k-m-o

Mercy

2012-02-09T17:54:00.004-07:00

So far being pregnant the 2nd time has been hard. I am so grateful to be pregnant, and happy that we didn't have to struggle for almost 2 years to get this baby like we did last time. But being a mom of a baby, while being pregnant, is some hard business. Luckily I haven't been AS sick as I was when I was pregnant with Oliver-it mostly hits the hardest at night when he is already in bed. But I have been EXHAUSTED. I think its a combo of having busy days and pregnancy hormones, but at times it just makes my whole body ache. Anyone know the feeling?

Getting ready in the morning is nearly impossible thanks to the exhaustion and trying to entertain a 10 month old baby. But this morning, Oli had mercy on me. Our house was stinky because a certain someone (BIRDIE) had an accident so I opened the door to let some fresh air in. Oli scooted over to the door in a flash to watch the birds, so I put his coat on and wrapped him up in a blanket. He watched the birds for 15 minutes without making a peep. Anyone who knows Oliver knows this is miracle. I was actually able to get ready all in one sitting.

Then, this afternoon after a stressful doctor appointment and a trip to Costco, I was feeling sick and tired. I turned on a show for Oliver, which he isn't interested in too much lately. I laid him in his carseat with a blanket, hoping to be able to just sit for one minute. He is STILL lounging in his carset, watch baby einstein, and its been almost an hour. I just looked over and he is asleep. hehe

These tiny moments in my life are such blessings that I had to acknowledge them on my blog. Thank you Mike, Oliver, and Heavenly Father for getting me through this rough patch.

friends

2012-02-02T14:11:00.004-07:00

I thought I would document all of Oliver's baby friends so he can look back and know that we weren't loners when he was little! Plus, how cute are photos of a bunch of babies?

Stella and Nora-our next door neighbors, and the greatest friends! We see them almost daily and Oli is learning how to be tough around two girls who are a little bigger and older than he is...

Leah B-as we like to call her. We used to babysit her while her mama went to school. We miss seeing her now! Lets play soon Leah & Emily!

2nd Cousins-Ty, Jada & Chloe. We had fun when we were all together, lets do it again! Jada and Oliver weren't sure about each other until they bonded over their hatred of driving in the car (and eating puffs apparently)

Whit-our other next door neighbor. We love playing with Whit because they get along so well. He is a sweetie and always so happy. We need more pictures together!!

And of course..

Cousins! Olivia, Carson, & Charlotte-Cars and Liv have adored Oli since birth and love to make him smile and laugh. Char didn't care much at first but now LOVES Oli, and he loves her back. They are funny together and will be life long friends!

Oli has lots more friends, but we haven't taken pictures with them-not sure why! There are tons of babies around his age in play group that he is finally starting to venture out and actually play with instead of wanting to be held the whole time. Most of them are boys, so we are in for some fun times in the next year or so when they all get bigger and more into each other.

We love our friends!

9 Months

2012-01-17T10:38:00.002-07:00

Dear Oliver-

I can't believe 9 months has gone by. You have been out of my belly as long as you were in it-except its gone by much faster. You are such an angel baby lately and I just can't get enough of you.

Here you are with the same bunny as a newborn and at 9 months. You have grown so much!

You are learning like crazy. You wave hi & bye now more consistently. You are copying sounds like crazy-you especially love to fake cough if you hear other people cough. You can hold your own bottle now and can feed yourself finger foods. You love to eat and like almost everything you have tried. You have a sense of adventure-you love being tossed, twisted, dropped, spun, or any other scary thing there is. You are going to be a major thrill seeker.

You are scooting now and are really fast. You love the entertainment center-turning the xbox off and on is your favorite thing to do. You also love pulling my favorite bowl down from the shelves. The dog's bowls of food and water also catch your eye. Looks like we are going to have to do some baby proofing! You are going to crawl any day now-you rock on your hands and knees but decide its not worth it since you are pretty fast at the scoot/army crawl thing.

You have a funny sense of humor but most of the time only give us little chuckles. You are hard to crack when it comes to a real belly laugh-just like your mama. You smile a lot though and are very happy. You like to be teased and tease back, your a playful little one. You love faces and always want to press your face against other people's faces. You still love blankets and binkies. You adore the dogs and think they are hilarious. They can get a good laugh out of you.

You weigh about 18 lbs now. You are chunking up again-yay! You wear size 6 month clothes for the most part, and a few days ago I finally put away the last of your 3 month outfits. It was a bitter-sweet day-you are growing up! You have your two front bottom teeth and man are they adorable. Your tongue is always out-it drives me nuts because your face is sooo rashy from the dry weather and all of your spit, but oh well!

I love you to the moon sweet Oliver. You mean everything to me and make me and Daddy so very happy.

Love,

Mama

Oliver & Olive

2012-01-12T08:48:00.004-07:00

Today Oliver tried an olive for the first time.

He was very interested in the olive and enjoyed its company.

This is good news, because there is an olive in my stomach.

It will be joining our family in August.

Luckily he/she will be bigger than an olive by then since, we wouldn't want Oliver eating it like he did today.

Christmas with a kid...

2012-01-02T17:19:00.004-07:00

is awesome! I had low expectations for Oliver's excitement level/noticing anything at all about Christmas, but he got excited for every gift he opened. I know he didn't truly get what was going on, but he smiled at each new toy he got.

We are lucky to have both families within a few blocks of each other, so we were able to go back and forth and see everyone. We definitely got spoiled this year-especially Oli.

Unfortunately, I wasn't feeling great on Christmas or Christmas Eve, so I didn't think to take many pictures. This is all I got-it was still dark outside so they aren't the best quality either.

2011-12-20T21:15:00.001-07:00

Hope you all have a wonderful holiday!

8 Months Old

2011-12-14T15:32:00.005-07:00

Dear Oliver-

Happy 8 months Mr. Manny! I am in awe of how much you grow every day. You are getting to be a big boy.

You are a pro at sitting now-its great. You pull yourself up to standing on a wooden toy that we have everytime you play with it. You still LOVE standing up! You always roll onto your tummy when I set you down. You seem to prefer it now, when you used to hate it. You want to move sooo bad but its not clicking yet. Instead you get in the push up position and hold it for a second. For some reason you love to do the "head bang." It seems like it would hurt your neck or head but you think its funny. Everyone else does too.

Changing you diaper is a whole new battle with you because you do not want to lay still on your back. 99% of the time I have to use my feet to pin you down while I put your diaper on. Naughty kid!

You just started to wave. When we say hi or bye bye and wave to you, you will wave back. You are a smartie! We used to put your sound machine in the corner of your crib but you keep changing it from white noise to music in the middle of the night, so we had to move it. Speaking of music, you love it. You've started to rock a little when music comes on. You love the lullaby version of "We Will Rock You" and when we played the real version for you the other day you loved it too.

You love to eat. You eat breakfast, lunch, and dinner on most days. I have yet to find something you don't like to eat. You are so good at chewing but still don't have any teeth. You have loved to eat crackers lately. You absolutely love your bottles. When you want one you say "ba ba" and whimper. You are very vocal and your favorite thing to say is "dada" no matter how much I try to get you to say "mama" Dad rubs it in but we all know your said mama first. Bath time is one of your favorite times. You like playing with the water coming out of the faucette, and are a big splasher now.

You play with your toys all day. You love the monkey on a ball toy that Nana gave you-you smile every time you see it. The baby nativity is also a big hit. You adore Bird and Buck and look for them when I ask where the doggies are. You still like to watch Baby Einstein and your favorite one right now is the different language one.

You adore the Christmas tree and lights, and I'm SO excited for you to experience your first Christmas!

Your two favorite things (besides me and Dad) are binkies and blankets. You love to snuggle anything soft, but especially love your aiden and anais blankets. You went through a phase when you didn't care too much about your binky, but right now you love it so much. You can put it in your mouth like a champ and lately have been putting in upside down so your bottom lip sticks out from under it. Its really funny.

Oli-life has lots of big things coming up for you. Stay the sweet, happy little boy you are-always! You are my everything!

Love,

Mama

Yellow Couch

2011-12-11T11:35:00.004-07:00

I love our bright yellow couch, but still have no idea what kind of throw pillows would work with it.

I found some amazing pillows from non other than Anthropologie...Santa, please??

Since these pillows are about 100 times over budget, does anyone have any suggestions for throw pillows?

Two Dogs and a Baby

2011-12-06T16:23:00.003-07:00

When we found out Oliver would be joining our family, I always knew we would keep our dogs. They were our babies-a part of our family. We loved the idea of our children growing up with dogs. Little did I know what a commitment this would be...

Before having a baby, dogs are easy. There are no chewed up baby socks, no teaching everyone to distinguish between baby and dog toys, no constant battle to keep dogs quiet during naps, no baby faces to prevent being licked, no nights when the baby FINALLY sleeps all night but the dogs are up barfing-trust me, the list goes on and on. I know as Oliver grows, new battles with the dogs will come up.

Yet, in spite of all of this, I still love them. I still want them (most of the time). They bring us joy. They bring Oliver entertainment. And they are unconditionally loving-even when I have been scolding them and giving them evil glances all day long. Believe it or not, they are worth all of the trouble.

I love you my little B's. Now please, no chewing the carpet today...

Annual Thankful Post

2011-11-20T11:37:00.006-07:00

It seems like every blog I read around this time of year has a post about what the author is thankful for. Its refreshing to read positive things on the internet and feel people's gratitude for what they have when the world today can be so negative and selfish. So, I thought I would contribute with what I am grateful for this year.

-My beliefs

-Family. This has to be my number one this year after the gospel. Family has a new meaning to me now that we brought a child into the world. I have a new appreciation and understanding of my parents. I can truly say there is nothing I would change about my up-bringing... they are the perfect parents. My in-laws are also wonderful and I'm so happy to be a part of their family. Both of our parents do SO much for us, I don't know how we would survive without them. I have the greatest sisters and brother. And my own small family of a husband, baby, and two dogs...its amazing how much I love them. I am so lucky!!

-The duplex. Sure, its not the biggest, nicest, fanciest home ever. But we love living here.

We can make it our own. It saves us financially. It has a lot of history (I lived here as a baby, my sister lived here with her kids, Mike's twin brother even lived here!) We have a roof over our heads, heat to keep us warm this chilly winter, a kitchen to make food. We are making so many memories here and it will be bitter sweet to leave someday. And did I mention we have amazing neighbors on both sides? Which brings me to my next things...

-Friends/neighborhood/ward. We love where we live!! To our east we have the Edwards. Nora is hilarious, baby Stella can brighten anyone's mood, and their parents are our some of our best friends ever. Not to mention they feed us 50% of the time. To the west we have the Jeppsons. We basically all grew up together. Jen and Paul are two of the most selfless people I have ever met. Their little boy Whit is amazingly darling. And Jen is a pediatric nurse...who has saved us multiple times from panicked trips to instacare (both for Oli and myself!). And we have friends on basically every street in the area who are all so wonderful. Oliver has so many friends to play with. We feel so blessed to have everyone around us for advice and help as we journeyed into first time parenthood.

-Our health. I am so grateful for a healthy body, a healthy husband, and a healthy child. I follow so many inspiring stories of families with a sick child, and I am always reminded to appreciate what I have-even on the hard days.

