Living Life, Loving Eachother

Luke and Katrina's Wedding

2012-01-17T00:18:00.000-07:00

Robin's Brother Luke Got married in November. we were all able to go to Washington to Meet Katrina and see them get married. Our journey began by driving to Boise. We stayed the night with my Best Friend from high school Kristin. Kenidee and Kristin's daughter had so much fun together. We really weren't there long but they got to be little buddies in an instant. They even slept in the same twin bed. Kristen and I really didn't think they would both last all night in the same little bed but they made it. We flew out so early the next morning and Kristin woke up and made us breakfast! What a awesome friend!

We were running a bit late after finding a place to park and getting ALL of our STUFF together. When we finally made it to our gate they were waiting for us. The airline was so nice and so helpful. Kenidee is a pro at flying. This was Bennett's second time and Eli's first time flying. They all did SO good on the flight. After we landed the man in front of us turned around and told me that my kids were so good, he hardly even noticed that there were little kids behind him.

I am super bummed I didn't get ANY pics at the temple. I had left my camera in the car and it was POURING! So a few shots at the reception was going to have to do.

Isn't my little Eli so dang cute!

Luke & Katrina. I met her AFTER they were married. So I don't know her well but the girl knows how to throw a party and to keep the danced floor warm.

Luke and Grandma Markham

Kenidee and Bennett danced most of the night. I LOVED watching my kids dance and laugh together.

Markham and all her Great grand kids.

Bennett is so handsome! and he knows it!

Two of the most handsome men in my life. It was so nice to see Robin all dressed up in a tux. oh la la!

Uncle Chris. well really look at him! Do I really need to say anything about him he is so FUNNY!

Really... he is SOOO cute!

I don't know why I like this picture so much but it just makes me laugh!

Luke and Katrina had their first dance and it was so nice. They cut a rug all night.

My cute little family.

Bennett was so not shy. He started dancing with this little girl. This little girls mom was so nice to just let him dance with her.

So we were taking our family picture and I had no idea uncle Chris was behind us. See what did I say he is so funny.

Luke and Katrina leaving the church.

The Markham boys are relentless when they decorate cars. my car was bad but not this bad.

We had so much fun on our short trip. we played with cousins and got to see all of our grandparents. oh one last story. While we were in there Grandma and Grandpa Wright let us borrow their car. On the back of the car were two wolf decals. Bennett dub the car the wolf car! he LOVED it. He was so sad to leave the car in Washington. He will sometimes say things like hey mom when do we get to see grandma and grandpa wolf, or I can't wait to ride in the wolf car.
We haven't been able to get to Washington the last few years and we are so thankful that we were able to go and see a few old friends and tons of family. Best of all to see Luke and Katrina be sealed for time and all eternity. To be able to teach our children why we get married in the Temple.

love note!

2012-01-13T22:27:00.000-07:00

The first part of November Kenidee came home from school with these. LOVE NOTES. I really didn't know what to think of them. Kenidee did say that he said his sister helped him write it. I did explain to her that she is WAY to young for a boyfriend. Kenidee told me that he wanted a note back so I helped her write a note saying she would really like to be friends with him.

Fall Fun

2012-01-13T22:20:00.000-07:00

One fall day the kids were outside playing in the leaves so I decided to go take some pictures of them. We had so much fun! It was such a nice Fall day.

I told the kids to gather leaves and throw them at me. they thought it was so funny that I told them to throw leaves at me. it didn't take them long to gather up and toss the leaves at me.

This is what we got, me covered in leaves and a few sticks. I might add this is a self portrait. not to bad if I do say so myself.

Bennett got one stuck to his, well.... booger nose.

Happy Halloween!

2012-01-13T12:18:00.000-07:00

Halloween lasted for two days this year. Bri and I took the kids to trick or treat down the street in Idaho falls the night before Halloween. Many of the business owners set up down in trailers down a street. It was crazy with so many people. The kids loved it and they got so much candy. Every Trailer loved Bennett they told me he was the cutest boy ever. I have to say I agree with them. He knows how to bring on the charm. At the Wendy's trailer they were giving out free fries but Kenidee does not like fries. The man handing out the coupons said to Kenidee here is a coupon for free fries she looked at him and said I don't really like french fries. The man looked at me in disbelief and I just shook my head, and told Kenidee to tell him thank you anyway. Before I could tell her that the man had gone into the trailer to get her a frosty coupon. Before he handed it to her he asked her do you like frostys? she was so excited! What a spoiled little girl.

At the trick or treat down the street Eli was a puppy. He looks so much like Bennett here. Eli was so good and just rode in the stroller. I think he is the cutest thing ever.

Halloween night we have a tiger a dinosaur and a alligator oh my! Halloween night we went to Justen and Bri's wards trunk or treat then over to my moms for some good ole door knocking. Robin got home from work just in time to take the kids. I think Robin loves it more then the kids do. He drags them all over town. :)

Eli and I just stayed at my mom's to help hand out candy. I love his crazy hair.

Rebecca and her Very OWN garden Gnome

we also were visited by DEB and Pedro! I love that they always dress up.

Garden gnome and her littlest cousins. Eli and Maybri

Papa Glen and little miss maybri! she is such a doll..

These got a little out of order but Kenidee and Mitch at trick or treat down the street

Bennett got sick of walking to all the trailers and just wanted to ride in the stroller and eat his candy!

Pumpkin Carving

2012-01-13T09:16:00.000-07:00

We had a little pumpkin carving party at our house. My parents, Rebecca, and Justen and his family came over. The kids have so much fun together.

Kenidee and her best ewwww pumpkin guts face. Don't let her fool you she LOVED it!

I LOVE Mitchell's EWWW Face. He is such a funny boy.

Robin and Bennett gutting his pumpkin. Robin is really good at carving pumpkins Bennett wanted Mike Wazowski, and Robin did a really good job.

Scary Faces! AAAAAGh!

Maybri, Mitchell, Kenidee, Eli, and Bennett with all our SCARY Jack-o-lanterns.

SCARY!!!

Witches Night Out

2012-01-13T08:23:00.000-07:00

My Aunt Shauna had begged us for Years to come down to Utah to go to Witches Night Out at Gardner Village, last year was our first year, and we LOVED it. So it has become a tradition to go down for Witches night out. What is Witches night out? Well.... it is 2 nights where everyone dresses up as witches and goes shopping and eating and looking at other witches. People go all out. It is so fun! So the first night we took the little girls. They got all dressed up as little witches. This was Kenidee's first time at witches night out, she was so excited that is all she talked about for days before. Not only was she excited to go to witches night out but she was super excited to get to go and play with Sydnee for 3 whole days.

2 of the cutest witches I know.

Some of the witches walking into the night of festivities. they really look amazing!

Kenidee was so excited! She loved looking at all the different witches!

Sydnee was super excited too. This girl loves to pose. She kills me.

This is one of the Witch royalty. Amazing!

There was a little dance party and Kenidee LOVES to dance It was so cute to watch her up with all the other little witches shaking it!

Kenidee and Aunt Rachelle.

Sydnee Kills me! she did this all by herself. no coaching!

A witch isn't a witch without some sparkle!

Aren't they SO cute! I sure think so. As my aunt and I were waiting in line for our face paint a lady told me that I have really cute girls! HA! I guess they do look enough alike that they could pass for sisters.

Saturday night we left the little girls home and the grown ups went to witches night out. this night we got a little dressed up. We by no means were dressed up like most of the other witches there. We still love it. As an added bonus my Best Friend from College, Heather, moved from Texas to Utah a few weeks before so she came with us. YIPEE! I missed that girl.

I love that my Grandma Luana even gets into it! she looks so dang cute!

All of us witches ready to go!

Kenidee didn't really want me to go! kind of heart breaking but she sure did have fun with Sydnee while we were gone.

I love this picture too. Sydnee is such a good little reader and was reading Kenidee a bed time story.

We love going to witches night out. I can't wait to go again next year!

Six months

2011-11-04T07:45:00.001-06:00

I can not believe that my little guy is getting so big. It makes me so sad that babies grow up so fast. Eli is such a good baby. He cries when he is wanting to eat or when he is being "loved" by his big sister or brother. He still has no teeth, but is working on them. He can get to where he needs to go, and crawls like crazy. When he was learning how to crawl he would push up on his hands then stand on is feet, I thought for sure one day he would just get up and walk. Eli will not take a binki Sometimes it drives me crazy, but I am glad I guess that he has not interest in it. . When Kenidee and Bennett are playing and running around Eli gets sad and tries to keep up with them.

I was trying to take Eli's pic and when I took it I looked at him and said Hey do you have something in your mouth! sure did. It does not matter how much I vacuum he still finds something to put in his mouth.

Getting loves from the best big sister ever. Oh and look at this babies Thighs love them.

first snow of the year

2011-11-04T06:56:00.002-06:00

October 6 was the first snow fall of the year.It is kind of family tradition that when the first snow falls we get to play Christmas music that day, but then not again until after Thanksgiving. It snowed quit a bit and was perfect snow man building snow. HEAVY and wet. My poor little maple tree still had all it's leaves on it and its little branches were so heavy. When I looked out the front door it's branches were laying on the ground, thank goodness they weren't broken off. Needless to say I was a little frantic. I knew at any minute my little tree's branches would break off. So my hero (Robin) went out and shook all the snow off the tree. He was soaked and cold when he got back in, but I think he saved little maple tree's branches from any permanent damage.

Kenidee and Bennett had so much fun playing in the snow. Kenidee rolled and rolled snow to make a snowman. Bennett well.... he just rolled and rolled. They were both outside for a long time. When they finally decided that they were wet and cold, they came in to enjoy a hot cup of hot chocolate.

In a day or two the snow had melted and Kenidee and Bennett were both a little sad but soon we will have snow until June!

Reading

2011-10-31T10:34:00.004-06:00

My kids LOVE being read to. They will let anyone who is willing read to them. I think papa Bear has a million hours reading to Kenidee. Rachelle was reading to them the other night and I thought it was so cute how Kenidee and Bennett were sitting all over Rachelle.They sure do love her and Rachelle is so good to them.

Now Kenidee is learning to read and can read some books. This night I found her reading to Bennett, I had to go do something quick and put Eli with them when I came back Kenidee was reading to her brothers. She is such a good sister and is so excited to be READING!

A surprise guest

2011-10-27T09:23:00.000-06:00

On September 19 we had an expected guest. GRANDPA WRIGHT! Grandpa Wright is Robin's grandpa, and Bennett's name sake. We don't get to see Grandpa Wright very often maybe once a year. We got a phone call saying he was in Idaho falls and wanted to come and see us. He had never met Eli. We had a good visit. It was a short visit but we were so glad that grandpa made time to come and see us. We love you Grandpa Wright.

Sitting Up

2011-10-27T07:04:00.001-06:00

On September 11 Eli started sitting up. He is getting so big his 6 month sats are:

16 lbs 12 oz 25 and a half inches long and his head is 16and a half inches. Eli is getting so big. He LOVES his daddy. As soon as Robin walks in the door he is all smiles. He is now rolling and crawling all over the place. He still does not have any teeth. We call him toothless. Other nicknames he has been given is Thor, Orangutan (thank you meter maid in Rigby) Eli has really crazy hair. Kenidee and Bennett love having a little brother and are good helpers. They do so good at making him laugh. The only sad thing is that Eli is growing up so fast.

Eastern Idaho State Fair

2011-10-11T09:48:00.001-06:00

Oh the Blackfoot Fair... I love going. I love taking my kids. This year we were on a tight schedule because Robin had to be back for work so we didn't get to do a lot of things we normally do. that is okay we had lots of fun. My Mom took care of Eli that was so nice not to have to worry about him and both Kenidee and Bennett could ride in the stroller.

This little train was pulled by a four wheeler around this lot. I thought it was going to shake the kids right out of the barrels. Kenidee and Bennett LOVED it. It was the best $4.00 we spent all day.

Kenidee's favorite part of the Fair is the petting Zoo. She LOVES to feed the Goats. She love all animals, she has to get that from her JuJu. She would feed the goats right out of her hands. Bennett would rather have the goat eat out of the cup. He didn't like how it felt to have the goats mouth and tongue on his hands.

We could have left Bennett climbing on all the tractors all day long and he would have been the happiest boy around. In fact we were here looking and climbing on tractors for a long time. Funny thing Bennett would only get on the Ford Tractors. He Did not want to get on the other tractors.

Maybe next year we will be able to stay longer and do more. I still love the Fair and all the things to look at. It was a fun little family day. Oh and I want you to notice what Kenidee is wearing, she HAD to wear her boots because we were going to the fair. I love that girl.

First Day of School

2011-10-10T13:20:00.000-06:00

Well ... (Sigh) my Baby girl is in Kindergarten! She was so excited for school and to ride the bus. She didn't get to bed till really late the night before. I would like to compare the feeling to Christmas eve, waiting for Santa. Kenidee kept getting out of bed needing something.

I vowed I would be okay and not cry, all morning I got close a few times, but I was happy she was going to school. She LOVED Pre-school. I was so excited for her.

Then I walked Kenidee to the BUS STOP! ( GULP) Growing up I didn't ride the Bus till I was in Middle school. I just couldn't not imagine my little girl getting on that HUGE yellow bus. I was so glad that our neighbor Kiah was there to help her. Kenidee told me that Kiah even walked her to her class because she couldn't remember where to go. I LOVE Kiah for taking care of my girl.

Watching Kenidee get on the bus is when I LOST it! Really I thought I was going to be okay but nope. About the time Kenidee stepped on the bus her mommy started to cry. I knew that she was going to be okay but she is so little and that bus is so big. I cried as I walked home but I was okay after that. When Kenidee got home from school I asked her how her first day of Kindergarten was and she said to me"MOM!! GUESS WHAT? THAT BUS HAS NO SEAT BELTS!" Whenever anyone asked her how school was that is what she told them.

COUSINS!

2011-10-10T09:39:00.000-06:00

Nick and Kari came to visit in August. The kids had so much fun. For the three days they were here the kids swam, played dress up, and barbies. Over and over and over. If they were outside playing and decided to swim then they would just take off there cloths and start swimming, when we would tell them to put on a swim suit it just didn't matter who's swimsuit it was they just got one on. These kids only see each other about once a year but I LOVE how when they do see each other they act like they just saw each other last week. Kari and I sware Kenidee and Ellie share a brain sometimes. Even though they live so far apart from each other they have the same ideas about things, or do the same things. For example when Kenidee and Ellie were about 2 or 3 Kenidee told me that her and Ellie were going to Disney Land on Rocket(from little Einstein's) Well when Kari and I talked one day we told each other what our girls were saying. They do things like that all the time.

While they were here we decided that we should take pictures of all of them together. Well It is hard to take pictures of 6 kids 5 and under. I am going to have to learn to do some head swapping but I think they are okay. Maybe when we go to Washington in November we can try again.

I was really bad at taking pictures of the kids playing, but the ones I do have I love. Miss Lexie and Bennett were drinking blue Gatorade and Lex says to me "Aunt Stephie, Bennett has a blue mouth. He is so messy" So I had to go get my camera so Lexie could see that she had a Messy face too.

I got to meet my Niece Lila! Isn't she so cute!

Tyra Jr. Miss

2011-09-12T09:24:00.000-06:00

The First of August my Mom, Rachelle and I got to go down to Utah to see my cousin Tyra in her Jr. Miss (its not called that anymore but I can't remember what it is called.) A little back ground on Tyra and I. Shauna (tyra's mom) and I joke that I raised her. I did almost until they moved to Utah. When I went to College Tyra would come and stay the night with me. One time Shauna didn't get there in time to get Tyra and I had to take her to class, I think she was about 4 or 5. I packed her a sandwich, and a coloring book and crayons, but she needed a drink, and to say the least photography class was just not made for a 5 year old.

