A Day In The Life Of The Riley's...

ELI VERSUS THE MACHINE!

2010-06-01T20:24:00.000-07:00

Eli is in his second year of baseball and he has had a great time learning more about the game. This year, a pitching machine is the pitcher and Eli has been a good hitter. He is still working on his field play but, has become more confident in his skills. Way to go Eli!!!

Swing batter batter!

Keep your eyes on the ball!

Reach for it!

Action shot!

I'm not sure what this is about!

Our big Giant!

LIAM TURNS 2...OR 10?

2010-05-27T21:32:00.000-07:00

William is 2 although if you ask him how old he is, he'll tell you he's 10. We don't know where he got that from but, he says it every time (check out the video below)! Being the third child, Liam got a raging party with his brother, sister and grandparents!!! He had a great time anyways with his new "Big Truh" and "Ah Lawn!" He really is our little ham and makes us laugh every day! Happy Birthday Liam!!!

2 or 10...that is the question!

mmm pizza!

"Big truh!"

Watch out Nana!

Taking the baby for a ride!

"Ah Lawn"

"Am I really 2?"

Make a wish!

"Cake!"

KAYLYNN IS BIG 5!!!

2010-05-27T21:05:00.001-07:00

Our little Kaylynnyloulou is 5. We can't believe she is growing up so fast. For her birthday, we had a girls day out with Mya and Paige. We went to yummy flat bread pizza where the girls made their own pizzas. Then we went to Powell's Candy and went crazy getting all of our favorite treats. And last, we went to Ceramica and painted our own pieces of art. Everyone had a really good time...even the moms! I made a big cup cake cake for fun. Kaylynn thought it was cool. The end result looked better than it tasted. Next time, I'll stick to the small size cup cakes. Happy Birthday Kaylynn!!!

Kaylynn and Mya talking on their fake phones on the way to pizza.

Kaylynn, Paige and Mya making their pizzas.

This is a dog made out of metal.

"This sucker will be perfect for Eli!"

Getting ready to paint our masterpieces!

Such concentration!

The finished product. Kaylynn's very own cereal bowl!

LAYZY ZOO DAYZ!

2010-05-27T20:45:00.000-07:00

I took Kaylynn and Liam to the Zoo with Kaylynn's Pre-school. We had a lot of fun seeing all the animals, including this sleepy lion. I was just laying there right on the other side of the glass, sun bathing.

Liam riding the elephant.

Kaylynn on the giraffe.

Kaylynn, Liam and Mya in the giant egg.

THE END OF THE RAINBOW!!!

2010-05-27T13:34:00.000-07:00

What a crazy Spring it has been. Snow on April fools and even in May...who would have thought? At least it makes for a good rainbow. Daniel took these pictures after a storm. The rainbow went all the way across the sky and looked like it ended right across the street from us. Where's the gold?

COOKIE DOUGH BOYS!!!

2010-05-27T13:29:00.000-07:00

The kids love for Daniel to make chocolate chip cookies. I think they like the dough even better though. Eli and Liam sitting on the Elmo couch eating cookie dough has become a ritual! Yummy goodness!!!

LIAM AT THE PARK!

2010-05-27T13:22:00.001-07:00

I took these cute pictures of Liam at the park!

He really did not want to get out of the swing!

LIPSTICK OR MARKER?

2010-05-27T13:13:00.001-07:00

Liam is so sneaky. He got a hold of a brown marker and pretended it was lipstick. This was the result!!!

BIG SPELLER...AND EATER???

2010-05-27T12:22:00.000-07:00

Eli has achieved an 100% on every spelling test this year! We are so proud of him. As a reward, he got a free meal at T.G.I.Fridays so we took him there to celebrate. I guess he was really hungry from all of that spelling. He ate appetizers, his whole meal (ribs) and some of everyone elses. Daniel and I think he would be a great professional eater!!!

Kaylynn and her pizza!

Liam and his shmorgishboard!!!

Daniel and his prime rib! (mmm so moist)

Me and my Parmesan chicken!

"I think I'm done now!"

HAPPY EASTER!!!

2010-04-07T20:14:00.000-07:00

We all had a great Easter this year. The night before, Liam decided to be up crying in the middle of the night. And then, Eli and Kaylynn decided to get up and find their Easter baskets before Danny and I got up. Those sneaky peeps! After that though, we just had a relaxing day at home and then went to Nana's for dinner. I made a yummy jello salad.

"Is there money in here?"

"I found another one!"

"What am I suppose to do with this grass?"

Grandma stuffing Liam's face!

"Chubby Bunny!"

"I see you!"

Cute couple!

DON'T "BREAK" THE EGGS!!!

2010-04-07T19:45:00.000-07:00

Coloring our Easter Eggs was very entertaining this year. Liam was able to get in on the action and the mess was minor. When we were done, we decided to break out the dance moves and have a little more fun. Danny was having a flashback to high school but, found he wasn't as limber as he use to be.

Sticky!

"I think I need more color on this one!"

The ones in the top row got dropped in the process and are all cracked!

Peek-A-Boo!

"Watch this!!!"

Yes, he does fall onto his back!

No words!

A GIRL'S NIGHT OUT FOR CATS!

2010-04-07T19:26:00.000-07:00

The national tour or "CATS" finally came. I have wanted to see it for forever. Kaylynn has watched to movie over and over so I decided that she was finally old enough to go to a real show. We bought our tickets in December and have been anxiously waiting ever since. We decided to make it a true "girl's night out" and went with our friends Kyra and Mya and Mom and Kacie. We got all dressed up and went out to dinner before. The show was great. Kaylynn loved it and wants to see it again. I asked her if she wanted to be in the play and she said "No, I don't want to be a cat!" It was fun spending time with my little Kaylynnylou!