-Missionaries. Having a brother out on a mission has really changed my view on missionaries. I think I always appreciated what they do for the LDS church, but never truly understood what a sacrifice it is until my own family experienced it. These young men are amazing.

-Photographs & videos. I am so glad I have so many picture and videos of my life! I love looking back and reliving the memories, especially of when we were newlyweds, when I was pregnant, and of Oliver as a newborn. Its amazing that we have a physical item to bring back those wonderful emotions and experiences!

-Formula. From the time I wanted a baby, I wanted to breast feed for at least a year. I thought we were on track with that, until at Oli's 6 month appointment he hadn't gained any weight. I tried to boost my milk supply but Oliver was continually fussy and hungry, and my milk wasn't enough. We made the decision to go to formula. I was reluctant, feeling like I had failed my son. But then an amazing things happened. We went out to lunch on a Saturday. No crying. After lunch we went to a few stores in the mall. No crying. Then we went to the baby store for supplies. NO CRYING! It was amazing. Oliver is SO much happier because, well, he is getting enough calories and can focus on something besides being hungry all the time! I'm so grateful that there was another option when I couldn't give him everything he needed.

There are so many things that I am thankful for, but those things are at the top of my list right now. Everything I experience, own, and love is such a blessing.

What are you thankful for this year?

7 Months

2011-11-14T10:27:00.004-07:00

Dear Oliver-

Happy 7 month birthday little manny! We are now on the countdown to one year! Don't let it come up too fast ok? So much has changed this past month, for the better.

You had a rough go at the doctor for you 6 month check up, only gaining 1 ounces in two months! I thought you were getting taller and skinnier and I was right. We have made the switch to formula for feedings because I just wasn't giving you enough. I was really sad about this, and its still something I am adjusting to, but you weren't phased at all. You love bottles, although it took a few tries to find a formula you would take. You had a weight check one week after you started eating formula and you had gained 13 ounces!! My guess is your about 15 lbs by now. No wonder you were fussy all the time-you were starving! You continue to grow and gain weight like crazy, and we are both so much happier. You love to eat solids and eat 2 meals a day-breakfast and dinner, with random snacks in between.

You have changed so much this month you are like a different baby. You are so much happier and you don't cry much at all anymore. You are laughing a lot and smiling even more. You think its funny when you punch Dad or when I nibble on your arms and chin. You are getting to know your grandparents, aunts, uncles, and friends and are happy to see them. You are even more willing to let strangers hold you-this is a miracle because only a month ago you would scream if someone you didn't know held you! You like to give "kisses" which basically means pressing your open mouth against someone's face with all of your might. (pictured below) You adore your Dad even more every day and I think your bond with him is growing stronger now that he can feed you too. He can always get the biggest smiles out of you and is such an amazing dad. Even though you are more accepting of other people, you are still a total mama's boy. I love that about you!

You still hate tummy time, but anytime you are laying down you roll onto your tummy. I don't understand why, but oh well! You are pushing your knees up under your body but haven't scooted or crawled yet. Please give me a couple more months before you become mobile, ok?!? You are sitting by yourself now and only tip over occasionally, but when you do it really hurts your feelings and you make quite the sad face. Its cute, but hurts my heart a little bit. You love to sit and play with your toys, watch the dogs wrestle, or watch Baby Einstein. You are very curious about everything around you and try to grab anything within your reach. This makes meal times difficult because you get distracted trying to reach everything around you instead of focusing on the food I am trying to get into your mouth. Stinker!

You talk a lot and screech a lot, you like to hear yourself. You like to stand up and hold onto the furniture, and think you are really cool when you do it. You don't have any teeth yet, but are pretty good and chewing your snacks with your gums. You do a smile now where you stick your tongue out to a point and get a little smirk on your face. Its amazingly adorable. You are getting so good at napping-you usually take a morning and afternoon nap, both are 2-3 hours long. Your night time sleeping is still quite random, but you have been doing a lot better the past few days, sleeping through most nights.

Speaking of Birdie and Bucky, they love you and you love them. They always come to greet you in the morning or when we get home from being out. They run to your room when they hear you wake from naps. Anytime you are on the ground they have to be right next to you-and I mean RIGHT next to you...usually touching you. You reach for them and grab their beards, but they are so patient with you they just sit there. As hard as some days are with two naughty dogs and a baby, I am glad that you will grow up with dogs in your life, because Dad and I love them.

You are learning so much! You like to hold your bottle when you eat-with my help-and I think you will be able to hold your own bottle soon. You have started to use your pinchers (thumb and pointer finger) to pick up puffs, but you are still mastering that skill and don't do it when you don't feel like it. We sing "Here's the Ball for Baby" every day, and almost every time you put your finger up at the umbrella part to make the handle. Smart boy! You have started to actually look at books and listen to my voice when I read them to you, and that can entertain you for a really good stretch of time!

I feel like there is so much I am forgetting to write down about you right now! We LOVE this stage and are so excited to see how you change in the next few months. You mean everything to Dad and I-you are our world. Thank you for bringing us so much happiness.

I love you forever sweet boy!

-Mama

Sewing Desk

2011-11-10T10:47:00.004-07:00

I got this vanity from my sister a while back. I decided to remove the mirror and make it into a sewing desk-don't worry I saved the mirror for when we have a house with more room and I actually have the option of having a vanity AND a sewing desk. Anyway, I repainted and it made a world of difference! I think I wanna get new knobs...but I kinda like the original ones too. What do ya think? I also got the sewing chair for $10 and spray painted it white and recovered the cushion. I'm so happy with how this project turned out, and I got both the desk and chair for a little over $20! Score.

Before:

After:

Now to start sewing!

Little Hank

2011-11-08T15:54:00.005-07:00

Remember my bestie Heather? She is amazingly talented at everything, but recently opened up the etsy shop Little Hank.

If there are any baby boys in your life, you have to check it out. And just as a little preview, my favorite tie (which happens to be named the Little Oliver...)

Halloween Party 2011

2011-11-06T08:44:00.004-07:00

Its a little late but the week before Halloween, Heather and I threw a Halloween party. It was simple, but really fun-we had it in the cultural hall at our church. OF COURSE I forgot my camera, so please excuse the blurry iPhone pictures! There are lots, because all of the costumes were too great not to share.

It was a success! I wish I had thought to get pictures of the decorations, but oh well! Thanks to all of our friends and family who came to join the fun.

Happy Halloween

2011-10-31T11:16:00.003-06:00

The many disguises of Oliver...

As you can see, he loves to dress up...

Happy Halloween!!

No smiles

2011-10-19T22:39:00.003-06:00

The fabulous Christine Olson took Oliver's 6 month pictures, as well as a few family ones. Unfortunately Oli was not in the mood for a photo shoot the day these were taken and we didn't get a single one with a smile. Really. I am still a little bummed about it, but I still LOVE the pictures! What do ya think?

6 Months

2011-10-13T20:17:00.006-06:00

Sweet Oliver-

Happy 6 month birthday!! I knew this would be a bitter-sweet one, but its mostly sweet. You have been with us for half of a year and that is unbelievable. I think we are at a turning point and things are going to start changing really quickly-but please don't grow up too fast.

How did you go from this 6 months ago...

to this today...

You are still just a funny, nonchalant baby. Don't get me wrong, you are smiley, but are still so serious a lot of the time. You get more and more playful every day and are starting to giggle more freely-its my favorite sounds. You still love being outside, I'm a little worried for winter because it will be too cold to take you outside all the time. You are starting to talk a lot more, babbling a lot of the day. You mostly blow raspberries and do a gurgley snake hiss (Dad just described that for me) and make a cooing sound over and over again. You do the gurgley snake hiss when you are happy or really like something, its so funny. The other day someone asked me if you were sick because your voice is so raspy! (you weren't!)

You weigh about 14 lbs. Your hair is still scarce but starting to come in more and more and my final guess on the color is blonde. Who knows though! Your eyes are still blue but your dad and I think they're turning a bit more greenish/greyish. You are still in 3-6 month clothes but are starting to fit into a few of your 6 month outfits. You smell delicious all the time and I could smell you all day.

(notice his tiny hair sticking up in the picture below)

You can sit up sooo well- I am almost at the point where I feel ok letting you sit without me there to catch you, but you are still a little bit unstable. You roll onto your tummy every time you are laying down, but then get really mad because you still don't know how to roll back onto your back. I hope you learn soon!

You love the lullaby "Baby Mine" and when you fuss in the car I can turn it up and it makes you stop (most of the time). Speaking of car rides, you still don't love them but are much much better than before-I think the car seat helped a lot. Your bunny music box in your room also soothes you when you are upset at night. You were sleeping through the night but now have a little cold PLUS you're getting your bottom teeth, so its been a rough little while. You love to eat, and I am going to start feeding you solids more often. You have loved everything you have tried except green beans-you will eat them but don't enjoy them very much. You LOVE the swings at the park-you laugh every time you go on them.

I think you might be allergic to peaches. I gave you a taste of peach gelato the other day and your lips puffed up. Thankfully we have Jen next door who came to the rescue. I thought it was from the cream or eggs or coloring in the gelato, but then a few days later I gave you peach baby food and you got a rash on your face. No more peaches for you for a while!

You adore your Dad and are still a Mama's boy. I am cherishing it while it lasts because I know someday soon you won't need me like you do now. Chumley, you amaze me everyday. The last few days I have been frustrated and tired, and today was having a particularly rough day. I feel like I can't help you to feel better or satisfy your needs. Then this afternoon, I was on the verge of a melt down, and you looked into my eyes and gave me a little content smile. It made me happy because I know you love me and are a happy baby. Thanks for that.

I dreamed of you for so long Oli. I wished for you and prayed for you to come to our family. You are more than anything I ever dreamed, wished, and prayed for.

I love you forever.

Love,

Mama

The Many Faces of Oliver

2011-10-09T23:30:00.004-06:00

These pictures were all taken within a few seconds of each other.....we have quite the moody boy on our hands.

We are experiencing the world of teething and its not very fun. Any of the above faces that do not look pleasant..well, that is us most of the day and night.

PLEASE, CUTE LITTLE TEETH, BREAK THROUGH SOON!!

cousins

2011-10-01T12:01:00.005-06:00

Yesterday we finally got to meet my cousin Danielle's little girl, Jada. She is just 6 weeks younger than Oliver and we are excited for them to live in Utah now so they can become good friends! We love you guys, Jada you are a doll!

family

2011-09-28T14:59:00.003-06:00

Lately lots of things have been going through my mind about the future. Ours is an uncertain one with no guarantees, except one-which happens to be the most important of all. If we have faith in God and follow Him, everything will work out.

I have my little family by my side, making all of the uncertainties worth it.

I hope m & o know that they are my world and that not only do they make it worth it, but they make it wonderful.

Olivia

2011-09-25T23:23:00.003-06:00

My niece Olivia truly adores Mike. Its really cute.

Today we were with her and she and Mike took off in the backyard to play. When we got in the car to leave, Mike showed me a little gift Olivia had given him. Their conversation went something like this...

O- "Mike, I want you to have this because it looks like you."

M- "How about I just hold onto it since its yours?"

O- "Ok-you just hold onto it until we meet again..."

See the similarities??

Bye Bye Summer!

