it.

Taylor had her second recital for her voice lessons. She did very well! She sang the First Noel. and of course, true to Taylor fashion she chose a beautiful Renaissance dress to perform in :0)

What does a horsey say?????

2007-12-19T22:27:00.000-08:00

Grandma Karen and Papa Bear sent Chase this horse that he can ride and when you press it's ear it makes horse noises. Chase is very good at these noises himself - so he runs around the house making just as much noise as the horse does. Notice he won't put down his car to ride the horse though.

He was kissing the horse on the nose over and over for some reason???

Completed Yarn Bugs!

2007-11-27T21:31:00.000-08:00

The Far Out Yarn bug

The real Bug Yarn Bug

The Polar bear yarn bug

And a random picture Taylor took that I am still not sure how it got on here?????

Chomper!!

2007-11-24T22:48:00.000-08:00

Take a look at this mouth full of teeth - OUCH! (Taylor can testify to that). So compared to some of the other Blog sites I visit - we are very amateur photographers - ok we don't even claim to be good, but what can we day - we still have fun doing it.

Happy Thanksgiving!!! The only way we can get Chase in posed picture is to hold him upside down - then he thinks it's a game and will play along. I am wanting to get the kids pictures taken together, but I think they will all end up being of Taylor because Chase hates the camera. Maybe we will try it anyway.

This was the first picture we tried and Chase was trying to get down the whole time. Taylor couldn't even hold him anymore so we reverted tot the upside down version in the previous picture - whatever works! As you can see the weather was beautiful on Thanksgiving!

Taylor, Cassidy and Grammy making their Thanksgiving day crafts. They made yarn bugs - they turned out so cute and they were pretty fun to make too.

BOOOO!

2007-11-03T23:24:00.000-07:00

Happy Halloween

So here we are carving pumpkins that actually came out of our garden. We had 3 big enough to carve and about 8 small one for decoration - which I carved anyway! It was a fun night. As you can see Taylor was prepared with her apron - the rest of us just went for it.

Chase and I went to Walgreens and he bought his first candy collecting pumpkin. He loved carrying it around that day. If he only knew that the best was yet to come.

Yes, Chase was a Dinosaur. I thought it was great because he would stay warm with the head covering and all. He had issues with having purple paws - for some reason he just make them work to pick up any of the candy (they actually folded back so he could use his hands again). Chase loved trick or treating. He got to go with the big kids. Taylor and her friends would take him up to the front door and them help him load his bucket with candy. He would get so excited about a candy bar that he would hold one in each hand and set his pumpkin down on the front step of the house and run away. That was all he needed - just one candy bar for each hand.

This picture is rare because he is actually sitting still and even looking at me. Sorry no pictures of Taylor yet. My camera was dying so my Aunt took the rest of the pictures - hopefully we will see them soon. She looked really good too as a Graveyard Fairy. Halloween is Taylor's favorite holiday. You get to dress up and no one can tell you not to.

The REMODEL!!!!!

2007-10-15T23:19:00.000-07:00

So we had the pleasure :0) of going to California last weekend to knock out the first wall in my sisters remodel project. Their kitchen now goes a few feet into the garage - giving them much needed space inside the house. It was kind of crazy, but Ryan did an awesome job. Ryan even rerouted some wiring without getting shocked (I believe that's a first). I love seeing the before and after - it's amazing what you can do to change a house.

This would be David (my Bro. in-law) hard at work (I believe this is first too)
HAHAHAHAHA!

Zachary wanted to help too. We found out he's pretty good with a hammer.

TAH-DAH!!! Here it is, the new wall. I can't wait to see it with counter and cabinets. I think they should leave the original bright green paint - what do you think?

Hungry - Hungry Hippo

2007-09-21T13:34:00.000-07:00

I need to apologize for the fuzziness of these pictures. Yes, it is the picture - your eyes are not really that bad! My camera does not want to focus all the time recently - which makes it very hard to get a good picture (I see a new camera in our future). Anyway, Chase was given this big purple Hippo by a friend of mine and he loves it. And "Yes" for all of those Moms out there wondering if these balls are all over my house. I even found one in the fridge today. It has been nice to have the purple hippo because we have had some rainy days so this has been great indoor entertainment.

