Home of King's

Freaky Friday

2012-01-13T14:21:00.002-07:00

I started a special event once a month for Public Skate Nights at Acord Ice Center. January was our first special event. We usually offer public skate nights on Tuesday and Saturday evenings so I had little expectations for another public skate night but it was worth a try. I added our first special event night on Friday the 13th and called it Freaky Friday. $1.50 Admission, $1.50 Skate Rental, $1.50 Hot Dog. I hoped it would be busy and we would sale a good amount of hot dogs...but I didn't think we would be this BUSY!!! Over 300 people and we sold over 120 hot dogs. This photo was taken after 30 minutes of putting away the skates!

It was a successful night and beyond my expectations. I loved watching all the families attend.

Best comment, "I hope you offer this again. This is something my family can afford and it's great to have us all together!" The father purchased 16 admissions, 16 skate rentals and 16 hot dogs and drinks and they stayed all three hours!

Money For Tan Man

2012-01-09T14:16:00.001-07:00

So excited for Tan Man...We just found out he received a grant for film and production that pays for his tuition!!! I am so proud of him for going back to school and never giving up. It's been a tough 4 months dealing with his tumor and withdrawing from his first semester. Spring semester starts tomorrow! Way to Go Tan Man!

Tanner's 19th Birthday

2012-01-03T21:49:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday Tan Man!

I love this young man! He didn't come to this earth very easy and he has never stopped moving since the first time they put him in my arms. I love his creative thinking and adventures! I love watching my children become young adults. Tanner has experienced a year of great growth and acceptance of things we can not control. Last month he moved out of the house. It was time and I am so proud of his grateful attitude and the connection and bond we are developing. He continues to be that old spirit inside a youthful body. We were cleaning up his "stuff" and organizing his old room when I came across his black leather penny loafer shoes. He wore them everyday when he was 5. The shoes, white sox, white tshirt and jeans...nearly EVERYDAY. After he out grew the shoes, I kept one and my Dad kept the other. We now have them both together and I look forward to the day I show them to his children. Tanner keeps us laughing and how I love finding our moments together. Great opportunities are in store for Tanner. He will accomplish great things, he bless others and he will become a great man. I love my Tan Man...I am honored to raise such a wild spirit!

Meanwhile, Jordan continues with her baking and made his birthday cake!

New Years Eve

2011-12-31T19:20:00.000-07:00

Finishing up the holidays with New Year's Eve at GMA's house!

We played Cranium for hours...I loved ending 2011 with these two kids! Tanner was off with his friends. Jordan and Hans spent it with their friends at EVE downtown.

I love this man! I am ready for the new adventures, challenges and laughter as long as I have him by my side!

Chris and Missy ready to celebrate their second anniversary!

Hans and Jordan downtown at EVE.

It's been another successful year with it's challenges and disappointments along with it's pure moments of joy and great accomplishments.

JASON

Jason started a new job and is no longer working from home. He continues to amaze me with his energy. I knew I found an incredible father for my children but I didn't realize until this past year how I found an amazing companion to spend the rest of my life with. We have made many adjustments this past year and oh how I enjoy my new found time with Jason! Growing old with him is going to be fantastic!

TIFFANY

I received a promotion working as a coordinator for Salt Lake County. I manage an ice rink and swimming pool (more like an amusement park)! It's been a whirlwind of meetings, planning, organizing and learning. I love every minute and there has many millions of minutes spend in my new position! I continue to serve with the Young Women and love my time with the youth!

TAYLOR AND JASMINE

Taylor is becoming an amazing young man. He has turned his life around and become my hero. He has fallen to the very bottom and figured out how to make a better life. I love our conversations and I see so much of his dad in him. He and Jasmine are a beautiful couple and I anticipate great events in their future! Jasmine works at Starbucks and started college. Taylor continues to work full time at Ortho Development.

TANNER

Tanner's year was not fair. He set goals and was constantly challenged with accomplishing them. He was discharged from the Army and later withdrew from college due to the ACL and tumor surgeries. Jason and I recognize the blessings and the prayers our family has received on behalf of Tanner's surgeries but it's been difficult for any 18 year old to understand. Last month, he took the big step and moved out. He has registered for the spring semester at the junior college and I anticipate the upcoming year will be much better!

JORDAN

Jordan had a challenging year with her skating injuries and learned lessons on patience and perseverance. Despite the limited training, she qualified to Sectionals and finished 8th. For the first time in 9 years, she is taking a two month break and healing her back. She has enjoyed her time off! She is busy with her boyfriend and plans to get her license in a few weeks. She is becoming a beautiful young lady.

Three goals I want to accomplish in 2012...

Read the Book of Mormon (again).

Spend more time blogging detailing my thoughts and experiences.

Print my blog into books.

Of course I have many other goals but these three will keep me going month by month as we face the adventures, blessing and challenges in our home!

The Snuggy Gift

2011-12-25T21:39:00.000-07:00

Mom gave each family member a snuggy! It's the inside joke about how cold mom's house is...so now she gave us each a snuggy!

Santa's Gift

2011-12-25T21:37:00.000-07:00

Santa left four little boxes...each box had 4-5 pieces to a puzzle!

Yeap...it's time for a trip to Disneyland! We are planning to leave in May. Last time we took the family was over 10 years ago!

Christmas Morning

2011-12-25T21:36:00.000-07:00

We woke up and QUICKLY packed our car with the gifts and headed to GMA's house! The kids stockings were waiting...along with Max and Tegan's stockings too!

Santa left each child a special small box...

Christmas Eve Night

2011-12-24T21:31:00.000-07:00

All my kids, including Mini Horse Dog stayed the night. They opened their one present of pajama's and we all cuddled in the livingroom to watch "Four Christmas's". This was after I made them watch a special message about the Savior and the true meaning of Christmas. It was a wonderful time to just relax and talk with each of them. I love them so much...

They may not make the choices I would prefer but they are really turning out to be incredible young adults. I love this phase of life...I love being their mother!

Christmas Eve

2011-12-24T21:26:00.000-07:00

Christmas Eve dinner was at our house. Another great evening spent with family and loved ones!

