tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-68724924764529643432024-03-13T11:24:10.028-07:00The Painter Familythepainterfamilyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03460206307038444602noreply@blogger.comBlogger380125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6872492476452964343.post-21709341613294774852015-02-05T11:47:00.000-08:002015-02-05T11:47:35.033-08:00A couple shots from our winter schedule <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QgKExKzv8LI/VNOwFXwdejI/AAAAAAAAGX0/RUxeTtYbGBU/s1600/IMG_0292.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QgKExKzv8LI/VNOwFXwdejI/AAAAAAAAGX0/RUxeTtYbGBU/s1600/IMG_0292.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xwQyFVb1Ff0/VNOwFcFKHiI/AAAAAAAAGX4/y28HA5XJ6yo/s1600/IMG_0347.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xwQyFVb1Ff0/VNOwFcFKHiI/AAAAAAAAGX4/y28HA5XJ6yo/s1600/IMG_0347.JPG" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />thepainterfamilyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03460206307038444602noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6872492476452964343.post-19353178398616797822015-02-05T07:49:00.000-08:002015-02-05T07:49:06.639-08:00Heartbreakers<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ep_QCjGVodo/VNOOYpYvW3I/AAAAAAAAGXM/JicNyYSpuI4/s1600/DPP_00025.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ep_QCjGVodo/VNOOYpYvW3I/AAAAAAAAGXM/JicNyYSpuI4/s1600/DPP_00025.JPG" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-i-frs3M-jU0/VNOOYjguvzI/AAAAAAAAGXQ/hZpvygQ8_MI/s1600/DPP_00026.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-i-frs3M-jU0/VNOOYjguvzI/AAAAAAAAGXQ/hZpvygQ8_MI/s1600/DPP_00026.JPG" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-r32fb-uyyq8/VNOOYlRqoUI/AAAAAAAAGXU/vO--Jol9v60/s1600/DPP_00027.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-r32fb-uyyq8/VNOOYlRqoUI/AAAAAAAAGXU/vO--Jol9v60/s1600/DPP_00027.JPG" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-07Av2j9LAvU/VNOOaBBJP-I/AAAAAAAAGXk/lN5FfkqdHEI/s1600/DPP_00028.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-07Av2j9LAvU/VNOOaBBJP-I/AAAAAAAAGXk/lN5FfkqdHEI/s1600/DPP_00028.JPG" height="512" width="640" /></a></div>
Oh my gosh. These guys, I've sighed every time I've seen these pictures. They came over one day on Christmas break and we shot these in less than 10 minutes. Seriously, they are so much fun, so full of personality. We are blessed beyond belief to live by these cousins. We go to different elementary schools now, but our kids will all attend the same middle and high schools. (!!!) It's a big rowdy bunch of fun. thepainterfamilyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03460206307038444602noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6872492476452964343.post-48451656409923164272015-02-04T17:55:00.000-08:002015-02-04T17:55:20.933-08:00Tis the Season to be Jolly<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GugGuxrhhLQ/VNLLZyM_0YI/AAAAAAAAGWE/51NInZSKfPM/s1600/DPP_00015.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GugGuxrhhLQ/VNLLZyM_0YI/AAAAAAAAGWE/51NInZSKfPM/s1600/DPP_00015.JPG" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Christmas Morning</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-giMkCohNIeE/VNLLaZVpGSI/AAAAAAAAGWI/cPw5B-TKfhs/s1600/DPP_00016.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-giMkCohNIeE/VNLLaZVpGSI/AAAAAAAAGWI/cPw5B-TKfhs/s1600/DPP_00016.JPG" height="360" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
World Series Baseballs signed by Jeremy Guthrie yo!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yG5IAoyEOIc/VNLLZhaMAMI/AAAAAAAAGWA/DfGwdl012cY/s1600/DPP_00017.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yG5IAoyEOIc/VNLLZhaMAMI/AAAAAAAAGWA/DfGwdl012cY/s1600/DPP_00017.JPG" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GHd2gymRjK0/VNLLbHOmBkI/AAAAAAAAGWY/7G0bKVoTbPg/s1600/DPP_00018.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GHd2gymRjK0/VNLLbHOmBkI/AAAAAAAAGWY/7G0bKVoTbPg/s1600/DPP_00018.JPG" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oq4J9wsAbf0/VNLLcLQdkHI/AAAAAAAAGWg/A1E4GdqyvEc/s1600/DPP_00019.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oq4J9wsAbf0/VNLLcLQdkHI/AAAAAAAAGWg/A1E4GdqyvEc/s1600/DPP_00019.JPG" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xSG_hypefmo/VNLLcMXGUDI/AAAAAAAAGWk/rJrITB0VUtY/s1600/DPP_00020.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xSG_hypefmo/VNLLcMXGUDI/AAAAAAAAGWk/rJrITB0VUtY/s1600/DPP_00020.JPG" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
My little cuties in their Sunday finery</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PwVmvMPfrk0/VNLBbnQ3ZhI/AAAAAAAAGVs/2vn6kdngOHY/s1600/Nov_0053%2Bedit.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PwVmvMPfrk0/VNLBbnQ3ZhI/AAAAAAAAGVs/2vn6kdngOHY/s1600/Nov_0053%2Bedit.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
And, ye old Christmas Card photograph</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />thepainterfamilyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03460206307038444602noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6872492476452964343.post-71522838265495334692015-02-04T16:58:00.000-08:002015-02-04T16:58:49.522-08:00Halloween 2014<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-AlshWi5l1p8/VNK5b437gpI/AAAAAAAAGVU/8X9c-VUG0fU/s1600/IMG_3871.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-AlshWi5l1p8/VNK5b437gpI/AAAAAAAAGVU/8X9c-VUG0fU/s1600/IMG_3871.JPG" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bmMgLWsByHk/VNK5bnvO2II/AAAAAAAAGVQ/xeqtT35mb7Y/s1600/IMG_3861.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bmMgLWsByHk/VNK5bnvO2II/AAAAAAAAGVQ/xeqtT35mb7Y/s1600/IMG_3861.JPG" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
This photo shows it as it really is. Zach was so into his Royals uniform...it was the year of the World Series after all. Lily, forever the patient older sister...trying to break up the fight between Violet and Poppy. And Roman is like "dude, let's get on with the candy!"</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WPFBXoKuT8A/VNK5a_AU6JI/AAAAAAAAGVA/gyHSAGuWf7c/s1600/IMG_3855.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WPFBXoKuT8A/VNK5a_AU6JI/AAAAAAAAGVA/gyHSAGuWf7c/s1600/IMG_3855.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Then, they all wanted action shots...</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-04LZ7lVg2NM/VNK5aMUwA4I/AAAAAAAAGU8/muxo5mZpIOM/s1600/IMG_3851.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-04LZ7lVg2NM/VNK5aMUwA4I/AAAAAAAAGU8/muxo5mZpIOM/s1600/IMG_3851.JPG" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Roman the ninja</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rVEUITfA0vc/VNK5aWfOndI/AAAAAAAAGU4/CsI4PvEbWy0/s1600/IMG_3852.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rVEUITfA0vc/VNK5aWfOndI/AAAAAAAAGU4/CsI4PvEbWy0/s1600/IMG_3852.JPG" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Lily the ballerina</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qjU_08lly_s/VNK5YhyBESI/AAAAAAAAGUY/9WulubY1xiA/s1600/IMG_3842.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qjU_08lly_s/VNK5YhyBESI/AAAAAAAAGUY/9WulubY1xiA/s1600/IMG_3842.JPG" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
And Zach was so committed to his role as a baseball player...</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OBT05r4BfmY/VNK5YqaY6kI/AAAAAAAAGUg/TFnB8wKO_lo/s1600/IMG_3847.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OBT05r4BfmY/VNK5YqaY6kI/AAAAAAAAGUg/TFnB8wKO_lo/s1600/IMG_3847.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oCMdI3c9-ug/VNK5ZzBbugI/AAAAAAAAGUw/w0ik2hKpRUU/s1600/IMG_3848.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oCMdI3c9-ug/VNK5ZzBbugI/AAAAAAAAGUw/w0ik2hKpRUU/s1600/IMG_3848.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
that diving for an imaginary ball seemed totally appropriate. My 33 year old body could only think, "ouch".</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
thepainterfamilyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03460206307038444602noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6872492476452964343.post-55738605880479300082015-02-04T16:28:00.000-08:002015-02-04T16:28:31.018-08:00Kindergarten Pumpkin Patch Field Trip<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JpJmN58tL8E/VNK1qBmjikI/AAAAAAAAGT4/u21biN8AFfA/s1600/DPP_0005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JpJmN58tL8E/VNK1qBmjikI/AAAAAAAAGT4/u21biN8AFfA/s1600/DPP_0005.JPG" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FliXZOJHT8o/VNK1qDqPOPI/AAAAAAAAGT0/M5B2eZThL3M/s1600/DPP_0003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FliXZOJHT8o/VNK1qDqPOPI/AAAAAAAAGT0/M5B2eZThL3M/s1600/DPP_0003.JPG" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6EmQ_a4KwCE/VNK1qLQbCxI/AAAAAAAAGT8/DszzaSRpBn0/s1600/DPP_0004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6EmQ_a4KwCE/VNK1qLQbCxI/AAAAAAAAGT8/DszzaSRpBn0/s1600/DPP_0004.JPG" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We met Roman for his pumpkin patch field trip. It was a patch we had never been to, but loved. There were baby animals, bouncy attractions, a corn box and so many other things to see and do. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Unfortunately, it was unexpectedly cold that day. Brrrrrr. The weather certainly didn't follow the forecast so most people weren't prepared for the chill. We hustled from place to place and tried to smile for the camera for a quick pumpkin picture before we raced back onto the tractor's wagon to huddle together. It was fun to see Roman with his class. His teacher tells me every time I see her that Roman is a dream, always doing exactly what he is supposed to be doing. :) </div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qkdCfABwzNg/VNK1rPD8igI/AAAAAAAAGUM/PZZqLumy3Og/s1600/DPP_0006.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qkdCfABwzNg/VNK1rPD8igI/AAAAAAAAGUM/PZZqLumy3Og/s1600/DPP_0006.JPG" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />thepainterfamilyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03460206307038444602noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6872492476452964343.post-16216194777591093102015-02-04T16:08:00.000-08:002015-02-04T16:08:40.525-08:00Lily turns 8<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uf3asyQ8abg/VNKu2X7DsEI/AAAAAAAAGR0/c-Pxo02mRJ0/s1600/IMG_3606.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uf3asyQ8abg/VNKu2X7DsEI/AAAAAAAAGR0/c-Pxo02mRJ0/s1600/IMG_3606.JPG" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BDaSeJCrl5A/VNKu2VUHtfI/AAAAAAAAGRs/ufbT2upNDhk/s1600/IMG_3608.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BDaSeJCrl5A/VNKu2VUHtfI/AAAAAAAAGRs/ufbT2upNDhk/s1600/IMG_3608.JPG" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ifW4qXRAquA/VNKu2ez0q1I/AAAAAAAAGRw/3xHTMNU8ZR4/s1600/IMG_3614.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ifW4qXRAquA/VNKu2ez0q1I/AAAAAAAAGRw/3xHTMNU8ZR4/s1600/IMG_3614.JPG" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6KDxYPTfE8g/VNKu3YFzljI/AAAAAAAAGSE/NTundmFMtmM/s1600/IMG_3617.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6KDxYPTfE8g/VNKu3YFzljI/AAAAAAAAGSE/NTundmFMtmM/s1600/IMG_3617.JPG" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
My lovely little Lily turned 8. She invited everyone she knew to attend her baptism. Family, teachers, coaches, neighbors and friends all received an invitation to join her on this most special day. It turns out that she was baptized on her actual birthday. Afterwards, in the church parking lot, her grandparents and aunts surprised Lily with an electric scooter. It was a gift she had really been hoping for, and I think I will forever have in my memory the picture of Lily zooming around and around, her beautiful white dress whipping in the wind as she circled with giggles and glee. It was just so perfectly Lily. She is beautiful and feminine in every way, and so full of energy and adventure that the fancy dress and fast scooter combination really are the embodiment of her true self.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YG6RZfSUu_U/VNKwW3KeT7I/AAAAAAAAGSo/F0_aatNF8V4/s1600/IMG_3995.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YG6RZfSUu_U/VNKwW3KeT7I/AAAAAAAAGSo/F0_aatNF8V4/s1600/IMG_3995.JPG" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VkBxFR93DbE/VNKwX-ZnreI/AAAAAAAAGS0/RSZIrGrzPXs/s1600/IMG_4007.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VkBxFR93DbE/VNKwX-ZnreI/AAAAAAAAGS0/RSZIrGrzPXs/s1600/IMG_4007.JPG" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0osRW1tH__s/VNKwXouhFJI/AAAAAAAAGSw/NO9RVKM1wIA/s1600/IMG_4000.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0osRW1tH__s/VNKwXouhFJI/AAAAAAAAGSw/NO9RVKM1wIA/s1600/IMG_4000.JPG" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LF3g4H4OhBY/VNKwW5afOcI/AAAAAAAAGSk/DNc-vTe2ff0/s1600/IMG_3980.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LF3g4H4OhBY/VNKwW5afOcI/AAAAAAAAGSk/DNc-vTe2ff0/s1600/IMG_3980.JPG" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mL8V1jKLWEo/VNKwZOkAxwI/AAAAAAAAGTY/2s0g2rH8XIE/s1600/IMG_4040.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mL8V1jKLWEo/VNKwZOkAxwI/AAAAAAAAGTY/2s0g2rH8XIE/s1600/IMG_4040.JPG" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1T5LHP-Hcv4/VNKwYzkr1bI/AAAAAAAAGTQ/dUel3u6WuoQ/s1600/IMG_4030.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1T5LHP-Hcv4/VNKwYzkr1bI/AAAAAAAAGTQ/dUel3u6WuoQ/s1600/IMG_4030.JPG" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kCRztHBXK8k/VNKwYXlWS5I/AAAAAAAAGTE/qkKQUNJi2Ns/s1600/IMG_4022.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kCRztHBXK8k/VNKwYXlWS5I/AAAAAAAAGTE/qkKQUNJi2Ns/s1600/IMG_4022.JPG" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IkkgkVzepss/VNKwG2LLfCI/AAAAAAAAGSc/f8P30cjfZOo/s1600/20140906_134232.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IkkgkVzepss/VNKwG2LLfCI/AAAAAAAAGSc/f8P30cjfZOo/s1600/20140906_134232.jpg" height="640" width="360" /></a></div>
<br />thepainterfamilyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03460206307038444602noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6872492476452964343.post-14437079740654737982014-09-09T08:02:00.000-07:002014-09-09T08:02:57.363-07:00First Day <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rVHxNtcxeAM/VA8LcAZVaLI/AAAAAAAAGKQ/MQUgPVx36Ck/s1600/IMG_3551.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rVHxNtcxeAM/VA8LcAZVaLI/AAAAAAAAGKQ/MQUgPVx36Ck/s1600/IMG_3551.JPG" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YUtNUZljgns/VA8LZpuT-FI/AAAAAAAAGKA/OUoTYc9Wjwg/s1600/IMG_3553.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YUtNUZljgns/VA8LZpuT-FI/AAAAAAAAGKA/OUoTYc9Wjwg/s1600/IMG_3553.JPG" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9Rq3iahgiYU/VA8La5ThBuI/AAAAAAAAGKI/QHWemo9A7Gk/s1600/IMG_3554.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9Rq3iahgiYU/VA8La5ThBuI/AAAAAAAAGKI/QHWemo9A7Gk/s1600/IMG_3554.JPG" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CVFgizvpuAM/VA8Lzd1FYBI/AAAAAAAAGKg/aITbRKSflaI/s1600/IMG_3559.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CVFgizvpuAM/VA8Lzd1FYBI/AAAAAAAAGKg/aITbRKSflaI/s1600/IMG_3559.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-N2NZGjdUC-I/VA8Lu7lOqnI/AAAAAAAAGKY/WmTtJHZh-Mc/s1600/IMG_3562.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-N2NZGjdUC-I/VA8Lu7lOqnI/AAAAAAAAGKY/WmTtJHZh-Mc/s1600/IMG_3562.JPG" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YiQKU4YV7I8/VA8L1i2bMkI/AAAAAAAAGKo/m5heMw1y79E/s1600/IMG_3589.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YiQKU4YV7I8/VA8L1i2bMkI/AAAAAAAAGKo/m5heMw1y79E/s1600/IMG_3589.JPG" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PR95TYHDVFE/VA8L-JxMPkI/AAAAAAAAGKw/FYRoG5Ym5SA/s1600/IMG_3592.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PR95TYHDVFE/VA8L-JxMPkI/AAAAAAAAGKw/FYRoG5Ym5SA/s1600/IMG_3592.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
It's school time again for a certain 4th grader, 2nd grader, and kindergartner (!!) in our house. They are doing so well, love their teachers, are excited to see friends each day. It truly makes it a lot easier knowing that they are excited each and every day. (and pains me to think of my poor mom who had to deal with me...although I loved school eventually, I cried almost every day of kindergarten, didn't want to ride the bus and ran after her car while a patient secretary would walk me to my classroom.) Mornings are pretty wild around here. And although I did catch a few moments of peaceful, and beautiful first day action, its not always so smooth. Having a big and busy household means that I am constantly trying new things to help our routine. And from my experience, we really start off strong with high hopes every August. Signing every planner and reviewing the day, making delicious lunches, reading and recording minutes and book titles every night, homework packed, clothes set out, projects done, sports bags at the ready with everything they'll need plus a healthy snack, to just scratch the surface of responsibility. But I have not found a way to outsmart the 2nd law of thermodynamics, and by May it's often school lunches, wrinkled clothes, running (!!) not walking to the bus, and gosh darn it how much longer do we have to sign these planners! Ha!...so here's to our fresh start. Here's to trying something new. Here's to bigger and better, onward and upward. Precisely the reasons I will always love the beginning of a new school year.thepainterfamilyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03460206307038444602noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6872492476452964343.post-52118753662110342352014-08-20T11:33:00.000-07:002014-08-20T11:33:10.618-07:00Mount Rushmore & The Badlands<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eJyrnx1HT08/U_TepDkBKKI/AAAAAAAAGGw/AbaAvzxr7Ng/s1600/IMG_3513.