Higbee Happenings

Katie & Wil

2011-07-25T00:56:00.002-06:00

Here is a movie I made of Katie and Wil. I hope you like it! Happy Wedding Day!

Mission update

2011-06-27T17:58:00.000-06:00

Stadium of Fire!!

2011-04-12T22:11:00.002-06:00

Chris entered the Stadium of Fire Talent Contest on a whim at the encouragement of some friends and made it into the top 40 out of 500 submissions. He's singing with his friend Brian Clark. If you've ever seen Chris perform you've probably seen Brian by his side. They were in Young Ambassadors together (Brian is the one Chris crashed into and broke his leg 1 week before our wedding), they were 2 of the 4 guys in "Forever Plaid", they did their Senior Project at BYU together, and Brian was the Javert to Chris' Valjean in one of Chris' favorite shows to ever do (Brian actually went on to play Javert in the Broadway touring company of Les Miserables). I could go on and on... the two are awesome together and we love Brian!! If they make it to the top 3 they get to perform at Stadium of Fire in front of 65,000+ people with David Archuletta and Brad Paisley... FUN!! The next phase of the contest is determined by popular vote and the competition is super stiff. We thought this would be amateurs with home videos but most of them are actually professional music videos and promos! That means they are real groups with fans and everything!! We feel like the underdogs and need to rally some extra support. Could you please take a second to go here and vote for video #37? It really only takes about 30 seconds... I promise. You can vote for three DIFFERENT videos per computer, or just vote for Chris =). If you have more than 1 browser you can vote from those as well. This isn't one of those vote every day contests, thank goodness, so we don't need to worry about people with crazy friends and family just sitting there voting all day every day. Voting ends FRIDAY!! You don't have to live in Utah to vote so send away!! We are so grateful for the support of our friends and family over the years and appreciate you taking the time to help Chris get into the top 25!! THANKS FOR VOTING!!!!

Katie & Emma's Showcase Dance Recital May 21, 2010!

2010-06-11T11:29:00.005-06:00

Katie and Emma are cousins that are 14 years apart but it was fun that they could be in the same dance recital. Emma has been taking for one year and Katie has been taking at Showcase for 16 years. This is her last year. There were 7 seniors that have pretty much danced together for at least 10 years. Katie has been there the longest. They did a video presentation of these girls. It was really fun to see how much they have grown up with dance. It has become Katie's whole life. I really appreciate the teachers and the life lessons that Katie, Brooke and now Emma will be able to learn. Thanks Jeana, Cassie and Tewa for all your love and support of my girls!

Katie & Emma's Showcase Dance Recital

2010-06-11T11:18:00.000-06:00

Alec's 5th Grade Wax Museum

2010-06-11T11:12:00.003-06:00

In the 5th grade each student chooses a dead American Hero and dresses up like them in a living wax museum. Alec went as John Hancock one of the signers of the Declaration of Independence. He had to write a report on him and then dress up like him. I love his costume! He is the only one with a paper wig! It rocks! Alec's friend Hayden Hargraves went as George Washington.

Katie's Seminary Graduation

2010-06-11T11:05:00.003-06:00

Katie Graduated with a 4 year certificate from Seminary! The Stake President asked her to speak at Seminary Graduation. Katie was really scared but did an amazing job. She explained the mission of Seminary and why it's important as a member of the church. I think it's awesome because at one time Katie wanted to quit seminary and said that it wasn't important. I know that she's glad she stayed and had a really great experience!

Happy Birthday Brooke & Katie

2010-06-11T10:58:00.003-06:00

Katie and Brooke both celebrated birthday's in May. Katie turned 18 and Brooke turned 22! Wow someone's getting old!

More about Saratoga Splash

2010-06-11T10:38:00.003-06:00

PS...

Yes, please come! We've worked really hard on this event and it's sure to be a blast in spite of the weather. I was in charge of all the entertainment so swing by the carnival and say hi to me... I'll be at the stage ALL DAY!

Also, Max and Abby are both competing in 'Saratoga's Got Talent'. They could really use a good cheering section!! It is on the main stage at 5:00 and should only be about 30-45 minutes.

You won't want to miss the main concert either. It's going to be great... and it's FREE!! It starts at 8:00 pm and features Eclipse... you'll love them!! Please bring friends and family and come enjoy a night under the stars with great music. (Concert will be moved to Westlak High School if the weather is not cooperative).

Last, but not least, please pray for great weather and send warm thoughts this direction. This event was rained out last year and it was so hard to see all my work go to waste. I believe in miracles and the power of our family so please help me out here!! I'd love to see my event go off without a hitch this year!

Love,

Katie

Congratulations Katie!

2010-06-11T08:00:00.002-06:00

Katie finally graduated on May 27, 2010 from Lehi High School. She was a Drill Team Officer, Dance Co. Choreographer, she was Seminary President, she had a cumulative 3.987 gpa and was ranked #10 in her class. She also did a lot of volunteer work outside of school. She was a Local Hero and a Special Needs Mutual Counselor.
We are so proud of her. Katie will be attending UVU in the fall.

Saratoga Splash

2010-06-11T07:40:00.003-06:00

Hi Everyone,

I would like to invite everyone that lives here in Saratoga to come and run/walk or cheer on family at the Saratoga Splash 5k on Saturday June 12, 2010.

It's at 7:00 am at the Sunrise Meadows Park.

Please Come it will be really fun to have everyone there.

There is a Breakfast after the race at the Sunrise Meadows Park at 8:00 am and the Parade will follow at 10:00.

I think this would be a really fun tradition for our family and we could support the events committee and all their hard work! Thanks Katie:)

On Saturday Night Brooke will be handing out CD's and doing some advertising for her new Salon Dreamz in Lehi. If any of you would like to come help it would be greatly appreciated. The concert is at 8:00 at the Harvest Hills Park.

Hope to see you there!

Love,
Karen

Arianna's Cross Country

2010-05-16T20:02:00.008-06:00

(Hi this is Arianna, my mom wanted me to write about this...)This school year I started doing Cross Country. I've really enjoyed it, and I'm now starting Track and Field. I started doing Cross Country, because my mom recommended it after experiencing it herself at my age. Thanks mom!

Kylan's 1 year old Pictures

2010-05-10T10:20:00.006-06:00

We took pictures of Kylan with his baby hair before we cut it.

He's a big boy that's 1 year old!

Great Aunt Katie took all of these pictures!

Thanks Katie you are amazing!

Happy Mothers Day Mom

2010-05-09T16:03:00.003-06:00

Dear Mom,
I just want to tell you how much you mean to me and how amazing you are. I love and am really amazed by all of your talents. I hope that you know that because of you I feel like I can be the person that I am. You have helped me to realize that doing what you want in life isn't easy if it's worth it. I am so lucky to have such an example to follow. I hope with all my heart that your day is happy. I know from experience that Mothers Day isn't all that it's expected to be when you have young children. I know that I wasn't always the best to let you know what you mean to me and I didn't always know how hard it was to be a mom. I know now and I want you to know that I appreciate all that you did to make our lives as happy as they were. I had an amazing childhood and I was so lucky to be able to do all the things I got to do. Thankyou for giving me the gift of curiosity. I love learning because of you. I love to read because of you. I love good music, art and beautiful things because of you. I love Shakespear because of you. I love movies because of you. I remember the days that we spent at the cabin and you teaching me the things that you learned as a young girl in a cabin and I always felt special because you were special. I love the way Dad loves you and lets you be the person you are. I love the way you love Dad and accept him and try to support him all that he does.
Thanks Mom!
Hope that your day is happy!
Love,
Karen

Kylan's Birthday Bash! May 8, 2010

2010-05-09T15:37:00.006-06:00

Kylan's 1st Birthday was quite something! The weather was nice earlier in the day but got really windy and cold in the afternoon. He was a little tiered and fell asleep. We stayed at the Eagle Park in Saratoga Springs until about 5:oo. Some of you had to leave after 2 hours and didn't get to have cake. It was really amazing and we are sorry you had to miss it. We had enough food to feed an army of Brazilians but only half of them showed up. We would like to thank all of our family that came and tell you all that we love you! Thanks Katie for these amazing pictures you took. What would we do without you! All photography was done by "Kate Higbee Photography".

Kylans 1st Birthday Bash!

2010-04-29T15:25:00.004-06:00

Come to Kylan's 1st Birthday Party!

When: May 8th

Where: Kylan's Grandma & Grandpa Webb's

Time: 2:00 until partied out!

RSVP: by Friday May 7 call Karen
Please come celebrate this momenteous occasion with all of Kylans family and friends!

US Rugby Association Invitation to Tyler

2010-04-25T19:08:00.005-06:00

A little over a week ago, Tyler received an official invitation from the US Rugby Association to join the first official US National Rugby team. Ostensibly, HBO is preparing a documentary of this historic process. Once on the team, Tyler will be eligible to try out for the first Olympic team fielded by the US. Today, Sunday April 25, Tyler was invited by the trainer for the San Diego Chargers to workout with the team to help him prepare for his Rugby experience.

Family Reunion

2010-04-12T13:48:00.003-06:00

(all images from 2008 reunion)

Yeah for camping!!

Keeping Cool in the Pool!!

All Aboard!

Soccer Champs.

Mom and Dad are planning a super fun "unofficial" family reunion for this summer and wanted to get the info out so you all could plan. Please note the "unofficial" status of this event. We decided as a family to have a big reunion every other summer and a small one on the off years. This would be an off year so, while we would really LOVE to have as many people there as we can, no one should feel obligated to participate. The hope of this post is to 1. let you know what is planned 2. get your feedback and 3. figure out who will be there. So please look at the schedule below and discuss it with your families. Let us know if there is anything else you think we should add (or anything we should remove) and, MOST IMPORTANT, email me at kthigbee@yahoo.com if you will be there. Thanks for getting back to us fast so we can proceed with arrangements. We look forward to seeing all of you there!

Tuesday (July 20) check in to campground (American Fork Canyon)

Wednesday (July 21) Camping

Thursday (July 22) Camping

Friday am (July 23) check out of campground, go home, unpack, clean up, etc.