I loved being surprised by Nate!

This is our second year in a row spending Christmas in Utah. It was wonderful to spend it with mom and her brothers!!!

Remember Cordero???

2011-12-15T19:46:00.001-07:00

Cordero is all grown up! We had our farewell dinner serving his favorite meal...tostado's! Cordero is spending a month in Alaska (his home) and an intership in KOREA!!! We won't see him until June 2012. We will miss him so much!!!

Family Fun Nights - Zoo Lights

2011-12-14T19:42:00.000-07:00

ZOO LIGHTS!

Another fun evening with the trippy glasses and spending with family! I seached the web for the glasses and watch out next year I am getting the variety pack that includes reindeer, santa, elfs and candy canes! I am also selling them at work for our public skate nights...

Family Fun Night - Temple Square

2011-12-11T19:26:00.000-07:00

We were planning to ice skate but it was closing! So we adventured out with our trippy glasses and walked to Temple Square. We were missing Tanner who was busy with his new roommates.

I love growing old with this man!!!

They couldn't be any cuter! I love spending time with Jasmine and Taylor.

Another cute couple! Hans and Jordan spending their first Christmas season together.

Jasmine brought her sister, Diana who is expecting a baby next year!!! The glasses create snowmen or snowflakes with each light bulb. They are fun to wear!

Jason and Taylor

My sweet Taylor!

Hans and Jordan

2011-12-10T19:17:00.000-07:00

Winter Formal

Jordan dragged Hans back to high school to escort her to Winter Formal at East High. Hans graduated in June from East.

Hans and Jordan have dated off and on for the past year. However, lately its been more on than off. After the summer of drama, it's wonderful to find them figuring this whole relationship out.

September 2010 Homcoming

May 2011 Han's Senior Prom

Mo Graduates from Weber!

2011-12-09T18:54:00.001-07:00

Today was a very special day for me! I am so proud of Mo! It amazes me how a few great choices lead to many incredible opportunities. I remember the first time I met Mo at work. He was shy but looked mean. It was his second year at University of Utah. He hit a rough time and so much was uncertain.

I remember looking straight into his eyes. I saw someone great! Fortunately, others did to and playing football at Weber became a new opportunity.

Our family opened our hearts and soon Mo became part of our family. He has accomplished so much the past two years. He has grown into an amazing young man!

And now he moved out and took Tan Man with him!!! I got a two for one deal! Mo decided to move to Salt Lake City. His brothers from Oakland moved here too and all four of them now live together! They call Tanner "White Boy on the Couch!"

Smurf Night

2011-12-04T19:11:00.000-07:00

Family Smurf Night at GMA's.

Family Fun Nights continued with Smurf Night. We of course watched it on BLUE ray and ate blue smashed potatoes, blue jello and meat!

We then watched Smurf's! Did I mention how much I LOVE having my mom in Utah!

Family Time at Zions

2011-12-03T19:49:00.000-07:00

Jordan is taking some time off the ice to FINALLY heal her lower back. After 9 years of skating, it's been strange to take this long period off. She is learning so much and taking the time necessary to heal her back...(thanks to Linda!) She is working on new goals...

Meanwhile, Hans took her away with his family to meet his other cousins, Aunts and Grandma. The family had a Christmas gathering near Zion's National Park. She had a fantastic time meeting his family and playing games with his cousins.

Thanksgiving at GMA's!!!

2011-11-25T18:36:00.001-07:00

Mom made a fabulous dinner! We LOVE having her in Utah!

It's always wonderful to have Linda and Mike join us! Linda is our massage therapists who is a very dear friend to our family.

Pacific Coast Sectionals

2011-11-18T18:24:00.001-07:00

Jordan advanced to the Pacific Coast Sectional Champsionhips! She finished 8th overall!

Jasmine and Taylor came to watch her compete her long program.

My mom once again was the hospitality chair. Uncle Jeff and his girlfriend Rafael came too!

New friends from Marriott! Nancy is the director of sales and her daughter now attends East. Jordan and Brielle have so much in common and becoming fast friends!

Wouldn't be the same without Leslie and Will! We use to all work together. Now Will and I tackle the Acord Ice Rink and Centennial Pool!

Preparing for Sectionals

2011-11-14T18:32:00.000-07:00

It's been a year of injuries for Jordan! She was determined to finish it out and she did so with great performances at Regionals and placing 3rd. Now she is preparing for Sectionals...Camille and Jordan have skated together for almost 9 years!

"Blessed"

2011-11-13T22:50:00.000-07:00

It's interesting how it only takes a few short seconds for your life to change. This photo was taken before the game started. I like how it shows his tatoo that states, "Blessed". Jordan, Tanner and Mo' brother Anthony couldn't take the weather. They decided to wait in the car. They heard over the radio Mo was injured and laying on the field. I recall hearing Jason's voice shout his name...but not in a cheering way. I just stared at his feet and then I prayed. Please God, let him move his feet. After 10 minutes and still no movement, I knew something was wrong.

No words can describe our feelings...it was very quiet in the stadium.

I charged the field with Mo's mother Ginger. At first I hesitated by the sidelines. How embarrassing if Mo was ready to walk off the field and there were his mommies...I got the attention of another player and he motioned us to go to the huddle of doctors. We were able to say a few words before they took him to the hospital.

It felt like time stood still. We quickly gathered the family and met Mo at the hospital. It was a very LONG night. We were told that he is ok and after 6 hours we come home thinking he was soon to be released and we had plans for all of us to eat out. Mo was even talking about his last away game. Once I walked in the house, we received the call that Mo's injuries were more complicated and he is staying over night. I immediately rushed back to Ogden and experienced a very tough night when the doctors shared with us he could no longer play football. No words can describe the heavy heart I felt for Mo. It was a scary time for everyone as we heard how close Mo was from being paralyzed. He may need surgery to relieve the pressure against his spinal cord. After a very tearful night, Mo collected himself and exemplified courage and a deeper level of strength as he had to regroup and figure out what is the next chapter in his life.

