Live~ Laugh ~Love

Father and Son's campout!!

2011-05-24T20:29:00.000-07:00

3 sure signs this is a

FATHER and SONS

campout...

Justin and Mitch eating Twix candy bars and drinking pop as they're headed to bed!
Justin wearing his brand NEW shoes.
lastly, click on the photo...see thosefingernails? See what is holding that sandwich?

3 reasons mom is very OK
with this father and son's campout!

flowers and kisses for mom
smiles from ear to ear
stories to last all year

oh...one more,

Girls night at home! The evening consisted of u-swirl yogurt and watching Justin Bieber.

Let's just say, Gracie definitely has

"Bieber Fever"

" Justin can't marry me right, I'm too young ????"

" Some boys are Gross, but some are

oh, soooooo cute."

oh, my.

Heaven help us.

She's 5.

PURE JOY!!

Getting the PERFECT marshmallows!

Love my boys.

Mac couldn't go, but no worries...

bring on the camping this summer!!

(especially the father and son camping!)

;)

Junior Prom!!

2011-05-21T18:06:00.000-07:00

Junior Prom

was a night to remember!

Especially memorable that Mac

shared it with cousins Mitch and Jake

These boys are so close....and all so very

handsome

if I might add!

Beautiful Girls!!

Thanks to Monica, the setting was elegant

and the dinner delicious!

I love the special relationship

these boys have.

Love they are getting the chance

to create such fun memories together.

The Girls in Vegas!

2011-05-13T17:14:00.000-07:00

Soccer in VEGAS!

We don't need much of an excuse to jump at the chance for a girls trip!

I love spending time with this girl!

Mandi has really enjoyed this season and the

sweet girls on the team.

Not to mention...they are playing really well!

(which always adds to the fun.)

The team feels Mandi is the good luck charm

and has officially named her the team "pray-er".

She is now the one who says the team prayer

before each big game!

We spent an afternoon site seeing

and getting a frozen "hot" chocolate at

Serendipity!

Highly recommend.

Delish!

We weren't quite ready to end the fun!

so...

we decided to miss our return flight!

It had nothing to do with getting a little lost

on the way to the airport.

Good times!

Let the games begin!

2011-04-08T10:09:00.000-07:00

Spring Season has begun!

Before the official first kick off this Saturday,

here are pictures of our fall season!

The

Stinging BEES!!!

Don't you love the hair bows on these little soccer diva/bee's!?

After Gracie's first game,

which consisted mainly of taking turns kicking the ball!

(kids from her own team as well as the apposing team)

She asked,

"Mom, what does it mean to,

"just go out there, work hard, and do your best?"

Hmmm....

" I guess it means you try and get the ball

from the other team, keep it away from the other team,

and get it in the other teams net."

My vast soccer knowledge,

seemed to satisfy.

The next game came.

Gracie went to the field with her game face.

She "worked hard and did her best".

Her best happened to be scoring 5 goals.

Wow, who knew?

Especially, after her first game of "take turns"!

( which ironically is what we drill into our kids

until all of a sudden we tell them," have no mercy!")

It looked like an exciting season ahead!

However, after experiencing

working hard and doing her best,

she was over it!

Been there done that!
The focus of the following games-

hair, friends, and snacks!

Sweet, glittered haired girls standing
in the middle of the field
talking,

during the game.

pretty darn cute.
Unsure what to expect for spring season!?

BUT

we do know what this little bee

(who now, as of yesterday's practice,

is a green butterfly)

is capable of!

p.s my favorite picture of the stinging bees season?

Gracie consoling her BFF.

Must of been a tough game.

THE

Blue Leopards!!

Oh, this little guy.

Love watching him.

Love how he wanted to be seen

working oh, so hard!

Justin really enjoyed the practices

MORE then games!

This kid LOVES to play.

This kid really LOVES to have
FUN
And the games,

"were a LOT of work!"

He definitely kept the season FUN for all,

as well as squeezing in the final goal of the season!!

The Hawkeyes

We always knew Mitch liked to play basketball.

However, this was his first time on an official team.

(which I don't think people believed!)

Truthfully, while watching his first game

and seeing him score the first 5 baskets,

I was like, ummm maybe he should share??

( I was sitting by the other kids moms!)

Lou didn't agree and loved every second of it.

In many of the pictures it looks

like he is about to loose the ball

because the ball is so low.

But No!

He keeps total control

and no one steals from him.

Highlight of the season...

Buzzer 3 pointer

Mitch made the shot as the final buzzer was ringing!

And I was turning off the camera.

Ooops!

Every kid deserves a moment like that!

FUN.

(I'm still waiting for mine.)

Part 2...Disney Christmas!

2011-03-23T13:21:00.000-07:00

Buhrley family

Christmas 2010

We will never forget our

Disney Christmas!

I knew Disneyland would be fun,

but I had no idea it would be at the top of our

favorite family vacations!

It truly was the perfect family vacation, for us.

Having older kids that help with the little ones,

makes it really fun for mom and dad!

Especially, when I now have a son

bigger and stronger then I am!
Translation: Lou and Mac were the ones to carry
the dead weight of sleeping toddlers
all the way to the tram at the end of a long day!
I love this stage of my life!
It really was a vacation for me!
However,
I'm not so sure if Lou would say the same!
He must have run the length
of a marathon during our stay!
Each night he would map out our next day's schedule
knowing exactly
when and where to 'run' and get fast passes.
and Run he did!
We hardly waited in line,
at all!!
A dream.

The older kids really wanted it to be fun
for the younger ones,
and truly found joy in their excitement.
This was so rewarding.
There were only 2 rides in the entire park/parks,
that we all couldn't go on together!!
Which meant we spent our days,

together!

Our darling Mickey/Minnie Santa hats
were thoughtfully made by my sweet sis-in-law.

They really are so cute
and made keeping track of each other, a breeze!

We had several people ask us where they could get one!!
"Designs by Amber"
has a good ring to it, don't you think?

When we came home,

we were able to celebrate more of Christmas
with Grandma and pa Buhrley!

Notice Mandi below caught on her cell phone..

headed to her first Stake dance!!

We had to pull her dad back from following her.

Between her dad and older brother,

this girl will be very well watched over.

Mac has already said any boy that talks to her,

will go through him first.

I don't think he was joking.

Amber made

New Years Eve

such a fun night for the kids!

Crafts, countdowns, silly string.

Really fun memories for the cousins.

( Have I mentioned how much we love having family close?)

A wonderful way to end 2010,

and

Welcome in 2011.

December 2010 part one!

2011-03-21T01:09:00.000-07:00

This past December was one

of those times I wish I could freeze

and just replay over and over.

The story actually begins

with the last picture of this post and goes up...

however, condsidering I haven't posted in 2 months,

I'm not going to worry about the mix up.

We will just start at the end.

Well, kind of the end, as this is only part one!

We were greeted in San Diego,

with pouring rain!

So much so, that Sea World had to close because of flooding.

However, a little rain couldn't scare us off!

We headed for a day...
at the Beach and the Zoo!

After a quick run into Target...to purchase

7 umbrellas.

The Zoo was empty, go figure?

We took advantage of the lack of crowds and sang

"Singing in the Rain" while twirling our umbrellas

down the streets of the Zoo.

Really. we did.

We have video to prove it!

Most memorable Zoo day,

ever.

To celebrate

Mandi's 14th birthday,

Lou took the b-day girl along with Mac and Mitch,

to a professional basketball game at the Staples center!!

Yes, my daughter

wanted to celebrate her birthday at a basketball game!

Where did she come from?

This girl is going to make some boy very happy one day.

She is the perfect mix of girly girl and tomboy.

They had a blast!

We truly LOVE,love,love,

this beautiful,smart,fun,talented,determined

14year old.

Happy Birthday

Mandi girl!!

SO...scrolling down to the bottom of the post,

you will find the real reason behind our

Cali Christmas!

It first began in Arizona,

where my niece Joslyn was sealed for eternity

to her now husband, Justin.

This was such a special occasion and we felt blessed to be a part of this sweet day.

I just love these pictures of Justin and Gracie

dancing at Josy's reception!

They will be fun to display at their weddings....

one day!

The morning of the wedding,
Justin came to greet his bride,

dressed in this dashing BLUE tuxedo.

Hilarious.

Time with family,

the perfect way to start our vacation!

....to be continued,

part 2!!

Still time to be Thankful!

2011-01-20T06:12:00.000-08:00

I've somewhat neglected blogging,

and I'm really excited to post about

Christmas..

however, I could NOT forget

Thanksgiving!

For many reasons this Thanksgiving

will always have a special place in my heart.

Perhaps the biggest reason of all is simply

the love that could be felt as

I had all my kiddos together.

With grandparents,uncles,aunts,and cousins

unconditional love was truly felt this Thanksgiving.

I feel such gratitude to a wise and loving

Father in heaven that made

family the center

of his plan of

happiness.

The LONGEST picture in the World!!

