The Litke Family

The Parker Family

2010-05-14T08:57:00.009-08:00

Jay came home for a visit, and we got to take some family pictures. :)

Great times!

Grandma & Jordyn

2010-01-26T15:48:00.002-09:00

Gma was sharing her chocolate-chip cookie with Jordyn, while we were watching the Australian Open last night. Fun fun! This baby girl sure likes those cookies! Yummy Grandma!

10 minutes in Alaska~

2010-01-26T15:24:00.004-09:00

January 23, 2010

On the way home from watching basketball games at Nikiski High, we just had to stop and snap some pics of this BEAUTIFUL sunset!

Below is when we got out of the truck, and above is just before we loaded back up

(about 10 minutes time).

The Litke Family

Craig & Melissa

Alison, Tyler, Noah, Caleb & Jordyn

(Thanks to the Daniels for snapping the family pics.)

Visit with Kim & Will

2010-01-07T14:56:00.002-09:00

Rachel, I got to see Kim, and meet Will, while they were here a few days ago. It was really fun to connect, and see how happy Kim is. Wish you could have been here too. I pulled out some old pics of us, as kids, to show Will. We sure had lots of fun growing up together! Miss ya! ~ Love, Melissa

Hats from Gma Great!

2010-01-06T19:56:00.004-09:00

Stopped by the beach to take these pictures for Gpa & Gma Great.

It was COLD!!!

December Pics (of the baby...)

2010-01-06T19:32:00.003-09:00

after her bath

with Caleb - in her "walker" - loving that!

First cereal - not crazy about it.

Big sister fed her...

With Dad and our new couch! Leather - we LOVE it!

Moose!

2010-01-04T14:30:00.002-09:00

We had these two moose, in our back yard. We caught them eating a DEAD branch, that fell off of a tree, during a wind storm. They're desperate this time of year!

Sledding Hill

2010-01-04T14:09:00.004-09:00

"Snowball" - the cat, wouldn't get off of Alison's sled, so she went down with him on. He freaked out, and tried to jump off, finally did, and about got ran over, but after running for his life, - he escaped just in time. Watching it - it really looked like he was toast. Funny cat.

Craig made a sledding hill, for the kids, with the tractor, after our big snow, in November. They've been out there a lot on it, and have had hours of great fun sledding.

Litke Winter Family Pictures

2009-12-29T20:22:00.001-09:00

Just celebrated our 14th wedding anniversary!

Alison ~ 11.5

Tyler ~ almost 10

Noah ~ 7.5

Caleb ~ 3.5

Jordyn ~ 5 months

Day after Thanksgiving.

Craig had a great idea ~ to take advantage of our natural backdrop, and get a family picture. :)

Thanksgiving Day

2009-11-26T14:15:00.005-09:00

Tyler, Noah, Alison, Jordyn, & Caleb

Jordyn ~ in dress from Gma Dill. :)

We have Zack & Stephanie and Miss Catie over to spend the day with us today, and are enjoying great food, and fellowship!

Jordyns first days

2009-11-24T12:03:00.003-09:00

Click here to view this photo book larger

Parker Wedding Book

2009-11-24T12:03:00.001-09:00

Click here to view this photo book larger

Monday Night Football ~ Go Brocnos!

2009-11-23T15:43:00.002-09:00

The Broncos didn't do so hot, but we had a great time with our friends,

Zack & Stephanie, Hans and Catie. :)

November 2009

2009-11-23T14:33:00.003-09:00

Baby Jordyn enjoying the fire!

Noah & Caleb playing outside in the first snow Nov 12th.

Mommy & Jordyn

Jordyn asleep with her toys, on the floor.

In her swing.

Tyler & Jordyn

Jordyn found her toesies.

October 2009

2009-11-18T19:52:00.006-09:00

Jordyn, after a shower with Mommy.

Jordyn, asleep in her swing.

Sisters.

Caleb, Tyler, & Noah.

Moose heading towards my roses!

Alison Renee

Jordyn

Noah, Titus, Hope, Kalvin, Adonijah, Tyler (my boys don't look too happy).

Adonijah, Moriah, Noah, Hope, Alison, Elsie, Kalvin, Hallie

Aunt Becky & Jordyn - in dress Becky bought for Jordyn.

Caleb

Noah

One BEAUTIFUL October day!

2009-10-20T15:29:00.003-08:00

Friday, Oct. 16th, 2009

It wasn't terribly warm, but beautiful, and NO snow!

Kids played at a park in Soldotna.

Checking out the view at our friend's, the Riddalls. BEAUTIFUL!

jordyn Two Months Old

2009-10-17T16:52:00.004-08:00

In outfit from Gpa & Gma Gt.

With her Mommy

Sleeping.

With big brother, Tyler, and those cute jeans!

In dress from Aunt Mary.

In blanket made by Grammy.

In outfit that Alison wore, that was Haley's (15 YEARS AGO!!!)

In cute outfit (the jeans are the cutest) from Aunt Beth & Uncle Jay.

With (top) blanket made by Nanny, and (bottom) by Grammy.

Fun on the Beach

2009-08-21T16:10:00.006-08:00

@ Bishop Creek

Craig & Noah

Caleb

The rest of the fishing season

2009-08-14T11:04:00.009-08:00

2nd Homer trip (wit Uncle Terry)

2009-08-13T12:48:00.004-08:00

We spent 2 days in Homer while Craig's brother was visiting, and had a wonderful time. Homer is always beautiful, even while is was raining some and overcast the first day. We woke up to sun, no wind, and flat calm water on the second day, so the guys and the kids had a great time of fishing, and caught 11 halibut in just a few hours. Lots of fun, and great family time!

Caleb - ready to go out on the water.

