Elder Family Events

Provo beach resort, more Ice Cream and Rylie's game

2012-02-01T17:11:00.000-08:00

Scott wanted to take Norah on a adventure. So we took her to Provo beach resort. Jessie takes her here all the time and she loves it. She loved going down the slide with or without Rylie. Then we took her to Maceys for Ice Cream. Scott took her in that nasty car. She loved it and cried when we tried to take her out. Then we went to Rylie's game. Norah loved watching Rylie cheer and would do some of the cheers with the girls. It was cute. Also she wanted the ball. The basketball that is. It was so cute.

Another fun outing with Norah

2012-01-30T11:02:00.000-08:00

Scott, Rylie, Norah and I went to Blickenstaff's at The Shops At Riverwoods. Norah really didn't like the horse ride. But she loved the shopping cart, the toys, the bikes, the balls and everything else. She was so fun running from one thing to another. Scott loves being a Granddaddy and that he was free that day to come with us.

Norah's first visit to the Monte L. Bean Museum

2012-01-27T18:48:00.000-08:00

We are watching Norah for 8 days while Mom and Dad on on a cruise. We have been loving it. So much fun. She is the perfect little angle. We took her to the Bean Museum and out for ice cream. She LOVED it. She was loving the Museum and was smiling and laughing and running around enjoying all the animals. I would take my kids there when they were little. It was a lot of fun. Then for ice cream. Norah eat hers and wanted to eat ours. We did share because she is so cute.

Looking at some old pictures.

2012-01-19T20:51:00.000-08:00

From upper left Sam, Joe, Dad, Ernie, Barb, Judy, Mom and Debbie
I think I made the dress I am wearing.

Not sure how old I am in this picture but I am guessing maybe 12?

I have the best family ever! Growing up we moved a lot so we were a very close family. We didn't live in a neighborhood we lived out with lots of land. We love playing together outside. I have never been a big TV watcher I think because of this. We love exploring outside. I had the best childhood. Love my family.

Proud Mom moment/ Jessie at the Thanksgiving Point's Wedding Expo

2012-01-14T15:25:00.000-08:00

Jason and Jessie in her booth

Geoff and Stacy's picture

Hailey on the cover of Utah Valley Bride Photo by Jessie Alexis Photography

Hailey's wedding article and Jessie ad. So beautiful. What an honor it is for Jessie to be featured and have a cover. She has worked so hard to get where she is. What a wonderful husband and a GREAT support he is to her. Jessie just called to tell me how blessed she feels to have her family and their support. Geoff and Scott helped by getting the table and the doors there. Rylie is babysitting a sick Norah today so Jessie can shout her wedding and work her booth. Jason has been there all day manning the booth. Family that's what it is all about.

Rylie's busy life

2012-01-14T10:18:00.000-08:00

Rylie keeps very busy with friends, cheer, school and family. She has great friends for which we are grateful! She loves cheer! She got asked to a Liahona dance last night. Andrew Boyle . He is a good friend of Rylie's I am sure they will have a great time.

Lunch at Jackie's

2012-01-06T08:17:00.000-08:00

We had lunch at Jackie's this month and it was FABULOUS!! Keep checking her blog for the recipe. It was amazing I have been craving it! Can't wait to get this recipe. http://purplechocolathome.blogspot.com/ Great time with the girls. We all shared our favorite Christmas memories. Thanks Jackie!!

Time to go home

2012-01-05T14:11:00.000-08:00

We had a blast at the cabin for Christmas. Now it's time to go home. We didn't get to play in the snow much because there wasn't that great of snow. The kids did go sledding once. I missed out they said it was great. I sure I was cooking or something. Pray for snow!!

Making Jewelry at the cabin

2012-01-04T07:57:00.000-08:00

Stacy is so creative. So we decided to make jewelry at the cabin this year for fun.

Rylie found this bird nest Necklaces on Pinterest. Check it out http://www.sarahortega.com/2011/05/diy-bird-nest-necklace.html. It was easy and a lot of fun.

Playing Kinect Games

2012-01-02T21:10:00.000-08:00

We love getting and playing Kinect games for Christmas. This year we got Just Dance, Kinect Sports: Season Two and Minute to Win It. Its a lot of fun.

Christmas morning video

2012-01-01T00:59:00.000-08:00

Christmas at the Cabin

2012-01-01T00:25:00.000-08:00

We had a great time at the cabin. Christmas was so fun and everyone was happy. Scott got the bongo drums so he can play for Norah and she can dance. Rylie got an iPhone, Carlie and I got Nook Tablets and Geoff and Stacy got new cloths. Geoff and Stacy did a sub for Santa this year and really had a great experiences. We really missed Jason, Jessie and Norah.

Christmas at the Cabin. Put up the Christmas tree and decorating.

2011-12-31T09:04:00.000-08:00

Our Christmas tree this year was big and beautiful! The decorations are just a bunch of left overs. My kids keep telling me to buy more. But why? It's a cabin. I love having a fresh tree and because its so cold at the cabin while we are not there it keeps for ever and smells wonderful. I love Christmas at the cabin.

