Detroit + Happy Valley = New York City

Last Day of PreK

2011-06-30T14:22:00.003-04:00

Tuesday was the last day of school for Chase, it has been a year where I have watched him grow and learn more then I could have imagined. We watch our shy, introverted and often times timid little boy gain confidence, self-esteem and independence. We were blessed with wonderful teachers who took the time to know and understand Chase, they helped him, encouraged him and loved him and as a parent I couldn't have asked for anything more.

Ms. Davis

Ms. Johnson

Dermaine, Chase, Antoine, Bossie

When you ask Chase his favorite thing about school, he'll say:

Doing the calendar

Drawing/writing (everyday we would come home with at least 3-5 pages)

The attendance (he always knew how many boys and girls were in class and who was missing)

Playground

As we start our summer adventures, I'm excited to have him home and look forward to spending time with him.

Halloween

2011-01-17T20:29:00.000-05:00

For Halloween Riley and I were the only ones to dress up this year. Chase wanted to be spiderman and wore his costume once it just wasn't on Halloween.

Our lil' witch

Given I still have a say in what Riley can be I figured we may as well be twin witches

Chase playing musical chairs at the ward Halloween party

Boo at the Zoo

2011-01-17T19:43:00.002-05:00

October 2010

We went to Boo at the Zoo (the Bronx Z00), it was fun to see the zoo all decorated for Halloween and the kids had a great time.

Chase and Eliot running through the corn maze

Eleanor and Riley

Just one more fabulous family picture

Chase and Eliot enjoying the Elephants

The Next Stop is Chase Street

2011-01-16T19:20:00.005-05:00

Chase's 4th Birthday - October 13, 2010

Anyone who knows Chase, knows how much he LOVES the subway so it was a natural choice for his 4th birthday. We made subway cupcakes, subway favor bags, even subway stops and thanks to his good friends Eliot and Kajsia he even got a subway shirt. It was a lot of fun to have a few friends over and all of his girl cousins, that were in town for a girls weekend, to help celebrate.

(We lost our camera shortly after Chase's bday and by the time we got a new one the Halloween decoration were already up but at least it give you a sense of what we did)

An afternoon with friends

2011-01-13T22:08:00.003-05:00

We meet up with Ashley, Eliot, Eleanor, Tamara, Tedrah and Rial at the Central Park Zoo and then walked through Central Park it was prefect afternoon.

Chase Started PreK

2011-01-13T21:41:00.003-05:00

First Day of School
The biggest event this year (in my opinion) Chase started school and not just a couple hours 2 days a week, we are talking M-F 8:45 - 2:50. I was so nervous to have him start, he is my baby the thought of him in someone else's care for 32 hours a week was hard to swallow. I worried must about the outside influences, I mean we was 3 when we started, as I can't control his environment I have learned to trust him and what we have taught him. It made we realize just how important my role as a mother is and just how short my time with him really is.

I'm happy to report that he is doing better then I ever thought, I was sure on the first day he would be the one crying and not wanting me to go. It was just the opposite, he walked in and never looked back. I'm grateful for good teachers, Ms. Davis and Ms. Johnson have been wonderful.

After each unit they hold "Shining Star" award ceremonies, in October Chase received the "Future Author"

A Visit From Family

2011-01-13T21:13:00.003-05:00

Tyler's brother and his family came for a visit, which was wonderful given we haven't seem them in 3 years as they had been living Germany. Not only did the kids have a great time getting to know their cousin's but it was great for Tyler and I as well.

Just a few highlights:

We headed out to The US OPEN - Billy Jean King National Tennis Center the day before the Open started and were able to watch a couple practice matching going on. Chase loved watching the tennis players...who knows maybe he'll take after is dad and play tennis in high school.

It was so hot and Chase kept asking for shade, he finally found some.

Bailey, Bryn, Chase and Avery at the Natural History Museum

Watching the duck/geese at the pond in the south part of Central Park

A Walk Along Battery Park

2011-01-13T21:07:00.003-05:00

One of my favorite things to do in the summer is to walk along Battery Park and up the Hudson, it's beautiful and the kids have a great time running, playing at playgrounds, watching the boat, etc.

I must be thinking of summer already...which might be because I'm currently freezing.

A Visit to the Transit Museum

2011-01-13T20:49:00.003-05:00

On a rainy day in August we headed out to the Transit Museum, the kids love being able to run through all the old train cars and we were even able to get in on a little scavenger hunt the museum was doing.
Here is a side by side (or up and down) picture of the girls

August 2010

February 2010

Rogers' Grandkid Pictures

2011-01-13T19:44:00.004-05:00

While in UT we had grandkid pictures taken, given my parents are up to 17 we decided to have one of my good friends Kami Averett take the pictures outside. Let's just say it was quite the adventure however Kami was fantastic and we ended up with a few great shots.

All 17

What a good looking group of boys

(I must admite this is probably one of my favorites)

Let's just say the girls had a much harder time - but we love them just the same.

Utah part 2

2011-01-13T19:22:00.004-05:00

Tyler was traveling to CA and TX for work while we were in UT and he was able to stop over and spend the weekend with us. After we picked Tyler up from the airport we headed over to Temple Square, I felt like it had been years since we'd been there. The kids enjoyed walking around, playing in all the fountains and looking at the flowers.

Summer Vacation - Utah

2010-09-15T22:07:00.000-04:00

The kids and I head back to Utah every summer and this year we spent 3 weeks hanging out with my family and having a great time. I always plan on seeing friends while I'm there unfortunately even with 3 weeks, I wasn't able to see everyone I wanted to...hopefully we'll catch up next time.

Auston, Jack, Audrey, Chase and Riley

We had a shower for my youngest sister Stephanie who was due on August 11th, but the little guy waited just long enough for a trip to Bear Lake and FHE at the cabin before he made is debut 8 days early.

Teagan Spencer

Chase and Riley loved my parents backyard - Riley would go around "picking the flowers", swinging on the swings and jumping on the trampoline.

The 1st thing Chase would ask in the mornings is if he could go jump on the tramp, he loved it.

We headed up to Bear Lake for the weekend which was great given we missed Lake Powell this year, however spending the day on the water made me miss LP even more. It's been years since I've been to Bear Lake and all I remembered is the fresh raspberry shakes, how cold the water was and having the worst sunburn of my life (we are talking covered in blusters bad), however I had forgotten just how gorgeous it is.
The kids had a great time playing on the sand, riding in the boat and playing with their cousins.

Chase loved riding on the boat, I don't think he moved from this spot all day.

Chase and Dave

Steven, and BFF's Audrey, Hailey and Taylor

Morgan and Ryan

FHE at the cabin

Morgan, Garrett, Ryan and Emma enjoying the great outdoors

Hailey, Riley, Taylor and Lissy

We hiked Stewart Falls:
Hanging out with the cousins at Thanksgiving Point:

The newest members of the Rogers Clan:

Jack (June 12) and Teagan (August 2)

Keys to the City

2010-07-30T11:16:00.001-04:00

We've been out using our Key to the City:
Trinity Church, the key opens the gate to the cemetery however when we arrived the gate was open with no way of closing it but the boys still loved unlocking the pad lock.
St. John Divine: The key opens the gate to The Baptistry

After St. John's we found this cute community playground

The playground was awesome, it was like having a big backyard with toy cars, tricycles, playhouses, etc the kids had a great time.

Summer Days

2010-07-26T11:00:00.005-04:00

So far this summer has been a scorcher so we spend many days running around in swim suits trying to stay cool.

The rest of the 4th of July weekend

2010-07-26T08:00:00.000-04:00

A few weeks late but better late then never.

A bike ride through Central Park

Playing at a playground

Cooling off at the the Samsung store

Chase studying a map of the NYC and the Subway trying to decide where we should go

We stopped by the new lego store at Rockefeller Center, it was a great place to cool off and let the kids play with all the legos.

We loved having Nana, Papa, Ryan, Melissa, Keira and Soren here, come again soon.

Photo booth

2010-07-19T18:01:00.003-04:00

Last week on our way home we stumbled upon one of the Free Target photo booths and had our pictures taken.

With Target opening in Manhattan on July 25th they have been sponsoring free family friendly activities all week.

New Spice | Study like a scholar, scholar

2010-07-17T13:10:00.001-04:00

For the small majority of you that haven't seen this . . . Enjoy.

