Payslei

I absolutely LOVE these pictures!!! They were taken last week and I've been meaning to post them. The pix that were taken of the older two didn't exactly turn out so all I have are the ones of the baby that I took while the others were sleeping. I have to say that she is a pretty good model.

Addison's love of the telephone

Alas my little girl is getting bigger by the second. Addison today dialed her Grammy Mac's telephone number all on her own. She didn't ask for the numbers just picked up the phone and dialed it. No redial was not the button that she hit, but the actual number. Needless to say I am flabbergasted. Is she really supposed to be that grown up already?! I guess the next number that I will see her dial is her Grams and Gramps. Next thing you know my phone bill will be sky high due to her and her dialing capabilities. WOW!!!

Can we say slacker?!

Yuck, so I knew that I hadn't updated in quiet awhile but didn't realize that it had been a month! So much has happened and the days just seem to be flying by faster and faster with not many projects being accomplished. If one could count my house being destroyed seconds after it is cleaned then yes many projects/hidden agenda's of my children have been completed.

So here is some of what you have missed out on.....

1. Payslei and I were able to travel down to Arizona for my bff temple experience. It was so much fun to go and see where she grew up and put places and faces to all of the stories that she has shared. The temple was beautiful and I was so happy for her and the rest of her family. (Heath and Selina also went through the temple and then were sealed to one another and Lane) Payslei absolutely loved the horses and was such a good little girl while we were there. Our parents rocked they watched Addison and JT while we were gone for the long weekend, in fact when I got home they were happy to see me but now they keep asking to have sleepovers.

2. Melissa moved to Heber and so now I am lost without her here, in fact we don't even talk as much as we used to . Bummer!!! Hopefully though she will meet someone up there who is more into the country life than the city one that she wanted out of.

3. Dave's patrol car was in and out of the shop due to trani problems, it is going back in next week.

4. JT got a haircut! I LOVE IT and the grandma's hate it! (see the other post)

5. Addison turned 4 (see the other post)

6. Payslei is rolling over, smiling constantly, and loves to babble.

7. Payslei got her ear's pierced and now her and Addison have matching earrings. Or as Addie says, "look at mine and Payslei's diamonds", yea right not even her mommy has diamond earrings. Silly little girl.

8. Payslei is now on Rice Cereal and loves it. She will not go to bed at night unless she has gotten her cereal.

9. Payslei now sleeps through the night! Oh Happy Days!

Daddy the Barber

The other day I was approached with a question or rather a statement, JT needs his haircut. Dave asked if he could buzz it of give him a Mohawk. I quickly responded by telling him that I do not like it when boys have buzzed heads, so he can have a Mohawk. (I think it is because my cousins buzzed theirs every year and I never liked it) Dave asked once more to make sure that I was being serious and when I reassured him that I was all for the Mohawk he just grinned. I then proceeded to go and get the clippers so that I could cut JT's hair but his daddy wanted to do it by himself. So, JT now has a Mohawk that is off-center and absolutely loves it. I tried to offer my assistance but Dave declined and so now it just needs to grow out a little bit more so that I can straighten the doo.

Addison's 4th Birthday!!!

June 28th 2003 a beautiful 5lb 11oz girl was born and who could believe that she is now 4! Addison got to celebrate her birthday twice this year. Once on the 23 of June and then again on the 30th. For the festivities on the 23rd she got to pick out her very own pinata and help fill the candy in it. Her Auntie Nicole brought her siblings over to help Kami Bam, Coop, JT, and Addie to break the ninata open. It was so much fun!!! On the 30th we actually had a bbq to celebrate and open presents! Anyone who actually did call on her birthday was told, "It's not by birthday until it is B's one year mark" or "It's my birthday when Auntie Nicole goes to the temple" if you were then clever enough to ask or remind her that it was actually those to events she would quickly respond with," Umm.. probable it is my birthday!" I can't believe how grown up she has become lately! We love you Addison!!!

Hogle Zoo

These are just a few of the many pictures taken at the Hogle Zoo. Unfortunately my SLR ate some of my film when it was rewinding, such is life but the ones that turned out were totally cute. These pics all came from the digital. The best thing about the Hogle Zoo is that by the time the kids are ready to leave the Zoo is finished. Thanks everyone for the eventful week.

Playing with the Bear

Tis the season that all of the teenage cubs come down the mountain for food and to find their own territory. Dave decided that he would play with one and was only 5 feet away. This bear did not seem to afraid of Dave and the Wildlife guy. I think that he looks so cute.

By the way Karly, Auntie Gina lied to you when we were camping....They caught a Bear at the next park up while we were camping. Uncle Dave just told me that last night.