2:00-4:00 Indoor Soccer at the Compound in Lindon

4:00-5:00 BBQ at the Compound in Lindon

5:00-9:00 Swimming at the Compound in Lindon

Saturday (Pioneer Day) Keeping it open to celebrate. BUT... possible things we could all do together are swimming at the SS Pool, Boating, Lunch or Dinner at the Pavilion, Movies, Fireworks and Firepit??? Any other thoughts? This would really be a low key day.

Sunday (July 25) all attend church together in Saratoga Springs

Luncheon/dinner

Family Pictures (right after church while everyone is still dressed up)

Should be a BLAST! Hope to see you all there!

2010-03-25T15:44:00.003-06:00

Come support Katie in her debut with the World Renound Ririe Woodbury Dance Company at their annual fundraiser. It's a "Cabaret of Fools." The cost is $75.00 ($50.00 is tax deductable). It is going to be held on Saturday April 3rd from 6:30 to 11:00. Dinner will be served along with some amazing entertainment. You can visit the website to register http://www.ririewoodbury.com/. Check out the entertainment from last year. It's awesome!

Thanks!

Karen

Stake Conference March 2010

2010-03-24T18:36:00.002-06:00

I really enjoyed Stake Conference. I was only able to go to the adult session on Saturday night but it was really good. I just wanted to give everyone a brief synopsis of the speakers and the topics.

The first speaker was President Brown he's the president of the Mt. Timpanogas Temple. His talk was on "Teaching our Children about Ordinances". He said that an "Ordinance is a sacred ceremony entered into with God." He talked about the 4 major ordinances that we participate in. They are found in the 4th Article of Faith

Baptism
Laying on of hands for the gift of the Holy Ghost
Prophets are called of God
Ordinance of the Sacrament

He said that, "God promises to forgive our sins if we promise to honor our covenants." He explained that, "Through ordinances God endows his people with power." And that,"Through ordinances people learn of the priesthood." He explained that the temple is something like the "Book of Mormon" that is a living book of scripture. When we go to the temple we are like investigators and that we must go often to understand the fullness of the ordinances that are performed there. He ended with a quote by President Packard, "If we keep our covenants that our life is like a movie and we know how the movie ends."

The second speaker was Pres. Dortch the 2nd councillor in the Stake Presidency. I always love his talks. He often speaks of when he was a boy growing up and I love those stories. His topic was on "Because we have agency bad things happen." He said that he was reading in Revelations 11-13 and he asked himself why do bad things happen if God loves us? He also explained that maybe he was naive but that he had never met an evil person. He said that sometimes we are stuck around the corner and can't see. We need the patience and faith of the Saints to be able to see from beginning to the end. Elder Maxwell said, "We are never at home in time...we belong to eternity... time whispers to us that we are strangers here." Life is a hammer shaping us and we are the anvil. Time will heal but it's a slow process and eventually end up killing all of it's patients. Patience and Faith-the more we use them the less we need them. Our perspective will broad until we see the veil.

The 3rd speaker was Pres. Server the 1st councillor in the Stake Presidency. His topic was on "Be the best we can be!" He quoted the 10th Article of Faith and talked about how we can an "Enoch like Stake". He said if we read in D&C 105:5 and changed "Zion" to "we" or "I" we could understand what we need to do. He explained that when we have troubles with our children all we can do is be the best we can be and be Zion like in our approach and use the spirit of the Lord. He said that when we have marital problems we should ask our selves,

Am I living worthily?
Is my heart soft?
Have I really done all that I can do?

All of our problems are spiritual in nature and we need to remain humble and teachable so we can feel the spirit. We need to change and receive the spirit as taught in Isaiah 4. He then showed the "Building up of Zion" video. It is based on some talks and it is really good. I don't know how to post it but if someone else does would you please put it up so everyone can watch it. It's really good.

The 4th speaker was Chris Anderson the Executive Secretary to Pres. Wilkinson. He bore his testimony on going to the temple to find the answers that we seek.

The 5th speaker was Allison Wilkinson President Wilkinson's wife. She bore her testimony about renewing our love of the scriptures. She also testified that the talks the prepared here are done so because it is what the Lord wants us to hear.

The 6th and final speaker was President Wilkinson. His topic was on "Why did God command us to get married?" He explained that there is no better way to teach us to be like God. There is no better way for us to be happy. Sister Hinkley said, "I think that for any marriage to be successful you have to be fiercely loyal, I think that's what happened to us." He showed a graphic of a bulls eye and explained that in the center there is a triangle and at the top is God and on the right side is husband and on the left side is wife. He said that we should be seeking the center of the bulls eye. On the 2nd ring there are children, parents, siblings and friends. On the 3rd ring there is play, church callings, work, co-workers, Internet. We should guard that bulls eye and not let anyone else into it. Don't be tempted to let children, parents and siblings into our center of the bulls eye. Our children will find their own center of the bulls eye on their own. We shouldn't be at our church callings more than 2 nights a week. He talked about the date night fireside that Matt Townsend spoke at and how he talked about how a marriage is in trouble when it is Starved of any of these things:

Saftey
Trust
Appreciation
Respect
Validation
Encouragement
Dedication

He then said, "STARVED people turn into the Natural men and women." He asked us to do a "Companions Inventory" once a week like missionaries do. We only should bring up one thing each to be "fixed". He also said to be like the Anti-Nephi-Lehi's and to bury our "weapons of war." Our weapons are pride and anger. Honor our covenants that we have made in the temple.

If anyone else has comments or was at the Sunday session I would love to hear your thoughts about it since I was unable to attend.

Love you all!

Karen

Come see Chris, Katie, Jaremy and Aaron (and a few other people) on Stage!!

2010-02-03T23:02:00.003-07:00

It's time for the 2nd Annual Syd Riggs Scholarship Showcase and it's shaping up to be even better than last year. I've included all the publicity information below. If you want tickets, get them quick... this is SURE to sell out. Hope to see you all there!

"Wicked, Les Miserables, Rent, West Side Story, The Secret Garden, Lion King, Fiddler on the Roof…A showcase of popular musical theater featuring some of Utah’s finest talent! Hosted by award winning recording artist, Jenny Jordan Frogley.

ONE NIGHT ONLY!!!
Saturday, February 6th
Two performances-6:00 and 8:30
Orem High School, Elison Auditorium (175 S. 400 E. Orem) Arrive early for parking!
$10.00 general admission, $15.00 reserved-All proceeds will go to the Syd Riggs scholarship. Tickets can be purchased in person or over the phone through the Orem High School financial office 801-227-8765 ext 252

The cast includes more than 100 of Utah’s finest performers, most former students and friends of Riggs, who are all donating their time and talents. Professional credits include: film, television, Broadway, national and international tours, commercial and print, recording, dance companies, cruise ship and theme park entertainment. The performance will also feature a performance by current Orem High School theater students.

This year’s show will also be a tribute and farewell to the Elison Auditorium as the reconstruction of the high school will be complete this coming spring.

Syds Riggs passed away unexpectedly on June 18, 2005. Thousands in Utah and beyond have seen and enjoyed her shows. Riggs worked on shows for Hale Center Theater, Sundance Summer Theater, Provo Theater Company, Thanksgiving Point, The Playmill Theater, Promised Valley Playhouse, Backstage Theater, SCERA Center for the Arts, Brigham Young University, Utah Valley University, and Orem High School to name a few. She directed hundreds of plays and musicals in her career and was a beloved teacher at Orem High School for more than 15 years."

Kylan's 1st Santa Visit!

2010-01-29T16:23:00.002-07:00

We had a visit from Santa at our Ward Christmas Party so I invited Renata and Kylan to come with us. Alec discovered that you are definately the most popular boy in the room when you have a really cute baby that you are carrying around. Kylan was so cute and sweet that everyone fell in love with him even Santa. I know that he and Alec were very good boys because Santa brought them a lot of stuff for Christmas!

Happy 77th Birthday Dad!

2010-01-29T16:17:00.002-07:00

For all of you who couldn't be at Dad's Birthday it was Awesome! We went to Mom and Dad's to have cake and spend time with the greatest man I know! Dad, you really are amazing to have all these years of wisdom and not one ounce of senility that I can sense. We love you!

Alec Turns 11!

2010-01-29T16:05:00.004-07:00

Alec's Birthday was a lot of fun. We went to 'Jump On It' in Lindon. He invited friends we ate pizza, cake and then went and jumped on every kind of trampoline that you can imagine. There were trampolines on the ground and walls that covered the whole floor. The boys had TONS of fun! One thing I learned is that it's usually best to eat after you jump than before. Wisdom to live by! Another piece of advice, if you've had 4 kids...not a good idea to jump up and down.

Alecs Friends; Gavin, Hayden, Cody, Jake & Caden

Christmas 2010

2010-01-28T20:25:00.021-07:00

This Christmas was one of the most special ones that I can remember ever having. It was filled with kind acts of service and a lot of love. We had a wonderful Christmas Eve at Jolie and Greg's but we missed all of you who couldn't be there. Thank you Jolie, Greg, Jaremy and Alyssa for being so generous. We love you guys! Jolie had a really fun program that ended with Santa leaving Christmas Eve presents on the door step for all the kids and grandkids. We are so lucky to be able to have these opportunities to spend with Mom, Dad and Grandma Goodrich. I hope all of you had the Merriest of Christmases! We love and miss you All!!!

Watch out Dylan, Alyssa's got a new love!

Mike and his golf buddy also known as "My Dad".

Afton with Alyssa's new baby, Bear.

Jolie and Greg take a quick smooch break then it's back to work!

Karen and Mom. I LOVE this picture!

Aaron and his favorite Grandpa.

Jaremy and Cole taking request!

Alec loves Grandma Doris.

Alec and his homey G-pa H!

Jolie and Leisa share a "sister" moment.

Katie you're so Sessy!

Dylan Stoddle and Alyssa share a BIG Christmas smile. Dylan gave Alyssa a cute puppy named "Bear" for Christmas.

Zach, Katie, Abbey, Grandma Doris and Romeo wait patiently for Santa.

