Home with the Hunsakers

Speed bumps ahead

2011-02-01T22:24:00.000-08:00

Let the good times rock and roll

Here we come!

Too cool for school

Make everyday a high school musical

Serenity in Vernal Pools Hike

The gang is all here

I've come to the conclusion that I know absolutely nothing about life. Just when I think things are working out, there is a speed bump on the road that sends me sailing. Heaven forbid there be an actual accident that causes major chaos because the speed bumps always throw me for a loop. How do you make it through this life intact? Rephrase: how do you make it through without heartaches, headaches, anxiety, stress...? I guess the real answer would be, you don't. But I so want to! I think I would be fine with a Stepford husband and stepford children to follow my every command..err... request. Apparently that takes a little thing away called free agency. I appreciated free agency so much more before I had kids of my own. Now I sometimes think it's overrated. So for every speed bump I encounter I need a mantra...ideas?? The best thing I can say is have fun, ride it out and hopefully, the speed bumps will take you on the ride of your life.

Christmas Day Pictures

2010-12-28T15:48:00.001-08:00

The Way You Make Me Feel

2010-11-19T11:32:00.000-08:00

Me and Michael

Dance fever

Michael is alive and kicking

True eighties fashion

I wish I had Susie's dress!

Birthday Girls

Scott says this is exactly what he wore in the 80's!

We had the most fabulous 80's Dance Party for my 40th birthday. But really I don't feel 40. Michael Jackson (My friend Christine's friend James) did an amazing rendition of Billy Jean. Is it possible that time could just stop and I don't have to get any older?? Really I would be perfectly happy with staying around 26 for the rest of my life. But that would actually require time travel at this point. So I will focus on the age that I feel. (Until I look at Suzanne and then happen to see myself in the mirror soon after) I feel content. Sort of. I guess that it doesn't matter how old you are, when you are a girl you are never really happy with the way you look. I would like to be a tall trim brunette. But it's not going to happen. So I will be content to be a short blonde who is now 40 (!) and if I find myself researching all the latest wrinkle creams, there's nothing wrong with that right??

Halloweenie

2010-11-04T11:05:00.000-07:00

The candy exchange

Zanna and Livy at Ward Party

Taylor and Dylan at ward party

Little Red Riding Hood and Prince of Persia

A bear and a cat

Ugh, Taylor decided to go scary

Grim grinning ghosts come out to socialize

Scott and April

Ah Halloween. I know what you're thinking. What's so great about Halloween? Well when you're a kid and you get to dress up and eat candy until you throw up (which is exactly what Carter did the day after our ward Trunk or Treat) it's an adventure that only happens once a year. Well, the candy part pretty much happens for me all the time because I love candy, but the dressing up is usually only once a year. It's the time to pretend to be someone or something else for a day. I love coming up with an idea and putting it into action. This year I was a flapper and Scott was a mobster. I forgot my camera at the party so check out facebook if you can't stand to miss those pics. Lacey was a marionette puppet for the party, but on the day of Halloween she decided to change it to Little Red Riding Hood because too many people asked her what she was. Some of my favorite costumes this year were Johnny Cash and June Carter, The whole gang from Peter Pan, and of course mine. The best part is, I am already thinking about what to wear for next year. So if you feel less than inspired by dressing up, remember it's a chance to be someone else for one day. Get creative, have fun, kids would never think about missing the opportunity to dress up! (and because there is candy involved what's not to love?) Hope to see your costume next year!

Then and Now-Brother Joseph

2010-10-10T21:50:00.000-07:00

It's hard to believe that two years have passed since Joe left on his mission. The time has flown by but at the same time I think about all the things that have happened since he left and wonder how he will adjust to the changes. His nieces and nephews have grown, in fact new ones have been born that he's never met. I have had such a great relationship with Joe through his life because he is so close in age to my own kids. I remember taking him to the zoo, Disneyland, sledding; we would always include him because it was fun to have a playmate for Suzanne. I can't imagine life without Joe. He is so funny and fun to be with. He makes you laugh and he's a great dance partner. But while Joe was on his mission I got the chance to develop a little different relationship with him. Through our letter exchanges I got to see more than the boy he was when he left, I got to see the man he is becoming. He is alot like me. In some ways that is good and in some ways bad. He questions things like I do. He is headstrong and speaks his mind. I am so proud of him, and I can't wait to see him again. My kids are ecstatic to see him. They have been in countdown mode for two months or longer. I am so happy he has set such a good example for my kids, I don't know if he will ever realize how much they look up to him and watch his example. Well done Joe, we love you.

The Best Days are with Family

2010-08-31T11:19:00.000-07:00

Tyler, Ally and Sammy

Girls at 4th of July Picnic

Family trek through Oak Canyon Nature Center

Aunt Jess, Sammy, Tyler, Emma and Lacey

Look what hatched out of this egg!

Ape and Missy

Checking out the Old Mine

Nothing makes me happier then spending time with family and this summer was so great because we got to spend alot of time with cousins from both sides of the family. We had a great time together with some ups and downs (for some reason siblings are often each others worst foe) but just being together is such a blessing. I can't wait until Joe and Sam are back home safe and sound and we can all get together again. Love all of my family, both sides. We are lucky...

SUMMER FUN

2010-08-23T10:32:00.000-07:00

The summer past us by way too fast this year! I can't believe we are back in school and Zanna is a senior and Taylor is a freshman this year. We had a great summer but it wasn't nearly long enough. I would have been happy to have it last for at least another month! We spent the month of July visiting Utah to check out BYU and visit Amy and Tyler, going to the beach and playing with visiting family from out of state. Now we have to buckle down and organize our time between school and soccer. We are anxiously awaiting the month of October to get here so we can see Joe-sniff again. I can hardly believe it's been two years since he's been gone. Hopefully this Christmas the whole family will be reunited with Joe home from his mission and Sam home from Afganistan.

Prom

2010-05-27T10:52:00.000-07:00

My beautiful Zanna went to her first Prom this year. It's hard to believe that she is old enought to go to Prom! She is also talking about college. I am not sure I am going to be able to let her go. Really. I feel like crying when I think about her leaving because I love being around her. I can say that. I love to be around my 17 year old daughter. (most of the time!) She brings me joy. All of my chidlren do. I am blessed to have the kids I do.

We are Family

2010-04-09T17:38:00.000-07:00

Nothing is better to me than spending time with my family. We had a great family reunion; complete with a trip to Disneyland and the Fullerton Arboretum. I am truly blessed to have the family I have, I don't think it's an accident that I was sent to this family. I am also lucky that my siblings have married amazing people that I love as much as I love my own brothers and sister. It's great to spend time with them. The only thing missing was Brother Joseph who I love and miss so much. I can't wait until he is reunited with us all after he gets home from his mission in October. My idea of heaven is my family...

Family Reunion Part 2

2010-04-09T17:19:00.001-07:00

Family Reunion Part 1

2010-04-09T17:17:00.001-07:00

Trip for two

2010-02-11T12:20:00.000-08:00

Me panning for gold!

Scott at the Mormon Battalion exhibit

Inside the Mormon Battalion Center
Nothing says Valentine's Day than actual time away with the one you love to reconnect. I sometimes forget how important that is in the day to day shuffle of life. Scott and I spent the weekend (a rainy one, I might add) down in San Diego and it was a great trip. We spent time sightseeing and eating, but the best part (at least for me) was talking. Talking non stop about everything going on in life. Good, bad and ugly. It reminded me why I fell in love with him in the first place...of course his astounding good looks didn't hurt either. I think Valentine's Day is not about some huge romantic gesture, it's about being with the one you love. Of course some flowers and chocolate never hurt anyone...

