The Bailey Lives

First Day of School 2011

2011-09-06T13:23:00.003-05:00

The summer is officially over and the new school year is upon us. I really was done with the little to no routine. We needed to have a schedule and I was out of ideas to keep everyone busy everyday. But, it is always bitter sweet because not only are they gone from me, but it means they are getting older. How is it that my first born is already a fourth grader??? I remember when I was in fourth grade and it doesn't seem like it was that long ago.

I really can't believe that my sweet little Dallin is a first grader. When we moved back here from Colorado Alexa was starting first grade. Time really does fly. He is six years old and before I know it he will be 16! They were excited to meet their classmates and teachers. It was cold and rainy this morning so all the pictures are in the house but these are my cute kiddos all ready to go. the back pack shot
cuties

such a big kid. she even has her accessories on!

Love this guy!

I'm Not Ready for This

2011-08-09T21:13:00.002-05:00

The other night Alexa and I got to spend some time together. The twins were with us, but they were good little two year olds. Anyway, we went to a sandwich shop and then walked around. Before we went to eat we strolled by TJMaxx. I asked Alexa if she wanted to pop in and browse. She was up for it. Alexa has always loved clothes, but was content to let me pick them out. (I kind of have an obsession with kids' clothing, but that is a separate post:)

In the past little while she has gotten a little more opinionated, but not much. This night she started to really look and she brought something to me. The best part of this particular outfit was that the necklace was attached so she would always be properly accessorized. She tried the dress on and to my amazement it was pretty cute. When I told her we could buy it I thought she was going to explode from excitement. she had actually picked something cute! She couldn't wait to wear it the next day.

As I was putting the dress back on the hanger I couldn't help but notice the label. This particular company selling this dress was called b-tween. I didn't know whether to laugh or to cry. Here I am with my "baby" and she is wearing clothing for a tween. She is still such a little girl, but as my brother likes to point out, she has been with me for 9 years and I only get 9 more. I almost started bawling right there in the TJMaxx.

When she put the dress on the next day and also asked if she could do her own hair I realized that she is not my baby anymore, she is b-tween, but maybe just maybe the next 9 years will bring as much joy as the first 9.

My little tween, I love this girl so much!

The Year of Sickness

2011-03-24T14:05:00.002-05:00

It all began around Halloween. Dallin threw up almost every week. Then around Thanksgiving I got it. We were well for Christmas but that didn't last long. We have all thrown up. There have been more fevers than I can count. The twins have had more diarrhea than I care to remember. We've had strep, scary high fevers, sinus infections and even trips to the ER for beads up the nose.

I know it seems like a lot, but I guess that is what you get when you have so many little kids walking around your house. The twins eat things off the floor and stick their fingers in their mouths after playing in the toilet. Dallin is less than stellar at always washing his hands, way less than stellar. I was surprised when Alexa went down this week with strep though. She is almost OCD when it comes to handwashing, but even she couldn't escape it.

It hasn't been all bad though. I got to spend some one on one time with Dallin last week and Alexa this week. When Dallin was finally feeling better I took him to get some ice cream and Alexa and I made some cards this afternoon. I do want some health in our house though. So, hopefully Spring will finally come to this part of the country and we can get out of our house of sickness and into the fresh air.

The Worm

2011-01-24T21:01:00.005-05:00

Chances are if you come to our house this is how you will find my oldest child. Completely engrossed in a good book. This child has a thirst for reading and learning that I have never known. I love to read but in a different way. I read books. Alexa gets lost in them. She becomes a part of the story, rereads her favorite parts and juggles four or five different ones throughout the day.

I gave her 9 books for Christmas. She has read all of them and some of them twice. She has also read other books since then too like "The Wizard of OZ" and "Anne of Green Gables". She brought home another Nancy Drew book today as well. Six of the books I gave to her for Christmas were Nancy Drew books.

She also comes home from school and tells me how exciting her day was and how much she has learned and she is always so happy to tell me what they are working on. I love this girl and sometimes can't believe such a smart, talented beautiful girl is all mine. I love her to pieces.

*sometimes I do have to tell her to put the book away so we can do other things. Yesterday I took her shopping for some shoes and she was bummed that she didn't bring her book so she could read while we waited in lines. I told her we didn't need books while we shopped, we could chat.

It Gets Him Every Time

2011-01-13T22:06:00.003-05:00

I know I said I was going to blog more. Why is it that life gets away from me? The babies are quite handfuls these days. When they are awake I have to be fully aware and ready for anything. Lily loves to throw things in the toilet. I found Carter's shoe in one the other day. They both love to see if they can get into Alexa's room and color themselves with as many markers they can get their hands on before someone stops them. There is never a dull moment around here.

But, this post is really about Dallin. This child loves to watch movies. He is kind of a junky if you let him. I have had to cut him off and make him earn some TV time. He now has a chore chart that he loves to check off. One of his favorite things to do is laundry and today he learned how to dust the furniture. He did his chores and read me a book so I let him watch his beloved Toy Story 3 while Alexa was at a friend's house. He tries to watch this any chance he gets.

The babies were downstairs playing so toward the end of his movie I went down to play with everyone. The movie had gotten to the point where Andy was giving away his toys and it was hard for him to do. Dallin looked at the screen and said, "why is he giving them away mom?" He had big tears in his eyes. I told him, "he needs his toys to have a new home." He shed his tears and then kept playing and then we danced to the songs of the closing credits.

I write this story here because this is a true representation of this little man. He is rambunctious, busy, stubborn and cute. But, one of his greatest qualities is his tender-heartedness. He really has a tender soul. Somedays I think his other qualities may make me scream but then he reminds me of who he really is and I hold my tongue and hug him tight.

Where I Left Off

2010-12-31T23:09:00.012-05:00

It is New Year's Eve and I am going to finally write about my twins turning 1. They are 17 months old now but I don't want to forget their first birthday. It was really fun to celebrate their first year and to realize that I really could thrive with 4 children. We had a fun little party and took a ton of pictures. I love these two and I am so glad they are in our family

For some reason I can't move pictures so they are a little out of order. Let me know if you know how to move pictures. mmm... these cakes look good

Lily demolished hers

Carter just kind of picked at his

We're one!

Cute birthday girl

Cute birthday boy

It's my birthday and I'll cry if I want to

The desserts

The Cakes- my friend just got into cake decorating. I asked for polka dots and she did a great job!

decorations- thanks for the cute buntings Nancy!

Birthday breakfast

Cute Carter

Dad showing Lily how to open a present

Cute one year olds!

Carter July 22, 2010

Lily July 22, 2010

What Happened That Year?

2010-12-29T13:16:00.004-05:00

Well, it has been a long time since I wrote anything. I almost didn't even remember how to sign in. Last night as Jeff and I were talking I told him that I didn't feel the need to blog right now. I had rationalized and felt that I was actually telling the truth. You see, I thought, I am busy, I have four little kids, a house, a calling, a busy husband blah blah blah. I just thought I didn't need another thing to worry about. It wasn't that important.

Until this morning as I was sweeping the floor and thought to myself. What did we do Christmas 2006? I racked my brain and could not for the life of me remember that Christmas. I didn't know if we had traveled or not and what the kids looked like that year. I didn't know how I had felt or what activities we had done. I could have found pictures somewhere, but I just looked back in the archives of my blog and I found everything. Cute pictures of the kids, stories of what we did, accounts of people we saw. It all came flooding back to me. I looked back at a friends' blog last night who told me about a picture of me holding her newborn in the hospital. I said, I don't think I have seen that picture and she told me to look on her blog. I went back to 2008 on her blog and sure enough there was that picture. I guess it is not the blog that is important but my thoughts that are.

I read through some of my posts this morning and saw that I don't know how to write eloquent poetry like so many out there. I sometimes laugh at how lame I sound sometimes. But, I do like to think about what our lives were like then and it makes me happy. So, I am back. I may not have the best pictures or the funniest stories but at least I will remember what we did for Christmas.

Survived

2010-07-21T18:45:00.004-05:00

That is what I have done the last year. sometimes that is all that I could do. Sometimes I did it better than others and sometimes tears were shed. I sit here as I become nostalgic about this moment in time just 12 months ago. I was sitting in my house very uncomfortable. I knew the time was upon me to have two new additions to our family. I was excited beyond belief! I was also scared out of my mind. How was I going to care for 2 babies? How was I going to be a good mom to 4 kids? Being a parent is so much more than taking care of their physical needs. It is reading to them, bathing them, teaching them, cuddling them, and holding their hand when life gets scary. I often think about my own parents and how wonderful they are. I now understand how hard it is to raise children. My parents had 5 and we are all great people today. At least I think so.

Now I sit here listening to Carter babble mamama before he goes to sleep and Lily giggling at him. I hope that this year has been as good for them as it has for me. I don't know the number of hours of sleep I have missed or the number of times I have been puked on. But it is all worth it when I see them smile and crawl as fast as they can to me when I walk in a room. My tired eyes, arms and hands wouldn't trade it for the world.

I couldn't have survived without Jeff. He works 60 hour weeks most weeks and still has time to help with the kids, do chores and be the favorite parent of the older two by far! Speaking of Alexa and Dallin, they have been rockstars too. Life is a little crazy around here most of the time and they have really stepped up to the plate. Getting diapers, playing with babies, picking up toys and helping me get a sane minute to myself. This year has been one of survival but I would do it all again if I had to. I just really hope I don't have to:)

My babies will be one tomorrow. I am kind of sad because they are my last babies. I know that our family is complete, but it is kind of sad that I won't have that newborn high again. For now I will just look at pictures of my perfect children and know that I am blessed.

Happy fourth of July!

2010-07-04T21:57:00.005-05:00

We had a great fourth! Since it was on a Sunday this year I had a little too much fun dressing everyone alike for church:) We got some great pictures after church out on the patio. After pictures we grilled steaks, put the twins to bed and did fireworks and had root beer floats. It was a great day! It was so fun to dress them alike. I won't be able to get away with it for too much longer, but for now I am having fun.
lounging

I love Lily's dress:)

Carter has just learned to clap. Lily could care less about the pictures.

Oops same photo, but it is cu-uute!

Easter, Blossoms, babies and a Birthday!

2010-06-28T21:07:00.007-05:00

We had a great Spring even though the blog has been lacking. I really am blessed to have such great kids who cherish every little thing we do. Easter was so fun because it was conference weekend so we were just together having a great time.

One of our Spring traditions is to go see the cherry blossoms down at the tidal basin. Jeff was super busy with work so we were lucky that he took a break to go have a picnic with the fam and see the beautiful blossoms. The babies are getting bigger. They are almost a year old and I know I have not shared enough photos of them. I took some pictures in our yard when they were about 7 months old so sorry they are not recent but man are they some cute babies!!!

Finally Alexa had a glamour birthday party. My friend is a hairdresser so she came and did the girls' hair and we had such a great time! I am not a good blogger I know but I had to show off my cute kiddos:)

Could it be true?

2010-05-26T21:11:00.003-05:00

I am just going through some photos to update what we have been doing around here the last few months. I have been having so much fun with my kids that sometimes I forget to sit down and document what we have been doing. I will start slowly and hopefully catch up to where we are now. Alexa had her first experience with cheerleading and she also turned 8 and was baptized. Going to see Alexa cheerlead was so much fun! We actually got to go by ourselves. We got a babysitter and just enjoyed our oldest. We are so proud of her and what this year has brought for her up on top!
Go Hawks!

Love this picture!

We are so proud of our big 8 year old!

The twins were asleep for the family photo op:)

It's a start right!

My House

2010-03-31T16:19:00.007-05:00

We have been in our house now for almost 9 months and I am finally getting around to pictures of our little piece of the world. We love owning our own home and we love making it ours. I have been so busy lately with the kids and with a knee that is not well. We finally figured out that I have something called reactive arthritis which just means that my body attacks itself sometimes. Anyway, it has been 2 months and the swelling has finally gone down enough that I can walk with only a slight limp and I am back to exercising. The twins are getting bigger. At their six month appointment Carter was 11 lb 6 oz and Lily was 11 lb 8 oz and now at 8 and a half months they are 14 and a half! Anyway, enjoy these pictures and stay tuned to pictures of alexa's baptism family room

dining room

kitchen

living room

front entry, yes we need window coverings. I want wood blinds and Jeff wants curtains hence we don't have anything yet:)

Alexa's craft corner in her room

Alexa's room aka the guest room or Jeff's bed when the twins cry at night. Come visit us and this comfy bed could be yours.

the play room and my exercise room. I am finally able to use my elliptical machine again.

the twins' room. This rocking chair is my favorite part. Enlarge the picture and you will see that it is polka dotted. I love it!

Lily's crib

Carter's crib

Dallin's room. He loves this REAL surfboard on his wall.

Dallin's bed. He loves this bed. Whenever someone new comes over he always wants to show them his awesome bed.

Last but not least the master bedroom. Not too exciting yet.

Christmas in February?

2010-02-14T16:09:00.011-05:00

Now that it is Valentines Day I am finally getting around to Christmas. I have somehow hurt my knee and we have had two blizzards which has resulted with an injured mommy entertaining four very bored children so blogging has not been on the forefront. Who am I kidding? This year has been bad when it comes to blogging. Hopefully I will catch up by the twins' first birthday. We had a great Christmas. Grammy was able to come and spend 10 days with us!!!! It was heavenly. She helped with the kids, baked, cooked, ironed, cleaned, babysat(we went on an actual date, dinner and a movie) played with kids and did I say helped me sooooooo much!!! I cried big tears when she left on New Years Day. It was an awesome holiday break and I think everyone had a great time. Here are the pictures to prove it. Some of them are out of order but I can't figure out why I can't move them. Okay, here is Dallin's gingerbread man that he decorated all by himself. We were all laughing so hard we were crying. Can you tell he sees me feeding the twins too much'? We called him the Gingerboob boy :)

We went bowling on New Years Day and the kids had a blast.

Lily on Christmas Eve at the diner

Grammy and Carter at the diner.

Aww, what a cute couple!!

Grandpa, we are so glad to keep the tradition going strong of going out to breakfast on Christmas Eve.

Sneaking candy while making a gingerbread house.

Dad is always the builder

Christmas Eve pjs

Carter in his new pjs

My cuties

Running down the stairs on Chrismtas morning

No disappointment here!

Carter was really impressed with his new toy:)

Alexa and Dallin made some art for Dad's office.