Chris and Max are ready to get to the presents!

I think Mike and Matt are both ready for Santa to come. Matt just lets it all hang out!

Afton helps Aunt Jolie tell the Christmas Story.

Abbey and Afton sing a Chirstmas song.

Alec plays "Silent Night" on the guitar.

Afton Grace is part of the show!

Alec snugles with Afton.

Brooke and Mitch enjoy the Christmas Eve program with Cole.

Renata shows off her new headband, a present from her favorite brother Alec!

Josh helps Kylan open his presents on Christmas. I love this picture!

Brooke, Renata and Katie all get vintage purses from Mom.

Katie, Brooke and Alec opening presents on Christmas Morning. It's typical Christmas morning hair going on with these three.

Grandpa Mike is excited about Christmas???

Candy canes are good!
Kylan has his first candy cane.

Kylan loves to eat choclate too!

December? January's almost over???

2010-01-28T18:58:00.022-07:00

I can't believe how fast the holidays went this year and January has gone 2 times as fast. It has been an amazing new year. I never thought I could be so blessed. Josh called and asked his Uncle Greg who is the Bishop of our ward if he could have Kylan blessed on January 3rd. It was a little bit of a crazy start but it really turned out to be an awesome day. Thanks to all of our family and Renata's family that came and stayed. We are so lucky to have so many family members who love us. It was also Alec's 11th birthday (I will post that separate, the pictures are on my other camera). Katie had Region Drill team and guess what they won 1st place over all. It was really amazing and fun. I also worked 4 days a week in the developmental preschool at Saratoga Shores Elementary for a teacher who had her baby. While doing this I started School at UVU. I am taking a class on campus 1 night a week and an online math class. It's about 10 credit hours. It's been a little crazy but I have been really blessed to be able to still be a mom, wife and 2nd councelor in the Primary. My family has been really supportive and I would just like to tell them THANK YOU!
Mike gave a beautiful blessing. Uncles Greg Hill, Chris Webb & Chris Higbee, Cousins Matt & Zac Wilson, Grandpa's Higbee & Webb all were in the circle to bless Kylan.

Renata's Family; (Mom) Eleasir Carzalho, (Uncle) Mesaque Carzalho, (Uncle) Sadraque Carzalho, (friend) Matias.

Kylan & Grandma Ele

Kylan with Grandma & Grandpa Higbee

Kylan with Grandpa Mike

Kylay with Grandpa &Grandma Webb

Katie and Zach Morgan

Amelia Webb & Abbey Higbee

Alyssa & Coleman

Katie's Drill Competition was really fun because they did so well! Katie works really hard along with all her teammates getting up to be at practice every school day and Saturday at 6 am. They also practice after school sometimes. They go to camp, competitions where they placed 1st, 2nd, 4th and 5th, perform at school games and help with the Mascott Bowl that raises money for underpriveliged kids to go Christmas shopping. I am so proud of them and it's nice that all their hard work paid off and they took home the BIG trophy. A BIG THANKS to Brooke, Grandma and Grandpa Higbee and Katie's mom for coming to cheer her on!

Katie & Big Sis Brooke

For their Kick line routine they did almage to the 80's and did a dance to "Maniac" dressed as Jennifer Beals in "Flash Dance". It was cute, fun and AWESOME! Their kicks were kickin'!

Yes that's Katie!

This too!

Dance routine was fabulous with the girls dancing like marionettes.

Their Military Dace was the best of them all. It was very precises and Grandpa said they looked a little angry. I told him that they are in the military and that they had to have their "Game Face" on. This is Katie in a spinning, split headstand.

Katie and Alex Richardson showing off the BIG trophy with their friend from Lehi, Bruce.

2010 Region Champs Baby!

November-A Month to be Thankful For!

2009-12-15T09:55:00.009-07:00

I have had so many things to be thankful for in November. Josh had decided to seek treatment and make his family a priority. Kylan had surgery on his extra thumb and had it removed. We will miss his "digit" and some people might not call him "Black Jack" anymore but we all feel so lucky that the surgery went so well and he was amazing with his recovery. He was more upset about not being able to eat before surgery than he was after his thumb had been removed. He really LOVES to eat though. I am so thankful that Brooke found a job and is getting a regular paycheck to help pay some of the bills that she has. She works so hard at hair school and is now working at Down East so she has 13 hour days now. I can't tell you how proud we are of her and want you all to know that she has found her calling in life and it is hair! We had a really nice Thanksgiving dinner at the Webb's. I was so grateful that I could have my whole family in one place at the same time. I made them hurry up and take a picture. They were nice enough to indulge me. I and so thankful for my cute daughter-in-law. She is trying so hard to figure out how to take care of Kylan, Josh and most of all herself. I hope that you all get a chance to get to know her. I am most thankful for my wonderful husband who has worked so hard to be the provider, husband, father and now grandfather to our family.

Kits for Jaremy (Part 2)

2009-11-24T16:20:00.003-07:00

Thanks for your donations everyone!! As a family we raised $450.00... enough for about 55 kits. I have purchased most of the supplies and need just a few more things that I plan to get tonight.

Remember you are all invited to Jolie's house THIS Saturday at 12:00 noon to help put them together. It is a quick and easy project and should take less than an hour. Remember that many hands make light work. Also, it will be fun for you all to see what your money did and have a chance to give Jaremy a big hug. We look forward to seeing you there.

We are up to 80 kits total and still need 50 more. If you know of any groups that are looking for a project please direct them to me. Also, to those of you who have blogs and facebook... can you please link to Jaremy's blog so we can try and get even more people involved? I put it out there and got a few more donations... imagine if we all did that!! Call me if you need help with linking, etc.

Thanks again for all your support!

Katie's Senior Pictures

2009-11-21T20:01:00.007-07:00

Katie Higbee took all these amazing pictures for Katie. She took a variety of shots in different locations. Katie had a blast and Katie Higbee is an AMAZING photographer. Thanks Katie for your talent. I hope that you become famous!

What a WEEK!

2009-11-21T19:39:00.003-07:00

I just thought I would update you all about Josh. He is doing amazingly well. He has decided that he really wants to get better for real. Josh went to the County Drug intake and filled out all the paperwork to get into the County Drug rehab unit but it will take about a month. I hope that he can last. He saw a Dr. that specializes in drug rehabilitation and got on a medication that helps a lot of recovering addicts. It's called Cyboxin. I know that he has tried similar things in the past so I hope that this is for real. He also is doing community service and going to the 12 step program. He got so much done this week that it's amazing that he can do that when he is sober. He even went to the Doctor with Renata to see about having Kylans extra thumb removed. It is happening on Tuesday November 24th. I haven't seen Josh like this in 4 years! I am still cautiously optimistic but really pretty encouraged by his progress. He is doing EVERYTHING he is supposed to do for the first time since his first hospital stay only this time he is really clear about things. Renata seems to be a little intimidated by his getting well. I think she might feel that if he is better maybe he won't love her. It is very frustrating to watch her act crazy. I wish that she would just give this a try and it is a real challenge for me to keep my patience with her and to try to help Josh to be kind to her. I see so many self destructive things in their relationship. I am concerned that it is Renata's Birthday and that she wants to go party with her friends. I hope that she will see how stupid that is but I just don't know if she will. I see how she can be sometimes but she has so much insecurity and baggage that I hope that she can overcome what she needs to. Kylan needs them both so much and I worry that they will never grow up and put him first. They are both such self centered people. I just keep praying and trying to love and support without enable them and it is a hard place to be. I don't know what tomorrow will bring but for today I am truly grateful to have my son back!

I love you all and am so grateful for you support.

Karen

Kits for Jaremy

2009-11-16T14:03:00.003-07:00

Most of you know about what Jaremy is doing out in Mississippi. If you don't you should visit his blog, Jaremy's Journey, and get caught up. The school Jaremy teaches at is located in the lowest performing school district in the lowest performing state in the nation. Most of his students come from the poorest of circumstances and hope for much better. They can not afford to buy their own and when Jaremy supplies them they don't seem to make it back to class. I am currently organizing a few different groups that are putting together supply kits for each one of Jaremy's students (130 total) and was hoping we could get the Higbee family, Jaremy's family, involved. I have talked to Jaremy and identified the basic supplies needed to help him teach these students better. We are going to put the supplies together into kits that will stay in the class room for use there. Our hope is that this project will not only supply the kids with things they need to learn, but also show them that there are people out there that care about their success.

We have already put together a few kits and found that each one costs about $10.00. My hope is that every member of the Higbee family will sponser 1 student by donating enough money to purchase the supplies for 1 kit. I know that money is tight for most of us, but think of what you could give up this month in order to help with this project: 1 lunch at Cafe Rio, one night out at the movies, I'm sure we can all think of one thing we can skip this month. I know, I'm starting to sound like one of those infomercials 'for the cost of just one cup of coffee a day you can feed an entire village'. Anyway...If every member of the J. Marvin Higbee were to do this we could provide about 70 kits for Jaremy's students... that's over half!! Isn't that awesome?

So, if you feel like you can help out in anyway please send the money to me at my house by next Monday. That isn't a lot of time so get on it! We will go buy the supplies and then everyone is welcome to come help put the kits together on Saturday the 28th at 12:00 noon at Jolie's. It's gonna be a blast... I hope you will all help out as you can. We have been working on this with my side of the family. We gave up the family Christmas gift exchange and are instead giving that money to this project. We have collected $230.00 and are purchasing the supplies this afternoon and putting them together next week. And these people only know Jaremy through me... if they can do it so can we. Let's do it!!

