Disney Characters

By far my favorite part of our trip to Disneyland was for the kids to get to meet the different characters. I really wanted Claire to meet some princesses, and was so glad to see that they have a new place where you wait in line and can meet 3 princesses. We got there just as they were changing so Claire got to meet 4. She was very happy. They were very gracious, and so sweet to the kids. They would talk to them, and make them feel so special. Owen was thrilled to meet Mickey Mouse, and Winnie the Pooh. I just love that my kids totally believe that these are the real things. It makes me wish I could be young again, and the smiles on their faces were worth the sore feet, the long lines, and the over priced food. I would do it all again just to make their dreams come true.

Disneyland Day 3

Our final day at Disneyland started out very early. We had heard that in the past the park fills up very early on New Year's Eve, so we were at the park by 7:30, and didn't leave until after 12:00 am. It was a very long day. The good thing about going that early is that there weren't a lot of people yet, so we got to ride quite a few rides. I was determined to take Claire to see the princesses, so we did that in the morning before the wait became crazy. She was in heaven, right along with Owen. We had a great day riding some rides again, and taking it slow. We had a nice lunch at New Orleans Square, and got to visit with quite a few characters. The kids did great, but I was very worried about them making it till midnight. Gratefully we had lots of help, so we rented a third stroller for them to sleep in. Grant woke up in time for the street dance and fireworks, and I'm pretty sure Claire saw the fireworks, but Owen slept right through them. We had a great time ringing in the New Year, and were very happy to get into bed that night. We had a wonderful time at Disneyland - thanks mom and dad for a fantastic vacation. My kids will remember it for a lifetime!

Disneyland Day 2

When I woke up, and looked outside, I knew it wouldn't be the greatest day at Disneyland. I was happy we had decided to go to California Adventures since they have tons of inside shows. We started of at Soaring Over California. I had to stay with Grant so my mom took Claire, and Chad took Owen. Of course, they didn't want to go, but Claire actually loved it, after she told my mom she was going to throw up. After that we went to quite a few shows. The biggest mistake was the Bug's Life show, which had our kids literally bawling by the time it was over. They are big spiders, bees, and basically, it is a little scary. They loved the Aladdin show which was in a huge theatre, and was an actual play. They did a fantastic job on it, and everyone loved it. By far the highlight of the day was going to see Playhouse Disney Live. The kids got to interact with the puppets on the stage, yell, and sing, and have a great time. It was also a great place for them to get to dry off for a little while. We didn't make it to many rides with the weather, so we called it a day, and went back to the hotel to dry off, and have some down time.

Disneyland Day 1

We finally made it to Disneyland, and the kids couldn't have been happier. First of all I have to say that I never in a million years thought that my child would be wearing a leash/backpack. However, I knew that the amount of people in Disneyland, and his sense of exploration, would make it necessary so I felt good about him not being lost. Owen actually did great, and didn't have to wear it that much, but it made me feel good to have it. He had 2 other cousins who had them on too, so he actually thought it was kinda cool.

We had a great first day at Disneyland. Claire was so excited to see the castle, so her Grandpa took her there first - right after our family picture wearing matching shirts. On a side note, my parents didn't have said shirts, and I am still curious why - that picture will be coming soon. We then headed to the carousel - which Grant absolutely loved, and then took them on Mr. Toad's wild Ride. Not a bright idea for our first indoor ride. They both came out not to happy with us, so the rest of the day we had to literally force them onto the rides. I'm sure people thought we were mean, but hey we were in Disneyland, and they weren't going to get this chance again for a long time.

We spent most of the day exploring the little kids rides, with our top favorites as Small World (my favorite because you got to sit for like 10 minutes), The Teacups, and the Carousel. We were ready to go home after watching the Christmas parade, and getting to see the beautiful decorations all lit up. We went back to the hotel where my mom had dinner ready, and then they shooed all the adults back out the door to go back to the park while they watched the kids. It was fun to go without our kids, and I got to go on my favorite ride - Indiana Jones. I loved that all the signs said you shouldn't ride while pregnant, but my midwives gave me the go ahead, so I had some fun. We went on rides we knew the kids would hate like Pirates, Thunder Mountain Railroad, and Splash Mountain - which Chad did not want to go on, but I didn't give him much choice since when you go at night there isn't a line, and we basically walked on. We were the first adults to call it quits, and we so ready for bed that night. You honestly can't deny that there is such a thing as the magic of Disney after spending a whole day in Disneyland.

