The Carpenter Family

Ballerina

2012-01-27T13:44:00.000-07:00

Carrie has always loved to dance.

This week she has been obsessed with the cartoon "Angelina Ballerina." As she watches she gets up and dances, imitating the moves she sees. She has been showing off her ballet moves all week, and of course, I love to watch her! It just might be time to get her into a dance class. :)

finally got some snow!!

2012-01-16T17:02:00.000-07:00

When we woke up this morning and saw it was blizzarding outside, I was instantly glad that the kids and I had nowhere we needed to be today. We got quite a bit of snow, and the snowplow didn't make it down our street until about 4 in the afternoon. My car is not great in the snow. So... we just stayed home. :) We got some jobs done around the house, the kids played outside, enjoyed some hot chocolate, played games, colored, and watched a movie. It has been a cozy fun day at home with the kids.

playing tag

hot chocolate mustache

yummm

from the mouth of babes

2012-01-12T14:39:00.000-07:00

My kids are always saying things that I tell myself I need to write down so I don't forget them. Unfortunately I am not usually good about writing them down, so sure enough... I forget them. Today I just wanted to take the time to remember a couple of the things they have said this week that have stuck with me, and have made me smile. :)

- Carrie was playing and being funny so I told her she was a silly goose. She responded, "I'm not a goose mama... I'm a chicken!! We are all chickens. We are a chicken family!" We laughed and laughed.

-One afternoon the morning sickness was getting to me, so I told the kids I was going to go rest for a few minutes because I wasn't feeling well. They went off to play. Later that evening I was talking to Andrew, and told him thank you for being such a good boy earlier, and letting me rest. He looked right at me and said, "Thanks for being my mom." He doesn't express those feelings often, so when he does it really means a lot. He totally melted my heart with that one.

I am going to try to take the time more often, as things are said, to write them down.

brother and sister

2012-01-11T12:24:00.000-07:00

It's no secret that I love these two kids... like crazy. Nothing makes me happier than to see them playing, giggling, and getting a long with one another. Of course there are those other moments too when they make each other cry, but in the end they still consider each other to be their best friend. They know that no matter what, the other will still love them. And I think that is pretty neat.

spring in January...

2012-01-09T13:35:00.000-07:00

It has been unusually warm for this time of year. Even despite the fact that we need more snow, I can't help but enjoy the warmer temps! The kids have loved it too. We have been able to go on walks, and they have spent a lot of time in the backyard playing, and riding bikes.

back!

2012-01-01T09:28:00.006-07:00

I have taken a nice little break from blogging, and to honest... I have needed it! It being a new year I am making some goals for myself, and one of those is to get back into blogging, more for myself than anything else. It has been so long that no one probably ever checks our blog anymore, and I guess that is okay. :)

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This last year has been quite the emotional roller coaster for me. I have felt inadequate as a mother, trying to help my son through some challenges. We have been tried financially as we have been unemployed twice. These are just a couple of the trials we have been through this year, but also the two that I have learned the most from.

**WARNING: this is a LONG story... I won't be offended if you decide to skip to the end. :)

I had been wanting to see a doctor and have my son Andrew tested, but had decided to wait until he was done with school for the year, and would have his sixth birthday in July. Unfortunately, mid June, Kevin was laid off from his job. I was frustrated about it, but not having health insurance we didn't have a choice but to wait. Kevin started working again in August, and as soon as we got our health insurance cards I set up an appointment for Andrew with his doctor (his school teacher had come to me expressing some concerns about Andrew, and things had also escalated to an all time high at home). We met with the doctor, and Andrew was diagnosed with ADD. That was no surprise... but still didn't answer all of our questions. We decided to try some medication in hopes that it would help him at school, and wanted to also get him in to see a counselor to further help him, and to also learn how we can better communicate and work with him at home. It had only been a couple of months, just as we are getting into this process, that Kevin again lost his job, and we were again left without any health insurance. The first time Kevin was laid off I went instantly into panic mode worrying about money, the house payment... ect. This time around, however, I was more concerned about my Andrew, and not being able to get him the help that I know he needed. At his point, the only thing I could do to help him was to pray. Of course this was not the first time I had prayed for him, but this time it was different. This time I felt helpless, and I was able to hand my problem over to the Lord. I then was comforted to know that in the end, everything would be okay. I was hoping to receive an answer in the way of an idea to help Andrew. That didn't happen, but I knew that the Lord understood my concerns and frustrations. I knew that the Lord would not leave me alone with no help for my son. I knew that I just needed to be patient with myself, and with Andrew. So we just kept going day by day as normal. It wasn't long, however, before things started to change. I didn't do anything differently as a mother, but Andrew began to change. I have watched him become more content, calm, and rational. He argues less, and gets upset less easily. He hasn't thrown one of his tantrums for almost two months. When he does get frustrated, I can talk to him and we can work through it fairly easily. He even seems HAPPY. He is not perfect of course, (he is still a six year old boy), but I have seen remarkable growth and maturity. I love my Andrew SO much.

To someone on the outside, this may not seem like a big deal. But to the mother on the inside who has struggled for years... this is a miracle. I don't know if this will be lasting, but I do know it is a blessing. Through it all, I have been left feeling grateful for a loving Heavenly Father who never leaves us alone. I have been humbled by the many ways in which we have been blessed. I have been reminded this year what is truly important in this life, and that is our families. It was a rough year with some lows, but we have never experienced such highs, either. I look forward to a new year, and a new chapter in our lives.

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Things to look forward too in 2012:

Kevin starting a new job (on Tuesday!!)

Carrie turning four

Andrew turning seven

spending lots of time with my kids

better scripture reading habits

(hopefully) buying a mini van

having baby #3 in June!!!

Me turning 30

more thoughtful FHE nights

dejunking and organizing

first day of school : 2011

2011-09-14T09:57:00.001-06:00

Andrew is in FIRST grade this year. It has been an adjustment for us having him gone all day, not to mention that is has completely worn him out. There have been a few nights where he has fallen asleep really early (5:00-6:00), and slept through the entire night. That is not normal around here!! He is learning a lot, and so far has loved first grade!!

Carrie started preschool the same day. It was kind of a last minute thing, but so far she has also loved it. It has been good to give her something to do a couple of days a week while Andrew is gone all day. But I must say... I have LOVED having the chance to have more one-on-one time with this sweet girl. She truly melts my heart.

let's have s'more fun!!!

2011-06-18T14:38:00.003-06:00

Life has been a little crazy-busy around here, and yesterday we were able to relax and have some family time. It was fabulous.

A few highlights of our day:

**Andrew finally decided he wanted to learn to ride his bike without training wheels... he got the hang of it right away.

It came so easily to him, so I told him that he should have tried that a long time ago (he has been scared until now to give it a good try), and he told me, "Yeah, I should have tried that yesterday!!" :)

**Carrie has finally mastered pedaling...

**We built a fire in the backyard (which you can see happening in the background in the last video), and made some s'mores.

fish lessons

2011-06-16T17:56:00.004-06:00

Andrew and Emma have been taking swimming lessons, or as I would tell them... fish lessons. They are both on their way to being awesome little fish, because they both passed the level that they were on.

These were taken one day while waiting for their lessons to start...

the three amigos

2011-06-10T15:08:00.002-06:00

all things pink...

2011-06-07T18:52:00.002-06:00

My younger sister Diana had a sweet red-headed baby girl...

They named her Sadie Ann.

I met my older sister Jen and my parents in Salt Lake, and we all drove up to Logan together to visit Diana at the hospital, and to meet baby Sadie. :)

All I can say is... she is a DOLL, and I can't wait to visit them again!

beautiful...

2011-06-03T15:34:00.003-06:00

Do you see those purple flowers that are behind Carrie?!? Just imagine them all in full bloom... they are covering all our flower beds in the front yard, and they are so BRIGHT. It may be silly, but these flowers make me so happy and I look at them every time I pull into our out of our driveway. I especially love them because they are so easy to take care of, I just have to cut them back once in a while, and they bloom from early spring until it gets cold in the fall. Perfect!!

school's out!!....

2011-05-23T12:16:00.003-06:00

Last Friday Andrew graduated from KINDERGARTEN!!

This is something he has been looking forward too, and is already talking about first grade. He has loved kindergarten, and since we moved part way through the year he had two different teachers, and both were great. His teacher here in Tooele, Mrs. Stowe, was especially top notch as she helped Andrew adjust to a new school, a different teaching style, making new friends.... ect. She went out of her way on more than one occasion to work with him, and we appreciate her so much. Andrew has loved Middle Canyon Elementary, and thinks it is the coolest school around. :)

let's take a pic or two...

2011-05-19T11:41:00.004-06:00

A few weeks ago I finally got around to taking some 3 year pictures of Carrie. This girl is not an easy one to capture on camera, she doesn't know how to hold still to save her life. And she is such a ham. I have way too many shots with her like this:

Typical Carrie with her tongue out. She loves sticking out her tongue... a lot.

Luckily I did get some without her sticking out her tongue that I liked.

Here is a sampling.

My beautiful girl...

you see the little freckles on her nose?!? ADORABLE if you ask me.

Showing off her daisy...

Her biggest cheesiest smile!

Showing how old she is.... THREE!! She is such a character.

I cannot tell you how much I love my Care Bear!!

lights out...