Who slipped Chase the sleeping pill??

2007-09-21T13:33:00.000-07:00

I had to take these pictures for two reasons - 1st - it is just so darn cute and 2nd I could not believe he was actually asleep. Chase is not know around here for his sleeping. He goes, goes, goes until you put him to bed - he never just falls asleep of his own free will. This was a Sunday afternoon right after church (I guess 3 hrs. of church wore him right out). I picked him up out of the highchair and put him to bed - where he stayed for over an hour. Don't you wish it could be this easy everyday!!!!!!

Wake me - I must be dreaming.....

2007-08-31T16:40:00.000-07:00

Chase's debut in the Bellingham Herald - We went to the fair the middle of August and all Chase wanted to do the ENTIRE time was sit on the tractors. No rides, No animals, No food - just sit on the tractors and of course add his own engine side effects the whole time. He is actually sitting on my lap right now saying- Whoa, Whoa and making engine noises just from looking at the picture. I see tires and metal and grease in his future :0) oh ya - my Mom was not happy about having her picture in the paper.

Big Fish

2007-08-31T16:20:00.000-07:00

Here is too Taylor's last year of elementary school. Can you believe it??? 5th grade and then on to Middle School next year. She was lucky enough to get the Teacher she wanted and have her Friends in her class. She is pretty excited. Chase,Cassidy and I got to go with Taylor to meet her teacher and see her classroom before school started -that was fun. The first days of school have gone really well so far.

Fun Fun Summer

2007-08-19T18:49:00.000-07:00

One of the families Ryan has done alot of work for just moved to Alaska. They left this John Deer tractor behind for Chase (when he can reach, it has peddles and a chain like a bike).
He absolutely loves it!!!!!

If you haven't seen the curls yet - I am sure you have heard about them. Her hair is so easy to do now with all the curls - Thanks Grandma Karen.

Taylor bought htis boa at the fair and Chase thinks it's funny to wrap himself up and run around the house with all the feathers flapping around. Let's hope he out grows this one :0)

Marine Park

2007-08-05T21:08:00.000-07:00

We decided to spend the evening at Marine Park soaking up the sun and the wonderful view. Chase was in Heaven because he had a beach full of rocks to throw (his new favorite thing). It was a gorgeous night. We stayed just about till sundown - just laying on the grass and throwing rocks - what a wonderful saturday night!!!

I htought the water was cold but Chase did not seem to mind. If you noticed no pictures of Taylor lately - she is still in Utah with Grandma and Papa Bear. We get to pick her up this Tuesday - I miss her tons!!!!!!

Gotta love the hair - he needs the top trimmed again, but it was fun to have it spiked for the day.

Sand in the City~

2007-08-05T21:05:00.000-07:00

We heard about an event in Bellingham called Sand in the city. It is a sand sculpture competition- amateur and master classes. So we thought we would go check it out. It was small but fun. They had big sand boxes for the kids to play in - Chase thought that was great.

Ryan wishes we were out in the Kayak and not sitting on the beach. Maybe next year!

Things that make you go hmmmm....

2007-07-31T22:43:00.000-07:00

What is on that dog?

(we were playing with silly string and kept missing Chase but managed to hit the dog a few times- oops)

I have never heard so many engine noises come out of one little boys mouth than when he got to ride on Papa's 4 wheeler. Chase sat behind Ryan and put his arms around his waist and never stopped smiling - I don't think my garage is big enough for the two of them.

Won't my Daddy be so proud of me????

2007-07-31T22:41:00.000-07:00

So what do you think is it me?

Chase has discovered Taylor's dress up clothes - he mostly likes the hats :-)

Tag - I'm it

2007-07-23T14:56:00.000-07:00

I've been tagged to share 7 random facts/habits about myself. At the end of the post, you can tag your friends by listing their names. Also, remember to leave them a comment letting them know they've been tagged.

