Happy St. Patricks Day

I recently came across an Irish conection in our family tree (sort of). It seems that after the English defeated the Irish in the 1600, many Scottish people went to Ireland to settle. By 1739, they were tired of not being able to own land, and to have to pay a 10% tax to the church of England, (they were Presbyterian) Many turned to the new world for a fresh oppotunity. They settled in Massachusetts, our ancestor Alexandar McCullough settled in Pelham. The town grew slowly, the first censes in 1765 showed 371 people. It was Alexanders son, Alenander, that fought in the Revolutionary War, and his grandson Levi, that marched with the Mormon Battalion.
So Happy St. Patricks Day to all.

Vist to the Discovery Science Center

Grandma and Grandpa had a fun trip to the Discovery Science Center with Nora and Sara.
Sara hopped right up on this bed of Nails. We were so surprised that by the time we got the camera ready the experience was done. Nora would have nothing to do with it. I think Grandpa wanted a nap!!! Silly Grandpa. Nora was so excited about the climbing wall. She goes on it vertically. My guess she will make it all the way across before long. Sara is so disappointed that she is to short to reach the first hold. You know Sara, any thing Nora can do .....Sara can do......

She can get her knee on the rock, but not her foot.

The reason we went was because of the Magic School Bus exhibit. It was all about Weather. The girls had fun pulling levers and hitting buttons. I am not sure how much they understood. This was a weather TV station with dress up clothes for the different seasons. They had lots of fun at this particular spot, just dressing up. Love the boots!!

We had so much fun, and didn't see it all that we got a annual pass. Grandma and Grandpa and 4 grandkids!! Some grandparents take the grands to Disneyland. We go to Science Museums! Looking forward to the bubble exhibit and the robots!!

Noras B Day Party

Way last September, we had a family Birthday Party at the Beach for Nora's 4th Birthday. We were all short cameras, or had battery malfunction that evening except for our niece April. She just sent us the pictures and even though it is months late, I had to share 3 of my many favorites.

This is Nora with her favorite beach food. Her cousin Natalie from Utah, and Sara with a dirty face.

Pure Joy is what I call this picture. I can't wait for corn season to be back on, so we can go to the beach!! All the pictures were great, thanks so much for sending them. (I decided to get another sweat shirt to wear to the beach.....I didn't realize how ridiculous the Christmas one looks. I am not showing pictures of that)

Not the Best Month

After all the fun birthday posts, we had a tough month. Andy's brother Ron died suddenly of a heart attack. He had lived for the past 25+ years in a town called Regina, in New Mexico. 100 miles from everywhere. So our contact with him had been minimal. It is not a good idea to let relationships stagnate, especially family ones. We made a quick trip to Utah for the Memorial Dinner. It was good to reconect with family members. Then one week later our niece Sarah's and Jareds youngest child Oliver died. He was only 6 months old. He was scheduled to have heart surgery this week. He looked good at the memorial service for Ron, but contracted Influenza and it was to much for his little heart. Our love goes out to Ron's family, and Oliver's family. Once again I am grateful for the Plan of Salvation, and for covenants made in the Temple.

Happy Birthday Andy

Happy Birthday. You are the best animal pancake maker.

That is always a special treat for our kids and Grandkids.

I don't think I know what your favorite pancake shape is......oh, maybe I do........

We really need to get some better pictures of you!!!

Your children give you such interesting gifts.

It could be because you have such interesting realationships with each of them.

I know you are not even getting your favorite meal today.

We are backed up on birthday meals, and your birthday present wasn't even on your top 1,000 things that you would like to have.

But know that I love you, and hope that you have a great day today.

Happy Birthday Wesley

Well, it is your turn to be embarrassed.

Aren't you glad your friends don't know about this family tradition?

Oh I forgot, I told Dana!

I am sure there were trick candles on the cake, and this is picture prof of my "awesome cake decorating skills! (one of the few cakes, I got out of the pan)

First camping trip!

I had forgotten that you were bald at first, I remember the curls that came later.

Look at you....What a cute kid
Your dad carried you around Yellowstone the entire week.
We didn't want you wandering off the path.
We took some great vacations......none of which you remember of course!


This picture was taken the year we moved into this house in Chino Hills.

I have always referred to you as our Million Dollar Baby.

We had to get a new home, and new car, to accommodate this addition to our family.

The seat belt law took effect, and it wasn't safe to put Brad in the trunk any more!

What a fashion icon you were (are). The boots were your favorite.
We could hardly ever get them off you.
But I don't think you have had a pair of cowboy boots since.
The umbrella is a nice touch.


Had to put a picture that says, at one time Brad was taller than you!
It is wonderful to have a brother, but even better to have that brother as a friend.

It doesn't matter how tall you get or how old you are, you will always be my baby boy.

You are such a kind and loving young man. It was such a joy to pick you up from your mission and meet the people who loved you too! Keep up that school work, it will pay off in the end!

I know I keep bugging you about stuff, but admit it, you have gotten away with lots....."my skin hurts" comes to mind.

Love and kisses to you today. I wish I could be with you. You leave to early for me to do pancakes, (and I am not at home this week) we will do them on Sunday.

Love,

Mom

Happy Birthday Sara

Sara is 2 years old What fun we have had this year! You were big enough to have a grandma "Slumber Party", and to play with play dough, and finger paints, and garden. You can do so many "big girl" things. I am glad you still like to cuddle up and read books. That's grandmas favorite part....that and the hugs and kisses. Have a great birthday.