The Binns Family

January so far...

2012-01-11T21:41:00.000-07:00

The boys and Daddy studying up on Super Heros.

Annie being bossy, she is pretty good at it.
Brad enjoying the nice weather riding his scooter.

Jack stopping for a sec for a picture.

Bath time!

Go USA!

2011-12-27T21:15:00.001-07:00

We took Uncle Jeff to one of my favorite places to visit with company. The Olympic Training Center. They have a great tour, but it was full, and the next open time was over an hour, so we made our own tour.
Bobsled from the Utah Olympics...and 3 cute kiddos.
Uncle Jeff...taking 1st place.

Rudy's for lunch with Grandma Burt...nothing better!

Christmas Fun!

2011-12-26T20:53:00.000-07:00

Christmas cookie time! Due to most of us being sick during the Christmas baking season we made cookies, but ate our feel and tosses the rest to spare friends our germs. They were good!
Jack woke everyone up at 5:30 Christmas morning screaming because he was sick and going to puke...and yes he sure did a few times, so fun. Then we let the kids open stockings more puke, so back to bed for everyone. We had Church at 9, so we woke up and all got ready for church. Jack was doing a little better so we all went to church. As we were pulling in Jack puke again. So, Dave dropped the rest of us off and took Jack home. My parents and brother meet us at church so at least we had a ride home.

After church we changed and opened presents. We had a very nice day with family and enjoyed being able to attend church on the day we celebrate the birth of our Savior. In the evening we went to my parents for dinner and a few more gifts. I have to say I feel like I was the most spoiled this year...it was fun.

Gingerbread Houses 2011, the results are in:

2011-12-24T00:05:00.002-07:00

Inger came up with the idea for the Up house...it was a great idea and if it had not fallen over would have beat Dave's house.

Dave went a little crazy with the coco crispies, but it was strong...and the winner.

The Larsen's...they were first timers, and promised to step it up next year.

Look Whooo's 2!

2011-12-23T23:41:00.002-07:00

Annie had her 2nd Birthday! We were going to have a little cake and ice cream with family and friends, but Brad and I were both pretty sick so just the family came over. We still had a great time with Annie. We let her open one present at a time during the day, and she was so happy to open a present and play with it for a while.

She is such a sweet girl, she loves being a girl! She loved letting everyone know it was her birthday. Annie loves to play, talk, help mom with everything, and goes crazy when daddy comes home. She also loves her family and friends. We love our Annie Girl!

Student of the Month!

2011-12-23T23:24:00.003-07:00

Brad was chosen to be student of the month in November. He was so excited. His teacher tells me he is so helpful in class, and he really enjoys going to school. The school has a lunch to honor all the students of the month and families are invited. So, we picked up McDonald's and all went to the lunch.
We also took Brad's friend, Katie. She was student of the month in October and took Brad to her lunch.

We also saw Annika at lunch, she was able to stop and say hi for a minute. We are proud of brad and the good kid that he is.

Birthday Boy...he's 4!

2011-12-08T21:11:00.003-07:00

We Celebrated Jack's 4th Birthday when we were in Arizona. I was a bit of a slacker with putting something together since he had a party before we left. But, he did pick out a pumpkin cake from Costco, we sang to him and had a few presents.

Jack brings so much joy to our family (most of the time, lets be honest he can also bring me the most stress too). He is very active and can't stand to in in the house all day. Even on the coldest days he will sneak outside to play. He loves all superheros and Cars 2 right now. He is also loves to play with Annie and is a great big brother to her. He likes to ride his scooter and bike. he is a great eater, and eats all the time. He is square at 40.5 lbs and 40.5" tall. Life would not be the same with out Jackson!

Birth day for Jackson Binns. 11-26-2007

Arizona 2011

2011-12-01T22:21:00.006-07:00

This year for Thanksgiving we went to Arizona to visit Grandma & Grandpa Downey and see Corey who is TDY before they move to Germany. Carrie flew here, then she and I drove to Arizona with the kids. Then Dave flew out a few days later. He had to work and teach his class. Paul, Krynn & Audrey came from Hawaii, and my Parents also flew in. We had such a fin time with our family.

We enjoyed S'mores at Uncle Corey's TDY house in Sierra Vista. He had a nice 3 bedroom house that we all fit perfectly. It is an hour and a half from Tucson, so we did a lot of driving, but it was so fun to stay all together. We sure missed my brother Jeff, he was the only one missing.

Paul, Krynn & I took the kids to Build-A-Bear. Annie went for a birthday party before we left and Brad was begging to go, so they were all excited to make a bear.

Annie and Audrey had so much fun together! They are just too cute for words.

We took a trip to Mesa to visit our friends from college. We took all 7 kids to see the temple. The Mesa temple grounds are huge. They were all set up for Christmas and it was beautiful.

We also went to Tombstone one day. The kids loved all the horses and cowboys. They did not love all the shops we took them in.

We had a little Turkey Bowl with the kiddos before the big feast! It was the Seahawks (Paul & Brad) vs. the Packers (Dave & Jack)...with the cutest cheerleaders ever! Then we had Thanksgiving Dinner with Grandma & Grandpa Downey, their kids (Dickey & Jerry, Paula & Jeff, my parents), grand kids & spouses (Derek & Jolee, Amy & Dave, Carrie & Corey, Christine & Mike, Paul & Krynn, Richard & um...they just got engaged and I can't remember her name), and great-grand kids (Bradley, Jackson, Annie & Audrey).

Jack's birthday, Grandma & Grandpa Downey with their great-grand kids, a few other random pictures I liked from the trip.

Hope everyone also had a great Thanksgiving.

Spiderman, Spiderman

2011-11-20T10:03:00.003-07:00

Jack had a Spider man birthday party before we went to Arizona for Thanksgiving. It was so fun! He had 9 little friends, 2 siblings, 2 grandparents, 2 great-grandparents, 3 cousins, 2 aunts, 1 uncle, mom and dad all to celebrate with him. It was one full house, and he was one happy boy!

Happy 4th Birthday buddy!

Dave took the kids out to play games...we were lucky to have such a nice day in November.

Pinata time!

Visitors

2011-11-17T20:51:00.001-07:00

We were lucky to have Great-Grandpa & Grandma Burt, and Aunt Carrie come visit. We love to have family visit! Next week we will get to see more family in Arizona, we can't wait! Just a side note, do you love Annie's outfit additions...non-matching leg warmers, church shoes, and cousin Abbie and Mallory's key's. She has to put on everything she sees.

Smile

2011-11-09T22:12:00.003-07:00

I can't believe he will be 4 in just a few weeks.

Halloween 2011

2011-11-03T22:13:00.006-06:00

We had a great Halloween this year filled with a lot of parties, candy, and fun! The parties started with Brad's classroom party on Thursday, church party on Friday, Brad's school trunk-or-treat Saturday afternoon, and finally Halloween trick-or-treating on Monday. Through in a retirement party Friday after church, and date night Saturday, it was one busy weekend. As for our soldier, spider-man, and hula girl, they loved every minute of the parties, candy, and fun!

My favorite picture from Halloween is this one of Annie for sure. This was Saturday morning after Annie had dumped all the boys candy into her bag, she then dumped it out and pointed at each piece of candy and said "tandy, tandy, tandy". I think she has a favorite holiday.

Snow

2011-10-26T21:49:00.004-06:00

We had some great snow and even with the freezing temps the kids played outside most of the day. Thankfully it warmed back up and in true Colorado fashion all the snow was gone in 2 days. Looks like Halloween will be nice...can't wait!

Cookies & Pumpkins

2011-10-24T21:28:00.001-06:00

Grandma Shirley came to stay with the girls for a few days, and we got to have lots of fun when she was here. Friday evening we frosted cookies, and then got pumpkins on Saturday...the start of the Halloween fun.

