tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14190675812813487612024-03-05T00:39:21.775-06:00The Sparkman FamilyDave, Catherine, Chandler, and Calliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17212261778721676393noreply@blogger.comBlogger71125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1419067581281348761.post-28164204523846446632009-09-15T08:57:00.003-05:002009-09-15T09:09:55.291-05:00ConversationsCallie: Mom, I need a place to hang up my necklace.<br />Me: Why don't you put it in your jewelry box?<br />Callie. No, I want to hang it up. Maybe Daddy will put a hooker in my room.<br /><br /><br />The following conversation is heresay. I didn't actually hear it myself. The doctor did tell me about it firsthand. I'm pretty sure she's a reliable source. Chandler is underweight and the doctor has been after him about his eating.<br /><br />Dr.: Chandler, how have you been doing with your eating?<br />Chandler: Mostly, I like to fast.<br />Dr.: Fast?<br />Chandler: Yes, Jesus, fasted for forty days and forty nights and I'm willing to do it.<br /><br />The doctor was a little confused until I explained what fasting was and the we were NOT requiring our underweight six year old to do it. (For those of you who aren't members of our church, on the first Sunday of the month, the ADULTS skip two meals and donate the money they would have spent on the meals to the hungry.) Anyway, I honestly don't know where he got that. On the way home Chandler and I had the following conversation:<br /><br />Me: Chandler! Why did you tell the doctor you wanted to fast? She thought Mommy was making you go without food!<br />Chandler: Well, I do want to fast.<br />Me: You have your whole life to be grown up and fast. Right now you need go concentrate on eating right and growing big and strong.<br />Chandler: I just want to feel closer to Heavenly Father and Jesus.<br /><br />What the heck am I supposed to say to that??<br /><br />(On a side note, Chandler is doing better with his eating. He gained another pound last month.)Dave, Catherine, Chandler, and Calliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17212261778721676393noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1419067581281348761.post-46422132379711740242009-09-14T11:19:00.009-05:002009-09-14T15:34:01.944-05:00Back to School<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjq1zuDrhMhjzLzHPMEx75ZE1pq_C6UfYl7Mx_jgpKpnK0a1HdWPynbzXIdvD23SUuT25gcJWUCDOrCKuDzq0WbRCw5AFRV9NlR5W9DGJ_Kr5NS_gWuxVxlkAwynHZZONq2mqRWT7l9b7si/s1600-h/BillyMadison.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 269px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5381421027269425106" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjq1zuDrhMhjzLzHPMEx75ZE1pq_C6UfYl7Mx_jgpKpnK0a1HdWPynbzXIdvD23SUuT25gcJWUCDOrCKuDzq0WbRCw5AFRV9NlR5W9DGJ_Kr5NS_gWuxVxlkAwynHZZONq2mqRWT7l9b7si/s400/BillyMadison.jpg" /></a> <div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiACKHiekSOLLiHQPqYLl7sUfxzm3lYQMkXc2gjMRUMZMZaVqOr0dvL_uOWdX_FPvlmwQYg29agjMw6_MrZhtFZJvNh4f0qAeGNz_j9l7eK7yeJ2KoKnlw1d-YyCISIvFJFusxJq5V_7cFM/s1600-h/billy.jpg"></a></div><div align="center"><span style="color:#3333ff;">Back to School!</span></div><div><div align="center"><span style="color:#3333ff;">Back to School!</span></div><div></div><div align="center"><span style="color:#3333ff;">To p</span><span style="color:#3333ff;">rove to Dad that I'm not a fool!</span></div><div align="center"><span style="color:#3333ff;">I got my lunch packed up,</span></div><div></div><div align="center"><span style="color:#3333ff;">My boots tied tight!</span></div><div align="center"><span style="color:#3333ff;">I hope I don't get in a fight!</span></div><div align="center"><span style="color:#3333ff;">Ohhhh, back to school, back to school!</span></div><div></div><div align="center"><span style="color:#3333ff;">Here goes nothing!</span><br /></div><div align="center"><span style="color:#3333ff;"></span></div><div align="left"><span style="color:#333333;"></span></div><div><br /></div><div align="left"><span style="color:#333333;">I know you're all closet Billy Madison fans. I haven't seen it in like ten years, but the night before school started, I couldn't get this song out of my head.</span></div><div align="left"><span style="color:#333333;"></span> </div><div align="left"> </div><div align="left"><span style="color:#333333;"></span></div><div></div><div align="left"><span style="color:#333333;">August was back to school for three out of four Sparkmans. David started his student teaching in Tipton County. He spends about an hour in the car each way, 8 hours at school, 5 hours each night at Fed Ex, and very few hours sleeping. He is working very hard and we are so proud of him. I'm glad I have the below photo to remind me what he looks like.</span></div><div><br /><span style="color:#333333;">I made him take a posed back to school picture, like the kids. He loved it. (maybe not)</span></div><br /><div align="left"><span style="color:#333333;"></span></div><br /><div align="left"><span style="color:#333333;"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5381400341392458098" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicKG8UsaNfDhEhL4dJnLmXIGJUSUwDnH1v9FcaionPgaT7TWKazacRWctxV1y52GACvsip4S8R3BK8s3U3SzafjvB3QqvANefssCAndLL-LU2VBL5-ibUN68Wo61Jh7IIGKhp3xxkgqBbS/s400/08082daffb01__1252591289000%5B2%5D.jpg" /></span></div><br /><div align="left"><span style="color:#333333;"></span></div><br /><div align="left"><span style="color:#333333;">Chandler is a big 1st grader this year. He was not excited to leave kindergarten behind. (Hey, who wants to give up snack time and naps?) He loves science and math and tolerates reading and writing. He recently has decided he wants to be a marine biologist. If you want to hear a mouthful, ask him about dolphins and echolocation.</span></div><br /><div align="left"><span style="color:#333333;"></span></div><br /><div align="left"><span style="color:#333333;"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5381400335985399186" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgw1LcxE-EM4_Wfrer4i-Wzf_XfxdihJpcEYeXi4qVmjvs9ZMq7FYAj2BEKqH6Ix9dHptbQrHUGmYYoynRj099m_CiY6-v3ncAYIYjh1x1-nKZ5SvyOioQwjLiC5VeR9XSMSzxuGYoW8Ea3/s400/000_0042.jpg" /></span></div><br /><div align="left"><span style="color:#333333;"></span></div><br /><div align="left"><span style="color:#333333;">Callie Grace started her last year of preschool. I can't believe my baby is four. She is already asking when she gets to ride the bus to the big school with her brother. She just started gymnastics and loves it, unlike last year when she screamed until they took her out. </span></div><br /><div><br /></div><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5381400329726983506" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZXEf8DpWHGTIdnAA8IxLoh4NtTf8ocqLn4up7GnBxR6A62V5mdsoJ39uNA-Wsx3HnM07PySGcl1hRJB3s-UX0i_wGe8LkeQR_K8I5zhJgNOviwzBHxOxWPYTV7CqCFh3AMgwvgSjUA-k6/s400/000_0055.jpg" /><br />One day it will be Mommy's turn to go back to school. I will make sure Dave takes a picture of me with my backpack. Until then, I will make sure the lunches are packed and the boots tied tight.<br /><div align="center"></div></div></div>Dave, Catherine, Chandler, and Calliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17212261778721676393noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1419067581281348761.post-57935522720790226692009-07-17T12:13:00.004-05:002009-07-17T12:30:59.520-05:00Wicked was Wicked Awesome<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5xuHQFDQXUexu3-wQXE_zNP1Qv1g-uY0SV0E6dAGBtCum9FxqD9PSBdfBbfJE1Rk7N0O_H9C-ZTcryN8-PMoUQ2_vc_qcXCkvhyphenhyphengP7NnWF7socrbx5kRLKN_AaSAX1QD710ANWjPtsqV1/s1600-h/wicked0606%5B1%5D.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5359480990215017586" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 362px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5xuHQFDQXUexu3-wQXE_zNP1Qv1g-uY0SV0E6dAGBtCum9FxqD9PSBdfBbfJE1Rk7N0O_H9C-ZTcryN8-PMoUQ2_vc_qcXCkvhyphenhyphengP7NnWF7socrbx5kRLKN_AaSAX1QD710ANWjPtsqV1/s400/wicked0606%5B1%5D.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div> <div><div><div>For about a year my friend Joleen has been talking about going to see Wicked. She arranged for group tickets, for about half off the regular price. My Mom took Christine and I. It was amazing!!</div></div><br /><div>Seriously, once it started, I was all, "What is this Feeling?" No wonder this play is so "Popular"!</div><br /><div>It totally "Defy's Gravity". No mourning for this Wicked! And I'm done with the puns. </div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Our Mother/Daughter Date. This was taken at the Orpheum, even though you can't tell. I wanted a picture out front with the marquee, but everyone was in too big a hurry to get inside.</div><div> </div><div> </div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5359479218889345506" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJ6n8V3Lx0NRLkTycZLMMKJI-W9BJkX86ydCZ8F_NG5ADKDodffsXd73Dg6fnM8Yp-HGeTibj-obhIwlnIAlYMTNaiQ1Ud0clIcaDDmFb2OCXEjHKTLnWk8X7F9SMo9_lZBRdbap9mwUt7/s400/summer+014.jpg" border="0" /><br /><div></div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Of course, the BFF's came too, aka the Sisterhood</div><div></div><div> </div><div><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5359479238547706178" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1oilylIFOuqOWC9SKiTwjI6NbNFsNJqCAS0L2WF1CQbbn6f6Qv_kbN26n_k2GKePu9CKJDWu44NTs8GCCJZvx_mlDmWVHo8ryZpWFlgt-P5hGhW_xxPnEGCbBD6QjyInuQ6l5q5pMjxsm/s400/summer+016.jpg" border="0" /><br />There were about 30 of us from the ward. It was wonderful to be together and enjoy this amazing experience. I have been listening the the soundtrack nonstop. At least until a few days ago , when Callie jammed her Hannah Montana CD in my CD player and now it says "NO CD", even though I know Wicked is still in there. Sigh. Dave will fix it soon and then "The Wizard and I" will be together again....<br /></div></div></div>Dave, Catherine, Chandler, and Calliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17212261778721676393noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1419067581281348761.post-42876763231058544222009-07-17T12:02:00.004-05:002009-07-17T12:12:51.630-05:00BEST DAD, HANDS DOWN!!