4th of July

2010-07-15T19:55:00.009-04:00

We love the 4th of the July and are so glad that Tyler's family joined us once again this year. His parents have been out the 4 years and this year his brother Ryan and his family joined. We had a great time and despite the heat we walked and walked all over Manhattan and part of Brooklyn.

Dinner at Rosa Mexicano for Tyler's birthday, we love you sweetie

Union Square Playground

A walk on the Highline was the prefect activity after a long day in the car, the kids loved being able to run around.

Nana picked up some gelato and Chase and Keira literally shared the entire cone, thanks nana for sharing.

A walk across the Brooklyn Bridge:

Ice Cream from the Brooklyn Ice Cream Factory:

Riley is following in the footsteps of her dad and brother and their love of ice cream
We tried to visit the Transit Museum but when we got there it was closed for the Holiday, but the kids all had a great time playing on the street.
Carousel at Bryant Park

The roof top deck of Tyler's office awaiting the fireworks.

I love the 4th of July, and not just for the countless number of family traditions but for what it represents, our Freedom as a Nation and for the number of men and women who have and continue to fight to protect that Freedom. I'm proud to be an American and not just on the 4th of July but every day before and every day after, so Thank You to everyone who fights for the Land of the Free and Home of the Brave.

Primary Activity

2010-07-08T21:14:00.003-04:00

We attended our wards primary activity, the kids had a great time throwing waters balloons, rolling in the dirt and playing with friends.

I love this picture of Eliot, Chase, Harper and Emmaline

They loved the water balloons

Riley loved the wood clips, she would eat them, roll around in them, show them to you, etc. Didn't matter what we did she always managed to find her way back to the wood.

Other Happenings in June

2010-07-08T20:51:00.006-04:00

So before I move on to July I must finish June.

A visit to the Central Park Zoo:

Museum Mile:

We attend this event each year, I love walking down 5th Ave, the crowds, the street performers, running into friends, all of it...I just wish I could actually take advantage of the free admissions to the museums but with 2 kids, a double stroller and no husband it makes it a little difficult but we still have a great time.

Big Apple BBQ:

**Chase slept through the BBQ

Governors Island

2010-07-05T11:09:00.005-04:00

A couple weeks ago we headed down to Governors Island for the day and had a great time touring homes, visiting Fort Jay and participating in The Smithsonian National Museum of American Indian festivities.

The MTA Meltdown and Recovery

2010-06-30T18:38:00.007-04:00

It is no secret that Chase LOVES the subway, he like many other New York kids are fascinated by it, he studies the maps and knows each stop and transfers. His speech therapist gave him a placemat with the subway map on it, it is by far one of the most played with "toys" in our house along with the toy subway trains (we have 7 of them). Chase is constantly "playing" subway conductor around the house, and every once in awhile he'll say a name of a stop, that is unfamiliar to me and he'll pull the map out and show me where it is. He know's his subway, which you can catch a glimpse of in the following account of what happened before bedtime a couple weeks ago.

Chase 's trains & photography

We were walking a long 23rd street when we past 6th Ave where the F, V trains stop and Chase noticed that the sign said F, M trains. I mentioned that the V train would stop running in a week or so and the M train would be replacing it, so many questions...and eventually we went on with our day. Severally hours later it was bedtime. Chase and I were laying on our bed getting ready to sing a few songs, he was almost asleep and then...

Chase - Why is the V train not working...

I tried my very best to explain to him why the MTA was cutting the V train services, to help with cost and so forth, the M train would replace it...

Then the tears started, he was crying for 20 minute about the V train. He was upset that the M train is now orange instead of brown, which then lead to him stating "I don't like the J M Z trains. I want the V train, its suppose to be orange, not the M train."

I couldn't help but smile as the tears ran down his face, I knew Chase loved the subway but I had know idea how passionate he was over lines/trains we never ride. The only way I was able to calm him down is by promising we would ride the V train before it was gone.

The promised V Train ride.

Thankfully, the Key to the City had just the place for us to go, Eddie's Ice Cream shop in Forest Hills, which allowed us to ride the V train all the way to the last stop.

As we wondered through Queens on our way to Eddies Ice Cream shop, we entered the Garden section of Forest Hill, and can I say it was beautiful. I never would have believe it except I saw it with my own 2 eyes...I couldn't help but take pictures of houses, Chase running on the lawn and walking down the sidewalk with grass on both sides.

Eddies, the key opened up a box where you could leave a message and a discount on yummy ice cream, I think the boys where in heaven.

Writing their message for the box

Chase loves his vanilla ice cream with sprinkles

We had a great day venturing out on the V train.

** It should be noted that I was a bit surprised he wasn't upset about the W train, which was also cut.

Make Music New York

2010-06-27T15:38:00.004-04:00

This week we celebrated the 1st day of summer with Make Music New York, over a 1000 free music concerts around NYC. We started it off by the Harlem Meer, listening to a piano player, playing one of the many "Play Me, I'm Your's" pianos that have been positioned around the NYC for anyone to play at anytime. We were able to meet up with a group of friends and head over to the Great Hill in Central Park for "Mission to Mars" world music. I was a little wary when we walked up and saw two guys setting up with a drum and a sitar, an instrument from India, however I was pleasantly surprised when the kids started dancing once the music started. The musicians where great and even let the kids play the drum.

We headed down to Lincoln Center to watch kids group from Hoboken, NJ called "The Fuzzy Lemons" who were teamed up with "Little Miss Matched" who were handing out free socks. We enjoyed the group so much that we picked up a CD which we have listened to every day since. As we walked up the Upper West Side we stopped along the way listening to different groups Rock, Jazz, Classical, etc.

I look forward to this event each year and this year was especially fun with Chase, whether it was dancing to the sitar or listening to Beatles song or a piano player he enjoyed every minute.

Fantastically Fun

2010-06-18T18:47:00.006-04:00

Summer time brings endless number of activities all over the City and the best part is most of them are free. Given life can change at any time and we really don't know when we will leave New York my good friend Ashley and I decided to have a summer of no regrets...3 years ago. So here is to summer #3 of no regrets.

Shakespeare in the Park started last week, we waiting in line on opening day got tickets however it was rained out so we tried again this week and were lucky enough to get tickets to Winter's Tale. I have to admit in the 5 years we have lived here, this was my 1st experience and I loved it, it was also great to see so many Harlemites in attendance.

We always enjoy the free kid concerts at Madison Square Park and on Thursday "Bubbles do Beatles" were playing, who can resist the Beatles? We met up with Ashley and Tamara with kids in tow and enjoyed watching kids and adults rock out to all the great classics. We then headed over to the Shake Shack for lunch.

There is currently an art instillation, in the same area called "Event Horizon", 31 life-size body forms have been place on roof tops of the surrounding buildings and at ground level. I'll say I was a little unsure if Chase would 1) be into it 2) if he would even be able to see them but figured we would give it a go. Chase, Tedrah and Eliot couldn't get enough, they loved looking for and finding all the statues, Huge Hit.

It was such a beautiful day and to early to say goodbye so we head up to Time Square and are now proud holders of Keys to the City ; let the adventure's begin.

waiting in line for Keys to the City

You have exchange keys with someone, I had Chase and Riley exchange in consideration of being a good sister/brother. Very cute.

Friday, we decided to take advantage of our new key and free time at the NY Hall of Science in Queens. I think this is the 1st time we have ventured to Queens with the exception of a couple Met's games and the US Open. We headed out on the 7 train which Chase was elated about and stopped for lunch at Tortilleria Nixtamal and used our Key to the City to head down to the kitchen and see how they make their corn tortilla's from scratch and to enjoy one made just for us. Side note, I also learned how to use my own tortilla press, very excited tortilla's here I came.

Chase and Eliot were able to sign the door

Chase's 1st dissection, a cows eye

It has been a fantastic week, great activities, great food, great company and better yet great kids. Summer here we come.

4 day weekend part 1

2010-06-02T16:05:00.006-04:00

Tyler had Friday and Monday off for Memorial Day and we enjoyed every minute we had with him. Here is the first part of the weekend and Riley's bday.

Friday morning Chase and I headed to Wave Hill with a little preschool group we've been going to, it was beautiful and definitely worth a repeat visit.

