This one is Morgan during their stretching. (if you work out at all, you'll recognize the airplane move, which strengthens your core) For 5 and 6 year olds, its just fun to do.
Thursday, December 17, 2009
Ballet with Morgan
Morgan's dance studio allows visitors during the first week of each month. The whole family was able to make it in December, so here are the shots from her dancing to a Cinderella story the instructor told as they danced. 
This one is Morgan during their stretching. (if you work out at all, you'll recognize the airplane move, which strengthens your core) For 5 and 6 year olds, its just fun to do.
This one is Morgan during their stretching. (if you work out at all, you'll recognize the airplane move, which strengthens your core) For 5 and 6 year olds, its just fun to do.
Cake in the face.
It was Chandler's birthday on the 8th, so I made cupcakes to take into his class. Being that I usually have to make 30 or so cupcakes to cover to 5 different teachers he has throughout the day, his classmates, and the office people, I can't make just one package. Chandler wanted chocolate, but I only had one box, so here are the peppermint chocolate cupcakes I made. The frosting was minty, (in a cream cheese butter mint kind of way) and to die for! I just crushed candy canes and sprinkled them on top.
For the second box, I grabbed a yellow cake mix, and added some eggnog and rum with some nutmeg for a fun flavor. I did the same with the frosting, then put it on a round plate and decorated it like a snowman head. What do ya think?
There is a third grade teacher who, if you go to her on your birthday, she'll shove your cupcake in your face. I don't get it, but the kids love it, and its tradition. So, here's Chandler's second birthday shot at Knik Elem. with icing all over his face.
For the second box, I grabbed a yellow cake mix, and added some eggnog and rum with some nutmeg for a fun flavor. I did the same with the frosting, then put it on a round plate and decorated it like a snowman head. What do ya think?
There is a third grade teacher who, if you go to her on your birthday, she'll shove your cupcake in your face. I don't get it, but the kids love it, and its tradition. So, here's Chandler's second birthday shot at Knik Elem. with icing all over his face. 
Thursday, December 10, 2009
Happy 10th Birthday Chandler! (yikes, he's in the double digits!)
Ok, so I am a horrible mother! No big news there. But Chandler's birthday was two days ago, and while we did celebrate, I neglected to blog about the wonderful 10 year old that is my son. So, in his honor, here are some facts about Chandler Scott Stastny that you might not know. 
Chandler loves zoos. (what kid doesn't, I know) But Chandler REALLY does. First thing upon entering any zoo, he requests a map from zoo workers, and then charts out our route. He knows facts about every single animal in the place. Doesn't matter if we're at the Portland zoo, Hoggle zoo, or our very own Alaska zoo, he knows the proper name for each animal, and can tell you what they eat, who their enemies are, and what color their poop is. (really, he can, but he'll use the word "dung" instead)
Chandler is very strong! Since he was a little guy, Chandler has continued to amaze me with both his physical, spiritual, and emotional strength. He is a very grounded young man, who is sure of himself, and what he wants out of life.
Chandler takes after his dad in almost every aspect of his life. He LOVES star wars, and I am constantly amazed at his comprehension of the series. We once played Star Wars Trivial Pursuit, and he gave all of us a run for our money. (even Matt!)
Chandler Loves the outdoors, in all the seasons. He recently became a big fan of hiking, and is usually the first one up any mountain we decide to hike. This summer we went hiking with some friends, and when the mother (was was pregnant) got tired and we decided to head back down before reaching the top, Chandler was very disappointed. After parting with our friends at the parking lot, Chandler talked us into heading over to another trail, and we hiked up that mountain that same day.
Chandler loves his relatives. Especially the Grandma's. And while he is almost as tall as his Grandma Stastny, and catching up to his Grandma Christensen, he is never too big, or too cool to give out hugs.
Chandler has always loved books. But learning to read was a struggle for Chandler. K-2nd grade were stressful and emotional years for our family as we tried to encourage him not to give up. We knew that once he figured out the power reading gives an individual, there would be no stopping Chandler. About a month ago, Chandler came home with a thick book from the library. White Fang. I raised an eye brow, and wondered if he'd really finish it, or just skim through. I was pleasantly surprised as I watching him skip TV, playing, and even treats in order to finish his book in a 36 hour period. Now, instead of begging him to pick up a book, I have the opposite problem, and have to beg him to come in to eat dinner, or turn off the lights for bed.
Chandler is an amazingly good big brother. He was only 17 months old when Gabe joined our family, and only 4 when Morgan came along. I can always count on his help with his brother and sister, and he has also become a great help to some of the mothers in our ward with little ones. He entertains them, coos at them, and plays with them to keep them happy.
