O MY GOODNESS!
SO I haven't posted in quite sometime. Here is the low down...
Mike & I:
Is the Elders Quorum President. He is almost completed his degree in hopes that when he does his externship he will get a job. He still works at MacKenzie Childs Ltd as a receiving clerk. He works hard. He has joined Herbal Life and we are Senior Consultants. I work 1 full time job and 1 part time job as a paramedic as well as the membership secretary for the Throop Vol Fire Dept. I am getting a new calling in the church. I cant stay stagnate for long. I am hoping to further my education soon after Mike is done with his. But we will see. We have high hopes for the future.
Brycen:
Finishing up 5th grade at Casey Park and plays the Trumpet! He is 4'9 and weighs 149 lbs (you wouldn't know that by looking at him). He is a great big brother. He is testing his limits as a pre-teen but that is to be expected. He loves school and wants to go to Yale or Harvard or BYU (in that order) for police / fire / EMS / cooking. He is dedicated in his studies and likes basketball. He was in karate but has taken a leave from that to work out with Mike and I more. He is a picky eater but knows he has to try it first before he can say he doesn't like it.
Payson:
Starting preschool on the 29th of June at BOCES. He loves school and cannot wait to start. He gets upset when his brother leaves and he cant go. He loves and idolizes his big brother. He is talking all the time and trying to rationalize with us. He loves our animals and has to be outside all the time. He will be in sunbeams starting in September in church. He doesn't like to take naps but once he is down he takes long naps. The weekends are hard on him because our schedule gets messed up. He is very outgoing and will only eat cheese sticks and honey peanut butter sandwiches or yogurt or fruit or mac & cheese or cheese sandwiches. He is extremely picky when it comes to food.
The Cats:
Don't like our new addition. They are finally getting use to the idea that she isn't going away. Princess will be 3 this year and Zora & Prince will be 5 this year. Prince loves being the only male in the house and snuggles with Princess all the time. Zora spends most of her days under our bed and being chased by her brother Prince.
The Dog:
Yes I said it...DOG. We acquired a dog back in April. In march I came home from an exam I helped with and there was this scared and cold spaniel mix on our porch. I brought her into the house and called animal control because she had a collar but no tags. They came and got her; 3 weeks later I get a message from my Aunt telling me that "your dog" is waiting for you. I reminded her she wasn't mine. She was abandoned by her owner and he didn't want to pay the $180 to the city for the fee. I called the shelter and for $80 for vet bill + $20 for licensing she can be ours. She is a gorgeous 8-10 yr old spaniel mix with grey in her mussel and wont leave my side. Her name is FiFi. She has rounded out our family nicely.
Sorry for not posting in a LONG TIME but truthfully I forgot how. I promise monthly updates.
Be safe.
Us
Monday, June 22, 2015
Wednesday, January 8, 2014
Christmas and a Birthday
Christmas 2013:
Christmas was sparse this year but the most important thing, we had each other. My parents were in Utah because my niece got married 12/27/13 in the Draper Temple. We had a 2nd Christmas with them when they got back.
Unfortunately, I had to work both Christmas Eve and Christmas Day nights. Mike took the kids to my parent's house to see Santa get off the Fire Truck. Payson was not happy at all with Santa because of the beards. The funny part of that is, I also was terrified of beards when I was young.
Christmas Day, Brycen was sad because they had to wait til 8am to open the pile of gifts.
Brycen got: DS system (which was a fiasco); DS game; clothes; book and candy
Payson got: toys; clothes and candy
Mike got: utensil holder for our cooking; clothes and candy
Leah got: tea kettle; CD; candle; watch and candy
Overall, it was a fun day. Brycen did turn into the Grinch because his DS wasnt charging or turning on and OF COURSE the game store wasnt open so he had to wait til the next day. The "Grinch" spent some time in his room because of his attitude. We made phone calls to family and relaxed.
New Years Eve and Day I had to work both nights again. But the kids both fell asleep before midnight and Mike called me at midnight so he could go to bed. I then called my parents they were, surprisingly, still awake.
Payson turned 2 on the 6th of January. We had a family party, on the 5th. We got to celebrate with Cheri and Peter and my parents. It was very relaxed with lots of food and good company. He is having a friends party at the bounce house in the Finger Lakes Mall on the 11th. To see the changes he has made in a SHORT 2 years is amazing. Mike wants me to buy pulls ups and start potty training but I am not sure because he is the BABY. Maybe in February ;-)
Have a great day.
Christmas was sparse this year but the most important thing, we had each other. My parents were in Utah because my niece got married 12/27/13 in the Draper Temple. We had a 2nd Christmas with them when they got back.
Unfortunately, I had to work both Christmas Eve and Christmas Day nights. Mike took the kids to my parent's house to see Santa get off the Fire Truck. Payson was not happy at all with Santa because of the beards. The funny part of that is, I also was terrified of beards when I was young.
