sam i am

Kate's Wedding

2011-11-17T16:15:00.000-08:00

My beautiful niece Kate was married to her husband Matt in August in the Newport Temple. Gorgeous! Dan's mom and dad and Uncle Ted and Aunt Susan came for the wedding.

We had a fun and crazy ride to San Diego for some good bbq with them that no one will forget.

At Kate's wedding they made these adorable gift boxes for the little cousins and Sam thought he was in heaven playing with every cute thing wrapped inside. They also had a dance for all the married couples to see who had been married the longest and the results, both of Kate's grandparents!

2011-11-17T13:36:00.000-08:00

Sam had a fun time with his cousin Samantha and Grandpa Bean as grandpa took them on a tour of his College-UVU. Grandpa has been a Accounting Professor there for over 30 years!

Grandpa LOVES fishing and his grand kids, so what better thing to do than to take his grandkids fishing. We went to Mirror Lake in American Fork Canyon and each kid was able to catch a fish! Thanks Grandpa and Grandma for putting it all together!

Cousins!

Sam gets a lot of attention when we go to Utah. After visiting with my family for awhile, we visited Dan's parents. Grandma Stromberg took Sam to Hogle Zoo, which brought back a flood of memories for me. The day got better as grandma took mommy to Costa Vida, a treat for me, since I only get to eat there when I visit Utah. But then we topped it off with a visit to the Sweet Tooth Fairy! We had so much fun! Thanks Grandma!

A few random shots of Sam playing with his dad's old car mat that Grandma Stromberg made and Sam posing with Grandma's necklaces from different islands she's visited. Crazy boys and their ideas of silly and cool! Left-right: Tristan, Sam, Liam and Luke.

A must for me when I come home to Utah is to have breakfast in the canyons with the family, a tradition my Grandpa Johnson started. So we went to Provo Canyon for Pioneer day and began celebrating. A few random shots of the family. Just missing Danno and my sister Ashley and her husband Jordan.

The kids decided they needed to go on an adventurous hike. It started with a few ninja moves and then climbing the dangerously tall table and finally the tallest tree. When climbing the tree, they felt it necessary their picture be taken to mark how brave they were. Koala Sam.

Here are two pictures of Sam's cousins. The first, Sam screaming! The second, all is well now that he gets to hold his Baby Cousin Josie's hand. Crazy child!! I also love the look that Mia is giving Baby Josie. Little boys can be CRAZY, SILLY and this was there idea of fun! They repeatedly came to me asking me to take a picture of them, each time getting a little messier.

Rain or shine, we were determined to find a little FREE water park fun for the kiddos. We finally ran into a cute park near Herriman.

It was a must on my list that we stop by the replica house of "UP!" It was pretty cool.

Last minute fun before it all ends and it's time for us to say our goodbyes. Grandpa Bean and Uncle Tom took us to Cabelas. We had a pajama party and we went to a fun bounce house!

Strombergs Visit Nixon Library

2011-11-17T12:58:00.001-08:00

We decided it would be fun to visit Nixon's Library, since visiting presidential libraries is something we've tried to do when we are near them. The grounds were beautiful.

I absolutely fell in love with the sweet cottage his father had built. Inside was a floor layout of just what you would barely need to live by and nothing more, SIMPLICITY!

We also saw a piece of the Berlin Wall and the helicopter President Nixon took his last flight on as the serving president.

Fourth of July Festivities

2011-11-17T12:15:00.001-08:00

For the 4th of July we celebrated the week with Sam participating in my in-law's ward kid bike parade and enjoyed a pancake breakfast with them and my friend Tamara's family. Sam wanted to make a firecracker popper, we had fun with daddy at the Beach Club and sparklers with Sam's cousins.

Summer Fun at the Beach Club

2011-11-17T11:47:00.001-08:00

We have spent lots and lots of time this past summer at the Beach Club. But it was always super fun, when we spent it with our friends there.

This is Sam and his little friend Logan. Logan's mom has been a special and super awesome friend to me since we moved here to California. Very grateful for that friendship.

Both of our families had a fun bbq this day, part of the fun at this local spot!

Sam's Last Day of Preschool of 2011

2011-11-17T11:42:00.001-08:00

Sam is proudly modeling the candy necklace we made for his teachers!

For Sam's last day in preschool when it was time to pick him up, the teachers invited the parents to come in the class room and share a song and a thank you in honor of the end of the year with them.

Sam had such a GREAT experience at PCOM! I will always be grateful for the moments he had there with his teachers and his friends he made as well as the friends I made.

Sam Visits the Discovery Museum

2011-11-17T10:35:00.000-08:00

Dan and I took Sam to the Discovery Museum while they had the Potato Head Exhibit. Funny though, we didn't cspture any pictures of the Potato Head Displays.
Lots of fun, since Sam has a love for that funny little toy.

Strombergs Visit La Brea

2011-10-24T11:55:00.000-07:00

So life has been a little crazy around here, hence the reason for slacking on keeping the blog updated. But we feel we are just about back to normal, as I sit here and type smelling paint fumes while Dan runs around trying to complete everything for Scouts, his second calling that he will be done with by Wednesday. But I will get to that later.

Dan has been wanting to visit La Brea Tar Pits since we moved here. La Brea is known for having the largest Ice Age Animal fossils.

The tar pits outside are quite the site to see and smell, all right there in the heart of Los Angeles.

Visit With Grandma & Grandpa Stromberg

2011-06-09T23:06:00.000-07:00

Dan's parents came for their annual spring visit. They stay at the Newport Beach Marriott Resort and we have the luxury of playing there. So much fun!

Dan's Mom wanted to enjoy some Disneyland time with little Sam, so it was a perfect excuse to go to the Magic Kingdom. We had lots of fun and I think we were worn out sooner than the older couple. Whew!!

On their last day here with us, they were able to attend Sam's preschool Parade of Countries. Sam's class presented Japan! They sang a little rhyme all about features on their face.

"Kuchi (mouth) -hana (nose) -me(eyes) -mimi(ears)"

Easter/Mother's Day

2011-06-09T22:54:00.000-07:00

For Easter this year, Danno was working and so it was just Sam and I for Easter Morning and it began quit early, for me that is.
Those tired eyes are quite delighted that the Easter Bunny was able to find him a TMNT Party Van!
A Mother's Day Present for me. My first time to sub for Sam's primary class was on Mother's Day and I couldn't have asked for a better present. Such fun.

Audrey-Ben-Porter-Sam-all 4 years old

Spring Break Fun

2011-05-17T10:38:00.000-07:00

My sisters Suzie and Ashley brought their kids here to California for spring break. Sam loved every minute of it. We miss them already.
Sam, Tristan and Liam

Liam, Tristan and Mia had never been to the beach or seen the ocean for that matter so we brought them to Laguna Beach for a picnic and seashell hunting.

My sisters Ashley and Suzie

Sand Pancakes = Yum!

I took Sam and Tristan out closer to the surf to retrieve some water and as the waves came in we came in contact. Tristan did not come out too dry. Whoops!

The pants are out to dry.

Liam thinking deep thoughts.

Tristan and Sam

Ashley and Sam

The boys before the next adventure, playing as if they had never been apart.

My friend Tamara invited us to Lake Mission Viejo to ride on a boat and play on the beach. Her son Logan brought a giant sized frisbee that the boys were more than willing to help carry.

The boys also didn't mind catching a ride with Aunt Ashley, aah the easy life.

If that wasn't enough fun at the lake, Tamara treated us to yogurt at their Golden Spoon store. When we got back we cleaned up and headed to the Rain Forest Cafe at South Coast Plaza.

I figured the boys would LOVE the cafe, but I forgot that Mia maybe would not so much. She stayed pretty close to her mommy.

In the plaza they have this beautiful carousel that obviously attracted the kids. They so badly wanted a ride, not realizing that grandpa had bought them tickets to Disneyland for the next day that would be a little more exciting. If you think this is fun Liam, just wait until tomorrow.

Aunt Ashley graciously offered to stay home with little Mia while we played at Disneyland. I believe it was a little more enjoyable for Suzie this way, thanks Ash!

Disneyland on day 3 and they loved every minute of it, oh except the LINES! This was Tristan and Sam's ride throughout Disneyland. Suzie pushed Liam in his stroller and the younger ones were lucky and got to share theirs.

Their Spiderman feet.

HOLLYWOOD

2011-05-17T10:06:00.000-07:00

As with every place we have lived, we adventure out to see the local sites and attractions. So our little family jumped into the car and headed to Hollywood to see the sites. Half way there Sam asked, "What's Hollywood?" Good question Sam! We tried to explain what and who famous stars are. I still don't think he quite got it.
First stop: Madame Tussauds Wax Museum
Sam, Dan & Shrek
Simon & me. I was being told by Dan to sit closer. Initially I was a little creeped out by how real it seemed.

My favorite star Audrey Hepburn

Dan ran into George Burns and Bob Hope

Tom Hanks and a not so sure Sam.

Sam and Spiderman!

Sam and who he thinks is the star of "Alvin" from the Chipmunks. He kept asking everytime he saw an "A," "Is this it?" So we finally said, "YES!"

Sam's Field Trip to the Strawberry Farm

2011-04-03T07:28:00.000-07:00

As one of the room mothers for Sam's preschool, we arrange play dates for our kids. The strawberries were ripe for picking so I arranged for a wagon ride at Tanaka Farms for strawberry picking. Sam,Joey and Max preschool buddies.

