Chaze Blessed the Sacrament

Today was the first day Chaze was able to bless the Sacrament - I know it sounds kinda of silly to blog something like this, but Chaze and Sam it is about all the little things in life that allows them the chance to say 'Way to Go!' or able to recognize what amazing Young Men they are!

I try during my post NOT to go over board about how impressed I am with 'my booooooys", but the truth is I can't even explain the feelings I have for each of them and how much they have brought into my life.

It is a great feeling to be able to do what Micah and I have chosen to do, but the truth is (for me) I am glad that Sam and Chaze have been able to share their life with me and with Micah.

SHS vs. Northridge

Another successful game for the Titans! As you can see, Chaze is not feeling 100% - in fact before the game started the trainer called Micah and I out of the stands to talk with him.

Our biggest disappointment for the week was that Micah and I missed the JV Game against Northridge, where BOTH booooys got to play! Micah's truck broke down, so we had to have it towed and we had to take it to the mechanic to only find out that he needed to have his 'hubb' replaced. Needless to say, Micah and I were surely disappointed when we learned both boys got to play!

Baby Boys

Yet another Sunday afternoon . . . . .

Endowment Game

Syracuse Titans vs. Cooperhills 17-14

Neither of the boys played tonight, but we; Micah, Sadie, Kayson, Kenzie, Megan, Adyen, Jaelyn and I had a great time sitting in the stands supporting the the Titans and the boys!

J.V. vs. Varsity Scrimmage Game

Today Chaze and Sam had a scrimmage game – JV vs. Varsity.

In the last three weeks the boys have been attending every practice in hopes of being able to catch up with the current team; and Micah and I are proud to say that they have been doing a great job!

Micah and I were so excited to go over to the High School and watch . . . It was not until we arrived that we realized neither of the boys ever told us what number they were. So the first twenty minutes of the game we spent trying to figure out which guys were ours! (Of course Chaze told me that for game days he actually has a different number; just means I am going to remember a new number for him and Sam.)

Last night it was so exciting to be able to sit in the stands and cheer them both on - Chaze was so excited to be out there the majority of the time showing the coaches what he is made of. Sam is still working on learning the Offensive Line plays, but is hoping after this week to be able to prove himself to the coach and be able to play in the next few weeks.

Roy Aquatic Center

After morning practice I took the boys to the Roy Pool – Since the last week and a half had been so crazy I told them I would take them to the pool. This place seemed to have endless hours of fun – there were two slides the “curly one” and the “super fast one”. The afternoon goal was prefect the routine needed to make it from the top of the “super fast one” to the ropes that separated the two pools.

After work Micah came to join us and the rest of the day is history! Well that’s not true Chaze challenged me slide down the “super fast one” – did I mention I am afraid of heights? I had conquered the challenge of the stairs most of the afternoon so that I was able to enjoy the “curly” slide . . . but seriously climb the stairs and slide down the “super fast one” . . . a deal is a deal! I, Tanya Laroche Smith being of crazy mind and able body slide down the “super fast one” and lived to tell about it!

Happy Birthday Chaze

Today is Chaze’s 17^th Birthday . . . And he had told me that he doesn’t really care for birthdays and I usually support such a choice, however, this one time I couldn’t do that! I know - - I know - - it is such a shock for me to decide to do what I wanted to do!

The boys started two-a-day practices this week; 8am to 10:30am and then again at 6pm to 8:30pm. Since it was Chaze’s birthday his mom was going to be in town to time to spend the afternoon with him and take him shopping. So off Sam and I went to run the list of errands I had to get done in time for everyone to come over for a sweet treat at 8:30 this evening.

After taking Sam for his football physical and going to my school to get the right text book – off I went to get a few “extra” things for Chaze’s get together a.k.a Birthday Party.

I know how it feels to not want a birthday party and not having a big deal made over me and I truly wanted to give that to Chaze, but I can’t imagine a time in life where having a big deal made of you would be so important! Chaze has such an amazing family, very supportive and have such a bond you can’t help but see how deep the family ties are in his family. However, not being able to have that surrounding you 24/7 and on such an important day as today could be a little down – so Micah and I just wanted to be to take his mind off it and allow him to enjoy his day if just for a few hours.

So I invited all of Chaze’s newest and best friends forever; Ayden (5), Jaelyn (4), Braxton(6), Kylie(4), Brecken(4), Kayson(8), Hunter(8), Kenize(6) and Brynlie(4).

Just Another Sunday Afternoon

In attempts to make up for the late supper last night I made French toast this morning. Soon after, the boys(Sam, Chaze and Micah) went to church while I stayed home in attempts to complete three weeks of homework that I am behind (and is all due by August 17th). Did I mention I was placed in the wrong class and once I was able to figure that out I was confused with the reading material and assignments – Only to find I was given the wrong book also!?!?!? I was able to complete a handful of assignments and ‘googled’ the few questions I was unable to find in my “wrong” book.