Freedom and war

2010-01-18T11:31:00.000-08:00

I found out today that my brother is heading off to Afganistan again in a few months. My heart is heavy with this news, not just for myself, but for his family. He will be gone for six months from his wife and four children! I wonder at the courage of the men and women who set off and sacrifice so much of themselves for the rest of us. Do we appreciate it? Do we care? Do we even think about it? When I see a bumper sticker or hear a song that reflects the current tide of anti-war, I get angry. Not because I want us to be at war, but I feel angry that instead of showing support for those who are fighting we are spending so much time debating the merits of war. Freedom is not free and someone has to protect us. To all the soldiers out there who leave their family and friends to protect my family and friends...thank you. A million times thank you and it will never be enough. We can't afford to be apathetic or anti-war. If we want to hold onto the freedoms we enjoy we need to care.

I bring you good tidings...finally

2009-12-22T19:34:00.001-08:00

The Von Trap Family children

The nuns

Maria and the children (My favorite things song) Suzanne and Lacey

Tada! Here it is....drumroll please! I recently read that a blog is a vain attempt to have people interested in what you have to say...well duh! We have had a busy couple of months in the Hunsaker household! In November the girls were the the Sound of Music play at Norco High School. Suzanne was the housekeeper (Frau Schmidt) a nun and an award winner at the Festival. Lacey was Brigitta, one of Von Trap children. They did a fabulous job! Suzanne is also going to be starring in a Murder Mystery Dinner Theater production in February, when I have more info I will pass it along! She is very excited to be heading off to New York City in the Spring with the performing choir. (Ala GLEE for those of you in the know) Taylor will be celebrating his 14th birthday tomorrow! He is very excited to see what he gets for his birthday and Christmas presents. I hope he's not disappointed. Carter has been avidly riding his bike around the neighborhood and I have anxiety every time that he is going to get hit by a car. He has no fear! He is a kamakaze on that thing. Lacey rides too, but is much more subdued. My friend let me borrow a beach cruiser so Zanna and I take turns going on bike rides with them. The kids are all eagerly awaiting Christmas to be here already. I am looking forward to the holidays not for the gifts but for the company. It is going to be so fun to spend time with family. I can't think of anything I would rather do. I am grateful for my family and the birth of our Savior. Joy to the World and Merry Christmas to all!

Preview of coming attractions...

2009-11-03T22:58:00.000-08:00

Lacey the Pirate and Lourdes the Go-go Girl

I haven't uploaded all my Halloween pictures yet but I thought I would leave a little taste of what was to come. Lucky for Scott, I didn't subject him to the agony of dressing up this year...well really he was working the Spook Alley with the Young Men the whole time, but that's besides the point. Anyway in honor of Roller Derby Girls everywhere my friends and I chose to be Glamazons of the Roller Rink, Dervishes of the Dueling Derby, the Unstoppable, Incredible Team of...Candy the Crusher!!! Molly Mayhem!! And Brawlin' Britney...you don't want to meet us on roller skates...no really, you don't. But we had a fun time dressing up despite our lack of skates (not for lack of trying to find them...but skates are scarce!) Can't wait to see whats up for next year!!

Love, love me do-you know I love you!

2009-10-08T10:16:00.000-07:00

This year we didn't dress up-but the kids look adorable!

Zorro and his consort!

Harry Potter and Buffy the Vampire Slayer

Pamela Anderson and Tommy Lee

I just realized while looking through old Halloween pictures that I have really made Scott wear some interesting costumes. I love Halloween and dressing up. It probably stems from the fact that my birthday falls near Halloween. I have always enjoyed dressing up and eating candy, it is so fun! Scott has good naturedly gone along with my shenanigans, in fact he seems to actually enjoy it sometimes. I admit that he is not always on board with my ideas, but since he probably knows that dressing up is not optional, if he doesn't like my idea he comes up with his own. Sadly I was unable to locate a picture of his "Gansta rapper" from a few years ago...complete with a foil grill. My point is that since he realizes how much I love it, he has embraced it and doesn't rain on my parade. It reminds me how much he really does love me, enough to put up with dressing up and dancing (yes dancing) even if its not his favorite thing to do. Thanks sweet pea, I love you too!

P.S. And I can't wait to dress up again for Halloween!!

I love to see the Temple...

2009-09-09T11:58:00.000-07:00

Me and Amy Sue!
Shirley Ann (mom) and Aunt Linda

Before school started we made a girls trip to the Redlands Temple. It was so fun to go with my mom, sister and aunt. There is nothing better than a peaceful day together with some of my favorite girls! It was a fun trip that I think we should make a tradition and hopefully next time we can get some more of the cousins to go too! Before the next wave of babies is born!

School is in Session!

2009-08-31T12:49:00.000-07:00

School is officially back in session and I don't know whether to laugh or cry. It's peaceful and quiet around the house...maybe too quiet. I did get my work done this morning on the computer for perhaps the first time all summer. We ended the summer with a bang going to the Newport Coast Villas which were beautiful and amazing. I would love to own one someday. (But I want a house first!) I will post pics soon, I can't find my camera cause I haven't finished unpacking yet. The kids were excited to be back in school, Zanna is driving the new car to school...I have trepidation about that but will remain hopefully optimistic. Taylor seemed happy to be starting 8th grade. Carter and Lace have been in school for a few weeks and started soccer and Lace starts dance soon. Busy, busy. But it is really nice to have another willing driver. Zanna is very helpful, don't know how long that will last. Cemetary....I mean seminary starts next week so we'll see how exhausted she is with her extreme workload this year. She passed AP European History and has 3 college credits to her name. This year she is taking even more. Her determination astounds me...she didn't get that from me!

Somewhere Over the Rainbow-in Hawaii

2009-08-08T10:36:00.000-07:00

This is a typical Hunsaker Family shot-I thought I would let our imperfections show so the rest of the pics will look fab!

The statues in the Easter Island Exhibit

Taking a hula lesson in Figi Village

We spent two days at the Cultural Center because there was so much to do and see-T playing an old fashioned drum

On the Arizona Memorial at Pearl Harbor

Little Surfer Girl-I missed her catching her first wave!:(

A quiet game in the Hawaiian Village at the Polynesian Cultural Center

Zanna's first surf lesson

Carter blew the conch shell on his first try, ask Scott how long it took him. (i couldn't do it at all)

At the Laie Hawaii Temple. It was breathtaking. Such a beautiful temple

Waimea Falls-we are swimming towards the waterfall to sit in it!

Turtle alert! (can you see it?)

Me and T in Shark's Cove

Aloha! I am faced with the daunting task of trying to recreate through blog our amazing family vacation to Hawaii! It's impossible, I guess I will have to just take you all there so you can see for yourself! It was so beautiful. We are so grateful to John and Mandy for their hospitality. The week flew by, everyday we explored the island and found a new spot that we loved. Kayaking, snorkeling, surfing, hula lessons, hiking a volcanic crater, visiting Pearl Harbor, swimming in the bluest, warmest water ever. It was a priceless experience that I hope my family remembers forever!

It's the PITS!

2009-07-24T13:12:00.000-07:00

Smile the camera is actually over here!

See the pit behind the "wild animals"

Sloth and jaguar

Woolly Mammoth Bones

undercover in the little theater

We made a day trip to LA to visit the La Brea Tar Pits and expand our knowledge of history. Yah right, I just thought it would be cool. Anyway it was a hot, hot, hot day, maybe not the best weather for visiting tar pits, but we had a great time. As you can see, Taylor is impervious to weather in his invisibility cloak, uh I mean sweatshirt. We explored the pits (well not actually inside them, but around), watched a movie on the pits, saw tons of dire wolf bones, mammoth, camels, sloths, really cool stuff. I'm sure the highlight was the gift shop full of stuff that has nothing to do with the pits. Lame, I told the kids it had to relate in someway with the trip, so they all opted for different rocks...which I guess using the six degrees of Kevin Bacon theory you could tie back into the tar pits in some way. At least they come from the ground!

