Barben's

4th of July

2010-08-04T09:23:00.000-07:00

We spend part of our 4th vacation at Lake Powell camping with Brad's sister Wendy and her kids and Gordon and Penny. We did the same thing last year so maybe it will be an annual thing. We sure have a great time...camping, boating, hiking west canyon was awesome, wake boarding, skiing, cliff jumping, etc.

Jaysa had Grandma Penny's lipstick on all the time, her favorite color is purple...thanks for sharing!

The second half of our 4th of July vacation was spent in Brian Head. We went from one extreme to the next. I had on my ski coat, gloves, and hat and I was still cold, but the fireworks were awesome!

Our awesome friends the Bishop's joined us late on the 4th. We finished off the vacation with more fun!!!

Starting Over

2010-07-06T12:02:00.000-07:00

I am giving blogging another shot! Bear with me. Just practicing adding pictures again. These were taken by one of my favorite people ever...Nat Ipson.

Thank you so much Heather for getting me going again! You are the best!!!

Updates...Yes, we are all alive and well!!!

2008-12-16T19:16:00.000-08:00

It seems I've been out of comission for awhile. Let's just say I WAY over commited myself to Christmas presents this year. Never a good idea to make everyone's gift in the same year. Brad has already made me take the oath to no homemade gifts next year, we'll see! On top of that, my computer has been giving me major fits. I finally reached my whits end one day and took it in to be fixed...several days and hundreds later(not quite that much, feels like it though), most is well again. My printer isn't hooked up to it yet so that's a huge pain (for Shauna at least, she's been printing off my stuff for me, thankfully)! AND...my camera is shot! I guess I know what I'm getting for Christmas, the freezer can wait, I NEED a new camera. A pre-Christmas present sounds about right. Almost 90% of my pics are blurry and now my batteries are falling out the bottom. Any suggestions on a good camera and quick?!

So, I know it's a lot all at once, but here I go! I couldn't bear to leave anything out, this has sort of become my journal ya know! I figure, everyone else just looks at what they want anyway. Hope all is well for you all!!!

Our fam Hawaiin Style! (Hey, thanks to everyone that helped out with my kiddos while I was gone all day, appreciate ya!)

Christmas in the Islands!

Our ward Christmas party...Hawaiin style!!! I am a true fan of Hawaiin food, especially Kalua Pork...YUM! The decor turned out great, the food was delicious, the entertainment amazing (I'm pretty sure everyone in the room was glued to the stage. I am especially a fan of the New Zealand Hucka), and the company made the party! It was so fun having everyone dress up (my camera is going kaput, so most of my pics turned out blurry, darn it!). It's a good thing we live in St. George, not too many places could pull off the Hawaiin dress in December!

We really have had an awesome committee and I am going to miss working with them!

Thanksgiving '08 @ the Bang's
(Random shots throughout the day)

So much to be grateful for...a loving wonder family, amazing kids, remarkable friends, a fabulous neighborhood, work for Brad, our health, our beloved Saviour and Father in Heaven, and a truly happy life! The list could go on and on...we are so blessed and we feel those blessings in our lives daily! We had so much fun on Thanksgiving stuffing our faces with yummy food surrounded by such wonderful company! Thanks for housing the party Bang's!

Thanksgiving with Rylee's Class

We helped with Rylee's Kindergarten Thanksgiving dinner. It was quite the spread of food, I'll admit, I was wishing I had made me a plate. Isn't she the cutest pilgrim ever! They ate their food and then played a bunch of fun games and made some crafts. We just love Rylee's teacher, Miss Catlett, she is incredible!

White Trash Birthday Bash

I had to add this in because it is something I never want to forget, way too funny! Plus, these are some pretty sweet blackmail photos! Things I want to remember: dumpster diving for surprises like twinkies, body powder, beef jerky/cheese sticks, pregnancy tests, etc. ; toilet lid toss over pipe; darts hung on a ladder outside; spam carving; karaoke; all generic snack foods and drinks; toilet paper, spray paint, red carpet(paper), motorcycle in entry, diapers and cans by front door, tin foil in windows, flowers in big gulp cup, trinkets and fingurines on shelves, hilarious white trash invites (parts written in crayon and ripped) and of course pitures of the birthday boy hung around sporting some seriously studly apparel...Thanks for the memories!

HALLOWEEN 'O8

How about a little HALLOWEEN fun! Rylee was a darling doll, Jaysa our sweet little ladybug, and Steele our Buff Batman! Brad and I got in on the action for the YM/YW Halloween Carnival and I dresse up again to help with Rylee's class party. Good times and lots of candy (just what every parent wants around the house)!

I think that about sums it up! :)

High of 85

2008-10-27T10:46:00.000-07:00

Some of my Saturday endeavors included:
Attending the Stake's Preparedness Day.
Thought this was a great idea for storing food storage. It fits under a bed and for rotation just take from one side and fill from the other. Just made from ply-wood.
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George Washington Academy's Halloween Carnival.
My little Rylee at her school's performance for the Halloween Carnival on Sat. She did such a great job!
Here she is with all the kindergartner's.
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A trip to Sand Hollow
Oh how I love Sunny St. George! There are not too many places where you can go to the Lake on Oct. 25th. Yep, this past Saturday we headed to Sand Hollow. It was a beautiful afternoon/evening and perfect water for the wakeboarders.

Rylee testing her skills with the camera...

Now it's Steele's turn...he took the two on the bottom.

I guess no one else made this photo shoot. The whole reason we went to the lake was because Brad's brother Jeff and his girlfriend, Marilee, were down for the weekend. They were all busy wakeboarding! Which I might add, they all did awesome. Kudo's to Marilee, up her first try for a while and went forever. What a great night!