2011-05-17T15:33:00.004-06:00

It doesn't matter what I am doing... my kids are constantly checking up on me, chatting with me, and playing near me. On this particular day Carrie had some toys and was playing by me. I was working, and didn't notice her leave. After several minutes I realized she had gone, and couldn't hear her, so decided I had better go check on her and see what she was up too. I went first to the toy room, since that is where she will usually be, but she wasn't there. Across the hallway I caught a glimpse of her in her room. She had gone into her room, closed the blinds, turned on her the night light, turned on the ceiling fan, and snuggled herself up in bed and had fallen sound asleep. I guess she needed a nap!! That has never happened... (and in all honesty will probably never happen again). She is just too darn cute!

a little bit of dirty work...

2011-05-07T22:41:00.016-06:00

We are so excited about the opportunity we have to be home owners. There are so many things that are still new to us, and that we are getting used too. Yard work is probably at the top of the list!! We are excited to be able to have a garden, and are hoping for the best with it. It has been a fun family project. :)

...s.p.r.i.n.g...

2011-05-05T16:54:00.003-06:00

......to be a kid again.

the park = FUN!!!

2011-05-04T16:46:00.014-06:00

The sun was out, and so were we. These were actually taken at an activity put on by DDI vantage where Carrie is enrolled. She loves it there, and it has been the best thing for her. She is talking more, (we had her tested and she was low on her speech), and she is becoming a little bit less shy. YAY!! It is alway a good feeling to see your kids improve. We had a great time at the Spring Fling they put on for the kids!!

It's about time!...

2011-03-31T13:12:00.006-06:00

We have been sick at our house for three weeks.

Now that we are all finally on the mend and feeling pretty good...

we were blessed with some sunshine!!!

We have been in need of some good weather and some fresh air!

Can ya tell?

We took time to enjoy the sun and work in the yard, ride scooters and bikes, have picnics, give wagon rides, and just be glad to be outside and feel the warmth of the sun!!

It has done us all good. :)

Happy St. Patrick's Day!!!

2011-03-17T16:36:00.009-06:00

Who would have known that dying noodles green and saying the leprechauns did it would get my picky picky eater to eat all of his lunch!!

We need those leprechauns around year round!

I was surprised that Carrie, who will eat just about anything would not touch the noodles.
She told me "Ewwww..."

Oh well. You win some, you lose some!!

Happy happy BIRTHDAY!!!....

2011-03-01T14:45:00.006-07:00

I know I am a little slow in posting this....

but.....

on January 30th...

Carrie had a birthday!!

I can hardly believe that my baby girl is THREE YEARS OLD. Seriously, where does the time go?? We had a ton of fun celebrating... the parties went on for days!! :)

Here are some pictures to remember this birthday by....

HAPPY BIRTHDAY to our sweet THREE year old girl!!

We love you so much Carrie, and are so glad to have you in our family!!

....and this little video clip especially for my mom!!

b-ball...

2011-02-11T12:16:00.004-07:00

Andrew has had the opportunity to be in Jr. Jazz this year. This is his first experience with any type of organized sport. Because he is in Kindergarten they don't play actual games or have a tournament, but learn the fundamentals of basketball. It has been more of a challenge than I thought (hour and a half long practices for a 5 year old are not easy!!), but it has also been very good for him. I hope he will want to do this again!!

Here is our own little "Jimmer" man...

This is where it all starts, right?

My Little Girl....

2011-01-17T15:39:00.004-07:00

...is not so little anymore!!

I can't believe how big my Carrie is getting. Time flies too quickly, and they grow up way too fast!!
and yes, she is eating in the pantry closet. She loves it in there! :)

Merry Christmas!!

2011-01-11T11:25:00.002-07:00

Just a few pictures to help us remember Christmas 2010...

sledding...

2010-11-29T15:08:00.002-07:00

Over the weekend my sister was nice and offered to take our kids sledding while Kevin and I got some Christmas shopping done.

The kids had a blast in the snow!!

She took a few pictures for me too.... :)

....The kiddos with their cousin Emma....

Family Home Evening...

2010-11-22T14:22:00.002-07:00

changes...

2010-11-17T10:14:00.009-07:00

Moving is hard.

It has been an adjustment for all of us.

I especially worried about Andrew having to move and start at a new school. He loved his other school... the teacher, the activities, his friends. I felt like a bad mom making him move. I went through the same thing when I was in elementary school... I remember it being scary, and in some ways hard. However, I also felt good about what we were doing, getting a home, and settling down somewhere. Needless to say the first week of school for Andrew was hard. He is now in his third week, and things seem to be going much better. His teacher has worked with Andrew and gone out of her way to help him feel welcome, accepted, and a part of the class. A mom couldn't ask more from a teacher!! He is making friends and is right back where we left off... LOVING school.

Can't you just hear the sigh of relief??

Andrew's Kindergarten picture... I sure love that face!!

first snow...

2010-11-08T12:59:00.003-07:00

of the season!!!

We certainly have loved having our own FENCED backyard!!! The kids loving going out there to play, and I love sending them out!! Definitely a win win if you ask me. :)

Andrew couldn't get outside fast enough to enjoy it.

trick or.... treat?

2010-10-30T21:55:00.013-06:00

Today my mom and dad came out to the house to visit. We went with my sister Jen, her husband Ron, and their daughter Emma to go trick-or-treating down Main Street here in Tooele.

...the 3 kiddos costumed up and ready to go...

...silly faces....

...walking down Main Street with Grandma...

...Emma and Carrie...

lasts and firsts...

2010-10-29T14:40:00.002-06:00

Today was Andrew's last day of school at Rosamond Elementary. He loved his teacher Mrs. Rizer, and made a lot of good friends in his class. He will miss it, but is excited to move and start a new kindergarten class. His class had a Halloween party today, he has been talking about this party for weeks!! What a great way to end a great experience. We are so proud of this boy. :)

Andrew in his Mario costume

and one with the mustache.

our best attempt of the three of us :)

the first time putting on her costume she didn't really like it...

After Andrew was done with school or the day we headed to Salt Lake to visit Kevin at work. They had trick-or-treating for the employees kids. Both Carrie and Andrew had a blast. In the end Carrie ended up with at least twice as much candy because at each desk she would grab a handful. TOO CUTE!! It was fun to meet some of the people Kevin works with in such a relaxed environment.

loading up on some goodies...

can you tell she is pleased with herself??

This was also a very big and exciting day for the Carpenter family. This was the day we officially moved in and starting living in our new home in Tooele. We love our new home. What a huge blessing!!!!

good time...

2010-10-27T12:35:00.002-06:00

My Dad has been taking a college computer class. Tonight is one of our last nights for us to live in my parents' home, so he decided to skip out of his class and spend the time with Andrew and Carrie. He showed up with two large pumpkins to carve and apple cider. The kids had a fun time designing the faces to carve and be involved. They were very proud of the results. I am so thankful to have a mom and dad that love me, would do anything for me, and also love my little family. They have been so good to us while we have been in their home. They have also helped in SO many ways to get us into our home. We love and appreciate them so much!!

...whatever Andrew does, Carrie does...

...these kids sure love their Grandpa Allen...

...and their Grandma Allen...

...just a little silliness...

...beautiful Carrie...

...cheeeesy Andrew...

the boss...

2010-10-05T12:21:00.003-06:00

A conversation I overheard today...

Carrie (to Andrew): "thank you Mom"

Andrew: "I am not Mom, I am ANDREW!!..

and I am bigger than you,

so that means I am the BOSS!

Mom and Dad are bigger than me,

so they are the boss of me."

I am glad he realizes that.... now if only he would really listen when I talk to him!!

celebrate good times... come on!!!

2010-09-28T13:10:00.002-06:00

My parents recently had their kitchen remodeled. My Grandma and Grandpa Naylor wanted to come over to see the changes, so we turned it into a night of fun. They ended up staying for dinner and just hanging out. My Grandpa's birthday is on the 30th, so we decided to throw in a birthday celebration in there as well. I love my grandparents, it is always fun to see them. The kids had fun playing with them as well. What great people they are!!!

LOVE THEM!!

and... blowing out the birthday candles!!

home sweet home...

2010-09-28T12:24:00.002-06:00

We closed on our house on Friday, and yesterday we were able to get the keys. It is official... we have a house!!! We are beyond excited, but I know I am also at the point of being overwhelmed with how to get everything done so we can move in. We want to paint all of the walls, get the carpets cleaned, ect., before we move in. We are not in a rush, as we are living with my parents, so that part is nice. We drove out to Tooele last night to show the house to the kids. They were so excited!! We all are, and it was fun to share it with them. My parents also came out to see it, and Jen came over also. What an exciting thing, and a huge step for our family!! There was a time that I never thought this would really happen, and I can't help but feel extremely blessed.

buddies...

2010-09-27T12:55:00.002-06:00

Since we bought a home in Tooele we have spent a lot of time driving back and forth from Riverton to Tooele. We have been working on our home before actually moving in. One night we were all in the car together driving back to my parents home. The kids were in the back seat talking and laughing. When I looked back they were holding hands and singing a song. I just happened to have the camera, so I quickly snapped a shot. It is the best feeling in the world to see your kids getting a long and having fun. What a lucky mom I am!!!

must. hide. SCISSORS!!!

2010-09-23T12:25:00.003-06:00

Earlier this week Andrew was in my parents bathroom and came across some hair cutting scissors. I had given him a haircut over the weekend, but I guess he decided it wasn't enough. He decided to give himself a little haircut. In reality what he ended up with is stripes on his head and a nice large bald spot. I then tried to make it look better, but really just made it worse, so I stopped. The silver lining I found in this was that one: at least he didn't get hurt, and two: at least it wasn't Carrie's hair!!!

