Photos By Amy B

Stayin alive...

2011-06-24T15:19:00.000-07:00

It's true. I'm still alive, although my recent blogging activity might suggest otherwise. I've been a little busy, bot not nearly enough to explain my prolonged absence. Here's a bit of what I've been up to

This family actually stood ina river for this shot. And they were ever so happy to do so!

I successfully completed my first wedding! It was an amazing experience, and the couple couldn't have been more adorable! It had been raining cats and dogs for the few days before, and started pouring as soon as I took my last shot!

This little guy just makes me giggle. I've gotten to watch him grow from behind my camera since I did his Mom's maternity photos, and he just couldn't be more cute!

Hosted by Cecily and Lolli

Spring has (almost) sprung!

2011-03-18T11:58:00.000-07:00

This week we took a little trip to our local duck pond, One of my favorite places to take pictures.

We stayed outside for quite a while.

And it felt Great!!

Spring is on it's way...

Are you ready?

Cause we can't wait!!

Hosted by Cecily and Lolli

Waitin on Spring

2011-03-03T17:56:00.000-08:00

Recently, we recieved a lot of snow, so DaDaddy decided to make a sledding hill in the front yard.

Now, a few days later, golden sunshine melts what's left of our mini snow hill

Come on Spring! We are so ready!

Hosted by Cecily and Lolli

Superspiderbatbubba

2011-02-25T12:26:00.000-08:00

This is Superspiderbatbubba.

He's strong, handsome, and, at times, faster than a speeding bullet. Almost literally

Last week, he had tubes put in, his adenoids removed, and surgery on his toes

He really is our little superhero

Hosted by Cecily and Lolli

Bubba B-Ball

2011-02-18T12:17:00.000-08:00

Bubba recently started playing basketball.

For this reason, I've been looking forward to age 4 for a LONG time.

Watching my kiddos play sports has always made me giddy just thinking about it

I may be slightly prejudice...But I'm SURE he's one of the best players on his team

This fills my "mommy glass" to the brim

Hosted by Cecily and Lolli

Be My Valentine

2011-02-10T19:31:00.000-08:00

For Valentines, I asked Mr. B not to get me anything.

A tradition that has been going on for every holiday of our five-and-a-half years of wedded bliss.

Do ya think maybe THIS time he might listen?

...

Me neither :D

Oh well.

A pound of See's chocolate is sounding AMAZING at this point in my diet.

Happy Valentines everyone!

Hosted by Cecily and Lolli

Children

2011-02-06T09:05:00.000-08:00

“Whatever they grow up to be,

they are still our children,

and the one most important

of all the things we can give to them

is unconditional love.

Not a love that depends on anything at all

except that they are our children.”

-Rosaleen Dickson

Hosted by Cecily and Lolli

Sandy Toes in Winter

2011-01-12T15:26:00.000-08:00

It has been FREEZING here lately.
We haven't seen the sun for days.
The furnace barely has time to click off before it's warming up to turn back on.
It's about 20 degrees right now, and that's "warm" compared to the 9 we had yesterday.
Ice on roads and driveways and sidewalks is still inches thick in places from a storm we had over a week ago.
Ahhh warmth...*sigh*
This November, we took a trip to the ocean...played in the water...squished our toes in the sand...

All this cold makes me wish I were back at the beach.

Friday Photo Funny

2010-12-17T11:10:00.001-08:00

I had a shoot this week with FIVE people and FIVE dogs.

It actually was really fun, and the family are some of my favorite people in the world.

The dogs looked this way, and that way, and ran away...

But what are the chances I'd get a picture like this?

They look almost well-behaved, huh?

Have a Merry Christmas everyone!

Hosted by Cecily and Lolli

2010-12-12T08:22:00.000-08:00

Bubba got an ear infection.
A pretty good one.
And since it had only been a few weeks since the last bad one had ruptured his eardrum, the doc immediately put him on antibiotics.
Penicillin this time.
About a week later, we got him ready for bed and noticed THESE!

Ummm....that can't be good.

Silly mom didn't think to stop the antibiotics

the next morning they were even worse, so we took him to the doc.

Who said he was having a severe reaction to the penacillin.

Yay...

