Popcorn Popping on the Campbell Tree

Girl-ism

2011-12-14T18:22:00.000-08:00

A couple of good things happened to our family lately; my parents bought a house and my sister and brother in law are going to rent it and live closer. As we found out the great news Saturday night; my girls stayed up late talking. And it went something like this:

Not having Whitney, Ben, and Easton in the same ward with us is like

having a caramel apple without the caramel.

Its like having guacamole without the lime.

Its like....

And they were making up sayings like that all night.

Love it!

Happy Halloween

2011-12-14T18:05:00.000-08:00

Porter (Scooby-doo), Hazen (Dinosaur)

McKenzie (Hippie), Sarah (Belle)

Lydia (Cheerleader)

Look at that adorable face. Hazen just loved being in the wagon as we went from house to house.

Hazen's first roll over

2011-12-14T17:56:00.000-08:00

Hazen is thinking about rolling over. ( 6 1/2 months old)

I'm almost there....

I did it!

Girls and Boys

2011-12-14T17:51:00.000-08:00

Scott and Porter wanted to sleep in the back yard. Porter spent all day preparing for this special occasion with Daddy.

Well, since the boys were outside, the girls had there own sleepover in Mom's room.

We had a super fun time.

Carmel Vacation 2011

2011-12-14T15:46:00.000-08:00

We added some thing new to the trip this year, a bond fire. We all wondered why we didn't think of this before.

Our first family photo with our new addition.

My boys

Cutie Pie- 4 Months

2011-10-30T16:39:00.000-07:00

Hazen Campbell- 4 months old

Womens UOP Soccer Team

2011-09-28T08:15:00.000-07:00

Scott had a great idea for all the kids...to attend the women's UOP soccer game.

They played San Jose State and

won 2-0.

All the girls were so excited to get autographs, but before they did that they were all asked to take a photograph with the whole team.

She was the goalie.

This player shared the same soccer number as Lydia, #3

This player scored all 2 goals.

First hair cut

2011-09-27T13:38:00.000-07:00

Hazen, you were born with the cutest hair style. All you blonde hair on top, gathered together and made a curly q. But as time when on, your hair thinned.
Gammie and Papa to the rescue.
Now you are my cute bald baby!

Preschool

2011-09-27T12:50:00.000-07:00

Porter started preschool at Grace Presbyterian Preschool. He loves it there. Learning and growing and waiting to go with his sisters to Lakewood School. Next school year will be the only year that all 4 of my children will be at the same school.

My Sweethearts Big Day

2011-09-27T12:47:00.000-07:00

We started off the birthday weekend with the Cundari's. Laurie and Dave are so sweet to give him a birthday gift. And I know that it took a lot of restraint being SF Giant fans to buy Scott an LA Dodger hat. But what you don't see is the best thing of all.....

a LIGHTER

to burn it.

Another great year with my wonderful husband whom I just adore.

My dad the "Human Swing."

My dad swung me, my sister and all my kids.

All about McKenize

2011-09-27T12:28:00.000-07:00

You are such a terrific girl.

I love you McKenzie.

Soccer sesson highlights

2011-09-27T11:09:00.000-07:00

Lydia is so fast.

Lydia loves playing goalie.

The defender and the goalie. Unstoppable Twins working together.

She winding up....watch out

Enlarge the photo if you cant see my Sarah starting to give the blue team a soccer jab.

Imagine that, Sarah aggressive?!

Sleepover

2011-09-27T10:51:00.000-07:00

This was our first sleepover in our new house. All the kids had an absolute blast!

Lydia and Sarah's dear friend, Morgan is moving to Idaho tomorrow. We were so very lucky to have her for one last play date.

We divided up the rooms in two. Georgia and McKenzie are so sweet to include Porter. Porter goes wherever they go. Its so cute.

We had eight kids at the house; and they were magnificent!!! I'd have that many over again in a heart beat.

Turning 4

2011-09-25T15:18:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday Porter!

Porter's favorite cake is Sherry Cake.

Porter is fascinated with the show, Max and Ruby. And there is an episode titled "Super Bunny," where Max (wearing his cape) pretends to be a super hero and saves the day. Gammie made Porters day and made him a cape.

WOW, I barely captured Porter on film he was so fast.

Everyone who knows Porter, knows his love for trash, trash cans and trucks. Aunt Whitney and Uncle Ben added to his love for trash by giving him a trash picker-upper. Lets see if Porter can pick up the wrapper the present came in.

Yes! He did it!

Oh, this boy loves loves loves Suzi Kelly! She surprised Porter with loads of candy. We love her and are lucky to have her and her family in our lives.

Grandma and Big Papa knew exactly what to get Porter. It was a perfect fit for our house too. Two cars that race each other by a push of a button. We have a super long hallway just for that sort of thing.

"Super Porter" was all tuckered out by the end of the day. Thanks Mom for making his cape. As you can tell, he LOVES it.

Hazen Taylor Campbell

2011-09-18T14:56:00.000-07:00

My Hazen Taylor Campbell is named after my Great, Great Great Grandfather Hazen Taylor. Actually this Christening Gown that he has on is over 100 years old; which was worn by Hazen Taylor.

It was a special Sunday in the Lodi 3rd Ward where Hazen and Easton were blessed.

Annual Fireworks

2011-09-18T14:39:00.000-07:00

I don't know who thought of this but what I do know is Scott, Ben and my Dad where out with the kids when I walked out and saw this. My husbands illegal fireworks out in a pot up on a ladder. Best time ever.....Big memories for the kids.

Tot Soccer

2011-09-18T14:30:00.000-07:00

Porter is amazing! He is a machine. Scoring 5,6 times a game.

These boys, (Noah, Porter and Hayden) are THE team. Its so cute to watch. For the opposing team to have any kind of chance to get the ball, Scott holds the three boys back and one at a time lets one go and they score. They are monsters on the soccer field.

