Watcha-Kunna-Noo?

A Woman’s Work Is Never Done….. No Matter Your Age!

2009-12-31T19:23:00.000-08:00

Ellie and her Bosom buddy Zoe working hard to earn some dinero. Craft supplies were in demand. My good friend Lisa aka Zoe’s mom gave them some earning opportunities…. “Cinderellie, Cinderellie, night and day it’s Cinderellie".” Ellie earned $17.00, it didn’t burn a hole in her pocket for long!

Jumping for Joy!

2009-12-29T18:35:00.000-08:00

School Breaks are what kids live for! Schedule and routine go out the window and are replaced by spontaneity, adventure and fun, fun, fun! We tried out a new attraction in town…. JUMP STREET! A blast for kids and adults!

Photos courtesy of Lisa Heuer

Santa Clause Came To Town

2009-12-25T19:21:00.000-08:00

We packed in a full day on Christmas. Presents at home in the morning, a highlight was the custom quilts Nana made for Daimon and Ellie. We headed to Granma Teri and Grandpa Jim’s for breakfast with the Spratlley Clan. Finished the day at Aunt Cody’s for dinner with the Brown Clan… cousin’s galore! It was wonderful to celebrate with all our family.

Christmas Eve 2009

2009-12-24T19:11:00.000-08:00

Uncle Josh and Aunt Nic hosted Christmas Eve. Smores by the camp fire, snacks, and plenty of socializing. The kids enjoyed a present game of their own as did the adults. We were surrounded by aunts, uncles, cousins, grandparents and friends. It was great to celebrate with so many loved ones.

Christmas Eve Dinner…. The Deli

2009-12-24T18:36:00.000-08:00

Before heading off to Christmas Eve parties we felt it only fitting to have a beautiful meal, minus all the work and clean up. We celebrated at The Deli (a local favorite) with our good friends The Heuer’s and cousin Wes. Our meal started with a delicate puff pastry filled with roasted vegetables and goat cheese and a creamy white sauce. That was followed with a green salad with fresh made salami and mozzarella and a light vinaigrette. Then it was filet and grilled shrimp, roasted potatoes, asparagus and hollandaise. We completed the meal with chocolate lava cakes with berries and vanilla gelato. SATISFACTION!

Photos courtesy of Lisa Heuer and Benny

First Golf Lesson

2009-12-21T19:49:00.000-08:00

Here is our Retirement Policy…I always wanted to be a professional caddie. Good Job Kids! We are so proud of you.

Festivus on Ice 2009

2009-12-16T20:43:00.000-08:00

Festivus on Ice 2009 from Tim Heuer on Vimeo.

Our friends “The Heuer’s” have a Festivus Party every year, and this year they rented out a local ice skating rink. To gain admission to the party you had to come dressed in your worst Christmas getup. Kelly and I did our best, but as you can see form the Video Clip we were clearly out done this year…Thanks Tim and Lisa we all had a wonderful time!

First Performance for the Phoenix Boy’s Choir

2009-12-15T13:00:00.000-08:00

Daimon had his first Phoenix Boy’s Choir performance. He did awesome and we are proud of him. He was smiling from ear to ear during the entire performance.

Christmas Nativity

2009-12-13T20:07:00.000-08:00

Let Freedom Sing “Jazz”

2009-12-09T20:09:00.000-08:00

Future Concert Pianist…. She’s Hoping

2009-12-07T19:25:00.000-08:00

The proud performer

Mrs.. Meagan

Temple Lights 2009

2009-12-05T21:18:00.000-08:00

Professionals At The State Capital

2009-12-02T20:37:00.000-08:00

Daimon’s school choir was invited to sing at the State Capital this year. They stole the show with their Jazz tunes. Grandma Teri, Grandpa Jim and cousin Ely came to support Daimon along with mom and dad

Birthday and Turkey Day All In One

2009-11-26T21:11:00.000-08:00

Grandpa Jim shared his birthday this year with the turkey, what more can a guy ask for on his special day than a beautiful feast with family, complete with cake and pie? When the Spratley’s get together there is no shortage of camera time…..whether you’re a willing party or not you’re subject to photo opts….we get a little crazy sometimes!

Warlocks And Sorcerer’s On The Prowl

2009-10-31T22:23:00.000-07:00

Sadly Daddy missed Halloween due to a business trip to Chicago. We were happy to have Grandpa Jim and Grandma Teri as well as Uncle Josh, Aunt Nic, Ely, Colton, Raelynn, Aunt Lynn and Brian join us for Trick-or-Treating. We started the night with a Chili block party with neighbors complete with homemade root beer. The only thing missed was Daddy and his “speed trick-or-treating” technique. Colton came prepared this year with his scooter in tow and was a little put out Ben wasn’t in attendance! Sorry Colt, there’s always next year!

Fall Break Festivities

2009-10-12T22:26:00.000-07:00

Daddy opted to sit on the sidelines and capture our fun on film! Kelly and the kids enjoyed the ice and remained standing most of the time.

We Are Officially In The Double Digits(10)!

2009-09-27T21:20:00.001-07:00

It was a weekend of celebrating for Daimon and the party went on for 3 days straight. Friday he celebrated at school with birthday treats…. Hershey’s chocolate bars! Saturday was the traditional dinner at Carrabba’s where Jay made a party platter of desserts created especially for Daimon. Sunday was Daimon’s actual birthday. Presents, homemade cheeseburgers and fry’s……were his meal of choice followed with Baskin Robbins mint chip ice-cream cake. All crowd pleasers!

“I Think I’m Starting To Get Famous!”

2009-09-27T20:51:00.001-07:00

It’s official…… we have a member of the Phoenix Boys Choir. Daimon’s choir teacher at school asked us to take him for an audition and so it began. He announced that he made it to his school choir teacher. She told him she was going to post it in the school paper. Later, Ben was putting Daimon to bed and Daimon’s remark was “Dad, I think I’m starting to get famous.” Life through the eyes of a 10 year old!

A little about the prestigious “Phoenix Boys Choir”:

Mission: The Phoenix Boys Choir, through educating boys in the art of singing and performing the finest music in the boy choir tradition, develops character, discipline, leadership, global awareness, and a strong commitment to excellence, thereby contributing to the greater Phoenix musical life and enhancing Arizona's cultural reputation nationally and internationally.

