...and so comes love

us lately...

2011-10-27T16:25:00.000-07:00

Gone Blue

2011-03-08T20:30:00.001-08:00

The Boys are true blue after all of the JIMMER MANIA hype. It was a fun Basketball Season...The boys became BYU fans. Do you think there is any hope for these guys to cheer for RED someday?

You Smile, I Smile

2011-03-05T08:52:00.001-08:00

I realized something the other day as I was kissing Tyler out the door. He was headed to his friend's home to play for the afternoon, and as a typical mother, I offered up some tips for him. Okay, in all actuality, I ordered him to do the following: Say "thank you" and "please", be nice to your friend's mother...and listen to and obey her, be careful, be polite, help clean up, and then from out of nowhere....a tidbit of advice from my childhood came back to me...."SMILE!" My Mother used to always tell me to smile. I am not sure if many moms do that, but my Mom always did. And I smiled, a lot. I started thinking about this simple advice and how truly valuable it is. I decided to google the benefits of smiling...Here are some reasons to smile that I found:

1. Smiling Makes Us Attractive

We are drawn to people who smile. There is an attraction factor. We want to know a smiling person and figure out what is so good. Frowns, scowls and grimaces all push people away -- but a smile draws them in.

2. Smiling Changes Our Mood

Next time you are feeling down, try putting on a smile. There's a good chance you mood will change for the better. Smiling can trick the body into helping you change your mood.

3. Smiling Is Contagious

When someone is smiling they lighten up the room, change the moods of others, and make things happier. A smiling person brings happiness with them. Smile lots and you will draw people to you.

4. Smiling Relieves Stress

Stress can really show up in our faces. Smiling helps to prevent us from looking tired, worn down, and overwhelmed. When you are stressed, take time to put on a smile. The stress should be reduced and you'll be better able to take action.

5. Smiling Releases Endorphins, Natural Pain Killers and Serotonin

Studies have shown that smiling releases endorphins, natural pain killers, and serotonin. Together these three make us feel good. Smiling is a natural drug.

6. Smiling Lifts the Face and Makes You Look Younger-- if this aint a reason to smile then...

The muscles we use to smile lift the face, making a person appear younger. Don't go for a face lift, just try smiling your way through the day -- you'll look younger and feel better.

7. Smiling Makes You Seem Successful

Smiling people appear more confident, are more likely to be promoted, and more likely to be approached. Put on a smile at meetings and appointments and people will react to you differently.

8. Smiling Helps You Stay Positive

Try this test: Smile. Now try to think of something negative without losing the smile. It's hard. When we smile our body is sending the rest of us a message that "Life is Good!" Stay away from depression, stress and worry by smiling.

9. Smiling is the best advice for kids

Smiley kids are just plain cute. :)

I realize more and more each day that I have a very wise Mother. She knew what she was doing. I do feel like smiling made me a really happy kid. I am still a grinner. Quite regularly my cheeks hurt. But look at all the benefits! If even one of these reasons to smile benefited my life in some way or at some point, then it is advice worth passing on! So try to SMILE more often today. Smile at everyone you see. Even smile to yourself. Oh and tell your kids to smile too!

What advice do you give your kids? What did your Mother used to tell you to remember when you left the house?

All We Need....

2011-03-03T09:54:00.000-08:00

As I was dropping off my eight year old son to his very first Cub Scout Meeting, I looked out at my handsome boy's face and couldn't believe how fast the time has flown by. I hate it. It truly seems like we brought him home from the hospital yesterday. He is so grown, yet still so pure and full of light. How do I keep that light of love, of hope, of promise, alive and bright? When kids grow up and become exposed to life, their little flames can sometimes dim. I do not want my children to ever lose their luster, not even an ounce of it. EVER.

Some people might say it is exposure to WORDLY things. Well guess what, we are living in the world. The world is beautiful. I don't blame the world. People from all walks of life grow up, and some start from the dirtiest, darkest places of the world and manage keep the light burning and rise above all their surrounding gloom to become successful, useful and happy adults. Others are blessed with loving parents and majestic opportunities, and then they simply throw it all away with a bad choice. We have seen it all haven't we?
I know that I can't tell Tyler who to be, or how to grow up and who to become....but I can LOVE him up. All arrows point to love in my mind. Of course we can teach them right from wrong, honesty, manners, charity, and many other gospel principles....but I feel like those things will only imprint on their hearts when taught with love. Love seems to be the answer for everything in my humble opinion.

When my son forgot to do his homework for a few nights in a row, I got angry and upset and I put pressure on my son to "grow up and be responsible". I look back and think that maybe all I did was tamper with his light. I definitely didn't make his light burn brighter that day. And to be honest, my actions made my own light go dim. Now, I only wish I could take that moment back. So, rather than push my kids to 'Be the Best' and to 'Act his Age'...I think I will encourage them to be themselves and to work hard, and then just LOVE them up as the children who they are. Love is the key.

So, in an attempt to start up my blogging again, I want to change the title of this blog. Maybe as I record and reflect on our little family on this digital journal, I will remember LOVE- is all we need.

**What do you think is the best thing to remember while raising children? How do you keep your home a haven?

Happy Valentine's Day!!!

2011-02-16T15:14:00.000-08:00

Valentine's Day was such a cheery day! Tyler turned 8 the day before on the 13th! Happy Happy Days for him! He gets to go to cub scouts this week for his first time, and will be baptized! We are so proud of our handsome little 2nd Grader! HAPPY BIRTHDAY TYLER!

snow days

2011-01-07T15:00:00.000-08:00

January 2011

Brett's 1st Birthday pictures...

2010-09-30T14:34:00.000-07:00

Our Baby....

2010-09-21T12:31:00.000-07:00

This is a very hard post to share. I am so sad to write the news of our 5th pregnancy, the news that we have lost our little number five. He was a boy. He was perfect. He is now a significant part of our family and I feel a deep desire to commemorate him by sharing his story.

On Saturday, September 4th...I had bleeding that was quite significant. Steve rushed me to the Emergency room. The doctors checked my cervix and thankfully it was closed and blood was not coming from it. The ultrasound revealed a perfectly healthy baby and no apparent loss of fluid. The baby was measuring a bit small, so they figured that maybe I was off on my due date and told me I was only about 16 weeks along. The diagnosis was a subchorionic hemorrhage. This happens in about 9% of pregnancies and if the hemorrhage is small, most women go on to have healthy deliveries. So they sent us home and on bedrest until we could visit with a High Rish OBGYN and do a more advanced ultra sound. We felt good and reassured that things would be fine.

