Big D in AZ

Los Angeles Lakers are champs!

2009-06-20T19:13:00.001-07:00

The Lakers did it! 15 time NBA champs! This is for all the Laker-Haters out there, you know who you are! Enjoy.

Paintball and BBQ...

2009-05-24T21:10:00.001-07:00

For my "Uncle Jon's" 60th birthday, he wanted to go paintballing, so we all got together for combat. We all met up around 7:30am, and got our equipment and instructions, split up into teams, and headed out for 2 hours of fun. We had so much fun, and no one got seriously hurt, unless you ask to my cousin Stacey. I kinda snuck up on her and shot her in the head from about 2 feet away. Oops! Here are some pics from the "war". After the paintball fun, we all headed home to clean up, then head over to my Aunt's house for the BBQ/Birthday party. You should have seen some of the bruises I had for being shot many, many times. The one on my butt hurt, but the one on my thigh was huge!! Anyways, we got there and let the kids swim and got some food when this guy that know one knows walks in and starts asking people for stuff. He looked like a bum, so my cousin went to get Jon, and come to find out he was a singing telegram. It was hilarious! Everyone was laughing, cause only a few people knew, and he was asked to leave , then he came back to do his skit. It was a great day of fun. Happy Birthday Uncle Jon!!!

happy birthday michelle

2009-05-14T22:06:00.001-07:00

Happy Birthday, you turkey! I can't believe you are 17 already! Wow, your old! HA HA! Love you, and straighten up, you turd.

Happy Mothers Day...

2009-05-10T16:51:00.000-07:00

Happy Mother's Day too all the mother's in my life. Thanks for all that you do and will do. A special wish goes out to my mom, I love you and thanks for being who you are. And to Jess, for being such a good mom to our kids, I couldn't do it without you. I love all of you! Enjoy YOUR day!

golfing with the missionaries...

2009-05-06T10:06:00.000-07:00

On Monday, I took the missionaries out to play 9 holes of golf at Crooked Tree golf course. It was their P-Day, so after work, I picked them up, and we headed to the course. With my new calling, I am the Ward Mission Leader now, I get to spend alot of time working with them, so I told them I would treat them to some golf. It was only Elder Parker's second time playing, and Elder Williams was pretty good, and myself, well I only play a few times a year, so you probaly figured out we were all over the golf course, or in the desert to be exact. We had a blast! These guys are hilarious! Here are a few pics of our adventure.

baseball game with the boys...

2009-04-29T19:50:00.001-07:00

This Wednesday, I took the boys to see the UA baseball game against ASU. Last month I took Rynn to Phoenix to see the Dodgers and Diamondbacks play, so I knew he would like the game, but wasn't sure about Braydenn. On the way there, Rynn pasased out, but Braydenn was talking the whole way. When we got there, we were walking to the stadium, and Wilbur the Wildcat came up to us and gave the boys high fives. Rynn went right up to him, but Bray was a little scared. When got in and got our seats, the boys were yelling that they saw Wilbur, and he came up to our seats for some pictures. The whole game everytime the boys saw him they screamed! The game wasn't very good, the UA got killed, 20-3, but we had a good time none the less. Rynn kept bugging me the whole game to get him a soda, I brought in plenty of snacks and water, so I told him we would stop at 7-11 after the game for Slurpee's. I got about a block away, and turned to ask what kind did they want, and they both were passed out in the back. So I had to take them to Sonic the next day for drinks, cause I promised.

lunch with the boys and dinner with the missionaires...

2009-04-22T19:22:00.001-07:00

On Wednesday's, I am trying to take the boys out to do stuff so we don't feel like we are stuck in the house all the time on my day off, doing chores. So anyways, there is a new pizza place on our side of town, kinda like Chuckee Cheese, called Monkey Buziness. I call the boys monkies all the time, so they would fit in. I thought we would be having pizza, but they had all kinds of different foods, so the boys got mac and cheese and I got a burger. After we ate, we played some games, and the boys won some tickets,so they got a couple of dinosaurs. Rynn played a game, kinda like the crane game, and he got three dino's. They had a great time, and now they want to go to the Monkey place all the time now. After we got home, the boys took a nap, and then the missionaries called to remind us that we were feeding them, and well we thought it was for next week, so it turned into pizza night. Good thing we didn't have pizza for lunch! These missionaries(Elder Parker and Elder Williams) are awesome, so we had a great time at dinner. Jess had a Ladies night out, so pizza worked for everyone. Here are some pics.

my supervisors hard at work....

2009-04-21T19:05:00.001-07:00

When I got back to the depot today, this is what I saw my "wonderful" supervisors doing. Mike was cleaning the bathroom, and Barry was looking over someone's paperwork for the day. This is the most work that I have seen them do in awhile. I caught them in action, so this is not staged! Good job Mike, now put some staples in the stapler and go home!! :)

my sister's birthday..

2009-04-19T20:48:00.001-07:00

On this day 35 years ago, my "lovely" sister was born. That's my attempt at being nice, and I even remembered her birthday! 2 points for me! So wherever you may be Holly, HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!

Another cartoon....

2009-03-11T10:59:00.000-07:00

I saw these in Sunday's paper and thought this is our life in a nutshell. How many times have we had this scenario played out! LOL!!

Happy Birthday Blanc...

2009-03-03T07:58:00.001-08:00

Happy Birthday(Mar. 2nd) to one of our favorite missionairies of all time! Even though he likes the Sacramento Kings. Hope your doing well buddy. Drop us a line sometime. PS...Who drew that goatee on my face! LOL. Picture is a FEW years old and many gray hairs have popped up since then.

Desert Museum...

2009-03-03T07:57:00.000-08:00

Yesterday we took the boys to the Desert Museum with Gramma. We got there at 10am and it was already hot. Tucson tied a record for this date with 91 degree heat! Anyways, Rynn wanted to see snakes, and the first thing we saw when we got there was the snake display. Rynn got to touch the snake and he was so excited. Then we were off to explore the rest of the place. It was a good thing Jess brought the wagon or it really would have been a long day. We saw a lot of things, we were there for 4 hours, and the boys had a great time. Not soon after we took off, I got sick in the car, I think I was dehydrated. We had plenty of water, and I drank it, but the combination of playing basketball for 2 hours and then walking around in the sun all afternoon took its toll on me. Here are some pics from the day.