Something else to add to Bubba's list of "things I'm allergic to"

Lucky

2010-12-09T09:44:00.001-08:00

While traveling through California at night, I saw the most amazing full moon. Luckily, my camera was handy, so I took it out and starting shooting.
Have you ever tried taking a picture while going 85 on the freeway at night?
It's no easy task, let me tell you.

Unless you're in to the snake-like headlight blurs.
You can't use your flash because it will reflect off the windshield.

You can't use a tripod, for obvious reasons.
You can't exactly stop in the middle of the road.

You can't predict when you will come across a nice big road bump, either.

I guess it's just hit and miss. Pure luck, I suppose. I shot, and shot, got frustrated, changed settings, adjusted lighting, and eventually gave up because nothing looked quite right.

When I got home, I put the photos into my (not-so-trusty) computer, and found this one. Right at the beginning. Before any frustration had set in. Sheesh... It's not anything amazing, but considering the others, I kinda liked it.

Maybe I'm luckier than I thought.

Hosted by Cecily and Lolli

It's been a while...

2010-11-11T11:20:00.000-08:00

The hard drive to my computer crashed.

And there went all the recently-added-not-yet-saved-to-an-external-drive photos.

Good thing I'd had the impression just the week before to print off about 200 of those pictures.

Needless to say, my camera finger has been extra busy trying to make up for those lost, irreplaceable pictures.

Oh well.

These kids will just have to be satisfied with their 1800 pictures from the past year,

instead of all 1847.

Hosted by Cecily and Lolli

Da Sween

2010-09-02T17:32:00.000-07:00

"Mommy, will you push me on da sween?"
My motivation for going to the park is so he can get some exercise.

So HE can get some exercise.

Oh well, I guess I could use a little myself

Hosted by Lisa and Cecily

Slightly Rusty

2010-08-26T08:24:00.000-07:00

On a trip with my family last year, I found so many amazing old barns.

I've always had a fascination with old buildings

I'm not sure if it's just how awesome they look

or possibly the idea of what they've been through

Maybe a combination of both?

Whatever it is, I just can't get enough...

Hosted by Cecily and Lolli

Kudos Kiddos

2010-07-29T17:46:00.000-07:00

"I Love my children."
I find myself saying this to myself several times a day, especially about a certain tantrum-throwing, mule-stubborn, born-to-be-wild 3 year old.

No really, I DO love them, some days I just need to remind myself a little more why I do what I do.

Yesterday was one of those days...

On these days, I go to sleep thinking "tomorrow is another day..."

And I try not to cry :D

Hosted by Cecily and Caitlin

AHHH

2010-07-22T20:27:00.000-07:00

It's Hot.

VERY hot!!!

The kind of hot where all you want to do is run around in the shady grass in bare feet.

The kind of hot that makes you wish you had a swimming pool to live in. And someone else to clean it.

Heat that makes you grateful for air conditioning.

The kind of heat that makes you realize, if you have to be in it, sweating like a piglet in a frying pan...

there's no one else you'd rather be miserable with.
HAPPY SUMMER!

Hosted by Cecily and Lolli

NUMBERS

2010-06-25T18:32:00.000-07:00

Such a boring title, I know. Really, is this lady a preschool teacher or something? (Actually, yes, but that's not the point) Lil Stink will be ONE a week from today!! And I was thinking about all the cool numbers we have in our little family.

First, my first brother, first son, and first nephew were all born on December 6.
Go figure...
Second, Bubba's birthday (ten days AFTER his due date) is 12-6-06 (12-6=6)

Then, Stink(8 days late) was born on 7-2-09 (7+2=9)

My birthday is the 22 of the month, and the Hubbers' is the 8th. 22+8=30 Our anniversary is on the 30th(coincidentally, the 30th of this month. Five years. Phew!
)
None of this was planned, it just happened that way. Pretty cool, eh?

Where ya been?

2010-05-27T20:38:00.000-07:00

Where have I been?

Where have I been...

No where, really. I haven't got a reason why I haven't been on here in over a month...not. one.

Wait, I can think of one good excuse...

He's a cruizer!

and we've been on our feet A LOT lately!

