Livin'and Lovin'

A trip to the Dam

2011-02-27T20:12:00.001-08:00

We had a fun Sunday afternoon drive to the Dam. It was a good time but it was a little cool with the wind blowing off the water. Such a beautiful day.

Snow Day

2011-02-17T20:03:00.000-08:00

The kids got to play in the snow and make a snow man. It was all gone the next day but it is always fun while it last.

Grandma Dee's 60th Surprise Trip

2010-11-23T16:44:00.000-08:00

We pulled off a SURPRISE Trip to Windsor and the Napa area for our Mom's 60th Birthday. We had a wonderful weekend of family time and we got to spoil our Mom a bit.

Rachel and Eric even made the trip up to Surprise Mom too.

Sherry, Mom, and Kelly.

Papa and Grandma with the Grandkids.

Pumpkins

2010-11-23T16:42:00.000-08:00

Ella the Pea Pod, Kaylee the Queen, Courtney the Princess, Brady the Shark, and Brett the Storm Trooper

Our Fun Family Carving Time Came up with these.

Kaylee is 7, Courtney is 8, Brett is 11

First Day of School 5th 3rd 2nd

2010-09-10T21:19:00.000-07:00

August 18th and 19th:
It is that time of the year again when summer vacation is over and school starts up again. We can't believe that we have a 5th, 3rd, and 2nd grader. They are growing up so fast but it is a pleasure to watch them each step of the way.

Had to have a picture of the backpacks.

Summer Fun 3 - Lemonade and Fun Kids

2010-09-10T20:57:00.001-07:00

It is great to have awsome kids. It is fun to see them have fun together and love eachother.

Lemonade Stand - the kids did good in their first business day. They made more in tips than selling lemonade - there are some gracious people out there. As I once heard one should always stop and buy a cup of lemonade from a kids stand.

Our kids are great.

Summer Fun 2 - Trip to Black Butte, OR

2010-09-10T20:44:00.000-07:00

The trip started off as an adventure - we made it to Dunsmuir before we had a flat tire - drove to Mt Shasta on I-5 with one of those bike tire spares. But once we replaced two tires and made it to Black Butte we had a blast with our friends the Carlson's - thanks for inviting us guys.

The kids ready to go.

Putting on the bike tire - keep it under 50 mph

The girls in there big bed.

The boys.

Bike riding - swiming - golf - kickball what a great weekend.

Kickball go go go.

Carlson - Jones Fun Weekend

Summer Fun 1

2010-09-10T20:38:00.000-07:00

What do you do when the temp. get in the 100's you make your own water park - the girls added a sprayer to the trampoline. Hours of fun and refreshing.

The girls having fun

and more fun.

Do we have to go in?

Brett likes Cookie Dough (the cat) alot.

say cheese Cookie Dough.

June Dodgeball Girls v Boys

2010-06-10T11:37:00.000-07:00

A nice June evening of a little dodgeball game. Lindsey kids and Jones kids. You have to wear pennies and goalie jersey to play it right.

Happy Birthday Kaylee

2010-06-06T12:06:00.000-07:00

Kaylee had a few friend over for a Barbie and girly party. They painted toenails, made flip flops and had a treasure hunt. It was a fun girly party.
Happy Birthday 7th Kaylee

Painting of the Toes - none for mine though

Making of the flip flops

The birthday girl and her cake

An 11 year old

2010-06-04T11:59:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday Brett: Brett had a few friends over for a lego themed party. He gave each of his buddies a lego racer car and then we had a race. He asked each of his friends to bring one of their lego guys to the party and they were used as the passengers. Happy Birthday Brett - sorry for the late blog.

The Race Cars and Riders

Ready Set Go

Ice Cream Cake.

Livin' and Lovin' - 14 years

2010-05-25T07:47:00.000-07:00

Today we celebrate our 14th year of marriage. It is crazy how time moves so quickly when you get to hang out every day with the person you love. Sherry thanks for the awsome first 14 years I can't wait to see what the next years bring and I am glad I get to enjoy them with you. I love you. - Troy

Photo by Bre @ Portfolio Photo Studio

Hold outs and dressing for soccer practice

2010-04-27T22:12:00.001-07:00

Dad do we match? Good thing they know how to dress?????

Just a hold out - Kay's face says it all.

Brett the Pirate

Posted by TJ

EASTER

2010-04-13T10:06:00.000-07:00

We had a wonderful Easter with part of our family. After Church, Nathan, Tina and Brady came over along with my mom and Charlotte. Charlottes friend Carol also joined us. It was raining out so we didn't get to do the family photo shoot. My dad ended up getting sick so Easter dinner at our house was the last minute plan. Kel and Chad were in Oroville with his family and Eric and Rachel didn't make it up. And of course Trent and Jill were in Florida. Maybe next year we could all have Easter together. How about your house Grandma Dee?
Troy's Creation
Brady and Kaylee
Troy and Nathan

This was a diaper wreath given to Tina from Jill, Charlotte, Dee and I to shower Tina with Love from all of us. It had all kinds of fun gift cards, toys, and treats tied to it.

Scrapbook Spa Weekend

2010-02-28T19:48:00.000-08:00

The most Amazing Scrapbook store ever!
Sher, Trish, and Mary so happy to be away from home and having fun getting spoiled.
Trish so happy with all our fun gifts.

Us enjoying our manicures.