Well, my appointment was Friday, September 10th and the High Risk Doctors took a look at me and measured the baby only at just barely 16 weeks again. This put fear in my mind as I knew I had to be at least 18 weeks along and that our little guy wasn't getting what he needed from the placenta. Then they took a look at the hemorrhage and informed me that it was indeed a subchorionic hemorrhage, but that it was very severe. They told us there was no way of knowing what would happen and told us that if it were to heal, things might be okay. They also said that if the blood continues to irritate the uterus, then I would cramp and contract and miscarriage would be inevitable. They would not give me anything to prevent a miscarriage because my pregnancy was under 20 weeks. I knew that with the size of my baby and with the mass of blood on the ultra sound screen that things might not be okay. I was so distraught and my intuitions were uneasy, emotional and deeply concerned. I became confused when the doctor told me that I simply needed to take it easy and didn't really need to be on bedrest. Steve and I both just felt helpless, there wasn't any advice or anything we could really do....other than to "take it easy."

Well, Steve and I were both exhausted after being in Dr. office for 3 hours, yep 3 hours. We came home, got our 4 rambunctious little boys fed and tucked in, and then my contractions began. Steve kept telling me to lay down, but the contractions were so painful that I felt an urge to move and walk them out....but they just kept coming. I did lay down from 7:00pm until we went into bed, and the contractions were just coming and going all through the evening.

We went into bed around midnight and that is when the contractions became very strong and frequent. I wanted an epidural because the pains and cramping were so intense and I thought for sure I would pass out. Contractions got worse and we knew that there was no hope. We called the doctor on call around 2:00 and got her voicemail. Then despite all of our efforts to hold on and keep our baby safe, our baby was born. I delivered our son still-born at about 2:45am. Steve and I felt so alone, so confused about what to do next, and in complete shock. The pain had subsided and I could finally breathe. I was exhausted and slowly sat down on my bed as I watched my husband weep as he looked at our still-born son. The phone rang, it was the doctor. Too late. She instructed us to come into Labor and Delivery and bring our baby. My sweet little sister Lindsey rushed over around 3:00am to stay with our sleeping boys.

The hospital experience was very much surreal. I do remember everything, but I don't like to remember it. Steve and I were both very much in shock and seemed numb the entire time. We didn't say much other than "I love you." We held hands and cried and cried. The nursing staff washed our baby and put a tiny little blue hat on his head and wrapped him up in the littlest blanket. They asked if we wanted to hold him. We both felt hesitant. Just less than 24 hours ago the doctors told us that if the baby was under 20 weeks, that it was just too small to save...Now they were treating him like a newborn baby and it felt very confusing and upsetting. We did hold him. I am grateful now that I did. He was very small, five and a half inches. He was perfect. Perfectly proportioned, perfect fingers and toes, most adorable little 'Christensen' nose just like his brothers, and as loved and cherished as any of my other babies. The love was strong and it hurt so much. We didn't spend longer than ten minutes holding him. The gentle nurse took him and made molds of his tiny feet and took some pictures of him for us. What heartache. I had just experienced birth and death in one surprising experience in which I was not in the least bit prepared for. I kept thinking, "The doctor's outlook was positive, it was good. How did we end up this way?"

For whatever reason, and we'll never know why, it happened. Our fifth little boy is not ours to have on this Earth. He is however with us, and he always will be. He will forever be mine and he will be in my every prayer, every wish, every temple session's warmest thoughts, every hope, and he has given me faith in and for the next life....faith to move mountains. I will have him one day. And in the meantime, I will ask my Heavenly Father to hug and kiss him every day until then...

I love you Miles...

XOXO's--Mommy

Miles Stephen Christensen

September 11th, 2010
2:45am
2oz 51/2 inches

pHone CamEra

2010-06-21T03:41:00.000-07:00

Thank Goodness that my phone has a camera. I can't tell you the number of times that I leave my good Nikon sitting home on the shelf, while we are out making memories....
Like I honestly have time to think about a camera when I have four pairs of shoes to keep track of, a diaper and wipes to pack, a bottle and spare to pack, sippy cups to secure, and carseats to buckle.....And sometimes I even leave the phone. Managing these four little boys is like herding cats. Here are a few moments from the month of May that my phone just happened to capture. Thank you phone camera.

Vacation

2010-06-03T22:30:00.000-07:00

We went on vacation....and now I need a vacation from the vacation! Been busy...and now school is out. Whatever will I do? More of these pictures to come...

These two are the alleged kissing cousins.

avatar

2010-05-04T00:45:00.000-07:00

he has definitely been the class clown around here lately....

blake has never seen Avatar, but he knows what's up.
he came in one morning with sharpie blue marker covering his extremities.
he told us he was an AVATAR.

Rex.

2010-05-04T00:16:00.000-07:00

this is tyler's t.rex

he drew this all on his own. pretty great for a seven year old.

"But look at my little arms. I can't press the fire button, and jump at the same time!" --Rex from Toy Story

BuGsie.

2010-04-29T16:56:00.000-07:00

Our boys love to watch Disney's Bedtime Stories and their favorite part is the guinea pig named Bugsie, because of his huge eyes. This is Talmage doing Bugsie Eyes. It has his brothers laughing into stitches.

my { mom & dad }

2010-04-28T22:03:00.000-07:00

this is a shot that i took of my parents on easter sunday. aren't they sweet? thirty two years of marriage and still so in love. oh i so admire....

the superhero playgroup

2010-04-26T14:05:00.001-07:00

This is the group of boys in our neighborhood who are my son Talmage's age. They are all such cute little peeps and Tally adores each one of these guys. So do I. All year long the mother's of these little guys take a turn hosting a playgroup after their preschool class from 11:30-2:30. A mother/hostess job requires feeding them lunch, usually doing a craft or game, and allowing ten little boys to terrorize her home. It has been a hoot, and now that the school year is coming to an end, our last rotation was this last week. We packed sack lunches and walked to the park, we watched a hail storm from our back porch, and laughed like crazy as I gave quarters to the little boys who dared to eat Blake's spinach salad leaves!!!! Isn't Talmage lucky to have so many cute little buddies?

L to R....Ethan, Aaron, Talmage, Blake, Brody, Landon, Carson, Dawson, Davis, and Carson

B. Whit

2010-04-08T17:18:00.000-07:00

.this little man stands out in our little crowd of six.

haPPy eAsTer

2010-04-06T14:39:00.000-07:00

.our bunnies.

.matching tradition. casual for conference this year.

.ty's basket.

.tally's basket.

.blakie's basket.

.group pic.

.baby's first easter 2010.

I represent the LolliPop GuiLD......

2010-03-30T10:49:00.000-07:00

this little guy is our comedian, or shall i say 'clown'. he has so many facial expressions and constantly tries to make us laugh with his physical comedy....
our daddy did the Lollipop Guild impersonation as a child....looks like blake has inherited his daddy's skills.

*the blakester is the cutest little clown i've ever seen.

home.

2010-03-23T12:21:00.001-07:00

Look at this sweet little boy. He is home. This little guy went in to Primary CHildren's Emergency ROom early on St. PaTty's day due to an asthma attack of which he had been fighting all thru the night and morning hours. I rode in the ambulance with this brave little boy. My heart has never felt so weak. After waiting for hours for a room to open up, we were admitted to the exact same room he had on his last visit in September of 2008.
I actually enjoyed the five days that he and I spent together up in room 3050. We colored together, painted crafts together, beaded together, watched movies, played cards and games together, laughed, hugged, slept side by side, and endured the attacking of the asthma attack. My hubby said that in the five days he was in the hospital that he "grew up". He is so strong, so brave, and I adore every bit of him. Mommy loves you Talmage. So glad you are back. Home.