All the kids loved watching the frogs

Friday afternoon for Riley's Birthday we headed down to Central Park to ride the Carousel and play in the park. Chase doesn't really care for carousel, so he and Tyler just watched and took pictures. It was a prefect evening to be out - We walk along the upper west side, stopped by Lincoln Center to enjoy their new green space and window shopped along the way. It was one of those evenings you just don't want to end . . . and then the meltdowns start, and you have to go home.

We tried to take a pictures of the kids together and this is the best one.

A view of the Temple from Lincoln Center

Happy Birthday, Riley

2010-05-28T15:30:00.000-04:00

It's hard to imagine that a year ago today we were in the hospital welcoming little Riley into our family. She has been such a delight and has such a happy disposition. We've enjoyed watching her every step of the way.

A little bit about Riley:

- She's a peanut (in other words, she's really small)

- She started walking 10 1/2 months

- She finally has more then 2 teeth, the top two came in last week

- She loves to cuddle (when she's tired)

- She is busy. She loves walking and is starting to run (or at least she tries)

- She love fruit

- She is a climber

- She loves the playground and tries to keep up with her brother

- She and Chase love to chase each other around the house

- And let's not forget, she's already a tease

It's amazing to watch as she is exploring the world around her, she is fearless, I recently told my mom she will be my child with broken bones and stitches. She is ALWAYS on the go. I love seeing the differences between she and Chase and watching their relationship develop.

We love you Ry - Happy Birthday.

I think I'm in love

2010-05-28T15:02:00.005-04:00

So, I work in advertising. I'm an ad man - just like Don Draper. It's been a while since I've seen a commercial this good, so I thought I'd share. Enjoy -

It's been too long, I know

2010-05-24T10:56:00.006-04:00

I have a million excuse of why I haven't blogged but it wasn't until I was uploading our pictures for the year and realized just how few I have taken in the last 5 months. When I'm update our blog consistently I take more pictures; so now that we have a new computer and Riley is turning one this week and I have about half the number of pictures of her 1st year compared to Chase's 1st year...well lets say I'm recommitting to the blog more for myself then anyone else. So here we go.

A Snap Shot of the last 5 months.

January playing in the snow - Morningside Park

A Trip to Utah

Feeding Grandpa's horses with the cousin's

Ice Castles in Midway

Spring time in the NYC:

Tyler, Riley and Chase walking in the Conservatory Gardens, Central Park

Chase had found a piece of chalk at the playground, when I turned around he was writing the alphabet

Chillin' in Redhook, Brooklyn

Tonight's Conversation

2010-03-29T23:35:00.002-04:00

For Family Home Evening we talked about Jesus Christ, His resurrection and Easter. Chase had been lying in bed for about 45 minutes when he walked out and asked where Jesus was, I answered that He is not here but watching over us, he went back to bed and 15 minutes later the following conversation happened:

Chase: Is Jesus in my room?

Mom: No, he is in Heaven watching over us.

Chase: Is Jesus next to me?

Mom: No, he is getting ready for bed just like you. (trying to get him to go to sleep)

Chase: Jesus is far way.

Mom: Yes

Chase: You have to take an airplane to see Him?

Mom: No, you can't take an airplane.

Chase: You have to take a taxi?

Mom: No.

The conversation continues...

Mom: Jesus, is your big brother...

Chase: He is a big boy like me?

Mom: Yes, Chase he is a big boy like you.

and an hour later he is still up asking where Jesus is.

Her First Step and Promise for more updates

2010-03-22T14:57:00.004-04:00

Riley will be 10 months on Sunday & last Saturday she took her 1st steps

Right now

2010-01-16T12:02:00.002-05:00

Bowling at Harlem lanes. Chase couldn't be happier. Sent from my iPhone

Merry Christmas

2009-12-24T10:03:00.005-05:00

i can’t believe another year has come and gone, but what a great one its been. in may, we welcomed little ms. riley to our family, she was 7 lb 6 oz. she has been wonderful baby and a delight to have in our home. from a very young age (1 week) she was already enjoying central park and the playground with her big brother. she’s been a real trooper as we have been to countless playgrounds, summer concerts, museums, zoos, and the list goes on-and-on. although she may not be the marathon sleeper her brother was in the stroller she is always a good sport to be out for long hours.

it’s been a fun year to watch chase grow and discover what his likes and dislikes are. he loves anything to do with numbers and letters, but his first love is the subway. he can tell you all the stops, which trains run express vs. local, were you can transfer and what is at each stop (at least our frequent stops that this). when you ask him what he would like for christmas he’ll say the “c” train (which is the train by our house). i can’t believe our little boy is 3; time really does fly by.

tyler continues to work at mcgarrybowen, he recently switch accounts from disney to chevron and is enjoying the change. it’s been a great year for me; i love being home with our kids and recognize it as a huge blessing.

we wish you all a merry christmas and a happy new year

love, tyler, minde, chase and riley

A Visit To See Santa

2009-12-04T17:44:00.004-05:00

A couple weeks ago, I started mentioning Santa to Chase in hopes that he would get excited about Christmas. When he asks for something like Candy Land, or the "C" train, I say we'll have to ask Santa for it. He has been asking about Santa, where is he, what is he doing, etc., so this morning we wrote a letter to Santa and headed down to Macy's Santa Land to see Santa. I was in high spirits that Chase would like Santa this year; the last two years have been less then ideal - lots of crying, not wanting to sit on Santa's lap, etc. Let's just say, this year was probably worse then last - As soon as we got in line, he started to cry, yelling he wanted to go home, falling on the fall, the works. I should have known. Anyway, I was determined we were going to see Santa I figured after we walked through the winter wonderland and looked at the trains, the stuffed penguins and bears all would be well. We walked in to see Santa and Chase stayed in the stroller crying and asking to go home. On the plus side, Riley really enjoyed it and loved Santa. Here's to hoping next year will be better.

On the way home we stop by a Gingerbread House display at the Le Parker Meridien at least he enjoyed that.

The "5" trains was by far Chase's favorite

Grand Central Terminal

Riley turns 6 months

2009-11-29T22:50:00.006-05:00

I can't believe you are 6 months old, you are such a delight to have in our home. Your best feature is when you smile your entire face scrunches up and I can't help but laugh and smile every time you do it. You are just starting to sit up all by yourself, you hate being left alone and will cry until we walk back in the room and you love to pull Chase's hair and he lets you do it. You are still on the small side (we go to the doctor tomorrow) you wear 3-6 month clothes and can still fit into some of your 0-3 month. We love you little peanut. Note: I was never a fan of calling kids peanut, however it just fits little Riley.

Thanksgiving

2009-11-29T21:40:00.006-05:00

What are you grateful for this year? This year like years past, I am grateful for a loving husband, who works hard and has a strong love for the gospel, 2 beautiful children that make every day a little brighter. I am grateful for the gospel, the knowledge and peace it provides me in my life, I'm grateful for a supportive family that I can count on at any time and for technology that allows as to be connected no matter where we live.

This year my brother and his family came over from Champaign, IL, for the week. We had a great time exploring the City, with 4 kids under 3. We walked through Central Park, lunch at the Shake Shack, 5th Ave, Rockefeller, Bryant Park, Brooklyn Bridge, lottery for Next to Normal and winning, balloons for the Thanksgiving Day parade, Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade, Thanksgiving dinner, Natural History Museum, and a little bit of shopping. Wow what a week and the kids were great.

Auston, Audrey and Chase

Feeding the ducks in Central Park

Chase and Riley loved having Auston and Audrey around the house. Auston couldn't get enough cars in his little hands, whenever we were home he had at least 4 or 5 in each hand. Audrey her little voice is just too cute, I've missed having it around the last couple of days. Thanks for making the drive, we had a fabulous time.

Riley and Daddy enjoying the parade

We arrived at the parade at 6:45 am, the kids were great given it didn't start until 9:00 am thanks to the help of a dvd player, ipod touch and goldfish.

Sesame Street

Cindy Lauper

This is how Chase enjoyed most of the parade, playing with my phone.

The only picture taken of Thanksgiving dinner, our place cards. I must say Kristen and I made a pretty good team cooking dinner, given it was the 1st time either of us had cooked a turkey.