The next morning he was recharged and felt blessed for how different this morning could have been.

Coach Mac stopped by both days to talk with Mo. He is a great man and I am sure will never forget Mo as it was his last home football game. Coach Mac retired and Mo is graduating...

Mo's Last Senior Home Game

2011-11-12T22:36:00.002-07:00

The weather was MISERABLE but nothing was going to stop us attending Mo's last home game.

It was also our first real snowstorm of the year...which I love! It was also Jason's 45th birthday!!!

Welcome to Utah! Mo's family drove to Utah to attend the game. They were not quite ready for this weather.

I met Mo when he played his Sophmore year at University of Utah. I can't believe three years have gone by and now I am watching his last college home game.

It was a very bad day...that lead to a very bad injury.

Missing My Dad

2011-11-08T22:48:00.000-07:00

It's been four years...still miss him every day.

Happy Halloween!

2011-10-31T17:44:00.001-06:00

Jason had a great time scaring the kids for Halloween in our neighborhood. It was one of the warmest Halloween Nights I can remember in Utah!

Mini Horse Dog joined us for sage popcorn (Jasmine made it) and artichokes.

The boys set up the projector and we watched "Scooby Do" out front as we waited for Trick or Treaters!

Always fun to have Mo join us too!

First time ever, spending Halloween Night outside in Utah! Loved it!

Carving Pumpkins

2011-10-25T17:41:00.000-06:00

Time to carve pumpkins!

Jordan Finishes 3rd Place!!!

2011-10-23T20:12:00.001-06:00

Jordan skated very well and finished in third place! She will now compete at Pacific Coast Sectionals held in Salt Lake City...this is the event I am in charge of! This is Jordan a little bit jealous of Isla!

Cubby and Meagan's family came to watch Jordan skate!

It was great to have Barbara and Jack join us too!

The best surprise was Christi, Mario and their darling boys coming to watch! I just love this lady. She was one of my youth when we lived in Petaluma. She was the most incredible babysitter and spent many hours with our children. She experienced numerous fractures with Taylor, was always three steps ahead of Tanner and always made Jordan feel like a little princess!

English and Helen joined us too!

Aunt Sam in Utah!

2011-10-16T17:21:00.002-06:00

Having sisters is AWESOME!

Aunt Sam made a trip to Utah and stayed for a week. We had a fantastic time with Aunt Sam! We danced, ate, talked, ate, visit family, ate and ate some more.

After we left from playing Just Dance, Missy caught Aunt Sam and Mom playing! I love their version of playing this game!!!

One of the many nights we gathered at Mom's House!

Sunday night we had dinner at Stonegrounds. All different types of pizza randomly served to you. It's called Sinner's Sunday. We also had incredible salad. It was actually just lettuce and dressing but we all ate bowl and bowl!!!

Tiff, Missy and Chris at Sinner's Sunday!

Jasmine and Taylor...they ate the most salad!

Cute Chris and Missy

Jason and Tanner

Love this photo of Jasmine and Jordan!

Jordan, GMA and Tiff

Taylor and Jordan tried a game of pool!

I just love Aunt Sam! I hope to visit her in Albuquerque soon!

I Heart Football

2011-10-11T19:13:00.001-06:00

Night game for Weber State. Nate joined us. Nate is Mo's high school buddy who played for Utah State. Football is in full swing! This is Mo with the win...smelly and sticky!

Tanner Check Up

2011-09-29T19:48:00.000-06:00

Tanner has not being feeling well. He had a check up and we found out he now has two infections, one being a staph infection. This poor kid is dealing with his ACL surgery, major tumor surgery and now infections.

Central Pacific Regional Championships - Santa Rosa

2011-09-19T20:03:00.000-06:00

And we are finally off to compete!

Ahhh, what familiar signs!

Jordan is competing at the Snoopy Ice Rink in Santa Rosa, California. It's been a long season of injuries. Just so proud of her not giving up!!!

Welcome Baby Huerta

2011-09-15T19:46:00.001-06:00

Cubby and Meagan are having a BABY BOY! We are all so excited...REALLY excited!

Tanner's Tumor

2011-09-13T19:18:00.000-06:00

We figured out why Tanner was dealing with such horrible bloody noses. We thought he had a sinus infection, so I took him to the doctors. The doctors didn't find a sinus infection and sent us to get a MRI immediately. Within a few hours, we received the phone call that they found a tumor near his optic nerve. A CAT scan was scheduled and it confirmed the tumor was a vascular tumor and rapidly growing. The tumor eroded his sinus cavity and settled near his optic nerve. Surgery was scheduled a week later. The first procedure was an embolization to reduce the amount of bleeding. He stayed overnight and the next morning doctors removed the tumor. He stayed in the Neuro Acute Care Unit for a few days.

It was scary...very scary but he did very well. The tumor was removed. The right side of his face is numb but within a few months should regain feeling back. Unfortunately he lost permanent feeling to the roof of his mouth to remove the tumor. Doctors had to remove part of his bones and replace it back with staples. Now I understand why he tore his ACL...we needed time to find the tumor.

Family Dinner

2011-09-11T19:34:00.001-06:00

We love our family dinner's at GMA's house!

Hans, Jordan and Max

Mom and her awesome office!

Mo's Football Game

2011-09-10T19:13:00.000-06:00

It's time for FOOTBALL! Mo had a great game playing against Utah State. It was a fun trip to Logan and we enjoyed every minute watching our Mo play! We love this great young man. This is his last season of college ball. I am so grateful to have him in our life!

Tanner's Bloody Noses

2011-08-26T23:52:00.000-06:00

We are having a tricky time with his bloody noses! Fortunately for Girls Camp, I learned the best method to stop it is using a tampon. It worked but only for a while...

Family Fun Night - Outdoor Cooking

2011-08-22T23:34:00.000-06:00

My boys! We had a family fun night in the canyons cooking a yummy outdoor dinner!

Oh, I love these two so much!!!

I am very blessed to have Leslie in our lives. She is an amazing young lady and I am honored to be a part of her life!

Chris and Missy joined us and brought KFC!