Kaylynn all ready for a night on the town!

MMM, Hawaiian food!

Mya and Kaylynn waiting for the show to start!

Kaylynn, Me, Mom and Aunti Kacie!

SPRING BREAK AT GRAMMY AND GRAMPY'S!

2010-04-07T19:12:00.000-07:00

I decided to take the kids up to see Grammy and Grampy over Spring Break. Danny had to work so he stayed home but, my Mom and Kacie came with me. We had a great time and did not end up in the hospital this time!!! We did a lot of swimming in the "swamp" and even went to the new Y and went in the lazy river. It was good to see Grammy, Grampy, Little Bit and Aunt Terri. How time flies!

AH Bed Head!!

Fun in the Swamp!

Mom and Aunt Terri surfing!

Kaylynn and her cars! What a tomboy girlie girl!

ELI FINALLY LOSES A TOOTH!

2010-04-07T12:58:00.000-07:00

Eli is almost 7 1/2 and he finally lost his first tooth in early March. He was so brave and pulled it out himself. The Tooth Fairy was at last able to visit our house. Hopefully she will make many more visits!

GOOD CITIZEN OR NOT?

2010-04-07T12:47:00.000-07:00

At the end of February, Eli got an award for having good citizenship in his class. We were so proud of him. He is always very good and polite in class and never gets in trouble. But a funny thing happened that very same day...Eli ended up getting in trouble at recess for pushing his friend while playing tether ball. Go figure! He was in big trouble!!! After writing an apology letter, we hope he learned his lesson! Be good Eli!

A MAJOR CASE OF THE SICKEES!

2010-04-07T12:40:00.001-07:00

At the beginning of February, every single one of us ended up with the flu at the same time! It was such a miserable day with everyone down for the count. I managed to take this picture of Eli that totally shows what we all went through. I hope it never happens again. I felt so helpless.

FUNNY BOY!

2010-04-07T12:23:00.000-07:00

William is the funniest guy I know! He is such a little jokster and loves to make silly faces. He is growing up so fast. He loves to repeat everything you say and is obsessed with puppies and vacuums ("vaa"). He also wants to do anything and everything his Daddy does. We call him the little Mac Man. The picture above totally shows his personality. That is a piece of tootsie roll between his teeth! I always look forward to being entertained by my funny boy!!!

"Vaa" with Daddy!

mmm chips!

All that silliness can ware a boy out!

CLIMBING INTO 2010!!!

2010-04-07T12:05:00.000-07:00

Well, it's been a while since I've posted anything but, I didn't want to forget about the fun things we've done over the last few months. I took Kaylynn and Eli rock climbing at the Y over Christmas break and they loved it. Kaylynn is a regular Spider Woman. She just went straight up to the top. Eli was a little more hesitant but, managed to go pretty high. He liked the ladder better and repelling back down.

"Spiddy Girl"

Ring that bell!

You can do it Eli!

WEEEEEE!

CHRISTMAS FUN 2009!

2009-12-30T12:38:00.001-08:00

We had a great Christmas this year. We decided to make it real low key and just stay at home in our pj's all day. Grandma, Grandpa and Aunt Kacie joined in the festivities and we had a great time. The kids were so excited about their gifts. Eli got a new Wii game, which Daniel and I enjoy just as much as him! Kaylynn got a couple Disney Barbies and a "Make-over" as she calls it. It is actually just some glittery make-up for little girls and as you will see in the scary picture below, she got a little carried away with the pink. Liam got the best gift of all...his very own Dirt Devil vacuum! This kid is obsessed with the vacuum and is always getting the real one out of the closet and leaving the parts all over the house. We thought this would be great for him to play with and save us some time cleaning up after him all the time. It was a hit and he is even a little possessive over it. No one touch the Dirt Devil!!! Daniel and I cooked up a yummy turkey for everyone and Grandpa made an awesome chocolate pie that, according to Grandma, took all day to make! All-in-all, Christmas turned out very nice and of coarse we didn't forget about the true meaning of the holiday. We give thanks to Jesus Christ. We are so very blessed! Merry Christmas!!!

Christmas Eve at Grandpa's!

New jammies and 1 gift to open!

Kacie's having a great time!

Grandma finishing off Grandpa's chocolate pie!

Did I just miss Santa?

Cookies for Santa, carrots for his reindeer, and 5 Santa hats for the Riley's!

Here come the troops down the hall on Christmas morning!

That is a paper crown on Eli's head!

"I see the lights!"

Eli reading a note from Santa all by himself!

A new comfy cozy couch to watch movies on! We were in need of a new one. I am telling you that this has been the best investment. The kids love it!

Kaylynn with her Cinderella!

I had to open many of Liam's presents because all he wanted to do was hold these crazy balls that light up.

One more gift for Liam. What could be hiding in the closet?

"Is this for me? It's just my size!"

"Where's the dirt?"

"Thanks for this really fun box wrapped in shinny paper! What am I suppose to do with it?"

As I said before...Kaylynn got a little out of hand with her "makeover"! Anyone for some WWF Smackdown?

Sistas!

Yummy food!

Merry Christmas to everyone!

CHRISTMAS TREES & "BLESSINGS"

2009-12-30T11:55:00.000-08:00

Preparations for Christmas this year went as usual...hectic to complete but a relief when it was all finished. We finally got our fresh Christmas tree only to find out that it was frozen solid and we would have to thaw it out over night before putting it in our tree stand. On top of that, Eli had both basketball and swimming almost every night of the week so it was hard to find enough time for us all to be together and decorate the tree. It all finally came together and the tree turned out beautiful...with the exception of Liam taking all the lower ornaments off. I thought this would happen so I purposely put the non-breakable ones on the bottom. Daniel actually wanted to forgo getting a tree this year and just have the kids draw a tree on a big piece of paper and putting it up on the wall. I talked him out of this idea sighting that Liam would just pull it down anyways and plus it was a dorky idea! Anyways, Christmas came way too fast and I have decided with three kids, next year I am totally doing my shopping on-line!

