Schipaanboord Family

FHE surprise

2011-04-10T22:39:00.003-06:00

The girls went on a fabulous treasure hunt tonight and found this wonderful treasure...Yep, we suprised the kids tonight with a trip to "DISNEYLAND," complete with Disney spending money!!!! We leave Wednesday Morning. Isabelle was soo confused when Hannah read the treasure. She kept asking where the rest of the clues were until Hannah started screaming and jumping up and down. It really was funny!

Isabelle's friend and family birthday parties

2011-04-09T22:37:00.014-06:00

You had a wonderful friend birthday party! You got to go with some of your friends to Cookie Cutters and have a party. Everyone got princess up-dos had their fingernails painted,and dress up like princesses
Then we learned how to wave a wand like a princess, curtsy like a princess and play princess freeze dance followed by a parade around the store and down the slide
Then you opened your presents and everyone ate cupcakes

She had a BLAST!

Later that evening we had all our family over to celebrate. You love Strawberry Shortcake so you requested a strawberry shortcake doll cake. You decided exactly how the dress was going to be decorated and would not let Grandma or Mommy share any ideas.

Stunned....

2011-04-08T22:16:00.006-06:00

I am not one to write about my emotions on my blog, but since this is my way of scrapbooking for my kids, I wanted them, especially Isabelle to remember this day.
Today was Isabelle's 5 year checkup with her doctor. After he was done with his usual yearly checkup, I told him I had some concerns about Isabelle's neck. About a month ago, I noticed when Isabelle tried to look up that she could not lift her head much, in fact very little. I asked him if this might be a result of her knock knees and that maybe her spine was affected by this. He asked Isabelle to look up and she did. He then had her look side to side. I could see by the look in his eyes that something was wrong. He immediately asked if there were any other areas of concern. I told him she had enlarged knuckles and that she scrunched her toes. After he looked them over he said he needed to consult with another doctor by phone and that he would be back shortly. I sat there for what seemed like hours. So many thoughts were running through my head. When he returned he asked me if I would take Isabelle up to Primary's to have her blood drawn. He told me he thought she had juvenile rheumatoid arthritis. My heart sank as I tried to hold back the tears and be strong so that Isabelle would not wonder why I was crying! As I stood up to leave, Dr. Lei hugged me and whispered, I am soo sorry, but I will do everything I can to help her. I could not believe this was happening. I explained to Isabelle on the way to the car, that the doctor wanted her to go to the hospital to have some blood taken. She was a little nervous but said, "OK mom, I'm a big girl." As we drove home, my emotions spilled over and I wept quietly. I tried so hard to shield myself from Isabelle's view. At one point she heard me sniffling and asked what was wrong. I told her I had something in my eye and that it was making me cry. I could not bare the thought of her having this disease. I knew that I was not emotionally stable to go to Primary's with her, so I called Ry and told him the situation and he immediately left work to take her up. They were gone for almost two hours. The tech's did not do a great job collecting her blood. They had to poke her three times and she cried to the tech the last time saying, "please do not poke me again." As I sit here typing this I am barely able to see the keys because of my tears. I pray that whatever the results, Isabelle will be able to overcome them. We will find out the test results on Tuesday when we meet with a pediatric rheumatologist.

Happy Birthday Isabelle

2011-04-07T23:25:00.008-06:00

Today you are five years old.I cannot believe how fast this last year has flown by. You woke up to your room decorated with a Strawberry Shortcake banner and balloons. You were soo excited for your special day!For dinner, we went to your most favorite restaurant, Tepanyaki's.Grandpa and Grandma Gorney and your cousins also wanted to celebrate your special day, so we went to their house after for some cupcakes and ice cream.

5 things about you:
-You have the most energetic, spunky, fun loving personality.
-You still love to snuggle.
-You love to tease your sister until she gets so mad
(or until I get mad).
-You tell me almost everyday that you are going to be a cheerleader when you grow up.
-You are accepting of everyone and want to be
everyone's friend.

Happy Birthday Bella Boo. We love you sooo much!

Planetarium

2011-04-06T22:47:00.001-06:00

Isabelle and I went to the Clark Planetarium for her preschool field trip today. We had fun watching the movie, but other than that it was not worth it. Even Isabelle was disappointed.

Spotlight Dance competition

2011-03-20T22:48:00.000-06:00

Hannah had a dance competition at Viewmont High School yesterday. Once again, her team did great! They received a Diamond rating for Never Fully Dressed and a Ruby for Chicago. The girls also participated in a dance down which was really fun for them.

The mini team with their Director, Cicily

Happy St. Patrick's Day

2011-03-17T23:23:00.003-06:00

Our little leprechaun paid a visit to our house last night.

Dinosaur Museum

2011-03-09T23:22:00.003-07:00

Isabelle's preschool has been learning about dinosaurs this last month. Her class went on a fieldtrip today to the Dinosaur Museum. She was so excited to go. Isabelle loved to hang out with her friend, Emilee.I tried so hard to get these two to smile, but all they wanted to do was make silly facesShe also enjoyed digging for dinosaur bones.It is always such fun to watch my kids learn new things and enjoy spending time with their friends.

Starpower Competition

2011-03-05T23:19:00.003-07:00

Earlier today was Hannah's first dance competition. The girls did such a fabulous job! I was surprised that Hannah was so at ease and ready to hit the stage.
With their "Chicago, Illinois" dance, they received a First Place trophy; 1st place overall; "Chic" Award and the Entertainment Award. "Never Fully Dressed," received a First place trophy and 2nd place overall. I am so proud of you, Hannah. You have worked so diligently and practiced soo many hours. The hard work paid off! You and your mini team did wonderful!

Daddy Daughter Dance

2011-02-27T23:18:00.001-07:00

Copper Hills High School's dance company had a daddy daughter dance last night. It was a Candy Land theme so the girls were so excited to dress up in bright colors.
They had such a fun time dancing with daddy and hanging out with the Fisher's.