This is the life, a huge iced latte, fun gifts, good company and a whole 24 hours of scrapbooking in a weekend.

This was such a cool Early Valentines present from Troy. He let me go on spa/scrapbook weekend with Trish and Mary. We got so spoiled!!! Massage, mani/pedi, gifts, food, dessert, and good scrapbook time. I could totally get used to that!

The Landscaping

2010-02-28T19:43:00.000-08:00

I can't believe we actually have beautiful GREEN grass in our back yard. I have dreamed of this day for years. It was such a blessing to be able to have someone else who knows what they are doing come in and take care of it all.

Disney in the Rain

2010-02-28T19:24:00.001-08:00

We had a super fun time at Disneyland, we have good memories of getting totally soaked every single day but we made the best of it and tried to get our money's worth. One good thing with the park being so wet, there was NO LINES at all.

Christmas Day

2009-12-25T22:21:00.000-08:00

Kaylee, Brett, and Courtney loving their cousin Brady.
He is such a lovable little guy. Can't wait to meet his brother or sister in May.

Our fam. wearing all the gifts from around the world from Kel and Chad.

Cousins with Justin and Brady. Courtney wore her pj's all day long.

Grandparents and Grandkids.

Childrens Christmas Program at Oak Grove Bible Fellowship

2009-12-16T22:06:00.000-08:00

Courtney, Brett and Kaylee after the performance.

Our little angels. Kaylee, Abby Carlson, Allie Nail, Courtney and Aimee Warner

Brett (a Scribe) and Nathan Warner (King Herrod)

Mary (Emily Nail), Baby Jesus (Aiden Nail), Joseph (Josh Bloom)

The name of the program was called Double Take. And after seeing the dress rehearsal on the night before the performance we weren't sure how it was going to turn out. But God did his work through these kids because it turned out better than we could have imagined.

Jones kids

2009-12-01T21:41:00.000-08:00

Courtney had a part in her 2nd grade Chapel performance at Redding Christian School

Kaylee with one of her favorite Kittens from Cookie doughs most recent litter of 3 kittens. (the cat is now fixed, so no more kittens for the jones household.) Kaylee spent hours out in the garage playing with the babies and trying to find them when they started hiding from us.

Brett earned a skating reward with his fourth grade class. Kinda a little scary watching him try to skate, but he had a great attitude and a huge smile on his face the whole time, and of course loved every second of it.

Thankful in November

2009-11-15T21:29:00.000-08:00

So it has been awhile since I posted on my blog. I kinda forgot about it, to be honest. So here is a photo from our photo shoot with Breanna in November, I love the attitude the girls have in this one. I am so thankful for my family that God has blessed me with!!!!

Day at the Park

2009-10-29T19:38:00.001-07:00

Who's got the leaps in the family?

Just sliding and hanging around.

Soccer Photos

2009-10-11T14:37:00.001-07:00

Can you tell which sister is which?

Kaylee is number 3, and Courtney is number 6. Sure is nice having them both on the same team. But we get asked even more now if they are twins.

Bretts favorite part about his sisters playing soccer. He gets peace and quiet for an hour while they are playing to read or play legos. Funny boy!

Photos from September

2009-10-11T14:15:00.000-07:00

Where did September go???
Brett Dove hunting with Troy. Brett just goes along to spot birds, but gets to shoot his bb gun while he is out there.

Troy on the top of the ladder helping Eric prep for paint.
Eric "the Machine" painting our house for us! What a great little bro! Thanks so much Eric and Rachel for all your hard work!!
The girls picked a few overgrown Zucks out of my dads garden. I don't think we checked papas garden enough while he was in Europe. Oh well it made good Zuccini bread.

a Couple of Photos from August

2009-09-18T13:47:00.000-07:00

We spent most of August dreaming about being back in our house, this photo is of the girls hiding in our closet covered in plastic
The first day of School. We started school still living at Papa and Grandmas house. Brett 4th grade, Courtney 2nd grade, Kaylee 1st grade
Brett learned how to play tennis this summer at Sun Oaks Tennis Club. He had group lessons 3 days a week and really enjoyed it.

New Paint

2009-09-17T19:12:00.001-07:00

okay so what do you think????? Look any different? I need your comments!

This is the view of our new master bedroom.
My brother Eric and his wife Rachel came up last weekend and worked their rears off to get this painted in two days.

house photos

2009-09-17T18:29:00.000-07:00

Construction zone, sure glad I didn't have to live here while this was going on.

The new patio formed up.

a view at the back of the house.

Birthday Games

2009-08-06T21:56:00.000-07:00

Kel~ I know you wish you could've been there to play "drop the close pin in the jar" off the hugest ladder you can find! Amber and Jill I know you wish you could've been there too. Always so much fun when my dad comes to celebrate my birthday. Since I turned 35 I am pretty sure it was a 35 foot ladder!

Swim lessons

2009-08-01T22:04:00.000-07:00

My girls had swim lessons for the last 2 weeks and learned all kinds of good stuff. Maybe they can be my dads next hope for his Olympic swimmer. They certainly are competative enough!

Saying Goodbye....

2009-07-28T23:32:00.000-07:00

We are so sad to say goodbye to our good friends the Brogans. They moved to Arizona due to a job opportunity that God brought their way, but we miss them ALREADY!!! The week before they took off we had a little gathering at Charlottes pool to send them off and we had 15 kids stirring up Grandma's pool while she is away. Pictured are Warner, Brogan, Jones, Nail, Carlson, and Melcher kids.

