Rankin Family

'Tis the Season...

2010-12-14T20:26:00.000-08:00

Last year Mason hand made his gifts to the family. This year he has decided to do the same thing and has started to use the loom to knit hats. He wasn't sure how big he needed to make it so he showed me and gave it to me as an early Christmas present.

Thanks Mason....Pretty cool stuff!

Christmas Tree Lighting

2010-12-05T17:33:00.000-08:00

Every year at the beginning of December, we have gone down to the Capital Building and have seen the Governor light the Christmas Tree... This year was another great time.
(Keaton lost his hat but then found it again)
Sorry for the bad cellphone picture... Merry Christmas!

Halloween!

2010-11-01T23:10:00.000-07:00

We had some friends over and enjoyed the treats!!!!

Aunt Audrey and Uncle John!

2010-10-04T23:03:00.000-07:00

My Aunt and Uncle came into town (I haven't seen in a long time) We spent the weekend catchin' up and visiting with them.

We love you... it was so great to see you!

Yellowstone and Jackson Hole Tournament

2010-09-23T15:11:00.000-07:00

We couldn't pass up the opportunity to make a trip out of the soccer tournament in Jackson Hole... so we took the kids out of school for a couple days. Mason isn't in any of the pictures because he's to cool to hang with the family. Actually, he didn't go because he was working hard in school and you can't miss too many days in high school. He missed out big time though because we all had a blast. When my dad found out Mason wasn't going he wanted to go in his spot.He also couldn't pass up the opportunity of visiting his old stomping grounds. We went to Yellowstone for a whole day and then headed to Jackson Hole for Brooklyn's soccer tournament. Her team ended up losing in the finals but they did awesome.

Click here for bigger slideshow(click here).

Keaton's Birthday

2010-09-14T22:51:00.000-07:00

Keaton had a birthday that ended up on the same day as one of his soccer games. He still wanted to go play so we had the game right before his family party, everyone came out to see him play soccer before the party. Happy Birthday Keaton we love you!

He also had a special lunch again at sizzler because of the complimentary ice cream float! (look at the size of that thing!)

First Day of School.

2010-09-01T22:43:00.000-07:00

I can hardly believe how fast the summer has gone by... School time already.
Look at these cuties....Bridger is now in a preschool group that me and some other ladies have put together, he is becoming quite the smarty pants!

Deadwood and Warm Lake

2010-08-25T22:33:00.000-07:00

Click here for bigger slideshow(click here).
The kids all wanted to go camping at Warm Lake... to swing off the rope swing among other things. Since we were close to Deadwood we drove in to catch some nice fish. (a great fish fry...yummy)
While camping here we encountered Bears again... bears at Redfish and now Bears at Warm lake, this summer was the summer of camping with the bears.

Beautiful Baskets!

2010-08-19T22:12:00.000-07:00

We have always gotten Jill flower baskets for Mother's day, but this year Jill wanted to create her own to see how well they did.... Needless to say, I was thoroughly impressed. Nice job sweetie, these make the house beautiful.

Brooklyn and Jill off to Spokane!

2010-08-15T21:56:00.000-07:00

Click here for bigger slideshow(click here).
This was Jill's first road trip driving by herself....(scary!) She and Brooklyn went to Spokane for a soccer tournament. With Brandon starting a new job he wasn't able to take time off to go. So they made it a girls road trip! Her team did great making it all the way to the finals.(even with lousy officials) The girls even got to go stop by Lake Coeur d'Alene and resort for lunch and a walk around the boardwalk.

Camping at Red Fish Lake

2010-08-09T21:26:00.000-07:00

A summer isn't complete without at least one trip to Red Fish Lake. Always beautiful and always a good time.

Click here for bigger slideshow(click here).

Bridger knows how to swim!

2010-08-08T21:12:00.000-07:00

kick, kick, kick...

Everyone of our children is a fish. Thanks to their mother fish (former swim instructor/lifeguard), she makes sure she teaches them all early and they all love the water. Bridger was asking for his own lessons and took to the water instantly.

Mason's Birthday

2010-08-01T20:59:00.000-07:00

He wanted an Acoustic guitar!

Mason had a wonderful birthday with the family. Later in the week he had another party with some of his friends (they went swimming, had a water balloon fight, a scavenger hunt, Mason even got smacked on the forehead with his first kiss!)

We love you Mason! another year and almost taller than your Mom!

Boating with the Longs

2010-07-31T21:22:00.000-07:00

We went boating with some friends (thanks Longs) and everyone had a blast!

Brooklyn was able to get up on the wake board.
She did awesome. What a fun day!

4th of July

2010-07-04T20:49:00.000-07:00

We had a small 4th of July at our house with family. It's always good to get the cousins together.

Family Reunion 2010

2010-06-27T21:10:00.000-07:00

We had a blast this year in McCall, Idaho for our Pickett family reunion.

Click here for bigger slideshow(click here).