(Please forward this email to all of the members of your family... it only goes to mom and dad and the eight kids... let's get the word out there. thanks)

Josh...the Second Act

2009-11-15T19:21:00.004-07:00

Well things did not go as I had hoped. Josh is really good at acting normal. The Psychologist and Psychiatrist at the hospital released him on Friday at 10:00 am where he then went to his Grandma & Grandpa Webb's. He was visibly anxious but saying that he was just fine and did not need to go to detox any more. I was very frustrated because the hospital and his Wasatch case manager had told me that they were trying to get him released into a detox unit to get some more help. Well that is because it is Friday and there must be some unsaid rule that they will release unstable people from the hospital because it is the weekend and they all must get off early so they don't have to deal with it. By 3:00 pm Josh was in full "Panic Attack" mode. I called his case manager and he had gone home so I called Crisis and they were gone for the weekend because I guess that no one has a breakdown on Friday at 3:00 pm. We were really worried that Josh was going to take off to find drugs or hurt himself. Mike drove around with Josh trying to talk some sense into him for about 3 hours. Once again I am so grateful that he was home this week. Josh is harder for me because he seems to be so angry with me when he is like this. Mike finally talked him into going back to his grandparents. They have been so great to help Josh. I was worried that he might do something at their house but if it is just him there he seems to be just fine. Maybe because they have so few things to stimulate him at their house, they don't even have a computer. On Saturday Mike found an inpatient drug rehab place that he and Josh went to check out. His case manager had promised that Josh would be able to go into Foothill and get into the county program but the weekend came and well he is a government employee after all. If you want to know how bad our health care will be if we get the bill passed that Pres. Obama has it just scares me to think that we would be in the hands that Josh has been in for the past 4 years with people who just do their JOB and go home on the weekend not caring for the people and families that are in crisis. They don't do anything until the person is so sick that they are trying to kill themselves and others then they intervene and release them in less that 5 days! The place Mike found is a good place but it is very expensive and Josh can go into the county program for free. We are frustrated because we just want someone to help him and the people that are supposed to be doing that have really not cared all that much! We have to wait until Monday so that he can check with his case manager and see if it is okay that he go somewhere else. Josh is doing okay but Mike is leaving on Monday for 10 days and Josh's situation is still not resolved. I hope that we can figure out how to help him and Pray that he will choose not to give in to the illnesses that he fights every day. I just don't know why it is so hard to help someone when they are really sick! I don't know what tomorrow will bring but I hope it is some real help for Josh and some peace for my family.

Thankyou for all your prayers and love! We really appreciate and are so grateful for our families.

We love you all!
Love,
Karen

My son Josh

2009-11-10T15:06:00.003-07:00

Dear Family,
I don't know how many of you read the blog but I thought it would be a better way to let you all know about Josh. First of all many of you know the struggle that Josh has had for the past 4 years. Unfortunately he has made some choices that have created sickness instead of health for him when he was faced with some really hard things. When Dallas left him I think you all know that he chose to turn to drugs to deal with his heartbreak and had a serious breakdown and ended up in the hospital for 30 days. He was then court committed to Wasatch Mental Health to help him with his recovery. Josh never could get the hang of being honest with dealing with his pain. He always chose to escape into drugs and alcohol. He has been in Jail more times that I can count on my 2 hands. He ended up having all of his charges moved to Mental Health court a year and a half ago. He has not been totally drug or alcohol free for about 4 years. The last time he ended up in Jail his now wife Renata Mizuni came to tell me she was pregnant with his child. At the time Josh denied that the baby was his. He denied it up until Kylan was born and there was no doubt that he was his son. I think Josh knows that he is a terrible father but he chooses to run to drugs so that he doesn't have to face the fears that he has. He did marry Renata and claim Kylan as his own. For a while he really seemed to be doing better. That is what we all thought. He was getting more and more abusive to Renata and doing more and more drugs. Yesterday November 9th Josh showed up at our house very suicidal, violent and paranoid. We were not home at the time. He called me and was completely out of his mind and was destroying our house. Mike was closer to home than I was so he got there first. Josh not only tried to kill himself but also his dad. We called the police and Crisis. They came and "pink slipped" him (involuntary commitment) into the hospital. He is there now and hopefully will be for 30 days. He was 2 weeks from getting out of Mental Health court. It is a good thing that this happened now because he will hopefully get the treatment that he needs. Just pray that he will choose to take the opportunity to try to salvage some of the good things in his life. I wanted to let you all know because last time I had a $500.00 phone bill. There really isn't anything anyone can do but pray for him. This might be his last chance. So PLEASE Pray...

We are all doing pretty well. The kids were not here at the time and so they didn't have to deal with this yet again. Mike has taken it pretty hard and he has a few cuts and bruises from holding Josh down until the Police got there but he is okay just a little angry and broken hearted. I am continuing to work the system to try to find some way of reaching him. I want you all to know that Kylan is okay. Renata is not so well but maybe this is a good wake-up call for her to get her life in order. My kids are a little tired and numb from hearing and talking about Josh. He consumes so much time and energy in our home. So if we are a little weary of this it's just because we know that there is no instant fix and that this is going to take a really long time.

Life moves on and so must we. Josh will have to figure this out. We love him but he is on his own. I think that it is best for all of us. If you haven't read the book the "Soloist" (the movie is not as good, too Disney) read it and you will have a little understanding of what it is like to live with someone with a mental Illness. We miss the Josh that we all used to know but that Josh is gone and this new one is unpredictable and unsafe. We are learning to live with the fact that we may only see brief glimpses of the old version of our son and brother. I hope that in time we can learn to love and accept this new Josh.

I will keep you updated on the blog. I would really appreciate it if when you call you could ask about Brooke, who is only 4 months away from being a full fledged hairstylist and she is fantastic especially with color. Katie who is learning to become a strong independent young woman and having the time of her life her Senior year of high school and Alec who is the joy and light of our home.

I am so grateful for my family and I feel so blessed that you all love and care about me so much. I hope that this will put your minds at ease knowing that all that can be done is being done and that we are going to be okay.

I love you all!
Love,
Karen

October Fun!

2009-11-03T11:21:00.018-07:00

October was a really fun month filled with all kinds of activities. Football, awards banquets, Alec's guitar and piano recital, Josh's birthday, Cornbelly's, Lagoon Frightmares and best of all Halloween. It was a really fun month but it makes me tired to think of all the things we did in October I think I'm glad it's November. I wish you all could have been here to go to Jolies for a delicious Chicken Chilly dinner or to Marvins for Family Home Evening where he gave a beautiful lesson on Forgiveness. We miss you all but hope your October was a fun filled one. This is just my family but I would love to see all of the cute costumes and things your family has done. Just post a picture or two in only takes a minute.

Katie is dressed up as a dark Farie or a witch. I don't know what but she has a tu-tu and that is the main point of her costume. When I asked Zach Morgan, Katie's boyfriend, what he was he said he was a "Brown Kid".

Alec went to Cornbelly's at Thanksgiving Point with Kaylee and Mallory Madsen and a friend of Mallory's on Halloween day. It was so much fun and not too crowded. We played games, went throught the Beast and made it through the corn maze.Renata and Josh brought Kylan to our house to
go Trick-or-Treating with Alec for his first Halloween. Kylan wore Alec's Costume he wore for his first Halloween.

Kylan and Alec are ready to hit the Trick-or-Treat scene!

Alec was a "Dead Slash" the guitar player from "Guns and Roses". Slash is Alec's nick name!

Alec got the Outstanding Offensive player award for his team. His coach said that they couldn't have played as well with out his leadership. He was Offensive Team Captain.

Alec had his first Piano Recital. He played three songs, Alouette (a French folk song), Ode to Joy by Beethoven and a song that he composed himself called The Beautiful Destiny. We were so proud of him! He has only been playing for one year and he is doing great!

Mike, Alec and I had a really fun time at Lagoon Frightmares! We got to ride some of the fun rides and go through the spook alley's that they have at Halloween.

Katie and Alex Richardson got all spooked out for their Senior Dance "Thriller" at the last Lehi home football game of the season. It was really spooky!

Josh had his 25th birthday this October 16th! Yes Josh is 25 but funny thing is so am I. We went to a movie and then went as a family to Goodwood to celebrate Josh's Birthday.

Baby Kylan

2009-11-01T14:48:00.003-07:00

When Kylan was about 6 weeks old we had a photo shoot with him and Renata. Karen assisted. It was so fun and he was so cute. He has changed so much since then so I am glad we caught these images of him while he was still so teeny-tiny. What a sweet little baby... and what a wonderful addition to the family!

And just for good measure: because I have NEVER

had a baby pee so much in one photo shoot!

Jaremy's Going Away Party

2009-11-01T14:29:00.005-07:00

Before Jaremy left for Mississippi, Jolie and Greg had everyone over for desserts and some fun around the fire pit. We also had an opportunity to go around the room and tell Jaremy our memories of him and wish him well on his adventure. Of course, we also watched the "Last f the Mohicans" DVD, courtesy of Karen. That just gets funnier every time we see it. These are just a few of the pictures I took (I tried to get everyone). It was so fun to spend time with Jaremy before he left.

Remember to follow Jaremy's adventures at

jaremysjourney.blogspot.com

Lehi High School Graduate

2009-11-01T14:23:00.002-07:00

Even though Alyssa is well into her first semester of college, I wanted to make sure we got her graduation noted here on the family blog. We had a super quick photo shoot as she was running off for the festivities. It was the worst time of day for pictures, really windy and super hot, but we got some cute shots. Here are 3 of my favorite.Alyssa is such a cute girl! I'm sure I speak for all of you when I tell her how proud we are of her. She is an excellent example in our family and a joy to be around. We all wish you the best, Alyssa!!

Alyssa's Prom Pictures

2009-10-24T21:31:00.003-06:00

A long, long time ago... Alyssa went to her Senior Prom. She looked so beautiful that her mom asked me to come take some pictures. We were kind of rushed so they didn't turn out great, but she DID look beautiful so I though I'd share some with you.

Her dashing date Dylan.

Her very proud parents.

This is what Jaremy and Aaron did to my beautiful baby girl while I was taking picture.

I guess that's what cousins are for.

I was just happy there was any hair there for them to work with.

Fun with Grandma

2009-10-23T20:39:00.005-06:00

(This post is dedicated to Karen)

The Saturday before Easter Grandma got the available grandkids together and decorated sugar cookies and eggs. They all had so much fun and we all enjoyed the cookies for dessert at Easter dinner. We all decided that we want to make this an annual tradition so mark your calendars for next year!

