tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5610451377911506872011-09-28T18:23:46.790-07:00Blog-a-ButlerMelissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00472845383264023152noreply@blogger.comBlogger1551100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-561045137791150687.post-61989402038405695952011-08-18T10:56:00.000-07:002011-08-18T10:56:39.627-07:00Facebook Email to WingIt's always nice to hear that your struggles have helped someone in need. We've never met Lyssa, but we are so grateful that she shared this experience with us. I'm not posting this to brag, but to remember this experience in the future. Thanks Lyssa!
....................
Hi Wing.
I am not the most eloquent person, but I will try my best to get my message and gratitude to come through.
I Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00472845383264023152noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-561045137791150687.post-87693091266468527532011-08-17T13:15:00.000-07:002011-08-17T13:15:41.823-07:00Yellowstone and "the best day ever!"
Wing has been working 3 different jobs this summer and treated us with an awesome vacation to Yellowstone National Park with some of the extra money. We had so much fun and got to enjoy the company of our friends, the Christensen family. Wing was the only man on the trip until the last day and he sure did take good care of both families. Every night he would be exhausted, but happy. What a man!
Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00472845383264023152noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-561045137791150687.post-60344713465609725222011-04-01T10:20:00.000-07:002011-04-01T10:23:58.386-07:00My Emy is TWO!!!
Two years ago today my little Emily was born. I wanted a April babay and Emy didn't disapoint me. She waited just long enough was born on April Fool's Day, 2009. No joke. April Fool's Day fits her personality perfectly. She's full of giggles and loves to make people smile. What would we do without her little antics? She keeps us smiling even when she's sad.
Some of her favorite things are:
• Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00472845383264023152noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-561045137791150687.post-46383969642930782912011-01-11T08:16:00.000-08:002011-03-07T08:17:29.124-08:00I Know All The Tricks Of Parenting, By Parker
Dear mom and dad,
I really understand that you don't know that I'm ready to have a cell phone. But I know I am ready. I know what I'm capable of and I know that I am fully capable to be ready and pay for all the exspenses. Also I would like to tell that I want one not only that it makes me feel cool and the reason is that I think it makes feel in, what I mean is I kind of feel left out by not Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00472845383264023152noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-561045137791150687.post-23469351781206175162010-10-25T12:43:00.001-07:002010-10-25T13:07:46.562-07:00My Stripling Warrior!
Parker defended Grace from a bully last week. It was awesome! He stood up to the kid twice and totally scared the bully away without any physical fighting. It took a lot of courage. Grace was pretty shaken up, but thrilled that her big bro helped her. The second time he confronted the bully a bunch of girls followed him. One threw her shoe at the bully. That made me laugh. Looks like Parker is Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00472845383264023152noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-561045137791150687.post-78875727225530475132010-10-06T08:36:00.000-07:002010-10-06T08:39:50.353-07:00You Can't See Me!
Seems like children are old folk magnets, especially when visiting a rest home. Babies must have more of a magnetic pull on the women in the rest home because Emily attracts them as soon as we walk in the door! They sweetly hobble over to talk to Emily or just to touch her little arm.
Emily does not appreciate the attention. She closes her eyes and hides from them because if she can't see you..Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00472845383264023152noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-561045137791150687.post-63337049627670504692010-10-06T08:31:00.000-07:002010-10-06T08:31:14.163-07:00Bathsheba
At FHE: "Who was Joseph Smith married to?" Kate's answer, "Bathsheba!"
Well, it's good to know that the kids are at least listening to some of the scripture stories... Even if they get them a bit mixed up.Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00472845383264023152noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-561045137791150687.post-82416273770261923522010-04-01T14:15:00.000-07:002011-08-17T14:49:09.422-07:00Emily's First BirthdayMy little Emy is ONE years old today! Time has flown by way too fast. Emy you are adored by everyone. Your smile brightens every soul and your sweet countenance fills every heart. We are so blessed to have you, our little miracle, in our family. I could just sit and watch you all day. Here's some photos of you throughout your 365th day of life. Now this is what being a whole year old is like.
I Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00472845383264023152noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-561045137791150687.post-16158256752155833972010-03-23T11:58:00.000-07:002011-08-17T13:30:15.786-07:00Music to my earsNobody in this family knows how to play the piano, but it sure looks like a special little somebody will be learning how to play sometime soon.
I love little fingers!
Pretty hard to reach the keys when your diaper is sagging and your a bit to short, but somehow this little ones determination always wins.
And we mustn't forget Emy's accomplice, Kate and her lovely poses for the camera.
Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00472845383264023152noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-561045137791150687.post-67567849720646275442010-03-18T11:58:00.000-07:002011-08-17T13:31:42.959-07:00First StepNo more crawling for this little twinkle toes. She's a walker now!
Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00472845383264023152noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-561045137791150687.post-23478452740356791002010-03-11T14:46:00.000-08:002011-08-17T13:57:48.048-07:00Space DerbyParker entered the space derby this year in scouts. His rocket took third place! Not too shabby.
Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00472845383264023152noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-561045137791150687.post-53845205844598823472010-03-06T14:55:00.000-08:002011-08-17T13:52:32.208-07:00BasketballThis year it was my priviledge to coach Grace's Jr. Flash basketball team. It was her first year playing and she had a blast. But, I think that I had more fun than her. Shhh, don't tell Grace.
Grace has a great feel for the court. She is one of the only players who will pass the ball and can see when and where to pass the ball. She has a soft touch that has oodles of potential. I can't waitMelissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00472845383264023152noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-561045137791150687.post-57560923935529746572010-02-14T10:26:00.000-08:002011-08-17T13:35:37.193-07:00Valentines DayIt's our first Valentines Day at Eaglcrest and we wanted to make sure that we did it in typical Butler style.
I'm not sure which face is scarier, the Pikachu box or Parker.
Monster friendly mail box complete with many happy smiles.
Dang! This girl has the best kissy lips.... Boys, please keep away for a few more years. Thank you.
Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00472845383264023152noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-561045137791150687.post-35410336674405809662010-02-12T14:54:00.000-08:002011-08-17T13:24:04.028-07:00Lucifer!Kate has been really enjoying primary lately and has matured quite a bit and will even go to class without being bribed. Whew. One day Kate asked me why Lucifer fought us in heaven. I tried to explain the whole plan and battle to her, but she still was very confused. After a few moments of thinking to myself of how to explain this to her a thought popped into my mind. I asked, "Kate, are you Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00472845383264023152noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-561045137791150687.post-91632401433107692262010-02-12T13:36:00.000-08:002011-08-17T13:45:40.912-07:00Grandma Diane's BirthdayHappy Birthday Mom! The kids wanted to through Granny a tea party complete with dancing, good food and gifts. We love you Grandma!
Yummy fruit Grama!
Grace and Kate made the cupcakes. They were not only delicious, but good looking too!
Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00472845383264023152noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-561045137791150687.post-9651849937462719432010-02-08T19:58:00.000-08:002010-02-08T19:58:49.971-08:00Wing's Website Launch: DeafTV.comDear Family and Friends:
Just a note to announce the launch of my company's new website, DeafTV.com. I'm pretty excited about the launch and even more excited about what it will become as we continue to add new content and move towards our 2.0 version with even more features and a more Deaf-centric interface.
I'm telling you all of this for two reasons: First because I'm proud of our new baby! Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00472845383264023152noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-561045137791150687.post-13173654296435604932010-01-28T14:44:00.000-08:002010-06-03T13:20:09.825-07:00My Romeo
Parker was chosen to play Romeo in his fifth grade classes version of Romeo and Juliet. He was picked because of his awesome memorizing skills and because no other boy would take the part. I know that makes Parker seem like the default Romeo, but he really did an awesome job! And he was the only boy who actually memorized all of the parts for tryouts. Mrs. Taylor said that he was the best Romeo Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00472845383264023152noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-561045137791150687.post-39870295401838564632010-01-27T14:57:00.000-08:002010-06-03T13:16:55.065-07:00Elastics
Every Thursday morning we head over to the rec center for a little bit o' elastics.... or gymnastics! Kate just adores her gymnastics class and does a different routine each week. She's worked on the parallel bars, balance beam, rings, pummel horse and floor. She is a very proud girl and loves to show us her tricks at home. Kate pays attention and minds her teachers very well. And last, but not Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00472845383264023152noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-561045137791150687.post-63267313020901771792010-01-19T23:15:00.001-08:002010-06-03T12:51:17.570-07:00THEIR PLAYIN' BASKETBALL!YES!!! The parents of Parker and Grace are finally able to LIVE THEIR LIVES THROUGH THEIR CHILDREN! They are playing basketball and loving it! Ahhh... The glory days.
When I first told Parker that he had to play basketball on a team he totally freaked out. He told all of our extended family how I was forcing him to play and how much he disliked having his freedom taken away because of sports. Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00472845383264023152noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-561045137791150687.post-21197779597383455782009-12-25T12:53:00.000-08:002010-06-01T14:43:54.078-07:00Christmas DayChirstmas morning brought Legos, Webkinz and extremely hard to find and sold out instantly in stores..... Zhu Zhu Hamsters. Oh and let's not forget Daddy's delicious Christmas Crepes!
Legos
Merry Christmas from Grandma and Grandpa Butler
Helping make the turkey dinner.Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00472845383264023152noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-561045137791150687.post-76981570659167144192009-12-24T12:53:00.000-08:002010-04-05T15:36:21.415-07:00Christmas Eve With the DurrantsMelissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00472845383264023152noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-561045137791150687.post-62605337872988868582009-12-23T12:51:00.000-08:002010-03-22T10:24:38.587-07:00Parker Party With Santa
Christmas with the Parker family was a blast. It is even rumored to be the "best party ever!" We started with good food, great company and even funner things to do. The children made snow globes (my idea) with baby food jars, plastic christmas lights, glitter, beads and a bit of Mom and Dad's help with the glue guns. It was a craft that even the grown up "kids" enjoyed.
We were all surprised Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00472845383264023152noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-561045137791150687.post-46865200335956822272009-12-12T12:49:00.000-08:002010-03-22T09:43:39.523-07:00Party at the Charleston
All holiday's at the Charleston are fun! We love visiting Grandma Donna on these special days. Not just because we get great tasting food and play fun games, but because we get to enjoy Grandma Donna's company and the sweet spirits of the people living at her assisted living center. Thank you, Grandma Donna, for a wonderful evening.
Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00472845383264023152noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-561045137791150687.post-66857782716967410022009-11-25T14:50:00.000-08:002010-03-22T09:44:47.773-07:00Thanksgiving
Counting my blessings.Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00472845383264023152noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-561045137791150687.post-26453701695095634602009-11-12T12:48:00.000-08:002010-03-16T11:22:20.102-07:00Twinners
Nothing beats some sisterly love!Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00472845383264023152noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-561045137791150687.post-45309362750125815802009-11-01T19:43:00.000-08:002010-02-02T09:01:55.173-08:00Turning Into A Man
Parker's size EIGHT shoes! I can't believe that my little Parker is getting so big.
His feet are much bigger than Grandma Diane's feet. (Now that was a much anticipated and celebrated event! Sort of a right of passage for Parker.) Wing's shoe size in only a size 10. Parker is only two sizes away from being the same size as his Dad! Scary!
We will soon be raising a man and he knows it too! He Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00472845383264023152noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-561045137791150687.post-83748166507579997602009-10-31T10:32:00.000-07:002010-03-16T11:18:41.362-07:00Halloween 2009
We had such a great Halloween this year! The kids all came up with their own costume ideas and with the help of Amanda their wishes were granted. They first celebrated at school with various Halloween parties.
On Halloween Day we were spooked by Uncle Kenny and his haunted garage. The spookiness get better and better every year! This year was particularly fun because Parker and Grace went Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00472845383264023152noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-561045137791150687.post-27283076012664941482009-10-30T12:46:00.000-07:002010-03-16T10:56:07.182-07:00Carving Pumpkins
Icky, slimey, gooey, gloopy, blooby and sloppy pumpkin "brains." Carving pumpkins for Halloween is so much fun! (Especially when you are old enough to design AND carve your very own pumpkin.)