I am not sure if this was the same time but I was taking Tyra home after staying with me and I ran out of gas. She was dead asleep in the back seat and wouldn't wake up so I carried her a mile or so to find a phone.( this was before everyone in the world had a cell phone)

I would spend summers by the fire pit in their back yard while Tyra and Ethan acted out movies for me.

When I left to do my student teacing in Washington I think she was 10, she made me this blanket, it is beautiful! So I guess what I am trying to say is that Trya and I have a special bond. She is more than my little cousin. So....

We had to rent a car because my mom's car was hit and she had not yet got her a new one. When the lady behind the desk told us all they had left was a chevy traverse I almost jumped for joy. I love that car. That car was my "baby" the rest of the trip. When we had to give the keys back I didn't even make her pry the keys out of my hands. :) Anyway... We got to the Eckersell home in time to help Tyra get her hair and make up done. It was so fun to help her. Rachelle and went to the school early to help her get all situated but she really didn't need much help she had an amazing stage mom who took awesome care of her. Tyra had a whole cheering section, it was so fun to see her all dressed up and to hear her play the piano WOW! she is so good. When it was all said and done Tyra was proud of her self and so were the rest of us. She did so good, and I might add she go the most flowers out of anyone on stage. It was so fun to get away and to go and support Tyra.

i'm FIVE

2011-09-08T22:46:00.000-06:00

August 11 my baby girl turned 5! I can not believe it. She is so grown up, and a bit sassy. She is so excited to be able to go to kindergarten this fall. Kenidee is a big helper, she helps with her brother all the time. She loves to have"pageant hair" (curly hair). She loves dress up and riding her bike with only 2 wheels. ( a new trick she learned this summer) She never wears shoes she is a bit like her mommy that way. She loves strawberry milk, and to make her own concoctions they usually contain of a little milk, chocolate sauce, and some strawberry milk powder. she LOVES it.

This year for her birthday she had a few request... first of all she wanted a rainbow Carmel corn cake and ice cream. Then for her birthday she wanted a lamp, and a night stand, table and chairs for her birthday. Don't most 5 year olds ask for barbies and my little ponies. So trying to be a good mom Rebecca and mastered the cake,and Robin sculpted the number 5 on top.Kenidee thought the cake was amazing, just what she wanted she even told me it looked like a wedding cake.

when I was growing up my parents always got pictures of us blowing out our candles, some of the faces we would pull would be so funny. So here we go Kenidee blowing out her birthday candles.

This is the lamp my sweet girl requested. With the idea from my friend Kristin and help from the ladies at the ribbion retreat and Rachelle it turned out Soooo cute. I spray painted the lamp pink to match her room and covered the shade with cute fabric, that also matched her room.

Kenidee really wanted to invite our new neighbors over for her birthday. These girls have so much run together.

Kenidee loves Michael. He teases her until she can hardly stand it, but they have an agreement if she tells him with out whinning to stop or she does not feel like being teased then he grants her wish. Uncle Rod and Desi they are always so much fun. Almost everytime Rod sees Kenidee he gives her what he calls a million kisses, and kisses her all over her face. she loves it.

Kenidee's night stand and table. she loves it.

The cake really is beautiful, thank you aunt Rebecca I couldn't have done it with out you.

This is my Grandma in the yellow and her little sister Coleen. It was so cute. Grandma was reading this book her coleen. I just thought it was adorable. Aunt coleen is holding Baby Hayden.

Bennett became a cowboy at the party. He was being so cute. Riding around on his stick horse with his floppy cowboy hat.

Bennett loved to make people laugh.

Kenidee my darling

2011-09-07T23:49:00.000-06:00

Kenidee is so funny. she loves to have her picture taken but she has to do what she wants to do. So it takes me awhile to get a good one of this silly girl. This day I just thought she looked super cute and starting to be so grown up. love

Bennett is learning to wink.... If I do say so myself he is so cute, messy face and all.

Fourth of July!

2011-08-14T08:21:00.000-06:00

We love the 4th of July! I love looking for cute 4th of July outfits for my kids. :) It was so fun to have JuJu here with us, she loves the 4th of July here just as much as we do.She has come over for the fourth for the last few years.We love having Ju Ju with us we just don't get to see her enough.

We also got a special treat this year, Uncle Chris (robins brother) came over and we got to meet his "friend" Megan! It was a short trip for them in fact I think they were here less then 18 hours but it was worth it; well to us.The day was super fun we started it by going to lunch with Robin's family at Red Robin.Then I took the kids home and Robin and his family went to find an air conditioner for the house, it was hot and because we don't have a basement to escape to it was almost more than Judy to bear. I have LOVED that little window unit, it does and amazing job. THANK YOU!

Then it was off to Menan to the parade They hand out Chocolate Milk, umm what else do you need on a hot day but a cold chocolate milk? It was so hot I had to go find some shade for Eli and I he was just too hot. What I saw of the parade it was so cute and small town, just how I like it.

Bennett and Juju enjoying the parade. Bennett just does not like loud things like Fire Trucks. So he was just happy to be with his Juju.

Little Eli before we retreated to a little shade. I love his little hat!

Kenidee waiting for the parade to start! I love that she will still let me put mondo bows in her hair. I think she is SOOO cute.

I love love love this picture! My kids don't get to see there uncles very often. this was Chris's first time seeing Eli. Megan sent me this picture and I am so glad she did. Did I mention I love it!

Megan and Eli. It was so fun to meet Megan, we have heard so much about her and it was nice to finally put a face to the name. I just hope we get to know her better.

See Eli loves Megan she even got a smile out of him:)

Bennett & Kenidee waiting for the Fireworks to start. It seemed like it took forever. While we were waiting Kenidee ran into her friend Trevor from pre-school. She adores him. When I pointed him out she just stared at him and ask if she could go talk to him. Trevor seemed a little overwhelmed by all the "love" she was giving him but soon they were laughing and talking and having races. She has missed that boy.

Bennett was so tired but when the fireworks started he sat on the blanket with his ears covered and watched, so I guess he loved them. It might have been mixed feelings.

In between the parade and the fireworks we went home for naps and to cool off. Juju sat in the end of the pool and requested there not be pictures taken of her. (your wish is my command) Kenidee had fun jumping in the pool, and swimming around. Others (Chris) wanted a tan, and was very content on sitting in the sun.

A little side note: See the little bruise on Kenidee's leg. It is from her shots for kindergarten. She walked around like an old lady for days. poor thing.

Kenidee and her Uncle Chris. I am so happy my kids warmed up to him so fast. They loved him and they had fun with him while he was here. Chris also brought with him some amazing fireworks. we didn't have time to do them while he was here but we did enjoy them a few days later. Thanks Chris.

It was a fantastic day, I loved having some of Robin family here. Even though we live so far away from them I really want my kids to have a relationship with their grandparents, uncles, aunts, and cousins. It is going to be hard but I want to do everything I can do so they know and love all of Robins family. I think I have my work cut out for me.

Oh what do you do in the summer time?

2011-07-11T08:50:00.001-06:00

We have been having such a fun summer. The weather has finally started to get nice so we have been outside a lot. So our Blog has been lacking, but I hope to get all caught up soon. Here is what we did the month of June.

I have had the hardest time keeping this kid dressed. Every time I turn around he is NAKED, and playing in the back yard. Thank goodness for a fenced in back yard. I worried about him getting on and off the tramp but he seems to do just fine.

Bennett is so cute! I say be naked while it is still cute to be naked right?

Kenidee Loves the water too. We had not gotten a pool yet so the next best thing is a huge puddle at the end of the slide.

Kenidee has been practicing how to wink. I think she getting good at it.

Kenidee lives in her swim suit. I am surprised that her swim suit matches this day. She usually mixes and matches her tops and bottoms. She does not care as long as she can be in her swim suit, and out in the sun and water.

Still cute to be naked and play in the water.

Aunt Rachelle often comes over and helps keep me sane. She is so good with my kids. Bennett was so happy to help feed Eli, even if it was sitting in the middle of the kitchen.

Bennett has been very attached to his binky, one night we just couldn't find one so he went to bed with out it. A friend of ours gave us a little bike it needed a few parts, so we went to get the parts for it and it ended up being just as much to get a new little bike. So Bennett's reward for giving up his binky was a new "big boy" bike. He loves it he goes so fast. This is the second day he had his bike and he found a puddle across the street, he rode back and forth in that puddle for a long time. Bennett was loving every second of it. For the next few days when he woke up he would come in my room and ask me if he could go ride his big boy bike. He is still working on stopping, he just runs into whatever to stop. Bennett keeps us all laughing and smiling.

We have an empty lot next to our house. Kenidee loves to go out and pick "flowers."

We went for a picnic with Justen and his family. The kids just ran and played they would all hang on to this branch, Bennett was on the end and when Kenidee and Mitchell would let go Bennett would get lifted up so he couldn't reach the ground.

I love this picture. It was taken on flag day. To raise money the Scouts in our ward come and put up and take down flags on holidays. I love it! The roads in our subdivision are lined with flags. It is beautiful really. So Bennett escaped this morning when I went out to find him he was standing under the flag just watching it wave in the breeze.

2 month check up (a month late)

2011-07-07T08:16:00.000-06:00

We took Eli for his 2 month check up 11 lbs 13 oz 22 inches long. his head is 15 in. Eli has been holding up his head more , and has started "talking" and smiling. Most nights he sleeping from about 9:00pm to 5 am,and then goes back to sleep for a few more hours. Eli usually sleeps better when Robin is home for the night, and he loves to sleep on his tummy, and talking to Kenidee and Bennett. Eli has come close to rolling over. One day I think he would have if my leg wouldn't have been in his way. It is so fun to see his personality come out.
We also took Bennett for his check up and he is 29 lbs 35 1/2 inches long. Bennett gives us a run for our money! He is so busy! From the second he wakes up he is moving, talking and singing! He loves to "fix" things. This often makes things for someone else to fix. Bennett loves being outside, cars, trains, planes, anything with wheels really. He is a BIG tease, I think he loves to hear Kenidee squeal.

Memorial Day

2011-06-24T15:56:00.000-06:00

Memorial day this year was so cold, wet and the wind blew like crazy. Robin and Eli didn't even get out of the car. It was just too cold for a baby. Kenidee and Bennett and the other cousins didn't see to mind that it was FREEZING outside. They all ran and played. I didn't get to many pictures of this day I wish I would have taken pictures of the flower arrangements my grandma, mom and Rebecca made. They were beautiful. I love memorial day it reminds me of when I was a kid. We would all go to Aunt Bettys and tons aunts and cousins would make floral arrangements the Sunday before. I loved how the garage would smell. When they were all done we would load up a funeral home van with the dozens of arrangements. I loved how all the flowers looked tight together in boxes until the next day.

Memorial day also meant new outfits. I loved getting a memorial day outfit. Sometimes all the cousins would match or we all just looked all spiffy in our new summer outfit. After we would visit both the Rigby and Annis Cemeteries and see cousins we don't see all the time. After we were done cleaning stones and placing flowers and watching the flag ceremony, we were off to a picnic at a park or in the back yard or inside depending on the weather. I just love all the memories I made with my family during this day.

Rebecca had the right idea of what to wear this fine day. I wish I would have thought of it.

Eli's Blessing

2011-06-12T08:44:00.000-06:00

We blessed Eli on May 22,2011 It was such a nice day, and so good to have our families with us. The men who stood in the circle were Robin (who gave the blessing) Grandpa Glen,Grandpa Skip,Great Grandpa Bruce, Uncle Clair, Uncle Terry (who surprised us and came up for the blessing I was one happy girl) Uncle Justen, Uncle Randy and Bishop Dunn. After the blessing we went to Grandma Luana's and Papa Bears to have a little lunch. It was a perfect day. We are so blessed to have Eli in our family, he is so sweet and is growing and getting so big. We love you Eli.

When I saw this picture it was so strange to see all of us together I feel like we are such a "big" family. Really there are five of us!

Most of the men that stood in the cirlcle. Terry Great-Grandpa Bruce, Papa Skip, Robin, Eli, Papa Glen, Justen, and Randy.

Grandma Shauna and Papa Glen

Papa Skip and Juju came from Washington to be with us on this special day. We love having them come to visit. It is sad that they live so far away so we don't see them enough, so when they come it is a party.

Robin with Eli

Eli's Uncle Chris has a hard time keeping his tounge in his mouth for pictures so this one is for you Uncle Chris.

Some of our family that came to celebrate with us.

Preschool Graduation!

2011-06-10T23:48:00.000-06:00

Kenidee loved Pre-school. She had such good teachers and she made such good friends. She learned a lot and we learned so many new songs in our house. Kenidee got to go on field trips to so many places, she went to the dentist, to a pumpkin patch, the airport, a nursery, to a nursing home to "sing for old people" the library, fire station, and a snow day. I know I am missing some but she loved every second of preschool.

Kenidee misses pre-school, in fact today she asked me if I would pretend she was gone to school and we could go and "get her" from school just so she could see if someone was there. She gets a little emotional and a little teary that she hasn't seen her pre-school friends in such a long time.

At Graduation I was going to film the whole thing but I flip froze after 11 min and I had to take out the batteries, and I guess the camera didn't save it. I was so sad but I did get a few short shots of her graduation. I loved watching her sing and say her few parts. Kenidee had to say what she wanted to be when she grows up (she wants to own and ice cream shop) and recite the nursery rhyme little miss muffit with anther girl in her class.

After graduation we had to let Bennett "graduate" he thinks he is so big. He went up and sat in the chairs up front until we pretended to give him a certificate. Then papa Glen took us to a nice lunch at Broulims deli. It was just perfect. I can not believe that my baby girl is done with pre-school and off to kindergarten. I have had my few good cries. I can only imagine what this fall is going to be like letting my baby girl get on the big yellow bus all alone and go so far away to school. I think I might be a big mess that day.

Dancing to my favorite song ball in the jack. she does this so cute!

oh paris!

2011-06-10T22:57:00.000-06:00

This would be so fun to win! I need some sort of vacation:)

2011-05-25T14:42:00.000-06:00

Eli at 3 weeks old and his first bath at home. He loves to have a bath. We now have baths in the bathtub. Eli seems to like that more.

Bennett my little Super Man boy! That is what he calls himself. He loves to have a brother If I am ever holding Eli, Bennett has to come and climb right on me and ask Eli if he is okay or if he is happy. I am scared one day to think that they will be partners in crime.

I was busy doing something and when I walked back into the kitchen this is what I found,Well with Bennett on the counter, scooping and scooping formula into a glas of water. I was so irritated at him. He must not know yet that formula is like Gold!

Easter Weekend

2011-05-06T21:46:00.000-06:00

Easter Weekend started with the traditional Rigby Easter egg hunt. Before the Easter egg hunt started Bennett just wanted to play at the park. I had to hold him at the starting line so he would be able to even do the Easter egg hunt. Bennett went straight for all the salt water taffy. Kenidee was so confused by the mass of children she didn't really know what to do. I think she picked up one piece of candy. :)

Bennett playing on the tub at the park. He loves being outside.

Then after the Easter egg hunt it was off to Grandma Shauna's for a special Easter egg hunt for all the kids to find kites that aunt Rebecca "got"for them. She is such a good Aunt. We also did some egg dying Mitchell and Kenidee couldn't not get the eggs in the dye fast enough. I think that was the fastest egg dying I have ever seen.

Rachelle working on a special spoon to make it easier for the kids to dye the eggs without cracking every egg they put in the dye.

Easter morning was a little different Robin had to work so we had Easter morning without daddy. Bennett woke up first and ate all the candy on the floor that the Easter bunny had left. Kenidee work up and found all the other candy.