Alec's 1st Guitar Recital

2009-10-14T17:44:00.004-06:00

Alec with his guitar teacher Jerry Cortez
Alec's Gene Simmons impersonation.

A born star!

Alec has been playing the guitar and the piano for about a year. He is really starting to take off. I think the most important thing is that he loves it! He thinks his teacher is awesome. It was fun to see how much progress he is making.

Golf Can Be Good for the Soul!

2009-10-14T17:31:00.004-06:00

Mike and I took a short trip to St. George just the two of us. We haven't taken a trip alone that didn't include work or kids and family in about 2 years. We didn't know if we should leave or if we could leave. Things were a little tense before we left and Mike insisted that we needed to do this. After a few tense phone calls we turned our phones off and just enjoyed the amazing scenery that Southern Utah has to offer. Being on a golf course with no other distractions and just Mike and I in a cart for 4 to 8 hours (depending on how many holes we played) was the best therapy we could ask for. Not to mention driving 4 hours away from everything that stresses our relationship was great! It was amazing how much we enjoyed ourselves. We promised that we would never let so much time and so many things get in the way of our relationship.

Katie & Zack go to Homecoming 2009

2009-10-06T10:21:00.004-06:00

Homecoming 2009 at Lehi High School was filled with pep rallies, tailgate parties, a football game (they lost big surprise) and best of all the Homecoming Dance! Katie went with her boyfriend Zack Morgan. He went to the Beach House with us. They have been dating since May. He is such a gentle man and chose his outfit to coordinate with Katie's dress. They looked incredible together. It was fun to look for this dress with Katie. She decided that the 3 inch heels that she is wearing would cripple her and so she had to take a pair of flat sandals for the actual dance.

This is because she had a big sister that gave her the right kind of advice, "Don't spend too much on your dress, buy awesome shoes and always take a spare for the dance!" Brooke is a good big sister to have. She has all the answers. Katie and Zack had about 76 kids in their group. It was huge!! They went to a place called Noah's and all the moms made something for their dinner to contribute. Katie and Zack said it was the funnest dance that they had ever been to. For Zack it was his first official "Date Dance".

Sisters in Zion (Saratoga Springs)

2009-10-06T10:09:00.003-06:00

Sisters in Zion that attended; Suzanne Clawson, Aubrie Huggard, Afton Wilson, Leisa Higbee, Karen Webb, Ethelynn Higbee, Alyssa Hill, Jolie Hill (Katie Higbee not pictured).
The Relief Society General Brodcast on September 27, 2009 was fantastic. The Relief Society Presidency spoke about the mission of Relief Society and the new changes for this year. It was inspiring a fun to be there with my mom, sisters, sister-in-law, nieces and friends. We are so lucky to have so many of us so close. We went to dinner at Cafe Elago and then spent a nice time at the broadcast at the Saratoga Springs Stake Center. The Stake Relief Society provided dessert afterwards and it was nice to visit. We missed those of you who could not attend. We hope to make this a semi-annual tradition!

Evan and Sarah got married! (in case you hadn't heard yet)

2009-09-29T22:47:00.005-06:00

Evan married Sarah last March in a beautiful ceremony followed by a lovely dinner and an evening of fun and dancing. Lots of family were able to attend. I took literally hundreds of pictures, but can only put 50 into a slide show so I tried to get everyone and choose the pictures that were mostly our family. If you want to see more let me know.

Congratulations Evan and Sarah!

(ps after watching the video on the blog I wanted to clarify one thing... I did not cut out all the people in the right side of the photos... sorry if you or your children got cut in half. It's just something blogger does to make the slideshow work. The real pictures look fine.)

Syd Riggs Scholarship Showcase

2009-09-29T22:14:00.004-06:00

So, I had sort of given up on the whole family blog because I was tired of being the only one posting. However, Karen has called me to repentance and so I am going to try and go back and fill in the things I have missed... because I have some good ones. Like this:

Back in February Zack, Jaremy, Chris and I had the opportunity to perform in a Scholarship Showcase in honor of Syd Riggs, who played a very big part in all of our loves and passed away about 4 years ago. I'm sure I speak for all of us when I say that it was a blast to be working on a project together again. I loved being choreographed by Jaremy and standing on stage side-by-side with the 3 of them. Most of you got to see the show and it was great to have your support. It was an exhausting, whirlwind week but worth it to work together with each other as well as reunite with other performers we've worked with in the past.

Chris was able to reprise his roles of Archie in Secret Garden and Jean Valjean in Les Mis.

Two of his favorite and most memorable roles.

Jaremy and Zack rocked it in almost every number...

hey were definitely the stars of the show.

I was in a bunch of group numbers and loved dancing again...

even though it felt incredibly awkward!

Love these people and so fun to be on stage with them all again.

Hopefully we can all participate again next year!

Birthday Celebrations and Family Night- all rolled in to one!

2009-09-25T13:41:00.002-06:00

This Sunday is the last Sunday of the month, which means it is Higbee Family Home Evening. Yeah!! Remember we decided to do this the last Sunday of each month to have an opportunity to visit, enjoy each other's company, do any planning, and celebrate birthdays. SHould be a fun tradition.

So- we will be celebrating Leisa, Afton, Max, Greg, Chris and Josh (and thinking of and missing Tericia, Mike, Tyler, Nathan and Traci- wish you all could be here).

When: Sunday evening at 6:30

Where: Mom and Dad's

Assignments: cake- Mom and Katie

Ice cream and paper goods- Jolie and Karen

Call Mom if you have any questions.

Make sure you are there! It won't be the same without you!!

(PS. if you get this as an email you are the ONLY ONE in your family who gets it. PLEASE FORWARD it on to your spouse and adult children so everyone will have the information).

Saratoga Springs Stake Conference

2009-09-20T14:20:00.005-06:00

I just thought I would give a few of my thoughts about our Stake Conference for all of you who were not able to make it. For those of you in the area I hope that you will add something also. I would also love to read some of the things from those of you not in our stake, Mike, Rich, Tericia & all of Tericia's adult Children.

I love the Saturday night adult session. There was a great controversy because it was right in the middle of the BYU game. When I told Mike that BYU would probably loose if he didn't go little did I understand the real blessing. It was that he didn't have to sit through one of the most frustrating and heartbreaking loses that BYU has had. If you saw the score or watched the game you understand that BYU unfortunately doesn't win because we attend our church meetings. Also it was a fantastic meeting. President Dortch gave one of the best talks that I have ever heard. He spoke on "Self Esteem" and how stupid a concept that it is. He read in the scriptures about the "nothingness of man." If you know the exact scripture would you please let me know. How we are all zero's. That we are only of worth if we attach ourselves to the one. That makes us a 10 and when we marry and attach our other zero that makes us a 100 ad so on. I loved it!

President Server showed footage of the documentary about the LDS man that was on the 80th floor of one of the Twin Towers when it was hit 8 years ago on 9/11. I loved that the lesson that he learned was that it is not about commuting 2 hours each way so that he could provide the best of everything for his family. I loved that the lesson he learned was that the only thing that was important was his family. Here is the link to the video. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jtx82FRsaQA. It was awesome.

President Wilkinson's talk was about "The Father" was so profound. I love to hear him bear witness of his love of our Heavenly Father. He was so emotional about how much our Heavenly Father loves us that I too felt his love. When we left the meeting on Saturday night and found out how badly BYU got beat Mike was so glad that he didn't have to watch it after all. See there are blessings in going to Stake Conference that we don't even know we need.

The people that bore their testimonies on the spot absoulutely amazed me! I can't imagine being called up to bear my testimony in Stake Conference. They were beautiful and touching.

Sunday was also very good. I really loved hearing from the youth speakers. One of them was an Eagle Scout that is the Student Body President at Willowcreek Middle School and the other was a friend of Katie's Janalyn Laciente. They spoke on making choices. I think that there are some youth that have everything handed to them and feel like that they are owed something and it was nice to hear from such humble and good kids that are trying to do things that their Heavenly Father would have them do.

I think that the most touching talk was the one that Sharon Mardisech gave. She was released as Stake Young Women's President. Sharon is a softer and kinder person then when I first met her. It has been so beautiful to me to see the spirit at work in her life. She is my hero. I really have such a respect for her willingness to do what her Heavenly Father has asked her to do. Even send her child to Him, forgive others and be a force for good in other people's lives. Thanks for that Sharon!

I would love to hear what you loved about Stake Conference in your area or from your point of view.

I love you all and loved seeing so many of my family members there. I think of you often and you are in my prayers always-

Love,
Karen

Upcoming Yard Sale Saturday September 19 8:00-1:00

2009-09-17T09:50:00.002-06:00

Hi Everyone! The Parents of the Lehi Pionettes are having fundraiser Yard Sale on Saturday. There will be lots of good stuff. I have about 20 bags of things I am taking personally. If you are needing good used and new clothes, furniture, jewelery, ect... come support us on Saturday. The address is 876 W 1500 N Lehi behind the Chevron on State Street right in front of Utah Wilbur Vault. Hope to see you there!

Braxton Kai Fitzgerald

2009-09-14T13:18:00.001-06:00

This was emailed from Tericia, who got it from Evan.

Isn't he a cutie?!?

Congratulations Evan and Sarah!!

Alec's Team gets their fist Win!!!!

2009-09-13T09:17:00.005-06:00

Alec is the on the West Lake 5th grade B team. He has played football for 3 years. When they had tryouts this year the league decided to have a 5th grade A and B team. Alec was really sad and disappointed that he didn't make the A team. He LOVES football! He has such a big heart and such a great team spirit. He is supportive of his team mates and his coach. That is why his coach made him the team captain. He plays the center on offense. A line backer on defense and plays blocker on special teams. He is the first to congratulate someone for a good play and to commiserate when something doesn't go so well and to cheer up his team. His team has worked really hard and has improved every game. They finally won! With a lot of hard work and perseverance from this B team they won a really good Lehi team. The A team hasn't won a game! Way to go Alec!

Alec sets up a block for his Quarterback to run through.
Alec waits on the side to go back into the game and to cheer his team on!