Three months old

2011-09-01T20:45:00.000-07:00

Mama's Hazen

I am in love with being a Mom. I love that Hazen only wants me. Its part of being a mom and I am enjoying every minute of it.

Mothers can make everything better. I love that I can come into a room and Hazen can instantly stop crying. And don't get me started on all his adorable smiles! He is such a happy baby. I love that he can hear my voice and know its me. From birth babies know their mothers smell.

There's nothing else like it... the love that a mother and baby share!

Two Months old

2011-09-01T20:32:00.000-07:00

Motherhood is a great blessing- a blessing so valuable that it goes beyond this life and on into the eternities.

I feel great love for my children and gratitude for the privilege I've had of playing a part in God's eternal plan.

One month old

2011-06-28T21:55:00.000-07:00

Your a month old already. I love you and enjoy the happiness that you bring to me and our family. Thank you Aunt Whitney for making this hat and making this photo as cute as can be .

Eat my Bubbles

2011-06-28T21:23:00.000-07:00

Go Triton's!

Look out swimmers, my girls are fast.

Eat their bubbles

McKenzie took first place in her events. The head coach of the Triton's commented on how fast she swims. That made McKenzie's day, and her mother's.

This is Lydia and Sarah's second year swimming and they are loving every minute of it. They took second place in all their events.

Sarah wanted to see Lydia at the finish.

What a way to finish; having your twin cheering you on!!

UPS

2011-06-23T21:17:00.000-07:00

We love the UPS man!
We love Dave Cundari!
They just happen to be one in the same.
Dave Cundari is a very close friend of our family. Dave surprised Porter with a UPS hat, truck and bear. Porter wore the hat to bed, and wanted to bring it to church the next day. Porter was a good sport about not bringing it to church but wouldn't you know it he put it on immediately afterwards. Boys and there TRUCKS.

Grown up date night

2011-06-23T20:50:00.000-07:00

At the end of each quarter, Scott and I reward the girls with a grown up date night if their grades are excellent! A grown up date night means; a date night like "Mommy" has with Daddy.

Proud Big Brother

2011-06-23T20:42:00.000-07:00

There is not a prouder big brother out there! Is there such a thing as to much Love? The answer is "NO WAY."

Keeping her Busy

2011-06-23T20:32:00.000-07:00

Lydia is sure keeping the Tooth Fairy busy these days.

Sisterly Love

2011-06-23T20:27:00.000-07:00

One thing that is great about living in a small duplex is the close relationship you build with your family. Saying that, I had the wonderful opportunity to hear loud laughter coming from the girls bedroom on this summer afternoon. Scott and I hope that our children will stay close and remember all the good times that they had together growing up.

I love your......

2011-06-23T19:01:00.000-07:00

I love your......loud squeaks and grunts ( loves to talk to his mommy)
                        smiles
                        different facial expressions
                        constant grin on your face
                        sweet disposition
                        when you instantly stop crying when I pick you up
                        dimples
                         new baby smell
                         kissable/chubby checks
                         love when you ball up on my chest
                         love that Heavenly Father sent you down to me
                         grip my fingers
                         cute toes
                         blue, blue eyes
                         your baby soft hair
                         when I am holding you and you burst out in laughter while asleep
                         amazing sense of smell (knowing its me just by the way I smell)
                         ravenous appetite
                         need to be held all the time
                         my baby boy

I love that each minute of every day there are more things to LOVE about you.

Our first new family photo

2011-05-17T08:49:00.000-07:00

Being a mother to 5 wonderful children brings more joy and happiness into my life than I could have ever imagined. They mean the world to me and I love them with every fiber of my being! The sweet moments spent with them daily, seeing them grow, and socking in all their fun personalities makes me glad that I am a stay at home mom. Thank you honey for working so hard and taking on the daily stress of your job so that I can live/love/cherish our children!

I love my eternal family!
Happy Mother's Day

Welcome to our Family, Baby Hazen

2011-05-13T19:27:00.000-07:00

Today is the day! One last family photo before Hazen enters the world. Scott and I are off, taking the kids to school and then leaving for the hospital for the exciting event! I cant wait! I am beaming with joy!

After Christmas 2010, the kids and I made a chain out of construction paper to help us count down the days of Hazen's arrival. We placed stars on important events that had led up to this day. It was a big help for the kids to wake up to and then see one by one we are one day closer to seeing Hazen. No more stars.......I am going to see my baby today!!!!

I couldn't be HAPPIER! Scott and I have been trying to have a baby for a year and a half. And this day is finally here! I am estatic....Life couldn't get any better than this.

Hazen Taylor Campbell; Born at 1:16pm on May 5th, 2011// 9lbs 15 oz; 21 inches long

Sarah is a very proud big sister. Being in the hospital was hard on Sarah. She didn't want to be away from her mom.

McKenzie, this is what you looked like when you were born. McKenzie said, " I am never washing my hands again.....they smell like Hazen!" McKenzie is such a sweet and loving, caring sister. She will be a great mother someday. She is already a little mother to Porter.

Porter is excited to have a little brother. Always wanting to hold him and kiss him. Porter is such a lover.

Lydia loves holding Hazen and she is concerned about how I am doing. Always rubbing my back and arms, making me feel loved! My Lydi-bug.....so sweet!

In just 6 weeks Aunt Whitney will be holding her baby; Easton Becker Lichty! I cant wait. I will be an AUNT!

Gammie said," I just cant get over how much Hazen looks like McKenzie." "Every time I look at him I think he is a girl." What can I say, I make pretty babies. :)

Isn't this photo adorable! Three big sisters doting over their brother.
Through the faith of these three girls, our family was blessed with baby Hazen. Every day for a year and a half, McKenzie, Lydia and Sarah prayed and prayed for a baby. Holding strong and having a firm belief that our Heavenly Father would bless us.....Here we are......we have Hazen!

