Galli Town

Family Skating at Millennium

2012-02-12T21:21:00.000-07:00

Last weekend, while Chrissy's Mum was still in town, we decided to go skating after church to Millennium. Anne and Auntie Megan skated with Gallitown and we were so excited that Auntie Sue and Ally came skating! This was only Ally's second time skating ever and she did so awesome! She got more and more confident as the afternoon went on. I am a very proud Uncle!

Below are a few pictures and videos from the afternoon

Abs skating with Granny and Auntie Megan

Granny and Abs

Abby and her Mama

Granny taking a break with big Zach

Auntie Megan and Abs smiling

Alyssa and Abby skating with Sue

Granny taking Zachy for a ride

I think these chicks are ready for the Ice Capades

The girls resting

Waiting for the kids to come back out skating

Ally starting to get more confident skating without her Mom's help

Go Ally Go

Zach cruising with Granny and Auntie Megan behind him

Ally and Abby skating

More big smiles from the girls

Mum and Zach

Ally and her Skating

Zach skating on his own

Abby outrunning Auntie Megan and Granny

Ally skating all by herself

Hair Massacure and Gallitown Make-Over

2012-02-07T12:58:00.000-07:00

As most of you know, Chrissy, Steve, a Co-Worker of Chrissy's (Robin) and I participated in the 2012 Hair Massacure. Steve, Robin and I dyed our hair Pink for about 3 weeks and Chrissy donated 14 Inches of her hair to make a wig for children in need of one. Our Team raised over $4,400 for the cause and we all were all so blessed with all the support we got from everyone. Below are some before and after pictures as well as shots at WEM where the Massacure took place.

The 3 Amigos just after we dyed our hair in early January

Chrissy and Abby going Pink for the month

A before picture at the mall

A little scared at first...

Steve and I getting our heads shaved

Laughing. Man we are ugly!

I like this look. A Pink Doctor Phil!

That cut just looks natural on Steve

Bald is Beautiful

Almost done

The kids wanted to see what the bald head felt like

Looking good Steve!

Robin, Steve and I after the Massacure

Chrissy getting prepped to get her hair cut. A little nervous

Abby and Ally showing their support by wearing pink in their hair

"Is this really happening"

A beautiful smile

The nerves are setting in

14 Inches. Chrissy cut off 14 inches of hair. I can't tell you how proud I am of her!

Abby got the first cut.

Mum looking a little scared

Cutting off the first strand of hair

Way to go Chrissy!

Abby cutting more off

Then it was my turn!

Abby wanted another turn

All Gone...

The after picture

Gallitown at the Massacure

Here are the official before and after pictures of all of us. The kids went to the hair dresser the next day and chopped off all their hair too. Te family is looking great now!!!

Before Front

Before back

After front

After Side

After back

Family Before

Family after

Before

After

Before front

Before back

After Front

After back

Abs getting her hair cut

Man my daughter is beautiful!!!

Before front

Before after

After front

After side

Zach getting the spikes put in

Loving the Blue and Orange for the Oilers

Chrissy's 30th Birthday Party

2012-02-04T11:49:00.000-07:00

On February 2nd it was Chrissy's 30th Birthday. I was able to surprise her with a dinner out with family and friends and a special visit from her Mom and Tom & Shauna from Calgary. We had a great time at the Olive Garden and I know Chrissy felt so blessed to have all her family there to celebrate with her!

Big Zach wearing Mum's 30 glasses

Mum and Abs

Courtney brought a bunch of "Turning 30" bling for Chrissy to wear

Mike and his Mama

Ian and Christine

Tom and Shauna

Steve and Ally

Susan sitting all by herself...poor Sue...

Oh wait, she found a friend...Woody...haha

Megan and Pa

A crazy Abby eating a bread stick

Chrissy with Tom and Shauna

Syd and Abs

Mom and Sue

Two peas in a pod

Abby with her Auntie Megan

Zach hiding behind his bread stick

Courtney and Darrell

The whole table

Abby downing her pasta. She was pumped because she got to add shrimp to her pasta

Hi Syd

Now this is how it's done! Ally showing everyone how to eat spaghetti

Ma and Pa

Chrissy enjoying her dinner

Here I am with two very beautiful girls!

Chrissy loved her cupcake cake

Abby helping her Mum blow out the candles

Smiling with Mum and her cake

We call this guy Tom "One Bite" Ginn

Mission accomplished

Zach eating his cupcake

Abs eating just the icing. surprise surprise

Tom "One bite" Ginn threw down the gauntlet and then I HAD to try a one bite cupcake...

Mission accomplished

Her I am with my little Sydney

We had a great time celebrating Chrissy's birthday! Thanks to everyone for making her 30th a very special day!

Happy 30th Birthday Chrissy!

2012-02-02T08:20:00.000-07:00

Happy 30th Birthday Christine.

We love you SO much. You are the best Mum and Wife ever!

We hope you have a fantastic day!

Brian, Abby and Zach

A Few Skating and Random Pictures

2012-01-29T19:15:00.000-07:00

Below are a few pictures and videos of us skating the past 2 weeks. The kids are continuing to progress and are each getting more and more comfortable skating on their own!

