LARSEN FAMILY

HOUSE FOR RENT

2011-01-25T11:43:00.000-08:00

We have this home for rent in Riverside. If you have questions or are interested in it, please call Spencer at 680-0180. Here's some pictures of the home.

Family Pictures 2010

2010-11-04T05:39:00.000-07:00

So, here we are, with our newest family picture. I think it's pretty cute. . . something different than we have ever done before. Thanks Sherice, you did a great job!

TOO BUSY TO BLOG???!!!!???

2010-10-10T14:13:00.000-07:00

Yes, that's right. I guess there comes a point when you have to choose between 2 good things. I love to blog, especially for my family to see how the kids are growing. I think it is a great way to keep up on what our family is doing. However, I just don't always have time to upload pictures and write a paragraph about everything I have done that week. We are lucky in most cases just to get our tasks done for the week let alone write about it. Anyway, so off my soap box, and on to my post.

I have taken on 23 piano students this fall. I thought this would be difficult, but I have to admit, rather than the 12 hours a week it takes to teach, it hasn't been difficult at all!!! I LOVE IT!!! I love my students, I love watching them get better as they practice and I love teaching them!

I have also taken on directing 2 children's choirs with my friend. I am so grateful that she thought of me to help her. It has been a great blessing for me to be able to develop some of my talents more fully, and I love the fun music it has brought into our home. My girls will not quit singing and playing the piano, but I couldn't ask for anything better.

In our spare time, 3 of the girls take gymnastics lessons on Monday after school. I am the 1st counselor in the primary, Spencer is the Y/M president. He just is just finishing potato harvest. . .yay!!! Not to mention, homework, baths, dinner, laundry, housework, and just keeping up.

My latest project during harvest break was to paint the girls' bedrooms. Anna informed me that other girls got to have "cute paint" and let me know that brown was SOOOOO BORING. So, Here is what we came up with...

Abby and Lyndsie's Room

Anna and Vivian's Room

The girls had a fun time painting poka dots (BOLD, I KNOW) And I have to admit that I like the way they turned out. . . thanks for the little push Anna!!!

Hair, Hair Hair

2010-05-08T15:20:00.001-07:00

Anna has been asking for a shorter haircut for a while. As we were walking out the door for the appointment, Lyndsie was quite sure she needed hers done as well. Thanks a ton to Merri who spent 2 hours cutting hair for me and my girls this afternoon. The girls love their new haircuts!!

They are actually cuter in person!

Anna's Front View

Anna's Back View

Lyndsie's Front View

Lyndsie's Back View

10 THINGS I LOVE

2010-05-06T19:11:00.000-07:00

1. Spencer
2. Date Night
3. Kisses on the Chicken (that's what Viver's calls her cheek)
4. My 4 girls
5. Fresh homemade bread with butter
6. Music
7. Watching Gymnastics Class
8. Sewing new clothes for my cute little girls
9. Primary
10. Garlic Shrimp Scampi at Red Lobster

HAPPY CORRALS!!!

2010-05-01T09:13:00.000-07:00

Last night the Snake River Kids Choir held their spring show. I have been helping this year, and it really has been alot of fun. I didn't get any pics of them on stage since I was up front helping. Thanks to Kara for asking me to help and to the other directors for accepting me so willingly!!!

This is Abby who had the part of Tricia (who was a tourist)

This is Lyndsie who had the part of Dawn (who was a cowgirl)

This is Anna who had the part of Beth (who was a city slicker)

Here is the whole cute little cast.

WAY TO GO SNAKE RIVER KIDS CHOIR!!!!

Happy Birthday Vivian!!!

2010-04-25T20:01:00.000-07:00

My Baby is 2!!! We officially celebrated her birthday tonight. She was 2 on Friday, but we planned her birthday party around potato planting season.

She was so funny tonight. Every time she would open a present she would say "TA-DA". She was so excited for "present time." We are so glad we have both families so close and our friends Jim and Jan to spend birthdays with!

Marilyn was such a sweetie to make Vivers a birthday cake. Vivian immediatly recognized it as "THE MOUSE!" Thanks for taking the time Mares. . . we love you!!!