End of the year FUN

2011-05-12T10:16:00.000-07:00

Mrs. Kurst, McKenzie's music teacher invited all the Lakewood students to participate in the "Music in Schools"s concert at Tokay High. Schools in the Lodi School District were involved. McKenzie loves to sing and we are so proud of her.

Lakewood Talent Show

This is McKenzie's second year being involved in the Lakewood Talent Show. Last year she sung with a friend, "My favorite things" (from the Sound of Music) in front of the whole school. I do have to say thanks to Aunt Whitney and Uncle Ben for starting the Yearly Christmas Talent Show, McKenzie has tons of confidence in herself and her ability to do anything she sets her mind to. McKenzie you ROCK!

Back in Action

2011-04-26T09:42:00.000-07:00

Scott, Porter and I are back in action. We were able to get so much accomplished today in the garden. I am so proud of my boys!

My buddy is working so hard, he deserves a break.

Scott gave me such a great compliment. He said, "Look at my little pioneer women." Working as a team has brought us closer together. I love seeing what all our HARD WORK gets us in the end.

We were so glad to have Georgia Kelly over for a play date. She is such a great friend.

This is our orchard! We put in the trees just last year! Just a couple more months and we will have tons of fruit. Cant wait. The fruit will never make it home if I have anything to do with it!!

Easter

2011-04-26T09:12:00.000-07:00

It was great to have everyone gathered together for Easter. We were so happy to have Josh and Maria over too.

The three pregnant ladies.


Having a large family there is always birthday parties.		Happy to Birthday to Ben, Lydia and Sarah.

Game Day

2011-04-24T22:04:00.000-07:00

On the way to the field to play soccer, Porter says, " I am a big boy playing soccer and my Daddy is the coach!"

Uncle Ben and Aunt Whitney were watching Porters soccer game. He was so proud to show off his soccer skills. Very confidently, Porter gave a wave to them before he attacked the ball.

Porter was so fast for my camera that he took the ball and almost made a goal. Go Porter...we are so proud of you.

Proud Coach giving Porter a high five. Once again we won! Good thing we are not competitive.

Trade Shows can be Fun

2011-04-22T15:33:00.000-07:00

Who says trade shows aren't fun! Scott emailed me this photo from his trade show in Lake Tahoe.

I love watching cartoons. Yes, still at age 34. Pink Panther is one of my favorites.

Scott you are such a CUTIE!

I love you.

The soccer life

2011-04-20T21:11:00.000-07:00

I love playing soccer with my Dad!

Thanks Sam Kelly for the cleats.

Any ones ball...go Porter!

Dad give me a "High Five", we won again!

Ralph's hat/shirt combo

2011-04-20T20:44:00.000-07:00

Here is Porter showing off the hat and shirt that he received from Ralph, the garbage man! He lives for Wednesdays. Garbage Day of course! He has learned to count and subtract due to Ralph. Porter takes his garbage responsibility very seriously! Porters garbage cans are put out on Wednesday and we don't go anywhere until Ralph comes. Immediately after Ralph coming Porter puts them away in a neat straight line. He is very concerned when the neighbors aren't putting there garbage away for hours or days after Ralph comes.

Porterism

2011-04-20T20:24:00.000-07:00

Porter loves his Pizza my Heart shirt that we bought him last October in Monterey. Scott told Porter that we will go again this year too. Porter responded by saying, "I don't want to go to Pizza My Heart anymore, its to Fancy!"

And after a big gulp of crystal light ( making that face a little dirtier) Porter said, " Crystal light is good for big boys."

Ralph's here

2011-04-20T20:17:00.000-07:00

We have one SPECIAL garbage man! We never miss Wednesday's pick up.

Porter is his biggest fan. Porter's gift from Ralph....WM hat!

Love it Buddy!

An Amazing baby shower for an Amazing Woman!

2011-04-20T20:08:00.000-07:00

Its an honor to be pregnant with my wonderful sister! I love sharing this magical experience with her that our Heavenly Father has blessed us both with at this time. My last child and her first. And if that wasn't special enough we are both having boys! Double trouble or bosom buddies, only time will tell. If my Dad has anything to do with it, Porter will be the ring leader and double trouble will be close behind! Love you Dad

What a gorgeous and proud grandmother!

Coach & son rock Tot Soccer

2011-04-20T19:51:00.000-07:00

A little one on one practice with the coach before the big game.

Red Won! Good job team.

Pick a friend & movie & dinner

2011-04-20T19:13:00.000-07:00

This was Lydia and Sarah's first birthday party! They love playing with Jillian and Morgan and it was a no-brainer who they were going to invite. So glad that they could come and help make Lydia and Sarah's birthday special.

Candy plus Movie (HOP) plus dinner (Moo Moos) plus Ice cream (Honey Treat) equals FUN FUN FUN!

Happy Birthday Lydia and Sarah

2011-04-20T19:01:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday Lydia and Sarah! It's a great feeling to be 7 yrs old.

Party all day long!!

Birthday girls have to start off the day with yummy doughnuts.

Scott and I surprised the girls by going to their classroom with a bunch of balloons for them and toys/treats for all their classmates. I love those surprises.....the unexpected ones!

Look out everyone, the birthday girls are coming through! There is nothing like making children's birthdays memorable! I love being a mom and coming up with ways to make them happy and feel loved!

It has been an incredible blessing in my life to be a mother; especially to twin girls. I love their different personalities which makes life exciting and full of adventure. They compliment each other beautifully. I look forward to all the fun-filled days ahead raising such marvelous girls in the gospel. Lydia and Sarah... your dad and I love you so very much and are so proud of the daily decisions that you are

making and so does your Heavenly Father.