Annie girl + mud

2011-10-14T16:00:00.001-06:00

Aunt Carrie

2011-10-03T15:24:00.002-06:00

The day Grandpa Tom and Grandma Shirley left Aunt Carrie came to visit. She is getting ready to move to Germany, so we are glad she got to come and spend some time with us. We sure will miss her and Uncle Corey!

We had a lot of fun while she was here. Carrie joined us at skate city for Pixie skate. Katie also came with us. Brad and Katie only have school every other Friday, so we still get to go skating sometimes.

She took pictures of some pretty cute kiddos. Why do all my kids chew on their blankets?
We played with Photo Booth on Carrie's iPad. The kids LOVE it!

Carrie also convinced us to do a little kitchen update...it is still very much in progress, hopefully we will finish someday and I can share how it turned out.

Visitors

2011-09-26T21:59:00.003-06:00

Gramdpa Tom and Grandma Shirley came to visit for the weekend. We had a fun time and stayed busy going to Abbey's Soccer game, Air Force Football game, Brad got sick, a few rides in Grandpa's new truck, BBQ and lots of other yummy food.

Hair Cuts

2011-09-23T21:30:00.001-06:00

Usually I cut the kiddos hair, and we have a lot of crying, screaming, and by the end I am about to do the same. So, after a few friends recommended Kiddie Kutters I gave in and took the kids. It was amazing! No crying or screaming, and they actually liked it and even ask to go back. They really loved the color hair spray at the end. I think we will go back!

Day Out With Thomas

2011-09-20T21:06:00.007-06:00

Saturday we took the kids and went to Day Out With Thomas. It was a bit crazy, but the kids had a blast. They loved riding on the train pulled by Thomas.

Scott, Jack, Sir Topham Hatt, Brad, Annie & Dave

Tooting the horn

Annie LOVED the firetruck!

The kiddos in front of Thomas

Baking

2011-09-15T22:04:00.004-06:00

Since the weather has cooled down I have been excited to bake (and cook) again. I made some bread a few days ago while Brad was at school and the little ones were sleeping. Before I could even get it out of the pan Brad had left his mark. He told me that homemade stuff is just better, homemade bread and ice cream top his favorites list.

2011-09-07T14:15:00.003-06:00

The past few weeks have flown by. We had one week for hot, hot, hot weather (well for Colorado). Since we don't have A/C yet, it was awful. I tired not to complain too much about it this summer, but after that week I did. Thankfully since then it has cooled down. And, no more 90's in the next 10 days forecast. Yeah! We are headed for fall, the best time of the year here.

Annie helped me make some cakepops for baby shower. She loves to help, and is a great helper. She is growing up way to fast. She is getting her last few canine teeth, thankfully other then some fun diapers they have not bothered her. She has just figured out how to do a real jump on the trampoline, and it's about the cutest thing ever. She talks up a storm, and if we could understand her, I am sure it would be some interesting conversations. She finally started only taking one nap a day (on most days). She loves bags and purses, and has too much of an opinion of what she wants to wear.

With our cooler weather we had a few pajama days. Well, at least Brad did before he went to school. Which is nice for me because it makes less laundry. He is loving school. This morning he told me he wished he could go all day. I am not sure I am ready for that. But, I am glad he loves school. He gets so excited to have daddy help him with his homework in the evenings. He is a big helper, sometimes a little too much. He loves books and swimming, but will try anything. He likes things to match and so he loves wearing uniforms to school so he can match with his friends. I still can't believe he is 5.

Never to be forgotten Mr. Superhero himself...Jack. He keeps me busy all day, and thinks I need his cuddles all night (at least that's what he tells me when he comes in my bed every night). He is on the trampoline at least half the day, and has started using the net to do handstands. He has also showed us his handstands in the shower...so safe. The other half of the day he is playing some kind of superhero something. The other day he told me he, Superman, just saved a lady from a spider. He loves football and baseball, sometimes soccer. His favorite Wii game is, "fight you off the water" aka sword fight on Wii sports. Just don't beat him, he will cry. He still needs a nap pretty much everyday. I keep trying to go with no naps for him, but by about 5 pm I wonder why. So, when Brad is at school, I actually get some quite time while the others sleep.

Dave has started a new semester of teaching. He still loves it! I started watching a few little boys during the day. We are always busy around here. That is about all that is new around here.

We Survived

2011-08-25T14:20:00.004-06:00

For the first time in our marriage...yes, 7 1/2 years...we went camping. We usually just go for the evening and then go home to sleep. This year we got brave and went for 2 nights. The boys are getting to old for the, "We forgot our tent at home, we better go get it" trick, darn. We went to Jellystone Park in Estes, CO. It was a fun place and the kids loved Yogi Bear. Jack keeps asking when we get to go camping with that bear again.

Estes Park is beautiful! I wish we could have stayed longer to see more sights. We did get to fish, play in the lake (well Brad and Annie did), rented a boat and each of the kids got to drive, and the kids loved riding scooters up and down the hill at our campsite. Annie and her buddy Kyle played in the dirt a lot, and loved every minute of it!

We had a great time with wonderful friends, lots of yummy camping food (thanks to Chef Dan & Ken), and only one night of Annie freaking out and screaming for an hour at 3 am. Good times, right? We may even try again next year.

He Had a Bithday!

2011-08-14T22:30:00.000-06:00

He would be Dave, and he is now 32!

This year I let each of the kids pick something out for him. Annie can't talk so she got him golf balls. Jack has been talking about getting Dave a watch for at least a month. Random that he came up with that, but he was set on it, and picked out a good one. Brad got Dave a white polo, since he did not have one to match on the days Brad wears his to school. Every morning Brad checks to see what color of shirt Dave wears so he can match him.

While at the mall getting Dave's gifts I gave into new hats for the kids. What came over me, I am not sure. But we now have 2 Lightning McQueen hats, and Annie's got a princess hat (funny picture of her, but it was all I have). Dave's is an Oregon Ducks hat. He LOVE'S college football, so this will add to his collection.

Kindergarten

2011-08-04T14:05:00.003-06:00

Today Brad had his first day of Kindergarten. What an exciting day for everyone! He was so excited to take his lunch! He usually does not take it, except today and every other Friday. Brad knows a few girls in his class, and he was happy about that. Dave and I both walked him to his class and off he went. We watched him for a few minutes with some other parents we know. It is so nice that we have good friends with kids in the same class. Neither Dave or I cried. I usually only cry for sad things, so I was able to hold it together. Dave was thrilled to see all the kids in uniforms. All the kids have to wear uniforms for his school. I already love the uniforms! Brad did not tell me much when he got home, I figured that would be the case since that was how preschool was.

Dave mentioned to Brad that he also had a red polo, and Brad asked Dave to wear his too. I think that may have brought a tear to Dave's eye. So, they matched. Pretty cute if you ask me! I guess this the beginning of a lot of exciting years ahead.

We Went Bowling

2011-08-02T22:24:00.003-06:00

...it was fun, but crazy with 6 kids bowling.

Swim Lessons

2011-07-31T22:31:00.005-06:00

Jack & Brad had swimming lessons the past two weeks. Brad did great, and was so sad when they ended. Jack was counting down to the seconds for them to be over. And, to be honest I was too, for him.

