The Briscoe Bunch

So sad...

2012-02-01T16:36:00.000-08:00

I can't believe it's been almost a year since I posted on our family blog. I really have the desire but have yet to find time for this super important journal of our everyday lives for my children... I now commit to find that time!!

Where did February go???

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I can't believe it's gone, but here is what we did...

Visited friends

It was Mika's b-day (I actually think this must have been January, oh well)

Cuties under the slide

Mika! Nate really misses her.

Hung out with our BFF's...

Luke and Nate

Jack and Dillon

Jaelyn, Taylor & Jill (Pajama Day at school)

Valentine's Day

Had a little breakfast... chocolate chip heart pancakes!

Taylor made these in Activity Days for all of us with candy and cute notes!

Built some stuff...

little brother trying to help!

Dad watching them as his drinking his favorite... MD. Love the shirt!

And this amazes me... Jack made shoes out of electrical tape. Pretty awesome!

View from the top... his teacher told him to bring them in so she could see them.

Watched some plays..

GOLDILOCKS AND THE 3 BEARS... by Jack's 1st grade class

Jack was Daddy Bear

THE 13 COLONIES... by Taylor's 5th grade class

The George Washington in front of her

Her awesome teacher... it was dress up like your favorite character that day too. Can you guess who she is??

We also played with...

Mila... she is SO cute!

Went to the Monster Jam with friends

the adults...

the trucks (with my iPhone, forgot my camera)


the kiddos

Played a little T-Ball and skateboarded


Nate at his 1st practice (iPhone)

then at his 1st game.

Jack is taking a skateboarding class though the city... SKATEDOGS

He LOVES it! Finally... something he likes!

This is one of the instructor helping him jump a ramp.

Then of course, played this Wii...


we are pretty serious about Mario Kart, helmets and all!

GOOD BYE FEBRUARY...

Nate learned to Skate!

2011-02-05T08:39:00.000-08:00

We went to my older kids school skate party on Thursday and Nate decided he wanted to try on his own. He did AWESOME!

Good job Nater!

(blury pics are from my phone while I'm on skates)

And Jack won 2nd place in one of the races... FREE drink! Good job Jack!!

A little shout out to my hubby...

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who by the way, is very talented. He amazes me with the designs he comes up with on paper then transformed them into these awesome off-road vehicles or some other type of custom fabrication you could possible think of. He loves what he does and loves to share his ideas with our kids. They LOVE going down to the shop with their dad. Especially Jack... he goes almost every Saturday with his 2 tool boxes (both boys got new tool boxes for Christmas with REAL tools). Nate goes once in a while, but I'm sure it will be the same as Jack in a few years. Below are examples of what Jack and Nate accomplished with their dad.

In the past few months, Jack has been working on a new project, side panels for his miniature buggy, which is pictured below... Amazing!

All of my kids inherited Brandon's artistic abilities (mom has none). They are always drawing or doing something creative at home. Maybe one day my boys will take over our company, Twisted Tin, and Taylor can do the company finances (like mom).

Love ya babe!

My Little Valentines 2011

2011-01-29T13:54:00.001-08:00

Heart Stripe Red Valentine's Day Card

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Jack lost ANOTHER tooth!!

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New Year's Eve 2011

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Starting it off right by playing a game of Mario Cart on the wii while waiting for friends to arrive!

Then they slowly came...

Kristin and Jen

Sophie!!

Bob & Kim

Brian & Aaron

Kiddos playing the wii again!

And Nate & Shainie watched (look at those bellies!)

More talking...

More playing

And way too much eating...

And for some reason, there we no pics of Kristin and I on my camera... so I stole this one from Kristin's blog!!

Jennifer and Brandon playing Just Dance 2 on wii

Steve and Ruben!

Jennifer and Ruben

Steve and Kristin


Brandon and I

Highlights of 2010 warning it's a long one!

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So, we started out the year with our good friends, the Curfew's... they bought a little tradition from Louisiana. This yummy goodness is called a King cake and has a little surprise inside.

Jack found the surprise... it's a little plastic, naked baby. Hilarious!

New Year's kisses!

Later in the month, Brandon and his brother were able to race in the UTV event at Anaheim stadium at the Monster Jam. He had SO much fun and we had GREAT seats to watch (which is why you can see the net in all the pics!

Also, during the month of January (and almost into March), Taylor's fall soccer league team continued to play because the won the Region 56 U10 Championship... And went on to win the Area K Champions... then ended the season with a 2nd place win in Sections! It was an amazing soccer season... great job Taylor!

End of season party...

Taylor was also nominated at the end of the fall season to try out for All-Stars. She ended up making it on the All-Star Gold team for Region 56... it was an exciting team!

They also won the Region 56 Championship and the Area K Championship!! The placed 3rd in Sections. She was practicing 4 days a week and had at least 3-4 games a weekend because her fall team was still winning during All-Stars! She was tired but loving every minute of it!!

Taylor and her best bud "Bob" aka Amanda.

She also received her first Yellow card... she cried but her coach bought her a huge candy bar and told her he was Super proud of her aggression!

This was on our garage door when she woke up one of the championship games!

Great job girls!

Brandon's brother Cooper got engaged last year and this is a pic of Lisa and Taylor at Lisa's bridal shower. We love them! The wedding was in March... pics coming up!

This is just a random bath time photo... just cause it's cute!

This pic is of the good friends, the Arnolds! They invited us to our 1st hockey game... we LOVED it! Thanks Arnolds!

I look weird in the photo cause my allergies were killing me that night for some reason!

Here is Coop and Lisa at their rehearsal dinner... the night before the wedding!!

Here they all looking SO in love at their reception! It was a beautiful wedding and reception! SO happy for them!

Our little family was in the wedding...

Nater!

Jack and Taylor!

My boys rockin' out!

Go Jackboy!

Daddy and his girl!

Then came Easter... here are my little bunnies!

Jack and one of his creations at school... I love this!

Jack in his baseball gear... ready for a game!

We had a super warm spring break... so we went to the beach! We love living in HB!

Nate's 4th birthday was in April... we had a party with his friend Emily since they are both in April.

And we finally sent the binkies to the babies in the sky! Such a BIG boy!

Later in the month, we did some community service by cleaning up a park. The kids loved it!

Then Mother's day come around... we went to Stonefire Grill! Yummy!

In June, we went on our annual trip to Buena Vista with a bunch of friends. We finally decided to buy a tent big enough for our family... it worked out perfect!

Here's the boys ready to go out on the boat...

And the girls...

Brandon wake surfing

Nater... just cause he's cute!

We went to Disneyland before our passes blacked out for the summer... Sidney Steiner came along so Taylor had someone to ride the big rides with her.

Jack lost his first front tooth... and many more to follow!

And he graduated Kindergarten. LOVED his teacher, Miss Finnell!

These are Jack's best friends, Alyssa and Dillon!

Nate completed his first year of preschool with Ms. Cindy! We love her... she was Jack's preschool teacher too and her daughter was in Taylor's kindergarten class.

This is Nate's best friend, Luke! They play together every Tues. and Thurs.

Taylor had a great year too... with Mrs. Wu. She was really good to Taylor!

This is at Sports Day... Taylor loves this event at school!

Later, in June, we had visitors from Guatmala. The son became good friends with my in-laws while they were on a mission in Hawaii. He was getting married here in California and needed a place for his family to stay, so they stayed with us. It was fun getting to know them.

I ran my 1st 5K in July with Kelly and Autie... I was pretty proud of myself since I've never considered myself a runner. Now I love it! And I'm going to run another one in February of this year.

Daddy taking the boys skim boarding (Nate's first time). Love their shiny faces from the sunscreen!

Nate's 1st fishing trip on the HB pier with Grandpa! SO exciting!

This is what happens when you send the boys to the shop with their Daddy... they build COOL stuff.

Annual potato races at the church... Working hard!

This is Jack's

Brandon's

Nate's with a little something special!

Home Depot Kid's Workshop... they decided to paint them when we got home!

My Mom and Dad came out to visit last summer... we had a blast! We LOVE it when they come!

We went to the OC Fair. Gotta love the smell at the Centennial Farm... shew!

We had LOTS of fun! But I wish the weather had been a little nicer!

I got a new standup jetski... look who rides it more than I do!!! Brandon and Taylor...

Brandon and Jack...