Rylie has a Cheer sleepover

2011-12-31T08:49:00.000-08:00

A few days before Christmas Rylie had a Cheer sleepover. She was very excited because we don't do sleepovers. Why I let this happen I don't know. They didn't go to sleep until 6:00 AM. That's one good reason we don't do sleep overs.

How we get our Christmas tree to our cabin

2011-12-31T08:42:00.000-08:00

We get a fresh cut tree from Lowe's a few days before Christmas. We get it at the discount price of $20.00

We put it on the back of our snow cat and drive it up. This is when Santa delivers his gifts to our cabin also. So he must have ever gift bought and wrapped to take it up a few days before Christmas. Now Santa can enjoy the rest of the Christmas season.

Elder family Christmas party-A Not-So-Silent night

2011-12-21T22:17:00.000-08:00

Can you stack the -cup-with-one-hand-in-a minute game

The Nut-stacker

The girls made this

So Norah could do this

We had a wonderful meal. Then played minute to win it. We had a great time. Then Scott gave us a spiritual

thought. It was a great night. Merry Christmas!

Christmas luncheon with some girl friends

2011-12-20T08:51:00.000-08:00

Annette, Tammy, me, Rachael and Jackie

Appetizer at my house

Tammy crystal glasses. Beautiful!

Main dish at Annette's

Dessert at Jackie's

We had a wonderful time going from house to house. Seeing everyone's beautiful homes all decorated for Christmas. The food was wonderful. We were missing Karen, Breta and Loree. Its been a lot of fun having these luncheons to go to each month. So fun. Thanks ladies for your friendship.

Merry Christmas from the Elder family!

2011-12-15T19:21:00.001-08:00

It's a great day when you have this truck at your house!

2011-12-15T16:37:00.000-08:00

I love my new picture frame made by Four Chairs. Beautiful!!

New bag I made for a white elephant gift.

2011-12-15T16:32:00.000-08:00

Merrill family Christmas party 2011

2011-12-15T16:29:00.000-08:00

Tyson and his new man bag from a white elephant gift. (Good thing Stacy stole it from him)

Cami and Dallan

Amberly and Lacey

My girls. Rylie, Stacy, Carlie, Jessie and Norah.

We had a great time with the Merrill family. Amberly came up to help her sister Cami with her new baby. It was so fun to have her here. We had the best food and a lot of fun just being together. Love you all!!

Happy 28th Anniversary!!

2011-12-04T19:58:00.000-08:00

28 years ago and it was so cold and snow on the ground

I am so thankful I married this sweet man. He is respectful, kind, loving and so supportive of me and our family. I am so much more in love with him then I was 28 years ago. He makes me happy everyday!!

Look at the great blessing it has been. Four beautiful children. Two wonderful in-laws. One BEAUTIFUL grand baby. Being married to Scott is wonderful. He is a wonderful priesthood holder, good husband and great father. We are so blessed to have him in our life. Love you Scott FOREVER!!!

Happy Anniversary Geoff and Stacy Elder

2011-12-01T10:04:00.000-08:00

Geoff, Stacy and Bishop Mella

Geoff and Stacy are an amazing couple. They will do great things in this life. Geoff and Stacy dated for years. I loved Stacy the day I met her. To see them marry in the San Diego Temple is something I thank my Heavenly Father ever day. I am grateful for them and love having Stacy in our family. Love you and hope you celebrate big.

A sneak peak of our Thanksgiving at the Cabin

2011-11-29T10:38:00.000-08:00

More pictures from David and Diana's visit

2011-11-29T10:06:00.000-08:00

Scott's brother and his wife came to visit.

2011-11-22T21:35:00.000-08:00

David, Diana, me and Scott at the Grill Room at Sundance

Diana, David, Scott and I at the cabin

Playing ticket to ride

At Temple square

Love this picture

We had a wonderful time with David and Diana!! We hadn't seen them for over 12 or 13 years. It was great to spend time with them. Being at the cabin was so fun just hanging out and playing games. Temple square was a short visit but beautiful. It was a short visit but it was fun!!

Carlie graduates from Hair School 11/11/11

2011-11-13T18:49:00.000-08:00

Carlie, Chelsea and Taylor graduate from Renaissance Academie De Hair Design. So proud of Carlie she worked really hard. She is the first to graduate in her class. Chelsea and Taylor are cute girls from Las Vegas who lived with us for about three months. Carlie is very good at doing hair and is going to do great.

Cami has her baby

2011-11-13T18:42:00.000-08:00

My niece had her baby. A cute boy.Baby Hyrum born Oct. 31 2011 at 11:13pm6.9 lbs 17.5 inches long 5 weeks early. Judy, Jessie, Rylie, Lacey and Norah went up to see them. Cami is so much fun. Hyrum is beautiful!

Gratitude

2011-11-03T20:59:00.000-07:00

Gratitude is a divine principle of the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

"Feeling gratitude and not expressing it is like wrapping a present and not giving it"

I love Thanksgiving and I love sharing what we are grateful for. Every night after family prayers we share what we are thankful for. We have truly been blessed with many wonderful blessing, for life itself and for being a family, for good health , for living so close to a temple, for wonderful children also for our Savior Jesus Christ. I love this time of year and hope we will all feel grateful for the many blessing God has given.