Dallin loved his leapster, thanks Grandma and Grandpa

Excuse the horrible picture of me, but Jeff got me my very own laptop. I have never had my own computer!! I love it . It is tiny and red and I use it all the time, like right now!!

Mom and Dad were good to Alexa and got her a DSi just like she wanted

Grammy made aprons and chef hats for the kids. They love them and use them all the time.

Cute chef

Lily loved her rattle!

More pics in front of the tree!

Merry Christmas!

Let's start here

2010-01-08T12:59:00.005-05:00

Yes, we are still alive. I know so many of you were wondering. We had a great December. I am way behind on just about everything so we will just start here. Everyone has posted about sitting on Santa's lap and such but we got to do it and then go home and wake up the next morning to 2 feet of snow!!!! That's right 2 feet. We had a great time playing in it. School was cancelled for three days which was just fine because Alexa was supposed to go to school up until the 23rd, weird. Jeff's car was stuck for three days so when he went to work he took mine and we were stuck. It was kind of crazy but fun. The kids stayed in their jammies all day and played in the snow. We also had a great Christmas but that will come next. For now enjoy our pictures. Santa baby

Singing at the Christmas party

Never tell this kid to say cheese or you get this, what a doll though.

another Santa baby:)

Next year they will be screaming!

I love this girl! She is getting skeptical about the jolly guy though:(

Hot chocolate, we had a lot of it in December

Look at all that snow, did we move back to Colorado?

Fun dad

Lex

Crazy!!!!

Digging out. Jeff was out there for three hours and still couldn't get the Civic out. We didn't get it out until Wednesday!!!!

Now that they are sleeping through the night...

2009-12-14T10:07:00.006-05:00

I finally feel human enough to blog again. We had a great Thanksgiving with friends. We have so much to be thankful for this year! Four healthy kids, a new house, Jeff has a great job and we have everything we need. It was a great weekend, Jeff was actually home and we had so much family time I didn't want it to end. Jeff loooooves to decorate for Christmas so we trimmed the tree the day after Thanksgiving and he put lights outside. I will get a picture of those later. We put the rest of the decorations up and played with the Little People Nativity.

There are other pictures of the babies, Carter rolled over once, but won't do it again and he tried peas. Lily didn't even want to try food. Carter didn't eat them so we will hold off a little longer. Like I said above they are FINALLY sleeping and we are all so much happier. They sleep 8 hours and then have a feeding and then sleep for three more hours. Their naps are better and they are happier babies so hopefully life will be more manageable now that I will not be in a constant sleepless fog. Enjoy the photos and hopefully there will be more soon.

Some of the photos are out of order because blogger won't let me move them.

Babies First Thanksgiving no thanks

The tree trimming

Alexa loves to decorate the tree!

I hung the stockings and then took a crooked picture:)

yes that is my 4 year old on the top of the ladder. I am such a good mom

The kids' table at Thanksgiving. Dallin is "trying" the turkey and eating his third roll.

My pie, I think it looks pretty good. (banana cream, my favorite)

Cute smiles

the rolling progression

Four Months already?

2009-11-20T13:51:00.002-05:00

I can't believe Lily and Carter are four months. Well, I can. It has been a long four months because they are a lot of work, but it also feels like it has gone fast too. They had their check-up the other day and they are doing well. They are starting to be a little more interactive and we have started to sleep train them a little. I hate hearing them cry but they need to learn to soothe themselves or we all might go bonkers! Lily has a little harder time than Carter but all in all they are doing well and sleeping 5-6 hour stretches at night now. This helps me a little but I am still tired in the morning. Getting up at 2 and then at 5 is better but still not great. I told Jeff last night that I just want 2 days of bed rest back. Not too much but just some time all to myself to catch up, oh well. I know it will be over soon and I will wonder where the time went. Will I ever be a morning person again and get a workout in EVER? Soon, I know. They are so fun though, laughing and cooing and smiling. I love these little people and I mean little

Their stats at four months:

Lily :

9 lb. 8 oz.(below the charts)

21 3/4 in.(below the charts)

head 15.5 in(10th percentile)

Carter:

10 lb. 6 oz. (below the charts)

22 3/4 in. (below the charts)

head 16 in (15th percentile)

As you can see we have little peanuts but they sure do have brains! We love you little guys!

Things I don't want to forget

2009-11-10T09:44:00.005-05:00

I have been a horrible blogger lately. I should be better now that I have two more people to talk about but it has been hard. Anyway, there are some things I want to write down before I forget them.

Dallin:
Sneaking candy at all times of the day
you are so social, you always want to play with friends or family members
wearing your buzz costume as much as possible

you played soccer this season and loved it
falling asleep at 6 pm many days because you are so exhausted. Always falling asleep in church
going commando all night because mom let you get dressed by yourself after your bath
asking Alexa to teach you how to be good
always making some kind of noise with your mouth
talking in your sleep
giving great hugs

Alexa:
Always writing some kind of story
you also love to be with friends, and everyone is your friend no matter what their age!
never putting your socks in the laundry.
growing out of all of your clothes, stop growing will ya?!
loving second grade
scored 2 goals this soccer season
you always look beauiful, you have great hair and beautiful eyes
you call me out. For example yesterday at Target I couldn't remember what I needed and you asked, "why don't you ever have a list mom?" busted!
you always try to be your best
you are starting to get an opinion and that is probably a good thing
lots of hugs and kisses especially when it is time to go to bed!

Carter:
lots of smiles
lots of cooing and talking
lots of crying
not much sleeping:)

Lily:
Lots of smiles
you are tiny!
not much talking yet
not much sleeping:)

not the most exciting post but it lets you know the good the bad and the ugly.

p.s. blogger will not let me move my pictures! Does anyone know why?

Halloween 2009 and some cute babies

2009-11-02T13:50:00.008-05:00

We had a great Halloween! It all started with a parade at Dallin's preschool. He was buzz Lightyear and he loved every minute of it. This was on Thursday and he has worn it everyday since. He was so excited and kept saying, "To Infiniti and Beyond!" He also got to wear his costume to soccer on Saturday. I have pictures of that but I am trying to get these up while the twins are asleep and they are on another camera so that will have to come later. Alexa's school is LAME, well it is the county. They don't let them dress up or have a party, lame, lame! She had to wait until Saturday, but she had a ton of fun at the ward trunk or treat and then trick or treating. She woke up Saturday with a cold and almost missed the fun but she perked up that evening and had a great time. I was so glad that she did because she had been saying in her prayers all week for a great holiday with the family. That little girl is the cutest thing ever! The twins were also very festive as Santa and Mrs. Claus. The cutest baby clauses ever!!! I still can't belive Halloween is over! Being on bedrest all summer really has me all messed up. I still think it should be summer time because I missed it all. I can't believe I bought egg nog today and Thanksgiving is just around the corner. It will be Christmas before we know it! Enjoy all the pictures.

All Smiles

2009-10-08T13:51:00.006-05:00

I have been trying to capture smiles on camera for a few days now. As you can see from the top picture this is not an easy task. Although they are adorable, they are the crankiest babies I have ever had. I thought they were just hungry so we have been supplementing. I pump after as many feedings as I can. This seems to help a little but they are still just cranky. I think this may start to ebb out now that they are more aware of their surroundings, but if you live in the area and want to come hold a baby give me a call. (they love to be held, but I can't hold them all the time or even at the same time, I need a double sling) Anyway, I attempted to get smiles this morning but I finally got some this afternoon. Thanks Mom for begging me to get these up. I haven't even gotten a shower yet today but I have updated the blog:)

first attempt

Carter

Lily

Boys Just Wanna Have Fun!

2009-09-29T09:20:00.002-05:00

Dallin, You are so stinkin' cute!!! I have had some times where I have lost my patience because let's face it, you're 4, but most of the time you are the cutest thing ever. I love your personality and your curiosity. I know that I have been an out of it, exhausted mommy. Thanks for still loving me and for continuing to be you, cute as ever. I love you buddy. Never forget how to love life the way you do.

Dancing and having fun as usual

Dallin has been preoccupied with what boys can do. Girls get their hair dyed and their nails done and they can wear makeup. He is constantly wanting to know what boys get to do so we had a morning of learning what boys can do. He had fun shaving and doing fun things with his GREAT hair! Love you bud.

shaving just like Dad, don't worry the cover was still on.

Fun hair! He kept saying, "Mom, I look like Dane!" He didn't want to keep it like this though.
Apparently he thinks Dane looks cool but he likes his hair flat he said. He does have great hair though.

Cutest thing ever, look at those baby blues!

Who says boys can't have fun too?

Two Months

2009-09-28T14:19:00.000-05:00

The twins had their two month check up this week and they are doing great!!! Lily also had her pulmonologist appointment this past month and she is now wireless! No more apnea monitor. She is now easier to carry around. At her pulmonologist appointment they said she wasn't growing quickly enough but a week later we saw the pediatrician and she had gained 7 ounces so she is growing!!! Carter weighed in at 7 pounds 4 ounces and Lily was 6 pounds 15 ounces. Still pretty little and no where near the charts but they are getting bigger, now if they could just sleep a little longer a night ;) Mom and Miss Lily

Cute outfits

I love these people

Dallin loves Lily

Dallin had to lie down with them too.

Carters been watching football with Dad!

Thanks for the adorable dress Shauna, she looks great in it!

Lily and Carter's Blessing Day

2009-09-27T10:00:00.009-05:00

The proud parents. Blogger wouldn't let me move this picture so we are front and center:)

Carter and Lily were blessed on Sunday September 13 by their father Jeff Bailey. It was a beautiful day and the blessings were wonderful. We know that these two will be loved and will be a blessing in our home and to the world. We had Jeff's mom in town and my parents were able to attend as well. Since we live so far from family it was a small gathering but we also had many friends who were there for the blessing. I love these little people and I am so glad they are a part of our family.

I stress out when there is a big a occasion happening so when I read this blog I had to tell people about it and apologize to my family for becoming Bobby. It really was a great day and I love my little family, or as Alexa says. "I love being part of a BIG family now!" Enjoy our not so great pictures. It was a day of camera failure but we did get a few good ones of Carter and Lily and that is what matters.

Family picture time is quite comical around here.

The best picture of the whole crew but in bad light. Blow it up if you want to see our faces:)

Carter. He wouldn't put his feet down. He is wearing an adorable blessing outfit and booties that my friend Jodi hand knitted

The darlings.

Beautiful Lily

So sweet. Lily is wearing a bracelet that her great aunt Lisa made for her.

Lily's dress was worn by me and my sisters and Alexa and it is just beautiful. Thanks mom for keeping it so we could have such a great tradition.

Exhausted

2009-09-21T11:06:00.002-05:00

I am sure many of you have given up on my blog. I assure you I am still here but I am EXHAUSTED!! Two infants is killing me. I have a ton of pictures to post but right now I am choosing a quick shower and reading a book to a very patient, cute 4 year old who wants his mommy's attention. I will post soon I promise.

Little Mommy

2009-08-28T08:55:00.000-05:00

Where do I begin with this little lady? She is such a cutie with her new little brother and sister. She has been in love since the minute I called her to tell her that they had arrived. She was almost crying when I told her on the phone, she was so excited! I had no idea she would be so excited but she is loving life with them.

She is not afraid of work and has helped me out so much. She tends them while I shower, gives them binkies, burps them, helps with diaper changes, and keeps them happy. We haven't taken them out too much but when we have she is so excited to tell people about them and what their names are. We have had to tell her not to tell everyone everything about us but it is cute to see how truly happy she is to be a part of our litle family.

I love having Alexa around. She really is such a sweet, happy girl and I am so blessed to have an oldest child that is so loving and willing to help. Sometimes I forget she is only 7 because she is so willing to be such a big kid and help me out. I have loved seeing her with the twins and seeing what a great mother she will be some day. I love you little lady!

Dank You Dat

2009-08-28T08:53:00.000-05:00

This kid has the uncanny ablity to sleep anywhere at anytime. He was watching Wall-E and fell asleep while eating popcorn.

Giving loves

This little four year old of mine just cracks me up! He is cute, sweet, crazy and mischevious all at the same time. His new moniker while he prays is Dank You Dat(thank you that) and then he lists what he is thankful for. He says the cutest things, among them are:

Jesus is reverent

Dad is my dad

Mom is my mom

At least twice in each prayer that the babies could come out of mommy's tummy, (he likes having me back)

Grandma could come

we could have a new house

we can go to church

Alexa is my sister

for the babies

Those are just a few and he is just the cutest thing in the world with his new brother and sister. He always wants to kiss and hold them and give them their binkies. He does get bored quickly and gives them back but he loves to be my little helper.

I was worried about how our little relationship would change since he was my baby for so long but he still gives me cuddles and kisses and I love him just the same, although he seems to have grown very quickly in the last four weeks. Jeff thinks he has a huge head! He does but look at those beautiful blue eyes he has too.

He is mischevious still but he keeps things interesting especially when he snags something out of the pantry that he is not supposed to or if he comes to you and just stares you know he has done something wrong. He is my little crazy guy but he keeps it interesting around here. Everyone needs a little guy like him around. I am dankful dat he is in our family.

Photo Shoots

2009-08-19T15:04:00.004-05:00

These were taken at about 2 weeks so they are a few weeks late but hey we are doing our best around here. Here are some cute babes!

Perspective, this is a normal size stuffed animal. Carter can take him though.

All dressed up and nowhere to go

tummy time

Cute babies

2009-08-19T14:40:00.003-05:00

Trying out the crib. This was 2 weeks ago and they didn't do very well so we went back to the carseats but today they both napped in the crib! Obviously this will be Lily's crib but for now they are sharing, what cute little burritos.

They love their binkies and they always turn towards each other.

Thanks for the cute preemie outfits Anne Marie, they are perfect!

Cuties!

First Bath

2009-08-19T14:32:00.003-05:00

Carter Man didn't love the bath, but was okay for a minute. He really just wanted to get out and wrap up in his plush towel that grammy sent.

Lily was pretty calm while we bathed her but promptly pooped in the plush towel that Grammy made for her.