She's Here!

2008-10-24T21:15:00.000-07:00

Sadie finally made it around 8:00pm ( I think just before, not sure on the exact time). She weighs 7lbs. 7oz. and is 19 3/4 in. long. Jen was in it for the long haul that's for sure, she's doing great and so is the babe. I hesitate to even show these pictures because my camera is kind of blurry and they just don't do her justice. She still has the abx goop in her eyes and she hasn't been bathed yet, she is brand new! What a little angel!

The happy family! She has alot of short dark hair and look at her darling dark eyebrows. Beautiful red lips. Can't wait to see her tomorrow, hopefully Ky will let me hold her (maybe I'll ask Jen instead!)

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While I was visiting our new little neice at the hospital, Brad got our kiddos ready and took them over to the Halloween Block Party! Crazy how miracles are occuring on one side of town and on the other people are dancing and partying! Here's my adorable little Bee!

Steele "Batman" with his little friends. Emma is spiderman and Pierce is a Harlem Globetrotter. I thought it was so cute, Emma came up and tugged on my shirt, "Where's Steele?" They are all becoming great little friends because of having preschool together. I didn't get a pic. of my Rylee girl, she was off playing somewhere-having way too much fun I'm sure!

Lunch Duty!

2008-10-23T09:47:00.000-07:00

So, at George Washington, we are asked to help with lunch duty every couple of months or so. Last time I helped in the actual lunch room, that was fun because it was the first week of school. This time I wanted to be outside for recess for three reasons. 1) The weather is so nice, 2) Get to play with the kids, and 3) My own kids can come and play as well.

For the first recess I got to play catch with Josh almost the entire time (I was watching the other kids too!). I bet he played great in his game...all warmed up and all. He has a good arm!

The next recess was Rylee's, yeah! It is so fun to be involved and see my darling girl interact with her friends at school. Steele and Jaysa had great fun as well. Although you wouldn't know it from the face Jaysa's pulling in the picture. She threw a huge fit when we were leaving.

On another note: Jaysa has found her tongue. I think it is the cutest thing and I don't want to forget it!

This is how she looks most of the time now. My mom said my sister Miki went around with her tongue out like this for about 2 years! I think it's so cute I just want to squeeze her!!!

Aaaawwwhhh...MOM!

2008-10-17T16:17:00.000-07:00

This morning me and the kids all slept in, yahoo! Rylee and Steele came rolling into my bed aound 8ish and we all cuddled for awhile. Steele slipped out of bed and I didn't think much of it or of the door shutting! Still a bit dozy, it took me a minute to register what was happening...

Rylee and I jumped out of bed. I ran to the garage to find it open. I'm yelling, "Steele, Steele, come in bud!" Not fit to go outside, I move to the front door and this is what I find...

"Aaaawwwhhh...Mom, I just want to play football!"

My darling little 3-yr. old got himself dressed and went outside to play football at around 8:30 in the morning!

How do you resist a face like this? Brad bought Steele this football a few days ago and he's been sleeping with it or near it ever since! We sure love you Steeley Man!!!

DHHS....Go Thunder!!!

2008-10-17T14:48:00.000-07:00

Rylee and a bunch of girls from the neighborhood participated in the Desert Hills Thunder Cheer Clinic. They practiced for a week and then performed at the game, so darling! These are some of thee cutest girls ever! I love our neighborhood. We are surrounded by such great people, which in turn, blesses our kids with great friends! Grandma Penny and Papa were there to show their support. Our girls love their grandparents. (Grandma and Grandpa Glauser were there too! My bad, I didn't get a picture. We get to sit with them at all the games and we love it!) :)
Yeah! Miki came to town a weekend or two ago and we got to hang around with her. The kids love their Aunt Miki!

The girls at actual practice. Aren't they darling?!

Aunt Lexi is the greatest! One of the best parts of the cheer clinic was being able to work with Aunt Lexi. We love watching you cheer Lex!
Oops! A bit blurry. I really need to figure out how to upload video, it can't be that hard right?
"Thank Heaven for little girls."

-Maurice Chevalier, GiGi

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F.H.E. in Veyo

Wow! Thanks Uncle Lonnie and Aunt Dorothy for letting us come and reap the benefits of your labors! We had a great time picking apples, peaches, and raspberries! After being at their house I can see why some people love a lot of land and space. It was so peaceful, so much yard, so many fruit trees, a beautiful garden, a fun, new sitting area and deck, and of course, Horses! We had a ball running from tree to tree picking the fruit.

I am finding out that their is more than one reason that the prophets have asked us to be prepared. It is such a good feeling to be able to provide for yourself and others. Just from having our own "little" garden I have learned so much. Our kids love to watch the growing process, they love being able to help plant, prune, and pick. It is so rewarding and it is fun to share. Such good lessons for the kiddos and such great reminders for us adults!

Four Wheeling in Marysvale!

2008-10-01T13:38:00.000-07:00

For Gordon's (Brad's dad) birthday we decided to celebrate in Marysvale, Utah (a hub for UTA's). Aren't my in-laws cute? They are the best people, we consider ourselves very blessed to have them in our lives. This trip was the ultimate (6 hour) 4-wheeling experience. We all had a blast!

The terrain was absolutely outstanding and I don't ususally get too excited about landscapes! Our little family fits perfectly in our side-by-side, it is so fun. (By OUR, I mean my dad's). Rylee graced us with her presence for a little while and then hopped on with Papa, Lisa (Friend of Hol and Ryan and now us), and then with Bailey!