<div><div><br />The Saturday before Father's Day, I went to Schnucks to pick up a few things. They were advertising an opportunity for kids to paint Father's Day shirts. There would be face painting and even Chester Cheetah was making an appearance. Sounded like fun to me. We grabbed the Georges and headed over.</div><div> </div><div></div><div>Callie got a flower on her face. Chandler got a shark. They each stamped their hands on their Daddy's shirt.</div><div> </div><div></div><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5359475868912073826" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJnlvkUBJG0mnef7HMD2hN5sDMvGfC25Y3Ed99SFWh07rSAz5M9U3oR-3ianA406WG9Uin3P_uDqT8tdXjfW0dq_eivDc-aS-0rUs2XemGrCPud4QxiPYUqIQ2OkpVWyU3-dE-5uHxdV-N/s400/summer+009.jpg" border="0" /></div><div><br />Of course, Ethan was the only one brave enough to get his picture with Chester Cheetah. Can I admit I'm kinda scared of him too?</div><div><br /></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5359475873720237810" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwoQcXPIBC98ih32rlOeOm3qt-_9u1MoVS-DchAHIy8aOhhTRj0VZEoyA7M6VfHyUqUz8dvRy8u2JdP4A861mNzym_JmO3wDygerPyOmT_SHSk7hKYNCVUwn6cQJmN5PSvDArV66N9vy8M/s400/summer+010.jpg" border="0" /> On Sunday morning, I realized I didn't have a gift bag. No problem. Dave came down the stairs to this:</div><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5359475883039571858" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKms17Sf2N0UGOq4wORTzz8MFcu1alJel9w70yR6PZ8iJSFe4w2ae4tna1hCihbC4XvxkudcBcigUV8SWfSofSCcO59ieQJ81NGItUnoMJCdb2NgxARx24xzayM1C7JkWoe6VGHyU8cHTo/s400/summer+011.jpg" border="0" /></div><div><br /><div>Hope all the Dads had a great day!</div></div>Dave, Catherine, Chandler, and Calliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17212261778721676393noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1419067581281348761.post-56152539718528879852009-07-17T11:38:00.004-05:002009-07-17T12:01:38.706-05:00HotlantaDoes anybody know why people call Atlanta that? Anyway, back in June, Dave and I escaped for an "alone" weekend. The kids went to stay with Dave's family. It was a heavenly trip with dinner at Ruth Chris, shopping, Six Flags, and a session at the Atlanta temple. It's nice to miss your kids every once and a while, right?<br /><br />I don't think I've been to a Six Flags in 10 years. They had something like 12 roller coasters. It was awesome. Here's our favorite, Goliath.<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5359470536657694994" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjy_5Ie5yi1NxrDJ_e32cLyRtXdlNEpKtodlkGxpUO24W5T3t_Qn2jHGJnEI7JDsz2kNqwOYApk_lQalb_Fm_uqYqxKVcSXK2Mn205d_kzvrjcTIieabJ2y89HSm3VuKIilhkosfqQbr5nD/s400/summer+008.jpg" border="0" /><br /><br />Remember the Sky Ride at Disneyland? They had one like it at Six Flags, except these were called the "Sky Bucket." So of course, I made the universal sign for bucket.<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5359470524772811426" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg21oKO2XwC8CeJX9VdnMzjew_SLsa4jdL-hARi0WybrAHPl4cCV_RPi86vHSwQ6cuU0Npb3RzDdqX7CsUokeBd-tQ910DlU9FNgh_OX60pBtDOEATnIOFBRgol8xYFB9zowBq5c0O0eaqj/s400/summer+007.jpg" border="0" /><br /><br /><br />We might be a little hot and sweaty.<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5359470520709222722" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaNDq3NoIGJS4sM3BylOzI1qsGBmuK4FquF_YB6N5oH44SzCHzcLrqvaha2l0s82pU3FDrZjy-1jBn-HGTn3qhKG8wAFOXHeuHF-FW2Z4cO30pyqMFsMWLIDF1nANjknnfnO2twRUPQ17W/s400/summer+006.jpg" border="0" /><br /><br />Ruth Chris. It was soooo good. Dave was all about the steak. I was all about the creme brule.<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5359470511080813298" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCOnlhCcaey2iddSz1nxZk1_fd2kryswpMz2SrluRCUm46tursXSbCr2n0WN1ujIXXE7w60dfbAL_3mBvkHxv1AMX9KAhNEsHC9SGN-2lU-IShCIv0ldSn4060jYnK9IkGscHYOdk0PQaG/s400/summer+005.jpg" border="0" /><br /><br />I think we may have to make this an annual trip. Or monthly. Maybe this weekend....Dave, Catherine, Chandler, and Calliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17212261778721676393noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1419067581281348761.post-77522070792346995172009-07-17T11:03:00.005-05:002009-07-17T11:37:25.411-05:00Summer Days<div><div><div><div><div><div><div><div>Summer sure is flying by. We've been keeping busy, mostly in the water. We kicked off summer with a trip to Mud Island.</div><br /><div><br /><br />Wait, are anybody's eyes open?</div><br /><div><br /></div><br /><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5359461365525676914" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjG60NIWQRxGraeAokg5AeUQ-IXjHrn5y2rPp9EwfIwmGe5m8i52Y78WIjyAj67MIDIcbDrRlviXcbc2xRWeyZHUtASQmNvf-3L9e14KDr6SyFDTSIHQL6sdbTJJsyjCiJ2az1XrsgaBVRx/s400/summer+001.jpg" border="0" /></div><div><br />Bathing Beauties</div><br /><div><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5359461371965702290" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnUGhyphenhyphenidgovBqslnXeEzeM4535rkRx2X0pVsW-g7ugW10p02M5CdTcU-zINEavdE6YrzGC-af0XnElKN2M1-4Cr420InBqdxnWY95L5NkI3jCudsxp8RZ2j_4RxFj43t_VASRwl5RHbqs5/s400/summer+003.jpg" border="0" /></div><div> </div><br /><div>Chan is very excited to be at Mud Island</div><br /><div></div><br /><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5359461378586818754" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3jHy9EEvUN_WlI_nmOo0Ztigoy5cn8FbRdO6pxhf7W-eCNSB0VBxmt1TCgswbxb6eLfBEH2f5AtL-1CkFHF68Lvoan_gecwExP_SA4DJw0N8G7kO-XeSwbEZxMhejY1gpc57GSnpb3Dzi/s400/summer+004.jpg" border="0" /></div><div><br /><br />Summer also brings swimming lessons with Grandma. This year Grandma decided that Callie and Morgan would take lessons in both sessions. The first session was repeat of last year, mainly a whole lot of screaming, crying, and shaking on the steps. But somewhere towards the end, Callie decided she could do it. She now LOVES to swim. We can't get her out of the pool. She can jump off the diving board and swim to the side. (which she does about 50 times every time we take her swimming.) She can swim the length of the pool. She even likes to float.</div><br /><div><br /></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5359461381768961602" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6QIFcO752LpgYaYmQhkptLmtFF0Ab3XWU6p2xvFKIRlYGym5THG_GvF-7u18_A2NNvQ40zynPJcBWo3khECicpjcseGastlpFs57S2EqVl6t6Ezm0Erfge-T7b0u5YgqwPQQi_eYX4vlC/s400/summer+018.jpg" border="0" /></div><br /><div></div><br /><div>It's truly miraculous. My Mom and I just keep looking at each other and asking, "Who is this child?" </div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Callie and her class</div><br /><div></div><br /><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5359461391049706722" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrApBlI7MSdocNe1vhRDWw3L3M-A39LMpPSyM7pI6V7zTLXr3cRK7Cs3QkcFESzS-8lkm_exBjs-t9xylqFEZYlGk28H-MwIzVXVBW_KQIt89rR4LJ1PdS4sGisjb1x6pSZHPS79LGlW7L/s400/summer+020.jpg" border="0" /><br /><br /><div>Chandler didn't quite understand why he needed swimming lessons, since he's already a good swimmer. He did learn some new strokes, including the butterfly. And, no, he's not skinny.</div><br /><div></div><br /><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5359462673289865170" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKaI-MsI15Vp7Yf9ksRoDL00kYTv20kfy6p3ja18OfB52vxRw_t99E4zQuDonllk_pUv8-ctxv26qyiyuQufDr9NyoTAjypIkqNYCtmvBq5cVPncBHLIddwZPtQZkUqZcijgrL_7T6W2OY/s400/summer+023.jpg" border="0" /></div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Some of the dads were so excited about swimming lesson graduation that they came in matching outfits. Aren't they supportive? </div><br /><div></div><br /><div></div><br /><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5359462677931624242" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbuxJWJyxjwOnU7vDDAM1sg2phXFFrh2vANFxMhHnXbF9X8aa8K2Rop20yI2P0vO6-ZRvaI0QGaRkCUT_F9rGQTGLUtIH61_wItzPZHfyJTvmcDYeBLf6EfqENDgJRx8XXETT1hoPYAkkx/s400/summer+024.jpg" border="0" /></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div><br /><br /><p>Last weekend found us back at Mud Island. We better enjoy it why we can. School starts in 3 weeks!</p><br /><p><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5359462679727452834" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYb1r-S1GB4rk9fh1hxhf5zvHDqSr5dhQOnV641c47LP1_f8a336u0vgZYdho5Bprc8cFrS-5vbmCGbuRBG1azLPvex3JXMiggjzvVGBk8lr7rgNiUSaFtoQA9wc6VbhFydb4bttvdeCMB/s400/summer+026.jpg" border="0" /></p>Dave, Catherine, Chandler, and Calliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17212261778721676393noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1419067581281348761.post-11094008630067335802009-07-05T22:04:00.008-05:002009-07-05T23:29:28.883-05:00The GraduateIf any of you were hoping this post referred to David, Sorry. No such luck. That would be next May. I'm sure it will be here before we know it, as this year has flown by. Chandler is a kindergarten graduate. It seems like just yesterday I was blubbering over my <a href="http://daveandcat.blogspot.com/2008/08/kindergarten-eve.html">"Night Before Kindergarten" post</a> and here he is, already done. It was a year of learning, for both Chandler and his parents.<br /><br /><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 312px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5355187604509161090" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4cJJHg9JVZZV1D_0xzcJggvqzhjgJzlC4qr8MyFtP1X1NvPWyAGo_LwDnl7M6tQn3fhDKqFL-XAzRjOJqY1nVqtNqdZimujXEu1Wvxj8Wtk-t5nvhJDpdF-zuZl00KEOo0hNQlUEJ5KUy/s400/chan%5B1%5D.jpg" /><br /><br /><br />The graduation itself was quite the event. Unfortunately, it was held in the un-airconditioned gym. Boy, was it hot! The kids were really cute and sang lots of fun songs they have been learning all year. Chan will still occasionally bust out in "There's a Little Wheel Turning in My Heart." My favorite was the song "First Grade, First Grade", set to the tune of "New York, New York." (Start spreading the news, we're leaving today. We want to be a part of it, First Grade, First Grade!)