Purnells Making Memories

Summer Trip to Walt Disney World May 2011

2011-07-11T10:43:00.000-07:00

3rd Day....

Tree Lady....I wish I would have been able to catch the look on Levi's face when he saw her. It was an expression of total amazement...jaw dropped....mouth opened...big ol eyes...it was great!

Tree of Life...

Check out the detail on this puppy....it's astonishing...

Mount Everest was one of the kids favorite rides!!

Playing on the drums

Mickey and Minney in the Animal Kingdom Parade

Donald and some other characters in the parade

The Gorillas at the Park were fun to watch the male gorilla in front of the younger male seemed really annoyed with all of the people that were there watching him. He looked like a grumpy old man...haha! He was a good sport!

Rhinos and African Cattle....The cattle horns were HUGE!!

The big dirt mounds are actually African Fire Ant Hills. We were pretty Amazed at the size of the hills that the ants can create.

4th Day and Last Day Magic Kingdom

Meeting Sleeping Beauty...Kimmi was Bashful... :)

Cinderella

Meeting Belle....The kids really enjoyed meeting the Princesses

Caleb and Kimberly....great buds!

This was when we were leaving Walt Disnet World Resort after four magical days. Taking this trip was truely a wonderful blessing in our lives. This photo was taken on my 28th birthday!!! It was great to spend the day with my family. We decided to go back to the Magic Kingdom so that Kimberly could go and met the Princesses. After meeting them we went to the gift shop and Kimberly picked out a Minnie Mouse play set. We then went to lunch out on the padio at the Lady and the Tramp Resturant, which was absolutely delicious!! We ate lunch during the right time because the Magic Kingdom Parade happened while we were eating and we had great seats Kara and I ended up taking the kids a little bit closer to met and see some of their favorite characters. It was hot but we had so much fun! We got to met and see alot of the classic disney characters. There was of course Mickey and Minnie Mouse, Cinderalla and the Prince, the step mother and the step sisters, the mice, Beauty and the Beast, Mary Poppins, Alice and Wonderland, Ariel, Snow White and the Seven Dwrafs, Princess and the Frog amoung many other charcters. After the parade we went to the shops and got a couple things to bring home and then we were off on the road for a three hour drive back to Bonita Springs back to the Steiks house. When we got there Glen and I left to go to dinner. He wanted to end my birthday by taking me out to a nice dinner. We ended up going to P.F. Changs. They have a delicious menu. I had the best birthday this year and I couldn't have asked for more.

This was a cool power line that we saw leaving Disney

Levi and Kimberly Zonked after leaving Walt Disney

Levi loves his books....

2011-07-11T09:52:00.000-07:00

Every night before Glen and I go to bed we always check on the kids, re-tuck them in and give them a kiss goodnight. A few months ago I was doing this routine and this is what I saw ...... Levi loves to read and here are some of the books that he was looking at that night.

Kids Preschool Performnce

2011-07-07T15:05:00.000-07:00

The kids had an end of the year preschool program with Challenger. Glen wasn't able to come to because he a had final that was at the same time that the kids had their performance. Their Aunt Corinne and cousin Wrangler were able to come and watch them, which was great! The kids sang different songs from God Bless America, Vowel Song, Jet song (were they sounded out the letters that spelled JET, it was really cute :) and they did a Caterpillar song where the kids sang that they turned into butterflies and they waved colored fabric.
After the performance we went with Corinne and Wrangler to get Costa Vida, took our food to go and then went and ate with Elaine Corinne's mom at her work out in Meridian. Most of the images of the kids performance are on video, but here are a couple photos.

Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure Scentsy Fundraiser

2011-04-06T21:16:00.000-07:00

For the month of April my team member Gwen Couch and I have put together an ONLINE Fundraiser for the Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure for Breast Cancer Awareness. I've posted this on facebook, made fliers, cards, have sent out e-mails, and Scentsy invitations and now I'm putting it on my blog. I really am hoping that people will take the moment to read this and even participate with the fundraiser if they can.

We all know someone who has been affected in some way by Breast Cancer or who is suffering from it right now. Through research, education and awareness we can STAND together in fighting the battle against breast cancer.

On April 16th in Meridian Idaho at the Courtyard Merritt (Off Overland and Eagle Rd.) we will be having a Susan G. Komen Fundraiser Event. (The Fundraiser will also be opened DURING THE WHOLE MONTH OF APRIL AND YOU CAN ORDER ONLINE TO HELP WITH THE PROCEEDS FOR BREAST CANCER AWARENESS) I hope that you will take the time to participate with this fundraiser that will help so many around the world that are in need of a CURE.

If you are not able to come on the day of the fundraiser or you live out of town or in Canada you can still help by going to www.kathypurnell.scentsy.us or www.gwencouch.scentsy.us under "My Opened Parties" there will be the link that you can click on for the Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure Fundraiser Scentsy Event. We want this event to be as successful as it can be, but that can't happen without YOUR HELP!

Live in the Treasure Valley or surrounding areas and are interested in how you can become more involved? Join our team "The Tater Ta Tas" You can register to be on our team at: http://www.komenboise.org/.

100% of commissions from this Fundraiser will be donated to the Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure Cause!! We encourage everyone that is invited to this event to forward this message to at least 25-75 of your family and friends. (You can invite more) We are trying to get as many people involved with this fundraiser as possible so that we can help the women and men who have, are or will fight with this battle. TOGETHER WE CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE!!!

April is also Autism Awareness and Scentsy has created a “Piece By Piece” Warmer for Autism Awareness. 100% of the proceeds will be donated to Autism Awareness!

Mother’s Day and graduations are coming up and what more can you do than to get the ones you love a Great Gift through Scentsy and Be Helping in Some Great Causes.

I hope that this Spring you are finding joy and happiness.

Happenings for the Year 2011... Challenger School

2011-03-24T22:07:00.000-07:00

During the last few month in 2010 Glen and I had discussed putting Kimberly and Levi into preschool. We decided that was what we were going to do so I started looking around the Eagle area to check on prices. For some reason Challenger keep coming into my mind and so I decided that I would go and check out both of the campuses that they have here in the Treasure Valley. I first went down to the Challenger off of Bloom and State Street and talked with Miss Lara there. It was a very nice school and they had an excellent program. I also checked out the school off of Chinden and Linder, but this time I was able to take the kids as well as Glen during school hours. We were met by Miss Karen the Director at the school. There was something about Miss Karen that just stood out, it was like her contenance shone, seriously! As we walked around she discussed with us what the students do during the day and the academic achievement that the children have that go there. We were extremely impressed with the classroom structure and the way we saw the teachers interact with the students. When you walk down the hallways you are able to look into the classroom through a double sided mirrored window with out disturbing the students or the teachers. When we were there we saw all of the students completely engaged with the instruction of what the teacher was going over with her class. The art that was on the wall that was done by the three year class looked like art that was done by an eight or nine year. In the preschool classroom they give the students recognition when the students know all of the alphabet including recognizing each letter and the sounds that they make, once the students have done this they get there alphabet crown. They also give recognition for blending sounds, they celebrate half birthdays with a special get to know you sheet. The children also bring in pictures from home of baby pictures and photos of their families. The child go around the room saying what they like about each child and then the half birthday child gets to go and pick a prize from the chest box. When they do this they invite the parents to come in to take pictures or record. It's a pretty neat experience for the kiddos and the parents. Kimberly and Levi have had their half birthday celebrations. (Once I find my camera I'll post pictures)
Things that Kimberly and Levi have learned while they have been at Challenger is:
* They are starting to read
* Can do simple basic math, adding and subtracting, counting to 100
* They are learning some Spanish
* Their art skills are becoming more developed
* Writing Skills are improving
* Writing basic words as well as some complex words
These are just a few of the things that they are learning right now. We are so glad that we made this discussion to have them to go Challenger School for preschool I really believe that it was something that they needed. Before we enrolled them into preschool I remember talking to Kimberly and asking her of she was excited to go to Kindergarten in the fall, her response was, "No Mom...not really." I asked her why. She said, "Because I'm afraid that the other kids will be mean to me." As a Mom hearing your little girl say this it just broke my heart and confirmed to me even more that the preschool experience will help her have a more smooth transition into kindergarten this fall. Glen and I feel that this has been a positive experience so far that we are both extremely happy with.
Kimberly and Levi are in the same class and so far it has been going great and they really enjoy going to class together. Levi even has his first preschool girlfriend, "Savaya". He is so cute during Valentines Day they were able to make a special Valentine for who ever they wanted to (Who do kids normally make the valentines for...? their parents or grandparents...right?) nope not Levi he made a special valentines day card just for Savaya and he was determined to give it to her and he did :) Just the other day at Suzie Q's Childcare he made Savaya a totem pole art project with glitter glue on it and he let me know that it was for Savaya and no one else. Boy are we going to have to watch out!!
Kimberly is doing great! Today she came home with her blending badge and is going to start coming home with reading books. That's a Great milestone! As parents we couldn't be more happier for our children!

Do you know what you are eating!?!?!

2011-02-20T18:59:00.000-08:00

I saw this article on yahoo today and thought that I would share it along with everyone. Makes you think twice before putting what you think is healthy into your month. Check it out...

http://shine.yahoo.com/channel/food/10-dirty-fruits-and-veggies-2451593/

On the 12th Day of Christmas...

2010-12-31T10:01:00.000-08:00

The last day. Our family loved the message that the family that has been doing The 12 Days of Christmas left for us on the last night. It was testimonies of Jesus Christ from the president of the Church and other leaders. We decided to save this and read on Christmas morning to our kids. Glen and Levi started a fire and we got our hot cocoa and read beautiful testimonies of our Savior. These messages helped to bring a stronger spirit of Christmas to our home. We are so thankful and have felt so blessed by this kind act of service. I don't know who did this, but I am so thankful for the time that the family took out of their day to bless our family this Christmas season. We love the little plaque as well and I am excited to hang it up next Christmas Season.

On the 11th Day of Christmas...

2010-12-31T09:48:00.000-08:00

This was perfect!! We ended up getting a bag of mini marshmellows and hot cocoa (which our family loves in the winter!!) I didn't get a picture of the orginal items that the family left on our doors step because it was gone the next morning, we used it all up, so I grabbed some out of our pantry for the picture. So Good!!!

On the 10th Day of Christmas...

2010-12-31T09:42:00.000-08:00

This was perfect for those movie nights that we have together as a family. We put on a movie and started popping popcorn. What could be a better combination?!? :) We all snuggled in warm cozy blankets and watched some of those Christmas classic cartoons.

On the 9th Day of Christmas...

2010-12-31T09:29:00.000-08:00

On the 9th night we got... :)

On the 8th Day of Christmas...

2010-12-20T22:08:00.000-08:00

Tonight when we heard the knock at the door Levi was so excited to run and open the door as well as yell, "Come in..." I guess that he has picked that up from me because if I know who is at the door I say that from time to time. I think that it is time to stop saying that and just go and answer the door. Tonight we got some more goodies!! :) We got a bag full of carmels, as well as a super cute story called, "Grandma's Red Wagon". Both Glen and I hadn't heard it before, but we really enjoyed reading it to the kids. Levi and Kimberly were getting ready for bed but when they saw what the treat was, they of course wanted some. I opened the bag and let them have some before bed. This has been such a fun time and we look forward to the last few days! :)

On the 7th Day of Christmas...

2010-12-20T15:49:00.000-08:00

On the 7th day we recieved 2 boxes of Swedish fish. Levi when he saw what we recieved said, "Mom...I know how to open these." I then asked him if he wanted some and he was like... YA!!! So FUN!! We've been getting lots of goodies :)

On the 6th Day of Christmas...

2010-12-20T15:44:00.000-08:00

I was out running errands the during the night when this 6th day came, but when I got home Glen told me that the kids where on the back of the couch peeking out the window with the blinds opened waiting for the family to come and drop off the gift. I guess they would go back and forth looking out the window. After a little while of doing this one of the kids said, "DAD....there's a bottle of rootbeer outside on the sidewalk." Glen's favorite!! We plan on having rootbeer floats sometime this week! Yummo!! The little stinkers, peeking outside :)

On the 5th Day of Christmas...

2010-12-20T15:36:00.000-08:00

On the 5th day we recieved a can of golden pinapple rings. Our family has loved the 12 Days of Christmas being done. Kimberly and Levi anxiously wait for that door bell to ring so they can go out and get what was left. It is so much fun to watch the excitement that has been brought to their eyes this Christmas season through the service of another family. The stories have been nice to read in the evening and have helped to bring an extra touch to the spirit of christmas to our family this holiday season.

On the 4th Day of Christmas...

2010-12-16T22:01:00.000-08:00

Today Glen was getting ready to head out the door to take the movies back to the library, he opened the door just in time to see someone running away in a black coat. He said that he quickly looked down and saw the gift of day 4 on the step. He shut the door and waited a few minutes before he left. He told me that he didn't want to ruin the fun for the family that is doing the 12 Days of Christmas on us this year and we enjoy the fun of having it be a mystery. They brought us two boxes of candy and a dollar for the "Red Box". The story that they brought tonight was "Three Trees". It a great story and has come to be one of my favorites. We will enjoy the candy and movie tomorrow night with our babies.

Day:4

The 3rd Day of Christmas...

2010-12-16T21:48:00.000-08:00

The third day of Christmas we were left a can of tomatoe soup and a story called "The Gift of the Magi" by O Henry. We read that story to the children tonight as well and they enjoyed it. This soup that our mysterious family left for us will sure come in useful this holiday season.

Day:3

On the 2nd Day

2010-12-16T21:42:00.000-08:00

The night that we were in the hospital when Glen came home for the evening he found a package of Dove candies, this note and a story "Under Santa's Cap". We read the story to the kids tonight and they enjoyed it while laughing through most of it. It's a cute Christmas poem!

Day:2

Home from the Hospital

2010-12-16T19:34:00.000-08:00

Levi has been home from the hospital for a day now and he is doing much, MUCH better! He was excited to be home when we got home and he was even more excited when he found out that Auntie Nicole was bringing over Mc Donald's. He wanted a hamburger, so that is what he got. Nicole got Kimberly and Levi a happy meals and Glen and I big macs with fries and a root beer for Glen. (of course) We visited with Nicole for a little bit and then she had to go because Dash was out in the car sleeping. We were very thankful for the dinner that she brought, because I so exhausted from the night before to cook anything. We ate dinner, I gave Levi a bath and then we all went to bed. Levi was out right when he laid down and so was I.

This morning when I woke up Glen came in and said that Kimberly just threw up. Glen was a trooper and cleaned it up while I helped Kimberly. Levi was doing much better even though he is still really sick. Now I not only have one sick child, I have two. Kimberly was throwing up all day as well as having diarrhea really bad. I just checked her temperature and she had a low one of 99.8 so I gave her some ibuprofen.

Levi and Kimberly sitting on the couch eating popcicles.

We were blessed to have Corinne and Mom (Wendy,my mother-in law) come and bring us dinner.Aunt Corinne made taco's with all of the fixens. She also brought Superhero Popsicles with a set that included Ironman (which Levi loves right now!!) frosted animal cookies, coloring books for Levi (Ironman), Princess coloring book for Kimberly and many goodies for the kiddo's. Mom picked up Krispy Cream Donut's, an Ironman/Superman toy (that's what Levi likes to call it) and a pink ballerina Barbie for Kimberly. It was nice to see Corinne and Mom and we are very thankful for all that they have done for us. Dinner was Super Yummy and very filling. It was nice to have a real meal. :) I believe that my kids are on the mend and only hope and pray that what Kimberly had was a 24 hour bug, lets just say I DO NOT want her to get any worse.

