The Gillespie Family News

WOW, So much to talk about...

2011-05-20T10:38:00.003-06:00

Wow, where has 2010 gone and where is 2011 going....I have so much going on that I have not blogged for a while.... Brad:Currently he is staying home with the girls, while he is on leave from the Police force. Hopefully soon will be returning. He is coaching Kaleigh and Emma's softball team, and they are loving it. Aly is keeping him very busy in the morning when its just her and daddy. They go to the dollar store, library and of course sit in the hot tub---but they do not splash. He is an awesome father and husband, he is staying positive with all the changes and trials we have had to over come over these past months. Brittney: Oh I am so busy as always, I am currently working for a company called Dura-Crete, they are the best. I have only been here since March and they have offered me so much. I have currently put school on hold. I am excited for the changes that are coming to our family. Kaleigh: Can you believe it, she will be 8 on the 26th of May. She will be baptized on June 4th. she is growing up to fast, she loves softball and has done a wonderful job, she wants to play up until she is out of college. Although she wanted to not be girly girl for her baptism she had her Nana make her a beautiful dress that makes her look so grown up. She is very smart and is having a blast in 2nd grade, she has learned french and Spanish this year. Emma: Wow she has come out of her shell, she is in kindergarten, and does a great job. She is still my little Cinderella but with an attitude. This year she decided to play softball and has been doing such a wonderful job, she sill dances and loves it. She is excelling in her reading and is starting to recognize how to spell so much fun. Alysia: She is still my firecracker, although she is getting way to smart. She has decided that she loves dance and she has just finished her t-ball season, she was the best hitter. But she needs to be taught that we dont "tackle" for third base. She is always keeping us laughing. She learned to ride her bike with out training wheels, but likes to ride her baby bike. I can not believe how much my family has grown and I am so thankful for them in my life.

Where did 2010 go?

2011-01-04T11:26:00.002-07:00

Wow, where did the year go....we have been so busy that I have not had time to blog very much, my goal for 2011 is to do it each month. We had a wonderful Holiday season, it was busy but fun! Brad: Has been very busy with work, the Holiday season kept him very busy although he had to work a lot he still made it to everything the girls had for school and dance. He is truely and amazing husband and father who works very hard to provide for his family. Britt: I finished my school to start the nursing program and I am enjoying my break away from school until April (although I am getting a little bored, you can only clean so much) I am looking forward to spending time volenteering in the girls classrooms. I have been blessed with all the great family and friends that have helped with getting through school. Kaleigh:She has been taking after school french and is loving it. She has learned to speak spanish and loves to try and have a conversation with friends. I can not believe that she turns 8 this year and will be baptized in May. Emma: Is doing good in Dance and School, she is currently being tested for speech in school and she thinks it is so cool that her speech teacher talks about her family. She is learning how to read and write better. She is so caring, every night she has to rock her 8 babies to sleep before she can go to bed. Aly: Oh she is still her little fire cracker self. She is attending preschool 3 days a week and loves it. She thinks she can do Kaleigh's math. She loves to torture the dog and her dad.

Halloween

2010-11-01T11:02:00.003-06:00

WOW, it has been a while since I have written, life has been so crazy. I am in my last semester of pre-classes, before applying for nursing program :) Brad has been working like crazy and is now on afternoons, although I never thought I would say it...but I hate this shift, I like him working graveyards. The girls are keeping us very busy with school, dance and there attitudes :) They enjoyed the 3 days of Halloween celebration's: Kaleigh and Emma both had school parade and parties, on Friday and Saturday we went to the trunk or treats....I will be so glad when the candy is gone! This year Kaleigh was Spider women, Emma was a pumpkin and Alysia was a cowgirl, her horse was name Sally. Thanks to Nana for making awesome costumes for us, we loved them.

Juvenile Diabetes Walk

2010-08-05T22:51:00.001-06:00

To All My Family and Friends Each year more than 13,000 childr en are diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes in the U.S. Diabetes is an autoimmune disease in which the body’s immune system attacks and destroys the insulin-producing cells of the pancreas. Unlike Type 2 Diabetes, Type 1 cannot be managed merely with diet, exercise, and oral medication. It strikes suddenly, making its victims dependent on injected insulin for life, and carries the constant threat of devastating complications. Insulin is not a cure for diabetes. It is merely life support until a cure can be found. We desperately want a cure! We hope you will help our family raise funds for the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF). JDRF is the world’s largest charitable funder of Type 1 Diabetes research, as well as an advocate for families. JDRF volunteers have been a great support to our family, and we decided to join in helping find a cure--not only for Jayden, but for the millions of other children who, through no fault of their own, nor their parents, fall victim to this lifelong disease. On May 5th 2009, Jayden Gillespie was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes. He spent days at Primary Children's Medical Center with his family as they learned how to count carbs and give insulin injections to manage this devastating disease for the rest of his life. We are amazed and inspired by his strength and courage as he deals with all that having Type 1 Diabetes entails. Jayden has a goal to raise $500.00 by the day of the walk, please help us help him and the millions of other children and their families affected by this complicated disease. We will be walking at Wheeler Farm on August 21th. We are one of the many people that thought type 1 diabetes could be controlled by insulin. But we have learned that insulin is merely life support for those with type 1 diabetes, it is NOT a cure. The good news, though, is that a cure for type 1 diabetes is within reach. We are writing to ask for your support because now more than ever, EACH of us can be a part of bringing about a cure. Each of us can make a real difference! We appreciate the opportunity if nothing more than to make you aware and educate you regarding the challenges faced by children and their families dealing with Type 1 diabetes. Together, we can make the cure a reality, We hope to see the day when Jayden no longer has to count carbs for everything he eats, prick his finger for blood sugar test after test and, is given innumerable insulin injections.We hope that he never sees the long term complications that come as a result of having this disease. By supporting the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation you can help us give him and so many others like him hope for that very future. Please visit my Walk Web page if you would like to donate online or see how close we are to reaching our personal goal: http://walk.jdrf.org/support.cfm?id=87723514 you can make checks payable to JDRF and the contributions will be given to the JDRF on the day of the walk. Thank You, The Gillespie Family

So much going on...

