Wilcox World

Zach's Trumpet Solo

2012-01-02T23:12:00.000-08:00

Zach is in his 1st year of band, and is really enjoying his trumpet.

He auditioned for a solo at the 'Winter' Concert and got it.

What a handsome hornblower.

Tarta de Manzana Argentina

2011-11-22T12:14:00.000-08:00

This was my favorite cake growing up. It is a mix between cake an a tart. I used to beg my mom to make it weekly. Well, she didn't make it weekly. You all know my mom is not into sweets. She focuses more on savory dishes. She always taught us to eat healthy and made everything from scratch. But on special occasion, we'd get this apple cake. It's amazing!

2nd Congressional Congress

2011-11-09T12:41:00.000-08:00

Isn't she adorable? Maddie is LOVING her history class. She is in an Honors History Class and the teacher is very hands on and has such great projects for the kids. A few weeks ago the kids had to dress up and participated in the continental congress. They each had parts to memorize and naturally, Maddie got into it! She is my little actress!

Downey High Waterpolo

2011-11-09T12:34:00.000-08:00

Wesley has had an amzing season! He has really grown to immensely love the sport. He has really developed his skills and endurance. The coaches work these kids so hard! Some days he is in the water 4-5 hours! I know, it's crazy! Wesley played both on JV and Frosh-Soph. He is becoming more aggressive in the water and has quite an arm. He has scored several goals and plays with a group of really great kids.

I have been so impressed with the program at Downey. They run a tight ship and the kids work so well together. They have such comraderie between them and it shows. Last week was their last game. Unfortunately, they lost, so they will not be heading to CIF. Varsity is doing well and qualified for CIF. The pictures are from the Downey/Warren game, which is the rival high school here in Downey. Warren plays very dirty and even punched one of our players. I was so impressed that our team stayed calm and stayed out of trouble. It was a fabulous victory for DHS that night. I don't usually scream at the games, but I almost lost my voice that night.

Trunk or Treat

2011-11-09T12:21:00.000-08:00

We all had a great time at Trunk or Treat. Carina was such a beautiful peacock. Can you believe that's Zach? Scary! He was Darth Maul in case you're not a Star Wars fan. Maddie was Modest Princess Jasmine and you better guess what Wesley was.

First Day of School

2011-11-09T12:13:00.000-08:00

Aren't they cute? I love those two! Carina started third grade and Zach started 6th grade. I can hardly beielve he's in middle school! I forgot pictures of Maddie and Wes. There will be other pictures coming up soon.

A Great Way to end the Summer

2011-10-24T23:00:00.001-07:00

We had an awesome time at Disneyland! We took Abuela with us too. Most of us hadn't been in years. Last time we went Carina was 2 or 3 so it was like experiencing it for the first time for her. It was so much fun!

I Am The King

2011-10-24T23:00:00.000-07:00

Fun Rides

2011-10-24T22:46:00.000-07:00

The rides are always so fun! One of Abuela's favorite was Buzz Light Year. She and Zach competed for points and I believe she won. But her personal favorite was Indiana Jones. I can't believe we even got her to go on it. The new Little Mermaid ride was pretty cute at California Adventure.

Princesses and Mary

2011-10-24T22:38:00.000-07:00

My two princesses with Snow White. Aren't they all beautiful? My personal favorite is Mary Poppins. She is so graceful and poised. Her dress is amazing!

Carina's baptism

2011-09-26T22:59:00.000-07:00

Our baby was baptized last April. Our last one to be baptized. We are so pleased with her decision to be baptized. She is such a blessing to our family and we love her so much. She is such a beautiful girl!

Sweet Girls

2011-09-26T10:45:00.000-07:00

Cousins make the best friends!

Simple?

2011-09-15T09:59:00.001-07:00

Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication. -Leonardo da Vinci

Friday night football

2011-09-02T21:13:00.000-07:00

So here I sit, cheering the Vikings on. Next week, Wesley starts school here. Twenty two years ago, I graduated from this school, and now we're back. Go Vikings!

Wilcox Christmas List 2011

2011-08-20T08:48:00.000-07:00

This	buys	This
Person	for	Person

Liz		Sallie
Andrea		Jenny
Sallie		Shelly
Jenny		Jen
Shelly		Liz
Jen		Susanna
Susanna		Andrea
Willie		Rusty
Brent		Ray
Ray		Willie
David		Q
Q		Mike
Mike		Brent
Rusty		David
Aiden		Claire
Andrew		Chase
Scott		Wes
Claire		Kate
Warren		Aiden
Robin		Hanalei
Wes		Andrew
Maddie		Scott
Zach		Emily
Carina		Warren
Chase		Maddie
Emily		Zach
Kate		Alex
Sara		Aubrey
Boyd		Sara
Alex		Carina
Garret		Boyd
Hanalei		Robin
Aubrey		Garret
Paige		Mason
Waimea		Paige
Mason		Waimea

Archon: a monochromatic blast from the past

2011-08-01T14:14:00.001-07:00

Found this the other day as I was going through some boxes at mom and dad's. It's empty, which is probably for the best. Else I'd probably be on a quest to connect with someone who could install it on an old Apple][e - compatible.

I've Googled this game before, and found nothing about it. It was a fantastic game. Anyone remember it?

