Hamblin Family

First Bath, Snow and Newborn Photos

2012-01-30T07:42:00.000-08:00

It's kind of a tradition for my Mom to give my babies their first bath. I'm always there and wanting to help, but I usually just end up taking the pictures. I like that this tradition kind of formed on its own. I think it's something my kids will enjoy reading about, and seeing in their photos when they're older. Harli did pretty good until the time came to take off her diaper. One thing is universal with all babies....they do not like being cold:) Ignore the outfit we have Harli in. Teancum picked it out (if you can't tell, it says, "My 1st Halloween). We bought it for Austyn since she was born at the end of Sept. Teancum liked that it was a Halloween outfit.

Stretching from being woke up.

Uh Oh. The diaper's coming off.

Let the screaming begin

That's better

I know my Mom's eyes are closed, but I still love this picture, so I had to post it.

This last week, we finally had our first real snow. It has snowed here, but not very much and it usually melts by the end of the day. Daddy had to go out and shovel the snow, so naturally the kids wanted to go with him. I decided to test out my new camera and snap some photos from inside our warm house:) I'm such a wuss when it comes to the cold.

Check out Myli's hair coming out from her hood. This girl is always a mess no matter what I do. I love it.

I think Teancum looks funny with his hood velcroed (sp?) like that. I did it though, so I don't know why I'm teasing him:)

One day my Mom bought Valentine's cookies for all the kids to decorate.

We had Austyn eat her cookie plain. I wasn't about to let her stain her clothes. Yes, 5 kids later I'm still crazy about them keeping their clothes clean.

I'm so glad we had Myli shower first. In case you didn't notice, she has a little frosting in her hair.

My good friend Jenny offered to take newborn photos of Harli. Naturally I said, "Sure!" She did such a great job, and I love how they turned out. The first one is my favorite. I love her eyes in it. The rest are adorable as well. Thanks again Jenny. You're awesome!

Myli is not wearing makeup in the above photo, however, she is wearing lip gloss. She got it for Christmas. I think she looks like she's wearing makeup, so I wanted to clarify.

She's Here

2012-01-14T13:01:00.001-08:00

Well she's here, and healthy and absolutely perfect in every way. It's taken me a while to post because I got a new camera, and the photo sizes are huge and take forever to download. I'm not complaining. It will just take some getting used to. Isn't my husband so awesome for buying me this camera. It's a Canon T3i. It was hard for me to break down and let him get it for me because they are definitely not cheap, but he made a good point. I scrapbook for all of my kids and already have 10+ albums between the first four kids. This camera will last me probably 15 years, so I will definitely make good use of my investment. I always have blurry photos because I just have a cheap point and shoot, so it will be nice to finally have nice photos in the kids albums. I thought that was good reasoning, and made it easier to spend the money if I'm going to have it that long. He gave it to me as an early birthday present, and baby present. I thought that was sweet of him.

Anyways, back to the delivery. I went in Thursday morning (Jan. 5th) at 8am to be induced. I wasn't really induced, but I don't know what else to call it. At 9:30am they broke my water. They wouldn't let me walk around because the baby was only at a -3 station, and they were afraid the cord would slip out. At 11:30 I was at a 5 and at 12:30 I was at 6 and the baby had moved down to a -2 station so they finally let me get up. I was glad because it's super annoying to have to stay in bed. Especially since I fell down the stairs and hurt my tail bone. Laying down on one side in a hospital bed is not comfortable. The contractions weren't too bad, but they are almost fun when you're up walking around. It's exciting to feel them and see how close together they are etc. Laying in a bed, bored out of your mind, their just annoying. Especially because every time I had a contraction, I had to pee. Anyways, again, back to the story. Once I was at a 6 I got up and went to the bathroom. Up to that point, my contractions had been about 10-15 minutes apart. Once I got out of the bathroom, they had a birthing ball for me to bounce on. Once I got on, my contractions were 4 minutes apart for about 4 contractions. Then, they went to 3 minutes apart for 3-4 more contractions, and then I needed to stand up because my tail bone was hurting. Once I stood up, they were two minutes apart, and I told Travis they probably should call my Dr. Then Travis says, "They're not gonna just call your Dr. because you say so. They have to check you first." Then I thought, Oh ya. Right then my nurse walked in, and I told her she should probably check me because they were getting close and starting to hurt. She checked me and I was at a 7. I told her she should probably call my Dr., but she just stayed in the room talking to my other nurse. She could see that they were 2 minutes apart and getting hard because I breathe really deeply, close my eyes, and don't move when I'm having one. She was getting ready to go call my Dr. when the Resident walked in. It had been about 5-7 minutes since the nurse checked me. She checked me and I was at an 8 and 0 station, so she went to call my Dr. When she left the room, I looked at Travis and told him I was gonna be ready to push in a couple more contractions. Sure enough, the Resident walked back into the room after calling my Dr. and I said I was pushing. There was no screaming this time. I remembered that I had to hold my breath. When you hold your breath, you can't scream. I was a little nervous at first because here I was pushing, and no one was at the foot of my bed ready to deliver a baby. The Resident was getting her gown and gloves on, and the nurses were running around getting everything ready. I was a few pushes away from a baby before they had me in the stirrups and down at the foot of my bed. This time was different than Austyn because I was able to stop pushing when they told me to. I had to breathe really quickly, and I felt like I was hyperventilating, but I was able to do it. I pushed for about 5 minutes total and she was here. Little Harli weighed 7lbs. 2oz. and was 20 1/4 inches long. My biggest baby so far. I only had a 1st degree tear which is nothing compared to my other children. It was by far my best pregnancy and delivery. I had about 23 minutes of active labor, and the whole thing start to finish was only 4 1/2 hours. I was so glad I didn't have to get pitocin. I probably prefer this way since I go so fast. I wouldn't have known I was in active labor til I was at a 7, so it would've been a close call like Austyn if I hadn't already been at the hospital.

Healing is taking a while only because of my tail bone. If I hadn't fallen down the stairs, I would be feeling incredible. I can't even feel my stitches, and Harli is sleeping great. She was adjusted from night to day after about 5 days. That is the fastest any of my kids have adjusted. It's usually closer to 3-4 weeks before they're only getting up twice in the middle of the night. She nursed well right off the bat too. She's been a dream baby. However, since I can't sit, bend over, lay down or do anything without my tail bone hurting, I'm not loving life as much as I would be. I dislocated the joint and might have to get a bone scan to look for a fracture. I'm still waiting to hear from my Dr. what she would recommend. My Mom rescheduled her flight to stay an extra week which I am so grateful for. I don't know what I would do without her. She's awesome. The kids love Harli, and little Austyn is fascinated with her. They've all done really well to stay away from her when she's in her swing or lying on the couch. I'm actually impressed. I had to keep Teancum from mauling Austyn, so I thought it would be the same with Austyn and the new baby, but she's been great. They love her so much, and told Grandma she couldn't take her home with her. Thanks to everyone for your texts, gifts, dinner, etc. I don't know what I would do without you. I also need to thank my friend Jen for watching my kids while I was having the baby. You're awesome!

Now here are the pictures.

This picture was taken a couple hours after they admitted me. Just waiting for my contractions to get harder, and the baby to move down, so I can get out of bed.

Here she is. Isn't she beautiful?

Proud Daddy. Even if he doesn't look like it. I gotta get this guy to smile more for pictures.

Myli's first time holding Harli

LeiLani's turn. I think this picture is so precious.

Teancum was nervous to hold her. I asked if he wanted to and he said no. Then I said, "Do you wanna hold her if I help you?" and he said, "Yes."

Austyn was so cute. She wanted to poke her at first, but once I told her to be soft, she did very well.

Here's Harli in her first outfit leaving the hospital.

Sleeping in her swing at home.

I unwrapped her and snapped a photo of her with her eyes open. She started crying shortly after cause she was cold.

The rest are random photos I took of the kids while I was trying out my new camera.

I love it when she sticks her bottom teeth out when she smiles.

This is her classic "Cheese!" smile.

These two are so cute together. Teancum is constantly making her laugh. I love it.

LeiLani after school one day.

Myli being Myli. She is such a poser. Every time the camera is out, she starts posing. It cracks me up.

Baby Update..........Again

2012-01-04T06:11:00.000-08:00

Yes, I'm still pregnant. I know, I shouldn't be complaining. I'm not due for two more days. I know that I never go too early. However, I have now tied the longest I've gone. My water broke three days before I was due with LeiLani and I had her 24 hours later, so I always say she was two days early. Well, I'm two days until my due date, and I'm really anxious for a baby. I was very comfortable until I took a fall down the stairs four days ago. I hurt my tail bone really bad, and can't really sit or bend, so now I've been miserable the last few days. I really am grateful though. I fell and hit my back and tail bone and slid down the stairs. I was holding Austyn, so that was really the best way to fall. I was able to still hold onto her all the way down, and not hit my belly ever, so it really was a blessing. If you have to fall, that's the way to go:)

Anyways, back to the update. I'm due Friday, and my Mom is only here til the following Friday, so I decided to be induced on my due date, so I can have her here a whole week. Well, my Dr. couldn't do it Friday because she's busy, so she's inducing me tomorrow morning at 8am. For those of you who know me, you know I'm not a fan of induction. I don't like pitocin, and I don't like being in the hospital, sitting in a bed, waiting for active labor to start. Plus, it was so exciting to feel myself go into labor with Austyn, and she's the only child I've been able to do that with. I was really looking forward to having that again, so I could compare the differences, if any. Well, luckily my Dr. is awesome, so she's just gonna break my water, and let me do it on my own after that. She'll even let me walk around and do my own thing, so I don't have to sit in bed all day, hooked up to the monitors. All in all it will be great I'm sure, and I'm just glad the baby is healthy and happy all snuggled up in my belly. It's like 20 degrees here, so I'm sure she's staying in there to keep warm:) Yesterday at my appt. I was at a good 3 (whatever that means), and 80% efaced. She stripped my membranes again, but I didn't really feel anything the rest of the day. I've resigned myself to the fact that I will have to be induced, so I will spend today doing laundry, and filling in my substitute on what's on the agenda for Primary. Other than that, it will be pretty low key. Thanks for listening to me complain. I really should be grateful, I know. It's a blessing to go full term, and I do like that. I just wish I could hold out a little longer and go on my own. Oh well, beggars can't be choosers:) Hope everyone had a wonderful Christmas and New Years.

Christmas, Myli's Birthday & Baby Update

2011-12-29T12:37:00.000-08:00

Well December is always a busy and eventful month. We had our ward Christmas party, and Santa came. The girls were so excited, but you weren't going to get Teancum anywhere near the big guy. Even if you did tell him he would get a candy cane. I knew Austyn would be upset, but I had to have the classic crying picture for her scrapbook.

Don't you love how her pants are unbuttoned? No matter how hard I try, this girl will not button and zip up her pants after she goes to the bathroom. I really need to do a better inspection when we're in public:)

I love the LeiLani is holding his hand. So sweet.

Not happy at all. Mean Mommy.

Christmas morning was exciting this year. Travis had to work the night shift of Christmas Eve which meant a long night for me. Santa brought the kids a trampoline this year, but couldn't set it up until after they were in bed. Well, Santa was working, so the task was up to Mrs. Clause. Well, after a 2 hour blond moment, and five hours total, the trampoline was put together. However, there was still wrapping of the box and stocking stuffers that needed to be done, so finally, at 4am, Mrs. Clause was able to fall asleep.

Christmas morning came bright and early considering the late night. Travis pulled into the garage at 7am, and we woke up all the kids for presents. There wasn't a lot, but luckily they're young enough to not know the difference:) Thanks to the grandparents, they weren't completely deprived. It's nice when the kids get older watching their excitement. They really get what's going on finally, and it's so fun to see their faces. Austyn was also so cute. She had a hard time with the presents, but there weren't a lot for her, so it was a good thing it took her awhile to open them. It kept her occupied while the other ones opened theirs.

After presents, we had the traditional waffles and fancy syrup breakfast, and then we needed to rush upstairs to get ready for church. The primary sang two songs in Sacrament meeting, so Travis came with me to help with the younger kids. Poor guy could barely keep his eyes open.

After church we came home, Travis went to bed, and I put together christmas presents and cleaned up. We did Myli's birthday party after dinner and had ice cream after presents. All in all it was a busy but fun day. I slept really good that night.

The day after Christmas, Travis had to work a 13 hour shift, so I took down Christmas decorations. Once that was done, I was bored out of my mind. I have nothing to do except for the day to day tasks, and I'm going crazy.

I've got everything done, and I'm waiting until I go to into labor to clean my house one last time, so it's spick and span when I bring her home. I'm dilated to a 3 and 70% efaced. She stripped my membranes on Tuesday. It never puts me into labor, but I always hope it helps me progress a little further as far as dilation and efacement goes. I'm hoping she'll wait atleast until Saturday before making her grand entrance. My poor mother's dad died and the funeral is on Friday, so she can't make it here until Saturday. She's been in the delivery room with all of my children, and I know it would mean a lot to her and I to keep that tradition going. Plus, there's nothing like the birth of a new baby to lift your spirits.

We hope everyone had a wonderful Christmas, and felt the Savior's love. What a special thing to have Christmas on Sunday where we can attend church, and focus a little more on the Savior that day.

Stockings. Teancum and LeiLani both said that was their favorite present. I love that they're easy to please. Myli's favorite, was her Kitty Nana gave her for her birthday that night. I guess it was a waste of time and money getting the trampoline:)

I love this beautiful little girl.

Austyn riding her little grocery toy, talking on her cell phone. Typical girl:)

The kids had just opened the box for their trampoline so they're looking outside for it. Nope, not there.

It's not upstairs either.

They finally found it in the basement.

You can kind of tell in the above picture that the trampoline was a little too tall for the ceiling, so I had to move the square panels over to make it fit. We're white trash, but we like it:)

Birthday time.

Princess hut

The favorite gift. She kept saying, "Mom! I'll take good care of it. I promise!" Funny girl. Little does she know, it's not real, and pretty much takes care of itself.

He Matched!!!!

2011-12-19T12:54:00.001-08:00

I'm a few days late making this post, but it definitely needs to be documented. On Thursday December 15, 2011 Travis matched in Dermatology here in Michigan. It's finally official and we couldn't be more thrilled to be staying here. I really didn't wanna move again, and Travis really likes the program here. We just feel so blessed that everything has worked out. Our really good friends, the Skinners matched as well in Virginia, and it has just made the whole experience that much sweeter knowing we will be continuing this journey along with them. Travis and Ryan have attended conferences together all throughout medical school, and they call and talk constantly about the whole process and what the other is doing etc. We're so excited. Congratulations Travis and Ryan. You both definitely earned it.