A Day at the Renaissance Fair..

2009-02-28T19:49:00.001-08:00

On Wednesday evening, Jess went to Phoenix to get her mom from the airport, the kids had no idea she was coming, and one of the things she wanted to do when she was here was to go to the Renaissance Fair. So on Saturday, we loaded up the van, and headed out. I had to work, so we left around 10:30am, and got there about noon. Rynn really wanted to see the Pirates and Braydenn just wanted to see everything, he was running around everywhere. At first we were looking for the Pirate place so the kids could dig for booty, but we didn't find it in time, so we just went from place to place to see the attractions. We saw a few shows, and the boys got to ride on a merry go round. Katelynn got brave and got on the bungie jump. Later, the girls rode an elephant and Rynn and Gramma rode a camel. The weather was kinda of hot, so we kept stopping for some shade, but we all had a great time and the kids had a blast!

Happy Birthday Ryan...

2009-02-25T19:55:00.000-08:00

Today is one of my bestest buddies 34th birthday! Happy Birthday Ryan!

Stake BBQ

2009-02-22T19:58:00.001-08:00

On Saturday, we headed out to our Stake BBQ. This is the first one we have gone too, for some reason or another we have missed them or just didn't go. This year we made it a priority to go, so we headed out to have some good food and hang out with others from our Stake. When we got there, we found some friends from our Ward and sat down with them. We all got our food and sat down with them and just talked and hung out. The kids all went and played with their friends and us adults hung out and talked. Later, I played catch with some young men for a while then we headed home. It was a good day and the weather was good too.

Strings on Fire concert...

2009-02-19T10:33:00.000-08:00

On Wednesday, we went to McKenna's orchestra concert, and I was thinking this was going to be another "screech fest", but I was way wrong! I had heard a little about Mark Wood, and I thought he was there to just teach them different techniques and stuff, but man he made this concert fun. He had the kids play music from Jimi Hendrix to the Beatles, with Metallica and Led Zepplin in there too. The kids really got into it, and it was more like a rock concert than an orchestra one. After the concert, McKenna and I stayed to get his autograph and meet him. What a great time, this is what kids need to get them interested in music.

Happy Birthday Katelynn...

2009-02-16T08:08:00.001-08:00

I can't believe my little girl is 9 years old already! All though she didn't get to have a "real party" this year, because we had asked her to do some things around the house and to help keep her room clean, and she did not, a lesson that I think she will one day learn, we still went out to dinner with her. She picked to go to Texas Roadhouse for her birthday dinner. We all ate and after dinner she got to get on the saddle and everyone sang Happy Birthday to her. Happy Birthday Sweetie!

Happy Valentine's Day....

2009-02-14T15:55:00.000-08:00

On Saturday morning, I went to work as usual, but got done early so I could go to the UCLA/UA basketball game with my buddy/valentine Ryan. The game started at 11am, so I had to hussle to get my route done, then make it to the game. It was a great game , the Cats beat up the Bruins, and Ryan was sad. We had great seats, like 15 rows from the floor. After the game, I came home and gave Jess her Valentine gifts, and she made a great steak dinner with all the fixin's for us. When you have four kids and have been married for 13+ years, the romantic Valentine's don't happen like they did when you were dating or first married. It was still a good day to spend with friends and family.

Daddy/Daughter Dance...

2009-02-06T20:00:00.001-08:00

Today was the annual Father's/daughter dance at Quail Run Elementary School. This year, Kate had me all to herself. It was a Luau theme, so we dressed up in our Hawaiian shirts and dress with plastic lai's and headed off to boogie down. Well, at least Kate did. I only dance to the slow songs, cause dancing isn't my thing. We got our picture taken and then danced a little, again mostly Kate as I talked with the other Dad's who can't dance, then we headed over to the Dairy Queen for some Blizzards. Its such fun to go to these things, even though I don't/can't dance, but just to see the kids have a good time, it's well worth it.

I did not teach this to them...

2009-02-06T19:59:00.001-08:00

I don't care what anyone says, I did not teach them to do this! I did teach the boys to pee in the shower, but not outside, in front of the neighborhood. Rynn thinks he doesn't have to use the toilet all the time, so he will pee outside, in the shower or bathtub, front yard, or whereever besides where he is supposed to. Now Braydenn thinks he can too! Monkey see, Monkey do, I guess. I guess I am kinda proud, but not all time guys!!!

Happy Birthday Braydenn....

2009-01-29T12:04:00.000-08:00

On this day, two long years ago, Lil' buddy Braydenn was born. It sure doesn't seem like 2 years, but then again in some ways it does. I can't believe how much he has grown. We didn't do anything real special for him on his birthday, the day was kinda of busy and it was on a Thursday. I stopped by Costco for a couple of pizzas and then my Aunt Debbie came over for some cake and ice cream. We opened his gifts, and played for awhile, then off to bed in his new pj's. Here are a few pics of the party. Also, for some reason, we did not get audio of us singing Happy Birthday on the video. Oh well,use your imagination!

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!

2008-12-31T23:23:00.001-08:00

Happy New Year everyone! We as family didn't go out this year, we stayed home and played board games, then about 15 minutes till midnight, we broke out the hard stuff(sparkling apple cider), and poured our toasts then watched the ball drop. McKenna made it this year, she usually passes out before midnight, and Katelynn had no problems, she would stay up all night if we let her, so other than the boys who dropped out about 9-9:30pm, we got to ring in the new year as a family. Hope this one is better than last year for all our family and friends!

Happy Birthday Jess...

2008-12-30T17:06:00.001-08:00

On this day, my wonderful wife Jessica was born! I took her to lunch and when we got home, the kids had made a huge birthday sign, and decorated the ceiling with streamers. Happy Birthday Jess, I love you!

Family fun day in the snow...

2008-12-30T17:05:00.001-08:00

Jessica and I are on vacation this week, and we got snow here on Christmas, well on Mount Lemmon, so on Monday we decided to take the kids up to play in the snow! We had a blast throwing snowballs, and sliding down the mountain on a boogie board. Rynn ate about 2 feet of snow, and Braydenn just wanted to slide, but couldn't stay on the board. Rynn and I made yellow snow, I'm so proud! This time, the boys didn't get car sick coming down, so it was a great day! Here are some pics of the fun.

