The Giles Family

What You've All Been Waiting For...

2011-11-08T12:54:00.001-08:00

Okay I finally took a minute and drew names for Christmas. So without further ado...

Dan- Dana

Amy- Carrie

Dana- Jeff

Katie- Miranda

Eter- Dan

Sally- Katie

Jeff- Amy

Carrie- Eter

Miranda- Sally

I think we've come to a consensus that we're skipping the grandkids exchange this year. And don't forget- we all have mom :) I'm getting so excited for the holidays!!! Can't wait to see everyone.

Christmas 2011

2011-11-01T08:57:00.000-07:00

What are your Christmas plans? Carrie and I are planning on going to AZ but we don't know what dates everyone else will be there. We may fly this year since Allegiant Air now flies to from Las Vegas to Gilbert for super cheap.

Also we were wondering if we are going to do a family photo this year. We don't have one with Eter, James or Carrie. So please post your plans...

Where were you on 9-11-01?

2011-09-11T22:13:00.000-07:00

Its hard to believe that it really has been 10 years! We thought it would be interesting to get everyone story of where and what they were doing when they heard about the attacks! So tell you story please...

One More Page

2011-08-30T22:51:00.000-07:00

In Case You Were Wondering What You Were Doing on a Random Day in June When Carrie was 6 Months Old

2011-08-30T15:33:00.000-07:00

Emma's been a little curious about me as a person outside of motherhood lately (kind of an amazing thing:) and so she was pulling out my journals. I made a rule though that it has to be when we are the same age. So my first reeal journal is when I was 11 (see below) and I screen-read it for her and thought it was pretty funny-(ie the "bitchen" part, describing the "b" talk, and calling Sally stubborn) She has a hard time reading my cursive. You may too. And I like Jeffy's artwork :)

Interestingly, I was 4'9" and Emma is 4'9"! She may have some scrawny days ahead- hopefully not as much as I was.

More Pictures

2011-08-10T09:20:00.000-07:00

I felt like I reached maximum picture capacity on my post but I had a bunch more I wanted to share with you guys. Last time I tried uploading to FB it was a nightmare (I know it's bc I didn't compress the pics but I don't want to take the time) so here you take the ones you like and add them to Fb yourself if you want.

I really love this one.

cute!

awwww

(running backwards)

I truly had the best week. I keep thinking about how much fun it was :) Thanks everyone!

Family Camp time! Yahoo!

2011-07-23T16:25:00.001-07:00

Did I get your attention? Besides Pringles, what do we need for a campout? I have lots of equipment we can share, but we may also want to have duplicate things at each campground.

Things I have:

Lrge tent -- Klevens are going to use it.

Med. tent

2 2-man tents (one belongs to Jeff)

EZ UP cabana

small pop-up beach shelter tent

several large tarps to put under tents

table

lg ice chest

stove

lantern

cooking pots

lg & small griddles

rack for over the fire

lg water jug (the big orange kind)

smaller portable water jug

2 good camping mattresses (air cushioned)

1 double air camp mattress - not the one we use in the house

rake and broom

and a bunch of other small stuff: rope, flashlights, etc.

If you want to uses any of this, I'll plan to bring it. Grampa suggested I bring his big car, too.

Take it away, Campers!

The Life and Times of James Benjamin: Extraordinary Newborn

2011-07-19T12:44:00.000-07:00

Over the last 4 days I had the privilege of being part of the beginning of baby James life. And watching (along with offering occasional advice) Sally and Eter learn the ropes of parenthood. It was really and truly a privilege. Seeing him, holding him, smelling him, being in the beautiful weather, spending time talking with Sally and Eter, reading a great book ("The Forgotten Garden"), sleeping in (unintentionally- but savored nonetheless) And taking a few pictures :) Sally gave me permission to post about their cute little baby and I REALLY had a struggle to narrow it down a little or else I'd post about 50 pictures (which is the first narrowed-down number and they are all cute). But it is a family blog and lets face it, a new family member isn't born every day. So no one's complaining about too many pictures right?
A few are blurry- but still cute. He kept trying to smile.
Got to spend one day with mom there :)
Might be my favorite.
Also a top contender.
Ready for 1st bath. Soo handsome! (and mommy in the background:)
Sleepy boy.
He's telling me I'm his favorite aunt really loudly. (actually his cry is very little and sweet).
Emma's favorite.
The very cute family of 3!
Welcome sweet baby boy! Can't wait to see you (and all the rest of you) in 2 weeks!!!

Jane's 11 year old trip- Catalina

2011-06-12T16:46:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was the Catalina day trip. We had such a great time!

Earlier in the week (Monday) Mom fell at school at broke both pinkies! We didn't think that they would let her Parasail but they said "she didn't have to hold onto anything, so she was free to go"

Here we are.... it was sooo fun 1200 ft high!

After a long day, sitting on the submarine put poor mom to sleep!

It's Time

2011-05-15T22:17:00.000-07:00

Okay I've been meaning to get this up here for awhile. Are you feeling like your excited for camping at the beach this summer but want some info? Yes, I thought so. So here's the map of the campground with our sites marked:
The first one on the left is site #001 and it's for Mon-Wed (2 nights)

The next red dot is site #106 Tues-Thurs (2 nights)

The next red dot being under the previous site is #107 Mon-Tues (1 night)

And lastly closest to the beach #90 Thurs-Fri (1 night)

So we need to figure out who's going where and when. Sorry we have no weekend nights but this is all we could get. So we have 2 sites Monday-Wednesday with one group moving from 107 to 106 on Tuesday. But that group can stay there until Thursday. Then Thursday that group or a new group can take 90. We are going to try and get a couple nights at that BW we stayed at last time so let me know if that interests anyone else too.

Check-in is at 2pm check-out at 12 pm so the people moving will have that 2 hr window. Here's the link for more info:

http://www.parks.ca.gov/default.asp?page_id=1029

Hopefully we can make this work for everyone :)

Remind you of anyone....?

2011-05-10T19:54:00.000-07:00

GRAVE YARD!!!

Here's the big question... is it nature or nurture?! Hmmmm.................
Both Eter and I had colds this past weekend. Him first, then me. I CAN assure you and I'm sure he'd like you to know, he did NOT do this. :)

I gather the blossoms...

2011-05-07T23:31:00.000-07:00

"For if I love flowers and meadows and walking,
I learned how to love them, dear Mother, from you."

I have always really liked the primary song 'I Often Go Walking' because it reminds me of Mom. I still pretty small when Mom went through her Landscape/learn every plant in Latin phase. It was a little like having a mom who was also The Good Witch of the Garden, learning to cast spells to make things grow beautiful around her.
Today I spent my afternoon at a local nursery looking for perennials with good color mixes. I said the Latin names out loud as well as I could, casting poor attempts to give my summer a little more beauty to help balance the craziness of work.
I brought my flowers home and got too much sun as I mixed the dirt with my hands and put the fragile little guys into their friendly little pots.
I hope the spells work.

Happy Mother's Day to the best Good Witch of the Garden Mamma.

And happy Mother's Day to my beautiful Sister-Mommas,
I hope I can be as good as you when I grow up.

Happy Easter!

2011-04-24T22:44:00.000-07:00

I hope each of you had a great Easter Sunday. We don't have any major changes from last year but nothing's wrong with a little grandkid cuteness right?

Maybe we can get baby Rodriguez out here next year :) We so need another boy in this picture. Or two.

An Easter Hymn

2011-04-24T22:20:00.000-07:00

I was thinking last night about how there are so many amazing Christmas songs there are and how it's not fair that there aren't as many great Easter Carols. Then it occurred to me that one of my favorites would work really well, with a few adjustments. I scribbled this out during sacrament today. If you try to sing it, you might have to play around with the timing a little, but I think it works.

O holy morn, one star still brightly shinning

When in the east the sun begins to rise.

Long lay the world in sin and error pinning,

But he laid down and heavens cried.

A thrill of hope, the weary world awakens

For this day is a new and glorious morn.

Stone rolled away. O, hear the angel’s voices,

Why seek ye him here?

He is not here for he is risen.

How dark the night before the lovely morning

How dark the day as the earth and heavens mourned

Brightly the sun shines on the empty tomb

Mary, she kneels and weeps, heartbroken.

A man stands by, she cannot see the wounds

“Where is he sir? You’ve ta'en my Lord away.”

