The Baker Family

My Absence

2011-09-01T22:40:00.000-07:00

Wow, how fast time goes by. I can't believe it has been several months since I blogged. Life has been a bit crazy and I have just gotten out of the habit of really taking the time to do this.

I started working last January on Saturdays only because of the poor economy. In the Spring I started working more PRN hours at a few different Transitional Rehab Centers. I began working 2 day a week and Saturdays. I was definitely glad for this opportunity. I have been doing this as of currently. I just was offered a more permanent weekly hours working at Rocky Mountain Transitional Care Center in Riverton 2 days a week and a few Saturdays a month. I do enjoy working. I love being a Occupational Therapy Assistant. I work with the Elderly and enjoy helping them regain their independence with their Activities of Daily Living. The other therapist I work with are awesome and we have lots of fun working together and with our patients.

I am super excited because my work is now only 5 minutes from my house and from our kids school. It makes it very convenient. I am able to be home from work by 3:30 or 4:oo pm which is the same time as Drew and Dane get home from school. I am just glad I only have to work two day a week because I enjoy being home on those other days with Luke. Besides their is so much to do in taking care of the house and preparing meals and helping the kids with their homework each week. Because of work it makes me prioritize my time better...except for blogging. I need to do better with this. I have so much to catch up on but I am too far behind so to catch up the year in a nutshell I am going to post 1 or 2 pics from each month and call it good. So hear we go!

Drew & Dane Learning To Ski!!

2011-03-06T22:21:00.001-08:00

Drew & Dane At Alta Ski Resort

Drew & Dane Getting Ready To Take on the Rope Tow!!

A Bit Tricky Getting Them To the Hill With All Their Stuff!!

Kent Waxing Our Very Ancient Skis!!

Lets See If I Remember How To Do This...it's been about 10 years!!

Drew & Dane had a Great Time and it was a good sunny day.

Swinging the Spring Away on our new Rocky Mountain Retreat!!

2010-05-15T20:57:00.000-07:00

Dane, Drew, & Luke Playin on their new Swing Set. They are thrilled and love it. Kent and his extra help is just glad he is done building it.

Luke climbing the ladder and ready to explore!!

The kids having a great ole time!!

Drew & Dane playin train slide!!

Our cute little Luke growing too fast...he loves the slide!!

Dane was our cute little Bull in our ward Pioneer Play!!

He made the whole audience laugh like crazy.

Here is our Bull getting ready to BUCK!!

Watch out for this BULL! Yeah, Mom says watch out for those Aggies!!

Audra & Drew being girly girls together!! Audra loved sleeping over at our house for 10 days in May!!

Dane & Gabe hanging out together...being BOYS!! Gabe is watching Luke eat his Cookie Monster Cake!!

Luke says: "COOKIE MONSTER eat my cookies"!! Mom couldn't resist buying this for Luke when she saw it at the store.

Luke LOVES Cookie Monster!!

OUR BIRTHDAY BOY...DANE!!

2010-05-02T15:16:00.000-07:00

Dane Celebrating his 6th Birthday in St. George at Grandma Hill's House with family!!

Wii...Lego Star Wars!! Loves it!! Plays it all the time for hours!

Dane's with his Jedi friends at his Star Wars Party!

Cute Dane waiting for his Light Saber Sword Cup Cakes, Jedi Pizza, and Yodi Sodas! The kids LOVED it!!

JEDI Dane opening all of his Birthday presents...most of them were Star Wars Lego's....Ironically!!

All of the Jedi's having a light saber sword fight!

Spring Break in St. George. Drew & Ashley swimming in the Fountains with Luke!

Drew and Dane in Zion's National Park!!

Dad and Luke in Zions trying to get to make it!

Enjoying Zion's National Park with my kiddo's!!

Drew, Dane, Courtney & Dane Climbing the rocks in Zion's!!

Happy Easter 2010

2010-04-07T16:43:00.000-07:00

Drew trying on Easter Bunny Headbands!!

Drew and Luke trying on Easter bunny headbands at Target!!

Can you tell... Dane really didn't want to try this headband on!!

Luke ready to play baseball at Target!

The Easter Egg Hunt at the Baker's House!!

The Easter Egg Hunt...Ready Set Go!! Conference Weekend!

The kids on the Hunt!

Courtney and Dane on the Hunt!!

Luke with all of his Easter Eggs!!

Easter came and went...just like now, half of April is gone. We had a fun easter!! The kids had spring break this weekend. The weather has been crappy. On Sunday morning of Easter we woke up to a couple inches of snow. We are ready for St. George next weekend!!

Drew's Baptism & Birthday...On The Same Day!!

2010-03-21T15:42:00.000-07:00

Drew's Special Day...Her Baptism March 6th, 2010!!

Kent and Drew by the Font!!

Excited Drew...Ready and Waiting!!

Drew getting ready to enter the waters of Baptism!!

Drew pondering the meaning of Baptism!!

After Drew's Baptism with Cousins and Friends!!

The whole family here to celebrate Drew's Baptism and Birthday!

Drew's Awesome Family and Grandparents to support her on this special day!!

The Baker Clan...after Drew's Baptism!!!

Mom and Dad with Drew after her Baptism...we are so proud of her and happy that she is now a member of: ~ The Church of Jesus Christ of Ladder Day Saints~!

Drew with her best gal cousion...Chelsea!!

Melanie, myself, Mom & Tracey...we miss ya Steph! Soon enough you will be on the west coast!!

Drew's with her cousins at her Baptism/Birthday Brunch on March 6th!!

Drew and her friends getting ready to eat her Birthday cake!!

Lighting the candles on Drew's rainbow birthday cake!!

Drew blowing out the candles on her Birthday Cake!! Happy 8th Birthday Drew!!

Drew's Rainbow Cake that wasn't suppose to turn out like this...oh well when is comes to kids they don't care as long as it tastes good!! Long story short. It was suppose to be 5 cake high and when cut a beautiful rainbow. Well mine fell over in the freezer...oops!!