They are so handsome!

It was a fun night to finish off the summer. Kids are heading off to school!

Mom's New Home

2011-08-20T23:25:00.000-06:00

My new buddy! I love Teagan and he loves me. We have a special bond. I love this little man!

Mom finds the PERFECT house!!! You can just feel it. Great family parties, movie nights, talks, games, and numerous fun times will happen in this house. It's perfect for mom, it's perfect for gatherings, it's perfect for our family!

Incredible kitchen!

She never slows down! New furniture to build...

Jordan's Back on the Ice

2011-07-18T23:20:00.000-06:00

It's been a rough start. Injury after injury but finally after a 5 week from being on the ice..she is back!

GMA moves to UTAH!!!

2011-07-13T23:03:00.000-06:00

My mom is one strong woman, physically, emotionally and spiritually! After Dad died, she took her time to remodel the house and decide her future. She put the house on the market in June and sold it within two days. I am always amazed at what she accomplishes! The hardest part of the trip was saying Good Bye to Cubby. I almost felt guilty taking her back to Utah. We had breakfast together before we left.

I flew out to California to drive her back to Utah. Saying Good Bye to the house was not as emotional as I thought it would be. It was the house I would visit when I was a teenager (my friend lived in it). It was also the house Jason and I lived in for a few years. Taylor had many broken bones in this house and was healing from the femur fracture. And finally it was the house my mom and dad lived in. Many great parties and family gatherings! I loved the memories but it was easy to let go to have Mom move to Utah. We missed her. My kids needs her!

Mom saying Good Bye to the house! She was brave. She didn't have a house ready in Utah and was staying with us and her dogs until she found something. Now, that is BRAVE!!!

Jordan's 16th Birthday

2011-07-06T22:34:00.001-06:00

Jordan turns 16! Sweet Leslie and Jordan

Mike and Jordan

I love these girls!!! Jasmine, Leslie and Jordan

We are so blessed with so many great people who have just made our lives filled with amazing memories and great love. Cordero and Jordan will always be lifelong friends. They have grown up to be wonderful people.

Jason made the amazing cake!

I am very lucky to have someone so special to love my oldest son Taylor. Jasmine is a very special young lady and I love watching them grow together! I can't believe Jasmine was just 16 when she met Taylor...

The Gang!

Hans and Jordan

Tanner's ACL Surgery

2011-06-30T22:20:00.000-06:00

Well, Tanner's plans for entering the Army has changed. In March Tanner tweeked his knee. I ignored it for many reasons and he seemed to be getting better. I took him to the doctors June 17 and we found out he tore his ACL. It was a very difficult day as he started to realize what this all means. The Army discharged him and with in 12 days he was having surgery.

This is how he welcomed me in recovery! Oh Tanner!!!

I was angry with this news. Tanner registered for the Army in January. We were so honored that he chose to serve in the military and prepared for his departure in August. I just didn't understand why this was happening to him.

The MOTORCYCLE!

2011-06-09T22:16:00.001-06:00

Oh Tanner! Just when I had my sweet moment of celebrating his graduation, Tanner gets in a motorcycle accident!

He is fine, the bike is not...oh too bad! We left GMA at home, while Tanner left and crashed the bike at the end of the street. He walked the bike back home and was greeted by GMA. It was a scary moment for both of them. Fortunately, he was wearing a helmet and cycle jacket.

Graduation Dinner - Red Iguana

2011-06-09T22:13:00.000-06:00

Incredible food at Red Iguana!

He had one long day!

My Tan Man - Graduation

2011-06-09T22:09:00.000-06:00

He hasn't been easy but oh do I love this young man. I love his energy, enthusiasm and drive! Once he has his mind set on something, look out! Tanner is a gifted, talented man with a great future ahead. I am proud to be his mother.

Tanner's Graduation!

2011-06-09T22:00:00.001-06:00

What a special day for our family! Tanner is graduating high school.

Missy, Chris, Jason, Tiff, Cubby and Meagan

Mom and her kids...

Meagan, Missy and Tiff

MC=Middle Child...they share a special bond!

Taylor and Tanner after the ceremony.

Hans and Tanner

Sweet photo of Tanner and Cedar

My Tan Man

Tanner and Jordan...I have a similar photo of these two with the same expression when they were little.

Cubby's 30th Birthday

2011-06-08T21:49:00.001-06:00

Cubby and Meagan came to Utah to celebrate his birthday and Tanner's graduation! We had an BBQ at Missy and Chris's house.

Jordan and Uncle Cub!

Jordan made his cake and we celebrated at our house.

Hummm...looks like one of Dad's fire!

Tanner and Meagan!

Uncle Steve, Steven J, Timothy and Mom. It was great to have everyone gather together!

Taylor with Timothy. Timothy wasn't too happy being held by others except for Taylor...

Tiff Starts a New Job!

2011-06-01T21:46:00.000-06:00

I received a great promotion with Salt Lake County! I am a program coordinator and managing a ice rink and outdoor swimming pool in West Valley City. I have a great office and so excited to start this new adventure.

U2 Concert!

2011-05-24T21:29:00.001-06:00

It was worth the wait! After having the concert postponed for one year, Jason finally got his wish!

It was a great surprise to run into Mark Taylor. Mark and I grew up in Novato, California. He was working and controlling the traffic lights!

I just love this guy!!!

It was a fantastic concert!!! Missy and Chris were in the pit a few rows from the stage.

Senior Prom

2011-05-21T21:36:00.001-06:00

Hans is back! Jordan and Hans dated for a few months in 2010 and then went their seperate ways. There friendship sparked again in May and he asked her to his Senior Prom. They had a great time!

Tanner, Jasmine and Hans are seniors at East. It would have been perfect having all my children at Senior Prom but Taylor was out of town and Tanner didn't want to go. So it was their little sister that went to Senior Prom!

Ashley, Sydney and Jordan

Hans dad is a photographer and took beautiful pictures of the kids.

Ice Show

2011-05-14T21:24:00.001-06:00

Another year of the club's Ice Show!