Clean up clean up

Today was an exciting day to say the least...that is if you consider cleaning an exciting event. Lately I have been feeling the need to take a bulldozer to all of the clutter that I have in my life right now. So with that being said today I approached Addison and asked her if we could clean her room and in doing so we would throw away all of the broken toys as wells as give toys that she no longer played with to other children who needed toys. It was amazing she immediately hopped up off of the floor and stated that we needed to go and clean her room because she knew that there were a lot of kids who need her old toys. I am so proud of my little girl, in fact we only had tears shed once when Daddy came home and told her that he was going to throw all of her toys away or give them away unless I quickly came back in the room. I quickly came into the room and told him that he could not and then I explained that she had been doing so well at cleaning and making good decisions. The damage had already been done so to try and recover he told Addison that if he did give away all of her toys that he would buy her new ones. Addie was so excited that she went to empty out all of her "keep toys" so that she could have all new ones. Bad idea Daddy!!! Seriously though I am so proud of my little girl she got rid of one large black garbage bag and a huge box full of toys.

Kids 2001 Mommy 1

"Does what I say even matter?" NO!
Yes that has to be one of the stupidest questions I have yet to ask my dear sweet children. I of course asked it after I was at my wits end and ready to begin a short and downward spiral. The older two had not been listening to what I asked since their naps. My requests went something like...JT please drink your milk in the kitchen. Addison please do not pull the newspaper apart. Children please do not climb on the couch. they then turned into demands...Get out of the curtains. Do not hit your sister with the bat. Get out of the baby swing. Do not sass me! Dave please help me!!! Yes in my moment of despair sound came to the question that I was drumming over and over again in my mind, "Does what I say even matter?" Oddly enough I wasn't expecting an answer but my smart little two year old quickly responded, "NO!" At that moment I just had to take a deep breath and laugh to myself thinking he is to smart for his own good. So tonight I am ready to throw in the towel, I give up! At this point I can only think that tomorrow is another day and hopefully then I can get ahead or at least think I've won one adventure.

PADI Certified

So first off I have to shout it from the roof tops Dave and I are Scuba certified. Grammy Mac was kind enough to play with Addison and JT over the weekend while Grams and Gramps took care of Payslei. I am happy to report that all of my babies behaved in fact Payslei no longer sticks out her bottom lip when Grams talks to her but now smiles and coos. We arrived in Wendover at the hotel around 1:00 checked in and then we all loaded up into the vehicles and headed out to the lake for our first open water dive. When it was over we all headed back to the hotel to get ready for dinner, wash out the equipment, and I desperately needed to pump for Payslei. We went to one of the buffets and I got sick along with a couple of other people in the dive group. Dave got a phone call just before 5:00 trying to call him out to work, they didn't have the updated schedule. I decided that I would get up at that point and pump again because I knew that I wouldn't have time before we were to be up and ready for the next dive. The last dive went slowly but great, 3 1/2 hours later we were certified and were able to play in the water and then go home. Dave being the amazing person that he is went to work after we got home while I totally bummed it. Thanks once again to our amazing Grams, Gramps, and Grammy Mac.

JT and the Terrible Two's they have just begun

Now I know that my children are God sent but sometimes I think that the man upstairs has a twisted sense of humor when it comes to my kids and their behavior. Take today for an example...JT only wants candy for breakfast and wont eat anything else. Later while I am multitasking JT takes off his diaper and comes into the Front room (no big deal he has been potty training himself) WRONG!!! He looks at me and smiles squats down in front of his little skateboard and craps on the floor. As he does this he proceeds to look up at me lovingly I yell get your but in on the toilet and off his little toosh runs and sits up. To late though the damage is done the is crap on my floor. (Mind you when this happens I am on the phone and checking the news on the computer, my best friend hears me yelling and is just laughing!) Now being the mom that I am I run a bath and have him get into it to clean off, Addison decides that she needs to bathe as well so soon they are playing and having a great time. Payslei wakes up again and so I am in the bedroom changing her and feeding her when my bf shows up and immediately JT thinks that he needs to get out of the tub so that he can leave with her. Thank goodness that Daddy shows up and so now he is distracted. Melissa leaves and then Daddy leaves to run just a few more errands and the kids have a good time playing all the while they keep asking to go outside to play. I quickly strike a deal with them and tell them that they can play in the backyard after lunch while Dave and I finish our reading for the Dive class later that night. Dave gets home and we start studying while the Macaroni and Cheese cook. The kids eat lunch and are watching cartoons when I get the notion to check on them. This is another big mistake, JT in all his "acrobatic/engineering know how" has pushed the piano bench from the front room into the kitchen up against the dishwasher which he has pushed in front of the fridge and climbed from one object to the next to retrieve the koolaide mixture that was located on top. After retrieving the koolaide he pushed the piano bench and dishwasher back up against the wall where the dishwasher goes. Needless to say he tried to get himself a drink of koolaide by mixing it himself and poor Addison was trying to be good and clean it up so that he mommy didn't have a nervous break down. Unfortunately for both of them koolaide doesn't clean up well with water, its best to first sweep up all you can and then get a wet rag. The mess was everywhere, in the children's hair, on their clothing, as well as their skin, not to mention the kitchen floor, interior and exterior of the fridge, Dining room floor, chair, Front room, my Sheets and Comforter. It was everywhere red koolaide. At the time it happened I was furious but looking back now I see that it wasn't something that is worth having a nervous breakdown over just something that I should post for all to laugh at and show JT when he is older. So for all of you moms laughing now I hope that you never have to clean up red koolaide and that you all put the powdered drink substances up behind closed cupboard doors.