Since 1948, the Phoenix Boys Choir has provided top quality music education for boys ages 7-14 and lively entertainment for audiences around the world previously under the direction of Dr. Harvey K. Smith, who led the choir for forty years. The choir has been under the baton of Georg Stangelberger since 1999. Each season, 40 to 50 singers from the 170 member Phoenix Boys Choir are selected for membership in the organization's elite Tour Choir. Ranging from 10 to 14 years of age, these singers are lauded internationally as a result of their intensive Arizona-based training program.

Concert tours throughout the United States, Europe, Australia, Canada, Mexico, China, and Japan have brought the choir both audience and critical acclaim as one of the globe's outstanding boy choirs. The Phoenix Boys Choir has performed for four United States Presidents and with name entertainers such as Doc Severinsen, Stevie Wonder, and Keith Lockhart conducting the Boston Pops Orchestra. In 2001, they were named "Cultural Ambassadors" to the European Union and in December of 2002 were named an Honorary Phoenix Point of Pride by the Honorable Skip Rimza, Mayor of Phoenix.

In February 2000, the Choir won a Grammy for Best Choral Performance for its recording of Penderecki's Credo with the Oregon Bach Festival Orchestra and Chorus conducted by Helmuth Rilling. Credo is one of eight compact discs featuring the Choir, the most recent being Joy To The World.

In February 2003, the Tour Choir performed for the American Choral Directors Association Convention in New York City at Carnegie Hall, the Lincoln Center and Riverside Church.

In July 2007, the Phoenix Boys Choir won first place in the Summa Cum Laude International Youth Music Festival at the world-renowned Musikverein in Vienna, a competition created to provide a unique platform for the world's most talented youth choirs, bands and orchestras.

http://www.boyschoir.org

Family Pictures

2009-09-19T21:52:00.000-07:00

Spratley Family September Birthday Party

2009-09-11T22:13:00.000-07:00

It’s always a PARTY when the Spratley’s are together. We celebrated the September birthdays at Peter Piper. Russ, Justin, Josh and Daimon were the birthday boys. “Amma Teri” couldn’t resist a Kodak moment of The ENTIRE family in their trucks.

In A Kayak, Down By The River

2009-08-15T19:39:00.000-07:00

Family time is precious, and making memories is priceless. We had a great time doing both, kayaking the Salt River with the Heuer’s. Kyle Robinson came to “supervise.” He’s the self titled “father hen” and likes to make sure everyone is safe and has great time! He learned all there is to know about Bakugan’s since Daimon was his co-pilot. He also did a great job teaching Daimon to paddle and maneuver the kayak. Thanks everyone for a great time!

Kyle teaching Daimon the ropes

Kelly and Ellie, like birds of a feather we daredevils stick together! Those rapids didn’t scare us, we felt the need for speed!

The weather and scenery were perfect!

Lisa and “The Nugget.” Unfortunately Lisa was the only one smiling in this duo, Zane woke up on the wrong side of the bed that day and let his mom know the entire trip!

Du, Du, Du, another one bites the dust! Benny kept us laughing the entire trip with his diving abilities. He was the only one to flip his kayak…. twice!

The Man’s got skills

He won’t be dry for long!

We can have moments of joy without butting heads, I didn’t know it was possible!

Last but not least, Timmy shared in the fun with Zoe as co-pilot

Vance Family Party

2009-08-08T21:21:00.000-07:00

Vance Family Summer 2009

Having a little fun…

Hot Mama’s

Caught “Favorite Aunt” Debbie taking pictures…love the smile!

Daimon didn’t waste any time making friends with a cousin,

Our cousin Kim Dray was in town from Minnesota, so we all decided to get together for a BBQ and swim party. It was so fun to see everyone, and reconnect with extended family. We love you all.

Happy Birthday Dad

2009-07-30T20:41:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday Day!!!

Spencer and Susan in 1969

My Dad and Me at a couple of weeks old….

May 10,1979 13th Ward Fathers and Sons Outing

My family has started a tradition of email memory’s of each other on their Birthday so…Here are a few of my memories of Dad….

· Dad didn’t watch a lot of TV. He would always say “If you have time for TV you have time for chores”. On Saturday’s he would work me to the bone, but I knew that if I could convince him that there was a UofA basketball game on TV in the afternoon he couldn’t resist laying on the floor under the swamp cooler taking a nap. Go Wildcats!!!!!!!!!!

· One of the greatest gifts he gave me was to teach me how to work. To this day I believe I can out work anyone because of the lessons he taught me. I remember starting at a very young age working with Dad. Here are few of the memorable projects.

-The Swimming Pool. (I vividly remember starting the project with shovels in hand until the four Mexicans came up the lane looking for work…they really saved us a summer full of digging. Sometimes I wonder if Dad was really trying to just keep us busy all summer by digging a big hole. No one ever believes me when I tell them about our pool until I show them the pictures. If you remember the first couple of days each summer you would swim barefoot. Then have to swim the next week with socks on because the bottom of the pool was so ruff it would peel the bottom of your foot off. I could talk all day about the pool…….when we got a couple of years older he decided it needed to be deeper, so he stacked two layers of cinder block around the pool to make it two feet deeper.)

-Items used: Sweat, cinder blocks, concrete, shovels, Conklin roofing product to seal the cracks, rebar and baling wire.

- Garage. (I don’t know the story behind why he decided to build it…but I am guessing it had something to do with Grandpa Vance. Dad? Dad built the thing like a fortress(Rebar reinforced Cement Floors, six inch thick cinder block walls ten feet high, steal rafters, bolted down ½ inch plywood, tin roof screwed down. I remember us all having a lot of fun in there(playing in the rafters, riding skateboards and bikes round the inside like a track.) It was big enough to hold a washer/dryer, ten bikes (all with their own peg to hang on), two cars, ten 50 gallon barrels of wheat, tools, welder, and a deep freeze.)

-Items used: Sweat, cinder blocks, concrete, shovels, rebar, welder, steel tubes, plywood, Conklin roofing products, and baling wire.

- Reroofing the house many times. (The time that sticks out to me most is when he decided to use the wood Grandpa Brown and Uncle Mark got from the condemned house’s from the mines in Morenci. Let’s just say it was not the straightest stuff in the world. But, we got it done…)

-Items used: Sweat, old crappy wood formally condemned , and Conklin roofing products.