Drew's Baptism turned out to be a fun and special day. I could not help but cry a few tears during her Baptism. I felt the spirit from the talks that were given by her grandparents. I was so happy that Kent is worthy of the preisthood and was able to baptize her. Drew felt very loved and special especially since this day fell on her birthday. All of our family from the Hill and Baker sides came to support Drew. She was so happy they all came to see her get baptized. We are so thankful for the gospel and to be members of this church. It was a perfect day and we will remember it forever!!

Drew Turns Eight...Happy Birthday!!

2010-03-20T20:26:00.000-07:00

These are Drew's Happy Birthday Pictures!!

My friend took these pictures for Drew's Baptism!!

I wanted to get some pictures of her to remember her at this special age.

Drew looks so cute and is growing up fast!!

Our Cute little Drew growing so fast!!

Drew looking all Chic...with her new glasses!!

I can't believe she is Eight...where does the time go!!

We were very happy with how these pictures turned out of Drew. Many of you may have seen the picture of Drew from her Baptism announcement. I decided to post some of the other shots that we had of Drew.

Our President's Weekend to the Discovery Gateway--Children's Museum!!

2010-02-20T15:27:00.000-08:00

Dane playing on the SandHill Crane in the Construction Zone At the Gateway!!

Luke looking for Balls in the Garden. This was by far his favorite place at the Children's Museum!

Dane and Drew playing in the Garden. Working together to keep things Buzzing!

This is Luke playing in the water in the Kid's Eye View at the Musuem. He loved sending this ball down the pipe over and over.

Luke continues to play at the water station. He had lots of fun dipping his had in the water to find the ball.

Luke looking to see where the water is taking the ball!!

Dane exploring in the water at Kid's Eye View Area!!

Drew turning the wheel at the water station in the Kid's Eye View Area!

Our handsome Dane being creative in the water at the Discover Gateway Musuem. He had lots of fun.

Our Adorable Drew exploring all the different water tools at in the Kid's Eye View over Presidents Weekend.

Our Cute little Luke fillin up the truck with gas. He had so much fun doing this. He would then get in the truck and drive and then go back to fillin up the truck with gas!!

Luke Exploring the Construction Zone at the Gateway!

Mom, Luke, Dane, and Drew sitting in the Helicopter on the Terrace at the Discovery Gateway.

Drew taking her turn in the helicopter cockpit!! Maybe she will be a pilot one day?

Drew, Dane & Luke checking out the Helicopter Cockpit.

We had a fun day at the Children's Discovery Museum. The kids were also able to see and explore the Media center, the Story Factory and the Studio. Of course Mom was not on the ball enough to have captured some of these areas mostly because I didn't feel too great from getting a cold. We ended the night by going to Sizzler with the kids since this is a family favorite and perfect place for kids.

Scales & Tales Birthday Party...The Kids Loved it!!

2010-02-03T12:14:00.000-08:00

Dane is holding a giant African Millipede. He said the Millipede was tickling his hands!!

Dane is being a little crazy holding this Red Snake!! It was making me nervous the entire time Dane was holding it!

Dane and the kids from the his class petting the 20 foot Boa-Constrictor...I couldn't beleive it was out and crawling amongist the kids. At the end they presenter decided to get all the snakes out. I thought this was Utterly Crazy!! But none of the Mom's told him to stop.

Luke decided to escape the real reptiles and go for a soft and furry Polar Bear in the other room. Lukie came down with a fever at this party and so his cheeks are very rosey...there was no getting Dane and Drew to leave early.

This is Nicholas who was the Birthday Boy entagled in all these snakes. All the kids thought this was so cool. I wouldn't want to be him...eek!!

Drew holding Flapjack the Tortoise! The funny thing is when she was holding him he started to pee a gallon all over the floor. I don't know how it missed her...thank goodness it did!!

Drew and Luke sneaking in to pet the Boa-Constrictor. Luke wasn't quite sure what to make of this 20 foot snake. But, He was definatley interested in getting by it!!

All the kids lined up and getting ready to hold the 20 foot snake. I had Luke up there all ready to go and when I saw how big this snake was I changed my mind and grabbed him out of there. I was scared he would get knocked over by this huge snake. The other Mom's were laughing at me.

This is the guy that presented all these different scales and tales. The kids thought he was so funny! The snake he is holding is called Peaches, she is a Movie and TV star snake. She was just in that new show Modern Family (sitcom) and she is going to be in the new Napolin Dynamite movie. I am sure peaches has been in lots of other shows too.

This is the big Turtle. Dane and his friend Cade loved petting and seeing these reptiles up close. Luke wanted to ride on him like Braiden but never got the chance.

Dane pulling a silly face!! I am not sure what he is doing unless he is trying to pull a face like this Turtle.

Here is our friend Braiden going for a ride on the big turtle. You can tell he is loving it. The turtle was moving at a pretty good speed with him on top. I think the turtle weighed something like 200 pounds. So I guess Braiden's 24 pounds didn't even slow him down...ironically.

This was quite the Birthday party. Dane, Drew and Luke had such a fun time seeing and touching all these scales and tales! The party lasted about 2 1/2 hours and I still had a hard time getting them to leave. After cake and ice cream and goodie bags they were finally ready to go. This was the end of January when the kids were off track. The next few days was when they all got very sick!! At least they had some fun before the sick ickys!

Our Winter Sledding Adventure!!

2010-01-05T23:10:00.000-08:00

Luke and Dane Loving every minute of this winter Fun!!

Drew & Dane holding on for some sledding fun...Wee!!

Drew, Daddy, & Dane having a blast sledding over Christmas vacation!!

Drew going down the Hill with Dad...hold on tight!

Drew lookin... so stylin on her first real Sledding Adventure!!

Dane & Daddy getting ready to race down the Hill!!

Dane climbing up the Hill as fast as he can...He told his kindergarten teacher that this is what he liked most about Christmas vacation...so much for the Wii!

Luke "Sky" Baker getting ready to explore the snow and loving his boots!!