In September... we went back east to visit my family and to support my aunt Pat. She was diagnosed with breast cancer and had to have surgery. She is now cancer free and we feel very blessed! Don't get mad at me Pat for posting this pic... I think you look beautiful!!

My mom buried by all her grandchildren... plus me!

The kids got to meet these two new cute cousins... Savannah and Alexandra!

This is Nate in the rocking chair that used to be mine when I was little... Mom, I want that one day!!

My aunt Jan and Pat with me on my mom's porch... Love this women!!

My uncle Ricky!

Uncle Junior and my kiddos! He loved playing volleyball with them.

My Mom & Dad's new home... love it!

Jack going for a ride with Papaw! We had SO much fun... can't wait to visit again!

Then the next weekend, we went on a canoe trip with a bunch of friends... minus Nate (next time buddy)!

The view from our canoe with all the canoes pulled together.

Some of us girls coming back from the hotsprings.

This is my first doughboy. Thanks Holly for introducing me to this yumminess!

Beautiful view!

My girl and I getting ready to head out.

Brandon in one of the caves... where the bats lived! Yikes!

1st and last concert with Brandon.. Carrie Underwood was AWESOME!

Halloween!

Beach in November... what?!?

Dirty kid

Taylor made her 1st breakfast... for Father's Day! Hey, where was mine?!?!

Our 2nd hockey game...again with the Arnolds! You guys ROCK!

My friend Kristin... love her!

Then in November, we decided to go to Cle Elem, WA to visit the Curfews and the McDonald family came too. It was beautiful up there... it was COLD and SNOWY! And we LOVED it!

Hot tubing in the snow at their house

LOVED this fire pole in this awesome house.

Dad having fun with his boys... yes, they have snowmobiles too!

We went shooting up in the mountains one day... here is Jack lovin' his gun!

Yep, I got a new gun too... don't ask me what it is? But it was fun!

Taylor's b-day present from Emily!

Cutie pie Pearce!

Thanks Jeremy and Emily! We had a blast!

Then we headed back down PCH and stopped a few times.

1st... San Francisco! Kiddo on a trolley car.

Alcatraz in the background

It started raining, so we took the kids to the Aquarium of the Bay. They are inside a fish tank in this pic.

Then we headed down to beautiful San Simeon...

and visited the elephant seals.

And we FINALLY stayed in a decent place our last night before heading home... the whole trip (besides the beautiful Curfew Ranch) we stayed in a Motel 8. The last night we decided to upgrade and stay at the Blue Bird Inn in Cambria. It was SO cute and the kids loved having a fire place. We will definitely stay there again.

But while we were gone, Cooper and Lisa had their baby!! Mila was born the day before Thanksgiving (you little stinker, you couldn't wait for your auntie to get home!!!)

A week later... Jack turned 7!!

Then of course, my Christmas Day baby... Taylor turned 11!!

I can't believe how big my kids are getting. I love them SO much.

We started a new tradition this year... open Christmas Eve PJs!!

It was a great year... I feel very blessed to have such a wonderful family. I love you all!

A new year is coming...

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and I'm going to get this blog going again. I want my kiddos to remember the fun things we have done so I WILL get this updated. Please stay tuned...

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Noir Stars Christmas

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Taylor & Jack's Half Birthday

2009-08-24T08:16:00.003-07:00

When my mom & dad come to visit, we usually have a half birthday party for Taylor and Jack since they both have December b-days. Jack's is December 5th and Taylor is December 25th (my Christmas baby). So you can imagine why it's easier and much more fun for them to have half birthday parties. This year we decided to go to Color Me Mine (which is a place you can color your own pottery for those of you who don't know) and we let them invite one friend each. We all had so much fun!

All of us...

Workin' hard!

My Mom and Dad (love you)!!

Brandon working on his masterpiece.

Nater...love that smile!

Taylor... the birthday girl!

Jack... the birthday boy!

Aunt-to -be Lisa! We missed you Cooper (he had to work late).

Aunt Amanda and cousin Cody

Payton and Dean (Taylor and Jack's friends)

Visit from Mom & Dad

2009-08-24T08:16:00.001-07:00

My parents come and visit us at least once, if not twice a year and we LOVE it when they come! They came back in July but haven't had a spare moment to post... summer is crazy (but so much fun). Hopefully, when the kids go back to school, I will have more time to post. We'll see! Here's some pics from their trip here (I forgot my camera most of the time).

We went to Ruby's on the pier to eat...

Mom & Dad lookin' so cute!

All of us

Dad in his usual position... "watching TV"

We went to Bella Terra for some lunch and shopping.

Dad and the boys!

Mom and Taylor after their shopping spree at Justice!

Dad, Jack and I

My kiddos and my parents

Nate is 3!!

2009-06-25T16:41:00.000-07:00

My baby boy turned 3 April 28th (I'm trying to catch up). He is really into Monster Jam trucks right now... so, of course, we HAD to have a Monster Jam birthday party. He talked about it all month and it finally came! Here are some pics of the fun...

Bounce House/Slide before the craziness!

Texas sheet cake made into a Monster Jam track.

Nate and his best friend Mika!
Friends!!

Singing Happy Birthday and Nate waiting patiently to blow out this candle.

Quick family picture... where is Taylor?!?

Bring on the pinata! Go Nater!

We found Taylor!

Friends collecting the candy and toys!

Happy Birthday Nate! We love you SO much!

Jack's 1st School Award

2009-05-14T10:06:00.000-07:00

Jack received his first award at school for "Perfect Attendance." He was soooo excited!

This is his Principal, Ms. Stucken (his teacher) and Jack.

Nate is proud of his big brother!
Great job, Jack! We are so proud of you!

Just one picture... is that too much to ask?

2009-04-24T17:41:00.000-07:00

So, I finally had a chance to download the Easter pics my friend Emily tried so hard to take for me after church... The pics are beautiful with the exception of Nate's mean look in almost ALL of them. He was being such a stinker. He's almost 3... what should I expect, right?

Although, I do love this picture of my boys.

Taylor and Jack sitting in a tree...

He would not look at Emily for anything.

My Taylor
Captain Jack
The start of trying to get everyone together...

Almost... (btw Brandon was sick this day, so that's why you won't see him)The sun was in Jack's eyes... Nate still mad
Nope...

What is Jack looking at?

Oh well, this one is good enough!

Thanks so much Emily for all your hard work!

Happy Easter!

2009-04-11T09:29:00.000-07:00

Just want to wish our family and friends a very blessed and Happy Easter!

T-Ball Begins for the Devil Rays!

2009-03-07T14:14:00.000-08:00

Jack's first T-ball game was today and I have to say... I love it! They are so cute! Here are some pics from today and a video of him at the end.

We were a little early (not like the Briscoe's) so I took this pic before he got dirty! Jack's first hit of the game.

Safe at 1st base!
Playing catcher

Look at that cute bum!

He's under that hat somewhere.

Game over... nice job Devil Rays!

Here's a video...

Trip to Lake Havasu

2009-03-04T12:10:00.000-08:00

We went to Lake Havasu this past weekend to watch Brandon and Brian race in a 300 mile jetski race. We were excited because the weather was supposed to be really nice... in the 80's, which is perfect for Havasu. But, it ended up being extremely windy and cold most of the day, which is why we are all wearing winter clothing. By the middle of the day, it warmed up some and we had a good time just hanging out... mainly because the jetski broke after 2 laps and they didn't have the parts to fix it. Oh well... they can try again next year.

Brian & Brandon before the race... burr

Taylor and her new friend Mia (her grandpa is Mark Hahn, which is who this race is named after... he unfortunately had a heartattack and died during this same race about 3 years ago)

Nate hanging with his big brother, Jack and friend HunterBrandon... my cutie (love him in a hat)
Me and my nephew Cody

Nate throwing rocks The Briscoe Trio... Amanda, Brian and Cody

For Grandma & Grandpa Briscoe

2009-02-20T12:55:00.001-08:00

My in-laws just left for a mission to Hawaii last week, so I thought a I would put some pics up for them of their grandbabies and the last dinner we had before they left.

Dinner at Stone Fire Grill... yum!

Cody & Jack

Cody & Nate
We miss you two... Nate wants to know where Poppa is?

I've been having lots of fun....