Christmas Day, Brycen was sad because they had to wait til 8am to open the pile of gifts.
Brycen got: DS system (which was a fiasco); DS game; clothes; book and candy
Payson got: toys; clothes and candy
Mike got: utensil holder for our cooking; clothes and candy
Leah got: tea kettle; CD; candle; watch and candy
Overall, it was a fun day. Brycen did turn into the Grinch because his DS wasnt charging or turning on and OF COURSE the game store wasnt open so he had to wait til the next day. The "Grinch" spent some time in his room because of his attitude. We made phone calls to family and relaxed.
New Years Eve and Day I had to work both nights again. But the kids both fell asleep before midnight and Mike called me at midnight so he could go to bed. I then called my parents they were, surprisingly, still awake.
Payson turned 2 on the 6th of January. We had a family party, on the 5th. We got to celebrate with Cheri and Peter and my parents. It was very relaxed with lots of food and good company. He is having a friends party at the bounce house in the Finger Lakes Mall on the 11th. To see the changes he has made in a SHORT 2 years is amazing. Mike wants me to buy pulls ups and start potty training but I am not sure because he is the BABY. Maybe in February ;-)
Saturday, December 7, 2013
What We've Been Up To!
Well...I see I am NOT a very good blogger. I guess I need to make that a new resolution for 2014.
Since May of 2012; we have been doing alot:
Brycen is in 4th grade now. He is doing great in school His teachers love him. He is almost as tall as me. He loves soccer. He loves school; which we never thought we would ever hear him say. In 3rd grade he had Ms Querns whom he thought was going to be awful but ended up being wonderful. Brycen had counseling between the summer of 2nd and 3rd grade and we all realized that he was just having pure anxiety from the move and the baby and the new school. It all hit him at once. Then at the end of 3rd grade they had NYS tests and he then experienced anxiety. So, he needs to have one on one for the NYS tests to help with his anxiety issues. We never suspected that. He loves to spend as much time as he can with Grandma and Papa. He loves is little brother, even when he gets into his stuff. He is a good helper. He still has a big heart and loves everyone. He still has a hole in his heart but we have been seeing the cardiologist regularly to keep on top of it. Next spring he goes back.
Payson is almost 2. Where did that time go. He has curly hair and ocean blue eyes. He, we think, is going to be our terror. He is very particular when it comes to food and things he wants. He would prefer to be in a dirty diaper than have it changed. He doesn't like baths. He likes to grocery shop as long as his boot and coat come off while in the cart. He loves oreos (the blonde ones). He knows that at check out, they are there and he is allowed to get them for the ride home. He loves his picture taken. His stranger danger isn't as much of a thing now. He still plays shy with those he isn't familiar with but doesn't scream. When he doesn't get his way...watch out. HE SCREAMS bloody mary. I pity the person who tried to kidnap him, because they wont be able to hear. He doesn't talk much but jibbers all the time. He loves his "bass bass" (pacifier). He is very smart, because when you ask him to go get something or throw something away, he doesn't. He loves nursery and seeing his friends.
Mike is 38 and still working at MacKenzie Child, Ltd. He is a counselor in the Priesthood. He would like to re-up his massage but the timing isn't right, at the moment. He works days so he is home with the kids at night. Mike has served in the youth program. His step-mom passed away last May but he was unable to attend her funeral but we sent flowers. His grandma died while we were on vacation in Arizona in 2011. He enjoys family time. He realizes that he needs to work on not raising his voice so much and yelling through the house, when going to that person is much easier and respectful. He sometimes get frustrated with Payson because he doesn't speak very well and trying to figure what is needed. He also gets flustered with Brycen because personality wise, they are identical. We have recently completed a marriage class at church and realized where we have come and what we need to work on. He realized that he needs to not jump to conclusions and to listen more. He wants to go on more dates and more one and one. It has been hard because of the children and with Payson preferring to be home more than being watched away from home. We did find a good sitter that will come to the home.
Leah is 31 and still at TLC ambulance. I was recently released from sunday school and relief society. I am church calling-less. I am currently re-certifying my paramedic card. It has been hard on the family because I have to go to day classes which means someone needs to be at the house for kids. I enjoy working nights; therefore I can be home for the kids and no daycare. I would like to hope it means that same to them. Yes, it is hard on my marriage because, we don't get to see each other as much as we would like. I also get flustered with the kids when I cannot figure out why Payson is screaming at the top of his lungs or why Brycen feels the need not to listen. My fuse gets shorter when I have worked overnight and had a busy night. I do miss being down South. I thoroughly enjoy having my parents close by to help with the kids or to get together. I do miss my family out west and wish financially I could visit them more or they could come back here more. I would love to go back to school, but I have no idea which path I want to go.