Christmas Day and our time at Grandma GG's

Christmas day was spent playing the WII, eating more food, and enjoying our family. We had a wonderful turkey dinner, and stuffed ourselves like usual.

The day after Christmas my parents found 3 babysitters to come to the house and watch the kids while we all went out to dinner at a restaurant called Simons in Sacramento. You bring in your wild game, or fowl, in the morning and when you come back in the evening he has it all prepared for you. It was delicious. We had venison and duck, and I have never had it so good. It was also nice to have an adult night out without all the kids and craziness.

The next day Roy, Cody and their family left, plus Heather, Aaron and their 2 kids, so the house became much quieter. We went to church then had a nice relaxing day to recoup before we left the next morning for Disneyland. We decided to stay at Grandma's that night so we put the kids to sleep on the living room floor. I'm not kidding, there was a T.V. going, and people talking through half the night, and our kids were so tired that they fell asleep by 7:00, and didn't wake up until well after 8:00 the next morning. They were so tired, but much happier the next day.

We left Monday morning for Disneyland, with two very excited kids. Claire made up a song that went something like, "I'm going to Disneyland and I'm so excited, yeah, yeah, yeah." They didn't quite understand that we still had a long drive ahead of us, and wouldn't be going to Disneyland that day. They did get to see the fireworks as were getting into our hotel room, so that made them very excited for things to come.

Disneyland Revealed

My parents decided this summer that they were going to take all of us to Disneyland for Christmas. The kids were not to know, and they wouldn't find out until Christmas morning. I was soooo excited for this part of their Christmas morning. My kids have grown to love Disneyland by watching America's Funniest Videos every Sunday. They always flash pictures of the castle, and all the rides, and my kids have decided that is the place to be. My parents gave us all a box, and had us all open them at the same time. The kids didn't really understand what it was, except for a few of the older ones. I finally looked at Clarie and Owen and said, we are going to Disneyland. Claire jumped up, and gave her Grandma and Grandpa a big hug. Owen, cried because he thought we were leaving right them and he wouldn't get to play with his new toys. Once we assured him that wasn't the case, he was very happy. Grant didn't know what was going on, but he was happy to shake his candy filled candy cane, and enjoy the chaos. Heather made these cute Minnie Mouse bows, and gave them to all the girls, Claire can hardly wait to wear hers.

He Came!!

Claire and Owen were very concerned that Santa wouldn't be able to find us at Grandma GG's. They actually cried at our house when I took the Christmas tree down the day before we left. I honestly didn't want to come home to the mess. Owen felt better after he called Grandma GG, and made sure she had a tree. So, they were very happy to see that Santa found them on Christmas morning. We had to drive over to Grandma's house, so we got there, to find everyone waiting for us. We let the kids loose, and there was wrapping paper everywhere. Claire got a new Barbie and a Barbie house, Owen got a jumping race car and some tools. Grant got a new blanket and a train so he could play with Owen. Santa also brought our family a WII, which everyone was excited about, and a few games for each of us to play. We had a wonderful Christmas morning, and as always I had so much fun seeing the joy in my children's faces. It makes the craziness of the holidays all worth it.

Christmas Eve

The day before Christmas Eve, we headed out to California to go to Grandma GG's. I can't tell you how excited the kids were. They were very helpful in helping me pack, and get everything ready. Chad and I (OK, mostly me), decided that we would get up at 4:00 a.m., and leave as soon as we could. We had the car all packed, we just had to throw in a few things, plus the kids, and off we went. I am soooo glad that we left that early because the kids slept through the worst roads, and didn't wake up for about 4 hours. It was so much easier to travel all day that way. We were so happy to get to Grandma's by 4:00, and have dinner, and then find a bed. We ended up staying at a ladies house, who has a loft above her garage, so Roy, Cody and their 6 kids, plus my family all stayed there. It was very nice, and the kids were so excited to have a sleep over with their cousins every night.