Burbank Dolphins

2011-08-01T09:56:00.000-07:00

Maddie's involved in a summer league for the third straight year. She is having so much fun this year because there are a few more girls on the team than in the past. She is enjoying going to practice every day and to games. Two weeks ago they played in Pasadena, They won their first game and the other team forfeited the next game out of a lack of players but they still played with some of our team members just for fun. I love to see her in the water. She is fierce and competitive. She gives those boys a run for their money. Way to go Maddie!

Farewell Dinner with friends

2011-08-01T09:40:00.000-07:00

I love all these women and will miss being in the ward with them. They are all so talented and spiritual and beautiful. Living in Burbank has been a great blessing for me. I feel like I have really grown spiritually and have been humbled and reminded of the things that matter most in life. I am so grateful for the gospel and for all the people we've met here.

The food was delicious and the desserts were unreal! Maureen is so awesome for throwing this together. I will miss you all!

Olive and Thyme decor

2011-08-01T09:35:00.000-07:00

Everywhere you looked it was gorgeous at Olive and Thyme. I love the French Farmhouse Industrial look. It's so relaxed and pretty. I love taking antiques and using them in unexpected places. The second and third pic go together. Console table with antique mirror leaning on top of it. I'd love that in my house.

Dream Bathroom

2011-08-01T09:31:00.000-07:00

I almost missed the gorgeous bathroom. Good thing I had to go. I love the floor and the dresser is gorgeous. Love the chippy paint!

Yosemite

2011-07-26T12:41:00.000-07:00

On our last day of our vacation we went to Yosemite. This was our second time going but we are still in awe of its grandeur and beauty. We are so grateful that Heavenly Father created this earth for us to enjoy. Zach was so brave to swim in the freezing cold river! Go Zachary!

Wilcox Bass Lake reunion

2011-07-26T12:30:00.000-07:00

This is our front yard and back yard. The kids were entertained just walking out the door. The boys played basketball every night until after 9pm. The geese loved coming and getting fed but also left messes behind so we were asked not to encourage them. It's difficult when they are so beautiful and friendly.

Little kid hike

2011-07-26T12:29:00.000-07:00

One of the mornings we took the little kids on a really fun hike on the other side of the lake. The view was amazing and the trees had crazy amounts of moss(lichen) all over them. The kids had fun climbling and exploring.

Minute to Win it

2011-07-26T12:28:00.000-07:00

This was such a fun game. Thank you to the Washington Wilcox family for being in charge of it!

2011-07-26T12:25:00.000-07:00

There were many fun activites during the day such as volleyball, swimmimg, boob tubing, eating, and just hanging out together.

Hike to the Pools

2011-07-26T12:13:00.000-07:00

Well as you can see the river was raging and we couldn't swim in the pools when we got to the top. You couldn't even see the pools it was so swift. But we still had a fun hike and enjoyed the beauty around us and enjoyed each other.

Family Hike

2011-07-26T12:05:00.000-07:00

A flower for Mom

Lunch with cousins

Mason!!!!!!!!!!

Boating, Skits, and Binkies

2011-07-26T11:57:00.000-07:00

We had Family home Evening at the Ramada with a spiritual thought from Grandpa and then each family put on a skit. We laughed and laughed! Everyone did awesome, especially grandma and grandpa. Boating was so much fun!

Fun in the Sun

2011-07-26T11:50:00.000-07:00

Everyone had fun at the beach. The weather was gorgeous and every age was entertained.

Zach is 11! My middle schooler!

2011-07-23T23:44:00.000-07:00

Zach had his buddies over too. They had a water balloon fight, a nerf gun fight, played soccer, and the Wii. Zach's cake fell apart on me. It was just such a hot day! It was still yummy though and the kids had a blast. Zach got a new soccer ball and some other fun gifts. He also got a new goal from grandma to practice on. He loves it! Happy birthday Zachary!

Wes is 15!

2011-07-23T23:39:00.000-07:00

Wes had his 15th b-day party and had a couple of buddies over for pizza and games and of course his annual cookie ice cream cake. Third year in a row! They had a great time!

Pasta anyone?

2011-07-23T23:35:00.000-07:00

We made homemade pasta a few nights ago and it turned out delicious! It literally has been years since we/ve done it. I never imagined it would bring so much pleasure, but the kids loved it! We made the dough and let it rise while Maddie was at water polo. Then we got home and got to work. Yes, we ate dinner at 8pm, but it was so worth it! I love summer!

Los Angeles Temple

2011-07-09T13:29:00.000-07:00

This is a very special temple for me anyway, but it just keeps finding new ways to be even more special.

Pictured: Wesley and Marshall

Wilshire Chapel

2011-07-09T13:21:00.000-07:00

Wesley and the other youth in the stake are having youth conference this week, spending lots of time at the temple, visitors center, and this building which is on temple grounds.

At Home with the kids

2011-06-14T14:21:00.000-07:00

Summer is here and we are still adjusting and trying to find creative things to do. I have come up with something that is helping get things done. Every morning the kids have to do a few things before tv, Wii, friends, any kind of playing, having a friend over, etc.
#1 make your bed and keep your room picked up.
#2 eat breakfast and clean it up.
#3 Do two jobs for mom.

These jobs have helped our family declutter our kitchen cabinets, laundry cabinets, bookshelves, bedroom closets and even pack up some stuff.
It's not a perfect plan. There is some complaining going on. Some days are better than others. But we're trying. We have much to do to get ready for our move in August. We will be living at my in-laws house while they are on their mission. Big changes for our family. Hard, but good changes. We are very blessed to have this opportunity.