POKA DOTTY OH SO SPOTTY

2010-04-25T15:34:00.000-07:00

On Monday, Lyndsie woke up with a rash. It wasn't too bad, but I kept her home from school anyway. I figured I would run her to school as soon as the rash went away. As the day went on, the rash didn't go away. At about 4:30 p.m. she came to tell me that her foot was hurting. I didn't look at it to hard because I was busy. About 15 minutes later she came to tell me again. When I looked at her foot, this is what I saw: Yes, her foot was obviously swelling. After a couple of phone calls, I decided to take her to the clinic. By that time, she couldn't even put weight on her foot.

The doctor was not quite sure how to diagnose the problem, so he ordered a few blood tests and let me know that they would be testing for Rheumatic Fever and also for a couple of other options. He also thought it could be an allergic reaction to penicillin, which she was on for strep throat. He sent me home with my motrin and Benedryl for the night.

The next morning we awoke to find that her swelling in her foot had gone down, but where the swelling was, she was bruised. Her rash had about tripled at this point.

We decided to take her back to the doctor. There were 4 doctors who saw her and finally came to the conclusion that we wouldn't know for sure untill the blood results came back, but they thought it was an allergic reaction to the amoxicillin she had been on. They diagnosed her with HSP which causes the blood vessels to leak blood (that is what caused the bruising.) Again, sent her home with more motrin and benedryl. By 6:00 that night, both her feet were swollen and she couldn't put any weight on them. Spencer let me know that he would be coming home to give her a blessing.

The next morning, she was able to walk again, her feet were still quite swollen, but the bruising is what was breaking my heart. Here are some of the pics of her legs.

She healed quickly from there. She was able to go back to school on Thursday. We still have to take her in 1 time a week for a month to check if she has kidney damage and to look at her blood pressure. Her first appointment back will be tomorrow. We hope all looks good. No more penicillin for her ever ever ever again!!!!

BLOG THE DOG

2010-04-18T20:03:00.002-07:00

Meet FRANKIE. . the stray dog. No, seriously. We took a nice walk/bike ride to Grandma and Grandpa Larsen's house tonight. We were so kindly greeted by this sweet little doggie. I asked Nicky if they got a new dog, and she said he was a stray. . people often drop dogs off out here in the country if they don't want them anymore. Needless to say, Abby named him Frankie and before we knew it, we had a collar on him and he is now in our fenced front yard. I never thought I would be getting a dog today. . or ever, but he is already trained and so good with the kids so....why not? We hope he doesn't get nervous over night and leave, or my Abby will cry some serious crocodile tears in the morning. He seems like a good dog. He can play fetch, and sit. I suppose he will be a great addition to our little family if he will stay!!!

HICKEY HEAD

2010-04-18T19:56:00.000-07:00

So, the other morning was one of those typical mornings when you are running like a crazy woman trying to get all of the children out of the door by 8:00. I tell the kids to go to the bathroom to brush their teeth, (which is the new favorite thing due to the fantastic suction cup toothbrushes I just bought). They girls all come out of the bathroom with their toothbrushes stuck to the front of their foreheads. I laugh a little and tell them to hurry up. We get in the car. I turned around to talk to Abby when I realized that she had a GIANT toothbrush hickey on her forehead. . . I never thought that my 5 year old would have a hickey. . . hillarious!!! This pic was take like 2 days later, so the pic doesn't do the hickey justice!!!

Early Easter Dresses

2010-03-28T20:22:00.000-07:00

The girls got to wear their easter dresses to church today. I worked all day on Saturday to finish Anna and Vivian's dresses. They turned out really cute, and I have to say, the girls are adorable. What a great day! I love dressing up my little girls!!!

HAPPY EARLY EASTER!!!!

ACHIEVEMENT DAYS

2010-02-28T20:22:00.000-08:00

Tonight Anna's little achievement day group had a recognition night. They got to show off some of the things they have been working on, and it was alot of fun. It really made the girls feel special. They have some great leaders, and we are so proud of Anna for her hard work and dedication. We love you Anna!!!

I'm Proud to Be an American

2010-02-28T20:15:00.000-08:00

God Bless the USA

On Friday, Lyndsie got to participate in the Moreland Elementary 1st grade Patriotic Program. She had a little speaking part (which she has had memorized for like 3 weeks), and she sang her little heart out. You would have thought that entire program's success depended entirely on how intently she sang. She was so cute. Those little kids reminded us how we should have pride in our country. It was so refreshing to see them learning about our freedom at such a young age. Way to go Lyndsie!!!

FOR KAYLEEN

2010-02-25T07:31:00.001-08:00

Okay, here is the dress, I hope these pics help you.