2010-08-02T16:05:00.005-06:00

Seriously, I have not written since April 29, well a lot has happended since then. Brad: He is still working graveyards as a cop, and still loving every minute of it. He is getting excited to spend almost all of August camping, and the hunting season is soon upon us. He has just built us an awesome deck to hang out on when he is off, and we have had a couple get togethers on the deck. During the Taylorsville Dayz, he got to be the "bad guy" for the K-9 demo, it was great. The girls loved watching him get attacked from Joe and Hutch! Brittney: I am still in school, I am in the middles of finals for the summer semester, I am hoping to pass all these class so I can finish up fall semester and apply for nursing program in December. Although, school has beed a challenge and stressful I have enjoyed it. I have met some awesome new friends. And not to mention a nice little get away when I go to class. Kaleigh: She turned 7 in May, she is growing up so fast. She enjoyed 1st grade and did awesome, she is now enjoying her summer break hanging out with friends and being a big helper. She will start second grade at the end of August and is so excited that her sister will be at school with her. She has taken the summer off of soft ball, but will soon be playing again with a league that is more advanced, she is so excited she can not hardley wait. Kaleigh participated in the school talent show, by playing the piano. (I have been teaching her a little bit) Emma: She turned 5 in July, she is so so so ready for kindergarten to start, of course after we go on the bowhunt. She has enjoyed her summer and has met some new friends in the neighborhood that she can have her own play dates with. She is still sassy as ever, and still our little cinderella, she loves to clean. She is such a caring and organized little girl, she might just be teachers pet. Emma and Aly had there dance recital in June and they did so good and both looked so beautiful. Aly: Oh where to start with her, she is still Aly. Keeping us very busy, has no fear and does not care what any one has to say. She will be 4 in september and is insisting that she is going to pre-school. I hopefully have gotten her into the program at my school. Her and Emma will be starting tumbling in the fall, they are both very excited. They have kept us so busy this summer... we have also spent some time up at the cabin that they have enjoyed!

Kaleigh's Softball

2010-04-29T14:54:00.004-06:00

Here is a couple of Kaleigh's hits form her games. She is doing so good, and having so much fun. Her goal is to play until she is a mom!

Almost Done....

2010-04-23T12:33:00.002-06:00

Wow this has been a long semister. It is almost to a close I am getting ready for finals this week and next, then on May 6th I will be done until May 17 when it all starts back up again. On top of a busy school schedule we have been going to softball games for Brad and Kaleigh, although Kaleigh's team has only played 2 games they are doing great. Yesterday she had an awesome hit, then she had an awesome catch and out at first, she was so excited she danced (a football touchdown dance). Aly and Emma are staying away from scissors, although they are TROUBLE together they are doing wonderful in dance and can not wait to start tumbling. Well I better get to studying the homework and controlling the noise in the house so Brad can get some sleep so he is well rested for his Monday at work....

Laugh? Cry? Mad?

2010-04-12T20:10:00.003-06:00

School has been so busy for me as the semister is coming to an end, Brad is now working graves (Fri-Mon, 8pm-6am). Well today was a day that I had to attend all three of my classes. I asked Brad if he wanted me to find someone to watch the girls while I was at school, he said "no" he will be fine. Well as he slept Aly had some fun, she gave her self a hair cut and the toy horse a hair cut. In her words "don't worry it will grow back, but right now I look fabulous".

Aly haircut she did by herself! The horse's new haircut! The fixed haircut!

We added another GIRL....

2010-03-31T15:05:00.004-06:00

Yes, I know what you are all thinking right now, but this time you are all wrong. I AM NOT PREGNANT. Yesterday we added a new little girl to our home, she is 2 and very cute. I broke down and let my family get a dog, she is a Chihuahua, and her name is Coco, she is so much fun and a very good little girl. The girls just love her and she like the rest of the girls already has her daddy's heart.

TO TO MUCH GOING ON.....

2010-03-06T20:58:00.002-07:00

There has been so much that has been happening since my last post, I am still in school and it has been keeping me very very busy. Brad has finished his one year probabtion with the police department,I can now go on a ride along with him to see what he does and deals with. The girls are growing up way to fast, Aly is still my little fire cracker and always keeping us laughing and on our toes. She tells everyone her birthday is on Saturday and she will be 16 and I bought her a car, oh how there little minds wonder. Emma is getting very very sassy, but still is very willing to help and do anything we ask her to do. She is counting down the days for the bowhunt, and then she will start Kindergarten, not sure what she is most happy about but pretty sure it is the bowhunt. Kaleigh has a boy at school that has a crush on her, she is not even home from school and he is already calling her. She is doing really well in school, that I don't have to go to SEP conference's (her teacher is only meeting with parents with bad kids---Kaleigh's words) Just the other night the girls were playing a game "pissed off bear" (made up from dad) and kaleigh was the bear and Aly was done playing so she punched her in the face and took out her front tooth, it was loose but i dont think it was ready to come out. After all the drama from the blood and crying,. Kaleigh thought Aly was the best sister ever for knocking out her tooth. I am so grateful for all the hard work my husband does and the joy my girls are to me. They are being so patient with me while I go through my schooling, if I stay on the course I am I will be done with my pre classes I need to start the nursing program, it has gone by so fast.

Crazy Life.....

2010-01-27T21:49:00.013-07:00

Wow, it has been awhile since I have updated my blog....life has been so crazy.I am so thankful for my family and friends, they have given me so much support and help while I have been going to school. I started school and am taking 3 classes at the campus and 2 online. (it will be worth it when I am done). Brad has changed his work schedule and now works 2pm-midnight Thursday ---Sunday.He just tried snowboarding and had alot of fun, but his neck is very sore. The girls have been growing up so fast, Kaleigh is enjoying school and has set a goal to read 100 books by time school is out. Although they are easy books that is a great goal--she is very smart. Emma is getting her little attitude, but yet still willing to help out and be momma, Aly oh Aly...she finished soccer and was so exctied she got a trophey of a soccer ball with arms and legs. She has now found a new (old) love....she decided she wants to dance again, so we are trying it again. A couple weeks ago my mom's friend was in town and her husband was team ropin' in South Jordan, we went down to watch, the girls has so much FUN. They got to sit on the horse, his name was Iceman,oh boy that has been the talk of the house. They keep talking about going up the their ranch to see the other animals, and Iceman will be so excited to see them. They loved see all the cowboys, cowboy-girls (in Alys' words) and the horses.

call me crazy....