2009-07-14T23:14:00.000-07:00

This is a photo from inside the new family room looking into our kitchen, on the right is the new half bath.

The new family room is on the right and the new master bedroom is on the left. Eventually....patio in between.

The new family room.

This is inside the house, looking into our old master bedroom, which will be the new craft-room/guest bedroom, and maybe eventually Courtney's room. This is the best photo I could get, sorry.

The Gomes/Jones Family adventures to Sunriver.

2009-07-14T09:14:00.000-07:00

Emma and Courntey resting on a rock near the Deschutes River.

Photo opp. on the River, the beginning of our 2.5 hour hike.

Troy and the girls getting ready for a long scooter ride to the park. The rest of us drove the car.

The best part of vacationing together, is catching up over HUGE Dark Chocolate Hazelnut Mocha's.

The whole crew in front of the amazing house we got to stay in at Sunriver.

One last swim and Cuddle with Aunt Kelly

2009-07-07T10:38:00.000-07:00

Kaylee and Aunt Kelly

Brett

Piggy back racing on Aunt Kelly

One last cuddle with Aunt Kelly before she heads out on her trip with Chad around the world. SIX months is a long time to travel, BUT what an adventure Chad and Kelly are headed on. We are very excited for them but we already miss them a ton!! Thanks for the call Kel. So weird to not be able to get ahold of you anytime I want. Makes me not take for granted the calls and conversations we do get. Love you lots Kel and Chad!!! Hope you are having a blast!

house update

2009-07-06T10:07:00.001-07:00

The slabs are poured

The guys that sacraficed their Saturday to come help Troy build this brick wall. Thank you guys Jay, Nathan, Joe, Dave, Lane, Patrick, and not in picture~ Greg, Nick, and Marcus. You guys are the best!

Moving the club house, what manly-men!!

Sheri and Nick's Wedding

2009-06-15T11:08:00.000-07:00

a couple before photos

2009-06-11T09:21:00.000-07:00

the changes are starting, these are a couple of before photos I will try to keep you updated on the progress of our new back yard and addition, but come on by and check it out whenever you want.

Moving some dirt.

2009-06-11T08:47:00.001-07:00

the tractors have started moving dirt and we now have a gigantic yard. The rain has slowed them down a bit, but they will be doing some more work today.

Redding Rodeo Parade

2009-05-23T08:19:00.000-07:00

Last weekend was the Redding Rodeo and it would not have been complete without the annual rodeo Parade where we saw horses, marching bands, fire trucks, drill teams, and more - there were something like 130 entries +/-. It was fun and we just beat the heat. (posted by TJ)

Winners of the Funny Face

Columiba School Drill Team

Redding Rodeo 2009

2009-05-16T07:51:00.000-07:00

The 61st Annual Redding Rodeo was in town and our good friends the Toney's invited us to join them. We had a great time and the kids really enjoyed it. We all had a real good laugh at the intermission show. Though it was a late night but a ton of fun - Thanks Again Toney's.
Macie you would really like the Rodeo and all the horses. Maybe if you are out here in May some year we can go - I posted the second picture for you Ms. Macie. (posted by TJ)

Mothers day Houseboat Weekend

2009-05-12T18:32:00.001-07:00

Spending Mothers day with our Mom out on Shasta Lake!
We had a wonderful, relaxing, fun filled weekend enjoying each others company!

Troy and Sher. Photo taken by Brett.

Auntie Shirley, and Cousin Justin came out for Mothers day! (Uncle Glenn came too)

My 3 kids being nice to each other for a moment.

Girlies getting some sun on Saturday afternoon!

Ahhhh, this doesn't happen very often!

Happy Mothers day!

2009-05-08T15:45:00.000-07:00

I would love to hear what all my friends are doing for mothers day! Please leave a comment, so I can hear what you all did this weekend! Happy Mothers day weekend to all you busy mommas! I hope you get spoiled!

Fishing day in April

2009-05-07T18:53:00.000-07:00

This was an annual wild game feed at Paul and Julie Reuters house in Bella Vista, and they let everyone fish out of their pond. Courtney and I didn't get to go this year since we got to take a trip to Sacramento for the day for Sheri's Bridal shower. But Brett, Troy and Kaylee along with Papa and Grandma enjoyed the fishing and fun day.

Happy Birthday AMBER FINLEY! 34 year old!

2009-05-05T18:01:00.001-07:00

DUDE~ I hope your Cinco De Mayo Birthday is super awesome and fun filled! I hope Jarrett planned you an exceptional night out with lots of presents!

Can you believe this was 3 years ago? When is our next cruise? How about we plan one for your 35th birthday? Sound good to you? Miss you my friend!

Just for Kelly

2009-04-22T22:40:00.000-07:00

Hey Dude, since you have been begging for more photos of the kittys....

this was actually takin in our house, (in the laundry room). Cookie dough was freaking out today since it was so hot outside, she decided to carry two of her babies into the garage, and then into the back of the van, which was probably 10-15 degrees hotter than her house outside. SMART. So the kids and I decided she and the babies needed to cool off a bit, so we set up their bed in the house. and we brought in the fan to blow on her too.

Cookie Dough has babies.

2009-04-14T08:36:00.000-07:00

6 New Little Babies. Kinda strange that my last 2 entries are about animals since I don't really love animals. But this is really exciting for our family. Cookie dough had her babies on Easter Day. 2 boys and 4 girls. This was taken after they were only about 1-2 hours old. Perfect timing as we are on our spring break this week so the kids can watch them all week.