Christmas eve was filled with homemade doughnuts, lots of family, and food. My mom made the best prime rib, which Chad was very happy to eat to his hearts content. My whole family came down, so there were 21 of us, plus some of my cousins, and my Uncle Jim, Aunt Karen, and Uncle Rod. We had so much fun talking, but were ready to get to bed that night so we could get ready for Santa to come.

Good-bye Shana!

I am sad to report that my good friend Shana is moving. She is happy because she is moving back to Arizona, which she loves. We actually met in college, and ended up in the same town with quite a few of our old roommates, buddies. Occasionally we get together, and enjoy a late night chat and desert. We will all be sad to see her leave, but lets keep getting together girls, we always have so much fun!

Shana, Julie, Natalie and me

Christmas Eve, Eve, Eve

Before we left for California, we decided to open our presents from Chad's family, and give the kids a present from us. The less we had to pack, the better. The kids had a great time opening presents and were thrilled to get new clothes from Grandma and Grandpa, and a new sleeping bag from mom and dad. We decided that they would need a sleeping bag to sleep in during the trip, so it was a dual purpose gift. Grant could have cared less about anything, but I think he was happy to be in on the craziness!

Merry Christmas!!

We wanted to wish each of you a very Merry Christmas. We are on our way out of town for a Christmas Vacation that will not be forgotten for a long time. I know I didn't Christmas cards out again, but I will be getting something out after the New Year. There just doesn't seem to be enough time in the day anymore. I have enjoyed getting all of your cards, and I hope you all have a wonderful holiday season with family and friends. Merry Christmas!!

Clayson Family Christmas Party

On Saturday we had our annual Clayson Family Christmas party. It is always lots of fun. After our yummy dinner Santa made an appearance. I love this stage because the kids get so excited whenever they see Santa, except for Grant, he still thinks he is very scary! He was nice enough to bring them a coloring book, which was perfect for each of them. Next we played the left and right game, with a bunch of kids. Not highly recommended but, very funny. Finally the kids were able to open some presents, and were so excited. Claire told me, "these gifts are perfect for me." She got a couple ponies and some lip gloss. Owen got a Nerf gun, which has already caused havoc at our house, but so much fun for him. We look forward to the party next year!

Little Lamb

This year Claire started dancing with a new teacher, and I couldn't be happier. She is fantastic, and has a small company, so the recital isn't hours long. She has a dance studio in her house, and only has about 8 girls per class. Claire is lucky to be taking the class with two of her friends from our ward and from school - Cossette and Elise. It makes carpooling very nice when you only have to do it every few weeks. Her Christmas recital was to a Christmas song to Garth Brook called Mary Had a Little Lamb. The girls did a great job. Claire didn't quite understand what was going on during dress rehearsal, and only cried once. Once she got away from me and on stage, she did great! She definitely has lots of energy, and knew the dance pretty well. I was so proud of her.

My Snow Removal Workers

I thought this picture was priceless. One Sunday we got a lot of snow, and Chad's favorite job was available - shoveling snow. Owen loves to help shovel snow, so he jumped in to help. Chad had to go back to a meeting at church, so he put his boots on with his suit. I was laughing so hard, but am grateful that I didn't have to do it!

Gingerbread Houses

As per tradition with the Claysons we did our Gingerbread houses right after Thanksgiving. In fact we did them the day after. The kids always look forward to this tradition, and they have so much fun. Our house actually did not fall once this year, and it is in fact still intact. It is a Christmas miracle. I think Owen ate way more candy then he put on the house, but Claire did great, and had so much fun. It is always fun to see what we create, and watch the kids have so much fun.