When we came home last night we found out that my Grandma Lloyd had a stroke yesterday and she is in the hospital right now. We have also had other family who have been in the hospital this last week. Jandy and Cinda both lost their babies and had to have a D&C. They both are at home right now and are recovering well. Our thoughts and prayers are with a lot of family right now as different things are going on in all of our lives. We love our families and friends and are praying for each of them. Last night as I was tucking Kimberly into bed I asked her what song she wanted me to sing to her and she said, "The Wise Man and the Foolish Man". As I got to the end of the song where it say's,

"The rains came down and the floods came up

The rains came down and the floods came up,

and the house on the ROCK stood still."

I got really chocked up because of everything that has happened the last week with not only my family but my extended family as well. There has been a flooding of rain, but among the rain even when it has been pouring there has been an out pouring of blessings! I am so THANKFUL to know true principles of the gospel. I have felt that I have remained strong during everything that has gone on and I know that it has only been possible through the knowledge that I have of my Heavenly Father and his son Jesus Christ. As I talked to my dear friend Kristin on the phone today and told her everything that has happened she reminded me that the Lord won't give us anything that we can't handle. You know she is right, he won't and I know that to be true.

As I opened a Dove candy that someone who is doing the 12 days of christmas to us left on our door steps the night we were in the hospital on the inside of the wrapper it says,

"Enjoy the miracle of friendship."

I feel that Heavenly Father is sending an out pouring of tend mercies our way. I have seen new meanings to things that I have known for years. Like the last section of the primary song above and the affects that sayings in candy wraps can are having on me. As well as the true meaning of service and friendship. The friendships that I have are miracles. There are many of you who have touched and changed mine and my families life's only for the better. We love you! We appreciate you and we are so thankful to have you! I look forward to my kiddo's getting better and hope that they will both be well enough to enjoy Christmas in a few days. I wanted to say Thank you, Thank You, THANK YOU for the phone calls, the texts, the visits, the dinners, the gifts, the prayers and the love that each of you have given. We are so thankful for the miracle of friendship and love that we have recieved this holiday season!

Night at the Hospital

2010-12-16T14:19:00.000-08:00

This is a photo of Levi the morning after he was admitted into the hospital. Because he was so sick he was in a solitary confinement room were the nurses and doctors had to get all suited up with masks and coverings before they came into the room..

After everyone left from the hospital Glen stayed for a little bit but then needed to go so that he could get clothes for Kimberly because she was staying the night at my mom's house. He also needed to feed the horses and get to bed because he had three finals all back to back the nest day. The first final started Wednesday morning, it was from 8AM-10AM, second final was from 10:30AM-12:30PM and his last final was from 1PM-3PM.
Glen gave Levi a kiss, told him he loved him and then headed out. Levi laid down for a little bit, but had a hard time going to sleep. I think that he might have had a cat nap. It was around 11PM and he still wasn't asleep he said that he wanted to watch a movie but I was a little hesitate at first because I wanted him to go to sleep. After about five minutes of thinking it through, he is away from home, staying the night in a strange place, feels like crude, and has all of these cords hooked up to him I told him that if he wanted to watch a movie that it would be okay. He chose Bambi and we watched Bambi together. After the movie was over it was close to 1 in the morning and I asked Levi if he could try and go to sleep for me. He said that he would. During the night Levi was being monitored with his oxygen levels and they were mostly in between 92-94. Every now and then the machine would start beeping because it would go below 90 to 88 or 87. I was concerned because of the way that he was breathing. To me it just sounded like he was really struggling to get air down his passage way. I let the nurse know of my concern several times and every time she just keep saying he is just so congested, but his breathing is fine. She would listen to his chest and lungs and she said that they were okay, which was good. I understood that he was congested and couldn't breath through his nose, that wasn't the issue, he wasn't admitted into the hospital because he was congested, he was admitted because his throat was extremely swollen and his pediatrician was concerned about his breathing. I felt like I was trying to be patient with her and it was probably the same with her trying to be patient with me. I was just concerned for my little boy!! His breathing sounded to me HORRIBLE, like he needed help. But he was breathing, so that was good. Maybe they wanted him to be breathing on his own to make his lungs work, I don't know. I did ask what she meant by congested because she kept saying he is just so congested. I told her that I understood that he was congested, that wasn't my concern, my concern is the way he sounded when he took breaths, that was my concern. Levi ended up waking up in the middle several times and one time he needed to go potty really bad so I called the nurse that was caring for him and she came into help. She helped him out of bed and he went potty. I ended up helping her change the bed sheets because they were so soaked from his sweat, that they needed to be changed. She was really kind to get him a hospital children's gown because his shirt was soaked. She said that he was sweating so bad because his fever broke and it was his body reacting to everything. We got the bed all made and I tucked Levi back in. I tried to sleep the best that I could and not worry about Levi. His oxygen monitor would start beeping because his levels would go down to 87-88 and then they would go back up shortly after. I talked to the nurse again a few times about his breathing but she keep saying the same thing, that he was just really congested. She said that she could send in the respiratory therapist and I said that would be nice. The respiratory therapist finally came in at around 5 in the morning, and she said the same thing, "he is just so congested." YES I KNOW THAT!! MY GOODNESS LADIES....DO YOU BOTH NOT UNDERSTAND, THATS NOT WHAT I AM CONCERNED ABOUT!!!.....LISTEN TO HIM!!! HE SOUNDS RESTRICTED IN HIS THROAT!!. The respiratory therapist asked he snored at home and I told her that he didn't (because he doesn't snore at home) she then goes on to say that some children snore at home and it just sounds worst because he is congested. I felt like they didn't give a crap about what I was saying or feeling and that they were not listening to me. I just told you that he doesn't snore at home!!! Geesssh!!!! He was admitted because of the swelling in his throat. She said that her and his nurse were monitoring him closely and that I should contact them if I needed anything. I felt hat his nurse was concerened about my feelings some what, but she wasn't as concerned as I was.It was sad to see Levi the way that he was, but I again tried to go to sleep. At around 6:15-6:20 the monitor started beeping again but this time his levels didn't go back up, so the nurse came in and told me that she was going to give him oxygen. Finally at 6:30 in the morning he received that oxygen that I felt he needed all night. His levels immediately went back up and stayed at 96. Levi was up at 8 in the morning and he said that he was hungry so I ordered him pancakes, scrambled eggs and bacon with a banana, which is what he wanted. When the food came up I prepared his pancakes and he took one bite and his face started to get blotchy from him swallowing his food. He took one bit of his banana, one more bite of his pancakes and his face did the same thing. He told me that he didn't want anymore because it hurt so bad. I told him that he could try and eat some more at lunch time, but I wanted him to try and drink juice. The nurse brought in some Popsicles and he ate both of them, which was a good sign. They took him off the fluids from the IV because they wanted to see him eat and drink on his own, that would be the determining factor if he could go home or not. He had another Popsicles and drank some juice, which was a step in the right direction because I know that he was ready to go home. He asked me a few times, "Mom, when do we get to go home?" He was ready. I took a few pictures of him before breakfast, he was coloring and and wanting to be a little bit more active then he has been in the last week.

Levi thought it would be nice to watch a few movies while he was there. But before we watched the movies we played a few games of "GO Fish". We had fun playing it together and every time I didn't have a card that he needed he would say, "Oh MANN!" in his raspy little voice, because he would have to draw from the Go Fish pile. We played three or four games and he beat me every time, with out me trying to let him win. He thought it was fun to beat Mommy :) We watched the Bee Movie, Incredibles and The Grinch Who Stole Christmas. While we were watching these movies we had one of the doctors come in with some new resident doctors so that Levi could be their Teacher and allow them to look in his throat so they could see his tonsils. Dr. Thompson came in right after I ordered lunch for Levi and I, he looked in Levi's throat and said that his tonsils looked much better, still swollen with puss patches , but much better to the point where he could see a space in between his tonsils. YAY!! That haven't looked that well in a week! He wanted to see how Levi did with lunch and if he did well then he would allow Levi to go home later that afternoon. Levi had Mac and Cheese, broccoli and a chocolate shake. He ate probably 6-7 bites of his mac and cheese and a couple bites of brocilli and then he was done, but that was the most he had eaten in days. He drank probably a quarter of his chocolate shake off and on. But the Dr. Thompson gave the okay for him to be discharged.

As we were waiting we played a few more games of Go Fish and then Glen came to the hospital after his finals and he played a few games with us as well. We left the hospital at around 5:30PM.

I am so thankful that we went to the hospital because the fluids from the IV helped to hydrate Levi and the steroids helped the swelling in his throat to go down significantly. I know that the Lord has been with us and I am so thankful for all of the prayers in Levi's behave. Stephen went to the temple on Wednesday morning and put Levi's name in and I know that helped a great deal as well as all of the other prayers. I believe that we have family to be there to help support us through our ups and our downs. I believe that we need to inform our families when situations arise. When we were in the hospital and I was talking to Ashley she said that she was so thankful that we let them know about what was going on. She talked about a lesson that she just had on Sunday about the power of prayer in numbers and how we need heavens help in numbers and that families need to be close and situations like these make us stronger as individuals and as families. I am so glad that she said that to me, because I feel that it was something that I needed to hear. What she said is something that I will remember and will keep close to my heart. Levi was so excited to go home.

When we got home my good friend Nicole brought over dinner from McDonald's for the whole family. I am thankful for her service that she provided and appreciate it VERY MUCH! :) Sometimes I feel that it is hard to accept help from others, but I am so thankful and humbled by the service, love, prayers, dinners, and support that our family and friends have given to Levi, Glen, Kimberly and I.

Admitted into the Hospital

2010-12-15T11:10:00.000-08:00

After we came home from Dr. Garners we got the prescription that would help the swelling in Levi's tonils go down. After about an hour of being home Levi was out and fell asleep on the couch, but I noticed that his breathing seemed to be bad, almost as he was gasping a little bit for each breathe. I called Humphrey's office and had the oppurtunity to speak to her over the phone. She told that she would like to see him right away and so we were off to the doctors for a second time today. At Carrie Humphrey's doctors office Levi's vitals were low, his oxegon level was at 89-90 which concerned the nurse. After his doctor examined him she said that she feels that it would be best for Levi to admitted into the hospital, so she called St. Lukes in downtown Boise and admitted him in to stay over night. Here we are at the hospital again. They had to put in an IV because he was so dehydrated, for the steriods as well as other meds if they are needed. This time the IV experience was not nearly as dramatic. They numbed his hand with what they called a "J Shot" which isn't a shot at all but puts lydicane into the hand threw a force of air. There were three nurses there and once it came time for the IV to go in, Levi sat on Glen's lap and I read him a story about Elmo and friends. The nurse put in the IV and I subconiously waited for him to scream, but.......he didn't scream, twich, move, nothing. I was so proud of him. He is one brave little boy. I know that I hate IV's and the last time I had one I had silent tears. After the were done taping the IV down and his hand on to the board (so that it would stay straight) the nurses let Levi pick out a toy from their toy bucket. He picked a 35 piece Nemo puzzle. Once he got back to the room Glen opened the puzzle for him and he had it put together in less than 10 minutes. One of the nurses brought him in a coloring book, crayons and some toy cars that he could play with.
I just wanted to say that through out this process we have told a few people about Levi's condition, but tonight I felt that it would be approperiate to inform all of the immediate family so that they could pray for him. I feel overwhelmed with being blessed with an AMAZING family. Allan was one of the first to respond to the text that I sent out and he was very concerned for Levi as well as Glen and I. Corinne, Ashley and Donny and Ann also all responded are were very concerned. We were blessed to have the company of Donny and Ashley for a little bit and enjoy their company while we were visiting. They brought Levi a balloon, twisty crayons, notebook, and a go fish card game. They also brought me a People magizine and some M&M's. We appreciate everything that they do for us and we are very thankful to have such close family that can be there and support each other. My mom, dad, Stephen and kimberly came over to visit as well. Levi told me that he wanted to see Kimberly before he went to sleep. It was nice to have family with us during this struggle in Levi's life and Glen and I appreciate the love, prayers and concern for our son.

Update on Levi

2010-12-14T11:16:00.000-08:00

We took Levi into Dr. Garners office this morning for him to be seen and the doctor check out his throat. Levi is still extremely swollen and if the swelling doesn't go down then they will consider surgery to remove Levi's tonsils. Right now at this point his tonsils are to big to do anything, so Dr. Garner gave Levi a prescription that would help with the swelling go down. The nurse is going to call and see how Levi is doing and he has a follow up appointment to see Dr. Garner in a couple of weeks. As for now Levi is resting, he sleeps a lot and he is able to have all of the Popsicles that he wants. Right now our goal is to get the swelling down, fever down and to keep him hydrated. Both Glen and I were really worried about him last night with his breathing and we set the alarm so that we could wake up to check on him. The doctors say that it will be a while before he start to really get to feeling back to his normal self. I glad that I am done with classes. I just want to be home taking care of little guy.

12 Days of Christmas...

2010-12-13T21:53:00.000-08:00

We have wanted to do the 12 days of Christmas on someone for the last few years, but it hasn't ever fallen into place for it to work out. With school being so busy by the time that we think of it again it is too late to start because we wouldn't get through all of the days. Well I really wanted to do the 12 Days of Christmas on someone this year, but with the recent sickness of Levi and the fact that we only a one car family now for a while I am at home taking care of my babies. Instead of us having the opportunity to bless the lives of a family this year with doing the 12 Days of Christmas someone is blessings our lives by doing the 12 Days of Christmas to us. To be honest it is humbling to have this done. We will take this time and allow this service to be ours this Christmas and feel the joy and love that others have to give to our little family, as well as teach our children that it is good to give service just as it is to except it to allow others the blessings of doing so.

I am going to take a picture of the things that are left on our step to document this Christmas experience.

DAY: 1

After a Doctor Visit and TWO Hospital Visits, Levi has.....WHAT?!?!

2010-12-12T23:03:00.000-08:00

Levi with his new teddy from the hospital, sleeping in his Ironman costume (of course) and the story of his illness.

On December 10, 2010 on a Friday evening I started to notice that Levi was sounding differently. I thought that maybe he might just be starting to get a cold and I wasn't to worried about it. On Saturday morning he sounded a lot worst and was complaining of his throat hurting so I looked in his throat with a flash light and his tonsils were HUGE with puss patches all over them. I decided to take him into the Primary Health that is near our house on Eagle and HWY 44. I was sitting at the desk up front filling out paper work, when he told me that his tummy wasn't feeling very good. We had luckily brought with us a throw up bag from my surgery a few months ago that the hospital gave to me. Needless to say he ended up throwing up in the bag and thankfully all of it went in the bag. I am so happy that it did because I know that I wouldn't have enjoyed cleaning it up and I am sure that the ladies working that day wouldn't have enjoyed it either. Since Levi throw up out at the front desk they were able to get us in right away, back into a room. The nurse took his temperature and he had a low one at 99.8 degree's F. They ended up swabbing his throat to test it for strep, but they said that it came back negative. The physician ended up giving him a prescription for amoxicillin and sent us home.
I ended up going out with some friends for lunch at the Olive Garden and when I came home I looked at Levi and his neck was HUGE. I told Glen that the swelling had gotten much larger from the time that I left until now. We decided that I would take him into the hospital to be check out. We got in right away. The nurses took his vitals and he seemed to be okay. His temperature was only at 99.1 which wasn't to high, but his throat was really swollen. Since his throat was so swollen they decided that they would need to give him a steroid shot. Before they gave him the shots they gave him a cute cuddly teddy bear, a coloring book and some crayons to help make him feel better. After they gave him his teddy bear he looked up at me and said, "Look mom... they gave me a teddy bear, I have a teddy bear now." He looked at the teddy bear and then gives it a big hug while saying, "I love this teddy bear." He is so sticken cute with some of the phrases that he says and is always so thankful for the things he receives. They ended up dividing the dose into two and giving him two shots one in each of his butt cheeks on his bottom. Needless to say the dose they gave him was the maximum amount that they could give to a four year. He did not like the shots and I had to hold him on my nap facing me while the nurses gave him the shots. They didn't have any band-aids by the bed, but they stopped the bleeding and put his pants and underwear back on. He insisted that he needed a band-aid because then it would make it better. I asked the nurse (Grandma Lue)if she could find him some. She found some normal band-aids and then got some stickers to put on top of the band-aid to make it fun for him. Lets just say that after the bands were on he felt much better and was asleep less than five minutes later. After a little cat nap of maybe 15-20 minutes he woke up screaming about his arm hurting. He just keep on saying, "My arm...it HURTS...IT HURTS...MY ARM....MOMMY MY ARM HURTS!!! It just broke my heart to hear him scream like that. One of the nurses came in to see what was the matter and I told her that his arm is hurting, but that I thought it might have just fallen asleep. She checked his neck and then his back to make sure that he wasn't having an allergic reaction to the steroids. When she was checking him she mention that he was really warm and I asked if they wouldn't mind rechecking his temperature. She checked his temp and it had spiked from 99.1 to 104.4 in less then an hour. As I mother that was scary to me because if his temperature got to high it could be a concern with brain damage. They didn't seem to concerned because he wasn't acting abnormal. I guess that children can have their temperature spike like that. After about three hours of being in the hospital they discharged us and we were able to go home. They wanted Levi to come back if anything had worsen and they wanted to see him on Sunday to make sure that his lymphoids hadn't become infected because of how swollen they were.
When we got home I asked Glen if he could give Levi a blessing, we ended up calling my dad to see if he was available to come and help. When my parents got to our house we got ready for them to give Levi a blessing. Glen asked Levi if he wanted Daddy to give the blessing or Grandpa. Levi said that he wanted Grandpa Lloyd to give it. My dad gave him a nice blessing that I will record later. My parents stayed and visited for a while and we all had hot coco to enjoy together.