Payslei's sleeping

Payslei slept through the night! YES!!! I topped her off last night around 10:00 and she did not wake up until 6:00 when Dave started getting ready for work. We were both so excited and yet exhausted at the same time. Addison came into our room last night and crawled into bed with us and kicked off the covers multiple times as well as tried to kick me off the bed. So, even though my baby slept through the night I didn't and have woken up with a pounding headache. So, keep your fingers crossed that Payslei continues to sleep through the night and that the older two kids stay in their own beds.

A Mother's Day Gift

Now any of you who know me well know that I have always said that the reason my older two were so angelic as babies is because God knew if I had a "upset" one that there would be no more. This being said Payslei is a screamer/crier and church is rarely enjoyed due to the over abundance of energy that exhumes from my children. Well today I got a break, or as I like to call it a Gift from God for Mothers Day, Payslei took a pacifier and was quiet for all 5 1/2 hours of church. Yes we took it to the extreme today but let me explain first was church in our area and then onto church in my parents ward to listen to Gramps talk. My children were angelic to say the least, well as far as church is concerned. After church it was another story for the most part angelic but hey it wouldn't be one of our kids if there wasn't a little mischief. Sorry Mom and Auntie Alyssa! I guess this is what happens when I slack in covering my kids in Sunscreen.

Happy Mother's Day to all of you wonderful influential Women in our lives

We Love You!

Addison and the Bumble Bee

The kids were anxiously looking out the picture window and giggling and then all of a sudden came the blood curdling screams. I immediately jumped up and saw my little girl running holding her arm and jumping. A gigantic bumble bee had attacked. The Bumble was holding onto her arm for dear life and was not about to let go. I quickly put Payslei into the car seat nearby and proceeded to knock the Bumble off. Needless to say I truly felt bad for my little girl. It was so traumatic that we had to call our Grams and Grammy Mac to tell the tale. It was so cute to hear Addison tell them that a Bumble Bee poked her with a needle on her arm. It was even cuter when she told her daddy what happened..."Daddy um I was looking out the window with JT and laughing looking at the Bumble Bee sleeping and it jumped up and poked me with a needle on my arm." (This time there was no crying) My favorite by far was when she asked me for a candy bar and then proceeded to tell me that it will help to make her arm feel better. Oh yeah and that she needed a band aide as well. Here are some of the pictures that we had to take of the battle wound and evil bee. It looks massive in person but not in the picture. Thank goodness that she isn't allergic to bees.

We love the water

So today the kids ran to the front door stark naked and wanted to go out to play. It was all I could do to keep them inside until they were properly dressed in "twimtut." Now any of you who have children know that if you have on your twimming tut you need the twimming pool. Needless to say by the end of the afternoon my poor children were nicely pinkified and sad to see the pool get emptied. Being a mom I had to laugh when JT was devastated at the idea that he could no longer fill the pool with water and get his sister wet, even more traumatized when his mommy wouldn't let him play out in the pool naked.

Lip Chap

Today has been one of those "typical" mom days....Addison and JT found some of my old "lip chap." I use found very lightly they actually opened up the closet door on the vanity and then pulled out the Rubbermaid drawer that it was located in and proceeded to "paint" their faces. For the most part Addison got it all around her lips (she looked like a clown had done her makeup), JT on the other hand had it everywhere, lips, eyelids, cheeks, ears, and don't forget the hair. It looked like he had tried to streak his hair with lipstick. At times like this all I can think is Where is my camera, oh wait I remember I dropped it and it broke. So all of you who have kids I'm sure that you have felt my pain at least once or will be soon and for those who don't just use your imagination.

