THE BABCOCKS

8th Grade Graduation

2010-05-31T10:26:00.000-07:00

We have a tradition in my family that when you graduate from 8th grade you receive a ring with your birthstone in it. Mindi received a pink flowered ring and a necklace with a few diamonds and pink stone in it that is a high hill. As most teenagers she was very excited and showed enthusiasm about receiving something so speacial. More will come Not working right now.

Bailey's Baptism & Isabell's Baby Blessing

2010-05-31T10:16:00.001-07:00

May was a busy month. Bailey DeVroom was baptised and her sister Isabella was blessed in Sandy Utah near their home. The weather was great and several friends and family were there to celebrate this special time in David and Clare's Live.

The DeVroom family. Bailey and Hadley such beautiful girls.

The Luce Family Great Grandma Rogers was there for the grand kids. There were several cousins.

David and Ethan, family gatherings around the chapel. David and his kids.

The Snow family. The Babcock family was there but I was the one taking the photos so I usually don't get to be in the pictures. We were grateful to be involved in the gathering of family events like these. Congratulations DeVroom's.

Mothers Day

2010-05-31T10:08:00.000-07:00

Mothers Day is always so much fun. I love to see how many things the kids make from school. Damon he is so creative he made a game for the family to play on. He made players, board, cards and instructions. He wrote me a song, a poem and made 2D pop out cards. Devon gave me a book of his journals from school. I love to read what he thinks. I asked Mindi what she made me. Now being 14 years old she wished me Happy Mothers Day on face book. How thoughtful. We went out to dinner at Texas Road house and everyone had a really enjoyable time being together as a family.

Soccer Tryouts

2010-05-31T09:40:00.000-07:00

Soccer Tryouts for the Boys!

We had a gap between soccer games, there was a sign right down the street from our house for competitive soccer tryouts. So Devon really wanted to try-out not wanting to do football this year. So prior to Damon's soccer game that we coach he wanted to come over and try out. Within 20 minutes he had 4 coaches look at him. They were pretty impressed especially sense Damon never stops running around the field. He was asked to come back for call backs. He played a full game on a full size field. We received a call this week and Damon made the team. He said "I was surprised I was that good" I said he had done really well and loves to play. He is so excited to start. They will be having practice 3 times a week and travel to play other teams. We will know more for Devon in the next 2 weeks weather he will play or not. Damon ran really well and is competitive with the other players. He mentioned to me "Mom these guys are really fast!". He really wants to do something different this year. I guess the coaching for indoor and outdoor for the kids have paid off.

Indoor Soccer Coach

2010-05-31T09:36:00.000-07:00

Ben & I were indoor soccer coaches for Devon and Damon's teams. We had a great time and the kids really did well and learned a allot. As the gift for the last game I gave the kids these Water bottles with their names on them. Both teams did really well through out the season. It was a great experience and fun to be involved with the kids activities. Sense we were coaches there wasn't much time for picture taking for video recording so the memories and experience will just be those we can share.

Devon is a Scout

2010-05-31T09:24:00.000-07:00

Devon is now 11 years old which means he is a Scout. He is so excited to earn as many badges and do as many outdoor things as he can. We had a Court of Honor for him already and he was able to wear his whole uniform. We bought one large enough that hopefully we don't have to buy to many. He is such a loving kid but we sure have to buy several sizes for him to grow up in each stages of his life. He will soon be 12 this summer. I can't believe how fast the time goes. I can reflect on when we had him home in our 2 bedroom apartment in Rancho Cucamonga being almost 10 pounds out of the hospital and eating 12 cases of formula a month. He loves to eat and sleep as a child and it has continued as he has gotten older. He is very active and adventures and will do really well in the Scout program. Great job Devon!

Weekend Get Away to Las Vegas

2010-05-31T09:06:00.000-07:00

I was given a Friday off from work. We had not been any where out of Utah for quite sometime so we drove to Las Vegas for the weekend. The boys went with us while the teenager Mindi had other plans with friends. She wanted to come but couldn't do both. So she stuck with he friends like most teenagers would.

It was so nice to lay out by the pool having the warm sun shine on you. This winter in Utah it has snowed and rained almost every day. It was nice to run away to a warmer climate.

The boys were able to pick one show to watch for a night. They picked "Chris Angel" the allusionist. It was an awesome show we all really loved it.

The boys and I went around taking pictures and become a mummy in the Lexur while Ben took a nap sense he was out all night enjoying his time.

We really had a great time being together and getting away from reality. It will be nice to plan something like that again.

Damon recieved his Bobcat Award

2010-02-26T17:14:00.000-08:00

Damon could not Wait. He received his first award in Cub Scouts his Bobcat. He is anxious now to get them all. Ben and I have been called into the Cub Scouts and are are the leaders for the Bobcats and Wolfs which are the 8 year old. We have 9 boys currently for all levels of Boys Scouts and have been working with the Bears, and the Weblos as well. For those who have been in Scouts that is very tough especially for someone who new nothing about Scouting. We we had to learn fast. It has been great each boy so excited to come every week. We had our Blue and Gold dinner on Feb 23rd and turned out fantastic everyone attended with their parents.

We had two other boys receive their award.

We are so proud of you Damon, great job on you Bobcat award!

The Begining of 2010

2010-02-26T16:36:00.000-08:00

The kids made an igloo and we were watching Nathan our nephew the one night and they were building more and more walls he wanted to help and join in the fun. I can't say being out in the cold playing with snow is fun. Its to cold for me!

So we have all been busy with new jobs, new sports that we are playing, and also getting into trouble. In the fist two months of 2010 these are some of the events that took place.

Jr. Babcock was baptised in January. I can't believe how much he has grown you can see him with Damon & Devon. They also had a new addition to their family and now they have 4 kids. So they have their hands full. We were able to have Nancy and Larry come visit from Oregon where they are living now so we had some get together while they were here.

Jaden Luce my sister Laura's oldest was also Baptised. We were able to attend his as well. IT was nice getting together and seeing one another when we can at these special times.

Devon wanted to grow his hair out long and shaggy like a skater only his hair is so thick and grows so fast that he finally let us cut it all off. He had so much hair I think it was the first time it was this long. I do hope the last. He looks so much better with his cut shorter. Thanks to Ann Snow his aunt she took it cut it all off for him.

Devon is paying Basetball this year and is doing pretty good. He is strong and quick at taking hte ball down makes some lay ups and shots even has had some 3 pointers but he is still learning to be on the defensive side, hands up and getting the ball back or even getting a turn over while being defensive. He loves to shoot hoops all day long. Its been fun watching his games each Saturday. Devon and Damon will both be playing indoor soccer next. Ben and I are are the coaches for both of their teams this year. Yea us!

As far as trouble well I hate to label and mention it but Devon is trouble. He gets around trouble and becomes trouble. The last two months we have been working with him tiring to figure out what the change was that came about at school. He is such a loving, kind, helpful kid but the last two months he became a whole different person. We were able to figure out a little about what went on. He received 3 pink slips from school one after the other. Now a pink slip at school is not good, you go to the office talk to the principle and have to have a parent sign them to return back the next day. He with several other boys would talk back, Devon being more mouthier then the others was sent to the Principles office for two months to eat lunch until it changed. Then he had a sub for two days and he just gave it to him and was so rude and disrupted that finally the next time his teacher had a sub he was suspended for two days and almost not wanting him to return back to school. I was beside myself. What is the change? What can we do to help him through this. My older sister mentioned puberty its the age. Then I was besides myself I didn't know what to do. With Devon it doesn't phase him. So I sat down with him, calmly and just asked what is going on what can we do to help, is something happen at school that we don't know about? He just started crying, no words and really upset. So I used the Spiritual side of things, well you are the only person who can help yourself. We are here for you and help you daily no matter what. I suggest if you don't know what to do and if you are upset they way you are channeling your anger is not working and hurting others around you so I suggest you saying a little prayer each morning or stop and think about what you are doing while being mad before you act upon it. He has been grounded for over a month now, in his room no TV, radio, computer, games etc. He is to read all day long in his room. He even tried getting out of it once he said he was bored and hated being home. I said next time your choices will be different then hu, there are consequences for your choices. Let me tell you its the hardest thing to ground a child and be so st ricked because the whole family gets grounded. We found out that Devon needed more love, more attention and more one and one with all that he does. He is an emotional, loving kid and wants us to tell him all the time how good he is doing, getting rewards when he is doing well. We worked out a program that he does well that once a month we have one on one time with him, a date night a place he would like to go to. My older sister shared a story with him and the minute you want to KILL your child is one you should sit back think, and be calm to see what you can do together. Now it doesn't work with every child and usually nothing works with him. I will tell you that his grades are better, he had a sub today at school and did well, the Principle is getting him out of his office and can eat in the cafeteria with his friends again. The biggest thing is that we are working together on his needs. I put allot of Faith & trust into this one. We needed to start now sense he will be 12 a teenager. I don't want it to be later. I want to thank you my family for their thoughts and ideas, sometimes you have to look outside to look in.

