TAYLOR FAMILY

TRAMPOLINE!

2010-04-12T11:32:00.000-07:00

2009 ANNIE

2010-04-12T11:08:00.000-07:00

One of my favorite memories from Summer 2009 was staying in St. George at Mont and Sue's condo for a weekend and taking Bailey and her cousin Reagan to see Annie at the Tuacahn Amphitheatre. I wanted to make it a special occasion and to teach girls that you dress up when you attend a play so I took them shopping for new dresses and hair bows to wear later that evening.
They were so cute and acted very grown up. In fact quite a few ladies commented on what well behaved children I had. We LOVED the play and were delighted get to meet Annie after the show and have her sign our t-shirts for a memorable souvenir.

2009 PERFORMANCE SEASON

2010-04-12T10:26:00.000-07:00

Bailey's was SO excited last year because her solo was from High School Musical:

"Here and now, it's time for celebration. We finally figured it out, yeah, yeah. That all our Dreams, they have no limitations, that's what it's all about!"

Our cousin Reagan came to support Bug and watch her dance.Bug and Saisha

"tRoUbLe"

2009 MOTHER'S DAY

2010-04-12T09:55:00.000-07:00

Dear Grandma Faye, I LOVE you so much and I hope we see each other again someday! I really miss you on Thursdays cause that was Grandma Day and we would take you out to lunch and you would let me drink your coke cola. I liked to dance and sing with you and I loved your puffy hair and the smell of your perfume. Thanks for letting me wear your lipstick and make up! You have a pretty smile and I think about you at night when I fall asleep because you make me happy. I know you are watching me from Heaven so I try to real good! I LOVE you Grandma Faye!!! Bug xoxoxox Visiting Grandma Faye on Mother's day.. The kids put Purple flowers on her grave.
Dylan, Bug and Lukie

Ky and the Boys

Grandma Kathy and the grand kids

Bailey giving Gram Faye a Mother's day hug. Even though she is gone she's always on our minds, we keep her in our hearts and are so grateful for all the wonderful memories we have of her. One day while at the mall we walked past the perfume counter and Bailey says to me ,"Mom, heaven must be really close cause I can smell Grandma Faye."
I truly believe that she's watching over us and that she's never far away. We LOVE and Miss you Grams xxOxx!

2009 Soccer Season

2010-04-12T09:28:00.000-07:00

I always figured that Luke would be the biggest child out of his playmates his same age because he was such a big baby. Apparently NOT the case.

He was by far the smallest child on his soccer team even the girls stood a head taller than him.

It was Bug's second year of Soccer so she was pretty much a pro at it.

She ended up being quite the little player this year and took after her daddy plaing GOALIE.

GYMNASTICS

2009-05-14T16:14:00.001-07:00

The kids took morning classes at the Gymnastics Training Center with a few of their neighborhood friends The big girls did really well and improved on their cartwheels and bar work. Lukie and Aly were mostly interested in jumping in the pit and doing their own thing. Riley, Bailey, Aly, Saydi and Lukie

ST. GEORGE ON THE FLY

2009-04-07T12:15:00.000-07:00

Last week Luke had bronchitis and could not get feeling better. We decided last minute to pack the family all up and head down to St. George to get out of the nasty cold and into some sunshine. (Hoping that a bit of fresh air would help clear up his little lungs, my poor boy.) I needed it too, for sanity sake! (I had been cooped up in the house way too long with sick kids!) We kept breathing each other’s air with nowhere to go, probably bouncing the same sickness around and around because we couldn't get outside to play?!?! The first morning there we took the kids on a hike to Red Cliffs, one of my personal favorites.

We couldn't have asked for better weather, it was sunny and not a single cloud in the sky. In College when Russ and I were dating we took a summer Botany class together at UVSC and went on a field trip to Red Cliff's Desert Reserve and Recreation area to see this old cotton wood tree, supposedly the oldest in Utah.

Red Cliffs Recreation Area is located just off of I-15, 15 miles north of St George, Utah near Quail Creek reservoir and is part of the Red Cliffs Reserve.

The camping area is open year round but I like the spring and fall the best when the plants are in bloom and the creeks are running. The fall colors along the creek are spectacular!

There are several marked hiking trails that lead you through amazing red rock formations and to waterfalls and Indian ruins.

Our favorite part is where the trail disappears into the creek bed and you have to scale the walls like Spiderman and use these footholds carved out of the rock, luckily the BLM has anchored a rope for balance but it's steep and wouldn't take much to slip into the water.

Luke was too little to maneuver the steps by himself so here he is balancing precariously on daddy's shoulders. (made my toes curl a bit!)

Bailey and Luke tagged this adventure, “THE COOLEST HIKE EVER!"

Bailey was so excited to see flowers, acting almost like she'd never seen them before.
(I'm sure because it's been such a long winter in Salt Lake)

Some areas are too steep to walk upright so you have to sit down on your bum and slide.

Luke was loving every minute of it!
I did it myself..........in case you are wondering.

Bailey was so brave and did a Great job by herself!

Russ only had to help her a little bit on the way back down.

Bug walked around with my camera for awhile taking pictures of every flower and flowering tree she could find so we could remember how beautiful the flora was on our hike.

It was a PERFECT Day!

It's not unusual for us to run into someone we know down in St. George. I have family that lives there and both Russ and I went to school at Dixie but this weekend we ran into family members from Salt Lake who all had the same idea as us to get out of the winter weather. We met up with

Russell's sister Christine and her husband Reid and their two children Reagan and Cole for dinner. Coincidentally at the Pizza Factory we ran into Russell's other sister Kathryn and her husband John with their five children who were down there for Kathryn tennis tournament and business. It was a bit like a mini family reunion.Bug and Luke posing with their best friends/cousins.

So good to see my kids smiling and feeling better!

Swimming at the hotel with Reagan.

Out to lunch

Visiting the Old fashioned Candy shop off of Main.

Luke was in absolute H E A V E N!

Dinner at Aunt Annie's house.

Two of my uncles were also in town to do a little golfing.

Paul was here from Alaska and Gord flew down from Salt Lake to meet up for the weekend. Russ golfed with the boys one morning while Annie and I spent the day soaking up some Vitamin D at the pool with the kids.

Bug and Luke were in the water that day a good 8 hours! (NOT an exaggeration by any means!)

Bailey was swimming like a FISH and Lukie did a good job doggie paddling in the shallow end.

We had to bribe them out of the pool for dinner!

By the end of the trip everyone was sunburned, waterlogged, windblown and completely hiked out but couldn't be any hApPiEr!!!

The very last night we stayed in Mont and Sue's condo and Russ took the kids (one at a time) on a scooter ride.

Spontaneous family vacations are the B E S T!

Pictures with Santa

2008-12-22T15:55:00.001-08:00

We've done a lot of things involving Santa this year but Christmas wouldn't be the same without heading to the local shopping center and getting a picture done with the Mall Santa. Of course the very second that we jump into line "Santa" had to go and feed his reindeer. (I think that's mall code for Santa's gone for lunch) We had to wait over an hour for him to finally return. Luckily we had a lot of dinning options in the food court and a few good friends to help pass the time as quickly as possible. I'm not usually a cheap person, but I'll admit I was a little miffed after waiting in line so long. I asked Santa's helper if I could just use my own camera so I didn't have to pay for one of their pictures and the guy in charge told me that the mall policy is that parents are allowed 3 pictures with their own camera but they don't ever tell you that unless you ask. He was a nice Santa and asked each of the kids what they wanted and if they had been good all year. Luke said yes he's been a good boy but not all year. That sometimes he's been a little bit naughty and mom has to get after him and send him to the naughty chair. (the things kids come up with!) Based on what Lukie told Santa I sure hope I get a present this year!