I LOVE Peanut Butter Cookies....

Let me set this up by saying that last night while Dave and I went out my family watched our kids. Kadon was busy making cookies for everyone that would attend his Eagle Project the next morning. He had already made Chocolate Chip and was beginning to make Peanut Butter Cookies. Addison really wanted to help and was "supervising" she proceeded to ask Kadon what kind he was making and what was in it. The conversation went something like this,
"What is in Peanut Butter cookies?"
"Butter, sugar, brown sugar...."
"I love Peanut Butter Cookies"
"Addison have you ever had Peanut Butter cookies before?"
"No"
"Well then how do you know that you love them?"
"Because they have ...SUGAR."
I always knew that my daughter had a sweet tooth but not to this extent. (I know that she got that trait from her daddy) Sometimes she just says the cutiest things. And yes for any of you who are wondering she has had Peanut Butter Cookies before she has even helped me make them and then drizzle chocolate on them.

Six years and counting

Happy Anniversary Baby! There are some moments that it seems like just yesterday that we got hitched and then the kids start screaming and we wake up into reality; boy has time flied by. In the past six years we have moved from Idaho, where we met, to California, and then on to Utah. Our jobs have also changed mine from student to accounting to office manager, and finally to mommy and yours from a baker to auto body, prison guard and now to UHP. Well through it all I wouldn't want to journey through this adventure with anyone else but you. ~I love you!~

Sun Bathing

2 of 3 finished

I just have to brag about my husband and tell the world that he has completed 2 out of the 3 projects that he has been working on. Yep, last night he got the washing machine hooked up and now I can finally do Laundry!!! He also got the fence completed on J.T.'s birthday, now all that he has left to do is finish wiring the lights in the Front room. I just have to say that I love it when his family comes to town, it's like he gets a swift kick in the pants to get everything done before they get here. Hopefully I can squeeze in 2 more projects and get Addie's and J.T.'s rooms finished before everyone gets here the end of May. No seriously, what else can I say other than that Dave is amazing!!

I want to go diving too...

First off I should start out by saying that my kids are just like their daddy and love, I mean LOVE the water and anything that has to do with it, while I on the other hand do not float I sink. Now that I have shared that info. let me explain the adorable pictures. Dave and I are taking a dive class. I have been reassured that it is much easier than swimming alone and that I will not die. So, after spending a small fortune on equipment I am happy to report that the class is this Saturday. Yep, scaredie pants me is getting into the pool at 10:00 am. Addison and JT are quiet sad that they don't have any equipment small enough for them. I don't think that they understand that the tank itself weighs more than both of them combined. So, until that day when they are old enough to go diving with us they will have to settle for snorkeling and playing with Daddy's old gear. On second thought maybe we will just get them some of their own so when they ruin it their daddy won't cry. I almost forgot, notice how the mouth piece is barely fitting into Addie's mouth and just a small piece of it is in J.T.'s, they both tried so hard to get it to fit it in.

Why Auntie Gina is my favorite

Today McKinley came to play with her favorite Auntie Gina. We had so much fun just the two of us playing outside and eating a Dum Dum sucker. Warning to all be careful, because she loves to share her treats and then proceed to eat the wrong end of the sucker. By the time she was finished she was covered in blue and all sticky. Even with the mess it sure was worth it.

Addison wants to be a hair dresser

Yes I have decided to post my daughters latest stunt. Addison has once AGAIN cut her hair. Now for any of you who are counting this is the third time yes count with me, 1st time was days before our trip to California for Kim and Ethan's sealing, 2nd time was right after it was long enough for baby pig tails, cut one from the front and the other from the back, and the 3rd time over at my mom's neighbors house. I am hoping to say that this is the last time this will happen but as you can see I wasted my breath the last two times that I said it. I guess I should look on the bright side of things at least she now has a bob and not a punk rock doo <-(I happened to really like this look she had the attitude to pull it off, only the older generations hated it) or even worse a shaved head. Just a note for all of you moms who are now feeling just a little bit of my pain or laughing at my misfortune she told her Grams that it was because she thought her hair was getting a bit to long. She seems to think this every time one of my brothers get their hair cut.

JT is 2

All day on Friday JT had been walking around singing, "Appy Bird Day to me" and when asked who's birthday it was he'd respond, "ME" and how old are you "2", as he held up five little fingers. My how my little boy has grown. He is definitely all boy between his five concussions, love for dirt and chaos, and love for balls, yes his first word was ball. Needless to say for his birthday he received all things that involved balls, and one skateboard that I am sure will result in another concussion and him wearing a helmet. Almost all of the family came to celebrate his birthday eating Sour cream Enchiladas, Rice, Beans, Cake and Ice Cream. Addison and JT especially enjoyed the balloons on the cake made out of icing. We love our little boy and can't wait to see what this new year will bring.