Keaton's Graduation

2010-06-08T20:41:00.000-07:00

Ice Cream always follows a special event with Keaton!

Love from Grandma and Papa!

Keaton and his personality makes his graduation day that more fun! We love you Keaton!

Mason's Academic in Excellence award.

2010-06-07T20:35:00.000-07:00

Mason received an Academic award for being on the honor role for all four years of middle school.
(sorry the picture is fuzzy it was taken with my phone.)

5th grade celebration

2010-06-04T22:16:00.000-07:00

Brooklyn had a 5th grade graduation party with singing, dancing, and tons of games. She also got picked to be in the 5th grade talent show with her friend. They put together a fun dance.:)

Camping at Bruneau Sand Dunes

2010-05-31T21:32:00.000-07:00

Looking down from the dune. Can you see the trailer?

Nothing like a trek up the tallest Dune. (only the tallest Sand Dune in North America!)

We always love a trip to Bruneau Sand Dunes... Cool pathway huh!

Mason Playing Tennis this year!

2010-05-11T20:18:00.000-07:00

This year Mason went out for the tennis team and ended up being undefeated in the doubles category.

Mason's AAU basketball

2010-04-24T22:06:00.000-07:00

Mason also did another season of basketball with AAU. He enjoyed it way better than his school team and he improved on his game.

Cutting hair.

2010-04-20T21:56:00.000-07:00

Brooklyn decided she wanted to donate her beautiful hair to Pantene's beautiful lengths. She was able to donate 12 inches of hair. It was probably more traumatic for me then it was for her to cut it. But, it still looks cute and I think it's an awesome donation.

Our little bear's birthday.

2010-04-20T21:35:00.000-07:00

"I'm four"

"I beat you dad again!!"

His dinosaur birthday cake.

"Yes, a big red ball!!"

Donuts for breakfast.

Bridger's birthday was awesome and the weather cooperated great! We even got to spend the day in the park for a picnic with the family. Notice we are wearing shorts in April, it was really that nice.

Keaton's spring 2010 soccer

2010-04-10T21:26:00.000-07:00

Are lefty sure knows how to use his big foot because he was a scoring machine on the field.

Birthday Girl!!

2010-04-03T20:59:00.000-07:00

Brooklyn's Birthday Cake

Fishing Pole from Grandma and Grandpa.

Mexican Birthday Lunch. (Ella Favorita)

The new vanity that dad built for her.

Her new build-a-bear from her three awesome brothers.

A picture of her in action on a poster board.

Birthday Girl we love you.

Pasco, Washington Soccer Tournament

2010-02-27T20:42:00.000-08:00

Brooklyn got invited to travel to Pasco for a soccer tournament with her sister team. It was her first traveling tournament, so Brandon and I went with her. She played awesome and we are so proud of her.The first game was really cool to watch because the fog was so thick that you couldn't even see the other side of the field.

BSU Soccer Tournament

2010-02-20T20:36:00.000-08:00

Brooklyn always thinks it is pretty cool to play on BSU's blue turf every year.

Sock Hop

2010-02-19T20:26:00.000-08:00

The kids jamming at the school sock hop.

Winter Carnival

2010-01-31T20:18:00.000-08:00

Every year we try to go to McCall for the winter carnival as a family. The kids really look forward to it with the sledding, ice sculptures, and a good snowball fight.

Mason's Basketball winter 2010

2010-01-20T19:17:00.000-08:00

Mason had a great season and he especially loved the coach...ha ha.

2009 Chistmas Day

2009-12-25T19:11:00.000-08:00

We had a great Christmas and everyone seemed happy with what they got especially me. My little baby bear.:)

Brandon made mason a Long board for Christmas with the help from his brother Chris.

It was definitely a big hit for Christmas morning.

Our family has its own band.

This says it all.

Brooklyn's Art Contest

2009-12-09T00:16:00.000-08:00

The winning photo... "Beauty is the endless journey"

This year Brooklyn entered into the Relections Art contest. There were 3 categories, and she entered the Photography one. The theme was "Beauty is..." so the entries were suppose to be about that theme. Brooklyn took a beautiful picture down at the old Train Depot in Boise. She ended up winning first in her Category and is moving on to the district level. She titled her work "the Endless Journey." They had a nice little reception to honor those who won, she got a medal a ribbon and certificate. We are very proud of you Brooklyn... you were all smiles tonight.

First Snow of the Year!

2009-12-07T12:11:00.000-08:00

He had our first snow fall of the year Monday. Keaton couldn't wait to get out and play in it.

Keaton's black eye

2009-11-27T14:00:00.000-08:00

During Thankgiving the kids were playing tag in the dark upstairs. Keaton, while hiding, hit his head on the foosball table giving himself a big black eye. He told everyone afterward that it makes him look tough. Later on when it was getting better and the bruising was going away he asked his sister to hit him in the eye again so he could continue looking like a tough guy.... we love you Keaton and the silly things you do.