Let's see - 7 random facts - Here we go:

1. I hate water (lakes, ocean, etc.), but I love the rain.
2. I would love to work with exotic animals.
3. I want to learn to belly dance (probably not in this lifetime though)
4. I would rather be cold than hot!!!!!!!!!
5. I love to travel (maybe that's the whole Gypsy/Belly dance thing?)
6. I am very competitive.
7. I love anything peanut butter and chocolate

I think everyone I know that blogs has already been tagged except for maybe Kelly B.- if you are out there go for it :0)

Keeps me laughing

2007-07-22T13:14:00.000-07:00

So we decided to wean Chase from his bottle and went straight to the gallon. Just Kidding - although he did have fun drinking and pouring the water down the front of himself - I don't think he is ready for the gallon yet.

He carried this empty water jug around for hours -who knows????

Daddy left his opened Twix candy bar on the side of the couch.

All I could hear was MMMMMMMMMMMM.

To bad you can't fill the inside of a Twix with green beans -then maybe he would eat them too.

Fun Presents

2007-07-22T13:12:00.000-07:00

Grandma Susan and Grammy got Talyor a charging/speaker setup for her IPOD. Now we just have to figure out how it all works!

Check out the new kicks - Grandma Karen and Papa Bear sent Taylor money to buy these Heelies that she has been dieing for. She did about kill herself at first wearing them but now I must admit she is getting pretty good.

Is it real?

2007-07-22T13:10:00.000-07:00

Ryan and I got Taylor an IPOD Nano for her birthday. When she opened it she screamed and then asked if it was real? and then if it was all hers or does she have to share it? It took awhile to convince her it was hers and yes it was real!

This is her latest Webkinz. They are stuffed animals that come with a passcode so you can log onto the computer and take care of them (feed, bath, house, etc...) It's kind of crazy, but she has two of them now and is really enjoying them. Some of her friends have them too and you can actually logon and play games together.

What will they think of next.

Taylor and her friends outside of the restaurant.

Happy 10th Birthday Taylor

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

Taylor invited three of her friends to go to dinner and a Movie for her birthday. It was fun!

This is probably the only time Chase throughout the entire meal. Let's just say that this will be his last meal out for a llllooooonnnnnggggg time.

Tah - Dah I'm 10!!!!!!!

Jelly fish crazy

2007-07-13T23:00:00.000-07:00

This was my favorite exhibit at the Aquarium. They had Jelly Fish in these bright blue tanks - they were so bright almost a glowing neon - I'm sure they don't look quite like this in the Ocean.

I can't remember the name of this one - it was something about a crazy hat -which it kind of looks like.

Don't you love these?????

I think they look like tiny little UFOs out in space.

Butterfly World

2007-07-13T22:58:00.000-07:00

Maybe they will think I'm a flower if I hold very still in my bright red polka dotted dress!

FYI: I love Tigers! So this Butterfly is sooooo Cooool!

It worked - they do like my polka dotted dress.

Vancouver Aquarium

2007-07-13T22:55:00.000-07:00

I decided that this summer we were going to finally go visit some of the places I have wanted to go and just never have. One of the first on my list was the Vancouver Aquarium. It turned out to be a great sunny day at the aquarium. Just before this picture a Dolphin jumped behind us and Chase about jumped out of my arms and then started crying (I don't think he was expecting anything to come out of the water). After he realized what the Aquarium was all about he really had a fun time. We even talked Grammy into going with us.

Chase didn't seem to care about the Sea otter swimming behind him.

Paging Dr. Chase............

Chase carefully preps. for surgery on a Harbor Seal (stuffed of course).

Every little boy needs a Tonka truck

2007-07-12T16:03:00.000-07:00

I just couldn't resist the 60th Anniversary Tonka Truck. Once Chase saw this at the store and started to make motor sounds I knew I was had! As you can see he loves to haul himself around in it. The truck actually has a metal dump bed (remember when the entire thing was metal -my brother ran his through our sliding door -fun times) So I thought this was cool that it had any metal on it at all - most of them are plastic now a days. It's nice to buy a toy that he actually plays with more than the pots and pans.

Now all I need is a garage!

What do think about a 4" lift????

Maybe next year :0)

Mt.Baker July 1st

2007-07-07T20:45:00.000-07:00

My brother was visiting from California and so we drove up to Mnt. Baker. We should have brought our snow shoes. The rode is not even open to the top yet.

Tanya and Chase. Chase didn't like walking in the snow - well I guess you could say he didn't mind walking in the snow it was the falling in the snow that he didn't like.

