Livin' the Dream

20 and 21 weeks pregnant

2012-02-04T11:33:00.000-08:00

21 weeks with our boy & girl

Falling behind in my belly shots. Here's some we took 2 and 3 weeks ago!


20 weeks

Weekend in LA

2012-01-22T20:18:00.000-08:00

We got away last weekend for our 10th anniversary! Lisa was a saint and kept the kids for four days while we saw the sights of LA. We got to see the musical Wicked which I've been looking forward to for a couple years now. It was amazing and we've had its fantastic music in our heads ever since.

We also hiked the hills of Hollywood and got to see the reservoir, walk the famous Hollywood Blvd, visit the LA temple and play on the beautiful Santa Clara beach. It was a dream to spend so much time together and forget about reality for a little while. I love being married to Rob - it feels like the years have ticked by so quickly.

Moby's house, well mostly just the gate house from this view, in Hollywood Hills.

It's true!

The weather was gorgeous and it looked like springtime with so many green trees and beautiful flowers.

Touching the ocean, it's been a while!

We had a yummy lunch at the restaurant you can see behind Rob here.

We stayed in a little house just up from Hollywood Blvd with a fun swing and a ballet bar...
we felt like we were living the Hollywood life!

We had an ultrasound the week before and found out we will have one boy and one girl! The children are super excited.The ultrasound also revealed a diaphragmatic hernia in our baby boy. This is a fairly serious condition where the diaphragm didn't form correctly and has left a hole where the the organs from the abdominal cavity can be pushed into the chest cavity. Our baby's stomach and intestines most likely, have been pushed close to his heart. This will require us to be in Salt Lake where they have pediatric surgeons who specialize in this treatment when the twins are born. I'll deliver at University Hospital where they'll stabilize him and send him in for surgery to straighten things out and repair his diaphragm. In case they come early, we have been advised to temporarily move to SLC at the end of April till they're born and he's breathing on his own. We won't know till he's born how severe his particular case is, but we welcome all prayers and thoughts on his behalf.

My Growing Belly

2012-01-08T19:58:00.000-08:00

I've begun a photo log of this pregnancy since I'm sure to surpass any limits to which I previously thought my belly could stretch. The first pic was taken Christmas Day (17 weeks pregnant) and looks bigger than the one we took last week (18 weeks pregnant), so I guess it depends somewhat on what I'm wearing.

The ultrasound is tomorrow! I must admit I've been counting it down to find out what we're having. Any guesses? Rob feels sure it's two boys. I've already bought adorable baby girl clothes (used), but I could probably love boys if that's what they are :)

This is today - 19 weeks

Breakfast with Santa

2011-12-14T21:41:00.000-08:00

Our only current believer. Jeremiah has taken to wandering around the house in a Santa cap shouting Ho Ho Ho, Merry Chrifmas!

There you have it... breakfast and Santa. Breakfast consisted of chocolate donuts and Sunny D. Oh and candy canes.
You can bet there was a significant sugar crash shortly thereafter.

Bennett and Audrey found this wonderful Christmas classic and enjoyed it thoroughly while I watched with delight.

We attended this ward tradition last Saturday at a ward member's home. The kids had a great time and we got to meet some more people in the neighborhood, aka, our ward. It's so fun to live in Utah - we're adjusting!

At our ward party that night we got to go to an outdoor amphitheater 10 minutes up the road to see a live reenactment of the Christmas Story. It was beautifully done in an amazing setting up against the red rocks. I love this season with so many chances to make memories with my family!

love that fall leaf crunch

2011-12-07T20:07:00.000-08:00

Packing - check, moving - check, unpacking, hosting family, Thanksgiving - check.

Now for time to enjoy our new home (almost twice the space!) and regain some sort of order to life. The move did go smoothly, although it's never a walk in the park. My sister, Lisa, came and cracked the whip to get us packed in Cottonwood, then left with her four and two of mine 5 days before the move. My mom flew in the next day and helped with all the final touches... huge understatement. We had lots of help from ward members and other friends and felt truly sad to leave our home in Arizona.

We were very relieved to finally see our house here in Saint George since Lisa had done only a 10 minute walk through and we had handed over a fair bit o money and signed the lease, sight unseen. It's a great place for us with a nice big yard and super friendly neighborhood. Did I mention it's half a mile from Lisa's new house? Yay!

The tree which was green and leafy when we moved in a few weeks ago, decided to lose just about all its leaves two nights ago. The kids have loved playing in the mounds of leaves, although I'm trying to encourage them to put them in big black bags. Here's a few moments we captured.

You may notice Mo in the picture with me. He's my parent's cute little fluffy dog that we're borrowing for a few months till my mom comes back to help when the babies are born in May! The kids love having a pet again.

thing 1 and thing 2

2011-10-22T14:34:00.000-07:00

Jeremiah's Three!

2011-10-14T20:46:00.000-07:00

So my baby turned three a week ago. He hasn't allowed me to call him baby in some time but I'm sure none of you will tell him I referred to him as such.

We celebrated by taking a long-anticipated trip to Out of Africa, a wildlife park 15 minutes down the road. The kids got to feed the giraffes, take a safari ride through the "Serengeti", see a tiger show with two Bengal tigers, pet a 15 ft. reticulated python and watch as all the lions and tigers and bears were fed. It had been 3 days, and boy were they excited. By the end, the outrageous price we had paid to get in seemed well worth it. I couldn't believe that was in our backyard!

Rena, a friend of mine, came along with her two children. I watch them on a regular bases while Rena teaches Audrey about her horses and how to trail ride. Rena also makes, of her own design, stick horses. They are beautiful, meticulously made and super affordable. Check them out at http://www.etsy.com/listing/68062372/stick-horse-chocolate-paint-hobby-horse?ref=sr_gallery_1&ga_search_query=stick+horse&ga_view_type=gallery&ga_ship_to=US&ga_search_type=handmade&ga_facet=handmade

So Jeremiah was the lucky boy who got one.

You can't see it, but Jeremiah is mounted on his horse and flying around the house here

Play dough now plagues our house on a daily basis

Jeremiah has been requesting birthday cupcakes for two months. Can you feel his excitement?

On his actual birthday, we took a trip down to Mesa. While Rob and I got to do some family names at the temple, the kids had some Grandma and Grandpa time with Rob's parents. We all went out to eat later before the drive home. They gave him a pillow pet frog since... well, Jeremiah was a bullfrog.

The Dirty Dash

2011-10-10T12:55:00.000-07:00

I'm so excited to have these awesome pictures that Ryan and Melissa took at the Dirty Dash two weeks ago. The Dirty Dash is a mud run/obstacle course - either 5k or 10k for adults and maybe 1/2 mile for the "piglets". Rob's company entered the race with a corporate discount and we couldn't resist after hearing about Aaron and Krystal's adventures last year. Ryan and Melissa are the official photographers for this series of races all over the country and we thought it would be great to see them in action... it was!

Rob decided to do the 10k without so much as a day of training. A lot of the participants dress up in funny things that look even funnier covered in mud. Rob wore the tuxedo his parents originally bought for his high school junior prom 15 years ago. He then wore it to his sister's wedding and on our wedding day too. We thought this would be a great way to retire it as it has gotten bit worn in places. He said he got comments like "hey elder!" and "your dry cleaner is going to kill you". Bennett was a ninja fighter - a costume that surprisingly survived and will reappear at Halloween.

And so, with many thanks to Ryan and Melissa for these amazing shots, here are some of the highlights of the day:

My brother Aaron and his kids, Lincoln, Ivan, and Adelia also participated in the Piglet Plunge.
Audrey stayed down in St. George with Lisa for the 2 days we were up in Provo.

Jeremiah needs more exposure to playing in the mud... he didn't love it.

The crowning moment for all muddy participants was the ice cold public shower that the Dirty Dash provides. Bennett and Jeremiah had to strip down to their undies while Rob tried to scrape off the caked on mud. I'm sure they've been traumatized for life. Will we do it again next year? I think it's going to be a tradition.

Baptism Day

2011-08-05T22:06:00.000-07:00

It wasn't yesterday or even last week, but more than a month ago, on July 2, 2011 when Audrey was baptized and confirmed a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. We're so proud of the beautiful girl she is and the good choices she's making. It was a lovely day and one I hope she will remember all her life. I figure it's not too late to record some memories.

