It's hot outside.

It's hot outside so I decided to post something pretty to make me feel better. Really hasn't helped.

Still a pretty picture.

My 14 year old won't shut up!

Terrific Teachers.

The kid's teachers were fantastic this year. Brijit Elkins, who is Soren's teacher was the perfect match for him. He loved going to school everyday and seeing his teachers and friends. I am excited that he has developed a love for reading. It was a blessing to know that when I sent my kids off to school everyday that they were being loved at school.

Kendal is one of Soren's classmates and friends. She had to get a picture with him. Soren adores Kendal. There were many days when Soren would come home from school with stories about what Kendal and he did during the day. Soren definitely has a soft spot for the girls.

Ms. Janis was the E.A. in the classroom. I know I said Soren was lucky to have a great teacher, well he is extra lucky because he had Ms. Janis. He would tell me that she was funny. I love to see my kids smile!

I went in to get pictures of the teachers and the classroom were all packed up and ready for summer. Some of the kids weren't at school for the last day. These kids are the ones who were there. On top of having great teachers, Soren had some great friends this year.

Ella also had a fantastic teacher. Barbara Caffrey had a very full classroom and was able to do it all. Ella came away from this year at school with more confidence in her intellect and her ability to try new things. She knows that if she has to do something hard all she has to do is practice, practice, practice. Ella found it pretty funny that she grew taller than her teacher this year.

Thanks to Rio Rancho Elementary School for giving my children a great education and lots of love. Everyone there seems to know my kids and treats them with such kindness. Well done!

Olivia's Preschool graduation.

Last night was Olivia's preschool graduation over at our house. There are six kids who participated this year. Eli was having a tough time and was not in this picture. The kids said the pledge of allegiance for us. Soren was telling Olivia what a great job she did. It was so sweet.

Eli getting his award. He was having a meltdown before this, but he pulled himself together and received his award. It had to be a little overwhelming with all the people staring at them taking pictures. I can't blame him one little bit.

Our little Olivia. I can't believe two things here. First that she doesn't have her finger up her nose and second how big she is getting.

This is Cesar. He was so funny during the songs. He wouldn't sing them because he was mad he had to were this shirt.

Carly sang the loudest. She told me that when she grows up she wants to be a coal miner and a person who dives and feed the sharks. A little dangerous don't you think?

Aiden is Olivia's first love. She tells everyone that she is going to marry him. I think that Aiden is glad that preschool is over so he doesn't have to fight Olivia off.

Emma is suborn, but in a cute way. Both Emma and Olivia are the babies of big families and boy can you tell. One second they would have a spat and in the next they would be hugging each other. Most of the time it was over who was going to be the "Mom" during their time playing house.

Cesar's Mom taught the kids a song in Spanish. So funny.

This was Eli trying to get away from everyone. I thought it was so funny how he was trying not to look at me.

I can't believe how fast time is going. My last child will be going to school next year and I don't know if I am excited or sad. I guess a little of both. One thing is for certain. These kids are so dang cute!

Way to go Anna!

We are so proud of Anna. Last night was her Middle Schools Honor assembly. The teachers pick a select few students that have shown exceptional growth, character and talent in a certain subject. Anna's reading teacher Mrs. Ware, nominated Anna.

Anna switched schools in the middle of the year because of some issues that were happening at the other school. This put her in a difficult position of playing catch up with her group.

This amazing girl has had to work very hard to overcome some obstacles to get where she is at. By far, she is one of the hardest workers I have ever seen. She is so determined to succeed.

Thank you to all of Anna's teachers at Lincoln Middle School. You all have done an outstanding job with our daughter. She has gained so much confidence in what she is doing. As Anna's parents we have seen a huge change in her attitude toward school and learning. You all deserve an A+!

Ella, Soren and Anna showing their excitement.

Mother's Day in the mountains.

This is how my morning started out. The kids brought Troy and I breakfast in bed. They emptied out one of their toy buckets to use as a tray. Soren sprinkled M&M's in the bucket because he thought it would be romantic. I want you all to take notice of Troy's Almondbutter.

The past week had been very stressful for me so I just wanted to get out of town for the day. I decided on a day hike up in the Jemez mountains. It was the perfect day to do it. Sunny skies, a small cool breeze and it wasn't to hot.

We made a couple of quick stops to let the kids see some falls and climb on them.

We took along one of Logan's best friends Dylan. He is on top of the rock sitting. Logan is watching him try to get down.

The kids accumulated a few injuries during the day. I just happened to get a picture of Anna right after one of hers. She stood up and scratched her back on the cave. I know you all aren't surprised by my kids getting hurt. It's just rare that I get a picture of it. I wish I had gotten a picture of Logan falling backwards over a rock holding two of the dogs. Know that was funny.

I am surprised Soren didn't get wet.

Molly loved the water. Look at Fred watching her. He did not love the water.

Now the next few pictures are interesting. Logan claims that Troy pushed him in the water. I watched the whole thing and I KNOW that Troy did not push him in.

There he goes. Watch how Troy just watched him.

Next Troy's arms go out. He didn't do it!

Still the arms.

Troy didn't even bother to help him out of the water. He just kept his arms out.

It was wonderful to be out in nature breathing in the fresh air. I thought it very fitting that I was needing Mother Nature's healing power on Mother's day.

The New Mexico red rocks have totally captivated me.

The dogs enjoyed their day out too.

Spring is here and the bright green in contrast with the red rock is stunning.

I was able to spend a fantastic fun filled day all because of this man. My wonderful husband.