Like Father like Son. Out of everything up there Chase managed to find the huge snow cats. He actually licked a tire - OK maybe that isn't like his Father or is it??? :-) (he has a thing with tires lately).

Boulevard Park

2007-07-07T20:41:00.000-07:00

We could not have asked for more perfect weather this week. We took a long walk down the pier at Blvd. Park in Fairhaven and then of course went for a piece of Cheesecake at Calaphone MMMMMMMMMM!

The tide was way out so there were tons (literally) of crabs when you turned the rocks over.

Jessica (cousin), Julia (cousin) and Taylor all in brown shirts - weird!

More room

2007-06-30T23:41:00.000-07:00

Taylor's windows with beaded doorway coverings - way cool!

Her new desk area-

it has yet to been seen if there will actually be homework done on this desk or if it is just a knick knack holder.

o.k. I like the lights -

Chase wants to rip them down every time we turn them on, but for now they are kind of fun. I had a lot of fun doing her room and OH MY was she excited when she got home - she didn't stop screaming for at least 5 mins. It was well worth all the late nights.

Taylor's big surprise

2007-06-30T23:30:00.000-07:00

!!!!!!TA -DAH!!!!!!

While Taylor was at camp this last week I took creative liberty to decorate her room alittle. She loves the beach and wanted to bring some of that indoors - so here is what we came up with. First her sleeping area - Hawaiin floral with bright stripey bed, finished off with a grass bed skirt.

This is her book case that we just organized and put some pictures on.

I was up late and thought, what the heck I will paint a picture to hang on her wall. Something special from me in the room (not too bad for midnight)

Laundry Help or Laundry Hinder????

2007-06-30T23:28:00.000-07:00

How can you ever say no to those big blue eyes!

It wasn't me Mom I promise.....

Yes, if you haven't noticed by now- Chase has underwear on his head. He kept stealing Taylor's underwear off the couch while I was trying to fold and put them away. Taylor was at camp and could not defend herself - so we had fun! Chase was running down the hall with the underwear on his head and turned around when I called him and fell into the box - what a nut!

I am glad to say that he finally gave up the underwear and moved on to something else.

Hi HO, HI HO, it's home from camp we go.......

2007-06-30T23:24:00.000-07:00

She made it all week and not one phone call home! She had a blast and wants to go again next year. They did too many activities to even list. She came home stinky and her voice is almost gone - that spells a good time when your 9 :0) The camp is right on the lake so water activities everyday - we're talk'in Ski boats, canoes, Kayaks, water trampolines, 15' jumps onto big inflatable bouncy blow up things, they even camped outside on an island for a night. She is definitely pooped tonight. Chase was so excited to see her. He just stared for a minute and then wanted her to hold him the rest of the morning. He played with her all day in her room. Where ever Taylor was there was Chase right behind her. Taylor even keeps a basket of his toys in her room so he has stuff to play with when he is in there. She is so good to him!!!!!! I am so glad to have her home - We missed her so much. What a great way to start your summer vacation! She was out of School Thursday and at camp on Sunday.

Big bear hugs from Dad!

Grandma Susan, Taylor and Chase! I am smiling behind the camera - isn't that the way it goes for Moms??????

This one's for you Jen!!!

2007-06-25T21:43:00.000-07:00

A few years ago (I won't say how many) I flew my sister Jenni into Seattle for her 30th B-Day. We stayed the night in Seattle and then went to Oprah's live your best life conference. It was a blast!!!! Dove is a huge sponsor of Oprah (thank goodness this was before their whole naked campaing idea) anyway, Dove had the T.V. you see behind us and you could type in what ever you want and then take a picture. So ours said, "Beauty is Sisters"- oooohhhhh how sweet. I wanted to write - Beauty is a horse, but Jenni wouldn't let me (Black Beauty, get it???) I just came across this picture the other day and had to post it for the world to see :0) Maybe we will get to do this again someday!!!!! Love you Jen!

I was just having fun with this one......Jenni had such a, "It wasn't me", smile - that I thought a Halo was perfect, although the horns aren't really me at all (haha).