Merry Christmas!!!!

2008-12-25T18:43:00.001-08:00

Merry Christmas everyone! I can't believe this, but the kids didn't get up until 8:30am! And we didn't even stay out late last night at Jess's Grandma's house. We all got up, and Jess made breakfast. My Mom was supposed to be here at 9am, but was late, so we ate without them. They showed up around 930am and the kids just started opening their gifts. Mom and Jim and Jesse ate while Michelle and the rest of they kids tore into the presents. we cleaned up and visited for awhile, then my Mom left and we took the boys out to ride they're new motorbikes. Rynn didn't do well with his, but Braydenn took off on his. The rest of the day, Jess put together toys, and the girls played with their IPOD things and I rested, cause I'm old! It was a very nice Christmas, hope all of yours went well too!

Family get together...

2008-12-20T21:45:00.001-08:00

On Saturday, we all headed over to my Uncle Randy's house to have a family get together before Christmas dinner. We were supposed to be also having a wedding reception for my cousin Laura, but they postponed the wedding, so it was just a family Christmas dinner. We all ate around 3:30pm and then watched the Bowl game between the Cats and BYU. It was a good time, and the food was good(thanks Aunt Lee), and the UA won the game! It was good to see everyone, even though we all live here, we don't get together as much as we should, like once a year. Hopefully we will get together more often, because we are family and thats what we should be doing!

Happy Birthday Jesse...

2008-12-19T16:58:00.001-08:00

On this day, 34 years ago(holy crap), my little bro was born. Happy Birthday Jesse, I lovva you! and yes, I missa you, too!! Also, probaly my longest and one of my bestest friends and her twin was born. Happy Birthday Laura and Lisa!! Miss you guys!

A long time ago....

2008-12-18T13:15:00.000-08:00

and many many years passed, my Dad was born! Happy Birthday old Man. Love you! Send out a more recent picture of you, this is all I got! Also, on Nov. 16th, a Happy Birthday to Dan and Laura's boy, Joshua! Love ya bud, but you need to cut that hair!!!

Happy Birthday Elle...

2008-12-09T21:33:00.000-08:00

On this day, 13 years ago, my favorite cousin of Jessica's was born! Happy Birthday Elle Belle!! Love you and hope you had a good day.

U of A vs. ASwho...

2008-12-08T17:38:00.000-08:00

On any other day in which these two teams played, I would have been fired up to get to the tailgate and get fired up for the game. But this day was a mess from the get go. On Friday night, we ate out at this chicken place, El Pollo Loco, which we love. McKenna was at her friend Sarah's house, so she didn't eat with us. We all got our share, and cleaned up and headed for bed. I got up aroung 1:30am for work, and I heard someone down stairs. Just as I turned on the light to see who it was, Katelynn came up the stairs and told me she just puked in the sink. A few minutes later, Braydenn woke up, and he had gotton sick in his bed. I headed off to work, not feeling so bad, but an hour later, Jess called and told me she had puked too! I headed out on my route, and i wasn't feeling to bad, and I even was talking to some friends about the game ahead, and that the family wouldn't be able to go to a birthday party cause they were sick, but I would make it, and then head to the tailgate. I finished work later than I usually do, and as soon as I got home, I got sick. I did not make the party and I was real late to the tailgate. If I had not had all the tickets for everyone, i might not have gone at all, that is how bad I felt. So we all headed over to the game, and I was feeling like crap, but as the game started I was feeling better. But about 1hr in I headed to the bathroom. Nothing happened, but I was not feeling great. Everytime the U of A did something good, we all would be celebrating and then I had to sit down, cause I thought I was going to hurl! The game was great, the Cats won 31-10, and everyone rushed the field, but me who just watched. After the game, they found out they got invited to the Las Vegas Bowl to play BYU. The season ended on a good note, 7-5 and a bowl game for the first time in ten years. But it will be remebered by me as a miserable day of sickness. I was so sick the next day, I couldn't even make it to church, and I spent the whole day in bed. No more El Pollo Loco for a very long time!!

Happy Thanksgiving...

2008-11-27T18:50:00.000-08:00

Today, we just hung out around the house, watched some football, and ate all the good food Jess made for us. We started the day kinda of late, we all slept in. Then we got up and Jess started prepping the food and cooking the turkey while the kids played and I watched football. We ate around 2pm, just as the Cowboy game was starting(and they won which made my food digest better!). Around 5pm or so, my Dad called from Missouri, and we talked for a good two hours. I hadn't talked to him for what seems like forever. It was good to hear from him, and My Aunt Nanci, but it was real good to hear from my Granny Hartman. I sure miss them all, and I hope everyone had a wonderful Thanksgiving, I know we did.

Happy 13th Anniversary....

2008-11-25T13:47:00.000-08:00

Today, its Jess and mine's 13th wedding anniversary! Whoo Hoo, another year and she didn't go crazy with all the goofy things I do! Thanks for all you do, and for putting up with me all these years. To many more, love you Jess!

U of A vs. Oregon State...

2008-11-22T21:17:00.000-08:00

On Saturday, the Cats took on Oregon State, and lost the game in the last minute. They were doing well until about four minutes left, then it all fell apart. It seems just when this team seems to turn it around, they do this. Another disappointing year, but they still have ASWho left, so hopefully they will finish the season with a win. (ps. if you look real close at the scoreboard picture, and its blurry, it says "Daniel Hartman and Friends" on it)

Happy Birthday Dan...

2008-11-19T11:48:00.000-08:00

On November 14th, one of my longest and bestest friends turned old! Well as old as me! Happy Birthday Dan, sorry I posted this late, but you are used to me doing things late anyways! Love ya Man!!

Luau for JoJo...

2008-11-08T20:41:00.001-08:00

On Saturday, The Kai family from our ward had a combination Luau/birthday party and celebration for their kids, LuLu, Dougie and JoJo. It was JoJo's 1st birthday and on the 15th, the adoption for Dougie and LuLu would be final! They really did it up. The had two big jumping castles for the kids, a magician, tons of Hawaiian food, and music and dancing. I missed most of it because I had to work, but I caught the end of the magic show and a cool slide show of the kids. Congrats Kai Family, we love you guys!