The cousins were inspired by Ramona Quimby

and made their own version of

The LONGEST picture in the World!

(as seen above.)

They spent Many busy, creative hours

together on this fun project.

It really is impressive and really is

LONG!

We ended our Thanksgiving weekend

with special visits to both of Lou's grandmother's.

Grandma Atwood is 95 years old and

you would NEVER know it.

She is absolutely amazing.

She has overcome so many obstacles in her life

and is such an inspiration.

I don't think the women of this family age.

It's a little disturbing.

Pretty soon I'll look older then my mother-in-law.

really.

Visiting Grandma Buhrley

was such a tender experience.

Oh, how

we love her.

While in her presence,

you feel of her goodness.

You just want to soak in her sweet spirit.

Truly a Thanksgiving to remember.

"You are...WHAT?"

2011-01-06T19:19:00.000-08:00

I have always felt lucky

to have been blessed with kids

that can entertain themselves.

They are very creative while doing it,

I might add.

Justin had a particularly 'creative' day of play last week.

Mandi and I had just finished saying,

how cute Justin had been playing all afternoon,

when I entered the (just cleaned) kitchen,

to a smell.

a very strong smell.

A smell of cumin, sage, thyme?

And could it possibly be

MORE CUMIN?

What in the world???

My jaw drops.

My eyes and nose,

are in disbelief.

empty spice jars lay as evidence.

me: "Justin, WHAT are you doing?????"

Justin: "I'm a giant, and I'm cooking my dinner.

I'm cooking...army guys."

me: "seriously, an entire bottle of cumin?"

Justin: "Yes! And there is some more in the freezer."

The army men in the freezer were in bags of water...

to freeze?!?

Along with an army helicopter..

a large army helicopter.

Oh, don't get me started on all the unusual things

I've had in my freezer during the last 6 years !

Combine all the mischievous behavior

of all my other children.

Although, it may be a close race...

Justin would still win.

( You really can't include Gracie.

90% of her mischief...is with Justin.)

Ever since Justin started walking,

he has had an agenda.

Play,play,and more play.

When I think back

at all the crazy things this child has done,

in the name of play...

Oh, my!!!

Crazy thing is,

I haven't ever thought of him as trouble!

Never once.

Was I delusional?

No, I really don't think so.

I would take 10 of him.

(maybe just not all at once.)

Maybe it's because his mischief is always tied up

with some great imaginative play that appears to be innocent.

( yes, I'm realizing now, it may not have been all that innocent.)

Maybe it's because of those

big brown eyes and long lashes.

Maybe, yes, just maybe it's because

he always knows the right thing to say

and says it in the sweetest,

tenderest possible way.

Whoever marries this guy,

is a very lucky girl.

Example:

Keep in mind this example,

is from the same week,

if not the same hour,

as the cumin army men.

me: "Hey, Mandi. Can you come here?"

Mandi walks into the kitchen.

Justin comes in a few seconds behind her.

Justin: As he takes Mandi's hand,

"Did mom just say 'hey' Mandi?"

Mandi: "ya"

Justin: "Oh, well she should have said,

Hey BEAUTIFUL."

Hmmm...YES!

I'd say it's because he always knows

what to say.

This kid is good.

So,SO good!

HaLLoWeeN!!! 2010

2010-11-03T13:39:00.000-07:00

HaLLoWeeN!!!!

The School parade!

Always fun, maybe because they are so familiar!

I so remember these parades!!

Being Siamese twins with my best friend Cindy,

that's one I can't forget!

It's really hard walking around in one huge pair of pants.

I think this is what really solidified our friendship.

Oh, and I must mention one of my sister Amber's parades.

She was a bunny.

Everyone loved her bunny teeth!

They looked so real!

uh...that's cuz they were.

OH, these 2 are hilarious.

oh, and just a side note...

I know this is going to sound really weird,

I love glitter.

Obviously, so do my girls.

But,I'm not kidding.

Opening the cabinet and seeing all the bright glitter,

it makes me happy.

I know!!! Random and I really,really shouldn't admit

that a silly thing like

bright, sparkle glitter can make me happy!

I wish we/I could get away with wearing glitter whenever we/I want.

(this realization came as I bought $30 dollars of glitter for Halloween.

BUT hey, it will last me forever. and. it makes me happy.)
:)

Matt, Amber and kids

have moved back to Boise!

We couldn't be happier.

It's so much fun having family close by,

and we adore their children.

Soon, I may just do an entire post about baby Lily!

So sad I don't have a picture of her, but I will!

Because we have adopted her as

OUR baby.

I think these 2 were meant to be twins!

They too are noticing how much they look alike!

( I keep hearing them tell the other,

how freekin good looking they are. Because of course,

they are really just complimenting themselves!) :)

Here we Go...

Once Halloween is over, the holidays are upon us!

I have never been so excited for Thanksgiving!!

So, let me be the first to tell you all,

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!!

New starts.

2010-09-18T22:23:00.000-07:00

Here we go!!

Ready... or not!

I always have mixed emotions

about the beginning of school.

Not ready to to give up my children for hours a day,

and yet ready for a routine again.

This year, even more emotion.

I just turned 39.

All of my children are in school.

Wow, how did this happen?

Really, when did I grow up?

You're always told your children grow up fast,

but really??

This is ridiculous.

I am not old, but they are.?

Mac, 17 next month and a Junior in HS.

These pictures made me laugh, hard.

He was so easy going and pleasant about me taking

his picture!

I really had no idea, but a picture doesn't lie!

One day he will appreciate them,

or at least his wife will.

Mandi, soon to be 14 and an 8th grader.

I really hate not having this beautiful girl around

all day.

Uggg.

Mitch, just turned 11!! The big 5th grade..

the rulers of elementary!

(Love these big cheesy smiles.)

Justin, 6 yrs old and in 1st grade.

This has been the hardest by far.

Sending your first grader away all day,

feels like I'm giving away my baby.

This is still killing me.

Oh, and the "cool" picture with his backpack...

that is courtesy of big brother.

The night before Mac had him practice his "cool" face.

Oh, brother.

LOVE that Mitch is there to look after my

2 little ones.

They LOVE it too.

Gracie, just turned 5
and so ready to be in KINDERGARTEN!!
We love our mornings together.
Really precious time.
She is so happy, absolutely
loving being big.
The pictures below are of her sweet friend Reagan.
They were more than excited to ride the bus.
So adorable.

Goodbye to Summer.
It has been an exceptionally great one.
My kids experienced amazing growth this summer,
in more ways than one.
Memories we will cherish.
Very much looking forward to the year ahead.

Better late then never....Summer 2009!?!

2010-07-28T15:30:00.000-07:00

So, when I started blogging,

I told myself, the best part about blogging...

I never need to feel behind.

I can just pick up anywhere...

right??!!

I've had these collages made since last summer!

(along with others, yet to come)

As I was looking through these pictures from our

Whiting reunion

last summer, I couldn't resist posting.

If you don't want to look at all of them...

skip down to my mom on the swing,

this is a must see.

These pictures brought back some great memories.

We have been blessed with close relationships,

and truly enjoy being together.

These pictures are especially tender,

as they are the last ones we have with our,

Sweet Grandma Pink.

We love and miss you grandma.

Oh, this is

PRICELESS!

Some of us went waaaaay out of our comfort zone

when doing this rope course!

when I saw these pictures,

I decided maybe my kids are right...

I do have some of my mom in me?

one can only hope.

I should probably explain the following photos...

Someone came up with the idea of having a

Whiting Idol.

Not sure who is to blame for this,

but it was a night to remember!

I'm sure the video of this fun night

will be a keepsake for years to come.

Without knowing,

Lou and I chose the same Sonny and Cher song

as my parents!

The younger version and the

older,more polished version of

"I got you babe."

Who knew there was soooo much talent

in the Whiting family!!:)

Seriously, we do have

some amazing stars in this family!

And others...

fake it well!!

The young.

The polished.

Soooo much fun.

This memorable night concluded

with the Buhrley kids preforming,
"Right back where we started from."

The Whiting Family 2009.

Summer Days...

2010-07-18T20:21:00.000-07:00

One of our very favorite

ways to spend a Summer day...

Happy Summer!!

Aspen Grove Family Camp...

2010-07-13T21:28:00.000-07:00

Our Family recently spent a week in

absolute beauty. The Aspen Grove family camp is a week

spent in the Provo Canyon and it is

truly beautiful.

I think this was the most relaxing vacation

I have ever had.

Lots of great family time with as much

or as little to fill your days as you want.

The rock wall and rope course was a favorite...of some,

I'm not included in that 'some'.

But, I was brave!

Crafts was another favorite!

We all could have spent hours in here creating.

As you can see from the pictures,

painting wasn't just done

in the craft room!

Each day the kids spent time doing activities

with kids their own age.

At pick up each day,

we could always count on our youngest two

having freshly painted faces!

This was family dance night!

It was hilarious because most families

were there with HUGE family reunions.