Mommy, Caleb, and Jordyn - waiting for the crew to get in off the water.

There they go!

Homer spit - no other place like it!

Rounding the end of the spit.

Coming in.

Craig and FIVE kids - heading to dinner.

Caleb looking at all those boats.

Back home - ready to fillet the fish. But have to take a picture first.

Alison, Caleb, Noah, Tyler, Ethan (Allen's son)

Craig, Terry, & Allen (Terry's friend)

Pictures of Jordyn

2009-08-09T20:18:00.004-08:00

At ladies night with Mommy

with sister

in panda outfit from Grammy (Alison's favorite)

In her bouncy seat

In cute outfit from Aunt Leah

With cousin Eden (6 months older)

Daddy's Favorite Pictures

2009-08-09T20:14:00.001-08:00

Fishing '09

2009-07-22T15:52:00.005-08:00

Craig Lee ~ my honey!

Craig & Tyler stacking a net.

Chris picking a fish.

Playing cards in the cabin.

Craig & Matt

The crew - well some of them.

Craig, Tyler & Matt.

Craig, Matt, & Tyler.

Dad moving a log. Craig, Tyler & Matt in boat.

Tyler ~ with flounders.

(He filleted a flounder, with plans to fry it up - cheap/free meat, I guess.)

We've only fished 4 days so far, and have had lots of fun. We fish again tomorrow (Mondays and Thursdays), so I'll probably post more pics towards the end of the season. Just wanted to show that we're having lots of fun on the beach!

Fun In The Sun (6.20.09)

2009-07-13T13:55:00.004-08:00

Friends and family.

Becky, Mom, Hope, Stephanie, Alison, Craig, Ted, Hallie, Eden, Dad.

Caleb & Hope playing Frisbee with Gpa.

Caleb's first time on a horse. Fun fun!

Caleb on giant slide.

Noah took first place in his foot race. He's "speedy". :)

Caleb & Hope in front of fire truck.

Moose!

2009-07-13T13:54:00.002-08:00

Our backyard, front yard, and my parent's front yard.

(For all of you "out-of-staters".)

Jordyn's First Week at Home

2009-07-13T12:40:00.006-08:00

We're just loving this baby girl to pieces. She's really sweet, and just adorable (as you can see). She's letting her Daddy and Mommy sleep pretty good too - 6 to 7 hours at night before needing to eat! That's wonderful! We're sure thankful that she's here, and a blessing to our "little" family.

Jordyn Lavina Shaine Litke

2009-07-08T20:18:00.008-08:00

Jordyn Lavina Shaine Litke

Born: Wednesday, July 1, 2009 @ 2:54 P.M.

Weight: 8 pounds 1.3 ounces

Length: 20.5 inches

Joins big sister, Alison ~11,

And big brothers, Tyler ~9, Noah ~7, and Caleb ~3.

Nadal vs. Federer

2009-06-17T20:49:00.003-08:00

Noah is BIG TIME into tennis. (So is his Dad and Mom.) He sat and watched all of the French Open with us, and is looking forward to Wimbledon coming up in a week or so. :)

He's been out to the tennis courts at the H.S. a couple of times this summer, and wants to go anytime he can get a ride. He's also frequently found, outside practicing with his ball and racket.

The first time at the courts, Tyler played "ball boy", Caleb "tried" to stay in his boundaries, but kept getting in the way, and Alison was photographer. Lots of fun!

Tired Boy (Caleb)

2009-06-17T20:43:00.001-08:00

Fixing up the Lawn

2009-06-17T20:34:00.002-08:00

It was a beautiful day ~ that hit 80 DEGREES!!!

We love the sun, and have fun working outside together.

Now we're waiting for some new grass to grow. :)

Family Day in Homer, AK.

2009-06-04T14:37:00.003-08:00

We drove down to Homer on Sunday, and had a fun family day at the beach, then to the park, then out to dinner. I ended up having contractions before we headed home, but they stopped late that evening. So no baby yet. Dr. said Tuesday that she thinks I'll be pregnant for at least a week or two more. We're excited to meet this little one, but will be patient for whenever she's ready to arrive. :)

Everyday Pictures~

2009-05-12T10:22:00.002-08:00

Caleb on trampoline with moose in the background.

Same moose.

Daddy jumping with the boys.

Mommy - 7 months pregnant. Alison - sticking her stomach out. :)

Mommy & her Boys

2009-05-04T10:40:00.001-08:00

Mommy ~ almost 7 months pregnant.

Noah playing B&G Club Indoor Soccer

2009-05-04T10:30:00.001-08:00

Don't tell Noah, but he's the star of the team. :) He loves playing, and is quite the little soccer player. He's really fun to watch, and is always intense, yet smiling, and looks at his Daddy after every play. Cute!

Caleb's 3!

2009-05-04T10:15:00.002-08:00

Here's our big 3 year old - Caleb Michael. He's a very sweet boy, who is ALL boy. He will try anything. He LOVES his Daddy - and wants to do everything that his Daddy is doing, or at least everything that he sees his older brothers and sister doing. He is really excited and sweet about baby Jordyn coming. He feel asleep on my lap, with his hand on my tummy the other day - we got a picture, I'll have to post it. :) When we got a box of baby girl clothes out, he said "Ohhh", about every stitch of clothing he saw. ~ really sweet. He's a tough little guy, not much slows him down. He's out there on the tramp with the big kids, without skipping a beat. He loves playing with his cousin "Hopee". And one of his favorite past times is staying up on the couch with his Dad and Mom - watching whatever they're watching, but just being there (usually in the middle) is his favorite spot! He's one of a kind for sure, and we sure love him!

Good Change!

2009-05-04T10:01:00.003-08:00

From this: (4.21.09)

To This: (5.3.09)

In less than 2 weeks! Crazy!

