The Tripps

Christmas Money

2010-01-02T20:49:00.000-08:00

Grandpa Jerry sent the kids money for Christmas.

They were excited to choose their own presents.

Jaiden chose Headbands

Carter chose a new WII remote

December Fun

2009-12-30T21:14:00.000-08:00

Dinner at Mayan - the kids favorite but not the parents

Jaiden showing off her new (fake) glasses.

Carter playing a shepherd at the Bishop Christmas party.

Alvin and the Chipmunk movie.

Sledding

2009-12-29T21:28:00.000-08:00

Christmas Eve at Jones

2009-12-24T21:39:00.000-08:00

Jaiden read the Christmas Story while the other kids placed the characters into the stable.

Let the presents begin -

WOW! Princess stickers

Jaiden with perfect pose

Savanna unloading her stocking loot

Madison concentrating on opening

Aunt Mel

Aunt Kim and baby Easton

Gang present opening for baby Easton

Madison inspecting present

Presents must be put in bag going home immediately

Just what Carter wanted!

Thanking Uncle Chris for presents

Group opening of Aunt Kimmys present

Just what she wanted!

Madison always a helper whether it is wanted or not

Madison again helping

Our own radio?

Madison again putting stuff away to take home

Painfully waiting for their turn to open presents

Nana crawled around with her cast

Goof ball!

Making cookies for Santa

Just a little!

Have some cookies with your Sprinkles

Look at those PJs

Pictures and Notes

2009-12-16T20:56:00.000-08:00

Jaiden's letter to Santa 2009

Pictures Jaiden drew for parents

I like that she put money in my purse :)

Carters notes to mom and dad

4 Wheeler Fun

2009-12-13T20:42:00.000-08:00

Aiden and Carter - ready to go

Carter in sled

Taking turns

Madison is the driver

Brinlee and Jaiden

Madison loves to eat snow. We have tried to teach her not to eat yellow snow.

Christmas Countdown

2009-12-09T20:38:00.000-08:00

Found this countdown calendar ripped to shreds and eaten all gone.

Who did this? Madison raises her hand and says, "I did."

Christmas Decor

2009-12-01T21:35:00.000-08:00

Kids love getting out the christmas decorations and are always sad when they have to be taken down.

Last Day - Magic Kingdom

2009-11-21T08:06:00.000-08:00

Proof he can be a nice brother and does love his sister. I think this was on our way to the park. Its been a fun but long week.

We had the pleasure of the Snow White ride breaking down :(

However we got to walk through the ride which is unique :)

All the kids love "Its a Small World"

Take note of Madison's smile?

The castle was sooooo beautiful at night with all the lights.

I swear they have drugs hidden in the churros because they are addicting.

No other churro compares.

Playing in the "Winnie the Pooh" playground

Madison making friends as always

Carter making fun of me wanting to take a picture - notice his face

Jaiden is hiding from me - she doesn't want her picture taken

Not happy that I found her

Not sure what she is doing?

Final visit to Mickey Mouse house right before closing

Carter is telling me that Mickey Mouse has been there because there is a slice of cheese missing

Final night in Florida and Madison is making a tower with all her Disney gear

HollyWood Studios

2009-11-20T09:08:00.000-08:00

Jaiden was pulled up during the performance.

I would think she would love it but she seemed really embarrassed.

Indiana Jones is always a favorite.

Except for Madison

Carter like to watch the Star Wars show but likes to keep his difference

Car show was good as always - Carter likes to replicate with his remote control cars at home

Carter thought this snowman was awesome

Playhouse Disney - Fun

Party

Everyone is tired - time to go back to Condo

Jaiden loved AeroSmith roller coaster. She rode it 8 times in a row. Jason and I both rode it twice with her and that was all we could handle and then we waited at the exit while she rode solo.

Day off - Swimming and Downtown Disney

2009-11-19T10:10:00.000-08:00

Pool Games :)

Limbo

Splash War

Jaiden won :)

Free Ice cream

Carter adding a heart with love

Rexy getting his first bath

Good thing Daddy has dressed babies so he can give Carter a hand

That smile is priceless

Downtown Disney - Lego Store

Dinner with Chef Mickey

2009-11-18T10:59:00.000-08:00

Clearwater, Florida

2009-11-17T20:06:00.000-08:00

Before starting the Disney race we spent a day at the beach. We love Clearwater. Amazing sand and a playground right off the beach is always a winner for our family. Before playing in the water and sand, I required everyone to pose for family pictures. There were lots of complaints but I think they turned out pretty good and are unique since we don't have the ocean in Utah.

We love the sand - it feels like flour

Good sand castle buddy - even with your sisters "help" :)

Proof he does love his mom

The seagulls were aggressive and it was fun

Everyone like the seagulls but Jason. The fun was throwing food in his direction so the seagulls would attack.

