DEAN FAMILY

I'll Follow In His Way

2011-11-06T15:23:00.013-07:00

Sail to Six

2011-08-16T10:42:00.012-06:00

Grandpa on the Island sent us some big racing sails from a sailboat in Seattle and Jacob loved them so much we themed his birthday party around them.

We had all hands on deck to help and enjoyed watching the crew. Happy Birthday little Sailor!

TREK 2011

2011-07-05T10:07:00.054-06:00

ORCAS ISLAND

2010-08-26T09:59:00.063-06:00

We don’t get the chance to see Grandpa very often. But this summer we were so lucky to be able to spend some time with him.He lives on Orcas Island. We had the best time and our week was filled with wonderful memories!!! Thank you Grandpa!

To arrive at grandpas is no easy feat. We caught the early morning flight to Seattle, drove to the coast and then took the ferry over to Orcas.

Jacob turned 5 while we were on vacation! We had a double-party for Jacob and Anna (who had her b-day 2 days after we came home) It was so fun for them to celebrate their special day with Grandpa and the rest of the family.

We miss you Grandpa, and are already looking forward to our next visit!

Ms. Libby

2010-08-03T19:32:00.014-06:00

We have been blessed with WONDERFUL violin teachers that have reached in and taken hold of inspiration and set it in motion...

Ms. Libby was that sort of teacher. This was our final lesson and we soaked up every last bit of instruction we possibly could.

She is Boston bound, on to pursue more of her passion. Even with a Masters in violin performance already under her belt. Even with 50+ of her students begging her to stay!!

But pursue her dreams she must. And we are happy for her and excited to hear of all the good things to come.

Balloon Festival

2010-07-13T08:29:00.019-06:00

We added the balloon festival to the long weekend of 4th festivities. Up and out the door before 6:00am. David was still a little sleepy when we got there.

There were about 25 of these giant balloons taking flight.

Watching them inflate, up close and personal.

VIP (Anna) firing the burner.

Breakfast on the field.

Happy kids enjoying another tradition.

Buddies

2010-06-28T10:09:00.003-06:00

Sometimes being a brother is even better than being a superhero. ~Marc Brown

The Deterioration of a Smile

2010-06-26T22:12:00.012-06:00

deteriorate: to become or make something worse in quality, value, or strength.

Franklin the Turtle

2010-06-24T13:59:00.009-06:00

We found this turtle walking across the street. We saved him from getting squashed and have yet to find his owner. In the meantime, we have named him Franklin. :)

Park City 2010

2010-06-21T13:27:00.020-06:00

We had family in town last week. Soo good to see everyone. We took Wednesday and spent it playing up in Park City.

What a Memory for David

2010-06-08T17:50:00.008-06:00

Graduation

2010-06-03T16:19:00.011-06:00

We have ourselves a beautiful, smart, talented, compassionate, witty, fun-loving Sixth-Grade Graduate.

Here she is receiving her award, she was so sweet and after shaking her teacher's hand Abby reached over and gave her a hug. It was endearing and I have to admit I couldn't hold back the tears a few times during their graduation.

The girls in Mrs. L's class. This group has been together for fifth and sixth grade and have really sewed lasting friendships. These kids love to laugh!

They celebrated big with a b-b-q and water games on the day of their 'graduation' and on the last day of school their teachers hosted a breakfast for them. A kneaders french toast breakfast. mmmmm!

Congratulations, Abby!

A Place of Celebration

2010-06-03T15:27:00.007-06:00

Abby performed wonderfully in her sixth grade play, Comedy of Errors. Worthy of celebration, we headed over to Parker's for some brown-toppers.

Play Ball

2010-05-07T13:19:00.014-06:00

Baseball is his passion, his drive, his motivation. It is why he gets out of bed in the morning. (That, and he is starving again.) Baseball is his everything right now, he loves it. And he has a great swing!

He makes calls to his oldest brother, cheers him on and calls it likes he sees it. “Big hit, Bo!”

He shouts out play by play moves with actions, “I hit ball…I drop bat….I run.”

The crowd goes wild.

I just know he sees baseball in his future....

Number Six

2010-04-23T12:54:00.018-06:00

This little boy...

This little boy.

He knows just how to make everything right in the world.

He does it when he sings “he-e-e-e-e has sent me here…..”

He does it when he reaches his little chubby little hands out and says ‘hold-a-boy’.

He even does it when he looks you right in the eye, grabs your cheeks, and lays a big kiss right on ya!

He knows.

And we. love. him.

At The Zoo

2010-04-18T18:25:00.021-06:00

We thought we were going to visit the zoo on a rather slow day, being mid-week and all. We couldn't have been more wrong. Apparently, Spring Break is a perfect time to go to the zoo!

Do you think Farrell heard anything Geoff said?

Anna was the big picture-taker this year. I think she has at least 5 pictures and a video of each animal we saw. That will be fun to look back on, eh?

I can't help but wonder if anyone's fingers have ever been stuck at the bottom of this thing....? and we totally used hand-sanitizer afterwards.

Anna practicing her whistle.

It was our first zoo visit without a stroller -- and it was liberating!

The merry-go-round was a favorite....

...for everyone but David.

More whistling, she is getting really good!

Favorite pictures of this zoo day....

This one says trust. love. curiosity.

This one says it like it is with six children at the end of our visit to the zoo.

Planting Peas

2010-03-24T10:13:00.004-06:00

Daddy, let’s go lift some heavy and dirty things, Jacob said when he saw the big tiller in the garden, ready to make the soil look like chocolate cake mix.

Little did I know that planting would bring as much joy as the harvest? It’s in the anticipation, the development, the reward. And it is a family event for us. The kids come home early from bike rides, neighborhood football games and friends houses hoping not to miss out... is it time to plant? they say as they run back to the garden.