Rob baptized and confirmed Audrey. Rob's dad and Jared were witnesses, my mom gave an amazing talk on the Holy Ghost,
and Rob's mom said the closing prayer for the program.

Aneya & Audrey in their matching dresses from Grandma

My mom came a week earlier, without my dad since he had to stay at home to work. Lisa's family came the night before from their new home of St. George, and Rob's parents left Yuma at 3:30 that morning to be here for Audrey. We were so glad to have so much of our family here!

On the 4th of July, Lisa's family and ours drove up a mountain, shopped in Sedona, and played in a little swimming hole known only to locals, a tip from a Sedona shop keeper. The hike to said swimming hole was steeper than we had understood, especially for little Jeremiah, but the water was refreshing on a hot day. Audrey missed the day with us after she woke up with a fever that morning. A big thank you to my mom for staying home with her. We missed you both.

Atop Schnebly Hill with a great view

Not a staged story time, but the real thing

My little bedtime bats

Bennett and Spencer

Jeremiah adores his older cousins

The evening of the 4th before going to a friends' home to watch the fireworks. Audrey is wearing a dress identical to one she had at 13 months old, just bigger. I found it at DI a few weeks earlier. Most of our group watched the fireworks and thunderstorm from our ward member's roof top (no lighting rods). I, sadly, had worn a long, straight skirt and could not climb the ladder.

That night marked 10 years since my first date with Rob. It was a great night with homemade ice cream and the love of my life by my side... we love to celebrate our relationship with fireworks every year!

Enjoying being home

2011-07-31T18:48:00.000-07:00

A last minute decision and some fast packing was the start of another road trip two weeks ago. We decided to accompany Rob to Reno and then to Lake Almanor for a familky reunion on Rob's Mom's side. His parents took the kids home with them after the weekend so I could drive to Tucson with Rob for a Habitat for Humanity service project a few days later... ah... freedom! After a whole lot of driving, some sunburns & sore muscles, and a fun getaway with my favorite person in the world, we are home again - there's no place like home! I'll post pictures soon.

This cactus resides by our front porch. It's generally a huge eye sore and a hazzard to the kids who like to ride their bikes dangerously close to it. What a pleasant surprise to find it in full bloom for the second time since we moved in almost a year ago.

Kids awaiting Sunday morning Dutch Babies. This was not staged, but true anticipation.

Sycamore Canyon

2011-07-17T17:24:00.000-07:00

We took a drive up Sycamore Canyon yesterday. We can see the beautiful red rocked mountains from Cottonwood, but have never gone there. We thought perhaps we'd get out of the heat in a "canyon" but it turned out to be about 10 degrees hotter than home. We opted not to take the 3.7 mile hike down to the river even though it looked like paradise down there.

Part of the herd standing in the road, through which we had to drive. Audrey was certain she could lasso one of them and ride it home.

S'mores, the easy way!

A great end to a day all together. We toasted strawberry mallows that turned to a gooey cream and tasted like heaven. I like being able to clean up the stickiness right away in the convenience of our own backyard!

Our day with the Allen's

2011-06-16T22:20:00.000-07:00

Meet our friends the Allen's - Amanda and I met at the Student Creative Marketing Department where we designed ads for BYU campus back in the day (aka, 10 years ago). She and Dan had just married. Rob & I had just met. I brought Rob to a beginning of school work party (2nd or 3rd date) where he and Dan became instant buddies (very similar personalities). Toward the end of the evening, as we four sat around talking; Rob was teasing me about something and Dan, in my defense said "well that's why you married her, right?". Awkward moment. Well, I guess that got him thinking, and the rest is history.

The Allen's and their soon to be five children liven in Albuquerque. They are as fun as ever which is why they were one of our first stops on our road trip. Amanda and I and five of the kids (two who had learned to ride training wheel free only the week before) took a fantastic bike ride that morning. Our families, minus Rob who had work to do with his technicians in Albuquerque, visited the amazing Sandia Tram that evening.

The Sandia Tram is the longest in the world - 2.7 miles. It climbs something like 5,ooo feet in about 20 minutes and the view is incredible as you might imagine.

Amanda is a photographer in her spare time! She took all the photos in this posting even though you may catch a glimpse of my camera bag which I hauled up there minus one memory card...oops. We hiked down the back side of the mountain a short distance to the perfect picnic spot where we enjoyed still toasty warm breakfast burritos Amanda and I had made. These were an instant hit with the kids and appeared a few other times in our road trip menu.

I'm fiddling around with these two shots for a wedding announcement of the future. Clara is just a few months younger than Jeremiah and as precious as can be. She can out-talk him by a long shot which I figure is a good basis for a marriage.

This photo sums up the tortured Bennett who was forced to walk back up the mountain after we hiked around. It wasn't pretty, but he made it.

A huge thank you to Dan and Amanda for making us feel so welcome and showing us a good time. We're so glad to have really cool friends like you!

Illinois Family Reunion

2011-06-07T23:27:00.000-07:00

We are home from our 3 week RV road trip to Illinois. What an unforgetable adventure with so many new experiences. I had never seen Nauvoo, Kansas or Oklahoma, never riden the world's longest tram up a mountain side in New Mexico and I had never even wanted to drive a 30 foot vehicle around a block, let alone 4,000+ miles. Despite a few challenges with the rig, we had a fantastic time.

This was the first time Rob's entire family (parents & all the kids & grandkids) had been together since our wedding day nearly 10 years ago. We all came together for Memorial Day in Dixon, IL, the home of Rob's Dad's Cobra which he flew in Vietnam. It has been restored and painted just like he had it 42 years ago and is on display at a Veterans Memorial Park. Here are some of the photos from the reunion there and Nauvoo, IL.

The patriotic citizens of Dixen gave us all a warm welcome. Rob's Dad was honored in the parade by having us all ride with him in a Deuce and a half military truck.

The Nauvoo temple was breathtaking. It was rebuilt in 2002 almost exactly as the early saints had built it in the 1840's. We were able to park next to the hotel where everyone else was staying, kiddie corner from this sacred building.

Joel, Cassie, Maia, Audrey & William. Cousins from 3 of the 4 families coming from Pennsylvania, Alabama, Utah & Arizona.

Bennett got to lead the children's parade in the Nauvoo evening variety show. It was so fun to watch the senior missionaries and talented mini-mission missionaries perform. I could just imagine my folks up there on the stage!

The statues of Joseph and Hyrum Smith in front of the beautiful Nauvoo Temple.

Cousins Josh and Jeremiah, 2 of the 4 J's who were all born in October. These two had never met, but had an instant bond.

A bumpy ride behind some seasoned oxen gave us new appreciation for the pioneers (who rarely rode due to weight limitations for their journey). I think I would prefer to walk also.

Saying goodbye as everyone headed their own ways from Carthage Jail. It was so moving to see be in the room where the Joseph and Hyrum were killed. What an incredible sacrifice. My testimony of his purpose on the earth was reaffirmed - I know he was a prophet of God.

Happy Birthday Audrey!

2011-06-06T22:18:00.000-07:00

My little girl is eight today... crazy. She and I went to have her ears pierced today. I had to wait till I was 11, but I couldn't see listening to her asking any longer when I was just as excited as she was to have it done. Here's my happy, smart, creative, helper - as adorable as ever. I love you Audrey. I'm so glad you're part of my life!

Paleontology & A Birthday Party

2011-05-19T21:15:00.000-07:00

I got this idea from a dinosaur book from the library. It turns out that, while dusting cookie crumbs (ancient dirt) off precious chocolate chips (bones of prehistoric animals) is sort of tedious, it's far more tasty than your average day of excavation. Just ask Jeremiah.

Bennett had his birthday with his friends last Saturday. I can't believe he's turning six already! We had five little wild boys and one of their sisters (as moral support for Audrey). This is Bennett waiting patiently to blow out his candle...so sweet.

For those of you who asked, the new camera, that I'm trying desperately to control, is a Canon 60D.

Happy Mother's Day

2011-05-08T09:08:00.000-07:00

It's hard to know what sort of sacrifice and dedication come with motherhood before you get to be a mother. I think I sort of figured that all mothers were as involved and devoted as mine - without even recognizing all the acts of love and hours of worry and years of example that she showed.