Pajama Day

2011-02-18T23:18:00.007-07:00

Isabelle's school class had a pajama party at preschool today and boy was she ever excited! I dropped by a little early so that I could take some pictures of her class.
It was so fun to see her with all her goofy friends

Isabelle with her girlfriends, Emilee and Taylor

Happy Valentines Day

2011-02-14T22:47:00.003-07:00

The girls with their valentines envelopes
that they made at school
And Being Silly

Valentine weekend

2011-02-13T23:12:00.003-07:00

Since our Valentine's Day will be jam packed with school and dance, we surprised the girls with a fun filled weekend. We went out for dinner to the Mayan.This was our first time eating there and we loved it. We enjoyed watching the divers, the acrobatics and the fire dancers. The girls were mesmerized by it all.
While Ryan was getting the car, we had a little impromptu photo session with the hippo statues.

Then it was off to Fashion Place Mall to Build A Bear. The girls have been wanting new bears for a while now, so they were so excited!
They had such a fun time picking out their bears and finding the perfect outfits for them.Isabelle chose a purple Wizards of Waverly Place bear with a princess dress and Hannah chose a Pink and orange bear with a Wizards of Waverly Place outfit.

It was a good day. I am so grateful for my Valentines.

Happy Birthday to me

2011-01-09T23:11:00.002-07:00

I love to celebrate birthday's except for my own. However, Ry and the girls really made me feel wonderful today. Hannah was adamant with Ryan that I have a fabulous breakfast complete with a homemade card.She even cut my pancakes into shapes.

Bringing in the New Year

2011-01-01T11:08:00.008-07:00

Welcome 2011!!!

Christmas

2010-12-25T23:37:00.012-07:00

Santa paid a visit to our house on Christmas Eve.
Even after all the fighting and squabbling these kids did this year, Santa must have thought they were pretty good because he left some nice stuff under the tree. Forget all that delayed gratification mumbo-jumbo I tried to tell him about... ;)

The girls waited on the stairs while mommy got the camera ready to see what the family room holds for them.(They get pretty excited about that).

We oooo'd and ahhhh'd over each others' gifts for the next hour with wrappings filling our space (I love that).Sadly, I let Ry take the pictures this year while I videotaped, which explains the lack of pictures.

Then we headed off to the grandparents for more fun, food and presents.
Isabelle's gift from HadleeHannah's gift from MichaelMy sweet niece Teagan letting me know she is not fond of her picture being takenHannah tore open all her presents in minuteswhile Isabelle inspected each of them to decide which one looked the best to open first.
We had another fabulous filled Christmas!

Christmas Eve (Part 3)

2010-12-24T23:40:00.003-07:00

Back at our house we put out cookies, milk and carrots for Santa and his reindeers.
Let's hope Santa missed this...and saw this...Then it was off to bed with visions of sugarplums dancing in their heads.

Christmas Eve (Part 2)

2010-12-24T23:21:00.001-07:00

At Grandpa and Grandma Gorney's house for our traditional soup dinner. The girls with a little help from Uncle D, enjoyed frosting their cookies for Santa

unwrapped their Christmas p.j.'s
and enjoyed a little jig with Grandpa

Christmas Eve (Part 1)

2010-12-24T23:06:00.006-07:00

The part where we had lunch at Grandpa and Grandma Schip's house, with a whole slew of cousinsUncle Pete and Isabelleenjoyed playing spelling games

aaahhhh...

2010-12-23T22:49:00.000-07:00

Love moments like this!

school party and gifts

2010-12-22T23:02:00.007-07:00

Hannah's class had their Christmas party today and I was able to help. I was in charge of a game and so we played a wrap the present relay race. The kids had soo much fun. Hannah with her friends, Jenna, Kendyll and Katelyn

The girls also helped me make and deliver our neighbor gifts.We had such a fun time making these together and we even saved one for Isabelle.

Gingerbread houses

2010-12-18T23:01:00.012-07:00

I love gingerbread house making,
and so do these guys...They love to use their creativity to make the best houses.
Hannah's houseIsabelle's house went from this..to this...and Cooper's house unfortunately fell apartbut he didn't seem to mind at allWhat a fun night!

Mini team Christmas Party

2010-12-18T16:02:00.004-07:00

Hannah's mini dance team had their Christmas party this morning and had such a fun time. The girls had breakfast and then had their gift exchange. Hannah had chosen Cece and LaKyla had Hannah. Hannah was so excited when she got a baby zhu zhu pet with clothes. I am not fond of zhu zhu pets and did not want to buy her anymore, so I was thrilled that I did not have to.These girls have such a special bond and get along so well. It is so fun to watch.All of the girls put on LaKyla's makeup, but Hannah chose not to since we had another party after.

Hannah's weird tooth

2010-12-12T22:57:00.004-07:00

About a week ago, Hannah started complaining that her teeth were hurting. I looked in her mouth and she had a permanent tooth growing in behind her baby teeth. I tried wiggling her baby tooth to see if it was loose and it was, but she would not let me touch it. I made a deal with her that if she could pull it out within a week that we would not have to call the dentist, but if she couldn't then she had to have the dentist pull it out. Hannah despises going to the dentist so I thought she would be more than willing to wiggle that little baby tooth out. After a week the baby tooth was still no where near coming out, so I called Grandma Jan. She said that she would bring home some of the numbing gel and that she would pull it out for her.
We were eating at Ryan's parents today so I did not warn Hannah before we left because I knew that she would throw a fit. After dinner Grandma Jan asked Hannah to go downstairs with her. She told her that she had brought home the numbing gel and that they she was going to help her pull her tooth out. Luckily, she went downstairs and sat still for her. However, after she put the numbing gel on, you would have thought Hannah was being beat up. She was screaming so loud. Luckily, after about 10 seconds Jan had the tooth out.She had a little blood bubble in front of her permanent tooth, but luckily within a few days it will go away.