“Mary” says he. She turns at last to face him.

“Rabboni, Lord.” Master is his holy name.

Truly he taught us to love one another.

His law is love and his gospel is peace.

Chains he did break, making everyone a brother.

And in his name all oppression will cease.

Sweet hymns of joy in grateful chorus raise we

With all our hearts we praise his holy name:

Christ, risen Lord. Then ever, ever praise we

His power and glory ever more proclaim.

His power or’ death ever more proclaim.

I love you all, and am very grateful for this day to remember the gift of the atonement which will bind us together forever as an eternal family. 'O death, where is thy sting? O grave, where is they victory?'

Sal's First Shower

2011-03-18T10:18:00.000-07:00

When Amy and I went down to San Diego we got to see Eter and Sally's new place and also shower them with love and presents for their little guy. Well it was more of a dumptruck of love but I thought I'd share a couple pictures since most of you weren't there.

It was hard for Eter to curb his enthusiasm for all those baby goods.

We began to realize denim isn't quite as popular as it once was.

I think this is when Amy was trying to fix their ottoman she broke by falling off of.

And I paused long enough to take a picture as I devoured a big bag of Trader Joe's sweet potato chips they didn't care for. Anyone else have any? Because apparently I can polish one off in about 20 minutes.

Can't wait for sweet baby James :)

Awkward...

2011-03-15T10:27:00.000-07:00

Except Carrie that is. Although I think Miranda's heel clicking glee might be my personal fave.
seriously, Carrie puts us to such shame.
preggo-jump.
on the way back down.
not too shabby...
And the one toe leap :) Love you mom!

We Don't Need No Stinkin Photobooth :)

2011-03-15T10:17:00.000-07:00

I just love the one where Carrie is the only one who listened to mom and did a crazy face.

Haha- so funny :)

Wait Sal- did you do one too?

Jeffy a.k.a. Mini-Dad

2011-03-08T09:24:00.000-08:00

I feel kind of bad that Jeff is getting left out of this weekend's fun. He's probably less sad than we are about him missing a Girls' Weekend (which was pretty much every weekend of his life for 18 years), but I thought now would be an appropriate time to show some uncanny likeness photos that I found when I stole the old photo albums for mom's party last fall. I wish I had Katie's or Carrie's fancy picture-collage skills. You'll just have to check these out the old-fashioned blog way.

Even asleep, Jeff looks like Dad. (Ignore the whipped cream prank occurring. Or laugh, hehe.)
It's a little further away, but check it out. Same position even.
Jeff, be glad you just LOOK like Dad when you sleep and didn't get Dad's crazy light-sleeper gene like I did. This morning I literally wanted to shoot an innocent bird that started singing away right outside my window when it was still dark out.

But back to the subjects at hand. I would literally think these pictures were the same person, if not for the aged-ness of Dad's graduation photo:

I have to say that Amy makes a similar face... but I'll save that for a post that is yet to come....

A Conversation

2011-03-08T08:47:00.000-08:00

Campbell: Something, something something (I can't remember what)

Sadie: "Duh Campbell!"

Campbell: "You don't say 'duh' to me!"

Sadie: "Nooo. I was saying like "Da-da-da-da." (in a sing-songy way)

Campbell: "O-kaaaay"

Laughter

A little example of their hilarious conversations.

They love each other so much! We're so grateful for their family.

Vacation, All I Ever Wanted

2011-01-10T10:07:00.000-08:00

Okay, I think we have some dates that will work for everyone (i hope!). How does Aug 1-5 (first week of Aug.) work? Works for me and Miranda so far. We're thinking of doing beach camping again somewhere down by Sally and Eter and that way she can come during the day and we can all enjoy their sweet 1 month old baby!!!

Here's a few memories from last time. You know, to get you in a beachy mood.

Say you can go Pleease :)

And if I ever find Bananagrams I will bring those too.

July 9, 2000

2010-11-17T12:56:00.000-08:00

I saw this picture and just thought I'd post it for fun.

Time sure flies doesn't it?

The geese are getting fat, but hopefully now that our Halloween candy is finally gone I won't be.

2010-11-12T09:13:00.000-08:00

With my little helpers Sadie and Campbell drawing names for me, I have the results of the adult Christmas exchange!

Dan-Dana

Amy-Miranda

Dana-Carrie

Katie-Jeff

Eter-Amy

Sally-Katie

Jeff-Eter

Carrie-Bubba

Bubba-Sally

Miranda-Dan

This is so exciting to have some new people. Yeah! We love our new people. They're awesome!

Unfortunately, the child gift exchange is as boring as always (although we do love the boring grandchildren too). A little more fun there next year maybe :)

Also, if anyone knows their Christmas plans please put them in the comments. It'd be great if we could all be together for a day or two :)

The After Party

2010-10-18T20:46:00.000-07:00

It was short but to me, very sweet. Something about us all being together at "home" felt really special. Can we all agree to get together again soon? Did we ever figure out Thanksgiving and Christmas? Will everyone be out here right after Christmas besides Randa?

Here's mom and the divider- taking it all in.
the Clones and Eter.
The good photography chair in poor lighting.
I had to include this one for Jeff's face :) does anyone else think Jeff's becoming quite photogenic? Must be another Carrie-influence.
It was really neat listening to what grandpa had to say. (Another thing I should've videod!)
You both have a bit of an eyebrow lilt going. I'm gonna have to work on that. Actually, maybe just Rand.
Cuuuute.
aint no party like a Giles house party. Hey! Ho!
Nice to just relax and enjoy each other for a little while after the party. And I had to add this for Eli's very special balloon. And it's cute of mom.
I really miss you all already. Camping this summer. 5 days. Let's do it.

Online Entrepeneurship.... help!

2010-10-03T23:01:00.000-07:00

Amidst last week's excitement of lightning striking our backyard, Eter having a part-time job (which we hope will last a while) fall in his lap, and our FREE 6 month anniversary trip to Disneyland and the Disneyland Hotel....

I've been busy making some prototypes for a new product I hope to start selling, online (Etsy.com, maybe ebay, maybe our own website), by word of mouth, and possible at some kind of boutique things in AZ that Amy just told me about.

It's re-usable gift couture (?), which saves time, the environment, and your great aunt's hands by getting rid of the old style ribbon and replacing it with (something like) this easy-on/easy-off number:

There are three sizes here. All of them are first tries, and I'll post them individually so you can see them better. The ribbon is elastic, so there is no tying when wrapping or tugging when opening. And it can be used over and over.

I think this one is the most successful so far. It's a DVD inside, so that's the size. It also works for book size and any smaller box in that general range. I wrapped it with a grocery bag--easily recycled. Do you think it needs to be blinged up? Like bejeweled? I like it kind of simple like this. I guess there could be both options.

This would be the smallest version, and only really works if it goes on straight (vs diagonal). You can't see the ribbon in this picture but it is a light green. This is just a box I already had, but I could get different colored boxes in this size pretty easily and sell it with the box. I've also thought about doing a kind of coordinating set of three with different sizes.

Try to imagine this one with some cute wrapping paper. I'm actually considering selling boxes where the top is covered in fabric--making it reusable and eliminating wrapping paper. But I need to check on how reasonable shipping rates are for these bigger boxes. I don't think they could fold with the fabric glued on.
This is my first attempt at Christmas, which will hopefully be the big push and jumpstart. I also need to get some good green ribbon. I've got the light one, and a dark one that is more bluish-teal. It looked weird, so I went with the brown again here.

Anyway, what do you guys think?

I also need to come up with a name. At least for Etsy, but it would be nice if it could just stay the same. And Eter is working on a logo/background.

Here are some names so far, and please suggest more if you think of any:

Sally's Flower Box Shop
Flower Box Gifters
Gift Box Couture
The Green Ribbon (meaning eco-friendly)

Or any mixture of such?

I need to channel this family's creativity, please! TATUM!!!

Green Card Arrived!!!

2010-09-13T13:03:00.000-07:00

I realized I didn't really tell anyone, so I'll post it here. (Also because I can't stand seeing this same post here anymore. No one uses this blog now! Come on, people!)