We had a 70 degree weekend (while we were having a garage sale - so nice), and we were just basking in the sun for 3 days! It was wonderful, and definitely helped get us over the yucky winter. We are finally looking at spring - even though we're not seeing buds yet, we know they'll appear any day now. The kids have been outside playing (of coarse they were out riding their bikes in the SNOW a few weeks ago) but they too, like this better ~ dirt, and grass, and rocks! Yeah, it's finally spring! THANK YOU LORD!

MORE Winter Pics ~

2009-04-14T20:44:00.003-08:00

I had planned to post this right after taking the picture (on Sunday, March 30th) because it was snowing like crazy, and we ended up getting another good 4 inches of snow that day, which made me think, "it's beginning to look a lot like winter".

But that has been a little over two weeks ago now, and we are starting to melt a bit up here. We've had temps in the mid 40's this past week, and are really seeing some headway - the pot holes have returned, and many lakes and rivers have formed on dirt roads. My kids have broken out their bikes (it's been a LONG winter), and have been riding in the slush.

Our BBQ almost has all of the snow off of the top of it, but there's no moving it for some time still. ~ I can't wait to BBQ!

Anyways, we're making progress, and are very excited about the early signs of Spring!

Tyler ~ buried in the snow 3.27.09.

Tyler vs. Shovel

2009-04-14T20:39:00.003-08:00

Tyler was outside playing with the kids, and wanted to pick up a shovel (off of the ground) w/o bending over - so he pushed his foot down on the metal part to kick the handle up in the air, and guess what....

That goose egg was probably the biggest I've ever seen, but a baggie of snow cut the swelling in no time. What a kid!

I have to say too, that last summer he had a run in with a rake and a pitch fork. He's all boy!

Mt. Redoubt pictures~

2009-04-14T20:27:00.002-08:00

Just a little puff... 4.5.09

Pretty, pretty ~ but headed our way. Didn't see any ash from this one, but it was pretty. 3.31.09

We did see a bit of ash from an eruption earlier than this one. Just enough to dust the cars and snow, but no damage.

The volcano has been quiet for some time now. So maybe she's done???

San Diego Zoo!

2009-03-18T15:45:00.003-08:00

7 Night Cruise to MEXICO!!!

2009-03-17T17:08:00.005-08:00

In Mazatlan

Noah & Caleb watching a cliff diver in Mazatlan

Litke & Wade kids (great buddies!)

In Cabo San Lucas ~ SO MUCH FUN!!!

All dressed up!

Craig & Melissa ~ living it up with Coke and Ice Tea!

Daddy & Noah

Caleb

Tyler

Disney Land~February 2009!

2009-03-17T16:26:00.007-08:00

Ready for California!

2009-03-17T16:13:00.005-08:00

Here we are ~ at a hotel close to the SeaTac airport ~ ready to head to California in the morning! The kids were awake one minute, then asleep the nest. We had a very busy and fun time of visiting friends and family over the coarse of 9 days. We traveled from the Seattle area to the Tri Cities area, to the Boise area, and then back to Seattle. We made lots of memories, and are glad to have many pictures to help remember our time!

Visiting the Parker's

2009-03-17T16:06:00.001-08:00

Craig & Melissa, Gpa & Gma, Kenny & Becki, Cheryl (missing Jim)

Gpa & Gma Gt.

Parker Cousins~ they keep getting bigger, and bigger!

Lepah Lou~

2009-03-17T16:02:00.003-08:00

We got to stop and have a quick lunch with Lepha & Toby, which was really fun. Then Craig grabbed the camera, and tried to make Lepha "smile". Fun Fun!

Nampa Friends & Family

2009-03-17T15:53:00.001-08:00

Nanny & Papa with kids

Loucks cousins with Alison & Caleb

Doug & Craig with kids

Visiting the Litke's

2009-03-17T15:31:00.003-08:00

Terry & Melinda, Michael & Annie

Craig & Terry's kids ~ Cousins!

Cousins and buddies: Elijah & Noah

Cousins ~ Caleb, Tyler & Ben

Craig, Christy, & Sarah

Gpa Litke & grandkids

Grammy & grandkids with the clothes she got for them.

Bowling with Gpa & Grammy Litke

Cousins ~ Alison & Emma

First stop ~ Aunt Barb & Gma Dill

2009-03-17T14:58:00.006-08:00

Grandma Dill looked great! It was sooo good to see her, and hug her. We miss her sweet smile.

Aunt Barb & "Uncle" Jim ~ were kind enough to open their house to us (and our 4 kidos!) We had a wonderful (quick) time visiting with them, and were spoiled by the love of my dear Aunt.

Craig got the camera out, and said something "smart" to make us crack up. What a guy!

Jim & Barb ~ Alison, Tyler, Noah, & Caleb

Gma Dill & her sweet Alison.

Our BIG Vacation!!!

2009-03-17T14:48:00.003-08:00

We left Anchorage on March 31st - headed to Seattle to visit family for 9 days. Here we are - all 6 of us, with a carry on each. Fun fun.

For those of you who may not have heard yet...

We had a doctor's appointment on our way to Anchorage, and found out that we are having a sweet little GIRL! We're really excited! (Especially Alison, she's been waiting for a sister for a long time now!) This little one (it's still weird to say, "she/her" - even though we've had 2 ultrasounds to prove it!), is moving a lot now, and it's really fun for the kids to put their hands on my tummy and feel "her". We excitably await her arrival that should be around July 2nd. :)

Alaskan Winter

2009-01-23T12:05:00.002-09:00

Our House Is Finished!!!