Here is the full dress. I only sewed one side seam, the other side is just folded over. I would sew the top and the bottom together first . Then add the "white bias tape" then fold the piece in half with the good sides together and do the side seam. Turn the dress right side out and then fold the "pillowcase" in half and cut a "J" shape for the arms. then you can hem the bottom and the top. You need to gather the top seam before you put the bias tape around the arm holes. Good luck. Call me if you need help.

Here is the close up of the bias tape I made for the arm holes and the ties.

Here is another full shot of the dress

Here is the dress I made for Brittany's baby. It is about a 3-6 month size.

Modeling My Latest Projects

2010-02-22T10:28:00.000-08:00

There were a couple requests to post some pictures of the girls wearing the dresses I made. I really don't feel like the pictures do them justice, but here they are. They turned out pretty cute.

MOM. . . A MESS!!!

2010-02-08T19:43:00.001-08:00

"Mom, A mess! I clean it." These are Vivian's favorite words. Usually, the mess is spilled milk at a meal, or water spilled on the floor. . . but this chip mess happened 2 times in like 15 minutes tonight while I was cooking dinner! Lesson to mom to move the chips to a higher shelf. What a stinker.

My Latest Project

2010-02-05T19:53:00.000-08:00

So, after spending hours dress hunting with Anna, I decided my dress hunting days are over. Dresses are over priced and it's hard to find what you really want. I decided it is time to learn to sew them. So, I began my search for a beginner pattern to try sewing for the younger girls. I found a cute pattern and went on my way. . .. . . after 1 hour TA DA!!!!! Abby has a cute dress, it is the right colors, the right length, and it's comfortable (Abby's all about comfort)! Spencer was about as excited as husbands get about dresses, so I though I would post it show it off to someone who would be excited with me. I thought it turned out pretty darn cute!!!

Disney World Continued. . .

2010-02-05T19:25:00.000-08:00

We saw this giraffe on the African Safari. Abby loves animals and we did this ride twice just for her. It was really cool.

Here's the "UP" characters. We waited in line for a while for this picture. . . Lyndsie was so excited!

At magic kindom, there was a man who did water art on the ground. It was really neat to watch him. We would find this art randomly through out the park. (sorry for the sideways pic.)

Lyndsie got to be an "Apprentice Pirate" for being in Captain Jack Sparrow's show. What a cute little pirate she is ARRRG

Abby and Vivers sporting their minnie mouse ears

Lyndsie and Abby with Annie and Leo from Little Einsteins (Anna would have no part of this picture) so funny!

This is Ta Mater. . without the "Ta". The girls loved this!

We are at the Block Party Bash in Hollywood Studios. The girls got to dance with Jesse in the street. They had some sweet moves!

Here are the green army men that live outside the Toy Story ride. Seriously cool costumes!

This is Vivian with Minnie Mouse. She loved meeting the characters, which surprised me just a little bit! She had absolutely no fear. . . she just loves the mouse!

Here are all the girls with Minnie

Group picture at the bus stop. Can you tell the whole week was a party?

Thanks for a great Vacation!

VACATION OVER

2010-01-24T20:03:00.001-08:00

We're Back!!!! We had such a great time in Florida.. . . The weather was great and the kids were such little troopers. I think they each walked at least 20 miles while we were there! This is going to be the biggest post ever. . . but here we go!

We flew out of SLC Airport at 6:55 A.m. (this picture was taken at about 5:00 a.m. when the kids were still chipper) Here we are just waiting at the airport to check our bags. Check out all the luggage!

This is the airplane we boarded for our flight to Denver. The kids thought the walk way that connects to the airplane was pretty cool.

This is at the airport in Orlando. I knew the moment that everyone got excited to take a picture with a plastic goofy that this trip was going to be magical!

Here we are driving on Disney's Magical Express ( the bus that takes you to your resort). We were so excited to see the official Disney World Sign. By this time the kids were about to lose it because they were so excited!

Tuesday: Flight to Denver/Orlando

Quick trip to Magic Kingdom just in time to ride the Buzz Lightyear Ride and watch "Wishes" which is the fireworks show. Sorry we missed you Grandpa, Grandma and Landon (they missed their connecting flight, so they were too late arriving to watch the fireworks with us)

Wednesday: Animal Kingdom where the favorite rides were definately Mt. Everest and the Animal Safari. We met quite a few characters this day, and we totally loved the Lion King show!