Zach chasing his Mum with no skating aid

Skating with Big Poppa

Taking a break on the bench with Mum

Taking Zach for a ride

Big smiles from Zach

Abby showing off her Oiler Donut at Tim's after skating

Zach LOVED this donut! First bite: Oiler symbol!

Zach skating super fast with the skating aid

Zach skating on his own

Abby racing with her Dad

Abby cruising around the rink

Abby letting her brother win a race. She is SO awesome and caring and encouraging!

Last weekend we went over to my Mom and Dad's for a birthday celebration for Susan, Chrissy and I. Here are a few pictures and funny videos

They actually DO love each other! They are sitting in the playroom watching TV with Ally

Steve and I pulled down Dad's Pittsburgh Steelers helmet to play with. We first tried putting it on Zach and it was a little small so Steve and I HAD to try and get it on...

Steve looking like a real Pro Football player

Steve finally getting the helmet off

My turn. They easy part was getting the helmet on. The hard part? Getting it off...

Looking good Big B

This hurt so bad!

Finally this past Friday night Sue and the girls came over to hang out while Steve was at his school's track meet.

"Go Oilers Go" ~ Ally

Abs and Zach checking Uncle Burke on my new X-Box I got for my birthday

Sue re-dyed my hair pink. Just a touch up before the Massacure on February 3rd.

Happy Birthday B!!

2012-01-24T18:22:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday to the most amazing husband and father!

We love you!!

Going Pink To Beat Cancer

2012-01-16T20:03:00.001-07:00

Hi all,

As most of you know, last year I dyed my hair pink and raised money to go towards beating cancer. I was so moved and inspired during the event that I have decided to do it again this year with a couple of changes.

1. This year I have grown my hair out so the shaving will be, let's say, a little more dramatic.

2. I have a brand new team raising money with me. We have called ourselves: "Going Pink to beat cancer". Chrissy is donating at least 12 inches of her hair and Steve and I are going pink for a month and shaving our heads. Help us raise some money to beat cancer! Thanks in advance for all your generous donations!

Below is a picture of Chrissy, Steve and I with our sweet new Pink hair and then a little about the Hair Massacure. Then there is a link which you can click that will take you to our Team fundraising page where you can donate to the cause.

We are registered participants in Hair Massacure ® 2012 which will take place on February 3 in Edmonton, and February 18 in Red Deer. All funds raised from this event will be shared between the Stollery Children's Hospital Foundation ® (Pediatric Oncology), Make-A-Wish ® Northern Alberta and the Ronald McDonald House ® Northern Alberta. My goal is to raise through pledges and any donations over $25 will receive a tax receipt.

Our Team Goal is to raise $3,500.00!

To make your pledge on our Team online fundraising page click on the link below:

https://www.registrationlogic.com/hairmassacure/Fundraiser.aspx?F=323

Thank you for supporting Hair Massacure 2012.

To learn more about Hair Massacure, visit www.hairmassacure.com

Many thanks,

Brian, Chrissy and Steve

Going Pink to Beat Cancer

A Few Random Pictures

2012-01-11T21:28:00.000-07:00

I downloaded a bunch of pictures from Chrissy's Camera. There were a bunch of pictures from our Christmas season. Enjoy...

Tom and Shauna came for a visit early in December. Here is a pictures from our Big Breakfast

Zach and I at Abby's School Christmas Concert

Syd at the concert

The kids on Christmas morning

An excited Abby when she saw that she got a camera from Santa

Showing off my new Christmas Ornament that Abby made me

Taking pictures

Chrissy and her Granny

Granny playing hockey with Zach. Notice Abby cheer leading on the counter?

Grandpa and Zach showing off their chop sticks at Japanese Village

Granny and Abby at Japanese Village

Great Grandad telling Zach what the chef is doing

The whole gang at Japanese Village

Abby and Zach giving Grandpa a Time-Out

Granny skating with Zachy

Granny and Abs skating

Grandpa and Zach joking around

A nice picture at Millennium

Hockey in the Garage

2012-01-09T20:11:00.000-07:00

Zach, Ian and I went out to play hockey in the garage after dinner tonight to test out Zach's new net. It's awesome. Abby took this video and then I played with our movie editing tool and made a few parts slow motion. Pretty funny, especially Zach's SLAP SHOT!

Enjoy...

Skating at Millennium

2012-01-08T08:17:00.000-07:00

On one of our last nights before Great Granny & Grandad and Granny & Grandpa went home we went over to Millennium to do some more skating. Great Granny & Grandad watched from the side and Granny and Grandpa laced on the skates and had some fun. The kids loved skating with their grandparents!