Unfortunately, this past Easter, we had to put to rest one of cats. He (Squishie) was always finding Payson's pacifiers and chewing the nipples off and swallowing them. March of 2012 he was lucky because the vet could do the surgery, but this time the ER vet was asking $2500 for the surgery and boarding. We of course didn't have that kind of money. They said we could bring him home and see if it passes but every time he tried to eat or drink he would throw up. We knew he was suffering. We said our good-byes to our sweet, energetic friend. He was laid to rest in our backyard. Every time we look out the kitchen window, we can see where he is.
Now, we have another cat, Little Miss Princess (who lives up to her name). She is a crazy girl. We love her dearly. Our other two cats aren't so sure about her because she won't leave them alone. LOL!
This is our families favorite time of year. We wish all of you a very Merry Christmas and happy 2014. May the new year find you happy, healthy and bright.
Tuesday, May 1, 2012
Thoughts and Things
So...we have had some interesting times at our place. We have had a LOT of car work done; a cat at the vets for surgery; unexpected extra money for inspection.
So, when we moved our one car had a smell to it. Go figure, the first real snow of the season, Mike puts this car in the ditch. So, back to the story, we take the car to the dealership and had LOTS of work needed to be done. So, that was a great way to start our new adventure in a new town. Not to mention, that place messed it up and we had to take it to a local mechanic and get it fixed for more money. HOLY COW.
Then, we also had to take our cats to the vet for annual shots and the littlest one to get neutered. That was all good and well.
Then, the car I drive needed to be inspected and I was thinking that because we sunk all this money into the one car that this will be all set. Oh no, I needed to put brand new tires on the back end of the car in order for it to be cleared for the inspection. What The Heck.
To top it all off...our littlest cat (10 months old) decided that Payson's pacifiers were yummy to eat. He got one lodged in his small intestines and was unable to pass it by throwing up or pooping. So, off to a local vet we went. Big money later...he is resting comfortably and can come home after a one night stay.
This had better be the end of BIG SPENDING. I cannot stand it anymore. Other than all that drama...
I am walking as much as I can with a friend. As well as trying to eat well. Mike is still busy. Brycen loves school and is looking forward to the take your kids to work day (another blog to come) Mike and I have an awesome post Easter surprise for Brycen...he loves WWE; they are coming to town in May...we have tickets for the 3 of us (friend is watching Payson) to go see them (another blog to come)...I hope he will enjoy it. No he has no clue we did this because we would not hear the end of it til the event. Payson is growing leaps and bounds. He is eating cereal morning and night and adding a veggie at night. He is cooing and laughing. It is so fun being a mom and helping them grow into the men they will be.
Sorry for the rant but I just cannot wrap my head around all this stuff anymore. LOL!
So, when we moved our one car had a smell to it. Go figure, the first real snow of the season, Mike puts this car in the ditch. So, back to the story, we take the car to the dealership and had LOTS of work needed to be done. So, that was a great way to start our new adventure in a new town. Not to mention, that place messed it up and we had to take it to a local mechanic and get it fixed for more money. HOLY COW.
Then, we also had to take our cats to the vet for annual shots and the littlest one to get neutered. That was all good and well.
Then, the car I drive needed to be inspected and I was thinking that because we sunk all this money into the one car that this will be all set. Oh no, I needed to put brand new tires on the back end of the car in order for it to be cleared for the inspection. What The Heck.
To top it all off...our littlest cat (10 months old) decided that Payson's pacifiers were yummy to eat. He got one lodged in his small intestines and was unable to pass it by throwing up or pooping. So, off to a local vet we went. Big money later...he is resting comfortably and can come home after a one night stay.
This had better be the end of BIG SPENDING. I cannot stand it anymore. Other than all that drama...
I am walking as much as I can with a friend. As well as trying to eat well. Mike is still busy. Brycen loves school and is looking forward to the take your kids to work day (another blog to come) Mike and I have an awesome post Easter surprise for Brycen...he loves WWE; they are coming to town in May...we have tickets for the 3 of us (friend is watching Payson) to go see them (another blog to come)...I hope he will enjoy it. No he has no clue we did this because we would not hear the end of it til the event. Payson is growing leaps and bounds. He is eating cereal morning and night and adding a veggie at night. He is cooing and laughing. It is so fun being a mom and helping them grow into the men they will be.
Sorry for the rant but I just cannot wrap my head around all this stuff anymore. LOL!
Saturday, April 7, 2012
The Journey Continues
So we moved into the city from the country...an adjustment. Brycen loves his school and the fact that it is a 5 minute car ride / 10 minute walk. We try to walk as much as possible when its nice.
I have started walking a couple times a week with a friend. We walk fast and it gets my blood pumping and sweating. I also got back on Slim Fast shakes and bars to help with the weight loss. It has helped me lose some inches. I am waiting to see the pounds come off. I am working a lot to help get everything caught up again since I went out on disability (doesn't pay much). It is a blast working with the people I do because it makes my time away from my family fun.