The end results make the slimey "brains" inside the pumpkins worth the trouble.
Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00472845383264023152noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-561045137791150687.post-23631188880518198652009-10-25T12:45:00.000-07:002010-02-02T13:54:42.908-08:00Emily's Blessing DayEmily Jane Butler was given a name and a blessing from her Grandfather on Sunday, October 25, 2009.
We kept the day small and simple by having the blessing at our home and sharing it with family. This made the day very special and allowed us to focus on the celebration that little Emily is to each of us. Wing conducted the meeting with Parker, Grace and Kate leading the music and saying prayersMelissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00472845383264023152noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-561045137791150687.post-3017180102376928682009-10-18T08:08:00.000-07:002010-02-02T12:14:22.548-08:00Talking In Sacrament MeetingToday our whole family (minus Emily) spoke in sacrament meeting. The bishop asked us to speak on the Atonement. What a loaded subject! We decided to not philosophize, but to talk about what the Atonement means to us in our daily lives by sharing personal stories and feelings because the Atonement means something different to everyone. It's simply that personal. Hopefully, we helped others feel ofMelissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00472845383264023152noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-561045137791150687.post-62789401889483653782009-10-16T18:03:00.000-07:002010-02-02T12:14:34.489-08:00Fun With the Durrants
Grandma Diane and Amanda gave us "parents" a special treat tonight: The oldest three kids are going to sleep over at the Durrant house! They can't wait to go and have been waiting with eager anticipation. You can see the excitement on their faces while they patiently wait on the doorstep for Grandma to pick them up in her new car.
First they went to a dollar movie at the Sticky Foot movie Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00472845383264023152noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-561045137791150687.post-74094672300639678782009-10-16T16:41:00.000-07:002010-02-02T12:14:43.350-08:00First Tooth
It's official! After several days of drooling, chewing on the fireplace mantle and having nasty diapers... Emily's first tooth popped up! She was such a little trooper. She hardly cried and slept pretty good despite her discomfort. The most painful part of Emily's teething is when she would bite me. Ouch! But, who can blame her? We chew on her little goodness all the time. She's just so darn Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00472845383264023152noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-561045137791150687.post-30266221258454882822009-10-10T08:22:00.000-07:002009-10-29T18:03:15.515-07:00Soccer
Grace has wanted to play soccer for the past couple of years and this year was her lucky year! She is such a little athlete with tons of speed.
Go Grace! Go! Coach played her at forward because she is the fastest one on her team. We had the strategy of kicking the ball really hard and out running her opponents. Every time she did this, she was a huge success.
Grace hustled every second she Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00472845383264023152noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-561045137791150687.post-49145321148761773332009-10-08T08:44:00.000-07:002010-01-25T17:16:49.457-08:00Disneyland: Trick Or Treat On The Street
Today is the day we have looked forward to all week. It's trick or treat on the street day! We reserved special tickets to stay late in California Adventure and go trick-or-treating after hours. We dressed in our halloween outfits and had a blast. The theme was Candy Corn Acres. So cute!
My two little girls dressed up in their "wickedly adorable" halloween shirts that Grandma Diane bought themMelissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00472845383264023152noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-561045137791150687.post-7504343501383894692009-10-07T08:44:00.000-07:002009-11-09T17:18:39.449-08:00Disneyland: Today's Lesson
There's nothing like the sites, sounds and smells of the beach! Today we visited Laguna Beach and had an unexpected blast! The lesson learned today is: Trust Your Parents. The kids didn't want to go to the beach and whined and bawled driving in the car to the Newport Temple. So sneaky Wing and Melissa drove to Laguna Beach without the kids knowing where they were going and when we got there theyMelissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00472845383264023152noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-561045137791150687.post-16490952107756679932009-10-06T08:47:00.000-07:002009-11-09T16:53:03.508-08:00Disneyland: More Disney
Buffet at Big Thunder Ranch. Mmmmmm... Ribs, chicken, sausage, corn, rolls, beans! Gonna go to the Big Thunder Ranch next time we visit Disneyland too.
Watch out for scary drivers! Stay off the roads tonight.
Pumpkins and fun at Big Thunder Ranch.
Kate and I flew the Dumbo's friendly skies.
The whole day felt like Emily's smile was shining on us all day. We love Disneyland!
Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00472845383264023152noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-561045137791150687.post-55498421163171792742009-10-05T08:42:00.000-07:002009-11-09T13:28:20.770-08:00Disneyland: Disney Day
Gotta love the Mickey Mouse pancakes. As a kid, my parents always made sure that we got to eat the mouse. I looked forward to every year. I loved looking over the counter and watching the chief make my Mickey pancake. It was even funner to watch my kids do the same thing and enjoy each bite of the mousey goodness. Definitely a must do at Disneyland!
Sorry no Kings or Queens this trip. That Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00472845383264023152noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-561045137791150687.post-9132116680816811092009-10-04T08:42:00.000-07:002009-11-03T17:31:43.409-08:00Disneyland: Crystal Cove
Just down the road from our suite in Newport Beach is Crystal Cove State Park. It's a collection of tide pools with little living creatures everywhere. We had so much fun exploring the different tide pools and making sand castles. The weather was just right and it was the perfect break from the hustle and bustle of Disneyland.
The Butler boys are so stinkin' handsome! (Notice the wind surfer Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00472845383264023152noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-561045137791150687.post-11745777917053821212009-10-03T08:41:00.000-07:002009-11-03T17:34:03.609-08:00Disneyland: Princess Lunch and Red DayToday we are a little bit crazy. We are at Disneyland on a Saturday. Insane in the membrane! But, it actually turned out to be quite a learning experience. We learned when not to go to Disneyland not only because it was on a weekend, but because of red day. Every first Saturday of October is red day. That's when the happiest place on earth becomes the gayest place on earth. And all of them wear Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00472845383264023152noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-561045137791150687.post-51564802006376265632009-10-02T08:20:00.000-07:002009-11-02T08:40:32.863-08:00Disneyland: Travel Day
Today is the first day of our vacation to Disneyland! Grandma got us a time share in Newport Beach for FREE, Daddy got us flights with his rapid rewards for FREE... Who can resist such a great opportunity? We are all so excited to enjoy the sites, smells and sounds of Disney and the beach!
Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00472845383264023152noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-561045137791150687.post-75159735784058353872009-09-30T10:26:00.000-07:002009-10-29T17:24:22.833-07:004 Years OldToday is Kate's big girl four year old birthday. For the last month and a half she has woken up every morning asking if it was her birthday and then cries to the tune of: "WHY MOM? I can't wait so many days for my dirfday to come! AAAWW MAN, DANG IT!"
Kate was thrilled to bring Strawberry Shortcake "pupcakes" to preschool. The boys got stinky crayon "pupcakes" because they are boys.
Kate Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00472845383264023152noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-561045137791150687.post-32511214262657975912009-09-22T10:27:00.000-07:002009-11-02T08:16:44.765-08:00Imagination Station Preschool
Kate started preschool this month. She is lucky to be attending the same preschool as her church friends, Emily Furness and Stella Fleming. There are two Kates in her class. The kids call her "Little" Kate. When they see her they say, "Oh here comes Little Kate! She's so cute." She loves seeing her friends at school and playing in the play house with them.
Her teacher, Mrs. Shannon is super Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00472845383264023152noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-561045137791150687.post-85880975759756410252009-09-11T10:15:00.000-07:002009-09-12T10:22:01.982-07:005 Months Old and TeethingEmmy has a new favorite past time... Chewing on our fireplace mantle! She is 5 months old now and is starting to scoot. She gets super frustrated because she doesn't realize that she is scooting and ends up in weird places. Today she got across the room and to the fireplace. When she discovered where she was, she just started chewing on the mantle. Those teeth must be coming in something serious.Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00472845383264023152noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-561045137791150687.post-5357778602242314452009-09-11T09:09:00.000-07:002009-09-17T21:58:38.183-07:00Where Did My Little Girl Go?
Grace turned 9 years old today! What happened to my little girl? She's a woman now! It's been 9 wonderfully fast years with this bundle of joy. From the three layers of rollie pollie legs, teeny tiny Grace sayings, pierced ears and new grown up haircut--This girl has been a sweet joy to raise. I often ask myself how I got so lucky to be her Mom. It is such a privilege to have Grace in my life. Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00472845383264023152noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-561045137791150687.post-18686572541357517612009-09-10T10:31:00.000-07:002009-09-12T10:34:17.855-07:00Locks of Love
Grace wanted to get her hair cut for her birthday. We cut it the day before her birthday so she could show it off at school on her real birthday. My cute friend Ciera cut her hair and suggested that if we are cutting off 4 to 6 inches why not go with 8 inches and donate the hair to locks of love. With the passing of Pammy in January, Grace thought that would be a great gift to give someone. EvenMelissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00472845383264023152noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-561045137791150687.post-73829945993433540912009-08-22T09:11:00.000-07:002009-09-12T10:12:35.329-07:00Neighborhood Water SlideWe have a grassy area on the north side of our house that is owned by the city of Lehi for drainage. Our neighbors on the other side of the grassy field, the Rogowski family, set up a huge slip-in-slide on this hot August day. When our kids saw the slide they put on their swimming suits in record breaking time, ran over to the grassy field and had a blast. We heard rumors of this awesome slide, Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00472845383264023152noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-561045137791150687.post-85669102544860947452009-08-20T14:10:00.001-07:002009-09-01T14:38:59.034-07:00First Day of SchoolToday is the first day of school at Eaglecrest Elementary for Parker and Grace! Grace already has a ton of friends and even has a friend in her 3rd grade class. Parker has also made friends in scouts and know 2 people in class. They both share a nervous excitement concerning how class works at the new school, but are extremely happy about the lunch menu and not having to suffer through Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00472845383264023152noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-561045137791150687.post-58801465250193094472009-08-18T14:42:00.000-07:002009-09-01T14:49:15.604-07:00The Importance Of A Sister
A sister is someone who loves you from the heart,No matter how much you argue you cannot be drawn apart.She is a joy that cannot be taken away,Once she enters your life, she is there to stay.A friend who helps you through difficult times,Her comforting words are worth much more than dimes.A partner who fills your life with laughs and smile,These memories last for miles and miles.When she is by Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00472845383264023152noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-561045137791150687.post-25463184833251830002009-08-15T12:50:00.000-07:002009-09-14T14:35:11.874-07:00Butler ReunionThis years Butler family reunion was in Glendale just outside of Bryce Canyon. We stayed at an awesome KOA campground with an awesome view, fun trails, lizards, clean bathrooms, swimming pool and great company. Did I mention clean bathrooms? With showers? Lin did a great job planning the trip.
First night camp fire roasting marshmallows and starbursts.
Our gorgeous backyard view.
Swimming in the Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00472845383264023152noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-561045137791150687.post-56444857957403027342009-08-09T08:28:00.000-07:002009-09-01T08:38:01.609-07:00First Real Bites Of FoodToday Emmy got to try her first bite of rice cereal and she loved it! She has been watching us eat lately and is enthralled with each spoonful we put in our mouths. She looks like she is watching a tennis match of eating because her little head rotates up and down from the plate to our mouths with each bite we take. She made it so hard to eat in front of her that Grace said, "Why don't we just Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00472845383264023152noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-561045137791150687.post-25081348588402177862009-08-03T14:00:00.001-07:002009-09-01T14:50:25.831-07:00Pimples, by KateWhile sitting in her car seat, Kate noticed that her body was changing....