Zach goofing off sitting with Grandpa, Great Granny and Mum

Abby showing off her skating skills

Big Zach skating away

A few videos:

Granny giving Zach a ride

Abby skating away

The kids skating

Grandpa and Zach figure skating

World Junior Hockey Championship

2012-01-06T11:42:00.000-07:00

Over the Christmas holidays the World Junior Hockey Championships have been in Edmonton and Calgary. I was fortunate enough to get to go to 4 games. Boxing day I got to go to Canada vs Finland (Canada won 8-1) and then went to the late game, USA vs Denmark (USA won 11-3). Went with Pa, Steve and Bruce and had amazing tickets! Then on the 28th I went to the Finland vs USA game (Finland won 4-1) with Brian, Great Grandad and Mike and had sweet seats in the lower bowl. Finally to the USA vs Czech game on the 30th (Czechs won 5-2). The Czech game was amazing as I got to sit front row with my wife (got sweet tickets from her boss). One of the highlights was getting my picture taken with Bob McKenzie (one of my favorite hockey analysts). Here are a few pictures and a cool video of the Czechs celebrating after their big win:

Tickets and a Program of the games I got to go to

Chrissy sitting front row during the warm-up

The game's about to start

Me and my beautiful wife

Bob McKenzie getting ready to go on air with TSN

Trying to get Bob's attention for a picture. I have to admit, I was a little giddy...

Bob was great and had no problem taking a second for a picture. I was very impressed!

During the game

The Czechs getting up after their celebration

The Czechs singing their national anthem after the big win

Below is a video of the Czechs celebrating after their win. It was so cool being right there in the front row. We were even on TSN and all the highlights the next day.

New Hockey Sticks

2012-01-04T13:48:00.000-07:00

Over the Christmas break we bought the kids new hockey sticks and gloves. Well, as you could imagine, they wanted to try them out asap! First we went out in front of the house and played a little road hockey:

Abby showing off her road hockey skills

Grandad playing hockey

Zach LOVING playing road hockey with his new stick and gloves

Big Daddy showing off his slap shot pose

Granny playing hockey

Nice hat Bri

Uncle Mike waiting for a pass

The gang out on the front street playing road hockey

Mike trying to get around the towering defenceman Zachary

Great Grandad and Abby chasing the puck

2 against 1. No Fair!

Great Granny cheerleading

Zach testing out his new stick and gloves on the front street

Go Granny Go

"Are you ready for some road hockey?"

Big Slap Shot from Abs

Game On

Then, because the weather was so nice, we decided to go over and check out the new outdoor rink they had made just down the street. The kids loved playing hockey on real ice. Especially Zach, he absolutely loved skating with a stick in his hands!

Abby trying on Daddy's hockey gloves

Face-off with Zach

Abby skating with Uncle Mike and Granny

Grandpa and Zach taking a break with Great Granny and Great Grandad

Zach and his best bud Grandpa

Grandpa skating

The kids with their new hockey sticks

Grandpa taking Abs for a ride

Zach showing off his new stick and gloves

Uncle Mike with Great Granny and Grandad

Granny figure skating

Face-off

Uncle Mike playing some hockey on the outdoor rink

Here's a little video of our road hockey game on the front street

Zumba on the Wii

2012-01-02T20:09:00.000-07:00

For Christmas Chrissy got Wii Zumba from the kids. Christmas day evening we put it in and all gave it a go. Now, it has to be said, the girls challenged Bri and I and the boys won! We did our routine at 94% and the girls came close at 91%. We all had a lot of fun and burned some calories in the process. Here are a few pictures and videos from the evening:

Granny and Grandad giving it a go. Not quite in step but definitely having fun!

The girls all dancing in step together. Great job girls!

The girls dancing in sync

Dancing and exercising

The Twin Towers strutting their stuff

Grandpa, Daddy and Abby getting it on!

Chrissy, Anne and Abby dancing

The next day Grandad and Granny wanted to try more Wii games so we set them up bowling, playing tennis and golfing

Grandad bowling

"I'm trying..." - You did a great job Granny!

Here are a few videos of us having fun dancing with the Zumba game. Now, no judging us. We are having a great time and burning calories too! haha

Chrissy, Anne and Abby dancing together

The 2 Brian's and Abs dancing

3 Generations of Kellys dancing here.

Great Granny and Grandad doing a swing routine

Abbytown

2012-01-01T19:23:00.001-07:00

Just want you all to know that Abby has started her own blog: Abbytown. Please check it out and keep checking back as she will be adding more pictures she has taken. The link is:

www.abby-town.blogspot.com

Happy New Year

Gallitown

Christmas Day

2011-12-31T11:13:00.008-07:00

On Christmas eve the kids got to open up one present. They got matching PJ's from their Mum and Dad

First is a video of the kids coming out of their rooms to see what Santa had brought them. Sorry for the choppy video work but I was just so excited!!!

Here are a few pictures from Christmas Day:

Zach with the parking garage he got from Santa

Abby and Mommy. Abby got a new camera from Santa

Abby showing Great Granny and Grandad her new camera

Abs opening up more presents

Abby playing with her new camera

Zach opening up a present with Grandpa

Abby showing off one of her presents

Chrissy showing off her new Christmas outfit

Zach playing with his new parking garage

Sporting my new Green Bay shirt I got from my wife

Zach got some new goalie pads from his grandparents for Christmas and here is Uncle Mike strapping them on for the first time

Someday I'm gonna be in the NHL stopping pucks!

Abby doing one of her new Princess word searches

Dad getting Zach's pad's all strapped on for a game with Granny

Playing hockey with Granny

Abby and Auntie Megan playing on the computer

The boys having a pre-dinner nap

Uncle Mike strapping the pads on Abby for her to try it out.

Abby playing goalie. Check out the perfect butterfly stance!