Ward Party

2010-12-11T23:05:00.003-07:00

Belle's Preschool Christmas Program

2010-12-06T22:56:00.007-07:00

This is the first year Isabelle's preschool has performed a Christmas program. Isabelle started the performance like this..but luckily ended it like this..Isabelle did such a great job and I am so happy that she became less nervous after the first song.Isabelle with her best friend, Emileeand here she is with her cheering section

Dear Santa:

2010-12-02T23:04:00.007-07:00

The girls could not wait to send their letters to Santa.
Hannah's wish list: an American Girl doll baking table and baking set, American girl doll clothes and coconut the dog, and a hippo pillow pet.Isabelle's wish list: a Just Like me American Girl doll and prailine cat, pink Ipod, and a ladybug pillow pet. Hopefully, Santa thinks they have been as good as they think they have been!

Principal's Pride

2010-12-01T22:53:00.005-07:00

Hannah received the Principal's Pride award today at school for listening and following directions and completing her work independently. She also has a great attitude. Ry, Isabelle and I got to eat lunch with her and watch her receive her award. Don't you love Isabelle's hands in the background.We are so Proud of you Hannah! You are such a wonderful student and are so smart. We are soo grateful to have you in our family.

He's back...

2010-11-27T23:10:00.006-07:00

Keke made his way back to our house this morning. The girls were so excited to see him.Let's hope he has good things to report to Santa this year.

Rivalry Game

2010-11-27T23:09:00.005-07:00

WOW!!!
After freezing our butts off and enjoying a sub par game, the Utes really made it all worth it in the end.The Utes won 17-16 on a last second field goal that was blocked.Love our UTES!!

Happy Thanksgiving

2010-11-25T23:52:00.003-07:00

After having spent a wonderful day enjoying family, food and love we headed home. We all snuggled on our bed and watched Santa Paws ( I cried through almost half of the movie). As I looked at my little family, joy, love and gratefulness in my heart radiated. I am so thankful that I have been blessed with a loving husband who does more for our family than he will ever know. For our two beautiful girls, whom have taught me the joys of motherhood and what unconditional love is. For the amazing blessing that I have been chosen to be their mom. They bring me so much happiness even on the days when they think I am the meanest mom in the world. I do not know where I would be without my little family.

Tangled

2010-11-24T19:22:00.004-07:00

We went and saw this tonight...Absolutely loved it!

Party in the USA

2010-11-13T23:05:00.005-07:00

This is how the girls spent most of their afternoon.

I love it when they are having FUN!

Halloween

2010-10-31T23:43:00.014-06:00

The girls and I started out the morning by going to Breakfast with a Witch at Gardner Village.Ry assumed it would be boring so he did not want to come, but it was soo fun.We dined on a delicious, frightening breakfast, met the witch royalty, Queen, Talulah Spellbottomand her attendants, Poppy Luna and Itsy BitsyThe witches performed a funny show that both Isabelle and Hannah were chosen to participate in. Unfortunately, Isabelle wouldn't participate.This will definitely be a new tradition.

Later that day, we went trick or treating at both grandparents and then came home and enjoyed our pumpkin shaped pizzas.

Then it was off to trick or treat in the neighborhood with Cooper.They once again received way too much candy. Isabelle will devour her candy over the next month and Hannah usually throws most of hers away.

it's pumpkin time...

2010-10-27T23:50:00.004-06:00

around here.

The girls loved their princess potato head pumpkins.
Loved choosing what shapes would be on their pumpkins.
Isabelle loved coloring her pumpkin too.
Are thankful daddy and grandma are so willing to clean out all the guck from the pumpkins.

The girls pumpkins
All of the pumpkins
We had so much fun!

Halloween dance

2010-10-26T17:16:00.005-06:00

Today Isabelle got to wear her costume to dance. She chose to wear one of Hannah's old dance costumes so she wouldn't ruin her Belle dress. In Jazz, they performed a dance to Witches Brew and in Ballet they danced around to halloween music. It was fun to see the silly side of these girls.Isabelle with her Jazz classIsabelle with Miss JennIsabelle and her Ballet classIsabelle with Miss Heidi and her friend Brynn

Best Friends

2010-10-23T23:17:00.004-06:00

Isabelle went to her friend, Emilee's birthday party tonight at Bouncin' Off the Walls. It is soo fun to see these two together. They are two peas in a pod. They make up silly jokes, love to have their hair the same way, both love strawberry shortcake and lip gloss, are always giggling, and are just the Best of Friends.

Gardner Village

2010-10-21T23:27:00.004-06:00

I took the girls this morning to Gardner Village. It just isn't Halloween without a trip to see the witches. The weather was perfect and luckily there were not a ton of people there. Hannah wanted her picture in front of every witch. We had a great lunch at Naborhood Bakery, complete with pumpkin shaped sugar cookies, and the girls rode the ponies.

Pumpkin Patch

2010-10-20T23:49:00.002-06:00

Since Hannah had a night off from dance, we decided tonight would be a good time to visit the pumpkin patch. It is a tradition to visit Mabey's pumpkin patch. The girls love to run as fast as they can to grab a wagon and down the field to find the best pumpkins.

Company Lateover

2010-10-08T23:29:00.002-06:00

Hannah's dance team had a late over tonight at the dance studio. She had such a fun time! They each had to bring something that describes them for each of her team members. She chose to bring a card making kit because she loves to do arts and craft projects. They played games to get to know each other better, made flip flops and a hair bow to match their warm ups, and ate pizza and ice cream.
The mini team: Hannah, Mia, Jersey, LaKyla, Cece, Sophie, Raegan, Nadia and Cicily (their director)

Patriotic Program

2010-10-07T23:14:00.003-06:00

Hannah's class performed a Patriotic Program this evening. They sang songs and each of the kids had a speaking part. She did such a fabulous job!

Hannah with her friends Emma, Kari and Kendyll

Oh My!!