On Sunday morning Levi seemed to be doing better. His throat was still swollen, and he had a low temp, but was up being active and playing. One of the nurses called from the ER to see how Levi was doing and I told her that he was doing better and that we probably wouldn't be coming in. She told me to call if anything changed. Later that evening after I gave Levi some amoxicillin his eyes started to water really bad, he just keep wiping them and complaining about them stinging. The his lips started to swell, he ears got really red, and he started to get blotchy red patch's on his neck. I called the ER and informed them of what was going on and they told me that I should bring him in right away. We called a friend to see if we could drop Kimberly off and she said that was fine. We ended up dropping Kimmi off at a good friends house Kara Stiek. When we got to the hospital they took his vitals, his heart rate was pretty high and his temperature was at 100.4. They ended up wanting to do an x-ray of his neck to make sure that there wasn't a mass that was pushing on his tonsils to make them swell more. As we were waiting to be taking back our nurse Mike put on the movie Racing Stripes for Levi. (He had started it yesterday, so he wanted to start the movie were we left off the night before) We watched the movie for about 20 minutes before they wheeled him off. I was able to stay in the room with a shield on while the technician took x-ray pictures of Levi's neck. Levi did a really good job standing very still while he took the pictures. We then went back to the room to wait for the results. While we had been at the hospital Levi eyes were draining so much that he had gone through a complete whole role of toilet paper to wipes his eyes and nose. He was able to enjoy a Popsicles, and a can of apple juice while we waited for the results from the x-ray. We had a couple of nurses come in and check Levi's vitals a couple of times. His fever had gone up to 101.8. One of the female nurses came in to tell us that she was going to need to put in an IV to get some blood from Levi because they needed to test him for mono and they wanted it there just in case they needed to give him some more meds. We finished watching Racing Strips and then we started it again so that Glen could see it from the beginning.

It soon came time for the nurses to prep Levi for the IV and they put some numbing cream on his arm and then put a clear medical tape on top of it, that Levi pocked at for a little bit. It was a squishy feeling that Levi though was cool to play with. I remember Levi laying down in the medical bed and then turning back to look at me, he then said, "Mom I had a surgery on my butt, just like YOU, one right here (as he gently pats his left butt cheek) and one over here (as he pats his right butt cheek)and now I just had one right here on my arm, just like you mom. He hadn't yet gotten the IV in, but the way he said that was so stinken cute!! I couldn't help but to chuckle a little and tell Glen what we said. We just let him think that the shots that he got the day before was his own little surgery. The nurses came in, turned on the light, we stopped the movie and I think that Levi could sense that something was going on because as they sat down and told him to was time to take the tape off he started to get a little bit scared. They took the tape off and then when they started to wipe off the cream he really started to freak out. He keep saying, "NOOOO....I DON'T WANT IT!!!! NOOOO!!! (little tears just came racing down his little red cheeks and face, as he tried his hardest to let them know that he did not want the IV) NOOOO!!!, HE SCREAMED...."PLEASE DON'T DO THAT .....PLEASE I DON'T WANT THAT....NOOOO....MOMMY....PLEASE.....NOOO!!!!" He turned his back to them and just held on to his little arm for dear life. He didn't want them to touch him at ALL!! He then laded on his stomach gripping his arm as tight as he could. Glen and I tired our best to reassure him that everything was going to be okay and that the nurses knew what they were doing. I told Levi to look at me and then said, "Mommy and Daddy are right here and everything is going to be okay. You need to turn over so the nurses can help you." "No, Mom I don't want too." It took everything I had to fight back the tears from streaming down my face because of the reaction from my son. I needed to be strong and I wished that I could take his place but I knew that he needed the IV. I told him that I was going to turn him over, but that I was there. I picked him up and turned him onto his back. One of the nurses grabbed his arm as the nurse putting the IV got ready. I told Levi to look at me and a second later it was in. They drew he blood that they needed and then he looked down at the IV and told the nurses that he wanted a band-aid to put on it. Everyone in the room kind of chuckled, because he wasn't concerned with the IV in his arm he was concerned about a band-aid. They ended up putting on a bright green wrap around the IV and his arm. After all of that he asked if he could have another Popsicle. They told him that he could have all of the Popsicles that he wanted, that he did a great job and was a brave little boy. After about an hour of waiting Dr. Wyatt came into the room and informed us that Levi was positive for Mono. They gave him a dose of steroids through the IV and then discussed with us that we needed to see Dr. Garner to have further treatment for his throat. We were discharged soon after. He was given a couple of prescriptions and we were told that he was to stop taking the amoxicillian. He has an appointment for tomorrow morning with Dr. Garner and we'll see what he says about the swelling in his throat. He has been resting pretty much the whole day. I haven't seen him sleep this long since he was a baby. I know that this isn't that most positive entry, but it is one that I felt I needed to record. I guess that Mono can last up to 50 days being contagious and that we just need to be extremely careful with him. One of the things that I won't forget about is Levi referring to his shots and IV as a "surgery". I just laugh every time that I think about it and the way that he said it with his little muffled voiced, just brings a smile to my face. I took a couple of pictures of him sleeping and you can see his eyes are still a little red, but they are much better from last night. I will definitely keep this situation updated with entries. The doctors and physicians that we saw have been absolutely wonderful!! Grandma Lue called this morning to see how Levi was doing today. I really appreciate their care and concern for him. I feel that they have been extremely professional and sensitive with our situation. I know that with prayers, faith and rest he will get better soon.

Almost DONE!!! & Heavens blessings upon us...

2010-12-12T22:44:00.000-08:00

The semester is almost over and we have been through quite a few challenges, but we have received some many blessings as well. Glen has been cramming hours upon hours of school and when I say that I am not kidding. He has been working on the Lego graphics drawing assignment that has completely consumed his life, as well as his other studying for his 5 classes and two labs that he is taking. For the last week or so he has been getting up at AM (if not earlier sometimes) and then he doesn't get to bed until like 1 or 2 in the morning. He is literally going ALL day non stop. He finally got the project done yesterday (December 11, 2010) at around PM in the evening. He had to print a whole bunch of papers that we might as well call it a book. He has two finals on Monday and then three finals all back to back in a row on Wednesday. I think that he might have a half an hour break in between each final, but then after that he is done for the semester!!! YAY!! He has worked really hard and deserves a nice break from all of that studying for a while, all though he does have work full time with the Research Department at Boise State University that will keep him busy. He needs to work 60 hours the first two weeks to catch up on some time from the semester. Glen only has three more semesters left and then he'll have his bachelors degree in Mechanical Engineering. We are excited for that time to come :) I am extremely PROUD of my husband!!! I know that he works really hard to get the best grades that he can and on top of that he still works extremely hard to be able to provide for the family.
With this semester it has been so busy, and we have hardly had time to breathe let alone do anything else. There was a month during the semester where we were concerned with making our mortgage payment. With my surgery I wasn't able to bring anything in for a month if not more than that and Glen took some time off to help me. November mortgage was coming up and we had maybe a few dollars in our bank account, not nearly enough to pay all the bills and mortgage. We needed to pay tithing and decided to do so, having faith that things would work out. The next day Glen received a call from Doug (from the Home Depot Window installs that Glen subcontracts for) he was calling to inform Glen about two jobs that he had coming up that he was wondering if Glen could get done that week on Thursday. I remember Glen calling me telling me that he just got a couple of windows jobs and that it would help bring in some money to pay for some of the mortgage. We felt blessed and excited that the Lord had heard and answered our prayers. Thirty minutes went by and Doug called Glen again saying that he just got one more window job for Glen that was scheduled on Saturday. With the last call that totaled three window jobs for the week. Glen was able to juggle his schedule around with school and work with Research to get the jobs done and still keep up with all of his responsibilities from school. About a week later when it was time for the mortgage to be paid, Glen got paid from the Home Depot for the recent window jobs that he did, totaling $795.00, well it just so happens that our mortgage is $795.00. We received an answer to our prayers with a temporal need to help keep a roof over our heads to the PENNY. Some people might say that it was just a coincidence and some what say that it happened out of sure luck. I don't believe that it was either. What I do know is that we have a Heavenly Father who knows us and the things that we need. I know that we were blessed from paying tithing and I am forever in debt to my kind and Loving Heavenly Father. I feel blessed to be a part of this gospel, to know of it's truths and to know that we have a Heavenly Father who knows us, our needs, desires, worries, wants and he loves us. What a great blessing it is to know these things in my life! I know that with faith all things are possiable and that when we pay tithing it is a great blessing that blesses us with both spiritual and temporal needs.

Summer Trip to San Diego Zoo: Part I

2010-11-15T15:05:00.000-08:00

I was just on here and I had my post all reading to publish when I accidently pushed a button on the key board and just like that.....everything I had typed out was GONE!! Oh technology, my relationship with you is a love/hate!!! There are time that you work so well for me and other times when you delet everything out of the blue that I worked so hard on. In attemps to repost here I am going to try it out again. ;)
This year Glen and I decided that we were going to start a family tradition of going on vacation every year with our children. This is something that we both feel strongly about is an experience that we would like to share with our children year year as they are growing up and maybe even continue when they get married, but that is years down the road and only time will tell to see if it conitues into the adulthood.
This past spring Glen and I were trying to decided where we would like to take our children on vacation. I have heard wonderful things about San Diego and how there is so much to do there, but didn't really think that it was in our budget, so the thought went to the side and I was planning on going to the Orgen coast, which is absoluetly beautiful. I was looking into vacation homes on the ocean shore and different activities to do while we were there. There is a really fun acquirium to go to, whale watching tours, site seeing, and of course playing on the beach. I was getting all of the pricing ready, when Glen came up to me one day and asked what I thought about going to San Diego. I told him that I would love it but I didn't think that it was in your budget this year. He then asked me if I had a choice to go to San Diego or to the Orgen Coast which one would I chose? After we talked to the kiddo's we decided that San Diego was going to be the place for our vacation this summer. I went online and started to shop around for a quality hotel at a reasonable price. I found the Sherdaon Hotel and Marina on the shore of the ocean and it fit with our budget so I booked us for three night. I found an awesome deal at Costco for 3 for 1 passes to the San Deigo Zoo, Sea World and the Wild Animal Park with unlimited visits to each for 5 days. There were other activites that I looked at but needless to say or time down there was filled with more activities then we had schedule time for.
We arrrived in San Diego in between 6 and 7 in the evening,checked into our Hotel and rested from our drive from Las Vegas. There was a lot of landry that we needed to do from the Purnell Bear Lake Reuion and our Las Vegas trip with Ann and Alex. We bought some laundry soap and Glen stayed up super late finishing our laundry at the Hotel so that we would have clean clothes to wear for the rest of the trip. We started our day of adventures going to the San Diego Zoo. We first went on the Bus Tour where we sat on top of the bus going around the park over looking the zoo animals and beautiful that was there. While on the tour we saw....

Vegas Bound......

2010-11-15T13:51:00.000-08:00

After the family reunion was over we met up with my sister Ann and her son Alex in Las Vegas and spent a day there with them. It was some much fun! Glen, Ann and Alex went on "Speed the Ride" and Alex was a little nervous to go on it in the first place. For those of you that have ridden this ride you know how FAST to goes the whole time. I wish that I would have had a camcorder when they took off and the react of Alex when they got back it was pretty funny. It totally took him by surprise. Ann ended up Jump off the Space Needle in Vegas called Sky Jump, which she absolutely loved! We did was site seeing, shopping and swimming. Rainforst Cafe Speed the ride.
Alex's face was PRICELESS when they came back from what seemed like less than a minute ride. I believe that it was a little FAST for him.....Ann and Glen thought that it was pretty fast as well.

Ann did the Sky Jump in Las Vegas and ABSOLUTELY LOVED IT!!! She couldn't stop jumping around after she hit the ground. I do believe that it was quite a thrill for her. Great Job Ann!!! Better you than me, because I know that you wouldn't see up there.

Purnell Reunion at Bear Lake

2010-11-15T11:16:00.000-08:00

Laughing Game Over the summer Glen, the kids and I had an opportunity to have a little family vacation. During the vacation we went to a few different places. Our first stop was at the Purnell family reunion at Bear Lake. We had a blast visiting everyone. When we got there everyone was down at the beach playing in the water, they had just gotten done with some water games and everyone was working on the sand castle competition. Kimberly and Levi didn't have their swimming suits on but that did not stop them from running into the water with their clothes on. I tried to tell them that we could come back later with their swimming suits, but that didn't work. What can I say, we were at the beach, everyone else was playing in the water, so of course they didn't care if they weren't in their swimming suit. When we went to the lodge we set up our beds and and visited. There was a magnet craft that I did with some of the ladies and we played some card games. Friday night Carmen and Marci had planned a skit kits together from different groups. So we found out who was in our groups, got our props and then we found out what song that we had to do our skit to. our song was "I'm to sexy" (I'm not sure about the name, but you all know what song I am talking about) anyway we through something together and went out dancing and being complete goof balls, but we had so much FUN!! Kimberly and Levi after Glen and I were done wanted to dress up and dance to. on Saturday we played Minute to Win It and competed in team. The kids had a balloon popping contest and then some of us went down to the Raspberry Festival and got Bear Lakes famous raspberry milkshakes, which were excellent! We enjoyed ourselves, all of the fun activities and food. The only part that wasn't fun about that trip was that Glen got really sick on Saturday with a nasty flu bug that had he out all day long from all of the activities. Glen doesn't get sick that often and when he does he still gets up and does things even would he should be resting, however this time it hit him hard and like I said he was out all day long.