2009-01-23T11:40:00.004-09:00

We are so happy and blessed to have our house completed! We have a brand new kitchen, and beautiful siding, as well as a nice, fully functional master bathroom. I have a bit of painting to do on the siding on the back of the house (as it doesn't dry very well in these freezing temps. :) But it sure has come a long way ~ speaking of that, I should look for a before shot... It's crazy to see the difference!

Gpa & Gma Great's Visit to AK!

2008-12-22T10:43:00.006-09:00

Gpa showing his pens!

(pregnant) Becky & Gma

all but Adonijah

Gpa reading to Caleb

Gma & Caleb

All of the AK greats!

Gpa & Gma

What a blessing it was to have Gpa & Gma visit! It had been too long, and we sure were happy to have them here. We had lots of yummy meals together, shared many stories, and sought the Lord out together as well - something I'll never forget! What a blessing to know and be known my my grandparents! I love you both very much!

Love, Melissa

We're having a....BABY!

2008-12-14T11:33:00.005-09:00

We had our first ultrasound a couple of weeks ago, and so I thought I'd share the pic. This baby is just a tiny little thing, but we are sure excited and very blessed with a wonderful family. We plan to find out the sex sometime in February. So that will be fun too. We're looking at a due date of July 2nd 2009 - right before fishing! Fun Fun.

Melissa

2008-11-24T12:05:00.010-09:00

Tyler - skating.

Alison & Caleb

Alison Renee - skating.

Daddy & Caleb watching on.

Noah getting some help from Alison.

My 3 "ice skaters".

Mommy with Caleb asleep. (He's not so little anymore.)

Noah - all 35 lbs of him!

Ali & Tyler on the big slide!

Tyler boy.

We took the family to Anchorage in late October for a weekend of fun. We went to the water park, shopped a bunch, ate out lots (yummy & expensive!), and let the three older kids ice skate at the Diamond Center (for the first time). We had a great family time, and just before we checked out of our hotel room, we found out that our family is getting bigger ~ we're going to have another baby! It was so fun to get to share the news with all of the kids together, and they were (and are) SO excited! Of coarse Alison is hoping for a sister, and the boys want another brother, but only the Lord knows (for now). We are blessed with a beautiful family, and looking forward to the increase that God has in store for us!

SIDING the house!

2008-11-24T10:15:00.006-09:00

We have all of our siding up!

I don't have a good "after" picture, but I'll get one soon. The house looks so nice, and finished! We are very blessed!

Some of my favorite pics...

2008-09-23T14:21:00.006-08:00

Caleb & Hope playing with "little people".

Daddy tickling Noah at Tyler's game.

Chocolate chip cookie dough.

Tyler Playing Flag Football

2008-09-23T14:05:00.004-08:00

Tyler is playing Flag Football for the first time this year. He's really enjoying it, and learning lots about the game. I've had fun taking some pictures of him (with my new camera), and each frame shows him with a big smile on his face. He's not the fastest out there, but he's got a smile on! He especially likes playing his friend, Rykker's, team. (Their lined up against each other above.)

Camping on the Homer Spit

2008-09-01T12:06:00.003-08:00

We camped the second night in Homer, on the spit, with Derrick & Becky and Hope & Adonijah. The kids enjoyed fishing in the "Fishing Hole", and checking out the beach. We had a fun time again, around the camp fire - with a beautiful sunset, and yummy cinnamon rolls around a stick.

Camping with the Parkers

2008-09-01T11:50:00.003-08:00

We spent one night (in tents), in Homer, with my parents, Matt, Chris & Cara. We had a fun time around the camp fire, until it started raining!

Tyler boy....

2008-09-01T11:31:00.003-08:00

MOOSE

2008-09-01T11:25:00.001-08:00

Back to School

2008-09-01T11:14:00.004-08:00

We sent 3 of our 4 kids to school on Wednesday the 20th, of August....

Alison's in 5th grade, Tyler 3d, and Noah 1st. They were all excited about going back to school, and seeing their classmates. Craig teased me, saying that I was looking forward to a little break at home, which is a little true, but we really had a great summer with the kids home. They have been home this weekend (for Labor Day), and we've enjoyed the family time. We've spent two days working outside on the house - getting things ready to put siding up! So we're really excited about that. We look to tackle siding next weekend. So that will sure change the looks of things around here! We're also planning to order cabinets and counter tops for the kitchen this week. How exciting!!! We'll keep you posted with pics of the progress, as it happens.

Alero = "Grace of the Land". (I recieve that!)

2008-08-28T09:58:00.007-08:00

I have been without wheels for most of the summer (we're replacing the engine in the Excursion), and Craig has been wanting to get me a zip around car, with better mpg, for the kids and I to zip around in, ~ so we just bought a 1999 Oldsmobile Alero. It's really cute, and we LOVE it. It's hard to tell who likes it more - Craig or I (he drives it any chance he gets). :)

It's fun to drive, and gets way better mpg than the Excursion did! So we're thankful and praise the Lord for His provision.

What our kids are up to...

2008-08-28T09:30:00.005-08:00

Noah & Caleb picking wild strawberries in the front yard. Tyler working for/with Uncle Derrick at "Stanton Log Works" in Kenai.
Alison building a tree fort.

Halibut fishing in Homer

2008-08-26T20:21:00.003-08:00

We fished for halibut in Homer a couple of weekends ago. It was a memorable experience ~ with 6 kids in the boat. :) Derrick caught his first halibut. (It's about time!) And he paid up for the 1st, biggest, and most halibut caught ~ $1 for each, and Noah was the big winner, going home with $3 in his little pocket. We ended up with only 4 small halibut, in about 2 hours, before the wind started to pick up. But we did have a great time!

Sleeping Boys

2008-08-26T20:15:00.000-08:00

Caleb
Tyler

Last of the fishing pics...