Pre-School Christmas Program

2008-12-22T15:31:00.000-08:00

This is the second year that Bailey has done a Christmas Program with "Children's Discovery". Last year she sang "I'm the littlest Christmas Tree" and she was with the group of little 3 year olds. This year she has moved up an age group and sang the Big kids song "Hey, Hey Pack up the Sleigh". She did such a great job! We could hear her voice over the top of all the other children just belting her little heart out. We were so proud of her!

It's a yearly tradition that the Dad's get to be Rudolf when the kids sing "Rudolf the red nose reindeer." All the men get up in front of everyone with their big funny red noses and sing with the children. Russ was a great sport and continued to wear his nose until it was taken by Luke so he could feel big and manly by wearing one too.

Our Future Rudolf the Red Nose Reindeer!

This is Bug and her best girl friends from school, Saydi and Riley. We all live in the same neighborhood and I have become good friends with their mothers Strawberry and Cindy. The girls did such a fantastic job at the program that afterwards we all went to McDonalds to get a little treat.

Breakfast with Santa

2008-12-22T15:19:00.000-08:00

Last year for Christmas we did the Polar Express in Heber and it was fun, everyone really enjoyed it. This year we decided to mix things up a little and do something different so we saw Santa at Thanksgiving Point's "Breakfast with Santa'. Just thought that it is worth mentioning that Dylan wore this hat the entire day, he was so funny about it and wouldn't take it off for anything. He spent the rest of the day at my house with the kids and he even insisted on wearing it during his nap. (he told me because his daddy gave it to him.)

We had quite a group with us this year: Grandma Kathy, Aunt Rolene and Jeanine, Kyle, Dylan, Luke, Bailey and Reagan. The breakfast was only so so but the activities and entertainment made it worth it. They had a wide variety of things for the kids to do while they were waiting for the "Big man in Red" to show up.

We decorated yummy sugar cookies, talked to the Ginger Bread man, had our photo taken with the grinch, the girls had their faces painted while the boys participated in a few "reindeer games". I was going to include the photo of the kids with the Grinch, who promised the children that he has had a change of heart and that he is no longer grinchy. But Reagan wouldn't go near him. When I asked her about it she told me that she doesn't like him and that the Grinch could be a "Stranger Danger" because she doesn't know who is in the Grinchy suit. Bailey on the other hand was petting his fur and asking if she could see if his heart had actually grown since becoming a good guy.

While waiting in line for Santa they had booths set up with paper and pencils so the kids could write down their wish list. Bug wrote down that she'd like an American Girl doll, some puzzles of the continents and a few Early reader books. Luke knew just off the top of his head what he needed for christmas, SUPERHEROS, so he didn't have to write anything down. Dylan asked for a bike, which he's wanted FOREVER. But his dad told him he couldn't have one until he pooped in the potty so he thought he'd try to convince Santa instead. My cute niece Reagan came already prepared with one that she had made at home earlier that morning with her mom.

(I know, so cute!)

The girls followed the "Sugar Plum Fairy' around until she would pose for a picture. I not quite sure but I think Kyle was following her too. She was really cute! It turned out to be a really fun day!

Saint Nicholas Eve

2008-12-22T12:24:00.000-08:00

This year Russell and I decided that the kids were old enough to introduce them to a beloved German tradition that I grew up celebrating. It is a Dutch/German holiday called St. Nicholas Eve. It is celebrated on the 5th of December and as the story goes St. Nicholas and his companion Zwarte Piet (Black Pete) travel on horses through out the country side delivering small toys and goodies to the good girls and boys. Children would place their newly polished shoes outside in hopes of receiving something special and occasionally they would set out a carrot and a bucket of water to refresh the riders horses. This tale is something to look forward to if you have been good, minding your parents and behaving like a proper child but it has a much darker side than the American tale of Santa Claus, who only leaves a lump of Cole for those who have been naughty. This is where Zwarte Piet steps in. According to the more modern Saint Nicholas legend, Zwarte Piet is a servant who accompanies Saint Nicholas on his holiday travels. In some versions, it is alleged that Saint Nicholas once liberated a young slave named Peter, who decided to serve Nicholas (as a free servant) rather than enjoy liberty alone. Zwarte Piet is today commonly depicted as a black man in the colorful pantaloons, feathered cap and ruffles of a Renaissance European Page, a tradition based on a single illustration in a book published in 1850.
Zwarte Piet is often portrayed as a mischievous but rarely a mean-spirited character. Parents used to tell their children that if they have been good, Zwarte Piet will bring them gifts and sweets, but if they have been bad, Piet will scoop them up, stuff them in his huge dufflebag and spirit them away to Spain for a year to teach them manners as punishment. Though this is increasingly uncommon nowadays, he can still carry some type of whip or scourge, especially a birch, which could be used for birching or in modern words, to chastise children who have been too naughty to deserve presents. The character is believed to have been derived from pagan traditions of evil spirits.

After listening to the legend of Saint Nicholas and Zwarte Piet the kids were excited to find a pair of shoes and set them out on the porch. We had polished their Sunday shoes but they both agreed that they had been especially good all year long and decided instead on setting out their moon boots which were much bigger and could hold a lot more. That evening Bailey fell right to sleep. However, Lukie was up half the night, terrified about what he might encounter the following morning and required verbal reassurance all evening long that he had indeed been a good boy. The next morning Bailey ran for the front door in excitement and found her moon boots filled to the brim with all kinds of treats. Luke was a little more apprehensive, not quite sure if his boots or Zwarte Piet was going to greet him on the porch. He was more than relieved to find that his moon boots were also stuffed with small gifts and goodies and of course a note from St. Nicholas' companion. It said that children must mind their parents because they love them and know what is best for them. To always use your manners and be on your best behavior. Be understanding of others and always use kind words. Be selfless and giving to those in need. If you continue to do these things then you will never have to worry about Black Pete. So, I have quickly come to the realization that there is absolutely nothing wrong with instilling a little bit of fear in your youngsters. I haven't had to remind Luke once since Dec. 5th to be a good boy. He has been an absolute model child and we are very proud of him. As you can see this particular tradition has worked rather well for our family. (as I'm sure it has for many other families throughout the world) Now I totally understand why my parents insisted on celebrating this fabulous German holiday year after year. (besides the fact that my father, Uwe, is German) You can never have too many reminders to be on your best behavior. It is definitely something that we continue through out the years with our little ones.

Bailey and her loot
Lukie relieved to have treats in his shoes instead of the alternative.

Saint Nicholas Eve has taken the place of our Christmas Stockings. We figure that the kids are so inundated with things on Christmas morning that the stockings are just too much for them. It has been a fun way to continue to celebrate and pass down the traditions of my German heritage.
What Luke thinks about the Switch and the bag.

Not having it!