Jordan and Camille

The skaters favorite number is Thriller!

Jordan and Tegan!

Tanner's Underwear

2011-05-08T22:56:00.001-06:00

I had a moment...I only have 12 more weeks with my Tan Man before he joins the Army! This morning, like most mornings, I found Tanner's underwear left in the bathroom. Many would often hear me get after him to pick up his clothes. Sometimes, I would throw his underwear on his bed along with all the other dirty clothes but today, I couldn't yell at him, I couldn't storm out because I realized I only have 12 more weeks. After I wiped a few tears, I started to smile thinking what will happen when he leaves his underwear on the floor when he starts Basic Training!!!

Tiff Turns 40!

2011-05-01T22:55:00.000-06:00

Just arrived from US Figure Skating Governing Council in Chicago to a yummy cake and wonderful family!

Marina

2011-04-27T20:42:00.000-06:00

Marina is from Estonia. She was training in Salt Lake City for the past 6 weeks. Jordan and Marina became fast friends and we loved having her with us! We hope to have her stay with us this summer.

Easter Fun with the Family

2011-04-24T20:36:00.000-06:00

Easter Dinner!

We ran out of marshmellows so we used the PEEPS!

Missy and Chris made the fabulous dessert!!! Strawberry something with whip cream!

General Conference

2011-04-03T18:20:00.000-06:00

It was another Family Fun Date! This time a family trip to General Conference. We had a few moans but everyone was on board to spend the Sunday afternoon attending General Conference. I provided coloring material, follow the talk worksheets, fun facts about conference and snacks!

It is just an amazing building and listening to the choir sing was so angelic.

I gave each of our children a red folder with worksheets, crosswords, facts and journal writing material. I also bribed them...who ever had the most filled packet would win a $20.00 gift card. It worked! They even told me the two hours went by so fast! I loved watching them try to find the photo of the apostle when he spoke in the material. Great talks on marriage, parenting and just trying to do YOUR best. I also received a sweet text from Kathy Olson who was thinking of me during conference.

Jason and his boys!

All grown up!

A little chilly but a fantastic afternoon with the family!

King's Family Fun Night

2011-03-26T17:53:00.002-06:00

Tanner leaves sooner than we think! I have set a goal to provide as many "Family Nights" before he leaves. We handed out the invitation to all the kids and VIP guests. We told them we would text them the location at 2:00 pm on Saturday, March 26.

We had an opportunity to stay for one night at a hotel (2 rooms and a fully equipped kitchen). Jason and I arrived early and made our favorite meal of tostado's and located up the room with snacks. We were waiting for their arrival.

We stayed up all night playing games, watching movies and talking. It was a great simple get away.

I love my family!

SKILLS USA - 1st PLACE

2011-03-25T17:43:00.005-06:00

Tanner and his film partner Isaiah competed in Skills USA for Television (Video) Production. This is Tanner's third year attending. The teams receive a theme and strict rules. They have two hours to storyboard and film and then another two hours to edit. It's quite a production attending this two day conference at the Salt Lake Community College. On the last day is a very, VERY long awards ceremony. It's loud with many teenagers and college students wearing red jackets or blazer EVERYWHERE. Tanner's first year his team was disqualified, last year his team took third place and this year, his team took FIRST PLACE!

It was so much fun watching his excitement! He won incredible gifts and a trip to Kansas City, Missouri for Nationals! This is a fantastic opportunity and fortunately the national championships is before basic training at Fort Benning!

1st Place!

Great way to end his senior year!!!

Off to Kansas City, Missouri June 19-24, 2011

Missy's 35th Birthday

2011-03-19T17:36:00.000-06:00

Happy Birthday Missy!!! We have no photos to share of her birthday because we did not do anything. Our lives have been so busy we have not seen each other in person for the past few months and we only live less than 10 minutes away. Isn't that so sad when life becomes so busy!!! We have left messages with each other and chatted a bit on facebook. Yuck! This will change in two more weeks when I am done with US Adult Figure Skating Championships! I MISS MY SISTER!

Jasmine is Hooked!

2011-03-02T17:31:00.000-07:00

She turned on us! Jasmine is hooked on Call of Duty and now joins the boys!!!

Parent Teacher Conference

2011-02-24T22:04:00.004-07:00

I have waited 13 years to FINALLY receive the most incredible Parent Teacher Conference concerning Tanner. (It was worth the wait!) Tanner has changed so much his senior year. He is so kind, ambitious and determined to not only become a great man but a great leader. I appreciated every word from every one of his teachers. Since he started kindergarten, I dreaded Parent Teacher Conferences with Tan Man. It was often negative and also entertaining. Comments I have received from teachers over the years:
"I admire the mother of Tanner King. He never stops moving!"
"Mrs. King, he is not safe...just last week he stuck his head in the open area of the rolling chair and got it stuck!" (I knew this because the principal had called me!)
"I don't think your son likes me" Tanner's response, "I don't. You are an awful teacher!"
"How do I keep him still?"
"He makes me nervous."
but for his last Parent Teacher Conference, I was told:
"What a talented young man!"
"Mrs. King, I had him in my class as a freshman and he was a menace...I was so not looking forward to having him again as a senior but to my surprise, he has become my friend and I enjoy our conversations!"
"Tanner is a leader not only to his peers but to the teachers." (Seriously???, even I questioned the teacher if we were talking about the correct student!)
"Tanner has not been easy to have in a class over the years, now I don't want him to leave."
"I am so proud of Tanner."

Yes, today was a very good day for Tan Man's mom! I will treasure today!

Jasmine's 18th Birthday

2011-02-17T17:25:00.000-07:00

Sweet Jasmine turned 18!!! She is Taylor's girlfriend for the past few years. We love having her around! Tanner and Jasmine will graduate in June from East High School. They are growing up so quickly!

Taylor turns 20!!!

2011-02-08T22:34:00.000-07:00

Can you believe it??? Taylor is 20!

He is doing great! Happy, cute girlfriend and great job. We have all traveled a very long road with our Taylor. We just love him so much!