2008-08-21T15:14:00.004-08:00

Our fishing season ended up consisting of 4 fishing periods! The reds never showed up, and so we were closed for the normal days that we were suppose to fish. It's the worst season in a very long time, but God is our provider, and we are well taken care of. As it turns out, I didn't get as many pics as I usually do. Craig didn't get as smelly, nor use as much Advil (for his hands), (I don't think he used any, come to think of it). And we didn't pull out any Salmon for the winter (we usually set some aside one the last fishing period). We'll look forward to next year. :)

Family Bike Ride

2008-07-21T23:06:00.003-08:00

We drove to Kenai yesterday, and then went on a family bike ride down to the Kenai beach to watch the crazy people who were out dip-netting in the high winds that we were having. It was fun to see, but we didn't stick around too long (it wasn't very warm). Then we rode to Safeway, on back roads, through Kenai, and got some ice cream. Then to the little park in town, before heading back to the truck. It was a fun ride (made my legs burn!), and the kids had a blast. Tyler was wanting to ride all the way home (from town), about 10 miles. Craig tried to explain that he wouldn't get far before he'd think it was a bad idea, but Tyler didn't seem to believe him. :)

Noah's Bubble Gum Ice Cream!

I remember getting bubble gum ice cream as a kid, and three out of our four kids got it yesterday (Tyler had chocolate). It made me wonder ~ at what age do kids stop getting bubble gum ice cream??? And what about my Mom and all the other adults in my life that always told me that if you swallow your gum, it stays in your stomach for something like 3 years??? I don't think that is true. But I don't know.

3rd Fishing Day (Rainy)

2008-07-21T22:57:00.003-08:00

Craig took Tyler out in the boat to pick through the nets. Tyler was doing a good job of "pulling his weight", while pulling in the lead line. He loves being out there with his Daddy.

Life on the beach ~ 2nd day of fishing

2008-07-20T11:02:00.007-08:00

Ted, Caleb, Chris, Tyler, Gma, Alison, & Craig ~

Just taking a little rest, and enjoying the wonderful SUN!

Gma & Caleb Noah & Caleb on log
Caleb Michael
Tyler pitching fish Caleb in Daddy's new chair

"Like father, like son" and "look-alikes" ~ Daddy & Tyler
Our second day of fishing was a blessing with the sun shining on our faces, and bunches of fishies jumping into our nets. We saw fish jumping all over the beach, sometimes 2 or 3 at a time!
So that was really fun. Tyler got to get his rain gear on, and fish with his Dad - he loves that!

Big Sister, "Little" Brother

2008-07-20T10:46:00.004-08:00

My brother Matt, called me the other day, and said he thought it would be a good day for a cheeseburger. So he drove over to my house, and went to get us cheeseburgers and Dr. Pepper.

It was great fun to have lunch with him, and crazy to think that he is old enough to do stuff like that.

He's 16 (17 in November), and will be a Junior this year at the high school. He's planning to play football, wrestle, and basketball - which kept him very busy last year. He's a really fun kid, even though he's not as wild as he was when he was little. He's a great uncle to my kidos, (they think he's really cool). :) He's spending a lot of time with Craig down on the beach this summer - as we have a much smaller crew for fishing. Craig's enjoying having Matt in his boat some this year.

I love him lots, and I'm thankful that we get to live just down the road from each other, so that we can have cheeseburgers together every once in a while. Thanks for the date Matt! Love you brother! :)

First Day of Fishing

2008-07-12T20:58:00.004-08:00

Craig, Matt & Chris
Dad & Craig
Dad's new tractor
Mom
Noah
Thursday, the 10th was our first day of fishing this year. We didn't catch much, but it was a good run through. We're looking forward to catching some more of those fishies, and hopefully some nice sunny days to enjoy being down on the beach with. Tyler got to go out in the boat with his Daddy, on Thursday, and had lots of fun with that. We just started, so there will be more pictures to come...

4th of July Parade

2008-07-12T20:46:00.003-08:00

It was sprinkling a little, and not very warm (it's been averaging around 50 degrees this summer. Burr. But the kids had fun, and got lots of candy - just what they needed. :) It was their first parade. When they got there, they were asking what a "parade" is. (We're a little sheltered here in small town AK.) But now they know. :) And what a parade it was!

Fun In the Sun (Nikiski Days)

2008-07-11T16:48:00.003-08:00

Caleb

Noah

Tyler & Rykker

Alison in middle ~ ready to race!

Noah's 6!

2008-07-11T16:03:00.005-08:00

Noah just turned 6 years old! He's really growing up, and getting taller, but still as skinny as can be at 42 lbs (wet). :) He's a sweet boy, with a fun personality - like none other. He enjoys riding his bike, jumping on the tramp, playing ping pong, pool, playstation3, and being with his Dad. We took the family for go cart rides, and then picked up an ice cream cake for his special day.

Kids riding their bikes

2008-07-01T15:33:00.003-08:00

One of the kids (and Mommy's) favorite past times...
The kids riding their bikes~

Parker Grandkids

2008-07-01T15:24:00.003-08:00

All of Grandma's (& Grandpa's) grandkids (so far).
6 and counting...
Alison 10, Tyler 8, Noah 6, Caleb 2, Hope 2, Adonijah 1.
:)
(We'll try for a better picture soon.)

Alison's 10th Birthday!

2008-07-01T14:49:00.004-08:00

Ali's 10!

It doesn't seem possible, but I guess we had our first baby 10 years ago!
She is a sweet little girl (we say "girl" still),
and I can't imagine our family without her.

She spent the day with her best friend, Hallie, and had a great time together.
We started by taking Ali to get her ears pierced, then went out to lunch and ice cream.
Lots of fun!!!