Home

2009-07-13T22:30:00.000-07:00

Exploring the tidepools

Uncle Paul, Taylor and Carter

A game of frisbee Football

Sparklers from Grandma were a HUGE hit!

Aunt Scarlett and Carter at the tidepools

Taylor and Carter

Sisters

Amy and Mom

Cousins-Lacey, Emma, Tyler and Carter

We had a mini family reunion this week with my family. I have the greatest family in the world...but everyone probably says that! I love to spend time with my family. We are growing by leaps and bounds with new babies and in-laws! I have the cutest nieces and nephews. We spent the week together playing, sleeping over at Grandma's house, late night runs to Cherry on Top, the beach, the park, the pool. So much fun. Scott teases me because my idea of heaven is being with my family hanging out, just like Sunday nights at my Mom's house. Talking, laughing, debating...enjoying life. I think the thing I have been thinking about the most this week is you could strip everything away, and as long as I had my family, I would feel at home, safe, loved and cherished. I love my husband and children and I am so happy that I have such an amazing extended family with sisters and brothers and nieces and nephews that I love so much. Thanks for a great week!

Fireworks

2009-07-13T22:19:00.000-07:00

Lacey and Gavin (camera shy? Yah right!)

Savi, Tori, Elise, Lacey, Gavin and Carter

Charlie's Angels of course

Fourth of July was a blast this year. We spent the day at the Hafer's BBQ with friends. Had delicious food and fun. Swam until we were waterlogged then headed home to clean up and go watch the fireworks. Zanna got her license (!) on July 3 so she decided she wanted to go to the fireworks with her friends and accidently took my car instead of Scott's. I am sure this was just the first of many car stories to come. Good times, I am not really looking forward to that. But anyway we made it to the Norco church building and watched the fireworks. I missed having Zanna there with us and I especially missed being with my crazy fun, family at the Yorba Linda Fireworks, hearing the patriotic music and dancing with my little bro Joe. Next year!!

Beach Days

2009-07-11T00:30:00.000-07:00

Carter and Gavin (Lacey's friend)
Gavin and Lacey
Carter, Andrew (Taylor's friend), Taylor
I know I've said this a million times, but I love the beach. We started off the summer with a bang. We went to the beach before school even got out on a minimum day. We decided to go to Balboa. We have gotten into the habit of having lunch or dinner at Ruby's on the pier and then visiting the Balboa Candy Company that sells vintage candy (well vintage era the 80's) and salt water taffy. On this particular day we ate dinner at Ruby's Diner and then proceeded to the candy store, which was closed! Now this would be ok if we were all adults, but to kids looking forward to candy...you see where this is heading, right? Well, a kind older woman suggested we take the ferry over to the island as that store stayed open later and we would surely have success there. I quickly calculated the ferry toll and decided to take the plunge. The ride over was fun and we excitedly exited the ferry and looked around for the candy store. You might think I would have asked for more specifics from the lady, but no I did not. We started walking...and walking and walking. In the past I have always driven onto the island, parked and visited the candy store, so I really had no idea how far away it actually was from the ferry. At this point I was seriously questioning myself and wondering what to do when someone finally directed us in the right direction and we walked for another 10 minutes to the candy store. Hurray! It was open, we got our candy and then, we got to walk back! Everyone was extremely tired of walking, especially after being at the beach all day, and Carter said he had had to go to the bathroom since we were on the pier. Nice. It was a great adventure, and a great beginning to the summer. The water, the smells, the sand, I love it. I know Mom, right now you are thinking I am crazy. Which is probably true. But then you are the one who wears Bronze Goddess the quintessential summer scent, so who really is the crazy one?

Hunsaker Family Reunion

2009-06-23T11:50:00.000-07:00

Carter and Uncle John at the waterfall. Brett and Sawyer are in the background

Zanna, Lacey and me!

Lacey explaining the benefits of hiking to Makenna, Aunt Cynthia, Uncle John and Lucas

Austin, Brandon, Peyton, Lacey, Carter and Taylor

We had a blast this last weekend with the Hunsaker side of the family up in Lake Arrowhead/Crestline. What a great chance to explore nature and enjoy each other's company. We stayed together at The Strawberry Lodge that had ping pong, swimming, horseshoes, lots of room to explore and rooms for everyone in the family! Everyday a different family cooked and had activities for the family to participate in. We missed the families that couldn't be there but had a great time with all the cousins!

Cousins

2009-06-23T11:41:00.000-07:00

Ty and Carter playing Star Wars Battleship

Have you ever noticed how cousins just have a special bond? We went to visit Tyler and Emma while they were staying with Grandma and Grandpa this week and I snapped a few pictures of their time together. Emma loved playing with Lacey's hair, and Tyler and Carter just ran around playing all sorts of stuff. It reminded me how much the bonds we form with family last forever. While it was a great time for us, meanwhile Dan and Jessica (my brother and sister in law) were in Las Vegas with their youngest child Eli in the hospital. (He's home now and doing well!) I think I take so much for granted that everyone I love will always be around. So xoxoxo to all my family. I love you all!

Dance Fever

2009-06-13T10:25:00.000-07:00

Lacey and "Miss Kacie" her dance teacher at her recital. She was a shining star.

These are a few studio pics of the girls in her dance group-so cute!

Grandma Hunsaker, Lacey and Aunt Julie

Grandma Aston and Lacey

Zanna and Lacey-sweet sisters!Scott and Lacey-Daddy's little girl! Lacey was radiant up on the stage at her recital, she is so sweet when she dances. I think she loves dancing as much as I do! I think she is much better than I ever was because she can actually follow choreography! The church was packed and so many friends and family came to watch her recital. It really made her feel special. So thanks to the Hunsakers, Astons, Cavanaghs, Giles and her friend Lourdes for making her feel like a dancing diva for the day!

oh what do you do in the summertime?

2009-05-29T11:02:00.000-07:00

Life is full of simple pleasures and lazy summer days. I often think the reason summer is so appealing is it gives us a chance to unwind and relax and take things a little slower. I know everytime summer rolls around I feel happier...I love the sun and the beach, but I think what I love the most is seeing my kids enjoy the outdoors so much. it reminds me of being a kid. Now I am always in a hurry to get here and there and I don't take the time to chill out or play in a stream. Life's too short! Get out of the rut, smell the roses, play in the stream, oh what do you do in the summertime?

The boys playing in a stream at the father and son campout.

Sweet 16-Rockin the 80's!

2009-05-04T10:58:00.000-07:00

Rockin the 80's girls-Jinelle, Izzy, Stacey and Zanna

Sweet sixteen...I can hardly believe it! Zanna is 16! Where did the time go? We celebrated all week long! Starting on Monday at Disneyland which was her actual birthday.

This was at Red Robin's on Tuesday, we went to celebrate as a family and had cupcakes after and presents of course!

On Friday Zanna and her friend Jayson had a double 16th birthday party. They invited about 100 kids and about 80 showed up! Crazy but sooo fun. It was an 80's neon party. The glow in the dark stuff was a huge hit! We had a DJ and dancing, karoake, a Spiderman Bounce House and trampoline (that we thought for sure would break from all the kids on it) and tons of food!

As you can see they got really creative with the glow in the dark accessories, especially the boys! The funniest part of the party came the day before when she was getting her "costume" ready and I told her something she wanted to wear was not 80's. To which she replied, yes it is. I distinctly remember saying the same thing to my Mom about the 60's once upon a time. Sorry Mom, I really do know now that Mother knows best.