Eter's green card came in the mail on Saturday. We got home from the temple, checked the mail, and there it was! About 2 hours later we were in Mexico, at his mom's house. It worked out perfectly because this annual stake party was happening that day, so we went and had some great Mexican food for free (gotta love the church everywhere!), and Eter got to see a ton of people. Then his brother Israel, with his wife Marisol and baby Andrea came over to his mom's. Eter finally got to meet his niece! I went and saw her when she was a week old, but now that she's two months, she's getting cuter and cuter. She even smiled at me. Some people are saying she looks like Eter. Maybe. We think she also looks like her mom.

Is it TOO Early?

2010-08-03T18:08:00.000-07:00

To talk about Thanksgiving? I know our family is more accustomed to last minute planning, but I love to think ahead to nice autumny things and divert my attention from the heat. So what do you think? I didn't just get to see everyone like you all did and wouldn't it be great if we could all be together for one of the holidays? So lets have a blog conversation.

Special Blessing

2010-07-12T16:15:00.001-07:00

A couple Sunday's ago, it was announced in Sacrament meeting that it would be a good thing to take a few minutes, go out to the Gilbert temple site and snap a family picture before construction begins. We're so grateful to be getting a temple of our very own :) Especially since the Mesa temple takes like a whole 15 mins to drive there! This will be like 10. Whew! But really it's exciting that the Mesa temple is so busy that there is a need for another one so close.
It's neat to think that some of these cousins may get married there someday!
(not to each other :)

"H and G"

2010-06-03T21:43:00.000-07:00

The kids waited and waited... and finally they came! It was so fun to see you guys for a little bit!
And then we left to go camping with 3 other families in our ward.
when I see the food in Sadie's mouth it makes me wonder...am I the only one who could think this picture is adorable b/c I'm her mother and everyone else is grossing out at the "seafood"?
After we got back home I found out that Holly's hair was camouflaging a layer of dirt
There were 2 dogs up there which the kids played with a TON. Emma most of all. All the other parents kept saying that we need to get our kids a dog. I usually brush off that comment but I have to say, watching Emma play with them so happily all weekend, I began to feel a little guilty about it.
Eli got down and dirty of course.
BTW, he started a blog of his own today (Elisblog8.blogspot.com) and already wrote 3 posts! I sent you all invitations, but could someone try and look at it before they accept just to make sure it's private? Thank you!
The kids assumed Branba would still be here when we got back and were not happy campers (kug kug) when we returned to an empty house. Did you leave us a box of "Ohs"?

Also, as part of the kids summer schedule, they'll be updating their blogs once a week so you can check them more often.

Check out the Recipe blog

2010-05-16T22:02:00.000-07:00

I posted a new recipe on the Giles Family Recipe blog. Take a click!

Just to put a picture on here for interest, this is the real me these days, "working." Reading, computer open for notetaking, even the phone open there. Don't I look like a good multi-tasker?

For a super interesting documentary about multitasking and our strange world of multimedia and internet fake life, watch Digital Nation from Frontline on pbs.org

My Mother's Day Wish For MOM

2010-05-09T13:45:00.000-07:00

That the happiness and blessings you've bestowed upon us, will be returned 100 fold throughout your life. You are the center of our family and we love you!!!

(sorry for the missing family members!- we'll be needing an updated family photo soon)

1992

2010-04-24T18:38:00.000-07:00

Was it a good year for you?

I couldn't resist posting this picture :) Our family looks so small....and pretty goofy. I guess Jeff's problem keeping his eyes open in photos began at a young age Carrie :)

Was this by chance taken at the church?

The Fantabulous Froerers

2010-04-23T08:59:00.000-07:00

Dan and Amy decided to take on the project of having a booth at Relay For Life this year. They took even more time out of their super busy lives to contribute to this cause- and do a little marketing along the way. Amy went to massage schools and got students who are close to graduating to volunteer their time. People had to fill out some info and get a "once over" by Dan who was fun to watch doing his stuff.
Amy, Tatum, and Eli (he loved this job) stood out front of their booth and offered passers-by free massages (donations appreciated).
I returned for the 5am shift. I could not believe the music was still blaring and how many people were still there and wide awake at that time!
I enjoyed the sunrise.
Emma asked if she could come with me. That girl sure loves to talk!
The Froerer's slept their in a tent so Tatum and Jane joined us for the last couple laps.
It was fun being part of this great cause- even though I didn't really do anything hard for it this year (like try and earn money). But Dan and Amy definitely did. Hats off to them- they are a couple of amazing people :)

Bubba likes sports games and stuff

2010-04-18T20:44:00.000-07:00

So, as you may know. My viewership of sports has increased dramatically in the last year owing to Senor Bubba's sports-likingness. He tells me that there is a possibility that the Suns and the Mavricks (his team of choice, from Dallas) may have a play-off game in the next month.
If this should happen he would like to come down to AZ either attend the game (tickets appear to be about $30) or to at least watch it.
We know that we have seen a lot of each other lately, but really there hasn't been much during wedding craziness to actually hang out and relax together. So this may present an excuse for another get together.
We will keep you posted on the game possibilities. So, maybe we'll be seeing the AZ crew in May.

PS, Great photo, right? Nice spare tire and relief society arms. Nothing like a really really awful candid to motivate.

A Few More

2010-04-09T19:48:00.000-07:00

I don't know why I really like this one.

All listening very intenting to the photographer's instruction.

I left these out by accident before.

Easter Egg Hunt

2010-04-08T09:05:00.000-07:00

Amy is is so great to never forget about the "bunny bread" MMMM....
Grandkids. Looks like we got a spot for a little brown-headed one up front. :)

Salter's Wedding

2010-03-29T10:15:00.000-07:00

So I'm spreading out the love. Since I don't want to overload my blog watchers too much with Sally's pictures, and I know all of us can handle it.

quite happy with this one- and the above.
I love this one but thought I'd put it on here just in case Sally doesn't like it for some reason.
A lucky shot.

so cute!
so cute again (sorry again Ame)
me.

loved seeing you all!

l'hotel

2010-03-09T08:28:00.000-08:00

Best Western Lamplighter Inn & Suites Features & Amenities
Complimentary Breakfast-(not just donuts)
Pets Allowed
Pool- (guy said 84 deg year round)
Best Western Business Plus SM
High Speed Internet

Address:
6474 El Cajon Boulevard, San Diego, California, 92115-2645, US
Phone: 619/582-3088 Fax: 619/582-6873
Toll Free Reservations: 800-545-0778

Dana booked 2 rooms this morning for us and Jeff and Carrie since they are the married ones and could probably use money saving more than mom. But the regular rate is only $78 I think so it'd be fun if anyone else wanted to stay there too :)

Also mom, we'll probably stay at your house on Thursday night still if it's okay.

Block-out Days

2010-03-08T07:44:00.000-08:00

I just thought I'd throw this up for the benefit of all those going to Disneyland this year. It's always a good guide for avoiding the extra crowded days :) Turns out, we aren't going Thursday before Sally's wedding. The kids have class pictures that day so we'll be driving down Friday morning or possibly Thursday afternoon if Dana takes a half day.

Baptism

2010-03-06T22:18:00.000-08:00

Just thought I'd officially invite you all to Eli's baptism next Saturday, March 13th at 1 pm. I know it's a really busy year for everyone so if you can't make it, it's okay. I just wanted you to know you are welcome!!!

The New Giles Family

2010-03-01T22:39:00.000-08:00

Here are a couple of changes in honor of changes:

I cleaned up the look of our blog a little bit. I thought since we are growing physically I would make us look a little sharper. Hope you feel more grown up too.

I added a few cousins and Jeffy + the newest Mrs. Giles (weirdsies!) to the blog roll.

I decided to use bullets to tell you these things because they make things look official.

Also, thank you, Amy and Kate, for keeping your blogs uptodate with the really important family matters.
It was wonderful to see you all in Vegas, can't wait till San Diego!

Here is one of Mom's photos:
Randa

Plans

2010-02-13T09:25:00.000-08:00

We're trying to plan when to take our Disney day and rather than call everyone back and forth, I thought I'd ask on here. We're a little bit thinking if going down to Sally wedding a day early and going the day before- Fri, or possibly Thurs. But I wanted to find out when everyone else is going to be going down and to make sure mom doesn't have anyone else at her house that night except us, and then we'll have a hotel somewhere Friday night and Saturday probably. So when is everyone planning on getting to SoCal for the wedding and where are you staying?