Spring Concert "Turn up the Volume"

2011-05-27T18:12:00.000-07:00

We attended Maddie's concert a couple of weeks ago and were impressed with the band. It's amazing to compare the band now to the band at the winter concert. Maddie is learning so much and loves band, her teachers, and the great friends she has made. Maddie's favorite piece was a medley of the best of Queen, which included "We will rock you," "We are the Champions," and "Another one bites the Dust." She is such a musical girl! Just like her dad! We love our sweet girl and are so proud of her!

School's Out!

2011-05-26T15:57:00.000-07:00

Today was the kids last day of school. Hooray! Can you believe we are out so early? We did start early in August though. The kids had a terrific school year and now it's time for a little R&R.

What's in store for summer? Lots! The beach of course, waterpolo practices and games, Girls Camp, Boy Scout High Adventure, family camping trips, a Wilcox family reunion, hanging out with friends, picnics, being a little lazy, staying up late, and just having fun!

Our musician

2011-05-25T17:53:00.000-07:00

Monday night was John Muir Middle School's band picnic. They had a jumping castle, pizza, treats, and awards. Maddie and her buddy Abbie. Both are so talented. This is Maddie's second year in band. This year she was in Concert Band and she enjoyed every minute of it. (except when her teacher was out on maternity leave) Maddie is still enjoying the french horn and learning so much every day. Maddie received the "Director's Award" for always encouraging the class to press on, for keeping order, and always following through. We are so proud of Maddie!

5th Grade Promotion

2011-05-25T17:34:00.000-07:00

This week is pretty much dedicated to Zach. He's been so busy! This morning was promotion. Isn't he so handsome? Here he is with the Three Musketeers(that's what his teacher calls them) Zach, Braxton, and Hakob are always together. They emcourage each other and cheer each other on. They are such cute boys! The 5th graders sang some songs for us and some of the kids(essay winners) spoke to us. Hakob was one of those winners. I can hardly believe my little boy is a middle schooler now. Wow! Congrats Zach!

Promotion

2011-05-25T17:25:00.000-07:00

Zach and Braxton took pics of each other. Granma came to share Zach's special day. Zachary and his teacher, Mrs. Almer.

Arrow of Light

2011-05-25T16:53:00.000-07:00

Last night Zachary received his "Arrow of Light." It is the highest award that a cub scout can earn. The Arrow of Light patch and the Religious Knot are the only patches that carry with them to their scout uniform. Zachary has had the most unbelievable scout leaders I have ever met. I am not joking. They are amazing! Zach has learned so much. A few weeks ago, they changed a tire on his leaders truck, they have built catapults, performed kitchen science experiements, drawn silhouttes, gone on hikes, built a bookshelf, and on and on. It was a very special night. Zachary and Ethan both received the awars and Braxton, Zach, And Ethan all bridged to 11-year old scouts. Hooray! Congratulations to all of them!

5th Grade Field Day

2011-05-25T16:41:00.000-07:00

Told you it's been busy for Zach. Yesterday was field day. The kids had a blast with all their activities. They had this awesome waterslide! Pizza, cookies, arts and crafts, handball, football, and just hanging out with friends. So fun!

Miller Awards

2011-05-25T16:36:00.000-07:00

Carina had a fabulous 2nd grade year. She is an amazing reader and quite the writer and poet. She also received an "Academic Achievement" award for having all "3's and 4's" on her report cards and the "Citizenship" award for being a great citizen and having all E's on her report cards. We are so proud of Carina!

Awards

2011-05-25T16:33:00.000-07:00

Zachary is having a super busy week. Zach has had an awesome 5th grade year. Some things were tough, like math and essays, but he did great! He worked hard and was rewarded with an "Academic Achievement" and "Citizenship" awards. He received all 3's and 4's and all E's in citizenship. What a cutie!

Volunteer Recognition

2011-05-25T16:24:00.000-07:00

Principal, PTA board, and other moms and dads

My friend Paulette and I

Carol and I
( I know you guys always hear about Marshall, Wesley's buddy. This is his mom. She is queen of volunteers)

Every year the school has a recognition breakfast for the school volunteers. Its mainly PTA and a bunch of other moms and dads who work in the classroom. I never go to it. This year I thought, I should really go. I am so glad I went. After the breakfast the entire school gathers in the quad for a flag assembly and all the volunteers are cheered on by the kids. It is so sweet! I loved being there and I enjoyed being with all those awesome moms who dedicate so much time to the school and to their kids. (way more time than I ever do)

Miller Dance Festival

2011-05-25T16:12:00.000-07:00

This is my favorite event at Miller every year. The entire school puts on a dance festival. The kids start practicing in March for it and every grade performs a different song. Carina performed "Jump, Jive, and Wail" and Zachary performed "Say Hey." I love to see all the kids do their little dance! They put on an amazing show!

A little bit of History

2011-05-16T00:26:00.000-07:00

Carina just went to the Natural History museum in LA with her class. I chaperoned of course. I have gone on so many fieldtrips this year. One of the perks and blessings of staying home. I love this place! The kids loved it and couldn't get enough! They have added so many new exhibits lately and the discovery center was so fun! Well, school's almost out. It's been a great 2nd grade year for CArina. She is a strong reader and a super creative writer and poet. Only two weeks left!