2010-10-05T16:13:00.002-06:00

This is what I found when I was through cleaning the bathrooms today...She decided to put on some eyeshadow.
Isn't she beautiful!

St. George Weekend

2010-10-04T16:12:00.003-06:00

Hannah has been off track so we headed down to St. George to enjoy the weekend. We didn't realize it was the marathon, so it was quite busy. The girls were so happy being able to swim pretty much the whole weekend. We also enjoyed eating at the Brick Oven and seeing Tarzan at the Tuacahn. It was really entertaining. The girls were fascinated by all the swinging from the monkey.

Happy October!

2010-10-01T23:11:00.007-06:00

I love fall and of course Halloween! It was October 1st and we had waited long enough. I've been surprising my kids for the last few years with halloween goodies & jammies. They love this!
The house is all decorated and we enjoyed our halloween shaped pancakes for dinner. We are soo ready for all the fall fun!

A Day at the Zoo

2010-09-24T23:01:00.003-06:00

Isabelle had a field trip at the zoo today. Because of my health problems, I asked her who she would like to take her since I could not go. Her response, "Aunt Katie." So Isabelle called Aunt Katie and asked her if she would like to go with her and she said yes. They had such a fun time together! Isabelle's favorite animal was the baby elephant. She also had a blast with her friend, Emilee. I was sad that I could not share in these memories with her, but I am so happy that she has family who love her so much to create memories with her.

Masterpieces

2010-09-22T13:25:00.002-06:00

Here are a couple of fun masks Isabelle made this past week at preschool. They have been learning about animals because they have a fieldtrip to the zoo in a few days.

Teddy Bear Picnic

2010-09-09T16:16:00.003-06:00

Hannah's class had a teddy bear picnic at the park today and I was able to volunteer. Despite the chilly temperatures, we had a lot of fun. The kids played frisbee, basketball, and Red Rover and then we had lunch.

back to dance...

2010-09-07T16:13:00.001-06:00

Back to school also means Back to dance.

Isabelle is taking jazz/tumbling and tap/ballet combo classes.
Hannah has company jazz, jazz and ballet technique, ballet, and tap.

Luckily we have Wednesday and Friday's off.

Another Milestone

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

Hannah has been wanting to learn to ride her bike without training wheels for a while, but has been a little nervous. She asked her Dad to take the training wheels off her bike a couple months ago and he finally got around to doing it. Yesterday we went to my moms house to try, but her sidewalks are also on a hill so she wanted to wait until today to try in our church parking lot. She hopped on her bike and within a few seconds was off. I am so proud of her! She loved it. She immediately asked if she could go get her friends, so they could all ride together around the church. They had such a fun time.Isabelle joining in on the fun>

Lion King

2010-09-03T18:50:00.001-06:00

While Ryan and I enjoyed the evening at the Ute game, my parents took the girls to see the Lion King. They were so excited to have a date with Grandpa and Grandma. Unfortunately, Isabelle fell asleep at intermission and woke up about 15 minutes before it was over. They both told me they loved it, especially the gigantic animals. I asked my mom to take a picture, but she forgot. Thanks Dad and Mom for continuing to make fun memories with the girls.

Utes come out with a Bang

2010-09-03T15:57:00.003-06:00

Thursday night Ry and I went to the Utes football game. Ry and I have been talking for years about getting tickets and becoming a member of the Crimson Club and this year we finally did it. Utah beat Pittsburgh 27-24 in overtime. It was so much fun spending the evening with Ry, especially since it was a nail biter.Go Utes!

Preschool

2010-08-23T17:44:00.007-06:00

For about the last week, Isabelle has been counting down the days until preschool. She was so excited to have Mrs. Kristi and to finally be back in school with her BFF, Emilee. She loved preschool last year, but is even more excited this year because she will be learning to read.I won't lie, once again I shed a few tears.
I also had an after school treat for Isabelle. She had asked for cupcakes and insisted they have pink, purple and blue frosting. The pink were for her, purple for Hannah and blue ones for Daddy. Mommy was not lucky enough to get her own cupcakes.
She thought it would be funny to lick all of daddy's cupcakes. Isabelle, I hope you have such a great final year of preschool!

Second Grade

2010-08-16T21:42:00.000-06:00

Today was Hannah's first day of second grade and once again I got a little teary eyed. Hannah picked out her new backpack, lunchbox and outfit.And Let me just say her outfit was all about the SHOES!When Hannah first saw these shoes at Gymboree she had to have them. She was so excited that they had a wedge heel. When we picked up her friends they also could not get enough of her shoes. I could see her in the drivers mirror beaming from ear to ear. Ry, Isabelle and I walked the girls into school and found their class. Here is Hannah with her BFF's, Kendyll and Kari.They once again are in the same class. I wish their teacher "Luck" on trying to get these girls to stop talking!

It was nice to have to some alone time with Isabelle, but I know she was counting down the minutes until school let out. When Hannah came home, we surprised her with her favorite sugar cookies.She loved her first day of school and cannot wait for tomorrow.

Family Day

2010-08-13T21:23:00.007-06:00

Ryan took the day off and we spent the whole day together as a family. The girls wanted to go miniature golfing. Unfortunately, Ry and I were not thinking straight and we went at noon. The temperature was 100 degrees so we ended up playing really fast.
After we went to eat at Pei Wei. The girls ate enough fortune cookies for everyone in the restaurant.
Lastly, we went and had the girls ears pierced. I had told the girls they had to wait until they were eight to have their ears pierced. However, Hannah came home from summer dance camp bawling because she was the only person on her team who did not have her ears pierced and they have to wear earrings for their competition dances. So after talking to Ryan, we felt it was okay to let her have them pierced. We also decided not to make Isabelle wait.
What an ordeal! Isabelle did fairly well, held tight to the bear and did not shed a tear. I could tell she wanted to but she was so brave.Hannah on the other hand, was scared to death. She made Isabelle go first and then another girl go before she would even attempt to sit in the chair. She finally sat down and for the next 20 minutes there was a lot of kicking, wiggling, and crying from her. The ladies kept telling Hannah to say 1,2,3 when she was ready. She never said it so finally they just went ahead and did it without warning her. Thank goodness or we might have been there all night!