Fun at Golf-n-Stuff....

2008-11-08T20:39:00.000-08:00

On Thursday, Fry's Food Stores, where Jessica works and my former employer had a employee apprieciation night at Golf N' Stuff. They had the whole park closed off for the employees. It was nice to see some of the people I used to work with and visit with those friends that still work there that we don't get to see that much. The kids had a blast riding all the rides and playing laser tag and playing the games. It was a good night of family and friend fun.

This is so me....

2008-11-05T15:09:00.000-08:00

I haven't put up any of the cartoons I have seen in awhile, but I saw this one today and....That is me!! For awhile now, one or both of the boys have been waking up in the middle of the night, and I don't hear a thing, and Jess has to go in and check on them, or in Rynn's case, lay down in bed with him. Pretty much that is where Jess has been spending her nights. I have to admit, I do hear some things, but its back to sleep in an instant for me. I'm in trouble if there is every an emergency!

HAPPY HALLOWEEN....

2008-10-31T18:04:00.001-07:00

Happy Halloween everyone!! The kids got all dressed up and headed out about 6:30pm. I stayed home to pass out the candy, my favorite thing to do. It was kinda slow for a while, then around 7:30 the kids came a knocking. Aunt Debbie brought the kids over a little after that, but they couldn't stay too long cause they had to get to the other side of town by 8:30pm. The kids got home about 8:20, so we checked their bags and they got cleaned up and ready for bed. They pulled in a pretty big haul. I got dibs on the chocolate bars! Hope everyone had a fun and safe Halloween!

Trunk-or-Treat....

2008-10-30T14:16:00.000-07:00

Last night at the church, we took the kids to the trunk-or-treat. This year, it was only our ward, so there were not a lot of cars and kids, but it was just right. Jess decorated the back of the van like a cave and we put blinking lights and scary noises in there, and I sat it the middle and passed out the candy. At the end, our trunk won one of the prizes, I think most scary, so we got a halloween bowl with brownies and popcorn balls in it. We invited our babysitters daughter, Marshelle to it again this year, and she came dressed as a princess. Braydenn was a pirate, Rynn was Bat-Man, Katelynn went as a skeleton punk rocker thingy??, and Mckenna dressed as a St. Louis Ram football player(Losers!!). I love seeing all the primary kids dressed up, then look at you like give me candy, then run away! Good Times!!

USC vs. Arizona...

2008-10-29T16:18:00.000-07:00

Well, the big game came and went, and the U of A lost...17-10! They fought all the way till the end, but came up a little short. I didn't have my photographer McKenna with me this week, she went to on the Temple trip with the youth, and Katelynn went to the movies and trunk-or-treating at the YMCA, so no pictures from the tailgate or the game. I was too busy cooking up the beef and chicken fajitas. And at the game, I took a few, but they stunk. It was a fun game, other than the fact we lost, and we ate good, so maybe next year they will beat USC! No home game until Nov. 22nd vs. Oregon State, so no football updates until then.

Rynn in the shower.....

2008-10-22T14:46:00.000-07:00

Mckenna is like a paparazzi with her new camera. So the other day, while Rynn was in the shower, she decided to film it. I guess this will be blackmail pictures and video for her when Rynn gets older.

U of A vs. Cal....

2008-10-22T11:53:00.000-07:00

After losing to Stanford the week before and not knowing how to team was going to do, we headed out to watch them play Cal, which was ranked #25. We got to the tailgate early and set up the BBQ, and grilled the hot links and chedder dogs. This was also McKenna's friend Sara's first football game, so we had to show her how to tailgate. The food was good, and we threw the ball around awhile, then headed off to the game. The first half was not good, they trailed by 10 points, but the 3rd quarter came and the team exploded for 28 points and held on to win, 42-27. During the game, anytime a song played during a timeout or break, Katelynn got up to dance. Everyone was laughing and making fun of me, because I guess she gets here dancing skills from me, poor Katelynn. But anyways, Mckenna video taped it so all could see. She is mad at us, cause she thinks we are making fun of her, but its just so crazy and funny at the same time we can't help but laugh! It was a good time none the less, and she will get over it(hopefully), but the Cats are 5-2 and headed for a big game against #6 USC. Should be fun!

UA vs. Washington...

2008-10-11T21:25:00.001-07:00

On Saturday Oct 4th, I got home early from work and we as a family watched the first session of conference. We recorded the 2nd session and headed off to the game.(Yes, I skipped Priesthood for a game). My step-dad Jim came down for the game, because it was at 4pm instead of 7pm. We had a good time at the tailgate, then headed over to the game. The Cats won again (4-1), 48-14. The girls had a great time cheering the Cats to a win. Cedric brought his wife Angie to her first game, and she had a blast! Before I left, I asked my mom to show Jess how to make chicken and dumpling's for dinner after the game, so when we got home....yummy dinner for me! I hadn't had that for like forever. Thanks Mom!

Another day at the park.....

2008-10-03T14:47:00.000-07:00

On Monday, I got off work early and Jess had the day off, so we met at the park to play with the kids. Jess stopped by McDonald's and got hamburgers for lunch, then we ate and started playing on the slides. After a while, the sprinklers came on on the soccer fields, so my kids thought they had to go play in them. After about 10 minutes, they shut off and it was off to the house. Silly kids! They had fun though, I guess that what counts.

Ward campout...