Tanner's Big News

2011-01-18T17:14:00.001-07:00

Jason and I are proud and honored to share the news that Tanner has enlisted in the U.S. Army. He will begin Basic Training on August 8, 2011 at Fort Benning, Georgia. Tanner will attend a 14 week course and then we are told stationed at either Germany, Hawaii or Korea. This is a new adventure for Tanner and our family. We are excited and look forward to be a part of the Army family and Tanner serving our country.

Tanner's 18th Birthday

2011-01-03T17:25:00.000-07:00

Yes, it official...Jason and I are no longer legal guardian of child #2, just parents who love him forever!

Family Birthday Dinner

Missy and Chris joined us!

Another fabulous cake decorated by the kids!

I can't believe he is 18!!!

Mo's Turns 23!!!

2011-01-02T17:04:00.001-07:00

Mo came home from the Christmas holidays just in time for his brithday! Jordan made his quite colorful cake with loads of candles.

Christmas Morning

2010-12-25T16:20:00.000-07:00

It was a great holiday!

Christmas Eve

2010-12-24T16:20:00.000-07:00

It was our first Christmas home in this house. We had not celebrated Christmas in Utah in over 9 years! It was wonderful to spend the holidays with our children as they are growing up fast!!!

The kids stayed up until 3:00 am and play Monopoly.

We also stayed up and watched "Little Women".

However, we deeply missed my Dad and wished my Mom and brother were with us!

Zoo Lights

2010-12-21T16:20:00.000-07:00

After Junior Champs, it was nice to spend some family time and enjoy the holidays!

Taylor, Jordan, Courtney and Jasmine

I just love this man!

Fun Times!

2011 U.S. Junior Figure Skating Championships

2010-12-18T16:20:00.000-07:00

This has been my project for many, many months!

I placed the bid over a year ago and spent the next 12 months planning, organizing, recruiting to welcome over 300 of the top Juvenile and Intermediate figure skaters in the country.

Karen McCauley (SLFS Vice President) and I getting the event ready!

The last day! Bob Weston (SLFS President) and myself during the Awards Ceremony. It was a successful event that involved the entire family. Jason announced, G-MA was the hospitality chair, Jordan skated in the opening ceremony, Tanner and Mo was involved with the Competitor's Party and much much more! It was a rewarding experience!!!

It's a Little Snow Storm

2010-12-05T23:28:00.003-07:00

I love Utah!

Thanksgiving with the other King's

2010-11-25T22:46:00.000-07:00

Spending the holiday with Mo, Nate and the other King Family!

It was great to spend time with Tom's son Roy. He is 5 years old and full of imagination!

Julie and Roy

Uncle Tom and Jordan Thanksgiving Day

Tom and Julie came to Sundance, Utah to cook a fabulous Thanksgiving meal. It was fun to spend the holiday's with his family.

Shortly after dinner, everyone was ready for a nap! Mo and Nate joined us for the holidays.

Getting Ready for Christmas

2010-11-15T23:10:00.002-07:00

Mo came home from his last game of the season...(they lost) but he came home to Christmas Cheer!

It was fun to open the Christmas boxes. We have not decorated in over 6 years or least drag all the Christmas decorations out. It was going to be our first Christmas home in Utah for over 8 years! We decorated early because Jordan was competing in LA the end of November along with Thanksgiving and getting ready for Junior Championships!

Mo always comes in handy!

Pacific Coast Sectionals

2010-11-13T16:27:00.001-07:00

Jordan and Cordero competed in the Pacific Coast Sectional Championships November 9-13, 2010. Jordan didn't skate the way she wanted to but gained great experience. Cordero finished 4th and qualified for U.S. Figure Skating Championships.

Jordan came home and decided it was time to land some triples!

Sweet Victory against Montana

2010-10-30T21:44:00.004-06:00

I love when I sit in the stands and Mo is on the field, he looks over his shoulder to find us.

I love after each game the family and fans walk onto the field to hug their players...Mo always gives us a kiss.

I love when the music plays, you sometimes can find Mo dancing on the field during warm ups.

I love after the game is over, he wants to come home...our home.

I love these boys...

The WETTEST Game EVER!

2010-10-23T21:36:00.000-06:00

We returned home from California driving all day on Tuesday. We had not seen Mo for over a week, so he surprised us on Wednesday. We were then back on a football field on Saturday to watch Mo play in the WETTEST game EVER!!!

Seriously, it rained the entire game! Fortunately, we won!

I did something I thought I would never do...during the third quarter Mo trotted back to the locker room with two trainers. He did not seem hurt so I waited for him to return back to the field. Well, I waited and waited and waited. Finally, I couldn't wait any longer. I marched into the locker room to find out what was wrong with my Mo. He thought he had another concussion, so he was done playing....Mo is fine and will play next week.

BTW, their locker rooms are very messy!

She Made It!!!

2010-10-19T21:28:00.000-06:00

On Sunday, Jordan placed 1st place in her short program! It was beautiful, clean, confident skating. One of my favorite moments was watching her skate her short program. Jordan was so excited! The next day she competed her long program and was the last skater of the entire event. (A very long wait.) She placed 4th in her freeskate with another clean performance and high GOE scores. Combining scores from her short and long she finished 3rd overall and will advance to the Pacific Coast Sectional in November at Culver City, California. The photo above is a new recognition program USFS organizes. All the skaters who receive 2's in their GOE's for any element is posted and receives recognition. She had the most in her group!
Tanner joined us with GMA!

They had a fun time together.

GMA and Jordan...GMA will also join us in Culver City!!!

Central Pacific Regionals

2010-10-17T15:08:00.002-06:00

The rink is very cold, very loud, very busy! Jordan and I took a little walk and sat in a nice open area of grass. It was a beautiful sunny day.
She is skating great! Full of confidence and doing her job! She competes on Sunday and Monday. Jason used all the ice from our floor to give her an ice bath...(helps with sore muscles). She was smiling in this photo but shortly after she had a few tears. It stings after a few minutes!

Tanner and Jordan

2010-10-17T15:04:00.001-06:00

Tanner joined us for Regionals. He lasted one day and then we took him to Grandma's!!!
It's nice to see them get along!