Meet Max

2009-04-08T10:20:00.001-07:00

Max - the timeshare puppy.

2009-04-08T09:46:00.000-07:00

Well look at this super cute puppy! Papa got a "timeshare" dog recently and he wants our kids to help him train him and care for him. What is a "timeshare" dog you ask? He went halves with another family (Jim and Janet Lamb) to share the cost of the dog and to share caring for the dog too, as both are busy and like to travel. The kids love Max already and they just met him.

March 1st Grade Student of the Month

2009-04-08T09:38:00.000-07:00

Courtney was chosen out of 120 first graders to be the March student of the month at her school. She got to go to the School board meeting and receive an award from the principal and her teacher. We are so proud of you Courtney! Keep up the hard work!

Fishing with Papa

2009-03-15T09:07:00.000-07:00

One Saturday in March the kids got to go fishing with Troy and Papa out on the lake in Papa's boat.

Visit with Great Grandparents!

2009-03-04T10:59:00.000-08:00

It sure was great to see Grandma and Grandpa Ortlieb doing so well after 65 years of marriage and still going strong. My kids enjoyed visiting with thier great Grandparents while they were here for 3 weeks staying at my parents house. They had to go back to Wisconsin but my kids are still talking about them.

Mr. Brett as Brett Favre

2009-03-04T10:46:00.000-08:00

Brett had to do a biography book report at school and he chose to read and do a report on Brett Favre's life. Brett really enjoyed reading the book, and then presenting the book report orally to to his class dressed up like Brett. The night before it was due Brett needed to do a trial run in front of family, so he presented it to his Great Grandparents who were in town from Wisconsin. They thought he did a wonderful job and really enjoyed hearing about Brett Favres life. Great job Brett Jones.

Family Bowling ....

2009-02-15T14:30:00.001-08:00

Grandma and Grandpa Ortlieb and my dad.

My mom was actually the winner of the whole thing with a score of 145 and she had 3 strikes in a row! She's a competitive one!

It was a super rainy Saturday morning and we were looking for something to do yesterday so we headed to Reddings finest entertainment. BOWLING! We actually had a really good time, and the kids all improved from last time bowling. My Grandparents are here from Wisconsin and they even came along to watch. My brother and sister in law Eric and Rachel also came to town to see Grandma and Grandpa. For some reason we didn't get a photo of them. After bowling we went to Anderson to check out the logging show at the Shasta Fairgrounds in the pouring down rain. The backhoe rodeo was pretty entertaining. Then we went to Circuit City to check out the going out of business sale and to see if we could find a new t.v for my dad.

Happy Valentines!

2009-02-15T14:23:00.001-08:00

Must wear Red on Valentines since it is my favorite color! The kids each had fun Valentine activities at school on Friday and all came home with loads of pink and red treasures and lots and lots of Candy!! Except Kaylee she accidentally left her special valentine bag at school, so she will come home with hers on Tuesday. Troy was off again on Friday so he got to join me in visiting all the parties. I am loving our Friday dates every week, it will be sad when he has to go back to work full time, but we are still praying for more work!

Guess Who!

2009-02-09T11:15:00.000-08:00

I found these photos from a couple months ago in Brett's camera. He got to go crow hunting with his Papa and papas friend Jeff. He even got to use the camo blind to hide from the birds. He was so proud of his birds. Brett didn't actually get to shoot the ones he is holding but he got to practice his aim with his beebee gun! Brett was so cold and so hungary when he got home, but he didn't care cuz he had so much fun with his Papa.

A Monday Morning

2009-01-26T17:02:00.000-08:00

A couple of photos of our kids on this Monday Morning before school! It is about 29 degrees out and all frosty in the back ground.

Oh and by the way the cats name is cookie dough...

Cookie Dough

2009-01-26T16:57:00.000-08:00

Well wouldn't you know it the very next day after we decided to keep the cat, a neighbor lady told us that she is pretty sure this cat is expecting babies. NICE, so now we are going to have several kittys running around. The kids are so excited and we even are feeding it now! Can you believe the Jones family has a cat???? Keep on laughing! Its all for the kids! hee hee

Cat!

2009-01-11T19:37:00.001-08:00

Well anyone who knows me knows how much I like animals???!!! RIGHT? Well this cat has been hanging out at our house for about 2 months now and I couldn't even scare it off. I sprayed it with a hose, clapped my hands at it and yelled at it to go home for several weeks and still it stayed. We did not feed it or anything, but for some reason it likes our house. SOOOO now we are thinking of keeping it, and my kids are so excited.

I've been Tagged from Florida

2009-01-11T19:18:00.000-08:00

Okay Jill you tagged me to post my 4th folder, 4th photo this is NICE! It happens to be my kids photo file. And it is a cut up box that has been taped back together and filled with the loved stuffed animals. I am pretty sure no one reads my blog anymore so we will see if I get any comments. I tag Leah, Breanna, Mary, Jenny B, and Megan B.

Finally Meeting our new Cousin!

2008-12-31T15:48:00.000-08:00

Baby Brady James was born on Dec. 4th 2008, but due to some sickness the kids had to wait 3 weeks to meet their new cousin. The were very happy to hold him and see how cute he is. We love our new baby Brady.

Merry Christmas!