The kids and Daddy getting ready to go sledding!!

Merry Christmas Family & Friends!!

2009-12-28T14:29:00.000-08:00

Christmas Eve 2009! The kids are so excited for Santa!!

We are getting ready to open our Christmas Eve Presents!

Luke opening his Present from Grandma and Grandpa Hill. He sure had fun opening presents. Anything with paper he was tearing into it, even if it wasn't his.

Dane holding up his new pants and tie from Grandma & Grandpa Hill!!

Drew Showing us her new "Pretty in Pink" sweater from Grandma and Grandpa Hill!!

Our cute Kiddies standing in front of the Christmas Tree!

Dane, Drew and Luke giving us smiles and saying please hurry Santa...we can't wait!!

Look at all the Presents that Santa brought to us! We are spoiled!!

My First Ever Homemade "Sour Cream Lemon Pies" that I made for our Christmas Day Dinner! They were delicious!

Apple Pie - I have made this one a few times!! This is Kent's favorite pie.

Our Baker and Hill Family Christmas Parties!!

2009-12-22T19:12:00.000-08:00

Dane, Mom, & Drew watching Luke open his Christmas present from Ryan.

Our Baker Family Christmas Party in Mendon 2009

Drew Opening her present from Ethan...she got Pixos!!

Steve, Lisa, and Ethan opening his Christmas present from Drew!

Dane and Ethan playing Rockem Sockem...having a blast!!

Emily and Brett playing more Rockem Sockem while the cousins cheer them on!!

Drew helping Grandma and Grandpa with Dessert...yum, yum!!

Luke at the Hill family Christmas party- opening his present from Grandma and Grandpa Hill.

Drew at the Hill Family Christmas Party opening her present from Ashely...she got a Bopit!!

Our kids had a blast at our family Christmas parties. We had the Baker party on Friday the 18th and celebrated Kent's Birthday as well. We had dinner and opened presents and the kids really thought it was Christmas...they had so much fun. Drew got a CD player and a the chipmuncks cd from grandma and grandpa...she loved it. Dane got a remote controlled 4 wheeler and he thought it was so cool. Luke got a ride on step 2 motorcylce. He doesn't have to pedal he just pushes it. I am going to include a video of him opening and riding it because he is so cute at this age.

On Saturday afternoon we had the Hill family party at Rick's house which worked out great since we stayed in Mendon. We had a great dinner and watched old family videos of ourselves from years ago. Let me tell you it was a hoot and we were not pleased with our 80's hair do's and our glasses that came down past our nostrils. Oh, let me tell you it was hidious. We had fun laughing at each other all night.

Happy Birthday Daddy..The Big 42!!

2009-12-19T21:02:00.000-08:00

Luke, Dane, and Drew giving Daddy his Birthday Presents!

The kids singing Happy Birthday Daddy....We Love you!!

The kids smiling and posing for the camera....at least now Luke will give me a big grin and look right at the camera. He is so darn cute at 2 years old.

It was December 16th and with craziness of the season we celebrated Ken't Birthday! Kent and I just spoke in church the Sunday before his birthday and so we did not get a chance to have some fun on the weekend. For Kent's Birthday we had a nice dinner and then opened presents and waited until Friday night at the Baker family Christmas party to have cake and ice cream. Kent is sad that he is 42 and has a 2 year old. No worries...Luke still loves you no matter how old you are honey and so do I!! The kids began dancing to Christmas music on his Birthday after he opened his presents and they had a blast doing it. Here is the video of them going crazy!!!

Visiting Santa Claus at the Ward Christmas Party

2009-12-15T21:24:00.000-08:00

Drew and Dane visiting Santa Claus at the ward Christmas Breakfast.
Luke and Daddy stayed home because they were sick.

Telling Santa what they want for Christmas...a Wii!!

THANKSGIVING BLESSINGS!!

2009-12-01T20:46:00.000-08:00

Getting Ready to Eat Our Thanksgiving Feast!!!

Ashley, Benj, & Drew hanging out on Thanksgiving

Nick and Jayde surfing the Net on Thanksgiving!!

Tracey & Mom Slaving over our Thanksgiving Feast...Yummy!!

Lukie posing for the camera with Aunt Melanie & Uncle Jon!!

Melanie & Jon on Thanksgivng at Tracey's House

The Three or Six Boobs...one set is missing(steph)!!

(This was Kent and Dad's Suggestion...ha, ha)

Luke, Dane and Courtney playing on the Love Sacks!

Carl and Kent Taking in some Football before the Feast!!!

Courtney taking care of Lukie!!

We spent the day at The Trujillo's house for Thanksgiving. Everyone was with us at Tracey's house except for Steph and Rod's family and Rick's family came over later in the evening for a poop party (pig out on pie). We all had a great time visiting and enjoying each others company. The cousins had fun playing together and doing crafts. The dinner was scrumptious and we had tons to feast on. We spent the evening mapping out our shopping adventure. We didn't leave til 9 pm and then I was in a panic to get the kids home to bed so that I could begin our black Friday shopping adventure. Melanie stayed at my place and then we went out at 10:30 pm and didn't finish untl the next morning at 9:30 AM. We met up with Tracey and Jayde and some others as well. We had a blast and enjoyed every bit of the fun. We wish our friends and family a Happy Thangiving!

Luke Loves To Play Ball and Catch With Da-ee!!

2009-11-19T21:37:00.000-08:00

This is a short video of Luke playing with Da-ee before bedtime. He can't seem to get enough of playing ball and catch.

Lets Play Ball Da-ee!!

2009-11-18T21:19:00.000-08:00

Luke loves to play ball with Da-ee!
Since Luke doesn't say many words he pushes Da-ee over to the floor to play ball any chance he gets.

Luke catching the baseball.

Catching the baseball over and over

Uh-oh he dropped the baseball!

Can't decide which ball to play with...Mom says the BYU football. Dad says...Do we have to use that ball? Luke will just have to decide.

Luke showing off his athletic moves!!