Jaiden wanted to try the trampolines and I couldn't let her have all the fun.

A lot harder to flip than you think. My stomach muscles felt it the next day :)

Look alike "Captain Jack" that loved to get his picture taken

Madison did not like "Captain Jack" - she wouldn't take her eyes off him

Best decision ever - the braids stayed in all week and kept their hair out of their eyes and face while riding rides and swimming

This nice lady mailed Nana's camera to her or we would not have any of the above pictures. Thank heavens for nice people.

Other memories from Clearwater - Jason's parking ticket :)

Orlando here we come ...

2009-11-16T22:29:00.000-08:00

Take note of the "death grip" on dad's hand.

Oh - ya!!!

Disney on Ice with Miyasaki

2009-11-11T19:56:00.000-08:00

Jaiden and Madison got to go to Disney on Ice with their cousins.

Trick or Treat

2009-11-01T12:44:00.000-08:00

Wait - I thought Madison was Ariel. Yes she decided to have a costume change before going out to Trick or Treat.

Jaiden got a special treat in her bag - Cooper

The Race is on.

The Beehive

2009-10-31T22:10:00.000-07:00

We found a huge beehive in the back tree at Nana and Pa's. It needed to come down :)
Mel tries to climb the tree

Then Jaiden tries

The boys try and knock it down with a ball and spear

Bringing out the big guns - the old ladder

Jaiden tried the ladder first - as you can see Carter thinks she is crazy

Fore-man hard at work, but doesn't want his picture taken

Jenn decides to show how it is done - ladder and spear

It comes down :)

Pumpkins

2009-10-31T21:36:00.000-07:00

Cutting, cleaning, and carving

Finished Product

Halloween Party @ Nana's

2009-10-31T20:30:00.000-07:00

Candy games :)

Oh, baby Easton

Musical tombstones - Madison, Jaiden, Savanna, Carter and Aunt Mel

Walk like a zombie - or try to

Jaiden - No pushing

Carter taking cover while Aunt Mel celebrates in front of Jaiden

The duel - one on one

Around and around they go - Carter can't stop laughing

Playing in the leaves

2009-10-31T13:03:00.000-07:00

At Nana and Pa's we played in the leaves together.

Savanna and Madison

Pa, Savanna, and Madison

Carter

Where is Madison?

Where is Carter?

I have leaves in my nose.

Where are the kids?

Jaiden the leaf raker :)

Even Jason and Mel got in on the action

Carter's face says it all

Mel started it but you knew Jason would end it

Halloween at School

2009-10-29T10:37:00.000-07:00

Madison at Nana's preschoolParade at Elementary

Jaiden

Mrs. Johnson - Third Grade

Carter

Mrs. Slack - Kindergarten

Brin

Luke

Sam Lyon

Hannah, Ellie, Lauren, and Jaiden

Madison, Carter and Aiden

Carter and Grace

1st Major Snow

2009-10-26T10:33:00.000-07:00

My own photo shoot :)

2009-10-26T09:57:00.000-07:00

I was tending baby Easton and decided to strip him down and take pictures before his mom came back. He was so little and it was so fun to just pretend to know what I was doing.

Notice the "hovering" - recognize the hair

Halloween Party @ Granny's

2009-10-25T09:33:00.000-07:00

Cousin Gang

Go-go dancer, Obe One Kenobi, and Ariel

Loved the tail on the costume

The boyz

Bumble Bee and Lady Bug

"You will take a picture with me"

Love the hair

Aunt Marilyn and David - with our special presents

Cookie decorating

Jaiden and Grandma Great

Cheese :)

Blonde side-burns?

Crazy Hair Day

2009-10-22T09:30:00.000-07:00

Baby Easton

2009-10-20T09:20:00.000-07:00

Boys Night

2009-10-17T09:02:00.000-07:00

Jason promised Carter they would sleep out in the backyard. Of course Carter held him to his promise - boys night out. Fun times including dad's airmatress going flat in the middle of the night.

Pumpkin Patch

2009-10-17T08:44:00.000-07:00

We had our annual pumpkin patch visit with the Jacksons.

Carter and Jason

Ethan

Luke taking a fall

Jaiden trying to hide from the camera

Luke found one

Aaron and Jason talking business :)

Lori and Luke

The kids - minus Madison

Madison's participation in pumkin picking

Mom exsists :) and Jaiden is happy

Devil boy

Madison

2009-10-16T09:15:00.000-07:00

Loves her panties and ding-dongs ("dongs")

Madison's "ABC" shirt. She doesn't understand what it says but she sees all the letters and loves it.