Thanksgiving

2009-11-26T23:42:00.000-08:00

This Thanksgiving started out bright and early, first we got the turkey ready for cooking. Then Brandon tricked me in to going to a turkey bowl. It's my sister in-laws family that does it every year. All the kids seem to have fun. Our team won of course. Since Thanksgiving was at our house, I spent the majority of the day cooking and cleaning up. Brandon invited his brother Chris and his family over this year. Everything tasted great and it was an enjoyable evening.

Keaton's Thankgiving Feast

2009-11-25T17:00:00.000-08:00

Keaton's class at school had a Thanksgiving feast full of Indians and Pilgrims.

Mason broke his Nose!

2009-11-01T20:18:00.000-08:00

Mason broke his nose in PE class at school. They were playing dodge ball and was able to dodge the ball that was thrown at him but hit another player in the process. His nose collided with another kids head.

Needless to say he is going to have to go get it fixed this next week.

Happy Halloween

2009-10-31T19:43:00.000-07:00

It's that time of season when all the ghosts and goblins come out. Mason and his friends decided to be rockers from the band Green Day. Brooklyn was the #1 Diva movie star. Keaton was a GI Joe character and Bridger was a little Dinosaur. The kids had a good time this halloween getting lots of candy at the trunk-or-treat and around the neighborhood. The kids also had fun carving up their pumpkins this year.

Keaton's Birthday!

2009-09-12T18:47:00.000-07:00

Today is Keaton's big day...it's his birthday! When my kids have a birthday I try to make it all about them. Hopefully they'll look back on these days with fond memories. For lunch he wanted to go to sizzler. He got excited when we gave him his presents and to top it off they brought out a HUGE root beer float. Then at school they had a little party for him. Later that night family came over to celebrate with him. Keaton this year wanted a BSU and a cowboy theme, so we worked it out. The next day after school we took a few friends down to the BSU sub to bowl with him. Not sure if I'll do that again till their older! We love Keaton!!

Fish Fry!

2009-09-07T17:19:00.000-07:00

Labor Day Weekend
We decided at the last minute to take one final camping trip as a family. We wanted to make it more of a fishing trip this time. We camped at Red Fish, but drove to Deadwood Reservoir for the day to fish. The kids caught some great fish and they tasted delicious. The next day we spent it at the beach playing in the water and taking in the sun one more time.

Click here for bigger slideshow(click here).

First Day of school

2009-08-31T17:59:00.000-07:00

My big Kindergartner!

My big 5th grader!

My Big 8th grader!

Mason and Brooklyn rule there schools this year. And my baby boy started school! He missed the cut off last year so he was ready and so excited to start school. Bridger on the other hand was not ready to lose his buddy... there was lots of tears when we left. I can't believe how big they're all getting!

Dad's Birthday

2009-08-27T22:43:00.001-07:00

We all celebrated my Dad's birthday in the park this past week. It was a good BBQ. Happy Birthday Dad, I love you!

Camping at Red Fish

2009-08-27T22:35:00.000-07:00

We went camping at Redfish a couple weeks ago and as always it was great. We did get rained on one of the nights and part of the morning, while we were there but other than that it was a great time. We camped with some friends up there and we all had a great time. Thanks Becks!

(to enjoy a bigger slideshow of pictures! click here)

Recovery mode.... after surgery...blog catch-up

2009-08-07T20:03:00.000-07:00

Sorry I have not posted on the blog in a while I had surgery at the beginning of June. I had a hysterectomy. Life in our house has been extremely busy since then. So for the past couple weeks I've been trying to get things back to normal. My family seems a lot more happy with me cooking and cleaning again... one thing Brandon has stated, "When Momma is not happy no one is happy!" Brandon prays nothing happens to me again because he stated he wouldn't survive without me, but I don't know if I can survivie the chaos either. Such is life with four little ones. Anyway I told myself I would use this as a journal for us and the kids to look back on, now it has gotten behind. I'll be better and this will be updated, sorry to those loved ones who read this.

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Beginning of June- School ended. Kids were out of school for the summer.
Mason's basball season/tournament ended.Here's some pictures of him in action:

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Also in the beginning of June-
I had my birthday, my family came over and we celebrated. I was kind of out of it from the pain medicine. This year my birthday stunk. I couldn't eat anything or drink anything because I felt terrible.

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Around June 20th-
We went up to Emmett again this year for our annual cherry picking with my Mom and Dad. With me still recovering I took it easy and didn't lift the many cherry buckets.
(to enjoy a bigger slideshow of pictures! click here)

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The Annual Pickett Family Reunion-
Look at all the grandkids... they grow every year.
We went to the annual Pickett family reunion. It was at Warm Lake this year and we had a blast. We had never been there before so we didn't know what to expect. The campsites were great. Every night we stayed up late around the campfire and even had a talent show... and yes next year Myles you do have to plan some kind of skit. We had a big fish fry after catching 20 something fish. Thanks Grandpa for cleaning them and cooking. We all had fun at the lake and swinging on the rope swing. I of course being in recovery mode couldn't swim or do any of that so I sat and enjoyed the sun in the beach chair.

