The Hanamaikai Ohana

Let it SNOW...finally

2012-01-07T20:50:00.001-08:00

We finally got some snow!

And almost everyone was excited

to go out and play in the white stuff?!

Nalu didn't last too long, but wanted

to see what all the excitement was about.

I had talked to the kids about taking them

sledding at the park, but then Ash wasn't feeling good

most of the day (and quinn was gone)

so Ame and kaipo resorted to

trying to make their own little hill

to slide down.

Not sure what Kaipo was doing, but
that is often the questions.
This kid is full of imagination!

And now the kids are tired out and sleeping
in their warm beds. I am sure there will be
many more days to have fun in the snow.
(I prefer fun in the SUN)

D & D

2012-01-07T20:41:00.000-08:00

Friday was Dadd and Donuts at the kids school.

ALL the kids got to join in on the fun!

They didn't really have a choice, but nobody was

complaining.

Mmmm...

2012-01-07T20:30:00.000-08:00

Quinn's mom gave us a nice big pineapple for

Christmas, and we finally cracked it open.

(well not really CRACKED...)

Before my parents left on their mission,

in cleaning out stuff and packing,

they decided to pass this nifty instrument

on to me. Boy does this thing work awesome!!

2 of the 4 kids were lovin' this pineapple

It was a tasty one!!

scripture power

2012-01-07T20:23:00.000-08:00

As part of my primary lesson last week, about

the Book of Mormon, we made these...

MY primary lessons make for great FHE lessons,

and of course anything having to do with candy

interests the kids. One of our new years resolutions

as a family is to read the Book of Mormon together.

So making these just SWEETENED the deal!!

Here's to hopefully many days of happy reading.

Cousins

2012-01-07T17:30:00.000-08:00

During the break Ame got to have 2 of her cousins

sleep over for a couple of days.

WOW, I feel for those of you with 3 girls!!

Actually they get along really well.

It was Kaipo and Olivia, who bugged each

other the most. Olivia (middle) preferred

most of the time to hang out with Kaipo.

She is an only child, and I think she

longs for a brother!?

These girls played dress up,

made videos, played LOTS of

Just Dance 3. Ame loves

this opportunity, because it gives her a taste
of what it would be like to have sisters.

They are pretty silly together!!

A few more...

2011-12-25T21:47:00.001-08:00

I found a few more pictures on my phone that I wanted to share.

Nalu's favorite things this christmas has been these books that MY parents and also Quinn's dad gave to us last christmas. He carries these around all the time, asking anyone to READ GRANDPA. Unfortunately, they haven't held up soo well and therefore sometimes they work and sometimes they don't.

Another memorable event was our Hanamaikai Christmas gathering. We ate and ate, then had a visit from HAWAIIAN Santa. Some of the kids were fooled and some...not soo much!

The cousins also did their gift exchange and everyone LOVED their gifts. They all seem to know each other pretty well and what like! My kids were definitely HAPPY!! We love our time together with family. We just don't seem to get it as often as we'd like!

Christmas Eve-Day

2011-12-25T20:31:00.000-08:00

Because we had school through Wed.

this mom was just too busy to squeeze

this in any time before. So Christmas Eve day we made

gingerbread houses and christmas cookies.

It was a big messy afternoon, but it wouldn't be

Christmas without these traditions!

Our Christmas Eve program included:

lots of music (both spiritual and not-so-much)

The New Video-A Gift to the World, our

reinactment of the Nativity (wasn't the

greatest this year, but its all about tradition, right)

reading of "Teach the Children", our favorite story

and CD "God Bless your Way", our Gifts to

Jesus-White Stocking. After we gave our gifts

to Jesus, the kids got to open one gift...new jammies.

Another of our favorites on Christmas is watching

Mr. Krueger's christmas.

Then we had to get ready for Santa's arrival

and sprinkle reindeer food

and leave a note, cookies and egg nog for Santa

(the other note is his note in return).

The kids all went to sleep very easily,

so mom could make some last minute

preparations.

The kids were happy with what they got,

especially there $$ from Grandma and Grandpa Asplund.

It was easier for me to just give them the

money this year, and let them choose what they

want rather than me take more time and TRY and

guess something for each of them.

(I suggested tonight they spend some

AND then save some)

Thankfully Nalu slept through most of the present opening

and we got him up when we were finishing up.

That way he wouldn't be ripping into everyone else's

and we could just focus in him at that point!

I told him to smile and so he folded his arms

and said CHEESE! A little mixed up but oh well?!

Give me all YOUR candy and I am one happy boy!

The kids all dressed up for church.

Ame and Quinn are in the choir and

we had a wonderful, spirit-filled program.

I missed the beginning because, right as

sacrament started Nalu fell and bit his lip real

bad! I hurried to the restroom to try and stop

the bleeding. You can still see the teeth marks.

It bled a ton!! He cried soo much he tired himself out

and slept through the program. Poor little guy!

But at lesat I didn't have to wrestle him.

I didn't get any pictures, but I made my first attempt

at making a turkey dinner and felt pretty good about

the results. Definitely room for improvement,

but nothing burned and everyone seemed satisified.

Quinn' s mom and step-dad came to our ward

and stayed the afternoon with us. Frankie

is always soo helpful, cleaning my house and

just lending an extra hand. We ate and just

hung out, watched the kids play/fight over their new toys.

It was a fairly relaxing day and I think,

at least for part of the day, everyones hearts and focus were

in the RIGHT PLACE!

I am thankful this Christmas Season for the peace

and spirit I have felt. I am soo thankful for my

Savior. For his sacrifice, his love and perfect example.

I am thankful to have a knowledge of HIM and know

of his LOVE for me. It has carried me through some

difficult times in life.

I am also thankful for my family and friends,

both near and far. For their love, prayers, kindness,

caring and generosity towards me and my family.

I am satisfied and tired, so I will end by saying...

Merry Christmas to all and to all a GOOD Night!!

Polar Express OVERLOAD

2011-12-25T19:53:00.000-08:00

Tuesday was Polar Express Day in my class, so

lucky Miss Ame got to come to school with me.

She just "ate up" all the attention she got from

my students. She had a blast and it was pretty

fun for me to have MY GIRL there for a day!

Leading up to this day we had done various

learning activities tied to this story.

Then this afternoon the students got

to watch the movie and also make a candle

as a gift to give to whomever they chose.

Here's me and Ame with my cute, crazy class!

I wish I would have taken a picture of the FINISHED

product the next day. We gift wrapped the candles in

these cute bags that we decorated to look like

a Santa suit (red bag, black strip, with a buckle

and some added cotton).

Then after school we had a FUN surprise for our kids.

We surprised them with their own POLAR EXPRESS

ride, up in Heber. They were soo excited when we

told them where we were headed right after school.

It was SOO cold. Luckily the train was heated!

LADY FROST, as she was called,

was the MC for the ride.

She organized various games and

activities while we were on the train.

Waiting...

waiting...

and we are off to the North Pole.

Nalu was soo funny. He was standing up with the

program (as if he were reading it) and just singing away.

He can actually sing along to a few songs.

His favorite is Frosty the Snowman.

Thw excitment escalated when we arrived

at the North Pole and Santa got on board.

Gave each of the kids a bell, asked them what they wanted

and shook their hand.

It was a MAGICAL night for the kids. Kaipo and

Ash were especially enthralled with the whole night!

Then Wed. night (we had already planned this event

b4 the actual train ride so there was no getting out of this one)

the kids each had a friend over for a

POLAR EXPRESS PARTY.

That was a lot of craziness. I don't know how much they

actually watched the movie, but they

were definitely SUGAR filled!!

hot cocoa, homemade treats (lots of which came

as gifts from my students), popcorn, etc...

Ame and her friend punched everyone tickets

These two buddies even wore their matching jammies.

So I think after these two days, we were on

Polar Express OVERLOAD, but

definitely made lots of FUN memories!!

A little of this...a little of that...

2011-12-16T18:56:00.000-08:00

Nowadays when I am busy as can be,

blogposts come with a large variety of happenings.

Last Sunday we met my sis Karli in Brigham City to swap

some things, so I told the kids we could go see

the temple being built. Well I didn't know it would havea

cement wall baracade all around it, so our view was from

a greater distance than we had hoped.

But we are already planning on going to the

open house. The kids can't wait to go INSIDE

a temple!

We have graciously received the

12 days of Christmas

from Jason and LeAnne and their family.

It has brightened our holiday season

and made for much more excitement

as we count down to Christmas.

You guys are amazing and soo very thoughtful!

I couldn't be more thankful and humbled by your kindness.

We love and miss you guys tremendously!!

the mugs were the FIRST day with hot cocoa.

We needed a family set.

A PERFECT gift for these COLD nights!

Ash had his preschool Christmas program

this week, and was as cute as can be!

This handsome boy is growing up

way too fast.

They were even surprised with a visit from

SANTA CLAUS.

This was his FAVORITE song.

I love his sweet personality!

We are feeling very grateful and

full of Christmas Spirit!!

some sweetness...

2011-12-04T20:59:00.000-08:00

We just can't get enough of this SWEET boy!

Homemade crepes make anyone's morning...

SWEET

And our first time making our very own

tangerine juice.

Don't let the faces fool you...

it too was soo tastey!

Basketball and Treats

2011-11-13T17:36:00.000-08:00

Kaipo started basketball this week.

And Quinn volunteered to coach his 6 year old boys team.

I really didn't know what to expect with Kaipo and b-ball.

I was quite surprised at his ability, focus and drive.

He cheered on his team while waiting on the bench for his turn

and then when he was in playing he knew much more about

HOW to play than I thought he would. He is actually quite

good at dribbling the ball down he court, he's not afraid

to shoot and was agressive (in the right way) at getting the ball.

I am excited for the future of this kid.

He is actually REALLY excited to play...

we might just have ANOTHER baller in our family!?!

Nalu is...well there's no nice way of saying it...

a "royal pain" at Ame's and now Kaipo's games.

All he wants to do is run on the court, get the basketballs

and definitely NOT be contained by by any means.

It is hard to watch the game AND keep him out of the way!

Not really related to basketball, but we made this yummy

SIMPLE treat for FHE tonight.

I actually found pumpkin flavored marshmallows,

so we made pumpkin/chocolate chip rice krispy treats.

They were a HIT!!

And now a BUSY week begins...

Parent-Teacher conferences?!!

(I might need this whole pan of treats myself,

just to make it through)

they got it right...

2011-11-04T21:26:00.000-07:00

Ame was happy this year that her name was

pronounced correctly, as they called her up to

receive her reflections award.

She shared her skill with poi balls, as her diversity

talent for the reflections contest.