<br /><br />We've been spotted! His hat might be a little big...<br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEig70D48ZLP1x-IDJThDfcJYx8t8_g7KzLz4JxRLv_COIG0SmQ7GM26TxsLfFhmfapgqnxuyNyxk6n1VoOKblJkbSVH-oM-ON8_sLq3vnYDfom3A7slKhhPjXLn6LcYK-YpFV8FzjPEN6QZ/s1600-h/chansmile.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 268px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5355187597109025282" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEig70D48ZLP1x-IDJThDfcJYx8t8_g7KzLz4JxRLv_COIG0SmQ7GM26TxsLfFhmfapgqnxuyNyxk6n1VoOKblJkbSVH-oM-ON8_sLq3vnYDfom3A7slKhhPjXLn6LcYK-YpFV8FzjPEN6QZ/s400/chansmile.jpg" /></a> </div><div><br />Receiving his dipolma from Principal Carilse. How about Dr. Carilse has been the principal at Riverdale for 26 years? Chandler's teacher actually went to Riverdale and he was HER principal!</div><div></div><div></div><div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgucHjbftpkU3PKfxM2HQa_Sq0l_2ck0iFSZqsvFTtgL05SB88WdyrGqGPEk8UJpRCClc6C15nhlzi2IIN-Ag8Tg5dABnOjPZ0ZkYqA4MbvPos4xR6LX3LKGitGkpIIGTaBBViIgfGCFshp/s1600-h/chancert.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 268px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5355187596211163794" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgucHjbftpkU3PKfxM2HQa_Sq0l_2ck0iFSZqsvFTtgL05SB88WdyrGqGPEk8UJpRCClc6C15nhlzi2IIN-Ag8Tg5dABnOjPZ0ZkYqA4MbvPos4xR6LX3LKGitGkpIIGTaBBViIgfGCFshp/s400/chancert.jpg" /></a> </div><div></div><div></div><div>Chandler and his teacher, Mrs. Moske. He loved her!! She knew all about Star Wars, Transformers, and Inspector Gadget. (Along with, of course, reading, writing, and arithmetic.)</div><div><br /><br /><br /><div align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKB6U9QthojjtDQOl07PrqO0oHTVwExx9NyXDF_CB3mbcXwukj52ys9B6Y4_XRT4ViOo4HdLuR21rQkNM4xqNLoow2yhyphenhyphenAxo0EwpdUI2j2P3yvP3hii7L_TP6gTIk7Mez2vwk6xFsj5rKt/s1600-h/chanmoske.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 268px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5355187589490930834" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKB6U9QthojjtDQOl07PrqO0oHTVwExx9NyXDF_CB3mbcXwukj52ys9B6Y4_XRT4ViOo4HdLuR21rQkNM4xqNLoow2yhyphenhyphenAxo0EwpdUI2j2P3yvP3hii7L_TP6gTIk7Mez2vwk6xFsj5rKt/s400/chanmoske.jpg" /></a><br />"So now we've made it there,</div><div align="center">We'll make it anywhere!</div><div align="center">We're on our way,</div><div align="center">FIRST GRADE, FIRST GRADE!!"<br /><br /></div><div></div></div></div>Dave, Catherine, Chandler, and Calliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17212261778721676393noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1419067581281348761.post-24480827484435075252009-05-08T14:09:00.003-05:002009-05-08T14:25:52.812-05:00The Messiest Child Ever??<div> Does anybody want to be in our contest for the messiest child ever? I didn't think so. There's no beating Callie Grace. Her Dad has been calling her this since she first started eating solid food. Her messiness does only relate to food. She doesn't destory with toys and such the way she can with a good meal. I like to tease her that it will be very embarrassing for her to have to take a sippy cup on her first date. In the past few weeks, she has been healing from her tonsil surgery. This involved halfway eaten melting popcicles all over the house- including her bed, the bathroom, and the living room. Also she has spilled yogurt and hidden dried out jello on the carpet. Is she allowed to eat out of the kitchen? No. Does this stop her? No again. She is feeling better, so this week, she squeezed out an entire caprisun in my car, dumped a family size bag of Cheetos out on the living room rug, and decided to fill her spaghettio bowl up with water from the fridge door. Water downed tomato sauce everywhere!! This morning I gave her breakfast and went upstairs. I came back down to find this.</div><div><br /> </div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5333536146059105682" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPCvwMUaJQUJzA5ZR2SkDAEjODhCimOn8F54G5UBzlz0Pz8wB9rZvpxwT3JNNoMnxu8rLFyCoWYTZL7E9siGZaQQ4xMXdIYqYk8Gms3oRwW421dIixrBB4C88iyuRpwzsXVOgqpSjPIH9W/s400/3d1baefb56b5__1241760966000%5B1%5D.jpg" border="0" /> <div></div><br /><br /><div>She had pulled a little chair over to the counter and gotten down the powdered sugar canister. Then proceeded to dump it out and eat it with a spoon. I was flabbergasted. The entire kitchen is covered in a thin glaze.</div><br /><div></div><br /><br /><div></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5333536148328965058" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnMhZ7SVUuxLLbg_0YrxQSwIse4rlTS2yHUEjQbirzTP8mF-TTLwuK55cu1jV9ZtSoRkS37Dq6vk2M27qa0cHdiPuixaFFH6IeCvk1aiPVOzcEtGL7Iy3XUUSkfHe7kE3jCEJzrIGUVRBH/s400/callie.jpg" border="0" /><br /><div></div><div>Good thing she cleans up so nice. We love our messiest child ever. She'll eventually grow out of this, right??</div><br /><div></div><div></div>Dave, Catherine, Chandler, and Calliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17212261778721676393noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1419067581281348761.post-79252963336557579502009-04-23T14:01:00.005-05:002009-04-23T14:29:46.811-05:00A Finger, A Foot, and some TonsilsThe past few weeks has our family thankful for the miracles of modern medicine. And health insurance. And priesthood blessings. And good friends and family who watch kids, cook meals, and call just to see if we need anything. We love you all.<br /><br /><br />David started it all. He was sitting on a tug at FedEx. Another weary employee ran his tug into David's. It hit the front wheel and spun Dave's steering wheel. Dave tried to get his hand out of the way, but was not quick enough to avoid the impact on his pinky. It almost took it clean off. His bone was severed. After some workers compenstation red tape, he got to see an orthopedic doctor after 5 days. I was not happy. Anyway, turns out there isn't much you can do for a broken finger. Just wear this awesome splint. He was just recently taken off "light duty" at work.<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5327964205088595618" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8vLyKR-NoCQx9ezt2uUPIYfoezgf3ALjKqmoajXfhY-RguOaa0dk7XrMiqbve7UUCzhu7h4cXkq1rjvuYeGBuHTDquVfq2RK0ZXje6pni5gO7penSBm-fCBbBAOvH7DieCQJVxszzk7zb/s400/0f493bc7e9a2__1240484080000.jpg" border="0" /><br /><br /><br />A few weeks later I had surgery on my foot. Dave informs me that I am worse than average at the crutches. I was glad to send them packing. My arms were hurting worse than my foot. I am now getting around pretty good. It still hurts, but I anticipate that it will for a while. I also get to wear this sweet shoe for 4 weeks. It goes with everything. Wish I had two. (not)<br /><br /><br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5327964208785576034" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg075rprImh3kE6itZhzZBdXvfP3Zum3mvWkXzMRGaPYZq5Ic6Jz0Oi6U4k8Inhs8xPGWFgTbMudzZR3SXxvgnoK-cNLvtzlXSohF0ygJe5y9KiQeBZinjweuAjXucTtGdLR_aciN97AIZo/s400/b6630d134ee9__1240484024000.jpg" border="0" /><br /><br />Good thing I am walking again, since Callie had surgery herself this morning. For some reason her tonsils decided to grow as big as golf balls. She was having trouble sleeping and swallowing, so they had to come out asap. We went in to see the doctor again Tuesday and he scheduled the surgery for Thursday. Callie was such a trooper. It turns out Daisy needed surgery too. Her tonsils were even bigger than Callie's. Daisy and Callie got matching surgical gowns and slippers. I hope I get to see this happy smile again sometime soon.<br /><br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5327964210421943266" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEje99Cy8hO0YGEQYQmQr789k0Xa91MedVuu-X_lqvpCHoGdipXcvBrrkqcJ-BN5qS78r4TKyl-JX6vhVU-sdo5uvi-evF21qT64bH9mr4VjTj-4nagzFwMYkRyimRcn0c3u-46e9y6vDKB6/s400/ab3201fb213d__1240464617000.jpg" border="0" /><br /><br />The surgery was really quick. Callie was NOT a happy girl in the recovery room. I could hear her sobbing, "I want my mommy!" as I walked down the hall. Once she was in my lap, she went right to sleep. It's hard to take a picture of someone in your lap, in case you were wondering.<br /><br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5327964212880680114" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiA1q0HVYM0Sr5iEn_NWM5DD02wVspwMY_7Snv01WhFWSnOb69zQHFaGZ6lfgdCuFE-L3vIytYP3UqEdGKDJ4Cs2wRkrHyQLCt9ZSo_wEabgQrWYP4Q7hMnGHOdkRhrzhn2wkMtTp0LAS6N/s400/a9717edb5290__1240468191000.jpg" border="0" /><br /><br />The children's hospital here has a special toy room called the "bunny room", where the kids pick out a toy on the way to surgery. Callie picked out a baby doll. I don't know how well you can see, but Callie had a purple bandage on her arm where her IV was. When she came back from surgery, both Daisy and her new baby doll had a purple bandage on their arms too. It almost made me laugh out loud as I rocked my sad, sick little girl.<br /><br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5327964216442385058" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnJ3dUzPYoOKWPbbJNVY0901-IOitB5FTfIJF7VA4THZJMDsTMJAEXtwiJmp6DoRpRm_yrE5ekFHK0MsLDI5g9m_7UXrkV_wbmW_SRX3Zp2XHrapwVCXUxjhnXT_cj9s_DHT7yoID5XSOj/s400/a8f4515d1f58__1240468262000.jpg" border="0" /><br /><br />We're home now and Callie is sleeping. She wanted to stop at Chick-fil-a on the way home and get chicken and fries. I told her she would have to make do with a popcicle. She ate a whole one and then went to sleep on the couch. Hopefully her recovery will be speedy. And I pronounce our family done with doctors, hospitals, and anesthesia for a while. We can hope.Dave, Catherine, Chandler, and Calliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17212261778721676393noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1419067581281348761.post-38992864020592974992009-04-21T18:01:00.005-05:002009-04-21T18:53:52.267-05:00Happy Easter!