During our wagon ride to the strawberry field, our driver and tour guide would stop at several areas of the farm and share with us the vegetables they were growing and they were yummy. They gave me enough vegetables to make salads for a week!

Our tour guide showing us some banana trees. A year and a half for them to grow, not quite warm enough here them to produce any fruit.

Let the strawberry picking begin!

Sam learned from Disney's "Special Agent Oso," twist and pull, and he did it well.

After filling up our basket we were allowed to EAT ALL we wanted. YUM!!!

Celebrating the Green at Disneyland

2011-03-18T22:19:00.000-07:00

This year for St. Patrick's Day we played at Disneyland with our Disneyland buds Logan, Cora and their mommy Tamara.
Later that day Sam found a trail of gold coins a little leprechaun left behind. All in all, Sam was left wondering why it has to be all over the next day.

Happy 38 Danno!

2011-03-18T21:51:00.000-07:00

March is the month for birthdays over here and now it was time to celebrate Danno's big day. Sam asked as Dan's birthday was approaching, "What kind of birthday is Daddy going to have, a Sponge Bob Birthday?" Not thinking that would go over well we celebrated 70's style, the decade Dan was born. We had Dan's brother Jeff and his wife Jennie over and served fondue for dinner and a variety of other 70's era food. Sam's favorite addition to the night, the groovy spinning ball.

My "Boys."

The night ended playing "Go Fish" with our disco cards.

Sam's Birthday at Preschool

2011-03-18T18:12:00.000-07:00

Sam got to celebrate his birthday with all his preschool friends and bring his mommy and a favorite treat to share with them. Sam sets the table with his rice krispy treats for all his friends.

We all sit down for our special snack.

Sam's teachers invited me to spend the day with Sam at school. This was fun to see how he plays and learns with all his cute friends. They all love each other so much.

Sam says at recess he and his friends play super hero even though the teachers have told them not to, he says it's a secret. What a stinker!

Sam Turns 4 Ninja Style!

2011-03-18T16:47:00.000-07:00

The streamers and banner have been hung, the balloons have been placed, the cake by grandma has been baked and the 4 year old is ready to party. It was time to celebrate Sam's 4 year birthday.

The party has begun, friends and family have come to wish our little Red a happy fourth year!

The Ninja Turtle sword fight and Johnny is losing.

Sam's birthday wishes came true! He received lots of GREAT presents, but his first request when asked what he wanted for his birthday was his cousins, aunts, uncles and grandmas and grandpas would be able to come. So Grandma and Grandpa Bean made the trip out to be here for his special day.

This one is for you Rick and Leah! Thanks for Sam's birthday present, but daddy has claimed it!

The party is over. The fun has been had! A 4 year old "Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle" lover is one happy boy and we LOVE him!!

Sam Visits Ladera Ranch Fire Station

2011-02-25T16:56:00.000-08:00

Sam and his little buddies from preschool visited the Ladera Ranch Fire Station.
Sam and his buddies amused at their friend Max getting all dressed up in fireman clothes.

Brave Max!

Smart firemen keep the kids together by holding onto fire hose throughout the tour. The kids believed they were doing their duty to help out the firemen.

Sam a little nervous about shooting the water out of the fire hose.

Sam and Ryan being crazy.

Happy Valentines

2011-02-25T16:47:00.000-08:00

Sam wearing pink for preschool pink day, while enjoying his hard work from decorating the Valentine cookies.

Daddy gladly satisfying Sam's desire to wear a special Valentine's balloon hat.

Sam's Valentine bag, made at preschool.

Las Flores Ward Iron Chef Parables

2011-02-25T08:09:00.000-08:00

In my church calling I am over the Beehives (ages-12-13).
My advisor and I helped our young women plan a combined activity, meaning it would be for all the young men and women. They decided on the Iron Chef and so we turned that into the Iron Chef Parables activity I had read about online.
They were placed in their groups with a variety of ingredients and were to turn cakes into something that would tell the story of a parable or any other scripture story.
When time ran out they were to carry the cake up to the judges to present and to be judged.

Judges table!

My advisor Lisa and Laurel advisor Amber.

Smiles from my Beehives and winning award certificate.

I Can Write My Name, "Sam"

2011-02-02T15:35:00.000-08:00

Sam has become obsessed with writing his name. He went through one sketch book and asked for a new one so he could keep practicing. It all started when he asked to make Star Wars Valentines for his friends. I said that would be fine, however he has to learn to write his name so he can sign them all. This was his first attempt at putting his letters all together, with the added ocean and sand below.

Griffith Observatory & Hollywood Sign

2011-02-02T14:43:00.000-08:00

Sam and I are the dots on the top far left of the Griffith Observatory.
Sam looking for aliens. He was also looking for everyone from Despicable Me, he thought they would be there.

I know, I know I am so photogenic. Although what the picture did capture is the personality of my TYPICAL, SILLY boy! Me (lovely) and my crazy Sam in front of the telescope. Dan having his intellectual conversation with Mr. Einstein

After very many tight winding turns, we made it to our destination!

Trip to Utah

2011-01-23T17:03:00.000-08:00

My niece Hilary & Eric were married in SLC and we flew out to Utah to be a part of this event. This was not the best of flights we have had. We flew Jet Blue with a 7 pm take off and were delayed until almost 11 at night due to weather. Thank goodness Sam was an Angel. Unfortunately on Dan's way home it didn't get any better. He and my in-laws flight was cancelled. Having to get back to work, they decided to rent a car and face the storm by road. Needless to say it was not a pretty trip home but they arrived safe. Luckily the rest of Sam's and my stay went well.
Hilary was once a flower girl for our wedding and now she is the beautiful bride, time flies!

Grandma & Grandpa Stromberg, Jeff & Dan.

Little Red in the Joseph Smith Building.

Since Dan could only be there for the day of the wedding, my family drove up to SLC to see him. Mom, Sam and Mia (Suzie's daughter.)

Our first pictures with Sam on Temple Square.

Perfect timing! My younger brother Andy and his wife Kirsten had their beautiful baby Josie during our stay in Utah.

Andy, Josie and Sam!

My awesome brother Joel offered to take Sam and Joel's daughter Samantha sledding. This was Sam's second time to go sledding and oh boy did he LOVE it!

Yum!!

2011-01-23T16:57:00.001-08:00

People may say it's funny I post a picture of a sink full of oranges, but this was part of the excitement that I looked forward to in owning a house in California. This December my tree produced it's first bushel of oranges and oh boy were they yummy!!

Christmas 2010

2011-01-23T16:30:00.000-08:00

This was Sam's first Christmas to really get it! He was very excited to set up the Christmas tree this year. Being a "Charlie Brown" fan he felt it was necessary that after we were done setting up we should hold hands and sing around the tree. Oh, the things we do for the ones we love.
Sam, Cousins Kate, John and Caroline. Sam really was happy, I believe the look was from the delay in opening up the gift. This was a family gift that was bells from Aunt Jen. Lots o' fun!!
Sam's Christmas loot.

Oh how Sam loved his gifts. Cupcake set, Playmobil castle, Knight set, talking Spiderman, Dr. Kit and his gift to me, my Angel Sam picture.

Sam's Christmas Program

2011-01-23T16:24:00.000-08:00

Sam attends PCOM (Presbyterian Church of the Master) Preschool and they performed a Christmas play for their mommies and daddies. Sam told us he was going to be a Shepard. He would come home from his practices singing his memorized songs; Jingle Bells & Twinkle Twinkle Christmas Star.

Sam did a great job for his performance. The first half he wouldn't take his eyes off of us, but at least there were no tears. We were VERY proud of our Red! In the front row are some of his little friends: Bennett and Max as the lamb.

Disneyland

2011-01-21T16:56:00.000-08:00

My friend and I have decided to take advantage of all the Disneyland fun with the kids and to go there a few times a month.
This was a necessary picture, since they will be taking down the famous "CALIFORNIA" letters soon. Tamara, Cora, Sam, Mickey, Logan and me.
Buzz was Sam's favorite ride and certainly not forgotten, however in Tune Town the Gadgets Go Coaster is what gives Sam his biggest thrill!

Sam and Logan had loads of laughs on Autopia.

If you're going to be stuck in jail, Disney is the place to be

Happy 38TH

2011-01-21T16:25:00.000-08:00

December was a very busy month and when you throw my birthday in the mix it doesn't help poor Dan much. Although he did an amazing job at making the day special.
This is what I found when I came down stairs.
Very cute! His decided theme for my birthday: Pink Princess!! The special day included: from our favorite bakery; doughnuts for breakfast, lunch with my favorite boys at Nordstrom Cafe with a visit to Santa for Sam (insert tears for Sam), shopping at South Coast Plaza and dinner made by Dan with the company of Dan's brother's family which endedg in an epic balloon fight. Later that week I had lunch again at my favorite Nordstrom Cafe with a friend and then went shopping at the L.A. Fashion District with my cute sister-in-law Jen and niece Kate. So much fun!!

Las Flores Christmas Party

2011-01-21T10:39:00.000-08:00

A little more work than I realized but worth the fun it was in doing it.
My ward asked twelve (or so) women to come up with a Christmas theme table for the ward Christmas party. My lovely sister-in-law Jen went shopping with me and then all the creations were sewn and put together, snow people, table cloth, napkins, napkin rings and ribbons tied on the See's chocolates. Yep a lot of work and Dan thought we were CRAZY, but really it was SO much fun!