We just had our own little family.

But, hey...

we rocked the house!

My kids could LIVE in the pool.

I'm sure Lou, Mac, Mandi and Mitch

played at least 100 ping pong games!

Gotta love that

friendly competition...ha,ha.

I had to calm Lou down a few times.;)

We left Aspen Grove to spend another

fun two days with our Utah family.

We hiked the Y one day and Stewart falls another.

I hear families that hike together stay together....

well, these guys are definitely keepers.

The cousins love

being together.

Being there for Grandma's birthday

was another highlight!

The pictures below show the

breakfast

Emily and Grace made for her.

They didn't want grandma to lift a finger!!

It was the sweetest thing.

They made a delicious salad

for the birthday girl.

Or, should I say they made ranch dressing

with some spinach on the side!

Grandma was thrilled!:)

Family trips are the best part of summer!

4th of July 2010!!

2010-07-09T20:12:00.000-07:00

Happy 4th of July!!!!! The parade,

ZOO...

and being together,

made for a really good day.

To watch the fireworks,

we hiked to the top of Camel Back.

Fireworks came with a

beautiful view

of the City.

Summer is going

waaaaaaaaaaaaaaaay

to fast!!!!

Summer goals....

2010-06-29T21:08:00.000-07:00

Gracie likes to daydream

about when she becomes a mom....

I was a little nervous to ask how

she would spend her days as a mom,

knowing this is how she sees me spending mine.

This was her answer.

1. clean the kitchen.

2. kiss my honey.

3. play with my kids.

My summer goal is to reverse this order

by moving them all up one.

Life is short.

Let summer begin!

2010-06-18T14:34:00.000-07:00

It's official! I have a graduated Kindergartner!

The thought of this little guy

being gone ALL day for first grade...

makes my stomach feel sick.

really.

Lou says I'm not allowed to think about it for the next 3 months.:)

His graduation program was so sweet.

We were all so proud, but no one as proud as his sis.

As the above picture shows...she sat front and center,

(in the middle of the isle)

the entire time!

I also have graduates from preschool,

4rth, 7th, and 10th grade!

As much as I adore the years when they are little,

I can see how much fun it is

as they are getting older as well.

they may cause a few more grays...;)

but fun!

These are some of my favorite people

in the whole world.

We kept to tradition

and celebrated the first day of summer,

with shaved ice and a trip to the library!.

However,

I'm not sure how much longer my big kids

will let me take a picture in the library!;)

Love having a less scheduled life.

Love having my kids home more.

Love that summer is here!

(somehow my now junior in high school, missed the library...

it may also have something to do with his new drivers license??)

early morning bike ride...

2010-06-08T19:17:00.000-07:00

6:35 a.m. to be exact!

I found Gracie waiting for me,

helmet in hand,

as I pulled in from the gym this morning.

Learn how to ride your bike...right now??....

@ 6:30 in the morning?

How about later?!!

" BUT mom, I know I can do it.

I know I can do it right now!

Pleeeeease!!!"

How could I say no to determination like that?

" Well...Ok, let's go!"

and GO she went!!!!

She wasn't going to let fear get in her way!

She knew she could do it.

She didn't care if she fell,

she didn't care if it took all day!

(luckily for me it didn't!)

Within 20 minutes,

she was starting, stopping,

and gooooooooing all by herself.

It turned out to be a beautiful morning for a ride!

moments....

2010-05-19T13:40:00.000-07:00

I love that photography

can capture a moment.

It finds the feeling and emotion

of a single moment, and as I view it...

reminds me to do the same.

"The trick is to enjoy life.

Don't wish away your days,

waiting for better ones ahead.

The grand and the simple.

They are equally wonderful."

Marjorie Hinckley

A simple and grand
day in the park.

I feel blessed.

K-SHOTS!!

2010-05-01T17:00:00.000-07:00

Last year when Justin had his

Kindergarten shots,

I left wishing

I had brought my camera to document

the sweet interaction as Gracie helped Justin

through this traumatic time in his life!!

Afterward, when Justin had tears in his eyes,

I thought it was because of the shots he had just received..

but he and Gracie were both in tears

knowing her time,

was yet to come... This time I came prepared!

Last year, they had decided Gracie

was NOT going to attend Kindergarten...

(no kindergarten=no shots!)
Well, things changed

as Justin has LOVED Kindergarten!

He worked hard to convince her- that it would be worth it.

"It's not that bad Grace,

I mean it does

Really,Really hurt...

but Kindergarten is

Really,Really fun.

You want to go Grace."

Forgetting about the appointment until 5 minutes before,

worked to our advantage!

Gracie didn't have long to think about what was coming.

I told Justin his job was to take her mind off the shots.

As you can see from the 'before' pictures...

he did a great job!

We were all kept entertained as they posed for the before shots!

BEFORE

AFTER
I don't have near the pictures of the 'after'!
:(
Gracie wanted Justin on the table with her.
He put on all 5 band aids!

This picture melts me.
It's as if she is thinking...
A pink sucker was so
NOT worth 5 shots!

But an ice cream cone on the way home helped!!!!

SPRING BREAK!!!

2010-04-16T19:29:00.000-07:00

VEGAS!!

This year Mandi and I had a pre-break adventure!

Mandi had a soccer tournament in Vegas

and it was a great excuse for a girls trip.

I must say we were quite proud of the way we got around the city.

I was completely confident with Mandi as navigator!!

It was a really fun way to start our

spring break.

TRADITIONS!!!

I LOVE FAMILY TRADITIONS!

One day we may go somewhere warm for

spring break...

but our Targhee spring break has been a tradition for 7 years,

and one we would really miss.

We look forward to this trip all year.

It is such quality family time and makes for wonderful memories.

One favorite tradition of the trip is having

mom and dad Buhrley there with us!

I had to put in the pictures below of my amazing

mom and dad...(in-law).

They kick my fanny on the slopes,

and mom,

looks beautiful while she does it!

Sledding!

Always one of the first things we do.

Our darling 'little deers' in ski class!
Their instructors fought over them!

Fresh Powder
has always been a
Targhee tradition.
This year was no exception.
HOLY POWDER!!!!!

This particular run in knee deep powder

(or waist deep for Mitch) will be a memory forever!!

The powder was like quick sand,Mitch and I

were sinking fast.

Emotions were high and I was beginning to think

it would take the rest of the day to get down.

This is when I heard Mitch quietly saying to himself...

"I am calm, I can do this.

I am calm, I can do this."

He repeated this all the way down the mountain!

It was amazing to see the difference

these words made as they were repeated over and over.

He did stay calm

and he did do it...

ending with a huge smile on his face.

I was so proud of him!

Can you say

POWDER?!?!!!!

Snow dares

are as much of our Targhee tradition,

as skiing is!!

Somehow Lou and I have been able to avoid participating.

It is enough entertainment to watch!!!

On the slopes all day and relaxing in the hot tub each night.

It's a great life.

This trip does provide a lot of family

togetherness!

I think Lou may have started a new tradition!

Our balcony became an ice cream store!

Mom and dad really help make this trip wonderful.

This picture was taken just minutes

after the last run of the week.

AND just minutes after Gracie was begging to go

"just one more time"

to the very top!!

She loved squeezing in

the last run of the day.
It's always hard to see it end.

Spring Break 2010!

Until next time... We came home and enjoyed a relaxing Easter weekend.

I loved spending Easter Sunday as a family watching Conference.

In between sessions the kids tried out their 'Easter' basketballs.

Notice Gracie in her new shin guards...

(like Mandi's!)

Also with her pink basketball

and in her favorite outfit of the week.

This girl is such a girlie girl...

but with some definite spunk!!!

Happy Spring everyone!

sleepy tears...

2010-04-15T22:13:00.000-07:00

6:15 pm...Gracie has a complete

meltdown in the car.

6:25 pm...Gracie is falling asleep!

6:26 pm...Mom tries getting Gracie to,

"wake up!"

(it's way to late in the day for a 'nap'!)

6:27 pm...Justin's very calm plea with mom,

" Mom, maybe let her rest...sometimes when your parents get

VERY stern

and it makes you so,so sad

and you cry

really big tears...

it just makes you sleepy."

I want to remember the sweet,calm delivery of this information.

Especially, on the rare occasion I find myself being,

very stern.

It's my LUCKY day!!!

2010-04-11T21:24:00.000-07:00

Justin Michael Buhrley Lucky!

describes perfectly the way you feel

when Justin's around!

So it is only fitting to begin his birthday post

with some St. Patty day pictures!

Hat and photo session designed by the b-day boy himself. :)

We adore this 6 year old boy.

He brings so much love, energy,
and laughter to our home.
As you can see from the Chucky Cheese birthday pictures above,
you can't help but smile, when he is around!

Somehow, I missed getting many pictures of our celebration.
However, these few definitely show his
personality!
I love the sweet expressions of excitement and gratitude
shown while opening presents.
He doesn't know what it is before he is saying,
"Thank you! Thank you!"