- Pulling the old Cotton Wood Tree Down. (The tree had a 10 food diameter base, but was hollowed out. Dad was afraid that it would fall down in a storm, so he needed to cut it down. He cut it completely around the base, but it didn’t move a bit. So he borrowed a tractor from Lealand and pulled it over.)

- Items used: Sweat, chainsaw, tractor, and not baling wire this time. He had to get a 200 foot cable to pull it down with.

- The yearly burning of the field. (Bring on the Pomerene Fire Department. We would start in one corner of the field each year with the plan of slowly working are way around the field. It never seemed to work that way. It always ended up with running around with shovels, hoses, and bucks of water with gunnysacks to swat the fire down.)

- Items used: Sweat, shovels, bucks of water, and kid swinging gunnysacks.

- List of some day to day things I did with dad: chop wood, work on cars(where I learned to swear), garden(did my first garden this year-thanks dad), home teaching….

· Dad would get so mad at me during dinner because I wouldn’t eat my squash that he would take me outside and say “start running”. I had to run around the house while he kicked me in the butt. The girls would beg me to just eat it.

· Dad got a kick out of me getting bucked off the colts, when he was breaking them.

· Dad always made us Breakfast. I still remember the taste of the orange, gratefruit, and tangerine juice cocktail…pucker up!

· One last funny story. One time on one of our many tips to the desert to throw something away. The station wagon broke down. Dad barrow one of Lealands tractors to pull it home. Dad drove the tractor and I drove the car. Mind you I was only 12 at the time. I acted like I knew what I was doing, but my heart was pounding. The car didn’t have power steering and the breaks weren’t working very well. I kept running into the back of the tractor and Dad kept giving me dirty looks…Sorry I was 12!

-This made me remember Dad teaching us how to drive. Kill me now…Little did he know we had all been taking the cars out joyriding for years around Lealands farm….

I could go on forever about Dad. Dad you are the best Dad any kid could have asked for. I appreciate all the lesson you taught me, and how hard you worked for all of us. As I get older I understand you more and more…there was a method to the madness. Seven living kids all active and married in the temple, you and mom have built quite a legacy.

Your smartest, best looking, hardest working kid(as you always call me)!

-Ben

First Day of School – Summer is so short

2009-07-27T16:13:00.000-07:00

Wicked…… A New Love Is Found!

2009-07-19T17:32:00.000-07:00

Thanks to a wonderful birthday present from Mom and Dadda Spratley we found a new love….. the Broadway show “Wicked”. We were so impressed with the clever writing and witty characters…captivating!

The Perky character of Glinda was fantastic

It’s not easy being GREEN!

Who knew the wicked witch lives on.... and isnt' really wicked after all!

Sweeney Todd

2009-07-18T17:31:00.000-07:00

“Bad Andy” otherwise known as our talented friend Andrew McKee was cast in his dream role as Sweeney Todd at one of our local community theaters. We went with a group of friends and have to say Andrew was AMAZING in the most frightening way. His nick name “Bad Andy'” was very fitting as the murdering barber, Sweeney Todd. He was so convincing that after the play we had to see him face to face to be sure he was not truly demented like his character. Congrats Andrew on an outstanding performance and God given gift of that BEAUTIFUL voice! Oh and I can’t forget Andrew’s counterpart, Mrs. Lovett, the pie maker….. she had such natural comedic timing and was also truly fantastic!

Fathers and Son’s

2009-07-17T19:26:00.000-07:00

Daimon and his friends…could not get them out of the cave.

Daimon and I always look forward to the Fathers and Son’s Campout all year. This year it was at Potato Lake about 10 miles north of Pine, AZ. Soft batch Chocolate Chip Cookies, Chips, Grape Pop…What’s not to love

San Diego – Do we have to go home?

2009-07-10T21:39:00.000-07:00

We enjoyed every minute of time with loved ones, surf, sand and gifts from the ocean like live baby octopus and starfish! These are memories we look forward to creating all year and remember for a lifetime!

San Diego – We Got her into the Water…Yessss!

2009-07-08T21:21:00.000-07:00

San Diego – Wiffle Ball Any

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

San Diego – Pool Party

2009-07-05T22:41:00.000-07:00

San Diego – Second Beach Day

2009-07-05T17:21:00.000-07:00

San Diego – First Beach Day

2009-06-28T17:29:00.000-07:00

It was SO FUN to have our Aunt Lynn and cousin’s Colten and Raylynn at the beach this year. Daimon and Ellie were thrilled to have play mates, Ben and I were thrilled to not have them fighting with one another! The four of them played their little hearts out all day every day! We hope they come again next year…..

Camping Part 4 – Fishing with Grandpa

2009-06-08T22:58:00.000-07:00

Camping Part 3 – Misc. Pics

2009-06-07T22:52:00.000-07:00

Camping Part 2

2009-06-06T22:46:00.000-07:00

Camping with the Spratley’s Part 1

2009-06-05T22:35:00.000-07:00

Another Year Over

2009-06-03T22:24:00.000-07:00

Bowling with the Spratley's

2009-05-29T19:17:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday Ben

2009-05-06T22:28:00.000-07:00

1978-Ben's 3rd Birthday

1979-Amy, Audrey, Cody, Susan(Mom), and Ben

1980-Audrey, Grandma Vance, Ben, and Cody

1982-Ben and Lason Barney(Best Friends)

My siblings had a little fun with me today over email, and I thought it would be fun to share. This is how it all started courtesy of my brother Jonathan. I tried to replay to their roasts.

Jonathan

Maybe we can tell our favorite memories of Ben.......Here's mine.

I remember when Ben suplexed me on Mom and Dad's bed and popped my rib out of place. I still have the lump on my chest to prove it. I also remember when Ben would make me stand out in the yard with my shirt off, while he would shoot me w/the B B gun, adding an extra pump with every shot.

Happy B-Day Brother!

-You are never going to let me forget this one are you? Sorry Bro…

Next was Cody's:

Hum...I think I have a birthday memory or two for Ben.

#1 How about the time when Ben pooped his pants when we were all playing outside and he said, "Girls, I think it's time we go in now!" Did I mention the poop was down his leg!