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eJyrnx1HT08/U_TepDkBKKI/AAAAAAAAGGw/AbaAvzxr7Ng/s1600/IMG_3513.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xUxdgmQXYrI/U_Tea9YNPvI/AAAAAAAAGGg/FEZdDEKcGMs/s1600/IMG_3540.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xUxdgmQXYrI/U_Tea9YNPvI/AAAAAAAAGGg/FEZdDEKcGMs/s1600/IMG_3540.JPG" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5FtZRiEULM0/U_TejFgzcoI/AAAAAAAAGGo/1m6Swsp3M_g/s1600/IMG_3541.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5FtZRiEULM0/U_TejFgzcoI/AAAAAAAAGGo/1m6Swsp3M_g/s1600/IMG_3541.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CePeljIvjMk/U_Tesx9DbVI/AAAAAAAAGG4/GYyNSU1ukDs/s1600/IMG_3546.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CePeljIvjMk/U_Tesx9DbVI/AAAAAAAAGG4/GYyNSU1ukDs/s1600/IMG_3546.JPG" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
The drive home was loooong, but scenic. This far away from Kansas City, why not stop and see some of these iconic things. We went downstairs to the small museum and watched the movie about the history of Mt. Rushmore (so interesting!) and took the scenic route through Badlands National Park. On the drive home we listened to the Wizard of Oz Book on CD (who knew Dorothy's shoes were actually silver in the book! no ruby red slippers to mention :), the kids watched Annie (a few times!) and Poppy started calling me Ms. Hannigan and singing "it's a hard knock life" over and over. We pulled in to our driveway a lot later than expected (ahem, 4am), and fell into bed. Just today David and I were reminiscing and said we've both already forgotten the nightmarish parts of the drive, and are so glad Painter Roadtrip 2014 is in the books.thepainterfamilyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03460206307038444602noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6872492476452964343.post-37192894084246731252014-08-20T10:31:00.000-07:002014-08-20T10:31:50.332-07:00Yellowstone<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WA9GcfiCp1U/U_TEPQxfVNI/AAAAAAAAGEw/ziSXlEECs0s/s1600/IMG_3397.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WA9GcfiCp1U/U_TEPQxfVNI/AAAAAAAAGEw/ziSXlEECs0s/s1600/IMG_3397.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
We spotted a grizzly just 15 minutes outside of the gates to Yellowstone. That definitely set the mood for what we would experience during our 2 days in Yellowstone. (and maybe renewed my fear of getting eaten while tent camping!)<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1yD76fjtU94/U_TEQC1PcJI/AAAAAAAAGE8/KTJFM5oIYN0/s1600/IMG_3403.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1yD76fjtU94/U_TEQC1PcJI/AAAAAAAAGE8/KTJFM5oIYN0/s1600/IMG_3403.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
We drove to our campsite to get everything set up.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ggxLSGaE9kU/U_TEgAo2cbI/AAAAAAAAGFI/FlnjwVrkDKo/s1600/IMG_3407.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ggxLSGaE9kU/U_TEgAo2cbI/AAAAAAAAGFI/FlnjwVrkDKo/s1600/IMG_3407.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
And the kids were really intrigued with the bear box and insisted on being the ones to load it!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CqFuJTrLj70/U_TErnoekXI/AAAAAAAAGFY/3S4j2MUaWtg/s1600/IMG_3419.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CqFuJTrLj70/U_TErnoekXI/AAAAAAAAGFY/3S4j2MUaWtg/s1600/IMG_3419.JPG" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
The first day we explored all the geothermal areas, Old Faithful!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NOBE9EJWFIA/U_TEpvnFjqI/AAAAAAAAGFQ/Hf8iPBkUKPM/s1600/IMG_3427.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NOBE9EJWFIA/U_TEpvnFjqI/AAAAAAAAGFQ/Hf8iPBkUKPM/s1600/IMG_3427.JPG" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tQbBugJBRoA/U_TE0soPyRI/AAAAAAAAGFg/E3HXe53hfCw/s1600/IMG_3445.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tQbBugJBRoA/U_TE0soPyRI/AAAAAAAAGFg/E3HXe53hfCw/s1600/IMG_3445.JPG" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WqYUsObufqI/U_TE4l1ygCI/AAAAAAAAGFo/DWUjq0zu-gg/s1600/IMG_3450.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WqYUsObufqI/U_TE4l1ygCI/AAAAAAAAGFo/DWUjq0zu-gg/s1600/IMG_3450.JPG" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-um3bbmY1dPc/U_TFN4O5LEI/AAAAAAAAGF4/KHCcn8fX-8s/s1600/IMG_3461.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-um3bbmY1dPc/U_TFN4O5LEI/AAAAAAAAGF4/KHCcn8fX-8s/s1600/IMG_3461.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
Grand Prismatic Spring.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-k8NTEaA0X9g/U_TFCncar3I/AAAAAAAAGFw/aMSDgrOjWYs/s1600/IMG_3465.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-k8NTEaA0X9g/U_TFCncar3I/AAAAAAAAGFw/aMSDgrOjWYs/s1600/IMG_3465.JPG" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
We let the kids pick a souvenir. The boys both wanted a personalized Yellowstone pocket knife, and the girls each picked a stuffed wolf. Poppy brought her wolf with her to each sight and made sure "wolfy" had a spectacular view too.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rfaJpiFl-B4/U_TFWRn9KcI/AAAAAAAAGGA/G4McYpQFsMQ/s1600/IMG_3472.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rfaJpiFl-B4/U_TFWRn9KcI/AAAAAAAAGGA/G4McYpQFsMQ/s1600/IMG_3472.JPG" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DZ4_XTNtyTE/U_TFWxdn7CI/AAAAAAAAGGE/sfyg2bzbVsg/s1600/IMG_3477.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DZ4_XTNtyTE/U_TFWxdn7CI/AAAAAAAAGGE/sfyg2bzbVsg/s1600/IMG_3477.JPG" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
This little bee bee was a trooper. She spent lots of time in a carseat/stroller/backpack. But the tent is where she roamed free. Actually, almost all night long haha. All the other kids did great, fell asleep fast, and stayed warm with the 40 degree low. I think David and I woke up a million times to cover them up though.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dO-692QwpI8/U_TFb2IueHI/AAAAAAAAGGQ/ZZ7ti9kG_P0/s1600/IMG_3499.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dO-692QwpI8/U_TFb2IueHI/AAAAAAAAGGQ/ZZ7ti9kG_P0/s1600/IMG_3499.JPG" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
We were able to attend a Ranger Program (about grizzly bears) and the kids earned a Junior Ranger Patch. We visited a few museums, and were able to spot almost every large game animal at some point in the park (except we didn't see a black bear) which was pretty sweet! We made the large loop around the park and sometimes it felt other-worldly with boiling water and bubbling mud. Only once did Poppy fall off a boardwalk, and roll towards the boiling water. No joke. So many interesting formations and geological history. Honestly, we could have spent so many more days here. And if we had more time before school started, I think we would have! At the end of the 2nd day in Yellowstone, we said our good-byes and spent the night in Cody, WY.thepainterfamilyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03460206307038444602noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6872492476452964343.post-84973175517697720792014-08-20T09:53:00.000-07:002014-08-20T09:53:07.824-07:00Grand Teton National Park - Jenny Lake<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fC5MVwqb2xE/U_TDnsQfcjI/AAAAAAAAGEQ/AAPYKSGcpqE/s1600/IMG_3354.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fC5MVwqb2xE/U_TDnsQfcjI/AAAAAAAAGEQ/AAPYKSGcpqE/s1600/IMG_3354.JPG" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vLXecHJkVjw/U_TD4NThmEI/AAAAAAAAGEY/lY0UZ45LV3M/s1600/IMG_3374.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vLXecHJkVjw/U_TD4NThmEI/AAAAAAAAGEY/lY0UZ45LV3M/s1600/IMG_3374.JPG" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VkBqEGJrRt0/U_TD78tT4HI/AAAAAAAAGEo/vvzUCLDzrjo/s1600/IMG_3383.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VkBqEGJrRt0/U_TD78tT4HI/AAAAAAAAGEo/vvzUCLDzrjo/s1600/IMG_3383.JPG" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6UvyOOtBFWc/U_TEQhlY35I/AAAAAAAAGE4/_OZVMORed_k/s1600/IMG_3389.