McCzoo Times

Feb 26th Dinner

2012-02-11T16:06:00.003-07:00

Family Dinner this month is at Jeremy and Tammy's house. Dinner will be between 5:30 and 6.
We will be having sweet pork burritos/salad/nachos (whatever you want to make with it!)So here is the sign up:)

Sweet Pork: Tammy
Rice: Tammy
Beans: Tammy
Tortillas: Grandma and Grandpa
Tortilla Chips: Ryan
Romaine Lettuce: Ryan
Shredded Cheese:
Diced Tomatoes:
Diced Onions:
Dessert:
Dessert:Kara and Jeremy

Grandkids

2012-01-15T16:13:00.000-07:00

Please let us know when things are happening in our grandkids lives so we can support them. This includes things that are important to them, like primary programs. We want to be there for them when we can.

Love,
Grandma and Grandpa

Family Dinner

2012-01-15T16:03:00.006-07:00

Its time for our next dinner. Here is the sign up list:

Ham: Grandma and Grandpa
Potatoes:
Veg:
Veg: Ryan
Salad:Sarah
Rolls:Sarah
Dessert: Jeremy, Kara, Curtis, and Addi
Ice:

Family Dinners

2012-01-04T15:06:00.001-07:00

Once a month we have a family dinner, usually on the 4th Sunday. Each month someone different is in charge. Here is a list of those in charge for the first five months of the new year. If you have any questions just call me.

   January 22--Michael and Valerie
   February 26--Samuel and Chelsie (At Jeremy and Tammy's...obviously depending on weather)
   March 25--Jeremy and Kara
   April 22--Ryan and Suzie
   May 28, Monday Memorial Day--Sarah and Chance
Love,
Grandma

Christmas Pictures

2011-12-26T10:25:00.000-07:00

Here are some pictures of the grandchildren from various events we had for Christmas at our home and at Sam and Chelsie's. Enjoy.

. Allie enjoyed some Pizza before our family Christmas party.

Shaylie loves post it notes.

The Christmas village was a big hit. Tornado coming through.

Allie loves to pose.

Addison loves blowing bubbles.

Curtis is all boy and loves typical boy stuff like building blocks

Surprised look from Ian

Eryn and Brooke love to pose too.

Sawyer before our Christmas Eve breakfast with Tammy
and Jeremy.

Allie and Shaylie help make donuts and cookies on Christmas
Eve at their place.

Emma on Christmas day after dinner at our home.

Christmas Dinner Dec. 18th

2011-12-07T08:28:00.003-07:00

We will be having our family Christmas dinner at about 5:30ish to 6ish. If it is a problem let me know.
Everyone will need to bring some kind of Christmas treat. It can be anything you want from homemade candy to cookies to cupcakes. Anything you want.

Love,
Grandma

Turkey Bowl Pictures

2011-12-04T11:18:00.000-07:00

Val here. Yep, it's time for pictures of the football game and a few quick descriptions of the fun we were having.

Everyone getting ready for the game to start.

He missed the ball, but look how high off the ground James got!

Sawyer roaming around supervising.

Did you expect serious from Ryan?

Mike let each of the girls have a turn throwing the ball around.

Kids are always fun with the football game. Each year there are more and more of them to try not to run into and they bring their own drama with them.

Brooke took the ball from Curtis...

then ran away...

he tried to chase her down, but then gave up.

Sam's like, "Seriously Sawyer, can you stop coming out here to give me pointers?" Ha ha!

Sam's big play of the day.

He's running...

Sarah couldn't catch him...

Chance didn't even run after him, just stood there and let Sam run into him.

Playing the in dirt was far more entertaining for Brooke.

Then Shaylie joined.

The Curtis came and the dirt throwing really got underway! At least they were having fun. : )

"So... We're done right? 'Cause Chance is dead."

Happy Thanksgiving everyone!

Thanksgiving Dinner

2011-11-22T16:17:00.000-07:00

Dinner will be at 5:00.

Turkey Bowl

2011-11-20T17:43:00.002-07:00

Reminder that the turkey bowl will be at 1:30pm Thanksgiving Day!

Thanksgiving (the forgotten holiday)

2011-11-11T13:38:00.009-07:00

I know that the world is beginning to look a lot like Christmas. However, the McCorristin family will celebrate Thanksgiving. Below is the sign up sheet for Dinner:

Turkey: Grandma and Grandpa
homemade stuffing: Grandma and Grandpa
boxed stuffing commerical type: Sam and Chels
Mashed potatoes: Grandma and Grandpa
Yams: Tammy & Jeremy
Vegetables: Ryan & Suzie (Green Bean Casserole)
Vegetables: Kara and Jeremy
Rolls: Mike & Val
Cranberry sauce: Ryan and Suzie
Pie: Kara and Jeremy
Pie: Sam and Chels
Pie: Mike & Val- Cherry Pie
creamed pies: grandma and grandpa

If you can please sign up for more than one item.

Love
Grandma

Sawyers Hair Cut!

2011-11-11T08:22:00.001-07:00

This post is really for mom so she can see Sawyer's new hair due. I was so sad to see his hair go but I had to keep reminding myself that he is a boy, so he doesn't need long hair:) He looks so much older but it's starting to grow on me!

Before:

After:

Christmas drawing

2011-10-31T16:17:00.000-06:00

Just so everyone can remember, here are the results of the drawing:

Mom And Dad---------------Ryan and Suzie
Michael and Valerie--------Samuel and Chelsie
Samuel and Chelsie---------Joshua
Jeremy and Kara------------Mom and Dad
Chance and Sarah-----------Jeremy and Kara
Ryan and Suzie--------------Chance and Sarah
Jeremy and Tammy----------James
Joshua------------------------Michael and Valerie
James-------------------------Jeremy and Tammy

Grandkids:
Allie---------Ian
Shaylie------Sawyer
Eryn---------Emma
Brooke------Shaylie
Ian-----------Allie
Curtis--------Eryn
Emma--------Curtis
Sawyer------Addison
Addison-----Brooke

TIME FOR DINNER

2011-10-21T09:27:00.000-06:00

Ryan and Suzie will be having Stake Conference on the 30th. Therefore dinner will be at 5-5:30ish. Hope you all can make it.

Family Dinner

2011-10-18T18:25:00.000-06:00

Our family dinner for Oct. will be on the 30th. Ryan and Suzie's church schuduel has changed. They are now meeting from 3-6. Therefore we will be eating about 6:15. They are coming over right after church. I hope everyone will be there. We will be drawing names for Christmas then too.

Grandpa will not be at the dinner. He will be in Florida helping Grandma McGinley celebrate her 80th Birthday.

Love

Grandma

Ian's Blessing

2011-09-19T08:28:00.006-06:00

This Sunday is the big day! We're going to be blessing Ian in our Sacrament meeting which starts at 12:30. It is the same building that the baby shower was at, on the corner of 400 N and 800 E. I'm pretty sure everyone knows how to get there, but if you have questions you can always call. We're only planning on staying for Sacrament meeting and then leaving to go to the North Park for taco salads. (North Park is the one you pass on the freeway exit into Spanish Fork over near the Maceys grocery store.)

We are planning on cooking up lost of ground beef and doing some pulled pork with salsa for the meats. (Thank you crock pots!) I don't expect everything on this list to be signed up for, so whatever is left we can get. Thanks for all your help and for coming to be with Ian on his special day!