Today I was in the basement at my parents home busily working on laundry. Carrie decided she wanted to brush her teeth, and was in the bathroom. I went by the hallway to get another laundry basket and peeked into the bathroom to see Carrie. I instantly gasped. I could see long strands of hair on the ground. I walk in.... she instantly freezes, scissors still in her hand. She knew what she had done was wrong, and felt so bad. She kept hiding her face, not wanting to look at me, afraid she was in big trouble. She didn't get in "big trouble," but we did have a nice chat about it. She is such a sensitive girl, already felt bad, so I didn't need to do anything more. My sweet beautiful girl.... now has a large bald spot on the front of her head matching her brothers. I was upset with Andrew's, but his will grow in in a week or so and not be noticeable. She has long think hair.... her bald spot unfortunately is VERY noticeable. I have loved having a little girl, and I absolutely love her thick dark hair. Although there is still a silver lining here..... at least she didn't get hurt... it is still sad to me!!!

plain tuckered...

2010-09-21T12:43:00.014-06:00

Andrew refused to eat what I made for dinner tonight. Unfortunately this is a common occurance, and something I would like to change!! So I put my foot down and told andrew he would eat his dinner or get nothing to eat at all. He was not happy about this and decided to throw a very large fit. So I put him in time out at the top of the stairs. He was waling, screaming, crying... so I told him when he was quiet I would come back and we would talk. This went on for several minutes until at last.... there was quiet. I went back, as promised, to talk to him, and this is what I found....

Andrew sound asleep right where I left him.

He was obviously exhausted.

When he woke up... he still refused to eat his dinner.

Do I get an "A" for effort?? I hope so.

finally came out...

2010-09-20T12:30:00.003-06:00

First thing Sunday morning Andrew came in, excited as could be, to tell Kevin and I that his tooth had finally fallen out!! It had been loose for a while, really loose for a couple days. He was so excited to show it to us. That night we tucked it safely under his pillow so that the tooth fairy could come to get it. The tooth fairy did come, and left his 4 quarters. Saying he was thrilled would be an understatement. :) He was so proud he lost his tooth, and has loved showing the "hole" in his mouth where the tooth was.

Yesterday was Audrey's baby blessing. I was able to go with Carrie, and it turned out to be a lovely day with family. Kevin went with Andrew to see his oldest brother Jon ordained a High Priest. He has been called to be on the High Council in his stake.

I love my kids.

2010-09-17T12:34:00.003-06:00

That is just a fact.

I really honestly and truly believe that they are the coolest kids, and feel so lucky that I get to be their mom. Are they perfect? Definitely not. Do they try my patience? Every day. That doesn't take away one single bit how much I love and adore them. They are my biggest challenge, but they also bring me the greatest joy.

Yesterday the kids and I we were playing outside in the sandbox. Both Andrew and Carrie were content digging, building, and playing in the sand. One of those -ahhhh- moments where life just feels good. As they were playing Andrew decided that he would like to build a cake in the sand. He then told me, "Mom, this cake is for you!!" Oh how sweet. :) Once he had the "cake" made, he went off to explore the yard for something to use as candles to put on top of the cake. He came back with 5 wood chips. He placed the wood chips carefully on the cake, then pretended to "light" the candles. He then sang the "Happy Birthday" song to me. I blew out the candles, after making a wish of course. He then sliced up the cake, and the kids and I devoured that cake. I told Andrew it was the most delicious cake I had ever had. It even had extra frosting, just the way I like it. :)

I am home with my kids each and every day, ALL day long. You would think that I would have a lot of those -ahhhh- moments. I am usually too busy being distracted by life. One of my goals is to actually have more of these moments. How do I do that? Spend more time with my kids. Not just "being" there, but spending real quality time with them. Get on the floor and play with them, talk to them, spend time reading stories, and using our imaginations. This can only be a good thing. Not just for them, but for me as well!! I want to be a good mom. I want that more than probably anything else in this world. I want my kids to know that their mother loves them, and as they grow older feel that, but also know that I love them enough to spend time with them. Time is precious. This is something that I am learning. These years with my kids will be gone before I am ready, but I know that it will be my biggest regret if I don't take full advantage of this time I have been given with them.

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On a side note: Andrew is always saying things that make me laugh.
This is a conversation I had with him this morning....

We are getting ready to leave the house, and Andrew finds me in my room getting ready.
Andrew: Mom, do you know where my shoes are??
Me: I think you put them on your bed.
Andrew starts out of the room to go look where I had suggested, but stops in the doorway...
Andrew: Hey mom, thanks for the information. :)

for the memory...

2010-09-16T12:37:00.005-06:00

Today I was in playing the piano (one of the perks of living with the parents), and Andrew came in and sat on the couch to listen. He asked me, "Are you playing 'I am a Child of God?'" I told him that indeed I was (I was playing Marvin Goldstein's arrangement). To that he responded, "Sweeet." That sure put a smile on my face!! :)

friends...

2010-09-08T22:11:00.008-06:00

What did we do today??

We got to have a visitor... and a very cute one at that!!

My brother's little girl Elyse came over today to play for a while. She is so cute, and both of my kids were excited to have her here. They spent most of their time playing outside: jumping on the trampoline, playing cars, chasing each other, and laughing... a lot. Elyse is big into "friends" (or at least she was today), and kept saying, "Andrew is my friend," or "Carrie is my friend." I am glad to know she thinks of Andrew and Carrie as her friend, because I know that they think of her, (and all of their cousins) as their friends.

COUSINS make the BEST friends!!!

-Elyse and Carrie sharing an Otter Pop moment-

Shapes...

2010-09-07T12:15:00.002-06:00

While at my parents house the kids spent a lot of time sitting at the kitchen table making designs with these shapes. They have started playing more together, and having more of an actual conversation. It is fun to watch them play and interact with one another. It helped Carrie with her speech, as well as learning shapes and colors!!

Headed Outdoors...

2010-09-04T12:12:00.002-06:00

We lived at my parents' home for a couple of months after Kevin graduated so he could start his new job in Salt Lake, and before we could move into our new home. We appreciate my parents letting us do that. We had a good time there, and the kids enjoyed having some much deserved and needed freedom to play outside!! Here are some random pics enjoying the outdoors. :)

First day...

2010-09-03T15:30:00.005-06:00

of Kindergarten!!

-Andrew waiting to go into his classroom-

Andrew has had the opportunity to see his teacher a couple of times already this week, but today was the first day of school. He goes in the afternoon, which I think will turn out to be better than I had originally thought. It gives us some time to hang out in the morning, get ready for the day without being rushed, have lunch... then off to school. This morning Andrew was very excited. We live close to the elementary, so we were able to walk. He pushed Carrie in the stroller almost the whole way there... he told me he needed a break, and asked me to push her. Before we could continue, however, he had to show me his muscles, because he said pushing her that distance had made him even stronger!!!

When we got there Andrew was a little timid and unsure. We were there in plenty of time, but there were already other kids playing on the playground with their parents there waiting. After a couple of minutes he decided he was brave enough to go play, which he did, and had a lot of fun. When it came time to go into the classroom there was a mad rush to the door, both kids and parents alike. Knowing that Andrew can be easily overwhelmed, I decided to let Andrew play until it died down. We then walked to the door, gave him a hug and told him goodbye. He looked back at me, unsure, because several of the other parents had gone into the classroom with their kids. I reassured him, and told him he was okay, and he happily went inside. I saw him hang up his backpack, and head to his seat. Feeling satisfied Carrie and I left and walked back home. When we picked him up from school he was happy, but tired. I think that school is going to wear this boy out, and today was short day!!!

a little distraction...

2010-08-09T20:36:00.004-06:00

Just a quick sample of what the kiddos have been doing
while Mom is busy trying
(or at least thinking about)
packing.

birthday boy...

2010-07-06T21:04:00.002-06:00

Where does the time go?!?

We are so excited to be celebrating Andrew's birthday today. It is kind of a bitter sweet feeling for me of course... excited he is growing and getting to experience new things, while at the same time wishing I could slow down time.

In honor of this awesome little man on his special day I thought I would take a quick walk down memory lane to see how he has changed and grown over the past 5 years...

FIRST YEAR...

SECOND YEAR...

THIRD YEAR...

FOURTH YEAR...

and...

his FIFTH BIRTHDAY!!!!

Andrew has actually been celebrating his birthday on and off for a few days now, what a great birthday it has been!!!! Since today is his actual birthday I will focus on that. To start his birthday off right Kevin surprised Andrew with his favorite breakfast... cinnamon rolls. He then got to go to swimming lessons (and show off his new goggles), then just chill at home and wait patiently for Kevin to come home from work. We then ate dinner (he chose empanadas). Kevin made a map of our home, and had Andrew follow the map to find his presents, he loved doing that. Then we had some cake... and opened presents!!

Andrew is such an energetic and smart boy. He learns new things quickly!! He is a wiz on the computer, and we have recently had to put parental controls on our computer because he has now learned to google!!! (His favorite thing to google is super mario brothers). He loves to run, ride his bike, jump on the trampoline, and now swim. He tells me regularly that when he grows up he wants to play basketball!! He is always coming up with his own games, drawing them out on paper. He loves to write, read, and do math. He is a great brother. Andrew has a fun personality, and one of the best laughs around. He specializes in being goofy and telling jokes. When he finds something funny he says, "that's silly."

We love you Andrew....

HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!!

potty talk...

2010-06-17T20:50:00.005-06:00

For the last week and a half or so we have been working on potty training with Carrie.