<div><div><div><div><div><div><div><div><div>We had a great Easter. even though I am sad to say I am without a picture of my kids in their Easter clothes. We will have to reinact it in a few Sundays. </div><div> </div><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5327293903242932962" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5qm3qd2lSv9LxsBpDYfe8XRclWcpVxjwtFxZuDc7JMxHUNW8rCbY06ld84pGc22OvwRu9QC6_asIPe49b9CUDKyOwvXPku2HJtIUtBBFevMJUwCsWi9JvpYzvs_hpe5AAgGTfOq62aSef/s400/easter+010.jpg" border="0" /><br /><div></div><br /><div></div><br /><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5327289549573494674" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJvOXrNkUUL2WQ64ctKug0MzNFKWPZC577qyVes56IR0NAjQ2SdrpDiyIyqrZ0QifmM5MNgm68PwRWMDL6j5G4sj9MYODPgoKYwQnohOPi4Bm2oDl9_GVW_PIRHvOF4E5_dSnzxejgFGmF/s400/easter+011.jpg" border="0" /></div><br /><div></div><br /><div></div><br /><div>We spent Good Friday with Dave's parents and sister. It was originally just supposed to be me and the kids, but Dave broke his finger at FedEx and was given some time off to come with us. I had the bright idea that everyone should meet up in Murfreesboro for lunch. I had no idea a tornado was planning on joining us. We had lunch at Mellow Mushroom Pizza. It was a really neat place, we were actually seated in a bus. Anyway, there are no pictures, as it began hailing as soon as Dave went to to car to get the camera. The skies turned black and it was scary for a while. I was hoping to power lasted long enough to cook our pizza! Anyway, it eventually blew over and we headed to McMinnville. I don't think we knew how bad it was at the time. The tornadoes made national news and had two fatalities. Very sad.</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>The day turned nice enought to spend some time in Ma and Pa's backyard. Callie loves the horses!<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5327289531017376610" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZzFkNNYbw3KhEjQEZY_8wj5wRZP5Q9FWOIK8wMHYulMlyqkl0x7bRkli1q6-TE5eZYBgSM35ppqTXSV-RsADVl4N3dZIV7Q0Fwk6sbL61zCQbu6ObsfgAg3493JzADc9rzI11SFBWHopW/s400/easter+004.jpg" border="0" /><br /><br /><br /></div><br /><div>Chandler on the swing set.</div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5327286512456704338" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhOx0ZIh_YqbRIxHWje5t_Cpz3eLGKoEkWCOH1WzXmJ_ySweE-Jk6gp4bJtVkMU5Dm_dF5zSXmTEVASx66Ax_CBYEJNaBITaaVx1PGizqfV46C27vLnvf4yttEs88JHWgsdGg_NScuvVV1/s400/easter+005.jpg" border="0" /><br /><div></div><div></div><br /><div>The kids opening their Easter Baskets. </div><br /><br /><div>If you have spoken with Callie in the past month since we have been back from our Disney Cruise, you know all about her obessison with Daisy Duck. It's all she can talk about. Vernoica ordered her a stuffed Daisy and she is rarely without it. I'll have to hold Daisy when Callie is getting dressed, eating, etc. and she will remind me not to keep her. </div><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5327286505284429986" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhp72enRERbDg1W4CF1DdpioJpMg7CT_atUL8L_CJ9qILYJEEXg3Gpw4Ahyphenhyphen-DebT1iR2zx9a-s8QH15x-VEMRsm3-ivHqL2iDSHu5Fs2ipFM3ORZka0H03iwI2SEFOgTmcxw6PB1s1UMa5L/s400/easter+001.jpg" border="0" /><br /><br />Chandler got some Bendaroos, a really net building set.<br /><br /><br /><br /><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5327286505514348754" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCKoFxviV5TS92bT9iQih8whaTy-IMvhyphenhyphenG_Vj3caPT8yvXB2JgJU300lIFX0rk4KJfnkqsdTUDTPh6iC2NsuYP9P8-_Q3RoPxz8GtAMoVhCNEnOQ222Dfy7InMy7M6u4gvJ8qSFO4GxQSX/s400/easter+003.jpg" border="0" /><br />On Saturday, we went back to Murfreesboro to a really neat Children's Museum. The kids had a great time.</div></div></div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Callie found some wings and flitted all over the place. I may have joined her, but I'm not posting the picture. Or video.</div><br /><br /><div></div><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5327289537754118002" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQuexwnmUusdjN49NSVixR_TO-X351wKTYFOlgv5JqYvWokq9lsIxAgZZswFFvTsDYeWRmSURcfyxy9J7tz0fAnSgIhjLeZAvPfAuc9LKReyn7YmnEt77KdMULw5Ozr_NpmWWja7j_rKKv/s400/easter+009.jpg" border="0" /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><div>Chandler building a car.</div><br /><br /><div></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5327289534754454898" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU9lJcZb7UZB6meDLfJnlohLc1agOwf8Vpe2a5dEbY8AHBShjM-lVaUhKT0M_4D1YB0PLHq1WvXRTAXEise7hDcD4kQSMCQpMECiJTbYyMzJCUPcba08Hz70Z1RuOgTn_jEXatDZsWJw3A/s400/easter+008.jpg" border="0" /><br /><div></div><br /><div>Callie even got a story in Pa's lap.</div><br /><div></div><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5327286514735769106" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhparj8fOGZejqnOMZhf30f-NvDWp9wNj-9Kn0RBkQAHTHCw_V-D0ntEgxNMQuUDwpLE5pajQvDjSip2YLprQ0UOEH7oZGoCtOcsLzKEbB-wSQnulIL3-2pUF4DZvhcD3MntNBW587xdL-I/s400/easter+006.jpg" border="0" /> <div></div><br /><div>On the long drive back, away from distractions of every day life, we were able to pull out the scriptures and have a meaningful discussion on the last week of the Savior's mortal life and the true meaning of Easter. Chandler was almost tearful as we discussed what Jesus went through for each of us. He then asked what in the world the Easter Bunny and eggs and candy had to do with Jesus dying for us and then being resurrected on the third day. I really didn't have an answer for him. I tried to explain that the egg hunts and toys and candy were fun, but not the real meaning of easter. Just like getting presents and Santa Claus is not the real meaning of Christmas. We discussed how we needed to remember the Savior and his sacrifice every day, not just on Easter. I saw the light in their eyes as they talked about Jesus and his love for them. It was choice experience, one I will not be forgetting soon. </div><div> </div><div>Hope you all had a Happy Easter!</div><div> </div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div>Dave, Catherine, Chandler, and Calliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17212261778721676393noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1419067581281348761.post-62720723041578914842009-04-03T19:21:00.008-05:002009-04-03T20:22:00.363-05:00Disney Cruise<div><div><div><div><div><div><div><div><div><div><div><div><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiku0E_oxl8wc4zamzBTqSKJAcrJlse_goFi3Tv4R4L8hEt9jigqyE5fjV_R2hzuBNdWMB8xWI0XIBFcWlrKu4lUd-RwVCmwyzOys4O0C8mBgnw_qquiN_P6xkTX8NvQXaMsErr36IW85ry/s1600-h/kids+boat.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5320628900810526674" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 288px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 384px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiku0E_oxl8wc4zamzBTqSKJAcrJlse_goFi3Tv4R4L8hEt9jigqyE5fjV_R2hzuBNdWMB8xWI0XIBFcWlrKu4lUd-RwVCmwyzOys4O0C8mBgnw_qquiN_P6xkTX8NvQXaMsErr36IW85ry/s400/kids+boat.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div><div><br /><div><div><div><div><div><div>We got a great deal on a 3 night Disney Cruise! The kids were even free. It was a blast! Callie is still talking about it. It did involve a 13 hour car ride to Port Canaveral Florida. But if you give them enough junk food, they'll eventually go to sleep. </div></div><br /><div></div><div></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5320633525277979666" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyS8ndCsMNGVMOtjbBVF21y1i9h_mDJoc820uYHBPwyfHqoDgYpT26GrkJqV5gXOcZgKkOsP3xQo2_gpcJ6kphUKeECiMZwPBURj9iGIQA7IyzOvXepjR8PDtOHiKmllYvjRL7-t7JcdvD/s400/sleep.jpg" border="0" /><br /><br /><div>We ran into Minnie in the terminal, waiting to get on the boat. Callie tried to run straight for her and skip the line.<br /></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5320628900226494866" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 268px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZzJ3ZPeqB2-6mJtIXg9Rn-u-HQTZR6Y_LOjANC9N_BK9mgsUpPkM46kRC4HytkH9fzV_G3ZKS1_DY4P9l3vrv2kcwE5akz2YQV3wZjUrFJp6VyiFgeIG_0TaMjyugYdeyHab1deXvLh4n/s400/fam+minnie.jpg" border="0" /><br /><br /><div>Shortly after we got on the boat, we had the mandatory boat drill. Glad we didn't have to use these!</div><br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5320628903924250546" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0qihezCMrIREvO4SguQgr0FQdAxreyUxXD6xf-mh4RMmGMJPzNI5jwB8g0xAKiRT-Eebu1NDojFl8pTGKst78oAk2nScRZEhQ9M1PTiBey5IeQ0j5HPCxzxfzLRtFxGbr7KxVAOrr5Tcc/s400/life+jackets.jpg" border="0" /><br /><br /><br /><div></div>The kids loved the Mickey Pool! Chandler was all about the water slide. Callie was relieved you had to be 4 to go on it.</div><div> </div><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5320631927409581874" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnCj-Q29WDzv3p93SA6vRa15yaI2EfEtwk5M3-4L94Jy-N3zZgoHhG2ELlONkee_mHpd_d1BZh6mclCC0e11tczqcBtTqm5_tKDUkNQ3oJHg7GkzYczVTXuebJEmkCAG8zf8A9EZFB3G4u/s400/slide.jpg" border="0" /></div><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5320626358129949922" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 288px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 384px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhI7jDpLKCQPR5YeblpCPYMu5sjqNRPGPXj1HEnkFWo3aSJ0VFJHgZGpCvAITSRZsM6pPcffXmmE4QVFCULmV6tAx-tNqeaQ6E5VpbxN6hyphenhyphenjVfgk7PQ-bLLgy-Nmwo_Tt_pFt54kYJ0nMs9/s400/chan+slide.jpg" border="0" /></div><div>Chandler has a little waterproof camera. The resolution isn't great, but it takes some fun pictures.<br /><br /></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5320631926467729938" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3e_pf9TQ_Nti8XVIoG-AW_TEF94G1X5WKQqnBPVATNhHKyturVCKuO4cyaCY3kGY4RwezEh2UxGOFadYkVKiTM7C7bycf2ydj1o-qCf19MyPmMFDYsmsuMJ4EGK5OfQSxoL8PTNhJnsZd/s400/pool.jpg" border="0" /><br /><br /><div></div><div></div><br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5320632753427973666" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiI8kort8yKEX-JMDpifRuxMKFVhatZvD3r4i2OzlJgzk1ICJx_JUsgGHS5kRRgqAucCfjsV-yqbAhEsH-RTzdWR1CQAFf9MJIfU1uVcuOxR5-4YxQ30P0CJfh1U-e9LtQ7NjBYptuia10_/s400/chan+pool.jpg" border="0" /><br />Proof that Callie can put her face in</div><div><br /></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5320632747912929714" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh99rBx99lDl3ABvIDj1xQvZRKorLZ4RoUKFKSIdg7jhd5RfAEkc3FGJiXcb8zlFilQTioriXoawuUx5CWXQ92muFgeHSg772aONXn_rbWxCuCD48tPQS-a4BL0-RJeiu_lm5vKxFliZGwX/s400/callie+under.jpg" border="0" /><br /><br />We went to Atlantis Aquarium in Nassua. Chandler loved it and couldn't stop asking our tour guide questions about the marine life.