Food Items
shredded cheese- a LOT of it.-Ryan and Suzie
lettuce- a LOT of that too!-Jeremy & Kara
salsa-Tammy
ranch- Tammy
tomatoes-Jeremy & Kara
onions-Jeremy & Kara
rice- VAL
chips- VAL
tortilla strips (the crunchy kind)
cilantro- VAL
drinks-Ryan and Suzie we'll bring the drink dispenser too :)

Non-Food Items
plates-Grandma and Grandpa
table cloths?

Thanks- Mike, Val, Eryn, Brooke, and IAN!!!!!!

Labor Day BBQ

2011-08-29T17:04:00.003-06:00

This year the final BBQ of the year will be at Sarah and Chance's. It will be at 5:00. You can come early during the day so the kids can play at the park.

Here is the sign up list:

Hamburgers and Buns: Sarah and Chance
Hot dogs and Buns: Mike & Valerie
Relish Tray(lettuce, tomatoes, onions, ect): Sarah and Grandma
Potato Salad: Grandma and Grandpa
Cole Slaw: Grandma and Grandpa
Fruit: Grandma
Chips: Ryan and Suzie
Drinks and Ice: Ryan and Suzie
Dessert: Samuel and Chelsie

Happy Birthday Grandma

2011-08-04T14:00:00.000-06:00

Eryn wanted to show up at your house this morning with flowers, balloons, and a cake. We had to settle for calling and singing. However, I figured we'd "send you some flowers" on here. They'll last longer and they're red. (Yes, trying for all of the suck up points I can get these days...)

Happy Birthday from ALL of us to a Mom, Mother-In-Law, and Grandma who tries so hard to raise us better than we're turning out!

-VAL (surprised?)

24th Dinner

2011-07-18T08:09:00.000-06:00

Because Sarah has to work Dinner on the 24th will be at 4:00. I hope this does not cause any problems.

In Sept we will not have a family dinner, we will still have a labor day bbq.
Love,
MOM

Family Dinner

2011-07-09T13:57:00.007-06:00

Here is the schedule for the next few months:
July 24--Mom and Dad's
Aug.--No dinner
Sept.-- No dinner
Oct. 23--Michael and Valerie in charge
Nov. 24th--Thanksgiving Mom and Dad in charge.

For July 24th:
Roast-Mom and Dad
Potatoes- Sarah and Chance
Vegetable-
Salad-Jeremy and Kara (unless something comes up)
Rolls- Tammy
Dessert- Sam and Chels

Joshua continues...

2011-06-08T07:24:00.002-06:00

This before graduation

These were after graduation:

Joshua graduated from West Lake High School.

We knew you could do it. We Love You, Joshua

Sawyer's Birthday!

2011-06-07T20:04:00.000-06:00

I just wanted to stick up a couple of pictures really fast from Sawyer's 1st Birthday party!

-VAL (Tammy, there are many more to come. My brain is fried right now and I'm in wedding mode.)

James versus Jimmer

2011-06-07T19:37:00.000-06:00

I believe James told some of the family about his experience on Saturday June 4th at the Jackson and Jimmer basketball camp. Not sure if anyone believed his story about his one on one experience with Jimmer. Well here are the pictures to prove that he really did drive past him for the layup. Chris Miles got a kick out of it. Guess the critics are right about his defensive skills being suspect. Ha Ha. Needless to say probably an experience that James will remember the rest of his life.

June 2011 Family Dinner

2011-06-06T17:20:00.004-06:00

Hey Peeps! Here are the details for the family dinner this month. It is going to be June 26th at 6:00. This month is Pajama Party Time! It will be held at the parents house again. It is also going to be a breakfast theme for the food. Here is the sign up sheet:

Pancakes: Ryan and Suzie
Orange Juice: Ryan and Suzie
Eggs: Scrambled-Mom and Dad
Bacon/Sausage:
Hashbrowns/Potatoes: Eryn and Brooke
Toast/Biscuits/Bread:
Fruit:
Desert: Kara and Jeremy

This is just list that I came up with. If you want to venture out and do something different with one of these items, be like Nike, JUST DO IT! lol.

Ill be in my PJ's, here is a glimpse of it:

Joshua

2011-05-31T10:30:00.002-06:00

As Graduation from West Lake High School approaches, Life for Joshua is becoming exciting!!(?).

First on May 18h, he cut his finger with scissors, Sorry no pictures To insta care we went. 2 stitches and a tetanus shot later, he survived. (he didn't think he would when he heard the word shot!)

Then on Sunday the 22nd,

Joshua graduated from seminary.

We all knew he could do it.

Way to go Joshua

Then if that wasn't enough excitement

On Wed. the 25th

it was off to the Oral Surgeon

then it was good-bye wisdom teeth:

(sorry it is blurry but you get the idea)

Once again Joshua didn't think he would survive,

But he did! YEAH!!

The Bishop then asked Joshua if they could auction off the right to cut his hair.

It would be part of the fund raiser for Scout Camp.

It would take place at the Memorial Day Breakfast.

Before the Breakfast:

As the shirt says

It was "A Day to Remember"

The Bishop starting the auction.

after a few bids ($200 was most) someone said I will pay $5 for a clip.

So all the bids were combined and everyone had a turn

After $585 was raised.
The end results:

What a good sport!!

WE LOVE YOU JOSHUA

to be continues....

Memorial Day

2011-05-31T08:58:00.000-06:00

As the national anthem says:

"does that star spangled banner yet wave over

The land of Free and the home of the Brave."

Freedom a privilege that we enjoy each day,

Most often taken for granted.

Memorial Day is a day to remember those who paid the price for our Freedom.

To Remember those who sacrificed all for our country and our Freedom.

Dad and James attended a Memorial Day service at Camp Williams.

Governor Herbert,

Speaker of the Utah House Rebecca Lockhart and Eagle Mountain Mayor Heather Jackson

were there to remember.

One of Dad's favorite at the ceremony was the bagpipers playing

Amazing Grace.

Let us not forget those who have paid the price of Freedom.

Memorial Day get together.

2011-05-25T15:12:00.006-06:00

Will be at Sarah and Chance's at 2:00.

sign up:

Hamburgers and Buns-Sarah and Chance
Hot Dogs and Buns--Mike and Val
Pasta Salad--Jeremy and Kara
Potato Salad--Mom and Dad
Cole Slaw--Mom and Dad
Relish Tray--Mom and Dad
Chips--Jeremy and Tammy
Fruit--Jeremy and Kara
Drinks--Ryan and Suzie
Dessert--Jeremy and Tammy

Flagstaff Trip

2011-05-18T10:08:00.001-06:00

On our trip we found Southern Utah to be very beautiful.

Northern Arizona was not much to look at. It was all black and white.

After a trip to Sears, and Kolhs, (Since Dad was so worried about me forgetting something, he forget his dress shirts.) It was off to a nice dinner for the graduates.

Curtis thought that every one was there for him. He enjoyed the evening.

Next it was the big day.

Below after graduation

Dr. Jeremy Christopher McCorristin

After graduation we went to the canyon. We found it was very beautiful between Flagstaff and Sedonia.

We found a place where we could look at the canyon. There was a poster with different

animals on it. So I was looking over the wall looking for critters. I found a Raven, a tiny little lizard and a

coral snake.

We enjoyed spending time with Jeremy, Kara, and Curtis. We decided that Arizona is a nice place to visit, but we are glad to be living in Utah.

Easter Pictures!

2011-04-25T11:53:00.000-06:00

I was considering saving these until Mother's Day just to torture Grandma, but I decided to give in. Mostly because your little group of cousins is so stinkin' cute!

Emma being extra pretty!

Sawyer had a great nap and was super happy, laughing, and just going crazy!

Shaylie showing off her big pouty lips!

Allie was just like, "Yeah, we've done this before. Here. Done?" Ha ha!

