The Brown Family

A Sun Devil, Perhaps?

2012-01-25T18:46:00.000-08:00

We were so excited to see this in our mail today...

GO CASSIDY!

Congratulations on your admission into Arizona State University’s College of Nursing and Health Innovation!

As a “direct admission” student to our Traditional Pre-licensure Clinical Nursing Program, you have the honor of being hand selected based on your prior academic and personal achievements leading up to this point. With this type of admission, you will receive a guaranteed space in our nursing program so long as the Continuing Eligibility Criteria is maintained during your time at ASU. We welcome you to our college and are excited for you to begin your journey with us this fall!

SCHOLARSHIP TO ASU....check

ACCEPTED INTO THE NURSING PROGRAM....check

WHAT TO DO?...time will tell, but ASU is looking good!

All of her hard work

and years of dedicated study are defintely paying off!

(this was a rare occurance, thus the picture!)

Can hardly wait to see what the future holds for this girl!

Remembering Grandpa Brown

2012-01-15T09:54:00.000-08:00

Nine years ago, January 13, 2003, we lost our Grandpa Brown.

Life has marched on and children have grown,

but the memory of Grandpa Brown will always remain.

We rode our bikes to the cemetary

to pay tribute to him, his life and legacy.

2011 in Review

2012-01-07T08:57:00.000-08:00

2011 was a year of wonderful and memorable milestones!

Brett and Tia became engaged on January 27th!

Haley began working for Garn and Mason Orthdontics as an assistant

and is loving every minute of it

Clark played on the freshman basketball team.

He was also a member of the last 9th grade class to attend Poston Jr. High.

Haley and Cassidy both attended Prom in April

May was chock full of crazy goodness...

Brett and Tia were sealed on May 13th in the Mesa Arizona Temple

by Grandpa Clark!

and

Haley graduated from Mountain View Highschool on May 26th!

We survived our Stake Pioneer Trek in June.

(I can now check that off the bucket list!)

Celebrated 25 years of wedded bliss on June 7th!

Clark and Bennett had the time of their lives at basketball camp in Prescott.

They were both awarded "The Hustler" award for their age groups.

Bennett participated in Swim Team

Cassidy loved hanging out in Provo with the cousins and Grandpa and Grandma
and enjoyed the 4th of July celebrations

We enjoyed a quick get away to La Jolla the end of July

Katie, one of Haley's best friends, had the missionary discussions

in our home and then Curt baptized her on August 16th

Endured some brutally hot football games during September,
but it was all worth it to see Clark in action.

He was named MVP for the team!

Haley kept us entertained coming out of the anthesia
after having her wisdom teeth pulled in September

Bennett tore it up on the basketball court wearing #31 for the Poston Panthers!

Cassidy had a busy couple of months working on homecoming

and then had a blast at the dance with all of her friends!

Clark played in his first varsity football game AND SCORED A TOUCHDOWN!

(Cassidy said she was famous after that game for just being Clark's sister!)

Haley got all decked out to go to the Taylor Swift concert in October

Cassidy planned, organized and attended Winter Formal

and did a fabulous job at all of it!

Cassidy and Clark attended Winter Formal
This was Clark's first school dance and he had a blast with date, Ashlynn

Bennett got his braces off after almost 3 years!

Bennett turned 14 in December and was ordained to the office of teacher.

(Clark turned 16 in August and was ordained a Priest)

Bennett FINALLY got a DOG!

A goldendoodle named Echo.

Can hardly wait to see what 2012 has in store for the Brown Family!

Out with the Old...

2011-12-31T20:11:00.000-08:00

The past few years we have celebrated New Year's Eve

eating Chinese food at Golden Gate Restaurant.

This year was no exception!

We started early so the kids would not miss out on any

of their planned activities!

Here's to a great 2012!

(and 8:30am church tomorrow! Wish us luck!)

Glimpses of Christmas

2011-12-31T20:05:00.000-08:00

We enjoyed every bit of our Christmas celebration.

We spent Christmas Eve with the extended Clark Family,

where ET & Kristin hosted a delicious dinner and organized the program.

(We missed Brett and Tia who were celebrating with the Allred Family

before Brett's parents leave to Chile for two years)

The kids did a great job re-enacting the Nativity.

Haley and Kimberly were the narrators

Cassidy was just one of several who played the piano as we sang Christmas Carols.

Grandma and Grandpa not only shared their testimonies and experiences of

Christmases past, but conducted the evening's events.

Clark was the donkey for Mary (Abby) and Joseph (Cash)

Sam, Katie, and Hailey were the glorious angels

Max, Joey and Matthew were the awe-struck shepherds

We played the traditional Christmas Gift Exchange Game.

Grandma and Grandpa opened their Christmas Gift from the family.

A photo book entitled "Our Grandchildren" with a page of pictures of each grandchild

and expressions of why they love Grandma and Grandpa.

It turned out beautifully!

The next morning, after attending church, we went to visit Great Grandpa Breinholt.

Christmas night we enjoyed a yummy dinner at Grandpa & Grandma Clark's.

We never get tired of spending time with our extended family and

celebrating the greatest of all gifts...the birth of our Savior!

Merry Christmas!

2011-12-25T08:47:00.000-08:00

Wishing you a wonderful Holiday Season!

To see our family's past Christmas cards go here.

Christmas Caroling...Brown Style!

2011-12-24T15:12:00.000-08:00

Every December 23rd is the Brown Family Christmas Party.

This year we combined the annual Family Dinner Party with our Caroling Party.

Grandma and Mel generously paid to have dinner catered as their

Christmas gift to both the Brown and Stradling Families.

A FABULOUS idea, in my book!

Carolina's Green Chili Burritos, rice, beans, chips and salsa were the menu for the evening.

Brian and Curt manned the cheese crisp station for the little kids.

We had seating for almost 100 and every seat was filled!

After dinner, we loaded up Chuck's semi-truck with a huge trailer.

Caleb, Clark, Cassidy

Bennett and Naaman were our skaters...

they would skate ahead of the trailer and ring doorbells,

so by the time the truck drove by, people were at their doors.

our awesome driver, Ron

(the rig is so big that only special licensed drivers can drive it)

the whole gang singing, visiting,

and just waiting for the hot chocolate and donuts after the cold ride!

Here's the guy who helped haul the hay for the trailer,

ordered and picked up the food,

helped with the song playlist and sound equipment,

and a gazillion other little details to pull this night together.

We could not have done it with out Clint and Debbie and their family

who spear headed this great party!

The MVPs of the night...Grandma and Mel

Brett, Tia and Breckyn

Isaac and Cassidy

Our main caroling destination was to Great Grandpa Breinholt's home.

We brought him outside to sing to him and let him see his posterity.

Love that so many of Curt's siblings could be there.

We missed Chawna and Celeste!

LOVE this picture!

Until next year...

Whew!

2011-12-21T20:09:00.000-08:00

We have 6 of the 8 birthdays in our family

between November 13 and December 17.