*apologies for the photo quality, taken by cell phone.

SOul Shopping Sister....

2010-03-23T11:38:00.000-07:00

janelle, this post is for you girl....Notice the rug? Of all the rugs out there...of all the PB rugs alone.....what are the odds?
How many more purchases do you think we might have in common? I LOVE it. We really need meet up for a day of shopping!

Utah Spring Lion

2010-03-17T03:31:00.000-07:00

Taken last week...love these two little pocket rockets...

UtAh SunSeTs....

2010-03-15T15:46:00.000-07:00

This photo was taken last week before the snowfall. Isn't our view incredible. Whenever I see a sunset like this, "I'm glad that I live in this beautiful world...Heavenly Father created for me."

SevEn

2010-03-12T21:45:00.000-08:00

my oldest son turned seven years old.
my heart is conflicted....
i am so happy to watch my handsome son grow into a bright & intelligent little leader of our pack,
yet so sorrowful to let go of my tiny & perfect first born baby boy...merely a memory.

i once dreamed about the hopeful little life inside of me.....
what will he look like?
how will his laugh sound?
what will his loves be?
who will he be?

now we watch him grow.....& he is more joy than i could have ever imagined.

.his day..feb 13th.

.star wars party at boondocks.

.happy birthday ty.

.i love you.

OuR VaLenTiNeS DaY

2010-03-12T21:15:00.000-08:00

just wanted to journal our valentines day, cause it sure was a good one this year....

{the box}

{v.day party}

{v.day morning}

{our treat}
idea from b.buzz

ThIs bEd....

2010-03-05T15:25:00.000-08:00

Our little boys pile up in Tyler's bed every night for a bedtime story from their Dad. He thinks of a new story every night and the boys LOVE it. All three of them get in this bed and just listen with wide eyes as Steve taps into their deepest of imaginations. No one moves, irritates one another, or says a word. ALL EARS on Steve. The scarier the story, the better. And it isn't unusual for little Blakie, or little Tally, or little Ty to fall asleep. This bed is the place and time that they all (including Steve) look forward to every night.

TaLLy'S RoOm

2010-03-03T22:38:00.000-08:00

Here is it. One Last Look. I happen to think this is the best room in our house. The window faces East so he is first to see the sun coming over the hills behind our home. It is always bright, and cheery. It will make for a perfect nursery. Talmage can't wait to move his bed into the play loft in Tyler's room...in fact, he has been joining Ty in his cushy queen sized bed every night for the past few months. They beg to have sleepovers. It makes me so happy. My wise mother told me that if I was intending on moving them in together when the baby comes, then I must make a "Sleepover" a reward or a special privilege, and form their attitudes to be HAPPY about moving in together. She is smart, and she is good. Always has been. Thanks to her, the boys are ecstatic to share a room. Thanks Mom.

B. Whit is yUMmy...

2010-03-02T11:50:00.000-08:00

Brett Whitman (No. 4) is getting SO big. My tiny baby is growing up, and this was the cute little nugget this week during his OH SO HAPPY tummy TiMe!

A Child's Prayer

2010-02-03T10:48:00.001-08:00

Talmage said his prayer last night. I tried so hard not to laugh. This boy was born a jock. He can't help himself.....

Dear Heavly Father,
Thank you for this day.
Thank you for my Mom and Dad, and Tyler and Talmage and Blake and Brett.
Please bless me to be fast.
Please bless Tyler to be slow.
Please bless me to have muscles.
I say these things in the name of Jesus Christ,
Amen

For the record, he is fast!

Our Boy Brett

2010-01-22T13:18:00.001-08:00

{four months}

The cutest comment was made by a darling little Babysitter named Ally...
she said, "His skin is so soft and his cheeks are like moons!"
He sure is a lovable little thing.
He most certainly has me smitten.

2010-01-05T20:34:00.001-08:00

Happy Holidays....Here's to a very Happy 2010!

gratitude

2009-12-05T21:46:00.000-08:00

Thanksgiving was wonderful. We could not have had a better weekend. I am so overwhelmed with gratitude this year. When I begin to ponder all of my blessings, I close my eyes and my mind and heart overflow with memories and images of love and loved ones... and they don't stop coming...spilling out one after another...

friends, acts of service, new baby, quiet moments, the sunshine, laughter, tight hugs, kisses, deliciousness, inspiration, prayers, child prayers, chubby little hands and chubby little cheeks to kiss, husband...everything about husband, neighbors..old and new, sisters, brother..home safe & sound, miracles, mom, dad, husband's parents, postpartum...health & strength, traditions, dinners..with and from dear friends, tulip bulbs..planted by a friend, kids driven to and fro, loved up children, fed children, big favors, small favors, examples, compliments, texts, invitations..being invited, receiving good advice, true friends through and through, memories, photographs, children..growing & dreaming, simple pleasures and moments that stay with you forever....The list has just begun....

And all the tugging on my heartstrings bring tears to my eyes...my gratitude is humble, and on it's knees...you all must know how much it means....

thank you....
love,
kate

MoRe fRoM haLLoWeEn...

2009-11-09T08:36:00.000-08:00

Well this year was a very busy Halloween for our family! Juggling it all most definately was a challange with a newborn, two school parades, a 4 year old party plus 10 extra 4 year olds, a pumpkin carving party, trick or treat in the trees at Mimi and Papa's (sisters send me pics...didn't have my camera), and trick or treating on Halloween Night! But we did it! We DID it! And had a wonderfully happy holiday! The three boys were Transformers this year. They must have begged me to let them play in their costumes every day in October! Blakie was so cute with his Optimus Prime mask, he'd put it on and in the deepest voice he could make would say"I, am Optimus. Prime." It was precious. And we are so lucky that Brett is THE. BEST. BABY, he just hangs out and doesn't ever make a peep....just happy to be here with his fun brothers. :) I am starting to believe that four boys really will bring us many memorable and fun years to come. Bring it on, we can't wait.

Happy Halloween

2009-10-30T21:06:00.000-07:00

{ our littlest pumpkin's 1st halloween }

All Four One, and One for All

2009-10-26T11:33:00.000-07:00

And So Comes Love

2009-10-20T11:42:00.000-07:00

Our Littlest...
Brett
We are all still just head over feet for this little one.
He rarely ever cries.
His baby scent is savored.
He is still so tiny.
He is a little over a month old.
oh the baby love...

Special Delivery....

2009-09-30T12:58:00.001-07:00

BRETT WHITMAN

Our newest little man entered our lives September 18th, 2009 at 8:18 pm. He was 7 lbs 5 oz and 21 inches. We are all in heaven. This little sweetheart is the world's best baby and the brothers can't get enough of him. Here are some of the sweet things Brett's brothers have had to say about him.....