Kaylynn!

Eli

Notice how most of the ornaments are higher up the tree!

Kaylynn was tuckered out afterwards!

Kaylynn at her pre-school Christmas program. "Merry Christmas everybody!"

Daddy and Liam being silly in their Santa hats!

HO HO HO!!!

"The blessings!"

"See my sparkly new Christmas dress?"

Looking sharp for church!

SNOW MUCH FUN!!!

2009-12-30T11:30:00.001-08:00

It's snow much fun to play in the snow! Kaylynn loves to make snow angels and Eli is determined to build his own snow man no matter how much snow is on the ground. Liam has not quite figured out what to do with the snow and can't even walk in it because his boots are too big...third child syndrome! Usually it snows and then it melts by the end of the day but, the past 2 years, we have had the pleasure of enjoying the snow for more than a few hours. Here are a few good pictures of some fun the kids had in our winter wonderland!

That's the cutest angel I've ever seen!

"It's snowing!"

Does this remind you of the "Christmas Story?"

"What am I suppose to do with this?"

Eli and his perfect snow ball!

Is it going to stay?

The proud finished product with a sporty hat of grapes on top!

Kaylynn and mommy's attempt at a snow man. The snow was too cold to roll it so a snow pile will have to do!

A little hot chocolate to warm us up afterwards! "Got hot cocoa?"

THE POLAR EXPRESS!

2009-12-29T22:35:00.000-08:00

Hop aboard and take a ride on the Polar Express! We took the kids (and Daniel for that matter) on their first train ride to see Santa at the North Pole! We had so much fun and had lots of treats. The kids loved to look out the window and see the beautiful scenery. They all want to go back next year!

"Are we there yet?"

Kaylynn eating some lunch!

Like father, like son!

HO HO HO!

"I thought there would be more snow at the North Pole!"

Grandma and Grandpa came along for the ride!

Liam was tuckered out!

Look out! Here come Kaylynn and Eli aboard the Polar Express!

MESSY NAPS!!!

2009-12-29T22:26:00.000-08:00

I think every kid has those messy and sleepy moments in the high chair. It just so happened that Liam had both moments a day apart. First, he went a little crazy with berries, beans, and string cheese. Then, he didn't get a nap and fell asleep eating his dinner. What a sleepy mess!!!

Sweet dreams!!!

ELI'S 1ST SWIM RACE!!!

2009-12-29T22:17:00.000-08:00

Eli is our little fish. For 6 weeks, he participated in a rec-swim team. They practiced 3 times a week for an hour and had 2 little swim meets. He did great for just learning the rules of competitive swimming. He got a 2nd and a 3rd place. Way to go Eli!

Eli conquering the freestyle!

The beginnings of a champion :)

A VERY RILEY THANKSGIVING!!!

2009-11-30T14:03:00.000-08:00

We had a great time at Nana's house this year for Thanksgiving. All the cousins were there for lots of good food and chaotic fun! We were in charge of bring the dressing and everyone liked it. Its all about the carrots for color! Here are some pictures from the festivities!

Nana the cook!

Getting ready to eat!

Mmm Mmm good!

The boys are stuffed!

3 girls and a bucket of dress up clothes!

"We love pie!"

Cousin Andrew and Eli. Best buds!

Nikkii and Bodi looking cute!

Our loving Nana and Grandpa!

Liam and Brendan playing telephone. Liam actually clocked Brendan in the face with the phone right after this. What a bad boy!

"Hello, is anyone home?"

Kisses good by!

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!

ELI TURNS 7!!!

2009-11-30T13:36:00.001-08:00

WOW!!! My little Eli is now a big 7! He is getting so grown up (most of the time) and is now a little man. We kept it real low key this year and just had one friend over to eat cake and play his new Wii game (Sonic vs. Mario Winter Olympics). For dinner he wanted to go where we went for his Daddy's birthday. Danny or I didn't want to go back to Chuck-a-rama so we changed it up and went to Golden Coral instead, ha ha! I think he had a great day!

Blowing all of his candles out!

Yummy cake!

Reading his own birthday card!

YEAH!!!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY ELI! WE LOVE YOU!

MY LITTLE SLEEPY HEAD & HER TEDDY!

2009-11-30T13:23:00.001-08:00

Kaylynn has taken a loving to one of my old teddy bears. I asked her why she liked this "teddy" so much and she told me that it was because it was mine and I liked it when I was younger. She has to sleep with it every night and usually I find her like this, cradling it in her arms.

HAPPY HALLOWEEN!!!

2009-10-31T21:15:00.000-07:00

Happy Halloween everyone! We had the best time this year. The kids had a great time carving pumpkins and then trick-or-treating down Harrison Blvd. Eli dressed up as the Incredible Hulk, but the costume wasn't the muscly one so we stuffed some socks in his arms. Kaylynn was a Southern Bell and everyone thought she was so cute. And Liam was a frog. Eli was the same frog when he was this age. Liam loved holding his pumpkin bucket and wouldn't let go of it. We managed to collect tons of candy and 1 toothbrush to keep away the cavities!
Diggin' out the seeds!

"How many seeds do we have to take out?"

Liam was preoccupied with the sippy cups in the drawer. He loves to get into things!

Mommy drawing the faces!

Mommy carving the faces with a jig saw. My arm was tired afterwards!

The results. Kaylynn named her pumpkin on the right "Smudge"

SPOOOOOOKY!!!