Thanksgiving with the Clayson's

We spent Thanksgiving with Chad's family this year in Firth. As always there was PLENTY of food, and lots of fun. The kids love playing with all their cousins. Owen had so much fun playing with Colton this year. Those two are going to be good friends. I decided to stay the night with the kids so that I could get up at 3:30 and go shopping with the girls. We had lots of fun, and got some great deals. I am proud to say that I didn't buy anything I didn't need. I also had the pleasure of sleeping in the same room with the 7 oldest cousins. The oldest is only 6, so I was awake most of the time taking someone to the bathroom, or putting someone back to bed. The kids were great though. Thankfully I was able to take a 4 hour nap later the next day, so I got caught up on my sleep. We had a great Thanksgiving and as always look forward to the next holiday!

Owen's Thanksgiving Feast

Every year in preschool we have a big Thanksgiving feast. We invite all the parents, and practice, practice, practice for our presentation. The kids get so excited, but none so excited as Owen. He talked about it for days, and was so happy the morning of his feast. He helped me get all set up, and then was so happy when his dad came to help him with the activities, and eat lunch with him. He did a great job at his part, and was very proud of his potato turkey. He is so much fun to watch, and doesn't have a shy bone in his body. We are so proud of you Owen!

Mom, I'm hungry!

The other day Owen tells me that he is hungry. I asked him what he wanted, and he looks at me, puts his finger to his face, and says, "hmm, let me see." So funny. He couldn't decide, so I left to go do something, and he comes running in to find me with a whole thing of butter. He takes one out, and tells me that is what he wants. I know the kid likes butter, but really that much?? Probably not. He was very serious, but we had to go on the search for something a little better for him.

Meeting Santa Claus

Claire and Owen were so excited to meet Santa this year. Owen did so much better, but don't worry Grant took over his spot as the screamer, so we will be ok. Claire ran up there as quick as she could, and apparently asked Santa for a flying horse - that is news to me. Owen asked for a jumping race car, which Santa is happy to say he finally figured out what that was! Grant didn't think Santa was to great, but he allowed me one quick picture. The kids are so excited for Christmas this year, and it is so contageous. I love hearing them talk about it, but I love how much they Believe, which makes Christmas so much fun.

I'm Back!!

I am sorry that I haven't posted in awhile, I just needed lots of naps, which is my usual blogging time, and then in the evening I was seriously going to bed at 8:00. I think I drove Chad crazy, and I think he was sick of chicken nuggest and mac and cheese. I was also busy working at ISU in the ticket office. I am happy to say that we are all done with football of any kind and now I will only work a couple times a month during basketball season. We have been busy regardless, and I am working on getting the pictures all organized. I am noticing that the quality of my pictures is going downhill, so I am hoping for a new camera for Christmas. We are all alive and doing well, and keep checking back for the next couple of days, I will try very had to catch everything up.

Mr. Grant

Grant seriously cracks us up. In the last month, he has really changed, and is so much fun to be around. He is finally holding his own around Claire and Owen. Whenever they do something that he doesn't like, or take something away from him, he basically yells at them. I should worry that my one year old is yelling, but hey he has to hold his own around here. He is also learning new words, and cracking us up. About a month ago, he picked up one of Claire's ponies, turned it around in his hands and said "cow, moo." Chad and I just looked at each other stunned. I guess it could be due to the fact that his favorite all time show is Baby McDonald, but that might just be a coincidence. He loves to wrestle with his dad and Owen, and seriously loves chicken nuggets. Go figure. He is starting to try to walk a little bit, but seriously has no desire to try anytime soon. He is almost all the way off of his bottle, and finally takes a great nap during the day, and goes to bed at a decent hour. He loves to "shake it," and is beginning to love The Wiggles, thanks to Owen deciding that he loved them again - go figure. He has learned to go up and down the stairs, but still sometimes tries to go down head first, we are working hard on that one. He loves to put things away, except for the silverware in the dishwasher, which he just loves to throw all over the floor.
He has discovered his nose, and especially likes to explore that part of himself during mealtime. It is actually quite funny.
One day he was being soooo quiet. You moms all know how worried that can make you. I went exploring and that morning on my way to church I dropped some snack mix on the ground, and in our hurry to leave I hadn't cleaned it up yet. Luckily Grant was helping me, and was cleaning it up all by himself by eating it all. I'm sure he thought that he found the perfect place to eat it at, where no one would bother him.