Party of Five

Happy New Year!!!

2012-01-04T12:55:00.000-08:00

It has been a while since I posted last, I don't even know who looks at blogs anymore, or at least mine?! With Facebook, Pinterest, and cell phones, I think you all know everything about me what I like to eat, read, watch, do etc. Well, 2011 was a great year for the Dean Family with yet another move, but in the same town! We sold our house in Clovis December 2010 and missed our nice yard space we used to have! In March of 2011 we found a rental in SLO or should I say they found us. The property management company called us and said they had a rental that we would probably be interested in! We fell in love with it and moved in a month later. Besides the fact it was $600 a month cheaper than our other rental, we were pretty stoked to have a nice big yard for the kids to play! Although, I find that we are not home as often as we used to be. With all 3 kids in school this year we are on the go! Ellie is in 3rd and the brother's are in Kindergarten. Ellie loves dancing and takes it 3 days a week. Brother's tried flag football, they were pretty cute, had no idea what they were doing, but it was good "Teamwork!" Speaking of "Teamwork" all 3 kids got that award at school last month. Pretty pumped about that. Anyhow, Jacob continues to work for pfizer as a pharmaceutical rep and I am launching R.I.P.P.E.D this month here in SLO! I love group exercise and now I am teaching! Thankful for the beautiful place in which we live and the wonderful friends we have here. May you have a great 2012 with many opportunities and memories to come!
Here is a recipe for homemade granola that I made last night! Super healthy! Super yummy! Enjoy!

6 cups oats
1/2 c Brown Sugar
2 tsp vanilla
1 or 1 1/2cup of applesauce (homemade or store bought) I used homemade delish!
1/2 c coconut (or not but I love coconut!)
1 c slivered almonds (or any nut)
2 tbs cinnamon
1/2 c organic Flax plus fine milled (I got it at costco 6 bucks for a huge bag) It is ground up can't taste it in the recipe but so good for you!!

Mix all together in a bowl then spread on sheets

Bake at 225 for 1 hour 15 min spread on 2 cookie sheets turn every 15 min cool completely
then store in an airtight container! This granola is chewy and yummy!! No oils or fats!

Summer Lovin'

2011-07-24T22:36:00.000-07:00

Ok, so these uploaded backwards, so I will start from the top here! We have been "super" busy, as my kids would say! "Super" is our new word this year! My cousin got married in San Diego, "super" fun wedding, danced the night away, need to post some pics of that! A trip to Legoland topped that trip all off:) Brother's turned 5!!! We had a bounce house/slide party! The waterslide was the hit...would totally recommend one! They have been doing a lot of sleeping in and we have had a lot of late nights...I have no idea how I am going to get 3 kids to school on time! The kids have been wanting to sleep together on a fort...in the living room, so we let em. We had our "Dean" Family reunion...3 days of no showers, dirt, swings, riding the motorcycle, campfires, and cousins left us with many great memories and ready to get home and get cleaned up:) I think in the pic there are over 30 kids...Ellie got baptized!! She turned 8 in April and we had such a great day at her baptism! Can't believe I have an 8 year old...enough said about that or I will start crying. Jacob and I got to sneak away to Maui to celebrate my 30th! Wow, we stayed at an amazing condo in Kanapali...ziplined, paddleboarded, golfed, swam, hung out with the Jonas brothers, got tan, all we were missing were the kids!!...next time! Phew, it has been a while since I have posted last but with facebook now, it is sort of taking over my blogging world. Hope you, whoever you are out there reading this are enjoying my life. This summer has been great and busy, I think we are savoring every moment before ALL our kids go to school!! Loving our new house and yard this summer, being outside is my favorite, and "Super" fun with my kids, priceless.

Moving again?!!

2011-03-15T20:08:00.001-07:00

So, yeah it sounds crazy, but we are moving again into a new house in SLO. Same town, new place! Long story, but let's just say we will be saving a ton of money, since our rent was a little crazy, our neighbor was a little well you know, and we had no back yard, or should I say we had a chicken coup! New house=big yard, hot tub, own space, close to freeway/downtown SLO and grass!...which we have missed dearly since moving from Clovis! So, off we go...we did not unpack a lot so yes, my garage is full of boxes filled with a bunch of who knows what, really I just want to go take it to goodwill but I am sure there are some valuable things in there. The movers packed us, so I do not know where anything is and frankly I do not even know what is in the boxes. We are excited to be close to downtown and get settled...again. Our life is an adventure, and it is showing me to hang on and ride it and have fun or you will go crazy. Even though I feel a little crazy right now. Jacob and I just open the garage stare at all the boxes and then shut it! ha:) For real, this is our 8th move, we will settle down someday:)

Merry Christmas!

2010-12-16T14:08:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year

This year has been exciting, new, crazy, stressful, and fun! This year has taught me to live each day to the fullest with your loved ones and friends. Be helpful, be kind, share, say I love you even when you are mad, concentrate on things that matter, life is a ride, are you on it?!

We sure had a ride this year when Jacob got laid off from his pharmaceutical job in March, to finding another job two weeks later, that he would start in May. Severance and time Jacob had, so off I went to work and coached gymnastics like crazy. Private lessons, more hours, and Jacob ended up being "Mr. Mom". I missed my kids and the routine I had, but I was so grateful for Jacob in wanting to help out plus giving me a chance to work and feel what it was like to be the one working! The kids were able to have memories and time with their Dad that I was so grateful for. So, one door closes another one opens and Jacob is working for Pfizer as a pharmaceutical Rep in SLO!

We moved in July and listed our house for Sale in Clovis. Ellie started 2nd grade, the brothers started pre-school, I have a few minutes to myself 3 days a week, which is nice!

My laptop, realtor, and real estate attorney became my best friends and we were on a quest to sell our house "short sale" style which I am happy to say sold!

Tragedy struck friends, jobs were lost, lives were lost, accidents happened, and this is why 2011 can only bring new experiences and opportunities to share our love and friendship to all those in need. Service is truly contagious and the biggest service that was given to us was that Jesus Christ died for us. We hope you can remember this, this holiday season and let your light shine!

Merry Christmas,
Love The Dean's
Jacob, April, Ellie, Cooper & James

Brothers 1st Day of Preschool!

2010-09-15T12:49:00.000-07:00

These guys started preschool yesterday! They are too cute getting ready for school in the morning. Quite different from their sister! They are up, dressed and ready to go! They truly are precious and I love that they are growing up and have each other. Never would have thought, once again, that I would have twins, but now it's moments like this picture that make me feel I am so lucky to be their mom!

Pickin' Apples

2010-08-29T17:58:00.000-07:00

We finally got to take Jacob to the Avila Barn! It is one of the kids favorite places! We went on the hayride and picked apples and Jacob is making an apple pie right now! I would really love to have my own farm and orchard. It would be beautiful to look at and yummy to eat! But a ton of work! I love the pic of cooper here to the left. He is our "challenging" child, well I guess all kids are challenging but he is especially "special". He is super smart and he knows it! Aughh! But doesn't he look so sweet in this pic?...makes me want to be more patient with him. By the way the ice-cream was amazing at the barn! Cupcake ice0-cream, oatmeal choc-chip and lime sorbet! Dad spoiled them and then we headed to the beach. Love having a day with the fam.

2nd grader!!!

