Thursday, August 30, 2012
Scouts/school/dentist!
I must say that the last several days have been very busy. I took Sam and Sariah to a pediatric dentist on tuesday to find out more info about their two front teeth. It is kind of sad because Sam has been missing his two front teeth for almost 20 months. Unfortuanately the dentist said it could be another year. As far as Sariah goes she has been grinding her front teeth down just like Sam. We must be stressing them out or something. Timothy is still loving the Junior High, he is very happy I made him sign up for the personal finance class. I told him he would be happy at the time and all he wanted to do was fight me, welcome to raising a pre-teen. I think they just want to be opposite of Mom all the time. The power went out several times yesterday from all the storms we are having. I had spent over an hour updating my blog only to have it all lost. I am hoping to have pictures from our trip in the blog by Sunday. The kids both had scouts last night, so I took them and Sariah stayed back to have a party with her dad. It was so cute she had her blanket set up with all her little toy friends including moose and Big bird, she was ready to play with her daddy. She is a daddy's girl. I hope we all survive this full week of school, it has been a long one with Nathan going to lots of late night meetings. He decided to be the Head Boys soccer coach. It took us over a month to make the decision as a family, but it was in the best interest of Timothy. If they didn't find a qualified applicant they were going to end the program. Whether I want to believe it or not Timothy will be in High School in two years. We will be supporting Nathan at the games as a family!!Well I must get ready to send Sam to school. So until next time, bye.
Timothy and Samuel all ready to go to scouts!!
Sariah ready to go take pictures with her new Elmo camera!!
Monday, August 27, 2012
First Day of School!!
It is official, Timothy started Junior High today. It is amazing how fast time goes, I can still remember bringing him home from the hospital to our little apartment in Provo. It is kind of sad seeing them all grow up. The Junior High starts at 7:11 am so he is picked up by a friend at 6:45. He had been ready and waiting for a while. It was a nice sight to walk into the kitchen with him studying the scriptures and reading the New Era. He has really changed. It was funny because Sam was ready to go an hour early and couldn't wait. It was nice spending time with him and Sariah. After getting Sam to school, Sariah and I went to the store to get the cupboards stocked for the week. It was funny because Nathan's favorite song "Good to be alive" by Jason Gray came on this morning. It is one of those songs we should all listen to and apply to our own lives. Everytime Nathan hears it he is moved to tears and action in his own life, I try to do the same. We are all so blessed to be alive. Well I think it is back to the chores of the day.
The kids made it home all in one piece. It was funny Timothy walked in the door and announced loudly Junior High is Awesome!! I gave him a hard time about a girl he met that he thought was cute. Samuel's highlight of the day was sitting next to his good friend Weston, we'll see how long the teacher lets that last. I was happy to hear that Sam scored advanced on state testing in both reading and math. He only missed one question in math!! We then had to have a family home evening lesson on jealousy and being happy for eachothers accomplishments. I was also happy that Timothy had homework on the first day. We played Wii bowling for our activity and some friends stopped by and brought the treat. Nathan has headed off for an 830 pm softball game and the kids are melting down, need I say any more.
The kids made it home all in one piece. It was funny Timothy walked in the door and announced loudly Junior High is Awesome!! I gave him a hard time about a girl he met that he thought was cute. Samuel's highlight of the day was sitting next to his good friend Weston, we'll see how long the teacher lets that last. I was happy to hear that Sam scored advanced on state testing in both reading and math. He only missed one question in math!! We then had to have a family home evening lesson on jealousy and being happy for eachothers accomplishments. I was also happy that Timothy had homework on the first day. We played Wii bowling for our activity and some friends stopped by and brought the treat. Nathan has headed off for an 830 pm softball game and the kids are melting down, need I say any more.
Saturday, August 25, 2012
Busy three Days!
August 25, 2012
Well vacation is over and back to work we go. The last three days have been extremely busy. I think this is the first time I have been able to sit down and relax without a little girl by my side and that is because she fell asleep at 6:00pm. The kids and I had fun on Thursday, we went to the dress reahersal of the play "Anne of Green Gabels." I must say it was a great play. I am sure for those of you who know me, you are curious what got me to the play? We are watching the lead in the play (Anne) while her parents are at a wedding. She did such a good job I am hoping to go see it again with Nathan, because he was unable to attend since he was at church meetings. It made for a late night for everyone.
On Friday morning I took the 3 kids to the splash park and left Tim at home because he was too cool for all of us. I was able to meet friends over there and enjoyed catching up with them after 3 weeks away. We got home to find Tim gone to the High School to help his dad. We all decided to go down and lend a hand. It was good thing we did because he put us all to work for the next four hours. I took Sam to his back to school night to meet his new teacher Ms. Hiebel. I was able to go sign the kids up for soccer and Sariah begged me to be in dance, after meeting the dance teacher at the school. We made it home in time to feed Vanessa and get her to the play for opening night. It was nice because our good friend (adopted Grandpa) came by to see the kids, we had a great time with him. I feel asleep early and woke up at 10:00 pm worried about not getting Vanessa at the play. It's good thing Nathan and Tim are night owls and got her.
Today was very long, we started by cleaning the car and the house. We then went down to the school to help Nathan for another four hours. We then had some tacos for lunch. After that we went straight to our friends new house for Nathan to help move a pool table. While we were there we all went swimming in there big in ground pool. I have decided that we should all call Sam a fish. He was in there for almost four hours straight and still threw a fit to leave. Timothy enjoyed all the attention from the 3 girls all his age. After getting Vanessa to the play Nathan and I enjoyed a nice date with no kids. It is really nice having a babysitter in the house!!! I am looking forwards to Monday and school starting.
Sariah ready to be in dance!! She went and found it all by herself and got dressed to go, to bad it doesn't start until September!
Sariah enjoying strawberries and happy to be home!!
Well vacation is over and back to work we go. The last three days have been extremely busy. I think this is the first time I have been able to sit down and relax without a little girl by my side and that is because she fell asleep at 6:00pm. The kids and I had fun on Thursday, we went to the dress reahersal of the play "Anne of Green Gabels." I must say it was a great play. I am sure for those of you who know me, you are curious what got me to the play? We are watching the lead in the play (Anne) while her parents are at a wedding. She did such a good job I am hoping to go see it again with Nathan, because he was unable to attend since he was at church meetings. It made for a late night for everyone.
On Friday morning I took the 3 kids to the splash park and left Tim at home because he was too cool for all of us. I was able to meet friends over there and enjoyed catching up with them after 3 weeks away. We got home to find Tim gone to the High School to help his dad. We all decided to go down and lend a hand. It was good thing we did because he put us all to work for the next four hours. I took Sam to his back to school night to meet his new teacher Ms. Hiebel. I was able to go sign the kids up for soccer and Sariah begged me to be in dance, after meeting the dance teacher at the school. We made it home in time to feed Vanessa and get her to the play for opening night. It was nice because our good friend (adopted Grandpa) came by to see the kids, we had a great time with him. I feel asleep early and woke up at 10:00 pm worried about not getting Vanessa at the play. It's good thing Nathan and Tim are night owls and got her.