2008-12-25T10:58:00.000-08:00

We had a wonderful relaxing Christmas morning at our house. Papa and Grandma Dee and Grandma Charlotte came over at 7:30 a.m. to watch the kids open their presents. Grandma Charlotte brought over a really yummy Blueberry coffee cake so we used that as Baby Jesus' birthday cake. Then they left for awhile and then came back for dinner at 2 p.m. Along with Auntie Shirley, Uncle Glenn and my cousin Justin. We made tacos, our new Christmas dinner favorite. It was really nice to not have to go any where all day, as the kids just wanted to stay home and play.

Christmas Eve!

2008-12-24T10:45:00.000-08:00

We did our usual Christmas eve with our familys. We had a 6pm Christmas Eve service at Church which was really good. Charlotte played in the bell choir and did an excellent job. And then we headed to Charlottes for our annual crab and steak dinner. After the kids go to bed we play bingo for silly little prizes. This year the Havelcheks joined us as they got snowed out from their trip to Spokane. My Aunt Shirley, Uncle Glenn, and cousin Justin came, Pat Von came, and the Brogans got to join us this year too. We had a super fun night of laughter, fun and good family time. We really missed having Trent, Jill and kids there. And we also missed Nathan and Tina and their new baby Brady as they still have to stay home with thier new baby to protect him from germs and more infection. My kids are really
anxious to meet him soon.

Feeding the Raindeer at 10:45pm in the pooring down rain.

Brett didn't want to get his feet wet while feeding the raindeer.

Christmas Lights in Style

2008-12-20T07:27:00.000-08:00

My parents (Papa and Grandma) got to surprise our kids with a limo ride to dinner and to see all the Christmas lights around Redding. The kids were speechless when my mom knocked on the door to go on our Surprise Family Fun night and there was a limo waiting for them in the driveway.

We got a dropped off right in front of our towns downtown light display to walk around there.

Thank you Papa and Grandma for treating us to such a fun night of Pizza, Hot chocolate and seeing the Christmas lights in style.

Hot Chocolate for everyone!

2008-12-19T10:37:00.000-08:00

Troy even had hot chocolate with Butterscotch flavoring! Yum!
and it was on the house, so we had to drink it!

Courtney loved the hot chocolate and the 7-up in a Champagne glass.

Grandma Charlotte even got to come along with us!

Pink Blessings!

2008-12-14T07:14:00.000-08:00

We were blessed with a great box of girl clothes sent in the mail from my friend

Leah, and her daughter Emma, today! Oh how fun to get new clothes! Emma ~ Courtney and Kaylee love your clothes. Thank you Gomes family!

Troy Golfing Spy Glass

2008-12-14T06:49:00.000-08:00

Troy and Chad golfing on this beautiful Pebble Beach golf course last weekend. "Spyglass" overlooking the ocean. Thanks Chad for trading your teetime for Troy!

Weekend away together!

2008-12-10T12:13:00.002-08:00

Troy and I got to get away last weekend for 3 nights with no kids! We started our trip on Thursday morning after we dropped the kids off at school and then headed up to Mercy Hospital to see Nathan and Tina and their new baby boy Brady James Jones. He is very cute! Sorry no photos yet. Then we headed to Monterey to Kel. and Chads house. We hit a little Christmas shopping on the way down at the Gilroy outlets. Amazing Troy wanted to shop! We arrived right at dinner time and the Butlers were cooking up a gourmet meal that was amazing, they spoil us. The next day they took us to their secret golf ball searching spot, and we hunted golf balls right below the Pebble Beach Golf course. We found about 30 FREE golf balls. Just saving money! hee hee Chad and Troy headed from there to thier tee time at Spyglass golf course and golfed for free. Amazing! Kel and I shopped at the Del Monte Shopping Center, but first we had lunch at Cold Stone Ice Cream (kel's favorite). Then that night we met the guys at PF Changs for dinner. YUM! The next day we shopped for Christmas at REI, Best Buy and Costco. Headed from there to the movies, and saw "4 Christmases". Then to a really cool second hand store called plutos closet that we had so much fun finding designer jeans for cheap! Then since kel and I didn't make it to the salon to get manicures we decided to buy the stuff and do our own french Manicures. They turned out really well for a couple of high on acetone "not so girly" girly girls, and we saved money! :) The next day was Sunday and we got to go to Kel and Chads church for the 8 am service before we headed home. We really enjoyed the service and it was perfect as they set out doughnuts and coffee by the mountains for everyone so it was breakfast too. It was a super fun long weekend away! I didn't have my camera with me so sorry no photos. Chad has some photos of the guys golfing, so when I get some of those I will post them.

Jumping in the pool after dinner

2008-11-28T12:03:00.000-08:00

Wet suits are awesome! My kids really wanted to jump in the pool after dinner on Thanksgiving day! So they did! CRAZY! That water was really cold and would take your breath away even with the wet suit!

Thanksgiving Day!

2008-11-27T11:46:00.000-08:00

Okay So I am REALLY behind! Sorry JILL and LEAH!

Thanksgiving day was also my moms birthday so it was an extra special day! We celebrated Thanksgiving at Charlottes house and the day was beautiful. Tina is 9 months pregnant in this photo. Isn't she so cute!

Badmittin Party

2008-11-25T11:17:00.000-08:00

The Lindseys, the Goldens and the Jones' had a badmittin competiion! The Lindseys had home court advantage and won the whole tourney! It was a super fun Saturday afternoon! Thanks Linseys for hosting! We are going to practice up so we can take you guys on again!