We will be moving in a couple of months, and I hadn't planned on even thinking about potty training until sometime after that. Carrie had other plans. One day she just decided that she didn't want to wear a diaper... so... potty training came into full effect!! We have been surprised at how well she has done, and how eager and excited she has been about it. We haven't even attempted night time without a diaper yet, so I wouldn't say she is "officially" trained... but she is doing great!!! Potty training is not one of my favorite parts of being a mom (that and laundry), but Carrie has made it simple!! She really is such a joy to have in our family, we love her so much!!

Of course a little light reading to help the time pass...

You gotta pucker up your lips, like this...

2010-06-09T14:49:00.006-06:00

I just couldn't resist.

I can't resist those puckered-up lips either.... they are just too darn cute.

Gone Fishin'...

2010-06-06T10:19:00.002-06:00

There is a fishing pond at Willow Park here in Logan. Today they had 'free fishing day' as well as a lot of booths set up with activities for the kids to do. We went to all of the booths, and at the end each of the kids got a free t-shirt. The highlight of the day though was definitely the fishing. We were able to borrow a fishing pole there, so Kevin had a chance to teach Andrew how to cast the line and reel it back in.

Later in the day we had a BBQ, then Kevin worked with Andrew on riding a bike without training wheels. That didn't really last too long... as Andrew is still afraid, even with Kevin right there helping him. Oh well, no rush, maybe another day!!!

While Kevin and Andrew were busy bike riding Carrie and I found our own ways to entertain ourselves.

We had so much fun spending time together as a family today...
after all, isn't this what life is all about?!?

Remember that ONE day..

2010-06-03T23:53:00.010-06:00

...when the sun decided to shine?!?

Earlier this week we had some fun in the sun... at least for one day. Or... at least for most of the day. Still waiting on that summer weather to come and stay. Although, at the same time as we don't have air conditioning I am also grateful for the rainy cooler weather. ANYWAY... back to the topic of sun!!

We did have a day of sunshine, and so we made the most of it!! We went to the park, visited Kevin at work and walked around the USU campus (which is where he works), went to lunch, swam, ran, slid.... oh what an action packed day. It was perfect!!!

A spontaneous mini photo session with my beautiful girl on this beautiful day...

We have a small hill behind our place, and it is currently filled with dandelions. Both of my kids are fascinated with this hill and I am given fresh picked dandelions on almost a daily basis. I am pretty much the luckiest mom ever. :)

On with the show... the main attraction: swimming!!!

Andrew has been talking for months now about the day we would pull out the pool and swim!! You can see in the pictures below how he spent his time during the grand opening of our pool. :) Funny kid. Carrie on the other hand couldn't get enough!!!

A short sampling of what Carrie did over, and over, and over, and yes... even over again.

and last but not least (well, I'm not gonna lie, it just may be my favorite part)..........

the RESULT of all of this sun excitement!!

Must be the month to GRADUATE!!!

2010-05-31T00:50:00.004-06:00

What an exciting month this has been... we have been able to celebrate not one, but TWO graduations!!!

My handsome Kevin graduated from Utah State with a Masters of Accountancy degree on May 7. It definitely hasn't been easy to get to this point (and he still actually has two more classes to take this summer), but I know in the end it will be well worth it. I cannot express in words how excited I am at the thought of being done with school!!! We have been doing the school thing since we got married. We both have a Bachelor's degree, and now a Master's to top it off. How truly blessed we have been on this journey!!!

I am so proud of Kevin!

On May 28 Andrew graduated from preschool. I am so proud of my boy and all that he has learned this year. Finding this preschool was an answer to prayer, and has been so so good for him in so many ways. His teacher, Miss Suzanne, has been remarkable. She has always been patient with helping and teaching Andrew. Because of this he has come to not only love school, and love his teacher... but he has also come out of his shell a little bit. The most important things I feel he has learned from this experience are: how to behave at school, be polite, be creative, make new friends, try new things, to be more patient, use his imagination more, express himself more clearly (what he is feeling, ect.), and to have more confidence in himself. There are countless other things he has learned as well. I am so grateful he has been able to have this experience, and we are looking forward to Kindergarten in the fall!!! Andrew is especially excited. We have been telling him that when he is five he will go to Kindergarten. So he is determined in thinking that he will start on July 7, the day after his fifth birthday. :) Andrew absolute loves to learn, and we can only hope that this continues!!!

...BUBBLES...

2010-05-24T14:00:00.007-06:00

Feast your eyes on one of Andrew's favorite pastimes. (That is when the sun decides to come out and visit for a minute or two anyway)...

Finals Week...

2010-05-06T11:03:00.005-06:00

can be exhausting for the whole family.

what a glorious day...

2010-03-24T19:52:00.004-06:00

The weather was right... and the sunshine did us some good!!

Andrew came home from preschool today with a kite he made "all by himself." He was so pleased with it, and could not wait to test it out!! Afterall... (in Andrew's words)... March is the perfect time to fly a kite!!!

After much running, jumping, chasing, twirling, sliding, digging, and bike pedaling... some refreshment was in order.

thanks to some brief moments of WARMER weather...

2010-03-18T13:05:00.004-06:00

...we have been able to escape the indoors.

We are greatly looking forward to the day that the warm weather
decides to stay!

I often struggle...

2010-03-03T10:45:00.004-07:00

with getting Andrew to eat.

He is very picky (has been since he was a tiny baby), and is very reluctant to try anything new. Even when I have made something, and he does actually taste it and like it, there is no guarantee that I will ever be able to get him to eat it again. It can be very frustrating!!! Tonight for dinner I made chicken wraps. I served dinner and Andrew freaked out that this "thing" was on his plate. Kevin happened to be up on campus late, so I was on my own. We argued about it and finally I told him he just needed to take one bite... just a taste... thats IT!!! Well, he refused. He then stormed out of the room, ran up the stairs, went to his room and shut the door behind him. I was frustrated, so I waited a few minutes before going up to check on him. After I felt calm I went up to his room in hopes of encouraging him to come back down to eat.

When I went in... this.... is what I saw...

How could I be upset?!? I asked Andrew if he would like to come and eat, and he said, "No Mom, I am reading my Book of Mormon." I then told him I would give him a few more minutes then come back. A few minutes later I go back in, and he is still sitting on his bed, flipping through the book, one page at a time. Me: Andrew, are you ready to go eat? Andrew: No Mom, this is a LONG book!!! By that time Carrie and I had already finished eating. A few minutes later I went in to check yet again, and THIS is what I saw...

I don't think there is a more beautiful sight then to see my kids "reading" the Book of Mormon. True they are not really reading, and true they don't understand the full importance of this book yet... but it did my heart good to see that. What an amazing reminder this was to me of how important that is not only for myself, but for my family. It is my responsibility to teach my children the gospel. I never anticipated how much my children could teach me, and at such young ages. The blessings of being a mother are tremendous. I love the gospel of Jesus Christ, and I love my family. For these reasons I will strive to live in the way my Heavenly Father would have me live. I want to be with my family forever.

Happy birthday to you...

2010-02-18T21:46:00.004-07:00

Happy birthday to you... Happy birthday dear KEVIN...
happy birthday to YOU!!

We had a fun day celebrating Kevin's birthday!! Kevin woke up bright and early to go to class, only to find out his professor had canceled it. What a great way to start out the day!! So Kevin went to Burger King and surprised us with CinniMini's. He then had to go to work and back to school. While he was gone the kids and I made preparations for the evening when Kevin would come home. I cannot express in words how excited Andrew was about everything. When I told him this morning that it was Daddy's birthday he said, "Oh, he turned 10!!!" I told him no, Daddy is turning 29... and his response was, "Cool!!" So we got busy cleaning up the house, making cards, making a happy birthday banner, and decorating the cake. Once Kevin did make it home we didn't spend a long time together before it was time for the kids to go to bed, but it was so perfect!! There are times where things just feel good, and you just feel happy... this was one of those times for me. There is no greater thing than spending time with my little family, and I cherish those moments so much!!!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY KEVIN!!!

the month of HEARTS...

2010-02-09T15:51:00.005-07:00

Our project for today... Andrew's valentines!!

Andrew is excited for Valentines Day (mostly because he knows he gets to have a party at school on Friday!!). We whipped up some paint today so he could make some cards for the other kids in his school class. He loves to paint, and was all over this project. The greatest part, it kept him quietly busy (key word there is quietly... he is usually busy... just not quietly!!!) for at least a good hour!! Turns out he layered the paint on pretty thick... it is good we got an early start since they will take quite awhile to dry!!! All in all it was a good project (assuming they really do dry!!)

Snug as a Bug...

2010-02-03T14:51:00.006-07:00

We put up the toddler bed for Carrie to try out. I must admit I was very hesitant about this. Carrie is an amazing sleeper, and I didn't want to do anything that might interfere with that. We are still working with Andrew to help him become a better sleeper, but when he was Carrie's age and learning to sleep in the toddler bed (we had to with him fairly early since he learned to climb out of the crib) it was a lot of work, stress, tears, and not as much sleeping as we would have liked. I didn't really want to go through that again, at least not yet!! The first night Carrie came out of her room a few times, until we decided to just put her in her crib. However, a little later Andrew went to bed, yet Carrie was still awake. We decided to give her one more chance. The crib was still up in their room, along with the toddler bed and Andrew's bed, so the room was crowded to say the least. With this arrangement the toddler bed was right next to Andrew's bed. Carrie saw Andrew in his bed sleeping... and we were very surprised, but after that she didn't get out of bed again, she went right to sleep.

How did she do the next night!?!?...

... AWESOME, that's how!!!