LeiLani's Christmas Holiday Concert

2011-12-13T10:40:00.001-08:00

Last night was LeiLani's holiday concert at school. They asked that the kids be dropped off at 6:30pm for the 7pm concert. I thought that would be plenty early for us to get there as well and get a seat. Boy was I wrong. We did find a seat near the back, but barely. Travis had to work, so it was just me and the kids. I only needed three seats because I could hold Austyn on my lap. Two probably would've worked because they were movie theater type seats that fold up, and it was hard for Teancum and Myli to keep theirs down. I had to finally put my purse and all the coats on Teancum's. By the end they were sharing the same seat sitting on top of everything so they could see. Sometimes I wonder what is going through people's minds when they see me 8 1/2 months pregnant with four little ones and all the crap I have to carry when it's cold outside. I'm sure it's amusing.

LeiLani did so good in her concert. It's funny. Sometimes I feel like she's so grown up, but last night, she looked so little up there on stage singing her songs. I kind of liked that feeling that she's still little.

Sorry about the pictures. I had to zoom in all the way, so they're blurry. I have a terrible point and shoot camera. I took video for Travis. Half the time though you can only see her eyes and nose because the kid in front is blocking her. Then, to top it all off, my camera didn't record her second song. Oh well. I told her she would have to perform it live with actions and everything for Daddy when she got home from school today.

Walking on stage. She's the one in the black and green dress by the way.

Looking for me in the audience. She never found me.

Still waiting for the other kindergarten class to come on stage and join them.

Here's the video. You don't have to watch. This is mostly for me and my memories:)

Myli's Birthday Party

2011-12-13T10:28:00.001-08:00

We celebrated Myli's birthday early this year. She's never had a friend party, so we decided to throw her one at the beginning of the month before the chaos of Christmas season hit. There were 19 kids total in our house. Luckily we have the basement since it's too cold to go outside. All in all I think the kids had a great time, and Myli definitely felt special.

We started the birthday with cupcakes, hot cocoa and presents. Myli requested pink cupcakes with pink frosting (yuck). As most of you know I'm a chocolate girl myself. I have no idea where these girlie girls come from, but I love them. As you can see from the pictures below, seating was limited, so I made everyone, but the birthday girl sit on the floor so we weren't fighting over chairs.

Once the she finished opening her presents, we had bags of popcorn for all the little ones to take into the living room to watch the Polar Express. We had blankets down to control the mess somewhat, and everyone was having a great time until the popcorn was all gone. Then, one by one they started to get bored. It was really only a few of them, and I thought they all did good.

After the movie, Travis took all the kids in the basement and played dodge ball with them until the parents came. I was busy trying to put Christmas goody bags together for the families to take home when they picked up their kids. Our ward boundaries are so large, it would take me an entire Saturday to drive around delivering goodies.

Enjoy the pictures.

Birthday Girl! Even though she really doesn't turn 4 until Christmas Day:)

Can you say spoiled?

All the kids minus LeiLani and Anna (they wouldn't fit in the picture so they're off to the side). Austyn is also missing because she was taking a nap.
All the kids L-R and F-B: Drew, Eliza, Liesel, Myli, Eirik, Nate, Jacy, Daxton, Brynlee, Grant, Joren, Abram, Ben, Teancum, Ambri, Raelynn and Lilian (although I can't find her in the picture).

We'd like to thank everyone for coming and sharing such a special and fun day with Myli. She's still talking about it. We love you all.

Update

2011-12-07T10:11:00.000-08:00

Well a lot has happened since my last post. Nothing too excited, just busy.

Teancum is potty trained as of the 1st week of October. I realized that the last time I posted about it, I just said I was getting ready to try, and I never updated. Not that any of you care, but this is for my own documentation. He did really good. It only took a couple of days. On day three, we went to LeiLani's soccer game and he went while we were there. The next day we went to church, and he did great there too. The next week Nana watched the kids while Travis and I were in Hawaii, and about a day or two into our trip, he started telling her he needed to go, so that was nice. By the time we got back, he was a pro. He's had maybe 2-3 accidents since, and he's dry during naps and through the night. Great job Teancum. You're a stud.

Thanksgiving was on our own this year. I was so excited because I've never made Thanksgiving dinner. Is that a sad confession since we've been married almost 7 years? We've always gone to family's house so I've usually just brought a side dish. We made pies the night before, and then the full meal the day of. Travis had the day off which was nice. We weren't sure if he was going to. The dinner turned out great, and I thought it was pretty easy. Didn't take any longer than this fancy home made lasagne I did a few months back. It was nice, and quiet and at the end of the day, I had all my fall decorations put away and Christmas up. All in all it was a fun day together as a family. I think I'll enjoy the next 4+ years of doing it by ourselves:) However, we did miss family and wish we lived closer, but I'm also a make the most of what you're given type of person, so it was a great holiday. Christmas will be fun too with our own little Christmas Eve traditions and presents the next morning. We're still gonna do the family tradition of Mexican food on Christmas Eve and waffles and fancy syrup Christmas morning. That is definitely a must. I might have to throw in a little biscuits and gravy Christmas morning too since that's the tradition I was raised with:) Don't worry Travis, you'll still get your waffles.

We did Myli's Thanksgiving party for preschool here at our house. The girls made a gratitude list, pinned the head on the turkey, made pilgrim hats, cornbread and turkey cupcakes. I think they had a great time, and it was so fun watching them do their crafts and eating their snacks. We used paper for the turkey's head and tail on the turkey cupcakes, and Myli just couldn't get over it. She just kept saying, "Mom. We can't eat paper." I told her I knew that, and she could just take the paper out and eat her cupcake. Silly girl. We also made apple turkeys with marshmallows and raisins. I love this group of girls we have and it's nice that they're all the same age. Thanks Erin for staying and helping me with the party. You're the best.

This photo was actually taken at the preschool before the Thanksgiving party. They made Indian headbands and I thought she looked cute.

Myli, Jacy and Eliza

Pin the head on the turkey

She got it right in the center. Great job Myli.

Teancum loves when preschool is at our house, so he gets to participate.

The target was too high for him, so the poor guy didn't stand a chance at getting it anywhere near the center. He didn't mind though.

Turkey Apples

Posing with her pilgrim hat on.

Such a handsome dude

Eliza scarfing down her cupcake. I love this picture. She's such a dainty little girl, so I loved it when she was stuffing her face.

Jacy with her mouthful

This picture is funny because the photo I had taken before this, Myli had a face like, "please don't make me take one more bite." Then, she picks up her fork and digs in again. It was taking forever to upload pictures while trying to upload video at the same time, so I didn't post it. Too lazy.

Group shot

Ok so funny story. I finished off a carton of ice cream the other day (don't judge me). I threw it in the trash and went in the other room. While I was in there, LeiLani calls to me and says that Austyn is in the ice cream. I think, "what? How could she get ice cream?" Well the crazy girl reached in the trash and had grabbed the empty carton of ice cream. This was the adorable face I saw when I walked in the kitchen. Cracks me up.

Seeing me with the camera and saying, "Cheese!"

Myli had her ballet recital this week. I thought it was going to be earlier in the afternoon so Travis could come, but it ended up being at 7pm so he had to work. The kids were really good though and it didn't last very long. It was snowing a good amount, and Teancum and Austyn are both sick, so that wasn't ideal, but we just hurried out to the car. Well, we hurried as fast as you can being 8 months pregnant holding a 14 month old, and a train of three little kids hands telling them all not to slip and fall. I'm sure the sight of us is amusing at times.

Myli, Jacy and Eliza. Cute little ballerinas.

I posted the video of the two numbers the girls danced to. There's one where they do ballet, and then the Yankee Doodle one was supposed to be tapping. Myli didn't have tap shoes, so I'm not sure if you could distinguish the difference. Oh well, she loved doing it, and it was pretty cute watching the show.

Fall

2011-11-18T06:45:00.000-08:00

Fall here in Michigan has been absolutely beautiful. I can't believe it's my first fall ever. Growing up in Arizona, or atleast the places I've lived, you just don't get the pretty colors. Well now the colors are gone and it's time for the leaves to fall off the trees. I think the kids like this part the best because it means it's play time when Daddy goes out in the yard.

Travis had just raked the front yard before leaving for Florida for a Dermatology Convention for four days. In that four days, all of the leaves came off of our trees. It was crazy. It was like raining leaves whenever you looked outside. The first set of photos are from our front yard. It was really cold that day. Austyn had to stay inside and just enjoy the view. The second set of pictures is of the back yard, and the weather was gorgeous. It was in the 60s which is really warm for us, so the kids didn't even have sweaters on. I thought it was about time we let Austyn out in the fun.

Enjoy the pictures.

Austyn still having a great attitude even though she's stuck inside.

All the leaves in the front yard before the raking began.

Notice Myli's beanie around her eyes. Crazy girl:)

Myli falling because she can't see anything.

She noticed I had the camera, so now she's showing off because she thinks she's funny. I have to admit, she kind of is.

Check out this stud. I know I say this all the time, but I love this kid.

Pictures of the backyard before the raking.

Austyn finally getting to enjoy the fun.

As you can tell by her mouth, she's saying, "oohoohooh!" I love hearing this girl jibber jabber. She's so cute and expressive.

Saying cheese for the camera. I love that she'll pose on cue (sp?) when I get the camera out.

Mmmmm.....these leaves sure are tasty:)

Our neighbor had been burning his leaves, so Travis thought he would give it a try. We had a significant amount more than him, so we realized really quickly that this was not a good idea. Luckily it was wet, so we didn't burn anything down:) We also thought we were being good because we did it in the fire pit. Technically that's legal right:)

Last Friday was spirit day at LeiLani's school. You were supposed to dress up in a certain decade.....50s,60s,70s,80s or 90s. Can you guess what decade LeiLani is?:) I had so much fun dressing her up and doing her hair. The funny thing is that my Mom really did my hair this way when I was her age. Oh how times have changed. Isn't she cute. I can't believe how big she is. I am catching up on my scrapbooking right now, and I was looking through LeiLani's very first scrapbook. She doesn't look anything like her baby photos at all. I didn't think she had changed that much, but she really has. It's kind of bitter sweet. It's nice when they get more independent and can help, but it's so sad to look back and know those precious moments of her being a little baby are over forever. Guess we'll just have to keep having more kids, so I can get my baby fix:)

It was really cold outside, so I had her wear her snow boots. She did not want to. She said, "But I'm gonna look funny." Then I told her, "That's kind of the idea." My poor daughter. She already has more fashion sense than I do and she's only 5. That's what you get when your Mom grows up with brothers and could care less about that sort of thing. Hopefully she'll turn out like her Dad in that regard.

Halloween

2011-11-03T13:50:00.000-07:00

Halloween was a lot of fun this year. It was a little sad because Travis wasn't around to enjoy any of the festivities. He usually misses trick or treating on Halloween night, but is home for the Trunk or Treat. This year he had to work during the Trunk or Treat and he was in Florida for a Dermatology Convention on Halloween. However, we still managed to bring home a truck load of candy, and I wasn't constantly dressing the kids up for days on end like it seems we have done the previous years.

The girls were all ballerina's this year thanks to Nana. I was already planning on Austyn being a ballerina because I had found the leotard and tutu on clearance at target a couple months back. When Nana was kind enough to come tend the kids while Travis and I went to Hawaii, she brought the girls tutus and leotards for their dress up bin. I took advantage of the free costumes and decided they could all be ballerinas this year. Teancum was a white trash cowboy thanks to his Mom. He already had the boots, but the $1 store was out of cowboy hats, so he had to settle for a homemade cowboy hat out of cardboard from a diaper box. I covered it with the paper from a brown paper bag, and I used the handles of said bag, tied them together, and that was his belt. I also made his buckle from the cardboard and covered it in foil and wrote, "Cowboy Up" on it. The hat was too small after I spent two hours making it. I swear this kid's head is huge, so I had to go to my sewing stuff and staple some elastic to the hat, so it would stay on. I still thought he looked like a stud though. You can totally tell the hate is way too small for him though. It made me laugh. I have no shame. My poor kids will be so embarrassed of their mother when they get older. Right now I'm taking advantage of them not knowing any better.

Anyways, on the 28th LeiLani's school did their Halloween parade and class party. LeiLani looked so cute and grown up. I took all of the kids to her class party, and decided I will probably not attend any more class parties. I was so busy taking care of the younger ones that I was absolutely no help to the teacher or other parents with all of the different activities. I just followed her from station to station and just watched. She was glad I came though, so I guess it was worth it:)

That night was the ward Trunk or Treat. They had chili and cornbread and cupcakes. Once I had all the kids fed, they did a spooky ally and LeiLani and Myli went through by themselves. LeiLani came running out and said, "Mom it wasn't even scary. It was just dark and they had a lot of hand puppets." Funny girl.

After the spooky alley, we headed outside to trunk or treat. It was over in about 15 minutes and they came home with a haul. After we got home, I took pictures of all of them for Daddy. Then, we got in our PJ's and called it a night.

On the actual day of Halloween Myli had a Halloween party for preschool. I haven't gotten the pictures from my friend yet, so I will post those later. That night my friend Anona and I had dinner together since both of our husbands were out of town. After dinner, we dressed up all the kids and went trick or treating around her neighborhood. It was so much fun. The weather was beautiful, and the girls loved following her boys around from house to house. Teancum and Lilian traded off holding our hands. They were very slow, but it was so cute to listen to them say, "Trick or Treat," and then Thank You after they got their candy. Austyn was perfectly content just sitting in the stroller. Every time I would yell for Teancum to say Trick or Treat she would just start yelling and getting all excited. I guess that was her way of asking for candy in her own language.

All in all it was a great year. Thanks again Anona for sharing it with us. We should make it a tradition:)

Enjoy the pictures.

The beginning of LeiLani's parade.

LeiLani and her friend Alyssa walking back from the parade. I love that they're holding hands.

All the yummy treats.

This girl is so cheesy when you get the camera out.

Our best attempt at a photo with all of the kids.

See what I mean about the hat:)

Oh ya. I decided to do homemade root beer for the dinner with Anona Monday night. The kids loved it when I through the dry ice in. I have to admit it is pretty cool.

L-R:Lilian, Grant, Abram, Teancum, LeiLani, Austyn, Hyrum and Myli

Pumpkin Patch

2011-11-03T13:41:00.000-07:00

I'm way late posting about this, but I had forgotten my camera and took all of my pictures on my phone, and I just now figured out how to upload them to my computer. On Oct. 10th I took the preschool girls to a pumpkin patch at Erie Orchards. We had so much fun.