</div><div> </div><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5320628896998564882" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 268px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP2UI6FjRte3R6cQDtb27Up01Ou7ub_F-V6o2Rs84vjMV_1NgXlrjYgQikBcCikvgQOxfaBaie35gRf9TWULK8sI1AdOdmHRXEHh4VkE0Qj_FNq2dxDGHD2FZN5ftwvDiRFVNyJyfwVAST/s400/fam+atlantis.jpg" border="0" /></div><div> </div><div> </div><div>Ask me if this was my favorite part. Especially since we were going to the beach the next day.<br /></div><div><br /><br /></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5320633530767749026" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 268px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiumms-kjK1YsLoWDRvPGmE8cWGRekZgUjgGBJiJIjbStDIfniYUew949kHEf0PR7Fr_1_jt0cw_TM0nM__3ewvZ9QHMVny-WcKEHiJsF2YTnvZKv1phKOgjg6HPZGSFuO0L5BSi9MLB_ED/s400/shark.jpg" border="0" /><br /><br />Castaway Cay- Disney's private island</div><div> </div><div><br /><br /></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5320626355228617986" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYZGbVu4amTIGFL5i73dE34BUqNzR4xQYQwIIFnWpU_AaxYEr71knE3AFWDwEJZOprLPXD2bUQuIbV6GknO-S3ZMc7zzJfUjslaf3gi2JFNKGg4pJfFJNOlmSouap7SeeLgOQoxM0Wox5o/s400/beach.jpg" border="0" /><br />It turned rainy and cold after this! So sad!<br /><br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5320626355101755890" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5CJwcuxppOpgZbEhMRT_DMFIjS8voIoaAr0WaSFHdOIAwi1JF-cnpXGfUE_JeLZgz0hyDD5CDiUsb8fMRs8ZlYpYS9u-zq6ZSF1pfBlXIK-g4T7jhjAYPi7v9cPuphvdTHnBt-jLSh_5o/s400/cat+beach.jpg" border="0" /><br /><br />They did have a cool store there though. Chandler especially liked the name, "The Chandlery".</div><div> </div><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5320626388852115202" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi64F46cIDgSDS3vE3pnslFZY_giBvNsY4scMmnAiS2UH7_elhnyaDVtoXcgSDwjoNxsUaC2PltNT5XF0Cs0BfUNRfOsRTJodElfGcnmNElB6IOpSJkabo8mmBxwGUG3dL_V3rHlGIYoKLc/s400/chandlery.jpg" border="0" /></div><div> </div><div>On the last night of the cruise, the kids' club had a pajama party.</div><div> </div><div>Callie got to meet Snow White.<br /><br /></div><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5320631933604696034" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6zHxI-HlWIlkFZG-A7AVhVLfanoDHO1ehUKjUXTuOx8MyOU_XDkTlDuLaVS5SoCve7Y28jjh3qi3PNX5C7oYkneqQgvNbKb50xiaIurZhv1d1bmCqLbH24Qz8zsZT9sXWPa-Yex_SGE3S/s400/snow+white.jpg" border="0" /></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div><br /><p> </p><p>Chandler got to meet Stitch.</p><p><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5320626379767078066" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEvixsY1KLubTGKS0x1l2f1snKxvPpN6JxxY6GQ10OUE__zZgSP2S7DxNMuJQXU9SvXEYKrwWqK02jHrA_eLCaffGW4qbkEttOdZ03Oo9vXdLJ-rJyRZZ4pjMkZUC7I_tPzMo2C87L_9jv/s400/chan+stich.jpg" border="0" /></p><p>Breakfast, right before we got off the boat.</p><p><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5320628894901925282" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 268px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZkFX1GWyZOQ_vkzpzuJim9l59md-Eo-ApMj-jD_GbDMZ8jAjIM-b3ls33S3HfWolorjYpNdTROBRkbsKp3qUTJtDBUPmch1Dtc8AJuLi3yupWRxAE8VbMRiFdWz4mT89UAcpFLMM24-Q5/s400/fam+breakfast.jpg" border="0" /></p><p>Disney was advertising the 7 day cruise onboard. Both kids asked when we were going. Maybe when Chandler is a famous marine biologist he can take us.</p>Dave, Catherine, Chandler, and Calliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17212261778721676393noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1419067581281348761.post-2883395753542069472009-04-03T18:48:00.006-05:002009-04-03T19:14:20.033-05:00March Madness<div><div><div><div>We've had some sporadic beautiful weather lately. The kids love to play outside!</div><br /><div></div><div></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5320621299021528722" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9ZUJplHVHItL48YRFlqCZAeEldlb548vu6ZizXH45PD7MxNmD6aQ9hisP68KvWlxuw4HVvDCt8qPZQcjgSFhScEC6KDC0xRdTdDe_SWIcrwttFRnuaXy_p2GFGE18W3J8OslyVfYVXE2Y/s400/chantree.jpg" border="0" /><br /><br /><div></div><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5320621295995206658" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi14gyuyLA7_gX1xEupVHV59vw2CXh7_O_FGha-jCwye-Dwwt-89sqjR_HeNYVft3XpcfNJWqOPB60abjJzz0QnFqAGv2jKtn6PyQ2KWxyq2_QnSEtF83DHt1mNezPR04zW4kJ7GC72oBlz/s400/calliebike.jpg" border="0" /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><div>The spring time breeze also blew in some visitors all the way from Colorado. We had a fun visit with two of our favorite people, Alicia and Naters! We took them to the zoo, of course. </div><br /><br />Callie and Morgan got to take turns bossing, um, showing Nathan around.<br /><br /><div></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5320621302598705538" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEie0qpXn4GYLI7qtIn957NsYtpI1whGCSjhB9nM7GBNaXvS9bkX-B2tRfb6MB7oTgzoc5YEUhmd97WCM-JPJU_-h6M7QGrHp1ep4ej-mPmg_oexf9t-tEUCQ8sFtkw8NVtsDKkxSg8Z_Cpj/s400/zoo2.jpg" border="0" /><br /><br /><br />You may notice our Tiger gear. This was the day of the Mizzou Sweet Sixteen game. Ugh!<br /><div></div><br /><br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5320621291296403746" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKDUqmltCFTKbmxrBaD_P0pcmf9rxTkCoGooXnArpShj-_KJpmN4wgYjNV3ym3H09hsbowWvqJgTW9BhckhgPaKwX-UJoep028TDjYfFXWjCOLqzVCogyto9FXC3MdHT9Fx9wVPk6vevqV/s400/zoo.jpg" border="0" /><br /><div></div><br />Is it time to open the pool yet?<br /><br /><br /><div></div></div></div></div>Dave, Catherine, Chandler, and Calliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17212261778721676393noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1419067581281348761.post-87895503964210510602009-04-03T18:22:00.003-05:002009-04-03T18:45:02.221-05:00Let it Snow!<div><div><div><div>Memphis is known more for its ice, than snow. But we got some freak snow storm the last Saturday in February. I remember the date, as it's the birthday of my dear friend, Sarah. We ventured out in the weather for some girl time!</div><br /><div></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5320613771677238610" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjP8GdY2cbgKPCg54Muv1vGarRrt256uI0guWG-81nW0isDB4m92S7A3vTHlpwXae_2y3Z23MmtSyqpEypYGwd_Qjvej4RigKFM-ugsYg741Jwzp3avApQZ8ehoX1STaCLhcYpGH7DjGOLg/s400/snow%5B2%5D.jpg" border="0" /><br /><div></div><div></div><br /><div>The paper said it was the most snow Memphis has seen in 40 years. Crazy.</div><br /><div></div><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5320613774063136610" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGeR7djFIGukGzhmIDwtT_0nNWmUywIYqWuqDLfU2chBuvJP1hGpJ5UjePI06Es3fIIZWUCF4v_VJdH0mteJKxTcCm8caGPvm98LrMq2wv9lYl5gbR76PTJdJuAuJPiPhsKGBFFfE3K-5v/s400/snow3.jpg" border="0" /><br /><div></div><div></div><div></div><br /><div>On Sunday, church was cancelled, so we had a fun family day, complete with Snow Cream and hot chocolate.</div><br /><br /><div></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5320613769081613730" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeBg18lsuBPDcufNhkhlD1sM3IayTJ6PWjx2syx4GyJrjJlnEJTmEziESUZISLivSev5mZxhyphenhyphen7EOno55D82mR_SaCxQwX8gJvz8N2be_cSGU0j_O42_0dQ3LQH5NPv9tX-OOUHn0FsAkZP/s400/snow2.jpg" border="0" /><br /><br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5320613762762820210" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWJTEe7HjMESjvgSEHlZLIJ5y-tPJ7eUSYcUTyaYTiWub86TJEnvmYFGX-595Dc8Fa3KTNzXLHNxWgsXSrpbd5pS1OBGPxpBk5jYnZnY6UOyS_Bx4ZIREPRlbPvPG-qL2bdpDRlmGXKkWc/s400/snow1.jpg" border="0" /> <div></div><br /><div> </div></div></div></div>Dave, Catherine, Chandler, and Calliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17212261778721676393noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1419067581281348761.post-7568466429507135032009-04-03T17:53:00.003-05:002009-04-03T18:21:31.431-05:00Happy Birthdays!<div><div><div><div><div><div></div><br /><div>Birthdays offer a great opportunity for me to consume way too much frosting as I spend way too much time and energy and money on something that is just going to get eaten. I love doing it though.</div><br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5320606794167488946" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4GQnDoJRBmF7otcd9LnELGzw4gjK2ejznScfR_ytqU91w_I3J78jGRlg_RxbgFtNnxuja5Sg9qhZNmI5G7rSerh1mjNW9kX3PscstKlG_OVU7QBwVP-7cwklp4xNwWemDU24J9Qqcd7_9/s400/volcano.jpg" border="0" /><br /><div></div><div>Chandler turned 6 in January! He needed a volcano cake to go with his dinosaur theme.</div><div></div><br /><br /><br /><div></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5320608807053412546" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4STHQRGK6aJRhIddtyffeBq0CXZdmc88e8CuDeEUdNPVk7s9CYqyWhJtNchr4H24Gz6H0Fhu4q_Kr0gsZZP83GWULoPG_Fr0R1Mn-1Ae_jNix6R2cVEf6vf3GRkeUigVSVmfPCkyRYOZO/s400/chan+volcano.jpg" border="0" /><br /><br /><div>He got a new bike! It's finally getting nice enough to ride it!</div><br /><div></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5320606784274495698" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxJu3tyZ8o8lwfh6gdKovErsWDxrv0ocATQlYEY0QRSehcK94xKB1TlwOhusqK1cqXT3vMxcg1dVswzyAdgX_B__45jyXaT2sEkfn6ASsWjf8bsd6VIWLs3fUr_4LQ62copSw7LKHk9p0P/s400/chan+bike.jpg" border="0" /><br /><br /><div></div><br /><div></div><br /><br /><div>Morgan's Butterly cake (Yes, those are frosted twinkies.)