Halloween The cat in the Hat and Thing 1 and Thing 2

2011-11-02T11:11:00.000-07:00

Carlie and her roommates Chelsea and Taylor

Carlie, Chelsea and Taylor went Trick or Treating over to our friends The Williamsons. Check out Jackie's blog Here. They always do something really fun at her house. Then they came home had friends over and watched a movie. Rylie went to a few parties and Scott and I took care of the Trick or Treaters at our house.

Rylie's 17th birthday

2011-10-27T13:09:00.000-07:00

As always we have friends over and eat crepes.

We had friends from Liahona and OHS cheer

We went out for dinner

Norah loves her ice cream

The girls went to Pizzeria 712 for lunch

We missed Stacy for lunch she was getting ready for a cruise. Lucky her. Rylie had a great birthday and lots of love from friends and family. Rylie is an amazing girl. Loved by all.

Facebook can be a great thing.

2011-10-25T08:16:00.000-07:00

I wake up yesterday morning to find this on my Facebook wall.

A mothers payday!!

Dear momma, I just felt that you should know that today I'm grateful for you and all that you do. The amazing example that you are to me, and the love and patience you give me, especially these last few months. You keep saying that I was the example to you the other day, but its only because you're such a great example to me everyday! I am who I am because of you, and I'm so grateful for everything you do, the amazing example you've been to me and what you've taught me and raised me up to know. I'm grateful for what you are and what you stand for. You do so much for me, and I know I don't always show it, but I truly appreciate it. You're the best mom in the whole world, and I wouldn't be where I am if it wasnt for you!! Thanks for everything you do, and for always being so strong. I love you, mom! Don't you ever forget that. :) and thanks for teaching me to always be grateful. You're the best!!

Payday for a mother! Thank you Carlie Frances Elder This makes it all worth it. You are amazing and I am one lucky lady to be your mother. Love ya!!!!!

Norah

2011-10-19T10:07:00.000-07:00

We can't get enough of her. She blesses our life. Love you Norah!

Geoff's 23rd bithday

2011-10-14T21:55:00.000-07:00

Geoff and Stacy (love this girl)

Geoff loves Norah so much. He is such a fun uncle

Jessie, Carlie and the birthday boy

The birthday boy, Stacy and Rylie

Me and Scott

Jason, Norah and Jessie

Norah loves to help

We went to Malawi's for dinner as a family. Very yummy! Then Norah helped Geoff open presents. Stacy gave Geoff a birthday party at our house. Such yummy food. Beautiful cake and a lot of fun.

Norah and Geoff

2011-10-12T19:23:00.000-07:00

Norah loves Geoff and the outside shower.

We can't get enough of her. She is soooooo fun!!

Liahona Youth Conference

2011-10-12T19:13:00.000-07:00

Lydia, Jessie, Rylie, Chole, Mollie and ?

Lydia and Rylie

Carlie

Carlie and Rylie went to Liahona Youth Conference up at Aspen Grove. This is a lot of fun for my girls. They have great speakers that come and share their talents. A lot of them are EFY and CES speakers. One of my girls favorite is Hank Smith. They have a great time.

Three cheerleader who cheered for OHS Homecoming

2011-09-30T12:42:00.000-07:00

Carlie and Rylie

Rylie and her cheer friends

Carlie with her cheer friends that came to cheer for OHS

Carlie, Taylor and Chelsea

The Tiger

Carlie and her friends that come back to cheer for Homecoming

This year at OHS Homecoming I had all three of my girls cheering in the last quarter. All former cheerleaders were invited to cheer for Homecoming. Jessie, Carlie and Rylie cheered for the game. Sorry no pictures of Jessie. My camera died . So sad. I did borrow my neighbors. I will have to get those pictures from her.

Rylie homecoming at OHS

2011-09-28T09:21:00.000-07:00

Rylie went to OHS Homecoming with Cory Jeffs. For the day date they went power tumbling. I guess Cory is a great tumbler. Carlie and her friends Chelsea and Taylor helped with the getting ready for the dance. Her hair was done by Taylor and I won't say who did the make up because as you can see WAY to much! The makeup was done just as Cory got to the house. No time to fix it. Oh well. They had a great time anyway. Cory was such a gentlemen. Thanks Cory for treating my daughter like a princess. The world needs my guys like this.

Forget Not...

2011-09-24T22:12:00.000-07:00

An amazing talk by President Uchtodorf. We are so blessed to be daughters of God and sisters in RS. Thanks you President Uchtodorf for this wonderful talk. Forget not...

Uncle Geoff

2011-09-19T12:16:00.000-07:00

Geoff loving on Norah at the cabin. They love each other. Geoff is so good with kids. I believe that he was more excited to see Norah then anyone else when he got home from Summer sales.

Rylie cheering

2011-09-14T16:52:00.000-07:00

OHS played Provo and we creamed them. Rylie looked great!!

Labor day weekend ATV ride and picnic

2011-09-08T19:52:00.000-07:00

Rylie and Norah

Carlie, Stacy and Geoff

For Labor day weekend we went to the Cabin. We went on a trial ride up to skyline drive and had a picnic. It was a little cold and and long ride. Norah was cute in the rhino. She feel a sleep. Geoff, Stacy, Scott and I keep going and the rest went back to the cabin after lunch. It was a beautiful ride. What a beautiful ride in the beautiful world God created for us.