-Still hate to stop what I am doing to go to the bathroom. Daimon also inherited this…

#2 How about the time when Ben told Jimmy Overson, "Cody wears a bra!" Oh-thanks a million brother!!!!!

-What are brothers for…

#3 How about the times when Ben chased me around the house with a fly swatter when mom and dad were gone. I would have to cry so that Ben would stop! Well, actually one time I threw a boot at his bedroom door and made a hole in it because I was so mad at him!

-Cody was nicer than Audrey…She hit me in the head with a pan and when that didn’t work she stepped it up and kicked me in the nuts…I stopped!

#4 How about the times when Ben would lay in his bed in the morning telling mom that he was sick so that he didn't have to go to school!

-It worked every time…

#5 Remember when Ben got into drawing the Bald Eagel! Mom was so pround and Ben was too!

-I still have it…

All in all Ben is the best little brother a sister could have!

Happy Birthday 34!!!!!!!!!!

Cody

Next came Audrey:

Happy Birthday to my little Brother Benjarmin Dewitt Brown!! I think you look so good for your age of 34! Hope you have a wonderful day today!

Memories of Ben:

When Ben played on Peanut League Baseball he used to yell at his teammates when they would miss the ball or mess up!

-That wasn’t very nice of me…But they still should have caught the ball…

When Ben started wrestling on the team with the Barney boys, I used to hate going to watch him wrestle because I thought he was getting hurt and I wanted to cry for him!

-If I am telling the truth…I cried at my first tournament, but mom wouldn’t let me quite…

I remember when Ben was a freshman and he got his first girlfriend "Tessa" . At a football game tessa was cold and Ben gave her his jacket to wear. I remember I was so embarrassed!

-Ladies Man!

Ben tried out for Freshman class president coming straight from Pomerene School and believe it or not he Won! He was a popular kid!

-What was I thinking?

Me and Ben had to square dance and Gineva Sherman was our teacher.

-We would try to hide in the tree house when it was time to go to practice.

Ben let me cheat off his Algebra tests and I copied all his homework. Ben helped me pass Algebra! Thanks Ben

-I think half the class would cheat off me. I believe this was the path to your desk (Jen Florais to Max V. to Tommy A. to Robert Rize to you and back from there….). Mr. Richards was clueless…

Love,

Audrey

Amy finished it off:

Wow the memories we all share!

#1 Ben used to trap me and Jon in the corner of Mom and Dads bed and beat us with a pillow!

-I thought we were having fun…

#2 Ben got up in front of the whole school and busted out a solo for Benson Union High School when no one new he had such talent!

-Superstar

#3 Ben posed for his senior picture with no shirt on and put a basketball in one hand and blue jeans on his bottom end.

-Not senior pictures, I was getting my missionary pictures. Audrey’s roommates all asked for the no shirt picture.

#4 Ben played barbies with me and was the taxi man driver. I wonder if he still plays today!!!!!!!!!

-Yes, still like barbies…

Kelly comes to my rescue:

Oh Yeah! My baby’s still got it at 34!!

It’s a good thing Benny did all his teasing and torture in his younger years, sorry you had to bare the brunt of it JB! He is just sweet as pie now!

~KB

The FINALE Performance

2009-05-02T21:04:00.000-07:00

3 Years in the making.... Ellie has just completed her Let's Play Music program. She has composed her own piece to play for her final performance. She titled it "The Chinese Garden." Ellie introduced her piece to the audience and asked them to listen closely and they would hear flowers floating in the air! It was a symphony of floating flowers!

A little nervous before the big performance

She's so bright she's "Gotta Wear Shades", singing "The Root" song

Introducing herself and her piece to the audience

An artist at work

Smile of satisfaction, proud of herself and her performance.

Certificate of completion.... she definitely earned it!

Ellie and the AMAZING "Mrs. Chanda"

She looks good with one of these!

Grandma Teri, Nana and Poppy all experienced "The Music of the Night!" Driving to a funeral, the doctor and a music performance.... hectic,

Plane tickets..... expensive, sleeping on blow-up mattress.... torture, building memories with grandchildren..... priceless!

Who's got "Bangs"!

2009-04-30T20:23:00.000-07:00

Ellie has observed the style of having bangs, and decide that she had to have them.

3 Runners and the Dirty 6..... Mud Run that is!

2009-04-25T20:33:00.000-07:00

6 miles, 6 obstacles and a mud pit..... ADVENTURE!

Before the Battle

The MUD PIT

Geared Up and READY TO RUN!!

GRRRRR!!!

Spectators Get Dirty Too!!

Diving in.....

Going ALL OUT.....

Really Down and Dirty.......

Nic and Kelly Emerge From the Pit..... Triumphant!

We Came, We Saw, We Conquered!!!

A Muddy Girl's Best Friend..... CLEAN WATER!

The Spoils of Battle!

Farmer Brown, Farmer Brown, How Does Your Garden Grow?

2009-04-22T20:39:00.000-07:00

This year I(Ben) decided to get my act together and plant a garden. I planted a couple rows of seeds: Chives, Broccoli, Carrots, Spinach, Cantaloupe, Peas, and Green Beans. But, I have to admit I went to Home Depot with Daimon and bought a couple starter plants: Tomato's, Squash, Herbs, Strawberry's, and Cucumber. As you can see Ellie has been supervising the hole effort, even taking pictures with an old cell phone to make sure I am doing it right. She goes out every afternoon and checks the progress and sings to the plants. Her teacher Mrs. Childress told her if you sing to plants it helps them feel loved and grow better. Our plants are definitely "feeling the love" on a daily basis! It's an exciting new adventure, wish me luck!

Brown Family Reunion

2009-04-18T19:51:00.000-07:00

The entire Spencer Brown clan

The Ben Brown clan with Grandma and Grandpa Brown

A love that's withstood the test of time.....

pucker up.....

sweet smooches....

We all aspire to have a love like this!

Jay...He Spoils us...

2009-04-17T17:46:00.000-07:00

Friends in the right places has it's benefits! Over the years we've developed a friendship with the manager of an Italian restaurant we like to frequent. Meet JAY! He is so good to us and the kids. We've been going so long he's watched them grow up and celebrate many special occasions. He always whips up something spectacular!