New Family Photos

2011-05-01T22:14:00.000-07:00

The entire Wilcox family got together at Thanksgiving and took photos. We took a big one with everyone in it and we also took individual family photos. It's crazy because as I look at these I feel our kids already look older than they did here. It only took me 6 months to post these. Better late than never.

Hooray Carina is 8!

2011-05-01T22:05:00.000-07:00

Carina had a little party for her 8th birthday. It was a bird party. She got some fun gifts and enjoyed her time with her friends. They made bird feeders and hung them from our tree in the front yard. She especially loved her pillow pet from Grandma and of course more Littlest Pet Shop animals.

We are so excited for this special birthday. Soon Carina will be baptized!

The Getty Museum

2011-04-19T22:31:00.000-07:00

Carina's class went to the Getty. I got to be a chaperone and help out with a couple of the exhibits. It is so gorgeous up there! The view of the ocean(SAnta Monica and Malibu) is amazing. Carina is learning so much about the arts. Her school really focuses on the great painters and artists. They have done really cool art projects.

Big Bear 2011

2011-04-19T22:17:00.000-07:00

This was our third year going to Big Bear with cousins and Grandma and Grandpa. Again, we had tons of snow. I think the most we've had in three years. It snowed 14 inches one night and 12" two days later. Everone had a blast. This year we had Mike and Jen come too. We all loved being there. Sledding with cousins is the best!

WEEEEEEEEEEEEE!!!!!!!!!!!!

2011-04-19T22:15:00.000-07:00

This was the best day. WE literally were out there for hours! We kept finding better and better spots.

Snow in Burbank

2011-03-01T09:52:00.000-08:00

Wish I had taken some photos because i know you won't believe it. But yes, it snowed in Burbank on Saturday afternoon. Lawns were white and families were outside playing and talking to neighbors. I know, highly unusual L.A. behavior. It was lovely! I took the kids up the hill to the golf course where there were about 3 inches of snow. So fun!!!

Stockings at Grandma and Grandpa's

2011-01-06T12:15:00.000-08:00

I almost forgot to include our early Christmas. The whole Wilcox clan got together for Thanksgiving. It was a blast! Everyone had fun(in spite of all the throwing up that was going on daily) yuk!! We did stockings and our annual gift exchange. Maddie crocheted this blanket for Robin. I think she likes it! The kids were all happy to get silly bands. We took family pics, went to the zoo, the car show, hung out, played, talked, sang, ate. Let's not forget that one. WE ate lots!! So glad everyone could make it.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year

2011-01-06T12:03:00.000-08:00

We hope you all had a wonderful Christmas. We spent Christmas day here at home. It was very sweet and peaceful. Santa brought some scooters and Maddie got roller blades from Grandma we went on a long walk and the kids rode their scooters and Maddie learned to skate. Grandma and Grandpa came to see us and we had a yummy dinner with them. Christmas Eve was spent at the Gagliardi's with cousins and Abuela. We feel so blessed to be around family, especially at Christmas. We are so grateful for our bounteous blessings and we are especially grateful to celebrate the birth of our Savior. We love you all and wish you the happiest 2011.

Big Night for Zach

2011-01-06T11:56:00.000-08:00

In December Zachary earned his Webelos badge and his religious knot. It was a special night for Zachary. He gave me the mother's pin and received his religious knot award from our Bishop. Zachary has been working hard on his requirements and has made some pretty cool wood projects lately. One boy turned eleven and received his Arrow of Light and 4 other boys also received their Webelos badge. Zachary has outstanding leaders. They go above and beyond their duties. Sister Kristofferson is awesome. She emails us weekly and we are always informed of what's coming up. Their son has been home from college for a little while and comes to help weekly. They are truly dedicated and we are so grateful for them.

Big Fat Argentine Birthday

2011-01-03T08:32:00.000-08:00

Andrea's mom put together this delicious cake for my sweetie, complete with a layer of dulce de leche, and, of course, some foliage as a garnish!

How old are you now, Andrea?

Carina's latest haiku

2010-12-19T16:12:00.000-08:00

Ocean waves roll in
Foam against the sandy shore
Then slide back to sea

(this is my personal favorite of hers)

Gingerbread Man

2010-12-13T20:04:00.000-08:00

A fun activity/dessert with the missionaries.

Got milk?

Forest Lawn Christmas Party

2010-12-10T12:47:00.000-08:00

The lobby of Hall of Liberty

Los Angeles Temple visitors' center

2010-12-09T22:02:00.001-08:00

Semi-lousy pic but we had some fun on the temple grounds with Diego and Jennifer and family seeing the pretty lights.

The new visitors' center is amazing, on par with the state-of-the-art centers found in Salt Lake and Mesa. Really neat.

Carina's ornaments

2010-12-09T21:53:00.001-08:00

Carina has been on a bit of a poetic streak lately. Andrea found these ornaments hanging on the tree tonight.

Ever since her unit on poetry, especially Haiku, she has been writing some of the cutest things. She's always enjoyed writing, but it seems that her intro to poetry has opened her eyes to the realization that she can be completely free to let her imagination run wild.

Nachooooooooooooooo!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2010-12-05T19:04:00.000-08:00

Wesley will win 200 pesos if he wins his wrestling match.

Tea Time Ladies!

2010-12-01T11:27:00.001-08:00

Carina and Maddie set up a tea party for their aunts and baby cousins. They were all so cute together! They had hot chocolate and the babies had fun cutting up their own bananas.