Kate: "Moooooom! I'm growing pimples all over my body!"Mom: "What? Where?"Kate: "All over my legs and arms." (Proud to have passed the next phase of grown up girlhood.)Mom: "Let me see. Oh, those are goose bumps!"Kate: "Aaahhhh... Shucks!"Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00472845383264023152noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-561045137791150687.post-2503379456457113992009-08-02T08:34:00.000-07:002009-10-13T09:47:24.511-07:00TWF
Sometimes I am amazed at how creative my kids are! TWF stands for Thumb Wrestling Federation. Parker saw a commercial on TV with some thumb wrestlers similar to this and decided to start his own federation. Parker and Grace created several different masks for the whole family to enjoy.
Parker and Grace recruited Alicia and Noah and added onto the TWF's popularity.
Amanda used her photographyMelissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00472845383264023152noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-561045137791150687.post-3656082594922257722009-08-01T14:18:00.000-07:002009-10-13T09:56:05.201-07:00Gifted and Talented at 4 Months Old
The rumors are true! Emily is advanced for her age! Dr. Johnson said so in her 4 month check up today. Now we have a real doctors opinion to confirm what I have suspected from day one. She truly is a gifted little baby! She is so engaging and is doing things that a 6 month old would do. She is the smilingest little girl have I ever met, she rolls over to her tummy and even enjoys tummy time. Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00472845383264023152noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-561045137791150687.post-34992808863425998992009-07-31T13:20:00.000-07:002009-09-01T08:22:31.181-07:00Oquirrh Mountain Utah Temple
We got the opportunity to attend the Oquirrh Mountain Utah Temple's open house today. The kids were thrilled to go inside the temple and see all of the different rooms. We got the opportunity to sit and relax in one of the sealing rooms and see our family reflected through the mirrors. It was awesome to see my family repeat throughout eternity. While it was very crowded, there was a soft spiritMelissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00472845383264023152noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-561045137791150687.post-26812535704050693642009-07-24T13:56:00.000-07:002009-10-13T09:48:43.076-07:00Bear Lake 2009
Every summer the Hunsaker family invites the Durrants to Bear Lake. Wayne trades his services for use of a cabin on the beach. We look forward to this trip every year. The water is beautiful, the food is excellent, and the company doesn't get any better.
This year was a quiet year for all of those who attended. It was our first year without Aunt Pammy. She always spear headed this trip and Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00472845383264023152noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-561045137791150687.post-40612839283493882352009-07-24T08:35:00.000-07:002009-10-13T10:40:43.062-07:00Donna Turns 80!
Happy Birthday Grandma Donna! We love you.
This year we took a Parker family picture and gave it to Great Grandma Donna. She loved it.
Singing Happy Birthday.
Grandma just loves to dress up pretty. Wait a minute. That's not Donna. That's Parker!
Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00472845383264023152noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-561045137791150687.post-46189625688937408122009-07-18T08:39:00.000-07:002009-10-13T08:45:42.006-07:00Award Winning ArtistsThis year instead of running in the Steel Days Fun Run, we decided to enter the art contest. My little artists each won an award in their division and a small cash prize. It was so fun to see their talents showcased in the art gallery.
"Happily Ever After"
"Springtime"
"Mr. Roboto"Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00472845383264023152noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-561045137791150687.post-69641206404565370432009-07-17T13:57:00.000-07:002009-09-14T08:09:08.845-07:00Bee StingsMy beautiful little girl got stung by a yellow jacket just below her nose. It got so swollen that it spread around her entire face. The after photo was taken 2 days after the sting incidence. For a girl who is very proud of her good looks, this was quite the test. We talked about how some kids faces are swollen from cancer therapy or other illnesses and she felt pretty lucky that her huge face Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00472845383264023152noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-561045137791150687.post-60677472753733192592009-07-17T09:16:00.000-07:002009-10-13T09:16:51.331-07:00Steel Days Parade 2009Each year we look forward to Steel Days! Our family jokes about owning the city because three Durrants worked at city hall and we think that this parade is our parade. It's always a good time. American Fork provides a ton of fun things to do during the week of Steel Days.
Coveted parade watching spot under the shade of the Presbyterian church trees.
Trying to catch some shade between candy Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00472845383264023152noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-561045137791150687.post-80680832901701254342009-07-14T13:10:00.000-07:002009-09-01T08:23:02.689-07:00FHE In AF CanyonWe had so much fun hiking Timp Cave that we decided to spend the following family home evening roasting weenies and marshmallows up American Fork Canyon. A ton of people had the same idea we did, so we ended up by Tibble Fork. It was a beautiful drive and a great spot. Amanda was super helpful and sprung for the all of the food. Thanks Mandy! Hhmmm... Hot dogs.Kate helped me burn my marshmallow Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00472845383264023152noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-561045137791150687.post-76573496705349934042009-07-13T13:09:00.000-07:002009-08-28T08:30:17.093-07:00Swim LessonsThe Durrant's needed a bit of a break from the Butler crazies and we needed to get out of the house. So I decided to sign the kids up for swimming lessons at the AF Recreation Center. Parker had a fit! He bawled that I was forcing him into something he didn't want to do. So of course, the girls took the opposite approach and were happily thrilled. That seems to be the pattern around our house Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00472845383264023152noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-561045137791150687.post-39368507777493073272009-07-11T14:04:00.000-07:002009-08-27T17:13:51.915-07:00Amanda's Birthday HikeThis year for Amanda's birthday she wanted to celebrate another year of wisdom by hiking Timp Cave with her favorite people.... The Butlers! I really can't blame her. She's always been a very smart girl.The mountain is beautiful! We forgot how much we love the mountains. There is so much to see and appreciate.Here's a view from up high on American Fork Canyon. It was fun to look down and figure Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00472845383264023152noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-561045137791150687.post-29483831254052041282009-07-04T13:55:00.000-07:002009-09-01T14:50:44.434-07:00July 4th and Family Pictures
For the 4th of July, we went over to my Aunt Janet's beautiful house to celebrate my Grandma Parker's 80th birthday.... and our countries independence. We decided to give Grandma a family picture gift and she was thrilled. She just loves counting all of her grandchildren and it helps her to remember how many people love her when she sees their smiling faces. I've also wanted a new family photoMelissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00472845383264023152noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-561045137791150687.post-83899709518975284152009-07-01T08:37:00.000-07:002009-10-13T09:54:46.921-07:003 Months Old
When Emmy smiles her entire face lights up and everyone in her presence melts. The world is a better place with this grinning little bug in it. Happy three months old, sweet Emily!
Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00472845383264023152noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-561045137791150687.post-18539809519954007442009-06-26T12:18:00.000-07:002009-06-26T17:34:22.975-07:00Moving & Pam Hunsaker Drive, by MelissaWell, we've moved out of Henderson and into my parents house for a month before we move into our own home in Lehi. We have mixed feelings about our big move. It's both a wonderful dream come true and a bit sad at the same time. We always knew we'd be back in Utah to follow our values and raise our children close to family, but we didn't expect to build a family in Henderson too. Our friends in Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00472845383264023152noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-561045137791150687.post-36044987291716567082009-06-21T11:47:00.000-07:002009-06-21T16:04:04.691-07:00What a guy!Melissa: Wing has always been an awesome Dad. On his first Father's Day he received a very special gift, a baby boy! When he first saw Parker his eyes were huge with pride and his grin just about fell off his face. I knew from that time forward that Wing would dedicated himself to being a good father, provider and husband. We are so blessed to have him as our Daddy. He makes learning, playing, Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00472845383264023152noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-561045137791150687.post-10334821894520959922009-06-19T10:41:00.000-07:002009-08-27T13:05:44.089-07:00The Big Ten!My chubby little baby boy is TEN YEARS OLD today! Every birthday reminds of his original birthday when my water broke at 6:00 am when Wing had just got home from an Amway convention in Ogden. We were living with my parents at the time, trying to save up enough money to get our first house. When my water broke I asked Wing, "What color it that? Oh, I think my water just broke!" Wing's eyes went Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00472845383264023152noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-561045137791150687.post-67697058310644380812009-06-18T10:59:00.000-07:002009-08-10T11:52:45.456-07:00Last NightWe wanted to fill the last night in our Henderson house with fun memories. We were all exhausted from loading trucks and it was late at night, but we just couldn't pass on one last game of hide-n-seek. We turned off most of the lights and played in the dark because the house was empty without furniture to hide behind. Both Wing and I have to admit that we were a bit scared when it was our turn toMelissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00472845383264023152noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-561045137791150687.post-70111871738314831732009-06-12T12:04:00.000-07:002009-06-12T12:36:53.177-07:00Why Mom Can't Be A Kid & More, by MelissaI Want To Be A Kid Again:Kate and I went to the Mission Hills park with her preschool class after one of her field trips. It was a really hot day and the water feature was on. I expressed my desires to be a kid again and play in the water with Kate. This is what she said....Melissa: "Kate, I want to be a kid again and play in the water. It's too hot out here."Kate: "Mooommm! You can't be a kid Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00472845383264023152noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-561045137791150687.post-47382224571016892282009-06-08T16:59:00.001-07:002009-09-01T08:23:29.421-07:00Pine Wood Derby, by ParkerI had lots of fun at my 2nd Pine Wood Derby. My car was the Mighty Mouse! My car was the only one that crashed, in the second half. This is how it happened. First, my car went down the and lost a screw. So that caused it to hit the bottom and need repair. Next my car went down for the final time. So it gained speed and BANG!! My car's wheels flew out on the track and it sputtered around and roundMelissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00472845383264023152noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-561045137791150687.post-18518400479839159232009-06-04T11:02:00.000-07:002009-09-01T08:23:47.938-07:00Last Day of SchoolToday was the last day of school for my three little smarty pants. We've been blessed to have a wonderful year full of friends, laughs, learning, great teachers and confidence building. I couldn't have asked for anything more. Here's some of our favorite Dooley and Butterfly Magic moments:Straight A students all year long and the cutest preschool graduate I've ever seen! It's rare to get straightMelissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00472845383264023152noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-561045137791150687.post-4147095908843405182009-05-14T11:00:00.003-07:002009-06-12T12:38:49.581-07:00Goooooo.... GRACE!, by GraceGimme a G ... Gimme an R ... Gimme an A ... Gimme an C ... Gimme an E ...GO GRACE! I just got done taking beginning cheerleading. At first I wasn't sure if I wanted to be in the class because my Mom said that I would have to cheer loud in front of people at games. That made me nervous, but I decided to do it anyway. I didn't know anyone in the class, but I made lots of friends the very Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00472845383264023152noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-561045137791150687.post-43217268072204479622009-05-14T10:59:00.000-07:002009-05-15T14:55:05.292-07:00What HAPPENS in kindergarten STAYS with you foreverAfter 38 years of dedicated service to teaching, my Mom, Diane Durrant, is retiring. We went to her open house celebration at Barratt Elementary over the weekend and were amazed at how many lives she has touched. For years, I've viewed Diane as just my Mom without seeing the outreaching benefits of her being a teacher. Now that I am a Mother I understand what a blessing a teacher like my Mom is. Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00472845383264023152noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-561045137791150687.post-86182721498141494832009-05-10T14:05:00.000-07:002009-07-27T14:43:48.827-07:00One Month Old and ALL SMILES!Our little Emmy has changed so much in just one month. Today she is one month and ten days old. She gets cuter and cuter each moment. She has the sweetest little spirit and brings joy to everyone that sees her. We think that she is gifted because she has already started to smile and tries her hardest to talk! Sometimes she tries so hard that it scratches her little throat and she coughs. Too cuteMelissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00472845383264023152noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-561045137791150687.post-28460320448635691382009-05-07T10:41:00.000-07:002009-05-08T07:43:25.744-07:00Classic KateWe've been having a hard time getting Kate to sleep lately. She's caught the Jack-In-The-Box syndrome. She's always popping in and out of bed with some sort of unique excuse. So I decided to try a little positive reinforcement and went to the dollar store and bought a bunch of her favorite treats as a reward for the nights that she stayed in her bed. It worked great until the third or "fird" Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00472845383264023152noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-561045137791150687.post-14012221665376681792009-05-01T13:09:00.000-07:002009-05-04T11:36:20.467-07:00Hiking With Daddy Parker: We had to take a lot of pictures. This is the one that my dad said to do a really big smile. Reallllllllllllllllllly big! So I did as you can