I like to think I planned it that way!

(Thank you Clark and Brett for being born in August and October!)

Cassidy turned 18 in mid November.

For 3 weeks each year Haley and Cassidy are the same age.

(I planned that, too!)

Curt was actually born on November 28, Thanksgiving day a loooooong time ago!

5 candles for ALMOST 5 decades! yikes!

Bennett joined our family 14 years ago, December 6th.

Haley turned 19 on December 10th and is going to live up her last year as a teenager!

Hang on because I thought she had already lived up her teen years!

Curt and I took Tia to lunch on her birthday, December 12th.

No candle blowing picture for Tia...I'm sure Brett took care of that!

And me, by the time my birthday rolls around on December 17th,
we are done with birthday cake.

Curt unfortunately was sick on my birthday, so I'm going to take a raincheck on

the promised German Chocolate cake with coconut pecan frosting

that will officially mark the end of the birthday season at the Brown abode.

Bennett's Big Week!

2011-12-14T15:23:00.000-08:00

Sunday, December 11th,

Bennett was ordained a teacher.

It was a special day for him and our family.

(We missed Brett, Tia and Haley who all had responsibilites
in their own wards that conflicted with the ordination and
Mel and Grandma Charlene, who was sick from chemo)

Thanks to Grandpa and Grandma for always supporting our family!

All these awesome guys!

Clark was able to stand in the circle for Bennett's ordination...

another family first!

And to top it all off,

Bennett gets to come home to this little guy every day!

There is something rather endearing seeing a boy with his

LONG AWAITED DOG!

Then on Monday, December 12th, the big day!

Just to reminisce for a moment...

This was Bennett on his first day of braces in January 2009.

After 35 long months of palate expanders, adjustments, rubber bands,

wisdom teeth extractions, and patiently waitng for 12 year molars to grow...

Bennett got his braces off!

Bennett before with the BEST ASSISTANT in the office...Haley!

They are almost off!

Yucky impressions for the retainers

and AFTER!!!!

I couldn't believe how much older he looked!

One happy boy! (not to mention cute!)

Ice, Ice Baby - Winter Formal 2011

2011-12-08T12:59:00.000-08:00

Winter Formal was held this past weekend.

Not only was the theme "Ice, Ice, Baby", but the weather was frigid by AZ standards!

Ashlynn took Clark and they had a blast!

Their day activity was held last week at DeWitt Farms in Lehi.

The couples competed in different activities...Clark & Ashlynn won the egg toss.

So cute in their matching shirts!

As Senior Class President, Cassidy was responsible for Winter Formal...

theme, decorations, refreshments, DJ, etc.

She started planning months ago and did an awesome job on a shoestring budget.

The center pieces were twigs that she spray painted silver and then hung snowflakes on

She assigned, in advance, the other student council members

to make a hundred or so big tissue paper balls.

She was super organized and had each student assigned to a different section to decorate.

These guys did a fabulous job hanging the balls from fishing line

attached to the basketball hoops that ran the length of the gym.

The entrance to the gym...

Student Council already had the trees, she just added lots of white tulle to add fullness

Curt and I were so impressed with how well these kids worked together.

They had the gym set up and decorated in two hours...a RECORD for sure!

The giant snowflakes were taped to the tarp covered bleachers.

Good job, Cassidy!! Way to get the job done!

Cassidy and Clark before the dance

Cassidy and date David...don't you love the foot and a half height difference!

Clark was lucky enough to go to his first dance with Ashlynn

Cassidy and Katie with their darling friends

Clark's entire group!

Now the mad dash to ask to Sadie Hawkins in February!

Last night Cassidy asked her date and Clark was asked

by two different girls within a matter of 45 minutes.

Let the craziness continue!

18 Seconds of Awesome!

2011-12-02T18:37:00.000-08:00

Since it is basketball season once again, I thought I would share this exciting moment...

In a basketball game two years ago, Clark's team was trailing by two points. With just seconds left in the tournament game, Clark made this unbelievable shot to win the game at the buzzer!

Click here to watch Clark's "Shot Heard 'Round the World".

Giving Thanks

2011-11-24T20:15:00.000-08:00

Thanksgiving this year was with the Brown's.

Clark started the morning running the 10K Turkey Trot.

(sorry, no pics)

Grandma Charlene and Mel were awesome hosts!

The food never disappoints!

Curt claimed himself the winner of the "Mashed Potatoes War"!

Brett & Tia

Great Grandpa Breinholt could not wait to get his food!

He was eating before we even got him pushed up to the table.

Clark not really appreciating my picture taking!

The cute teenage girls!

Curt, Celeste, Matt, Dan & Courtney

Ally, Kinzie, and Madison

Just a few of the adorable GREAT GRANDKIDS!

The fabulous host and hostess!

These two are amazing...Grandma had just had a round of chemo a few days before Thanksgiving.

She looked wonderful and when I asked her how she was feeling,

she said "a little bit awesome".

Although not feeling well, she insisted on having Thanksgiving and Mel is always so supportive

of Grandma and our entire family!

We love them both!

Celeste and Bennett plotting their strategy for the Black Friday shopping!

They scored some great deals at Walmart during the wee morning hours.

the turkey coma

Yummy, yummy pie!

Hot off the Press!

2011-11-22T23:41:00.000-08:00

I have to brag...

My brother David has just had his first book published!

It is AWESOME!

To me a book is good if it keeps me entertained.

A book is GREAT if I find myself thinking about it days after I have finished reading it.

This book did just that...and then some.

It is clever, laugh out loud funny, tender, and real.

I COULDN'T BE MORE PROUD!

Click here to read an interview with the author, David Clark

Click here, here, or here to order your copy.

and if you don't believe me...here are a few reviews:

"Clark vividly captures the perils and joys of early adolescence in the 1980s.

By turns heartbreaking and hilarious, this novel is a meditation on the meaning of sacrifice

and the transforming responsibility of familial love."

—Angela Hallstrom, author of Bound on Earth

"Clark perfectly captures the torture and hilarity of navigating adolescence

and the perpetual change of family ties. Simply beautiful."

—Bridget Verhaaren, cofounder, theliteratemother.org

"Funny, poignant, and hopeful. Clark takes Mormon literary fiction another big step forward."

—Richard Cracroft, emeritus professor of English, BYU

Never Say Never

2011-11-17T13:43:00.000-08:00

You would think after all this time that I would learn...

I said I would NEVER have a December baby...I had 3!

I said I would NEVER have babies less than a year apart...

Haley and Cassidy are 11 months apart!

I said we would NEVER have a dog...and then this child came along!

He loved every kind of animal!

So, we bought him the giant bucket of plastic animals to play with.

We subscribed to Kids National Geographic.

We watched Animal Planet and every special on PBS that referenced wildlife.

We bought the documentary "Planet Earth" and watched all the animal sequences.