It's Time for Regionals...

2010-10-13T22:13:00.000-06:00

...and we are off! We are leaving for the Central Pacific Regionals in Roseville, California. Jordan is doing very well and training hard! She skates Sunday and Monday. She needs to make the top 4 to advance to Sectionals!

The ORMSBY'S!!!

2010-09-25T22:36:00.001-06:00

It's been over 12 years since we last saw Karen and Alvin Ormsby! We moved to the East Bay and then Utah and they moved back to Australia. The past month they moved back to Utah (Ogden to be exact). Whitney attends Weber and they joined us for their first college football game. Mo had a concussion and did not play but we had a great time reconnecting!
Weber also won!!!

Homecoming 2010

2010-09-12T22:26:00.001-06:00

I never thought I would ever see this day! Tanner and Jordan attending Homecoming with the same group of friends!!! I LOVE IT!
Jordan and Hans (one of Tanner's best buddies!)

Tanner and Maddi

The kids had a great time! We had a house full of teenagers and everyone stayed over for Sunday cooking and football. It was a fun weekend.

Weber Won!!!

2010-09-11T23:21:00.000-06:00

It took 4 overtimes and the stadiums lights to turn off but Weber finally won their first home game of the season! It was the LONGEST game I have ever sat through, but I plan to sit through many more games to watch my Mo play football. He had a great game. We all came home to a house full of teenagers. Jordan and Tanner had their homecoming dance. Mo was sore and tired but getting ready to play Sacramento next week. I just love this kid and so proud of him!

I Seriously LOVE Them!!!

2010-09-09T21:25:00.003-06:00

There have been moments when I have not liked them...raising teenagers is like nailing jello to a tree! However, right now at this favorite moment I not only like them, I treasure them, I cherish them and I seriously LOVE them.

When It's a Bad Day...

2010-09-05T11:45:00.001-06:00

This is not a great blade to skate on! Last week Jordan's blade did a very RARE thing. The inside blade become loose. We used this wire to keep it together for a few days until her new blades arrived! I expect a refund...this might have been very dangerous.
While in LA, Jordan's boot had a malfunction! The tongue completely removed from the boot. Fontunately, a sweet man named Hans from the pro shop made a temporary fix. Her new boots will hopefully arrive next week!

Ice Cream at Manhattan Beach!

2010-09-02T23:34:00.000-06:00

Grandma and Jordan enjoyed this little snack at Manhatten Beach! This was after we ate at a great place with a handful of TV's playing all the football games! Loved it!

Visiting Grandpa King

2010-08-29T23:27:00.000-06:00

Jason took a moment from all the wedding activities to visit his Dad in Sebastopol, California.
Tanner at the front entrance to his house. Jason grew up on this property.

Jason and his Dad.

Grandpa King and the grandkids!

The Rehearsal Dinner

2010-08-27T21:16:00.000-06:00

Cubby and Meagan with all the Groomsmen!
Jason and I at the rehearsal dinner. I just love this man!

Another favorite...my brother, I love him too!

Mom, Chris and Missy...my new brother in law. I love him too because he makes my sister so happy!

Grandma and the Grandkids!

More people I love! Soon to come...photos of the wedding. It was fabulous, beautiful and such a great event to gather with family and friends. I loved every minute, except for the ouchy bridal shoes I had to wear!!!

First Day of School for Tan Man

2010-08-25T11:30:00.000-06:00

It was a bit crazy! Tanner started school and we dropped him off as Jason and I were heading to the airport. Jordan will start school when we get back from two weeks in CA!!! I look so forward to Tanner's senior year. I LOVE the bond Jordan and Tanner have despite the yelling and shouting. I LOVE watching Tanner grow up and figure out what he wants to do with his life. His adventures are wild and so ever changing!

The Night Before His Senior Year...

2010-08-24T22:58:00.003-06:00

While I am packing to leave for two weeks, I had to stop and realize this is the last night before Tanner's senior year of High School. We have so much happening in the next 5 months, it's almost frightening. The family is leaving (all at different times) to California for Cubby's wedding this Saturday, Jordan is competing in San Francisco and Los Angeles all in 9 days and everyone is returning back all on different days. It's crazy, seriously crazy and I am trusting everyone will remember to pack the new clothes we purchased for the wedding! Tanner will keep us on our toes but I will definitely enjoy what is coming our way. He had a group of friends over the other night. They had a pit fire outside and talked into the late hour. I was even surprised once the cute girls left, they sat and talked with me for a few hours watching the fire and cooking smores. What I didn't realize was the next morning when I observed the MESS in the backyard, Tanner had a gasoline can next to the fire!!! Oh, Tan Man, how much I LOVE this kid! I am bracing myself for the upcoming adventures...I can't believe he is a senior in high school and is still alive.

Now back to packing!

Our Mo

2010-08-10T00:01:00.002-06:00

I don't know what Jason and I did to be so blessed to have Mo is our family! Jordan spoke at church on Sunday and mention how pure love brings the most happiness. Sharing our love with Mo has brought such great happiness to our family. I love this photo because it captures his toughness...reminds me of the first day I met him. But behind the tough, determined look is a kind, gentle soul. I love how he cares so much about us. I love his laughter and I love how hard he is working to accomplish his goals! We just love our Mo and miss him while he is training!

Endless Love

2010-08-08T19:02:00.001-06:00

Missy and I could not attend Meagan's Bridal Shower in California. We decided to send her a special gift celebrating her "Endless Love" to our sweet brother! Jason, Chris, Missy and I had a blast making the video. This version includes the bloopers. I can't wait for August 28th!!!

Photo and video editing at www.OneTrueMedia.com

Skate Salt Lake

2010-08-07T20:00:00.000-06:00

Uncle Chris stopped by to watch Jordan compete at Skate Salt Lake!He was so inspired that he wanted to try some moves!!!

Chloe Barnes also stopped by to assist her mom, Annette Barnes, to present the Annette Barnes Award. Chloe and Jordan skated when they were very little! She is an amazing young lady!