Welcome Home

2009-10-11T08:31:00.000-07:00

Uncle Adam helped us out by tending while we were on vacation is Las Vegas. The kids seemed to have fun - maybe too much fun :) They were cute and made a "welcome home" sign - thanks Jaiden.

Sick of Sickness

2009-10-04T20:16:00.000-07:00

First started with Carter and stomach flu on Sunday and then again on Wednesday.

Then Madison on Tuesday with "hand, foot and mouth" virus = 20+ canker sores in her mouth. She won't eat, drink or sleep.

Daddy is the king of antibacterial trying to not get the sickness.

To bad Jason and I still ended up with stomach flu this weekend.
We will see if Jaiden can hold strong.

Jaiden Fall Soccer

2009-09-30T21:07:00.000-07:00

Jaiden is playing on a team with a bunch of neighbor girls she has played with the last 3 years. Unfortunately they were moved up to the larger fields this year and they have been getting their butts kicks. Not to mention there is only one boy on their team. Not sure if she will play next year - she seems to not really be into it and she says its because she is afraid of the ball. She does try really hard. Time will tell.

Can't see her but she is there :)

Zing, Zang, Zoom

2009-09-25T19:26:00.000-07:00

We finally took the kids to the circus. Before we ate at Biaggi's - delicious and then headed into the Apple Store, by the fountains and crossed the street for the show. We weren't sure what to expect being Jason and I have not been to the circus since we were kids. Everyone loved it (except it was 21/2 hours long) and they all keep talking about it. Madison included.

New Tricks

2009-09-25T19:23:00.000-07:00

Very tricky Madison.

Miyan and Real Soccer

2009-09-24T12:15:00.000-07:00

Dress Up Time

2009-09-22T15:48:00.000-07:00

Madison has begun the dress-up era of growing up. She doesn't like to wear just the princess dresses and become a character. She has to choose several different combinations and wear them together. I think she heard fall fashion is all about layers :)

This is one of her favorite combinations that she wears everwhere!!!

Cousin Craziness

2009-09-16T15:35:00.000-07:00

We love our cousins. Kamie and Clarke headed off to Lake Powell for some vacation time and we got to have the girls stay with us. Kaia loves animals and with her visit the poor guinea pig kept disappearing out of his cage. She would just take him and sit in a corner enjoying the animal.

I love this girl because she make me feel like my kids craziness is normal.

Poor Mariko was a trooper - she has the stomach flu and never complained. She slept most of the first day and when she would throw-up she would just softly call "aunt Jenn" and ask for a wipe. Poor girl, but I think Kamie was the one having stress by not being home while her baby was sick. Mariko was a rock.

Madison getting in on the soccer action

2009-09-16T15:24:00.000-07:00

Mini person drama

Carter Soccer - 1st game

2009-09-16T15:06:00.000-07:00

Carter started fall soccer. Take note of the basketball shorts instead of soccer shorts. As always Carter struggles with change, but at least he has his jersey on. We will still work on wearing soccer shorts to his game.
It was amazing - he jumped right in there and went crazy.

The light went on and he really gets the game - defense and everything.

What a difference from last year - no crying on the field this year.

Some of his best teammates - Cameron, Logan, and Grace

He was also totally into listening to his coach and following directions.

Library Card

2009-09-15T14:47:00.000-07:00

Drama.

Jaiden just got her own library card. Right of passage??? No just didn't want to pay all the fines that are stacked up on dad's card. We will work on paying those off :) I think going to blockbuster and purchase books would be cheaper.

Swimming Pool Fun

2009-09-12T14:27:00.000-07:00

We love having a neighborhood pool. All the benefits but none of the work. Our kids are always confused when other friends don't have pools. They are spoiled and go swimming 3-5 times a week during the summer.Madison is a no fear swimmer. Therefore she must keep her floaties on at all times for mom's peace of mind.
Some how a wrestling match always happens in the pool.

Carter has really come out of his shell in the pool. Last year he would cry and be scared. This year he is swimming the full length of the deep.

Dad enjoying pool time.

He swims every where now - makes me a little nervous.

Carter even jumps into the deep end and touches the bottom.

Jaiden has always been a wild woman in the pool.

Trick Time

2009-09-10T14:03:00.000-07:00

Madison is always saying, "watch me!"

She does a great somersault.

Jaiden couldn't be out-shinned by her 2 year old sister.

Uintas with Nana & Pa

2009-09-08T19:40:00.000-07:00

We camped in the Unitas over Labor Day Weekend with Nana and Pa in the trailer. We couldn't believe the climate change. We went from roasting hot in the valley to needing a fire all day long to keep warm. The kids always love camping and we are lucky to have the luxury to sleep in the trailer instead of tents - thanks Nana & Pa Carter and Madison enjoying the tradition of hot chocolate and bacon for breakfast.