The weather was beautiful for the most part. About 4-5 hours in, it started to rain and then it started to rain hard! Brad gave up his jacket to Jaysa and I took over driving because driving with your knee through what the sign called Rough, Narrow Trail was a little too scary for me! Brad was so cold without his jacket he put his hands in his shirt. We enjoyed lunch at one of the Piute Trail Reservoirs and even got our pictures taken for a UTA magazine. On our way out of the canyons Papa's 4-wheeler ran out of gas, he was pushed, coasted, and towed. A lot of fun was packed into those 6 hours, I'd do it again any day.

Look at these Darling kiddos! The picture of Steele is classic...if you have a boy, you probably understand!!! If only the rest of us had it that easy out in the woods.

We sure had a great time. Thanks Penny for arranging it all!

FIVE LITTLE BOYS!

2008-10-01T12:44:00.000-07:00

Play group at our house was a success! What fun, every week Steele gets together with 5 other little boys from the neighborhood for lunch and a play date! Steele was so excited to have it at our house last week. We bought stuff for cupcakes and Steele carried it around all day! All the boys are darling and I think they all had a great time!

Steele was pretty stoked for lunch too, consisting of: Mac & Cheese, Hot dogs, Pringles, Pop, and Pear slices for good measure! Let's just say there were No complaints!!!

Time Out For Women!

2008-09-22T13:07:00.001-07:00

Talk about a great time with the girls! Fifteen of us gals from the neighborhood took a little trip down to Vegas for the Time Out For Women conference. No shopping (Can you believe it), but plenty of eating, uplifting music, inspiring speakers, and laughter!!!

All fifteen of us at The Cheesecake Factory prior to coming home-ummm, ummm good!
We even got to have a little birthday celebration for Julie and Mary...good timing girls!

Eleven of us went down Friday afternoon so that we could attend the Friday evening session as well as the Saturday session. We heard a lot fom Hillary Weeks (both through song and the spoken word) and another band (can't remember their names, oops!), but they did Joseph-A Tribute to Nashville. Not what I was expecting, but still enjoyable! Who couldn't have a great time with such Wonderful company!?
My cousin Kandace came with our group and we ran into some long-time friends. Krystal and Heather (in the middle) are great friends from high school. It was so good to see them and chat for a few minutes. I was also able to visit with their mom, Karen Esplin, who has been undergoing tx for cancer. She looked great and was so positive, what a special treat to see them all!
Friday night, we decided to top things off with a trip to P.F. Changs around midnight! The lettuce wraps were awesome and the Great Wall of China (huge, moist, layered chocolate cake with raspberry sauce) was delightful!
Here's some of the gals enjoying the speakers! Ha/Ha :) It was a bit of a late night...can you tell!?
I had a FABULOUS time...the company was second to none! Thanks gals...let's do this again soon! We missed all those that couldn't make the trip from the neighborhood-the more the marrier (s/p?)-come go next time, it'll be in St. George next year!!!

One of my favorite speakers of the trip was Amanda Dickson, she was a little wacky, but had some very valid comments! One thing in particular that she said was, "Your best is good enough!" Something that I think every women needs to be reminded of from time to time!

Birthday Fun!

2008-09-11T21:44:00.000-07:00

I just wanted to say THANKS to all my friends for the fun lunch they put together for me on my b-day! I consider myself a lucky gal to be blessed with such great girl friends! I appreciate you ladies, thanks for a great time...

I can't thank my friends (in the picture) without thanking my family and many other Friends (many of whom are not pictured) who took time to make my birthday special. You all know who you are and I am still overcome by all the kind wishes expressed. So....THANKS!!!

You all make me want to be a better person, seriously!

Sucker Anyone?

2008-09-07T10:50:00.000-07:00

Jaysa couldn't decide what flavor of sucker she wanted! Lucky for her, Grandpa Glauser was willing to share. We have all kinds of fun at the DHHS football games. We're all glad it is football season again!

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This is what we did on Sunday before church. Steele set this up..."Mom, come and see our Jumping Jacks!" Kids are easily entertained aren't they. No one even got hurt, amazing!

Labor Day Weekend @ Brian Head

2008-09-05T09:03:00.000-07:00

We decided to spend the weekend @ Brian Head at the condo. Some of the Barben clan came along for the fun...we all had a great time! Steele and his cousins Vince and Archie 4-wheeling with Dad. They don't look very excited do they?!

The temperature was a bit nippy-60 degrees with wind. We're definitely not used to that, but it didn't stop us from having a blast!
We had so much fun playing cards, what a relaxing vacation. Me, Tammy, Penny, Maggie Glendenning, Gretchen Glendenning, Lexi, and my mom all played a card game called golf-lots of fun! I love learning new games! Here, Rylee is teaching Brad how to play Slap Jack, everytime we whipped our cards out she did the same. It was so cute to hear her squil with delight when she won a round!
Our little fam went to church up in Brian Head prior to everyone else coming up, it was so fun! I don't think they were expecting the huge turnout, but we all crammed into Town Hall. It looked like a mini St. George reunion, it was sure fun visiting with friends I hadn't seen since High School!

A lot of time was spend in the hall kicking the football. Steele ate this up! My dad thinks that we should train him young, it's a perfect position for him to play in the NFL-explaining that they make a lot of money and rarely get hurt! Sounds like a plan to me :) !
Jaysa was loving the little step to sit and play on!
Steele and Vincey were cracking me up. Look at these two darling boys...they had so much fun together. Vince was telling me that him and Steele just like to sit and CHAT! He's too smart for his britches.
Isn't it fun to just hang out and chill!? My mother-in-law, Penny, and sister-in-law, Tammy, relaxing in the condo. We had a ball that night after the kiddos went to bed playing the celebrity name game, Curses, and of course cards! There is something about just being able to get away to the mountains and enjoying the comfort of the cozy condo that just makes the trip purely enjoyable!!
I feel so blessed to have had my in-laws , sister-in-law, kids cousins, my own parents and sister there with us at the condo. Oh, it was so dang fun! We missed all those who couldn't make it!