2010-08-26T12:18:00.000-07:00

2nd grader!!! School has begun and Ellie's words were, "I can't believe summer is over!" But, we will still have fun! She had a great first day of school. Kids are so easy to adjust and I am grateful she is outgoing and makes friends easily! The twins start preschool in 2 weeks and I never worry about them. Twins always have each other and my boys think they are the bomb and can do anything! ha ha, they will hopefully keep that mentality. Things I noticed about Ellie as a 2nd grader:

-Confident

-Tall

-Mature

-cautious

-Curious

Well, I think Ellie will be just fine. Of course, my sleepless nights of worrying about her and wondering if our move would make things hard, I realized kids like adventures and love to learn! So, school is a good place! I will post The brothers in a few weeks, watch out! These boys are growing up!

10 years!!

2010-08-12T10:28:00.000-07:00

Jacob and I celebrated our 10 year anniversary yesterday!!! Here we are all together on our header! Wow, can't believe how much has happened in 10 years!!! Love my life and all the roads we have taken thus far:)

Summer almost gone!

2010-08-03T20:07:00.000-07:00

Peach picking in Avila, The beach, curly, curly hair, and 5 baby chicks!!! We are enjoying SLO and all our visitors who have come in just the 1st month of us living here!! School starts this month, can't believe it!! This summer has gone by way too fast!

"Move that Bus!"

2010-07-17T09:20:00.000-07:00

Well we celebrated 4th of July with our friends and then the moving truck came and we were off! It was like extreme makeover "Move that Bus!" They really got the hugest truck ever and it was really hideous. The truck was huge and it made quite a scene at our new neighborhood. We love it here in SLO and the weather is amazing!!! I guess when you move from the valley in the middle of summer it makes it feel even better! We had one hiccup along with the way with Ellie. She caught a nasty virus that involved fever for 5 days and ending in red dots all over her legs and swollen ankles! After an ER visit, blood work, doctor visit, urine sample, they have concluded it is a virus and will heal on it's own. So, life gets crazy but when it gives you lemons make lemonade right? At least I get to look out at the beautiful hills every morning from our front porch. We miss our friends though, so come visit!! We would love to have you:) Well, onto our next chapter in life. Always an adventure here, as buzz would say, "To infinity and beyond!"

Brother's turn 4/ movin' to SLO

2010-06-29T23:51:00.000-07:00

Well it is true, our babies are 4 years old, and we are so blessed to have them in our lives. Having a summer birthday will always mean, "fun in the sun!" So, we headed to GG and Papa's house for swimming with some cousins and 100 degree weather! They had been dying to swim since we have been at my parent's for the past week and a half with fog and sixty degree weather!

In a week we will be in 70 and 80 degree weather because, we are moving, to San Luis Obispo!! Craziness, here, but long story short, Jacob is still in pharmaceuticals, new company, new territory, new job, he took it and we are off! So, the best part is that we have movers moving us! In our 10 years of being married and our 5 moves, we have always done it ourselves...So this is a real treat. The kids are excited to be by the beach and start our new adventure there. You never know where life will take you, and be careful what you wish for, because you just might get it! We had planned on moving back to San Luis Obispo someday. Since we went to College there 10 years ago, we loved living there and of course had great memories, as we both fell in love with each other there. Now, we are headed back and can't wait to make new memories with our family. SLO here we come, with a 7 year old and two 4 year olds!! Watch out.

Ellie turns 7!

2010-05-20T08:45:00.000-07:00

Ellie turned 7! Crazy! So, this is how we roll. Ellie wanted to do something with her friends from school for her b-day. Tuesday invitations went out, friday was the party at the bowling alley! Last minute, yes, but it worked! Ellie wanted root beer floats for her class. My parents and Jay surprised Ellie at school on Friday for her b-day! It was a fun filled day. I gave all the kids red, white and blue crazy socks to wear while they were bowling! This was their "party favor". They all looked so cute in their socks! We had fun and can't believe Ellie is 7 going on 17. Now we are gearing up for the twins b-day in a month. They can't wait!

2010-04-22T08:37:00.000-07:00

I know the pic is old on my header but it is one of my fav's!! We have been going busy busy around here. As you can tell I have not updated the blog since January. Ironically, it is still raining!!! We have had some beautiful days mixed in with crazy storms. Ellie turns 7 next week! Can't believe how big she is getting. Well I wanted to write more, but I have to run! To be continued, just wanted to let you all know we are alive and doing well...

Rain, Rain and more Rain!

2010-01-20T14:16:00.000-08:00

Ok sorry Aunt Penni but I don't think I could live in Oregon! All this rain we have been having has only been a few days and I am needing a break. It is dark, cold and the kids are wanting to go on a bike ride right now! I would totally take them on one but it is coming down pretty good today. So I let the twins play in it and of course they had fun and then came in soaked and wanted hot chocolate and new clothes. The twins are now 3 1/2 and are slightly driving me a little crazy. They were good, now not so much. Why is it that they are angels when you are not trying to get anything done? The minute I start to do something, the whine, crying, and fighting begins!! Guess our kids just want our attention but so does my house and laundry! Ok so I think life will be better when it is spring. I love that time of year and it is the beginning of birthdays and almost summer! As for the shot of Ellie, any former Rising Star gymnasts reading this post will recognize the leotard!! It is my old one!! Yes, my mom kept some of my old stuff and now Ellie has a sack full. Not only has she worn this leotard to gymnastics but she also has been wearing my old sweatshirt that says, "Rising Star gymnastics Carmel CA" with my name APRIL down the sleeve to school. She says she never takes it off at school and it is her favorite sweatshirt. Really?! I mean I guess I am really cool to her right now. She tells everyone it is my old stuff and she looks so cute in it! Confident shall we say?! I am glad she is so proud of her mom's old stuff . I have a pic of me on my living room floor doing the splits just like Ellie. I need to find it mom and then post it with this one!

CTR

2010-01-04T10:32:00.000-08:00

We had a great Christmas at my parents house. The hits were skateboards and an easy bake oven! Jacob played golf, we enjoyed 70 degree weather on Christmas day!!! The new year has started and all my kids are in the primary at church! They all got their own "CTR" rings. This stands for "Choose The Right." They were so excited and proud to get their very own rings and I hope they can remember what it means! I love being a mother to my children. They make me so happy and yes they are growing up so fast! Today is the last day of break before Ellie goes back to school. Over the break I have enjoyed being with her...most of the time, and learned that she really looks up to me as her mother. Especially with little girls I need to remind myself to be the best mother and example to her. She watches my every move and wants to be just like me. Ellie says, everyone at school says she looks like her mother. At least she is proud of it and not humiliated! ha ha! We are raising our future and I hope my children can make the most out of theirs! So Here is to 2010! Make it a good one!

2009-12-13T13:14:00.000-08:00

So, lately I have reading others blogs reporting about their Christmas Decor and hot cocoa by the fire and pictures of their homes looking spiffy and nice. Our tree is small, our ornaments are few, my living room is half painted, my husband just fixed a leaky roof in the garage, and I look around and think...hmm, this is not spiffy and nice. I wish it was. I then attend church and come home remembering who sacrificed his all for us. Everything we have is because of him. Big or small I need to remember what I have is great!

December Sun!

2009-12-03T08:25:00.000-08:00

It is December and my kids are playing outside in the sun and swinging on the back porch. Gotta love California!