Pa enjoying his hot chocolate by the fire.

Madison showing her hanging skills from the handle.

A competitive game of dominoes. We were all shocked when Madison would just join in and place her domino in the correct place. I guess she has skills in matching?

Brother is usually cautious and looks out for his little sister

Jaiden is never far away and willing to help too. She was sent to be the oldest of the group and does a wonderful job as "big sis."

Pa stepping in to help back up the hill.

Madison loves her Pa.

Carter did not like the climb and was doubting his dad's lead.

Finally with some coaching he makes it up the climb.

Jason went even higher up the water fall.

Family pic to prove Mom was present.

Hide and go seek with Nana

There you are - and Nana is playing along as always

Jason's new toy and first time out

Long ride = sleeping Madison.

Rain, rain go away

Rain does not stop marshmallow roasting

BB gun shooting range

Love the dirt acquired while camping

Dirt even in the eyes

We camped by the overlook at bald mountain - the kids thought it was cool that they could see the trailer and yell to mom from the cliff.

Carter loves his "brewskies" - thanks daddy

Madison still calls them root beer.

Jaiden enjoying our nature hike :)

Nana was in full preschool form by collecting triangle, circle, square, rectangle items.

Madison - that rock is too big to take back to camp

Fishing is a favorite for Carter

Pa is our MacGyver - he can fix anything.

Taking in the sites of Mirror Lake.

Jaiden is in the stage of hiding from the camera.

Goin' for a walk with PA

We found a chipmunk.

Never been this close before - Pa kept saying it was going to jump on my head.

Love this sight.

Good big brother.

Good morning cuddle.

Our fearless hunters.

Geek - dad strikes a pose when he sees the camera.

Carter wouldn't sit on back but Madison wanted to sit back there.

Jaiden - she reminds me of myself at her age on a 4-wheeler to big for her britches

Madison held on tight - such a little dare devil.

Madison strikes again ...

2009-09-01T18:52:00.000-07:00

Good thing that smile is so cute. Walking into the kitchen with a full container of kool-aid all over the floor. Not to mention I had just cleaned all the floors with the steamer :)

I could either laugh or cry but I decided to pull out the camera.

Dad is trying to clean up the mess as fast as her can - good daddy.

Madison decided to join the ranks and cut her own hair. She has brought me the scissors and I was concerned what she was using them for. I ran upstairs behind her and she showed me her dolls new haircut. I told her that only mommies cut your hair. She looked at me concerned and said "I the babies mommy." Hard to ague with. I put the scissors away and thought we were done. Nope she got them out again and decided to give her bangs a trim.

Full container of kool-aid again all over the floor. This time the trail goes all the way down the hall to the linen closet. "I sorry mommy I got towel to clean up" unfortunately she carried the container with her while getting that towel. Hey she tried right?? Yes I have tried to bungie the fridge shut but she just figures it out and they don't make fridge locks for side by sides.

The pictures don't do justice.

Smarter than a two year old?

2009-08-31T19:03:00.000-07:00

The other day I found Madison putting on a diaper by herself.

1st spread the diaper on bike

2nd sit on diaper carefully

3rd wrap the diaper around your waist (watch out for binky hanging down - put in mouth before continuing)

4th connect tabs

Tah-dah!!! All by myself

Cute Kids

2009-08-30T19:01:00.000-07:00

The other day I went to cleanup lunch and found a tip sitting on the table. Either they are too cute or we eat out to much. I am going with the first.

Easton

2009-08-28T18:57:00.000-07:00

We love "baby Easton" he is a fellow dance teachers son and we help tend him while she teaches. The kids love him. Carter keeps asking why we can't just keep him? Madison always says she wants to visit "baby Easton." The last time he got dropped off Madison yelled, "baby Easton is home!" To bad he is scared of her because she is always trying to mother him to death.

Bondocks with Allegiance

2009-08-25T12:34:00.000-07:00

Jason's work had their annual summer party at Bondocks this year.

The kids loved it - thanks Allegiance.

Daddy and Carter taking a spin

Madison crying because she is not tall enough to ride the cars. Should have worn her plat form flip-flops. - a must for Disneyland.

Jaiden and Jonah waiting in line for the race cars.

Carter giving Madison a ride on the "swinging thing"

Carter giving Chase a ride - always such a help with those younger than him

Carter's turn

Air hockey just her size. Look it comes out right there.