The Deets

2009-08-12T09:09:00.002-05:00

Now that the twins are three weeks old I finally feel a little more human and I want to write down how it all went down. By the way, they are doing great! They both weighed in yesterday at 4 lb 13 oz. so they are growing! Way to go Lily Beth and Carter Man (nicknames we are trying)

Anyway, back to the happenings of their birth. As you all know I was on bedrest and had been since about 20 weeks. At 34 weeks they had said that I could get up to get my own food and be around the house a little more but to still be careful. On Sunday was the 34 week mark. I tried to get up a little but my body was done. I had hard contractions so I just stayed in my bed anyway. That Tuesday July 21 I went to the OB for a checkup. She looked at me and said I looked kind of bad. I thought well, who doesn't when they are in bed for 4 months but she told me I looked like I was in pain. I told her that I still felt pressure and had hard contractions every day. She wanted to check me. She did and her eyes got wide. She said, " you are at a three and I can feel baby A's head." I was pretty sure I was dilating but not sure how far I was. She told me that she was sending me home but to go to the hospital if my contractions were 7-10 minutes apart. She told me to just stay in my bed and try not to get up. Well, I was used to that.

My kids were taken care of for the day and I went home and tried to rest. I cramped all day and Jeff came home at 8 and I was just uncomfortable but I was used to pain. This whole pregnancy I had contractions and pressure and even on heavy doses of medication I think I was just used to being uncomfortable. Tuesday night I was crampy and my contactions were probably 7 minutes apart but I was in denial and just told myself that they weren't close enough. I only got about 3 hours of sleep and by Wednesday morning I was still crampy but not too bad. I thought I was fine until I called my Mom and she told me I didn't sound good. I thought well, I am so tired but she insisted that I go back and get checked again.

At around 11:00 I was playing Bingo with Alexa before she went to a friend's house. She left and I thought well, I guess I will listen to my mom and go get checked even though I wasn't feeling that bad anymore. I called the office and they told me that I was too dilated the day before so I had to go to the hospital. I was kind of mad and begged to just go to the office but they said no, we don't want you to have twins in the office. I had Jeff stay home and work from home that day so at about noon I told Jeff that they were making me go to the hospital. We packed a bag and I got dressed and the whole way to the hospital I was saying, " they are just going to send me home."

We got there and I walked into the hospital and waited for Jeff to park the car. We got up to L&D at 12:30 and they got the admitting underway before they checked me. At about 1:00 they got me into a bed and hooked up to a monitor. They checked me and the nurse got wide eyed and said " Are you really not in any pain? I said, "not really" She said you are at a six! I was shocked. I was in denial and said so are you going to keep me? She laughed and said yes, you are having them now. They wheeled me to a room to get an epidural. They had to get it going in case I needed a c- section. I got to the room at about 1:30 and they checked again and I was at an 8, still not much pain. At 2:00 I had the epidural and they broke my water and then it was bad. I was having contractins on top of each other and I was hyperventilating. They have to deliver twins in the OR just in case you need a c-section so at about 2:15 they wheeled me in there and by 2:43 we had our little Lily Beth. It took 3o minutes because her head was turned to the side. Carter came 9 minutes later and he was sunny side up with the cord around his neck so that is why he took a little while.

I had the epidural but from the time they gave it to me and the time I had Lily it was not really working. It was a very quick delivery and quite painful, but it was over fast and individually they were my smallest babies yet so my recovery has been great. I was lucky not to need a c-section and I was lucky that it was over so quickly. I was grateful that they had not let me go to the office because later I found out that if I had I would have had to go to the hospital in an ambulance, now that would have been crazy.

When I write it down it sounds like it took longer than it did. It was fast and crazy! We had neonatologists and about 10 nurses in the room and I literally saw doctors running, which I have never seen before. They were all amazed at how fast it was all happening. I tried to be brave but honestly there was sobbing and screaming. The nurses had to give me oxygen to keep me from passing out and another one took my head in her hands and made me breathe.

It was a hard pregnancy physically, mentally and emotionally but it taught me a lot and when I look at my beautiful babies I am so grateful for modern medicine so that I didn't have them at 25 weeks when I was admitted for preterm labor the first time. I am also thankful that they are mine and if my body could handle it again I would do it again, but I know they are my last and I am living up every minute of babyhood that we have around here. Painful or not it was worth it!
They both were born so quickly and then whisked away to the NICU so I didn't even know what they looked like until they finally got me up to the NICU to see them. It was an exciting day and I wouldn't trade it for the world.

Two Weeks Today

2009-08-05T12:46:00.002-05:00

Let's Pretend.......

2009-08-02T09:55:00.007-05:00

That it is Wednesday July 29th and I told you that Carter came home today!!!!! I should have written this post then but having two infants in the NICU and then having them come home at separate times is a tricky time to maneuver. Carter has been doing so well from the get go. When he was born he wasn't breathing well, but once he started he did great. He began breastfeeding really well and after his jaundice quieted down he was able to go home! We are so grateful to the Lord for blessing us with our little peanut In the car on the way home
What a cute boy! That binkie looks huge! He went home weighing in at 4 lbs. 5 oz.

See ya NICU

Bonding at home with Miss Alexa after a tiring first night at home. He could tell he was in a different place and didn't sleep much. Oh well, I got a good week of sleep before he came home so it was bad, but not as bad as it could have been.

Now we are in present day and it is Miss Lily's turn to come home. She came home yesterday August 1, 2009. Lily has some sleep apnea issues so she had to stay longer to see how she responded to some medication and she was sent home on a respiratory/heart rate monitor. Kind of annoying, but so much better than what it could have been and she is home. We are so blessed to have this little lady here with us. We couldn't be more excited.

Our little lovebug leaving the NICU

Bonding with brother. We changed him back into his coming home outfit because they were supposed to match and come home together. Her blanket says "little lovebug" and his says "little peanut"

I have 4 kids!!!!!

The next series of pictures is all the same but I put them all up because I thought it was indicative of what family photos will be for the next few years now that we have a BIG family.

Baby getting lost in his hat, 4 year old not smiling and 7 year old closing her eyes.
Babies still crying and getting cropped out of the picture

Dad with his eyes closed. Oh well, at least we were all there, that's what counts right?

The new nursery, a work in progress but it is coming along. I will put more pics up when it is all done. This is Carter's crib.

This is Lily's crib, and also my fun black rocker with white polka dots.

The changing table that Jeff painted black. It used to be white. Great job babe.

The new residents. Aren't they cute?!!!

If you noticed. We are also in our new house. I will also post more pictures of the new house soon too. What an exciting, crazy ,but fun time in our lives. We are loving life.

More Pictures

2009-07-27T21:12:00.006-05:00

The last week of our lives have been very busy. We are so glad to have two new additions to our family. It has been exhausting going back and forth from the NICU, but the twins are doing better and we hope to bring them home soon. Lily has been having a harder time than Carter. She had to have a feeding tube until yesterday, but now they are both breastfeeding and they also no longer need IVs. I have been meaning to post pictures for all to see but after spending everyday at the NICU I just want to come home and sleep but tonight I finally got around to putting some up. They are out of order but it is late, just enjoy pictures of these cute little ones. I know you will. Out little Lily 4 days old
Dallin and Lily

Alexa and Carter

Finally roommates 4 days old. Notice the beanie babies. The rotary club came dressed as Santa and his elves to do Christmas in July. It was adorable!

Dallin and Carter

Carter's name poster that the kids made

Can you tell I am exhausted, you get this picture twice

Lily's poster. Notice that it says girls rock and Hannah Montana is mentioned.

The big kids going to see their new baby brother and sister.

Alexa and Carter

Carter under the billie rubin lights. Getting a tan

Daddy and Lily

Carter- sorry the picture got turned

Carter

They're Here!!!!!!

2009-07-22T20:24:00.003-05:00

Well, I made it to 34 weeks and 3 days and our little ones decided to make their debut. They came very quickly and we could not be more thrilled to have them with us. Both of them are doing well. Baby girl came in weighing 4 lbs. 8 oz and baby boy was 4 lb. 11 oz. They were both sent right to the NICU but they are doing great! We are so happy they are a part of our family and we can't wait to bring them home in the near future. So, here they are: Not the best pictures since we were taking them through an isolet and they were still unbathed but they are still cute!!!

Introducing

Carter Dee Bailey

July 22, 2009

4 lb. 11 oz

Introducing

Lily Elizabeth Bailey

July 22, 2009

4 lb. 8 oz.

I will relate the whole story later, but they are here and we couldn't be more thrilled!

I think the time has come

2009-07-17T07:53:00.003-05:00

No, not the babies! going private! I know a lot of you have gone private after getting comments from strangers or weirdos and I guess I was naive in thinking that it wouldn't happen to me. I was wrong, very wrong. I didn't want to take my blog private because I liked finding people and connecting again, but it has come time to protect my family from this weird world that we live in. I guess I have to think of it this way. Do I want pedofiles looking at my children? NO!!! I need to protect them so if you want to keep reading my blog please send me an email or leave a comment with you email and I will invite you.

Against My Better Judgment

2009-07-12T21:18:00.004-05:00

I haven't updated in a while but I just wanted to let you know that I am still here on bedrest and we have reached the 33 week mark. I am so glad that we have made it this far even though it has been really hard. I have been admitted to the hospital 3 times and on bedrest now going into the fourth month, but we are in the home stretch. I will be completley down until 34 weeks and then I can get up and move around my house a little until 36 but I hope to go into labor before then! I think I will. I have had tough contractions and I think it will be in the next few weeks.

Anyway, I have talked to my sisters on the phone and I can tell that they are curious to see how big I really am. I am normally a pretty small pregnant woman but this time there are two in there so I am quite large. At least it is pretty much just my belly, thank goodness. I got up yesterday to use the restroom (that's all I can get up for) and I decided to ask Jeff to snap some shots. I didn't think I would put more photos up but I guess I was bored. Enjoy the funny shots. I hope the beach ball I swallowed will be two very cute babies in a few weeks and my spine will go back to its normal shape. Looks painful huh? It is!!!

Just the belly (or beach ball if you prefer)
The full shot. No makeup and lame hair but I can't do it so this is me in my natural state.

I Hate Big Business

2009-06-25T06:56:00.002-05:00

Yesterday was a sad day. My friend Emily had been in town for 10 days taking care of me and my kids. She seriously kept my kids so busy that they are going through withdrawls. Let me tell you a few things they did. Saw UP, went Strawberry picking, went to a water park for kids, the natural history museum, the library, painting, playing and eating. She is the most amazing friend and she had to leave yesterday. I cried quite a bit when she and Jeff left for the airport. I will miss you Em. I hope you can come back when the babies are born!

Well, if that wasn't enough. Emily left around 6am. I was awake and I have to just stay in my bed anyway so I thought I would watch a little news to see if I could snooze for a few more minutes. Well, that didn't happen. Let me give you a little background. We are moving in a few days, yes we bought a house! I will post pictures as soon as we are settled. Anyway, I called our internet and cable company a few weeks ago to schedule the transition and they said it was set to go. Well, on Tuesday the new renters of this house called to schedule their set up and everything went down hill from there. Their new order messed up our order and the point is that instead of our service here being disconnected on the 29th it was disconnected on the 24th! They don't open until 8am so I had to wait to see if I could get it reconnected. Well, I spent a good 2 hours getting help and they finally said I would have service by noon. Well, noon came and went. 3pm came and went. 5pm came and went finally I called and someone finally helped me and at 8pm we had internet and tv. During all this our phone service went out but by 10pm we had our phone back. It sounds kind of silly that I went through all of that to get service back for a few more days, but I am on BEDREST!!! Yesterday was one of the loneliest days of my life. My kids were farmed out to friends because no one was here and I had no tv or internet!!

I read, slept, colored yes I colored a Littlest Pet Shop coloring book and waited for my family to come home. Luckily my sisters happened to call and I think I talked their ears off. My mom called too so I had some human contact. Anyway, it showed me how much I rely on technology. I remember when I started college they gave me an email address and I had no idea what to do with it. I didn't really know what the internet was. Strange how our lives change so quickly. Today will be a little different. I have all of my services and my aunt is coming to town to help us out. What a difference a day makes. Anyway, I titled this I Hate Big Business because I had to jump through hoops all day to get to someone who was willing to help me. Most people just transferred me or hung up on me, no one took responsibility. I wish there was a hometown company that just took care of their customers. I know they can't survive against the big guys so that will never happen but one can dream right.

Here's to another day on bedrest with a little entertainment! I am 30 weeks and 4 days. We are hoping for about 4 more weeks. I did get admitted for the third time last week and they let me go thank goodness so my goal is at least 34 weeks if not more and no more hospital time until they are born. Keep those fingers crossed.

Still on Bedrest

2009-06-10T17:40:00.003-05:00

Well, I had an eventful week this last week. I went to have an ultrasound last Tuesday and ended up being admitted to the hospital. They kept me overnight and slowed the contractions
I was having. I was able to come home(thank goodness!) but I have to be on strict bedrest. I only have bathroom privileges:( My mom is here to help which is such a blessing! We are getting along okay, but boy is this hard. I remember this being hard with Dallin but it started about 10 weeks earlier this time so it is just hard. I know that other people go through harder times so that is what I think about while I lie here. That is could be worse. I just want healthy babies so I just have to remind myself of that while I watch reruns and lame cable daytime TV.

Jeff has been great. Dallin's birthday is tomorrow so he took he and a few friends bowling on Saturday and then to McDonald's. Dallin thought it was a great birthday party. I was so sad to miss out on it, but he had so much fun. Jeff has also been keeping my spirits up. It is hard to smile all the time when you never make your bed! If you know me you know that I hate to have an unmade bed,but it would be a little uncomfortable to lie on a made bed day in and day out. He makes me smile and laugh and helps me see how blessed I am to be at home. I love him so much.

I did get out and go to a dr appt today and it was great to get out! I hadn't been outside in a week. Nothing has gotten worse so the bedrest stayed the same. No hospital! I am 28 weeks and we are hoping for at least 32 if not more so keep these little babes in your prayers.

On a completely different note. Jeff and I haven't been on a date in a looooooong time. I am looking for ideas of a great date night movie that we haven't seen. I think on Saturday night after the kids go to bed we will try to have a bedrest date. Maybe we will even get takeout. Send me movie recommendations.

I will survive, it has just been long so far, but our hope is to get two healthy babies out of it. We love them so much already.

Trying Again

2009-05-25T10:21:00.004-05:00

Here I go again. It has been a while since I tried to do the digi scrapping and now that I have so much time on my hands I am trying it again. I need some more sites to go to and some tips if you have some. This is another beginning. I am such a slacker and start and stop so much. Hopefully I can get good before the twins are born and then it will be easy to do when I have 4!

