Mommy and Her Babes

ROAR.....means Happy Birthday

2012-01-29T11:12:00.000-08:00

James' favorite surprise for his birthday was having his Nana and Papa (with horses) from Canada come celebrate with him. They are some of his favorite people in his life.

What we did:

Everyone made their own dinosaur birthday hats, with spikes and stickers

We went dinosaur fishing for prices

Mom did a dinosaur dig with all the kids. They loved it, it got messy, but it was well worth it.

We ate pizza, appetizers and some dinosaur grub

We all put on our big dinosaur feet and stomped to the Dinosaur song

Nana (with pokies) helped with pin the tail on the T-rex

Rachel helped me with holding James' favorite book out for all to see, while he read almost every word from it ( by memory of course)

James and everyone loaded up on candy

Papa made a volcano and set it off. All the kids were so excited and amazed.

Then we unwrapped all the presents. He sure got spoiled from all his friends and people that love him.

Then we made mini volcano drinks for all the kids. OWWW...... AHHH......

Meanwhile, it was time for James to blow out his THREE candles. He loved the dinosaur cake I made him. He even helped assemble all the dinosaurs around the volcano.

Right before we tore into the cake to eat, I let them all pick out a dinosaur from the cake that they wanted to take home with them. They all got a early taste of the cake and got to examine the volcano go off too.

For the last activity we all got our own dinosaur eggs and got to open the veiny eggs up. I think some of the kids really thought they were actual dinosaur eggs, because they were all different veiny colors.

This was the first birthday I have thrown that was dedicated entirely to James. I invited all his friends (not mine) and I was just focused on him and his friends the whole time ( hardly any mingling for me). And it was a total success. He has been talking about this day for a long time, and now it is over and done with. He is still as obsessed with dinosaurs and plays with them everyday.

Thanks so much to friends and family for coming and making this day so special for James. Thanks for the presents and love you gave him and give to him whenever you see him.

It creates smiles like this, and these smiles are worth more than any words can describe.

During his birthday he was especially happy to have his best friend, Grace, his Nana with pokies and his Nana and Papa with horses (insider to distinguish the different grandparents) and his awesome cousins and fun friends.

Prior to his big Birthday party which was thrown on the weekend, we celebrated his birthday with the family, doing his favorite thing. First off we had pancakes with THREE candles in them.

James was very excited to blow them out and was the biggest sweetheart when he even saved the last one for baby to blow out (without us even asking to include her).

Then we went to his favorite place, The Bean Museum. He is a total animal lover and relishes every minute when he is around such cool animals. He could walk around that place for hours and play in the toy room full of animals all day long. So yes, we were there for a while. But is was his big day and he loved every minute.

To end the night out, we went out for ice-cream, his favorite.

HAPPY 3rd BIRTHDAY stud.
I love you to infinity and beyond and YES, even more than dinosaurs. And that's better than anything he cares about these days.

Finally.......

2012-01-09T21:54:00.000-08:00

James was Potty Trained 1 week before he turned 3!

A while back, right before he turned 2, I patted myself on the back because my little James was potty trained before his 2nd birthday. He was so excited about the buzz stool, his buzz toilet seat and all the Buzz Lightyear stickers he'd receive when he went pee pee or poo poo in the toilet. Sad to say.......it was only for a month though. We went to visit my family in Canada and help my sister, yet I was not persistant with him and when we returned he was not potty trained anymore and he didn't want to have anything to do with it either.

So throughout his 2nd year of life I probably tried 4 other times. Tried with excitement, stickers, games, even candy. But he would not budge. Everyone told me that when he was ready he would just be ready. I didn't believe it because I knew he had already done it and could do it. So each time I tried, I felt like I was on his case and he just hated going to the toilet, it was a little fight I finally would just give up on and hope for results next time.

Well his 3rd Birthday was soon approching, and I kept on telling James that if he wanted his Dinosaur Birthday Party he would have to be Potty trained. I told him this as far back as July probably and he really showed no interest but talked continually about his Dino party.

Well it was a week before his birthday and like everyone said.... HE JUST GOT IT. It was so easy. I bought new dinosaur stickers and he was able to decorate a dinosaur picture. He was excited and I didn't even have to put up a fight with him. Sure he had accidents, but he would have them as he was running to the toilet, so he knew what was going on. So I am now a mother that totally believes the tale said by many mothers that When your little boy is ready to be potty trained he's ready. I would have not been so persistanton trying to get him to be potty trained if I knew it would have been this easy at the end.

I must admit, it is so great not having to change two diapers and having a little man that will actually take off his pullup in the morning and change into his own big boy underwear. That's a proud momma moment. As all you mothers out there may agree. Plus, Little his little bum is just so dang cute in his little undies too.

James is 3!!

2011-11-10T00:04:00.000-08:00

I am so proud of this little guy.

He is 3 and potty trained!

It wasn't the easiest thing, but like everyone said, "when he is ready, he's ready" and sure enough as I tried yet again, this time it clicked and he pretty much trained himself without me always on his case about it.

He is going to the bathroom by himself, dressing a number of times a day by himself and he is just super independent. He wants to do everything himself. He is a big guy now, he keeps on telling me.

And I completely agree, he is so big now. As I look at pictures just 6 months ago he has changes immensely.

One thing about James is that he is a super good boy. He never hit his terrible 2's and I just hope there are no terrible 3's. He makes really good choices and just is so worried about other people, especially his baby sister. He is her protector, and I love that he is always thinking about her. He always adds,"And baby too?"

James is a very happy boy, unless he is tired. He is such a teaser too, and he really does have me rolling on the ground sometimes with what he says or does.

I love how James is a total softy too with me. So many times if I am sitting or laying next to him he will just look at me and say "Mommy, I love you most!" and I know he means it so much. We often have Love You Wars where we tell each other how much we love each other and we always try to out Love each other. He's told me he loves me "the whole world and beyond". Almost everyday he will kiss me and just make me feel so special. I just treasure those moments where he stops for a second and realizes that I need to be told I am loved from him too.

He is my best friend and my complete buddy.

I love how well mannered he is. He is very good at saying please and thank you. He is becoming a champ at cleaning up after himself and doing certain chores.

Food is still only an after thought. He eats to survive, while Rachel eats all the time. Yet, if it's pizza, sweets or fruit he'll gobble it up.

James never stops. He is such a busy body that is always going going going. There are only a few times that I have seen him fall asleep in the middle of building his mounds and forts of blankets and cushions, where he actually just falls asleep in the middle of it. That just tells you how busy he is. He has always loved books, and whenever we go to the library all he wants is Dinosaur books (and not the animated ones, the real ones)

See even at the big dance party on main street during Fiesta days, he fell asleep on daddy's shoulders. And believe it or not, he was actually dancing just a few minutes before this.

James and Rachel are great friends. If Rachel is not in the room, he always asks where Rachel is and she is usually sleeping. Some mornings I will wake up and hear noises coming from Rachel's room and sure enough, James has hopped into Rachel's bed and is just playing with her. He is such a good big brother and I totally trust him with her alone. He would never intentionally hurt her.

He is awesome at eating by himself, even though he shovels it into his mouth at a rate to fast to swallow. It's as though he thinks it's going to disappear so he has to hurry. He does well with utensils most of the time. And he is still a total milk drinker. If he had it his way he would only drink milk for all meals, all day, every day.

Outdoors is his favorite place to be. He's always in the backyard doing something. He is so curious and loves to collect treasures (rocks, sticks, etc). He is pure BOY!

He is very easy to entertain if you have stuff for him to do. But if you don't he WANTS something to do.

His favorite shows are Dinosaur Train and Diego.

Hands down, his best friend is Grace. They play almost everyday with each other. They both love dinosaurs so much and have very similar interests. About 80% of the time they are best friends, while the other 20% they are worst enemies. They still don't share the greatest, but they are doing better then how it used to be. Almost every morning he wakes up and says "Play with Grace?"

Cousins are so much fun. He is blessed to have so many that love to be around him.

They love to rustle. But without a doubt. James' favorite person to rustle with is Daddy.

James loves movie night, especially when friends come over, we make a fort and we eat popcorn.

He thinks he's so cool and so do all his friends.

He is a complete goof and has such an imagination. He is always talking to his toys and has them talking to each other. It is so entertaining to watch him play.

He's a total jabber box and loves to talk, especially on the phone. He'll go off and the person on the line will just listen and then he'll stop for a second and say, "You still there" and keep talking.

And even when he's bad, he's never really that bad.

I love this picture, just cause he knows he's in trouble while he's serving his time out...... But how could I really be that mad at him when his bum is just way to cute.

There are times where we have to be stern with James, just so that he will learn respect and understand what is right and wrong, but where Josh and I are kind of snickering behind his back because he is funny, manipulative or plain smart.

James is a pure joy to have in our family. We feel so blessed to have such a perfect little guy in our lives. Life would never be as enjoyable and wonderful without this cutie pie to wake up to, spend the whole day with and put to sleep.

Small moments, as well as big moments with in the long, yet so short 3 years are treasured with memories, pictures and thoughts of my growing boy who used to be just a small baby.

He is now 3 YEARS OLD, and such a big boy.

But he will always be my sweet baby James.

I'll love you forever,

I'll like you for always.

As long as eternity

My baby you'll be.

XOXOX

Happy Birthday Son

All my love to you James,

Mommy

Halloween was a WHOLE NEW WORLD for my little ones.......

2011-11-06T23:50:00.000-08:00

This year James wanted to be a tiger, so I had to find characters for all of us to dress in themed costumes. So here you have it..... ALADDIN! Her is me, Jasmine, with my little tiger Rajah. Followed by Jafar, the most powerful Genie in the world, and his side-kick Iago. Rachel and James made this whole Halloween experience so much fun.

This Halloween lasted a whole week and we loved every minute of it.
From decorating (even though I couldn't find all my decorations since they are in storage) with spider webs and home-made decor, to pumpkin carving with cousins, dressing up 3 times, trick of treating and eating way to much candy.

We had an awesome ward party with a chili cook-off and trunk or treat.

One reason I love Spanish Fork is because of the little yearly fun things they do every year. They had main street trick or treating, where all the stores and businesses give candy out, scarecrows everywhere and some fun activities to do on the way. It's a pretty big deal with about 500 plus people trick or treating in the afternoon.

Even the fire department had a display. They took us into the ambulance truck and there was a mummy all covered up. James looked a little worried at first, until we explained to him what it really was.

Stopping off for popcorn. Kinda nice having something salty, rather then sweet.

This was our favorite scarecrows this year. Hands down, the potato heads win!

Rachel was the winner at the cake walk. Go girl, go!

Finally the big day came and I made a big deal out of it just by creating a new family tradition. Each Halloween morning I will make orange pumpkin shaped pancakes and the kids get to decorate them with fruit. They loved it and it and they were pretty much devoured.

Then later on we went to Nana's house to show off our costumes. She went trick or treating with us to a few homes.

James totally got it this year. He would slam on the door (kinda quietly) then he'd say "Tick or teet", followed by "Tank You" and smile. Then he was off to the next house.

As for Rachel she caught on too, she would just smile and everyone would comment on how cute she was. She held onto her trick or treat bag so tightly and would not let go even when it was getting pretty heavy.

Our kids looooove candy just a bit to much.
And my husband was such a great sport. I know he doesn't love dressing up, but I loved that he was more willing to then most years. It is just that it's much more fun for the kids and I when we are all decked out. I mean it's all about the kids right...... and I guess me!(Josh says I like Halloween more than the kids do, and that may be true. I just love Halloween, and I get so excited to dress up and plan for the big event).

We then met up with some really fun friends and ate some good grub at Pizza Factory.

Went Trick or Treating again cause James asked and then ended up going to our other friends Halloween party were there was awesome food and fun chit chat.

We won BEST COSTUME! That was exciting- $10 to Cold Stone.

Happy Halloween from my little tiger who ROARs all the time and my little Parrot who squawks A LOT.

Just had to add this picture, she likes dressing up in this kitty cat costume, so I took some pictures and this was my favorite.

It's my little kitty with her prey (her favorite stuffed animal of all time).

I know my kids wish Halloween was everyday of the year.

Free candy and the only day they can eat as much as they want (at least until we take it away).

James' Quotable and Notables

2011-09-26T14:55:00.000-07:00

During nursery today James was watching a bunch of girls twirl around in their dresses and call each other princesses.

He looked at them and said "My mommy is a princess." Then he followed with".....and my daddy is awesome."

Whenever I grad something for James or ask him to get something for any one of us, he always adds "for baby too." It's like he doesn't want Rachel to feel left out. He is a super big brother. You can totally tell that Rachel thinks his brother is special, because he always wants to be doing what he is doing or she will even start trying to rustle with him.

The other day I was cleaning a really stinky and messy diaper of Rachel's. I look over at James and there he was bringing me a garbage bag to put the messy diaper in.....wwithout even being asked. That made me proud.

For a while James has been waking up at 7:00 sharp each morning and coming into our bedroom and wanting to lay with us. Of course that is just an hour to early for us so we let him. Yet, we don't sleep much because he moves around like a crazy guy with the wiggles. Well on two mornings last week he surprised us and made his own little bed with pillows and blankets next to our bed and let us sleep for at least an extra hour with no interruptions.

Today he actually dressed himself with no help what so ever. He got his shirt on the right way, yet his shorts were on backwards. He is a growing boy and really independent now.

He is at the age now where he just helps himself to stuff in the fridge and doesn't even make a mess. He gets his own drink of water off the water dispenser on the fridge and he is a jabber box now days.

Today he found out that one of his favorite dogs, his Auntie Amber's dog had to get her leg amputated. I explained to him what that meant and why and he was so worried. He talked to Amber on the phone and just kept raising his 3 fingers and saying "3 legs Skeeter." He was so sad and concerned for the poor little doggy.

James' favorite new activity is making forts, and yes I am the one that taught him how to make them. Yet he has gone to a whole new level of pulling off every single blanket, sheet, pillow and stuffed animal off all the beds and dragging them to the spot he wants to make the fort. Last week I felt like I was cleaning after him continually, until I finally realized that it is ok and he is just being a total boy. Now I just let him do it and spare my time of making beds and cleaning continually all day. I just let him play and then he helps me clean it up for the rest of the day and than he's at it again the next day.

He has had such a tender heart lately. We will be doing something and he will just touch me or look at me and say "Mommy, I love you." And what makes it that much better is that it is not only a few times a day, but like 10 times a day. And he will even add, "I love you the most in the entire world. "
Oh bless this good little boys heart.

You could win a special on a photography session by ME!!

2011-09-20T18:17:00.000-07:00

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Hope you all enjoy. Spread the word and hope to be taking your pictures soon.

Pink Party for our Pretty Princess

2011-09-18T16:27:00.000-07:00

On August 4th last year this beauty was given to us.

She entered this life as a pure beautiful daughter of God that I am so happy God intrusted me with her, to raise her the best I know how and to love her as much as I can.

She truly is a gift and one I am so in love with.

She has grown way to fast in a year. She started walking and being more independent a week after her 1st birthday. She loves her food and prefers the real stuff now. She'll eat some baby food if I can squeeze it in. But most of the time she says"No way" in her own little squeaks.

Rachel defiantly has a very strong personality. She is so much different than our little guy.

She is a pure on girl in almost all ways. She let's us know if she wants something and many times if she doesn't get what she wants, she cries. When she sees shoes or hair accessories she tries to put them on. But she is a grabber of the bows and tries to rip them off her head when we go places and I want them on her. She is very sensitive. If someone says no she gets so sad and starts to cry.

But along with sensitive she is very tough too with her brother. They get along so well and love to wrustle. James is pretty good at being gentle enough, but Rachel has sure had to toughen up in order to stay in the game. Rachel also loves wrustling with Daddy. She just laughs and laughs and laughs. Such a cute sound to the ears. She loves peek-a -boo and loves to clap her hands when she accomplishes something.