Hosted by Cecilyand Mamarazzi

In the Genes

2010-04-01T16:01:00.001-07:00

It's in the genes. I've always loved to take pictures. My mom was especially fond of my obsession to photograph EVERY moment of my life when all we had were 35mm cameras. Now, the 3-year old shares this passion. Call me crazy, but I actually let him use MY camera.

Thank goodness for digital...

Hosted by Cecily and Life With Kaishon

All things with STYLE!!

2010-03-18T20:57:00.001-07:00

After all the testing was done, we were told he'd need glasses. Very. Thick. Glasses.

Secretly, I was excited, as I have always thought that babies with glasses are SO CUTE!

And you can imagine my delight when I discovered that they make little man glasses!

When we put them on, and his eyes lit up, I realized that for the first time, my baby could see things the way I see them.

He reached his fingers out to caress anything he could get his hands on, and, in true Stink fashion, wore his grin from ear to ear.

And THAT means even more to me than how stinkin cute he looks with them on!

Hosted by Cecily

Testin' those shifty eyes

2010-03-05T08:07:00.000-08:00

It's been a long week. Doctor visits, ear infections, nasty coughs, and this

Does this look extremely painful to anyone else?

And all while wearing a smile, well...for the most part

So I wasn't surprised(or upset in the least) when he woke up today like this

We're deffinately looking forward to a better next week...

Hosted by Cecily and Kelli

One of THOSE days

2010-02-25T17:47:00.000-08:00

So, I promised that I would do a post this week on something other than my kids, and I have to admit, it took a lot more brain power than I anticipated. But, I did it!

On top of that, having been asked to co-host PSF, I had the added stress of trying to find a really neat picture and write something life-changing. yeah...I gave up...

Today, I've been kinda feeling like this...

Old, insignificant, a little unkempt, and speeding around a little too fast.

It kinda made me wonder what sorts of things someone might tag all over me...

Hopefully, they would be nice...(or at least, like in the picture, in languages I didn't understand)

Hosted by Cecily and Amy

To play Photo Story Friday, check this. Copy this code into your post and sign the link list:
<center><a href="http://mychaosmybliss.blogspot.com/2007/06/photo-story-friday-and-rules.html" target="_blank"></a><br/>Hosted by <a href="http://mychaosmybliss.com/" target="_blank">Cecily</a> and <a href="http://dabudges.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Amy</a><p/></center>

Speechless

2010-02-18T14:37:00.000-08:00

This kid's good nature and sweet personality are just two of the things I LOVE about him.

He has a tendancy to make an almost unbearable day so much better with just one little smile...
see what I mean?
He's had a few health problems, but he always comes out grinning. And seriously...
could this kid be ANY cuter??

And next week...I've vowed to do a post on something other than my kids...:D

Hosted by Cecily and Lolli

Special New Cousin

2010-02-04T13:50:00.000-08:00

This is a very special picture.

Not just because my baby is in it.

Or because my very first nephew is sitting next to him.

It's special because it marks the end AND beginning of an amazing journey for my little sis.

Three years ago in March, unwed and in high school, she placed her baby girl with a loving family because she wanted her to have more.

Then last January, she held her precious baby daughter's hand as she slipped away after only a few short days of life.

Then, on a special day that he and my Bubba share, she brought her first son, my first nephew, into this world.

And two days later, she FINALLY got to bring home her baby.

And yes, we are all THAT excited!

How it's gonna be

2010-01-21T20:20:00.001-08:00

He may be my little "Ogre"now, but it won't last forever.

He may cry about cleaning up his toys, but one day he won't want to be home long enough to make a mess.

He may need to be bribed with broccoli or green beans to eat his spaggetti, but once he realizes vegetables are good for you, I'm certain this will change.

He might say forbidden words like "Stupid" and "Shut-up" when he gets mad, but one day I'm sure he'll slip much worse.

He torments and teases his brother now, taking away toys just because he's bigger, but one day Stink will be big enough to fight back.

But this is gonna last Forever. Always looking over his little brother's shoulder, and always there when he needs someone to lean on.

And vice-versa.
I pitty the kid who decides to take on these two...

MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!

2009-12-17T20:38:00.000-08:00

These next few weeks are busy ones for us, so we just wanted to drop a post and say Merry Christmas from our family to yours!