Thursday: Hollywood Studios where we scared the pants off of Abby on Tower of Terror. The big kids whooped it up on Rockin' Roller Coaster, and everyone loved "Lights, Motors, Action" the car stunt show and Beauty and the Beast. We were able to finish off the night with the amazing show Fantasmic. It was so great.

Friday: Magic Kingdom where Abby found all of her brave that was left in her for the Thunder Mountain Railroad. She loved it, which was a breath of fresh air after the Tower of Terror! Lyndsie got to be in a show with Captain Jack Sparrow where she became an apprentice pirate and took the pirate oath. What a cutie! Everone loved Magic kingdom because it is so kid friendly. Sorry Landon, not so many thriller rides here! We ended the night with another great showing of "Wishes". The kids love the fireworks.

Saturday: Off to Epcot where the favorite rides were soarin', test track and mission space. Abby got to talk to Crush (the turtle from Nemo) She asked him if he has teeth. We all learned that turtles just have strong jaws. She was so happy that he called on her (the little dudet with pink spots on her shell) What a great time. Then off to world showcase where the kids loved the chinese acrobats (they had some sweet tricks) and then we skipped the fireworks show and went back to the hotel a bit early due to some seriously pooped out kids!

Sunday: Back to Magic Kingdom, hoping to see all that we missed the first day. Favorite rides were Space Mountain, and the Laugh Floor with Mike from Monsters Inc. (Except for Vivian who was sure that Roz was going to get her). Part way through the day we took Abby, Lyndsie and Vivian back to the hotel for some napping and swimming while Anna played with the big kids at Magic Kingdom. We made it back to the park in time for SpectroMagic ( a light parade) and another great showing of "Wishes". We sent Grandpa and Grandma back to the hotel and the rest of us rode a few more rides. It was a fun late night. We had two days in this park and we never made it to Toon Town. . .maybe next time!

Monday: Back to HollyWood studios where the big kids enjoyed Tower of Terror and Rockin' Roller Coaster a few last times before we had to go. We also got to ride the Toy Story Ride (one of Abby's favorites) and see the Indiana Jones Show. We also loved the street shows there with a really funny actor (Flabio Fallini) What a hoot. We left early this night for a reservation at a restaurant at the Polynesian Resort called Ohana's. Landon and Spencer especially loved the all you can eat shrimp, steak, pork, and chicken that they serve to you on a sword. Anna and Abby learned how to Hula and they got to do the limbo. Lyndsie wasn't feeling well and she slept on my lap most of the evening. We ended the evening with our last rendition of "wishes" that we could see from the restaurant. It was so fun.

Tuesday: Back to Animal Kindom for some extra magic hours in the morning. We had time to ride the Animal Safari and Expedition Everest. Abby got to see the Tigers (thanks Grandpa and Grandma). We had to head back and catch the bus to the airport. Yup, that's it. Our vacation is done!

I will post more pictures later, but there is our vacation in a nutshell!

Thanks to Grandma, Grandpa, Sarah, Katie, and Landon for all the help with the kids. We couldn't have done it with out you! We love you, thanks for a great vacation!

Little Red Hen

2010-01-08T12:55:00.001-08:00

Today I decided to be the Little Red Hen. I let Grandpa Larsen grow the wheat, and I let him thrash the wheat. . . I 'll take it from there.

Who will help me carry the heavy old wheat bucket to my kitchen? Spencer said. . "I will"

Who will help me grind the wheat with the awesome new wheat grinder I got from Grandpa and Grandma Larsen for Christmas? Abby said, "turn that thing off. . it's noisy!"

Who help me measure the flour I made? Abby said, "I will, then can I watch my movie?"

Who will help me eat the yummy bread that I made? "me, me, me, me, me, me"

And the Larsen family lived happily ever after.

Seriously, this was a great experiment! I have never made wheat bread in my entire life, but I tried this recipe that is 1/2 wheat and 1/2 white, and it is wonderful. I'm sure I can improve my bread making skills and it will be better, but for a first try, I was impressed. Maybe some new whole wheat recipes will follow!

2010-01-02T19:14:00.000-08:00

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!

Yes, we started off the new year by building a cute little snoman with Grandma Larsen. We gave her a snowman kit for her birthday, and it was definately time to try it out! The snow was a little bit dry, so with a couple of spray bottles to help us make some snowballs, we accomplished the finished product! THANKS GRANDMA!