Hilary's Bridal Shower

2010-12-05T10:05:00.000-08:00

Our niece Hilary was in town to visit her fiance's family for Thanksgiving, so Jen decided we should throw her a shower from the California Stromberg side of the family.
The "Wishing & Advice Tree."
"Winter Wonderland " theme.

Aunt Jen with Hilary

Eric (groom), Hilary (bride), me, Sam (the happy one) and Danno.

Thanksgiving 2010

2010-12-05T09:56:00.001-08:00

Our 2010 Thanksgiving this year was spent with Uncle Jeff's Family at their place.
Sam proudly shows us his Indian attire he made at preschool.

Sam's cousin Jon playing Playmobil with Sam, and Sam is loving every minute of it!

Jeff & Dan

Jen and her kids (Jon, Caroline & Kate)

Me & my boy

Playdate at Zoomars

2010-11-18T17:12:00.000-08:00

As one of the room mothers for Sam's preschool, I arranged for a play date at Zoomars recommended by a friend. It was a HIT! Most of the kids loved it. I was shocked to see how Sam showed NO fear in feeding the aggressive goats and sheep and riding not just a pony but a BIG horse. One of the cowboys from Zoomars picked him up and plopped him right up there and Sam didn't reach out or call for me and if you know Sam that's good for him! I was proud of him and told him he was like a Super Hero. To Sam that means a lot, to be a Super Hero.

Farmer Jim Day

2010-11-18T17:06:00.000-08:00

Sam's preschool has wonderful field trips that come to the school. This one was the one he was most excited for. He talked about it for days, knowing that Farmer Jim was coming to his school and bringing his animals for him to pet. He was very concerned they would eat their school grass and then they wouldn't have any. Funny boy!

Great Night Great Friends

2010-11-18T16:58:00.000-08:00

Some fabulous friends (Tull Family) from Dan's BYU ROTC had made a visit to the states from Fiji and during their stops along the way the Linton's and us were lucky enough to meet up with them at Cheesecake Factory and later at the Linton's house.

Superhero Halloween

2010-11-08T22:13:00.000-08:00

Robin was the pick for Halloween this year for Sam. We knew it would be a man of some sort of amazing strengths and powers.

Sam gladly welcomed all the festivities he was able to suit up for in his Robin costume.

Little Red Starts School

2010-09-12T08:45:00.000-07:00

Sam started preschool this year and boy was he excited.
He's attending Presbytarian Church of the Masters (PCOM) Preschool. I had heard from ward friends that this was a great school for social, motor skills, christian based and a great place at being a kid.
Sam's school requires a tote bag and Sam wanted Batman, like Pottery Barn's Backpacks. Well finding a Batman tote bag is impossible, so I made it. He was content.

Sam with two of his new preschool friends, Bennett and Tyler and Sam with the look of "Really Mom!"

Sam's teacher Mary Jo and assistant teacher Mrs. Felton.
The first day of school, they grouped the kids at different times in small groups so they could introduce them to the classroom, teachers and procedures of the day. There will be 16 kids in Sam's class.

The "play ground." He was so excited to play on the equipment.

The celebratory lunch at McDonalds, with everyone else from South Orange County. Dan and I were a little glad to escape the place.

Sam with Mary Jo on his second day. Sam saying, "Mom it's okay I'll be fine." Then me leaving with tears, I know I am a SAP.

Sam was the first of his class that got to bring home their class room pet "Mike." Sam gets him for one week and was so proud to be bringing him home!

Last Trip of the Summer

2010-09-12T08:00:00.000-07:00

We took one more trip out to Utah before the summer ended and Sam started school.
This is not the best picture, but it was so cute how Sam wanted to help Grandpa Stromberg with their dog Sadie and they were just having a nice little conversation outside before bed time.
Sam was determined that I took a picture of the COOL Batman Motorcycle toy grandma Stromberg bought for him.

Sam with his favorite Baby Cousin Mia, that he loves to "pet."

Some of my family went out for yogurt at Farr's Fresh and of course these three little boys could not stop being silly and loved every minute of each others company.

When Luke, Liam, Tristan and Sam got together this time the main play time was spent as "Super Heros."

Mom, Suzie and I ran an errand to Walmart and you can see that Sam and Tristan were all tuckered out from their hard playing. I was actually able to lift Sam's car seat right out of the car and straight into the cart, they slept the whole time!

A few events happened while I was in Utah this time that made me very glad to be there.

Stephanie Foulk, one of my very first young women from New Jersey was married and had her reception in Utah so I was able to attend that. It was like a reunion from Jersey there. Besides the Foulk Family we saw the Schonemans, Feuz and Nortons. I miss that ward and all the families a ton. Such great people.

Side note: Stephanie's mother-in-law is in the same ward as my brother-in-law's parent's in Illinois. My mom and dad took a trip out their with my sister and brother-in-law and met Stephanie's future mother-in-law, having no idea who she was and that she would see her soon in Utah at her son's wedding. CRAZY!

Uncle Tom giving Sam a bike ride, he LOVED it!

We took my parents to my Mom's favorite place to eat, Sizzler and here are some of the kiddos that drive her batty but they ADORE her!
The Willes Reunion. Ever since I was little they have held this reunion and for the last 13 years of marriage I have not been able to attend one. This time it worked out for me to be there at the same time it was held. Here are the last two of my grandmother's siblings left. I have to admit I got a little emotional seeing them. Here is a little saying that was made up to remember all her siblings names in order:

"Douglas" heard the "Echo" of the "Bell" just a "Hellen" through the "Castle" after "Dean" and "Paul."

Dean is on the right and Paul on left.

My mom with Aunt Sharon at the Willes Reunion.

I love my mom's family. They were so awesome to drive down from SLC to join my family for a birthday celebration.

An Unexpected Visit

2010-08-06T19:00:00.000-07:00

Dan's brother Jeff was put in as a 1st counselor in the bishopric for his ward (our church). So their parents decided to make an unexpected visit for the occasion.
Sam really put Grandpa Stromberg to work during their stay. Every morning we found Sam downstairs with grandpa joining him on the floor playing board games, Sam's rules! We know Sam enjoyed it but not sure about grandpa's knees.

SAM

2010-08-06T18:23:00.000-07:00

So I was doing a little window shopping on the Melissa & Doug website and clicked on their blog, and low and behold I found Sam's twin! I had to see if my eyes were properly working and to check with Danno. I copied the picture off the website and showed him. His reply was, "I've never seen that toy before." Fooled him, did I fool you? Of course when you see them together you can see the subtle differences, but when we saw it alone it was kind of crazy how similar they were.

Happy Fourth 2010

2010-07-13T12:59:00.002-07:00

It was fun to have family with us to celebrate Independence Day. Dan's brother Jeff and family joined us at our house after church for a 4Th of July BBQ.
After dinner, Sam's amazing cousins took him outside to introduce him to snap pops. Later that night we drove over to Jeff's house and hiked up a hill near there where we had an amazing view of many of South Orange County's fire work displays.

Happy Father's Day to Our Super Hero Daddy!

2010-07-13T12:38:00.004-07:00

Danno has been an amazing father and husband and we were glad to celebrate this day for him and our fathers. I am so proud and grateful for Dan for all the crazy things he has endured this past year as a provider for Sam and I, changing jobs, moving across the nation and then practically remodeling our new house. He has been through a lot to make our lives happy and we love him for all he has done for us. Here he is pleasantly surprised by the new mt. biking shirt I gave him.

Utah June 2010

2010-07-12T15:14:00.014-07:00

A summer trip to Utah for Sam and me.
Below are Sam and some of his cousins, who can cause a lot of craziness and laughter.
Tristan

Liam

Luke

Our first stop was a much needed one as I had never met my niece Mia. We stopped in Springville at my sister's house and I got my satisfaction from holding this cutie.

Sam was more than anxious to see his cousins and get right into the playing. Wolverine!

It never fails, Sam always seems to play matchy-match with one of his cousins and he thinks it's pretty cool to look like Luke!

My brother Joel and Tom and I went with my mom and our kids to the Million Dollar Park.

Sam and Tristan had a lot of outdoor fun! It was really cute because they would stand within inches of each other so they could get the bullets on each other's vests and they thought they were doing the game just right!

Buddies! Never know what these two little critters are up to!!

Sam and Luke have an almost brotherly like relationship. Sam looks up to Luke at whatever he does. Luke tries to help out Sam. They love to play with each other but they also have their brother-like fights too. It's pretty special.

Oh how he LOVES them! Sam's face shows it all. Sam's relationship with his cousins is pretty special. His little personality shines when he's with these guys.

Sam and this little sweetie have a special bond with each other as well because they share a similar name. Samantha is just a few weeks older than Samuel and they have a great time together.

My little Sis. Ash, had a great idea of inviting all her cute nephews and niece to the Provo Pool for some much needed water fun and they LOVED it! They each had fun in their own way whether it was going down the water slide or just sticking right where they were bouncing in the water.

This is how Sam will always remember his Grandma Bean: M&Ms! When the grand kids come to grandma's house they know they will always find m&ms in this cup in her room.