When we arrived, we walked through the market and bought some apple cider donuts for the girls. Then we walked outside and ate them on the bench swing. After that, the girls wanted to go see the animals and pet them. Next to the animals was a cool little play area for the kids. It had a play structure, a big tractor, little tricycle tractors and an area full of straw to play in. They really enjoyed that. Once they were done playing, we headed over to the pumpkins and each girl picked a tiny pumpkin to take home. There were also chickens in the barn so we had to look at them. Then, we walked through the apple orchard and finished at the corn maze. The day was absolutely beautiful and all of the fall colors were out for all to see. It really was gorgeous. We walked back and ate our sack lunches and then headed home. The girls loved it. They kept thanking me for such a fun preschool day. Gotta love 3 year olds. They're so easy to please.

Enjoying the yummy donuts

L-R: Eliza, Myli and Jacy

She's such a little poser. It cracks me up.

Chasing each other through the corn maze.

Aloha

2011-10-26T07:49:00.000-07:00

Travis and I were able to go to Hawaii with my family a couple of weeks ago. My parents won a trip through their work and were able to take us as their guests. We had been looking forward to this trip for so long. Travis' work schedule has been crazy, so we were really excited to finally be able to spend some time together just the two of us. I need to give a huge thank you to my mother-in-law who came and stayed with the kids while we were gone. Thank you so much Lenna. We knew our kids were in good hands, so we were able to relax and really enjoy ourselves.

We flew into Honolulu on Wednesday. We picked up our rental car and drove to the house my parents rented for the first few days. We just got settled and ate dinner and went to bed. There is a six hour difference between Hawaii and Detroit. Plus, we had been in an airport for 13+ hours, so we were exhausted. We woke up early Thursday morning and walked to the beach. Then, we came back, had breakfast, got ready and headed to Pearl Harbor. It was going to be over an hour wait for the tour and we had seen it already, so we decided to go to lunch at the Highway Inn. We saw it on Diner's, Drive Ins and Dives and wanted to try it. My parents came with us, and it was really good. I especially liked the Kalua Pork. After lunch we went back to the house, and took a nap and just vegged for a bit. Then we had dinner and headed to bed early again.

Friday we woke up early and headed to North Shore. We did a session at the temple and some sealings. Then, we ate lunch and my Mom and brother's and their wives went to the Polynesian Cultural Center. We had already seen it, so my Dad came with Travis and I and we went exploring. We checked out BYU's campus, stopped at a fruit stand, went to Sunset Beach and watched the surfers and soaked up some rays. Then, we stopped at a little antique shop and looked around. We headed back to Waikiki and went to dinner at this awesome Italian Restaurant called Assaggios. It was so good. Travis and I split the Chicken Oreganato. It was grilled chicken over rice with fried garlic and oregano. YUMMMMY! Then we headed home, stopped and got a pure chocolate and went to bed.

Saturday the convention started so we woke up, ate breakfast, played games and checked out of our house. We headed to the hotel and got checked in and ate lunch. Then, Travis and my Dad took back the rental cars. That afternoon, we went to the beach and the pool for a few hours and then went up to our rooms to get ready for the Luau. Aflac does a Luau on the first night that is buffet style, and then they bring out fire dancers and do fireworks. It was so much fun. My camera was blurry, so I only got a picture of the fire twirling in a circle. It turned out pretty cool I thought though. When you walked into the Luau, a row of little girls were waiting to put a Lei around your neck. Then, they also had Polynesian women standing on platforms posing, so I had to get a picture. After the Luau we called it a night.

Aflac paid for everyone to go on an excursion, but it was on Sunday. You had to go too or they charged you $75 for missing it. We woke up, had breakfast and headed to our bus. They shuttled us to the west side of the island and we boarded a boat and went snorkeling. It was so much fun. Travis and I had never been snorkeling before. The water was not that cold either, so it was so much fun. It's very unnatural to breathe through your mouth, so it was a little difficult to get used to. My chest got really tight and stayed that way for about ten minutes, but then I was able to relax and enjoy myself. We saw sea turtles, and a sting ray, and all the bright colored fish you see on finding nemo. It was an all day affair. We left around 11:30am and got back to the hotel around 5:15pm. We really had a great time. We got a little sea sick on the ride back. The water was really rough. Then we headed to dinner with all of my brother's and their wives. My parents had plans with some friends. We were missing Shawn and Nicole, but they'll definitely be there next time:) We went and ate at this place called Kobe. It was a Japanese Restaurant where they cook at your table. Travis and I had never been to any of those places either, so we were really excited. It's so entertaining and the food is awesome! We split the steak entree and had fried rice, soup and shrimp for an appetizer. After dinner, we walked around, got ice cream and walked some more. Then, we all parted ways and went to bed.

On Monday we had an appt to go to a time share presentation. We wouldn't normally have done it, but it was only 90 minutes and when you were done, they gave you $200 to spend at all the shops and restaurants around the hotel. We figured, "Why not?" The time share was still entertaining, and we told them up front we were only there for the money:) After the presentation we headed to the International Market with Dawn and Cory. We ate at this hot dog stand called Hank's Hot Dogs. We saw it on Diners, Drive Ins, and Dives too. Travis got the Chicago Dog and I ate the fries. They were both really good. Then, we shopped and bought some T-shirts for the kids as souvenirs. Then we headed back. I was still hungry, but Travis was tired so he took a nap and I went to lunch with Mom, Dad, Justin and Cassie. We went to Buffalo Wild Wings. Then we went back to the room to get ready for the formal dinner. Aflac always has one night that's formal where they feed you dinner and do awards. They also let you take home the chargers (they're these huge decorative plates your dinner plates sit on), glasses and napkin rings. They were pretty cool.

Tuesday was our last day. We were flying out at 8:30pm. We had to leave a night early with the time change and extra travel time. We still didn't get home until Wednesday afternoon around 4pm. Anyways, we got up in the morning, ate breakfast and went to spend our money we got. Travis and I each got a pair of Oakley sunglasses. We were so excited. We have never paid more than $5 on a pair of sunglasses, so it was nice to pamper ourselves and not have to pay for it. Then, we went to lunch, then the beach one last time. Travis brought his football to throw on the beach and had only done it once, so I took pity on him, and played with him:) I'm just kidding. I actually like throwing the football with him. I do get bored with it after 20 minutes or so, and he can do it for hours. We saw Lamar and Danae out there, so Lamar relieved me and I went to visit with Danae. Then Justin and Cassie showed up, so they had fun. We went back to the room to shower and pack. We headed to dinner around 5pm because we needed to catch a shuttle to the airport at 6:15pm. We ate at Benihanas. It's another Japanese Restaurant. Can you tell we really liked it the first time. The food was really good again. Our chef wasn't as good as the other one. You could tell he was new and hadn't been doing it that long, but it was still fun. We were totally stressed on the time. We had to wolf down our food and ask for our check and run to our room, get our bags and run to the shuttle. We took one last photo with the family and walked up just as our shuttle was arriving.

It was so much fun and the perfect blend of relaxing and entertainment. It was really a much needed break and we were so grateful to my Mom and Dad for making it so much fun. It was also so good to see my family and I wouldn't have had the chance to see them otherwise. It will probably be atleast two years before we make it home to AZ again, so it was really nice to see everyone. Shawn and Nicole might come to Detroit for the baby blessing in March, so we'll get to see them then. Thanks everyone for the wonderful time. We really loved it.

Now enjoy the pictures:)

Temple. Isn't it beautiful.

The little hawaiian girls all lined up.

Hawaiian dancer

Fire dancers

View of the shore from our boat when we went snorkeling. I'll save your eyes from any pregnant bathing suit photos:)

Our chef at Kobe (the good one) He was building a volcano with onions.

He poured oil and brandy down the middle and lit it on fire. Pretty cool.

Making our fried rice.

In front of the International Market

View of our hotel walking back from the International Market. Isn't it beautiful:)

Travis and I at the reception before the dinner.

The whole fam at dinner. We thought it was so cool we all got sat at the same table.
L-R Travis, Me, Cassie, Justin, Cory, Dawn, Lamar, Danae, Dad and Mom. Don't they all clean up nicely:)

What We've Been Up To

2011-10-07T11:17:00.001-07:00

My parents came to visit for Conference Weekend. It was so much fun having them here. It was a quick trip, and pretty low key since Conference was going on, but we still managed to have a little fun. Friday night we went out on a double date and my friend Anona watched the kids. We went and ate at Texas Roadhouse and then came home and watched Transformers 3 on DVD. Not my most favorite of the Transformer movies.

Saturday we ran errands in the morning and then watched Conference. That night I made dinner for the family and then Travis had to go to work for the night shift. On Sunday we just lounged and watched Conference again. We ate beans and home made rolls for dinner, but nothing too exciting.

Monday my friend Anona watched the kids again so we could go to the Greenfield Village and The Henry Ford Museum. It's a huge place with lots of history, so we knew we wouldn't get through 1/3 of it with the kids there. We have a season pass, but my parents only had this one day to see it. It was a lot of fun, and by the end we were very tired from all the walking and hungry, so we stopped at Taco Bell before going home.

Us on the steam engine train. They go through 1500 gallons of water and about 3/4 of a ton of coal in an hour to maintain the pressure needed to run the train around the village.

Doesn't Travis look so excited to be there. He had gotten home from work at 4:30 that morning, so he was tired. He really was chipper the whole day though. He's just too cool to smile in photos:)

Mom and Dad. They forgot their coats, and we had a major cold front. This was actually the warmest day they were here. The high was 64.

One of the shops in the village has old hats from the late 1800s, so we put them on and snapped a photo.

As you can see, Travis would much rather be wearing a cowboy hat:)

Mom and Dad are always happy to dress up if it will be funny

This is what fall looks like here in Michigan. Isn't it gorgeous? I've never experienced Fall, so I'm loving this.

Myli started dance last week. We weren't gonna put her in dance, but the two girls she does preschool with were doing it, and it was pretty cheap, so we decided she needed something to do that was just for her. She loves it, and I have to admit, she looks pretty cute in her leotard and tutu.

The kids absolutely love the backyard. Austyn loves it too now that we finally let her go out there with the other kids. The other day they were all out there playing, and Travis told me I needed to get a picture, so I did. I love how my kids start posing when the camera comes out.

Austyn and her shaggy hair.

There's the happy girl.

Myli is such a goof. Her and LeiLani crack me up sometimes.

Here's our little Tanker Man swinging on the tree swing. I love this kid.

Oh by the way, we started potty training him this week. Cross your fingers we both make it through it:)

Austyn Turns 1

2011-09-26T12:08:00.001-07:00

My baby girl turned 1 last Friday. I can't believe how fast this last year has gone. I know I say that with all of my kids, but it's true. I feel like every year is going by faster and faster, and before you know it, my babies will be all grown up. I'm really trying to enjoy them now because I know I'll miss it when they're older.

Austyn's big day was pretty low key. We were busy getting Dad ready for his trip. We were running errands, doing laundry, making treats for primary, baking cupcakes, practicing the piano, going over school stuff, etc. We didn't get to Austyn's party until after dinner. I figure she doesn't know the difference, so that's ok. I made sure I did take lots of pictures for her scrapbook. It was really fun just having the party together as a family. We've never done this before, and I really liked it. The kids were so excited, and she loved all of the attention. We did presents first, and then stripped her down to a diaper so she could eat the good stuff.

So excited to look at Nana's card.

Present time

As you can see, she loves it.

Sticking out her tongue. Just like her Daddy.

Peeling back the paper.

Not wasting any time. She dove right in.

Sugar high kicking in.

I thought this picture was funny. LeiLani is by far my cleanest eater, but I guess she loved all the excitement we were having over Austyn making such a mess that she decided to join in the fun.

My handsome little man.

Cupcake up her nose. I love her face.

All done. More please.

I just love my little Tin Tin. She's such a happy girl. She's kept her dark hair, and her Daddy and I think she's beautiful combining her brown hair with her blue eyes. She's such a joy to have around, and we couldn't be more grateful that she's ours. We love you baby girl. Happy Birthday!

Soccer

2011-09-26T12:01:00.001-07:00

LeiLani started soccer the week after Labor Day. The weather here has been really wet, so she's only had two practices and one game all month. The field has just been too wet and muddy. I figure they're kids and would love to get dirty, so let them get dirty. Plus, this is the first year playing for most of them, so they really just chase the ball anyway. What do I know. She likes it from what I gather. I'm trying to take lots of photos and video because Travis' schedule is so busy, he's not able to make it to any of the practices or games. We're hoping he'll make it to her last game though. Since her first game was cancelled, they'll make it up at the end of the season, so he should be able to watch. I love seeing her in her soccer clothes. She looks like such a tom boy. She's not, but it's the closest I'm gonna get with her. She's really fast which is good. Now we just need to teach her to be competitive like her mom:)

In case you can't tell, she's the one in the green shirt, black short, and black socks with white stripes.

Being social as usual.

Labor Day

2011-09-14T04:03:00.001-07:00

We had such a fun Labor Day weekend. Our good friends Ben and Leah came to visit us. They live in Ohio, but they're only about 3 1/2 hours away. Both Travis and Ben had Labor Day off, so we decided to play. I was so excited when Leah called asking what our plans were. I've been wanting to get together ever since we moved here, but we just hadn't found the time over the summer.

Ben had to work the night shift on Friday, so they got here around lunch on Saturday. It was humid and hot, so after lunch we turned the sprinkler on and had the kids play in the back yard.

I love this picture of Tank. Whenever he's really excited, this is the look on his face.

We topped the afternoon off with swinging on the tree swing over the sprinkler. So fun.

These next set of pictures are out of order as far as festivities go, but I didn't want to switch them. On Monday night, we had a BBQ and roasted s'mores in the fire pit in our back yard. We had so much fun. The night was bitter sweet because we knew once the s'mores were gone, they would be leaving.

Myli pretending to pout. Funny girl.

Now she's being cheesy.

Showing off for the camera.

This kid is such a stud.

Yummy!

Now we can get back on track in order. Saturday night we had Tostadas for dinner and then got all the kids in bed and just chatted. Ben was exhausted from his all nighter, so he went to bed when the kids did. Travis was being unsocial as usual, so the chatting was done mostly by Leah and I. However, once we busted out the ice cream, Travis decided to join the party:)

Kids eating their Tostadas out on the deck.

On Labor Day we went to the Greenfield Village and The Henry Ford Museum. We have a pass that allows for two guests every time we go, and children 4 and under are free. It was cloudy and chilly on Monday. We were so glad because sweat shirts were perfect for the weather and Saturday was hot and humid. I'll take chilly any day. The kids were so good at the Village, but we were all exhausted by the end. This is such a cool place though. It's filled with old buildings and history of the engineers and creators that contributed so much to our lives. They have buildings where the Wright brothers built bikes and their first airplane. Of course they have Henry Ford's home he grew up in and shops he built cars in. There's a train that was made in the early 1900's that you ride around in. They also have rides in Model T cars. There's a carousel built in 1913. Every animal is hand carved and hand painted. The museum is full of all kinds of planes, cars, guns, etc. So much fun.

The fountain right before you enter the village.