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with my hubby. First, we went to Supercross with the Curfews. Brandon and I go to Supercross every year. That was one thing we had in common when we first met... going to see dirt bike racing. I have to admit it was mainly about the hot guys when I first starting watching it, but I grew to love it since I spent most of my childhood on dirt bikes and quads. I know... I'm a girl and I'm not supposed to be into that stuff but I LOVE anything offroad. Especially, if I'm racing in it! Here are the only pics we (well, Emily) took at the Supercross.

Jeremy & Emily

Me & My Cutie

Then, a few weeks, later we went to Laughlin to watch more racing but this time with Trophy Trucks, Buggies, etc. The Curfews came with us again... Jeremy was in heaven. I loved his reaction to being in the pits. It was so much fun! Brandon was especially nice to me that weekend... He went store to store, casino to casino, just to find me some trash magazines to read in our down time. AND he got me Starbucks hot chocolate whenever I ask too... what and no strings attached?!? Such a sweetie! Here are some pics ...

This is one of the trucks Brandon has worked on for our friend Ross.

Brandon, Bob, Jeremy and me

This is that truck again Brandon worked on flying off a jump.
These raccoons were eating from peoples hands at the hotel near the water.

I love spending time with my hubby. For Valentine's Day, my brother-in-law and sis-in-law said they would take the kids all night so we could have a night for just the two of us.... well, of course, one of my kidos gets sick and ends up spending the night with us. Brandon was the best dad ever! It was Nate that had a fever so we dropped Taylor and Jack off then headed to the mall. First stop was Target to get an ear themometer so we could get a more acurate temp since mine said 103.1 and freaked me out! I had given Nate some Motrin so by the time I took his temp again, it was 101.5 (a little better). Then we decided to hit the food court for our Valentine's meal (yummy...not) then head to Victoria Secret for my gift, well mainly his. We almost missed out because apprently the mall closes at 7... WHAT?!? But we made it and got a little something for later. We got home, watched a movie and put Nate to bed. It was still kinda early so we decided to watch another movie. By 10, we were both falling asleep so I decided to check on Nate and take his temp... it was back up to 103.5 and his little heart was racing. So I woke up Brandon and we decided he needed a blessing. Our sweet friend Steve came over to help with the blessing and we put him back to bed and.... we went to bed. Happy Valentine's Day! Here is a picture of what we bought.... still in the bag waiting!

Fun Valentines Day Giveaway: Cuties California Mandarins

2009-02-06T15:08:00.000-08:00

My friend, Jen, is having a contest on her Skinny Habit's website. Read below to find out how to win some yummy cuties for your kids!

This Valentines Day, send your child to school with a fun, unique Valentine! The folks at Cuties have donated 5 boxes (5 lbs each) of special Valentines Cuties to lucky blog readers!

These special Valentine Cuties are bite sized, easy-to-peel, and super sweet mandarin oranges that make the perfect classroom treat. They are a great healthy alternative to candy. Each one has a special Valentines Day sticker on it, with sayings such as, "Kiss a Cutie," "U R A Cutie," "Sweet Cutie," and "Valentine Cutie." Kids love the removable stickers.

Go to her website to sign-up... Skinny Habit's ! Thanks!

Starting out the year right....

2009-01-20T18:48:00.000-08:00

I just realized the other day that it's been 12 years since I moved to California and I have to say I love it more and more every year. But my first year here was the worst... in fact, I cried on Thanksgiving and Christmas because it just wasn't the same feeling without my family and the change of seasons... falls leaves for Thanksgiving, snow for Christmas. But my attitude has definitely changed and why you ask...

Well, mainly, because how many places give you snow for sledding, skiing, snowboarding and... 80 degree weather for the beach in JANUARY! We have already had so much fun in 2009 and this is how it started...

On New Year's Eve, we decided to take the kids sledding with the McDonald family, so we drove to Mountain High which is about an hour and a half away. We stopped at the local gas station to pick up some sleds since they don't sell them in HB and up the mountain we went... then we saw some people in the distant off to the left and thought we would see what they were doing. So... here are the pictures from our adventure. The video is the best...

This is the hill we found...Can you see how fast they were going by Hannah's hair?

Our two little cuties... they are trouble together!

This is Jack hanging on for dear life!

Nate and Me

Taylor, Nate (in between)and me

The McDonald family (little Ewan asleep)

Our family

The Dad's and Kiddos

First, is Patrick and Hannah, then Jack, then Brandon (the bump at the end just about broke our tailbones)

Then a couple weeks later... the weather changed to 80 degrees (sometimes hotter) and we went to the beach. So fun...

Sarah and Taylor

Jack buried by his friends.

Jack boogie boarding

Cody (my nephew) first time at the beach

So this is why I love living in California...

Christmas 2008

2009-01-03T16:34:00.000-08:00

We had a really nice Christmas at the Briscoe home... here are some pics and videos of our day.

Night before Christmas...stocking where too full to hang from the mantel.

Taylor lovin' her lotion set.

Nate's Cookie Monster Pillow that's almost bigger than him.

This is Taylor's reaction to the big surprise... after seeing the cute socks!

Jack's reaction to his big surprise... from Daddy!

Looking through the new scope.

Loving Daddy after the big surprise. Nice pjs babe.

Big brother helping Nate with his gift.

Nate's favorite... a blue sword.

Merry Christmas Family and Friends

2008-12-24T21:55:00.000-08:00

Just wanted to take a moment and say Merry Christmas to all of my family and friends! We were so blessed this year and owe it all our to Savior. I feel very blessed to have the gospel in my life and pray that you may all feel that sweet spirit as we celebrate Christ birth tomorrow. I feel so honored to have a baby girl born on that same day... it's an extra bonus for our family. We want you to know we love and think of you all even though we are miles apart from many of you. We hope you all have a Merry Christmas and blessed New Year!

Just because he's cute...

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here is a video of Jack singing at Preschool and I know my Mom & Dad would enjoy this. Merry Christmas Mom & Dad... we miss and love you lots! (btw... he's the one in the blue shirt in the back row)

Here is a picture of the kids with Santa... love these cuties!

Happy Birthday Jack Boy!

2008-12-13T16:47:00.000-08:00

We celebrated Jack's half birthday back in July when my parents were here but I wanted to let him know how much we love him on his real b-day which is December 5th! I ask him what he wanted to do on his REAL birthday and he said "Let's go bowling" and I said "Fun... let's do it!" So last Friday our little family went bowling and we had a blast. I think Nate enjoyed it more than any of us. We got bumpers for the kids lane and Brandon and I had a lane to ourselves. I stunk so bad Taylor beat me by 50 pins!! Oh well! Here are some pics below of us from Brandon's phone because my camera died.

My favorite things about Jack...

*His wrinkle nose smile!

*His 5 minute hugs!

*His sense of humor!

*His comeback skills (just like his dad)!

*His inventions!

*He is so smart!

*He is the definition of a boy... loves to seek and destroy!

Thanksgiving

2008-12-03T18:02:00.000-08:00

SO... I'm a little late. What else is new? I just can't keep up! But we had a really nice Thanksgiving this year. We have alot to be thankful for and we feel very blessed!

It was just the Briscoe clan... Grandpa, Grandma, Brian, Amanda, Cody (our new addition), Cooper, Lisa, Brandon, Taylor, Jack, Nate and me, of course. Our dinner consisted of many yummy things but the most interesting was the Turduken... you ask "What the heck is a Turducken?" Well, it's a turkey, duck and chicken all in one after it's complete. You have a turkey (deboned), then a layer of dressing, the duck, another layer of dressing, and then the chicken. My brother-in-law, Brian, started preparing it at 5pm the night before Thanksgiving and didn't finish it until 2am!! Then it was in the oven for approx. 12-13 hours! But it was SO moist and quite tasty. The duck was alot better than I thought it would be. It's pictured below...

After dinner, we had our 3rd annual "Reading of the Family Feathers." Every year we send out feathers made out of construction paper to our family in the mail and have them write what they are thankful for the past year on the back. It's alot of fun and interesting to see what they will write. Then we make our turkey out of the family feathers! Our turkey turned out great this year!Thank you to all the family members how participated! We love you all!

Twilight Night... Edward!!