I was happy Lou got some pictures,
of what must of been, a very fun ride!
I just love the way Gracie
is looking at Justin!

Here are just a few things I heard Justin say this week...

"You look beautiful! WOW. you. look. beautiful!"
Justin tells his mom and sisters daily they are beautiful.
He says it with such sincerity,
you just have to believe him!!
He is also the first to notice when I have something new on, or I've changed my hair!

"Mom, you and dad are perfect together..
but sometimes
I wish I would have met you before dad."

"Mom, you are the best mom in the whole,whole world.
I am so glad I have you."

I just asked Mac what's something sweet Justin has said to him lately.
"That's easy... he tells me I'm the best brother in the whole world,
he tells that to me every single day."
Mac then adds,
"Oh, I love that kid."

Tonight,
as Justin was kissing my entire face goodnight,
he said, " I love you mom,
tomorrow I am going to be so,so nice."

With his big brown eyes
and eyelashes that touch his eyebrows,
this little guy can melt your heart in a second.
Add that with his genuine sweet,thoughtful,
(although very mischievous,)
nature... and you have the
most adorable 6 year old in the world!

Happy Birthday Justin.
We feel so LUCKY to be loved by you.
XOXOXOXOX

Snow Days!!

2010-01-20T12:53:00.000-08:00

Anyone for some Football!?! Snow Football!!

Our first snow was welcomed

with a football game!!

For a kiss and a hug,

Justin and Gracie can talk Mac into ANYTHING!
Including, braving the cold snow...
in the dark!!
I felt brave going out to take the pictures!

The kids love when we have snow,
that actually stays, so they can build snowmen!
Mitch and Justin built theirs on the trampoline. :)

These girls make me laugh

everyday.

Can you tell Gracie loves to be like her big sis!?:)

13 going on 30!!

2010-01-17T17:20:00.000-08:00

hApPy BIrThdAy

Our Mandi Girl!!

turns 13!!!!

How we love this girl.
Just thinking about what I could say about this sweet teen
puts a big smile on my face and my heart.

I love this girl.

She is such a light in our home,
and such a huge part of what makes our family,
our family.

This girl has had her dad
wrapped around her finger
since the day she was born-
when she slept the entire first night of her life
in his arms.
She slept peacefully, as soon as she heard his voice.
I will never forget the sweet instant love between these two.

And for me...
she is one of my favorite people
in all the world to spend time with.

She is fun, witty,insightful,
responsible,
thoughtful,beautiful-
(inside and out)
and one of the smartest people I know.

She is my right arm (and the right side of my brain!)
She helps keep perspective in times of chaos and can bring order to my scattered brain, (in my ADD moments!:))
I can't imagine life without her,
and so grateful I don't have to!

Mandi felt so lucky to have so many family members celebrate her day! She was surrounded with people who love her.
Grandma and Grandpa Whiting,Uncle Justin, Uncle Jeremy,
Uncle Randy and Aunt Leah were all there to make her day special.
We spent the afternoon at Randy and Leah's,
who hosted a great birthday party!

Scrabble, bingo, ice cream cake, and the movie "UP"
were some of the party highlights!

Goofy picture taking...
also took up much of the afternoon!
:)

Mandi has always had the ability to see and understand things beyond her years. She has a strong sense of who she is and is quick to learn from her mistakes...

(the 2 mistakes she has had in her life.:))

Mandi has a calmness about her that has brought a lot of peace to our home

Although, don't let her fool you...

she also has quite a spunky teasing streak in her!

Amanda Noel Buhrley

We love and adore you,

everything about you.

We can't wait to see you take on the world!

Thanksgiving Fun....

2009-12-02T22:12:00.000-08:00

Thanksgiving with the Heaps !

I may not have time to get our Christmas cards out this year,

or put up decorations,but...I had to take some time for this post!

I couldn't wait to record our

fun weekend with the Heaps.

I also know from experience- if I wait too long before posting,it may not get done!

It may seem odd to start our

Thanksgiving post

with Leo as the focal point-

but Leo, was the focal point!

"At least I can live out my dream

for one weekend"

comments like this one said by Mitch, were commonly heard.

OK, I must admit- I even enjoyed

seeing Leo run around the house

and sleep with the kids.

I have always said,

If we could just find a dog,

that didn't poop

and didn't smell like a dog... ??

The Heaps tell me Leo's poops are sooo small-

they practically don't count...

Hmmmmm.

The Turkey Trot!

The traditional Thanksgiving morning run!

My injury is still not allowing me to run very much,

so it was definitely a "trot!"

I felt bad holding them back-

but Jacqueline sweetly said,

"Birds of a feather, flock together!"

By my side they stayed-

I'm sure Jac felt like she was walking!

Dinner is served!

We had quite the feast which included,

Matt and Lou having a

Sweet Potato showdown!!

(I think it was a tie vote, both delicious!!)

Jill made her famous homemade rolls.

All of us working in the kitchen together

made for some good memories.

With a broken dishwasher,

we opted for paper plates

and had the easiest

Thanksgiving clean up, EVER!

I know-

they really had to twist my arm on that one.

The only time we had to "parent"

the kids at all...was

getting them to stop playing long enough to eat,

and getting them to bed!

Oh... and when we had to occasionally

step in while Justin was practicing

his new found favorite hobby,

teasing 2 cute little girls.

We also found some time to relax.

Mac got a soothing foot rub

after he bribed Gracie with a new lip gloss,

and Justin lost his FIRST tooth!

This made me a little sad.

First they loose a tooth, and before you know it-their in High School.

Justin really only had 1 piece of advice

for Gracie on loosing a tooth.

"Just don't let Aunt Jill touch it,

and it won't hurt at all!"

Classic.

Black Friday!!

I have never attempted the

Black Friday experience.

We decided- this was the year.

These are pictures

we took before heading out at Midnight.
We flunked the Black Friday test.
We really needed Monica or Wendy with us.
We saw the line at Toys-R-Us

wrapping around the store,
lines for Target and Old Navy starting-
5 hours before they were even opening...
and went home!

Jill captured some great "game faces" during Bowling!
As you can see, we all took it very seriously.

I LOVE this picture of Emily and Gracie!

They just couldn't watch!

Many times after my turn, I felt the same way!

Random craziness!.

See what happens when sisters get together?!

(and this was only 2 of the sisters!)

The kids wanted me to take pictures of them-

"sleeping".

Can you pick out the 1 picture

where they are actually "sleeping?"

Thank you Heaps Family

for spending Thanksgiving with us

and starting out the

Holiday Season

in full swing!

We love you!!

Come back soon,

and don't forget to bring Leo!

Garage at Midnight

2009-12-02T21:50:00.001-08:00

Black Friday

in the Buhrley garage! I forgot to add these pictures

to the original Thanksgiving post.

It just didn't seem right leaving these out-

This was our

"Black Friday" experience!

Black Friday...

the most fun I've had

at midnight in my garage!

First date!

2009-11-09T20:51:00.000-08:00

Mac's first date! Our kids grow up knowing their first date

will be with mom (the boys) or dad (the girls.)

I will get 3 dates out of the deal and Lou only 2!

Friday night I get a call on my cell,

"Yo, wanna go out?"

I laughed and said, "No, I'm busy!"

He called back and tried another approach-

which of course, I accepted!

We had a a really good time.

After a few dating 101 moments,

notice the chopstick picture...

he is ready to hit the dating world!

He opened doors, was a good listener, made me laugh,

told me I was beautiful...I have no worries. :)

Maybe that is the worry-

he is a little too charming!

I really lucked out on this Friday date night!

After Mac and I got home he watched the little ones,

while Lou and I went out for date # 2!

Thanks Mac

for a

great date night!

p.s. So Sorry that you "lost" your wallet!

I hope you find it by your next date!

Trick-or Treat!!

2009-11-02T09:15:00.000-08:00

Happy Halloween!

We started out the night with our traditional

veggie chili and cornbread.

I think this was the 18th year of this tradition.

I had to put in this picture of Gracie as she is saying,

"delicious!" and also because yes,

she is in a swim suit.

I thought this stage would pass! Why do I buy her clothes?!:)As Mac said,

"This is kind of a strange holiday

if you think about it....!"

Yet, it is one we look forward to and enjoy!

Our church Halloween party was a lot of fun.
Between school, church, and trick-or- treating,
we had 3 days of candy celebration!
By the end Justin was giving away his own candy
to kids that came to our door!
I think now he wishes he had it back!:)

Lou and I with a few of our fellow hippie friends!
We used our "Whiting Idol" costumes of
Sonny and Cher.
( I will eventually post pictures of this event!)
Many did not even recognize Lou.
He truly transformed into Sonny!

Halloween 2009!
Let the Holidays begin!!!

Sweet Sixteen!

2009-10-30T14:52:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday Mckay! I know people always say this, but it's true...

where has the time gone!?

I can hardly believe Mac is 16 !!