Mom was at just about every gymnastics practice, absolutely every meet (and there were a lot), she sewed Christmas jammies every year and made ultra creative birthday cakes, she rolled my hair in those soft, pink curlers on Saturday nights and cooked countless delicious meals. Mom (and Dad) flew to Isreal, New Hampshire and Portugal to be with me and experience what I was experiencing. I am just one of six to keep track of, but I'm grateful that she has always made me feel important and let me know that she believes I can do anything with my life.

Happy Mother's to all the wonderful moms I know and especially to you, Mom, I love you!

Bed time photo shoot

2011-05-04T21:12:00.000-07:00

We finally ordered (and received!) our dream camera. Perhaps I shouldn't admit that till we figure out how to make it take breath-taking photos, but I wanted to share anyway. I earned the money (Mary Kay - thank you to my awesome, supportive, beautiful customers) several months ago, but we were afraid to take the plunge without THOROUGHLY researching all the options and finding the best deal. The kids have been very patient with both Rob and me and our shutter happiness.

Toilet Training

2011-04-13T20:51:00.000-07:00

On the up side, we're no longer buying diapers. On the down, this is all on his terms... including his attire.

Business Trip

2011-04-09T15:52:00.000-07:00

We are officially home schoolers! After much deliberation, I took the kids out of the all-too-convenient school next door following their Spring Break in March. We had weighed the advantages: personalized, customized education full of life experiences with the disadvantages: loss of me-time, and found that we like our kids enough to make the sacrifice. I've been so grateful for family encouragement to make this move and supportive friends who believe in me.

Feeling the freedom to do so, we accompanied Rob on his trip to Salt Lake for most of the week last week. While he sat in a certification class, we did school work, swam, visited with family and got to see the new baby!

Kelly and Esther welcomed little Asher into their family March 19th. He was held and cuddled and loved throughout the week. We arrived Wednesday, and my parents and Lisa with her children came on Friday (driving separately). Sometimes everything just comes together nicely. Lisa had come to look for a house in Saint George where they hope to move soon. We got to celebrate Ryan's birthday with him and my Uncle Richard's birthday on Sunday as well. Saturday was dedicated to seeing Rob's family - his Grandparents, Aunt Candy and Uncle Phil and his sister, Kate and her family. We stayed Sunday night with Aaron and Krystal at their new place in Springville. It's a great place with a yard and views of the mountains. Thanks for letting us crash at the Swan Resort once again!

This was my dad's chair (when he was smaller). It was recently repaired to be passed on to Aaron and Krystal's munchkins.

Lisa and I spent Friday with the kids at Liberty Park in downtown Salt Lake, and then at the Church History Museum and Temple Square. Here's Spencer spotting Jeremiah (precious blanky in tow) on the jungle gym. It was so nice to have Lisa's older kids to help keep track of the younger one's at the very busy park.

Jeremiah and Mo on Kelly and Esther's back porch. Such an adorable place they recently moved into.

It also happened to be Conference weekend. Rob and I got to attend the Sunday afternoon session. It was so uplifting and inspirational to be there in person (not tending to children may have helped me to feel the message of the speakers as well). The 4" of snow we woke up to Sunday morning had mostly melted off by the end of the session.

We also toured the old Army base where Rob's dad was stationed in the late 80's. This is the building where he worked.

The Climbing Place

2011-03-26T12:11:00.000-07:00

Bennett had waited the better part of a year to visit this, the land of really big rocks to scale, aka the climbing place. Rob drove past this place several months ago, but since it was about an hour and a half from our home we waited till we had more than one reason to drive over the mountain to Prescott to check it out.

A beautiful view from a short climb made us all glad we had come!

Hamburger

2011-03-04T19:44:00.000-08:00

The most precious word Jeremiah says on a regular basis is 'hamburger' pronounced more like hambuggy. Tell me how a two year old can work 'hamburger' into just about any conversation... it's amazing. The best part of this video was watching it 10 times consecutively with Jeremiah because each time we replayed it he would respond to Rob's voice with the exact same words and intonation as if they were having the conversation for the first time. He would then demand "again!".

Valentine's exchange is coming

2011-02-11T18:37:00.000-08:00

I remember staying up late the night before Valentine's Day most years growing up... pain- stakingly cutting and gluing what seemed like innumerable hearts and doilies with my devoted mother. I'm sure there were cheesy little rectangular cards that could be purchased back then too. Those lack individuality and creativity though. So, in preparation for Monday's big party, we filled this afternoon with coloring and cutting and hot gluing even. They turned out simple, but cute and at least the chocolates with be appreciated.

Bennett's were similar with chocolates that had cute conversation heart sayings on them... UR Cute, Be Mine, Hottie! and other really appropriate things for kindergarteners to say to each other.

Hiking Bell Rock

2011-02-09T08:48:00.000-08:00

We returned to Bell Rock on Saturday. We still couldn't get up the steep sumit with the kids, but we got further than two years ago when Jeremiah (3 months old) was strapped on the front of me. He was less opinionated then. The kids did great scrambling up the rocks - some other hikers confessed they would not have gone as far if they hadn't seen a 2 year old doing it! It's great to live so close to beautiful Sedona - it really takes your breath away! I didn't take the camera with us, but these are from my phone.

Rob & Bennett making a rock tower.

Go Team Go!

2011-02-04T18:41:00.000-08:00

Audrey completed a week of Cheer Camp tonight. It was so fun to watch her perform with 100 other girls during the high school basketball half-time. They did two different dances and a cheer. Go Audrey!

Remembering December

2011-01-11T20:36:00.000-08:00

I've added my new favorite family photo to my blog heading. ahh, Jeremiah... what can I say- he wanted the bagel.

I tried on several occasions this year to captured the true personalities and undeniable cuteness of my children, all at once, in a family photo. Unfortunately, they are against me in this quest. I've included a few of these less than perfect photos in my December summary posting.
It was a great month, most of which was spent traveling to Washington for a family reunion on my side. I'll post those photos next :)

Ward Christmas party, complete with a fantastic Santa.

Our good friends, the Mitchems came up from Phoenix to ride the "Polar Express" all the way from Williams, AZ to the North Pole! The kids had a great slumber party that night. Sadly, the slumbering ended around 4am with a domino effect of waking after Bennett got up to use the bathroom.

Seeing Jerome the next day.

Santa came aboard at the 'North Pole' to hand each child a huge and very loud jingle bell. We have three in our home now. I'm proud to say I can still hear them ring (I'm a believer!).

The hundred-year-old train was beautiful inside with lights and reversable seats and springy bench cushions.

At the temple lights in Mesa after doing a session with Rob's parents.

I can't believe the season is gone already. I love Christmas time!

An Update!

2011-01-07T12:54:00.000-08:00

It has been brought to my attention that it's no longer fall and I should update my blog. Nevertheless, here are a couple photos from a family reunion with Rob's family at Thanksgiving. We all got together for Joel's baptism which was performed at Rob's parents' beautiful home in Yuma. Joel's family lives in Washington near my parents but they came down for this special occation. Rob's sister, Kate and her family also came down from Provo. It was fun to have everyone together and let cousins get to know each other again. Below are Emily (Kate's) , Audrey, Tamika (Brent's), and Bennett.

Bennett with cousins Brighton and Bret (Kate's)

Jeremiah with cousins Joel and Maia (Brent's) playing in our backyard

Brent's four kids

Bennett and Grandma Sandy

Fall Happiness

2010-10-27T15:53:00.000-07:00

I love fall, especially here in Cottonwood. This is the first fall-feeling October we've had in four years. Bring on the chilly mornings!

You know how teachers always wanted you to show your work - not just the finished product? Well here's the end result of picking out, cutting, gutting and carving - with the evidence of all our hard work to get these beautiful jack-o-lanterns.

Bennett's photo of his scary pumpkin.

Sometimes it's fun to go to the Grand Opening of a store, or even the re-grand opening of a Walgreen's over in the next town - especially when they've got hot dogs and cotton candy, a clown that makes balloon animals and face painting. Hey, it's something to do. Audrey says it's the best party we've ever been to.

We need an apple orchard for these kids. I'm buying 8-10 pounds of apples a week these days. I know, there are worse things they could beg for.

Let's get campy!

2010-10-21T21:19:00.001-07:00

We camped this last weekend on Mingus mountain. It's the top of the mountain (7000 ft)between us and Prescott, just past my favorite Jerome. Our site was about 50 yards from this beautiful lookout. Aparently I didn't get in any of the pictures - best since I got an hour or two of sleep. Despite a restless night, we had a fantastic (albeit short) hike with the kids the next day. It was great to spend the day all together as a family.