2008 THANKSGIVING

2008-12-22T11:22:00.001-08:00

Grand America

Over the years our extended families have gotten too big to get together under one roof for dinner. Our sweet little grandmother has passed away and she was usually the one to hold Thanksgiving Dinner in her home, since it was the only one large enough to accommodate a big group. So we have resorted to a new family tradition, Dinner at the Grand America Hotel. It is a special occasion and something my children look forward to all year long.
The Hotel was decorated for the Holiday season with Christmas trees in every corner, life size vignettes and Gingerbread Houses too big to eat. Dinner was a massive buffet with all the traditional Thanksgiving feast in addition to crab legs, prime rib and a Chocolate fountain with an endless assortment of goodies to dip. (Lukies favorite) They had a children's buffet with chicken strips, hot dogs, french toast and just about anything else the kids could possibly want. I loved the fact that after we were finished eating we didn't have to worry about cleaning up the kitchen or doing the dishes. Instead, we went to the movies! Mom and I skipped out a bit early and went to see Australia (Oh Hugh!) while the men watched football and let the kids play at home. Russell put a Turkey breast in the oven while we were at the show so we could all have a Turkey sandwich and a piece of pie when we got home.

Just let me reiterate that I absolutely, 100%,

L-O-V-E this tradition!This is the second year that Rolene, John and Jaime have celebrated Thanksgiving with us. We hope it continues for years to come.

Janine and Darcy
Luke dipped everything imaginable in the Chocolate fountain: Strawberries, pineapple, cheese, hot dogs, turkey, chicken strips, crab legs, sausages, grapes, cake, fingers, his tongue and I'm sure he would have tried his head if we weren't watching him properly.

Luke was completely drenched in chocolate.

(I'm talking literally from head to toe.)

A Magical Day

2008-11-18T16:42:00.000-08:00

I know what you're thinking,

"Wow, Bell and Snow White, what the heck are they doing in town?"

The answer to your question is, they were celebrating a

Magical day together at Disney's Princess' on Ice. Bug and I invited Mia and her mother Jenn to join us for a fun girls day out. We went to lunch before the show and the two girls got such a kick out of all the attention they attracted in their Princess costumes. For some reason everyone could easily figure out who Mia was (Snow White) but they just couldn't quite figure out Bug's character (Belle, in case you don't know).

Mind you the majority of people who commented on the costumes were at Olive Garden in the middle of the afternoon, elderly and probably haven't seen a Disney movie since Fantasia was released. But hey, it was still fun to keep them guessing. The show was truly magical, done in trademark Disney style. Bug's favorite part was Belle dancing with her handsome Prince and the number from "It's a Small World." She sat on the edge of her seat with eyes as big as saucers never moving a muscle until intermission. It was entertaining for of all ages and I even found myself a little disappointed when it was over. They did a tremendous job at keeping the excitement level up and flowing from one story to the next. I was impressed to see a wide variety of characters from the older well known Pinocchio to the newer Mulan and Incredibles. My favorite part was being able to hear all the little girls voices over the top of the sound system singing as loud as they possibly could to all their favorite songs. I couldn't help but smile at how adorable these young girls were, singing about their future love and all their wishes coming true. It was strangely reminiscent of myself when I was young, down in my unfinished basement listening to Disney records, rollerskating and singing out loud to all my favorite songs.

Disney is timeless, I guess that's why we all love it so much.

It brings back nostalgic memories of the past and enables us to re create those moments for younger generations.
It was such a fun day with my Bug, well worth every penny!
Even for the ridiculously overpriced $12 snow cone.

Quality time with my boy

2008-11-12T20:57:00.000-08:00

Today my mom took Bailey for the afternoon which allowed Lukie and I to spend some time together. It's not very often that we get good quality, mother son, one on one. I wish I could say that we used it doing something adventurous or creative. But, since he wasn't feeling 100% (gotta love this time of year) we ran a few quick errands then spent the rest of the day at home doing laundry, playing good guy bad guy (guess who I always get to be) and watching as many Batman shows that we could stomach. Periodically Luke would jump up to teach me a new "super hero game" or tell me a lengthy imaginative story then he would kindly pause and wait for me to teach him something new and exciting. I'm not very experienced in the art of boy play so after a few miserably failed attempts at swords the best I could come up with was........ dancing. He didn't seem to mind, we just giggled our heads off at each other acting like such silly goofballs. So I know it might be considered "rushing the season" a little but today I had such an urge to listen to Christmas music. While cleaning the house I busted out the holiday CD's and told Luke to get changed into something more appropriate so we could cut a serious rug. He was on it, and with in seconds he had shed his costume and walked out of the bathroom looking like this, with his hair gelled and sun glasses on. Amazing, I know it's unusual to see the boy with out Super hero garb on. It's a battle every day to convince him to put on "civilian clothing". So you can imagine my surprise when I asked him about his handsome getup, he proceeded to tell me that he no longer wants to go byLuke or Lukie, he would much rather be addressed as Lit'l Russ when he isn't in super hero attire. After all he was wearing Russell's signature back fleece jacket, shades, outdoor shoes and sporting one cool dude attitude. Hilarious! I got such a kick out him dressing up as his Dad to dance with me, what a little gentleman. I didn't have the heart to tell him that his daddy doesn't dance. (sorry Babe, you're good at a lot of things but Dancin' definitely not it.) Luke was an amazing partner, you should have seen him light the floor on fire with his breath taking footwork.

Finally when he could take it no more, Lit'l Russ retreated into the bat cave for a nap. It was such a laid back, ordinary day with out doing anything of major importance. However, I know that these are the days I will remember when my children are grown and gone. I love being home with my kids and I truly enjoyed the day with my very favorite boy.

Happy Halloween

2008-11-05T11:02:00.000-08:00

Halloween is my kids favorite holiday and with good reason it's not every day that you get to dress up and walk around town begging all the neighbors for candy.Bailey was Tinkerbell and Luke was... Guess Who? None other than the freakin' awesome Superman and his side kick Scout the Superdog.
One of Superdogs Super Amazing

Magical abilities is to shoot powerful yellow "lasers" out of his eyeballs.

(not included with costume) What did Superman say to Dash the Incredible?
Mine are BIGGER than yours are!
Adam , Luke and Scout

We are lucky to live in a neighborhood with a lot of little kids so we met up with a group of friends and hit the town together in mass. It was such a beautiful night the weather was like a September evening. The kids loved being able to Trick-or-Treat with out their coats on because then they could show off their costumes.
Saydi, Bug, Riley, Kennedy

Holy moly, I've never seen so much candy! There were quite a few full size Candy bars that Russell and I had to confiscate for Adult inspection (consumption). It's going to take weeks to eat it all and I'm sure grateful that it only comes once a year, we were totally worn out. What a Happy Halloween, hope you all had the same.

Pumpkins

2008-11-04T19:51:00.000-08:00

I'm a little bit behind on my blogging so today I am playing catch-up. Last month Heather and I took the kids to a great Pumpkin patch in West Jordan where you got to pick your very own pumpkin off the vine. Poor little Dylan wasn't feeling well and it sure shows in this picture. I just want to pick him up and give him a love. Russ helped Bug and Lukie scoop the guts out, yucky.
We made it a fun family night and ordered every ones favorite Pizza. Kyle, Dylan and Gram helped carve pumpkins After the carving was over and the Pumpkins were set out on the porch Gram got the kids into jammies and helped settle the boys in by reading them a couple of stories.