My new credenza

2010-12-01T11:17:00.000-08:00

Since moving everything around in the family room, the big wall has appeared so bare. What's a girl to do, but find a credenza in the alley. Everything I find usually needs repair of some kind and for sure paint. But not this piece. Isn't it awesome? It's so Anthro! I love the detailing along the drawers and bottom. It will now house our art supplies and other office things.

Zach teaches a class

2010-12-01T11:01:00.000-08:00

"Paint only four popsicle sticks red"

"You need 9 popsicle sticks altogether"

"use the blue to make a rectangle to draw your stars onto."

Zachary taught the kids at Pack Meeting how to make an American flag out of popsicle sticks. He did this to finish up his requirements for his religious knot from his Faith in God book. He will be receiving it in December along with his Webelos badge. Zachary is enjoying Webelos and has an amazing husband and wife team as leaders. They do such great projects every week. Great job Zach!

Awards and Rewards

2010-12-01T10:50:00.000-08:00

Zach stopped biting his fingernails
He also received the
Academic Achievement award

Carina received the academic achievement award and the Citizenship award for all "E's"

They have both been working hard in school and at home. Zachary has come a very long way with his fingernails. What's a mom to do when nothing else works? Offer legos as a reward. Hey, it worked!

Sacagawea comes to LA

2010-12-01T09:24:00.000-08:00

I got to play Sacagawea for the second time at Miller Elementary. It is part of a Time Travelers program the PTA sponsors twice a year where actors portray different historical figures. They have one in the fall and in the spring with different characters. I had to memorize a script and go to 6 different classes and talk to the kids and answer questions about Sacagawea. I had so much fun being with all those little kids. I love their enthusiasm! They are all so sweet! I am so grateful for early American explorers like Lewis and Clark and Sacagawea. How amazing it must have been to discover such great beauty that surrounds us in our country. I am also grateful that my life is amazingly easier than theirs ever was. They endured such hardships! Wow!

Our Family's Christmas List

2010-11-21T17:03:00.000-08:00

I'm mostly posting this here so we can have a place for us to keep track of it.

Inspired by the simple yet thoughtful gifts exchanged in the Laura Ingalls home (Little House,) each year we make a small gift for each other.

this person . . . makes for . . . this person

Andrea . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Wes
Willie . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Madeline
Wesley . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Willie
Madeline . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Carina
Zachary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Andrea
Carina . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Zach

Maddie's Fall Concert

2010-11-04T10:02:00.000-07:00

Last night was Maddie's Fall Concert. This year Maddie is in Concert Band, which is the 7th grade band. They played three pieces and sounded awesome! Maddie looked so pretty in her curls and so grown up. She loves playing the french horn and especially loves her teacher, Mrs. Snell. She is her pretty much her idol. Mrs. Snell is expecting a baby next month but will be back in January. I am so grateful that Maddie could be involved in the music program at John Muir. Maddie blesses our lives with her music and her talents. We love her so much!

We were so happy that grandma and grandpa could be at the concert with us!

Zaire

2010-11-01T10:48:00.000-07:00

Zaire is Maddie's bird. That crazy bird loves to hang out in the strangest places. Some of her favorites are the doll house, the top of the laptop, and also my kitchen window. She loves to look out the window at the trees. I'm sure she just wishes she could be there. About 30 minutes ago I came down to the family room to put away some costumes and when I turned around, there she was. I almost stepped on her. I have no idea how she got out of the cage, but she's a sneaky one. Good thing I grabbed her before Strudel did. Yikes! That would have been ugly!!!!

Carina the Peacebuilder

2010-10-04T11:41:00.000-07:00

Carina was the peacebuilder for the month of September. It was a total surprise. She had no idea it was gonna be her. She was pretty excited, but a little shy at the same time. We love our sweet girl. The character trait for September was responsiblity. She is doing really well in second grade and is enjoying her new friends and loves to read and draw. The other little girl is one of Carina's best friends. She is a sweetie too!

FHE Journal Entry

2010-09-20T20:25:00.000-07:00

Tonight for Family Home Evening, Andrea taught a lesson on journal-writing. She suggested we make a journal entry about the scripture in Mosiah, chapter two, verse 17.

King Benjamin is delivering his address to the saints who have gathered to the temple to hear his words. He says:

And behold, I tell you these things that ye may learn wisdom; that ye may learn that when ye are in the service of your fellow beings ye are only in the service of your God.

I've always felt like service is so key to the gospel of Jesus Christ. It's what he did during his short ministry. When I serve others, I feel good, and I'm helping someone who needs the help. Both are edified.

I'm thankful for opportunities to serve. The other week in church, during a lesson, our instructor was illustrating how key and how central home teaching is to the elders quorum. Home teaching is really about service, but as we listed the other church-ey duties of the elders quorum, we listed other functions of the quorum, and of the priesthood in general: setting up chairs, helping people move.

In a related vein, I'm reminded of something I was taught by a member of our stake presidency in Provo. He said that home teaching most closely resembles that which the Savior did during his earthly ministry. I have a testimony that this is true, and that when we serve our fellow man, we serve our God. We do the work he sent us to do; we do the things Jesus would do if he were here.

Furniture everywhere I go

2010-09-05T23:09:00.000-07:00

The kids joke that I have eagle eyes for furniture on the side of the road. But can you explain this one? I found this at Carpenteria Beach last month. It looks like it could be the cover of an album. Don't you think? I have found some pretty cool things since moving to California.
Just in case you're wondering, I didn't bring it home.