Do the Hoedown

2009-04-28T10:29:00.000-07:00

Lacey and Scott went to the annual Daddy Daughter Dance and Lacey was estatic to find that it was a western theme this year! Sweet. She got to do the hoedown with her Daddy!

I left the house to go help at the dance and Lacey was so excited to come to the dance with Scott. She loves having him all to herself for a date.
This was the jail that the girls got to throw their dads into and then have a photo op.

Lacey's dream is to own a horse someday so she is practicing!

She got all decked out in her western wear and boots to dance the night away! They had a great time and Lacey said it was one of her favorite dances ever!

Heigh Ho...A trekking we will go!

2009-04-16T10:57:00.000-07:00

We had an amazing spring break week. Scott and I had the chance to be youth conference parents for the first time and we got really lucky because it was a pioneer trek! You might think I'm crazy but it was one of the most amazing experiences I've ever had. Zanna and her friend Cosette were not in our "family" but they were on the trek too.
Zanna and Cosette
Wearing rags on their feet like the pioneers! (For five rocky miles!!)
This is my "family". We had the most amazing kids! I loved it.
We had six kids from the Jurupa Stake. One was a non-member, all were awesome. They worked so hard every day it was inspiring. These pictures were mostly taken on the first day when it was sunny and 70 degrees. Unfortunately the weather took a turn for the worse on the second day and started pouring rain. We had to walk through the rain and face a gorge that seemed impossible but with teamwork we made it. That night the rain continued to fall, and fall and fall and temperatures dropped dramatically. More than half of the girls side of camp was flooded and some of the girls were evacuated in the middle of the night. It was an experience that I won't forget. It made me grateful for my home and the life I have. The kids were the best part of the whole thing because they never stopped smiling and helping eachother. The spirit of love and charity was overwhelming. I can't imagine a better way to spend my spring break.

scorpions, friends and fun....oh my!

2009-03-23T16:03:00.000-07:00

Pretty girls!
Just got home from a fast trip to Arizona to stay with the Fifes. I miss having Amy close by! We became so close when our kids were little, we literally spent almost every day together. First running together every morning and then hanging out making dinner or doing something fun with the kids later on. I have to say thank you to her sister in law for encouraging me to call Amy even though I didn't know her very well at the time. I think we were probably friends before we even came to this earth because she is like a sister. She brings out the best in me. The kids had a fabulous time at their house (which was beautiful!). They swam, hunted for scorpions(!) played badminton and hung out in the pool house. The girls were estatic because we took them to get the Twilight DVD at midnight and they stayed up watching it! Between the two of us we have 9 kids so most of our time was spent at home but Amy and I did sneak away for dinner and some fun at the MAC counter with the same sister in law that set us up 13 years ago. I will always cherish the relationship I have with her. She is defintely a friend forever. (It doesn't hurt that our kids also get along extremely well) It's worth that drive just to see them! Though next time I think I'll extend the trip longer cause it just wasn't enough time.
T playing football in the pool.
Girls goofing off on Cosette's bed

Lounging around by the pool

gone baby gone

2009-03-09T21:47:00.000-07:00

My baby is driving! It's not even possible that that adorable headstrong toddler morphed into a beautiful headstrong teenager and is turning 16 next month! My baby is gone! (Though she probably thinks she was never a baby) It's hard to believe that much time has passed. I know just yesterday she was playing in the sandbox at Grandma's and wearing floaties at the pool. Why didn't anyone tell me they grow up so fast? Does that make me old? Cause I don't feel old yet...hmmm....I'll have to ask Grandma about that one. Zanna can't wait to celebrate her 16th birthday. I hope it's everything she wants it to be. Love you Zanna and I am soooo proud of you!

Catalina Trip

2009-02-16T21:33:00.001-08:00

Scott and I took a trip to Catalina last week for a romantic getaway. His office gave us the trip for a Christmas present. Yeah Me! I got to enjoy it too. We had a great time. It was chilly and rained a bit, but we didn't let that stop us from exploring the island. This is Avalon Bay where the ships come in and is the most popular harbor on the island.
You can see the casino behind us that was built by William Wrigley Jr. the bubble gum magnet. He started up the tourist part of the island and there is alot of celebrity memorabilia in the restaurants and shops. People like Marilyn Monroe, James Dean, Cary Grant all vacationed there back in the day.
This is me by a buffalo. I found out that buffalos were brought to the island for a movie in the 20's and became so numerous that they actually had to ship some back to Nebraska to keep the population down. See, I learned something while I was there! We hiked to the Wrigley Monument (in the rain) and enjoyed the view. But mostly we just enjoyed eachother and the time to chill. I wish I could get away every month!

Frazzle Rock

2009-02-05T10:27:00.000-08:00

It's been such a busy time of year with projects and such that I haven't had time to blog very much this year. Having four kids in three different schools is taking it's toll on me. It doesn't help that someone (Who shall remain nameless) forgets something and wants me to bring it to her at least three times a week. I drive to seminary two days a week, three different schools and after school activities every day. It's been kinda crazy. Not to mention homework! Science fair projects, book reports, mission projects, seriously, how do working moms do it? I can barely keep up on anything and I am home! Oh yeah, maybe I could stop using the computer because that's a time sucker right there. So in honor of feeling frazzled, I thought I'd post what I feel like I must look like at the end of the day...these lovely pics are me on my 16th birthday, courtesy of my friends.

This is what my hair looks like from behind, and usually still when I wake up.
And this is from the front when I am in a hurry to do my makeup. See I haven't really changed that much in the last 20 years.

London Bridge is falling down...

2009-01-21T21:59:00.001-08:00

The London Bridge is not falling down...they just moved it to Lake Havasu! Who knew? I took a trip this weekend and ended up in Lake Havasu to visit my brother and his family and saw an amazing sight. The London Bridge. Yes, the one from the nursery rhyme and that song by Fergie. It was a short trip (if you can call any trip taken with four kids short) and we detoured to Big Bear for a snow day on the way home. It was great to visit Dan and Jess and family to see the new addition. New adorable addition named Elijah Burke Aston. It was so nice to visit them and see their new house and spend time together. We also got to visit Dan's classroom (he teaches at Lake Havasu High-GO KNIGHTS) It was fun to see him in his element. We had a great time and on the way home we took a detour and swung by Big Bear for a snow day.
Scott and I by the London Bridge

This is at the London Bridge in Lake Havasu.

An original phone booth "London's calling..."
A fashionable Lady always wears a hat!
Fun in the snow!

Carter's just along for the ride.
T and Scott throwing snowballs at eachother.
The guys helped Dan build a shed for his backyard.

At Elijah's blessing-what a blessing it is to have such a wonderful family!

The cousins-little did we know that they had been bribed by Grandpa to smile. With the Japanese candy that they all love, Hi-chews!

On the way home we stopped to collect some volcanic rocks. You can never have enough lava rocks right?

2009-We are Family

2009-01-11T21:24:00.000-08:00

The adults trying to rock out-Amy played guitar like a rock star, I think Ty and Zanna were singing and Scarlett was taking a turn on the drums.

Ames and Sammy sitting at the kitchen table. Oh yeah, of course Buzz was there too!

Miss and I on New Year's Eve. Miss is rockin the "Hair-do!"

Scarlett has an amazing voice, Zanna already plays the hardest parts on drums and Ty working the guitar!

Mark and Lacey...what can I say? Great minds think alike! They were inseparable.

Taylor and Matt, too cool at 12 and 13. They are well on their way to teenager hood.