FROSTY THE SNOMAN

2009-12-31T12:09:00.000-08:00

Mickey Mouse here we come!!!
We have been planning this trip for a year now, and we are starting the serious countdown! My kids packed their bags on Christmas day (a little premature, I know). We are getting ready for an awesome time in Walt Disney World. The kids get to take their first plane ride (Abby is a little bit nervous). We will be staying on Disney at the Carribean Beach Resort, and enjoying micky mouse waffles every morning for a week. We can't wait to try out a few of the rides in particular, including:
The Tower of Terror

The Rockin' Roller Coaster (everyone but Abby and Vivers)

Expedition Everest

The African Safari

Talking with Crush

The Merry Go Round (Abby)

AND SO MUCH MORE!!!

We are very lucky to be able to go, and we are super excited to spend the week with Mike, Nicky, Landon, Sarah and Katie!

Wish me luck on actually thinking of everything that needs packed for all our little people! We aren't ready to go yet, but, soon soon soon!

Back to Blogging

2009-12-30T19:56:00.002-08:00

Yes, A BIG THANKS to my sweet husband, and a brand new computer with a wirelss internet connection for Christmas, I am back in business. I can't believe how much difference this new computer and the internet connection is making already! Thanks babe!

We had a great Christmas this year. We gift wrapped the doors (Thanks to Kayleen for the great idea) and the kids had a great time busting through the wrapping paper to find their Christmas treasures. (except for Lyndsie-- as you can see-- she just wished we would have let her sleep. We found out later that she was running a fever)

Here is Vivy with her "mouse". Santa knew we were preparing for a Walt Disney World Trip!

This is me and the girls in our "Disney" jammies. What a great day!

We enjoyed a wonderful Christmas Eve at the Larsen's with all of the family. It was nice this year to be able to stay at our house for most of Christmas day. . thanks grandma and grandpa on both sides for cooperating! We truly felt the true Spirit of Christmas this year with our wonderful family.

Family Pictures

2009-08-29T15:49:00.001-07:00

We finally got our pictures taken (I've been wanting to for a while). Thanks to Kristan for the great pictures and her time spent. Also, thanks to Kayleen for her awesome photoshop talent. They turned out great! It was really hard to get the kids to look at the camera and quit picking the neighbors grain! Look at us, all looking at the camera at once. . it was truely a miracle!!

CATCHING UP

2009-01-04T19:20:00.000-08:00

Wow, time really is flying so fast. I have to apologize to all of you who like to read my blog. The holidays started coming, and my life got crazier and crazier. I just had to let a few things slide for a while, and sadly enough, blogging wasn't the most important on my list for a while! I just basically thought I could give a quick overview of what we have been doing around here!

We took an awesome trip to Yellowstone National Park in October. . Cold, but way worth it!

Next, It was Halloween time, what cute little kids. I love to see them in costumes!

We had a great Thanksgiving at the Larsen's home with plenty of food, family, and fun, and then it was off for the great Christmas tree hunt!

Anna had a Christmas play and she was an elf. How cute to see those little 2nd graders perform!

Now for Jessica and Adam's wedding. What a cute couple. . .congratulations guys!

And yes, my Vivy is not such a baby anymore. . . 8 months old now! Where did the time go?

And I was very proud of Abby's hairdo at the wedding. . this pic is mostly for Kayleen.

We had a great Christmas, and are truly greatful for the Savior in our lives. We are greatful for every Christmas season to remember Him and celebrate His birth.

So, that's the Larsen family in a serious nutshell. I hope to do better blogging this year, but I hope to do better in a lot of things. I hope you enjoyed the update.

GOING PRIVATE

2008-09-16T20:51:00.000-07:00

I am going to make my blog private as of October 1st. If you would like to be invited to read my blog, please leave a comment with your e-mail address, or e-mail me and let me know. I just think this will be the best thing for my family's privacy! Thanks!

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY!!!

2008-08-24T16:49:00.000-07:00

Happy anniversary Spencer! We have been married 8 years as of today. I couldn't ask for a better husband, father and best friend. I LOVE YOU SWEETIE!!!

A DAY AT THE ZOO

2008-08-24T16:38:00.001-07:00

Friday night Spencer had some time off, (which is rare at this time of year), so we took the kids to Tautphaus Park Zoo. It was so fun to watch the kids looking at all the animals. They were thrilled to see the Tiger and the baby lions. I think the best part was just hanging out with our own little family for the afternoon. Here's a few pics.