The only ouc of Eli easter morning. I am sure he loved his new outfits.

Kenidee finding easter candy, that Easter bunny loves to hide things all over high and low.

Some in just plain sight.

Beautiful easter dresses and handsome little boys. I think they looked so cute!

Bennett is such a ham. He loves to have is picture taken, and he is so dang handsome.

2 weeks old

2011-04-20T08:46:00.001-06:00

Eli was two weeks yesterday.(It was actually his due date) I can't believe that he has been with us for two whole weeks. He is a sweet little guy, and for the most part a good sleeper for a new born. At his 2 week appointment he was 8 pounds 3 oz. almost back up to his birth weight, and still 20 inches long. He hates to get his diaper changed and cries and cries. Bennett is always there telling Eli to be happy and not to cry. Mommy will fix it. I hope one day they are the best of friends.
It is quite the adjustment to three, but I have had lots of help from my sisters and my niece Andria. I haven't had to be alone at night while Robin is at work. That makes me so happy. The hardest part is making dinner, for some reason all the kids are so cranky and crying. I don't have enough hands to keep them all happy.I am usually making dinner with someone hanging on my leg or something. I am sure that skill will come in time.
Even though it is hard, and quite the adjustment, we love Eli and love having him in our family.

What have we been doing for the last 12 days

2011-04-17T09:28:00.000-06:00

We have been sleeping.

Watching

Smiling

Growing

I love that he holds his hands like this.

Kisses lots and lots of kisses!

Loves and hugs

More kisses!

I love this picture. Kenidee was so excited that he was holding on to her finger. She is such a good big sister. Kenidee is the official wipe warmer and she sings to him all the time. She just all around loves him so much.

And just being way to cute for words.

Robin bought these sunglasses for Bennett so he would stop wearing his sisters. I love them!

Dress up and parties

2011-04-17T07:59:00.000-06:00

When my sister Elizabeth comes to town it is ALWAYS a party. We may not always do much but we always have so much fun and stay up way to late. We end up with ornery kids and sleep deprived parents but I LOVE whenever she and her kids get to come up to see us. Last month Elizabeth came up for a baby shower my Aunt Paula threw for me. (that was great) I decided that one night that Liz was here we would do girls night craft night so that is what we did. While us girls were doing crafts the little girls (I thought) were playing dress up. Then into our lives came this cute little pinked haired fairy. Kolby tried to not let us take his picture but he really wanted us to. The kids had so much fun together and played with every single toy in Kenidee's room.
I know that some of the pictures aren't that great or clear but I loved how it kind of shows how crazy things were at my house that night.

A few more pictures

2011-04-09T15:40:00.000-06:00

Well we are home! I am so grateful that I wasn't in the hospital for 10 days this time. I wish I could have brought home some of the nurses to help me out now.... they were so great. I am still really sore and tired. Bennett loves eli but I don't think he knows that it is HIS baby brother. Whenever he sees Eli he says oooh so cute baby hayden or maybri. I think we need to have a little get together and have all three babies there then maybe he will get it. Kenidee has not been home, she had a sleep over at grandma's last night and is just enjoying being with her best buddy(Rebecca) and her grandma shauna.
When we left the hospital he weighed 7 pounds 10 oz. Last night was our first night home and Eli was a hungry boy. He was awake about every hour and a half ready to eat. He did go one 3 hour stretch, whew thank you Eli. The nurses in the nursery told me that he was a night owl and sure enough he sure is. Right now he is sleeping and has been asleep for about 3 hours. So we will see how that goes.
I am so thankful for my family and how much they have sacrificed to help me the last few weeks. My mom has been watching the kids all day and Rebecca comes and stays with them at night. Rebecca came last night to stay with me and Bennett so I didn't have to worry and do more then I should.

First picture with our sweet little boy.

Moms first time holding Eli

First Feeding, Daddy makes everything taste so good. :)

Family of 5!

Such a proud big sister. Every morning(before eli was born)she would kiss my belly and tell me how much she already loved her baby brother.

New big Brother! He loves his little brother.

he is here!

2011-04-06T22:59:00.000-06:00

Eli Aaron was born April 5 at 1:37 pm. He weighed 8 pounds 4 oz and was 20 inches long. He looks a lot like his big brother. He was born with more hair then my other two kids. Robin and I are debating if it is red or not. When Eli is in the sunshine his hair looks very red. Eli is kind of a noisy baby so far he makes noise all the time, so I guess he will fit right into our little family
Kenidee is so excited to have a new baby brother but when she found out we were naming him Eli she called me and asked me why I was naming him that, and that she really wanted his name to be cartridge. I told her that if she wanted to call Eli Cartridge then I guess she could.
Bennett doesn't really understand that Eli is part of our family and that one day he will be coming home with us.
I so far am healing ok. We have run into a few technical difficulties, that may or may not be related to my last experience of a C-section. The Dr and nurses are really trying to help me avoid that this time.
Robin is trying to take care of me and the kids (with help of my family) go to school and work. He is one busy and tired dad, But no questions about it. Robin is the BEST daddy any kids could have.
When I start feeling better and take more pics I will post them.

Confrenence Weekend.

2011-04-03T16:15:00.000-06:00

I love Conference Weekend. not only do we get to hear the words of Prophets we get to hang out with family. For the last few years we invite my family over for popple popple and to watch the Sunday morning session. I will admit we may not hear everything going on in conference, but we do get to bond.
Well this year Rebecca decided to help Robin and I name our baby, everyone was given some paper and everyone got to put in a "vote" on what they thought we should name the baby. (we did do this after conference was over.)
So here is the list in the order that I drew them out of the dish
1. Digger Skippy (my dad's nickname and robins dad)
2. Kelvin Aaron
3.Carson Glen
4. Poo poo Kaka pee pee shire or frank (some people never grow up)
5. Jackson
6. Seth Danen Robert Markham
7.Gunner
8. Roger
9.Dexter Aaron
10. Eli
11. Cartridgec (kenidee's she even wrote it herself I need to scan her paper.)
12.Harrison Aaron
13.Moses Aaron
14. Stirling Aaron
15. Reese Aaron
16.Tinker (Mitchell)
17. Everret
18. Greg
So as you can see I have quite the list to choose from. Thank you family for all your help.
Also our favorite quote of the day.
The kids were outside playing and Bennett ran inside crying "mommy I'm bleeding!" So he climbed up on my lap and I loved him then he hopped down. As he was running out the door he yelled to the kids " I'm better! I'm better! Don't hit me AGAIN!"

not long now

2011-04-01T08:28:00.000-06:00

This week has been a busy one. I have had a headache for a week, when I went to my last Dr. appointment my blood pressure was high,so they did blood work and ordered a 24 hour urine test. (so fun) Before they let me leave the Dr. office my blood pressure had to be down or it would have been off to the hospital. Thank goodness it went down and I was able to go home on a take it easy order.
Later that afternoon the Dr. office called and they decided to put me on blood pressure medication. I had been sick so Robin was worried that it would make me dehydrated. He called the Dr and told them that I had been sick and the Dr. decided that I should go to the hospital for more tests and a possible delivery of a baby.
Before we left Robin and Justen gave me a blessing. It is always nice to be reminded how much our Heavenly Father is aware of us and how much he loves us. After the blessing we were off to the hospital. When we got there they were waiting for us. We got all checked in, and monitors hooked up to me so we can see how the baby is doing and an IV in. They took blood and did tests. Now it was just a waiting game. The labs came back normal. I was sent home on strict bed rest.
Yesterday I talked to my Dr. and he had set up a C section for April 5 at 1:00. He said if we could wait till then the baby would have a 50 % chance of not having to be in NICU and not needing breathing assistance. If I do start having problems I am to head to the hospital and they will do a C section.
So here I sit on the couch waiting for the 5th, and hoping for a healthy baby boy. (still with no name!)

16 days

2011-03-27T10:33:00.000-06:00

The ticker on the side of my blog tells me I have 16 days until we have another baby in our house. This in a way makes me so nervous. I still feel like I have a ton to do before he gets here. Things that don't I guess really matter like getting walls, doors and base boards washed. Figuring out what I am going to do with my kids if I happen to have to stay in the hospital for days and days. Robin goes to school during the day and work at night. It is alot to ask someone to stay with your kids 24 hours a day.
I worry about things not going right for me and for the baby. I really shouldn't think of these things but I can't help it. Remembering how long it took me to heal from my last C-section, I will now have 3 kids to take care of.
In a way things just don't seem real, maybe because our lives are crazy, or maybe because I really don't have as much to do to get ready for him.( Get the baby cloths washed, get a few odds and ends and put up the bassinet).
This sweet baby boy does not even have a name. Not a one that Robin and I can agree on. By this time we at least have top two... this time not a one. Why this causes me stress I don't know. Naming my kids has always caused me stress.. that is the name people will call them, it is not like naming a fish or some other pet. It has to be perfect for them. Making sure that others can't make fun of their name or initials.
Don't get me wrong I am excited to have another baby. I know the timing for this baby is right. It may seem like crazy timing but I know that this sweet babies time is now. I know that when he is finally here I will not be able to picture my family without him in it. He will just fit in. I am so blessed to be able to carry a baby and to bond with this little man before anyone else.
I just pray that I will be able to teach him the things he needs to know to be a good person, to love the gospel, and to be close to his savior.

sick sick sick

2011-03-19T07:55:00.000-06:00

Thursday evening Kenidee started throwing up, and kept throwing up about every 15 min. till about 9:00. After that things kind of slowed down to throwing up every hour. I felt so bad for her. After throwing up the first time she said to me, "mom I don't think I have ever thrown up like this before." I would have to say she was right. She was such a sweet girl, I was getting her out of the tub after the first major throw up and she said to me "mom thanks so much for taking care of me and cleaning me up."

That night Robin had ot work and I was so worried that wouldn't hear her in the night, so I was going to sleep by her bed. Rachelle was over helping me do somethings and she suggested moving her mattress into my room and let her sleep on my floor. So that is what we did. Sleep over in my room.

Later that night I got up for one of my many bathroom breaks and it woke her up. Before I can start walking I have to let my walking parts "warm up" (the joys of being pregnant) Kenidee grabs my ankle and says mom I will help so you can make it to the bathroom. What a sweet girl she is.
A little later that night I started throwing up, and was sick all day yesterday. I called my mom to come help me the morning only to find out she was throwing up as well.
Kenidee started to feel a little better, but I was still so ache and sick. I just sat on the couch all day snoozing. While my kids took care of themselves. In the after noon Rebecca came over, for a "nurse run." Oh but don't think the women came over unprotected. She did not want to get what we all had.

Eckersell Family BABY BOOM!

2011-03-05T23:45:00.000-07:00

The Eckersell family has started experiencing quite the change it seemed like every family function we went to someone announced that they were expecting. It started with Lerin (my cousin)and her husband Brian, they announced they were having a baby in end in January. So February 2 we welcomed Baby Hayden.

Then I went to the dr. with bri (my sister in law) to get some meds change, and in order to change the meds she needed to have a pregnancy test. (They had been trying for a long time), I heard them tell Bri the test was positive I was out in the waiting room bawling, and I think Bri was in total shock. Well, we welcomed miracle baby Maybri March 2. She came the hard way but Heavenly Father blessed us with her and let us keep Bri as well. It was so scary. I fell in love with Maybri the second I saw her. She is so tiny and perfect.

Kenidee was so excited to see her new cousin. She would make up songs and sing about her new cousin baby Maybri. She was so happy that she got to hold her. While Kenidee was holding Maybri she would whisper to her that she loved her and that she was soooooo cute!

Kenidee took this picture of Justen holding Maybri. cute huh.

K so after this the next baby to be born will be our baby boy (still no name) on April 12 at 7:00 am (so weird to know that)

After our bundle of joy comes my cousin Jennifer Gardener's little boy the first of May.

Then the next baby will come first of June to my cousin Alex and Jake they are having a little boy, as well.

The end of July my Cousin,Braken's wife Dayna will have a baby, I don't know if they know what they are having yet.

Also in July My sister-in-law Kari (who is robins brothers wife) is expecting a girl July 24.

I hear the news of another baby in September but it is really new so... I will let them spread the news.

So For the Eckersell family that is 7 babies this year (8 for me!) The two that have been born have both been born on the 2nd of that month.

Another random fact so far all the blood cousins are having boys and the in laws are having girls.

I can't wait to see all the babies together. Right now it is kind of funny when we all get together at a family thing, all of our baby tummies are poking out. I love it.

I fixed it!

2011-03-05T16:56:00.000-07:00

This morning I got out of the shower to find Bennett playing with an old DVD player when I asked him what he was doing he looked at me and said "I'n fixing it!" then went back to plugging the wires in to the DVD player. When all the plugs were plugged in he jumped up and said "I fixed it!" he was so proud of himself.

My little trucker!

2011-03-02T15:29:00.000-07:00

Today Bennett hasn't felt so well but as soon as his meds started kicking in then he was being so happy, and so funny. He came out of his room with a towel wrapped around him and Kenidee's sunglasses on and was looking for his keys(my set of car keys) so he could start his truck. I think it is so funny how he loves to ride his truck. He is such a cute loving little boy, for the most part.
Right now he LOVES CARS! All day long I hear "KA-CHOW!" He has figured out how to start a movie for himself and it is always cars. He also loves trains. Thomas the Train is his favorite. He love to watch the cartoons on netflix. I think that it is such an annoying cartoon,so we try not to let him watch it very much.

We love this little boy and are so thankful he is with us.

baby #3 update.

2011-02-28T08:50:00.000-07:00

This pregnancy has been so very different. I don't know if it is because I have two children that keep me busy, and that our life right now is way past crazy. I haven't had to do any shopping (maybe I should) but I have boy things so... do I really need to go shopping. Even though I am huge and I feel him doing cartwheels inside of me. Having a baby well... it just does not seem real. Weird I know. Other then that by now I am usually on light bed rest by now because of pre eclampsia, and am swollen up like a balloon. My blood pressure looks really good and I have just normal swelling for a pregnant women. this in itself is just a blessing. I have to be able to take care of my family right now.
The thing that is so very different about this pregnancy is as of last week I am measuring 6 WEEKS big. Yes 6 weeks! The Dr doesn't see really very concerned and we will be doing and ultra sound at my next appointment in 3 weeks to measure the baby! I am worried this baby is going to climb out and start talking. Bennett was three weeks Early and weighed 8lbs 4 oz. I may be calling the Dr. today and ask if I can have an Ultra Sound before 3 weeks.
I also scheduled the C-section for April 12 at 7:00am. that to me is also strange to know exactly when he will be here. I know he will be here before I know it,and hopefully this little one will have a name.

Happy Birthday Robin!

2011-02-25T11:21:00.000-07:00

Robin Turned 32 yesterday! Kenidee was so excited about her dad's birthday. She told me she wanted to get him baseballs. Kenidee also picked out Robins birthday candles, the triangle ones are trick candles. they don't blow out. (shhhhhh don't tell) Robin didn't want cake he wanted apple pie and that made kenidee quite concerned that her dad didn't have a birthday CAKE.

Robin had quite the day, he worked the night shift the night before then came home ate a good breakfast of popple popple, and slept for about 2 hours then I had to leave for a Dr. appointment. He went to get Kenidee from pre-school then took the kids to my cousins, and he went to class. He got home that night just in time for his own party. I felt so bad for him. On top of all that Robin just isn't feeling well. Needless to say he left the party about nine after he put Bennett to bed(what a good daddy) and slept all night long. I bet that felt good. Then after that this morning he got up with the kids and let me sleep till 9:00 gosh it felt so good! thanks Robin. I love you.

