Happy Halloween!

We had a very fun Halloween and hope you did too!

Coming Soon...

An update! Don't mistake my lack of blogging for a lack of fun and exciting summertime adventures, because we had an AWESOME summer!

For now, here is Chloe on her first day of SECOND grade, this past Wednesday:

And being proudly dropped off at school by her little brother and little sister:

Reminders

While eating out this past weekend, an elderly couple who'd been sitting across from us, came over and starting chatting with us as they were leaving the restaurant. Our kids had been entertaining them while they ate their dinner. They went on to tell us how they had six kids of their own, they asked about the ages of our kids, and then the gentleman said, "They really are what life is all about."

Yes they are.

First Grade Graduate!

Chloe had her last day of first grade today! She is growing up so fast! She is such a smart girl and really excels at reading (and socializing!).

First Day of First Grade, September 2009

Last Day of First Grade, June 2010

After school, with her teacher, Ms. Penton

Chloe chose to go the Mongolian Grill for her celebratory lunch and we invited Grandma DD along!

Pretty Baby

Not that I'm biased or anything, but Piper sure is adorable!

Luau

Our new ward had a Luau on Saturday evening. It was really crowded (not enough tables and chairs!), the food didn't quite go far enough, and it was so noisy and loud that we ended up taking off early because Piper was so overstimulated and freaking out. Big change from our Bellevue ward that had a really low activity level! I was too busy saving seats at a table and dealing with crying Piper while Justin was standing in the long food line, to take any pictures, but I did snap a couple in the parking lot on our way out:

Since my posts sounds super-complainy, I wanted to add that the food was good-- the scouts roasted a pig in the ground and the little bit I got to taste was delicious! And I made a tropical fruit salad that was yummy- I was supplied with the recipe and I'll most likely make it again sometime in the future. Here is the recipe:

1 pkg (4.6 oz) Vanilla Pudding (not instant) (Sugar Free pudding can be used)
1 pkg (4 oz) Tapioca Pudding
4 Tbsp Orange Juice Concentrate
2 Cans Mandarin Oranges (drained saving liquid)
2 Cans (20 oz) Pineapple Chunks (drained saving liquid)
2 bananas sliced

Combine fruits, draining liquid and saving. Measure liquid and add water to make 3 cups. In sauce pan, combine puddings and liquid. Stir in orange juice. Heat, stirring constantly until mixture boils and mix is thick and smooth. Remove from heat and cool slightly. Pour over fruit. May be served warm or cold.

Do You Coupon?

We live in a high cost of living area on one income-- money can be tight. Over the past year we have dealt with a paycut (thanks economy!), health insurance premium increases with coverage decreases, loss of income from me no longer working-- and we added another kiddo to our family. Anyone who knows me, knows I'm a shopper by nature. But, I'm a shopper that loves a good deal, so I found a new way to continue my shopping "hobby." Last fall I started using coupons more and while I'm not nearly as skilled as some ladies I know, I am pretty good at getting things for really cheap or free... or better yet, getting money for "buying" items. It does take planning and prep work, but its worth it! I get most of my info from a few blogs and one online forum (there are tons more out there, these are just the ones I frequent). Check 'em out, you might get hooked too!

www.slickdeals.net/forums
http://www.totallytarget.com/
http://www.frugallivingnw.com/
http://www.thekrazycouponlady.com/
http://www.tightwadinutah.com/