Library Kids

We just learned about a special program that the library is hosting called "Library Kids".  Each week they  get to go to the library where they do a project, listen to a story (being read to them) and get a treat.  The program has been quite successful, even though we just learned about it.  You have to call earlier in the week to get your kid's name on the list.  If you don't call soon enough you can wait as a stand-by, just in case another kid doesn't show (you can claim that spot).

Even though we called and had the boys name on the list, they still had to wait in line to get in and verify that their names were actually on the list.  I'm guessing there were about 30 kids in this younger class.  The older boys were in a different class.

This week the younger boys we're making a Leprachaun trap.  I guess we'll see how well they managed to put their traps together and see if they actually catch anything.

The older boys made a secret hiding book.  They glued pages of old, discarded library books together and cut out the middle where they could store their special things.  Then, when it's on the shelf, it just looks like an ordinary book, but inside are their hidden treasures.

Both groups get to listen to stories after they finish working on their projects.  For those kids who need additional time to work on their projects, they get to finish working during the story time.

Everyone who participated seemed to enjoy the activity.  Our boys are excited and want to go back next week.  We'll have to call early in the week to make sure that we get them a spot!

(Published on 6/2/13)

Going to See the Lights on Temple Square

One of the goals we had for this year was to visit Temple Square and see all the Christmas lights.  We didn't go last year and thought it would be a good family outing.  However, with all of the rush of Christmas we hadn't made it, yet.
With Christmas over and our boys still home from school we decided it was now or never.  So we grabbed the boys, packed the coats and took off to Salt Lake City.  Since it was more spur of the moment, we figured we would grab a bite to eat with one of the numerous restaurant coupons we had in hand.  The trip turned out great!

The last time we went to Temple Square to see the Christmas lights it was very crowded and we were concerned about keeping the family together in such a crowd.  But one of the benefits of going during the week is that the crowds tend to be much smaller.  We were able to walk around most of the grounds as a family, not just a bunch of ducks in a row.

The boys loved to see the lights.  We stopped to see most of the significant statues and monuments on the grounds for small "teaching moments".  At one point we lost track of Quinten who had wandered off but David was quick to find him.  The second half of the grounds visit went quickly due to the late hour and we still wanted to at least see everything.  So we walked past the numerous nativity scenes, around the manger scene in the pond, past the Assembly Hall and with a token glance at the full nativity scene by the Tabernacle we completed our visit and headed to dinner.

For dinner we stopped at Village Inn.  We had a coupon that would get a kids meal free with the purchase of an adult entree.  When we asked if they would honor the coupon the manager came out and offered us an even better deal.  I don't think I could explain it again and it took the manager at least 3 tries to help us figure out what the deal was.  In the end we paid for 2 entrees and a couple of drinks but got more than enough food for everyone!  Whatever that deal was it turned out to be a great deal for us! 

We didn't get home until nearly 10 pm despite our early departure from Provo but it was an excellent adventure and a great memory for our family.

(Posted 1/23/12)

Kangaroo Zoo is Family Fun

Michelle wanted to take our family to the Kangaroo Zoo.  It is one of those places with the super sized inflatable toys.  We've taken our boys to places where these big slides are part of the party but never to an entire arena full of inflatable fun.  Our boys went crazy, non-stop running.  Even for our boys that was pretty impressive. 

The boys were getting all the sliding their little hearts could handle but it was great to see when the older brothers would help the younger brothers to enjoy the larger slides.  David was especially good to watch out and help his younger brother Quinten to have fun on the various slides.

(video)

We had a lot of fun but were only able to capture a little bit of it on film.  But it is enough of a taste of the action to remember just how much fun we had.  We would love to go back and have another day of fun at the Kangaroo Zoo.

(Posted 1/23/12)

Uncle Kyle Graduates

We're proud to say the Uncle Kyle has graduated from BYU.  We're especially excited for Uncle Kyle because he has been a frequent dinner guest in our home these past few years.  Our boys have looked forward to those dinners with Uncle Kyle.  He even has a place at the head of the table reserved just for him.  Now that he is graduated and has a real job we won't get to have him around for dinners anymore.

Congratulations Uncle Kyle!  We're proud of your accomplishment and wish you the best as you move forward with life.  And we'll miss having you around as our frequent dinner guest.