Just a few highlights of swimming lessons with Jack:
Day 1, he would not get in the water at all...not even with all my bribes.
Day 2, he would not get in again, then I told him I would throw him in the pool, to his teacher, if he did not at least sit on the side of the pool and put his feet in. I had to sit him down and put his feet in, but he did it...and yes, he even liked it. After Dave got home he told Dave he got in the water because he did not want mom to throw him in the water. Not my best mommy moment, but it worked.
Day 3, major breakdown before swimming (remember that Corey), but we made it, and he even got in the water...and yes, he loved it. But, he would only go with one of the teachers, Miss Katie.
Days 4-7, little breakdowns each morning before swimming. Still would only let Miss Katie take him in the water. In the end, we both survived! And, I think that will be the end of swimming, and maybe all other sports for a while for Jack.

Brad loves the pool, and swimming. He is doing so much better, but still has some work to do to be a real swimmer. He is ready to start again. I told him maybe after a few weeks of school we can see if we have adjusted ok to our new schedule. Thankfully he will school to keep him occupied.

Zoo

2011-07-31T22:09:00.008-06:00

Dave's summer work party was last night at the Zoo. The company rents the Zoo just for employees. So nice! And it was in the evening, so the animals were so fun. We usually go in the morning and all they do is sleep. The kids loved seeing the animals actually move and play.

The giraffes were starving! We got to feed them as much as we wanted, but we are not a feed the animals family, so Dave did all the feeding...and he would have rather not had to.

The carousel was running all night, and the kids loved it. When Annie saw it I am pretty sure she had a flash back to Sea World this summer and her love for the carousel their. Now, the one at our zoo is a little different then at Sea World...older, no belts to hold the kids on, and it's fast. I was not ready when it started, and I almost fell off. But, we were all safe.

I was too far to get a picture of Brad.

Our Newest Skater

2011-07-31T21:44:00.006-06:00

Two weeks ago Friday at Pixie Skate Annie found a friends little girls roller skates abandon, so we let her try them on. She loved it, and went crazy when she had to take them off a few minutes later to leave. This past Friday I let her join the Pixie Skate Class. She is a little young, but she looks 2, right. They had a pajama party, which the kiddos had been looking forward to for weeks. Here is a little video of Annie.

The video is not working tonight, I will have to try again tomorrow...so, here is a cute picture to look at.

Jumping

2011-07-21T21:40:00.005-06:00

Carrie and Corey stopped by on their way to Arizona. We loved having them here, and were sad it was such a short visit. But, we had two fun filled days with them. Dave, Corey, Carrie and I went to the Rockies game Tuesday evening. It was nice have fun with just the four of us. They got the kids a trampoline a few weeks ago, and we did a lot of jumping. We had yummy food, and time to just have fun together.

Jack hiding behind Carrie so he would not get

squirted with the hose.

Carrie, Mom, Annie and Brad jumping...so fun!

Brad and Carrie.

Playing crack the egg.

Independency Day

2011-07-05T22:04:00.002-06:00

We had a fun Independence Day full of friends, family, food, slip n' slide, Popsicles, and fireworks.

Day Surgery

2011-07-01T21:50:00.000-06:00

Today Brad had a little day surgery, nothing major, he was in and out in just a few hours. He was so brave, a little bribery helped at his week moment.

Dave got to take him into the OR and stay until he was asleep. He was so excited to wear the bunny suite again.

Brad in recovery waking up and seeing his IV for the first time. Thankfully they got to take it right out, he was not happy to see it. He is doing great now. It has been hard to keep him down to recover.

I have another one...

2011-07-01T21:33:00.000-06:00

...another sneaky tomato lover!

San Antonio 2011

2011-06-27T20:04:00.004-06:00

We had a great time at the Binns family reunion in San Antonio, Texas. We did what I thought was impossible...drove, in our van, for 15 hours! We survived, and really it was not too bad.

We went to Schlitterbahn water park on Tuesday (sorry no pictures). So fun, but I will have to admit it was hard to see so many amazing water slides and not be able to go on them because you can't take 3 little kiddos on them. Brad was adventurous and went on a tube ride with both Dave and I, at different times. Wednesday we went to Downtown, The Alamo, and the River Walk. Then we went back to our condos to hang out for the evening. Dave got the kiddos moving with Red, Rover, running races, and jumping-jacks. They loved it.

Thursday we hit Sea World. It is so fun and hot. Thankfully they have a water park, and covered shows. Funny story, as we walked into Sea World we were all wearing our reunion t-shirts and a lady came up to Dave and I and said, "Hey, you guys are everywhere, we saw you at the Alamo yesterday." We told her it was a family reunion. She liked the shirts.

We hit a few shows: Azul, Cool Vibrations, and Shamu's One Ocean. My favorite was Cool Vibrations, a water ski show. The kids favorite show was Shamu and favorite ride for Brad and Jack was the Shamu ride, and Annie's was the carousal. She cried, well screamed, after the last ride when she figured out she did not get to go again.

Friday the guys had a home run hitting contest, and I took Annie and Malzy to the most amazing outlets! Then we all met up together and went to Cars 2. Saturday family pictures, and on the road home again.

The kids loved seeing cousins they don't see very much (some even for the first time). Brad would have been happy to not see mom or dad the whole trip. He wanted to be a big kid so bad, and loved to finally have boys to hang out with. We all had a great time!

We love these girls!

2011-06-17T14:50:00.000-06:00

We had Kimrie, Mallorie and Abbey stay a few days with us the past week, and man we sure do love having them. Brad, Jack and Annie love them and I am not gonna lie they keep them so entertained that I feel like I can actually get something done. We also had fun playing Mario Kart Wii. Brad has really been into Mario Kart and pretty much beat us all...even Dave a few times.

Butterfly Garden

2011-06-17T14:29:00.000-06:00

Our Butterfly Garden experience:

Brad got the Butterfly Garden for his Birthday in April. I forgot to order the butterflies for a long time. Finally one day Brad handed me the computer and made me do it right then. We got them. They kinda freaked me out because they were a little gross. We watched them climb to the top, and do their thing. I was too chicken to move them from the container to the actually garden (as was Dave). One day I checked on them and pow...they were Butterflies in the container, that was should not have happened! See below.

So, I had to get them out. I am not afraid to say I was freaked out to open the container knowing they might fly in my face. So, I tried to get Brad and Jack to open it, but they could not get the top off. So, I did the next best thing and got the longest screwdriver I could find to pop the top off. That did not work either. So, I finally just pulled the lid off. Well, it had a paper cover on it, so that was not as bad as I thought. I pulled the paper off, and they did not fly away, I was freaked out for nothing. So, we stuck the screwdriver in the container to get them out. They wrapped their feet right around and hung on. We put them on the patio after the kids got a good look. They finally flew away about an hour later.

Brad is ready to order more. I think I can do it this time...when I remember to order some more.

Summer Begins

2011-06-13T21:31:00.006-06:00

Last week we went shopping for some fun summer toys. The boys picked out a spray toy that you put balls in and they spin down and then pop out the top and balance on the water. It is fun, but we learned a few lessons day one.

These pictures actually captured one of the lessons. Watch where you aim when hitting the ball off the water. The top picture Jack is watching the ball on the water, and you can see Brad's hand getting ready to hit the ball, not thinking about what will happen...

Well, it hit Jack in the face. Oops! He was fine, and they both learned to pay more attention to what they were doing.

They also picked out kick boards (Jack thinks they are surf boards) for the pool, but had to try them out in the tub. We are getting ready to head to Texas for a Binns Family Reunion, and the boys are excited to use them in a real pool. We ended up having some cooler weather over the weekend, so it will be a huge shock next week in Texas with much higher temps. But, I will be happy to leave the wind behind.

Hope you are having a fun summer so far!

This was fun

2011-06-11T14:47:00.003-06:00

I found this tutorial awhile back, and finally go to try it out. I love silhouettes, and have wanted to hang some of the kids, and now I finally know how.