Our 3 pumpkins!

Eli showing off his amazing muscles!

Kaylynn looking pretty!

This is Liam dressed in a dragon costume. We decided to go with the frog outfit instead, but I thought these pictures were cute!

"Can you see me under all of these teeth?"

Mommy and Froggy!

"We want candy!!!"

"Trick-or-Treat!!"

"Good thing I have these muscles to carry all of this candy!"

Liam learning trick-or-treating tricks!

"Now what?"

"We love Halloween!"

ELI STARTS BASKETBALL!!!

2009-10-31T20:57:00.001-07:00

Eli had his first basketball game today and did great. There are only 3 boys on his team though and so we had to borrow a player from the other team to play the game. Hopefully, we will get some other players so that we can learn the rules of the game a little better! Here are some "shots" from the game!

"Should I shoot it?"

"He shoots!"

"He scores!!!"

Liam is not very entertained stuck in his stroller.

Liam and Grandpa!

ATTACK OF THE PUDDING MONSTER!!!

2009-10-31T20:49:00.000-07:00

Liam is learning how to eat with a spoon and use a bowl. So today I thought I'd give him some chocolate pudding and see what he would do. This was the result!!!

GROWING WILLIAM!

2009-10-28T21:22:00.001-07:00

Liam is growing up so fast! He does and says new things every day! He loves to act like a big boy and strut his stuff. His favorite thing to play with is the vacuum and he has figured out how to open the closet and spread all of the vacuum parts all over the house. His favorite place to be is in this window seat where he can look outside. Turn on the music and he will rock out! Liam is my little jokester and loves to be a real ham!

DADDY'S BIRTHDAY!

2009-10-28T20:49:00.000-07:00

HAPPY 33 BIRTHDAY DADDY!

Daniel had a good birthday this year with a surprise trip to McCall. It was so nice to get away just the two of us and spend some time together. We had a great time and played a little golf. I think the golf cart was the best part! We love you Daddy!!!

Eli ready to give dad his cake (yellow with chocolate frosting)!

"I want to be just like my dad!"

"Do I have something in my teeth?"

Daniel waiting for the heat to kick on in the condo...Brrrr!

AHHHH...much better!

"4!"

"Where will the ball go this time?"

Beautiful Payette Lake and the Tamaracks!

Me and my Peets!

JUST MONKEY'N AROUND!

2009-10-28T20:06:00.000-07:00

I took the kids to open gym to play around and they had so much fun. Kaylynn has a class every week and was excited to show Eli what she could do! Liam had a blast running around and going in the pit! His favorite though was the trampoline of coarse! Enjoy the pictures and videos below!

Flipping Eli!

Bouncing Liam!

Swinging Kaylynn!

Liam loves to jump around!

Do you think Kaylynn is having fun?

It's attack of the foam monsters!

"Peek-a-boo, I see you!"

Eli is not too sure about being on the beam!

KAYLYNN STARTS PRESCHOOL!

2009-09-27T13:14:00.000-07:00

Kaylynn started her second year of preschool! She couldn't wait for it to start and when the day fianlly came, she said good-bye to me and went right into the classroom! Kaylynn loves to learn and her teacher says that she is the "ideal student"! We love you Kaylynn and hope you learn lots this year!

Kaylynn and Mya ready for school!

MOM IS 31!

2009-09-27T13:01:00.000-07:00

I am once again another year older. I had a great day with the kids and then Daniel took me out to dinner and a movie. We went to the Cheese Cake Factory to eat and it was so yummy. Then we went to the Sun Glass Hut for my birthday present. I got a long needed new pair of sunglasses with polarized lenses! They are so awesome. Then we went to see Julie and Julia at the movies! I wish it were my birthday every day!

Daniel made me a cake!

Liam thinks our singing "Happy Birthday" is funny!

LIAM VS. A BAG OF FLOUR!

2009-09-27T12:47:00.001-07:00

While I quickly took a shower one morning, Liam was up to no good in the kitchen. He found an unopened bag of flour in the cupboard and decided to bully it up! As you can see from the pictures, I think the flour won the battle and Liam unfortunately had to go directly to the shower! Hopefully, he learned his lesson and so did mom...keep the flour up where Liam can't find it!!!

"Did I do something wrong?"

ELI THE BIG 1ST GRADER!

2009-09-27T12:34:00.001-07:00

We cannot believe that our little Eli is starting 1st grade!!! He was so excited to go, we did a count down to the first day. He couldn't wait to bring his lunch and eat at school. When the first day finally came, Daniel and I walked him into the classroom to find his desk and then off he went to the play ground without any hesitation! We are so proud of you Eli and we hope you have a great year!

"Will you please leave already Mom and Dad?!"

THE WESTERN IDAHO FAIR!

2009-09-27T11:55:00.000-07:00

Every year the fair comes to Boise and every year we say we are not going to go, but with it being right down the street from us, and with the kids seeing it every time we drive by, we always give in and go!!! Eli and Kaylynn had a blast going on all the rides they were tall enough for. Liam was totally into all the animals and wasn't afraid to pet any of them. They all milked the cow and proudly wore their "I milked a cow" sticker. All in all, we had a good time and didn't get home until 11pm. Daniel and I said we won't go next year, but maybe we will!!!

Eli and Kaylynn ridin' the rides!

Eli the biker dude!

MOOOO!!!

Eli, Kaylynn

and Liam

CHOO CHOO LOU LOU!

Liam enjoying the roller coaster stroller!

A GIRLS DAY OUT!

