The Beach

Our kids had just about as much fun at the Beach as they did at the amusement parks. We had a great time watching them jump over waves, make sand castles, and just get plain dirty.

Zoo with Sorenson Crew

Casey, being the kid he is at heart.

We had a great time at the zoo with Cassie, Justin, Kenady, Emry and Trevan. It turned out to be perfect weather, with clouds coming in to cool us off. We love having our friends come to visit!

Aidan's Preschool Graduation 2009

We are so proud of Aidan for doing so well in Preschool during 2009. He had a blast with Ms. Mari and Ms. Emily at Westside Elementary. I am having a hard time believing that Kindergarten is happening in a few short months. Can this really be happening? Mia was there to cheer her brother on during his final program.

Meeting the Characters

I'm doing these updates in installments, it's too hard for me to find enough time to get it all done! Mia's favorite part of Disneyland was getting to hug all her favorite characters. Here's a look at a few of her/our favorites.

Disneyland- Spring Break 2009

Our first day at Disneyland. The whole trip was amazing, and we started it off right, by hitting Peter Pan first and riding the Carousel several times throughout the day. The kids were great and were more excited the more we did.

Aidan developed a true love for roller-coasters and couldn't get enough of Space Mountain and Splash Mountain. He was a lucky guy, and got to go on each ride 2 times each time we went (once with Dad and once with Mom). I enjoyed hearing all about what we were going to get to do during our trek to our seat! Mia was a sport and didn't complain when she wasn't able to go on a ride....I don't know how we lucked out on that one, but it sure made it more enjoyable!

Winter at the Cabin

We've had so much fun at the cabin this winter. The kids have been sledding and, attempted to make a few snowmen. We've loved the beauty of winter and all the snow. We're grateful that we get to use the cabin as frequently as we do. Aidan and Mia are also so lucky to have Grandparents who will play in the snow with them. Thanks mom and dad!

We also love having friends up at the cabin. Mike, Tammy, Victoria and Henry were able to come up for an evening, and the kids had fun going up and down the stairs.

Valentines Cookie Making

We had our cousins Miriam and Ellie over to make Valentines cookies with Grandma. Everyone got an apron, rolling pin and cookie cutters. It was a blast. They loved the eating part best I think, and for next year, I think I'll be hiding the tiny cookie cutters, as I found out that frosting them (all) is quite the messy adventure. Hope you had a great V-day.

Ballroom Reunion

Somehow I got in charge of organizing a Ballroom Reunion this year. We were excited to see those who made it. These are 3 of my favorite people. Ryan, Mia and Ali. It was great to reconnect with them, and made us all a little sad that we aren't dancing like we used to be. Ali is expecting her first and looking so darn cute. Good luck Ali!

Circus 2009

I don't know if you've been to the circus. I have vague impressions that I went once as a child, but no real memories, so this was a new experience for most of us. We were excited to go with our friends Anne and Lauren and our Grandma Shurtz, Aunt Alyson and cousins Miriam and Ellie. We got good seats, and we got to watch lucky spectators take rides on Elephants and Pony's (until we're in a different pay bracket, we will continue to be spectators!). The circus was fun, although once animals were off the floor, Mia was no longer interested. They did amazingly well and I think enjoyed the experience overall (a bit too long in my book!)- not something we'll do frequently, but a nice memory.

The Dinosaur Museam-Thanksgiving Point

We had a very fun January! We got to go to Thanksgiving Point (one of our favorite places) with Grandma Shurtz to see the Dinosaur Museam. We love to see the dinosaurs, and appreciate all the fun activities to keep us occupied. Aidan was sad that we weren't able to see a movie this time, but hopefully soon!

The Zoo in January

We were lucky enough to hit the Zoo in January....something I've never done before. It was free Zoo day, and our neighbors invited us that morning, so we packed a quick lunch and headed out the door. It was scary weather on the drive up, and we were worried it might become a wasted trip, but once we got there the snow calmed down and it was quite beautiful. The kids had a blast getting out and running, and surprisingly, I think the animals were more awake and active than they often are in the summer. We're looking forward to the next free Zoo day, anyone interested?

Christmas Card

In case you missed it (I need your address!). Here was our christmas card that we sent out. Thanks to all of you who kept us on your mailing lists. We love to see you and get updated on your lives!

Snow Cave

Casey was great to help the kids dig a snow cave this year, which has been the fun new hut in the snow. We can't get Mia to quit eating the snow however. We do continue to try to encourage only the purest and "cleanest" snow...but in reality it's a loss.