2010-01-09T20:48:00.002-07:00

So Kaleigh and Emma now have there own blogs, if you would like to view they will be unblocked for a week after that all blogs that are from the Gillespie family will be by invite only. If you would like to continue to view please leave email. kaleigh's blog is kaleigh-softballgirl.blogspot.com emma's blog is emma-dancegirl.blogspot.com Love you all.

I am back

2010-01-08T00:31:00.002-07:00

I think..... I have completed my construction of our family blog. I am starting school (full time)Monday and Brad has another shift change starting on Saturday (new shift 2pm-midnight, Thurs-Sun.) My goal is to update every Sunday. We love all of you!

UNDER CONSTRUCTION

2010-01-06T23:21:00.001-07:00

I AM CURRENTLY CHANGING MY BLOG AROUND, PLEASE BE PATIENT.

LOVE,THE GILLESPIE'S

end of the year....

2010-01-04T17:25:00.000-07:00

I finished this semister of school with a 4.0. I was so excited, I start my next semister on January 11, I took on a lot and a little worried about it but will make it.( I have faith I will survive). If I stay on track and continue with the good grades I will be able to apply for the RN program on December 23, 2010.

We had a wonderful Christmas the girls had so much fun,and they got everything they wanted. Then New Year's Eve my mom and dad came for dinner and played Wii (santa's gift to the family). We taco soup and then everyone was alseep by 10 at the very latest. I celebrated by myself.

The next day we took the girls sledding, they had so much fun. Brad and Shane would not stop doubling up with the girls on there sleds they finally went and got tubes, well then the girls would not leave them alone. As many of you know Emma has a very soft heart, everything makes her cry. While sledding she tried to walk up the hill and kept slipping she was getting so upset, I was telling her its okay, she is doing very well. Next thing I heard was a 10-12 year old boy started yelling at me "hey, lady be nice to your kids", his father came and apologized to me, he is Austic and crying children just set him off.

I have been so grateful for the trials and fun/exciting events that have happened this year, and i can not wait to see what 2010 will bring our family. So far is has brought me a root canal and Brad was moved off graves ( he was upset---loves that shift) and will be working thursday-sunday until the middle of April. I am grateful for the love and support from my family and friends.

Emma's dance recital

2009-12-15T17:06:00.002-07:00

Emma did so good at her dance recital this year,She has enjoyed dance and is sad she is on christmas break from it. (sorry that there is so much movement on some part, I had kids climbing on me)

Shop with a Cop

2009-12-13T18:12:00.000-07:00

I was able to join Brad and the 100+officers,it was so much fun to see the childrens faces. Our kid was Jose, he was 9 and did not talk much about his home life. We had to talk him into spending the ALL the money they gave him. 18th Annual Shop With A Cop 2008 The wind had picked up and the clouds were piling up to the North as we waited in the early morning darkness outside the West Jordan K-Mart. A record snowfall had grounded Santa last year and with the impending storm, we were concerned. With eyes turned skyward we heard the whomp, whomp, whomping of a helicopter making its approach and we knew then that Santa was on his way. . . Very early on Saturday, December 13th the Little America downtown had seen the arrival of still sleepy children and their parents as they lined up to complete their registration and receive their official Shop With A Cop t-shirts. At this point parents kissed their kids good-bye, made sure they had their wish lists, and told them to have fun. Some nervous, some shy, the kids were ushered through the double doors and into the banquet room where they were met with an eye-popping array of donuts, muffins, and other breakfast goodies. Paired with their officers and introductions out of the way, kids and cops sat down and got to know each other. As tensions eased, the room filled with a cacophony of voices, punctuated now and again by the deep voice of an officer getting everyone’s attention so that Rita could make an announcement, or a sudden peal of laughter. The usual hi-jinks ensued as flashlights, handcuffs, etc. were inspected and tried out. Lists were checked and shopping strategies reviewed before the announcement was made that it was time to leave. Crumbs and chocolate moustaches were wiped from little faces and coats were donned as cops and kids made their way out to 5th South where the patrol cars were waiting. This year’s ‘caravan of cop cars’ made its way onto I-15 and traveled south to 9000 South, where they lit the lights and cranked the sirens as they turned west and headed to K-mart. They arrived just in time to meet Santa as the helicopter made a single pass before landing in the parking lot. Santa and Frosty disembarked to the roar of a cheering crowd and the whomp, whomp of the helicopter as it lifted off and headed back to base before the storm. The wind continued to blow and kids stood in awe while cops snapped pictures and Santa made his way inside, shaking hands dispensing hugs, and spreading laughter along the way. Once inside the doors, carts were readied, shopping lists unfolded, and the race began. Depending on their shopping strategy, cops and kids sprinted in all directions. Some hit the shoe aisle first, picking up boots, new sneakers, or even slippers, some headed for the coats and clothes, and more than a few headed to the toy aisles. Given the many choices available, some of the kids had a hard time deciding ― this is where negotiation skills came into play. We saw one officer working diligently to convince a little boy, who professed to being a regular card shark, that his money would probably be better spent somewhere other than on the poker set that would have used all his funds. As usual, you saw the boys in blue waiting patiently while their little pink divas browsed the Barbie aisle, or looked for just the right dress, holding each and every one up for approval. In addition, there was a little “nerf football” being played in the aisles, as well as some “bicycle testing” going on ― sheepish looks were exchanged when the “big boys” were caught in the act! What the heck, the day was all about having fun. Every year we get our hearts wrenched and the world put in perspective when these little shoppers want to use all of their funds to shop for others ― parents, siblings and even grand-parents. It often takes some serious convincing by the officers to get them to buy something for themselves. On a lighter note, every year we see some pretty strange items going into the carts. One year a little boy insisted that he had to buy some tapes for his grandma. The officer took the little boy to the electronics department and attempted to get him to choose a cassette tape, the child kept insisting that wasn’t what he wanted. Fit to be tied, they left the department. As they were walking down the stationary aisle the little boy cried out, “There they are. That’s them!” as he pointed to the scotch tape dispensers. Problem solved. One year a little boy went to great lengths to choose just the right frying pan, and this year it was toilet paper ― never did find out the story behind that! Once the carts had reached capacity they were wheeled to the check-out stands where K-Mart employees tallied up the booty. From the check-out stands they headed over to talk with Santa and get their pictures taken. Then it was on to the volunteers who wrapped their presents with colorful paper and decorated them with pretty ribbons. By now parents had begun to arrive to take charge of the little shoppers. There was plenty of handshaking and hugs for both cops and kids as they headed out the door and home.