We read "Where the Red Fern Grows" and he couldn't understand why I cried.

But none of it was enough!

So, we let him play with the neighbor's puppies.

We told him to enjoy the baby chicks in his Kindergarten class.

We let him participate in a rodeo.

We took him to the ranch...several times.

He was chosen to hold the lamb in the Easter Pageant,

STILL...it just wasn't enough and I was getting tired!

So, we let him get chickens,

and more chickens,

and a tortise named Ned.

He started a little business taking care of the neighbor's dogs while they were out of town.

He lovingly cared for Oreo, Zeus, Sundance, Barkley, Red Dog and Winston.

But, it still wasn't enough...and I am now OLD AND TIRED!

So, after hours and hours of research, begging and bartering,

WE HAVE A DOG!!!!

an 11 week old Goldendoodle named ECHO...

and this boy couldn't be happier!

Haley encouraged and paid for this little guy

because this boy NEEDED a dog!

Thanks, Haley for your love and generosity!

11.13.11

2011-11-13T08:58:00.000-08:00

April 1993 was a surreal month.

Tia was 3, Haley was 4 months old, Curt had lost his job, and I was expecting baby #3.

How had my life gotten so completely out of control?

I remember lying in my hospital bed,

hooked up to IVs due to my severe dehydration and nausea,

wondering how the heck I was going to survive.

And then on November 13, 1993 this angel was born...

6 lbs 12 oz of blonde, blue-eyed perfection!

We brought Cassidy home from the hospital all bundled up in pink,

and as she slept, we tried to teach Haley how to take her first steps.

Cassidy was a patient, calm baby.

She never demanded attention, unless she was hungry.

She was exactly what I needed as I tried to figure out how to be a mom to my 3 girls.

And now, 18 years later...not much has changed.

I am still trying to figure out how to be a mom,

and she just does her thing, whether it is homework, student council responsibilities,

church callings, reading her scriptures, memorizing the "Family Proclamation",

practicing the piano, completing personal progress, fulfilling her service hours,
applying for colleges, and the list goes on and on.

There is not much I have had to teach her during her life.

She was born obedient and trusting and my job has been to watch and learn from her.

Happy, Happy Birthday, Cassidy!

We love you more than you know!

Happy Birthday!

2011-11-02T23:04:00.000-07:00

Happy, Happy Birthday, Emily!!!!

Hope you had a fabulous 16th Birthday!

Thanks for always keeping Clark in line...

it is much appreciated!

Love,

The Brown Family

October 2011

2011-10-31T19:31:00.000-07:00

Haley and Skyler attended the Taylor Swift concert

and LOVED it!

Gotta love their neon accessories, red lips and the DIY T-shirts!

Clark played his final JV football game.

He was pulled up to varsity for their final game.

He played awesome and scored his first varsity touchdown!

During the varsity game he wore #5 and it wasn't until the last quarter of the game that the announcers realized they had been calling him Kevin Nelson, a 5'11", 190 lb senior all night.

We thought it was hilarious and had a few good laughs!

Cassidy said she was famous after Clark's stellar performance during the varsity game!

He caught 6 passes for 125 yards and led the team in receiving.

Brett turned the big 25!

He and Tia spent his birthday weekend in Sedona at a little bed and breakfast
and then joined us Sunday night for his birthday dinner
topped off with German Chocolate cake!

Bennett dressed up as a nerd for Halloween and the girls couldn't keep their hands off of him!

We enjoyed our traditional dinner of goulosh in pumpkin bread bowls

at Grandpa and Grandma Clark's!

Always a Warrior

2011-09-24T21:32:00.000-07:00

Westwood High School celebrated 50 years last night at their Homecoming Game.

In commemoration of the historic event, each decade of classes

was invited to make a float for the Homecoming parade and half-time show.

The 70's and 80's got together and came up with this great float...

"Cruisin' back through Time"

As a 1982 graduate of Westwood, Curt was asked (actually cajoled)

into dressing up as Bruce Springsteen for their float.

He was in the company of Elton John (Scott Jackson),

John Travolta (Keith Deering), and Michael Jackson (Greg Arnett not shown).

Each singer danced to their song that was blasted from the float.

Bruce's was "Born in the USA"

The crowds along the parade route.

Gotta love that Westwood is steeped in tradition and spirit!

The float looked awesome and the crowd loved it!

Even the Elders were impressed!

50 years is a big deal and all the news stations were there for the historic celebration!

Cassidy came to offer moral support, but she couldn't let her Toro pride go!

At the half-time show...

Curt has always said that his blood runs deep orange...

and he proved it last night!

Congratulations Warriors!

Homecoming 2011

2011-09-18T16:01:00.000-07:00

What a crazy, busy week this has been!

Cassidy has been up to her eyeballs in homecoming festivities,

but somehow she manages to keep everything in balance.

The weekend kicked off with the Homcoming parade.

The class floats, club floats, royalty procession, cheer and band

all weave through the neighborhood, prior to the big game.

The theme was "At the Hop" and the senior class opted

to forego the paper mache decor for their float,

and instead spent the money on "In-N-Out" Burgers

for those riding on the float!

Not a bad idea, but no 1st place prize, either!

Curt made sure to collect plenty of candy for Bennett

who was unable to attend the parade because of basketball practice.

Ally, Cassidy and Katie cheering on the Toro football team!

So fun that all the Arizona highschool cousins attend the same school!

Running around the track at half-time with their Senior banner

It was a special treat to have Jacob, Austin and Isaac
be the crown bearers for the royalty!

Jen looks awesome as the soon to be mom of identical twins due in April!
Can hardly wait to find out if they will be boys or girls!

(Grandbabies #40 & #41 for the Browns!)

Isaac and Jacob took their jobs very seriously!

Crowning the Homecoming King

Cassidy all ready to go to the dance!

Love that Grandma makes the rounds to see the girls before

they are picked up by their dates.

Cassidy loves this traditional pose!
The boys...not so much!

Haley sending off the little sis!

Sure do love this beauty!

Cassidy and date Kendall

Lookin' Good!

Nick, Cassidy & Katie at the dance

After the dance, Cassidy's group went to the ice rink
to play Broom Hockey and had a blast!
Cassidy with cousin Aubree!

Cassidy had a great time with Kendall and we are so appreciative
of polite young men who treat our girls so well!

Panther Basketball

2011-09-16T16:07:00.000-07:00

I never could have imagined that I would love

watching my kids play sports as much as I do.

I actually look forward to their games.

We have had fun over the years watching the girls participate in

softball, tennis, badminton and track.

Now the sports focus is all on the boys.

Bennett is playing on the 8th Grade Basketball Team and

once again I am loving every minute of it!

He is an aggressive defensive player and is GOOD at stealing the ball!

He doesn't shoot the ball much, but when he does, watch out!

Last night he made a beautiful 3 pointer!

He was so excited to get jersey #31,

just like his older brother!

GO #31!

No Fun!