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6UvyOOtBFWc/U_TEQhlY35I/AAAAAAAAGE4/_OZVMORed_k/s1600/IMG_3389.JPG" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yeM9WOXj06o/U_TD6MRRDBI/AAAAAAAAGEg/-wSlXXxWqlM/s1600/IMG_3386.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yeM9WOXj06o/U_TD6MRRDBI/AAAAAAAAGEg/-wSlXXxWqlM/s1600/IMG_3386.JPG" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-znO-iJ_wvpY/U_TDlzXTRiI/AAAAAAAAGEI/DgZVw6SGgJU/s1600/IMG_3363.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-znO-iJ_wvpY/U_TDlzXTRiI/AAAAAAAAGEI/DgZVw6SGgJU/s1600/IMG_3363.JPG" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RhqRo4rc4M4/U_TDdVO6ajI/AAAAAAAAGEA/Kk3vvHzaZSc/s1600/IMG_3365.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RhqRo4rc4M4/U_TDdVO6ajI/AAAAAAAAGEA/Kk3vvHzaZSc/s1600/IMG_3365.JPG" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Day 1 of our vacation consisted of a little bit of a late start (despite allll the planning haha), 14 hrs on the road, lots of electronics for the kids, Hank the Cowdog book on CD, fast food and medium fast Qdoba, rest stop races, about 10 magazines for me, and a roadside Lincoln Memorial before everyone fell asleep. Whew.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Day 2 we woke up and the kids played at our hosts playground (we stayed 2 nights in the guest house of David's friend Brad.) They were honestly just as thrilled with the trampoline as they were with the fact they were on vacation :) We drove in to Jackson Hole and then on to Grand Teton. It felt great to hike around Jenny Lake and play in the water after all that driving. I also loved having a low key agenda. And being in such a different landscape than what they are used to was super fun. The kids oohed and ahhed over the mountains and all the details they were seeing. (AND 60 degree highs and NO humidity in August!) They had binoculars and water bottles and maps full of information, they took it all so seriously.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I love to see these kids out in nature, they are in their element. We decided kind of last minute to make this trip. Spurred on by a few things, one of them being our day in the nature sanctuary. They really enjoy being explorers, and the imagination and teamwork that happens in these kinds of places is amazing. We knew we wanted to do it on a much larger scale. Also, back in July we watched a documentary on Yellowstone. David was like, we are going. (he had never been) And I'm more, uh, that requires an insane amount of planning for a family our size. And him, what? no. easy. I'm gonna make it happen. So I agreed. Ha! If he would plan everything. And he totally did, down to roadside attractions and restaurants. Although, I'm sure those details were strictly to satisfy me. Honestly, it was just what our family needed, after years of working straight through the summer, it felt so good to end this summer with time together.</div>
thepainterfamilyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03460206307038444602noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6872492476452964343.post-75185501226538089952014-08-17T22:23:00.000-07:002014-08-17T22:23:12.238-07:00I'm just so glad these kids have a dad. One who turns 100ft of plastic and a bottle of soap into a freaking awesome summer afternoon.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-poDmFMV9zAA/U_GJkztGhHI/AAAAAAAAGCg/qz1ymKHgIk8/s1600/IMG_3235.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-poDmFMV9zAA/U_GJkztGhHI/AAAAAAAAGCg/qz1ymKHgIk8/s1600/IMG_3235.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qc9jd3dyLlk/U_GJlyGTSXI/AAAAAAAAGCk/iPRwTa4M3vA/s1600/IMG_3222.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qc9jd3dyLlk/U_GJlyGTSXI/AAAAAAAAGCk/iPRwTa4M3vA/s1600/IMG_3222.JPG" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-K8ptKqmSIV8/U_GJiQbVRyI/AAAAAAAAGCY/hOUoQFopT9o/s1600/IMG_3255.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-K8ptKqmSIV8/U_GJiQbVRyI/AAAAAAAAGCY/hOUoQFopT9o/s1600/IMG_3255.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Ph8Viz0t7cw/U_GJ4aD6JMI/AAAAAAAAGC8/sTqGWS9IJjc/s1600/IMG_3259.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Ph8Viz0t7cw/U_GJ4aD6JMI/AAAAAAAAGC8/sTqGWS9IJjc/s1600/IMG_3259.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-J1MDQp9YxvI/U_GJ3dFzwCI/AAAAAAAAGCw/sjqTRwX7Jo4/s1600/IMG_3275.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-J1MDQp9YxvI/U_GJ3dFzwCI/AAAAAAAAGCw/sjqTRwX7Jo4/s1600/IMG_3275.JPG" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BmAMLvc7q9A/U_GJ4fONz9I/AAAAAAAAGC4/xIrnmF9JCVc/s1600/IMG_3276.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BmAMLvc7q9A/U_GJ4fONz9I/AAAAAAAAGC4/xIrnmF9JCVc/s1600/IMG_3276.JPG" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iSgNjFdFHjg/U_GKGFEoBNI/AAAAAAAAGDQ/FkBF7nwEqS8/s1600/IMG_3279.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iSgNjFdFHjg/U_GKGFEoBNI/AAAAAAAAGDQ/FkBF7nwEqS8/s1600/IMG_3279.JPG" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IGjdQymKtj0/U_GKBcQ-N8I/AAAAAAAAGDI/rl-hn2Pvqo4/s1600/IMG_3281.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IGjdQymKtj0/U_GKBcQ-N8I/AAAAAAAAGDI/rl-hn2Pvqo4/s1600/IMG_3281.JPG" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yMcfG1YD1uM/U_GKHpTMDHI/AAAAAAAAGDY/OZduZZM_-Og/s1600/IMG_3305.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yMcfG1YD1uM/U_GKHpTMDHI/AAAAAAAAGDY/OZduZZM_-Og/s1600/IMG_3305.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />thepainterfamilyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03460206307038444602noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6872492476452964343.post-7245001192472947252014-08-17T21:35:00.000-07:002014-08-17T21:35:16.721-07:004th of July<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kCbVK2LH6oo/U_F_2nodJ5I/AAAAAAAAGBo/HtYNciv7TeY/s1600/IMG_3149.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kCbVK2LH6oo/U_F_2nodJ5I/AAAAAAAAGBo/HtYNciv7TeY/s1600/IMG_3149.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
This year, my parents were going to be out of town, so for the first time in (ever), we needed to make our own Independence Day plans. Very last minute we decided to have a little BBQ at our home. With some friends. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-a9f18CmiWZU/U_F_xKgFYZI/AAAAAAAAGBg/ZVM3s5HELCs/s1600/IMG_3167.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-a9f18CmiWZU/U_F_xKgFYZI/AAAAAAAAGBg/ZVM3s5HELCs/s1600/IMG_3167.JPG" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
Mormon friends! Ha! So that means lots of kids. And sparklers lit by a blow torch. You know.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eqE8j0W2LFs/U_GADfDQhtI/AAAAAAAAGB0/RLtUQZhNj2U/s1600/IMG_3170.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eqE8j0W2LFs/U_GADfDQhtI/AAAAAAAAGB0/RLtUQZhNj2U/s1600/IMG_3170.JPG" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
We thought, shoot, these kids are so cute. We need a photograph. Except, when us moms had them all seated, with our cameras ready, their dads had begun a pyrotechnic endeavor in the street...<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6YFQuAWF2fw/U_GAAzMj8lI/AAAAAAAAGBw/O4tl_s-tk98/s1600/IMG_3182.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6YFQuAWF2fw/U_GAAzMj8lI/AAAAAAAAGBw/O4tl_s-tk98/s1600/IMG_3182.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LQKsb1jFaoE/U_GAGntFk9I/AAAAAAAAGCA/_KnckzRXboI/s1600/IMG_3185.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LQKsb1jFaoE/U_GAGntFk9I/AAAAAAAAGCA/_KnckzRXboI/s1600/IMG_3185.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-X790BeEqE7w/U_GAK_7U09I/AAAAAAAAGCI/IMpj4hUSUt8/s1600/IMG_3187.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-X790BeEqE7w/U_GAK_7U09I/AAAAAAAAGCI/IMpj4hUSUt8/s1600/IMG_3187.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Fireworks always win. And all of the pictures look like this. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Which in the end, was kind of perfect. It was a happy 4th of July.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-L0QVoDv2ciY/U_F_vhMd3vI/AAAAAAAAGBY/sjPxI6-37nM/s1600/IMG_3158.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-L0QVoDv2ciY/U_F_vhMd3vI/AAAAAAAAGBY/sjPxI6-37nM/s1600/IMG_3158.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
thepainterfamilyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03460206307038444602noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6872492476452964343.post-59587394473845321612014-07-07T15:33:00.000-07:002014-07-07T15:33:53.013-07:00Birthday Babe<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eWTauTBtpIM/U7sIDwQ8s-I/AAAAAAAAFJQ/XBO3duTfBZ0/s1600/IMG_2954.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eWTauTBtpIM/U7sIDwQ8s-I/AAAAAAAAFJQ/XBO3duTfBZ0/s1600/IMG_2954.JPG" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EUIXVxaQm4w/U7sIDj2IusI/AAAAAAAAFJI/ZhWQJpzspcg/s1600/IMG_2969.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EUIXVxaQm4w/U7sIDj2IusI/AAAAAAAAFJI/ZhWQJpzspcg/s1600/IMG_2969.JPG" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vqwhYctwTUc/U7sIC8btWtI/AAAAAAAAFJE/GmTq-tA8Nwo/s1600/IMG_2970.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vqwhYctwTUc/U7sIC8btWtI/AAAAAAAAFJE/GmTq-tA8Nwo/s1600/IMG_2970.JPG" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0EUd1qN4i8w/U7sIaO81-RI/AAAAAAAAFJc/TLp6nU8ng00/s1600/IMG_2981.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0EUd1qN4i8w/U7sIaO81-RI/AAAAAAAAFJc/TLp6nU8ng00/s1600/IMG_2981.JPG" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fSQGpgS9FwQ/U7sIcoXgs2I/AAAAAAAAFJk/neHr01_HeTk/s1600/IMG_2986.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fSQGpgS9FwQ/U7sIcoXgs2I/AAAAAAAAFJk/neHr01_HeTk/s1600/IMG_2986.JPG" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ku9cfOwkKjU/U7sIqt35jdI/AAAAAAAAFJs/5Vc8YG7Tsa4/s1600/IMG_3008.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ku9cfOwkKjU/U7sIqt35jdI/AAAAAAAAFJs/5Vc8YG7Tsa4/s1600/IMG_3008.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-w6nsWlBiFWw/U7sI-jnlkII/AAAAAAAAFJ0/qD8al4IvWLs/s1600/IMG_3013.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-w6nsWlBiFWw/U7sI-jnlkII/AAAAAAAAFJ0/qD8al4IvWLs/s1600/IMG_3013.JPG" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5yLbvcXiLCc/U7sJLWVLN2I/AAAAAAAAFJ8/eXxH_dFsAzk/s1600/IMG_3028.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5yLbvcXiLCc/U7sJLWVLN2I/AAAAAAAAFJ8/eXxH_dFsAzk/s1600/IMG_3028.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SRDsMRQIgYk/U7sJVGJg3ZI/AAAAAAAAFKE/HVmSMZNgdYI/s1600/IMG_3037.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SRDsMRQIgYk/U7sJVGJg3ZI/AAAAAAAAFKE/HVmSMZNgdYI/s1600/IMG_3037.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GcUFlGPJ73c/U7sJipOCFcI/AAAAAAAAFKQ/LHWsiI-Tm_8/s1600/IMG_3055.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GcUFlGPJ73c/U7sJipOCFcI/AAAAAAAAFKQ/LHWsiI-Tm_8/s1600/IMG_3055.JPG" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
Violet and I had our picture taken a little later that night! Couldn't miss <i>my</i> opportunity with the birthday lady!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-X63u1IhWTJY/U7sJmU6QdAI/AAAAAAAAFKc/HoLtDYD9KO4/s1600/IMG_3071.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-X63u1IhWTJY/U7sJmU6QdAI/AAAAAAAAFKc/HoLtDYD9KO4/s1600/IMG_3071.JPG" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
Oh my little Violet is 1! We celebrated with family. Grammie and Papa, the Reese family, Anna and LT, Kyle and Sarah, Grandma Sloan, and Sylvia all came to watch the baby eat her cake. I decorated in a Farmer's Market theme, and we ate pasta salad, caprese salad, homemade breads and a peach and raspberry trifle alongside the traditional 1st birthday carrot cake. Her sisters loved helping her open her gifts, and oohhhhed and aaaahhhed over her name plaque, new clothes and little mouse ride on toy. First birthday's are always super sentimental, and this time just as much if not more so. I kept thinking, have I really thrown five 1st birthday parties? I remember the details and excitement of each one so vividly. Violet is crawling like a speed demon, but I think it will be a bit longer before she ventures out on two legs! :) She is still crazy for her mama, and trust me, the feeling is mutual!thepainterfamilyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03460206307038444602noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6872492476452964343.post-48768274621300829692014-07-07T12:47:00.000-07:002014-07-07T12:47:08.844-07:00PIGTAILS!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2m9iVniX_P4/U7r3qvZsMGI/AAAAAAAAFIY/R1lIkTpR0HE/s1600/IMG_2624.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2m9iVniX_P4/U7r3qvZsMGI/AAAAAAAAFIY/R1lIkTpR0HE/s1600/IMG_2624.JPG" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-e6qr2PXoank/U7r3q2053iI/AAAAAAAAFIc/1-XlU5gcUlc/s1600/IMG_2628.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-e6qr2PXoank/U7r3q2053iI/AAAAAAAAFIc/1-XlU5gcUlc/s1600/IMG_2628.JPG" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4nJYhmrIxvU/U7r3qXiESjI/AAAAAAAAFIU/t9WdiBhp27g/s1600/IMG_2629.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4nJYhmrIxvU/U7r3qXiESjI/AAAAAAAAFIU/t9WdiBhp27g/s1600/IMG_2629.JPG" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-08XGV3yqHjg/U7r31POKsfI/AAAAAAAAFIs/5yi5i2ggQSk/s1600/IMG_2631.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-08XGV3yqHjg/U7r31POKsfI/AAAAAAAAFIs/5yi5i2ggQSk/s1600/IMG_2631.JPG" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
It's kind of a big deal when a Painter girl finally grows enough hair for piggies! Poppy was excited to get her own mini clips and hair ties. She asks me for pig tails every day and then looks at herself admiringly in the mirror. Ha! She's truly a riot.thepainterfamilyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03460206307038444602noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6872492476452964343.post-30786978207237642672014-07-07T12:27:00.000-07:002014-07-07T12:27:54.033-07:00Just before a change<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wt2AWsFJE3I/U7rvV7Bj6xI/AAAAAAAAFHk/jDlIXyxFwIk/s1600/IMG_2568.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wt2AWsFJE3I/U7rvV7Bj6xI/AAAAAAAAFHk/jDlIXyxFwIk/s1600/IMG_2568.JPG" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AnFFUn_TGLI/U7rvj7T6FqI/AAAAAAAAFH4/D-QzaMlBTF0/s1600/IMG_2570.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AnFFUn_TGLI/U7rvj7T6FqI/AAAAAAAAFH4/D-QzaMlBTF0/s1600/IMG_2570.JPG" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8w0lacutHVU/U7rvP7zRrXI/AAAAAAAAFHg/CKMvhtfKBLI/s1600/IMG_2562.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8w0lacutHVU/U7rvP7zRrXI/AAAAAAAAFHg/CKMvhtfKBLI/s1600/IMG_2562.JPG" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DfenT7PZQ4M/U7rvPIgZKFI/AAAAAAAAFHc/uOZgHdiIvJs/s1600/IMG_2563.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DfenT7PZQ4M/U7rvPIgZKFI/AAAAAAAAFHc/uOZgHdiIvJs/s1600/IMG_2563.JPG" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Gb7dTnioIT0/U7rviSYfsTI/AAAAAAAAFH0/dGJpFC_5-1o/s1600/IMG_2601.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Gb7dTnioIT0/U7rviSYfsTI/AAAAAAAAFH0/dGJpFC_5-1o/s1600/IMG_2601.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-k1oh7-W7YT4/U7rvnlPNe4I/AAAAAAAAFIA/NlwlGx9yC3Y/s1600/IMG_2609.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-k1oh7-W7YT4/U7rvnlPNe4I/AAAAAAAAFIA/NlwlGx9yC3Y/s1600/IMG_2609.JPG" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lH_RLa8JQ1I/U7rvsx1s8HI/AAAAAAAAFII/nF6UGVrwCMU/s1600/IMG_2614.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lH_RLa8JQ1I/U7rvsx1s8HI/AAAAAAAAFII/nF6UGVrwCMU/s1600/IMG_2614.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
It was one of those gorgeous, leave the door open, mornings in May. Only a few weeks before school let out for summer, and I walked around the kitchen breathing in the fresh air and realizing that this chapter in my life was about to close. These three little loves home with me all day, our routines, our simple lunches, and the occasional errand or outing were about to be replaced with the hustle and bustle of our summer schedule. And then come fall, Roman is off to kindergarten (!!!), leaving me and the two girlies. I felt gratitude for my blessings, but also for the ability and time to actually see and delight in them.</div>
thepainterfamilyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03460206307038444602noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6872492476452964343.post-90777686166372189312014-07-07T10:48:00.000-07:002014-07-07T10:48:08.044-07:00Arsenal Spring Season<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-oIevlBlSmqU/U7rVCpSNfaI/AAAAAAAAFGg/1KErmgRk_Xk/s1600/IMG_2496.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-oIevlBlSmqU/U7rVCpSNfaI/AAAAAAAAFGg/1KErmgRk_Xk/s1600/IMG_2496.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CDzQ1tJAvpE/U7rVC6_PUdI/AAAAAAAAFGY/hFuzR_5tQQY/s1600/IMG_2514.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CDzQ1tJAvpE/U7rVC6_PUdI/AAAAAAAAFGY/hFuzR_5tQQY/s1600/IMG_2514.JPG" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--YucwPJ0EvM/U7rVCFOXwTI/AAAAAAAAFGU/2Iw75LFzc84/s1600/IMG_2532.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--YucwPJ0EvM/U7rVCFOXwTI/AAAAAAAAFGU/2Iw75LFzc84/s1600/IMG_2532.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Ev0dp7K_mGk/U7rVPxmF2LI/AAAAAAAAFGs/Vyymp01Mh90/s1600/IMG_2533.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Ev0dp7K_mGk/U7rVPxmF2LI/AAAAAAAAFGs/Vyymp01Mh90/s1600/IMG_2533.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MGg77v5oej4/U7rVRYwm6kI/AAAAAAAAFG0/H00YaU_kzb4/s1600/IMG_2534.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MGg77v5oej4/U7rVRYwm6kI/AAAAAAAAFG0/H00YaU_kzb4/s1600/IMG_2534.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