Snow.....already

2009-11-28T00:12:00.001-07:00

When it snowed on Monday the girls were so excited they could not stand being inside. So at 630 at night they talked me into letting them going outside to play in it. They had so much fun, and can not wait for more snow to fall.

No more Turkey

2009-11-27T22:48:00.000-07:00

Happy Thanksgiving! We were able to visit both families, we first went to my dad's family. We had it at a church cause there is way to many of us. It was alot of fun and the kids had a blast playing with eachother. The older boys had a basketball game it was fun to watch. My cute parents dressed up in there clothes from trek. I love you all!

We then went to Brads parents, it was so fun to see everyone. It was a very eventful night. We then finished out the night with Brad going to work and I went shopping at Toys R Us and midnight---never again. Deals were great but would rather pay full price and sleep.

YAY

2009-11-21T20:12:00.000-07:00

After talking about her soccer game all week long and all day, she got there and was not very interested in playing. Shane, Tara, Gramps, Grandma and Grandpa were all there to watch her. She was not interested in playing much. We bribed her with a diet coke to play, it helped a little. So fourth quarter came up and everyone left. Well Aly decided she liked playing soccer, here is a movie of her playing.

Thanksgiving Feast

2009-11-19T17:32:00.000-07:00

Kaleigh had a singing program and then after they had a feast. The kids had a lot of fun, they had to chose between a pilgrim or a indian. Kaleigh choose to be an indian, actually a lot of kids did. Here is a song she sang that I thought was so cute.(sorry its sideways, dont know how to rotate) ]

Scoccer

2009-11-17T13:15:00.000-07:00

Aly has talked about playing scoccer, so we sign her up. She is very excited to go and play, we get there and she will not do anything unless I was with her. So out on the court she refuses to run and kick the ball. She informed me that she will play at her game Saturday. Can not wait to see if she really will, she is very good at controlling the ball.

Be-lated Happy Halloween

2009-11-04T22:18:00.000-07:00

We had a wonderful Hallloween, the girls had a blast trick or treating, but now I have a ton of candy that really is going to waste.

2009-10-31T10:09:00.001-06:00

Chinking

2009-10-21T14:56:00.000-06:00

We are currently finishing our cabin, and the girls are having so much fun when we go up there to do stuff, this last time we went up there was a huge dirt pile for them to play on. Boys did electrical and plumbing and me and mom did chinking (sealing inside to keep bugs out---hopefully)Then the girls wanted to come in and help, they were so much help. They can not wait to get it done so we can have more sleepovers there and stay up for days and days.

Soccer

2009-10-21T14:50:00.000-06:00

Our sweet Alysia has decided that she does not want to play dance anymore, she wants to play soccer. So yesterday Brad jumpped all over the idea and went and got her a ball, "special soccer shoes", and little tiny shin guards. She will start on November 12th indoors of course!! I was amazed at how good she was able to control the ball at age 3. Maybe we found her "busy" sport for her.

Softball and Dance

2009-09-29T15:25:00.000-06:00

The girls have started they yearly activities; Kaleigh started softball and is loving it, she had played outfield, second base and catcher (her favorite. She is learning the techniques of the game. She is a excellent hitter when she waits for the ball. She has games twice a week and practice on Saturdays. She has just informed us she will be playing for the rest of her life. Emma and Aly started dance Emma is in her 2nd year and still loving every minute of it. Aly is in her 1st year and loves it but yet hates it. Emma makes sure she is doing everything the right way. They dance twice a week Tuesday for ballet and Wednesday for tap. Aly was messing around ( I know hard to believe) in tap and I had to pull her out the other day, I asked her why, she stated "cause I don't like that teacher" Emma loves the teacher and has talked to Aly about it, and now Aly thinks she may like her. They both do a wonderful job.They are getting very excited for the recital in December.

2009-09-29T15:24:00.001-06:00

Weekend Fun

2009-09-21T13:36:00.000-06:00

This weekend I had my parents watch the girls, while me, Brad and some friends went to dinner at Bandit's Grill in Park City--my new favorite bbq place. Then we went up to our cabin, it was so much fun a little cold and rain hard and alot through out the night, which caused the roads to be very muddy, we had to wait for a bit for the roads to dry so we could get home. We played so many games and stayed up late, slept in. It was so nice to get way for the weekend, I am already planning another weekend to go and get away. Thanks Mom and Dad for watching the girls and for those who went with us.

My birthday around the corner

2009-09-09T13:17:00.000-06:00

Happy Birthday to Alysia, we finally got her to believe that today she turned 3. For the last week she has been telling everyone her birthday is around the corner. She was so excited to turn 3 she was able to start dance and to my surpise she listened and payed attention (for being 3). I am sure she will continue to keep us busy and laughing. We love you Alysia and Happy Birthday.

Little Mommy

2009-09-04T14:25:00.000-06:00

So Emma is my little mom and since I have started school (have first class at 7 am) she has been waking up while I am getting ready, I have tried to talk her into going back to sleep a couple of times, and she said to me that she can not go back to bed because she needs to make sure Kaleigh gets up and will get ready for when I get home she will not be late for school. She is always willing to help me with everything and has enjoyed kaleigh at school all day, I think it makes her feel big to help me around the house. She is always wanting to do dishes and clean...so if you ever need her I will lend her out. :)

Princess or Not??

2009-09-04T14:16:00.001-06:00

Alysia birthday is coming up on 9-9-2009 she has just learned to ride a 2 wheeler with training wheels (Emma's bike) so as she is riding the bike I asked her if that is what she wants for her birthday, she pause and said yea. I then asked what kind she would like she first stated Dora with Dora helmet, then she said well no cause I will get it mixed with Emma's. So then she says " I dont want a princess one cause I am not a princess" It took me by suprise, all I could do was laugh. So I took her to Walmart last night and she found a barbie one that in her words "will work" but I have to get a monkey helmet for her, cause she loves to be a monkey.