2008-09-21T00:32:00.000-07:00

This is the first time since we have been in the ward we got to go to the campout. I was able to get Saturday off, so we headed up to Mt. Lemmon after I got off of work on Friday. The whole way up Braydenn was crying, so we finally pulled over so I could hold him so he would be quiet. We got there around 5:30pm, unloaded the van, which by the way, for just spending one night up there, we had a ton of stuff to unload! I guess when you have 4 kids, you can't just take an ice chest and a tent. We set up the tent, and then the ward started the fire and we all sat around and ate what we had brought. We decided to BBQ hot dogs and have chips and pasta salad. After we all ate and cleaned up, we all gathered around the fire and did skits from Church History. We as an Elders Quorum did our skit on Brigham Young "This is the Place". It was a good time trying to guess what everyone was doing, because we couldn't talk when we acted out the skits. We then made smores, cleaned up, and headed for bed. As for that... didn't go over so well with Braydenn. I was very tired from working all day, and my body clock telling me that I usually have to be up in 2hrs for work(1:30am). First Braydenn didn't want in his pop-up crib, then Jess had to hold him, then Jess had to walk outside the tent and none of this worked. He would lay down for 30-45 minutes and then be up for an hour or more. And to compound the problem, me and Brother Don were having a snoring contest that everyone could hear!! Not a good night for Jess. Everyone got up for breakfast around 6:30am, except me, and ate and then started taking down the tents. The Young Women went on a nature walk, and I played with the boys and helped Jess pack up everthing. We headed down the mountain around 11:30, and about 2/3rds of the way down, Rynn had to go potty. We stopped at an outhouse, but he would'nt use it, so he pee-peed on a bush next to it. We got no futher then maybe 2 miles farther down, and Rynn puked. While we were cleaning up that, Braydenn puked! Not good! Also, Braydenn cried the whole way down, but he had an excuse this time. Nothing like the smell of string cheese and gatorade the second time! We finally got home around 1:30pm, unloaded and watched the U of A beat up on UCLA on T.V. Not a good first family camping trip, but a memorable one to say the least.

The boys at the park...

2008-09-11T14:57:00.000-07:00

On Wednesday's, because I am off and the girls are at school, I take the boys to McDonald's and then the park. We eat and then play on the slides. They have a great time and get wore out, then come home for a nap. Yeah, peace and quiet for 1hr until the girls get home. Sometimes they wear me out and I take a nap too!

Happy birthday to me....

2008-09-09T22:01:00.001-07:00

On this day, many moon's ago, like 36 or something, little ol' me was born. No party or gifts this year, just peace and quiet, which is the way I like it. I wanted to just relax and I was on vacation from work, so Jess took the boys to the sitter's house and the girls went off to school, so I slept in to about 9am. I got up and opened the door and Mckenna and Katelynn had made little signs and stuck them all around the house(36 signs to be exact). At the end of the stairs was this huge sign! After I looked all around the house and I mean everywhere,I just laid around watching TV. I was supposed to play golf, but my buddy cancelled so I took a nap. Then everyone got home around 4pm, and Jess made dinner and we had banana splits for dessert. Then I opened the few gifts the girls made, because they said I had to get something for my birthday. All in all it was a good day to turn one year older!

U of A vs. Toledo....

2008-09-08T08:45:00.000-07:00

On Saturday, Sept 6th, we went to the game vs Toledo. This was officially McKenna's first football game. We had a good time tailgating with lots of food and then headed to the stadium. No weather delays this time, and the Wildcats won the game 41-17. Mckenna had a great time and took tons of pictures with the new camera she got for her birthday. 2-0! This might be a good year for the Cats!

U of A vs. Idaho.....

2008-09-04T11:44:00.001-07:00

On Saturday, Aug 30th, we went to the first game of the year. It was a little cloudy and windy, but we had no idea on how bad the weather would get. This year the girls get to go to all the games, but McKenna went camping with her friend Sara, so just Katelynn got to go. At the start of the game just before kickoff, a HUGE lightning bolt came down which seemed like right behind the stadium. They postponed kickoff for 45 minutes. In the meantime, it started pouring! We got soaked, but we didn't leave our seats, crazy fans we are! They finally the started the game, and the U of A put a whooping on Idaho. 70-0! It rained the whole game, but we were loving the blow out. Looks like a good start to the year and hopefully a winning season! GO CATS!

Mckenna's Birthday party...

2008-08-29T17:07:00.000-07:00

We had McKenna's bithday today, because she couldn't make up her mind of what to do and who to invite. WOMEN! Anyways, she had a sleepover with a few of her friends. Nothing like a house full of girls, especially at this age! No wonder I have gray hair! They started the party with a water balloon fight in the front yard. We got pizza from Pizza Hut then they made cupcakes for dessert. They stayed up late watching movies and eating junk food.

Happy 12th Birthday McKenna...

2008-08-18T20:52:00.001-07:00

On this day 12 years ago, YES 12!, Mckenna was born. She always wants to go to the Olive Garden for dinner, so that is where we went. After dinner, we took her to Best Buy to buy her the camera she wanted. I can't believe I have a pre-teen now! SCARY!! And she is in Jr. High! Where has the time gone. Happy Birthday Kenna! Love You!!

First day of school...

2008-08-04T19:56:00.000-07:00

Its that time of year again(yeah). Here are the girls first day of school pics! Katelynn is in 3rd grade and Mckenna is in 7th grade(jr. high school)(scary)!

Rynn's 3rd Birthday!.....

2008-08-03T18:46:00.000-07:00

On this day 3 years ago, my little buddy was born! Well,he is not so little anymore, and he will tell you too. "I'm a big boy" is all we hear nowadays! On Aug 2nd, Rynn got a haircut. He was not too much for it, but it was better than the last couple we have tried to give him. We didn't even have to hold him down this time, so maybe he is done being a weenie about haircuts. After, we went to Costco to buy some ice cream cupcakes and a helicopter toy for his birthday. We had dinner, then opened his gifts from the family. Then we dug into our ice cream cupcakes. Rynn went face first into his! His birthday was on Sunday this year, so we didn't have a huge party, just some friends from the neighborhood who just happen to be in our ward. He was excited anyways, and kept telling everyone, "welcome to my party, I'm 3!" Happy Birthday Buddy!!

Golfing with the guys...

2008-08-01T09:55:00.000-07:00

On Wednesday, July 30, I went golfing with a couple of friends. Bryan, Curt and Roger met me at Silverbell Golf Course at about 6am for our 6:04am tee time. I don't golf as much as I would like and definetly not as much as Bryan and Curt, but I did a lot better than I usually do, so all in all I had a good round by my standards. I have always wanted to take video of me and my friends golfing, but always have forgot the camera. This time I remembered it, but didn't pull it out until towards the end. Oh well, here are a few shots of us golfing.

she finally did it!

2008-07-19T13:30:00.001-07:00

On Friday July 18, my mom finally graduated from college! We met up with her and Jim in Casa Grande for lunch at the Golden Corral and then drove up to Glendale to the new football stadium for the Cardinals. The University of Phoenix sponsers the stadium, so that is where the ceremonies were held. My mom got her degree in Accounting. The main speaker was Oprah's ex, Stedman. Way to go MOM! I'm so proud of you and am glad I got to see you get your diploma in person.