Our little Roo is still a mommy's girl but has weaned herself off of me a lot more. She will go to most people now and be fine. She is still nursing like a champ. Even though she is one, I haven't even started thinking about ending it cause it is just so easy for both of us. She let's me know when she wants the goods though, by tugging on my shirt and putting her finger in her mouth. She is an awesome sleeper if she is in her bed. Yet, in the car or in my arms she is so active and will fight sleep at all costs.

HER PINK PARTY!!!

We had friends and family join us for her party up at one of our new favorite places, The Spanish Fork Reservoir. Many came for a BBQ, cake and some even went swimming.

Rachel had her first cake, but not her first taste of sweets. I was a lot more lenient since she was not my 1st child. She surprised me, I thought she'd dig in and eat it up like a little piggy, but she took her time and petted the cake a few times. Finally I had to give her a taste from my own finger and she still was such a girl and wasn't messy at all. I had to questions..... "Where is my Rachel?"

All in all Rachel had a ton of fun and so did everyone else.

And she is officially 1 years old.

Thanks to everyone for coming to support our little lady.
Sorry we didn't open gifts until the next morning, since the night got so late so fast and we were having to much fun down by the water.

Thanks to everyone for the wonderful gifts and just for loving Rachel.

Unwrapping gifts was fun for her and she tugged at the paper but didn't totally understand the whole process. But don't you worry we had brother help us out and he knew exactly what to do.

Happy 1st Birthday Cutie Petutie!

We LOVE you so much.

Love MOMMY,DADDY

and

Brother JAMES

James' Quotables and Notables

2011-09-17T22:49:00.000-07:00

Tonight James is having a sleepover at his Nana's house.

This is a great thing. But also a sad thing.

Knowing that he is alright without his mommy tucking him in, giving him his sippy of milk, reading and singing to him and cuddling.

He is so big now and Mr. Independent.

He now tells me all the time....."I do it."

He doesn't need much help anymore.

He eats pretty neat most of the time with a utensil,

He puts on his shoes all my himself most of the time. He can get things out of the fridge all by himself. He hasn't totally gotten the whole dressing thing down. But he will grab clothes and ask me to help him.

I guess I just never thought this independence would come so quickly.

I look at him and know he will always be MY BABY. But to him I must say he is my BIG BOY. Because he is not little like baby sister.

I called him and said good night to him tonight and he was so cute as he explained what movie he was watching. Then I told him that I loved him and he said "me too mommy". I am so glad he has such a great relationship with his Nana's. He really does feel so special around them.
Nana told me that he was watching something on tv and on this show I guess the boy said something mean about his mommy and James turned to Nana and said "change this Nana."

He is my little buddy for all eternity and I am so lucky to watch him grow and become such an amazing young boy......and one day man.

You'll keep growing baby James and all I can do is watch.

1 Years Old Today

2011-08-03T23:30:00.000-07:00

How was I so lucky to of given birth to this special little girl exactly a year ago?

She has taught me so much and has grown to be so special to all of us.

She has the smile that can light up the room.

We have big plans for her 1st birthday.

It's a big deal,

because she has been with us for 365 days and I have been by her side every single one of them.

This is the beginning of many girly, pink and princessy birthdays.

Daddy's Day

2011-08-02T11:48:00.000-07:00

We are so lucky to have such a wonderful daddy in our family. He is what holds us together. He is the life of the party and we are always laughing with him around. He spends time with us, he takes care of us and protects us, he teaches us about becoming better and how to be a good person. He is our hero and our best friend.

I am so happy he is the daddy of my children. He is the greatest and I know that James and Rachel love him to pieces. He is so stinkin' good looking and he is the best man!!

We love you DADDA!!

Daddy's Day was Delightful.

James helped make breakfast for daddy.
French Toast and Fruit.

Rachel and James colored a card for him too.


As a new father's day tradition, each of us had a candle in their breakfast lit. Since every child think blowing out candles is the bomb, it was fun watching their faces as everyone had one to themselves. We went around the table and each one of us had to say something that they love the most about daddy. Then when it came to daddy at the end he told us his favorite thing about being their daddy.

Daddy: "Now I have 2 buddies and friends for life. I just loves my little ones more than anything else in the world. My favorite word Dada."

Mommy: "Daddy is well rounded, loves the gospel and is the best and most fun daddy around. I love that he loves us as much as we love him. He will never leave us, but will always come back no matter what."

James: "Obey dada"........we rustle".........."play with dad"........"he's my dad."

Rachel: "Rarrr.... (she loves to eat with daddy)."

Then we went to Stake Conference, came home, slept a little, kids rustled with daddy a whole bunch, we ate some good grub, went for a long walk and to the park. It was a good dad.

And I know daddy felt special on Daddy's Day.

James' Quotables and Notables

2011-08-02T10:29:00.000-07:00

My stud James HAD the best hair.

He was born bold and didn't actually start getting hair until he was one. So when the time finally came that I could do it, with gel and a comb it was exciting.

I actually really enjoyed doing it and it just made him that much cuter than he already was. Which was crazy because he is such an adorable, handsome creature.

When we got home from California the weather was hot and Josh persisted that we BUZZ his hair.

At first I said "No". Then he kept on saying how every summer when he was young him and Jared always got a buzz because it felt better.

Well, I finally gave in and said OK, since he said it would grow back fast.

The next thing I know I walk into the bathroom and James' hair is all over the tub and their was a lot too.

I gasped and said, " That short?" He had it at a 1.

I seriously was so sad. All, I mean all of his hair was gone. Ahhhhh!!

I thought he was going to do a buzz, not close to a bick.

So for that week Josh had to keep reminding me that it would grow back. I guess it will.

But I just loved his thick blond hair.

So now we are starting all over again, from square one.

Grow hair GROW!!

It was sad because a few days later James was feeling really sick and looked a little pale. So with no hair Josh and I kind or teased that he was our chemo baby. Not really funny, but he totally looked sicker than usual.

Well, he is happy as ever and I love touching his head. Because it feels so cool, he thinks it's pretty sweet too. And even after about a month it is growing back a little at a time.

I guess I was a little over the top with this one.

It's only hair right?

And he is still a total STUD!

Family times and changes

2011-08-02T09:53:00.000-07:00

Saying bye to Virginia beach was hard. Everyday James would ask "Beach Mom?" He loved the sand, the water and everything else involved. Before everyone had to take off we all went to celebrate Josh Nehrings dental graduation. He worked so hard to get there and I was so proud of him and Stacy for doing something so hard that took total faith. They worked so hard for it and it was so neat seeing Josh receive his diploma. He was shining that day with pure smiles from head to toe, along with everyone else in his family.

To celebrate after the huge commencement and all the extra things you do at graduation, we went to one of the best Pizza Places. The kids hung out at the bar, just staying entertained and we sat and talked, laughed and cried together as we reminisced all the years of hard work and trial that went into getting Josh to this point. Now we call him DOCTOR.

All the family had to head home....... but we stayed.

To help Stacy out and to spend some time with her and be there for the birth of her 4th child, I stayed an extra week and a half. She was having big changes happen. First off Josh, her husband graduated. Than her family was preparing to move so he can specialize in Nebraska. And last but not least she was planning to have her baby before the big move. Mom stayed with us too. We pretty much just watched the kids, made food and tried keeping the house looking good while packing the things we could. It was a very sweaty hot and humid stay.

The following week and a half was spent in Richmond, Virginia with Stacy and her family. James and Rachel had a great time in the heat and air conditioned house (thank goodness, or I would have died of heat). James had a great time with Talmage, Lilli and Izzy. He loved running through the sprinklers, playing basketball and baseball, going for walks with Nana and me, playing games, taking care of a turtle that I saved from being ran over, going to the splash pad, playing in mud, Popsicle, stories, and so much more.

But all in all James' favorite person to play with was, Nana. He no longer calls her grandma, but Nana. They totally have a connection and I just love watching how much he just loves her and always wants to be with her.He had many funny moments as well dressing up, playing games, movie nights and trying to have sleepovers with the cousins.

Well the time went by fast, like always. She always has her babies 2 days before her due date. At least with her last 3 kids. So we were thinking the same thing would happen with this one. So I was there 3 days after she was due and still no baby. Sadly we had to leave on Wednesday, just me and my 2 kids on a plane all by myself. It was a little difficult, when both of them decided to go to sleep right as we were landing both times. Thankfully I had a stroller and some good people to help me out. I made it home, to a husband and daddy that we were so extremely dying to see and love. 18 days is way to long to be away from Joshy Pooh.

But he did show me just how much he loved me and never wanted me to leave for that long ever again.

What can I say he just can't live with out us. Nor can we!

So my beautiful sister who was doing Zumba with me a week before she had her baby finally had

Benson Steven Nehring

4 days later, on Sunday.

I didn't actually get to meet him until after they had moved and drove all the way to Utah to visit family. We met him when he was about 3 weeks old. And he is a pure angel. So dang cute and so worth the wait.

Congratulations Stacy and Josh on everything new and the start of another chapter of life.

Lesson Learned and Working On:

It was pretty relaxing and really nice to spend so much time with my mom and get closer to her on this trip. I loved it, she would help me every night put James down to bed, because he always wanted his Nana to read books to him and cuddle him to bed. Then mom and I would end up talking and just really getting some things out that have been needed to talk about. I feel so tight with mom and just so glad that we became so close and I just look forward to more time and memories while opening up and letting her more into my life.

sobby feelings. And do you know what? It feels really good. Not having to portray my life as perfect has really allowed me to get closer to my mom too, because we both want so much more from each other. I am so grateful for my husband who has taught me this great lesson. I have cried and been hurt and have hurt others........but have talked about it and now am on the real right track to being more real and becoming much closer than I ever thought possible to the ones I love and care for.

Rachel at 11 Months

2011-08-01T16:01:00.000-07:00

A month ago you turned 11 months and you have shown the most progress in this month so far. We call you our little Vampire because you started growing your vampire teeth before your middle front teeth. Another nick name you have is Our little dinosaur, because you constantly growl like a dino and will try to attack on your hands and knees. You are quite funny. I am sure you are going to have a great sense of humor, since you already have us laughing and your not even one yet.

You are on the go and holding onto whatever you can to be mobile. You walks along every thing with help, climbs stairs and are such a busy body.

You are still our big eater. You love your oatmeal the most and sigh.."mmmm" when you eat something yummy. You have tasted many sweets, including your favorite, which is your brothers suckers. You crack me up around food because you love it so much. You will just grab, take, eat, repeat. If anyone takes something away from you, you totally cry or scream to get it back. You have quite the personality. You sadly got your worst case of sickness this month. You have been so so healthy this whole time for the majority of life. But near the beginning of June you totally came down with a really bad fever, runny nose and yuckies throughout your whole body. I felt so sad for you. All you wanted to do was eat orange juice Popsicles and cuddle with your mommy. Thank goodness to my obsession of essential health oils, they helped you through your sickness without pounding medication through your body. You were a total champ and I just felt so sad for you while I held you and just listened to you cry. Thankfully it only lasted a few days than you were back to yourself. The self I am so madly in love with. The one who still is a mommy's girl, but a happy mommy's girl.

This month you enjoyed the California beach almost everyday with all your cousins. You loved the sand, even though you ate way to much. The water was a bit cold, but you were so tough going out with me all the way into the waves. You even went under without fussing. I know you'll be a beach girl, cause you sure made the cutest beach baby. You were all smiles and giggles when James was around you playing in the sand. Your skin tans so great. Even with sunscreen you got some pretty olive skin, just like your mommy.

You love bath time with James and just love to splash and watch water spray. Once you wanted to join James, but before we could take your clothes off, James poured a whole bucket of water over your hear. You were drenched. All I could hear was a big splash and than you laughing. I went into the bathroom and this is what a saw.

A Happy Happy Baby Girl Drenched from Head to Toe.

June weather was really on and off. One day we would go swimming at the pool or fill up the baby pool with water and hang out in the sun, than the next day it would be raining and cold out. Thus, you have dressed in your swim suite and your winter coat. You love the water, but you demand that someone (especially your mommy be right close to you at all times). But you hate the swimming tube, I guess you like the full on contact of safety with someone holding you instead.

You helped celebrate the first Father's Day that you have been alive for. Daddy loved all the kisses and love you gave him that day. You are defiantly his pretty princess. Daddy always talks about how gorgeous you are and how special you are to him. All he ever wants to do is protect you.

It is hard to believe that you will soon be my one year old BABY!!

You bring so much joy and fulfillment to my life.

We are so blessed to have you as ours.

Virginia Beach Vacation

2011-07-07T14:34:00.000-07:00

Our big Leavitt family vacation this year was to Virginia again for the last time.

It was the kids and I. Josh stayed home because of summer school. He is really working hard to finish school as fast as he can. And he has been a complete champ about letting us go and have fun while he stays back and studies.

Thank goodness for mom's help on the plane. She made it so exciting and fun for James as she had activities and gifts for James the whole trip. James loved it and it really helped so much with his attention span for flying and being confined into one seat for many hours. As it always goes, the kids fell asleep just before we landed almost every time (not during though ,sadly).

We had a week at the resort, right off the ocean and beach. The view from our window was amazing and so refreshing. The weather was a bit cool, but we did spend 3 days at the beach.

James' favortie parts were playing in the sand,

running around and chasing the birds

boogie boarding,

jumping the waves and getting wet

playing with cousins, papa and nana

and finding treasures.

As for Rachel, it was her first time at the beach. Her favorite part about the ocean was holding onto mommy as much as she could, trying out the sand to see if it taste good and touching the water and than crying because it was so cold. Rachel's experience was a lot different from James' time at the beach. James is a lover and Rachel was not to fond at all. To cold and too uncomfortable.

For myself, one of my favorite places on earth is the beach. I just LOVE how crisp and fresh the air feels and the beautiful waves that crash upon the shore. The sound is music to my ears and I am in love with how warm the sand always feels under my feet and how it just runs right through my toes. This trip was so much fun just being with my fabulous sisters (except Linz, who couldn't join us), their kids and husbands and especially my mom and dad. Being with my family is one of my other favorite things in this world. So this week was a little piece of heaven for me.

But it was extremely hard being away from my one and only hubs for so long. We missed daddy so much and it is just never complete without him. I think he missed us more, as he told me that I can never leave for 15 days again and that it was just way to long. What can I say he loves us and needs us in his life.

We need him too.

Once we were done with the beach or it got to cold for the kids, we moved to the inside pool. We spent hours here. We'd sneak the little ones into the hot tube because they were so cold and they would keep us busy making sure each child was with an adult in the water.

I had a total startle.

Little James is such a dare devil around water and it is sometimes scary just how comfortable he feels in it. Well, he had ran around the pool to the other side and I turned for a second and the next thing I see is him trying to get into a little tube, and the second later his head is smack down in the water. I started yelling from across the room, but the muffle was so strong that hardly anyone could hear me. As I moved as fast as I could across the water, it felt like slow motion. Stacy happened to walk in right at that moment and she reacted so fast and saved James. Oh....that was so freaking scary. I went and hugged him to death and thanked God and Stacy for saving him. He choked out the water and only gave 2 moans and than seemed OK. Well, he was back in the water right after that. He's my little swimmer and I am so glad he is OK. And amazingly not even a little scared of water.

One of the nights we got to rent some cool bikes. We rode up and down the beach. It was so much fun racing the others and almost knocking each others bikes over. We were all pretty tired after and totally got a good work out.

On our way we stopped and visited Titan, danced and sang to a band playing and got some yummy ice-cream.

Another night we went on our traditional girls night out. One thing we do each year is have a theme for it that all of us participate in. This year mom was in charge and the theme was HANDS.