Happy 1st Birthday Jaysa!

2008-08-27T22:35:00.000-07:00

It has been a year since our darling Jaysa was born, hard to believe how much she's changed when the memories of her birth are still so vivid. Our precious little Jaysa Grace Barben at one day old! She has been our sweet little angel. Steele calls her, "Jacey Gracey!" Rylee calls her "Conan," (say it while bitting your teeth together) don't know where that came from. Brad calls her, "Jay jay!" I call her, "My little Jaysa girl!" Lots of nicknames and lots of love!

So she looks a bit hesitant in this picture, which is crazy because she had been begging for her cake all afternoon! She does this little sign language bit with her hand when she gets excited. All the attention must have got the best of her. Isn't she just the cutest little one year old ever!?

The other kids got in on the action to show her how it's done. I really thought she'd go nuts and make a huge mess, but she was pretty soft about it. A lot of the fam was here to help us celebrate, thanks!

Jaysa girl we just love you to bits! At one you are:
*such a happy girl with a beautiful smile
*walking everywhere (sometimes even running)
*giving great open mouth kisses
*making lots of funny faces
*climbing the hearth and leading the music and singing with Rylee and Steele
*going up and down the stairs
*eating anything and everything withOUT teeth, not a one!
*signing "more" and "thank you"
*blowing kisses, even with the sound effects
*loving fruit and frosted mini wheats and popcicles
*saying "hi" and "ma ma" (surprising us with other words on occassion)
*wrestling with Dad, Rylee, and Steele (loving it!)
*throwing tantrums (arching your back, tossing your head back, and crying)
*loving the swings and the trampoline (especially when dad jumps with you)
*still loving to be held (especially by mom or dad)
*already loving books
*getting into anything that opens (loving the tupperware cabinet)
*LOVED by you big sister and big brother
*LOVED and cherished by your mom and Dad (you melt our hearts!)

The cutest little one-year old ever and her lucky mom!

Studly Steele Starts Preschool!

2008-08-22T09:31:00.000-07:00

"Look mom, I got a treat!"

Steele and his little buddies, Talmage and Peirce!

Ms. Megan is Steele's new preschool teacher! He had a great first day. He came into the bathroom while I was getting ready that morning and said, "Look mom, check it out, I'm all ready to go-I even have my pac-pac on!" I am so glad he got into this preschool with all his little buddies, they're going to have a great time!

Cheerleader Lexi!

2008-08-19T13:30:00.000-07:00

DHHS-RA-RA-RA!!! GOOOOO LEXI!

We will now be attending the new Desert Hills High School Football games! My youngest sister Lexi is a cheerleader over there. We went to the scrimage last Friday and Steele has been hounding me all week to go again-no concept of time! He says to me, "Mom, I want to go to the football game, let's go see CHEERLEADER LEXI!" (Do you like the new nickname Lex?)

Their first game is against Uintah this coming Friday @ 7

Rylee loves her Aunt Lexi, we know why she'll enjoy the games!

Already learning the ropes-private lessons with Dad!

Playin' at the Lake!

2008-08-19T13:11:00.000-07:00

Steele's first time wakeboarding with Dad, he loved it!

Rylee and our cute little neighbor and friend, Callie, got in on the action too!

This time the water wasn't so great, so we pulled out the tube! This was Steele's first time going on the tube without me or Brad, he is getting sooo BRAVE! Rylee and Bri had a blast, they'd jump in the water anytime the boat stopped. Aren't they the cutest little cousins?!

Rylee and Bri giggled their little heads off while watching Aunt Lexi and her friend Laura tube. Lex and Laura gave them quite a show too! The bottom of the tube was almost flat so they went flying off a couple times. Bri especially thought that was hilarious!

*Don't ya just want to pinch those cute little bums!!!

Keesha starts her mission!!!

2008-08-14T12:29:00.000-07:00

My beautiful sister Keesha, 23, is now Sister Glauser at the MTC. She is learning Ukrainian, preparing to serve in the Ukraine, Kiev mission. A lot has happened these past few days. We had Keesha's farewell dinner at my parent's Saturday night, it was so fun being with family and friends. Keesh had a ton of support!

For family night on Monday we headed to Quail Lake around 6pm. What a gorgeous night to be on the lake. The water was awesome. We each took our turn wakeboarding, we didn't even geth the tube out, if you can believe that! We had so much fun being together and spending some more precious time with Keesh. The whole family was there including a long time family friend, Cory Neilson. My cute sister-in-law, Jen, is expecting in Oct.

Tuesday, we decided to stick around home. We swam at Mom and Dad's and had a spectacular steak dinner. Kudo's to Dad, your steaks are the bomb! Thanks Mom for everything else, you always know how to put together a great meal! At 8pm Keesha was set apart as a missionary by their Stake President, Pres. Richards (an incredible man). She was given such an amazing blessing, we all shed a few tears. A while later she gave my kids hair cuts. What are we going to do without her!? Steele got a buzz, I was definately torn by the decision, but decided it needed to happen soon, so why not now when Keesh could do it. Steele was brave, it's been awhile since having one. By his reaction, I think he likes it, I sure do! I'd forgotten how cute he looks with short hair. All the hair on the floor is his. We even got Jaysa in on the action, a little off the back to even things out a bit! When we got home Rylee said, "Oh, Steele...you look sooo cute, like a Prince, I just want to kiss you!"

I was fortunate enough to accompany my parents and sisters to take Keesh to the MTC yesterday. Thanks go out to Brad, Vanessa, Penny, and Shauna for helping me work out things here at home so I could go!