2011-09-24T08:54:00.003-06:00

Last night Oliver and I went to an outdoor movie party that some friends threw. It was fun to see how excited the little kids were to be staying up late and watching a movie. We watched the Disney Pixar shorts which I love! It was the perfect way to send the summer off and welcome in the fall.

Thanks to the Porter's for such a fun night!!

He's Mine

2011-09-23T09:54:00.001-06:00

How my fair, light haired/bald genes overpowered Mike's dark, full black hair genes is a mystery. But we think he's pretty cute...

5 Months

2011-09-13T18:51:00.004-06:00

Dear Oliver- (a.k.a. Oli, Olivander, Oli Boy, Bug, Big O, Baby O, Bugaboo, Stink Pot, Stink, Vander, Boo, Big Boy, Bumbo, Button)

Happy 5 months! You are getting so big I can hardly believe it. You are getting less fussy during the days-but if you are bugged you don't want to be distracted, it makes you even more mad. You are a back archer and do it when you are mad, sad, happy, content-all the time. You are super smiley but do a pouty lip before you smile most of the time. It's funny. You hair is still scarce and is a mystery-sometimes it looks blonde, sometimes like its coming in dark, and sometimes even red! We can't wait to see what you end up with! Your eyes are still blue but seem to be getting lighter every day. You are getting so chunky.

You are so funny because you are so serious. You just stare and people and things trying to figure them out. If you are not in the mood to smile, I can tickle you, throw you in the air, dance, sing, WHATEVER-and your expression does not change. You are so ticklish, I love it. You are a thrill seeker, you love being throw in the air, doing airplane on my feet, jumping in your jumper, and doing "one for the money" on the bed. You are also starting to want to sit up. If you are laying down you do a crunch trying to sit up. If you are leaning against something you do the same. Usually you end up tipping over onto your tummy and getting really bugged, but sometimes you sit up on your own for a good stretch of time!

You ADORE your dad and he adores you. He is so good at getting you calmed down-usually all it takes is a look from him and you are happy. You two will have so much fun together when you get a little older because he is still a kid at heart. Even though you love Dad, you are a mama's boy and I love that. Thanks for loving me!

You went through stranger anxiety pretty early and are slowly getting out of that phase. Standing up is still one of your favorite things to do-you have pretty good balance too and can stand on your own if you are leaning against the back of the couch.

You love to sit in your bumbo, high chair or bouncy seat and play with toys or watch Baby Einstein. You seriously love that show, its cute. You are a pro at grabbing things and most of them go directly to your mouth.

You always have a morning nap and an afternoon nap-but at random times. I am working on getting you on a more regular schedule but you aren't too fond of it. Your sleeping at night isn't consistent but most of the time you've been sleeping through the night (yay!). You no longer want your arms swaddled, so we just swaddle your bottom half. You have started eating solid foods and you love it and you are so good at it-the only problem is you constantly try to take the spoon out of my hand. You absolutely hate riding in the car and getting buckled into your car seat, so today we got you a convertible car seat and we hope that will make car rides easier.

You are learning at lot and I can tell. You recognize people, you are figuring out your body/movements and how to control them, you are playful and know when we are "getting you" or playing with you. You can anticipate things (like being tickled) and get excited for them. You love Birdie and Bucky-and watch their every move when we are in the backyard playing with them. When they go really crazy and chase and wrestle each other, you scream out (we aren't sure whether its a terrified scream or an excited scream because your expression doesn't change) You goo, squeal, coo, and blow raspberries all the time and you have such a raspy voice still-I love it to death and hope it stays raspy!!

There is so much about you right now that I never want to forget. I am enjoying this stage of your life so so much. Your personality is really coming out and I love it. You are my constant companion and I am so lucky to have you.

I love you forever-

Mama

Seriously?

2011-09-03T20:06:00.001-06:00

A series of letters.

2011-08-30T09:52:00.004-06:00

Dear American Airlines,

Why don't you allow one complimentary checked bag? Rip off.

Dear Fellow Passengers,

Thank you. Your sympatheic looks, smiles, and whispers of "its ok!" really helped me to relax. Thank you for being kind.

Dear Flight Attendants,

To the many of you who were sweet and helpful, you made my day. To those of you who were annoyed and rude, get a new job.

Dear Airport Security People,

Thanks for letting us cut the huge security line. Thanks for helping us get the strollers, carseats, diaper bags, shoes, and babies through security painlessly.

Dear Rental Car Guy,

Just because we are two young moms traveling with two young babies doesn't mean we are idiots. Sorry we didn't fall for your scam, you were just too sleazy and we sensed it.

Dear Cheesecake Waiter,

ITS 117 degrees outside. I'd really love some water that doesn't taste like Clorox Bleach. I promise, we were not just saying it tasted like soap to bother you, it really tasted like soap-ask the table next to us...Also, like the mean flight attendants, maybe you should get a new job.

Dear Last Chance,

Thanks for the awesome deals. I was really hoping to come away with some TOM wedges but I am still fully satisfied with what I found. Yay for new fall clothes!!! Please though, get your A.C. fixed stat.

Dear Shoppers at the Last Chance,

MIND YOUR OWN BUSINESS.

Dear Stella,

Stop being such an angel baby, you are making me green with envy and you are making Oliver look bad.

Dear Heather,

Wow. There were about 10 times when I had tears welling up in my eyes but you were there holding me together. Thank you for your patience, understanding, and help with everything. You are wonder woman, I swear. Sorry you had to listen to my screaming baby and we weren't able to shop as much as we'd hoped to be able to. I hope you had a little fun despite the chaos.

Dear Oliver,

As I sat on the stairs outside the Last Chance feeding you on that first day, I watched as women walked out with bags stuffed full of awesome clothes, shoes, and purses and I wanted to scream. I wanted those overflowing bags in my hands, but you were not allowing it. I was sure you were just tired and would be better the next few times we went back, but alas, it was not so. I'm sorry you were hot and bugged. I was too-its no fun. I love you so much and would rather have you in my arms than all of the clothes in the world-I am one lucky mama.

p.s. Thanks for being good on the airplane!

Dear Phoenix,

Why WHY are you so hot?? I am still recovering. You have awesome food and awesome shopping, both of which are hard to enjoy with an angry baby in tow. I will be back someday, but this time I will bring Mike to entertain the wee one.

Another Fun Trip

2011-08-21T20:49:00.003-06:00

Our little bug at the emporium-I crave their shakes daily

We spent another weekend up in Idaho with some of our friends. It was such a fun & relaxing trip-we just ate yummy food, did puzzles, played games, went into Jackson, the boy went shooting and we all just hung out! I didn't get any pictures of the whole group but there were some taken, so I will have to put them up when I get them. For now, here are some randoms.

Yummo

Jackson Hole

just hangin..

Lunch Date

2011-08-18T20:38:00.003-06:00

Today Oliver and I had a lunch date with Daddy-o (aka Mike) at Les Madeleines-a delicious bakery and cafe downtown.

Its so delicious and fresh and is my new favorite lunch place.

It helps that they have amazing desserts as well.

We miss Papa during the day so we love eating lunch together.

Oh, and Oliver's little friend is named Elrond...I think married to the biggest/cutest nerd of all time. Lucky me.

Dress Up

2011-08-16T19:12:00.003-06:00

"The Help" is one of my all time favorite books. I am really excited to see the movie-so is Birdie, she even dressed up.

Oliver wanted in on the action too but dressed up like a ninja instead.

Four Months Old

2011-08-11T18:02:00.002-06:00

Sweet Oliver-

Four months has gone by since you came into this world? Really?? Its hard to believe-it seems like you were just born, yet it also seems like you have been with us forever.

You are getting to be so much fun. You are full of smiles, giggles, silly faces, and loves. When you are sleepy you snuggle into me and I love it. You are getting much quicker at nursing (THANK YOU) and are starting to goof around while eating. You look up at me and stick your tongue out and smile-naughty but cute. Almost every time after you eat, I sit you up to burp and you just have a little smirk on your face-like you are saying "yes..I am full!" You are really ticklish under your arms, on your ribs, and on your thighs. Sometimes you get annoyed at me for tickling you though..sorry about that! When you smile really big you get bashful, put your head down, and turn away from us. Its hilarious but makes it hard to get a picture of you smiling. Your tongue is always out-always. You inherited this from your Dad-apparently he did the same thing when he was a baby.

You have a really raspy voice, its darling. You love to scream very high pitched, you say "a-goo" and are very proud of it, and you are starting to be much more vocal-babbling almost all day. You can handle a short tummy time before you freak out. You stick your butt into the air and do the superman move too. Lately you've been trying hard to roll over. It will come soon I think, and then you will never stop. I think you are going to be an early walker because you love to stand up. You have started to grab things and are figuring out how to bring those things to your mouth.

You hate-and I mean HATE-your car seat. Every time I set you in it and start to buckle you, you arch your back so that I can't buckle you in. Then when I put you into the car you basically scream the whole time. I really hope you get over this quick because car rides are kind of miserable.

You always have strings of my hair in your hands because you grab it and pull it all day long. It hurts-now I know why lots of moms cut their hair! Speaking of hair, you still don't have much and I swear it changes color every day. I think you will be blonde like me. This week I have been sleep training you. Its been rough, but I think its working because last night you slept from 8:30-7:15 without waking up, and now you go right now for naps in your crib. Keep it up-its heavenly. You love baths and showers.

You are a wild thing. You know what you want, when you want it, and how you want it. Sometimes when Daddy has you by himself you scream you head off. I recently found out that to make you stop, he holds you face out and runs around the house really fast. Its hilarious because it actually works. Going outside also calms you down-you are going to be an outdoors guy like your Dad. You are a thrill seeker and love when we raise you above our heads and drop you down.

You love songs, your bouncer & jumper, binky, your"ghost hippo", your doggies, your grandparents, aunts, and uncles, and especially love your mom and dad. And we love you so much too-more than we ever thought possible. Thank you for coming to us-we are so grateful to be your parents.

Love-

Mama

Cry it out..

2011-08-08T09:58:00.004-06:00

I'm listening to Oliver scream in his crib right now and trying not to break down myself. I know, I know-we all have to go through the "cry it out" phase with our babies...but does it have to be so hard? I feel like a horrible Mom listening to my (almost) 4-month old bawling and doing nothing about it.

Oliver does pretty well at night..doesn't cry too much. But nap times are a different story. He does not sleep unless I am holding him. And it pretty much has to be me. I don't know how he knows that someone else is holding him, but he wakes instantly if someone else takes him. I really can't spend 6-7 hours of my day holding him not moving, so the time has come for sleep training.

We don't go in to the pediatrician until he is about 4 1/2 months old so I am relying on friends and family's advice until then...hopefully we will be done with this phase by that time. He screams even harder when I go in there to rub his tummy & head, and tell him he's ok. Should I just not do that and let him cry until he falls asleep? How long is too long? Will he ever stop crying and fall asleep? Ahh!

Sorry for the vent post..just had to get it out there into the cyber world I guess. Wish me luck!

p.s. It also doesn't help that my dogs sit at the top of the stairs and look back and forth at me and the nursery like "um hello...why aren't you doing anything?"

hehe

2011-08-02T16:25:00.002-06:00

here's the proof mama! its pretty cute....

makeover

2011-07-30T12:16:00.004-06:00

The blog was in need of a makeover. I know pretty much only our header & the font colors have changed but hey-its enough for me! It feel much more "us".