Devon we love you and you are doing well. Great job keep up the good work. As far as the other 2 Mindi and Damon as much as we don't like to label again, they are both straight A students. They work hard sometimes but love to do well. Mindi has been asked to do AP English next year for 9th grade. We are proud of her and Damon just received 3rd place in his school class by sharing a story he made up and told it in front of the class its called "Story Telling". I must say he had so many expressions and large words that I didn't know it was one of my kids. He has such a large imagination.

So if you haven't heard from us we are not lost of gone we were pulling it together! Love our friends and family.

The Babcocks

Christmas Dinner at Grandma's

2009-12-14T18:39:00.001-08:00

We all meet at Grandma Rogers for Christmas dinner. Claire made chili, Laura made corn bread then we celebrated Jayden's birthday with cake and ice cream. We had a great time. Grandma made a bear ornament for all the kids to go home with. It was a great get together everyone. Merry Christmas Grandma.

We went Sledding!!

2009-12-14T18:19:00.000-08:00

We meet David and his kids at his house in Sandy and went Sledding for the first time this winter. You can tell by the pictures that there wasn't much now by his house but it was slushy enough that you could still go down pretty fast. Hadley was pulled up the hill each time you couldn't even feel that she was still on the sleed. We would all grap each other and make a train the most we had go down was 10. Richard and his two boys came later, Davids brother in law. We had a great time and it was a pretty nice day to go. NOT TO COLD!!!

Damon is Baptised

2009-12-06T12:53:00.001-08:00

Mindi took these first 2 pictures. She defiantly needs some more practice.

We had a very excited and busy day yesterday. Damon choose to be baptised and spent the whole day with family who celebrated and enjoyed his day with him. We want to thank each and everyone of you who came out. We had a great time and it was especially nice to be around family and have all the cousins play together. We appreciate each one of you very much.

My grandma Rogers and Aunt NormaJean (my mom's mom) came to celebrate in the event thank you.

Aunt Laura cut Damon's & Devon's hair. Thank you Laura they love it. Damon was so excited to be in front of everyone at church looking better then ever.

Babcock's Thanksgiving Feast

2009-12-06T12:42:00.000-08:00

We had our Thanksgiving at Ben's sisters house Tricia & Joel with their two boys AJ & Shane in Cedar Hills. We all contributed to the thanksgiving day. Every year I try making my moms home made rolls & pies. We had made 2 Pumpkin Pies this year & 6 trays of Cinnamon rolls.

We had a great time being all together and the foot was great and filling. Tavah and Brandon had their 4th little girl Asbin. Devon loved holding her. She has so much hair and was so tiny.

My mom mailed an activity to the kids and Damon had so much fun making this Thankful Tree for all the things he is thankful for this year. There were several he mentioned that were great, holy ghost, water, beds, brother, sister. etc. Thank you mom they loved it.

I was then sick for 5 days straight after Thanksgiving. We didn't eat much sense they kids are hardly home with the break from school so I had to start giving the food away so that it wouldn't go bad. I am defiantly thankful for my health.

Damon on TV

2009-11-16T18:36:00.000-08:00

Damon was on TV tonight and thought we would share it to those who don't live in the Utah area. Enjoy the spotlight of Damon Babcock.

To see it "lick on" Title Damon on TV - it will take you right to the website.

Babcock Family Pictures 2009

2009-11-15T15:12:00.000-08:00

We tried to get family pictures done, I didn't care to much for how they came out as a family but I did love the kids pictures. They are growing up so fast and its amazing when you stop and take a picture for the memories they have already gone by. We really need to take more time out of the busy, surviving every day things and sit with them, tell them how proud we are and how well they are doing. I am so proud of my kids they each have straight A's in school. They are in activities and Devon and Damon love scouts. We are defiantly busy but it will pass you bye before you know it.

I love you guys! Love mom

Damon on TV

2009-11-15T14:41:00.000-08:00

Damon will be on TV on Monday 11/16/2009 @ 5:00 & 6:00 on channel 4. His classroom at school is doing a "Giving Tree" and one of the kids in his class, mom works for the station and interviewed some of the kids. We have been laying their cloths out the night before and Damon says "Mom I don't think this outfit is appropriate to be on TV" I responded "Ow, Yes, I think your right lets find something else to where". He usually combs his own hair and says "Mom I will need you to combs my hair today so it looks OK on TV", I said "OK Damon I will help you out.

Damon mentioned they only wanted energetic answers, he said he was so nervous his knees were shacking but he was excited and answered the question as best as he could. He is so nervous that he will miss seeing it. We have it scheduled to be taped on the TV and are excited to see him. If you remember look for him!

Damon turned 8

2009-11-15T14:25:00.000-08:00

Damon Happy Birthday. I can't believe you are 8 now. Time sure goes by us when we start to look back. You are always happy, helping out others, still just as excited to get a cake and any gifts your family give you. I have been sick for over 4 days and I know he wanted a chocolate cake with white frosting on top. So with my dear friends help of easy suggestions Michelle Roberts now in Arizona. She gave me this idea. Now Damon has loved Dinosaurs every sense he was able to walk. So I am pretty artistic and new that this shouldn't be to hard to do. All went well until the cake cooled and I tried cutting the sections, and it was way to moist and started to fall apart. I then made the frosting and it got runny. I wanted to cry at this point and go back to bed from not feeling good. So I let the frosting go into the areas it needed to go back together and made it run off the dinosaur to look like the ground and dirt. I showed it to Damon and he was so excited, "how did you do that?". "This is the best cake ever" gosh he sure knows how to make a mom feel good - for those who buy cakes, I have ordered them in the past and they look good but he had never said it was the best, so remember the ones made from the heart are more special then the ones ordered! I even made him his favorite dinner Chinese food from scratch. I cleaned his room and rearranged it as my gift and made him a large Birthday banner in his room. He was so excited. It didn't take allot to make this 8 year old have a great birthday ever. He got several new toys - robot transformer things - Biogonds. New shoes and a new scooter. We love you Damon.

Halloween Day 2009

2009-11-02T18:17:00.000-08:00

Happy Halloween to everyone. I hope you had a great evening. We had a great time. Mindi of course is getting older and didn't want to dress up let along go out with her friends. She went will a small group to the Haunted Forest and they had a great time there she was Tiger which is obvious. It was Damon's at a size 4-6 it looked great on her. She was even mad I took the picture. That is what mothers do keep the memories. Ben & I walked around the neighborhood with Damon and Devon they each got 6 plus pounds of candy. I was a football player which is Devon's football gear. Then on Halloween night I was a Basketball Player. Our neighbor had a great Scary Haunted Garage that their family made. It was a hit around the neighborhood. The boys got to be different costumes for the Trunk r Treat and for the Halloween evening. They were M&M's for school together and then Damon was the skeleton one night and I found a "Cat in the Hat" hat and asked Devon if he wanted to be that and sure enough he did. We all had a great time.

Trunk R Treat - October 27th 2009

2009-10-31T12:09:00.000-07:00

Craig & Lori Holland Ben's Aunt are our Activities Leaders - They did a great job.

Our Ward had their Trunk R Treat party. We had homemade Chili and had the kids trick or treat around the room sense it snowed out side. It was a great time and they all looked scary! We are looking forward to to Halloween night. Have a great evening and Beware!!!!

The kid Group Ben Being a A's Fan

Cutest Couple Homemade Root beer Family came

Little Princess BYU Fan Family

Devil & Angel Family Cuties - IPOD

Some little Frog really enjoyed the party he took a name - Kiss him and he will turn into a prince.

Halloween Cheerleading Compitions - Mindi

2009-10-31T12:02:00.000-07:00

Mindi had cheer leading competitions today at the Lehi High School. Her quad 8th Grade Willow Creek did a great job and they came in 2nd place. Great job Mindi we are so very proud of you. Mindi has straight A's this semester and has done very well in keeping to her commitments and has done a great job. She has one more competition next week at American Fork, go get'm.