I love this kid. I love the passion with which he plays. He's a walking sports encyclopedia too, so that can be helpful. The other day he was telling me about the end of the Brazil / Columbia World Cup game. There was a player from the loosing Colombian team who broke down into tears as the time expired. He was later quoted as saying, "I'm crying because we gave everything we had inside of us". And then, some Brazil players came to console him, telling him he was a great player and trading jerseys (a soccer thing). Zach tried to get the story out, but was choking up every time he would add a new detail. It made a big impression on him. I love that he wants to be good. He wants to be a great player AND a great person. And he totally totally will be. Both.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uRt1XHefLy8/U7raGWRfJLI/AAAAAAAAFHE/fxrNMIrgKGQ/s1600/article-2681589-1F66CA8E00000578-493_634x365.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uRt1XHefLy8/U7raGWRfJLI/AAAAAAAAFHE/fxrNMIrgKGQ/s1600/article-2681589-1F66CA8E00000578-493_634x365.jpg" height="184" width="320" /></a></div>
thepainterfamilyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03460206307038444602noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6872492476452964343.post-51857398025434355082014-07-07T09:49:00.002-07:002014-07-07T09:49:37.672-07:00Lily's Missouri State Meet March 2014<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BDOgXfNtyUA/U7rGgmFf2gI/AAAAAAAAFEE/J1cQ1fLbI5A/s1600/_AK_5585.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BDOgXfNtyUA/U7rGgmFf2gI/AAAAAAAAFEE/J1cQ1fLbI5A/s1600/_AK_5585.JPG" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-O7IqVsQyLyc/U7rGfnzh9JI/AAAAAAAAFD0/_3uZbqW2wlQ/s1600/_AK_7491.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-O7IqVsQyLyc/U7rGfnzh9JI/AAAAAAAAFD0/_3uZbqW2wlQ/s1600/_AK_7491.JPG" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rO-C27IBgDc/U7rGgi3zM3I/AAAAAAAAFD8/50ktp5k0Ga4/s1600/_AK_7502.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rO-C27IBgDc/U7rGgi3zM3I/AAAAAAAAFD8/50ktp5k0Ga4/s1600/_AK_7502.JPG" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-F2SWDCg-kos/U7rGrEnsgkI/AAAAAAAAFEM/vU9K9JnrqaY/s1600/_AK_7514A.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-F2SWDCg-kos/U7rGrEnsgkI/AAAAAAAAFEM/vU9K9JnrqaY/s1600/_AK_7514A.JPG" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RYMrepL9agQ/U7rGwFjpNeI/AAAAAAAAFEU/34eNV-Chba8/s1600/_AK_7524.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RYMrepL9agQ/U7rGwFjpNeI/AAAAAAAAFEU/34eNV-Chba8/s1600/_AK_7524.JPG" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QjlhkFpZ8pg/U7rGxUVHfgI/AAAAAAAAFEc/MTTNEAtfC8E/s1600/_AK_7546.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QjlhkFpZ8pg/U7rGxUVHfgI/AAAAAAAAFEc/MTTNEAtfC8E/s1600/_AK_7546.JPG" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4GwwIyREHiM/U7rHBIijT9I/AAAAAAAAFE0/xbZzMVk-Dj8/s1600/_AK_7553.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4GwwIyREHiM/U7rHBIijT9I/AAAAAAAAFE0/xbZzMVk-Dj8/s1600/_AK_7553.JPG" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MwZ-xitVJ4M/U7rG9ra-FgI/AAAAAAAAFEk/lJwSM1smoLE/s1600/_AK_7560.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MwZ-xitVJ4M/U7rG9ra-FgI/AAAAAAAAFEk/lJwSM1smoLE/s1600/_AK_7560.JPG" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gYCiTbf6Uao/U7rG-LwA0hI/AAAAAAAAFEo/RjCtMCWNwfE/s1600/_AK_7567A.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gYCiTbf6Uao/U7rG-LwA0hI/AAAAAAAAFEo/RjCtMCWNwfE/s1600/_AK_7567A.JPG" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZxbyDnDvl3M/U7rHFw3SJBI/AAAAAAAAFE8/nf0MmcwXMtM/s1600/_STK1129A.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZxbyDnDvl3M/U7rHFw3SJBI/AAAAAAAAFE8/nf0MmcwXMtM/s1600/_STK1129A.JPG" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QnKuIk6tk5Y/U7rHOtc7qEI/AAAAAAAAFFE/WBkti2VURA0/s1600/_STK1209.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QnKuIk6tk5Y/U7rHOtc7qEI/AAAAAAAAFFE/WBkti2VURA0/s1600/_STK1209.JPG" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Ic6WkXTCNRc/U7rHPS8tb2I/AAAAAAAAFFI/OgSL9BWdDIc/s1600/_STK1213A.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Ic6WkXTCNRc/U7rHPS8tb2I/AAAAAAAAFFI/OgSL9BWdDIc/s1600/_STK1213A.JPG" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZUm_LxDFcEY/U7rHRKfgmAI/AAAAAAAAFFU/OGpUwqa9Ii8/s1600/_STK1216A.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZUm_LxDFcEY/U7rHRKfgmAI/AAAAAAAAFFU/OGpUwqa9Ii8/s1600/_STK1216A.JPG" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BbgliP2KwEk/U7rHZjQNexI/AAAAAAAAFFg/tLiGMKKML6M/s1600/_STK1228A.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BbgliP2KwEk/U7rHZjQNexI/AAAAAAAAFFg/tLiGMKKML6M/s1600/_STK1228A.JPG" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Pq26FKa-Nz8/U7rHZYKcJlI/AAAAAAAAFFc/cGE-j8vGyQg/s1600/_STK1248A.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Pq26FKa-Nz8/U7rHZYKcJlI/AAAAAAAAFFc/cGE-j8vGyQg/s1600/_STK1248A.JPG" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Oh man, seeing these photographs again makes me tear up all over. Lily had a great time at her first state meet. She was so excited to travel to St. Louis (stay in a hotel!) and compete with all the other 7 year old level 3s in the state. She was beautiful and so artistic to watch. You can actually see me in the background of a couple of the beam photos, I was taking video, and loving every second. I thought she did so great. She ended up placing 4th in beam and 5th in vault and I think 10th overall. It's amazing to me for a couple reasons. There were 70 some girls (all 7 year old level 3!), competition was tough. Also, Lily was only able to compete in 3 of her 6 meets this year due to them being scheduled on Sunday. She had half the experience of most girls there, but was still able to do well. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JRx1V6mGvlg/U7rJAg0QyMI/AAAAAAAAFF0/dbphTi8nlmk/s1600/IMG_2540.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JRx1V6mGvlg/U7rJAg0QyMI/AAAAAAAAFF0/dbphTi8nlmk/s1600/IMG_2540.JPG" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-e4zcF0s27Ac/U7rKXueQucI/AAAAAAAAFGE/6A9UldMC0xc/s1600/IMG_2544.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-e4zcF0s27Ac/U7rKXueQucI/AAAAAAAAFGE/6A9UldMC0xc/s1600/IMG_2544.JPG" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
At the end of the season banquet, Lily was awarded "hardest worker" for her level. They give 2 awards each year, so it was quite the honor to be selected. Her coach mentioned the fact that even on weeks when Lily knew she wasn't going to be able to compete in the upcoming meet, she was still in the gym, giving it her all. I told Lily that honestly, that was the best kind of achievement for this season. I was most proud of that distinction over any other 1st place medals from this year.</div>
thepainterfamilyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03460206307038444602noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6872492476452964343.post-7212423166664959612014-05-01T12:27:00.000-07:002014-05-01T12:27:52.359-07:00April April where did you go?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JhhOJ1ynyCE/U2KJn7esEFI/AAAAAAAAE9M/PY61hf8rmfg/s1600/2014-05-01+11.08.31+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JhhOJ1ynyCE/U2KJn7esEFI/AAAAAAAAE9M/PY61hf8rmfg/s1600/2014-05-01+11.08.31+1.jpg" height="640" width="425" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lQr8IjSxLnA/U2KHmraenHI/AAAAAAAAE8E/ObA82q9BSEQ/s1600/IMG_2388.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lQr8IjSxLnA/U2KHmraenHI/AAAAAAAAE8E/ObA82q9BSEQ/s1600/IMG_2388.JPG" height="640" width="425" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--N5xCfvvTuc/U2KJu3ojLzI/AAAAAAAAE9U/IMHkTn9ZmO0/s1600/2014-05-01+11.07.51+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--N5xCfvvTuc/U2KJu3ojLzI/AAAAAAAAE9U/IMHkTn9ZmO0/s1600/2014-05-01+11.07.51+1.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