I still need to work getting the curves and add a fun background, but not too bad for the first try. This one is Jack, he was the only one who would stand remotely still to get an okay profile shot. I am going to get better one's this weekend of all the kids so I can get to work on them. I learned a few lessons about taking the pictures, mouth needs to be closed and a solid background is easier to work with. Try it out, and if you do I want to see!

New Patio

2011-06-04T21:00:00.004-06:00

Since we have moved into our house we have wanted to replace the flagstone patio in the back , but Dave and I both had different ideas what to do. I wanted cement, and he wanted, well it changed a few time, but he finally came to my side and 3 1/2 years later it's done...and we love it!

We sold the flagstone on craigslist (I have gotten addicted to selling stuff on craigslist, but I have learned never offer to deliver 520 sq feet of flagstone. Thankfully I have a forgiving husband and brother-in-law). Dave, along with some friends, worked on framing and compacting the dirt. Brad also go to help, and he loved it. He is such a hard worker. Jack (aka monkey) and Annie watched from he house because the dirt compactor was too loud.

This morning bright and early the cement truck and pumper showed up and got to work. The boys loved watching, and I was pretty excited myself.

After a long day of waiting we finally got to walk on the new patio. The boys had races, and talked about playing basketball and riding scooters and bikes in the back on Monday. Annie, sporting her new boots, ran all over. She is always on the go!

Tomorrow we will get to put the grill, benches, and chairs on the patio and enjoy a bbq and outdoor eating with the fam! We are so excited.

Brad's Summer Bedroom

2011-06-01T22:31:00.003-06:00

A tent in the basement = one happy camper!

Brad had been begging for a fort since school got out, so I thought how about the tent. No blankets involved, it will stay together, and it is big enough for all the kiddos but will fit in the basement. Sunday while they were napping Dave and I pulled out the tent and set it up. The boys love it. Brad has slept in it for the past 3 nights. Jack made it about half of last night until he thought he saw a ghost, but as he told me, don't worry mom, it was not really a ghost.

Pre-School Program

2011-05-26T20:38:00.005-06:00

Brad's Pre-School program was on May 18th. They did a 3 little pigs musical. It was very cute, Brad was the Pig who built his house out of bricks. The picture is Brad and a few of the girls in his class, and his teacher. The video is his solo part. He is pretty quiet, so hopefully you can hear him. You will be able to hear Annie, she loved the play was so excited to see Brad!

Pigtails

2011-05-19T20:10:00.000-06:00

Roller Skating

2011-05-16T09:10:00.004-06:00

Brad was invited to a roller skating party last month, he was excited to go, but scared because he had never skated before. So, I thought it would be a good idea for him to try it out first. I found a great little treasure called Pixie Skating, 2-6 year old's only Friday mornings from 9 to 10:30. It was perfect. He had a chance to go skating once before the party. We have gone a few times since, and Brad loves it. Jack...not so much. He just watches. Annie just wishes she were home in bed since I have to wake her up a little early from her nap.

Soccer

2011-05-01T21:44:00.003-06:00

Brad does better, and loves playing soccer. The boys are on the same team, and both have fun, Jack is just a little more dramatic about it. The video is pretty loud, so turn your volume down!

Soccer

2011-05-01T21:30:00.011-06:00

This is how our 3 year old plays soccer...

(at least he is not the only one, check out the goalie in the back).

He did have a good moment...and really it was just a moment.

Easter

2011-05-01T14:16:00.006-06:00

Thankfully the kids had an outdoor egg hunt before Easter, (due to the snow Easter Morning it did not happen). They loved it. Annie LOVES candy and opened her eggs the moment she found them to eat her treats.

Our dyed eggs.

Baskets...in snowman pajamas.

We had a great Easter! I am thankful for the true meaning of Easter and the celebration of the Resurrection of our Savior, Jesus Christ.

Good Morning

2011-04-24T06:12:00.003-06:00

Happy Easter Morning!

I am up extra early this morning starting on desserts and had to capture our Easter morning in Colorado...snow. It almost looks like Christmas, it may even be more snow then we has on Christmas. This is pretty typical on Colorado, lost of snow in the spring. We really need it this year, so I am thankful for it. Spring snow always feels so fresh and new, almost a clean start feeling. A great feeling to have on Easter morning!

Happy, Happy Birthday to Brad!

2011-04-18T22:23:00.003-06:00

Today our number 1 baby boy turned 5, so not a baby anymore. We sure do love Brad and the wonderful boy that he is. He wanted a Batman party, so I did what I could to make it a special day for him. He said he had a great day, and was very thankful in his prayers for his presents, lunch with dad, and the red chicken he wanted for dinner.

When he woke up he found the orange bike he asked for (or what we told him he wanted since he is too big for the one he was using). The added license plate with his name, really made him love it. He had to wait for the rest until just before dinner. He loved the toys, the clothes he did not look twice at, but that is to be expected. Dave is a little nervous about the Butterfly garden, but Brad has wanted one, and I thought it was pretty cool.

The decorations, and cake. We had a fun time with Grandpa & Grandma Burt and Jim, Inger & the girls. Jim had just gotten home from DC where the Air Force Academy received the commander in chief trophy. Here is a video if you want to see it http://www.whitehouse.gov/photos-and-video/video/2011/04/18/2011-commander-chief-trophy-presentation . If you look close Jim is at the 5.02 minute mark, third row back. He said it was pretty cool.

Family Fun

2011-04-17T22:14:00.004-06:00

Last weekend cousin Abbey turned 8 and got baptized. Tom and Shirley came and stayed with us. The kids were so excited to have them here. They got to sleep on the floor in their sleeping bags at the end of Grandpa & Grandma's bed...heaven for a little boy. We had lots of rides in Grandpa's truck, got donuts, and had a Birthday party for the April birthdays (Abbey, Grandpa Tom, and Brad). It was a fun and fast 3 days.

CaN't GeT eNoUgH

2011-04-12T21:54:00.004-06:00

0F tHiS gIrL!

Spring Break

2011-04-03T21:07:00.004-06:00

After two weeks of spring break it's back to pre-school car pool in the morning. Week one we visited family, friends, and lots of food in Utah.

We took our first trip to the Dinosaur Museum with a few of my cousins, and their kiddos. The boys keep asking to go back...to bad it is so far.

Week two, we were back home and played with friends, and even took a trip to the zoo. We have had a nice break, but can't wait to get Brad back to school, he is so excited!

The boys also started soccer on Saturday. I did not want to be the crazy mom taking pictures at the first practice, so I did not even take my camera. Yeah, I was the only one not taking pictures...go figure. Brad did really well, Jack was a little tired, so it did not go to well. The boys are on the same team, and that is going better then I thought it would. This afternoon I heard Brad reminding Jack that he needs to listen to the coach, and when he hears the whistle he needs to sit in the circle. Hopefully next week will go better for Jack.

We also have had some crazy weather the past few days. Saturday was 70, oh so nice. Saturday night damaging winds, it blew down one of our rain gutters (nothing compared to reports on the news of broken windows and blown away cars). Today was warm in the morning, snow and wind the rest of the day. Hopefully the winds will slow down, but we really need some more snow, it has been so dry this winter.

Wordless Wednesday

2011-03-23T21:59:00.001-06:00

Feeling better

2011-03-11T12:51:00.002-07:00

About a month ago I was so happy that no one had gotten sick in our house. It's just that time of the year, and we have had many friends near and far very sick. Well, we got our turn. Little sickies turned into a virus, and then a herpes type 1 outbreak for Brad. He had a lot of cold and canker sores in his mouth along with a fever. It was very painful for him, I know what its like to have just one, but could not imagine as many as he did. The doc told me he will only have the outbreak once that bad, but he is prone to cold sores now. He missed 4 days of pre-school, we were happy to send him back today. Annie & Dave had a cold. I got strep throat, I can't remember being that sick ever, but thanks to nurse Dave I am much better. Jack has stayed well, and hopefully he stays that way.