Thankfulness Parties!

2008-11-25T10:50:00.000-08:00

Courtney and Kaylee got to have big Thanksgiving parties in their classes on Friday before our whole week Thanksgiving vacation! Whoever came up with the week off at Thanksgiving is Awesome! Anyway Kaylees class got to pray and recite Psalms 100 for all the parents before they ate their fiest. And Courtneys class got to share stone soup in which everyone brought something to share to go in it, bread rolls and homemade butter that they made that day, and of course pumpkin pie. Very fun day for everyone. Since Troy is down to working 4 days a week he got to join me in attending the class parties which was a new one for him. Then after school we went to Target and bought candy and headed to the movies (Bretts favorite thing in life) and saw Madagascar 2.

Hula Hoop Hips!

2008-11-16T14:02:00.001-08:00

We got to have a fun filled family day in Oroville yesterday. We left at 7:30 a.m. went and got donuts then picked up Grandma Charlotte from the Redding Airport, and then headed to Oroville where Kelly's husbands family lives. We had an early thanksgiving with them since Kel and Chad have weird work schedules for the holidays we won't see them until Jan 2nd. The kids had a blast playing with Kel and Chads other neices and nephew they did Hula hoops, scooters, bikes, wii , and went to the park . My kids came home wiped out. The guys got to go play 9 holes of golf , and the day was beautiful so we enjoyed being outside as much as we could. We had our Thanksgiving meal around 3pm and headed home around 6pm. Thank you Ken and Lorna for hosting such a great family day!

Tina's Baby Shower

2008-11-14T06:46:00.001-08:00

Tina's Baby shower ended up turning out really nice, and was a lot of fun. We did a fun project where we stamped on Onsie baby shirts and decorated them for the new Jones baby. Tina received lots of nice gifts and the food was good. Charlotte read a cute book, that made as all get choked up "I'll love you forever", and shared a few thoughts. Thank you to everyone who pitched in to make the shower all come together. Thank you mom for letting us use your house once again for an event, your huge counter tops were perfect for 27 people to stamp. We can't wait to see what God gives Nathan and Tina. Nathan thinks a baby boy, and Tina thinks a baby girl. It is so fun not knowing!

Sibling Bonding Time

2008-11-12T18:25:00.001-08:00

Well since my bro and sis were in town we got to spend some good quality time together. The day after my dads party we got to go hike Whiskeytown Falls, did 12 laps at Need 2 Speed, played kickball in the park, had a pizza party for dinner, and then went to our favorite place: the movies! What a great day!

Nov. 4th Dad turns 60 ~ Surprise Party

2008-11-12T18:17:00.001-08:00

My very young dad, turned 60 on November 4th and Kelly, Eric and I planned a surprise birthday party for him at his house a week earlier. And believe it or not he really was surprised to find a house full of his good friends and family, and everything was Green Bay packer colors. We had a great evening of food, laughter, silly games (including around the world pin pong and pin the football on Aaron Rogers), and we sent him on a scavenger hunt to find his present from our family. He found a new bike on the roof of his house.

Happy Birthday DAD!! We love you!

I've been tagged 2 times!

2008-11-06T11:17:00.000-08:00

I have been tagged by Megan and Breanna so I guess I better tell you 6 interesting facts about myself. You two are such great writers, this is going to be silly compared to your lists!

1. One of my favorite things in my life are my friends! God has blessed me with many, and I am so thankful for friendships new and old. I look forward to coffee together, walks, phone calls, workouts, scrapbooking together, emails, praying together and celebrating with one another lifes joys.

2. Sugar!!! I love to bake and eat goodies especially with Chocolate chips. Unfortunatly I am not going to be able to fit through the door if I don't slow down. ha ha So this week Troy and I have started to challenge each other. I have a goal, so if you see me stuffing my face, remind me to stay on it!

3. Dates with Troy! My husband is the coolest ever and I feel so blessed to have a husband that Loves the Lord! Troy you make me laugh, you are so encouraging, and helpful and I love that you are so consistant. You are my better half and I love you! When is our next date?

4. Okay now that I am all choked up, I love coffee! I better clarify cuz my mom and Charlotte think it is not coffee, because I really like the foo foo coffees. Sugar Free Coconut Cream latte, or Iced toffee nut latte at my favorites at the moment, HOWEVER, my morning latte has turned into a morning protein shake with espresso in it, but at least I still get my coffee fix.

5. I love to scrapbook, and create things with beads. These are two fun hobbies that I enjoy but don't find nearly enough time to do what I would like, mostly because I am too tired after my kids are finally in bed, all I want to do is crash on the couch for a bit. I do enjoy the all day scrabooking days, and a weekend away just to scrapbook with girlfriends.

6. I have so much fun when I get to spend one on one time with my kids. I doesn't happen very often, but I really enjoy when we get to go on dates together because they are so different when they are not competing for one anothers attention. Brett always chooses a date to the movie with me, Courtney always chooses All fired up to paint something, and Kaylee always chooses lunch or ice cream. Thier little personalities are so funny! I am pretty sure my love language is quality time what do you think?

Okay Megan and Breanna, are you happy? I tag Leah Gomes, and Jill Jones, Amber Finley and Mary Schneider.