I just put this in, because Chandler hates taking pictures, and when he finally looks at the camera, I usually get a cheesy grin like the one above.
Chandler loves zoos. (what kid doesn't, I know) But Chandler REALLY does. First thing upon entering any zoo, he requests a map from zoo workers, and then charts out our route. He knows facts about every single animal in the place. Doesn't matter if we're at the Portland zoo, Hoggle zoo, or our very own Alaska zoo, he knows the proper name for each animal, and can tell you what they eat, who their enemies are, and what color their poop is. (really, he can, but he'll use the word "dung" instead)
Chandler is very strong! Since he was a little guy, Chandler has continued to amaze me with both his physical, spiritual, and emotional strength. He is a very grounded young man, who is sure of himself, and what he wants out of life. 
Chandler takes after his dad in almost every aspect of his life. He LOVES star wars, and I am constantly amazed at his comprehension of the series. We once played Star Wars Trivial Pursuit, and he gave all of us a run for our money. (even Matt!)
Chandler Loves the outdoors, in all the seasons. He recently became a big fan of hiking, and is usually the first one up any mountain we decide to hike. This summer we went hiking with some friends, and when the mother (was was pregnant) got tired and we decided to head back down before reaching the top, Chandler was very disappointed. After parting with our friends at the parking lot, Chandler talked us into heading over to another trail, and we hiked up that mountain that same day. 
Chandler loves his relatives. Especially the Grandma's. And while he is almost as tall as his Grandma Stastny, and catching up to his Grandma Christensen, he is never too big, or too cool to give out hugs. 
Chandler has always loved books. But learning to read was a struggle for Chandler. K-2nd grade were stressful and emotional years for our family as we tried to encourage him not to give up. We knew that once he figured out the power reading gives an individual, there would be no stopping Chandler. About a month ago, Chandler came home with a thick book from the library. White Fang. I raised an eye brow, and wondered if he'd really finish it, or just skim through. I was pleasantly surprised as I watching him skip TV, playing, and even treats in order to finish his book in a 36 hour period. Now, instead of begging him to pick up a book, I have the opposite problem, and have to beg him to come in to eat dinner, or turn off the lights for bed.
Chandler is an amazingly good big brother. He was only 17 months old when Gabe joined our family, and only 4 when Morgan came along. I can always count on his help with his brother and sister, and he has also become a great help to some of the mothers in our ward with little ones. He entertains them, coos at them, and plays with them to keep them happy.
I just put this in, because Chandler hates taking pictures, and when he finally looks at the camera, I usually get a cheesy grin like the one above. 
Chandler has the most amazing blue eyes and long eye lashes. I am jealous of them often. I am also awed by the sweet spirit he is in our home, and how grateful I am to be entrusted to mother this wonderful spirit. I am sure Heavenly Father has a plan for him, and can't wait to see him continue to grow and mature into the wonderful young man he is soon becoming.
Sunday, November 29, 2009
The BIG BAD WOLF!
No Twi-fans, I don't been Jacob Black. Its our very own Gabe! He earned his wolf badge last month at Pack Meeting, and I'm just now getting around to posting pictures. He was so excited, and just busting with pride. (Gabe was excited too:)
Team Edward, definately! (unless Jacob is shirtless)
I hosted Bunko this month, and it was great! Our Bunko night fell on the 21st, (the day after New Moon came out!) So our theme, of course had to be Twilight oriented! Here' s our group, minus one Anna. :)
I made Red Velvet Cupcakes with Cream Cheese frosting, and splattered them with danish dessert, in order to look like blood.
I printed off Twilight quotes and framed them for the table. Then my friend Rosie added the red table cloth and candles. 
Water bottles filled with red Chrystal light, and I printed off blood labels.
Close ups of the cupcakes.
As part of the prizes, I made shirts for everyone. (bought plain shirts and Michael's, and Matt helped me design Twilight logos for them, then I ironed them on) Jessica and Renae are modeling theirs.
Close ups of the cupcakes.
As part of the prizes, I made shirts for everyone. (bought plain shirts and Michael's, and Matt helped me design Twilight logos for them, then I ironed them on) Jessica and Renae are modeling theirs.Happy Thanksgiving!
Thanksgiving at the Stastny's house was a little bit different and unconventional. (seeing as we didn't spend it at our house, but at hotel pool instead) With all family out of town, or spending Thanksgiving with their in-laws this year, we decided to take it easy, and checked into the Courtyard Marriott for the night. There was a pool there, so guess where my kids wanted to spend all of their time?
Gabe having fun jumping in. Over and over and over!