We have now had 3 successful nights, and 2 naps in the bed. YAY Carrie!!! Most of the time she doesn't come out of her room at all. She likes to look at a book in her bed, but then will go to sleep. She has slept all through the night, and the earliest she has gotten up was at 8. Hopefully this trend will continue!! Like I said, she is an amazing sleeper, and has always been one to want her sleep! Andrew likes the thought of her in a bed too, so it is pretty exciting all around.

happy birthday to our 2 YEAR OLD girl...

2010-01-31T15:03:00.007-07:00

My amazingly talented Grandpa Naylor made a cute cute cupboard for Carrie for her birthday. Wow. I am pretty sure it is the coolest thing that we own... not to mention the best looking. Carrie is in love with it already. She was so excited about it, and couldn't wait to try it out. It was also the first thing she wanted to do this morning. I love this gift so much for so many reasons. My Grandma and Grandpa Naylor are very special to me. I spent a lot of time with them growing up. I went to year-round school, and when my younger sister and I would go "off track" we would spend those weeks at my grandparents home. I could go on and on about how incredible they are!!! I love them both so much, they are wonderful examples to me, and I really could not express in words how awesome they truly are. I wish they could have been here when Carrie received this gift. This little cupboard I am sure will be used for years to come, and for me will always be a reminder to me of the amazing people they are.

Carrie had a great birthday (her birthday was yesterday). It was fairly low key, but it was a very nice day. My parents came up to visit, spoiling my kids with lots of love and attention, and my sister Diana and her husband came over later. We had pizza, fruit, cake, and ice cream.

I cannot believe that my baby is TWO already!! What a great addition she has been to our family. We love her more and more each day. My favorite things to do with Carrie as of late: snuggle up and read stories, hold her hand while we walk, watch Cinderella, play pretend, and give/get lots and lots of kisses!!

Happy happy Birthday Carrie!

We love you!!!!

let it snow...

2010-01-30T23:02:00.001-07:00

This weekend we got some good snow... so I bundled up the kids to enjoy!! I guess my kids are not big on the snow, or maybe it just takes some getting used to, but they didn't want to stay out for too long. Carrie refused to wear gloves, then fell catching herself in the snow with her hands... that was it, she was done. Andrew braved the cold wet stuff a little better, but even he didn't get in to it the way I thought he would. I am sure there will be plenty more snow days for them to enjoy... that is one of the great things about living in Logan!!

Have your cake...

2010-01-29T16:03:00.006-07:00

...and eat it too!!

(TOMORROW we will do just that!!!)

TODAY...

2010-01-27T13:00:00.008-07:00

...it was lip gloss.

The fun just never seems to stop around here!!!

(Maybe you can't tell by looking at this picture... but her hair is covered in cherry flavored lip gloss. At least she smells good... always trying to look at the positive!!)

The problem: Our bathroom door has a child proof door knob thing on it... but Carrie has learned how to OPEN it!! AHHH!!! The result: mess... after mess... after mess.

Good thing she is so stinkin cute!!!!

to the LIBRARY we go...

2010-01-26T13:45:00.011-07:00

Tuesday morning for the kids and I = storytime. We were running late this morning and were in a mad rush getting ready to go. I had just finished getting myself ready, and on my way to shoo the kids out the door. I turned around and gasped, and Andrew said "what mom?" He turned, saw what I saw, then said... "uh-oh." Carrie had done it again. In a matter of seconds she found something she shouldn't have, and well... made a mess.

MASCARA. everywhere...

...amazing how quickly a small body can make such large messes.

The above picture: the aftermath of Carrie's face. Not pictured: the aftermath of my bathroom.

So I did the best I could to quickly wash her face, although when we were at the library I realized I did not do that great of a job. Oh-well. Andrew enjoyed his time listening to stories and singing songs, while Carrie and I enjoyed picking out books and watching fish.

I love the library. I love taking my kids to the library. They are both so easily entertained while we are there, and they both get excited to checkout some new books. Today, I found Andrew a new game to try on the computer. He is playing it right now as we speak. I could not express in words how excited he was about this!!! I also checked out a couple of these books to try with Andrew...

I had never read them, and wasn't sure if they would be too advanced for him, or if he would have the attention span for them. We have read the first couple of chapters together already, and so far he has given them two thumbs up.

The moral of this story?? Today... we went to the library. It was fun.

THE END.

takin it easy...

2010-01-25T19:41:00.007-07:00

Today Andrew came across some 3D glasses and wore them for quite a while. He wanted me to take pictures of him making "silly" faces, and so... I did. What a goof ball he can be!!

I went up to my room today and this is what I saw...

...Carrie not only tucked her baby in to bed, but she seems to be sharing her most prized possessions!! She love love LOVES her lovey blankets, and doesn't let go of them easily. How nice of her to share them with her baby!!!

It takes a lot of work, and a lot of Practice...

2010-01-22T12:57:00.009-07:00

GOALS. That is what Andrew has been learning about at preschool this month. The teacher had each child set a goal for them to work on in class. They had started learning how to tie shoes... so that is the goal Andrew chose. He has been working so hard on this goal at home as well. Today when I picked Andrew up from school he was so excited because he got to bring his 'goal chart' home today. Why?!? Because he had reached his goal... he tied a shoe today!!! Andrew has told me himself that, "It takes a lot of work, and a lot of practice," but he didn't give up. SO proud. Definitely fridge worthy.

A conversation I had with Andrew on the ride home from school today...

Andrew: "Mom, are you 8?"

Me: "No, I am 27."

Andrew: "But you don't look 27!! You must be 8."

... oh how I love him!!!!

our little miss CURLY locks...

PHOTO opportunity...

2010-01-19T13:32:00.010-07:00

Carrie is almost 2, so I decided to have a little photo shoot with her. She definitely acts like a 2 year old, I can't get her to hold still for even one second, so it was a little more tricky than I had planned for!!! But... I was able to get a few that I liked. I love this little girl to pieces, and cannot believe how grown up she is getting!! I always get excited to celebrate birthdays, especially my kids... but I don't think I have ever been as excited as I am for Carrie's upcoming birthday. Its winter... we get bored around here. I guess it is time for a party!!!

**Someday I want a better camera, or to learn how to use the camera I do have better. In the meantime... this is what we get!

always changing...

2010-01-15T17:29:00.007-07:00

This little girl is growing up way too fast!! I am often amazed at how fast time flies by... sometimes that is a good thing, but when it comes to my kids it makes me feel bad. I just wish I could hold on to each age and stage a little bit longer. What has Carrie been up to? A lot. She is one busy busy girl. She is constantly pulling things out of drawers, cupboards, making messes left and right (most of her messes seem to be food related, she loves her food!!)... but that's what kids are supposed to do, right?!? She is talking more and more and she has now started calling me "Mommy" instead of "Mama". She also talks a lot about Andrew. I can't always pick out all of the things she says, but I do hear her say Andrew often. She gets excited to pick up Andrew from school and will say, "Andrew... where are you?!?" Today when we pulled up to Andrew's school Andrew was standing by the front door. Carrie saw him and got so excited she kept saying, "Andrew! Andrew!" over and over again while pointing to him. I love to see that she loves her older brother so much.

Just like Carrie... Andrew has changed my name. He went from calling me "Mommy" to "Mom", and he likes to remind me of this often. He has actually been doing this for a couple of months now. Each day he seems to grow up a little bit more.

Andrew is obsessed with the Wii... and I really do mean obsessed. The first thing he wants to do in the morning is play games, and he could do it all day without getting tired of it. I felt like he was spending too much time playing games, so we decided to do something about that. Andrew now has a chart. On this chart he has certain things he has to do each day before he can play his games, such as: eat his meals (this is a problem with him... this has helped him to eat!!!), get dressed, make his bed, go to sleep by himself at night (also something he has needed to work on, and he has done great!!!). I am amazed at how well he has taken to this idea. He is proud of himself when he completes each task and can put a sticker on his chart. This has been good not only to limit his game playing time, but to give him a little bit of responsibility. He actually likes making the chart with me each day and thinking of things he has to do, and has even made himself a chart or two.

...Carrie...

2010-01-07T13:08:00.006-07:00

It was SNOW fun...

2010-01-02T18:18:00.008-07:00

and...

Our Christmas...

We were able to spend a night and have a party with each side of the family. We had the Allen family party the first night, and the Carpenter family party on Christmas Eve. Both parties were a lot of fun, it is always good to spend time with family!!! The kids loved playing with all of their cousins, making crafts, eating good food, playing games, singing songs, exchanging gifts, and having a great time!!

Our Christmas this year was different than any other we have had. Since we have had kids we have always lived in Logan, so we have always traveled and spent Christmas with our families. This year we were able to see both sides of the family a couple days before, so Christmas Eve night we decided to head home and spend Christmas day at home with just our little family, and it was one of the best days we have had in a long time!! We slept in, to find out that Santa had come during the night. We sure must have done something right, because Santa was good to us!! It was also fun this year because Andrew was so excited about everything!!! ~Two of my favorite Andrew Christmas moments: 1) Andrew opened up a book from his grandma and grandpa, said "Oh!! I looove books!!" Then gave that book a big hug and kiss. 2) Later Christmas day Andrew said, "I am sure glad I am a good boy, cause Santa knows just what I like!!!"~ We gathered around the tree and opened our presents, ate some yummy cinnamon rolls, then time to play!!! It was so fun to watch the kids play and explore their new toys. After some good play time we enjoyed a yummy Christmas dinner.