TYLER: "Mom, when I first saw Brett in the hospital, my heart was singing."

BLAKE: (When he first laid eyes on Brett) "A baby bird!"

TALMAGE: "Mom, did you cry when the baby came out?"
ME: "No, I didn't cry cause I am tough and brave and strong!"
TALMAGE: (laughing his deep raspy laugh) "Mom, you're the best girl!"

TYLER: "Oh Brett, I missed your fuzzy little face!"

BLAKE: (after the baby had nursed) "Okay Mom, I help now!" --lifting up his shirt and pointing to his little chest!

We are loving him up. The boys are perfect gentlemen around him, so loving, respectful and careful. I feel like the most blessed Mommy in the world!

More pictures and "Catch UP" to come.....

Bubbles & Bubbles & Bubbles

2009-08-07T18:09:00.000-07:00

{99 cents X 3 boys = so much joy}

has there ever been a better way to showcase the cheeks on these boys?

Scott is HOME

2009-07-20T17:01:00.000-07:00

my little bro just returned from serving his two year mission up in canada. he is so much fun to have home, my boys have been rediscovering him.....and they want to be just like him....and i am happy with that. ;) he and jen went out on the boat with us last weekend. it is good to have her around again too.

**oh and my sister took this picture, she is becoming quite the photographer. her style is what makes hers unique, check her out on brightsides....the button on the left.
here are a few more from the same trip....

BUZZ IS BACK {to infinity & beyond}

2009-07-15T15:22:00.000-07:00

several days after blake nuked his toy buzz lightyear, he went rummaging through the costume box to rediscover this old costume. he wore it around for several days last week until I washed it and hid it for a little break. he loves buzz.

talmage had fun swinging blakie around the family room as blakie would shout, "to infinity & beyond!"

happy 4th of july

2009-07-06T10:08:00.001-07:00

{july 4th 2009}

{a perfect day}

Yogurt and Fruit Popsicles

2009-07-02T04:11:00.001-07:00

We came in from a long day outside in the heat and made our own popsicles.... Easy and Oh so delicious...One problem though, you have to wait a good 6 hours to enjoy....

-quick & easy recipe follows-

-add any of your favorite fruit to 1 cup of lowfat vanilla yogurt-

-squeeze in juice of fresh lemon and add 2 tbsp sugar...then blend-

-then pour into popsicle molds; walmart $1.50-

Home Haircuts....for FREE!!!!

2009-06-29T10:53:00.000-07:00

do it myself, deal with wiggles, complaints, and tantrums

save money, if i mess up -- it is summer

and yes, i still refuse to cut the curls on #3

Buzz got Buzzed

2009-06-26T09:30:00.000-07:00

Steve sat straight up in bed the other morning (5:30 am) and said "What is that smell?" He then threw the covers off the bed and raced into our kitchen to find our 2 1/2 year old nuking his Buzz Lightyear in the Microwave. Turns out we have a little Sid on our hands!

Grandma Anderson's 80th Birthday

2009-06-16T09:29:00.000-07:00

-Grandma, Looking upon all those who love her so much-

-Her Beautiful Sisters-

-Family and 80 Candles on her Cake-

-all of the Girls got together and read her this vintage Barbie Book that she once read her girls-

I, like my grandma, have an older and younger sister. We are best friends just like she is. We all left the party that night hoping that we would always be as close, lovely and happy as she is with her two sisters. Happy Birthday Grandma, you are an angel.

End Of the SCHOOL YEAR CARNIVAL!!!!!!

2009-06-09T17:36:00.000-07:00

Tyler's school Carnival was Friday Evening. Blakie woke of with pneumonia Friday morning, and after two hours with three little monkeys at the Doctor's office...I got to stay home on a Friday night with a sick little one attached to my hip. But lucky for us...we have cousins living down the street and offered to take Tyler...SO BIG THANKS to Aunt JAMI and Uncle D and their 3 (almost 4) darling daughters! Tyler and Olivia are the same age and are good buddies. Jami sent me these cute pics of the painted faces...she said Tyler was SO concerned about not smudging it so that he could show me! CUTE SON. :)

The sick one and Buzz

Nothing Says Summer Like.....

2009-06-08T16:38:00.000-07:00

WATERMELON

These two ran in from playing outside and opened up our refridgerator to find a fresh bowl of Watermelon. When they saw it on the shelf they began "oohing and ahhing" like they had just struck gold. I told them it was theirs as long as they shared. They noshed and giggled together as they polished that juicy bowl of watermelon down in 20 min tops. Talk about a good healthy summer treat.

Red Mango Obsession

2009-06-08T16:18:00.000-07:00

Steve and I LOVE Red Mango. It is so refreshing and delicious and we feel like it is on the healthier side of desserts. We always get Blueberries and Mangos with a Pom/Original twist. Try it and you'll see what we crave. Too expensive for kiddos to appreciate, so they get popsicles. :)

Memorial Day 2009

2009-06-04T12:07:00.000-07:00

Papa and Marmie took our little family up to Jordanelle on Memorial Day. We took a spin on the lake. It was beautiful, the water was too cold for sports.
It was so peaceful to just ride. Thank You Papa, we all had FUN! "Wait 'till summer!"

T BALL MVPS

2009-06-04T11:55:00.001-07:00

The Royals and Coach Mauss.............Tyler and Talmage's T Ball Team 2009

GoOd oLd SaTurDaY MoRnInG cArToOnS....

2009-06-02T12:55:00.000-07:00

What we get to wake up to....so precious. They are growing up way too fast.

UP

2009-06-01T15:20:00.001-07:00

This Disney Pixar film was well worth seeing!!! All three boys were glued...and Steve and Me too. I did sob, I did laugh....so cute. The Dog Doug was my FAVORITE.

A quote to live by....

2009-05-29T09:30:00.001-07:00

IT IS A BOY!!!!!

2009-05-11T12:22:00.000-07:00

We found out that we are expecting our fourth SON! We are having another baby BOY. I couldn't be happier. I love little boys, especially the three little men of my own. Steve and I watched this movie, FINDING NEVERLAND, just after having our second son. We actually both cried together and laughed about how little boys' imaginations are so magical and how they have such a zest for life, adventure, and discovery! Mine are particularly sweet and loving to their Mother....and then they turn around and wrestle like pirates with their Daddy. I get to have four little boyfriends for life! What a happy happy Mother's Day treat!

It Has Been Awhile....

2009-04-02T12:49:00.000-07:00

Wow, my last post was forever ago! I have been a little bit more than busy lately! We went to Laguna Beach for 10 glorious days to see our sister Tiffany, her hubby Chris, and their beautiful little baby Ellie! We got to be there for her baby blessing....it was SO special and such a beautiful blessing. Little Eliza wore the most exquisite little blessing dress hand made by my mother in law, Vicki. It was amazing and if I ever have a girl, I am expecting one too! :) I will do whatever it takes, that dress was my favorite. Tiff and Chris had us over to his parent's home in Laguna Niguel. They made a delicious luncheon for our entire family and we had the funnest time just hanging out in their gorgeous yard! Newport is our new favorite spot, we took the two oldest boys and had the most rewarding experience. Walks on the beach at sunrise and sunset were the highlight for Steve and me....and LEGOLAND was the main event for the boys. We didn't want to come home. And now we are planning our next visit out to see Tiffers and Chris. I love them for living there...as much as we MISS them living here, we are more than happy to go to Laguna to see them!