2008-11-26T09:45:00.000-08:00

We had our long awaited Twilight night on Friday and it was worth the wait! I have never been in a movie where people screamed as soon as the movie started... it was hilarious! Everytime Edward or Jacob come on the screen the girls just went crazy. It was so fun and it was definitely worth the wait. But I have to say, at first, Edward wasn't my favorite (not MY Edward) but he grew on me and I'm excited to see it again. We had a great night and yummy CPK food! Can't wait for the next one... Love these ladies... Kristin, Kelly, me and Amber

Introducing...

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the newest Briscoe boy to our family. This is Cody Shawn Briscoe, born Oct. 30 (I'm a little late with this post) around 3 in the morning. He was 7 pounds and is such a cutie! His mom, Amanda, is doing great and recovering from a c-section and his dad, Brian, is SO proud.

I love it when they are all swaddled up!!Taylor, Jack, Nate, Cody and Brian (maybe Uncle Cooper will bring us some girl cousins, Taylor)

Halloween 2008

2008-11-07T10:06:00.000-08:00

Finally... here are the pictures from Halloween! We had such a great time with the kids this year. Nate now knows what Halloween is all about... he ran house to house saying his version of "Trick or Treat" and said "Thank you" to everyone that gave him candy. He wouldn't put his Thomas the Train costume on but he let Brandon paint his face after seeing his big brother Jack get his done. So Brandon made him look like Jack Jack from the Incredibles and I put his spiderweb jacket on... so it worked out. We stayed in our neighborhood and hit all the fun spots which is the house with the cotton candy (the guy has been doing this since Brandon was little) and the Haunted House house, which is just a blow up version that looks scary in the dark. They gots lots of candy and they were in bed by 8:30!!! Success!

Cotton Candy house

Haunted House

Did you know...

2008-11-05T12:42:00.000-08:00

if you put pumpkin seeds in a bowl they will grow?!? The night we carved our pumpkins, I decided to keep some seeds to roast later, but never got around to actually cleaning the seeds. So a couple of days later... we started seeing little buds growing from the seeds. I started sprinkling water on them every other day and this is what has happened! Amazing, huh? No dirt or anything else.

Happy Birthday Babe!

2008-10-28T10:30:00.000-07:00

Brandon's birthday was on Sunday... but we started his birthday on Thursday by celebrating at the Melting Pot! Yummy! If you've never been... you HAVE to try it! Fondue heaven! But I'm so bummed because I forgot my camera so we have no pictures from the event ! But I got a few shots of his little family party we had on Sunday. He requested a chocolate cake with pudding in the middle. So I made that with homemade cream cheese frosting with a little orange food coloring to make it a little Halloweeny! The kids decorated the rest of the cake! Happy Birthday babe - we love you!

Pumpkin Patch

2008-10-19T22:00:00.000-07:00

We went to the Pumpkin Patch on Saturday at Irvine Park. We've never been to this Pumpkin Patch before and there was so much to do! We mainly did all the free stuff and didn't stay very long because it was SO hot! It's supposed to be cooling down here in Cali but not yet. We are still in the high 80's and are really ready for some fall weather. But the kids had fun and that's all that matters, right?!?

My three cuties!

Patrick & Mika going into the Haunted House... and them coming out!! She hated it!

Jack, Alex, Nate and Taylor (I love their faces in this pic)
Jack and Hannah

Brandon pushing Nate... that was hard work. I did it the first 3 laps!

Nater!

Powder Puff Race for the Cure 2008

2008-10-14T21:33:00.000-07:00

This past weekend was SO much fun... we took 5th in our class!! It's my second year racing this event for Breast Cancer and it was huge success! There were over 200 cars. They have raised over $120,000 the past two years from this event. I had a new co-driver this year... my good friend Kim Dunn. She was a firecracker!! She did awesome and we had a blast. Amanda, my sister-in-law, was my co-driver last year but she is 8 1/2 months pregnant with a new Briscoe boy!! We missed having her with us... but she needs all the rest she can get!

Getting ready for the start...
Coming out of the pits... here we go again!
My cute family...

I just want to thank Brandon... he is the best, most supportive husband in the world! He has built two race cars in the past 3 years and I have raced them both... not him and he couldn't be happier. He, along with Kim's husband, Bob, our friend Justin, my father-in-law Larry, and my brother-in-law Brian worked many long hours trying to get our Arcticat in tip top shape! And it was... nothing went wrong at all... we finished all 88 miles with no problems. Thank you so much team for your hard work. And thank you Kim for being a great co-driver! "Go left, Go left... No my left!!"

Jack and Soccer...

2008-10-09T19:09:00.000-07:00

This is my favorite age to watch my kids play soccer. Taylor was picking flowers at this age and Jack... well he is looking up in the air and spitting at who knows what or waving to us as he chases his teammates who are kicking the ball. It's hiliarious and I love it! I really thought he would be more aggressive but no, he's not. He's just really happy to be out there running around and thinks it's awesome if anyone scores... even if it's the other team! Gotta love him!! Here are a few pictures of our soccer boy.

YES on Prop 8

2008-10-02T20:34:00.000-07:00

I'm really not a political person... I don't like to talk about politics! But tonight I'm feeling extremely worried and passionate about a proposition passing here in CA and really feel the need to do as much as I can to help it get passed. My main concern is my children - I want to be the one to teach them about marriage, not the school. My friends who live here know what this proposition is about... for those who do not, the amendment says "Only marriage between a man and a woman is valid and recognized in California." I have already walked door to door, made phone calls, made donations (not as much as the NOT so sexy anymore Brad Pitt has AGAINST this prop) and now want to share on my blog. Please watch this video if you have any doubt about why this prop needs to be passed... http://link.brightcove.com/services/link/bcpid1815825713/bctid1819819843

If you still have doubt, read below...

Below are Six Consequences the Coalition Has Identified If Proposition 8 Fails:

1. Children in public schools will have to be taught that same-sex marriage is just as good as traditional marriage.

The California Education Code already requires that health education classes instruct children about marriage.

Therefore, unless Proposition 8 passes, children will be taught that marriage is between any two adults regardless of gender. There will be serious clashes between the secular school system and the right of parents to teach their children their own values and beliefs.

2. Churches may be sued over their tax exempt status if they refuse to allow same-sex marriage ceremonies in their religious buildings open to the public. Ask whether your pastor, priest, minister, bishop, or rabbi is ready to perform such marriages in your chapels and sanctuaries.

3. Religious adoption agencies will be challenged by government agencies to give up their long-held right to place children only in homes with both a mother and a father. Catholic Charities in Boston already closed its doors in Massachusetts because courts legalized same sex marriage there.

4. Religions that sponsor private schools with married student housing may be required to provide housing for same- sex couples, even if counter to church doctrine, or risk lawsuits over tax exemptions and related benefits.

5. Minister who preach against same-sex marriages may be sued for hate speech and rish government fines. It already happened in Canada, a country that legalized gay marriage. A recent Faliornia court held that municipal employees may not say: "traditional marriage," or "family values" because,after the same-sex marriage case, it is "hate speech."

6. It will cost you money. This change in the definition of marriage will bring a cascade of lawsuits, including some already lost (e.g., photographers cannot now refuse to photograph gay marriages, doctors cannot now refuse to perform artificial insemination of gays even given other willing doctors). Even if courts eventually find a favor of a defender of traditional marriage (highly improbable given today's activist judges), think of the money-your money- that will be spent on such legal battles.

And think of all the unintended consequences that we cannot even foresee at this time. Where will it end?

It's your children, your grandchildren, your money, and your liberties.

Lets work together to protect them.

Tribute to Paul Newman

2008-09-28T21:01:00.000-07:00

I had to give a little tribute to Paul Newman... he was my all time favorite actor! He died a few days ago at the age of 83 of cancer. I could watch Cool Hand Luke over and over just to look him and his famous blue eyes. My dad and I practically begged a movie theater to give me this awesome poster that was displayed of him so I could take it home and hang it in my room when I was young. I still to this day love him and I'm sad to see such a TRUE movie icon pass on. He was such a gentlman and also a very generous man... he donates ALL the millions he receives from his "Newman's Own" dressing company to charity. He thought it was hiliarious that his dressing made more money than his movies.

Creativity emerging...