H- humble

A- atonement

N- nice

D- diligence

We each talked and discussed our subject. I talked about nice. My whole point was " BECAUSE NICE MATTERS" and "It's nice to be important, but it's more important to be nice."

It was a great night. We went and got pedicures and manicures. We were there for a few hours. Went shopping for our little ones and than went for desert to Apple Bees. I am so lucky to be so close to my sisters and mother. We talked and got our up lift, cried and laughed and became even closer. It is these moments that we are all able to realize that each of us go through our own challenges and that we all support each other no matter what.

The guys were in charge of all the kids. It was a sight to see when we got home late. As we were walking up to the resort, we hear Talmage screaming at the top of his lungs. We walk into the room and there is James dressed in Channings clothes (6 month clothing) and a big poppy diaper stinking up the place. Along with Izzy still in her wet bathing suit. It was hilarious. We were just glad all the kids where still alive.

Family is Everything!!
We stayed for another week and a half hoping for the arrival of Benson, but sad to say he never arrived while I was there. But we did have an amazing, no stress and no plans week.
Thanks to mom and dad for always placing family as a priority.This trip was truly needed and thanks for all the planning and time you put into making it all happen. We are so blessed to have you as our parents and be so loved by you two. Every family trip we go on is because mom and dad think it is so important that we continue to stay close and continue building relationships. Plus, they just adore their grandkids and the kids think their nana and papa are the coolest.
We are all so happy to be part of the Leavitt clan. Can't wait till next year!

Rachel at 10 months

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

Rachel you are into everything. You are constantly on the go.

Pulling yourself up and than moving youself along the couch is one of your favorite things to do.

You love to crawl around anything and everywhere.

You love to be right in the middle of everything and love to be involved in all that mommy, daddy and big brother are doing.

Your two bottom teeth are coming in real well.

You are a total grabber, especially for hair, skin, toys, paper and food.

Rachel you are just such a sweetheart and you melt my heart.

Before I know it, you are going to be walking and turning one.

I Love You!!

xoxoxo Momma

You had your first adventure in an airplane, to the beach, meeting your cousins the Nehrings and being away from daddy longer than 2 weeks. The trip to Virginia and California will fill you in with all this and more....when the time comes.

(Again, excuse the fact that this post of her being 10 months is really a month behind.

I have had no time to blog, but a lot to blog about lately.)

Mega May

2011-06-12T16:13:00.000-07:00

The beginning of May was mega babysitting for Josh and I. We watched our 4 nieces and nephews for 2 weeks and than a few days later 5 distant cousins for 2 days. It was BUSY!!! I always said I wanted 6 kids and this really allowed me to get a little taste on how busy it would be and how demanding I am as the main MOM, or babysitter. It was crazy taking 3 kids to different schools and just getting down the whole schedule. I know the age differences would probably help, being more spread out and tending to your own children's activities, but it was pretty crazy. Along with doing laundry for 8 people, which I did have in better control than I usually do at my own house. Homework, chores, baths, bedtime and stories, etc just took a lot longer than normal and it was definitely an eye opener as to the chaos that will come sooner than later in my own life. All I got to say is that I was so glad it wasn't just me by myself and that my Babe helped tag team to get things done faster and kids to bed happily with stories, songs and everything else.

Yet, we were still pretty stern when it came to obeying and respect, so we ran into a few little tiffs, but all in all we had a good time. James loved having a house full of kids to wake up to and he was a total sport with sharing his mommy. I am glad we got to do this, just because it really allowed me to get to know Scarlett, Audrey, Charles and Warren a whole lot more.
We had some fun days for good behavior too, going to the Nickle Arcade and Pirates Island. I truly believe that you love more and more with the time you give and spend with others.
Do I still hope to have 6 children someday?
Oh yes, but I am so willing to just take each one one by one and totally place it all in the Lords hands.
So come what may....... and love them.
Plus, I think that it becomes easier with your own children because they know what you expect and you have your own schedule and way of doing things as a family.
Not to say it will be easy or anything, but totally worth it!

During this time my little sis and mom come down to visit me. It was such a busy time for us, but they were such good sports. Amber took a workshop from one of mine and her favorite photographers here in Utah- Peekaboo Photography. She learned some really nifty things. But let's be honest- Amber is already as good as her in my books. We had fun with the kiddo's and Grandma spoiling the little ones. Thanks for being the highlight of these few weeks.

The day we finished our babysitting job, I went home and threw a Surprise Birthday Party for Josh with friends. Then the next morning I worked the office, then my family drove from Canada to see us all before we left to catch a plane the following day to Virginia. That night we went onto the next batch of kids, went out to dinner for Josh's birthday, slept and than sadly I left my husband behind to enjoy my side of the family's summer vacation. We left daddy behind, since he is enrolled in summer school for half the month.
We had tons of fun, but missed daddy way to much.

Highlights on our MEGA MAY Virginia Beach Family Trip coming soon to blogs near you........

Once there was a T-Rex......

2011-06-06T21:32:00.000-07:00

In our house, one of James' favorite songs ( with made up actions) is......

Once there was a T-Rex.....

T-Rex....

T-Rex.

Once there was a T-Rex......

ROAR!

(Then I tickle him)

In the sun he melted, melted, melted........

In the sun he melted.......

Ker- er SPLAT!

(It's a big kaboom on his tummy)

And James just laughs and laughs and laughs every single time.
(This boy is completely obsessed with dinosaurs.)

Rachel at 9 months

2011-06-04T23:39:00.000-07:00

I am behind a month on my little one. Soon I will post her 10 month pics. As for now, enjoy her a month ago. I've been super busy, but have a ton to post.

You are sprouting like a beautiful flower.

You never stop, but are always on the move, just like your big brother.

You are pulling yourself up on couches and anything you can stand up with. You cinch your way around places and love to be where everyone else is.

You are a complete mommy's girl and always want me to hold you. Yet if I leave you, you are completely fine until you see me again. When I usually grab you, you are completely content and just nestle sometimes into my chest with your finger in your mouth telling me you want to nurse or sleep.

You are eating anything you can put your hands on.

It goes like this: see something, grab it, put it in your mouth, eat it or spit it out, repeat.

You love to eat. You love food and can eat for hours if I let you. You love finger foods, and best of all your oatmeal. You pound your food sweetie.
You even eat more than James ever did as a baby and even now as he is 2 and a half probably. He has never been a big eater though. I just love watching you interact with your big brother. He is gentle the majority of the time with you. But I can already tell that you love being his little sister as you get so excited when he comes and sits or is close to you most of the time.

Your hair is growing and it is a darker brown, your eyes are a light brown/ hazel (they have changed) and everyone tells me just how much you look like James or your daddy. I'm going to say that you have taken a little ( I mean very small) part of me (Hooray!) and that is my darker skin and darker hair ( I guess only darker than your brother and that doesn't say much).
You got to spend a lot of time with different cousins this month. You did pretty well staying at the Wrights house for two weeks, with 4 other children wanting my attention and than you were actually able to interact a lot more with Channing now that he can sit up, even though you are kind of the little bully who steals his Binky or any thing he has in his hands, but you just don't know better yet. I defend you and tell everyone that other peoples things always look better anyways.

Whenever we go anywhere with the you and Channing, everyone comments and asks if your twins. You two are totally the same size and he is even 2 months younger than you. He'll probably out grow you fast in size.

I am more in love with you every single day. I am so glad you are a little piece of me and that you are MINE! (or daddy would like me to say OURS!)

You are a beauty that just keeps getting more beautiful by the day, just as a flower continues to grow and without a blink you are bigger and bigger and then probebly one day I will look at you and you will be fully blossomed, and I will think to myself.... She's not so little anymore

Please slow down a little.

Love you forever and ever.

Eggs, Snow and Jesus

2011-04-28T11:58:00.000-07:00

Friday night we drove to Brian Head for the Easter weekend.

Josh's brother has a beautiful new, huge cabin up there and we had a blast with part of our family- The Nielson's (Jason and Melissa) and the Sedivey's (Allyse and Patrick).

James always has the greatest time running around with his cousins and playing games with them.

It's so great, since he is the youngest of all of them that were there, they totally cater to him and always want him to play with them. So he is kind of popular between them. He loves it.

Easter Saturday was one of the funnest days.

Josh made french toast for everyone. Then we just hung out and talked.

We went down to the ski lodge and there were a bunch of games and face painting for the kids.

Can you guess what my DINOSAUR got?

My little Princess got a little bunny. She would barely even sit still for this.

Then we went back to the cabin and had a big Easter Egg hunt with everyone. Eggs where everywhere.

These were the Easter Egg Hunters (young enough to participate) and they were sure to find every single one.

We spent the rest of the day in the snow. James went sledding and loved every second. He was Mr. Independent out there, he wanted to walk up the big hill all by himself. But he did want me to ride down with him, it was a bit steep. We went down again and again. Then we went snowmobiling up and down the ski hills and around their cabin. It was a total rush. It was cold, snowing a bit and just sweet. After about 10 minutes of it we look at James and he is completely out. He had zonked out right in the front of the snowmobile. He was so tired from all the excitement that he crashed hard and was out for a while. Josh and I took the four wheelers for a ride too in the snow. That is a little scary, just cause there isn't as much traction, but it was a total blast being with all our nieces and nephews out there. We went home cause we were starting to get cold, had pizza and than roasted marshmallows and made smores out on the patio.

We ended the night in our PJ's coloring eggs.

James was quite proud of his dinosaur eggs with Long Neck on it and his brown dino baby egg. I made Rachel a zebra print/ bright pink egg.

Then we did one of James's favorite things when we are up there, hide and seek in the dark with flash lights.
More pictures to come of their cute Easter outfits for Easter Sunday the next day.
I do want to bear my testimony about our Savior, Jesus Christ and our Heavenly Father.
I know without a doubt that he lives and that was resurrected after he was brutally beaten and put up on the cross. I know that he suffered every sorrow and pain on this earth and did it for each one of us. The thing that I have learned the most this year during this holiday is to be more like him.What kind of person was he? I want to be more like him. What kind of music would he have listened to? Maybe Michael Bublae. What car would he have driven if he was here today? I hope a grey Honda Civic. Who would he have associated with the most? Probably those who are positive, happy or even the ones that need friends the most. All we know is that Christ was the best example and that he had good intentions in all he ever did. I need to live my life more like the Savior would if he was here today. Since our Father in Heaven gave his son the opportunity to be resurrected, I know he will give each and everyone of us the same opportunity if we live a good life. I am so glad that Heavenly Father has a wonderful plan for us and that I can rely on him through trials and good times. It is because of him that I want to live the best life I can and I am so glad he knows what we need to go through and learn. I am so blessed to be a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Later Day Saints, which is the only true church on earth. It gives me strength and knowledge that I need to get through each day.
I say this in the name of Jesus Christ, Amen.

We Spy Easter

2011-04-28T00:15:00.000-07:00

Easter was a blast this year with a two year old. He knew exactly what to do this time and there was no hesitations as to what where in those colored eggs. In preparation for this important, yet fun holiday we did a few things to make it exciting.

James helped me decorate and he was able to tell me which one was the letter "A" (that was a big deal).

Then he colored eggs and had one labeled for each member in the family. He did a great job decorating the window. Each morning he would get excited to see all the eggs and "what he had done".

One particular morning I gave him his favorite cereal, which is Rice Krispies currently (I think he likes them the best, only because of the cool box it comes in with all the cartoons on the back) and then I had other little breakfast things in the eggs for him to open. He would get so excited, even though it was only apples and Cheerios.

Oh, the joys of having little ones to enjoy the little things in life.

Along with all the hype for Easter we got together with some friends for Family Home Evening and had a great time learning about Jesus' Resurection. He got to color Christ, the Tomb and the Rock. Then he was re-taught the great story of how Jesus died and came back to life. Then we sang, played and frosted Easter cookies.

Each night for the rest of the week until Easter Sunday came we retold the story again with James putting Jesus in the tomb, having him act as the angels and moving the rock and then having Jesus come alive again.

We used the illustrated Scriptures. James always gets so worried and sad for Jesus when he see's him nailed to the cross. So we focused a lot on him rising from the dead and being alive right now.

I hope he will always have the love for the scriptures that he does now.

During mid-week we went over to another friends house and had a block Easter Egg Hunt. There was a good 20 kids there and so many eggs. James went running and I just stood near him taking pictures. It was so fun watching him get all frantic as kids would just come and grab eggs in front of him. He loved spying the eggs and grabbing them and putting them in his camo Easter basket.

It was a fun mommy and kid Easter Egg hunt , James had tons of candy and little Miss Rach was the little Easter Bunny looking oh, so cute. She loved grabbing at the eggs and putting them in her mouth.

James just kept on opening egg after egg and placing more and more candy in his mouth.

He was loving it too.

Rachel , don't you worry- next year you'll get to actually taste plenty of candy.

This year it was good enough just for you to look at all the colors.

And as for James, maybe it would be wise to take a little longer looking at your eggs, than eating everything you see.

This was our Happy Pre- Easter!
And it was so much fun hanging with my girl friends and kiddo's.

James and Rachel spied Easter a week before the actual events.

Laugh Attack

2011-04-27T23:05:00.000-07:00

This little guy had the biggest laugh attack I have ever seen.

I mean he laughs tons for a little guy. Especially when I spin him around or come after him and tickle him.

Almost everyday he loves rustling with daddy and gets so excited and works daddy so hard, he is out of breath.

But this day was hilarious.

I was chasing him around and daddy was making dinosaur noises and both of us were coming from both ends.

We would grab him and tackle him down.

He would try to get away and run off (secretly hoping for us to come after him again).

James would do his little dinosaur rarrr back and seek for us to keep throwing him around.

He got so worked up, he was turning bright red and kept on saying " AGAIN, again!"

He was laughing uncontrollably. Daddy and I couldn't believe just how worked up he was, so of course we started laughing our heads off.

Then he started drooling a bit, unable to hold in his emotions of excitement.

He was definitely a sight to see.

James is our laughing machine.

And man is it ever fun getting him going.

He definalty does have a sense of humor and knows when things are funny .....

or even hysterical.

Thank You

2011-04-22T10:14:00.000-07:00

I just want to say thank you to the one I care about the most. Josh is such a solid foundation to me. It is sad that sometimes I don't always show him just how much I love him. There are times I let little things bother me and than it becomes a disagreement. He has taught me so much about letting the little things roll and being happy no matter what. One of his greatest qualities is to just be happy. As many of us stress out on things that don't really matter, it is sad that at those moments we hurt the ones we love the most. I will try my hardest to focus more on how I can change, rather that on making a big deal out of things that won't even matter tomorrow. I am so glad we have the power to forgive and to be forgiven. Josh has had to be patient with me and has thankfully forgiven me of my silly comments or acts. Thank you Josh for teaching me how to be a better person and for the time you spend with me and our little ones. As finals are arriving, I am so proud of Josh and how dedicated he has been in studying and getting through each class. I know this is not easy, but he is doing it for our family.

I love you babe!!

Her First Word......

2011-04-16T23:12:00.000-07:00

......MOMMA!

Today I was in Rachel's room with Daddy adjusting her crib ( because now she pulls herself up to stand and if she would have became top heavy she could have seriously fallen out) and I heard Rachel babbling her baby talk and making her way into her room on her hands and knees. I could hear her kind of moan and grown and then suddenly she turns the corner and stops. She looks at me and clearly says "Momma". I had to question Josh to see if he heard what I heard and sure enough he said it was loud and clear that she had just said her first word. And how special did I feel that it was my favorite word my own child could say...... Momma.

It was one of those proud mommy moments.

She is defiantly a mommy's girl. I just love seeing how excited she gets when I enter a room or when I hold her. She is my little princess and I just love how happy she makes me. She is a pure light to our family.