Brad has wanted me to take a picture of all 3 of them wearing their backpacks. It looks like they are hanging their heads in shame, but they were kicking their feet, so they must have been watching that (I still can't stand those Batman backpacks).

She is such a happy girl!

Hula Girl

2011-03-10T22:59:00.005-07:00

Grandma Burt went to Hawaii for cousin Audrey's 1st Birthday and came home with Annie's new favorite thing...a hula girl outfit. She loves it! Paul & Krynn sent the flower a few months ago, and it is the perfect accessory.

When I was getting Annie ready to take a picture of her all dressed up Jack came in the room and asked if Annie got to go to the beach today. He must have been so busy being Superman he forgot that we live in Colorado, and it's March.

She was trying to get outside and play with Superman in the backyard. Just a little to cold that right now [even Superman only lasted a few minutes].

On a side note...we have got the ponytail down. I put Annie in the sink, she puts all the tooth brushes in her mouth, I get the ponytail in, and it usually makes it all day.

He {hearts} Hot Chocolate

2011-03-03T22:06:00.002-07:00

...and does not love to have his picture taken, but we are working on it.

The Aquarium

2011-02-27T21:15:00.003-07:00

Thursday Dave took the day off and we went to the Denver Aquarium followed by lunch at Cafe Rio. We had a great time! It was nice to get away for a few hours and just have some family time. Jack loved the Ducks. Brad like the mermaid show, and now wants to be a merman. Annie was just happy we let her out of her stroller once.

Sick

2011-02-20T21:34:00.002-07:00

The kiddos are all sick today, just a little cold, hopefully it will pass soon. Annie is the worst, and she will not go to sleep, what she needs the most. The boys have been taking it easy today. They are too funny. Tonight when we were putting them to bed Brad turned to Jack and said, "What time are you going into Mom & Dad's bed." Oh boy! Dave and I both laughed. They still come into our bed EVERY night. I don't even know it until morning time.

These 2 are great buddies!

She is into everything, and can already get past the child proofing.

She did not like it

2011-02-20T21:08:00.003-07:00

I tried Annie's first ponytail today. She did not like it one bit and had it out in minutes. We will have to keep working on it.

Little Loves

2011-02-16T10:32:00.004-07:00

Hope everyone had a good Valentine's day...we sure did.

Our dinner, can't go wrong with $5.00 heart shaped pizza. Dave and I went out to a nice dinner on Saturday...with no kiddos.

I tried to avoid the Pillow Pet craz this Christmas, bad idea. Since then Brad has asked just about everyday if today is the day he gets a Pillow Pet. Well, that day finally came on Valentine's day. Brad got an elephant. He named it George after the elephant that washed our car this past summer at Wild Life Safari.

Jack, our anti-picture, got a duck. This duck was not easy to find, but thanks to Amazon we found one and it got here just in time. Duck's name is Quaky...Jack LOVES ducks.

Annie girl was asleep before I finally got around to taking pictures. She is too cute sleeping with her little Valentine bear. She got shoes not a pillow pet. She LOVES shoes! She has to have them on from the time she gets dressed to the time her pj's go on at night, even during naps. When we pass the shoe section of any store she hold out her hands and screams. I have to say I love it!

Oh what do you do...

2011-02-05T22:01:00.008-07:00

...last week it was 65, and this past week is was FREEZING, -11 and with wind chill it was -40. We stayed home in the nice warm house. I felt really bad on Wednesday when the milk was delivered and it was totally frozen. The poor milk man had to be frozen too. School was out for 2 days, we were hoping Dave would get to stay home, but no.

Here's a little of what we did...

i took pictures of some pretty cute faces

she has since gotten her nails clipped so hopefully no more scratches on her face

poor guy had a low fever for 2 days...he enjoyed his relaxing pajama day

this one got a black eye, or red if you ask him, because he feel off the bunk bed ladder when he should have been sleeping. he also drew on his face, tummy, and knees, a huge no no in our house

played Superman...in his super hero underwear

dressed up...thanks to Annika for Annie's first dress-up

cut off Annie's mullet

while she played in the sink

made cookies...

twice!

and they had Popsicles...Burr

The weather has finally warmed up enough to snow. Tonight we got some nice wet snow, not the icy snow we have had so far this year and sounds like we will have more this week. We may be stuck inside a few more times this week.

The Park...In January

2011-01-28T23:11:00.003-07:00

Today it was 62 degrees! Grandpa Burt invited us to the park and the kiddos could not be happier. It was so nice to be outside in the sun listening to all the kids laugh and play. The sun was shining in their faces on the swings, thus the looking down in the pictures. But, you can see how happy they are.

Brad had pajama day at school and refused to change after. He loves school! He also brought Jack home an Iron Man coloring page from school. Made his day!

Today he was Superman, in his Batman shirt. He asked me all day when we were going to get him a Superman toy. Tonight he ran around in his Superman cape flying from room to room. He is convinced that he will be able to fly when he gets the full costume.

I can not get enough of this girlie! She loves to be outside, so our outing made her day. She screamed when we took her out of her swing and when we finally had to leave. Screaming is her new favorite thing. It must be a girl thing, I don't remember the boys screaming just to scream.

Playing

2011-01-28T22:39:00.002-07:00

Jack and Annie playing while Brad was at pre-school. They are just so cute!

Annie Loves her pretties. She is a girl for sure. She loves to get dressed, LOVES Shoes and purses.

She also loves her dolls. I was cleaning up her room today, left for a second and came back to this. Thankfully she stayed so I could get the camera.

One more milestone

2011-01-28T22:28:00.004-07:00

Today Annie figured out how to go down the stairs all by herself. The past week I have caught Jack helping her down. She would sit down and he would pull her legs as she bopped down the stairs. But, now she can do it alone. Yeah!

Why does this happen?

2011-01-28T22:16:00.002-07:00

This happens all too often at out house. 3 kiddos and no room for mom and dad. I have finally taken a stand and am trying to make sure when one of the boys comes to our bed I take them back to theirs. The problem is most of the time I don't even know when they come it. I just wake up smashed in the middle of them. So, wish me luck trying to get them to sleep in their own beds all night...again.

Late Nights

2011-01-14T13:46:00.007-07:00

These two have had a few late nights lately. But, they were so fun so who could complain.

Annie had a little tumble and got her first bloody nose, you can see it a little in the above picture.

I can't believe Brad will be 5 in just a few months. He is growing up so fast.

Brad caught me on a good moment and I told him he could sleep in his house. He actually slept in it all night.

Jack & the snow

2011-01-09T22:39:00.004-07:00

Our little Jack loves to be outside! We finally got some snow between Christmas and New Years. I got him all bundled up to go have a snowball fight, per his request, but this was as far as he got...the back door. I don't blame him, the snow was blowing due to the high winds...freezing!

We are looking to have another storm tonight, and I hope it happens. I want a snow day! Dave has already had one closure at his office, and if the weather man is right tomorrow could be #2 for Dave and snow day #1 for Brad. Snow, Snow, Snow!

We love Christmas!

2010-12-31T14:39:00.005-07:00

We had a great Christmas this year! I love Christmas, so the kids got spoiled like usual. Grandpa & Grandma Burt and Great-Grandpa & Grandma Lewie all came over to watch the kids open the first round of gifts. Later in the afternoon we whet to G&G Burt's to open more presents and have a yummy dinner. It is nice to split all the fun up. When I was looking back at the pictures from our house. I realized that most of the pictures where of Annie. She loved all the excitement.