1st Day of Snow Fall - Lehi Ut

2009-10-27T11:05:00.000-07:00

We were informed by the weather man/woman here in our area that we were going to expect snow tonight. Well we actually got it now at 12:00 noon. We have our Trunk R Treat ward party tonight and the kids will need a ride home. We are not to excited about living in the snow again. Mindi and Devon have football games and practice tonight and tomorrow. Its going to be cold from now on. We are "NOT" so excited. As I look out the window you can not see across the street and the ground is now white. HAPPY HALLOWEEN

Daddy Daughter Birthday

2009-10-27T10:59:00.000-07:00

It was Ben's and Mindi's Birthday this week. At her age being now 14 yrs old we don't see her much. So as a family we had cake to celebrate. Mindi's friends surprised her and decorated her room. She had a good birthday and mentioned she doesn't feel any older.

Pumpkin Dinner

2009-10-19T20:09:00.001-07:00

I had made Homemade Chili the other night. I was pretty impressed with myself. It had cooked all day long. I had fresh beans. On my way home from work I decided to stop by our local Lehi Bakery and wanted to get some soup bowls. To my surprise they brought out these "Pumpkin" bread bowls. The kids were so excited and we had the best dinner that was very festive.

Cheerleading Performance

2009-10-19T19:50:00.001-07:00

Mindi had her first experience in performing in front of parents and family. She told us she was so nervous her legs were shacking prior to performing. She smiled and had a great time. They will have competitions on October 31st. Good Job Mindi! You did great, we are so proud of you!

Damon's Frist 1k Race

2009-09-19T12:05:00.000-07:00

Before the Race/Finish Line/End of the Race

Mom and Damon/Lily and Damon

Damon came home yesterday Friday 9/18/2009 after school and had a letter given to the parents from his school teacher who runs several races. So late last night we got on to the website and its a children's race in Orem "Racing Cane" 9/19/2009 for children in the Dominican Republic located at Mountain View High School. The race and registration is to start at 8:00 am. Damon was so excited because not only was he to run his first race he gets a consultation price for those who attend. Damon could not wait and talked about going all night. It was some what difficult to get him up and prepare him for what he will be doing. I feed him some toast and grabbed some waters. As we showed up we saw his Teacher Mrs. Rockque and he was so excited to see Damon. We registered and I mean "We" its was the 1K race for "Kids". Damon asked if I would run with him. I was so excited in my mind I remembered the challenge and the nervousness I would have doing High School Cross Country and Track. I could not wait. I even mentioned to Damon next time we can to the 3K which was located on the street. The kids were to run the track twice for the 1K. We waited saw the others coming in and Damon kept asking when is it our turn. I said "Soon". So I had my camera in one hand looked at him and another student "Lily" who came and told the kids "ok here is what I will do, I will run the1st time with you then 2nd time I will meet you at the end of the race to take come pictures. The race started and I could not believe it but Damon was off - he was focused and he wanted to win. I ran the whole first lap behind him watching the back of his head. I was dieing my mind was in good condition but my body was NOT prepared. I couldn't even finish, I was having a hard time breathing I think I even pulled a muscle. I have never felt like that before. I was upset and even disappointed at myself. Damon said after with no hesitation or being out of breath "Mom next time I want to do the 3K with you, but you are going to have to be more prepared!" He was right my goal is to do a triathlon not anytime soon but would like to in the future and being there with Damon having someone enjoy it as I would is now time for me to start training. He is going to work on beating his time. So for his first race his time was 3:54 being 10th overall which is around 50+ kids, 6th in the age category from 7-9, and 3rd place for all 7 aged kids. The first overall had a time of 3:32 he was not to far behind. He blew me away. He received a T-Shirt and a gift certificate to Bajo for attending. He was so excited that he asked when his next race is? He is going to go to school on Monday and show his classmates that he got a T-shirt and a "Bibb" which is the numbers they pin on you for racing. I am now working on training for the next couple of months to start running again. We had a great time. It will be available again next year same time. It is the best family race, first time to attend for those who are interested check it out.

http://www.racingthecane.org/

Pictures of the event will be posted after 5:00 pm. Here are our pictures we took of the event.

Great job DAMON I am very proud of you!

Some What Up to Date

2009-09-04T17:23:00.000-07:00

So we have been pretty busy and we are going everywhere with Devon's football practices, games then Mindi's Cheerleading practices and games. Now that school has started we need to keep their homework schedual up to date. We are enjoying the kids being busy. It was a great summer for the most part. We did a few trips. It was great going to LA and visiting with family even though it was a very short trip.

We love all our friends and family and hope to see adn hear from each one of you soon.

Take care Love the Babcocks
Ben, Rae, Mindi, Devon, & Damon

Mindi 8th Grade Cheerleading

2009-09-04T17:02:00.000-07:00

Mindi is the one on the left - She is a "FLYER"

Family Garage Sale

2009-09-04T16:54:00.000-07:00

We had a family Garage Sale the last two weeks the kids each had their own station and we sold some of our furniture and so we did some remodeling to our home two or three times to each room. We did great as well as the kids but it was sure a "HOT" day.

First Day Of School August 2009

2009-09-04T16:51:00.000-07:00

First Day of School Minid is now in 8th Grade, Devon 5th Grade & Damon in 2nd Grade. Riding their Bikes to school.

Family Lagoon Trip/Water Park & Rides

2009-09-04T16:47:00.000-07:00

Loveland Family Reuion - Hot Springs

2009-09-04T16:44:00.000-07:00

Downey Idaho - Hot Springs Family Reuion

Dedication Quarry Temple

2009-09-04T16:42:00.000-07:00

Legoland Trip 2009

2009-09-04T16:29:00.000-07:00

I didn't forget

2009-07-08T18:17:00.000-07:00

It had been so long I forgot my password. I just found it. I also had my computer repaired for the secound time. I know I have several events and pictures to post and I will defantly set aside those pictures this weekend. I didn't for get I just didn't do it.

Broken Computer Plus more

2009-04-16T18:05:00.000-07:00

When will it never end....My computer has been down with a Virus, Trojan, worm and any other computer problem you can name of. So sense Christmas it doesn't mean I have been completely busy or that we haven't had any activities because we have had plenty to do and had some pictures taken during them. My computer is down and I wish it was fixed. The boys finished up soccer and did really well. Devon even played goalie some games. Damon was a great defender and made several goals when he was playing forward. Mindi make the 8th grade cheer leading team at school. They will be starting practices this week. I have been working and even changed my hours on Wed, Thurs, & Fri to 6:00 am - 3:00 pm the kids love it we get home the same time. The kids have had spring break this week only when you think of having spring break you think of fun in the sun. NO, we get more Snow and storms. Its freezing here in Utah. We are ready for the summer. Other then that we are healthy and doing well.

CHRISTMAS DAY

2009-02-01T13:43:00.000-08:00

We have been out of our house for awhile I wasn't able to post the Christmas pictures up. I had made the kids their PJ's and it was fun. The kids loved it and it was a nice time with all that was going on.

Here are some of the Christmas Pictures that morning. Family Gift was the "Guitar Hero Bank set" Damn wanted more Dinosaurs, Mindi wasn't more pillows and a mirror for her room, and Devon his skate board was what he really wanted. They each got a new Wii game and we exchanged names from our own family and bought each person something. It was a lot of fun. They said it was the "Best Christmas Ever" Hey.