Sleepover

2010-07-31T09:15:00.003-06:00

Last night Hannah and Isabelle had their first friend sleepover. As part of Kari and Kendyll's (Hannah's BFF's) birthday gift Hannah gave them a coupon for a sleepover and boy were they ever excited. I wondered if I was crazy because so many of my friends do not let their kids have sleepovers anymore only late nights. Growing up our sleepovers were always so fun, full of toilet papering, usually the boy we liked or sneaking out of the house and having a great time. I know times are different now, but I cannot imagine my kids not having sleepovers.

The girls had such a fun time.They played for hours, watched Alvin and the Chipmunks Squeakel, ate so much popcorn and junk food, and finally went to sleep around eleven. The four of them slept on our blow up queen mattress and I slept on the couch. It wasn't the best night's sleep, but it was worth it because they had a great time.

Am I really old...

2010-07-27T09:08:00.002-06:00

according to Hannah I am. As we were driving to gymnastics the other day, Isabelle noticed an old building and asked if it was a barn. I told her that it was a long time ago. She asked how I knew that. I told her that I used to drive by this barn on my way to dance when I was younger. Her reply, "Wow, that must of been a long time ago." Then Hannah asks, "Mom did they have color when you were younger?" I think my kids think I'm older than the dinosaurs.

24th of July

2010-07-24T21:25:00.001-06:00

We started off the day by seeing this

We loved it! Such a funny movie. I love that it is all about the relationship of two sisters. It soo reminds me of Hannah and Isabelle.

Then we headed over to my parents for a BBQ. The kids loved the slip and slide, running through the water, having a water balloon fight and fireworks. We had such a great evening! Thanks Dad and Mom.

Fashionista

2010-07-23T16:42:00.003-06:00

While Hannah was at her BFF's birthday party the other day, Isabelle dressed up and performed dances for me. Don't you just love her outfit!She of course, put it together all by herself. And no need to ask her to pose she did that all on her own too!

Dance Camp

2010-07-15T00:03:00.006-06:00

Hannah has spent the last week at Artists in Training camp for the dance competition team she is on. She took classes from some professional dancers and choreographers from New York and LA. Never once did she complain about the six hours of classes every day.

She loved every minute of it!

Friends on the mini team: Catherine, Reagan, Jersey, LaKyla, Nadia, and Hannah

Happy 4th of July

2010-07-04T23:46:00.003-06:00

We had such a fun fourth of July filled with freedom, family, swimming, a yummy barbecue, playing games, and enjoying the fireworks.

Last day of First Grade

2010-07-01T23:17:00.003-06:00

Like I say every year, I wish time would slow down. I want my girls to stay young forever and with each passing school year they continue to grow up. Having been the room mom for Hannah's class this past year, I was able to plan an end of the year ice cream party. I was amazed at how much ice cream some of the kids could eat. Hannah has continued to amaze me with her smarts. She is on a fourth grade reading and comprehension level, aced every spelling test, learned how to count money, tell time, and has almost mastered her addition and subtraction. She has also become a social butterfly; she has so many wonderful girlfriends. Her teacher commented to me how Hannah always tries to include all the girls and was always the first to help her autistic friend, even when others were not as accepting of her. She also got a taste of having the boys chase after her almost every day at recess, although she insists she still does not like boys.Her classHannah and her teacher, Mrs. ReeceIsabelle, Hannah, Jenna and OakleyKari, Hannah and IsabelleHannah, Jenna and KendyllNow we can finally enjoy our summer and relaxed schedule.

Swimming

2010-06-30T22:55:00.006-06:00

Tonight was the last day of swimming lessons for the girls. They have been going 3x a week for three weeks. They both have loved it so much and have learned a lot. When we first started three weeks ago, Isabelle bawled and held tight to the lifeguards hands when they made her go off the diving board. By the end of lessons she was happily jumping off all by herself.Hannah is now able to swim across the length of the pool and has excelled in her backstroke and diving. The last couple of years she has not been fond of swimming on her back because of the water that gets in her face.

Things I like...

2010-06-27T16:20:00.000-06:00

At church today, Isabelle's teacher traced her body and added all the things Isabelle loves to do.

Toy Story & Taylorsville Dayzz

2010-06-26T23:07:00.003-06:00

We started the day off by seeing this...Absolutely loved it! I even got a little teary eyed at the end.
And ended it with...Family, food, games, rides, pop-its, sparklers, and awesome fireworks. We had a great time!

Year Round School...

2010-06-20T23:33:00.003-06:00

Have I mentioned how much I DISLIKE it!!!
Isabelle has been out of school for two weeks, her cousins just finished their school year and yet Hannah is still in school until the first of July. Whatever happened to enjoying the summer break!

Soaring Eagle

2010-06-18T12:10:00.001-06:00

Last night we went to an awards ceremony at Hannah's school. She earned the soaring eagle award. She had to complete a lot of extra work to receive this. To celebrate her award she chose to go to Coldstone.

Hannah we are so proud of you!

Just My Imagination

2010-06-13T21:57:00.004-06:00

The girls have been practicing their recital pieces for a few months and finally they were able to perform them. They had their dress rehearsal on Friday and their recital yesterday at Kingsbury Hall.

On our way to the dress rehearsal, Hannah was eating some cereal and lost her second tooth. She was a little nervous that it was going to continue to bleed and that it would hurt while trying to dance. But all went well.

When it was time for Isabelle's class to practice their dance, Isabelle sat backstage crying (hence no pictures of her dancing). Their chaperone came and got me and I went backstage to try and calm her nerves. Luckily, they ran the dance again and with a little bribing she was ready to perform it. Hannah danced in three numbers. Her Jazz dance was "Kaboom", Ballet was "Exploration" and her Tap dance was "Remains of the Day." They both did such a wonderful job.