Boys and Friends already??

2009-09-04T14:09:00.000-06:00

So Kaleigh loves the first grade she is so smart and passing off 3 minute math test with no problems, reading and spelling like she has known this stuff forever. Last year she had a boy named Tyler in her class these two just love eachother. So this year they are in seperate classed but hang out at recess. She is in to walking or riding her bike to school (about 1.3 miles away), any ways last week we thought we would go and get her (me, Brad and the girls). As we were waiting at the sky walk she walked right pass us (to busy with friends) to noticed us. When she did noticed she just said "oh hi" and kept walking. When we finally caught up with her she and Tyler were walking together. We tried to get her to slow down and she wanted nothing to do with us, she wanted to walk with friends and Tyler. When we were almost to the car and they had to split there ways....Tyler asked for a hug..... Her dad, Shane and sisters love to tease her about Tyler. She is very sweet and loving but to young to not want her parents around.

School

2009-08-24T16:09:00.000-06:00

Today Kaleigh started first grade, she was so nervous. She called me when she got home from school and said she had to throw away her chips at lunch cause she ate to slow.

Fundraiser (Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation)

2009-08-12T16:52:00.000-06:00

To All My Family and Friends

Each year more than 13,000 children are diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes in the U.S. Diabetes is an autoimmune disease in which the body’s immune system attacks and destroys the insulin-producing cells of the pancreas. Unlike Type 2 Diabetes, Type 1 cannot be managed merely with diet, exercise, and oral medication. It strikes suddenly, making its victims dependent on injected insulin for life, and carries the constant threat of devastating complications. Insulin is not a cure for diabetes. It is merely life support until a cure can be found. We desperately want a cure!

We hope you will help our family raise funds for the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF). JDRF is the world’s largest charitable funder of Type 1 Diabetes research, as well as an advocate for families. JDRF volunteers have been a great support to our family, and we decided to join in helping find a cure--not only for Jayden, but for the millions of other children who, through no fault of their own, nor their parents, fall victim to this lifelong disease.

On May 5th of this year, Jayden Gillespie was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes. He spent days at Primary Children's Medical Center with his family as they learned how to count carbs and give insulin injections to manage this devastating disease for the rest of his life. I am amazed and inspired by his strength and courage as he deals with all that having Type 1 Diabetes entails. Jayden has a goal to raise $300.00 by the day of the walk, please help me help him and the millions of other children and their families affected by this complicated disease.

We will be walking at Wheeler Farm on August 29th.

I was one of the many people that thought type 1 diabetes could be controlled by insulin. But I have learned that insulin is merely life support for those with type 1 diabetes, it is NOT a cure.

The good news, though, is that a cure for type 1 diabetes is within reach. I'm writing to ask for your support because now more than ever, EACH of us can be a part of bringing about a cure. Each of us can make a real difference! I appreciate the opportunity if nothing more than to make you aware and educate you regarding the challenges faced by children and their families dealing with Type 1 diabetes.

Together, we can make the cure a reality, I hope to see the day when Jayden no longer has to count carbs for everything he eats, prick his finger for blood sugar test after test and, is given innumerable insulin injections. I hope that he never sees the long term complications that come as a result of having this disease. By supporting the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation you can help me give him and so many others like him hope for that very future.

Please visit my Walk Web page if you would like to donate online or see how close I am to reaching my personal goal: http://walk.jdrf.org/walker.cfm?id=87397799 You can make checks payable to JDRF and the contributions will be given to the JDRF on the day of the walk. Thank You, Debbie Gillespie (Grandmother) Brittney Gillespie (Aunt)

24th of July

2009-07-29T15:05:00.000-06:00

We have a tradition in our family that has been a tradition since my mom was a little girl. Going to the Dayz of 47 parade. It is so much fun, my cousin Levi, Brad and Shane slept out on the street to save our spots. The girls love to go and buy silly string to spray all over everybody. This year was a little different my parents were not there, they were enjoying trek ( I am sure mom will post some pictures and tell us about their time---HINT). And it was very very hot! The girls love the Police Officers and there motorcycles. Then after the parade we went home and had some fun in the sun (waterfight), played Rockband, and Brad had to work later that night.

Summer Fun

2009-07-22T15:37:00.001-06:00

We have had so much fun in the water this year. The girls have had a blast playing in the water everyday, my nephews come and play often.

2009-07-22T15:31:00.001-06:00

Birthday or No Birthday

2009-07-14T14:40:00.000-06:00

So today July 14th is Emma's 4th birthday. When she woke up she argued with me that is was tomorrow not today, I had to convince her that it was today. (I know I had to go through a natural birth to get this beautiful, outgoing, sweet girl.) Once she saw her presents she believed me it was her real birthday today. She was so careful when opening her presents, and I had to take a picture of everything she got. We went to McDonalds for lunch (Brad has to work tonight) and she was so excited, when we got home they played with her new presents and she then told the girls they have to take a nap--its her birthday and she is tired and wants ice cream later. She has grown up to fast, she is always being a little momma to everyone ,loves loves loves to clean and of course loves to dance. She is coming out of her little shell and starting to argue, tease and everything else that comes along with growing up. Happy Birthday Emma!

Pulling Teeth

2009-07-13T14:30:00.000-06:00

Kaleigh has been so upset because she has not had any teeth fall out, and all her friends have. So shortly after her break down she woke up the next morning and her bottom 2 teeth were loose. She was so excited, her one tooth already had a permanent tooth coming in. She asked if she could try and pull her teeth out, so we let her try. Our friend's told her that the tooth fairy brings $20.00 when you lose your first tooth, so she really wanted it out.

After her working with her teeth they did not want to come out so she kept playing with them, well it came time to make them come out so we took her to the dentist to get them out,she was so strong and was a very brave girl.(she is a very very big drama queen) They numbed the bottom two got out the magic pullers and they were out, one flew and hit the wall.She was so excited the next morning when the tooth fairy came and left her $6.00. She did tell our friends that they lied to her, but that's okay cause she got $6.00. Now she checks every morning to see if anymore are loose.