2009-08-30T20:06:00.000-07:00

Kaylynn needed her hair cut really bad because I was tired of it looking so ratty all of the time! I decided to make a date out of it and take her to Monkeydoos and to lunch! Monkeydoos is a real salon for kids where they pamper them and put glitter in the hair. I thought since she has never really had a real haircut, I would spoil her a little! It turns out that Kaylynn's hair is eventually going to go all curly so we trimmed up the straight part and embraced the curl underneath. It turned out so cute. She got some purple glitter to add to her cute new do and then we went to the Olive Garden for lunch. Kaylynn of course got chicken fingers and I of course got the cheese ravioli. We had a great time just us girls!

Kaylynn getting pampered!

Ready for her haircut!

"I love bread sticks!"

1 NIGHT OF CAMPING!

2009-08-30T19:33:00.001-07:00

Every year, we do our 1 night of camping and that is enough for me! We had a great time staying at a campground with a hot springs pool and actual grass where we pitched out tent! We went swimming and roasted marshmallows and didn't even freeze during the night. In the morning, Liam went right over to the the door of the tent, unzipped it, climbed out, and peeked back in to make sure we were watching him (see pictures below). It was the most hilarious thing! The kids had so much fun! We can't wait until next year!

Hot dogs and Subway for dinner (Eli & I are not hot dog fans)!

Kaylynn loves hot dogs!

Liam is concentrating on using his fork!

Liam climbed up onto the table looking for more food!

Swimming in the nice warm pool...just the way I like it!

Roasting marshmallows by the fire! Those little headlamps the kids have on were the best $5 investment!

Eli staying warm!

Eli slept good!

So did Kaylynn!

Mommy and Daddy are getting old so we slept on air mattresses!

Liam crawling out of the tent after unzipping a little hole for himself to fit through!

"Hey, are you watching me?"

LIAM IS FINALLY WALKING!!!

2009-08-30T15:37:00.000-07:00

Well, it took him forever to get up the courage to do it on his own, but Liam is finally walking!!! He has been pushing around strollers, walkers and anything else he can find that slides across the floor for the longest time. Eli liked to help him practice by standing him up a couple of feet away from his bed and have him walk toward it. Then, it finally clicked in Liam's little head that he could do it without any help. Eli stood him up and he walked right past his bed and into the living room. It was about time!!! I took a video of him right after that, but I didn't realize that you had to have the camera right side up, so sorry it's sideways! The next day we went to the park to try out wearing shows and climbing up the playground. Well done Liam!

Liam's first steps!

"I think I'm stuck!"

"Is this how the big kids play?"

FUN IN NATURE!

2009-08-30T15:08:00.000-07:00

We decided to take a walk on the green belt to see the river and the pretty vegetation. We had a great time and saw lots of pretty flowers. On the way back, Daniel and Eli saw some wild minks on the side of the river and got down on some rocks to get a better look. I also went down there and got a few pictures of them. In the mean time, Eli must have disturbed a wasp nest and he started getting attacked! Daniel and I ran up the little hill and we got attacked also! We ran like mad out of there and luckily Kaylynn and Liam didn't get bit. I didn't realize how painful those little buggers can be! Eli was bit 3 times, Daniel twice, and I had 2 on my knee. We made our way back to our car and quickly put some baking soda on our wounds when we got home. Within minutes, Eli and Daniel felt better, but mine throbbed all night and by the next morning, was swollen and feverish. The redness and swelling then started moving down my leg so I ended up at the doctor for some antibiotics and a heavy duty dose of antihistamine. The funny thing about this whole fiasco is that I am usually the one to get rid of the wasp nests around, and I turn out to be the one that is allergic to them!!! Go figure!!!

Liam striking a pose on a tree.

On the trail

Sword fighting with sticks!

Kaylynnylou!

A mink playing peek-a-boo!

Some pictures of the pretty flowers!

This snap dragon is actually in our front yard!

A RILEY FAMILY REUNION!

2009-07-26T19:48:00.001-07:00

This week end all of the Riley kids got together and had some good family fun! It was great to see everyone together and to see how all of the cousins have grown! We even took some family pictures and had a crazy pool party! There are now 14 cousins and you can imagine the chaos there was trying to get one good picture of all of us! I think the one above came out pretty good considering! Many thanks to Nana for our beautiful family!

Myriam, Kaylynn, and Paige (cutie patooties) walking Layla the dog in the park!

Water wars!

Wade doing the double whammy!

Daniel, Brent, and Darren, showing off their skills! Who do you think should have won the competition?

ELI TAKES THE BIG PLUNGE!

2009-07-26T19:43:00.001-07:00

Eli is fearless in the water now! For the first time, he jumped off of the diving board at the YMCA. He didn't even hesitate! Way to go Eli!

ONE CRAZY TRIP TO GRAMMY'S!!!