Our House Update

2009-02-01T13:23:00.000-08:00

BEFORE PICTURES OF THE
KITCHEN

During Construction this was our Kitchen and granite corner that was broken

Our new Granite Counter top

We have moved into our home a week ago now. We had to have a new color of granite picked out due to the batch of Vientien Golds being to "Pink" when it is normally a cream color with maroon in it. So Ben went down to the Design Center and picked out a gray, black color that looks great next to our stainless steel appliances. It looks like a whole different kitchen now. When they were installing it they were two inches short when they cut the slab so they had to do it again and was installed last Monday. On top of that every piece of furniture down stairs came off the

EACH OF THESE PIECES ARE BROKEN AND RUINED

moving truck and into our house BROKEN!!!! Yes every piece of furniture in which was bran new and hard to find, due from purchasing it in California or one of a kind and looked perfect in our home. Now its just stuff.....We are in the process of have the insurance come this week and look over the damages and well as what the out come will be. Lets just say that its a heavy price to pay back. On top of that the tile they redid looks so bad that you don't want anyone to come over anymore, grout lines are thick to thin any piece of tile you step on sounds hollow. Our banister to our stairs are still not fixed and will have to all be done sense it was hand stained. You can't do one and not match the other. We will be looking over that this week as well. I thought in back of my mind that having it all done would actually be better then the first time but I had to high of hopes that it keeps getting worse then better for us. I was able to get my car repaired recently so that doesn't look PATCHED back together. Although when they looked under the hood there was a lot more damage then we thought looking at it from the outside. We were with out two cars for almost two weeks. We can't even put pictures or decor back together unknowing what is going to happen and why sense we have to furniture in any of the rooms anymore. We still are in the process to see if our new TV will even work sense they stored it in the Office where there is 6 inches of dust. Just do it right the first time. It has not been a Dream come true in purchasing a home that you thought you would be in love with. I am realizing that there are times when you don't even care and want things to be simple and looking nice. Our home dose not look like that right now. The good part is that the kids appreciate their things and their rooms a lot more knowing that they didn't have them for 3 weeks. We want to thank our friends the Underhills for taking us in when we weren't sure where we were going to go. They have been the best. Thank you

We are still out of our home

2009-01-17T22:00:00.000-08:00

Well there has been so much going on since Christmas. I haven't posted anything sense we had to move out of our house. I can't down load any pictures yet. We have been out of our home for two weeks now. The builder Richmond American Homes is fixing our floors that were sinking. There has been so many things that are broken and need to be fixed while they were working on the house so it became a bigger nightmare then when they started. Our granite was broken off on two corners of our Kitchen so we need all new counter tops. Our cabinets are scratched and have holes in some of them. The walls and corners have dents, scratches and some bashed in. The stair railing and side of our wall was completely hit and almost taken completely off. The railing is wood, and hand stained that is all scratched and will need to be fixed. Our pony wall was hit and is completely off. The tile that was to be installed had 8 boxes broken and needed to order more through LA and never showed up yet. The house is completely full of dust and the carpet has about 8 layers in it to be cleaned. So we are not sure when that will be completed. We have been staying with our friends who live around the block and the kids still able to get to and from school. Its been a challenge but we hope to see the end of it all soon........

More and More Snow

2008-12-23T18:22:00.000-08:00

This was my drive way just to start shoveling. My Shovel even got lost in the snow.

We were told that 4-8 inches of snow was to come and we sure got it. The afternoon turned into these pictures. There were neighbors and other cars stuck in the snow. Push and pulling people out. They still haven't cleared the roads off through our community. Ben got really sick with a virus the flu so he was in bed all day. I went to the store for him to get some 7-up and medicine but in order to do that I had to shovel the three days worth of snow off the drive way to even get our truck out. Two hours later I was able to drive it out and an hour later come back from the store that was only maybe three blocks away. There was so much snow and traffic and of course it was around getting home time from people working. Today he is feeling a little better but not much. I just hope he can rest it off and sleep through the night tonight.

The boys were playing with the neighborhood kids all day for over 8 hours in the snow - CRAZY

Mindi in the drive way

The boys and Mindi walking home all wet from playing

This is the driveway as I just started to find the bottom of it.

The boys used the trampoline as a igloo and it was pretty warm inside. We thought the trampoline had to be put away but they used it for winter wonderland as well as the summer of bouncing.

Devon & Damon on top of the trampoline

This is Damon on top of the snow piles we shoveled. They went sledding down it

This is the driveway after the shoveling

Damon playing with the neighbors

This is in front of our house "We love the snow" Not, we miss the sunny California weather.

Another 4-8 Inches of Snow

2008-12-22T09:37:00.000-08:00

We were going to go sledding, do some running around, or even spend some time with the kids while school break is out but then the storm came and will be here until 6:00 tonight. We are to get another 4-8 inches today. Ben woke up sick with the flu so I am hoping its the 24 hour bug. The kids are out playing in it, building forts and playing with the neighborhood friends. So we are in doors watching movies and staying warm. Here are some beginning of the day pictures.

Cinnamon Rolls for Christmas

2008-12-22T09:32:00.000-08:00

We make Cinnamon Rolls every year for Christmas morning. The kids helped out and couldn't wait to eat one. They turned out really good and having a double oven I was able to cook them all at once with no waiting. We made 6 pan fulls so we will have them for a couple of days. Yum Yum they are good.

Caught Edgar

2008-12-22T09:27:00.000-08:00

So we caught Edgar Saturday night after being at our friends house. He tried pushing himself off the sticky Matt. Yesterday afternoon while we were eating dinner Ben found another larger one so we are on the look out to get this one out now too.

A New Family Friend

2008-12-20T09:39:00.000-08:00

We have a new family friend a mouse and no its not Mickey Mouse. We found in our house around Halloween time. The kids have had their candy or what ever they hide in their rooms eaten. Lately we have seen him running from room to room, bathrooms and cupboards. He has recently been underneath the refrigerator. Mindi named him "Edgar". Yesterday we all went to the store together to get a mouse trap. Last night Ben was still up past midnight and the mouse had eaten the peanut butter off the trap and the trap just stayed there on the floor, the stinker even pushed the trap around the floor and moved it. So Ben went to the store and bought the sticky stuff to catch him we have not caught him yet. We just hope there aren't more of his friends around......He will be gone soon.....!!!

More Snow for Christmas

2008-12-20T09:30:00.000-08:00

We had a huge amount of snow fall on us yesterday the kids are loving it, mom and dad not so much. So they made a fort with the trampoline and made jumps in front of our home for the sledding and snow boarding.

The boys will be boys what can me build or make next.

We made our Christmas Tree

2008-12-20T09:24:00.000-08:00

We decorated our "Decor Tree" that was in our family room. The kids had so much fun. We put it in our Bonus room this year sense we are not sure when or where we will be living and it would be the easiest to clean up when we move out.

We had a great time its our favorite tree.

Santa Clause Visits

2008-12-15T06:52:00.000-08:00

We had our ward Christmas Party and this year they did a breakfast. Ben and I are on the Activities Commitee. I was up bright and early cooking 500 eggs or so. Everyone enjoyed it and got out of bed to eat so it was great. Here are the pictures with Santa.

He was a cute santa also

Christmas Decorating

2008-12-12T16:45:00.000-08:00

Damon so wanted to decorate for the Christmas season. We have talked to him and the others over and over about how we will have to pack up and move out before Christmas. So we agreed that he could decorate his room. Once he showed the other two kids they to wanted to decorate their own rooms. So this is Damon's finished product.

The theme to his room is Dinosaurs if you haven't noticed so we Incorporated the Christmas theme with them. He enjoyed it and I enjoyed watching him. He is so excited and the other kids joined in and finished their rooms also. More pictures to come later.

Christmas Time Is Here

2008-12-12T16:28:00.000-08:00

We have the best of friends. We as a family always getting a real tree for Christmas. Well this year we are not. We are having to move out of our home so that the builder that we bought our house from can fix our foundation. We had the foundation tested and there is 68% moisture in the soil and they are having to dig 18 inches down to fill it with gravel, and restructure it so that the floor will not sink anymore. We have the whole down stairs tiled with 18X18 tiles and they are unable to match it. So they are having to tear out all of the tile and relay it all back down. So this means they have to move all our furniture out and out we go. We are still in negotiations sense they did not have a plan for us to go some where. We got the testing done back August and it was to be done prior to Thanksgiving and now it will be Christmas. I just want it done and no more delays. So that is why we are pushing to get it done. In the mean time we do not have any plans, nor decorating for the holidays sense we are packing. So our dear friends Jake and Sayra Underhill and their two girls Tiffany & Kayla invited us to decorate their tree. The kids were so excited and enjoyed every ordainment they put on the tree.

Devon putting some on the higher areas. Tiffany and Damon showing us what they are going to hang on the tree.

Then the girls they sure and place them so nicely where they will look the best.

The final product you can never go wrong with decorating your Christmas Tree

After the decor ting was over we all went to Temple Square to see the lights. It was a colder night so we had to pull out all the coats and gloves, hats to stay warm. The lights were beautiful and the kids loved walking around.

Me & Sayra our great friends

We made hot coco and took it with us

We had coco and cookies and then drove back home. The best part is they love the story in the visitor center that moves from room to room that shares how important family is. We love our family and our friends.

The Day At The Museum

2008-12-12T16:16:00.000-08:00

Devon had a 4th Grade Field trip in witch I was able to go and help out. We went to a museum at BYU and these are actual pictures of once live animals that are now preserved. Devon had a great time and enjoyed taking pictures of almost everyone he saw.