Thoughts Going Through my Head

2009-05-22T11:00:00.005-05:00

As I sit here I think of the future and what it holds for our family. I am so excited to be a mommy of four and to have our complete family. I know that I cannot do this pregnancy thing again. It is too hard on me and the rest of our family and 4 kids will be perfect!

I was having a conversation with Alexa and I think she is a little unsure of what her role will be in our family when she has to share the spotlight. I was happy to tell her that when I have another baby my heart grows. I am able to love every one of my children with all my heart. I do not have to divide my love between them. I am so thankful for a Father in Heaven who lets my heart grow each time I have a baby so that each child is just as special and loved as the others. I think she kind of got it, but I hope I can show this when she has two siblings that are so needy.

I am conscious of how difficult it may be to show each child individual attention, but it may come at times when we are not expecting it. I plan on showing this to my other children by doing what I do now, reading to them, playing games, teaching and enjoying the ages they are at. Although we will also do individual "dates" we can't do that everyday so hopefully I can show them individual love daily. I look forward to being the mom that I can't be at this time because I am immobile. I hope I will look back on this time and love it because I was able to sit and contemplate how great it is to be a mother and to have the opportunity to raise children who are good and love their Heavenly Father. I love my role

Now onto the secular things that have been on my mind. I can't wait to go shopping after these babies are born. For them for sure, but, I want a new wardrobe, is that selfish? I know this is the last pregnancy so my body will be mine!!! I don't know how long it will take to have "my body" back but I can't wait to shop knowing that my body will stay that way for quite a while.

I am a jeans girl so I will be getting a nice pair (or two :) What kind should I get? I also want to get some cute shirts in bright colors. Tell me where to shop ladies. I want cute shoes too. I know I will need to spend a lot on the jeans so tell me how to get cute tops and shoes for less. I have also been looking on a lot of blogs and noticed the fun jewelry out there. Tell me where you got it or if you make it let me know how to buy it. I know kind of lame but when you lie in your bed 24 hours a day you think a lot. I also want a new hairstyle. Not too short but fun! Hey, I have an idea why don't you all just nominate a fun mom of 4 for "What not to Wear" and they will pay for it all:) I will be 26 weeks on Sunday so only 10 more weeks to my goal, wish me luck!

I hate posts without pictures so here's a cute one. This was 3 years ago when we were in Utah all summer. This is Jeff's cousin Liz and she is getting married today! Congratulations Liz and Duncan! Wish I could be there.

23 Weeks

2009-05-18T09:50:00.005-05:00

Well, now that I am 25 weeks I am finally getting around to the shots that I took of my belly at 23 weeks. I had a doctor's appointment that day so that was the only day that my hair was actually decent looking so I decided that I could stand long enough to get a belly shot. Some of the shots were kind of silly including these two but I think taking a belly shot is kind of silly so there you go. This will probably be the only one that I do so enjoy! Yes, I am wearing black, doesn't every pregnant woman love black? It makes me feel less whale like.

I have another ultrasound this week to see the babes again, hopefully the bedrest stays the same and nothing is worse. I am looking forward to an outing, how sad is it that I am excited to go to the doctor.?!!! I also thought that I was feeling better, but now the vomiting is back because of such bad reflux and heartburn. I take medication and sleep at a 90 degree angle and it is still bad. I love these babies so much but man, is it taking a toll on this mama!

the sultry look, sorry. I didn't know what to do with my face since the belly is what you will be looking at.

A close up :)

It was a very Happy Mother's Day

2009-05-11T09:41:00.003-05:00

I may complain about being stuck in my bed, but I would never complain about being a mother. If being in my bed for a few months is what it takes then it will be all worth it. Yesterday I reflected on how lucky I am to be a mother. I have a fun 7 year old and a sneaky 3 year old that I love more than life itself. Sometimes I say to Jeff that I wish I could bottle them up at this age because they are so fun! On Saturday Dallin was eating his french toast and Jeff told him that they needed to get the oil changed. He said, "yeah, we are going to the man store!" We didn't prompt him or anything, he just knows and he is too cute. He runs around with his frog rain boots on the wrong feet and is constantly stealing things that he shouldn't, ie. chocolate chip cookies that shouldn't have been left on the kitchen counter. He truly is what motherhood is all about.

Alexa has a heart of gold. She was so excited yesterday to make me breakfast and give me gifts and a wonderful card that she made at school. She said in her card, "If there is anything you need me to do you can always call me."She then finished the card off with about a million xo's How cute is she? She is my sweetheart and my tenderhearted little girl and I love to see her smile. She loves to be outside and I love to see her face when she finds a caterpillar chomping on a leaf. I sat on the bed with her on Saturday and painted her toenails and I saw how much she enjoys doing the girly things with me. She is a doll and being her mother is a privilege.

Now to the man who made me a mother, what did I do to deserve such a wonderful husband? The last month has been a tough one without me being able to do anything. I think he said it best yesterday when he was talking to his brother. His brother asked him what he was up to and he said, "I'm a father by day and a mother by night, you know grocery shopping at 10 at night and laundry at all times." He said all of this with a smile and he has not once complained. Yesterday he made me all of my meals and even when I requested a BBQ chicken salad for my dinner last night he made it happen. We have enjoyed each other so much at this time too. I am in no hurry to get anywhere and we just laugh when he is around. Last night he downloaded Super Mario Brothers to the Wii and we laughed so hard at how we remembered how to play from such a long time ago. We laugh and smile and are so grateful for each other. Jeff works long hours and comes home and makes sure everything is taken care of including playing with and loving the kids. He truly makes my life fantastic and lets me be the mother I know I can be. I love my little family and I love having small children. It can be challenging, exhausting and frustrating, but I wouldn't trade it for the world.

Bedrest Blahs

2009-05-09T19:05:00.002-05:00

It is Saturday and I just want to get out and go somewhere. Jeff offered to make me a bed in the back of the pilot so I could go on a ride ,but that doesn't really sound like much fun to me. He took the kids to a soccer game today and then to lunch and shopping all while I watched lame daytime TV which is even worse on Saturday! I also read, slept, surfed blogs and talked on the phone. I am sure some women would enjoy a day or two off from all the duties they have, but it is getting kind of old and I still have a long way to go. I am 24 weeks tomorrow and we want to make it to at least 34, 10 more weeks!!!! I have ordered stuff online and I am starting to make sure we have things for the babies. I am hoping to start on some crafts next week and maybe brush up on my photo shop skills that have gotten rusty. I guess I just need to have a positive attitude. I am lying here so that I have two healthy babies and that is all that matters right? Right!

I have been surfing so many blogs and found so many recipe blogs. I sit here knowing that I can't cook but I want to bake so bad!!!! I have always liked baking but now that I can't I want to even more. So many fun recipes that are out there that I have bookmarked for when I am able to be up long enough to bake. I found a recipe for sugar cookies that are like the pink frosted ones that I will be baking as soon as I come home after the twins are born :)

I know I am rambling, but hey there is not much to do. Jeff is at the grocery store getting things that I crave and I am watching Special Agent Oso for the millionth time with Dallin. I have heartburn and my back is sore but the babies are still growing and that is what counts.

I have been going through pictures and I found this one from a few years ago. I have some cute kids.

The Beach

2009-05-07T09:44:00.004-05:00

We had a wonderful spring break! I know it was a while ago, but oh well. Anyway, my friend Erin's brother owns a beach home in Delaware. She was going there for Spring Break all by herself and she asked if we wanted to tag along. I of course jumped at the chance to go to the beach. As you can tell from the photos, it was cold!!!! But, we managed to have a great time. We played on the beach, played on playgrounds, shopped and ate. The kids had so much fun together and it was great to see the ocean. Erin and I joke now that this was my last hurrah because shortly thereafter I was put on bedrest. At least I went out with a bang. The kids checking out the beach, in their parkas:)
playing around with light on the playground. I love that little face.

I really think this is one of the best pictures I have ever captured of Alexa. That smile is so beautiful and she is genuinely happy collecting all of her sea shells.

This is a picture of the kids the night we got there. We had an easter egg hunt and they had so much fun being in a new place.

Easter

2009-05-05T14:12:00.005-05:00

We had a wonderful Easter. I know it has been over three weeks but I got behind and I couldn't let these cute pictures of my family go unseen. Alexa loved her dress and her new bracelet She loved having hair that was so curly that it looked short. She would never really cut her hair though. I asked her a few weeks ago if she wanted to cut it and she said and I quote " I don't want to cut my hair, it is part of my inner beauty." Love her. Anyway, here are some pictures of our fun day filled with The hunt for baskets, dying eggs, decorating cookies, learning about Christ and his sacrifice for us and enjoying a wonderful dinner with friends. It truly was a Happy Easter.On the huntThe eggs were hidden everywhereEnjoying her basket of goodies and showing off how cute she looks in her sponge rollers My two men

Some of the fun eggs. Dad was the best decorator of us all

Cute kids Can you tell Alexa was cold? I told her it was part of being a woman, to that she said

"I don't think I will like being a woman."

I just love how happy they look in this picture

I told you I was going backwards

2009-05-01T17:38:00.005-05:00

Shauna came to visit in March and we had so much fun!!! I was 17 weeks pregnant so I was kind of slow-going but being with Shauna is always an adventure. We went shopping at Paper Source in Georgetown, what a great place! We stayed in a hotel in DC, of course my pregnant self fell asleep early. We ate at La Madeleine and had a ton of fun in old town Alexandria. Tiffany came and later Anne Marie joined us too. I didn't get to see Anne Marie for too long because this pregnant lady couldn't keep up, but boy did we have a great weekend. I miss Shauna so much and hopefully after these babies arrive safely:) I will be able to go see her in Colorado. Enjoy some fun pictures. I swear I don't always wear my green coat, I just happen to have it on in every one of these photos!!!

We love Paper Source!

Anne Marie met up with us with her boys. We all planned to go to the National Portrait Gallery but I had to turn around and take a cab back to my car. This body of mine does not like being pregnant!!

The ladies with the cutest man in town, the only kid with us, but he was great!

Swinging with the ladies in old town

This is the best stuff!!!!!

2009-04-30T12:12:00.002-05:00

I was on the phone the other day and I was telling my sister how bored I was. We were talking about some good things to eat and she asked what I was craving lately. I told her I was on a yogurt kick and just could not get enough. She told me about this new frozen yogurt that was slow churned and had real active cultures. You know when you are pregnant your digestive system needs those active cultures. She told me vanilla was good but chocolate brownie was awesome. So, the other day while I was putting my order in at Safeway I added the chocolate brownie to the order. You can imagine my disappointment when the delivery guy got to my door and brought my groceries in and then showed me the items that were "out of stock". Some of the items like tomatoes and carrots I was really mad about but the frozen yogurt, nooooo!!!! A pregnant woman that can't get out of the house and had this on her mind, so sad. So, I told Jeff that he had to get it for me so he went after work. He got home late and I tried it and I can honestly say it was the best frozen yogurt I have ever had. Now I have it as my treat with bananas on top. I love it!! Try it, it is sooo good!

Baseball Game With Dad

2009-04-29T19:54:00.003-05:00

With me being on bedrest it was a great time for a daddy-daughter date. Alexa was so excited to go to a Nationals game with Dad and she even got to wear my pink Nationals hat. My kids have such big heads that they can wear our hats:) She and Dad got to split chicken and fries(they wre supposed to have nachos too, but somehow those ened up on the ground) that she said were yummy and they even got to have hot chocolate at the end because it was kind of a chilly night. She had so much fun just being with Dad and Dallin went to a friend's house for dinner. I was here alone just growing. Here are some cute pictures of their fun together.

She loved sitting with the mascot. Such a fun kid!!!!

Our supermodel

Jeff's firm has great seats so he hopes to take the kids to many more games this season. I am sad that I can't go. I love going to baseball games. Maybe we can go next year with 4 kids, ummm maybe not!

Just Here

2009-04-28T18:57:00.002-05:00

I tried to upload photos to blogger today and it wouldn't work. I had a great post about Easter planned, but to no avail. My kids really did look really cute so that will have to wait for another day. My day today was classic bedrest style. I had my groceries delivered from Safeway.com and then we had an exterminator come for some weird flying things. I had a time window for the groceries from 10-12 and a window for the exterminator from 12-2 and I had no problem waiting around all day. I have always hated waiting during windows of time, but now I have nothing better to do, so maybe I should have the cable guy come over tomorrow for fun:)

I can tell that I need to be right where I am though because I have felt a lot of pressure and I know it would be worse if I was walking around. These babies are so active! They are just jumping around in there and I told Jeff the other night that I didn't think I could get any bigger and to that he just laughed. I think I am about the same size as when I delivered Dallin and I still have a while to go. I have contemplated putting a picture of my belly here like a lot of other pregnant women, but I am not quite sure if that would be a good idea.

Kind of a boring update, but that's how bedrest goes.

No Excuses

2009-04-27T08:47:00.009-05:00

Okay, so here I sit while I incubate some babies and you say, why aren't you blogging everyday? I guess it is because I have three months of pictures saved on my camera and I have finally uploaded them onto my computer. I want to tell everyone about what we have been up to, but I think the reason I have not done it quite yet is because there is so much. So, to help me feel like I am not just recapping in one long booooring post I will just start with this weekend and kind of go backwards.

I have done this bedrest thing before so I thought this would be easier this time around, but I find myself just wanting to go for a run! My friends have made it easier to be lazy though. Everyday I have offers to take my kids to a fun place or over to play and they bring me groceries and call me on the phone to check on me. Hopefully with their help these babies will be born at a healthy weight and we will have no NICU stay. Now on to our weekend.

This weekend was a big one for our family. I haven't mentioned it on our blog before because I didn't want to jinx it but, WE BOUGHT OUR FIRST HOME!!!!! We closed on Friday and it is actually happening. We are renting back to the sellers until mid July so it doesn't feel quite real yet, but come July it will. We will be having some things done to the house before we move in and we are so excited to have a place that is all our own. We just hope we don't have any babies before we move in. Pictures will come later.