That night the girls and I were able to attend their cousin Emma's dance recital. She did such a wonderful job and the girls were excited for her. Luckily, it did not last too long and the girls were able to get a good nights rest.The girls did so well at their recital. I was a little nervous that we would have a repeat of the day before with Isabelle, but she came out with a huge smile on her face and did the dance perfect. Hannah also did a fantastic job.

Thank you to Grandpa and Grandma Gorney, Grandpa and Grandma Schip, Jake and Kate and Jamie and Emma for coming and supporting them. I am so proud of the two of you. You spent countless hours at dance classes and both danced beautifully.

Last day of Preschool

2010-06-09T16:12:00.002-06:00

Today was Isabelle's last day of preschool. They celebrated the end of their school year with a water play day. She had so much fun on the bouncy waterslide and playing with her friends. She sure is going to miss seeing them twice a week. She has learned all of her letters upper and lowercase, how to write and spell her name, and some of the letter sounds. She already cannot wait until next year!

Teddy Bear Picnic

2010-06-08T16:01:00.000-06:00

For preschool today, Isabelle went to a park for a teddy bear picnic. She took her build a bear with her new outift that she picked out just for the occasion. They ate lunch, played some fun games and played on the playground. She had such a fun day!Isabelle with her BFF EmileeIt is sad to think she only has one more day of preschool left this school year. Time, "Stop!"

Last day of dance class

2010-06-07T13:01:00.000-06:00

Isabelle had her last day of dance today and was really sad. She has loved Miss Heidi, her friends in class and all the fun things she has learned. She loves to come home and show Hannah all that she knows. She even uses the handle on the refrigerator as her ballet barre, even though we have a barre in our play room.Now it is on to the recital. I cannot wait!

It's Raining....

2010-06-06T22:37:00.001-06:00

BUBBLES
Thanks Dad and Mom, the girls had a blast with these!

Park City Weekend

2010-05-31T20:51:00.002-06:00

After taking flowers to both mine and Ryan's grandparents, and my Uncle Pete's graves, we headed up to Park City for the weekend. We spent our time riding the alpine coaster, enjoying slushies, eating at Baja Cantina (great mexican restaurant) and swimming until we turned into raisins.We had such a great time and it was so nice to get away.

Shrek 3 - The final chapter

2010-05-29T17:25:00.003-06:00

Loved it!

Silly Hair Day at Preschool

2010-05-27T15:19:00.000-06:00

Do you believe in Fairies?

2010-05-26T15:43:00.003-06:00

WE DO!Yesterday morning while Hannah was eating breakfast she bit into her donut and her tooth started to hurt. She started running up the stairs to tell me and before she made it up the stairs, her tooth fell out. She was so excited! She has been wiggling this tooth for at least a couple of months.After Hannah got home from school we headed over to Grandma Jan's so she could sew the tooth fairy pillow I had made. I loved how it turned out and so did Hannah!
Hannah wanted to bring her tooth to show her grandparents so I put it in a ziploc bag. She left the bag on the kitchen counter and Ryan's aunt, whom was visiting from out of town, threw it in the garbage. We searched the whole garbage and found nothing. My heart sank and I was not exactly sure what to tell Hannah.
While I was trying to explain to Hannah what happened, her grandpa snuck the pillow and put a dollar in it and put it back without her seeing. When she saw the pillow, she was a little confused. I did not want to make the situation worse so I told her she still should put the pillow under her pillow tonight.We rushed home and put the fairy pillow under her pillow with a picture of her without her tooth. "She asked me if I thought the fairy would still visit her without her tooth. I said yes. But I don't have my tooth for her to add to the princess castle. What princess castle? The fairy makes her castle with all the teeth." I assured her she would not be forgotten.

When she woke up she was so surprised.The tooth fairy brought her $5 and a cute certificate. She started laughing and said, "I tricked the tooth fairy." She visited me twice." I was so happy she has such a creative imagination because what seemed like a really bad experience actually turned into a great one.

Wheeler Farm

2010-05-20T15:54:00.003-06:00

Isabelle's preschool had a field trip to Wheeler Farm today. We ate lunch, went on a hay ride, took a tour around the farm and fed the ducks. We had such a fun time! It was so fun to watch Isabelle interact with her friends. They are so cute and silly! I can only imagine the funny things they say and do in class.
Isabelle with her friends, Emilee, Ellie and McKinley on the hay ride
Feeding the ducks Isabelle and Emilee with their teacher, Mrs. AllisonWe could not get these two to leave. They kept chasing the ducks trying to catch them.

Patiently waiting...

2010-05-18T22:35:00.000-06:00

Last Saturday, Hannah tried out for one of the competition teams at her dance studio. She was so nervous and in her prayers every night has been praying that she made the team. We have been checking the mail everyday to see if her results letter had arrived and today we received it.
She made it!She was so excited and so were we! I am not quite sure how she would have handled it if she did not make it. Luckily, we did not have to cross that bridge.

Congratulations Hannah Banana! We are so proud of you!

Melody Choir

2010-05-13T22:58:00.002-06:00

Hannah participated in the melody choir this year at school and tonight they had their annual performance. It was an amazing performance. The program was all about the United States. They sang a variety of songs about different states. The did such an wonderful job! The best part was when they got to Utah and the kids were separated into two groups; the Ute fans and BYU fans and sang their fight songs! It was hilarious seeing these kids true colors come out. Go UTES!
Hannah with her friend DakotaI am so grateful for the two directors who created melody choir and gave so freely of their time without compensation so my child could have this experience.

More Birthday Fun...

2010-05-09T20:50:00.001-06:00

Celebrating Hannah's birthday with family

Popstar Diva Fling...