Sam gets lots of loving when we go to Utah. Grandma and Grandpa Stromberg do a great job of loving and spoiling this kid. When we arrived for our visit to Grandma & Grandpa Stromberg's house, grandma had some fun new toys to spoil little Sam with. Laser and water guns and lots of yummy food!

One of Sam's favorite toys to play with there is Dan's old school Sesame Street Little People.

We had lots of fun playing at their house, and we even visited the new fire station up the street, fed ducks at Sugar House Park, had a water fight with grandpa and rode on a carousel.

Sam actually had two visits to a fire station. The second time was with his cousins. My brother-in-law Billy has a relative that is a fire fighter for Orem. He invited us to come and have our own special tour of his station. Lots of fun for the kids. They toured the house, the ambulance, and the fire fighters even hooked up a hose outside and turned it on for them to have the ULTIMATE water fun!

Christian was the lucky one to try on THE desired outfit.

Sam and I were able to be in Utah for Liam's 5th "Transformer" birthday and boy did Sam think that was cool. He is really into the whole super hero thing, be it Transformers, Superman, Batman, Spiderman or as many of the pictures show, fire fighters!

The birthday game of Transformer, Transformer send ? right over!

We had a great time filled with lots of playing, fighting, crying, eating, pretending, laughing, loving and visiting!

Newport Coast Resort

2010-06-28T20:03:00.005-07:00

Grandma and Grandpa Stromberg came for their spring visit to California to see their kids. Every year they try to make plans to stay at their condo in Newport and then everyone comes and hangs out there rather than our houses. It is pretty entertaining to my amazement.
I wasn't quite sure that it would be entertaining enough for a 3 year old, but my Sister-in-law Jen kept saying Sam would love it. Sam thought the life size checkerboard was pretty cool. The swimming pool behind Sam is twice as big as the picture shows and they played a movie at night time for you to watch from the pool. He also loved the playground, sandbox, basketball court, putting green, arcade room and kids play room with a popcorn machine. Sam loved to visit grandma and grandpa at their fun place.

Another bit of entertainment for Sam, feeding the Koi.

A few days after grandma and grandpa left, our Niece Caroline performed in her school play as the lead Ariel. Sam loved seeing his favorite babysitter pretending to be a mermaid and singing and I would have to say she was AMAZING!!

Ready, Set, Race...

2010-05-13T09:39:00.006-07:00

Shortly after moving into the Las Flores Ward I was given two callings, Activity Day Girls and Cub Master. Being called as Cub Master shook me up a little, because I have never served in the Cub Scout program and so all I knew was from watching my Dad serve while all my brothers went through the program.
As my calling pregressed I was given some amazing leaders to work with and I quickly gained some confidence.
My first two pack meetings went well and then there was the Pinewood Derby. I was a little nervous with how it would all run, but once again with everyone's help it really went well.

I was also fortunate to live close to my amazing sister-in-law Jenny. I knew I needed to call upon her help, with her skills of party throwing. So together we really made this event look super special for the Cub Scouts.

"Pit Road" for car repairs

"Weigh in Point"'

"Raceway"

"Pit Stop Alley"

The Scouts did a great job on their cars and had some very clever designs.

The scouts were aching to devour the refreshments and refuel their bodies!

A House Full of Visitors and Summer Hasn't Even Begun

2010-05-12T08:02:00.013-07:00

I was told by a friend from church that now that we live here we will never have to leave to visit family and friends because they will all come here to see us. Wouldn't you know they were right and we love it!
I have had a house full of visitors and Sam is beside himself. He's so funny, every time a visitor leaves, he gets mad and stomps his feet and says, "You can't go, you have to stay here."
My brother Andy and his wife Kirsten were here for a night on their way to see her family in the LA area.
My sister Ashley and her husband Jordan were next to visit us during their spring break.
They took advantage of their time and we did a whirlwind of activities. We visited Laguna Beach, took Sam to Disneyland for the first time with them and we were on a taping of The Price is Right. So we arrived at 5 a.m. I believe, and our airing was not until 4 p.m. We were just a little tired by the end of the show. No, we're just not crazy enough to be called down as the next contestant, I guess the requirement was 20 ft finger nails (the contestant that won the show case showdown.) Just a little disappointed. We even had these awesome t-shirts that Jordan had designed, how could they pass that up. Oh well, it was fun to see our tired, goofy faces on TV when it did air ( go to tv.com Price is Right 5/7/10.)
Making sand castles with Aunt Ashley, Sam's favorite part of going to the beach.

Sam's favorite ride, Buzz Lightyear.

All tired out after only a half day at Disneyland.

Finally, my brother Tom and his little boy Luke came for a get away.

Luke and Sam at Del Mar Beach.

Luke and Sam super heroes.

My brother Tom and I took the boys to Disneyland, Luke's first time. They loved it! We stayed until the park closed. It was amazing, the first ride for the day was Buzz Lightyear. Of course, they loved it and since we were there at such an amazingly non-slow day, we quickly hopped on the ride again.

Autopia!

Buzz Lightyear

My Little Red loving every minute of being at the happiest place on earth and all with his cousin Luke. Life doesn't get much better.

The Many Faces of Sam

2010-05-12T07:32:00.007-07:00

Sam has certainly hit that three year old imagination stage. Every time we turn around he is some sort of super hero or a character of some sort he has created in his little mind.
So Sam when you are older, this is for you to see what a creative and silly boy you were.

Easter Simple and Fun!

2010-05-04T16:50:00.003-07:00

Easter day was simple and fun!
Danno had to work the swing, so he was home in the morning to enjoy Sam's egg hunt and a good Easter breakfast. The rest of the day Sam and I watched conference.

You Snooze You Lose

2010-05-04T16:32:00.003-07:00

Okay, I realize that the second picture is a bad shot, but focus on all the eggs in the back ground. This was an Easter Egg Hunt in Laguna Hills, put on by a local church. A friend from church invited me and some other mommies to come to this fun filled event. Bounce house, Easter Bunny, Easter Egg Hunt, face painting and carnival food. Sam was very excited for the egg hunt and the Easter Bunny.
When it came time for the hunt to begin, it was just a little bit intimidating for my little guy to say the least. Not only did the little tikes his age run out there, but the parents too. Sam was not about to go out there and fend for himself. So he had one egg out of all that you see out there on the grass. All those eggs snatched up in seconds. My guy was SAD! Luckily his little friends, that were a little more aggressive than him decided to share their eggs.
Next part of the story, no Easter Bunny came. Wow, the day was just not going Sam's way. So I figured I would take him to the mall, the Easter Bunny had to be there. He was, but so was everyone else. So we waited for an hour and a half. When we were so close to the end of the line, Sam saw the Easter Bunny and began to FREAK OUT! I guess he envisioned a small fluffy bunny, ever so cute. Not this massive bunny. How could I push Sam into this about to be nightmare for him, so we left.
Luckily the rest of his Easter would be better.

Potato Heads and Potty Training

2010-05-04T16:18:00.003-07:00

Who would have ever known that all it would take was Potato Heads to potty train this little guy. I read up on so many ways to potty train your toddlers and I was so nervous to attempt it with Sam, because he is a pretty hard headed kid. He knows what he wants and tries to stick with his plan. So after all my organizing, I was ready to try the 3 Day Potty Training method. It was okay, but just not the best for my Sam.
I had a lot of friends tell me that their kids worked well with candy. Well Sam would do anything for CHOCOLATE, but I couldn't do that method for him or the next thing we would be doing is Weight Watchers. A brilliant idea came to mind as I was watching his obsession with his Potato Heads. Why not buy him a bunch of Potato Heads and give it to him in pieces as he earns them each time he does his duty.
Their you have it. A happy boy with his Potato Heads and a happy mommy with a potty trained toddler!

A Place to Call Home in Southern California

2010-03-23T16:44:00.004-07:00

Our little Southern California House.
A few friends and family have requested to see what house we decided on after 84 houses of hunting. So for that and journal keeping, here is where we call home and we LOVE it here! The house may be small, but for south Orange County it is well worth it.
The Master

Sam with a little trundle tucked under his bed, anxiously awaiting for his guests!

Sam/guest Bathroom

Office or Dan's escape room

Loft/Toy Room

Loft/Guest pull out bed

Front Room

Entry

Kitchen

Family Room

Back yard (last area that we have not worked on yet)

The House We Were Not Quite Ready to Call Home...Yet!

2010-03-23T16:40:00.000-07:00

After 84 houses later this is what we were ABOUT ready to call home. Our home was owned by an older couple that owned an antique shop with a style of their own. Whenever we were asked by ward members where we lived they said, "Oh the crazy lady house, or the house with the lady painted on the fence." Many other stories too, but now it was ours and it's time to make our own story for this house. We fell in love with the area and the bones of the house, it just needed a little TLC from us. So after much sweat and several weeks of NON STOP work, we are calling it OUR home.

Before (front)
The Master

Sam's Room

Sam/guest bathroom

Office (later many cuts and bruises of demolition for Dan)

Loft/Toy Room

Front Room

Kitchen

Family Room

Our First Visit to the Beach of 2010

2010-03-23T16:34:00.003-07:00

With nothing to do, why not head to the beach and let Sam dip his toes in the sand. Dan's brother had taken us to Laguna Beach last summer, but when we bought our new house we didn't realize how close we were to it. Twenty minutes away, around the corner. BEAUTIFUL! It was beautiful there and Sam LOVED every minute of it, well maybe not when he got knocked down by the wave.

Sam running from the wave that took him down!