Happy Birthday Jeremiah!

2010-10-10T21:32:00.000-07:00

Jeremiah turned two on Friday. I think I've only posted 5 times since his last birthday... just trying to leave some room for improvement. My wonderful Mom has been here for two weeks. I know my Dad is grateful to have her back but I will miss her company - and help. She was able to celebrate the start of a new year for Jeremiah with presents, cupcakes and a trip to Flagstaff where we ate at the tacky but tasty Bigfoot BBQ joint in old town Flag. I hope you can see the satisfaction on Jeremiah's face.

A new swing for Jeremiah from G&G Swan.

Rob's parents went in on this very fun jumpoline which has mostly been used for anything but jumping - a fort, hampster wheel, tilt-a-whirl, you name it. Rob does exceed the weight limit but promised not to jump.

Those are basketball cupcakes to add to our sports-themed party. I also just made a reusable party decor set complete with chair cover and fabric streamers made of lots of little circles sewn together. Hard to explain and I didn't get any shots of the streamers, but trust me, they're cute.

Can't imagine my life without this boy. He's affectionate, smart and has a darling sense of humor that accompanies his boisterous laugh. He's crazy about his big sister and watches every move his big brother makes, immitating absolutely everything. So glad you're part of our family Jeremiah!

Jeremiah was delighted with our three day storm of thunder & lightning. Grandma taught him to say "KABOOM!" each time the thunder rumbled.

A New Adventure

2010-08-26T20:47:00.001-07:00

A month ago, as I vacationed in Washington with the kids and Rob was in Montana to train a new guy, we came to an abrupt and drastic decision to take a position in northern Arizona with APX. Rob had been driving up here 2 or 3 times a week to cover new accounts and between service calls here & in the Phoenix area plus managing his technicians, there just weren't enough hours to get it all done. Since we had never intended to live in Phoenix, but had been there more than 3 years (4 sunshiny summers) we felt this was our ticket to a new place! APX hired someone else in Phoenix and we came to Cottonwood, population 11,243. It all happened very quickly since they wanted him up here immediately and the kids were to start school the week after our return from Washington - the photos of which I will post soon! We moved Saturday, August 14 and went back for another load of odds and ends the next day in our van. Audrey & Bennett started school (a week late) that Monday.

Audrey is in 2nd and Bennett, yes, in Kindergarten! He ate breakfast with his backpack his 1st day of school... so exciting! Audrey always adjusts with ease to a new school year. She’s made new friends and does her homework with very little prodding this year. So far, so good - aside from Bennett's meltdown this morning regarding how very long his 2.5 hours of school are and how dumb it is to earn reward points to get to be the teacher's "helper" - oh, and how he hates his socks, every morning. I know, I know, it’s a lot for him to take in all at once.

The kids found lots of fun places to hide and play during the move.

Bennett and Jeremiah are sharing a room in our new, not so big home... I think it's bringing them closer!

The backyard, complete with playhouse and soon-to-be rebuilt swingset.

Cottonwood is gorgeous. It’s high desert with lots of hills and puffy white clouds. Still warm, but not like Phoenix. We’re 20 minutes from the Red Rocks of Sedona and 20 minutes, the other way from my new favorite town, Jerome. You’ve never seen anything like it – a town built into the side of a mountain, no kidding. Rob took us up there for the 1st time on Monday. Just 10 minutes beyond Jerome is the peak of the mountain (7021 feet) where we had a picnic dinner and played Frisbee and catch. I was in heaven!

My heart lept when I saw our little mailbox. Isn't it quaint? I'm excited to be living in a small town. If you turn to the right while standing here, you see the elementary school, a quick 2 minute walk.

Great room... and my model child holding The Friend.

My man is so strong. Yeah, that's a real push up.

More Wedding favorites

2010-06-07T21:00:00.000-07:00

The beautiful bride, Melissa. Ryan & Melissa's reception was held at a picturesque barn in Mapleton, UT.

All of us from out of town got to come together to stay in a 3-story townhouse in Provo. Lots of little boys between Sydni's 2, my 2, Aaron & Krystal's 2 when they visited from their Provo apt, and Lisa's 3 (not so little). Pictured are Jeremiah, back left; Luke, Sydni's youngest, front left; Lincoln, Aaron's oldest, front right; Zac, Sydni's oldest, back right.

Syd, Jake & Luke on the front lawn of the condo.

Ryan & Melissa's Tuesday morning ceremony at the Mt. Timpanogos Temple.

Audrey & Aneya, Lisa' s youngest

Aunt Esther & Audrey

Lovely lighting before the barn reception that night. I adore these pics of my boys.

The kids had a blast at this reception with the upstairs balcony in the barn and the pasture behind it. They really would have been content to run around the countryside and fish with a net in the pond, fancy reception clothes and all.

We did have a little time with Rob's family while in Provo. This is at his sister, Kate's. That's Kate's adorable daughter, Emily between Audrey and Bennett. They were working on a cotton candy street-side business, but ended up eating most of the would-be product.

Kelly squeezed in a graduation from BYU's Construction Management dept the day before getting married. He started at the U of U a couple weeks ago for a Masters in Architecture... Go Kelly! We're so proud of you!

Here we are at Kelly and Esther's ceremony, Saturday morning at the Oquirrh Mountain Temple. Our final day of the trip after a full week.

Audrey & Spencer, Lisa's 3rd

Weddings

2010-05-11T22:52:00.000-07:00

The week went by too quickly- creating memories, trying to stick to the schedule, wear the right clothes, and yes, welcome our newest family members, Melissa and Esther!

Ryan and Melissa were sealed in the Mount Timpanogos Temple April 20th. Haven't even downloaded my photos yet, but it's on my to do list. They looked amazing and so right for each other. Who would have dreamed that day would come so soon after seeing Ryan off in San Diego at Christmas. So many prayers were answered by his decision to return to dry land. We had a fantastic thai dinner the night before (below). We sat with Lisa & Jared and Kelly & Esther so we could all get to know her better, I like her so much already! I'll post pics from their wedding (April 24th) in the next week... or so.

We attempted to squeeze in some fun activities for the kids that didn't involve wearing "Sunday clothes". I'd never been to the Bean Museum on BYU campus even though I walked by it on a daily basis while at school to get to work. It was super cool! You can see that even Jeremiah was intrigued with the animals (all non-hunted donations)!

Hiking in Rock Canyon, a must while Provo. I remembered neither tennis shoes or a baby carrier for the trip, so we didn't get very far, but enjoyed the beautiful Utah scenery.

The big kid cousins who hiked up to the caves: Jordan, Audrey, Bennett, Spencer & Zac in the front was an excellent little hiker!

Ryan and Melissa's reception at a barn south of Provo. Love this picture of my Mom and Aunt Debby.

Every good party needs an oversized green dinosaur pinata. This is my cousin Bryan and his wife Becca.

Melissa was the one to visiously take down the beast.

2010-03-30T13:46:00.000-07:00

We'd have to be much better at pacing ourselves if we were to ever get one of those 3 or 4 day park-hopper passes. Two days in the parks just about did us in - although so many memories were made and fun times were had in the meantime.

We caught the spectacular fireworks show at the end of our first day - spent mainly at California Adventure, with the last few hours in Disneyland for the street dance parade, dinner, the Finding Nemo sub ride and probably the best fireworks I've ever seen!

Toon Town soaked up much of the afternoon on day 2. So many fun places for the kids to climb and make believe! Bennett had his first cotton candy (or so he says) in the fine evening weather and it was less crowded than other destinations... why would we leave?

Teacups was one of the rides the kids were fortunate enough to ride twice with Disney's great baby swap card.

I tried to tell them about the REAL Matterhorn, but they're pretty sure this one's better.

Made me very concerned for 10 & 12 years down the road to see these two behind the wheel.

We waited "patiently" in line for an hour for a precious photo with Audrey's favorite princesses. Isn't Ariel perfect?

Meanwhile, Rob took Bennett for some boy time at the Jedi Training Camp. He got to fight Darth Vader himself and came away with Jedi certification!

Taking a break in the shade while Rob held our place in line for "It's a Small World". This had to be Jeremiah's favorite as we floated through room after room of happy singing characters - so much to look at!

More waiting... this pic is so similar to one we took of these two 3 years ago when we came... they're a little bigger now.