Rylie dancing at half time

2011-09-02T09:33:00.000-07:00

Rylie, Grace and Paisley

She is having so much fun.

Rylie's first game at OHS

2011-09-02T09:25:00.000-07:00

Getting ready to leave

Rylie cheering at her first game so cute!

Rylie is loving cheering for OHS. She has meet some really cute fun girls and loves to spend time with them. She enjoys cheering and is so darling to watch.

And this is how Rylie answered

2011-08-31T21:06:00.000-07:00

When you lift up the box six pink balloons float up with pig faces on them. So cute. Thanks Stacy for helping. You made it much more fun for Rylie.

Rylie got asked to OHS homecoming

2011-08-29T20:08:00.000-07:00

Rylie got asked to OHS homecoming. She meet Cory Jeffs a few weeks ago and they are fun friends. He is going to be a fun date.

Hailey and Jordon Mabey

2011-08-29T19:52:00.000-07:00

Hailey is the daughter of my dear friend Lynette Kern. Lynette and I were missionary companions. Hailey is a doll and I have loved watching her grow up. I am glad I was able to be apart of her wedding day. Love you Hailey!

Manti temple with Rylie and Lydia

2011-08-29T19:44:00.000-07:00

Rylie, Lydia and I went down to Manti one day and Rylie and Lydia went to the temple and did baptisms. Then we went to our favorite pizza place in Ephraim. So yummy. Then we went to our cabin and ended up spending the night. Just for fun. We had a great time.

Elder Tyson Gray

2011-08-27T07:44:00.000-07:00

The Gray family waiting for Tyson to return from his mission from the Peru Lima East Mission.

The Elder's (Barb and Rylie) waiting

Elder Gray at the top

Courtany, Zoey and Tyson

Ryan, Lindsey, Judy, Tyson, Russell and Lacey

Tyson, Aspen, Lindsey and Raider

Rylie, Elder Gray and Me

Tyson is Judy's 4th boy to go on a mission. He has always been such a good boy. Geoff and Tyson have really enjoyed each other. Geoff loves Tyson and is excited to spend time with him again. Tyson thanks for being such a great kid and a great example to us all.

My Dad

2011-08-19T18:48:00.000-07:00

While in California Scott and I went to visit my Dad. We went to Church with him. Then had lunch together. It was so great to see him and Lila. Love you Dad.

Road trip/ Scott's High School reunion

2011-08-18T13:59:00.000-07:00

Can you believe how beautiful this is. God created this beautiful world because he loves us. I keep saying "this takes my breath away."

Scott and Jim

Scott and some of his high school friends.

These are some of Scott's LDS friends. We had a get together before. It was a lot of fun.

The best Demolition Derby EVER!!

2011-08-12T10:49:00.000-07:00

This was the most exciting derby ever! The drivers were aggressive. Cars rolling over, hitting the gate all kinds of fun! We had a great 24th this year. We just missed Geoff and Stacy. This is the first Demolition Derby that Stacy didn't get to come. Maybe next year. Thanks Scott for always getting us tickets. WE LOVE IT!!

We played a lot of Star Wars Monopoly over the 24th

2011-08-12T10:34:00.000-07:00

Hiking at the cabin over the 24th

2011-08-12T10:29:00.000-07:00

Jason, Jessie, Norah and Scott

We had to ride to get to the hike.

Rylie, Jessie and Scott

Love Jason's hair.

We went on a hike while at the cabin for the 24th. It was a lot of fun. This hike was shaded. So nice and along the river. God created a beautiful world!!

Rylie and OHS Cheer Camp

2011-08-06T09:25:00.000-07:00

Coach Debbie

OHS Cheerleaders

Hunter, Brittany, Rylie

Justin Bieber was at EFY at the U of U

The car ride to cheer camp

They got a lot of awards

Rylie went to Cheer camp and loved it. She is really enjoy OHS cheer and she is making a lot of new friends.

Carlie had a pool party

2011-08-02T08:51:00.000-07:00

Andrew. Carlie did this to his hair.

Andrew

Jeni Irvin

Zac Allen (cousin) Kylie Gray (cousin)

A lot of pizza

Carlie's cousins come from out of town and so they had a pool party. The weather was great and they ate a lot of pizza. So fun! The pool has been a great thing.

Youth conference

2011-08-02T08:39:00.000-07:00

Aaron Kennedy, Rylie, Chelsey Broberg and Allison Lefebvre

Allison, Rylie, Chelsey, and Alexa Ortiz

Ellery, Rylie, Chelsey, and Madison Bunker

The Canyon View 9th ward went to youth conference at Bear lake. Rylie had a wonderful time and really enjoyed our ward. They stated out with doing baptisms in the Draper Temple. Then to Bear Lake. They stayed in the KOA camp ground and really had a great time. They went on Boats and in the water. They went to some cave. Ate pizza and had some great spiritual lessons. Thanks to everyone for putting this together.

My girls

2011-07-27T08:35:00.000-07:00

Picture was take on the 4th of July

I love this! My girls are so different in looks and personality. But they are so much alike and really enjoy each other.