Chase and his cupcakes

2009-11-24T09:29:00.003-05:00

About a week ago we walked into our favorite cupcake store "Make my Cake" and it just happened that the news was doing a feature on their "Sweet Potato Cupcake", Chase made the cut, you can see him at about 1:26, click here

White Mountains

2009-11-21T08:27:00.005-05:00

I have always wanted to see New England in the fall and this year we decided to head North and take advantage of the Columbus Day weekend. We made our way to New Hampshire to spend the weekend with my cousin Mike and Ariane, we had a great time enjoying great food, a beautiful landscape and wonderful company. We met up with them in Portsmonth for dinner and a walk around a very charming downtown area. The next day they were gracious enough to take us for a drive up to the White Mountains, which were beautiful, it was just what we were looking for.

We were also headed over to York, ME to check out the lighthouse, what a beautiful day.

Riley just chillin' on the rock.

We had a fabulous weekend, thank you Mike and Ariane for everything, it's been great to see more of each other the last year or so, we need to keep it up before one of us leaves the east coast. We can't wait to meet your little bundle of joy (in February of course), you will be wonderful parents. Thanks again.

Back in Business

2009-11-09T19:05:00.004-05:00

So, as you can tell blogging hasn't been happening/a priority lately it doesn't mean I haven't wanted to, it just means my time has been spent elsewhere (named Chase and Riley). So here we go, I can't promise any kind of order but rather snap shots of the last several months.

Chase at 3

Chase turned 3, I can't believe how quickly they become little people. He has always found a way to get what he wants, he in constantly pushing the chairs around the house in order to get whatever it is. Lately he is all about getting his own food waffles, chicken, ice cream, milk, you get the idea, not a big deal as long as I'm around to help, right. Well not long after he turned 3 I could hear him in the kitchen, chair and all, getting the waffles out of the freezer. I told him I would be right there to help with the toaster and getting a plate, however by the time I reach the kitchen, maybe a minute later, he had already put the waffles in the toaster, pushed it down, got a plate out of the cupboard, utensils out, butter and syrup ready to go. I just had to smile and cry just little at how self sufficient he is becoming.

Other great things about Chase:

He loves letters and numbers

He loves the Subway, he knows all the subway stops

He loves "chicken and fries"

He loves the park/playgrounds

He loves to play games with daddy on the wii

He loves mommies iPhone

He loves to play with his friends

He loves to walk and walk and walk

He loves Riley and is a great big brother

Chase - Day 1

Chase at 1

Chase at 2

Chase you have been such a joy and a blessing to have in our home, we love you.

You can't help but love moments like this...

2009-09-16T21:29:00.004-04:00

(make sure the volume is turned up)

* In case you're wondering, it's the second verse of Families Can Be Together Forever

A visit with the grandparents

2009-09-05T21:13:00.005-04:00

Before Tyler headed back to New York, we headed down to visit with his grandparents, and also to introduce Ms. Riley to her two great-grandmas and great grandpa. It was so cute, we walked into the Stewart's and the first thing Chase said was "where's the train?" He was referring to the train around the Christmas tree he had seen in December. Oh, the things kids reminder.

Grandma and Grandpa Stewart

Grandma Stewart (above) and Grandma Wilson (below) just adored her.

I love visiting with Tyler's grandparents, they are so warm and loving and have a very special place in my heart. We love you all and can't wait to see you next time we're out.

Lake Powell

2009-09-01T07:34:00.011-04:00

I've known since last summer that this years' vacation would be to Lake Powell with my family, I can't go more then a year without going, it runs in my blood. It's the only place where 110 degree weather is permitted and one of the few places where internet and cell service are hard to come by.

I love being on the water, water skiing, tubbing and exploring the canyons, but more then anything I love spending time with my family. Given you are in close quarters for a week you don't have much of an option but to get along. It allows us to reconnect as family and friends, we have a great time laughing, playing games and working together. Growing up, I didn't ever understand why we couldn't bring friends along on family vacation, however I now look back and see that it was during those time when we grew as a family and friendship were made. There was a real value in spending time with each other way from our every day life and no doubt strengthen our relationships than and now.

Chase loved the water but only on his terms, we couldn't force him to get in but when he asked we jumped on it. Once he was in, he loved to float, swim and splash everyone around. Given we were the first ones up every morning we were able to enjoy some of the best water of the day and every morning Chase would have to warm up to the ski boat, by the end of the week he loved "grandpa's" boat and the house boat.

Riley, she was a true champ, she loved riding on the boat and LOVED the water. We even took her on the tube...just kidding it was only a photo op.

All the cousin (or at least the ones at LP)
Thanks mom and dad for a great vacation.

Today My Heart Melted

2009-08-11T21:19:00.003-04:00

While I was making dinner, Riley was in the swing starting to fuss and Chase was playing with his trains and thats when it happened....

"I Love You, Riley"

I just stopped and smiled, what a great way to end the day.

WOW - I can't believe I haven't posted in a month...

2009-07-20T22:09:00.011-04:00

A visit from nana and papa

Since we moved to NYC Tyler's parents have come over to celebrate 4th of July with us - I would now call it a tradition, which we love. This year not only were they here to celebrate the 4th but also to meet our little Riley.

Riley's Blessing

4th of July
Enjoying a Yankees:

After the Yankees game, we headed down to Tyler's office to watch the Firework on the roof top. Let just say 3rd times the charm, the last two years we've watched the fireworks on the FDR in the rain. This year the fireworks were on the Hudson River, celebrating the 400th year of Henry Hudson exploration of the river, Tyler's office sits on the river. The view was
spectacular a clear night, a slight breeze, great company and a show that will be hard to top.

A visit to the Bronx Zoo:

Chase can you smile for the camera?

She's still a little small for the stroller

A playground in SOHO:

Nana and Papa, we love having you visit and can't wait to see you again.

2009-07-20T21:31:00.005-04:00

I can't believe he is big enough to sit by himself on the subway...where did my little boy go?

A visit to the Bronx Zoo:

River to River Festival: Opera, Magical Flute

He actually watching the opera...for about 10 min

If you can't tell Chase isn't much for family pictures

Riley 1 month old

Tyler turned 30 this last month, we celebrated with friends, homemade ice cream and 30 toppings...

Since grandma left...

2009-06-18T15:38:00.004-04:00

Wow, I can't believe Riley is 3 weeks old, how time fly's, I often look at her and am amazed how much she has changed. Her hair is lighter, she is getting longer, slowly gaining weight and already has a little personality. Chase loves to hold her and give her kisses, I do have to remind him to be soft and gentle with her. Whenever she is asleep he goes up to her and say's "Riley wake up" until she wake's up, he also takes her pacifier out and then say's "mommy help" when he can't get it back in.

In order to help Chase with all the changes, I've tired hard to make sure his schedule hasn't been interrupted as much as possible. Although, I have a hard time sitting at home, it was nice to have my mom and sister here that first week or I'm not sure I would have had any rest. Anyway, as a result we have been out and about (weather permitting) most days, Riley has been a real trooper as we (mainly me) are still trying to get everything figured out.

I also realized that I haven't taken a lot of pictures of Riley, I must work on it.

The night my mom left, the kids and I headed over to 5th Ave. for the Museum Mile, we walked down the street with friends, enjoying music, storytelling and sidewalk chalk. We had a great time.

While my mom was in town she bought some watercolor paints for Chase that just happen to be the shape of numbers, incase you didn't know Chase LOVES numbers, so I'm not sure which he liked more painting or the fact that they were numbers?
Sleeping little Riley

When Chase first came to the hospital to see Riley we had her give Chase a present, a couple subway trains and additional train tracks. He has loved playing with the trains and tracks and so has Tyler; although I'm not sure who likes it more.
Last weekend we headed down to the Big Apple BBQ we enjoyed pulled pork and delicious ribs.
Tuesday the kids and I headed down to Madison Square Park to enjoy a free kids concert from Elizabeth Mitchell.
A failed attempt at a family photo...

Welcoming Riley Cameron Christensen

2009-06-08T16:46:00.013-04:00

Our little princess arrived on Thursday, May 28, 2009 at 6:56 am, weighing in at 7 lbs 6 oz and 19 1/2"

The other night I mentioned to Tyler that although Riley was only a week old I felt like she had been with us forever (in a good way). I remember feeling the same way with Chase, yet your life is never the same once you bring these sweet spirits into your homes/lives. I have felt very blessed lately to have two healthy, beautiful little ones in my life, they bring so much joy and happiness. Although it can be overwhelming at times and I often question if I'm doing all I can to help them reach their full potential, I wouldn't change it for the world. I love you Riley and Chase, your smiles make it all worth while.