Halloween '08

2008-11-01T16:12:00.000-07:00

Well it was a rainy night so not much trick or treatin was done but Kaylee and Brett hit the streets with mom and Grandma Dee. Courtney and I stayed at home because she was not feeling very good. Brett dressed up like a pirate and Kaylee was a princess. Courtney was going to be a Candy Corn. It was fun and they got a good amount of candy. Even some of the neighbors gave extra because Kaylee told them that her sister was sick and could not come out tonight with them.

Who's Idea Was This Anyway?

2008-09-23T19:39:00.001-07:00

Whiskeytown Relay Race

It has been a few years, but we decided to try the Whiskeytown relay race again. Almost 20 miles around the lake and we ran it. It was a huge accomplishment and it was tough but we can say it was fun, now that it is over! Lisa ran the first leg 4.5 miles mostly uphill, Angie ran the second leg 5.5 miles, I ran the 3rd leg 4.5 miles and the super athlete Lori ran the last leg 6.3. We didn't excatly win the race but we weren't last either. The name of our team was "Who's Idea Was This Anyway?".

Running Club Race

2008-09-18T14:11:00.000-07:00

Before the race!
Did I tell you my kids Brett and Courtney are doing Running Club? Practice 3 days a week (2 on race week), and a race once a week! AND it was Bretts idea! He is having fun with it and it gives him a chance to meet more kids at his new school. Courtney is enjoying it too. Their first race was last Thursday at Anderson River park, and it was really hot. Courtney ran a 1/4 mile (one lap of the course), and Brett had to run 1/2 mile. I was so proud of them, as there was no way I wanted to be running at 4 o'clock in the afternoon hot sun. They were troopers!
I will keep you posted as they have another race this Friday at Grant. Can you see Courtney?
Courtney excited to get a participant ribbon!
Can you see Brett?
.

Courtney's Soccer Game

2008-09-07T14:16:00.000-07:00

Courtney survived another 105 degree soccer game yesterday. Sherry made all the girls on the team matching hair bows - they did look very cute.

Labor Day Trip to Dunsmuir Park

2008-09-01T15:22:00.000-07:00

After Church on Sunday we went to Dunsmuir City Park along with Grandma Charlotte. We enjoyed the picnic lunch on the upper Sacramento River and luckly we had sweatshirts in the van because it was cold that day in Dunsmuir (low 70's with a breeze, it might have been in the high 60's). We had a fun walk along the river and then we did some relay races in the grass area. After the park Grandma treated us to softserve ice creams, although it was cool we still managed to eat the ice creams. It was a lot of fun.

Courtney Gets to Bring Home Class Pet

2008-08-31T15:14:00.000-07:00

Courtney's class pet was named Lola. She got to be the first kid in her class to bring home the class pet. So we picked up on Friday and got to keep it over Labor Day weekend. Oh by the way the class pet is a rat. So to say the least it stayed in the cage for the weekend. Courtney's favorite part of taking care of Lola was petting and feeding Lola carrots.

Courtney's Class Pet Lola.

Kid's Get Pool with their house before we do

2008-08-30T15:58:00.000-07:00

I would never have thought that our kids would have got a pool with their house before we did but what do you expect when it is over 100 degrees for days on end. As you can see they even have a slide with it right off the side of their house. (tj)

Brett Class Pet

2008-08-23T17:55:00.000-07:00

Brett got to bring home the class pet on the first weekend of school. It is a gecko named Angelo and he is 10 years old.

Here comes the Rangers

2008-08-22T15:27:00.000-07:00

Posted by TJ:

Well soccer season has began and Courtney is on the Rangers a U-8 coed soccer team. Brett is my historian and helper on the team when the temperatures are below 95 degrees. These photos were taken by Brett. We had opening ceremonies on a Friday night and the next day was our first game. It was only 110 degrees on Saturday but the kids did well. Courtney loves playing soccer an is one of 3 girls on the team. I should be a fun season as we all learn together.

Opening Ceremonies

Riding the BUS!

2008-08-21T16:34:00.001-07:00

So much fun to ride the bus home from school and so nice for mom. No fighting the traffic in and out of the very small parking lot; saves on gasoline too! If the bus is on time, they only have to ride it for 20 hot, sweaty minutes. Courtney's favorite part about riding the bus is "I get to ride with my 2 friends". Brett's favorite part of riding the bus is, "when I get off the bus". I think the bus maybe a little loud for him.

Troy turns 37!!!

2008-08-20T16:54:00.000-07:00

Photo taken by Brett M. Jones August 2008

Troy got to celebrate his birthday by going to work, having lunch with his wife, coaching soccer practice after work, and then dinner and cake with the five of us and my mom! Kinda stinks when your birthday lands in the middle of the week. It wasn't a whole weekend away or anything but we love you Troy, we hope your day was great and you felt loved.

Kaylee's first day of Kindergarden

2008-08-19T16:08:00.000-07:00

Kaylee started school a day after her brother and sister, but she was really excited to eat lunch at school and go from 8:30am-1pm like a big girl! She is still at Redding Christian school and has many friends in her class.

Brett and Courtney's first day at a new school!

2008-08-18T15:53:00.000-07:00

They survived they're first day at a new school! YEAH! All our and your prayers were heard! Thank you for thinking of our Brett and Courtney!