Eryn actually became jealous that I was taking pictures of other people and requested that I take pictures of her! I never thought that I'd see the day...

Brooke had no nap before church and just feel asleep when we arrived at the Grandparents' house. She wanted nothing to do with Mommy or the camera.

Surprisingly, there were other family members at our dinner too! There are only pictures of the dressed up little ones. The rest of us avoided the camera and that was perfectly acceptable. I'm still craving more of those cheesy potatoes that Tammy and Jeremy made. : )

Easter is a holiday that comes and goes quickly once the candy is gone and the bunny ears go away until next year. It is important to remember the real reason for the season and all that Christ has given us everyday. Without Him, we would be lost forever and because of Him we can have everlasting life and an eternal family. May we all live up to deserve the great sacrifice that He has given us by living the best that we possibly can.

-VAL (Seriously, like there was any doubt?)

Easter Request

2011-04-15T16:59:00.000-06:00

Grandma is looking to get some more pictures of the grand kids and since it's Easter, I'd love to take a few with them in their Easter Sunday outfits (if at all possible)! I'll make it fast and will try to get another with them all together and a few nice ones with them separated too. Fingers crossed for good weather to just go outside in the grass!

Thanks,
VAL

Easter Dinner.

2011-04-05T17:05:00.007-06:00

Since we are in charge it will be at our house....J/K:) We have no room for everyone, haha!
Ok so there is no confusion the dinner will be:
At Mom and Dads
5:30 pm

It's Easter so we are going to have (everyone needs to sign up for something if you are going to be there. If you aren't going to be there leave a comment so we know):
Ham: Mom and Dad
Cheesy Potatoes: Tammy and Jeremy (We will take care of something for Ryan)
Vegetable: Chance and Sarah
Rolls: Mike & Val
Salad: Ryan and Suzie
Dessert: Sam and Chels

I'm going to put together a little activity for the kids so if some of you can bring some crayons and things that would be great...I don't really have a supply of that stuff yet! See you then!

Tammy

Family Dinner

2011-03-28T14:13:00.002-06:00

Upcoming Schedule for Family Dinner:

April 24th--Tammy and Jeremy in charge--Dad & Mom's house
May 30--Memorial Day--Sarah and Chance--their house
June 26--Ryan and Suzie --Dad & Mom's house
July 4--Barbeque at Dad & Mom's house-they are in charge
July 24th--Michael and Valerie in charge--Dad and Mom's
Love,
MOM

March Madness is over

2011-03-28T13:56:00.000-06:00

   And the WINNER is:
          ****Chelsie****
1. Chelsie--Pitt--59

2. Kara--Kansas--57

3. Joshua--Kansas--53

4. James--San Diego St--51
     Kenzie--Pitt--51
   Tammy--Ohio St.--51

5. Ryan--Notre Dame--50

6. Valerie--Notre Dame--49
     Samuel--Duke--49
     Suzie--Pitt--49

7. Brooke--BYU--48
     Chance--BYU--48
Michael--Kansas--48

8. Sarah--BYU--46
   Dad--Kansas--46

9. Jeremy--Ohio St.--45
     Jeremy McKay--Ohio St.--45

10. Allie/Shaylie--BYU--37

11. Eryn--Michigan St.--34

12. Mom--BYU--31

The only one who can get any points is Mom. I could get 5 points if Kentucky wins. I would be in 11 place and Eryn would move down so we are ending now.

Congradutations   Chelsie
Thank you everyone who participated.
Love, Mom

Dinner time!

2011-03-24T13:48:00.000-06:00

So I was thinking we would have our family dinner at 5 pm on Sunday. Hope that is okay. Everyone bring your food and be prepared to have a good time! See you there!
Sarah :)

March Madness

2011-03-21T15:37:00.000-06:00

Here we go:

1 Chelsie--Pitt--47

2. Kara---Kansas--45
     Sarah--BYU--45
     Chance--BYU--45
   Jeremy McKay--Ohio St--45
   James--San Diego St---45

3. Samuel--Duke--43
   Suzie--Pitt---43

4. Brooke--BYU--42
   Kenzie--Pitt--42

5. Ryan--Notre Dame--41
   Tammy-Ohio St---41
     Joshua--Kansas---41

6. Valerie--Notre Dame--40
     Dad--Kansas---40

7. Michael--Kansas--38

8. Jeremy--Ohio St--36

9. Allie/Shaylie--BYU--34

10. Eryn--Michigan St--31

11. Mom--BYU--23

Mike's Birthday

2011-03-07T10:37:00.002-07:00

Happy Birthday to Michael! He's made it to 32. Yes, the 2 is for the 32 that he is now. Even though his Mommy could only find 4 candles for his birthday and his wife can't find 32 candles either. I guess you're just getting too old for us slow women to keep up with you! Ha ha. LOVE you Mike.

-VAL

March Mania!

2011-03-06T23:31:00.000-07:00

So for March we thought we could switch things up a little and do an international night. We have a ton of different places represented in the family; Australia, Germany, Tennessee, France, Dominican Republic, Guatemala, and California. Here is how it is going to work... everyone bring something from their missions or spouses mission (or just your favorite international dish). We are not asking for specific main dishes and sides, just bring something that you ate all the time and share it with the rest of us who have never been to these parts of the world. Don't worry if you are representing an American state because that either means that there will definitely be something that everyone will like or you can pick a country and experiment. Jeremy and Kara are going to take care of desert, so everyone else bring a main or side, and make sure you make enough for everyone. We hope that everyone will get into this, and we can have a fun international night.
PS: It is at the Rasmussen's, so I guess details about time and such would need to come from them.

The Votes are in

2011-02-28T16:05:00.001-07:00

And the winner is PAPER 11to5. I need your brackets before the tip off on Tues. March 15th.
You can call it in, email it, or go regular mail. If you mail it, you need to have it post marked on the 14th. The winner will again get an extra large candy bar. Good Luck to all.

Love,
MOM/Grandma

5K in April

2011-02-22T17:47:00.000-07:00

I talked to most of you when we got together last time, but I wanted to remind everyone that I will be running a 5K on April 30th at Thanksgiving Point. Anyone who would like to run is welcome to join me. If you sign up for it before March 1st, it is only $25. Here is the link to register for the run: http://www.active.com/running/lehi-ut/thanksgiving-point-half-marathon-5k-and-kids-fun-run-2011
If you feel courageous, you can sign up for the half marathon.
Jeremy

Happy Birthday Ryan!

2011-02-21T08:57:00.002-07:00

Sorry it's a couple days late! Hope you had a great day!

2011-02-14T09:55:00.000-07:00

Family Get Togethers

2011-01-31T12:20:00.000-07:00

We have run into to some problems for next month. We wont be able to have our get together in Feb.
Here is the schedule:
Feb-canceled
March 27th--Sarah and Chance's house--Jeremy and Kara in charge.--possible missionary theme
April 24th--Grandpa and Grandma's house--Ryan and Suzie in charge
May 30th--Memorial Day--Sarah and Chance's house--Sarah and Chance in charge-1st Barbeque of the year
June 26th--Grandma and Grandpa's house--Tammy and Jeremy in Charge

Love,
Grandma

Dinner

2011-01-17T23:23:00.005-07:00

We are going to be having the monthly get together on Sunday Jan 30. It is our turn so here is the sign up list:

Ham: Parents
Potatoes:
Rolls: Chance and Sarah
Vegetable: Ryan and Suzie
Salad: Sam and Chels
Salad: Jeremy and Tammy
Dessert:JEREMY & KARA

Hopefully we can have everyone healthy by then! Keep your fingers crossed!