Update

2010-11-07T19:59:00.001-08:00

Warning this is a really long post....... On our way down to California we met up with my sister Ann and her son Alex in Las Vegas and spent a day there with them. it was some much fun. Glen, Ann and Alex went on "Speed the Ride" and Alex was a little nervous to go on it in the first place. For those of you that have ridden this ride you know how FAST to goes the whole time. I wish that I would have had a camcorder when they took off and the react of Alex when they got back it was pretty funny. It totally took him by surprise. Ann ended up Jump off the Space Needle in Vegas called Sky Jump, which she absolutely loved! We did was site seeing, shopping and swimming. After Vegas we were San Diego bound! I had gotten these 3 for 1 passes that allowed us to go into Sea World, San Diego Zoo and the Wild Animal park unlimited for five days. We ended up going to the Zoo a couple of times which was really cool to see all of the different animals. We got to see a dolphin show that had a fairy tale story tied to the show, which was really neat. The last show that we saw was SHAMU, the killer whale, the kids absolutely loved going and seeing the killer whales jump, dive, and twirl around in the water. We sat in the splash zone and ended up getting a little wet from the pool water that Shamu splashed out with his back fin. The kids really wanted to go to the beach, so we went to the beach a couple of times, which was fun, however every time we went it seemed really cold. The last night that we were there glen decided (even though it was over cast, and late) that he went to go swimming in the ocean, so the kids and I watched as he went into the ocean, I got a couple of pictures and a little video of it even though I was freezing and had to pee really bad, but it was worth it. I eventually found a restroom. We had a great time on our trip and look forward to going somewhere different next year. There was a lot of things planned into our vacation, that I wish that we would have taken a little bit more trip. When we got home from the trip on Sunday night we went out to Jarom's and Corinne's to pick up the trailor that they brought home for us from the reunion, which we were very thankful for so that we didn't have to take it with us on the rest of our vacation. On the way home I wasn't feeling very well like I was achy, but I thought it was from being in the car for a long time so I brushed it off. On the way home from their house I was following Glen who was in the truck pulling the trailer and I was in the Honda that had a head light out. During the drive home I really started not feeling that well and kept on anticipating getting home. All i wanted to do was get the bath and soak because we joints were really achy and we head was starting to hurt pretty bad. I was just about home and i got stopped at the light on Eagle Rd. and HWY 44, the light turned green and I started going, just then a see flashing lights behind me and I remember thinking that I shouldn't have tried to keep up with Glen on Chinden because he was going a little over. Regardless of that I was getting pulled over, it was late, I felt like crap and I just wanted to be HOME! So the first thing that the officer says is, "Do you know why I'm pulling you over?" Me: "No (I thought it was for speeding) Officer: "You have a headlight and I wanted to make sure this was you car." Me: I am thinking...(Really.... okay I have been on the road for hours.....we just got home from a family vacation in San Diego......my car is a MESS.....I feel crap..... I don't even know where my insurance card is....and REALLY you pulled me over to make sure that this was my car....!?!?!) Needless to say I was really crabby and tired, but thankfully I didn't say that to him. I eventually found my insurance card and registration. While he was looking up my info, Glen kept calling me, but I wasn't going to answer the phone of course, anyway he finally came back to the Albertson's parking lot to where I was and waited for me. I informed the officer that we had just gotten back from a family vacation from San Diego and that we hadn't had the opportunity to fix the light yet. He told me have my husband fix it and let me go. There was no ticket thankfully. When I got home the first thing that I did was went to the medicine cabinet and grabbed the thermometer and took my temperature. The end result............103.4 degree's! I haven't had a tempature like that in ten to eleven years. No wonder I didn't feel well, obviously because I wasn't. I ended up going to the doctor and found out that I had picked up strep throat some where. Joy! Medicine is a heaven sent, because I started to feel better within 24 hours, which allowed me to be able to go to the Leroy Lloyd family reunion that was that upcoming weekend in McCall. We spent that weekend in McCall with my side of the family and enjoyed the time that we spent there with everyone. Some of the guys went fishing, the kids went swimming down by the lake,and I helped with the kid craft with Emily. I brought up craft paper, stickers and accents. The idea was for the kids to make place mates and after they were done we would laminate them. It turned into a craft that I everyone joined into. There were some of the adults that made place mats and some made book marks. Everyone's project turned put really cute. At the family reunion Glen wasn't feeling very well either, so on Saturday he slept a lot. He was saying that his throat was hurting and I was worried that he may have picked up what I had. On Sunday he was feeling a little bit better. We ended up decorating animal cupcakes in the evening that Emily had prepared and sat around the camp fire roasting marshmallows and eating cobbler with ice cream, while the grand kids played with the glow sticks that grandma and grandpa had handed out. They all thought it was a hoot. Levi and Kimberly insisted on bringing them to bed with them so that it could be their nightlight. It was a lot of fun. We ended up getting home on Sunday and on Monday we jumped right into school at BSU. Glen's classes started on Monday and my classes started on Tuesday. Needless to say we were jumping from one thing to another without really stopping, because even though we were camping that weekend, there is still a lot of work that comes with camping. About the the middle of the first week of school I started not feeling well again, my throat was hurting and I was hoping that the strep throat didn't come back, but this time it hurt lower in my throat, included a cough and a lower fever. I called the doctor to see what was going on and instead of seeing me he called in a prescription to the phramcay. Over the weekend it still wasn't going away and by Monday my coughing had gotten so bad that I called the ER in evening to see what was going on i was having coughing jags that would continue for like three to four minutes and wouldn't stop, it was absolutely horrible! If I wasn't coughing I was okay, but as soon as the coughing started it was like I couldn't stop and it was extremely hard to breath. I went in to see my doctor the next day. When I saw the doctor I told him what was going on, he looked at me and asked, "Have you been to California within the last month?" Me: "Yes, why?" Doctor: "There has been an outbreak of whooping cough there, you may have picked it up, but the good news is that you have been on the prescription for whooping cough since Friday. So you are no longer contagious and you should start to feel better soon." I am just sitting there thinking okay, this could be worst, but hopefully this is the it for illnesses for a while. A couple of weeks went by I am feeling better from the last two recent illnesses that I have had, Glen and I are super busy with school, spending time with the kids, we feel that we hardly have any free time, let alone time to fold laundry, cook meals (which seems to be far and few between now days, lets just say that Papa Murphy's has been our friend this semester, but has not been so nice on the thighs) or even go grocery shopping. Thursday after I went to scouts I went to the gym (which right now I dearly miss) to go to my kick boxing class, I'm in the class for about 20 minutes and my right side starts to become really painful and I ended up leaving the class early. It was hard to walk out the car, let alone stand up. i went home took some ibuprofen and had a nap. I thought that maybe I was going to start my period. When I woke up the pain was gone and I really didn't think anything of it. A week goes by, it was a Thursday and I was in my Education Foundation class and I started having pain on my right side again just like I did the Thursday before. During class I felt like I was going to pass out when i stood up, but ended up staying for the rest of class. I called Glen told him about it and he told me that I should go in to see my doctor. I called my doctor and they told me to come in right away. I didn't know if it was my appendix, an ep-topic pregnancy or a cyst. I went in the appendix was ruled out and so was the pregnancy. They scheduled for me to go in to get an ultrasound the next morning. The results came back and I talked to me doctor on Monday. I knew that it was a cyst because the tech informed me about it because I had asked her to. I had a cyst that the doctors were watching when i was pregnant with Levi. Over the last year it had grown to a size that they doctors were not comfortable with. I went and saw my OBGYN that Wednesday and there was a decision made that we need to take it out. That afternoon I had the surgery scheduled for October 13th, to remove a cyst on my right ovary that was the size of an orange. The day came that Glen and I got up early in the morning to be at the hospital at 5:30 in the morning and I under went the surgery at about 7:30am. I remember putting on the blue surgeon hat "My party hat as the nurse anesthetist called it", kissing Glen and the next thing that I know is that I am throwing up and the nurse telling me that we were all done. I tell you what I have never felt so tired in my whole life as I did when I was waking up from the surgery. I guess that there was a cyst on the left side the size of a golf ball that they removed as well. My OB explained to me at my two week follow up appointment why I was probably having the pain that I was. My cyst had become twisted with my Fallopian tube and was tucked underneath my uterus, which was creating a pulling sensation. I am just thankful that it is out and i hope and pray that my body doesn't create another one. i have felt extremely blessed and know that my Heavenly Father has been watching out for me and my family during this time. I have amazing people in life who watched Kimberly and Levi during my recovery time namely my Mom, Dad, Corinne and Ann. Glen and I were also blessed to have Donny and Ashley bring us dinner the night of the surgery, Emily and our friend LaNae also helped in providing meals. For my school schedule I have had teachers that have been very understanding. I also had one of my classes have no classes for the week of my surgery and some of my professors canceled some assignments too during that time. Everything has worked out. Before my surgery I felt drawn to the temple and had the opportunity to go a few different times. i felt peace and comfort as I served and pondered in the House of the Lord. I know is that there is a God and he is our Heavenly Father. He loves us. We are his children. i know this to be true. I feel and have felt in my life. This has been a absolutely crazy semester, but things have worked out nicely, even with everything that has gone on. I just can't help bu to think that there are people out there that are and have gone through more difficult things and that we go through these things to become strengthened and stronger individuals. As of now I am feeling much better and have recovered well. We are blessed by the Lord daily. We see and feel those blessing in our lives. Hopefully I can post some pictures soon, but we'll see how soon.

Bear Lake Reunion!

2010-08-29T19:33:00.000-07:00

The first part of our summer adventures started with the Lloyd Reunion at Bear Lake at my Uncle Lanes and Aunt Donetta's family cabin. We got there on Saturday afternoon because on Friday I had a test for my Art class that I needed to do right before we left. Even though we were only there a short time we played on the beach, went swimming, boating and I got in the water for my very first time, seriously I'm 27 and I have NEVER jumped off a boat into the middle of the lake before, so needless to say I was a little bit nervous and after I jumped in I felt like couldn't breath. I'm know....I KNOW...seriously it wasn't that big of a deal. I stayed in the water and attempted to learn how to water ski. I am a little embarrassed to say that I didn't get up!!! >( I tried I think 3 or 4 times, I was already exhausted when I got into the water from only being on 3 hours of sleep, but hey a tried. For the rest of the summer I was itching to get out in the water and try it again. Next summer! Glen went out and tried knee boarding, and tubing with the kids. Glen got thrown off the tube pretty hard. He had a WIPE OUT!!!!! After the fun on the boat (by the way a big THANK YOU to ALEXIS!!!) ride we had dinner, got to do some visiting with family we hadn't seen in a while, grandpa gave a speech before we did the auction and then it was off to bed. So in the middle of the night around 2 or 3 in the morning there was this HUGE, I'm talken HUGE LIGHTING and THUNDER STORM, completely equipped with HAIL, RAIN and yes of course WIND. Oh did I mention that we were in a TENT sharing an air mattress with our children, yes we love them!! We all sleep on it the short way so Mine and Glen's feet were hanging over the edge of the mattress all night. Anyway back to the LIGHTING AND THUNDER STORM AT 3 in the MORNING. So I wake up completely preparing myself for one of my kids to wake up and FREAK OUT, I look over at Kimberly and she just barely looks up at me and then nozzles her way back into her sleeping bag and pulls the top over her head, Levi looks completely asleep through the whole storm and Glen, oh my dear sweet husband is in the corner of the tent, with drips of water beaming onto his forehead and his feet hanging over the side of the bed. Seeing that everyone was fine amongst all of the kayos that was around us I say a little prayer that we could be speared getting struck by all of the lightening around us. In the morning I asked the kids if they heard the thunder and saw the lightening , they said they did that they were a little sacred but that they were okay. I asked Glen about it and he just gave me a look and said, "YES....It was like Chinese torture with the water drops beaming me on the head all night." LOL....poor guy....he's a trooper, but I have to admit it was so funny when he said that! I guess a couple of other people in tents experience the same thing that Glen did. We had a short but fun weekend. Thank you to everyone that helped make a Fun reunion!! Namely Uncle Lane and Aunt Donetta's Family! Big Shout out you guys did a Great job! I didn't take any picture but of the auction, I don't know why but here are a couple.

Grandma Maisey's 80th Suprise Birthday Party

2010-08-28T19:25:00.000-07:00

My mom and her brother's decided to through my grandma Maisey a surprise birthday party for her 80th birthday. They had asked the grandkids to help with the decorating and put my sister-in-law Emily in charge. Emily, Ann, Melissa, Ashley and I got together different times to help with planning and preparing the scrapbook that we would have the people that attended the party write comments to grandma about how she has been a blessing in their lives. It took a lot of planning a preparation but it was well worth it!! My grandma's surprise party was actually on April 17, 2010. Emily, Ann and I met up at the Church in Nampa that we were going to be having the party at and decorated the gym. We decided that we would do theme tables to things that stood out to us about my grandma. The tables that we had were a Church Table with a statue of Christ with children, a picture of the temple, picture of Christ, and little nick knacks that had to do with family. Family and the church have always been very important to her. Grandma has spent many hours in the temple volunteering and to this day still does. We had a table that was Bonfire theme, because when we were younger we would go over to grandma's and grandpa's have a bonfire and winy roast. We still get together to this day every now and then and do that. Grandma's loves Boise State University!! She watches very game during football season and is a very big fan, so we had to have a BSU table!! Go Bronco's!! Grandma enjoys gardening. Whether it is fruits and vegetables or flowers she is known for her great gardens, so we had a table with seed packets, gardening tools, gloves and a watering can with flowers in it. We also had a table that had a decorative jar filled with red Christmas berries and ornaments. Every year for Christmas grandma gives every grandchild a different ornament with the present she gave.She does this for every granchild up to graduation. In my grandma's hall way ever since I can remember she has had a collection of different fans hanging on the wall so we had to have a table of fans. Grandma loves to knit, so there was a table of knitting needles and yarn. We had a red, gold and white color theme and tied one balloon of each color to the back of some chairs through out the room. Decorating the room couldn't have gone more better then planned, it came out just the way we had pictured it, if not better! During the middle of the day my grandma's kids got together and took her out to a surprise luncheon. She wasn't expecting to see all of her children there with their spouses. After the lunch, they had talked about going to a movie, grandma was all for the idea. I can just hear her saying, "Sure.. why not!" On the way to the "movies" my Uncle Dennis is going the wrong way and my grandma notices it, "Dennis, the movie theater is that other way." He pulls into a church parking lot and says "Mom why don't we go in and ask for directions?" "No,No, I'm fine you go in. I'll just wait out here." "No, Mom why don't you come in to." This is where the party was, but she just thought that all of the cars in the parking lot was for some meeting that were going on, she didn't realize that they were all their for her!! She finally decides to go in, thinking that it is just silly that everyone needs to go in and ask for directions. Well when they directed her into the gym where everyone was waiting and when she heard her friends and family shout out SURPRISE!! She couldn't of been more SURPRISED!! When I talked to her I asked her if she had any idea and she told me that she thought she was really going to go to the movies. She had a great night visiting with family and old friends. Even though my grandmother had had a day of surprises what she didn't realize was that the day of surprise wasn't over yet. During the day while my grandma was out to lunch with her children Tom and Glen had installed the new entertainment center that my dad had custom built for her as a birthday gift from all of her kids. All of her children went to her house to see her reaction for when she saw the entertainment center. My grandma walked in the door and walked right passed her birthday gift without even recognizing it, as she went to sit down at her kitchen table she heard everyone in the her front living room bust up laughing, she turned around quickly to see what was so funny she was standing right in front of the entertainment center when someone motioned to her to look behind her. As she turn and saw her beautiful new piece of furniture she about fell over from yet another surprise!! She clasped her hand to her mouth and shock her her saying, "Oh my goodness." Then turned, went and sat down at her kitchen table and cried. My mom went up to her and said, "Are you okay Mom?" She shock her head, smile and gently said, "I can't take any more of these surprises." I am sure that she felt the love of her children, grandchildren, sisters, brothers, and friends. It couldn't have been more of a perfect day! So even though I was there decorating all day and was there for the whole party I only got a couple of photo's I know sad, but I got a couple.