A sleeping mask from my mom. (she also gave him a ladder for Christmas- birthday) Robin first tried to put it feet first. he was a bit confused, he wondered why his mother-in - law would get him that kind of a gift. (he is so funny) We were afraid that after he put it on, the right way, he would be asleep there in the chair. :)

Nesting

2011-02-23T07:20:00.000-07:00

Nesting is something I don't think I have ever experience. Sure I get things ready and get a few things here and there but I have never been in a clean out throw out kind of mood. Maybe it was our two days of sunshine but it started one day doing the dishes. Before I knew it I had the window and blinds cleaned standing on the counters wiping down the kitchen cabinets. My kitchen was so clean that day. it seems to never last long.
Then I went to Bennetts room. His room causes me stress. I have to figure out where to put this sweet new baby boy,and all the things that a baby brings. So I got a bin and put most of his toys in it. My goal was 5 toys in the room, and put the rest in garage,when they want something new they can trade it. Well... I need another bin for his room trucks and such take up so much room, but it does look so much better, and it is amazing how much better he plays. Bennett was with me while I tried to do this and anything I put in the bin he could scream "my train! it no go in box." and snatch it out. So I had to try to be sneaky and I did okay. His room still needs some work but I will have to do it when Robin is home so he can take Bennett somewhere so I can do what I need to do to make room for baby boy.
Yesterday while Kenidee was at preschool I cleaned out her room. We had talked about what 5 toys she wanted to keep in her room and she picked her ponies, barbies, littlest pet shop, dress up and her castle(this I think because it is a second house to her pet shop animals.) I did leave in all coloring books puzzles and books.
If I do say so myself her room feels so nice now. When she got home from school I showed her, her room and she said "oh mom it is so wonderful! thank you for such an amazing surprise." she just stood in front of her closet and smiled. That I did not expect. She made sure all of her 5 toys where there and not another word about what was missing. She played in there all afternoon. Coloring, playing pet shop whatever. To be honest I took a nap while she was playing.
She did really good picking up after herself, but before we went to bed I reminded her that if she wanted to keep her room nice and clean that at night if she picked up so it was clean it would stay nice. When she finished picking up a few odds and ends she laid on the floor and just giggled and said "I love my room!,and when I have someone spend the night they can sleep right here."
I am so excited that she is so happy with how her room feels and looks.

Valentines day Coookies!

2011-02-14T09:11:00.000-07:00

Last night we had my family over to decorate Valentines day cookies. It is so much fun. The kids get so messy and eat WAY to much sugar . It is so fun to have family over and create traditions.

Rod let his creative side go. He always makes us laugh.

Just so you all know Bri DID NOT Swallow this frosting. it would have sent her into a sugar coma. Not good for my neice.but She DID want to swallow. :) I guess the kids were not the only ones who got to much sugar.

A little help.

2011-02-14T08:49:00.000-07:00

This is why I NEVER get anything done. Anytime I start doing dishes Bennett is pushing a stool over asking if he can "help." His sweet help takes me twice as long to do dishes. He does not like to be wet so we have to take off all of his cloths. When Kenidee seees Bennett washing naked in his roos, she has to join in. At least it does keep them busy for about and hour!

who is a big boy?!

2011-02-05T14:59:00.000-07:00

We have been looking for a bunk bed for Bennett. We have looked all over the Internet, we looked for used ones, at outlets.we found this one in SLC at an outlet and it just worked out my mom and dad were going to be down there,so they pick it up for us. I really like it and it was not a bad price. We wont be putting up the top bunk until both boys need big boy beds. Bennett loves his bed he shows anyone who comes over his new bed. Now for our next trick bedding! I just can't find any that I really love, that we can afford and that will match his room. I can't wait till it all comes together.

Make up

2011-02-05T00:22:00.000-07:00

Papa Skippy and Ju Ju sent Kenidee a little get well gift and what was it you ask. well... it was MAKE UP and Kenidee LOVES it! We have all been glittery she is glittery and her pillow pet is a little glittery! It makes her happy. She is so stinkin cute! Thanks Papa and Ju Ju!

Loves to make sure she does not need more.

Then she closes the mirror and says "yep gorgeous!

Done with Dr.'s (we hope)

2011-02-02T11:29:00.001-07:00

Kenidee had Surgery yesterday to get her tonsils and her adenoids out. She was such a brave little girl. Before we went to the hospital I really wanted her to know what to expect. Thanks to her Dr. Terry Baker who gave her a book about a boy who was had the same surgery she was going to have. She was excited that she was going to be able to eat as she says "not healthy food" for awhile.

We had to be at the hospital at 6:30 in the morning. Kenidee is NOT a morning person (trying to get her up for preschool is a chore) After we got all checked in she was excited to change into her special hospital gown. Waiting for her on her bed was a coloring book and this stuffed animal. We have come to a conclusion that it IS a horse. She LOVED it.

The nurse told us that the anesthesiologist was going to come and talk to us and Kenidee says "hey I have that movie at home!" (Anastasia) Soon came in the anesthesiologist, he brought her in a mask that smelt like bubble gum and wanted her to play with it and practice putting it over her mouth and nose. Kenidee did not want to do that with him in the room. So after he left I tried to get her to do it, and she told me she wouldn't do it because it stunk. So they got her a new mask that didn't smell like anything.

Then they came in to get my baby girl, we walked behind them down the hall. Then the nurse pointed where we should go and they just kept going with my baby girl. I didn't even get to kiss her.... but it was probably for the best. Robin and I waited for about 30 min then we got a page to meet with the Dr. he told us she did really well and her tonsils were huge and she will feel so much better once she heals from the surgery. Soon after meeting with the Dr. we were able to go in and see her.

She was NOT a happy girl. Kenidee wakes up from surgery very emotional. She just wanted to go home and get that thing out of her arm. When I was taking pictures of her she looks at me and says "mom just don't show anyone those pictures." Once we got her calmed down and she had finished her IV and ate some grape slushy we were able to go home. The nurse brought in a little red wagon and the wheels were red and she wanted the one with white wheels, so the nurse got the other wagon. I wish I had my camera Robin had taken it out when he went to go get the car. anyway she was all bundled up in this wagon and her blanket it really did look so comfy.

Once we got home and she was able to rest she did just fine as long as we kept up on her drugs. I had to keep reminding her not to play and run, that the nurse told her to take it easy and just rest on the couch. By last night she had out done herself and was not feeling really well at all. It took her along time to fall asleep, good thing we were able to give her more drugs at 9:00 and she went to sleep. poor little one.

Last night Robin and I got up to giver her drugs:) she did so good. she was tired and her "neck" hurt but she always took all of her yuckie meds. At 5am I told her before I left her room that she was such a brave little girl and she said to me " I know."

So happy before surgery.

Things weren't so fun once we got out of surgery. Poor baby girl. I felt so bad for her.

Good thing she had that weird looking horse. she loved it.

Today things are a little better. We are going to make sure we stay up on her meds and plenty of rest, and contine to eat pudding and all sorts of "unhealthy food" In the livingroom, such a lucky girl. hopefully she will start feeling better soon.

The cutest Owl Aunt Becca made her. Something new to love!

see how happy she is. funny thing Aunt Rachelle and Uncle Randy gave her Owl PJ's and they didn't even know that Aunt Becca made her that stinking cute owl. We will keep you all posted on how my little pumpkin is doing.

the results are in.

2011-01-26T20:41:00.000-07:00

We heard from Kenidee's Dr. yesterday and things all look good and normal. I asked them what I was do about her UTI's they gave me a few basic things to do and I thought to myself, really we couldn't try this BEFORE I let you torcher my baby girl. Oh well... I am glad that things are good.
Today we went to another Dr. to see if Kenidee needed her tonsils out and we waited for about an hour and a half to have the Dr. walk in and look in her mouth to say "yep lets get them out!" talk to so and so at the desk and lets get that scheduled. have a good day.... really that was it. I waited that long for that. ooook so Kenidee will getting her tonsils out on Tuesday monring. why not right???

What else is new at the Markham home.... welll... let me give you a hint.
Knock knock? yep knock knock jokes, the same 5 or 6 over and over. Bennett loves the one that he made up all in his little head. it goes a little like this
Knock knock.
Who's there?
Grandma
Grandma Who?
Grandma Apple!
this is followed by a huge smile that seems to say I am funny huh, and laughter from everyone around.
He is getting so big and talks no stop. He is finally getting to maybe understand that we are having a baby. He looks under my shirt and says "it's not there!" then he pries my mouth open to maybe see if he can see it through my mouth. Still no baby!

what a brave little girl

2011-01-25T07:17:00.000-07:00

I wanted to write about Kenidee's VCUG before I forget. Not that I would forget this experience in a long time but still....
My biggest concern was when to start telling Kenidee about this test. I didn't want to tell her to early and have her be worried about it for weeks or days. I decided to tell her about it on Saturday. She had lots of questions and I tried to answer them as honest as I could. I wanted her to know what to expect. I didn't want to tell her it wouldn't hurt when it really would. She told me she was being shy about going (she uses the word shy when she is feeling nervous) I told her it was okay to be scared and nervous.
Sunday night I told her that PAPA and daddy were going to giver her a blessing before she went to bed. This was a good teaching moment for me. I got to explain to her what a blessing really is and that it is not scary, that a blessing will help us not be nervous. This was her first blessing that she was aware of what was going on. She asked me if she could sit on my lap while she got a blessing.
After I took her to brush her teeth and she said to me "mom when I was getting a blessing my heart felt warm and I kind of started to cry. Is that okay?" I was given another opportunity to teach my daughter what she felt was the Holy Ghost telling her that she was going to be okay and that what her daddy told her in the blessing was true.
The next morning we had to be at the hospital at 8:00 am. My mom came over and stayed with Bennett and let me take her car. (because Robin had to stay in Idaho Falls to go to school) When we checked in Kenidee was miss chatterbox. She was every ones new friend. She really enjoyed the fish tank in the waiting room.
Almost everyone we came in contact with told her that her hair or her eyes were so beautiful. After about the 7th person that told her that she said to me "mom why does everyone keep telling me that?!" We just have to keep teaching her to just say thank you. :)
So we went to the ultra sound first and it wasn't bad at all. The Tech was so nice and explained things to her and talked to her. Kenidee did what he asked her to do and at this time things weren't too bad.
Then came the hard part they moved us to the X-ray room. I was able to be in the room with her while they got her all ready to go. They showed Kenidee everything they were going to use including the catheter. When they showed her the catheter she said "oh such a cute little tube. I love it" She didn't "love" it for long.
The nurse came in bearing gifts chocolate milk two suckers and a teddy bear. While they put the catheter in of course it hurt and she didn't not like it one bit, but she did okay. Then things were just fine.
Because I couldn't be in with her I stood behind the "iron wall" but could see her and she knew I was there. I don't know if this was a good idea. They started to fill her bladder with dye and I could watch it on the screen back with me. When they asked her to go to the bathroom in a small tub she just wanted her mom. It became to be quite the challenge to get this little girl to go to the bathroom where she was. She was crying for me then the crying became screaming. I felt so bad and so helpless. I so bad wanted to run over to her and tell her it was okay, but I couldn't.
Kenidee could also see what was going on, on a screen above her head. The tech told her to make the "balloon" smaller she kept telling Kenidee that through all the screaming then Kenidee yelled at her "THAT IS NOT A BALLOON THAT IS MY BLADDER!" the Dr. in the room looked at the tech and said well she is right. :) it made me laugh. After running water and pouring warm water on her bum she finally started to go. I was so excited for her. To be almost done.
As soon as the machine was off I ran to my baby girl. I hate not being able to be with her. She was so red and splotchy.
We were given good news that her urine was not backing up into her kidneys, I will hear from her dr. today and we will get full results.
After the tests were done I had promised her that we could go to Target and get her anything she wanted.
Well the first thing she asked for was a huge doll house.... Okay not ANYTHING. She finally picked out a pet shop thing, and as we were walking to the front of the store she said to me mom you told me I could get one thing right.?Well that is why I picked out a toy with lots of things in it. She is a smart little girl.
Kenidee is doing really good she played with friends all day yesterday and is a little sore but she is just fine.

Adjusting

2011-01-14T09:35:00.000-07:00

Robin went back to school this week and starts a new job today. I am so thankful that he has a job and works so hard at school and at his jobs. It just takes alot of adjusting, lots of time being alone and stranded without a car. I love that when Robin is home he has decided that he will have all of his homework done before he come home so he has time to play with the kids and snuggle on the couch with me:) I know that him going to school will be best for our family, but right now it is hard.
The kids this week have been CRAZY. I guess they are starting to feel better. The other day I came out to the living room and Bennett had pushed the bar stool over to the fridge and was helping himself to whatever he could reach.
Bennett was in the tub this week and I asked him if he wanted to go to town with Grandma, he got this discusted look on his face and told me NO SANTA comes to town.
They have both cleaned out the under the bathroom sink and they sit under there with blankets and flashlights. I hear giggles and screams, who knows what they are imagining under there but they love it.
Kenidee loves her new primary teachers. I asked her who her new teacher are and she tells me Sister Berry and Braxton's mom! Braxton was in my primary class and kenidee is fascinated with him. She thinks he is cute and sooooo funny. Needless to say she is so excited to have "braxtons mom" as her teacher. Also at primary when she is asked to come up and help with something she never goes up. she tells them that she is too shy. What really to shy? So last week I was told that she went up to the front to help with singing time. Kenidee's preschool teachers have even told me that she tells them the same thing.
Kenidee is so excited about having another baby brother. This morning she got all concerned that we didn't have a name for the baby yet. ( I share the same concern) so she started helping me pick out names. Fred, Minnie mouse,Rudolph,another bennett or a boy named Kenidee? She is so helpful.

My poor baby boy!

2011-01-10T23:09:00.001-07:00

Poor Bennett. I have been trying to take him in to get his year shots (yes he just turned two) every time I would take him in he would have a fever or some other reason why he couldn't get shots. Last week I took him in because he has had a cough that started to sound really bad and sure enough he had croup. I had set up his wellness check up weeks ago.
So this morning was his appointment to get his shots, but he is still coughing. So I called the Dr's office and they said to bring him in and if he didn't have a fever he would get his shots. Today was our lucky day kind of. He didn't have a fever, but now he had to get 5 shots with 7 vaccinations his flu spray and a finger prick to test for led.
The rest of the day he played and ran. I really wanted him to do lots of that so maybe his legs wouldn't be so sore. Tonight the poor boy was miserable. He wanted a bath, he couldn't move his legs with out crying and holding them. In the tub he would try to get a toy only to cry " I can't do it!" I felt so bad. After I got him dressed and drugged I just held him till he was about to fall asleep. then tucked him in bed. I really hope he sleeps all night, but between his cough and his sore legs I just don't see that happening. It makes me so sad to see my normally happy boy crying and in so much pain. Hopefully it will be better tomorrow.
Bennett's 2year stats are: ht: 35 in wt: 27 lbs 14 oz and his head : 19 and a quarter. what a big boy I have. I love him so much.

Warming up

2011-01-08T08:10:00.001-07:00

The other day it was FINALLY warm enough for the kids to go play in the snow. They had so much fun making trails, snow angels, and trying to make snowmen and snow castles but the snow was just to old and fluffy. They did have alot of fun going down the slide. They were so happy to get out of they house. When they came in from the cold of course they wanted hot chocolate. While I was making hot chocolate Kenidee asked if she could also have an ice cream cone. Sure why not. So there were my red faced runny nose kids eating ice cream and drinking hot chocolate.

Don't let that sweet face fool you. He is one BUSY boy! Sweet yes but BUSY!

Static & reading in the dark

2011-01-07T09:54:00.000-07:00

Kenidee was playing Wii when I noticed that when she leaned forward her hair was a static mess. So funny!