</div><br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5320606789493964834" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8bRlcTB3V5tJU4ykOKN7Li5MWvlriJ3ca3jsJk18Q6U7uVPdRu1parg45AzB4PZBmnS_4uu1E7YG9WmNZyPJ3pe0Yy0M07Q-zCxkI7CfCslKbqUN3AusQ7fkigxu_PxJgglY1DIuGaHyi/s400/butterfly+cake.jpg" border="0" /><br /><div></div><div></div><div>I am apparently very excited about turning 31. </div><br /><div></div><br /><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5320606797707640034" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMVRizV0pzLFilKcDpQ7gujqfXxYhJN_bFztLifFlC1dPHV5Pp_PwyD1kT4yjnB7w88r5si-WXtrSxh-S6cSmcVs3O-jJhG6uLOaaRou6ZdGAJAOpy3gy4-6AQnXXYmtEepudEvxPO4X5c/s400/cat+cake.jpg" border="0" /></div><br /><div></div></div></div></div></div></div>Dave, Catherine, Chandler, and Calliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17212261778721676393noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1419067581281348761.post-85264946850705304592009-04-03T17:44:00.002-05:002009-04-03T17:52:36.293-05:00A Return to Blogging<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUgu_CMH2xu-orJvqV0XtmWhLK1WfpQD06vSRz_DHWdKkM3_ek6FPuqX992vPCnIcn3ljeDFxHU-kxmp1nc6pi8PVuJypzeZp90TEs8RZZZH-b3FlDhP3Ksl4_7aIMsR_CvaUfkvjvsDqY/s1600-h/potd_pi-pie%5B1%5D.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5320601725550618978" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 330px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 333px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUgu_CMH2xu-orJvqV0XtmWhLK1WfpQD06vSRz_DHWdKkM3_ek6FPuqX992vPCnIcn3ljeDFxHU-kxmp1nc6pi8PVuJypzeZp90TEs8RZZZH-b3FlDhP3Ksl4_7aIMsR_CvaUfkvjvsDqY/s400/potd_pi-pie%5B1%5D.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div>Did you know that the act of blogging is directly proportional to the location of my camera? Or knowledge of the location of my camera? I guess LACK of knowledge of the location of my camera is more accurate. The good news, it has been found. Where, you ask? Underneath my nightstand, of course. The bad news, all of the pictures from the last few months are on OTHER people's cameras. I have managed to collect some. So enjoy! I won't promise to do better. That would be a piecrust promise ala' Mary Poppins. (easily made, easily broken). But I will TRY. Much love to all.</div>Dave, Catherine, Chandler, and Calliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17212261778721676393noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1419067581281348761.post-17916497812079658452009-02-19T22:36:00.002-06:002009-02-19T22:49:41.604-06:00This Blog Temporarily ClosedHave you ever been doing something routine, like doing the dishes, and had a completely random thought? Like, "Hey, I have a blog!" Oh yeah. I promise to get some pictures together and post something soon. In the meantime, here's 25 Random facts about me, recycled from Facebook:<br /><br />1. I cannot sleep when I have something on my mind. It's 11:15. I should be trying to wind down, but no. I have this 25 Random things list on my mind and can't rest until it's done!<br /><br />2. I met my husband, David, when we were both working at the Ridgeway Four Movie Theatre. We've don't get back there too often, but it will always be a special place for us. The smell of popcorn always takes me back....just kidding.<br /><br />3. I love the beach, but not getting in the water. I am terrified of sharks! I saw the movie Jaws when I was 10 and slept on my parents' floor for a week. I still do not like even getting in the swimming pool alone. He might be there, lurking in the deep end. Maybe I should get some therapy for this issue...<br /><br />4. My sister and I have the same recurring dream, often on the same night and often when we sleep in the same room together. (which hasn't happened in many years) We are little, like 6 and 8, and we're driving my Mom's old car, Goldy. I think I'm working the pedals and she's steering. Maybe it's a metaphor?<br /><br />5. I have two kids, Chandler(6) and Callie (3). Yes, we got Chandler's name from "Friends", but he is not named AFTER him. (Come to think of it, Gum would be perfection.) Chandler actually named his sister. After we found out we were having a girl, we were reading names aloud from one of those name books. Chandler, who was 2 at the time, latched on to the name "Callie" and chanted it for three hours. It stuck. I have miscarried 3 babies and our family doesn't feel complete yet. We are hoping the Lord will bless us with one more.<br /><br />6. I hate buffets. I try to avoid them at all costs. Any one time I surrender, I will be the one with hair in my food.<br /><br />7. When I was younger, I wanted to be a writer or an actress. I used to write all kinds of plays for my friends and I to act out. Then as an adult I developed a fear of public speaking. Isn't it ironic, don't ya think?<br /><br />8. Ever since I was a little, I have loved to read. I used to hide in my closet with a flashlight late at night, so my Mom wouldn't catch me. There was a time when I had drifted in the genre of mindless chick lit. A Book Club friend recommended a new author, Elizabeth Peters. She is amazing. Ever since then, I can't go back to pointless romantic drivel. (I am NOT including Twilight in this, as it most certainly does not meet the criteria.) Anyway, I love a good story, surprises, and of course, happy endings.<br /><br />9. I detest seafood. I have serious psychological issues with it. Maybe it has to do with the sharks. There was a time when Dave couldn't order it at a restaurant and expect to sit next to me. I have since learned to breathe through my mouth. So I guess worst possible food scenario for me would be a seafood buffet.<br /><br />10. I love to travel. I start to get itchy if I don't have some sort of trip planned. I only have one stamp in my Passport, which is about to expire. My Dad took my sister and I to Amsterdam many years ago. Langstraat is Dutch, in case you were wondering. Dave and I hope to go to Europe some day. And Hawaii. We have been on 3 cruises. We're taking our 4th in March, this time with kids. It will probably be a little different.<br /><br />11. I love roadtrips. I could drive forever. Calories from a gas station convenience store off some random exit don't count. We used to drive across country to Arizona when I was a kid/teenager. Once I got that learner permit my family would go to sleep and I would just keep driving and driving. Man, our blue Dodge van could fly!<br /><br />12. I started girls night out about a year ago with some good friends. I didn't even know a piece of me was missing until then. Don't worry, it's found now. It's nice to be with other women who "get" you. We always have a blast and I feel like I'm 16 again! And then I come home, hopefully a better, refreshed, mom and wife.<br /><br />13. I loathe laundry. It is never complete. Even if your hampers are empty, there is always the clothes you're wearing. I look forward to when the kids are old enough to do their own laundry. (and vacuum, and clean bathrooms, etc.)<br /><br />14. I haven't been on a bicycle in a very long time. (Rumor has it you never forget how.) When I was 15 I fell off and scraped off half my face. It was for real, one big scab. I want to start riding with my kids, so I am planning on getting a bike for my birthday. I am hoping to get back on that horse, uh, bike soon.<br /><br />15. I love to cook, but not clean up afterwards. And I usually make a big mess. In the past 2 weeks, I have made a volcano cake for Chandler and a butterfly cake for my niece, Morgan. I think there may be frosting on the ceiling.<br /><br />16. One thing I want to do before I die is.....be on a game show! How's that for a life's ambition? I'm not really sure which one. Too bad "Who Wants to be a Millionaire" isn't on anymore. Autumn, I saw you were on Family Feud and I am so jealous!<br /><br />17. I have a tatoo on my ankle. I regret it. If I had unlimited funds, it would be lasered off. Maybe one day. I got it shortly after I turned 18, just because I could. I guess it's a permanent scar of my wild and crazy days.<br /><br />18. I have been in the real estate closing industry for 12 years, since I was 18. Yikes! It started out as a part time job during college and somehow turned into a career. It's less of one now that I'm back to part time. But I've learned lots of interesting things. When Dave and I were buying our house, the loan officer and I were talking about our mortgage. When we got out, Dave said, "It's like you were speaking another language in there!" I guess the home buying/selling will always fall under my side of the relationship.<br /><br />19. I think most of you know that I am a Mormon or a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. Faith and family are the two most important things in my life. Yes, we are Christians and No, we're not a cult. If you have any questions, feel free to ask!<br /><br />20. I have a squemish stomach. It has gotten better with motherhood, but I still cannot stand the sight of blood! My Mom was hoping I would be a nurse like her. No chance.<br /><br />21. I am a huge University of Memphis Tiger Basketball fan. Last year's national championship game was heart breaking. I'm hoping will get that title some year soon! My Dad has 6 season tickets, so we get to go to some games. The kids are big fans too. Callie mainly likes to wear her cheerleader outfit, while Chandler wants to know when we're getting the barbeque nachos. Sigh.<br /><br />22. Dave and I have moved 8 times during our marriage, all within the Memphis area. We're back in my hometown now, Germantown, and will probably be here for a while. At least until he decides where he's getting his doctorate. I'm thinking University of Memphis. (How about them tigers?)<br /><br />23. I love most kinds of music, though I'm not really a fan of R&B or rap. Dave has something like 500 CD's and has found my musicial education somewhat lacking. I don't need to know who sings it or what year it came out to sing along. I like to think I have expanded his musical horizons too. He's been to see George Strait with me twice. I think he even liked it. He drew the line at the New Kids on the Block reunion tour. Good thing they didn't come here.