International Diplomacy - AKA - Meeting of the Moms

2010-01-31T08:48:00.000-08:00

Mom came down on Friday and we went down to Tijuana to meet Eter and his "amá" for dinner at my favorite restaurant El Potrero. Don't let the fact that it's shaped like a gargantuan sombrero fool you. It is delicioso and not just some taco joint. Here waiters know how to be waiters and they bring out a miniature hat stand and hang your purse on it next to your table. (Don't you hate that there's never anywhere to put your purse when you go out to eat? But I digress...)

I think they were both a little nervous, while Eter and I were really looking forward to this long-awaiting cultural car wreck. No, really I think because we each know both of them we knew it would be fine, just full of short sentences, questioning looks directed at us, and lots of smiling and nodding. Mom studied her Spanish book the whole way down and actually did a bang-up job! Eter's mom, Ernestina, speaks no English, and mom actually was able to understand and even say a lot in Spanish. Eter titled this picture: "Dos ninas".

This is the two of them afterwards at Eter's house. We came back to pick up some of his moving bins full of clothes and books (also pretty exciting, as we're seeing an end to all this border crossing nonsense!) Anyway, they got on great, as you can imagine. Two proud mamas, so relieved that FINALLY their children who are way past due are getting hitched.

We couldn't help but make the comparison.... As we drove to Eter's, the two of them were sitting together in the backseat, communicating a little more on their own. At one point we heard them exchange the work for bread. "Pan" "Oh, bread! Pan!" It was pretty hilarious. And not too different from Sadie and Campbell's little exchanges... "Me, Ham?"

We love them both. We are so lucky to have had mothers who have loved us no matter what, taught us the value of education, and most importantly gave us a living example of faith and testimony. We feel very lucky, as well, that everyone in our families gets along well with each other. Very rare, I think. Love you all!

"Ant Sally..."

2010-01-13T20:36:00.000-08:00

Eli often asks me who he'll marry and just questions about dating. Like what do people do on dates and what if he marries someone mean. I think it's funny and sweet that he thinks about that stuff. Anyway, he saw Sal's blog post and I could tell he really liked it. So then he went and drew this picture which I just love and thought I'd share :)

ferris wheel in case you can't tell. I also love the shirts.

Operation Bluestone

2010-01-07T23:39:00.001-08:00

ETER + SALLY 4EVER

What, this old thing?

It's gorgeous! He did a great job picking it out and was much sneakier than I expected him to be.

He emailed my roommate and had the ring shipped to her office. Then she put it in his bag while he was at my house tonight. We had planned to go to the temple together, and we did. But when we got there, he said he wanted to take some pictures because we had time anyway. I started to suspect something when he kept going further to the balcony section, off to the side of the temple. He told me to stand and pose first. Then, he looked perplexed and came to show me the screen. But it had words on it about good things coming to those who wait. Very cute. Then it asked me in Spanish if I wanted to start a family with him. I just hugged and kissed him and then he asked in English, Will you marry me? It was the perfect place since that is where we first met, and where we had our first date. It just means a lot to us and always will. We are planning to be married there on March 27! Eter says I'm glowing, and he's right. I can't stop smiling.

Yip, yip, yip, yip, yip, yip!

2009-12-30T22:36:00.000-08:00

Dessert Time

Extraordinary.

Wedding Times/Thanks MOM!

2009-11-29T14:24:00.001-08:00

Wish I could have seen you all over Thanksgiving, but it was a busy time for Mom and I. We worked hard and hammered out a lot of the nitty-gritty details for the big day in LA.
Photos
Flowers
Cake
Sash
Decor
Centerpieces
Menu
Shoes
Going away dress
Honeymoon
Fabric colors
Party favors
etc
etc
etc
Who knew how annoying all these little decisions could be. I'm extremely happy that I only have a month to bother with all this stuff instead of 3 or more.
Overall though, our few days of shopping were really easy. Things kept appearing and working out so serendipitously that I couldn't help thinking that it was all meant to be this way.
I was really happy to get back here to Bubba. We are both much happier when we are together. I think that's a good sign. He was busy working on invitations while I was away. (They should start coming out by the end of the week.)
In all, I owe mom a big huge THANKS!!! for making it all happen. I'm sorry that, in all likleyhood, these kinds of decisions and large purchases will be dominating her next few months, but then again, at least after that it will be done FOREVER. Then let the good-times and babies start to roll.
I love you mom.

Here are a few of my favorites from our engagement session:

This one is my fav

Ahhh hahahaha!

2009-11-10T21:38:00.000-08:00

For the K Family Reunion I'm in charge of gathering a picture of EVERYONE in the family that's served a mission, on their mission, for a world map/missionary display. Anyway, so I was looking for a picture of Don and Shirley in Paraguay and came across a bunch of pictures I haven't seen forever! And in the spirit of holidays, and to continue the flashback theme, I thought I'd share. I laughed at some so hard I cried.

Dana loves this one! I think it's funny that apparently I got someone short like Jeff to take the picture since I was looking so good. The clothes, the hair, the braces, the scrawniness. Feb 1991 I remember thinking that the suspenders were a stroke of pure genius! The 4th 1990. Sally, were we both in our awkward stages at the same time? A great April Fools picture -1992

Sally I just love that you held these up for me so I could take the picture. This one just makes me laugh so hard. Oh- and another "club" shirt. I think this one was mine too! Sept. 1989

JEFF! HAHAHAHA! No date but I think it was October 1989.

A very cute one :) Summer 1989

Morning of our 17th/19th birthdays. 1992

This one's for you Randa since you have such fond memories. "Safety Kids" perform at D-Land. June 1990

Happy Birthday, Randa!!!

2009-11-09T16:02:00.000-08:00

Thought I'd do a little birthday flashback tribute to our favorite youngest sister! We love you, Randa! And what a little cutie you were...and are, of course. Look at these little red pigtails!

Does it get better than a My Little Pony on your birthday? Well, maybe. But look at all your sisters excited enough to be hovering around "helping you" with it!

A few other tidbits I'd like to point out. In this picture, Amy is Tatum's age--12. Katie is 10--about the same as Jane and Emma. I'm 7--Eli. Don't we look older than your kids do?

Also, I love my yarn ribbon and florescent yellow sleeves! Ah, 1985--you were so good to us.

Another thing I LOVE about looking at old picture is the stuff in the background because all of these objects kind of make up the everyday history of our lives. They are what we stared at while eating cereal, or what we broke and didn't want to 'fess up to, or loved or hated even then. So, don't we all remember that Nutcracker soldier? I'm wondering if it snuck out before the Dec 1 official decorating date, or (ugh) had it been out since the year BEFORE? ha ha.
I believe that is my crayon and marker set--loved it!
That clown tricycle guy looks really familiar, but I feel like it came and went. And I don't know where from or to? Anyone?
And, best for last, "I LIKE HOUSEWORK. I LIKE HOUSEWORK. I LIKE HOUSEWORK." How many days did I go to school with that mantra in my head. A lot of good it did this pretty unhelpful child.

A cute one of me and Randa at around 1 and 6. Well, cuter of Randa.

And finally, I found this gem, which of course I love because Dad is in it and being totally himself. It must've been a Sunday, since we're all dressed up. Dad, joking around as usual and ruining my 9 year old cool. I'm rockin' my yellow jeanskirt, and probably sucking down the last of my Halloween candy. (Lollipops are last pick.) And Randa, hamming it up and finishing off all those hand-me-downs. A Grandma Giles special?

Anyway, I love our family, and I love you Randa! Hope you had the best "blessed" birthday ever!!!

A Grand Year

2009-11-08T14:47:00.001-08:00

So who's it gonna be? Who will have the ring and date first? It's like all 3 of you are right there. My eager-osity is getting the best of me. 2010 is a BIG year indeed! (someone please hurry)

And in case you haven't yet heard, Dana and I are expecting in July :) We are as excited as can be. We told the kids today who are already giving us name suggestions and seem to be happy about it (although I can tell Emma is reserving some mixed feelings).

I'm just so excited for everything coming up. And I'm so happy we will all be together for Christmas soon. At least for a couple days. Love you all so much :)

Did too do Halloween...

2009-11-05T16:40:00.000-08:00

Just so you know... Halloween happened here too. Root beer and all.

Nightmare on Peneplain St.

2009-11-02T19:15:00.000-08:00

<----- My pumpkin ate too much candy and threw up all over my porch, so I named her JANE O. Lantern!