Today was very long, we started by cleaning the car and the house. We then went down to the school to help Nathan for another four hours. We then had some tacos for lunch. After that we went straight to our friends new house for Nathan to help move a pool table. While we were there we all went swimming in there big in ground pool. I have decided that we should all call Sam a fish. He was in there for almost four hours straight and still threw a fit to leave. Timothy enjoyed all the attention from the 3 girls all his age. After getting Vanessa to the play Nathan and I enjoyed a nice date with no kids. It is really nice having a babysitter in the house!!! I am looking forwards to Monday and school starting.
Wednesday, August 22, 2012
First Full Day Home!
August 22, 2012
I'm sure you have all heard the saying "theres no place like home." After all our time away from home I must say I agree. It was funny because when we got home Sam was convinced we had a brand new home, because it looked nicer and bigger. I think two weeks in hotel rooms makes our little house look like a mansion. It took the entire rest of the day to unpack and get settled in. I think I have never felt so tired in my life. Looking back on this summer I have to say this has been the best family summer ever!!
Today has gone by very quickly. We spent the entire morning down at the Junior High School, yes our little Tim is in Junior High. I went to orientation with Tim while Nathan took the other two to a meeting he had. I told Tim that the more he didn't want me to volunteer, the more I would make sure to volunteer. The principal knows Nathan from their track days together and encourages parent involvement especially when the kid doesn't want it. We were able to get his schedule, p.e. clothing and books. He was excited to be placed in all honors classes. We were a little baffled as to why he is in advanced band and will be fixing that since he only plays piano. It's funny because his honors English teacher had Nathan as a teacher. I told Nathan that he is officially old!!!
Timothy was nice and watched the kids for the entire afternoon so that I could go help Nathan get his classroom set up. He is somehow convinced that I make it more exciting. I think this is now 12 years of setting up his classroom. After that I took the little two to the dentist to get their teeth cleaned and to find out why Sam still doesn't have his two front teeth. It is still a mystery, I have to go to a pediatric dentist to get more advice. We were then able to go by the school and see who Sam's teacher will be, he was excited to see that he was in the same class as his good friend. Timothy's swim activity on base was cancelled because of all the rain. It is amazing how much it has been raining since we got home. I am so glad to be home and am looking forwards to getting back into a daily routine with the kids. It has been nice to have a sit down family dinner and scripture study in our own home the last two nights. And before I forget to mention again it is NICE TO BE HOME!!!!
I'm sure you have all heard the saying "theres no place like home." After all our time away from home I must say I agree. It was funny because when we got home Sam was convinced we had a brand new home, because it looked nicer and bigger. I think two weeks in hotel rooms makes our little house look like a mansion. It took the entire rest of the day to unpack and get settled in. I think I have never felt so tired in my life. Looking back on this summer I have to say this has been the best family summer ever!!
Today has gone by very quickly. We spent the entire morning down at the Junior High School, yes our little Tim is in Junior High. I went to orientation with Tim while Nathan took the other two to a meeting he had. I told Tim that the more he didn't want me to volunteer, the more I would make sure to volunteer. The principal knows Nathan from their track days together and encourages parent involvement especially when the kid doesn't want it. We were able to get his schedule, p.e. clothing and books. He was excited to be placed in all honors classes. We were a little baffled as to why he is in advanced band and will be fixing that since he only plays piano. It's funny because his honors English teacher had Nathan as a teacher. I told Nathan that he is officially old!!!
Timothy was nice and watched the kids for the entire afternoon so that I could go help Nathan get his classroom set up. He is somehow convinced that I make it more exciting. I think this is now 12 years of setting up his classroom. After that I took the little two to the dentist to get their teeth cleaned and to find out why Sam still doesn't have his two front teeth. It is still a mystery, I have to go to a pediatric dentist to get more advice. We were then able to go by the school and see who Sam's teacher will be, he was excited to see that he was in the same class as his good friend. Timothy's swim activity on base was cancelled because of all the rain. It is amazing how much it has been raining since we got home. I am so glad to be home and am looking forwards to getting back into a daily routine with the kids. It has been nice to have a sit down family dinner and scripture study in our own home the last two nights. And before I forget to mention again it is NICE TO BE HOME!!!!
Monday, August 20, 2012
Struggling to find time!!
August 20, 2012
I have to say that even though I am just writing only a few of the highlights from each day of the trip, I am struggling to keep up with it all. I have to say this has been the funnest two weeks ever and I am sad to see it end. The kids have been enjoying all of their cousins so much. In fact Sam told his dad tonight that it would be cool to live up here by his grandparents and cousins. Of course Nathan came up with a reason to make it sound not cool. If we lived up here Sam then you wouldn't be the popular new cousin. I have enjoyed being around all my brothers and sisters and nieces and nephews and parents. I am so blessed to have such a wonderful loving and caring family. I will update the rest of the blog once I get back from vacation and work my way through all the laundry. Until then I hope all is well and good with all your families and loved ones.
I have to say that even though I am just writing only a few of the highlights from each day of the trip, I am struggling to keep up with it all. I have to say this has been the funnest two weeks ever and I am sad to see it end. The kids have been enjoying all of their cousins so much. In fact Sam told his dad tonight that it would be cool to live up here by his grandparents and cousins. Of course Nathan came up with a reason to make it sound not cool. If we lived up here Sam then you wouldn't be the popular new cousin. I have enjoyed being around all my brothers and sisters and nieces and nephews and parents. I am so blessed to have such a wonderful loving and caring family. I will update the rest of the blog once I get back from vacation and work my way through all the laundry. Until then I hope all is well and good with all your families and loved ones.
Sunday, August 19, 2012
Day 17: Missoula/time with friends
August 17, 2012
This day turned out to be the kids favorite from the entire trip. We started the day out by getting caught up on our laundry. We then were able to go down to a really cool park. The kids enjoyed riding the Carousel, Timothy enjoyed trying to get a gold ring. They say the Carousel is one of the fastest in the world. All I know is watching for to long made me dizzy. The kids enjoyed playing on the toys, it brought back memories of them playing together at luckie park. It was loud when Nathan spun the kids really fast on the tire swing, I was shocked none of them lost their lunch. We then took the kids on a walk down to the river, of course it wasn't a very long walk because Sariah is always way to tired to walk. We then took a driving tour of the college campus, it was fun because we were all together in the suburban. We then went back to the house to finish up the laundry.
It was nice because Megan offered to watch the kids so that we could go on a double date. We were able to find a really good pizza place in downtown. I think that was the best pizza and salad I have ever had. We then went down to the park where they were having a music concert. We enjoyed the music for a little while before finishing the night off with seeing where Mike works. We got back to find all well with the kids. We played a few games of pitch and then went back to the hotel for sleep. We of course let Sam spend one last night with his friend. It was a great day. We really miss them but are happy that they have found happiness in their new home!!
Budget for the day:
Hotel-$88.00
Lunch- $5.00
Dinner-$29.00
Total- $122.00
Great Memories with Friends- Priceless
Sariah and Mary together again!
Milt, Sam with his black eye and Sariah at the park in Missoula, MT
Sam and Milt on the carousel ride at the park!
The two girls having fun together on the toys.
Kids having fun in the river.