DIRTY LAUNDRY

2008-08-24T16:31:00.000-07:00

So, the other day I was helping Anna practice her piano, when I heard a faint crying over top of the pounding away on the keys. I told Anna to be quiet, and I could still hear something. I yelled out "Lyndsie. . . Where are you?" She answered sobbing "I'm stuck help!!!!! I followed the crying, only to find Lyndsie in Abby's laundry basket looking quite helpless. I couldn't help but laugh, and I left her there crying until I could grab my camera. It was hillarious!!!

2008-08-20T10:46:00.000-07:00

THE FIRST DAY OF SCHOOL

Anna is off to second grade!!! She was a little bit scared and excited all at the same time. She loaded the bus at 7:15 this morning and she walked out the door with nothing but smiles on her face! Have a great day! WE LOVE YOU ANNA!!!

KINDERGARTEN. . .

HERE WE COME!!!

Lyndsie was super worried about kindergarten yesterday, because at back-to-school night, her teacher couldn't be there because her father died and the funeral was yesterday. After a blessing from dad this morning and a little pep talk, she was ready to go! 11:30 felt like forever away, since Anna got on the bus at 7:15. For any of you who have had a first time kindergartener, you will understand how long this morning was! Here is what our morning was like.

7:25 A.M Backpack on. . . .

Taking some pictures to pass the time. . .

Watching T.V. . . (notice the backpack is still on)

waiting for the bus. . . I guess I'll read Dick and Jane

STILL WAITING. . .

STILL WAITING. . . . .

Mom, is the bus EVER going to come ?. . . .

Oh! The Bus is in View!

Have a GREAT day Lyndsie!! WE LOVE YOU!!!

Vivy

2008-08-19T09:08:00.000-07:00

Vivian is almost 4 months old now. Time flies when you aren't pregnant anymore! I have had a few requests to put some pics on the blog of Vivy (sorry Kayleen). I have been so slow! Here she is (and isn't she cute!)

HAPPY BIRTHDAY LYNDSIE!!!

2008-08-19T08:45:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday Lyndsie!!!! Your the big 5!

This is "Baby Alive". I never thought we would have a doll that actually wets it's diaper, but it has been so much fun for the girls. The only downside is buying the diapers!

We spent the day at the school playing at the playground, followed by a little picnic, and then a splashing time at Grandma Silly's pool. You should check out Anna and Lyndsie's

"SWEET MOVES" as Lyndsie would call them!

Anna

Lyndsie

REMEMBER WHEN?

2008-07-21T09:56:00.000-07:00

Here are the directions:
1. As a comment on my blog, leave one memory that you and I had together. It doesn't matter if you knew me a little or a lot, anything you remember!
2. Next, re-post these instructions on your blog and see how many people leave a memory about you.
HAVE FUN!

CHOTLIK!!!!

2008-07-20T18:37:00.000-07:00

I will forever be sad when my Abby can pronounce her words correctly. While we were camping, we were making s'mores, and Abby said.... I don't want grahm crackers or marshmallows. All I want is Chotlik!(chocolate for those of you who don't understand). Everyday, we either have Chotlik Milk or Hot Chotlik! Here is a picture of Abby with her Chotlik.

PLAYING CATCH-UP

2008-07-20T16:38:00.000-07:00

This summer has been totally CRAZY!!!! We have been running from here to there with only enough time to clean up and go again! Just a quick update of what we have been doing though. We started off with Swim camp in June. What a great time. I take the girls to Green Canyon Hot Springs for swim lessons. They have lessons 2 times a day for 5 days, so we just camp there. I have to say thanks to Nicky (Spencer's mom) for coming almost the full time and hanging out with the baby while I chased the other kids. Also a great big thanks to Marilyn for staying a couple of days with me and helping chase kids. Thanks to Ryan for letting her be away from him to come help me! I know that can be a big sacrifice! Here's some pics of swim camp. . .

We left swim camp Friday afternoon, only to return home, unpack, repack, and head to Island Park on Sunday after church with the Simmons fam. What a great time we had camping with them. We spent some time boating and visiting. Some of us went on a raft down big springs. Anyways, thanks to everyone for a great time! Here are a few pics!

We had such a great time together! We got home just in time to clean up again, and off to another party! Anna turned 7 years old on the Fourth of July. We were kind of sick at our house (stomach flu), so we layed around most of the day, and that evening, we joined the college kids in Idaho Falls for the fire works. Happy Birthday Anna! We love you!!!!

