The Big Kids

I picked the big kids up from school and we headed straight to ballet. Ryan finished his homework on the way and played DS while I read my scriptures and flipped through magazines waiting for the girls to finish. Every couple minutes I interupted him to tell him about a verse or show him something I wanted. Maybe I just couldn't handle so much quiet. When ballet was finished we walked down the street to a Mexican restaurant and had chips and salsa and quesadilla's as we talked about school and life. Then we walked across the street to the Riverwalk and headed South on the path instead of North. The big kids balanced on cement walls, ran up and down the hills, climbed trees, played on the railroad tracks and gave each other piggy back rides. These three do get along well... except when the girls plant surprise kisses on Ryan's cheeks. We walked for about an hour exploring cute little gardens and new gazebos... and I just took pictures. By the time we got home there was hardly time to finish our jobs. Oh well, we'll do them tomorrow. Fun to be out with just the big kids. (More pictures on Ryan's blog)

Alone in my own house.

Chris took off yesterday for a Radiology conference at University of Utah. A couple of months ago he proposed the idea that he take Luke and Megan to Utah with him, and they could stay with Grandma and Grandpa during the day while he was gone. I paused to think about it while Chris continued... "You'll be all alone during the day while the big kids are at school." That's all it took. Chris' parents were thrilled with the idea and I can't even describe how excited Megan has been. She's been counting down the days for a month and has been asking, "When is my special trip with Dad?"... "When is five days over?" ... "When is it Sunday?" ... "Which Grandma and Grandpa am I going to see again?" She helped me pack her suitcase with bags full of outfits so she could dress herself (and hopefully match), she helped fold laundry, she picked out new coloring books and crayons for the plane ride, she put all of her hair clips in a bag, she tried telling Luke all about their adventure but he wouldn't listen, and she told the big kids "I'm going to see Rob and Kayla!" So exciting!

So here I am, Monday morning, alone in my own house while the big kids are at school. I think I'll eat breakfast without the Backyardigans. I think I'll scrapbook. I think I'll read my scriptures in silence. I think I'll blog. I think I'll shower and get ready uninterrupted. I think I'll eat Fudge Oreo cookies without sharing or even sneaking them out of the pantry. I think I'll straighten the family room and enjoy it clean for the whole day. I think I'll flip through magazines over lunch. I think I'll take a nap. I think I'll call Chris and tell him I love him. Alone in my own house... feels like I'm in heaven.

Car Wash

Ryan wanted to wash the van for one of his Weblos achievements and coincidentally we had a van that needed to be washed... imagine that. As soon as Luke saw the garage door open and saw what was going on he rushed out to be a part -- with no shoes even, but I figured his socks weren't the only thing that were going to get wet and I was right.

Luke was so fascinated by the whole car-washing concept. Ryan showed him how to spray the van and he eagerly watched and blinked as the mist sprayed him in the face. But the real fun began when he found the bucket of soapy water. He saw Ryan sticking his hands in the water so he followed suit and came up with a handful of bubbles each time which he stared at and then quickly wiped across his shirt... over and over... about 50 times. Ryan couldn't keep from laughing and try as I did, I could NOT get him to look up at me... too interested in the bucket of bubbles. Everything is fun when you are a 15 month old little boy.

(Love this little shirt he is wearing... just cuz it was Ryan's.)

60 Memories of Dad

Now that Dad got these in the mail I can post them. For his 60th birthday we compiled a list of 60 memories we have of him... funny, happy, meaningful. Thanks for the memories, Dad.

I remember when you drove me to dances in Burnaby. It was a long way to drive… and I remember you volunteering and seeming happy to do it. I probably didn’t appreciate it then. Thanks. (Lisa)

I have fond memories of going on camps with Dad. I specifically remember the early father and son camps, some of Mikes winter camps that dad brought me along on, and of course the two Super activities: hiking the Styne Valley, and canoeing Powell River. Do you remember how fun portaging was? (Brian)

I remember watching the news, 24, Alias, Lost, or some other documentary with Dad, always with popcorn, and sometimes with a slab of heavenly hash ice cream. (Brian)

I remember the visit to Denver after Foster was born. Dad spent the whole weekend 'oohing' and 'aahing;' not over Foster, more like, 'Ooh, my back hurts' and 'Aah, I can't move!' We hope the back pain is a memory soon! (Scott)

I remember waking up on Saturday morning to “Alright, we have some good projects to work on this morning.” Not only did it teach me the value of having children to increase your work force, but it let me experience the satisfaction of working hard to get a job done before taking time for myself. An afternoon of bike riding was always more enjoyable when we felt we had earned it. (Dan)