On Saturday our current neighborhood had a yard sale. We have moved so much that we really didn't have much to sell. (Read as mom is on bed rest and Dad is too busy being Dad and Mom to find things to sell at a yard sale.) Anyway, Jeff had the greatest idea. He said wouldn't it be fun if the kids sold donuts and OJ at the yard sale and made some money? He said, "they're cute, who won't buy from them." Well, it worked.

The set up, you can't read the sign, but it says Alexa and Dallin's dounuts and OJ $1.00 for both. Yes, donuts is spelled wrong but that added to the cuteness.

The first earnings What the earnings bought: a teeny, tiny littlest pet shop set.

More cars, we needed more you know

At the end of the yard sale the kids sold all of their donuts and some people even just bought OJ and gave them a dollar anyway. Our family ate 4 of the donuts out of the two dozen and they still made $23!!! We rounded up to 24 so it would be even. The kids figured out how much tithing they owed and then split the rest. Jeff was great and took them to target and they each spent their earnings. They were so proud of themselves and it was great family time. I even went down for a little while and sat in a chair. Alexa was dancing and singing "Donuts for sale" Way to go kids.

Jeff and I also enjoyed our last hurrah of a date on Saturday night. With me on bedrest we will not be part of our babysitting swap so this was our last one. We had take out and watched a movie, it was nice. I will be posting something everyday from now on so stay tuned:)

21 Weeks and already housebound

2009-04-20T12:55:00.002-05:00

We went in to our perinatologist today to measure the babies and to check my cervix. I have had issues in the past and since we are having twins they monitor me even more closely. We had a great ultrasound with two very active babies and I just think they are adorable. After the measurements were done they measured my cervix to see if there was any shortening going on. With Dallin my cervix started to shorten at about 23 weeks. The doctor measured and I could tell by her hestitation, and when she looked through my chart without saying anything that this couldn't be good news. The first thing she said was are you working? I said no I stay home. She said, well you need to stay home and not really do anything but sit from now on. No laundry, no grocery shopping, no fun outings:( I knew in my heart that this was coming, but I am kind of surprised that it came this early. So, here I sit. For now I am just thankful that it is not full bedrest and I can still walk around my house a little, but bummed that I won't be out enjoying spring and summer activities with my kids.

If you are here in the area please stop by to say hello and if not give me a call, I'll be here.

When will it end?

2009-04-10T07:50:00.003-05:00

I'm 20 weeks and I threw up last night. I thought the vomiting and anti-nausea medication was over, but apprently not:(

Some Thoughts Please

2009-04-04T12:07:00.002-05:00

It has been a long time. This very pregnant body of mine has just not felt like blogging, but I am slowly getting the bug back and hopefully I will even upload some photos soon, but for now I need some help. As you know we are having twins, a boy and a girl. We are having a tough time coming up with names. We thought we wanted to do names that had the same beginning letter, but as we try to pick we find one that we like and then can't find a name to match. What do you think, should we just pick two independent names, or should they have the same letter? If you have a good combo send it my way. Hopefully these babies have names when they are born because right now there is no frontrunner. Thanks for your input.

We will be Thinking PINK

2009-03-18T11:24:00.003-05:00

and BLUE this summer. Yep, that is right. We are having a boy and a girl! We could not be more pleased. Alexa will finally get her sister and Dallin will get his brother and our family will be balanced. The best news is that the babies are growing well and I am starting to feel a little better now that I am almost 17 weeks. I only dry heave now instead of throwing up, now if my nerve pain in my back would go away. It usually goes away the minute I give birth so only about 20 weeks of that to go:)

Double The Fun!

2009-03-04T11:31:00.004-05:00

Yep, I am pregnant and this time we get two for the price of one!!!!! We are so excited and happy to be welcoming two new children into our home. Here are some pictures of the twins. I framed the ultrasound pictures so we could tell the kids in a fun way. They are so excited to have two babies to take care of. Alexa is even getting used to the idea of having to change diapers, ( I told her that this was a requirement of a big sister.) Dallin is excited and tells me that the babies are cuddling in my tummy:) Love that kid. They will be such a great big sister and brother.

This is why my posts have been sporadic at best. I am always quite sick when I am pregnant but with two, it is really not fun. Alexa and Dallin have been so good. They understand that Mom has to sleep a lot and that throwing up is just a daily ritual around here. I am so thankful that they are so independent and hopefully I have not scarred them for life by letting them have so much free reign while I lie in my bed.

What matter is that these two are healthy. We had another ultrasound yesterday and they are growing and waving to us! We love them already and can't wait to see our new children.

We will welcome these two late this summer and we could not be more thrilled!!!

Seven

2009-02-23T20:56:00.005-05:00

I know every mom says this, but really??? I have a seven year old? Really? I can't believe my little girl is growing up. I told her I was going to put a brick on her head to keep her from growing anymore. She laughed and said mom that won't work. She's a smart one that Alexa. She is such a fun little girl. In the car the other night I was saying how big she is getting and she said "well, not as big as you mom. What year were you born?" I said 1978. She said, "wow that was a long time ago! Did they have electricity then?" I laughed so hard. I guess I remember when 30 was old. I told her that when she was 30 I would remind her that she thought that was old.

Alexa is such a sweet addition to our family and I can't imagine my life without her. She is truly the nicest person in the world and just loves to live. I love her more than words can express. Here are a few pictures of her special day.

We went to Alexa's favorite restaurant to celebrate her big day, it is also my and Jeff's favorite place too. If you ever come to visit, just know that we will be making a trip to Mike's.

They brought her this great dessert. The warm flourless chocolate waffle. Happy Brithday was written in chocolate. I couldn't get the picture right to get it. It was devoured as soon as she blew out the candle. I just love this picture. Dallin is 3 and a half years younger, but I know that he will be more like a big brother when it comes to protecting his sister. Love these two.

The presents before breakfast.I kept asking Alexa what she wanted for her birthday and she just kept saying a Ramona book. So, we got her one. She started reading it right away. We also got her 2 other books and she has already read 2 of the 3. She is our little book worm

The reaction when she read the card we got her and her present was that she was going to be taking ice skaiting lessons. Maybe she will be the next Kristi Yamaguchi!

Chocolate chip pancakes with a candle! A great birthday treat!

Alexa, I love you sooo much. I want to tell you seven things that I love about you.

1. You are the most generous person I know. If you receive a gift the first thing you think of is how you can share it with someone else. I love how truly unselfish you are.

2. You are so smart!! You have such a curious mind and you love to learn. You read books that I remember reading as a fourth grader. Keep up the good work kiddo.

3. You are so creative. You are always creating and finding a way to spice up our home. love it!

4. You are so loving. You constantly tell me that you love me and that I am the best mom in the world, which I love to hear.

5. I love how passionate you are especially about food. Your favorite food is definitely angel hair past with meat sauce and the whole time you are eating you are saying mmmmm it is so good. You are so fun!

6. You love the gospel. You want to be the best person you can be and you always want to learn more about your Heavenly Father.

7. You are the best big sister. Dallin always wants to be with you and you entertain him all the time. Such a great sister!

Alexa, I love you more than you will ever know and we are so lucky to have you in our family.

The February Happenings

2009-02-15T10:48:00.005-05:00

We have had quite a fun week. On Thursday Alexa had her 100th day of first grade. She was so excited because she got to be the leader of the parade. She said she had a great day counting to 100 and being in the spotlight. I was so proud of my little first grader.

On Friday night we went to Disney on Ice. The show is here in DC for a few days and Jeff's firm has a box at the Verizon Center. We went and watched in luxury and had yummy snacks and a great time. We decided not to tell the kids where we were going so it would be a surprise. As we got closer they were so excited to see the city all lit up. Dallin kept saying, "check it out" about every building he saw. The show was great and the kids had a great time.

Yesterday was Valentine's Day and I decided that we needed to have a special meal. We had one last year but this year was better. I made heart shaped pink french toast, pink hashbrowns, pink eggs and even pink milk. The food was yummy and the kids were so happy to have a celebration. I got them each a little gift and it was so fun to see them get so excited about $3.00 gifts. Jeff and I went on a relaxing date last night, just a quiet dinner with the two of us. It was a great day spent with the ones I love.

Welcome to Parenthood

2009-01-30T12:20:00.004-05:00

Last night was a typical Thursday night. We had dinner, waffles, hashbrowns, and fruit. Simple, easy and the kids were in heaven. After dinner we went upstairs and the kids started taking a bath. I began to clean up while they were both contained in the tub. After they were sufficiently wrinkled and pruney they decided to get out. We dried off and got jammies on and at about this time 7:30 Dad came home!! This may sound normal but Dad never gets home this early. The kids were thrilled to see Dad and so was I. Jeff was starving so I offered to go downstairs and make him a hot waffle and he was more than thankful to eat. The kids had by then gone downstairs to the kitchen table and were coloring and playing quietly. I went into the kitchen and got out the waffle batter and before I could turn the waffle iron on I heard a blood curdling scream coming from Dallin.

I ran into the dining room to see Dallin gasping for breath so he could scream. He said he had bonked his head. We have wood floors and one of the kids' blankets was lying on the floor next to the kids' craft table. Dallin had slipped on the blanket and hit his head on the corner of the little table. I picked him up from the right side and saw nothing so I just started to console him and calm him down. Jeff heard this all and ran downstairs. He came in and said there is blood! His ear is split wide open!! Dallin's left ear had a 3 cm gash in it and it was bleeding terribly. We immediately scrambled and jumped in the car and rushed to the emergency room. Dallin calmed down and asked if we could just stay home. I held him tight as we raced to the ER and he didn't make another peep.

We got to the ER at about 7:50 and they got us in pretty quickly. The doctor looked at it and said immediately that he would have to have stitches. I was so sad that our little guy was so hurt. Alexa was with us and when she heard that there would be stitches she wanted to go home. My good friend Rebecca was kind enough to come get her and put her to bed.

Meanwhile we stayed at the ER and waited to get the stitches. The doctor asked us if we thought we needed to put Dallin under. He is pretty good with shots and I said I think we can do it without sedating him. Dallin is so tough!!! They gave him about 8 shots in his ear and he did not even cry. The doctor said he had never seen such a tough kid. It took them a while to get all of the stitches in but he was a trooper. We would smile at him to help him feel better and he would grit his teeth and smile at us. We were so proud of him. When it was all said and done he had six stiches in his ear and two in his head. The table had sliced through his ear and then cut his head too. The doctor did say that he thought he would have a full recovery, but he also used the word *mangled to describe his ear. It was really gross!

Dallin got all fixed up and we were out of there by 10:30. He has to wear this head wrap to keep swelling down and to make sure that he doesn't get Cauliflower ear, which is disgusting, it is basically a really deformed ear. We are so sad that this happened, but he was so good and we know that he will be all better soon. I know that parenting means trips to the ER, so I guess this is our beginning. Hopefully we won't be visiting there again soon. I am so thankful Jeff was home! I think I would have been a total wreck if he weren't with me. Jeff finally got some dinner at about 10:45!

*We didn't get any pictures of the actual ear, it was really gross and we ran out the door so fast that we didn't have time to grab the camera.

The Most Exciting Night of her Life

2009-01-20T15:19:00.004-05:00

Yesterday as we were running errands we got a phone call from a friend who said they had an extra ticket to the kids' inaugural and who was going to be there?!!! Miley Cyrus and the Jonas Brothers!!!! Whoo hoo!! Alexa was so excited to go that when we got home she just got ready to go. She was ready to go an hour before her friend's mom came to pick her up. As we got her ready Jeff said kind of jokingly you should wear your wig. Yes we have two Hannah Montana wigs for various reasons. Anyway, she thought that was a great idea and she also thought it would be great if her friend wore the other one. When she got home last night she said it was awesome and she was so glad that she could go. It is kind of cool that she got to go. We didn't go downtown today though. There are about 3 million people there and it is in the teens outside. Alexa is only 6 years old, but she knew that she was involved in a part of history and was proud to be able to participate in the inauguration in some way. Although I voted a different way I hope that the next four years go well for our country. Enjoy our little Hannah!!Our little wannabeAlexa and her friend's mom. She wore the wig until she could give it to her daughter.

The pin she was so excited to get because it was part of history.

This kid can sleep anywhere

2009-01-20T15:13:00.002-05:00

As I posted before Dallin does not have a hard time falling asleep when he is tired. He just plops down wherever he feels is a good place and nods off. In this first one I had tried to forego the nap so we could put him to bed early on Christmas Eve, but he couldn't make it. In the next one he just snuggled up to Jeff on a Sunday afternoon and fell asleep. We have church at 3 now!!!!! I was going to have him sleep during church like usual but again he couldn't make it. I love this little sleeper.

Overheard at the Mall

2009-01-15T19:47:00.001-05:00

As we were walking to Gymboree today to redeem some gymbucks we walked past a Victoria's Secret. In the window there was a scantily clad mannequin wearing a bra and panties. Dallin looked at the window and said, "ooh that's a girl store. I like it, it is Beeautiful!!" I wish you could have heard his little voice. The way he said it was so funny, it was like a teenager ogling over a beautiful woman. What am I going to do with this three year old?!!!!

I Admit it

2009-01-05T22:12:00.002-05:00

It is 10:00 my kids are both asleep and nowhere in sight. Jeff is still working and I just finished watching an episode of Hannah Montana. Mock me all you want. I guess I crave the sitcoms of my youth, such as Family Ties, Growing Pains and the Cosby Show. Reality TV is boring and I love to have a happy ending where everyone makes good choices. My kids love the show and I guess I will come out of the closet and say I do too. Come on execs at the big three, bring back the family sitcom, laugh tracks and all!

Christmas Eve 2008

2008-12-30T17:49:00.005-05:00

Christmas Eve has always been my favorite part of Christmas. We had some friends over for a wonderful dinner complete with ham, rolls, twice baked potatoes, roasted asparagus and tons of yummy desserts. We had fun conversation and a wonderful time just being together. After dinner we had a nativity scene complete with baby Jesus. It was so cute how excited the kids were to act everything out. We had a great time celebrating and it was so much fun!!! The spreadMary before the nativityMary, Joseph and a ShepherdBaby Jesus being all wrapped up in swaddling clothes.Joseph,here is your new son!!Baby Jesus getting lots of kisses was not too enthusedSorry Brynn, but you were such a great donkey!!

I love my Dad
Not that much though

Such a cute face!!!

Having so much fun!!!

After everyone left we opened one gift and surprise it was new pjs!!! Can't wait for Santa to come!!