Luke throwing the ball to Da-ee!!

Our Halloween Fall Events!!

2009-11-04T11:36:00.000-08:00

Halloween has finally arrived and the kids are so excited!!

Our Cute Little Cowboy!!

Our Scary Vampire: "I Vant To Suck Your Blood"

Carving Pumpkins For Family Night...Oh So Fun!!

The Kids proud of their Pumpkin Creations!

Dane getting friendly with the Witches at Gardner Villiage!

Burrr....Visiting the Witches at Gardner Village!

The Cousins at Gardner Village...Spooky Witches!

The Hill Clan at Gardner Village...Happy Halloween!!

Drew and the cute Witch at Gardner Village!

Trying to stay warm at Gardner Village...It's COLD!

Luke posing at our ward Halloween Party. You go Cowboy!!

Our Curious Little Cowboy! Luke 2 years old.

Our Three Little Pumpkins!!

Our Ward Halloween Party!!

Halloween has finally arrived, Yeah...lots of hype and parties to attend. The kids are gald to trick or treat. They had a great October wearing their costumes to many fall festivals, and our ward party. Halloween night turned out to be a great night...the weather was mild and it wasn't too cold. The kids had lots of fun with their cousins. Luke liked trick or treating...he was so cute and thought he would eat his candy at each door instead of putting in his bucket. Well for me I am glad we are finished for another year. It was fun but now I am ready for Thanksgiving!!

The ScareCrow Festival At Thanksgiving Point!

2009-10-30T11:59:00.000-07:00

With the Slaugh Family at the ScareCrow Festival
Look at these SCARY KIDS...Don't They Look Believable!!

The Witch, The Cowboy, & The Vampire... Need we say more!

"Giddy Up Cowboy" -Doesn't get much better than this for cuteness!

Our Cute little Witch doing a craft at the Scarecrow Festival!

Ride em' Cowboy!!

Autumn pictures with the kids

Autumn pictures at Suncrest

Mom and the kids at Suncrest

It was a more than perfect day to attend the scarecrow festival. The kids had lots of fun dressing up in their costumes for it. They got to go through a junior haunted house, jump on all kinds of bounce houses, play some fall games, rode the spider bikes, and to top it off they went on a train ride around the festival. The only thing we missed out on was farm country and the pony rides. We should of left sooner before it got so dark. oh, well maybe next year.

Fall Break At The Hogle Zoo!

2009-10-07T11:44:00.000-07:00

This was the big attraction at the Zoo...Meet Baby Zuri!
We heard many terms of endearment while seeing her. She was cute.

Drew, Dane & Luke seeing the giraffe's at the Zoo!

Daddy and the kids in front of the amazing giraffe's!

Luke trying to ride a big old bike at the Zoo!

Dad and the kids riding on the Merry Go Round!

This was one of the highlights for Dane...I guess we should of gone to Lagoon!

Luke sitting on the silly gorilla!!

Dane climbing on the big gorialla at the Zoo!

Drew sitting on the Elephant's Trunk!

Baby Zuri sleeping by her Momma...so cute!

Dane riding on the Elephant's trunk!

For fall break we had a few days off...so we decided to take the kids to the Zoo! The weather was great. It was a perfect day to go. The zoo just released baby Zuri the elephant and her mom to the public. Because of this it was very crowded but, we still had a good time seeing all of the animals. Dane and Luke loved riding on the Merry go round and the train ride around the zoo.

Happy 2nd Birthday Luke...YOU ARE SOO CUTE!!

2009-09-15T13:39:00.000-07:00

Luke Finishing Off His Birthday Cake..Yum, Yum!

Luke Being A "Cutie Pie" For His Mama!

Drew & Dane Loving The Cake For Luke's Birthday!!

Luke Diving Into His Birthday Cake...He Loves Cake!

Luke Nibbling On Just The Frosting....Suprised, No!

Luke - Going For It Head First!!!

Happy Birthday to You..!!!

Wow This Is For Me...Num, Num!!

Drew, Dane, & Luke Waiting for the Founder's Day Parade to Start!!
(Labor Day - candy bags ready and waiting)

Luke getting ready to open his Birthday Presents!

Luke caught with a sucker in his mouth.

He likes the sucker better than his presents.

Cherish, Memories, Priceless!!

Luke's Birthday was September 7th which happen to fall on Labor Day this year.

We decided to go up to Mendon on Sunday after church to spend time with the Baker's and also get a few projects finished up in the cabinet shop. We had a good time visiting with Mom and Dad and all the cousins. The kids enjoyed playing and riding on the four wheeler. On Monday morning we went over to the Founders Day Parade in Wellsville. It was a lot of fun for Drew, Dane and Luke. The best part for them was diving for all of the candy, seeing the fire trucks, the sirens going non-stop, and the cowboy and indians acting crazy on their horses. It was a quick trip but we all had a good time. I can hardly believe Luke is 2. Where does the time go? I guess the first 2 years is very busy for Mom and Dad. Luke does not say many words right now...just mama and ball. We are waiting for him to say Da, da...Daddy. I think he is close but is a lot less talkative than Drew and Dane were at this age. He knows a lot but is not very vocal right now. He just listens to all of us.

Making Our Own Fresh Apple Jucie!!

2009-09-13T12:57:00.000-07:00

Drew - The Apple Of Our Eye!

Kent and the kids picking Our Apples to Juice!

Kent picking ours apples, to get ready to Press them.

Drew and Kent still picking and washing the apples.

Filling up the cooler with apples to juice them.

Drew and Dane with the neighbor kids watching us juice the apples

Kent and Dave our neighbor using his Apple Press.

Look at that Fesh Yummie Apple Jucie!

We had a fun experience using our neighbors Apple Press/Jucier that he ordered from New York. We got about 6 quarts of Juice which I canned. It tastes delicious and fresh. We had fun learning how to do it. The kids got a kick out of it especially since they love apple jucie. We will have to do some more soon. Here is some video of Kent and Dave using the Press.