2011-09-09T14:19:00.000-07:00

Poor Haley!

She had her wisdom teeth out this morning.

She was pretty hilarious coming out of the anthesia

and she has been sending out weird texts and pictures

to all her friends.

Hang in there, sweet girl!

Toro Tuff!

2011-09-06T05:45:00.000-07:00

In July, Clark and all the other football players,

were required to attend "Toro Camp" in Williams

for an intensive week of training and conditioning.

(Clark is in the center in blue)

There was a lot of running...

"Toro Hill" is notorious for its steep, steady

and unrelentless climb.

Practices were held all day and well into the evening

with only a few breaks for meals.

Clark getting to know the new Varsity Head Coach

Misery loves company!

Good thing there were a lot of friends at Camp, too!

Chase and Clark

Getting some extra help for his back from the trainer

All that hard work and practice finally paid off.

Game Day--September 1st

Heat advisories had been in effect all week.

Game time temp was brutal...

and that is without pads and helmet!

#31 again

same as last year for football and basketball

Being congratulated for making the first

Toro touch down of the season!

(MV beat Desert Ridge 28 to 20)

Cassidy does a great job of multi-tasking...

Spanish homework as she watches the game.

After the game celebration with friends

Thanks to all those who braved the heat

to come cheer on Clark and the Toros!

(Thanks also to David, Robin & Tia who came but weren't in the picture)

Go Toros!

Love, Love, Love!

2011-08-29T06:44:00.000-07:00

We LOVE these two,

We LOVED this day,

and

We LOVE all those who supported

Brett and Tia on their perfect day!

Coming out of the temple...

it was a bit warm and the sun was bright,

plus we have to have a picture of Tia with her eyes closed...

it's tradition!

The whole gang!

Tia and Cecily have grown up together,

been in the same ward,

and were married within a day of each other.

So fun to see them together

in their wedding dresses at the temple!

Mr. & Mrs. Allred

I love this picture!

It just makes me smile.

I'm such a lucky girl to have this guy!

The wonderful grandparents

The Allred Family

What an impressive group...

8 children + spouses

and 24 grandchildren

Brett's Parents...Calvin & Susan

Brett with his siblings

Tia loved inheriting 24 nieces and nephews!

Grandpa & Grandma Clark with the grandkids

The beautiful and tasty candy station!

It is hard to see in this picture,

but the framed photograph of

Brett & Tia licking a giant sucker

is sooo cute!

The beverage station...

The food table was amazing!

Not only was the food delicious, but it looked so beautiful!

The floral arrangements were stunning!

The crepe station was Brett's request...

sadly he didn't even get one,

but everyone said they were delish!

This picture is priceless!

So glad cousin Abbey caught the boquet!

The sparkler send off!

It could not have been a more perfect evening!

Thanks to all those who celebrated with us!

Happy Birthday, Clark

2011-08-25T06:43:00.000-07:00

I don't know where the time has gone...

We went from this chunky 8lb 6oz

long awaited beautiful baby boy...

to a total Daddy's boy....

to a toddler that had to learn the pecking order

in a house full of girls...

to a wonderful big brother...

to a future missionary...

to a fun loving kid....

to a reluctant cowboy...

to an incredible athlete...

to a teenager with a quick wit and a great sense of humor...

to a growing boy that can and will sleep anywhere...

to a worthy priesthood holder...

to an awesome son...

Who is now 16 YEARS OLD!!!

I'm just a LITTLE weepy as I think about

HOW MUCH I LOVE THIS GUY!

HAPPY, HAPPY BIRTHDAY CLARK!

Katie's Baptism

2011-08-23T10:07:00.000-07:00

These two girls have been friends...best friends

for most of their young lives.

Katie and her family live just up the street

and she and Haley have attended

Hawthorne, Poston, and Mt. View together,

often in many of the same classes.

So, it was a huge honor, and not really a surprise,

when a couple of week's after her 18th birthday,

Katie asked if she could have the
missionary discussions in our home.

These girls were at every discussion and it was

extra special to have President Robinson join us!

Elder Shafer (from SLC) and Elder Gomez (from Argentina)

did a great job teaching Katie the discussions in record time.

(There wasn't much that she didn't already know!)

Curt was honored to be invited to baptize and confirm Katie.

We were all so happy that Katie's dad and sister
were able to attend her baptism!

And just a few of the 150 friends who supported Katie on her special day!

The First Day of School

2011-08-19T11:39:00.000-07:00

My Senior Girl!

No worries about what to wear...

Cassidy had to wear her "Toro Link" shirt on the first day,

as she helped pass out schedules and direct

the lost and confused new freshman and sophomores.

When my girls started at Mountain View,

by the time the first day of school rolled around,

they had walked their schedule multiple times.

Not this bad boy! He would figure it out the day of!

Being late to class and/or lost was not a concern.

Clark-sophomore

With the 9th graders beginning at Mountain View for the first time,

Bennett is the big man on campus this year at Poston.

8th grade

Hard to believe that summer is over

and it is back to the grind!

The Dog Whisperer

2011-08-08T11:19:00.000-07:00

Bennett LOVES animals, especially dogs!

(I do not!)

He knows all the dogs in the neighborhood

by name and where they live.

A while back he made up flyers to distribute to friends

informing them of his availability to walk and care for

their dogs when they are out of town.

He has loved taking care of Oreo, Red Dog, Sundance, and Zeus.

Several weeks ago, our neighbors, Bill and Rhonda,

requested Bennett's services.

They were both undergoing knee replacement surgeries

within a month of each other

and needed someone to walk Winston several miles a day.

Bennett was the guy!

He dutifully walked Winston each morning and evening.

Some days he would run with him,

other days he would lace up his rollerblades,

and occasionally Winston would cop an attitude

and refuse exercise of any kind!

Not only did Bennett make some extra money,

but he also talked to Rhonda about the church

and invited her to take the discussions

from the missionaries at our home.

Although, she respectfully declined,

it was a great experience for Bennett.

He is now saving his hard earned money to buy some stocks!

Bennett and Winston

The La Jolla Bachelor Pad

2011-07-31T11:00:00.000-07:00

Towards the end of July, we made a quick trip to La Jolla

to move some of my brother's belongings

into this great little apartment across the street from the beach.

(He is working temporarily in Cali and commutes home to Mesa on the weekends).

Not ideal for him and his family,

but it made for a great escape for us!

We had the u-haul unloaded and things situated

within a couple of hours.

We spent the next day and a half on the beach!

It is hard for us Arizonians to deal with below 80 degree weather,

especially when it is overcast and breezy!

We did a lot of reading.

Haley LOVES her Kindle and read "The Help".

I read "Jane Eyre" which is one of my all time favorites.

The boys loved boogie boarding!

Thanks, David for letting us use your Bachelor Pad!

Summer So Far

2011-07-12T23:09:00.000-07:00

Bennett officially kicked off the start of summer

at the annual neighborhood party

on the last day of school.