Well, she is only 8 months old and I would usually say that it was probably just her mumbling baby talk, but this was clearer than ever and I am going to believe that my name was her first word. We will see if she says it again I guess.

Rachel at 8 months

2011-04-08T14:58:00.000-07:00

You are to die for.

Just looking at you makes me want to eat you up.

Holding you I have to be careful not to squeeze you to hard, as my love for you just wants to explode.

You have learned so much this last month.

You are CRAWLING like a big girl.

You learned about a week before you turned 8 months. You were doing the army crawl for a while and then one day, with no help you learned how to do it on your own. You were a champ and got around so fast. It is crazy how much you want to pull yourself up now. You love to stand when someone helps you. I can already tell that you are going to be a big time mover, because already right now you are on the move. You seem to find me anywhere. All of a sudden I'll look down and there you are tugging at my pant leg with your adorable little smile and bright eyes, as if saying- "momma pick me up".

You are a great sleeper. You sleep anywhere from 9 to 12 hours straight most night. You are still a big time nurser- which momma loves. I love how you yearn for me when you wake up and get so excited as I get ready to nurse that you start sucking your thumb and making little noises of joy. You still play with my hair a ton when nursing and you love holding my fingers too. Momma doesn't enjoy when you grab my chest and squeeze tight or bight me where it hurts with your bottom 2 teeth that have come through over a month ago.

You love most food and we know it because you always sigh "Mmmmm...." When you don't like something you do the opposite and make a disgusted look and spit it out. You love your oatmeal, mixed cereal and whole wheat cereal. You are still a fan of most vegetables, besides green beans and mixed vegetables. You love love fruit and crackers. You are amazing at picking up food with your fingers and feeding yourself. When we eat in front of you and you want it you grab for it, sometimes you get it, other times you get sad when we eat it up ourselves.

You are incredible at soothing yourself. You have never been a binky baby, but a total thumb sucker. When it is time to lay you down I place you on your blankey and you place that little thumb in your mouth and try to fight that you are tired or go right to sleep. You are not a cuddle bug, you have learned how to put yourself asleep and therefore love routine. If you do cry, you don't cry over 3 minutes usually and then you are out. You love sleeping with a blanket right close to your face, next to your thumb. You go to sleep around 8 and wake up around 7 , give or take a few hours, depending when you do go to bed (because mommy and daddy still have a life and are out doing stuff with you too).

Church is a struggle once you get tired. It is hard because it is right during nap time and you want your bed.

You have nap time usually around 10:00, sleep for 1 1/2 to 2 hours, wake for another 2 hours than another nap 2:00, sleep for another 2 hours usually than up again to play with daddy when he gets home from school. Daddy always talks about how beautiful you are and he loves showing you off.

Daddy tickles you like crazy and you squeal at the top of your lungs and laugh adorably.

You are such a happy little baby and you have made having 2 kids fun and easier than I thought- time consuming, but worth it.

You love your big brother so much. If you see him playing in his room , you crawl right over to him and love just being near him. I have watched you guys a number of times just looking at each other and laughing.

James continues to give you kisses and says "Love you baby" on his own. When you wake up from a nap, James often times says "Momma- Baby" and heads on into your bedroom to get you. You start kicking your legs up and down and have the biggest smile on your face. You love people, especially your momma.

You are a total Mommy's girl, and I love it. I hope and pray that we are tight and close as you grow up and always.

You are adored by ME.......and Daddy.

I will always love you.

I find myself more and more in love with you as each month passes.

I am addicted

2011-04-04T14:56:00.000-07:00

To this little boy

To his smile

To staring at him

To watching him responds to things

To seeing how much he learns and remembers

To his facial expressions and sillieness

To his cute little body

To his joy for life

To cuddling with him

To kissing and hugging him

To praising him

To helping him

I am honestly and truly addicted to James Nielson.

He makes my heart race and whenever I think of him I get so excited and I find myself just staring at him so much and just hugging and loving this cute, sweet and kind little guy.

I am in complete love with him and I hope he knows it.

Because I sure do show him everyday (all the hugs and kisses and time spent with him).

XOXOXOX

Mommy

When I woke up this morning.........

2011-04-03T22:38:00.000-07:00

It was still winter.

SNOW and COLD- not a good combination.

At least that is what the weather told me.

It was conference morning and James wanted to go outside. Just as I opened the door to let him go play outside, there was a huge blanket of about 6 inches of snow on the ground.

It made me sad.

I am in need of good, warm weather. I want to start going swimming with the kids,

going for walks and playing at parks. Plus it just makes me extra happy when the weather is sunny and beaming. I really think James is getting to the point of discouragement when I don't allow him to go outside when he wants to (which is quite often), because of the worry that he will get sick.

Well, while I got ready for Conference and company to come over for breakfast, I brought the snow to him once again. I filled the tub up with warm water and brought in bowls of snow. He loves snow, just not the idea of getting his fingers froze. He had all of his dinosaurs (his new obsession) in having a bath too. After about every 5 minutes, he would yell out "Momma, More Please!" Eventually the bath water became cold and it was time to have breakfast with friends and to try to listen to conference with half a dozen kids.

Let's just say it wasn't to eventful, but it was great company and the kids seemed to have fun, along with yummy pancakes loaded with fruit and whip cream.

Once the second session came on I had both my kids in bed and Josh and I actually got to listen to 3/4 of it in complete silence and tears because I was touched by Elder Richard G Scott and a speaker from the seventy. These were my favorite talks as they focused on family and raising children. I will defiantly go back and watch the others that I missed on DVR. I need this spiritual push. It always lifts me in ways that I need and reminds me of the ways in which I need to be better. I need to love more and teach with love and kindness, as well as through example.

Even though winter has been to long, we have still enjoyed ourselves inside.

Here are a few fun things we have been up to.

Learning our colors and the ABC's. So far we have only done A and B and it seems as though he can recognize these 2 letter, but never on demand (like most kids, right?). As you can see here, it was yellow day. James' favorite colors are red, blue and green and when asked what a color is, it is usually a pick between these three.

Play-Dough is a huge hit. He plays with it for so long and stays very interested. Especially if he has his dinosaurs romping around in it. One of his good friends live downstairs and almost everyday he asks to play with Grace. They get along most of the time and have very similar interests.

We made some fun edible snowflakes.

We watch and feed his fish almost every other day.He loves to watch it swim up to its food and take a big bite.

Daddy's been to a number of BYU games with his buddies and us- supporting Jimmer in his last games playing for BYU.

James has been hanging out a ton with his cousins and Nana. We have visited Henderson, Nevada a few time and James and Rachel feels spoiled with how much attention they get from their awesome cousins, aunts and uncles.

Feeding ducks is fun if it were a bit warmer. He lasted for only a few minutes, we will for sure return when the weather is warmer.

Bath time is one of Rachel and James' favorite things to do in the morning. If James could, he would stay in there for hours. Rachel on the other hand loves to kick her feet and it doesn't bother her to have water poured on her head. I have a feeling we have another swimmer.

One of James favorite books to read (besides dino books) is "There's a Wocket in my Pocket" and " The Cat in the Hat". On Dr. Seuss Birthday James and I went on a date to Macy's. We decorated the Cat in the Hat cookies, read Dr. Seuss books and got to color and use stickers. We had a blast together.

We've had some family fun nights, movie nights, dinner nights and game nights.

We are big time into our friends, we feel so blessed to have such fun and awesome people to hang out with and it's exciting to see our little ones get to know each other too.

We've created Dinosaur Caves and Forts, along with story time. We are creative and color a ton and make our own foamy dinosaurs (that he think are amazing). His favorite movie presently is the Land Before Time.

Each day we watch Rachel learn new things and grow. James has been really good at learning that if he wants something baby has, he has to give her something else to replace it. James is still extra protective and sweet to his sister, most of the time.
Rachel loves playing with James' dinosaurs too. I really need to get some girly toys around this place. All we really have is boy toys. Oh well, it doesn't seem to bother her yet.

They are the funnest little ones to dance with and tickle. They laugh so much and their giggles are to die for.When I spin them around, Rach just grins her toothless little smile and James yells "again again" over and over again.
They are so much fun to have fun with.

James has been mesmerized with his growing T-Rex. It started this size and ended up to be larger than this cup. Thanks to the dollar store, this was pure entertainment for little James to watch.

We have found a trick in getting him to eat his vegetables and chicken. We ask him what dino's eat and he will say meat or trees and if we eat them like a dinosaur, he will mimic us and eat them up too, followed with Rarrr's. I guess us parents just do what ever it takes. And I am okay with that- I love acting like a dinosaur when I eat my food. But daddy is the most entertaining dinosaur to watch eat- James would agree.

Josh has been trucking through school and I have been sewing a bit more and playing around with the camera and photoshop. But they have taken a lot more time than I thought, it's all about learning how to use them and spending time doing it.

Being a mommy is priceless, worth every second and taking pictures freezes those little moments that pass by so quickly and you can never go back to. Creating moments, creates memories and these are what we remember.

We have had a complete blast together this winter doing tons of things......

But let's be honest- I am ready for Summer.

Just MOVE IT!

2011-04-03T21:13:00.000-07:00

Here is our little munchkin on the move.

She loves crawling all over the place and does a great job at it.

She has been doing the army crawl for quite a while. But just on Monday it seemed she learned it over night. I didn't even help her at all with figuring it out. I thought..... she's going to be crawling and walking the rest of her life, let her be little for a while. Well despite that, she learned and is just moving moving moving.

The sweetest thing is when I am doing something from a far distance and in a matter of seconds she is right there at my feet pulling on my leg and looking up at me just smiling or giving me the look of- pick me up mommy. These moments are coming so fast and it is just a matter of time before she will be walking.

Why can't we just pause these moment? They are so precious and dear.

This was today (Sunday) a few days later. Each day she just gets more and more movable and independent.

I am so proud of you sweetheart, you are so big.

But I am also just wanting you to be my little baby for a little longer.

But I am in total understanding that you just want to

"MOVE IT!"

Once in a life time

2011-03-30T23:21:00.000-07:00

Josh had a once in a life time experience...............

On Monday night our awesome friends, the Clary's, took us to the Jazz game and we had dinner served. We were pretty much VIP. While we walked into the Energy Solutions building some guys threw us each a Jazz hat (for free). Now at this moment we thought we were pretty special. Well a second later, a guy walked up to Josh and asked him if he would be interested in shooting during the 2nd time out. Of course Josh would be interested- is that a trick question? I ran to buy him a Jazz shirt, so he was sporting the right team and everyone would know too. Then we went up to the top in a kind of scary elevator that had a man working it. It was one of those that you see in the movies and of course the idea of if we got stuck in it there would be no way out. Well we got to the top and ate some good food. The view was awesome, you could see the whole entire basketball stadium. Once the game started we were in our seats and Josh took off so he could get ready for the big shooting. To make matters better- he was shooting for money. No pressure. It's crazy because as I watched him waiting on the side lines with the cheerleaders to get on the court I felt nervous for him. Josh had never had so many people just staring at him. As he got out there each area of one side of the court was marked with the money amount. Starting at $25 for the layup shot, $50 for the foul line, $ 100 for the 3 point line and $1000 for the half court line. Josh was on the big screen and I was his biggest fan. Screaming at the top of my lungs for my 30 second famous husband.

Once they said GO......

He shot the first...

He scored -----$ 25

He stepped onto the foul line.....

He shot.....

He Scored----$50

The crowd went crazy .

He runs to the 3 point line....

No basket.

Next is half court....

So close, it hits the rim, but misses.

Then they yell out that he has 3 seconds to do any of them.

He shoots from where he is at the 3 point line.....

No basket.

Ya!!!! He walked home with $80 , I guess a $5 tip for a job well done.

Who else can say they can get paid $80 per 30 seconds. Maybe a NBA player, but Josh felt that fame for his 30 seconds of excitement, nervousness, adrenalin and pure fun.

I was so proud of him. All those eyes on him must have been a little intimidating and nerve racking.

Way to Go Lover Boy!

We had a terrific night. Fun with great company (Thanks a ton Becca and James!), good entertainment, good food and a bit to much nachos and cheese.The game was close- had to go into over time, and we came out loosing. But that is what Josh wished for so that they would have a higher draft pick and maybe, just maybe Jimmer could one day play for the Jazz . At least that is what Josh hopes for.

Jimmer has been a big deal around these parts. Especially since BYU made it into the Sweet Sixteen. We have heard the "Teach me how to Jimmer" over and over again, due to Josh's man crush on Jimmer Fredette. I am convinced one day I will learn how to Jimmer.

I do like how he is so known and the example he is to all of us. He is humble, kind and he really seems like a good person. There needs to be more role models like him in the day and age for our kids (and us) to to up to.

I have never really been a TV watcher of sports, but love the games. Yet with this game I was nervous for the players and totally into the game. Josh on the other hand was a bit to invested into the game. He became overly passionate, but was eventually able to get over the loss.

March Madness is coming to an end, and I am proud to say that this year I have actually watched some of the games and have show interest in my husbands passion of basketball and the big deal of March Madness.
Go Jazz!!

And Good Job BYU for getting so far!
James is such a BYU fan. Anytime he see's daddy wearing his BYU shirt he wants to be just like him. He will say BYU Cougars when ever he sees the slogan or sign. And he just loves getting all decked out and supporting good old BYU.

James's Quotables and Notables

2011-03-13T20:45:00.000-07:00

James's normal night time routine includes:
read scriptures, kneel down and pray, read 2 books (usually dinosaur books lately) while James finishes his sippy of milk, brush teeth while we sing the song "If all the raindrops were lemon drops and gum drops.........standing outside with my mouth open wide.... Uh, uh, uh. uh .... " ( this seems to be the only way lately to have him open his mouth to brush his teeth), then last but not least singing songs and snuggling.
On one particular night while I lay next to him, he put his arm around my neck and snuggled and then I looked at him and said "James I love you." He said back to me without a pause "Momma I love you." That was the first time he said that without me asking him to say it back to me. It was the dearest sentence I have heard come out of his mouth. I just hugged him and told him how wonderful and special he is to me.
This little guy has been talking a ton lately. I even find himself talking to all his toys and to the baby too.
I have noticed that every stage of life so far for James has been a blast. Seeing him progress and grow just shows me how fast life does pass before my eyes and how just these small little moments develop into the boy/ man he will become one day.

Rachel at 7 months

2011-03-10T14:58:00.000-08:00

Little lady, you are now 7 months old and always moving.

Some of your favorite things to do are:

To roll all over the place. I can turn around to do something and you have already rolled all the way across the room.
You love to eat oatmeal, rice cereal, sweet potato's, carrots, squash and mixed veggies.
Gnawing on pizza crust, but recently with your 2 new bottom teeth you actually end up ripping it apart, as though you are T-Rex or something.
You love love fruit, but I have been very strict on not giving you any, so that hopefully when you are older you will like your veggies. But I have given you some banana and you get so excited and anxious for more.
Being held is still one of your favorite things, but you do so much better not being held all the time, you are actually allowing mommy to get somethings done around the house.
You love to move and you prefer sitting up or being on all 4's and rocking back and forth back and forth.
Being with your mommy is one of your favorites. When you are with someone else, you will be fine until I come in the room again. Then you start to get a little sad- as though you are saying "Come on Mommy, hold me".
You love having a silk blanket or you mini blanket right next to your face when you sleep.
Sucking your thumb is now a must when you go to sleep. This is one of my favorite things too, because it indicates that you are so ready for bed.
You love your daddy and how he makes you laugh. You will see him smiling at you from across the room and you will giggle so much when he comes towards you with the tickle claw.
Big brother is someone who you can just watch for hours and you love to take anything he is playing with, but he has finally caught on that if he wants something you have, all he has to do is exchange it with something (anything- you don't really care yet, as long as it's something you can put in your mouth).