2009-07-22T21:28:00.000-07:00

The plan was to go visit Grammy and Grampy in Spokane, take the kids to Silverwood in Coeur D' lene, and then visit Daniel's Dad in Coulee Damn...well, it didn't really end up that way! The story is kind of long, but there are some cute pictures that follow. I'll start at the beginning. We left on Friday evening to make the 7+ hour car ride to Spokane and got there at midnight (1am our time)! Saturday morning, we got up all excited to be there and went right into Grampy's lap pool and had a great time...although hindsight, Liam probably shouldn't have gone into the warm water for so long! Then I put Liam down for his nap and when he woke up, he felt really hot! We got some Tylenol in him and he seemed to be fine. I thought he just had a fever from his molars coming in. We had fun that night at Wonderland playing miniature golf and riding the go-carts. Sunday, Liam still felt really hot and started having Diarrhea. We got him some Motrin and a thermometer to see how hot he really was (103.2 at one point). At this point, I thought he might be coming down with an ear infection and decided to wait one more day to see if he would get any better. We had a nice relaxing day hanging out in the back yard listening to music and playing ball! That night Liam threw up so we decided to take him to the doctors first thing in the morning. The next morning (Monday) Liam was still hot and it was pouring down rain. We were suppose to go to Silverwood that day also, but decided to figure out what was wrong with Liam before we made any definite plans. We took Liam first thing in the morning to an Urgent Care and thought he would just get him some anti-biotics for an ear infection and we'd be right back. Daniel and I didn't even eat breakfast! When we got there, Liam was so lethargic, he kept falling back asleep. He also threw up while we were there and it turned out to be positive for blood. The Doctor told us he didn't have an ear infection, but that he needed to go to the ER right away. So...we took him to Sacred Heart Children's Hospital and that doctor determined that he needed fluids and some blood work done. The poor little guy, it took them 4 tries to get the IV in. When the blood work came back, the doctor said he was definitely dehydrated, anemic and had low blood sugar. He said that he would have to stay in the hospital over night to get enough fluids in his system. GREAT! It was 1:30pm by now and in the process of getting Liam admitted, Daniel and I realized we hadn't eaten. The kind nurse got us these dry turkey sandwiches and off we went up stairs. Silverwood was now out today and going to Papap's house looked like it was out too! Thankfully, Papap came into Spokane and took Daniel, Eli and Kaylynn out to dinner! But in the meantime, I was stuck in a little stuffy hospital room with my poor little Liam, No cell phone and no wallet. I was trapped! I was so hungry, I started getting a migraine. My mom finally showed up with my dinner at 8:45pm! The next morning (Tuesday), Liam still had a fever and now wasn't eating. The doctor said he would have to stay another night until he was eating on his own again. I was determined for the other kids to still have a fun time on our trip so Daniel ended up taking them with my dad to Silverwood while I stayed with Liam. I was pretty bummed! On Wednesday morning, Liam's fever finally broke and he started eating again (Yeah)! He got released late that morning and I finally got a shower after 3 days! The ride home was pretty uneventful with Liam sleeping most of the way (his poor little body still needed to recover). We were exhausted when we got home and it took a few days to regain our energy! What a memorable trip! I did manage to take a ton of pictures so enjoy!

Fun in the Lap pool!

Eli, Grandpa and Kaylynn!

"How many puffers can I fit in my mouth?"

Par 3!

Disneyland or Wonderland?

Eli and Daddy won the race!

"Is this my bed?"

Fun in the grass!

Like mommy, like daddy!

"Has anyone seen Little Bit?"

Hit it!

"Cool music Grandpa!"

Poor little Liam in his cage!

"Get me out of here!"

Crazy boy!

Fun at Silverwood!

"Up we go!"

Finally some sunshine for Liam!

Liam feeding cheese to Little Bit!

Eli and Grampy on the tractor!

Kaylynn's first ride with Grampy!

Peek-a-boo!

My 3 tired babies!!!

What a trip!!!

CELEBRATING THE 4TH IN BLACKFOOT IDAHO!

2009-07-22T20:44:00.000-07:00

We celebrated our 4th of July in Blackfoot with some of our family. Daniel's brother Darren was blessing his new little boy Bodi and we couldn't miss that. I almost didn't make it though, because the day we were to leave, I ended up with food poisoning. I couldn't miss the 4th with my family though so I grinned a bared it on the long car ride over. The next day, I felt much better. We had fun horse back riding with the kids and watched some uneventful fireworks! It was nice to get away for the week end!

The kids getting the horse ready to ride!

Kaylynn and cousin Myriam looking cute.

Eli finally braving it solo!

Kaylynn and I trottin' around! Note to self...always wear pants when riding. I had 2 huge bruises on my calves from the saddle pinching me! OUCH!!!

4th of July BBQ!

Just puttin' around. Kaylynn couldn't figure our if she was left handed or right.

Big Tonka boy!

Our exciting fireworks display!

Darren, Daniel and Wade. How many men does it take to light 1 sparkler?

GRANDMA'S POOL!

2009-07-01T21:11:00.001-07:00

Thank goodness for Grandma's pool! When the sun is scorching down, it is a great way to beat the heat! Nana even comes over to enjoy the refreshing water! Eli (the fish) likes to swim down to the bottom of the deep end to get a water rocket! Kaylynn is getting more confident in her swimming skills and Liam thinks it's cool to stick his face in the water!

All my boys!

Daniel doing a suicide! Look at that form!

Eli wants to be like his dad!

Kaylynn in her "doughnut"!

Just relaxing!

Liam surfing with Nana!

"I love my Grandma!"

JUST THE GIRLS!

2009-07-01T20:04:00.000-07:00

Our friend Elizabeth, who use to live here, came up for a visit this past weekend. So we decided to make it a 2 day affair and have tons of fun! We stayed up late catching up, pigging out on junk food and "Dad's Salsa" (it's so good, you will crave it after the first bite), and watched a movie. The next morning, we went out to a yummy breakfast down town and walked around the Farmer's Market. I took the coolest pictures of food and below are just a few! That night we played card games and just hung out! We all had so much fun!!!

That big bowl of salsa was almost gone by the end of the night!

Waiting to eat!

(Ruth, Amy, me, Kyra, Elizabeth, and Sarah)

Carrots - I love the little roots!

Tomatoes

Asparagus - I love this shot!

FUN WITH WATER BALLOONS!

2009-07-01T19:41:00.000-07:00

It was 96 degrees outside so Eli and Kaylynn decided they wanted to have a water balloon fight! Kaylynn was a little hesitant at first, but she ended up being the one to run away from!

Eli is ready to go!

Kaylynn is not too sure!

Hit the target!

"Do you think looking cute will keep me from getting wet?"

Anticipating getting soaked!