Alec is all game on game day! No time for pictures mom!

The 2 boys that scored the touchdowns! Number 15, Trey Morris and number 83 Lance Walker. Lance is the Quarterback that Alec blocked for to make the first touchdown.

Katie & Alec's First Day of School

2009-09-13T09:04:00.003-06:00

Katie and Alec started their first day of school on August 25th. Two days later than everyone else because we went to the Beach house the first two days of school. Katie is a Senior at Lehi High School. She is an officer on the Drill Team, a choreographer on the Dance Company and a 4.0 student since 9th grade. I can't believe she is a senior. I wasn't able to get a picture of her in her first day school outfit because she left at 5:30 in the morning looking pretty much like she looks in this picture. Drill team starts at 6:00 am so she gets dressed at school and then she has Dance company last period so she gets back in her dance clothes. When she comes home she is either working on homework like on the first day of school or involved with the Special Needs Mutual which she serves as a councilor.

Alec is in the 5th grade at Saratoga Shore Elementary. He has an awesome teacher, Mrs. Hacking. He says that he is pretty much the most popular kid in school because everyone knows who he is. He says that it's because of me. I substituted or worked in the developmental Preschool for 5 years before I went to work with Jolie at BYU. I am almost finished and will be excited to go back and substitute while I am in school. I have loved being with Alec at his awesome school. I think I am the most popular sub because of Alec!

Coleman's first birthday!

2009-09-10T20:46:00.003-06:00

Can you believe he is already ONE?!?

Read my post about it over on my blog.

And remember to come celebrate with us

this Sunday evening at 6:30 at our house!

Plain Art Festival at Thanksgiving Point

2009-09-10T09:01:00.003-06:00

Grandma has been painting in the Thanksgiving Point Garden the past few days and is entering a piece of her work painted in the garden on Saturday at Water Tower Plaza in Thanksgiving Point between 10 am and 5 pm. Come and see what she has done.

Chocolate Zucchini Cake

2009-09-09T18:49:00.002-06:00

I found the most amazing recipie. It's a great way to get your kids to eat their green vegetables!! I got it from my good friend Jana Harris. She is pretty much the Country Martha Stewart. You should give it a try. It's really to die for and it has vegetables in it!

Jana Harris Chocolate Zucchini Cake

1 3/4 Cup of sugar
1/2 Cup of Cocoa
2 eggs
2 1/2 tsp. baking powder
1 tsp. salt
1 tsp. cinnamon
2 tsp. vanilla
1/2 Cup buttermilk
1/2 Cup butter (softened)
1/2 Cup oil (I use Canola oil)
1/2 Cup grated zucchini
2 1/2 Cups of flour

Combine butter, sugar, cocoa and eggs-blend well. Then add remaining ingredients. I usually add the zucchini last so it doesn't get tangled in my mixer.

Pour into a greased 9X13 in. pan (I use Pam). Sprinkle top with brown sugar (the recipie calls for 3/4 Cup but I never measure). Then add milk chocolate chips (again the recipie calls for 3/4 cup but you can never have too much of a good thing so I don't measure. I use 1 small bag of Giradelli milk chocolate chips) before baking.

Bake at 350 degrees for 40-45 min.

Enjoy! I know we have.

Way to go Katie!

2009-09-09T18:16:00.003-06:00

Picture taken by Katie Higbee

Katie is a busy girl! She is on Lehi's Drill team and serves as an officer. She is also on the Dance Company and is a coreographer. She is coreographing a dance to take to the High School competition at the Shakespear Festival in Cedar City on October 8th. Katie went and Auditioned for the renound dance company Rire Woodbury Dance Company and made their Jr. company that consists of 25 High School Seniors and she made it!! She drove to Salt Lake and did the audition all by herself. She has a gpa of 4.0. Most important this year Katie is serving a service mission for our Stake by being a youth councilor for the Special Needs Mutual. The Special Needs Mutual is a Mutual that serves young teens and adults that have a physical or mental disability. This call is only extended to exemplary youth that have good attendence at church and Seminary. We are so amazed by her and love her so much! Way to go Katie!!!

Why we don't Post on the Family blog.

2009-09-09T13:15:00.004-06:00

Why aren't the rest of you posting on the family blog. If you are a Higbee, were once a Higbee, are related to someone that is a Higbee then you should be posting on this blog. I have come up with a theory of why some of you are not posting.

You think that you have already told Mom & Dad and that they should tell us. Well in rebuttle to you all, Mom & Dad have lost short term memory and usually what you say is lost in the translation.
You don't think you have anything to say. We do not have a language problem in this family! Have you been to a family gathering? WE all have TOO much to say. This is the place to do it.
You think it is too hard. I can do it! Enough said.
You can't find time. I know how long it takes to post. It's about 2 minutes tops unless you are writing a dissertation like me right now. I don't have anything else to do except blog (I'm at work with nothing to do and an hour left to go).

In closing, I miss you and your kids. I would like to see more of them. If you won't do it for them, won't do it for the family do it for me your poor lonely sister. My husband is gone, my kids are busy and I miss my brothers and sisters. I would like to see someone posting every day. It can be anything, an uploaded video a comment, a picture or a dissertation on the finer points of keeping a family blog.

2009-09-02T11:37:00.002-06:00

I had the opportunity to be in charge of a booth at the Utah County Fair for the McKay School of Education. I had a lot of support and help from the PR department, students and other Vista's. There is an article about it on the McKay School of Education home page. Take a look http://education.byu.edu/news/news583.html .

Summer fun 2009

2009-08-10T20:17:00.006-06:00

This summer has been full of fun! Lot's of cousins, weddings, baptisms and new babies! Wow! It's been such a busy time.

Kylan's 3 months old!

2009-08-10T20:11:00.002-06:00

On August 9th Kylan came to visit me with his mom for my birthday. There is no way to explain how much fun it is to be a grandma! His smile is the best present ever!!! He is now 3 months old getting more and more handsome everyday. His big blue eyes look just like his daddy's did and he has his mommy's beautiful smile. I am so glad that we have this lucky little boy.

Come meet baby Kylan

2009-07-02T13:04:00.002-06:00

It's a party to celebrate baby Kylan and his parents.

Join us at The Webb's home THIS Friday, July 3rd at 7:00 pm.

Contact Karen with any questions.

Zack and Afton: Engagement Pictures

2009-07-02T12:58:00.004-06:00

Check out some more of Zack's and Afton's engagement

pictures on the photographer's blog.

They are amazing!!

Country Jam 2009

2009-06-30T17:57:00.005-06:00

Country Jam 2009 was a blast!! Golf, food, friends and music what more could you ask for!!!

Kelsey (Kelli's niece), Brandon, Kelli, Kylee Lewis, Me, Mike, Jacossa and Clint Sanders were our friends that went with us. After 15 years this is the last year that we decided to go. We will miss it but it's time for something new.

Baby Nash Fitzgerald

2009-06-01T11:00:00.002-06:00

For all of you living in a cave for the past 6 months here is a picture of Joseph's new son Christian Nash Fitzgerald or better known as "Tigger" by his dad! He said it's because he is so happy and bouncy and has red hair! Welcome to our family little "Tig"!

Alec's 4th Grade Program

2009-05-27T15:20:00.003-06:00

Alec's 4th grade Program was so fun! He did such a great job at being Jim Bridger! He sang lots of fun songs about the settling of Utah. His favorite song was called "Wheels" about the railroad and Promentory Point and cross continental Railroad meeting in Utah. I am so proud of him and love him alot!

Alyssa is graduating... come celebrate!!

2009-05-26T23:59:00.003-06:00

Alyssa is graduating this Friday!! Everyone is invited to join her at the Marriott Center at 4:00 or for dinner following the ceremony (6:00-6:30 ish) at every ones favorite La Dolce Vita in Provo. Please RSVP to Jolie so she can plan enough seats and dessert is on the Hills!! Congratulations Alyssa and we hope to see everyone there.

Look who's gettin' hitched!

2009-05-26T23:37:00.004-06:00

That's right... Zack went and popped the question and the beautiful Miss Afton actually said YES!! The big day is August 12th at the Mount Timpanogos Temple. More information is sure to come but be sure to save the date!

Congratulations Zack and Afton!

Happy Birthday Katie!

2009-05-20T19:51:00.003-06:00

Katie's birthday was so fun! We went to Tucano's, Katie's favorite resturant before her recital. Best friend Camarie Madsen came with us!

Katie's Dance Recital

2009-05-20T19:19:00.002-06:00

Katie's Dance Recital was awesome! She was so beautiful and it was really fun to watch her on her 17th birthday doing what she loves best, dancing! She is such a beautiful dancer and can really get some air! I wanted to show how high she can get. The picture is a little blurry but you get the idea!

They did 4 dances. The first one, "Vogue" has taken 1st place at every competition that they entered. The second one, "White and Nerdy" is the one she is wearing her dad's old scout shirt and Alec's hat was a big hit! It is HILARIOUS! The 3rd one, "Hear Comes the Sun" was a beautiful lyrical. The last one was the final number that Katie's best friend and dance partner Camarie Madsen sang beautifully. This is Katie's 14th year at Showcase!

Month of Service

2009-05-20T19:03:00.001-06:00

This month has been a great one! I have had the opportunity to go to 2 conferences where we finished up by doing a day of service. The top 2 pictures are of me at the VISTA conference for my project that I work on. We painted parking lot lines at the Community Center in Logan. The Last one is of me at the Lieutenant Governor's Conference for Volunteers in Utah. There were about 500 volunteers from the state that participated. We made packets for the soldiers that are deploying for the 2nd and 3rd times. We finished up by writing Thankyou letters to them. It was a great experience!

Baby Kylan Gabriel Webb

2009-05-20T16:29:00.002-06:00

What a happy Mothers Day I had this year. My first grandchild was born the night before Mothers Day. Josh and his girlfriend Renata Mizuni had a beautiful baby boy. He was born on May 9th at 8:15 p.m.. He was 5 lbs. 12 oz. and 18 1/2 inches long. He has dark brown hair and beautiful blue eyes (just like his daddy)! He is such a sweet baby and we are so grateful that his mom has worked so hard to keep him growing. It has been a week and 4 days since he was born and he is already getting little chubby cheeks. His mom says that it's because he eats every hour and half to two hours. We are so proud of him and wanted to share him with you all!