Somethings you do not like are:

Green beans, any type of baby meat, and not being fed when everyone else is eating.
When mommy doesn't put you to sleep on time and you are overly tired.
Dirty diapers, your poor cute and dimply butt hates being dirty.
When you roll into a couch and can't figure out how to keep going.

You love to stick your tongue out all the time. When I was taking pictures of you, you stuck it out probably 80 % of the time.You are one silly girl.

I love hearing you shriek when daddy or I tickle you or grab your thighs.

James is a great brother to you and actually likes having you around him the majority of the time. While James is watching a show I will sometimes have you sit by him and you two do great together, as long as you have something in your hands to play with.

You always have to taste whatever is in your hands. It goes- grab, hold, mouth, touch, mouth, repeat again.

Your Grandma and Grandpa came to visit you. You loved it, they spoiled you with so much love.

Nana always loves to cover you with kisses.

Your Grandma, Grandpa and Nana just love your little spirit and can't get enough of you.

Just this last month I feel that you have grown from a little baby to a little girl.

You are so aware with things around you and you can get around on your stomach, knees and your little push. I love watching you do your push-ups.

It's crazy that you will be crawling any day now. I was about to help you learn how to crawl, but then thought to myself- Why teach her, she is going to be crawling and walking the rest of her life.

I was reminded:

"Let them be little, because they are only that way for a little."

It was finally nice enough to take you for a walk in the double stroller. I was so excited. You fussed a little while I put you in, next to James, but once we started going you loved it so much that you fell asleep.

I probably used the Johnny Jumper more this month than any other and you like it for about the first 10 minutes, then you seem to want out. I don't think it will last much longer.

You have the wings of an angel

You have made me a better person.

You create so much joy in my life every single day.

You allow me to understand just how much our Father in Heaven loves me.

You are my angel here on earth.

YOU GIVE ME WINGS TO FLY,

as I completely love being your

MOMMY.

FYI: The first three pictures are some of my first ones done with my new camera and photoshop. I am just learning, but this is a start.

Photoshoot with just us girls

2011-03-03T23:01:00.000-08:00

During my sisters visit, she took a few pictures of my sweetie and I. I love the color and I just love how dang cute Rach is. Check out her photo's that I took, but she edited ( amberholtphotography.blogspot.com) she's a beauty with her little handsome man. Thanks Amby Bamby for more fun pictures. Now I just need to develop them and get them hung in my house to show off. Love you so much and thanks a million for creating these memories I can always look back at . Oh these moments are passing oh so fast. Look at her, she is already standing with help and so ready to almost crawl.
I love her little chunky cheeks and legs.
You are the bomb Amber, thanks again!!

Coupon Craz

2011-03-02T20:58:00.000-08:00

For the longest time I have been wanting to save money while shopping. I mean I don't bring in any money anymore because I get to be with the kiddo's. So I thought if I save money it is almost like making money too, right?

Well at the end of December I subscribed to the Daily Herald. I guess the mail man had a hard time finding us, so I didn''t receive all of them. While they did accumulate, I had no idea what to do with all of them, so my stack kept on getting bigger and bigger as weeks passed. Well, I met a girl who does Savvy Shopper and I went shopping with her. I guess I felt overwhelmed and like I wouldn't be very successful. I never use coupons so it was a total new thing to me. Lauren was awesome, she totally hooked me up. Thanks to a worker at Walgreens too, she helped us out a ton. As I saw the savings I was making, it gave me a high that felt so good. We also went to Rite Aid too, which wasn't as great, but still pretty good.

So here is my first shopping trip:

2 Right Guard Body Wash
4 Huggies Diaper Wipes in Containers (72 ct each)
2 Huggies Diaper Packs (36 each)
3 Cascade dishwasher soap
2 Ocean Spray 100% Juice
3 Kellogg's Cereal
4 Febreze
2 Lysol Fabric Mist
5 Gain Dish Liquid
3 Venus Embrace Razors (2 blades in each)
3 Colgate Toothpaste
3 Packs of Halls Drops
4 Hershey Chocolate Assorted Packages
4 lg Reese's Mini Bags
6 Aerosol Hairspray (Finesse)
2 Hairspray (Finesse)
2 in 1 Shampoo/ Conditioner (Finesse)
6 Shampoo( Finesse)
6 Conditioner (Finesse)
1 Freezer Pops
Bubbles4 Coloring and Activity Books (Disney)

Did I save money?

Oh ya!!

Walgreens:
Total Cost at Regular Price: $244.75
Spent: $61.00
Saved:$ 183.75

Rite Aid:
Total Cost at Regular Price: $84.15
Spent: $25.49
Saved: $58.66
So I was happy with my savings. I was told that the deals I got weren't even the greatest and that I could have done even better. Well I guess I am learning and when I saw how much I saved I was jumping for joy.

So today after a few nights of cutting out all the many coupons from December (hours on end and staying up until 4 a.m., so my little guy wouldn't trample all over them was not fun at all. But today I finally felt organized and like I just might be able to go on my own. Couponing is like another language to me, so I really was intimidated by the whole thing. So I took off with my huge binder in hand and told Josh I was going to save money. First stop I totally questioned one of the workers on a few things I didn't understand. She was super nice, so that made it so much more easy. But I forgot that new shipment comes in tomorrow, so lots of the stuff I went for was out of stock. Darn it. But these were the findings I did get:

2 Listerine Mouthwash
3 Jumbo packs of diapers (each one was usually $10.99, go them for $4.99 each)
2 Venus Razors (got paid to get these )
2 Hershey drops bag
Parsley seasoning
Giant Nerds
Lip Balm

Did I save Money?

Yes, but I didn't feel like it was amazing by any means.

Walgreens:

Total Cost at Regular Price: $63.37

Spent: $22.30

Saved: $41.07

Next Place I went to, hoping I could get food, was Smiths. But I had to hurry, so I found the following. I thought they would have better and more deals.

1 Pineapple
2lbs grapes
5 cans Hunts Spaghetti sauce
3 Whole wheat pasta

Did I save Money?

Yes, but only if I would have bought these items at regular expensive prices that Smiths had them priced at before. I have never really shopped there, because of the high prices.

Smiths:

Total cost at regular cost:$20.78

Spent:$7. 51

Saved: $13.27

Well, I did learn some new things today about couponing and the greatness of finding a good deal and then using coupons on top of those deals, using Walgreens rewards and how a smile and asking questions can really educate you on saving money. I know that I still have a ton to learn, next time I will probably go with my friends who are more experienced, so I can learn to tricks too.

I am a believer of SAVVY SHOPPING.

If you want to save money for your family go to savvyshopperdeals.com and get a few Daily Heralds on Sundays.I went to a seminar on Savvy Shopping and it did help a lot. I am excited to save money!! It really does give me satisfaction and a total HIGH!!

So here begins my experiences of being in on the Coupon Craz.

High Five for shopping and feeling good about it.

Happy....... Sad

2011-03-01T18:20:00.000-08:00

So happy that my mom and dad came to visit and brought an amazing surprise- my sister Amber. I almost cried when I saw her. My family is my everything and I wish so bad that they lived really close to me. We have way to much fun together. Mom and dad only stayed for a short time, as they were driving through to go to New Mexico for a short time.

Amber stayed with me for half of the week (which was not long enough). We had a blast together. We shopped, ate at Cafe Rio a few times (they don't have it in Canada and it's our favorite), she taught me more about the camera, we did a photo shoot together and am learning from the best. We got to sew some real cute girl dresses, play games and just talk.

I just love her to pieces. We had so much fun with our little babies who are just a few months different in age. It was such a happy time having her here with me, we are the best of friends. I love you Amber so much, thanks for making the trip down here and for just being so great about everything. We have the best times together being the wierdo's that we are.

Then mom and dad came back up and spent a day with me, we played Settlers of Catan of course (a tradition every time we see each other) until early in the morning, we ate at Olive Garden and just hung out and laughed together (not to mention Josh's famous dance moves- Josh was our number 1 entertainment for the night). Nan also joined in on the fun (she's our favorite exchange student from Tia land. She thinks our family is a little crazy and she is totally right, but she loves it.

Rachel and Channing sat by eachother and observed one another (not much interacting yet- Channing in 2 months younger, but just as big as Rachel) They look like they could be twins. How do people do it with twins. I was holding both of them at the same time, just feeling for those mommy's of twins.

James loved loved playing with Grandma and Grandpa. He was laughing so hard last night as grandma chased him around and played hide and seek and yelled out Rarrrr when he found her. He sure thinks they are awesome. He totally would ask Grandma to tuck him in each night.

SADLY.........

When they left this morning early, I was so sad they had to go. I always dread the day they leave. It makes me a little depressed as I wave goodbye to them and watch them drive off. How fun would it be if we were just minutes away from each other. I would be with them all the time. Oh... to only dream that one day I will be living real close to at least one of my sisters or my parents. That would be pure bliss. I already miss them so much and long for the time I see them again.

I love you guys more than words can say and please come visit anytime you have the time. There is always a place to stay and you know you are always welcome here.

xoxoxooxoxo

I miss you and am so happy you made my week, but so sad you had to leave me.

All Mine!

2011-03-01T18:00:00.000-08:00

Holidays are always a big hit at our home.

Any reason to make a big deal about something, especially about the ones you love, I am all over it.

This year for Valentines, daddy did an awesome job.

For starters he let me sleep in and took his little Princess shopping with him early in the morning. When James and I woke up we went into the kitchen and there was a huge balloon that read " Be my Valentines!" Then each of us had a gift and a card that expressed his love for us. Daddy loves us so so much.

Mommy got a dozen red roses, chocolate and a thoughtful card.

James was spoiled with gummies (daddy and his favorite), and a transformers dress-up.

Daddy's little princess got one single red rose (daddy's new tradition- each year give her a rose) and a Minnie Mouse stuffed animal blanket (which she sleeps with all the time now).

Then I made a " HEARTY"breakfast for my lover boys.

While daddy went to school, James and I made Valentines for our loved ones. James showed great interest in taping things together and coloring by dotting with the marker.

For dinner, I made one of Josh's favorite meals- pasta with artichokes, capers, cabbage, chicken, bacon and an Alfredo sauce (almost like Macaroni Grill).

Then we went bowling as a family. James loves bowling so much. He's a strong little stud, as he grabs the ball and proceeds to walk as far as he can toward the lane, before he drops it. He gets so excited when he gets a pin down. Pure joy was shown in his little eyes that night and I just savor these small little moments. He is growing up and I can't do anything about it. He is little Mr. Independent.

Then Josh and I ended the night with cuddles and a movie.

It was a great day and I just love my sweet and thoughtful husband, my tough and growing baby / big guy James, and my sweetest little princess Rachel.

I am so lucky that they are MINE!!

A few small parts that made me smile, from Josh's love letter to me read:

I love you so much, every good thing I have in life came from you........

I love the woman you are, the mother you are, the person you're trying to be and the person you have always been.......

I know God loves me because he sent me you.......

All these words, pictures, thoughts, moments, memories and sweetie pies are

ALL MINE!!

Happy Valentines Day

2011-02-14T13:56:00.000-08:00

Today is a special day throughout the world, it is a day to look at your whole world and think about all those you love. I tell those I love that I love them, but do I say those words enough? Love is such an amazing action word that can forever be acted upon.

I am in mad love with my husband and thank God that I was good enough to have such a good man granted to me for eternity. I know we have our differences and similarities, I love him more than words can say. I am so glad Josh is the daddy of my children and that he loves them beyond words. He is my everything and I do live for him and hope that I can always be one he is proud to be married to. I will spend the rest of my life falling more in love with him. And I am glad we have Valentines day, the day of love, to be cheesy and extra loving today.

I love love my little son who is my joy. He is my other prince that I have a soft spot in my heart for. He makes me so proud to be a mother and I learn from him all the time. I love his kisses, hugs, cuddles, smiles, words and everything about him.

My sweet Rachel is to die for she reminds me everyday just how much God loves me. He sent this little angel to bring peace and extra love to our family. Her smiles melt my heart and there is no doubt that she loves me in return.

I love my parents , they have always be amazing examples and teachers. They are always there for me and have given me the greatest hope of happiness in my life. They make me proud and happy.

My sisters and brother are the greatest. I am so glad I am so close to them and that we have memories to always go back to. I keep learning from them and some of my greatest times are with them.

Momma Rose (Josh's mom) is an amazing mother too. She loves me no matter what and understands me. I am glad she lives close to me, she is wonderful and a breath of fresh air.

My sister and brother in laws are great. I love them for being so warm and for the relationships we develop and for the love they show to my children. I am lucky to have them close to me and that we can get together often.

My girl friends make it so much fun when doing girly things or when I just need some girl time. It is relaxing and always so fun just to talk and craft. I am lucky to have great girl friends who don't expect to much from me, but just listen and talk with me.

I LOVE so many people and here is just a small list saying I love you and thank you for making my life worth it and so much more fun. LOVE is everything!

Hope you all take today to tell those you love that you LOVE THEM!!

We just never know what tomorrow brings. It may be to late.

Check this out- My Talented and Amazing Sister Does it Again!

2011-02-12T15:42:00.000-08:00

MoM's Little Doll/ Children's Hair Accessories

Check out these adorable vintage hair accessories from MoM's Little Doll! They are so fun and modern and are for all ages.

We are having a giveaway for this beautiful hair piece so ENTER now!

You can enter by doing the following:

FIRST ENTRY: please comment on this post
SECOND ENTRY: post a link to MoM's Little doll to FACEBOOK
THIRD ENTRY: Link me to your existing blog
FOURTH ENTRY: become a follower of my blog(let me know when you do this so I can make sure you get this entry)
FIFTH ENTRY: refer this link a to a friend(once the friend is referred make sure they comment on the blog letting me know)
The winner will be announced on FEB 28TH
)
All Hair Accessories are HANDMADE in Airdrie, AB

James' Quotables and Notables

2011-02-12T15:36:00.000-08:00

This boy cracks me up!!

There are so many times I hit myself for not writing down something awesome he did or said.

These are what I remember:

Just the other day James and I went on a date to the library and store. The church is right across the street from the library and he points to it and says "chuch". Then he pointed to the library and said "ibary". He knows exactly where to go when we get there. He never misses getting a stamp and always places his hand down on the counter, points to the one he wants and says "Peas" and Tank Do". While searching for books, I usually grab a bunch I think he will like and then have him look through them and tell me yes or no. It is crazy that the ones he wanted dealt with things he has watched- DINO's (of course- his latest obsession), 101 Dalmatians, Bambi and Buzz. He reads these with or without us. He just gets lost in books, I love it.

In the last week, whenever we are reading fiction or non-fiction James will say "nice" or "mean" for each dino and he is 100% correct most of the time about each one. His favorite by far is T-Rex. He constantly "RARRrr's" where ever we go.

For instance when we went to Walmart to go grocery shopping, we were down an isle and there was a couple passing us. All of a sudden I see James look at them and let out a huge :Rarrr! They looked at me and I just said "He's totally into dinosaurs". They smiled and growled back at him a few times. He loved it.

There is a book we have read almost every night (his preference) for the past week and James is now reading it with me. It's called "How Do Dinosaurs Say I Love You". He yells out the last word on every page. It is priceless. Yet, the cutest part is the last page when I say " And that's how a dinosaur says I Love......" and he says "Me" (when it is really YOU).

Today I had him sit at the table, I gave him his food and after he said his little prayer(with my help) he took a bite and smiled and said "Yummy Mama."

Another thing he says a lot is "Hold Me" as he stretches out his arms and looks at me. Sometimes it is when I have Rachel in my hands too and very inconvenient, yet I try to find someway to hold both of them. James isn't the biggest cuddler (besides at bedtime) so I take any cuddles I can during the day.