Christmas 2008

2008-12-30T17:32:00.004-05:00

We had a great Christmas this year. We must have all been really good because Santa left us lots of goodies. Again, it was so much fun to watch the kids faces light up as they saw their gifts and it was fun to watch them as they opened gifts from each other. I love Christmas so much with children. I just love how much magic is in our home the whole season. I hope you all had a great day too.Santa came!!!!Overwhelmed at how much she sees The blanket handmade by grandma!! Thanks I love it
The pajama pants made by grandma too. She is so thoughtful to make us homemade gifts.

The Cuttlebug from Grammy! Thanks for satisfying my need to craft.

Dad only hinted at this once and mom caught on!

This one is blurry but I love how excited Dallin is and seeing how interested Alexa was in what he had opened

Dallin getting a guitar lesson from Dad

I love my new bike!

It was a great Christmas!

National Christmas Tree

2008-12-30T14:41:00.002-05:00

Jeff has been working a ton. He usually does, but this week has been especially bad. He worked all weekend including Sunday until 1:30 am so after he worked again yesterday, we finally got to do a little family outing. We decided to go to see the National Christmas tree. It was beautiful. We started by going to the Capitol to see the Christmas tree but it was no longer lit, but that's okay we still had a ton of fun walking around and the kids got to play near the water there. The National tree was beautiful and there were a ton of little train villages around the base that the kids loved. There were also little trees decorated for every state. It was a fabulous family home evening activity and we plan on doing this every year as a new tradition.The beautiful tree The nativity, not the best one, but refreshing to see.

The Washington Monument from Capitol Hill

She was so excited to be out and to have her own purse. My friend Nancy made cupcake bags and I got one for Alexa for Christmas. She was so excited that we were going out and she had her own purse full of stuff. She is growing up so fast.

One of the train villages

My men watching the trains

The White House all lit up

Having a blast

Just a few Cute photos of the season

2008-12-24T13:48:00.011-05:00

We have been having a fun month so I thought I would post a recap of what we have been doing. If I don't do it now it will never get done because Christmas is tomorrow!!!! My kids are so excited and so am I. I can't wait to see their faces light up when they see what Santa has brought this year. I hope you all have a wonderful Christmas! We started of the month with Alexa receiving a ribbon at school for being respectful, responsible and kind. I am so proud of her and the great person she is becoming.
Just a cute one of my little guy

Dallin hugging his buddies after his preschool program. He loves his friends!
A cute one of all the boysI have shopped this kid out this month. We were getting stuff done and it was near nap time. Dallin was losing it, but I had to get some things. As we were leaving Safeway he just slumped over and fell asleep. A few days before he had not gotten a nap and fell asleep on our hardwood floor at 6 and slept until 7 the next morning. I love that kid. He needs his rest.The kids dressed up for church on Sunday. I just think they look adorable.

Mom's attempt at creativity

Cute face at the ward Christmas party

The primary sang Silent Night and Away in a Manger at the ward party

He loved Santa! This is the first time he wasn't scared

He's telling him he wants a Curious George. This was a new development so said toy had to be purchased today.

She loves this big guy!We made gingerbread houses and Alexa wrote us an invitation on her white board. She is too much fun.The finished product. This is a tradition of ours now that we have done it three years in a row.

Alexa had a traditions project at school and she talked about our gingerbread house making tradition. She did a great job.Here she is looking at her prompts for her oral presentation. She wrote it herself.

Growing up we always went out to breakfast on Christmas Eve. We have kept the tradition alive wherever we are. This morning we went to the Silver Diner. It was great. You can tell it was early.

The other cuties who joined us for breakfast.

Dallin had a school program where he sang, but the video of that wasn't great so I shot my own. The grandparents will probably be the only ones who want to see this, but it is very cute. Notice how he says Jingle Bell instead of bells and he wishes you a happy new ear.

Thanks for reading my marathon post.

All I Want For Christmas is my Two Front Teeth

2008-12-18T21:22:00.002-05:00

The Fang

The End Result

Alexa lost one of her top teeth about a month ago and the other one was only a little loose. Over the past month it has been getting looser and the last few weeks it has been sticking straight out of her mouth,pretty much grossing everyone out. This afternoon she showed me that she could turn it around in her mouth and I told her that she had to pull it out tonight. We were just hanging out tonight and she finally did it. She is so excited that now she can sing the song I have been telling her all about. Why is it that she always loses a tooth on the night that I don't have any cash and I am babysitting and Jeff is still at work? I hope I can scrounge a few dollars up before the morning. The tooth fairy really does have a tough job.

More photos

2008-12-06T16:58:00.002-05:00

Okay, I am sure you are sick of my photos, but I edited these again after talking to my teacher and they are much better. The black and white one was edited by my teacher, but I know how to do it now!!! Thanks for letting me showcase some of my newfound skills. I now love my camera instead of fearing it.

Edited photos

2008-12-04T22:19:00.002-05:00

Here are some of the photos that I have edited now. If you know photoshop and you have any tips for me that would be great. I am still working on my skills, but here are a few that I thought were pretty good.

It's been a while

2008-12-02T19:31:00.006-05:00

Okay, it has been a while and some people have been hounding me to post some photos, (read as Dad) Anyway, I have been taking a photography class and I have been kind of nervous to post any of my photos because I am just a beginner, but this past few weeks I have gotten some really good photos so here they are. We had a great Thanksgiving and we had so much fun decorating for Christmas. Most of these photos are straight out of my camera and I am working on my photoshop skills so I will post some after photos of those, but for now here is my work so far. Enjoy!!!!

Congrats Alexa!

2008-11-09T07:43:00.004-05:00

Alexa had her last soccer game yesterday and these were their trophies. I was having fun with my camera and thought I would share some cute pics of these bobblehead beauties. She had a great time and is already asking when the next season begins. Spring season will be here before we know it.

This one's for you Dad

2008-11-07T14:53:00.006-05:00

Remember when I used to look this determined when I was playing? It is so fun to watch Alexa play. She is really getting the hang of being more aggressive and going after the ball. She has scored a goal in all but one of her games so far and it seems like she gets better all the time. She loves to play. Who knows? I thought she would be more of a girly girl, but she is proving to be quite the soccer player. Our last game of the season is tomorrow and I know she will miss it. I have enjoyed being her coach again this season and it has been fun to watch her learn so much. I just love watching her play.

*click on the pictures to see the full effect of the tongue. She sticks her tongue out whenever she is focused. I know she is working hard if it is wagging.

Our new home

2008-11-03T15:28:00.002-05:00

I have had quite a few family members and friends say they want to see our new house so here it is. We got some new furniture and we love the set up of everything. We have three levels and it is so nice to have a place for everything. The kids love the basement with all of their toys in the right spots and I love that there are no toys on the main level and only a few in their rooms. Their rooms are our place to read and cuddle. Here are some pictures of our new bookcase, dining table, coffee table, and sofas. It's great to be settled. Enjoy the pics of our new home.

Halloween 2008

2008-11-03T14:58:00.007-05:00

We had a great Halloween!!! We attended a great trunk or treat complete with chili and cornbread, I made some yummy cornbread if I do say so myself. After some great games and treats we headed out to trick or treat from trunks. The kids had a blast and they were so glad that Dad could even be with us. As you can see Dallin was a little confused as to what he was exactly, but he was Curious George and Alexa was a HSM cheerleader. Later that week we had a parade at the preschool with Dallin's class the Bunnies and Alexa had a pumpkin day in her class. We don't celebrate Halloween in our county:( On Halloween we had another chili and cornbread feast and then it was out to get even more candy. Dallin was squawking like a monkey as we walked and Alexa was seen doing a cheer or two at homes for treats. We had a great time and can't wait to do it again next year. Especially Dallin he keeps asking to put on his monkey suit again. Pirate George
We love our Daddy

Hey, when do I get to fish?

The nonchalant George

George and his best friend Buzz aka Brandon

Out of focus but a cute one of our little monkey

She was so excited, she can't wait until the day she actually gets to be a "real live cheerleader." (Her words)

The gang after all the candy getting

The Halloween fam. I really do have hair it was just up in a tight bun, bad hair day.

I didn't catch this quite in time but he was just chillin in Dad's had eating a lollipop. Jeff put the hat on forward and Dallin said no I need it "the cool way" too cute.

The promised photos

2008-10-24T15:29:00.003-05:00

Okay , it has been a while since I posted some photos so I thought I would let you all see what we have been up to. We have been having so much fun together and doing lots of fun activities. These photos aren't in perfect order because I uploaded them wrong and blogger won't let me move them so I will just let you know what each one is. The last few months have been super busy but we have had a lot of fun.

p.s. Dallin really does have other shirts. I guess his blue crab one is my favorite. He really does wear more than that one shirt.

Here's Alexa enjoying the drive across the country again. Our kids really are such troopers.

We stopped in Charlotte on our way back east and saw our great friends the Jolley's. They fed us a delicious meal and we had a great time catching up and playing games. Thanks for letting us hang out with you. So Fun!!! Look at those sick white legs of mine.

The kids at the Grand ole Opry in Nashville

The Saint Louis Arch and Jeff's arm

Saying goodbye to the cousins as we left town. We were all crying in the car as we drove away, (even Jeff)

We went to NJ to see Katie and Braden and we took the fairy to Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty. It was a great trip.

The men in my life in front of Lady Liberty

The cuties

The Lady

My parents were there with us on our NJ/NYC trip and the kids were loving hanging with Grandma and Grandpa

Just thought this was adorable

This is such a cute picture, they were both having so much fun.

On the fairy to the statue

We stopped in Philadelphia on our way up to NJ. We got to see the Liberty Bell in person, really cool.

My dad was taking the picture. Don't you just love Dallin's expression, priceless!

Alexa's first day of 1st grade. She is growing up so fast!!!!!

Dallin's first day of preschool, he's ready to go. He loves it

Another cute one.

This kid is such a crack up

Where have you been?

2008-10-21T13:53:00.002-05:00

I am still here, I just haven't been in the blogging shall I say mood lately. Maybe it is the move, or the bigger house to take care of, or maybe it is the photography class that is kickin my tail. Whatever it is it is always hard to start when it has been so long because I don't know where to start. The kids are in full force at school now and we are settling into our routine with Jeff going back to work. The kids are so excited for Halloween this year. Alexa still can't decide exactly what she wants to be, (we have two costumes) and Dallin wants to be Curious George. I can't wait to dress them up this Friday for our ward trunk or treat and then again the following Friday for trick or treating in the neighborhood.

I have told Jeff and others that I am so amazed at the change of seasons that God has blessed us with. I love them all for different reasons and Fall is no exception. It is finally starting to feel like Fall here and it is so wonderful. It is beautiful here and I love all the fun that this time of year brings. Pumpkins adorn our home and I am going to make pumpkin chocolate chip cookies tonight. We are doing great and I am finally starting to feel settled now that it has been almost 2 months. I will add pictures later of first days of school and new furniture in our new home. Life here is good.

We Miss you Already

2008-09-29T07:25:00.002-05:00

Wow, I can't believe the two months have come and gone! Jeff finished his clerkship on the 8th of August and has been home with us ever since, but the day has come that life had to return to normal. Gone are the days of letting the kids wake us up and going on "dates" while the kids are in school. The kids have gotten so used to having Dad home that it was sort of a shock to see him getting ready to go this morning. We dropped Alexa off at the bus stop and then Jeff off at the train and now it is just me and Dallin at home. Of course, the day Jeff has to return to work is the day that Dallin is sick so it will be a long day at home for us. Jeff, I just want to tell you how wonderful the last two months have been. I don't think we have ever had this much time alone together or will we ever again until you retire. I loved it!!!!!! I loved having you here to help with whatever was going on. I loved going to the temple in the middle of the day, doing projects together, go shopping, to the pumpkin farm and especially the beach. I was actually crying this morning when you left. It had to happen sometime, but I miss you already. Have a great day and enjoy being a full fledged attorney.

p.s. keep the comments coming I dont think I have ever had that many comments on one post. I feel so popular!!!

Back to Life

2008-09-16T21:08:00.010-05:00

We have been here for two weeks now and i have yet to update my blog because we were out of commission for so long and now I just don't even know where to start. I guess I will start with the beach, the best vacation ever!!!! We went to the outer banks of North Carolina and it was heavenly. I am one of those people who doesn't really know how to relax so it took me a few days to get used to doing nothing but sit on the beach but boy when I got the hang of it, it was fun. I did get up every morning and go running but in my mind that is relaxing. Anyway we had so much fun and we can't wait to make it a Bailey family tradition. I will let the pictures show you how much fun we had.

We made it

2008-09-03T16:04:00.003-05:00

We are here, but our lives are in complete disarray. We don't have the internet (I am on a friend's computer) while I do my laundry at her house. Thanks Rebecca. There will be tons of pictures and updates to come from our move, the beach and Alexa's first day of first grade ,but it will have to wait until Verizon decides it it time for us to enter the world again.

Photo Ops

2008-08-14T18:46:00.005-05:00

I have not felt the bug to blog lately. I don't know what it is, maybe it is our impending move that is kind of stressing me out, but I finally uploaded some pictures and I finally feel like I can blog about the pics. Our year has ended and we are getting ready to move again, what else is new? We are really going to miss it here! We have been enjoying spending time with our family and with new friends that we have made here. We will really miss being so close to Deb and Lisa and their fun families. Good thing we are moving to a fun place so maybe they will come to visit.(hint, hint) While we have been here I have been serving as the Mia Maid advisor. In our church that is a leader of the 14 and 15 year old girls. It has been the funnest calling of my life and I have learned so much about myself. I thought this calling was going to be for the girls, but they have truly taught me about me and been an example to me. They threw me a going away party last night and I realized how much I am going to miss them all. I love them all and they will always be a part of me.

Me and Heather, the best leader to work with and the new YW president. I have loved working with her and getting to know her. We had so much in common and I know we were put together to serve for a reason.Me and my beautiful Mia Maids
Everyone. We have the best YW ever!!! I love you guys

Now on to some other pics of this crazy little family. Alexa has been asking for a long time for a bathrobe because "Fancy Nancy" has a bathrobe. I went to the Nordstrom sale and I saw this pink robe and knew that Alexa would be in heaven. She put it on the second I brought it home and she wears it everyday. When we get home from swimming or playing she puts it on. This photo shows what it was like the first few days, complete with slippers and if you zoom in you can see her toothbrush, the toothpaste and a comb in the pockets. She has such a fun imagination. She is having a great childhood.