Pet Shop Paradise

2010-09-05T22:56:00.000-07:00

Carina's latest habitat creation. The base is homemade playdough. The plants, trees, and bamboo fence are all from a bush in the front yard. The tarp is with dad's help. Check out the fire! Carina is always so creative. She has so much fun creating different habitats for her pet shops.

First day of School

2010-09-05T22:48:00.000-07:00

Carina the 2nd grader, Zachary the big 5th grader, and Maddie the 7th grader. I forgot to take Wesley's picture. I know, it's terrible. I got so caught up in this whole high school business and getting him there super early, that I forgot to snap a photo. I'll get a picture of him next week. He's got his first water polo match.
We've been in school three weeks now and things are going well. Everyone likes their teachers. The kids are all making new friends. Maddie has started up with the french horn again and seminary is in session. We are super busy and everyone is happy. Mom gets to do laundry and go on errands and dad is at work making it all possible.

More fun Beachcombing

2010-09-05T22:37:00.000-07:00

The crabs were huge and they were everywhere. Zach and Scott were fascinated by the tar, especially since we told them not to touch it, which they did of course.

Chariots of Fire Cousins

2010-09-05T22:33:00.000-07:00

There were other amazing things we got to experience as well. Lots of running and frolic, sea lions perched on the beach, and tar beach. Isn't this a cool bridge?

Carpenteria Beach

2010-09-05T22:29:00.000-07:00

For me, this was my favorite day of this whole summer. We visited the Lanes overnight at the beach house they rented. We woke up and went to the beach at 8 ish for low tide. It was so foggy and cool and misty when we got there. It felt wonderful! We walked to the tide pools and found tons of crabs and other sea life. The kids found so many interesting shellfish, rocks, and sticks, all sorts of things they wanted to bring home. Aunt Liz brought a picnic basket and we filled it to the brim. Is that legal? Oh well, it was amazing! Magical! The wind, the smell, the fog, the beauty of the ocean and all Heavenly Father has to offer for our enjoyment. I always feel of his hand in the creation when I am at the beach.

The Annual Lake Webb Trip

2010-09-05T22:18:00.000-07:00

Everyone really enjoyed themselves this year again. Grandpa always has the latest gadgets and this year's big hit was the three man. The kids loved it because they could be together and have fun with their cousins. Even Robin had fun. What a chunk!

Weeping Rock and Court of the Patriarchs

2010-09-05T22:04:00.000-07:00

On the last morning Willie and Maddie got up early and took off to a couple more sites. Weeping rock was refreshing and cool and the Patriarchs are immense! The three mountains are named Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.

Downhill

2010-09-05T22:00:00.000-07:00

Gorgeous everywhere we went. The kids were amazing! Such troopers! It was a very long and streneous hike and over 110 degrees by the time we finished. It's a 5.5 mile roundtrip hike.All we could think about was jumping in the river. We finally did after we got back to camp and it felt amazing!

Refrigerator Canyon

2010-09-05T21:54:00.000-07:00

I think this was my favorite area of this hike. Maybe because of the relief from the sun. Actually, it was because of the greenery found along the canyon. That greenery set against the red rock and the canyon carving its way through this mountain is simply spectacular. We found such cool formations and caves and coutouts. They were so fun to crawl into and relax.

Only for the Bravest!

2010-09-05T21:46:00.000-07:00

We had decided we would only take the kids to the lookout. Willie really wanted to go to the top, to Angel's Landing, but I wasn't budging. When we got to the lookout, I looked at all the people continuing the ascent of the last half mile and my boys giving me puppy dog eyes and I thought, "it doesn't look too dangerous. So I decided to let them go. I later regretted it and prayed for them several times. When they got back an hour later, Zach said, "That was the best hike Ive ever been on in my life." He was so excited and proud of himself and so was Wes. We gave them the talk before the hike and told them, "No funny business, this is a hike to take seriously. Follow directions, stay on the trail, etc." The tree boys loved it. As far as the girls go, well, we decided to stay behind and take a break and enjoy all the chipmunks and the panorama.

Willie said it was pretty amazing up there! What a view! Now it's time to head back. Hot!!!

Zion's Hike

2010-09-05T21:35:00.000-07:00

We never finished putting up our pictures of this day. On our way to Scout's Lookout we had some relief from the sun at Refrigerator Canyon. Walter's Wiggles is tha name of this insane ramp. Wow! Talk about workout! You can see me struggling there. Everywhere we turned the views were incredible!

Wilcox Family Christmas List 2010

2010-09-03T07:49:00.001-07:00

This person buys for this person

Liz Sallie

Andrea Jen

Sallie Susanna

Jenny Shelly

Shelly Liz

Jen Andrea

Susanna Jenny

Willie Ray

Brent Mike

Ray Q

David Willie

Q Rusty

Mike Brent

Rusty David

Andrew Zach

Scott Boyd

Claire Wes

Warren Kate

Robin Maddie

Wes Scott

Maddie Robin

Zach Garrett

Carina Chase

Aiden Alex

Aubrey Emily

Chase Claire

Emily Carina

Kate Hanalei

Sara Andrew

Boyd Aiden

Alex Aubrey

Garrett Sara

Hanalei Warren

Source: Email from Sallie McArthur dated Fri, Sep 3, 2010 at 6:46 AM

Back to School

2010-08-24T09:21:00.000-07:00

We are in our second week of school. We have done well with time every day so far. It's getting pretty busy already. Wesley started early morning seminary yesterday. It starts at 5:50 am. After that he has time to come home for 40 minutes. Then we are off to school. This year we have three schools to take kids to. I feel so grateful to have worked out a carpool for Maddie. One of the moms we carpooled with last year has volunteered to take Maddie and bring her home every day. How lucky is that? Now I only have the high school and elementary school to go to every morning. It helps tons!