It wouldn't be summer without participating

in swim team at Kino Junior High.

Matthew and Bennett after the Freestyle Meet

Haley began working full-time at

Garn and Mason Orthdontics.

It has been fun to watch her learn her new job

and then put into practice her skills on her favorite patients!

Haley working on Clark

June 28th was Grandpa Brown's birthday.

Several family members gathered at the cemetary to sing

"Happy Birthday" and remember

our wonderful father and grandpa.

Clark and Bennett, along with 150 other boys,

(many who are friends) participated in

Mountain View's Basketball Camp in Prescott.

The boys loved spending the week with their friends,

sleeping in the dorms, practicing drills

and playing tons of basketball.

Clark and Bennett were each given

"The Hustler" award for their age groups!

Great Grandpa Leroy Breinholt turned 92 years old!

His children held a party for him

to celebrate this wonderful occasion.

He might not look it here, but he really did have a great time

seeing so many of his posterity.

We love having him live so close to us!

Cassidy & Katie drove up to Utah with Grandma and Grandpa.

They loved spending time with the Snow and Estes cousins.

We had a great 4th of July celebration...

and yes--there were plenty of fireworks!

We've Come Along Way, Baby!

2011-06-16T12:52:00.000-07:00

25 YEARS!

Engagement Picture

Wedding Picture

June 7, 1986

It's been a great ride with this guy!

I love you, Curtis Leroy Brown...

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY!

We Survived!

2011-06-13T16:19:00.000-07:00

The Mesa Central Stake Pioneer Trek

June 2-4, 2011

Forest Lakes, Arizona

"Faith in Every Footstep"

To say that I did not want to go would be a mild understatement!

I was terrifed!

I don't camp...ever!

Camp LoMia and Cheyenne Ranch are roughing it for me,

so the thought of freezing cold nights and port-o- potties

brought me no comfort.

I begged, pleaded and harrassed Curt to get me out of it,

(due to my fragile mental state),

but he was absolutely no help.

So, I got in the zone, bucked up and did it.

The anticipation was far worse than the reality.

I slept warm, and even though the bathroom situation was nasty,

I survived!

I CAN DO HARD THINGS!

(I have reminded President Robinson that this is a

once in a lifetime experience!)

Curt and I were Pa and Ma to some great kids!

We walked 25 miles in three days (14 miles the first day).

The first night was tough, rolling into a pitch black camp at 9:30pm,

exhausted and hungry.

The kids threw down their tarps, sleeping bags and slept,

some without dinner.

Dinner was broth and bread

and the temperature that night was 29 degrees.

The good news...the broth was hot and the bread was delicious,

and I slept soooo warm!

Clark said he woke up in the night to hear

girls crying and shivering,

men snoring and

women moaning!

The girls in our family were tough!

We learned so much from the Women's Pull and Rocky Ridge.

I loved getting a glimpse of my awesome children

hard at work and filthy dirty.

Cassidy gave a wonderful talk at our

Stake Trek Family Reunion Fireside

and shared her testimony and experiences of the Trek.

The experiences we shared on the trek changed us...changed me,

and we are grateful to have had this time

to really reflect on the sacrifices

made by the early saints.

We Survived!

Thanks Brett & Tia for taking such good care of Bennett
and to the Snows for outfitting us in our Pioneer dresses!

Cassidy is Famous!

2011-05-29T22:53:00.000-07:00

Members from around the world entered the Church’s first International Video Contest to create their own Mormon Message.

Cassidy took part in the winning video that was made by Brother Brian Burnham, a seminary teacher at Mountain View. Click here to view the awesome video!

Class of 2011

2011-05-27T23:07:00.000-07:00

I have been such a slacker in the blogging world.

I took tonight to get a bit caught up...

hope you have a while, there are quite a few new posts!

Haley has FINALLY graduated from Mountain View

and she was just a little excited!

She couldn't forget the red shoes and red lips!

all 788 graduates waiting for their name to be read

(it took 35 minutes to read all the names)

Haley has been blessed with ALOT of great friends

Haley and Jake

Haley and Michael

Brimley, Monson, Haley

Haley with her "guy friends"

Haley and Hayden

doesn't that have a cute ring to it?

Haley with boy BFF Reid

Haley with BFF Makaylee

We will miss her when she goes to BYU this summer.

Haley has lots of Provo trips planned and Skype dates!

So fun to have the whole family together

Gotta love the grandparents

Haley...Congratulations on all that you have accomplished!

We love you to death and are looking forward to watching

you live life to the fullest in the coming years!

Remember to smile!

Baccalaureate and Seminary Graduation

2011-05-22T22:31:00.000-07:00

Haley graduated from Seminary

along with 43 others from our Stake.

Sister Kreig, Cassidy, Haley, Sister Shields

Oh, how we love them, our awesome Stake YW Leaders!

Haley served with President Robinson
on the Stake Youth Committee.

He is still talking about her

dancing and karaoke skills from Girl's Camp last year.

She must take after her Grandma Charlene!

Baccalaureate was so good and we look forward to

Cassidy following in Tia's footsteps as Senior Class President

and planning all the graduation activities for the class of 2012.

Grandpa and Grandma are so supportive!

Haley with Ms. Scott, the Student Council Advisor.

Ms. Scott has served the past 5 years
with either Tia, Haley or Cassidy.

We have assured that next year will be the end
of the Browns in Student Council.

Clark and Bennett are so not interested!

Good job, Haley!

End of School Awards

2011-05-20T22:11:00.000-07:00

Haley conducted the Awards Assembly at Mountain View.

It was so impressive to hear of all
the accomplishments of the students.

Over 14 million dollars worth of scholorships
was awarded to Mountain View Seniors.

Haley was awarded the
"Outstanding Student Council Officer" Award

and the "Toro Friendship Award" with a $400.00 scholorship.

We are so proud of her and the amazing
high school experiences she has had.

She has definitely left her mark
with the students and administration...

we haven't met any one who doesn't
consider her a friend and love her.

My big 9th grade boy

Carie looked adorable on stage handing out awards!

She received the "4.0 Award" and "Top 20 9th grade Girls"

Clark received "Outstanding 9th Grade Male Athelete" and

"Scholor Athelete" Award
(play at least 3 sports and maintain a 3.5 or higher GPA)

Clark loves the girls!

Austin and Clark

Love's Lookin' Good on You

2011-05-13T21:38:00.000-07:00

May 13, 2011

WAS THE PERFECT DAY!

Tia and Brett were married at 3:45pm in the

Mesa Arizona Temple by Grandpa Clark.

We loved being surrounded by so many that mean so much.

Brett and Tia were calm, excited and oh, so happy!

We feel so blessed to have Brett a part of our family

and look forward to watching them live their lives together.

I love seeing them wearing their wedding rings

My beautiful girl

We had this picture enlarged and framed for the centerpiece at the candy station

I love this picture

and this one...