She has such an amazing talent and a year ago

SHE would never had thought she would be

as good as she is with those poi balls.

We are soo proud of you girl!

Your talents never seize to amaze all of us!!

What a girl!!!

Can't believe it!!

2011-11-04T20:46:00.000-07:00

How did my baby boy grow up soo fast?

Where have those two precious years gone??

I was trying to savor the baby years,

but somehow he got older anyway!?

I can't believe it, but our precious

Nalu

turned 2 yesterday.

There was nothing super grand,

but what does one who doesn't really

GET IT, need anyway.

He got donuts and orange julius for

breakfast before mom left for work.

Then when the kids and mom

got home from school we opened presents.

He is very much into anything cars

right now, something his brothers

were never really into.

Even though he didn't get the

whole birthday thing, he did

LOVE opening presents...

don't know who liked his new toys

better, Nalu or his siblings??

gotta carry as many cars as he can,

just so NO ONE ELSE gets ahold of them!

great pick mom!!

After presents and play time we went out to eat

and then went to Ame's reflections awards

(next post) and then it was cake & ice cream.

Check out his reaction to the candles,

and the lingering smoke after they're blown out...

We love you soo much Nalu. You love to talk, your vocabulary is growing rapidly and are learning new words every single day. You copy everything we say (so we have to be careful). You have such a cute personality and quite a sense of humor too. You are definitely developing independence and want to everything and anything. But you are becoming more stranger weary as well. For example at your 2 year check up today, you didn't want anything to do with your friendly Dr. who you have seen since you were born. He couldn't even look inside your ears without you having a meltdown?! One lucky thing your Dr. reminded us of and that he has been amazed by, is he has never seen you for anything other than a well-checkup. We have definitely been blessed in that regard. You are one healthy, happy boy! You have overcome your fear of nursery and will FINALLY stay on your own there. Baby steps I guess, right? You LOVE to play with your brothers, and are becoming especially close to Ash, since you two get to spends lots of time playing together during the day. You ask for Ame all the time, and definitely LOVE your big sister! You are adventurous just like your older brother Kaipo. We recently had to take the ladder off your brothers bunkbeds because you are such a monkey and climbed that ladder as fast as can be. But getting down wasn't quite as easy (or safe). You love to be outside, exploring, playing ball, swimming and just being a curious BOY!! You are quite a picky eater, but definitely have your small variety of foods you enjoy. A nutri grain bar every morning for breakfast, Cheese, pepperoni, gogurt, many kinds of fruits, SNACKS-crackers or goldfish, raisins, and the one meal we can always depend on of course is PIZZZZAAA! You love to drink water and are starting to take a liking to milk again, but only if it is sweetened with some nesquik. You are a wonderful sleeper, 11-12 hours/night and thankfully still take a nap. Nalu we love you to pieces. You light up each of our lives with your kisses, love you's and absolute sweetness. Your smile just makes momma's day when she walks in the door, after a long day away. YOU definitely complete our family Nalu boy!! But just one request...STOP growing up soo fast...please!!!

found 'em

2011-10-30T20:41:00.001-07:00

These characters couldn't be more personality

fitting for this TRIO...

Simon, Alvin and Theodore.

Can you see how their costumes, except

for Ash, would look a little strange solo?!

And here's the beauty in a little more light.

MORE holiday fun

2011-10-30T18:31:00.000-07:00

We had our ward Trunk or Treat last week and I got some

great pictures of the kids in their costumes, but

since then we have lost the plug for THAT camera.

Unless you see all 3 boys together, their costumes

aren't as cute. Hopefully we can get some more

of them together tomorrow night.

Anyways, Ash had a halloween party and

trunk or treat on Friday at preschool.

Can you guess who HE is?

I kinda get sad when I don't get to be apart of these

things with him. But I just can't think

about it too much, and just have to be gratefu that at least

he has ONE parent that gets to be involved?!

Friday evening I took the kids to a Halloween party

my school's PTA hosted. There were simple games,

treats, music and dancing.

Nalu (theodore) is not pictured in any.

Either he was strapped in the stroller

(as long as I could contain him that way, without

him screaming bloody murder),

or running around (often not to be found).
HE is definitely the hardest to take places these days!!

Ame being a GOOD BIG sister

to Simon and Alvin

Ame was feeling pretty confident

when several 5th grade girls, from

my school whom she didn't know,

kept coming up to her asking her

questions, like:

"Is that your real hair,"

(you can't really see it cuz the pictures

are dark, but she had her old dance hair piece

in her hair which was done up all cute on the

top of her head)

"Where do you go to school," or

"Are you Mrs. Hanamaikai's daughter?"

I just think they were jealous of her

beautiful costume...
MISS HAWAII

the SASH was definitely the most time

consuming part to put together.

The rest we found at savers or the $ store.

HER costume idea.

And if the OLDER girls talking

to her wasn't confidence builder enough,

she even won an award...
Other than nalu being a ROYAL pain,

we had a fun time and the kids LOVE

being able to wear their costumes

as many times as possible.

We carved A pumpkin for our FHE activity.

I usually let the kids paint their pumpkin,

but for some reason painting seemed like too big

of a mess and too much time, so we carved ONE

instead. The kids each had a part of the pumpkin

to draw and cut.

Mom got the fun job of taking the YUCK out of the inside

It's kinda sad looking, but I figure if we are going to

carve one that will just go bad in a few days, at least use

the UGLY one. The others can sit on the porch

for Thanskgiving decor.

Plus this little guy gave lots of seeds

for the kids to enjoy anyway.

I must admit I am not a huge Halloween fan,

but for the kids sake I am TRYING to keep

traditions alive and provide fun some memories.

Thankfully only one more day and then we

can move on to a MUCH BETTER holiday!

HAPPY HALLOWEEN to all!!!

Some FALL afternoon FUN

2011-10-29T21:49:00.000-07:00

Today was such a beautiful afternoon, I decided

(even though I have lots to do on my DAY OFF)

we need to enjoy being outside. Especially because soon

it is going to be soo COLD we won't want to be outside much.

So the older 3 kids and I headed down the street

to a Horse Show fundraiser.

Ash had no interest in riding the pony

(and we got there too late for the petting zoo-

I guess the animals got tired of being pet,

is what they told us), so he just hung out

with mom while the other 2 had their turn.

Kaipo was pretty excited

Ame was a bit disappointed she

couldn't RIDE FREE, but was still

grateful and happy to be on a horse!

And here they are just posing SILLY...

This and Rainbow Floats, made our day

MUCH more ENJOYABLE!!

B-Ball Girl

2011-10-15T22:08:00.000-07:00

Ame is playing her first year of Jr. Jazz Basketball.

This is the second week (I forgot my camera last week).

The first game was a bit overwhelming, being her first

REAL experience playing an actual game, but she

still did great. This week was quite an improvement!

The team is having their last minute pre-game huddle.

I know this picture is blurry, but I had to include it.

This was the first shot of the game...

and AME made it!!

She made 2 more baskets during the game.

The last one, just seconds before the end

of game buzzer. They didn't win, but played

AWESOME!

Of course, we are all there CHEERING her

on (but also running wild, screaming

because we don't want to sit still but instead

run on the court, and just

driving mom and dad crazy)

Ash has little lamb (their class pet)

visiting our family this weekend, so he

HAD to come to the game!

Ame is quite the hussler. She takes

the ball down the court well, gets right

under basket with no fear to shoot.

She is learning how to play offense
and make herself open to make a shot
or help out a teammate.

We couldn't be more proud of her.

This is her first TEAM sport, and

we are finding out that she is quite the athlete.

I think we are going to have some

ball players in this house????

(Kaipo starts next month)

Ashy Boy

2011-10-15T21:58:00.000-07:00

Ash's preschool went on a fieldtrip this week
to Black Island Farms. They have all sorts of
activities, including a hay ride and each of the
kids got to choose a pumpkin. Dad and Nalu
joined Ash, for some fun. Notice Nalu...
barefoot. I think dad forgets he can walk and
that he actually needs shoes on his feet when
he leaves the house. He is actually pulling a sticker
out of his own foot, in the picture below.
Poor Kid! Hopefully as winter sets in Mr. Mom
will remember those shoes for Nalu :)
Ash is really growing and learning a lot this
year. I love to hear him say the Pledge of Allegience,
the Nursey Rhyme of the week, new songs
and all the fun things he shares with us after
school. He is quite the smarty pants!

oh what a boy!

2011-10-15T21:17:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago, in his Spanish Class,

Kaipo was the

Student of the Week.
He shared his poster, all in Spanish

and dad said he did an OUTSTANDING job!!

He is learning soo much and is even

reading on a 3rd grade level.

His intelligence amazes us all the time.

If we can just help him get that behavior

under control, then I know we will see even more

amazing things happening with this incredible boy!

Cousins and Moods

2011-10-02T20:18:00.000-07:00

On Saturday, we decided to head up to Logan

to hang out with the Grover's.

The kids couldn't wait to get out and play

with Chase (all except Ash of course, who

is MAJORLY afraid of dogs, due to an incident

with our neighbors dog awhile back).

Then karli and I loaded up the kids and we

headed to the park. Unfortunately I have no

picture of all the kids together, only mine,

but I know Karli snapped a lot more pictures

than I did. And plus she just gets better pics anyway!

It was a great park, with trees to climb, regular swings

and a tire swing and all the other usual slides and tunnels,

etc. The kids ran around and had a blast!!

Little Nalu is at such a hard stage for

many reasons. At the park especially.

He THINKS he can do everything

and independently of course.

Makes me a bit crazy!

Needless to say there isn't a whole

lot of chatting time for kar and I

with 7 kids to chase around.

After everyone was tired and hungry,

we headed to this great all-you-can-eat

pasta, pizza and salad place.

The kids ate and ate, all they

wanted. Kar and I got to talk for a

few minutes at least amidst the kids

running wild, sticking their fingers

in the dessert pizza (as I was so kindly

informed by a lady who saw Kaipo

do it). But I enjoyed the time I got

to spend with my wonderful sister

and her beautiful girls.

The kids and I all thoroughly

enjoyed our "get-away".

We just wish we could do it

MORE often!?!

Love ya Kar. Thanks

for being such a tremendous

rock and support to me!

**************************************
Ame just got a package in the mail this

weekend. A belated gift from her

Grandpa Kimo and Sheri.

Ever since she read her first Judy Moody

book, she has been dying to have

a MOOD ring (this was news to me).

She was lucky enough to get one, with

a really cute flower jewelry holder.

They knew how to pick out the

PERFECT gift for this girl!

Kaipo has been following Ame around

all day trying to annoy her, scare her,

and whatever else he can think of

to CHANGE her mood ring color.