Payson is growing leaps and bounds. We started him on rice cereal because he has been downing 6 big cans of formula a week...not cheap. He is laughing and talking more and more and it is a pure joy to watch him grow and become the person he is meant to be. He went to the Zoo for the first time but wasnt too impressed. He is teething too (way fun).
Brycen is learning his limits at home and keeps testing his parents and learns the consequences for his poor choices. So far he has been grounded 4 times (a week each time). He loves going next door and they like having him over (thank goodness). He is a great big brother and a great protector of Payson. He always wants to hold him and love on him. It is such a blessing to have them have a great relationship. He has homework every night, except, fridays or before a vacation. We work on his homework before the television goes on, that can get difficult. Mike helps with the measurement math homework, because I am no good with that, but give me math problems and spelling...we are all good. I make him work out the math problems without a calculator and man that can become an argument and sometimes frustrating. But, we work through it.
Mike, works a little over 40 hrs a week so I can get the over time because I have the higher pay. He does a lot of the housework. He starts back to work in May and will be done with his associates May 2013. We are so ready for him to be done.
We have gotten into our new ward church building and it is so nice to actually have a chapel and cultural hall separate from each other. It is great to have this building that is ours to attend. Everything is on one level and we are the only ward in the stake to have a handicap baptismal font. In May, we are dedicating it; can't wait.
Also, in May, we are going to WWE Raw in Syracuse. Brycen and Mike love watching WWE on Friday nights, so this is a nice event to take my two boys too. Payson is too young to attend, so a babysitter must be hired. Brycen has not been to an event that requires a ticket so this is big for him. A late Easter gift but well worth it.
Farewell for now. Talk with y'all soon.
I have started walking a couple times a week with a friend. We walk fast and it gets my blood pumping and sweating. I also got back on Slim Fast shakes and bars to help with the weight loss. It has helped me lose some inches. I am waiting to see the pounds come off. I am working a lot to help get everything caught up again since I went out on disability (doesn't pay much). It is a blast working with the people I do because it makes my time away from my family fun.
Payson is growing leaps and bounds. We started him on rice cereal because he has been downing 6 big cans of formula a week...not cheap. He is laughing and talking more and more and it is a pure joy to watch him grow and become the person he is meant to be. He went to the Zoo for the first time but wasnt too impressed. He is teething too (way fun).
Brycen is learning his limits at home and keeps testing his parents and learns the consequences for his poor choices. So far he has been grounded 4 times (a week each time). He loves going next door and they like having him over (thank goodness). He is a great big brother and a great protector of Payson. He always wants to hold him and love on him. It is such a blessing to have them have a great relationship. He has homework every night, except, fridays or before a vacation. We work on his homework before the television goes on, that can get difficult. Mike helps with the measurement math homework, because I am no good with that, but give me math problems and spelling...we are all good. I make him work out the math problems without a calculator and man that can become an argument and sometimes frustrating. But, we work through it.
Mike, works a little over 40 hrs a week so I can get the over time because I have the higher pay. He does a lot of the housework. He starts back to work in May and will be done with his associates May 2013. We are so ready for him to be done.
We have gotten into our new ward church building and it is so nice to actually have a chapel and cultural hall separate from each other. It is great to have this building that is ours to attend. Everything is on one level and we are the only ward in the stake to have a handicap baptismal font. In May, we are dedicating it; can't wait.
Also, in May, we are going to WWE Raw in Syracuse. Brycen and Mike love watching WWE on Friday nights, so this is a nice event to take my two boys too. Payson is too young to attend, so a babysitter must be hired. Brycen has not been to an event that requires a ticket so this is big for him. A late Easter gift but well worth it.
Farewell for now. Talk with y'all soon.
Sunday, February 19, 2012
August 2011 - February 2012
I am not good at blogging...
August - December 2011:
We got back from out vacation and we got a 3rd cat (Squishie) from my Supervisor. He is a great addition to our cats. Prince and Squishie wrestle constantly; Prince and Squishie go after Zora all the time; poor Zora doesnt attack anyone but man can she defend herself. In fact she took a bite out of Prince's ear because he wouldnt leave her alone.
Brycen started 2nd grade at Emily Howland Elementary. He loved that school. He is doing great with his hand writing. He loved Mrs. Krause and his speech therapy teacher and meeting with the guidance counselor once a week.
Mike working MacKenzie Childs and Dominos Pizza. He is also in the young men's presidency at church. Nothing else really changed. He worked alot during my maternity leave.
Leah (me) worked ALOT! Finally got cleared to work on my own as a paramedic for the city ambulance. I worked right up to 38 weeks pregnant. Went out on disability (maternity leave) 12/31/11.
August we were pleased to announce my niece had her baby boy early, but he is now very healthy and they are a beautiful family.
Thanksgiving we hosted at our house. It was a great success. My aunt Cheri and her hubby and son came over as well as my parents and my mom's foster mom. We had fun and good food. Christmas we went to my aunt Cheri's house. We always have fun when we get together.