April was a big month for Roman! He turned 5! He wanted breakfast in bed, he wanted a carrot cake, and he wanted a transformer. Marquise and Roman had a birthday party in the park. They are two adorable best bud cousins. (Shared a due date! But born 2 weeks apart.) They also wrapped up their first soccer season together. Oh dear. They were unstoppable. Very very literally. Although no score was officially kept, they knew that they won every single game haha. It's just what comes from having big brothers. Poor kids can't just start with "fun" soccer. They were out for blood from the beginning. I woke up on the day of Roman's first game to hear Zachary putting Roman through drills designed to get him ready for his debut. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZaWlKppt6rk/U2KHoAhaEhI/AAAAAAAAE8U/_FuEX1GeNpU/s1600/IMG_2406.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZaWlKppt6rk/U2KHoAhaEhI/AAAAAAAAE8U/_FuEX1GeNpU/s1600/IMG_2406.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
And then it was time for Easter. I felt pretty good about getting their buckets done. I searched high and low to find buckets that were similar in size to match the ones I bought for the first 3. Thank goodness for the internet. And tireless google searches. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-60mumNbxR4Y/U2KJvfihrSI/AAAAAAAAE9g/sjfoIScPmA0/s1600/2014-05-01+11.08.06+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-60mumNbxR4Y/U2KJvfihrSI/AAAAAAAAE9g/sjfoIScPmA0/s1600/2014-05-01+11.08.06+1.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Easter Egg hunt in my parents neighborhood. I personally just laughed out loud that this bunny was so in character...look at his hands!! Held like that for countless pictures with children no doubt hahahaha. But what would the alternative look like? Bunny with hands on knees...or hanging down by his side? I'm guessing this is the sort of thing that can only be learned by trial and error. Or maybe helpful instructions are provided when you rent a bunny suit? I digress.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sPIeolvoNsg/U2KHlw2agVI/AAAAAAAAE8I/XaqrEjfU1wY/s1600/IMG_2409.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sPIeolvoNsg/U2KHlw2agVI/AAAAAAAAE8I/XaqrEjfU1wY/s1600/IMG_2409.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
Easter Dinner and Egg hunt with the family. Violet is super duper attached to me..but she is taking a liking to her da-da too. Just this morning I was changing her diaper and she heard the garage door open (it was actually just Poppy) but she started in with "da da....da da....da da" because she knows that hearing that sound means this fun guy is going to pop in, find her, and kiss her :) It was pretty cute.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dVEWRIXIorc/U2KH595-SLI/AAAAAAAAE8g/j-k5A5KWlLU/s1600/IMG_2414.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dVEWRIXIorc/U2KH595-SLI/AAAAAAAAE8g/j-k5A5KWlLU/s1600/IMG_2414.JPG" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
As always, we follow a staggered approach to cousin egg hunts. Toddlers first, then the middle guys next and the big crazies are released at last. It's always pretty funny to see them bolting from the door.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kJ65vfw2n98/U2KH6UZLZHI/AAAAAAAAE8s/_w6d82mEB9U/s1600/IMG_2415.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kJ65vfw2n98/U2KH6UZLZHI/AAAAAAAAE8s/_w6d82mEB9U/s1600/IMG_2415.JPG" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EQSjP7QjJRY/U2KH6YpQCsI/AAAAAAAAE8o/InnHn0CuQEs/s1600/IMG_2418.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EQSjP7QjJRY/U2KH6YpQCsI/AAAAAAAAE8o/InnHn0CuQEs/s1600/IMG_2418.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yP0VbjF_9So/U2Kaajk_1NI/AAAAAAAAE90/IIzUp5TPboE/s1600/PhotoGrid_1398970896832.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yP0VbjF_9So/U2Kaajk_1NI/AAAAAAAAE90/IIzUp5TPboE/s1600/PhotoGrid_1398970896832.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3g4gAl72ZS0/U2KIOh1uFqI/AAAAAAAAE80/H9PbJ1voz-M/s1600/IMG_2434.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3g4gAl72ZS0/U2KIOh1uFqI/AAAAAAAAE80/H9PbJ1voz-M/s1600/IMG_2434.JPG" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-g6MDBdyotKw/U2KISXFyfQI/AAAAAAAAE9E/mrCheM1rDoU/s1600/IMG_2468.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-g6MDBdyotKw/U2KISXFyfQI/AAAAAAAAE9E/mrCheM1rDoU/s1600/IMG_2468.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
And finally, these little Easter chicks...one of which was not a fan of the grass.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Ok, not entirely "final".</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I will mention one other April happening.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Starting at the end of last year, I began feeling this great urge to get a little more prepared for emergencies. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I know, this is kind of a bummer way to round out a post.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Rest assured I don't think the world is ending...</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
But eventually I started having dreams...and just all signs pointing to...DO IT. like NOW.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
And one day I couldn't stand it any longer, I literally just dropped everything I was doing and organized these intense 72hr kits for everyone in our family. It took over our dining room for a couple days. I would look out my window in the evening as I was feverishly working and see neighbors walking their dogs and waving to me and prayed they didn't think I was crazy because I was surrounded by a room full of survival bars, packets of water, emergency blankets, ponchos and flares and flashlights and, and and...</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Really though, my kids were hungry and I was like, "oh sweetie, grab a cheese stick and an apple."</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I ordered supplies from websites, shopped Walmart, and finally rounded up a bunch of stuff we already owned but that has been jumbled and bumbled throughout moves.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
And now I can sleep at night.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Amen.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
May, I'm ready for ya.</div>
<br />thepainterfamilyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03460206307038444602noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6872492476452964343.post-8899652150290371862014-03-20T20:14:00.001-07:002014-03-20T20:14:31.673-07:00A First (mini) Haircut<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pe6G8cxSQ8I/UyupMgvTdtI/AAAAAAAAEy8/Tx0RAA8vH1w/s1600/IMG_2070.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pe6G8cxSQ8I/UyupMgvTdtI/AAAAAAAAEy8/Tx0RAA8vH1w/s1600/IMG_2070.JPG" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AM9j-qExWBo/UyupMGN8y0I/AAAAAAAAEzA/zgN7zCKtdJE/s1600/IMG_2064.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AM9j-qExWBo/UyupMGN8y0I/AAAAAAAAEzA/zgN7zCKtdJE/s1600/IMG_2064.JPG" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I think Poppy officially holds the title in our family at 2 1/2, for making it this far without needing a haircut. Although, she most definitely sat on her perch and chatted it up with her hairdresser like she was a regular. Oh Poppy. I love that little pixie.</div>
thepainterfamilyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03460206307038444602noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6872492476452964343.post-85667107160220940012014-03-20T20:05:00.000-07:002014-03-20T20:05:26.418-07:00En Plein Air<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6xvhj04HRZM/UyupapRL0uI/AAAAAAAAEzM/nu-dopjfw_0/s1600/IMG_2078.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6xvhj04HRZM/UyupapRL0uI/AAAAAAAAEzM/nu-dopjfw_0/s1600/IMG_2078.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2Urdm2e-Gbw/UyupN9QCBqI/AAAAAAAAEzE/WJfLLGRQ3Pk/s1600/IMG_2076.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2Urdm2e-Gbw/UyupN9QCBqI/AAAAAAAAEzE/WJfLLGRQ3Pk/s1600/IMG_2076.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SjHmwPNLfj4/UyupdWBeyDI/AAAAAAAAEzU/0PotrU4S5i0/s1600/IMG_2083.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SjHmwPNLfj4/UyupdWBeyDI/AAAAAAAAEzU/0PotrU4S5i0/s1600/IMG_2083.JPG" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