Typical brother, huh??

In addition to these fun things, we had a

somewhat peaceful day (as much as you can

with four kids), watching conference

and feeling the spirit from the amazing

talks and inspiration shared.

I feel renewed and a bit refreshed

(if only this headache would go away)

and ready to start a NEW week,

tackling all the challenges in my life!

Temple Trip

2011-10-02T20:12:00.001-07:00

Last Sunday, the kids and I took a drive

to walk around the Bountiful Temple.

I got to thinking the only time they have

really been to a temple is Temple Square

and that is at Christmas time, when we

are mostly focused on the lights and

the Christmasness of it all.

So I want to start taking them to

various temples periodically, so they

can feel the spirit there.

Unfortunately, we made our trip on a

Sunday so they couldn't get too close,

but it was still worth it and we all felt the

spirit just being close to this Sacred Place.

They were in awe...

Ame took LOTS of pictures
It was a beautiful fall day and we just enjoyed our
walk and Ame did some sketching as well.

She is quite the little artist.

I look forward to many more outtings

like this one!

2011-09-18T15:23:00.000-07:00

*Ame’lia’s 9 year survey*
If you could have one super-power, what would it be? To be invisible! Then I could scare my brothers.
What was the last chore you did? Take out the trash.
What is your favorite song? Who says & Love you like a love song.
What's your favorite food? BBQ Steak
What's the nicest thing you've done for someone in your family lately? Said Thank you for all of my birthday presents.
What makes you mad? When Nalu comes in my room & destroys EVERYTHING!!!!!!
Where would you like to go on vacation next year? To Hawaii!!!!
Who's the smartest person in your family? Why Me! I’m the oldest. Thats why!
How are you like your dad? We both like to sing
How are you like your mom? We’re both very pretty
What's one thing that your dad has that you'd like to develop? Basketball skills
What's one thing that Dad always said to you? Ame, stop bothering the boys
What's one thing that you and Dad did together that you'll always remember? We went to Cherry Hill & took me & my brothers to see Judy Moody & The NOT Bummer Summer
If you had a million dollars, what's the first thing you'd buy? Walmart & EVERYTHING in it
How do you know that I (mom) love you? Because you & everyone else always make my birthday soooooooooooooo special
What's your favorite cereal? Frosted Flakes
What's your favorite movie? Judy Moody & the NOT Bummer Summer
What's your favorite vegetable? Corn
What personal item that you would never give away? My Journal
What's your favorite game? Minute to Win it Board Game
What's your favorite book? Judy Moody Series
What food would you eat every day if you could? Meat
If you could choose a different name, what would it be? The same name. I really like it!
What's the scariest thing you've ever done? Jumped off the high dive
If you could eat at any restaurant for the rest of your life, where would it be? Tucanos
What's your favorite candy bar? Symphony Bar
What's the last thing that you did that you were proud of? Help my friend when she was kind of scared to ride horses
What's the best age to be? 8
What's your favorite holiday? Christmas & Halloween
What's the best present you ever got? Disney Sing It

How did this happen??? My oldest is 9?!

I couldn't be more proud of this girl and ALL of her

natural talent, beauty and accomplishments.

She is one of a kind, very sensitive and always thinking of others!

She is soo incredibly smart and tries hard at everything she does.

She is very determined and when she sets her mind to

something, there is no stopping her!

You are amazing and I feel like the luckiest mom in the world

to have YOU as my only daughter and my firstborn.

What an example you are to your brothers

and a tremendous leader to your friends and family.

I love you more than I could ever express

Ame'lia Kiana Kealoha

**************************************

So she was VERY specific about her birthday requests...

Starting with Einstein Bagels and hot chocolate for breakfast.

She opened presents that morning before mom had

to race off to school and the kids shortly after.

She was soo excited to get this present...

HORSES are her passion these days!

She took her camera to school

She has some really fun, cute friends

And she took a few of them for her BIG request

HORSEBACK RIDING

Ame is such a natural on a horse.

Ever since we went to Canada and she rode

a horse for the first time, she has been

in LOVE with horses.

She was definitely HAPPY this wish came true!!

Then her cousins, Olivia and Ella came up

for a sleepover. The kids had pizza, watched movies,

stayed up WAY too late, and had homemade

ice cream cake. It was YUM!!

Another of her birthday gifts was SING IT-Disney

for the Wii. She didn't ask for that

specifically, but rather a Karaoke Machine.

This seemed to fill the request, but even better!

And if ALL that wasn't enough for this

birthday girl, the next day mom took her and her cousins

to get FEATHERS in their hair.

When we took the girls back we used Ame's birthday

gift card to Tucano's (a favorite place for this meat eater).

She was in Heaven! All our kids just love that place.
We have some serious CARNIVORES...

It was a EXTRA busy week for this

working mom, to shop for gifts

AND plan all this fun stuff .

But it was all worth it, to see her super

excited and having a BLAST!!

HaPpY bIrThDaY my sweet 9 year old girl.

Hanamaikai Family Pics

2011-09-09T22:15:00.001-07:00

The STAR or HANDFUL of the show...

About a month ago, Quinn's sister arranged

family pictures with ALL of the

Hanamaikai Family.

We also did our own family as well.

I have yet to see the CD of all the pics,

but here is what we took pics of...

Nalu didn't want anyone near him or touching him,

makes for difficult posing!

the IN BETWEEN...

dad giving Kaipo mean looks, mom TRYING to tame

Nalu, which he wanted nothing to do with.

boys being patient as can be, amongst the BIG crowd.

attempting to get a group pic of all the cousins

notice the MAIN uncooperative one AGAIN...

Nalu pusing everyone out of the way!

Ikaika ATTEMPTING to console Nalu.

Now Kekoa tries...

good as you're gonna get, Ash licking his lips and all!

No wonder the last time we attempted this

was when WE only had 2 kids.

Hopefully sometime b4 Christmas

I will get ahold of that CD of all the pics?!

Ash FINALLY started

2011-09-09T22:04:00.001-07:00

It is soo hard for the preschooler,

when you have older siblings who start school

two weeks before you get to.

But Ash FINALLY started school

this week.

The name of his school is

Mary's Little Lambs.

They have a class pet that they

get to take turns bringing home.

They have a journal to record what

they do while Little Lamb is visiting,

and add any pictures.

They played the Wii together,

ate dinner and drank lots of chocolate

milk. He LOVED sleeping in Ash's bed

and woke up to a great breakfast before

heading back to school!

Ash was pretty proud to be the FIRST to

get to take the pet home.

Ash goes MWF from 12-2:30, so it gives STAY at HOME dad
a good chunk of time in the
afternoon, while Nalu is napping
to get work done (or whatever he does).
Ash has grown up so much. And he is
smart as a whip. I am excited to see him
learn and grow this year, as he gets ready
for Kindergarten!!

wish granted

2011-09-09T21:59:00.001-07:00

Last Saturday when we were skype talking

with my parents, Kaipo told my parents

how it was not fair that his friend got GOLD dollars

from the tooth fairy.

Well Lucky for Kaipo, he lost his other

front tooth that very night,

and the tooth fairy granted HIS wish...

GOLD COINS!

Kaipo lost his 2 bottom teeth first.

Then for quite a while Kaipo only had

one of his front top teeth missing.

Looked pretty funny!

Now he looks and sounds cute, lisp and all,

with his two front top teeth now gone!

So glad your wish came true!

MY home away from home

2011-09-09T21:53:00.000-07:00

In case you were wondering what my

SECOND home looks like...

Thanks to Jamie,you get a warm welcome

when you enter my room. She did

the vinyl letter for me.

It's just soo inviting, don't you think?!

And here you can see my room...

from EVERY angle.

It's nothing spectacular, but it is functional

and somewhat inviting. At this point all I have

time for is to TRY to keep up wth all my grading, testing,

planning, prep work, individual student needs, and so many

other day-to-day needs. Oh yeah, and

be a MOM! WHen anyone asks me how's school going,

my reply is ONE day at a time!!

the NEW cool

2011-08-23T22:24:00.000-07:00

Ame and Kaipo have just found interest in what I guess is the NEW cool thing

(or maybe old I don't know). That would be pegging. Kind of like pumping

someone, but instead they stand on the peg on the back of the bike.

Pretty cute I'd say!

First Day

2011-08-23T22:13:00.000-07:00

I must say it was a pretty hard day for me, in that I didn't get to join my kids on their first day of school. I had to hold back a few tears, but dad did good in getting lots of pics so I could see what I missed. They were both super excited, and of course a bit anxious!

Nalu and Ash were trooper and enjoyed tagging along.

Dad doesn't believe in safety belts?!

Kaipo meeting his homeroom, Spanish Teacher, Mr. Naylor.

Ame was sooo very sad not be in the same class as

her BFF Layla. But we had a talk about the new

friends she will get to make and that her and Layla

can still hang out OUTSIDE of the classroom.

Ame checking out some new third grade stuff.

OK dad, I think that is enough pictures?!?

Kaipo was all smiles and when I talked to him after

his first day, he said he LOVES, LOVES, LOVES first grade!

getting ready to start spanish class...

and now the fun begins!

(I took some pictures of my class and classroom that

I have on my computer at school. I will post them soon.)

Back to School Dinner

2011-08-23T22:07:00.000-07:00

As tradition, we had our BACK to SCHOOl dinner, with request from the kids for Maui chicken, rice, corn on the cob, and hawaiian bread. Topped off with HOMEMADE ice cream and brownies.

It was a lot of work for a Sunday, but well worth it and enjoyed by all! Happy School days!!

end of summer fun

2011-08-23T22:00:00.000-07:00

Last Friday, I took Ame, Kaipo and Ash to the

Drive-In Movies. Quinn stayed home with Nalu, because

well lets face it, is Nalu really going to watch to

movies in the back of the car...of course not!!

We saw Spy Kids in 4D AND Smurfs.

We packed LOTS of treats and snacks.

The kids did really great and made it through

BOTH movies. Mom on the other hand, slept

through half of the 2nd movie.

We had a grand time and made one last

summer fun memory!

Time Flies.......

2011-08-23T21:50:00.000-07:00

NO, I didn't just post all of these 5 in the last hour after I finished school (as the time may show). I did a lot of much need blog catch up last night until about 11:30 instead of getting the sleep that I should have been getting. I am just now posting them because for some reason my computer last night wouldn't do it?!?