Lydiaism

2011-04-20T17:55:00.000-07:00

We are in the car and McKenzie says, "I wonder how Porter will act with Hazen?" Scott says, "He will teach him all the big boy stuff like, mowing the lawn, taking out the trash. Then Lydia steps in and says, "Porter is going to teach Hazen how to get all the girls attention."

Conference Morninig

2011-04-20T17:46:00.000-07:00

Scott and I woke up to Porter singing, "Follow the Prophet" conference morning. What a great way to start this morning.

I'm going up there!

2011-04-03T16:52:00.000-07:00

As I was doing Porter's hair for church on Sunday, he stood on his stool and looked in the mirror and said, "I look like a missionary!" Who knew this was the start of a Sunday that I would never forget. Porter loves when Bishop Brink comes and shakes his hand. Porter is so proud of his scriptures and loves showing Bishop Brink his scriptures. After sacrament Porter looked around and then said to me, "They are late." It took me a second and then I realized what he meant. I told him that we don't have speakers on Fast Sunday, we bear our testimony of the gospel. We can tell everyone that we love Jesus and are thankful for him and all that he as done for us; like giving us scriptures to read. Porter says strongly, "I"M GOING UP!" I said, "OK, Do you want me to go with you?" He said, "No." Then Scott asks, "Do you want me to go with you?" Porter immediately said, "Yes." So Porter walked up with Scott, opened his scriptures ready to bear his testimony. Then Scott whispered in his ear what to say. Porter pulled the microphone away from himself and turned it to Scott and said, "Daddy, you say it!"

I was teary eyed and loving every moment of that Daddy and son experience. As Scott served a mission in Boston, I am looking forward to sending Porter on a mission to serve the Lord. At such an early age, Porter was determined to take his scriptures up and want to bear his testimony. I am so proud of him that he knows that scriptures are important and that Jesus loves him.

Toothless Twins

2011-04-03T16:13:00.000-07:00

Well when one twin starts losing her teeth, the other seems to follow.

They are loving all the candy and money that the Tooth Fairy delivers. I think that they are making teeth lose, that aren't loose. :) They are still showing Scott and I more lose teeth. Crazy, silly girls! What a great age and having memories of the tooth fairy and losing teeth. They are at such a great age. I love being a MOM!

Day 10- Final Day of the Canada Trip

2011-03-21T20:28:00.000-07:00

After visiting the Waterfalls, we wasted no time trying to beat the snow on Mt Ashland and through Mt Shasta area. We were so close. Well, when plan A fails, there is always plan B. Well I guess our plan B at midnight was Walmart parking lot again. Funny thing was seeing all the big rigs and motor homes that were there when we entered. I guess we weren't the only ones who had to wait til morning to drive in the snow.

This trip was absolutely unbelievable! I am blessed to have the wonderful family that I do! Our love for each other grew and am thankful for the the large amount of blessings that we received on this trip. It was a jammed packed 10 days of nothing but love, laughter and learning.
I can't wait for the next Campbell adventure.

Day 9 of the Canada Trip

2011-03-21T20:01:00.000-07:00

Bonneville Lock and Dam in the Columbia River Gorge.

We were able to view the fish ladder. The fish swimming up stream on the fish ladder.

We took a tour of the dam and this picture is of the top of the fish ladder.

There are several turbines that the dam operates.

Look what I found! The exact desk that my parents have in their office. My Mom and Dad have had this for years. And I think at one point, we had that chair too.

No matter how many signs, "Don't sit" kids will sit anyway.

Boys are just drawn to tools.

The next stop was to the Fish Hatchery. The kids were able to buy food and feed fish.

10 foot sturgeon.

One final feeding before we leave.

Our last stop for the day, the Waterfalls.

If it wasn't so raining and slippery and I should include 71/2 months pregnant, I would have loved to hike up to the bridge half way up to the waterfall. Scott said that there is a trail to the top top of the waterfall. All for that without the kids, don't need to lose a child!

We just had to pull over to have this photo.

I 3/4 mile trail to this waterfall was just breathtaking! But I lost the love for the trail, when I was hiking up hill to get back to the car. But it was worth it.

Day 8 of the Canada Trip

2011-03-21T19:06:00.000-07:00

Drove to see Mount St Helen's Museum.

One of the tree stumps from when Mt. St Helen's erupted.

This was a favorite exhibit. The kids are jumping to make their own earthquake.

We took a beautiful walk along the wetlands.

She is my goofball!

Day 7 of the Canada Trip

2011-03-21T18:47:00.000-07:00

I asked Porter this morning if he was hungry yet and if he would like some applesauce before his pancakes. Porters says, "NO, I want something good for my body!"

Porter says, "WE WANT PANCAKES!"
"MOM, WE WANT PANCAKES!"
"MAKE THEM QUICK!"
"WE CANT MISS RALPH!"
All this was said this morning by my sweet, handsome son. Oh and if you are wondering who Ralph is, he is our garbage man at home. One of Porter's best friends, and any one else who drives a truck.

I told Porter to put back Daddy's chap stick. Porter says, "But Mom, I need chap stick, real bad! My lips burn real bad! I need it for kissing!"

What a great picture of my handsome men in my life! I am sure a lucky girl!
Every morning at Weir Beach RV Resort, Porter was co-pilot and is in charge of the trash and checking out.

Beautiful government building in Victoria.

We went to the British Columbus Museum of Natural History

Here is John Lennon's car. (the yellow submarine)

My girls are just soaking up so much knowledge on this trip.

Here we are at our camp site for the night at Barrington Island on the Puget Sound.

Day 6 of the Canada Trip part 2

2011-03-17T03:41:00.000-07:00

Flowers from the Butchart Gardens in Victoria, British Columbia.

Scott wanted pictures of all his girls.

Now the second place we went today was The Butterfly Gardens. You pay to be surrounded by butterflies and any other insects/animals that would live in a humid climate with them.