Happy Eternities Mr. and Mrs. Allred!

We'll post reception pictures as soon as we get them!

Prom 2011

2011-05-07T21:10:00.000-07:00

Haley and Cassidy were so excited to attend Prom with

two great guys who were total gentlemen!

Haley wanted a short dress for Prom.

In Macy's I found this dress for $16.00.

It was a one shoulder dress, so I bought two dresses and had a sleeve added.

SCORE!

The shoes we got on Dillard's clearance online for $14.99!

Oh, how I love a deal!

Haley and Grandma Virginia

Sassy pose with the $10.00 purse I found at Marshall's that matched perfectly!

(we added the cute broach for some extra bling!)

Haley and date Sam

They looked so sharp

Have a blast Miss Haley...we love you!

We love cousin Stacia for always doing hair for the

important occasions in our lives!

Grandpa, Cassidy, Grandma

I love this girl...she is so low maintainence!

She wanted to wear this dress that

Tia wore twice and Haley once.

I don't think I had to buy one thing for her this dance!

What a beauty!

Cassidy and date Kurt

(Curt went to Westwood with his Dad, Dave)

Our traditional dance pose!

We love you Cass...hurry home and give us the deets!

Cinco de Mayo

2011-05-05T20:57:00.000-07:00

With the wedding just a week away,

Haley knew better than to ask me to host a party,

so she sweet talked Curt and those two pulled

off a fun night with good food!

some of Haley's great friends

Katie, Makaylee, Haley, Jamie

Senor Brown who cooked up his

famous black bean salsa and cheese crisps!

Mi esposo es muy guapo!

April Showers

2011-04-30T20:22:00.000-07:00

With the wedding preparations well underway, so many wonderful family members and friends

showered Tia with lots of love and gifts.

Grandma, Kristin and Robin hosted the first shower at

Grandma Virginia's house for the

extended family and close friends...

Yummy croissant sandwiches, fruit, salads and a dessert tray

Natalie, Robin, Samantha

Tia...so excited!

Brett's sister Shelly and her girls Riley and Taylor

Tia's BFF McKenzie and mom Kris

awesome Brown cousins

Madison, Brittney with Charly, Jalee, Kenna

a little nervous to open the Victoria's secret box from

Haley and Cassidy!

the best grandmas ever!!!!

Poor Grandma Charlene wasn't feeling too good

after her first round of chemo!

She is such a trooper...

she made it to all the wedding festivities despite feeling crummy!

The beautiful denim quilt that Grandma, Kristin and Robin made.

They even had "Brett and Tia-May 13, 2011"

embroidered in the corner.

The ward hosted a darling shower the next week with an

awesome ice cream bar.

Don't you love the "A" for ALLRED?

The wonderful women of the Lazona ward!

Jen, Lori, Debbie, Tia, Elaine, and Aunt Kaye

(Brett's aunt who is in our ward and was at every shower, the temple and reception!)

Thanks to Lori for hosting it at her home!

And last but not least...wonderful friends and sisters

Xanga, Angela, Tia, Haley, Cassidy

Makayla, McKenzie, Nicki and Jen!

Thanks to all for their love and support for Tia!

Poston vs. Stapley Track Meet

2011-03-31T15:26:00.000-07:00

Carie Clark, Hailey Glenn (Carie's cousin on the Groberg side),

Samantha Clark and Clark Brown

My brother is a great writer, videographer and commentator. Check out this link for yesterday's much anticipated track meet with our three Mesa 9th grade cousins. Then, sit back, relax and read his blog for a good chuckle and a glimpse of why we love Sunday dinners with David's great stories!

Panther Basketball

2011-03-26T11:35:00.000-07:00

Basketball season was so fun!

Clark kept his #31 and had a great season.

He was named defensive player of the year for his team.

Poston tied for City Champs with Stapley.

Here he is in action!

THE BEST CHEERLEADER ever...CARIE!

Sneak Peak

2011-03-26T11:32:00.000-07:00

Brett and Tia had their engagement pictures taken.

Here are just a few...

49 days until May 13th!

Spring Break

2011-03-19T18:31:00.000-07:00

As a family, we didn't have much time for a full blown

Spring Break get away,

but Cassidy and Bennett were lucky enough

to be invited to go to Utah.

Cassidy went with a group of girls to Park City and

Bennett went with the Clarks to Provo.

Curt and Clark participated in "Mountain Man" for three days

(I wish boys would take pictures)!

Cassidy, Emmy, Katie, Abbey, and Cami

The cousins skiing!

Working Girl

2011-03-14T18:50:00.000-07:00

Haley is now an employee of Garn & Mason Orthodontics!

She works M-Th 1:30-5:30pm and in the summer she will

be full-time. She spends most of her time in the Mesa office,

but will also be scheduled to work in Queen Creek.

She is loving the staff, doctors and all that she is learning!

She felt so official when she got her scrubs and nametag!

Good job, Haley!

Crown Cassidy Brown

2011-03-11T18:29:00.000-08:00

Cassidy ran for Mountain View's 2012 Senior Class President.

She followed in the footsteps of Grandpa Clark, Tia, Aunt JuDene and Aunt Jen as previous Senior Class Presidents.

She and Curt were at the school at 5:45am on the first day of campaigning to strategically place her biggest poster.

They beat the competition there by 15 minutes!

Each day she wore a different colored neon T-shirt with her campaign slogan.

Cassidy worked so hard making posters, flyers and introducing herself to fellow classmates at lunch.

There were three candidates running....and CASSIDY WON!

Thanks to all those that helped...especially these two!

Congrats to Katie for being elected SB VP!

It's going to be a great year!

It's Official!

2011-01-28T10:32:00.000-08:00

Tia is engaged to Brett Allred!

We are looking forward to May 13th!

Let the fun begin!

Christmas Eve

2010-12-25T14:37:00.000-08:00

We celebrated Christmas Eve at ET & Kristin's with the

Glenns and Grandma and Grandpa.

We had a great program that ET organized.

The kids acted out the nativity

Katie Cassidy and Kimberly were angels

Bennett was a shepherd

The cast

Some of the grandchildren played the piano

as we sang along

Grandpa and Grandma shared a Christmas Story

and their testimonies.

We ended the evening with the traditional Gift Exchange Game,

Abby was a bit sad that Haley "stole" the necklace from her

and Yahtzee was what she ended up with.

She was such a good sport!

It was a wonderful evening and we loved being with our loved ones!

Brown Family Christmas Party

2010-12-23T14:24:00.000-08:00

The annual Brown Family Christmas Party was a success!

There were about 70 people in attendance for the

soup and salad buffet and the much anticipated

Gift Exchange Game.

The boys were able to talk sports!

All the cousins loved being together...

Bella and Lucy

Curt is sooo baby hungry!

Lyla, Curt and Tia

Casslyn and Reagan

Alisa, Corbin and Blake

Love all these cuties!