A little nervous.

So here's my question. What is this picture really about, Red and I or someone else? Ha ha!

Thoroughly enjoying the sand!

37 and Ma & Pa Bean Visit

2010-03-23T16:18:00.003-07:00

Dan turned 37 and since my parents were in town for the day, we got Dan's family to come over and celebrate with everyone together. Why not embarrass him?!
Notice, some one's been sneaking the cake all ready!

Sam got in on the birthday action as well. My parents spoiled him with an amazing ship. He loves Playmobil. My sister-in-law introduced me to this cute brand and Sam has fallen in love with it, and I have too.

During my parents stay, my dad wanted to discover all that this beautiful area we live in has to offer. We discovered just around the corner is the San Juan Capistrano Mission.

Sam and my Dad tracing the California Mission Home symbols.

Three and Beyond!

2010-03-10T21:03:00.009-08:00

My little "Red" turned 3!
This is how the kitchen looked when he woke up and of course he couldn't resist to sit at the special birthday table instead of his little table.
The "3" year loot!

Sam's request was to go to Chuck E. Cheese for his birthday. Ugh! We went there for his 2 year old birthday, please not again. I thought and thought of where would be fun for him without throwing a party for him. Luckily "Rain Forest Cafe" is located in Costa Mesa, here in California! Great, just like Chuck E. Cheese, the motorized animals for excitement, but not the terrible pizza and chaos of kids in the arcade. Well, things didn't go according to my plan and Dan thought, "Hey, I'm off that day, why not take him to "Chuck E. Cheese" for lunch and "Rain Forest Cafe" for dinner." Oh, how exciting, but this was Sam's day, so the plan proceeded.

Our experience at "Chuck E. Cheese:" Sam terrified of mouse behind him, but did enjoy the games and pizza.
After winning over 400 points from his tickets, this was the prize!
That's a mini Toostie Roll.

Our experience at "Rain Forest Cafe:" Pleading from the Red to sit next to him and be as close to the wall as possible, in hopes he would not be the next dinner for the motorized animals. I lovingly took him on a tour of the restaurant to visit all the animals and I paid the price. My skin was tightly clenched during that.

The prize from the evening of "Rain Forest Cafe."

His request for this years birthday cake was "Cars!"

My lazy attempt of his request. But the good news is, it was everything he wanted, chocolate too!

The finale of the evening of Sam's version "Happy Birthday to You."

Pepper

2010-03-10T18:10:00.000-08:00

Sam got his first pet...a red Beta fish, one that is hard to kill and therefore no tears for awhile at least.
We'll see how long it lasts. He loves it and has named it Pepper.
Welcome to the family Pepper!

Valentines With My Sweethearts

2010-02-23T08:53:00.002-08:00

Sam was more than excited to make this Valentines Gingerbread House! Since we didn't have the time to make one for Christmas, I promised him we would use it for Valentines. He loved help putting the candies on.
Our dinner for three.
How do you get a 3 year old to eat his dinner all gone? You place a huge heart shaped brownie with candies on it right in front of him while he eats!

Sam's loot of love!

Our First Christmas in California

2010-02-22T19:06:00.001-08:00

This year for Christmas was spent with the Stromberg side. Dan's parents drove in from Utah to spend with Dan and his brother Jeff's family.
A tradition for their family is to have a Christmas Eve dinner together with their traditional staples, Shrimp Salad, Honey Baked Ham and yummy Chocolate Almond Balls and afterwards a little game of Philadelphia Rummy.

Sam helping me make the Chocolate Almond Balls. He LOVES to cook, always trying to help me even with his sandwiches. Little does he know a kitchen just his size is on its way!

The family all came to our house to celebrate.

Cousins: Kate, John and Caroline!

Brothers: Jeff and Dan

Jen and Jeff

Sam and Mommy (side note: roughly a month before this picture was taken, Sam came bouncing up our stairs and fell in just the right place and broke his collar bone. So in the middle of moving in we were in the E.R. with Sam. Hence the child leash around his shoulders.)

Grandpa and Grandma Stromberg

Sam's Christmas loot!

Thanksgiving 2009

2010-02-22T19:04:00.002-08:00

We had officially moved into our house in Orange County (pictures to come) and not quite settled, so Jeff and Jen invited us to join them with Jen's family as well for Thanksgiving.
This would be a first in a long time to have Dan with us for Thanksgiving Day.
Dan had to work in the morning, but he was able to come a little later to join us for food and football.

Cousin Kate entertaining her littlest of cousins with water paint. What an amazing cousin!

Our Visit to The Reagan Library

2010-02-22T18:25:00.003-08:00

There are many things to visit here in Southern California and we chose to visit the Reagan Library as one of the firsts, and we were very glad we did!
Dan and Sam in front of the library.
Sam and Me posing as some important political figure, ha ha!

Standing in front of Reagan's Air Force One.

The day Dan and I decided to visit the library, just happened to be the same day they were celebrating the 40TH anniversary of the fall of the Berlin Wall. After touring Air Force One, we saw that there was a gathering for a luncheon just below. As we were looking below at the crowd I said to Dan, "Do you think anybody important is down there?" Just as I finished my sentence I did capture a glimpse of someone that was pretty well known and frantically told Dan, "I need the camera!"

See if you can catch a glimpse of that someone who is important.

Nancy Reagan

First Halloween in Cali

2010-02-20T16:47:00.003-08:00

Sam's pick for this year's Hallloween costume was a Pirate and he loved saying, "I the pirate, Arrr."

For Sam's first time to go trick or treating door to door, Dan was finally around and NOT deployed and able to take his little boy. Sam's cousin John was nice enough to let little Sam tag a long with all of his buds to trick or treat. It was too cute, all of John's buds call Dan, "Uncle Dan."

Sam's form of transportation for trick or treating. Pretty nice to have a ride like this and get candy during it.

His cousin Kate greets him at the door with candy after our adventure out.

Sam loved these cookies that Aunt Jen and Kate made! "Don't gobble up too many gobblins Sam."

Sam's cousin Francis shows off his awesome Halloween costume to us.

Back at the hotel, Sam raids his first ever loot, working oh so hard to reach what lies inside the paper.

The Denver Broncos Rule

2010-02-20T16:45:00.001-08:00

When Dan found out that his beloved Denver Broncos would be coming to San Diego for Monday Nigh Football, he HAD to go. I had planned on going with Dan and his brother and sister-in-law, but Sam was just recovering from having his adenoids removed. Dan decided to give my ticket to his niece Kate! This is a bunch of Broncos fans that became their buds among all the Charger fans there.
A fun time was had by all, especially since the Broncos won or as Dan says, "They crushed them, it was beautiful!"
Dan and Kate!

Jeff and Jen!

Time Spent With Family in Fall

2010-02-20T16:18:00.002-08:00

Totally unplanned and within even hours of thinking "I am sick of this hotel" and realizing how much space Sam was in need of, Sam and I were on the road with Utah and sanity as our destination.
I called my sister Suzie to tell her of my plan and left it a secret from my parents to have a little fun. Upon arriving, I was talking to my mom on the phone and drove up to their house and rang the doorbell. I had Sam stand in front of the door. My dad answered and of course that made a lot of commotion in the back ground as I was still on the phone with my mom. She said something was going on at the front door and was unsure of it all. I walked in as I was talking to her and well, she was SURPRISED!!
Liam, Tristan and Sam loving the pumpkin playground.
During our break we went to a little pumpkin farm and Gardner Village. Fun for Sam and Me!

Suzie and Mom, enjoying our time together.

Sam and Liam, unsure of this place we have taken them to with all the scary witches.

Go... Dodgers and Angels!

2010-02-20T15:58:00.003-08:00

Dan was hoping since his first baseball game was a Dodgers game that he would make that Sam's as well. It turns out we had an opportunity to go to an Angel's game with Sam's cousins first, so we didn't want to pass that up. Sam sporting all of his Angel's attire we, as his parents, felt a need to spoil him with. I think he liked it.

The 2nd baseball game for Sam was the Dodgers, since we live in CA it was easy to do. He actually loved them both. Since the games he cannot stop talking about the Dodgers and the Angels. We just happened to get him a pair of blue shoes and red high top Converse which he has officially named his Dodger and Angel shoes.

We don't know which team will be his favorite, but at least we have a choice. What a fun place to live this is.

St George Excursion with Stromberg Side

2010-02-03T17:25:00.006-08:00

Dan's mom and dad decided to have the family get together and do a short trip to St. George this past summer.
We visited Zions National Park and did some short hikes.
Dan and his brother Jeff, poking fun at the sign!
Sam loves his cousin John and any attention he gives him.

We also had so much fun seeing "Annie" the play at the Tuacahn Amphitheatre in St. George.

Jeff & Jen looking fabulous!

It was SO HOT in St. George that we decided to find an indoor activity for Sam. We found a pet store and Sam loved petting the puppies!

Dan's dad took us all out to eat at one of his favorites Gun Barrel. Yummy steak!

Dad and Mom Stromberg

Stromberg cousins: Caroline, Kate, Sam and John.

Sam's 2 Year Pictures

2010-01-29T07:58:00.000-08:00

For Sam's 2 year pictures I had my friend Andrea Hanks take them. We met her in American Fork at a place called Star Mill. It was awesome because Sam was having so much fun exploring everything on the lot, that he had no idea his picture was being taken. She did an amazing job!