Annie was so excited to get some princess sippies in her stocking, now she does not have to take the boys anymore. Brad likes to help everyone open their gifts. Dave got a very cool Packers sweatshirt from Corey. He has already told me he needs more.

Jack got a Bat cave, Joker house, and lots of superheros from Santa, Brad got a firehouse/police station (no picture) from Santa, and Annie got a little kitchen. Santa was so happy bring a kitchen set to the Binns house this year! The boys also got iron Man dress-ups. Jack loves his and tells everyone that he is iron man.

Round 2... Book of Mormon hero's, puzzles, Lego's, walking sticks carved by Great-Grandma, clothes, a Thomas the Train mountain, and a new doll.

Annie got this doll from Aunt Kristi & Cindy. She loved it the moment she opened it! I took the doll to open it, and she screamed the whole time I was taking it out of the package. The second picture is just after she got it back, you can see her poor red face from crying.

Hope you all had a great Christmas too!

and the winner is...

2010-12-20T23:23:00.005-07:00

Jim, Inger & the girls, by a landslide!

We had our 2nd annual gingerbread house making family Christmas party. Oh boy was it fun! Jim, Inger and the girls killed us this year. They pulled out their cake boss tricks to secure their victory. Dave has already informed me we will have a quarterly practice run for next year. And, the new rule is we have to make our own gingerbread. I had better figure out how to do that.

The girls helped decorate once Jim and Inger got their structure up. We bought 2 kits, one for Dave, and one for Brad (which he got some good help from Abbey). Jack help eat the candy off the table, and Annie was a good help cleaning up what fell on the floor.

Birthday Girl!

2010-12-19T21:30:00.003-07:00

Annie Girl turned 1 on the 17th! We finally got to have a pink party. Annie loved it. Dave made us sing to her about 10 times that day...and she could not get enough. We had a little family party with dinner and cake. Annie had 2 rounds of cake. She had her cherry chip cake and then found some chocolate cake and went to town...she like the chocolate one much better!

We sure to love our Annie Girl! She is such a happy girl, and loves to play with her brothers, or anyone who will play with her. She has 6 teeth, is walking, loves to talk, eat, and sleep, and smile!

More Cousins Fun!

2010-12-15T21:09:00.001-07:00

Just a few more pictures of the fun we had with Aunt Krynn & Audrey. The weather was amazing so we went to the park a few times. We made shape (sugar) cookies, Grandpa & Grandma Lewie came to visit from Oregon. Thanks for coming!

Cousins

2010-12-05T22:40:00.003-07:00

My brother's wife, Krynn, and their baby, Audrey, are in town visiting for a week. We are so glad to have them here! Aunt Carrie is begging for pictures, so here are a few from playing at Grandma & Grandpa's house. The kiddos are having so much fun together. Annie and Audrey love to talk to each other...hopefully we can get a video of it.

We have lights!

2010-12-05T22:23:00.002-07:00

After 2 years of no Christmas lights a special thanks goes to Dan and Darren for talking Dave into getting on the roof to put them up this year. They look great!

Do you love the redneck ladder in the truck!

3

2010-12-03T00:01:00.004-07:00

Jack has made it to 3 years old! Some days I wonder how, and with out any broken bones or serious injuries, but he did put the hot glue gun in his mouth today and burned his bottom lip pretty bad. He is our little monkey, as he now calls himself to justify his climbing all over the house. Jack loves baseball! For his birthday from mom and dad he got a little kid pitching machine, helmet, bases, and a new bat. It may be a tie as to who likes the pitching machine more, Jack or Daddy, but it sure is fun. Jack also loves cars, books, Charlie Brown, Batman, shooting guns, and the Lakers (had to add that one just for Dave).

Jack's birthday was the day after Thanksgiving and he really wanted to go golfing. Not sure why, but that was his request. Uncle Jim invited us to go to the Air Force Academy to have a sports day. Jim has good sports connections at the Academy. We did not end up golfing but had a super fun time playing on the gymnastic equipment. Then we played indoor baseball, it was too cold to play outside.

We first went on the balance beam, trampolines, uneven bars, and Dave had a stunning floor routine that I did not get any pictures of. Pretty sure I was laughing to hard from the moment he said, "Hey guys, watch this tumble."

Then we went to another room with the foam pits. This was great! Dave was by far the entertainment of the day. We jumped off the pommel horse into the pit that ate you alive. It was so hard to get out of because it was deep. I had on some knee socks and they were pulled off just trying to get out. We also sung from the bars into the other foam pit, not so hard to get out of that one. Dave also braved the rings, and now has a new respect for gymnasts.

Thankful

2010-11-26T22:57:00.003-07:00

I hope you all had a wonderful Thanksgiving like we did. We were planning to drive to Utah for the holiday, but due to the weather we stayed home. We were all sad, but we are happy to be safe. We had dinner at our house with Jim, Inger, the girls, and my parents. Dave cooked his first Turkey, he takes total credit for it, and it was delicious. Inger and my mom brought most of the food, so it was actually a nice relaxing day for me. Annie was not wanting to nap in her bed, so I got to cuddle her while she napped. I was so happy to have the time to do that. Most days that would not be able to happen. The boys were a sleep too, so it was nice and quite.

Monday Brad's Pre-school class had a feast. Brad was so excited to have us come to school with him. They learned a few songs to sing.

Brad got a little stage fright and ended up hiding behind Ms. Terri. He even told me to recycle his Pilgrim hat and vest. But, I did not, and he finally put them on at home once.

More to come about our weekend. I just need to get all the pictures ready!

A good cleaning

2010-11-18T22:08:00.002-07:00

Today we had our yearly furnace cleaning, and what was cleaned out along with the dust: 1 Cars car, 2 golf balls, and almost a box of crayons. Those were all thanks to Jack. The service man was very happy to tell Jack not to put anything else in the holes of the furnace. Hopefully he will listen to him...he obviously did not listen to me.

First Snow

2010-11-13T22:12:00.003-07:00

We finally had our first snow of the year. This is the first year we have lived in Colorado that we have not had a snow storm in October. We had been having beautiful weather, but it has turned cold. The boys loved making tracks in the snow and throwing snowballs.

Annie was begging to go out too, but she just had to watch from the door this time.

Ready or not winter is here!

She's on the move

2010-11-07T11:07:00.005-07:00

Annie is growing up all to fast. She now has 2 teeth, and working on one more. She loves to be in the middle of everything going on. She is so happy all the time and goes with the flow so well. She is now crawling up the stairs. Not down yet, which is my least favorite time, when they can get up but not down.

She loves to play with toys, and is always taking the boys toys away from them...they do not like that!

Annie is also a great eater...she has started to try and feed herself...she needs to work on that one still.

Fall Break

2010-10-23T22:46:00.007-06:00

Our school district has a 2 week fall break and that past 2 weeks have been it. Brad was out of Pre-school, so we planned some fun activities to fill our time. I signed Brad up for more swim lessons, they will keep going for 3 more weeks. I also found a t-ball clinic at the Downtown YMCA for both of the boys to attend. It was Mon, Wed, and Fri for the the two weeks, and since it was Downtown Dave got to come watch a few times. Today was the last day, and I forgot my camera, but if I can ever figure out how to get the pictures off my phone I will post them.

It was nice to watch the boys learn from Coach, and they really did improve their skills. Jack loves baseball, sports come pretty natural to him. Brad is not as into it, but he did very well. One night we were talking about what sports each of the boys wanted to play, Brad replied, "I just want to be the coach". That is about right, he loves to tell everyone what to do.

We were also invited to join a group of friends to a local farm to pick pumpkins and enjoy the other fun activities.

Looking for worms

Annie has been such a trooper the past 2 weeks...she has had to endure a lot of stroller time.