MY CRAZY GIRL!

2009-06-30T21:44:00.000-07:00

Kaylynn is one crazy girl with an interesting sense of style and crazy hair! Or maybe I'm the one with no style! Every morning she comes out with the weirdest non-matching outfits and her hair looks like the definition of "bed head!" I have to wet it down and comb it at least 3 times a day!

"I am ready to go to the beach Mommy!"

"NO I did not stick my finger in a light socket!"

MY BIG FISH!

2009-06-30T21:20:00.000-07:00

Eli LOVES to swim!!! He could spend hours in the water. Recently, he moved up a level in swim lessons and can't wait to start racing. Only one more level to go! Way to go Eli!

Cool goggles!

Only one more lap.

As a reward for moving up a level and to keep his little body warm (he has no body fat), we bought him a new swim suite. We had to by him a size 2 in the shirt in order for it to do its job! Now he looks like a real swimmer!

On a side note, last weekend, there were several yard sales in our neighborhood so Eli decided to have one of his own. There were no takers on his random stuff (including his old tennis shoes), but he had fun! Kaylynn even got into the fun!

MY LITTLE MONKEY BOY!!!

2009-06-30T19:09:00.000-07:00

Liam is my little monkey boy! He is now 13 months old and refuses to walk on his own! But, he will climb up onto everything! I really have to watch him. He climbs under the table, onto the couch and up on the beds. He has no fear!

"Peek-a-boo, I see you!"

Here is a video of Liam climbing onto the couch shortly after he did it for the first time!

"Yeah, I'm the man!"

NEW PICTURES OF THE KIDS!

2009-06-13T12:42:00.000-07:00

These are the latest professional pictures of the kids. I have them taken every year for their birthday, and since Kaylynn and Liam just had theirs, it was their turn. They turned out so cute! They are growing up so fast!

The Three Amigos!!!

Eli-6 1/2, Kaylynn-4, and Liam-1

Liam thinks Eli and Kaylynn are drums!

Ah kisses!

This is totally Kaylynn the 4 year old! What a little personality!

There were just so many cute shots to choose from!

Her flip flops have "diamonds" on them.

My pretty flower!

I love this one!

My Kaylynnylou!

Liam is my handsome boy!

Too cute!

My little one year old!

10 YEARS AND COUNTING!

2009-06-08T21:20:00.000-07:00

Can you believe we've been married 10 years! The time has really flown by. It seems like just yesterday that Daniel and I were newlyweds and just starting our lives together. And now, 10 wonderful years and 3 kids later, here we are! We have thoroughly enjoyed the journey and look forward to 10 more years and beyond through eternity!

Daniel totally surprised me for our anniversary! First, he took me to Catherine Albertson's Park, where here first told me he loved me and then proposed. We walked to our spot and pulled out this ring! I was so surprised and impressed. Then, he took me to the Melting Pot for a wonderful dinner. I wish I could go back every night! And last, we stayed at the Anniversary Inn in Sleeping Beauty's Castle. It was such a wonderful evening and a nice break away from the kids!

WE ARE READY FOR SUMMER!

2009-06-08T20:54:00.000-07:00

We are so ready for summer to begin! After Eli's last day of school, we went with some of his friends to the park to celebrate. We had a lot of fun and even got to get wet! We have many more park days as well as other fun stuff planned for the summer months. It is going to go by too fast!

Just swingin' around!

Eli and his buddies Ethan and Braden!

Liam having fun!

Kaylynn staying cool!

"I'm the king of the rock mountain!"

Keeping an eye out for more fun!

ELI GRADUATES FROM KINDERGARTEN!

2009-06-08T20:31:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to Eli and his graduating kindergarten class of 2009 at Pierce Park Elementary!

Eli is now officially a 1st grader! He had such a successful school year and learned many new things. He loves math and music, and is fascinated with volcanoes. Writing and coloring however, are not his favorite things to do. He takes after his Dad in that department!

We are are so Proud of you Eli!

Pose for the cameras!

Standing so proud!

Nice singing!

We're out of here!

Kaylynn can't wait to be in kindergarten!

Liam wants to graduate too!

Eli and his wonderful teacher Ms. Sarah.

FIELD DAY AT ELI'S SCHOOL!

2009-06-08T19:55:00.000-07:00

Eli's school had a field day where the whole school played a bunch of fun games outside. Kaylynn even got to join in the action.

"Who can I peg this time?"

"Tag, you're out!"

Fun with a parachute!

Potato sac race!

Almost to the finish line Kaylynn!

Poor Liam had to hang out in the stroller in the muggy heat!

Kaylynn just bouncin' around!

Eli showing off his agility!

Pull a little harder!

Heave-ho!

Foot volleyball!

PICTURES AT THE TEMPLE!

2009-06-07T18:28:00.000-07:00

We took the kids up to the temple to let them walk around and take some pictures since it was such a nice day. Eli and Kaylynn were full of questions and can't wait until their 12.

Eli, Kaylynn, and Liam smiling for the camera!

Kaylynn catching some shade.

Eli ready to jump in the fountain.

Liam looking at the beautiful flowers.

Daddy and Liam admiring the temple.

WE GOT A NEW CAMERA!

2009-06-07T17:49:00.000-07:00

Finally, a new camera that we can actually take with us anywhere! Here are a few random pictures taken recently.

"Strike a pose!"

Kaylynnylou!

Liam sleeping like a frog.

Kaylynn at the bowling alley looking like a little Punky Brewster.

ELI'S LAST T-BALL GAME!

2009-06-03T14:57:00.000-07:00

Eli had a great season of t-ball. He learned a lot and can really hit the ball now! Way to go Eli!

Home Run!

Nice throw!