Bennett and Naaman

One of the most coveted gifts of the night.

Matt & Celeste were the lucky winners!

Grandma & Mel so excited to receive from all the kids

season tickets to the Hale Theatre!

Christmas Service

2010-12-18T13:28:00.000-08:00

Since we were not going to Mexico this year to build houses,

we did a family service project with the

Cowley's, Allens and Stewarts.

We helped clean up an elderly couple's yard.

There were lots of weeds to whack...

All these muscles were put to good use

filling this dump truck to the top.

Clark, Bennett, Jason, Cannon

Haley, Ashlyn and Kadyn added a

Christmas touch with some lights

The boys were intriguied with Van's tales

and were fascinated with his cat "Patches" that

he has saved over the years...

We wanted to help bury "Patches", but Van declined and wanted

to keep him just as he was!

It was a rewarding activity and it was fun to be with

great friends.

Brown Family Christmas Caroling

2010-12-17T14:22:00.000-08:00

We had a great time caroling with the

Brown and Stradling Families.

Thanks to Uncle Chuck for making it all come together!

Matt, Celeste, Madison and Jace

Bruce and Cindy

Austin and Cassidy

Ally, Daniel, and Courtney

Jace, Isaac and Clark

Grandma and Curt

Isaac and Haley

Birthdays

2010-12-17T13:26:00.000-08:00

Bennett turned 13 on December 6th!

My baby is a teenager!

He wanted to take some of his friends
to Jamba Juice before school.

Sophie, Wilson, Hunter, Carson and Bennett

Haley turned 18 on December 10th.

We now have more legal adults in the house than children!

We served 9 feet of subsandwiches, chips and scotcheroos

to this fun bunch and not a drop was left!

Tia turned 21 on December 12th.

We have given up on getting a picture of her with her eyes OPEN!

(She swears it is the way my camera flashes)

Her birthday was on a Sunday, so we had the meal of her choice...

pork roast, twice baked potatoes, rolls,
roasted veggies and cheesecake.

I also celebrated my birthday on the 17th.

Curt took me to lunch, I ate left over cheesecake
and loved the flowers

that were a wonderful surprise from Curt.

No pictures of the old folks!

Winter Formal

2010-12-04T23:13:00.000-08:00

Tonight was Mountain View's Winter Formal Dance.

Cassidy looked gorgeous!

Bennett and Wilson gave Cassidy a "send off kiss"!

Cassidy and Katie were in the same group.

Last week was the day activity of a Paint War and tonight started with pictures, dinner at Golden Gate, the dance and the night activity watching "Elf" and eating cinnamon rolls and hot chocolate.

Love these girls!

Cassidy and her date Blake

Since they had a little time before the dance started, part of Cassidy's group surprised us and stopped by the open house.
Here they are with the Bride and Groom!

Cassidy, Blake, Mel, Charlene, Katie, Stevie, Brianne, Nick

Meet the Stradlings!

2010-12-04T23:00:00.000-08:00

You have never seen a more giddy bride than Grandma Brown was this morning after being married to Melvin Stradling. Grandpa Clark performed a beautiful marriage ceremony in the Mesa Temple surrounded by a room full of children, grandchildren and siblings. We are so happy for them and are excited to have Mel join the family!

Mel and his wife Virginia have a beautiful family of 7 children that Grandma now gets to be a part of. We have enjoyed getting to know Mel and his children over the past several weeks and they are a great bunch of people!

Mel and Grandma hosted a fun open house for family and friends.

All our love and best wishes for many happy years to come!

November

2010-11-30T22:47:00.000-08:00

Bennett, Curt, and Clark hiked to Reavis Ranch

with the Scouts in the ward.

They had to pack their gear 14 miles round trip. I cheated and packed them Panda Express for their dinner and a Filiberto's burrito for breakfast. They needed some kind of motivation since

Clark accused me of "ruining his life" by making him go on the outing instead being able to

hang out on a Friday Night.

Clark ran the 10K Turkey Trot Thanksgiving morning and placed 2nd in his age group and 38th overall with a time of 38:44.

Kristin and E.T. hosted a wonderful Thanksgiving Dinner.

We had a nice program before dinner where we sang "Prayer of Thanksgiving" and everyone shared what they were thankful for...

home, family, temples, education, seminary,
good friends, and the gospel

were what our family was thankful for this year.

Katie, Samantha, Carie

Clark and Cassidy

Haley and Tia

It was fun to have Grandma Geri with us again this year!

The "teen table"

Max loading up on the delicious food!

Saying good-bye to Grandma Geri.

We also celebrated Cassidy's 17th Birthday. It wasn't the best birthday on record considering she was really sick and wasn't even up for cake. Sadly, no pictures of the day!

We also celebrated Curt's 47th Birthday!

Man, are we getting old!

Homecoming 2010

2010-09-25T23:36:00.000-07:00

The Homecoming festivities began Friday morning with the

assembly in the Mt. View gym.

Cassidy planned and conducted the entire assembly

from the band, drum line, pom, cheer,

and the royalty competitions.

She did an awesome job and we were so proud of her!

(sorry no pictures, darn it!)

Haley and her nominee partner, Conrad
in the Homecoming Parade.

Cassidy and Cami helping to pull the float

The junior float that Katie planned, organized and built!

The theme was Candyland and it looked awesome.

(see Katie in the center)

Clark and his buddies at the game.

Mountain View beat Dobson 33-0!

Haley was shocked when her name was announced as Homecoming Queen!

The look on her face was priceless!

I wish I had a picture!

It was so fun to see Curt drive her and Conrad down the track

as the announcer told about her interests and accomplishments.

Sam was named Homecoming King!

Haley on her way to the dance.

Haley and date Michael

Cassidy all dolled up!

Cassidy and date Drew

These girls were so lucky to be able to attend the dance

with such great guys. We were so impressed with

their manners and the way they treated our girls!

We can hardly wait to hear all the details of the night!

Panther Football

2010-09-15T22:56:00.000-07:00

Football season is in full swing.

On the first game day, the cheerleaders gave each of the 60

football players a brownie in the shape of a football

with their jersey number on it.

They were so cute and the guys loved the attention from

all these cute girls!

(notice Carie in the center)

Each game day, the football moms prepare a spaghetti lunch

to get their players pumped up!

Bennett loves riding the bus with the team to the games

and being out on the field as a "waterboy".

He takes great care of #31!

Cassidy and Katie in their Panther jerseys

Tia, Austin and Brett

It is so fun to have Carie their cheering on Clark and the other players.

She is and awesome flier when the cheerleaders stunt!

So far, the Panthers are 3-0 and if we can keep Clark

from getting hurt again, we will call the season a success!

These are just some of the awesome family and friends

that come out to the games to support Clark and Carie!

August Review

2010-09-10T22:48:00.000-07:00

The first week of August Haley and Cassidy

were involved in the Toro Links club.

They helped to plan and implement Sophomore orientation.