A little blurry but you get the picture
Cat by Bailey
Ghost by Dylan
Bat, cause it was the closest thing to a Superhero by Luke

My Grandma Faye

2008-11-01T18:41:00.001-07:00

Donna Faye Bowen Day Rogers
Donna Faye Bowen Day Rogers 2/24/1922 ~ 10/27/2008 Our dear wife, mother, grandmother and friend was born Feb. 24, 1922 and died peacefully on Mon., October 27, 2008 following complications from a stroke. She was at home surrounded by her family. Faye was born on Feb. 24, 1922 to Edith Mary Stagg and Abner Womac Bowen. She was the youngest of nine children. She grew up in Midvale, Utah. She had a lovely singing voice and was invited often to perform in plays, church and special occasions. She graduated from Jordan High School in the spring of 1940. She enrolled in beauty school in Salt Lake City in the fall of 1940. Faye opened her first beauty shop on Main Street in Midvale in Dec. 1941. She married Harold Robert Day on August 17, 1943. He died on Jan. 15, 1954. She married Rex G. Rogers on February 1, 1958. Faye was a member of the L.D.S. Church. She served as Stake and Ward Drama Director and was Coordinator in the Junior Sunday School in the Draper 3rd Ward for many years. She taught the five year old class in Primary for many years. She had a beauty shop, "Faye's Style Shack" in her home in Draper for 50 years. She closed the shop in 2000 at the age of 78. They moved to a lovely new home on Arrow Creek Drive in Draper. She loved her association with the operators and patrons that flowed through the shop over the years. She enjoyed playing games and played monthly with a group of friends from her high school years and with a second group of good friends from Draper right up to her death. She loved going to the movies and went each week with her best friend Avis, whom she loved dearly. She liked to travel and had many nice trips over the years. She loved to attend activities and go to lunch with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She was fun loving and spunky throughout her life. She was happiest when surrounded by her family. She is survived by her husband of 50 year Rex G Rogers and three daughters, Kathleen Klindt, Salt Lake City; Anne Pinarelli, St. George; and Cheryl (Doug) Perkins, Salt Lake City; and three sons, Gordon (Suzanne) Day, Sandy, Utah; Paul Robert (Carmen) Day, Anchorage, Alaska; and LaMont A. (Susan) Day, Draper, Utah. One daughter Kathy preceded her in death. She has 17 grandchildren, 16 great-grand-children and one great-great-granddaughter. The family wishes to thank those that helped us in caring for her these last months. A special thanks to Aundrea, Tim and Yolanda and to the staff of the Highland Care Center.

Luke is 3

2008-10-22T15:16:00.001-07:00

I remember when I was pregnant with Luke, Russ and I went to get my ultrasound and the tech told us it was a boy. Russ had him check 3 times to make sure he wasn't mistaken. It was such a happy day for us because we wanted a boy so badly. Bailey had put an order in for a new teeny tiny little white fluffy puppy but she finally decided that she was satisfied with a baby brother. We all wondered what Luke's personality would be like, since Bailey is such a character, we worried that if he was timid he would end up in his big sisters shadow. He surprised us all and was born with all the personality and charisma that a 10 pounder could hold. Luke is so much like his daddy it just makes me laugh. They both run non-stop all day, everyday and it wears me out! We are working on harnessing Lukie's energies into Athletics and motorcycling and he seems to understand and enjoy them all. He loves to test himself to see how far he can push his little body and he is always making up games to see who can do this or that bigger, better or badder. Luke is boy through and through and yet he remains my little gentleman. He is kind and polite and he always makes sure to open doors for the girls and tell them that they look pretty, Gram Faye in particular. Luke is hilarious and he loves to entertain - not to mention he's a pretty great dancer. Here is my Birthday tribute to the Boy in honor of him turning 3 We were delighted to have boy in our family and he was such a easy baby. I think I was the only mother known to history to have brought home a newborn that slept through the night every night. I had insomnia something terrible and so I stayed up nights on end watching my sweet baby boy sleep.
Two buddies chillin'. Luke has always idolized his daddy.
My little Blue Eyes. We all wondered where he came from since Russ and I both have Brown eyes. Apparently Russ and I both carry a recessive gene that causes blue eyes and we think they're beautiful! If you ask Lukie where he got them he will tell you, "From the sky".

3 of Luke's favorite foods:

Broccoli, Lemonade, Candy

3 of Luke's favorite shows:

Spiderman, Batman, Scoobydoo

3 favorite places Luke has been:

Lagoon with Kaylie, Murray Pool with friends and Cousins, Bear Lake with the Taylor Family

3 of Luke's favorite Things:

Batman Costume, Spiderman Costume, 50 Motorcycle

3 Facts about Luke:

He wears his underpants backwards so he can see which superhero he has on

He is sensitive, kind and tender hearted

He tells the most imaginative stories you've ever heard

Luke's Buddies:

Dylan, AJ, Jager, Bug, Cole, Chance, Josh, Adam, Dad, Brandon,

Gram Faye, Gram Kathy, Rolene, John and Tyler

3 things Luke wants to be when he grows up:

Spiderman with big Muscles, His dad with big Muscles, Motorcycle Guy with big Muscles

3 Things Luke looks forward to about getting older:

"Getting Taller"

"Growing Big Muscles"

"Being a Superhero"

Bailey is 5

2008-10-19T16:22:00.001-07:00

It's hard to believe that I am the mother of a 5 year old. The time has just flown by and I feel like it is getting away from me. It seems just like yesterday that Russell and I brought home this sweet little baby girl with more hair on her head and personality in her body than one person should be allowed. Bailey is such a gift! She has the amazing ability to read people and to connect with everyone and bring joy and happiness into all our lives. She is continually smiling or goofing around, she gets a pure kick out of life and is always searching for the next big adventure. I decided to put 5 of my favorite pictures of Bug throughout the years on this birthday blog, the only problem was looking through all the old pics I realized that they are all my favorite. I had such a hard time breaking it down to just 5. I have truly enjoyed every moment that I have had with my girl. Watching her grow and develop with each new stage has been a joy and a blessing.
Miss Personality
Always making us laugh. She is known for making Dress-ups out of anything, even a bucket.
She grew up so much the day she became a Big Sister. I was so proud of the way she took care of her baby brother. So Loving and protective.
Bailey Picked out her own Christmas outfit

which was supposed to be Red but she talked me into all pink.

I guess you could say it's her signature color.

The Morning of Bug's birthday she woke up bright eyed and bushy tailed and had a revelation to tell me, she was no longer a toddler interested in silly little kid things, she was now a big 5 year old. In her own words, "I am practically a grown up". (Yes, she actually said this to me)
In honor of her 5th birthday here is a Tribute to Bailey in all 5's.

5 of Bailey's favorite Foods:
Crab, Pomegranates, Waffles, Lasagna, Tuna Fish (funny thing about her liking Tuna is that it was the only thing I craved while I was pregnant with her. Coincidence?)
5 of Bailey's Favorite Shows:
Enchanted, Stardust, The Little Mermaid, All of the Shirley Temple Movies, Sound of Music
5 favorite Places Bailey has been:
Arizona with Gram Faye and Kathy to see Gracie perform her Irish step Dance. South Dakota road trip, California with Reagan and Chiristine, St.George to visit Aunt Annie and Bear Lake with the Taylor family.
5 of Bailey's favorite things:
Polly Pocket dolls, Stuffed Cat, American Girl baby doll, my ipod, Dress up clothes
5 facts about Bug:
She is an amazing little artist with a fascinating imagination, She is a true Social Butterfly, She wakes up with a smile every day, She has a beautiful singing voice and likes to make up songs, She is kind to everyone and does a great job to make sure no one is left out, even if that means including her little brother.
Bailey's best Friends:
Brooklyn, Reagan, Kaylie, Mia, Saydi, Riley, Gram Kathy, Gram Faye, Annie, Rolene and Janine
5 things Bailey would like to be when she grows up: Artist, Scientist, Ballet Dancer, Singer or a Princess. (I say shoot for the moon and go for them all!)
5 things that Bailey looks forward to about getting older:
"loosing my teeth"
"getting my ears pierced"
"Kindergarten"
"Getting Married"
"Going to bed when ever I want"

It's a Birthady Party!