We went to the zoo with all of our cousins and it was a great day. Dallin and Nora walked around like this for quite a while and later on Ella joined the mix. Dallin is always saying that Nora is his friend and that Ella is "so cute" I wish we could live by our cousins forever. I guess we will be back to visit soon.

Mamma Mia!!!!!

2008-08-01T16:47:00.004-05:00

SO MUCH FUN!!!!!! If you haven't see this movie grab your girlfriends and go tonight!!! I went with my sisters and my friend Shauna and we had such a great time. We were singing all of the songs and we wanted to get up to dance, but no one else was. Maybe we will the next time, because we are going to go again. It was fun and cute and sweet and the acting was great!! I am definitely buying this the day it comes out on DVD and so should you.

It was also so much fun to have a girl's night out. We chatted and had so much fun with each other. I am going to miss my sisters and Shauna so much when we have to leave which is in 18 days, can you believe that the year has gone by already. I am kind of freaking out right now because I feel like I need to be doing more to leave, but we are having such a fun summer I don't want to miss out on things. We are getting packers and movers, so we just have to have things organized, which they pretty much are, but that is just me, I stress easily. Maybe I should go see Mamma Mia again as a stress reliever. Thanks for such a great time girls.

Oh what do you do in the Summertime

2008-07-17T16:38:00.006-05:00

When all the world is green?

Do you go to the water park with your cousins?

do you blow huge bubbles with your sister and your mother?

Do you read tons of books on the couch?

Do you play a great Bingo game with your Mom?

do you poop in the potty 4 days in a row?!!!!!!!!!!

Is that what you do? So do I

(well, the poop in the potty thing is all Dallin)

Not pictured: Alexa learning to ride her bike without training wheels!!! You go girl!

Swimming in our pool everyday

Going to see $1 movies with cousins and friends

Going to the gym

playing with friends

staying up late

going on walks

eating treats

What do you do in the summertime?

A small victory

2008-07-15T13:16:00.002-05:00

After Friday I was thinking that this potty training thing was just about over. He had number one down, but number two was a different story. We went to the gym that morning so I could go to a spin class. The number two was a problem so I put him in a pull up just in case. I went to get ready for my spin class and just as it was starting they came and told me he needed to be changed. I had brought two changes of underwear so I went up and changed him. Halfway through the class they said he had gone again. I trudged back up the stairs, (the spin room is in the basement) and changed him again, washed out underwear and all that sort of stuff. Just as the spin class was ending they came and got me AGAIN!! I went upstairs to find it running down his leg and all over his shorts. Luckily I am a brilliant mom and had brought an extra pair of shorts, but we were all out of underwear so we high-tailed it out of the gym and went to Target to get more underwear, pull ups and plastic pants. I was tempted to buy diapers, but my ego didn't want to give up. Saturday he pooped once in his pants, Sunday he did it again, but yesterday he had a break through. My sister Deb was baby sitting while I was at the dentist again and she caught him being awfully still and quiet. She took him to the bathroom and he went!!! oh happy day!!! But today there was no prompting no quietly sitting, he just told me he needed to go and he went!! He got an M&M and one of his "Cars" cars back. We took them all away as incentives. He now has two. I am hoping that my dresser is free of "Cars" soon and that he finally figured out that it is no fun to sit in your own filth.

In other news. I went to the dentist to have my root canal crown filled in and for a cleaning. They filled the crown that had been previously drilled through to give me a root canal and it was off to see the hygienist. She was really thorough and rough and while she was cleaning she pulled out TWO fillings!!! So I was there for an extra hour and numb for the rest of the day, but the good news is that I don't have any new cavities and no root canals are needed. I have sparkling clean teeth and two new fillings that I didn't have to pay for. That is a small victory too I guess.

Fun Times as a Family

2008-07-09T16:17:00.003-05:00

The weekend started out with our dates and Alexa and Jeff LOVED the fireworks at the baseball game. I was jealous but they had a great time and Alexa even got on the big screen. As they were leaving she asked if she could take her pom-poms from her cheerleading dress up outfit(she wanted to wear the whole fit, but it was too riske to wear out of the house.) Jeff said that she was jumping up and down the whole game and finally in the ninth inning she got on the screen. This little lady loves to be the center of attention.

Friday morning we got up early and went to a pancake breakfast for church and it was great food and friends. We were up getting ready and Dallin was still sleeping, which is kind of strange for him, so we woke him up and dragged him out of the house in his cute 4th of July attire. The whole time at the pancake breakfast he just lied down on my lap. The motherly instinct in me kicked in and I knew something was wrong, but I was trying to ignore it because I wanted to have a fun day. So, after we were full of pancakes and orange juice we got in the car to go to a parade at this great park that has a ton of water fountains that the kids can run through. Just as we were pulling up to the parade route Dallin THREW UP!!! I am talking about TONS of throw up!!! We turned around with a very sad 6 year old and a green looking three year old, bummer.

We came home and I cleaned Dallin off, he is such a good sick kid. He just kept saying to me that he was messy and that he threw up on his shoes. I bathed him and turned on Cars and Jeff scrubbed the car. I went to the store and bought Gatorade and popsicles and geared up for a sick day at the house. After a little while Jeff took Alexa on some errands and I cleaned the whole house. Dallin watched another movie and didn't throw up and I cleaned even more. Then he took a nap and I took a nap. It turned out to be a great day after all. When Jeff and Alexa got home we went outside and blew bubbles and then we went to a park for games and fireworks. The kids had fun and had snow cones, but the fireworks were pretty sad and we got stuck in traffic for an hour and a half!!!!! We almost ran out of gas, but luckily we didn't and the kids fell asleep in the car.

Saturday Jeff went golfing and we went to the gym and then we headed over to our pool to swim. My friend Camille is also my sister's sister -in -law and her and her family were in town and they all came to swim. We had a great time!! After naps we went to another neighborhood celebration and then went out for pizza. We had such a great weekend as a family even with a little throw up setback(he never threw up again and has been fine ever since.) I love celebrating our great country and just enjoying each others company. I love my little family, they are my world and I love it!!!

Behold the power of the tic tac

2008-07-03T22:03:00.002-05:00

Tonight Jeff took Alexa to a baseball game complete with fireworks. We were lucky enough to recieve some free tickets, but we only got two so we decided to take the kids on their own dates. So, Dallin and I decided to go shopping. He really needs some new shirts so we set off to the outlet mall and had ourselves a very good time. While we were on errands this morning Dallin grabbed some tic tacs and asked if he could have them, so I bought them and he forgot about them. As we were leaving to go shopping he asked if he could have them. I put them in my purse and we were off. I know we were on a date, but he is three so he still had to be in a stroller. He asked for his treat so I gave them to him thinking they would be gone in two seconds flat, but he had a hard time getting them out so they kept him occupied for an hour and a half while we shopped. He never whined and he actually said he had fun shopping. We came home and had pizza for dinner and watched his favortie movie, "Cars". He gave me tons of kisses and kept saying "Lub you Mom."

We had such a relaxing time and it was so much fun to spend some time alone with my little man. He can be kind of a crazy kid at times, but spending some time with him tonight I realize he is usually just trying to get some attention. As we were watching the movie he was sitting on my lap and playing with all of his Cars as they appeared on the movie and I realized that this is what it is all about. Having time alone to really get to know my kids is something that I will treasure always. I love you bud, thanks for being my date.

My New Reality

2008-06-30T16:27:00.002-05:00

My friend Denae has an ongoing series on her blog about her approaching the age 30. Denae is one day older than me so naturally I love to read about what she is going through to see if I in fact have a 30 year old body. My 30th birthday is one month and 18 days away. The past few years I have been really looking forward to this day because I hate the looks from others who find out I have a 6 year old and I am still in my 20's. That is not that weird, but so many people these days wait to have kids that by the time their kids are 6 most are over 40. So anyway, I have been excited to be 30 to not feel like the teenage mom in some groups. I thought I was doing pretty good, but I am starting to feel the effects of getting older.

I am starting to notice wrinkles that weren't there before. I have always been a morning person, but it seems like if I get up at my 5am time more than twice a week I am just dead. I used to be able to do this at least 4 times a week and at night when Dallin is finally sleeping I just want to fall into bed.

Last year I pulled a muscle in my rear-end and I just can't shake it. It seems to come back with a vengeance every few months. I limp around like an old lady and make Jeff give me 2 hour massages (you really are a saint babe, Jeff is 6 weeks younger than me, just wait sweetie.) It is starting to feel better but man is that a painful injury. My sister has the same problem, maybe it's genetic to age this way.

I have had two root canals this past year and fillings that keep falling out, ON MY FRONT TEETH!!!! (I want veneers) I have TMJ, or to those who don't know what this is, I feel like I have a broken jaw sometimes.

I have always been someone who has bags under their eyes. I think this is genetic too. I try everything to alleviate this but my whole life they have been there and I think they are getting worse :(

I still want to be 30 and look forward to "growing up". We are going to buy our first home this year and we will finally be settling into a more permanent life, but it is hard to realize that your mind is still 18 but your body isn't. I am thankful that I don't have gray hair!!! I hope that doesn't come for a long time.

What are we going to do with him?!

2008-06-17T16:25:00.003-05:00

This may be the cutest face you have ever seen, but boy can this little guy get into some trouble. As a lot of my friends and family know Dallin is a very picky eater. I try to ignore this fact, but that is what it is a fact. The other night we were having a great fruit salad full of raspberries, pineapple and blueberries. I was sure that he would love to try one of these great fruits. I started with a raspberry which he did put in his mouth but would not swallow. After about 5 minutes he spit it out. We then tried pineapple and ultimately the dreaded blueberry. I was determined to make him at least try a piece of fruit, because I was sure he would love it if he just tried it. After many tears he finally got down from the table but did not eat the blueberry. This was on Sunday and we were going to have chocolate cake for dessert because it was Father's Day and that is Jeff's favorite dessert. I told him he could not have cake unless he ate one blueberry. The blueberry sat on the table for the rest of the night and stayed there. We all had cake and I was firm that he could not have cake. He put up a fight but I was strong. He finally forgot and we got ready for bed.

With daylight savings our kids go to bed later so we finally got them in bed around 9. Dallin kept getting up and dawdling. Around 9:45 we thought he was finally asleep and Jeff and I were asking each other what we were going to do with this child. We were only discussing this for a few minutes when Dallin came out of his room with chocolate cake all over his face. This little sneak had gotten up one last time without either of us knowing. How he did this I do not know since we live in a tiny apartment, but that is beside the point, he had gotten up on the counter stolen a cupcake and brought it back to his bed and eaten the whole thing and gotten crumbs everywhere!!!! He had a time out and a good cleaning and a talking to and Jeff and I began comisserating again, what are we going to do with him?!!!?

Happy Father's Day to all the Fathers in my life

2008-06-15T17:23:00.005-05:00

Today is a special day for our little family.It is Father's Day and we get to celebrate all of the Father's in our lives. I will start with their own father, my sweetheart who my kids get to call their wonderful daddy. I don't think my kids could love their daddy more than they do. They look for any excuse to be with him and if they had it their way he would be home and playing with them 24 hours a day. If they hear a garage door around dinner time they think it is their dad and if it isn't they are very disappointed. When he does get home they scream and run around and immediately ask him if he wants to play cars, hide and seek and go searching for wild rabbits. (There are a ton of those in CO) I couldn't ask for a kinder, gentler man for my kids to call Daddy. He really is the perfect guy and I love everything about him, but especially the way he fathers his children. As you can see in this picture my kids never get tired of being with him
whether it be on an adventure or just hanging out at home. Thanks hon for being the kind of man they can look up to and emulate.

Here is a photo of Alexa with my dad way back in 2004!!! I couldn't find a picture with just him and the kids. Dad, next time we are together I need you to step in front of the camera instead of always being behind it. I couldn't ask for a better dad! You were always there for me growing up whether it was for a soccer game, schoolwork or just telling me how proud you were of me. I truly look up to you and the way you always have a positive outlook on life. You are such a hard worker and you go after what you want and always taught your children to do the same. I love how sweet and wonderful you are with my kids. They always want to hang out with you and read a book or play silly games on your Mac. You truly are an amazing father and grandfather and we love you so much.
Another amazing father in our lives just left us a few days ago. Jeff's grandfather passed away this Friday and we are going to miss him so much. He was such a sweet man and we will never forget how wonderful he was. Papa Dee always had a smile and a hug for you as soon as he saw you. He wanted to know what you were up to and how he could help you along the way. I loved to watch him with his sweet wife Melba who we all call Nana and see how much he truly loved her. Papa Dee taught his children and his grandchildren how important it is to work in life. He took his own advice and was always working on something. He had a wonderful business, which he had to give up a few years ago, but that didn't stop him from working. He always had a project going in the yard and just last year when his health had already started to fail he built a beautiful deck in their backyard. Papa Dee also had a beautiful singing voice. I remember the first Easter after we got married we went to a sunrise devotional with Jeff's family and I was blown away at how powerful and grand his voice was. From then on everytime I hear Easter hymns I think of Papa Dee and how he was able to bring the Spirit into our lives. He had such great faith and knew that the Lord knew what he was doing and would bless his family as he saw fit. He lived life to the fullest and showed each and every person he knew that we were here on this earth for a purpose. We all have different missions, but we were to go out in this life and find out what our purpse was.

A few years ago I was living in Utah working through a certain trial of my own while at the same time Papa Dee was going through some health issues himself. Every time I saw him he had words of encouragement for me and he told me how beautiful I was and how he knew that I was strong enough to overcome this trial that had come to me. He would always give me a hug and tell me how much he loved me and how proud of me and Jeff he was.

A few weeks ago we had the opportunity to see him one last time. One morning I had the chance to sit alone with Papa Dee and hold his hand while he slept. He was asleep for about 20 minutes and every few minutes he would squeeze my hand and I knew he was glad that I was there. When he woke up he looked and me and said "Who is this beautiful woman holding my hand?" Even though he had had some major strokes he could still crack a joke and tell me that I was beautiful (He had had some strokes, but he knew who I was, he said this with a smile on his face.) Papa Dee was a wonderful husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather. You have left a legacy of hard-working, loving, talented people behind and we will miss your smiling face. We love you Papa Dee, Happy Father's Day!!!