Drew Looking So Pretty In Her Sunday Best!

2009-08-29T08:28:00.000-07:00

Drew in her new white Dress and ready for Church!

Drew looking so cute and growing up too fast!

Drew at 7 1/2 and looking forward to her Baptism

Our Trip To Bear Lake was Burrr Lake!

2009-08-22T21:16:00.000-07:00

The Kids Swimming At Bear Lake

Luke and Mommy Playing in the Water

Daddy and Luke watching the waves come in.

Dane and our Cozy Tent Trailer - It was better than a tent!

Dane Riding his Scooter all around Camp and Loving it!!

Drew getting ready to play baseball with all of the cousins!

Kent, Luke, and Drew, with Grandma and Grandpa Baker!

Our Family at Bear Lake - Getting ready to go home!

The Baker Cousin Clan - Drew the Lone Girl!!

The Boys Taking a Walk in Bear Lake!

Even though the weather at Bear Lake was cold and crappy we still had a good time. Kent and I never got in the water once-which is crazy to think, but the kids did. I guess when your a kid you don't care. Drew, Dane, and Luke love to go camping at Bear Lake because they love spending time with grandma, grandpa, and their cousins. Next year we will be hoping for better weather. I think we will go in July instead of August. Better Luck next year!!

Hill Family Reunion

2009-08-05T12:00:00.000-07:00

Grandma & Grandpa Hill's Beautiful Posterity!

Beautiful Moose Creek - Island Park, Idaho

Nice Fish Drew...Way To Go!

Drew & Dane Fishing In Moose Creek With Grandpa!

Dane Caught His First Fish In Moose Creek!

Drew, Courtney, & Dane Splashing In Moose Creek!

The Bunk House - Our Sleeping Quarters!

The Annual Duckie Race Down Moose Creek!

The Baker Family
Drew, Dane, Lori , Kent ,& Luke

Family Pictures At Moose Creek!

After seven years it was finally time for another Hill family extended reunion. Wow! It is amazing to see how all of our families have grown and multiplied since the last reunion. The reunion was held in Island Park, Idaho. The gathering point was at my parents cabin in Moose Creek. My dad managed to set everyone up in many cabins that were close by. The reunion was July 18-22 and then you could stay longer if you wanted. This year we had an over abundance of annoying mosquitos which was not fun.

The grandchildren had a major blast. Some of the acitivties were playing in creek, fishing, the annual duckie race down Moose Creek, roasting smores over the fire, GPS hunts, and of course the traditional rafting trip down Big Springs.

We were only planning to stay until Wednesday because Kent had to be back for work on Thursday. Drew and Dane begged and pleaded for me to stay and send Kent home with Carl since they were having too much fun in the pines. It took a little time deciding only because Luke is a busy body at 20 months and I have to watch him constantly or he will end up in the creek or the fire. Well, I ended up staying and the kids had lots of fun.

We took all the grandkids fishing with Rick, Jon, Melanie,Tracey,Trenton, and Grandpa up the road from the cabin. Grandpa helped Drew and Dane catch their first fish since daddy wasn't there to help, and I for one don't know what I am doing when it comes to fishing. Dane was so excited to finally catch a fish...they were brookie trout. We packed them all the way home so they could show them to dad when they got home. After being gone for 7 days I was glad to be home and back to civilization especially after seeing all of Dane's swollen mosquito bites, scraps, and sunburn from all their rough and tough play.

Welcome to Whiskey Creek Ranch!!

2009-07-12T13:06:00.000-07:00

Luke Exploring The Big Tractor

Dane, Luke & Mom Sitting in the Tractor Wheel!

Dane, Luke & Drew Having Fun At The Ranch

Luke Taking A Nap after Falling Alseep on the Four Wheelers!

Kent, helping the Girls Get Ready To Fish!

The Kids Watching and Feeding the Fish At the Grace Fish Hatchery

Petting The Cute Baby Pigs At Whiskey Creek Ranch!

Luke Enjoying His "PlayDough" Flavored Ice Cream On July 4th

Eating Ice Cream On the 4th of July with all The Fam!!

Dane, Kent & Luke Having Fun Before the Fire Works!

Luke Being a Silly Stinker!

Mommy Snuggling with Luke Before The Fire Works!

We decided to hook with Melanie and Jon for the 4th of July. We all went up to Grace, Idaho to stay at Jon's brother's Whiskey Creek Ranch. We stayed in their 5th wheel trailer and I was thrilled because this is my kind of camping! We had a good old time fishing, riding four wheelers, and messing around on the ranch. We took the kids to the Grace Fish Hatchery...they loved feeding the thousands of fish. The kids loved riding the four wheelers over and over and playing the Wii. They also got to see and pet new born baby pigs. They were so cute.

On Saturday Rick and his family came over to the Ranch and hung out and rode the four wheelers. Jon enjoyed touring the niece and newphews around the ranch on the "Bad Boy". In the afternoon we all drove over to Lava Hot Springs to go swimming. We weren't sure if we would be able to swim because we thought it was going to rain but we lucked out. We went later in the afternoon so it wasn't so busy. We made sloppy joes and lots of other yummy food for dinner that we were able to eat at the pool. The kids had a blast swimming and going down the water slides. After swimming we all went and got ice cream and then went to watch the fire work show in Lava Hot Springs. By end of the night we were all tired and ready to call it a night. Happy Birthday America and to Steph as well!!

Summer Fun!!

2009-07-08T12:35:00.000-07:00

Summer is finally here...Yeah! Drew, Dane, and Luke were finally able get their swimming pool out. They were so excited to swim in their kiddie pool. Luke is especially loving the water and loves to kick his legs and splash the water everywhere. He loves to dip his forhead in the water and then giggles as the water runs down his face. He doesn't seem to be too afraid of the water. He doesn't even care if it is cold. The other night the kids were swimming and Luke was shivering cold and we tried to take him in the house to warm him up. He was not happy and throw a fit. Luke was having too much fun in the water and so he ended up outside again.