Also, we received the news that we had to vacate our home (we were renting) the day after Christmas. So, we started looking for a place to rent. We knew it would be hard because we have our 3 cats that we were not willing to part with. After all, they are family. We havent had any peace of mind.
January...
On the 6th we were blessed with the birth of our 2nd son via c-section. His name is Payson Stephen Burton Kishpaugh. He weighed in at 8 lbs and 6 ounces and was 20 inches long. He doesnt like diaper changes or baths. He doesnt like to be messed with. If he has food he is happy. He is a great baby. Brycen loves him very much. He wants to hold him ALL the time. He wont change a diaper but he will bathe him. We also signed a lease for our new home. When the little one was 2 weeks old, we were back in the hospital because he had RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus) and were admitted for 3 days. RSV is a cold to bigger people but to babies it is very deadly. He was released with a clean bill of health and was counseled to stay home for a week. Thankfully, my mom stayed in the hospital with us.
February...
WE MOVED! If you want our new address; please let me know. It was a 12 hour process and the two kids went to a sitter's house. The cats were traumatized, but adjusting. Brycen started a new school (Casey Park Elementary) and loves it. I went back to work after 7 weeks off. Mike backed off to a normal schedule at work. AND...the most exciting news...
The LDS church building being built for the Auburn Ward is complete. We hold our first service on the first Sunday in March. This is an achievement that we have been waiting for, for a long time.
I will do better staying in touch.
August - December 2011:
We got back from out vacation and we got a 3rd cat (Squishie) from my Supervisor. He is a great addition to our cats. Prince and Squishie wrestle constantly; Prince and Squishie go after Zora all the time; poor Zora doesnt attack anyone but man can she defend herself. In fact she took a bite out of Prince's ear because he wouldnt leave her alone.
Brycen started 2nd grade at Emily Howland Elementary. He loved that school. He is doing great with his hand writing. He loved Mrs. Krause and his speech therapy teacher and meeting with the guidance counselor once a week.
Mike working MacKenzie Childs and Dominos Pizza. He is also in the young men's presidency at church. Nothing else really changed. He worked alot during my maternity leave.
Leah (me) worked ALOT! Finally got cleared to work on my own as a paramedic for the city ambulance. I worked right up to 38 weeks pregnant. Went out on disability (maternity leave) 12/31/11.
August we were pleased to announce my niece had her baby boy early, but he is now very healthy and they are a beautiful family.
Thanksgiving we hosted at our house. It was a great success. My aunt Cheri and her hubby and son came over as well as my parents and my mom's foster mom. We had fun and good food. Christmas we went to my aunt Cheri's house. We always have fun when we get together.
Also, we received the news that we had to vacate our home (we were renting) the day after Christmas. So, we started looking for a place to rent. We knew it would be hard because we have our 3 cats that we were not willing to part with. After all, they are family. We havent had any peace of mind.
January...
On the 6th we were blessed with the birth of our 2nd son via c-section. His name is Payson Stephen Burton Kishpaugh. He weighed in at 8 lbs and 6 ounces and was 20 inches long. He doesnt like diaper changes or baths. He doesnt like to be messed with. If he has food he is happy. He is a great baby. Brycen loves him very much. He wants to hold him ALL the time. He wont change a diaper but he will bathe him. We also signed a lease for our new home. When the little one was 2 weeks old, we were back in the hospital because he had RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus) and were admitted for 3 days. RSV is a cold to bigger people but to babies it is very deadly. He was released with a clean bill of health and was counseled to stay home for a week. Thankfully, my mom stayed in the hospital with us.
February...
WE MOVED! If you want our new address; please let me know. It was a 12 hour process and the two kids went to a sitter's house. The cats were traumatized, but adjusting. Brycen started a new school (Casey Park Elementary) and loves it. I went back to work after 7 weeks off. Mike backed off to a normal schedule at work. AND...the most exciting news...
The LDS church building being built for the Auburn Ward is complete. We hold our first service on the first Sunday in March. This is an achievement that we have been waiting for, for a long time.
I will do better staying in touch.
Monday, July 11, 2011
Vacation 2011
Hello again...
So much has happened. Brycen graduated 1st grade and is going into 2nd grade at Emily Howland Elementary. I took my paramedic NYS exam. Mike is still doing what mike does.