2010-05-08T22:45:00.001-06:00

Hannah's seventh birthday party

Mother's Day Tea

2010-05-06T23:44:00.003-06:00

Isabelle's preschool had a mother's day program today and it was adorable. Isabelle walked in crying and I thought for sure she was not going to sing, but I bribed her with a toy from Target and boy did those tears dry up quickly. She did a great job! After the cute program, Isabelle served me strawberry shortcake and gave me the gift she made.

I loved it all! Just a little sad I did not think to get a picture with my baby!

Annual checkups...

2010-05-04T17:24:00.001-06:00

What an event!!!!
Usually these are a piece of cake, but not today. The girls did great throughout the checkup and then the doctor said that Hannah had to have a blood draw. Her left ring finger is bent somewhat and her knuckle is bigger than the others. Dr. Lei wanted to make sure she did not have signs of rheumatoid arthritis (just what I wanted to hear). It took one nurse holding down one arm, another holding the other, me holding her knees and Dr. Lei holding her legs with Hannah screaming and crying at the top of her lungs. I felt horrible! I can only imagine what must of been going through her mind. Finally the needle was out and we were through. Hannah looked at all of us and said, "Wow, that didn't really hurt. May I please have my sucker now?" Amazing!

Hannah's 7 year stats Isabelle's 4 year stats
Height: 48 in. Height: 39 1/2 in.
Weight: 44 lbs. Weight: 33 lbs.

happy birthday...

2010-05-04T12:58:00.000-06:00

To celebrate Hannah's special day we went to lunch with daddy and went ice skating.
and sugar cookies instead of cake (Hannah's request)

Happy 7th Birthday

2010-05-03T22:17:00.006-06:00

Hannah's life...as it is today

She loves to do anything crafty and is always making cards or pictures for family and friends.

She likes to listen to her iPod loud. She loves Taylor Swift, Miley Cyrus and anyone on radio Disney. Although, she also has the soundtracks for Wicked, Mamma Mia, Hairspray and Enchanted on it as well.

She takes ballet, tap, jazz and jazz technique. She takes classes five hours a week.

She is a great speller and reader. She is one of the top students in her class.

She has a lot of friends.

Her best friends are Kari, Kendyll and Hailey.

She usually gets mad at her sister at least a handful of times throughout the day.

She is a member of the Melody Choir at school.

Her favorite response when we ask her to do something, "Just a second."

She would watch tv all day long if we let her.

Her nickname is Hannah Banana.

She is a very picky eater.

She is not very good at picking up her toys or clothes. We usually have to ask her more than once.

At night when she wants someone to sleep with her, she always says she had a bad dream, even though she never was asleep.

She calls her dad, baby tiger.

She asks everyday if she can have a friend play over.

When I am sick she always takes good care of me.

She dislikes most fruits and vegetables, but loves apples withthe skins off, grapes and cantaloupe.

She loves sugar cookies, especially the homemade frosting.

When she concentrates, she sticks out her tongue half way or bites on her hair.

She likes to wear her hair down with a headband.

She eats like a turtle {very slow}.

She is very competitive with her Dad especially when they play the Wii.

It usually takes her at least 20 minutes to fall asleep.

She loves FHE.

We love this girl more than she will ever know.
Happy Birthday Hannah Jane!

Principal's Pride

2010-04-21T22:25:00.002-06:00

Hannah received the Principal's Pride award at school today for receving 100% on all her spelling tests throughout the year and for excellent reading and comprehension at a third grade level (she is only in first grade). Isabelle and I (Ry was out of town) were able to attend a special lunch reception with her and her principal.

Hannah, we are so proud of you and all your educational accomplishments.

Patience...

2010-04-20T21:16:00.003-06:00

...is something I have a high deficiency in these days.

Although I strive to "keep it real" on this blog, sometimes the craziness still doesn't come through. I mean, sure, I'm there with my camera handy for many of the sweet moments. But no one happens to be there holding a camera when I'm stomping mad because my kids have ignored me for the ninetieth time in a day, or when I ask them to please get ready for bed for the 10th time.

I believe that if I had my own personal photographer to capture our life right now, I think we'd have a bunch of pictures of me with those little cartoon puffs of smoke coming out of my ears.

There are days when I catch a glimpse of what our lives are going to be like when my daughter's are teenagers and I am terrified. I look at other moms and ask myself, how are they so put together?

And then a "tender mercy" comes along and my girls are actually playing great with each other without arguing and listening to me which shows me how much they really do care.

Well, that snaps me out of my impatience for the day and my heart melts into their beautiful, radiant eyes.

Thank goodness for those little "tender mercies" to get me through sometimes!

Animal Report

2010-04-19T22:15:00.000-06:00

Hannah had to complete an animal report for her soaring eagle award at schoool. She chose to do it on Giraffes. She had to come up with four questions about giraffes and then find the answers to the questions. We researched the information on the computer and she typed up her whole report by herself. We also found some giraffe paper at a scrapbook store and then printed all the pictures she liked of giraffes off the internet and made a poster.Isabelle and I dropped in at her school to watch her present her report to her class. She did such a wonderful job!

Favorite present...

2010-04-11T10:08:00.001-06:00

We gave Isabelle a Barbie bike for her birthday. Since Wednesday she has riden her bike around on the tile floor downstairs any chance she gets. She loves the bike (as does Hannah) and especially the basket in the front that she carries all her goodies in.She cannot wait until it warms up outside so she can ride with Hannah.

Ooh La La!

2010-04-10T21:14:00.017-06:00

Isabelle loves Fancy Nancy books. About six months ago she decided she wanted to have a Fancy Nancy party for her birthday. So we had a Fancy Nancy tea party.After the party Isabelle told me what a fun party she had.I was thrilled!

Birthday Dinner

2010-04-08T15:33:00.002-06:00

Last night for Isabelle's birthday we went to dinner at Tepanyaki's. The girls were a little scared at first of the fire, but that changed quickly. They loved watching the chef throw the food in the air. They especially loved when he threw the shrimp in Daddy's, and G&G Gorney's mouths.