2009-11-28T23:02:00.000-08:00

We celebrated my friend Shaun's 29th b-day at the country club. Great food!!! I love going "Home" and seeing the beauty that surrounds me. The flowers are my dad's at work. Jacob spent the day at Carmel Beach with the twins while Ellie and I got pedicures with my mom. Wish everyday was a vacation! Loved watching Jason at therapy. He is standing in a "stand frame" now for about 20 minutes. It's great to see him on his feet. Thanksgiving was filled with food and family. Now, it is time for christmas parades, hot cocoa, and enjoying my children play with the nativity sets. Our lives can be stressful, crazy, and hard but when your with the one's you love, life is easy.

Pic of the Day

2009-11-08T23:35:00.000-08:00

Here is a pic of Jacob and Cooper. I am loving my Mac and new camera! I edited this photo and love it! Can't wait to practice some more. Love these guys:)

2009-11-04T14:18:00.000-08:00

Halloween is over?!!! We started our festivities with a trunk-or-treat on friday @ church. Saturday carved pumpkins and played outside in the beautiful weather!! Trick-or-treated around the block, the kids were done, and wanted to go home to answer the door for all the trick-or-treaters! This is always the best part of Halloween for our kids. Answering the door! We got the most trick-or-treaters this year and it was a lot of fun. Once again Ellie was a cheerleader, last year she will be able to wear that costume, brothers were superman and batman thanks to Aunt Buffy's skills with the capes! We ate candy in the living room and sorted out all the loot! At the end of the night Jacob made the kids try a sour warhead and then he had one himself. Can you tell?!! Love him:)

Cooper

2009-10-29T21:03:00.000-07:00

Here is a pic of cooper I took at the park today. Got a new camera from a friend at work to borrow and I think I might just have to buy it from him! I am no professional but the quality is def better than my camera. Love this boy!

2 wheels+2boys=Fun!!!

2009-10-28T21:30:00.000-07:00

Guess what the brothers learned this week?!! Riding their bikes with no training wheels! It has been so fun to watch them fully enjoy riding a bike. No offense to Ellie but she doesn't ride her bike a ton and it is not really her "thing". So...with the boys it is a different story! They can't get enough of their bikes! Since the twins were little we did lots outside. It went from stroller rides, to trike rides, to scooter rides, and now bike rides. I took them to the park that has cement wrapped around it so they could get the hang of it. Now, they are in the front yard wanting to show off to all the neighbors! It is funny because they have been riding their bikes with training wheels for about a year now and now that there are no training wheels I guess it is that much better! I love being outside and enjoying the sun and fresh air with these guys! Ellie on the other hand, will have no problem watching Hannah Montana all day wrapped up with a blanket and a cup of hot chocolate. I did not have time to watch t.v. at Ellie's age. I asked my mom if I wanted to watch movies and shows at Ellie's age and she said no! I was busy with school and gymnastics. Which Ellie just passed to Level 2 in gymnastics and will be going 2 days a week now. I think it is genetic. Ellie and Jacob could watch movies all day while me and the twins would be out riding bikes all day! Not sayin one way is better than the other just different, you know what I'm sayin? I better stop talking now. Later.

Football games, reading, Jay comes

2009-10-26T09:19:00.000-07:00

My brother Jason came to town for the weekend! Ellie had her primary program at church and my parents and Jay came over for it! Ellie did awesome! She had 3 sentences to read with big words and read it so well! Her reading has really taken off. As you can see she reads to the brothers all the time. It is nice because then I can just sit back and watch! I am glad she is enjoying reading. We have been busy this month so not much posting. I was sick for a good week with pneumonia!!! Well that's what they say it was but I was out for a week in bed mostly! Not fun! Our neighbors/babysitters had their homecoming game and Rachel got Princess! We went last year and her sister Leah got princess! This is Ellie's highlight of October. She is in her element at these games. We sit next to the band, we are down in front near the cheerleaders and she dances to every song that is played! Fireworks are set off after we score a touchdown and we scored a few so that was fun! I found James pumpin' some iron on Jacob's push up bars. It was so cute! He really had good form and was trying to be like "Dad"! When do your kids stop trying to be like you? Oh how I wish I could freeze the twins age right now. I hope they keep their innocence and love for us forever! Love this time of year and we are off to the pumpkin patch tonight! Loved having my parents and Jay in town. I miss them!! Ellie has been telling her class that she is moving to the beach after Christmas...hmm that would be nice! Someday:) I gave my little brother a pep talk about "giving mom and dad a break" I asked him if he wanted to live at home for the rest of his life and he said, "No way!" He is progressing with something every time I see him. I just wish he could be all better today! So, in our culture patience is truly a virtue because we all want it "now" and for Jason his now is going to come... just not "now".

Did you see it?

2009-10-07T20:26:00.001-07:00

Nie Nie on Oprah today! Did you see it?? If you look on my fav sites you can see her blog. Her story is amazing and makes you appreciate your life and your struggles. As my struggles are different than hers I see a lot of me in her. A mother, a wife, a friend to many and one who enjoys her children and loves to write about them! I think of her and her family often.

October is Here!!

2009-10-02T08:32:00.000-07:00

I can't believe it is October already! The weather is great, the colors are fabulous, I switched to my Orange purse and my fall clothes are slowly creeping into my wardrobe again! I think my house is turning into an "Orangefest" but I love the color! Last night I got to spend some alone time with Cooper while Ellie and James were already in bed. With having twins it is easy to always have the two of them with you at ALL times. Lately, we have been trying to spend one-on-one time with them and it is so fun! I asked Cooper what he wanted to be when he grew up and he said, "Homework"! ha ha! He sees Ellie doing homework and he always wants to do homework like her! Maybe he will be something that entails him being in school for a very long time! So, those of you that have more than one child out there try this "one child" thing it is pretty fun! I love my kids and being a mom! Each day should be enjoyed and not endured! They are only little once, right?!! p.s. Loved the picture of the pumpkins I took last year!

TARGET!

2009-09-17T22:01:00.001-07:00

I don't know if you are a Target fan but if you are go ONLINE NOW! They are having great deals ONLINE ONLY. Their shoes are buy one get one HALF OFF! Needless to say I just checked out with 6 pairs of shoes, 2 for me, 2 for Ellie, 2 for the boys, we are set! Plus FREE SHIPPING! SALE ENDS SEPT 19th! SHOP NOW! Have fun!! p.s. they have some super cute furniture too! Those chairs with no arms, fabulous!

Paint Color!!

2009-09-16T21:20:00.000-07:00

Ok so I am going crazy with paint swatches all over my house. We are looking for a light brown, taupe, neutral, go everywhere color. What are some good ones out there?? I do not want anything in the pink hue category. I never knew paint color could be so difficult! There are so many! Let me know...Thanks:)

"Sparthenian of the Month!" Put ur hands together...

2009-09-10T22:47:00.000-07:00

Here are just a few faces that were so proud of Ellie!! She got Student of the month at her school! It is the highest honor and she got it her first month of school! We were very proud of her and wanted to make it a big deal by having GG and Papa there as well as my Aunt Gaye and cousin Michelle. I think it is important to make these things a big deal. Although there will be many more awards ceremonies between Ellie, Cooper and James we hope we can acknowledge them and make them feel special and proud of themselves each time! Ellie's school is the Cowboys, so of course the new Hannah Montana movie soundtrack is perfect for their Rally's. The cheerleaders were dancing to this song as they walked into the cafeteria. Ellie stared at them and then did some dance moves in line. Nice. I bought her the Hannah Montana movie for a job well done and it is a way cute movie! Even Jacob and I loved it! Way to start first grade off Ellie!