<br /><br />24. Somedays I can't believe I drive a minivan. No offense to those of you who really heart yours, but I certainly don't. It is practical. And the kids have ground up goldfish crackers into all the seats, so I guess it's best I don't care. Someday when I am old and gray, I think I will miss the minivan. And the car seats. And the Wheels on the Bus CD. Today, not so much.<br /><br />25. I am really and truly blessed. Every time life gets hard, I start making a list of all the blessings I have and I am overwhelmed. Especially the blessings that money cannot buy. I am even thankful for Facebook and blogging and the chance to reconnect with all of you! So do me a favor and make your 25 Random list! I would love to read about you!Dave, Catherine, Chandler, and Calliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17212261778721676393noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1419067581281348761.post-50453322734737552622009-01-19T21:13:00.004-06:002009-01-19T21:18:45.218-06:00Conversations: Fit as a....I think Callie may have heard the phrase "fit as a fiddle" one too many times. Where, I have no idea. Some examples:<br /><br />Mom: Callie, hold my hand, please. (as we cross the street)<br />Callie: Yes, so I will be safe as a fiddle.<br /><br />Mom: Callie, do you like your new coat?<br />Callie: Yes, I am cozy as a fiddle.<br /><br />Mom: Are you ready for lunch?<br />Callie: I am as hungry as a fiddle!<br /><br />Any ideas as to what she might think a "fiddle" is???Dave, Catherine, Chandler, and Calliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17212261778721676393noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1419067581281348761.post-50694984510283813962009-01-19T20:43:00.003-06:002009-01-19T20:51:58.631-06:00"Alone" Time<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLo7PNRBlNN5XRMYpO49dg-xfKJEd2ovSlxuy6awPIKXHIQmuA_mwKdGdpM4d2wMIgBmyQjIZS9y7BzY6mTrWxQzvuxqBveb-PiilFFHj01Dq3OSbr4ltSi5m3dnc8s2w_Ovdl0dGEgs0h/s1600-h/couple.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5293202715440203090" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLo7PNRBlNN5XRMYpO49dg-xfKJEd2ovSlxuy6awPIKXHIQmuA_mwKdGdpM4d2wMIgBmyQjIZS9y7BzY6mTrWxQzvuxqBveb-PiilFFHj01Dq3OSbr4ltSi5m3dnc8s2w_Ovdl0dGEgs0h/s400/couple.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div>We were able to spend the weekend after Christmas with David's family. We had a wonderful time and then on Sunday, David and I drove away, without the kids! Chandler and Callie had a great week with Ma, Pa, and Veronica. David and I had an amazing week together. We spent two days packing up my office and then spent the rest of the week doing projects around the house, going to out dinner, seeing movies, shopping and (gasp!) sleeping in! Dave had his first New Year's Eve off in 6 years. It was heavenly! But by day 6, we were so ready to get the kids the back! Life is back to normal now, but it was so nice to take some time to just be a couple again. Thanks again, Ma, Pa, and Veronica!</div>Dave, Catherine, Chandler, and Calliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17212261778721676393noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1419067581281348761.post-8948207202230655772009-01-19T20:19:00.006-06:002009-01-19T20:42:03.300-06:00ChristmasI am attempting to get caught up on the blogging, so here we go!<br /><br /><br />We had a wonderful Christmas. After Dave's crazy "peak" month at FedEx, it was nice to have some quality time just the four of us. We went to a special Christmas Eve service at Callie's school. Then we drove around and looked at Christmas lights, which Callie loved! Then Dave headed to FedEx (grrr) and came home just in time for Christmas morning. Santa was generous and we even had some extra packages from Santa's helper. (Thanks, Cottage Cheese!)<br /><br />Callie's biggest smile of the morning was for the sugar in her stocking!<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5293196738885426082" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 268px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEik5F26-RJoMWktdiTtjfTiy1Mj0CG_PwJBht2JB9LWeJ5hwIs0ZoMifElYXh2NH-gAtFtrWBQVpY1FqnPmSbv0fHHlZHPVjni19yCwgFmSJLhKY_16lxojbYOTYWEny6NehfiAHtdcFwK0/s400/callie.jpg" border="0" /><br /><br />Chandler was pretty stoked about his Inspector Gadget box set! Go Go, Gadget grin!<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5293196736517185570" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 268px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwG4CWiMWHvOnN85zsQXwJdbx026tsb9ZWkBwrSB4vA0BXUVuNfn6Q7xagHJL2fthHKK_XNVjP3zQKSa9iRDqFORtV18Nr_J1dw49B_vIgWFj9EVSblgMpwLT-aoHXJFrMm1pfwTVV0A_G/s400/chand.jpg" border="0" /><br /><br />My husband may kill me for this, but I have to post it. I was able to find he and Chandler matching footed dinosaur pajamas! Sorry ladies, they're both taken!<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5293196746382452194" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 268px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgc0Qj4IDzaeb9m3qAdzvY7NiGG5nFsUYePs57q5EkY1F-TIshrv0EQ4Cmz4f8JbDK3NAatf4Mztems32Qwox_jQBF2T56x3MHs0oep_3QNtjno1NP4VmHGrOj3HDpi45nyURhRxH1Bovp_/s400/dino.jpg" border="0" />Dave, Catherine, Chandler, and Calliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17212261778721676393noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1419067581281348761.post-48912105954520948162008-12-25T18:39:00.006-06:002009-01-01T01:41:07.723-06:00Christmas UpdateMerry Christmas from the Sparkmans! I didn't do an "official" letter this year, so I thought I'd update you on us.<br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5283905704569511714" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 266px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjj9UQ2FunIsWdRGU8GPD_yosQUdVNXFWI6rOVOxYIb9VE8DVM_aaBQSmrzIlYhEexd8aIard_LvJyO1euNGE9A0p_fHjaGnF__e3tiag_rde7HiMEmRIRL5RvNi0I-UWo4-5NJy5_e2Bq-/s400/fam.jpg" border="0" /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div></div><div>David is a busy, busy man. After pursuing the FedEx career path for the past 5 years, he decided that he absolutely hates it. Hates the work, hates working nights, hates being tired all the time. Can I get an Amen??? So after some prayer and pondering, he headed back to school in January to pursue a Masters in education. He is also planning a doctorate to teach education on a college level. Right now he is about half way done with a perfect 4.0. He has even achieved a 100% in a few of the classes. He took the PRAXIS and scored in the top 15% of anyone who has ever taken the test. We are so proud of him!! He also continues to work nights at FedEx and photographs weddings on weekends. </div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div>Catherine, too, manages to stay crazy busy. She still works two days a week as a real estate paralegal. Due to the economy, her current company is closing at the end of the year. She is starting at a new firm and hopes for the best. Her much more important job of wife and mother manages to fill the remainder of her time. Lately the roles of cook, maid, taxi driver, etc., have taken a back seat to nursemaid. (See the Plague Post for more info.) I am praying for a healthy 2009! In her free time (what's that?) she enjoys time with her family, book club, and nights out with the girls! (Also she really loves writing about herself in 3rd person.)</div><div><br /></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5283905700346888690" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 265px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEK5TUeDACMgF2Nj5nVwiiKZTX0A54qCoDcTUn62TQb86pVpqbka_WU651zlwVDUOmgVYiT4Gg5DlFm24GPmnyYjUOd8W-DNMVlCZJNGk7nLb0TRqx4hM8n0UFewzz6t8b6LwihN1pN3jk/s400/chand.jpg" border="0" /> <div></div><br /><div>Chandler (almost 6) graduated from preschool in May. He started kindergarten in August and loves it! We have full day kindergarten here, so the bus picks him up at 7:30 and brings him back at 3:15. It is a long day! But both Chandler and Mom have adjusted. Chandler has no trouble with the school work, just some trouble stayting on task. (I wonder who that sounds like?) He loves reading, math, and especially science. He loves to do "experiments", which are always fun to clean up. Chandler also loves to swim and got rings off the deep end of the pool this summer. </div><br /><br /><div></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5283905701567889090" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 265px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEK6PIPhPPcEjTraqLpKZ64ztev0IsyOn69UCQ9Mqw-T2hk3hAQJVV6EAwBbEKptcb7jB3ety-9FemOWUPzfDYg-bTB0P_3HrIVKiDL4h9zQkhUiE4F4cYVr1qnDnQd_v1BUcxTKw7bbzo/s400/cal.jpg" border="0" /><br /><div>Callie (3) started at the big girl preschool this fall. She is a little more tentative than her brother, but is enjoying it and doing well. She is a girly girl and loves pink, princesses, and dress up. The other day I attempted to put a blue shirt on her, and she said, "What are you putting on me? This is not pink!!" Callie has been absolutely in love with Christmas this year. She loves Baby Jesus and immediately removes him from any nativity scene she comes across to hold and love. (I think my Mom's is still missing.) She loves Santa, and the lights, and the cookies. She was upset when Santa came to our house last night and didn't say hi to her. She also wanted to pet his reindeer, Comet and Pukid. (aka Cupid, we gotta work on that one.) </div><br /><div></div><br /><div>2008, like all the others, has been a blessed year for our family. We have felt the Lord's hand as he has guided decisions, blessed our lives, and given us shelter from the storm. We are so thankful for the Savior, the true reason for the season, and for the opportunity to celebrate what he means to each of us. We hope this Christmas finds each of you healthy, happy, and surrounded by those you love. Happy Holidays!</div>Dave, Catherine, Chandler, and Calliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17212261778721676393noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1419067581281348761.post-61311395343184653862008-12-19T09:31:00.003-06:002008-12-19T10:05:18.262-06:00Bad Hair Day<div><div><div><div><div>Some of you may be aware of Callie's awesome morning hair. Girl's got skills. It mostly involves sleeping with a blanket over her head on slightly damp hair. This morning's do definitely seemed blog worthy.