?? HAIR CUT ??

2009-07-09T21:44:00.000-06:00

So my sweet little Aly gave the barbie a haircut today, she was very proud of what she did, she told me how she did it and she did not make a mess, she also told me what scissors she used. Then she was so excited to show me the haircut she says "now she looks like a boy". I had to turn my head so she would not see me laughing. I am very grateful that she only cut a barbie's hair and not her own or her sisters!

Dance Recital

2009-06-22T09:24:00.000-06:00

Kaleigh and Emma had their dance recital on Friday night, they both did a tap and ballet dance and they did so good. Emma will continue with dance next year and Aly will be joining her. Kaleigh has decided to try playing softball. We are so excited for the next year to come and starting all the new activities.

Emma Ballet

Emma is the 3rd from the right.

Emma Tap

Emma is in the middle

Kaleigh Ballet

1st on the back row.

Kaleigh Tap

Center (front row)

FOR SALE

2009-05-31T15:00:00.000-06:00

here is a link for my close to my heart stuff that i currently have for sale. Please email me at kea.girls@hotmail.com or give me a call/text . Some paper is retired, stamps maybe slightly used but they are for sale for a great deal. http://s77.photobucket.com/albums/j41/brittneylg/?albumview=slideshow&track=share_email_album_view_click

graduation

2009-05-31T07:42:00.000-06:00

Kaleigh did it! She is moving into the first grade, she got straight A's through out this school year. Her teacher said she talked to much at the first of the year but got better as the year went on. We are very proud of her. They did a really cute graduation program full of songs and poems. Then the teacher made them each a DVD of what they did through out the school year and a book of there artwork.

She is 6

2009-05-26T16:02:00.000-06:00

I can not believe that my oldest tuns 6 today. She has grown up so fast. She has 2 more days left of school, today she got to have school lunch and thought that was so cool. Tomorrow is field day, Thursday is graduation. Kaleigh is so excited to go to the first grade and hope summer break does not last long. She has decided not to continue with dance after the recital she really wants to play softball, we are very excited for that! Happy Birthday, we love you and can not believe how fast you have grown up!

Honest Kid

2009-05-21T13:56:00.000-06:00

We are sitting at my brother's house the other night around the fire. Kaleigh and Alora were sharing a little kids camp chair, they wanted to sit by each other but they were very uncomfortable sitting together. So I asked them if they would like to trade camp chairs and I would sit in Kaleigh's and they could sit in mine. Then Emma (my sweet little quiet shy daughter) turns to me and says "your butt wont fit in that chair" I was shocked she said that. Then I grab the chair and sat just perfectly conmfortable in the chair and said to Emma " my butt does fit in the chair--haha" She just laughed at me.

Scrapbook

2009-05-15T15:59:00.000-06:00

As many of you know I am a Independent Consultant for Close To My Heart. I have added a link to a wonderful website, you can also visit me at brittneygillespie.myctmh.com

Stylin'

2009-05-13T13:49:00.000-06:00

Aly dressed her self so she could go play outside while I did yard work. She is sportin' a green Yo Gabba Gabba backpack, with a dora night gown, tennis shoes and sunglasses that she popped out the eye part so she had glasses like her Kaleigh. Oh yea and a Mountain Dew in hand!

Slippin' slide

2009-05-13T13:32:00.000-06:00

It is finally been nice enough for the girls to play on there slippin' slide. They have so much fun with it.They start out being careful and then they turn into little crazy-daring little girls.

hanatizer

2009-05-10T22:18:00.000-06:00

My two sweet little girls Aly and Emma were laughing so hard the other day when they were playing in the spare bed room; as parents you know when kids are laughing together or quiet there is something going on. So I walked in the room and they were spraying this bottle of liquid on there hair and hands and rubbing it in, well this liquid stunk really really bad and Emma said to me "mom this hanatizer stinks" well come to find out they were playing with Brads hunting stuff and it just happen to be the bottle of deer pee. Well they both thought it was so funny that this hanatizer they played with was deer pee.

Sunday

2009-05-06T15:25:00.000-06:00

For the first time in almost 3 months Brad was able to attend church with us for sacrament, then he had to go into work. In the car kaleigh asked if she could "talk" her testimony. After sitting down she then went up to tell my dad (who is in the bishopric) that she was going to do it so they needed to have the stool ready. We sang the first song and she was ready to go up, I told her she needed to be patient until after the sacrament, she said " I can't". Kaleigh got busy coloring and eating starburst a few people had gone, then she noticed it was time. She jumps right up there and walk up there by herself and said her testimony, it was so sweet. It is so amazing to watch these little sweet children have the courage to get up there to do it.

Almost Summer

2009-05-06T15:12:00.000-06:00

I can not believe that Summer is fast approaching (maybe not weather wise but other ways). Kaleigh graduates on May 28th from kindergarten-she is so dang excited, she gets to go into 1st grade! When I was younger my mom made us do homework books during the summer and I hated it.....guess what? There are some things Kaleigh needs to work on to be prepared for 1st grade that she will be doing them. Brad told her she can have no fun this summer-she has to study all summer, well she laughed at him! They all have birthdays coming up and all very excited to turn the next year so they can all do more stuff. Kaleigh goes to first grade & wants to play softball, Emma turns 4 and just wants to dance and Aly gets to dance and wants to play scoccer. Aly and Brad were playing ball and he threw it towards her and it hit her well then she threw it back at him and said "how does that make you feel?" Then later that day she told me that "kaleigh is pissing her off today" I could not help but laugh. I hope she will grow out of some of these things before she plays sports or attend school.

Haircuts

2009-04-29T14:48:00.000-06:00

So every time Brad needs a haircut the girls think they need one to. They always ask if they can cut it short, I do what I want and they like it. But this time that did not work with Emma she wanted it short above her shoulders. So I did it she looks so much older, then it was Aly's turn she tried to tell me to cut it like Brads, then she quickly changed her mind to have it like Emma's. They both look so much older and when Kaleigh saw them and she said to Emma "Its the new you it does not even look like you, you are stylin." Emma just did her shy little smile. I think it will be alot better since they both like there hair down.