Experiences throughout the year, and especially near this Christmas time this year I am once again reminded of the many things I am blessed with. I am blessed with two beautiful children who love me unconditionally. I am blessed with a warm home, and food on the table. I am blessed with parents who have taught me the gospel and been good examples to me. I am blessed with the knowledge and testimony of the Atonement, the ability we have to better ourselves, and that we can be forgiven of our mistakes!! I am blessed to know that we can be with our families forever. I am blessed to know that I am a Child of God, that my Heavenly Father loves me, He knows me, and wants the best for me. Although times get tough, it helps to remind myself of these things. It helps to remember that I am never alone, although at times it may feel that way. I know that through Him all things are possible, and miracles can be brought forth.

... jingle all da way...

2009-12-21T16:58:00.012-07:00

Andrew's favorite Christmas song to sing!!

a little reminder...

2009-12-17T10:40:00.010-07:00

There are many times throughout each day that I get tired, frustrated, and often feel defeated as a mother. Last night was one of those times trying to get Andrew to bed. We had been trying for nearly two hours, he was nowhere close to being asleep, and it had already been a long day. I was laying next to him in my bed in hopes that he would settle down and go to sleep by me. While I was laying by him I was listening to my mp3 player trying to stay calm and keep myself entertained when the song, "It Won't Be Like This For Long" by Darius Rucker came on. This is a song from a father's point of view looking at his daughter through different stages of life, both good and bad... and is reminded that these moments don't last long, and you should hold on to them and enjoy them while they last. It couldn't have been better timing for me to hear this message. Although I was still frustrated that Andrew was not asleep, I was also thankful that I had the opportunity to lay by him and snuggle... the day will come too soon that I will miss being able to do that!! Just as I was thinking about how lucky I am to be able to have my kids, even through the hard times, Andrew did something that reminded me of how great being a mother truly is. My own little miracle you might say...

Andrew: "Mommy... do you know that I love you?"
Me: "Yes Andrew, I do."
Andrew: "but... do you know why I love you?...
I love you because you do so many good things for me."
Andrew then gave me a pat on the head, a kiss on the cheek and said, "Sweet dreams!"

I was shocked, and so very thankful!! How sweet of my boy to tell me that. It was exactly what I needed to hear, and he couldn't have said it any more perfectly. I know that I have a loving Father in Heaven who knows me, and knows my family. I know that we are blessed beyond measure... I see that each and every day. I know that when we get discouraged, He is always there to help lift us up. I know that he has blessed me with the responsibility to be a wife and a mother, and I know that I do not want to let Him or my family down!!! Even through the hard times... I know that this too shall pass, and that "it won't be like this for long!!!!" I hope and pray that I can remember what is really important, and not to take for granted the moments that I have with my family today, and cherish them for always.

peek-a-boo....

2009-12-17T10:28:00.012-07:00

Carrie has found a new place to hang out... a place that is quiet, just her size, and where she is well fed. There is no better place to be in our home than in the cupboard!!! I love it when all I can see of her are her feet sticking out the bottom, and hearing her say, "I see you!!!!"

can i borrow that?!?...

2009-12-15T13:53:00.010-07:00

I love talking to Andrew. I love his insight, I love his sense of humor, and I really just love the way he says things. I am often surprised at the things he knows, remembers, and his vocabulary... but sometimes I have to wonder where he is getting his information from!!!

...Today we were looking at our Christmas stockings, and he was telling me how we have 4 stockings, and who's each one was. He then told me that we have four stockings because right now we are "borrowing Carrie." I was confused, and I had to ask him what he meant by that. His explanation was that she is living with us now... but when she turns 10 she will be too big to fit into our kitchen (he means too tall... and I don't see that happening since she gets her height genes from her mom), and will then belong to someone else, and we will take her "home." It made me laugh, and kind of made me sad at the same time thinking of having to give my baby to someone else. I told Andrew that when Carrie turns 10 she will still live with us, because she is ours!! To that he said... "okay mom. we'll see."

we WISH you a...

2009-12-11T19:40:00.009-07:00

Moments like THIS...

There are certain times that just make being a mom oh so worth it. This picture represents one of those moments for me... my little girl just before bedtime: tired, calm, snug as a bug in a rug... she couldn't be any cuter if she tried. There is no doubt that night time (and the kids going to bed) is my favorite part of the day. Not only does it give mom (and dad) a much needed break, but it just feels good, it feels like home. Another great thing about this picture for me is that dog Carrie is cuddled up with. I had "Howard" growing up, and I slept many a night with him. I am not really sure why, but just recently Carrie has grown fond of this dog... and it brings back good, happy, and sweet memories.

ALWAYS thankful...

2009-12-02T18:10:00.013-07:00

I love this time of year!! It is always fun to spend time with family, as well as remember the things we are so very blessed with each and every day!! This year has been quite the ride for our little family, but we have been blessed with many miracles (more than we deserve) from our Heavenly Father, and from those around us. Although in a lot of ways it has not been an easy year, we are especially thankful for the opportunities we have had that have helped us to learn and to grow.

Thanksgiving Day:

The morning of Thanksgiving Kevin, Andrew and I participated in a 5K, a long with other members of my family. This was a first for me, but it was a lot of fun!! I took Andrew in a stroller ready to cruise, but not even half way he decided he wanted to walk. So he walked along with me, holding my hand, while I pushed the stroller with my other hand. This slowed us down quite a bit... Andrew felt absolutely no need to hurry. So we walked, at a rather slow pace, but eventually we did make it to the finish line... and that is what really matters, right?!? We were lucky that the weather was beautiful, and we would not be opposed to doing it again!

The whole Fun-Runnin' gang

Andrew and I nearing the finish line, empty stroller and all

YAY!!! We finished!!... celebrating with the turkey

Later in the day we all headed over to the grandparents' for a fabulous meal, games, and best of all, good company!! I don't get to see my grandparents too often, but it is always good to see them!!!!

With my Grandpa and Grandma Naylor

With my Grandma Hekking

i SEE the signs...

2009-11-20T20:41:00.006-07:00

In the last little while Carrie has really started to talk, picking up new words and phrases. I have been trying to also teach her some signs. I love this stage so much, every new word is exciting, and they pick up and learn new things so quickly!! So this is just a quick little clip to help me remember her doing a few of the signs she has learned!! She is a mess in the video, having just finished downing some delicious chocolate pudding... but that's my girl!!!

Colors of the Rainbow...

2009-11-13T14:41:00.013-07:00

It was just another ordinary day here in the Carpenter household, and I decided we needed to do something a little out of the ordinary. Nothing too wild or crazy, and it needed to be something quick, simple, and fun for the kids. I am not the most creative person, and the best that I could come up with that met all of the above criteria was finger paints!! It had been a long time since they had been used, and this was also Carrie's first experience finger painting!! Both Andrew and Carrie had a good time, and were good about sharing. Oh how I love it when an activity I plan with my kids actually turns out!!

trying to REMEMBER...

2009-11-11T13:53:00.014-07:00

Time flies too quickly, and I am reminded of this constantly when watching my kids!! There are phases they go through, and things that they do that I tell myself I will always remember, but have learned that if not written down, I don't!!! So this post is more for me to help in remembering some of the things they are doing these days.

Andrew Jon:

~Andrew is a very very busy guy. Within the last 6 months or so I have watched him mature and mellow (not completely of course, but it is noticeable!!) He went through a phase where he was extremely destructive, and he seems to have passed that. YAY!!!

~Since starting preschool he has turned into quite the polite little man... he is so much better about using his please and thank you words, and says them like he means it!! He also gets excited about things, and looks forward to things (such as preschool or story time). He can still be a shy guy, but is slowly growing out of that a little.
~He has started to pretend, about everything... being different people, animals, and making up different situations.
~He loves letters!!! He has always loved to listen to stories... but now he knows his letters and their sounds, he has started to read. He can sound out words and I often will find him writing... he will sounds out words and spell them on his own... not always correct, but the best that he can. Writing words is one of his favorite things to do. Today he was writing the word 'pancakes', and spelled it 'pancax'. Creative spelling, but it amazes me how he has picked up on this so quickly! Right now his favorite books to read (and that he can read on his own) are: "The Foot Book," and "Brown Bear, Brown Bear." I love to listen to him read, and to help him learn new words! He has also started to make up his own stories about the things he does or the things he sees around him. What a great imagination he has!!!
~He is addicted to games!!! Andrew absolutely loves to play games on the computer, and on the Wii. Kind of crazy, I never knew that my kids would be into that at such a young age. It is probably not the best thing, and will reflect negatively on my parenting skills... but nonetheless it is something that Andrew loves. His current favorite is to go to PBS.org where they have many games for young kids! He actually learns a lot from them.
~One morning I was getting the kids loaded and buckled into the car. It had been raining outside. Andrew said, "Mommy, did you know that Heavenly Father gives us rain? He loves us." Amazing the things our children can teach us!!!
~Today Andrew was playing and I overheard him say, "I gotta be strong!!! Oh wait... I AM strong, I am four!!!
~He is constantly talking to himself... he asks himself questions, tells himself what he is doing and why, he argues with himself, and he makes himself laugh!! I find his little conversations amusing, and love to hear him chit chatting in the next room knowing he is in there alone. Makes me smile every time.
~I tell Andrew I love him, often. Each and every time he will respond, "I love you too, Mommy." Each and every day there are times that Andrew will come up to me and say, "Guess what Mommy"... I say, "what?!?", and he says, "I love you." I know that this little tradition won't last forever, so I will cherish it while it lasts!!!