Family Night In American Fork Canyon!

2009-06-30T16:20:00.000-07:00

We had a great time at American Fork Canyon. We went up the canyon to have dinner and family night. We met up with Melanie and her family as well. The kids had a great time. We definitely had to keep our eyes on the kids especially Luke since the river was running high and fast. Once the sun went down it became chilly rather fast, luckily for us we had a fire to keep us warm. We were just glad to be in the great outdoors since we have had a very wet June.

Happy Father's Day!

2009-06-23T15:22:00.000-07:00

We had a Great Father's Day. The kids helped Mom make dinner for Dad. After dinner Drew and Dane were so excited for Daddy to open his presents. They can hardly wait at their age. The kids are so cute and are so happy to show dad how much they love him and want to make him happy with all their hugs and gifts. Drew gave dad a change bowl that she made at school. She was so proud of it and Daddy loved it. Drew, Dane, and Luke gave Daddy a "Tool Caddie" and some screw drivers...he loved it. We also fixed up Daddy's Bike so that we can all go on bike rides together. We all went for a family bike ride that night and the kids loved it. Luke enjoyed the ride the most since he rode in the bike trailer. We love our daddy and appreciated all he does for our family. We have the most Awesome dad ever according to Drew, Dane, and Luke!

Our Adventure To The George Eccles Dinosaur Park!

2009-06-16T12:37:00.000-07:00

Melanie and I took the kids the George Eccle's Dinosaur Park in Ogden after going to Mikaeli's Baptism in Logan on Wednesday June 3rd. The kids had a great time seeing all the dinosaur artifacts and fossils. The best part for them was digging for buried fossils, this kept them busy for while. After a sometime we had a little lunch and then the kids explored all kinds of things at the Dinosaur's Learning Center, played on the play ground and followed the trials to the different dinosaur statues. I was quite impressed for all that they got to see and do. As you saw above our kiddos were the most dangerous creatures there and they live with us...imagine that! We could not have chosen a better day before all of this rain came. It was a perfectly warm and sunny day.

We Love "SNOWIES"!!

2009-06-07T16:13:00.000-07:00

Drew got a snow cone machine for her Birthday. The kids can't get enough of making snowies. They love to make them and ask everyday if they can have a snowie. Even Luke likes them...imagaine that. What toddler wouldn't like a snowie!! Luke is doing a pretty good job eating it by himself...just a few drips!

Our Little Slugger!!

2009-06-07T15:54:00.000-07:00

These are just a few pictures of our little slugger -Dane. He had a great season and loved playing.

Our Rookie 5 Baseball Player!!

2009-06-07T15:09:00.000-07:00

Dane began his first sports activity this spring...We signed him up to play Baseball on a Riverton City League. His team is the Pillies and he had a "Ball" playing with his team. He loved going to all the games even though he did not understand the concept of the game too much in the begining...but hey I guess you have to start somewhere...practice, practice!

Dane has learned a lot about baseball now. He told me the other day..."I want to play Baseball Everyday Mom". He met lots of new friends and one of his favorite friends on the team was a boy named Dylin. Here is some video and pictures from his games. They are quite entertaining and fun to watch.

I Want To Be A "Baseball Player" When I Grow Up!!

2009-06-07T14:46:00.000-07:00

Here is some video from Dane's Pre-School Program. He tells us his name and that he wants to be a "Baseball Player" when he grows up!

Here is Dane doing his Nursery Rhyme. "Hey diddle diddle, the cat and the fiddle, the cow jumped over the moon and the little dog laughed to see such a sport and the dish ran away with the spoon." Dane did Awesome!! Mom and Dad are so Proud of our Big Boy!

Dane's Pre-School Graduation May 28, 2009

2009-06-07T14:15:00.000-07:00

Dane had his Pre-School Graduation on Thursday, May 28, 2009. He was so excited to do his nursery rhyme for his family and friends. He did a great job in saying his part...he even said it this time instead of giggling. All the pre-school kids sang lots of songs together that were very cute. As you can see from the pictures above Dane has an infectious smile and was thrilled to be graduating from pre-school. We are so proud and excited for you..."Our Great Dane Is Growing Up". We wish you the best as you begin Kindergaten!!

Mother's Day Weekend In Mendon!

2009-05-13T20:40:00.000-07:00

We went up to the Baker's in Mendon for Mother's Day. We had a fun visit. Drew, Dane & Luke especially had a great time playing on the swings, riding on the four wheeler with Grandpa, and feeding the cows. Luke had a great time after church smelling and playing in the flowers and walking around in the backyard. Luke loves to be outside...I can't really blame him after being cooped up all winter long.

Our Gymnastic's Girl!!

2009-05-03T16:49:00.000-07:00

Drew doing some of her gymnastics moves!!!

You Go Girl...Drew Doing Gymnastics!!!

2009-05-03T15:59:00.000-07:00

Drew has been taking gymnastics from Jolley's Gymnastics here in Riverton. She started last September of 2008, so she has been taking for eight months. She loves going to gymnastics and seems to be catching on fast. As a mom I am pleased with her progress. Drew can now do her back walk over, a back bend, and kick over by herself. She continues to work hard on getting her cart wheels, her front walk over and her splits. This is a video of Drew doing her back walk over and her cart wheels at gymnastics. Drew is in the light pink leotard with her teacher.

HAPPY 5TH BIRTHDAY DANE!! We Love You!

2009-04-25T20:28:00.000-07:00

Dane turned 5 years old on April 8th....he is so excited. He knows when you turn 5 you get to do lots of BIG BOY stuff like go to kindergarten, play on the rookie baseball team and he just learned how to ride his bike. Dane had his first Birthday party at the South Jordan indoor swimming pool where he invited a few of his good friends to come and splash around with him. Dane got a scooter, a basball bat, mit, and a ball for his birthday.