Kimberly's New Haircut.......That she started.........

2010-07-19T09:11:00.000-07:00

Yesterday Kimberly asked me if she could finish coloring her picture that she got in Primary and I said, "Sure." Well I got the crayon box down and there were some kids scissors in the box. I didn't think anything of it, but then about 20 minutes later Levi comes up to me and I can see that he cut a little bit of his hair, but it wasn't bad. I told him that he should cut his hair and that he needed to give me the scissors. He pipes up to say, "We'll Mom, Kimberly cut her hair too." So I go over to Kimberly and at first I can't tell that she cut it, until I look at the other side. She had chopped it clear up to her ear! Glen and I got after her a little bit and I ended up finishing the job the best that I could. So here are some pictures of before and after. I think that in the end it turned out really cute on her. Maybe it was time to cut her hair, since she has never had a hair cut and she is almost 5. We all have a story to tell and this one is Kimberly's. :)

Welcome Baby Samuel!!

2010-07-19T08:49:00.000-07:00

Tom and Melissa had there baby boy on Friday July 16, 2010 at around 12:45 pm. He weighed 9lb 7oz. and was 21 inches long. Glen , the kids I went to see him on Friday evening and to visit with the new parents. Samuel is so CUTE!! I can see both Tom and Melissa in him. Holding him reminded me of holding Kimberly when she was born, because they were about the same size just 5oz. off on the weight. We had a nice visit and we were able to met our new nephew and the kids got to see their new baby cousin. Now my kids keep asking me when are we going to get a little brother or little sister? We'll see :) We couldn't be happier for Tom and Melissa!! Congratulations you two!

Raised Garden Beds

2010-07-11T17:04:00.000-07:00

Welcoming Wrangler Jarom Purnell

2010-07-11T16:32:00.000-07:00

I know that this post is long over due, but I had to post this event. So my sister-in-law Corinne and brother-in-law Jarom have tried for many years to have a child and last October they announced that they were expecting. We were so excited for them, well on May 22nd Wrangler came into the world. Mom and baby are doing well and both Jarom and Corinne couldn't be happier. We are so excited for them copuldn't be happier for them and their new sweet little baby!!

Mom's Birthday

2010-07-11T16:18:00.000-07:00

My 27th Birthday was really good. I started out the day with my sister-in-law Emily and my niece Abby singing me the Happy Birthday song at my front door when Abby got dropped off in the morning. Emily also made me cupcakes! Yummo! I then was able to visit with different friends throughout the day and later in the evening my Mom came over and watched the kids for Glen and I so that we could go out. All in all I had a Great Day!

Father's and Son's 2010

2010-07-11T10:19:00.000-07:00

In the middle of May Glen, Levi and Alex went together on a Father's and Son's camp out up in the Owyhee Mountains in Oregon. They had a blast and Levi caught his very first fish. Needless to say he was very excited, Alex caught his second fish and Glen caught a couple as well. Here are a few photo's of the fun time that they had. Going Boating

Lady Bug Arts and Crafts

2010-07-11T10:13:00.001-07:00

Here is a LadyBug Art and Craft that the kids did in May. They Love to Paint!

Play Time at the Park!!! YAY!!

2010-07-11T10:01:00.000-07:00

Life gets pretty busy here at the Purnell house hold and when I have time, as well as room in my car (when I don't have more than 3 kids) I like to take the chance to take the kids to the park to get out and play. Here was a day that I took Kimberly, Levi and my niece Abby. There are not a lot of picture but they had FUN!

Shoes.....

2010-07-11T09:51:00.001-07:00

A few weeks ago I was getting ready to start my studying during the kids quite time and as I looked over at the door I saw a pile of shoes. Not just my shoes, but the shoes of my kids and the kids that I watch every week. As I looked at the pile I realized that the only pair of adult shoes in the stack were mine and needless to say they were a pair of my heels. Hence my daily life as a Wife, Mother, Childcare Provider, Student and a Woman! Could it get an better! :)

Time to Catch UP!! Mother's Day 2010

2010-07-11T09:44:00.000-07:00

I had a Wonderful Mother's Day! Glen and the kids made me breakfast in bed, Kimberly and Levi made me some YUMMY jewelery in their Sunday School class and after church we were able to go over to my Mom and Dad's and talk to Stephen who is serving a mission in Honduras and will be home this September.

Time to Reflect- Remembering the Past

2010-04-12T09:15:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I was able to reflect back to a couple of years ago to 2008. Back in 2005-2007 my husband was doing well with his own business. He started up his own contacting business doing remodels, add-ons, door installs, window installations, paint to trim. Things were going well we had hired on a group of great, hard working men, who performed well in the work that they did. We tried to be a fair as we could and we wanted it to be a win-win situation for everyone involved, the employee's, sub-contractors, customers and the business as a whole. Around the February-March of "08" Glen met with his accountant and then he met with me. The news was not what I expected or even wanted to hear. I remember Glen took me to lunch at a local sandwich shop in Eagle at Quizzno's and revealed to me what was discussed at the meeting that he went to with our accountant. My heart sank deep into the pit of my stomach as he laid out where we were with our current situations with our company "Eagle Specialties" The company had accumulated more debt and we had a customer who still owed us over $10,000.00 and sadly did not feel that they needed to pay Glen's company the remaining amount. With the cost of paying the employee's, workmen comp insurance, taxes, accountant fee's, the monthly office bill, truck payments, and paying on the other bills that we had, we recognized that we were in big trouble! Things were going Great, but that all ended to soon. I had KD's Childcare which was ex termly successful and I had hired on an employee who I absolutely loved working with. Glen and I talked about what we could do and did A LOT of praying and fasting. We wanted to do anything, but bankruptcy. After long nights, many discussions with Glen and A LOT of Tears, we realized that we could no longer afford to pay for the cost of employee's, especially with the way the market economy was going. We still had a customer with a balance of 10,000.00 dollars with no intentions of paying and we no jobs were lining up. Glen even went down town at the Home and Garden Show with Boise Center of the Grove and set up a booth for Eagle Specialities. He received a lot of contact information from people that were there, but even with our Assistant Jenny calling to set up times for Glen to come, do bids and estimates people just weren't doing anything. It's like everything FROZE! We knew with the way that things were going that we had to let all of our employee's go. I remember that morning clear as day. It was raining that morning and I went and got doughnuts and chocolate milk. We had everyone met at the office in the conference room and then Glen explained that with the way things were going we could no longer afford to have the employee's. Everyone one was kind and seemed to be understanding of the situation. That was an emotional day for both Glen and I, it was the last thing that we wanted to do, but it was something that we knew we needed to do. After that meeting Glen and I talked and we decided that we had to let Alyssa go as well, since we needed that extra income to pay for expense and I wasn't going to school at the time I would take over the childcare full time by myself. I came home and explain to Alyssa the situation and that we were letting her go, it was heart breaking to do that and all that we did that day. I have heard that business is business, but it's hard not to allow your emotions to get involved, because honestly they do. We ended up letting Jenny go as well and we got rid of the office. I remember the day that we let everyone go, about a week later Glen and I found out that the company that Glen used to work for "Stilen Doors" had closed down it's shop on that same Monday we let everyone go. We also found out that Franklin Building Supply and Stone Lumber had laid off about 30%-40% of their employee's. It truly felt to me like time stood still the day that I found that information out. It felt like I was in the middle of a current econ mic depression! I remember thinking to my self and wondering when all of the parking lots at the stores would no longer be full of cars but instead be filled with silence with no one on the streets. I can honestly say that I was waiting and preparing myself for that to happen. Among these trial we still wanted to do everything that we could to pay off the business debt that we had. So after discussing it more we decided that we would sell our house and take the equity from the sell to pay off most of our business debt. We met with a Realtor and within a week (if not a few days) our house was on the market. We were going to close down the childcare, move into an apartment downtown Boise by the University and focus full time on school. I remember that I even had a closing date for the childcare. I had some parents pull there kids out due to the fact that we were going to be moving, some of the kids moved away out to Nampa, and one parent got mad that we were moving and closing down to go to school. What can you say, I guess that you can't please everyone. I had some kids stay, I remember their parents saying, "We aren't leaving until you tell us that we can't come here anymore." I am truly grateful for the parents that stayed and continued to have me care for their children during this difficult time in our life. I will be eternally grateful for their love and support they gave us. We ended up having our house on the market for a few months and prayed that if our home was supposed to sell that it would. Well I think that we had maybe 2 people look at it during the time that it was on the market. Something about having on the market didn't feel right after having it out their for a few months, so we took it off and decided that Bankruptcy was our only option. Glen went and found an attorney and the process got started. We would receive 30-50 phone calls a day and our messages on our answering machine would fill up as fast as we emptied it. We had men come to our door to collect the company trucks and threaten to take Glen to jail if he didn't give them back, we were harassed over the phone numerous times. Looking back at this experience you can say that times were hard. We felt/were judged by people and felt the humiliation of even talking about bankruptcy. I remember feeling drained emotionally, physically, and even spiritually. I felt temptations that I haven't felt in a really, really, really long time and the temptations WERE STRONG..!!! I remember feeling so angry at Glen for starting up the company and would at times blame him for what we were going through. It breaks my heart to realize that I did that to him, and I am sorry for it. This company was as much as his decision as it was mine. I remember feeling like I just wanted to leave, like seriously LEAVE and not come back until it was better. I remember being tempted to drink and go to bars. You know we all heard the saying drink the pain away. Hard Liquor never had looked so appealing as it did during that time in my life. I remember wanting to go and get tattoo's, but I knew if I did that it would affect my family in a way that I didn't want it to in the long run. As a parent I feel like kids learn from example and so I decided not to get one, as it might affect some of their decision later in life. Even though it's still tempting to get one sometimes, I know that it's probably best not to get any. As I have written about my experience over the past two year I realize that we have been blessed in the process. Even though bankruptcy was something that we DID NOT want to do, we have lived through it. We have a better understanding at life and the reality of things that can happen. I feel that Glen and I have grown and become stronger in the process. We are now able to focus on school full time and get that done. We have a roof over our head, food to eat, clothes on our backs, warm bed to sleep in, amazing family and friends that have supported us and shown their love and concern. I am still doing the Childcare and I am going back to school Full Time to obtain my degree in Early Childhood Education and hope to minor in Health and Fitness or Exercise Science. Glen is no longer doing window installs with the Home Depot, but has been working down at the school with the Boise State Research Department working with DNA nao-structures. Even though the things that we went through were extremely difficult for us and caused pain, heart, sleepless nights and A LOT of tears I feel blessed and know that I am stronger because of it. This reflection has been difficult for me to look back on and write about and it leaves a thump in my throat to reread it but as I have done so I feel a sense of relief that I could not have felt if I didn't do this. Life is interesting in the journeys and the roads that it takes us down, but I know that we can only grown through our struggles and pains. I feel it is important to document or journal your past experiences as they are a part of your life and who you are. I am excited for what the future holds and look forward to my tomorrows with a renewed sense of joy and gratitude.

Glen's 28th Birthday

2010-04-11T17:58:00.001-07:00

This year for Glen's birthday (Febuaury 21st....I know i'm a little late posting this) we had Shana, Jeremy, Sammi and Constance in town staying with us over the weekend. We had a family Spagitti Dinner and of course cake, ice cream and presents. We enjoyed having the company of Jeremy and Shana's family over the weekend and enjoyed having Jarom, Corinne, Shem and Reilly there as well for the family birthday dinner. It was fun to visit with everyone and to have some of Glen's siblings there made it even that much more special. Thanks for everyone coming :) Happy Birthday Babe!! Kimberly and Levi added a few extra candles..... Cousins Kimberly and Sammi Presents time!!

2010-04-11T16:51:00.000-07:00

During the holidays I try to have some fun crafts for the kids to do. This year on Valentines we had a house full and alot of fun. Were we're able to have Aiden, Liam, Berlyn, Abby and my two kids here. Earlier in the week before I went to my Sociology class I went to the Hobby Lobby and picked up these wooden hearts and some Valentines Day rub-on-stickers. So on the day of the craft I got out my paints, smocks, let the kids pick their paint color and their rub-on. Once they picked their color I allowed them to start to paint. The girls had to wait, because we only had 3 brushes and we flipped a coin to see if girls or boys could go first. The boys won and the girls patiently waited. Berlyn got a fresh drink before she got started. I got the cup of water out for the kids to rinse their brushes out with. But with the kids only using one color on their hearts and the water being unused I told Berlyn that she could have it. The kids had a fun time painting and their crafts all turned out really cute! :)

Pretty Princesses =]

2010-04-11T15:06:00.001-07:00

I have the oppurtunity to watch my niece Abby during the week and from time to time Caitlyn comes over to play with Kimberly. Here is a day earlier in the year were the girls all dressed up like princesses and I got a couple of pictures. Levi wanted to join into the picture fun too. :) It's fun to watch the kids play pretend. Pretty Princesses and A Prince..... Time to be GOOFY!!! Kimberly, Abby and Caitlyn

Blog Going Private

2010-01-19T09:14:00.001-08:00

Hello everyone!! I have been thinking for the last couple of weeks to go private with my blog and I think that that is what I'm going to do. So if you would like to keep up with our family please e-mail me your blogging e-mail address and I'll add you or you can post your e-mail address on here. Which ever you prefer. My e-mail address is kathypurnell@yahoo.com. I'll leave it opened for a day or so, but after that I'm going to go private. Thanks everyone! :)_

The Case of the Missing Tree Berries

2010-01-13T13:09:00.000-08:00

So for Christmas this year I decided to put berries on our tree to give it some red accents. While every other day or so I would look at the tree and think, "I thought I put more berries on that." A week went by and our little tree was seeming to be getting barer and barer of the berries. I even added some more berries and after I did that even some of them seemed to go missing. Finally I asked Kimmi and Levi if they had been taking berries off of the Christmas tree. Levi said, "No mommy I haven't, I don't know were they are." I gave he a look that said, "Are you sure?" Next Kimmi says shyishly, Ummmm.... no mom, I don't know where they are either." "Are you sure I asked her?" She looks at me and again and says, Ahhh I think I know where they are." She ran off to her room in a hurry, then came back and said, No Mom they aren't anywhere." So I went to look in her room and sure enough.....she was right they weren't there. After that I really didn't think about it anymore. So fast forward to a few weeks later, after all of the Christmas items are put away and lets go to .....lets say like today! I was cleaning up Cooties peices from behind the couch by our front window where Abby and Kimmi were playing with them and there were some by the vent. I thought, "I wonder if one or two of the legs might have fallen down there, so I open up the vent and low and behold there were my missing berries!!!! A great big pile of them just sitting there in the front living room vent!! I called Kimmi over and looking at her concerned asked, "Did you put these down the vent?" She looks at me a little ashamed, and says, "Yes Mom." "Why did you out these down the vent?" "Because I didn't like them on the tree." "Just because you don't like them on the tree doesn't mean you can put these down the vent, that's naughty." "I'm sorry mommy" Oh my oh my..... I had to hold my self back from laughing and of course I had to come and post it. That is just too funny!! I think that I'm going to write a childrens story from this experience and dedicate it to Kimmi! ;) (Little Turkey ! HaHa!!)