Chels

I can see the blogs.

2011-01-11T16:58:00.000-07:00

I just want everyone to know that Grandma/mom is back in business. For sometime I have been losing the ability to view blogs. It finally came down to where I could only see Samuel and Chelsie's. Now thanks to Ryan I can view all the blogs, even Sarah and Chance's. I can not watch videos but I can at least see the blogs. Thank you Ryan.

Love
Mom

Christmas Time Again

2010-12-21T14:55:00.002-07:00

Here are a few of the pictures that I took at our family Christmas dinner and gift exchange on Sunday.

I had to crop together a picture where the kids are all looking and are mostly happy, but we got it! A picture with all of the grand kids in it and no one claims to be pregnant so hopefully this will be "current" for awhile!

The ever popular with the kids (annoying as heck to everyone else) singing Christmas tree was in all its glory.

Thank you Suzie for making a cake!

Plus, Tammy's Jell-o experiment was really pretty!

If you enlarge this you can see ME in the gold bulb! : )

Who doesn't love macaroni art?

Grandma doesn't like Mr. T. much, but the grand kids sure love him!

The evil smile is a good indicator that she's the happiest kid in the world right now!

Grandma had to help Brooke a little.

Brooke didn't even care that her little car slash bike didn't have wheels on it yet she was going to ride it!

Another years passed with another crazy house full of family. This year we all seemed to survive and come out friends. Fingers crossed for next year! Muhahahahaha... Christmas so far has been really great and will only get better. Andrew gets to call home on Christmas Day and check in with the family. He was very missed at our family Christmas dinner.

-VAL

Toffee

2010-12-20T14:14:00.002-07:00

http://www.bhg.com/recipe/candy/toffee-butter-crunch/

For those who asked for it here it is! The recipe for the toffee that I brought on Sunday. I used my own cook book to make it and was dreading having to type it all into an e-mail. Thankfully Better Homes and Gardens' website had the exact recipe and even the same picture to go with it so that I was 100% sure that it was the one that I used.

Happy Birthday

2010-12-16T14:15:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday to Chance!

FYI- Don't google search cowboy and birthday images together! Too many shirtless guys in cowboy get ups. My eyes were burning, so I went with the first family approved cowboy! Ha ha.

E-mail Checking

2010-12-16T13:49:00.000-07:00

If Grandma tells you to check you e-mail, you probably should. If Grandma tells you to call her, you probably should. If Grandma is making meat loaf for dinner you probably should RUN! : )

New password on the family blog here and I did a quick update for December. Sorry if I forget major stuff. I have a horrible memory for dates and things like that! (And I'm a history major...)

-VAL

2010-11-28T13:55:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday dad! Hope you have a great day. Sorry we couldn't make it down! Love you and thanks for all you do!

Love, Tammy

These are for u mom!

2010-11-24T07:43:00.000-07:00

Here's the pics that Chels took for us over the weekend so you can see since you can't see my blog! They turned out great!

Guess who we ran into?

2010-11-22T13:29:00.000-07:00

Shhhh..

We just so "happened" to run into Andrew this morning at about 7:00am at his apartment. I wonder how that happened?

My Mom lives about 50 miles away from where he is currently serving, so we decided to wake up early this morning and drop off the goodies that some of his family members gave to us to drop off to him.

Here's the video of what actually happened when he opened the door...

Sorry that the video is sideways. But Andrew said, "What are you doing here?" and then he closed the door on us! hahaha He was pretty shocked to see us. He then opened the door up again and was still confused. But we gave him the yummy goodies that people prepared for him, said hi, took a few pictures and let him get back to his "P Day".

Andrew's companion was nice enough to take some pictures of us before we left.

Ryan and I drove an hour and 20 mins. to get there, and an hour back to say hi to him for 5 mins...but it was totally worth it!

Thanksgiving Season

2010-11-14T08:03:00.000-07:00

With this being the Thanksgiving season your Mother and I would like to express thanks for those things we are so grateful for:
1. Our Heavenly Father and his Son Jesus Christ, our Savior and Redeemer. For the Savior's atoning sacrifice for each one of us which makes it possible to return to Our Father in Heaven
2. The gospel of Jesus Christ, our testimony of it, and the blessings that it has provided us throughout our lives.
3. The Holy Scriptures and the spiritual guidance they have provided us.
4. The Prophet Joseph Smith and his role in the restoration of the gospel of Jesus Christ in its fulness including the blessing of temple ordinances.
5. Our eternal family made possible by those temple ordinances.
6. Each one of our children. Thank you for your continued faithfulness and dedication to the Church and living according to its teachings and the testimony that each one of you have. We love you.
7. Our son in laws and daughter in laws. We are grateful to have each one of you as part of our family and love each one of you for what you have done for our sons and daughters. You truly have enriched our lives.
8. Our grandchildren. What a blessing they have been to us. Thank you for sharing them with us.
9. The United States of America and the founding fathers of this nation who gave so much so we could have so much. They were truly dedicated to the proposition that all men are created equal and the have a right to liberty and freedom. We are truly blessed to have been born under such favorable circumstances.

As we reflect on these things we recognize that God has truly blessed us and we have much to be grateful for.

Pictures Please!?!?

2010-11-08T10:14:00.000-07:00

I am in need of as many current pictures of your families, yourselves, and for those that it applies to..... your kids. No it is not another little video but I need them for something else I am working on. If you don't mind emailing me any pictures that you can that would be great. If you need my email... text me. Thanks so much!!!

P.S. Any pictures that have any members of the family or multiple members of the family also!!!!

Chels

HALLOWEEN PARTY

2010-10-26T10:57:00.000-06:00

So on behalf of the Rasmussen family, we wanted to invite you all to our anual Halloween party. It is at Chance's parents house in Spanish Fork this Saturday at 1:00 in the afternoon so everyone can still go trick or treating or whatever that night. Let me know if you are coming so we can have \enough food for all of you. We will be having soup and breadsticks and other yummy cooking by Chance's mom. And please dress up in your Halloween costumes. It will be fun!

Chance and Sarah

October Get Together.

2010-10-23T14:28:00.005-06:00

On the 31st will be having our monthly family get together. As last time, grandpa and I will provide the meat and everyone else needs to bring something for dinner.

Potatoes- Sarah and Chance
Pasta/rice-Kara
Vegtables-Ryan and Suzie
Salad-Jeremy
Rolls-Tammy and Jeremy
Cake(Suzie's and Tammy's Birthday)-Samuel and Chesie
Ice Cream - Eryn and Brooke
Love
Grandma

Chubbs' Soccer Game!

2010-10-13T21:41:00.000-06:00

Chubbs doing his thing on the field.

Sarah and Emma came to watch!

Chubbs' cheering section!

Emma's such a cutie!

Grandpa and Emma!

Grandpa and Emma playing with Sarah.

Good job Chubbs!

Ryan was having fun doing his "monkey" noise for Emma.

She thought it was pretty funny!

So cute!


Ryan and Grandpa were "Hula" dancing because they were talking about a pizza.

Chubbs had his last soccer game of the season and a few of us were able to be there. He did a great job and his team even won! Good job Chubbs!

P.S.-Sorry for the poor quality of the pictures, I don't know why our camera keeps making pictures fuzzy, it's getting annoying. Sorry!

2010-10-04T08:29:00.001-06:00

Happy Birthday to by Big Brother Jeremy! I'm glad you're my brother and hope you have an awesome day! Love ya! -Tammy:)

Food for Sunday

2010-09-21T09:14:00.007-06:00

So, if we're ALL going to be there for dinner on Sunday we are going to need the troops to help! Grandma and Grandpa are going to provide the pot roast and the rest of us need to come up with something to bring. Here's a short list, if you can think of something to add feel free.