"How many pictures are you going to take of me dad?"

A NIGHT FOR CELEBRATING!

2009-05-27T18:36:00.000-07:00

We have had a lot to celebrate in the of May (Kaylynn's B-day, Liam's B-day, and finishing school for the summer). We decided to go to Old Chicago to have some yummy calzones. Grandma and Grandpa came along for the fun!

"Where's the food?"

"Is this really going to be hot?"

Fun with Grandma and straws.

"ooh, so moist!"

KAYLYNN FINISHES HER FIRST YEAR OF PRESCHOOL

2009-05-27T18:24:00.000-07:00

Kaylynn finished her first year of preschool with flying colors! Her teacher, Miss Laura says she is an "ideal student."

Kaylynn and Mya saying their parts.

96 DEGREES AND A WATER HOSE!

2009-05-27T17:56:00.000-07:00

It's the beginning of May and it was 96 degrees on this day. The kids wanted to play with the hose so I thought I would make it fun for them in the back yard. I filled up the snow sleds with about 3 inches of water and cut a couple of strips of plastic ground barrier to make a fun slip-n-slide. It is amazing what a little water can do. I thought Liam would just kind of sit back and watch Eli and Kaylynn, but he went straight for the sled and climbed right in. Then he went over to the hose that I had on mist for the slip-n-slide and stuck his face in it! By the end of our water fun, Liam's diaper had exploded!

Lounging Liam!

Eli sun bathing!

Kaylynn striking a pose!

Misty fun!

WILLIAM IS 1!

2009-05-27T17:12:00.000-07:00

Now it's Liam's turn. I can't believe he is already a year old! I made him a shirt too, only with 1 candle on a cupcake. He had a great time with his cake. He totally demolished it! He ended up blue from head to toe as you shall see below!

Opening his presents.

Happy Birthday to you!

"Oh, this is fun!"

"Oops, I missed a spot!"

"I can't see my hands anymore!"

What a mess!

All that cake made him all tired out!

KAYLYNN IS 4!!!!

2009-05-27T16:55:00.000-07:00

Our little Kaylynn is growing up so fast. She had a Hello Kitty party for her birthday and had to invite all of her cousins and a couple of friends. I made the shirt she is wearing. It is a cupcake with 4 candles on it. Aren't I crafty? When she opened her last gift (a little Maltese stuffed dog) she said "wow this is just what I wanted from Wal Mart!"

Opening presents.

Hitting the High School Musical Pinata.

We love you Kaylynn!!!!

PUNKED OUT LIAM!:April 2009

2009-05-27T15:34:00.000-07:00

Liam's hair is getting long again...time for another haircut!

SPRING IS HERE!: April 2009

2009-05-27T15:22:00.000-07:00

Liam is ready to go outside!

Eli and Liam cruisin'.

Liam is ready to ride!

Kaylynn can finally wear shorts! She comes out every morning with summer clothes on and today I could finally tell her she could keep them on!

ELI STARTED T-BALL!: April 2009

2009-05-27T15:07:00.000-07:00

Eli started T-ball and he loves it. He loves to hit the ball and really pays attention to what is going on in the game. He is on the LA Dodgers.

Playing pitcher.

Hitting a single.

I'm your #1 Dodger fan!

LIAM'S CUBBY: April 2009

2009-05-27T15:00:00.000-07:00

Liam has a fascination with the fireplace. He thinks it's fun to climb in there and hang out!

EASTER FUN 2009!

2009-05-27T13:49:00.001-07:00

We had so much fun over the Easter holiday. We started on Saturday with an egg hunt with a bunch of friends at the park. Then we colored some eggs for the Easter Bunny, which turned all of our hands blue. The Easter Bunny made a visit to our house and left some treats on Sunday morning. We ended up at Nana's house with all of the cousins for yet another egg hunt! We had candy coming out of ears!!!

My little peep!

This was some messy stuff!

Kaylynn showing Liam how to look for the goods!

Some traditional family pictures before church!

More candy at nana's!

A NIGHT FOR BOWLING!" April 2009

2009-05-27T13:14:00.000-07:00

For family home evening one night we took the kids and some friends bowling. We had such a good time. Kaylynn loved rolling the ball down the ramp.

"Which ball is mine?"

The concentration is intense!

Will it be a strike?

I may not be so lucky! :)

No gutter ball this time Eli.

Go Kaylynn!!!

AH..THE TOILET PAPER: April 2009

2009-05-26T21:56:00.000-07:00

I think every kid discovers the toilet paper eventually. This was Liam's day!

TAX DAY!: April 2009

2009-05-26T21:51:00.000-07:00

Have you done your taxes yet?

This shirt belonged to Liam's uncle Quinn.

LEARNING AND GROWING: Febuary and March 2009

2009-05-26T21:29:00.002-07:00

"the 3 stooges"

Liam learning to crawl

Liam Clapping

Daddy's little Wiggy Wogs!

LIAM GETS A HAIRCUT: January 2009

2009-05-26T21:29:00.001-07:00

For the longest time, Liam had this hair that would stand straight up! Eventually though, it got too long and was almost in his eyes. So we had to cut it.

The before: he looks a little hesitant

The After: "I'm free!"

THE LAST 6 MONTHS!

2009-05-26T20:40:00.000-07:00

I know it's the end of May already, but I wanted to get caught up on everything that has been going on since January...

This is our Family protrait taken just before Christmas.

(Eli - 6, Kaylynn -3 1/2, William - 6 months)

WELL HELLO THERE AGAIN!

2009-05-25T21:55:00.000-07:00

So I decided that I didn't like my other blog on shutterfly so I thought I'd try the blog spot out instead. Now I just need to figure out what I am doing here! More to come...I've got a lot to catch up on!