2008-09-26T13:47:00.000-07:00

from my kidos this week. Taylor was getting ready for soccer practice when she realized she didn’t have any clean socks (yes, I’m a little behind on laundry) so she decided to cut up a pair of her tights that were way too small. So small in fact that I don’t even know why they were in her draw. This is how they turned out… kinda cute huh? The same day, Jack was upstairs being very quite so I knew he was up to something. Well, he was coming down the stairs yelling “Mom, guess what?” but I couldn’t see him yet. So I said “What, Jack?” He jumps out from the bottom step and yells “I’m the King of the World” and below is what he was wearing. Look a little closer and you will realize his cape is the skirt for a Christmas tree! I tried so hard not to laugh out loud because he was so proud and acted like he was the “King of the World!” I love my kids imagination and wish I had some of their creativity! Nothing is impossible to them!

What?

2008-09-20T10:10:00.001-07:00

So I actually slept in this morning for the first time in weeks... and when I say sleeping in I mean sleeping in until 8:00am. That's late for me. This was my plan, so last night I got milk ready for the kids in the fridge and told them to get poptarts in the cupboard when they woke up in the morning for breakfast. So my plan worked except for Taylor decided she didn't want poptarts. She didn't eat anything which I didn't find out until just a few minutes ago when I told her she needed to get ready for soccer because we have to go to Target before the game at 11:15. Then my mother-in-law says "Taylor will probably need a snack before the game" and I said "Oh yea, I'll fix you a pb&j sandwich." Taylor says "I didn't have breakfast" and I said "What, why not?" She says "Oh, it's ok, just run me to Starbucks!" What? We laughed out loud!! What am I teaching my kids!

First Day of School ...

2008-09-17T20:16:00.001-07:00

Yes, I know I'm a little late! They've been in school almost 3 weeks now and I'm just getting this posted... oh well! Jack is in his 2 year of preschool and loves it! He is so excited to be with his friends and loves his teacher! The first picture is of the day we went to meet his 1st teacher. She was really nice and I say "was" because I have switched him to a different class now. The one he was in was a little too young for him so I moved him to a different school within the district that has more kids his age. The next picture is from his 1st day and if you're wondering what is on his shirts... it's The Hulk! He just had to wear it!!

Taylor is now in 3rd grade... a big jump I hear from other moms! Lots more homework which we have already experienced from the 1st day. Yes... homework the FIRST day! But we love her teacher. She's great! It was also alot of fun shopping with Taylor this year for school. She had to get more stuff that was JUST for her like notebooks, folders, etc. and it was fun to see her style she picked out. AND apparently "No one takes a backpack mom, I just need a shoulder bag" (see picture below) I found the greatest deal on one at TJ Max!!

Girlfriends... aren't they cute?!?

Mom and her baby girl... she's gonna be taller than me in now time!

The Fun Days before School (I'm still catching up)

2008-09-14T16:40:00.000-07:00

We had a yummy BBQ at our friends house on Labor Day with lots of food and swimming. The kids and dads had chicken fights, a contest jumping through a hoop without touching it and who could do the best flip. Lots of fun and good sleep that night!

Taylor lost this round of chicken fighting!

Dads taking a break to cook on the bar-b!

Eatin' good stuff...

The Sim family relaxing in the hot tub.

Then had an awesome day at the beach with more friends the day before school. I know I've said this before... but we love living at the beach! It's so nice to spend all day then have a 2 minute ride home for showers!

Two cuties...

Friends..

Messy cuties...

Playing in sand...

Disneyland & California Adventure in one day...

2008-09-05T12:12:00.001-07:00

Taylor, Jack and I went to Disneyland & California Adventure last month (yes... I'm still trying to catch up my blog from summer) for FREE thanks to our good friend Max! We had a blast! We rode just about every ride there was in Disneyland and spent a little time in California Adventure. We were so tired from Disneyland that by the time we got to Cal. Adv. we were pooped! It was alot of fun and nice to be able to play with the kids without Nate for the day. He's fun but he can't ride all the big rides just yet... so we'll take him next time! Love ya Nate!

Here are some pics from our adventure..

Taking a break out of the HOT sun!

We didn't want to stand in line to see Winnie the Pooh, so we cheated and took this picture (look how sweaty Jack is... yuck).

Drivin' the big red car!

Taylor always posing... look closer and you can see Jack inside the pumpkin.

My bug eyed kids. We saw a really cute show in "A Bug's Life."

Taylor showing off her Minnie Mouse earrings.

Grandma Briscoe's 90th Birthday

2008-09-02T21:18:00.000-07:00

Brandon's Grandma came to HB a few weeks for her 90th birthday. We had so much fun with her. We had a birthday dinner for her at Mario's then came back for a yummy dessert and presents. Then the next day the Briscoe girls took her to lunch and then went to see Wicked at the Pantages Theatre which was just AWESOME!! I recommend this show to everyone!!

Amanda (prego w/new baby boy briscoe), me, Grandma Briscoe and Nancy

Larry, Grandma, Jack, Taylor and Nate

I've Been Tagged...

2008-08-30T15:33:00.000-07:00

Only because I love and miss you Holly!!

My 3 Joys: My family, any combo of peanut butter/chocolate, sitting on the beach watching my kids play

My 3 Fears: My family being hurt, sleeping closest to the door (wherever we are I make Brandon sleep on the side that is closest to the door), belly buttons (don't look or touch mine)

My 3 Current Obsessions: Reading, blogging, taking pictures of my cute kids

3 Surprising Facts: I'm a coal miner daughter, I lived in a place called Big Stone Gap (Virginia), and I have to have dessert daily (stole that from Kristin but it's definitely true!!!)

I tag Lindsey, Tamara, Gina, Nicole, Kelly, Robyn

My Kids Version of "So You Think You Can Dance"

2008-08-28T15:33:00.000-07:00

Our family was really into "So You Think You Can Dance" this season... so much so that my kids decided to make their own dance show. Taylor's friend, Sidney, was the judge and Taylor and Jack were the performers. I just about peed my pants from laughing so hard when Jack came out with his shirt off and hair slicked back (all Taylor's idea)!! There were so cute I just had to share...

Jack's solo... dancing for his life!!

Happy Birthday Kelly!

2008-08-26T16:29:00.000-07:00

We (Kristin, Kelly, me, Laura, Amber, Myrna and Susan) had a much deserved girls night out last week for Kelly's birthday... Pinkberry and a movie! (I stole this picture from Kristin because I forgot my camera... thanks Kristin!)

I MISS MY PARENTS...

2008-08-19T20:17:00.001-07:00

SO MUCH! I wish they lived closer! My kids love having them here and really miss them when they're gone! They came to visit last month... I'm just very behind on blogging. But we really had the best visit ever! We even had a 1/2 birthday party for Jack and Taylor since their birthdays are in December (Taylor is ON Christmas Day) which is the hardest and busiest time of the year to have birthday parties. We also went to the beach, the OC Fair, had a girl’s day of manicures and pedicures, a boy’s day of fishing, swam at the pool at their hotel and sooooo much shopping which really makes me miss my mom because that’s what we used to do the most when I lived at home. That was our time to talk and catch up on what was going on in my life while I was growing up. Mom & Dad… I really love and miss you so much! Thanks for all the memories while you were here… we had an awesome time.

Taylor, Jack, Mom & Dad (Nate wouldn't cooperate, as usual)

The 1/2 year b-day party for Jack & Taylor!

The Beach...

Dad and Nate taking a stroll.

My cute Dad and................... my sexy Momma!!

The cute couple!

Nate flirting...

The OC Fair...

Lovin' the fair!

Riding the ponies... Nate wouldn't cooperate AGAIN!

Can't wait until next year!!!!!

Summer is too busy...

2008-08-13T22:27:00.000-07:00

for blogging!! Anyone else having the same problem?!? So, sorry Mom & Dad... I know you want to see more, but time is not on my side right now, but I promise there will be ALOT to see soon. I'm very behind on posting updates but I'm keeping up with taking pictures of what we have been doing this summer, so hang in there and I'll let you know when I'm done! Love ya!!!

Instead of a Bedtime Story...

2008-07-27T15:34:00.000-07:00

why not go quad riding? Jack says!! And why not, I've already bathed you ALL, brushed your teeth and you are ALL in your pajamas!!! But ok... let's go! Earlier that day, Brandon promised Jack that when he got home from work he would take Jack riding on his quad. So even though Daddy didn't get home until 7:30, Jack still remembered and really wanted to go riding. What else can you do... a promise is a promise. So I threw sweatshirts on all the kids and we went to the park in our neighborhood to ride before it got too dark. It was alot of fun and the kids loved being in their PJs!