Carrie Anne:

~Just like her older brother, Carrie is a very busy girl!! She doesn't sit still for long, and is always on the go. She is a happy and content girl, just busy. I never thought I would see the day that I wasn't constantly chasing or getting after Andrew... Carrie has now filled that spot. When I am loading the dishwasher it is now Carrie that is there unloading. When I am trying to put the fold the laundry or put it away it is now Carrie unfolding or pulling things out of the drawers. As frustrating as that can be... I try to remember that these things are good!!! She is learning where things go... and she is learning to explore the world around her.
~She is a mover and a groover!! I love to watch her dance, she gets a little wild and crazy. She loves to bob her head back and forth... but she does not do just little bobs, she does very large bobs. It is hilarious to watch, and her wild hair goes everywhere, she flails her arms... it is quite fantastic!!
~Carrie also loves books... and she now loves to color!! I have to be so careful, because she will find crayons, go to the bookshelf, and color her books. Any book is a coloring book to Carrie.
~Last Christmas Carrie was given a doll. Within the last couple of weeks she has finally taken a liking to that doll, and carts it around with her. It also sleeps right by her when she goes to bed. She reads stories to the doll, she buckles her doll into the highchair to feed it, she puts the doll to sleep... oh how I love having a little girl!!
~Carrie's vocabulary is growing. What probably sounds like mumbling to the rest of the world is words to me. I cannot understand everything she says, but there are more and more words and phrases that she speaks.
~The other night before Carrie went to bed she wanted a snack. I was sitting at the kitchen table with her when she folded her arms, bowed her head and started to say a prayer. I couldn't understand what she was saying... but then I asked her if she would like some help, and she nodded. So I prompted her, and she was able to say most of the things I said, and ended with a good 'Amen'. She then gave several prayers just on her own, but ended each time with Amen.
~Last night Kevin was on the floor playing trains with the kids. Carrie kept going over to Kevin and rubbing his head. She would then cock her head and look at him close, face to face, then give him a big kiss right on the lips. She did this more than once. I just love watching the kids with Kevin... there is no doubt that these kids love their Daddy!!!!
~Carrie can count to three. I love her cute little voice when she talks. When she counts she says, "One... Two... THREEEEEE!!!" and holds out the three. It is so so cute.
~Of course I don't like to see Carrie get hurt... I do love however, that when she does get hurt, or if she is sad, that she will run and find me. She lets me hold, hug, and squeeze her. She doesn't hold still for long, so when she does I take advantage of it and hold her as long as she will let me. I love when she comes up to me and says "hugs" and gives me a big squeeze, or comes to me with her lips ready for a kiss.
~Carrie has always been a good eater... willing to try just about anything, and likes almost everything. She wants to eat everything, and usually eats a lot!!! When she eats or takes little bites she will often say, "Mmmmm"... I hear her say this all throughout the day, but I love it. Good to see her eating (especially since her older brother has always been picky and quite frankly opposed to eating), but also good to know that she is enjoying her food.

PICTURE TIME...

2009-11-07T13:34:00.009-07:00

We took our kids in to get their pictures taken... not an easy task to accomplish!! Andrew was more goofy than I had anticipated, and Carrie was scared. The combination of the two made it difficult, but we are happy with what we were able to get!! I know, I know, I have two of the cutest kids around... you don't have to remind me!!!

Andrew Jon~4 Years Old

Carrie Anne~21 Months

some of the many shots that were taken...

...and just because these were two of my favorite shots of the day...
Daddy consoling his little girl

pretty brown-eyed girl...

2009-11-06T11:38:00.007-07:00

Andrew goes to preschool three days a week. While he is away, Carrie and I get to play... just the two of us. It is pure bliss, and I love this one on one time that I get to spend with her. She is growing up too quickly, but I love watching her learn new things!! She is such an amazingly happy and fun-loving girl. She is always doing things that make me laugh, and I love that she also laughs at herself!! There is so much personality packed into her small body!!

CARVING...

2009-11-06T11:19:00.006-07:00

HaLLoWeeN PaRaDe...

2009-10-30T13:26:00.011-06:00

The above picture is of Andrew with his preschool class getting ready to put on a parade. Andrew front and center, the leader of this parade, looking oh so calm, innocent, and happy to be there, right?? Our Andrew can be easily overwhelmed, and we experienced a little bit of this today. Andrew's teacher, Miss Suzanne, turned on a Halloween song and the parade started. Andrew was in the front leading his class around the room, and it was oh so exciting!!! Then... the song reaches a certain point and Miss Suzanne tells the children they are now ghosts, and to walk like a ghost. Uh-oh... this was more than Andrew could handle, and at that point he melted to the ground, throwing his own version of a fit. The teacher tried to get him to stand up and continue walking (he is the leader remember, so all the other kids are lined up behind him waiting for him to move!!) Well, that didn't work, so she pulled him to the side where he sat and watched the other kids do a parade, rather sulkily, and sing songs. He refused to participate. We actually captured this little charade on video... oh the memories. Andrew has been talking about this Halloween parade with great anticipation for WEEKS... then when it finally arrives he sits on the sidelines. Oh well, I am still glad I could be there, and I still love my little boy. Just a reminder to me that we are each unique, and we come to this world with our own personalities. There is always next year... and maybe then we can make it all the way around the parade circle. Something to look forward too!!!

What in the Ward?!?...

2009-10-30T13:19:00.008-06:00

The youth in our ward put together a Halloween carnival for the kids. We took Andrew and Carrie, and they both had a great time playing games, winning prizes, dressing up in their costumes, going trick-or-treating, and of course eating candy!!

Pumpkin Party!!...

2009-10-27T00:20:00.012-06:00

This last weekend my mom, my sister Jen and her daughter Emma came up to Logan for the weekend. It is always fun when family gets together, and we love having visitors!! My sister Diana also lives in Logan so we spent time with her and her husband as well. We had lots of yummy food, many laughs, and lots of fun!! On Saturday, as is tradition, we went to the annual Pumpkin Walk in North Logan. It was a little wet, but not too cold (sometimes it is freezing!!). I am excited for the upcoming holiday season and the family times associated with them!!

head to the hills...

2009-09-26T20:57:00.010-06:00

We took advantage of the good weather today and spent some time up Logan Canyon. We haven't spent nearly as much time there as we have in previous years, and wanted to be sure to get some time in before the weather turns too cold!! We took up some good 'ole KFC and had a picnic, and then went for a walk on the river trail we love so much. The weather really was perfect... the leaves are starting to change which is always a sight to see. I really do love the fall, such a beautiful season, and I love the colors of fall!! It was nice to get out, and to spend some time as a family. It was probably one of the most relaxing and purely enjoyable outings we have had in quite awhile. I have absolutely loved this day!!!This is our little woodpecker friend... he often comes to visit the tree outside our back door or the fence. Andrew watched this little bird for quite awhile. How amazing nature is, and how blessed we are to be able to enjoy it so freely!!

PHEW!!....

2009-09-22T18:58:00.005-06:00

Tonight Kevin took the training wheels off of Andrew's bike. Andrew was very nervous about this, but gave it a good try. This video is just a short clip of Andrew's efforts (with Daddy helping out). He much prefers riding his bike with the training wheels ON, but was good that he was willing to at least try it out. It was also fun because little did we know, if you ride your bike out in the front in the parking lot, it attracts children!! Within just a few minutes there were several other kids out riding their bikes as well. Andrew now has many little friends!! So fun!

a QUACK QUACK here, and a QUACK QUACK there...

2009-09-20T18:45:00.009-06:00

Yesterday we needed to get out of the house, and decided to take the kids to feed the ducks. The weather lately has been absolutely perfect, and we have been able to spend more time doing fun things outside!! It was fun to watch the kids play, run around, feed the ducks, and get their toes wet. I cannot express enough how much I LOVE these people!!!!

WHAT a WEEK...

2009-09-19T15:17:00.021-06:00

Last weekend they had a 'Family Night' at USU for students and their families. We decided to take the kids and see what it was like. They had all types of activities for the kids to do, crafts to make, games to play, prizes to win, food to eat!!! It was very fun for all of us, and we are glad we went!! This is only the second year they have done this, and we wish we were going to be around next year to go again!!

The only picture we really took while we were there... Andrew wearing a big helmet, watching the screen, and learning to fly an airplane!! He is totally in his element right here, and absolutely loved this!!!

Saturday morning I went with my sister (and her daughter Emma) and took the kids to a lake that they have in Daybreak. Unfortunately it turned out to be more of a stressful little outing than planned!! Shortly after being there Andrew walked out into the water... I was watching him closely, but little did either of us know that a little ways into the water there is quite a large drop off, and the water gets fairly deep. Andrew walked off of this, not knowing how to swim, couldn't get out. I had gone, not dressed at all for swimming, not planning on getting wet, but ran out into the water to get him. I know it scared him because he kept telling me he "couldn't breathe" under there!!! What a scary moment, and it happened so quickly!!! I share this not necessarily because it is a moment I wish to remember and want everyone to know, although I do hope I can prevent this from happening again in the future... but it was a moment that instantly made me realize how blessed I truly am. Unfortunately this was not the only incident that happened with my Andrew, and the memory of this day will stick with me for a long time to come. This is not the first time I have seen Andrew in a situation that he could have been seriously injured... or worse. I am so thankful that we have Andrew with us, and that he has been watched over and protected. Throughout the week there have been times that I have gotten frustrated with Andrew, then this experience has come to my mind, and my outlook on everything instantly changes. Although there are hard times when it comes to being a mom, I wouldn't trade it for anything in the world... I love my family more than anything!!!! I am amazed at the miracles we are continuously blessed with, big and small!!!

That being said... there were some fun moments!!! Here is one with Andrew and Emma...