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July 4th-
We had a small get together at our house to let off some fire works. It was another great evening among friends and family.

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Mid July-
We went camping at Cascade Lake with some friends (She's my old friend from High School).
The first day was beautiful blue skies and the second was a little over cast but that didn't stop the kids. Thanks Hopkins, we had a blast.

(to enjoy a bigger slideshow of pictures! click here)

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End of July- (Mason's Birthday)
We went back to Warm Lake, he wanted to take some buddies for his birthday and go camping. Our friends the Dalleys wanted to do a test run for camping for the first time with their family. We enjoyed the sun, the lake and hot springs. We even managed to get into trouble from the camp ranger for being so loud. It's Mitchell, Mason and Payten's (Huey Duey and Luey) fault, they were making us laugh so loud.
Dalley's even survived. On the way home we got a flat tire so it made it that much more memorable.

(to enjoy a bigger slideshow of pictures! click here)

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Brooklyn's President's Cup Soccer Tournament.

2009-06-01T22:46:00.000-07:00

Brooklyn had a Soccer tournament this last weekend and her team ended up in the championship(they played their sister team in the same soccer club) and took 2nd place. She received a 2nd place medal that she has continually worn around since the game. She had a great time and performed very well(not bruising too many other girls). Good job sweety!(to enjoy a bigger slideshow of pictures! click here)

Memorial Day... Remembering those before us....

2009-05-25T22:27:00.000-07:00

Hey this is Brandon, I just have a little something to say about Memorial Day. Every year I take Jill and the kids up to see my Dad's grave on Memorial Day and over the years the kids attitude has changed to now they expect to go up and see Grandpa's grave. We also look at all the soldier's graves while there. The Idaho State Veterans Memorial is in the same cemetery as my Dad's and it gives us the chance to reflect on all the soldiers who gave their lives so we could live in freedom. This country is great and we are very fortunate to live where we live and have what we have. Hopefully our country can stay strong to its values during these hard times. I salute and thank all the fallen soldiers this memorial day for the freedom we enjoy. Thanks.

Anderson Ranch Reservior (Memorial day Weekend)

2009-05-25T22:17:00.000-07:00

We went up to Anderson Ranch Reservoir over Memorial Day weekend. It was beautiful. The kids enjoyed the water and we all had fun around the campfire. Keaton (Mom really) caught the only fish the entire weekend but it was still a good time(to enjoy a bigger slideshow of pictures! click here)

Taylor Swift (Girls night out concert!)

2009-05-18T21:35:00.000-07:00

What a crazy night it was.... and no one can ever say Kelli and I aren't cool Mom's. We took our girls to the Taylor Swift Concert. They all had a blast and we even got to shake her hand. Brooklyn also got a hug from Taylor's Mother. It was a fun night out and I love spending time with my daughter.
(to enjoy a bigger slideshow of pictures! click here)

Summer is officially here.... kids are playing hard.

2009-05-17T20:11:00.000-07:00

It is getting close to summer time, the kids are outside more (even though they are still in school.) They play hard and get tired so quickly (from the sun)... poor Bridger fell asleep almost standing up at the dinner table. At first Brandon thought he got down from his chair to say a prayer to bless his food but then he started snoring... sweet Bridger.

I always love summer...
I think you know summer is here when it is hot enough outside, after a while of being out, you have to go inside for cooler temperatures....
Another sign of summer is when you take part in the first watermelon of the season. We had one this evening. We know Bridger enjoyed it...

Brooklyn's dance recital

2009-05-17T19:51:00.000-07:00

Brooklyn had her dance recital this past Saturday(May 16th) and has gotten to be really good. I enjoy seeing her improve with each performance. Good Job Sweety! We love you.

14 years? Wow time flies....

2009-05-12T19:29:00.000-07:00

On May 13th Brandon and I have been married 14 years. It is hard to believe that it has been that long. The time flies so quickly.
Through all the ups and downs, trials and happiness, and 4 kids later... he is still my best friend. I love you...
Before:

After:

Brooklyn's Soccer Tournament (Performance Cup 2009)

2009-05-03T21:23:00.000-07:00

Brooklyn competed in the Performance Cup soccer tournament this spring. Five western States converged on the Boise Area for a sweet weekend of soccer. The weather was crazy... rain one minute and sunny the next... it made for an exciting weekend.
It's fun to see the teams compete against other teams outside the area. It really got Brooklyn excited for her next tournament (President's Cup)

Keaton's Baseball

2009-05-01T20:01:00.000-07:00

Keaton has tried out baseball for the first time. Needless to say it has been interesting. He is adorable to watch play, he cracks me up.
He is slowly getting the hang of things and improving.
We love you Keaton.

Mason's Basketball

2009-04-28T21:24:00.000-07:00

Mason's basketball season is over at school and he has really improved this year. Now he can just concentrate on one sport. Having baseball and basketball during the same time has been busy. Good Job Mason we love you!