Great Granny stirring the gravy

Big Daddy about to carve the turkey. Best part about this job is you get to eat while you cut!

Zach, Abby and Ally at the kids table

Christmas dinner. From left to right: Me, Fran, Bob, Steve, Sue, Sydney, Megan, Mike, Granny Iris, Grandad Gerald, Brian, Anne and Chrissy is taking the picture.

Check back soon for pictures and videos of Gallitown doing Zumba on the Wii...

Final Gymnastics class of the season

2011-12-29T19:46:00.004-07:00

We have been very busy over the holidays. I will try to post every few days to catch you all up. I have updates on gymnastics, Christmas, skating and more.

First up is Abby's final gymnastics class of the season. Abby passed her class and is looking forward to starting up again mid-January in a class with her buddy Ryan. Here are a few pics and a couple of videos...

Abby doing the balance beam

Abby heading up to the balance beam

Abby and her teacher Nicole

Abby posing with her ribbon and her report card

Jumping on the Trampoline

Climbing the rope with help from teacher Nicole

Check back soon for pictures and videos from Christmas day

Skating with Santa

2011-12-20T13:32:00.006-07:00

This past Sunday we got to go skating with Santa at the Glen Allen Rec Centre. The kids continued to improve their skating and had some fun skating with their Auntie Megs and Uncle Ian. It was pretty funny, no matter where they were on the ice the kids needed to know where Santa was. Here are a few pictures and Videos from our afternoon of skating:

Zach and Abby posing with Santa

Zach skating away

Chrissy skating around

Zach racing his Auntie Megs

Abby chasing Santa...

Caught him!!!

Chrissy and Megs

Chrissy watching over Zach

Chrissy and the kids

Zach and Chrissy taking a break

Zachy chasing Santa

Big Daddy and Zachy close up

The gang at Tim's after skating

Abby's first School Christmas Concert

2011-12-16T20:25:00.005-07:00

Tonight was Abby's first ever School Christmas concert. It was AWESOME! I can't tell you how proud of her we are. She did a great job as you will see in the videos below. It was nice that Grammee and Grandad were able to come and bring Ally and Syd (Steve and Sue were partying). Hope you enjoy. Merry Christmas!

Zach and Big Daddy waiting for the show to begin

Little Syd playing before the show

And there's Abby dressed as a toy Butterfly with her Kindergarten buddies

Abby getting ready for the show to begin

Standing in between Max and Colby (Luigi)

Singing "Silent Night" in German (see video below)

Getting ready to sing "North Pole Diaries" (See video below)

A great smile from Abby

Here are a few videos from the evening:

Singing "Silent Night" in German

Singing "North Pole Diaries"

A Christmas Poem by the Kindergarten class called "Christmas Toys"

Singing the finale "Up Up Up in the Sleigh"

More of the finale song "Up Up Up in the Sleigh"

Swimming Lessons, Skating Week 10 and Abby at Gymnastics

2011-12-14T07:19:00.008-07:00

The kids just finished up another round of swimming lessons. Both kids did great! It was awesome this round because Abby had one of her best buddies in her class with her (Ryan) and Zach had his best bud (Ally) in his class with him. I am very proud. They are both doing a great job in the water.

Ryan jumping off the diving board. Abby wasn't ready, a little too high for her...

The girls getting ready to jump into the deep end of the pool

Zach and Ally having fun in their lessons

Back Float

Abs waiting her turn

Walking with Daddy to the hot tub

This past weekend Uncle Tom and Auntie Shauna came for a visit. It was, as always, a great time. Had a blast with TONS of laughs!

Building a big train track with Uncle Tom

Playing trains

On Saturday afternoon we decided to go to Millennium skating. The kids LOVED skating with Uncle Tom and we were all so proud of Ally as it was her first time skating EVER! She was pretty nervous but toughed it out and actually said to Zach at the end: "That was AWESOME"

Chrissy holding her own between 2 Flames fans

The gang taking a break

My beautiful Abby having a good time

Is that Taylor Hall?

Abby posing with Uncle Tom, Mum and Uncle Steve

Abby getting out onto the ice

Daddy Daughter talk

I love this picture. Daddy and Zach skating in their matching Taylor Hall Jerseys

Below are a few videos from Skating

Monday night was Abby's second last gymnastics class of the fall. She is having so much fun and doing such a great job! I thought I'd take a few pictures of her progress.

Doing a flip over the bar

Swinging

Making a face at Daddy

Abby on the parallel bars

Working the monkey bars

On the trampoline

Running

This is when Abby spotted her Dad taking pictures of her. What a silly face!

Playing on the uneven bars

Working her way into a somersault

Getting instructions from teacher Nicole

On the rope

Finishing a somersault on the balance beam

Stretching out

Hanging at Grammee and Grandad's

2011-12-08T14:22:00.003-07:00

I love this picture. This is last Friday evening when the 4 Munchkins were hanging out at my Mom and Dad's place while we were at Chrissy's Christmas party and Steve and Sue were out. Perfection!

Picture with Santa

2011-12-06T19:17:00.002-07:00

Tonight the kids went to see Santa. Abby had no fear this year. She hopped right up and told Santa what she wanted for Christmas. Zach was a little scared at first but by the end he was on Santa's knee asking him where his Reindeer were. The picture turned out great! We couldn't be happier. Merry Christmas!!!