OHS cheer swim party

2011-07-27T08:33:00.000-07:00

Cute girls

Cute girls and yummy food

Beautiful

We had the OHS cheer swim party at our house. It was a lot of fun. The food was great. It was a pot luck lunch. I really enjoy having people enjoy our pool. Good time by all who could come.

American Fork Parade

2011-07-27T08:15:00.000-07:00

Carlie and Emily passing out free hair cuts

Our Friend Hannah Harkness Miss Orem

Orem High cheerleaders (Rylie) in the parade for Copper's run.

Both my girls were in the AF parade.

4 th of July swim party with the Helstens and Dastrups

2011-07-27T07:39:00.000-07:00

The food was great and the kids had a great time.

Norah's Birthday party

2011-07-19T08:50:00.000-07:00

On July 2, Jessie gave Norah a beautiful birthday party. With cake, presents, yummy food and some swimming. We had a wonderful time watching Norah destroy her cake. She had more fun playing with it then eating it. Scott's mom and her husband Frank came from California to celibate. We had a great time. Norah is one lucky little girl. She is so loved by all.

Swim party

2011-07-13T11:42:00.000-07:00

Kennedy

Boston and Macoy

Rylie and Norah

Avery

Sweet Norah

This is one of the first swim parties. Jill came over with her kids and brought her friend Nicole Ahlmann. She has three beautiful girls. We love swimming!!

More of Mexico Boat ride to Isla de la Mujeres

2011-07-12T21:36:00.000-07:00

Carlie loved this little guy

We went to this Island to shop, rent golf carts, and go to the beach. I didn't buy anything. Oh wait I did buy Carlie a back pack. It was a fun day and the girls had a great time.

The Ruins at Uxmal

2011-07-12T09:57:00.000-07:00

Our guide

The sun was in Carlie's eyes

Rylie, Me and Carlie

Carlie, Andrew, Sarah, the Oaks boy and David

Rachael and I

Axmal was the greatest metropolitan and religious center in Puuc hills of Yucatan during the late Classical period flourishing between the 7th and 10th centuries AD. Uxmal translates as "thrice built" and, whatever the actual number, the numerous building phases are reflected in variety of architectural styles. The city was abandoned in the 10 th century after apparently coming under Toltec influence.

The pyramid of the Magician, at 100 feet the tallest structure in Uxmal, is more accurately named.

Uxmal Mexico part 3

2011-07-12T07:36:00.000-07:00

Beautiful swimming pool. We never swim in it because it rained most of the time we were there

Bathroom door

Front door to our room

Beautiful bathroom

We played Lagreto (a fun fast movie card game) at night on the porch

Andrew, Rylie and Matt

See the rain coming down?

Rylie and Katelyn's bathroom door

I loved this hotel. The decor was so fun. We had a great time. The ruins here were great those pictures to come.

More of Mexico Part 2

2011-07-06T12:46:00.000-07:00

A fishing village founded in the early 1960's. Beautiful white sandy beaches and amazing snorkeling an scuba diving.

David, Andrew and the Oaks boy

Rylie, Mel, Dolly, Carlie and Andrew

Barb and Rachel

Beautiful white sandy beaches

Katelyn, Rylie, Mel and Carlie

Mexico with my girls and Liahona Part 1

2011-07-03T05:12:00.000-07:00

Meliane Myler and Carlie

Rachael, Katelyn, Rylie and Sarah

Dancing in Mexico

Lisa and I having fun

Rylie dancing at the Restaurant

On June 11th Carlie Rylie and I went to Cuncun Mexico with Liahona. We went for a week. We had so much fun. We stayed in the Hilton on the beach. BEAUTIFUL! We had an amazing time. Racheal and Katelyn Williams went. The Williams were our next door neighbors for over 15 yr before we move to our new home. We went with a lot of other great people. In the past when we have gone we did service in a Mayan Village. This time we just had fun. We went to a lot of ruins and some fun beaches. Pictures to come.

Norah's 1st birthday.

2011-06-30T08:45:00.000-07:00

Don't you just love that face

She loves corn on the cob

She LOVES the pool

She loves books

She got a baby doll. I don't think she knows what to do with it

But the slide was a big hit

We had a small party for Norah on Monday. We ate good food, swam and opened presents. Jessie is throwing a big party on Saturday. Granny is coming, and we are so excited. Happy birthday Norah!! We love you!

Rylie going to Girls Camp

2011-06-29T09:29:00.000-07:00

Sister Nielsen and Rylie

Canyon View Stake Girls camp.

Rylie left Monday for girls camp. I am so excited for her. They go to Heber Valley camp. It is beautiful. Beautiful cabins, refrigerators, stove tops. The girls love it. Our ward does an amazing job of making girls camp fun and spiritual. My girls have gained a greater love for their Savior and for his Gospel at girls camp.Thank you to all the YW leaders and the time you take to give to these Young Women!

First swim of the season

2011-06-29T07:33:00.000-07:00

Rylie was the first one in the pool this year. This is the end of May

Grace, Lydia, Katelyn and Rylie

It was a cold day and the pool was a little cold but Rylie and her friend couldn't wait to get in. Having a pool as been so fun and a blessing for our family. We have had a few pool parties already this summer and look forward to the one on Saturday celebrating Norah's birthday!