Boise State University

2010-01-11T13:39:00.000-08:00

I received my acceptance letter from Boise State University to be a Full Time Degree-Seeking Student on January 5th 2009. I have been going to BSU for a few years now, but I have been taking only one class at a time because I had to take up to 14 credits and pay for them all on my own before I could go any further. yep, that's right no finical aid. So when we have had the money I've been able to get a class in here and there. It seems like it has taken me a long time to just get the 15 credits that I know have, but the beautiful thing about this is that I can now go FULL TIME and I can RECEIVE FINICAL AID!! That is so nice!!! What a blessing. This semester I signed up for 16 credits, but I'm only enrolled into 7 of them because I am waiting for the other classes to open up so that I can get into them. I am on a waiting list and am #1 for two classes and #10 in one class (but that #10 used to be #22, so there have been a lot of people that have already dropped out) One thing that I am really going to have to MASTER is TIME MANAGEMENT, seriously. Pretty much every minute of every day is going to have be planned out. Time for studying, time for Glen, time for the kids, time to play. You know the saying "You Work Hard, You Play Hard". I will never forget what President Thomas S. Monson said in the Genera Relief Society Women's Broadcast in September of 2007. He said, "Beyond our study of spiritual matters, secular learning is also essential...... I urge you to pursue your education-if you are not already doing so or have not done so-that you might be prepared to provide if circumstances necessitate. Your talents will expand as you study and learn. You will be able to better assist your families in their learning, and you will have peace of mind knowing that you have prepared yourself for the eventualities that you may encounter in life." I remember being over to come with the spirit when he said that and I will never forget the way I felt. It was like he was talking to me. I know that I have written about this before but it is something that I feel is so personal to me and is the thing that I need to do to prepare myself whether its to help my children do better in their schooling or to receive my education for the need having to provide for the future, I don't know. But one thing that I do know is that I'm in action of getting my education and perusing that process. What a great time. As I look around and really stop to think about and see what I have been blessed, I really see my self among great blessings.

My Little Dancer

2010-01-06T16:08:00.000-08:00

So I finally got Kimmi signed up for dance classes! Yay!!! I tried to do it a few months ago by taking her to Glen's Aunt but the times just didn't work out, because the time I would be picking Kimberly up from dance is the time when my niece that I watch would be getting picked up also. So it would be way to rushed, if not a conflict. :( Bummer! So I tried another dance studio during the morning but they were full. Next I found Eagle's "The Little Gym" and they only had 3 spots left for the Spring Session, so I signed her up right away and got her into a morning class. She is so excited!! It will be nice for her to get out of the house and interact with other kids (outside of the home) I will definately keep everyone updated on our new found little dancer. Next thing to do is get Levi signed up for Soccer. ;)

Free Writting- Why Not!?!?!

2010-01-04T10:58:00.000-08:00

So I've been thinking lately about alot of different things. I think that when a new year comes along we get excited about the "NEW" What are we going to change? What will we accomplish? Wanting to become better at ........ whatever? You name it. And of course probably the number one New Years Resolution is wanting to lose weight. Maybe you have a new years resolution to learn something new, travel to a place that you've never gone before, be a better person, be nicer, more generous, live life more fully. I say hell, if you want to do these things then WHY NOT? It is so very easy to get caught up in saying something. "I'm going to do this....... this year. But how many of us actually do them? Hey I know that I'm guilty. You get so excited about something then if it isn't going the way that you want it to go then you get discouraged. You know what I mean. I think that sometimes especially for some women we get caught up in emotions, geesss who can blame us we were born with these crazy hormones. I guess what I am trying to say here is if you have something that you want to do, then DO IT!!! Don't let anything stop you from it!! I'm a wife, mother, student, childcare provider and there are alot of things that I want to do. I think that sometime or even alot of the times we make excuses for ourselves. Like I can't do this because of...... you fill in the blank. But really????? Do we really need to make excuses for ourselves? I say, "I THINK NOT!!" Don't get me wrong there are priorities that you do need to tend to first in life, you can't go crazy and go out and do something just because you want to do it. I mean I guess you could but it probably would not be the best choice. Life needs a balance, and with a balance you can do the things that you would like to. So I say why not go out and accomplish your goals that you have. Live life with JOY, HAPPINESS,. BE POSITIVE and REACH FOR YOUR DREAMS!! Don't judge others...that's for God to do, not you! Live this year as though it is your last. Be smart with the dissions that you make. You are the ONLY person responsible for your actions, no one else is. So don't try to blame things on others. I guess this post is really for me personally and no one else. Don't get me wrong your free to read this. I just needed to get my thoughts out. We all have thoughts moments, right? Here are a few of my goals that I have for this year: * Be the Best wife I can be * Be the Best Mother I can be * Be the Best Student I can be * Give my very Best in my Callings * Train for and run my first Half Marathon * Start writing my first book * Start saving for a Vacation (Hey you've got to start somewhere) * Be more out going (But where do you start and what the heck do you say!!) I swear sometime I don't know what to talk about. haha...does this happen to anybody else? There are so many more things that I want to do in life. Like record my own private album. I don't even know if I'm a good singer or not, but I'll start with singing lessons. I don't know if this one is going to be on the list for this year but it's on "My Bucket List" ;) You know things you want to do before you die. I also want to take dance lessons sometime, I think that would be so much fun!! So my list is small, but it's reasonable. When making your list don't be unrealistic. Keep it to something that you manage and ACCOMPLISH!! You are the only one in charge of your destiny. Reach for the sky... you are the only one in charge of your dreams. Get started make your dreams happen today! Cheers!! Here's to a New Year 2010!!!

New Years Eve

2010-01-04T08:40:00.001-08:00

Glen the kids and I rang in the new year at my prents house with my Mom, Dad, Ann and Alex. We ate good food, watched some kids movies, Ice Age and Ice Age the Melt Down, played games, rang in the New year with confetti poppers, and cheers to 2010!!! We are looking forward to a new year year with new goals and a new opputunity to better ourselves. May the New Year bring you and family joy and happiness. Happy New Years Everyone!! Here's to 2010!!! Getting ready...... New Year!!!! Ringing in 2010!!! Watching the fireworks

Sledding on New Years Eve

2010-01-04T08:26:00.000-08:00

So early in the evening on New Years Eve my sister Ann and I decided to take our kids sledding at Friendship Park just a couple of blocks away from my house. It was snowing that night and the kids had a blast going down the hill thats there. We got pretty wet from the snow but we had a great time.

Christmas

2009-12-30T14:16:00.000-08:00

We hope that everyone had a Wonderful Christmas! Our Christmas was very nice. We started by having Christmas Eve dinner over at my parents house and had the family there for a Christmas Eve dinner as well as Grandma and Grandpa Lloyd, Aunt Mary, Grandma Maisey and Uncle Wade. After dinner and visting we came home and each of us opened one gift, which was PJ's. I was thinking that the kids would be sound asleep before we got home but nope they were wide awake and ready to open that one gift.They were so excited! Christmas morning we woke and I started a fire in the fire place, baked cinnamon rolls and then the kids woke up and the unwrapping began. Kimmi got dolls from Santa and Levi got a remote control car from Santa. Glen and Levi made Kimberly a bed for her dollies. After we were done opening presents we got ready and then went over to grandma and grandpa's for presents, a delicious brunch with coffee cakes, cinnamon rolls, bacon, meat pie, oranges and hot cocoa. We also got to talk to Stephen for a little bit and we got a suprise phone call from Glen's dad with Adam on the other line. We only got to pretty much say hi, Merry Christmas, we love you and bye, but it was so nice to talk to him as well. After visiting at my parents for a little while we came home. Glen went to go feed the horses, Kimmi and Levi played with their new toys and started to fix Christmas dinner while listening to the families new Christmas CD. We had Mom, Dad, Ann and Alex over for dinner and ate by a soft candle light. All I can say is that it felt like Christmas, I love that feeling! After dinner we all relaxed and watched a few movies. That is our christmas there are a LOT of Pictures so enjoy! Everyone in there new PJ's This is the bed the Glen and Levi madee for Kimberly. After they brought it Kimmi gave Levi a huge hug. My parents for all of the guys had them close their eyes while my mom brought out Boise State Hats for each one of them. The funny thing about these hats was that Boise State Logo lights up. So after the guys got their hats they all turn on the lights and pout them on. When you looked around the room you would see all of the guys with the Boise State logo flashing. It was hilarious, so Awesome! The salad bowls that we got for Donny and Ashley.

Holiday Activities

2009-12-27T20:13:00.000-08:00

Kimmi and Levi visiting with Santa at our church's Ward Christmas party. This year we went with our friends Kara and Jason their kids, some of their friends and both of Kara and Jason's families came along as well, to the navitiy that the Eagle Idaho Stake puts on. The night that we went it was cold and foggy, but the fog gave it a special feel that night as we stopped to listen to the angles sing, and then walked to see Baby Jesus laying in a manger. After seeing the baby Jesus we had hot cocoa and then took a tractor pulled hay ride back up to the parking area. The next night I went again with my Mom , Ann, Abby, Alex and my kids. The kids loved it and keep asking me if we can go back and do it again and again. Kimi and I on a tractor pulled hay wagon ride . Glen and Levi Walking thru the city on Bethlehem to see baby Jesus. It was neat to go with our friends and family this year to the nativity.

4 Generation Photo's

2009-11-01T12:34:00.001-08:00

While we were over at my Grandma's house,we took some four generation photo's with my Grandma Maisey, My Mom, My Self, and My Kids. It's funny because on the way driving over I thought that we should take a 4 generation photo and then my Uncle Wade mentioned, "Hey, why don't you guys sit close together and get a 4 generation photo." Two great minds think alike! Thanks Wade for taking our photo! I absolutely LOVE these Ladies, my Little Lady and my Buck!!! They are all very special to me.

Trick or Treating

2009-11-01T10:55:00.001-08:00

Last night I ended up taking the kids trick or treating around our neighborhood. When we went around to the houses with their lights on I introduced myself to my neighbors. It seems like with how busy life gets that we don't really get to know those individuals and families that are right next door. After living in our house from almost five years it's about time to let them know that we are their neighbors. After hitting our neighborhood we went up to my mom's neighborhood, hit a couple of houses and then went over to my Grandma Maisey's house to visit with her and my Uncle Wade. Wade had gone to RcWilley to get a couple of Halloween decorations and one of them was a skeleton mummy character that Levi wouldn't go near because when you would clap or make a loud noise it would move and make scary noises. However by the end of the night Wade had convinced him that the skeleton was his buddy. Kimmi and Levi ended up taking turns clapping to make it go on and would laugh every time. ;) So fun! It was a fun night and has definitely been a festive month. Enjoy the photo's! Spiderman!!! Snow White and Spiderman right before trick or treating.... Grandma and Grandpa Lloyd's house (My Parents) Alex getting the door.....he wasn't able to go trick or treating this year because he was feeling the greatest, we ended up leaving him some candy since he wasn't able to go. Grandma Maisey's house. Wade, Grandma Maisey, Mom, Kimmi, Levi and I OOooooooow!! Wade being goofy as a Ghost..... Levi not wanting to go near the skeleton..... Grandma Maisey showing him that it's just fake, that it's okay and not to be scared. Ummmm ....... I don't think so! He didn't know what to think. Maybe it's not so bad after all..... Kimmi loved the skeleton, she thought it was funny when he went off! He's my buddy now!

Halloween Party 2009

2009-10-31T11:09:00.000-07:00

Happy Halloween Everyone!!! So last night was our annual Halloween party!!! It was so much fun!!! Glen was out getting the horses ready to take them hunting today with my brother Allan and my brothers boss and ended up getting there a little bit late for the party. (By the way YOU OWE ME FOR THAT BABE!!) But he was able to come by and bring the horses to show the kids. We did a pinyta for all of the kiddo's, had the kids put together "Dirt and Worms", petting the horses, played a mini game of "Fear Factor" , ate lots of Yummy Food, took some fun pictures, and had a really nice time visting with everyone. Thank you to everyone who was able to come, it definately makes it a great party when you all are there, also thanks to everyone who brought something and help out with prep and clean up. We appreciate it very much and LOVE you ALL! :) Those of you who weren't able to come last night were missed, but there will be next years ;) There are a TON of pics, so I won't comment on everyone, but enjoy,and ............................. Have a fun and safe Halloween! The group photo of everyone. Petting the Horses... Pinyta Time! It was a Blast to watch the kids with the Pinyta :) CANDY......!!!!!!! PRIZES.....!!!!!!!!!!! YES!!!!!! Hahaha... Love it Donny! Mr. Mafia and Mrs. Gorilla and going to brawl.... Nice Guys! Allan, Emily, and Abby as a Baker, Pinocchio, and Cindy Lu from the Who's in WhoVille. Emily really was a baker that night in helping me with everything!!! THANKS SO MUCH EMILY.....LOVE YA!!! Loved the outfit Allan... my brother wears that sometimes when he plays with his band in shows a propt. Abby as cute as ever. Katie, Dennis and their kids dressed as Cowgirl, Cowboys and their Little Monster!! I'm so glad you guys came, it was a lot of fun!! Corinne and Jarom as the "Swine Flu" She thought of the idea and made the customes! Love it Very Creative!! Shem and Reilly as the "Newly Weds" (You probably noticed them making out in the group photo......eh, eh..... you guys ;) Tom as the Muffia, loved it I almost got that same custome for Glen and I. You looked pretty tight man!Mom as A Halloween Butterfly, she did a great job painting her face.Ann as a Pink Gorilla...hillarious...loved it girl! Alex as the Dark Force.....Dun Dun dun... pretty spooky....So fun you guys looked Great! Glen and I were our own versions of Will Turner and Elizabeth Swann for Pirates and the Carribean. Donny Ashley from China Town (They actually got their outfits from China, when they when up to visit her parents for a couple weeks this summer, loved the customes you guys!!! ;) Nice Allan.... Fear Factor Time! (Mini Fear Factor) What we did was divide up into two teams and two players from each team had to get the gummie worms and gummie rings out of the tin pan filled with whipped topping, the team that got the most in their cups in 40 seconds, won. Which was Team 2! Alex and Corinne won the prizes in their team, good job guys! I have to say that was fun to watch!

Early Trick or Treating

2009-10-31T10:41:00.001-07:00

Emily invited, Ann, my kids, and I to go with her and Abby Trick or Treating at her work. The kids went from desk to desk trick or treating. The hallowwen buckets were full right to the top by the time they were done. They loved it and had so much fun! Thanks Emily for having us come! First stop.... Kimmi sharing candy with Levi. Abby was Cinda Lu from Who Vile.....she's so cute. She keep on taking off her head band and this is a photo of Emily putting it back on. I love the photo and think it's darling! Who's desk is next....

Linder Farms Pumpkin Patch

2009-10-31T09:36:00.001-07:00

A few weekends ago I took the kids and we went out to Linder Farms Pumkin Patch. Glen was over at his Uncle Davids place doing some work and wasn't able to go, but we did not got alone we ended up picking up Ann and Alex and having them come to join in the fun! We meet up with Allan, Emily, Abby, Alyssa, Kristin, Zachery, Janette, Dustin and their kids, and Merlayn later on during the night. It was a lot of fun to met up with them :) We first started by going to the petting zoo that they had there. The kids loved seeing the animals. Next we went on a trackor pulled hay ride out to the pumkin fields where we got off and started the hunt for the pumpkins. There were all sorts of different pumpkins, red ones, little one, bumpy warted lookin ones, blueish green ones, white ones and of course orange ones. The kids love being out there picking out their pumpkins, however it was FREEZING that day, but they still had fun. After getting our pumpkins we got some hot coco to warm us up. That's when we met up with the rest of the group Allan, Emily and her sisters. We took the kids back to the petting zoo, where they feed the animals. The whole time we were there Levi insisted on going on the truck pulled barrel cow ride. He would say, "Mom, Mom, Mom, can we go on it now, can we, can we?" I love how kids can be so excited at times, even though sometimes it can be overwhelming, ha... that where patiences comes in ;) At the end of the night he was able to go on the cow barrel train with his sister, cousins and friends. Kimmi and Levi had so much fun. At night time for their prayers or when they are saying the family prayer Kimmi and Levi both say in the parayer,"And thank you we could go to the pumpkin patch, and go on rides, and thank you that Antie Ann and Alex and Uncle Allan and Aunt Emily and Abby could go. Thank you we could get pumpkins and that we could go on rides." Still after a few weeks they are still talking about it. They had a blast! After the pumking patch we went back to my dad had hot soup and then met up with Glen at his Uncle Davids for a bon fire and smores. All and all it was a fun memoriable night. My camera lost battery power right after Alex's picture or there would have been alot more photo's, but here are the ones that I got. Even with these photo's I suprised that I was able to get any because when we first got there I went to take pictures and it would shut off and tell me to change the battery pack. I keep turning it on and it would let me take a picture here and there and then the battery died. But hey I was able to get a few ;) The Kiddo's right before the hunt! Alex helping Levi across the little ditch. I love my nephew he is so fun and such a sweet heart. Percious Photo.... Levi and his first pumpkin that he picked up. When he saw the blueish green ones he changed his mind on the first pumpkin he picked up. He wanted a BLUE one ;) Alex and his pumpking..... it was a little bit heavy, but he's a tough one. Our group of pumpkins that we brought home with us.