Lake Nacimiento & a 1st grader!!

2009-08-24T21:42:00.000-07:00

So, we ended our summer with a trip to Lake Nacimiento, which is near Paso Robles. We love it there! This is the lake I fell in love with my husband even more! We would take lake trips all the time at this lake in College and it is always a good time! We went with Weir and Amanda who are expecting a baby girl in January! The kids did great, being this was their 1st time tubing and being on a boat for 5+ hours! Weir introduced us to surfing behind the boat! "skurf"! So fun! I of course couldn't let go of the rope, but Jacob did awesome! Ellie got knocked off the tube once. Yeah that was pretty much the end of her tubing days for this year. Pics to come. The boys loved holding the flag up when someone fell and sitting at the tip of the boat like the "captain". I think Weir and Amanda are a little scared to have a child now! ha! Just kidding. After spending 2 days on the lake with us and our 3 kids! You never know what might happen:

-James eating it on his scooter down a hill, denting his helmet.

-Stayed up till midnight watching the new Hannah Montana movie. Ellie asked to rewind every part!

-Ellie telling everyone she didn't get a good night sleep because her Dad was "tooting"

-Kids staying up way past their bed times

-Kids having growing pains during the night

-Feeding the deer, and then letting the dogs out of the gate, scaring them away! Aughh!

-Sitting on the golf cart wishing and hoping one of those buttons would make it go!

-Crying, laughing, giggling, cheering, chasing, Chill out!!

Needless to say they were excited to end our summer with the lake.

Now we have a 1st grader!!! Ellie had her first day of school today and she did great. Me, not so much. I thought school ended at 3:15, no 3:00. Oops! I really hope this is not a theme this year! My goal is to not be late...as much. It is a bad habit and I guess casually late doesn't count in school. The brothers and me had a great day together. I never had 2 kids, but I really liked it. We were all happy to see Ellie at 3:07.

My new Office

2009-08-12T11:15:00.000-07:00

Ok so here is my new office...still in progress so give me some tips? I want to change the faceplate on the switch, it is off white, doesn't go, I think I want to put pulls on the drawers that match the kitchen, and I will try to find a before pic, because it looked like old man office with wood and it was way too dark! What do you think? I am going feng sheui?! Not sure how to spell, but love how there is no clutter?!! I do!!!

Summer lovin

2009-08-03T10:58:00.000-07:00

This summer I think we have spent only a few days at home. Jacob and I at the Fray concert, me and the kids at Beauty and the Beast, Swimming at the Burnetts house everyday, the twins with GG on their B-day! She bought them a vacume and a bunch of balls! This picture turned out a little blurry but I liked it! And...going to the beach a lot! Here we are in Avila with all the cousins. They were burrying Uncle Andrew. It was fun, the kids got in the water!! Burrr! But it was fun! So, school starts this month and I am going to have a 1st grader! Well, now that we are home we are hitting the pavement. Boys have their 3 year old check up, shots, the whole enchilada! So, off I go to being a mother, friend, wife, housekeeper, cook, taxi cab, and just a little crazy, not much though.

Park Day?

2009-07-13T22:11:00.000-07:00

Ok Friends who are in town, what day(s) is good for a park day? I want to start one at 9:00 a.m. for summer. I am out of town a lot just like you but whoever is in town can get together! School is around the corner and then we can get more serious about it. But, in the meantime: I am going to go to the new park on Clovis and Alluvial with the spiderman thing you can climb on. And the park has those covers over most of the park! Bonus, for my toe heads. So, I will be there Friday morning at 9:00 a.m. if you want to come. Great set up, bring a snack, water, and all your kids.

Fourth of July 09

2009-07-06T10:39:00.000-07:00

Our Fourth was spent at my parent's house! So fun! Weather was awesome, Jacob played golf, we ate outside, it was not your traditional "fog fourth" in Pebble Beach! We did our own fireworks because there were not any in Monterey this year. It was just as good because the kids had so much fun with the sparklers and poppers. We then watched the Washington fireworks on t.v. Ellie spent two weeks with Grandma and now wants to move in! So, we are all back under one roof together. Ellie and my little bro Jay are so cute together. She loves spending time with him! It was nice to cool off so now back to the heat!

Could it be? 3?!

2009-06-30T10:13:00.000-07:00

The brothers turned 3 yesterday!!! Wow! Can't believe it! We had a great day with just them. Ellie is still at my parents house and I enjoyed just 2 kids! We went swimming, ate pizza for dinner, then went to ice-cream, then went to toys-r-us. Although the baby stage is precious, sweet and tiring I am glad we are moving on to a new chapter in our book! Cooper & James, you came into our lives tiny and sweet and today you are growing boys full of light and love! Thank you for making me a mommy of twins! Who would have thought! Me, with twin boys??! You are awesome and bring so much joy to our lives. Happy Birthday!

Ellie's a 1st grader!

2009-06-16T14:43:00.000-07:00

Well Ellie is officially done with Kindergarten! The kids were all excited for this day. Ellie was excited because she got to sing on stage. Let me tell you, Ellie on stage is a riot to watch. She becomes shall I say...Sharpay from High School Musical. Really, she is quite the performer. Comments like, "Is that your daughter?!" I am proud of her confidence and all that she has learned this year. Cooper is in the yellow. He is always ready. He is the first one up usually, wants to get dressed and ready for the day, and is always excited to go somewhere. James on the other hand, is usually the sleeper-inner, and the first thing he says when he wakes up is, "I want to eat." I loved this picture of them!

2009-06-08T14:25:00.000-07:00

Here are some random pics, I have really been slacking on my blog! Cooper is driving the golf cart at Jacob's office. They have golf carts to get to and from places at his storage unit/office. They look so "golferish". Cousin William and Ellie are both missing their top two teeth! How cute! Ellie talks a little funny, and I love listening to her. We went to this town called "Exeter" near Visalia where Jacob grew up. We went with his sister Missy and family and his parents. It is a great place for pics! I am taking the kids back there and doing a photo shoot. Really cute town. They have all these murals painted on the walls. The kids loved looking at these, and posing in front of them. Can you see Ellie? Yeah she is quite the poser. Anyhow, good times, we had fun. School's out for Summer this Friday! Woohooo!!

Summer is here?!

2009-06-03T12:11:00.000-07:00

Well Ellie has her last week of school next week! I will have a first grader! Aughhh! Weather has been hot, hotter, cool, cooler. So, not quite summer yet, but love this time of year! I have my clothes line out, my electric bill was $35 last month. Seriously. Jacob took this sweet picture of an amaryllis in our backyard. Love it! And...my sis-in-law had her 6th baby....a girl! For those of you who know "Buffy" she has 5 boys, and now has a sweet little girl named Elise. The kids love holding her especially Ellie. So I think we are up to 18 grandkids on Jacob's side. Wow.

B-days & Mother's Day!

2009-05-11T11:26:00.000-07:00

Ellie turned six last week! Her day consisted of popsicles at school, panda express for dinner, powell's candy store, then the new hannah montana movie with dad! My b-day was friday the big 28! wohoo! Had a great day, massage, dinner with Jacob, shopping, no kids! My babysitter and neighbor down the street Leah did my hair! Loved it! She got the Taylor Swift curling iron. I felt like I was 16 again having a 16 year old do my hair. She is awesome and I hope Ellie can do my hair someday:) I love being a mother and my kids made me one, so thanks to them I am a mom! Happy Mother's Day to all of you girls out there! I look up to you and enjoy seeing your blogs filled with love and care for your children!