Happy birthday Norah. Your are a great joy and blessing to our family!

2011-06-27T07:31:00.001-07:00

Cheryl, Granny, and Me (Grandmothers, and Great Grandmother)

Uncle Geoff and Aunt Stacy

Happy Granddaddy

Norah swimming with Jessie

Aunt Rylie and Aunt Carlie

Love this picture

Norah driving the Rhino

Norah loves her mommy

I love to sew for Norah

Happy birthday Norah. We will celebrate! You have been so fun. We just can't get enough of you. You make us smile and laugh. We look so forward to more baby Evans to bring us lots and lots for joy. Love you!!

Calie's last Cheer Banquet

2011-06-25T20:56:00.000-07:00

Carlie with Couch Carly

Seniors on the squad

Sariah, Carlie and Cassidy

OHS Squad

Carlie and I made the White and Blue chocolate popcorn

Each year the girls give out awards. Carlie's was the best mom award. The younger girls loved her. At Disneyland Carlie took care of the girls. The all called her mommy.

This was Carlie's last year as a OHS Cheerleader. She loved it and enjoyed her coach and all the girls. I am proud of Carlie. To balance Cheer, Seminary and hair school wasn't easy. Way to go Carlie!

Norah went swimming.

2011-06-23T06:12:00.000-07:00

Norah went swimming for the first time this year. Not sure she loved it. Every time Rylie went under the water she would cry. She better get use to it, because this is what we like to do in the summer time at our house. She is adorable we can't get enough of her.

Lincoln Marshal Dastrup a good family friend.

2011-06-09T14:08:00.000-07:00

Ernie at his wedding with Lincoln as his best man.

Linda is the beautiful blonde. Growing up we knew her as Lindie. This is Lincoln wife.

Lincoln's mom Shirlee Dastrup

Some of Lincoln's grandchildren. The cute boy is Boston.

Linclon and my brother Ernie were childhood friends. Linclon's dad Rue was my father's good friend when I was younger. He helped activate my dad into the church. This family is a wonderful family and Lincoln will be missed. Jarom, Lincoln's son, is Geoff's brother-in law. Small world.

Rylie, Lydia and Katelyn a day is SLC

2011-06-03T14:38:00.000-07:00

I took Rylie, Lydia and Katelyn up to Salt Lake Temple to do baptisms in the SL temple. Then we did a little of Temple Square then to Crown burger for lunch. Yummy to Rylie! She loves it. Then we went to Brigham Young's grave. Then we spent an hour looking for gravity hill by the capital. We couldn't find it but we had fun looking. Then we went to the Salt Lake City cemetery, to see the grave sites of Later day Prophets. Those pictures to come soon. We had a great time!!

Carlie's senior send off. Canyon View 9th ward

2011-06-01T12:01:00.001-07:00

Sara, Carlie and Cassidy

This is a display of a few things about Carlie. Carlie sews, Carlie cheered, Carlie got her YW award, Seminary graduation, Carlie crochets, and her senior pictures.

The Canyon View ward does a senior send off for all the seniors. They have the dad's introduce the girls. Scott did a great job. He told how Carlie is named after her Auntie Carlie on Scott side of the family. She was a wonderful women who helped raise Scott. Talked about Carlie's determination. How when Carlie puts her mind to it she can do anything. What a great daughter she is. etc...

Carlie we are so proud of you and know that your going to do great things.

Sewing for Norah is a lot of fun

2011-05-31T21:09:00.000-07:00

Not only is sewing for Norah fun. Just being with Norah is fun!!

Rylie's last day of school party.

2011-05-29T22:31:00.000-07:00

Hot-N- Ready only $5.00 each.

Rylie invited only a few people over for a small party. That is how it goes. You invite a few, they invite a few. The next thing you know its a ton of people. It was a lot of fun. I just wish that the weather was warmer and I could of sent them outside. Maybe next year.

Sister's trip 4th day.

2011-05-29T16:11:00.000-07:00

We all love Our Savoir.

We did a Temple session in the Salt Lake Temple. What a blessing that we all love the temple and can go together.

Barb, Judy and Debbie at Tyler's Grave. (Don't do drugs)

Judy is a great example of Faith in the Lord Jesus Christ. She can do hard things and teach us to trust in the Lord and never give up.

We as sisters had a wonderful time together. We are so much alike and yet so different. We all are going after the same goal. To live with our Father in Heaven and with our families. We all try to live the Gospel the best we know how. We may do it differently. But we also do it the same. We each have a strong desire to serve and care for others. My sisters are a great example to me. They both have taught me different things. Thank you Debbie for coming out so we could spend this time together to strengthen our relationship and our testimonies. Can't wait for the next trip.

Shopping at the Park City Outlets sister's trip day #3

2011-05-28T14:39:00.000-07:00

We went shopping at the Park City Outlets. It was freezing!! I did very well not buying anything until we hit the last store. J.Crew. We had a blast and bought the same skirt. The deals were great and because Debbie is a Student at BYU. We got another discount. It was fun but a very cold day.