I'm wet!!
Good friends
Big brother carrying his sister who is too tired to walk!!
Madeline and Mary on the carousel ride.
Sam and Milt having fun in the water.
This day turned out to be the kids favorite from the entire trip. We started the day out by getting caught up on our laundry. We then were able to go down to a really cool park. The kids enjoyed riding the Carousel, Timothy enjoyed trying to get a gold ring. They say the Carousel is one of the fastest in the world. All I know is watching for to long made me dizzy. The kids enjoyed playing on the toys, it brought back memories of them playing together at luckie park. It was loud when Nathan spun the kids really fast on the tire swing, I was shocked none of them lost their lunch. We then took the kids on a walk down to the river, of course it wasn't a very long walk because Sariah is always way to tired to walk. We then took a driving tour of the college campus, it was fun because we were all together in the suburban. We then went back to the house to finish up the laundry.
It was nice because Megan offered to watch the kids so that we could go on a double date. We were able to find a really good pizza place in downtown. I think that was the best pizza and salad I have ever had. We then went down to the park where they were having a music concert. We enjoyed the music for a little while before finishing the night off with seeing where Mike works. We got back to find all well with the kids. We played a few games of pitch and then went back to the hotel for sleep. We of course let Sam spend one last night with his friend. It was a great day. We really miss them but are happy that they have found happiness in their new home!!
Budget for the day:
Hotel-$88.00
Lunch- $5.00
Dinner-$29.00
Total- $122.00
Great Memories with Friends- Priceless
Day 16: Heading to Missoula!!!
August 15, 2012
I think that heading to Missoula to see our good friends was at the top of every ones list. We got out of Spokane at a snails pace. As we were about 10 miles out of town Nathan remembered we were going to stop at the Spokane temple. I was able to get the address put into the GPS quickly and we soon found out we were right at the exit we needed to take. It kind of worked out because it was located outside of town. Nathan wanted to give his car a bath, so we stopped at the Bear car wash. The kids enjoyed walking around the temple. I felt sad for Sariah because she stood at the doors crying because she wanted to go inside. That seemed like the perfect opportunity to talk about how she needs to live her life to get married inside someday. We then started down the road once again. We stopped in Cordelaine, Idaho to buy the kids new play cellphones and flip flops that had been lost or broken along the way. As Nathan would describe it, the most miserable crowded place ever. He was glad to get back on the road after 45 minutes of just driving to and from the k-mart that was located less than a mile off the interstate. I thought it was quite funny watching him get so upset over something so simple.
We finally arrived at our friends house in Missoula. I think I was just as excited as the kids to be with my friend. We were able to spend a relaxing afternoon together. We had a barbecue dinner and then went for a walk looking for deer. It was amazing to see all the deer in the neighbors yards. We joked about some of the houses for sale, that we should buy and move up there. I was then able to go for a drive with Molly and of course get a coke. It started to feel like old times again, just a lot greener. We decided to let Sam spend the night with his buddy Milton and we stayed in a Hotel in hopes that Sariah would sleep better. This was an awesome day!!!
Budget for the day:
Hotel- $88.00
K-mart- $33.98
Car Wash- $6.00
Lunch- $27.96
Total-$155.94
Time with friends- Priceless
I think that heading to Missoula to see our good friends was at the top of every ones list. We got out of Spokane at a snails pace. As we were about 10 miles out of town Nathan remembered we were going to stop at the Spokane temple. I was able to get the address put into the GPS quickly and we soon found out we were right at the exit we needed to take. It kind of worked out because it was located outside of town. Nathan wanted to give his car a bath, so we stopped at the Bear car wash. The kids enjoyed walking around the temple. I felt sad for Sariah because she stood at the doors crying because she wanted to go inside. That seemed like the perfect opportunity to talk about how she needs to live her life to get married inside someday. We then started down the road once again. We stopped in Cordelaine, Idaho to buy the kids new play cellphones and flip flops that had been lost or broken along the way. As Nathan would describe it, the most miserable crowded place ever. He was glad to get back on the road after 45 minutes of just driving to and from the k-mart that was located less than a mile off the interstate. I thought it was quite funny watching him get so upset over something so simple.
We finally arrived at our friends house in Missoula. I think I was just as excited as the kids to be with my friend. We were able to spend a relaxing afternoon together. We had a barbecue dinner and then went for a walk looking for deer. It was amazing to see all the deer in the neighbors yards. We joked about some of the houses for sale, that we should buy and move up there. I was then able to go for a drive with Molly and of course get a coke. It started to feel like old times again, just a lot greener. We decided to let Sam spend the night with his buddy Milton and we stayed in a Hotel in hopes that Sariah would sleep better. This was an awesome day!!!
Budget for the day:
Hotel- $88.00
K-mart- $33.98
Car Wash- $6.00
Lunch- $27.96
Total-$155.94
Time with friends- Priceless
Day 15: Space Needle/Spokane
August 14, 2012
Once again we got a slow start. We wanted to go over to the space needle, even though Tim didn't. I think Tim is learning that when he doesn't want to do something it only makes us want to do it more. Once we got to the top all the kids thought the views and the activities at the top were great. Sariah enjoyed the music at the bottom and was convinced that she was at Disneyland. We decided to let the kids run around a little and get their energy out.
After the space needle we set out in search of the Seattle temple. We were able to locate it just outside of Seattle. It was very pretty and we liked all the statues they had outside of the temple. We enjoyed walking around the entire building before heading out to get lunch in a nearby area. Everybody enjoyed Tim's pick for lunch and enjoyed yummy tacos.
We headed towards our destination of Spokane. We were shocked by all the massive wild fires. We followed them for over 200 miles. We found a cute little fruit store and got some yummy nectarines. We were able to make it to Spokane in good time. We had enough time to go to the park in Spokane that I had read about. The kids enjoyed sliding down the giant Radio Flyer wagon, riding on the hand carved carousel and taking a ride down to see the Spokane falls. They were especially excited to see a hotel that had a pool. So of course they went swimming and enjoyed doing helicopters with their dad in the water. We had a very fun day!!
The budget for the day was:
Space needle- $65.00
Parking- $6.00
Space Needle Gifts-$10.87
Fruit store-$15.85
Lunch-$24.50
Spokane park-$28.00
Hotel-$77.71
Dinner-$15.21
Total- $243.14
Once again we got a slow start. We wanted to go over to the space needle, even though Tim didn't. I think Tim is learning that when he doesn't want to do something it only makes us want to do it more. Once we got to the top all the kids thought the views and the activities at the top were great. Sariah enjoyed the music at the bottom and was convinced that she was at Disneyland. We decided to let the kids run around a little and get their energy out.
After the space needle we set out in search of the Seattle temple. We were able to locate it just outside of Seattle. It was very pretty and we liked all the statues they had outside of the temple. We enjoyed walking around the entire building before heading out to get lunch in a nearby area. Everybody enjoyed Tim's pick for lunch and enjoyed yummy tacos.