WOW, where has this month gone? Oh yeah, into my classroom. I can't say this past month has been easy by any means, for any of us. After the third official day of school I feel exhausted and more overwhelmed than before, and I honestly find myself wondering how I am possibly going to do this for a whole school and maybe, just maybe, many more years to come?! I know things get easier in time, but right now I want to go to sleep and never wake up, because really, life just feels too hard!! I know I have just had several extra hard, stressful days and tomorrow will very well be easier, and I know soo many people have faith and confidence in ME. Maybe that is making me feel overwhelmed too, because my expectations are set too high. I just have to continuously remind myself that I can do this and I am strong, but can't expect perfection!

DON'T compare myself to others. That is just not fair to myself. I know there are many, many other working moms, and I have a perfect example of someone who did just what I am doing for 25 years (my own amazing mom)!!

OK I got it out. I am not one who usually poors out my negative feelings

here in our family blog, but right now, it is what it is!!

Lagoon

2011-08-03T20:55:00.000-07:00

At the beginning of summer I promised the kids

we would go to Lagoon sometime this summer.

Well you can't break a promise like that,

especially for my deprived kids who have

never been. So today we finally made a day of it!

I took the two older kids, while Quinn entertained

Ash and Nalu in easier ways. It was a LONG day

but here are a few highlights from our adventure.

I was surprised at how much convincing

it took to get these two to get a coaster ride.

Kaipo especially! As crazy and fearless

(or so I thought) as he is, again and again

I had to convince him he was brave enough

and that it WOULD BE FUN!

We never got on any rides that went

upside down, but a few of their favorites were:

Bombora, the Bat and THE Roller Coaster.

We also spent A LOT of time at Laguna Beach.

I probably could have saved LOTS of $$ and just

gone to cherry hill or somewhere else to swim and

ride slides. But I don't think that compromise could

have been made.

When these two aren't arguing and irritating

each other to death, I can tell they actually are

becoming GREAT friends!
I LOVE IT!!

I got many thumbs up, hugs and thank you's for

such a fun day. I definitely think it was a

GREAT memory made! These two will

be talking about this day for quite some time.

Nothing better than making your kids beam

and just soo very happy!

first attempt

2011-08-03T20:45:00.000-07:00

I made my first attempt at a diaper cake,

for a friend having a baby shower tomorrow night.

Another friend and I decided to go in on a gift together.

She fully admits she isn't a crafty person at all,

and not that I am really either, but occasionally

I am up for a little challenge.

Ame helped me and 100 diapers later (and a few

hidden accessories)....

I am pretty happy with the results?!

festivities...

2011-07-26T13:57:00.000-07:00

I was not very good to focus my kids this year

(or myself for that matter)

on the reason for our Pioneer Holiday

(thank goodness we had an

awesome sharingtime in Primary).

Our day was actually quite boring,

I spent several hours at my school

trying to get a handle on all I have to do

to get ready. Knowing August is

JUST AROUND the corner, my stress

level is beginning to go up!

(THAT is not the focus of this post though)

But we did get some of our own fireworks

and our AWESOME neighbors

invited us to join them, so we put on

quite the show!!

Here come the kids.... Quinn getting things ready.

mom and Ash just chillin'
(Nalu missed all the fun. He was actually kind
scared on the fourth of all the loud fireworks,
so I put him to bed at his regular time and

HE didn't even know what he missed)

Kaipo checkin' out the loot.

Ash being his cute self.

Imagine that...Kaipo chasing someone.

Some of the neighbor kids having fun with the glow sticks.

with boys EVERYTHING becomes a sword, right?!

everyone enjoying the show.

Ame and her papa.

Hopefully next year I will focus myself

and kids attention on the reason for this

special holiday.

So many sacrifices were made by those

of TRUE faith. Such an example and strength

to me, and a motivation to not lose hope

or faith in difficult times.

(I love this verse from Come, Come Ye Saints)
Why should we mourn or think our lot is hard?

'Tis not so; all is right.

Why should we think to earn a great reward

If we now shun the fight?

Gird up your loins; fresh courage take.

Our God will never us forsake;

And soon we'll have this tale to tell-

All is well! All is well!

Another Success

2011-07-26T13:23:00.000-07:00

Saturday was Ame's annual luau.

It was a great success.

I missed a lot of it, because I was

a Hula Mom, which meant I was backstage aqwwhelping all

the little Keiki get into their costumes.

All 22 of them! I had one other mom helping.

Let me just say CRAZY!!!!
Trying to get all these girls, ranging in age from 3-8,
undressed from one costume, finding their other

costume and tied, rolled, with all their accessories

was no easy task?! On stage some looked

far from perfect, but they all made it out there on time!

(I don't actually have pictures of any of the little girls,

as Quinn was the photographer, and the focus was somewhere else...

*iAme has done soo well this past year and has been

a great example & leader in her class.

She is very anxious to now be moving up to the

PRETEEN class.

She will be learning more challenging routines

and now the youngest,but it will be great for her!

I am excited to see her become even better!!

***************************************

Videos below:

#1 Kaipo as a volunteer doing the HAKA.

#2 Ame's doing tahitian. There was another video

of another dance that was better,

but it was too large of a file to download.

(I don't know how to shrink the file to make it fit,

so if anyone has advice please let me know)

This dance was a transition one, that went from

Keiki I, Keiki II and then Ame's group Keiki III.

To my defense, the older girls dressed themselves

and we had some adjustments that were made

after they danced that one.
i
k

Craziness=Memories w/Cousins

2011-07-24T19:48:00.002-07:00

We were soo lucky to have my sis-in-law Debbie

bring her four boys out to Utah for a visit this past week.

We got to spend a few days with them.

I was NOT very good about gettings pics of all

of our fun together (hopefully Karli and Debbie were).

We went to the Hill Airforce Museum together. My sis Kar

and her girls joined us as well. After a few hours there

we headed to the best place for lunch with 11 kids...

McDonalds of course. The kids ate and played,

and us MOMS got to chat a bit.

Then the Asplund boys came to our house for a sleepover.

Quinn was out of town for a work conference, so I

definitely had my hands full!!

The kids got along surprisingly well, with only a

few minor setbacks (but easily solved).

They enjoyed their time together playing at the park,

watching movies, dress-ups, basketball, games,

eating and coming up with anything and everything

to keep themselves entertained.

I loved getting to know Evan, Kyle and Luke a little more and

seeing their cute personalities shine.

I defninitely got some good laughs!

We got to meet up with Karli and Debbie

again the next day with ALL the kids of course

and go swimming @ North Shore aquatic center.

There wasn't as much MOM talk time here.

Trying to keep our eyes on all these kids

kept us pretty occupied.

ALl in all we had a grand time with our cousins.

We soo appreciate Debbie making the effort to

come out here and providing this great opportunity

for the cousins to be together.

THEY don't realize it now, but they are making

Memories and hopefully they are all fond ones!!
They sure are for us!

friendships

2011-07-15T22:14:00.000-07:00

We ALWAYS look forward to this opportunity each summer,

when Jamie Maxfield and her family come to Utah.

We were also excited to have Tiffany and her two adorable

children, Jamie's sister Carly AND my sister, Karli with her sweet girls,

join us as well. Needless to say we had a house FULL!!

12 kids and 5 adults.

I love these girls soo much. I could seriously have talked

to them for days. We never have enough time to

catch up. But I still cherish the time we get together!

No matter how long we haven't seen each other, it is just

as though we are roommates in college again, as

comfortable as can be.

Thank you my dear friends for coming, letting our kids

make memories, and just doing what WE do best...

TALK, TALK, TALK!

surprisingly with all these kids, there was very little fighting.

some were doing this...

many were doing this...

it was definitely another wonderful memory made!
*******************
Ame and Jordyn were lucky and got to have a

sleepover together. Jordyn is such a sweet,

somewhat reserved, easygoing girl. Such a cutie!

**********************

I also got to have a wonderful BELATED birthday

lunch with another dear friend, Jodi.

She is one of those individuals who inspires you

in soo many ways. Someone you want to emulate

and grow up to become! Thank you Jodi for

a delicious lunch and even better conversation.

We too could have talked for many more hours!

Wedding Day

2011-07-14T21:48:00.000-07:00

This past week we attended the wedding and reception

of our nephew Kekoa.

He lived with us for a few months last year,

so we have a special place in our hearts for Koa.

This is Quinn's oldest sister Kuulei and her boys
Kekoa and Ikaika.

After the wedding we did A LOT of waiting around

these cousins sure looked cute in their matching dresses.

the kids sure love Ashlyn, Sheri (and Kimo's) daughter.Ash is quite the photographer

I am sure this was such a surreal moment for

Kuulei. I teared up as I thought about the day

my own children get to this point.

Soo glad I have many years to prepare!

there was LOTS of dancing and my kids had a BLAST!

loved these decorations

and the cake

It was a beautiful night!!

Ame and I talked on the way home,

the one things that would have made this

night perfect and SHE replied...

if they would have gotten married in the temple!

*I am so glad she already knows*

Bday

2011-07-14T21:12:00.000-07:00

MY day started with a trip to the dentist

with my boys. But the best gift ever was

NO CAVITIES. Much better than the last visit.

When I got home this is the note I found...

(for some reason everytime I loaded it on here

it posted side ways). Ame is such a sensitive,

sweet girl! And that microwave LAVA cake

WAS a great surprise (thanks for teaching

her that trick mom). A great start to my day!!
Then Ame joined me on a mommy/daughter

date of shopping and root beer floats. Quinn also set up a surprise dinner with some very

dear friends. We could have talked all night,

but evetually we got a phone call for a crying

20 month old who needed his mama!

Then on Sunday, Quinn treated me again, by inviting
HIS family for dinner that HE made (mostly anyway).
He even made this cake (well his sister decorated it
with the berries). Very delicious!
Unfortunately I didn't get many pictures from this gathering.

Nalu just follows Amaya around taunting her!
Isn't he sweet!!!

Although I am NOT grateful to be a year older, I am thankful

for all the wishes and love I felt from so many family and friends!
Of course what is a gathering at our place without

a little dancing...

Fourth of July Celebrations

2011-07-14T20:56:00.000-07:00

We had a FUN FILLED 4th of July.

I did a 5K run in the morning (wimpy run compared

to the ones many of my friends are running), then

we took the kids to the Layton Parade, Quinn played some

pick up vball in the park, we walked around the park

and booth for a while, got some shave ice.

Headed home for a few hours to nap.

Then spent the rest of the evening with our

good friends the Wadman's. They were gracious

enough to invite us over for a BBQ.

Then we headed down the street to watch the city

fireworks. We waited and waited...

and they finally began.

Even though LOTS of our neighbors had the really

GOOD fireworks for several nights, Kaipo insisted we

do our own too. We don't spend much on ours.

But he was happy anyway!

This year I tried to be much more mindful

of my blessings and freedoms.

I feel soo much gratitude for all those who

have lost their lives, so I could have the life I do

(as hard as it may be at times), at,

and my children can enjoy life each day!