We plant when we’re all here.

Jacob was so careful and serious as he planted, as if he was giving direction to each seed. He held this stance as he scooted down the row. Cute little kid!

I asked David if he was dirty, to which he replied: I not dirty, I a boy! --Yes, you are.

Our neighbor asked incredulously, if we really planted seven rows of peas. --Yes, we did!

I think that some of the joy of our planting may come after planting...

--Yes, it does.

Visitors

2010-03-22T12:36:00.001-06:00

Look what grew at the base of our old Walnut tree…

Another fairy house. This time she had some LPS stop in for a visit.

He's At It Again

2010-03-05T10:18:00.009-07:00

So perfect to look at on this snowy, almost-spring day! :)

Bring It On

2010-03-02T13:06:00.006-07:00

I came across this picture of Ems and J and had to post it for two reasons; 1) they look so tough, and they aren't, and 2) look at all the green! We started talking gardens today. Geoff even can't help himself and went out and bought our peas and carrot seeds.

Warm Enough for a Tea Party

2010-03-02T10:09:00.000-07:00

The sun is shining. I have found my shorts and flip-flops. What better plan than an outdoor tea party?

And for my guests…...well, I guess these three will do.

Suzuki Graduation 2010

2010-03-01T11:27:00.009-07:00

“If a child learns fine music from the day of his birth and learns to play it himself, he develops sensitivity, discipline, and endurance. He gets a beautiful heart.” -- Shinichi Suzuki

Anna graduated from Book 1 playing: Gavotte by Gossec

Abby graduated from Book 5 playing: Concerto in G Minor by Vivaldi

Today

2010-02-25T11:02:00.001-07:00

Love Is In The Air

2010-02-17T13:42:00.003-07:00

David lovingly inhales the fragrance of Mommy’s Valentines.

Daddy Daughter Date

2010-02-08T11:06:00.020-07:00

He took her to the big city.

Just Anna and Daddy.

To dine like a princess.

It's tradition.

Toys and Storytime

2010-01-20T13:32:00.003-07:00

The last few nights we have found David snuggled in Anna’s bed with her while she reads a story to him. Of course, Woody and Buzz are there, they have a friend in him.

MERRY CHRISTMAS, love the deans

2009-12-24T10:47:00.001-07:00

The Nativity

2009-12-15T14:21:00.004-07:00

An Apple a Day

2009-10-30T09:46:00.011-06:00

We had this many apples - times 4 - from our 2 apple trees this year. One of those apple trees was marked for 'dead' when we brought it home 10 years ago. Geoff, the tree whisperer, brought it back to life and replenishing again. Here is the story......

Years ago, Geoff and I were at a local nursery and we were thinking how nice it would be to have an apple tree for our future kids. We picked out a beautiful dwarf red delicious tree and my smart, quick husband started right in on his bargaining tactics with the sales person. Because everything is better if bought for a deal. As soon as Geoff realized that the employee would not even cut a small deal from the sticker price, his ego was quickly threatened, and in what seemed the blink of an eye--instinct took over. Geoff noticed an identical apple tree, with virtually no leaves at all in a compost pile. He anxiously said, “Hey, I’ll buy this tree if you throw that one in (pointing to the leafless tree). The sales clerk laughed and said, “Those are all dead trees!” Determined and inspired, Geoff repeated his offer and a deal was made.

When we arrived home Geoff planted both trees, side by side, and quickly watered and put all the tender loving care he could muster to the dead tree. He would mist the seemingly dead and lifeless branches as often as he could. He continued this practice through the last weeks of summer. Before the first hard freeze, the very alive tree was doing well, although the ‘dead’ tree looked the same as it did the day we brought it home. Anxiously, we waited for spring, wondering what the outcome would be of these trees beneath our wings.

When spring arrived we found that leaf buds grew from both trees in abundance! That year there were no blossoms, and subsequently for almost nine years thereafter we watched both trees grow with close to no blossoms at all, even with careful and delicate pruning. Finally, in the tenth year, both trees blossomed and both bore fruit……but guess which tree had more blossoms and much larger fruit?

“A man has at least begun to understand the true meaning of life when he plants a shade tree under which he knows full well he will never sit.” --Elton Trueblood

First Hunt

2009-10-21T13:51:00.018-06:00

From the looks of these two, no wonder the deer were hiding.

After a long, grueling 4 minute walk, it was time for a rest....

....and a snack....

....and discovering new treasures.

It was a good first hunt.

Peas and Pumpkins

2009-10-08T10:15:00.008-06:00

Summer is wrapped up. Fall is here, and we find it irresistible. Our garden has done it’s work again for a season, providing us with such vegetables as….peas and pumpkins. Seriously, is that all we had in that large weed patch? Ah, well. But OH! what peas and what pumpkins we have had!!

Early in the spring, we labored -- look closely, Farrell expresses well the joy of hard work.

Jacob put forth his best effort.

David was in charge of the irrigation.

Early summer David enjoys a teasing of nature's candy -- garden fresh peas.

And finally, after months of sunshine and water (and unfortunately very little weeding) we get to savor the sweet reward. Pumpkins!

Radio Flyer

2009-09-30T17:37:00.021-06:00

We look at David and think, is he really just turning two? He had a birthday and yes, David is TWO! Wahoo! He is a happy boy and full of activity!! As we sang to David, he held this look of wonder throughout the whole “Happy Birthday” song!

David is the last of six children, and so he gets the brunt, er, a....blessing of hand-me-downs. Imagine his astonishment when he received for his birthday, a Brand New Shiny Red Radio Flyer Tricycle -- Only to be scratched and dented by himself alone. What a treasure.