At night we let Kenidee read in bed for awhile before she goes to bed. Well now she has a head lamp her eyes will no longer have to strain to see the pictures. she is so funny.

I am scared!

2011-01-06T20:52:00.000-07:00

Oh my little girl, what I am I going to do with her. In pre-school. Kenidee has a little friend, his name is... lets just call him T. Anyway Kenidee came home from school and told me she has a boyfriend. this is how the rest of our conversation went.
Me: what is a boyfriend?
K: It means that I like T and we are friends.
Me: that is what is should be while your little
K: what does boyfriend mean when you get big?
Me: you go on dates and. . . you can't have a boyfriend like that till your 20, and you guys are only 4.
K: oh no T is five.(big grin)
K: Can I marry T?
Me:Well you could but when you marry someone you have to love them and you have to be 30!
K Mom I do love T! I think he loves me too!
Oh my heck! I am in trouble. this girl is not even 5 yet.
On another note, we went to the Dr. again. Both the kids were coughing and Bennett's started sounding like croup. While we were chatting with the Dr. I told her I thought kenidee may have another uti. So we did a test and sure enough she does. She gets them all the time. So we are back on antibiotic and we have been scheduled for a voiding cystourethrogram (VCUG). It is not very fun and is quite painful for them. When the Dr. office told me this I was so scared, for her. We will go in the end of this month to have it done. I thought I was scared when we took her to get a cavity filled. Hopefully things turn out fine.
A few days after that she has another Dr's appointment with an ear nose and throat Dr. to see about getting her tonsils taken out. The poor thing.
I hate this part of being a mom. I wish I didn't have to do this to her. I know it is for the best and I know there are other moms out there dealing with more problems with their little kids than I am. I need to keep reminding myself how blessed I am. I

MERRY CHRISTMAS!

2011-01-04T17:22:00.001-07:00

I love Christmas! I love that Kenidee was excited bout it this year. We counted down days we made treats for the neighbors, saw Santa a few times. This is the only time of the year I love going and getting the mail to see all the Christmas cards from our friends and family.We hang them all on the pantry door so we can see them all season. Christmas day was so much fun. When we got home from Grandma Luanas we went out on the porch to give the reindeer some food and we found a box on our porch filled with gifts and some yummy jam and homemade rolls. It was a great surprise. I have no idea who it was, but they were so thoughtful of our family but I know they will be blessed for the kindness they showed my family. Thank you so much.

When we finally got the kids to bed, after 11:30, Santa came! Before I put Kenidee to bed I reminded her that when she wakes up she needs to come to our room. Well I guess Bennett didn't get that lecture because Christmas morning I woke up to him holding his remote control car that Santa brought saying "mom what this". so we went and woke up Kenidee so we could all enjoy Christmas morning together.

After we opened all of our gifts at home, we went to my mom and dad's for breakfast and gift opening there. It is kind of sad but Robin had to work on Christmas day, so that night he went to work and the kids and I went to Grandma Lu's for Christmas dinner and more gifts. I really didn't take any pictures that night. what was I thinking. Oh well. We got so spoiled from everyone this year. We are so blessed.

I Love my Christmas tree. It did get redecorated almost everyday. I had to let go of my OCD and just let it go.

SANTA CAME!

Dress up and a night gown for Kenidee and Remote control car and a Book of Mormon for Bennett.

It's so fluffy I could die!!!! A last min. request from a Little girl to Santa. That Santa always pulls through.

Learning how to use his remote control car.

So many fun things found her her dress up box I don't think she really got dressed for 3 days. she was always some sort of princess.

Sporting his new Sea Hawks hat from Aunt Kari and Uncle Nick and his cousins.
the toy he is playing with is from JuJu and Papa Skip. he loves that thing! more boy toys

Sometimes waiting for Everyone to come gets a little frustrating. LOL

Head lamp and night gown Kenidee got for Christmas. She loves them both. Santa should have gotten more than one nightgown. Who would have known that she would love nightgowns so much.

Christmas Eve

2011-01-04T14:28:00.000-07:00

Before I start this post I want to say that I must be a blogger virgin again. Things have change and I am a bit confused. So this post you get to see pictures from the end of our night to the beginning. I hope by the next post I will have it figured out.

So Christmas Eve! I love every second of this night. I am so glad that my children are going to have some of the same memories of Christmas eve that I have. This year things got done a little different. But I still loved it.

Christmas jammies are done every year but the rule is when you get married you are out of the loop. So many of us almost didn't get married because we wouldn't get Christmas pj's :) My mother, being the most fantastic lady there is she gets us all matching pj's. I love it. I also love that it was the year that we were all to be home for Christmas. We missed Liz this night but not to worry she got home with her family Christmas day.

Christmas pj's are opened at Grandma LU LU's for those of us that are not married yet. The numbers were small.But we still had so much fun. We always do pictures in front of lu lu's fire place.

Things are so out of order but Rod and Justen having a little Christmas cuddle.

Every Christmas eve Santa brings the kids their p.j's. We are running short of kids so Justen was brave enough to be Santa. Bennett didn't really care but would much rather be off this strange mans lap.

Kenidee on the other hand even though she knew it was Uncle J, was so scared. She wanted nothing to do with him.

Something we have started doing because our number have become so small is wide elephant gifts. We all get such grand treasure. Some we want to keep such as an ab roller some we just want to save for next year so others can enjoy that same gift for the next year. such as the vote for Pedro hat.

Rebecca got Vintage glass grapes.

Robin got a little carved bear. SO cute.

Rod got a Hand mixer from the 60's I think his quote was "no one touch this or I will punch your face in" I guess he really wanted it. :)

We started our night out at the barn. This was something new for our family. My dad has wanted to do it for years. So Papa Bear (Bruce) read us the Christmas story, we sang Christmas songs and Papa Glen bore his testimony of the birth of our savior, and Andria played a few songs on her Cello. It was a special night. After that we had hot chocolate, yumm we all needed that, and headed back to Grandma Lu's for french dips and games.

Bennett all bundled up. He is such a cute boy! I need to work on his animal noises all night he kept pointing at the horses and saying"cow, MOOOOOO!" I love him

Mitchell and Kenidee are such funny kids they really had a good time being with each other in the barn.

Aunt Becca and Bennett all snuggled up for a wonderful start to a fantastic night.

I love this time of year. I love that the kids get so excited. I love being with my family and continuing the traditions I love most with my own children. I love the Savior and all he did for us.

starting over

2011-01-03T15:46:00.003-07:00

I have decided to do better at blogging and spend less time on other sites.(facebook) I was using blogging as a journal for my family and I have slack big time! So I am just going to do a little fill in and start all new.
From the last time I have blogged it was Kenidee's first day of school. Kenidee LOVES school! She loves learning and singing and all her friends. When we drop her off or pick her up at school she starts yelling her friends names and waving or running and hugging them. She got her class picture and she can name everyone in her class. Kenidee sings all the time she makes up songs, and then wants you to sing along. I get in so much trouble for not knowing the words. During the primary program this year you could hear her singing louder than all the other kids. She wouldn't say her part but she sang with all her heart.
Bennett is getting to be so funny. He loves to help me. If I am doing dishes or making dinner he starts pushing over a stool and saying "me help, me help" It takes me so much longer but he loves to be my little helper. He loves anything with wheels. This year for his birthday he got real boy toys. The boy couldn't have been happier. he often has a car, truck or train in his hand. Bennett wants so bad to be one of the big kids.Bennett keeps me busy. He is all over the place, climbing running jumping.Hethinks he is a big kid all the time. Next summer I am going to have to keep an eye on him. Bennett still has a grin that just makes you happy no matter what is going on.
Robin just got his CNA and working at a nursing home in Idaho falls. He is still going to go to school to get his RN. He is doing well in school and loves what he is doing. It is so nice to see him happy. He is a hard working husband that wants to do everything he can to help make our lives better.
I am staying at home and trying to teach these kiddos the best I can. I got a new camera for Christmas and am excited to start doing photography again. I have not done it in over 11 years. I just got a new calling in church as the Relief Society Secretary and I am overwhelmed learning all that I need to do well in my calling. I really miss "my kids" in primary. I loved hearing them sing and to get to hear their small but strong and testimonies of the gospel.
This summer we found out that we are going to have a new baby in our family in April. We found out a few weeks ago we are having a little boy. I am kind of scared to have two boys, oh the trouble I see them getting into, but I am happy that Bennett will have a brother and friend so close to his age.
This year all in all has been so hard, but I know we have been blessed everyday. I am so thankful for an amazing family,good friends, neighbors, and a fantastic ward. I am thankful for the knowledge I have of the gospel, to know that there is more to this life.

new hobbie I guess

2010-10-27T23:28:00.002-06:00

I am starting to make custom cards for Christmas check out my card blog.
www.carddesignbystephenie.blogspot.com

Preschool

2010-09-08T20:46:00.004-06:00

PRESCHOOL!!!! I can not believe my little baby girl is in preschool. She started on Tuesday. She LOVES it. The First day I took her in to her class and she didn't even look back. In fact the teacher asked her "whats your name?" She said KENIDEE! and walked right in. Her teacher looked at me and said.. ummm.. well I guess she is ready!

When I went to pick her up she kept saying " zip it lock it put it in your pocket" I asked her what that meant, and she told me that her teacher tells them that when it is her turn and only her turn to talk. I asked her WOW! can I use that at home and she told me " no mom it is ONLY a school thing.

Today when i went to pick her up her teacher reminded her that tomorrow is show and tell day. Kenidee told me that she needed to bring something to show and tell that starts with the letter A. so I asked her what do you want to bring? she says "ummmm... i think I will bring my cousin Andria!" To bad Andria starts school tomorrow. So we will have to do with an astronaut doll of aunt Rebecca's.

What a big boy

2010-06-18T09:29:00.003-06:00

Bennett is getting so big. He is talking and thinks he one of the big kids. He gets so sad when he can't do what they are doing. He for the most part is so happy, and he knows how dang cute he is. He also is a big tease, his favorite person to tease is Kenidee. Bennett started nursery the first of this month and so far loves it. It really hit me that my baby is no longer a baby when he was coming down the hall at church holding the first picture he colored in nursery. He started this week running down the hall yelling "me potty! me potty!"

Spanish

2010-06-15T23:51:00.002-06:00

Kenidee was getting ready to say prayers the other night and this is how it went.
Me: Kenidee can you do it alone or do you need help?
Kenidee: I am going to do it and if I need your help I will tell you
Me: okay
Kenidee put her face in her bed and was mumbling something.
Me: Kenidee are you praying?
Kenidee: yes mom I am praying in Spanish!
Me: oh sorry
Kenidee kept praying in "Spanish" then said amen then informed me that Heavenly Father is not Spanish but he knows Spanish.
Then she got in bed.

getting all caught up.

2010-05-17T05:48:00.005-06:00

Things have been crazy around here. I can't tell you the last time I turned on the computer. Yet alone have enough time to blog about what has been going on around here. I am so far behind I think I might just have to give a cliff notes version of the last 5 months to get us all "caught up." I will add pictures when I am on my desk top and not all tucked in bed on my lap top.

JANUARY-

The end of the month my whole family + Randy went and spent the weekend at his parents cabin on Bills Island. It is a beautiful cabin. I think it sleeps 20 people in beds. Then there are couches and such. It was a weekend filled with GOOD FOOD, late nights, fake mustaches, dance parties, hot tubs and seeing how far we could run in our swim suits in the waste deep snow. I NEVER got further then knee deep but the boys were crazy. I think the kids has as much fun as we did. Bennett lived on the stairs, it got a bit old taking shifts of sitting on the stairs trying to teach him to slide down on his belly but he wanted to walk down just like every other person.

FEBRUARY-

Rachelle got Engaged to Randy. I guess at the cabin he decided that we weren't half bad, or maybe she decided he wasn't half bad. :) We were all excited but when she told us that they were getting marred April 9 we were busy to get the perfect wedding all put together in just a short time. I started running around trying to help in anyway I could. It was nice that Robin was home so I could just go whenever I needed to. He never complained not even once. I love him, what else can I say.

Robin also turn 31 and we had a little family party for him. He wanted ice cream cake so that is what he got. The candles on his cake melted the balloons and almost didn't last through the happy birthday song.

MARCH-

Consisted of more planning and running and planning and finding addresses.

Robin tested to work for the Census. We were keeping our fingers crossed that he would get hired. I think he had a hard time being Mr. mom. He was getting really good at it and it was so nice to have the extra set of hands so I could work.

APRIL-

Robin got a JOB! He is working for the Census and although it is just for awhile we think it might last through the summer. So we are back to a one car family. You will always find me at home. It was hard getting used to him not being here. I loved having him home and being able to stay up and watch movies and just be together. We feel so blessed that he could find a job, even if it is for a few months.

Bennett is a monkey! He climbs on EVERYTHING! His favorite place to be is on the table, so he can look out the window and say over and over OUTSIDE?! OUTSIDE?! If only we had nice weather. So one day Bennett and Kenidee were coloring at the table. I was doing dishes. I looked up just in time to see Bennett step backwards off the chair, as he fell he hit his lip on the edge of the chair. Blood was everywhere. We didn't have a car because Robin was at work so who do you call in a time like this? I called my mom. She ran right out and picked us up and I took him to community care for his first set of stitches. 4 stitches in my little boys lip. I felt so bad for him. they asked me to leave the room and wait in the waiting room until they were done. I just couldn't go all the way to the waiting room. I didn't want people to look at me and wonder why is this lady sitting her crying. So I opted for the hall furthest away from where Bennett was. I could still here him crying, and it made me feel so bad. When all was said and done his lip was so swollen. It almost stuck out further then his nose. (i will add pics when I am on my desk top)

Easter was so fun. We dyed easter eggs and had pizza at our house with my parents and with Justen's family and Rebecca and Andria. I loved how much Kenidee was into dying easter eggs this year. She LOVED every egg, and hugged it and kissed it. We didn't go to any of the easter egg hunts this year, on terms it was freezing. I can't remember if it was snowing or blowing or both. But the easter bunny did come and Kenidee was Super excited! I heard her walk out of her door and then I heard a gasp then little running feet to my room. and she told me "oh mom the easter bunny DID come and he brought us Toy story 1 and Toy story 2. Soon Bennett was awake and they went to look at there baskets. Then we did a little easter egg hunt in our house. Kenidee was so excited. She kept asking me how did the easter bunny get candy all the way up there,and she was so happy that the easter bunny hid candy on her door frame in her room. I love this age. I love that little things make her happy. Bennett he was just excited that he got to eat chocolate.

We spent the rest of the day listening to conference. I once again got to make rolls for the family party. I made 72 rolls. I just wanted to make sure there was enough for everyone,and really who doesn't like left over rolls? We went to my grandmas after conference and had the traditional Easter dinner ham twice baked potatoes, pretzel jello salad, green salad. I can't even remember all the food but it was all good.

Right before dinner Robin and Justen went to find Mitchell and Kenidee, they came back sometime later and we found out they were in my moms storage room having a dried bean fight. I guess there were beans everywhere. Those two are getting to be so mischievous together. I do love that they are becoming better friends, they love to be with each other.

The weekend after Easter,April 9 Rachelle and Randy were married in the Idaho Falls Temple! It was perfect. Really it was. Rachelle was glowing and beautiful, she couldn't stop smiling from the time she walked in the room till they left the luncheon. The reception the following night. So we had a ton still to get done for the reception. Everything turned out perfect it was beautiful. the food looked amazing and yes we danced our pants off, and then they left in wedding attire on Randy's motorcycle! it was so cute!
We are so happy Rachelle had found Randy and that Randy stuck around for Rachelle. He had just fits right into our family and treats Rachelle like a princess.