We left for our whirlwind vacation on Sunday June 26th at 10:00am from Rochester, NY; we got into Chicago, IL at 11ish and was back on a plane at 12:10pm and arrived at Salt Lake City, UT by 3:45pm MST. We flew American Airlines out. We then got our Ford Fusion rental car from Fox Rental and drove to my brother David's house. That is where we stayed while in Utah. Sunday and Monday we hung out with David and his family. Monday we went to the Lindon, UT aquatic center (AKA pool) and had so much fun. We also had a family night with a couple of my nephew's friends. Sunday and Monday, Michelle cooked fabulous meals. We also went and got our shower supplies on Monday. We played Rummie and Cribbage. Man, they are fun games. Michelle's mother was also there visiting from Canada with her dog babe. Sunday we went to bed early do to losing 3 hours in one day. The next day Brycen got up at 5:30a and went down to the playroom to be with his cousins. By monday night, Brycen was exhausted and so we went to bed early. Tuesday David and his family went on a camping trip; and we spent the day with my brother Richard and his family up in Salt Lake (his in-laws). We swam in the pool and hit up the hot tub. My niece's carson, abby, portia and kelsey also came with kelsey's husband wayne and son ryker. It was fun getting cooled down since it was so hot. We also swam with kristi (rich's wife's sister) and reed (his father in-law). We also had a lunch on the patio. Later we played 2000 with rich, laurie (rich's wife); abby (their daughter), and kristi. Brycen was playing the wii. We continued to snack all afternoon. About 6:30 that night Rich had to get home so left to go back to David's house. Wednesday we took showers and then we got up and took a drive to Bridal Vail Falls as well as Squaw Peak. We got breath taking views and pictures. We then proceeded to Orem Park where we met Blanche and Sam (mike's mom and brother) and had lunch. Then by 1ish we were on our 10 hour drive to Arizona.
We arrived in Arizona at 12:30a on thursday. We were staying with Evan, Alicia and Faith (mike's brother; sister in-law and niece). It was nice to sleep in. We had heard that Mike's grandma was in the hospital and not doing well after a major stroke. We went after breakfast to see her and Grand-dad. We got there and met up with mike's uncle dave in the parking lot his aunt lynn; as they were just leaving. When we got up to her room on the 4th floor and mike's uncles john and richard were in the room with grand-dad, because they just got done giving her a priesthood blessing with mike's dad on the phone. Grandma Betty was getting a feeding tube and her meds. She was on a nasal canula and occassionaly opened her eyes. She did smile when people talked into her ear. She did see Brycen and Mike and I when she opened her eyes. We spent a couple hours with her and Grand-dad when we were told she wasnt going to pull out of this. As we left I whispered into her ear, "Grandma you need to get better so you can bake us cookies" and she smiled. We then headed to the Mesquite Aquatic Center (pool) for some cooling off. We spent 2 hours in the water. Then we headed back to Alicia and Evan's house. Friday we went to Pheonix and saw a friend from NY, Asia and her fiance. Then we went back to the house. Saturday, we took showers and then we went back to the hospital to see Grandma one last time, for that was the day they stopped her pacemaker and let nature take over. She was moved from the 4th floor to the 2nd floor. Grand-dad was a wreck. We stayed with him for an hour. Alicia won us free tickets to see Cars 2. After the hospital we went to the movies. Then we headed to Darcine and her family. The funny part of that day was...we noticed we needed an oil change. We called the rental place and they told us where to go. After the oil change we learned that Grandma passed away at 3:30p (1 hour after they stopped the pacemaker). We then went back to the house. Sunday we got up early and ate, then we drove 14 hours to Nevada.
We stopped at the Hoover Dam on our way and took pictures. We arrived at our destination in Nevada at 11:30p. It was a long trip through the desert. We woke up at 8:30a and took showers and then had breakfast with mike's uncle richard, aunt brenda and cousins Karl and Kellen. The 4th of July was the only day we were in Nevada. Mike wanted to show us where he grew up and all the houses he lived in as well as the church bldg he attended. We also stopped at the Reno Temple and took pictures. He said so much has changed since he last visited there. When we got back to Richard's house Kellen was making up some amazing hambergers for grilling. We had a small but yummy cook out. Brycen played with his cousins and planned to take their dog "Sugar" for a walk after dinner. All the boys went to the park to take the dog for a walk. Brenda, Casey and I stayed at the house. That night, MIke and I went into downtown Sparks and watched the holiday fireworks from the Nugget Casino. They were spectacular. The next morning we got up early and started our 10 hour drive to California.
We drove to Oakland Temple and took pictures. We were able to over look the San Francisco Bay but couldnt see the Golden Gate Bridge. We then proceeded to Disney. We arrived after a VERY VERY long drive at Disney Resort at 6:30ish that night. We ate dinner and then hit the bed early.
We got up and headed to the park at 8a went into Tomorrowland and went on: Star Tours; Autopia; Buzz Lightyear; Astro Orbitor and Finding Nemo Submarine. We rode a railrode all around the park. In California Adventure we rode The Hollywood Tower of Terror and then we into Bugs Life and rode: Tuck and Roll Drive 'em Buggies and Flicks Flyers. We went to hotel and chilled by the pool. When it cooler we went back into the main park in Critter Country and did: Splash Mountain; Haunted Mansion; Pirates of the Caribbean. Then we went back to our room and showered and went to the pool area in our pjs and watched the fireworks.