I love this picture of all the kids.

It was taken 2 days before his birthday

and the way Gracie is lovin on him,

speaks volumes.

He really is the center of our home and

is loved by all.

If you know Mac, you know he does not

like to speak of his accomplishments

nor does he define himself by success.

The only time he has held a trophy or medal

has been for a picture we have pleaded for.

So for me to write anything about him

is pretty risky on my part!

But I think he will allow this because

he knows it means a lot to me!

16 facts about Mckay:

***Every teacher since Kindergarten

has told me the same thing.

Mac is a friend to all.

(and... he talks a little too much. )

"Mac is nice to everyone."

a common phrase said by both teachers and peers.

**Mckay would give away anything

he had if he knew someone really needed it.

He is not driven by money or "things"

but by his huge heart.

**He is very humble and compassionate.

**Mac is a leader.

He has never done something just because someone else does.

**He is very self motivated,

driven and disciplined.

In first grade he woke himself up

by his own body clock so he could read for 2 hours

before school each day-

to win the hot air balloon ride! He did win...

but has never read that much since.:)

**Mckay is competitive but not only with others.

He is continually striving for his personal best.

**Mckay loves his Heavenly Father

and truly wants to follow him.

**Mckay works hard and plays hard.

**Mckay is always looking for ways

to live life to the fullest. It is never a dull moment!

If it is-it is his mission to change that.

**He has an amazing sense of humor

and loves to tease.

**He loves and appreciates a variety of music.

**He loves his family.

**People are drawn to him.

**He is a very loyal friend.

**His has a smile

that can get him pretty much

whatever he wants.

**When talking on the phone he always ends with an

"I love you"-always.

These pictures brought back

a flood of sweet memories.

We are so grateful for this

strong, faithful ,kind hearted

16 year old!

Happy Birthday Louis Mckay,

Mac, Mac attack, Mac-a-Dude, Big Mac...

We Love you!

Arizona weekend!

2009-10-29T21:27:00.000-07:00

Lou and I spent last weekend in Arizona!

We have family on both sides and it was wonderful

to spend this quick trip with them.

Lou had meetings in Scottsdale,

and we had planned on staying in a hotel.

Wendy, the great and wise

sister she is,

talked me into staying at her house

(it didn't take much talking.)

and putting the hotel money to better use.

Which I joyfully did, doing some seriously fun

Arizona shopping!

Friday night both Buhrley families

met up with Wade and Monica for some

great food and even better company.

Saturday we had lunch with all the Whiting clan -

minus Jos:( at Grecko grill.

How I love this family!

We had a great time finding out about

Laurisa's college life-

and tried to get as much info as possible on her "love" life.

I take this responsibility very seriously as an Aunt.

However, Mckay was not happy

I hung out with Mitch and Jake

without him!

He insists on coming with us next time!

Monica surprised me with

a cute,cute,cute apron

she had made the day before!

(notice the top picture in the collage!)

With an apron this cute-

cooking...

is sure to be a delight!?

( or at the very least I will look adorable!)

After lunch, Monica,Wendy and I

had a productive shopping day!

I always like to be productive!

My bags were much heavier coming home!

These woman are dangerous to shop with!:)

Really, it's probably because I actually had time to shop

without any other responsibilities!

It was a fun day.

Sunday morning while Lou finished up in meetings,

I spent time with Grandma Wright.

I arrived at grandma's assisted living home at 8 a.m.

and was able to spend the next 5 hours visiting.

It was a sweet, sweet experience.

I was thrilled when my Aunt Ginger,

cousins Bridgett and Wendy-

with 2 of her darling children,

came and kept me company for 3 hours!

I don't get to see my Arizona family near enough

and it was wonderful!

It was fun catching up

and it made for the perfect ending to a great weekend.

Monica and Mitch came before we had to leave

and Mitch gave us all a magic show.

There are 5 women staying in this home

and I think they all now have a crush on Mitch.

I don't blame them.

Thank you Wendy

for the fun shopping, late night talking,

and a weekend that felt like a vacation.

I love spending time with you

and wanted to pack your sweet kids in my suitcase

and bring them home.

Yes, all of them-not just baby Luke!

Although, Luke- I would never give back.

Can't wait for my next

Arizona visit!

p.s. I am also going through major withdrawals

from going on 3 trips with Lou this month.

San Diego

2009-10-09T13:31:00.000-07:00

The Endodontic meetings we attend in San Diego

every October are some of my very favorite.

I love the setting-(it's held at a beautiful resort )

and I love the atmosphere this conference provides.

Those who come to these meetings are truly interested

in improving the service and quality

of the work they do each day.

Not quantity, but quality.

It is nice to be associated with people

of such integrity.

We always bring the staff to this conference

and I also love being around these women.

I also love spending time
with this particular Endodontist.
We had quite the laughs trying
to take these evening shots... of ourselves!

However, this weekends highlight had to be
Baby Lily.
Matt and Amber were thoughtful enough
to have this beautiful baby on the one day

we could drive up and see them!
They were less then 2 hours away

and we couldn't get there fast enough.
There is just nothing like a newborn.
She melted my heart.
I truly would have taken her home

with me if I could have.
It was very hard to leave the hospital.
We loved being able to share a few moments
of this special time with Matt and Amber.

It also seems to be a tradition
to stop by Mike and Pepper's house for pizza each year!
They only live about an hour from where we stay
and it's fun to spend a few hours together and catch up.
It is also nice to see their darling children

when Grandpa Buhrley is not around.
Grandpa tends to be a little selfish with his grandchildren.
Actually, the truth is when Grandma and Grandpa are around
no one else matters!

Welcome Lily Odessa Buhrley!

Daddy/Daughter date night!

2009-09-24T21:13:00.000-07:00

Daddy/Daughter nights...

just one of the many

highlights of having a daughter!These two

make quite the team!

Laborbirth Day!

2009-09-18T19:23:00.000-07:00

This year my Birthday

fell on Labor Day.

I loved everyone having the day off to play with me!

My morning started out with sleeping in until 8 a.m.!!

I awoke to sweet Birthday signs all over the house

(Thank you Mandi!)

I also awoke to busy sounds coming from the kitchen!

This is what I found!

I proceeded with a morning workout,

while my family slaved away in the kitchen

making a gourmet breakfast!

Serious good food!

serious sweet husband/dad.

Beautiful fruit and delicious veggie omelet.

My favorites.

We spent the day together-

including another picnic at the park.

This just may be a new birthday tradition!

The day ended with our "Special Cake".

Grandma Whiting created this years ago!

She really should have gone public with this

before Betty Crocker did!

"Special Cake"

includes adding pudding and chocolate chips to the mix

and topping it with cream cheese frosting.

Out of this world.

We also put applesauce instead of oil.

This not only makes it healthier,

(so we can add more chocolate chips!),

but makes it sooooo moist-
absolutely delish.

This was topped off with

homemade ice cream.

Heavenly, the best ice cream I have ever had!

A very nice Laborbirth day.

Sleeping Angels...

2009-09-12T00:13:00.000-07:00

There is something so sweet,

so peaceful about a sleeping child.

Watching a sleeping child,

can almost make you forget the craziness of the day.

Almost
These are Gracie's bedroom walls.
These pictures were taken a few hours earlier,
while my sleeping Angels-
were still awake.
Walls covered with make-up AND fingernail polish.
LOTS of fingernail polish.
They thought this was absolutely beautiful.
Gracie couldn't wait to show me how they had decorated her room.
They begged me to at least
leave the Justin and Gracie portrait on the wall,
"it's so beautiful!"
(bottom right hand corner picture.)
Justin in trying to explain his part in all of this,
"I came in and saw Gracie doing this.
It just looked like soooo much fun.
I wanted to try. I'm sorry mom."

Gracie, through tears,
" But when do I get my make-up back?"
Hmm... how about in 15 years?

Laugh or cry?
Laugh-quietly.
These "little" angels of mine,
won't be little for long.

Tradition!

2009-09-03T15:34:00.000-07:00

First Day of School!

My kids know by now, not to fight the traditional

"going out the door photos".

In fact, I tell them no matter how old they are,

or what grade they're in....

I will be there with my camera on that day!

They laugh at the thought of me showing up

on their College doorstep.

I get a little sentimental about the first day of School.

Maybe it's my own childhood memories and excitement

of this day or the tradition of first day cookies

I knew would be there when I came home.

Something about this day

makes me want to freeze it for a moment.

I look at my kids a little longer,

trying to feel and appreciate the moment.

Feeling a little in awe

that another school year is starting -

Knowing my kids won't ever be this age again.

Knowing my kids-

are growing up.

and Feeling grateful to be their mom.

Mac
Sophmore

Mandi
7th grade

Mitch
4rth grade

Justin
Kindergarten

Gracie
Preschool

With my little ones going to school in the afternoon,
I had a little more time for photos!
They are always willing and ready to pose.