Jack is SOOO fast on this thing... full throttle everytime and he actually controls it really well.

Taylor really WANTS to go fast... but I'm sorry to say her brother beats her at this!

And of course Nate had to have a turn!

Had to throw in this picture... kinda shows you how BIG Hank (our dog) is compared to Nate.

Girls Just Wanna Have Fun!

2008-07-22T15:37:00.001-07:00

We had a fun week a couple of weeks while watching one of Taylor's friends named Nicole... she is so sweet and lots of fun! They had soccer camp that same week so we were out of the house by 8:45 everyday to get there by 9am and back at the house by 12:30. And you would think they would be exhausted after 3 hours of soccer camp... but no, they were ready for more fun. So one day we invited some more friends from camp over and broke out the slip 'n slide. After the slip'n slide they just HAD to do makeovers. See the cute pictures below...

Taylor, Blu, Nicole, Micaela and Sidney

Jack had his first year of soccer camp too. He's excited to FINALLY play this fall.

Jack and Taylor

Jack would not sit any closer to the GIRLS!!

Taylor's First Breakfast

2008-07-20T12:35:00.000-07:00

Taylor made her first breakfast on Saturday. She made a bear pancakes and scrambled eggs and they were delicious!! She really enjoys helping me cook, which I love because when I was a kid a hated helping my mom cook and have regretted it! I would probably be a better cook if I had helped more. Oh well, at least I have a great little helper for me!! Thanks Taylor... I love you!!

Look out!! Jack is on a 2-wheeler now!

2008-07-14T13:23:00.000-07:00

So last week Jack decided it was time to take his training wheels off his "motorcycle" (which is really his bicycle, but DO NOT call it a bike or you're in trouble). So I told him to call his Dad at work and tell him take them off when he gets home. Brandon was so excited, as was I, but wondering if he would really do it. We have been wanting to take them off for a while, but with no agreement from Jack. So as soon as he got home he took them off and ask Jack if he wanted help. Well... Brandon held on to his seat for maybe 2 seconds and he started riding like a champ! He even did a little wheely!!! See the video below... I was shocked!!

Visit from the Sechrist Family

2008-07-10T14:55:00.000-07:00

A couple of weeks ago we had a visit from the Sechrist family and it was a blast! Lindsey is like a sister to me... I just love her!! So when she said she was coming down... I was so excited even if it was just for a day and a half! We, of course, went to the beach as soon as they got here and it was a little on the cool side but it was still beautiful. The kids hit it off right away and had so much fun! I took pictures at the beach but had my camera on the wrong setting so none of them turned out but thanks to Lins we have pictures of the fun!

Dylan trying to eat grapes and also stay warm!

Lindsey, Nate and me

I love this picture of Jared and Lins - so cute!

Taylor and Dylan

Later that night after dinner the kids decided to put on a show for us in the "under contruction" living room as you can tell by the video. It's a little long but hilarious. Taylor is on the drums (and bossing everyone as usual), Jack is playing the tamborine (which is really his bear that makes noise), Cole is playing the piano and the star of the show is Dylan on the guitar! Yes, two kids are missing... Nate and Brock. They were doing who knows what...

The next day we went to the beach again... so much fun and still a bit chilly. Afterwards we went home, showered and went to main street for an early dinner at Mo's BBQ. Yummy! Then it was time for them to get on the road back to Vegas. I'm so glad they were able to come down... it was so much fun. We have promised to make it happen more often since we are only 4 hours away. And the boys (meaning Brandon and Jared) have already planned a hunting trip in October and I'll come visit in Vegas! We miss you Sechrist family!

Love Livin' in HB

2008-06-27T15:29:00.001-07:00

Last Saturday we were able to go to the beach as a family... Brandon had been working so much during the week and needed some family time! We decided to go to here in HB and we had a blast. It was a beautiful day... and the water was actually refreshing instead of freezing like normal. I even got in the water which is REALLY not normal! Brandon was all smiles because the kids officially learned to boogie board and Nate had his first experience in the water! He loved it! He even through a fit when Brandon tried to bring him in for lunch. We had so much fun with the kids and some friends who joined us! Makes us appreciate living here in HB!

Brandon and Nater!

Taylor and Nate on the beach.

Jack catchin' some air thanks to Dad.

Jack on his own and Dad all smiles!

My Birthday Week...

2008-06-26T13:48:00.000-07:00

This was definitely a birthday not to complain about... yes, I turned 35, but it was so much fun and I don't feel 35 so who cares!! I feel very blessed at this point in my life. I have a wonderful husband, 3 super great kids and friends that are so sweet and caring and I just love them all! My birthday started the day before the actual date which was the 23rd of June. The Briscoe family had a party for me at my brother-in-law's home with yummy food and dessert. Then on my birthday, my mother-in-law Nancy, said she wanted to take me out to breakfast... so I got ready as fast as I could because she said she had to be back to help my father-in-law and off we went. Well... when we got to the resturant, I see all these people with their menus covering their faces. They were my good friends pictured below... Holly, Natalie, Jen, Amber (with baby Caden) and Kelly. I was so surprised!! Nancy's not in the picture because she had to leave early. Then I had so many phone calls this year to wish me a Happy B-day from friends and family... I love them all!!

But my day didn't end there. My hubby took me out to dinner that night at BJ's and we didn't even get a pazookie - he offered and I said "NO, I'm trying to be good." Then on Wednesday some more of my friends met up at Pei Wei for dinner and a little chit-chat, then we had Pinkberry (frozen yogart with fresh fruit for those who don't know) for dessert which is now one of my new loves! I'm so sad because I forgot to take a picture of all of us before we left, but I did get one of me and Jen enjoying our dessert. (And don't you just love my new Roxy purse I

received from Kelly and Amber - LOVE IT!)

Taylor's Last Day of 2nd Grade...

2008-06-21T15:39:00.000-07:00

Whew... what a year it was for Taylor. It started off a little difficult for her teacher. She had 3 Taylor's (2 with the last name starting with a B) and also two Blake L's in her class. Pretty cruel of whomever put that class together... but it worked out ok. Taylor was known as Taylor Ann all year so her teacher could keep them all straight. Her teacher was AWESOME and Taylor did wonderful this year! She had a few issues with math in 1st, but triumphed in 2nd. It’s hard to believe I will have a child in 3rd grade next year and I’m really emotional these days about how big my kids are getting. (But that’s another issue to post for a later date!) I’m so proud of Taylor and all she accomplished this year! Good job Taylor!

Below are some pictures of the end of the year party for her class! They had sack races, water balloons tosses, and lots of fun stuff.

This picture below is Taylor's teacher tossing water balloons at the class after the game was over because if was so hot!!!

Also, for Taylor’s last day of school, her Grandma Briscoe got her tickets for them to see High School Musical at the OC Performing Arts Center. They went with Alex and Hannah McDonald and their Grandma McDonald. They had a blast. Below is a picture of Taylor and her Grandma all dressed and ready to go!!

Jack's Last Day of Preschool...

2008-06-21T15:23:00.000-07:00

But he still has one more year before Kindergarten because he misses the cutoff of Dec 1 just like Taylor. Doesn’t matter to us… cause he is growing up so fast anyways! He had such a great experience in Preschool this year! His teacher was AWESOME! What I love about his teacher and the HB District Preschool is the academic aspect of the program. It’s fabulous… Jack already knows all of his ABC’s (upper and lowercase), counts to 30 and can write his name. I’m so proud of him! Below is a picture of Jack and his teacher Ms. Cindy and also of him and his buddy Chase. They had a pizza party for their last day and it’s was fun (and a little teary eyed for mom).

Happy Daddy's Day

2008-06-15T21:46:00.000-07:00

I had to post a couple of gifts the kids gave to Brandon. They love their Dad so much. He is the fun one in the family... always wrestling with the boys and making Taylor laugh out loud! He definitely acts like a big kid but is such a great Dad! I love him so much and feel very blessed to have him as a husband and dad to our kids! Happy Father's Day Brandon - we love you!

Jack's Present - I love the 6 months old and 50 ft tall.

One of Taylor's present - I couldn't scan them all, but I love the last sentence! She came up with these on her on.