Elle Belle is gone home for the summer....

2008-07-16T14:19:00.000-07:00

On Monday, Jess took Elle up to Phoenix for her flight home back to Oregon. The time she was here went by fast, and we could'nt go on a big vacation liked we had planned, but I hope she enjoyed it here as much as I had having her here. Besides my kids fighting and arguing all the time, I think she did. Elle, I love you and hope you get to come back next year! Thanks for spending part of your summer with us!! Here are some pics of Elle we took while she was here.

Happy July 4th.....

2008-07-04T21:10:00.001-07:00

On July Fourth, we had a busy day! First, I woke up real early to play basketball for a few hours, then we headed over to the church potluck breakfast at Continental Reserve Park at 7:30am. Lots of good food and water games for the kids. After that, we came home to rest for a couple of hours and then we went to see the Ringling Bros. and Barnum and Bailey circus. I haven't been to the circus in forever, so I was just as excited as the kids were to go. Unfortuntaly, Rynn and Braydenn weren't feeling that good, so they didn't enjoy it has much as we hoped. But it was still a good time and toward the end, Rynn got into it. After that we stopped by the house to get our swim suits and headed over to my friend Ryan's house to BBQ and swim. The kids had a great time swimming. We then ate and watched a movie, then I took they boys home and Jess took the girls to see the fireworks with everyone else. We saw a few on the way home, coupled with some lightning which delayed the fireworks on "A" Mountain for almost an hour. It was a busy day, but a FUN day all in all!

Fun at the Oasis...

2008-07-02T21:39:00.001-07:00

On June 30th, we took a trip up to Phoenix to spend a couple of days at the Arizona Grand Hotel and Resort. They have a water park called the Oasis. Before we got up there, we stopped by my Mom's to see my brother Jesse, who was visiting. It was good to see him even though it was for only for a little while. We then headed up for the fun! Jess took the kids to the water park after we checked in, and I took a nap (had to work that day). They spent over three hours there, so we didn't eat dinner until after 9pm. Yummy McDonald's! In the morning after a good night's rest (the most comfortable beds I have ever slept in at a Hotel!)we all went to the water park. What a blast! We all got on tubes and rode the river, went down the super fast slides and swam in the kiddie pool and huge wave pool. We all had a great time, except Braydenn pooped out and fell asleep in the pool while Jess was holding him. After the swim, we headed to the Mall and had dinner at the Rainforest Cafe. Rynn did not like all the animal sounds through out dinner and fell asleep. We then headed back home where everyone pasted out! It was a great time too get away and have fun as a whole family!

Happy Fathers Day...

2008-06-15T22:29:00.000-07:00

For Father's Day, the kids let me sleep in, and then they (with Jessica's help) made me breakfast in bed. They made eggs, sausage, pancakes, cinnamon rolls, fruit and orange juice. YUMMY! At church the Relief Society made all the Father's chocolate chip cookies. DOUBLE YUMMY! After church, we drove up to my Mom's house in Casa Grande and had a BBQ and watched some US Open golf and the Lakers game with my Step-Dad Jim. The BBQ was great and the Lakers won! It was a great day to be a Father. I so glad I am one four times over!

Elle Belle is here..

2008-06-14T17:39:00.000-07:00

On Thursday the 12th, Jessica brought back from Phoenix her cousin Elle. She came in from Oregon and will be with us for about 5 weeks. It will be exciting to have another "pre-teen" in the house! HA HA!! Here's a few pics of her after her shower. I will put up more after we take more. WELCOME ELLE BELLE!!!!

Happy Mother's Day...

2008-05-11T17:38:00.000-07:00

A month or so ago, I saw in the paper that they were having a Mother/Daughter look-a-like contest for Mother's Day. I took a picture of Jessica and McKenna and submitted it. McKenna was so excited to see their picture on the website and she really wanted to win. Two weeks ago, we got a phone call saying that the girls had been picked as one of the top ten and the paper wanted to take their picture for the contest. On Wed. May 7th, Jessica and McKenna went down and had their picture taken. The contest winners would get their picture put in the Sunday paper. Well... they did not win the grand prize(matching pearl necklaces), but they finished in third place and got their picture in the paper! They missed first place by 11 votes. They did have the most comments of all the contestents, which by the way, 263 Mother/Daughters entered, so they got the most "love"! Although I don't think either picture does them justice as far as looking alike, because in person, they do so much, all in all McKenna is Jessica's mini-me. Thanks to everyone who voted. HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY to all the Mother's in my life, past and present. Love you!

Video of the girls at the Fair...

2008-04-30T20:53:00.000-07:00

Fun at the Fair...

2008-04-30T20:38:00.000-07:00

On Friday, April 25, we took the kids to the Pima County Fair for the day. We got there early so we could check out the animals before the rides opened. Rynn loves to see the horses, so he was excited when we took him to see the Budweiser Clydesdale's. Braydenn liked the petting zoo, because the goats were small like him. The kids got to pet a pig and feed a horse. Then when the rides opened, we set the kids free. The girls had a blast on the rides and we all got on the big Ferris wheel for a family ride. Rynn loved the rides made for him. All in all it was a good family fun day at the fair!

2008 Basketball Champs!!!!!

2008-04-27T19:11:00.000-07:00

I am really behind in posting this, as I was waiting for the pictures to be developed, but on Feb 26, 2008, our Men's Basketball team won the Tournament for our Stake. We came in with a 5-5 record, seeded fifth in the tourney, and we went on to beat the fourth place team, the first place team, and finally the second seeded team to win it all!! I told the team to gather for our team picture before the game started, because I wanted a picture of the 1st place team and also to show the other team we were ready to win and it worked because we won! Some of the guys said I was going to jinx it, but I just had a feeling, the same one I had when we did the same thing for softball, took the picture first, then went on to win, call it arrogant but I call it confident!! Although the picture doesn't show all who played with us this season, for the most part it is the ones who showed up the most. It was a great night of team basketball, as at the end of the first half we pulled away a bit and was up by 12 points. We came out in the second half, built up a 20 point lead and kinda coasted the rest of the way. We won by 9, but really it wasn't that close. It was probaly the best we played all season. Congrats Thornydale Men's Basketball!