Hosted by Cecily and Honey Mommy

Santa Baby

2009-12-04T08:33:00.001-08:00

Our Little Stink turned five months old this past week, and since we never miss even the smallest opportunity to snap some photos, we got out the Christmas lights and Santa hat, and played around a little with our camera, flashless.

Notice the drool?

He cut his first tooth this same day.Ah! teething....

Hosted by Cecily

Happy Grumpy Thanksgiving!

2009-11-27T05:15:00.000-08:00

He didn't go to bed until midnight the night before. Then, because everyone else was doing it, he woke up at 6:30. Dinner fell right at the begining of nap, so he didn't get one of those, either. Oh Boy was he grumpy! and Tired!!! He wet his pants THREE times (which is often a sign of exhaustion for the poor little guy).

On days like today, you really have to stop and realize what Thanksgiving is all about. Family (Who loves you and puts up with your cranky toddler without complaint) Food (even if it's consumption leads you to a coma) Memories (racing around the kitchen to get everything done, running into others in the process).

Ok, so maybe it wasn't HIM who was grumpy...

And it sure makes you grateful for the 364 OTHER days we DON'T get up early to bake a turkey.
So Happy Thanksgiving all! Even if it is a grumpy one!

Hosted by Cecily

Ya see something new every day...

2009-11-19T13:17:00.001-08:00

Have you ever seen a lion blow bubbles?

He smiles, too, which is something I've never heard of.

And his closest relative?

Yup, he's a scarecrow.

You see something new every day

Hosted by Cecily and Sue

Lessons Learned

2009-11-12T14:41:00.000-08:00

Things We've learned this past month:
1. Infant Reflux STINKS, but Prevacid works GREAT!

2.It's hard to explain to a toddler why all the leaves fell off the trees, and even harder to keep him from jumping in the huge pile it took you two hours to rake.

3. It is difficult to be taken seriously by the previously mentioned toddler when you have hiccups.

4. Little Brothers are NOT good at catching balls that are thrown at their heads

5. Even the Craziest, Wildest, highest-energy little boys make ADORABLE big brothers.

Hosted by Cecily and She's a moron and can't remember...

3 months young

2009-10-25T15:42:00.000-07:00

K, so this has been a long time coming, as he will be four months old in a little over a week, but things get busy, people get sick, trains get stuck in lotion-puddles...

You know the drill. Anyway, here is our little stud at three months.

My Mommy

2009-10-02T18:44:00.000-07:00

This beautiful woman is my Mommy.

She will always be my "Mommy".

To my children, she is "Mamaw".

She raised me to adulthood, and all by herself, too.

My children and husband adore her.

She brings light wherever she goes.

She is my hero.

Hosted by Cecily and Linds

My Boys

2009-09-24T07:46:00.001-07:00

These are my boys.

They are, in any single day, messy, stinky, naughty, silly, noisy, lovable, and amazing.

They are my angels!

I may not know much about being a good mom.

Possibly because Someone forgot to send me an instruction manual .

I don't always know what's wrong or how to fix it.

And I'm not sure how you can love two little people so much.

All I know is that I do, and they are growing up way to fast...

Hosted by Cecily and Sports Mama

Two Months Old!!!

2009-09-03T14:03:00.000-07:00

Our Little Stink is two months old already! I can't believe how fast it has gone. He weighs 11lbs 2oz and is 23 inches long! He is such a happy, content child. I got some good ones of him when he was upset. Since it doesn't happen very often, I just couldn't resist. We just love him so much!

Silly Bubba

2009-08-27T19:57:00.000-07:00

Bubba is such a silly little two-year-old! He decided, after the baby was finished with his bath the other night, that he needed to take a bath in the baby tub. He thought it was the most fun thing he'd done all day. Sometimes he says the darndest things.

Today, I was holding the baby, and Bub walked up and licked him on his forehead. I said "That's yuck, Bub!" He ignored me, and said to Stink "Baby, wanna bath?"

Such a BiG Boy!!!

2009-08-16T18:41:00.000-07:00

Stinker is six weeks old now, and growing like a weed! Our little piggy already weighs over ten pounds!!! He is sleeping 7-10 hours a night, which Mom is LOVING!!! Bubba loves being a big brother, and just can't get enough of his new baby.