Family Picture Time!!!

2008-06-03T14:54:00.000-07:00

We had Larsen family pictures on Saturday night. It was pretty crazy. . .but thanks to Lyn, everything turned out pretty good! We were excited to have a picture because this is the first time in 3 years that the whole family was together at the same time!

This is our little (getting bigger) family!

Here is the whole crew!

Look at all the little cousin kids. . . this shot was super hard! Way to go Lyn!

BLESSING DAY

2008-06-03T14:23:00.001-07:00

We blessed Vivian on Sunday. It was a great day. We had so much support from our family, and I was overwhelmed with the blessings in our life. We are so happy to have our four beautiful little girls!

Our Sweet "Vivy"

2008-05-08T20:57:00.000-07:00

I can't believe she is 2 weeks old already! She has been such a blessing in our home. The girls love having a little sister, and I couldn't ask for a happier baby. Wow, the time really flies once they are born! So, who does she look like?

Water Fun

2008-05-08T20:14:00.000-07:00

The other day it actually got warm enough that the kids asked to play in the water. It was not really warm enough to put swimming suits on, so I told them to play as long as they wanted in their clothes. It was only about 15 minutes before they were asking for hot chocolate, but boy did they have fun!

Spencer and His Girls

2008-05-08T20:05:00.000-07:00

The other day we were discussing the fact that we have so many girls in the house now. All Spencer could say was "Well, I always have liked girls!"

2008-04-25T15:55:00.000-07:00

SURPRISE SURPRISE. . . . . IT'S A GIRL!!!!

VIVIAN MAE LARSEN

6 lbs. 14 oz.

20"

This is her cutest picture. . isn't she sweet!

This is at the hospital. . . .she doesn't even look like this now!
The girls can't get enough. I have to fight for the chance to hold her, feed her, burp her, or even change a diaper! They love having a little baby in the house.
By the way, I feel great, I love having this sweetie at home. Everything went well at the hospital and we are glad that the doctor made it on time! (he almost missed the delivery). Everyone was hoping for a boy for us, but we wouldn't trade our little Vivian for anything.

COUNTING DOWN THE DAYS!!!

2008-04-15T20:00:00.000-07:00

I haven't updated anything for so long! I just wanted to let everyone know that we are all doing well. We are counting down the days for baby #4! 2 weeks and 1 day left. . . hopefully we won't have to wait that long! I went to the doctor today, he said that he has to be out of town a week from Saturday, so if we haven't had the baby by a week from Thursday, I will be induced. I am really beginning to wonder now if we are awaiting a baby boy or a baby girl, but only time will tell! Wish us luck, and we will let you know as soon as we find out ourselves!

I'V BEEN TAGGED!!!

2008-03-25T19:55:00.000-07:00

I have been tagged by Lyn. I have to say that this is probably the strangest "tag" I have ever seen on a blog, but hey, why not try it anyway?

This is what you do

1. Pick up the nearest book (at least 123 pages).
2. Turn to page 123.
3. Find the 5th sentence
4. Post the 5th sentence on your blog.
5. Tag 5 people.

Okay, the nearest book to me (keep in mind that I am NOT a reader) was my daughter Anna's basal reader from 1st grade. I turned to page 123, this is what I read:

"The mouse was tired, but he knew he couldn't stop."

Sounds like pretty intense reading to me! Okay, so I will tag Jenny, Kayleen, Elicia, Rebecca, and Katie. Good luck. . . maybe your nearest book will be more interesting than mine!

HAPPY EASTER!!!

2008-03-24T15:17:00.000-07:00

I love easter because I get to buy my girls new dresses! I was excited to find matching dresses at Ross, and the girls loved them. I am so lucky to have 3 pretty little girls!

A Hunting We Will Go

2008-03-24T14:51:00.000-07:00

Nathan and Erin and the kids came on Saturday. The kids had a great time hunting eggs and prizes at Grandma and Grandpa's house. Thanks for everything guys!

FINALLY, I'M FLEE!!!

2008-03-24T14:37:00.000-07:00

Abby turned 3 on Friday. . . wow how time flies! I can't believe she is getting so big! When we ask her how old she is, she says "Flee". I will be sad when she can say all her words the right way!

She is a little bit small for this giant trike we got her. . . I suppose she will grow into it!