Remember this line? “I had the most amazing experience today… but I can’t tell you about it.” That happened every Sunday while Dad was a Bishop. Still, it gave him an opportunity to bear testimony of the spirit and the sanctity of that calling and we felt it. I sure appreciate your example. (Amy)

I remember when Grandpa set up that game in his backyard and we had to hit the balls through those white wire things. That was fun. (Emily)

I remember you borrowing my laser pen for a presentation because they were too expensive for you to buy one of your own at the time. (Mike)

I remember the West Coast Trail, Broken Islands and Tweedsmuir Provincial Park. These were great trips and I loved sharing the adventure with my Dad. (Scott)

I remember emotion-filled testimonies at church and stake meetings that helped strengthen my own. (Dan)

Dad bought me a ring for one of my Young Women in Excellence meetings. It’s gold with two hearts on it, symbolizing the love of both of my parents. I still have it. The meaning of it always made me feel so special. (Amy)

I remember several years back, when Mom was away on vacation somewhere; Dad and I had a great time doing all sorts of fun stuff together. We rode the motorcycle around the neighborhood, had lunch at Quizznos, went to a garage sale where Dad bought me a set of golf clubs, went to the driving range, rented a movie, and had a BBQ. (Brian)

I remember one day when you gave us one penny for every Lego we could find around the house. There must have been a lot hanging around for it to inspire such a task. I think I get my creative cleaning mind from you. (Lisa)

I remember motorcycle rides...both in Utah and Vancouver. I can't wait for the next one! (Scott)

I remember how a couple of times Dad would spontaneously take me to the movies. It didn’t matter wither or not we knew what was playing. We just went. (Brian)

Whenever Mike and I would catch Mom and Dad kissing, we would rub our fingers together and say “Shame, Shame.” Dad would tease us about sharpening our fingers and chase after us which, of course, developed immediately into a tickle fight. (Amy)

I remember you taking me down to Ricks one year. We couldn’t find a vacant room at any hotel and spent the night in the Wal-Mart parking lot sleeping in the car. After a McDonalds breakfast we finally found a room, took a nap and then went to go see ‘The Fugitive’ in the theater. It was a crazy day but a great one. (Lisa)

I remember how fun it was to play Nintento Wii with Dad when it first came out. Dad got so excited about showing people who hadn’t played it. (Brian)

I remember grandpa teaching me how to stage a dramatic death after being shot by a "finger-pistol." (Molly)

I remember when you would call as I was studying in the library. I enjoyed the break from studying and telling you about my business, economics, and accounting classes, which you were more excited about than I was. We never talked once with without you saying, “That is so good that you are learning these things,” or “The things you are learning will serve you the rest of your life.” (Mike)

I remember that fresh snow at age 16 meant an excellent opportunity to practice driving in inclement conditions, regardless of when school started. (Dan)

I remember how excited and informed he is about current events around the world and his love for the Economist publication, which inspired me to subscribe as well. (Chris)

I remember that you have a talent of making your grandkids think that just ‘answering Grandpa’s questions’ could be fun. (Lisa)

Along time ago Dad took me and my best friend at the time, Nick Taylor, to Whistler. We went hiking, saw some sights, ate at McDonalds, and went to some shops. (Brian)

I remember seeing the events of my life physically mapped out on life-sized poster board. It must have worked, since all the pencil is filled in with ink by now. (Dan)

I remember sitting on the plywood seat of a pulley swing hanging over the edge of a giant gravel pit in Golden Ears Provincial Park almost in tears pleading with you not to let go of the rope. You did let go, and I love giant swings and zip-lines to this day. (Mike)

When the Nissan Sentra Dad gave me finally died, Dad drove down to Utah to help me look for a new car. I’m so glad he likes those kinds of things because it would have been miserable without him! (Amy)

I remember that giving you a ‘barbarian’ rugby shirt was always what we wanted to get you for Christmas. When I brought home a ‘BYU barbarian rugby shirt’ I was sure I hit the jackpot…and you loved it. (Lisa)

I remember going on motorcycle rides with Dad. I particularly remember going fast over the bridge, and going “the long way home” after cleaning the office, or getting picked up from mutual activities.(Brian)

I remember learning how to survive on any road trip or outing with just the bare essentials: fresh buns, deli cut ham, and mustard. It’s still reminds me of lunches at the van at Manning Park, breaking from a morning of skiing to refuel and feed the Whisky Jacks. (Dan)

I remember on the Caribbean Cruise, Dad was the only one on the ship buttering his donuts and Danishes... well, Grandpa Walton Senior was going this too. As a side note, if Dad is visiting, and you find your butter dish missing from the countertop, look in the fridge. (Scott)

I remember when we bought Dad leather chaps for Christmas. He was so excited he put them on and wore them to breakfast. I can’t remember when I have seen him that giddy. (Amy)