Devon next to a Lion

These are all different species of Butterflies creating an artistic butterfly

They were so large it would be something if they came up to you alive. Its amazing
This porcupine is actually ready to shoot out its spikes
We had a great day at "BYU" all the kids on the bus shouted the whole way there "BYU, BYU" and even worse Blue sense we are not from Utah and neither Ben nor I went to the Y it was definitely a different and Loud experience. I was glad to have some time with him and meet all his friends in his classroom. It was a great day.

Thanksgiving 2008

2008-12-12T16:11:00.000-08:00

We spent Thanksgiving with my sister Ann & her family, her husband Richie and their little guy Nathan. The kids helped bake the pies the night before and they all enjoyed eating it all the next day. We had a great time with them and the food was great!

Richie carving the Turkey - YUM

They really did have a great time.

After eating and relaxing watching a movie

New Apron - Dress Up

2008-11-25T15:43:00.000-08:00

I have finally finished Mindi's Apron. It always seems that you do your families last and everyone else first. It is one of my favorites. It was a surprise, she is helping her Aunt Ann make some pies for Thanksgiving tomorrow so I wanted to make sure she had an apron to cook with. So I finished it. It is listed below under "U Wear On Me" with the others.

Things got worse

2008-11-20T11:49:00.000-08:00

Just when I thought things couldn't get anymore worse they did. I am now with out a job. I am looking and have had two interviews and two more lined up. I thought the worst was over and couldn't see the end of the tunnel. Today I feel confident and good that the best was to come for me. There are times when you think the door is shout and another one will open. It defiantly has been a challenging year and I am looking forward to it ending. I am doing fine. Resume on line. If anyone has anything available. I am in Accounting/Cost Accounting/Office Manager/Purchasing Agent/ and Staff Accounting areas. I will defiantly keep you posted but we are doing fine for now. I think I am over the shock of anything else. We will be moving out of our home in the next week. Richmond American Homes has to gut out our foundation and re pour the slab. The whole down stairs in Tile 18X18 which there is no match to patch so now they will have to redo the whole down stairs. It has been such a stressful thing and will be glad when that part is over also. We will be out for over 5 weeks I am sure. We still need to sit down and meet with them. We have to be close to the schools for the kids to get to and from. That is about all for now. I guess its enough. See someones life could always be worse off then yours. Wish us luck !

Happy 7th Birthday Party Damon

2008-11-16T17:47:00.001-08:00

Damon had his first birthday party. It was Dinosaurs which is still his favorite thing. He was so excited. He invited 4 of his classroom friends and then our neighbors. We started at our house for putting puzzle together and some games. We then headed off to the bowling ally so that we all good play one game. It was the girls against the boys.

This was the coolest cake it even popped out and roared and his eyes lit up.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY DAMON We love you!!!

Things just got worse

2008-11-16T16:02:00.000-08:00

As if things couldn't get worse. I was in a car accident a week or so ago now. It was the first snow fall and it was something totally stupid. Things happen I guess and I went through a stop sign. I hit a truck. We were both OK and the damages could have been worse but we were physically OK. Mentally not so good. We got the estimate on my car. Its $1,500.00 and still drivable. I now have traffic school to take. It took me over a week to drive again. On top of that day Ben and I were at work on Friday and get a call from the school that Devon had knocked all his front teeth out. So we both left to see what he had to take care of with him. The incident happened at 9:00 from West Bountiful to Lehi and when we finally picked him up it was 11:45. He felt bad, and didn't want any one to look at him. I looked at it and his front tooth was completely broken off and two next to it were chipped. I had called a local dentist and asked for an emergency visit. We had just gotten insurance on November 1st so that was a hidden blessing. So Devon and I spent 5 hours in the Dentist office while creating new teeth. The dentist was great, the office team was so good with him. He was pretty nervous. He had played with his mouth when they numbed it. He did very good and was glad it was finally over. He is now having to change his whole way of eating. Never being able to eat an apple or carrots. Nothing hard and everything soft. He is adapting well. After pictures will come later. We got busy.

Damon's Football Party

2008-11-16T15:57:00.000-08:00

The season is over. Devon has a great year and there were no accidents or injuries. Devon has been a bigger kids but full of strength and solid muscle. Last year when he was playing football he weight in at 110. This year he wanted to run the ball so bad and not be an X man that he worked harder then ever and watched what he ate. He almost made it at 94 pounds for the goal weight he was 95 at weigh ins so he was still an X man. He has lost 20 pounds. He looks and feels great. He is ready for next year. We had a football party at Boondocks with the whole team. It was a lot of fun. Here is his award. Great year Devon.

Family Pictures

2008-11-01T18:52:00.000-07:00

I want to personally thank Megan Whintel who took our family pictures this year. She is our neighbor and dear friend. We love you Megan. Thank you again for your help and getting the one day we had opened to getting what we could done. It was a great day but as usual some are not so cooperative then others when are tiring to capture the moment. So these are few of our new family photos. Still more to come and still needing to order. We thank you Megan for it.

http://mwphotography.lifepics.com/net/Pro/Default.aspx

HALLOWEEN 2008

2008-11-01T17:51:00.000-07:00

HAPPY HALLOWEEN

We had made it through another year. The kids were so excited and even had costume changes through out the day. Every year I dress up with them. I usually wear costumes to work and have the parties. I took work off to spend the day at the kids school parties. We had a great busy day.

Devon - Ghoul Bryson - The Joker (friends) Damon - Spider man

Damon in his class Halloween Party. They played Ghost bingo ,eat cupcakes, make a pumpkin and colored pictures.

Damon's whole 1st Grade Classroom

Then it was on to the next party. Devon in his 4th grade class. We ate "Lizard tongues" who could eat a fruit roll up the fastest. Devon won this group.
They played Halloween bingo as well.

At 5:00 I helped set up the Church "Trunk or Treat" sense our calling is Ward Activities Assistance's. (don't you love Utah wards, they find any calling for anything) I dressed up as a Witch, Damon then became the "Green Goblin" and Devon a zombie "Hip Hop Dancer"

Rachel & Sayra - our dear family friend.

Teenagers. Gosh this year was a rough one for us. Mindi told us last minute she wanted to dress up as "Dorthy the Wizard of Oz" then she didn't then the night before we found one but then she didn't want to where it to school, she had been grounded already so we had decided not to buy it. Then last minute her and her neighborhood friend Brittney decided to stuff these old costumes we had and go out together. They look really cute. "Girls" they change their minds last minute so much it drives us crazy.

Mindi had several old costumes and so our friends and neighbors of all ages came over and borrowed them all. Here are a few of them.

Tiffany - Mulan our friends youngest daughter

Kayla our friends daughter who also borrowed Mindi's costume "A Hip Hop Singer" & Ms Dracula

Ann & Richie with Nathan came over for our Church party. We served Chilli and then had our Trunk or Treat party. We ended up having rain but it didn't stop anyone from having fun. I would rather have the rain over the snow any day. It was a great night out.

Lelo & Stitch and Richie FBI

Then after taking the kids out Trick or Treating, after they made three trips back home to dump the candy and go back out. Sayra, Jake, Ben & I went to a club down town Salt Lake City. We had so much fun. We thought that we were young again. For those who know me we used to go to the Dance clubs every where, every week end. When the music starts playing I can't stop moving. I do have to say that we are not young anymore and today we are recovering from an all night event. I am sore, and wearing high hills for three hours dancing definitely looked good but after words does not feel so great. We actually ran into some old friends from when Ben and I were dating at Rick's College Todd & Blake and were Bens friends from when he lived in Virgina Beach, Virgina so that was defiantly weird. A blast from the past. We had a great time.

Sayra & Jake
Rachel & Ben
Until next year. Hope everyone else had a great year as we did. Take care.

Halloween Pumpkins

2008-10-26T16:54:00.000-07:00

THE PUMPKIN PATCH

Damon & Devon Craving the Pumpkins

Damon getting into it

Every year we pick pumpkins out and we carve them. Devon happens to always pick the biggest one and loves to carve them. Damon went on a field trip and picked a white one out to make a ghost Pumpkin. Here are the finished products.

Damon's Ghost Pumpkin

Devon's Pumpkin

Damon's Pumpkin

Mindi's Pumpkin Flamingo with a Palm tree

Tribute to Grandpa Bruce Morgan

2008-10-26T14:52:00.001-07:00

Grandpa Morgan died on October 19th 2008 this is in his memory. Our family was not able to attend the funeral in Modesto California located in Northern California. He had his funeral service Saturday the 25th. We want to share a few things about him and to know that we loved him very much and will miss him. We had the opportunity to live with Grandpa & Grandma for several years in San Ramon, CA. He was always watching sports and Ben and him would talk about it all day long if they could. He owned several paper routes of the Chronicle in which Ben would work for him while we were living there. He loved having family around. He would tease the boys all the time and call them "Trouble". He and grandma loved to take trips and go to restaurants to enjoy each others company. We truly love and appreciate him and will keep the memories in our heart.