Katelynn's Baptism...

2008-03-08T22:00:00.001-08:00

On March 8, 2008, Katelynn was Baptized a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. I was lucky enough that she picked me to perform the baptism. As we got into the font, and everyone gathered around to watch, I was overwelmed by the Spirit, and I totaly forgot what I was supposed to say. I was standing there in the water, asking Katelynn if she remembered what she was to do, all the while trying to remember the baptismal prayer, and having no luck. I said a little prayer myself, looked up to Tim Anderson, our first counsler in the Bishopric, and said"ok how does this start?" He said with her full name, and as he said it, it all came back to me, I calmed down settled my emotions, and performed the baptism. After we got out to change, which by the way was funny because we forgot the towels at home, we listened to the speakers who were there, and then we confirmed Katelynn and presented her the Holy Ghost. Again, standing in the circle, surrounded by men called of God, I was again overwelmed by the Spirit, this time enough to bring tears, I had to stop and gather myself before continuing, but I finished with the blessing. That was a very emotional time and one that will not soon be forgotten. Congrats Katelynn on your Baptism, and remember now you are accountable for all you do, but also Heavenly Father loves you and is happy at the choices you have made.

Old Tucson...

2008-03-02T19:32:00.000-08:00

Last week, when my sister in-law and her family were in town(Austin and baby, Topanga, yes Boy meets World, Topanga),and with McKenna's friend Sarah, we all went out to Old Tucson. It was a beautiful day outside, and the kids had a good time. We saw just about all the shows, it was not busy at all, so we could do everything. Here are a few pics from our day.

Happy 8th Birthday Katelynn...

2008-02-27T16:25:00.000-08:00

On February 16th, Katelynn Danielle turned 8 years old! I was waiting to get the pics back from the party, that's why this post is late. Anyways, Katelynn had a sleepover with three of her good friends from school. They made ice cream, decorated cookies, and watched movies. At around 10pm, my sister in-law Kara showed up from Oregon with her husband Austin and baby Topanga. The girls were up all night long, when I got up for work at 1:30am they were still giggling, and Jess told me she had to tell them at 3:30am to go to sleep! Crazy girls. Happy Birthday Katelynn, Love you!!!

Happy Birthday Ryan...

2008-02-25T19:45:00.000-08:00

Today is one of my bestest friends Birthdays. We went to Pinnacle Peak's steakhouse for dinner, then stayed around and watch the gunfight show afterwords. Happy Birthday BUDDY! Here are some pics from after dinner. The two boys in the pics are Ryan's boy's, Brennan and Bailey. Jess and the boys didn't come because the boys were being "buttfaces" according to Jess, so they stayed home. Ryan's Mom was in town, so it was nice to see her at dinner. All in all it was a good time.

Father/Daughter Dance...

2008-02-21T17:18:00.000-08:00

On February 8th, the girls had their annual Father/Daughter Dance at the school. This years theme was Western, and being that I'm not the Cowboy type, I borrowed a cowboy hat and buckle(circa 1970's) and dressed the part and took them. We had a pretty good time, but it didn't hit me until I was dancing a slow song with McKenna that this is the last Father/Daughter dance for us. I also got to thinking that maybe this was the last dance we might have together until her wedding day, at least a formal one. I then made it a point to dance more often with her through out the night, and when they invited just the sixth graders out with their Dad's, it was our special dance for the evening. We concluded the dancing with a Jonas Bros. song which everyone was into, and the girls were screaming along with the music. I then took McKenna to her friends house for a sleepover and Katelynn and I finished our date with some ice cream at the Dairy Queen. I REALLY don't like to dance, but this is one occasion every year that gets me out on the dance floor to show off my "moves", so to say! GO WHITE BOY GO!!

Happy 1st Birthday Braydenn!!!

2008-01-29T21:44:00.000-08:00

Today is my little buddies 1st Birthday! There was a time when I didn't think he would make it because of his big brother, but he managed. He is one tough little dude! He was sick, just like Daddy, but he managed to eat his popsicles, have a slice of pizza, and then eat some frosting off his Birthday cookie. Braydenn...I love you little guy! Here's too many more birthday's to come!

We Thank Thee O God For A Prophet.....

2008-01-28T13:23:00.000-08:00

As I was driving to work this morning(1:45am), thinking about the day ahead of me, and trying not to cough my brains out, for I have been sick for the past couple days and the weather isn't helping, I was listening to talk radio when all of a sudden the voice said: " President Gordon B. Hinckley of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints has passed away at the age of 97." I was totally taken aback and I pulled into our parking lot at work and sat there a few minutes trying to take it all in. I went in to work, and I saw one of the in-active members that work with me and told him, and we shared a nice conversation before we started off to work. All morning I was thinking about all the things I remember President Hinckley teaching us and all the talks I have read by him. Along with not feeling good, I was saddened by the fact that we as members of the church will no longer hear him give a talk at conference or read his message in the Ensign. I know he is in a better place now, no more suffering from his health and he is once again re-united with his wonderful wife, but I can't help but miss him already. Other than Joseph Smith and Spencer W. Kimball, both which I have read alot about lately, President Hinckley is the one Prophet I have truly admired for all he has meant to me in my life, and is the one Prophet who got me thinking about and finally returning to church. Thanks for helping me "fix", or better yet getting me back on the straight and narrow path in my life. Hope one day I will be able to shake your hand up in the Celestrial Kingdom, along with my family and OUR Heavenly Father. GOD BLESS YOU, you will be missed but never forgotton.

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!

2008-01-01T09:45:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year from the Hartman's! Hope 2008 is a better year for all of our family and friend's. Looking forward to spending more time with you all than we have in the past. See ya soon!!

On this day, December 19th...

2007-12-19T13:39:00.000-08:00

Happy Birthday to my brother Jessie! Can't wait to see you Saturday, so we can update this picture. LOL! Miss you Jessie Michael Jean. I love uh you, you love uh me? Also on this day, A good and long time friend was born, Laura (Post) Lehman. (and her twin sis, Lisa). HAPPY BIRTHDAY GUYS!!!

Meeting with Santa....