2008-10-19T09:54:00.000-07:00

Bug, Luke and Kaylie could not wait for the party! Infact, they were all so hyped up and ready to go that while looking for Lukie's tennis shoes Kaylie and Bug accidentally locked his bedroom door from the inside and I had no way of getting in until Russ got home from work. So, what do you do in this kind of situation - you improvise right? Lukie sucked it up and ran all of our last minute Birthday errands in Girly Pretty Pink Princess shoes.

Don't you think they look gorgeous with the Camo pants?Per Lukie's request,

we celebrated this year at Bouncin' off the Walls.

Our cousin Dylan also has an October Birthday so we included him to make it a Super Duper Party for 3 lucky birthday kids.

Luke and Russ horsing around
Stacie and Bug

Jackson Bell
(Bug tells me all the time that she is going to marry him someday)

So much fun!

Jake using me as a toboggan

I'm holding on to Autumn
Heather, me and Stacie

Big 3 year old birthday boy Dylan

Mass carnage!

I'm embarrassed to say that the evening got a little out of hand.

The place completely lived up to its name and everyone children and adults included

"bounced off of the walls", ceiling and floor.

Can you say DAN-GER-OUS

The injury count was as follows:

Mia age 4- Bloody Nose -ran into Russell's massive Popeye forearm

Jager age 1- Badly sprained arm- going to fast down the steep slide (we thought it was broken)

Ali age 2 - Near concussion- malfunction in basketball bouncer, flipped her on the floor

Lukie age 3 - Near spinal cord injury and concussion- basketball bouncer once again.

I know there were a few others but can't remember specifically who and what exactly happened.

Other than these few "unfortunate incidents" the night was a total blast!

What? Who's this? Could it be.........

"Love goddess" Rita Hayworth, "Pin up girl" Betty Grable, and "Bombshell" Mae West.

Better believe it, we're a pretty classy crowd.

Neighbors James and Adam

Adam is leaning over the infamous Basketball Bouncer

that needs to be renamed the "Death Trap"

Aunt grandma Sue and Dylan Liz, Cindy, Darrin, Bree, Strawberry

Madison Good friends Jenn and Mia

Cousin Claire

Bug's entourage; Jordan, Mia, Reagan and Brooklyn Presents.........

presents............

and more presents!

This year I decided to try Cupcake cakes.

I Loved them because they were so easy and made very little mess.

(Once again, thank you Sunny for the wonderful suggestion)

Luke's Birthday cake was Spiderman

Bug had Tinkerbell

and Dylan wanted Fire Engines.

The evening was a little chaotic, it felt a bit like a 3 ring circus with everything going on at once. But we managed to get through it and really had a fantastic time. Thank you to everyone that came to support the kids and to make this birthday such a memorable year! You know it was a successful Party when the evening ends on this note.

Happy Birthday and Goodnight my big 3 year old

Tagged for the very first time

2008-10-14T14:08:00.000-07:00

Never been tagged before but thanks to Kristi I'll give it my best:
My 8 Favorite TV Shows:
Office
Lost
So you think you can Dance
Fame
Old SNL (preferably the ones with the hottie that plays a wicked cow bell!)
Amazing Race (one day Russ and I are going to be on that show!)
Anything on Discovery
Anything semi-educational that holds the kids attention for 1/2 hour so I can squeeze in a quick shower or cat nap
8 Favorite Restaurants:
Outback
Bombay House (Indian)
The Other Place (Greek)
Chipotle (Mexican, I never thought I'd say it but much better than Cafe Rio)
Red Mango, Mmmmm Red Mango... does Frozen Yogurt Count??
Chin Wah (guessed it? Chinese)
Anything that offers a kids meal and has a slippery slide
The Sev (What can I say, I LOVE slurpees!)
8 Things that Happened Yesterday:
Washed the kids bedding
Organized the kids new birthday toys in the playroom (thanks to everyone!)
Made Salmon and Broccoli for dinner
Finished a book that I really enjoyed and highly recommend titled "It's all Good"
Went to lunch
Colored with the kids
Picked up around the house
Went to a Pumpkin Patch with Heather.Kaylie, Dylan and my kids
8 Things I Look Forward to:
Remodeled House
Halloween with the kids
Christmas
Going to the Nutcracker with Bug
Spending the day with Gram Faye and Aunt Annie Wednesday
Girls night out
Thanksgiving at the Grand America Hotel (Love, love, love this tradition!)
Dates with Russ
8 Things I Love about Fall:
Leaves (that's a given)
The Harvest Moon
Soup for dinner
Hoodies
Crisp Air
Apple Cider
Fire in the Fireplace
Snuggling in bed for a few minutes longer because it's chilly outside the covers
8 Things on My Wish list:
Happy Healthy Children
World Peace
Remodeled House
More Energy!
Did I mention a Remodeled House?
For my brother and his son to move to up to Salt Lake closer to me and my fam
Travel more
Disney Land soon
8 People I am Tagging:Heather,Liz,Bree,Sunny,Christine,Sandi,Nat,Traci

10th Anniversay!

2008-10-05T11:11:00.000-07:00

Russ and I celebrated our 10th Anniversary last weekend in San Francisco. Can you believe it? 10 whole adventurous, exciting, never a dull moment, years! It took a little work to get out of town - making sure the kids were cared for and dog fed but thanks t0 the Walker family and Brayden Orgle it was all made possible and boy was it worth it!

We badly needed some time away together! Luke couldn't understand why he wasn't invited because he is so much fun. I had everything packed and ready to go then walked out of my room to pick up the house, when I returned I found a the cutest little stow away in my suitcase instead clothes. Russ grew up north of San Fran just on the other side of the Bay so we decided to spend our first night at the Courtyard Marriott in Novato. That evening we had a very thoughtful "Welcoming Gift" -a red rose, yummy smelling bath candle and bath soaps along with a decorative towel and a note pad - waiting in our room courtesy of Sherine and Nelson, a lovely couple who live in Olympus Cove that Russ is currently building for. We have met
some of the most genuine and caring people through Russell's work over the years, many of whom remain close family friends forever. We are truly blessed to have have so many supportive wonderful people surrounding our little family. I woke up to my hubby's old stompin' grounds and little did I know I was in for a first hand education in the History of Russell Taylor, what a treat! We spent the day visiting all of Russell's old Haunts and a few old friends and I got to learn some new things about my husband. I am making Russ "Man Post" the history attached to all these pictures for posterity and all of man kind because it is his history not mine and I want an authentic account in the books. Hopefully it gets done sooner than later so until then you will all have to pardon the picutres with out captions.

This is his childhood home on CORTE NORTE in a cul de sac perfect for playing night games and riding your bike, jumping cars on roller blades or riding your skateboard.
This is the infamous "hill" that the boys had to weed. I don't know about you but it looks like a mountain to me.

Best Buddy Johnny's house
Safeway that Russ broke his arm at.

Kevin the barber.

He knew exactly who Russell was even though he hasn't seen him for over 15 years.