Carmen and Ryan's Baby's Blessing

2009-10-31T09:19:00.001-07:00

The first weekend in October we were able to go down to Utah for a super quick trip to see Carmen and Ryan's baby be blessed. It was fun to see the family. Their little baby James is so cute and such a good baby! We are happy for you guys! Little James Carmen, Ryan and James The men who helped particapte in the blessing.

Piggy Bank Change

2009-10-28T18:26:00.000-07:00

So tonight we decided to count and roll the coins in our piggy bank and our childrens piggy banks,(Yes Glen and I do have a Piggy Bank ;) we could hardly fit any more coins in to the kids and ours was getting pretty heavy. After all the counting and rolling there was over $200.00, now that's alot of coins!!! Now we can start the process all over again because they are pretty much empty. It's amazing how chupp change can add up! :)

Life......

2009-10-28T09:10:00.000-07:00

So every now and then I question, "What is my purpose in life? Who I am supposed to be? What talents and gifts do I have? When will we REALLY be done with school? How can I best use PATIENCE everyday or in times when I really should use it? Will we have more kids? If so, when? Where will we be living in 2-3 years? Will we move out of the state of Idaho? Where will Glen go to gradute school at? What will Glen decide to be? Medical school, is it really in our future? Mechanical Engeering? Is my pourpose in life to just be a mom? (Don't get me wrong, I LOVE my kids and wouldn't trade them for the world!) Man even an adult I still have these questions, I mean really shouldn't I know some of these answers. Today Is more of a "personal journal entry, more than anything I guess.... Will I or should I continue school? I feel like I should. You know a few years ago I went to a Relief Society Womens Broadcase and one thing the President Thomas S. Monson said was,"We live in the time spoken of in 2 Nephi, chapter 9: “O the vainness, and the frailties, and the foolishness of men! When they are learned they think they are wise, and they hearken not unto the counsel of God, for they set it aside, supposing they know of themselves, wherefore, their wisdom is foolishness and it profiteth them not. And they shall perish." “But to be learned is good if they hearken unto the counsels of God.”7 Required is the courage to hold fast to our standards despite the derision of the world. Said President J. Reuben Clark Jr., for many years a member of the First Presidency: “Not unknown are cases where [those] of presumed faith … have felt that, since by affirming their full faith they might call down upon themselves the ridicule of their unbelieving colleagues, they must either modify or explain away their faith or destructively dilute it, or even pretend to cast it away. Such are hypocrites.”8 There comes to mind the powerful verses found in 2 Timothy, in the New Testament, chapter 1, verses 7 and 8: “For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind. “Be not thou therefore ashamed of the testimony of our Lord.” Beyond our study of spiritual matters, secular learning is also essential. Often the future is unknown; therefore, it behooves us to prepare for uncertainties. Statistics reveal that at some time, because of the illness or death of a husband or because of economic necessity, you may find yourself in the role of financial provider. Some of you already occupy that role. I urge you to pursue your education—if you are not already doing so or have not done so—that you might be prepared to provide if circumstances necessitate such. Your talents will expand as you study and learn. You will be able to better assist your families in their learning, and you will have peace of mind in knowing that you have prepared yourself for the eventualities that you may encounter in life. I reiterate:Study diligently." President Thomas S. Monson I remember to this day how I felt when he spoke those words. It was like he was looking straight at me saying, "Kathy make sure you get your EDUCATION!" You know I can honestly say that I strongly feel that I need to get my education to prepare myself for things that may come. Sometimes it is sooooo HARD to do though!! I have my kids and I feel that when I study it's taking time away from them, but it's something that needs to be done. There's a saying that I'm sure you know that says, "Patience is a Virtue." But me and Patience, oh at times it seems so uncertain. Then there are times that I pray I can have Patience and I swear I get tested harder for patience. Like with the way my kids act or Glen trying to decide what he will do for his career. I want him to decide on something that he will enjoy doing; (so that it's not such a heart ache to go to work) and something that will bring in a comfortable income. I want my kids to experience life and enjoy it by doing sports, dance, music, art, being able to go on family vacations etc.... I don't want them to grow up hearing, "Oh sweetie we can't afford that or we don't have money for a vacation." I want them to grow appreciating things, don't get me wrong I don't want spoil my kids rotten. I want for them to learn how to work, respect, appreciate, love, care, and service others. I should know my purpose. I know that I need and feel like I need to stay at home with my kids. There are to many things that happen when mom's or dad's aren't there at home. I need to be there! I guess there are times in our live were we blossom and grow. We learn and experience different things in life that help to shape us to who we are, we should love ourselves, love life. We only get one chance, how will you live? What will you experience? Who lives will you touch? What attitudes will you have? Who will you be kind to and reach out too? May I suggest a few things: DO YOUR BEST..... BE YOUR BEST.......GIVE YOUR BEST!! As you and I do this to our Very Best Efforts will will strengthn ourselves and will touch and change the lifes of many! I guess sometimes we need to reflect on where we are going and what we are doing with our lives. May we live our lives well and bless the lives of those around us! :) Happy Wednesday everyone, make this day a day of change where you make and set goals to make you better!

Good Old Fashioned Heat

2009-10-26T19:40:00.000-07:00

For the last few night nights we have been having a fire going in the fire place. I love the feel of a real fire, it's been a couple of years now since we've had a fire in the winter time. This year we hope to change that by a having a fire going regularly, Glen and I have talked a little bit about it and we've decided to try to heat our home through out most of the winter with a fire going in our fire place, we'll see how it goes. Hopefully it will cut down on the heating bills that can tend to get pretty high in these winter months. In a few months I'll have to compare the statements from last years bill and this years. But in the meantime here's to cozy nights around the fire place reading night time stories to the kids, indoor smores, and long winter nights.

Catch UP Time!!

2009-10-18T20:44:00.001-07:00

So here we are on the road in Cinda and Harum's RV traveling down to the lake for our last little bit of weekend fun. Fitnzer's, Swenson's, Lamb's, Spirig's, and Zezula's and our family went out the lake to have a little bit of weekend fun! It was full of getting to know new people, boating, seadoing, LOTS of sun and having a Great Time out on the Lake. The family going for a ride. Glen and Harum pulling a tube behind the seado. Glen and Levi hitting the water. Time to race..... haha those seados are so FUN!!! Jeff Fitnzer coming in with his boat. On our way home from our boating and camping trip. We are all obvisously sunburnt big time and are completely wiped out. It was so much fun though!

Melissa's Baptizm

2009-09-23T20:47:00.000-07:00

This last Saturday was a very, very, very special day for my Siter-in-law Melissa and my Big Brother Tom. Melissa was baptized this last Saturday by her husband Tom. The thing that makes this experience even more special is that my brother was ordained a priest right before he baptized her. If you know ANYTHING about my family you know that this was and is a VERY Specail experience that took place. The spirit was so STRONG on Saturday!! There were two Special indivuals that spoke that day and it was my Grandma and Grandpa Lloyd, there were songs that were sang, prayers that were given. The bishop of their ward spoke breifly and welcomed Melissa into the ward. He said that he normally doesn't do that until Sunday, but he felt impressed to extend a welcome then. He was so cinsere, he did something that isn't done very often. He started talking to Tom and Melissa and telling them what a special day that this was. He got choked up and started to cry, apoligized for his tears and with shaken hands grabbed a pin that was holding his tie together, took the back off and took off the pin. He then looked at Tom with tears in his eyes and said, "I don't normally do this,....(crying in a shaken voice said) but I'm going to give this tie pin to you..... I want you to have this....go ahead and put it on.....( he then made a joke about not wanting to be responable for poking him :) Tom put the pin on his tie and looked up at his Bishop..... His Bishop very sincerly said, "I give you this pin because every time you see this pin on your tie I want you to remember that building right over there (we were at the Cole RD. building right by the Boise, Idaho Temple)and every time you put this tie one I want it to remind you of your goal to get to the temple. He then looked at Melissa and said, "and every time you see him put this tie on, I want you to remember the goal to get to the temple." (the tie pin said "ETERNITY") It was so neat to see and experience this specail day with them. I know that this church is true and the Lord is working on turning the hearts of the children to their fathers and the hearts of the fathers to their children. I have seen it happen in my family!!! I love this!!! Tom and Melissa look so Happy!!! I'm happy for them and I am excited for them. May the Lord bless them in their lives and pour his love upon them. We love you guys and are so thrilled to have been able to have been there. We wouldn't of missed it ;) Very Happy for you Both! All the family that could have been there was there. Allan, Emily , Abby, Donny, Ann, Alex, Glen, the kids and I, Uncle Wade, Uncle Blake, Grandma Maisey, Grandma and Grandpa Lloyd, and many of thier family ward. The bishop also talked to them about support, that they had it from their family and from their ward family. The room was packed! It was a Great turn out. The mission president was also able to be there. :)

Infinite Power of Hope

2009-09-22T09:40:00.001-07:00

Check the new lead on the You Tube Video on the side bar. Great message of Hope for anyone who wants to hear a great message check it out. Short and to the point. Love it! Happy Tuesday Everyone!

Boise State Game

2009-09-13T14:29:00.000-07:00

Last night we went to the Boise State VS Miami Game with Jarom and Corinne. It was a lot of fun to go to a Bronco Game. I must admit it is our FIRST game that we have been to together. We've been going to BSU on and off for a few years and we finally went to a game. Yes Honey, I am looking forward to going to many, many more ;) The Bronco's slaughtered the Miami Red Hawks with a score of 48-0..... OUCH!! With the game coming to a close we we're wondering if BSU was going to let them have a sympathy touchdown, but nope they didn't. I kinda of felt sorry for the other team, but all I can say is GO BRONCO"S!!!!!!!! After the game Corinne and Jarom followed us to my parents house to go and pick up the kids. Then Ann, Alex, Jarom, Corinne, Glen and I with our kids went to Cold Stone and got some Ice Cream. It was a fun night!! Thanks for a Great evening everyone!! They ride a Bronco out onto the feild at the beginning of all of their games!! The players coming out onto the field. Love the face Jarom!! :) Thanks for taking me to the game Babe!! Corinne and I Look at the score board!!! All I can say is BOISE............STATE...............!!!! Jarom and Corinne

Scentsy Contribute 2009

2009-09-01T12:16:00.001-07:00

4th of July Lloyd Family Reuion

2009-07-30T09:47:00.000-07:00

Glen and I have been up in Fort McMurray, Alberta in Canada for the summer for his internship and we weren't sure if we were going to be able to make it to the Lloyd family reunion that my parents and family were planning, but when Glen came home one day he told me that his schedule was changed back to 10 days on and 4 days off and that it was going to be a 6 day weekend due to Canada Day then we decided to drive down to visit and support my parents in all of the hard work and efforts in planning the reuion. It was a long drive, but it was totally worth it. We really enjoyed visiting with family and having a good time. Great Job Mom, Dad, and Everyone who helped in planning the reuion we had a Great Time!!! Best Friends, they seriously love each other. Summer Fun Pool Time!!! Levi was throwing the ball for Glen to catch, love this shot..... These two could have stayed in the pool ALL DAY if we let them. They had so much fun! Me and My Sis. Craft Time! Emily Thank You for getting all of the things for this. All of the kids absolutely loved making the Visers with the glitter glue. Making the 3-D shapes out of spiced gum drops and tooth pick was a big hit, even some of the adults had a fun time with that one. Doing so kind of silly dance on the docks :) Daddy and Levi roasting marshmellows by the fire. Can't have a camp fire without roasting marshmellows. Everytime I roast a marshmellow or see someone roasting a marshmellow then I think of my Grandpa Maisey and how every summer as little kids we would go out to Grandpa and Grandma Maisey for a bon fire, winney roast, and roasting marshmellows. Late summer night with our Aunts, Uncles and cousins = Great Times!! I had to throw that in there.

Congrats Isaac!!!!!

2009-06-28T13:00:00.000-07:00

So this Saturday was a big event for my brother-in-law Isaac graduated from high. It is a Big Accomplishment, and now he has his life before him for bigger and better things. I just wanted to give a shout out to Isaac for his High School Success. Congradulations Isaac!!!! We sure do love ya!

Summer Rain...

2009-06-13T15:41:00.000-07:00

So I decided to take the kids outside to play the rain with their unmbrella's. There was this HUGE rain storm and when it started to calm down is when we went out. Grandma Maisey do you reconize the umbrella's "Lady Bug" and "Polly Wog" that's for you we sure do love ya! P and A had fun play out in the rain with us too. Check out their glasses that their Dad made for them with sticky craft yarn, I LOVE IT!! These are going to be great pics to show them when they get older. Haha :) I love my niece and nephew!

Summer FUN in Fort McMurray, AB. CANADA :)

2009-06-09T19:53:00.000-07:00

During Christmas time we came up to Fort McMurray Canada to visit for Christmas vacation, and while we were up here Glen interviewed with a company called Casman. During spring break if came up here again to help his parents finish the basement and the company made it offical for him to come up for an intership. So May 17th the day after Shem and Reilly's wedding we packed up and came up. Thank you for all that helped us (aka Shana, Jeremy, Corinne, Carmen, Marci, Jarom, Lynn, Ryan, Jandy, Matthew, Isacc, Jennie, Dayna, Mom, and Dad...... everyone you guys and gals are AWESOME!!!!! It really helped out alot :) So now we are here living at Glen's parents house for the summer and it's been realy nice up here so far. :) Shem and Reilly are staying at our house for the summer while we are up, that is a huge relief for us. I've been filling my time with being a MOM and I am LOVING IT!! That's what I want to do when I get home is be a FULL TIME STAY AT HOME MOM, and go to school part time. I really feel strong that I need to get my degree, so I've been working on it one class at a time, hopefully this next fall I can take a couple of classes, we'll see. I have also been cooking meals, we are going on a schedule where I cook one week, Mom cooks one week, and then Cinda cooks, and then we start all over again. So this week is my week off. It actually wasn't to bad to cook for as many people as I had to which was around 16. I have also been getting back into exercising, which I love!! I want to minor in exercise science and my sister-in-law Cinda and I are starting to train for a Marothon, that's right a MAROTHON. I am way excited but I know that it is going to be alot of work. For now I run a few miles a day take a day off from running but I do P90X (LOVE IT!!!) then I add a mile to the miles that I ran the previous day. If any of you are interested in joining us just let us know, we'd love to have you! K and B are having a Blast playing with their cousins everyday. The time the sun goes down really throws them off though. It doesn't get dark here until 10:30- 11:30pm and after that it's dusk and then the sun comes up at 4am So needless to say there is plenty of daylight up here. :) We are enjoying ourselves and we are looking forward to a Great Summer. :) Glen is enjoying his time working at Casman and has a schedule of 10 days on and 4 days off. So we really enjoy our time with him when he's home, because he's gone a lot. We miss every back at home and hope that everyone has a Fun and Safe summer. I'm also going to be doing Scentsy while I'm up here, so I'm excited to see how that goes. I have a few people how are going to be throwing parties up here, so that's super exciting and then I have the convention in August. SCENTSY SPIRIT!!!! Wooh Woot!! It's a thing they do at convention ;) Here are a few pictures from a trip that some of us ladies took the kids to the park and it tells about it below. Cinda, Dayna and I decided to take the kids to the park up here and we decided to the walk there it was a nice walk and it was a beautiful day 26 C. In my mind that is freezeing, but it really is warmer. The kids played on the toys, swang on the swings and Dayna took the kids across the slideing zipper. I don't know if that is what it is really called but that's what I'm calling it. We had a fun time with the kids and really enjoyed our day.