Riding on the train. Claire, Ben, Grace and Eden.

Leah with Grace and Eden on the carousel.

This gazebo reminds me of Gilmore Girls. I'm a huge fan of the show, so this just made me happy when I saw it.

Model T

Everyone waiting for the train.

This little one is getting so big. She turns 1 on the 23rd and I have no idea where this last year went. She's gorgeous and full of personality and smiles. I love this girl.

Train ride again.

Family shot before riding in the model T

Teancum and Myli on the carousel.

There was this old house. I can't remember who's it was, but it had this cool back yard with grape vines, chicken coupe and a huge pot that reminds me of a witch's pot.

This tiny bed made me smile with the two little dolls on it.

Checkers anyone?

Old dresser and record player

So Precious

These two crack me up. Always busy busy.

Some of the pictures of the village were kind of the same because Leah and I both had our camera, but there were too many cute ones not to include all of them.

Thank you so much Ben and Leah for making the trip and coming out to see us. We had so much fun and the weekend flew by way too fast. It's so nice to have close friends still living nearby. Now it's our turn to make a trip to see you guys. Happy Labor Day everyone!

1st Day of School

2011-09-07T10:11:00.000-07:00

LeiLani officially started kindergarten the day after Labor Day. Myli also had her first day of preschool as well. It was a very exciting and eventful day. We started the tradition off right with father's blessings the night before. I love being married to a man who honors his priesthood, and can be called on at a moments notice to lend that service. It was so touching to hear the sweet words spoken to both girls. They were both very reverent, and felt so special to have a blessing specifically for them.

The morning started with breakfast, dressing all four kids, doing hair, packing back packs, and loading up in the double stroller to cross the street for school. It was chilly here. Low 50's. Pretty crazy considering it would have been 115 in AZ. We waited outside for the doors to open, and then we went in. They directed us to the kindergarten hall way. We lined up, and grabbed a packet for an A-Z scavenger hunt to start when we got into her classroom. Parents were asked to be there the first day. My wonderful friend Anona took the other kids, and it was just LeiLani and I. She was so excited. The scavenger hunt got us familiar with the classroom, and lined her out with a pencil box, name tag, bus tag, seat assignments, etc. I really love her teacher. She seems so nice. You can tell she loves teaching. At the end of the scavenger hunt, we took a picture and LeiLani gave her a hug. After finishing the scavenger hunt, we were able to go home. I had to have LeiLani back in an hour for her kindergarten screening so we got some hot chocolate to kill time. I was in awe of my little girl. I guess she's not so little anymore, and she seems so excited and ready for this day. I on the other hand don't think I was fully prepared. I was so excited for her to start school. She loves to learn, and I thought it would be nice to have only 3 at home for a few months, but I really miss my little helper and friend. LeiLani loves to please. She always helps out and keeps the other kids in line. She's very obedient, and informs me and everyone else if someone is not obeying the rules. She's sweet and sensitive, and I will miss having her here all day. Luckily, she's not far away.

Myli had her first day of preschool with her two friends Eliza and Jacy. My friend Erin took pictures of the girls outside our house, so I will post that when she sends it to me. It went so well. I taught the first day. The girls we're with are so sweet and eager to learn. They picked up on everything so quickly and they really play well together. We practiced our ABC's and learned the rules. We played games, and did some role playing. We had a puppet come visit, and we learned about repenting when we do something wrong. The girls really loved it. We ended things with a snack and everyone left happy. I consider that a success in my book.

Later that afternoon I had to go through LeiLani's folders and read everything they sent home for the parents. Then, that night was Bunco at our house. It made for a busy day, but a fun one at that.

Today I officially dropped LeiLani off at school by herself. It wasn't too bad. I felt more prepared and more at ease after seeing her classroom and meeting her teacher. We live right across the street, so I get to see her outside on the playground. I looked out there today and she was running around with another little girl, so she's already made a friend and looked very happy. She'll do great.

Now for the pictures.

LeiLani wearing Nana's birthday outfit on the her first day.

Myli in her cutie sweatshirt. I think it explains her to a T.

Best Buds

We had to add a handsome face to the group. Love that kid.

Austyn is finally old enough to participate in all of the festivities. She's loving following these crazy kids around.

LeiLani in front of her classroom

LeiLani and her teacher.

The next few pictures are kind of random. The girls finished eating their lunch and were getting a snack. Teancum wanted one too, so he shoved all four pieces of his cheese crisp in his mouth and was trying to say all done, so I would give him a snack. Crazy kid.

Myli caught a frog in the backyard while Dad was mowing the lawn. She was so excited.

Frog terrified of being squished I'm sure.

LeiLani's turn to hold the frog.

As you can see, we're staying busy and loving life here in Michigan. We also had a really fun Labor Day weekend with friends. I'm waiting on pictures from Leah before I post, so something to look forward to. I took pictures at the Greenfield Village, but she took pictures of all of the weekend fun.

Guess Who's 5

2011-08-22T03:55:00.001-07:00

LeiLani turned 5 this past Friday. I can't believe I have a 5 year old. She's getting so big so fast, but I still think of her as being so little. I don't know why. LeiLani is such a huge help to me. She always wants to help with dinner, cleaning, laundry etc. Anytime you ask her to do something for you, she jumps up and says, "Sure!" She's so wonderful to have as the oldest.

She starts kindergarten two weeks from tomorrow. We just found out who her teacher is, and we couldn't be more excited. My friend tells me she's such a great teacher. She's sweet and fun, but still firm and has control over the classroom. I'm really happy about it.

We did a Birthday party for her the weekend before her actual birthday because Travis was scheduled to work the weekend of her birthday. Well, he didn't end up being at the party because he worked the weekend of the party, and then had the weekend of her birthday off. Oh well. At least we tried. The party was so much fun. She had a lot of friends come. We did lunch, had a water balloon fight, ate cupcakes and opened presents. All in all I think it was a success. I was exhausted when it was all over though, so I don't think we'll do parties every year once our kids turn 5. It's just too much work. I didn't realize how long it takes to make water balloons, so I was outside for over an hour, and had only done 100. The kids went through those in about two minutes, so I just had them play in the water in the ice chest after that:)

Here are all the kids lined up getting ready to start the water balloon fight.
L-R: Jacy, Daxton, Myli, LeiLani, Abram, Hyrum, Grant, Ben, Eliza, Brynlee, Raelynn, Ryanne and Nate.

Party in the ice chest. Myli cracks me up.

LeiLani's turn to get in with Eliza and Ryanne. Notice her trying to push her little sister out of the way. My girls aren't competitive at all. I wonder where they get that from:)

I wouldn't normally put this picture on here, but my camera ran out of memory when LeiLani was blowing out the candles, so this is the only picture I have to prove there were cupcakes.

Present time! I was so impressed with how awesome her gifts were. I've never been a good gift giver, but I got some really good ideas. This particular present is of a princess mirror made out of wood that she can decorate herself with glitter pens and stickers.

Gift from Nana. Horse shirt and skirt and candy necklace.

Here's LeiLani on the morning of her actual birthday reading her card from Aunt Krystal. Notice the cool shades. I just love this girl. She loves cards and will carry them around for days until I finally have to throw them away because they are falling apart.

Daddy was able to come home early from work on her birthday. We opened presents and then took her to Chili's for her birthday. She loves that place, and it's very convenient because I'm quite fond of it as well:)

Thanks to all of LeiLani's friends who came to the party, and for the Mom's who stayed to help me out. A big thank you to my friend Anona for taking Teancum and Austyn for me during the party. You're awesome!

Safety Program

2011-08-15T07:10:00.000-07:00

I blogged a couple weeks ago that I had put LeiLani in a Safety Program the town does here for all the kids about to start kindergarten. I'm so glad we decided to do it. She had so much fun, and learned alot. I also felt it was really cheap considering everything they learned and so forth. They went on two field trips, learned bicycle safety and got a free bike helmet, drove mini jeeps around a mini safety town village, had clowns and safety characters come speak to them, etc. It really was a well put together program. At the end of the two weeks, they have a graduation. They showed a slide show of all the pictures they had taken of the various things they did. They also had a picture of your child in a frame they made with Luigi the Lightning Bug. After calling them up for their folder and bag of goodies, they had cupcakes and punch for everyone. It was really alot of fun and she loved it. Myli is already talking about when she gets to do it.......two years from now:)

This is just a random picture of the kids. They were playing in the back yard the day after it rained and Myli dipped her head in the water. Crazy girl.

High Fiving Sgt. Paul. He's organizes this whole things and runs it. The kids like him a lot. It was so comforting knowing the police department ran everything. It gave me piece of mind that she was safe.

The little jeeps they drove around while they learned street safety, etc. I think they drove them two to three times a week. She loved it.

Myli of course had to have a picture in it too.

Sgt. Paul and officer Tony

For all my friends here in Michigan who have kids starting kindergarten next year or in the upcoming years; I would strongly recommend this program. It's $40 for residents and $45 for non. Not a bad price I didn't think and the kids love it. They do two sessions. One in the morning and one in the afternoon.

Drumroll Please..........

2011-08-08T16:05:00.000-07:00

And the verdict...........We're having a.............

GIRL!!!!!

Sorry No Pics

2011-08-03T10:07:00.000-07:00

Hey Everyone. I know it's been awhile. I've been staying home a lot which is good because it helps us save money, but also bad because I don't have anything to blog about. This weekend we did something really fun, and I forgot to bring my camera. I know, I'm retarded. I decided instead of not posting, I would just tell you about all of our fun, and you'll hopefully forgive me for not having any pictures.

We went to Greenfield Village and the Henry Ford Museum. We decided to buy a season pass for the whole family because there's way too much to see, and not enough time to fit it all in one day with four kids. It's absolutely beautiful, historic, and just plain fun. We rode on a train that was built in or around 1912. It ran on coal and water of course. We saw baseball with the early 1900 rules. They don't use gloves, the ball is slightly bigger, the bat is thicker and longer, and they pitch under hand. It was definitely interesting. We rode on a carousel that was built in 1913. Each animal was carved from real wood and hand painted. We rode in a horse drawn bus. The horses were huge. They also have model T cars to ride in, but we didn't want to stand in line for it. We'll do it another time.

They had the childhood home that Henry Ford grew up in. There was the Wright Bros. Bike shop where they made and sold bikes, and they also built their first plane in that shop. There was too much to remember it all, and we didn't even see half of it. I'm so glad we bought the season pass. It will also be fun to take family there when they visit.

After the village, we went to the Henry Ford Museum. They had all sorts of planes from different years. They also had cars starting as old as 1898 and moving up. They had old trains, presidential cars from the past, tons and tons of things. We didn't stay in the museum for very long because the day was winding down and the kids were really tired.

All in all it was a great day. It was a little warm and humid, but fun. We packed a lunch and snacks, so that saved a lot of moolahh, and also kept the kids happy. Austyn did awesome! She just chilled in the stroller the whole time happy as can be. She's such a good baby. I really didn't expect that especially since she's 10 months old and crawling everywhere, but she did great.

This week LeiLani started a Safety Program that the town puts on every year for the kids going into Kindergarten. It's two hours a day for two weeks. They learn about bike safety, and they give them a helmet, bus safety, animal safety, kitchen safety, 911 safety, fire safety, stranger danger, water safety, etc. I got to go with her the first day since it was kind of an introduction for the parents letting us know what's going on. They'll do a graduation for her on the final day and I get to go back for that. They gave her a T-shirt and name tag. I was a little nervous at first. I've never left her in a public environment with people I didn't know, but I felt a lot better about it since I knew police officers were running the program. It was a little sad that first day I left her. I really didn't think I would be that way, but as I gave her a hug and kiss and said goodbye, it was just weird. I realized with her starting kindergarten this year, I won't have all of my kids with me where I can control everything they see and hear and do. It's kind of scary. You just hope and pray you taught them right, and that they'll be strong and make good choices. She's getting so big. I'll go through it all over again in a month when she starts kindergarten. I'm taking my camera to graduation, so I'll definitely have pics next time I post.

Stay tuned.......on Monday we find out what we're having......boy or girl.....we'll see! So EXCITING!

4th of July

2011-07-11T06:09:00.000-07:00

I know I'm a little late getting this posted. I tried to do it last week, but the video wasn't uploading. We'll see if it will work this time. Otherwise, you'll just have to be happy with pictures.

The 4th of July was definitely different for us this year. It's the first time since we've been married that we haven't gone to Eagar for the 4th. The celebration is huge up there and we always have a family reunion. We were definitely kind of sad not to be there, but we still made the best of it here in Michigan. Travis had the day off which was a pleasant surprise. It was his 1st official week as an intern, so we really didn't think he would have it off. Luckily, he has dermatology this month, so the office was closed on the 4th. We spent the 1st part of the day doing the usual things. I worked out, ran errands, did laundry, cut Travis' hair etc. However, that afternoon we did have a fun little barbecue planned with friends.

As some of you know from the photos I posted of our house, we have a huge and wonderful back yard. Well we figured we should put it to good use. We had our friends the Davis' and the Hillam's over. We ate yummy food, had FHE, roasted smore's and lit fireworks. All in all I would say it was a hit. It doesn't get dark until around 10pm here, so the kids got to stay up late which they always love. We really had a great time. Thanks for coming everyone, we'll have to have many more barbecue's before the summer's over.

Trevor and Hyrum shootin hoops

This is Abram. He is Trevor and Anona's second oldest boy. The girls love these boys. I think they love that they're older and still want to play with them.

Grant, LeiLani, Nate and Myli. Grant is 4 so he's right between LeiLani and Myli and so is Nate.

Anona and I. She has been so awesome living next to. We run three days a week, swap for date night and are giving each other's kids piano lessons. I can't describe how grateful I am to have found her.

This is Lilian. Anona and Trevor's one and only little girl. Isn't she beautiful. Her and Teancum are only two months apart. It's hilarious watching the two of them together.

Getting the fire going in our fire pit.

The aftermath of Teancum's first smore. Do you think he liked it?

I thought this picture of Lilian was hilarious. She stuffed the smore in her mouth and looked so adorable.

I didn't get any pictures of Steve and Tiffany Hillam and their beautiful twins. They were busy trying to juggle, and I just didn't get it. I'm so bummed. They have 7 month old twins. A boy and a girl. Nate is also theirs. Travis and Steve are both doing their Traditional Internship here. We're so excited they moved here, and that we get to go through this together.

Here are the videos I took of the kids playing with their sparklers. The first one is of Teancum, and the second one is of the girls. Enjoy!

Home Sweet Home

2011-06-21T06:51:00.000-07:00

I think the picture below explains it all. Moving is exhausting!:) I wasn't able to give Teancum a nap on this particular day, so during dinner this is what happened. I love this little guy. He's just so sweet.