Snap dragons

The girls loved looking through the microscopes and learning about different things.

The kids were able to play for a little bit before dinner and then it started to rain on them.

And after it rains, the sun comes out and we are blessed with a beautiful rainbow. What a perfect ending to a perfect day!

Day 6 of the Canada Trip part 1

2011-03-17T03:09:00.000-07:00

One of our two stops today is the famous Butchart Gardens in Victoria, British Columbia. As we entered the gardens, I couldn't stop thinking of how many hours my Dad would enjoy looking around. But we would definitely have to keep a sharp eye on him as he would like to take home some seeds and flowers and branches for souvenirs that he knows he shouldn't be. My Dad loves to landscaping. And is very talented in it.

If you look closely around the gardens, they have made animals out of plants and or flowers. Lydia spotted a lion.

Sarah spots a mother deer and her two babies.

I spy honeybees. I had to have Scott take a picture. When I was young I called my Dad honeybee.

Day 5 of the Canada Trip

2011-03-17T02:10:00.000-07:00

Here we are on the Port Angeles Ferry heading toward Canada. We will be on the ferry for an hour and a half. Then will be in the city of Victoria on Vancouver Island.

McKenzie says, "Mom.....Dad..Lydia is pouting!" Scott says, "Well, who do you think she learned it from?" Lydia quickly says, "Gammie." Sorry Gammie, that was some funny stuff!

After we got off the ferry our first stop before heading to the camp site was to visit the Fisgard Lighthouse.

Campbell River

McKenzie has some strong muscles.

Weirs Beach RV resort. We are standing right outside our motor home. We will be here for two nights. Its wonderful to wake up to the sound of waves.

After taking pictures on the beach at our camp site, Lydia says, "This is like our dream life."

Day 4 Canada trip

2011-03-17T01:37:00.000-07:00

We have been teaching the kids new games prior to the trip. And Porter now loves Ono. He actually wins more than the rest of us. He will have one card left and say "Ono" boo-ya. And put the last card down and say loudly "I WON!"

This Koa is beautiful. Log cabin buildings for everything. Last night I was sicker than ever but that didn't slow us down..no way. Thank goodness for being sick at night. Pouring down rain all night, and woke up to sunny and beautiful. Kids are having fun getting all there wiggles out while I do laundry. They have air hockey, games, books, cable TV and free ice cream.

Our only stop today was the Tillamook Cheese factory. We learned about how they made cheese and ice cream. Well, I will be honest, all we all wanted was the free cheese and all the ice cream that Scott could buy us!

I am not crying. I am in line trying to order ice cream. But there are so many flavors I am having a very hard time deciding on what to order. Scott made a comment that sent me laughing hysterically.
Scott told the girls that we are going to the most beautiful part of Canada tomorrow. Then Sarah says, "Not more beautiful than Mommy!" Scott says, "Never!"
So sweet! That made my day.

Our goal that night was to get as close to Port Angeles as possible. Which means that we had to drive 6 hours to our camp site tonight to make it on the ferry by morning. So as we got closer, Scott has an idea to camp at an Wal-Mart parking lot. We rolled in the parking lot at 1am. We both agreed why pay for a camp site for a couple of hours of sleep...so we red necked it! Does it make a difference that it was new and cameras everywhere in the parking lot?

Day 3 of the Canada Trip

2011-03-17T00:56:00.000-07:00

Oh, Porter, you are my angel. Anyone who knows Porter, knows that he lives to clean, put out the trash and line up trash cans perfectly, mow lawns and fix stuff just like Daddy. Early this morning he jumped at the chance to help mommy.

Our camp site last night was at Jedidah Smith Redwoods camp site. As we were leaving and backing out the motor home to leave, Lydia discovered a banana slug. Scott's parents were right, its one of the best ones around!

We are super happy, one state closer to Canada. Happy to be in Oregon. We have some cool stops for the kids in Oregon.

Along the way, the right thing to do was to help try to get the tree out to the road. Well, we tryed...
Along the way the rain and wind was so strong that we saw land slides everywhere.

The prehistoric gardens was a stop that we had planned, but they were closed contrary to their website, answering machine and hours of operation on the front door. Oh well, a picture by a dinosaur is good enough. Money saved there means more souvenirs somewhere else!

Oh boy, this is what I was waiting for.. the safari gaming park. Animals that run free throughout, nursery petting area and zoo all in one. LOVE IT.

Lydia petting a animal from the raccoon family.

McKenzie holding a ferret.

Lydia was in heaven. I have never seen her so happy, surrounded by all these animals. Afterwards she said she wants to be a vet. Love her smile as she holds this possum.

Sarah petting a descented skunk. I don't think she trusted that information from the employee.

I went right in there and said, "Itchy Butt." And gave that skunk the best butt rub of his life. Don't you know that skunk stopped dead in its tracks to get that rub.

This leopard loved Lydia and her purple jacket. He jumped down so fast and charged the area where Lydia was. I had almost forgot that we were protected.

When was the last time you saw a White Tiger. The girls loved it. After we were all done at this safari park, the girls chose a white tiger stuffed animal. And Porter chose a huge snake, that he uses as a lasso and says, "I'm a cowboy."

Llamas are roaming free.

We saw the brown and black bear and decided to buy some food to feed them. We received some vital information about the secret to these bears. The food that you buy there come in a sugarless cone. The employee said to feet the other animals the food inside the cone and save the cones for the bears. Go to the cage where the bears are and tap the cones on the cage. Where then the bears will stand up and talk to you for the cones.

There must have been 30 deer in this herd wandering around the park.

I know this is my fault that Porter doesn't like to get messy. He was so concerned about getting is shoes and pants dirty. Not to mention the poop that was around the park.

When I saw this, I instantly thought of Mary and Joseph in the manger.