If you feel so inclined, go ahead and grab a button to put on your blog-the code is just about half way down the page on the side.

Also-if you feel so inclined again, become a follower!

And a photo for your enjoyment...

{header made by Collected Blog, button made by young people in love}

Water Baby

2011-07-25T22:55:00.007-06:00

Oliver had his first "swim" a few days ago. Yes-I know it's not a real pool, but hey I think cold hose water is a bigger challenge to the little guy than an actual swimming pool-wouldn't you agree?

First went the toes...

No screaming, so in went the bum...

A little video of the whole shebang...of course the dogs were right there in the action-who's surprised?

And the aftermath...

He loved it (or didn't mind it?) hehe...!

3 Months

2011-07-20T21:33:00.004-06:00

Dear Oliver-

Happy 3 months! (and one week...yes I'm a week late) I can't believe how much you have changed in one short month-its flown by! This month has been so fun. You have such an expressive face! Your face and head are SO round, its hilarious. You have a little bit of hair growing in and to everyone's surprise it is blonde!! We all thought you would be a dark haired baby. Your eyes are still blue and I do not think they are going to change even though your Dad and I both have green eyes. You weigh about 12 pounds and are growing like a weed.

You were sleeping through the night (!!!) for about half of the month, and then the past few nights you have been up ALLLL NIGHT. I'm hoping tonight you will go back to your long stretches-it was heavenly. You love to smile all the time, not only with your mouth but with your eyes. You also love to cry-well, I don't think you love it, you just do it often. You aren't colicky, you just want to be entertained/eating at all times. You are going to be a handful!

You giggled for the first time and it was so sweet. I was with a friend at the time so had to hold back my emotions, but I wanted to burst out in tears. No one believes me because you haven't done it again-but you really laughed and H is my witness. You are so much more aware of things around you-its getting really fun. You have started mimicking "a-goo" noises, and think its funny when people say goo, boo, doo, etc. with their lips in a really round o.

Oli boy you make your Dad and I so so happy. Life has changed so much since you arrived 3 short months ago, but it has changed for the better. We are having so much fun watching you grow and learn! I love being your Mama, and I hope I'm doing an OK job.

Love you to the moon and back sweet thing.

-Mom

HAPPY BIRTHDAY

2011-07-18T09:55:00.002-06:00

Happy B-day Alex!

We love and miss the crap out of you and hope your 20th birthday is wonderful!!

4th in Idaho

2011-07-12T07:15:00.003-06:00

We spent almost a whole week in Driggs to celebrate the 4th of July. We invited our good friends up and it was a blast.

Oliver and Stella spent lots of time together (6 weeks apart)

Stella and Nora were the cutest things

Of course we took a million pictures of the boy

Bucky and Bird had fun and loved this yellow field

The fourth of july parade was a hit..

There were guns involved...(nora's gun is not a real gun so everyone relax..)

We had such a fun time. Thanks to the Taylors for a really fun week and to the Edwards for making the trek and hanging with us!

2011-07-09T09:19:00.004-06:00

We've been up to a lot the past few weeks and I have about a million pictures I want to post. But I am too tired. So for now, feast your eyes on this cute little beast.

photo courtesy of Christine Olson Photography

Isn't he a little stud?

Pain

2011-06-27T09:43:00.005-06:00

I'm not usually one to blog about religion but I don't know why. It is a huge part of my life and I feel now more than ever the great responsibility I have to share it with others. So here are my thoughts and my testimony concerning those thoughts...

Every Sunday I have an internal battle with myself-should I go to relief society?? Ever since graduating from young womens, its been a difficult meeting for me to attend. Being young trying to fit into a group of older women who are in different stages of life has been quite intimidating for me. Yesterday I made the decision to go-and what a wonderful decision. First we had an amazing lesson I felt to be written JUST for me and JUST for people close to me. After the lesson we sang the "Be Still My Soul" and as I sang with the women around me I felt a sense of belonging and unity. I was happy and honored to be a part of the organization of relief society. Thank you to all of the women I have been getting to know better since becoming a mother. You have changed relief society from a difficult and uncomfortable meeting to something I now look forward to.

The lesson was on Kent F. Richards conference talk "The Atonement Covers All Pain." Unfortunately I am not good with words, so here are a few of the quotes I loved. There are so many I had a hard time choosing, and I encourage you all to read the whole talk-as I know we all have trials in life.

"Healing blessings come in many ways, each suited to our individual needs, as known to Him who loves us best. Sometimes a ‘healing’ cures our illness or lifts our burden. But sometimes we are ‘healed’ by being given strength or understanding or patience to bear the burdens placed upon us.”All that will come may be “clasped in the arms of Jesus.”All souls can be healed by His power. All pain can be soothed. In Him, we can “find rest unto [our] souls.”Our mortal circumstances may not immediately change, but our pain, worry, suffering, and fear can be swallowed up in His peace and healing balm."

"Spiritual pain lies deep within our souls and can feel unquenchable, even as being racked with an 'inexpressible horror,' as Alma described.It comes from our sinful actions and lack of repentance. For this pain too there is a cure that is universal and absolute. It is from the Father, through the Son, and it is for each of us who is willing to do all that is necessary to repent. Christ said, “Will ye not now return unto me … and be converted, that I may heal you?”

"The Savior is not a silent observer. He Himself knows personally and infinitely the pain we face."

And my favorite:

“It will comfort us when we must wait in distress for the Savior’s promised relief that He knows, from experience, how to heal and help us. … And faith in that power will give us patience as we pray and work and wait for help. He could have known how to succor us simply by revelation, but He chose to learn by His own personal experience.”

People always say that Christ paid the ultimate price for us-and while I used to listen to these words I never truly "listened" and understood until yesterday's lesson. Christ CHOSE to suffer for us so he could have the understanding he needed to save us. How amazing and wonderful.

I challenge all of us who are going to difficult times to turn to the Lord. Do not let his suffering be in vain-take advantage of the blessing of the atonement. I know that Christ can and WILL ease your burden, comfort your soul, and even turn your sorrows into joy and all you have to do is ask. Try it-you won't be disappointed.

I also challenge all the women out there struggling with relief society to GO. I know I have missed out on so many of the moments like I had yesterday. The name "relief" society was given to this group of women for a reason. They can be a great relief in your life if you will let them. I only wish I would've realized this sooner.

What we've been up to...

2011-06-22T10:22:00.003-06:00

Being ADORABLE

Smiling

Standing up

going on walks with friends

lounging in the sun

poopin..

hiking with dad

crying and wearing big boy clothes

loving each other!

And the winner is.....

2011-06-18T12:48:00.006-06:00

LINDSEY.....who guessed closest at 10 lbs 4 oz!

Our little Oliver now weighs 10 lbs 8 oz!! We were shocked he has gained so much weight and thrilled he is a healthy baby. He went from 4th percentile in weight to 22nd percentile. The boy loves to eat.

Its actually kind of perfect that Lindsey won the giveaway because today is her birthday! Lindsey is such an amazing and strong person. I love her so much and wish her the best year of her life!

Linds won a gift card to get a shellac manicure at the Nailed salon in SLC. It is done with a special nail polish and does not chip, smudge, or peel. I recently got mine done and it has lasted 2 weeks so far and still looks perfect!

Congratulations Linds-I love you!

Happy.

2011-06-16T09:34:00.004-06:00

4 years ago today we were doing this...

What a wonderful 4 years it has been. I love you more each day! Happy Anniversary Miglet!

2 Months & a Giveaway

2011-06-14T00:04:00.011-06:00

Dear Oliver,

Are you REALLY 2 months old already?? You are getting sooo big! Your dad and I were looking at pictures today from the first months of your life and you have changed so much. You are such a joy in our lives. You are still waking up about every 3 hours at night to eat, and even though I'm exhausted I love to cuddle you in the quiet night time.

Every day you get better at holding your head up-you can pretty much do it now. You are starting to smile a lot, but only at mama, dad, birdie, and bucky. You noticed yourself in the mirror today for the first time and smiled at yourself-it was the cutest thing I have ever seen. We are still trying to figure out your food allergies, but even though something is up in your little body you are always a happy, easy baby. Thank you for that.

You love your daddy and look for him when he comes into the room. You are starting to follow us around with your eyes when we walk around, and if we don't pay enough attention to you, you're sure to let us know. You LOVE sitting and standing up-its hilarious! I think you are starting to find your voice because you will scream a really high pitched scream and then look surprised. You also do this fake cry/whine thing when you want attention, its sooo cute and funny.

You are really good at holding your weight, and if you are fussing, you stop and get really happy the minute we help you stand. You love looking at your toys on the car seat and toy mobile thing from ikea. You are still in newborn clothes but they are starting to burst at the seams so we need to move you into the next size up! You are going to be a chunk, I know it. I love watching you grow up, but try to slow down a little!

Happy 2 months Oli boy!! I love you, I love you, I love you!!!!

-Mama

**GIVEAWAY**

Oliver has his two month check up today and I am so excited to see how much weight he has gained! So excited in fact that I'm doing a contest about it. To enter, guess how much Oliver will weigh at his appointment today. Whoever is closest will win, and the prize is awesome so you really wanna win...You have until Friday to enter! Winner will be announced Saturday.

Here is a picture of him when he was a newborn and now to compare.

Then: 5 lbs 15 oz.-size premie diaper

Now: ?? size 1 diaper

Blessing Day

2011-06-06T09:40:00.013-06:00

Oliver was blessed yesterday and it was such a great day! Mike gave him such a beautiful blessing, and Oliver was a little angel through all of church. Afterwards we had a small get-together at the Taylor's house with our close friends and family. Thanks to everyone who came to support us-we love you!!

Newborns

2011-05-26T11:13:00.005-06:00

Here are some of Oliver's newborn photos. We LOVE them!!

Photos by Sharon Johnson

M.A.T.

2011-05-16T16:15:00.004-06:00

I am sorry this is late-I seem to do everything a day or so late these days, but...

HAPPY BIRTHDAY MIKE!

You are an incredible man, brother, uncle, friend, and father.

Oliver and I are so lucky to have you and we love you so so much.

As a tribute to Mike, I thought I would share the hilarious things he has been saying at 3:00 am while up with the baby.

Me: "Mike, I think one of the dogs just threw up"

Mike hurries and jumps up "OK, I'll do it, I'll do it! Where is the tube??"

Me: "What tube?"

Mike: "The feeding tube!"

(this one hurts my heart a little even though its funny-just because it is sad we had to deal with a feeding tube at all!)

Oliver eats, I lay him back down and come back to bed. As I look over, Mike sits up suddenly and says "Are you wearing a onsie??" as he tries to take his shirt off.

Another time after I had put Oliver back to bed and come into the room, I asked him a question and he said "What is a wood-nymph attracted to?"

Early one morning when we were all waking up, I wanted Mike to watch something cute Oliver was doing. He turned to watch and was instantly asleep again. I poked him and said "you weren't watching!" and he responded "oh, the time travelers wife thing??"

We love you Mike/Daddy, and are grateful for your help and humor in hard, wee hours of the night.