24th of July Utah Fun

2010-01-22T20:42:00.006-08:00

Three little boys not sure if they should enjoy this petting zoo at the This is the Place Monument, or if they should just keep their distance.

We made another visit to Logan with Grandma Carol to see Sam's great grandma. We visited with all of Grandma Carol's family and Sam was spoiled with Elmo Cupcakes by Aunt Cathy.

These three little tikes are fully confident that they are a great help to their Granpda Bean with the gardening.Enjoying the 24th of July Parade with Grandma Carol, in NO heat and NO crowd. It's the way to go!!
In this heat wave Ashley decided it would be fun for Suzie and I to bring our boys to a mini lake in Day Break where her sister-in-law lives. What little boy wouldn't mind playing in the sand?!

A little family fun to celebrate the 24th as the day comes to an end! Tom is showing the little ones firework snakes.

A little goodbye gift to Sam from his Aunt Ash, he is using it as a disguise from the camera.

Escaping to Utah

2010-01-21T16:32:00.007-08:00

After making our move to California and spending some time in the March Air Force Hotel, I decided it would be a nice change to get to Utah and have some kid quality time for Sam. Not many kids living in the hotel there to play with.
My little Sis. Ash had a break from work and flew out to help me make the drive to Utah with Sam. Of course we spent a little quality time at the Irvine Spectrum with Ashley before leaving to Utah! What mother doesn't love an amazing merry go round to distract her child during a shopping spree!

To keep up with the family tradition, one of the first things we needed to do to enjoy our family time was to head to the canyons for a bbq.

Dad & Mom
Little rascal cousins
Sam, Luke, Liam, Tristan

Enjoying the red punch a wee bit much!

...and the results, cherry stained lips!

Quality Time With Our California Family

2009-11-07T15:58:00.005-08:00

Dan's brother Jeff and his family live here in Southern California and while we have been here they have been amazing to us. Sam absolutely loves them. He may not always act all warm and fuzzy to them but he still tends to be a little shy. When we are not with them he asks about each one of them constantly. I think he adores them so much because they are so loving to him.
This is a marble roller coaster of John's that Jeff and Jenny setup just for Sam. He LOVED it!

This is Caroline and Sam at their ward 4th of July Kid Parade. Jen gave us decorations for Sam's wagon and Caroline pulled Sam in the parade. Sam loves his cute cousin!

After the parade we came back to Jeff's house and the guys had a water fight with the kids! I wonder who won?

Later that night at the RSM Lake, they had a fireworks display. We laid out our blankets and enjoyed!

Sam with his cousins, John and Caroline (Kate was off with a friend.)

The Bike

2009-11-07T15:48:00.003-08:00

Before we were about to become "House Poor," we thought we should invest some money into a good mountain bike for Dan. I knew this would be important so he could have some good quality male bonding time with his brother. His brother is huge into mountain biking and goes several times a week. Let's just say he has put some good use to it already and he is looking forward to more bonding time with his bike, once the move is over! And of course, once he got the bike, he decided he needed new shoes, shorts, gloves, helmet, etc... I thought I was bad with clothes.
One of the many trails.

Jeff (brother) Dan

Danno and his bike on the trail.

Yay, We're a Family Again!

2009-10-31T17:58:00.004-07:00

After a month and a half, Dan flew in to SLC Airport and met Sam, his mom and me. This meant that we were now going to be back as a family again and on our way to California to start a new adventure.
Just like most boys, Sam has a fascination with cars. Sam also loves his grandparent's cars. It almost became a bit annoying because day and night, night and day, Sam would ask to see their cars. It might have only been 2 seconds to pass by and Sam would ask to see them again, but to Sam it must feel like an eternity. Even now as we are away he talks about their cars.

More Visiting While in Utah

2009-10-29T09:54:00.005-07:00

This round of visiting Utah, since I had a little more time on my hands then others, I was able to visit with the family a lot as well as visiting with friends I had not been able to see for several years. During my days of working and creating memories at Party Land, I developed several friendships. A few of those friends were able to make it to a get together for some much needed catching up time. Ele and Jen are just as beautiful as ever and it was amazing to see where life has taken each of us. Two amazing mommies!
Sam is fortunate to have both of his grandmas in Utah. So when he comes for a visit, he has a lot of spoiling time provided by them! Grandma and Grandpa Stromberg love this kid and when we're at their house Sam gets his story time with Grandma every night. Special moments I want to capture, so he remembers how loved he is.

Something we always try to arrange is for Sam and I to get together for lunch with both grandmas. So this time we went to the Sandy Aquarium and then did lunch.

My brother Joel has a little girl Samantha that is a few weeks older than Sam and they also share a similar name. Something special for those two to share. We went for a BBQ at at the park with them while we were there. I think we had to bribe the two with cookies to get them out of the swings. Fun memories!

Finally, my parents discovered that I had not been to the Thanksgiving Park. So since the tulips were at peak, we ventured to the park for a stroll. Something I want to be remembered is how amazing my dad is with his grand kids. He is always right by their side discovering, exploring and playing with them. Every one of the 7 grandchildren LOVE their grandpa because of this genuine interest and love he shows them. I love that about my Dad!

My beautiful Mom and me with Sam!

I Love My Family

2009-10-25T17:25:00.004-07:00

I feel very lucky to have an amazing relationship with my extended family on both my Mom's and Dad's side. That is why I feel I should document it, so my Sam will realize how much it means to his Mom. It seems my family is always finding excuses to get together. So because of that something is always being celebrated. We have a great time when we're together and their is always lots of laughter and teasing. What I really love about my family is that we are always there for each other in times of joy or despair, we can count on our GREAT family. LOVE them!
Party time spent with the Johnson side.

An Easter in Utah

2009-10-25T17:04:00.004-07:00

During Sam and my stay in Utah, we enjoyed a beautiful Easter with the family. Of course it would have been better if Dan was with us, but he was busy in CA training for his new air frame.
Sam was spoiled by the Easter Bunny with a 4- wheeler Quad and a Football Easter Bunny. The 4-wheeler became a quick love, not only for him but his little cousins as well.

Sam's cousins Tristan and Liam were also nice enough to share their toy vacuum. It became a cherished item for Sam. We still don't understand what Sam's fascination is with vacuums, but he nestled right up to it and found some zzz time.

Moving Time!

2009-10-23T10:16:00.005-07:00

It's a good thing the Air Force has trained us to be vagabond gypsies, because it is time to move again. This time, however, it was of our own accord. Since Dan left active duty, and Continental furloughed him, we decided to take up the offer of a friend to join the California Air National Guard, destination March Air Reserve Base, Riverside California. We decided to do the move ourselves, and to let the Air Force reimburse us. We stood to make more money this way, but unfortunately that money was at the expense of sweat equity as we were soon to find out. We finished packing up the house, and loading the trailer around the first couple of days in April. Here Sam stands on what was once our lives, all boxed up and ready to go.
We moved with ABF, and with the help of our good friends the Hulses, Palmers, the missionaries and our brother in law Mr. Hix we actually made it happen. It was weird to see our entire life boxed up in a trailer, but we were glad that part of the journey was over.

Sam and I flew to Utah, while Jordan and Dan drove our two cars across the country, starting in New Jersey and ending in California. While in Utah Sam was able to play with cousins, and I was able to get some much needed rest.

Here Sam and Tristan show off their matching PJs. TROUBLEMAKERS!

Much needed play time with Grandpa in the sandbox.

I Cry When Mommy Sings Too!

2009-03-31T04:34:00.008-07:00

Absolutely hilarious. That is all I can say. Laura would crush me if she knew I was posting this, but I have to, it is my husbandly duty. The other day Sam wanted to get down the stairs. Normally he will come, but sometimes when he is tired or just being lazy he will ask for us to carry him down. So mommy said no to carrying him when he asked. But, she encouraged him, she would wait at the bottom of the stairs for him. Then she began singing one of her favorite songs as he crawled down the stairs. "I'll be there" by the Jackson 5. She loves the Jackson 5, and this song was more than appropriate. "I'll be there, I'll be there, just call my name, I'll be there... I'll be there, I'll be there, whenever you need me, I'll be there." As soon as she started singing he got this pouty look on his face, then he really started crying. So I ran to get the camera, and forced her to do it again. I don't think she thought I would have enough guts to post it. BTW, this may be my last post...

Video

Picture

I guess you could take this one of two ways; one-horrible noise to his ears or two-maybe this song brought back some very sad memory from long ago. Actually I think his mom has a great voice, especially when compared to my tone deaf singing attempts.

Possibly the Last of the C-17 for Us

2009-03-31T04:16:00.007-07:00

As part of the last minute details we have intended on doing before leaving New Jersey, we took Sam out to what has been daddy's airplane for the last 10 years. We took along a previous YW of mine that has shown interest in the Air Force and we all had a blast playing on the plane!

See ya in awhile Tull Family

2009-03-31T03:46:00.010-07:00

We have made some amazing friends during our travels in the Air Force, but the Tulls have been there since the beginning when Dan was in ROTC at BYU. We were fortunate enough to live by them for several years in Washington and then in New Jersey. After a move or two (or three) they wound up in Virginia. As we are now on our way to the other side of the nation we wanted to take the opportunity to see them before the big move, after all, who knows how long it may be before we hang out again?