2007-06-23T23:33:00.000-07:00

Chase and Taylor love to play with his Race track he got for his Birthday. He thinks it is so funny that the van in the blue row goes so slow - he puts that one on the track and then gives it a good push.

Both my babies are growing up so fast. Taylor will be 10 in July and Chase is already 1 - my how time flies when your having fun.

Move over Donald Trump! Taylor is quite the Entrepreneur. In fourth grade they teach the children about economy and the value of money. You spend a few months earning "school money" and then on one of the last days of school the students get to hold a student store and sell their goods (supply and demand) Taylor and Grandma Karen finger knitted scarves, Grandma Susan helped with homemade dog biscuits and then she added a few more treats and things to her store. She had pricing signs and displays - she even dressed up for the event (surprise- surprise) like a real store owner would. She just cracks me up - I can't wait to see what she does with her life -the skies the limit with this one!

Taylor is heading off to camp tomorrow for a week. She is attending a Christian camp on the lake in Bellingham with Two of her friends from school. They get to swim, rock climb, ride horses, sleep in cabins and just have tons of fun. We will miss her, but I hope she has a great experience. Maybe I will take this opportunity to clean out her room, sssshhhhhh don't tell.

Karate Graduation

2007-06-23T23:21:00.000-07:00

What an exciting night! Taylor has been taking Kenpo Karate classes since last October - tonight was her graduation up to her Orange belt. She says she wants to go all the way to Junior Black Belt (takes 4 yrs.) I hope she sticks to her goal. She has been practicing her handstands and can almost out stand the boy that has been able to hold his the longest so far. Watch out Alex hear comes Taylor!!!!!
Yes, Chase must first taste the belt to make sure it is authentic :0)

Run to the Border

2007-06-13T21:57:00.001-07:00

Grandma Taylor and Kandice (Taylor's friend) at the finish line of their 5K run to the border.

Taylor has been training for about 3 months two days after school each week with a group of girls from the YMCA so they could participate in the Blaine - Run to the Border. It was a blast - We are so proud of her. It was awesome to watch her run across that finish line with Grandma cheering her on.

Grandma Susan, Chase, Grandma Karen, Papa Bear and Taylor.

(yes, it rained all day)

Bennett Family

Summer Sampler.........

Summer Sampler......

Back from Girls Camp!

Family times in Utah

More New Mexico Fun

New Mexico

Musik Garten

No More Monkeys Jumping On the Bed.........

More Taylor pics..............

More Taylors pics.

Random pics.................

Family Update - Our move to Utah

Meet Kimmi Kitty

Thanksgiving Point

Twinkle Toes.............

Taylor's Going Away Party

White Christmas

Lets hope this is not a sign of future occupation...

YES - THEY EVEN HAVE A PILLOWCASE

Gotta love Dr.Suess...........

Lynden Light Parade

Who would have thought....................

More Twilight adventures...................

Leaving on our adventure-

XOXOXOXO

It's all in the box......................

~~~~~ 6 Random Facts ~~~~~

Trick or Treat

Pumpkin Results

BOO

A few thoughts for your day -

Flash Back

Tub Time

Picasso..........

Labor Day

1st Day of Middle School

Chase and the Frog

SHE DID IT!

Camp Firwood 2008

Happy 11th Birthday

My Favorite Things

Bucket Head

Tub Time

Jello Flag!

99 Bottles of Jam in the Kitchen.........

5th grade Science Fair

MO Presents

It's not so Terrible being 2.........

Down on the farm

Can you spell TROUBLE?

Fun with Rainbows

The unexpected nap

Amtrak to Seattle

HAPPY EASTER!

Dinosaur Field Trip

OOPS!

Heart Strings

Happy New Year

Mount Baker

Christmas 2007

All in a days work

What does a horsey say?????

Completed Yarn Bugs!

Chomper!!

BOOOO!

The REMODEL!!!!!

Hungry - Hungry Hippo

Who slipped Chase the sleeping pill??

Wake me - I must be dreaming.....

Big Fish

Fun Fun Summer

Marine Park

Sand in the City~

Things that make you go hmmmm....

Won't my Daddy be so proud of me????

Tag - I'm it

Keeps me laughing

Fun Presents

Is it real?

~ 6 Random Facts ~