Morgan is reluctant to swim on her own. Maybe its because she's the baby of the family, but when it comes to swimming pools, she's like a little Koala baby. Very clingy.
Other than the pool, we had fun staying up late playing Clue (very fun to play with kids who can't keep secrets to save their life), eating pizza and other junk food. Then for the actual Thanksgiving dinner, we opted for Cattle Company. (can't beat a steak dinner on Turkey day, right?) The best part of our weekend? No family fights, no 24 hours of prep cooking, no dishes, and we still came out with turkey dinner leftovers for the next day. (the kids had the 3 course turkey dinner at Cattle Company.)
Gabe having fun jumping in. Over and over and over!
Morgan is reluctant to swim on her own. Maybe its because she's the baby of the family, but when it comes to swimming pools, she's like a little Koala baby. Very clingy.
Other than the pool, we had fun staying up late playing Clue (very fun to play with kids who can't keep secrets to save their life), eating pizza and other junk food. Then for the actual Thanksgiving dinner, we opted for Cattle Company. (can't beat a steak dinner on Turkey day, right?) The best part of our weekend? No family fights, no 24 hours of prep cooking, no dishes, and we still came out with turkey dinner leftovers for the next day. (the kids had the 3 course turkey dinner at Cattle Company.)
Riding Sun Dance in sub zero weather.
The kids and I visited Aunt Sally at the horse arena a few weeks back, and they each enjoyed a little time on Sundance. (had I known when I left the house via the garage it was about 0 degrees, I may have chosen warmer cloths for me and the kids. Like long underwear and parkas)
Morgan riding bareback.
Gabe was all excited about it, till he actually got up on the huge horse, and then he got very nervous. We had to keep telling him to sit up straight, as he was very tempted to lean forward and grip the mane instead of balancing.
I had to sneak in this picture of my gorgeous little niece Christa. What a cuty, hu?
Chandler found this hand towel in the warming room right before his lesson, and since he'd forgotten to wear a knit hat, thought it would help keep his head warm under his helmet.
Chandler has always loved riding horses, and has recently started up lessons again with Aunt Sally. He is very comfortable up on Sun dance, but says he can't wait till he gets to ride in a saddle so he's not walking bull legged anymore. Sally told him it wouldn't matter. Either way, he needed to learn to get some "balls of steel". To which he replied, "where can I get me some of those? Cause easy trotting really hurts my tenders". Yeah, what can I say? he's all boy, and these are direct quotes, so I'm sorry if it offends anyone.
Morgan riding bareback. 
Gabe was all excited about it, till he actually got up on the huge horse, and then he got very nervous. We had to keep telling him to sit up straight, as he was very tempted to lean forward and grip the mane instead of balancing.
I had to sneak in this picture of my gorgeous little niece Christa. What a cuty, hu?
Chandler found this hand towel in the warming room right before his lesson, and since he'd forgotten to wear a knit hat, thought it would help keep his head warm under his helmet.
Chandler has always loved riding horses, and has recently started up lessons again with Aunt Sally. He is very comfortable up on Sun dance, but says he can't wait till he gets to ride in a saddle so he's not walking bull legged anymore. Sally told him it wouldn't matter. Either way, he needed to learn to get some "balls of steel". To which he replied, "where can I get me some of those? Cause easy trotting really hurts my tenders". Yeah, what can I say? he's all boy, and these are direct quotes, so I'm sorry if it offends anyone. 
Friday, November 27, 2009
I'm thankful for....
...the fact that my children choose to repeat the minor infractions on my bad language, instead of the major.
Let me set the scene. We're cleaning the boys room today, almost done. I'm trying to get the boys to understand the meaning of "putting our cloths away". Which does not include, setting them on the dresser and leaving it for months, jamming them into the bottom of the closet, shoving them under the bed, or leaving them in various corners of the house taking much more time to find these hiding places verses actually taking seconds to put them away in the right place. Chandler gets sick of my ranting, and starts singing. "We wish you a merry Christmas, we wish you a merry Christmas, we wish you a merry Christmas, and a Happy New Year!"
Morgan chimes in: "we wiss you a mewwy Kismas, we wiss...."
Gabe corrects them all on their grammar usage.
Chandler: Now bring us some yummy pudding, now bring us some yummy pudding, now..."
Gabe: No Chandler, its Figgy Pudding!
Chandler: "Now bring us some Figgy Pudding, now bring us some figgy pudding..."
Gabe: No, Chandler, its "bring us A figgy pudding"
Chandler: " Now bring us A figgy pudding..."
They all start to sing together, but the only thing I hear is Morgan's rendition.
Morgan: "now bring us some freakin' pudding, now bring us some freakin' pudding..."