We headed towards our destination of Spokane. We were shocked by all the massive wild fires. We followed them for over 200 miles. We found a cute little fruit store and got some yummy nectarines. We were able to make it to Spokane in good time. We had enough time to go to the park in Spokane that I had read about. The kids enjoyed sliding down the giant Radio Flyer wagon, riding on the hand carved carousel and taking a ride down to see the Spokane falls. They were especially excited to see a hotel that had a pool. So of course they went swimming and enjoyed doing helicopters with their dad in the water. We had a very fun day!!
The budget for the day was:
Space needle- $65.00
Parking- $6.00
Space Needle Gifts-$10.87
Fruit store-$15.85
Lunch-$24.50
Spokane park-$28.00
Hotel-$77.71
Dinner-$15.21
Total- $243.14
Day 14: Mount St. Helens/Mariners Game
August 13,2012
We started the day off in Vancuver, WA. I think with each passing day it has become harder to get out of bed. We got a late start once again, but we were all well rested. We were able to make a stop at Mount Saint Helens visitor center, it was good because Tim had over 100 questions and almost all of them got answered. The kids enjoyed the movie it went into detail about the days leading up to the eruption and the days following. They both were able to earn there Junior Ranger badges. We spent almost two hours there. We then had to get moving towards Seattle for the game that night.
We made awful time getting there because the traffic was awful. I did a lot of the driving so Nathan could sleep. I kept thinking I was in the same spot, there was lots of pine trees followed by lots of pine trees. It was driving me crazy because you couldn't see anything they were so thick. We made it to Seattle in time to relax before the game. The kids were disappointed once again that there was no pool, so they got in there swimsuits and got in the tub. It was quite funny. We were staying right by the hotel and took the light rail system down to the game, it makes things more relaxing for Nathan when he doesn't have to drive.
The kids loved the stadium, especially the little toy area for Sam and Sariah. The kids loved the shops and had to get a little something, my favorite was Sariah and her little moose. Nathan enjoyed the game, the tempature was great and Nathan liked that Fernando Rodney closed the game for the Rays. We also enjoyed going down by the bull pen and watching the pitchers warm up, it is the only park where you can do that. The final score was Mariners 1 and the Rays 3. Sariah enjoyed holding up the moose and yelling Lets go Dodgers! It confused everyone around us, she is a true Dodgers fan. We enjoyed the ride back to the hotel talking with other passengers. One thing that I have noticed in all of our travels is that every city that we have visited we have enjoyed conversations with really nice people. I think that by the time we made it back that night we were all ready for a good nights sleep.
The budget for the day was:
Hotel- Free with points
Mt. Saint Helens-$18.60
Lunch-$18.25
Transit-$16.00
Mariners gifts-$40.57
Mariners Tickets-$60.00
Dinner-$24.00
Total- $177.42
Family Fun in Seattle-Priceless
We started the day off in Vancuver, WA. I think with each passing day it has become harder to get out of bed. We got a late start once again, but we were all well rested. We were able to make a stop at Mount Saint Helens visitor center, it was good because Tim had over 100 questions and almost all of them got answered. The kids enjoyed the movie it went into detail about the days leading up to the eruption and the days following. They both were able to earn there Junior Ranger badges. We spent almost two hours there. We then had to get moving towards Seattle for the game that night.
We made awful time getting there because the traffic was awful. I did a lot of the driving so Nathan could sleep. I kept thinking I was in the same spot, there was lots of pine trees followed by lots of pine trees. It was driving me crazy because you couldn't see anything they were so thick. We made it to Seattle in time to relax before the game. The kids were disappointed once again that there was no pool, so they got in there swimsuits and got in the tub. It was quite funny. We were staying right by the hotel and took the light rail system down to the game, it makes things more relaxing for Nathan when he doesn't have to drive.
The kids loved the stadium, especially the little toy area for Sam and Sariah. The kids loved the shops and had to get a little something, my favorite was Sariah and her little moose. Nathan enjoyed the game, the tempature was great and Nathan liked that Fernando Rodney closed the game for the Rays. We also enjoyed going down by the bull pen and watching the pitchers warm up, it is the only park where you can do that. The final score was Mariners 1 and the Rays 3. Sariah enjoyed holding up the moose and yelling Lets go Dodgers! It confused everyone around us, she is a true Dodgers fan. We enjoyed the ride back to the hotel talking with other passengers. One thing that I have noticed in all of our travels is that every city that we have visited we have enjoyed conversations with really nice people. I think that by the time we made it back that night we were all ready for a good nights sleep.
The budget for the day was:
Hotel- Free with points
Mt. Saint Helens-$18.60
Lunch-$18.25
Transit-$16.00
Mariners gifts-$40.57
Mariners Tickets-$60.00
Dinner-$24.00
Total- $177.42
Family Fun in Seattle-Priceless
Tuesday, August 14, 2012
Tired!
Well as some of you may know being a parent can be very tiring at time, but being on vacation can prove to be more tiring then ever. Nathan and I have decided that we are no longer young and that for some reason while planning the trip we thought we were 20 and newlyweds again. We have soon realized that is not the case. Gone are the days of driving through the night to have long conversations. We are tired before 7pm on a good night. Anyways our kids have so much energy and we don't, I think we gave it all to them. We are enjoying the trip but are learning to slow the pace down immensly next year. I will try to catch everyone up on the last couple of days and pictures once I make it to Utah. Until then I hope all of you are enjoyng your summer as much as we are!!! I miss all my friends and my little desert town, see you all in a week!!!!!!!!! I'm ready for a girls night out (cheesecake factory).
Sunday, August 12, 2012
Day 13: On the road/ Temples/ Oregon Vortex
August 12, 2012
I have to say traveling with three kids can sometimes prove to be a challenge especially when one of them is three years old and cute. We decided we needed to get on the road a little earlier today since we had 340 miles to go to reach Vancuver, WA. We were unable to make it to church because it started to late in the day. We decided to drive to Medford, OR and sit on the temple grounds and have our own little church lesson, on keeping covenants with the Lord. The kids enjoyed it because it was about Baptism and the Priesthood which both of the boys experienced this year.
After that we headed to the Oregon Vortex and House of Mystery (suggested by a good friend). The kids loved it and were completely amazed and shocked as were Nathan and I. I'm still thinking about it. I will post pictures of it. It was crazy to see that you would appear taller just by moving to a different spot and watching things roll up hill, crazy!! I actually got a little queasy in the house as did Sariah. We then headed down the road and enjoyed lunch at Quiznos. It was funny cause Sam said "Mom you know a lot of people on the trip", I said no I don't,he said you sure are talking like you know them. I guess I tend to be friendly everywhere I go. The whole staff at Quiznos said bye and have a fun trip when we left. Both Nathan and I wanted to go to Crater lake, but looked at the mileage and decided we would probably all "Crater" before we got to the hotel if we did.
I drove the next several hours while everyone took two plus hour naps. I enjoyed listening to prime country on xm radio and driving through all the trees. As I was listening to all the songs I realized how blessed I am to have such a good husband and three wonderful kids. I also thought while listening to the song by Tim Mcgraw how glad I am for all the events in my life that influenced Nathan and I to go on this trip and make the most of our lives while we can. I also enjoyed the song by Martina McBride "Loves the only house." It's funny because Nathan has gotten upset with me a few times on the trip as I have given homeless food or money and I have told him I can't judge I just have to love. After hearing the song, he said wow Solinda you may be right. I also thought of people I met or am friends with who are from all the areas we have been driving through. That is the great thing about living where we do, you make good friends from all over the country. Soon after that we got stopped in traffic for a very long time because of an accident, everybody was wanting to get mad, I suggested that instead lets pray for all who have been in the accident. After we were done with the prayer the mood changed.