Here are the long awaited pictures of Riley's big arrival and first couple of weeks.

I would also like to thank our good friends Noelle, Ashley and Tamara for helping out with Chase while I was in the hospital. We are fortunate to have such great friends to step in and help out - THANK YOU!!!!

We were lucky to have my mom and sister's come into town; Cyd and Steph just happen to have a business meeting the week after Riley was born and they were able to convince Lisa to come out with them. It was great to have them here and although I wasn't able to join them while they shopped, it was great to hang out, eat, laugh and watch TV. While Cyd and Steph were only here for a couple days it was great to see them. My mom and Lisa were able to stay a little longer, they were a great help with Chase and Riley. I'm not sure what I'll do with out an extra part of hands.

Thanks mom for cleaning my house before you left, truly I've never seen my bathroom floor look go good.

Steph, Cyd, Lisa and Riley

While We Wait

2009-05-24T10:35:00.005-04:00

So I thought I should at least have one picture of me pregnant...I'm not a huge fan of taking pictures of myself while pregnant, however sometimes I wish I were. I had Tyler take this yesterday.

May 23, 2009, almost 40 wk

We are or should I say I am trying to be patient while waiting for our little girl to arrive, so yesterday we ventured down to the Central Park Zoo, Chase had a great time. He are just a few pictures from yesterday.

Chase is lounging on the spider web (he is covering his ear because of the fire trucks driving by)

Before we headed out for the day, Chase had wondered into the bathroom and by the time I checked on him this is what I found...

Vote for NYC Best Party Entertainer

2009-05-12T09:37:00.002-04:00

Our good friend Kiasa has been nominated for NYC Best Party Entertainer, Science Explorers, you can vote everyday until July 15.

A Beautiful Spring Weekend

2009-04-19T21:11:00.009-04:00

This past weekend was beautiful so of course we headed outside to enjoy the weather. On Friday Tyler was home before Chase woke up from his nap, thanks to jury duty, so we were able to head out and enjoy a walk through Central Park.
This was a rare Saturday for us when neither one of us had any major plans and we took full advantage. 1st - Chase requested pancakes for breakfast, and since he hasn't been eating breakfast, we decided to head out to a small diner on the Upper Westside for pancakes. 2nd - I was feeling the need to get out and go somewhere different, so we headed to the Brooklyn Botanical Gardens to check out the Cherry Blossoms. Although we were a week or two early they were still pretty.

I really wanted a family picture in front of the trees however Chase was not cooperating so we ended up with Tyler and I and then pictures of Chase.

3rd - After naps, we headed down to the Upper Eastside to do some shopping for Tyler. All in all we had a pretty prefect day.

While we were walking through the garden we notice these two sitting on a bench and couldn't help but take a picture:

Easter Weekend

2009-04-14T15:17:00.005-04:00

We had a wonderful Easter weekend, minus the rain, attending Easter egg hunts, coloring eggs and spending time we friends. On Saturday we colored eggs, Chase enjoyed it for all of one egg, but hey I had a good time; we then headed out in the rain to attend our wards Easter egg hunt. Chase had a great time and fortunately for me Chase doesn't really like candy so after he was done filling his basket, we were able to leave the all the goods there. On Sunday we invited a bunch of friends over for dinner, we had a wonderful meal and great conversations.

The nursery room was filled with candy and eggs for the little ones, that way they didn't have to compete with the older kids. Chase loved putting the candy in his bucket and then dumping it out and doing all over again.

Sunglasses from the Easter bunny

Examining the eggs, Chase had a great time finding all the eggs the Easter bunny left for him.

Central Park Easter Egg Hunt

2009-04-06T21:28:00.006-04:00

On Saturday we headed out to Central Park for their annual Easter Egg Hunt, although it was a little on the cold side we managed to "find" plenty of eggs.

The kids were divided into 2 age groups, 3 and under and 4 and up. For the little ones, they more or less covered the ground with eggs (with "hunts" every 20 minutes).

Our happy hunter

Counting the goods

Ashley, Eliot, Chase and I

You would never know that both boys were less then thrilled to be there.

Walking through the park...

2009-03-27T16:24:00.003-04:00

Today we were out enjoying the beautiful weather, before the rain comes, I couldn't help but take a picture of the boys. It was just to cute!!!

Spending time in Utah

2009-03-23T20:58:00.006-04:00

My youngest brother Matt just left for his mission, he will be serving in Catania, Italy. Chase and I were able head out to Utah to spend some time with him before he left. We wish him the very best. I can't believe my baby brother is old enough to serve the Lord, he has a very strong testimony and I know he will touch many lives in the coming two years.

Entering the MTC

Matt and Chase

Matt and Garrett

I have a great time watching Chase play with ALL his cousins (aunts and uncles) he is getting so big and independent.

Chase and Micah playing in grandpa's sandbox

Steph and Chase out on the swings

He loved the sandbox

The Monday before Matt left we all went bowling, all the little kids had a great time, at least for the first 5 frames.

Chase loved bowling, especially watching the ball hit the pins

Lisa and Taylor

Cyd and Hailey

Steven and Kristen and their kids flew in from IL to surprised Matt and the rest of us, for his farewell. Although, it was a short trip it was great to see them. Sunday afternoon after all the company left, I found Auston, and Hailey right behind him, at the front door standing on his tippy toes trying to open the door. After several attempts he finally manage to get it open, he was ao proud of himself.

Goodbye to the Adams...

2009-03-21T20:43:00.006-04:00

Recently our good friends, the Adams moved to Ohio, we wish them the very best. We will miss you, but thankfully for blogging (and the phone) we can keep in touch.

Morgan, Eliot and Chase have been the best of friends, the playgrounds just won't be the same without Morgan.

Martha

2009-02-26T15:12:00.005-05:00

Earlier this week, I attended a taping of the Martha Stewart show, which will be on tomorrow (Friday, Feb. 27), with group of friends. Although the show was a tad on the boring side, sorry I'm just not a huge gardner or fish lover, we still had a great time.

For additional pictures see here and here. For highlights from the show check out Martha Stewart online after the show tomorrow afternoon.

Family Pictures

2009-02-09T20:31:00.003-05:00

Family Picture Winter 2008

Brothers and Sisters

Family Picture Spring 2006

We will survive

2009-02-06T21:31:00.005-05:00

As many of you know, it's been freezing the past couple of weeks and I was beginning to wonder how I would survive the remaining months of winter. Well, thanks to a couple of days in the high 40's and a free night at the Children's Museum of Manhattan, I'm hopefully we'll make it.

A couple week's ago, it was warm enough to stop by the playground for a few minutes, and yes, Chase took his coat off but only for a short while.

Tonight we took advantage of the Children's Museum of Manhattan's free night (the 1st Friday of every month from 5-8 pm). Chase LOVED it, his favorite part was the "store", he loved scanning the food, putting it in the basket and doing it all over again.

Incase you are wondering what is different about Chase, he got a hair cut this past week and although it's not exactly what I wanted, I can't believe how much older he looks. Tyler was very sad to see the butchered hair...thank goodness hair grows.

Favorite Christmas Pictures and Skiing

2009-01-15T21:42:00.009-05:00

Chase opening up a A train subway car

He was so excited, it was by far the most played with toy of the morning.

Happy little Chase

Hailey, she's 15 months

For Christmas we made a quilt which represented my parents, my sister's did a great job putting it together and my parents loved it.
For Christmas Cara, my sister-in-law, made the little girls the cutest tutus. Hailey, Taylor and Emma put them on and just started dancing around just like little ballerinas.

Anyone up for skiing?

On Christmas it snowed most of the day, so naturally we as skiers wake up earlier the next morning and head out for first tracks...well that was the intent of the day for Tyler, Erin (brother-in-law) and Matt (brother). However the canyons were closed for avalanche control until close to noon. So they stopped by Mickey D's for breakfast and waited for the all clear. On the way up Little Cottonwood Canyon the heater in my brother-in-laws stopped working and by the time they reached Alta the temperature was -2 degrees.

Ski Day #2 - Park City

The next ski day was beautiful...