Easter Weekend

2009-04-16T15:36:00.000-06:00

During Easter weekend Brad had to work, so I was trying to find things to keep the girls from asking me every minute when dad will be home to color eggs, so I let them make cookies. They had so much fun, we took some to both of our parties and the girls made sure people were eating them and they new who made them. Here is our fun.

Grandparents Day

2009-04-15T16:42:00.000-06:00

On April 8th Kaleigh had grandparents day at school. She had to interview her grandparents, she told her teacher she would need 6 papers. The next day at school her teacher asked if she really needed that many, her teacher was surprised. The program was very cute, they sang a cute jungle song and she was a tree.She was very excited that all 6 of her grandparents came. She did Great Job!

Taking Care

2009-04-15T16:35:00.000-06:00

From March 27th- April 1st I was down in bed with a Kidney infection (I think it is just as bad as giving birth to children). While I was down I was amazed how well my girls took care of each other and my house (the best they can for being 5,3 and 2). Kaleigh was so good she made sure the girls ate (sometimes not the right stuff at the right time), Emma would just keep everyone on top of what they should do and how to talk, and of course cleaning. Aly would make me take a nap, so I would feel better. I remember one day I walked out to go sit with them in the living room and they all yelled at me to get back to my bed. It is so amazing to see how children learn so fast to help take care of eachother.

Teaching Children

2009-03-16T14:14:00.000-06:00

Who knew that teaching children would be so hard and heartbreaking. This weekend I had to teach Kaleigh that you don't always get invited to places that your sister's do and sometimes friends change there minds. Our neighbors the Robinson's are great neighbors they have 4 girls, two of them are 5 and 3 years old, so our girls and the 5 and 3 year old play together really well. So on Saturday was the 3 years old birthday party and she invite Emma and Alysia, I had to explain to Kaleigh that even though they all play together they just invited those two, cause they are around her age. All week long Kaleigh and her friend Carsyn talked about coming to my house during the party and play big girl stuff. Saturday is here and Emma and Alysia are ready for the party at 8am and it does not start until 3pm (that was a very long morning). We walked the girls over to the party as we are walking Kaleigh is fighting back her tears, then we get there and Carsyn decided to stay at the party and not come over----Kaleigh bursted into tears and ran home. I got her calmed down and we went to the craft store and she picked out a craft to do while I scrapbooked. Then dinner time came and I taughter her how to make Taco Soup (a favorite at our house). She did so good and was so excited to help do it all. When the girls came home she rubbed it in there face she cooked dinner, so then the other 2 were upset they did not get to help. We sat down and had dinner and kaleigh asked Brad if it tasted good: and in tears she said"cause i was not invited to the party and carsyn did not want to play with me" When we all finished dinner she was very excited that we all ate it all gone and that she was a good cook.

Kaleigh makin' Taco Soup

We Survived

2009-03-11T16:52:00.000-06:00

Our family survived Brad going through school and his training with Taylorsville City. He is out on our streets alone. He is working Thursday -Sunday in the morning he is so excited. He had a very rough FTO officer and when he completed his training they gave him the letter that he wrote on how great he did. I had to post how hot he looks in uniform---everyone loves a man in uniform. He treats his car like a child, and the girls think they are so special when they get to get in and sit.

Draper Temple Open House

2009-02-24T10:30:00.000-07:00

Our family went to the Draper Temple Open House on Friday, Kaleigh was being a Missionary and invited our neighbors who went with us. The kids has so much fun and said some fun stuff I thought I would share;They were all so excited they got to ride in a bus up to the temple. As walking down the long runway to the doors, Kaleigh asked Wendy (my inactive sister-in-law) if she could feel the Holy Ghost, Wendy asked what it was and Kaleigh said it something you feel in your heart, makes you happy. As we walked in and saw the Baptismal Font Kaleigh " oh cool they have a hot tub in the temple". My sweet nephew Cody was studying the pamplet so hard as we walked into each room he pointed to what he saw and compared it to the picture. All of the kids loved the chandlers in the room. When we approached the sealing room and they talked with us, Kaleigh was telling everyone she remembers when our family got sealed in another temple. I was amazed that she remembered that special day she was only 2.

Yea, They did it.

2009-02-06T16:05:00.000-07:00

Emma did it, she said the scripture all by herself in Primary. I am very proud of her she is so very shy. Kaleigh broke her glasses and had to go to school for a week without them, she said it was very hard to see and can not wait to get them back. Well she got them back today and said "oh good I can see, I have alot of homework I need to get done." Alysia has learned to spell her name "A-L-Y" and then yells Aly, it is very cute. While at my sister in laws house she was standing next to the fire place and kept getting closer so Wendy told her she has to stand behind this line so she will not get burned and Aly yelled NO at her. Shortly after Wendy could smell Aly's hair burning, she was standing so close to burned her hair. So Wendy called to tell me, then she told the girls to sit down, play and dont move while she went to the restroom. Well when she came back Emma told her she swallowed a penny. So Wendy called me back , I started to laugh. Emma swallowed a penny a week ago, but thought it was funny to "stress" Wendy out. So when i picked them up Emma told me that she likes to play jokes on Wendy.I think it is funny that at such a young age kids learn to joke and tease. Although they have had alot of fun going to different babysitters they are sure ready for Nana and Gramps to come home.

Things kids say......

2009-01-30T16:26:00.000-07:00

Kids say the funniest things, I just thought I would post a couple that my girls have said, they will give you a good laugh, and make you smile for a couple of hours.... :) My parents are in Thailand and I have so many people helping watch my children. Thanks to all who have helped. And I have had to work alot. Kaleigh--"My mom has to work for like 30 hours, so I will just have to go to dance with you" " At church I am a mormon, but not the book kind" "Green, Green says the phone and I answer it and say yellow" Emma---" Kyson is a farter and cryer all day" "I stole Wendy's phone it is in my pocket, we can give it back when I want" Alysia--" The dogs are in the back of the truck" (she uses the letter F) Her hair will crazy, my make up everywhere marker on her hands and she says " I look so beautiful". And everynight we get a secret here it is "my daddy a top" Hope you get a great smile or laugh like we did!