Spring Break is here! We've made the most of it, and enjoyed some fabulous weather. During quiet time I walked by the front door and spotted this little artist <i>peinture sur le motif</i> (painting on the ground) !! Love it. I admire all her works of art. For Christmas she asked for art supplies. She wanted the good stuff, pastels, clay, origami paper. She's been experimenting with all of her new materials, and yet, one is never too old for Crayola.thepainterfamilyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03460206307038444602noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6872492476452964343.post-36467991833059428152014-02-28T13:11:00.002-08:002014-02-28T13:16:14.533-08:00For the Love<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Rwdw_VKwRtw/UxDz2s9rqeI/AAAAAAAAEsw/-e7XZEsf3qc/s1600/IMG_1874.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Rwdw_VKwRtw/UxDz2s9rqeI/AAAAAAAAEsw/-e7XZEsf3qc/s1600/IMG_1874.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PxyLrMMJhTc/UxD0AUdpAHI/AAAAAAAAEs4/scGFmXMsSn8/s1600/IMG_1882.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PxyLrMMJhTc/UxD0AUdpAHI/AAAAAAAAEs4/scGFmXMsSn8/s1600/IMG_1882.JPG" height="640" width="512" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yXS5YUpjBJU/UxDzx5-kTJI/AAAAAAAAEss/SxCMDaZzWLQ/s1600/IMG_1859.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yXS5YUpjBJU/UxDzx5-kTJI/AAAAAAAAEss/SxCMDaZzWLQ/s1600/IMG_1859.JPG" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_QsyX77yDoc/UxDzw5mO9MI/AAAAAAAAEsk/nbzLJzEEaH0/s1600/IMG_1866.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_QsyX77yDoc/UxDzw5mO9MI/AAAAAAAAEsk/nbzLJzEEaH0/s1600/IMG_1866.JPG" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
You really can't tell from the top photos, but there were rows and rows of spectators, and I was actually at the back. Only 2 seconds on that podium, and she spotted me with her huge grin. I really can't even describe how that makes my mother heart feel. That in this room full of people her eyes were searching, searching, until they found mine, so that together, we could celebrate her success. I know this makes me a bad gymnastics mom, but the following is the memory I will take with me from her very first season of competition: It was her first meet. Rebound. Just before Christmas, and I think, as the coaches explained it to me, the purpose was to get out all the nerves before some of the bigger meets began. We had checked her out of school early, spent the afternoon removing nail polish, and slicking her hair back. She was dressed up in her competition leotard and warm ups as we entered the gym. She spotted her team and with giggles and jumps headed over. I watched her as she jogged away, her team backpack literally stretching from her neck to the back of her knees. Soon enough it was time for open stretch. The girls from all the gyms began to run in a big circle around the floor. Most had done this before, old hat. But Lily was literally giggling the whole time. Eyes wide and sparkling, and each time she passed by us she would insert a jump and frantic waving our direction. I couldn't take my eyes off her. She was perfection, she was adorable.</div>
thepainterfamilyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03460206307038444602noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6872492476452964343.post-19811413092520067222014-01-23T13:44:00.000-08:002014-01-23T13:44:12.102-08:00These kids...always teaching me :)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8jyECUgkP0U/UuGD1_-FYLI/AAAAAAAAEp0/0FRTlXJmRsA/s1600/IMG_1766.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8jyECUgkP0U/UuGD1_-FYLI/AAAAAAAAEp0/0FRTlXJmRsA/s1600/IMG_1766.JPG" height="640" width="512" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9-T5QvKHMms/UuGD1Y5DR_I/AAAAAAAAEpw/6ZmMsSvkOFI/s1600/IMG_1776.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9-T5QvKHMms/UuGD1Y5DR_I/AAAAAAAAEpw/6ZmMsSvkOFI/s1600/IMG_1776.JPG" height="640" width="512" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
One morning, a couple weeks ago, Roman spent over 2 hours putting various puzzles together. There was Lightening McQueen, Dora, Peanuts...and on and on. Every time he started a new one, I became more and more impressed by his patience and focus. And every time he finished another one, I could see his confidence building. "Puzzle master extraordinaire!!" I would say as I passed his diligent work. He smiled big, and I was reminded of the pattern that hard work plus patience, often equals ability and self assurance.</div>
<br />thepainterfamilyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03460206307038444602noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6872492476452964343.post-48874923778379834782014-01-10T12:02:00.000-08:002014-01-10T12:02:53.584-08:00My Little Violet<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BaxnQ09QPKk/UtBLp4EzJrI/AAAAAAAAEpM/3eUT4T0Udlc/s1600/IMG_1786.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BaxnQ09QPKk/UtBLp4EzJrI/AAAAAAAAEpM/3eUT4T0Udlc/s1600/IMG_1786.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rlEbxr13Prs/UtBMEofdTgI/AAAAAAAAEpY/GbmY6aiCN6Y/s1600/IMG_1817.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rlEbxr13Prs/UtBMEofdTgI/AAAAAAAAEpY/GbmY6aiCN6Y/s1600/IMG_1817.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
It's wild how quickly she grows. We only keep the same routine for just a few weeks before she's moving on, changing, and entering the next stage. Right now she wakes up from her morning nap just after Poppy and Roman lay down for a little quiet time. Truthfully, I love the days when there is overlap, and I get a few moments (!!) to myself...but also, I love hearing her stir. Violet makes little noises and finally I can't stand it any longer. GOT.TO.GO.SEE.THE.CHUBBBY.CHEEKED.BABY! Some days we spend an hour or so in her room. Nursing. Poopy blow-outs (hey, its real life). Drooling on toys (her). Reading magazines (me). It's amazingly peaceful, and excellent at decreasing my stress. Silent house, winter outside the window, and I'm hanging out with a cute cuddly baby.thepainterfamilyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03460206307038444602noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6872492476452964343.post-45528891084077247132013-12-29T21:31:00.000-08:002013-12-29T21:31:28.964-08:00Christmas Cuties<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-E-_90hdfubA/UsECMFnq8pI/AAAAAAAAEoI/L-RVx8XKI8E/s1600/IMG_1679.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-E-_90hdfubA/UsECMFnq8pI/AAAAAAAAEoI/L-RVx8XKI8E/s640/IMG_1679.JPG" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mA4eC8L3ukQ/UsECayZRINI/AAAAAAAAEoY/l5m8wV3ZEAA/s1600/IMG_1682.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mA4eC8L3ukQ/UsECayZRINI/AAAAAAAAEoY/l5m8wV3ZEAA/s640/IMG_1682.JPG" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4JOB9Gc0B_E/UsECW0sgXDI/AAAAAAAAEoQ/vStJiQV6wTI/s1600/IMG_1691.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4JOB9Gc0B_E/UsECW0sgXDI/AAAAAAAAEoQ/vStJiQV6wTI/s640/IMG_1691.JPG" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-X9xgNe38oTY/UsECtjfSQjI/AAAAAAAAEog/n3mtHp42FY0/s1600/IMG_1714.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-X9xgNe38oTY/UsECtjfSQjI/AAAAAAAAEog/n3mtHp42FY0/s640/IMG_1714.JPG" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7gfnTzQlX-o/UsECv1OvKUI/AAAAAAAAEoo/M2jszSPOh3o/s1600/IMG_1720.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7gfnTzQlX-o/UsECv1OvKUI/AAAAAAAAEoo/M2jszSPOh3o/s640/IMG_1720.JPG" width="426" /></a></div>
Ohhhhh these girls....the siren call of matchy-matchy is soooooooo hard to resist.<br />
Trust me, I did NOT think that this was my "thing".<br />
And yet, here we are.<br />
<br />
Alternate titles for this post as follows:<br />
"Hurry before they stain them with candy canes again"<br />
"The full range of Poppy"<br />
"Lily smiled like a champ through 54 photographs"<br />
"Up next...Easter Dresses!!!"thepainterfamilyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03460206307038444602noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6872492476452964343.post-84598967497959753482013-12-29T21:07:00.000-08:002013-12-29T21:07:22.479-08:00Christmas Morning<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Uz_W8AYp1CQ/UsD8Tc-FB_I/AAAAAAAAEn4/QnHmPXat2xI/s1600/IMG_1632.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Uz_W8AYp1CQ/UsD8Tc-FB_I/AAAAAAAAEn4/QnHmPXat2xI/s640/IMG_1632.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
This year, I walked around all Christmas Eve and Christmas Day with a heart full of gratitude.<br />
For my Savior Jesus Christ,<br />
For my testimony of His love for us and His great plan,<br />
For my eternal companion, whom I love AND really like,<br />
For my adorable children and this particular season of life,<br />
For our health and our home and many many more blessings.<br />
I kept thinking about how swiftly my lot in life could change,<br />
but that what I treasure most about my life... (my family)...<br />
is a blessing and gift that I can keep forever.<br />
I can't fathom anything more precious than that knowledge.thepainterfamilyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03460206307038444602noreply@blogger.com2