Disneyland or Bust!

We've been keeping a major secret from our kids for months.  I was so excited the hours leading up to telling them I could hardly contain myself.  Not only were we going to Disneyland with my entire family but we were flying!  Randy and I told the boys we were going to Park City for the weekend.  As we drove toward the airport, they boys had no clue.  Planes were flying over our heads, still no clue.  I finally said, Randy I think we went the wrong way, this isn't Park City.  The kids finally realized we were at the airport.

When we told them we were flying to Disneyland, their reactions were priceless.  Hank shook his head in disbelief, Max couldn't stop kissing everyone, and Sam kept saying, "wait, we're going to Disneyland".  I can't believe they didn't realize I packed quite heavily for a weekend in Park City.  We showed up to the hotel for yet another surprise.  The Ross fam, the Jones fam, and grandma and grandpa were all in the lobby waiting for us.  It was almost too many surprises for the kids.  It took a minute for it to set in.

We spent our first day in California shopping in Downtown Disney, eating, and playing at the arcade.

Later that night we saw Moana.  My mom desperately wanted a heartfelt hug from Hank.  He told her he would hug her for one full minute if she danced on the bench.  My mom didn't even hesitate.  She danced on the bench like a crazy person.  I'm not sure what embarrassed Hank more.  The dance or the one minute embrace with his grandma.

We went to bed early, excited for DISNEYLAND tomorrow!!

Thanksgiving 2016

I didn't get to help at the preschool Thanksgiving party this year but Sam's hat made my day.  Boy am I thankful for this mamas boy.

Grandma Griffin was prepared with minute to win it games at her annual pie night.  Sam got was into it!  

Of course the kids had to update their heights on the cupboard.  I'm blown away she still makes all the pies from scratch.

Thanksgiving day started with a beautiful run with Sarah followed by dinner at Jeri's.

Jenni and I even braved some Black Friday shopping after dinner.

The food was wonderful.  I really enjoyed talking with everyone and being together.

I have so much to be thankful for.  There's nothing more I could want than this crew.  It was such a beautiful day.

Cubs win, Futsol, Little Bear, Ball Boys, Donald Trump, and More!

We've waited over a hundred years for this moment, the Cubs won the World Series!

Witnessing this die hard cubs fan see it happen was the best!

My parents had to witness it as well.  What an incredible series, Go Cubs Go!

We witnessed another unbelievable event just a few days later.

Donald Trump is our next president.  It pains me to even type those words.  My predictor was horribly wrong.  We all watched the election results in utter disbelief.  How did this happen?  I'm absolutely sick about it.  Perhaps he'll surprise us all and do a wonderful job.  Doubt it.

Good thing a night out with my bestie helped me forget about it for a minute.

Hank's basketball season has resumed which means I have a gym buddy again.  I'm so proud of his commitment and dedication.  It's not easy to get up at 5:30 a.m.  I can't wait to watch him play.

Max has entered the unknown world of Futsol.  It's so fun to watch him figure out a new game.  

He's doing so well and even getting a shot at playing goalie.

Little Bear had an epic weekend at our house.  Randy took the boys to the BYU game where they had sideline passes before the game.

Sam takes his Little Bear sleepovers seriously.  How many photo ops can he come up with?  It's impressive!

We've been enjoying some gorgeous November weather.  Nearly 70 degrees some days.  Griffy isn't complaining about our long walks to the park.

Hank and Max got to be ball games at a BYU basketball game thanks to Randy's friend Tim.  It's so awesome how well connected he is.  Our kids are seriously lucky to have so many opportunities. 

It was hilarious watching the boys mop up the court after a timeout.  They've literally never used a mop in their lives!  

They loved being on the court and so close to the players.

And finally, I had the opportunity to speak on a panel at the Type 1 Nation.  It was a good experience however I was incredibly unprepared.  Good thing no one really asked me any questions.

Pheasant Hunting Success

Randy, Hank, and Max got invited to join my dad for the pheasant hunt so that meant, I got Sam all to myself.  We decided to go on an adventure via Front Runner.

My cutest little train riding partner.  We decided to head downtown and see where the night took us.

The night took us to the Trolls movie followed by pizza and ice cream at California Pizza Kitchen.  I was able to squeeze in some much needed bonding time with my sweet Sam.  We had the best night.

And I even got us on the right train home.  Winning!

The next morning we hit the indoor pool at the Legacy Center.

Sam faced his fears and let the giant bucket hit him.

There is nothing better than one on one time with my kids.  Sam missed his brothers but kinda didn't want them to come home!  It won't be long before all 3 boys are ditching me to go hunting.

The boys had a wonderful time and even managed to capture a few pics for me.

It was a successful hunt and Max had such a great first experience at the club.  Hank shot 7 pheasants and Max followed close behind with a BB gun to finish the job.  Seeing my dad teach these boys the ropes at the duck club makes me so happy.  They are ready to quit their normal lives and move up to the club permanently.  So many memories and quality bonding time.  They have inside jokes and stories for days but won't tell me cause...bro code.  Obviously.