We soon were able to stop and see the Portland, OR temple. It is so so Pretty, it pops out at you on the I-5 and you can't miss it. We went to the new visitor center and watch a tear jerking movie on families. The little boy almost falls off a huge Mountain and then all of the sudden noise from the kids at night no longer seems like noise, time together is precious, forgiveness and repenting seem important. It then goes back to when the daughter is a baby and goes through her life clear to her wedding day. It is important to love all no matter what and to show that love, It really touched our hearts. We are grateful for our little family and this awesome memory we are making.
The budget for the day is as follows:
Oregon Vortex-$32.62
Quiznos-$15.16
Shakes$16.22
Dinner-$5.00
Hotel-$68.74
Total-$137.74
Families Forever-priceless
Picture taken at the Medford, OR Temple grounds!!
We made it to the Oregon Vortex!
Sam and Sariah rolling the chapstick down hill in the House of Mystery, Sariah confused about why it is coming back to her
Nathan and the kids walking out of the house of mystery!!
Compare Sam and Sariah's heights in these two pictures, it is very strange!!
Picture taken in front of Oregon Capitol in Salem, it was very hot that day!
Picture of the boys at the Portland, Oregon Temple!
Sariah at the Portland Temple, notice she has her pink phone!!
Samuel and Sariah having fun on the grass outside the Portland visitor center!!
Spending time together at the river in Vancuver, Washington.
Playing a fun game of duck duck goose by the river!!
I have to say traveling with three kids can sometimes prove to be a challenge especially when one of them is three years old and cute. We decided we needed to get on the road a little earlier today since we had 340 miles to go to reach Vancuver, WA. We were unable to make it to church because it started to late in the day. We decided to drive to Medford, OR and sit on the temple grounds and have our own little church lesson, on keeping covenants with the Lord. The kids enjoyed it because it was about Baptism and the Priesthood which both of the boys experienced this year.
After that we headed to the Oregon Vortex and House of Mystery (suggested by a good friend). The kids loved it and were completely amazed and shocked as were Nathan and I. I'm still thinking about it. I will post pictures of it. It was crazy to see that you would appear taller just by moving to a different spot and watching things roll up hill, crazy!! I actually got a little queasy in the house as did Sariah. We then headed down the road and enjoyed lunch at Quiznos. It was funny cause Sam said "Mom you know a lot of people on the trip", I said no I don't,he said you sure are talking like you know them. I guess I tend to be friendly everywhere I go. The whole staff at Quiznos said bye and have a fun trip when we left. Both Nathan and I wanted to go to Crater lake, but looked at the mileage and decided we would probably all "Crater" before we got to the hotel if we did.
I drove the next several hours while everyone took two plus hour naps. I enjoyed listening to prime country on xm radio and driving through all the trees. As I was listening to all the songs I realized how blessed I am to have such a good husband and three wonderful kids. I also thought while listening to the song by Tim Mcgraw how glad I am for all the events in my life that influenced Nathan and I to go on this trip and make the most of our lives while we can. I also enjoyed the song by Martina McBride "Loves the only house." It's funny because Nathan has gotten upset with me a few times on the trip as I have given homeless food or money and I have told him I can't judge I just have to love. After hearing the song, he said wow Solinda you may be right. I also thought of people I met or am friends with who are from all the areas we have been driving through. That is the great thing about living where we do, you make good friends from all over the country. Soon after that we got stopped in traffic for a very long time because of an accident, everybody was wanting to get mad, I suggested that instead lets pray for all who have been in the accident. After we were done with the prayer the mood changed.
We soon were able to stop and see the Portland, OR temple. It is so so Pretty, it pops out at you on the I-5 and you can't miss it. We went to the new visitor center and watch a tear jerking movie on families. The little boy almost falls off a huge Mountain and then all of the sudden noise from the kids at night no longer seems like noise, time together is precious, forgiveness and repenting seem important. It then goes back to when the daughter is a baby and goes through her life clear to her wedding day. It is important to love all no matter what and to show that love, It really touched our hearts. We are grateful for our little family and this awesome memory we are making.
The budget for the day is as follows:
Oregon Vortex-$32.62
Quiznos-$15.16
Shakes$16.22
Dinner-$5.00
Hotel-$68.74
Total-$137.74
Families Forever-priceless
Compare Sam and Sariah's heights in these two pictures, it is very strange!!
Playing a fun game of duck duck goose by the river!!
Day 12: On the Road/Mccloud falls
August 11, 2012
I have to tell you, I was worried at the beginning of the day as to how the kids would do on the long drive. It ended up being around a 350 plus mile day, I know it doesn't sound like much but some of the roads were slow and we made stops along the way. We started by leaving San Fransisco a little later than planned after Sariah kicked a cup of orange juice out of Nathan's hand and all down my shirt and pants, some of the joys of traveling with a three year old who only wants her mother and whose dad is always trying to keep her away to give me a break. I actually found the thing humorous, it was Nathan that didn't think it was that funny, you would of thought he had to shower and change. We started heading towards our destination of Yreka, CA. We were able to make it pretty far before we stopped to gas up, and traded drivers so that Nathan could take his nap. I drove for about two hours until we go to about Redding were we stopped to eat at a Country Pride diner.
There had been lots of fires in the area and there was lots of smoke also they were experiencing their hottest day of the year, it was 106 degrees and much hotter than we experience in the desert because of the humidity. It was funny because the power was out and everyone was stressed, but we sat and enjoyed a relaxed lunch and I was happy to have all you can eat salad!! Sam had his best meal of the WHOLE TRIP in his words, french toast and bacon. It was cute because he said this is the best meal of the trip but not my best meal ever because mom you make my best meals. After lunch we headed down the road to Lake Shasta, and to check out the caverns. We decided not to do the caverns but to have the kids pan for gems instead. In the process of doing that we started talking with the lady in charge and found out about a cool spot called McCloud falls which was about 40 miles down the road and 15 miles off the beaten path. We enjoyed all the views on the way. We were glad we went, it was absolutely breathtaking and fun. The kids loved getting in the water especially Sam who fell in. It reminded me so much of being a kid and going up into the canyon on a hot summer day. There were lots of kids jumping off the falls and into the water. We then started feeling pressed for time and headed out once again.
We made it to Yreka and checked into the hotel and like every other CA town drove around to see if we liked it. I soon discovered it was definitely an interstate town. We went to Carls Jr to let the kids play on the toys, and then to the park to kick the soccer ball. We then went and drove by the High school, to of course check out the track!!! We went back to the hotel and watched men's diving and the 4X400 in the Olympics. What a day we had. The kids were road warriors. I can say they were awesome!!
The budget of the day was as follows:
Hotel-6000 points (free)
Toll- $5.00
Lunch- $36.00
Gems- $7.00
Dinner- $12.50
Total-$60.50
Family road trip- Priceless
The kids at a visitor center near Mt. Shasta panning for Gems!!