This was his creation for Ellie's latest celebration.... four gigantic scoops of ice cream, each topped with something to please any young guest. Sprinkles, chocolate chips, caramel and apples, bananas with chocolate sauce etc. The kids feel like royalty and beam from ear to ear! Thanks Jay for spoiling us and the kids rotten!

Easter Sunday

2009-04-12T20:10:00.000-07:00

Look what the funny bunny brought.....

Ellie makes short work of her basket!

Bakugan's..... The Easter Bunny really knows Daimon well!

The Spratley clan's Easter dinner, good times! Auntie Kelly couldn't convince Ely to let her hold him..... It's a battle of wills and I'm not giving up hope yet!

Happy Easter from the "Brownies"

Grandma Teri takes the Girls to see Cats

2009-04-11T20:18:00.000-07:00

Grandma's are great at spoiling..... fortunately for Ellie Grandma Teri likes to spoil her with Broadway shows...... lucky girl!

Show us your best cat stance!

Nashville Tennessee

2009-03-25T20:40:00.000-07:00

I had to go Nashville Tennessee for a software conference this week. It was held at the Gaylord Opryland Resort. It is the largest non-casino hotel in the world and the largest hotel in the United States outside Las Vegas. It has 2,881 rooms with four open indoor garden area's that are bigger than football fields.

Indoor river you could take a boat ride on.

Outside my room.

Also outside my room.

Tuesday Night I was able to go the Live Grand Ole Opry performance. It is a two hour that is broadcast on a nation wide radio station WSM. Each performer gets about 15mins, which is about 3 songs. It was a mix of older performers that have been around for 50 years and some of the new talent. Here is the lineup (Jeannie Seely, Emily West, Jimmy Newman, The Infamous Stringdusters, Jean Shepard, Craig Morgan, John Conlee, and Dierks Bentley). It was a great time.

Water Watchers Field Trip

2009-03-24T17:37:00.000-07:00

Most adults probably look back at grade school field trips with fond memories. I love having the opportunity to share those memories and experiences with them, it's one of the joys of motherhood! Our first stop was a picnic lunch on the MCC campus!

Water safety day included making a framed hand print with a promise to follow the ABC's of water safety.

These girls were listening very intently to the firemen's instructions after climbing through the fire truck!

What child doesn't like cotton candy???

We got to watch the helicopter take off...... pretty amazing!

"Sprinkler" and "Bubbles".... this dynamic duo did a great skit on water safety!

A day of fun, and learning makes for some worn out kids!

A little Spring Break Fun...Pool Time!

2009-03-20T11:14:00.000-07:00

Spring Break...San Diego

2009-03-14T11:34:00.000-07:00

Gonna party like it's my Birthday!

2009-02-28T19:49:00.000-08:00

O Yeah! It's my Birthday....

Isn't she so sweet..

Like mother like daughter...fashion!

There is nothing like a tailgate party for your Birthday. Ellie and Daimon are looking for the Devaney's to arrive so the party can begin. Pizza, Orange Crush, and Baskin Robbins Ice Cream Cake...that's a Party Brown Style!

Ellie and her friend Brenna

Ready set Go!

Kelly and Christine...Hot Mama's!

So Graceful...I Love Her!

What a Night...Thanks Polar Ice! Happy Birthday Ellie "We Love You!"

3rd Place Baby...Pinewood Derby Time!

2009-02-28T19:19:00.000-08:00

Let me just start by saying that I am not sure who the Pinewood Derby is more for "Fathers or Sons". I never had a car that won a race, and I can still remember how bad that felt as a kid. So my goal every year for Daimon is not to have him win the whole thing. It's to have him win at least one race...

This year Daimon decided to paint his car red. So the name "Hot Rod" seemed to fit the bill. Daimon thought the flames were cool.

OK "Dad" hold your breath....

Yippee we won the first race...(Dad stops holding his breath...now this is fun!)

3rd Place Baby.....

Can I have one....I like mine frozen!

"Project Pink"...Building Self-Esteem from the inside out.

2009-02-28T16:28:00.000-08:00

Ellie's School Singing Performance

2009-02-24T21:24:00.001-08:00

Snap...Snap...This is how we do it!

2009-02-22T21:06:00.001-08:00

Croquet Anyone?

2009-02-21T21:48:00.000-08:00

To celebrate the family January/February birthdays (Colten, Kelly, Grammy, Teri, Becky, Ellie) we did a croquet themed party. Everyone had to wear their best croquet duds. We grilled burgers on the barbie and played a mean game of croquet, it brought out everyone's competitive spirit! It was so fun to see everyone's outfits! This is a family who definitely knows how to have fun together...... "a family that plays together stays together!"

Weekend Surprise!!

2009-02-13T22:31:00.000-08:00

Much to our delight, our cousin Tara and her new hubby Scott made a last minute road trip to Arizona. They are such a fun couple and it was great getting to know Scott better. His amazing homemade salsa was an added bonus. The weekend was spent introducing Scott to all the "Foodie" musts in the valley. You could call it an eating marathon! Tara shared her talent and took some amazing family photos for us. Thanks Tara and Scott for spending Valentines with us, we love you!

Tara helped me pick out a new "signature scent"

Class Valentine Parties

2009-02-13T21:57:00.000-08:00

Field Trip - Peter and the Wolf

2009-02-12T22:06:00.000-08:00

This is the FUN STUFF! I love to chaperone for field trips! We went to the Chandler Center of the Arts. A symphony performed Peter and the Wolf while a narrator told the story. The kids LOVED it! These were Daimon's class mates in our group.

Running Club - First Race

2009-02-04T13:46:00.001-08:00

Back to Life, Back to Reality!

2009-01-31T20:36:00.000-08:00

An affair to remember!

Old San Juan

2009-01-28T20:33:00.000-08:00

The district of Old San Juan is full of great architecture and quaint little shops and cafes. The streets are made of an amazing blue - black cobble stone. The buildings are painted every pastel of the rainbow. A lot of cruise ships stop at this port.

This statue had a giraffe like body with a cat like face.

Beautiful architecture

The town was full of statues

Skinniest house in San Juan.... yes, the yellow building is the front of somebody's house!