Now, back to what the post is supposed to be about. I have finally taken pictures of our new place, so now everyone can stop making me feel guilty I didn't do it sooner:) j/k. We finally made it to Michigan. It wasn't without it's problems however.

At the end of our second day of driving, Travis stopped to get gas and noticed he lost the tread on one of the trailer tires. Luckily it held the air though. He and his Dad put on the spare and got to the hotel. Tuesday morning (our final day of driving.....well it was supposed to be) Travis and his dad drove about 35 miles to the next town and got two new tires put on the trailer. About 10 miles down the road, we saw smoke coming from one of them and called the guys to pull over. One of the new tires was completely flat and ruined. We waited with them on the side of the interstate for about 20 minutes, when Travis said we should just go ahead. There was nothing we could do but wait with them. We went on ahead, and they waited an hour for the truck from the tire company to come. They looked at the tire and saw that it was rubbing on the side of the wheel well, and said that there is something wrong with the axle, and that's our fault, so they wouldn't fix it or reimburse our money. I was a little annoyed needless to say.

Travis and Mark then drove about 3 to 4 miles an hour to get off the interstate at the next exit. They noticed they bent the axle. Can you say AHHHHH!!!! Axles are so expensive to replace. They take it to a mechanic, but no one can get to it until next week. They then proceed to rent a uhaul truck and begin unloading all of our stuff from our 24' trailer, to the 20' uhaul. To top things off, it was 97 degrees and 100% humidity. Mark and Travis finally get everything switched to the new truck, and realize the tire is no longer rubbing on our trailer now that there is no weight. Travis decides to drive the trailer, and Mark drives the Uhaul. They make it about half way and then need to stop for the night. Neither one of them can see very well at night. The boys finally arrive at 11am Wednesday morning. Luckily Travis was able to bring the trailer with him, so now we will park it until we can afford to replace the axle.

Lenna and I got here with the kids on Tuesday evening around 5:30pm. Two men from the ward help unload my 8x5 trailer and we get that all put away and settled. Someone brought us dinner so I didn't have to worry about that. Luckily I had a towel and oxi clean, so we were able to do some laundry and get a clean towel so we could all shower that night. I had the blow up mattress, but Travis had the sheets. We started the night by sleeping in the basement because the A/C stopped working, and I didn't get the fuses replaced and it working until about 9pm. It was too hot to try to sleep upstairs. The basement got freezing, and I only had one blanket for Lenna and I. The kids had blankets but the floor is concrete underneath the carpet, so it was really cold. About 1 in the morning I woke up and noticed Lenna was gone. She had gone upstairs to sleep. I then took the kids, the air mattress, and myself upstairs because we were gonna get hypothermia if I didn't.

We wake up Wednesday morning and decide to run to wal-mart before the guys get there and pick up a few things. We get in the car and my batteries are dead. My friend comes over to give me a jump, and it won't work because I have a diesel, and apparently a mini van isn't big enough to jump a diesel. Who knew. Luckily she was kind enough to loan me her van so I could pick up a few things. Travis and Mark went to get my batteries replaced later that afternoon. To top things off, Auto Zone wouldn't replace them for free since Travis wasn't the original buyer of the batteries. Are you kidding me! You only warranty them for the original buyer. Whatever.

Anyways, we finally made it. Everything is fixed and working......for now:) We really were blessed, and the kids were exceptionally good considering the were in the car all day for three long days.

Once we were here, I was all unpacked and settled by Thursday night. It definitely wasn't without help though. We definitely couldn't have done any of it without Mark and Lenna. I was so grateful to have them with us. They were going through such a stressful time with the Wallow Fire threatening to burn their home at any minute, and they still made the unselfish sacrifice to help us make this long journey. I can't describe my love and appreciation for the two of them. I love them so much.

Thankfully their home stayed safe too. The fire burned to their back fence, but everything is fine. What a blessing.

Now that I've bored you to tears....the good stuff. Pictures of our new place are below. Enjoy. It's so beautiful. I love it.

Our backyard. Doesn't it look like so much fun.

Basketball court

We also got our garden planted. I can't wait to see it start coming in soon. I'll take pictures when it does.

Graduation

2011-06-18T07:37:00.000-07:00

Well Travis finally graduated on June 3, 2011. My husband is officially a Dr. I can't believe how quickly the last four years went. I can only imagine how much faster the next five will be until we're completely done:) The day before graduation I got together with my good friend Criscell for pedicures. Who knew this would be the only time we saw each other the whole weekend. I'm so glad we made this happen. She brought her sister Chalise, and I brought my Mom of course. She was such a big help to me. She cleaned and helped me get packed for a whole week before we moved. Thanks Mom. You're the best.

I couldn't get a good picture throughout graduation. They all came out blurry, so I'll have to get them from my mother-in-law and post them later. Travis' entire family was there for his graduation. It meant so much to both of us that they were all willing to travel so far to support him in this huge accomplishment. It was so good to be able to spend time as a family and be all together. Who knows how long it will be before that happens again.

My parents were the only ones on my side able to make it. My brothers and their spouses were all in Mexico on a trip they had won for work. Ken and Anita were watching the boys of one of my siblings, and it was just going to be too much for them to chase two little ones and drive as well. They came and said goodbye the day before, and we were so glad. We also had a big family party in Gilbert the week before with all of my family and that was a blast as well. I wish I would've taken pictures of that. I'm so bummed.

Of course graduating means saying goodbye to wonderful friends. We have been friends with the Coleman's since we got married. We were in the same ward. However, we became really close when the guys started school together. We started swapping babysitting for date night, and kept the tradition alive for three years. These girls love each other so much as you can see by the photo. Luckily Ben and Leah are still only a few hours away, so we will hopefully still see each other a few times a year. We just love you guys.

This was one of Travis' study partners the first two years of school. His name is Matt and he was also Valedictorian of Travis' class. Good job Matt.
All in all it was a great weekend. I had pretty much everything done with the packing and cleaning so we could just enjoy our time with family. We had a luncheon after graduation at the church. Then, we went to Cabellas, and swimming and dinner. Saturday we packed up the trailor, went to lunch, packed the trailor some more and said goodbye. We left early Sunday morning for our new home in Michigan. We will miss AZ, but are so excited for new adventures in a new state.

Michigan

2011-06-17T04:10:00.000-07:00

Yes, we're here, and made it safely. Now I'm ready to be a faithful blogger again. Hopefully you all haven't given up on me. I'll take some pictures of the house and post soon.

Catching Up

2011-05-28T10:10:00.000-07:00

I know it's been forever. We have been running and running for the last few weeks now. This is going to be a long post because I'm cramming everything we've done over the past few weeks into one post, so bare with me.

Our little man turned two this month. We had a joint party with our friend Hudson (Sorry I don't have any pics from it, but it was a lot of fun). We went to the park with all of his little friends and had cupcakes and drinks and sang Happy Birthday of course. I'll have to get those pictures from Michelle and post them on here later because they are adorable. She did a great job as usual.

We were in Thatcher on Teancum's actual Birthday so of course we had to celebrate again. I wasn't wanting to make cupcakes again since I had just done it a couple weeks before, but I found this cute cupcake at Bashas with a little cowboy hat on it and I had to get it. He loved it.

Grandma gave Teancum a pillow pet for his Birthday. Lately Teancum has started to be scared of things. I don't know what it is, but it's so funny. Here he is opening it, and after he saw what it was he started crying and running away saying "I don't want it." Cracks me up. Just for the record, he loves it now and calls it Badger after Papa's horse.
Our hot and awesome Daddy took his last exam and officially finished on April 29, 2011. Yay Daddy! We had to have a little somethin for him when he got home, and this is what I came up with. What do you think?

I made him a tad bit taller than the real Travis, but I figured he would appreciate that:) Gotta love hospital gloves. Teancum of course was afraid of him too.
My two girls graduated from Preschool on the 29th as well. We have done a little Joy school with four other Mom's and their kids three days a week, and it was Awesome! Each one of these ladies is talented, sweet, and such great examples to me of how I want to be. We all pitched in putting the graduation together, and I thought it went very well. The kids loved it. We played games, had a little ceremony, ate lunch, and did a slip n slide. Such wonderful friends. We're going to miss everyone so much. Thanks again.

After Preschool Graduation and Travis' exam, we took two weeks to visit family. We spent the 1st week in Eagar with Travis' family and the 2nd week in Thatcher with my family. I didn't take any pictures while we were in Eagar. I'm so bummed, but it was a lot of fun. Lenna helped me make four quilts for my kid's beds. I couldn't have done it without her. Especially since it was my first time doing a quilt from start to finish. We hung out with family, had yummy food, Bryce and Charly blessed their beautiful little boy Riggin, and we just really had a great time. It's always so nice to go up in the mountains. Gorgeous.

In Thatcher we went up on Mt. Graham. I loved growing up near this mountain, and I love going up there and just taking a picnic, or grilling hamburgers, and playing games. We didn't go up very high because we were limited on time, but the weather was beautiful, and the kid loved it

Here's Bonka with Teancum throwing rocks in the stream.

Last, but certainly not least, I got together with some of my oldest and dearest friends for lunch. I have known Megan and Shari since I was three. We grew up together, graduated high school together, and now we're married, having our children together. These are two of the most beautiful and wonderful women I know in my life. Megan is always fun, light-hearted, sweet, and kind. She's patient, and so nice to everyone she meets. I'm so glad they've been around the last two years of school so we could hang out and spend time with their family. Shari is busy, productive, talented, and always good for a laugh. I admire how supportive she is of her husband, and how giving she is of everything she has. When we lived closer to one another she would give me her daughter's hand me down clothes since our girls were 8 months apart. She offered it willingly, and is always someone who will drop everything to help if she can. I'm so glad she moved a little closer, so we can have these little get togethers.

Oh ya, one last piece of news that most of you already know.......we're PREGNANT! AGAIN! I know what you're thinking and yes, I'm crazy, but we're thrilled to be expecting #5 in Jan. YAY!!!!

As the year is winding down and we are preparing to move to Michigan, I'm overwhelmed at how blessed our lives have been these last four years. We've met so many great and wonderful friends. We've built relationships that I will cherish the rest of my life. It's hard to leave and leave so many wonderful friends behind, but I'm hopeful of a brighter future and great friends still to come. All of you will never know how much you've impacted me and my family, but I thank you from the bottom of my heart for your love and kindness. I'm proud to call you my friend.

A Few Of My Favorites

2011-04-28T16:41:00.000-07:00

These are a few of my favorites of the Family Photos Michelle took. I think she did a great job at choosing the best ones herself. She's posted them here. I really do love our photos. I know I've gone on and on about them, but I just love them so much. I'm officially selecting Michelle as our personal photographer. Of course we'll have to schedule our next session five years out:) I hope she's still living here when we move back to AZ. Love you Michelle. Thanks again.

This photo portrays Teancum and Austyn to a T. He's obsessed with her, and she could care less:)

Family Pictures

2011-04-22T14:21:00.000-07:00

My incredibly talented friend Michelle took family pictures for us this week. To say she's AWESOME is an understatement. The woman is literally out of this world talented. I view her as having the Midas touch. Seriously, everything that woman touches or does turns to gold. She has a way of making the rest of us feel inadequate, but we love her anyway:)

Thank you so much Michelle. I just love you.

To view our photos and the rest of Michelle's handycwork go here.

I'll also post some of my favorites on here later.

Preschool Easter Party

2011-04-22T14:10:00.000-07:00

Today was a fun and sad day all at the same time. It was fun to celebrate Easter and teach the little ones why we celebrate it. However, it was sad because it was my last time to teach, and next week we're doing a little graduation and it will be over. Normally not too big of deal, but it's the last time LeiLani and Myli will be with their little friends in an organized setting for maybe FOREVER. We've made such wonderful friends here, and we have loved every minute that we've spent with them.

Anyways, back to the party. The kids made Easter crowns out of paper plates, and our treats were cross buns, smores substituted with peeps instead of roasted marshmallows, and easter colored m&ms. After all that, we finished with an Easter video that's on the lds.org website right now. I wanted the kids to pay attention, so I needed something short. It's only about 2 1/2 minutes. Perfect for this age group. It was a great party and the kids really had a good time.

All of them in their Easter Crowns.

Dessert.....Mmmmm!

Group shot eating their treats.

These last two photos are of Austyn. She's getting so big so fast. Yesterday the girls got out their capes I made them for Christmas, and I came out of my bedroom to find that LeiLani had put her cape on Austyn, and put her in the swing. As you can tell from the photo, Austyn didn't mind one bit.

This next photo is where Austyn played the entire time we had preschool. She is such a good baby. Always happy and content. I could tell she was getting tired though, so I went to make her food before laying her down, and when I turned around she was asleep. I wish I had gotten a photo, but I didn't want her to sleep too long and not be able to feed her.

Classic double chin action going on.

Friends

2011-04-20T14:27:00.000-07:00

Last week my good friends Criscell and Alissa came to visit. I was horrible at taking pictures, so I'll have to get the ones Criscell took and post them later. I did get a couple from dinner we had at my house Sunday night.

I love these two girls. Life was so much fun when they lived here, and it just brings back good memories to think about the two of them. They got in around 10pm Thursday night. Friday we went to Music Makers and had a picnic at the park. The afternoon was spent playing and visiting. Criscell was so sweet to watch all of the kids including a friend of mine's kids that I had volunteered to watch earlier. It was Travis and I's anniversary, and she refused to let me stay home to babysit. So sweet. Criscell's husband got into town Friday night, and they got to enjoy the weekend together. Definitely an uncommon case because the two of them have been apart all year while Caleb has traveled all over the country rotating in podiatry.

Saturday the girls got to go to Super Saturday while the boys watched kids. Then Criscell and Caleb went on date night with us. Our wonderful friend Leah watched all the kids so we could go out. Thanks again Leah. You're awesome!

Sunday was fun with church and Criscell and Alissa got to catch up with old friends. That night we had dinner together with our good friends the Hamar's. I just love the wonderful experience we've had being in medical school, and the great friendships we've made along the way. I feel so blessed to know these people, I can's even describe it.

Monday was low key because we had sick kids. LeiLani had a stomach bug the day everyone got here, and passed it on to Myli, Caysja and Cam. We did however, manage to squeeze swimming at San Lagos pool into the day's activities.

Monday night we had pizza, put the kids down and watched a movie.

Tuesday morning was a 1/2 happy day. Criscell and Alissa stayed until 2pm. We went to the park and then had lunch at Kristy's, but soon the time came for the two of them to leave. It was a blessing in disguise though. Wednesday morning Travis and I both woke up with the stomach bug and were miserable all day.

I'm so grateful for my friends. I'm even more grateful that they would travel 16 hours to come visit Kristy and I. You definitely feel loved when sacrifices like that are made. Making that trek with 5 kids makes it even more amazing. Thanks you guys for coming. I had a wonderful time. Love you and miss you.