Pure Joy!

2009-05-06T10:55:00.000-07:00

The finale of our spring break. Bonfante Gardens!! Loved it, the kids loved it, no crowds, a mini disneyland! The secret is out! This is the place!! Mainly for kids 10 and under. Ellie went on the banana ride for her first ride! Notice my face. I was scared! She had a blast! Went on it 6 times. Cooper is in the first pic. Great shot. Pure joy!

Spring Break part 2

2009-04-14T10:15:00.000-07:00

Spring Break was much needed for the Dean fam and the kids had a blast. We ended up staying in a hotel in Pismo Beach, which was awesome! Highly recommend the Oxford Suites. Continental hot buffet breakfast, appetizers and free drinks at night, heated pool, jacuzzi, kiddie pool, great rooms! Of course didn't get any pics of that, too busy! Ellie remembered how to swim from last year! Yeah! The boys still a little timid. We then went to visit my dad for the night. The kids love their "pappy!" He gave them a ride on the cemetery lawn mower! Nice! James is in front of the James Dean memorial. Jacob just had to peel out as we were leaving. Thought it was cool. Yes, we were in the charger, and people were staring, 3 kids in the back, and a reckless driver, it was fun though! We got the kids this swing at target, the neighbors have one, and they loved it. Now, I think I might need to buy 2 more. My kids hate sharing it. Ellie was born to swing. She loves it and could swing all day long, singing hannah montana, and her own songs. This is a pic of Cooper. True happiness on a swing! Then, we went to Gilroy Gardens...pics to come. It was awesome!!!

Spring Break Day 1!

2009-04-06T21:03:00.000-07:00

Ellie had a girlfriend from school over and her sister today! Beautiful weather, opened windows, doors, everything fresh and lively with little ones running around! Here is how some of the conversation went:

Ellie: "Look at me I am a superstar!"

Friend: "Ellie, how old are you?"

Ellie: "5!"

Friend: "Ellie your brother is naked!"

Ellie: "Oh, it's ok he is like that all the time!"

Friend: "April one of the brothers went potty in Ellie's room on her rug!"

Me: "Oh, ok honey, why don't you guys go outside and play while I clean it up!"

Friend: "Ellie your brother is naked!"

Ellie: "Which one?"

Friend: "I don't know they look the same naked!"

Ha I just have to laugh at these little conversations with Ellie's friends! She had such a fun day!I thought it would be fun to kick off spring break with friends, fun and sun! We slip-n-slided, decorated cakes, played dress up, listened to Hannah Montana over and over! It was pretty funny watching "the brothers" interact with them. Oh they are going to love having an older sister! Hopefully they won't be running around naked at 16. Watch out girls!

Lately

2009-04-02T12:32:00.000-07:00

So lately we have been a little sick, lazy, no cookin, messy, house! Ellie was diagnosed with a mild case of pneumonia this week! So she has been home all week from school. The cooking has consisted of Cooper's favorit, Cup-o-noodles! Loves that stuff, so bad for you! Anyhow, Ellie folded my laundry, had to take a pick of that! She is so diligent and always wants to be the "mommy". Our bed has become our kids favorite spot to read. So, Sunday afternoon Jacob took this pic of us. I had just woken up from a nap...so excuse the bed head. We have been living in our backyard! Love this weather. Next week is spring break. Hope all is healthy and ready to have some fun!

Great Walk

2009-03-17T13:45:00.000-07:00

We had a great weekend for my little brother's walk! Great turn-out and Jason was thrilled to have so many friends and family there. The weather was perfect and my kids were pooped by the time we got back in the car! Oh and Jacob brought me flowers the other day and of course Ellie thought they were for her! Can you tell?? Watch out boys, high maintenance!

Thank you

2009-03-13T08:37:00.000-07:00

Thank you to all that helped donate and or sign up for my little brother Jason's benefit walk for CALBIA. We raised over $4,000 for the association! The walk is tomorrow in bakersfield! I will post some pics after this weekend. Go to caringforjay.blogspot.com for more info.

Rodeo yee-haw!

2009-03-09T10:39:00.000-07:00

Ok so Saturday we all woke up and Jacob said, "We are going to the rodeo!" It was actually the High Schools Rodeo. High School? Yes, here in Clovis we have roping, bull riding, barrel racing, as a sport in High School?! Wow! It was awesome, free, and loads of entertainment. We actually went back after we took a break to eat lunch at Costco and run some errands. They wanted to go back! As you can see, they had front row seats and their eyes were glued. It was so nice! Not too many people and a ton of horses! Ellie and the boys would cheer every time the horses came out of the shoot and say go, go, get him! This was when they were roping! The girls were all blinged out in their fancy belts, chaps, hats, etc. It was sooo fun! I love how we can all go out as a family and enjoy ourselves now. Finally! oh and the underwear pic, just for fun! They are seriously so entertaining! Ellie is our serious one, the twins, not so much.

Who's got a dollar?!!!

2009-03-07T08:29:00.000-08:00

Ok Times are rough, people aren't really "spending money", so in order to help meet my little brother Jason's goal I am holding a "dollar blog-a-thon for Jay"! This money goes towards the California Brain association. There is a benefit walk next Saturday that we are involved in. My cousin Brenda has been our team leader and our goal is $3,ooo! We are almost there! So, I thought these few extra bucks would help us out! If you would like to visit Jason's Team Page go to caringforjay.blogspot.com and click on the bottom of his blog "Team Page". It will take you to his page for the benefit walk. On the website you can only donate $25 and up so if you want to donate a buck send it to me and I will put it in with all the other donations I have on Wednesday March 11! 1 dollar and you can make a huge difference. It's a no brainer! ha! I have been told not to put my address on an "open to the public" blog so if you are interested in helping out email me at adeangirl@gmail.com and I can give you my address. Thank you!

March Already?

2009-03-02T22:36:00.000-08:00

Here is a better pic of Ellie with her ears pierced! so cute, she loves them and takes such good care of them. And then there are the kids with their glasses on brought home from Dad's business trip. What exactly do they do while they are gone on business? They kept cracking each other up. Don't forget daylight savings Saturday. Is it seriously almost spring? I can't wait!!

American Idol

2009-02-20T09:30:00.000-08:00

Here is a little video of Cooper and Ellie...

Good Times

2009-02-20T09:12:00.000-08:00

We had a great weekend at my parent's house! Visiting with old friends, going to the my museum, good food, the AT&T golf tournament. Boy, we miss living there! The kids got into some old hats. It was pretty funny. Our good friends the Conroy's were over. Lily and Ellie always find something to get into! Oh and James is in the straw hat! Isn't he so cute! Every time I take a pic of the twins I think, oh that is a good yearbook pic! :) Oh and Ellie has 2 teeth lost now and she got her ears pierced on V-day! You can kind of see the bling in her ears here. Self portrait. Nice gap.

Walk for my bro!