Dessert- Mike & Val
Potatoes- Jeremy and Kara
Fruit/Vegetable (They are the same thing, both healthy!)- Ryan amd Suzie (The coolest people ever... P.S. GO UTES!)
Salad- Sarah and Chance (pasta salad)
Rolls- Tammy and Jeremy

Since we are all intelligent bloggers please instead of just leaving a comment just go ahead and fill in behind what you want to bring your name. Thanks!

-VAL

It would also be nice to have volunteers designated to set up and take down/clean up before and afterwards. That way Josh does get yelled at to do everything! Ha ha, but seriously... That was we know that it will be done and that there's not a debate.

Craft Day Sunday

2010-09-20T12:02:00.005-06:00

Just a general idea of what we're making on Sunday. Chelsie is bringing a bunch of blocks that are painted black (thank you for doing the hard part for me!) and I am bringing a bunch of craft paint, mod podge, foam brushes, probably a glue gun (because those are required for craft projects), and some scrapbook paper.

If you want extra embellishments you're on your own. There were soooooooooo many that I gave up trying to make a decision on what might be good to buy. The "JOY" will be in red vinyl letters and the "BOO" in white letters. If you want to bring papers for Halloween and Christmas that would go with those feel free. I do have some just in case, but not a ton to choose from. (Again, craft stores are still way overwhelming for me!!!!!!!)

I'm excited to try to do something like this with our family. It's low cost and should be entertaining. Doing things like this seems to bring the women in my ward together, so why not the family too, right? Anyhow, my fingers are crossed that this will turn out and be enjoyable for all involved.

-VAL

Battle of the Bands!

2010-09-12T22:40:00.013-06:00

On Saturday, we had the opportunity, nay the PRIVILEGE, of listening to Josh's band. I think the name they have now decided on is On My Own or On Our Own. Something along that line. They rocked out the parking lot next to Village Pizza during the battle of the bands.

They totally rocked it! Josh was proof that McCorristin's still can't sing but sure can scream! The music was great and they even sung their own songs they wrote. They started with a cover of a Day to Remember. The second song was a song they wrote, they didn't have a title but it was a great song. They then slowed things down with an acoustic song. They wrote it the day before, which you could tell, but if practiced would be a totally flipping awesome song! They then finished the concert with a cover of a song from Senses Fail.

The coolest part of the battle of the bands is THEY WON!!! They got paid which means... JOSH IS A PROFESSIONAL BASS PLAYER! Just make sure to get his autograph now before he starts charging us for it!

Here are some pictures from the day:

The Band!

Josh Rockin out!

Josh doing his screamo part.

This is them setting up for the acoustic song.

Kara, Curtis, Chubbs and I in the crowd.

Suzie and I had fun watching Josh's band!

Curtis was having fun rockin out to the music!

Pops was really enojying the music, either that or he was still in a bad mood about the 35-14 loss. Still not sure which one...

I was able to get a picture with the star of the show!

Labor Day

2010-08-30T10:47:00.001-06:00

It is time for our annual Labor Day Barbeque in Eagle Mountain. Let me know if you will be able to come. It will be in late afternoon due to the bee's game. Let me know as soon as possible.
Love,
MOM

The Shower!

2010-08-16T08:42:00.004-06:00

I just wanted to thank everyone for throwing Sawyer and I a shower on Saturday! It turned out very nice and it was a lot of fun to be together. The food was yummy too:)

This is a nice pic that Mike took of all the women. It's nice to be all together again.

Love- Tammy

2010-08-04T13:52:00.001-06:00

Just wanted to wish mom and Happy 25th Birthday:) We love you and are grateful for everything you do! Have a great day!

James and Who's next??

2010-07-29T10:53:00.003-06:00

James is home from the hospital. He is slow and tired, but doing fine. He has resticted activities for the 1st week then limited activities for the next 5 weeks. He was excited to find out that meant no mowing the lawn or vaccuming for 6 weeks.
Now the question is who is next. Who will be the victim to the McCorristin curse. Every two months. Ryan was March, Dad was May, now James in July. Who will it be in Sept. I am hoping that it is only for blood McCorristins. Which McCorristin is next?? Or will it be a McKay, or a Rassmussen. Will it be YOU??? Only Time will tell.

Have a nice day,
LOVE,
MOM

I just wanted to share this cute face with everyone:)

2010-07-26T23:16:00.000-06:00

Another Birthday?

2010-07-14T17:32:00.003-06:00

Second birthday this week in the family! Happy birthday to Jeremy McKay! One year older and wiser too, happy birthday to YOU!

(Just an idea for Sawyer's first birthday cake!)

-VAL (Who else is so obsessed with cake to post 2 cake picture posts in a row?)

Happy Birthday Sarah

2010-07-12T10:22:00.002-06:00

Eryn wanted to post a special happy birthday to her Aunt Sarah! She can't seem to stop talking about Baby Emma lately.

Happy Birthday Sarah!

The Vacation That Wasn't

2010-07-12T09:15:00.003-06:00

I'd like to thank all of you for your help with the girls and Mike while I was gone. It definitely wasn't a fun filled getaway like I might have hoped for. Instead it was a lot of hospital trips and time logged in dealing with things and realizing that even though I'm far away from my parents that they need me and love me more than I had thought.

I was glad to return to the same groceries that I had bought the night before I left to make sure there was food while I was gone, so I am certain that most of you fed Mike and the girls. Thank You. I came home to bags of clean clothes that just needed to be put away and I'm pretty sure that Mike didn't wash them. (Different laundry smell!) Thank You. I was welcomed back home by my husband and two well maintained little girls. Nothing had happened to them to cause injury (beyond childhood bumps and bruises) and they were both still alive! Thank You.

It is good to know that when things that are unexpected come up that my family is there to help make sure that things are taken care of even when I'm gone. I guess that this means that I owe all of you... Oh wait, we're related! Ha ha. Just kidding. I am sure that each of you who helped out with things knows that I would do the same for you if the situation was reversed. If you didn't before, you know now! Thanks again to everyone who helped clear my mind of my normal concerns to take on many more for a little while.

-VAL

Sawyers Blessing

2010-07-11T15:42:00.004-06:00

Jeremy and Tammy blessed Sawyer on July 4.

Once again I got to play family photographer...

Enjoy!

Sawyer Delmar-Smith Mackay (Hope I got that right)

Sawyer with his proud parents

Sawyer and Mommy (Tammy)

The two newest additions to the McCorristin Family

Emma Rasmussen born June 12 and Sawyer Mackay born June 3

The proud sisters and mommies with their darling babies

Keep reading for another post!

Family Get Together

2010-07-11T15:07:00.004-06:00

Because of Val's absence I was able to play family photographer for a week. Here are a few pictures from our little family get together.

Aunt Suzie trying to keep the babies away from the bball game.

Grandma and Emma

Mommy (sarah) and Emma

The cake I had made for the babies birthdays (Brooke and Shaylie)

Shaylie already stuck her hands in the cake

Brooke observing

HAPPY BIRTHDAY AMERICA

2010-07-04T08:20:00.002-06:00

Today we celebrate the birth of our nation. However it was July 2, 1776 when the resolution on independence was passed in Continental Congress with the Declaration of Independence stating the reasons for our separation from England. Of that day John Adams stated "The second day of July 1776 will be the most memorable epocha in the history of America. I am apt to believe that it will be celebrated by succeeding generations as the great anniversary festival. It ought to be commemorated as the Day of Deliverance by solemn acts of devotion to God Almighty. It ought to be solemnized with pomp and parade, with shows, games, sports, guns, bells, bonfires, and illuminations from one end of this continent to the other from this time forward forever more."