First and last day of the ski season for me

Lisa sporting her new gear and Hayes

Stephanie and Spencer

Mom and Dad
Matt

Cyd and Erin

2009-01-08T14:55:00.005-05:00

We are so excited and can't wait to meet our little princess...in May of course

Christmas Fun

2009-01-06T14:55:00.007-05:00

1 tree + presents for 29 people = just a little chaos but a whole lot of fun

It was great to be home for the Holidays, we had a great time and a wonderful Christmas. It stared with breakfast with Santa, and since there are so many of us (29 and counting), we hold our very own breakfast at a local restaurant. We sing songs and wait for Santa to arrive, each one of the little kids get to sit on Santa's lap and are give a small present.

Grandma and Grandpa with all but two of the grandkids

Chase loves the computer, he would walk over sit in the chair and say "Pablo" (from the Backyardigans) over and over again until someone would come over and help him. It was a good thing that all of his cousins can navigate the internet and love to play on nickjr.com and playhousedisney.com so mom could have a break. The picture above is Ryan, Ethan and Chase.

For Christmas we took the grandkids down to "Color me Mine" in Provo and had them paint coasters for grandma and grandpa. It was a little crazy with 6 kids under 8 and each one wanting to paint by themselves but they turned out great.

One night my dad watched Chase so my mom and I could go to a movie, when I came home my dad said Chase went down fine. Note: we had major sleep issues in UT i.e. not sleeping. I headed up stairs to check on him and found him sound asleep in the middle of the hallway.

One of my families many Christmas traditions is we all gather together (including aunts, uncles, and cousins) on Christmas eve for soup, caroling and the reenactment of the Nativity story. It doesn't matter how old or young you are everyone participates. Thanks to my Aunt Suzy being primary president for the past four years (she was just released a few months ago) we have actual costumes and not just bathrobes, sheets and scarves.

Mary and Joseph (Sami and Ryan)

Angels (Steph, Audrey and Lisa)

The cow (Tyler and Chase)

The Wise Men (Scott, Ethan, Matt and Gonz) - best in show, if I don't say so.

Taylor, me and Chase just chillin' on Christmas Eve

Sledding:

Chase just can't wait his turn...

Tyler, Chase and Oda
Walking back up the hill
Ryan - he could have stayed out all night
Steve and Audrey

It's been along time since my parents have had this much snow in their front yard. It reminded my brothers and sisters of the time when we would go caroling and deliver neighbor gifts on our snowmobile. It was great to have so much snow - not so much fun to drive in but still fun.

More Christmas pictures to come...

Exciting News and Holiday Greetings

2009-01-01T16:57:00.009-05:00

South Seaport Tree

We started the Holiday Season off with our feet running in November and are finally home and taking a breather for the first time in six weeks. We kicked off the season with three weeks of visitors starting with Tyler's family for Thanksgiving, then my Aunt Suzy and her daughter Deni for a weekend, and ending with my sisters and husbands and a few friends.

Before I get to the highlights and Christmas, there are a few big announcement that I have been meaning to share:

#1 Number two is in the oven and Chase will joins the ranks of BIG BROTHER on May 26

Training started with cousin Soren over Thanksgiving

#2 My younger brother Matt received his mission call to Catania, Italy (March 11th)

#3 Cara, my sister-in-law is expecting child #5 in July

Ok now back to the highlights...

- Museum of Natural History (warning if you attend with Chase he is not a stop and look kind of kid, he prefers to look on the go)

- Thanksgiving balloons

- Thanksgiving Day Parade

- Rockefeller tree

- Holiday windows (Macy's, Bloomingdales, Saks)

- Trains inside Grand Central and Citigroup

- Amy Ruth's (Chicken and Waffles anyone)

- Shrek the Musical

- South Seaport tree lighting

- Levains Bakery (3x and yes I ate them and yes it gave me heartburn) note: I only get heartburn when I'm pregnant and sugar does the trick

- Lots of good food

- and let's not forget the SHOPPING

South Seaport

Thanksgiving balloons

back row - Tyler, Minde, Linda, Ryan and Melissa

Front row- Chase, Keira and Soren

Chase and Keira working on Thanksgiving crafts before dinner
Waiting to see Santa at Macy's Santa Land
Still waiting...we saw Santa and only had a mild break down
Chase and mom - trains at Citigroup
Chase - trains Grand Central
Rockefeller

One last note on this post, after all the visitors left we had two days before Chase and I flew out to UT and let's just say he became really, really sick if you can't tell from the picture. On Monday he spiked a fever of a 103 hardly slept, I gave him some Tylenol and Mortin and decided if he woke up the next morning I would call the doctor. He woke up and his fever had come down, we ran a few errands, headed home to put Chase down for a nap, an hour later he woke up with a fever of 103.6, I called the doctor at 3:30 explained that I was flying out at 7 the next morning and saw the doctor at 4:45. He was put on antibiotics and for the next week wouldn't leave my side.

To Go Along With The Cowboy

2008-11-10T15:36:00.004-05:00

In preparation for Halloween and Chase being a cowboy, while in Utah, we tried to take him on a horse back ride and this is how it went.

At least he liked his costume.

Better late then never

2008-11-10T14:30:00.003-05:00

Our Little Cowboy ---

Here are a few pictures from our ward Halloween - we went out on Halloween but left the battery to the camera at home.

The cowboy and Pink Lady (Harper)

Utah - from 38 to 75 degrees

2008-10-29T15:08:00.008-04:00

Chase and I recently spent about 10 days in Utah visiting family and celebrating his 2nd birthday. When we arrived it was freezing and then the snow come...

As a new Halloween tradition all the girls in the family attend "Witchapalooz" at Gardner Village dressed in witches hats. The village is decorated with all different styles of witch and tons a cute shops. The best part of the evening, besides hanging out with all the girls, was watch my little niece Emma dance through out the entire performance, I wish I had her energy.

Emma, Addie, Morgan and Grandma

Lisa and Emma

The corn maze

Taylor, Chase, Ryan and Abbie

Ryan and Chase

Morgan and Emma

Hailey, Ryan, Ethan, Garrett, Micah and Abbie

Fall is in full swing...

2008-10-26T14:07:00.004-04:00

I can't believe October is almost over, where does the time go? The older I get the quicker time seems to fly by, I remember the days when summer would never end and the Holidays seemed so far away. Well Halloween in on Friday and Christmas is only 60 days away, that's right 60 days and counting, I better start a list and start checking it twice. Wait a minute there's another Holiday in there, isn't there??? Oh yes, Thanksgiving is coming and I have already started to plan the big day. This year Tyler's parents and his brother and family will be coming into town which means Tyler and I will be hosting Thanksgiving dinner, we very excited to have them.

In the last six weeks we have been to Michigan, The Poconos, The Great Jack O'Lantern Blaze, and Utah enjoy the pictures.

Michigan.

Chase love's playing on the computer, especially with Papa

Chase and Keira pushing their strollers

Tyler's family made arraignments in order for all of us to take a bike ride, we had a great time and as you can tell Chase was tuckered out.

Poconos.

We left our camera home but you can enjoy pictures here, here, here, and here.

Thanks to the Gardner's for a great weekend.

The Great Jack O'Lantern Blaze.

Thanks to our good friend Ashley, Chase and I were able to accompany her and her son Eliot to the Blaze this year. It's amazing what they can do with a pumpkin, giving I can barely carve two eyes a nose and a mouth. If you get the chances you should go, it's absolutely worth it. Pictures don't exactly turn out well but here are a few that happened by chances.

Me, Chase, Ashley and Eliot

I figured I'd wait and blog about Utah later this week, ok no promises but I'll try.

One last thing, Tyler, Chase and I would like welcome the newest members to Christensen family. Lleyton Scott was born on September 16th (I know we are a little late but welcome), and Soren Ryder was born on September 29th.

Also, Congratulation to Bailey who was baptized on Sunday, we are very proud of you.

The end of summer

2008-09-30T15:00:00.003-04:00

Here are a few highlights of the last month or so...

Chase and Morgan enjoying each other stroller's

Enjoying Park Ave without the traffic.

The Young Women in our ward tied a quilt for our YW's President, she had a little baby girl.

Eliot, Morgan and Chase enjoyed free swimming lesson at the public pool.

Labor Day weekend with family.