Brad's Pumpkin

Jack's Pumpkin

Tonight we also had our church Halloween party. It was a blast, as usual. Brad took off on his own, thus most of the pictures are of Jack, I mean Charlie Brown!

Our little flower girl having a breakdown

Harrison and Batman...they were running around all night. On the way home Brad actually said he was tired. For my little 4 year old that is not normal.

Marshmallow ghosts to end the evening.

Now Dave is at a movie, and I am blogging and watching You've Got Mail. It has been forever since I have watched it. Time goes so fast. They still have dial up Internet in the movie...kind of fun to see how times have changed.

Halloween is coming!

2010-10-14T13:51:00.005-06:00

Life has been busy lately. Jack is officially potty trained! Yay. He is doing really well, and loves it. After his first few good days, he had a few bad days, but it got better, and we are 5 days with no accidents. I am calling that done. He is so funny, after he pees he has to tell everyone that it was yellow. Last week he had to go during church and on the way back to the chapel he ran in and yelled to Dave that it in fact was yellow.

We are all excited that Halloween is coming. This year the boys are actually excited to dress up. Brad is going to be Batman, Jack wants to be Charlie Brown, and Annie will be a flower. But for now, she likes to dress up in the boys old costumes.

Monkey girl

Bat girl...she loves Dave to fly her around chasing the boys. They love it too!

We had some friends come over to paint pumpkins. We went to the farmers market last week and got these pumpkins for $1 each. The boys loaded the stroller up. I think we will have to go back and get some more next Monday...join us if you want.

I think they turned out great, and the kids loved it.

1 and 0

2010-10-02T22:53:00.003-06:00

Well, I am not sure why I keep posting on Jack's progress on potty training, but I do. Yesterday, day 3, he had one accident in the morning, and that is all. We even took a trip to the store and he spent the night with Grandma & Grandpa's with no problems. My mom told me he even woke up dry.

Today zero accidents! Jack also had his first public restroom experience at the mall. They had a small potty and he loved that. I sure hope he keeps this up. I know some kids can do well and then revert back. He really loves that he can tell us when he needs to go, and get himself ready to be put on the potty. He has actually been a much happier kid. I am not sure if they are related, but he has only had minor melt-downs the past few days. If he lasts until Monday with no accidents Dave promised him a new bat and ball. He LOVES baseball and is so excited for that. I hope he makes it!

Henrietta

2010-09-30T22:28:00.004-06:00

Today Jack earned Henrietta, how you ask, he pooped in the potty! Today was much better then yesterday. The morning was not looking too good, but it turned around once Jack got the picture that he does not get to wear a diaper or pull-up unless it's bed time.

Someday I will win...

2010-09-29T22:56:00.002-06:00

...but not today, Jack was the clear winner with 4 accidents & 2 successful trips to the potty before he asked for a pull-up (but, it was not until about 7 pm). Hopefully day 2 of potty training madness will go better. I am so ready for this kiddo to be out of diapers. But for now, I need to go wash his undies so we have enough for tomorrow. Just a side note: Jack is very proud that he went twice of the toilet, and that it is yellow...ask him, he'll tell you all about it.

New hats & gloves

2010-09-26T21:30:00.002-06:00

Jack and Annie got new hats and gloves in the mail on Tuesday. Jack's have not left his side since.

He has me put them on him about 10 times a day and when he has them on we have to call him Santa Clause. Ho Ho Ho!

Annie was not too sure about hers, but we put them on Friday night while Kimrie, Mallory, and Abbey were spending the night. She LOVED them! When I took off the gloves to put her in bad she cried, and ended up sleeping with one of them.

What a sweetheart she is.

Visitors

2010-09-24T21:34:00.005-06:00

We have had some fun visitors this month!

First we had Paul, Jeanette, their girls and Ruth come to watch Air Force dominate BYU on the football field. The game was on 911 so they had a very nice pre-game show and Jim was honored during half time for serving in Iraq. We also got to meet one of the Falcons, havoc, during the tailgate party. The kids loved it, and got to pet him...Jack still talks about touching the falcon.

Next we had one of Dave's college roommates and his family come to stay for a few days. VonTana, as they call themselves came to check out the area while Tana is on Maternity leave. They have a sweet new baby girl, Zoey. It was so fun to just sit and hold her. I love new babies! I feel bad to not have any other pictures. We all went to the Olympic Training Center and park one day and I forgot my camera. You will have to check VonTana's blog to see if they post any of the pictures they took.

Then Aunt Carrie came to visit. We had a fun time hanging out with her, and she helped out a ton! One day we went to The North Pole. The kids loved it, minus when we took them on the tilt-o-whirl, and the spaceship swing. Forgetful as I am my camera was once again left at home, and i don't have any pictures of Aunt Carrie with the kids. But, I am sure she will never forget her visit. I know the boys sure won't.

It's here!

2010-09-23T22:18:00.002-06:00

Tooth #1

She has had it for a few days, so I thought I better post it before she gets anymore. Aunt Carrie took this cute picture when she was visiting. I will post about that and other visitors when I have some time. I am lacking it lately. Off to fold clothes with my wonderful hubby who has already started.

Mug Shots

2010-09-11T22:49:00.004-06:00

Brad got some fake mustaches for his birthday, and we found them and he Loves them!

Thanks again Aunt Carrie!

Dear Tooth Fairy,

2010-09-02T16:39:00.005-06:00

I know you take teeth away, but can you PLEASE bring Annie's here faster! Her first one is almost in, and it is making both of us crazy!

This is today...not a happy baby!

Yesterday she was happy...I want that baby back!

Grandma Burt's Birthday!

2010-09-01T18:12:00.008-06:00

Tuesday we celebrated Grandma Burt's Birthday. We had melt in your mouth steak, and topped it off with chocolate cake and ice cream. I tried to make a nice layered cake...it was a fiasco, as usual when I try a layered cake. Thankfully Costco came to the rescue!

This girlie LOVES ice cream! She ate all her ice cream, and the cone with no help. She would not let go to save her life.

Making a wish...and letting 2 happy boys blow out the candles.

I guess we have a few ice cream lovers!

oobradleyi4
Bradley had to type his name by his picture. He is sure that 2 o's come before his name, and an i and 4 follow. Whatever...I have tried to tell him they don't but he insists, so I guess he is right...for now.

New Tricks

2010-08-26T23:46:00.002-06:00

Annie has learned how to pull herself up. Ever since she learned to crawl in July she continues looks for new adventures each day. She is very curious and always happy.

Brad and Jack have been working on flips in the back yard. They love to be outside!

August so far...

2010-08-15T22:22:00.005-06:00

How is it that all of a sudden it's the middle of August! Anyone else as shocked as I am? I was hoping that after our busy month of July life would slow down just a little bit...that has not happened yet. But, we do still have time to enjoy the simple things in life, like...

Eating Apples...she loved it!

Trying to take a picture on Sunday before church...how does it always end like this?

Reading, after the last picture, I had to show that Jack can be nice to Annie.

Playing trains in our PJ's!

Going to the Sky Sox baseball game. Jack LOVED it, Brad not so much.

Thanks to Dave's work we got a nice dinner before the game, and watched the game from the Terrace.

Brad's first day of Pre-School was Friday. I got to stay with him, but just talked with the other mom's. We are both excited and ready for Pre-School! I am not a fan of the back pack he picked out, but I let him have the choice. Then I learned that I should have taken him by himself, because we now have two batman back packs. I could not break Jack's heart and not get him one too.