Shoshone Falls (fully flowing)

2009-04-20T20:49:00.000-07:00

We took a like drive last weekend to see the Shoshone Falls in full force. They are beautiful falls. It was packed with people so we parked a little ways up the canyon and hiked down the road with our neighbors.

(to enjoy a bigger slideshow of pictures! click here)

Bridger's Birthday!

2009-04-18T21:32:00.000-07:00

Our little Bridger turned 3!
We celebrated after the morning of soccer and baseball games, we went to Wahooz and miniature golfed. He loves to play with the family.(hole in one!)
Bridger in his new soccer outfit and soccer ball.

Later that evening we had family over for ice cream roll... (Brandon is getting pretty good at making them).
It's hard to believe our baby is already three years old. We can't imagine life without him. He completes our family.
We love you Bridger!(oh Pickles! as Bridger would say...)

Easter Sunday.

2009-04-12T09:55:00.000-07:00

Another Easter has come and gone. It is always a good time to remember and reflect upon our Savior and the sacrifice he made for us. We had a great day with Church, dyeing Easter eggs, and going to Grandma and Papa's house for dinner. (It was also Uncle Myles birthday so we celebrated that as well)

Socks and Slippers for Easter!

2009-04-12T09:37:00.000-07:00

This year we brought home two new additions to the Rankin home... not that we are busy enough... For Easter we surprised the kids with two little baby bunnies.(Holland Lops) It's so fun to watch everyone cuddle with them. (even Brandon has taken a liking... not that he will admit it) We named them socks and slippers.

Keaton's getting older! (a day of firsts)

2009-04-11T09:16:00.000-07:00

It has been a busy couple weeks for Keaton. He lost his first tooth (on 4/10/09)

... Keaton's first trip to school(kindergarten orientation 4/2/09)....and He's riding a two wheeler for the first time with no training wheels. He even went on a 3 hour bike ride with the family on the green-belt along the Boise River.
We love you Keaton.

Brooklyn is 10!

2009-04-05T23:52:00.000-07:00

(to enjoy a bigger slideshow of pictures! click here)

Brooklyn turned 10 this last week. We started out with lunch at (Brooklyn's choice) then to Wahooz for some miniature golf and Lazer Tag. After that we had to fit in her soccer game (in the pouring rain) and then we had a family party. The next day her and some friends came over had a little party and then went to the YMCA to swim.
We could go on and on and on and on about Brooklyn but we just need to stop and say We love you Brooklyn!

Bruneau Sand Dunes (Idaho State Park)

2009-03-21T22:19:00.000-07:00

(to enjoy a bigger slideshow of pictures! click here)

Over Spring Break (which really wasn't spring, still rainy) we went to Bruneau Sand Dunes, it is one of the many Idaho State parks. It was fun, the kids really enjoyed it and it turned out to be perfect weather. It wasn't blistering hot like during the summer and it wasn't windy. At first we(Brandon and I) were only going to walk around the lake and watch the kids go up to the top of the Dune... but I wanted to show Brandon how strong I am so I started hiking up with the kids... and he followed. We made it to the top of the tallest Dune. Good thing there wasn't a camera available to take my picture during those last steep steps. We also had a soccer game, a baseball game and managed to sneak in a s'more around an evening campfire. It was a great time. You will have to ask Mason who makes the better campfire, Me or him(the boy scout!) Just kidding Mason.

Brooklyn and the talent show.

2009-03-14T22:08:00.000-07:00

Brooklyn is becoming quite the performer. A friend of Brooklyn wanted her to help dance in a talent show with her.
Her mom taught them the dance, they practiced for a week and put on a good show. Quite the cute girls.

Mason is First Class!

2009-02-22T22:00:00.000-08:00

Mason is progressing as a Scout.
He earned his First Class Rank and was presented it at the court of Honor for the Scouts. With rank advancements the Mom gets a pin and the scout gets to pin it on their Mom. Good job Mason!

Brooklyns BSU Soccer Tournament

2009-02-22T14:48:00.000-08:00

Brooklyn got to go down to BSU and play in a soccer tournament on the "Blue Turf" 3 different games on the blue football field and indoor complex.
She had a great time. She did great and it was fun to watch. It is neat to see her improve, learn and enjoy playin' the way she does. Oh to be young again and so ambitious....

(to enjoy a bigger slideshow of pictures! click here)

Bowling with the kids...

2009-02-17T09:16:00.001-08:00

We took the kids bowling for family night and they all had fun.
Bridger is quite the cute little guy, he insisted that he do it himself without help.
He would then lay down to watch his ball creep down the lane. Keaton joined him one of the times so I had to get a picture.

This message was sent using the Picture and Video Messaging service from Verizon Wireless.

Brooklyn's Sweet Liberty Dance Team.