We have moved to Draper and are expecting baby number 4! I have been feeling pretty great this time....maybe it is a girl!!! We will keep you posted!

tyLer, tAlMaGe & bLaKe

2009-02-09T19:27:00.000-08:00

This is the cutest stuffed dog given to Tally by
LuLu and Jeffie & Chris and Tiff & Stace

I just LOVE baby posers! I asked Blakie to Smile and he gave me this!!! I LOVE it.

Our three little men.

Tally Talk

2009-01-26T14:15:00.000-08:00

Talmage has been singing 'We wish you a Merry Christmas' since the beginning of December. It is his very favorite song, and the first song he has sung all by himself. He was singing it today and asked me to sing along. His little face lit up as we sang it together! I just thought this was so cute and perfectly appropriate for our little Christmas Eve Baby! I think he might grow up to be Santa Claus. Think about it..... Born on Christmas Eve, has Rosy little cheeks, his favorite color is red (NOT JOKING), has a Husky little build, and sings We wish you a Merry Christmas everyday! I love him so much! :)

Last Look.... Tyler 2008

2009-01-13T12:38:00.000-08:00

Last Look..... Talmage 2008

2009-01-13T12:24:00.000-08:00

Last Look...... Blake 2008

2009-01-13T12:14:00.001-08:00

What Happens When Mommy Takes A Phone Call.....

2009-01-08T02:56:00.001-08:00

This actually happened several months back and I forgot to post it. I couldn't leave this one out for 2008. He is no longer in pull ups btw....Thank Goodness! Check out his big toes!

I just HAD to add this photo of this crazy child parading around the neighborhood just fifteen minutes later......Got out while I was cleaning up a Sharpie mess! At least he threw on a few accessories before heading out.

Friends Christmas Party

2008-12-30T12:10:00.001-08:00

My High School Friends had the Annual Girls Christmas Party! Thanks to Claire, who hosted the party at her beautiful new home! She put on a great party and we all had so much fun. Good friendships are what life is all about. I Love you Girls!

Me, Becca, Missy, McCall, Megan

Emily, Sarah, Danielle, Jenny, Natalie, and Claire

I just had to post this picture for the girls.....zoom in on McCall making fun of my swollen left face!!!! Love it.

Family Christmas Picture Taking....

2008-12-30T12:00:00.001-08:00

My Mom wanted to take an Anderson Family Christmas picture....and this one was my pick.

Brothers and Sisters Party.....

2008-12-30T11:44:00.000-08:00

Instead of presents this year, the Christensen siblings gave each other a night out together...To have dinner and enjoy conversations without the kiddos interrupting! We sat at this giant round table that made for the perfect group setting. We love our brothers and sisters so much, and to spend a night out with them all together was such a treat! We decided to make it our new Christmas Tradition.

PoLar ExPreSS

2008-12-22T08:50:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas

Love Santa's Little Helpers.....Tyler, Talmage, and Blake

Our North Pole......

2008-12-10T22:08:00.000-08:00

Tyler, Tally and I were doodling together last night.....
The boys wanted to draw the North Pole.......
Don't judge my artistic skills on this.....
Steve laughed at the Rudolph......
We all were laughing at the red and blue car....

Santa may be a Ute, but Mrs. Clause just might be a Cougar!

NaUgHtY or NiCe?

2008-12-10T21:34:00.001-08:00

The Christensen Family always has a Santa Breakfast with all of the cousins! The children nosh on doughnuts and juice, and sing Christmas Carols while they await the arrival of Old St. Nick. He DID come this year and our boys got to make their Christmas Requests......Now let's hope they are NICE! Thanks Aunt Diane for hosting all of us in your Beautifully decorated Home! And Thanks to Karen for the Pictures!

Talmage asked for a remote controlled Wall E robot!

Tyler Asked for the LEGO star wars Death Star....he is now reconsidering....

Blake took one look and.....

We still aren't sure what Blakie wants,
but Tyler will surely give us some ideas! Legos maybe? :)

We are THANKfuL for Our LittLe BoYs. . .

2008-11-23T10:28:00.001-08:00

Happy For HALLOWEEN

2008-11-03T10:24:00.000-08:00

Tink, Kitty, Indy, Belle, Cowgirl, Batman, Vader, & Pup.

Farewell To One of the Best.....

2008-10-31T09:19:00.000-07:00

James Robert Anderson
My Grandpa Andy passed away early morning on Sunday October 26th.

We celebrated his life at his funeral Thursday. What a perfect fall day! The leaves were falling due to the crisp fall breeze and the sun was shining in the bright blue sky. I am sad to see him go, but I'm so happy he will be able to return to our loving Heavenly Father. His poor body had been suffering for so long. Fortunately my sister Amelia and I were able to visit him about a week before he passed away. He told me how proud he was of my husband Steve and me. Then when he saw my son Tyler, he sat up laughing, reached out for his hand, and said, "Look at That!" He has always loved his Grandchildren, was such a wonderful Grandpa and so full of personality. He was one of a kind and will be missed by many. It meant so much to me to see so many people come to honor him. He had so many friends, who all had great things to say about him. People really loved his great sense of humor. He was always LAUGHING. He loved to Have fun, he worked hard and he played hard. I will miss him so much, and I know my Dad sure will. They were great friends and my Dad always took care of him in his final years. I am proud of my Dad.
"See You in the Spring Grandpy!"

Picklebelly's er..CORNbelly's!

2008-10-18T21:00:00.000-07:00

We came, we saw, we laughed, we chased, we cried, and we left! No, we had a great time amongst all that chaos! It was one the kids will want to do annually! I had to post these pictures to document the one time I made it out to one of cute Karen's Outings! She is Steve's cute cousin and she has been organizing and working so hard to get the Christensen Cousins together more frequently! The kids have almost as much fun as the Mommies. Thanks Karen, LOVED seeing you and Jami, Di, Liz, Mom and all those adorable kiddies.

Blake Loving the Bounce House

Talmage Loving the Swing Horse--Thanks for pushing Abbie!

Then The Dinosaur....

Scared Them All.....

And Made Some Cry....

They Forced Brave Smiles!
(I LOVE this picture of Coley! He was really worried about his sister going into that Dinosaur! --so adorable.)

A BiT of WhAt We've BeeN Up To...

2008-10-13T21:55:00.000-07:00

OctObeR ArOund Our hOuse...
Gettin' Spooky!

The Sugar Cookie Maker....er Froster

Tyler Shared his Sugar with his Friends....

And of course Ty had Good Old Western Days...

Talmage Too.

Happy Birthday to Blake

2008-10-01T13:03:00.001-07:00

September 29th -- Blake Turns 2.