All the kids before Sunday dinner.
Back-Front: Miah, Halle, Myli, LeiLani, Crew, Teancum, Caysja, Noah and Ian.

The three most beautiful ladies in the world
L-R: Criscell, Me, Kristy and Alissa

Below is just a random picture. I fed the kids lunch the other day, and left the room for a second. When I came back, this is how Teancum was sitting in his chair. I love this kids. He cracks me up. Such a stud!

Things Are Coming Together

2011-04-05T10:37:00.000-07:00

This blog is going to be really boring because I don't have any pictures to share. I just wanted to write down some things that are happening.

Things seem to be coming together nicely for our move. For those of you who know me, I'm kind of crazy when it comes to planning. I plan out everything in my mind, and love seeing it fall into place. Well, I can't just sit around and wait until May to find a house, and finalize everything so we can move in June. I tried, but I couldn't. I was going crazy. Well, I have been looking at pictures of homes, and speaking to people in the ward we want to live in trying to find a place to live. Well I fell in love with a particular home on the very first day, and have not been able to forget about it. I've been patiently waiting:) for things to come together with it. Another couple was in front of us to look at it, and rent it, so I had to just wait. I despise waiting. I'm not the waiting type. Ask Travis. It drives him nuts. Well, finally last week we got word that the house was being opened up to us if we still want it. I can't explain the overwhelming joy that came over me when I received the email. I was like a little kid on Christmas morning. I was Giddy, squeaky, jumping up and down. It was awesome! I filled out the rental application and receive word last night that it's ours. I'm so relieved. It's absolutely perfect for what we need. We can move in when we want to and everything. It just fits our plans so well. Plus, it has this massive yard where the kids can play and it has a fence. (None of the yards in Michigan have fences) It also has a huge basement with a huge linoleum floored room so the kids can ride their bikes down there in the freezing winter. I am overflowing with excitement, joy and gratitude. I know this seems trivial and materialistic and it is. It's still humbling though to be so blessed with the things we want. Notice the word want there. This home is not a need, but it's something I wanted very much, and the Lord made it happen. Now I feel like I can sit back and enjoy the last two months. I have everything planned, and now all that's left to do is pack. Unfortunately that is something I have to wait to do. I can't live in an empty house with no possessions for the next two months. However I pack in a day or two, so no big deal. I just wanted to write down everything I've been thinking and feeling the past month or so, and breathe a huge sigh of relief that it's done, and I can really enjoy our final days in AZ.

Week Off

2011-04-05T10:32:00.001-07:00

This last week we were up in Round Valley visiting Travis' family. Travis had the whole week off. It's always fun when we go up there. His Mom and Dad live in the mountains and it's beautiful and peaceful up there. I was able to get some scrapbooking done too, so that's nice. Travis loves riding horses, roping, and working outside while he's there. We were also able to see our new nephew Riggin. He's absolutely beautiful. Charly and Bryce have such beautiful babies. It was so fun to see them and hang out with cousins. I was horrible and didn't take any pictures of the week except the ones below.

One day Travis and Drew split wood and piled it up. The kids wanted to help, so we put sweaters and hats on them. Teancum looked so cute. I was in the office, and saw them drive up in Drew's truck. I couldn't help but take a photo. I poked my camera through the blinds, and this was the result. Doesn't little tank look so cute in his camo gear?

Adorable!

New Car

2011-03-16T14:11:00.000-07:00

Well we finally bought a new car. We've been talking about it and looking for awhile now. We sold our other car last week, so we have been down to one car. It hasn't been too bad, but we didn't have to do it for very long. We found it yesterday, and we're very happy. It has everything we wanted plus a couple extras we don't need, but are definitely a plus. Travis likes it because it's all black and that's what he wanted. It is the perfect vehicle for our growing family. Hopefully we keep it forever because I really like it.

Last weekend my niece got baptised. It was so fun to be there and get to spend time with family. On our way home the girls fell asleep, and this is how they looked....

Aren't they so cute?

Thatcher

2011-03-03T16:48:00.000-08:00

This past week I was able to go to Thatcher for a few days. My friend Michelle is getting married and it was her bridal shower. A bunch of friends from High School were there and it was fun catching up. I also did something new and cut my hair. I don't have pictures because I didn't take any with my camera, my sister-in-law did. When she emails them to me I'll post them up. Joni did my hair and I love it. Poor girl, it took her four hours, and she's in the last trimester of her pregnancy. She's such a sweet heart and I trust her completely, so it was wonderful that it worked out for her to do it. She lives in Texas, so I was so glad she was visiting while I was there.

I've also started P90X. I'm not gonna lie, it pretty much consumes me. I'm doing the whole program, meal plan and everything. I'm happy with the results I've had so far, and I'm about 5 weeks in. Only 8 more to go:) I'll post before and after pics when I'm completely finished. Hopefully there's a drastic difference or I'll be sad:) Travis has been doing it with me. I don't think I could do it by myself. It's hard, but I love the energy I have when I start getting into shape. I swear it's my lifeline being a mother.

Here's a funny little tidbit. When I was in Thatcher visiting my family, LeiLani got in trouble and was starting to argue, so I put her in the corner. I was making dinner for a friend of mine, and my Mom came in asking where LeiLani was. I told her she was in the corner. I had forgotten about her, but she was only there for like 5 minutes. Well, it was really quiet so I went into the other room and found her like this....

Late Post

2011-02-16T17:16:00.000-08:00

A few weeks ago, my wonderful life long friends Megan and Shari took me to lunch for my birthday. I love getting together with these girls. We all grew up together in Thatcher and graduated high school together, and now we're married and starting our families together. It has been such a fun ride, and I feel so blessed to have been able to share it with these girls. I love you both. Thanks again.

Me, Shari & Megan

Drumroll please......

2011-02-14T13:37:00.000-08:00

We are moving to Detroit, Michigan. Travis had the match today, and we got in to our #1 choice. Travis will be doing his traditional internship in Detroit. We are both so unbelievably excited. Travis has worked so hard, and we couldn't be prouder of him. I can't believe the journey of Medical school is almost over, but we're looking forward to the new adventures we will have in the next phase of our medical journey. Congratulations babe! You definitely earned it.

Last, but not least. Happy Valentine's Day! I am married to the most wonderful man in the universe. I can't believe it was almost 6 years ago that we began our lives together. I love you more today than any other. I will love you always. To my handsome sweetheart, the man I want to grow old with; I LOVE YOU!

Birthday Celebration

2011-01-29T07:29:00.000-08:00

I had a wonderful Birthday this year. Everyone went out of their way to make me feel special, and it was definitely noticed. It started a week early with my friend Criscell coming to visit. You know all about our wonderful time in the previous post.

My day started off with taking the kids to the Cerreta Candy Co. for the girl's preschool field trip. They always enjoy the tour. Then, we came home, and my friend Megan brought pizza to us for lunch. After pizza, we went to Krispy Kreme for my free dozen donuts. I love that they do this for your birthday. We visited there with the kids for awhile. Thank you so much Megs. You're awesome! Then, I did some laundry while I waited for Travis to get home. He had been working in Mesa, and coming home on the weekends, but decided to make the trip home for my birthday. What a sweetheart. My friend Kristy volunteered to watch the kids for us so we could go to dinner. Travis brought home roses and took me to Cheesecake Factory. We love that place. Afterward, we picked up the kids, put them to bed, and had a romantic evening together. It was probably the best birthday I have ever had.

Thanks to everyone who called, sent cards and gifts, and made me feel so loved. I have the best family and friends on the planet. I love you all.

Hello Friend!

2011-01-29T07:15:00.000-08:00

I got the best birthday present in the world this year. My friend Criscell came to see me. We had so much fun. She was only here for about four days, so we had a lot to squeeze in. Neither of us had our older children (thank you so much to our Mom's for watching the big kids). With both of us only having our babies, we were free to party.

I picked her up at the airport on Monday and we headed to lunch. Then, we drove to Glendale and did some grocery shopping before going to our friend Kristy's. We stayed and visited with her until a little after 11pm and came home. One of the bright sides to having babies is that they sleep late. We were able to sleep until 9:30 every morning. I can't remember the last time I did that. It was awesome!

On Tuesday we went to the Mall, ate at the food court, and went to Down East. Then, we went shopping at Nordstrom Rack. That night was Bunco at my house, and so many people came to see our wonderful friend. There were 19 people, and the last one left around 11pm. I was so glad everyone came to see her.

Wednesday was a more laid back day. We went and visited our friend Sara and her beautiful twin girls who are almost 8 months old. (I can't believe they are that old already) After visiting with her, we went to the awesome pool at San Lagos and sat in the hot tub for about two hours. Then, we spent the afternoon letting the little ones sleep and watching a couple movies. That night, we went back to our friend Kristy's and stayed until 11pm again.

Thursday we got up and headed to the Outlet malls to do some shopping. Kristy was able to come with us kid free (thanks Joanna, you're awesome!) We ate there and ended up staying until about 3:30 that afternoon. Then, we came home to feed kids, and we had a great girls night planned. We ate at Cheesecake Factory and then went to a movie. It was our last night together so after the movie we came home, had a bowl of ice cream, and stayed up late talking. It was the perfect end, to the perfect week. Sadly, Friday morning came to soon and I had to take Criscell back to the airport:(

It was sad to say goodbye, but hopefully she'll be back in a few months to visit again. Thanks again for coming Criscell. It was so much fun having you. Also, thanks to everyone for coming to all our fun activities and catching up with our friend.

Our Awesome Bunco Group!
L-R & Back-Front
Jeni, Kristy, Joanna, Alyssa, Jill, Jesica, Stephanie, Danielle, Michelle, Courtney, Me, Nicole, Angle, Megan, Criscell and Brenda. There were also Megan and Jen and Michelle. Megan and Jen were nice enough to take pictures for us.

Me, Kristy & Criscell at the Outlets

Our Girl's Night at Cheescake Factory
L-R
Carlie, Courtney, Criscell, Me, Sara & Jessy

Sad morning dropping Criscell off at the airport.

Whoops!

2011-01-08T20:22:00.000-08:00

It's official. Austyn has had her 1st hair cut. I always cut the little tail off of my girls hair when they're a few months old. Well with Teancum, we just buzzed him, and his hair is so thick. I decided to do the same thing with Austyn since she's only 3 months old. Well, I didn't mean to get it as short as I did. Oh well. That's what head bands are for I guess. I still think she's cute. Even if she does look like a boy now:) Sorry little one. Good thing you don't know the difference.

Before

After

Last But Not Least

2011-01-05T14:35:00.001-08:00

The month of December was jam packed for us. There are about six more posts below this one documenting everything we did. (I won't be offended if you don't go back and read all of them). To end the month, we all got sick (except for Travis......lucky) I started it by getting strep. Then, the kids got this aweful virus where they ran fevers for six days, and are left with a terrible cough and congestion. Everyone is finally on the mend. The kids are still congested, but atleast they're back to sleeping at night. The girls were being so cute laying next to each other on the couch because they both didn't feel good.

This was taken after they got back from riding their bikes with Dad.

Teancum is turning into such a little ham. Whenever we bring out the camera, he starts posing.

Cheese

Love this kids

Christmas at Home

2011-01-05T14:27:00.000-08:00

We didn't take our Christmas from Mark & Lenna to Thatcher with us. We didn't want to pack it all there and pack it all back. The kids loved having two Christmas'. I was sick that night, so there aren't any pictures of me. Lenna went all out again for all of us. We're so spoiled. We love our Nana, Papa & Andrew.

Lenna gave us dehydrated meals to try for our food storage.

She also gave us garden seeds

This was a box of activities and games to do as a family for a year.

She gave us a big Book of Mormon to read as a family and you document when you start and finish each time.

She gave this beautiful picture and quote to Travis

This was Myli's birthday present. She made this back pack, and inside was a bunch of coloring and activities she can do.

Andrew also got me a layout book for scrapbooking. Lenna made me a bunch of premade cards she scrapbooked and put them all in a box with envelopes. She's awesome!

Myli's Birthday

2011-01-05T14:24:00.000-08:00

Myli did get a little slided for her birthday this year. There was just so much going on. There wasn't a lot of time to fit in a party. We did make cupcakes and sing though. We got her a bike too, and she loves it. She's wanted one for so long, and is already so good at riding it. Myli, we just want you to know how much we love you. You bring such joy and laughter into our home. We couldn't have asked for a better Christmas present the year you were born. We love our sweetie pie!

Christmas Morning

2011-01-05T13:49:00.000-08:00

This is what Christmas morning looked like. I couldn't fit everything in, but what do you expect when you're doing Christmas for 26 people. It was so much fun. My battery was running out, so I couldn't take pictures of everything. I'll try to remember all the gifts that I don't have pictures of and name them at the end.

Teancum saying cheese

Myli and her crazy hair in the morning

The kids seeing the presents for the 1st time

Dawn's girls opening their gift from Shawn & Nicole. Nicole made all the girls purses that were so cute.

Shawn & Nicole made a bowl & mug for my dad. They made a calendar for my Mom

Grandma & Bonka made Teancum & Boston trains with their names on them. They were awesome.

The girls & Teancum got boots from Santa

I made Paxton a cape

I made Kaybri a scripture bag

Dawn made the girls necklaces

Dawn also made Teancum a cape. I love it.

Justin made Bryson a marshmallow gun

Cassie made April and Elizabeth these cute dress up skirts. She also made bows and headbands that were adorable.

I made the girls & Teancum a cape also.

A nike football from Mom & Dad

I converted Justin's Football, Baseball, Wedding and couple of other videos from VHS to DVD

I made Cassie Earrings

Mom & Dad did shadow boxes of all the boy's eagle to hang in their office. Mom made decorations for all the daughter in laws. Dad made me a necklace. Mom & Dad gave everyone another shadow box of the new Gila Valley Temple. Dawn & Cory gave us a picture of the temple on a board with our anniversary on it. Cory made Travis a spinning target out of 1/2" metal. Travis loves it. I made Mom & Dad a scrapbook. Mom made Dad a scrapbook too. I made PJ's for our family and Justin's family. Cassie made a decoration and jewelry hanger for Danae. Justin made Mom & Dad a picnic table. Lamar made Shawn & Dad a potatoe gun. Mom & Dad made jewelry boxes for all the grand kids. Danae made a board with hanger and tin for magnets with vinyl lettering for Nicole. Shawn made Jake a marshmallow gun. Shawn & Nicole made a game for Cory & Dawn. Justin made a game for Lamar. Dawn gave my Mom a bunch of home made cards. Cory gave Dad a spinning target also. I think that's everything. If I forgot something, please don't be offended. A wonderful Christmas that will be remembered forever.