Isabelle's life...as it is today

2010-04-07T20:41:00.005-06:00

You have waited so long to be able to say that you are four years old.
It makes me sad and excited all at the same time. I cannot believe how fast time flies.
Here is a list of Isabelle's life...as it is today.

Her nicknames are Bella Boo, Bellabalooga, and Belle.

She loves to wear a swimming suit, leotard or tank top even in the winter. If you look underneath her clothes she usually has one of these on. Although I will not let her wear one to preschool and church.

She loves to snuggle.

She falls asleep within minutes after she lays down at night.

She loves to wiggle her bottom.

She will try anything and usually eats just about everything.

She rubs my bare arms to fall asleep at night.

She has preschool two days a week and dance one day a week.

She usually gets bored doing her homework and always wants us to finish it. Lets hope this changes as she gets older.

She loves Fancy Nancy books.

She loves anything sparkly and girly.

If she wants something very badly she always says, "Please, with a cherry on top."

She loves to play with the barbie doll house and is constantly changing the barbie's clothes.

She has a bad temper when she gets mad, which usually includes screaming at the top of her lungs and sometimes throwing things.

She likes to watch WordWorld, Super Why, Hannah Montana, Sonny with a Chance and anything Hannah is watching.

She pretends that she is talking on the play phone to her boyfriend. When we ask her who her boyfriend is she says, "Nate." (her uncle)

When she wakes up in the morning she always says, "Is it morning?"

She is very cheerful in the morning. She is definitely a morning person.

She is very outgoing and will talk to anyone.

She loves to sing Taylor Swift's songs, Love Story and You Belong with Me.
She has told us on numerous occasions that she wants to live with Cooper's Grandma (Grandma Gorney).

Her best friends are Emilee and McKinley.

She loves to take her vitamins daily.

When she does not want to do something, she says, "It's not my possibility"(responsibility).

She changes her clothes at least a handful of times a day.

We sure do love this girl and are thankful for her spunky spirit. She keeps things alive at our house.Happy Birthday Sweetheart!

Pre Birthday Fun

2010-04-06T21:01:00.001-06:00

Today at preschool, Isabelle's class celebrated her birthday. She took cupcakes for her friends and wore her new birthday shirt. At the beginning of the year, Isabelle and I decorated a birthday bag for her. She got to take it to school for each of her friends to put a present in. Today she was able to have her bag with all of her presents. She had such a fun day!Let the Birthday Festivities Begin!

Easter 2010

2010-04-04T22:56:00.005-06:00

Easter, as usual, was great. It was a crazy day, but thankfully still charged with some good spiritual energy due to it being General Conference weekend. The girls wore their Easter dresses to church last Sunday and looked adorable.
We started off the morning with our traditional note from the Easter Bunny (the girls left carrots and a note out last night) and the search for our baskets. The Easter Bunny always finds the best hiding places.

After watching the first session of conference we headed over to the Schipaanboord's for brunch and an egg hunt.The Schipaanboord cousinsThen it was off to G&G Gorney's for dinner and another egg hunt.

The Gorney cousins (minus Teagan)

Eggstravaganza

2010-04-03T23:40:00.004-06:00

We love coloring easter eggs. It's always a mess, but oh so fun.. Hannah was really into making them creative this year and even pulled out the rubberbands so that she had stripes on hers. Isabelle was loving the stickers and could not have enough on one egg. And well, our cousin Cooper, he just wanted to throw his.

Egg Hunt

2010-04-03T22:26:00.003-06:00

This morning our neighborhood had an easter egg hunt. Luckily, most of the snow had melted by noon, when the egg hunt was, but it still was quite entertaining watching the kids search for eggs under the snow. I am hoping the weather is nicer tomorrow so we do not have to search in the snow again. It was quite cold!
Hannah and Isabelle with cousins Emma and Cooper

Hannah's room

2010-03-29T21:20:00.003-06:00

This is what I found on the wall outside Hannah's room this afternoon.Obviously this was meant for Isabelle.

Preschool Easter party

2010-03-25T16:42:00.001-06:00

I dropped in during the last few minutes of Isabelle's preschool class today. I was able to catch a quick pic of Isabelle with her friends after their Easter party.She sure loves her friends!

Luck O' the Irish

2010-03-17T23:27:00.009-06:00

The leprechauns snuck into our house and turned everything green. They left a trail of shamrocks which led to their pots of gold with skittles and blinking shamrock necklaces.
During the night Isabelle needed a drink and when her and Ry were downstairs one of the necklaces started blinking. When she woke up the next morning she told us it was the leprechauns.

For breakfast we had lucky charms and green milk which Isabelle would not drink and for dinner we had green pancakes with green scrambled eggs.

I tucked away this lunch in Hannah's bag without her seeing so she would be surprised at school.Her lunch consisted of a peanut butter sandwich on green bread, green grapes, a green laffy taffy and a green glazed donut.
The girls in their green attire.Isabelle made this cute hat at her St. Patrick's day party at preschool yesterday.

Date with Grandpa and Grandma

2010-03-16T11:11:00.003-06:00

Last Saturday, my parents took the girls and their cousin Cooper to Disney on Ice. They had such a fun time.
Their favorite part was Tinkerbell and the fairies. Thank you to Grandma and Grandpa for a fun filled day.

Funny things the girls say

2010-03-10T09:59:00.000-07:00

A few days ago Hannah was being a little stinker and would not mind or listen to Ryan or I at all. I told her that her iPod was going to be taken away for a day and her response was, "If you make me go to school tomorrow, I am staying home and getting stolen so you never get to see me again." Not sure how school ties in with her iPod or how being stolen would make for a better life.

Yesterday we went to visit my dad after Isabelle's preschool. My brother Nate was downstairs asleep and Isabelle wanted my dad to go down with her to see him. My dad said that she needed to pay him money so he would gowith her. "She said, I don't have money. Well then I need hugs and kisses. She looked at me and said, Mom do you have any money?"