The same week of Dane's Birthday we went to St. George for spring break with the extended Baker family...although we stayed at Grandma and Grandpa Hill's house in St. George since it was a nice free place. Drew and Dane loved being in St. George since they could see and visit both grandparents. Some of the fun things we did were swimming every night at the "Baker Hotel", going to the Carnival in Nevada, the Arts Festival, and going to Chuck-A-Rama with all the cousins. Drew and Dane loved seeing the Mama Pig with all her 11 or so babies, going on the roller coaster and the ferris wheel. We all had a great time.

Saint George Here We Come!!

2009-04-15T16:11:00.000-07:00

It was finally time for our family to go south and enjoy the warm weather. We got to St. George on Wednesday at about 5 pm. We had pizza for dinner and then took off over to this newly built park by the river. The kids had a great time because this park is a little different than most. The weather was about 67 degrees which was great for hanging out especially after driving for 4 hours.

On Thursday we went to Zions National Park to have a picnic and go on a hike. Zions was beautiful in the spring and the temperature was not bad...about 60 degrees. The kids loved being in the out doors and had a great time seeing the river, the water falls and a few baby deer.

Most of our trip to St. George we spent at the park, shopping at the outlets, watching the Mountian West Conference Tournament, and the Wac Tournment with Kent and Dad. After the third night of Basketball my Mom and I took off to see Twilight...yes I finally got to see the show before it came out on DVD. I thought it was pretty good but my mom kept saying how strange it was and weird. I kept telling her to hush. It was nice to get away while my kids were sleeping.

Celebrating Drew's Birthday at the Mayan!!

2009-04-15T15:27:00.000-07:00

On Firday night after we went the Draper Temple Open House we met Kent and Jon at the Mayan. We have never been. This is a mexican restaurant and the atmosphere is what you are going to see. They have a live show with divers doing all kinds of dives and other entertainment. We have been told it is a fun experience for the kids to see, although the food isn't that great. The kids could have cared less about eating, for all they cared about was watching the divers dive and swim. We had a good time and Drew kept telling me how fun it was to go the Mayan!!

Happy 7th Birthday Drew...We Love You!!

2009-04-15T14:24:00.000-07:00

On March 6th Drew turned 7 years old. I can't believe she is one year from being baptized. She is growing up so fast. Drew had a fun day and Friday was a good day to have a Birthday. Drew was very excited because it was pajama day at school and her class earned a party for meeting their goals. She was glad to wear her new P.J.'s that she got for Christmas from Grandma and Grandpa Baker.

Later that day Drew's cousins Courtney, Ashley, and her Aunt Melanie came to Riverton to play. Melanie and I took the kids to the Draper Temple Open House later that afternoon. Our kids were so excited to go to the Temple and to actually go inside. They kept saying how beautiful it was and talked a lot about the baptismal font...Dane said he wanted to go for a swim! Drew thought the Sealing room was very pretty, and the Chandlers in Celestial room were awesome. I am so glad we took them so they could get a glimpse of what Heaven is like and how peaceful it is in the Temple. They kept telling us how they can't wait til they can be married in the Temple. They are definetly cute and innocent. Melanie and I and our husbands have our work cut out for us....for this to come to pass especially in these trying times ahead.

Baker Blues...Yuckie!!

2009-04-15T13:48:00.000-07:00

Time flies. We have been so busy that I have not taken the time to update you on our family activities. Feburary was pretty much a downer month. We are calling it the Baker Blues since more than half the month we had the icky yucky sickies in our home.

Luke started it with a viral infection and had a fever for seriously 9 days. He had cold sores and cankers through out his mouth. The docotor said the viral infection has to run its course and will usually last 7-10 days. Once Luke got over it then Dane got the same darn thing. He was just as sick and I felt so bad for them both. Luke and Dane pretty much did not eat for 5 or so days due to the cold/fever sores in their mouths.

Drew was lucky enough to not get this nasty infection but she did manage to get a cold. At least it wasn't bad enough that she had to miss school for it. I felt bad because Luke was healthy for one week and then he came down with her cold. He had a few rough nights sleep because of his stuffed up nose that did not allow him to breathe well...it also doesn't help when you love your binkey. On top of all this sickness it doesn't help having the winter blues. We can hardly wait for spring. We are looking forward to March and going to St. George for some nice weather and to see grandma and grandpa Hill.

After 2 Years We Finally Finished Our Train Table!!

2009-02-25T20:09:00.001-08:00

I am so excited about our Train Table! Dane and Luke are going to get some fun use out of this table for years. Kent built this table about 2 years ago for Dane for Christmas. Kudos to my great husband for doing a fab. job. Once we brought it home from the shop in Mendon we got busy and never finished staining it. Then I had to look high and low to find a train table rug for it. I finally found the rug at IKEA and cut it to fit and then zig zagged the edges. One day I plan to buy baskets for the cubbys but I figure why bother with Luke being 18 month...he is really good at making messes. But he sure is worth it.

Dane and "Bud Bud" Playing with Hot Wheels!

2009-02-08T21:58:00.000-08:00

Dane and Luke are becoming best buds. Luke loves to play with Dane and all of Dane's toys. Dane has recently given Luke the nick name of Bud Bud. I think his nick name for Luke is so cute. I can see right now that Dane and Luke are going to be good friends and best of brothers.

For the most part they play pretty good. Often though Dane gets a little rough with Luke and Mom has to step in. Luke has been pretty good about getting his way if a car or super hero figure has been taken from him. He just screams until he gets it back. Luke is also jealous if Daddy holds Dane. He starts to scream and tries to push Dane out his way. Bud Bud loves his Daddy and wants his full attention.

We Celebrated National Popcorn Day In "Retro Style"!

2009-01-22T09:46:00.000-08:00

January 16, was "National Popcorn Day"! In honor of this crazy day we decided to break out our new Retro Style popcorn popper. It was given to us from Grandma & Grandpa Hill for Christmas. Drew missed school on Friday because she was sick...so we decided to watch the movie "Matilda" and I decided to suprise the kids by trying out our new popcorn popper. They were so excited to finally use it! After popping the popcorn we felt like we were at the movies. We had so much fun popping the corn and eating it...as you will see in the video!!