Feminine Side

2008-09-22T09:08:00.000-07:00

Lukie's sis and cousin Reagan had a ball dressing him up like a White Fairy Princess. At first he wasn't too happy about it (see the scowl) but eventually he decided to run (in heels) with the idea and have a little fun.
Too much fun?

Isn't he LOVELY?

Who knew that Spiderman's alias has changed

from Peter Parker to "Tinkerbell"?
I Don't even know what to say about this one. other than

Russ should be so Proud!!!

This really is the Place!

2008-09-19T08:17:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was such a perfect day I couldn't stand to keep the kids at home and let it go to waste. I guess I'm getting a little bit antsy knowing that winter is around the corner and if this winter is going to be anything like the last, I want to spend as much time outside as humanly possible until the first snow. (regardless if there is laundry or cleaning to be done, because there's always tomorrow or the next day.... or the next..right?)Bailey had two of her friends from school

over and we all jumped into the car and headed up to the

THIS IS THE PLACE state park. I have never been there but have always heard great things about it so we decided to give it a try. For $5 a child you get a wrist band with three punches on it that allows one pony ride, one pioneer craft, and one train ride. Well worth the money, if you ask me! We enjoyed ourselves so much, it has become one of my favorite outings with the kids. Enjoying the perfect weather with our friends Riley and Saydi

Playing in the fountain
Part of the fun was being able to see the way the Pioneer children lived and the chores that they were expected to do. We were lucky enough to get in on the action and help a real life Pioneer family pick apples for a pie. The kids couldn't get enough, I was suprised that they got such a kick out of it! Who would have thought that helping out with chores would be such a hit? They begged to see if we could find any more pioneers working in their gardens so we could be of some assistance. But unfortunately some other helpers beat us to it......maybe next time.

Pioneer Crafts

I was impressed to see that Elmer's Glue and Crayola Markers were around back then

I can't imagine having to make Pinwheels with out them. Those pioneers thought of everything!

Saydi and Bug getting a little bit Creative
Showcasing our finished Pinwheels

Pioneer Batman Boy's Firehouse
One of the highlights was playing in the Children's Village. Everything was just their size and they spent over an hour just running around and exploring.
My little Engineer
Crazy Indians
Sitting "Indian" Style in a Tee Pee

Luke could not figure out this puzzle........ it's a Pioneer Parking Spot!

The "pony ride" just happened to be Big Horses which made it more exciting for the children.

Riley was quite the natural, she looked like a pro when the horses changed direction.
Giddy UP Luke!

Lukie on "Lucky", he misunderstood the lady when she was telling us the names of the horses and thought he was riding his name-twin "Lukie the Horse".

Saydi riding "Lucky"

I'm willing to bet that she's been on a horse before
Bailey riding "Banjo", who by the way was the fastest horse in town!

This is "Jack" the billy goat. He is part of the petting zoo and fast became one of our BFF's. I have never seen such a friendly petting zoo in all my life, you didn't need to walk up to any of the animals because they are all so tame they just walk on over to you. However, Jack was mildly intimidated by Lukie

(I think it was the batman shirt)

and took some coaxing to get him out into the open.
Riley re-named every animal in the petting zoo.

I believe the new name she gave Jack was "Boo the billy goat."

Jack was a character and wanted to come home with us. The clever little fellow kept following us through the gate. When we finally slipped out with out him he stood at the gate and cried for us to come back and play.

He was sooo adorable! It about broke all our hearts to leave him.

We finished off the Day with a Train Ride and Tour around the Village.

The park was such a hands on experience for the kids. All in all they went to pioneer school class, visited the cabinet maker, did chores, visited the shaving parlor, danced the Virginia Reel, visited the blacksmith, and they even got to pull a hand cart. It was fun, educational and entertaining! It was a treat to actually experience pioneer life and compare it to our lives today. There was so much to do and see that we weren't able to fit it all in and so we are going back very soon. I hear Halloween is full of new activities...

Anyone that is up for the adventure let me know!

Phenomenon

2008-09-14T12:21:00.000-07:00

Hero spotting is a new phenomenon around here

while Bailey is obsessed Princess’s,

Luke is equally obsessed with all the Super Hero’s and it has become quite the "norm" at our place to spot famous faces flying ,crawling or just hanging around.
It is not unusual for 3 or 4 different Hero’s to drop by our home in a single daySometimes they are ones we recognize, like The Batman
Superman
or Mighty Spidy

Other times the Hero is an entirely new breed, an unusual mixture of every member of "The Justice League of Hero’s" all wrapped in one with phenomenal super powers that can accomplish absolutely anything! Luke has such an active imagination and surprises me everyday what he comes up with - like the "Indivisible Snake Boy", an invisible, silent emissary who does good and leaves gifts for those in need, one of my personal favorites.
In fact Lukie reminds me a bit of a Super Hero he's got the intelligence, brute strength, advanced athletic ability, massive size (OK, so just his feet are considered above average right now) and an amazing heart of gold.
Of course this is all fun and games but I'm trying to teach my little Super Hero
that while costumes and capes are fantastic,
if he continues to do good then
"Every man can become a Superman."

"Beauty Mark"

2008-09-05T14:27:00.000-07:00

I took Bailey to see my brother-in-law Dr. Mark Rada to have a mole removed from the back of her leg. He had looked at it a few months ago and warned me that it was extremely dark and uneven around the edges, suspicious for someone her age and that it was important to get it removed before it could do her any harm. It's always better to be safe than sorry and who needs a Beauty Mark on the back of their leg anyway. We are lucky to have a Dr in the family to keep tabs on all this stuff because I wouldn't have thought much about it, since she's a child. You only really hear about older people getting these things removed. So, Thank you Dr. Mark.
I was nervous about how she would do, besides a broken Tibia last year she's never had anything done like this before. She cried and screamed a little bit, mostly out of fear of the unknown I'm sure because Mark was extremely gentle with her. Over all she surprised her mom and was very brave little girl. (Of course the M&M's from the staff and bribery of a new Doll of her choice also helped.) Mark gave her a love and some final instructions about how she needs to take it easy, no swimming and rough housing because she has stitches in the back of her leg. As we were walking out to the car she stops me in the middle of the parking lot and says, "But mom, you forgot to ask Dr. Mark if I can still dance." Yep, that's my girl!

First Day of School

2008-09-05T13:50:00.000-07:00

My Bug has been waiting for this day all summer long! She's really missed her cute friends from class last year and has been looking forward to seeing them again. She loves going to "Rocket School" which is really Children's Discovery, they just have a Rocket ship on the play ground hence - "Rocket School". Her teachers are just darling and as Bailey told me when she got home, "Mom, they have really great hair." (because at 4, that's her way of determining if they are "good" teachers. or not) I let her pick out her own school clothes so as you can imagine everything is P I N K , P I N K, P I N K , from head to toe. I have to admit I am grateful to have my girl home with me one more year and that she's not heading off for grade school just yet. (she barley missed the cut off date with an October B-day - next year she will be one of the oldest in her grade) I'm not ready for a kindergartner and I would desperately miss my good helper, not to mention her little brother would be totally lost with out his best friend and playmate. Never the less she's growing up on me and there's nothing I can do about it other than enjoy every little moment.

First Visit to the Library

2008-09-03T12:54:00.000-07:00

We visited our local Library

Trying to get the kiddies excited for back to school (Pre-school) Great Experience! However, Lukie needs to work a little on his Library Voice before we can go back.....

Bailey picked out a Fairy Princess chapter book

and Luke, "Curious George"

We love reading!