2010-03-22T20:39:00.000-07:00

Bennett is catching onto the perks that come with big-brotherhood, such as being worshiped and teaching his little shadow all the life lessons he's already experienced. Bennett thanked Heavenly Father tonight for his brother and asked that he would be able to take good care of him. Jeremiah is even permitted in Bennett's room now, whereas before no drooling babies were allowed.

Everlasting spring

2010-03-21T16:03:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was the official start of spring! I can hardly believe it because it's felt like spring for months now. I am most definitely not bragging - we have our not-so-pleasant weather to look forward to all too soon. I do feel grateful for the beautiful days of "winter" here though. Our garden thinks it feels pretty nice out right now too. Here's the garden I mentioned planting with Lisa. The first pic is my wishing well that sat full of nothing but dirt for so long - I always wished it full of flowers!

Yeah, that's an ice cream about the drip on Bennett's head. He was pretending to be Lady Liberty.

We've got carrots, gn onions, cucumbers, broccoli, peas, lettuce & tomatoes!

We spend a great deal of our evenings lately at tee-ball practices and games for Audrey and Bennett and I'm glad we get to enjoy our time outdoors. We realized after our commitment to be part of the Blue Jay team that we had not been too diligent in playing catch with our kids - or batting, or anything about the game of baseball. Here's a Sunday afternoon batting lesson with dad in the backyard.

Rob & I took a trip to San Diego for our 8th wedding anniversary in December. Most of the photos below are in Balboa Park - really really beautiful! A huge thank you to Rob's parents for keeping the kids so we could get away for a couple days! Here's a squirrel in the park - a big, fat, completely fearless monster of a squirrel.

We stopped on our way to CA to see the old lighthouse in the desert where we hiked around and found crazy sculptures carved out of the rocks.

Bringing you up to speed

2010-03-14T11:17:00.001-07:00

It's only natural to cherish the sweet moments more when coming through one of life's bitter parts. My children have become more precious to me in the loss of our unborn baby. Their existence in our family is nothing short of a miracle! I'm so grateful for each of them with their amazing spirits and emerging personalities... and maybe even for their orneriness.

It's been months since my miscarriage but I'm still so thankful for the support of family and friends. Lisa (and let's not forget our mom and Lisa's husband, Jared who ran the show with Lisa's four kids in her absence) flew to Phoenix for moral support and to help us get life back to normal. We went for walks and bike rides. We finally put some vegetables in my long empty raised garden bed (pics coming soon). We stayed up late laughing and crying and reminiscing about old times. Thank you Lisa!

Thanksgiving family reunion!

2009-12-07T16:11:00.001-08:00

This is our baby floating down from heaven... what an angel! (I told Rob I never want to see Jeremiah flying this high again, even if he is loving it)

Spent this last weekend over in Long Beach (CA) with Ryan after dropping the kids with Rob's parents in Yuma. We had such a fun time and finally got to see Ryan's boat, the Enchantress. Ryan and sea mate, Shawn took us out past the breakwater to the real ocean to sail for a few hours. It was great to see them in action since they'll be leaving for their 10 month trip to Audtralia this week with one other friend. I felt pretty good about not hurling over the edge in my delicate condition - that's not to say that I didn't feel like it.

Here's Ryan while he was here for Thanksgiving. The protective eye wear was for target shooting - more pics of that to follow. I don't get to see Ryan that often, but I'm always inspired when I do. He's constantly following through with one dream or another and living life to the fullest. My prayers will be with him on this journey.

Ryan with his girlfriend, Melissa who was brave enough to spend her Thanksgiving here with all of us. She was delightful and got us all (Mom and Dad included) to stand in front of a leave blower while Ryan took pictures of our contorted faces. Those pics will not follow.

Jeremiah sharing one of his favorite hang out places with his cousin, Ivan (Aaron and Krystal's 2nd).

All the grandkids in attendance (we missed you Syd!): back row Spencer, Aneya, and Audrey, seated are Jordan, Jeremiah and Carter, on laps are Ivan and Bennett and then there's lincoln hanging on the end.

We hiked up in South Mountain park to a natural rock slide (no water like "Slide Rock). Lots of rocks and skinned knees along the way, but no injuries on the actually slide surprisingly.

Lisa and her kids in a pile at the bottom of the slide. I think they decided to go train style.

My Dad and Jeremiah, who was the only one not to slide but preferred to roll around in the dirt while he waited.

The promised shooting pics. This was mostly a boys outing, but Melissa stuck by her man and proved to be a good shot.

Love this one of everyone looking so tough. Nice minivans.

One holiday to the next

2009-12-07T14:44:00.000-08:00

Here's our anxious trick or treaters. Audrey's friend Nicole joined us for our very short and sweet trip around the block. We had already collected quite a stash at the ward trunk or treat the night before. Jeremiah was a ferocious lion, Audrey, Sleeping Beauty and Bennett, Peter Pan... it's not my fault he still fits in the costume he wore last year, and he makes such a cute Peter!

Jeremiah understood fully about the chocolate if not about taking wrappers off

Audrey and Bennett at the chili cookoff part of our ward "fall festival". Just thought their expressions were priceless. No, neither of them would touch the chili and got away with eating only candy and cookies the whole night.

Giddy with their loot from the neighborhood

picture time, picture time, lots of fun with picture time...

2009-10-11T20:22:00.000-07:00

Okay, here are the rest from our photo shoot a couple weeks ago. It's kind of a lot of pictures, so if you get tired of looking at my kids half way through and need to click on someone elses blog to look at that for a while, I understand. If you can endure the whole thing (and I've really narrowed it down), please vote for your favorites of the kids - trying to decide which to print for the wall).

Happy Birthday to my baby

2009-10-07T22:50:00.001-07:00

What a wonderful year with this sweet boy! He's happy, bright and oh so snuggly; I get a little teary thinking of the joy he has brought into our home (as everyone pulls together to meet his every whim). Yes, this is my second posting about Jeremiah in the last couple weeks, but I wanted to share him a little more on his birthday since so many family and friends are too far away to celebrate with us. These photos and those to follow of the rest of us were taken by a friend of mine, Bedie Price. This first one is my favorite.

"you go that way and take a right at the stop sign, it'll be on your left..." Did I mention the pointing skills?

Jeremiah has a great laugh to go with his sense of humor.

The year of Jeremiah comes to a close

2009-09-25T20:55:00.000-07:00

I don't want to jump the gun, but Jeremiah's 1st birthday is just around the corner and since it's been months, literally months - to the point that no one is even checking my blog anymore - I thought I should share some recent pics of my precious little guy.

Pointing happens to be one of Jeremiah's greatest skills. He is very observant (like his daddy) and doesn't know about it being impolite and all.

He's also very good at jumping. It all started in the womb - I thought the kicking would never stop, and it hasn't. Jeremiah's still not showing signs of walking any time soon. He's cruising, but content to crawl, and I'm good with that as well.

Here's his hair before I cut it all off in a whim last week.

Jeremiah snuggling with Rob's Mom.

As a side note, Rob took Audrey and Bennett to Yuma today to see his folks and do some work on their alarm system. It's been a quiet day here with just Jeremiah. We had a great time playing and talking and running errands though. Not to mention all I got done during nap time! We are putting in our backyard finally and sprucing up the front. I'll be sure to post some pics of that soon.

New hair for me too! It's an A-line cut and I'm loving having it off my neck!

FHE a couple weeks ago. We had such a blast at the rollar rink with the kids. Yes, same place as Audrey's B-day party. This was the only shot that turned out - hey, it's not easy to skate while pushing a stroller AND snapping a photo... ahh, the multi-taskings of a mother.

Here is proof that having children is worth it. Slave labor anyone?

Audrey is getting so grown up. Sometimes she makes her own lunch in the midst of our morning choas.

Perhaps you noticed her from teeth in that last one - or lack thereof. Here was Rob's attempt to yank them out. I believe it was the next day her teacher actually succeeded in removing those forever loose front teeth.

3 hours of fun in the hot hot sun

2009-06-28T21:12:00.000-07:00

This is the third swim meet in which we've had the privilege of participating. I should add that it was also the last since we head off for our road trip to Washington next week. One lady who was attending with her sister-in-law's four small children described it as "the worst thing she'd ever had to endure"... rough life.