We had such a great day! We had just enough time to grab a bite to eat at Zupas (very delicious), before taking Keesha to the MTC. It all happened so fast. I was crying over the commercials they were showing as the families were making their way into the chapel. I regained composure a little bit during the talks-trying not to think about what was happening. Before you knew it, we were giving our final farewells as she walked through the MISSIONARIES THIS WAY door! I am going to miss her so much (I'm crying again as I type this)! I couldn't ask for better sisters, I am so blessed. I love each of them so much, including my sister-in-law, Jen!

Isn't Keesha the most beautiful Sister Missionary you've ever seen? She has so much to give and so many to teach and touch with her amazing testimony. I know she is being watched over by our Heavenly Father, what more can you ask for!?

After all that, we took Miki to her new place. She's living in Orem with 5 other girls this fall. How fun! At least I can call Miki when I want to talk. I am going to miss her too though. It has been so fun having her around all summer. Thanks for helping me out so much Miki, Love you! Have a blast and keep in touch.

Awwh! My youngest sister Lexi is on her own now, an only child again! I am so glad you're still here Lex. What would we do without you. We can't wait to see you cheer at the new school, we are totally loooking forward to it! Love you :)!

First day of Kindergarten!

2008-08-11T09:19:00.000-07:00

Rylee is attending George Washington Academy this year for kindergarten (all day). She wanted to wake up Steele this morning, "Steele....wake up, your going to go with Mom to take me to school!" She has been so cute about starting school.

Rylee with her teacher, Ms. Catlett. I've heard great things about her so I am so excited for Rylee. When we got home from California there was a post card to Rylee from her. Now if that isn't a sign of a great teacher, I was impressed and Rylee was thrilled!

I'm still in a bit of shock...I can't believe my little girl just started Kindergarten. Isn't she just darling in her uniform?! It's been hard to be too sad about this new stage of life for me when Rylee is sooo excited. On the way home from Grandma Penny's last night I was giving Rylee some more preping and when I finished she sang from the back seat, " Tell me more, tell me more, tell me more!" Brad and I got a little chuckle out of that.

Brad and I stealing some shots with our little kindergartner! I am going to miss her all day!!!

My pictures are out of order if you haven't figured it out already. I still need to figure out this editing stuff.

A Tender Moment

2008-08-09T07:52:00.000-07:00

My Little Steele said to me yesterday, "Mom, you're my best friend," with a big huge wrapped around my leg! I am so blessed. I love my three little kiddos sooo much. It's these moments that sure make it all worth it!

Big Rock in Santa Clara

2008-08-07T21:10:00.000-07:00

Grandma Penny took us on a fun excursion to Big Rock in Santa Clara. It is about 1/2 mile hike from the parking area on a dirt road (A jogging stroller would get there just fine) to this fun spot (part of the Virgin River). Now doesn't that look like a kids play ground to you! The kids had a ball slidding down the mini water fall (it's only about 3 ft. deep, Steele was fine without a floatation device), they caught poly wogs, and searched for crawdads (found one). All in all it was a great time and FREE! Next time we go I'll put Jaysa and me in a swimsuit too. It was nice having my crocs on too, there are a few rocks, but the kids didn't complain.

Some of our favorites

2008-08-05T13:41:00.000-07:00

Rubys Diner
Located at the end of the pier is one of our favorite treats-good burgers and yummy shakes! Rubys hold mixed emotions for me, I'm excited for the food and atmosphere, but it also marks the end of the trip-Friday night dinner. Saturday we pack up and leave...it's hard to believe another year's behind us!

Kaelani's...Hawaiin food at it's finest. We don't make this trip without stopping in here to fill our tummy's!

Colima's...Mexican food done right! Look at that breakfast burrito, two of them were more than enough for our family, even with Brad!

More Pictures of Cali

2008-08-05T13:32:00.000-07:00

At the beach!

More beach, swimming in the condo pools, and family dinner out on the patio.

Sea World again... We got a bounce back pass to Sea World and went once with just Bret and Micheline's family when we first got to town and then again when Grandma and Papa and the Goff's arrived (Wendy and her kiddos also waited until the second round to join the party). These flamingos were a riot! They loved Saige's hair and then we all had to get in on the action. Quite the freindly little birds!

The Gang!

Oceanside, California (WARNING: Many more pictures to follow!)

2008-08-05T13:14:00.000-07:00

Going to Oceanside each year is a Barben family tradition and sooo much fun!!! It is truly a relaxing vacation consisting of 6 basic fundamentals: Eating, sleeping, the beach, swimming in the pool, shopping, and nightly visits to the Pier! Oh, and the company is second to none! We had a ball with our cousins, and missed the ones who couldn't make it!

We have a favorite little outlet store not far from where we stay and visit it often (some people, daily). That's were we got the matching swimsuits for the girlly girls. What cute cousins! Brad and Steele and Bret and Jaxson had fun together in the ocean. We also frequent the little playground past the pier, Our morning walks usually ending there!

Playing and relaxing at the beach. When I would lay out Jaysa took that as prime climbing time! I didn't mind...at least I knew she wasn't eating sand at that moment!

More of the beach! Steele loved hangin' with his dad. He'd come up to Brad and say," Hey dad, whanna go sit in the mud with me?" They'd go sit where the waves were shallow and dig for a little while before getting in the Big ones, it kind of became a ritual of sorts!

SeaWorld in San Diego

2008-08-04T14:21:00.000-07:00

We had a blast at Sea World. I took Steele and Jaysa to the Seasame Street Play area while Brad took Rylee to Atlantis, she loved it! We had a great time in the kiddie area, Steele was in heaven. And look at all the fun Characters we got to see!