Lion house and Church Museum more of day 2 sister's trip

2011-05-26T07:01:00.000-07:00

At the church Museum we saw a movie. "The stone cutter". Loved it. This is a to repersent those pioneers and their straggles.

Elder Wirthlin came to my mission and I got a hug from him. He has been on of my favorites! I miss his great talks and sweet spirit.

Lunch at the Lion House Pantry.

Yummy!

We had a great time this day. The weather was a little cold. Glad I wore long pants.

Thanksgiving point-Sister's trip day 2

2011-05-23T09:45:00.000-07:00

What is a sister's trip with out ice cream?

Jessie the photographer.

Me and beautiful Norah

Jason, Norah and Jessie

The Merrill girls tradition. Can't have a sister's trip without taking this picture.

We went to Thanksgiving point for some shopping, ice cream and to take pictures for our Dad's father's day gift. What do you get an 84 year old for father's day? We couldn't think of any thing so we thought pictures of his three lovely daughter. With the beautiful flower's God created for our enjoyment. Thanks Jessie!!

Salt Lake City Cemetery. More of day 1. Sister's trip

2011-05-19T18:00:00.000-07:00

Debbie, Barb, and Judy at our 4th great grandfather Samuel Merrill

We meet this way cute girl from France. She was so excited to find President Hinckley's Grave. He was the Prophet when she was baptized. You could feel her love for this great Prophet. She had a heavy accent. A little hard to understand but she was adorable.

President Spence W Kimball was the Prophet when I was called on my mission. He came to Florida while I was serving. I had the blessing of meeting him. He gave me a kiss on the cheek. Wow!! now that was a great experience for me. This was at the begin of my mission. I was so ready to convert the world. I really felt something powerful in his presence.

Judy, Debbie and I at the grave of Brigham Young.

Click here for the information of all the Prophet's gave sites it was so much fun. Debbie is the one in our family the loves family history. She spends a lot of time in cemeteries. We laugh a lot, smiled a lot and just really enjoyed our time doing what we like to do.

Salt Lake temple.

You can see the temple from Brigham Young's gave site.

Sister's trip in Utah. Day 1

2011-05-17T19:23:00.000-07:00

Debbie, Judy and I eating at Parker's Drive In in American Fork. When Judy and I were in High School in Lehi we would go to Parker's. I use to get a hamburger, fries, and a fresh lime for .92 cents. Now the Fresh limes are $1.50 with out the fries or hamburger. It was one of our favorites places to eat. I still like it.

Then we went to Gardner Village for a little shopping.

Our niece Cami lives in Day Break so we went to visit her.

This is her cute son Carter.

Each year Debbie, Judy and I go on a sister's trip. This year Debbie only had a short window of time because she is take some classes so she can graduate from collage. (Way to go Debbie) Debbie came up here and we just did some fun things in Utah. More pictures to come. But lets just say we laugh a lot and had the time of our lives. We love to be together. When we are together I always think how can we be so different from each other yet so much alike. We all get along so we. My sisters are the BEST!!

Just for fun.

2011-05-17T07:50:00.000-07:00

Carlie in Stacy's wedding dress.

Rylie in my wedding dress.

Carlie and Rylie found my wedding dress and played dress up. Stacy was here so Carlie tried on Stacy's dress. Jessie use to try my dress on all the time growing up. Carlie and Rylie loved my dress . For reals. They loved the sleeves and the neck. Don't you just love the hat? So fun. They of course loved wearing Stacy's dress. So beautiful!

Pizza Factory with Stacy

2011-05-16T09:03:00.000-07:00

My Beautiful girls!!

Monday May 9th we took Stacy out to dinner before she leaves to go be with Geoff this summer. Stacy is going Oklahoma. Geoff is doing summer sales again this is his 4th summer. He works for Vinvint, selling alarms. We will miss her. I talked to Geoff last night just after Stacy got there. He is so HAPPY and so is Stacy. Best of luck to the both for you. Have a great summer. Love you both!!!

Norah

2011-05-09T09:29:00.001-07:00

Justs had to share it. She is so much fun!!

Carlie and Ryan. Prom date

2011-05-09T09:15:00.000-07:00

Carlie and Ryan Bascom

Carlie helping Lacey get ready for Prom. Beautiful hair Lacey.

Carlie went to OHS Prom with Ryan Bascom. He is in our stake and Carlie cheered with his sister Brittany. She had a great time. It was a very cold night and the dance was at River Woods outside. There was a small dance hall inside. Carlie said it was very crowded. But a lot of fun. They ate at La Jolla Groves. The food was yummy. Thanks Ryan Carlie had a great time.

Lunch with some of my favorite ladies. Yea for girl friends!!

2011-05-07T10:25:00.000-07:00

My dear friend Diana Jesperson come home for a week from her mission in Guadalajara. Her husband is serving as Mission President. We meet Diana and her family on a cruise. We went on a Book of Mormon cruise about 6 years ago. With the cruise lady. This is a friendship that I cherish. One of those people God sends you because he knows you and loves you. Sue Gubler is another one of my favorite people. We have been dear friends many years. Our kids grew up together. Jessie and Elise went to preschool, all the way through high school. They cheered together. Geoff and Shandon also went to preschool all the way through high school. Still great friends. Rylie and Kim preschool and elementary. The Gublers moved to St. George about 5 years ago. We still keep in touch. Sue has been there for me through the lost of my mother. She has always been a dear friend. This is another friendship that I cherish. Yea for girl friends!!