Jason and Adam playing hoops

Skee ball - a favorite

Madison will drive and mom does the gas

Shoot'em boys

"Double trouble"

Bees Game

2009-08-23T12:23:00.000-07:00

Daddy got us tickets for the last bees game with fireworks. As always it was really fun. However this time it was extremely busy and the food lines were crazy long. Never fun to stand in line instead of watching the game :( Densley's happened to be there the same night so we went over and visited before fireworks. Madison did have a slight melt down when the fireworks started but then recovered as she realized they were high in the sky. Then she named all the colors, blue, purple, red. We had a great time as a family.

After the game and fireworks they allow the kids to run the bases.

This is always a favorite for the kids.

Madison

2009-08-22T12:17:00.000-07:00

Came around the corner to head upstairs and had a welcomed sight of Madison. Except she was on the wrong side of the railing. What 2 year old girl does this?

Only a small fall the the ground :( - no fear

Madison did you get into the powdered donuts?

YOU KEEP LIFE INTERESTING - WE LOVE YOU

Lagoon

2009-08-17T11:19:00.000-07:00

We went to our HOA lagoon day as a family. It started in the afternoon with Lagoon-a-beach. I took Carter and Jaiden and left Madison home with Nana thinking it would be the best since she is still pretty little. To my surprise (not) Carter wouldn't go on any water slides except the kiddie area and the lazy river. Madison could have easily joined Carter and I and she would have loved the slides. Late afternoon we met Nana, Madison, Kim, Savannah, and Daddy for dinner and rides. We started out slow (at least we thought :) with the "dino drop" but as you can see from the pics Carter did not enjoy himself. Needless to say he stayed with Nana, Kim, Madison and Savanna in the kiddie area. (Camera stayed with Nana too :)

Mom and Madison waiting for take off.

I am laughing uncontrollably due to the screaming from Carter and Jason trying to calm him down from the seat next to me.

Carter literally stopped foot traffic around the ride. People must have thought by the screams that some girls was getting her legs cut off - nope just a 5 year old boy scared for his life.

Alligator tears show it all.

Lauren (neighbor friend) and Jaiden

Amy and Brinlee Mackay

All smiles on kiddie rides

Madison and Savanna

"Nutters"

2009-08-10T13:28:00.000-07:00

We needed to document Carter's favorite stuff animal - his squirel "nutters".

I cannot count the number of times I have looked for this .... animal.

Bath Time Fun

2009-08-09T13:14:00.000-07:00

This is the Place Heritage Park

2009-08-08T14:34:00.000-07:00

We finally had a free weekend to spend as a family with no plans of being out of town. We have always wanted to take the kids to "Heritage Park" and it was cooler weather for August so we decided to go for it. This family pic was taken after 6 hours at the park and no nap - look at Madison I think she is done.

Beautiful Day!!!

Flying on an eagle - nice face Carter.

We visited several "pioneer" homes and each had an activity to teach or do.

There is a first and last time for everything - It was a great experience to have the kids see how clothes and items were cleaned before machines.

Playing around with the toys.

Madison and Carter listening to the explianation of sheering.

Each person had an optional 3 activities per entrance fee. The kids of course choose to ride the horses for one of their activities.

Love Jaiden's face - that is a real smile, she is laughing because her horse is trying to leave or go the wrong way.

I was nervous because they didn't have any ropes or seat belts around the kids and these were horses farther off the ground than a simple pony. Madison held on great.

The worker gave Carter her hat and told him to be a cowboy.

Petting Zoo - mom and dads favorite :)

Madison loved this baby goat.

She was concerned and kept pointing to a bigger black goat telling him to go to his mommy.

She finally forcefully (atleast not by the neck) pushed the baby goat towards the "mommy."

Madison still trying to direct the goat to its "mommy."

See there is your mommy - no you need to stay by your mommy.

Jaiden bugging her dad - looks like a hug but she is raelly harassing him.

Carter loving the bunnies.

Oink, oink, oink.

REAL blacksmiths - Carter thought this was Awsome.

We watched them produce a flower out of a nail. Amazing.

Making marbles out of clay.

Searching for "indian" beads to make bracelets.

Carter was proud of his walking stick.

Indian village

All the kids received arrow head necklaces.

Smashing corn into flour.

SMILE

Try again this time with your eyes open

NOPE.

Arrow head necklace - COOL

Stop everything I see a bee.

Mountain man showing how to melt metal and make bullets

This is a facial I see often - love you sweets.

Shoot out at the top of main street at the bank - robbers never win.

Madison of course was scared for her life and started screaming.

Making leather decor

School time games

Face Painting

Tug of war

Carter was holding on so tight the other side started to pull him even though he was on the ground. Fun to watch.

Egg Toss

WINNERS

Sack Races

WINNER

Madison wanted to try

Jump, jump, jump

Go girl go.

Not sure what that finger is doing but she makes that face with open mouth when she doesn't like what someone is doing - I will keep trying to capture on film

Long Day - "I tired, time sleep"

Heading out of the park

Making the exit out down main street.