If none of you have had the experience of playing "Elefun", I recommend it. I hear it is a real battery eater, but my kids will play forever. . . . especially if Uncle Ryan is involved!!!

IS IT TIME FOR CAMPING YET???

2008-03-15T16:48:00.000-07:00

So, this is my newest toy. . . I feel quite spoiled. Mom and Dad gave us a camper a few years ago, and we have had a lot of fun in it, but it was beginning to feel like time for an upgrade, which is extremely exciting for me! The kids and I spend a week at the end of June at swim camp, and I am very thrilled about A/C, large holding tanks, and beds for all the kids! Thanks Spencer!!! I'm not sure he realizes how much more comfortable that will make us for 1 week without him!

CURLY SUE

2008-03-15T16:30:00.000-07:00

Anna and I had an adventure on Friday. She didn't have school, and she informed me that she would like a perm in her hair. So, we trooped on over to Aunt Merri's house to buy a perm and borrow the rods. (THANKYOU!) I was a little nervouse, being that I have never given anyone a perm before, but I thought it turned out quite cute. She loves it and hasn't quit flipping her hair all over since it was finished! I really should have gone to beauty school, I quite enjoy cutting hair and stuff.
(I guess I should have thought about that 4 babies ago!)

Here is Anna's beautiful bag over her head. . . .

Here is the front shot. . . .
Here is the back shot. . .

HAPPY (or unhappy) BIRTHDAY SPENCER!!!

2008-03-11T09:04:00.000-07:00

So, yesterday was Spencer's birthday. The kids and I had the house clean, dinner almost ready, and daddy's birthday surprise all ready. It was about 5:00. I was in the kitchen working on a few last minute things when I hear this awful scream come from the living room. Of course, I run in to see what is wrong. Lyndsie was laying on the floor holding her arm. I waited a while, and she was still crying and wouldn't move it. I decided to take her to the clinic. They took 6 X-rays, and determined she didn't have any broken bones. When the doctor started to look closer and make her move it, her elbow popped, and the doctor said. . . "I think I might have just fixed this on accident!" Sure enough, about 2 minutes later, she began moving her arm, and was happy again. The doctor determined she had dislocated her elbow. We then walked out of the doctor's office with 3 stickers, 1 sucker, and 1 very happy, expensive child! We were grateful that she didn't break it. We returned home to eat the cold supper I had prepared 1 1/2 hours earlier, and try to have a birthday party. Sorry Spencer for the rotten Birthday! We still love you!

HULA HOTTIES

2008-03-04T20:52:00.000-08:00

Grandma and Grandpa Larsen just returned from a trip to Hawaii. We went for family home evening last night, and they gave the girls these funny hula outfits. The girls thought it was pretty funny that they all got new "bras". Anyways, I never knew how many moves they had until they put on those grass skirts!

Here's Anna's best moves. . . .

Here's Lyndsie's Hula Hips . . .

Here's Abby's Pose. . . (the hula hands were hard for her to figure out!)

Thank You Grandma and Grandpa for the great hula costumes! We have had a ton of fun in them already!

Happy Birthday Dr. Suess!

2008-03-04T20:45:00.000-08:00

Monday was Dr. Suess' birthday, so, the kids at school were supposed to wear crazy socks and crazy hats. We found some crazy socks, but the hat was another issue. Anna absolutely wouldn't settle for no hat at all, so we decided to give her "Cindy Lou Hoo" hair. I thought it turned out great for the occasion!

THANKS!

2008-03-04T20:39:00.000-08:00

Thanks to everyone who guessed on the gender of the baby! Now we can all wait about 8 weeks until our little surprise arrives to find out who guessed right. I have to say, the odds of getting a boy aren't very good, but we always say "who knows. . . we have a 50% chance!" I promise I will keep everyone posted as soon as we know!

POPCORN POPPING

2008-02-25T08:13:00.000-08:00

Abby's favorite song in nursery is "popcorn popping on the apricot tree". She sang it for me before church yesterday, and I just had to record it. She was so stinking cute. I hope you enjoy it as much as I do!

New Bunkbeds

2008-02-24T15:47:00.001-08:00

We recieved some hand-me-down bunkbeds last year, and the kids have been begging to get them painted and set up for them. We finally got the project finished. They love them! They spend alot of their day just climbing on, and climbing off the top bunk. I have a hard time keeping the bedding on! Thanks to the West's for the exciting new toy!!! We just hope that we don't have any hospital bills!