And I love this picture below because this is a Dad at his finest moment - asleep with his boy and his dog. (Jack was about 3 months old)

Happy Father's Day Dad

2008-06-15T21:39:00.000-07:00

I just wanted to wish my Dad a Happy Father's Day - I wish I could do it in person and give you a big fat hug and kiss! I love you Dad! I miss you so much and can't wait to see you and Mom next month! I'm so sad I don't have a picture to post - all my pictures are in storage! But I just have to let you know you are the BEST and I cherish the memories and moments we have together! Love you!!

Father/Sons Bonding...

2008-06-14T14:15:00.000-07:00

Brandon, Brian (his brother) and Larry (his dad) went on a pretty exciting outing - Boar Hunting at a family friend’s home, Don Jones, in Tehachapi, which is about 3 hours from us. It is really beautiful up there... lots of mountains with trees and wildlife. Cooper (my younger brother-in-law) was supposed to have joined the boys, but they had to change their trip to the middle of the week instead of the weekend, so it didn’t work out for Coop. So anyways… they had a blast. The first day, they didn’t have much luck with shooting boars, but they had a great time squirrel hunting. (I have a hard time thinking of those little squirrels, but they say they shoot them for coyote food, so I feel a little better about that.) The second day was much better, Larry and Don shot one boar, but it got away. Brandon and Brian accidently walked up on three sows (female pigs) and ended up shooting two of them from about 10 feet away. Brandon talked of using his big pig knife if he got the opportunity, but quickly changed his mind when one of them decided to charge him! In the end they got their pigs (one is pictured above and Brandon's shirt is off because it was covered in pig blood - sorry readers for the graphic details). They gutted and skinned the two sows and brought home lots of meat, which will turn into sausage for future use. They really had a great time and Larry was beaming with pride when he returned home with his boys.

Mother's Intuition I Didn't Listen To and....

2008-06-11T11:46:00.000-07:00

Taylor REALLY didn't want me to blog this. But since this is my journal and I don't want to forget about these small happenings and why I need to listen to that still small voice we all hear time to time. So here is what happened... Taylor was asked over for a play date last Friday at a friend’s house to swim. My first instinct was "No" which I thought at first it was because she had a soccer/pool party in just a few hours and I knew she would be swimming there too. But I went against what my gut told me and let her go. They haven't had a play date in awhile and they call quite often. Anyways... about an hour later, I get a call from the Dad saying "Tragedy has struck again" - meaning this isn't the first time she's been hurt at their house. She broke her finger at their last year playing with a pitch-back machine. We had no Health Insurance at the time. So my heart sunk not knowing what he was going to tell me. He said they were playing outside, they decided to come in and they were running and she tripped on the sliding glass doorframe… fell on her FACE and broke off a piece of her front tooth - YIKES! Of course I can hear her screaming in the background and he said he's bringing her home. Needless to say she was still freaking out when she got home and it was worse than I thought. And remember, she had a end of the year soccer party to go to and she was so worried everyone was going to laugh at her because of her tooth! So finally I calmed her down to take a look. She wears a retainer and it cut the gum behind her tooth so it looked pretty bad. So I quickly called my friend Amber who is a dental hygienist and her brother is our dentist. I told her what happened and she came over to look at it to make sure we didn't need to go to the ER. She then called her brother who works 1 Saturday a month and luckily this past Saturday was the one - THANK GOODNESS! We went to his office and he fixed it within an hour and said it doesn't look like the root is damaged. It looks awesome! Thanks Amber and Dr. Miller! So what is the lesson here – LISTEN TO THAT STILL SMALL VOICE. Even if it’s about a play date!! (picture above is the before shot)

5 Things We Are Grateful For...

2008-06-09T09:33:00.000-07:00

Ok - so I've got to get better at this weekly posting... I completely forgot last week so we are doubling up!!

Brandon is grateful for our kids... they were so much fun the week before last, we just had a blast with them. This week he is grateful for our family and friends that supported our Grand Re-opening at our shop. Check out w ww.twistedtinmotorsports.com/.

Michele is grateful for getting through the week before without any injuries with the kids. This week I am grateful for the sweet prayers I hear the kids say during breakfast, dinner and bedtime... I just cherish their sweet thoughts. Nate just starting (at least trying) to sing I Am A Child of God that we sing before bedtime everynight and I just love it!

Taylor is grateful for spending time with Daddy so much - he has been home so much more and she is enjoying every moment with him. This week she is grateful she was able to go to the Twisted Tin Re-opening and to see friends there.

Jack is grateful he could see his friends at school the week before. This week he is grateful to spend time with his family and dance at the Twisted Tin Re-Opening with the band that played there... he has some good moves!!

Nate is grateful for la-la (that means his drink) this week and his sucker that is all over his shirt in the picture below!

Weekly Fishing with Grandpa

2008-06-05T22:15:00.000-07:00

This was an exciting trip to the HB pier this week for Jack and Grandpa Briscoe. Jack caught a guitar shark which has spikey things on it's back and Grandpa caught a seagull (don't ask - he wasn't very happy)! They really look forward to their little weekly outing and Nate is waiting patiently to go when he gets older (not really - he cries everytime). When Grandpa Lewis comes out in July, Nate will get to go with them! Two little boys and two Grandpas to help!

No Self Control over Sweets

2008-06-03T14:06:00.000-07:00

I'm blogging right now because my boys are napping, my daughter is still in school and instead of doing the laundry or something else NOT fun, I really want to sit in front of the TV and eat chocolate chips cookies that Taylor just HAD to have at Target. In other words... I have no self control right now. I really want those cookies but I promised myself that TODAY would be the day I started Weight Watchers over again. Since our anniversary trip, I have not done so well at sticking to WW and I'm really upset about that because I had lost 8 pounds in 2 1/2 weeks and was feeling great. So here I go again... wish me luck!!

A Day in San Onofre...

2008-06-01T16:17:00.000-07:00

On Saturday, we went down to San Onofre with a bunch of families... it was sooo much fun! I have to admit I was a little worried at first because when we left Huntington, the skies were gray with a little sun poking out and it was 68 degrees. Not really beach weather, but it ended up being beautiful blue skies and very sunny. It was about 78 degrees and a little windy but very nice. In fact, we were all fooled by the coolness thinking the sun would not be very strong so most of us (especially Brandon) got fried by the sun! The kids had so much fun... they played all day and the adults surfed, relaxed and played a little bocce ball. Below are some pictures of our day...

Two little cuties... Jack & Hannah

Two more little cuties -

Nate and Mika... playing and hugging (love that cute sandy bum)

Dad and Taylor on their way surfing

Brandon, Taylor, Patrick and Alex

Brandon and Taylor waiting for the perfect wave

Our future surfer... for now he'll stick to the boogie board!

Jeff Jensen... playing with the kids. They loved him!

Alex and Taylor posing and playing

Friends soaking up the sun... Jen, Holly, Stephanie, Jen and Amber

Happy Birthday Mom!!

2008-05-29T13:34:00.001-07:00

It's my mom's birthday and for her sake I will not tell you her age! She looks wonderful and I feel so blessed to have her as a mother. I miss you Mom and wish we lived closer. But since we don't, my kids wanted to sing Happy Birthday to you a special way this year instead of over the phone. So here it is... push play! Happy Birthday Mom! We love you and can't wait to see you and Dad in July!

Love These Girls!!

2008-05-27T19:06:00.001-07:00

April, Julie, Susan, Kelly and me

We had such a relaxing girl's night out the last week. (I'm just getting this post up today because I forgot my camera and my sweet friend Susan just sent me this picture and a cute card in the mail today.) We try to get together every few months with our original "Bunco" group girls since we don't play bunco anymore but we still need a night out with each other. This month we went to Bella Terra and ate at Pasta Pomodoro - Yummy! Then we just talked and walked around the shops that closed a bit earlier than we anticipated. Oh well... it was still a night out with no one to worry about but yourself! I feel very blessed to have such a great group of friends... we missed the ones that we not able to make it!

5 Things We Are Grateful For This Week

2008-05-26T20:40:00.001-07:00

So I forgot to post this last night... but here we go. We decided to each do one per family member since there are 5 of us.

Brandon is grateful he was able to spend ALL DAY with us on Saturday. (It's very rare we get him all day Saturday... usually Sunday is our family day.)

Michele is grateful for lots of chocolate this week - I needed it. Didn't work so well for the weight watchers, but it was one of those weeks. I am also grateful Brandon was home with us. Love him!