Here's Audrey and her friend Brinley as they prepare to swim the butterfly. I admit that I had my doubts that a six year old could be taught to do anything similar to the butterfly stroke, but Audrey has amazed us with her learning curve.

I caught these two looking longingly at the kiddie pool that was fenced off for the meet.

The following photos are evidence that Audrey and Bennett filled every moment with either a snack break or a climbing adventure or a rest in the stroller with Jeremiah. Fortunately, the overcast, muggy afternoon lent itself to nicely to great lighting for photos.

Oh, and some swimming! Audrey led her team medley relay with her killer backstroke. They took 2nd of 6 teams.

Audrey's week-long 6th birthday

2009-06-13T15:26:00.000-07:00

With Audrey's friend party scheduled for this weekend, we just did a family lunch at Peter Piper Pizza on the big day. It was very low key, unlike the skating party this morning (I will post pics of that funess later... I mean soon!). This is Audrey learning to hold her birthday quarters in her eye sockets, another important lesson by Dad.

My parents sent a Fashion Designer toy. I think we all had one of these as a child - where you can switch up the skirt, top, shoes and hair of the model, then slide a crayon of the paper and make a rubbing... so fun! Thank you Grandma and Grandpa!

My parents also sent this great bead kit - Audrey is a natural at designing beautiful necklaces!

Jeremiah also enjoyed himself at Audrey's party - he loves those pizza crusts. I can't believe he's already 8 months. He's not crawling yet and we're really okay with that.

Bennett before we gave him any pizza.

Audrey showing off the Tinkerbell watch we gave her.

We came home for cake and ice cream and the rest of the presents which was way easier than hauling it all with us.

Audrey has been so great to have at home for the last few weeks. She seems so much more grown up than when we sent her off to Kindergarten last fall. She's happy and usually finds something to read or a journal entry to write when she has some time to herself. She's also been extreemly helpful to me as Jeremiah's biggest fan! She's learning to change diapers (at her request) and is great at entertaining him. Audrey's on the YMCA swim team which practices every day and competes about once a week. So far it's been a great experience for her (more pics of that to come too!). Happy Birthday Audrey!!!

All we do is play at the zoo

2009-06-13T14:40:00.000-07:00

Some may think we spend each and every day at the zoo. This is not the case, but the zoo is where we often remember to bring our camera. We caught about an hour of this zoo member appreciation night a couple weeks ago. There was a lot of waiting in lines and mud puddle jumping from all the water slide run off, but we had a great time - the kids had the chance to get dirty, which Audrey tells me is "there job" and Rob & I were happy to enjoy some free entertainment! Below are Audrey, her friend Emma and Bennett, waiting patiently to climb the steep steps up to one of the water slides.

Waiting again, after a couple runs. Imagine that, shivering in Phoenix.

Playing on the splash park near the live band pavillion... happy times.

First Haircut

2009-05-18T12:59:00.000-07:00

Jeremiah had his first haircut on Friday. It's always kind of a sad event because of the whole growing up thing - but trust me, it needed to be done. He's such a fun baby; babbling like crazy, sucking on everything and smiling at anyone who glances his way.

We took these on the front lawn this morning but had to cut our photo session short when the ants started marching... and biting. Love livin in the desert!

Play Date

2009-05-13T17:20:00.000-07:00

Princess Audrey and her friend Princess Sabrina had fun ruling the kingdom today. They graduate from Kindergarten this Friday. Where does the time go?

A visit from Grandma Swan

2009-05-03T19:57:00.000-07:00

My wonderful mom was here for nearly two weeks and I can only assume we were too busy playing (which includes cleaning and taking care of kids) to take any pictures. A huge thank you to both her and my Dad for making the sacrifice for her to come visit. It was especially fun to take her with us to Yuma to celebrate a beautiful Easter with Rob's folks!

Another highlight from my mom's visit was when Rob and I left the not-so-good sailors with her and took the boat out again for a much more relaxing, less terrifying sailing expedition. It was important for us to "get back on the horse" shortly after our difficult first experience.
We had a great time at the zoo on one of her days here. We snatched Audrey from school for a family field trip. It was perfect weather once again (not trying to come across as bragging). Where is my mom in our group photo you ask? Um, taking the picture.

This is the Little People Discover Farm section of the zoo. It caters mostly to, well, the little people.

Now quack like a duck you guys!

Saaailin'.... takes me away...

2009-04-07T12:25:00.001-07:00

Rob has had a dream for as long as I've known him to be a sailor. Actually, to sail around the world - but we're not going to address that just yet. I'm sure my brother Ryan influenced this realization of step one of his dream when we bought a boat a couple months ago. Ryan and his buddies bought an "ocean-going" boat not too long ago in which they plan to sail to Australia.

We had to start small... and cheap. Here are the first photos of the Overtime (the means by which we were able to buy our little vessel) She's a Cortez 16' and worth every bit of her $300.

There's been a lot of learning as Rob cleaned out and sorted through all sorts of odds and ends. We've kept most of it in case we figure out what it's for on down the road. Notice the dark yellow square of original color paint.

Needless to say, the kitties have been very curious. Lots of great smells from sitting in a field for the last 3 years.

Last Thursday we laid plans for a maiden voyage and put the crew to work scrubbing the deck and waxing the paint. We were concerned about fancy boat owners who might poke fun at our fixer-upper.

Remember that dark yellow square?

That night, after the kids were in bed, we hoisted the sails - still in our driveway - just to see how much Rob could remember from his sailing days as a youth. The rigging still seemed pretty uneven and mixed up, but we got the general idea.

We were unable to document our camping trip in the wind storm that nearly swept away our three little children in the tent as we set up camp just before dark Friday evening. Let it be said that there's a good reason we're not co-sleepers with our darlings. We were all up with the sun, packed up and on our way to the other side of the lake where the boat shop is before 8. Rob and the boat repair guys spent several hours fixing the rigging and replacing rusty parts before we launched around noon. Here I am with the kids after successfully getting underway without sinking (my biggest fear being that boat would not be water-tight) and just before all "you know what" broke loose.

With hardly any wind to get us out of the harbor, we were hoping to be able to fill the sails just a little. Within a matter of 15 minutes though, the winds started to pick up. Jeremiah was not loving his lifejacket or the sun, so I sat in the very little cabin with him crying - Audrey and Bennett climbing in and out - in and out. Then suddenly came the gusts of wind and some quick learning of the term "prepare to come about" or just "coming about!!!" as we jumped from side to side to balance the boat. In the end we learned that both of us were needed to control the boat in high winds and perhaps a few more hands to help the children - or maybe no children would be best till we get a bit better in our sailing skills. At one point we leaned far enough for water to spill in from the sides. It was then that we moved quickly to pull in the sails and then hoist just the jib to bring us back to shore. Not a day that any of us will soon forget!

It's a zoo around here!

2009-02-08T19:36:00.000-08:00

Here's our outting to the Phoenix Zoo a couple weeks ago. It was absolutely beautiful out - a pleasant 65 and hardly any people to maneuver around. This has to be in my top 3 favorite pics of Jeremiah - not too shabby for a camera phone.

Yes, his eyes really have lightened to this beautiful blue! He's getting so grown up already - Happy 4 months today Jeremiah!

We must be living in the desert to have such a charming slide at the zoo. The kids came shooting out of it like a cannon.

We stopped to watch the lions for quite a while. They were just napping at first but then she wandered over and nuzzled her boyfriend till he got up and gave her a bath. He seemed pretty grumpy at first, but then sweet.

This momma kangaroo was by the wallaby walk-through exhibit... it was fun to see them hop around so close to us!

And finally... Merry Christmas!

2009-01-18T15:31:00.000-08:00

Our Christmas, although celebrated a few weeks back like yours, is finally being posted. I love this one of our Princess Audrey with her new My Little Pony and squinty morning eyes. Thanks for the beautiful Sleeping Beauty dress Mom - she loves it!

Bennett donning his new Batman jammies The Santa hat shows that he was the present passer-outer (at least till he got too anxious to find his own presents and someone else was assigned).

Yes, we know Jeremiah was a bullfrog, but he's very versatile - he can also be a reindeer. Thanks Aunt Debby!

Remember Christmas time?

2009-01-11T15:19:00.000-08:00

The Kindergarten classes performed 5 precious songs for the their "Christmas Around the World" concert. Audrey loves school and we're so grateful for her teacher, Ms. Peoples. A good teacher makes all the difference.