2009-02-10T14:05:00.000-08:00

If you want to support the CALBIA "California Brain Association" we will be walking for my little brother Jason on Saturday March 14 in Bakersfield CA. All the info is on his blog caringforjay.blogspot.com. Check it out, it is $25 for registration and includes a t-shirt! All proceeds go to the association to help those that have have Tramatic Brain injuries. If you want to come that would be great! Jason has his own account as well if you would like to donate to that instead of for the association. We have had several generous donations come our way for Jay when he first had his accident. He will be going home to live with my parents in April sometime. We need all the support we can get right now! Thanks!

p.s. This is one of my favorite pics of my brother with Ellie. She was just 2 1/2 years old!

question

2009-02-08T11:53:00.001-08:00

I am nervous to change my blog background because last time I did that I lost all my friends blogs. How do you all change your background and header? What websites are good? I have looked and there are a lot! I am wanting to get more festive, I love Valentine's Day and the colors, so let me know if you have time and give me details please. Like how to do it. Thanks:)

Afros & No Teeth!

2009-02-03T08:19:00.000-08:00

Ok so the pic of the two in the afros, the girl is my cousin Brenda and her boyfriend Brian! They had a 70's theme b-day party for Brenda at the roller rink! We tye-dyed shirts with our neighbors for the whole family and I thought I was creative! Check our her one piece!! It was awesome! It zipped up. Of course she looked fab in it and her boyfriend was just hilarious. White shorts! nice. Ellie skated with me while the boys watched. And then...Ellie lost her first tooth! Now, the one right next to it is wiggly too! I can't believe it. Within weeks of each other my boys are potty trained and my daughter is loosing teeth! I guess they have to grow up.

Blue

2009-01-29T15:07:00.000-08:00

Ok real quick I am painting my laundry room, and I want to paint it a LIGHT blue...any good color suggestions?!! There are way too many colors at lowes and I am getting overwhelmed, I want a calm, blue color. Anybody know of a good blue?

What have we been up to?

2009-01-28T09:48:00.000-08:00

We have news!!!! The twins wear big boy underwear now!!!!! This has been quite the experience potty training two boys at once. Besides their bathroom smelling like pee all the time, their aim has gotten better, and after drilling it into them, they have to wash their hands EVERY time!! EEW gross! I must say I love how boys can go anywhere, anytime. For instance, I pulled over the other day on the way home. It was near an orchard, no cars, perfect! He went! I couldn't believe it. I have learned where every bathroom is in target, lowes, the grocery store etc. They always have to go right when we get there! Ughh, but I love taking them, because yeah no more diapers!!! Well, sort of. As they are following in their sisters footsteps, they grab a diaper to go #2, then run and hide! So, 2 diapers a day is better than 6! If you have any suggestions for getting them to go on the toilet for #2, let me know. Until then, wohoo, my boys are getting big!

Great Food Blog!

2009-01-12T17:48:00.000-08:00

Ok there is a blog called favfamilyrecipes.blogspot.com. I got it from my friend Lindsey. It has great recipes and easy!!! Check it out! I just made the "Cafe Rio pulled pork burritos". I have only been to Utah about 5 times but there is a restaurant called Cafe Rio there. Great mexican food. I made it last night and it turned out! If you are anything like me, easy, fast and good is what I like! Enjoy:)

Happy New Year!

2009-01-01T22:00:00.000-08:00

Happy Birthday Jacob! Happy New Year everyone! We spent New Years Eve in the snow with Jacob's brother and his wife. We all skied/snowboarded and had lots of fun! These guys are good.

Christmas 2008

2008-12-29T21:42:00.000-08:00

Friends, Family, and fun! We had a great Christmas. Yes, Ellie is wearing my Gymnastics jacket from when I was little! The kids were fun to watch and I am still trying to organize everything! Here is a pic of my mother-in-laws handy work! She made us aprons! I love it! Here are the cousins on the Dean side of the family, yes there are a lot of us. Cooper wrapped up in a stocking at the Burnett's house, our neighbors down the street they are awesome! As they say, The more the merrier! Happy New Year! May 2009 bring you lots of good memories!

Christmas Cards!

2008-12-09T14:45:00.001-08:00

If your address has changed since last December please let me know ASAP! I just got my Christmas cards and now it is time to address them and send them off! You can email me at adeangirl@gmail.com or post it on here. Thanks so much!

Open to the Public

2008-11-24T18:38:00.000-08:00

Ok so I tried this private blog thing and you can only have 100 readers have access to your blog....so I don't know how to get around that! I enjoy reading others blogs and I want others to enjoy mine. So, please let me know if there is any other way to track who is reading my blog let me know! So enjoy and I am sorry about the confusion!

Emails Please

2008-11-15T14:42:00.000-08:00

Ok so now the hard part. Thanks for all the input on going private for my blog. I am doing this tomorrow...Sunday!! So attention all readers, send me your e-mail so I can invite you to read my blog. I know it is sort of a pain but I really need to get this done. It has only taken me a week...pretty good! Thanks

Private?

2008-11-11T09:25:00.001-08:00

How do I make my blog private? I am getting a little anxious and wondering what the pros are of going private. If you have info regarding this please comment. I think I might venture and go private with my blog. How do I do it?

Zoo Boo

2008-11-03T22:01:00.000-08:00

So this was one of our events for Halloween! It was "zoo boo". You go around the zoo at night and trick or treat and get to see the animals. Pretty cool, lots of candy, and of course, in-n-out after! The boys love having their faces painted and so then Ellie of course had to have hers done too. They were tigers for halloween. My mom took some pics of them, Halloween is so crazy and busy and fun I forgot to take my own pics of that night. So, this will do! I can't believe it is November and it is raining, and it is dark at 5:00. I love it! A nice change and the kids are in bed earlier. By the way the pics are of James and Dad...if you couldn't tell! ha ha

Take 5

2008-10-23T21:26:00.000-07:00

Ok this candy bar is awesome!! It is that time of year again and my house is stocked with candy galore. Let me just tell you this is my favorite candy bar. Made with: chocolate, caramel, pretzels, peanuts and peanut butter. My favorite combination all in one delicious bite! By the way it is called "Take 5". Try it today! Ok I just read this over and I feel like it is an info mercial, but oh well, it is the best!

Yes on Prop 8

2008-10-22T10:35:00.000-07:00

Every house on my street has this sign in their yards. Family values and marriage should be taught from the home not from our public schools. I don't remember learning about "Adam and Steve" in school. We will respect everyone but not require our children to learn about others "ideas" on marriage in school. YES on 8! It makes sense.

Enough said:)

Love is in the Air...

2008-10-15T21:35:00.000-07:00

My good friend Melissa got married this weekend! It was at firestone vineyard and beautiful! Ellie got to be the flower girl and she was so good. I was so proud of her!

Here is the wedding party. All I have to say is Gorgeous!

Here is Weir with Cooper. Our good friends watched the twins for the weekend! 2 nights!!! They were so brave and kind to watch them for us. They do not have any kids yet so this was really awesome of them to spend their weekend with Cooper and James. They loved it and we wish we lived next door!

Afternoons, Ellie and a bed!

2008-09-25T10:07:00.000-07:00

Does your kitchen look like this say around 4:00 in the afternoon? I thought this picture says it all: Ellie doing her homework before gymnastics, me making dinner, the sonic drink from happy hour, the brothers on the counter, "helping".
Here is Ellie for picture day yesterday. She thought she looked good, so did I! She loves it when I do her hair like this, she has so much of it!
The highlight of our month was that Ellie finally got a bed for her room. She had been using one of the twins beds until they could use them. So, now that the brothers have their beds she has one! The best part was, it was given to us! This was my friend Kelly's bed when she was little, she had two of them, so she gave us one! Love Friends and Free stuff! Thanks Kelly, she will have many great memories of this bed I am sure!