We heard lightening and thunder after we just entered the motor home from visiting the safari park. Blessings are so abundant. We are able to see and visit everything and the bad weather has stopped for us. When we start driving again the strong winds and rain start back up. And this has been happening throughout this trip.

After the Safari Gaming Park we went to the Discovery Children's Museum that is all hands. We arrived and walked in and the employee said that we are going to have to close early, you have 30 minutes to play. The town had just received the warning horn that is heard throughout. They are leaning on the side of caution due to the Tsunami a couple of days ago.

Learning how the weather is monitored.

All the girls have their own camera for this trip. They feel so much older because of those cameras.

Learning about Indians

Porter is on the pier exhibit and Scott took a great picture of Porter showing off his jumping skills.

Just a fair maiden waiting for my true love to return from sea.

I think Lydia is making fun of me.....
Not my sweet Lydia.

Scott is such a ladies man!

Back on the road, heading toward the Koa in Wald port, Oregon.

Day 2 of the Canada Trip

2011-03-16T22:53:00.000-07:00

Good morning! It feels great to cook breakfast inside a warm and spacious motor home.

We are slowly waking up from a short night. It rained and rained all night! Well I guess that's why its so green and luscious in the Redwood forest. When Scott and I drove into the camp site, we drove through the Avenue of the Giants. Of course the kids were asleep at 11pm, so I am excited to have them see what Scott and I saw last night. Truly amazing!

Avenue of the Redwoods

EEL River

Here is the last logging cookhouse in California. And we are all hungry! I love this photo. We are so enjoying ourselves.

We instantly made friends with our waitress. Sarah leads over to me and says, "Mom her name is Pam." And then Porter says, "Mom she is my friend. She talks to us and I like her." She came and found me back inside the museum part of the cookhouse and told me that I am going to have this baby sooner than the 7 weeks I have left. I did have to tell her about my record of having over 10 lb babies. She didn't care and she gave me a postcard to send her a picture of baby Hazen and when I delivered. She was just a doll. We gave her a big hug and said good-bye.

I thought my mom was the only one who had a butcher block, but I have always called it a chopping block. Who knows what its called, it reminded me of home!

We had to stop and take a bunch of photos at the beach south of Crescent City. So many cool things that washed up from the Tsunami. The kids found neat keepsakes.

Just as we drove by the elk crossing sign....we saw a herd of elk.

Here we are with Paul Bunyan and Blue.

Mrs Rempfer, Lydia and Sarah's first grade teacher has been talking about Paul Bunyan and Blue for weeks now. It was nice to make that a reality for my girls.

You know boys and their guns! Scott was all over that. Yes, Porter is gun shopping. Cap guns. The caps weren't in yet, thank goodness. We will just pretend for now.

Driving up 101, the beaches/waves were incredible! Our pictures don't do it justice. Here are the pictures from the beaches in Crescent City.

Day 1 of the Trip to Canada

2011-03-16T21:40:00.000-07:00

Scott and I were happily surprised to find out that we could pick up the motor home as early as 6am. They weren't expecting us to pick them up in the motor home after school. We are off and ready the begin our trip to Canada!

Theses are some happy faces for the adventure that our family is about to have.

Porter's new thing is holding up all 10 fingers and saying,"I want ten of ........." My favorite thing that Porter has said to me was, "Mom I love everything you cook and I am going to eat this many things in the pantry....ALL OF IT!"

The three musketeers stuck together for the first day. I surprised the kids with journals so they can document in words or drawings all the stops that we will be making.

Loves to be like his big sisters. And his pen matches his notebook. See MOM!
A little later in the drive, I said,"I am so excited I'm going to cry." Porter says, "If you cry Mom, they will kick you out of Canada."

Being that the motor home is so big, the three kids jumped into the back where the second table is.

Hey, mom broke out all the goodies for this trip. Now we are on to Play-doh.

Lydia said, "How many hours til we get there?" Sarah said, "A long time especially when you live in Lodi."

You may ask yourself, where is McKenzie... she is the co-pilot. And loving every minute of it. I still remember wanting to sit in front and hoping Whitney wouldn't get in first and claim it. The best part of McKenzie being co-pilot, was that Lydia and Sarah didn't care. I don't care how big this motor home is, my loud kids still need to practice voice control. I will let you know how that goes....but I know I have to be the first to start practicing. :)
Today was the longest driving day we are going to have because the excitement is overwhelming and the kids aren't going to notice. Scott and I are going to take advantage of that. And we drove into our camp site in the Redwoods at 11pm.

Stand up for what you believe

2011-03-10T22:21:00.000-08:00

Heavenly Father has definitely sent down the strongest youth to fight for righteousness. With the world what it is today, it cant be easy to stand for the right at age 10; but McKenzie stood and defended the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. After school she told me about the conversation she had with one of her best friends. McKenzie was able to feel the spirit but also be strong and confident as she conveyed what she knew to be true. McKenzie said that the Book of Mormon, if you read it the whole way through, you will feel and know in your heart through the Holy Ghost that the words are true. And our church is the only true church here on earth. This couldn't have been easy for McKenzie, but I asked her if she would defend our church again and she said yes! I am one proud parent! I know that as we continue to read the scriptures each night and choose the right, that my children and family will be blessed. I couldn't be prouder of McKenzie.

My baby girl turned 10

2011-03-10T21:29:00.000-08:00

Happy Birthday McKenzie! My sweet baby girl is turning into such a beautiful sweet young lady! Daddy and I are so proud of the young lady that you are becoming. Thank you for being a great example to your family and a leader with strong values to your friends. Daddy and I are truly blessed to have you as our daughter.


Surprise, McKenzie, clip on earrings!

Gammie and Papa love to spend one on one time with my girls. McKenzie had a wonderful time being wined and dined by her loving grandparents.