Luckily, I was turned around with my back to them, so they didn't see me crack a smile. But I'm afraid my "Shelby shake" gave me away to the older ones.
Let me set the scene. We're cleaning the boys room today, almost done. I'm trying to get the boys to understand the meaning of "putting our cloths away". Which does not include, setting them on the dresser and leaving it for months, jamming them into the bottom of the closet, shoving them under the bed, or leaving them in various corners of the house taking much more time to find these hiding places verses actually taking seconds to put them away in the right place. Chandler gets sick of my ranting, and starts singing. "We wish you a merry Christmas, we wish you a merry Christmas, we wish you a merry Christmas, and a Happy New Year!"
Morgan chimes in: "we wiss you a mewwy Kismas, we wiss...."
Gabe corrects them all on their grammar usage.
Chandler: Now bring us some yummy pudding, now bring us some yummy pudding, now..."
Gabe: No Chandler, its Figgy Pudding!
Chandler: "Now bring us some Figgy Pudding, now bring us some figgy pudding..."
Gabe: No, Chandler, its "bring us A figgy pudding"
Chandler: " Now bring us A figgy pudding..."
They all start to sing together, but the only thing I hear is Morgan's rendition.
Morgan: "now bring us some freakin' pudding, now bring us some freakin' pudding..."
Luckily, I was turned around with my back to them, so they didn't see me crack a smile. But I'm afraid my "Shelby shake" gave me away to the older ones.
Friday, November 13, 2009
A Crafting Retreat
From left to right: Me, Bobbie, Brandy, Kerri, Sally, Teresa, Renae, Heather, Mom, then on the bottom is Tyan, Rosie, Karlie and Jessica. 
A couple of us decided to organize our own little make and take weekend at LaDaSa last week. We had a blast! There were countdown blocks, place mat purses, beaded watches, and all kinds of other fun things to do. We reserved the lodge for an overnighter, and crafted till we couldn't keep our eyes open, then got some sleep and woke up to craft again the next day.
My friend Rosie sanding her countdown blocks.
Karlie working on her beads.
My Halloween Countdown Blocks. Cute, hu?
I do have the word Countdown on the bottom block, but its turned around in this photo. Oops. If you want to see some of our other projects, feel free to visit the blog we created.
A couple of us decided to organize our own little make and take weekend at LaDaSa last week. We had a blast! There were countdown blocks, place mat purses, beaded watches, and all kinds of other fun things to do. We reserved the lodge for an overnighter, and crafted till we couldn't keep our eyes open, then got some sleep and woke up to craft again the next day. 
My friend Rosie sanding her countdown blocks.
Karlie working on her beads.
My Halloween Countdown Blocks. Cute, hu?
I do have the word Countdown on the bottom block, but its turned around in this photo. Oops. If you want to see some of our other projects, feel free to visit the blog we created.
Monday, November 2, 2009
Halloween NIght.
First of all, these are horrible pictures, and as soon as Matt gets home with the memory stick, I'll put better ones on, but here's our crew on Halloween night. We had the Three Musketeers (yes, we know their not supposed to be different colors, but the boys liked having their own color each) Then Morgan was a Fairy Princess, and I was Miss Diagnosed, a beauty pageant reject.
We're not in Kansas anymore Todo.
We've had a couple of really sunny but windy days out here in the valley. I took this shot of Wasilla Lake one evening on my way to Matt's work. On a normal day, you can see the reflection of the trees and mountains in the lake. Check out all the white caps this day!
All through our neighborhood, people had trees coming down. My neighbor actually had a big cotton wood between our two properties come down right on her garage. I went to take a picture a few hours later though, and they had already hauled it away. This is what our yard looked like at the end of a really windy day though.
The tree hit the trampoline so hard the top half snapped off on impact. The pad was blown off, and notice the chairs all over the yard? Ya, we've gotta get them all stacked back up now.
Even Matt's store was not immune to the weather. He lost one of his lights. Notice the one on the far left? Yup, snapped right off in the wind. (there's supposed to be 4 lights.)
All through our neighborhood, people had trees coming down. My neighbor actually had a big cotton wood between our two properties come down right on her garage. I went to take a picture a few hours later though, and they had already hauled it away. This is what our yard looked like at the end of a really windy day though. 
The tree hit the trampoline so hard the top half snapped off on impact. The pad was blown off, and notice the chairs all over the yard? Ya, we've gotta get them all stacked back up now. 
Even Matt's store was not immune to the weather. He lost one of his lights. Notice the one on the far left? Yup, snapped right off in the wind. (there's supposed to be 4 lights.)
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