Each upperclassman was in charge

of a group of sophomores to mentor.

Haley's group dressed up as nerds

and this is Haley's interpretation...

First day of school: August 11, 2010

Haley-senior at Mountain View

(she and Cassidy had to wear their
Toro Link T-shirts on the first day of school)

Cassidy: Junior at Mountain View

Clark: 9th grade at Poston Jr. High

Clark's is the last 9th grade class to attend Poston.

Next year, 9th graders will be at Mountain View

(I'm still not too excited about that!)

Bennett: 7th grade at Poston Jr. High

He was able to wear the T-shirt that he bought

at the Nike Store in NY city

while on the Jamboree

Clark celebrated his 15th birthday!

Mountain View's Student Council

after their first assembly.

They presented the Traditions Assembly

three times in one morning.

Haley conducted the assembly and

Cassidy modeled Toro attire

and helped run the class competitions.

It was so fun to go watch them in action

and get back some of my own Toro Pride!

Wishing...

2010-08-31T22:28:00.000-07:00

Curt's friend had this awesome red convertible Lexus

that he let us drive for a few days.

We had way too much fun taking midnight rides

on hot August nights.

Haley even had a few friends convinced that her dad
had given her this for an early graduation gift.

Those that know us well, knew she was just wishing!

We were so sad when the car was sold and we were back to reality!

They're Off!

2010-07-16T12:41:00.000-07:00

After two years of planning, fund-raising, and going to meetings...

today was the day that my two handsome Scouts

left for the National Scout Jamboree for 20 days!

It was quite the ordeal to get them packed and ready to go!

This is just half of their stuff.

I hope I remembered to tell them all the important things...

be kind to each other, follow all the rules,

don't leave your backpack unattended,

take your socks off right side out, hang up your wet towels,

say your prayers, wear sunblock, take lots of pictures,

write in your journal and don't miss me!

Did I forget anything?

Bennett and cousin Max

These two will be roommates for the entire trip!

The four Sainted Men who will lead, instruct and love

my boys for the next three weeks!

The Patrol...We love that all these boys are already friends!

Riley, Dallas, Ben, Damon, Max, Dallin, Bennett, Clark

I kept telling my boys that this was good mission prep for them.

I realize it is more of a prep for me...

they were way too excited for the big adventure ahead

to even realize how much I will miss them!

Tonight's stop will be Cleveland...

Saturday... Kirtland Temple, Morley & Johnson Farms,

Hill Cumorah Pageant

Sunday...Palmyra Ward, Sacred Grove,

Smith & Whitmer Farms

and that is just the beginning!

Have a wonderful trip!

So Ready for Summer!

2010-05-27T00:06:00.000-07:00

Bennett's end of the year Orchestra Concert
and last performance at Hawthorne.

Poston's Award Ceremony

Clark received the 4.0 award
for maintaining A's each quarter this year

and

Outstanding 8th Grade Miler

for breaking a 25 year record at Poston
for the fastest mile by an 8th grade boy...
5:02!

We just can't study anymore!

The Gila Valley Temple Open House

2010-05-14T23:38:00.000-07:00

On May 14th, we took a family field trip to Central, Arizona

for the open house of the Gila Valley Temple.

We had so much fun listening to music, laughing and reminiscing

as we made the 2 1/2 hour drive from Mesa.

We missed having Tia with us.

She attended the open house the day before.

Bennett

Clark

My two fun girls...Cassidy and Haley

I love my family!

Photo Shoot

2010-04-28T15:19:00.000-07:00

Haley spent the first six hours of last Saturday
being a model in a photoshoot.

They had their hair, makeup and wardrobe professionally done,
and she loved being a part of it with so many of her friends.

Go here to see the sneak peek!

http://piedpiperphoto.blogspot.com/search/label/the%20pipers%20marionettes

Can you pick out Haley?

(she is the one in the bottom left)

Last year, Haley's friends had the same photographer capture some cute shots of them all together.

Go here to see that fun photo shoot!

http://piedpiperphoto.blogspot.com/2009/05/high-school-girlfriends.html

We can hardly wait to see the rest of the shots!

Prom

2010-04-25T22:35:00.000-07:00

Haley had a blast at Prom last night!

It is so fun to get all glammed up for a night with friends!

For a girl that isn't too frilly, she sure cleans up well!

A huge "thank you" to Kimberly for loaning Haley a dress.

It is quite a chore to find a modest prom dress,
and after several shopping trips,

and a purchase online that didn't fit,

we were saved by the offer to try one of Kimberly's dresses.

It was perfect and Haley loved it!

(I loved her cute ring!)

The big gold bow was adorable...

We loved having all the support as Haley waited to be picked up.

It was a bit of dejavu for these two...

We were so glad to have Kimberly back home

after her first year at BYU.

My three favorite girls!!!!

Cassidy was off with a group of friends to work at Prom.

It was a great initiation into Student Council.

Tia spent the evening with her girlfriends celebrating

BFF McKenzie's

upcoming wedding in two weeks!

We love this girl!

The most awkward part of the night, but we managed to get

the boutonniere to stay on long enough for the pictures!

Alex gave Haley the most beautiful corsage!

The cute couple!

The night's activities included:

A yummy dinner at a friend's house,

tons of pictures,

dancing,

prom royalty announced,

(Haley was nominated for Prom Princess,

but was not the lucky winner...

isn't it just an honor to be nominated?!)

and entertainment by a professional magician.

It was such a great night and Haley had a wonderful time!

National Honor Society

2010-04-21T22:19:00.000-07:00

Cassidy and Haley were both inducted into

National Honor Society.

The ceremony lasted exactly 23 minutes.

It was a beautiful thing!

Cassidy, Haley, Mr. Kleiner, Katie & Taylor

Good job, girls!

Breinholt Cousin Picnic

2010-04-12T23:21:00.000-07:00

We have been enjoying this annual cousin picnic for years,

and I think this is the first year I have thought to take pictures.

The first generation cousins have so many

great memories of growing up together

and we often hear of their escapades and memories.

It is really remarkable that so many

in this big family live in the valley.

It is a great opportunity for our kids to put names to faces

and to meet their second cousins.

Stay tuned for lots of pictures...

Addison, Heidi, Kenna, Jalee, Cassidy, Aubree, Kade, Aunt Jackie

Davey and Curt

Charlie and C.J.

Carson and Brandt

Brett, Tia, Kyle and Brittney

Stacia and Breckyn

Haley and Grandma Charlene

Deborah, Tiffany, Ava and Jason

Wayne, Addison and Brittney

Haley, Cassidy, Jalee, Corey

Brandt, Clark, Caleb

Bennett, Naaman, Elijah

Eathan, Jacob, Isaac

Grandma Charlene, Brian, Allison holding Zeke, Todd, Carson, Jen

I wish I could have snapped a picture of everyone,
but that would have cut into my visiting time!

Thanks to all who were able to come!

We are already looking forward to next year.