Taylor is grateful she was able to attend Grandma's 60th B-day party and to spend the afternoon with her friend Gabby on Friday.

Jack is grateful he could play with his new hockey stick and puck Dad bought him.

Nate is grateful for his binky!! (At least that what we think he's trying to tell us.)

Happy 40th Anniversary Mom & Dad!

2008-05-26T09:24:00.000-07:00

Today is my Mom & Dad's 40th Anniversary!! I love this picture of them - my mom was only 17 (3 days away from being 18) so my Grandma & Grandpa had to sign for them to get married! No way they would of done that for me - huh Mom? I love you Mom & Dad and hope my marriage is as wonderful as yours - thanks for setting such a great example! Happy Anniversary!

HB 4th Enrichment Night

2008-05-24T08:06:00.000-07:00

We had such a great enrichment night this past week. The theme was "Turning Our Hearts to Our Fathers" with classes on personal/family history and creative journaling ideas. Our dinner consisted of family recipes which were wonderful and they had the recipes of every dish printed out for us to take home. After dinner, they had a family of 4 generation women get up and tell why they love their mother/grandmother and what they taught them to help them in their lives. It was very touching. I could of listened to their stories all night!
But the reason I was so interested in this particular enrichment is because of starting this blog. I write on this blog as part of my journaling and I love it. I'm definitely not a creative writer so this blog just lets me write a few lines about my day or funny things my kids say, add a picture (or not) and be done. At the end of each year I'm going to have this printed out into a book from a website I received in one of the classes www.blurb.com/create/book/blogbook. I've always wanted to keep a journal and have tried many times with not much success until now. Another great idea I heard in the journal class was a "Gratitude Journal" where you write down 5 things you are grateful for each day. I love that idea and thought that would be great thing to start with my family, but everyday is a bit much for my 3 little ones so I talked with Brandon and we decided to do it weekly. So a new entry on our blog will be "5 Things We are Grateful For this Week" starting this Sunday. Stay tuned...
Quotes from Presiden Spenser W. Kimball "Those who keep a personal journal are more likely to keep the Lord in remembrance in their daily lives".
"Your journal should contain your true self rather than a picture of you when you are 'made up' for a public performance... The truth should be told, but we should not emphasize the negative."

Fun in the Sun

2008-05-22T15:21:00.000-07:00

We love living in Huntington Beach! When it's sunny and warm outside you have to do fun stuff, so we did alot this past weekend. It actually started Thursday... I took Jack and Nate to the beach with some friends. This was Nate's first time this year to actually play so I wanted to get some pictures of this outing. Well, I thought I was taking pictures but some little munchkin decided to play with my camera and put it video. So all the pictures turned out to be videos and I've included the two that came out best but they are only a few seconds long! Oh well.

Then Friday we got out the triple slip n' slide and baby pool for Nate. Taylor had a friend over so I took pictures of them racing. Fun!

THEN Saturday we went to one of our friends house that has a huge blow-up waterslide (the $499 one at Costco) - Superfun! I, of course, forgot my camera that day so you don't get the see the injury Jack received after get knocked into the bushes after one of the crazy Dads slid down after him during the watergun fight!!! But the fun didn't stop there... after that we went to another friends house for a BBQ pool party! Yummy food, total entertainment and not one problem getting the kids asleep by 7:30 that night!

Fishing with Grandpa... again

2008-05-22T15:04:00.000-07:00

This weekly fishing trip was successful again for... Jack! Not Grandpa! Jack caught a baby Shovelnose Shark this time, which he calls a Shovelnose Stingray and don't try to argue with him on the name because you won't win.

Mother's Day

2008-05-13T12:31:00.000-07:00

This post is for my mom... she wants to see the picture frame Brandon bought me for Mother's Day which I just adore. I hope all of you beautiful Mothers had a wonderful day!

I also have to post the most recent pictures of my kidos... my father-in-law took the kids down to the beach so we could have new pictures of the kids for Mother's Day presents.

Kids are hilarious...

2008-05-08T15:04:00.000-07:00

I think this is sooo funny... I hope you enjoy it too.
Taylor and I were making breakfast yesterday and she says "Mom, why don't Grandma and Grandpa ever kiss?" I said "Ummm, I don't know, why?" She says "Well, I just wondered cause you and Daddy kiss ALL the time!!!!"
Gotta love the honesty!

Fun with Grandma & Grandpa...

2008-05-07T22:03:00.000-07:00

Taylor, Jack and Nate has some fun while we were on our little vacation... Taylor had 2 birthday parties and a sleepover (and somehow scored another Webkin as seen above) while Jack and Nate went to see the trains out in Fullerton with Grandma and Grandpa. Grandpa loves trains and is pretty darn happy his Grandsons love them too. Jack and Nate have just about every Thomas Train they make along with the train table and track. He tried really hard to get Taylor to love trains but it just didn't go over so well.

They also got to see inside a fire engine (below).

Happy Anniversary - 11 years

2008-05-04T20:36:00.001-07:00

So it was our 11th anniversary on Saturday, May 3rd and Brandon surprised me with a trip up the coast to Cambria and Monterey for the weekend (without kids!!!). This is what we did on our honeymoon 11 years ago... Of course we started out with the famous "You take my picture and I'll take yours!"

We left on Friday morning and arrived in Cambria around 1ish. We stayed in a cute little place called the Creekside Inn (pictured below) which actually had a creek behind it that Brandon spotted from our balcony.

We love this little town because you can walk around and browse these cute little shops (The Dirty Laundry was our favorite - those of you who know Brandon, PLEASE ask him about his experience!) and they have the best steak place around called Sow's Ear which is were we ate at 11 years ago on our honeymoon... that was fun! The next morning we drove up the coast and saw the Elephant Seals, the only waterfall that runs into the Pacific and many more gorgeous views of PCH - it was really fabulous.

You have to make that drive if you live here in Cali or if you ever visit - it's amazing! We finally made it to Monterey 3 hours later and had so much fun browsing the shops and buying all the candy and fudge we could find. We were going to go kayaking in the bay like we did on our honeymoon, but it was 54 degrees and a bit windy. So after a long day, we decided to grab a pizza and watch a movie in bed... then break out the candy and fudge to make ourselves sick!

We really had a great time and I feel so blessed to have such a great husband... (more pictures to come)

The Forgotten Present...

2008-04-30T11:54:00.000-07:00

You know how every year you hide Christmas presents so well that you end up forgetting about it and you find it a day or two after Christmas... well that just happened to Grandma Briscoe for Nate's birthday! She bought him a pair of sunglasses (as you see in the picture) and forgot about them. Needless to say, he now wears them everywhere... to the store, to the vet, to BED, you name it he has them on. SO CUTE, especially with his beloved binky!

Fishing with Grandpa...

2008-04-29T13:03:00.001-07:00

Jack went fishing with Grandpa today on the HB pier and caught 2 fish!!! He loved it and was so excited he had to take his fish down to the shop to show Dad. Jack said the fish only liked his Spongebob pole because Grandpa didn't catch ANY fish with his pole! They have decided this will be a weekly outing for them.

Friday Night Soccer Game

2008-04-28T15:18:00.000-07:00

Taylor had a soccer game on Friday... they played a really hard team. They have been undefeated until this last game. They cried... but they got over it really quick when they learned we were having a pizza party right after the game. As you can see, Daddy and Nate were happy too!

Nate's Birthday

2008-04-28T13:54:00.000-07:00

Today is Nate's 2nd birthday! We had a party for him last night with the Briscoe family.... Grandma, Grandpa, Uncle Cooper, Aunt-to-be Lisa, Uncle Brian, Aunt Amanda (and baby girl to be Briscoe), Mom, Dad, Taylor, Jack and of course Nate. He got lots of fun gifts and even one all the way from Virginia from Mamaw and Papaw Lewis!

Bon Jovi Rocks!

2008-04-11T08:11:00.000-07:00

So I just had the best girl's night out ever..... we went to see Bon Jovi in concert and Daughtry opened for them. It was amazing. I have to say that my new concert buddy is for sure Kristin Arnold and Jen Schumann. We stood the entire time and dance like we were back in high school. Thanks so much to Amber Sim for getting us all together. It was so fun and a great group of girls to hang with... love ya Holly, Jen, Amber, Steph, Kristin and Melanie (all pictured above).