Jacob asked me if next year, David could get TWO new bikes for his birthday……

Happiness

2009-09-22T13:10:00.010-06:00

We went to see some friends up at Swiss Days recently, and as soon as we showed up they gave us some yummy cookies and cream fudge – to which the kids devoured in less than 10 seconds. They asked if we feed our children.

We enjoyed strolling around looking at all the fun stuff for sale in the booths. Okay, let’s get real. After about 20 minutes we split up and Geoff wrestled, carried and consoled the boys while the girls and I enjoyed our stroll. We saw all sorts of cool stuff. It started sprinkling rain a little and so we decided to head home. On the way out I saw this sign and it spoke to me.

Then I put my arm around my daughter as we walked to our car. We stopped and picked up some blackberry soda and watched the rain fall. We smiled and enjoyed the ease and happiness in just being together.

Huh? Drinking Salsa!

2009-09-20T10:06:00.006-06:00

Daddy’s favorite drink. If you are lucky enough to be the recipient of this glorious addictive goodness, it would transform what you eat with your chips forever. Georgia’s salsa.

Oh brother, Daddy is drinking Georgia’s salsa again!

Sign Me Up For The County Fair!

2009-09-13T11:02:00.006-06:00

We have been busy putting up our peaches the last few days. We’ve bottled peaches, made jam and pies, and eaten more than is probably allowed. There is such contentment that comes with preserving--I love it!

Remembering 9/11

2009-09-10T10:50:00.007-06:00

A heartwarming story recently posted on the LDS website....

Indian Summer

2009-09-07T09:01:00.002-06:00

"Making the decision to have a child is momentous. It is to decide forever to have your heart go walking around outside your body.” --Elizabeth Stone

Gone Fishin'

2009-08-30T21:41:00.005-06:00

Aunt Jenny called and took the three oldest to dinner and a movie. Prompted by Jen’s spontaneity, I took the next two youngest to a $1 movie down the street. Poor David had been shafted, twice. What’s a boy gonna do?

(They really caught one in the creek, right around the corner!)

Ems First Day

2009-08-29T20:37:00.005-06:00

Emeron started Kindergarten this year. He has been soo excited, but on the first day….his excitement turned to anxiety. As we were getting out of the car, I overheard Ems say to Nan, “I’m really nervous, Anna.” Anna tried to assure him by saying something along the lines of how fun kindergarten is and that he’ll love it. Abby chimed in and reached over and put her arm around Emeron and said, “if you need anything, you just tell your teacher to get your sister Abby in the sixth grade!” :) I love it.

Here he is giving the principle fives, (too nervous to make eye contact?)

Jacob was looking a little forlorn on the first day and I asked him about it and he said, “I’m missin’ Ems.”

And then he broke out in a grin and said “naw, I’m kiddin’, I can play with David.” ;)

It's Great To Be Eight

2009-08-24T20:39:00.001-06:00

Last Sunday, Anna was with her primary class talking with the First Counselor to the Bishop about the upcoming dedication of the Oquirrh Mountain LDS Temple. When she learned that one not only had to be at least 8 years old, but also a baptized member of the church to attend the said dedication, she was heartbroken. The counselor told us when he shared that info with the class, her eyes welled with tears and she was visibly disappointed. Anna was turning eight the next day, but her baptism wasn’t scheduled for another 3 weeks. The bishop contacted Geoff and they shared a few words and then Geoff gathered me and our amazing primary president over to say…. ‘What if we were to bump up Anna’s baptism to this Saturday, making it possible for her to attend the Temple dedication?’ And so we did. :)

Anna was baptized a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. And she also was able to attend the Temple Dedication with Geoff, me and her two older siblings. The faith that Anna showed in her desire to be baptized touched our family, the bishopric, the primary presidency, her primary teacher, good friends and family and it was an absolutely beautiful day! We are so proud of you, Annalyn. We love you very much!! You shine inside and out!

Actions Speak Louder Than Words

2009-08-24T19:58:00.004-06:00

Ahh, David is growing up fast! He wants to be like the big kids now and do the things they do....

David thinks he can brush his teeth all by himself now.....he holds the toothbrush in his mouth and bounces his knees. :)

When we say our prayers we teach the kids to bow their heads. So David is following suit, only instead of bowing his head, he makes a sad face......we're sure he will eventually get it that when we bow our heads we are showing reverence, not sadness! :)

Annalyn Had A Birthday

2009-08-24T16:04:00.010-06:00

Let me share a little about Annalyn for you – in honor of her EIGHTH birthday!

1) Anna is all girl – she loves everything girly. But she is not afraid to hold a snake or grasshopper or bug.
2) She genuinely loves helping others, especially her younger brothers.
3) She likes to collect 'little things'. She has a lot of little things.
4) She is a musician at heart – a true Suzuki ear! She can teach herself primary songs on the piano just by ear (and she doesn’t even take the piano). She enjoys playing the violin and with each new song she learns she adds another to her ‘favorite’ list.
5) Anna loves to read. It has been so sweet to see her reading her scriptures before bed, unprompted.
6) She is the most ticklish, giggly, easy to get a smile out of girl ever! Even when she is grouchy.
7) Speaking of ticklish, you oughta hear this girl laugh! It’s the kind of laugh that makes you laugh!
8) Anna likes having the last word….she has her own unique routine of goodnights and goodbyes.

We love you so much Nan!! Happy Happy Birthday! :)

Jacob Is Four

2009-08-20T13:06:00.004-06:00

This sweet face is FOUR years old now. Jacob really is sunshine in our souls! Here are Four Fabulous Facts about our Jakes:

one) He is absolutely, uniquely happy -- and it is contagious!!

two) He is amiable and because of that characteristic, seems to get away with more than the others…..

three) “Is it dinner time?” is a phrase I often hear. This little guy loves to eat! Just yesterday I asked Jacob not to just snatch food from David, because it really was starting to upset him. Jacob replied, “well, Mom, my tummy was hungry!”

four) He always calls it like he sees it. And that makes for some fun quotes! :)

Grandpa Farrell's Fishing Boat

2009-08-14T11:05:00.003-06:00

Geoff took the boys out in the ole' boat for a little early morning fishing.