Friends

2011-07-03T22:00:00.001-07:00

This past week I got to go to lunch with some

old friends/neighbors from Riverdale.

It was a lot of fun catching up and much needed

GIRL talk!

Then Saturday night we went to Movie in the Park

with some more friends.

the kids saw Heidi, one of their old babysitters.

She ran up and gave them all hugs and told them

how BIG they all were. She was very cute with them!

Tara and I had some great talk time!

there was even FREE ice cream!

can't beat THAT!!

More Fun SuMmEr memories.

kids and their randomness

2011-07-03T21:46:00.000-07:00

Ame has been creating some AWESOME FHE lessons lately.

This one was titled:

"There is Beauty all around when there is love at home".

We talked about what can bring Peace and Love into our home.

Ame LOVES sharing her creativity and

she continues to fill our home with the spirit! And the boys and to share their Scripture Power

Books from Primary too.

From the above pictures you can see the boys were
ready for haircuts. They all got the same one...
NO MAINTENANCE!

Firework is our new pet fish. He's made it 3 days now?!

I always find randomness on the camera.

This time Ash got ahold of it...

what a wierdo!

Hope it was a HaPpY Father's Day for all

2011-06-21T21:28:00.001-07:00

The kids are always excited for these SPECIAL

days to honor someone that they LOVE so much!

They spent lots of time making books and cards

for Quinn. Of course it wouldn't be Father's Day

if we didn't serve breakfast in bed.

Nalu didn't get what was going on,

but he still was cute as ever...

(With the help of Jamie and her incredible talent)

I made this sign for Quinn to hang in his office

(which I still need to get hung).

I thought it was fitting...

I was sad to NOT be with my own dad this year, but

the kids and I made ecards and email videos

to express our LOVE and appreciation to him.

And we did get to spend the evening with most of Quinn's

family, to celebrate and appreciate Kimo.

All in all it was a simple, but hopefully HaPpY Day

for our special DAD's!!

the Beginning of Summer

2011-06-21T21:05:00.000-07:00

We started a new behavior incentive at our house.

The kids can earn GOTCHA tickets, for good behavior

(listening the first time, not complaining, doing extra helpful things, etc)

After ALL 3 OF THEM earned 10 I said we could

sleep on the tramp, since they have been begging to do it.

Well they earned it more quickly than I anticipated,

in just one week, and so I was bound to

join them on the tramp for a night of restful sleeping...

NOT REALLY. After about an hour Ash went inside

because he wanted to sleep in his own bed.

That made it a little better, but we woke up

several times with blankets all over the place and

the other two continuously rolling on top of me!

FINALLY at about 4:30 Ame and Kaipo

agreed we should go inside and get a few hours

of good sleep. Thank goodness!

Now that they have done it, hopefully they won't

be asking to do it again for a LONG time:?!

But it was a fun memory made!

The beautiful WARM weather has finally made it

so we headed to the pool.

We traded Kaipo for Ella,

for a few days. In addition to swimming,

late nights, movies, makeup, and lots of GIRL fun

the girls also planned a LIMEade stand.
Of course it is never as $$ producing as they would

have hoped, but that is just one of the many

summer fun MUST dos...

and so summer has REALLY begun and we are lovin' it!

Father AND Sons

2011-06-12T20:58:00.000-07:00

Quinn decided about 8:00 Friday night that he was

going to take the boys to the Father AND Sons campout.

He has taken Kaipo once before I think.

Quinn isn't much of a camper. I'm not sure why

(I think his snoring might have something to do with it).

Our kids would LOVE to go REAL camping if we

ever took them. But we don't have any camping gear,

so that is the first set back.

Anyways, of course when Quinn announced

they were going athough they didn't do any

REAL camping, Kaipo and Ash were

excited as can be to go!

They loaded the futon mattress into the back

of the Armada, some blankets, pillows,

and they were good to go... a little early morning snacking-

chips and soda
while watching a movie
(like I said, no REAL camping experience)

then it was time for the REAL campfire breakfast.
They did get to sit around the campfire,
roast marshmallows and make smores the night before.
Kaipo had lots of stories about burning plates and sticks
(pretty much anything to do with the FIRE was exciting)

the only real negative that came from this trip was,

despite me specifically telling Quinn there was

bug spray in their bag, Kaipo and Ash were eatin'

alive. He thought it would be nice to sleep with

the windows of the car OPEN...hhmmm

(like I said, not really camping smart in this family).

As long as they haven't contracted west nile virus,

they should be OK once the itchy bites disappear!??!

I am glad they ended up going and having some BOY fun.

Ame and I put Nalu down and had some of our own

GIRL fun. All it took was a movie and TREATS,

and us girls were happy as can be!!

cRaFtY

2011-06-12T20:54:00.000-07:00

Ame bought a box of iron on's a while back,

and finally got to make a cRaFtY design

on her very own shirt she is quite proud of the results,

as she should be!!
the start of MANY summer crafts!

Celebrate

2011-06-06T20:49:00.001-07:00

Today our same neighbors who did the Easter Egg

Hunt for the neighborhood planned a

Schools Out Carnival...

complete with face painting, games,

cotton candy, shave ice, water slide, bounce house, prizes and more.
Ame and some of the young ladies got to help with the games
AND do most of the face painting. They were LOVING
being IN CHARGE!

Nalu was content most of the time IN the

stroller, as long I kept the cups holders stocked with popcorn

(oh yeah, something else this fun carnival provided).

We just seem REALLY lucky and GRATEFUL

to live in such an AWESOME neighborhood!

The only negative about this carnival

was the weather didn't cooperate to well.

It was WINDY and cloudy.

Thank goodness only a few sprinkles

and the temps were still pretty warm,

so it wasn't too bad.

We all still had a BLAST!!

Dirty Dash 2011

2011-06-06T15:52:00.001-07:00

Saturday 8 of my friends and I did the Dirty Dash.

It was a 5K obstacle course through the mud, up in Midway.

Ame decided she wanted to come watch her mom

get REALLY muddy, cheer me on and be the photographer.

A couple of the girls families came, so Ame got

to help babysit as well.

The weather was perfect! Slightly overcast,

but sunny at times and in the mid 70's.

Here we all are: (left to right)
Nancy, Shannon, Jessica, Amy H,

Me, Lindsey, Amy S, Katie, and Amber.

The arches behind us is the the starting line.

Here's how the course was from the get go...muddy to our ankles.
I thought if THIS is how the whole thing is I don't know if
I am going to enjoy this much. PLus I felt like my shoes were
going to come off if I ran too fast?!

None of us knew quite what to expect, since we hadn't done it before.

It was a lot of UP hill, with obstacle along the way, such

as stacked haybails or walls to climb over, each with big amounts of

mud before and after, tires to run through, and a few others

I can't quite remember. SPrinklers of course to spray us

and to keep the course wet. The WHOLE trail wasn't muddy, but LOTS

of it was. My feet felt soo gross, and by the end they were just filled with

rocks and felt like 50 lbs.

We laughed A LOT! Mostly at some particular runners and their

outfits, especially the girl doing it solo in her thong swimsuit.

Yes there were all kinds of costumes!
We were spread out throughout the race, going at different paces.

I mostly ran with 2 other girls, but we waited for the rest of our group

to slide down the blow up slide at the end and then go through this...

to the finish line.

You could pretty much get as dirty as you wanted.

We were dirty, but not real bad and decided at the

end we needed to be MUCH more MUddy, so

we made some slides and dives

and turned out like this...

Afterwards we had 2 choices for trying to clean off-

(both outside community showers)

FREEZING cold fire hydrant water

OR pay $3 for a warm, trickle of a shower.

Some of us chose to pay for warmth, which

consisted of getting a warm/cold powerwash first,

then stand in another LONG line, and shiver

for what felt like FOREVER to then TRY to get

the majority of the mud off, while crowds of

people gawked and wondered why we were

all shivering like crazy, because

NOT wet it was really quite pleasant outside.

The we got to change our clothes in a big tent with

tons of other naked ladies. Ame was my towel holder,

as I tried to be somewhat modest.

Even knowing the end result of fingers turning

purple and having mud caked everywhere,

we are already making plans for next year!!

We know our group is going to get much

bigger next time, as many others

who were reluctant about the idea, now

see and hear stories about what a blast

we had and want to join us next time.

Gettin' dirty sure is fun!!

a COLD field day

2011-06-03T18:32:00.000-07:00

Thursday was Field Day for the kids

and out of the whole week of semi-warmth

this was the only day it was down right COLD

(don't let the picture fool you-after I took it

I was sent back to the classroom to grab LOTS

of sweatshirts that they thought they didn't need).Ash came with mom to help out and join in on the fun.
Kaipo showing Ash how to Pass the Water

Kaipo and his fun little Kinder friends

and a cute little girl in his class, Marina

(she is the sister to Ame's best friend Layla).

Despite the cold the kids LOVED their shaved Ice.

SOOO grateful for these opportunities,

especially since I know I won't be able to

be apart of many next year :(

Afterwards, Daddy brought the kids lunch and

joined them in a COLD picnic with the class.

Grateful we BOTH have the flexibility right now

to enjoy these simple and fun days with the kids.

Thankfully Ame and Kaipo are still at the age that they

BEG us to come and join in on their adventures.

I know their enthusiasm for our involvement

and having us around isn't going to last much longer,

so for now we will CHERISH these moments!!

Kindergarten Program

2011-06-01T21:47:00.000-07:00

In class, doing some last minute practicing. Miss Shelley

the MOST patient, firm but loving teacher.

She has been just what Kaipo needed this year!

let the show begin...

Oh how I LOVE my Kaipo.

He does NOT fit the mold, instead he is unique and creative!

He is soo intelligent and has grown so much as a reader

this year, now reading chapter books

and is soo excited about it!

(he is into the Magic Tree House series)

Just like the quote on his wall says...

My mother has a great deal of trouble with me,

but I think she enjoys it.

Yes I do!!

FRIENDS program

2011-06-01T21:37:00.000-07:00

The second graders had a program today about friends.

It was really cute and Ame did great!

Don't mind the horrible video...we REALLY need an

actual video camera that gives us NON-blurry video!

You can still sort of see which one is Ame???