Wes is gone until 6:30pm because of Waterpolo practice. He made the J.V. team and is pretty excited. He is loving high school and has great teachers. He says they are so different than middle school teachers. They are so cool with the kids. He comes home so wiped out from practice. He says all he thinks about is food and sleep.
I'll post some first day of school pics later today.

Maddie is enjoying 7th grade and most of her teachers. Her Algebra teacher is comparable to Mrs Savage(Downey High) Know what I mean? Luckily, there is Mrs. Snell, her band teacher whom she adores. Maddie is playing the french horn again this year and is praying her teacher comes back from maternity leave.

Zachary is in 5th grade and has the awesomest, most sought after teacher in the school. I am so grateful. I have been praying for this. Hopefully she will inspire him and help him to like Math and English and prepare him for middle school. Zach is happy to have some friends in his class.

Carina is in 2nd grade and has a male teacher who is the nicest and most soft spoken man. I've heard tons of great things about him and kids say "he never yells" Love it! She has many friends from last year and is enjoying playing with her friends in the playground.

Blessings of the Gospel

2010-08-16T13:54:00.000-07:00

I am so thankful to have the priesthood in our home. Last night Willie gave the kids their annual "beginning of the school year " blessings. I love to listen to all the wonderful and inspired words. This year seemed especially focused on spititual things more than temporal. I know that they have so many challenges that they face each day. But it is so reassuring to know that we can always turn to Heavenly Father for help. When we feel alone, when we are the only one standing up for our beliefs, for our standards, He will always comfort us. I love the gospel of Jesus Christ. It is so simple and so beautiful. We just have to do our part by giving it our best and the Lord will make up what we lack.

100 Things

2010-08-14T23:17:00.000-07:00

We have way too much STUFF!
A few days ago Willie told me about an article he read about what makes people happy. The article spoke of a couple who sold their home and most of their belongings, including their cars, and now live in a 430 square foot apartment. Wow!! So cool!
I also read a blog called guynameddave.blogspot.com. He decided to start a "100 Things Challenge". He owns 100 things. These are his owns personal belongings. No shared items. His furniture, dishes, or other things he shares with his wife and kids don't count. Anyway, you should check it out. Very cool!

We have such an overabundance of "things" in this country. We are extremely blessed. We neglect to sit back and look around and realize how much we have. I am guilty myself. As most of you know we have really downsized since moving to California. We don't even own a home yet. Sometimes I wish a had more space or I miss my brand new fancy houses from Arizona, but the truth is, we don't need huge homes and more and more stuff to be happy. I still struggle with the fact that it is so expensive to live here, but overall our life is so good. We live close to grandparents and cousins, Willie has a stable job with a 12-minute commute(extremely rare in L.A.), our kids go to great schools and have made wonderful friends, and our ward building is one mile away. Pretty awesome!

I am now working on my "100 Things." It's not easy because I have many hobbies and like everyone else, I have lots of "stuff." The last few days I have filled up two laundry containers full of my clothes and I am getting rid of most of my scrapbookking supplies. I never thought that day would come, but the digital age has taken over. I blog way more than I scrapbook.

Like Dave says, this is about "stopping the habit of unnecessarily buying things that inevitably caused me to be stuck in stuff." I will break free of this American-style consumerism!

I challenge you to declutter your homes. It's such a good feeling! I still have everything that I need and can see the floor in my closet.

Nice panorama

2010-07-26T23:53:00.000-07:00

I liked this shot in particular, for a few reasons. I did not doctor the colors at all i this shot, and it does a pretty good job of capturing the stark contrast of shade and sun. I know, I know. Enough about the shade/sun business. But it can't be overstated what a difference it made to be in the shade!

I also like the shot for the contrast in colors, and the textures, and the majestic view of the canyon stretching off into the distance. This view is looking southward toward the mouth of the canyon a few miles further south. This shot is one of the last views of this side of the valley for quite a while. At this point, the trail heads into Refrigerator Canyon, and treats us to a different kind of scenery.

And I know I prolly ruined the shot by inserting the text on it, but I kept a copy of the pristine original here.

Shade at last

2010-07-26T23:37:00.000-07:00

As we approached the mountainside, the trail switched back and forth, and was carved right into the mountain in places.

Another big upgrade in our view.

To think that all the improvements to the trail had to first ascend the trail to that point makes one appreciate even more the amount of work that has gone into making this national park so nice. Here Maddie can be seen walking up a section of the trail that has been poured in concrete. You can see deer tracks in the concrete in some spots along the trail, and more frequently, the marks from horseshoes.
"I pity the mule who carried the concrete and the water up all that way!" -Mr T

Part way up to Scout's Lookout

2010-07-26T23:27:00.000-07:00

Here we are, still in the shade, and still smiling. Our destination looms in the background. The top of the prominent rock behind us is actually Angel's Landing, a climb too perilous for the likes of some in our group.