Jacob was just a little upset about having to wear a 'girly' life vest. But he got over it!

Deciding who gets to 'do the controls' first....

Youngest first....

Farrell didn't want to mess with such nonsense, he went straight to fishing.

They left with a cooler full of fish, sunburned faces, and another memory of fishing in Grandpa's old boat. Everyone caught two, but Emeron had the prize!

For The Hickmans

2009-08-13T07:55:00.004-06:00

Our Staycation

2009-08-07T15:26:00.006-06:00

We went for a staycation this summer to Snowbird Resort. We had ourselves a day full-o-fun on the zip-rider, alpine slide, bungee trampoline, rock-wall, bull-rider, bouncy things and a tram ride to the top of the mountain.

Now, what are these two boys up to?

The tram ride was exhilarating for some and a little unnerving for others. The view at the top was worth it all!

Fighting for a turn on the telescope.

Jacob looking at the….sky?

Emeron soaking in the majestic beauty.

CARNI 2009

2009-07-24T09:17:00.013-06:00

It’s that time of year again, when all sorts of characters come out of the woodwork and surface at the local carnival. I have six of those sorts of characters. :)

Cotton Candy? Caramel Apple? No thanks. We’ll have 8 corndogs, please. There is one thing at the carni that you can not find anywhere else, at any other time (unless, of course, at another carnival) the CORNDOGS. Mmmmmm! It's a family favorite!

We always like to get pictures of the little ones on the Merry-Go-Round (plus, the older kids don’t want to waste their precious tickets on such a ride). This year David wasn’t so sure if he liked the idea. Geoff lifted him up onto his horse and David had the look of terror in his eyes and the sound of terror came out of his mouth. Thankfully, as the ride started he warmed to the idea and made peace with his horse.

As a matter of fact, I think David sort of bonded with this good-humored old horse. They both seem to be having a good time.

Summer Feet

2009-07-22T10:19:00.001-06:00

Preparing for Wimbledon

2009-07-16T10:17:00.003-06:00

Abby participated in her first tennis tournament – and took FIRST in her division!! YEAH! She had so much fun playing and really was focused throughout the tourney. She played 8 mini-sets first, then Abby and one other girl had tied with 15 wins and then they played each other in the finals and Abby took it! She won FIRST PLACE!

I thought it was so cute that she would shake hands w/whomever she was playing after each set. Here she is shaking hands after her final win.

Workin’ at her serve.

Slammin’ a backhand.

Since the tourney started at 8am (and went till nearly 2pm) Daddy was at work and so we called him just after Abby’s placement was announced. :)

For The Love of Airplanes

2009-07-14T07:16:00.008-06:00

This is a frequent action for David every time he hears an airplane in the sky: The swift rising head-tilt, the fast outstretched arm and finger-point, accompanied by a loud and energized, “nneeeeer! nneeeeer!”

He loves airplanes. And when did he find this new love?

At the Airshow 2009. It was love at first sight.

I Do Believe In Fairies

2009-07-08T17:48:00.006-06:00

“Mom, I’m booorrred,” I hear. And this is the product of boredom: Fairy Houses.

Anna made her fairy house in the plum tree. Complete with moss for carpet, and berries and water in a walnut shell.

Abby expanded her fairy house to a Fairy-Inn. Adorned with a rock for a table and halved walnut shells for chairs.

Enjoying the Spoiling

2009-07-06T09:53:00.003-06:00

The boys were outside helping Geoff get the fishing boat ready and our neighbors brought over a treat for the kids. Just because. We have great neighbors. They love our children and spoil them all the time. Jacob, David and Emeron are enjoying some of the spoiling. Notice Jacob went straight for the 4" thick frosting.

It looks like Jacob might have a little regret. Ugh.

David wiping his chin of the devilish frosting. I think he missed a spot.

July 4, 2009

2009-07-03T23:17:00.003-06:00

Mmm, Berries

2009-06-30T13:53:00.008-06:00

I was looking for David in the yard the other day, he seemed to have disappeared. Finally found him in the strawberries, getting his fill.

There is nothing like picking fresh strawberries. The flavor is so true and intense, we’ve spoiled him for sure, now he will want nothing but the good stuff.

For The Best Daddy Ever

2009-06-21T21:35:00.005-06:00

Thank you for ALWAYS making us smile!!! WE LOVE YOU!!

Lessons I Learned As A Boy

2009-06-10T19:25:00.003-06:00

This is one I could watch over and over, and have. It is heartwarming just to hear President Hinkley's voice. :) …..I wonder if my children are learning life lessons?

Water Maestro

2009-05-30T08:28:00.005-06:00

The newest feature in our yard is the drinking fountain. This is David instructing the fountain to perform.

Really, any thirsty participants end up in a water fight, but we know (hope) that the novelty will wear off…..eventually.

Who are these Kids? And Why do they keep calling me Mom?!

2009-05-27T11:00:00.000-06:00

: ) Oh! How I love them!!! Summer is coming -- am I ready for this? : )

Multi-Tasking

2009-05-21T15:06:00.001-06:00

As I was listening to Abs practice, I was hearing the same phrase over and over and over, and over again. Thinking, 'wow, she is really working on that'. So, I knocked on her door and poked my head in to compliment her, and….

Hmmmm. Practicing or reading?

Family Pictures Postponed

2009-05-20T14:43:00.009-06:00

We had to postpone our family pictures a few weeks. Let me show you why….

Emeron flew off his bike. It wasn’t pretty. (No helmet. Bad mother.)