The afternoon was great!! We were all able to have a chance to relax, snack and watch Friday Night Lights, Radio, and Remember the Titans. I don’t know what it is, but I just love movies about Football. I am still looking for Invincible and We are Marshall to add to me existing collection.

While dinner was finishing up cooking inside the four of us went outside to enjoy the nice weather. And did I mention that Chaze and Sam filled up some water balloons to through at the little kids in the neighborhood!?!? Every summer we have our share of water balloon fights and I thought it would a fun time for the older boys to have started some fun and safe mischief.

I am surprised everyday at the interaction these older boys have with the kids of the neighborhood. I cannot walk out the door, or pull up in an empty car without one of the neighborhood kids asking me “Where is Chaze and Sam? When will they be home?” or my favorite “Can Chaze and Sam come out to play or ride bikes?” Sam and Chaze are never too cool or too busy to toss a football around or ride bikes with them up and down the cul-de-sac. They are excellent role-models to these young boys; they explain the importance’s of taking turns, how to be a good team player, and giving endless amounts of support to help build these little guys (and the little girls) self esteem.

Micah and I are both so grateful to have these young men in our life and look forward to watching them to continue making such great progress in their own lives.

Football Pads

The boys got their football pads today and just had to try them out before they went off to practice.

Layton Surf n Swim

Here's Sam showing off some of his moves while we were at the pool, also take note of the chin damage that took place. Sam is a little worried that the facial hair that he has growing was shaved away by the bottom of the pool. I have been teasing him for days about the lack of peach fuzz on his face . . . .

Here's Chaze showing off his pool moves.

Today the boys and I met up with Sadie, Megan, Melissa and all the kids to go to the Layton Surf .n. Swim. It was the first time I had ever been to a swimming/recreation center of this kind and I was surprised how much fun I had. It turned out to be a great day and we all had a lot of fun!

We finished the night off with pizza and bread sticks from Little Ceaser's then a little R&R over in the Mill's backyard.

A Day at the Park . . . Playing Football

After we got to the park a small game of football took place, before we knew if a couple of other kids visintg the park joined in.

I just have to say that Sam and Chaze have to be two of the most amazing young men Micah and I have met. Both of these boys have become members of our neighborhood family in their short period of time they joined us, it is almost hard to Rembrandt a time when they haven't been with us.

A few nights ago I received a text message from our neighbor Megan to tell us that Ayden things Sam and Chaze are the best and that they some of his best friends!

Apricot and Pineapple Jam

They call me Betty Crocker, but I just think of myself as someone who wants to try something at least once!

The other day Chaze's Uncle Mike came to visit for a little while and he asked if we would be interested in some apricots. I said sure why not, I have always wanted to make jam! So the boys and I rushed off to Wal-Mart to get some canning jars, sugar, and that stuff you need to make jam.

After we returned from our study hour at the library I went start to work. My hands were like little prunes after I pitted all of those apricots . . . . I followed the directions word for word! I know I know . . . I of all people followed directions when making something, but guess what!?!? I still managed to make an alteration that hopefully does not make a huge mistake ~ I really like Apricot and Pineapple jam so I removed 1 cup of apricots and replaced it with 1 cup of crushed pineapple.

When all was said and done and Micah came home to me cleaning up (he was rather surprised by this new kitchen adventure) I was nervous that it was going to be a total BUST, but the next morning after everything had time to cool off I was excited to learn that all the jars were sealed tight and appeared to have settled just as the instructions indicated.

Stay tuned to see how yummy or yucky it may have turned out . . . I have ten jars of it, hopefully it is eatable. If not, Christmas gifts for my dearest of friends who won't have the heart to tell me I suck!

Bicycle Ride to the Park

This evening my three "boys" decided it would be a great idea to take a bicycle ride to the park just around the corner from our sub-division. As you can imagine living in our "cool-de-sac" as we are commonly refereed to - the younger boys in the neighborhood are enjoying have two older boys who have been so willing to ride bikes up and down the street and play catch.

It is also no secret that Ayden was just thrilled when Micah took him to ride his bike all the way to the park a month ago and has been asking since then when were they going to go again. Off they all went; Micah, Sam, Chaze, Ayden, Braxton, Hunter and little Jaelyn. I drove behind them with my emergency flashers just in case there were cars that weren't prepared for a neighborhood trip to the park.

Syracuse High School Football Team

Sam and Chaze have joined the Syracuse High school Football Team! Both of the boys are so excited to be able to play football and are really enjoying have some friend time with their team mates.

Football practice is Monday through Friday from 7am to 9:15am - the first few days I did not know if I should laugh or cry watching them walk out of the gym, here are these young men (17 years old) walking like little old men (107 years old). They have been great sports; you can see how tried and exhausted they are, but not once have either of them mentioned giving up! They are both dedicated to making the football team and giving it their all -Micah and I are extremely proud!