Rylee and Lindsey (cousin) staring intently at the Sea Lion show. We went to Sea World the first day with Bret and Micheline's family (Brad's oldest brother) and the kids (they have 8) loved the shows.

Shamu was a hit like always! Everytime I am amazed at these animals.

Jaysa posing with Aunt Wendy's hat on the beach. Jaysa was definately the star of the show this trip. She was the only baby there, very unusual for the Barben clan, and was dotted (sp?) over the entire time! What a darling!!!

Wendy's Horses!

2008-07-21T08:28:00.000-07:00

So, since we were up in Syracuse we thought we'd head a little further north to Ogden to see the horses Wendy (Brad's oldest sister) painted for the Pioneer Days celebration. Her's were amazing, she is sooo talented!

Rylee is standing in front of "Healthy as a Horse," Sponsored by Ogden Regional Medical Center. The head a neck is an arch and a hiker, next is a runner (Sharlie's abs were her model), a snow boarder, a biker, and then some cliff hikers on the tail. Notice each foot is a different shoe (my favorite part, so clever), one is a hightop basketball sneaker, one is a black soccer cleet with a long sock, a ballet slipper, and a tap shoe.

On this side you can see from head to tail a skiier, the hoyt team (the father that does triathalon's with his handicapped son, so incredible), skate boarder, kickboxer, and a gal stretching on the tail.

This other horse she did was sponsored by George Eccles Dinosaur Park. These took her over 60 hours plus. And after doing her own she helped her student with his. His was pretty cool, I don't have a picture though.

Steele wanted a quick ride! Wendy, you are fabulous artist! We are so glad we went and checked this out. The horses line 25th Street in Ogden, Ut. There are 24 of them (I think!).

Lagoon

2008-07-21T07:46:00.000-07:00

The kids had a ball. Lagoon A Beach was pretty busy, but the kiddie rides were basically walk on. Us adults even got in a few of the roller coasters including the new Wicked! It was AWESOME!!! We played hard the whole day, we left at closing!

Lagoon

2008-07-21T07:41:00.000-07:00

Our spontaneous trip to Lagoon was a success! We had a great time. Aunt Keesha came to play and we ran into Audrey Marchant, she even got to come and play with us for awhile. It is a little hot at this point, we're waiting to ride the train!

My beautiful little Rylee on the Ferris Wheel...she couldn't wait to ride it, it was one of her favorites!

Our goofy dad on the Ferris Wheel!

Still on the Ferris Wheel. Can you believe my gorgeous sister, Keesha, is going on a mission to the Ukrane on Aug. 13th. We will miss her so much. It was so much fun spending the day with her.

Brad turns 31! July 13th

2008-07-15T19:38:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday Dad! We love you so much.

Brad has to be the best husband and daddy ever! He works so hard and then comes home and plays with us. He is so loving, patient, giving, fun, honest, and sincere! Have a great week, we love you!

Happy Birthday Steele - July 8th!!!

2008-07-15T19:32:00.000-07:00

Steele is 3 years old!

This kid is a sports maniac, so what could be any more fitting than a sports cake! He loved it and that's all that matters!

We sang Happy Birthday prior to opening presents, then when he went to open the second present he said, "Sing Happy Birthday again!" I thought that was so cute. Steele was stoked about his presents and so was Rylee.

Steele was a pro at blowing out the candles, he's had lots of practice. He and Rylee pretend to do it all the time.

Isn't he the cutest 3-year old ever!!! I just die over his blonde curls. We just keep letting his hair grow because we can't bear to cut them off. Steele is such a good brother. He plays so well with Rylee (most of the time), he is sweet with Jaysa, and he is very giving with hugs and kisses. Steele and Brad usually only fight over one thing- who loves who most! He loves to play any sport, hike, see his aunts, uncles, cousins, and grandparents, and play with his good buddy, Peirce. His favorite uncle is "Mikey," just ask him (no brainwashing there, I'm sure!). He's been totally potty trained for months and he made it so easy on us, it was a breeze! He loves life and is such a happy little man. We love you sooo much Steele!

Thanks Bri!

2008-07-15T19:12:00.000-07:00

How do you like my nails and Hanna Montana wiglet? Thanks for the present! I miss you! Love you, Rylee

Baltimore, Maryland - July 7th!

2008-07-15T19:05:00.000-07:00

Our last hurrah for the trip was to do Ride the Ducks tour in Baltimore prior to flying out. These amphibious vehicles were made during WW11. They were actually put together in a factory by Women! Anyway, they are so cool because they go on land and water. We were able to see a lot of Baltimore and get some interesting history in a relatively short amount of time. All it did was make us wish we had more time to spend their, it was a very Beautiful place.

Here's the whole touring clan. Check out our snazzy duck quackers! We used these to sing along to several silly songs and to quack "Hi!" to people on the street. As you can imagine, our kids loved them. Vanessa and Tam were such troopers the whole week to take us all over without their hubbies! We sure do love em!

In this picture we are out on the Chesapeak Bay. The whole harbor area is gorgeous! There were hanging flower baskets everywhere and all kinds of fun shops and eating places.

These are our sad duck faces as we said good-bye to our cousins at the Baltimore Washington International Airport. What a fun, eventful trip we had. We feel so lucky to have be able to go visit our family in Pennsylvania! Thanks guys for all the FUN!!!

New York-July 6th!!!

2008-07-15T18:46:00.000-07:00

Times Square! This is what you expect when coming to New York-busy people, tall buildings, lots of lights, and lots of action!

I just thought this was such a darling picture of Jaysa. We were hanging out getting pictures of the Statue of Liberty we I snapped this on of her, cute huh?!