Farrell thought 9 was a good age to experiment on shaving. Um, I guess a man’s gotta learn to shave sometime. : )

Family Pictures are now scheduled for mid-June. ::::crossing fingers::::

Bishop Daddy

2009-05-05T10:34:00.004-06:00

For a little over five years, this was the favorite gathering spot in our ward after church meetings, Bishop Daddy’s office.

Months turned into years and here we are at the completion of his service. I am so grateful for our ward family, for all the prayers that have been offered in our behalf. I am so grateful for the opportunities that have been given to us, so grateful for the increased testimony of the gospel, so grateful to have felt the love of the lord daily and witnessed his blessings in our lives. I have learned, in greater depth, the realization of King Benjamin’s words from the Book of Mormon: “When ye are in the service of your fellow beings, ye are only in the service of your God.” Now,... what to do with all Geoff's white shirts? ;)

Apple Tree

Violin Recital Spring 2009

2009-05-04T13:22:00.003-06:00

Anna’s solo piece: Hunters’ Chorus, by Weber

Abby’s solo piece: Concerto in A Minor, 2nd Movement, by Vivaldi

Once again the girls performed fabulously! :) Have I ever put a plug in for their AMAZING teacher? She is: The. Best. She is inspiring and motivating and incredibly talented. We absolutely love her!

Return to Topaz Mountain

2009-04-20T13:44:00.015-06:00

Topaz Mountain is this amazing place for hounds of all ages (rock hounds, that is) to hike around and find real crystal topaz of all sorts and sizes in the sand and rock. It really is a pretty sight and fun for the kids to see the ground glimmer and sparkle in the sun. We spent the day searching for topaz and thoroughly enjoyed the time spent together. At the end of the day, we not only came home with our newfound-treasures, but 4 newfound-lizards as well!

Easter Sabbath

2009-04-20T12:38:00.009-06:00

Easter Festivities

2009-04-20T12:37:00.007-06:00

It’s a learned talent…. quick hands to pick up, sharp eyes for searching out. As soon as David had opened his eyes from his nap, his mother had him outside, enthusiastically prodding him on to pick up the eggs and put them in his basket. A little bit of a shock for David, I’m sure. He eventually got the hang of it. I probably should have let him stretch from his nap first….. :)

Spring Break 2009

2009-04-20T12:05:00.008-06:00

Here are a couple of pictures from last week when the kids were out of school. It was literally spring ‘break’ -- there were broken trees and downed power lines all over our neighborhood. The irony is that school is back in session today, and it is 70 degrees outside with blue skies. Aaah, the beauty of Spring! Here are two pictures of our back yard.

Handsome. Smart. Cool.

2009-04-08T21:01:00.003-06:00

Emeron has new eyeglasses!! He has had them for a couple of weeks now and really has been so good with them -- he's only lost them, and then found them, twice! :)

A Day With Ems

2009-04-08T20:05:00.004-06:00

Ems and I had a special day.... After a (looonng) appointment with a Pediatric Ophthalmologist, we spent the day touring. First we went to lunch at the Garden Restaurant. Emeron was impressed with the little balls of butter and exclaimed, "look! little butter balls!" after which we both cracked up because that is what we often call his little baby brother. :) He ordered 'chicken nuggets', we all know that the fine restaurants have 'nuggets'. I ordered some extravagant Asian salad, which was not only delicious, but beautiful. Following lunch, we toured all over Temple Square, Joseph Smith Memorial Building and the Conference Center. Emeron led the way -- anywhere he wanted to go, we went. It was fun to see Ems' excitement when he recognized the 'big room' as one of the places he visited while watching General Conference this last weekend.

The Influence of a Good Book

2009-04-06T13:23:00.002-06:00

Farrell found a book that really caught his attention. Holes by Louis Sachar. He started reading it one night and come the next morning, the influence of the book hit him…. he started digging his own hole.

He shoveled and hurled and heaved and hoed and finally took a break when it was about 3 feet deep. (This was when a few of his siblings took the opportunity to test out the depth.) After a big drink, he continued digging and digging -- he stopped at approximately 5 feet.

Cracking the Code

2009-03-30T13:32:00.007-06:00

Geoff deserves the credit for this one…. David speaks David, and really only the family knows what he is talking about. For the last couple of months David says “di-ga-di-go” (rather fast) every time he sees pretty much anything with a handle, ie: scripture case, handbag, lunchboxes, violin cases, etc. So, he says “di-ga-di-go” and struts around with a smile on his face, while carrying in his hand something with a handle.

Yesterday, Geoff received inspiration (during a visit from our home teachers) as to what exactly “di-ga-di-go” means. After our handshakes and goodbyes, no sooner had the door shut than Geoff turned around and triumphantly said, “I know what “di-ga-di-go” means! --- ‘GOTTA GO’!!” Really, it was an obvious match, but it took the smarts of Daddy to bring it to our attention. You see, every time one of us leaves the house, we’re saying we gotta go! Or you gotta go! so naturally David picked up that phrase. It was a happy day indeed to have cracked the code, even if in part, to the language of David! ;)

Tasting the Wind

2009-03-28T21:03:00.008-06:00

Jacob cracks us up all the time. Not with a big punch line or anything but the simple, innocent comments of a 3 year old boy. Here is a little sampling:
--While walking into the grocery store, which happens to be next to a pizza place; “Mom! I can really smell the wind! I can taste the wind!”
--Seeking a second drink before bed; “See my breath :::exhale::: it needs a drink.”
--Clicking a mechanical pencil; “This doesn’t have any WINK in it.”
--Stating the obvious; “I don’t like soap in my hair, it gets my hair all soapy.”
--Always thoughtful of not only others -- but other things; “Mom, I need to take these DVDs out. They need some fresh air.”
--And finally, when the boys play-fight, Emeron often says, “You wanna piece of me?”
Jacob however, (while laughing and putting up his dukes) says, “You wanna piece of MEAT?” :)

CC: Obama

2009-03-26T18:04:00.000-06:00

Tea Party, anyone?