2009-02-15T21:55:00.000-08:00

Brooklyn went to a clinic last week held by the Centennial High School Drill team dancers. She worked all week after school on the dance and then on Friday evening she performed during the half-time of the Varsity Basketball game.
It's funny to go back to look at the high school we went to and see how it's changed.

Walking with Dinosaurs!

2009-02-15T21:35:00.000-08:00

Sorry this is a late post. Back in January, Brandon took Keaton and Bridger to the Walking with Dinosaurs Show.
Needless to say the boys loved it and had a wonderful time.
Keaton and Bridger were on the edge of their seats the whole time. When the huge T-Rex came out at the end of the show he stood up and clapped he was so excited.
A couple days later he wrote the dinosaur people a note telling them how he liked the dinoaurs so much and wanted them to come back.... it was a big hit.

Klondike Derby

2009-01-31T22:12:00.000-08:00

Mason and Brandon (Asst. Scoutmaster) went to Cascade Idaho and camped in 3 feet of snow and 13 degree weather. Part of the campout (Friday Night) was showing the scouts how to build snow shelters and survive out in the cold. On Saturday, the boys raced around and participated in various activities. They built a klondike sled weeks before and raced it around with survival gear on it.

Out of 555 scouts that participated, only 12 scouts could tie the 7 Scouting knots within a 1 minute time. Mason came in 6th place with 49 seconds. Nice job Mason!

Artists!

2009-01-25T19:12:00.000-08:00

Two little artists learning how to paint and draw in the kitchen! I love my little boys, if they could stay little forever... they grow too fast!

Bridger's Big Boy Hair Cut!

2009-01-18T19:04:00.000-08:00

Grandma usually comes over to cut the boys hair. Everytime she tries to cut Bridger's hair, he is a pain to get to sit still. He whines and cries. This time was different he saw Mason and Keaton do it and decided he was big enough to do it as well. He sat there so sweet for the first time! We love you Bridger!

Keaton is the muffin man!

2009-01-12T18:59:00.000-08:00

Lately Keaton is loving to eat muffins, He is now the one who insists that we make muffins! He's so cute as a helper. We love you Keaton!

Nothing like a New Year's Swim!

2009-01-01T18:51:00.000-08:00

On New Years day, We got invited to go swimming with Chris and Shauna at the natural hot springs pool. Everyone had fun, It was freezing cold outside, but the pool felt great! Thanks for the invite Chris and Shauna!

Christmas Eve Jammies!

2008-12-25T18:47:00.000-08:00

Every year we allow the kids to open one gift on Christmas Eve! and every year it is magically a new pair of pajamas... Yeah!

Building of an Igloo...

2008-12-24T16:35:00.000-08:00

How do you build an Igloo?... you roll snow into giant snowballs and then stack them up so high you can crawl underneath it and then fill in the cracks.

Bridger wants to wish you a Merry Christmas!

2008-12-21T19:09:00.001-08:00

Dad and Bridger were messing around with the video camera and wanted to wish you all a merry Christmas! We sure love you little Bridger! (mute the music on the player at the bottom of the page to hear the video better)

Santa's Helpers make a Gingerbread Train

2008-12-21T17:00:00.000-08:00

Brooklyn, Keaton, Bridger, Mason and Dad... (but mostly Brooklyn because she has more patience than the boys)... made a Gingerbread Train. It was from a kit that our friend gave to us for Christmas.

The Christmas Spirit! (I think Keaton found it)

2008-12-17T09:41:00.000-08:00

Hey this is Brandon, Jill usually does the blogging or at least directs what is and isn't posted. I just sometimes interject with my random thoughts from time to time.
This is another one of those thoughts.
It's about the Christmas Spirit, and what exactly it is? I think I understand it a little better now, please bare with me while I share a little.
Last year watching my girl Brooklyn, she was fired up about Christmas, she was the first to push me to get the lights up on the house. She was the first to be so excited about delivering treats and such to neighbors.
Most everyone catches the spirit, some just quicker than others, this year as I observe, I see it in Keaton first. He was the first one to get after me to get the lights up on the house. (Me being my lazy self) I told him I needed help to do it this year. He then replied "I can help you Dad... I'm a great helper" Although he was more of a supervisor than a helper. It's that excitement for Christmas they feel.
I think the thing that hit me is when I took him out to go Christmas shopping for his mom, He (being 5 and big now!) knew exactly what he wanted... cost didn't matter, it took some convincing from Dad that Mom didn't want the $3,000 item(at least that it wasn't in the budget)... in the end, he has happy with what he picked out. On the way home, he kept telling me how she was going to love it and how he couldn't wait to wrap it. So he(or we because Dad needed to help a little) wrapped it all nice for Mom when we got home.
...I see the spirit of Christmas in him, "It's that feeling of joy you get when you are getting ready to give a gift to someone you love. The gift is something you know they are going to like, and you anticipate how they will feel. You get excited for them and feel that spirit... The gift can be big, small, or even a simple treat or even something of service. It's just that feeling you feel knowing you are helping them or making them feel good."
Keaton has found it and he has helped me start to find it as well... Thanks Keaton!
...I continually learn from my children, how blessed I am.