A day with Leslie and Bailey

As you can all tell my kids loved playing and had an amazing time with their Auntie Lele and Bailey. Addison, JT, and Payslei all had a blast hanging out while Dave and I went to work. I thought that it was very brave of them to take all 3 but I guess Leslie wanted the practice and Bailey just wanted to play with the kids. She is going to be an amazing Auntie. We love you guys!!!

Why things happen in 3

Microwave on the skits, Fridge freezes everything and freezer doesn't cut it, oven range only 2 burners work and one is temperamental. Today Dave, the kids, and I all went appliance window shopping just to see what the damage will be when they all completely give up and die. I guess that it is a good thing that summer is almost here and we can cook outside in dutch ovens and on the grill. I'm sure that replacing the fridge will come first and then the microwave and stove. Now don't get me wrong I am sad that all of these things are breaking especially at once but, I can't wait to pick out the new stuff and know that it will work. I just thought of another 3 that is happening in our lives right now....Dave has 3 projects happening; Lights in the Front Room, Washing area needs to be completed, and lastly the fence. (fence should be done by tomorrow)

Why I love being a mom....

As I am sitting here looking up info on the computer I hear my children banging their feet on the picture window which causes me to chuckle and reflect on the past couple of days. Since today is the most fresh on my mind I will start there. This morning my beautiful baby girl launched spit up onto the top of my forehead, down into my hair, and onto my glasses, the best part of this is that the spit up not only covered my glasses but ran down my forehead into my eyes and from there down past my chin. Now, lets all say this together YUCK!! The next adventures came right after, Auntie Lele and Uncle Pill showed up and I was not dressed yet due to the previous incident with the baby, I was not allowed to get up until Dave came and shut the bedroom door. The kids thought that it was an awesome treat to have their Auntie and Uncle over to play and eat pancakes with us. After playing for awhile it was nap time and Phill tried to get JT and Addison to lay down with him, no such luck instead JT ran into the bathroom. <-This is where it gets good...He decided to change his own diaper and sit on the toilet. Needless to say when I went into the bathroom Addison was trying to help him clean off the toilet seat. His bottom half was covered in yuck, smelly; well you get the point. I quickly cleaned him up and placed him into the tub to really get clean and made Addie wash her hands and leave the bathroom. Next it was Leslie turn and she amazingly got the kids to sleep. ( I wish that they would listen to me the way they listen to her but that's another story) Phill fell asleep holding Payslei on the couch while Leslie and I talked and looked at fonts. As they were getting ready to leave JT woke up and wanted to play, luckily they left before he woke up all they way or else drama would've occured. I made lunch and JT spilled his Orange juice all over my new vanity needless to say I was thrilled with excitement, no seriously I cleaned it up with a little help from JT. Addison woke up next and she also needed lunch but..."I dont want broccoli, carrots, or this stuff, I don't like broccoli until Sunday." Now onto yesterday, my poor children did not fall asleep until 10:30/11:30 last night, they were in bed multiple times but no sleeping had occurred until that hour. Earlier the new vanity was turned into a car and off the two of them went to Costco, Gramms, etc... Oh and yes milk was spilled all over the vanity yet again while I was taking care of Payslei, Addie opened the fridge and you know what happened next. Quick side note the kids just picked up the phone and are saying hello and dialing numbers. AAAHHHH! All in all the kids weren't that bad yesterday the true drama happened Monday night. It was of course bedtime, JT and Payslei were both asleep and Addison was in full diva mode. I had to help my best friend unload a trundle bed frame and put it in the house before she left. Addison had a fit and yelled at the top of her lungs telling me that she did not want it to come into our house. Now here is the funniest part. I was trying to explain why we need the trundle to use for company and for when Payslei got older. Addison screamed, "I don't want it under my bed EVER! Payslei can't share my room with me EVER, EVER! (and my favorite) I never going to let Payslei sleep in my room EVER, FOREVER!!! This all was happening as she was running into her room. Earlier in the day we had played at my mom's house, drama usually happens when we head for home and also traveled up to Midway and just below the dam on two separate occasions all for Dave's work. Dave did make a stop at the Dock of the Bay to let the kids get out some of their wiggles. So why some of you might not relate to why I have to post "I love being a mom" just wait until you are a parent and are having some of these things happening you will also find yourself needing to remind you and others that you really do love being a mom. I mean what other job could you honestly wear mismatched pajamas, toe socks, and glasses as your work attire. I really do love my kids they truly are the excitement in my life.