My neighbor across the street mentioned that Halloween is a big deal around here, so Carrie and I decided to get festive and decorate the house-- equipped with cobwebbs, orange lights and our pumpkins. Thus began Nightmare on Peneplain St.

Halloween night Doug and his girlfriend, Angela, came over. We didn't end up dressing up this year, but it was fun to pass out candy to the trick-or-treaters as we sat on the porch and ate our Taco Bell. Doug scared many of them. After the kids had stopped coming, we watched "Misery" (awesome movie! I hadn't seen the whole thing and I loved it). It was a fun night of fright, delight and rhyming...

(Carrie wrote most of this, especially the parts that were boring)

To the World's Best Mother!

2009-10-18T20:33:00.001-07:00

"Happy Happy Birthday Mother Dear......"

(I was lucky enough to be there for Mom's b-day this year!)

Grandpa picked up a chocolate( of course) b-day cake for her and we added some candles

it was a party!

(She thought for a min she was going to slice up this cake with No Singing and candles,

although we did let her off with 3 candles!)

I case you haven't heard Mom and Grandpa bought a Wii! This is mom canoe-ing!

She and Tatum were having contests with all sorts of games.

Good times- Good times!

With more to come I'm sure.....remember the karekoe Christmas :)

I know I speak for all of us (although I am not the most well spoken of this group)

THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU!!!!

For all you have done and still do for each one of us. For you example as a Mother, Wife, Daughter, Friend, Teacher and Person..... You are amazing we are forever thankful to be your children!

WE LOVE YOU!!!

...The Geese are Getting Fat

2009-10-12T11:53:00.000-07:00

Ah, Christmastime!!!

So, in the spirit of gluttony and greed, here are the results of the annual name draw:

Amy=> Randa
Dan => Jeff
Katie => Dan
Dana => Amy
Sally => Dana
Jeff => Sally
Randa => Katie

And I guess, as usual, Mom has everyone and only wants to give more to other people in return. :)

So, I guess we'll figure out later when and where we'll see each other, but the important thing (duh, presents) is settled. jk! Love you all.

Found This Cute Picture...

2009-10-09T10:53:00.001-07:00

Possibly taken by Grandma Giles :)

Can't wait to see everyone at Christmas...right?

Health Report

2009-09-18T00:05:00.000-07:00

I'm finding there are a lack of people to brag to about this to, so I can count on my family right? Except I did actually call Amy to tell her this earlier today so.....the rest of you.
You may be of the opinion that I have the sickly genes in our family. I have heard mom say I was her most "sickly" child. Yes, I did get JRA at 10 and yes, I have severe nausea when preg...

BUT after not having my cholesterol checked since the cafeteria finger prinking machine in 7th grade, I decided I better get it checked out- along with the basic "physical" stuff. So....I'm happy to report that my cholesterol which they want below 200, is 165. My triglycerides (fats in blood I think) which they want below 150, is 37! Oh yeah! He said he hasn't seen triglycerides that low in a long time. He said I got an "A+ on my blood work" I haven't gotten an A+ in a long time and I was beaming when he said that. I also got an EKG that looked good.

Best of all was having better numbers than Dana, who was happy, of course, that I'm healthy and receiving glowing blood reports, but a little bit mystified by the fact that I never exercise and he's running marathons.
The doctor concluded with, "keep doing what you're doing" and "I guess you have good genes..."

The Adventures of Atticus Finch

2009-09-14T20:06:00.001-07:00

Meet Atticus. I found him on the ground by the bird feeder when I was watering. In fact, I accidentally watered him! He's missing a number of wing feathers and all of his tail feathers, and I
imagine he had a run in with one of the cats--not

Stripes, of course; I think he'd be afraid of Atticus.

When I reached over and picked him up, he just stayed on my hand and trembled a bit. He can hop from my hand to the bird feeder, but he seems rather weak and shakey--traumatized would probably be the word for it.

I called my friend who knows about birds, and she said he'd grow new feathers as long as he was kept safe. So I fixed him a home in a plastic carton with a loose lid, and I think I'll take him to school-- out of Stripes' way just in case he starts feeling like tiger-ish.

Debbie also said if I keep him awhile, he'll become very tame. So I'll see what happens.

He spent a little while pecking at the plastic box, trying to figure out why he could see through it but not get out there.

Now he seems to have found his pjs and is heading off to sleep.

...To be continued.

Mexican Wedding...with none of those cookies

2009-09-13T22:01:00.000-07:00

This weekend Eter's brother, Israel, and his fiancee, Marisol (cute name, huh?) got married. It was a two-day affair, because the Mexican government doesn't recognize religious ceremonies as legal marriages. So, they have to get married civilly first, and then in their church.
Friday, I went down to Tijuana and they got married legally. And the judge came right to the restaurant--so convenient! Here are some pics of that day with Eter's mom, brothers and the girlfriends.

Hmm, does anyone stand out in this picture? I feel huge around them. And I think I'm slouching pretty good, too.

Then Saturday was the sealing in San Diego, which I went to but didn't get any pictures outside because it all happened during my regular temple shift. Which was actually cool because I got to be the one taking her around and helping her get dressed and sending them out the door to everyone.

After that, Eter waited for me to be done and we drove down to Mexico again for a reception put on by her family. Her sisters made her dress, which was really pretty.

Anyway, I thought it would be fun for you to see his family. And to document at least one of my trips traipsing off to far-a-way Mexico.

3 White Dresses

2009-09-04T23:39:00.000-07:00

No, not your 3 white dresses- the ones I have had in Emma's closet for about 7 years now. They were once Tatum's size 4, Emma's and Jane's- size 2. For Kristy's wedding. I'm just letting any possibly interested peoples know that they are there. And that they could potentially be worn by Holly- size 4 , and Sadie and Campbell- size 2. Either way, I'm kinda excited to get their puffiness out of the closet sooner than later.Haven't seen the wreaths though. Cute picture of grandma :)

Tomorrow we're going camping with the Froerer's and some people in her ward. We're probably going to get poured on. Hopefully not enough to wash the fun away. Wish us luck!

The Ball is Officially Rolling

2009-08-20T19:47:00.000-07:00

Today, after a summer of long and hard trudging through bureaucratic hoops, and with the help of many many kind people, I finally submitted the k-1 visa paperwork. I mailed off 70 pages of documentation that Eter and I have an honest-to-goodness relationship.

Here's us a few weeks ago, starting to really put things together.

I took some footage of this monumental day. Unfortunately, it's a one-woman show (and not a very entertaining show, starring a girl who doesn't ever like being filmed) since Eter has this annoying thing called a job in Mexico. And even though I look perplexed in this first shot, I'm very happy actually! (Just getting old, eew.)

So, don't go making a paper chain or anything. We've got at least a 5 month wait until the paperwork even moves to the next location. Ah, the waiting game! How can it be so hard to do nothing? Thanks to all for your support and love!

New Cookbook

2009-08-20T10:12:00.001-07:00

I bought an awesome cookbook from the amazing food expert in Amy's ward. I am loving this cookbook. Everything I have tried has been delicious and my kids have loved everything too! Plus it's healthy food. So why am I bragging about my new cookbook? Well, I actually bought 2 and I will be giving my extra to the sibling that gets engaged first! That's right, this could be yours. If that's not a reason to rush into marriage I don't know what is! hahhaha.

P.S. This will be in lieu of the previously promised $100. This is better than that- trust me. (And more affordable for me:)

Pres McKay greets Bp. Cottam

2009-08-13T15:41:00.000-07:00

This is a picture of Pres. McKay at the dedication of the San Fernando Stake Center.The man he's greeting is Bp. Joseph M. Cottam, who became the patriarch who gave all of my family our patriarchal blessings.

Good Times with Grandma

2009-08-02T14:47:00.001-07:00

Of course we have all been thinking about Grandma a lot lately. I've been remembering some of the things that made our Grandma so uniquely wonderful.
Here are just a few of my Grandma gems:

I loved getting ready for church up at Big Bear--especially looking at Grandma's jewelry and the bottles and things on her vanity. When I was about 12 I was in Grandma's room, just looking at myself in the mirror, once I was all dressed. Grandma came in and I felt a little embarrassed. She said to me: 'That's alright. A girl needs to admire herself in the mirror once in a while.' That made me feel much better, and I think she was absolutely right.