First Snow this year!

2008-12-15T17:29:00.000-08:00

It snowed for the the first time (with a couple of inches) this year and the kids love it. Christmas always seems better went there is snow. I just hope it doesn't melt away between now and Christmas. Brandon and the boys(Keaton and Bridger) Played for hours in it.

Ward Party

2008-12-15T17:21:00.001-08:00

We went to our church's christmas party and had a delicious dinner. We sang songs and all the primary kids acted out the 1st Christmas with Mary and Joseph and Baby Jesus. Towards the end of the night the kids got to sit on Santa's lap. It was a great evening.

Mason's Basketball Tournament

2008-12-15T17:09:00.000-08:00

Mason had his Basketball Tournament, it was a single elimination tournament. Mason's team only has 6 players. During the first game of the tournament they played a team that had twice as many players. At first Mason's team got way ahead but then ran out of steam. The other team caught back up and tied it so it went into overtime. At the end of the over time it was tied again so they went into double over time, this time without a time clock (tournamnet games needed to keep on schedule) Anyway with the next basket wins. The play went up and down the basketball court with no baskets Finaly Mason got a sweet pass from his team mate Trevor and he made the winning basket that advanced them to the next bracket.

They lost the next game but it was sure fun to watch the first one.

Brooklyn's Dance Recital

2008-12-15T16:48:00.000-08:00

Saturday Dec.13th Brooklyn had her Dance Recital. She was so beautiful in her outfit and did a great job. From dancing to soccer she is a talented little girl. Her dance was to the song "One step at a time" by Jordan Sparks. She had a lot of fun and wants to do it again.

You sick Twisted Freak! (as per Glenn Beck)

2008-12-08T22:22:00.000-08:00

Last Night we went to see Glenn Beck, on his tour for "the Christmas Sweater"
(For those who don't know) Brandon and I enjoy and are faithful listeners of Glenn Beck on his radio show and his TV Show. At any rate, Brandon got us free tickets and it was a great evening. I highly recommend anyone, (if they have a chance) to go see it or read the book. It is about his personal story from his life.
Here's a fuzzy picture (what can you expect from a security guard taking a picture) but Brandon did get to shake his hand and autograph.
Here's a link: Glenn Beck's Web site click here

Santa's Lap (Craft Fair)

2008-12-08T22:15:00.000-08:00

Brooklyn played hookie from school and went with me and the boys (along with Grandma and Aunt Becky) to the Christmas craft fair. It's always fun to see the things people make and do for the holidays.
The kids got to visit Santa and Mrs. Clause. Keaton and Bridger were so excited they couldn't stop saying hi and bye to him when we walked by him.

Lighting of the State Christmas Tree

2008-12-02T09:38:00.000-08:00

The Christmas Season has begun. The lights are up and music is ringing around town. Last night we went downtown and saw the State lighting of the State Christmas Tree.
The kids each had cookies and hot cocoa, the choir sang christmas carols, and the governer's wife read "twas the night before christmas in Idaho" a children's book. It was a great evening.

Happy Thanksgiving! Turkey Bowl!

2008-11-30T09:22:00.000-08:00

Thanksgiving Day was a beautiful thing.
Nice crisp day with beautiful sunshine.
We had a turkey bowl football game with Chris and Shauna's family around noon which was great fun. Keaton played with Grace while Mason, Brooklyn, and even Dad scored touchdowns, it was fun.

We then went to Terin and Becky's house for Dinner. Everything tasted great.

Wonderful food, wonderful family.... there is a lot to be thankful for.

Christmas is here!

2008-11-29T22:26:00.000-08:00

The kids have been bugging us to put up the Christmas lights and Tree. We usually wait until after Thanksgiving but this year we were a couple days before. We Decorated the tree and put up the lights on the house.
Christmas time is a wonderful season I can see why the kids can't wait. Here is a picture of the kids with their festive hats... we are so lucky! Bridger is so cute, he keeps showing us which stocking is his.

Birthday Dinner

2008-11-21T22:04:00.000-08:00

Monday the 17th we went out to PF Chang's for my Mom's Birthday. The dinner was great and everyone had a good night out without the kids. Best of all, it was a surprise, my mom didn't know it was happening until she got to the restaurant.
Happy Brithday Mom! Love you, Jill
Check out the fun pictures (Brandon's not in the picture because he's taking it)

McCall... Happy Birthday Chris!

2008-11-17T21:33:00.000-08:00

This past weekend we went to McCall to surprise my Brother-in-law Chris for his birthday. His wife Shauna planned everything and I wish I had a shot of his face when he opened the door and saw us. The cabin was right on the lake and had a wonderful view right out the back door.
The dinner was awesome, and the kids favorite part they said was when they went ice skating with their cousins.
Overall it was a great weekend, Thanks Chris and Shauna for the great weekend. (and a Happy Birthday Chris or should I say... Ska-doosh!)