Addison and her helping hands

I have been meaning to write about this event ever since I was told on Monday. Over Easter weekend we were over at Gram's and Gramp's house playing and trying to get things ready for the BBQ at Uncle Kevin's house. In all of our excitement Addison didn't quite make it to the toilet and had a very small accident. She took it upon herself to clean herself up and put her clothing into the washer. Addison wanted to start the machine but Grams told her that it wasn't full yet and to have me get her new clothes to wear. She did as she was told but, when no one was around she took it upon herself to fill the compartment with laundry soap. When I say fill I actually mean stuffed, it was completely full, bleach, fabric softener, and soap area crammed in tight. It was so tight that when Grams tried to pull out the compartment drawer it was stuck. Grams said that she had to take the compartment completely out, salvage what soap she could and rinse out the rest. Also in Grams discovery was a towel with a nice pile of laundry detergent. Needless to say that when my washing machine gets installed I will probably have to place the soap up high or teach Addison how to correctly do the laundry.

Finally Fencing

I just wanted to let everyone see how hot my two boys are. Today we started the process of installing a new back fence. Needless to say neither Dave or I wanted to dig holes by hand so we rented a Dingo and Auger and away we went. It only took 1 hour to complete all of the holes. 1 1/2 hours if you count the playing/work that JT did while he was out there. Fingers crossed we will have the fence completely installed by the end of the week. I can barely contain my excitement, I will now have a back yard that the kids can play in!!! It only took 1 1/2 years to get it to this point. Hopefully this weekend before Dave leaves to work we will have the back yard tilled up and ready to either plant grass seeds or lay down sod. This is going to be the best summer ever!!!!

I am Shera!!!

This is just a quick little post to let everyone know that I caught a mouse in my house yesterday. YUCK!!! Anyways, it all of a sudden appeared in the hall so I stomped on it and when it wasn't moving I lifted up my foot and it started to run so, I stomped on it again and Dave came and put it in the dumpster. The worst part of it was that I could feel it moving while I stood on it. Dave was so impressed that he wanted to take a picture but he was informed that he couldn't and to get rid of it quickly. I guess this is what happens when you grow up with your mom terrified of mice you learn to take matters into your own hands or feet. Happy Stomping!!!

I saw this and just had to try!

I happened upon this and now I want to take so many new pictures. It makes me so happy that I don't have to narrow my pictures I post to just one. After all I happen to think that my kids are so adorable and hot. JT's latest saying is, "Tetie Beast" aka Sexy Beast. He says that after he put on his new swimming suit and now every time he flexes or gets dressed. Addison is also doing her part in helping JT to talk better, she carefully enunciates every syllable which is also improving her own talking.

Make-up Artists

Yesterday Addison and JT took it upon themselves to help make mommy beautiful. JT had gotten out my make-up brushes to paint the wall with. Addison decided that it would be a better idea if they did my make-up for me. I'll I have to say at this point is thank goodness for their vivid imaginations. My pillow case and duvet cover served as the perfect make-up pallet with its variety of color. Every time that I would ask if my make-up was done I'd get a response of, "No, your not beautiful yet." Addison was very delicate as she placed the "black" eye shadow on my eyelids and then the "green" cheeks, chin and "burgundy" lips. JT just loved the idea of shoving one of my blush brushes hard onto my nose and then cheeks, the more mommy wiggled the better. When I was finally finished Addison pipped in and said, "Mommy your beautiful now." Silly me I thought that meant that I was done, instead Addison ran in and opened my pink eyeshadow, drowning the brush, and went to paint my eyes. I quickly explained that it only took a little bit and offered to let her wear it instead. So, Addison got to wear pink eyeshadow and bronzer yesterday. I had to stop her though when she wanted the charcoal gray and explain that little girls didn't wear that color yet. JT also thought that he needed to follow in his sisters footsteps but he got no make-up. I think that these are the things that help to brighten my days and give me hope.

Sad News

So, I have some sad news to share with everyone, I broke the digital camera the other day and so all of my really cute ideas are now put on hold. I know that many of your are probably wondering, How if not Why I would do something like this. Let me share the tragic story. I put it up on a cabinet and totally forgot that there were pixie stix's up there and it fell smack dab onto my nicely clean floor. BAM! It broke and I found myself laughing because I put it up to keep it out of the reach of the children so they wouldn't break it. Thank goodness for an understanding husband who smiled at me when he found out and said, "That's okay, I'll buy you a new one." Other sad news is that everyone but Dave has some type of a cold. Addison started in with a cough last Tuesday, JT followed the next day and it moved into his eyes, Payslei was next to follow suit and now it is my turn. Talk about bad luck all the kids are sick and so is the mommy. Just in! Dave is reading over my shoulder and says, "That's good for me!"