It's always sweet to have Jasmine and Taylor around too!

Jordan placed first and continues to train HARD! She has one more week of summer training and then the travels begin. She will compete in San Francisco the end of this month, attend Cubby's wedding and then head down to LA for Goldenwest!!!

Jordan's Triple Toe

2010-07-30T22:07:00.000-06:00

Make an on-line slide show at www.OneTrueMedia.com

Mo is Back!

2010-07-11T21:42:00.000-06:00

Mo came back early! (I think he missed me.) He came just in time for Jordan's competition in Bountiful.

Tanner and Mo did not think they would be sitting for HOURS before she skated. The next day they decided to drive up with Leslie instead of me!

Jordan and Leslie...my two favorite ladies!

Jordan's New Program

2010-07-10T21:32:00.001-06:00

Jordan competed in Bountiful, Utah and landed both of her double axels!
She received many positive remarks about her dress, music and choreography.

Jordan finished in 1st place!

Happy Birthday Jordan!

2010-07-05T00:01:00.000-06:00

Fifteen years ago my Dad was holding her for the first time...

July 5, 1995 - She has stolen our hearts ever since!
December 25, 2002 - Her first skating dress.

June 19, 2010 - same green eyes and freckles

I love Jordan's laugh when she watches George Lopez.

I love how she cuddles with her Daddy.

I love how mature she acts when traveling.

I love how excited she gets to spend time with Grandma.

I love how hard she works.

Despite her stubborness, I love her determination.

I love how much she cares about Taylor and Tanner.

I love watching her and Mo hang out and watch movies after a long week of training.
I love giving her back rubs.

I love watching her around babies.

I love being her Mom!

~Happy Birthday~

Broadmoor Competition

2010-06-25T18:49:00.000-06:00

After a few weeks off the ice to mend the back and MANY nights of debating whether to attend Broadmoor, we finally made the decision and boarded the plane. This was our 6th year at Broadmoor.

Cordero and Jordan on the plane heading to Denver. We have a new dress and Grandma also joined us but no one took photos.

This man was so sweet to Jordan. We were ready to leave the car rental when he asked Jordan to roll down her window and gave her motivational speech. He had no idea she was a figure skater. I was touched by his words too bad it didn't kick in until the second day of competition!

His advice to Jordan and told her to repeat:

I believe I can do it!

I can try to do it!

I will do it!

Jordan did not skate well for her qualifying round and came in 11th. It was very disappointing but we all learned valuable lessons about giving up. She came back strong the next day for another event and finished 3rd. On the positive side...she landed her beautiful, huge double axel in program and received a high GOE score. She needed to overcome the hurdles from the past month and we all look forward to the next months of training. Next competition is Copper Cup held July 8-10 in Bountiful!

Time Goes by so Fast...

2010-06-19T23:29:00.009-06:00

Jason and Taylor are busy umpiring for the pre district and All Star games this month. I stopped by to watch a few games. Flood of memories rushed through my mind as I approached the same ball fields that Taylor and Tanner played just a few short years ago!
I remember sitting behind this exact fence with the scorebook on my lap, slurpee in one hand and my other hand reaching for some Dill Spitz Seeds! The best. My friend and I would try to gracefully spit the seeds between the fence holes. We even had a point system!

It was these same fields that I felt guilty not being more of a "girly" mother for Jordan. She was just seven years old with a baseball cap on backwards, cut up knees and dirt from head to toe. I found a three week Learn to Skate program that fit in our fall baseball schedule in 2002. Little did I know where that would take us! We start traveling on Monday to Colorado for her first competition of the season!

Interesting how Taylor has blue eyes, Tanner has brown eyes and Jordan has green eyes...but no red heads!

Goofy photo of Taylor but they both look so handsome!

My Dad would have enjoyed watching Taylor umpire! We are so proud of the great positive changes he has made the past 6 months. I love to sit back and watch him interact with the other coaches and parents!

Jason behind the plate. After four games on a hot, WINDY day of baseball he is ready for a massage!

Tanner's First Surgery

2010-06-17T23:13:00.002-06:00

Last year Tanner stepped on a metal cleat that I thought had since healed. Instead, it caused a marble size scar tissue with a bunch of nerves in a knot...causing much pain for Tanner! During his check up at Shriner's, the doctors thought it would be best to remove the tissue.As he is wheeled into surgery, he is greeted by Sully and Mike. Mike even has a cast on his hand!
Tanner did well...had a tricky time waking up and was in the recovery for over 2 hours. Once he was back in his room all he wanted was food! Best part for me is how much he told me he loved me over and over again!
His favorite gift was the Sesame Street, bright orange fleece blanket they gave him.

Now that the numbing block wore off, he wasn't as pleasant to be around. He loves the percocet! Tanner is on crutches and can not put any weight on the foot for three weeks. Wish us luck!

Summer Fun

2010-06-16T10:38:00.001-06:00

I organize a Summer Fun and Fitness Camp at the Sports Complex. The kids swim, skate, play football, and many other games for 5 hours. We offer daily drop in and weekly rates. I received a phone call that the kids are on the ice with hockey sticks, which is not allowed. I quickly rushed downstairs to the rink to find Tanner and Hans being resourceful with the hockey sticks! The three cute boys were scared to skate on the ice, fortunately, Tanner and Hans made it fun. They circled the rink with the three boys in a tight grip on the stick!
I then found these boys collecting the rest of the sticks! Meet Chapman and Brandon...great guys! Hope their coach doesn't see them in hockey skates...(However, he may be a little busy with the PAC-10 news!)

Happy Birthday Cubby!

2010-06-08T09:25:00.001-06:00

Happy Birthday Cubby!
Cubby stopped by Utah for a quick short trip to celebrate his birthday with us!

The family attended the Bee's game.

Jason and Leslie eating garlic fries.
Jasmine and Taylor joined us too. Check out his cute ears!
Sweet Leslie and Jordan!

Tanner came home from Football Camp just in time to see Cubby for an hour.
We love our Cubby and glad to have this short trip with him. Next time we see him is in August when he gets MARRIED!