Another time at the cabin, Grandma was working on her book and Mom was looking over some of it on the computer. We came to a sentence with a structural problem and mom was trying to get her to change it to which she replied: 'Once a person knows the rules well enough, they are allowed to break them.'

In a rare alone time moment with Grandma the two of us went out on the lake in her old rowboat. Once we got out a little ways we couldn't help but notice there were hundreds, or thousands, of lake carp surrounding us and flopping around enough to make the whole lake surface jump. We were both fascinated, and then shocked when we both realized at the same moment that all the fish seemed to be flopping around in pairs. Grandma's giggling put my 11 year-old embarrassment at ease and we both giggled our way back to shore.

One summer while I was visiting, along with the Large kids, we all set out to climb Castle Rock. We got to a difficult point where I didn't think I could lift myself up and over. I started to cry and said I would just stop right there. Grandma took a long look at me and said, 'Miranda Beth, I am 67 year's old. If I can do this you certainly can.' And I did and the view from the top was wonderful.

Thank you Grandma for always encouraging and teaching me.

What do you remember?

We finally see'd her in Cedar!

2009-07-14T13:04:00.000-07:00

I have been wanting to visit for a long time and it was so much fun and beautiful!

YEA we're almost there!!!

Miranda's place. On the left. Not to be mistaken with the right which is someone else's home entirely.
She was still out getting lunch for us (so nice) so I explored her room for a minute while the kids rushed the bathroom. I thought he was very cute and apropos!
We didn't have to wait too long to see this bright, beautiful smile!
We chatted and had a yummy pizza and then the Bubster stopped by to visit. It was so fun to see him too! The kids were lovin' it of course. The more attention the better!
Bubba had to go back to work but the rest of us headed over to SUU which, I'm quite sure I'm the last to know, is right across the street from her apt. WOW! Was it ever beautiful! Definetly a sight for sore (deserty, over-wrought with everything brown and cactusy) eyes.

Emma in a nature frame.

campus beauty.

right by the theater. So cool! We REALLY wanted to stay and watch a show and were tempted to even stay the night. Another time though.

long way down.

Saying goodbye :( We stayed an played awhile not anxious to leave the beauty and the kids not anxious to return to the car for 3+ more hrs.
Again, I was in awe of what a super little sister I have and how grown up she is. When did I get so old? Thanks for the fun visit :) We love you!

2009-07-11T10:44:00.000-07:00

Emma started a blog. She's done it all herself. She would be super excited if she got a few comments. It's pepperkittyemma.blogspot.com

Our Brother (or son)- The Man

2009-07-09T21:36:00.000-07:00

Maybe it's the fact that I don't see Jeff enough or that he's now 28. Or the fact that the older he gets, the more he reminds me of dad from my childhood memories. (K- this was supposed to be funny and now I'm teary). But- little Jeffy is all grown up and I've got the pictures to prove it.

We visited him and his new house on the way to Utah. We got there at like midnight and Jeff was so kind as to give our family his room with attached bathroom. And Carrie was so kind to wait around for us too. Upon arrival it unfortunetly became very anti-climatic with crying, tired kids we had to deal with and try to get back to sleep. But it was fun to see her. I guess the whole experience together made me think of Jeff as a grown up instead of a kid.

Since I don't know that Jeff is planning on posting "new house" pictures anytime soon (if ever), I thought I'd give him a little help. And let's face it- I'm like the family photographer. I hate to name drop but "Salter" may have possibly mentioned something to me about wedding photography. They might have been saying it in a "desperate times, desperate measures" kinda way, but twas said just the same.
It was dark but the neighborhood looked really cute.
Homeowner extraordinaire to greet us.
Fabulous uncle day and night.

They were leaving for NYC the next day, and we were off to visit Randa in the morning early. But we did have time to chat before we left. That's when it hit me- Jeff is a man. He's got a house, a job, he's taking trips, he's found a very sweet, fun girl, he's an awesome, grown up guy! Go Jeff! And thanks for letting us barge in the day before your trip. It was short but sweet. We LOVE you!!!

Stay tuned for upcoming Cedar/Randa/SUU post.

smore anyone?

2009-06-26T18:27:00.000-07:00

It was so fun to meet Eter, even if I still can't say his name right!

(We all agree Sal he is a great guy.)

Hope we didn't scare him away meeting ALL the family at one time.

This was the only picture I got of him, enjoying his 1st smore!

Thanks again everyone it was a Good time.

Until next year....

hopefully we can increase our numbers "smore" by then! :)

Man, that was fun.

2009-06-22T14:32:00.000-07:00

I posted a BIG post on my blog and I'll be emailing you each some pictures from our trip. Thanks for being so wonderful everyone!

2009-06-17T15:13:00.000-07:00

For any one who can make it:

Mission Viejo 2nd Ward meets at 11:00 am
27976 MARGUERITE PKWY, MISSION VIEJO

Its about 15 minutes north right off the five. You can get directions on Google Maps. This will work out well if we got to sacrament and then head to mom's for lunch with Grandpa.

Don't forget the shoes.

See you tomorrow.

"Getting to know you...." (you add the music)

2009-06-16T07:26:00.000-07:00

I thought it would be fun to do a little quiz at the "vacation" see how well we know one another and get to know others :). Fill this out and bring it, we can review while eating smores around the campfire. (Kids too)

Favorite movie_______________

Favorite Book________________

Favorite childhood memory_________

Favorite time of Day____________

Favorite scripture_____________

Favorite thing to do in free time______________

Favorite treat or Candy___________________

Favorite color________________

Favorite animal________________

Countdown

2009-06-11T21:41:00.000-07:00

Everyday the kids ask "how many days until the beach campout?" Now it's only 1 week! As excited as they are, I'm sure I have them beat. Amy and I are doing a little "summer school" where we trade kids and try to teach them something new or do an activity. The kids all made this flag together. Now I just need to get a pole/stake for the ground and we'll have our Giles Camp flag all ready. Hopefully it catches some air at some point! Whose tent are we using? We have 2 sleeping bags we can bring.

Food schedule

2009-06-08T15:21:00.000-07:00

Here is the plan let me know if it doesn't work for you......
We figured who ever is camping can feed their group breakfast the next morning,
if your at the hotel they will provide breakfast for you there.

Thursday- Dinner Amy & Dan,Jeff,
we have a dutch oven and plan on using it for our dinner.
Friday- Dinner Kate& Dana, Rand
Saturday-Dinner Mom, Sall & Eter,

You can talk with your group and make whatever you want we will have a b-bque pit also a small camp stove, and a dutch oven you are also in charge of clean up and paper goods and utensils and cups or drinks for your night.
Can't wait, it will be so fun to see all of you and play!!!

Food schedule

2009-06-07T15:10:00.000-07:00

I was thinking about calling you all and then thought better!
That is what this handy blog is for...
1st Who IS coming? as far as all boyfriends/girlfriends?
This is where you must repsond!
After that I can figure it out.
Lets hear it......

Sleeping Arrangements

2009-05-30T11:33:00.000-07:00

1ST Night -
Camping- Froerers
Hotel #1- Klevens
Hotel#2- Mom, Sally, Randa
Truck- Jeff

2ND Night -
Camping- Kids Campout (Tay, Jane, Dallin, Emma, Eli, Holly) and Dan and/or Dana (if room for both) Eter (air mattress on concrete? Or whatever hotel Sally's in)
Hotel #1 Kate, Sadie, Mom, Sally, or Randa (I split the babies up so that they won't wake each other up in the night)
Hotel #2 Amy, Campbell, Mom, Sally, or Randa
Truck- Jeff

3RD Night -
Camping- Mom, Amy, Kate, Sally, Randa
Hotel #1- Dana, Eter, Kleven kids
Hotel #2- Dan, Jeff, Froerer kids (kids can mix up a bit between the rooms if they want)
Jeff if you could peel yourself away from your truck for that night it would make it more fun.

So...whatcha think?

Map

2009-05-23T21:49:00.001-07:00

Sorry I keep posting but I found this map on the website and now that we know we are lot#98 we can kinda see where we are (click on it). We are on the far left side between the road and the bathroom. It's not right on the beach like I thought it was, but being close to the bathroom is nice too. Especially for those of us with little kids.