Terrible Two

2009-01-26T14:05:00.000-07:00

My sweet Alysia, what can I say she is a handful. So last night we could not find her, front door was open and no where to be found. Then Kaleigh noticed that the bathroom door was closed and locked. Well there was Alysia in the bathroom on the sink doing her makeup--and decorating my walls. To do this she used my liquid eyeliner and whatever other makeup she could find. We could not stop laughing---she kept saying "I look beautiful". Aly's makeup

New President

2009-01-20T21:36:00.000-07:00

Today Kaleigh came home from school she said I have a ton and I mean a ton of homework to do, but I think I will wait and do it later. LOL (Her teacher sends home homework for 3 weeks at a time). So after that she continued to talk about her day at school, such as they learned how to make snowflakes so she showed her sisters and now my front window is very decorated in snowflakes. Then she was telling me that it was an important day we got a new president he has black skin, black hair and his name is Rock-a-Bomma. I love the things kids say.

Growing up.....

2009-01-19T13:24:00.000-07:00

I can not believe how fast my girls have grown up, Kaleigh only has 5 months left of Kindergarten, Emma is just being her sweet little self, and has informed me that she will not be riding the school bus when it is her time to go to school---"she will hate school". Emma is in the stage where she says she hates everything--even though it is not true, she likes to say it alot. Alysia got a big girl bed--she is loving it, she says "oh big girl bed". She likes to lay on it and play toys, and get out when it is time for bed. I have two nephews who will be both turning 1 at the end of January.I can not believe how fast kids grow up, then there is Brad with his new job he is just like a little kid lost in a candy store or kid on Christmas morning. He had a busy Friday night at worked and he is loving it. Then today he had a Taser and Pepper Spray Class, he volunteered to get tased for 5 seconds---he recorded it.(I can not wait to see it). He said it hurt. I am looking forward to his next work schedule 11 am-8 pm. I did not like him working graveyards, but he loved it. It was nice to have the bed to myself at night, but hated that he needed to sleep all day. He is half way done with his training and will soon get his own car. I dont know who is more excited for his car him or the girls. Kaleigh said " when dad takes me to school in his cop car the kids will think it is sad that I am going to jail, then they will see that I was just getting dropped off for school." Things kids say.

Wonderful Feelings

2009-01-12T08:12:00.000-07:00

I am so over joyed with feelings today.....Yesterday was our Stake Conference and it was so good. The ward choir and the primary children were ask to sing "I am a Child of God". It was so beautiful, although the children sang at the very end, they were very good during it. I am so grateful to have the savior in my life and my families. Words can not express how grateful I am for all the many things that we have. I have recently been chatting with an old friend from elemntary, jr. high and high school. It has been so fun to look back on our lives and talk about everything, we both have little girls who are 2 (they are 1 month apart) and me and Amber were 10 days apart. It will be so fun for them to grow up together as we did. Watch world another Amber and Brittney running around. I am thankful for my friends, family, Brad and my girls. I love you all very much.

Work, work and more work

2009-01-09T13:38:00.000-07:00

Do you ever feel like you dont have enough time to do everything on your list for the day? Well I am definitely feeling that way, I dont have to do all these things but I want them all done. LOL. I am currently trying to get ready for my scrapbook open house and I keep adding to my list of things that I want to do. Then there is Brad who is feeling there is not enough time to rest to start another work night. He has been LOVING his job, but he is getting really tired. He started the work week out on Tuesday working 9pm-6 am Tuesday and Wednesday. Well Wednesday did not get home until 8 am on thursday morning. ( He went to the jail 3 times on that shift.) Then work 11pm-6 am Thursday night and had to go to a Domestic Violence Class from 8am-12pm on Friday then back to work 9pm-5am. WOW although he LOVES what he does, he can not wait for the weekend to try and get some rest. As for the girls they want to do so much that they have decided they "hate going to bed" who could hate that. That is the best time of day---sleeping. LOL. Have a wonderful weekend and stay warm :)

Life back to normal

2009-01-06T13:37:00.000-07:00

Our life's are now getting back to normal. Girls went back to school, dance and church. They all loved there new teachers for primary. Emma said she liked the boy teacher best. (She has a couple teaching her class.) She did really good until it was time for singing time, they sing a Hello song to new people or visitors in our ward and the primary children love it, and they sing it really really loud and it scared her a little. Oh what a great week with all this snow. When out shoveling our walks with Brad I decided to snow blow the snow at him, they girls thought it was so funny. Then he started to throw snow at me,and tackled me into the snow. The girls were so mad at him they yelled at him and started to cry. They told him to never do that again, cause they dont want there mommy hurt. But it is okay if I do stuff to him cause he is a daddy. Got to love your children when they protect you, when you are having fun or flirting. I told Kaleigh that is what you do when you are in love and she looked at me wierd and said you throw snow at them. LOL

Yes, It's the weekend!

2009-01-03T16:15:00.000-07:00

Today is Saturday---so excited. Husband home with me, children playing. A little shopping with my girls and my mom at the mall. What a great day to spend Saturday. I sit here and think of all the things that I should be doing, when really I dont want to do anything. Kaleigh is ready to go back to school on Monday :), Emma ready to go to Primary and Dance, and Alysia does not want to do anything. I am so excited to spend the weekend with family. They are all such loving and a great support to our lives.Cherish your family and let them be your best friends.

Happy New Year

2009-01-02T09:52:00.000-07:00

January 2, 2009 Wow, I can not believe that it is already 2009. So much has gone on in our family in 2008 I decided to start a blog so family and friends can see what is happening with the Gillespie's. Brad started school (Police Academy) in May and finished in December, He currently works for Taylorsville----LOVES it. He is finally doing something he always wanted to do. Kaleigh is 5 and is in kindergarten and she is having so much fun---learning, meeting friends and being a social butterfly. Emma is 3 she started dance this year, she does a very good job. Still shy but is slowly soming out of her shell. Alysia is 2 she is a very busy little girl, loves her cell phones and lipstick, can not wait to do everything her sisters do. Well for me I am maid, laundress, chef, shopper, nurse, accountant, scrapbooker, teacher, taxi driver, entertainer, creative consultant, handywoman, secretary and more!