Well it's 2009. To catch up...we had the cousins for the holidays. We spent the new year rockin out on the rock band. We could start a family band ala "The Partridge Family" I'm sure. I have found that my children are extremely gifted in the music area...chips off the old block. (The old block being Scott, not me) I, on the other hand, stink. And that is putting it mildly. Back to Scott though, when I say "Old Block", I don't mean that really, though he is turning 4-0 this week. I feel bad that I haven't updated in so long, but as they say, no news is good news! We were extremely busy and happy over the holidays and I was so sad to see the cousins go. I wish they lived closer. We missed Dan and Jess, but hopefully (fingers crossed) will get to see them this week. They have a new member of their family. And baby makes three! Can't wait to see my new little nephew. Family is a blessing, I don't tell mine often enough how much I love them. I have an amazing family. Though they can be crazy at times...I won't hold it against them, if they don't hold it against me! We got to spend alot of time hanging out with my brother Paul and his wife Scarlett too, I love them so much! It was fun to be with them. It is extremely hard to let Amy go back to Utah. I miss her when she's gone. The month of January is already flying by!

Remember, Cherish, Love and Share

2008-12-15T09:21:00.000-08:00

Remembering Christmases past is part of what makes Christmas Special. I love to see the love and joy on Carter and Lacey's faces!
Cherishing the special moments that are often too rare.
Loving your Dad so much you can't be next to him, you have to be on him!
Sharing you happiness and love with others. Remember the past, cherish and love now and share your love with others!

Fa La La

2008-12-07T20:45:00.000-08:00

Tis the season to be jolly and joyful. I am so thankful for the Christmas season because it means I get to spend time with my family and friends. We get to see family that comes from far away (like Washington and Utah) and we also get to welcome a new member into our family (From Arizona) The air is filled with candles and Christmas trees. Ornaments and Christmas lights galore. Enjoy the moments...that's my mantra this season.

Give Thanks

2008-12-02T11:36:00.000-08:00

Giving thanks has never been a gift of mine. I don't say it often enough and I am sure that the people in my life wish I would say thanks more often. So thanks to my Family and Friends, for being wonderful supportive people that make my life sweeter and enriched for having you in it. Since I have so few pics from Thanksgiving, I will attempt to take many more for Christmas. But let me point out a few shining stars in my life and I am taking this opportunity to give thanks. Thanks to Licorice for chewing up everything he can get his mouth on.
Thanks to Zanna and Aubrey for giving me the opportunity to see Twilight again.
Thanks to Carter and Tyler for reminding me that exploring is fun especially with Grandpa's handy mole-vision flashlights!

Twilight Moves

2008-11-24T11:39:00.000-08:00

Zanna and I ventured to see Twilight at the midnight showing this week. Well, not actually together, but in the same theater. She went with her friends and I went with mine, but we both came home together. Something I discovered since this venture, I am getting old. Seriously, seeing a movie at midnight and then being required to take care of children the next day is just cruel. Of course no one got up when I asked them too, I still had to make breakfast and lunches and do a homework check. But looking at the pictures of Zanna, so happy and young, I think I can understand why I wanted a little piece of that. Just for one night.

Fall into hope

2008-11-09T16:23:00.000-08:00

Scott and I on my Birthday
My birthday party was a huge success. My family is always so generous with the gifts. Carter especially liked bestowing the tissue paper to my head.

It is with deepest regret that I allow Halloween to pass, but now it's on to the rest of the Holiday Season. Halloween, Thanksgiving and Christmas seem to mash together at the end of the year. I posted the pic of Scott and I to remind me how it all started. With hope for the future and our lives together. We passed our 17 year anniversay in August and four children later, I still have hope for the future, because my children are the future. My children continue to surprize and amaze me with their gifts and talents. I laugh and cry sometimes in the same day from the events that occur in our home. But I believe that they are already better people than I am and I have hope that they will continue to grow.

Zombies and Ghouls

2008-11-02T14:29:00.001-08:00

Scott was a Ghostbuster-Venkman to be exact.
Zanna posing with me. My Halloween costume was a Twilight t-shirt. It said "Bite me". (I thought it was funny)
Carter and Lace with their Halloween take.
Here are the ghouls and zombies that invaded our house on Halloween.
The cutest little Ladybug around, Livvy Lou!

Miss Zanna as Alice in Wonderland.

FYI, as you can see the costume choices were random and not without a little irony. I gave in a little on my sweet Lacey because it was either this, or a ninja.
So Halloween this year is as follows:
Alice in Wonderland-Zanna
Victorian Gentleman-Taylor
Gothic School Girl-Lacey
Knight in Shining Armor-Carter
Halloween is past...sniff, sniff. I had a blast at our annual trunk or treat with the family on Tuesday and double the fun because Halloween fell on a Friday! Our good friends Ang and Livvy (Olivia) went trick or treating with us and then Kari and Jamie stopped by later to play "zombies on the lawn" for the trick or treating stragglers that came after nine. It was a great night and I had an absolute blast and I ate way too much candy. Sadly, my older kids totally ditched us in favor of their friends, after mandatory pictures :) I know I shouldn't be bummed that they prefer friends over us, but I am in denial that they are growing up. Next year I am hosting the party so they want to stay home. Hmm...now if I could just move into a bigger house by then!

Shrinking Ray

2008-10-17T11:03:00.000-07:00

Taylor, Carter and I participated in a Mother-Son BBQ at Carter's school recently. Carter and I had a blast playing the games together. Taylor, being in middle school now was too cool for the games and instead "hung out" with a few of his friends(that just happened to be there with their moms and younger siblings). While I was playing with Carter I happened to notice Taylor talking to some girls with his friends. To my surprise he handed his cell phone to one of them and smiled as she typed something into his phone. I was too far away to really get the scoop without causing a scene so instead I bided my time and casually asked him about it later. The funny thing is, since Taylor has started middle school I have noticed that he talks about girls much more than he did in elementary school, but he still didn't really seem interested in them, in that way. So my interrogation, er, I mean questions had to be subtle.
Me: So what were you talking to the girls about?
Him: Stuff
Me: What kind of stuff?
Him: School
Me: Do they go to your school?
Him: No
Me: Why did she take your cell phone and type something?!
Him: Were you watching me?!
Me: Uh, no...I uh just was wondering.
Him: She just gave me a ring tone mom, no big deal
Me:(relieved) oh good.
Him: Mom, you know I talk to girls all the time, right?

Needless to say, I know he talks to girls, I think it was that he seemed to enjoy it a little too much...it was like, gulp, flirting or something! Why can't kids stay 6 years old forever? When they love you and no one else is important? I remember my mom saying that about my youngest brother Joe and now I know what she meant! I think I will borrow something that Scott always says, I am going to invent a shrinking ray and shrink them back down to the age and size where they fit into my arms and I can keep them safe and sound in my own little world forever!

We are Family

2008-10-07T10:50:00.000-07:00

We visited The Gathering Place and it was all decorated for Halloween! So of course we had to snap a few pics!
Joe and I checking our navigation system.
Amy and I are pretending to be horses and Joe is feeding me. What? You didn't get that from the picture?
Whirlwind weekend! I spent the weekend with Amy (and Tyler!) and the rest of the fam that went up to take Joe.(For those of you who don't know, Joe is my youngest brother and I think the most like me!) We got to see Amy in a play called "Into the Woods" and she was fabulous! Her voice is ethereal and pure. I wish I could sing like her. She is so talented, I wish it ran in the family!! We crammed so much into the weekend I don't know where to start. We went to the Salt Lake Temple, Amy's play, Conference, cousin's dinner, and squished the mall and Red Lobster in for good measure! Back to Joe-I can't believe it is already time for him to leave. It's smacking me right in the face as I write this...I know that Joe is ready, but I feel so torn. Part of me is so happy and proud of him and part of me is (selfishly) screaming, "Don't Go!" Everytime one of my siblings leaves on a mission I get this feeling that part of me is missing. I am sure that my parents feel it more keenly than I, but it is like an essential part of me is just out of reach and no matter how hard I try, I can't get to it. Joe has made an amazing transformation from boy to man this year and I know that he will be a great missionary. I treasure the family I have been given in this life. Nothing on this earth makes me happier than family. I have been blessed.