Love,

Katie & Oliver

On The Night You Were Born

2011-05-14T20:29:00.001-06:00

On the night you were born,

The moon smiled with such wonder

That the stars peeked in to see you

And the night wind whispered,

“Life will never be the same.”

Because there had never been anyone like you…ever in the world.

So enchanted with you were the wind and the rain

That they whispered the sound of your wonderful name.

It sailed through the farmland

High on the breeze…

Over the ocean…

And through the trees…

Until everyone heard it

And everyone knew

Of the one and only ever you.

Not once had there been such eyes,

Such a nose,

Such silly, wiggly, wonderful toes.

When the polar bears heard,

They danced until dawn.

From faraway places,

The geese flew home.

The moon stayed up until

Morning next day.

And none of the ladybugs flew away.

So whenever you doubt just how special you are

And you wonder who loves you, how much and how far,

Listen for geese honking high in the sky.

(They’re singing a song to remember you by.)

Or notice the bears asleep at the zoo.

(It’s because they’ve been dancing all night for you!)

Or drift off to sleep to the sound of the wind.

(Listen closely…it’s whispering your name again!)

If the moon stays up until morning one day,

Or a ladybug lands and decides to stay,

Or a little bird sits at your window awhile,

It’s because they’re all hoping to see you smile…

For never before in story or rhyme

(not even once upon a time)

Has the world ever known a you, my friend,

And it never will, not ever again…

Heaven blew every trumpet

And played every horn

On the wonderful, marvelous

Night you were born.

Happy one month birthday to our sweet Oliver! Life is wonderful with you in it.

{photos by Sharon Johnson & words from my favorite book}

KATIE

2011-05-08T13:06:00.003-06:00

Katie-

I have been in awe these past four weeks at how capable and prepared you were to be a mother. Your ability to calm and care for Oliver, having never had a baby before, is amazing, it is natural for you. You are loving, patient, and gentle, and you've sacrificed so much for him. I know that in your hands our son will grow to be a great, well rounded man, who loves his mommy. You are incredible Katie and beautiful. Happy first mothers day. I love you, I love you, forever I will love you.

-Mike

Mothers Day

2011-05-08T07:49:00.009-06:00

To become a mother is a magical moment. For me it was a moment I had been hoping for for quite some time. It was everything I imagined and more, and I can't wait to do it again. It is surreal that I am included in Mothers Day this year! I am so grateful for it and know its a great responsibility-but I am so ready to take it on. I already love being a mom, its the best experience in the world and I know it just gets better.

Thanks to my mother-in-law Missy. You are such a thoughtful, sweet woman and mother. You do so much for our little family and I appreciate it so much! You raised an amazing son who is now an amazing father, and I know he learned from his mom-thank you!

Linds-my big sister. You are a wonderful mother, always thinking of your children first. You are so happy to serve them and make them feel special and I hope to be that kind of mother to Oliver. Thanks for your example-be strong and remember you are AMAZING!

Mom-thank you for being an example of exactly the kind of mom I want to be. You are full of wisdom, experience, and advice and I know I can always count on you for anything. You are selfless and are willing to do anything for your children's happiness. You are funny, sweet, supportive, down to earth, smart, and so fun to be around. You shaped me into the person I am today, and I would not change a thing about you. I love you more than I will ever be able to express-thank you for all you do!

HAPPY MOTHERS DAY TO ALL THE WONDERFUL MOTHERS IN MY LIFE!

May 2nd

2011-05-02T18:52:00.004-06:00

My sweet niece was born one year ago today. She is the spunkiest, sweetest baby in the world and means so much to Mike and I. Happy 1st birthday sweet thing, we love you!!

We have been waiting for May 2 for 9 months. My phone dinged today and the notification said "baby boy due!" I can't believe I am technically supposed to be pregnant right now!! I was always expecting to go over our due date, and never thought I would have him before. Our baby boy has been here for almost 3 weeks and they have been some of the craziest weeks of our lives. He is a sweet, mellow baby and during the day is so easy! Sleeping is a different story...but we are working on it. We are so so thankful that Oliver is here already, and even more thankful that after a little bit of a rough start, he is a normal, healthy baby. We love him more than I imagined possible-he is such a joy!

Easter Beast

2011-04-24T20:48:00.004-06:00

Happy Easter!

Oliver's Nursery

2011-04-20T17:47:00.006-06:00

Drum roll please....we are HOME! We got home today, everyone is adjusting great. Oliver is such a mellow baby. We hope he keeps it up.

Here is Oliver's room. The pictures aren't the best quality because his room is in the basement and there is not very good light in there. We love how it turned out. The drawings were done by Carson and Olivia-they are one of our very favorite baby gifts. Also, the shelf needs a little more decorating, but I can't figure out what else to do!

2011-04-19T18:00:00.002-06:00

Its looking like we will be heading home very, very soon. Someone is really happy about that:

There is nothing better.

New Addition

2011-04-14T10:48:00.008-06:00

Oliver Anton Taylor

Born April 13, 2011

1:32 a.m.

5 lbs 15 oz.

19" long

The "story":

On Tuesday morning I made a trip up to the hospital for a stress test because I hadn't felt the baby move since the night before, and I just woke up not feeling great-a little nausea, and a really deep ache in my back (which we later found out was because Oliver was posterior) The baby looked great so I went home to try and get some rest since I felt sick. Mike got home from school and we decided to run out to babies r us to grab a few last minute things for my hospital bag (good thing we did because they have been life savers!) We went home and starting eating some dinner, and suddenly at around 6:00 my water broke-it was so weird! I called my midwife and she told me to go right in because I didn't have my Strep B test results back yet and she didn't want me or the baby to get an infection. We went in and all the nurses were waiting eagerly for us because we were the only patients that night. Everything seemed to happen really fast after we were checked in-I was in labor for a little over 7 hours total. It was the most amazing night of my life and things went pretty smoothly with labor and delivery. Mike was such a perfect labor coach and support and I love him more than ever.

Right after he came out they put him skin to skin on my chest for a few seconds then took him away because he was having labored breathing. Mike went with him to the NICU while I got fixed up, and he has been there ever since.

There are a few things going on with baby Oliver but the gist of it is he was 3 weeks early and his lungs weren't quite ready to be in the world. He can't eat orally so he has a little feeding tube, and he is on oxygen constantly-we are hoping he will be weaned off of it because then I can start trying to nurse. I am headed home tomorrow morning and it will be really hard to leave him here but he is in really good hands and I know he will be home soon-the doctor says hopefully in about a week. In the mean time we still have plenty to do to get ready for him to come home, and we will be visiting him daily-hopefully multiple times!

We are amazed at this little life we created. His personality has always been a little fiesty and naughty, and he really wanted to keep that reputation up. He is so sweet at the same time. He loves to be with his parents, and we had a chance to hold him today finally! His stats were the best they have ever been when we were holding him and he was so content. It was so great.

Well I am not very good at telling stories nicely, so stay tuned for a post by Mike with his perspective of the whole experience. He is an amazing writer so prepare to be blown away. In the mean time, here are a few pictures of our little guy.

not the ideal place to see his name on something, but it was still really fun to see-he is a real person!!

finally holding him again

Mike's first time holding his son-he is amazing with Oliver and is the best Dad already.

WE LOVE YOU SOOOOOO MUCH OLIVER AND CAN'T WAIT FOR YOU TO COME HOME!

Maternity Pics

2011-04-11T16:07:00.005-06:00

The talented Bri took some maternity photos for us about a week ago. She sent over a little sneak peak and I love them all! I can't wait to see the rest! Thanks SO much Bri!

A Look Back..

2011-04-07T08:14:00.004-06:00

Baby, please come out looking just like this:

I guess you can have a little bit of this in you too:

What are your guesses? Will our baby be bald like me or born a dark, hairy monkey like Mike??

How To Be Me

2011-04-04T22:05:00.005-06:00

This evening we went down to Provo to see the Carl Bloch art exhibit. The paintings were amazing and it was nice to have time to relax and take minute to reflect upon the amazing talent of the artist, the Savior, and life in general. Going to this exhibit and hearing about recent events that show the fragility of life has caused me to really think a lot about what my life is all about.

Trying to figure out who you REALLY are is a hard thing. Lately-and actually for a lot of my life-I have found that my personality is very dependant on who I am around. Its part of human nature, I believe, to act differently around people depending on your level of comfort, but I think lately for me its been more for the “benefit” of the other person rather than myself. Maybe it’s the changes and insecurities that come with being pregnant, but I feel myself trying too hard to match my likes, dislikes, interests, and just my general “self” with whomever I am with. In other, more simple words, I am not being ME.

Some people may have different feelings about different things, but that doesn't mean you should pretend to feel the same way when you truly don’t. We are all good enough the way we are to be loved the way we are. I find myself being ashamed of certain things I like or embarrassed of how I am living my life when I am around people who are living differently than me. My goal for this year 2011 is to stand up for what I believe, love, and enjoy-even the small things.

So who am I?

I am a wife. I adore my husband. I am not ashamed that my husband and I like to play video games together(everything in moderation!). I wouldn’t ever sing to my husband in front of people but if I was talented enough, I would learn “You and I” on the ukelele and sing it for him. Our marriage is just that-OUR marriage, and there is not another one in the world like it. Its not always sunny skies and rainbows but we are so happy together and it gets us through every challenge we may face. I love his creative mind and reading his beautiful words.

My dogs are my kids-I know people say once the baby comes I will love him more than them but sometimes I wonder... I love them so much! I am a mother-some may not agree as my baby isn’t born yet, but I have been nurturing him and helping him grow and survive for the past 9 months, so I believe I am a mother. And I am very excited & ready & anxious for him to be born-and will no longer feel like an annoyance when I talk about it! I am proud that I have chosen to be a stay at home mom. I don’t think its any less important or accomplishing than being a doctor. In fact-its more important.

I love to learn and will accomplish my goal of getting my bachelors when the time is right for ME. I love to read and I love to feel feminine-wear dresses, pretty earrings & necklaces, colorful clothes. I love getting dressed up for weddings and showers and actually really enjoy attending them. They are uplifting to me-everyone is happy and excited about life, and in the world today that is rare to come by. I love to dance even though its embarrassing and I am no good at it. I even love to slow dance-whats so cheesy about that??? Simple, fresh, and modern is the style I love in everything. If we had enough money I would always have fresh flowers in my house-no to impress people but because they make me really happy-and also Birdie is obsessed with them and its cute. I love good photography, reading blogs & blogging, and looking on the internet for fun and pretty things.

I am not ashamed that I don’t drink and never have had a drop. I'm not ashamed that I try not to swear, break the Sabbath, and try my best to attend all my church meetings. I feel so much better when I do. But I am also not ashamed that I am not perfect and sometimes falter at these things. I don’t think I am better than anyone else-EVER, infact its usually the opposite. I think that everyone is equal and can find good in everyone I know.

I am quiet-not shy-and need a little time to warm up to people. I think everything is funny but it takes a lot to get me to really laugh-I also have to be in just the right mood- so if you show me something and I only chuckle, just know I really do think its funny! I LOVE to travel and can’t wait until we can do more of it and go all around the world, but for now I am content and happy staying where I am.