The FURRY tree

Benny loving the FURRY tree

Benny running the stairs

While we were in San Juan a cruise liner must have stopped to port. We were enjoying the quiet uncrowded city and suddenly there were MEN everywhere. Thousands and thousands of MEN! Any guesses on what kind of cruise it was? I had Ben snap a picture of this group of men gathered outside a little shop called "Sassy Girl." I could resist the humor!

All the pastels of the rainbow

The Crazed Musician, Conducting His Symphony With A Sea Of Birds!

2009-01-28T10:42:00.000-08:00

Beginning applause.....

The first note is played.....

The anticipation builds......

The music takes flight......

The crescendo......

Becoming one with the music.....

A true master of his craft.....

A performance to remember!

Necessity vs. Luxury in Puerto Rico

2009-01-28T08:27:00.000-08:00

Our beach Villa on Culebra island. This was an "echo friendly" facility and was said to be one of the nicest facilities on the island . Translated in English that meant 1 towel per guest, one set of sheets, and one roll of toilet paper PERIOD. NO housekeeping, restaurant, transportation, extra pillows or blankets, soap, shampoo, shower cap, no frills no fuss! We had many adventures on this beautiful little island and truly appreciated its primitive charm! What this little island lacked in amenities it more than made up for in beauty and serenity.

Our room in San Juan Puerto Rico.

The bathroom alone is larger than the entire Villa on the island! Fresh towels and sheets daily... we felt like royalty!

The view!

The Island of Culebra - Day 3 Leaving

2009-01-27T08:09:00.000-08:00

We enjoyed our stay on our little island. We even felt comfortable enough to hitch a ride to town one evening from a complete stranger. Yes, I know you would NEVER do this at home, but the island is different!

Good buy Culebra......

Kelly, sad to say goodbye!

Ben, smiling just thinking about clean towels and sheets!

Another LITTLE island on the ride back to the main land

The end!

Culebra - Day 2 Part 2

2009-01-26T08:06:00.000-08:00

By day 2 we had learned a few more "tricks" from some long time campers on the island.....Where to buy some groceries, fresh baked bread and lunch meat! We had FOOD and were feeling good!

The Island of Culebra - Day 2

2009-01-26T08:02:00.000-08:00

Culebra - Day 1 Part 2

2009-01-25T07:42:00.000-08:00

The adventure begins! Anyone who knows Ben knows he LOVES to explore any new place he visits. We "adventured" to his hearts content our first day on the island.

Benny is a great wind break from that ocean breeze!

island jetty's

the rainbow after a brief sprinkle of rain

sitting at the dock in town

the canal waterways

Susie's, our first dining adventure on the island, and our best meal we had!

Island adventure story: We were feeling pretty proud of ourselves that we'd figured out the taxi trick so quickly after our arrival. Ferry's bring people to the island 3 times per day and taxi's wait at the doc to take visitors to the famous Flamenco Beach. Our Villas were on Flamenco Beach, several hundred yards down from the public drop off. We would run to the drop off and flag down a taxi. On our first night we found a taxi and headed to town for some dinner (remember our hotel serves NO food or drink). We were dropped off in town. A restaurant recommendation from the taxi driver and we were in business! Our taxi driver failed to mention EVERYTHING in town was closed because it was Sunday. The few restaurants open on Sunday would not open for 2 more hours. We wandered around with our stomachs growling and kept telling ourselves this was an adventure. Susie's finally opened and we were waiting at the door. We had a nice meal and felt renewed. Another minor detail the taxi driver failed to mention was that once he dropped us off in town we had no way back. The taxi's stop running after the last ferry. Thank goodness the restaurant let us use their insect repellant and Ben happened to have a head lamp in his back pack. We started out on foot and an hour or so later we were back at the villa. It's all about the adventure!

The Island of Culebra - Day 1

2009-01-25T07:30:00.000-08:00

Our whirlwind adventure started Saturday Jan. 24 around 4:30 am with a morning flight to Puerto Rico via Philadelphia. We finally arrived in San Juan, Puerto Rico at 10:00 PM. After our 2 hour wait for the rental car (there was a mix up and they were out of cars!) we were finally on our way to the city of Fijardo to spend the night and catch the morning ferry to the island of Culebra.

Breakfasted and swim-suited we were ready to set sail

The ferry ride..... 1 hour 10 minutes of gentle rocking that lulled most passengers to sleep!

Who looks tired after only 4 hours of sleep?????

The blessed island welcomed us!

EYE CANDY to 2 weary travelers!

We stepped into a postcard paradise!

The Lion King

2009-01-23T06:52:00.000-08:00

This was such a fun night! Thanks to Grandma T and Papa Jim for the generous Christmas gift! When we asked the kids after the performance if they liked it, their response in unison was "NO, we LOVED it!" They've developed a true love for the theater and Ben and I couldn't be happier. They are DYING to see Phantom of The Opera! Dream big right!

Happy Birthday Kelly!

2009-01-22T05:39:00.000-08:00

Happy Birthday to the best wife and mother in the world! We Love You!

Sherriff Ellie is at it again!

2009-01-13T19:02:00.000-08:00

We never worry about forgetting "THE RULES" in our household. Ellie keeps us in check by posting them regularly. She often reminds us of rules we never knew existed. We don't know how we would function without her???

The above listed rule was posted on the guest bathroom door after she discovered the toilet was not working properly. It states:

"NO GOING INTO THE BATHROOM BECAUSE THE BATHROOM TOILET IS BROKEN, SORRY!"

Another recent posting on the playroom door:

1. PLEASE PICK UP AFTER YOURSELF IMMEDIATELY
2. PLAY TOGETHER
3. PLAY NICELY
4. NO CRYING
5. NO BAD THINGS (this is an all inclusive statement I think!)
6. NO RUINING TOYS

Now that Ellie has listed all the rules for visiting playmates I am wondering if she will actually follow them herself or just enforce them for others (her brother included!)

Rock Stars... Christmas Jam session

2008-12-25T18:23:00.000-08:00

La-La (Angela) on the drums, Daimon warming up his vocals

Cousin Jayla rocks the guitar

Cousin Isaac is impressed with everyone's music abilities

Daimon's really rockin' now!

Frosty the Snowman...

2008-12-25T18:20:00.000-08:00

We don't get this white stuff in Arizona!

A boy and his Daddy..... it's a guy thing

Ellie's determined not to let the boys have all the fun!