Some essentials in our Library are:

"Sylvester and the Magic Pebble" William Steg

"King Bidgood's in the Bathtub" Audrey Wood

"Little Turtle and the Song of the Sea" Sheridan Cain

"Bringing the Rain to Kapiti Plain" Verna Aardema

"Frank was a Monster Who Wanted to Dance" Keith Graves

"I Ain't Gonna Paint No More" Karen Beaumont

"Pinkalicious" Victoria & Elizabeth Kann

"Fancy Nancy" Jane O'connor

"How Do Dinosaurs Say Good Night?" Jane Yolen and Mark Teague

"Parts" Tedd Arnold

"I Love you Forever" Robert N. Munsch and Sheila McGraw

Hogle Zoo

2008-09-03T12:15:00.000-07:00

We love spending time with our little cousin Dylan! We were lucky to have him sleep over Saturday night. The next day we went to the Hogle Zoo. It was absolutely perfect weather but, note to self, don't try going over Labor Day weekend next year - way too many people!!!Riding the Choo Choo
Looking at Salamanders - Luke thought he saw Barbies Daddy
Our favorite part was the Albino Alligator - we walked through the exhibit 3 times - I'm convinced he's made of plastic because he never moved.
Gator Boy - its a new Exhibit
Monkey
Riding the new Carousel
Luke on a Sea Otter
Cutie Pie Dylan playing in the water

Goodbye to Summer

2008-09-03T09:25:00.000-07:00

Gateway/Discovery Museum Best Buddies Bailey the Bug and Reagie the Roo
Luke the Hungry Police Man

Luke had gone over to the pretend Grocery store and made himself a fake sandwich, with cheese and tomato,

that he is carting around in the back of the Police car just in case he gets hungry while he is saving people.The kids put on a cute play at the Discovery Museum

When I asked Bailey about it she said it was called, "The Frog (Bailey), the Mermaid (Reagan) and the Angry Eskimo (Luke) not sure if this one is going to make it to Broadway

Singing "Bringing home a Baby Bumble Bee"

Bubble class

Playing out in the water one last time before school starts

Busy Cole

I've never seen anything hold his attention for so long - he loved the fountains!

Warming up in the sunshine

It seems like every post ends with a Bailey dance so I guess it is appropriate that this is the last picture of the summer - goodbye to Swimming suits, AC, bare feet and warm weather. Hello to Pre-school, library visits, falling leaves and pumpkins. Looking forward to getting on a better schedule and heading into my favorite time of year - AUTUMN.

Fishing with the Bells

2008-08-27T09:45:00.001-07:00

Family night at SnowBird fishing with the Bells. We caught so many fish the novelty of reeling it in completely wore off. The kids were more interested in chasing a gofer and eating "Oreo Cakesters" by the end of the night.
I however never lost interest
There was a concert in the park that we got to listen to as we were walking around the grounds.
Lukie and Brandon dancing to the groovy tunes

Liberty Park - Last Hurrah

2008-08-27T08:58:00.000-07:00

Riding the Ferris Wheel with Cort and Madison
Eating our fave Snow cones - Lukie had "Spiderman" Flavor and Bugs new favorite is "Tiger's Blood"
Cooling off in the waterfalls
Luke flexing his "Daddy Muscles"
Listening to the "Hair Dog" Rockin' Roll band in the park - they were pretty good

Miss dancy pants rockin' out to the cool music

I know it's almost ridiculous the number of places and things we've done this summer, but that's the reason I stay home with my kids - to spend quality time with them and help them experience every thing. We are extremely blessed to have a dad that works so hard so I can be home to enjoy and have have fun with my little kids. We had so many fun outings and as always there is never enough time to get in everything that we had planned.

Weekend in Park City

2008-08-26T23:50:00.001-07:00

Kaylie and Heath Aunt Stacie and Bug

Em and Luke

Face Painting -
Bailey wanted to be a puppy dog - she originally wanted to do her whole body but I talked her into just the face.
Always the super Hero

A few weeks ago Russ and John Paul went fishing on the green River for a few days which left me alone with the kiddies so my girlfriend Heather and I decided to pack them all up and go spend a fun weekend in Park City. We were even lucky enough to have Heath's little sister Stacie, who my kids now call Aunt Stacie, join us. We rode both the Alpine coaster and slide, ate Pizza, bought treats at the Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory and had a sleepover at the Marriott Hotel. There just happened to be a Farmers market on Main street the next day so we took our time walking through and the kids got their faces painted. We all had a great time and we are looking forward to doing it again next year.

Swimming Lessons

2008-08-26T23:33:00.000-07:00

Look at that form Pointed toes
I have to say at two he's got quite a "Michael Phelps-esque" quality about him
Doing pretty good for such a little guy - So proud of him!

The kids have just finished their second year of swimming lessons and boy can they swim. Bug can jump off the diving board and swim underwater just like a mermaid with her eyes open. Lukie can do everything his big sister can, no fear what so ever! We’ve had a lot of opportunities to practice our skills this summer at the Murray pool, Park City, Hot Lava (Lava Hot Springs), Bear Lake and we get to finish it off with a bang at Lake Powell. Thanks to to the kind and patient Aly Lyons, the best swim teacher ever!!

2008 Bear Lake - Taylor Family Vacation

2008-08-26T21:53:00.000-07:00

We spent an adventure filled weekend at Bear Lake with all our cousins. When I say all our cousins I mean all 20 of them - soon to be 22 (mind you Russ has 2 brothers and 3 sisters) Russ brought the 50 for the kids to play around on and they were all so patient to take turns and watch out for one another.Some highlights of our trip were:

Holding baby Grace!

Making yummy S'mores around the fire pit/sand box

Relaxing on the porch and swinging on the hammock

Raspberry Shakes

Playing in the mud

Visiting Minnetonka Cave - Luke looked for the Bat Man but decided that he must have been saving someone, dang it, maybe next time.

Boating - thanks to Lynne and Mark for bringing the boat and allowing everyone to have a turn

Grandma Georgie's Gourmet Breakfasts (soooo good!)

Excellent Dinners

The Taylor Peloton - I know seriously, the Brothers rode "Tour De France" style around the Lake

Spending time with the people that we love

Our vertically challenged cousin Jake
No really he just got stuck in a hole -He got in so deep that the Big strong dads had to get him out Luke, Russ, Isaac, Riley and Dave relaxing in the warm shallow water
Claire and Reagan
Ry guy
Bathing Beauties Claire and Bug

Raising Money For Nyoman

2008-08-26T17:41:00.000-07:00

Last week Bailey, my mom and I went to help support Myle and experience the Night out for Nyoman. It was so much fun, not only to get dressed up and have a girls night out but to know that what you are doing is helping someone in need. Myle had live music, great food, pedicures,(which Bailey took full advantage of) and totally awesome deals in the store. Thanks to everyone who helped:) and it's not to late for those of you that would still like to make a difference in Nyoman's life - No donation is too large or small please send to -