After a couple of tears shed, (the gun got caught on some of her hairs, so wasn't coming away from her head after the earring was in), it was all done, and Alison now has her pretty ears pierced! (I'm afraid Hallie had the hardest time, as she has her ears pierced, and knew what Alison was about to go through.)
:)
Silly girls, jumping/dancing on the trampoline!

Visit with Kimberly!

2008-06-11T10:38:00.002-08:00

Kimberly was home for a few days, and I got to spend the afternoon with her on Saturday. It was great to see her, and play catch up from when we last got to visit, in December. It was fun to hear of what she's expecting in Africa, and all of the unknown about that great new world, that she is soon going to call "home". I also enjoyed hearing more about her visit with our friend Rachel in UT. It made me wish I could have been there with them, but we'll look forward to another meeting in the (hopefully) near future. That would be great fun!

Kim sure looks and sounds like she is doing well. She is a brave one to go off to Africa all on her own. But I know that she will do great. And I can't wait to hear about all of her new adventures. Be blessed, and take care Kim! And thanks for coming to see me! :)

Fun with cousin Hope!

2008-06-09T14:09:00.003-08:00

Caleb & Hope ~ trying out water guns, on the trampoline.
Noah & Hope with a chocolate chip cookie

Hope got to come and play the other day.
These cousins always have fun together!

Daddy got a hold of the camera...

2008-06-09T13:55:00.001-08:00

SILLY KIDOS!

1st Pictures with new camera!

2008-06-09T13:32:00.003-08:00

I saved up my pennies (lots of them) for a new (fancy) camera... I got it last week, and it's sooo much fun!

It's a Digital Canon EOS Rebel XT. It's very nice, and is lots of fun to use. Of coarse, I don't have it all figured out yet, but I can point and shoot, and I've got some fun pictures to share. So here they are...

Summer - YEAH!!

2008-06-07T22:12:00.002-08:00

It's warm enough for the kids to be outside, on the tramp, in their swimming suits, with the sprinkler spraying them from under the tramp.

They've been having a great time, being out of school, and enjoying the sun. It hasn't been hot yet, but we've had some very warm days, and sure enjoy the sun being around. It's light until way late, and light much before we get up in the morning. Just about light 24 hours now, ~ it's that time of year for AK. We don't mind, after a long dark winter. The kids don't understand why they have to go to bed when it's still light out. And sometimes Noah has woken up in the AM, and thought that it was still the day before - like just always day - the same day, because it never gets dark! He'll probably figure it out about the time it starts getting dark again.

We'll take it for now though! We LOVE summer. We've seen some brand new baby moose. They're all over this time of year. We had a mommy with a new baby walk right in front of our house, through our yard a few nights ago. They were too quick for me to get a picture, but they were cute. Craig says he sees them all the time - while he's out working - driving all over the place putting in satellite TV for people.

Craig's keeping pretty busy with Satech, and getting ready for fishing. He's out playing the PS3 with the boys right now. So they're having fun with that. Alison has been spending the day with her Aunt Becky. Caleb is just about always finding something to get into. (Not quite that bad - but he's a busy boy). And I just started a load of laundry, and thought I'd get on here - since it's been a while. I got to spend some of this afternoon with my friend Kim, and she inspired me to keep BLOGGING! So here it is Kim! It was great to see you today ~ have a good rest of your visit here!

That's all for now. Later ~ Melissa

Tyler & Grandma

2008-06-07T22:04:00.004-08:00

Tyler spent the night with his Gma the other night. They started off with a hot dog roast on the beach. It was a beautiful night, and a great opportunity for a picture. Tyler loves his Gma!

Noah playing soccer

2008-05-09T16:48:00.002-08:00

We do have pictures taken of our other children,
these just happened to be given to us two days apart.
:)

This is Noah's team ~ after their last game! It was a fun, short season. He had a blast!!!

Good pic of Noah - our "Kinder"

2008-05-07T16:15:00.002-08:00

We only buy pictures from the school, that are really good (since we have 4 kidos, and the pictures are really expensive!) I loved this one of Noah, so here's what $12.00 buys you (this and the 2 5x7's that I scanned onto the computer). :)

Spring? We were beginning to wonder...

2008-05-07T09:47:00.003-08:00

Alison and Caleb just had to go and make a snowman, with all of that new snow on~

APRIL 26th, 2008

Crazy. It didn't last long, and was fun for them, but this sure was a very long spring/breakup.
We are into some mild spring temps now, and all but a sledding hill of snow is gone off of our lawn now. I've been out in my flower bed, weeding. So that has been a lot of fun. The kids have been out jumping on the trampoline, swinging on a new buoy swing, riding their bikes, and climbing trees. Fun fun. We sure are looking forward to summer!!!

Caleb the Artist

2008-05-02T10:57:00.001-08:00

Caleb painted me a pretty picture. I thought I'd share it. :)

Caleb's TWO!

2008-05-02T10:38:00.003-08:00

Flowers from my sweet kids (and Honey)

2008-04-04T16:19:00.003-08:00

I was greeted at home with 4 bunches of beautiful tulips.

One from each of the older kids, and one from Craig.

What a blessed Mommy I am.

Saying Goodbye...

2008-04-03T10:18:00.004-08:00

Saying goodbye to Gma is never fun, but we look forward to getting together for another Blizzard soon. :)
(Thanks again Aunt Barb - for everything!!!)

On vacation...

2008-04-03T10:05:00.006-08:00

Continental breakfast at the Marriott~

Aunt Barb, Gma Dill, Mom & Aunt Nancy

Gma Betty, Adonijah, & Aunt Barb

Gpa Harold, & Dad

Adonijah & Hope (Becky's kids)

Chris & Cara, Uncle Kenny, & Aunt Cheryl and Uncle Ron

Partyin' it up in the big city!