2007-12-12T16:32:00.000-08:00

On Saturday, December 8th, we had our Ward Christmas Party. The theme this year was "Christmas around the World." We had treats from Germany, Mexico, Brazil, Italy, France, Hawaii, and New York to name a few. I invited some non-member friends, and at the last minute they cancelled, but they made desserts from France which were yummy. Later on after dinner, we sangs Christmas songs, and then Santa came. YEAH! Our friend Kirby was taking pictures for the Ward, and here are a few of my favorites. Braydenn was fussy and needed to be changed, so we didn't get a picture of him with Santa. All in all, it was a good night to be with friends and family.

HAPPY 12TH ANNIVERSARY....

2007-11-25T17:58:00.000-08:00

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Today is our 12th anniversary!! YEAH! It seems like only yesterday we were married, but yet it is so long ago. HA! Time has sure added years(and weight) to our bodies, and I am missing some hair, but our love for each other has grown and grown. I Love You Jess, thanks for all you do. Thanks for putting up with me this long, Lord knows its been rough! Thanks for our four beautiful children. I am looking forward for many, many more years together, or as I always say...your stuck with me FOREVER!!! HAPPY ANNIVERSARY!!!

More Arizona vs. Oregon....

2007-11-19T14:32:00.001-08:00

This is some video I shot while on the field. Pretty funny stuff (from Dan of course). GOOD TIMES!!!

ARIZONA UPSETS OREGON...

2007-11-16T19:35:00.000-08:00

On Thursday, Nov. 15th, The U of A beat the Ducks of Oregon 34-24. Oregon was ranked #2 in the nation before the game, and their fans were running their mouths from the start. We had a whole bunch of them in front of us, so the trash talking was flowing. By halftime though all was quiet with them, as Arizona was up 31-14, and their star QB was out with an injury. As soon as the game ended, we all rushed the field to celebrate with the team. It was an awesome way to end the season at home!! The next game will be up in Tempe against those stinky Scum Devils in two weeks. GO CATS!!

NASCAR race in Phoenix...

2007-11-12T12:22:00.000-08:00

On Saturday, Nov. 10th, I went to the Busch Series Race in Phoenix with a friend from church(Brad)and his boys(Kholer,Joshua). Brad is a Store Director for Home Depot, so he got suite passes for us, so we had real good seats for the race. We got to the race early, so we went up to the suite and ate lunch, then walked around awhile. We went over to the Home Depot Experience they had set up and the boys made little wooden benches. We also got our pictures taken in the #20 Home Depot car. Tony Stewart is my favorite driver, so this was a real cool trip for me. Later, we went back up to the suites and watched the race. We all had a great time. Thanks Brad! After the race, Brad and the boys went home and I went to Dan's house, which is in Chandler, and went to a Birthday party for his girlfriend's family. Then on Sunday, I just hung out with him and his Mom for the day, and got home late Sunday evening. It was a great weekend.

more tailgating fun..

2007-11-06T18:38:00.000-08:00

On Saturday, Nov. 3rd U of A played UCLA for Homecoming. The game started at 12:30, so we had to start the tailgate at 9am. I got off of work at 9:30, so I was late, but we still had a good turnout. When I got there, Eric was making breakfast for all of us. We all ate, and then headed over tho the stadium. It was a hot afternoon, but the game was great. We won, 34-27!! My buddy Ryan, the only UCLA fan among us was not happy to say the least. Everytime we scored, we sprayed him with silly string. We had the whole section cracking up! He got to get us early in the game, but that was about all, as the Cats lead most of the way. After the game, a few of us went out to eat at Famous Dave's BBQ. All in all it was a good day.

Some halloween pics...

2007-10-31T21:01:00.000-07:00

Here are a few of the pics that turned out OK. My camera stinks, and doesnt focus right all the time. Oh well, we took pics with a regular camera, so those will turn out better. I will post those later.

HAPPY HALLOWEEN...

2007-10-31T20:52:00.000-07:00

This is a picture of the front of our house. Halloween is my favorite holiday of the year, so I like to decorate the yard each year, well Jess does the work. HA! The kids had a great time, and got tons of candy. I stayed home with Braydenn to pass out candy and Jess took the other kids out along with my Aunt and her kids and a friend from church and her daughter. My camera stinks, so I only got a couple of pictures that turned out good. As soon as we develop the others, I will post those.

funny papers...

2007-10-24T11:56:00.000-07:00

Here is one of my favorite cartoons from the newspaper. I read this one everyday, and saw these and cut them out. They made me laugh, because that is so me!! On a sad note, well kinda, my dad, everytime he writes us a letter, he puts stuff from the funny pages in his notes and sends them to us, for years he has been doing this. I'M TURNING INTO MY DAD!!! I cut things out of the funny pages! HELP ME!!

Softball Champs!

2007-10-24T11:47:00.000-07:00

Here is a pic of the West Stake softball champs! whoo hoo! Our team kicked some booty this season. The team we beat for the championships had beat us two times this year, but we took it out on them in the finals, 23-11! Go Thornydale ward!

Tailgate party......

2007-10-22T13:29:00.000-07:00

Every Arizona home game, we get together for a tailgate party, usually 4-5 hours before the game starts. Everyone brings something to share, and we just hang out and talk, toss the football and eat. Usually there are anywhere from 18-24 of us at the tailgate, but in the picture not everyone was there yet. Hopefully we will get the whole gang together before the season ends, and I will get a picture of everyone.

Katelynn's 1st football game...

2007-10-22T13:15:00.000-07:00

Katelynn went to her first U of A football game Saturday. First we went to our tailgate party, and ate lunch and got our goodies ready for the game. Then we all walked over to the stadium. The Cats played Stanford, and well like just about every game this year, The UA lost(21-20). Oh well, I'm getting used to it. Katelynn was all about eating her candy and drinking her blue lemonade, which Travis bought for her, in the first half. But as the game got further in, she started cheering for our team. She had a great time with everyone, and she said she wants to go again.

Well, here we go....

2007-10-17T11:35:00.000-07:00

This is the first post in my blog. I am going to see if I can do this on a regular basis. Although my life is busy busy busy, with four kids, I think I can sneak away for a few to post something on here for my family and friends. Its taken me a week or so to get this far, so bear with me as I try to get this thing up and running.