Sam and Chaze both have taken the time to complete ten letter to family and friends back home asking for sponsorship, as well as, walking door to door selling 'I Support Syracuse Titan!" signs. Our most amazing neighbor Nick even offered an award of a $100 Gift Card to each boy if they sold all ten signs they were asked to sell by the Football coach. Tonight the boys will go back out and contuie to impress MIcah and I with their determination - Even though several people in the community and said No, since they do not have kids in high school! Seriously folks . . . ONE DAY your kids will go there. I know it's a tough economy, but supporting your community benefits us all.

Sam 6 and Chaze 5

Family Fun Day at Sparetime

Micah, Chaze, Sam and I headed to Sparetime in Syracuse this evening to have our first family fun day; we had a blast!

Monday night after dinner we headed over to Sparetime to play a few arcade games and then enjoy the nightly special of $7.99 per person for unlimited bowling from 7pm-11pm. I was only able to play 1 1/2 games since my neck and shoulder are still healing from the car accident in May, but the three boys were so great in taking turns for me . . . after 4 games the total was Chaze 3 - Sam 1

The Chaze Laugh

A few nights before this the four of us were on our way to or from somewhere and Chaze busted out in this laugh and it had to be one of the funniest things when you are caught off guard.

I had to wait to capture it on video - as he mentioned he can perform on demand.

Meet the Newest Addition to the Family . . . Kia!

Kia has come to stay with the Smith's until Irene and Kevin come back to retrieve her.

Playing Catch - Football

This evening we spend sometime outside once it cooled down!

The morning started off with breakfast at Jermiah's - always a good place to start the day! I am not much of a breakfast person, but somehow I always manage to walk away from there a happy camper. It must be the home made freshly bakes bread they have each morning - YUMMY Sourdough!!

After breakfast we headed back home to let Kevin rest, he was not feeling well! (That's another blog post all on it's own) It was nice to be at home and enjoying the company and not have anything planned . . . We ran some errands to Wal-Mart - What is a visit to Utah without at least two or three trips to Wal-Mart with Irene.

We had a great family dinner; BBQ Hamburgers with all the good summer foods like watermelon and corn on the cobb. After dinner we all went outside . . . the boys took the chance to get some practice time in with the football before football practice the next morning at 7am!

Instant Family Photo

New bikes from Oma and Opa Wilson and Micah on a Rip-Stick?!?!

I was off with Roma today, and my folks arrived from Colorado after visiting little Kevin and Dawn. They were coming by to drop of some more camping equipment now that we have the two extra people in our family, as well as, two bikes Kevin received as payment for some work he did for a customer.

As for Micah, I am not sure what he was thinking on that Rip-Stick!?!? I better increase his life insurance if he is going to be that daring.

Happy 1st Birthday Anika

Just want to wish Anika a very Happy 1st Birthday

Chaze's Home

Fun Fact about Chaze

• Birth date: August 10th
  
• Age: 17 years old this August
  
• Junior at Syracuse High School
  
• Hometown: Blanding, Utah
  
• Favorite Sport: Football
• Favorite Color: Green
  
• Favorite Movie: 7 Pounds
  
• Favorite Book: Cedar Post
  
• Hobbies: Hunting, Trapping, ranching, fishing, anything outdoors! He asked that I add annoying people like Tanya "Nannnaa LOOK!"
  
• Favorite Food: Hamburgers
  
• Favorite Holiday: 4th of July
  
• Least Favorite food: Squash
  
• Favorite Season: Autumn/Fall
  
• Favorite Subject in School: Language Arts
  
• Favorite TV Channel: Animal Planet
  
• Favorite TV Show: Amazing Race
  

Basement Project - Tile Part Two

Look-E Look-E Look-E . . . the family room downstairs seems to be a work in progress once again. With Sam and Chaze moving in we found the need to use the family room downstairs which meant we needed to complete the project we started two years ago.

It is a great place to hang out; watching TV or playing games! It is also handy to have when you have out of town guests who need a place to stay . . . HINT HINT for those of you that haven't come for a visit in a while!

Micah did a good job of laying out all the tile - and the following day Micah and Sam grouted and cleaned the floor.

Sam's Home

Fun Facts about Sam

• Birth date: July 2nd
• Age: 17 years old
• Junior at Syracuse High School
  
• Hometown: Vernal, Utah
• Favorite Sport: Football
• Favorite Color: Blue
• Favorite Movie: Stardust
• Favorite Book: Breaking Dawn
• Hobbies: Hanging out with family and friends, going to the movies, swimming, football and working out.
• Favorite Food: Seafood Alfredo, Sushi, and Artichoke & Spinach dip
• Favorite Holiday: Christmas
• Least Favorite food: Onions and Jambalaya
  
• Favorite Season: Autumn/Fall
  
• Favorite Subject in School: PE, Science and History
• Favorite TV Channel: History, Military and Disney Channel
• Favorite TV Show: Monster Qwest, NCIS, and Nurto