2008-04-03T09:50:00.005-08:00

Sisters

Girl's Night out to Starbucks the night before the wedding.

Bowling Party the night of the wedding!
We bowled from 11- 12 at night in some big club (they don't have things like that where I'm from). It was a blast with the newlyweds, Chris and Cara, and Matt and I.

I do have to mention that I was the high scorer ~ @ 124! I'm sure it's the best game I've ever bowled, and don't plan on matching or beating it again. :)

We had a blast though! And Jay stayed awake, so that was great!

Mr. & Mrs. Jason Parker (and Gabriel)

2008-04-03T09:14:00.011-08:00

Est. 3.23.08
Portland, Oregon

(The beautiful bride is my new sister ~ Beth.)

And I got to go!!!
What a wonderful trip, and a fun vacation for this mom of 4!
My dear Aunt Barb flew me down to be able to go to my brother's wedding in Portland, and then I got to spend a few days in Seattle with Barb and my Grandma.
It was a great, quick trip, with lots of fun memories, and pictures to help remember it by.
I thought I'd share some with all of you...

3rd Place!

2008-03-12T09:16:00.001-08:00

Just wanted to let you all know that Alison placed 3rd at the school district forensics competition on Saturday. She did a good job, and wasn't really nervous at all. It was a fun experience for her, and she's looking forward to doing it again next year.

:)

Life at the Litke house...

2008-03-05T09:01:00.004-09:00

Alison & Tyler's Playing Ball!

2008-02-27T20:29:00.012-09:00

Alison (4th grade) & Tyler (2nd grade) got to play on the same 3rd & 4th grade, Boys & Girls Club basketball team because the team was short players, and allowed Tyler to swing up. Craig coached the team ~ so it was a family affair, and we all had a blast!

Alison and Tyler both improved a lot on their skills, and love playing ball.

Alison & her Daddy

Tyler and his Daddy
Craig said "well done my son".

The whole team!

*Caleb was ALWAYS ready to go.

He said, "Put me in coach".

Alison's Poem

2008-02-27T09:11:00.006-09:00

Alison had to recite a poem for "forensics", for a grade. She did so well in her class competition, that she was able to compete in her school competition, and went on from there to go to the district wide meet that will be on March 8th. It's a great poem, and she does a really good job reciting it, so I thought you might enjoy it too. Below is the poem, and then a video of her practicing it in our living room. The volume isn't very loud, so I hope you can hear it - if you turn it up. :) Love, Melissa

Hi, I’m Alison, I’m in forth grade.
I’d like to share with you a poem I made.
I didn’t write it myself, though I wish I had.
But it’s my ideas rhymed by my dad.
It’s all about me, and people I know.
So everyone get ready, get set, here we go.

My friends here at school make my days really fun.
And I know that I’ll miss everyone when we’re done.
Like my good friend Makayla, she doesn’t think twice
She’s quick to be kind - she shares and she’s nice.
Ireland is funny, she’s really a riot.
Hannah’s so nice, polite and quite quiet.
Lilly is funny, and not really rude.
But at times comes across with some attitude.
Then you add Jennifer, who tries to act cool.
But put us together and you know the GIRLS RULE!

Mrs. Zimmerman’s funny, I love her to bits.
She sharpens my brain and she sharpens my wits.
She cares for her class, she loves the whole troop.
I smile when she says “put your poop in a group”.

There are NO boys in my poem. Guys, fight back the tears,
but my dad wrote the poem.
Try back in a few years.

Now on to my family: Six members in all -
There are days I can’t stand them. Some days they’re a ball!

Caleb’s the youngest, Our one year old sport.
He can’t say my name, Calls me “Owie” for short.

Noah’s in kindergarten, He likes balls and trucks.
When I give him 10 pennies, He gives me two bucks.

Tyler’s my favorite??? (My dad wrote that line.) But on the most part,
I’d say he’s a good friend of mine.

One girl and three boys. That’s three times a brother,
I hope for a sister if we have another.

My mom keeps me busy, when I’d rather play.
But the truth is I hope to be like her one day.
She’s smart and she’s kind, And gives all that she’s got.
And when I’m difficult, she still loves me a lot.

My dad tells me stories. I call him my “Dater”.
When I want it now - he always says, “later”.
He’s stricter than most, but I’m starting to see -
That he really only wants the very best for me.
I dance with my Dad - he gives me a twirl.
And I know I am loved when he calls me his “girl”.

As for me, I’m a red-head, I try to be funny.
I try to look cool, and I really like money.
I want to be smart, but sometimes I flunk.
I’d love to eat healthy - but sometimes eat junk.
I clean house for mom, play basketball for dad.
I laugh when I’m happy and cry when I’m sad.
But I love my life, and so, finally -
I hope you enjoyed this poem about me!

I've been "tagged"?

2008-02-15T15:36:00.010-09:00

This is Rachel's doing...

A. The rules of the game are posted at the beginning.

B. Each player answers the questions about themselves.

C. At the end of the post, the player then tags 5 people and posts their names, then goes to their blogs and leaves them a comment, letting them know that they have been tagged, and asking them to read your blog.

10 years ago: Let's see...this time, in 1998, Craig and I were living in Moses Lake, WA. He was the youth pastor at a church, and we were expecting our first baby (Alison Renee, born June 16th). I was trying to help with the teen group, but at the time, I was quite introverted, and didn't much like Jr. High kids (especially girls). It all worked out though. Craig was really good at his job, so he didn't really need me, and I enjoyed getting ready for our baby (when I wasn't throwing up ~ which was almost everyday, until she arrived!) Then we made a quick move back to Alaska, when Ali was 2 weeks old.