Our littlest boy turned two years old on Monday. We can't believe how quickly the time has gone. This little one has been the baby in our family for the longest amount of time. He is starting to act like it too! :) We love him so much and love how he gives us so much love with his hugs and kisses.

His favorite things right now:

Cowboy Hats, and humming the Indiana Jones theme song
Humming the Star Wars theme song
All Hats
BUZZ LIGHTYEAR..."To Infinny an Beyon" (with both arms extended in the air as he jumps off of something)
Woody
Batman
A good five minute hug first thing in the morning
Screaming loudly
Taking off his shoes
Doing whatever the big brothers are doing

Happy Birthday Blakie...WE LOVE YOU!!!

On TOp Of tHe WoRld....

2008-09-27T18:47:00.000-07:00

SNOWBIRD

Our family went up to OktoberFest at Snowbird. The festival is every weekend in September through the first week in October. We had the most beautiful day. We rode the lift to the Top and the view was breath taking. All four of my height sensitive boys were kind of freaking out as we rode the Gondola to the top. I was laughing all the way up, and down as I watched them all just gripping on to each other! Precious really. I love that all four are just spooked by looking down.

How cute are these two little fisherman? They had the best time fishing the stocked pond.

"Cheers to Oktoberfest"

First Day of KINDERGARTEN!!!

2008-09-12T12:29:00.001-07:00

Here is our little man Tyler on his first day of Kindergarten! He was very happy to go back to school and to wear his uniform! I thought all summer long that I would be more than ready to send him to school every day, but I was surprisingly a bundle of nerves the night before....just like back when I was a student....could not sleep the night before the first day of school! I was in fact up all night preparing his lunch, uniform, backpack, and organizing for my busy life of being a full on Mom. He was so excited and confident and he told me that he loved me and that he would miss me. I have to admit that when I waved goodbye to him as I pulled away from the school, my heart ached a bit and tears filled my eyes! Not because I was sad, but because I was so proud of my sweet little son.

Okay, so I pulled away from the school, wiped the tears, parked the car, and ran back in to just take a peek! I snapped this shot and they all turned around as I jumped away from the door into the hall so that Ty would not see me! Luckily, I was fast enough and he never knew his Mom was spying!

Terrible Twos Poster Child....

2008-08-21T21:39:00.001-07:00

Will the real Blake Christensen Please Stand Up?

This little man is just a month from turning two, and sure enough, our sweet little Blake magically turned into a little MOnster --Overnight!

So we took him to dinner at Market Street Grill this last weekend -- Big Mistake. For some reason, he just had to hold all three Glass bottles of Ketchup, Tabasco Sauce, and Vinegar all at once. We have never been so bugged by those condiments on our table until this dining experience. It wouldn't be so hard if our child didn't yell out a shrieking scream every time we tried to sneak them away. He unfortunately decided to demonstrate his new 'discovery' to us on this evening, which was this: He ups the volume on that scream, and we do whatever the heck it takes to calm him down. (We of course give in to his demands in an attempt to finish our dinner and to try and allow others to finish theirs too, in peace!) Steve and I both agreed that we haven't had a Friday Date that THRILLING and adventurous in a long time.

Just this morning I caught him practicing his dramatic cry and squeal in front of the lower oven's shiny reflection! He was holding the oven handle, while shaking the oven door open and closed, and watching his dramatic performance!

Here, he is demonstrating another Two Year Old Skill -- The 'On Your Back Kick n' Scream Combo'

Here he is - The little Poster Boy Himself

A Tally Prayer....

2008-08-19T21:58:00.000-07:00

So we tucked Talmage into bed last night, and this sweet prayer just had to be documented.... and since this had been the closest thing to our journal these days.....here it is:

Dear Heavly Father,

Thank you for Jesus.
and for Birfdays,
and soccer,
and Daddy,
and Inyana Jones,
and Wegos, (Legos)
and Tyler,
and Wegos.

Name of Jesus Christ,
Amen.

Summer Birthdays...

2008-08-18T10:06:00.001-07:00

You might think from these pictures that Talmage was having a half birthday celebration. (Which may have not been a bad idea considering the fact that his birthday is on December 24th) But, we were celebrating summer birthdays on the Anderson side.....Sam, Sabrina, and Todd.....Happy Birthday guys! Talmage was the life of the Birthday Party. He was singing and pointing to Todd, blowing out candles, giving out kisses, and just downright happier than ever! Next sunday we are celebrating Christensen Birthdays in August.....Oh, Tally will be so happy!

Happy Birthday Uncle Todd....Thanks for the Pink Girl Cake!

Harold's Fight

2008-08-08T10:49:00.001-07:00

Our uncle, Harold Lefrandt was was diagnosed with a Grade III Brain Tumor (Anaplastic Astrocytoma) in 2005. surgery and treatment he was "cancer free" for 2 1/2 years. In September of 2007 he was diagnosed with a reoccurrence and started a new chemo treatment plan. The Temodar treatments were successful and he was without any "measurable tumor" in January 2008. Harry remained on the Temodar as a maintenance plan until June. The Temodar treatment is great as far as Chemotherapy goes and he has been able to live a very comfortable life. However, this past June they were surprised to see that the tumor was breaking through the Temodar treatment and re-growing. And over the last month an MRI revealed some very serious concerns. The tumor cells have now expanded beyond the original surgical cavity and are blocking the Cerebral Spinal Fluid. It is apparent from their size that they are very aggressive. The rate of growth in four weeks is alarming. One smaller tumor is blocking the 4th ventricle. This is very serious and life threatening.

His wife and children have begun a blog to provide updates on Harold's progress. In an open letter on the blog, they write:

Our family has selected a scripture that strengthens us and expresses succinctly our faith and plan:
“Therefore, dearly beloved …, let us cheerfully do all things that lie in our power, and then may we stand still, with the utmost assurance, to see the salvation of God, and for his arm to be revealed.” Doctrine & Covenants 123:17

We wanted to do our part to let people know of Harold's situation, and to also let Uncle Harry (and Diane) know that our prayers and faith are with him and his family.

Tyler Talk (with a little Con Man)

2008-07-16T14:20:00.001-07:00

My five year old was playing with a new friend who had a new remote control Speed Racer Car. Tyler was drooling over it and admiring this cool new toy. So this conversation is what I overheard.....

Tyler: "Oh wow, that car is SOOO cool. Where did you get that?"
Friend: "At the store, but that was a long time ago, they are all gone now."
Tyler:"How much did it cost?"
Friend: "My Mom bought if for me, I don't know."
Tyler: "Well, when you have a garage sell, can I buy it from you?"
Friend: "Yeah, okay. You can buy it from me."
Tyler: (So Excited) "Okay, how much money will it cost?"
Friend: "All of your family's money."
Tyler: (No longer excited, gives him a confused look, shrugs his shoulders and says) "Okay."
***Just ready to sell the farm!