JT

I just thought that everyone would like to see just how cute JT has become lately. I was going through the family pictures and found a really cute one of JT and his daddy both posing for the camera. As you can tell JT won and daddy got cropped out. I thought that since I was posting this way hot picture of JT I would fill everyone in on some of the latest adventures, mishaps, as well as one misjevious act. He has now had his 4th concussion all before the age of two, he has received his first summer/spring mishap of scraping his elbow today (Addison took this to be a great photo opportunity). "OH MAN!, and "Dude" are his latest new phrases to say, Biting is now a last resort (Hallelujah!), the phone rings and automatically its Grandpa calling for JT and its time to go no matter what. Payslei is now one of his favorite people and he loves to hold her, kiss her, and call her name. Dumping out all of the detanglar in the front room was his happy playtime yesterday until he slipped and fell, bumping his head and getting his shirt all dirty. Happy news for JT is that he is getting his last two teeth on the top right now; lets all say together, how sad for mommy. He is all boy and a running trophy for all of his accomplishments and mishaps. We are all so grateful to have JT as a part of our family and we love him beyond words!

Tornados and Hurricanes

Have you ever wondered the power of 2 toddlers and an 8 week old?.....It's a tornado of messes, a hurricane of excitement, and all the noises that are associated with them. I am quiet sure that the reason why tornado's and hurricanes have names is due to the simple fact that a mother or father is in the office where it is first reported. So, announcing and might I add be on the look out for....Hurricane Addison, Tornado JT and Hurricane Payslei.

Here are some examples of damages already done and occurring daily:

• Folded laundry already in drawers, not any more, its dress up time!
• Happy Baby in swing....Not now JT just climbed in on top or decided to swing it with all his muscles as fast and hard as possible
• Satisfied with drink, WRONG it's on the floor
• Lunch time includes screaming, fighting, tears and occasionally some hitting, scratching, and biting
• Nap times, never long enough
• Freshly cleaned rooms disappear in a millisecond, Literally
• Tantrums a daily occurrence
• Causing more than one mess at once
• Exhausting the storm chasers
• Sleeping baby not anymore someone has rocked the bassinet a little to hard
• Toilet training, I hope that it is just spilled water....

While many of you I am sure think that they are cute and such well mannered children let me reassure you that yes from afar they seem cute and innocent but, up close and personal you may find yourself within the danger zone and experience the damage and devastation first hand. Just like most storm chasers I find myself quiet intrigued, loving them, and admiring the devastation that occurs in their presence. I also find myself trying to figure out how they all begin and what may posses them, almost drive them at times.

Payslei at Six Weeks

Adventures of Payslei's Blessing Day

This is just a small glimpse into how tired we all were by 7:30 that night. Dave and I woke up, after having hardlee any sleep the night before, at 7:30. Payslei had been restless most of the night, I think that she must have known that the day would be all about her. Dave and I got ready and quickly got the older two ready, as quick as one can mind you they are toddlers. Unfortunately, JT's shoes were at his Papa's and Gram's house and we couldn't mind a mate to one of the other pairs. Addison got ready pretty much without a hitch she was excited to be saying the opening prayer in Primary. I then proceeded to get Payslei ready. PANIC!, where is her slip!!! Luckily I finally found it and put it and the dress on and we all ran out the door. We arrived at the church during the opening hymn. Dave preformed the blessing and it went well. My favorite part was when she started screaming during the middle of it and wouldn't stop. We stayed for all of church and then proceeded over to my parent's house for the party. All I have to say is thank goodness for a best friend like Melissa who put the Lasagna into the oven and baked the two cakes for the celebration. I do not know what I would've done without her. The party was a blast everyone had a great time. Infact Kameryn and I played for a couple of hours game after game and one coloring book after another. I tried to see if she wanted anyone else to play with us but the answer was, "No, dust Auntie Dina." After everyone had pretty much left JT tripped and fell receiving a concussion. It was a battle to keep him awake and convince his Daddy that he couldn't sleep, even though he had not had a nap. Pictures were taken not long after that and we headed home at 7:30 exhausted. Unknown to Dave and I that we would be kept up all night with a baby who had an upset stomach. No more Lasagna for me for a while.

California or Bust!!