Minute To Win It Christmas Style

2011-01-05T13:29:00.001-08:00

This year for Christmas my whole family got together for an "Old Fashion Christmas". All of our gifts were home made. Everyone made for Mom & Dad and then all the siblings draw families. It was so much fun to be together for a few days. One of the activities we did in the afternoon was a Christmas Minute to Win it. My sister-in-law Dawn put it all together. There were 10 different challenges, and it was so much fun. I had to take pictures of everything. Everyone got into it, including the kids. Thanks again Dawn. It was amazing.

Team 1

Team 2 (the cool team:))

Kelsey & Bryson again Shayci & Tylie.

Paxton with a little jingle in his trunk

Elizabeth with her jingle in her trunk

LeiLani & Myli rolling the ornament to one another and hanging it on a wreath

Me trying to arrange the boxes ofjingle bells from least to most

Lamar vs Shawn blowing the Christmas cards to the edge of the table and getting it to hang without falling off.

As you can see, Lamar won

Travis with vaseline on his nose. His challenge was to hold the string in his mouth, and get the puffy ball to stick on his nose.

Travis vs Justin

Travis is the WINNER!!!

I guess 2nd place is OK

Bryson and Shayci tried, and Bryson got it to stick

Nicole vs Danae trying to hang candy canes using only their mouth

steady......steady

I was trying to take a picture of Nicole winning, but Dawn had to get in the way:) Sorry Nicole

Dad & Shawn having to balance a yard stick on the end of a wrapping paper roll, and hang ornaments on both sides, and get it to stand up. No one completed this challenge. I blame it on a lop sided roll:)

Justin vs Lamar

You had to put 5 Nuts on a stick, and then slowly stack them on top one another sliding them off the stick one at a time

Shayci was awesome at it. Cory was mean though and blew an air horn in her ear, right as she was getting the last one on there. What a mean Dad:)

Good Job Bryson!

Temple Lights

2011-01-05T13:27:00.000-08:00

This year we went to the Temple Lights with Travis' sister Melissa and her kids. Melissa also brought Andrew, Travis' little brother with her. It was so fun having them here. The kids love being together and they play so well. It's always fun to have them come visit. I love the temple lights. It's something I will miss about living in the valley.

Preschool Christmas Party

2011-01-05T13:16:00.001-08:00

The Christmas Party for preschool was at our house this year. The girls decorated Gingerbread Houses. We also did a gift exchange, and had hot cocoa. I took a lot of pictures and at the end, we put the memory card in our TV so the kids could see everything they had done. It was so much fun. We have such a great group of gals and Moms. We love it.

Kylie

Averi

Myli

LeiLani

Kylie & Jamie

Me & The Girls

Everyone hard at work. It took me a while to figure out our house because there were five in all, so the girls were fascinated with Kylie's.

Tilly and her Mom

Tilly's House

Kylie's House

Averi's house.

Our House

The gift exchange

This is a random picture, but I said I would take a picture of Austyn in her blessing dress and I finally did. Isn't she gorgeous. I love this little girl.

Thanksgiving

2010-12-01T10:58:00.000-08:00

Thanksgiving was so fun for us this year. We spent it at Travis' parents house. We just love going up there. The mountains are beautiful, and you just get to enjoy one another's company. It was also neat because Travis' entire family was in town for Thanksgiving. It's not often that we get to all be together because one of his sister's and her family live in Idaho. It was a lot of fun. We helped make tags for gifts the R.S. is giving in Lenna's ward. We of course helped with Thanksgiving dinner. The boys got wood and went shooting. The girls mostly visited and tended to the kids. We made tamales and took family pictures. It was really a fun time. We love you guys. Thanks Mark and Lenna for letting us stay.

Here we are making the tags.

Teancum was obsessed with marbles. His sweet older cousin Kinsley put everything together and played with him forever. Such a sweetheart.

The girls colored and played outside. They tried to play some board games, but they're still a little young. Here they are with their cousins Meghan and Creed.

Nicole is such a little mother. She's the sweetest girl I know, and she took such good care of Austyn. We love our little Colie.

This picture describes Myli to a T. She's a total mess and we love her.

This picture also shows her attitude.

This kid cracks me up. Look at that chubby face.

It's been almost six years, and my husband is still such a hottie. I could just stare at him all day long. Love you babe.

Myli being sassy again.

Such a good looking group of kids. Even if I do say so myself.

Austyn's Newborn Photos

2010-11-29T13:50:00.000-08:00

My friend Kristie offered to take Austyn's baby pictures. She does such a great job. I'm so glad she asked me because I love them. Here's our beautiful baby Tin Tin (that's what Teancum calls her).

Finally Catching Up

2010-11-22T09:38:00.001-08:00

I am finally getting around to catching up on the last two months of my life since Austyn was born. It has been wonderful. She is a great baby and we love her. She is 8 weeks old, and the last two nights, she has slept for 9 hours. I hope she keeps it up because then I can go to running group again. She is a great baby. She's so sweet and precious. I went to the Dr. and everything is great and normal. Austyn is smiling and trying to laugh. It mostly just sounds like she has the hiccups because she gets so excited, but it's cute. I'm really feeling overwhelmed at how blessed our little family is. It's humbling because I really don't think we deserve, and I am so grateful to the Lord for these wonderful blessing he has given me. I feel so much peace being a member of the church, and having an eternal family. What a great gift of peace and joy.

I have posted about 7 or 8 posts below this, so I don't expect anyone to read them all. I just did it for journaling purposes so I would have it.

One thing I do want to blog about, but I don't have pictures. Our friends Dave and Danielle did this great date night for us on Friday. There were about 9 couples, and they did it in their back yard. It was a formal, five course meal with games in between each course. When you first arrived at the house, you were given a card with your name on it, and five numbers at the bottom. The numbers were chairs you were going to sit in for each course. That way you got to sit and visit with every couple throughout the night. So much work went into this evening by the two of them. They didn't let anyone bring anything, so they did all the cooking and decorating, etc. Danielle is 7 months pregnant by the way. Crazy lady:) It was amazing. Their backyard was absolutely beautiful. Dave has done a lot of work getting it landscaped and looking so good. They hung lights up above and it created a great ambiance. I can't say enough about the evening. I thoroughly enjoyed it. A great memory was made, and I am so grateful we have such wonderful friends who include us in these wonderful things. Thanks again Danielle and Dave. You guys are awesome!

Christmas Wreath

2010-11-22T09:35:00.000-08:00

I taught a segment of a class for our ward this past week. My segment was on Homemade Christmas. I thought it would be fun to make a homemade Christmas Wreath since I had never done it before, and wreaths are so cute. I'm personally kind of proud of it because it's the first craft I have ever done completely on my own without copying someone else or anything. I think it turned out great. Check it out.

Halloween

2010-11-22T09:30:00.000-08:00

Halloween was eventful as always. Between playgroup, preschool, midwestern and the ward trunk or treat, we dressed our kids up four times. They looked so cute. LeiLani and Myli were witches. Old Navy had a smokin deal on costumes. I got these for $2.50 a piece. I was pumped. Teancum was a giraffe. We got this from Aunt Melissa and it sits in our dress up box in the playroom. He looked so cute. We also had our friends invite us over on Halloween for dinner, and we dressed up the kids again, and let them trick or treat from her candy bowl. It was so much fun.

He even has the face for it:)

Check out the manly chest:)

Austyn's Baby Blessing

2010-11-22T09:21:00.001-08:00

On October 17, 2010 we blessed Austyn. It was such a great day. It was a great weekend actually. It was Timeout for Women and I went with my mother-in-law and my three sister-in-laws. We were missing Krystal because she lives in Idaho. We missed you Krystal.

It was the perfect weekend. I was so uplifted after the talks, and Travis gave Austyn the most beautiful blessing. I'm so glad I have a husband who is worthy to hold the Priesthood. I also love how in tune with the spirit he is. I'm always so touched whenever he blesses our children. He's a wonderful man. We love him more than anything.

Austyn was great for the blessing. She just layed there quietly in their arms. Afterwards, we took pictures outside and went back to our house for a luncheon. I didn't take pictures of the luncheon. I also didn't take pictures of Austyn by herself in her blessing dress. I will though before she grows out of it. I'll post those later.

Family shot. Everyone was there except Krystal's family, and Brian and the kids. We missed you guys.

Here is our reality. This was the best shot we could get of our family with everyone smiling.

This was the best shot we could get with everyone standing normal......sort of.

I wish I could have got her looking at the camera. She looked so beautiful. It was the perfect day. I love being a member of the church. Such a wonderful blessing.

Tonsils

2010-11-22T09:07:00.000-08:00

LeiLani got her tonsils out two days before we blessed Austyn. She got it done on October 15, 2010. We had to be at the hospital at 6am, so my wonderful friend Jill came over at 5:30 to watch my kids. She's an amazing woman. Thanks again Jill. We love you.

LeiLani was such a brave little girl. I can't believe how well she did. The poor thing was pretty upset when she woke up from the anesthesia, but you would be too if you went under feeling great and happy, and you woke up in a strange place feeling all sorts of pain and your parents were no where to be seen. They wouldn't let us back until she was awake, so the nurse was there when she woke up. Poor girl didn't know what was going on. She did great for the next few days afterward. It was sad just seeing her lying around, but it was kind of nice to have some quiet without her talking all the time:) j/k. On Tuesday she started getting whiny and not wanting to drink much, so the next week was a challenge getting her to eat, drink and get over whining about everything. All in all it was a good experience, and such a blessing that she didn't start being a handful until after the blessing was over with. She was a tough girl, and everything has healed perfectly.

Holding her gown, pillow case and hat

All dressed and ready to go. If she only knew what was about to happen.

Silly girl. So much fun.

Here she is after the surgery. We had to wait for about a half hour to make sure she wasn't gonna throw up or have any problems.

Trying to smile for the picture.

Teancum's Sleep Habits Lately

2010-11-22T09:02:00.000-08:00

It seems I'm not the only one who's tired all the time having a new baby in our home. Teancum has been falling asleep everywhere. I love his double chin. Travis said he looks just like him when he was a baby. Love this kid:)

Austyn's 1st Bath

2010-11-22T08:58:00.000-08:00

Here are pictures of Austyn's 1st bath. She wasn't too crazy about it because she was cold, but I just love their little newborn cry.

Computer Down

2010-11-07T21:10:00.000-08:00

Sorry it's been so long since I've posted. Our computer crashed and I had to buy a new hard drive and install it. It's was a lot more complicated, but I won't bore you with details. Let's just say I know a lot more about computers now than I ever cared to know. However, we didn't have to pay anyone to fix it, so I'm happy. I have a lot to update, but it's late and I need to get to sleep. I'll update tomorrow on everything that's happened in the last six weeks. Can you believe Austyn is six weeks old already? Crazy how fast time flies. Stay tuned:)

Our New Baby Austyn

2010-09-29T15:07:00.001-07:00

I'm finally getting around to posting. Sorry for those of you who have been waiting awhile.

Well it was quite the event bringing baby Austyn into this world. As most of you know, I wanted to have this baby naturally. I've always wanted to have a natural birth. I was adamant to have one this time because I've always had epesiotomy's or torn with all my children. I wondered if I could feel everything, would I still tear or have to be cut. Well, the answer to that question is yes, but it's still nice to have the experience.

I woke up Thursday morning and had my first non braxton hicks contraction around 7:45am. I wasn't in pain, but I called Travis at work and told him to pay attention to his phone. I took the girls to preschool and started cleaning my house. I wanted to do most of my laboring at home, so I had been putting off cleaning because I wanted something to do while I was in labor. I had a Dr.'s appt at 11:20, so I was hoping she could tell me if I was actually in labor or not. Travis came home around 11 and we went to the dr. She told me I was at a 5 and 90% efaced and my water was bulging. She asked if I wanted to go to the hospital, and I said no, I wanted to labor at home as long as I could.

I called my Mom and Lenna to come down. We picked up the girls from preschool. Thanks again Lindsey for keeping them longer and feeding them lunch. I also called my friend Danielle who offered to watch the kids. We went home and ate lunch and dropped the kids off at Danielle's. I wasn't in a lot of pain, so we got some last minute errands done. We went grocery shopping and to the bank. My contractions had gotten harder since my Dr.'s appt, but I still was walking and talking through everything and not very miserable.

Once my Mom and Lenna got here, we went and walked around Costco. Lenna had some things to get, and my contractions were more consistent and intense if I walked. After Costco, we went to the hospital to check my progress. Travis thought we went too soon, especially since I wasn't really in any pain. They checked me again and I was still at a 5-6 and 90% efaced and my water was wanting to break. I asked if I could go home. Luckily my nurse had delivered her 2nd baby at home and was very supportive of me wanting to do it naturally. She said I needed to be as comfortable as possible, so she said if it was ok with my dr. they would send me home. My Dr. said yes, so we went home.

I walked through the door around 8:10pm. My friend Jessy had picked the kids up from Danielle and brought them home for bed. She was going to stay with them through the night if needed. I have such wonderful friends. You're all Awesome! Thank you so much for your help. After we got home, we sent Jessy home. My contractions had gotten even more intense after the hospital, but still nothing unbearable.

Around 8:30pm I felt a kick and then the hardest contraction of my life. I hit the wall with my fist and then I couldn't move or talk. I wanted to labor in water when my contractions got intense because I had heard it helps with the pain. Not in my case, but I'm sure with other people. Plus, my bathtub isn't very deep, so maybe that's why. Anyways, I had Travis fill the bath and I called Jessy to come back and watch the kids. I had one more hard contraction before getting in the bath. They were getting pretty close together so I had to hurry and get it. I had two more in the bath and I told Travis we needed to go to the hospital. He asked, "Do you wanna go because you'll feel better being at the hospital, or because you're about to have a baby?" That was his way of asking whether or not I really needed to go, or did I just want to go so I could get the epidural. I told him I guess I could wait a little longer and got back in. I had one more in the bath, and realized they were like 2 minutes apart, and said we need to go. Travis had to help me out, dry me off, and get me dressed because I was in so much pain. Then, I told my Mom we needed to go and we all got in Lenna's car.

They gave me a paper with a phone number on it when I left the hospital. They told me to call that number when I was on my way back in, and they would have a room set up when I got there. I had my Mom call it because I was in too much pain to do anything. Well, my Mom called the hospital when we were pulling out of the drive way at 8:41pm and I had Austyn at 8:51pm.