We now celebrate this occasion on July 4th since tradition holds that the Declaration of Independence was signed by members of that Continental Congress on this date. In reality only the President, John Hancock, and the Secretary of Congress, Charles Thomson, fixed their signatures. The actual signing would not take place until Friday August 2, after a fair copy had been printed.

We owe much to these men, our founding fathers, who knew that they were committing an act of treason by affixing their signature to this document and if caught by the British during the War would be hung. Yet they were willing to make this great sacrifice for the birth of our Nation. "And for the support of this Declaration, with a firm reliance on the protection of divine Providence, we mutually pledge to each other our lives, our fortunes, and our sacred honor."

Great words to live by.

2010-06-28T09:24:00.002-06:00

As most of you already know, We're blessing Sawyer in Jeremy's parents ward this Sunday, July 4th. Their sacrament meeting starts at 2:50 and the address is: 720 Nancy Dr. Ogden, Ut 84403.

Hope to see you all there:)

Love, Tammy

Happy Father's Day!

2010-06-20T09:10:00.002-06:00

Happy Father's Day to all the wonderful fathers in our family! Being a dad is hard work and we appreciate all that you do for us!! Also, let us not forget our Father in Heaven and all the blessings he has given us! Love you all:)

Birthday Time

2010-06-18T09:36:00.003-06:00

We will be celebrating Shaylie and Brooke's Birthday on June 27. We will have dinner. Then cake and ice cream after. It will be at Grandpa and Grandma's house. Dinner will be at 6:oo. Hope to see all of you then.

Love,

Grandma

Shaylie's B-day Party

2010-06-14T23:36:00.002-06:00

I am hoping that you all got your invites to Shaylie's little party! I really just wanted to see how many of you were planning on attending. I am just trying to get a head count! There is no obligation to come! Just needing to see how much cake i need to order.. That's right Val... Cake! :) If you don't mind leaving me a comment on whether you will be attending I would sure appreciate it!!!

Thanks so much!
Chels

Trip to California

2010-06-07T17:30:00.009-06:00

Now my trip to California:

On Memorial Day we went to a parade.

My camera decided that after trying to take a couple of pictures that it would die.It was a very big parade. One thing that i wish I had a picture of was some horses.

They had there hoofs painted. One was pink another was blue with glitter.

After the parade we went to a softball game with ward members.

Tammy played a little wishing it would cause labor.

Tammy decided to just sit out and practice being a Mom.

Thurs. Morning early it was off to the hospital.

Before delivery.

Then Sawyer decided to make his grand entrance:

the Proud Parents

The next ones were taken Fri morning

Ready to go home.

Saturday morning at home

In the carseat saying goodbye to Grandma

Then off to Utah and home.

Enjoyed spending time with Tammy and Jeremy.

Thank you for letting me come

Now home again. Glad to be home.

Love,

MOM

James 6th grade basketball

2010-06-06T09:30:00.009-06:00

I know this is a little late. But here are pictures of James basketball team. They were the Hidden Hallow Hornets. :

the Hornets

the first game was against Pony Express Riders

That's Dad watching in the corner.

A few tricky moves. I taught him not to steal but he was one of the best ball stealers on the team. I think it is because of his size.

The final score:

Riders 28

Hornet 52

Since no other area schools would play them the next and last game was against the their teachers. Both the coach played on the teachers' team. Stealing was almost impossible because at times the hornets couldn't even reach the ball. (one teacher, who also his coach, was 6ft. 4)

They lost but had fun anyway.

James is being guarded by his coach and teacher.

MOM

Farewell Andrew!

2010-06-04T15:05:00.004-06:00

Well Dad wanted to display proof for mom that we actually took Andrew to the MTC and didn't make him just hitch hike his way there, so here it is. Wednesday Andrew left us for two years, even though for the first three months he is only a half hour away, not to mention seconds away from Chance's job site (there is a high probability the two will run into each other at the MTC). The MTC does things much different now, it was a little strange for me. They pull you up to your designated site on the curb, say a quick goodbye, and then another missionary escorts you to the building where I'm sure they do orientation, etc. I guess they are real firm believers now that you need to tear off the band aid quick to cause less pain. Needless to say, Andrew looked excited and nervous all at the same time. We love you Andrew and know you will do great. See you in two years!

Dad and Andrew
I accompanied Andrew to take Mom's place. JK :)

-Sarah :)

God Be With You Till We Meet Again

2010-06-01T12:38:00.005-06:00

Tomorrow I report to the MTC at 1:15. Thus I am gone for 2 WHOLE Years! And well as for parting words I guess I really don't know what to say. All I simply can say is that I am grateful for all the support that I have received through out the years. I know that God has truly blessed me with an INCREDIBLE Family. Thanks to both my Mom and Dad with all the ways that they prepared me in the knowledge of the Gospel. I know that Jesus Christ Lives and that through Him is the Way. He is the Way. He is the only begotten of the Father. He is my Savior and my Redeemer.

In Alma we read, "For it is expedient that an atonement should be made; for according to the great plan of the Eternal God there must be an atonement made, or else all mankind must unavoidably perish; yea, all are hardened; yea, all are fallen and are lost, and must perish except it be through the atonement which it is expedient should be made. For it is expedient that there should be a great and last sacrifice; yea, not a sacrifice of man, neither of beast, neither of any manner of fowl; for it shall not be a human sacrifice; but it must be an infinite and eternal sacrifice."

I know this to be true. I know that Joseph Smith was and is a Prophet of God. I know that that through him he was able to restore Christ's true church on the Earth today. I know that the Book of Mormon is indeed a TRUE Book and is another testament of Jesus Christ. I know that it is to act as a companion to the Bible for it simply restored plain and simple truths that were lost.

Now family, I hope for the Best. It is time for me to sacrifice two years in the service of the Lord. It is my duty as an Elder to go out and preach the Gospel of Jesus Christ. And to bear

solemn testimony that He was, that He Lives, and that He is to come. And once again I would like to thank everyone for everything that ya'll have done on my behalf. Remember to stay strong in the gospel of Jesus Christ and don't give up faith nor hope. Make sure you attend the temple regularly. Read Scriptures and Say your PRAYERS! Vocally and Privately for God does hear our cries. May God Bless in everything that ya'll do. I am off to serve. Faithfully!

Memorial Day is Done

2010-06-01T00:27:00.003-06:00

Another busy family filled fun holiday weekend has come to a close. There are a bunch of pictures to go through still, so this is just a quick post.

Sarah finally gave in and let me take a few pictures of her baby bump. They turned out really nice and I'm sure glad she surrendered! : )

I'll post more later, but I'm very glad to say that it was a great weekend for all of us who were here. (Those not present were missed as always!)

Memorial Day BBQ

2010-05-25T15:49:00.002-06:00

So on Monday we are having our annual Memorial Day BBQ at our place (Chance and Sarah's). We will provide the meat but if everyone could bring something that would be great. We need chips, salads, drinks, and desserts of course. :) The barbeque will be at two since I have to work that night, but you are welcome to come before if you would like, we will play at the park and the boys will probably have a basketball game in the new basketball court at our park. Leave a comment if you are coming and what you will be bringing so I will know.
Thanks!
Sarah :)

It's Official

2010-05-21T09:17:00.003-06:00

http://www.cottonelle.com/

It's official now! The country has voted and Grandma McCorristin is WRONG! The toilet paper should roll over and the paper should come off of the top, not the bottom or underside of the roll. Everyone has their preference, but the MAJORITY is with ME! Muhahahahaha...