Dane's Preschool Christmas Program!!

2008-12-30T21:08:00.000-08:00

This is Dane at his Pre-School Christmas program on December 18, 2008. He was cute but mostly silly. Dane was so excited that Grandma and Grandpa Hill were in town for Christmas. He couldn't believe that they were going to come and watch him.

When it was Dane's turn he climbed up on the chair so everyone could see him. But then Dane suddenly began to giggle and was not going to say his part. He just kept giggling instead. The audience laughed with him. His mom and dad kept hoping he would do it in the end ...but NO!! The funny thing about him not doing his part is that he practiced it with mom for two weeks before the program. He would say it perfectly cute each time at home. Boy... were we fooled after watching our Dane. All I can say is you never know what children are going to do.

Merry Christmas From The Baker's

2008-12-25T12:03:00.000-08:00

We thought since we are far away from our extended family on Christmas we would send you a video message to you. Happy Holidays. Love-Kent, Lori , Drew, Dane & Luke

Merry Christmas Family & Friends!

2008-12-25T11:18:00.000-08:00

Today is Christmas morning and we want to say hello and send our holiday greetings to each of you. We hope you are all having a wonderful Christmas and that Santa got you everything you wanted and deserved. One thing for sure, we are all having a white Christmas with the snow falling outside. Drew and Dane got snow inner tubes. I am sure they will want to try them out later.

Drew, Dane & Luke were so excited when they saw what Santa brought for them. They could hardly contain themselves in taking turns opening presents from Santa, as well as gifts from Mom and Dad.

Church Christmas Party with Santa Claus-2008

2008-12-14T15:12:00.000-08:00

Drew, Dane and Luke were so excited to visit Santa Clause. Drew has always been a little hesitant about sitting on Santa's lap in years past but this year she said she was going to do it. She did it...Yeah Drew. We were was so proud of her for going right up and telling Santa her wish list for Christmas this year!

As for Dane, well he is never shy and can hardly wait to tell Santa his wish list. Luke wasn't sure about Santa, at one point he almost started to cry and then he saw his mommy smiling at him and decided he was okay. Drew came home from the Church Christmas party that morning and said this was her best day ever...she is so excited about Christmas.

Our Reflections Winner!!

2008-12-05T10:02:00.000-08:00

Drew is in first grade and this year she entered the Reflections Contest at her elementary school. She submitted a short story in the area of Literature titled:

"HOW PUMPKINS GROW"

Pumpkins are orange.

Thay have seeds and thay have stems.

Thay grow on the ground with water and dirt.

Thay start out green and in the fall thay turn orange.

Thay are fun to carve.

My favrit treat is pumpkin spics cake.

The end

Drew was chosen as a winner on November 24, 2008. She was so excited to hear that she was a winner. Drew kept saying "I can't believe I won...Mom"! She was honored with a Medal in Literature and a composition notebook with pencils to continue her, "Composition Writing". Drew will now compete at the next level on January 8th, 2009. We are so proud of her and wish her luck in the next round"

Luke Is Our Walking Energizer Bunny!!

2008-11-29T00:14:00.000-08:00

On November 16th Luke was finally Walking Full Speed Ahead and Not Looking Back. Luke is almost 15 months. Ever since he has figured out the walking thing...now we have to keep up with him. He is a busy bee and loves to carry all kinds of toys while he walks around. He is tons of fune and so darn cute. He's growing way to fast.
(FYI- I sound like a dork on this video so just ignore myself:Lori..hee, hee!)

Happy Thanksgiving From The Baker Family 2008

2008-11-26T22:51:00.000-08:00

We are heading up to Mendon to spend the Holiday weekend with Kent's family. Drew, Dane, and Luke are so excited to go to Grandma and Grandpa's for "The Big Turkey Dinner". We want to wish all of you a great Thanksgiving. We are thankful for this time year when we can reflect on the many blessings we receive each day. We are grateful to be a part of your lives. Happy Harvest and Gobble Til You Wobble!!

We Love you all, The Baker Family

Our Little Toe Head!

2008-11-26T21:43:00.000-08:00

This Summer Luke's hair turned blonde to our Suprise. Considering how RED Luke's hair was when he was born. Although when his hair grows out after a haircut it still has a hint of red. Now we will have to wait and see what color of hair he will have as he gets older. We never expected to have a Toe Head and a Blue Eyed Boy. (Thanks to Kent's blue eyes)

Mama's New Pimped Out Ride!!

2008-11-03T20:12:00.000-08:00

We are no longer the owners of a mini van. As you can see... we now drive a "ChevyTahoe".

What can we say we love our new ride. Now that gas is coming down in price we are loving our Tahoe even more...since we are aware that SUV's do guzzle more gas. We purschased it a couple of weeks ago and traded our van. Our Tahoe is a 2005 with 40,000 miles it is an LT model "meaning" it is fully loaded. I feel very spoiled having a car this nice. Our Tahoe holds 7 passengers as did our van. It has two bucket seats and a third row with a DVD player included.

Happy Fall!

2008-11-01T22:16:00.000-07:00

Today is Novemeber 1st and we are starting to get somewhere with our blog. It has been a pain in the you know what...in setting it up...only because I am not very blog savy...maybe one day I will know how to do it all.

We hope you all had a great Halloween!! We started the Halloween fun on Wednesday with a party at the church. Drew dressed as Princes Fiona, Dane as Spiderman and Luke as our little Bumble Bee. The kids had a great time. They played all kinds of games, had their faces painted and loved having a "cup cake" from the cup cake walk.

We had a great Halloween. Not to mention the kids had a great time trick or treating with the weather being so mild and warm. Melanie and Jon's family came up from Provo to spend the evening with us. Drew and Dane were thrilled because they got to go trick or treating with Ashley and Courtney. Drew and Dane got odles and odles of candy. They didn't want to stop...since they were having such a great time. Kent stayed on the home front and answered the door while playing with Luke.