Secret Fishing Hole

2009-03-20T20:54:00.010-06:00

Now, I’m not gonna spill the beans as to this top secret fishing hole of Geoff’s, but it’s only 4 minutes from the house and easy for Daddy to get the kids and go fishing for an hour or so. Emeron caught the first fish of the season, a big ole German Brown. He is quite proud, as you can tell.

Jacob Says

2009-03-20T12:35:00.004-06:00

This morning, feeling out of the ordinary, I thought I'd try to fix Jakey's hair nice and neat. I made my attempt and then he disappeared into the other room and came back saying matter-of-factly; "Mom, I like my hair playing around." :)

Have You Seen This?

2009-03-18T21:13:00.005-06:00

WoW! I just loved this -- it gives me hope and makes me stand a little taller. :)

Come On, Spring!

2009-03-08T15:26:00.016-06:00

Brother of Jared

2009-02-11T09:40:00.004-07:00

This week for Family Home Evening we had a lesson on the Brother of Jared. We talked about the great faith he had and his inspiration in finding stones that were white and clear like glass and asking the Lord to touch them so they would shine in the darkness and give light.

In the Book of Mormon we read: “And I know, O Lord, that thou has all power, and can do whatsoever thou wilt for the benefit of man; therefore touch these stones, O Lord, with thy finger, and prepare them that they may shine forth in darkness; and they shall shine forth unto us in the vessels which we have prepared, that we may have light while we shall cross the sea. And it came to pass that when the brother of Jared had said these words, behold, the Lord stretched forth his hand and touched the stones one by one with his finger.” (Ether 3:4,6)

As we were reading through the story we were not too sure of who was paying attention until Geoff turned the lights out and held a white stone in his hand with a flashlight underneath, showing the kids what the stones might have looked like. They were all wide-eyed and quiet as they each took their turn holding the stone of light. :)

Little Giant

2009-02-09T18:49:00.006-07:00

Lately, David has really taken to climbing. Look where I found him playing.....

Here, it looks like he thought the barbie bed looked like a comfy place to rest for a bit....

Now, he is on to exploring the patio portion of this lovely dollhouse.....

But I think all in all, he found it slightly cramped.

Snow Globe

2009-02-09T18:44:00.007-07:00

It was a Sunday morning, just after bath-time and I heard Farrell exclaim: “It’s a SNOWGLOBE outside!!” Sure enough, the snow was falling in big beautiful snowflake bunches – and it really did look like a snow globe.

Here is a shot from January of Seth, Jacob and Emeron in our snow fort. You know, my kids love forts with pillows, forts with blankets and sheets, forts under tables, really any sort of a fort is great, but one made of snow seems especially cool for this bunch of kids!

David is getting so big on us – it really is not fair. He went through a rough week where he simply decided that he was not going to take a nap. Well, he never lasted through the day and always ended up crashing at the table. Looks comfy, eh? After a few days of this he has (thankfully!!) returned to the normal schedule of napping in his crib, with his warm soft blankies -- no more cold hard plastic for this boy.

Coon Hunting

2009-02-09T18:43:00.002-07:00

Occasionally, we have some aggressive visitors come to our place just for the food. Raccoons. Once Geoff tried to take care of them with peanut butter and a metal trap, and one fell for it, but once in the trap, the varmint chewed its way out and escaped. They keep coming back and because our city will not take them, Geoff decided to take care of them the old-fashioned way….with his bow and arrow.

A Peek At Christmas

2008-12-27T10:36:00.015-07:00

All aboard! Santa brought Ems and Jacob new N-scale trains. They love them!! Honestly, they are just as excited about the trains as they are about the Wii! They love to send candy around to each other and their absolute favorite is to be the engineer. Christmas magic!

Two American Girl Dolls --

Jacob chugging draft style root-beer with double pearl handles close by --

Abby shoveling us out of the snow --

Abby and Fare sporting their new scarves at a family party.

Here is a shot of the kids on Christmas Eve in their jammies:
I think I said something like this: "Everybody sit here in front of the tree, let's get a picture of your new jammies! (Never mind that we've been going all day long and now you're all melting....) David, stop pulling on your brother. Jacob, it's okay -- just one picture, smile for the camera!!" :)

Here are a few shots of the kids on the Sunday before Christmas.
Froggy.

Davey-Crockett.

Abs.

Fare.

Nan.

Em-za.

And the whole bunch --

MERRY CHRISTMAS!!

Photos courtesy of my Christmas present, from my sweetheart -- my very own (meaning I don't have to borrow Abby's anymore) SLR. Canon. EOS. Rebel. XSi.

--oh, yeah!

Reflections Winner

2008-12-13T13:49:00.001-07:00

Abs received awards in 2 of the 5 areas she entered..... music and film. Way to go, Abs!

A Good Place

2008-12-13T13:43:00.002-07:00

Jacob wanted to save his lunch for later...... He said, "this is a good place" and stuck it on the fridge.

Missing Friends

2008-12-13T13:40:00.003-07:00

Ems and Jacob with a few of their FAVORITE friends --- just before they moved..... :(

We miss you guys!!

Mmm, Looks Good

2008-11-25T15:29:00.002-07:00

This picture is a classic. It is so Farrell. He is in the background there, eye-ing that delicious looking ear of corn. I’m thinking he is already dreaming of the turkey and potatoes that will adorn his plate here in a couple of days.

Here are 9 fun facts about Farrell you should know, for he is 9 years old. (Okay, so this too, should have been posted a month ago.)