I love my in-laws and was so lucky to marry into such a great family. I love my family more than anything, and feel blessed to have them. They made me who I am. My siblings are beautiful inside and out. My Dad such a generous man, and my Mom amazes me everyday-she is my best friend. I am not perfect, my life is not perfect, but I think it’s a good one.

I don’t know why I am writing this to be honest-I just want the world to know who I really am, and I want the people in the world to be themselves and not conform just for someone else’s approval. God made us all the way we are with a specific purpose in mind. ALL OF US-its really amazing. My talents and blessings may not be obvious things like playing an instrument or being an amazing artist, but they are no less important, and neither are yours.

And that is me.

stuff...

2011-03-28T23:40:00.004-06:00

I am feeling a bit overwhelmed looking at all the supposed "baby stuff" we still need. I thought we were pretty much set to go and then I looked at my registry and found all of these other things I feel like we can't live without! Since we are low on space I have been trying to keep things to a minimum, but even with just the basics I feel like the baby's room is overflowing already, and he isn't even here yet!

SO...

I'm calling out to all mothers...what did you find you loved/needed/was a waste of space? I have the main things we need (car seat, crib, stroller, etc.) but what else is worth the precious money and space?

I have the really gross booger sucker-uper (thanks Ash!) that I've heard so many people love, and I have some Aden & Anais swaddling blankets (thanks Mom, Dad, & Santa)-so any tips besides those two items would be greatly appreciated!

Now off to get some "sleep"- and no one tell me it will get worse once the baby gets here, I already know...

Showers!

2011-03-26T22:18:00.008-06:00

I have had 2 showers so far and we have been spoiled rotten! Its been fun having them not only to get things we need for the baby, but also it means we are getting close to meeting this little guy!

A couple weeks ago my best friends from high school threw me a shower. I was a terrible photographer that day and I'm sad I didn't get pictures of all the decorations, but trust me when I say it was SO cute! I loved everything I got and everything they did. Thanks Kayley, Jackie & Ashley!! Here are the few pictures I did take:

Me with the hosts

Everyone who came-THANK YOU!

The yummy food-you could put whatever you wanted on the yogurt, it was sooo good and such a good idea!

Today my sweet sister and mom threw me a family shower. It was so perfect, and there were so many little details that were so sweet! They had all my favorite foods and such darling decorations. Thanks to everyone who brought food or helped out at all-I know there were a lot of you! And special thanks to Lindsey and my Mom-I LOVE YOU GUYS and appreciate everything you did so so so much! Here are the pics:

The delicious food-there was also Chick-fil-a chicken strips (my request) that arrived shortly after this picture was taken. Everyone laughed but they were a huge hit!

Look at the sock monkey in the wreath!! I love it

Sweet banner-the shower theme was "Beautiful Boy"

Linds made these CD's with lullabyes on them that are so sweet for favors, and everyone wrote down advice on these cards! So creative.

We got so much stuff that we really needed and I was able to buy our last major thing-a car seat-with gift cards I got! Woo! We are so excited for this baby and I am starting to feel much more prepared for him to come! Don't worry Mom, I will make him wait until after April 22.

Craft, 32 Week Bump, & Nursery Sneak Peak

2011-03-06T20:46:00.007-07:00

Today I made these darling wreaths with my sister-in-law Milly and mother-in-law Missy. It was fun and I love how they turned out-we made it so all of the ribbon and decorations on the wreath can be switched out for any holiday/occasion. I think I'll keep it up all the time and just have it blank when there is nothing going on. Currently its decorated for Easter.

Here is it without anything on it

Here it is decorated for Easter

Here is a picture of me at 32 weeks. I am really starting to hate being in pictures-I feel like I look way more tired than I actually feel, and people think I am ready to have the baby when really I have 2 months to go. Arghh!! Here's to being huge and ugly when your pregnant!!

We got SO much done this weekend in the nursery and I am so excited about it! I don't want to post a picture just yet because I have some shelves that I need to decorate and we need a changing pad & cover, so you'll have to wait a few weeks to see the final reveal, but here is a sneak peak...

Bathroom Before & Afters

2011-03-03T14:45:00.006-07:00

Well we finally got the bathroom done, thanks to a TON of help from my parents. You guys are the best, seriously. And thanks too Mike for all your hard work too. It looks amazing and looking back on the before pictures I am disgusted we had it like that for so long. It was a long, difficult process but 150% worth it in the end. Here are the horrifying before's and beautiful afters.

BEFORE

AFTER

BEFORE

AFTER

Also, our little Buckminster turned 1 year old yesterday! We love you boy, happy birthday!

Bucky when we first got him-May 2010

excited birthday boy

AND we are so excited for the Edwards family-their baby girl Stella was born yesterday(yes, she will share a birthday with Buck-so lucky!) She is beautiful and we are so excited for her and Don Carlos to meet. We love you guys, congratulations!

IDAHOOO

2011-02-27T22:03:00.005-07:00

Sorry for the obnoxious title. We had a fun weekend up in Idaho for the boys annual LCF trip. This year was fun because there were more wives! The weekend consisted of skiing, eating, games, and playing in the snow. Thanks to everyone who came and to Doran and Missy for letting us raid your cabin and feeding us. We took lots of random pictures but none of them are very good...here are a couple.

A few of us learned to play Bang, which is a way sweet card game. We were up until almost 5:00 am playing, it was too addicting to go to sleep! Somehow I survived the next day without too many side-effects from the late night (morning) Here is part of the crew, minus Mike who's taking the picture. (I look humungo)

The boys all got these fake teeth and Bucky wanted in on the action:

Rocker

2011-02-22T20:00:00.003-07:00

I am so excited because today I found out that our glider chair will be here sometime next week-a couple weeks earlier than expected! Once that gets here we can hang pictures and finish everything up in the nursery finally.

It was kind of hard picking a chair. We looked everywhere! I day dreamed about the Eames Lounge Chair because it looks so dang comfy-but decided it was a better fit for an office or living room and was also a bit out of our price range (being poor students and all).

We couldn't find just the right thing (right style, color, size, and price) and then my father-in-law offered to get us a glider from one of the companies he orders furniture from. We are SOO grateful and so excited to see it!

On another note, in just 2 (hopefully) short months our baby boy will be here and I couldn't figure out what to do about a breast pump. I really want Mike to be able to feed the boy sometimes, and also I wanted something that could give me a small supply if I have a sitter or if I go anywhere I wouldn't be able to nurse. I've heard from friends and family that an electric pump can be a pain, and if I'm not working full time I just don't feel like I need such a high tech pump. (p.s. thank you family and friends for your advice about EVERYTHING baby. You know who you are, but I feel like I know nothing about what I'll need or want, so I really am so grateful..)

Anyway, I decided to go with a manual pump, the Medela Harmony. It is about $200 cheaper than the double electric pumps I was looking at before, plus its more realistic for my needs. I'll be purchasing the pump from csn.com and reviewing it after I've used it a few times. Thanks to CSN for this opportunity!

Man Cold

2011-02-21T20:21:00.003-07:00

Poor Michael has come down with a cold and I can't stop laughing at the truth of this commercial.

Bundled and Ready

2011-02-18T15:19:00.002-07:00

We're headed up to Idaho for the weekend. The doggies are so excited they've been wearing their sweaters for the past two days. See ya next week!

Valentines Day

2011-02-16T18:57:00.002-07:00

I know its a little late but Happy Valentines Day! We spent our evening at home, together-the last time with just the two of us. Weird!! Hope you all had a great love day!

Major Nesting??

2011-02-11T14:49:00.001-07:00

**Update: Well, the grouting process was not as easy as I thought it would be. The old grout it so old are hard that its taking FOREVER to get it all out. We may be without a shower for the next few days while we try to get it done....boooo!! Thanks soooo much to Aaron for all of your help-and Heather for letting us borrow him for a couple hours. I think once we get the old stuff out the re-grouting should be a piece of cake. As for our bedroom-I'm so happy with how its turned out! I forgot about one major thing-window coverings-and I just can't reveal it until those get done because it is gonna make such a difference. Hopefully I will have time this week to make the IKEA trip I really need to do.

I never truly believed that you really go through a nesting phase, I just thought pregnant women used it as an excuse to re-decorate and buy new things. I now believe it. There have been major projects on my list of things to do since we moved into this duplex almost 2 years ago and I had not done any of them! I decided to start at 7 months pregnant. Either way, things are finally getting done around here-much to Mike’s annoyance. Don’t get me wrong, he will help me with all the projects, but lets just say I enjoy it much more than he does. The finished product is always worth it though, right Mig??

Our bedroom is basically done-I have my twin worker bees installing the headboard right now and I can’t wait to get home and see it! Then there are just a few finishing touches to do tonight while Mike is at his Xbox extravaganza with his best bud, and I will get some pictures on here. I can’t wait to show you the horrible befores and much better afters. Get excited!

Our big project tomorrow is re-grouting the shower tile. I CANT WAIT to get it done, seriously. Just wait until the before and after pictures of that one too.. You will see why I am so anxious to get it done. We will see how it goes….

On a random note, I got my eye brows waxed the other day and the lady asked what we were naming our baby, and I TOLD HER-just to try it out I guess! I figured I don’t know her, she doesn’t know me, so why not? Ha! I know its no biggie to all of you but it was just really fun to tell someone and it made it much more real for me.

Check back tomorrow evening or Sunday for the before and afters-this is the only time you will hear me say this but I can’t wait for this weekend to be over!

Third Trimester!!

2011-02-09T08:33:00.004-07:00

We are now in the 3rd trimester! Its crazy to think I have been pregnant for 7 months. I'm hoping February will go faster than January-time was flying, and now after the holidays its seeming to stand still. I feel like I don't have much to blog about actually. I'm getting bigger everyday and so is the baby. No one warned me about the horrible charlie horses that wake you up at night when your pregnant-did anyone else get those?

In other news, I am really wishing I had a new sewing machine so that I could learn how to make clothes. I'd love to start sewing outfits for the boy, and then after he is born and I get my normal body back I'd love to sew for myself too.

Also, I went and played Bonko with Heather last night and I really want to start a SLC group. Bonko is a dice game, there would be dinner & prizes, and it would be once a month. If anyone is interested let me know! If we get a big enough group we could start it this month! I know that doesn't explain it very well, but just trust me its fun.

Well I apologize this post is so lame, but I will make up for it with a few pictures! Enjoy.

28 weeks

Baby C in my favorite hat

Mike's favorite baby outfit so far

My family-love Bucky's closed eyes

Weekend Plans

2011-01-28T09:54:00.004-07:00

I must be in my "nesting" phase because I have about 3 million projects that I want to complete before May. They have been swirling in my head making me crazy so I decided to write them down.

1-Complete the nursery: paint closet & get shelving, get a rug, hang artwork, get a changing pad & cover, organize drawers.

2-Re-grout bathroom tile, and maybe even add some decorations & pops of color.

3-Clean out laundry room: get it organized and cleaned up, maybe even looking good?? (for those of you who haven't seen our laundry room, it is just a dungeon room that is really gross)

4-Fix carpet: our dogs found a tiny string of carpet one day when we were gone and went to town (demons). Luckily it is an easy fix and we have extra carpet, its just actually getting around to doing it.

5-Re-do our bedroom: get an actual blanket system that is functional and pretty, paint some furniture pieces, get window coverings, and finish up little details.