see. But, afterwords my Dad said that I ruined the picture because my smile was SO big that it covered the whole entire page. On the hike, there was also these almost naked guys running. All they had on was their boxers. They were singing, "I WANT Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00472845383264023152noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-561045137791150687.post-45707146613466081732009-05-01T09:58:00.001-07:002009-05-01T10:30:57.206-07:001 Month Older and Cuter Too!Today is Emily's one month birthday! I can't remember what life was like before she came into our lives. She naturally belongs to our family in her own special way. She is the sweetest little thing. Emily takes a bottle and "Mom's milk," sleeps most of the day and night, smiles, grunts half of the night, falls asleep when riding in the car or stroller and snuggles on my shoulder like a little Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00472845383264023152noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-561045137791150687.post-47027180864606358522009-04-24T11:39:00.000-07:002009-04-24T12:08:18.744-07:00Star Student and Butler All StarParker is the star student this week in his fourth grade class and he's a star everyday in our family.When Parker was born, we were very excited. We expected him to have black hair like his Dad, but instead he was born with a light complexion and no hair at all. He was bald, tall, chunky and the cutest baby we had ever seen! Parker was named after two very special people. His Great Grandpa ParkerMelissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00472845383264023152noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-561045137791150687.post-3346859355751822292009-04-08T12:32:00.000-07:002009-04-11T13:12:22.395-07:00We Just Can't Get Enough of Emily Jane!We just can't get enough of this little bundle of joy! From the tip of her little toes to the heavenly nibble in her ear, Emily's every detail is precious.She has the cutest little nibble in her left ear. We think that our Aunt Pammy had a hard time letting Emily leave heaven and gave her a kiss to remember her namesake by.Emily loves her sister, Kate. She is so patient and allows everyone to Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00472845383264023152noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-561045137791150687.post-43296971786155546362009-04-05T08:28:00.000-07:002009-08-27T08:40:45.943-07:00The True Gift of EasterWith the birth of our newest little girl just four days ago, my heart swells when reflecting upon the gift our Savior gave us so many Easters ago. The arrival of spring is another symbol of the renewal we all are blessed with through His atoning sacrifice. I pray that we can live the atonement each day by being "at one" with Him through the miracle of life and beauty of His plan of happiness.
Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00472845383264023152noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-561045137791150687.post-74206586584967332412009-04-04T08:27:00.000-07:002009-08-27T08:28:12.204-07:00Easter Eggs and Surprises
I just love Easter! From colored eggs to fluffy chicks, it's the best way to start spring! Since Emily is just a few days old, Grandma Diane and Amanda celebrated Easter at our house in Henderson.
Amanda brought the egg coloring supplies and the kids loved all of the different ways they could color and decorate the eggs.
It was hard to choose which masterpiece to eat first!
The finished Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00472845383264023152noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-561045137791150687.post-1941797133583123422009-04-02T12:24:00.000-07:002009-04-08T13:07:39.351-07:00Emily's First DayEmily came home today! The kids already adore her and smile at her every newborn grunt, coo, spit up and cry. Parker, Grace and Kate decorated the front yard with pink streamers, balloons and signs to welcome Mom and Emily home from the hospital. So far, Emily has a sweet and patient disposition that seems too good to be true. Grace holds her for hours soaking in the smells and sounds of newbornsMelissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00472845383264023152noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-561045137791150687.post-18376532849367210752009-04-01T12:08:00.000-07:002009-04-11T13:22:45.218-07:00Emily is Born!After 12 hours of labor, our family was blessed with the arrival of Emily Jane Butler. Her sweet spirit came into the world at the perfect time and we couldn't be happier. She is a healthy, active and bright eyed baby with a sweet, soft disposition. It's times like these that remind us of how close to heaven our own lives really are. The miracle of life fills our hearts with gratitude for the Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00472845383264023152noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-561045137791150687.post-37757460857061111352009-03-24T17:57:00.001-07:002009-03-24T20:31:34.723-07:00Volleyball! YEAH!, by ParkerHere I am serving the ball. BOY! I carried my team up in serving. That's how we won.So I had fun doing my volleyball classes. I learned how to to pass or bump, the positions on how to do spikes (I got really good at it. I could hit them over the net.) and how to set properly. Oh, only use finger tips. I can serve from the outside court all the way in the court! Not out of bounds, but in! After Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00472845383264023152noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-561045137791150687.post-39667436200783791942009-03-07T11:11:00.001-08:002009-03-07T12:07:36.637-08:00Tumbling Tots!Kate just loves Tumbling Tots and her teacher Miss Missy. She looks forward to going every Saturday. Kate practices her newly acquired skills at home and is getting very good at somersaults. She points her toes very well and is an excellent jumper. The class is perfect for her because she is constantly hoping and running on tippy-toes everywhere she goes anyway. Now her happy skills are a bit Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00472845383264023152noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-561045137791150687.post-55674877795823080082009-02-27T16:50:00.000-08:002009-03-24T20:31:46.160-07:00Daddy Daughter Date, by GraceToday my Dad took me on a Daddy daughter date. He got me out of school one hour early. It surprised me. We planned on going to the Jonas Brothers 3D Concert Movie for a long time. So we drove to the Fiesta on opening day. Kate came too. When we got there we ate shakes. We all got chocolate, but my Dad shared one with Kate because she really doesn't eat much. When we felt full we went to give our Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00472845383264023152noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-561045137791150687.post-59965367162393564332009-02-25T08:45:00.000-08:002009-03-05T08:33:00.401-08:00The Newest BearLast week Parker was honored at pack meeting by obtaining all of the required badges to receive the rank of bear. His birthday isn't for another 4 months so he is very early. Now he is working on his arrows and already has two.Parker is very proud of his uniform and many belt loops. We were at the park after scouts last Wednesday and he boosted a friend up onto a high snake statue. His friend's Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00472845383264023152noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-561045137791150687.post-55650636251268038252009-02-20T08:22:00.000-08:002009-03-05T08:33:12.485-08:00We