There is nothing better than celebrating a birthday with the whole family.

My cutie patootie!

Sarahism

2011-02-16T13:43:00.000-08:00


In the middle of dinner tonight, Sarah said, "Sometimes you just need to get past the smell and then its good!"

Scott and I looked at each other and started to laugh......Love you Sarah.

The chain of Events

2011-02-11T14:29:00.000-08:00

This is a big year for the Campbell Family! The kids and I decided it would be fun to make a chain of all the events leading up to baby Hazen being born. The yellow stars are all the exciting events coming up. We have our trip to Disneyland, McKenzie is turning 10, our trip to Canada, Lydia and Sarah are turning 7, Hazen Taylor being born in May, Porter turns 4, Aunt Whitney and Uncle Ben's little boy will be born in June, our annual Carmel trip in October and then its Christmas again. As uncle Ben said it best, "How are you guys going to top this year?"

Family History

2011-02-08T11:32:00.000-08:00

Saturday, Scott and I had a wonderful opportunity to go to the Sacramento Temple with Laurie and Dave Cundari. I had been looking forward to this day for weeks. My mom and I have been going Genealogy for awhile, so we had names to take to the temple on Saturday. As my mom came to babysit our kids, she gave me the names that we would be taking. One of the names was Hazen Taylor. I couldn't believe it. What an honor! To have Scott take my great great grandfathers name to the temple, while I am carrying our baby boy that will be named Hazen Taylor Campbell. It was a very spiritual moment. And I am so grateful that Scott and I had the opportunity to do temple work that day.

So, So Jealous

2011-02-08T11:03:00.000-08:00


Scott was invited by a customer, Brandon Bo, to go to see the Boston Celtics play the Sacramento Kings. My sweet husband works so hard I and provides so wells for his family I was glad that he was rewarded with this treat! I was so so jealous though. All the kids and I were watching at home to see if we could see Daddy on TV. Scott called and said he was right behind the basket. What great seats!! During the 3 quarter the Kings were ahead so I text Scott and told him that he better come home so the Celtics can win. :) LOL, he responded... that's exactly what I told Brandon! Scott and I have a history of going to games and having our favorite team lose. Thank goodness this time CELTICS WON!!!!

They're off Training Wheels

2011-02-01T20:34:00.000-08:00


On your Mark.... Get Set.... GO! Well, it wasn't exactly that easy for Scott to teach them, but they did a phenomenal job! Lydia was the first to have her training wheels off. Sarah just needed Lydia to show her that Dad can be trusted! You laugh, but that's how she felt.


Scott and I tagged teamed teaching McKenzie how to ride a bike; but this time I was on the side lines.

Porter had a short attention span when it came to wanting to ride his bike.

Look at my girls GO! They cant wait until they go for one of Scott's famous bike rides.

The Happiest Place on Earth

2011-02-01T20:23:00.000-08:00

We enjoyed three days in Disneyland/California Adventure with Gammie, Papa, Uncle Ben and Aunt Whitney. The word enjoy would be an understatement! We had an exceptional time! This was our first big trip as a family and we were fortunate to share this wonderful, and magical experience with our extended family. This was truly a family bonding trip and I can truly say for all of us that we will always remember this!

Space Mountain was hands down the Favorite ride! We left on a Tuesday and the park was empty. For the last hour and a half, that was the only ride they went on! I am so glad that my kids, and I am including Scott, had the time of their life.


For the Tower of Terror you only have to be 40 inches. Porter is 41 1/2. This ride is an elevator that does up, down, then up and down, You never know in which direction you are about to go. All the kids ran out and ran around again, screaming More, More, 3 times riding it back to back.

Here they are ALL!

What a cutie!

If you look close Lydia is NOT happy! While in line for the Rabbit to sign her Minnie Mouse ball cap hat, the Queen of Hearts came over and grabbed it (playing the mean role, which she did quite well; let me tell you) and signed the bill of the hat which was the" Special Spot" saved for Minnie Mouse! With my quick thinking, I then suggested to Lydia that Minnie Mouse could sign her princess Minnie Mouse hat that she is wearing, and that her ball cap hat can be for all the other characters that she sees at the parks. Thank goodness she loved the idea, cause that was my only idea to solve that problem.

We spend a half a day at California Adventures. It was a toss up which park they liked most. They chose to go on the Ferris wheel and picked a car that spun! Surprise, Surprise! Pregnant or not, I don't go on rides that spin! I am a roller coaster gal!

As soon as we arrived at the Marriott, they crashed hard!

I think Scott and I were replaced by Uncle Ben and Aunt Whitney this trip. My kids LOVE LOVE LOVE them! Hopefully they wont' be to jealous when their baby boy arrives in June.

Thank you Scott for the play by play on the Matterhorn!

The pictures tell it all!

Scott was so thoughtful to include me by taking photos while being on the rides and taking videos.

My kids loved the Pirates of the Caribbean ride. I did too as kid and still do. That was one of the rides I was able to go on this trip. I still remember riding it and asking Mom and Dad if we could eat at that restaurant sometime. That was a great experience as a kid.

Climbing the tree house near the Indiana Jones Adventure Ride.

Love those faces!

I am so proud of my children! Not a complaint, whine, whimper, nothing but pure excitement and high energy for 11 hours a day for three days! With Aunt Whitney and myself being pregnant it wasn't hard to keep up. All we had to do was look at the children's faces and that's what kept us going!

Who's a Sunbeam?

2011-01-01T13:48:00.000-08:00

Porter is officially a Sunbeam. I cant believe it! My little boy.