Thumpity, thump, thump...... Frosty's on his way

Mission accomplished..... time for a snow break

Christmas Morning - 2008

2008-12-25T18:10:00.000-08:00

Patiently waiting to see what Santa brought

First look at all the bounty!

WOW!!! A new bike, how did Santa get it to Utah?

YEAH!! Christmas is a kids dream come true!

SPAM??? Don't ask, it's a boyhood nostalgia thing!

Can you guess what Hayden's favorite movie is?

"Bah humbug, go suck a pickle" A Poppy surprise for Daimon!

"Go fish" A poppy surprise for Ellie!

La-La found the perfect present for Audrey

Nana is thrilled to have the grandkids for Christmas!

Christmas Eve - 2008

2008-12-24T17:51:00.000-08:00

Jayla and Daimon bringin' down the house!

Kelly and baby Carston, can I keep him?

Hayden wanted to wear his stocking

The Browns forgot their stockings at home, thanks Poppy for lending us your snow socks!

Isaac and Daimon are feelin' the love

Present Game, it's tradition

2008-12-24T17:45:00.000-08:00

OOOHHH AAAHH! mouthwash for Ellie

Daimon will keep warm with his cocoa

Jayla's thrilled with the mustard platter

WOW!! Kelly won flushable wipes

Benny won scented lotion, don't worry Ellie took it off his hands ASAP!

The gang!

Celebrate with a Lunch Date!

2008-12-19T10:23:00.000-08:00

To celebrate our first official day of Christmas break the kids and I went to lunch and did some shopping. Ellie strikes a pose and Daimon is rockin' it in my camo hat! These kids are so much fun!

This is Neither "Hair" Nor There but....We Love Our Stylists

2008-12-18T10:21:00.000-08:00

After our last day of school we headed to the salon for hair cuts. The kids LOVE going to the salon because they love the head massage they get when their hair is washed. Like any woman Ellie loves having her hair styled and being fussed over. Of course there is one more reason Ellie loves the salon..... BRANDI! The kids talk Brandi and Suzanne's ear off and they are so gracious to let them! We LOVE our stylists!

Class Christmas Parties

2008-12-18T10:20:00.000-08:00

I got to volunteer for both kids class parties. Both classes did several stations where the kids did a variety of activities. Ellie's class made pudding, fruit pies, an ornament, and decorated cookies. They also had snacks and watched a movie. Daimon's class made cinnamon scented ornaments, book marks, decorated cookies, pinned the nose on rudolph, made snow flakes and had a book exchange. Both kids thoroughly enjoyed their festivities and we are all glad it's now winter break!

Ellie's BFF, Or So She Wishes!

2008-12-15T10:15:00.000-08:00

Meet Brandi, Ellie's current idol! Brandi is ALMOST related to us. She is the niece of my brother in law Tim Raynond (did you follow that?). We have known her since she was little. She used to babysit Daimon and Ellie when they were little. Her mom is our hair stylist. Now you know Brandi too! She is kind enough to let Ellie believe she's her "playmate". For FHE the Brown and Raymond clan met up at a local hospital to donate toys and books to the children's unit. We then went to Mama (Nancy) Raymonds house for hot chocoate and cinnamon rolls. Ellie did not leave Brandi's side the whole night..... until Brandi's boyfriend showed up, darn those boyfriends!

Tempe Town Lake Light Parade

2008-12-13T10:14:00.000-08:00

We got together with our Spratley family for a night of festivities and to enjoy the light parade at Tempe Town Lake. It was chilly for Arizona but a good time was had by all. The kids rode in the back of the truck on the way to the lake and sang Christmas caroll's, very festive! We went back to G & G's after and had hot cocoa and doughnuts! Thanks uncle Jon for making a doughnut run!

All Dressed Up With Somewhere To Go, Ben's Work Christmas Dinner!

2008-12-12T10:05:00.000-08:00

The stigma of work Christmas parties does not hold true for Ben's annual Christmas dinner. We look forward to it every year. It's hosted at our favorite restaurant Maestro's Ocean Club. It's fun to dress up and enjoy a night out at a fancy restaurant with my favorite guy.... isn't he handsome!

Kayaking with the ladies!

2008-12-05T10:31:00.000-08:00

Kayaking on the Salt River with the ladies. Cara, Liz, Lisa and Jen all joined in the fun. "The Nuggett" aka Zane was the token male for the outing. Lisa was getting ahead and he kept telling her "mom, wait for all my ladies". The scenery was something to behold. We saw an eagles nest but unfortunately no eagle. However fate shined on us and the wild mustangs ran across the river right in front of us.... breathtaking! Thanks to Jen for brining along your camera and snapping some shots!

Daimon's School Singing Performance

2008-12-02T11:36:00.000-08:00

Daimon did a wonderful job and we are very proud of him.

They finally talked us into it...Please...Please...

2008-12-01T11:43:00.000-08:00

Kelly always says "I just remember that holidays were a lot more fun as a kid." I guess that is because as a kid you don't realize how much work goes into make the holidays fun for the kids.....Merry Christmas!

Brown & Dike Family Christmas Party

2008-11-29T12:03:00.000-08:00

Thank go to Chad and Ann Marie for being brave enough to host us all. We all had a wonderful time.

Thanksgiving

2008-11-27T12:11:00.000-08:00

FASHION FORWARD.... RUNWAY WORTHY!

2008-11-24T06:30:00.000-08:00

These are the latest sketches from our future fashion designer. Ellie whipped these beauties out in a matter of minutes during church on Sunday. I loved her attention to detail and use of patterns and color. If you need a stylist she's available!

San Tan Hike

2008-11-13T20:52:00.001-08:00

To enjoy everyone being home together on Veterans Day, we decided to hike the San Tan Mountains.

Daimon was lagging behind us more that usual on our hike. We finally discovered the reason....it's difficult to hike with pockets full of rocks!

A birds eye view from the tippy, top.

The sun sets...... a beautiful day

Life is GOOD!

Last Soccer Game of the Season

2008-11-08T17:06:00.000-08:00

Trophy + Cupcake = Childhood Bliss
Daimons bud's: Parker, Gavin, Sam, Dallin, Collin, Daimon

Fall Festival

2008-11-07T17:16:00.000-08:00

Every year the kids school does a big carnival for their one and only fundraising event. Daimon hit the target in the dunk booth and is was all water from there!