I think this is when they sang the Dradle song. It was by far their favorite and sung with a lot of enthusiasm.

My cronology is a little off, but the weekend before Christmas we met Rob's folks over at the Mesa temple to see the lights after they did a session. This was before Audrey wandered off (to see the baby Jesus again) causing us to split in 4 directions to track her down for a scary 10 minutes. Surprisingly, we still let her go when Mom Bailey asked to take her home to Yuma for a few days. She loves to be spoiled by her grandparents and to swim in their pool. The new wardrobe was also fun for her since they snatched her up with no warning and only the clothes on her back.

I feel like the hat needs some explanation. Rob crocheted it a couple years ago. He and Bennett are the only ones who have been excited about wearing it since then. We kind of think he looks like mush mouth from Fat Albert. This is 3 generations of Robert Bennett Baileys pic.

2009-01-11T15:09:00.000-08:00

One more of our hike on Bell Rock. Audrey and Bennett were like little mountain goats!

Here's my exhuberant children.

We wandered around Sedona for most of the afternoon. It reminded me a lot of Jackson Hole. It was fun to see all the after Christmas sales as we window shopped.

Audrey rubbing noses with one of the lovely pieces of art on the street.

Hiking at Red Rocks

2008-12-29T20:34:00.000-08:00

We thought the people up ahead looked like little ants marching. We were all headed up Bell Rock near Sedona and most everybody got farther than us with out little hikers.

This is us, including little Jeremiah on his first hike (in the daylight anyway) on our way back down. We had just about perfect weather to enjoy the beautiful scenery... about 60 and sunny!

Audrey and Bennett had a hard time waiting for me as I was being extra cautious not to trip/slip with Jeremiah strapped to my belly. We'd love to do it again sometime soon with just the two of them to see how far we can get.

Guess we wore them out. Here they are a few minutes into our 2 hour drive home.

Thanksgiving family reunion!

2008-12-16T20:19:00.001-08:00

Here's an impossible shot. With Lisa, Sydni, Krystal and me all yelling to our respective children in an attempt to have them smile at the right moment. This photo is going to be a part of our family history you know. What if my child is the one throwing a tantrum or sticking his tongue out. So they're not all smiling. At least no one got hurt.

This is our first family photo with all six children, they're spouses (for those with spouses) and all nine grandchildren... plus two on the way! Yes, both Krystal and Sydni are expecting!!!

Blessing Day

2008-11-02T18:21:00.000-08:00

Little Jeremiah was blessed last Sunday, the 26th. Rob did a beautiful job and we enjoyed the day with both our parents here to celebrate his birth.

Unfortunately, we didn't get any pictures of the whole group. Here we are with Rob's folks. We're so glad they could be here for Jeremiah's special day and again for a long weekend this week! Rob's cousin, Lauralee was able to come visit from Chandler for a scrumptious lunch before church. We've been very blessed to have our wonderful family help us out during this first month with Jeremiah. Thank you to all who have come and to those who have sacrificed so they could be here! My parents were here till Tuesday when Dad returned home to work and Mom flew on to Utah to be with Ryan for shoulder surgery... what a woman!

Born for the stage!

2008-11-02T18:10:00.000-08:00

Audrey starred in her Kindergarten's 5 minute rendition of Goldylocks and the Three Bears this last week. Her part as Goldylocks consisted of doing what the narrator (little girl at far right side) said... You know, tasting the porridge, trying out the chairs and finding the bed that was "just right" for sleeping until the bear family came home from their walk. She did a great job but got a bit of stage fright at the last moment and could only manage small movements with a huge grin across her face! She was precious!

A few more pics

2008-10-24T10:54:00.000-07:00

Here's my mom (aka life saver) out on the porch swing with the babe during our Halloween photo shoot.

I meant to post this one with Jeremiah's birth pics... he's less than a day old here. I love how happy he looks.

We all went to church this last week. We only stayed for Sacrament meeting, but hey, we were there! Here's Jeremiah as we were heading out the door.

Here he is snuggled up on the couch. Grandma sure likes to make him all cozy.

This was our first outing, just the two of us. We got all dolled up to go see the pediatrician for his 1 week check up.

One loved baby

2008-10-21T11:37:00.000-07:00

Audrey and Bennett love their baby brother. They are sweet as can be with him. This comes as a great relief since I feared some retaliation and jealousy from Bennett. He's not been a complete angel, but what can we expect? It was several days before Bennett asked to hold Jeremiah. I hadn't even thought to offer to let him hold his new brother! He whispered "I love you Jeremiah".

We've survived the 1st two weeks!

2008-10-21T10:59:00.000-07:00

Here's Jeremiah's first bath at home. I think he feels okay about bathing in public and that he won't hold this posting against me. He's had two baths now (just one a week is what the doctor recommends) and has not enjoyed either one. He hadn't begun screaming in the photo below... but you can see it coming, can't you.

Everyone's feeling a little sleepy these days. I really can't complain because I have a wonderful support system. My mom's been here for the last week. She arrived the day after Lisa returned home. She's the official night nurse and consistantly gets me a good 2-3 hours of sleep to start off the night. Thank you Mom! Rob has been able to be home a lot as well and helps with so much of the work. Yet, there are some parts that only I am equipped to handle. In the end, we're all in need of a nap.

Jeremiah seems to be the only one getting all the rest he desires. We love to watch his dreaming smiles flash across his face. He's already starting to smile with his eyes open too... so sweet.

Jeremiah

2008-10-09T19:33:00.000-07:00

Here's Stacey looking more beautiful than any women should look going into the hospital. Lucky for her she thought she was just going in for a stress test and she wasn't actually in labor yet.

The stress test went fine but since she was already at a 5 they decided to jump start the party by breaking her water.
5 Hours later Jeremiah Thomas came into the world at a beautifully healthy 8lbs 3oz, 2o inches long. He was born just after midnight on the 8th because Stacey and Rob thought the 8th was a better birthday than the 7th.
Here's Rob, doesn't he look like a proud papa!
Mother and baby are both doing great!
Here's the first family gathering. Audrey is quite the proud big sister and Uncle Ryan drove in from Costa Rice just in time to join the celebration.

He's a very sleepy baby but Stacey got this great picture of those beautiful blue eyes
Spencer and I arrived that night. I have the hard job of holding the baby!
Here's a big yawn as he tries to avoiding being awake again!
More pictures and Stacey's version of the story coming soon! Lots of Love Lisa

You guessed it!

2008-09-23T13:31:00.000-07:00

Congrats everybody... you're all very smart. Think I'll do away with the other two letters before the great unveiling. My mom was actually the first to guess right on Sunday... without any extra hints for those who think I might favor her. We'll definitely let each and everyone of you know shortly after the big event. Thanks for playing our game - I love you all!!!

Here's the give-away

2008-09-22T16:34:00.001-07:00

I realize that this letter makes the possibilities somewhat slim. It's fun to read all of your guesses and I admit that there are a few we hadn't thought of but really like. Krystal, your comment about the saw and sandpaper made me laugh. Anything could happen I suppose.

Next Clue

2008-09-21T16:31:00.000-07:00

Thanks for your patience everyone... you're all being good sports!

Clue for the name game

2008-09-19T21:20:00.001-07:00

Here's the next letter on the wall... the way it's going to stay. That is, the letters are in the correct order. Thanks for your guesses - no, we don't have a winner. We've decided that the winner will get the first phone call when the little guy comes out. Does anyone have a problem with a 3am phone call?

The name game

2008-09-18T19:38:00.000-07:00

We'd like to announce that we've finally made a committment to a name for our soon-to-be-born son. We have actually purchased these wooden letters and drilled holes in the nursery walls to hang them. I suppose we could still go back, but we feel like this is it. This posting's for you Em, although that's not what we're naming him. These are just two of the letters in the name we want you to guess. I'll give you another letter in a day or two. Oh, just humor me and make some guesses!

1 month to go...

2008-09-07T19:27:00.000-07:00

We're in the final preparation weeks before our unnamed baby arrives... he's due exactly one month from today! This week we purchased a "birthing ball" (really just an exercise ball) because that seemed to provide a little comfort during Bennett's birth. I also dove into a paint-the-nursery project a few days ago. It's going to be two shades of Apple Green - just the lightest shade is done so far. Here's me carefully teetering on the ladder while the kids "help".