Also just talked to the guy and asked him how many tents could fit there and he said 1 medium tent. Wah-Wah. But he did say we could fit 3 cars there (1 free, $10 PER NIGHT for the other 2)and maybe put an air mattress out on the concrete he said. I'm thinking it has more concrete than dirt. But- at least we have the site! (We weren't so sure for a minute last night- scary!)

Dana called the hotel and it's 6 people per night there. Everyone will basically get 2 hotel nights and 1 camping night. Right now I'm thinking us and the Froerer's in the hotel rooms the first night, possibly a kids camp-out the 2nd night? Excluding the "babies". I'll keep working on it. I want to switch up who we're bunking with on the different nights a bit.

I can smell the firepit already...

2009-05-23T01:01:00.000-07:00

Amy's wearing her Pac-Man shirt. Mom's doing mom stuff (helping us all get food looks like). Sally appears to be eating a Ding-Dong. Jeff's little (big)head is peeking out from behind Sal. Randa enjoying the scene from Heaven. Dad taking the picture. An idea may be forming in my mind of having a conversation through song with the sea. Mom describes on the back "July 1982, a super day at the beach."

More super days are soon to be. He he!

Non church related "Good News Minute"

2009-05-13T00:54:00.000-07:00

Well after lots of calls not getting me anywhere, I finally wrote a letter to whomever it concerned at "Reserve America". Now within just 5 days, I have a refund for 2 campsites that laid vacant in mid-December (along with 85% of the campground).
So, I will be able to enjoy our family vacation completely untainted by my error. AND I'm getting sooooo excited for the trip! Especially with these 100+ temps we're already getting! Yea for the beach!!! Do Dana and I need to buy a tent beforehand? We want to soon anyway, so we can.
We are on our last full week of school here! Anyway, thought I'd share:)
Do we need to make any other plans?

2009-05-10T00:13:00.001-07:00

Mother of the Year

2009-05-09T23:37:00.000-07:00

To OUR Mom the mother of the year!

She finally gets the recognition she deserves... go check it out

http://news.cnnbcvideo.com/?nid=tLF1AMj2.PIW12qRHhZP_TIxNzY2Mjg-&referred_by=16253465-sZqeL.x

Recital

2009-05-05T14:05:00.000-07:00

Tatum, Jane, and Holly had their recital on Saturday. It was so much fun and so cute with beautiful costumes. Amy and her girls did alot of work decorating the costumes up and they turned out so cute! All the girls had so much fun. Holly LOVED watching her big cousins dancing. Tatum and Jane were awesome! It's fun to see the older girls and how much they learn. A lady in Amy's ward did pictures of the girls in their costumes.

Great job girls!!!

Back-pat

2009-04-20T22:14:00.000-07:00

I bought photoshop elements a few months back and have played with it a few times. It was a little bit harder than I expected it to be. Tonight I FINALLY made something! It's definetly a first try but kinda fun!

April 16th

2009-04-16T09:59:00.000-07:00

Just wanted to say Happy Birthday Kate! Glad We have always been able to share them!

(why am I such a nerd?)

Getting my domestic on.

2009-04-13T09:28:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I made a verifiable Easter feast. I think it’s the first time I made a multi-dish, large enough for a large family (even thought it was only for three), pre-planed meal that included a large chunk of meat. For some reason, Mom, none of us seem to have latched on to your meat prepping skills.

Anyway, everything turned out SO good. It was delicious, not UNnutritious, very pretty, and perfectly timed so that the men folk got home from church just as the asparagus was getting tender. I was quite proud of myself. Thanks to all of you who guided me through various parts of the process.

The strawberry angel food cake collapsed a little bit on it's self because the plate was too small. Oh well. It still tastes great! The 'frosting' was strawberry yogurt mixed with cool whip. M-mm-mmm.

Love ya Mom!

2009-04-11T21:41:00.000-07:00

Thanks for coming out mom! We had so much fun having you here.

Hope everyone has a wonderful Easter :)
(If I had a picture of the beautiful landscaping that mom did in Amy's front yard, I'd post it. Maybe Amy could do that for me.)

Life and Love on the Border

2009-04-05T21:51:00.000-07:00

Everyone, this is my boyfriend Eter. Eter, everyone. The long-since promised blog post is finally here. This should also answer your email, Mom.
This is us at the border. If you look closely to the right of my head, you can see a sign for Mexico. It's not super convenient having that international line between us, but it could be worse--like digging a grave for your 4 children in frozen ground with a spoon (that's a test to see if you watched General Conference). Sometimes it's pretty exciting, actually. Like last night when we got to watch some poor schmuck/fulano-de-tal make a break for it and run down the freeway, with some not-so-trim border guards trailing after him. To answer what everyone asks me, we speak both languages--whatever we feel like. Also, I have a passport and he has a travel visa, so we can come and go as we please--relatively speaking.
I got to meet Eter's super-amable family this weekend. Quite the opposite of us, he has only brothers so it's mostly a boy house. But, just like us (referring to Jeff-Carrie, Miranda-Bubba) everyone's suddenly got a girlfriend there too. It was fun, and I think they like me despite my blundering Spanish. I used to think I spoke pretty well....
He's excited to meet all of you, too. Mom will probably be first. Anyone else who would like to, come on down to sunny San Diego/Tijuana!

L'Hotel

2009-03-26T21:39:00.000-07:00

Here it is! I just looked it up and thought I'd post the picture and a little hotel info.

Hotel Information
Best Western Dana Point Inn-by-the-Sea 34744 Pacific Coast Highway, Dana Point, California, 92624-1302, United States Phone: 949/240-0150 Fax: 949/240-4862

General Hotel Information:
Check-In: 3PM (15:00)
Check-Out: 11AM (11:00)
Hotel Ratings: AAA-3 Diamonds
Pet Policy: No pets allowed

Hotel Amenities:
Complimentary continental breakfast
100% non-smoking/public areas
Spa - Sun desk spa
Steam room
Safe deposit box
Baggage hold
Elevator
Guest Room Amenities:
Cable satellite television
In-room movies
Desk/work area
Refrigerator
Wet bar-you never know when you may get a hankerin!
Coffee/tea maker
Hairdryer

Area Information:
0 mile(s) from Doheney State Beach
1 mile(s) from fishing
1 mile(s) from Festival of Whales
1 mile(s) from Dana Point Harbor
3 mile(s) from Mission San Juan Capistrano
3 mile(s) from Flower and Garden Festival
5 mile(s) from Laguna Beach Arts Festival

I'm getting excited already!

Suite Deal

2009-03-23T10:39:00.000-07:00

The "lady" at Dana's work who was checking on what rate she could get us at the hotel just got back to him. Drumroll please.....
for 2 rooms on JUNE 18, 19, 20 the rate is $59/per night (each). Plus tax. Compared to $200 it's pretty good right? What do you think? :)

Celebrating 28 years of Jeff!

2009-03-22T20:34:00.000-07:00

So... As you all know, I turned the big 2-8 this week. Carrie took me out to dinner, to play pool, and for ice cream (she put a lit candle shown in the picture). We went back to her house to watch the new episode of The Office on ti-v0, when I walked into the house and saw myself on the couch! A fully dressed (cardboard) version of myself complete with shirt, tie, basketball shorts, and shoes. It was hilarious! Her whole family helped put it together: her brother was the model for the cut out, her dad created the face image, and her mom got way too serious with the details and drew hair on my legs. It was the most original gift I've ever gotten.
I decided that my birthday should extend through the weekend. Thursday we did everything mentioned, Friday I had a shared surprise birthday party with a couple other guys whose birthdays are close to mine, and Saturday, Carrie and I went to Zions National Park for the day to go hiking. Neither of us had ever been there, so it was fun. The hike we went on said "moderate", but we were sharing the trail with a bunch of little kids and a guy who had two canes (bless his heart) it was a nice walk though. Awesome view. Next time we'll dominate the most difficult hike Zion has to offer.
Thanks for all your phone calls! And the video text from Amy and Tatum.
So that brings me to a critical question: Is Carrie a total creep for making my double? OR is she sweet, fun, and original?
Joke for the kids: Why was the baby ant confused?-- Because all of his uncles were ants?!

Baseball, Brownies, & Beyond

2009-03-08T17:51:00.000-07:00

Carrie and I went to see the Cubs play the White Sox here in Las Vegas. I got the tickets at work one of those advertising perks. They played on our local minor league team's field.

