The Los Angeles Temple and Tito's Taco's too.

On Saturday, March 7, Adam and the Young Men and Young Women went to the temple to do baptisms. I drove 6 deacons down in Jens' car. What fun we had. It was wonderful being in the temple with Adam. Jaime Yager joined me on the way home. But first, we went to Titos Tacos. Titos Taco is a tradition. Great Tacos and great fun. Adam was so happy to be inside the temple. It was a wonderful day.

Tree Yager, Zack Eschenberg, Tyler Macdonald, Landen Woolley and Sam Thomas


Adam and Titos Tacos - so yummy!!!


3 tacos each and a 7 up.

Anna and the Living Museum

Anna is in the 4th grade this year. One of her assignments was to read a book about a person that has a California connection. She learned about Condoleezza Rice. Then, she prepared a speech, and a poster. This morning she became part of the Living Museum. Along with all the 4th grades, she delivered her speech as Condoleezza Rice. When someone touched the globe, she delivered her speech in 1 minute and 30 seconds. She did a great job. We learned a lot about Condoleezza Rice. She is amazing person with lots of talents.



Anna as Condoleezza Rice



Anna given her speech.



There were lots of Walt Disney, Mia Hamm and Tony Hawk. There were a few Shirley Temple and lots of Sport stars.



Haylee McGovern and Anna



Walt Disney and his friends

Adam's first Campout with the Young Men

Adam went to his first campout as a 12 year old Scout. The troop went to Malibu State Park. They left on Friday, February 27 and came back late Saturday afternoon. Adam had a great time. He said the boys were really nice to him. He wasn't homesick at all. I was so grateful that he had a great time. I was a little worried. The boys in the ward have just really welcomed Adam in the deacon's quorum with open arms. At the campout, on Saturday, they went rock climbing. They are working toward the Rock Climbing merit badge. Adam was a little nervous, but did end up trying it.

Zach Eschenberg, Tree Yager, Tyler Macdonald, Sam Thomas.

Adam trying rock climbing


The view from the top.


Adam and Tyler Macdonald

Adam turned 12 on February 21, 2009. He will now receive the Priesthood. On of his duties as a 12 year old priesthood holder is to pass the sacrament. So, every Sunday he wears a tie. Jens taught him how to tie a tie. Now he does this every Sunday. He hates wearing a tie. Oh well, at least you don't have to wear nylons. I love that I have pictures of Adam learning this aspect of life. It is a right of passage.

Happy Birthday!!! Adam

Adam turned 12 today. I can't believe it. He was so excited. We went to Country Harvest for breakfast. Adam asked his friend, Dylan to come with us. He found all his birthday presents this year by "accident". So I told him that I took them all back to the store. He wasn't sure after I told him. So, it was a little bit of a surprise for him. The waitress brought out a muffin with a candle. Then, at home he unwrapped Mario Kart Wii and looked through his birthday coupon. His favorite birthday coupon was YOU WIN the argument. There is only one of those coupons. I told him to use it wisely. Grandma and Grandpa called to sing Happy Birthday. He had a cute little smile on his face. Tomorrow we will have Curry Meatballs and dessert. He will receive the Priesthood at church. It is a big weekend for him.

Happy Birthday, Adam. We are so blessed to have you in our family. XOXO from Mom and Dad.

Olivas Adobe with Anna

Anna is studying California History this year in School. I went with her to the Olivas Adobe. The Olivas Family owned one of the largest rancho in Southern California. It covered an area from Santa Barbara to Camarillo. They were a large family consisting of 23 kids. I can't even image. It was one of the best field trips I have ever been on with one of the kids.

Anna roping a bull.

Anna in the mud that was used to make the adobe brickes.

Anna smashing corn for tortillas.

One the dresses of the Olivas' daughters. Anna thought it was so pretty.

Jake is a Shining Star

Jake is a Shining Star. At Sycamore Canyon each child in elementary school is given an award throughtout the year. It was Jake's turn. Mrs Guevara, his 2nd grade teacher wrote the following:

Jake is a wonderful young man who has some large talents. He is a great writer who finishes his written assignments quickly with a spare, to-the-point style. The acting bug has bitten Jake too, and he brings a flair and wit to our class discussions. Jake is also a kind and helpful student to everyone in Room 16.

While I believe this all about Jake; I sometimes wonder where that little boy is when Jake comes home from school. Isn't it at home that we can be our true selves? I wish he did his homework a little more quickly.