Be all that you can be, just leave the choices up to me

2008-09-29T10:22:00.000-07:00

I am breathing a sigh of relief. Our primary program was yesterday. Lace had her part memorized and I was so touched by all the kids singing and participation. However, I was once again reminded how the children who are sent to us have their own ideas about what they will or won't do. During our practices, Carter sang and did his part just fine. Unfortunately just before the program started he was drawing a picture and messed up and he got mad. He went up onto the stand with me, but during the entire program he sat with a scowl on his face with his fists balled up and needless to say did not sing or do his part. I realized how important it is for me to know that Heavenly Father loves us even when we don't do the things we should. Because I love my children, even when I am frustrated with their choices. I know that it is going to happen more and more as they choose to do things that I have no control over. I have to be okay in the fact that I have taught them and tried to set a good example for them. I think that is why I have been trying so hard to do everything we are told to do. But I know one thing, my children have their free agency to choose not to follow what I teach them. I pray that I will be strong enough to handle that. Because even for something like the primary program, my heart was broken just a little, even if it was probably funny to those watching him. And as of right now, it's not okay with me that they make wrong choices, I don't know how my mom did it! Now that I am a mom, I think free agency stinks! Who's idea was this anyway? Can't we grow without it? No? I guess it all boils down to having faith and hope that they will all turn out to be joyful good people and in the meantime I guess I better find a different mantra, maybe "Be all that you can be, just be careful with free agency? Hmm...

Haunting the Hunsaker Home

2008-09-22T11:41:00.000-07:00

It's the first day of fall! I know I am starting Halloween madness too early, but I love Halloween so I thought I'd get a jump start and showcase some of my favorite photos of past years. I love dressing up and being someone else for a day. And I have obviously passed that gene down to my kids!

We are a Happy Family

2008-09-14T15:49:00.000-07:00

We've gotten the hang of school, I think. Three schools, three different times, four kids...can you say crazy? My day begins and ends with driving. Now, while Zanna is looking forward with extreme glee to the day when she can drive a car (and it is coming faster than an express train) I am tired of being in the car. it starts with early morning cemetary (oops! I mean seminary) and then moves on to the different schools. Luckily I have a testimony of seminary (thanks DAD!!) so that part is fairly painless. I don't know how Zanna does it, suffice it to say that by the end of the week she is exhausted! Taylor seems to be enjoying junior high school. He isn't very forthcoming with details, but from what I can gather, it is not a horrific nightmare. Carter is adjusting well to being in school all day, and I look forward to the days that I help in his class. I love to be with kids, whether it be my own or at primary on Sunday. I love my calling even though I am tired after church. Of course, that could be because I always stay out too late on Saturday nights. Yes it is date night, but no that's not the reason I am up late. Zanna's social calendar includes dances and sometimes late night toilet papering...but you didn't hear that from me, and you guessed it, often I am the designated driver. She is also running cross country again this year, that girl is sooo busy. Lacey and Carter are both playing soccer and they are so cute! Carter rocks on the soccer field, and Lacey has played forward this year with great success. I love to watch their games. So final wrap up, we are busy, but busy in a good happy family way. I wouldn't want it any other way.

Fun at the beach and Fair ya'll!!

2008-09-04T11:21:00.000-07:00

We all went to the beach one last time before school started. We spent most of the day with my friends Jen and Summer and then headed over to visit our friends having a bonfire. I will miss going to the beach! It is my favorite place to be especially with my family!

We also went to the Norco Fair on Monday. It was so fun to hang out the whole family! Even Scott came! We had so much fun, even though it was extremely hot and Zanna ended up losing her lunch after the rides. You can see them in the pic hanging upside down, so you can only imagine that after riding this ride twice in a row she was a bit nauseous. I felt like hurling after Carter made me ride the Rock and Roll ride two times in a row. But hey, he was happy. We had a great time together and now school has started for everyone. Zanna is a sophmore and...she got her braces off!! She is absolutely gorgeous and smart and I can say that even if I am her Mom. Tay started junior high and he is off to a great start. Though being a boy, he is not very forthcoming with details. I am relegated to conversations via texting. Ah yes, we succombed and got him his first cell phone. They grow up so fast. Scott finally came to the dark side and switched his phone to the Envy2 so he can text too. If you can't beat em, join em.

Paul's Wedding Slideshow!

2008-08-19T00:11:00.000-07:00

all by myself...don't want to be

2008-08-12T22:19:00.000-07:00

Taylor just sucessfully completed his first week at Scout Camp and despite all my worrying, and seriously I felt like I was going to have an anxiety attack on a daily basis, he had a great time! He got to hike, swim, sleep outside with three other boys (alone!!) in a makeshift shelter and practice first aid. He said they were so busy he didn't have time to shower...for a week! His excuse was that he was swimming every day. I am happy to have him back home again and hopefully next year I won't be a basket case. Prayer works, that is all I have to say. Now Suzanne is off to girls camp where she gets to be a cabin leader and lead devotionals for the girls in her cabin. She was so excited, she amazes me with her spunk and determination to do a good job in everything she does! Scott is leaving tomorrow (and packing as this goes to print) to go on the super activity with the Priests. (They are going to Zion National Park!) I already miss them! What in the world am I going to do when my kids all grow up and move out? I hate it when they are away from home. Luckily I have Joe to take my mind off of it...since it's a minimum day tomorrow we're heading to the beach. Bliss-my favorite place to be!

Horsetown, USA

2008-08-06T18:00:00.000-07:00

My little future vet got a chance to go horse back riding with some new friends! She was so excited to ride a horse. Pretty much every day she reminds me that she is going to take care of animals when she grows up and she is so passionate about it, I don't doubt her. Our news friends have four horses and Lace got to ride two of them. One with an adult on back, all around Norco, and the other while in their backyard. Which needless to say is much bigger than ours. Lacey had so much fun, she really is destined to own horses someday. I am so happy that we met someone who has horses she can ride. Of course I get bonus points because our new friends are really cool and awesome (as Carter would say) so that makes it even better!

Then and Now...