His favorite songs are Jesus (Jesus once was a little child) and God song (Child of God). All he says is a word and I know which one he wants. He points to the ceiling and says stars when he wants Twinkle Twinkle little star. Whenever we have FHE, he loves loves Ring around the Rosie and usually ends up on the ground before we even reach Ashes Ashes We All Fall Down. Then he says "Again, again" every time we finish. He always makes sure we include baby too, I hold Rachel and he holds her hand.

Lately when he says his prayer I will start it out by saying "Dear Heavenly Father" and he seems to always say "Buzz". Each time I try, this is the only word he doesn't repeat correctly. Maybe it is a complement to our Father, since James still thinks Buzz is one of the coolest things around. Hopefully our Father in Heaven has a sense of humor.
I just love this stage of learning and reactions.
James is the BOMB!!! He ROCKS!!

Small.........

2011-02-12T14:17:00.000-08:00

Yet so Simple....

To Please.

It's so true, that it is the small and simple things that make us happy.

This last week I had a reality check.

Sometime I find myself making check lists and trying to accomplish this and that, keeping a clean house, taking care of the kiddos and just doing the mommy things we do.

Well, the other day I thought I had a great day until Josh came home and asked me how my day was. I totally let go and cried. It had been forever since I have cried and I really think I just needed to cry for a second and be held.

Yes, I am a girl!

Josh has great knowledge and at the time it wasn't really what I wanted to hear, yet it is what I needed to hear.

The gist was that he has never asked me to be a certain way or to get anything done or to have dinner on the table, the only thing he usually says when he walks out the door is to do him a favor. And his favor is for me to have fun with our kids.

Now I look at that and really think, wow I never really realized what he was actually saying. He was telling me to take time and make these moments with James and Rachel really count. Create time for these little precious children to feel their mommy's love. I will admit that I don't go a day without reading James a book or singing him a song or holding Rachel, but the thing that I am forgetting to do is to just be happy when Josh comes home. I need to wrap my arms around him and let him know just how grateful I am to have him in my life. I want him to always be excited about coming home. And he even expressed that it was more important for him to come home to a happy wife than to come home to a clean house with dinner on the table.

I need to stop having so much expectations on myself and really just smile, be happy and show love whenever I can.

And while I am cleaning the house, folding the laundry or even crafting just doing it without thinking what else needs to be done.

I am lucky to have a husband that doesn't expect my house to look a certain way when he comes home, all he expects is to come home to a wife who has spent the day loving his children and is ready to love him.

This teaches me that my man is simple. He really only needs a few things to be happy and I am one of those.

My favorite days are the ones I spend still in my pajamas, cuddling in bed with my sweeties, reading books, playing with toys, dancing, tickling and doing anything that brings big huge smiles to this little handsome face....

and this pretty one

(who is super duper cute when she sucks that little thumb).

They are only this small for the time being and they enjoy the simple things more than we will even realize.

Just yesterday I spent my day with dishes in the sink until 4:00 pm, but had a fun filled day blowing bubbles, coloring, playing with his cool cars and track, reading book after book and having a tickle war. James even helped me make dinner (this is one of his favorite things to do- help me out in the kitchen and be right up on the counter with me). You have no idea how much this little guy laughed yesterday. He was so hysterical, that he made me laugh. We were singing and dancing and pounding on the floor (sorry neighbors), but really being kids.

I know it is these moments in life that I will look back at and smile. I will never look back and say- I wish I would have had a cleaner house.

Rachel at 6 months

2011-02-08T20:39:00.000-08:00

My little angel is half a year today.

Where did this time go?

Sometimes I wish I could freeze the time and just take it in even more than I already do.

Rachel, sweetheart, you are the happiest baby I have ever seen.

You squeal whenever you are tickled and just have the cutest, BIGGEST smile.

You love sitting up all by yourself.

You drool a ton all the time and you totally suck your cute little thumb.

It is the cutest thing seeing you just go to town sucking your dainty little finger. I love it.

You love rice cereal and have just started eating your veggies. You don't seem to like the green beans much, but like squash and mixed veggies a lot. I really hope you are a vegetable liker. You are a messy eater and love to grab the spoon while it is entering your mouth.

Your hands are always moving and grabbing for anything you can get your hands on.

Anything that you can grab goes right to your mouth.

Just today you grabbed for some candy I was eating and once I moved it away from you, you started crying as if I had just hurt you or something. You love food and I can tell that you want to try anything that anyone else is eating now. You don't like being left out.

You are so good at pushing your upper part off of the floor and rolling. You don't roll a ton, but once in a while. But you do get fussy if your on your front side for to long.

You still love being held more than anything else.

You love your big brother so much. You get so excited when he comes and lays next to you or gives you any kind of attention.Whenever you cry he is so sweet and always gives you his Buzz blanket or dinosaur, trying to sooth you.

You really like music and when I sing.

Right before I lay you down I always sing "I am a child of God" or "Angels Above" and then give you a big kiss and tell you just how much I love you.

This month, these little lace leggings have been my favorite thing on you. Your little rolly legs look so so cute in them. You have totally figured out your feet, and am not quite sure what they do, but you love grabbing them and will even suck your bare toes sometimes. It's hilarious.

You also have taken on one of daddy's traits.

His tongue biting when he is focusing.

You totally bite your tongue sometimes when you are focusing too(or is it just that you have found your tongue and you like the feeling of it?)We will find out later on I guess.

You had Nana as your first babysitter this month, it was the first time away from Mommy.

Nana said you did so well. You took a bottle wonderfully and were happy until you got overly tired.

Nana always tells us you are so beautiful and just loves staring and holding you.

You are finally sleeping through the night!

HALLELUJAH!!

Since you now have your own room and aren't sleeping right next to me in your bassinet, you have finally had to learn to cry it out and am now awesome at sleeping.

You usually sleep around 8 hours on average, it is so nice for your mama.

You still nurse every 3 hours and you are a pro.

You are BEAUTIFUL in every way!!

And I am totally in love with you.

Baby girl,

I hope you always know just how special and dear you are to me. You are my angel baby and I look forward to your smile every single morning and I just love love how attached you are to me.You make everyday simply worth it and I feel so blessed to have you as mine!

I'll love you forever

I'll like you for always

As long as eternity my baby you'll be.

xoxox

Your Mama
(P.S a few of these are taken with my new camera, but I have not photo shopped or editted any yet. I am seriously just trying to figure out this high tech camera that is freaking awesome. It's one step at a time.)

A New Year, My New Ways

2011-02-04T00:24:00.000-08:00

2011 is here!

Yes, I know it is already February and I should have started my New Years Resolutions a month ago.

You would be proud of me, I wrote them down, but as I sit here thinking about what I should write, I realized something.....

Each year I list the different topics: Spiritual, Physical, Mental, etc and then a goal.

But my goals are way to broad and you can't measure it, so when the next year comes around- I always have the same goal listed again (as if I never reached it). I feel I am better today then I was a year ago, but this year I really want to list things that I can measure and know I am accomplishing.

One of my goals each year is just to become more spiritual and physically fit and all in all to be a better person.

Well, I still want to do this, just this year I want to do it better and differently.

So bear with me and my babbling of disorganized thoughts at this very moment.

Here are some new things I want to do or be better at:

Be a happier person and smile more. When my husband comes home I want to make him feel like he has entered a home where he doesn't question if he is loved. Even when I have unproductive days or frustrating days I want him to know that I am happy he is home. Smile at strangers and make a bigger effort to go out of my way to be happier and upbeat around peers and family. Smile, I hear it is contagious.
Realize just how good I have it. My life has everything I really need. Don't get down from small, tedious things that really have no significance.
Know that I am the one who chooses my attitude and that no one else can change that.
Remind myself everyday that I am a child of God and think of what he would have me do each day. Even if it be something small, make a difference with a text,a phone call or face to face conversation.
Be positive always about those you love. Don't try to change someone or have negative feelings, but try to change my own thinking- Just love them! Even if it is hard because of their past or choices.
Blog with feeling and reality. Let others know I struggle and go through trials and don't live a perfect little life with no ups and downs. ( So be aware )
Live in the moment and stop thinking everything has to be clean and perfect all the time. Let it slide and hug my babies, read books, play games and be silly more often. They will remember these moments and will never look back and remember if my house was clean or not.
Make my house a haven from the world. A place where you can feel the spirit and others know they are welcome.
Attend the temple once a month and go with reason. Really search for the comfort and answers that I need. Remember through out the month how I felt with in the walls of the temple.
Provide and make healthy and yummy meals at least 4 times a week. I love having dinner ready for Josh after a long day of school and I can only imagine how hungry he is when he gets home. One of the ways to a mans heart is through food. It is a nurturing thing.
Have pillow talk a few times a week and only focus on my babe. Give more of me to him.
Do something active everyday.
Come up with at least one new thing every week for James to experience and try or learn.
Spend one on one time with James at least once a day
Spend one on one time with Rachel at least once a day
Hug and kiss Josh, James and Rachel as much as I can. Say "I Love you" a lot.
Be patient with James, my 2 year old who is Mr. Independent.
When giving consequences to James, stay calm -yet firm. Don't let my frustration show. Always tell him I love him after the consequence is over.
Read more good books that help me feel the spirit.
Become more educated in the scriptures. Instead of just reading to say I read, read with purpose to learn. Read the New Testament (I have never read it before, I have always read the Book of Mormon time after time) along with a commentary to help me understand hidden meanings and purpose. It doesn't matter how much I have read, but it does matter if I learn anything from it and understand what is being said.
Say morning prayers. Before I start the day realize that Heavenly Father wants me to say hi to him first, just as James says hi to Josh and I first thing in the morning. Make it a priority to really talk to God just as I would my own parents and thank him for specific things. Never say the same prayer twice. Tell God what is on my mind and ask him what I can do to be an instrument in his hands each day.
Recognize tender mercies and thank him right when it happens. Never think it was just luck, it is always God who has his hand in things.
Be content with my life right now, today. Don't think something will make me happier, it is learning to be happiest today, not tomorrow (or I will always be searching).
Try something new once a month.
Learn about my new camera - Canon 40D- and take tons and tons of pictures.
Sew more things for Rachel (mostly because shes a girl and we all know there are more things out there for her gender) and James with and without patterns. Make whatever my heart desires. Learn from others who are willing to share their talents. Don't be scared to ask for help.
Get back into oil painting. Paint something to display in my home this year.
Call family more often, be the one making a big effort.
Have my phone more accessible for those trying to get a hold of me. But don't let it become something I can't live without.
Be on time for 9:00 church, and that doesn't mean in time to take the Sacrament.
Prepare to teach Young Women's in advance and pray for ways to touch the girls. Make a difference in their lives. Really get to know them, laugh with them and become someone they can lean on. Pray and be aware of their needs.
Visit Teach 100%, take initiative and get it done sooner than later.
A Clean house is a Happy house ( less mess=more room for the spirit and less confusion and worry)
Provide experiences where James feels good and learns about Jesus, good choices, how to be nice, manners, etc. Persistence is key and so is repetition.
Go the extra mile for those I may not know.
Recognize who needs help and jump to the chance.
Have at least 1 couple over per month that we don't know.
Create memories (dinners, games, movie nights, activities, hang outs, date nights, play dates, crafting, FHE, etc)with friends at least a few times a month.
Have family and friends over for dinner a few times a month.
Make a new meal once a week.
Have an organized- no clutter home (it's okay if there are toys and minor things like that, but clean as in not dusty, dirty and messy).
Keep my teaching certificate current.
Be better at organizing bills and paying them on time.
Save money shopping for groceries- learn and use Grocery Smarts.
Go to sleep earlier at least 3 times per week. (Josh and I are total night owls and go to sleep way to late almost every night- thus, we dread mornings because we are exhausted. Especially with kids who wake up early.)
Floss everyday- I brush all the time, but slack at flossing.

So these are things that came to me, that I need to work on and make changes. Changes are good, they make you stronger and a better person. Even if I work on just a few of these each month, I will eventually become well rounded and better than I was in 2010.
And isn't that all of our goals, to be better then yesterday?
It's worth a try.

Happy New Year!

Our little COUGARS!

2011-02-03T22:50:00.000-08:00

It was Airforce vs BYU and our little family were BYU's biggest fans.

Rachel was smiling almost the whole way through her first BYU game. There was one instance where BYU scored and the crowd went crazy and she just shreeked because of how loud it was- poor little girl- and minutes later she was smiling again.

James was raising those arms up while everyone sang the BYU fight song.

He loved the part-

"FIGHT FIGHT FIGHT, GOooooo COUGARS!"

(I love watching him and seeing how observant and aware he is in his surroundings, he picks up more than I give him credit for. He is a smart little stud.)

Need I say more?

We had a fun day sporting BYU, daddy's favorite team- making it our favorite as well.

I never knew just how invested Josh was in BYU football and basket ball. He doesn't just like BYU, he lives to see them play. He loves BRIGHAM YOUNG UNIVERSITY SPORTS. So I have learned that I need to show more interst and excitement for when they play. I have always enjoyed going to real games, but have never been one to watch it on TV.

Josh would LOVE it if I became more of a diligent fan.....maybe one day, after I learn the whole game of football.

After the great victory win, we went and celebrated at James favorite restaurant, Pirate Island and ate pizza, played on all the toys and arcade games. Then we went to the mall. James favorite store is the Disney Store, he could stay in there for hours on end. It is always a struggle getting him to leave. One of his regular things he always does is grabs his favorite stuffed Disney characters and lines them up on the ground and then plays with them. He already has such an imagination. As you can see, he is definitely still into Toy Story, and he has really been loving any type of dinosaur.

This was a super fun, great and eventful day. I want to create more days like these- where we just hang out and don't have a schedule to live by, or errands to run- just a time to do what we feel like at that given minute.

Isn't it easy to just watch your child and be completely entertained for hours.

Oh how I love my little man who is always on the move and soaking everything in.

Oh how I love my little lady who is just content and full of smiles all the time (if she is fed and rested).

These small moments are here and I just need to soak it all in before they are over.

Time is flying by......

The End of 2010

2011-02-03T21:57:00.000-08:00

To Brianhead We Go...

We headed to Brianhead the day after Christmas to spend time with Josh's older brother and his awesome family. It was freezing up there. Oh my gosh, it snowed about 2 feet and snow plows where everywhere. Well we spent a lot of our time in the cabin with the niece and nephews. We spent one night making gingerbread houses. We had a competition and Benny and mine won most creative. Ours is the second from the left, we did a two story town house. James spent most of his time eating candy and going from lap to lap.

It has been almost 10 years since I last went skiing, and I am proud to say that I did it and did pretty good considering it has been so long. It was a total blast and I forgot about the adrenaline that rises when you are on top of that mountain looking down. I love the power (or no power) you have when you take off, not knowing where the slope leads or what you will be approaching but just going. It is the snow that is underneath you that you trust or just hope you can keep in control when sliding on top of it. I will admit that my heart kind of skips a beat when I get going way fast, but I just pretend I have complete control and then it seems like I can keep in control better. The first day I went I felt like I caught on so easily, but the next day after the huge snowfall, with a few feet of snow and POWDER everywhere was a big challenge.I just went with Jason, Chan and Carter who are pretty good and seemed to slow everyone down as they would be down at the bottom and I would just be taking my gay old time, being buried under the powder and loosing control. Even though it was way harder and slower, it was a blast. I love snowing and really want to do more of it. We love Brianhead and are so excited Jason and Melissa bought a cabin so we can spend more time there. I just adore these two. They are the most giving, unselfish, loving and accepting people and I am so spoiled being apart of their family. I always feel super comfortable and welcomed around them, plus they know how to have fun.