Tally Talk

2008-07-16T12:52:00.001-07:00

Our Iittle number 2, Talmage, has been slow to speak because of his hearing. He had fluid in both ears and had to get new tubes placed in his Ears. SO, now that his hearing is back, he is talking better and better and we are finding out what is on his little mind! He is so funny and he says the cutest things. He is working on learning his colors right now and it is hilarious. He has names for all the colors and they are all just so....Talmage! When we practice the colors, here are the names he says everytime: (some right, some... creative!)

Wellow
Daddy Blue
Pink Girl
White
Ba-Red -and I say, "Just rrred." And he says, "Ba Red."
Purple
Black
Turtle Green

And this is his funny comment the other day when our cute neighbor Beckie came and picked him up to take him to her house for lunch! She buckled him into her car and then she said to him, "Oh you are ADORABLE." And then Talmage replied, "I'n not DORABLE, I'n TALMAGE." Then he folded his little chubby arms and nodded his head. So hearing hasn't really changed his little nature, just made communicating a lot easier.

We are so proud of his progression and feel so blessed to have found out about his hearing. Hopefully he can continue to catch up and be ready for preschool in the fall. :) Now we need to work with him on sharing and being more gentle. He has super human strength and combined with and inability to share makes for a scary combination sometimes! Tyler, our five year old, constantly tells us how STRONG Tally is. "He is stronger than me MOm," he'll say.

We love you so much Tally. We are so happy that you are ours! :)

There's only ONE -- LaGoON.....

2008-06-28T12:01:00.000-07:00

I took Tyler and Talmage to Good Old Lagoon this week with My Mom on her STake Lagoon Day! We went around 3:00 pm and stayed until it closed! Tyler brought along his next door buddy Silas and they all were such good guys. It was perfect weather and the boys.....(I mean) WE ALL.....had so much fun.

I went to Lagoon every summer growing up and I remember being a teenager and racing through the Kiddie Ride Area with my pals, just thinking....Oh how slow and boring for the parents who pay for a pass and end up riding kiddie rides all day! But this time around, I spent the entire time with my boys, just riding with them, watching them laugh together, and having them hold on tight together....(they rode the Tidal Wave....after which Tyler Told me, "Let's tell Daddy that I rode the Big Boat, but let's never go on that again, okay?") THey were SO darling and I realized that it was just as fun being the Mom. And to my Mom, THank YOu so Much! She is a kid at heart, and she makes it way more fun with her oohing, ahhing and weeeee's.... and her laughing too! SHe made it such a special day for my kids, and me. We just might have to BOunce Back one more time.....

My Mom's 5oth Birthday Gift...

2008-06-23T09:46:00.001-07:00

My Sister and I took our kids down to Temple Square to have our kids' pictures taken together for a Birthday GIft for my Mom! The FLOWERS were Fantastic, couldn't have been more amazing. In fact, I happened to be down at the TEmple the very next week and the tulips were almost gone just one week later. So, we got LUCKY, and the kids did, well......Okay! THe pictures turned out great, and brought tears to my Mother's eyes when she saw the picture of her babies. THe photographer.....Heather George! SHe is SO cute and very good with the kids. We all loved her. THanks So much Heather, we still owe you bubbles~ HeatherGeorgePhotography.

Last Day of SchooL

2008-06-13T09:58:00.001-07:00

Here they ALL are,
posing for the LAST DAY OF PRE-SCHOOL for Tyler! He will be in Kindergarten next year, we are growing up! This is the crew that gets to hang out with Mom all summer, all week, every day, all day!!! Do any of you Mom's have fun summer ideas for kids? We need some fun things to keep this guys busy with! Well, they are already BUSY, so some ideas for FUN!

PS....Do you like how Blakie takes his Breakfast?

Our Boy Boston....

2008-06-10T15:16:00.000-07:00

Our Brother David and his darling wife Shelby have found themselves at 21 weeks pregnant and in the hospital with a leak of her water....They were on Vacation in Moab when Shelby noticed some water leaking. They life flighted her to St. Marks Hospital where they confirmed to them that there was a significant loss of fluid and that their sweet little son Boston's arrival could be in danger. They allowed Dave and Shelby to go home and well......Wait! So sweet Shelby is in her bed, trying to keep still to prevent any more leaking. The Wonderful News is, is that she is getting it done! Boston is healthy, strong, and doing well. There is no infection, she isn't contracting, and leakage is minimal. We have been praying for Boston, Shelby, David, and their two daughters Addie and Caprice. They have a lot of love spread around in their home and hearts and we know that they will all pull through. Including little Boston. Please remember them in your thoughts and prayers. Every bit of hope, positive support, love, and faith helps to make miracles triumph!

Visit the site that this faithful Dad created for his awaited son.....
Boston's Blog --- Enter Site Here

Blakie's Been Tagged

2008-05-31T04:02:00.001-07:00

-6 Things about Our Boy Blake-

1. He Loves Hats....It really is the cutest thing, he picks out a new hat every day and struts it...He will tweak it several times, turn it to the side, then back to the front. If one of his older brothers dares to mess with his hat, he SCREAMS until they leave him alone.

2. He is a slow and selective Eater! He is unlike any of our other boys! He inspects every piece of food before putting it into his mouth, and he carefully removes anything out of the ordinary! He is slow and deliberate, it can take an hour to finish one single chocolate chip cookie. Even I 'aint that SLOW!

3. He LOVES to give hugs and kisses to all of us. If I ask him to go and give someone a kiss, he immediately beelines with open arms to whomever it is. He makes a sound like this as he approaches his chosen one...."Ohhhhh" and then ever so quietly and gently gives the tiniest little kiss. It is PRECIOUS to say the least!

4. He thinks he is one of the Big Boys. He is NEVER too small or not TOugh Enough! He will try ANYTHING that his brothers are doing. He honestly has not figured out the fact that he is the baby. He wrestles with TALMAGE, enough said.

5. He loves Water! Our one and only child who LOVES a bath, loves to splash, loves sprinklers... Even in the Face, and he can't get enough. I can just dump the big cup of bath water right on top of his head to wash out the shampoo and he just holds his little breath and then laughs! He is so cute to watch when playing in water.

6. Finally, he is our little Private Thumb Sucker! He sucks his little thumb only while he is putting himself to sleep. He will wait until I leave the room to insert his little thumb! I only catch him in action if he is deliriously tired, if I unexpectedly sneak back into his room after putting him down, or if I strategically try to catch him. He doesn't do it while sleeping, just to soothe himself to sleep. I never thought I would allow a thumb sucker until I had Blake. He has been doing it since he was born. I love it about him.

Blake Tags: Chanel, Lily, Sydney, Carter, Phoenix, and Tommy.

Our New House Guest

2008-05-22T13:39:00.000-07:00

A WorK Of ArT...

Every time we open our door, a little mother bird flies from the shade of our front porch out into the sunlight. We startle her as the door swings open...because that is where her home is! Her nest is built in the tops of our wreath. She is keeping these four little eggs safe. And we happily welcome these little guests, and now we open our front door with care to take extra care of our new family.