2008-09-30T14:40:00.003-04:00

Tyler's Broken Hand

Tyler, the day after he had a procedure done on his hand, he ended up with two pins to keep is pinkie in place. The foam cast helped to keep is hand elevated.

A couple weeks into it, looking good.

Chase leaving his mark before the cast came off.

ok, ok, here is Hawaii, part 2

2008-09-05T12:45:00.005-04:00

I know, I know its been a while since I posted and here is the long over due Hawaii, part 2.

We started out in Oahu for three days and then spent 5 days on beautiful Kauai. Some of the highlights were jumping on a rope swing over a waterfall, kayaking up a river to a secret waterfall and taking a catamaran and snorkeling on the Napali Coast and last but not least hanging out on the beach with all 17 of us. Yes, we really are our own travel group (29 of us when we travel with kids).

In traveling with so many people you are bound to have a few mishap's and we definitely had our fair share, canceled and delayed flights, swimming with cell phones and best of all a broken hand. As many of you know, Tyler broke his hand the first day we were in Kauai while jumping off the rope swing. We ended up in the emergency where he was put in a splint and sling for the rest of the trip. Although it limited what he could do, he was a true champ and a great sport, thank you sweetie, I know it wasn't easy.

The best part of the trip was simply spending time with my family. I feel very fortunate to have great relationships with each one of my brothers and sisters and my parents. We are a family that may not always agree but one thing is for sure we have a great time together and I love them very much.

Tyler and Dave (brother) trying out new swim wear

Front (L-R) Spencer, Matt, Dave, Hayes, Lisa, Mom, Cyd, Cara, Stephanie; in front Erin and me

Tyler and I at Hanauma Bay

All the ladies at the "Grand Canyon of the Pacific"

The kayaking trip, as you can see Tyler was working really hard.

Hayes and Lisa
Hiking to the waterfall
The Napali Coast, was absolutely beautiful I loved every part of.
Matt, Mom and Dad Napali Coast

My older sister created a short video of our time in Hawaii for my parents, you can see us jumping off the rope swing if you choose to watch, click here.

Upcoming blogs, broken hand cont., moving to a bigger place and the end of summer.

Hawaii, part 1

2008-08-11T14:09:00.010-04:00

Tyler and I along with my brothers, sisters, their spouses and my parents spent a week in Hawaii without the children, what could be better? Thanks to wonderful in-laws who were willing to watch Chase we were able to enjoy a true vacation. In order to keep the post short I will try and blog about Hawaii over the next week or so. I decided to start with the scenic pictures first.

Chase spent about 10 days in MI with Tyler's parent's, Uncle Ryan, Aunt Melissa and cousin Keira, he had a great time. You can see pictures here and here and while in MI Nana and Melissa decided to have Keira and Chase's pictures taken you can see them here.

July 4th with Nana and Papa

2008-07-09T12:35:00.005-04:00

We celebrated Tyler's birthday and the 4th of July with his parents who came in from MI. Although they have been to the city 7 times in the last three years we still managed to find new and different places to see and eat. Some of the highlights: Yankees Game, Brooklyn Bridge, manmade Waterfalls, Mary Poppins and Fireworks on the FDR (in the rain of course).

Chase enjoying ice cream from the Brooklyn Ice Cream Factory

Waiting for the Fireworks on the FDR

For the second year in a row we waited for the 4th of July fireworks in the rain, thankfully it let up before they began. Let's pray for good weather next year, as I'm not sure I can drag everyone out for a third year in the rain.

Thanks Nana and Papa for a great weekend. See you in a couple weeks.

Youth Conference - The Amazing Grace

2008-07-02T13:57:00.004-04:00

From Stomp

Last weekend I had the pleasure of attending our Stake's Youth Conference, we spent 2 and a half days exploring downtown Manhattan. The theme was "The Amazing Grace" taken from John 15, youth were encouraged to find Grace in the City which they live. Over the course of youth conference, I witnessed the youth give food and water to the homeless, pick up trash, hold doors open, say please and thank you and offer a helping hand, it was amazing to watch each one find grace in their own way. I even noticed it in myself the last couple of days as I'm a little more willing to help others out. A big thank you to everyone who helped make youth conference a success, I know my girls had a great time and are still talking about it.

to Subway rides

the Today Show

Brooklyn Bridge

and Chinatown

Inwood to Battery Park and somewhere in between

2008-06-24T12:21:00.006-04:00

Last week started out fairly mellow, visiting local parks and playgrounds, staying close to home; so needless to say by the end of the week I was itching to get out. Friday morning we headed up to Fort Tryon Park and Dyckman Farm. Fort Tryon Park was beautiful, the view of the Hudson along the flowers and trees in full bloom, for a moment I forgot I was in NYC. There are certain places in Central Park, Inwood, Riverside and others that allow you to block out the craziness of the busy city. It's wonder how you can be in the middle of Central Park and not see a skyscraper or hear the horn of a passing car, still after three years and countless visits to the park it still amazes me. What would we do without Central Park? Where would Chase and I spend our days?

One would think that after a visit to the Northern part of Manhattan, my fix for getting out would be filled, but you would be wrong. After Chase's nap and some searching on line, I decided to head downtown in hopes that Tyler would actually get off work in time for a free harbor cruise, part of the River to River festival. I ended up getting off the wrong subway stop and missed the cruise. However, Chase and I met up with Tyler and walked through Battery City Park along the Hudson river with views of the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island and New Jersey. It was a prefect night for a walk.

Saturday morning I was still itching to get out, so when Chase woke up earlier than normal, we decided to head down and walk cross the Williamsburg Bridge. Later that afternoon we headed down to Lincoln Square to take advantage of the 850 free concerts happening all over the NYC to kick off Summer. Jazz at Lincoln Center and the Philharmonic Principle Brass, were playing, we had a great time, thanks Cody, Beth, Morgan, Ashley and Eliot for joining us. Here are some fun/artistic pictures Tyler took of the day's events.

2008-06-17T15:28:00.005-04:00

Happy Father's Day

Do you ever have one of those week's you just can't wait to be over? Well, last week was that week, we still managed to get out and continue with our summer of no regrets even with an unhappy child. I'm not sure why Chase wasn't happy, but it was a really tough week, and after a few days . . . mom's patience began to wear. It didn't seem to matter what we did, or where we went, he just wasn't happy. We are happy to say . . . we are off to a much better start this week.

Last week we took advantage of "Pay what you wish" at the Bronx Zoo, I wish I could say Chase enjoyed it,however he wasn't feelin' it. We did manage to see the Gorilla Exhibit, which I really enjoyed, they are truly fascinating to watch.

Morgan, Eliot, Chase and Bella

Tyler and I had a date night (kind of) we were able to get tickets to Death Cab For Cutie at an outside venue in Brooklyn, McCarren Park Pool. We arrived just after they started playing, man I forgot how much I like their music, anyway about an hour-and-half into the show they suddenly stopped playing and said good night. The audience was a little or lot stunned, some guy gets on the stage and tells us that the show's over due to incoming weather and to get home safe. About the same time a huge gust of wind picks up, and everyone takes off running to the subway. We some how managed to miss the down pour while on our way home - however we were covered in dust. Here's a clip from the show...

Thursday we visited the Farmers Market and then headed down to Madison Square Park for the kids summer concert series. Chase danced around for a little bit but we ended up at the playground for most of the concert - we'll attempt to attend a couple more times before it ends.

Chase hanging out with the strollers at Madison Square Park

Friday Chase and I went to lunch with Stephanie L., a past young women, who is leaving the NYC for Nashville and then Canada and hopefully onto Europe after that, she's training in classical and contemporary ballet. Best of Luck Stephanie we had a great time.

A summer with no regrets...

2008-06-11T14:50:00.009-04:00

In talking with a couple of friends we have decided to make this a summer with no regrets. We aren't planning on leaving anytime soon but as you all know you can't also control the unknown, so just incase something does happen we want to make sure we take full advantage of what NYC has to offer in the summer. The summer of no regrets started last week we visited a new playground in Central Park on 100th St. and 5th Ave, Museum Mile Tuesday evening, we saw the Guggenheim and the Cooper-Hewitt Design. We had a great time hanging out and see a bunch of friends wondering 5th Ave - too bad Tyler wasn't able to join us, maybe next year.