It is really fun for me to go to things at the school since I have subbed for these kids soo many times. They all know me and I can actually remember most of their names.

independence

2011-06-01T21:20:00.000-07:00

I LOVE that Nalu is gaining some independence

and can entertain himself now.
A few updates:
Nalu is talking more and more every day.
Today all day he kept saying...
Ame, Ame, Ame.
Oh how I LOVE this boy!!
He is quite the funny one-
he likes to make funny noises, play silly games
with the kids and he laughs a lot.
Unfortunately he has become such a picky eater.
A few things that I CAN always count on are:
cheese, yogurt (thank goodness since he doesn't drink milk)
crackers and peanut butter, applesauce, grapes,
cereal bars, bananas (pretty much his everyday breakfast)...
everything else is unpredictable. One day he likes something
(like mac-n-cheese) and the next he won't touch it.
Oh and of course many kinds of sweets-ice cream, cookies, etc.
He LOVES them too!
Hopefully this stage passes soon, but not too likely
since his siblings are much the same way?!

changes...

2011-05-28T13:35:00.001-07:00

This is going to be a place I spend A LOT of time,

starting in August (much before then really).

Luckily it is only about 5 minutes away.

I just got hired on as a 4th grade teacher.

They have totally rearranged and adjusted their 4th grade.

I am going to be the veteran teacher with just 5 years experience.

Not having taught for 5 years, makes me feel very inadequate to take on

such a responsibility! But I know the principal well,

since he is in our ward, and he will be AWESOME to work for.

So at least have that going for me?!

There's going to be CHANGES all around for our family,

to adjust to MOM working full time and DAD

continuing to work from home while trying to be MR. Mom!

Good thing we have the summer to prepare.

graduation

2011-05-26T22:09:00.001-07:00

Tonight we went to Ikaika's graduation

from Timpview High School in Provo.

Here he is pictured with his older brother Koa

(who lived with us last year for a few months)

and his mom, Kuulei (Quinn's older sister).

Our family.

Not the best picture,

but you take what you can get, right?!

Grandpa Kimo with his oldest grandson's

Kaika with his Dad and Mom.
They are not still married, but have great boys, and
each are such neat individuals who have done
great things with their lives.

the graduation ceremony was LONG of course

but the kids did very well

(WITH LOTS OF TREATS)

and playing with their cousins.

It was a fun night with family and

a definite reason to celebrate.

Ikaika is an amazingly talented kid,

who I just know is going to do GREAT things!

a little of THIS and a little of THAT

2011-05-26T21:57:00.001-07:00

Saturday Kaipo had his first tumbling class.

It is offered through the city, and is a great way

to TRY IT OUT for 5 weeks, to

see if he has an interest.

He is definitely a MONKEY,

which helps him climb the rope. Ame and the GIRLS in her primary class
got invited to be the servers for a wedding reception.

She was soo excited and look forward to this

FUN opportunity all week!!

In Ame's ENGLISH class, each student got
to have an opportunity to be THE TEACHER.
They each chose something they wanted to
teach the class in a mini lesson.
Ame loves writing in cursive and since
that is something not introduced in second grade
she thought it would be fun to teach THAT to
her class. Quinn and I came to watch her
and she is quite the little teacher! She practiced some of the
more difficult letters together with the class,
then taught them how to write a few HAWAIIAN
words in cursive.

giving some personal attention to her BFF Layla.

Ame and Mrs Smith

He's growin' up...

2011-05-23T20:58:00.000-07:00

Tonight we had JOYSCHOOL graduation.

Our original plans were to have it outdoors,

but with the unpredictable weather

we opted to have it indoors at our house.

Good thing we had a change of plans,

because the evening

ended up being a rainy one.

We were crowded, but that didn't

stop the cuteness and fun!

the GREAT moms I did Joyschool with this year

(Jody, Jenny, Julie, Cathy, me, Diana and Lindsey).

I conducted and we had a cute,simple program.

The kids sang a few songs, they got report cards,

diplomas and hat. And even gave us moms

an award. One of the moms put together

an outstanding video with clips from

throughout the year. Such a fun memory to have on DVD.

I sure love my incredibly smart, sensitive, handsome Ash!!!

giving mom a kiss...

We have lots of yummy treats and fancy drinks.

A special night to celebrate OUR special boy!!

Pee Wee Sports

2011-05-11T20:38:00.000-07:00

Ash has been sooo excited to start his

SPORTS class.

It is an intro class to soccer, football and baseball.

He definitely has some natural athletic ability.

helping his coach set things up

introductions

doing some stretching

practicing some dribbling & passing

(notice Nalu in the background-

I just couldn't keep him out of the game)

we are looking forward to lots more fun

with this class.

a VERY grateful Mother

2011-05-08T21:16:00.000-07:00

What more can I say than

WOW I truly feel like the luckiest mother in the world!!

I mean look at these kids...they are the light of my life.my day started with the traditional breakfast in bed

(which the kids mostly ate of course)

and nothing is sweeter than homemade gifts

Ame's gift she made at school.
how simple, but soo creative and special!

Quinn invited his mom to our ward

where he shared his amazing talent and sang solo
"A Mother's Love"
He said the nerves were STRONG, but no one

could tell. He did am incredible job and sounded beautiful!

I just love these girls. They are soo thoughtful, generous

hilarious and just FUN!! And they are amazing MOMS.
(isn't little Amaya such a cutie)

Quinn's brother got a new 3D Tv so everyone had fun

watching a Movie with the cool glasses!

As a mom I just couldn't ask for more beautiful, intelligent,

loving, thoughtful children. Every single day they amaze

me with their wisdom and teach me so much!

I pray daily to be more patient and more loving,

so that I can show my appreciation more sincerely

for the blessing Heavenly Father has given me,

to be their mom!

I am also grateful beyond measure for

my own amazing mother.

She is a woman full of

charity, kindness, sincerity, compassion, and

wisdom. A true treasure and woman to be honored!
I love you MOM and miss you tremendously,

but love you even more for your sacrifice,

your love for the Lord and his church.

I KNOW you are blessing many, many lives!!

Happy Mother's Day to YOU.

****************

I honor ALL you amazing mom, who are my family & friends.

You are my examples of Christlike love for your own children

and teach me so much just by watching your gentleness.
thank you all!

A SpEcIaL Day

2011-05-01T20:25:00.000-07:00

Today was a Very Special Day for the Grover family,

especially this sweet little angel.

Her daddy gave her a beautiful blessing.

(this is not a picture from today, but you may recognize

it as one from Karli's recent Easter blog post) Unfortunately, I did not get any

pictures of Avery before she was

taken out of her beautiful little dress,

but I am VERY sure her mommy did!

Afterwards, Karli was a wonderful host

and served some delicious food.
All were well fed, with full, happy tummies!

these two took turns with the little kid chair

we were soo thankful we could

REPRESENT the Asplund side of the family

and share in this special day for precious Avery.
(Jason and LeAnne were actually here this weekend

so they got to stay just long enough

for the blessing and then had to hit the long

road back home to Oregon).

despite the cold temps outside

the OLDER kids headed outdoors,

while cute little Taylor

watched from indoors.

that little Kaiya is quite the driver

in this little machine.

NO FEAR driving off the curbs and

down the sidewalks. My kids were even

having fun taking a ride in the passenger seat!

thanks Kar for inviting us to share in

this special day with your beautiful family!

Guess Who?

2011-05-01T20:18:00.000-07:00

At School, Kaipo has been learning

Nursery Rhymes, so this week

they got to dress up.

Can you guess who he was?Old King Cole

It was a very LAST MINUTE

throw together.

Thanks BK for the crown (that I covered

with gold wrapping paper) and

DI for the robe and gold belt.

Grandma

2011-04-26T21:40:00.000-07:00

We got word this morning of the passing of Grandma Asplund.

Although we knew her health was failing, it just didn't

prepare any of us for this sad news.

The hardest was when I finally got to talk to

my parents and to see my dad's eyes filled with tears.

I just can't say enough, how grateful I am that we made

it to Canada last fall to be with her and the

Asplund Family to celebrate the 90th birthday of this beautiful,

amazing woman. It wasn't an easy trip for any

of us, and it wouldn't have been possible

without the tremedous help of my parents.

But it was soo worth!

My kids still talk about our trip to

CANADA all the time. I am so glad

they got to meet her and now have fond

memories to hold dear. At dinner tonight I talked with the kids about the passing

of Great Grandma. And as sad as we all felt, we

agreed she is peaceful now, in Heaven WITH

Great Grandpa.
My sister Karli, who is soo eloquent with words,

shared a beautiful tribute to my grandma.

I could never express it the way she did.

So go to her blog and read what an amazing

grandma we have. No wonder we have such

an incredible father!

Leah Asplund was and is a woman to

cherish and remember with fondness!

Easter Fun

2011-04-26T21:11:00.000-07:00

the kids decorated eggs were all smiles
and Ame took it VERY serious.

with a touch of gold and

their own personal artistic touch

This year our neighborhood started

a NEW tradition, that I LOVE...

instead of going to the ridiculously

crazy, city park egg hunts,

we had a neighborhood hunt.

It was Fantastic!

We had a great turn out and I am excited

to see it grow as the kids do!

Then we headed to the GRAND opening of

this place in Bountiful.

Ame's polynesian dance teacher's sister

opened this restaurant, and so Ame's group performed.

It was FREEZING, but the food AND entertainment

was well worth it!

For those who know the group Fiji.

I was told the group who performed Na Drua

are their cousins (that doesn't mean much

since every polynesian seems to be cousins),

but they were great to listen to.

Nalu loved the music and dancing

and kept trying to join them.

A fun filled Saturday. No one

ended this day on an empty stomach!

*And if you are ever in, or passing through

Bountiful, you should definitely check this

place out. The food is AWESOME!

(it's off the 5th South exit)

Easter

2011-04-26T20:27:00.000-07:00

A little out of order, breakfast came in the middle

of these pics, but I didn't feel like trying to reorder these.

Caught 'em before their mad dash

to see what the easter bunny brought...

the EB always brings flip flops for all the kids.

Too bad the weather hasn't allowed

for wearing them yet?!
I think Ash had most of his candy eaten

BEFORE breakfast...he is a candy junky for sure!

Nalu was excited to be apart of the
craziness, even though he didn't quite get
what was going on.

this year the EB brought each of the kids
a new church video. Since church movies
are the only thing allowed in our home
on Sundays, the video supply needed some
new additions.
It was an EARLY morning, but once the
baskets were devoured and breakfast was
had, all by 8am, videos started and all was quiet.
(thank goodness we don't have church until 11)
And mom could take a shower :)
Here's the kiddos all ready in their Easter attire.
Ash got to give his first prayer in Primary,
so he was extra excited!
We tried really hard this year (despite the
small amount of Easter treats & prizes)
to help the kids remember and focus on the real
reason for our celebration at this time.
As Kaipo put it-
all the eggs and candy and stuff don't really
matter...It's Jesus who does!
I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE this picture of Nalu.
Just too cute.