I remember how excited I was to meet dad in the Kaohsiung airport when he picked me up from my mission and how excited he was to be there. It was so fun to show him around the areas I served because he was genuinely fascinated with everything we did and saw. What a great memory. Thanks, dad. (Dan)

I remember Dad hassling me about going on more dates or being more social. “Just take her to a show or something!” he would say, or, “Why don’t you go do something with some friends tonight?” (Brian)

I remember when you told me you sold the Honda CB 650, and the disappointment I felt. You called me back a little while later and told me you bought it back again so you could ride with your sons when we came home to visit. That was a great day. (Mike)

I remember going on a walk with Grandpa and Grandma and my sisters and Grandpa and me would feed bread to the ducks (until it got banned.) (Ryan)

I remember that every time to see me you give me a big hug and tell me how much you love me and what a great daughter I am. Thanks for that. (Lisa)

I remember giving Dad his motorcycle chaps for Christmas one year...I've never seen a grown man so giddy. (Scott)

Dad was the one you went to when you needed treats for your party. He would load up the cart with all kinds of junk food. He made the best specialty ice cream too. Take Oreos and crush them into vanilla ice cream? Brilliant! Honestly, Dad, how did you come up with this stuff? (Amy)

I remember every time David visited us in DuPont he always treated us to take out from Happy Teriyaki. Oh, how I miss that place. (Chris)

I remember dad being the hit of every father son camp and ward corn husk when he pulled out his homemade bottle rocket launcher. It seemed to bring out the kid in everyone, especially dad. (Dan)

I remember driving with you, just the two of us, and you letting me listen to my Milli Vanilli tape. I think you maybe even sang along to ‘Blame it on the Rain’ with me. (Lisa)

One time Dad took some friends and I to Golden Ears. We found a rocky spot with a shallow river flowing around it, and cooked hot dogs over the old fire bucket. (Brian)

I remember fathers blessings, priesthood ordinations and getting set apart for my mission. Thanks for your example and setting a high bar for honoring the Priesthood. (Scott)

I remember starting each school year with a blessing from a father worthy of and willing to share his priesthood. (Dan)

I remember many episodes of Cheers during dinner. Nothing bonds a family like watching others waste their lives away in a bar. (Amy)

I remember Mount. Nebo, Stave Lake, Green Drop Lake, Vancouver Island, Mount. Baker, Duffy Lake, Trek Site Reconnaissance Missions, and countless evening motorcycle rides throughout the summers. (Mike)

I remember being together at the Johnson Historic Farm in Kirtland. You bore your testimony to us and we all felt the spirit. Thank you for continually sharing your testimony and strengthening ours. (Lisa)

My grandpa plays Pictionary with me every time we are together and it is very fun. Also, he likes vehicles. (Katie)

I remember when you came to visit us in Georgia after Luke was born. We watched ‘Hairspray’ and you couldn’t help but get up and dance. Soon all the kids were dancing too. You make things fun for my kids. Thanks for being a good grandpa. (Lisa)

I remember personal time with dad on fast Sundays for father’s interviews. (Dan)

I remember riding around the neighborhood on Grandpa’s motorcycle. It was so fun to feel the wind. It was also fun to be just with Grandpa. (Ryan)

I remember thinking you were a great cook because you could make things like steak and homemade potato chips. I remember we had that for dinner one night when Mom was gone. (Mike)

I remember when I was riding on Grandpa’s back like a horse. (Megan)

I remember stopping to look at hundreds of motorcycles over the years, and you saying, “wouldn’t this be so much fun!?” I remember thinking our trip to the Stelnicki’s was just another sightseeing trip until you actually made an offer. I was as excited. And, I remember laying down your new bike in the church parking lot that same day. (Mike)

I remember red socks, lather 'n shave, rhubarb-rhubarb and Gringo Sheriff Stick 'em up. (Scott)

I remember personal, face to face conversations with grandpa on our cell phones. (Molly)

I remember you spending an evening constructing a fully operational pulley demonstration for my 7th grade science project. I think it won the “Obviously Had Help From a Parent” award. (Mike)

My Dad

There are a lot of people who look up to my Dad... but no one more than me.

He is righteous, kind, honorable, faithful, quirky, hugable, fun, hard-working, caring, determined, smart, passionate, interesting, giving, and wonderful.

I've always looked up to him.
I've watched him righteously fulfill callings.
I've ridden on the back of his motorcycle.
I've tried to tickle him but always got tickled instead.
I've heard his tearful heartfelt testimony.
I've adopted his frustration for missing scissors.
I've gone on memorable trips with him.
I've felt his support as I made decisions throughout my life.
I've watched him work hard and give much.
I've gone on road trips with him singing Milli Vanilli.
I've laughed at his made up stories.
I've discussed the gospel and enjoyed great talks.
I've watched him be a great grandpa.
I've always been amazed at his quick creativity.
I've learned how to drive a stick with him as my instructor.
I've listened to him explain economics (over and over).
I've been there through years of Family Home Evenings and scripture studies.
I've eaten his popcorn.
I've received his special father's blessings.
I've always felt loved.