Educational and fun - highly recommend.

Glad Nana and Pa could come along.

Thanks Jason ...

2009-08-07T09:11:00.000-07:00

Jason shared the Thriller video with our kids in memory of Michael Jackson. Now they won't sleep through the night. - Thanks Jason.

Jason also spent some quality time with the kids watching Storm Chasers. Now the kids are extremely frightened of wind and storms - Thanks Jason.

Just yesterday it was extremely windy and Carter was screaming and crying by the time he got in the house from school. He was totally freakin' out because he saw shingles coming off our roof and thought our roof was going fly off. Of course Jason's response later that evening was - "why don't I give you a video camera and you can chase the twister kid" and "Why don't you guys go get your skates on and I will give you a jacket or blanket and you can use it as a sail and see how fast you can go" - teasing, teasing, all the time. I feel bad for his sisters having to grow up with him.

We love you daddy!!!!!

Potty Training?

2009-08-05T09:31:00.000-07:00

How do you know it is time to potty train? When you 2.5 year old keeps taking her diaper off and going potty on the toilet. Or crossing her legs to hold her "peepee" while having a diaper on.

We keep finding Madison walking around the house without a diaper - just bare buns staring at you. Not to mention they are white and the rest of her is extremely tan. We also keep finding dry diapers in the bathrooms.

A week ago she even went "poop" in the toilet. Carter was with her and I am not sure who was more excited Madison or Carter. It was really cute to see her big brother so excited for her.

Well I finally broke down and bought training panties for her. The next morning the first thing she asked for was panties. She went potty on the toilet then we put on the panties. About an hour later she came to me and said, "I need potty." I told her to go and she ran down the hall. Carter and I followed and she went peepy and poop. She kept saying, "no peepy panties, run down leg and get on floor." Yep that's right.

It has been four days and only 2 accidents (in the bathroom - waited to long and couldn't get on toilet quick enough)

When home she is very independent and doesn't tell me when she needs to go potty she just heads into the bathroom herself. Least to say our toilet paper costs are going to equal out not buying diapers.

Another positive is she didn't decide to wear panties on Halloween like her older sister. (Jaiden)

We will see how the rest of the week goes.

Carter Comments ...

2009-08-04T21:26:00.000-07:00

Jason had to go over to the stake center to fill the font for Jaiden's baptism. Carter wanted to go with and as Jason was starting the water Carter asked, "Is the Prophet OK with us doing this?"

After discussing a story about Jesus and the cross Carter said, "Jesus struggled."

After a rain storm I heard Carter talking outside saying, "here's a worm, look here's a another worm" when he came inside I asked who he was saying that to and he said, "the birdies -- I was pointing out the worms to the birds"

Carter asked Jason, "If I get really tan will I still be a white person?"

Jason and Carter were driving and saw some lost ducks in the road and Carter's response was, "Oh so sad lost ducks, oooohhhhh so sad -- can we run them over?"

Carter's First Day of School

2009-08-04T12:39:00.000-07:00

Carter had his first day of school at the "big school" (kindergarten). He did great. He woke up this morning and said he was happy to go to school. That was a surprise because just a day ago he was throwing a fit saying he wasn't going. We worked on his homework and it made him excited for school. Grace and Cameron picked him up and we all walked down to the school. He was a goof ball at the school while taking pictures, as you can see. He lined up when the bell rang and was smiling and waiving bye. It was sad to see him go but I was happy for him to start this next chapter of life. Madison cried when we left and started walking home. She is going to miss her "brodder".

Give it up

2009-08-02T12:53:00.000-07:00

How do you know when it is time to give up your favorite seat???? When your legs get distorted when hanging out the bottom and your head goes past the top. Madison you are too big for the high chair! But she likes it on the floor with the tray to watch her shows while snacking.

Cabin over July 24th

2009-07-26T13:13:00.000-07:00

Starting the Holiday weekend out "Tripp Luck" style. On our way to Island Park our back window was shattered by a semi-truck loosing something off his trailer. No replacement glass available in Idaho until Monday due to the holiday weekend. Luckily we had a tarp with us and broke out the remainder of the glass and shut the tarp in the tailgate to hold. It actually did very well especially since it rained and we had to drive home with the tarp too. We were lucky it only broke the window and no one was hurt. "Let's get it started"

How many people can you fit in the cabin? It was fun and the kids loved it.

Tripps (5), Granny & Pa, Grandma Great, Hamiltons (6), Miyasakis (4), Hills (2) and 3 dogs

Jason and Jenn makin' smores

Carter and Jenn eating smores

Jason chillin'

Madison, Daddy, Carter

Madison, Jaiden, Mariko, Carter, Nate, Kaia, Conner (Austin???)