2009-06-09T19:30:00.000-07:00

Congratulations you TWO! Off they went..... See you guys!! Reception FUN!!!! Bride and Groom..... Shem and Reilly with the immediate family. I LOVE THESE GUYS!!!! I married into the best family ever!!

Wedding TIME!!!!! Congrats Shem and Reilly!!!!!!!

2009-06-09T19:12:00.000-07:00

Trying to get a shot of the bride and groom with their neices and nephews on the purnell side. Ya....:) That was fun, you can say that they were quit rowdy! :) Shem with his brother's, we miss you Adam! (But we know your involved in a great work of the Lord) Nice one Jarom! Haha :) They are offical!!! Congratulations!!! They look so happy!! Shem and Reilly married in the Boise Idaho Temple on May 16th 2009. Welcome, Welcome to the family Reilly you were such a beautiful bride and Shem you looked pretty sharp. You two make a Great Couple! We Love you guys!

Cousins!

2009-06-09T19:05:00.000-07:00

On Thursday night a few days before Shem and Reilly's wedding Reilly had the oppurtunity to get her endowments out at the Boise Iaho temple, and for us and the other siblings of Shem to go we needed babysitters. So a Big THANK YOU to Jennie, Isacc, and Dayna for watching the bunch of kids. You guys are AWESOME!!!!! Here are a few fun pictures that they took of the kids that night. :) So Cute!!!

Mother Daughter Fun!

2009-06-09T18:56:00.001-07:00

Oh I love you Kimmi!!!! Fishy Face!!

Home Evening Activity

2009-06-09T18:47:00.001-07:00

We had our good friends Jayna, Nate, Ethan and Kyle over for a BBQ and Home Evening before we came up here to Canada, we had our lesson on plants, flowers and tree's all these things that heavenly father created for us. For our activity we plant a rose bush in between two of the roses bushes that we already had. It was fun having them over. We sure do miss you guys! Hope that you haved a great summer!

Catch UP TIME!! Raining Spring Days

2009-06-09T18:27:00.001-07:00

This is one of the rainy days that took place this Spring during the first weeks of May. It was fun to watch the kids watch the rain. They found it fasinating that it was raining so hard.

Girls Weekend/ McCall, ID. 2009

2009-05-06T20:22:00.001-07:00

So this weekend three of my best friends and I a went up to McCall, ID for a girls weekend getaway. The four of us have know each other since junior high and have been through alot together. It was such a nice and relaxing weekend. I had a Blast visiting with everyone! We have decided that we are going to start getting together once a year for a girls weekend getaway. I am excited and looking forward to next years. :) We started the weekend meeting at my house and then going to a Temple Session at the Boise Idaho Temple. It was nice to go to the temple with everyone, it was the first time that we have all gone to a temple seeion together, it was nice. I remember Ruth mentioning a few different things in the celestial room that will stick with me. She mentioned honoring our husbands and trying our best to be the best wife's that we could be to them. After the temple we went to Costa Veda of Eagle Rd. and Ustick......sooo good! After that we came back to my place changed our clothes and packed the car. Over the weekend we went to dinner at Crusty's Pizza, watched Bride Wars, talked and laughed all night, found out how many kids we are all going to have by using a needle and thread. So what you do is string thread through the eye of the needle and then hold it over the wrist, if it spins in a circle it's a girl and if it goes up and down it's a boy and then it will spin different direction until it tells you how many kids you'll have. When it's done it will completely stop. I believe that it said that I would have 4 or 5 kids. (Haha, that was fun, I tried it on my mom and it said how many kids she's had and stopped)We had a yummy breakfast Saturday morning, did a super cute fun frame craft (that Corinne put together), had a nice lunch, discussed the get together for next year, played pool, fooled around in the exercise room, had chicken alfardo, with brocilli, and fresh tossed salad, with sprakling grape juice, soaked our feet in a vanilla spiced bath melt, followed with a sugar lemon pomagrante foot scrub, buffed and shined our nails, followed with painting, had ice cream and frozen grasshopper cookies (so good....), watched Dreamgirls (kind of, half of us fell asleep), went to bed and woke to a hot cooked breafast, after breakfast we cleaned and got ready for pictures. We all got dressed up in Black and White Classy outfits and had fun taking pictures (we had to be creative though because it was raining outside) We had a fun filled weekend and made some new and fun memories that we will treasure for life. I am truely blessed to have these ladies in my life, I love, love, love these women. Thanks for a Great Weekend Ladies!!! Here are some of the pictures that we took that weekend......

Food Storage

2009-04-09T15:03:00.000-07:00

For family night this passed monday we talked about food stoage and the importance of having a food storage. I had gone to the store with Kimberly and Levi to get the start of it, and then displayed it on the counter for the kids to see. We had a good time and are now are our way to starting our food storage. Yay!

Broken Toe

2009-04-09T14:51:00.001-07:00

So the other weekend I went to the Post Office to Mail an Envelope and I ran inside,opened the first door really quick to see if anyone was at the front for me to mail the package, saw through the glass window that their was someone there, turned to go back to my car to get my belongings and on my way out my toe hit or got caught on the door jam or the door and broke my toe. I wasn't quite sure if it was broke or just popped out of joint, but Glen took me to the hosiptal and it was definately broken. Ya, fun stuff, eh.... It's wierd though because even though it was broken it didn't hardly swell or bruise.

Busy Weekend

2009-03-01T16:08:00.000-08:00

So this weekend was quite busy here at the Purnell house hold. I made a baptismal cake for my cousin-in-law's (so to say)little girl Jillian. I was very pleased with how it turn out and later I heard that it was Great and that everyone loved it. That's always nice to hear! :) Then on Saturday I had a Scentsy booth at the kids fair with Brandie. Which went Great!!!! I am excited for next years, for sure!! Brandie and I had both bought was product as inventory to take to the fair and we almost sold all of it and we got some great leads on top of it. All and all it was a really good weekend, besides the fact the I lost my voice, but that's ok :)

Happy Birthday Glen!

2009-02-23T07:07:00.000-08:00

Glen's Birhtday was on Saturday, and now he's 27! For his birthday he started out by getting breakfast made for him. We had waffles, sausage, eggs, and chocolate milk. After breakfast/bunch we headed down to the fairgrounds to the horse affairs and watched his brother Jarom compete. After that he came home and did some homework,and then I suprised him with a message at the Two Rivers Salon and Spa here in Eagle. Which he loves.....he could probably go for one everyday! :) When he came home we took the kids over to my mom's and then we went out to see a movie. We saw "Taken" which was pretty good, and then we went to The Texas Road House for dinner. He sure is the Best! Hope your birthday was Great! The kids and I love you!!

Pay It Forward

2009-02-02T13:13:00.000-08:00

I am participating in the Pay it Forward exchange(thanks Corinne this sounds like fun!) Keep in mind you have a whole YEAR to do this. So,here it is for those of you that would like to join me. This is how it works: Pay It Forward Exchange is based on the concept of the movie "Pay it forward". I will send a hand made gift to the first three people who leave a comment to this post on my blog requesting to join the PIF exchange. All the gifts will be made and posted out 'sometime within the next year'. How exciting to not know when your surprise package will arrive! What you need to do in return, is pay it forward by making the same promise on your blog. This Exchange is only open to those with active websites or blogs. ALL YOU HAVE TO DO IS PROMISE TO POST THIS SAME 'PAY IT FORWARD' MESSAGE ONTO YOUR BLOG, WHICH MUST BE ACTIVE IN ORDER TO PLAY. YOU WILL PAY IT FORWARD TO THREE PEOPLE WHO COMMENT ON YOUR BLOG. I'd love for you to join me! Will you? Other comments are welcome, but only the first three will be my Pay It Forward recipients. Come and join me who doesn't love a gift or giving gifts??? I copied this from my sister-in-law's blog, but I'm jioning in the fun. So for those of you who'd like to jion in the fun. Jump on and let me know, remember it's the first 3. Looking orward to hearing from some of you! :)

Get together with Mariah and Ben

2009-02-02T07:28:00.000-08:00

This weekend Glen and I got together with one of my cousins that I haven't seen in a really, really, really, long time. On Saturday Mariah and I went to the mall did a little shopping, then we went to the temple with our hubbies and my friend Jayna. After the temple Mariah, Ben, Glen and I went to the Cheescake Factory. They sure have some yummy food and Awesome Cheesecake. We had a really great weekend and enjoyed spending time with them. Thanks for coming to visit you guys!!!

Winter Fun!

2009-01-08T18:35:00.000-08:00

On Monday night, when we did have snow (I'm sad that it doesn't last very long here) my sister Ann decided to make a snow truck. It actually is really Awesome and very creative :) I went to drop a part to her vaccum that I had borrowed and then I was heading to the store, but Kimmi wanted to stayed and as she said "Hang out with Auntie Ann and Alex" So Ann so yah sure, that would be fun and I took Levi with me to get groceries. When I got back she asked me to get my camera so she could take pictures. So here they are, Kim and Alex helped for maybe 5-10 minutes before they got to cold. Good Times! :) Good Job Ann!!

Missy's Bridal Shower/ Tom and Missy's Wedding

2009-01-05T22:15:00.000-08:00

Christmas in Canada

2009-01-04T19:56:00.001-08:00

We ended up going to Canada for Christmas this year and had a BLAST, the car ride was very, very, very, LONG, but it was totally worth it. We stayed in Canada for a week and then came back for my brother Tom's wedding or we would still be up there. The trip ended up being 3000 miles around trip, and for the most part our kids were Awesome in the car!! Thank goodness :) On Christmas Eve my Mother-in-law had set up for Santa to come and see the grandkids. So after dinner we were pretending to get ready to do their traditional Christmas Pagent, and low and behold Santa comes to the door. He was all dressed up in his suit and had his bag filled with toys to give to each one of the grandkids. It was so much fun to watch Kimmi and Levi seeing Santa and sitting on his lap. Kimmi turns to me and says, "Mother Santa Claus is here!" After Santa Left we got together, and I read the Christmas story out of the Bible, we sang songs about Christ and the rest of the family acted out the story while I read. I'm truely thankful for this Christmas season and the time that we had to spend Christmas with family and friends. We really had a Great Christmas! Glen was a sheperd, Levi was a sheep, Kimmi ws an angel, and I was the narriator Shem was Joshep, Rielly was Mary, and Ryna was the donkey. Ah... to Fun!! Two little angels! :) Opening gifts from Santa, he got a truck...rvvvooommm! Kimmi got a Dolly and ended up naming her Bluey.. Thanks Santa!

Getting ready for Christmas...

2008-12-17T12:28:00.000-08:00

A couple of weeks ago we pulled out the tree and started setting up for Christmas. Glen put up the tree with the kids help and and I started making some cookies. I put on some Christmas music and we got to work. While the kids helped Daddy I was in between making the cookies and putting up the other decorations, nativity, snowman wonderland, and of course hanging up the stockings. It was a fun night for us and we are really looking forward to Christmas!! We are heading up to Canada for the holiday season, and then we'll be headed home for my brother Tom's Wedding. Life keeps us very, very busy, but we love it. :) We are wishing everyone a Very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

2008-11-25T14:22:00.001-08:00

You are thoughtful and care very deeply for your family. A loving home is of great importance to you and you always try to make people feel welcome. Although you have a great capacity to love, you also have a great capacity to hurt, so at times you can be sensitive. You're firm when you need to be, but people trust your judgment and appreciate the kind way you always handle things.

2008-11-25T14:21:00.001-08:00

Take the Quiz and Share Your Results!

I've been Tagged

2008-11-14T09:32:00.001-08:00

1.Where is your cell phone? In my Purse 2.Where is your significant other? BSU Study his math, way to go Babe! 3.Your hair color? Blond with light to medium high lights 4.Your mother? Hard Worker 5.Your father? Understanding 6.Your favorite thing? Relaxing and spending time with my Hubby 7.Your dream last night? Nothing 8.Your dream/goal? Financial Freedom, Happy Family, To go through school and get a PHD 9.The room you’re in? My bed room 10.Your hobby? working out, biking, kick boxing 11.Your fear? Losing my spouse or a child 12.Where do you want to be in 6 years? On our way to getting our PHD's, living somewhere else ( I've lived in Biose my whole life and I'm ready for an advanture, I still love you guys! ) Have another child 13.Where were you last night?Scentsy Party- We practice safe Scents 14.What you’re not? Closed Off 15.One of your wish list items? Bedroom set, Lincoln Navigator, Dream Home (We got our work cut out for us Honey! ;) 16.Where you grew up? Boise 17.The last thing you did? Played with the kids 18.What are you wearing? Jeans with a black top & white camio underneath 19.Your t.v.? on, kids watching Sleeping Beauty 20.Your pet? Opal 21.Your computer? Gateway 22.Your mood? Confidenant, Happy, Blessed 23.Missing someone? Hubby 24.Your car? In the Garage 25.Something you’re not wearing? Shoes 26.Favorite store? Kohl's/Target 27.Your summer? Awesome!! Canada, Weddings, Family, Friends, Scentsy.....FUN!! 28.Love someone? Family Forever 29.Favorite color? red & yellow 30.Last time you laughed? this morning/kids are funny :) 31.Last time you cried? Monday afternoon, sometimes we just need to cry I am tagging Tarah Harris, Brooke Thurman, Brittany Neilson, and Katie Truley Have fun girls I look forward to looking at yours! ;)

Just for Fun!

2008-11-14T09:29:00.001-08:00

You Belong in 1976

Bold and brash, you take life by the horns. Whether you're partying or protesting, you give it your all!

What Year Do You Belong In?

Halloween Party

2008-11-03T07:58:00.001-08:00

Everyone in costume. Girls time to make a funny :) Kathy, Jayna, Ashley, Ann,& Mom,....don't forget the puppy down at the bottom tugging on Ann's pants. Time to Eat... There was lots of yummy fun food to eat.... From Frankenstien Fingers Veggie Pizza.... White Chocolate Oreo Truffle Eye Balls Spider Web Meat, Cheese, and Bean Dip We also had chicken sandwich ghost graveyard, Spider eggs, chips and dip, Autumn Sunset Witch's Brew.....( Which the kids were fascinated by, they stood there at the table watching the fog boil over the bowl until it was done) We also had apple cider. Glen and Kyle We played Buzz Word Girls against Boys.... Donny started the boys off.... Jayna for the girls... Nate, Jason, and Glen Ann, Mom, Ashley and I I had to capture Glen dancing with my mom.... later on everyone watch a video of this lady online teaching people how to dance to Thriller... It's totally 80's, but we had sooo much fun! Donny getting started on the Halloween ginger bread house. Everyone got there turn. The night was a hit! We loved spending the time with family, and friends. There was food, games, Haunted Ginger Bread houses we made, dancing, Glen even had a fire going in the fire pit on the back patio. It couldn't have been a more fun day! The weather was even good! Not to cold, over cast, and the wind was blowning earlier that day which made our lawn get covered in leaves. We plan on making the Halloween Party a tradition for years to come!

2008-10-27T08:33:00.001-07:00