MaKaye Strong's wedding

2011-05-06T08:50:00.000-07:00

Makaye and Brandon

The Kiss

Makaye's girls friends, Carlie was supposed to be there but she had school. She came for the dinner

Barb, Annette, Karen (Makeye's mom) Melany and Breta

Makaye got married April 20. She was a good friend of Carlie's. She grow up with Carlie and went to the same school as Carlie, Karen and I have been good friends for a long time. We wish Makaye the best!

St. Martin tree top adventure.

2011-05-06T07:58:00.000-07:00

Scott

Barb

Jason

Jessie

Geoff

Stacy

Carlie

Rylie

This thrilling excursion suspend you about St Martin's private forest reserve where you'll soar between majestic 200 year old mango and mahogany trees. the course, consist of sequence of zip-lines, rope swings an bridges suspended from platforms mounted in the trees of the forest will leave you in a state of euphoria!

The adventure was 3 hours45 mins. It was a lot of fun. Not as thrilling as I had hoped. But for Carlie who has a fear of heights it was a trill.

Our ship the Royal Caribbean Freedom of the Sea

2011-05-04T10:27:00.000-07:00

Beautiful ship

The Royal Promenade, it was a small mall on the ship!

Hot tubing

The Library

Arcadia Theater. Great shows on the ship. I love the first nigh show Once Upon A Time. Amazing!!

Yummy food.

The ship was amazing! The food, the flow rider, the rock climbing wall, the Dream Works "Move It! Move It" Parade. Karaoke, Disco Dancing, Ice show, midnight movies,

3 D movies, big shows ever night, the food, the food, and the food. It was a great family vacation. We are already talking about the next one!

Megens Bay at St. Thomas

2011-05-03T12:18:00.000-07:00

Geoff bought a football and we play with it in the water.

Bathing beauties.

Norah loved the sand.

hOne of those beautiful beaches is Magens Bay Beach on the island of St. Thomas. This beach is a half mile in total length and is protected from the strong Caribbean currents by two peninsulas; therefore, making this beach a wonderful spot to swim due to its amazingly quiet water. Not only does it have quiet water, but it also boasts of some of the purest sand in the Virgin Islands

The Historic Tower and Manor Houses of Black beard's.

2011-05-02T20:50:00.000-07:00

Carlie and Rylie

My family. So cute!

Scott and Barb

Beautiful Norah

Stacy, Carlie and Rylie waiting in the HOT sun.

Skytsborgtarn, meaning sky tower, was built in 1679 to protect fort Christian against invaders by land from the North and as a vantage point to spot enemy ships approaching the harbor from the south. Though it's unlikely that Blackbeard himself used the tower, the Danish authorities kept a sharp lookout for Edward Teach and his brethren of pirates who favored the duty-free port of St. Thomas to convert their booty in to gold. It was interesting but we were ready to go to the beach. Pictures to come.

Dinning on the ship.

2011-05-02T09:29:00.000-07:00

Jessie and Jason

Geoff and Stacy

Rylie, Norah and Carlie. Looks like Norah is winking.

Barb and Scott

With our waiters. They were so great!

Norah had everyone wrapped around her finger.

The food on the ship was great. We had a wonderful time eating dinner together every night. Cruising is a lot of fun. Having all your food prepared for you. No cooking!!

We spent a lot of time at the Flow Rider on the cruise ship.

2011-04-27T10:11:00.000-07:00

I really liked the boogie board.

Scott was really good. And he really enjoyed it.

Geoff was a pro.

Jason was a pro.

Stacy was really good at it.

Rylie loved it.

Don't know why this is on twice. Sorry

Jessie only went a few times.

Carlie was really good.

We had a great time on the Flow Rider. We took lessons while on the ship. Everyone did really good except me. Thats OK I loved watching them having a good time.

For spring break our family went on a Cruise. Everyone even Norah.

2011-04-25T15:13:00.000-07:00

Jessie and Jason walking on the beach.

Carlie, Rylie, Jessie and Jason.

Stacy and Geoff.

Sleeping Norah.

Beautiful Norah.

Sleeping Geoff and Stacy

These are pictures from CocoCay, Bahamas. It was a beautiful Island. It was our first stop We enjoyed the beautiful sunshine and playing in the water. Norah was fun to have, she did great. Everyone was so willing to help out with her. More pictures to come!!

Carlie got asked to Prom!

2011-04-25T14:48:00.000-07:00

Carlie got asked to OHS Prom weeks ago. She is excited. Her date is Ryan Bascom.

Carlie's and My Birthday celebration.

2011-04-22T14:49:00.000-07:00

We always have friends over for crepes in the morning.

We went to Brick Oven for dinner. So yummy we haven't been there for ever!

Granny gave Carlie and I this cute light up aprons.

Geoff playing with Norah

We had a great birthday. It's always fun to share my birthday with Carlie. She is an amazing person. 18 is a great age. But I am glad it's not me. 50 something is just fine with me.