Best Mother's Day.....My Three Sons.....

2008-05-12T12:33:00.000-07:00

My three sons......They are my world, and thanks to them and their thoughtful Daddy....I had a perfect Mother's Day!
(--as usual, they have a perfect track record!)
I love you boys!
And Happy Mother's Day to my Mom, and Steve's Mom!
--You are both too good to be true!

Hello Creek!

2008-05-08T07:47:00.000-07:00

The Creek is alive and running as of yesterday, May 7th! It seems rather late this year. I took this picture just after sunrise this morning. We just LOVE the sound of it through our windows....It feels like we are camping. It not only sounds beautiful, but the view is breathtaking! Now on the flipside....Keeping all of the Kiddies safe! Don't worry, they are all scared silly by my stories, threats and warnings! Other than that, we welcome our back door creek!

Dentist Drama ( In the WAITING room!)

2008-04-30T14:34:00.000-07:00

Today I took Tyler to visit the Dentist. We went to the funnest Pediatric Dental Office. This is a picture of the Outer Space themed waiting room. I also brought along the little brothers....so you can imagine the chaos inside that waiting room this morning with the three little monkeys running all over the place.

Tyler did a great job though, and he came out with a smile, a certificate, and a balloon! And this made his little brothers quite envious and upset. (Even little Blakie was mad....and he was making a stink over it too...I was shocked.) After a few minutes of screaming, crying and tantrums, the dental assistants had two more balloons rushed out to the other two boys! (Emergency)

Well, as soon as everyone was happy we headed out the door to the car. Sadly only two of the three balloons made it to the car. Blakie had a tight grip on his, and Tyler wisely tied his to his wrist. Talmage had the bad luck. He became devastated as they all watched it float up into the sky and disappear. He was sobbing as he slowly moped into the car. I buckled him in and as I did so, I saw that Tyler was watching with a very sympathetic look on his face. Just as I buckled Talmage in and wiped away some of the many tears streaming down his face, Tyler said, "Tally, I think that you are a good little boy and that Jesus loves you. I think that Jesus is going to send your balloon back!"

Talmage just kept crying, but my heart was so happy!

Baby Mutant Ninja Turtle

2008-04-24T16:26:00.000-07:00

Although Tyler and Talmage have kind of moved on from Ninja Turtles to Legos for the moment, this little 'has been' is still a big Turtles Fan.

Blakie got his hands on this turtle mask one day while the older boys were out! He ran around the house with it on and didn't take it off for a good half hour.

When the Brothers are away, the baby will play!

Pictures Taken

2008-04-01T13:58:00.001-07:00

I took the kids to get their pictures taken, and this was the final picture...Let's just say, Everyone was happy to wrap it up that day!

click here to see more

HaPpY EaSteR EveRyboDy!

2008-03-25T14:54:00.000-07:00

Our Family had a very memorable Easter Weekend spent together! It was great get away time for each one of us. We all got to enjoy one on one time with each other and our kids loved playing the weekend away with their Daddy. Hope all of those we love had a beautiful Easter Weekend as well!

Happy St. Patrick's Day....

2008-03-17T13:42:00.000-07:00

We got a little bit festive over here....SO we thought we'd spread our lucky GREEN cheer!

Tyler's Turtle Party!

2008-03-14T13:53:00.001-07:00

Tyler turned 5 on February 23rd and we had a big party for him on the 26th. All of our family members came to the kid barn, along with his buddies Silas and Tiger, to celebrate his birthday and love for Ninja Turtles.
His Daddy put on the Ninja Turtle costume to surprise all of the kids. The kids LOVED the turtle, but the Turtle was one hot Guy under that muppet pelt! (What a champ!)

When the kids asked why the turtle needed frequent breaks, Mimi (Steve's Mom) was quick to reply to the children, "Turtles need water, and they have to go get some water every ten minutes so that they don't dry out!" The kids bought into it and had such a good time. Thanks Stevie, and thanks for all who came out to love Tyler on his day!
Papa Tom got in and was one of the kids! All of his cute grandparents were in on the action! We love you Mimi, Papa, Marmie and Papa Tom!

Happy Birthday Tyler!
Oh how we love you!

For those of you who LOVED Project Runway.....

2008-03-11T10:15:00.000-07:00

...Or were forced to watch it with your wife. (That's you Stevie)
Come see this clip. You'll laugh your pants off! Amy Poehler is a genius, and my favorite is Tim Gunn! Click below.....

http://projectrunwayvideo

Walk and Talk at the Same Time...

2008-03-05T16:23:00.000-08:00

This little man was pacing back and forth the other night while on a very important business call. He was babbling something to someone and it was all very serious. This reminds me of someone we all know.......hmm, could it be our Daddy? Guess who tries to be just like you Dad? Well this little Blake is your Mini Me.

What?

closing the deal....

The AlpHaBEt CrOwN

2008-02-28T13:28:00.000-08:00

Tyler came home from school yesterday wearing this special crown! It is the Aphabet Crown, and when kids can identify, write, and pass off the sounds of all of the uppercase and lowercase letters, they receive this crown! It is quite the big deal at his little preschool!

He was told that he was two letters away on Monday, so he came home Monday night and worked really hard with me on it. He set a goal with his Dad and Steve promised to take him to Boondocks when he came home with that crown!

So when I picked him up yesterday from school, sure enough Tyler came running out wearing his crown and begging me to call up Dad! I was so proud! And yes, we spent the evening playing at Boondocks! All the boys had the night of their lives playing with their Dad, especially Tyler.

Tyler Talk....

2008-02-05T17:39:00.000-08:00

Steve took me to San Francisco this weekend and our little boys stayed with my wonderfully helpful parents. Today when I talked with Tyler about his stay with his grandparents he told me this funny story.....

Mommy: "So Tyler, Did you boys have fun at Marmie and Papa's?
Tyler: "Yeah, but Papa got mad at me and Tally last night."
Mommy: "Uh oh, did you boys do something naughty; what did you do?"
Tyler: (long hesitation and finally he takes a deep breath and replies) "Yes . . . and that is all I can say."

Beauty Bath

2008-01-28T11:59:00.000-08:00

There is nothing quite like freshly bathed and shiny clean little boys! It is amazing what one bath will do for these guys! When they are all cleaned up and fresh from the tub, I look at them and just admire how handsome they are!

No matter what, I love them dirty, clean, and everything in between...

shiny clean

loves to splash

love this smile

my vintage boy

SKyLine GIrLs

2008-01-19T21:47:00.000-08:00

My buddies from high school came to my house for lunch this week. It was so fun to see everyone and their cute kids. We are finally ending up in the same places in life again, we all took such different paths after high school and now we finally have more things in common! It is one of my goals this year to get us together at least once a month! It is always so much fun and our kids have a great time too! I love you all, thank you so much for coming over. And for you who couldn't make it...Next time for sure!

The group who made it out! (Britt left early)

Sarah (8months pregnant), Emily, Danielle, and Rigby!

Ella and Tyler...

Precious Sofia and Blakie, he is smitten!