Have to share a quick story about Ame
and the hat. SO I was out shopping and looking
for other things, and saw this hat. She already had
the dress. I called her and asked if I got a hat would
she wear it, and she said a BIG excited YES.
She LOVED her outfit, until she arrived at
church and NO one else was wearing a hat.
She became very self conscious and did not
want to wear it anymore. I finally convinced
her it MADE her outfit and its OK
to be unique and different.

No pictures, but after church we headed down
South to spend the rest of the day with QUinn's
family. His sister doesn't have grass in their yard
yet, and we heard it was going to rain, so we
did an UNTRADITIONAL pinata.
As QUinn overheard me discussing the idea
with his sis a few days prior, he commented
You know we are not hispanic, RIGHT?!
The kids don't care how they get the candy.
It's great no matter how it comes!
*************************
It was a simple, but crazy day.
I am thankful for the brief moments
I was able to spend in contemplation
of my Savior and HIS sacrfice and death.
And then HIS amazing resurrection.
For each one of us.
I feel truly blessed and grateful
for my knowledge of the Plan of Salvation
and the peace it can bring,
amidst life's challenges.
HE LIVES!

Hola!

2011-04-16T14:38:00.000-07:00

On Friday, Ame went down to BYU for the Language Fair.

A few select students from each grade level, in the

Spanish Immersion Program were selected

(they had to try-out)

to join a team to represent our school.

Each student had to do something independent,

Ame did a "show and tell", all in spanish of course,

and they were also involved in a group skit.

They have had to go to school early 3 days a week

for the past 6 weeks to practice, and she

has spent a lot of time at home memorizing as well.

They had to be at the school bright and early

in the morning, 6:30am!

She was sooo excited for this day.

Here's Ame and Taelynn, on their way...

waiting for their turn...

getting ready to perform their skit

She had 2 parts, here she is one of the bugs,

and she also had another cool mask to play the part of The Wind.

Ame and Emma (she is one of her good friends in third grade)

Grandpa came with dad to support Ame.

Mom just thought it would be TOO MUCH to

drag all our boys to this even EARLY in the morning.

I was sad I couldn't go, but grateful QUinn was able to.

We are SOO extrememly proud of Ame!

She worked so hard to get ready for this,

and unlike the majority of the other students involved

this is her first year learning spanish.

She got a rating of EXCELLENT-they were graded

on projection, clarity of speech, pronunciation

and a few other things I can't remember. Ame you are OUTSTANDING!!!

We love you precious girl

PIzza and Movie night with Friend

2011-04-09T16:56:00.000-07:00

The kids were promised as part of their SPring Break fun

that they could have FRIENDS over for Pizza & a Movie.

The kid got to MAKE their own pizza.

Ame also made a Yummy ice cream treat, which everyone of course devoured (despite the fact that there was a blizzard outside). Kaipo invited a boy from his class named Braxton and Ame invited 2 friends Olivia and Taelynn. I felt kind of bad not arranging for Ash to have a friend over too, but he didn't seem to mind.

7 kids=CRAZINESS!!!

In addition

2011-04-07T20:09:00.000-07:00

We have been getting some much needed

SPRING CLEANING done during spring break,

but also Ame and I have been doing some baking and crafting.

Ame checked out some books from the library

with kid friendly recipe's.

She is just like her mama in that she

likes to try new recipes, especially when

they include chocolate!

And we made some new hairclips.

I sure enjoy our GIRL time together!

Our day trip Logan

2011-04-07T19:51:00.000-07:00

Today the kids and I took a drive up to Logan

to see Karli and her girls.

Much needed sister time and fun with cousins.

We ran into a little snow driving up there,

but mostly rain. As the day progressed

though, the weather turned blizzardy

and we were found running from one activity

to another. Thank goodness we had no OUTdoor plans?!

We ate lunch aat McD's and let the kids

run wild there a bit

(along with the millions of other kids who's parents

had the same idea as we did),

then we went to a FunCenter, and let them

RUN, CLIMB and SLIDE some more.

Despite the age difference, my kids were super excited to see their cousins and they are very good to play so gently with the little girls. Ame was saving all the little kids when they got sad, scared or hurt. Boy is she going to be a wonderful babysitter soon!!

Nalu had more fun dragging everything

out of the diaper bag than anything else.

That little CUTE stinker!

Notice Ash's shirt.

I saw it at the store and HAD to get

it for him, he is ALWAYS asking for

music to listen to, and loves to have an

MP3 player in hand.

He is quite the singer AND dancer

(and this kid can remember the words

to songs like no other).

Thanks Kar for venturing out with

your little ones (especially Avery).

We had such a fun day!

There is nothing better than spending time

and making memories with family!!

Wonderful!

2011-04-03T20:10:00.000-07:00

The past two days have been outstanding!

I have always looked forward to watching conference,

but this year I wasn't the only excited one.

Once I found these packets, I had a house full

of excited kids too! We have always done

Conference Bingo, which held their attention

for a bit, but these were wonderful!

Now did it keep the kids occupied and focused

during the entire 4 sessions, of course not!

But much more than it normally does.

Thank You Sugardoodle, thank you!!

I feel renewed and uplifted, with some new

personal goals in mind and areas to focus & improve.

At the end of this conference weekend

we ALL feel well fed, both spiritually

and physically (way too much of this one I am afraid).

Now let Spring Break begin...and I guess the spring cleaning as well?!

He's the BIG 4!!

2011-03-27T21:08:00.001-07:00

Our BIG boy Ash turned 4 yesterday.

He had a little friend party on Friday,

mostly his Joy School friends and a couple

from our neighborhood.

LOTS of games...

Mickey says (like simon says)

Meeska Mooska Mickey Mouse (duck duck goose)

toss the mouse

freeze dance w/mickey tunes

treasure hunt

Ame LOVES taking charge with these! Kaipo just likes to join in with the kids

what is a party without SNACKS

and fun drinks with colorful (Koolaid) ice cubes, in sprite of course cupcakes

presesnts

this cute girl, Abby, is in his Joy School group.

She reminds me so much of my niece Ella.

After they were all tired out, we watched an episode of

Mickey Mouse Clubhouse while waiting for mom's to come.

Saturday we just had a relaxing day

eating chocolate pancakes,opening and playing with presents,

getting baskin robbins and eating out for Ash's birthday dinner.

Don't ask me WHY I don't have pictures of THIS day

(maybe it was the tiredness from my BUSY week of

working, teaching, organizing.... I just plum forgot).

But I think Ash had a great few days of celebration.

He sure is our special kid, who is growing and changing tons!

Boy does he have extreme attitude. One minute he is pleasant,

happy and oh soo sweet, the next he is throwing a fit about

anything and EVERYTHING! Here is a bit of

Ash at age 4:

*amazing with sign language (thanks signing time)

*writes and says letters & numbers, including his name & his siblings

*pretty incredible at basketball & golf (natural athlete)

*LOVES to play the Wii, computer and his new leapfrog explorer

*likes to sing (always asking to listen to music)

and can remember words to soo many songs

*is FINALLY starting to play well with his older brother

and they like to play legos & "make-believe" all sorts of things together

*super excited about his new BIG boy skooter

*is soo sweet and full of compliments all the time

for example: "mom, you look beautiful today" or

"Ame looks soo pretty", "Kaipo and dad are handsome"

he is definitely going to be my heart-breaker as he gets older!

We love Ash soo much. Can't even imagine our lives without

his sweetness and sometimes not soo sweet attitude.

He is constantly amazing us and cracking us up by the things

he says and does. He tries soo hard at everything, and always

does his very best! We couldn't be any prouder of our

4 Year Old BIG Boy Ashkiilani

Celebration continues

2011-03-21T21:16:00.000-07:00

We had Quinn's family over Sunday for a JOINT

bday celebration, belated for Kaipo and a little

early for Ash. Things were just really busy

around Kaipo's bday so we never got

to celebrate with the Hanamaikai

side of the family.

We did a little pirate theme for the boys.

With a mexican twist on the menu.

I HATE when the camera runs out at the just the wrong time...
I love how Kaipo sings and dances during the song and Ash

just grins and looks around at everyone singing TO HIM!

We had a blast with the cousins and family playing
JUST DANCE. It really is a great party game!
Unfortunately the camera was out of service, because I
didn't plan ahead and empty the memory card,
so no pics or video of the great dancing entertainment?!
But I am sure there will be many more future opportunities.

A LiTtLe GREEN

2011-03-21T21:00:00.000-07:00

We tried to have a little fun with green

for St.Patricks Day...

Breakfast: lucky charms, green muffins and leprechaun juice

Lunch: mac-n-cheese leprechaun style, rainbow fish,

green grapes and green koolaid

Dinner: I actually made Corned beef for the first time,

and it was actually well favored.

I was going to do GREEN mashed potatoes

but decided against it (I think that was a good choice),

coleslaw and I even made homemade french bread.

Topped off with green jello poke cake w/lime sherbet.

That was the best I could come up with ON THE SPOT,

besides thinking ahead and buying corned beef brisket.

Kaipo got a nice cut under his eye,during recess,

the day before class pictures.

Early Birthday FUN...Disney On Ice

2011-03-12T21:19:00.000-08:00

Ash is very into Disney, epecially Mickey Mouse, so

I thought it would be fun to take the kids to

Disney On Ice (since we can't afford the REAL thing).

Ash was sooo excited, kept asking

what day it was, because he knew

we were going on Friday.

Ame and Kaipo really had fun too!

Kaipo kept saying AWESOME

and Ame enjoyed dancin' to the music with me :)

And it was fun most of all to watch

Ash's excitement through the whole thing.

He leaned over a few times and hugged

me, saying I LOVE THIS MOM!!

the simple pleasures are what make life wonderful!

we didn't have the greatest seats, but there was no complaining

some of our favorites included:

-Lilo and Stitch-

-Princess and the Frog-
Toy Story (didn't get a good picture of it)

-the Christmas finale-

afterwards, Quinn and Nalu met us for dinner

@ Tucano's. A rare treat!

Our kids are huge meat and shrimp eaters,

so they were in HEAVEN!!

Kaipo's eyes were definitely bigger than his stomach.

He kept asking me why do they keep bringing us

more meat? so they can get more money??

(pretty much)
What a FUN evening for our little family.

And a memorable EARLY birthday gift for Ash!

One week ago...

2011-03-10T20:49:00.000-08:00

Almost one week ago Ame and I took

Grandma and Grandpa to the airport

at 5:3o Friday morning, to catch their flight to Germany.

We were soo sad to say our goodbyes (again),

but are very proud of them and their committment to the Lord.

I took a picture that morning of mom and dad

(all dressed in their missionary attire) with Ame.

I am soo mad somehow that picture is gone from my

camera (darn kids playing with the camera).