Ellie shot down the slide like a rocket

The Heuer clan joined in the fun. Thanks Timmy for coming along with us! Kelly, The Nugget aka: Zane, Zoe, Ellie and Daimon

Daimon belted out a song he's never heard before at the Karaoke booth like he'd been singing it all his life

Getty-up Cowboys and Cowgirls

Morning Musings.....

2008-11-07T07:27:00.000-08:00

One of the best things about children..... you never know what they're going to say!

One of the fearful things about children.... you never know what they're going to say!

This was the conversation this morning during our car ride to school. It might give you an idea of the random thoughts that pass through these brilliant young minds!

Daimon: "Mom, What does indigenous mean?"
Mom: "It means it's something native to the region it's in. Like a cactus is indigenous to Arizona."
Daimon: "Oh, I get it now."

On almost a daily basis Daimon asks me the meaning of a new word he's heard. I usually have to give him all the definitions of the word and examples to satisfy his mind.

Daimon: "Mom, why do you have a teenage body?"
Mom: (laughing) ""what do you mean?"
Daimon: "I mean, you look like an 18 year old"
Mom: (smiling from ear to ear) "Oh, I wasn't aware of that"
Daimon: "Yep, you do, now you know"

Is this kid trying to score brownie points.....either way it worked. I could live a month on that compliment, extra dessert for him tonight!

Daimon: "Mom, I've never slipped on a banana peel!"
Mom: "Oh really?, that's great!"
Ellie: "Mom, can you really slip on a banana peel?"
Mom: "Well I guess you COULD, but it's not very likely"
Ellie: "See Daimon, I told you!"

Ellie: "Daimon, guess who's going to be President?"
Daimon: "Ellie, I don't want to talk about it!"
Ellie: "Just tell me if you know"
Daimon: "Yes I know, it's Barack Obama"
Ellie: "Yes, that's right and he's with the Democratic Party..... pause.... John McCain.... pause...... he's with the Republican Party...... pause..... Well I guess it's not horrible that Barack Obama won, we'll just have to be REALLY careful with all our money. I guess that's not too bad, it doesn't mean he's a bad person."
Mom: "No, he's not a bad person at all. I am sure he is a very nice person. Remember we need to make the best of every situation even if it's not exactly what we want."

With the recent election, Ellie is obsessing about politics AGAIN! The way these kids talk you'd think Ben and I are raving polititions and have frequent and fervent conversations about politics! I dont' know where this little girl comes from, but I can't wait to see where she's going!

I love these morning conversations. They always give me something to laugh about as I go about my day. It's these little things I will treasure for a lifetime! I LOVE THESE KIDS!

Brigham's In The House!!!

2008-11-07T07:13:00.000-08:00

Let me start by saying YES, I am AWARE Ben HAD more than one wife....It takes a real man to handle more than one. Besides, it 's really great to have extra hands to help with cooking, housework, and kids. HA, HA! On a serious note, every year Ben and I go to a neighborhood Halloween party. This year I happened to be in Utah. I didn't want Benny to miss out on all the fun so I divised a plan. Some of my friends husbands were unable to attend the party also, so we came up with the idea of Brigham Young and his wives for a costume. They were a big hit and won best couple!

Brigham and his adoring wives.... Cara and Lisa

Cara and Lisa spar for some of Brighams undivided attention

Brigham must have set those wives straight with a stern talking to. They have regained their pioneer poise.

Halloween 2008

2008-10-31T19:33:00.000-07:00

Look at these two Demon Darlings!

Watch out Edward, there's a new Dashing Vampire in the town!

This "Skele-rocker Girl" has style and grace!

This is one Motley Crew! Colten, Daimon, Ellie, baby Ely, Raylynn

WHERE HAS OCTOBER GONE???

2008-10-31T09:53:00.000-07:00

Life has been so busy the blogging has been put on the back burner for October. Let me touch on the highlights!

Daimon and Ellie went camping with Grandpa and Grandma Spratley. They caught 3 rainbow trout (thanks grandma and grandpa for the fishing poles). Grandpa cleaned them and had them ready in a bag, all I had to do was the cooking.

Kelly got a new calling..... Young Women's Miamaid Advisor. I am excited to be working with the youth. This is my first time in YW since I was one myself! They are an amazing group of girls and I can't wait to get to know them better.

Ben has nearly completed his BIG moving project at work and they are officially in "The New Building." (since Ben was back and forth between two buildings these past few months we started referring to them as "The New" and "The Old" building so I would know which location he was at). I am SO PROUD of Ben and his hard work and success in this project. It was such a long and involved process and he deserves much praise for his capabilities! I am ecstatic to have his time all to myself and the kids again...... except during normal business hours!

Kelly, Daimon and Ellie flew to Utah for our cousin Tara's wedding (In the rush of packing I forgot the camera, this is what happens when Benny doesn't travel with us!) We saw tons of immediate and extended family(SO FUN!), attended Hayden's 3rd birthday party, had lunch at Nana's school, saw the witches at Gardner Village, went to the pumpkin patch with Auntie Dana, Uncle Ricky, Hayden and baby Carston, met Auntie Emily's new man Charles, and of course....the wedding and reception. Ellie was a flower girl and looked like a princess complete with tiara. She performed a dance at the reception with the bridesmaids and was absolutely adorable. She was very brave to perform in front of so many people.... she only learned the dance the night before! Daimon had a surprise performance of his own. After 20 minutes of cajoling, begging and pleading our cousin Ben Bloomfield finally convinced Daimon to serenade the crowd with some Phantom of The Opera. He stood Daimon up on a table and Daimon belted it out with his eyes closed so he wouldn't be too embarrased! Nana paid Daimon and Ellie to help with some jobs and Poppy played "The Money Game" with them, each came home with a stash of cash. This came in handy for Daimon, he chose to spend $2.00 of his money on a can of cranberry juice on the plane. I think this is "SKYWAY ROBBERY"! They already charge $15.00 per checked bag and now you don't even get a free beverage? At least the flight attendant slipped the kids a free granola bar. It was so fun to see all the family. Thanks Auntie Audrey for letting us bunk with you and having the house sparkling!

That's October in a nut shell. Tonight is the big night..... HALLOWEEN! I can't wait to see Daimon and Ellie in their costumes!