This was our wedding luncheon May 1995
Maui 1995 Ben and I on our honeymoon we meet grandpa & Grandma there

Maui Trip 1995
Grandma & Grandpa Morgan in Maui 1995 Cl if House Restaurant
In Loving Memory Grandpa Bruce Morgan we love you dearly.

Ben's Birthday - Looking back in time

2008-10-26T14:42:00.000-07:00

Ben and I dated in College before he left on his mission. He then came home Dec. 9th 1995 and not to much later we were engaged and married. Here is a look back in time. Ben's birthday was October 20th now being 35 here is a small look back. We love you Ben. You are loving, family oriented, giving, we love to be around each other more and more. I love you and appreciate all that you have done for us. Thank you and HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU

Ben arriving home from his mission

Ben and I went skiing in Tahoe 1994

Trip to San Francisco 8-12-1995

An Engagement picture One of the Engagement Pictures we took

Tahoe April 1995
Tahoe 1995
Wedding Picture 1995

Honeymoon picture in Maui 1995

Mindi's 1st Years: 13 Now

2008-10-26T14:31:00.000-07:00

Mindi at our one bedroom apt in Idaho

Ben & I with Mindi in Idhao

Mindi at the park

Family Picture In Salt Lake City

Mindi Mini Mouse for Halloween

Mindi turned 13 on October 20 the same day as her dad's birthday. She was born in Rexburg Idaho while Ben was finishing up his schooling. She was born on a Saturday afternoon and only 2 hrs she was came out into the first day of snow. She then attended a football game that Ben was in that week. Mindi is happy, independent, moody, started walking at 8 1/2 months old. She was 8'2 19 inches long. She has always been daddies little girl. She is very bright has a lot of friends. She is very giving and carring of others around her. There are newmorious times as she has gotten older that she begins to cry with out even starting a conversation. Girls are so moody. We love having her around when she is home. She has experianced living in several places and I want her to know we love her very much. Here is a look back in time for Mindi's First years.

Mindi's First Birthday

Her blessing day in Northern California with Family 4 generation picture

Birthday Bowling Ben & Mindi Oct 20th

2008-10-26T13:10:00.001-07:00

We as a family love to go bowling and it had been a long time sense we had last went. Damon had asked for several weeks when we would be able to go or if we could do a Family Home Evening night. So for Ben & Mindi's Birthday we did just that. We went Bowling.

Mom BowlingBen & Rae

Mindi, Damon, & Devon

Mindi Bowling

The Kids getting their bowling balls ready

Waiting for our turn

Devon bowling. Our family loves to bowl. It had been over a year sense we last went. So for Ben's & Mindi's birthday sense they are on the same day we went bowling to celebrate October 20th 2008 was at Jack & Jill's in American Fork.

Go Damon!

Damon & Ben

Ben of course won us all with his turkeys and spins.

Score board

THRILLER

2008-10-26T12:54:00.001-07:00

At the University of Utah concerte hall called "Kingsbury Hall" there are many performances done through out the year. This one is called "Thriller" with a Halloween theme to it. I had taken Ben last year for his birthday so we surprised all the kids and took them on October 18 2008 to see the show.

The kids tried guessing but had no idea where we were going. Driving to Salt Lake and coming to the concerte hall they weren't sure what was in store. Through out the concerte hall the kids saw old pictures and others who once acted in the hall such as "Donny Osmand" etc. The person who set it up was a Mrs. Bababcok who was a Speech Pathologist and started the program way back in the day. So the kids were excited to see their last night around the concerte hall while waiting to be setted.

There were people from the show that were dressed up as Zombies and befor the show started they would go around in the audiance and scare people. The kids just watched to see what they would do but they were pretty good with the younger crowds. They were pretty scared not really knowing what to expect. The show lasted about 2 hrs and the kids loved it. They talked about it for two days. It was a great evening out as a family. If you are able to be in the area you should see this show its amazing and fun.

Weather is now pretty much cold

2008-10-12T11:06:00.001-07:00

Well two days a go Damon was out playing with his friend Tucker out front of our house building a fort. It was getting fairly colder but able to be a clear day to play out side.

Then as you can see it the back ground of the mountains there was snow already on the tips of them. Well today October 12, 2008 was our first Snow fall and it looked like this.

Damon built this snowman with hair and eyes.

Damon's Soccer Year 2008

2008-10-12T11:00:00.000-07:00

Damon did great. He had about two to three goals a game. He loved running around every where getting the ball. He had a great time and can't wait until next year. We played all positions and learned what a Defence & Offense is. They had a good team. They won all the games even though they don't keep track at this age. If you are a Babcock we are very competitive and love to win. We still have fun no matter what the end results are. So here are Damon's Pictures.

Devon's Football Games

2008-10-12T10:52:00.000-07:00

The end is near. We have one more game left. The last two games have been in the cold pouring down rain. Yesturday we had some snow and it was cold. He did a great season and learned a lot more then last year. He is ready to run the ball more and be at weight for next season. Here are a few shots of this year.

New Background

2008-10-09T18:28:00.000-07:00

Damon and I were on the computer together. He picked the background out with me. We had some time together, it was fun. So happy OCTOBER & HAPPY HALLOWEEN

Damon Gets more goals.

2008-09-08T17:50:00.000-07:00

I didn't get it together last week and it was crazy but Damon got three more goals. He was so excited. Their whole team had each person get a goal. It was a pretty sad sight. We got about 14 goals to 1. You can really see how the kids either dribble the ball or stand in a group. The girls usually are friends and hold hands.

FOOTBALL WIN!!!

2008-09-08T17:48:00.001-07:00

Well we did so well. The game was so much fun to watch. The defense was doing their job. The offense did their job and we won 47-0. Devon did really well and played both sides. He is really tring to prove himself. They are sure getting good together and working as a team. We will be ready to play again next week.

Football Games - DEVON

2008-09-01T07:30:00.001-07:00

Devon has now had two games. The first game was at Juan Deago and is a turf/grass field in Draper. We played the team that has all of the guys that were on our team last year. They are on a new Saratoga Team. Our team has a lot of new guys playing who have never played before. Devon is one out of 5 who played together last year. We did pretty good, we lost by one. This past weekend we won by 5. They were so excited we poured the water container on Coach. Devon is an X man and played this position last year. He weighted in at 110 pounds. This year he worked really hard and is now 94 pounds and is at weight. He is trying different positions as offensive Line. He is learning more of the plays and is enjoying the game more this year.

Here he is on the side lines with his team mates.

Playing in the game

They are getting ready to begin playing

Coaches are you READY!

GO LEHI PIONEERS!!!

Damon's 2nd Game

2008-08-29T07:36:00.000-07:00

Damon had another game and he was playing full back. He took the ball and dribbled it all the way up weaving in and out and ended up making three more goals in this game. I was running around after work, getting Devon to football, Damon to Soccer pictures then his game that I didn't have my camera or video camera. It was so awesome. Score was 6 - 3. Great job Damon!

Family Time

2008-08-25T21:52:00.000-07:00

I finished dinner and got the kids ready for a family time out. We got our closest friends the Underhills with their two daughters and we went to a near by park down the street from our home. I was so excited to spend quality time, have fun, smile and laugh. The first 30 minutes were great. We played football with Devon the kids played on the play ground then we all got together formed two teams and played football. As most of you know the Babcock's can and are very competitive and it got out of hand. Devon and Mindi usually or Devon and Damon. Isn't that what it is with siblings. They started to hit, yell, fight and so we had to end on a downer note. We had a huge family discussion over dinner at home. Family is to be loved, enjoyed and talked to nicely. They took showers and went to bed. We finished Devon's homework that he needed help with by 10:00 and then off to bed he went. We really need to get to bed earlier. There are not enough hours in the day to work with three kids and their activities. We are still tiring to juggle it all. A new day tomorrow. Thank you guys I had a great time!!! Love Mom.