Ground Zero was so amazing. Something I totally wanted to see. When I was in college I went to New York and went to the top of the Twin Towers, a little different scene these days. Being there brings back a lot of emotion that was felt the day I found out, the devastation is overwhelming! While there some fire trucks were just coming back to their dept. building directly across the street. One of the firefighters invited us to come in and take pictures, he was so nice. What a once in a life time deal. Rylee is seen with a tribute to the firefighters that were lost to this dept. during the 9-11 trauma.

If you look close through the haze you might spot the figure of the Statue of Liberty in the background. This wasn't just a pretty place to pose, she's out there! The next family shot was by a lake in Central Park, that place is huge, 774 square miles. Needless to say the kids were hot and tired, thus the popcicles. Does the pond behind Rylee look familiar? It should if you've seen the movie Stuart Little. We also spent some time in Toys R Us, the kids and Brad rode a 3-story ferris wheel inside the store. I was out of memory on my camera at that point so my sister-in-law, Tammy, took some pictures for me there and at Dylan's Candy Bar, but I can't get my e-mail to open. I get wireless internet Thursday, hopefully that will solve my problem. New York was awesome, the kids had a great time and so did we. Getting on and off the subway with strollers was tricky at times, but we made it!

A Great End to a Funfilled Day-July 5th!

2008-07-12T17:24:00.000-07:00

After leaving the Rocky steps we headed out for some fresh seafood. The fam (Mike/Vanessa and Tam/Jeriah) had eaten here previously and loved it. It was just this cute little place where you pick what you want from the coolers and they cook it up for you right there...doesn't get much better than this! Brad was in CRAB HEAVEN! Across the street was a little pizza joint, that's what me and the kids had-very good! I tried a couple bites of crab (all Brad was willing to give up), it was yummy. After the seafood as we were heading back to the cars Brad spotted Elote (corn on the cob rubbed with mayo, parmesan, and sprinkled with chile). This was something he ate alot on the mish. It was so good, a little hot with the chile though!

ROCKY!!!

2008-07-12T17:09:00.000-07:00

We had to stop and get our picture with the famous Rocky statue.

Brad and I running the steps...look at all the scaffolding!

Rylee and Brad imitating The Thinker!

Me and Rylee posing in front of "The Gates of Hell!"

The Franklin Institute of Science, July 5th

2008-07-12T16:54:00.000-07:00

Okay, if you haven't noticed I've been trying new things, sometimes it works out and sometimes not. For example, my first set of pictures here-this is not what I expected. Sooner or later I'll get all this blogging stuff figured out.

The top picture is of Rylee and Steele in this huge steam engine in the train section of the Franklin Institute. It was so cool. Steele loved it! I had no idea Benjamin Franklin had a hand in sooo many inventions! This was definately one of my favorite stops, I highly recomend this museum for young and old. The second picture is a two-story heart, all the kiddos are at the top. You can actual walk the path the blood takes through the heart. Steele thought it was great fun and ran through it several times, at one point we moved on and couldn't find Steele. I started to panic a little and then saw him running out of the heart AGAIN!

In one particular area was the Sports Challenge room. This consisted of different activities to test your skills and abilities. In this picture Brad and I were racing wheel-chairs, notice the difference? I am in the racing chair and Brad is in the regular chair. He totally kicked my trash-so embarassing! A guy I didn't know standing there watching just had to point out that he'd never seen anyone in the racing wheelchair lose, that hurt my pride!

Steele has 3 cups of blood in his body and I have 20!

Brad tried out the sky chair-3 stories high! Rylee taking to surfing and Steele in his element, rock climbing. We also got to race cars to test our reflexes on the gas petal, throw different sized balls to measure the speed of the throws, virtual soccer, the high jump with and without the use of your arms, etc... A very fun place!

America's First Zoo - July 5th

2008-07-11T22:41:00.000-07:00

While visiting good old Philly we thought we'd check out the zoo, America's first zoo infact. Adults and kids had a great time. Steele found his heaven on earth at The Children's Petting Zoo (farm animals). Notice who is driving the tractor to the left. All the kids had a good time climbing around on the tractor, who would have thought the farm would be the hit! We decided to sport our Philly attire today as well, don't we all look cute in red and blue?

See the two big ol snakes behind Steele and Jaysa! Yeah, not a fan, the snakes give me the willies.

Here's a nice view of the elephant's, they never cease to amaze me! Jaysa was loving the ducks, maybe because it was a little more up close and personal. Rylee, Steele, and Bo brushing the goats, they loved that! It looked like all the goats were pregnant, but come to find out it is something to do with their stomachs. Look at my cute boys, isn't Jaysa lucky!
Family Photo op. I was all excited to see the amur tiger cubs. I saw something about it on the web site when we were checking things out. It wasn't quite what I expected. They were born last year and went from a few pounds to over 200lbs. in one year, needless to say they didn't look like babies anymore.

One more thing- we all stopped by the Zebras and were chatting about some Amish people near by (check out Vanessa's blog, she took a picture) when I turned back around to look at the Zebra's and guess who was inside the pen...Steele! He just went through the bars and was walking around in there. Luckly, it wasn't too close to the animals and we got him out before too many noticed. Vaness and I got quite the chuckle out of it, I think she even got a picture! Boys, you gotta love em!!!

The 4th of July in Philadelphia

2008-07-11T11:46:00.000-07:00

The National Constitution Center
This place was pretty amazing, it was a lot more than I expected. I thought this picture of Brad was so funny because it shows his legs. All the kiddos got patriotic tattoos. Our little family standing in front of a huge mural reciting the Declaration of Independance. Rylee and Steele showing of their tattoos just outside of the coolest round theater. It reminded me a little of the St. George musical round theater. We watched a 2ominute presentation about the road to becoming a FREE nation, pretty powerful.