MAY
We have had gale force winds for almost this whole month. I am about ready to move to somewhere else. In this fantastic weather we are having, we are trying to get our yard to look normal. We have gotten a dump truck of gravel and some bigger rock and some dirt... well lots of dirt. We have so far finished the extra driveway with gravel, put the bigger rock around the back side of the house, filled some huge sink holes. Built a retaining wall planter thing in the rain and snow (my favorite thing in my whole yard) filled it up with dirt, and planted it. I hope the plants don't freeze We still have lots to do. I have to build up one more bed in the front and try to once again plant a garden for us and not for the insects.
Mothers day was fantastic Robin started early, Saturday he made breakfast and let me sleep in, then we worked in the yard all day long. Then he told me he needed to leave to do some shopping, really how can I say no to that? When he got home he gave me some flowers and asked me if I wanted my mothers day gift now or tomorrow. I told him whatever he wanted. So he chose now. he gave me a new phone! I love it! It is so sleek and I think it makes me look important. ;)
Sunday morning him and Kenidee made me my favorite breakfast ever. French toast on french bread sausages and buttermilk syrup. I stayed in bed for as long as I could but I decided to get out of bed and help them make breakfast I really didn't do much Robin had it all under control.
I love being a mother. Some days are so hard but really I don't know what I would be doing if I didn't have them. My own mother has been such an example to me of how to love with everything I have. To enjoy everything that happens, and to look for the positive. She has taught me how to serve others. I still have lots to learn from her and I am not perfect but I am so thankful for such a great example.
My kids are getting so big. Kenidee looks like she could be walking into kindergarten, she keeps me laughing and on my toes. The other day she was running and playing outside with some friends and she looked like such a big girl. She is so social and almost "dies" if she can't be with a friend or go somewhere. She loves to go by herself without me or Bennett to Grandma Shauna's. She never really wants to come home. Everyday I see a little bit of me in her she loves the dirt and how it feels on her feet. she has been my little helper planting plants. She talks to them and tells them that they are going to grow healthy and strong, and of course kisses them. Somedays I think she is 3 going on 13 she wants what she wants when she wants it, and I don't know exactly how to deal with this. She loves primary and singing. She makes up songs all the time and pretends she is on a stage. She has become a big helper with Bennett. She can make friends with anyone. She makes me laugh, and I love her permanent kisses. she kisses you then blows on them. I love her so much.
Bennett just thinks he is a big kid. He runs with them and laughs with them, gets frustrated when he can't ride away with them when they all leave on their bikes. He wants so bad to be big, and I want so bad for him to stay little. Bennett would be happy if I let him be outside all day long or if we were in the car for a ride he would be happy. Really Bennett is for the most part he is a happy kid, but don't get me wrong this kid KNOWS how to throw a good fit. He will be in nursery soon and in some small way that makes me sad. He loves to play dogs with Kenidee. His smile still make me give into anything almost. He loves baby dolls but knows how to make a mean truck sound. I love that kid he makes me laugh and smile everyday. When he is stinky he plugs his nose and says stinky. He is saying new words everyday. soon I will have two chatter boxes on my hands.

What is not to love

2010-03-23T22:30:00.003-06:00

Today has been "one of those days" No matter what I did I just couldn't make both of my kids happy. One would be laughing and the other one would be crying or they would both be crying. I wanted to give up, lock myself in the bathroom and stay there the rest of the day.

I could not for the life of me keep up on the house and I am in no mood to clean it up. I decided instead of cleaning up dinner and doing dishes I would put pics from my camera on to the computer. While I was doing that I found this picture of my babies. How could I stay frustrated when I saw this picture of them both happy and loving each other. This is what makes being a mom all worth the hard days.

My kids they do fight but they really do love each other. I love when Bennett walks up to Kenidee and gives her a big hug and a wet kiss.

I love that I caught Kenidee and Bennett sitting in a small chair today and Kenidee was reading him 5 little monkeys, because "he wanted a story and she knows the words. "

I love that kenidee is teaching Bennett new words. Like tree window, cow, fence, car, rock.

I love that Bennett can make anyone smile just by his smile. (this might be his life saver)

I love that I have two healthy happy kids.

I love that I have been blessed to take care of these two children of God.

I know there will always be hard days and maybe even days I do lock myself in the bathroom. I need to remind myself everyday how lucky I am to have Kenidee and Bennett in my life.

Magic

2010-03-23T12:39:00.003-06:00

Kenidee keeps me on my toes and laughing all the time. Today she has been a little bit neglected while I work. The T.V. has stayed on longer than normal, and Barney came on. The TV is usually long off by then. She starts jumping up and down Saying MOM MOM MOM ERNIE is on! please can I watch it. So I say sure and his name is Barney.
So the kids on Barney find an egg so they are trying to figure out what it came from. One girl said maybe the Easter Bunny left it. So Barney being the magical dinosaur that he is did some sort of magic that really impressed Kenidee and she says: "MOM! Ernie is magic like Santa the Easter bunny and Jesus!

Welcome 2010

2010-03-17T08:43:00.003-06:00

I know some of you might be thinking Christmas now new years COME ON Steph get it together. I hope to be all caught up soon, so endure with me. :)
So if you know us and know my side of the family you know if it is going to be a good party we HAVE to have GOOD food. So Robin and I decided that we would have a New Years party at our house, and we were going to have a fondue and fry party. Everyone was supposed to bring something that could be fondued or fried. Really good for ya right. We had SOOOOO much good food. WE dipped anything we could find in Carmel and chocolate fondue, I got out some roads rolls and fried anything from candy bars to the jalapeno poppers Bri made.We played games and ate played the wii and ate, talked and ate. Really it isn't a party unless we are all together and eating. :) I think everyone gained 20 pounds that night. Needless to say the fry daddy got put away and will not be brought back out this year.

New years day was the day Robin had set aside for our little get away. My niece Andria came over to watch the kids, and off we went to the distant land of Rexburg! We stayed at the Americinn in a theme suit. When Robin booked our room he asked them what room had the largest bath tub, and booked that room. I love baths I think they make anything better. If I am sick I go get in the bathtub if I am stressed it is off to the bathtub. In our new house the bathtub is nothing better then a little puddle to sit in so I was WAY excited to go and have a much needed bath. We got to Rexburg check in to our hotel and went to go look at the room and it was a mid evil room it was so neat I wish I would have taken pictures but I didn't take my camera. there was a suit of armor and tons of fabric draped everywhere. And there it was the beautiful bathtub, I could hardly wait.
Robin took me to see the blind side, and we went to craigos. It was so nice to be together and not worry about anything. We knew the kids were in good hands, and we just pretended for a few days that things were all back to normal.
When we got back to the hotel I filled up the small swimming pool and got in and just soaked. This is when we realized that this room was really mid evil. :) The remote wouldn't work so while I lived in the bathtub Robin had to get up to turn the channel. We think the bed was from the mid evil times and filled with straw, it was horrible. Next to the bed was a full suit of armor, as we were laying in bed trying to get to sleep out of the blue Robin says hey do you think I could wear that suit of armor. I started laughing so hard. Then about six the next morning I woke Robin up and asked him what time it was the clock in the room wouldn't work. He told me I just might have time for one more bath. yippee!
This really was the best gift, it was something we both needed. I loved it. Thank you Robin!

Christmas eve and day.... :)

2010-03-15T19:46:00.003-06:00

Christmas eve was so much fun this year;well it is every year. We always go to my grandma Luana and Grandpa Bruce's house. We eat have a program and the nativity. This year we were few in numbers, that was just fine by me and Kenidee sang Santa clause is coming to town, and Annie's kids sang a song too. Then we had a wide elephant gift exchange. FUN was had by all. A few examples of gifts were precooked bacon, bumpits, lava lamps, snore straps, bobble heads, slingshots, and cake toppers. Robin got a jello mold of the jolly ole man and I got a full bathroom set it is truly amazing I wish you all could have one. Needless to say the bathroom set will be passed on. Then off to the basement to wait for Santa and his elves to come bring us a little gift (always matching PJS. Like I said we were few in numbers so the kids this year were Garrett, Gabbie, Kenidee and Bennett. It took some convincing and a bit of tattling but Rod was Santa Michael and Pat were his helper elves. Kenidee was so excited to see Santa. Every once in awhile we could here bells coming from the other room and Kenidee was so excited she could hardly stand it. She would yell. I HEAR SANTA'S BELLS ON HIS SLED!!!! When Rodney came out in his Santa garb she was so upset. She threw her self on the floor and cried that is NOT Santa that is UNCLE ROD! she wouldn't even sit on his lap. I love Christmas eve. When we got back home that night Kenidee helped me set out cookies for Santa and she was worried that the raindeer would be starving so we put out a few carrots out our front door. Soon they were asleep.
If you asked Kenidee what she wanted for Christmas she would tell you a Turkey. I thought it was because it was soon after thanksgiving. Santa found himself searching high and low for a turkey that didn't cost and arm and a leg. Every elf was looking for a turkey. Then we got a phone call from and elf in Washington,and she had good news for us she had found a turkey and it would get here right on time. whew! I was so happy that kenidee was going to get what she had been asking for.
I loved being in our own house for Christmas. I love making our own little traditions. That morning my sisters and Andria came out to see the kids open Santa gifts. Bennett didn't really know what to think of it but he loved the paper.
Robin had lost his job right before Christmas and things were really stressful, so he gave me a night away it was only to Rexburg but we had so much fun and I loved being with him and not having to worry about everyday life for a few days. It was just what we needed to face the next few month ahead of us.
Anyway... after we were done with gifts here we went back to my moms for breakfast and more gift giving. I love Christmas. I love being close to loved ones.

such funny kids

2010-02-18T23:18:00.004-07:00

I know I am so far behind in pics and updating but I HAVE to write some funny things Kenidee and Bennett have been saying and doing before I forget them forever. This has turned into something really long and I am more so writing this down for myself . So read the whole thing or just skim it but I need to remember these funny times with my kids.

First of all Kenidee LOVES... I mean LOVES dogs. she would love to have one of her very own. I hate them. Sorry dog lovers. When Kenidee asks me if she can have a dog, I simply tell her when she has her own house and her own kids then she can have her own dog. Well this little stinker is always thinking.
The other day she told me that she wants to move to her own house so she can have a dog. I told her she can't move out she is 3 and has to stay with her mommy, I would miss her so much. She simply tells me that I can come and visit her in her own house if I want to. Daddy and Bennett can live with her because they LOVE dogs! Is she really choosing a dog over her own mother!
Then another day she tells me that maybe she wants to move to live with Rachelle and Randy(rachelle's soon to be eternal companion) so she can have a dog at their house.
Kenidee watches a few cartoons in the morning, but on this one morning I turned on the tv and a very special dog show was on the tv. she wanted to watch it. then Bennett got sucked in and Robin. So there we were one happy family watching all these dogs being pranced around. I thought it was so funny. Robin called grandma ju ju and told her about her dog loving granddaughter and she said "that's my girl"
Kenidee also acts like a dog crawling around and barking. She does this a lot. So through example Bennett now acts like a dog. The first time I witnessed my baby boy being a dog it went a little like this. I came out of our bedroom and there stood my baby boy grinning from ear to ear. Then Bennett got on all fours and barked a few times crawled down the hall stood up and looked at me with that same huge grin I love as if to say. "mom look I am a DOG!" Got back down on all fours and crawled away barking. Bennett takes his role as a dog seriously. I wanted him to come over to me but, when I said "bennett come to momma" he wouldn't even look at me but once I patted my legs and said "come here puppy" he came a crawling and barking. oh what am I to do. His skills as a dog are advancing he has started licking my face. Kenidee is an awesome teacher. Needless to say I think I might loose this fight against getting a dog one day.

Kenidee called up Emily to sing to her for her birthday this is how the words of the song she sang went.
Its your birthday shout hurray were going to sing to you today when you're older and when you're two happy birthday to you!

The conversation of toots and burps came up one day and Kenidee asked us what they were and we told her that is how your body gets rid of gas, she gave us a strange look and I told her not gas you put in your car. She seemed okay with that so now when she toots or burps she says excuse me that is just a bit of gas.

when we ask Kenidee what she wants for Breakfast she tells us she wants Rotten noodles (ramen) noodles.

we have had a bit of a challenge getting kenidee to stop what she is doing and go to the bathroom so I told her one day I was going to turn her into a goon. So one day when she wet her pants I started saying " Abracadabra abracazoon turn this girl into a .... and the whole time I am saying this Kenidee is waving her arms and saying no mom please don't turn me into a goon. So I never finish my spell. Kind of mean some might think but I laugh so hard every time.

a conversation in the car one day went a little like this
K: mom did you know that Heavenly Father is fast Magic and you are slow magic
Me: oh really what makes Heavenly Father fast magic?
K: you know he can make buildings and things.
Me: how am I slow magic?
K: oh you just do things little like turn people into goons!

Aunt Becca has come to get Kenidee a few times for a night at becks. So Rebecca comes and gets Kenidee after work around six (mind you she goes to bed at 7:30) the get dinner make a treat and watch a movie or put on all Rebeccas jewelery. So now she has been asking me if she can go to becks for a daytime date, or just stay at becks all night.

I love both of my kids they are growing so fast and some days I just sit on the floor and tell them to stop growing. Having kids is so hard yet so much fun. I couldn't do this with out Robin. He is amazing my kids have the best dad. He plays with them takes them on walks builds snowmen with them. Makes them laugh till they can't breath. I would be lost with out him. I am so thankful he is mine all mine.

what a funny sista

2010-01-25T14:54:00.003-07:00

When I was in college if someone left their camera out we would often do a self portrait of ourselves and whoever was with us. Rachelle and I were roommates and I don't if that is why she will grab any ones camera lying around and have a photo shoot of herself with it. So

as I was looking through my Christmas pictures I found these of my little sister. After she does something like this she asks me "why steph did you put these on your blog?" well you took them little sista. Rachelle must twist peoples arms to do this with her. She got Rodney in on the photo shoot. She is so funny. I guess it could also mean I am careless with my camera and leave it lying around way to much.

Winter trip to Salt Lake City.

2010-01-24T11:58:00.004-07:00

This winter I got tickets to go to the Mormon Tabernacle Christmas concert. When I got tickets in the mail. I thought of Robins grandma. Kenidee calls her Markham. She loves Motab! When we got married she listened to them practice and has always said she would love to hear them again. So with the help of Robins parents Markham got to come to SLC to the concert. She has never been in the conference center, she was so excited. I was so excited! We spent 2 days in SLC with my mom Rachelle and My grandma. It was a regular girls weekend. Robin stayed home with the kids so I could go.
Markham and I have become good friends,and she has a laugh that can make anyone happy.While we were in SLC we did some shopping and walk around temple square. Ate at the lion house.
After the girls weekend Markham got to come to idaho for a few days to see Robin and the kids. Kenidee was so excited to have Markham sleep in her bed while she got to sleep on an air mattress in the same room.
Markham wanted to take Kenidee shopping for gifts for robin and I for Christmas, so we waited in the car at walmart while markham and kenidee went to find the perfect gifts. When she got back to the car she told me she found herself the perfect gift. It had 2 snowman mugs hot chocolate gram crackers and even a candy bar. She picked out popcorn for robin and a poinsettia for me (it is still living). We loved having Markham here with us. Kenidee still talks about having Markham stay at our house. We miss you Grandma and can't wait till we can see you again.

Do you think we had fun! If we got anymore we would have had to tie it to the top of the car.