This is a big year for these two!
Spending each afternoon apart is going to be quite the change.
As Gracie did not have preschool on Justin's first day,
she was able to send him off.
The below pictures show her-
First, driving him to the bus stop-
and then saying their good-byes.

Cooking the first day of school cookies kept Gracie busy

while waiting for the bus to bring him back!

Mandi was the first to come home to warm cookies

and an anxiously waiting Gracie!

We were all excited to meet the boys at the bus stop.

Mitch and Justin looked so cute

coming off the bus together.

I am so glad Justin has his big brother to look after him!

Mitch found Justin sitting on

the wrong bus coming home!

Worried this would happen again, I heard Mitch assure Justin

he would "never, ever go home without him."

Justin is also glad, ( and proud) to have his big brother looking out for him.

Later that night as I was tucking my Kindergartner in,

I realized he went through a "right of passage" this day.

He no longer is talking of marrying his mom or sisters.

He has a new love.

"Mom, Mrs. Pace is so,so,so,so,so,so, just so,so,so, pretty.

When I get old I want to marry her."

Apparently Mrs. Pace made a VERY good first impression!

Yes, I think Justin will adjust just fine.

Last week of Summer!

2009-08-26T20:43:00.000-07:00

The last week of Summer!?!

I can't believe it!

I do not feel ready to give up the freedom of

spontaneous evenings, late nights...( playing NOT doing homework!)

Vacations, reunions, and spending lots of time together.

We have not been bored!

It's been a wonderful Summer, if only a little too short.
We have played to exhaustion-

as this picture taken after a game of SkipBo shows.

Some of us didn't last the game.

The ones not pictured were the ones winning...

and the ones awake!:)

Here are some random favorites of

Summer.

I absolutely LOVE coming home to flowers on my porch.

They didn't do as well this year...bad dirt:( but this is how they looked for a little while!:)

Some of my favorites this year were the wild flowers
shown here that surrounded our raspberry patch.
We have already been eating raspberries from our starts this year!
In fact, if we can't find Mandi....we know where to look.
Her favorite getaway this Summer had to be the raspberry patch.
I think she ate 3/4 of our crop!

Pictured here are some of the first picks of the year.
Justin was unsure of the beats!
Until he found out what eating them does.
Now it is a favorite- as he loves red pee.

Gotta love backyard camping!
Easiest camping clean up EVER!
Gracie took the matter of getting a swimming pool
into her own hands!
I came out one day as she was "swimming."
As you can also see-she has started to wear make-up.

One of the backyard forts made this Summer.
-not pictured-
countless indoor forts!

Backyard Pac meetings.
Mitch didn't quite make it!!
So close!

Here are some pictures of us partying on Mitchell's tenth b-day!
Party Time is always a favorite.

It is not Summer around here

without Popsicles in the freezer!

Creamies are a definite favorite.

Good Summer memories

(with more posts and pictures to come!)

Ready or not, school here we come!

Our baby is growing up.

2009-08-23T13:36:00.000-07:00

I'm 4 years old!! Gracie's special day is August 12th!!

I can hardly believe it's been 4 years.

Gracie woke up to traditional b-day love notes-
(decorations) and b-day "sugar" cereal.
She has waited for this day for....
about a year.

"Gracie, what do you want to do for your birthday?"
"Gracie, if you could go ANYWHERE,

where would it be?"
These were the questions

the kids were excitedly asking.
(In hopes Gracie having a birthday-

would mean a very amazing day for them as well!)
Gracie did know exactly

where she wanted to go and

exactly what she wanted to do

for her birthday.
Without any hesitation,
she enthusiastically announced her wish.
" The park and ice cream!"
Park and ice cream?
DONE!!!
Hmmm....I suppose we could arrange that!:)
I loved the look on the kids faces when they heard her simple requests.
To the Park we go...!

The fact we don't have a swing set... yet
could be counted as child abuse.
All this b-day girl wants ...is to swing!
And we had no problem granting her wish.

This little girl brings so much life and joy to our home.

She has everyone of us willingly

wrapped around her little finger.

Happy big 4 baby girl!

We simply adore you.

You give us so much love...

and ask so little in return.

Hugs

kisses

tickles

*back scratches

and the park.

A very content 4 year old at the end of her day.

I am a LUCKY mom!

2009-07-24T07:00:00.000-07:00

If you have ever been in need

of a babysitter

you will understand the JOY and Relief

of finding a great one!

The search for that perfect one, is not an easy quest.

My search is over

and I don't even have to pick them up

or take them home!After a date night a couple of weeks ago,

we came home to...

The Tinker Palace!

Mandi and Mitch had turned our kitchen-

into a restaurant!

Some of the items may have been a little over priced,

but definitely worth it!!

This is what my kitchen/restaurant,

looked like when I came home.

Need I say more??

I LOVE summer!

I love having my kids home.

The kids like to "play" school and

Justin and Gracie eat it up.

(not to mention how all this activity helps mom!)

They have class time, P.E. recess, snack...

I just had to take a picture of the cute letter

that was sent home from school.

I love how the letter is signed-

"Miss Mandi and Mr. Buhrley."

(and apparently Gracie needs

some work on her focus.)

I am a lucky mom.

Now if I could just figure out a way ...

to stop them from growing up so fast!

The Big 41.....never looked better!!!

2009-07-21T07:32:00.000-07:00

Louis Jay Buhrley Happy birthday Lou!

I am missing this birthday boy like crazy.

I am in Fargo ND, (wrestling Nationals)

and away on his b-day-

for the 2nd year in row!!

Not only am I away, but the kids are gone!

Because there is not a

dad

in the

entire world loved more -

I think this is as hard on the kids as it is me to be away on his day!

(Yes, my mother-in-law looks like a model!
And, she has hardly aged since this picture.)

Thank you mom and dad B for raising this little boy
to be the amazing man that he is.

Before leaving, I asked all the kids
to give me 3 words to describe their dad.
The only trouble they had was keeping to only 3.
I told them to give me the first ones they thought of.
I'll start with me.

Joni-generous,devoted,full of integrity
Mac-hard working, determined, FUN.
Mandi-smart,creative,FUN
Mitch-nice,cool,FUNNY
Justin-He plays "bull" on the trampoline with me,
he helps me, he is excited to see me.
Gracie-he jumps on the trampoline with me, he puts me on his shoulders, he holds my hand, he kisses me, he tickles me, he plants the garden with me..
(she didn't like the keep it to 3 idea.)
and he LOVES me!
I think it is fair to say FUN is a common theme!

The other day I overheard a friend ask Mac,

"Who is your dad's best friend?"

Without hesitation he answered, "My mom".

You see not only are we lucky

to have a husband and dad

who is devoted and generous with his time for us...

but blessed because he actually

wants, enjoys-and prefers being with US!

We do not take this for granted because

we want, enjoy and prefer to be with him too!

WE LOVE YOU!

HAPPY BIG "41"!

"You say it's your birthday...it's my birthday too!"

2009-07-16T08:18:00.000-07:00

Mitchell William Buhrley

goes double digits!

Happy Birthday Mitch!

Mitch has been adored since the day he was born.

We got a glimpse of his sweet personality when as a toddler

he would daily say,

"Mom, you can count on me!"

Mitch has kept true to his word!

Mitch is the first to take care of someone in need.

We tell him he is "magic''.

When the little ones are having a hard time-I will say,

"Mitch can you work some of your magic?"

He can make a child forget he is mad or sad like magic!

Really, it is amazing!

and a mothers dream!*10 things to know about my 10 year old*
1.affectionate-Mitch will ALWAYS give you loves

2. Helpful *he truly can be counted on.

3. Funny *witty,quick,and highly entertaining.

4. Athletic *will try anything-and does it well!

5.Determined *I have never seen him back down from a challenge.

6. Self motivated *wants to do his best

7.Organized *very good remembering things!

8.Diligent *can always be found kneeling in prayer before bed.
9. Playful *kids of ALL ages flock to him!

10.He loves otter pops, salad w/ranch dressing, and skittles.

Look at this face!
I remember wishing I could freeze time.

We love you Mitch!
What a wonderful day for us all to celebrate!
Happy BIG 10!!

Rock-n-Rollin Seattle!

2009-07-13T10:39:00.000-07:00

The last weekend in June was spent

Rockin-n-Rollin in Seattle! Well, perhaps more rolling then rocking...

or should I say crawling!?

I ran the Seattle Rock-n-Roll Marathon

with some of my best friends!

Although, 2 of the running sisters couldn't make the trip.

They let things like school and kids come in between us!:)
(we missed you Emily and Lori!)

I think after this weekend Bret-

Kristi's husband, is officially one of us.

Even though he is actually a "biker"

(or should I say "cyclist"?)

He humors us and joins us for a marathon

without even training!

We have always wanted to do a rock-n-roll marathon

where there is a live band every mile.

Having my brother Jeremy in Seattle made this the perfect location!

This is Jer- our personal "chauffeur"!

