Elder Clayton Patterson

Clayton's mission farewell was on 2/20/11 in Surprise, AZ. Here are a few pictures from the luncheon afterwards. I know Clayton wasn't too fond of having his picture taken, but he'll thank me later!

Grinch Baby

Ammon loves to read Dr. Suess books. Among his favorites are "When the Grinch Stole Christmas." We purchased a Grinch doll for Ammon a few weeks before Christmas and he has been attached to it ever since. Due to the number of arguments in our home over the Grinch, we also purchased a Grinch doll for Maddie a few weeks later. The Grinch does everything but bathe with Ammon, and I think he'd also join him in the bath tub if I'd allow it.

About two weeks ago, Ammon decided that the two Grinches were going to produce him a "Grinch Baby." Not knowing exactly what his plans were, I watched as he took the Grinch dolls and placed them on the couch together. He took my hand and walked me into the kitchen. He proceeded to check on their progress over the next few minutes and then explained his plans to me.

After about ten minutes of no baby, he finally sighed and asked, "Uhhh, how long it this going to take mom?" The whole event brought a smile to my face and made me giggle a bit. I quickly explained that only living things can create babies. Although this was a little disappointing to Ammon, he finally came to terms with the fact that we'll only have a boy and girl grinch in our house and never a grinch baby.

My Goals for 2011:

2010 was a pretty crazy year for our family. Now that we're settled in California, I've set a few goals for myself. I'm posting them on the blog to help make myself more accountable... to ensure that I actually accomplish everything on this list.

1. Getting more physically fit. I plan to run 200 miles this year. This isn't a lot for most of you, but will be a challenge for me as most of my spare time when I'm not chasing after or caring for kids, preparing meals, or cleaning house is spent working on the computer.

2. Completing the GMAT and starting a two year MBA Program
I hope to start taking classes this coming fall. There are several universities close to us, so I have many to chose from. Unfortunately, a lot of this process is them chosing me. I don't anticipate an issue getting accepted into one of these schools, but can honestly say that I'm feeling an array of emotion starting school again.

3. Reading scriptures every night as a couple. Most of the time I'm working when Nathan is getting ready for bed, so this will require some changes in my schedule, but I know this experience will help us grow stronger.

Anyway, I'm looking forward to improving my overall health both physically and spiritually.

Christmas 2010

We had a wonderful Christmas. December was full of festive activities, visiting the Oakland Temple, birthday parties for Ammon's classmates, various holiday parties, and visits with Santa.

Moffett Field Military Christmas PartyHeritage Oaks Ward Christmas Party

We had the opportunity to spend time with family in Arizona during Christmas. The drive to Arizona and back home was long, but it was definitely worth enduring. On Christmas Eve Day, we went on a hike with Uncle Darcy and Aunt Susan, their children, and many grandchildren as well as Grandma & Grandpa King. Ammon & Bruce were the ultimate hikers, which Ammon referred to the "King Team." They beat everyone up the mountain and were first coming back down as well. As Ammon put it, "no one could beats the King Team." Truth be told, Bruce was the real trooper since he was carrying Ammon most of the way.

While in Arizona, my brother Clayton receive his mission call to Thailand too! We were so happy to be able to be a part of this monumental life experience. We were excited to be there as he read the letter. We love you Clayton and wish you the best of luck. We know without a doubt that you'll be an amazing missionary!

This past weekend has been wonderful and we've had lots of family time together. We've finally unpacked all the boxes and put everything in it's place. Ammon & I saw a movie together on Thanksgiving while Maddie Sue and Daddy napped. He was also a huge help setting up and decorating the Christmas tree.

Maddie refused to keep the bow in her hair..I was shocked that Ammon was excited to wear his new tie!

Our precious little ones...

We hope you all have a wonderful Christmas. Always remember the true reason for this season!

Trip to San Francisco

We’re now living pretty close to San Francisco and took a trip there last weekend. One of the positives of living in a tiny hotel room is that we’re all eager be out and about. We’ve enjoyed visiting children’s museums, the beach, Pumpkin Festivals, and downtown San Francisco during the past month. Thankfully we’ll be moving into base housing on November 19th and we’re counting down the days.

Halloween

My mom has asked for pictures of the kids from Halloween a few times now. Life has been pretty crazy lately so I'm just getting around to it. Sorry Grandma Mort.

Little Red Riding Hood and Spiderman

Look! It's the Big Bad Wolf!

Ammon is ready to get some candy at our ward Trunk or Treat

In front of the decorations at the ward party. It was a great event with cool decorations, pizza, and a haunted hallway.


Spiderman and Little Red Ridinghood really enjoyed Halloween. We hope you all did as well.