On Thursday, we got up and went to the main park in Fantasy Land and rode: King Arthurs Carrousel; Dumbo the Flying Elephant; Its a Small World; Mad Tea Party. Then we went to Mickey's Toon Town and rode: Roger Rabbit Cartoon Spin. We then ate with Evan, Alicia and Faith in Adventure Land. Mike and Evan went on Indiana Jones Adventure while Alicia and I took the kids to Tarzans Tree House. Evan and his family had to go to their hotel and we continued on and did in Adventure Land: Jungle Cruise and then went back to Frontier Land and did: Big Thunder Ranch and then went back to Mickeys Toon Town and got pictures with Goofy and Mickey as well as: Donald's Boat and the Chipmunk tree House. We then headed back to Tomorrow Land and did: Jedi training and got our souveniors. Then we headed back to Mike's dad's house for the evening. That day was Grandma's funeral but we didnt go.
On Friday, we got up and rode with Mike's dad to Disney (because he knows some cool tricks on not paying for parking) and went to California Adventure Land and rode: Grizzly Run; Redwood Creek Challenge trail; California Soarin'; Tuck and Roll drive 'em buggie; Flicks Flyer and ended with Mickey's Fun Wheel. We then said our goodbyes to Evan and his family. We then went to Cosco and had hotdogs and sodas for lunch. Then a wonderful pork steak dinner.
Saturday we got up and packed the car by 10ish. We said goodbye to Mike's dad. We drove toward the Car Rental place and filled up the car. We returned the car and got a shuttle to the airport. It was a cluster trying to check in but we got to our gate with an hour to spare. We flew United home. We left California at 1:50p and got into Chicago, IL at 7:20p and left there at 9:35p and got into Rochester, NY at 11:50p. We didnt get home til 2a.
It was a fun but tiresome vacation. Glad we went, glad to be home. While I was in Utah, I got a call from my Paramedic instructor that I passed my NYS exam and that I am now a Paramedic for the grand state of New York.
I hope everyone had a great two weeks. Pictures to follow as we need to take them off the memory card. Love you all.
So much has happened. Brycen graduated 1st grade and is going into 2nd grade at Emily Howland Elementary. I took my paramedic NYS exam. Mike is still doing what mike does.
We left for our whirlwind vacation on Sunday June 26th at 10:00am from Rochester, NY; we got into Chicago, IL at 11ish and was back on a plane at 12:10pm and arrived at Salt Lake City, UT by 3:45pm MST. We flew American Airlines out. We then got our Ford Fusion rental car from Fox Rental and drove to my brother David's house. That is where we stayed while in Utah. Sunday and Monday we hung out with David and his family. Monday we went to the Lindon, UT aquatic center (AKA pool) and had so much fun. We also had a family night with a couple of my nephew's friends. Sunday and Monday, Michelle cooked fabulous meals. We also went and got our shower supplies on Monday. We played Rummie and Cribbage. Man, they are fun games. Michelle's mother was also there visiting from Canada with her dog babe. Sunday we went to bed early do to losing 3 hours in one day. The next day Brycen got up at 5:30a and went down to the playroom to be with his cousins. By monday night, Brycen was exhausted and so we went to bed early. Tuesday David and his family went on a camping trip; and we spent the day with my brother Richard and his family up in Salt Lake (his in-laws). We swam in the pool and hit up the hot tub. My niece's carson, abby, portia and kelsey also came with kelsey's husband wayne and son ryker. It was fun getting cooled down since it was so hot. We also swam with kristi (rich's wife's sister) and reed (his father in-law). We also had a lunch on the patio. Later we played 2000 with rich, laurie (rich's wife); abby (their daughter), and kristi. Brycen was playing the wii. We continued to snack all afternoon. About 6:30 that night Rich had to get home so left to go back to David's house. Wednesday we took showers and then we got up and took a drive to Bridal Vail Falls as well as Squaw Peak. We got breath taking views and pictures. We then proceeded to Orem Park where we met Blanche and Sam (mike's mom and brother) and had lunch. Then by 1ish we were on our 10 hour drive to Arizona.