Madison and Kaia enjoying Barney, Mickey Mouse and Elmo

Mariko and Carter (be nice Carter)

Kaia and her little mother - Madison

Mom and Madison enjoying the shade

Jennie, Grace and Jaiden

Jason took a full crew out for fishing - filling Grandpa Great's role (what a good/patient guy)

Proud moment fishing - even caught one over the weekend (no camera)

Check out those sticks (legs)

First Day in 3rd grade

2009-07-26T13:06:00.000-07:00

Jaiden just started 3rd grade with Mrs. Johnson. She is lucky to have so many friends to walk and attend class with.

Ellie, Jaiden, Hannah, and Lauren (The girl crew)

Ellie is back from their other classes - yeh!

Normal Life

2009-07-19T12:48:00.000-07:00

Just a few random pictures of the Tripp's normal life ...

My boys grilling dinner and chatting about life

My girls hanging at the table doing crafts.

Love this smile.

Only his dad can fill this role to make Carter laugh like above

Alarm Needed?

2009-07-15T12:52:00.000-07:00

The other night was not the most restful nights sleep. Jaiden has been having problems with sleeping ever since I got home from YW camp. She cries and gets upset and one night to the point of throwing-up (yes regressing to when she was a year old). She tries to sleep in our room but we know if we give in once it will never end. We give her the option to sleep in her brothers room in the bunk beds. She still wasn't happy and was coming in 5-7 times a night.

Finally one night I heard her walking around the house and then she came in our room. I could tell the wasn't fully awake and took her back to bed. Then Madison woke up crying about every hour for really no reason - she also wasn't fully awake. During one of my breaks from Madison I was laying in bed and heard screaming. I jumped up into the hall waiting for the scream to happen again to figure out which bedroom to rush into. The scream came again and it was Carter. I ran in to find him with blood every where -another bloody nose. I needed some wipes and towels so I headed to the kitchen. I was walking past the entry way and noticed the front door wide open (3 am). I was frozen.

Thoughts ran through my mind - should I go to the kitchen? What if someone is in there? Jason won't hear anything? I immediately decided I needed to wake Jason and tell him I was heading into the kitchen and not sure if it was safe. I turned around and headed to my room. I said, "Jason" and no movement, again , "Jason" nothing. Finally I walked over to the bed and shook him. He finally came awake and I told him what was going on but that he needed to start waking up so he wouldn't pass out when he got out of bed (has happened before when he gets woken up in the night and jumps out of bed).

I headed to the kitchen, shut the front door, and went to help Carter. As I was helping Carter I noticed Jason sitting in the living room. When Carter was under control I went and talked to Jason. Sure enough he had started to feel light headed and headed for a couch before passing out. We talked for a minute and then he went through the house checking to make sure everything was OK. Everything seemed fine but we know that the door was locked before going to bed. The only thing we could figure was Jaiden must have opened it when she was walking around the house at 1am. She has been known to sleep walk but never open a door. It is disconcerting to know the door was wide open for 2 hours. I think we will be getting an alarm. FUN TIMES!!!

Grandma Great ...

2009-07-13T11:40:00.000-07:00

Ellen Mae Jones passed away peacefully on July 4, 2009.
Hansen Children (Emma & Bridger)

David Jones Family

Dorthy's family

Dazleys

Jackie and Ann

Each son shared memories (Allan Jones)

Brent Jones

A recording of Grandpa Great (Vernon Jones) was played as a tribute. He was quite boisterous. Guess we won't play it at Savanna's wedding :)

Mervin Jones

Zan Jones

Grandchildren and great grand children sent balloons to heaven for Grandma-great.

Kids played while the adults visited

Grandchildren (Mel, Kim, Jenn, Beth, David, Heather - Mike unable to attend)

The four sons (Zan, Mervin, Brent, Allan)

This is what I remember every time we tried to take a picture - Merv trying do bunny ears and Brent smacking it away. I guess your always a child.

Carter, Jaiden and Madison

Allan and Mervin discussing an important topic?

Nana visiting with one of Grandma-Great's medical assistants

Glass Pendants

2009-07-13T10:06:00.000-07:00

We made glass Initial pendants at girls camp. The girls actually made them for their secret sisters finally gift. The girls loved them. I still see the pendants worn as jewelry at church every once in a while. Thanks to www.CandyTile.Etsy.com for supplying the bails for the pendants - check out all their supplies.

Maturity in 3rd grade?