Thank you to all the father's in my life I hope you have a great day.

Papa Dee's favortie photo that would make him smile even when smiling was almost impossible because of the strokes.

Alexa drew him a picture

He loved it!

Dallin was sharing his goldfish with Papa Dee, they were both having a ball. Here he is giving him a big hug, he loves him so much.

More cute pictures of Papa Dee

My Baby's Three!!!!

2008-06-11T22:36:00.003-05:00

These pictures aren't from today, but I am too tired from such a fun filled day to upload pictures. We had such a great day with our little birthday boy. This morning we went to play at the gym and then headed to get a donut at our favorite donut shop. After we had full tummies we headed over to the park to burn off the calories but it was too cold, go figure on June 11, so we went bowling. Dallin loves to bowl. He gets so excited when he gets even a few pins down. Then later tonight we had presents with Daddy and went out for ice cream. Dallin had such a fun day that it is now almost 10 and he is still up wanting to play with his new toys. ( pictures of the new toys will be forthcoming.) I want to tell Dallin how much he means to me. Some things that I love about Dallin in no particular order are:

1. His excitement for life. He always wants to know what is going on and he wants to be a part of it.

2. He has the cutest smile in the world.

3. He always says "thank you"

4. He is a great snuggler

5. He gives great kisses and hugs.

6. He is a great friend.

7. Our house if always a little more exciting with Dallin around.

8. He loves to be a total boy, he loves cars and airplanes and as of late pirates, arrghh!!

9. He loves to come into our room in the morning and snuggle with us until we get up to get him something to eat.

10. He loves to have his back scratched and if you do he will definitely hang out with you as long as you want him to.

11. He has a blast with his sister when he is not tormenting her.

12. He is such a good boy. He wants to do what is right and be kind to others.

We love you so much little guy and we are so glad that you are part of our family. It has been such a blessing to be your mother, you have taught me so much and I can't remember when you weren't part of my life. I love you, Happy Birthday!!!1

Girls Night Out

2008-06-09T15:42:00.006-05:00

This last week was pretty crazy with potty training and such and I felt the need to reconnect with my little girl. Alexa goes on tons of dates with her daddy and I thought it would be fun for us to spend some alone time together. I came up with this idea and then read two different blog posts about other people doing the same thing. I guess it was a good week to hang out with your kids one on one.

Here's the rundown of our date. Jeff came home and we hightailed it out of the house without the boys. Alexa loves to go out to eat at Chili's. Every time we pass by one she asks if we can go so that is where we went. She had pasta and corn on the cob. This little one loves corn on the cob so much. While we were sitting at dinner I asked her what she wanted to be when she grows up and she said "Mom, you know I want to be an artist." I said I just wanted to see if that was still what she wanted to do. She said of course. I asked her what kind of art she wanted to do and she said. "I want to do it all, and people can buy it." This girl really knows what she wants! She also knows that she has to sell it to make it a job, what a smartie. She really is a good artist and I can't wait to see her talent grow. I have a ton of artwork on my dresser that needs to be framed, that is how good she is.

After we finished our great dinner we headed over to Target to buy a fairy Barbie, which she is obsessed with right now and we bought a treat. She really wanted root beer barrels, but we couldn't find them so we got root beer Jelly Bellies, not quite the same but they were good. Then we headed home and chatted the whole way home. We had so much fun just being together. She is a crack up, she talked the whole time and she loved being out alone without a little brother hogging all the attention.

I loved having real alone time with her. I know I am home with her all day everyday, but it just isn't the same when there is laundry, dishes, cleaning, a little brother and all the other things in life around. She is growing up too fast and I just don't want to miss it. I hope to keep this up and have a girls night at least once a month. We might just go for a walk or to get an ice cream cone, but at least the girls will be together.

p.s. Alexa looks like she is winking in the photo, she has such a hard time keeping her eyes open with the flash.

Yeah!!!!!!!!!

2008-06-08T16:27:00.002-05:00

The day has come! We have bribed him and danced with him and sang songs. We have told him what big boys do and told him he had to be patient and it would work. Today was finally the day that our little guy actually went(#2) in the potty!!!!!!! We were all cheering and he got the car that was promised to him. We told him that if he went a few more times he would get another car and we are hoping that this is it and that he will be fully trained. He is fully trained in the (#1) department by the way. Way to go little guy. I recently saw an episode of John and Kate plus Eight in which she took a picture of her kids with their first (#2) victory. I thought I would spare us all that wonderful sight, but it truly was a great moment. I now have two kids fully potty trained, no more diapers in this house. Maybe it's time for another one.

Where is it?

2008-06-07T17:06:00.002-05:00

I for the life of me cannot find our little digital camera. I got an SLR camera for my birthday last year and I have loved taking photos with it, but sometimes it is so nice to just throw a little camera in your diaper bag for those little moments where a larger camera is just not practical. I have turned my whole house upside down looking for this little piece of technology. I miss pulling it out to capture my kids jumping into the pool or taking it to the baseball game(which we went to last night and I was being lazy and didn't want to babysit the SLR.) If you have seen my camera please let me know. I am really hoping that as we do our spring cleaning to move yet again we will finally find our little gem. For now I am just frustrated and mad that I cannot remember where I put it!!!!!

Potty Update: I'm a Big Kid Now!

2008-06-04T15:06:00.002-05:00

So, we have had quite the crazy past few days. Sunday was okay. We didn't have any accidents at church, but that is because Jeff and I took him to the bathroom about every 20 minutes. But, after church we went to some friends house for dinner and he had two accidents there, one involving poop. Monday was pretty good, but we had a seriously yucky poop accident at the gym. Yesterday he told Jeff once that he needed to go potty and I reminded him all day and it was okay. But, today has been great! He has told me twice that he needs to go and he has gone and he was dry the whole time we were at they gym!!! He hasn't gone poop yet today but I am hopeful that he will tell me and make it to the potty. This is the fifth day and I think he is getting the hang of it. He can take everything off himself and he is even washing his hands on his own. He is growing up right before my eyes. He still has to wear a pull-up at naptime and at bedtime, but this morning the pull up was only slightly wet. I can't believe he is actually doing it.

Dallin will be three next week and I think this is a perfect way to celebrate his three years as a part of our family. He is such a doll and he even does a potty dance when he goes. I will post the video when I figure it out. Here's to a diaper free home!!

Potty Training

2008-05-31T16:33:00.002-05:00

So, Dallin has been using the potty for a few weeks now so I thought it was time to officially train him. I took away the diapers bought underwear and consulted my sister-in-law about potty training in a day. I guess instead of just consulting my sister-in-law I should have bought the book! It was a long morning. We started at 11 so Jeff could take Alexa out on a daddydaughter date. By 3 I finally put him down for a nap after another accident. He did okay, but he is definitely not trained. He pooped twice in his underwear and had four tinkle accidents. He is excited when he goes, but not upset enough when he has an accident. I am determined to not go back to diapers though so we will just have a rough week I guess. He will get it, but I am exhausted! I did put him in a pull up for a nap, which I call naptime underwear. I don't want him to think he has any diapers anymore. I feel like a failure, but I guess we will just have to keep trying.

His biggest problem is not telling me when he needs to go. He just looks down at his accident. Send good vibes our way and cross your fingers that he gets it.

Family time and the end of the soccer season

2008-05-20T16:01:00.005-05:00

Katie and Braden came out a few weeks ago to bless their baby Preston Daniel here with both families. That weekend was also Alexa's last soccer game, so it was my last game to coach too. I love the game, but it was a lot harder to teach 6 year olds how to play than I thought it was. I am pretty glad that the season is over, but I will say that it was fun to see the girls improve. Notice that it was May 3 and we are wearing ski hats and I was wearing my ski gloves, just not in these pictures. With the wind chill it was probably in the 20's and it flurried later that day. We had so much fun hanging out with family and having fun, and now it is in the 80's no more ski gloves and hats hallelujah!

I got to give Alexa her trophy and congratulate her on a great season, she really did improve

What she really wanted was the cupcakes though, yum!
Dallin quite enjoyed the cupcakes too

The Golden Explorers, our team name, weird, but cute. We had a birthday party for my niece Ella. Neither she nor Dallin are looking at the camera, but they both looked so cute!

The cutest little 2 year old ever, she loves to be cheesy.
Ella loves Jeff and just climbed in his lap all weekend.
The baby of honor, what a cutie pie

I had to add this picture. Dallin has been such a good napper lately. He wears himself out playing and sometimes I even have to wake him up, he was just out cold and I had to wake him up to go somewhere :( My cute sweetheart

Another New Nephew!

2008-05-20T15:52:00.002-05:00

My brother and his wife had their little boy on Friday morning and he was a big one!!! Nathan Michael was 9 pounds 4 ounces and was 22 inches long. Wow!!! Carrie delivered him naturally too!!!!! Sorry for all of the exclamation points but Carrie is amazing. I am so excited to have another cute little nephew congrats Benjy and Carrie

A Special Thank You

2008-05-15T09:13:00.003-05:00

Jeff, I want to thank you for all you do for me on a daily basis, coming home every night to be such a great dad and husband. So many nights you also come home so I can leave to go to enrichment or young women's or baby showers, blah blah blah! Last night was no exception to your wonderfulness. I had a fever and chills and the kids were running around crazy. I had done all the laundry including washing sheets, but was too sick to fold anything or make beds. You got dinner for the kids and started in on the laundry, you folded it all and put it all away and made all the beds. You read stories to the kids, got them to bed and got me to bed, and this morning you were super quiet as not to wake me up. You got up early to go to court and all this without any complaints. What did I do to deserve such a great guy? Thank you for being you and for always putting me and the kids first in your busy life. I love you!!!!

p.s. I am feeling sooooo much better this morning, fever is gone.

Cutest Boy Ever

2008-05-02T08:29:00.002-05:00

I was putting my contacts in while still in my sweats and a pony tail in my hair when Dallin walks in and proudly says, "You look so nice Mom!" I love that little guy.

A Day of Showers

2008-05-01T23:27:00.003-05:00

Okay, it is May 1st and this is what it looked like outside. This was late in the day when a lot had already melted. We got about 6 inches, 6 inches!!!!!!!!!!! Happy May Day! We didn't let that dampen our spirits though. I had a chance to help throw Shauna a baby shower and it was so fun. Even though we started the day with snow we were able to end it with chocolate fondue, yummy! Thanks for having a baby Shauna so we could shower you with gifts.May 1st, I kid you not! Me and the cutest pregnant woman ever!!!
Straweberry topiary that I copied from Hillary, thanks for the idea. (okay, I stole it)
I also did a marshmallow topiary, I think they turned out pretty cute.

The whole spread, it's only a good shower if you have good food, it was a good shower.

Okay weather man, no more snow!

The Swap, a ballerina and a confused little boy

2008-04-29T13:40:00.003-05:00

I have been demoted!! I have been driving a Honda Pilot for about 3 years now and I love it. When we lived in Virginia it was pretty much essential. I had no less than three kids in my car most days and when Dallin was in a rear-facing car seat the Civic was just too hard to maneuver. Now that I only have my two kids everyday and Dallin takes up less space in the rear we have decided that for now I will be driving the Civic most days. We will keep the Pilot because hopefully someday we will add more to our brood. We made this decision because of gas prices. The Civic costs almost half to fill up and now that it isn't snowing 10 inches every other day I feel safe enough to drive a little car. So, I will miss getting everyone in without bending over, the bigger space, the larger trunk and the leather seats, but maybe our wallets will be padded a little more.

We did drive the Civic all over town this weekend and one place we did get to go was Alexa's ballet recital. She did great and she loved being in the spotlight. She was smiling for everyone and looking for us. She was sad that she couldn't see us, she said the audience was too dark, but we saw her and told her she did great. After the recital we gave her the sad flowers we bought her. When we showed up everyone had these great bouquets and we had nothing. We noticed they were selling flowers at the back of the auditorium so Jeff went to get something. This is all we got for $5. Next time we will buy something and bring it with us. After everything was over Alexa said so what are we doing next, swimming? Actually we are, but it is funny that this little girl is always looking for something extra to do. Soccer still has two games left. Saturdays are busy for this little family.

Enjoy the pictures of our ballerina and our little guy who loves having an older sister. He insisted on purple toes!

She didn't care that the bouquet was weak, she loved getting flowers from daddy.
graceful
dance with me

pretty purple toes
before the big show!!!

We miss you Emily!!!

2008-04-24T15:32:00.004-05:00

Okay, so it has been a while, I thought I was going to blog everyday, but who was I kidding? I have been so busy lately and I just haven't put blogging on the forefront, but I want to document all that we have been doing. First off I want to write about my great friend Emily and tell you to check out her blog here so that you can see all the pictures she took of our adventures together. Emily has been one of my greatest friends since we were in fourth grade. She is one of those friends that no matter how much time it has been since we saw each other last we can still talk till the wee hours of the morning, which we did. We had so much fun and we didn't even do anything that spectacular. My kids thought they had died and gone to heaven when Emily came to stay. They could talk about nothing else. They were even more excited when she broke out some Color Wonder surprises for them. They think she is the best, and so do I. Of course my camera's battery died when I went to take pictures so check out her post and Em, please know that I can't wait to do it again. The great friends after church. Thanks Em for making my lesson in Mia Maids wonderful!
Other things we have been up to. Shauna another great friend of mine has been spending a lot of time with us too and we can't get enough of her and adorable Jaden. We had a few dinners with them last week and a lot of playing and hanging out. We will be so sad when we move back to Virginia and we can't see them whenever we want.
I am such a mean mom! My kids have been asking for a dog for as long as I can remember and I refuse to give in. I DO NOT LIKE DOGS! whew! said it. They are smelly and jumpy and they smell people's crotches when they come to the door. Last week Alexa asked if we could go to the store and buy these dogs on a leash. I was a little hesitant because they were $8.99 but she said she wanted to buy it with her allowance. I was going to have to make up a little of the difference, but I said okay. When we got to the check out the lady told me I should buy more. I was confused since they were nine dollars. She whispered, they are 89 cents. I then became the best mom because I bought Dallin one too, his is a horse, and one for Jaden because the kids are obsessed with him. They treat them like dogs and they walk them and sleep with them. I hope this can hold on forever, because did I mention I DO NOT LIKE DOGS!

*I like other people's dogs when I don't have to walk them, feed them, bathe them, or train them.