-VAL

Doesn't the tp rolling from the bottom drive you crazy?

Andrew's Farewell and Andy's Hello

2010-05-17T09:40:00.004-06:00

Even though Andrew has a couple more weeks before he leaves to the MTC for his mission he gave his farewell talk on Sunday. From Andrew's talk we all learned that he sucked at journal keeping until recently and that he's grown immensely in the gospel and faith in the last couple of years. While in sacrament we also learned that we now need 2 big rows for the family and countless little baggies of fruit snacks and goldfish to keep us in our seats!

Andy Hardy (the unofficial oldest of the McCorristin children) surprised us all by showing up at the temple on Saturday. He is the reason Andrew is named Andrew. Andy has been a good friend to the family forever and was a great addition to a good weekend together.

The Andrew behind the Andrew. (Just for Andrew I figured that I'd go with a random statement that he would have said if given the opportunity!)

Andy had to leave early so we took a few quick pictures with him before he headed to Idaho. This was a normal as they could all look. Trust me I tried to get serious and happy. We just can't be!

Andrew's extra friends came in handy to take a couple pictures of all of us. EVEN ME! Granted I had to crop it down, but still... It was nice to have a picture of all of us. : )

After church was over Grandma and everyone else came home and we had dinner. It was such a nice evening that we all ate outside and enjoyed the cool breeze and the grass. Josh had fun chasing Eryn and Allie with bugs. They found some ants and a beetle and went crazy! The happy and sort of terrified squeals and screams were so funny.

-VAL (Do I really need to sign my posts?)

Happy Mothers Day!

2010-05-09T00:49:00.004-06:00

[Scroll down...there's one more:)]

Happy Mothers Day to all the wonderful mothers in our family! Everyone has set such a great example! What an awesome opportunity we have to be mothers and to raise children!

"There is no one perfect way to be a good mother. Each situation is unique. Each mother has different challenges, different skills and abilities, and certainly different children. The choice is different and unique for each mother and each family. Many are able to be “full-time moms,” at least during the most formative years of their children’s lives, and many others would like to be. Some may have to work part-or full-time; some may work at home; some may divide their lives into periods of home and family and work. What matters is that a mother loves her children deeply and, in keeping with the devotion she has for God and her husband, prioritizes them above all else.

I am impressed by countless mothers who have learned how important it is to focus on the things that can only be done in a particular season of life. If a child lives with parents for 18 or 19 years, that span is only one-fourth of a parent’s life. And the most formative time of all, the early years in a child’s life, represents less than one-tenth of a parent’s normal life. It is crucial to focus on our children for the short time we have them with us and to seek, with the help of the Lord, to teach them all we can before they leave our homes. This eternally important work falls to mothers and fathers as equal partners. I am grateful that today many fathers are more involved in the lives of their children. But I believe that the instincts and the intense nurturing involvement of mothers with their children will always be a major key to their well-being. In the words of the proclamation on the family, “Mothers are primarily responsible for the nurture of their children” - M. Russell Ballard

Happy Mother's Day

2010-05-09T00:44:00.002-06:00

Here's the official happy mother's day post to all of the mothers and future mothers in our family!

Thanks to the grandmas, moms, daughters, sisters, sister-in-laws, nieces, and granddaughters for all that you have done, all that you do now, and all that you will do someday.

Being a woman is a rough job, but somebodies got to do it!

-VAL

Experiencing Symptoms?

2010-05-03T18:47:00.004-06:00

What Are the Symptoms of Appendicitis?

The classic symptoms of appendicitis include:

Dull pain near the navel or the upper abdomen that becomes sharp as it moves to the lower right abdomen. This is usually the first sign.

Loss of appetite

Nausea and/or vomiting soon after abdominal pain begins

Abdominal swelling

Fever of 99° F to 102° F

Inability to pass gas

Almost half the time, other symptoms of appendicitis appear, including:

Dull or sharp pain anywhere in the upper or lower abdomen, back, or rectum

Painful urination

Vomiting that precedes the abdominal pain

Severe cramps

Constipation or diarrhea with gas

Call your doctor if:

You have pain that matches these symptoms. Do not eat, drink, or use any pain remedies, antacids, laxatives, or heating pads, which can cause an inflamed appendix to rupture.

If you have any of the mentioned symptoms, seek medical attention immediately since timely diagnosis and treatment is very important.

With that out of the way... If you are a naturally occurring McCorristin (by birth) and you are experiencing ANY of these symptoms be very cautious. Ryan just had his out and now Grandpa is in the hospital as I'm writing this having his out!

-Val (In case you were wondering!)

ALL HAIL THE UTAH STATE AGGIES!

2010-05-03T11:37:00.005-06:00

Well guess what! This week is finals week for me and I have nearly survived my first year of college. I have enjoyed it greatly and am looking forward for the next chapter of my life to unfold.....THE MISSION! I would like to thank everyone who has helped me in anyway, shape, or fashion. This year was good. As all or most of ya'll know I am no longer doing AFROTC or Engineering but rather I am changing to Math Education and I look forward to becoming a teacher. I found out this semester that I really have a passion for teaching and I really and truly enjoy doing it. Math is fun and I personally enjoy it. Lessons that I've learned from my first year and Josh you may want to write this down but it is not to procrastinate. This semester I had many projects and essays due and they all were due last week. I managed my time well, balancing 18 credits, homework and studying. It is hard Work Josh and it is meant to be that way ;). Also another lesson I learned this year is do not date girls by the name of Rachel. They make good friends but just don't date them. Also another lesson learned is to always do the simple things. Daily Scripture study and prayer help out so much. The Lord truly blesses those that put him first and everything falls into place. Another lesson learned...(thank-you mom for this).......and that is to go to bed at a descent hour and wake up early. It helps out and I found that studying while roommates are still sleeping till 11 makes it very easy to comprehend things.

I hope all is going well for everyone. I Love You ALL! Remember I am going to the Temple on May 15th and ya'll need to be at the Mt. Timpanogous Temple at 1:30 all ready and wearing White. And if ya'll can't make I will most likely want to go a number of times before I leave on my mission and I would truly love to go with any family member that would be willing to take me.

THANKS!

-The Aggie

I thought Val might Like this Picture Because I Sure Do! :D

Dates Escaped Me

2010-05-01T10:30:00.002-06:00

I tried to update the blog with dates and events for the month of May, but all of the numbers are floating around in my head and not coming out correctly!

I'm sorry if I put the wrong dates on your event. Feel free to fix them or add to them if there is more that I missed.

My official disclaimer is that I am suffering from the early stages of motherhood!

-VAL

Our Vacation

2010-04-27T17:26:00.008-06:00

We were able to go on a three day trip to Southern California. On the flight there we met a man that was a former BYU baseball player and former Boston Red Socks catcher. Dad and he talk most of the way there. The first night we were to the Yankees, Angles game. Unfortunetly the Yankees lost. The fans were a good group. We set near a bunch of Yankee fans. So all was well.

Saturday was a trip to the San Diego Zoo.

It was hugh. We didn't get to see everything but we did enjoy what we saw. Dad kept saying we were going to see our relatives. Here are a few pictures of what we saw.

These bears were enjoying the beautiful day. We couldn't asked for better weather.

We loved the monkeys.

This one is grandpa. He acted just like him. He looked in a bag and didn't see anything in there he wanted so he throw it in a pile. Then he set back like he was in charge.

There were so many different kinds of animals.

We went to the bird show. This bird looks big but he only weighs 5 lbs.