The weekend of 15th-21st of February found us traveling to California for a Surprise 50th Anniversary for Grandma Mere and Grandpa Milton. We left Thursday on our way to meet up with the caravan of cars, that left ahead of us, in Winnemucca. We should have known that we would be doomed when the vehicle started having a hard time climbing a hill after Windover but, we pressed on. The next morning before we all left Dad, Steve, and Dave found themselves looking under the hood and even running the computer to see what would cause the engine light to come on and off, but to no avel nothing appeared that would cause the problem so off we went again. We had not been on the road long when Addison exclaimed I need to go to the bathroom, we pulled off the next exit that had a bathroom and in we ran. With the bathroom crisis solved we were ready to go again and try to catch up to everyone. Not long after getting onto the freeway we started in with problems again while climbing a hill. We told everyone of the problem and that we would meet them in Boomtown needless to say we didn't make it that far into Reno before are fate was sealed....stuck in Reno. We tried to make it on surface streets but nothing seemed to work. Steve, Alyssa, Mckinley and Dad all turned around to come to our aide. All I can say is we are truly lucky that Dad, Steve, and Dave know things about cars and more importantly that Steve brought his tools with him. We love having a mechanic in the family! After many phone calls back and forth to James (Steve's boss) he said head to NAPA I have a friend who is a mechanic there and they will let you use whatever tool you need. After stopping at NAPA and thinking that it might be the fuel pump and NAPA needing to order the tester we drove to a mechanic shop and they were not only kind enough to test it but to also replace it. In the meantime the Bowen's and the rest of the family was still sitting in Boomtown waiting. After the shop had ordered the part we contacted mom and told her the good news. We also decided to go to Circus Circus, eat and watch the show. Mom got lost coming to where we were and by the time they got there they were lowering the vehicle back to the ground we were fixed! So needless to say we never made it to Circus Circus but drove through and stopped to eat in Auburn. I should clarify that Dave and I both told them many times to go on with out us, that eventually we would follow but that was in vain, Mom and Dad would not go on without us.
Needless to say the trip to California was full of adventure and learning experiences. Dave's comments over the two-way radios, Steve's Garmin and slow driving, Bowen's lack of sleep, and finally arriving sometime around midnight to waiting open arms. Great news is that we all had a wonderful time creating memories and all made it home without a problem, might I add in 10 hours including stops.

Addison and JT want to be like their daddy

As I am sitting here reflecting on the past two weeks I keep seeing little stunt devils in my memory which so foundly reminds me of their Daddy and his stunts as a little boy and now an adult. (I use that term very loosely) Let me share a few....On the 3rd we all went over to my parents house and JT proceeded to Long Board all by himself, I should clarify that he was standing upright and actually doing a pretty good job at starting and maintaing his balance. We were all so proud including his uncles. Little Addie could not be out done so on Sunday she tried to Long Board as well, not such great results; She and Grandpa collided which made her eat it and earlier she received a grip tape burn on her forehead, check bone, and nose while trying to ride. Being the trooper that she is the next morning she woke up to tell me that her and JT need smaller skateboards, "a pink one for me cause I'm a girl and a blue one for JT, oh and one for Grandpa cause he's not very good and I need to teach him." If we could all be as forgiving as a 3 1/2 year old. Next event was one that JT preformed by jumping from the back of the couch onto the couch cushions and then found himself doing a front layout landing on his head and then feet flopping to the ground. OUCH!!! Lastly I would like to share the incident that happened just this morning while I was pre-occupied with Payslei, all of a sudden heard the hum of a razor. JT had decided that he wanted to use his daddies electric razor and shave just like him. I quickly jumped up from my seat and ran into his room where he was carefully "shaving." I was just grateful that it was an electric razor and not the hair cutting buzzers. At this rate I'm not sure these two children will survive to their teenage years let alone into adulthood. In fact, I'm not only surprised that they live through these events but that their Daddy lives through all of his "bright and exciting" adventures and stunts.

Family Photo Shoot

Yesterday Alyssa came over and took some much needed photographs of our family. While I was finishing getting ready Dave took the opportunity to have some taken with his kids. They all look so cute in them. Oh yeah, I absolutely love our family picture too.

Second child syndrome

JT still loves his little sister but is now wanting to be the baby and center of his mommies attention. His latest antics include pushing over the bassinet when the proper attention is not coming his way, climbing into the bassinet, stealing Payslei's blankets and Nuk, and jumping upon his mom when she is feeding Payslei demanding, "Hold me peas." He still is a huge help, as much as a 1 1/2 year old can be, but thank heaven that Grandpa is close by when he wants to play or be a little to helpful.