We got in my mother-in-laws car and drove to the hospital. I was in the back seat with my mom crying and yelling in pain. I remember praying to Heavenly Father that I could make it through it. I was hurting so bad. We pulled through the ER round about and Travis ran inside to grab a wheel chair. He was ready to lift me out of the car but I was having a contraction. All of a sudden I had to push and started screaming. Travis lifted me out of the car and into the wheel chair. I was yelling at him to put me on the pavement because I needed to push. I was so mad when he put me in the chair. I was pulling down my shorts and screaming that I was pushing. Travis started running me inside and a nurse met us at the door and ran with us all the way to the elevator and up to labor and delivery. She had grabbed gloves just in case we needed to stop and deliver the baby. When I was pulling my shorts down Travis couldn't see the head or anything so he and Lenna were trying to pull them back up. When we got to the elevator, I started pulling them off again because I was pushing again, and right then, my water broke. I had pulled my shorts down, but my garments were still on, so that's how I looked all the way up to labor and delivery. I was just screaming and pushing the whole way. They got me in the room, and luckily there was a Dr. who had just finished delivering in the room next door. Travis and the nurse lifted me on the bed, and I pushed again. The Dr. told me I needed to hold my breath because I was losing all momentum screaming. (I forgot that you hold your breath when you push). On the next contraction I held my breath and pushed. The Dr. told me to slow down because I was tearing. I thought, easier said than done. I did one more push and the baby was here.

Start to finish my active labor was only 20 minutes, but the most painful 20 minutes of my life. I am so glad it was that short because I really didn't think I could do it much longer. Looking back I'm embarrassed about the whole situation, but I literally could not have acted any differently. I just hurt so bad. It was obviously well worth it, and I'm so glad to have the experience because now I know that I'll tear or have to be cut no matter what. I'm also so glad that I have such a calm husband. Travis kept his cool the whole time and knew exactly what to do. He even had to count to lift me on the bed because the nurse helping him had never lifted a patient before. He kept telling her, we need to lift her on the bed. He said it three or four times before she did what he was telling her.

Travis loves the story and spent the next hour calling family telling them what happened. He was just laughing the whole time he told it. Afterward he said, "We don't even need to embellish. It's a great story all by itself." I'm glad he could get so much pleasure from my pain:)

All in all Austyn is perfect and healthy. She does have a hole in her heart, and we have an appointment with the pediatric cardiologist on Monday. Right now she's not symptomatic, so we're not too concerned. Once we meet with the Cardiologist we'll have a better idea on what will happen from here. They'll either wait to see if the hole closes on it's own, or they'll eventually do surgery to correct it.

Thanks to everyone for all the phone calls and visits. We are so blessed to be surrounded by so many people who love us and are willing to help when needed.

Holding her for the 1st time.

Travis was still in his scrubs from work that day. Doesn't he look like a Dr. I have my very own McDreamy at home:)

Myli is obsessed with Austyn. It's so fun to watch her.

Teancum is adorable with her. He just points and said baby all the time. Then, he'll give her a kiss. It's so precious.

Going home from the hospital in the outfit Grandma gave her.

My Mom also got me this blanket. Isn't it beautiful.

I had to take a picture of her sleeping in the swing. I don't know if it's the hair or what, but I think she is so beautiful.

Preschool

2010-09-09T09:50:00.000-07:00

Well both of my girls started preschool last week. It's twice a week and they are loving it. I was so excited to find a group of wonderful women willing to do it. The kids love it, and it has worked out nicely. I also love that I can send Myli and LeiLani to the same one instead of juggling two different groups and schedules. I took the first week since I'm due soon. One bright side to not having the baby yet, I only have one kid for a couple hours twice a week and he naps the whole time. I haven't known what to do with all the free time. I'm project free so I've just been reading blogs/emails and watching Gilmore Girls. (I love that show) I have to admit it's been nice. I took a picture of the girls on their first day. They look so cute. I also had to get a picture of all three kids together. I love how Teancum is posing in the last photo. This kid cracks me up. He is always so happy and fun. I would have 20 just like him.

Look at that little man workin it. He's hilarious.

Projects, Projects, and More Projects

2010-08-26T08:16:00.000-07:00

Ever since the middle of June, I have been in project mode. I started gathering, printing and sorting pictures for my parents scrapbook, and I completed that on July 11th. Then, I took a week break to get things in order for my kids scrapbook, and I completed that on July 28th. All of the scrapbooking was done at my mother-in-laws and my Mom's. Thanks again to both of you for helping me so much.

After returning home in August I have been getting ready for Christmas. My family is doing an Old Fashioned Christmas this year, and your gifts have to be homemade. I decided to do PJ's for my family and my brother Justin's family. (We draw family's each year). Then, I decided to do extra gifts for the kids. I made reversible capes for my nephew Paxton, Teancum, LeiLani and Myli. I made a cute scripture bag for my neice Kaybri and it holds a book of mormon and has pockets sewn in the front for crayons, so she can color. I completed my last Christmas project on August 18th.

I then decided that I wanted to make a reversible car seat cover, and a new nursing shawl. I had a 40% off coupon to Hobby Lobby, so I figured I would use that. I've never made a car seat cover, so I'm really excited about how it turned out. I found a tutorial explaining how to do it on a website called:

www.sweetnsassygirls.com/2010/02/how-to-make-a-reversible-car-seat-covertentcanopy.html

Then, I made another nursing shawl out of my left over fabric from one of the sides of the car seat cover and finished that stuff last night. (Aug. 25th)

Those are the sewing projects I've done. I've also been putting together a preschool for Myli and LeiLani to do with a bunch of friends in our ward. It's coming together so nicely, but I did no t realize how much work went into preparing to do something like this. I've made posters, charts, puppets, birthday crowns, calendars, etc. I completed everything for that on August 24th.

Sorry about all the dates. This is pretty much the only journal I have, so I'm documenting it for those purposes.

Anyways, I am done and completely finished with any and all projects I had planned to do before the baby came. I even have her clothes all washed and put away. I'm only 35 weeks, but preschool and all our weekly activities start up next week, and I figure that will keep me busy until she comes. I'm really excited, and feel like a load has been lifted from my shoulders now that it's all done.

I took pictures of all the sewing stuff. Enjoy!

Car Seat Cover

View of the reversible side.

Nursing Shawl

Reversible Superwoman Princess Cape for girls.

Reversible Batman Superman Cape for boys.

Scripture Bag

PJ's in all the different patterns I used. The grey camo with red is for the boys in Justin's family. The bright pink is for the girls in Justin's family. The light pink is for the girls in my family, and the green camo is for the boys. I didn't want to take a picture of all ten pj's, so I just took one of each fabric.

LeiLani Turned 4

2010-08-20T16:46:00.001-07:00

I can't believe my oldest is 4. She's getting so big, and becoming more and more helpful everyday. I love that she wants to do things for me. Some of the things she does are unload the dishwasher, make her bed, bathe herself, dress herself, wash mirrors, get clothes from dryer, put clothes in washer, etc. I know these sound like little things, but they're huge when it's 5000 degrees outside and you're fat. I love that she's becoming more independent.

We had such a wonderful day. Travis was able to get home early, so he spent most of the day with us. In the afternoon we had her birthday party. We did pizza, ice cream and presents. Afterward, we went swimming at this awesome little pool down the street where a bunch of our friends live. Thanks again Alicia for letting us mooch off of you:) I didn't get a picture of all of her friends, so I'm going to name them all for journaling purposes. We had Kate and Charly, Conner, Gunner and Hudson, Andrew and Jack, Miah, Averi and Brynlee, Jenna and Katelynn, Dane and Johnny, Jackson and Tessa and Maci. LeiLani felt so special to be able to share her day with so many people we have grown to love while we've lived here. Thank you so much for making it a wonderful memory. Here's pictures of the birthday girl.

Happy Birthday Baby Girl. We Love You!

July

2010-08-02T07:56:00.000-07:00

Well, we're finally home from all of our travels. We have been in Thatcher for the last two weeks while Travis has been in Sierra Vista on a rotation. The week before we left, we had a lot of things to get done and catch up on. We were able to have a little fun though. My brother and sister-in-law Dawn came over to go to Cabelas, so we met them there. The girls love their cousins, so we took a couple pictures of the girls with Tiley. I think they look adorable.

While we were in Thatcher, I was on a mission to get caught up on all the kids scrapbooks. My Mom was a trooper and hung with me every step of the way. That meant that poor Bonka got stuck with the kids. They were absolutely fascinated with the Buggy. Anytime they were outside, they were climbing on the buggy. As you can see, they're all sweaty and couldn't care less.

Everyone came up for the Pioneer Day Celebration. It's huge in the Gila Valley. I look forward to it every year because you get to see old friends, and catch up. On Friday, a bunch of friends from High School got together for lunch. It was so great to see everyone, and realize that although we're all married, and have kids, nothing has changed. We still get crazy and silly when we're all together. It was so much fun.

Megan and Camille have been best friends since birth, and they were playing around trying to mimic a prom pose. Megan was laughing so hard and her belly was jiggling really bad, so we were all cracking up. Just another example of how nothing has changed:) I love you girls.

All of us together L-R: Shari, Me, Camille, Megan, Teonna and Kim. Thanks again girls. I miss you already.

Here we are at the fireworks. Don't pay attention to the expression on LeiLani's face. She really was fascinated and loved them. I wanted a picture because just before this, both girls were just laying back on their Daddy watching in awe at the fireworks and I thought it was so cute. My Mom wasn't supposed to get me in the photo.

Mom parents took the kids on an errand to drop off their car. They made a little pit stop at the dollar store to get bubbles and sunglasses. Don't they look so cute. Teancum is so much fun right now. He has the cutest little personality and is happy all the time.

Last, but not least, I cut the girls hair. I figured it was time, and I really want it to start thickening up. I love it. I don't like how long it takes me to fix it everyday, but I think they look so beautiful.

We even cut Teancum's hair. It was time. Isn't he so sweet.

I also forgot to mention, that I finished the kids scrapbook. I'm all caught up. In the month of July, I have scrapbooked 300 pages. Can you believe that? I never wanna scrapbook again:) I will, but I definitely need a break for a while. Not too long though because then I'll be way behind again and it will take another week of non stop scrapbooking to get caught up, and I just don't think that's a very good plan. Hope everyone had a great month like we did. Now we're home to stay, and ready to tackle a couple more projects before the baby comes.

What We've Been Up To

2010-07-13T14:33:00.000-07:00

I know it's been forever since I've posted. This post will be kind of boring since I don't have any pictures to post either. Travis took his Step 2 boards on July 1st and I couldn't be more thrilled. He had been studying day and night since the end of April, and I was ready for him to be done. Right after he finished his test, we drove to Round Valley for the 4th of July. Travis' family does a family reunion every year on the 4th. The girls did crafts, the boys fished and shot guns. Friday night was the alumni football game that Travis' brother organized. It was really fun, and the RV alumni smoked the other team, so that's always good. Saturday morning, we had breakfast and went and took family pictures. Then, we went to the parade, had lunch and went up to Nana and Papa's for the rodeo. The kids really enjoy it, and so do I. Since I'm fat, I was suffering from a lack of motivation to get out of my chair, so I don't have any pictures of the rodeo. Maybe I can get Aunt Melissa to email me the photos she took:) After the rodeo, we had a little family home evening. It was such a great weekend, and we really enjoyed being with family and in the cooler weather. Thanks again Lenna for putting it all together. Thanks to Krystal also for the cute craft she came up with. It's a cute little witches boot we painted and decorated to hang on our door for Halloween.

Starting Sunday afternoon, I scrapbooked for the next week straight. I put together this scrapbook for my parents for Christmas. I scrapbooked morning until night from Sunday afternoon to Sunday afternoon of the next week. It was a long project, and I couldn't have done it without my amazing mother-in-law Lenna, and my sweet sister-in-law Charly. They both were such a huge help, and I can't thank them enough. I love how it turned out, and all in all, I really enjoyed myself.

We came to Mesa Sunday night and stayed with Cory and Dawn because we needed to fix our car. Luckily it was an easy fix and the boys didn't have to spend too much time or money. Thanks again Cory for helping us. Then, we ran some errands and got home around 1pm. We unpacked, and got settled. Then, we went to Cabelas for the evening because they were doing some family night activities and my brother Cory and his family were coming over for it.

We've really had a busy couple of weeks, but had a lot of fun as well. The kids played outside all day everyday. They loved Nana's playhouse and swings. Daddy took them for rides on the pony and horse, and they loved helping their Papa feed the animals. We're so lucky to have such great family around.

Oh ya, Teancum is also walking. He's been walking for a couple weeks now, and he's really getting good at it. We love him so much. He's always happy and so easy going.

Now all I have to do is get my kids scrapbook caught up, and I can take a break from the crafts for a while. When I get some pictures, I'll post more. Hope everyone is having a great week.

Father's Day

2010-06-20T22:30:00.000-07:00

I love this man so much. I couldn't have asked for a better husband and father to my children. I'm so grateful to his parents that raised to him to be so hardworking, kind, humble, and ambitious. I know I've said this a hundred times, but I couldn't have wished up a better man to marry. He's everything I always wanted and more. He's the hero of our daughters world. They love him so much and get so excited when he gets home. He's so great to play with them, and teach them at every opportunity. I know our daughters will bring home great husbands because they'll have had the supreme example of how a woman should be treated. They won't want to disappoint Daddy. I hope Teancum embraces his father's perfect example and grows up to be just like him. Thank you honey for all your hard work. We love you so much. Our family would be nothing without you. Happy Father's Day!

Funny Kids

2010-06-17T07:59:00.000-07:00

The other day, I asked Myli to go get my brush so I could brush her hair, well she came back looking like this.

I found Teancum like this on the couch the other day, and I thought it was so cute. Typical man:)

When I send the girls outside, I'll put Teancum out there too in his exersaucer. The last couple times I've had them out there, I'll hear him crying, and I'll go out, and he'll be on his hands holding his body up, and only his feet are still touching the exersaucer. I figure he's been trying to get out, and when he falls, he catches himself, and then cries til I come get him. Well I finally figured out what he's been doing. He's leaning clear out of the exersaucer to the ground to pick up rocks, and then he pulls himself back in and puts them through this hold in his exersaucer. I had to get it on video because it was so hilarious. The first video is of him putting the rocks in the hole, and the second is of him picking up the rocks. Enjoy!

Memorial Day

2010-06-17T07:44:00.000-07:00

I know, I'm a little behind, since I'm just getting around to posting about Memorial Day. It was a fun day for us. We went over to Gilbert to hang out with my brothers and their families. We had a barbecue for lunch, and then played some water games outside. They did a relay with cups of water, and then a relay where they had to dress in basketball shorts and run. The kids really had a good time. After that, everyone got in a huge water fight. It was funny. All the dad's were talking on the porch, and next thing you know, they're soaking wet. I posted pictures of it all. After the water fight, we played one last game of water baseball. Then, we went and swam at the neighbors house, and came back to play games. All in all it was a fun day, and a great way to spend Memorial Day.

Lining up for the first water game. Everyone looks so innocent and sweet.

The fight is on

The dad's thought the fight was over, and then Shayci decides to get Uncle Justin

Justin running after Shayci.....she's seem to be quite a bit faster than him since she's not in the picture:)

He finally caught her

payback time:)