Happy New Year

2011-01-01T13:36:00.000-08:00


We love the Cundari's! We were so excited to bring in the New Year with them. What amazed me the most was how many of my kids were still up at midnight! There was no question where the photo was going to be taken...Lydia was asleep...so I guess we will crowd around her, my little sleepy head. Laurie and Dave are our best friends! Every month we come together for game night. Boys vs Girls. I will be honest and say that the Boys win most of the time. But that doesn't stop Laurie and I from doing a little trash talk every now and again ( harmless/playful fun) The four of us are very competitive and very similar in many ways, so it makes for a rowdy, and lively good time. Scott and I are so grateful for their friendship and love in our lives.

Merry Christmas From all of Us to You

2011-01-01T12:32:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas from the Campbell's, Lichty's and Adamska family!

Its a wonderful feeling for a mother and father to see the happy, smiling faces on their children's faces as they race down the stairs to see what Santa has brought them.

Every year Scott takes the kids out Christmas shopping one by one. They always do a great job on a budget! Its amazing the cool stuff they find for each other that I would never think of getting. Its great to see my children think of others and to watch the excitement that they have for the person opening their gifts.

Lydia received a voice recorder for Christmas and the first thing that she said on it was, "Daddy has STINKY farts!" She had us all laughing. Lydia is so funny.

Scott and I have been planning a Big surprise for the kids this year for Christmas. We decided to have the surprise spelled out in boxes.

One box, one word per child.

Spells out:

"We're Going to Disneyland!"

Well I do have to say the excitement wasn't what Scott and I had anticipated at all. As the kids were opening the first three boxes they shouted out...."We're Going to Canada!" And we said no, that's not it. We are going to Canada in March... But their is another surprise. We have been hyping up Canada so much that when they opened the last box saying Disneyland, they said, "OH!"

Scott and I are glad that they are that exited about taking a 10 day motor home trip to Canada. Its our first big trip as a family. Something that they will always remember....if not, you know I will have millions of photos documenting that big event!

Lydia was so excited to give Gammie her present that she purchased at the 10cent store at Lakewood school. Gammie loved her new scarf!

This year Gammie has been slaving away making the children's gifts!

We were spoiled rotten with her remarkable talent!

Christmas 2010 Talent Show

The best talent this year was the opening act! Performed by Aunt Whitney and Uncle Ben! Whitney was blowing on her finger, which somehow magically made her stomach grow.

They then revealed that she is pregnant! And due in June. We are extremely happy for the both of them. They are going to make wonderful parents.

Magic Show

Recorder Recital

Guess what animal

Acrobatic Show

Synchronized Swimming

Hand Knitting Demonstration

Bubble Gum Blowing Contest/Lessons

Narrative of Mother Mary & Mary and the Importance of this Holiday Season.
Lydia: Mother of Mary
Kenna: Mary

Its a BOY!

2010-12-24T23:56:00.000-08:00

At the doctor visit on Thursday, McKenzie wasn't with us because she was in the city with my Aunt Sandy. So Scott and I told her that we would have the doctor write down what the sex of the baby is and seal it in an envelope for all of us to open on Christmas Eve. And that's what we did. It's a BOY!

He will be named "Hazen Taylor Campbell," after my great, great grandfather.

Small town feel

2010-12-22T20:56:00.000-08:00

This is one of the many reasons why I live in Lodi. Every year we have the Biggest Fire Truck in Lodi (as Porter would say) decorated coming down our street singing Christmas songs. Santa is on the loud speaker saying "Merry Christmas" while firemen are passing out candy canes.
That made my children's night!

School Celebrations

2010-12-22T20:50:00.000-08:00

It was a big week for my girls and a big one for me too. I stayed all week with my girls at school. I was sure tired by the end of the day. Hey, parties cant be great without the help of parents! And we put on fantastic parties for the kids.

Porter was thrilled to help with the vacuuming! That is one of his favorite jobs.

McKenzie's 4th grade class played a beautiful song with their recorders. It was a great way to start off the morning.

Lydia and Sarah were singing Christmas carols. I try to listen to Christmas songs as much as I can during this holiday season. And to have my girls sing them, melted my heart! Lets see if you can spot them.

Last day before break! Can you tell.

Yep, Porter found a chair and he fits right in.

Getting Ready for the Big Day

2010-12-22T20:38:00.000-08:00

My parents are very creative. And this year we borrowed their spiral Christmas tree that hangs from the ceiling. I love this tree.

Thanks for decorating kids. We are now off to A&W to end a perfect night.

Movie night anyone?

2010-12-22T20:29:00.000-08:00

Scott surprised us all.... taking us to a Drive-in up in Sacramento.

Double feature: Mega-Mind and Shrek 4

Trunk or Treat

2010-12-22T20:19:00.000-08:00

Halloween was on a Sunday this year, so we went to church on Saturday to participate in the Truck or Treat. The kids had a blast.

A few hours before the Trunk or Treat, Aunt Whitney and Uncle Ben were in charge of a Harvest Festival. It was great to see them and it was a big hit!

Tot Basketball

2010-12-22T20:13:00.000-08:00

Porter was a star! Every game he scored at least 2-3 baskets.

Porter is showing off that he just scored 2 baskets! Go Porter!!

Daddy is so proud.

Notice Porter is sporting the high socks every game. Because Daddy wears high socks when he plays church basketball.

Hands in the air....Playing defense

Living and Loving Carmel

2010-12-22T17:13:00.002-08:00

Another wonderful vacation with the Adamska/Campbell/Lichty clan. What a marvelous family I have!

Fun at the beach was had by all.

Yes, that is my hubby swimming with dolphins and seals!

We had to take a picture of McKenzie by this art museum. Grandma gave her an art lesson on how to draw/paint this. It was hanging up in McKenzie's room.

See you guys next October! Thanks Mom and Dad for a great vacation every year!

Go Soccer!

2010-10-17T13:24:00.000-07:00

Great action shots from Lydia and Sarah's soccer game.

We love to watch them play!
Lydia is so fast.

Sarah is so aggressive.

They work well as a team.

Celebrating a win with ice cream.