Happy Birthday Danielle

2009-04-08T11:53:00.004-06:00

What could possibly be more fun than visiting grandchildren in Paru at Christmas. I'm just learning how to do this with a lot of help from the expert, Katie, so here goes Danielle and happy birthday. These are a few of the pics with you in them we love.

Yea for the champion climbers.

Fun in the train on the way to MP. Grandpa and I are across the isle.

Wow! Fireworks at midnight on Christmas Eve! What an adventure!

Family Easter Fun

2009-04-08T11:16:00.003-06:00

This weekend is Easter and we'd love to all get together and enjoy each others company. Here's the plan:

Saturday morning at 10:30 am all the younger kids can gather with Grandma at Chris' house to make and decorate Easter cookies. Plan on being done by 12:00.

Saturday evening we would like to have a simple dinner at mom and dad's (unless someone else would like to volunteer their home) at 5:00 SHARP!! We need people to bring paper goods, chips and dip, a veggie platter, and salads. Mom and Dad are going to get sandwiches from Costco that we can all chip in for.

Saturday night we would like to go to a movie as adults. The plan is to stay close to home (AF Cinemark or or Thanksgiving Point). Any thoughts on what to see? Each family will be responsible for their own babysitters. Another thought is to go see 'Monsters vs. Aliens' as families and include the kids... OR rent a movie.

Please RSVP to Mom (766-1578) asap so we know who is coming, get your food assignment and to vote on a movie plan.

Syd Riggs Scholarship Schowcase

2009-02-02T08:37:00.004-07:00

Come see Chris, Katie, Jaremy and Zack perform and honor someone who meant a lot to us. Chris is singing the role of Archie in 'Secret Garden' and Jean Valjean in 'Les Mis', Zack and Jaremy are doing Tony and Bernardo from 'West Side Story' and I am in some ensemble numbers from 'Wicked' and 'West Side Story'. We are all in a few other things as well... including the opening and closing numbers. It's an amazing group of people and should be a wonderful show. We hope to see you all there!

(Click on the flier to enlarge it and get the information)

Chris' family Christmas

2009-01-06T22:45:00.003-07:00

We really had a great Christmas this year. We had Christmas Eve dinner at my parents house and it started with a bang. Literally. We like to blow things up and this year 2 lovely gingerbread houses saw their demise. Dinner was great and then we went to my brothers (next door) and had a program that included "The 12 days of Christmas", a few piano performances,very noisy chimes, and a traditional nativity. We then enjoyed desert, Santa brought PJ's for all and we hurried home to get to bed.Christmas morning was awesome. The kids loved opening their gifts and were thrilled to get a wii (finally... they are sure they are the very last children in America to get one). It really was awesome... check our blog in a couple days for the full story.
Here is our traditional "Christmas morning in front of the tree after all the presents are opened" picture. Afton was pretty much done with the whole thing. I think she was very tired.
After that we went to our good friends/adopted grandma's house for waffles and a phone call from my brother, Bryn, who is serving his mission in England. It was a great day... I have so much more to tell but want to leave room for the rest of you =) so check my blog in the next couple of days for the full story on everything.

Challenge

2009-01-06T22:39:00.004-07:00

All right... I'm tired of being the only one posting on here so I'm calling you all out! I'm challenging EACH AND EVERY ONE OF YOU to post a couple pictures of your Christmas and let us know what you did. Here's how you do it:

1. Make sure you are an "author" on this blog. You should have replied to my invitation months ago. If you didn't, or can't remember, call me and I'll re-invite you.

2. Go to the blog and sign in (top right hand corner). Note: if you are not an authorized author you can't sign in.

3. Select "new post".

4. Write title, add pictures, write text and select "publish post".

That's it. Super easy. And... Begin. (I'll start)

A Higbee Family Christmas!

2009-01-06T21:47:00.006-07:00

We celebrated Christmas a little early this year... 10 days to be exact. We all gathered at Jolie and Greg's for a delicious dinner and a program. We started with the nativity, planned by Aubrie. It was awesome, as usual, and the kids had a great time.

The cast: Chris (Joseph), Afton (the Star), Abigail (Mary),

Coleman (Baby Jesus), Cayden (Joseph/shepherd),

and Emma (gangsta shepherd)

Dad reading the story from the Bible as Max gives a riveting (and quite amusing) performance of the Angel Gabriel.

Mom and Dad sang some of their favorite Hawaiian songs and we had performances by "the guys" singing 'We three Kings" and Abby and Afton sang 'Where are you Christmas". We also had and impromptu sing-a-long of many of the Higbee favorites.

Then we watched this (look for Jaremy):

and this:

Both were wonderful additions and really

added to the spirit of the evening.

Love was in the air...

Jaremy brought Dani

Alyssa brought Dillon

and Zack brought Afton (what a great name).

Here are just a few more pictures:

Leisa, Mom, Coleman, and Grandma Doris

Cayden, Emma, Aubrie, and Connor

Greg and Jolie (thanks for hosting!)

and Matthew, looking dapper as always!

We also had the Webb family (they had to leave early or Katie's dance performance) and Aaron, Christopher, Troy and me (but I was behind the camera). I'm pretty sure that's it.

We really missed those of you who weren't there.

Good food, family and fun... it was the perfect night.

What a great way to celebrate the birth of our Savior!

Because a few of you asked to see it....

2008-12-27T13:15:00.007-07:00

I present to you...

Afton singing

"Where are you Christmas"

It was an amazing night...

2008-12-14T13:38:00.006-07:00

Dad was glowing... so was Mom. Many were there to show there love and support and you know Dad was thrilled to be surrounded by the people he loves the most. He gave two speeches and both were wonderful. There were also very nice things said about him by many others that were in attendance. It was a great and well deserved honor for Dad. He did so much to help UVU and it's athletics program get to where they are today. His vision and continued support have played a huge part in it's history and it's future. I know I speak for many of you when I say that I am proud to count myself among his posterity and was honored to be able to be with him last night as he accepted this award. My favorite part was at half-time: Dad was out on the court with many other Hall of Famers and they announced him last. I'm sure the crowd cheered louder for him than any others... it was an awesome moment! It was a night I'm sure we will never forget and something we will share with our kids and grandkids for years to come as we walk the halls of UVU and show them Dad/Grandpa's plaque hanging on the wall.

I made a slideshow because there were so many pictures I wanted to include (this is only about 1/3 of them). I also included parts of the program for those of you who weren't able to be there or who didn't save one. You really should take a moment to read his biography... it's really neat. You can click on the image to enlarge it so it is easier to read. Remember that to leave a comment you need to be at the blog (not in the email version) and click on the "comments" thing below this post... then just follow the directions.

Dancing with the Athletes

2008-12-14T13:04:00.006-07:00

The high school did a fundraiser where the students voted for their favorite athletes to pair up with the ballroom team and then compete against each other. No surprise that Alyssa was chosen. She worked hard and did a really good job. We were all very impressed. She danced a waltz and a rhumba. It was a very entertaining night and so fun to be there watching and supporting Alyssa.

Performing her waltz. She did 2 difficult lifts and was awesome.

Performing her very steamy rhumba.

The girls got moves... you should have seen those hips!

Judgement time...

And the winner is...

Not Alyssa... but it should've been.

She really did a wonderful job!

Her biggest fans!

(Jaremy, Afton, Dani, Grandma, Abby,

Max, Christopher, Alyssa and Jolie)

Jolie, Alyssa and Jaremy

One very proud Grandma!!

Katie and Cassidy (because they weren't in the group shot).

Hall of Fame

2008-12-08T20:16:00.003-07:00

Dad/grandpa is being honored this Saturday night at Utah Valley University. He is being officially inducted into their Athletic Hall of Fame for his efforts in getting an athletics program started at their school as well as his support of the programs over the past few years. There will be a dinner and then a basketball game where he will be honored at half- time. I hear they will even be unveiling a statue of him. The whole family is invited to all the events and it should be a fabulous night and a lot of fun to be there and support Dad/grandpa. Try to make it if you can, and if you can't make it check back next week and I'll post a bunch of pictures from the festivities!

Drill Team

2008-12-08T20:00:00.005-07:00

As most of you know, Katie is on the competition drill team at her High School and they had a "preview" night to show their pieces before they started competitions for the year. It was so fun to go watch her dance and she did such a great job. She is an excellent performer and gets so into it and has the absolute cutest facial expressions ever. It is fun to watch her because you can tell she really loves what she is doing and that she is having a great time. She even performed a solo and SHE ROCKED IT!!! And I am extremely critical. I was so impressed and it made me so happy to watch her doing so well. I loved it.

During her solo... seriously, she was amazing.

I wish I could post 100 pictures- believe me I have 'em-
I took exactly 245 pictures that night.

Keep up the good work, Katie!

Coleman's Blessing

2008-12-08T19:56:00.003-07:00

Thanks to everyone who joined us on our special day. We loved having you there to support us and were happy to have you in our home to "eat, drink and be merry together". We love you all and the day wouldn't have been the same without you. You can see more pictures by going here.

October

2008-12-08T19:37:00.002-07:00

I've been a little behind on blogging the last couple months so I've decided to just do a quick recap of family events and other things that I have pictures of. Remember that you can all post things as well (PLEASE do). I know I would love to see what is going on with all of you and I'm sure others would as well. So, here goes:

Happy Birthday

Thank you to everyone who joined us to celebrate Afton's, Max's and Chris' birtdays. They had a great time and felt very loved by all of you.

Homecoming Princess

Alyssa was voted Homecoming Princess at school. She was able to be in a parade and wear a sash and everything. And she looked absolutely adorable in her dress! Congratulations Alyssa.

Gardner Village

Many of us made the annual trip to Gardner Village to enjoy the wonderful Halloween decorations. Mom and Dad, Chris' family and Leisa family all went for Family Night and had a great time and enjoyed a wonderful meal together.