6-Get a new sofa: this is a long shot but its just always in my head. Ours is a 20+ year old sleeper sofa that used to be at the Taylor's cabin. I dont mind the look of it but it sheds feathers like crazy and is totally sunken in in the middle and its quite uncomfortable.... We're grateful to have it though!

This week I have been extra focused on our room. A while back Bri did a room inspiration board for me and I am finally getting around to doing it. I changed the colors a bit because I found these pillows for the bed that I LOVE. But we are using most of her ideas and I hope everything comes together nicely. I am really praying this gets done within the next week. Most of the really big projects are going to get done tomorrow, then it will just be the details to pull it all together. I can't wait to finally have an adult room rather than one that looks like a bachelor pad! Here is a little sneak peak of the room's color scheme:

There are a couple pops of surprise color that I HOPE turn out as cool as I'm picturing them.

We will see, wish us luck!

Double Digits

2011-01-25T16:35:00.005-07:00

We are down to the double digit numbers now! 97 days still seems like quite a long time so we won't begin the countdown, but hey, its progress! I continue to grow daily and the baby is moving constantly-looks like we have a little mover on our hands.

So as all of you who have been pregnant know, you get asked the same questions over and over (which I am for sure guilty of doing myself). Anyway I thought I would cover a few here.

1. How are you feeling?

Right now I feel pretty good! I was quite sick for about 22 weeks but it finally started to fade. I still have my moments but its nothing compared to what it used to be. I'm trying to enjoy this time before I get extremelly uncomfortable-hopefully it will last for as long as possible!

2. When are you due?

I am due May 2. May will be quite the busy month for us! We have Mike, Paul, Carson, Charlotte, and my birthdays all in May, plus the boy's.

3. Do you have a name?

We finally decided on a name-it was stressful and I never thought we would find one we liked, and one day this name suddenly popped into my head and we both love it. We decided to keep it a secret though-something has to be a surprise when he is born right?? And no, I will not tell you the letter it starts with.

4. Who is your doctor/where are you delivering?

After much research and experience, I decided to go with a midwife rather than an OBGYN. The doctor I was going to before this pregnancy retired which I was so sad about-I really liked him and he delievered my little brother, some cousins, and my niece Olivia. But I absolutely LOVE my midwife. I wanted this pregnancy and birth to be a very personal experience and I just didn't get that feeling from the OB's. I also didn't feel comfortable with home birth/birthing center situations, so I found a midwife who delivers in hospitals. I love that I get both aspects that I was hoping for in a pregnancy and birth.

5. Are you going to do natural labor?

I am surprised how often I get this! I seriously don't know though-I go back and forth. I have no idea what to expect when it comes to labor pains, other than it really hurts. I would love to try and deliver naturally, but I also believe in modern medicine, so if it becomes too much, I will have an epidural (I'm a baby and I'm more scared of that than the actual pain from contractions!) Anyway, I don't want to be miserable on my baby's birthday, so whatever I have to do to prevent that is what I will do I guess!

6. What are you gonna do in the nursery?

We love how this room is turning out!! For the crib and dresser we wanted sleek and simple, and didn't want them to cost a fortune. We ended up going with some options from IKEA that I really love. The rest is a work in progress right now. Hopefully we can get it wrapped up in a few weeks, but lets just say once you see the room you won't be surprised that this is Mike's child.

Its been such a cool experience expecting a baby! We truly believe this is the perfect time for this baby to come, and we are extra excited because we have had so many friends and family announce they are pregnant and due within a few months of us. Congratulations to all of you, and thanks-we are glad there will be so many friends for our boy :)

1/11/11

2011-01-11T22:26:00.003-07:00

A little over a month ago Mike and I went in to the doctors office for our big 20 week ultrasound. We were so excited to check out our baby one last time before he was born, but unfortunately we left the appointment in a more somber mood. The ultrasound showed some extra fluid in one of the ventricles in our boys brain. The doctor who came in to talk to us gave us a wide variety of causes, one of them being it meant nothing at all, and others being far more serious. She told us not to worry (YA RIGHT!!!) but to get some blood work done and come back in a month to re-measure the fluid.

To make a long story short-this month has been LONG! Luckily we have had the holidays to keep us distracted, but especially this last week has seemed to drag on. Anyway, we went in today and were so grateful to hear that everything looks great. We had a different doctor look at our scans and he said he has zero concern that anything is wrong with the baby.

We are so relieved and feel so blessed that our boy is healthy. We are grateful to Heavenly Father for answering our prayers. We have been so spoiled during this pregnancy with lots of ultrasounds, and as much as we love seeing him, we hope this is our last one until he is born! All I can say is I hope he is a sweetheart to make up for all the drama he is causing while still in the womb!

Here is a picture of his leg & foot. He is quite the stinker and doesn't like to give us good profile shots, only perfect pictures of his hands and feet. Oh well!!

Holidays

2011-01-01T17:00:00.003-07:00

This holiday season has been so wonderful, but has gone by WAY too fast! I was lazy and didn't lug our camera around anywhere, so I have zero pictures. Anyway, I can't believe it is January, AND I can't believe we are in 2011!! I'm dreading these next few months because I think they are going to go by very slowly....we'll see!

We had the best Christmas this year. Both of us got some pretty awesome gifts from our parents. Thank you SO MUCH to our families for spoiling us so much!! It was nice to have one last Christmas that we could focus on us and not on kids-but it also made me SO excited for next year when we will have a little baby to enjoy Christmas with.

During the break we have made a few too many trips to Fashion Place mall, gone to gun shops and baby stores (the perfect combo) with the Edwards, played with all of our new toys, saw two good friends get married, watched movies and had yummy dinners with our families, and just relaxed! Its been the best, I'm not quite ready for it to be over and to go back to work full time!

The nursery is coming along-we have most of the big stuff done, now we just have a few finishing touches and we will be done. Its a very simple, very small nursery but I am actually loving the way its turning out. The only thing we don't have yet is a rocker/glider chair. I'm needing suggestions on this one, I can't decide what the best option would be. Any moms out there who have an opinion, let me know!!

This little boy is growing so much inside of me and I am really starting to feel it! My stomach is itching like crazy (anyone else have this?), I'm easily worn out, and its getting harder to bend over and move around like I normally do. I am feeling huge already and I still have 4 months to go! This pregnancy has been quite the rollar coaster, but its passing by quickly and I'm loving this experience now that I'm not so sick. Its amazing to feel him moving and now SEEING him move on the outside of my stomach. I never thought I would get this far! We are so happy.

Here is my first real belly shot we took today-23 weeks. I don't know why I've waited so long to take one....I guess I finally feel big enough to justify it now-before it was just the awkward "is she pregnant or just getting fat" stage. ha! I feel like I look a lot bigger in this picture than in person-then again maybe not!

I hope you all had a great Holiday break. I am so excited for this 2011 year-we have so much to look forward to and be grateful for!

Merry Christmas

2010-12-24T16:09:00.002-07:00

We hope everyone has a wonderful Christmas!! We love you!

Life.

2010-12-15T08:29:00.002-07:00

Throughout the past 5 months I have learned a lot about life.

I apologize if this post gets a bit religious but I've learned so much about the control that God has over our what happens to us. Yes, we do have our agency which is a wonderful thing, but ultimatly everything is up to God's will. I think in the past I have been trying to control everything in my life-and have not had the faith that the Lord will guide me and my family along the path we need to go. This pregnancy and child I am carrying has already humbled me to the core. There have been up's and down's, and I know there are many more of those to come before this baby is born. At times I would wonder why me?! Why can't I have a smooth pregnancy, where everything goes perfectly, I only feel sick the first trimester, etc. I came to a realization yesterday after scripture study with Mike, many prayers, and a fathers blessing that the Lord is trying to tell me something...

I need to have complete trust in him-in ALL aspects of life-schooling, careers, babies, family, finance, trials, etc. He will not let anything happen to me that is more than I can handle. I know if I can show him that faith, I can make it to May and deliver this little man into the world. Then, I can hopefully teach him the lesson it has taken me over 20 years to learn completely-Trust in God.

Pictures

2010-12-06T13:54:00.004-07:00

Our friend Bri is builing her photography portfolio and offered to take our picture this past weekend. She is so talented, and she sent over a little preview picture. I love how it turned out, and wow- I the background looks awesome!!

And the winner is.....

2010-12-05T22:10:00.002-07:00

Lindsey!

Who said the best part of her 2010 was welcoming baby Charlotte and completing her family.

Congratulations Lindsey and have fun shopping!!

Watch in your email for your gift card code and instructions-Thank you to everyone who entered!

(winner chosen by random.org)

Giveaway!

2010-12-02T14:01:00.009-07:00

Happy Holidays!!

Would a $35 gift card to one of CSN.com's awesome stores make your season a little bit brighter??

CSN is comprised of over 200 online stores, where you can find everything from Delsey luggage to Le Creuset cookware.

Just incase you can’t decide, here are a few suggestions of items you could get if you are our lucky winner:

Maybe one of their many wooden toys for your little one?

Reward your pet for being so cute by getting them a cool new bowl for Christmas!

Going to be doing a lot of holiday cooking? Why not pick up a new crock pot and make your life 10 times easier?

I picked up a pair of these for the squirmy boy in my tummy just a few days ago..

There is SO much to choose from, so the lucky winner will have a hard decision to make!

How to enter:

1. Since this year is almost over, leave me a comment telling me the best part of your 2010.

2. The giveaway will be open to enter until Sunday, December 5th until 6:00 pm.

3. The winner will be announced that evening!

4. Make sure to leave your email address in the comment, or SOME way to get a hold of you if you win.

Good luck to everyone!

Note: CSN only ships to the US and Canada and international shipping charges may occur in the event you ship your item to Canada.

Special thanks to CSN!

Buckster

2010-11-28T14:35:00.001-07:00

He is a character-making us laugh everyday. We love ya Buck.

Thankful

2010-11-25T22:52:00.002-07:00

As I sit here in my living room on Thanksgiving night, Mike, his brother Paul, friend Scott, and cousin Sam are all playing halo. I am shunned to the recliner and the slow internet connection. Regardless, I was reading my weekly babycenter.com email and was SO thankful to come across this article.

Many people have given me advice on what to do about morning (all day) sickness. Eat crackers before you get out of bed, get up slowly, try to sleep in a little longer, make sure you are always eating something, drink ginger ale, etc. Each time I got new advice I hoped and prayed I had finally found what would work for me. Each time the advice failed I was more discouraged, thinking I was seriously weird because nothing was making the sickness go away.

So on this Thanksgiving 2010 I am grateful to know that I am not alone! I kind of knew it all along I guess but I was grateful to hear about it from someone else. I am also very grateful to the people who commented on my last post about being sick-you all gave me hope that I might feel like myself again someday. Just in time for the holidays, the sickness is slowly subsiding, and we are praying it lasts!!

I'm so very grateful for this kiddo I have the priveledge of being a mom too soon. He is growing bigger and stronger everyday! I feel him all the time now and its hard to describe! I'm sure all the moms out there know what I mean.

I can't believe this is my life, I am so grateful it is.

Cutest Baby C.

2010-11-16T19:47:00.003-07:00

Forgive the horrible quality of these pictures-they are taken on a crappy camera in crappy lighting. But you can't deny they are the cutest pictures ever. We love you Charlotte, stop getting so big!!