Rachel loved Chase and wasn't at all scared of him (or is that just because I have complete control over what she does and where she is?). Her and James cuddled next to the fireplace with this amazing, well trained and friendly dog. One day I really want to get a dog for James, he gets so excited around them and I just can imagine them being best buds.

With all the fun we had, eating good grub, playing games and just talking, we encountered terrible nights- probably the worst I have ever experienced. First night I had a crying baby, she wasn't loving the ground and new place. And of course when a baby is crying in a cabin, you don't let them cry it out, so I had her next to me for the majority of the night, not sleeping at all. It was a tough night with James too, he would wake up and crawl into bed with us. When he sleeps he is everywhere- snuggling with you one minute, then his feet end up at your head the next. That night seemed bad, but the next night measured up too. Josh was struggling to breath up there. The elevation was way high and he couldn't adjust. Thus, he ended up scaring me and taking a bath, with cracking noises coming from his lungs, vomiting and just feeling awful and looking like death. He couldn't bare it any longer so we took off the next afternoon and right when we got off the mountain he felt fine. It's crazy what elevation can do to him, we gotta figure something out for him, so our future fun is not ruined. Any suggestions?

Happy New Years!!

New Years Eve was a whole lot different for us this year........

Early New Years Eve was fun with the kiddo's, we went to our favorite ice cream shop- Cold Stone and chowed down. James was loving it- saying "Ice (slurring an s at the end) Ceam" over and over again. He thoroughly loves ice cream, just like his mama.

Cake batter ice cream with raspberries and graham crackers-my favorite, unless I am wanting chocolate, then it is cake batter with brownie and camel.

Yummy! My mouth is salivating just thinking about it.

Am I a bad mom?

I totally let Rachel have her first taste of sugar. I mean I wanted her to have some yummies too.

I couldn't leave her out- right?

Don't be jealous......But at 11:30 pm I left my hubby at home and headed to Salt Lake to pick up my parents from the airport- what better time to fly in, but at midnight on New Years.

So I watched the clock and at 11:59 I called the love of my life and guess what I hear right next to me, his phone ringing.

So at midnight on New Years Eve I was talking to his voice mail. Oh it's a great start for a new year.

Looking Back at the top 5 things that happened in 2010:

#1. RACHEL MARIE was born healthy and has brought so much joy and love to our home every single day she has been with us.

#3. Amber (my sis) had Channing Michael- a miracle all of us prayed for after 3 years of trying.

#4. Josh did his student teaching for Seminary and LOVED it and stuck with school.

#5. James growing into a toddler, he really is a super good boy who makes us laugh with the things he does and the small words he says. His Buzz birthday was a huge highlight, as well as Christmas as he understood more of what was going on and his excitement to bring the magic into these short 24 hour moments of joy.

All in all, the greatest things that happened this year includes being able to go home where I know I am loved, appreciated and needed.

I have grown stronger having 2 children and going through the hard and sometimes questionable journey of getting Josh through school. We know it will pay off.

So our story continues, who knows what it will bring.

So here we go into a new year unaware of what may come.......

Moving, Pregnant..... WHAT?

2011-01-25T23:43:00.000-08:00

So life has been changing and we are starting a new chapter in our life......For all of you who think I am pregnant from reading my face book status, NO I am not. Would I really face book everyone and tell everyone like that? No way. I barely am ever on face book as we speak anyways.

And yes, we have moved again. Marking almost 5 major moves in our 4 years of marriage.

So to make the story short and to the point I will back up to a few weeks ago. Our new friends from our pretty new ward, the Clary's , who moved in close to the same time we did around August/ Sept came over for dinner and right off the bat we liked them and totally clicked. Both wives and hubby's totally get along and like each other a lot- which is a bonus. Well they have been the assistant managers for a Storage unit and the managers where moving out and they are now the managers. The assistant manager position became available and we thought it would be wise to apply and see what happens. Well, happily we got it, thanks to them for putting a good word in for us. With this whole job/ move I completely put it in the Lords hands and said I would love to move if it was his will for us. I am seriously to the point in my life where I can be happy just knowing I am where God needs our little family. Even though we hadn't sold our contract with our other place, we moved and are still looking for someone to rent out the old place. I know it will happen, I just hope soon. So we moved into the house and are in a much nicer place with an extra room for Rachel(more sleep for daddy and I), and a lot more living space. It has been recently renovated and the windows have a great view of all the storage units- it's sweet, ha ha! After almost 2 weeks now, we are moved in and have already had my first day as assistant manager. It is freaking awesome, I stay upstairs and have the phone forwarded up to me and then customers just ring the bell and I go down. It is sweet and we get to pay a low amount on rent and save for a house eventually. We love our downstairs friends. We see them everyday and I just love that we live by such great people that we really enjoy. They have a little girl that James gets along with, so that is another bonus.

Well.... how good of friends are they really?

That is the question.

We didn't have Internet hooked in yet so I went down to use theirs. I checked my face book and left. Well Sunday at church I have a few of my friends congratulate me. I thought they were congratulating me on my new Young Women's calling. No..... on being pregnant.

"What?" I responded.

Ya. They tried to convince me that my hubby probably did it. No way, he's never on Face book.

So with Josh's phone during Sunday school I was checking it and there were like 12 comments on my status. Come to find out it said; "I guess sometimes God has an unexpected plan for you. Looks like we are getting another bundle of joy to add to our little family. Talk about a leap of faith..."

Ha, Ha, Ha I guess the joke was on me. It was the Clary's. They though that maybe we were mad. No reason to be mad........but revenge is mine! So I spent that night making sure everyone knew the truth. Family was just hurt that I wouldn't tell them first before the whole world. It's true fam, you are my number one and you will never find out more info on face book then by speaking to me- don't worry.

Now we live upstairs from these crazy new friends and we just love them. Thank goodness God puts people in your life that you can just connect with, laugh a ton with and have fun together.

Even though life has been a bit crazy and we are now in a new place, I am excited to be where we are and who knows what will come into our lives this year.

I am sure we will be here a year from now, but I really don't plan on getting pregnant for a long time. Rachel is still my baby. I am sure we will have many pranks and laughs, yet we may even experience tears and trials. Life is full of mystery and that is why I am glad God is on my side and with me everyday, and all the time.

Remember to Laugh.

This is what keeps me Happy.

I am so glad I married someone with a sense of humor, because I can honestly say that he makes me laugh everyday, even if it is over something silly and of no worth. Life is to short and it is what we make out of our lives. We are the ones who make our lives the way they are.

So I am making a choice now..... to make everyday better then the last and to take more time to laugh and be silly.

Today James, Rachel and I were dancing all over the house, making funny faces and getting dizzy. Rachel just smiled the whole time as we blared the music and got jiggy with it. We also made a fort with blankets and our kitchen table. I love hanging out with my babies and creating these kind of moments- seeing James's smile and excitement over something so minimal made me want to be a more adventurous and exciting mother.

Finding the Magic in Christmas

2011-01-09T01:19:00.000-08:00


Once James saw Jesus in the hallway, as we peeked out of the door asking daddy if it was okay to come out, I held both my babies as we walked down the stairs.Rachel was smiling like usual, but James was not sure what to think. Once he saw even more presents than the night before, he became more excited when we told him he could open them. The magic of Christmas was found in our home through our curious, excited and appreciative James and being in the presence of our baby Rachel.

We briefly talked about baby Jesus and than told James that "Santa is like Jesus and is the spirit of Giving" and that Santa brought all of these presents to us. This is our Christmas tree, the part that is in the back that is not really seen. I had James decorate it so that he wouldn't be as tempted to grab my decorations off. It worked like a charm. He moved about 5 of mine the whole time it was up, but never broke one. Everyday he would look at his decorations and take them off. Then place them back on. It was like everything came alive and new. He found so much joy with his imagination and was so interested when I would teach him something new about Christmas.

That magic that had faded a little each year since I was a child, was lit again and through James I felt that little Christmas magic that I had felt as a child.

A few of his favorite things this Christmas were:

Christmas trees and Christmas lights
Unwrapping presents
Playing with the nativity set every single day. I had it placed up on the table and he would always ask me if I could bring it down. He loved unwrapping each piece each day and I would have to put an end to playing with the pieces, or he could have gone on for hours.
His "choo choo" which is really cars on tracks, that he plays with all the time.
His grandparents and Nana who spends so much time with him when they see him.
His mommy and daddy who he knows loves him and is always there for him.
Candy, or anything sweet
Buzz and his new toy REX from Toy story. His new favorite thing is dinosaurs. He carries 3 of them around everywhere he goes (along with Buzz of course).

I loved hearing him say "dang do" after each gift he opened. He has really become a well mannered boy, since we are so persistent on thank you and please. I just hope he does it when we aren't around too.

Yet his biggest, most adored gift was his baby sister...........

........because she's the one who will be played with more than any toy this coming year. And she is the one who will smile at almost anything he does.

Yes, James doesn't know it yet, but one day he will look at her and say "I LOVE YOU".

This year was a lot more quiet than we are used to, yet this was a Christmas we will never forget. It was the first Christmas we had all to ourselves. We created traditions as a family and enjoyed all 4 of us. We all looked through our stockings and unwrapped the gifts from Santa. Then James handed our all the gifts to each one of us. Watching James unwrap some of his gifts, and then taking a brake and playing with what he got and then returning again to finish more, allowed the present unwrapping to last longer and therefore Christmas lasted a while even at our house. I made breakfast and then we just played some more and James was sure to unwrap Rachel's when she fell asleep. We talked to our family and found out what everyone did and got, while wished everyone a MERRY CHRISTMAS!

We got together with all of Josh's sisters(brothers live in Nevada) and mom and pa. We had a scrumptious dinner and then had a program at Jessica's house. We had a story of the nativity, a talent show and white elephant gifts. It was a hit and James had a blast with his cousin, while Rachel was held and kissed by everyone. I couldn't ask for a better extended family. They are so much fun and they are not only Josh's family but mine too. They are a true blessing in my life and the magic is knowing you can have 2 families that are yours and love you just the same.

May each Christmas become a little more magical than the last, through our little ones who make it possible.

Here comes Santa Clause.....

2011-01-08T23:39:00.000-08:00

..........Right down Santa Clause Lane.
Rachel and James couldn't wait to get their Candy Cane.


James waited in line patiently to sit on Santa's lap. Yet once we got there he wasn't quite sure what to do. He let Rachel be help by Santa first and then he knew it was okay. He told Santa he wanted a "choo choo". Then when I asked him to smile he would not look at me at all. So these are the best pictures we got. I think James knows more about Santa this year then last, yet I don't know if he really understands Santa's big job during Christmas time.

As for Rachel, she did an awesome job just sitting in Santa's arm looking cute in her Christmas dress before and after. Yet, once she looked up to see who was holding her........she changed her mind and started to cry. I think it was all the white hair and glasses. I would be scared too.

Rachel at 5 months

2011-01-08T23:08:00.000-08:00

16 lbs 8oz

25. 5 inches

In the 75% range

Growing healthy and is completely happy.

Rachel you have made us so happy and have made the adjustment to 2 so easy.

You are such a smiler.

You will be crying in your bassinet and I will come up to see if you are okay, and when you see me you stop crying instantly and give me a gummy big smile.

When I walk into a room, you know exactly who I am and just keep staring at me and even sometime start fussing until I hold you. I believe you are a mommy's girl.My favorite thing to see is when you wake up in the morning and how you get so excited when you see me. Your smile is to die for.

You love touching anything your hand can get a hold of, mostly my hair (which we find everywhere, even in your diapers) and while I nurse you, you love putting your fingers in my mouth and have me nibble on them. I love that too though,I think it is a form of security for you.

I have loved loved nursing you so much. You are so good at it and I just love having that one on one time with you in bed and every 3 hours during the day. It makes me stop everything I am doing and really focus on you, my little angel. I really feel a bonding between me and you.

This Christmas was really magical, even though you had no idea what was going on. You made it special, being our baby and talking about baby Jesus. You loved to look at all the Christmas lights and I know you were curious as to what all the hype was about. Happy 1st Christmas sweetie.

Now that you are five months, you love to sit up in a bumbo or highchair.

You have been teething for the last month and are a big slobberer. You love your little fingers or anyone elses that will let you gum them. You have never been a big binky baby.

Today you found your own thumb (I must admit it was adorable to see you sucking it, but I don't want that to become a habit). I can feel two teeth on the bottom coming through. I use oragel on your gums and you seem to really love the taste off it and how it feels, because you always give me a happy face.

You are wearing 3-6 month clothing, but I can tell they won't last you long. You are a growing little girl. You have the cutest thighs. They are so rolly and your skin is super soft. So many people who hold you always comments on your soft skin.
You laugh so hard when mommy or daddy tickle you on your thighs, tummy or armpits. It is the cutest thing- watching you squeal. You are a big baby talker too, you love making noises and you can go on for a long time.
Whenever James is around you, it seems like you want his attention. When you gives you kisses or shows you pictures in a book, you smile so big. I really think you love that boy already.

You are trying to sit up by yourself, but usually can't keep your upper body from falling over (your top heavy). You roll a lot and you love your little toy dangler thing that you lay under. It keeps you very occupied. You hate the car seat and let us all know it.
Sadly, I can not say that you sleep through the night yet. You gave me a few great nights, but now you wake up every 4 to 5 hours. I don't know what happened this last week, but you were waking up every 3 hours. Please snap out of this and sleep more just for your mommas sake. I feel exhausted and totally tired all the time.
You started eating rice cereal and love it. You are pretty good at keeping it down, but you are always pulling at the spoon, wanting to do it yourself. You have a pretty great grip too.
You are adorable and such a wonder to have in our lives. You make me realize everyday, just how blessed I am. I love being your mommy and I just love how much you always want me or need me, but you go to strangers pretty easy too.

Just a side note:
On the day mommy and daddy spoke in church, you were fed and taken care of and I thought you would sleep through all of the sacrament meeting like you usually do. Well, about one minute before we went up to speak you freaked out, so loud even the person conducting made a comment that you didn't want me to speak. Thank goodness to my friend, she took you out and was able to calm you down. But I honestly had never seen you so frustrated. Perfect timing I guess- ya right. I felt so bad.
Cries, no sleep, poopy diapers: I wouldn't change this for anything.

We've got Talent

2011-01-05T15:30:00.000-08:00

Our family has been in the circus for the last 3 generations. We train them at a young age.

(joking of course)

For the Christmas parties we attended this year, this was our talent during the talent shows.

The Nights Before Christmas

2011-01-03T22:53:00.000-08:00

Where spent:

Hugging

and Kissing

Playing in the snow

Bundling up for the cold outdoors

At Jumping Jacks for a ward activity

Having a little Christmas 2 days before with my few family members. This was my first Christmas ever not being home in Canada with everyone for Christmas eve and day.

Mom and dad gave James a little airplane track that he loves to watch Go!

They gave me angel body butter, leopard print warm PJ's.Josh the game sequence and Rachel a crib mattress. I loved having them stop in on their way to Virginia, to spend Christmas with Stacy, my sis and her family.
Before Christmas Eve arrived, I cooked some yummy meals. We read Christmas books and watched Christmas Story and the Grinch Who Stole Christmas. I baked and took plates of goodies and Christmas cards to Friends and Family. We did a Secret Santa and ended up looking for my friends ring in the snow and ice water from 11:00 pm to 6:00 am. It was a night we will never forget; freezing, crying, praying, helpful stranger, hot chocolate, and finally finding it at 11:00 am and rejoicing.

CHRISTMAS EVE:

Visiting the Salem Pond Lights on Christmas Eve. We tried to go the Spanish Fork Festival of Lights, but the line of cars was hours too long.

James had a great time, especially watching the ducks. Can you believe it, there were ducks out being fed the day before Christmas.