2008-08-04T11:20:00.001-07:00

My twenty year high school reunion is this week. I know that I can't possibly be that old, until Zanna pipes up. Yes, I am that old. Judging by my pics I was an eighties child and am now a goofy goober. But Zach Efron is just so cute, even if he is only 12...or whatever. Well, he is Lacey's dream boy...after her Dad of course. I thought that at this point in life I would have aquired a certain degree of maturity and I am happy to say that uh...no it hasn't happened yet. I still care what I look like when I leave the house, unless I am in a heck of hurry. Sometimes I even imagine that What Not To Wear could be around any corner so I venture out carefully. Silly, I know, but what's a girl to do? Anyway, I had to fill out a survey about what I have accomplished since high school. Well lets see, I didn't graduate from college...yet (I am still working on that), I don't jet set around the world (unless you count all those books I read) What's that you ask? Oh what is my contribution to going green? Well I do my part, in fact I painted Lacey's entire face green last Halloween. That's not what you meant? My career, well I excel in that area, I am a doctor, nurse, pyschiatrist, counselor, chauffeur, mediator, stay at home mom...I almost missed the most important one! I get to raise my children to be wonderful, thankful adults with great personalities and absolutely no hang-ups. Well I can dream can't I? The only thing I have yet to accomplish that remains on my list is to write a book. Hopefully before my thirtieth. Now if I could just locate that old prom dress...

two weddings and a mission call

2008-07-16T15:10:00.000-07:00

This was an eventful week for the Aston and Hunsaker families. We were so blessed to be able to share the joy of both families! Scott and the boys took a road trip up to the bountiful valley of Salt Lake to attend Brent and Laura's wedding. Along the way they stopped at the Timpanogas (I know that is spelled wrong!) Caves to experience the adventure together then they settled into Aunt Amy's house (Or should I say the Gwilliam Family Suites?) and enjoyed swimming on a daily basis while staying there. They got the opportunity to visit where Grandpa and Grandma Hunsaker spend their time and then for the grande finale of the weekend, attended Brent's wedding. We really missed them, but Scott was kind enough to assuage my paranoia by texting me their whereabouts frequently. I don't know why I was so freaked out with half of my family gone, but I appreciated the fact that my dearly beloved was sensitive enough to keep me up to date until their safe return home.

The girls and I also had a fun weekend and a houseful of family while the boys were gone! We got to have Aunt Laura, Holly, Emily and Jace stay at our house! It was great to finally have someone stay with me, I think we are a little too far off the beaten path (i.e. my mom's house!) but I really was happy that they stayed with us. We had a blast going to the Balboa Candy Store before the rehearsal and dinner and sharing that with Dan and Jess and kids...oh and of course Tyler and Joe. Then Saturday we headed to the wedding in Newport Beach. Lacey was so excited to be a flower girl. She practically jumped out of her skin with anticipation. She did a great job with her new little friend Lauren. I will never forget the look on Paul's face as he watched Scarlett walk towards him. I think weddings always make me sentimental because you can see first hand true love captured in a look, a smile, a sweet kiss or just a touch of a hand. I felt joy for my little brother and I wish him all the best, and Scarlett looked absolutely gorgeous!
On Monday Amy and I went out to lunch with Joe and no sooner had we ordered our food then we got a call that Joe 's mission call had come. I won't reveal where he is going, you will have to talk to him about that, but I want him to know he rocks and I love him and I admire the choices he has made to lead him to this point in his life. Amazing weekend, two weddings and a mission call...

oh say does that star spangled banner yet wave?

2008-07-06T13:43:00.000-07:00

Fourth of July is one of my favorite holidays. It is a chance to reconnect with family and enjoy a day of picnicing, swimming, jello jigglers (that one's for T) and fireworks. I love being together and having a good time.

The best thing about the Fourth of July though, is remembering why we celebrate this day. In this time of political milestones with patriotism debated on all sides I hear the songs at the fireworks show and I think, am I proud to be an American? Do I stand up for what I believe in and declare it? I have been reading articles about the upcoming election and I am sure about one thing. The best way I can be an American is to vote and talk to my children about what makes our country so great. I have to remind them about all the sacrifices made so that we can remain a free country with the gift of life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. So when I hear the song written so long ago, oh say does that star spangled banner yet wave? Over the land of the free and the home of the brave...I will know that I did my part to keep it that way. I'M PROUD TO BE AN AMERICAN!

just for fun

2008-07-03T14:32:00.000-07:00

Just for fun I thought I'd post a few blasts from the past. Scott looks so GQ with his squinty profile...Duran Duran where did you go?
I could not resist this pic. Paul, Amy and Dan were not dressing up for Halloween! They were dressed as the rock stars of the day, think Billy Idol and Madonna, though I think Paul and Dan were both vying for the title of Billy Idol. Ames was sporting a little leg too, she was wearing one of my shirts. Vintage 80's! Funny thing is, I saw some boots like that on a girl a few days ago...
Grandpa's cabin. Oh I have such good memories of being there! It was so fascinating in it's hodge podge ramshackle way! I feel like this was Grandpa's dream house. He continued building and building a dream. Every piece was a part of him. As kids it was a dream come true, though looking at it as a mom I probably would've been a little nervous to let my kids climb up there! Memories...I think I am getting sentimental with Paul's wedding fast approaching. I am so happy for him and Scarlett. I hope their life together is full of love and good times and family. Building memories that they can share with their children someday! Love you Paul!

Beachy keen

2008-06-25T18:50:00.000-07:00

We visited the Hafer's at their beach house in Newport Beach this week. We had such a great time. I also got to see some old (well, not really old) friends and go to dinner at Ruby's with them. (SHHH! Don't tell my kids) It was great to hang with Jen and Summer (you guys are so fun, I wish I saw you more often!) I wish I could hang out down there all summer long... Zanna and her two friends having fun in the sun! She was so excited to have some friends to hang out with at the beach. I know that being fifteen it is not cool to hang out with your mom, but at least she will still go with me to the beach, even if she spends all her time with her friends! Chaz taught Zanna how to skim board, and by the end of the day she was getting pretty good at it! Way to go Zanna!

I love going to the beach. The husbands weren't there, but we had fun anyway. (sorry honey) The kids played at the beach until dark, rode scooters to get ice cream, sold lemonade, took showers three times a day (Lacey and Carter) and then got up at 7 am (!) to start it all again. They collected sea shells and dug holes before anyone was even out on the beach. Missy and I ran/walked on the beach in the early morning and enjoyed the peacefulness and tranquility that is unique to the beach. The ocean with it's majestic beauty reminds me of all the wonderful creations of Heavenly Father, I am so blessed to live in this time, with this family, in this country. I am almost sad to be back home in Corona. But I did miss Scott alot and sleeping in my own bed is always great. This has been a great summer so far, if only we could go live at the beach for the rest of the time, I would be in heaven! Thanks to the Hafer's for inviting us, we had a blast!

Catch a wave

2008-06-18T13:29:00.000-07:00

Me and T inside of the tent trailer. Obviously T is ecstatic to be taking a pic with me. But if I only took pics of him when he wanted me too, we would not have any pics of him. He is camera shy, though sometimes he surprises me and wants me to take his pic and totally hams it up for the camera. If only I could figure out the magic ingredient to those rare moments...

Scott and I rarely take pics of just ourselves so I thought we should capture one.

This pic was right at sunset, my favorite time of the whole day at the beach. The view was awesome and I loved walking down to view the sunset with the family.

San Clemente Beach was the bomb! We had such a great time! Getting ready for the beach, not so much. Seems there are always glitches when you are trying to get away, but despite the hurdles we had to jump to get there, the beach was warm, sunny, I have to say to quote Lacey "That's what happiness is!" We got to be together 24/7 which was both a blessing and a curse. Though time without electronics was nice, except for Zanna who is permanently attached to her cell, my favorite part was watching the kids play together and really enjoying each other. I will remember those moments when things are not as tranquil at home. I also tried to boogie board. I had to psych myself up just to get out there and then I rode a few excellent waves before sucking some salt water down. (Not a fan, don't try it) It looks like so much fun, I wish I could be as fearless as Zanna. She rides with abandon, I think she needs her dad or Uncle Joe to teach her how to surf. We all enjoyed the ocean and got to go see Kung Pao Panda too while we were there. (I know, I know it's Kung Fu!) Anyway, I am attaching a slide show, because there is just not enough room to contain all our joyful pics!