Skating Week 9

2011-12-05T18:45:00.004-07:00

On Sunday we went for our weekly skate at the Glen Allen Rec Centre. The kids had some fun skating with their Uncle Ian, Mum and Dad. Here are a few pictures:

Abby wanted to use a skating aid for a little while. Man can she cruise with that thing! Mum and Zach are following close behind

Zach smiling big behind that cage

Mum and Zachy taking a break in the players bench

After skating we went to the usual Tim Hortons for donuts and Diet Coke

Uncle Ian being silly

A Few Videos:

Access Christmas Party

2011-12-03T12:14:00.005-07:00

Last night was Chrissy's Work Christmas party. We had a great time at the Mardi Gras themed party. Everyone was dressed up and we all partied hard, some of us more than others, right Chrissy? hehehe

Chrissy and I before the party

At the party, they had a photo booth set up with lots of props you could use. You go in it takes 4 pictures of you and then 5 seconds later it spits out a printed Christmas card for you. Very very cool and lots of fun. Chrissy and I went in twice:

Dressed as pirates with mustaches

All decked out Mardi Gras style

Jingle Bells

2011-12-01T20:31:00.001-07:00

A little song by Zach to get your Christmas season started

Skating Week 8

2011-11-28T17:52:00.004-07:00

On Sunday Zach, Uncle Ian and I went skating. Abby and Chrissy went to a birthday party for one of Abby's friends (Sabrina) at Fort Edmonton Park. Abby and Chrissy had a great time at the party as Abby got to make her own Cinnamon bun, a craft and go for a hay ride. Zach, Ian and I had a great time skating. Zach had his best day yet. He skated from the face-off dot to the goal crease to the other face-off dot to the blue line dot all on his own with no help from a skating aid. I am so proud. He didn't want to get off the ice until I told him I would take him to Tim Horton's. Here are a few pictures and videos of skating and Tim's.

Daddy with Big Zach taking a break on the bench

Zach skating with the aid. crusin' along

Skating without the aid

Eating a chocolate dipped donut after skating

Breakfast with Santa

2011-11-27T08:57:00.005-07:00

On Saturday morning we all went to "Breakfast with Santa" at the church. It was awesome. Pancakes and sausage to eat, balloon animals, Christmas music, time for the kids to play and of course a visit from Santa. The kids loved it!

Here's Zach starring down Santa. He wasn't too sure about him...

Mum with Zach and Abby. Abby was very excited to get her turn to see Santa and Zach was still a little concerned

The Russell family with Santa. Ally loved him and Syd wasn't too sure. Steve was a little scared too!

Alyssa getting her present from Santa

Abby and Kassidy posing in front of the Christmas tree

3 beautiful girls posing in front of the tree. Kassidy, Abs and Ally

Ian McKenzie was taking shots of the kids and pictures of each family with Santa. The above picture is a great on of Zach and below is a picture of Gallitown with Santa

Skating Week 7

2011-11-24T14:32:00.005-07:00

Last night we took the kids skating. My Mom and Dad came along to skate with Abs and Zachy. The kids are continuing to improve. I am so proud!

Abby is continuing to improve. Here she is skating next to the boards

Zach skating with his Mum and Grammee (I think he is faster then both of them!)

Go Zach Go

Big smiles from my boy

Abby skating with Grandad

Abby skating under the Grandparent bridge

Zachy skating with Grammee and Grandad

"I did it!"

Grammee and Abby taking a break

Gramme skating around the rink

Below are a couple of videos. One of each of the kids to show you their progress.

Swimming Lessons and getting ready for Christmas

2011-11-21T17:52:00.007-07:00

The kids are in swimming lessons right now. Every Thursday night we take them to the Sherwood Park Kinsmen Pool. Zach is in a class with his best buddy Ally and Abby is in a class with her best bud Ryan.

Playing with a boat in class

Ally swimming around

Zach heading back to his spot on the stairs

Zach's turn to do a belly float

Ally with her boat

Abby swimming with the teachers help

No help from teacher. All on her own

Waiting for her turn on the edge of the pool

Check me out Dad!

Zach and Ally waiting for instruction from their teacher

A big smile from Ally after class

On Saturday evening we decided it was time to put up the Christmas decorations.

Abby and Mum starting to decorate the tree

Check out the candy cane Dad!

Abby putting an ornament on the tree

Zachy decorating

Abby and Zach decorating

Reaching up high

Daddy putting on a few ornaments

Dad and Zach decorating

Zach taking a break to give Duke a big hug

Zach and Abby posing with our Christmas Town

Family picture with the tree in the background

The kiddies smiling nice

My beautiful daughter

Abs wanted to decorate the back of the tree. I think she might be stuck.

Abby then wanted to take some pictures so we let her tell us what to do. She loves taking pictures on her own!

Daddy striking a pose

Taking a picture of Mommy

Mum and Dad

Below are 2 pictures of our town that I took tonight. You'll notice that all the people, trees, etc are down as if a tornado went through. Well, it wasn't a tornado. Zach told me that the giant sheep from one of our nativity scenes went through town and knocked over all the people. If you look close you can see the giant sheep...