Soccer has begun!

2008-09-12T08:29:00.000-07:00

Ok seriously, she is so cute and posed even on the soccer field!
Here she is in action! I am so excited to watch a game! Love the shin-guards. I loved playing soccer in High School, it was so much fun!
Here is the stud! Cooper posing for Dad. Jacob took all these pics for me and I love them! Cooper is always ready for a shot. Watch out you might see him on a billboard someday:)

Sept So Far...

2008-09-09T14:24:00.000-07:00

My little mozarts painting on the back patio. Aren't they angelic? Well at least in this picture they look like they are! They were so serious and concentrating so hard.
James on our family movie night. We watched "The BEE Movie"! So cute! They all loved it because they could eat popcorn!
An apple a day keeps the doctor away! They were all so cute sitting here on the fireplace eating their apples.
This was the best find ever! I found this wagon on craigslist, my favorite website to date! The boys love this wagon. I stroll the kids to school in it, while Ellie holds one of the brothers on her lap with an umbrella for shade. I will get a pic of that! It is so cute to hear all of them giggling on the way to school. I wish I could freeze those moments and make them last forever!

Brides & Babies!

2008-09-05T13:54:00.000-07:00

Here are my good friends from High School! The one on the end in all black is getting married next month...and
Ellie is going to be the flower girl! She was so cute at her bridal shower. She handed her all the gifts and made sure she stayed hydrated by giving her sips of her drink! So cute!
Here is a pic of Paso Robles where we went for my friend Sarah's baby shower. She is having a little girl Lily and she currently has Mr. G who is 3! So perfect a boy and a girl! She truly is one of the greatest friends a girl could have. Jacob took this pic while driving, beautiful skyline in Paso.

Plane crash

2008-08-27T23:31:00.001-07:00

I came across this blog from a friend of mine and I just found it so captivating that I wanted to post it. It is nieniedialogues.blogspot.com. A couple living in Mesa Arizona were in a private plane crash and are in intensive care burn unit. Their story is very interesting and I feel like it could be me. The girl is my age (27) and the husband kind of looks like mine...I just felt like passing on the info so you can include them in your thoughts and prayers. Thanks Mia for sending it:)

Ellie starts Kindergarten!!

2008-08-25T17:00:00.000-07:00

Ellie's 1st day of Kindergarten!!! Her first comment when she got home was, "That was really long!" She said she was glad to be home...augh, isn't that sweet!

Here is Ellie in front of our Orange tree, a tradition I have started since last year!

Here are the brothers and Ellie with clothes on!!! I guess we have to wear clothes now that school is back in session. I think the boys need private reform catholic school?! I dressed them uniform style. Watch out teachers, here they come!
So, a little pet peeve of mine...if I hear one more time, "Boy, you have your hands full!!"...I just might go crazy. Do I look like I have my hands full?? ha ha, as I am writing this I Just realized I only have one earring is as well, so off to find that.

Friends Blogs

2008-08-21T09:23:00.000-07:00

Ok so I got a new template and then I lost all my friends blogs? Does anybody know how I can retrieve this? When you get a new template do you erase what was there? Ok so if you can e-mail me or comment on this post with your blog please! Thanks:)

Big Boy Beds & Babysitters

2008-08-20T11:03:00.000-07:00

I wish there was no red eye in this pic, but I snapped it fast! So, we officially have no cribs in our house!! Amazing! We put up the "Big Boy Beds" the other night, and of course, they love them!

Here is Ellie and cooper! Aren't they cute?! Kind of look alike in this pic, same smile:)

This is not the best pic but I still need to put up their chair rail and organize the toys, etc, but it is looking like a big boy room! They have been sleeping good and no more climbing out of their cribs!!! Yeah!

I just had to post this pic for fun. These girls Lia and Rachel are my babysitters! They live down the street and are awesome! It is so convenient, they have a pool, we have a tramp, life is good!
p.s. Cooper is wearing Ellie's headband

Jay's blog

2008-08-15T08:28:00.001-07:00

For those of you that have been asking about my little brother I have started a blog with weekly updates for family and friends to look at. His blog is caringforjay.blogspot.com or you can simply click on Jay Leach on my blog. Thanks for all your prayers and concern for my little brother.

8 years 8-11-08

2008-08-11T15:14:00.000-07:00

Today we have been married 8 years! What?! I'm livin the dream!
8 years, a house, good jobs, 3 kids later, 2 at the same time, phew...
life is good and thanks to my college roomate Sarah and the church,
we fell in love.

Slippin n' slidin

2008-07-29T22:37:00.000-07:00

Here is Ellie, Cooper(Right), James (left)smiling, running towards the infamous slip-n-slide. This has been the highlight the past couple of days. It is too hot to go anywhere, gas prices are not so great, and believe it or not my kids enjoy being at home, and I am trying to enjoy this time before school starts and we are back on a schedule and life gets crazy! It is nice to just lounge and not have to have anything planned.

Here are the brothers sliding, Cooper is in front, they were quite entertaining! Of course, this activity involved being naked, water, and chasing each other. What more could you want?!

Here is Ellie... in front of course, followed by Cooper, then James. They all look like they are running a marathon! They would start by the side of the house and wrap all the way around and make their entrance.

Here is Cooper going down, once again, a fine investment this summer, our plastic pool backwards! He loves doing this and even though the slide is little it made him happy! Thank you Toys R Us!

Tree house!

2008-07-22T14:19:00.000-07:00

So here is an awesome tree house! We went to Jacob's good friends The Blaine's house last weekend where this tree house was lifted by a crane crew and bolted into this tree stump. We saw the whole thing take place. Pretty cool!

Here is Ellie enjoying it till dark! She of course loved it when she practically had it to herself. It was pretty high up there, but once again so cool for the kids!

Here is James, his favorite thing to do was swing on this rope. I would push him and he would hang on for dear life.

The brothers in the Mini Cooper. This is Baretts, Jacob's best man from our wedding owns this awesome old school Mini. James is drivin, Cooper is chilin. We will have one of these someday!

Best Friends Forever "BFF"

2008-07-16T10:25:00.000-07:00

Here is Cooper in the Yellow and James in the blue. We had all last week to ourselves while Ellie was at Summer School Camp at GG's. It was so fun to have the boys play! They truly are hilarious to watch. Uncle Michael this shirt is for you, you can't see the plane but there is one under "Jet Setter"

Jacob brought these home from his parents house. These were Jacob's when he was little! The boys love them! They set them up and it is so funny! I thought this was a good shot. All boys like the Army men. Be all you can be!!

Baseball or bust!

2008-07-08T13:15:00.000-07:00

The Dean Family, cousins, aunts, uncles went to the b-ball game for fireworks, food and fun!

This is Cooper, loved the step!

This is James, eating a churro this inning...:)

Ellie & cousin Emma! They are so cute together! Ellie's favorite part of the game was getting the sno-cone around the 5th inning! She did better this year and only plugged one ear during the fireworks.