Nathan and the boys with Lake Shasta behind them (it is a little dryed up).
Picture of kids with their mom up by Mt. Shasta. (we are standing by Nathans new car).
Picture taken at the lower McCloud Falls located in California!!
Sariah hiding from the camera once again, I'm sure she is thinkink mom no more pictures.
The boys sitting on a rock playing in the water together. (I must note this was before Tim fell in.)
Sariah trying to keep her balance walking to get her mom!
Can we please stay for 2 more minutes!! (if you know my daughter this is her favorite phrase)
Picture taken in front of our cute hotel room in Yreka, CA!!
I have to tell you, I was worried at the beginning of the day as to how the kids would do on the long drive. It ended up being around a 350 plus mile day, I know it doesn't sound like much but some of the roads were slow and we made stops along the way. We started by leaving San Fransisco a little later than planned after Sariah kicked a cup of orange juice out of Nathan's hand and all down my shirt and pants, some of the joys of traveling with a three year old who only wants her mother and whose dad is always trying to keep her away to give me a break. I actually found the thing humorous, it was Nathan that didn't think it was that funny, you would of thought he had to shower and change. We started heading towards our destination of Yreka, CA. We were able to make it pretty far before we stopped to gas up, and traded drivers so that Nathan could take his nap. I drove for about two hours until we go to about Redding were we stopped to eat at a Country Pride diner.
There had been lots of fires in the area and there was lots of smoke also they were experiencing their hottest day of the year, it was 106 degrees and much hotter than we experience in the desert because of the humidity. It was funny because the power was out and everyone was stressed, but we sat and enjoyed a relaxed lunch and I was happy to have all you can eat salad!! Sam had his best meal of the WHOLE TRIP in his words, french toast and bacon. It was cute because he said this is the best meal of the trip but not my best meal ever because mom you make my best meals. After lunch we headed down the road to Lake Shasta, and to check out the caverns. We decided not to do the caverns but to have the kids pan for gems instead. In the process of doing that we started talking with the lady in charge and found out about a cool spot called McCloud falls which was about 40 miles down the road and 15 miles off the beaten path. We enjoyed all the views on the way. We were glad we went, it was absolutely breathtaking and fun. The kids loved getting in the water especially Sam who fell in. It reminded me so much of being a kid and going up into the canyon on a hot summer day. There were lots of kids jumping off the falls and into the water. We then started feeling pressed for time and headed out once again.
We made it to Yreka and checked into the hotel and like every other CA town drove around to see if we liked it. I soon discovered it was definitely an interstate town. We went to Carls Jr to let the kids play on the toys, and then to the park to kick the soccer ball. We then went and drove by the High school, to of course check out the track!!! We went back to the hotel and watched men's diving and the 4X400 in the Olympics. What a day we had. The kids were road warriors. I can say they were awesome!!
The budget of the day was as follows:
Hotel-6000 points (free)
Toll- $5.00
Lunch- $36.00
Gems- $7.00
Dinner- $12.50
Total-$60.50
Family road trip- Priceless
Saturday, August 11, 2012
Day 11: Jelly Belly Factory/Giants game
August 10, 2012
Today was a very fun day. We started out the day by venturing over to Fairfield to see the Jelly Belly factory and take a tour. Nathan was less than excite when he saw the long waiting line. It turned out to be only 30 minutes. The kids did better then Nathan, they enjoyed reading the brochures about all the different flavors. The kids enjoyed the tour and looking at the pictures all made from Jelly bellies. They learned that the cany became popular because of Ronald Regan when he was Governor and then became more popular when he became president, because he loved the candy. The kids loved all the samples and Nathan was ready to go by the end.
We drove around the San Rafeal marshes and enjoyed all the farm land. We took a drive over the Golden Gate bridge and got lost looking for the overlook. Nathan didn't take the first right like I suggested and we drove around the city for almost 2 hours. It was funny to the kids because for once there mom was right. We were able to eat lunch at an A&W the kids liked the little toy mugs they got. We made it the hotel by 5pm but had to make it to the game by 7:35 pm.
We made it the train station next door and saw the train leaving while looking for a place to park that was legal. The next train didn't come for an entire hour. We waited in the cold and went back and forth from the car to get warm. Once we got to the Stadium we realized that we had the best seats because we were sheltered both from the wind and the seagull poop. They played the Rockies and the Rockies won with the final score being 3-1. The kids loved the game and Sariah was able to fall asleep for the half. They loved watching the car driving on the water, it looked like the back to the future car, and they showed clips from the movie. It was another great game. We took the train back. It was funny because the whole time Timothy was worried about one of us getting stuck on the train like happened to his Grandma Niles with him Sam and Great Grandpa clear back in 2006. Kids memories are amazing. We made it back to the hotel and I was really sick until 1:30 am, to many heart attacks in a sack and hot dogs at the ball parks.
Budget for the day:
Lunch- $15
Toll- $6.00
Cal Train tickets $22
Dinner- $15
Hotel $120.00
Tickets $66.00
Total: $244.00
Family being together: Priceless
Nathan, Timothy and Samuel in front of the Jelly Belly factory before the tour!
Ready and waiting to go on the tour!
Picture with the Jelly Belly!!
Picture of kids having a fun time as we drove across the Golden Gate Bridge!
Picture of Nathan and the kids at the view point for the Bay area, as you can tell Sariah is happy
As you can tell it was very cold and the wind was blowing, Sariah doesn't like cold!!
Bundeled up and ready to go to a cold Giants Game!
So excited that we finally made it to the Game after waiting for a train for over an hour!!!
Picture of the Stadium, the big coke slide and the bay!
Natha and Sariah in a funny picture coming back to their seats at the game!!
Sariah asleep at the Giants Game!
Today was a very fun day. We started out the day by venturing over to Fairfield to see the Jelly Belly factory and take a tour. Nathan was less than excite when he saw the long waiting line. It turned out to be only 30 minutes. The kids did better then Nathan, they enjoyed reading the brochures about all the different flavors. The kids enjoyed the tour and looking at the pictures all made from Jelly bellies. They learned that the cany became popular because of Ronald Regan when he was Governor and then became more popular when he became president, because he loved the candy. The kids loved all the samples and Nathan was ready to go by the end.
We drove around the San Rafeal marshes and enjoyed all the farm land. We took a drive over the Golden Gate bridge and got lost looking for the overlook. Nathan didn't take the first right like I suggested and we drove around the city for almost 2 hours. It was funny to the kids because for once there mom was right. We were able to eat lunch at an A&W the kids liked the little toy mugs they got. We made it the hotel by 5pm but had to make it to the game by 7:35 pm.
We made it the train station next door and saw the train leaving while looking for a place to park that was legal. The next train didn't come for an entire hour. We waited in the cold and went back and forth from the car to get warm. Once we got to the Stadium we realized that we had the best seats because we were sheltered both from the wind and the seagull poop. They played the Rockies and the Rockies won with the final score being 3-1. The kids loved the game and Sariah was able to fall asleep for the half. They loved watching the car driving on the water, it looked like the back to the future car, and they showed clips from the movie. It was another great game. We took the train back. It was funny because the whole time Timothy was worried about one of us getting stuck on the train like happened to his Grandma Niles with him Sam and Great Grandpa clear back in 2006. Kids memories are amazing. We made it back to the hotel and I was really sick until 1:30 am, to many heart attacks in a sack and hot dogs at the ball parks.