1. Farrell is a champion! Really, in baseball his team was #1. He received the “best-overall” award in soccer. And he earned the MVP award in his first year of Flag Football this fall. He LOVES sports.
2. He used to play the violin, and now plays the piano. But, of course, would much rather be outside playing catch.
3. He loves to eat.
4. He is happy and really can make anyone laugh with his silly-ness! As a matter of fact, he often resorts to trying to make his little brothers laugh when they are about to cry, “Mom!”
5. He loves riding his rip-stick.
6. Farrell can do a ‘fripple-back-flip with a front-flip-extra” on the trampoline.
7. He is really kindhearted and enjoys serving others. If he sees our neighbor out in their yard, he would much rather help her with her yard work than work in his own yard. ;)
8. He likes to draw and build things.
9. He is friendly and makes friends easily – with anyone, no matter their age. There are a handful of older people in our ward who ADORE him, 2 or 3 times a month someone will come up to me and tell me how they “just love that Farrell.”

We love you so very much Fare!!

There Is Beauty All Around

2008-11-25T12:27:00.000-07:00

This fall Abby went to an overnight camp at Clear Creek with the girls in the 5th grade. I went with as a chaperone. They had a packed schedule full of fun and learning. One of the activities on the first day was a ‘ropes-course’ where they learned to help one another in a small group setting and rely on one another – this was one of the highlights for all the girls.

Later, on the first day we went on a hike, and I was reminded of something beautiful about Abby…. Many of the girls were chatting in small groups, not lifting their eyes from the trail. Abby, on the other hand, was looking all around and repeatedly stopped and would look up with awe at the beauty all around us, she was taking picture after picture of the fall leaves, stopping and pointing “Wow! Look at that! That’s so pretty!” She took over 100 pictures, no kidding. Anyway, I just loved it how she was able to appreciate the beauty that was all around us.

There are so many things about Abs that you should know – here are 11 (in honor of her 11th birthday,….um, which was recently – okay, not so recently.)

1. She is smart – and knows it, but doesn’t flaunt it – she appreciates it.
2. She got her ears pierced! (Yeah, she got her Dad to approve 1 year early!!)
3. She really likes to take pictures and make movies.
4. She loves to read. Yeah, yeah, old news – everyone knows that one.
5. Her favorite color is light BLUE.
6. She loves tradition. We can do something once, and if it was fun – it’s tradition and we’re locked into doing it again and again.
7. She loves to write stories.
8. When it’s movie night, she often looks for the LONGEST movie.
9. Abby is everyone's friend!
10. When one of her little brothers get hurt, she is the first one on the scene to help.
11. Game Time anyone? Abby loves to play games, card games, board games, all games!

Happy Birthday Abby!! We love you so very much!!

Thinking Ahead

2008-11-16T08:50:00.002-07:00

The first thing Farrell said when he woke up this morning:

"When I'm in college, do you think I can play tackle football during recess?"

Happy Birthday EMERON

2008-11-04T10:42:00.003-07:00

Here is a little post for Ems: After our family night last night, the kids were goofing around a little (surprise, huh) and Anna was trying to shut the door before Daddy got to it and Ems was right there and turned his face and…. yeah, the door handle got Ems right in the cheek, it split open. So, after a little deliberation between Geoff and I as to whether to take him into the ER, and if we should get a plastic surgeon,… Geoff, er, I mean Dr. Dean, ended up super-gluing the cut together and attaching a band-aid. And Emeron was brave through the whole ordeal.

You know this Emeron of ours, he is quite a kid. He is named after his Daddy and his Great Grandpa. And, I just have to say that whoever is Em’s friend is as lucky as can be because he is such a nice kid!! He is always, always, always so kind to others. He, of course loves to have fun and be silly – he is Geoff’s son. Emeron is turning 5, and here are FIVE things I want you to know about him:

1) He is extremely tolerant of his younger brothers of 3 years and 1 year. He helps them and shares with them and teaches them….
y’know, mostly good stuff.

2) Ems can run fast! Wooosh! If you could see him run it would make your hair blow! He also loves any sort of accolades given in this regard.

3) He is reading – and proud of it! This is always such a fun stage for me when the kids first learn to read, and they find the words they know on signs,
on mail, and in books. Emeron enjoys it for the most part, as long as he reads in small, short intervals. :)

4) Ems loves the colors DARK BLUE and RED. He is a BYU fan, after all – and loves to share that with anyone who happens to be wearing blue.
And did you know that RED is mostly a spiderman color, and not so much a UTE color?

5) Emeron is a superhero at heart! Any given day he is always the good-guy – saving the world! (If only he could help us on this Election Day.)

We love you Emeron!! You are our Very Important Person today and always. HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!

Halloween Song

2008-10-30T18:06:00.007-06:00

Anna's First Grade Teacher sent an email over with a link to a few of the songs they have been learning, so I copied this one to share...... SO CUTE!!
What Are You Going To Be On Halloween Night? There are some other songs in the album at this site, take a listen! :)

Ems First Day

2008-10-29T12:22:00.000-06:00

More of my extremely organized self, this too was over 30 days ago.... But soo cute I had to post it!

David's First Birthday

2008-10-28T12:30:00.000-06:00

Here is how organized I am..... posting a picture of David's birthday bash, just 30 days later.

He really was darling opening his presents. It makes it so fun when the kids have enthusiasm!!

Now, honestly, David has been the neatest of our children eating their First Birthday Cake. I have pictures of the others with cake all over, but David wasn't in to being that messy. :)

Out Of Control

2008-10-24T18:26:00.001-06:00

Abby had some friends over today and one of them (who is the youngest in her family, but still, 11 years old) said to me….. “Is it hard to control little kids?.....when you have so many of them?” I stammered for a moment wondering who was out of control -- as Anna was reading a book to Ems and Jacob, and David was sitting contentedly looking at a toy in his hands. And then she said, “y’know, I just wondered, when I saw THAT!” pointing to the bright red and brown marker coloring on the carpet. I replied lamely, “…..ahem….oh,….that was….a….Jacob did that....” :)

Play Piano

2008-10-18T12:34:00.000-06:00

So this is what Jacob meant when he said, "play piano."