</div><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5281529939067702386" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi49vZiB4RMLxZxrJV4mY9Br8FQ3vAOCiD20yJ1QarR3PD0ZRyiwYLvwnuRJ5JPFpDpLXAQlGBOH5WT8rYPOKdol51a2D6ppaGEobU-q5qx-Ei8otA9G4yEb8pBG19BPAIJ4RIZjVvCCdmj/s400/before.jpg" border="0" /><br /><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div>The side view</div><br /><br /><div></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5281532552304106530" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeKd4EsaH2xlGEtKM0wyAsV4lMYeQhPuC1zJ7Y01kktgEUvivxgKrJ8sT8AmpxIERebWO2Ztya-UNLoM-v9H0VHZlgHBz-a4tNRLVWtD_gf_BQyCbG47V4gqVTB9OgimaRObiyNXpN-Tqz/s400/side.jpg" border="0" /><br /><div></div><br /><div>The back- Have you ever seen anything like it?</div><br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5281529936773765698" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz2xg7e5UPPO6uxqdVFFKnLkK4Xgm1qZJ7vRodCsjl6oK6b6KBS6YxC3mCbAAVz2k3EH1Z5szvhyphenhyphenPFTWDcli-0zM92omguGHNtng8x6XPNBaT610j0cUbMEI0HezPqSnfvhM5NN4HUbio6/s400/back.jpg" border="0" /> <div></div><div></div><div> </div><div>She does clean up nice, though.</div><br /><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5281529929051992866" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOOlgY8Vln4qJLkZWPgEFojWen42Ztu0fa_1vKOmooJa27Ot7mAxFV5IKZ3OmAQ2uD1r1Ws_z35koxqLqo558EGMRm05RzRSeHFyAH5t6zHfUfZaUDXanqSUH9RtCd9zNmGzJ_PO8PfiuV/s400/after.jpg" border="0" /></div><br /><div></div><br /><div></div></div></div></div></div>Dave, Catherine, Chandler, and Calliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17212261778721676393noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1419067581281348761.post-36456716461606236032008-12-15T21:30:00.006-06:002008-12-15T22:06:02.055-06:00Away in a Manger<div>We had the opportinity to participate in two live nativities this past weekend. On Saturday night, we had our Ward Christmas Party. The Primary children usually do a program and nativity.</div><br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5280228757979651938" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifqmxE_eLmsKXwwluQgwHNrYwETmkR5lLvECMlwARlE2HZ4SRLn3xHXqIJm_EWIu0XYTsqd3nC4tcTuZK53b3GwGKGecbZPL0Dazg7zC2esztcw2nmU2PJlE8ci2PxXOGmXF0__mudjhM7/s400/chan+group.jpg" border="0" /><br /><br /><div></div><br /><div>Chandler got to be one of the wisemen. (He was the one bringing the gold, he decided.)</div><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5280228776238337538" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRBAAWuZ4kVFYyZAytR42rJJkxftI4kLuIV_nAtTazXkP0Qn9hWZ2bg20-1psRbb2GF1x0cXxRC2xE6QudN8oneKUeApp4tK13D0Tm91tnpBF4fsc1Hl5__oVsDL1XX-P3P_uRGWO_Qqpz/s400/chan+wise.jpg" border="0" /><br /><div></div><div></div><br /><div>He did refuse to remove his medal, which he received for bowling a 100 at a birthday party the night before. It may have detracted from his outfit a little. But it IS gold, I guess.</div><br /><br /><div></div><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5280228767273768786" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh92H0X_bP367IGtC0JnTfROI9WK4HCQjArQqgF8l0XHWrUKG2Gi_5lWH7102nO-l8SpxcxevuzXj4mZzHIo90c87xIOKCLyEy1nKAJL8JrNV7rTTiZ3ra_HnzoM1LGwjwb_QGPldsLf1fH/s400/chan+medal.jpg" border="0" /> </div><br /><div></div><br /><br /><div>Callie has already decided she wants to be Mary next year, so she can hold Baby Jesus. Okay, Dawn? :)</div><br /><br /><div></div><div>Then on Sunday night, one of the local churches had a live nativity, complete with animals. The kids saw a donkey, a horse, some sheep, and 3 camels. </div><div></div><div>(If you look closely you can Chandler's blue hood, Ethan, and Callie at the bottom of the picture.)</div><div></div><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5280232776489345058" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSGZpcqcXL9GQr3kdYBi42hJxt7meK-leZLj0nVkYb2rmCNSjlM_XuaxKa0IYdC4rWo9MarI22MQWuw_zsP4-SL8vwnP-1jjRYN3EgY25vVx8ngewsRQQg5xg_DwtXe4XNI5sSd2PZzJBz/s400/camel.jpg" border="0" /><br /><br />The kids got to sit on the front row on haystacks, which was a big deal. Each showing sat 600 people! The production was really well done and straight from the scriptures.<br /><br /></div><div></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5280232781409537490" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTxTOrvUbeSc1SUJpPuCocbJUTpRfvJVABioNNmpRXhYBx5_pYHsmTPEkyfmLDFEWBNMJcHXCFY8qoJ245tWdBnl8bnf8z9aCnyIyYw3Wyhk-sVZpPjAu-Ddmcea2jYJIbalWS2-SbnJcD/s400/kids+camel.jpg" border="0" /><br /><div></div><br /><div>They also had crafts for the kids to do- painting, beading, etc.</div><br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5280228788456115186" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTfzuFnHP-XxTL2n_os2HXRgEGbkPO2_s89rJkferVuAFf8YUGT3PsshYoCLV55uN_ROH2Ictq49QD7IsPcPUQb_06g-1A_SWfmdH_EyYvHf6wpVczlSRNGh8Rzol_mYcnM757K_f-7rIV/s400/craft.jpg" border="0" /><br /><br /><div></div><div>It's so nice to have activities that help to reinforce the true meaning of Christmas. We are so thankful for this time of year to be able to celebrate the birth and life of the Savior. </div>Dave, Catherine, Chandler, and Calliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17212261778721676393noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1419067581281348761.post-40386580676358512572008-12-15T20:58:00.005-06:002008-12-15T21:24:02.098-06:00Pilgrims, Indians, and other Random Pics<div><div><div><div><div><div>Because of all the Thanksgiving illness, I ended up with very few, very random, Thanksgiving pictures. (Plague Number 3 is back, by the way.) There's no pictures of the table or all of us eating or anything traditional. Illness aside, we had a great time. Chad, Erin, and Brianna came from Sacramento, CA. Curtis, Alicia, and Nathan came from Denver, CO. It was nice to all be together again. Sadly, it will probably be annual event. So of course, my mother required family pictures and matching outfits.</div><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5280221116067078002" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 286px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIVo_n_lNneo6NlkfhwdiQ2O5bI7j0oJNKVMzi46Z1clnaFZRGuhOz_gUqhqklvcuHm_tvzY0OB753VOCOmBL_SbCDSYNEH-DJTSGtMZ7kyC7ZXYW3fONCJyW9oedB9OBCKdzeae_SXbdJ/s400/big_family_pic.jpg" border="0" /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5280221121655037090" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 266px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi56tI4y3Daqyv7ypoUqWBI_sCp6CUDcPuYLrn0zTBcPsgZFkkI0ygriurAyey_9CVaqzph_YhDP242Zy8Ws_1Byq1OVpdpk8M8vRKTk1Y_6AYhfS-ZrFCo6b6y1ALpablv_4vPVFMsHiOK/s400/grandkids.jpg" border="0" /></div><div>We went to the Germantown Tree Lighting. I left my camera in the car, so I ended up one with picture- the view of my backseat. We had a car full.</div><div> </div><div></div><div></div><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5280219962592436610" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdjMjBuk7pR5ACbK3R-VXFsrnQcda1TvLeU7qzUwYTUY54UoBbFJak3o3Wd4QxwKjAsJyhqlJKwA6FB1Z2lH3EVGw3zCEfDsmmDwtffdsT8qEYvNKu4fP3A3bb_6ae7BPNzWPS27flMdfX/s400/car.jpg" border="0" /><br /></div><div>The kids did make some cute Thanksgiving outfits.</div><div></div><div>Only Chandler could be a pilgrim AND Batman.</div><div> </div><div> </div><div></div><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5280219976102915490" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhU-xYCc1-oOoeQX8DuaIfkCb0rXEevCTu1x3asj01SkRxHHgxI9uAsmmqnkpObvDKmjCJtGt8-TwxGr6hJSNdDBcByXYOheoEaz55igP6TJ44zXGEo6LG3yOiK7bNcgYSwq029jCF9NNeT/s400/pilgrim.jpg" border="0" /></div><div></div><div>"Princess Callie", the Indian</div><div> </div><div></div><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5280219964323394354" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCye0zKeUXpHYhkvVpc2R8IkPtXVeuyuus7eUNFCMmC55nGFIfaKAb1kyr7HtC16bLjdhzxLXhFB2w2pERy_z7EPHstHMA3RvY-W3GU7J86f20oRvGSxn_s-PfZImer5wqlJtetbt6yge3/s400/indian.jpg" border="0" /></div><div></div><div>Come back soon. We miss you already!</div></div></div></div></div>Dave, Catherine, Chandler, and Calliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17212261778721676393noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1419067581281348761.post-70720260244082659792008-12-14T21:50:00.005-06:002008-12-15T21:29:52.013-06:00Christmas ConversationsChandler: Why were there no pigs at the first Christmas?<br />Me: I'm not really sure. Maybe there were.<br />Chandler: I bet the pig shephards didn't hear the angel.Dave, Catherine, Chandler, and Calliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17212261778721676393noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1419067581281348761.post-54636588491695175252008-12-07T13:56:00.005-06:002008-12-07T14:13:20.534-06:00The Ten PlaguesYes, I know I've been absent from blogging for a while. You know I'll have a good excuse. There were ten plagues, right? Here are the the 10 Sparkman plagues, all hitting our house in the last 5 weeks:<br /><br />1. My back went out. The bottom two vertebrae completely locked up. It was awesome. I now have a chiropracter, which is also awesome.<br />2. Bronchitis<br />3. Stomach Flu (vomiting)<br />4. Stomach Flu (the other stuff, which Chandler calls "swamp booty")<br />5. Ring Worm (Chandler is sporting a sweet bald spot.)<br />6. Random High Fever Virus- 104+ ( Dave has been calling Callie "Caliente" - which is spanish for hot for you gringos)<br />7. Staph Infection<br />8. Sinus Infection<br />9. The Common Cold, complete with all night hacking<br />10. Pink Eye<br /><br />We did have a lovely Thanksgiving with my brothers and their families (when they weren't throwing up or running a fever.) I promise to post some new pictures soon. But right now I gotta go find the eye drops and the bleach.Dave, Catherine, Chandler, and Calliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17212261778721676393noreply@blogger.com6