School Supplies

2008-08-22T20:49:00.000-07:00

I don't know about you but can I just say that it was quite the challenge taking my teenage daughter to the store to get school supplies for Middle School. I had also taken my 1st grader Damon with me. She had to have the hippest, best looking Pink binder that didn't fit her paper work. Then she needed the best, coolest pens, and things she needed we couldn't find. This was just the start of the first day of classes. The next day were the other classes. For those who know me I HATE TO SHOP!!!! So this was not exciting for me. As we were checking out Damon was so helpful that he put things he wanted in the cart and helped put them on the counter to check out for me so when I unpacked the bags he had new erasers, new pencils, and needless to say his answer to me was "Well I needed my own school supplies also". Next time he will not go to be helpful. He was excited to take them to school. He mentioned to me that the best time of day at school is lunch. One because he is so hungry that he is starving and two because they get to eat in the cafeteria or buy food sense first grades are now in school all day. The little things that make life great.

Finished Home

2008-08-22T20:46:00.001-07:00

I had cleaned the whole house today. I had never taken pictures of the final product. I don't know about you but after spending a whole day cleaning a home this size it was well worth taking some pictures. So for those who have not seen it or those who have. This is the Babcocks House. Until new adventures.

The Babcock House

2008-08-22T20:41:00.001-07:00

Damons Soccer Game #2

2008-08-19T18:27:00.000-07:00

Damon had his secound game today at 5:30 he was so excited. It was a hot one. He scored another goal. Good job Damon! His team won another game.

SCHOOL STARTED

2008-08-19T18:23:00.001-07:00

School has started for us as of August 18th. I can't believe the summer has ended. The kids were so excited to go that they woke up so early. Devon and Damon rode their skateboard and bike. Mindi is now in Middle school and walks to and from with a group of her friends from the community. She was pretty nervous at first but seems to be doing well. She likes all her classes and has learned to use her locker. We weren't able to get a pictures of her yet. She is usually on the go!

Lagoon Family Trip

2008-08-19T18:05:00.001-07:00

We finally made it to Lagoon. The kids have been waiting sense we moved here. Mindi had a Season Pass last year with some of her friends. On top of us going it was also "Coke Cola's" Company party. We had a great time. I had been there when I was 10 and there are so many more things you can do that I didn't remember before.

The funniest is when we were in a show and saw our cusion Jessica Van Dyke there. We then saw Michelle and Mathew with their families later that evening. It was good to say hello but what a crazy chance that day to see them there.

We all took turns riding rides. There were some that Damon couldn't ride still.

Damon and I rode the train that showed several animals through out the ride. We happened to get stuck and was stopped for over 20 minutes for what ever reason they could not provide any details. So Damon tired taking a nap-HAHA

The weather was great and the park had several trees for shade. Devon liked to do several faces through out the day in each pictures but really they all had fun. All three of the kids road the wheel ride. It spins you around and around. It was towards the end of the day. I rode most of the roller coaster rides and by then I was done. I couldn't ride any more.

We had a great time. We would like to go again next year. There was so much to do and the lines weren't do bad. We had a great Saturday from 11:00-8:00 pm. We came home and crashed.

Damon Started Soccer

2008-08-12T20:09:00.000-07:00

Damon had his first game today. He made the first goal in the first 5 minutes. He loves to run and get the ball. I had the camera in the car but was running late from getting home from work and didn't grab it. I will take pictures next game. We had a great time watching him. Go Damon. After the game was over he comes up to Ben and I and says "that is one dollar for me for the goal I made". Great job!!

Ben & Shauna's Family Visits

2008-08-05T20:37:00.001-07:00

Devon & Corey

Devon as the leader

We had a BBQ at Davids house in Sandy. Ben & Shauna came to visit from LA. Corey their Son and Daina played with all the rest of the kids. It was pretty funny to see. There were races down the hill. Some went swimming in their little pool. Then it became a mud fight. We had a great time getting together.

Football Season Again - Go Devon

2008-08-05T20:32:00.000-07:00

Football Season has started. Devon has had his frist week of practice and loves it. He has lost 10 pounds sense last season and is still playing the line. He is an X man. He would love to play the ball but he is wining all the tackles. Our first game will be August 23rd. We have a great team this year. Lets go win it!

Slumber Party

2008-08-05T20:25:00.001-07:00

It was just last week on Thursday night when I saw the kids outside watching a movie and were all ready for bed. I laid with them and left at 12:00 to my bed. I found out later the next day that by 2:00-3:00 am they all had got into the house and into their beds. It was such a clear night.

American Canyon Hike

2008-07-28T18:39:00.000-07:00

We took a hiking trip up the American Canyon in Timponages area. We hiked for over 2 hours and then it started raining on us on the way down. The hike was nice and refreshing. The kids sang songs on the way down. We went with our closest friends Jake and Sayra with their two girls Kayla & Tiffany. We all had a great time and the exercise is defiantly fun out side of our every day routine. We will start sooner and hike longer and higher next time.

This is as we were hiking up the trail

Before it started to rain

The group of kids

Look how steep the hiking trail was

Its so green and peaceful

This looks like a fake back ground but its where we were

Sayra & I

This was Mindi our teenage daughter the whole way down. As you can see she smiled the first hour then got in trouble for picking on the kids. So the rest of the hike she was upset and listened to her I Pod. I know she told her friends how cool it was and was glad she went with the family. She will never admit it to her parents. We love her anyway.

Entertainment In Utah

2008-07-28T18:35:00.001-07:00

The Entertainment in Utah is to have a trampoline So for Devon's Birthday we got one. The kids jump on it until 11:00 at night. They have been having water on it to cool of the Utah heat of over a 100 degree temperatures.

I myself have even done a few front flips. Its been quit some time but its been a lot of fun.

Kids in the Tub

2008-07-24T10:50:00.001-07:00

So as you were younger your mom would take pictures of you in the Tub all together. One night the kids were in my bathroom playing in the tub. I guess it was more like a hot tub. So I guess they are still young at heart.

July Birthday Luncheon

2008-07-24T10:34:00.001-07:00

On July 19th we celebrated all the July Birthday's at Aunt Norma Jean's house. We had almost everyone there and ate lunch at of course some cake. We don't see them very often so it was a nice visit with everyone. Those who weren't there and couldn't make it maybe next time.

Ben and Nathan. He tries standing on his own and can hold himself up pretty well until he falls over. Ben was playing with him while the parents ate.

Mark and Lori we always have some much funny being around them and talking. They aren't to far away and should do more together. It was great seeing you guys.

Bailey and Hadley its always fun to see the girls. They are getting so much taller and older. Ethan is all boy. Plays all day and gets into everything. Its fun to see him walking.

Grandma Rogers, Ann and Aunt Norma Jean eating lunch. Don't you love it when we all take pictures of us eating. We had those pictures all the time growing up.

David, Claire, Bailey, Hadley and Ethan DeVroom

Richie, Ann, & Nathan Snow

Lori & Mark Larsen

The Birthday Group Devon, Grandma, Mark & Rachel

Thank you Aunt Norma Jean it was so much fun and the kids loved playing Ping pong. We will have to plan one again. We love you guys.

Devon's 10th Birthday Party

2008-07-24T09:54:00.000-07:00

It was a "Game Night" Party for

Devon's 10th Birthday. We had it at our home. There were about 10

kids and several games to play here

were some of them. I decided to make the

cakes this year. Devon loved them so that
is all that matters. Basketballs and a

Basketball hoop.

There were several different games we played. They were who could throw the

most baskets, who can throw a football the furthest, a skateboarding race.

Then it was inside for Air Hockey and Fuzzball. They would switch every 15 minutes for a new game and partners.

We ate pizza for dinner and opened gifts. Here were some of the ones

Devon received. It was a great time.

Cake was next. They ate almost all of it. I had the basketballs left and game them to neighbors.

At the end of the day Devon got his gift from the family. A TRAMPOLINE they are all on it everyday now.

He and all his friends had a great time. HAPPY BIRTHDAY DEVON.

Reunion Picnic

2008-07-19T10:19:00.000-07:00

Here are the pictures from the picnic enjoy
THE WHOLE GANG

Old Friends SCAM Reunion

2008-06-29T14:52:00.000-07:00

I can't believe how long it has been sense we have all seen each other? To long and several kids later. So we just had a Reunion Friday evening at "Discovery Park" in Pleasant Grove Utah. Its right down from Sarah Moulders (Fosse) House. I am still getting the pictures back but until then please look at Sarah's they are the best.

http://mouldies.blogspot.com/

When we got home my kids were asking me so who were those people? From where? I have never seen them before. Some they have meet before but others I haven't even seen sense Hight School so I told them I would show them some High School pictures of what they looked like back then. So here they are - share the memories.