"The boys" hanging out in line waiting for the Guggenheim

(thanks Ashley for the picture)

After we went through the Guggenheim, Chase and I stopped to watch the street performers, he loves live Music.

Wednesday night I was fortunate to be able to take the YW to Carnegie Hall to watch the BYU Orchestra perform. We were able to arrive early so the YW could meet and talk with members of the orchestra, it was truly a great experience for all.

Thanks to Tamara and Gayle on Thursday we had a chocolate chip cookie exchange...wow there were some amazing cookies. For pictures see Kiasa's blog

To end the week - we headed out to Jones Beach, we figured since we were car sitting we would take advantage, Thanks Jeff and Shima. We had a great time playing in the sand, not so much in the water. Let's just say Chase didn't love the water or the sand at first. I guess we will have to visit a few more playgrounds with sand.

Amongst all the happiness there is sadness...

2008-06-11T14:31:00.002-04:00

So I was going to blog about how crazy and fun the past week and half have been, which I will do, however in checking out my sister's blog I was overcome with sadness. One of her friends 2 yr old was just diagnosed with leukemia, I can't imagine how hard it would be. My thoughts and prayers will be with them as they travel through this journey. I am grateful for my health and the health of my family.

The much much more in UT

2008-06-03T14:18:00.008-04:00

So in between the weddings and graduations we did manage to have some fun and just hang out with the fam.

My dad, brothers and brother's-in-law all play on a city softball team. Although they are not the best team they do have a great time playing. Chase had a great time chasing all his cousin around the ball park. Good Luck Guys!!! We were also able to watch my nephew play little league ball. Go Ryan!!!

Steve after the game

Morgan, Abbie, Garrett, Emma at the ball park

Grandpa, Hailey, Cyd and Audrey

My brothers - Steve, Scott, Dave and Matt (Hailey)

We also visited the petting zoo at Thanksgiving Point. Chase was able to ride the pony's, pet the goats and feed the chickens. Although Chase enjoyed the pets, he loved the little jail house and dance hall even more.

"Mommy get me off this pony"

Lisa, Emma and Ethan headed on a tracker ride

Mom and Chase

Micah, Chase, Garrett, Ethan and Emma - In Jail

The dance hall

One of the highlights was watching three of the little ones play soccer for the first time. If you have never watch 4 and 5 year olds play soccer, it is a real treat. Some even call it "magnet ball" since all the players follow the ball (all the time). A quick synopsis of game 1 - they play 3 on 3, 4 8 minute quarters. We start the game with 3 players on field, there is one little girl who can actually kick and follow the ball, however after the 1st quarter she fell apart. She was crying and throwing her hands in the arm, yelling "mommy it's to hard" all because the other team was scoring and she couldn't. Garrett one my nephew's has a total melt down and ends up in the car. Emma (my niece) starts out strong, but then she is hot and tired and thirsty. Ethan another nephew only wants to stand by the goal and will not kick ball (I'm sure it has to do with his older brother beginning a goalie) and the last little boy has wondered off to an empty field. In the end we had as many parents on the field as players. The coach of the other time finally had his players all stand still and let each one of your players kick a goal. Needless to say they have improved over the weeks. I just love watching little kids play sports for the first time - I can't wait for Chase to start. (Video to come)

Emma and her attitude

Garrett on the field - "Hooray"

Garrett taking a break - with a smile

3 Weeks in Utah, 2 Wedding, 2 Graduations and much much more...

2008-05-22T15:22:00.006-04:00

Chase and I just spent three weeks in Utah, attending graduations and weddings, celebrating Mother's Day and birthdays, and spending time with family and friends.

My youngest sister and her then fiancée graduated from the University of Utah and married the next day in the Timpanogos Temple. The wedding was beautiful. We are very excited for them.

Spencer and Stephanie

3 Graduates

Matt - Pleasant Grove High; Stephanie - UofU; Steven - BYU

(in the back ground - Spencer UofU, which makes 4 Graduates)

Most of my family

Stephanie and Spencer's Wedding...

Bride and Groom

Bride - Stephanie

Sisters

Matt and little Hailey (she's 7 months)

The reception...

Family picture (nice I know)

Our little "conductor"

Chase was truly mesmerized my the trio - it's the only time he stop running

Cousin Taylor

Chase in a tux - check out how big his vest is...

Wedding #2 Dave and Britten

Congratulations, we wish you the very best.

Britten

Dave and Britten

Chase and Tyler

Family - starting on the left, sister Cyd, Cousin Erin, Uncle Michael, Aunt Suzy

A Beautiful Week

2008-04-24T13:38:00.003-04:00

We have had beautiful weather and have been enjoying the "new" life in the park and around the City.

A Tribute to Rob Whiting

2008-04-11T17:01:00.002-04:00

This pass week one of my cousins' passed away, he was 53 years young. My sister was asked to create a slideshow of his life for the funeral, she did a great job. Rob Whiting you will be missed we love you.

Washington DC

2008-04-10T13:33:00.003-04:00

This last weekend we headed down to Washington DC to meet up with my parents and check out the cherry blossoms. We were also able to see my young brother Steve and his wife Kristen who were checking out law schools in the area. They have since decided on attending the University of Illinois, we are very excited for them.

Thank you Grandma and Grandpa we had a great time.

Spring is in the air

2008-04-10T13:09:00.006-04:00

Chase loves to climb up just about anything - here we are at a playground down on 59th Street.

A couple week ago Chase and I head down to check out the Macy's Flower Show- I loved the windows.

The Cutest Cupcakes

2008-04-03T14:32:00.007-04:00

I don't usually blog about stuff I've seen or read but today I couldn't help it. I turned on the TV and the Martha Stewart show was starting (I don't typical watch it) but the first segment catch my eye. The Cupcake Pops - they are so adorable. I was talking to my sister about Emma's birthday party next week (she is turning 4) and mentioned them to her and she going to make them for her party. I can't wait to see pictures.

SRPING IS IN THE AIR

2008-03-26T12:02:00.000-04:00

The last couple of weeks have been pretty uneventful, Chase was sick, I was sick and Chase is sick again. Although, the temperature is still a little chilly as least the sun has decided to come out. On Saturday we headed over to Morningside Park for a community Easter Egg Hunt, unfortunately we arrived late and missed the "hunt." Chase still had a great time running around the park with his dad.

Earlier that morning Chase was in the bedroom watching Baby Einstein while Tyler and I were getting ready and picking up the house. Tyler went in to check on him and discovered Chase play/eating the destin cream. I couldn't help but laugh.

More pictures of Chase and Tyler walking through the park. I can't believe Chase is almost 18 months - he is getting so big.

Last Friday I invited the young women over to decorate Easter eggs, cookies and cupcakes, we had a great time.

Boston

2008-03-10T14:28:00.000-04:00

Last week Chase I ventured up to Boston for a few days to hang out with my sister and her 7-year old son, Ryan. We had a great time, while my sister was in meetings the boys and I visited the aquarium, walked part of the red line (Freedom Trail) and hang out at the Children's Museum. Chase had a great time hanging out with his cousin - he just laughed at Ryan and loved playing with him. Cyd thanks for inviting us up we really had a great time. We can't wait to see you in a couple weeks. We were also able to meet up with my cousin Mike and his wife Ariane for dinner - it's always great to see family, we had a great time, thanks guys - unfortunately the guy we asked to take a picture didn't actually take one.
Chase admiring the the Jelly Fish

Alligator snapping turtle

Ryan and Chase out side watching the seals

Ryan

Ryan and Chase playing

Future rock climber

and member of the Red Sox

Snow anyone?

2008-02-24T14:01:00.000-05:00

I must admit I love winter however this year has been a disappointment. I haven't been able to ski, with the exception of one time at Christmas and to make matters worse Utah has been getting pounded every since then. My parents have close to 4 ft' of snow in the front yard and last Monday the entire fam went snow shoeing at our cabin - talk about unfair. I don't mind the cold as long as there is snow and this year the city hasn't seen much so needless to say that when we woke up to 6" on Friday I had to take Chase out and play in the snow - we called his friend Eliot and out we went. We bundled them up and headed for the courtyard of your apartment building. I can handle a few more weeks of winter as long as the white stuff will come again however if we don't have snow what's the point of being cold?????

Later that afternoon we decided to pull out the finger paints which lasted all of 2.5 minutes - here is a sample of his work.