(to enjoy a bigger slideshow of pictures! click here)

Bridger is a big boy!

2008-11-10T22:58:00.001-08:00

Believe it or not, Bridger has lost his binki! It is 3 weeks today that he has gone with out his precious binki, so far so good, we've only had some late night episodes of binki withdrawal, but we think he is over it.
Ever since the binki disappeared another important thing disappeared also, can you guess what that is? His daily nap. I was re-thinking my decision after a week but I'm sure it's for the best. Love you lots Bridger!

Happy Halloween

2008-11-02T18:33:00.000-08:00

Here they are all dressed looking scary and cute all at the same time.
We went to some friends house for a hay ride and trick-or-treating.
We couldn't have asked for nicer weather.

While trick-or-treating we came across a haunted-house.
Mason was scared, so Keaton held his hand!

Keaton's Fall Soccer

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

We had Keaton's end of the season soccer party tonight! He had a really fun season playing. As you can see from his facial expressions in the pictures he is having an awesome time. He is such a joy and cracks us up everytime we watch him play.
Nice job Keaton! My little lefty!
For being the youngest on his team he is doing pretty good, he can run with the best of them. Not to mention he loves me to take his picture.

(to enjoy a bigger slideshow of pictures! click here)

Mason's Football, (yep you read that right, Football not Soccer)

2008-10-21T21:33:00.000-07:00

This year Mason being the all around kid that he is wanted to try out football instead of soccer. This was a little shock to us since he has played soccer since he was 4 years old. We are so proud of his effort that he put forth in his football season this year. He practiced 5 days a week for 2 and a half hours each day, especially with the grueling conditioning drills at the end of practice. He even got the chance to use his big soccer foot to be the teams kicker.

(to enjoy a bigger slideshow of pictures! click here)

Brooklyn's Soccer Fall 2008

2008-10-21T21:10:00.000-07:00

My baby girl is growing up and getting to be quite the good little soccer player. She joined a competitive team this year and is experiencing some good games. Especially since her team is playing against teams a year older than hers. The fall season is almost over (last game on Saturday) and then she'll play indoor league.
My does time fly.
(to enjoy a bigger slideshow of pictures! click here)

Reba and Kelly Concert

2008-10-12T16:56:00.001-07:00

Mom's night out! My sister Becky scored some sweet tickets to the Reba and Kelly concert last thursday down at BSU. The seats were facing the stage straight-on and the music sounded great. I wasn't quite sure how they were going to mix country and rock music in a concert but it turned out awesome. Thanks Becky for the night out I had a blast.

Fishin' with Grandpa!

2008-10-05T17:30:00.000-07:00

Keaton,Bridger and I all went fishing with my Dad (Papa Pickett) last week.
Mason and Brooklyn then went with him thursday and friday.
One thing is for sure it is always an adventure taking little ones fishing.
I even caught a couple fish, I forgot how fun that is.... we then had a fish fry with the trout that was caught...yum... I love the way my Dad cooks it up.

Pumpkin patch

2008-09-28T17:08:00.000-07:00

'Tis the season for Pumpkins.
We went on our Pickett family tradition to go pick some pumpkins.
We all go on a hay ride through the pumpkin patch. Grandma and Grandpa Pickett usually get each of the kids a pumpkin of their choice.

This year they added a little animal petting farm. Everyone enjoyed getting together and not to mention going for pizza afterwards.

(to enjoy a bigger slideshow of pictures! click here)

Sara Evans Concert... SWEET!

2008-09-14T14:12:00.000-07:00

I went to the Sara Evans concert on Friday with my girlfriends and family. It was at the outdoor amphitheater and was a really fun time. I loved sitting with friends and enjoying the music. Boy, can us girls dance and shake it!

(to enjoy a bigger slideshow of pictures! click here)

Keaton is 5 years old!

2008-09-14T13:57:00.000-07:00

It is hard to believe that Keaton is 5. We had a nice party/BBQ in the park with family on Sunday to celebrate and then on Wednesday we took him and a few of his friends to Chuck E. Cheese for games and lunch. Stay sweet Keaton, we love you so much! Thank you for all the big squeezes!

September 11 and "12th"

2008-09-12T08:40:00.000-07:00

Usually I leave the bloggin up to Jill, but I just want to intervene here a moment.
Today is September 12th, 7 years ago on September 11th America was attacked.
On September 12th of that same year people acted a little differently than on the 11th. We were nicer to each other, more polite, we gave more hugs and kisses, we appreciated things more. Even if you didn't know someone you were still coming together as a nation.

Now as I look around and you hardly hear or see anything about 9/11 on the news, it amazes me how quickly people forget. We should never forget what occurred on 9/11 and what a tragic day that was.... but we also need to remember how we reacted on 9/12. If we could only be a nation pulling together.... what a difference it would be...
Thanks Jill for letting me post something.
Love, Brandon