BOOK SIGNING

One of Colton's favorite authors is Brandon Mull who's written the Fablehaven series.  This is the second time Colton has been to his book signings.  He was so happy to see him again and get new books signed.  I just love that Colton loves books and enjoys getting in line to see an author.  Now Colton's off to finish reading Fablehaven: Secrets of the Dragon Sanctuary.

COLTON TURNS (GULP) 13!!!

This is what we woke up to on St. Patrick's Day.  A group of young women came to wish Colton a Happy Birthday by toilet papering our home.  All I can say is BRAVO!!!  They left a HAPPY BIRTHDAY poster (that they all signed) and a six-pack of Dr. Pepper (his favorite) at the front door.  I think it was a great start to his 13th birthday.  Of course, Colton gave us BIRTHDAY LIST 2009 to help with the shopping process.  He listed the three things he wanted - 1. The Flip Video Ultra in Black and an underwater case - 2. Fablehaven Package (he made this up: reserve the new Fablehaven book and take him to Brandon Mull's book signing the next week) - 3. Gift Cards (he was so kind as to let us know what stores he would want these gift cards from).  The best part of the BIRTHDAY LIST 2009 was the comment at the bottom of the page.  I quote: "Thanks, guys.  I'm really counting on you to make this the best possible birthday ever!"

Well, HE'S SPOILED!!! (I know, no newsflash here)  He didn't get everything, but he did get the Black Flip Video Ultra and his Fablehaven Package from us.  Kyler got him the movie Rocketman (you must own this if you have boys....it's worth it to hear them laugh!) and Asher gave him a Chuck Norris poster filled with Chuck Norris facts. EXAMPLE:  Chuck Norris only skydived once because the world only needs one Grand Canyon.  (yes, all my boys are obessed with Chuck Norris at the moment)

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, COLTON!

SAYING GOODBYE TO GRANDMA

Aren't those flowers beautiful?  My favorite is the heart shaped wreath with purple flowers.  I thought it was most fitting for my grandma's 86th birthday -  the day we said goodbye to her. She passed away on February 10th and her funeral was held on February 18th.   She was such a fun grandma to have.  She always took us places (ok, grandpa took us since grandma didn't drive, but grandma was in charge) and played with us.  She let us paint ceramics and have fun slumber parties.  I loved spending the night with some cousins and all of us wearing grandpa's white undershirts as pj's.  Her and grandpa took lots of grandkids up to the family reunions and we had a blast.  Especially with the old metal Coleman cooler, filled to the brim with sodas (from the Pop Shoppe).  It was the only time I can remember eating Cheez-its in my childhood  (or Nik-L-Nips wax bottles with colorful sweet liquid inside).  She was such a loving person and not just with her family.  She loved ALL children.  No matter who you were or how she knew you, she became your grandma.  I'm going to miss her, but I'm so happy that grandma and grandpa are reunited.  Grandma, thank you for loving me! Until we meet again.

RISK

Definition:  A game of world domination played by two men that can barely run their lives.

KYLER'S BOOK TIME

Kyler loves to play with this book from a Harry Potter playset we have.  It opens and closes and entertains our four year-old for hours.  Here he's in the van, we've just picked up Colton and are heading to Asher's school.  Colton looks back at his little brother and says "Talk about having your nose in a book!"  I love my boys!

BUT HE'S MY "BIFF"!

Tony, Tony, Tony.....what am I going to do with him! February 7th he went out mountain bike riding with friends as their last training ride before their February 14-15 24 hour relay race. Shortly into the trail, Tony crashed. Since his nickname with the group is "Biff", a crash didn't surprise anyone....until they saw the blood coming down his face. When they got to him to help, his left arm was in a lot of pain. Paramedics were called and took him to Chandler Regional Hospital. After x-rays and CT scans of his head and chest we found out the news. Four, possibly five broken ribs and there was a little air in his chest where it shouldn't be. So, Tony had to be transported by another ambulance to Scottsdale Osborn Hospital - to their trauma center. The next day after more x-rays, they confirmed that he had punctured his lung. After a lovely 3 day, 2 night stay in the hospital, he was able to come home. Hopefully he'll be back at work next week, especially since he is SUPER CRANKY. (can't blame him though!)

SUPERBOWL SUNDAY!

What could be more fun than watching the Superbowl with my family? Watching it with my family AND my brother's family! We had nine kids (ages 4 - 12) running around the Stock house. It was LOUD and FUN with only a little bit of crying and fits....just like any good family get together! Poor Asher was sick and was only allowed to see everyone for these pictures. I mean, COME ON - I WAS SOOOOOO GETTING MY PICTURE! Now my house is quiet and calm......and a mess!