This other picture is us making brownies. This was actually the first time I've ever made them. Yeah, it was probably the first time I've put anything in the oven other than taquitos, corn dogs or some other frozen food.

Anyway, We do a lot of fun stuff together like driving range, batting cages, hypnotist show, gondola rides, long boarding, ping pong, hiking and about every two weeks Carrie waxes my nose hairs. Gross, but I breathe better and isn't it more gross to have hair coming out of your nose?

PS: Here's something for the kids: What do you call a cow with no legs?
Ground Beef. Ha ha I sent Carrie a bunch of jokes like that one day when she was bored at work.

NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!

2009-03-03T13:20:00.000-08:00

This is what my head has been loudly thinking for the past 45 minutes since I found out. Apparently I booked December 18-21 for Doheney for my 2 campsites. I know people make mistakes but this is one of the most annoying ones I have EVER made and feel super irritated. Mainly because now we can't camp there in June- well we have Amy's spot. SO 8 people can camp there in her awesome spot she got. The other reason is now I just have to see if they will refund me $134.00. I called and the lady is going to get back to me. She's like "Didn't you receive your confirmation emails?" which I did but, ASS-U-ME-d it had all the info I had just entered- or that I thought I had entered.
I am so sorry. I feel horrible :(
If you have any questions I'll be here..hanging my head in shame.

Underwear Baby!

2009-03-01T21:32:00.000-08:00

You may have or have NOT read on my blog recently about how Campbell really likes to wear Dallin's underwear? (Opposite of Sadie who doesn't like the diaper)

Tatum has been babysitting for us lately and last night we came home and found this. CAmpbell sound asleep with Dallin's unders over her Pjs! She is so funny! I love that she is starting to show her personality. She is a funny girl, but what a weird thing to like!

Someday we will have many pictures to prove it..... I guess she just wants to be big!

Birthday-Birthday-Birthday (kesuneheight)

2009-02-22T20:04:00.000-08:00

Today, being Eli's birthday, we're signing off from the Kleven birthday extravaganza for the year. It's been a busy but very fun week. We had such a wonderful time in California, mom. Thank you for EVERYTHING. Especially the help with all that fun sick stuff. Sally you too. Thanks so much. I hope we didn't leave you any bugs. Especially grandma. I hope she's doing well. Here's some of the fun things they got for those of you that weren't celebrating with us. Besides all getting to go to Disneyland!

Mom's house

Awesome science experiment kit from mom.

Two books from mom. She read James and the Giant Peach in like 2 days and loved it!

Sadie LOVES this book mom. She really looks for that doggy.

Mom also made a delicious angel food cake with strawberries and vanilla pudding. Yumm.

Tonight at the Froerer's

This is from me and Dana but she also got a cute microphone/activity toy from Dan and Amy.

Art set from the Froerers and 2 little animals and a scripture case from us.

Skateboard for Eli which he's been wanting since he was like 3. Hopefully he'll actually want to learn how to ride it now.

Is he looking 7 now or is it just me? Same with Emma. She looks so "9" now. Sadie...well she's growing! That's the important thing. She'll probably be looking 2 just in time to turn 3, but that's okay!

Even Holly didn't escape the February fun without surprises of her own! We've really been enjoying this one since we've been home :) Thanks mom!

Amy got those little dissolving sponge animals for Holly and she LOVES them!

Plus money and phone calls and thoughts. I feel so blessed (and I know they do too) to have such a sweet family that always makes things like birthdays special. Thank you!!! We love you all so much :) They all have their own birthday post on my blog too if you want to check them out.

After 25 years...

2009-02-08T08:26:00.000-08:00

Hi,
Here is a bit of good news for everyone. I have a boyfriend, officially. Bubba (yes, for all intents and purposes, it is his REAL name.) and I have been good friends since May. We've been spending a lot more time alone since the new year, and, as of this week, we are officially official. (Construe that as you will.) Some of you have met him already, but here is some info:
Born in Texas, moved to Pleasant Grove in high school.
6' tall, loves sports (esp. football) music, and supports my theater habits.
Full name: Gregory (he hates it) Matthew Jackson.
Youngest of 6.
Majoring in Business and working at a land title company.
Missionary in Paraguay, speaks Spanish and Guarani.
Very attractive and very gentlemanly.
So...yeah!

Late Nights

2009-01-28T17:34:00.000-08:00

Emma's new favorite thing is to have a "late night". She had a couple not so great experiences (for anyone) trying to have a sleepover at the Froerer's (she basically can't sleep and bugs Amy all night) so now she LOVES to have late night. It's means they get to stay up until about 9:30 or 10 doing whatever. Well, Amy being the super fun aunt she is let them play a game where they play music and pass around a bag of crazy clothes (and make-up too apparently), then when the music stops you have to put something on. They had so much fun!!! This is what I saw when I picked up Emma. They were cracking up! Photos- courtesy Amy.

Man I love these pictures! I love how their personalities even shine through these crazy costumes. Only question is: who's the craziest?

Say What You Will About Arizona Summers BUT...

2009-01-23T21:42:00.001-08:00

We are LOVING January!

Here are some more...

2009-01-08T13:29:00.000-08:00

"Gram" A Mom and her Boy

Mom looking GOOD!

I look at these and just think I really love all of you ....

Cute Klevens

HERE THEY ARE.........

2009-01-08T13:16:00.000-08:00

I have a cd for each of you but I thought I'd give you a preview. I think they turned out good. I like the colors. As for such a big group I thought they looked pretty good, of couse not all the kids are always looking but what can you expect with 8 of them.

Amy said we can change colors around too if you want or don't want something in color.

There are a few of theseI love them! "The Giles"

One of the Sister Shots,
if there is one you like better we can change the colors,
black and white or sepia or color.
This is sooooo cute!

This turned out good too

New Addition to the Giles Family of Blogs!

2008-12-31T14:24:00.001-08:00

Look at the blog list--I've started a new Giles Recipes Blog.
First up--Oliebollies!

It's posted by gilesfamily141, just like this one, so you can all add to it anytime you wish. If you post a new recipe, be sure to give it a few different labels. I think that will index them so we can find things.

We'll see if it works.

Attack!

2008-12-26T21:34:00.000-08:00

I just had to post this funny picture of the kids attacking Jeff. Thanks Jeff for playing with them. I don't want any of you to leave. I love having everyone here. Thanks so much for coming and being so willing to help me and Amy with so much (like our kids). I feel so blessed to have such a wonderful family.
HONK!!!

Cute picture of my 3 great sisters too.

Mom, thanks for being such a loving, sweet, selfless mother and gram. All your grandkids LOVE you so much- just like your kids :)

Family Pics?

2008-12-18T10:52:00.000-08:00

Just Wondering if we want to do family pictures when everyone is here? My friend who is a photographer will do them cheap and she does alot of fun creative stuff. I know we just did them last year. So please leave you opinion in the comments. I say majority rules. Or Mom if she has s strong opinion. B/c MOM'S always RULE! :)
Can't wait to see you all soon.

Mom when are you coming?

Food, Folks, and Fun

2008-12-12T16:51:00.000-08:00

Lately I've been eating a lot of junk, as tends to happen at the end of every quarter when I'm too busy researching, writing, and grading to care. So, I decided to finally make a nice, homemade dinner. Cooking meat of any kind is a special occasion for me. Plus I had a vegetable, used some fresh herbs, and had (gasp!) rolls. Even though they were just Brown 'n Serves that I saw at Henry's at the last minute for $0.99.

(By the way, am I the only one who looks for a cent sign on the number bar? They should replace that ^ above the 6. I don't know what you would even use that ^ for...)

Anyways, this is my kitchen. These are my friends. I feel like I never share enough what my life is really like. So, you all know Kelly. And this is Melanie, who just got engaged to Brandon. Congrats to them! Getting married in Feb, so I will move to my own room again when that happens. It's been fun. I'll miss living with her. Krystle got engaged, too, and on the same day. Wowsa!

Anyway, the lemon-garlic chicken turned out well, and I roasted these cherry tomatoes for 10 min in the oven with just some olive oil, salt and pepper. We all agreed it was a nice winter way to eat tomatoes. I think we're spoiled in the product dept here in San Diego though.

Can't wait to see everyone at Christmas! It's coming up quick!
PS--I don't think the pictures are going to show up where I want them. Sorry about that.