The cutest thing

2010-01-24T11:11:00.003-07:00

JuJu will often send the kids some way cute cloths for the upcoming season. (thank you) This time JuJu sent kenidee shirts and this way cute dress with scotty dogs on them. Kenidee and JuJu share the love of dogs. I just thought this outfilt was super cute. Bennett loves the hat too, he would crawl around wearing this way cute hat. I cannot for the life of me take a normal picture of this girl. One day when she is older she is going to ask me where are all the pictures of her looking at the camera, and I will have to tell her there aren't any. She is way to busy to stand long enough to have a picture taken of her.

homemade tents and butter yumm

2010-01-24T00:09:00.003-07:00

One day Kenidee wanted a tent, so she asked her dad to build her a tent. So being the wonderful daddy any girl could ever have, he made her the best tent ever. He got a few hooks and started putting them in her wall. Kenidee came running to tell me that her daddy was putting holes in her new walls. I went to see what she was talking about and sure enough her dad was putting holes in her wall. Then he hooked a wire from one hook on one wall to the other hook then put a sheet over the wire. While Robin was figuring out how to make the sides of the "tent" stay out I told him why don't you just nail it down to the floor. Kenidee didn't think that was such a good idea and Robin thought it would be a wonderful idea. He didn't do it. thank goodness. Robin is such a good daddy to our kids. Kenidee shared that tent with anyone who would be brave enough to go inside. So her and Papa Glen hung out for a little bit.

We found the butter looking like this one day. When we asked kenidee about it she said that it was what she wanted for lunch. Sick. Keep the butter away from that girl.

Thanksgiving weekend.. I know I know

2010-01-23T23:47:00.004-07:00

We had so much fun over Thanksgiving, my sister Liz and her kids came up and the kids love to play together. When Liz and her kids are in town it is ALWAYS a party. All the kids stayed up later then they should we ate, laughed, ate, bowled, ate, watched home movies, laughed ate. I am sure we all get the picture.

I wanted to do something to help with the Thanksgiving feast. So I decided I would teach myself how to make Lion house rolls, and they had to be perfect and wonderful. Aunt Paula always makes the rolls and they are always soooo good. So I had huge shoes to fill. So I started to practice, weeks in advance, I would always take the most perfect one to my Grandma to taste and to tell me how to make them better. I had a little helper most of the time and Kenidee became quite good at rolling up the "snail" rolls.

I do have to say in this case practice did make perfect. The rolls were super good. I didn't make all of them this year Paula still helped but I did make about 72 rolls for that day. (some we saved for leftovers)

One night we had a little party over at our house and Kenidee and Hailee had a bath together. Liz always has to give Kenidee a bath when they are here because Liz is the BEST hand bubble blower. I do have so say the lady is really good.

After baths we made them a little bed so they could watch a movie. I thought they were both so cute. they didn't want to give me the time of day and look at me for a picture but still so cute and what fun to have a cousin so close to you in age.

Pics from Bennetts Birthday Finally.

2010-01-23T23:09:00.003-07:00

We decided to do Bennett's birthday party the weekend before his birthday, because family was here and we would know that Robin would be around.
Well the party day came and Robin had gotten the flu, and stayed in our room the whole time sleeping. poor guy. We had many members of our family still around to party with us.
I made monkey cupcakes and we opened gifts. It was very low key and simple until the eating of the cake. I took everything off the cute little monkey cupcake but the ears and gave it to Bennett. Well after shoving in what he could he started to choke a little bit. It turned really quick. Bennett was full on choking. I ripped off his bib and took him out of his chair, I called for Rachelle to help me and she took him and started the Heimlich, she then called to Randy who is an emt and he continued to do the Heimlich with Rebecca on the ground sweeping his mouth. It seemed like forever but I am sure it wasn't to long. Soon he was fine and we found out he was choking on one of the Oreo ears. sheesh. Why did I leave them on. I just held him and cried for a little bit but soon he wanted down. I couldn't even talk about it for days.
My parents gave Bennett a wagon, and after Robin put it together he wouldn't get out. He cried forever. We have used it once before it got to cold but I think it is going to be a popular item this summer.

Happy Birthday Bennett

2009-12-01T10:01:00.002-07:00

Today is Bennett's birthday! It is amazing how fast a year goes by and how fast a little baby grows up and learns so many things in just a year. We have loved having Bennett in our family he is always so happy, even when he doesn't feel good. His smile can make anyone smile. I thought at first he was going to be my little snuggle boy, but he is busy. He does make time out of his busy life discovering new things to give anyone a hug, and sometimes a big of a snuggle. He loves to play with the "big kids" they will be running and then you see Bennett crawling as fast as he can to keep up.
He has started to walk he has gotten up to walk and taken as many as 18 steps alone. the other day when he did this he got quite far then looked at me and started to cry, and sat down and crawled back to me.
He says dada momma de(kenidee), tuck and go. he gives high fives, and loves to play with his trucks. It was funny when robin decided that his son would no longer "drive" his sisters mini van and went and bought him a dump truck. Bennett LOVED it he would not let kenidee play with it. kind of funny.
He would rather feed himself. he gets frustrated when we have to feed him something.
Bennett was hard to get here and was a bit scary, but I love him so much and would do it over again. We love you Bennett boy!

Halloween

2009-11-14T11:21:00.003-07:00

Kenidee was so excited about Halloween this year. Everywhere we went she would ask people what they were going to be for halloween. then she would tell them what she was going to be and everyone else was going to be. We would practice trick or treating, and she would get so excited.
Halloween night we went to the ward party and kenidee was being so shy until she figured out that all the kids were playing games and that they were giving candy as prizes.
After that we went to my moms and Robin took Kenidee trick or treating around my moms house. She was more excited about peoples dogs then she was about getting candy.
Before Halloween Kenidee asked Rebecca what she was going to dress up as and Rebecca told kenidee that she was going to be Kenidee. Kenidee was so excited she would tell everyone that Rebecca was going to be her. So Rebecca had no choice but to dress up as kenidee. So she got a red wig and a tutu and wore her big bows. kenidee wasn't so sure about it but now she says next year she is going to be Rebecca for Halloween

pumpkin growing/carving

2009-11-14T10:15:00.006-07:00

This year was our first garden. It went ok for a first garden. This year we also had hoards of Grasshoppers who loved our garden. I had no idea how to get rid of them so I guess the grasshoppers just took over. We did, however enjoy watching our pumpkins grow. they didn't get very big but kenidee was so excited. She helped me pick them and move them to the front porch. She was such a good helper. We had 7 pumpkins from our garden we got to carve.

The night of carving we ate dinner first then I really didn't clean up dinner or kids as you can see in the pictures, they still have messy faces. It didn't look that bad in real life I promise. Kenidee didn't mind gutting the pumpkin or anything she just acted like yep we do this everyday. Bennett on the other hand LOVED it. He loved his little pumpkin and wouldn't let me take it from him. He would just cry and cry when I took it from him to do anything to it. when I got his pumpkin open he stuck his hand inside and loved it! he was pulling out seeds and eating them. gross! When his pumpkin was all carved he sat and chewed on it. when I got him ready for bed I saw he still had stuff in his mouth I just assumed it was a seed nope it was a huge chunk of pumpkin he had gotten off something.

I didn't get pics after all the carving was done because my battery died. but they were all so cute!

thirty.... oh boy!

2009-11-14T09:48:00.004-07:00

I turned 30 end of September. It was a nice day. It started the day before my bday Rachelle came over and made me pumpkin waffles with Cinnamon syrup. yummy thanks chelle.

I really wanted to go get a real pedicure from someone who really knew what they were doing. So I made 2 appointments at Sage day spa in Rexburg. My sister in law and I went and It was wonderful and really not that bad of a price, lets just say I have spend more for much much less.

Then I ate lunch with my mom at her house. My ever so thoughtful neighbors brought me a gift and a cake! I didn't get a pic. of it but it was wonderful. I ate it for breakfast for days. YUMMY!

My family all came over and brought cake ice cream and pizza! Robin was in class that night. :(

Bri made my fantastic cake. Really who gets 2 cakes on their bday... me I guess. Then as I mentioned in the last post I got chairs from my mom dad and grandma and grandpa.

Finishing up..... in the next few posts.

2009-11-13T23:22:00.003-07:00

I hated our table and the chairs were falling apart. I wanted a new table so bad, but it just wasn't in the budget. One night I had my cousin Andrew and his wife Anna over for game night and I was telling them how sorry I was that their chairs were falling apart under them. I started telling them how I needed a new dining set. Well she gave me the idea to just redo the table and then slowly get new chairs. I was so excited so that is what I set out to do. It was a lot of work we sanded down the whole table and re stained the top and spray painted the legs black. best part is my Brother Justen had stain left over from a job, so i had to get spray paint and sand paper. So we redid this table for maybe $15.00! Oh i got the chairs for my birthday from my parents and grandparents. they found them on clearance at target! I do love my "new" table! For awhile Kendiee loved wearing anything that went on her bottom half on her head. bloomers became swimming caps and P.J's become long flowing hair. Kenidee Loves to dance. In order to dance she has to have her tutu on or a "princess dress." She must always have a prince. She will come up to me and ask me mom do you think you could be my prince today. My answer "Sure" who can resist such a beautiful princess. She sometimes asks me, "Mom when will Bennett be old enough to be my prince." I just laugh. I can't wait to see that someday. I know Bennett will be her "prince" and dance with his sister because I can tell that is the kind of brother he will be.

Washington Trip

2009-10-24T14:45:00.008-06:00

We went to Washington the first of September. We drove to Boise (thanks Seth and Nicole for keeping our car and stuff) then flew out to Seattle. Kenidee loved flying, I thought take off and landing would scare her but she loved it! Bennett slept on Robin the whole way. Judy takes Kari and her girls to Teriyaki every Thursday night for dinner. So we were able to go with them. Kenidee loves salad. So I asked the lady if she just had a small salad for her, she said yes in her broken English and when she brought it out it was HUGE!!!!! Judy and ellie shared it with her and it was still way to much. Kenidee and Ellie had so much fun together. It had been along time since they had seen each other and they acted like they just saw each other yesterday. Sometimes I wonder if they share a brain.

We went to lunch with Markham(robins grandma) I didn't take pics dang it. then went to Fred Meyers, and Kenidee found this head band and wore it all over the store. I think it is really awesome.

We wanted to see how Bennett measures up to Lexi but we couldn't get them to stand together. But he loved watching the girls run and chase each other.

We went to the Aquarium one day and Kenidee loved it. She wanted to touch everything she could. Bennett slept through it. I will have to post the little clip I have of kenidee trying to catch pigeons. it is classic. Later that day she ask if we could take the sea lions home with us when I asked her where they would live she told me we would just build a pond in our back yard by the trampoline. what a good idea.

This is the Lay Family. We LOVE them. They were in our ward when we lived in Tacoma. They are a great family and I learned so much from them. Michelle threw me a baby shower for kenidee. When we moved she was expecting the twin girls. while we were there on our visit they invited us over for Sunday dinner. It was so nice to see there newly redone house and to catch up on what they have been doing. Kenidee played great with the kids.

Ernie always would play with kenidee when she was a baby but this time she wasn't so sure so he just held her and talked to her until she said they could be friends.

Chuck E. Cheese's is something I have never experienced. This was a first for me as well as my kids. I guess Robin and his brothers would go when they were kids. It was interesting for me I guess it wasn't what I expected.Kenidee loved it. Bennett rode on this little car with Chuck E. most of the time. Robin got into it too. I would catch him playing games for the little kids, I don't know if he was trying to get more tickets or maybe the games were just fun to him.

We were able to go and see Grandma and Grandpa Wright they have never met Bennett. Bennett was named after Grandpa Wright. the pic of our kids with grandma and grandpa are not so good but we got some good ones of grandpa with the kids. Kenidee still talks about grandpa's fish. We all had so much fun. it was nice to get back home to our own beds. Kenidee always asks when she will get to see Ellie again she really misses her other half.

Bubbles!

2009-10-23T20:36:00.002-06:00

Justen's boy and Kenidee have so much fun together... well for the most part. This day they were "helping" Robin wash his truck as you can see they had so much fun playing in the bubbles. Kenidee gave up soon and started washing her bike. But Mitch just kept playing in the bubbles. He is really such a cute and funny boy! We love him.

Hello... da da

2009-10-18T09:35:00.002-06:00

this morning was an early one.Bennett decided that it was time to party at 5 am so off I went to the living room with him to play. He is so much fun. He makes anyone smile. I know I have a ton of blogging to get all caught up with but I HAD to post this today, partly because it is on my sisters camera it was the closest thing. i just watched this again and it is kind of dark but still so cute. I know it is long but so cute at the end so keep watching.

9 Months old

2009-09-26T21:09:00.002-06:00

Bennett turned 9 months old sept. 1. his nine month stats are:
weight 19 lbs 13 oz and was 28 inches long.
Bennett is so happy and is still what we like to call "swimming" he does crawl normal but only to get over things and in the grass. He started pulling himself up the beginning of August. This picture is one of the first times he pulled himself up in his crib. We put his bed down but I guess we should have done it sooner. he did pull himself up and over the edge of the crib once. his bed is now down. I have caught him a few times climbing up the bar of his bed. He cant do that if he has sock on or his feet are covered. He has the sweatiest little feet. I like to call him our little tree frog. He has a good grip too. If he ever gets a hold of something he HOLDS ON for dear life.
He started eating table food and LOVES it. He prefers to feed himself. So I just put things on his tray or if I feed him with a spoon I have to get the food on it, and he likes to put it in his mouth.
He really wants to WALK, he thinks he is one of the big kids. He loves to play with kenidee. He now has 6 teeth 4 on top and 2 on bottom.
He has started pulling out single strands of carpet and chew on them! We are going to have bald spots on our carpet.
he says uh oh really well and makes the noise I make for yuck. Baba and kenidee swares he says ka ka for kenidee. We love having Bennett in our family he is ALWAYS happy hardly ever cries and just loves to laugh.

more summer fun!

2009-09-22T10:29:00.002-06:00

Justen and Bri went camping and we weren't able to go and stay with them so the kids grandma luana and I went up for lunch. Kenidee and Mitch had so much fun playing in the lake. These two are fearless. They would walk out into the water all the way over their heads if we would let them. Soon a storm came rollin in so that was our cue to leave. On our way home we had to stop for sqare icecream cones. The icecream isn't as good as it used to be but hey they are square! that makes it just a little better. Kenide loved them.

Just wanting to help

2009-09-22T10:13:00.003-06:00

I am not sure what I was doing but when I came back Bennett was so happy. Really who wouldn't be, with a tray full of Cheerios. Kenidee thought he could use a few more treats. She was so proud of herself for helping her little brother. Kenidee much have dumped the cheerios all the way to his tray there was a little trail from the counter to the tray.

huckleberry picking

2009-09-21T11:16:00.005-06:00

Kenidee and I went huckleberry picking with my family this summer. At one point we shoved eight of us in Justen’s pickup to get up the rest of the mountain. We had a small picnic then headed up to find the huckleberry bushes. Mitchell was dubbed the huckleberry hound. He loved picking huckleberries. We think it is in his blood. Kenidee on the other hand had to go to the bathroom so bad she could hardly enjoy herself I tried to have her go in the woods but she would not go in the woods. So after a short time picking Kenidee and I headed down the mountain in search of a bathroom. Rebecca said there was one down by the truck, so down we went with full intentions of going back up to pick huckleberries.
When we got down to the truck I couldn’t find the bathrooms anywhere. So we stayed by the truck and she took pictures of everything. It was a way to pass time. She is so funny when it comes to taking pictures. She was all over the place so I took several of her too.
After a while the huckleberry pickers came back and Rebecca took Kenidee to the hidden bathrooms. I still have no idea where they were. As we were sitting relaxing and enjoying nature Justen found a four leaf clover! We all oooed and aaaaaahed over it then awhile later Rachelle found a huge four leaf clover. It was amazing really. Rachelle said that that is how their luck goes… Justen’s luck comes small yet perfect. Rochelle’s luck comes big but is often retarded.
So i didn't down load things in order but use your imagination.........

the picture of my foot I took because I kept telling kenidee how dirty she was then I looked down at my foot and I am so dirty!