After our little walk, we talked to James about the importance of helping others and how some people just don't have a lot. We got together a bunch of things and food and James helped me place it on their doorstep, and we ran. Then we headed home and unwrapped gifts from Santa's Elves.

We each got warm Christmas PJ's.

Look at her little booty bear bum. So dang cute!

For the 12 days of Christmas we had opened one piece of the Nativity every night. Whenever James saw the Christmas bag, he knew there would be another piece to add to the stable. For the 12 days I read from the children scripture books the story of Jesus' birth, yet each day I would add on another part, according to which piece he would open. This was a highlight for James. He loved playing with each character and placing them in the stable. Finally on Christmas eve he unwrapped BABY JESUS. James held baby Jesus and we talked about how important he was and that it was his birthday. From all the many nights of playing with these breakable characters, James only managed to break Joseph's head off. Oh well, the lesson of Jesus is definitely in his mind, and that is what really matters.

Twas the night before Christmas and all through the house, not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse.

James was excited but unsure what to think, and slept until nine and then woke up in a blink.

Rachel slept snugly and had milk dreams, and gave a big smile all night it seems.

When up they all got and Jesus appeared in the hallway, wrapped in his cloth and even some hay.

They knew it was time, because JESUS was HERE, and mommy took them downstairs without any fear.

(To create a main focus on Baby Jesus, more than Santa, I told James he couldn't come out of his room until Jesus was in the hallway.... it was neat seeing James point and say "Baby", then me asking "Baby Who?" and him saying "Jesus". I want my kids to focus more on Jesus, than if Santa came. My kids may be to young to understand, but it might stick some year if I make it a tradition, right?)

Santa did find us.......

Tis' the Season...

2011-01-03T20:43:00.000-08:00

To be busy during the month of December..........

.........Having Fun!!

We played in the snow a bunch, which James just loves. When he sees snow he tries going out without even getting his boots on. He seems to really like eating it too. Who taught him that?

We made a snowman with James for the first time. His hands got so cold he started to cry. But he quickly returned back to helping us out. His favorite part was coloring the snow and trudging through the snow.

We went to Nana's house and made awesome gingerbread houses. Most the candies James was planning to put on our train gingerbread ended up in his mouth instead. His favorite candies were suckers. Nana had a stash of them and he kept on bringing suckers out the whole night. Nana had forgotten she had it and was questioning where they were coming from. Later on that night she figures out that James had climbed up onto the laundry machine to find them.

James had a blast with his cousins Molly and Sawyer. They all get along so well. Sawyer and James always tackle each other to the floor. It is a sight to see. It cracks us all up.

To end the night with a bang, Nana read them Christmas stories.

Nana always says there is something special between her and James.

He loved being with his Nana that's for sure.

We had a bunch of friend Christmas celebrations. We would always tell James we were going to a party and he would get a huge smile on his face, because that always meant friends to play with, yummy food, candy and maybe even Santa.

This was a fun night with my girlys and their families.


Thanks to Cam, the man in pink, who made a delicious turkey for all of us to enjoy.We had a great time this night watching our kiddos play, laughing of course (a usual), eating and exchanging white elephant gifts with some of our favorite friends. Here we all are with our sweeties.

Brad and Cassey

Taylor and Curtis

Amanda and Jeff

Stacey and Cam

And of course US.


Here is Rachel surrounded by the biggest studs and her tiny girly friend.

MEETING SANTA CLAUSE

We went to a bunch of Christmas parties where Santa came to visit.

This was our church ward party. We had breakfast, visiting with our new friends, singing, crafts and Santa.

I wasn't quite sure how James would react this year to Santa, since last year he broke up into tears, but he actually showed an interest and seemed a little interested, but also kind of shy. He was excited about the candy cane, but ready to got off his lap fast.

We also went up to a huge cabin in Heber, for a Doterra Christmas Party. There was a chocolate fountain, lots of food, a big theater room, ping pong, pool, hot tubing, gingerbread making, a talent show and Santa too.We even got to spend the night. I love the mountains and being away from all the hustle and bustle.

We went to our new friends,the Cleary's Christmas Party. Here is my little family hanging out in the kid room watching a movie.


We ate hand dipped and yummy Christmas sweets Becca slaved over all day, played some games, made a cute craft and mostly visited.


For FHE we read about Baby Jesus and had the little ones act it out. Didn't you know that Joseph had a donkey too? James and Rachel loved holding and taking care of Baby Jesus.

We loved all the other parties, I just didn't get pictures. We had another turkey dinner with our Pleasant Grove friends, then the guys went down to the man cave and played their video games, while us girls made Christmas Poo and talked. We also had another white elephant dessert party with a few couples from our new ward. I really believe people add onto the excitement and love that God wants us to feel during this great time of year.

Tis' the season to have so much fun with friends and family.

Merry Christmas to All

2010-12-24T21:41:00.000-08:00

May this Christmas be joyful and full of peace and happiness.

We have been so blessed this year with our newest addition.
She is so happy and full of goodness.
I hope all of you feel as blessed as we do.

My youngest sibling and only brother is serving his LDS mission in California.

There is no greater place he could be this time of season, serving who we celebrate- Jesus Christ.

I am so proud of him!

I miss him like crazy and can't wait until next years Christmas when we are all together.

The True Meaning of Christmas

2010-12-19T22:11:00.000-08:00

As I look into these innocent, precious eyes I am reminded of why we celebrate Christmas. It is the celebration of the Christ child, that makes this holiday season so special and peaceful. Jesus is the reason for the season. We must all look at what we value the most during this time of year. There are only a few days until the big day, and we may be rushing around making sure we have decorations up, presents bought, food, gifts, etc and focus to much on the hustle and bustle we are bombarded with. Have we made room for our Lord, Jesus Christ. Is he present in your homes and in your heart.

Josh and I talked in sacrament last week and were given the topic-

Christmas Traditions Centered on Christ.

Here is a little from my talk:

As I think abour the short number of days left until Christmas, I feel the need to keep my own thoughts focused more on the Savior. I want to slow down a nd truly see and feel the true beauty of this time of year. I want to be part of bringing a little more peace into this world and teaching my children to focus more on others and Christ's birth.

I briefly retold the story of Christ's birth on the American continent.......... "they saw the young child with Mary his mother, and fell down and worshiped him, and when they had opened their treasures, they presented unto him gifts; gold, frankincense, and myrrh."

President Thomas S. Monson quotes," time changes, years speed by, but Christmas continues sacred. In this marvelous dispensation of the fulness of times, our opportunity to give of ourselves are indeed limitless, but are also perishable. There are hearts to gladden. There are kind words to say. There are gifts to be given. There are deeds to be done. There are souls to be saved."

So how will you and I make sure this Christmas is focused on our Christ child?

A Prayer for December Poem

Dearest God,

Please never let me crowd my life

Full to the brim

So like the keeper of Bethlehems Inn

I find I have no room for Him.

Instead, let my hearts door,

Be ever open,

Ready to welcome the newborn King.

Let me offer the best I have to Him.

Who gives me everything.

It is never to late to introduce new traditions into your family. Throughout my life my parents have always tried their best to bring us closer to Christ and the true meaning of Christmas. Some have stuck and we do them every year. Some we have tried and have not done them a second time. But this is fun in trying new things. THings that have flopped have created memories for our family.

Think of a few traditions you do every year. Now think of ones that only center around Jesus.

Traditions we do each year:

Scripture Bell Advent Calendar/ Bear Advent Calendar( activities to do as a family everyday)
Act out the Nativity, while someone reads from the Bible
Read the story " Teach the Children" the symboles of Christmas (eg. Santa: spirit og giving, Evergreen Trees: eternal life, Christmas Lights: Savior is the light of the world.)
Have someone over for Christmas
Visit the sick and needy
Attend a live nativity together
Baking and delivering plates of goodies to neighbors and friends
Caroling
Pick a less fortunate family to give a Christmas to (food, gifts, Christmas tree etc)

When I was 8 years old, I learned the true meaning of CHristmas. My parents asked me to pick my favorite toy and to wrap it up as a present to give to someone who does not have much. I remember choosing my favorite barbie doll and crying when I had to depart with her. Yet as we entered the families apartment, we entered a place that had no furniture, barely any food and was just bare. It looked as though no one even lived there. We brought in the Christmas tree, gifts and boxes of food and watched as the family shed some tears of gratitude. It hit me hard- this is what Christmas is really about- Giving, not Receiving. I will be forever grateful for this humbling experience that has changed my attitude of Christmas. It was not about my Barbie anymore, it was about having the heart of service and feeling that love from your Savior. To show Jesus you love him, you serve. "For as you do it unto the least of my brothern, you have done it unto me."

The best tradition of all- doing kind deeds for others on a daily basis.

Traditions I want to start and teach:

The White Stocking: Family hang up a white stocking at the beginning of December. It is a reminder to do kind acts of service for the Savior. Encourage family members to place notes of appreciation, love and noticing good deeds of others. Read all of them on Christmas.Your gift to the Savior. Then write a goal for the following year that you will do for the Savior. At the Beginning of December the following year, read your gift to Jesus and see if you did it.
12 Days of Christmas Nativity: For the 12 days of Christmas open up one gift a day that has a figure from the Nativity. Read the story or scripture each night and keep on adding more verses until baby Jesus is born. On Christmas Eve unwrap Jesus, Jesus is born.
Jesus is Here!: Christmas morning all kids are peeking out of their doors wondering if they can come out yet. Tell them they can come out when the nativity piece of baby Jesus is sitting int he hallway. They focus more on "Jesus is Here!" , instead of did Santa come?
Family Service with Baby Jesus: Do a small kindness for Jesus by soing a service for someone inyour family, such as secretly making their bed and leaving a small figure of the Christ Child at the site of the service. That person then has to do a secret service to someone else in the family. Creating the Spirit of Service in the Home.
12 days of Christmas Story Books: Unwrap a meaningful and uplifting book each day and read as a family together.

David O. McKay said " Christmas is a fitting time to renew our desires and to strengthen our determination to do all that lies within our power to make real among men the message haeralded by the angles when the Savior was born. Let us glorify God by seeking the good, the true, and the beautiful. Let us strive to establish peace on earth by exercising that same good will towards one another which God has shown us."

I n conclusion, I believe a beautiful way to prepare to have a Christ centered celebration during this Christmas Season is to pick traditions that will allow us to become even closer to our brother ,Jesus. We need to express gratitude and contemplate the beautiful meaning, life and example of Him whose birth we celebrate. May we take time to give thanks and ponder the matchless gift He has giiven us, then watch for the miracles to follow.

In the name of Jesus Christ AMEN.

Rachel at 4 months

2010-12-14T21:18:00.001-08:00

Rachel, you just keep on getting more and more beautiful.
I spend most of my days just staring at you and kissing your cute chubby cheeks and thighs. I call you my chunky monkey.
You have really grown this last month as you can lift your whole upper chest up and are really steady. You can pretty much sit up all by yourself with a little of my help. Daddy has you doing your balancing act and you can stay up for at least 10 seconds. You are super ticklish and love to be on your tummy more than your back.
You smile all the time, everyone is always telling me how happy you are. You are such an easy baby and not high maintenance at all. You still love being snuggled and held, but you are able to go to sleep by yourself now. You cry a little bit when I put you down sometimes, but are usually able to fall asleep in less then 5 minutes on your own. You are super good at nursing, but still won't sleep through the whole night. You usually wake up around 4:00 Am, but that is it, so I can't complain. In the mornings you love snuggling with your mommy and I totally soak these one on one times with you.
You love people and usually don't care about being passed around. If I we keep you up, you sure let us know that you are tired. You are eating every 3 hours, with no snacks in between. You are a fast drinker and only take about 15 minutes to feed, you love your milk. You are usually decked out in the cutest clothes and always wearing a bow or flower. You turn so many heads and everyone thinks you are adorable.
You are a dream come true and I just love having my own little angel with me all the time. This stay at home mommy thing is way to much fun, I wouldn't change it for the world.
I love you sweetheart and I can already tell that you have a charming, sweet and loving little personality. Don't grow to fast, mommy loves the stage you are at. I just wish that the infant stage could last double the amount of time it does.

James at 2 years old

2010-12-14T20:31:00.000-08:00

James you are now such a big boy.
You have grown so fast and I look at you now and just can't believe how handsome you are.
You have such a fun little personality and you make us laugh all the time. You love playing with other kids and kids love playing with you because you play so nicely the majority of the time.
You adore your little sister and I love watching you when you don't know I am. You show baby sister pictures in books, you give her kisses all the time and you make sure she is warm when she doesn't have a blanket. I know she loves you already because she always smiles at you when you are talking to her. You always call her "baby" and make sure that she is involved in prayers too. When I ask who you want to pray you usually say mommy or daddy, but just recently you point to yourself and say "Ames." You will sometimes start the prayer by yourself and you are doing well repeating the one words of importance that I say. You are so quick to say Amen though.
You talk a lot, not any sentences, but lots of words. I love that you can communicate and let me know what you want. You always ask for juice, but that can mean juice, milk or water. You always say dang do after you eat and give mommy a hug. You have good manners even in public places- you usually say pease or dang do without me asking you to.
Here are some of your favorite things:
Buzz, reading and looking at pictures in books, drinking out of your sippie, stroller rides, park, blanky, dumping things out, your fort under the stairs, daddy, baby, moma, nana, grandma and grandpa, outdoors, playing with other kids, Toy Story and Land Before Time movies, toothpaste, candy, cheese, any kind of fruit, coloring, making messes for mommy to clean up, cuddles at night and holding hands, kisses, dancing, tickles, airplane rides, singing popcorn popping and ring around the rossy.
Words you say everyday:
Momma- (first thing in the morning), Dadda, Baby, Juice, Buzz, Pease, Dank Do, Hold, Hair,
Things you do not like:
Almost every kind of vegetable, meat, blowing your nose, and sometimes diaper changing when it's poo-pee, when mommy tries to sit you on the toilet and you aren't interested (for the month of October you did awesome and didn't poo your pants for a few weeks- you were so interested and loved going on the potty. Now you aren't even interested and doesn't want anything to do with it.)
Things you do that I love:
You keep saying momma, momma, momma in the morning until I come and get you out of your crib. When you see me you stand up and put your arms up and I grab you. You wrap your little arms around me and for a moment let me hug and kiss you. I love the moments where you just don't let go.
I love when daddy comes home and you see him at the door. Your smile widens and you go running towards him. You give him a big hug and expect him to wrustle with you. Daddy takes you down to the ground and you just keep screaming and laughing for as long as daddy will last. You also love the pillow throwing game and the harder they throw it the better you like it. You have been taken down to the ground pretty hard.
I love it when you come into the bathroom while I am putting my makeup on and want to be right next to me on the counter. You always go through my bag and laugh when you pretend to put makeup on your face.
I love when you take baths with daddy or I and you want all your toys to join us too. It is a small tub, but you could care less. You just keep on asking "pease".
I think it is cute when you come up to me with a candy or something you want and say "Dang Do" as though I already said you could have it.
I totally like how you think Buzz is real and that he is your superhero. You take him everywhere and laugh or smile everytime you push his talking button. You taught yourself the Buzz lazer move and use it whenever someone is tackling you down or when we are playing.
I love how excited you get when we go to Mother Goose time at the library. You go onto the carpet and start dancing . You follow directions pretty well and love story time.
It is so cute when I see you just sitting on the ground looking at a book for long periods of time.Sometimes you will just stare at the same picture for a good 5 minutes. I often wonder what is going on in that head of yours.
I LOVE everything about YOU

You are dear to my heart and I am just amazed at your growth and interest in learning new things. You really are a smart boy, you catch on really quickly and are very observant. I love you little stud! I especially love your hugs, kisses and when you say Momma. I love that my name is the first to be said usually when you wake up or get hurt. I will always love you and protect you hunny.