The birds were so beautiful.

There were even a couple large averys there. They even had birds that were extinct in the wild.

The monkeys are always fun to watch. They act just like our family.

Here is Ryan.

This is was the most unusual animal we saw. It looks part zebra.

This is a hippo under water.

He was just resting and relaxing. He know how to spend the day.

I don't know why but these flamingos reminded me of my daughter-in-laws.

We also saw a water show. That is a large sea lion in the picture.

We loved the meerkats were our favorites.

They had alot of them, including some babies. They were fun to watch.

Next was a trip to look at the temple.

This was the only side that wasn't surrounded by scaffling. They were repainting and fixing a small leak. It was still very beautiful.

We ate at a lot of different places.

We had fried chicken at Knotts Berry Farm resturant. We ate steak at Claim Jumpers and breakfast at a Dinner called Norm's. But this was Dad's favorite. All they served was fish.

We went up the beaches. This was Huntington Beach. They were having a free concert. They played Jazz music. This group was from Arizonia.

Dad liked watching the surfers.

It reminded him of his teen years. For those who do not know, he had a surf board and did a lot of surfing. What do you expect when you live in Surf City, NJ.

We had a good time, but are glad to be home.

It was a nice place to visit, but we would not want to live there.

Grandma's Camera

2010-04-26T17:24:00.009-06:00

I found these pictures on my camera and I figured out after a few hours

how to get them on the blog. I will post pictures of our vacation tomorrow now that I know how it is done. The first few are of Ryan and Suzie's reception. The rest are other family get togethers

Here I am.

Eryn finding better things to do

The gang is all here.

Tammy's normal stance! (ha)

The only picture of the 3 of us. Mom and her girls.

The princess in her castle.

The happy couple

Valerie practicing her grandma look. Needs more practice.

Grandpa and little Curtis

I hope you enjoyed a trip down memory lane.

Love,

Grandma

Maternity Pics!

2010-04-25T23:26:00.002-06:00

Here's a link if you guys are interested in seeing my pics! Our friend Marie did them and they turned out great:)

http://marieeggen.com/?p=259

Love, Jeremy and Tammy!

2010-04-17T10:47:00.001-06:00

Happy Birthday Val!

Hope you have an awesome birthday and enjoy the cake that's just for you:) We love you!

Deep Dark Secrets!

2010-04-07T23:26:00.001-06:00

So...I just wanted to share this with everyone. We all make fun of Josh becuase of his "woman pants". But there is someone else in the family that has a deep, dark secret in the family and likes to wear woman's shoes. The only problem is that his deep, dark secret was caught on tape and shown to all of Utah. Here is a link to the video for proof:

ksl.com - Men walk a mile in heels to stand up against sexual assault

LOL! Thanks Andrew for standing up for sexual assault! There definitely is too much of that in the world!

Ryan

Birthdays?

2010-04-06T08:26:00.002-06:00

With all of the excitement of March Madness and Easter it seems that we have missed gushing on the blog for our birthdays. So here it is...

Happy Birthday Eryn!

and

Happy Birthday JAMES!

Plus, if any of you are wondering... We do in fact still have some leftover cake. For how long, I'm not sure.

Finals

2010-03-20T16:13:00.013-06:00

Here are the results after the Final round:

15th Allie------32-------BYU

14th Brooke----42------Ohio St

13th Mom-----43-------BYU

12th Andrew--44------Villanova

11th Tammy----45----Kansas

10th Sarah------47----Kentucky
J. McKay-------47----Kentucky

9th Eryn-------50----Kentucky

8th James----52-----Kansas
Jeremy------52-----Kentucky

7th Suzie----55----Kansas

6th Kara----57----Kansas

5th Samuel---62---Kansas

4th Dad-----63----Kansas
Chelsie-----63-----Kansas

3rd Valerie---68---Kansas

2nd Joshua--72----Kansas

And the Winner is-----
Ryan---74---Duke

Congradulations Ryan. You will recieve the a King Size Candy Bar.

Thanks to all who participated.

Love
MOM

Andrew's Endowment

2010-03-19T19:30:00.002-06:00

Andrew will be receiving his temple endowment on Saturday May 15th at the Mount Timpanogos Temple. It will be the 2 p.m. session. Everyone is invited to attend. Those who come need to be dressed and seated by 1:30 p.m. Hope to see you there.

2010-03-16T19:11:00.002-06:00

This year we are doing paper. I must have your entries by tip off of the first game. The entries may be delivered by email, phone call, us mail ( must be postmarked day before first game), or can be personally delivered. I prefer personal hand delivery because I love to see all of you any time I can. The prize is the same as always: One king size candy bar of your choice. Good luck to all.

Love,
MOM

Sarah's Baby Shower

2010-03-16T16:10:00.003-06:00

I'm usually so good at putting the pictures in the right order that I figured I'd change things up a little and confuse you all! Muhahahahahaha... Here are a few of the pictures from Sarah's baby shower this last week.

Allie was showing off her "cute hat" like her Mommy had. Well, it was close. Chelsie's hat didn't have princesses on it.

The power went out when it was time to open presents! It didn't really matter until it started getting dark and then there was a mad scramble to find matches.

No power, but still light outside. Sarah wrote more about her shower on her blog. She had a good number of people show up despite traffic and weather both being terrible! Then when the power went out the party started to wrap up early.

Suzie had to tie balloons with cans to keep them from blowing away. If you look closely the garage light is on. This was from back when we had power!

I made pink lemonade cupcakes, decorated a vase with fruity marshmallows, and even showed off my ability to make an old mug stand look interesting. Who knew?

I fed some of the cauliflower to the horses out back. I think they'd have preferred it with some ranch. Ha ha!

One down and one to go! Our next shower will be post baby and post move to Utah for Tammy and her little boy. We're all ready drumming up ideas and thinking of blue things! Which is surprisingly difficult for some of us with so much pink in our worlds.

-VAL

What will it be?

2010-03-15T07:43:00.001-06:00

Paper or electronic?

That is the question:)

Love, Tammy

Since Word's Out

2010-02-25T08:18:00.006-07:00

Since Andrew's officially opened his mission call I figured that someone needed to make the official blog post and gush about the event. (I'd let him do it himself, but he's busy with school and beaming with excitement. The family blog is probably the last thing on his mind now.)

So this guy,

will be speaking this language,

BUT he will be doing it here!

Yes ladies and gentlemen, Andrew is going to speak Korean in the San Fernando Valley in California. His Mom was floating with excitement all night! Everyone in the family was very excited to have him be able to have the challenge and blessing of learning a language, but were also very glad that this language didn't require a passport. : )

In the troubled world that we live in it is comforting to know that our little Andrew will be worlds away, but only a couple of states over.

-VAL (Seriously, was there any doubt?)

Craft?

2010-02-23T09:17:00.003-07:00

Usually the words craft and Val don't go in the same sentence, but lately for some odd reason I've been interested in making stuff. Go figure, right?

These are 5 by 5 in pictures on a 2 by something (but it's sure not 6) block. I did one of the Detroit Temple for us and one to send to my brother John. (It's a surprise for him and his wife. Hence, why I didn't put this on my blog!) I made one of the Manti Temple for Sarah and Chance. That was supposed to go in the bag for Christmas, but I got a little hung up on my craft projects. Ooops! So, Sarah be warned it's coming!

I have some set ups to make a few different ones. These are squares, but I am looking to make some long skinny ones too. A few of the temple pictures that we have look really awesome that way. There will be more of in the future for sure. Please note that these craft projects include pictures. For the most part, pictures that MIKE has taken with just a couple of exceptions.