High School Musical 3

Everyone who could went together to see Zack and Jaremy in their big screen debut in HSM3. We had a blast and it was fun to see it with them. I know a lot of you went and saw it as well and had fun looking for them.

I'm sure you've all done some great things. Please post your activities so we can see what you're up to. I won't bore you with all my personal family stuff, but visit my blog when you have a minute (the link is on the left).

Happy 54th Anniversary!!

2008-12-03T20:56:00.003-07:00

To the people started it all and made us a family.

Thanks for all you do for all of us!!

We all hope you have a truly wonderful anniversary.

Next beach house payment is DUE this Saturday!!

2008-11-10T18:06:00.002-07:00

'nuff said.

Happy Birthday to Cassidy!

2008-11-03T22:37:00.003-07:00

19 years old

Please join us for Coleman's Blessing!

2008-10-26T13:14:00.002-06:00

Sunday, November 2nd @ 9:00 am (that's NEXT Sunday) @ the Church in our neighborhood (turn in to our subdivision and look for the steeple)

Immediately following Sacrament Meeting we will take a few pictures outside and have a brunch at our house. Please let us know if you will be there so we can plan enough food.

**Please note: There is the potential for 4-5 baby blessings in our ward next Sunday so please be early enough to get seats. **

Birthday Celebration

2008-10-02T13:25:00.002-06:00

Thanks to all who attended the Big Birthday Bash last night in honor of Tericia, Leisa and Greg. We all had a great time visiting and sharing news about each others lives! (I thought about posting some of that "news" here, but decided to let people post their own news instead) Special thanks to Mom and Dad for hosting every one at their home and for the yummy treats. Mom even made special books for Tericia and Leisa with pictures from their childhoods and many of you wrote letters to Leisa in honor of the big 5-0!! I know she enjoyed reading them. We missed those of you who were not able to be there, especially those who live far away and we don't get to see as much. It was a great night and the only thing that would have made it better would be you!

Practice Post

2008-09-28T19:13:00.004-06:00

Hey everyone,

I'm new at this and learning how to post because I'm so impressed with what Katie is doing...and you can too (that was from Katie). Anyway - I think this is a great way to stay connected. Thanks Katie!

Game Winning Point!!

2008-09-24T09:54:00.003-06:00

This is a MUST READ! Alyssa scored the GAME WINNING POINT against Timpanogos High School last Tuesday. There is a great article you can read here! Way to go, Alyssa!! We're so proud of you!!

Photo by Scott G. Winterton, Deseret News

Another Party!

2008-09-23T21:43:00.003-06:00

Please join us to celebrate Afton's, Max's and Chris' birthdays! Sunday, October 5th (Conference Sunday), at 6:00 pm at Chris and Katie's house.

Blog Refresher...

2008-09-23T21:26:00.004-06:00

Just a reminder to check the family blogs and how they work...

*If you receive this as an email you are the only one getting it for your family. It is your job to forward it to your spouse and grown children so they can have the updates as well. For example: Tericia gets this email and should forward it to Corey and all their children... I need to forward it to Cassidy. The blog only allows me to send it to a few people so this seemed like the best system. It is very important that you do this, especially with the beach house information, so that everyone is aware of what is going on. We've had some people frustrated that they were not getting info and don't want anyone to be in the dark.

*Remember that any of you can post to the family blog. Those of us who are using it are really having fun and we hope you'll all start posting the exciting things happening in your families. Let me know if you would like help learning how to do this.

*To comment on any posts you cannot just reply to this email... that just send it to me. You have to actually go the the blog itself and leave your comment there. Doing this allows everyone to read your comment and even reply to your comments.

*Remember there are 2 blogs... one for the Higbee family in general and one that is strictly Beach House related. The family blog is www.jmhigbeefamily,blogspot.com and you can follow the link on the left to get to the Beach House 2009 Blog or follow these links.

Let me know if you have any questions... happy blogging! (And remember to forward this email to the rest of your family... do it now... before you forget!)

Look who's in the news!

2008-09-15T20:55:00.005-06:00

It's Alyssa... she's #7 in the front. It was a HUGE upset!

Click here to watch video and read the article.

Photo by: David Archibald/Daily Herald

Miss Utah USA 2008: Cassidy is a Contestant

2008-09-13T19:15:00.003-06:00

It is Official. I will be competing in the Miss Utah USA 2008 Pagent. Something that I have been looking forward to all summer. It is being held in Ogden, Utah at the Egypitian Theater November 13-15, 2008. Family and Friends are all invited. I will let you know when tickets go on sale. I am looking for sponsors to help me in acheiving my dreams and goals. If anyone has any suggestions on sponsors or are interested in sponsoring me let me know. I would love the help and support. Thanks! Wish me luck in these next couple of months preparing for Miss Utah!

If you are planning to come, Important Dates to Remeber:

Charity Dinner (open to the Public) November 13th

Preliminaries November 14th

Finals November 15th

Introducing...

2008-09-10T21:15:00.003-06:00

Coleman Somers Higbee
9/10/2008 @ 4:47 pm
6 lbs. 4 oz. and 18 inches

Just a few minutes old.

One very happy mother... he's so sweet and tiny! I'm so grateful that he's here!

The whole family! I can't believe we have 4 children (and a bonus kid)... CRAZY!

About 30 minutes old. He is so alert and aware.

A couple hours old. We are madly in love with the little guy.

Everything went great! We arrived at the hospital about 10 am but didn't start the induction until around noon. The delivery went smoothly and I feel great (well, as great as can be expected). All the kids were there and they were so cute. Max is just thrilled to have a brother, Abby kept patting my hand and telling me how brave I was and that she was so proud of me, and Afton was extremely protective... she didn't want anyone to hold him but her and she would get very upset when he cried. I think she is going to be a great big sister. We are grateful to Cassidy for being with Afton all day and getting the kids at school and bringing them to the hospital just in time. It was a great day and we are so grateful for our beautiful baby boy. We feel extremely blessed to have this little guy join our family.

Showered with Love

2008-09-07T13:42:00.005-06:00

Karen threw a baby shower for me yesterday at her home. We decide to keep it small, family only, and we had a great time celebrating the upcoming arrival of our fourth and final bundle of joy. I am extremely grateful to everyone who came and for all the lovely gifts (the group gift was a much needed double stroller that I lOVE and I'm sure will get a lot of use!). We also tied a quilt together that Coleman is sure to love and I'll think of all of you when I use it. Everyone was so thoughtful and it meant a lot to me that you all took time out of your busy Saturday to be with me! It was so fun to just visit and be together... I have the greatest family on earth!

"The Quilters": Karen, Abby, mom, my Grandma Jackie Farnsworth, Kathy Luke, and Suzanne.

Abby learning how to tie a quilt with Grandma Higbee. Abby was so proud of herself. When I said this would be a great blanket to put on the floor and have Coleman play on she looked shocked and told me this was a "special quilt". I wonder if I'll ever get to use it!

Karen and I holding up the (almost) finished product.

"The non-quilters": Melody (my sis-in law), baby Sarah (my niece), Aubrey (my sister), Wendy (my bonus mom), Saundra (my sis-in-law) and my mom, Bevan.

Aubrie and shy little Emma.

Unfortunately a lot of the pictures didn't turn out (my fault... I had my camera on a manual setting... people who took pictures for me should not feel bad) so a lot of you aren't in here! Sorry and thanks for coming Jolie, Katie, Alyssa and Cassidy! You all made my day. We really missed all of you "out-of-towners" and wish you could have been here... parties aren't the same without all of you! Thanks again, Karen (and everyone who helped her)! It was so nice of you to do this for me and I am soooo grateful. (Be sure to check back late Wednesday for pictures of baby Coleman!!)

Congrats Grad!

2008-09-07T13:32:00.007-06:00

As most of you know, Jaremy graduated from BYU on August 15th. We are all so proud of his accomplishment and are excited to see what comes next for him (he's planning on med school... go Jay!... and is currenty doing EMT training). Jolie and Greg had a party for him that night and asked me to take a few "graduation pictures". We were going for the official look, but it just didn't fit his personality and the wind was really bad so we changed our plan and had a lot more fun with a lot better results! I think they turned out really cool and different (and it was good practice for me... thanks for being my guinea pig). A whole crowd came to celebrate with Jaremy. It started out as mostly family and we had a delicious BBQ. As it got later his friends started to arrive and party late into the night. We even watched a few treasured home movies... you've come a long way Jaremy!

Soccer Champ

2008-09-07T13:24:00.003-06:00

Alyssa is playing on the Lehi High School Girls' Soccer team again this year and I was honored that they asked me to come take their team pictures for their posters again (I did them last year too). They are always fun to work with... just a really cool group of girls. This year their slogan is "Bustin' the competition...one team at a time" (or something like that) so we found a cool old alley and got the Lehi Police to let them climb all over their cars. If you live in this area, look around and maybe you'll see one of their posters somewhere! The top picture is everyone and the second picture is just the Seniors. Isn't Alyssa gorgeous! I hear the team is doing awesome this year. Alyssa is such a great player and I know we are all really proud of her accomplishments in the sport and excited to see where she goes with it!

Life in Virginia

2008-08-27T16:48:00.002-06:00

This is my first attempt at blogging. So far I am convinced that I am blogging challenged but we will see how it goes. I hope our picture of the home we will be renting will come up for you to see. Virginia is a beautiful place and we are excited about this house. It sits on 1and1/2 acre of land. Most of it is trees. There is a variety of wildlife and alot of birds.

Our home in Utah still has not sold or been rented so it's anyones guess as to how we will pay for this house. Please pray for us. Living by faith takes alot of energy and a committment to turn away from fear. Anyway, here goes nothing.....

A family that plays together...

2008-08-13T21:53:00.005-06:00

On Aug. 2nd Dad, Chris, Mike and Karen competed as a team in the annual Saratoga Springs Stake Golf Tournament. They placed fourth and had a great time. This was their 3rd year participating in this event and they have always done really well... they even took home the 1st place trophy in 2005!