We met up in Baltimore for dinner at the Rusty Scupper for some good seafood, which is funny since Dan and Mandy are the only seafood fans. Before dinner Dan and I took Sam to the Baltimore aquarium. I think Sam was most interested in the turtles and also having his freedom by running around the harbor while we waited for the Tulls to arrive.

It was such a nice night and a beautiful area by the harbor. And of course, the kids were great entertainment. All in all it was a great night, we are going to miss the Tulls, and we wish them good luck on their next move to Fiji and can't wait for an ROTC reunion with all our friends!

Last Moments of New York Fun!

2009-03-29T15:05:00.012-07:00

There have been just a few more items on our list of things we wanted to do before we leave this amazing area, so here we go! We wanted to take Sam to the most amazing toy store, Toys R' Us in Manhattan. He had quite the experience, seeing bigger than life structures and riding on the indoor ferris wheel.

After the toy store we headed over to Central Park Zoo, small but very fun!!

Sam could not get enough of the petting farm and feeding the sheep! More, More!

Last stop was for some of our favorites in New York; Lombardi's for pizza in Soho followed by Pinkberry for me and Rice to Riches for Dan. Both are yummy deserts! See you in awhile New York!

Happy St. Patrick's Day!

2009-03-17T06:25:00.003-07:00

Sam has no idea why he is eating green pancakes, but he likes them and was sure glad to receive the hat for whatever reason the occasion was. He loves hats!

Happy St. Patrick's Day everyone!

Danno's 36TH!

2009-03-17T05:52:00.005-07:00

Another boy of mine celebrated their birthday this month!

We celebrated Dan's birthday on the 16TH, pretty low key because of all the craziness in our life right now. I made him breakfast in the morning before he had to take off to work, then when he came home we went to dinner at "Five Guys." After dinner we came home opened presents and had birthday cake.

Since Sam just celebrated his birthday a week ago I suppose he thought that he was still receiving gifts, so he helped tear into his presents but as you can see he quickly lost interest once they were opened and not that exciting to him.

Finally Sam was rewarded for all of his hard work at opening Dan's gifts with this present from Aunt Ashley and Uncle Jordan. He was a little surprised and quit pleased. It actually was for him too, obviously!

Later this month we will do something a little more exciting. Dan and I will go see the Broadway show "Wicked" and eat dinner at his choice of restaurant in New York. We figured it would be a good thing to do before we move away from the big city!

Little Red's Second Birthday Part Three!

2009-03-09T10:41:00.013-07:00

Sunday March 8th was Sam's second birthday. After church we came home and enjoyed Sam's favorite things to eat for dinner-Spinach & Artichoke Dip, YUM! He loves to dip his food.

Cheesy Potatoes and ham. Anything cheesy is his favorite!

Sam opened gifts from his Grandma & Grandpa Bean and Uncle Andy & Aunt Kirsten online. He loved his book and "Band in a Box" from them, but what he loved most of all was exposing his belly to them and laughing. Thanks Andy for encouraging it!

Later that evening Sam talked to Grandma & Grandpa Stromberg on the phone as he opened gifts from them. This video is Sam doing a little dance with our gift to him.

Sam's birthday cake. He really loved the icing and even though there was still cake on his plate he kept asking for more, but he really just wanted the icing.

Day Two "When Elmo Grows Up"

2009-03-09T10:26:00.005-07:00

Saturday, the next part of his second birthday celebration was "When Elmo Grows Up" a Sesame Street Live show at the Wachovia Complex. Sam's response to the show was irreplaceable, he loved it! It was like a little rock concert for toddlers.

Sam enjoying his Elmo Rock Concert!

Just like his mommy, he loves popcorn!

Sam Celebrates 2 the Yo Gabba Gabba Way!

2009-03-09T08:50:00.008-07:00

Our Little Red turned 2 this weekend. We started the 3 day celebration with a friend party on Friday. We invited all of his little friends or you could say our friends (nothing wrong with the parents enjoying the festivities too) to Chuck E. Cheese for a Yo Gabba Gabba themed party.

Sam and his friends Lexy (or otherwise known as Lala) sporting their Yo Gabba Gabba stardom!

Danno's Final Trip (Hopefully)

2009-03-05T04:52:00.010-08:00

Danno left on a great trip from the 13th to the 28th of last month. The crazy part is, this might be his final trip in the C-17! We have one month left in the reserves here before he transfers to the California Air National Guard to fly UAVs. It was a tough decision for him, but after a ton of thought and prayer, we feel this is the right move for our family. I know he is getting tired of being gone, especially now that Sam is old enough to comprehend his daddy is missing.

This trip was a special one, in that he carried a ton of generals and admirals around the world as part of a class they have to attend. Since his passengers were busy with classes and meetings, he and his crew were able to play! Their first stop was Tel Aviv.

The port of Joppa, where Jonah set sail from.
Jerusalem as seen from the Mount of Olives. The Golden Gate of the old city, which was sealed up long ago. Dan outside the Garden Tomb. What an incredible experience he had! The wailing wall. Dan said a prayer for us here. It can't hurt, right?!Their next stop was Masada, an old fortress built by Herod. Then they got to float on the dead sea.Apparently the mud is very good for you, so everyone plasters it on. Dan and his crew, the goofballs they are, didn't hold back.The next stop was Turkey. They visited Ankara and Istanbul. Outside of the Blue Mosque in Istanbul.The Haggia Sophia, a church that was turned into a mosque, and is now a museum.Cisterns in the old city, built in the 200's.Danno at the Grand Bazaar. After touring Turkey, they spent time in Serbia, Sicily, and Rome. Danno loved Rome, and I have to admit I am jealous!The Coliseum.The Roman Forum from Palatine Hill.

The Pantheon.
On the way to the Sistine Chapel, part of the Vatican Museum.Danno's crew in part of the Vatican Museum. So much stuff!

The guys in front of St. Peter's Basilica. Danno even got to see the Pope leaving the Vatican. He happened to be there on Ash Wednesday, and was giving a mass that day.

The last stop was Brussels, which meant more chocolate for us, and waffles for Danno. What a great experience for him. I am glad he got to have a fun one for his last mission, and so glad he may never have to go back to Iraq or Afghanistan (knocking on wood right now)!

Valentines 09 and the Manhattan Temple

2009-03-05T04:33:00.004-08:00

This year we celebrated Valentines on the 12th as Dan left on a trip the 13th. Sam had a great time opening his card and gifts. That night Dan was getting ready for his trip when Sam spied daddy's headset. For some reason he loves playing with it.

While Dan was gone, I was able to get to the Manhattan temple! Our district is the DC temple, so we normally have to go down there when we get the chance. I had wanted to see the Manhattan temple for a very long time and was finally able to with the help of some great friends.

Virginia part 2

2009-03-05T04:08:00.006-08:00

After DC we spent 3 days in Virginia. We have been there several times before, but there were a couple spots we wanted to hit before we leave the east coast. Our first stop was Jamestown, the first English settlement in the Americas! Here me and Sam are in the church on the old village site.

Next stop was Yorktown, another of Dan's battlefield tours. Here he bought a fun Junior Ranger hat for Sam, which Sam made him try on of course. Here Dan models it in front of the monument of the battle. After some shopping and food we decided to call our trip complete, with a final stop at the Norfolk Naval Base, the world's largest Naval Base. Sam got to see aircraft carriers, submarines, and destroyers along with a ton of other ships we didn't know what to call!The next day we set out for home, with a couple of Dan's detours along the way. The first stop was Appomattox Courthouse, where the Civil War ended (for the most part anyway). Here Sam explores the area around the building where Grant accepted Lee's surrender. Sam loved running around after being in the car so much!

Me and Sam in the room where the surrender took place.

Our final stop was Monticello, the home of Thomas Jefferson. It was awesome to see one of our founding father's estates. Although not as grand at Mount Vernon, it was still a great experience!

Our Mini Trip to Virginia

2009-03-05T03:51:00.005-08:00

Every 5 years Dan is required to have altitude chamber training. This time it was held at Langley, Air Force Base in Virginia. Dan thought why not bring Sam and I along to make a fun trip out of it.
Me and Sam in front of the capital. For 5 years we have wanted to tour this, and finally we got out and did it. Here Sam was approached by a Capital Policeman and given a Junior Officer police badge for his coat. He loved it!
Dan and Sam in the new Visitor's Center in front of the statue of freedom.

Sam couldn't last the entire tour. As soon as we got to the rotunda he was knocked out. Our guide even laughed about it, saying "oh great, I am putting people to sleep."

The Air Force Memorial in Arlington, next to the National Cemetery. Dan wanted to go to this for obvious reasons.

Local Airplane Museum Exploration

2009-03-05T03:39:00.006-08:00

So with the cold days we have been having, we thought it would be a perfect opportunity to be able to do something indoors and still get out and see something. So we went to the local airplane museum here in Lumberton. Dan and Sam loved it!"Future Pilot" Sam!
Sam was in total awe of the "Wee," his name for an airplane. We think it is because of the sound we make when playing with them.

Ready for take off!

We wonder if something tastes really good (or bad) and he is not sharing?

Our Trip to the Please Touch Museum

2009-02-09T16:36:00.007-08:00

For most of January it was extremely cold, it had even dipped into the 20's for a bit. So that left us to play indoors, which got old very quickly. After a while of this we got stir crazy and decided to venture out and find something indoors to do. So we went to The Please Touch Museum in Philly (half of the city did the same thing too).
This place was amazing. They had just moved in to this awesome building (Memorial Hall, an art gallery built in the late 1800s). The sculpture Dan and Sam are standing in front of is a torch made with junk!