We had them over earlier that week for dinner and everyone said

their sad good bye. Ame definitely had the hardest time

saying good bye to grandma and grandpa. Several tears fell

down those cheeks, as she hugged and kissed them. She

is definitely the closest to her grandparents, as they

in turn have a soft spot for their OLDEST grand-daughter.

We decided that night, that Ame would secretly come

with mom to take them to the airport

and get to say one last good bye!

The were of course pleasantly surprised to see her again.

And now just as before, we will anxiously look forward to our

weekly phone call and getting to see each other via Skype.

So together we begin a new adventure

WITH Elder and Sister Asplund....in Germany!

These are two are THE MOST AMAZING people I know!

I LOVE YOU more than I could ever express

and am proud of you just the same.

the kids NEW entertainment

2011-02-27T20:46:00.001-08:00

(gettin' down with some friends)

The kids recently got this

Wii game and LOVE it!!

Ame had kind of lost interest

in the Wii because most of our games

were BOY games I guess you could say,
but SHE is loving this one.

I am glad because it is great exercise and she is actually

quite good at it. Ash really gets into it too. He is soo cute to watch

because he gets soo serious and concentrates very hard,

always looking over at Ame for reassurance. Kaipo joins in

occasionally too. Quinn and I have played a few times with them.

And lets just say any rhythm I may have thought I had,

is not quite like it may have once been. If you ever want

to test your own skills OR feel uncooridnated

(cuz THAT is what someone wants, right),

just try it. I guess it's kind of how I felt

the first time I did Zumba. But if you stick

to it, you just might kind of get the hang of it?!

Grandma and Grandpa even gave it a try

when they were over one night before they left.

Really wish I would have gotten THAT on video!!

My mom and I were commenting what

an awesome couples party this would be...

#6 looses #2

2011-02-27T20:29:00.000-08:00

Well this 6 year old lost tooth #2,

with the help of his sister (the family dentist).

Ame pulled out most of the teeth she has lost

AND has now pulled out both teeth Kaipo has lost.

I think she definitely has a future in dentistry?!?!

You can't hardly tell from the picture that

Kaipo lost a tooth, since his permanent tooth

has already grown in behind. So wierd...

that was the same process with his first.

That never happened with Ame.

Seems wierd, because he never really has

a whole in his mouth. Hopefully he get to

experience that FEELING at least once.

Here is Kaipo's letter to the tooth fairy

and her response is the last word

(a short and sweet reply, what else can

you expect from the BUSY tooth fairy).

Now he has a few more dollars to

add to his LARGE savings (birthday money & allowance).

I am soo surprised he has not asked to spend it all yet?!

a VERY memorable weekend

2011-02-21T20:44:00.001-08:00

WOW, it has been a crazy busy weekend,

but definitely one to remember!

My brothers and their families came into town

to support my parents as they begin their mission adventure.

So on Saturday we all met in SLC @ the church

history museum. The children's section is

awesome and so much fun for all the kids to explore.

Then we headed to Chuck-e-Cheese for MORE fun.

It was definitely a day for the kids!!

Of course I forgot my camera that day, but thank goodness

my mom and sister in law remembered theirs

(so I will have to steal some from them soon)!

SUnday was our boys' BIG day to turn 6.

The kids always request breakfast in bed,

but when you have a boy who wakes up at 6-6:30

you have make him pretend to go back to sleep

in order to get breakfast IN bed.

He requested Einstein Bagels, but that is a

little hard on Sunday morning, and I had even

meant to go their the evening before, but they closed

before we returned from all our family fun.

So he was happy with donuts mom

picked up the night before.

We had a lazy morning opening and enjoying
presents for our birthday boy, then it was off
to grandma and grandpa's ward.
They gave wonderful-inspiring talks,
and we had a few other surprises as well.
ALthough she had been soo sick, Karli and her family made it, as
well as a surprise from my grandma thurgood and other family members.
Quinn shared his beautiful talent with us all, and sang
Our Savior's Love (SOLO I might add). He tried to convince
Ame and I, and others to sing with him, but we all chicken out!
He did an amazing job, and I am not even biased :)
I just can't express enough how much
I love and admire my parents for
their dedication to the Lord and HIS church.
Despite all that may be missed while they are gone,
they know they are needed and they GO and Do as the
Lord asks of them! They are true examples of LOVE and SERVICE!
As much as we will all miss them remendously,
we are excited to share in another adventure with them.
Definitely a bitter sweet opportunity!

In addition to enjoying a wonderful day with family,
who joined us from near and far,
I got some snuggles with
sweet Avery.
That evening most of us got to join my parents
at their setting apart for their mission.
They even invited the 3 oldest baptized
grandchildren (which included Ame)
to join us for this special opportunity.
It truly was special and a most spiritual memory!

And today, Monday, we had this...

and here HE is...

For some reason the pictures from the first half

of the party got deleted off my camera.

But they began with a archeologic dig for

Indiana Jones Lego pieces, after which they

worked together to put the lego's together.
The kids also had tons of fun with the Mummy wrap.

even Nalu had some fun with the T.P.

Kaipo wanted to be completely mummified

Ame was a GREAT help with the party

and loved taking charge, especially with the treasure hunt.

She wrote all the clues and

kept all the boys in line.

treasures included bugs/snakes, prizes and treats of all kinds.

We had a creepy things taste test, including:

monkey brains (cold pasta), eyeball soup (grapes in water),

beetles (chocolate raisins), sour worms, snake guts (jello).
Unfortunately that was at the beginning and I have no pictures.

But this was the SAND cake Kaipo requested-

We had a fun bunch of kids.

We were sad that some of our friends couldn't make

it, but were grateful for the friends and cousins who did,

and I think they enjoyed their ADVENTURE!

As much fun as this party was, boy it a lot of work for

this busy mom. After working Thursday and Friday,

then having all the family fun Saturday AND Sunday,

I was left with little prep time.

But Kaipo said it was THE BEST DAY,

so it was definitely worth a few late nights!!

We Love You Kaipolani and hope it really was

a Grand Day for you. You are our ONE OF A KIND

boy and we can't imagine life without YOU.

********************

We feel soo blessed with our own SWEET family

and all of our extended family...mom's, dad's, brother's,

sister's, aunts, uncles, cousins, grandparents, dear friends, etc.

A little of this and a little of that...means its been too long!

2011-02-13T21:04:00.000-08:00

Life just never seems to slow down, let alone provide

a few moments to blog. SO this post contains a lot of

randomness of what is keeping us busy...

LOTS of LOVE and playing

a little crafting
a LOT of EATING

friends and Joyschool

LOTS of time in the car and SOME smiles

mom and daughter haircuts-

no that is NOT mom, she was on the other side

of the room getting some serious chopping done.

For some reason NO pics?

and the MOST exciting event...

the birth of this beautiful little

(well not soo little really @ 8lbs.8oz) girl
*AVERY RYENNE*

she already know who her FAVORITE aunt is (haha)

Life is exciting, busy and mostly happy.

Lots to be thankful for!

Ame's first post

2011-01-22T18:15:00.000-08:00

This is me,Ame.

On Friday I went to my friend,Irelyn's birthday party.

She had a beach party.

We had hawian hay stacks & drank lemonaid.

Her mom Krislyn made grape ice cubes.

It made the drink taste like grape lemonaid.

YUM!

We played this game where Krislyn made a tray of objects, then she

would take away an

object(They were things that you use at the beach)

and we woud write down wich one we thought

she took off. We also played limbo.

Irelyn's mom made a sand cake for her birthday.

(She realy just put gram crackers,vanilla wafers,cool whip

& pudding)She scooped it out with a shovel.

Then we opened her presents.

We also made candy leis.

After we watched Jonny Lingo.

Then it was time to go.

I had sooo much fun!

I got these fake nails for christmas. My mom finally helped me put them on the other night. But I ended up taking them off right after because I realized they would bug me too much at school and I wouldn't even be able to wear gloves. They were really cute, and I was sad I took them off. I will have to try them again when it is warm and I don't have to worry about putting gloves on!

Birthday Celebrations

2011-01-17T08:47:00.000-08:00

We gave daddy some gifts-homemade cards, a candy lei,

and a few other things in the morning before church.

As well as had some donuts to celebrate.

Later in the day we headed south to spend some
time with HIS family. We had a combined
January Birthday Party, since there are four
in the family to be celebrated.
We ate, and played

had cake and cupcakes

and were thoroughly entertained
by these 2. They LOVED the sliding
glass door, followed each other around,

and are just soo darn cute together!!

All in all, it was a pretty mellow day, but

hopefully Quinn felt LOTS of LOVE,

relaxation, and was well fed!

Quinn is a wonderful man, friend,

husband and father.

He is always thinking of the best interest

of his family and others.

We LOVE you soo much honey and

hope you felt extra SPECIAL on YOUR day!!
(oops forgot about this last picture of Kaipo)

Someone is having a birthday???

2011-01-15T21:17:00.000-08:00

I pulled off a last minute surprise dinner for Quinn

@ Rooster's, with some of our neighborhood friends.

We had such a fun night just talking and hangin' out.

That 2+ hours went by WAY TOO FAST!

We don't get to enjoy this kind of opportunity often enough!!

(I hope it was a great start to his birthday celebration)

Winter Entertainment

2011-01-08T12:55:00.000-08:00

Since the kids got a tramp for Christmas,

what else do we do with it for the next several months...

so we set it up in the basement.

Yes Ame and Kaipo have to watch their

heads a bit, but our ceilings are 9ft. down there so they have

a little room to jump and entertain themselves.

Nalu even got in on the action...

FiNaLlY

2011-01-08T12:20:00.000-08:00

January 7, 2011

was the official day that Nalu took his first real steps. He was 14 months just a few days ago. Nalu has been walking along the kitchen table bench, couches and anything that would give him just the slightest bit of support, for quite some time now. We just knew anyday now he would take his first steps. Quinn swears he has been the one to teach all the kids to walk, but I don't agree with him on that one. Ame for sure because I was working at the time, but the others are a bit of a blur. Of course Nalu still crawls most of the time, but with encouragement (and some reminding) he is walking more and more. Hurray (I think), he is FiNaLlY doing it!!

(hopefully we will get some better video because the ones we took last night are awfully dark)

Also, he has gotten his teeth really randomly and in a strange order. He has had 4 teeth on top and 4 on bottom for quite a while now. I just noticed this past week that we has a molar already in. NO eye teeth, so just a big space and then this molar in the back. Interesting!! But he is just soo darn cute, who cares what craziness is going on in his mouth. They will all come in eventually, right!? And it won't matter in what order or how weird it may have looked for a time!