The 4th of July in Philadelphia!

2008-07-11T11:42:00.000-07:00

We decided to be really patriotic this 4th and tour The National Constitution Center, Liberty Bell, and downtown Philly. What an awesome experience. In the pictures below (they didn't show up in the order I had anticipated) from L to R clockwise: The first Hospital in Philadelphia-they preformed surgery in the uppermost quarters where it would be the lightest, no electricity back then folks. The tour guide said the patients had their choice of wisky or a club to the head (I'm sure there's some truth to that), no anesthesia. Brad and the kids are in front of Benjamin Franklin's grave, people had thrown pennies all over it. Steele took a penny, "Look Mom, I found a "quarter"!" The next one is the plaque of B.F. outside the church cemetary walls. Finally the Capital Building.

Here we all are atop the double decker bus, looks like it cut out me and Vanessa. The next is a park right in the middle of town, referred to as LOVE park, there is a LOVE statue in the park that I didn't get a picture of. Isn't it beautiful. Atop this four-sided clock tower is William Penn, the founder of Pennsylvania. The last is a mural of the man ( I don't recall his name) that started a great program for delinquent graffiti artists. Instead of doing time in the slammer or whatever they did to them, he had them start using their talents to beautify the city with murals on the buildings, they are everywhere, and are really incredible.

My husband, Brad Eugene Barben, President of the United States of America! We didn't actually get to go inside the Mint, it was closed, so we just took a picture and called it good. The Liberty Bell-a reminder of our freedoms. Rylee and I got lost from the group for a minute when we went looking for a bathroom and found this cool flag made of balloons-a great photo op.

Inside the National Constitution Center they had a great little program for the kids due to the Holiday. In this one they are showing of their crafts (the lady helping with the crafts couldn't get over all the blonde headed kids, we were definately the minority). Rylee posing with James Madison. Brad buddying up to George Washington and Rylee signing the Declaration of Independance.

Adventure Aquarium

2008-07-03T19:56:00.000-07:00

What a fun day! We made it out to PA to visit Mike and Ness, Jeriah and Tam, and Uncle Jeff. Rylee and Steele have been so excited to pet the sharks, sting rays, and jelly fish so we headed out to the Aquarium first thing. They were a little hesitant at first, but warmed up to it by the end. Rylee couldn't get enough of the jelly fish, they were cool. We are so happy to be here with our cousins!

1. The crew, minus the guys at work, in front of a huge fish tank. 2. Brad and Jaysa posing by the jelly fish...so incredible! 3. Outside of the Aquarium-we had to go over this bridge to get to New Jersey. 4. Aaaah, that shark's gettin Ry and Bri!

The Narrows

2008-07-01T11:51:00.000-07:00

Our little Steeley Man has found a new love this summer. He is all about hiking. So, that's what we did for FHE, we went hiking in a 110 degree weather! As you can see, he is in all his glory, definately a boy! Rylee, Steele, and I all went through the narrows while Dad went around the top with Jaysa. We hiked around for about a hour, much longer and one of us would have gone down with heat stroke I'm sure! We had fun regardless!!!

Brad and Jaysa in the distance. I just love the red rocks...Gorgeous!

Rylee and Steele

Jaysa has fun too.

Just coming out of the narrows.

No wonder Jaysa likes it, free ride!

A Heated Game of Darts!

2008-06-29T21:13:00.001-07:00

Dad, Mom, Genis, and Brad played a couple intense games of Darts! It happens to be a lot of fun. Dad won one game and Brad won the other. I came in third both times and Mom dead last. It's okay mom we still love you! We also managed to watch Mobsters and Mormons at the same time, great show, very funny!

Brad showing off his Bullseye!

Mom's sweet form!

See what I mean about intense!

Spectator Jaysa!

OH NO!!!

2008-06-25T13:09:00.001-07:00

Tomato worms in our garden! The kids were great to look at them, but wouldn't have a thing to do with helping me to get them off the plants. I had to glove up and then still couldn't bear to touch the things. I ended up pulling the whole leaf off.

Jaysa was the only one who wanted to touch them! When Brad got home from YM's we let him get rid of them. Rylee gave my a stern warning last night, "Mom, don't you dare let those be our pets!" I normally wouldn't let her get away with talking to me like that, but under the circumstances I was in full agreement.

Boating at Sand Hollow

2008-06-25T12:38:00.000-07:00

We celebrated Miki's 20th Birthday at the Lake Monday night. Everyone wakeboarded, even Mom. The water wasn't the greatest, but we had a fun time regardless. Rylee surprised us all by begging Brad to take her boarding, she did awesome! I got an instant headache with my last face plant in the water and I'm pretty sure I pulled something in my upper thigh when the board ripped off me. Oh well, I will recover, hopefully. We all had a great time. We can never seem to get enough of the lake!

Sooo cute!

She's been trained well don't you think?

Put em up!

Rylee's first time wakeboarding!

Holding on for dear life! Thanks Dad!

My first attempt of the season

Dad, Lexi, and Brad

A new favorite snack!

Jaysa Walking

2008-06-22T20:05:00.000-07:00

I'm finally convinced to blog!

2008-06-22T19:53:00.000-07:00

I think I'm going to try out this blogging stuff. I have so much fun looking at everyone else's. We've been hanging out at my family's house tonight and I've been checking out all my cousin's blogs and family blogs. My kids love seeing their cousins in PA. So, I'm attempting with a lot of help from my sister, Lexi. Only time will tell how well I'll do at keeping it updated!

fun famliy photos

2008-06-22T19:44:00.000-07:00

cartoon crazy

Leno and family.

leave it to beaver?

twisted love

now i don't have to wonder what i would look like as a Lama.