Note To Abby

2008-10-17T12:26:00.000-06:00

Anna left this note to Abby on the wall by her dresser...... after a "spirited discussion", I'm sure. :)

Scissor Ventriloquist

2008-10-13T12:36:00.005-06:00

Some things take all our concentration! ;)

John Rowe Moyle

2008-10-12T12:15:00.000-06:00

Recently our family had the opportunity to learn about Geoff’s Maternal Great, Great, Great Grandfather, John Rowe Moyle. On September 29th, we watched a DVD about his life and then went up to visit his home in Alpine. We had a picnic dinner and then a private tour of his homestead (Moyle Park). It was a unique experience to be in his home and hear stories about his life. It was on this tour that Geoff received inspiration for an excursion he would take with Abby and Farrell the following Friday…..

….John Rowe Moyle was a skilled stone cutter and builder, he was personally called by Brigham Young to work on the Salt Lake Temple. He lived in Alpine and every Monday morning he would rise at 2:00am walking over 22 miles to arrive at the SL Temple by 8:00am for a full days shift. He would stay with his son in Salt Lake during the week and then return, walking home to Alpine, on Fridays starting at 6:00pm, usually arriving back home by midnight. He would only have just the short weekend to do the chores and maintain his farm. He did this for many years, until an accident which caused his right leg to be amputated just below the knee. Shortly after the misfortune, he fashioned a wooden leg and was eventually well enough to once again walk to Salt Lake and back on a weekly basis so he could continue to fulfill the calling extended him by Brigham Young, as a stone cutter. He did this for years. John Rowe Moyle was the person who carved the plaque, “Holiness To The Lord, House of the Lord” on the east side of the Salt Lake Temple.

…….okay, so Geoff’s inspiration was to take Abby and Farrell on the same hike/walk that his Great (III) Grandfather did. So, the 3 of them began their journey in the wee hours of the morning (literally 2:00 am) starting at John’s home and walked, and walked, and walked….. As they were moving over the top into Draper, Farrell became sick (and released the sickness) so they trekked 6 miles back to the truck, Geoff piggy-backing Farrell & Abby piggy-backing Farrell's backpack. They returned home around 5:00am….. If you were to ask Abby or Farrell, and certainly Geoff, if they’ll try again – the answer is a resounding ‘YES’ – but maybe a little later in the morning, I wonder?

Geoff came home from the priesthood session that Saturday night and said that President Uchtdorf talked about John Rowe Moyle in his talk Lift Where You Stand. That was the icing on the cake for our family. :)

BTW, if you want to see a really neat family film (only 16 minutes) watch T. C. Christensen's Only A Stonecutter.

At the cemetery, gravestone of John Rowe Moyle.

General Conference

2008-10-06T12:41:00.002-06:00

I belong to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. I know who I am. I know God’s plan. I’ll follow him in faith. I believe in the Savior, Jesus Christ. I’ll honor his name. I’ll do what is right; I’ll follow his light. His truth I will proclaim.

How grateful I am for this wonderful weekend of listening to our beloved Prophet and Apostles. After two days of conference, Abby and I were talking and she said, "I wish we had one more day!" We enjoy the time together, we enjoy the yummy snacks, we enjoy resting our eyes for a bit ;) -- but mostly we enjoy the testimonies born which strengthen us and our relationship with our Heavenly Father.

I know President Thomas S. Monson is our living prophet today and am so grateful for that quiet witness that the Spirit gives me; that our Father in Heaven loves us and that He is mindful of each of us and our needs…….

Remember When

2008-09-30T14:44:00.002-06:00

Remember when people had dial-up internet connections? Well, yeah, I 'remember' all to well ::::sigh:::: we still have a dial-up connection. So, in order to upload pictures onto this blog,(in a reasonable amount of time) I would have to take my ‘memory stick’ w/me whenever we visited the library and upload a whole bunch of pictures at that time. Well, it worked for a while, but now (for some reason) I can’t access blogger from the library anymore….so that means we have to figure something else out. :) So, thanks for being patient (especially Grandpa) while there are no new photos of the Darling Deans.

Our Baby Turns One

2008-09-30T14:40:00.001-06:00

In honor of David turning ONE this month….. Here is ONE thing that you should know about him:

He is absolutely, positively, without a doubt whatsoever, the cutest, funniest darling-est baby with a funny snaggly-toothed smile who loves to hear his voice and is walking with his buff little legs and is HAPPY! All the time, happy! He constantly flashes his ear to ear smile! He is a complete JOY to our family and he is adored by all. Happy Birthday David!!! We love you to pieces! :)

These Are A Few Of My Favorite Things

2008-09-23T13:24:00.002-06:00

In honor of my 38 years – here are a few of my favorite things (in no particular order - besides the first three!!)

Geoff, my children, the gospel, harvest, good books, nap time, peaches, tire swings, scouts – I’m the bear den mother!! red fall leaves, gardening, flowers, David’s bow-legged walk, shopping, date night w/my hubby, music that makes you smart ‑ I love the violin!! visiting new restaurants w/my mom and sister, Farrell’s happy eyes, hammocks, laughter, sunshine – love that vitamin d, Emeron’s kind voice, learning new things, Abigail’s heart of gold, pillow talk, pilates, water, holidays, checking on the kids while they are sleeping, Jacob’s happy smile, vacations, chocolate, hiking, taking pictures, being organized (maybe I’ll get there in, oh, about 18 years?!) Annalyn’s infectious laugh, being a mom and birthdays!! :)