Here is to memories and here are a few I found so far.

Lance & Greg Gordon at "Youth Conference Walnut Creek California June 1991. The year we all Graduated from San Ramon Valley High.

Leah Fosse, Rachel Babcock (DeVroom) & Jenny Stapley at Youth Conference June 1991. We were always having fun somewhere with everyone. I don't remember being home much. We had such a great group of friends. We defiantly need to stay in contact no matter where we are or go.

Ok Amanda & Sarah your going to love this one. This was taken at Amanda's House in Danville CA. It was our Senior Ball Dance May 1991. Look at the style they are all coming back in today! I have more but I got tired of scanning. They are quite old. I thought you would like to take it back and relive the moments. HAHALast day of school signing year books June 1991 J.J. Lowe & Greg Gordon

J.J. will enjoy this one you will have to share this with your kids. The "Stay Way" Kari Hagen and I did this to his car for his birthday 1990. It was covered with Cake froasting and starbursts. We had such great friends.

One of are many trips and outtings. Amanda, J.J. & I went to the Oakland Temple. The one with J.J. and the guy I can't remember the guy. THEN: Senior Pictures 1991

NOW: Rachel & daughter Mindi 12 August 2007

I would have to say that I am getting better with time........HAHA

Utah Locations 6/25/08

2008-06-27T11:51:00.000-07:00

Summer time programs. I have been making a list of things we can do during the summer so we took the time and went on Wednesday. It was a great spiritual learning experience for everyone. We went with Sayra Underhill our friends with her two girls Kayla & Tiffany.

We started at the New Conference Center we had not been through it before. There were several art pieces, paintings, water falls, and sculpture's. They all enjoyed the view from the roof garden.

View from the Roof Garden:

Art pieces:

There were the original paintings for the scripture stories we all use for our Primary lessons and visualizing any story.

More Art Pieces

The Girls & the other one is an actual picture of people that was laser in stone.

The Conference Center

Waterfall from the Conference Center Inside/Conference Center Inside sitting

They had an organ recital during the time we were there so we were able to listen to it live.

We then went on Temple square. We went into the visitor center and watched a few family movies. It was such a hot day 98 that we would take breaks em between each area in the buildings to cool off. The kids were troopers.

The kids together/Devon and I he was so warm and loving the whole day. He enjoyed every moment. There are days when I wonder what Devon will do and become. He is so independent. I did find his "Blessing" notes when he was first born and it says he will serve a full time mission and teach those around him of the gospel and well as being a loving servant. I keep that in my mind at all times as each day we have decisions and choice's in teaching our children. Its our responsibility that he will complete those.

The Salt Lake City Temple. It has always been my favorite Temple. The kids were wanting to go in. They have been through 4 Temple Open Houses so they thought we could go through this one. We explained the differences of when and who and explained to them how important their chooses in life are now.

Our last stop and the most exciting for the kids was Bringham Young's house next to the "Lion House" which is now a restaurant. They are still talking about all the different things they saw. Devon has always been impressed with "Mansions" large homes and loved this one as well as the one across the street from the conference center. He took the picture to have. Grandpa & Grandma DeVroom lived up the road from it and we would see if every time we visited them on B Street.

Once we were all in and finished the tour we didn't even get a picture of the house outside. So these are some items we saw inside. The dresses they would ware to a play or opera. We go to movies now. The two white ones were a blessing dress and a baptism dress. Then the long small white dress was Bringham's youngest daughter who married at 21. In those days it was an old maid already. Her shoe size was a "3" she was very small. One of the stoves they would cook on. They had this large one and two other smaller ones. Bringham Young's wife always had a pot of stew made for any travelers or anyone who would stop by unexpectedly. They themselves had 7 children. The last one was a formal dining room where they would entertain guest. They were very important guests that would visit. They even had two piano's. Now days a few of us don't even have one piano of any kind in our homes. It was so grand.

I had remembered going through this exact same house about the same age as Devon 10 when we would visit Utah, relatives. It was a great day and the kids defiantly loved the experience as much as I did. Reflecting on the past and the things they used for their means was amazing. Our world now with our own kids growing up the market having things of electronics, everyone has one, in which they are not to last long so you will purchase the item again or get something else. In a lot of ways I try teaching the kids that those things aren't important. In a video we watched there were three things they mentioned for families and the church. Along the lines of the Church proclamation and they are Love, Eternity, Heavenly Father. With these things you shall receive blessings and love in your home. I reflect on the years we have been married with our family and the experiences we go through. As the scriptures learning from the past helps the present and the success of our future. We have struggles and challenges but with these things and the gospel I believe and have seen that you can get through anything and have success. Sometimes we take steps backwards to get forward. Things happen for a reason and we will pursue no matter what anyone goes through. I recommend a trip as the one we went on.

Skateboard Day

2008-06-27T11:31:00.001-07:00

June 21 was Skateboard Day. A neighbor JT and Devon went to three skate parks to meet and skate with pro skaters and hang out with the big boys who did the tricks.

He was so excited. He had skateboarded sense he was three. Way before he could ride a bike. He rides and dose jumps through the neighborhood. So the two of them went to the Provo Skatepark, Orem Skatepark, then to the American Fork park.

Mikey Taylor

I took them to the last one and they had the tick completion. They handed out more free t-shirts and got to practice their own tricks. He still can't stop talking about it. It was a great day.

Devon & JT at the Skate Park JT doing his trick

Lets go Batter! Softball Games

2008-06-27T11:22:00.000-07:00

Ben played on a softball league with his friend Jake. The first few games were just as good as my soccer games. "Bad" then they got better with each game. They would be every Wednesday night. Most of the nights would snow, rain or be postponed to play. Through out the week each day would be sunny, great until Wednesday we would all know that the weather would not permit them to play. So June 25th was their last game. They had a great time and will play again.

Ben swing, hit & run to 1st Base:

Jake at the dug out Lets go Jake!

Damon's First Tooth & 2nd & 3rd

2008-06-27T11:09:00.001-07:00

Damon has had one tooth on the top loose and ready to come out but would not budge for a long time. Then he mentioned to us he had two at the bottom that were loose. So on June 20th he wiggled his first tooth out it was the bottom one. The tooth fairy came and he received $1.00.

A few days later on June 22 he had the top one that he had been trying to get out come out. You can tell by the picture it started to look like he had a fang or odd looking tooth. The tooth fairy came and he received $1.50

After loosing two the next day the bottom fell out and now he had a whole in the front of his mouth. I said that he will most likely have a hole for pictures in August for school. He received $1.75 for his third tooth. He now thinks that by getting money he had to loose teeth. Kids do not try this at home. Teeth need to stay in your mouth until they are ready to come out and after that you only get one set so the longer you leave them there the longer you will have "Real" teeth. You can earn money doing other things. In which he is now selling Lemonade with Devon making $15.00 an hour. Go to work, just kidding great job guys.

Tiffany's Birthday Party 6/14/08

2008-06-27T10:57:00.000-07:00

Birthday Girl & Sister Kayla
Our close friends daughter Tiffany turned 5 and we went to the community pool here. We had a great time. There are lab

Pools, slides and a wading pool. We played tag and had dinner by the pool. It was a great Birthday Thank you Tiffany for such a fun party.

Damon at the slide & The Water Bucket

Mindi at Girls Camp

2008-06-26T18:56:00.000-07:00

Girls Camp gosh I remember the day so clear when I went. I had just moved to Danville, CA in Northern California from Glendora CA in the Southern part of California my Freshman year. It was located in the Seirra's Tahoe at a place called "Rucker Lake". I meet my closest friends there and hung out with them in High School. It was Amanda Rassmusen, Sarah Fosse, Allison Hall, Laina Baxter. Gosh we even snuck the guys up to camp one year and almost got sent home early. Boy what were we thinking back then? It was sure fun and long lasted memories. I will have to pull up those pictures again!

Moving here to Utah and Mindi being a Behive she was some what nervious and I didn't know what to exepect in a new area. She was gone from June 10th through June 13th. Unfortantly living in Utah now they defantly got two days of full falling snow and it was completely cold. One day was "Wacky Hair Day" in which the girls did their hair crazy in the wilderness. The great part is that she meet more friends and learned more about testemonies and being closer to the church. She is defantly a great friend and example to others around her. We love you Mindi.

Rae's Soccer Games

2008-06-26T18:47:00.000-07:00

Well soccer is over and we didn't do the best but we had fun. There is always next year to do better. There were games that were very windy, freezing cold, or just really hot. There is no telling what the weather will be like here in Utah.