The picture explains it all. Sam couldn't get enough of it, so we decided to buy a Sam sized guitar in the gift store. He loves it.

Sam loves cars, so he was in heaven driving this little car.

Sam and me joining in on the Mad Hatters Tea Party!

A Special Gift

2009-01-28T13:18:00.004-08:00

Two years ago we were given a special gift from some special friends. It was a figurine of a women caroling which was amazingly enough made in Pennsylvania. Dan and I thought it would be fun to take a trip to where these are made and sold, so we could add to the collection before we move away from the East coast. The store is Byer's Choice, and I was amazed at how cute and quaint it was. When you walk in you really take a step back in time. I can't imagine as a kid how fascinating it is to see these mock up stores and all the figurines placed just so in their little villages. Sam kept reaching his hand out just wanting to grab one of them to play away.

The skinny:

The late 1960's Joyce Byers, an amateur artist with a degree in fashion design, was disappointed in what she was seeing in the stores: aluminum tinsel trees with garish blue lights. She was looking for holiday decorations with warmth that showed respect for timeless traditions and her own memories of Christmas.

"A scrap of fabric, part of my mother's old fur coat, some hair from the kids, a coat hanger, some plaster and paint. The first ones were made with simple things around the house." She dressed them in plaids and made them cheerfully singing because that reminded her of Christmas." She adorned them on her table and she received compliments from relatives. She then gave them as Christmas gifts. Then a neighbor suggested to sell them and her new business flourished from there.

With Sam's fascination with hats, we had to step into one of the shops and sneak a picture of our family wearing some fun hats. And of course, we like to just be silly.

This is our collection so far. The women was the gift from our friend's the Nortons. We chose the daddy holding nutcrackers because Dan always brings home nutcrackers from his trips to Germany. The boy holding toys represents Sam, and the Saint Lucia we bought as an extra because they have always been special to me. Both Dan and I have Swedish ancestors, and I was born on December 13th, which is known as Saint Lucia day in Sweden. I am pretty much a big deal over there (ha ha).

Sam's First Friend Birthday

2009-01-28T13:04:00.006-08:00

This was Sam's first birthday party to attend, so I thought it would be worthy to document.

Kerith is our neighbor who Sam plays with outside when the weather is inviting, and his mom is also my walking partner. Kerith just turned 3 and invited Sam and two other neighborhood friends to his party. Across from Sam is Bryce and next to Sam is our neighbor Sam.

Kerith the Birthday Boy!

Bryce and Sam

Sam Loves Babies?

2009-01-20T14:37:00.003-08:00

We pulled out a Toy Story video one day thinking Sam may like it. There was also a short story about a baby and a tin soldier. We had no idea, but Sam loved it! Every time he saw the baby do something he would laugh. Luckily I caught it on my camera phone.

The Results of My Addiction to Facebook

2009-01-15T08:33:00.010-08:00

So, I guess while my time is spent being reacquainted with friends on Facebook, Sam's is catching up on all his reading material. This happened not once but twice!!

Stromberg Christmas 2008

2008-12-31T14:40:00.007-08:00

This year was really special for our family because we had Dan home for Christmas (with 1 day to spare) and it was Dan's first Christmas to be with his little boy!

We started our holiday with our friends the Norton's, who invited us to their house for Christmas Eve. After our delicious meal we decorated sugar cookies. Yum!

Last year, Sam and I were released from the hospital on Christmas day (Sam had RSV). So this was also my first time at home on Christmas with Sam. You could say he may have been spoiled a little, but we enjoyed every minute of it!

This super cool Geo Trax was from Uncle Joel and his family. This was the first thing Sam saw when he came down on Christmas morning. Anything with airplanes delights Sam!

You may wonder why we gave a boy a vacuum. This was our way of keeping the real one in the closet. For some reason he has a fascination with the vacuum and was always asking us to pull it out of the closet. Now everyone is happy.

So this was just a couple of Sam's gifts. But as I said before, it was by far the best Christmas for the Strombergs. We were all healthy and together as a family!

Go Gos

2008-12-19T12:03:00.004-08:00

My son has had this love for his go go's lately, that would be the two "action figures" that are on the side of Pablo. The story is, while Dan and Uncle Joel were watching BYU and the Utes play each other in November they would call out "go,go, go,go,go." Sam has since thought that this is what you call a football player. Now anything wearing a helmet, like the pilot and Darth Vader are football players. He seems to think they need to be with him at all times. He takes very good care of them too. I sometimes find these action figures laying on his diaper changing mat as he is helping to change them. What a good daddy he'll be.

Gingerbread Houses

2008-12-17T12:22:00.005-08:00

Our sweet friends, the Hulses invited us over to build gingerbread houses with them. This was so much fun to see Sam and his friend Lexy squeal with delight to put candy on their house all by their selves, although not all the candy made it on the house.

It was also a great activity to have Dan participate in since he has not spent a Christmas with Sam and we are a little worried it may happen again. At least now he feels that he has done a few Christmas activities with Sam to feel the spirit of the season.I promise Dan was there using his designing abilities to decorate our beautiful house, however he would not let me take a picture of him, so you get me. I think he was feeling a little bit of the jet lag look.

The Latest Since Utah

2008-12-15T11:33:00.004-08:00

Since we have been back from Utah we have been busy putting out the Christmas decorations, which Sam enjoyed. It is his first Christmas at our house since his last Christmas was spent in the hospital in Utah.

Dan has been on several missions, Korea, Waco Texas and now Germany and maybe hitting down range (Middle East.) I have been in a whirlwind of food chaos making Christmas Goodies for friends; peppermint brownies, almond balls and sugar cookies and also a Thanksgiving dinner for Dan since he was gone for that holiday.

A little of time, I would have to admit has been spent on Face Book since my brother and Dan persuaded me to join it. It is amazing how quickly it can draw you in as you become reacquainted with childhood friends, high school or college friends and everyone else you have met along the way!

Now we approach the holidays and hope for Dan to be home to enjoy some down time. Here are some pictures of Sam enjoying our chaos since we've been home.

Little A's Wedding in Utah

2008-12-07T16:39:00.037-08:00

In November Dan, Sam and I flew to Utah for two weddings. Dan's Sister Susan was married and also my little Sister Ashley. Since my family did most of the preparation for Ashley's wedding I thought it would be good to journal all the work our efforts produced.

Ashley and Jordan's wedding had a country chic feel since Ashley has always had a love for it and Jordan was raised in an area of Illinois that was rural. Ashley asked me to help her come up with the decorations and for my mom and I to plan the food for the reception.

My mom, with the help of all her little chicks made all the food for the reception. Breads, spreads, ham & cheese rolls, veggie tray, mini cheese cakes, homemade caramel and fudge and a cider mixture. YUM!

Ashley's good friend designed the beautiful center pieces and all the flowers.
Since my talented Sister in law designs and sews clothes, Ashley asked her to sew all the little boy's ties. Cute! My other sister in law Kirsten and I found a seamstress on the Internet that was able to make matching flower girl dresses.

Ashley and Jordan had originally decided to be married and have their reception on Saturday the 22nd of November, but because of the BYU & U of U Football game they changed the reception to Friday night. This way they were still able to have good attendance while no one missed the game.

They were married in the Jordan River Temple. After the ceremony we were waiting for them to come out and Sam became slightly interested in the fountain. Dan helped him without allowing him to get too acquainted.
My brothers Tom and Andy being great artists/photographers took all of these pictures and shared them with us. Thanks you guys for capturing all of these fun memories.

Halloween '08

2008-11-01T14:43:00.009-07:00

Halloween this year was amazing! Actually, since I spent last Halloween in Baghdad (see below), any Halloween at home was bound to be much better.
This year we were able to have some fun as a family for a change. The festivities started with a pumpkin carving extravaganza. Laura decided to try a "Jack Skellington" pumpkin from the Nightmare Before Christmas, while I went with a couple of different themes for me and Sam. We had a great time carving, and even Sam sat in his highchair and watched us the whole time (at least while we kept him fed with snacks anyway).

Laura's came out really well, as you can see. Sam's tiny one was pretty cool also, but I screwed the eyes up and they ended up falling off. Oh well. Mine was supposed to be a pumpkin getting smashed in on the right side. I think it worked out moderately well, although I didn't end up putting a bat on it like I had planned since I thought it would either get stolen or kids would be too grossed out by it.
Sam got to go trick or treating a couple of nights before Halloween at our ward trunk or treat. Unfortunately I was flying so I missed it again. But I was able to see him dressed up after the party. He went as a tiger which looked great. He hated wearing the hood, but every now and again he would let us put it on for a few minutes.

Sam and his friend Lexy at the trunk or treat.

Sam's First Pumpkin

2008-10-23T04:27:00.004-07:00

We went Pumpkin Picking at Johnson Farm with the Hulse Family last Saturday. Sam and Lexy loved the playground, petting farm and the ride over to the pumpkin patch.

Sam was not too sure about the actual pumpkin picking. He became very nervous as we had to step around all these huge orange balls growing from these crazy vines under his feet.Once we had the pumpkin off the vine, Sam was excited that he had a new orange ball. We'll see how he reacts once we cut into his new favorite ball.