He took us to and from the race, which meant he had to wake up @ 4:30 a.m.!

As I was already feeling pain in my leg...

(yes, mom I WILL see a doctor and find out what is wrong-and NO running the marathon did NOT make it worse!:))

It was really tempting to skip the 26.2 miles

of a hilly course and stay in the car!

Some brother/sister bonding time

was looking really,really good.

I did get out of the car...

and the above picture was taken minutes before the race.

the picture below...

minutes AFTER the finish!

Something about completing a marathon, brings your emotions to the surface.

It's quite the amazing-and a little insane- experience.
Crossing the finish line you see many tears

and excited friends and family members

cheering and hugging the exhausted runners.

As I started into the crowd feeling a little lonely-

I suddenly saw Jeremy!

How did he manage to find me?

Minutes after my finish?

There were 28,000 runners+spectators+volunteers,

finding someone is next to impossible!

I was so happy to see him.

I love this guy!

It made the entire weekend

to be able to spend so much time with Jer.

He took such good care of us

and it is always fun to have

friends you love meet family you love.

The running sisters

Jolyn, DaNel, Lori, Emily, and Kristi

I feel so lucky to have such good friends.

Meet them and you will see why I get up

in the wee hours of the morning.

For a run?

YES!

But these ladies make it so much more.

We are able to solve our days problems in an hour run-

and the entire worlds problems in a 20 miler.

These great women are so uplifting and have saved me

many $$$$$ in therapy sessions!

I feel lucky to have experiences like these.

Grateful for a supportive husband

who encourages me to

GO FOR IT!

Anyone up for the Newport, Oregon Marathon next June?

It is a beautiful and flat course that I plan on being 100% injury free to enjoy!

Celebrating the 4th!!

2009-07-09T22:41:00.000-07:00

Get ready for picture overload!

Sorry, I couldn't help it!

We spent a WONDERFUL Holiday

weekend in Idaho Falls,

and of course documented it all.

Keep in mind there were 3 of us taking pictures,

so it isn't all my fault.

(believe me, I could have posted more.

I think Dad B alone took like 35o pictures !) We have decided IF is a great place to spend

the 4th of July.

Summers there are perfect.

Even when it is hot, you always have a breeze.

It really was the perfect weekend.

We started the day-

with the parade.

Moved on to fair rides!

These are some of my favorites.
They LOVED this obstacle course.
They LOVED the competition!
They were laughing so hard,
I think they could have done this all day
if it wasn't so much work!
I love the pictures of Lou below.

Gracie shared her 4th of July hairband....

We spent time at a fun park nearby.

Mckay may want to stop teaching Mitch all his moves.

It's backfiring on him!

Seriously, I think Idaho Falls

has the best firework show I have ever seen!

It is right along the river

and right by the temple!

Highly recommend coming to see them!

Amazing.

The next day no one was ready to leave!

The kids had to fit in every last thing they could.

We went to church, had a wonderful dinner,

fit in last pushes on the swing,

tree climbing and walks...

It is never enough!

This picture of Mac and Gracie

is also one of my favorites.

My little ones

have my big ones

wrapped around their fingers.

Happy Fourth of July!

Summer WORK and PLAY!

2009-06-25T07:28:00.000-07:00

This year's planting was not the usual! Everyone helped with the veggie garden,

but Lou had another "vision".

This vision included raspberries-

many, many raspberries.

I came home one day to a driveway

full

of dirt and railroad ties.

The end result is quite amazing,

and well worth all of Lou's hard work...ha,ha

Especially, when we are all eating raspberries.

We eat them like candy around here!

Lou planted 70 raspberry starts.

Wow.

I had to take "planting" pictures, because the

"weeding"

pic's won't be quite as exciting!

(if you look closely in one of the photo's,

you can see Lou's beautiful

raspberry patch behind us.

More pic's to follow!)
-

As I mentioned,

we had a LOT of dirt in our driveway--

(for a few weeks.)

The kids LOVED it..

I thought it was a mess-

a fun mess, but a mess.

As I was pulling out one day

and saw Justin and Grace in the dirt pile,

again...

I said, " Oh, guys. I really don't want you in that!

You get your hands so dirty and it gets all in your hair.

This is really dirty dirt."

( not sure what I meant by that. Is some dirt not dirty?)

This picture shows what I came home to!

Their solution to dirty hands and hair.

By the look on my face, they knew I didn't buy it.

With some quick thinking....Justin very sweetly says,

"Mom, do you want to take a picture?

We look so cute!"

He knew if it was a picture moment,

I couldn't be mad.

One of my kids FAVORITE summer activities

is sleeping on the tramp.

These pictures were taken

BEFORE

the 1:30 a.m. sprinklers came on

and drenched them.

Whoops.

Dad is always there.

2009-06-20T21:08:00.000-07:00

I remember as a child ,

knowing there was nothing

my dad couldn't do, or fix.

(I knew this, because it is true,

there is nothing my dad can't do or fix!)

A fathers love and strength

can give such a sense of security,

confidence and well being.

If dad is there,

everything will be, OK

The confidence and Trust

I see in my children's eyes when they look at their dad,

is one of the greatest blessings in my life.

They have no doubt

they will be taken care of,

they are loved, and that if dad is there-

everything will be, OK

This fathers Day

I am overwhelmed with gratitude

for the three fathers in my life.

My own,

Lou's -whom I am blessed to call my own,

and the father of my children.

Howard W. Hunter has said,

"True greatness is never a result

of a chance occurrence

or a one-time effort or achievement.

It requires the development of

character.

It requires a multitude of correct decisions

for the everyday choices

between good and evil."

How grateful I am

for the choices these three men have made

throughout their lives.

They live their lives in

"true greatness".

They lead, through daily examples of

loving the Lord and following the Savior.

*Happy Fathers Day to all Fathers*

We honor you.

And an especially heartfelt

Thank you and expression of deep love

for my three fathers.

Thank you,

for making everything,

The other "Boise Buhrley's"!!

2009-06-19T22:07:00.000-07:00

The Other "Boise Buhrley's"come back

HOME!!!

Well, at least for a couple of days... It's been almost a year since Matt, Amber and the kids moved to California,

(Matt is attending an Endo program there.)

Justin made the comment,

" I waited so, so long for them to come over and play.

It took sooooo long!"

We have really missed them.

As you can see,

they have such a great time together

and my kids simply adore them.

Eliza and Porter are so sweet

and we couldn't get enough of them.

Mckay spent time teaching Porter some new tricks!

(I told Matt it was payback!)

It was actually pretty harmless--

Some dancing and sayings like,

"Mckay is the best"

and

" Hi, my name is Porter and I'm a cool dude!"

When he wasn't glued to Mitch,

( i'm not sure there was a time he wasn't glued to Mitch??)

he was in full character--usually Buz Lightyear.

Like I said...

we couldn't get enough!

Lou and I always enjoy Matt and Amber.

They are so fun and easy to be with.

It was a super fun visit.

It felt like they should still

be living just around the corner!

Hopefully they will be soon!

Growing up...

2009-06-13T09:14:00.000-07:00

It was so much fun to have Justin and Grace

in the same Pre-school class this year!

Every Tuesday I went with them on a "field trip".

Here are a few photos of our Tuesday fun through out the year.

The last day of school was a Luau...
and Justin's graduation!
Here comes Kindergarten!

Advancing to Kindergarten, also means...

the dreadful Kindergarten shots.

These pictures were taken after we got home.

I told them to look "sad" and this is what I got.

(doesn't look staged at all, does it!)

I wish I would have had the camera

at the Doctor's office.

I thought the nurse was going to bring everyone in

to see how Gracie was taking care of Justin.

She pulled up a stool right next to him

and held his hand while trying to comfort him.

Even more,

I wish I would have had a tape recorder

of the conversation between the two leaving the Doctor's office!

Justin kept telling Gracie over and over again,

when she gets her shots--

she is "going to cry to death,

just cry to death."

At first Gracie was being really brave,

This begin to slowly change with every

"cry to death."

Justin then says,

"Mom, I don't want to come

when Gracie gets her kindergarten shots.

Please mom, I'm not going to come."

This upset Gracie and I thought it was a little odd? Until he said,

" I just can't see it mom,

It is going to really, really hurt her!"

At this point Gracie is in tears imagining the pain she has to look forward to.

Justin comes up with a plan.

Gracie is not going to Kindergarten.

No Kindergarten,

No shots.

Oh, the perfect plan!

They now discuss the details--

Justin will go to school

and come home and teach Gracie!

They are both pleading for me to allow this to happen!

There are no more tears, no more anxiety--

just joy and relief that they have decided

Gracie will not be going to Kindergarten.

Later Justin comes to me-

very quietly and says,

"Mom, how am I going to do that?"

He has faced reality.

He knows Gracie is going to have to face the shots.

He is not telling her.

He is letting them both be in denial for another year.

side note...in Gracie's bedtime prayer's just last night,

she said "thank you for me not going to Kindergarten."