Poor town

They just couldn't handle the giant sheep! haha

T-Birds vs The Hitmen

2011-11-12T18:45:00.004-07:00

Last night we saw Burke play in Calgary against the Hitmen. They won 5-4 and Burke had 2 assists and was 3rd star in the game.
We again had a blast cheering Burke on! Great times with family and friends. Lots of laughs (Tom's dancing) and some hard core cheering (My throat is raw and sore).
Great Alberta road trip Burke! You played well and we loved cheering you on!

If that's not the cutest cheerleader I don't know what is!

Zach showing off the Galli Rally sign

Cheering Burke on

What a good looking bunch of T-Birds fans

Burke distributing pucks in warm-up

Tom sporting some sweet T-Birds gear

Getting warmed up

Auntie Courtney with her little munchkins

The Galli Rally! Notice how John (Burke's Dad) won't sit near me? It's because we cheer too loud and embarrass him! haha

Skating Week 6

2011-11-10T12:23:00.002-07:00

The kids are doing so well on the ice. Zach is starting to skate on his own and Abby is continuing to improve. I am one proud poppa!

T-Birds Hockey

2011-11-06T07:54:00.005-07:00

As most of you know, my little cousin Burke plays hockey for the Seattle Thunderbirds of the WHL. Seattle only makes an Alberta trip once every 2 years so we were very excited when we found out we'd be able to go to a few of Burke's games this year.
On Friday night, the kids and I picked Chrissy up from work and we drove to Red Deer to watch the T-Birds play the Red Deer Rebels. The T-Birds lost 8-2 but Burke had the first T-Birds goal that gave us lots to cheer about.
Last night we went to Rexal place and watched the T-Birds play the Oil Kings. Unfortunately the T-Birds lost 4-1 and Burke had no points. The Galli Rally was out in full force as I believe we had 40+ in our Rally cheering Burke and the T-Birds on.
Here are a few pics from last night:

Gallitown in front of the Gretzky Statue at Rexal Place

Burke in Warm-up

Passing pucks out to the guys

Shooting pucks on Calvin Pickard

Warming up the goalie

After the game we headed down to wait for Burke to congratulate him on a good game

Zachy waiting for Uncle Burke. Very Cute...

Go Uncle Burke Go

Abs waiting with Big Poppa

Burke came out and to our surprise he had brought 2 bags of T-Birds gear for the Galli Rally. Everyone got a new T-Birds hat, Steve and I got new shirts and the kids got light up glasses. It was very thoughtful of Burke and we all really appreciated it!

Next week we are heading to Calgary on the 11th to watch him play the Calgary Hitman at the Saddledome. Can't wait!

Go T-Birds Go

We are VERY proud of you Burke!

Skating Week 5

2011-11-03T19:35:00.004-06:00

Skating went well Sunday afternoon. Zach did a bit of skating on his own without the skating aid and Abby is continuing to improve without any help!

Zach getting a pep talk from Dad

My beautiful Ice Princess

Abby skating on her own

Zach skating a tiny bit on his own

Halloween 2011

2011-11-01T09:43:00.003-06:00

Last night the kids had a great time Trick or Treating. They just loved watching all the other kids running around the neighborhood and thought all the houses were pretty cool all decorated for Halloween.

Batgirl and Batman

Getting ready to go. Posing with the cool pumpkins we carved.

Heading to their first house

"Trick or Treat"

Going door to door

Zach's Birthday Party

2011-10-29T21:37:00.008-06:00

On Friday night we bought a bunch of pumpkins and carved them to decorate for Zach's Birthday Party and to put out on Monday night for Halloween.

The gang carving their pumpkins

Grandpa cleaning out a pumpkin

Zach and I digging the guts out of the pumpkin

A video of Zach scooping guts out of the pumpkin

GROSS!

Abby wasn't a fan of the guts

Carving my Pumpkin

Here are all the carved pumpkins. Pretty cool I'd say!

Saturday it was time for Zach's Birthday Party. We all got dressed up and had a great time

Gallitown all dressed up

Granny the Nurse and Abby the Ariel Princess

A couple of Batmans

Batman will have someone to look after him after all his crime fighting activities

3 Batman's. So cool! I feel safe!

Joker (Keith) vs Batman (Ian)

All the kids dressed up. From left to right: Tinkerbell (Ally), Pink Leopard (Sydney), Ariel Princess (Abby), Strawberry Shortcake (Lexi), Harry Potter (Jonah), Batman (Zach) and Anakin Skywalker (Logan)

Big smiles from Syd

Opening Presents

Zach and Ally fooling around

Big hugs for Sydney

The Perry family all dressed up

The whole crew dressed up. Some pretty awesome costumes!!!

Time to blow out the candles on the sweet Batman cake

So excited after blowing out the candles!

Mmmmm Yummy Candy

Lexi eating her cupcake

I think Logan is REALLY enjoying his cupcake

What a goofball!

Little Ally eating her cupcake. Very cute!

Bethany and Megan partying

This is the sexiest Batman I have ever seen!