Ugh...

2010-11-14T11:18:00.002-07:00

I wish that I was one of those people who has a perfect pregnancy. They feel great, energized, and have a pregnancy glow. When I imagined being pregnant that is what I imagined! I was DEAD wrong. I am well into my 2nd trimester and still having pretty much every symptom in the book. My "morning" sickness (morning, afternoon, evening, night) is abnoxious. Just when I think it is gone it comes back with a vengence. If there is a doctor out there who needs an example of symptoms that could happen when your pregnant, give me a call-I have them all!

Does anyone out there have any tips for sickness? I am very worried I will be sick throughout my entire pregnancy and would love to figure out something to ease the feeling. Anyone feel sick into their 2nd trimeseter and start feeling better later on? Please give me some hope! I know it will all be worth it when baby boy is born, but maybe if this is how it is every time I may be happy with 1-2 kids.....

someone wants to say hi.

2010-11-04T20:20:00.004-06:00

Say hello to our baby boy.

We are THRILLED!!

Halloween 2010

2010-10-31T20:47:00.007-06:00

I know-very original title but I was too lazy to come up with a good one! This halloween season started out very low-key with no plans, and ended up being very busy and fun filled!

First we went to a murder mystery party hosted by our friends Parker and Brooke. It was so fun and they put so much work into it. Everyone played their parts really well, Mike was a music agent and I was a gossip columnist, and we were all attending a post Academy Awards party. Mike was the only one to guess who the murderer was! It ended up being his Paul, but I will say for the record Mike truly did not cheat-he figured it out all on his own. Thanks so much for the fun Parker & Brooke!

Next up we had a date night with some of my good friends from high school. Kayley's mom loves to plan parties/activities so she planned a road rally for us, and it was intense! We started out at Barnes and Noble, where we found clues in various magazines and books that she had placed. Then next clue led us to the creepiest place ever! We had to crawl under 2 semi trucks to get to a trailer that was in the middle of an industrial area/junk yard, and inside were two homeless guys who gave us our next clue. I still can't figure out how she knows the guys because she wouldn't tell us, but if you take a look at the picture below you will see how freaky the place was. The last clue was tickets to a haunted house that was really fun/scary! Overall we had such a fun night-thanks mama Sandi!

Yesterday we went and saw the kiddos in their costumes. Everyone looked so cute!
Last night we helped with Mike's little sisters dance activity. They actually did a road rally as well, and we were stationed at the entrance of Bonneville golf course. The kids would get to our station, do a task, and then we'd give them their clue. It was fun-but we were up until after 3 am and that didn't sit well with my stomach. We didn't take any pictures but it was fun! The mask Mike has on in the picture below is what we wore during the road rally.

Out of the Woods

2010-10-29T21:26:00.006-06:00

To my family-

I love you ALL more than anything and everything-no matter what.

I wish you out of the woods,

Hey Baby

2010-10-18T16:38:00.004-06:00

It was SO good to see you today. You are DARLING and I SWEAR you have 6 fingers on one hand-not that I am worried about it, but I really think I counted 6.... Your Dad keeps reminding me that I was probably seeing things. Keep up the good growing work, we can't wait to find out even more about who you are in just a few weeks!

Any guesses?

We love you!

Crazy Days

2010-10-06T14:33:00.007-06:00

Well its official, my little brother (who I swear isn't old enough!) is gone! We just got home from dropping him off at the MTC and I can't believe it. I was nervous (I think more nervous than him) just because I didn't know what to expect but it went so well and I know he is where he is supposed to be. He was so anxious to just LEAVE, he has had his call for almost 5 months. He was very ready to go and didn't even look back at us as he walked away. It was fun for him because one of his friends was the one who greeted him at the MTC when we got there. Its funny, you just hop out of the car, hug them, and they leave. I think its a lot better that way, it makes it easier to say goodbye, rather than dragging it out with movies and talks, etc.

Anyway, we love you Elder Baker and are so so proud of you. You are going to do wonderful and Mike is jealous its not him leaving (rude huh?).

Here are some pics from last Saturday & today. We went to Snowbird on Saturday to hang out as a family one more time before Alex left.

At the MTC

In other news, I cannot wait to get into my second trimester. I am SO close. This baby is being very naughty and making me sooo sick. It has gotten much worse in the last few days and its almost to the point where I can't keep much down. I'm taking some medicine for it but it has stopped helping, so I guess I just have to tough it out for a little while longer. I also feel like none of my clothes fit. I'm not showing yet, but I am thicker around the waist and all my clothes squeeze me which just adds to the sickness. I just wanna start showing so I can get some bigger clothes! I know every bit of this will be so worth it in a few months, and thats what gets me through. Thankfully the people I work with are SO great and understanding, its such a blessing. They are always concerned with how I'm feeling. Thanks guys, sooo soo much!

Squirmy Grape

2010-09-29T18:02:00.004-06:00

Squirming like a worm, and the size of a grape.

That is the description of our child, who is currently residing in my tummy.

Baby Taylor

Due May 2, 2011

Taking Over

2010-09-15T10:34:00.003-06:00

I am not quite sure what to do with these two....

Easy Meals

2010-09-07T20:05:00.005-06:00

I made some really delicious lunch and dinner today and they were SOOO easy. I always hate when people say "this recipe is so easy!" and then it involves 20 different ingredients and steps. I love cooking complicated dishes, but when I want an easy meal, I really want it to be simple.

First I made mac & cheese. I got the recipe from my 2nd cousin Katie's blog. If you use whole wheat noodles this meal is a healthy alternative to boxed macaroni and cheese. I actually think this has more flavor than some of the mac & cheeses that you make as a casserole. This is a great meal to make if you are eating for 1 or 2, because you just make the it in individual bowls-which meals hardly ANY dishes!

Macaroni & Cheese

INGREDIENTS:

-one serving of noodles per bowl (about 1/4-1/2 cup before cooked)--I used curly noodles, but any small shaped noodle would work.

-2-3 Tbs milk per bowl

-1/4 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese per bowl--make sure to use sharp, even if its normally too strong for your taste. When it gets melted down it mellows the flavor out a lot, and it gives the dish a lot more flavor than regular cheddar.

-salt and pepper to taste--I actually didn't use ANY salt, just a sprinkle of pepper.

-optional: 1 Tbs butter per bowl for a more savory macaroni

1 Tbs cream per bowl for a more creamy macaroni.

INSTRUCTIONS:

Cook noodles in salted water-make sure to salt the water well so the noodles have more flavor.

When noodles are almost done, put milk/cream/butter in each individual bowl and heat in the microwave for about 1 minute or until bubbling. Put noodles into bowls, add shredded cheese, and stir until everything is melted together. Garnish w/pepper and enjoy!

For dinner I made pork tacos. I have never made them before and didn't have a recipe so I was a little nervous about how they would turn out, but they ended up being delicious!!

PORK TACOS

INGREDIENTS:

Meat:

-1 1/2 cups Ketchup

-3/4 cup Soy Sauce

-2 Tbs brown sugar

-2 Tbs water

-1 medium pork roast--I get mine in a 4 pack at Costco and freeze them

Mix all ingredients except the meat in a small bowl. Put meat in crock pot, and pour mixture over the top. Cook on low for 8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours or until meat is cooked through.

Other:

-Tortillas-I used small wheat tortillas because I don't like corn, but any type of smaller sized tortilla would work.

-Fresh cilantro

-Sour cream

-Lime

-Avacado

(You can really put anything you want on top of these, this is just what sounded good to me at the time.)

Shred cooked meat. Warm tortillas if desired. Assemble tacos with whatever garnish you like, squeeze fresh lime over the top, and enjoy!

Basic Math

2010-09-03T12:51:00.003-06:00

This:

Plus this:

Equals this:

The Problem With Dogs As Babies

2010-08-27T20:25:00.009-06:00

(Birdie & Mike in 2009)

I read these two posts by Nat the Fat Rat today and they are hilarious. Reminds me so much of our own lives.

Click the links below to read them.

You will especially love them if you have a dog!

This One Is About Barney

The Problem With Dogs As Babies

(Bucky and I in May 2010)

Disney

2010-08-22T21:40:00.007-06:00

Yesterday we got back from a week long vacation to Orlando, FL. It was a fun filled trip with SO much to do. We went to the beach, a water park, 4 of the Disney parks in D-World, & 2 different parks in Universal Studios, all in just 5 days. I cannot even begin to tell you how hot it was. It was shocking-the SECOND you walk out the door you are drenched in sweat. Besides the heat, everything was so much fun. There are so many pictures, and if you really want to see them you can look at them on facebook, but I just don't have the energy or time to put them all up on here. Maybe another day! Here is one:

School starts tomorrow and Mike and I are feeling very unprepared. We only have one car and are trying to figure out transportation, we don't have a parking pass yet, we just barley looked at our schedule to find where our classes are, and neither of us have gotten our books yet. Hopefully by the end of the week we will have a better idea of what we need and how we are going to survive such a busy semester being a single car family. We will make it work!

Thank you to both of our families for such a fun filled summer. I know I said it in my last post but we are dang lucky. Now its back to reality and it is hitting us hard!

What a summer

2010-08-14T08:42:00.014-06:00

My good friend Jackie got married to her high school sweetheart on Wednesday! She looked amazing!! Congrats J & C!

Friends @ the reception

temple

I really don't have much to blog about. We have some big things coming up soon that hopefully will spice up my currently boring blog.

We have been soooooo lucky this summer to have gone on a ton of really fun trips. We started the summer of with a trip to

St. George

and since then we have gone to

Washington

Vancouver

Idaho

and Lake Powell

Thank you SO much to our families for such fun experiences!! We thought we might be done with vacations for a while, but we have one more to top off the summer.

Tomorrow we are heading to:

and finally

We are so excited!

Dresses, Friends, & Puppies

2010-08-05T19:50:00.007-06:00

This post is super random but its a good one!

First, we took the pups to their favorite place in the world, Saltair. They LOVE it there because they can run and chase their ball forever and not have to be on a leash. They got tired and hot really fast so we were only there for about 20 minutes, but it was fun and they were so worn out. Here are some pictures. Birdie has a GIANT tongue!!

This week my good friend came into town from Boston, and she set up a lunch with a bunch of girls from high school. It was so fun to see everyone and catch up.

Bri, me, Kayley

the whole group

Lastly, there is an awesome website my friend from work told me about called eShakti. They sell clothes for a reasonable price, and for only about $8 they will customize the clothing to your size, and they will change the length, sleeves, or necklines if you want them changed. This is so great because they can change almost any style so that it can be garment friendly. Here are a couple dresses I am DYING to get.

I wouldn't change anything about this dress. It is the perfect length, and has such a fun

vintage & girly print. I want it so bad!

I have been on a quest for a flattering, black cocktail dress but they are hard to find. They always need a cardigan or are way too short, or cost a ton of money. I love the shape of this one. I would defiantly pay the extra $8 to send them my measurements so it would fit perfectly. I would also have sleeves added and might even make the dress a little bit longer if I needed to, and I would only have to pay the fee once!! This dress would cost me $68-not bad compared to similar dresses out there, plus it would be a custom fit and style.

Hope you enjoyed my ramblings- have a wonderful weekend!