Budget for the day:
Lunch- $15
Toll- $6.00
Cal Train tickets $22
Dinner- $15
Hotel $120.00
Tickets $66.00
Total: $244.00
Family being together: Priceless
Friday, August 10, 2012
Day 10: Bay Area
August 9, 2012
This day was one of the most fun adventurous days so far. We started out in the morning going to see the Oakland Temple. The kids thought it was great going on the roof, they enjoyed watching a snail as it moved along at a "Snails Pace". We then set out to find a park and were very unsuccessful in finding one the kids could run kick and play in. We gave up and went in search of Samuels pick for lunch, Mcdonalds. We finally ended up in a Wal-mart that had one inside it was very crowded so we enjoyed our food in the parking lot.
We felt horrible because our phone must not of worked in the parking lot and we missed meeting up with Steve to see the airplane he works on at the Sanfransisco airport. We headed up to see our friends in Los Altos. The kids loved going over the San Mateo Bridge. The kids enjoyed swimming in the pool while we visited.
We started heading our way back to our Hotel in Oakland. When we took a spare of the moment trip out to Half moon Bay. We were glad we did. We enjoyed the scenery but more important it was relaxing getting away from the population. The views were breathtaking. Timothy soon got frustrated in search of his pick for dinner. The first destination had to be worse than a hole in the wall restaurant, even I didn't want to go inside and I am used to going inside of them from growing up. The second place was abandoned and closed down. He finally located a taco shop just off the road and Nathan took a U turn to get us there. It was well worth it, it turned out to be the best Mexican food any of us had, (except Maria's) we all agreed on that. We got to go over the Oakland Bay Bridge to get back to the hotel. We made it back to our hotel and once again crashed into bed. I need to sign off for now so I can head to the Giants game.
Budget for this day.
Hotel- $85.68
McDonalds-$17.00
Guerreros Taqueria- $29.00
Toll-$5.00
Total-$136.68
Family Fun- Priceless
This day was one of the most fun adventurous days so far. We started out in the morning going to see the Oakland Temple. The kids thought it was great going on the roof, they enjoyed watching a snail as it moved along at a "Snails Pace". We then set out to find a park and were very unsuccessful in finding one the kids could run kick and play in. We gave up and went in search of Samuels pick for lunch, Mcdonalds. We finally ended up in a Wal-mart that had one inside it was very crowded so we enjoyed our food in the parking lot.
We felt horrible because our phone must not of worked in the parking lot and we missed meeting up with Steve to see the airplane he works on at the Sanfransisco airport. We headed up to see our friends in Los Altos. The kids loved going over the San Mateo Bridge. The kids enjoyed swimming in the pool while we visited.
We started heading our way back to our Hotel in Oakland. When we took a spare of the moment trip out to Half moon Bay. We were glad we did. We enjoyed the scenery but more important it was relaxing getting away from the population. The views were breathtaking. Timothy soon got frustrated in search of his pick for dinner. The first destination had to be worse than a hole in the wall restaurant, even I didn't want to go inside and I am used to going inside of them from growing up. The second place was abandoned and closed down. He finally located a taco shop just off the road and Nathan took a U turn to get us there. It was well worth it, it turned out to be the best Mexican food any of us had, (except Maria's) we all agreed on that. We got to go over the Oakland Bay Bridge to get back to the hotel. We made it back to our hotel and once again crashed into bed. I need to sign off for now so I can head to the Giants game.
Budget for this day.
Hotel- $85.68
McDonalds-$17.00
Guerreros Taqueria- $29.00
Toll-$5.00
Total-$136.68
Family Fun- Priceless
Day 9: Oakland A's game
August 8, 2012
We woke up early and left the hotel in Modesto and headed towards the Coliseum to see the A's take on the Angels. Of course you know who we were cheering for. The plan was for me and Sariah to go to the A's side for signatures and the boys to go to the Angels side. Sariah and I were very successful in getting the signatures, the boys were not, I was told that putting Sariahs cute face out there would get us signatures and it worked. We proceeded to watch an almost 4 hour game the final score was 9-8 with the A's winning. It was a great game. It was funny during the game Sariah had to go Potty 13 times, saw her uncle Bradley in a plane flying over us twice and talked about her Grandma Abbott taking care of her while I took care of Tim four times. It always amazes me how random she is!! We ended up being a little on the warm end when we thought going into it that we would be cold. We checked into the hotel about a 2 blocks away and collapsed for the night, we ordered take-in and watched the Olympics. It turned out to be our best nights stay on the road so far, with everyone sleeping through the night. It turned out to be a really fun day.
Budget for the day:
Hotel $85.68
Parking-$17.00
Lunch in the Park- $22.50
Tickets- $2.00 each x 5 plus processing- $18.50
Dinner- $19.50
Souvenirs- $12.75
Total- $175.93
FAMILY MEMORIES: PRICELESS
We woke up early and left the hotel in Modesto and headed towards the Coliseum to see the A's take on the Angels. Of course you know who we were cheering for. The plan was for me and Sariah to go to the A's side for signatures and the boys to go to the Angels side. Sariah and I were very successful in getting the signatures, the boys were not, I was told that putting Sariahs cute face out there would get us signatures and it worked. We proceeded to watch an almost 4 hour game the final score was 9-8 with the A's winning. It was a great game. It was funny during the game Sariah had to go Potty 13 times, saw her uncle Bradley in a plane flying over us twice and talked about her Grandma Abbott taking care of her while I took care of Tim four times. It always amazes me how random she is!! We ended up being a little on the warm end when we thought going into it that we would be cold. We checked into the hotel about a 2 blocks away and collapsed for the night, we ordered take-in and watched the Olympics. It turned out to be our best nights stay on the road so far, with everyone sleeping through the night. It turned out to be a really fun day.
Budget for the day:
Hotel $85.68
Parking-$17.00
Lunch in the Park- $22.50
Tickets- $2.00 each x 5 plus processing- $18.50
Dinner- $19.50
Souvenirs- $12.75
Total- $175.93
FAMILY MEMORIES: PRICELESS
Wednesday, August 8, 2012
Day 8: On the Road
August 7, 2012
We got out of the house today at a slower speed then expected, 9:30 am is late for us. We started the day off by getting gas and airing up the tires. Sariah was wanting to get a little cranky until we got to the hills on Old woman springs road, I think she believed she was on a roller coaster in Disneyland. I sat in the back seat with her,so Sam could sit in the front with his dad, his day wasn't going very well either. Sariah asked were we were going and I told her Vacation, she replied with "AGAIN" with an excited voice. We made it to Kramer junction for our first stop, the kids and Nathan all out voted me so we had Subway for lunch over Astro burger. I believe Sams day started out rough because of lack of sleep he slept from Bakersfield until our destination in Riverbank, for a total of over three hours. I drove from Kingsburg Until about 30 minutes from our destination so Nathan could Nap. I handed the driving over to him when the 99 freeway in Turlock turned into a rat race. We couldn't get over all the growth and population.