Nurse Granny

Grandpa and Grammee playing with Syd

A big bite of cupcake from Chrissy the Pirate

A tired birthday boy playing with his new Batman Monster Trucks

Chrissy made this sweet new train track for Zach after the party

Auntie Megan and Abby making bead necklaces

Skating Week 4

2011-10-28T15:26:00.001-06:00

Abby's Birthday Party

2011-10-23T13:43:00.019-06:00

To start the party off, we got the kids up to the table and they each got to decorate their own Candy Apple

Grammee helping with the Candy Apples

Ryan decorating her Candy Apple

Kassidy designing her Candy Apple

Ally and her Mom dipping in Caramel

Zach and Ryan all pumped up

Jack and his Mom getting started

Logan dipping his apple into the caramel sauce

Auntie Sue helping out Kassidy and Ally with the Candy Apples

The kids making their candy apples

Hmmmmmmmmmm what should we put on our apples?

Lisa helping the boys decorate their apples

Abby and Ryan

Katelyn standing with her Mom

After we decorated the Candy Apples it was time for a scavenger hunt. Chrissy and I had hidden buckets of treats through out the house and the kids had to go find them to fill up their loot bags.

Here I am giving instructions to the kids

The mob heading downstairs to look for loot

Chrissy helping the kids out

The boys checking out their Loot. Jack, Zach and Logan

The mob found another bucket full of treats

Lisa helping the kids fill up their loot bags

Searching for more loot

Jack found one! "Everyone over here"

Abby showing off some of the treats she found on the scavenger hunt

After the scavenger hunt we lined the kids up and let them take turns taking big swings at a princess pinata.

Chrissy giving "safety" instructions to the kids before they take their swings

Abby was first to go and she took a couple of big swings with her Mum's help

Logan's turn to take a mighty swing

Kassidy hit the pinata hard!

Ally swinging hard

Jack with a mighty swing

Ryan's turn to take a whack

Zach swinging hard at the pinata

Ryan with a big swing

Each kid with a ribbon.

Ok, no one was strong enough to bust open the pinata so we all take a ribbon and PULL!

A mad scramble for the candy after the pinata was broken open

Candy everywhere!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

And of course the kids scatter and collect all the goodies

After we were done laying a beating on the pinata we got back up to the table and each kid was able to decorate their own cupcake.

All the kids sitting patiently waiting to decorate cupcakes

Time to decorate cupcakes

Josh decorating his cupcake

Sue helping Ally with her cupcake

Watch out Jack! I think your dad is eyeing your cupcake!

Uncle Mike helping Logan decorate his cupcake

Kassidy working on her cupcake

Jack and his dad decorating a cupcake

Abby and Josh decorating their cupcakes

Ally making the perfect cupcake

"When do I get to eat this thing?"

After the kids decorated their personal cupcake Chrissy brought out Abby's cake and we all sang Happy Birthday to her!

Abby checking out her Princess Cake

Abby blowing out the candles

The candles all blown out

After the candles were all blown out the kids were able to eat the cupcakes they had made

Abby excited to eat the cupcake she made

Jack chowing down

Abby and Josh

Abby being silly showing Uncle Mike (taking the pictures) the food in her mouth

Zach goofing off while eating his cupcake

Ally taking a big bite of cupcake

Big Zach chowing down on his cupcake

After the kids ate cupcakes they watched/helped Abby open up her presents

Katelyn watching the kids

The kids sitting so well while watching Abby open the presents they brought for her. What a GREAT group of kids. They were so well behaved and helped make this such a great day for Abby!

Abby opening more gifts.

Luke watching the kids

Abby opening a gift from Jack

Big Hugs for Logan

Opening up a gift from Ryan

Hugs for her buddy Ryan

The party was awesome. I think all the kids had a great time and Abby had a blast. She was spoiled by all her family and friends. Thanks to everyone who came. You made it a truly memberable day for Abby!

Happy Birthday Abby

2011-10-19T20:41:00.004-06:00

Happy 5th Birthday Abigail

Mum and Dad are so proud of you! You amaze us everyday with your contagious laugh, how smart you are, how caring you are, how absolutely beautiful you are and so much more.

We hope you have a fantastic and fun day

Love Mummy and Daddy

Skating - Week 3

2011-10-17T08:40:00.003-06:00

We took the kids skating again this week. Grammee and Grandad dusted off their skates and joined us as well. The kids again continued to improve. Abby is starting to skate on her own without the help of the skating aid and Zach is starting to skate on his own with the help skating aid. I am so proud of both the kids! I can't wait until next week!

Ice Skating

2011-10-10T08:14:00.007-06:00

All of last winter Abby was asking Chrissy and I to take her skating. We kept on saying next year, next year and now the time has come. We went out and bought Zach, Abby and Chrissy some new skates and I dusted of my old pair. We then committed to the kids that we would take them skating once a week on Sunday afternoons. Here's what happened:

First a video

Zach, Abby and Mum skating

Big smiles from Abby

"I'm a hockey player!"

"look at me go"

Below is a video of Abby skating

Easy does it...

Mum helping Zach out while Abby is cruzin' along

Wipe Out

Taking a break in the players bench

Watching the other skaters

Lovin' it

Daddy helping Zachy out

Abby skating around the rink

A video of Abby trying to skate without the aid. Great job Abby!

Figure Skater?