Our little olympians

2008-08-24T20:18:00.000-07:00

Apparently, our Olympic fever was catching. While we stayed up way too late watching amazing athletes, our kiddos dreamt of winning the gold! We found them both in this position during our nightly check on them on one of these late evenings.

A visit from Andy-Sue

2008-08-24T19:57:00.000-07:00

My dear friend Andrea and three of her four beautiful children spent the afternoon with us two weeks ago. They were in town to visit Andrea's in-laws in Mesa but managed to squeeze us in. Matthew is so grown up since we saw him last summer - a real cutie! The girls (Hannah and Leah) had a great time in Audrey's makeup while Andrea and I made dinner. Then we were off to swim at the YMCA and frozen yogurt at my most favorite new discovery: iSwirl. We made quite a scene getting self-served fro-yo for us and five little kids and we all had a great time. It was so fun to see them! Unfortunately, Andrea and I forgot to take any pics with us in them. You can check out Andrea's blog at http://fowlesflock.blogspot.com/

They grow up so fast!

2008-08-24T19:41:00.000-07:00

Audrey's completed three weeks of Kindergarten already, but here are some pics from her first day. We took one with her "best friend" Emma, our cute little neighbor across the street. They ended up in the same class (one of five Kindergarten classes) and at the same table group. Audrey couldn't be happier. I went and had lunch with her this past Friday and got to see her in her social element. "Everyone is my friend" she casually told me when I asked who her friends were. She says her favorite part is leading the class when they walk to lunch. So far, so good, although she did just ask if we could make a count down calendar till she starts 1st grade.

ladders, beer bottles & the ER

2008-08-14T16:26:00.000-07:00

Tuesday didn't go down at all like a regular Tuesday. Rob called just after noon to calmly tell me he'd fallen off a ladder while pulling a wire for a security system install. He had lacerated his arm on a now broken beer bottle in an unfortunately placed box of empty bottles on the counter. He was patiently awaiting an ambulance to take him to an unknown hospital... oh, and he was not okay. Panicking, I made arrangements for Bennett and Audrey, who would be done with school in a couple hours. After many hours in triage at the first hospital and then a transfer (ambulance ride #2) to a hospital downtown, he could finally be seen by a hand surgeon. Dr. Champagne performed emergency surgery to repair one severed artery, one tendon and a partially severed nerve. All in all, about 50 internal, permanent stitches and 20 staples that will come out next week. Here he is a couple hours after the surgery, still trying to shake off that general anesthesia. We were home by midnight; the kids enjoyed their first sleepover at our friends'... thank goodness for good friends! The doctor says to expect about six weeks in the splint and 12-18 months for the "fuzziness" to subside in his pinky and ring fingers. We're pretty grateful everything turned out as well as it did - we know that the Lord is blessing us. Thank you to all who have called to check up on us and for all your prayers!

It's a BOY!

2008-05-30T14:57:00.000-07:00

Pretty self-explanatory, I know. These were taken on the 13th (of May) but it's taken me a bit to get them posted. Both Audrey and Bennett came with us as I thought it would be very exciting for them (and I didn't want to find a sitter for our 7am appointment). They were bored out of their minds and didn't see what the big deal was. Audrey told me a couple days after that she didn't believe that there's a baby in my tummy, but that I was just eatting too much food... kids!!

Two cats in the yard

2008-05-01T15:20:00.001-07:00

A few of you have asked for pics of our new home... well, it's new to us. So here it is complete with kitties and a little girl. We're loving it!

And so it grows

2008-05-01T14:59:00.000-07:00

Here's an update on my growing belly at 17 weeks (and counting - I'll admit it). I've donned the preggo shirts to help strangers determine it's a baby causing the bulge. Maternity clothes are really so much more comfortable besides. We got to hear the heartbeat again at he doctor's this morning. Bennett was so excited to be there for that! My "anatomy scan" ultrasound is scheduled for May 13th. I'm betting on a girl, but we're taking suggestions for boy names too!

"All Skate"

2008-04-02T09:02:00.001-07:00

It's been so fun to watch them develop this new hobby - fun, aside from the skinned knees, banged walls and flattened toes that is. Audrey's gotten quite good with the new skates Grandpa Bailey got for her just a week ago. Whenever I take the time to get Bennett decked out in his safety gear he'll change his mind about wanting to skate by the time he's ready. Thus, he usually goes without.

Easter makes em hoppy

2008-03-28T16:31:00.001-07:00

This Sunday, not unlike other Sundays, we found Audrey dressed for 1:00 church by the time we rolled out around 8. She's always so anxious for primary and had forgotten about the visit from the Easter Bunny. Rob's parents were visiting from Yuma/ Vancouver for the weekend - it was so great to have them here for the holiday!

The search for their baskets didn't take long... and then the sugar-fest began. Why do we do this to ourselves?

And here he is inspecting the basket, getting up close and personal with all its tasty treasures.

Here's the egg hunt with some friends from our last ward. Can you just sense the urgency?

It's for real!!

2008-03-26T16:34:00.001-07:00

Rob said he didn't believe it till today when we saw the pictures. I, on the other hand, have been pretty sure that all this nausea - oh, and the constant dozing off day after day was proof for a couple months now.

Bailey baby #3 has two legs, two arms and two hands... that's a pretty good start!
"She's" 12 weeks now and just over 2 inches long. We won't know for another couple months if my feelings about her being a girl are right.

California Get-Away

2008-03-26T16:20:00.000-07:00

I got to accompany Rob for a trade show in Anaheim at the beginning of March. First of all, California is so beautiful right now - it felt like paradise coming from the desert of Phoenix. We left Audrey and Bennett with Rob's folks in Yuma and took off Thursday afternoon. We were pretty busy with show Friday and Saturday, but managed to squeeze in an evening at Downtown Disney and one to see Fool's Gold after treating ourselves to some sweet back massages at one of those places where everyone's walking by and wishing they could have one too. Sunday we went to see Rob's cousin and family in Murrieta, just an hour from where we were staying.
Friday night I helped Rob fulfil a childhood dream by dining at the Medieval Times restaurant.

We lacked the appropriate clothing for the time period, but got the royalty seating and had a hearty, finger-lickin' good meal of spare ribs, soup, a baked potato, about half a chicken and, of course, Pepsi.

All this was served to us while watching a fantastic story unfold in the arena. They had very well trained horses and riders (knights) - we cheered for the black and white knight who did not prove to be the most talented. There were excellent sword fights and even jousting. All in all, a super fun evening.

This is us and our knight friend - he's a part of the really cool museum at Medieval Times.

California Adventure

2008-03-26T15:17:00.000-07:00

Monday we decided on a trip to the beach to catch some California sun and we're still a little sad we never made it there. We changed our minds after getting in the car (it's okay to be spontaneous when you don't have the kids to worry about) and chose California Adventure instead.

We couldn't stand the thought of going to Disney Land without the kiddos, so we went to the theme park next door and had a great time. We didn't realize there would be so many things for them at this park too. Here's part of the parade featuring Rattitoue's chefs.

Here's us looking rested and youthful like we did on our wedding day.

My favorite was the California Screamin' roller coaster - definitely the best I've ever ridden. Rob loved the Soaring Over California ride that makes you feel like you're in an open cockpit flying over all of California's great sites. We ate ice cream, watched the parade and felt like kids again... what a wonderful day!

A Little Family Overview

2006-07-16T16:20:00.000-07:00

Rob and I were married the 26th of December, 2001. That's right, the day after Christmas for all of you who don't remember or are still holding a grudge for the inconvenience. I guess that means we've been blissfully married for nearly five years now! My how time flies when your life is changing in drastic ways.

The big mile stones have been: my graduation from BYU in April of 2002, Our move to Washington shortly after that, Audrey's birth on June 6, 2003, Rob's graduation from Concordia University in May of 2004 and Bennett's arrival May 22, 2005. We are currently prepping for our move to Salem, OR where Rob will be attending Willamette University, studying law for the next... let's not talk about for how long.

I'll get some more recent photos in here a little later.

Coming On Board

2006-07-16T16:04:00.000-07:00

My inclination has been to avoid this whole blog hype. Fortunately, encouragement from several friends and the realization that it might be kind of fun to create a blog have helped me to take the plunge. Not really that big of a deal afterall. Keeping in touch has always been important to me - hopefully this will help me to do a better job. Thank you to all who have influenced and motivated me.