Carrie absolutely LOVES water, and she couldn't have been any happier. She kept busy playing with her shadow, running in and out of the water, and playing in the sand!!! She was completely covered in sand by the time we left.

Later that day we had our annual girls night out. We do this each year with the girls on my side of the family (my mom, my two sisters, my sister in law... and this year my sisters friend also came!!). It is always a good time to get together with the girls!! This year we learned to make wheat bread. I learned a lot, and had fun eating the bread and my mom's cinnamon rolls!! Now I just need a wheat grinder, and some wheat so that I can make my own!!!

While us girls were busy bread making the kids were busy playing. They picked some strawberries, and this is what we found. The great thing is that they did this on their own, no coaching from parents!! I love these kids, and my kids sure do love their cousins!!!!

We recently had some family pictures taken...

One day I asked Andrew to draw a picture of our family to keep him busy for awhile. He was excited about it, and did a fantastic job!! From left to right: Andrew, Carrie, Mommy, and Daddy. I then wanted him to write our names. So he wrote his name, and I showed him how to write Carrie's name. The next morning he woke up early and his picture was still on the table so he decided to work on it some more. He attempted to write Mommy... and wrote "Dady" on his own. I had not shown him how to spell it, he sounded it out and figured out the spelling on his own. Although not exactly correct, very close!!! I was very impressed!!! He loves letters, their sounds, and is really starting to put it all together. It is so much fun to be a part of this learning process with him!

Last but not least... and just for fun because she is so darn cute!!! Carrie sporting her Aunt Diana's 3D glasses!!!

Look Mommy...

2009-09-09T13:46:00.008-06:00

"LOOK at the cool HAT I made!!!!"

ScRuB-a-DuB...

2009-09-07T21:10:00.006-06:00

To simplify and quicken the process my kids often take a bath together. The other night was one of these occasions. I look up to see Carrie busily pretending to wash Andrew's hair, while Andrew is busy playing with a toy seeming oblivious. They continue doing this for a few minutes, then Andrew says, "Mommy!!! Carrie says that I STINK!!!" Kevin heard him say it as well, and we both laughed. No wonder Carrie was so intent on washing him!!! It is good to have kids around... not only do they keep us on our toes, but they keep us laughing!

i LOVE to see the Temple...

2009-08-30T22:18:00.009-06:00

What a great Sunday!! Today Carrie went to her Nursery class for the first time, and she did really well!! I stayed with her for a little while for her to get settled, then I snuck out. Unfortunately I am not a very good sneaker outer, because she saw me. When she saw me leave she gave out a huge scream and started to cry. Luckily she has great Nursery leaders. I watched through the window as one of the leaders rushed over to pick her up, and she immediately stopped crying. I checked on her a little while later and the same Nursery leader was hauling her around, but no tears. When I went to pick her up after our meetings she was sitting at a table with other kids playing with play dough as happy as could be. They said she did very well. Hurray!!! I must admit as I sat through Sunday School and Relief Society I felt like something was missing, and in fact I will miss having her with me... but I am glad that she did so well today. Hopefully that will continue!!!

After church today we decided to take the kids to see the Temple. We are so lucky to live so close to the Temple, literally a few minute drive from our home, we could walk there easily. We walked around the grounds, looked up to see how tall it is, looked at the beautiful flowers... We didn't stay long, but I want my kids to know what the Temple is. We were lucky enough to go this spring as a family to the Draper Temple open house. Andrew remembered that, and wanted to go inside the Logan Utah Temple as we had done. I explained briefly why we were not able to do that. I hope for my kids to someday be able to go inside the Temple, that they may be sealed for eternity to their future spouses and families. I am so very thankful for the many blessings the Temple provides.

One of my FaVoRiTe things...

2009-08-26T13:31:00.005-06:00

First Day of PREschool...

2009-08-21T21:18:00.011-06:00

After we moved to Logan I had a hard time getting a hold of preschools and finding one that wasn't full, or that wasn't crazy expensive. I kind of got discouraged and gave up. Although when I would think about it I would get a knot in my stomach, I just felt that Andrew would really benefit from going to preschool, and that it is something that he is more than ready for, and that he needs!!! So one Sunday night, a couple of weeks ago, I prayed and decided that the next day I would pull out the phone book again and call all the preschools I could find in Logan. So in the morning I pulled out the phone book, and started my calls. The first place I called I asked if they had any openings, and they answered, "Yes"... I was surprised. So then I asked how much it would be. When she told me I was amazed... it was in the price range we had been hoping for, and it would be 3 days a week. Even though I had really hoped to find something, I didn't expect it to be that easy, I had made several phone calls before with no success!! It was perfect, and I have no doubt it was an answer to prayer.

Today was Andrew's first day, and boy was it a great day!!! I know every day is a great day in the life of a Mommy... but today was especially good. Andrew doesn't like to eat... but I told him he needed to eat all of his cheerios so he wouldn't get hungry at preschool. He ate every last bite and drank all of his milk, then got himself dressed. I asked him if he would like to take his backpack with him to school, and he said "I can take it with me? I can??" I tell you... SO excited!!! We drove to the preschool and I took him inside. He was a little timid, but happy. When I walked out to the car I looked up and saw him in the window watching me... at first I couldn't tell what his expression was, and I was worried that he was sad. NOPE... he had the biggest smile on his face and was waving to me and Carrie. What a cute boy I have!!! When I went to pick him up he was so excited to see me and to tell me about his teacher and his time at preschool!! As we walked to the car I told him that he would get to go again in a few days. He responded, "I do?"

I am so excited for Andrew to be able to get out of the house, learn new things, interact with other kids, and have something to look forward to each week. I am also looking forward to the one-on-one time I will get with Carrie during this time. I love both of my kids, and I love watching them grow, learn, and to experience new things!!! I am so thankful that we have been given this opportunity, and am amazed at the blessings we receive as a family.

the LAKE of the BEARS...

2009-08-20T13:22:00.010-06:00

Earlier this week we were able to spend some time at Bear Lake. I have wanted to go all summer, but with Kevin being so busy with school and work it just had not happened. When I told Andrew where we were going he was so excited (and I'm not gonna lie... so was I)!! Kevin was able to take the day off of work, and it was nice to have the whole day with him and my little family. My sister Diana also came, and we had so much fun!! When we first got there I was worried that it was too cool... but it soon warmed up. The kids enjoyed playing in the sand, splashing in the water, running around, and chasing the seagulls. Kevin took Andrew out into the lake to swim... Andrew especially loves to get rides on Kevin's back. It was a perfect day, and was very relaxing!! I loved being with my family and watching them enjoy themselves and have the freedom to run and play.

First you take the peanuts,

2009-08-13T11:38:00.010-06:00

And you crunch 'em, You crunch 'em....

Our Andrew has never been a big eater, as much a I wish he was, and as hard as I have tried to teach him to be.... he just isn't. I must admit because of this, he is often spoiled and catered to... (he doesn't get everything he wants... if that were the case he would have chocolate chip cookies and milk 3 meals a day). This morning when I asked him what he wanted for breakfast he said he wanted a peanut butter sandwich!!! Yay!!! His answer is usually, "I don't want to eat anything!!" (and once he decides he doesn't want to eat, it is almost impossible to get him to eat!! May I say stubborn?!? Not sure where he gets that...) ...and then we go through the process of me trying to talk him into eating something. He chose a peanut butter sandwich, something to eat that is actually wholesome and will fill him up, I can do that!! So I made both him and Carrie a peanut butter sandwich, and they enjoyed them together.

What are they both looking at?? Some good early morning PBS!!!

... and one with Carrie saying, "teeeeese!!" while giving a great big cheesy smile!

... i get it...

2009-08-10T11:24:00.004-06:00

Andrew loves his little sister... he especially loves to PESTER his little sister. This morning he was busy doing just that, and I got after him and told him that he needed to be nice. His response was, "OH, instead of being NAUGHTY?!?" Do you think he could finally be catching on??

Happy Happy Birthday Grandma Dear!!!

2009-08-10T11:05:00.010-06:00

This weekend I took the kids and we spent the weekend at my parents house. On Saturday we had a birthday for my Grandma Hekking, and my parents and all of my siblings were there. I love it when my family gets together, they are my favorite people in the whole world!! It is fun to see all the kids play together, and to catch up with everyone.

Grandma Hekking with all of her great grandkids on our side of the family

The kids and I traveled home Sunday afternoon. After a long hot drive (we don't have air conditioning in our car) we were glad to be home in Logan where it was nice and cool. Andrew put his pillow on the couch to relax... Carrie thought that was a great idea and climbed up right next to him.

Pass the CHEEESE... please...

2009-08-06T16:06:00.008-06:00

Our little Carrie Anne is full of life, has so much energy, but is also very easy going. She loves to laugh, and we love to laugh with her!! She also loves to give lots of hugs and kisses, which we are always willing to receive!! She loves her older brother.... she follows him around everywhere imitating him and wanting to do whatever it is he is doing. One of my favorite things as of late is when I lay her down to change her diaper she will plug her nose and say "Stinky!!"... always makes me laugh. Amazing how even at a young age kids have so much personality!!! I love her to pieces... and I especially love being greeted with her cheesy squinty-eyed smiles each morning!!!

... how we spent our Pioneer Day...

2009-08-03T19:05:00.011-06:00

We had a very fun 24th of July weekend. My sister and her daughter Emma came up to Logan for the weekend, my other sister lives in Logan, so we all spent the weekend together. The kids played and played, we ate good food, did some fireworks... all in all in was a good time, I loved it!!! The kids spent hours playing in the water. It was so much fun to watch them, and even better it wore them all out and they slept great that night!!!