The best picture I could get of all of us in the truck. not so good but....we all remember.

Kenidee with chelle.

waiting and waiting and waiting for a bathroom break.

Kenidee 3 year pics and Bennett 8 month pics

2009-09-12T20:37:00.000-06:00

Happy Birthday Kenidee

2009-08-12T13:05:00.005-06:00

Kenidee is Three! It seem like not that long ago my little girl was my little baby. Now she thinks she can do everything herself. I can't imagine life without her. She keeps us busy and laughing.

Before Kenidee's birthday I asked her what kind of cake she wanted. She told me she wanted a monster cake. I asked her if she was sure, and made other suggestions of what kind of cake I thought she would like. nope every time it was I want a pink monster cake with sharp teeth and two eyes. It was so fun to let her pick out her own cake mix, and pick help me pick out candy for the monsters face. From some help from my boss and her cake decorating tools I think her cake turned out really good. It took me forever but she loved it. I made the cake the night before her party in the morning she asked to see it and she told me it was PERFECT!

Kenidee got so many fun things a sprinkler from grandma a new blanket from grandma shauna and a doll with magnetic cloths a helmet, princess books and a puzzle littlest pet shop from a neighborhood friend and a bike from her mom and dad. She really likes everything. the bike is a bit big this year but by next summer she will be riding it like a pro.

The monster cake was a big hit! I made her blue pancakes for her birthday breakfast and she thought that was really neat.

My dad loves to take the grand kids for some nice cowboy boots. Kenidee was so into it. She loves to try things on. She was so at home. My dad pick out her pink boots and kenidee wouldn't take them off. She wore them around the store until my dad was done trying on some boots for himself.

Kenidee found this pink stick horse and I found her the pink cowgirl hat. She told me many times while watching parades this summer that she wanted to be a cowgirl princess. Happy birthday kenidee! you have so many people around you who love you too.

Random fun!

2009-08-02T11:26:00.007-06:00

I finally made it to town to get Bennett a swing for the swing set and can you tell by his face that he LOVES it.! He giggles the whole time, and he stays in it forever. I just have Kenidee give him little pushes once in awhile. While I weed.

Kenidee found these goggles in a box in the garage. Her and Robin sported them for awhile. What a good dad she has to play with her in goggles and to let me take his picture with them on.

Nothing better then nephews in Tutu's that he had to have on, nieces exfoliating their grandmas feet, chickens at a neighbors house and good friends chad cronin who loved his brownie more then the rest of us.

Kenidee is such a girl she loves to do all sorts of girly things. Aunt Rachelle was such a sport to let
Kenidee paint her nails. Oh yes and look how talented my little girls feet are!

Kenidee was decorating this box then she wanted to get in it after a few min. She wanted her brother in with her. So here they are playing together in the box. My favorite part is that is says made in China under them.

A new toy!

2009-07-27T15:38:00.004-06:00

Papa Skip and Ju ju bought Kenidee and Bennett this swing set Kenidee loves it! Any kid who comes over to play loves it too. Bennett well we have helped him down the slide a few times and he thinks it is okay. We need to get him an infant swing then I think he will love it too. Emily and Kolby call my backyard Markham park! Thanks so much Skip and Judy!

Surprise guest!

2009-07-27T15:02:00.002-06:00

We love the Heimuli family. We were in the same ward in Tacoma. They were one of the families that became our family while we lived in Washington. This is all of them but Rachael who they dropped off in utah for school. Anyway Morgan called me one day and asked if they could come visit. I told them yes they better! They then called me again at eight at night and told me they were leaving utah then they were going to come up and stop in for a visit. I told them it would be late and they had better stay the night. So they did! I loved having them all in our house. that night we had 13 people in my little house. It was so fun. In the morning I woke up and make them wheat muffins and homemade strawberry jam. Kenidee loved having so many little friends. The youngest and Kenidee are only 3 months apart. Before they left the swing set came so James helped unload it off the truck. Thanks so much James I would have never been able to do that. I hope they will stop by again but maybe for longer.

Fourth of July

2009-07-16T23:33:00.005-06:00

Fourth of July weekend was so much fun. Robin’s parents came from Washington to visit. We spent our time crazy busy running around. We went to the Titanic display at the museum in Idaho Falls. It was great! I want to go again and leave the kids home with a baby sitter. On the fourth we went to a little breakfast in Rigby, and then headed to Rexburg for the parade. I am not a very good parade goer. I didn’t bring blankets or chairs and we didn’t get there early enough to get a good spot. Rachelle came with her roommates and brought a few blankets so we had somewhere to sit. I kind of scooted my way through the crowds of people so Kenidee could see the parade and get a few pieces of candy. We were so done with the parade before it was over. So we missed the crowds and hit the booths at Porter Park.
We couldn’t hid the splash park from Kenidee so we let her play around in the water for a few min. Bennett loved the water. Robin sat him right down in the water and he was just content to sit and splash in the water. After the splash park Robin’s mom and dad took the kids on the carousal. I was afraid that Kenidee would freak out, seeing how she liked the rides so much at lagoon. She did well and grandma stayed right by her. She didn’t want to get off. So that was fun. This was Bennett’s first carousal ride. He seemed to like it he didn’t complain at all. Papa even started to do some trick ridding with Bennett.
We came home and had well needed naps then had a little bbq at our house, and more resting. Then we headed out to the Menan fireworks. It was great as always. You can get there late and not have to be saving a spot for days. The kids love it and you see everyone you know. Kenidee loved it! She stayed awake until we got in the car to go home. Bennett fell asleep but woke up when the fireworks started. My mom was holding him and she said that when the fireworks were all over he kept looking for them.
Sunday Kenidee wanted to have a nick-nick (picnic) with papa on her new tramp. So after church on Sunday we pack a wonderful little picnic of otter pops juice and other junk food. Then papa and Kenidee had a little nick nick on the tramp.
We were sad to see Skip and Judy go back home, even more sad that they had to leave before the swing set came. Thank you so much Skip and Judy for coming and seeing us. We miss you and Kenidee won’t stop talking about coming to see papa and ju ju. See you in a few months!

Garbage Dumping

2009-07-15T22:53:00.002-06:00

One advantage to the whole building your neighbors house thing, is being able to move in and have insta-friends. ( I know there are some of us that still like each other, gasp) I would like to introduce you to my friend Desiree, she is so funny. We go on midnight runs to wal-mart together, borrow things from each other like milk, eggs, and garlic... well the list goes on and on. This night Des called me to see if she could barrow my garbage can. I told her yeah we have room, so she came over dragging a huge garbage can. they had not gotten garbage service, so they had a lot of garbage. The can had a few odds and ends in the top that we knew wouldn't fit in my can so we took it across the street and dumped it into another persons can. (thanks Michelle she didn't know till later)
Now it was time to lift this huge can up and put all the garbage in my can. Well.... I was standing down wind first and I started to gag, then laugh then gag. So being the good friend that she is Des switched me spots, and I no longer gaged but we sure did laugh. We did get all the garbage in our can, and we thought it was so funny. So we had to take pictures. I am so grateful for such a good friend.

Pictures of our house... finally!

2009-07-15T22:45:00.003-06:00

Well here is our house. We love it. It is so nice to be in our own house and to have our own things. I love that we have grass and a few nice play toys in the back yard. (pics of that in the next few posts) Yes, Bennett does have a room I didn't take pictures because it it still white and we just got him bedding. So when his room is all finished I will post pictures. We love our home and we love our ward. There is no other way to explain it but it just feels like home.

Lagoon!

2009-07-07T13:44:00.003-06:00

Robins Boss takes all of his workers to Lagoon for a summer party. He pays for tickets to Lagoon, one meal in Lagoon, a Hotel helps with gas and takes us to a fancy dinner at Magraffs (I think that is how you spell it.) fish house. This year it was the day after Relay for life. So I stayed up all night (well I had a 1 hour and a half nap) Came home had a shower and got in the car to head to Utah. Anyway It has been so much fun. this year we felt like Kenidee would be old enough to enjoy the rides at Lagoon. I think she thought she would like the rides at lagoon as well. When we got there she was so not a fan of them. Even the carousel (she has ridden them lots) she didn't like. I think she needed a riding buddy, maybe next year her and Bennett can ride the rides together. Thank you Dennis and Lori for such a great weekend. Kenidee did LOVE the water fountain when you first walk in. She would have been there all day long. We got her to leave by telling her we were going to go swimming at the hotel.

Relay for Life. with pictures

2009-07-05T23:02:00.004-06:00

What an amazing night. This was our first year participating in Relay for Life, and I think it is going to be something we as a family are going to do every year.
The evening started out with a small program and a Survivor walk. I wasn't prepared for the emotions I felt as I saw my little sister announce her name. I am so proud of Rachelle and everything she went through. She was always so strong, and I remember one of her nurses saying that Rachelle was always so sweet, they would come in to do whatever they needed to do in the middle of the night and Chelle would say thank you.
I remember when she was able to come home for a short time during her treatment. I was lying in bed with her one night, and I asked her "are you scared?" she told me "scared of what? Dying ....NO I am not going to die. Losing my hair.... naw it will grow back. I am afraid of being behind in school. She went on to tell me she knew that this was something she had to go through, that we all had to go through. What faith my baby sister had, and still has. She is forever the best example to me and my hero! I love you Rachelle.
Sorry...Oh to the fun night we had. There was so much yummy food and so many games. Everyone gathered for one cause to raise money to help find a cure for cancer. Every group had to do a game during the night. Our game was at 3:30Am Rachelle had played a few fun games First was the whip cream toss... Let’s see if I can explain this one person sprays whip cream on their lower arm or hand then swings it and hits it with the other hand sending the cream flying to another person hoping to catch it in their mouths.... this game is super fun but even better in the wee hours of the night.
Next game we played was...hummm I don't have a name for this but once again SUPER funny in the wee hours of the night. Two people put nylons on their heads; in one leg you put a tennis ball in the end. Then you swing the nylons around and around then try to wrap your nylon with the other person’s nylon. As soon as you are caught together you run and who ever pulls the nylon off the other persons head is the winner.
Things got a little out of had the nylons turned into....well who can make the best nylon face...Jarrett I think you won!
We even won the best night game award! I want to thank Robin Spencer for all her help and her wonderful donation.
It was such a fun night, I as a group we raised I think over $32,000. not quite our goal for the day but.. still quite a bit of money.

Seven months! (now pics and a clip of him crawling)

2009-06-30T19:43:00.003-06:00

Well tomorrow my baby boy will be seven month old.... where does the time go. He went to his six month appointment on the 15 of June and here are Bennett's stats for 6 months.
27 3/4 inches long
17 lbs and 4 oz
head is 17.25 cm
He is getting so big and really funny. He loves to laugh and to smile. He is a womanizer. He melts just about any ones heart with his wonderful smile and his dang cute dimple. He is getter better and better at sitting up, but this boy never holds still. he has been "crawling" (not on all fours) for about a month now. He is now just getting faster and faster.
He has started giving kisses. It is so incredibly cute, but beware if you ask him for a kiss you will get a mouth full of slobber. Bennett is a drooling machine. I don't think it ever turns off. It get worse when he is laughing or being really really happy.
I will post a picture and a little clip of him crawling later.

Giving Back.

2009-06-25T19:57:00.002-06:00

Photography by Robin has posted this on her blog. Thank you so much Robin Spencer for all your help.
As you have seen on Steph's post below we are involved in the Relay for Life with the American Cancer Society this weekend. As our way of giving back, for the next 5 people who call and schedule a session with us, we will give 100% of your session fee to The American Cancer Society. I would love to see a world without the fears of cancer. Please if you feel this is a cause that is close to your heart give us a call and schedule a session today. www.robinspencerphotos.com

Relay for Life.

2009-06-25T19:49:00.000-06:00

This weekend I am involved in Relay for Life. This event helps raise money for the American Cancer Society. The walk will be held at Madison High school in Rexburg, Idaho on Friday June 26 at 6:00 pm and we will walk through the night and it will end Saturday June 27.Robin Spencer (my boss) and I both have been effected by cancer in our lives. Robin has had 3 grandparents who have had cancer and 2 that have passed away from cancer as well as an aunt. My little sister Rachelle and my Grandpa have both survived cancer and I have had one Aunt pass away from cancer.Robin and I both feel that it is very important to help and that this is a way to give back. Cancer effects everyone whether they have it or know someone who has it. We want to help make a difference even if it is in some small way.We would love to see a world without cancer. Please if you feel the same... donate to our team, Chelle's Angles visit http://www.relayforlife.org/relay/node/5265. This page will give you instructions on how to donate, and will let you print out a receipt for your donation.Thank you for all your help.

What a funny girl!

2009-06-21T10:53:00.004-06:00

Kenidee is so funny, she always keeps me laughing even when I am frustrated with her. so I would like to share a few Kenidee stories.

Kenidee: Mom I want a skinny pig.

Me: A what?

Kenidee: you know mom a skinny pig, and I will name it fluffy just like Charlie and Lola.( a cartoon on disney she is obsessed with)

Me:Oh a ginny pig.

Kenidee: yeah a skinny pig.

My wedding dress had not been cleaned so my mom found out that if you wash it in laundry soap with no dyes or smells and use a stain aid that is clear too, and wash it in your washer on a gentle cycle it will wash it just fine. So I was brave and brought my dress home to wash.

I unzipped the bag to my dress and.....

Kenidee: oh mom is that your princess dress?

Me: yep I wore this when I married your daddy.

Kenidee: OH MOM IT IS SO SPARKLIE (as she is touching the beading so soft)

she is such a girl. She already tells me things like

"mom when I get married I am going to have a princess dress huh." or " mom when I find my prince I will get lots of flowers too huh."

One day she was running around all crazy and she runs up to me and says.... "mom I am a busy girl huh!" do you think she has heard this before?

Kenidee really really wants a puppy. Robin is all for it, but me I don't want a dog to take care of.

This is how our conversations about getting a dog goes.
Kenidee: mom do you like dogs?

me: no not really. ( i know boo hiss for me)

Kenidee: can I get a dog when I get big and big and bigger.

Me: Kenidee you can have a dog when you have your own house and your own kids.

Kenidee: okay mom!

a few days later......

Kenidee: Mom you don't like dogs do you

Me: they are fine when they live at someone elses house.

Kenidee: mom I can get a dog when I have my own house and my own kids huh.

Me: Sounds good to me.

Kenidee: mom can we go to Aunt Chelles house.

Me: not today but maybe another day

Kenidee: I have so much fun at chelles house. she let me play with all her special things....like ...... her monkey and her head(a mannequin head rachelle uses to scare people) she give me candy bars....(granola bars) Chelle is so fun huh.

Kenidee: Mom we don't say naughty words do we.

Me: no we don't

Kenidee: we don't say naughty words like..... (she looks at me) shut up.

Me: no that is a naughty word.

Kenidee: we don't say oh crap!

Me:nope that is a naughty word too.

Kenidee: and Stupid is a naughty word too huh mom

Me : yes kenidee they are all naughty words.

Kenidee: I will not say naughty words.

then she looks at me like HA I just said all the naughty words and didn't get in trouble.

Kenidee and our neighbor boy Logan are about the same age and they DO NOT get along.So one day after church I asked Kenidee did you play with Logan in nursery....Kenidee tell me no mom not today, Logan had his angry eyes in.