We arrived in Arizona at 12:30a on thursday. We were staying with Evan, Alicia and Faith (mike's brother; sister in-law and niece). It was nice to sleep in. We had heard that Mike's grandma was in the hospital and not doing well after a major stroke. We went after breakfast to see her and Grand-dad. We got there and met up with mike's uncle dave in the parking lot his aunt lynn; as they were just leaving. When we got up to her room on the 4th floor and mike's uncles john and richard were in the room with grand-dad, because they just got done giving her a priesthood blessing with mike's dad on the phone. Grandma Betty was getting a feeding tube and her meds. She was on a nasal canula and occassionaly opened her eyes. She did smile when people talked into her ear. She did see Brycen and Mike and I when she opened her eyes. We spent a couple hours with her and Grand-dad when we were told she wasnt going to pull out of this. As we left I whispered into her ear, "Grandma you need to get better so you can bake us cookies" and she smiled. We then headed to the Mesquite Aquatic Center (pool) for some cooling off. We spent 2 hours in the water. Then we headed back to Alicia and Evan's house. Friday we went to Pheonix and saw a friend from NY, Asia and her fiance. Then we went back to the house. Saturday, we took showers and then we went back to the hospital to see Grandma one last time, for that was the day they stopped her pacemaker and let nature take over. She was moved from the 4th floor to the 2nd floor. Grand-dad was a wreck. We stayed with him for an hour. Alicia won us free tickets to see Cars 2. After the hospital we went to the movies. Then we headed to Darcine and her family. The funny part of that day was...we noticed we needed an oil change. We called the rental place and they told us where to go. After the oil change we learned that Grandma passed away at 3:30p (1 hour after they stopped the pacemaker). We then went back to the house. Sunday we got up early and ate, then we drove 14 hours to Nevada.
We stopped at the Hoover Dam on our way and took pictures. We arrived at our destination in Nevada at 11:30p. It was a long trip through the desert. We woke up at 8:30a and took showers and then had breakfast with mike's uncle richard, aunt brenda and cousins Karl and Kellen. The 4th of July was the only day we were in Nevada. Mike wanted to show us where he grew up and all the houses he lived in as well as the church bldg he attended. We also stopped at the Reno Temple and took pictures. He said so much has changed since he last visited there. When we got back to Richard's house Kellen was making up some amazing hambergers for grilling. We had a small but yummy cook out. Brycen played with his cousins and planned to take their dog "Sugar" for a walk after dinner. All the boys went to the park to take the dog for a walk. Brenda, Casey and I stayed at the house. That night, MIke and I went into downtown Sparks and watched the holiday fireworks from the Nugget Casino. They were spectacular. The next morning we got up early and started our 10 hour drive to California.
We drove to Oakland Temple and took pictures. We were able to over look the San Francisco Bay but couldnt see the Golden Gate Bridge. We then proceeded to Disney. We arrived after a VERY VERY long drive at Disney Resort at 6:30ish that night. We ate dinner and then hit the bed early.
We got up and headed to the park at 8a went into Tomorrowland and went on: Star Tours; Autopia; Buzz Lightyear; Astro Orbitor and Finding Nemo Submarine. We rode a railrode all around the park. In California Adventure we rode The Hollywood Tower of Terror and then we into Bugs Life and rode: Tuck and Roll Drive 'em Buggies and Flicks Flyers. We went to hotel and chilled by the pool. When it cooler we went back into the main park in Critter Country and did: Splash Mountain; Haunted Mansion; Pirates of the Caribbean. Then we went back to our room and showered and went to the pool area in our pjs and watched the fireworks.
On Thursday, we got up and went to the main park in Fantasy Land and rode: King Arthurs Carrousel; Dumbo the Flying Elephant; Its a Small World; Mad Tea Party. Then we went to Mickey's Toon Town and rode: Roger Rabbit Cartoon Spin. We then ate with Evan, Alicia and Faith in Adventure Land. Mike and Evan went on Indiana Jones Adventure while Alicia and I took the kids to Tarzans Tree House. Evan and his family had to go to their hotel and we continued on and did in Adventure Land: Jungle Cruise and then went back to Frontier Land and did: Big Thunder Ranch and then went back to Mickeys Toon Town and got pictures with Goofy and Mickey as well as: Donald's Boat and the Chipmunk tree House. We then headed back to Tomorrow Land and did: Jedi training and got our souveniors. Then we headed back to Mike's dad's house for the evening. That day was Grandma's funeral but we didnt go.
On Friday, we got up and rode with Mike's dad to Disney (because he knows some cool tricks on not paying for parking) and went to California Adventure Land and rode: Grizzly Run; Redwood Creek Challenge trail; California Soarin'; Tuck and Roll drive 'em buggie; Flicks Flyer and ended with Mickey's Fun Wheel. We then said our goodbyes to Evan and his family. We then went to Cosco and had hotdogs and sodas for lunch. Then a wonderful pork steak dinner.
Saturday we got up and packed the car by 10ish. We said goodbye to Mike's dad. We drove toward the Car Rental place and filled up the car. We returned the car and got a shuttle to the airport. It was a cluster trying to check in but we got to our gate with an hour to spare. We flew United home. We left California at 1:50p and got into Chicago, IL at 7:20p and left there at 9:35p and got into Rochester, NY at 11:50p. We didnt get home til 2a.
It was a fun but tiresome vacation. Glad we went, glad to be home. While I was in Utah, I got a call from my Paramedic instructor that I passed my NYS exam and that I am now a Paramedic for the grand state of New York.
I hope everyone had a great two weeks. Pictures to follow as we need to take them off the memory card. Love you all.
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