Here is a view looking back down at the valley bottom. As we climbed, the view improved. Pictures cannot do justice to how spectacular the views were from this trail.

As we went through the stretch of sunshine, every little spot of shade provide a welcome relief. We set goals to hike to the next shady spot, and then the next one . . .

and the next one, until we finally arrived at the part of the trail where we were sheltered by the massive mountain hovering over us.

Trail to Scout's Lookout

2010-07-26T23:18:00.000-07:00

On Wednesday morning, we headed up the 2-mile trail to Scout's Lookout, one of the valley's best vantage points overlooking the valley and river below. We had to start early o beat the heat. Off we go!

Too bad this river was only at the beginning of the hike when we were not dying from exposure to the heat!

In the beginning, we walked in the shade, had plenty of water, and spririts were high.

As we continued, we ascended the difficult trail in the unforgiving sun, and some of us started to lose a bit of our spunk.

Cooling Off

2010-07-26T22:50:00.000-07:00

Here we are, and we could be found daily, cooling off in the Virgin River.

We had lots of fun playing in the river, finding good deep swimming holes, rocks to jump from, and getting swept away in the swift current, down and through the mini-rapids.

We enjoyed the fun, and needed the refreshment and relief from the heat that only full immersion could bring.

The narrows

2010-07-24T21:33:00.000-07:00

Alas, we are very sad to report we did not take our camera with us as we hiked up the narrows. The road through Zion Canyon takes you alongside the Virgin River as far north as it can, until the Virgin River is confined by up to 800-foot cliffs on either side of the river, which is only 20-feet wide in places.

This area is called the narrows, and it was singularly beautiful.

This is someone else's picture, but it shows the sorta thing we saw and hiked through.

The hike is mostly in the water. There a small portions of the hike where you are able to hike along the banks of the river. Mostly though, we hiked through knee-high water on slippery rocks. It is slow-going, but really fun. Some places were deeper, forcing us to wade through waist-high water. And some of it was swift! We swam some, jumped off rocks some, and most of all just enjoyed the beauty of the scenery and this wonderful masterpiece that nature carved out of stone.

For me, it was the best thing we did during our time in Zion National Park.

Camping in Zion

2010-07-24T21:17:00.000-07:00

Carina collected walking sticks while we hiked around Zion. They doubled nicely as fire pokers, and even worked for roasting marshmallos.

Carina is shown here in front of our tent, where we spent three nights while in Zion Nation Park. The temperatures in Zion were thus:

At daybreak, the temp was around 80 degrees, and it cooled off a little more until about 8am, when it began its climb up the scale onece again. It hit 90 by 10am, and by 12 it was over 100 degrees. The high each day was between 110 and 113, and one day enjoyed an unusual pairing with 40% humidity. Bleh.

Just before the 9pm sunset, when we found ourselves preparing dinner, the weather had cooled down to the high 90s, and we went to bet at dark, around 10pm, to an outside temperature of 90+ degrees. Yech. We began the first night with our rain fly on, but that lasted for about 10 minutes. We tore that badboy off and finally began to enjoy a light breeze around midnight.

The wind cooled things off enough to sleep by then. And even thought the overnight temperatures seemed merciful by comparison, our nights were the most unpleasant part of the trip. During the days, we kept cool by playing in the water, drinking cold water, etc, and we were plenty distracted with lots of neat stuff to look at and climb and wonder at. But lying on top of the nylon sleeping bag, fairly stuck to it anywhere skin was bare, was pure misery.

If you've never seen Zion canyon, we encourage you to add it to your list of places to see before you die. But we would strongly discourage camping there in July.

And this deer was in our campsite a few times daily. Pretty tame dude. We could get within ten feet of her before she'd start to show any sign of being worried what we were doing.

EFY Girls

2010-07-24T20:57:00.000-07:00

When we picked up Wes and he showed us all his pictures, Maddie queried "Were there any guys at EFY?!'

Wes and some cute girl.

A couple of cute girls.

Some more cute girls.

And some more cute girls.

Wes' experience at EFY was fantastic. I think he learned some things about himself, and what things are really important. And, I think he enjoyed the company of his newfound female 'friends.'

EFY

2010-07-24T20:50:00.000-07:00

Wes really enjoyed Especially for Youth. Here he is pictured with his 'company' in front of the dorms at Heritage Halls.

The counselors were stellar, with Steve being a total stallion.

Wes met some great guys, this one from Upland. Conner and he really hit it off, especially since they are both water polo players.

And, of course, there was Marshall. The two had a great time, and discovered a few things together. Among other things, they learned that dances can be pretty sweet.

There is beauty all around

2010-07-24T20:36:00.000-07:00

Some shots of the sights downtown. Pictured here are the tabernacle and courthouse. It was a beautiful day!

Sunday Afternoon

2010-07-24T20:34:00.000-07:00

What to do on a Sunday afternoon? We had already gone to church, at our old ward in Provo. Hardly recognized a soul! But it was still fun to go back there. Wesley and Maddie were both blessed in that building. And I did get one update on one of the 11-year-old scouts I used to lead: he was getting married in the Los Angeles Temple in three days! And who says miracles don't happen anymore?

We decided to go for a walk around downtown Provo. When I say we, I mean Andrea and I. You can see here how popular the plan was with the kids.

We walked to Center and University to see the Tabernacle and the courthouse.

The old architecture is beautiful and stately.

Zach climbed a tree and catnapped.