After skating we decided we would start another tradition and that is going to Tim's for a snack. As you can see the kids loved their donuts!

Zach goofing off and the girls smiling nice. The usual.

This is a video Chrissy took on her iphone. Week 2 of skating. Abby is really starting to give er!

Happy Anniversary

2011-10-09T08:17:00.005-06:00

Today is Chrissy and my 7th Anniversary. We have had an amazing seven years and I cannot wait to see what's in store for the many more anniversaries to come. I love you Chrissy!

Today is also my Cousin Courtney's Birthday. Happy birthday Courtney. Thank you so much for all you do for this family. We all love you so much! We hope you have a great day!

Hockey Pool

2011-10-08T10:00:00.003-06:00

He got up in my big chair on his own and just started reading my hockey pool magazine. I hope this is a sign of things to come. I absolutely LOVE this picture!

The Russell's and Gallitown Pictures from our extended Photo Shoot with Auntie Courtney

2011-10-06T10:10:00.006-06:00

Gallitown Photo Shoot with Auntie Courtney

2011-10-05T08:32:00.009-06:00

A Few September Randoms

2011-09-26T12:18:00.010-06:00

September has been a busy month. We have done a bunch of fun things so I thought I would share a few:

Early in September Chrissy, Susan and Naomi went to see Josh Groban at Rexal. Our friend Shauna from Calgary was supposed to go but she wound up too sick to make the drive. Poor Shauna. But, I am pleased to say she is back up and running and healthy again! Even though Shauna couldn't be there the girls went and had a great time. The best part was how close to the stage their tickets were. They LOVED being that close to Mr. Groban.

Sue and Chrissy waiting for the concert to start

Josh Groban. See, told you they were close

Naomi and Josh!

Sing Groban Sing!!!

He's really into this one

Groovin

I know we have posted a lot about Abby's first days of Kindergarten but it is pretty huge for our family. We are so proud of Abby and so far she is doing so awesome!

Walking to school on the first day

Waiting to line up at the Kindergarten doors

All grown up! Geez, where does the time fly?

Lined up ready to go

Abby had only been in daycare of a week when she was invited to one of her friends (Ainsley) birthday parties. What was cool, was that one of her gymnastics friends (Ryan) was invited too. Small world. They had a great time at Ainsley's princess party!

Ryan and Abby

Princess Abby

All the girls dressed up at the party

In the banquet hall

This next pick was just cute

Zach and Ally snuggled up to Auntie Megs reading stories

Last Friday night Uncle Morley gave us tickets to the Eskimo game. The Eskimos lost but we had a great time taking the kids!

Is that Zach or a real football player?

Zach and Daddy on the train heading to the game

Mum and Abs on the train heading to the game

This is a cool picture of the lights st the stadium as the sun set.

Last Saturday Ian was racing in Wetaskiwin. His last race of the year. He won rookie of the year and won a huge trophy! We are so proud of you Ian! You did a great job!

Ian and Ib working on the car in the pits (#55 black and purple car)

Ian doing is time trials

#55 is the first heat. Ian's in first!

They go pretty fast! Ian scared Chrissy a few times thinking he was going to go crashing into the wall. It was awesome.

Taco in a bag! What will they think of next?

Chrissy and Ian in front of his car after the race

Chrissy in the car. She was so cute. She got so giddy...

I managed to climb in. I can't believe how small of a space they give you to drive. I guess safety first. It's pretty impressive what Ian does! I was very proud!

One of the #5's on Ian's car. Anyone who sponsored him got their name on the number. If you look close you will recognize a few names.

Blow is a video of Ian racing. It will give you a bit better idea of what he does. Very cool.

Kindergarten Orientation Day

2011-09-17T15:31:00.005-06:00

Abby has now been in Kindergarten for 2 weeks. She is loving school. She comes home and has learnt something new each day. Next time you see her get her to tell you the months of the year or the days of the week!

Below are a few pictures from her very first day. A Kindergarten orientation day where Chrissy got to go with Abby to check things out.

Getting ready to go to Kindergarten! Yahoo!

Mrs. Holm reading to the kids

The kids learning in front of the smart board

Singing and Dancing using the smart board. Very cool. Abby loves it

Here are the kids singing and dancing using the smart board

A Visit from Great Grandma & Great Grandpa

2011-09-10T09:52:00.005-06:00

Last weekend my Grandparents from Ottawa came for a visit. It was great to see them and the kids loved playing with them.

Zach and Great Grandpa playing tucks

Zach and Great Grandma playing basketball

Great Grandpa reading to Abby

Great Grandma reading to Zach

All ready for church

Abby & Great Grandma

Brian and I with our Grandmas who have been friends for 61 years!!!

Great Grandma Grace, Abby and Great Grandma Venables

Grandma Grace, Grandpa Ted and Grandma Laura

Zachy showing Great Grandpa how to play the drums

Singing "Happy Birthday" to Mike and Grandpa while on Skype with Mum and Dad

Abby reading Great Grandpa his birthday card

Abby & Zach gave Uncle Mike a Yo-Yo kit

The Yo-Yos entertained these two for quite a while!

Great Grandpa teaching Abby how to Yo-Yo

It was a wonderful visit and made me wish we lived closer.