We also celebrated Dave's Birthday yesterday. I failed this year on his party. We went to Denver to Jim'N Nicks for lunch with some friends and my mom, then walked some fun our door shopping. Here are the kiddos playing. Jim, Inger and the girls came over for dinner and Cake. Here is where I failed. I usually have a theme party for him too, but totally forgot this year. The girls were sad. I will have to make up for it big time next year. Also, this was the only picture I took all day. Sorry Dave. I have not been feeling well the past few days, hopefully this head cold will go away soon and I can think straight again.

Visiting Grandpa Tom & Grandma Shirley

2010-08-12T22:06:00.004-06:00

We had such a fun time visiting our family in Utah a few weeks ago...time is going so fast this year, I gotta catch up. Thanks to Grandpa Tom, Grandma Shirley, Paul, Jeanette, Marquessa, Courtney, and Ruth for all the fun we had.

Outdoor fun!

Rodeo Time!

Singing time with Dave...too cute!

Gardner Village...I did not get to shop this year, but I did take my kiddos and Brad's buddy Scott to ride the horses, and pet the animals. Brad and Scott are good friends (they even had the same shirt on, not planned), but Scott's family moved to Utah at the beginning of the summer, so it was fun to see them. We are glad they are moving back to Colorado soon!

We also got to see a few of mine and Dave's cousins, but sorry no pictures. We had fun seeing everyone!

Hair Cuts

2010-08-04T23:51:00.003-06:00

For whatever reason, I have no idea, I have two little boys who loathe to get a hair cut. I mean they scream with I bring up the fact that they need one. The worst is they cry and pretty much go crazy when they get their hair cut. It has become too embarrassing to take them to someone, so I got some tips and good clippers from Inger and have been doing it myself the past few times. Can I tell you it drives me crazy. They will not put the cape on for me, they cry, then the hair gets in their mouth, and they cry more. AHHHH!!!!

When Grandpa Tom was visiting he offered to take the boys to Pepe's, the barber shop he has been going to forever, and even took his sons to. That was the key...they were talking all about going to Pepe's to get a hair cut for the few days after Tom left and we got to Utah. The morning after we got to town Tom, Dave, Shirley, Brad, and Jack took off to Pepe's. They came home with great hair cuts, and pictures prove it...no, screaming, crying, or embarrassment. It just may be worth driving 9.5 hours to get to Utah and then back home to go to Pepe's!

Thanks Grandpa Tom!

Home Run Hitting

2010-08-04T23:18:00.006-06:00

The Binns home run hitting contest has become tradition when all the siblings are together. This time Paul was the winner. I did not get a picture of Jim hitting because I was fixing Dave's head...the pitching machine feel on his head and left a good size gash that needed some bandages. So, Jim's picture is just after he was dethroned as last times winner. The little kiddos got some hits too with a little help from dads. It was a fine time at the ball field!

Binns Weekend

2010-07-19T22:51:00.002-06:00

This past weekend Dave's parents, sister, and brothers were all in town to help Jim and Inger move into their new place. It was a fun, fast weekend. Here are a few pictures...I will have more from the home run hitting contest, but it may take a few days.

Grandpa Tom, Grandma Shirley & Annie

Annie, Tom, Paul, Mike, Jim, Dave, Ruth
Shirley, Mallory, Kimrie, Johnny, Jack, Brad, & Abbey

Fun times after dinner...Grandpa had a great idea, the kiddos loved it.

Aunt Ruth bonding with Annie, Mike taking it easy in the background.

The Downey's

2010-07-11T21:55:00.002-06:00

My Grandma & Grandpa Downey came for a visit this weekend. They came to meet baby Annie for the first time.

Just recently an American Girl store opened in Denver so we took a trip to see it and get Annie her first doll. Wow...that place is quite the store. With a little help Annie picked out the Bitty Baby doll. We started with just the doll and I am sure we will spend plenty more getting accessories for this doll as time goes on. You can see in the background of the picture below, she will need a crib, highchair, stroller, clothes...you name it, they have it.

The boys got some new books on our trip...they love books and being read to.

We had a great time visiting with them...we love you and will miss you! Uncle Jeff is here now, so the fun continues. Next weekend Dave's Brothers, Sister, and Parents will be in town...the boys are in heaven with all the family around.

Happy 4th

2010-07-05T22:32:00.003-06:00

We had a great Independence Day this year. We had a yummy BBQ on Saturday with some friends, Sunday with Grandma & Grandpa, and Monday with Inger and the girls.

The kiddos were all red, white, and blue for church...the usual no one looking at the camera. I am pretty sure Annie is starting to get teeth and all she wanted to do was chew on Brads shoes. She loves to chew on shoes...I really have to watch her so she does not put them in her mouth. Yuck!

Sunday just before leaving to watch the fireworks the storm happened. It was crazy!

Then it stopped, so we loaded up and headed to the AFA, and what do you know...part 2 of the storm came and we turned around. The hail was crazy the first time, and we did not want to have any damage on the van, thankfully we did not. Brad was so sad, he had been waiting all day. We did get to see a few on the way home from inside the van.

Here is Brad in the front seat watching the fireworks. Dave made a comment that we were rednecks for watching fireworks from the car. I told him if we were rednecks we would be home making our own fireworks. Hopefully when we are in Utah for the 24th we will get a real show.

So Big

2010-07-01T06:57:00.004-06:00

Annie has officially moved into her big girl car seat. She has grown out of the infant carrier, which I am not to happy about. None of my kids have made it past 6 months in it, due to size, and this time I am just not ready. She still sleeps in it pretty much every time she gets in it, and it is just so easy when we have to go to the store. Anyway, I was tempted to get one of the bigger ones that allows more weight, but she is so close to the length, and they are so heavy, and much bigger, that I did not.

Her first ride was to the park...I think she likes it. She really likes that she can see better.

She is getting so big, so fast!

Watermelon

2010-06-24T22:34:00.003-06:00

I am pretty sure this is one of the reasons Annie will not eat baby food!

Brad keeps sharing his watermelon.

Who would eat baby food after tasting watermelon? Not me, and not Annie.

First Veggies!

2010-06-24T22:09:00.008-06:00

We picked our first tomatoes last night. They were very good. Last year our tomatoes did not do well at all, so we are excited to have some this year. Gardening in Colorado is hit and miss, but this year is looking pretty good so far. Hopefully the hail will stay away this year. If not I will have to get some covers ready.

Brad loves tomatoes!

Jack and his big cheese smile.

No, that is not blood, we were outside between dinner and baths.

But, with all of his head injuries of late, you might wonder.

Jack and his pumpkin plant

Brad with his pumpkin

Annie girl loves the grass! She is so happy to just sit and watch the boys run crazy while we water the garden at night.

6 Months

2010-06-18T09:58:00.002-06:00

Where has the time gone? My baby girl is 6 months old. Annie can now roll over and sit up. She loves to sit on the floor and play with toys. Her favorite toy is the TV remote. I have tired to give her some baby food, and she does not like it at all. She does like to chew on fruit and baby rice crackers. She also loves her new sunglasses. I would not resist when I saw these at the store. Really, she will leave them on for a log time. She will even wear a hat...something neither of the boys liked. We love our baby Annie, I just wish she would stop growing so fast. She has an ear infection right now and when I took her to the doc she weighed in at 21 lbs. Her official 6 month check up is not until Monday, so I will have more stats then.

Last Ones

2010-06-13T22:10:00.004-06:00

I promise these will be the last pictures I post from Oregon. These are just some fun ones with family.

Annie and Great-Grandpa Lewie. I think she wants to know I am interrupting their play time.

We tried to get a picture of Grandma & Grandpa with the great-grand kids, like I said we tried.

The boys with Aunt Krynn.

Annie, great-grandma, and the coaster. Annie played loved the coasters!

Aunt Carrie, Brad, and Annie. She wanted to play mom while at the coast. I was totally fine that she wanted to carry around our 20 pound Annie Girl.