5 things on my to do list today: Exercise with my sister Becky. (Done.) Get dinner going (ham in the crock pot, bread in the bread machine). (Done.) Take a shower and get dressed for the day ~ that's always an accomplishment with a little one at home. :) (Done.) Finish this blog. Fold and put away the clothes that are on my bed.

Snacks I enjoy: Plenty! I really like the Hostess "fake" chocolate donuts. I usually make a batch of chocolate chip cookies every weekend, and really like a good cookie with milk. I like ice cream, and cakes, and candy. I also really like chips and salsa ~ from Don Jose's. I like popcorn with a good movie, and especially at the theater! All bad snacks. I use to love carrots, but go for the sweets these days. Recently I've taken a liking to cashews (thanks to golfing with Craig in the summer).

Things I would do if I were a billionaire: I am well taken care of now, and don't dream much for things that haven't been given to me. But I'm sure I could think of a few things...

TRAVEL~I would love to take my husband on a vacation. The poor thing didn't grow up here, and even after the 13 or so years that he's been a resident, he is still not use to the dark, cold, long winters. So I'd like to take him someplace warm (like RIGHT NOW!) I'd also like to take him to Seattle or somewhere fun on the 4th of July to see a firework show, because on the 4th of July in Alaska, it is light all night long. There are many other places we have talked about wanting to visit. I've always wanted to go to Maine in the fall. We'd like to see NY ~ maybe catch the Letterman show. We went to Hawaii in '97, and would love to go back.

A new CAR~We love our Excursion, but the engine is bad, and needs to be replaced. It's on our list of things to do, but it would be fun to be able to go and get a new rig! One with heated seats would be nice! :)

A new WARDROBE for me~it's been a long time since I've been able to spend much money on clothes for me. It'd be great fun to go and buy what I wanted instead of what's on clearance.

Our 2nd HOUSE~We have a piece of property next to the land we live on now, and from the beginning, the plan has been to re-build this house (which is close to being finished), then build our "dream-house) next door. We have been able to build this house out of pocket, which is such a blessing! And would like to do the same with the next one. A billion dollars would probably take care of that!

We have a wish-list of a lot of "LITTLE THINGS" hanging on our fridge~A four wheeler, furniture, sewing machine, Mac laptop, a zip around car (with good gas mileage), camera, video camera, hot tub.

3 of my bad habits: I like to eat a "snack" before I go to bed at night. I am a sucker for a good deal - especially clearance items. I find myself coming home with things that were really "cheap", but not on my list. I sometimes believe a lie, more than I accept the truth.

5 Places I have lived: I was born in Everett, Washington. My family moved to AK when I was 5. I grew up here in Nikiski, and was lucky enough to find a husband, who wanted to raise his family here (with me). We have lived here for all of our married life (12+ years), except for a 10 month period of time that we moved to Moses Lake, WA, got pregnant, had a baby and then moved back to AK. Craig and I have lived in several places since we've been married. We've mostly house sat for different extended family members. We were very excited to move into our own home for the first time in September of 2006!

5 jobs that I have had: I can't remember the last PAYING job that I've had. I've been a house wife and mommy for almost 10 years now! It's all I've ever wanted to do with my life, and I enjoy it very much. I worked for a little while after I was married and before we had kids - babysitting a few different children. It's crazy to see them all grown now! Craig makes fun of my "resume" because I didn't have a very good attitude about the minimum wage jobs that I had a long long time ago. I worked at our local movie theater for about a month. Then worked at Subway for about the same amount of time. I was a bit of a snob I guess. And I wouldn't fake a smile and conversation ~ which was required for the sandwich making position. I was happy to be in the back washing dishes, but put me out on the line, and I didn't much like it. I would do fine these days. :)

5 things people don't know about me: I am fairly transparent with the people around me ~ so there isn't much that they don't know about me. But for those of you who I don't see often, you may not know that..... (1) I was married in HS, Craig and I went to my senior prom together, and Craig was substitute teaching at my school before and after we were married. (2) I have a little addiction with Gmail - especially "chatting". My brother Chris got me in this game, and now if I see a green light next to someone on my contact list, I have a hard time not chatting. :) (3) Craig and I are really into "24" - the TV series. We are watching the 6th season now. We often talk about Jack Bauer, and really liked President Dennis Palmer. (4) I hate all kinds of pie, and most seafood (all but salmon and halibut). (5) I can touch my tongue to my nose. (Can't believe I shared that one!)

Well Rachel, I hope you're happy! I truly don't know anyone else on this "blog" thing besides you (Rachel) and my cousin Chad0. So I'll tag Chad. And maybe if I can get my sis to make a blog, then I'll tag her. :)

Daily life @ the Litke's

2008-02-12T10:13:00.000-09:00

Me with my sweet nephew, Adonijah, Becky's son.

Craig with all 4 kids.

Caleb playing with his favorite toys - Little People.

Hi there, I have some more pictures to share. (I like this blogging thing - it's pretty easy, once you get started.)

These pictures show how it is around our house most of the time. We love our new house! It's been such a blessing to have a nice warm home to raise our little family in. Craig just put in a garage door opener over the weekend, so now we get to drive into our garage, and be warm when we go to leave! How nice! A heated garage is a must in Alaska!

We are fairly busy right now because Alison and Tyler are playing basketball with the Boys and Girls Club, and Craig is coaching. So we have 3 nights a week devoted to basketball, but it's a short season, and we'll be done next week. It has been really fun family time though. We all go to practices together. Noah runs like crazy, and has his little basketball in his hands at all times. He's making quite a few shots now - getting stronger! Caleb runs all over the place. He wants to be doing all that the "big" kids are doing, but isn't allowed, so sometimes has to sit with Mommy, which isn't any fun. :)

That's all for now.