My Kids and Me

2008-07-03T11:59:00.000-07:00

So this pic was taken with Jacob's fun saver camera from his last business trip. Turned out pretty good without being digital and all. Anyhow I was watching the today show the other morning and the topic was, "Does having children make you a happier couple or not?" Guess what the verdict was...No!! Can you believe it! Well I just have to say that my children make me and Jake a happier couple. We love our children and each other. The world is trying to tell us otherwise. My kids make me love my husband even more. Cheers to having children!

"The brothers turn two!"

2008-06-29T22:44:00.000-07:00

Cooper, looking handsome!

James, laughing, he wouldn't sit still! Not much of an eventful day, church, nap, cupcakes, cousins, bedtime. We will need to do something special later for them. Can't believe it has been two years, we made it! Wish us luck this year:)

Jason

2008-06-25T13:04:00.000-07:00

My little brother Jason got in a serious car accident Saturday morning. He is in intensive care and fighting for his life. Your thoughts and prayers are appreciated and I just want my little bro to know he has angels watching over him. We love you

Happy Father's Day!

2008-06-15T17:28:00.000-07:00

To my dad who is a man of integrity, good laughs, and loves his family! Love you!

To my father-in-law who is a man of unconditional love for everyone! Love you!

To my husband who is the father of our children who spends the time, energy and money on keeping us all happy! Thanks we love you!

Great vacation!!

2008-06-03T13:22:00.000-07:00

Our Vacation started with floor seats and Carrie Underwood! Awesome!!!

My little bro graduating from the fire academy! Awesome!!

Me & my bro's, this will be Ellie someday:) The one on my right is single ladies!

My family! We had such a great weekend with everyone! Good food, good company, and Jake and I even got to stay in a hotel without the kids!...Nice:)

Summer is here!

2008-05-19T13:37:00.000-07:00

Here is our friend Pete pushing the kids! They came over for a BBQ and this is what happened, "Pete's Preschool!" Thanks Pete

Here are the kids! Chloe fits right in! They loved riding on this wagon all together!

The boys got this new swimming pool and loved washing each other's feet:)

Check out the temperature in our backyard! WOW!

2008-05-13T13:13:00.000-07:00

Happy Mother's Day!

Ellie's 5th Birthday Party

2008-05-13T13:05:00.000-07:00

This birthday party was filled with screaming girls!

Slipe-n-slide fun! The girls/2 brothers had a blast!

The brothers eating their pizza, they loved having all the girls there!

Cooper the "Fireman" This is for you Uncle Jay! Look at his arms!! Good form:)

Ellie?!!

2008-05-07T22:10:00.000-07:00

Check her out! Jumping off the diving board is her favorite part of the whole swim lesson! That's my girl!!

Her head is under the water...I had to look twice to make sure I was taking a pic of the right girl! I couldn't believe her head was under the water! This is huge for Ellie...

Her instructor taught her to swim on her own and then float on her back to get some air and then flip back over and swim some more! Awesome, 3rd lesson! 7 more to go!

HELP!!!

2008-05-05T11:06:00.000-07:00

Ok my designer friends, I know you are out there! We need help picking out a backsplash!! We have new counters/cabinets and now it is time to do the backsplash and we have no idea what to do! Please send me pics, websites, anything! Thank you

My New Babysitter!

2008-05-05T11:00:00.000-07:00

Here is James working hard with Dad putting together...our trampoline! Cooper and James will definitely do something with their hands someday...maybe Dr. Dean? It sounds good:)
Here are the kids enjoying the boxes and the trampoline, check out Coopers air!

Here is the trampoline all by itslef, it was getting dark and the kids were still outside! It is a dream come true! Happy Birthday kids!

Twins 5th Swimming Lesson

2008-05-03T11:30:00.000-07:00

Cooper is in Red/blue, James in all Blue, I was hiding behind the stroller, they kept looking to the right, I need to figure out how to get a closer pic without them seeing me!

Cooper about ready to jump off!

Cooper swimming awesome! Cute flippers huh!

Cooper & James on the "boat" saying their goodbye song, they are doing so well and they have 5 more lessons to go! This swimming school is really great and even though they cry some of the time they are learning real fast! Ellie starts monday...for any of you that know Ellie, she will swim across a whole pool without putting her head under the water!..wish her luck or should I say wish her instructor luck..ha!

Happy Birthday Ellie!!

2008-05-01T08:59:00.000-07:00

Ellie was so excited Hannah Montana CD and bike!

Then an "i-pod"! With Hannah Montana and High School Musical songs on it!

Ellie's whole class sang to her and she felt special! We brought cookies with sprinkles and gummy worms, her favorite!

Look who is beautiful and 5 years old! Happy Birthday Ellie!

2008-04-28T15:47:00.000-07:00

Here is James awaiting his first swimming lesson...

Here is James with his leg up high and not liking the teachers dunking...check out her face!

Cooper is in the red and James in blue. They cried the whole time but got put under a lot! Their technique is amazing! This was their first lesson and they not only dunked them but held them under for a long time! Then they give them lots of hugs, they say it is a trust issue..

Phew we made it! We will see what tomorrow brings. They say it is the hardest one...great:)

Another Field Trip!

2008-04-28T15:38:00.000-07:00

Here is Ellie with her really good friends Kylea and Madison! So cute!

Here is Ellie and Madison on the bus. I sat with them and they loved it!

Here are the fav 5! Girlfriends are the best!

A good day! We went to the San Juaquin River, the kids had fun minus the fresno state students that had no idea what they were talking about! One of the kids asked this girl why the turtle looked different and she said, "It looks retarted doesn't it"! Isn't that horrible! The teachers were cringing and us parents were dying! Another funny one...One of the kids asked what kind of turtle is that?! The girl said I think it is a "Gala-poe-goes" I about died and said, "You mean Galapagos!"

"Quote of the day!"

2008-04-23T13:03:00.000-07:00

"Counting Time is NOT so important as MAKING time count!"

-Panda Express

Garage sale & a good friend!

2008-04-21T22:10:00.000-07:00

We had our first ever Garage sale this last weekend! We had such a great time and the kids loved the customers! The cars just kept coming, and this one guy brought his own U-Haul! Some "Garage Salers" are way too into it! That's Jakes feet helping this guy load up our old fridge into his U-Haul:)

A good childhood friend of mine Jill was in town this last weekend too! We had such a good time reminicing. I love it when you have such a great friend you can just pick up where you left off!

Welcome Home

2008-04-17T19:06:00.000-07:00

Emily & Wyatt Dean are home! My sister in law and brother in law got to take their twins home! At 75 days in the NICU their lives now begin at home. Aren't they cute? Now my twins are crawling into each others cribs...funny how they still want to be together! Thanks for all your thoughts and prayers, Welcome home Twins!

Hot Weekend

2008-04-14T12:58:00.000-07:00

So excited for...

Yep, a homemade slip n slide!

Professionaly made by Jacob Dean, it was a hot weekend here in California, 90's, and we were not prepared for this, so Jacob, being the inventive, creative man that he is, he found some tarp sheeting in our shed, started the hose, and "Bam" as Ellie would say, a slip n slide!

New Do!

2008-04-08T12:42:00.000-07:00

This was at some of your requests so here is a better shot of the "new do" aka self portrait:) lovely isn't it?!

Summer hair

2008-04-08T07:44:00.000-07:00

Jake & I at the beach! Notice anything different?

We spotted this baby otter on the land! It was so cute!

My little bro aka nanny!

My hair ta da! I love it, so great for my hot summer ahead! I donated it to pantene, they require only 8"! That is still a lot...but it needed it!