Life's A Beach

2008-06-13T10:10:00.001-07:00

Yeah! I am so excited! We got a beach camping site at San Clemente for this weekend and we are off to the beach! The only glitch is we are leaving on Father's Day-sorry Dad. I promise to remember what a great Dad you are all year long! Scott is taking time off of work at the spur of the moment, very un-Scottlike. I am happy that he loves his family so much and he made it happen for us. The kids had a blast last year at the beach and yes, so did I. All you non-believers out there, hold your tongues. At least if I have to camp, the beach is the best place to do it. I do love the beach so it kind of makes up for the camping part. We are renting a tent trailer (with a toilet this time) and it is going to be fun, fun, fun. The best part about being at the beach is spending time together and enjoying being a family. We are so busy in our every day lives that when we go to the beach we can slow down and relax, especially Scott who has been working way too much!! We miss him and now he is going to be stuck with us for four days straight with no hope for escape! We are so excited to start the summer off with a bang. Next time there will be pics of our great adventures, stay tuned. Oh! I almost forgot, shout out to friends and family in other states who have visited my blog, make sure to let me know if you have one too so I can link it to mine and see what your family is up to. Love you all. P.S. I am adding some pics that I just found on my computer, because I love my family and I want to show them off!

School's out for Summer

2008-06-04T12:29:00.000-07:00

Now that school is out, well, Zanna is still busy plugging away, but the rest of us are on summer vacation and wouldn't you know it June gloom has set in. We want to start going to the beach and other fun places and now the weather stinks! Lacey has had a great week spending time with her friends and her dance recital is next week! I can't wait to see her dance, she is such a QT. We are also having a ward party this week so we can get to know the people in our new ward better. We have all made the transition pretty well. Lacey has discovered a new friend in her class and we can't wait to have her over this summer to play. Zanna has enjoyed the fact that there are many cute boys, since she is going to be 16 next year. I still have the same job in primary so I am happy, too. I am trying to get beach camping tickets for this summer, but Scott has been working alot filling in for one of his therapists so it might be a miracle if we can get away. I might just have to kidnap him. I have been checking the internet every day to see if there are any cancellations so maybe I'll just get lucky. We are having to split up in July to attend two different weddings on the same day! Lucky us right? One is in Newport Beach (my bro Paul) and one is in Utah (Scott's bro Brent). I am sad that we aren't going to be together at both weddings, but I guess the most important thing is for both Scott and I to support our families. I can't wait to see some of you this summer, anyone is welcome to visit us anytime.

Wild Animals and Promotion

2008-05-27T14:06:00.000-07:00

Well it's that time of year again. Summer is beginning and the end of school has come. Lacey, Carter and Taylor are out for the summer and Zanna gets out in two weeks! Taylor graduated or actually is promoted to 7th grade. He is officially out of elementary school! I don't know what in the world we are going to do for an entire summer together, but I can't wait. It was so fun to have Dan and Jess and family here over Memorial Day weekend! The cousins had a great time together and Lacey and Ty were practically inseparable. I think Carter felt a little out of the loop, but he made up for it by teaching Ty how to chuck mud at Grandma's wall. We all went to see Indiana Jones it's opening weekend. I still have a neck ache from sitting in the front row! That said however, I wouldn't have missed it, Indiana is a cultural icon that will live on with my kids, much like Star Wars. It was really fun. On Monday we ventured to the Oak Canyon Nature Center and hiked and played with the wild animals. Really they were stuffed and we only saw birds and a few creeepy crawlies, but it was fun to be together as a family. We ended the day with a trip to Ruby's Diner which seemed appropriately patriotic in honor of Memorial Day. We are so excited that Uncle Sam is finally back with his family from Iraq!! We send out a big hug and lots of kisses and a GIANT THANK YOU for his service for his country and all of us! I AM PROUD TO BE AN AMERICAN and I am happy my little brother is home on American Soil. God Bless the USA.

I Can't Wait

2008-05-18T20:56:00.000-07:00

Lacey and Scott looked adorable when they went to the fifties style Daddy Daughter Dance. Lacey was so excited to go with Scott and dance the night away. I remember one year when Scott sprained his ankle earlier in the day and he still went and danced...what a good Dad! Lacey has such an effervescent spirit about her. Her emotions just bubble out of her like a champagne bottle.

I can hardly believe Zanna turned fifteen! It is not possible to have a daughter that is going to drive next year, and GASP! DATE! She can tell you down to the day when she will be able to get her permit, she is ready to go. She has done amazing in high school. Cemetary, oops I mean seminary and all. She gets up every day without me bugging her and has kept up a 4.5 grade point average all year. I don't know where she gets her skills. (I am sure there are a few of you right now who are trying to take credit for that)

Carter is enjoying his last days of kindergarten and says he does not want to go to first grade because he will miss his teacher, Mrs. Kim. I love her too, she is a great teacher. I have known her since Zanna was in kindergarten, so we go way back. Taylor is happy to leave sixth grade, only because it means he gets an entire summer off school for the first time in his entire school career. Needless to say I am really gearing up for a fun summer. (if you can't feel the sarcasm oozing out of that sentence, you probably should go back and read it again) I can't wait to see my family this summer! Paul's wedding is almost here!! Yeah!! I just got the invitation and I can't wait...

Time moves on

2008-05-07T15:51:00.000-07:00

So life is rushing on at a breakneck pace. I thought that when our ward was dissolved and Scott was released from the bishopric, things would start to slow down, but I was wrong (not for the first time). We have kids doing dance festival on two different nights, which doesn't seem like a big deal until you have to get them there. Anyway, with four kids, we are constantly in motion. Except for when I am sitting at the computer. Scott keeps asking me to come and work for him when Carter goes to school full time, so if there is anyone out there that has a better proposition for me, let me know asap! I will consider all offers that will excuse me from having to take orders from my husband. It will be bittersweet having Carter in school all day. He is such a sweet boy, I love to have him around. The kids are all looking forward to getting out of school soon. Taylor will be heading off to junior high in the fall, so he will be home for the whole summer with Suzanne. (I will also be considering job offers for them) Lacey is having her second dance recital in June. She is such a good dancer. I love to see her dance, because it reminds me of myself. For those of you who don't know, I love dancing and Lacey is just as enthusiatic of a dancer as I am. If you ever want a little example just ask. We are trying to arrange a family vacation for the summer, but with Scott's schedule be may have to stay home. We had a great time camping at the beach last summer and we are trying to arrange that again. If anyone is interested in a beach campout let us know. Applications can be emailed and we'll get back to you if you are under consideration. Just kidding!! We would love to spend time with any of our friends and family.

Induction

2008-05-03T12:42:00.000-07:00

Well it's official I have been inducted into the latest fad of this generation. What remains to be seen is if I can actually master the world of blogging. Since I have done so well in the world of motherhood....we'll see. Hopefully this will allow me to communicate with my family members that have far surpassed me in the internet world. I think that means that I am getting old. However in my defense I am an excellent texter, thanks to Suzanne and the many times that she texts me during the day. When she is supposed to be in school. However, she does manage to maintain a 4.5 grade point average, so I guess I shouldn't complain. Even though that is one thing I actually excell at. Life in the Hunsaker home has changed a bit lately, so for those of you that don't know, we are in a new ward and Scott is now the priest quorum advisor, which he is enjoying, especially right now because instead of working he is swimming and playing volleyball with them. I don't officially have a calling in the new ward, but hopefully I will on Sunday. It has been fun getting to know people in our new ward, I hope we all adjust okay. School will be out soon for the summer and I don't know whether to celebrate or cry. I will probably do both. Scott bought a new office at the end of last year, so he has been super busy with work, however, he loves for us to come visit him on Saturdays, I think it's so we can help him clean up. It's fun to be able to help him and spend time with him, and the kids love to use his exercise equipment. (Even if they don't use it the right way) I hope to continue on this endeavor and keep updating the chronicles of the Hunsaker Family.
Parting is such sweet sorrow, dance like there's no tomorrow!