A Trip to The Los Angeles Fire Dept.

Another highlight of our trip to California was our trip to the fire department where Uncle Steve works. He gave us the grand tour and VIP treatment. We were able to ride around town in the fire engine, run the sirens, honk the horns, climb in and explore the firetruck, spray the water hose, and even slide down the firefighters slide. It was a very fun and eventful evening. The boys couldn't get enough and haven't stopped talking about it since. Thanks again Uncle Steve!












In the station lot, the boys spotted a basketball hoop and started to play a little. I smile every time I look at the last picture of Blake shooting. He must have shot the ball 25+ times. Even after the older boys had called it quits, Blake continued to shoot. He didn't have bad form, but his height was restrictive. Even so, I truly believe he thought the ball would reach the hoop each time he shot it. Finally, when we were called in for dinner, I persuaded him to put the ball away. That boy defines determination and that photo defines him. I love it!



The boys thought the firefighter slide was the coolest. They tried it again and again with increased speed every time. The slide runs from the firefighters bedroom down to where the engines are kept so they can head out quickly. When this was explained to Caleb, he tried to convince me that getting ready for school would be much easier for him if I'd help install a similar slide system in our house. I told him maybe in the future, but for now the stairs will do.

A day at the beach

We had the most wonderful day at the beach. After arriving and walking around for a short period we came across a beach full of seals basking in the sun. The boys enjoyed watching the seals and birds for a while, but were soon ready to move on.

As we continued on our walk we noticed a crowd gathering and asked what they were looking at. It was a seal in labor. She was ready to deliver any minute. We waited, and watched, and ultimately witnessed the birth of this baby seal. It was amazing to see and definitely one of the highlights of our trip.



During our wait, I entertained myself by taking photos of my boys against the wall. They were not as entertained as I by this. However, they willingly participated for my sake. Witnessing the birth of a seal and the cooperation of my three boys for a photo shoot made for two miraculous events in one day.

Four For Four

Frogs,


Snails,



and Puppy Dog Tails,



(Not to mention Snakes). . . That's what our family is made of.



We are excited to share our good news. Number #4 is a Boy! So for now, putting aside the idea of sugar and spice, we look forward to meeting our newest male addition. Among the different reactions to this news, our favorite was. . . "The only thing better then a family of three boys is a family of four". We couldn't agree more.

Steamboat Springs

Two of the things we like best about living in Colorado are living near family, and living near the mountains. This weekend we were able to enjoy both when we headed up to Steamboat Springs with the Adam, Mary, and the girls. We had a great time.







On Saturday, we took a hike to a frozen waterfall. The weather was perfect, it felt like we were walking through a winter wonderland. The hike took followed along side a river up into the canyon. It ended on a bridge that overlooked the waterfall. We continued on to the base of the falls where we were able to snap some photos.

Boys Basketball

The boys played basketball in a town rec league this winter and had so much fun. Michael was able to coach Dallin and both boys were able to play on teams with some of their good friend. It was a so much fun watching them learn the sport and grow throughout the season.





Caleb played on taller hoops, but liked to show-off his skills on the lower ones.



Blake's personal mission statement ... "Anything you can do I can do younger".



Our good friends came to cheer the boys on. At the end of the game, the girls thought Dal might appreciate a group hug ... he didn't.

A Day Spent With Puppies

Crazy Hair Day

Born with a personality to match the hair. I love it! I love him!



The boys had "crazy hair day" at school. Caleb, especially, is all about school spirit and was excited for the big day. However, he was concerned at bedtime the night before that his new hair cut would make it hard to express himself in an appropriately crazy way. There was talk at school of crazy spikes, tails, mohawks and other such coolness. How could he compete?




In the morning, I surprised Caleb with green hair spray bought on a late night trip to Wal-mart, Target, Rite Aid, and then finally Walgreens (which proved successful). He was so thrilled with the concept of color. Dallin and Blake were thrilled with the idea of being like their big bother so my entire crew went a little crazy.




After sending both Caleb and Dallin to school, I set out to run some errands with Blake. It took me a while to interpret the looks I was getting from fellow shoppers. I guess out of context, a one year old with green hair reflects questionably on the mother. At first, I felt the need to explain... then, I didn’t. I gained confidence in my decision to let Blake participate in “crazy hair day” as we passed by every mirror and window in the store. At his reflection, Blake would shout with excitement, “yook ma” and flash me an adorable Hanchett grin. Thus confirming "crazy hair day" can be just as important to a one year old as it is to his big brothers.

Caleb's Baptism

Today was a very special day for Caleb. He was baptized! We are so proud of him and grateful for his example. He is such an amazing kid. We love being his parents and watching him grow.


Blake enjoyed the baptism...especially the refreshments. When Caleb went into the font with Michael, Blake kept reaching for them and saying, "I want it, I want it." I'm pretty sure he thought they were swimming and wanted to join in.



Sadly, the best shot of the whole crew. I adore these guys!