Sher's birthday trip to see Kel and Chad

2008-08-11T13:40:00.000-07:00

I got totally spoiled on my birthday, and got to take a trip to see my sis with my family. We took 12 hours to make at 5 or 6 hour trip. We stopped everywhere I wanted. Lunch, shopping, fun, Jelly Belly factory tour, more shopping, visited my mom, and then dinner. Kel had an awesome Cake waiting for me when we showed up at her house at 9:30pm (they were both working) So when they got off at 11:30pm we had cake and opened presents. While we were in Monteray we got to golf on Pebble Beach's mini course called "Peter Hay", we took the kids to the "Dennis the Menace" park (their favorite) we rented a paddle boat on a little lake next to the park for an hour, (that was a workout). We got to watch Kel play soccer in Salinas on an all girls adult team (she's still got the moves).Kel took me on a run, on the 17 mile drive (only about 3 miles) it was beautiful, the kids got to ride on aunt kelly and Uncle Chads new scooters and while Troy and Chad were golfing "Spanish Bay Links' course, Kel and I took the kids school clothes shopping for about 7 hours, and had Cold stone ice cream for dinner.

Oregon Fun with the Gomes Family

2008-08-01T09:14:00.000-07:00

What a blast we had in Oregon in the fresh cool air playing with our friends!

The kids and I took off for a 4 day, 3 sleep trip to see my College roommate Leah, her husband Jarvis, and her kids Emma and Kaden. Leah and I had so much fun catching up over our extra large lattes in the moring, and our island cokes after the kids went to bed. The first day we went to a really cool indoor park, as it was raining when we woke up that morning, then we went to the indoor city pool, and then we went to "all fired up" painting pottery place.
The next day we went to the Portland zoo where the animals were in rare form, they were actually up and active and exciting to see. Then we went to a really cool park where we had a pizza picnic for dinner. Leah, Jarvis, Emma and Kaden thank you for such a fun time at your house! We gotta keep up our summer Jones/Gomes family gatherings

Visit from Uncle Kurt and Aunt Patti

2008-08-01T08:09:00.000-07:00

My dads brother, Kurt and his wife Patti got to drive their Harley out to California to visit for a couple days. It was so good to see both of them, visit and catch up a little. Today August 1st is Uncle Kurts birthday! happy birthday uncle Kurt! Anyway, I thought this was a cute photo of my mom and dad, Uncle Kurt and Aunt Patti. Thank you two for making the huge effort to come see us, it means a lot!

Idaho Slide show ~ July 2008

2008-07-24T10:33:00.000-07:00

Family Vacation fun

2008-07-24T09:57:00.001-07:00

Our family got the chance to take a family vacation to McCall Idaho for 7 days where we got to stay in my parents Condo, relax, have family time, go to the lake, and the river with our wonderful tour guide Cousins Karen, Kerry, Ryan and Jake. Then we spent 2 days in Boise with Cousins Rich, CheRee, Talon and Bryce. We were gone a total of 10 days, which was the perfect amount to time to make you excited to get back home and do chores and get back to work.

4th of July- McCall Idaho

2008-07-14T21:59:00.000-07:00

We had a fun filled 4th in McCall Idaho on Payette Lake for a Jones family day with lots of cousins. Hiking, swimming, eating, and nerf gun wars filled the day.

VBS 2008

2008-07-02T08:58:00.000-07:00

The kids enjoyed a week of Vacation Bible School at a local Church, Crosspoint Community. It was a Hawai theme so they got to dress hawaian theme everyday. They learned to Believe the Truth, Speak the truth, and Live the Truth.

Brett and Courtney at Mt. Meadows

2008-07-02T08:03:00.000-07:00

Brett and Courntey got to go to Mt. Meadows summer camp in early June. They were there 3 days and 2 nights. They came home singing all kinds of new songs, which was Courtneys favorite part, they got to stay up late and play Mission Impossible with flashlights, which was bretts favorite part, and got to have S'mores around the campfire. Brett will move up next year to Junior camp which is 5 nights maybe their cousins Derek and Macie should come to Mt. Meadows next year, it would be fun!

Our baby turns 5......

2008-06-17T09:51:00.000-07:00

Can you believe Kaylee is 5 already? We can't! Life sure flies by with kids! Kaylee got to have a birthday party here at our house with 5 friends. It was a water party even though the day was bit cool, the kids still played in the water and did slip and slide. We got to have a pinata too. Kaylee had a great day and felt loved!

Courtney and Kaylee in PINK!!!

2008-06-17T09:38:00.000-07:00

The girls got to be flower girls for a friends wedding (Ashley and Matt O'Bannon). They were really excited to wear the PINK dresses and sprinkle flowers down the isle. They did a great job and looked so cute. After walking down the isle they got to sit on the steps during the ceremony and entertain the audience.

Courtney's Kindergarden Promotion

2008-06-06T23:04:00.001-07:00

Our little Courtney graduated from Kindergarden this week from Redding Christian school! They had a super cute ceremony where the kids recited Psalms 23, and sang several songs to us.

Courtney with her Certificate!

Kaylee and Courtney

Brett Turns 9 ~Happy Birthday BRETT!!!

2008-06-06T22:51:00.000-07:00

The boys all put on fake mustaches before they went on their "SPY / TREASURE HUNT".

Brett had a Nerf Gun/ Treasure hunt / SPY / Swim party with a water gun fight and also a pinata for his 9th birthday! He had made all these plans in his mind what his party was going to be so we tried to incorporate it all in a 2 hour party including lunch! Brett had a blast and felt really loved!