2009-07-12T09:24:00.000-07:00

How old was I when I got arm pit hair?? Jaiden kept saying she had hair under her arms. I didn't believe her just thought she wanted to grow-up to early. Finally she came to me and lifted her arm and said, "really mom look." Sure enough she had lots of fuzz and 4-5 dark hairs that were long. I couldn't believe my eyes - 8 years old going into 3rd grade? I helped her use dads razor to get rid of it. Not looking forward to the remainder of "women issues" that will be following. It was definitely a wake up call that she is growing up.

Love you Jaiden.

Young Women's Camp

2009-07-11T14:37:00.000-07:00

Preparing and creating our unity items for 32 girls and 7 leaders.

Morning of Camp

The group before heading out

Camp "Sweet Lips"

My right hands - Shelley (Assistant) and Michelle (YW Pres.)

Armor of God Fashion Show - "breast plates of righteousness"

"Hot mommas" - I mean lovely leaders :)

Whip cream got a little out of hand :)

Heading home

Young Womens camp was great. Good food, fun and friends.

It was dirty and not a lot of sleep but my testimony of personal inspiration for those you serve grew immensely. At camp I found many things I had prepared or did were due to inspiration on behalf of the girls not coincidence. Hopefully all the hard work, the devotionals and life experience taught at camp will be remembered by the girls for years to come.

Thank you to Nana and Pa who took Madison and Carter to Yellowstone while I was at camp and for Jason making sure Jaiden got to and from dance camp everyday.

Good, Bad and the Ugly

2009-07-10T13:23:00.000-07:00

I am a true believer in telling it like it is. I am not a sugar coater or spinner. Jason saying is, "it is what it is." This includes life hence the following story - not my finest moment in history but definitely memorable.

I am the camp director for our ward and during camp we visited a zip line. I have never done a zip line before and I was crazy enough to listen to one of our "experienced" girls and put the harness on backwards - for fun :) Instead of flying down the zip line sitting you go down in a superman position. I thought I could show off by doing arabesque. Of course I made the "experienced" girl go first and she does a hand stand off the plat form. I climbed up the platform and as I am standing there I begin to second guess my decision and am not sure how to exit the platform.

I am listening to those below and they are telling me to bend down. I am holding on to the rope behind me thinking I am in control but little do I know the gentleman helping is in full control of my departure. As I am asking for additional advise he lets go of the rope and I fall of the platform. As I am falling I yell, "ssshhhiiii......" - yes I swore in front of 50 young women and leaders at a young women's camp. What a great example I am.

As I recover and gain control down the zip line I realize that everyone up top is screaming and laughing at me. I am humiliated by the incident. But I did pull off the "Peter Pan". As I ran the cord back up to the beginning the priesthood leaders yelled, "don't worry you didn't finish the word." And the cheering and laughter got louder. I apologised to everyone in range and the leaders said it was the best time they have had all week.
This is a picture of Kim - the "experienced" girl I listened to. What was I thinking??? Of course as soon as the bishop came up to camp this story was the first to be told. My response was, "just trying to get fired." Bishop's response, "Its going to take more than that." The joke of camp was I had just read about the "Shiites" in the book of Mormon before riding the zip line.

Bear Lake

2009-07-04T09:29:00.000-07:00

We have a tradition of spending July 4th in Bear Lake with Nana and Pa, Atkinson's and MacGoldricks. Its always a favorite.

Nana surprised the kids with new hats. Don't they look cute.
Madison taking a rest with Pa.

We were lucky to have the Densley's with us being they just moved back to Utah.
Savanna and Aunt Kimmy

Jason and Carter coming back from a ride

The Crew

Nana enjoying the shade

Jason is grateful for Pandora

Jaiden is walking Chaz back to our area

Jaiden still trying to hide from the camera

Unfortunately that look is familiar - just ask Jason

Jaiden running from the camera - again

Jaiden and mom played for a while on the tramp. Jaiden even knocked mom off into the water.

Madison and daddy heading out for a ride

Aunt Mel and Uncle Chris passing by

Daddy was obviously the chauffeur this trip

Densleys heading out

Nothing safer than a ride on the beach

Water moving sand to bury our feet

Grandkids with Nana and Pa

Madison is such a dog lover - spending time with Annabell

Travis is always great to play with the kids. They love him.

Casey (Trisha) is making me feel old. I remember dressing him up and painting his nails while babysitting.

Pa taking a rest

Boys trying to flex - look out

Their choice of water rocket rides

Keith (Keefe) entertaining the kids by giving them the "belly shake"

Jaiden always seemed to be at the MacGoldrick's camp hanging with Shalycee and the older kids. All and all a great weekend with family and friends.

Madison hard at work - again

2009-07-02T10:54:00.000-07:00

Notice the empty 2 liter bottle of pop that used to be full. Atleast she tried to clean it up - notice the towels surrounding her sipper cup :)

Sunscreen and gineau shavings do not mix.