Sing America!On Friday, Grace participated in the "We Sing America" second grade program. She was very excited to perform and just loved the songs. Once her part was memorized, she memorized a bunch of other kids parts just in case they needed some help, got sick or had stage fright. This is such a wonderful development for Grace. She is no longer anxious about things and her confidence just keeps growing andMelissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00472845383264023152noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-561045137791150687.post-49873270726760904742009-02-19T19:04:00.000-08:002009-03-05T08:33:25.712-08:00The Third Little PirateKate participated in her first program today at the Magic Butterfly Preschool. She worked really hard all week and memorized her little part in the pirate puppet show and the creative genius inside of her added an extra line. She proudly took her place and clearly said, "The fird yiddle pirate holds the pirate flag. (Extra line added here: Him never puts it down.) Him always hold it straight and Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00472845383264023152noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-561045137791150687.post-2730417466770784512009-02-12T16:33:00.000-08:002009-02-12T17:35:59.890-08:00Happy Birthday Grandma Diane!Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00472845383264023152noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-561045137791150687.post-6046460723817129142009-02-08T19:26:00.001-08:002009-03-05T08:33:36.659-08:00Grace... Our Star!Grace is the star student in her second grade class. She's the star of our family too!The moment we first laid eyes on Grace we knew that she was someone special. She was perfect in every way. Her Grandma Kathleen said that she was as perfect and beautiful as a little china doll. Dozens of family members came to see Grace in her first minutes of life. She captured all of our hearts immediately!Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00472845383264023152noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-561045137791150687.post-43753557145520081572009-02-04T19:31:00.000-08:002009-02-05T15:48:06.922-08:00Disney's Biggest Fan... ME!I finally get the recognition I truly deserve! Thank you to all of my fans. Maybe I'll be able to pull some Disney strings for you. Everyone on your very best behavior!Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00472845383264023152noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-561045137791150687.post-21207650441482800602009-01-21T15:34:00.000-08:002009-01-21T16:09:24.347-08:00Pamela Jane Durrant Hunsaker, February 28, 1953 - January 4, 2009My Aunt Pam passed away January 4, 2009, after a courageous 10-year battle with cancer. Pam loved people and lived life passionately. She was a model of strength and perseverance. Her greatest joy and happiest hours were spent with her family. Pam created special moments for each of us.Melissa writes:My Pammy had a way of making everyone feel unconditionally loved in a way that only Pam could Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00472845383264023152noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-561045137791150687.post-69855203414328847002009-01-01T11:09:00.000-08:002009-03-05T08:33:52.039-08:00Happy New Year!It's hard to believe that another year has come and gone. 2008 left us with so much to be grateful for. This year we spent New Year's Eve in Utah at Aunt Mindy's house playing games, watching movies and eating delicious snacks in splendid Durrant fashion. The costumes were especially designed for each and every person at the party by Grace and Amanda. (They even made some for the older boy Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00472845383264023152noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-561045137791150687.post-23119276603132317382008-12-27T09:58:00.000-08:002009-03-11T16:06:55.161-07:00Sisters!Grace and Kate got matching cheetah girl outfits for Christmas from Grandma Diane. They soaked up the attention during their modeling session on top of the kitchen table. I love that they feel beautiful and confident. Work that camera girls! You are natural born stars.Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00472845383264023152noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-561045137791150687.post-34041632247102736912008-12-25T11:09:00.000-08:002009-03-05T08:34:04.253-08:00Christmas TraditionsMerry Christmas! When we moved away from family four Christmases ago we felt a huge need to start our own traditions. Things we could do with the five of us. So far, this is one of my favorite traditions. Every Christmas morning Wing makes crepes with all kinds of fruit, ice cream, whipped cream and cottage cheese. He also cooks meat, eggs and hash browns as side dishes. Everyone loves the feast Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00472845383264023152noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-561045137791150687.post-10998689335981843332008-12-24T11:08:00.000-08:002009-03-05T08:34:16.367-08:00The True Meaning of ChristmasThis was my favorite Christmas moment. The children never cease to surprise me. They took each part of the nativity so serious. Before we went over to Aunt Mindy's house, we had a mini family home evening and read parts of the nativity story that we don't read during the nativity program at the big party. Parker and Grace listened and read the scriptures so intently. Even Kate was reverent. We Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00472845383264023152noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-561045137791150687.post-21610335166318962922008-12-23T11:08:00.000-08:002009-03-05T08:34:27.091-08:00ZoolightsToday we decided to visit Hogle Zoo and see their Zoolight show. It was much better than we expected. Each animal section of the zoo had it's own animated lights. We didn't see many animals because of the cold weather, but the lights were beautiful. I was surprised that we stayed as long as we did. It was either freezing or hot and sweaty in the indoor animal viewing areas. Nor rain, nor sleet, Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00472845383264023152noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-561045137791150687.post-83921812404693419112008-12-22T11:06:00.000-08:002009-03-05T08:29:03.152-08:00Snow BabyKate just loved the snow in Utah. She was outside playing in the snow every chance she got until her little nose and fingers could take it no longer. Each trip outside required a small cup and spoon for her to dig with and make minnie snow castles. The snow must taste better in Henderson. She was eating the white stuff constantly. Here in Utah she just wants to play. Maybe all the talk about Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00472845383264023152noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-561045137791150687.post-18013166817646098312008-12-20T11:04:00.000-08:002009-03-05T08:29:15.773-08:00The Weather Outside Is Frightful... YIPEE!It's been a constant snow flurry in Utah... and we love it! We left our home in Henderson with 6 inches of snow to play in more snow in American Fork. The kids are taking full advantage of the white stuff and are outside playing in it as much as possible. Today Amanda fought her way through 4 different stores to get some sleighs for the kids and found these blue beauties. Amanda and I used to Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00472845383264023152noreply@blogger.com0