School's OUT for SUMMER!!!

2009-06-03T18:38:00.000-07:00

Today was the last day of school...

it is officially SUMMER!

First stop-- our traditional trip to the library,

topped off with a McDonald's ice cream cone.

You have heard of a "rain dance" to bring rain? Well, the kids decided a "sun dance" was needed to bring in the sun! They had a boys against girls dance- off. Apparently, the boys felt they needed to have their shirts off to fully embrace the

summer sun and summer freedom!

I am the nicest mom ever, at least that is what I tell my kids. I told them they had the rest of the week off! We will wait and start our home summer school on Monday. Mitch said, "thanks mom!" until the rest of the kids looked at me like I was crazy. Then he realized he had the sneakiest mom ever.
Happy Summer everyone!!!

Mitch the BEAR!

2009-06-02T10:04:00.000-07:00

Mitch received his "Bear" in Scouts last month!

Mitch has wonderful Scout Leaders-

that make it much easier for the parents!

I especially love the picture with Mitch hugging his dad.

I love Lou's relationship with the kids.

I also love the picture, with Mitch -

showing off his award and Justin showing off his..

Pretzel?

Ha, anything to be a little more like his big brother!

Mitch is such an amazing big brother.

He will play and play and play.

HE also makes it much easier for the parents!

The other day when Justin came in the house after playing with Mitch-

with a proud smile on his face, he said,

"Mitch really loves me."

Siblings can do what parents cannot.

Such an important bond I am so grateful for,

and is so worth working for!

Needs some extra cash??

2009-05-22T20:53:00.000-07:00

Okay, so Lou is right this minute, on his way to Target.

To pick up Mac and friends.

Mac has been playing his guitar

in front of Target-

for money.

He earned 8 dollars in less then 30 minutes!

They are spending the 8 dollars on toilet paper.

Hmmm.....wonder what they have planned

next.

I am sitting here Laughing at the thought of this picture-

oh, how I would love to have a picture!

Did they have a cup or a hat for the money?

maybe no one recognized him.

I can only hope.

p.s. I think I should take a cut in the profits.

I pay for the guitar lessons.

p.p.s secretly, I think this sounds like way too much fun.

I've always told my kids I could have been a rock star...

but I chose to be a mom instead.

Spring comes to an end...

2009-05-22T16:40:00.000-07:00

With Summer almost upon us...

our Spring sports have come to an end! Grandma and Grandpa Whiting with the

2009 Greco State Champion.

We felt so lucky to have Gram and pa Whiting

come and share this exciting weekend with us!

They were great cheerleaders and patient

with Mac's desire for "quiet" cheering...;)

Mac has never been a fan of being the center of attention.

However, he may just need to get used to it!

Soccer is such a fun sport to watch!

Timid children-- I do not have!

And watch out, their size may be deceiving.

They will take anyone head on--

no matter the size!

I know I'm their mom,

but I also happen to think I have the

cutest soccer players on the field.

Bring on SUMMER!

1, 2, 3, 4

2009-05-08T11:57:00.000-07:00

When this song comes on the radio,

I turn it up-- the kids know it is a favorite.

Yesterday as it came on, this is the conversation I heard from the back.

Gracie: "Oh, I love this song!"

Justin: "Is this song about our dad?"

Gracie: "Yes Justin, it's for her honey."

As you read this...

I will be off spending

10 days, 24/7

with their dad,

and

"honey"

"TRICK-OR-TREAT!!".....???????

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

Justin and Gracie on Saturday,

April 25th ...8:30 A.M.

This is what I saw as I drove down our street
coming home from my Saturday run.

Yes, they were ACTUALLY trick-or-treating
our neighbors.
On a Saturday @ 8:30 in the morning.

AND yes, they actually got candy.
When I asked why they were trick-or-treating in APRIL?
They replied,
"We were hungry and dad wouldn't feed us!"

Oh, so dad is to blame.

Poor kids- starving, what else could they do?
I went in and asked Lou if he had seen the kids?
"ya, they are playing dress up."

love it.

"Did you know....?"

2009-05-04T08:33:00.000-07:00

Abraham Lincoln
It was quite amazing to see Abraham Lincoln in person!
(he is shorter, but much cuter then I had expected.)

Did you know that President Lincoln would walk

20 miles-
to borrow books to read?

He was a man of honor.
In his adult life he bought a store,
and although it failed-
he repaid the debt even though it took

17 years to do so!

It was fun to learn a few new things

about this great leader.

Thanks Mr. President for visiting the 3rd grade!

Chocolate Chip soup

2009-04-27T21:33:00.000-07:00

My niece, who has had a particularly challenging last few months...
has said that children have helped to heal her heart.

Children give perspective.
Children give love.
Children want love.
Children are a gift.

It is no wonder our Savior has said,

"....Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven. Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child, the same is greatest in the kingdom of heaven." Matthew 18:3-4

Not a day goes by
that I don't feel gratitude for the opportunity to be a mother.
This is not to say it is easy! It is the hardest thing I have, and will ever do.
Which makes it such a blessing in my life.
As I often (jokingly, but.. with some truth!) tell my kids,
"What doesn't kill you--will make you stronger!"
Being a mother is making me stronger.
The daily lessons I learn from being a mother
are helping me to reach my full potential,
to become the person I am suppose to be.
It is a process, two steps forward, one step back.
Not perfection, but progress nonetheless.
And gratefully, kids are resilient and forgiving.
Justin has told me-

"mom, I will always love you,even when you are mad."

I guess, I am just wanting to express my gratitude for joy.
The small and precious, daily moments of joy
that help soften the days ups and downs.

They give you perspective,
help you stop for a moment,
And feel-- really feel, the treasure that life is,
and the joy that comes from loving.

One reason I have enjoyed blogging,
is it helps me recognize the moments that make life so meaningful.
Those small, usually simple everyday moments
that will one day make up a lifetime of happy memories.
Sometimes "life" can get so busy that we miss them!
And yet they are always there if we take the time to see them.
The pictures below show one such moment.
So glad I didn't miss it.

I was enjoying a long hot shower

when 2 very excited toddlers

came running into my bathroom.

"Mom, mom, we have a surprise for you.

You're not going to believe this...

WE made DINNER for you!"

I tried to hide my fear, remember-

I had taken a long shower.

" When is everyone getting home? We have the table all set!"

It is only 9 a.m.

I am terrified to enter the kitchen.

"Close your eyes!"

I am definitely closing my eyes.

Holding my hands they proudly guide me to the table,

and to their amazing creation of Chocolate Chip Soup!

They did have the table set for 7 and had already dished some up for me to taste.

I was both stunned and relieved.

Stunned at the amount of water and dishes

that covered the kitchen in their preparation of dinner,

but also relieved,

it could have,(and has been!) sooooo much worse!

Because we wanted to eat the soup "while it was good",

we decided not to wait for the rest of the family.

We enjoyed fun conversation over an early dinner

of Chocolate Chip Soup.

And then...

went and got dressed for the day.

Wanna RACE??!

2009-04-22T10:14:00.000-07:00

Mitch and Dad...

the proud winners of the Pinewood Derby!!

The bottom picture in the collage is a friend of Mitchell's trying to carry him to the "cheers" of the crowd! His friends were so happy for him! Mckay later confessed he had seriously considered trading out the wheels on his old derby car (without Lou and Mitch knowing,) because he really wanted Mitch to win! Mac had won 2 years in a row with these speedy wheels! However, Lou and Mitch were following all the rules. This made the big win all the sweeter! I also had to post the video below, I loved seeing him run back to see his car race.

To be 9 again!!

Way to go MITCH!!

who knew I married the pinewood derby master?

i'm such a lucky girl.

Easter at the Buhrley's...

2009-04-16T13:25:00.000-07:00

The Easter bunny comes

to our house on Saturday!

(makes for a fun Saturday,

and wonderfully peaceful Easter Sunday!)

After finding eggs around the house,

we dyed our own.

It's a good thing this is a fun tradition--because it is a messy one!

Saturday night we made Easter cookies.

The recipe takes you through the scriptures

and the last days of our Savior.

You leave the cookies in the "tomb" overnight,

and in the morning you have a hollow cookie,

and a sweet visual of Christ's resurrection.

After church on Sunday, we tried to get a few photo's!

The older kids seemed to disappear...

but we cornered these two!

However, you will see-

Justin was in quite the goofy mood!

The kids are- obviously- not shy in front of a camera.

But..they are used to me taking

candid photo's of them ...

so when I asked them to hold hands

and walk away from me--

they thought I had lost it!

As I was taking this photo,

a giggling Gracie turns to Justin-

and very quietly says, "this is sooo dumb."

You could see the wheels turning in Justin's head--

(if you look closely at this picture you can see it in his eyes!)

as if saying... "yah, this is dumb!!
and, WHY - are we doing this !?"

That's all it took-they were off and running,

never to return.

Candid photo's are more fun anyway...

Happy Easter!