We were able to go see Nathans cousin and his family in Riverbank. They have 3 kids like us, but opposite 2 girls and then 1 boy. The kids had fun playing together. It was funny watching them before dinner around the pool, trying to get in but knowing they had to wait until after dinner. We were able to spend several hours with them. The kids loved swimming, talking and playing, they had fun!! It was fun catching up with them and finding out about there family and jobs. We headed to the hotel in Modesto and were able to get the kids settled down by 10:30. We were all tired after a 420 mile day. We are looking forward to the A's against the Angels game, we will be wearing our Angel gear. I will let you all know how that goes!!
Budget for the day:
Subway- $15.00
Hotel-$55.00
Total:$70.00
Spending time with family- PRICELESS
We got out of the house today at a slower speed then expected, 9:30 am is late for us. We started the day off by getting gas and airing up the tires. Sariah was wanting to get a little cranky until we got to the hills on Old woman springs road, I think she believed she was on a roller coaster in Disneyland. I sat in the back seat with her,so Sam could sit in the front with his dad, his day wasn't going very well either. Sariah asked were we were going and I told her Vacation, she replied with "AGAIN" with an excited voice. We made it to Kramer junction for our first stop, the kids and Nathan all out voted me so we had Subway for lunch over Astro burger. I believe Sams day started out rough because of lack of sleep he slept from Bakersfield until our destination in Riverbank, for a total of over three hours. I drove from Kingsburg Until about 30 minutes from our destination so Nathan could Nap. I handed the driving over to him when the 99 freeway in Turlock turned into a rat race. We couldn't get over all the growth and population.
We were able to go see Nathans cousin and his family in Riverbank. They have 3 kids like us, but opposite 2 girls and then 1 boy. The kids had fun playing together. It was funny watching them before dinner around the pool, trying to get in but knowing they had to wait until after dinner. We were able to spend several hours with them. The kids loved swimming, talking and playing, they had fun!! It was fun catching up with them and finding out about there family and jobs. We headed to the hotel in Modesto and were able to get the kids settled down by 10:30. We were all tired after a 420 mile day. We are looking forward to the A's against the Angels game, we will be wearing our Angel gear. I will let you all know how that goes!!
Budget for the day:
Subway- $15.00
Hotel-$55.00
Total:$70.00
Spending time with family- PRICELESS
Monday, August 6, 2012
Day 7: Home/getting ready to leave
August 6, 2012
Well we woke up to several loads of laundry and lots of house cleaning in preparation to leave tomorrow. We are also going to get together with some friends today. I am going to take the kids to the pool and they will also go to the park to play soccer. At the end of today we will go cheer Nathan on at his softball game, he is in a Mens league. I hope we are able to get everything done in time. Nathan ended up going to the game alone and of course hit a home run, he said it was because he kept his wedding ring on for good luck (he normally won't wear it worried he will lose it). I stayed home to get packed. Unfortunately in the process Sariah and Sam were wrestling and fell into the couch which resulted in a huge shiner for Sam under his eye and a bruise on Sariahs forehead. It was really sweet because Sam was hurt worse and sobbing but cryed for me to check on his sister because he was more worried for her. They are such good friends.
Well we woke up to several loads of laundry and lots of house cleaning in preparation to leave tomorrow. We are also going to get together with some friends today. I am going to take the kids to the pool and they will also go to the park to play soccer. At the end of today we will go cheer Nathan on at his softball game, he is in a Mens league. I hope we are able to get everything done in time. Nathan ended up going to the game alone and of course hit a home run, he said it was because he kept his wedding ring on for good luck (he normally won't wear it worried he will lose it). I stayed home to get packed. Unfortunately in the process Sariah and Sam were wrestling and fell into the couch which resulted in a huge shiner for Sam under his eye and a bruise on Sariahs forehead. It was really sweet because Sam was hurt worse and sobbing but cryed for me to check on his sister because he was more worried for her. They are such good friends.
Day 6: Home
August 5, 2012
Well we have survived the first part of the trip. We had a lot of fun and are looking forwards to much more fun. We woke up this morning and unpacked from our late night arrival. We all joined Nathan for church over in Yucca Valley. After church we stopped to see some friends. When we arrived home we enjoyed a nice dinner and family movie night. After the movie we decided to go out to our garden and see what was ready to be eaten. Here are some pictures of the garden.
The first cantelope from the garden, it was yummy!
Picture of the garden!
Well we have survived the first part of the trip. We had a lot of fun and are looking forwards to much more fun. We woke up this morning and unpacked from our late night arrival. We all joined Nathan for church over in Yucca Valley. After church we stopped to see some friends. When we arrived home we enjoyed a nice dinner and family movie night. After the movie we decided to go out to our garden and see what was ready to be eaten. Here are some pictures of the garden.
Day 5: Dodger Stadium
August 4, 2012
We started the day by sleeping in until 8am, this is sleeping in for our family. We enjoyed a nice relaxed morning at the hotel. We then headed out towards Dodger Stadium. We stopped by to see the San Diego Temple. We also were able to stop at a few stores on the ways to get some much needed Sunday items, shoes, socks and suits. We found a mall to shop and eat at. The kids loved being able to choose their individual place to eat. We were able to make it to Dodger Stadium 2 hour prior to game time, which was 15 minutes to late to get signatures (which they now allow). It was a great game, they played the Cubs and the final score was 3-1 with the Dodgers winning. We were able to get home right at 2 hours driving, It still made for a late night.
Budget for the day:
Tickets- $1.40x5 plus processing equals- $17.40
Parking- $10.00
Food- $21.50
Total- $48.90
We were shocked at how good our tickets were for the price we paid. It was probably because the were playing the Cubs.
Picture taken in front of the San Diego, CA temple.
Picture taken at Dodger Stadium, holding signs made by Timothy James Niles!
Standing on the level we thought we were sitting at, we were then informed we were two levels down!!
Kids excited to be at Dodger Stadium!!
Kids having fun at the game, Sariah seems to shut her eyes when she smiles!
We had nobody behind us until the 5th inning.
Say cheese!!
We started the day by sleeping in until 8am, this is sleeping in for our family. We enjoyed a nice relaxed morning at the hotel. We then headed out towards Dodger Stadium. We stopped by to see the San Diego Temple. We also were able to stop at a few stores on the ways to get some much needed Sunday items, shoes, socks and suits. We found a mall to shop and eat at. The kids loved being able to choose their individual place to eat. We were able to make it to Dodger Stadium 2 hour prior to game time, which was 15 minutes to late to get signatures (which they now allow). It was a great game, they played the Cubs and the final score was 3-1 with the Dodgers winning. We were able to get home right at 2 hours driving, It still made for a late night.
Budget for the day:
Tickets- $1.40x5 plus processing equals- $17.40
Parking- $10.00
Food- $21.50
Total- $48.90
We were shocked at how good our tickets were for the price we paid. It was probably because the were playing the Cubs.
Standing on the level we thought we were sitting at, we were then informed we were two levels down!!
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