Myle Walsh 312 E 300 N Midway Utah 84049
Something happened recently that made me really proud of Bug. One day I received an email from my good friend Myle Walsh (the wonderful lady that I went to Bali with) about a fundraiser she is holding to help buy a vehicle for an Indonesian man named Nyoman. Bailey asked me to read her the invite and it sounded something like this;"Nyoman Pada is a wonderful Father of 3, husband and good friend! He scrapes out a living by driving and working in the rice fields near Ubud, Bali. Nyoman is in dire need of a new vehicle that will help him attract customers - his present van is old and run down (I can attest to that since it broke down on my trip) Competition in Ubud is fierce- and Nyoman is finding it more and more difficult to attract business. It takes about $2700.00 to buy him a new vehicle and in doing so he will become the village bus, medical supply runner, ambulance, taxi and it will enable him to work year round and supply for his family. " I met him on my trip and he is a very kind humble man. After reading Bailey the story and explaining what a fund raiser is for, she quietly slipped upstairs and began coloring a picture of Nyoman and his new car, took an envelope out side and ran around the neighborhood (little brother and dog in tow) knocking on doors collecting her cute little heart out. When she finally came home she had a little over $70.00 to send off to Bali. I've never been so proud of her - It is a special gift to think of others and do kind things for them, she has one big heart!!!!.
My little activist collecting door to door with little brother and Dog in tow

That's Classic

2008-08-22T10:02:00.001-07:00

We spent Monday afternoon at Classic Skating with Kami, Sunny and the kids. We were all laughing our heads off because we remember back in the day when Aunt Sue would drop us off there, each with $5, to skate and hang out at the water slides all day long. Pretty funny to see ourselves there now with children, who would have thought. The place hasn't changed much in 15 years, they still have nasty black flannel on the walls, bright pink bathrooms, $1.00 hot dogs, gum under the concession stands, glow in the dark carpet, uneven seems on the slides - oh, the memories.

The Kids loved it! We actually had a great time, it was the perfect place for our kids age group. I could sit on the hill and watch Lukie in the kiddie pool while Bailey ventured out on the big water slides. It's not cool enough for all the teenagers or pre-teens so we

had the place pretty much to ourselves.

Bug, Brooklyn, Aj and JaggerYou can tell who the baby is, he is surrounded by little mothers
Luke and Aj really wanted to get out on the floorWhat a fun day with our Cousins

LAGOON - It's What Fun Is

2008-08-19T15:34:00.001-07:00

Russ has been working a lot this summer which is great, I'm thankful that he's busy, but with him being gone so much, it makes it hard sometimes to get things accomplished with two small children. So I called in the reinforcements - Madison and Cortlyn, our cute older cousins.
Last Thursday night we had a sleepover and we made a deal that if they helped me clean up and organize the kids’ playroom that I would take them the following day to Lagoon. Talk about results, we now have one super duper organized playroom. Thanks Cort and Madison we love you so much!
Waiting in line at Pioneer Village
My college Roommate Heather met us there with her family - Stacy, Kaylie and her mom (the best sport ever in my book) Janice.
My Iron-man and the Bug

Getting wet on another ride - how do those jeans feel Heath?
We were at Lagoon until 11pm and the next day Russ got up and did a Half-Iron-Man, unbelievable? No, not even surprising after all he is Russell Taylor. By the way his finishing time was 2hours 14 minutes, not too shabby.
Brave kids on Puff the roller coaster- notice Kaylie's arms straight up in the air.
Luke was in absolute heaven behind the wheel of his own little car
I guess this is what we have to look forward to in a 10 years
Luke asked me to put my hand on his tummy to see if I could feel anything funny. I'm pretty sure he was talking about having butterflies in his stomach but when I asked him about this he laughed and said, "No Mom, I didn't eat butterflies."
Its hard to see in this photo because it's so dark (I know I need to get a new camera) but Russ won the kids an armload of stuffed animals. He loves to test himself athletically, especially when there is a bet or a prize involved. We had so many animals it was hard to get them all in the car, we seriously considered leaving a child or two at Lagoon.

Taylor Family Zoo

2008-08-19T15:08:00.000-07:00

Slider the snake has been a member of our family for about 4 months. I am terrified of snakes and so is Russ but the kids love him and believe it or not he really is an easy pet. It's been a great learning experience for the kids to feed him and to watch him shed his skin. In fact the day he shed, Lukie totally freaked out because he thought Slider was throwing up. It's kind of been like a Science Lab in the garage.
We have a new edition to our family thanks to Bailey Bug Taylor. I don't know what it is about that girl but she seems to find every injured, helpless animal within a 20 mile radius and wants to bring them home and love them back to good health.(one of the many things I love so much about her) I took the kids to the park about a week ago to have a picnic and play on the play ground, we hadn't been there 15 minutes when Bug runs out of the bathrooms in tears because there was a salamander curled up in the corner that she absolutely had to save. She grabbed my McDonald's cup, threw out my ice and coke and marched back into the bathroom - the rest is history and now we have a beautiful, healthy salamander named Barbie, who eats very small crickets that I have to go buy at Pets Mart once a week:)

Potty Training

2008-08-11T10:35:00.000-07:00

I'm quickly discovering some of the differences between raising girls vs. boys (besides of course the obvious)

Potty training is such a great example -

For Lukie it was pretty easy, pull off the bottom half of clothing, jump up on the throne and do your business (which we are so proud of him for and continue to praise him about!!)

For Bug it was all a huge production that required keen fashion sense, superb cooking skills, athletic ability and patience, patience, patience.

July 24th

2008-08-07T14:01:00.001-07:00

Five, Six, seven, eight, Liz's shoes De-pre-ci-ate - my costume

So you think You can dance? Yeah, Baby!Hiding out in the back of the car

Racing for pinks Amanda aka the Big Cheese, Bree, Liz, Em and Bug.

Fire in the Hole
Illegal fireworks are fun!
Cul-de-sac of Fire
Honestly, Russ just needed a little light for Clean Up

Fire...............Ha, ha, ha FIRE!

I've seriously been contemplating this post - as it contains material inappropriate for children. Just want every one to know that no animals or humans were injured in the process, unless you want to count the personal injury by humiliating myself in old Drill Team costumes,

which I am now just overcoming..........
We had an amazing 24th thanks to our good friends and neighbors the Bells and the Mackay's. Sometimes the spontaneous get togethers are the best and I have to say that this one ranks up there among my favorites. Russ had bought some fireworks in Wy. on our way home from Bear Lake and it would have been such a waste to not share them with someone. We literally lit the neighborhood on fire.

Orem City Days

2008-08-07T11:11:00.000-07:00

The Boys in an Orem City Fire EngineLuke and Dylan on the Mum Mum
Bug and friend KaylieLukie on the big slide all by himself
Em and D on the slide

So, for those of you that don't know, I grew up in Good'ol Utah County. I lived in Orem for most of my life and as it may surprise you, I actually loved it! In fact, I still miss a lot about it like the wonderful friends and neighbors that have become more like family over the years. I miss autumn in the canyon, Stratton's Fruit Stand, eating fish and chips by the river, the view of Mt. Timpanogos right out my kitchen window, Bridal Veil Falls, Cascade Springs, climbing Rock canyon, fishing the Provo, Crandall's Apple Cider, running the Utah County trails, golfing at Tri-City and just being familiar with everything and everyone. Orem was a great little community to grow up in. After living there for over 20 years I became pretty rooted which gave me an amazing support system in friends, family, church and community. I really felt a part of things. So, now that I have moved north I still try to make it down to Orem City Festival every year to show my kids the home where I grew up, spend some time with my little brother Kyle and his son Dylan (who both still live there) and enjoy the amusements and fireworks of the "Fest". I have to say it is a little nostalgic to be there, I have memories attached to everything in Orem , plus I always thought that I would just live and raise my family there. I hope that my children will feel as much a part of things here in Holliday that I felt growing up in Orem.