I hope I have received some of his traits. He's my dad, and I love him.

Happy 60th Birthday, Dad.

(to make a picture like mine go here).

Little Boy Heaven

Another afternoon at Little Creek Farm.

"Want to go see the horsies, Luke?" Luke's ears perk up as we drive on the dusty roads back to the farm and I can hardly get his seat belt off fast enough. He walks a couple steps, stops at the distant whinny of a horse, points, looks back at me, walks a couple steps, sees the dogs, changes directions towards the dog, stops as the buzz of a bee swooshes past his ear, spots a ball, looks back at me with big blue eyes and starts his wobbly run.

He loves everything, the squirrels running up the trees, the horses, the tractors, the three dogs, the abandon balls lying by the house, and yes, the dirt. He loves the dirt. I could barely get a picture of him looking up. Every couple steps he had to bend down and grab a handful. He is slow walking anywhere because he has to take in every sight and sound, point, grunt and stop to pick up dirt. But I'm slow too, so it's ok.

I love our monthly trips here just as much for Luke's sake. It is little boy heaven.


While Ryan and Katie go get their horses from the field, Emily, Megan, Luke and I wander down the lane to look at the horses.

Katie and Rosie.

Ryan and Moe.

St. Patrick's Day

Enjoying our annual St. Patrick's Day 'GREEN DINNER'... green jello, spinach and pear salad, broccoli, peas, cucumbers, limeade with cut up limes floating on top and mint chocolate chip ice cream for dessert. What a fun day... no one got pinched in this family... even Dad came home with his army greens on.

Blue eyed boy

Just waiting for ballet to finish...

Brian's Mission Call

My youngest brother, Brian, got his mission call on Friday. He kept it sealed for 14 hours until he and Mike could finish their classes and head down to Scott and Elisha's house in Utah, and open it together with Amy, while skyping Mom and Dad and on speaker phone with Dan and Sarah. I tried to stay up for the fun but at midnight just had to go to bed... so he reinacted it with us the next morning. But before that we got our globe out and had fun making our guesses as a family... one foreign and one stateside.

Chris Australia - New York State

Lisa France - Toronto, Ontario

Ryan Ireland - Texas

Katie Spain - California

Emily Scotland - Alabama

Megan Wales - Florida

Brian is headed to the Tempe, Arizona Mission... on July 8th. And for a guy who loves winter snowstorms and hates the heat... it's kind of foreign. But I think he's up for the challenge!

So I guess that makes Katie closest with her California guess since a little sliver of California is in his mission.

Congrats, Brian! We love you.

When your 'almost 4 year old' hands you lemons…

make lemonade.

Well, this story isn’t really about lemons or lemonade. It’s about a certain ‘almost four year old’ daughter who cut her own hair... again. Yes, the very same one who cut it only months ago. The same daughter who was punished and told never to cut her hair again. The same daughter who distinctly said, “I will never do it ever again, Mom” amid her tears. Ya, well, that daughter must want to be a hairdresser because not only did she cut her hair but she went into her bathroom, stood on the stool and looked right into the mirror to watch herself cut it… I imagine because of the evidence. She gave herself some very ‘layered’ bangs and cut about half way up on both sides. When asked why (which was pretty much all I could come up with at that point) she said, “I wanted my hair to look different.” I said nothing else, but the disappointment in my eyes invoked another promise. “I will never ever do it ever again, Mom”

Yesterday we went to the salon. I gave the instructions “Do something.” and my hairdresser went to work. Voila… Lemonade. Besides Ryan saying she looked kind of like an alien… we like it. It seems to match her personality… ‘short, spunky and does whatever it wants’.

How to eat a donut.

Bite it.

Squish it.

Stare at it.

Break into pieces and throw to the floor.

Look at all the pieces all over the floor and say 'uh-oh' even though it wasn't a mistake.

Have a drink to wash it down.

Do a fake laugh.

Be silly.

Make sure you get sticky all the way into your hair.

Make a funny face.

Stare at mom with a dazed expression.

Get very tired.

Tub Buddies

These two kids are clean, well at least they should be with how often they take baths. Whenever one is in the tub, the other one comes running. They giggle and splash and I listen to their every noise while on the computer a foot away in my closet. They aren't the best pictures but they capture how much they love spending each morning in the tub. Yeah for at least starting out the day all clean! Megan - almost four, Luke - 15 months