And here is our cute little cheeser at six weeks!

Stink's Blessing

2009-08-05T12:00:00.000-07:00

Stinker is such a sweet baby, and an amazing little addition to our family. We celebrated his blessing on August 2. We had a lot of our wonderful friends and family come to support us, and the blessing, performed by Kyle, was beautiful. We partied afterward at my parent's house, where we ate til we were sick, roasted in the blazing heat, and laughed until we almost cried. Oh, and Bubba dropped his Sprite all over Shawn's new wife's skirt. Good times...

Just Playin

2009-07-30T10:51:00.001-07:00

Things in the Budge household are pretty great! Baby is sleeping well, Bubba is adjusting well, Mom and Dad are loving life. Stinker is four weeks old today, and I plan on taking some more pictures as soon as his blessing outfit is done.
I have been playing around with some pictures after being inspired by my cute cousin. Here are some I have done...

2009-07-26T17:36:00.000-07:00

My cute cousin took some cute pictures of my boys and made them look amazing. Here are the results! Enjoy!

Cute lil' stinkers

2009-07-17T17:40:00.000-07:00

Here are a few pics from our 2-week photo shoot. I think these little guys are pretty cute!

One Week Old!?!?

2009-07-10T16:39:00.000-07:00

I can't believe how fast the past week flew by. It semed like we waited forever for him to get here, and now my baby is a week old!! Here are some pics from the past week.
Headin home from the hospital

First Fourth of July!

First smile!!!
3 days old

4 days old

2 days old

HE'S HERE!!!!

2009-07-03T06:19:00.000-07:00

At 5:10 on July 2nd, Our little Stinker decided to grace the world with his presence! Finally!! Well, he really had no choice in the matter as my doctor made me get started at 41 weeks and 1 day, but after much protest, an only half-working epidural, lots and LOTS of pushing (his head got a little stuck), he flew out, cuter than even possible!! He was 7lbs 13 oz, 20 inches long. He has dark blonde hair, which will most likely turn toe-head-ish like Bub, and long LONG fingers and toes. Mom and Dad couldn't be happier!! We feel so blessed to be adding another perfect angel to our little family!! Jaxon was a little scared of the baby, telling us he was "all done baby" several times, but he was content in looking at him and smiling, just no touching :D Mom and baby are both doing really well, and we should be headed out of here on Saturday. Welcome to the world, our new Little Firecracker!!!

A Little bit of excitement...

2009-06-30T17:08:00.000-07:00

I think not! Here we sit, six days late, and still no baby. I guess he just really wants to be a July kid!

Still waiting...

2009-06-25T13:33:00.000-07:00

we went to the doctor on Tuesday, and nothing has changed. Everything still looks good, but baby is just waiting until he is ready. The doc is starting me on Thursday because she doesn't want me to go too far over 41 weeks, so he'll for sure be here by July 2. I'm keeping my fingers crossed that he will come sooner, though.

Snug as a Bug

2009-06-20T14:23:00.000-07:00

Just an update on our current situation. Nothing has changed. Nothing. Amy is still pregnant, with no plans of this kid being here any time soon. He is just snug as a bug in a rug; although, the midnight hickups, feet under the ribs, and many middle-of-the-night potty runs are deffinately starting to get to Mom. He is due in 4 days, but since Bub was ten days late, that could make still two weeks out!! We'll plan for the 4th of July, and if you haven't heard anything by then, just assume the baby made it safely here. Either that or Amy gave in, and is simply planning on being pregnant with this child FOREVER! Here are a few random old pictures off of Kyle's phone of Bubba. What a cutie!!

Update

2009-06-04T13:47:00.000-07:00

I was just looking through my blog list, wondering where a few people have gone since they never post or comment anymore, and I realized that I am one of those people. I get on here almost every day, read everyone's updates, but don't comment or post an updat of my own. I'm sure it's because I don't have anything exciting to say, but just the fact that I am alive is a miracle in itself, so I will be better :D Nothing new here to report. Baby is doing good for now. We had a scare last week when his heart took a dive, but after six hours in the hospital, a couple reassuring ultrasounds, and no more signs of any major problems, we were able to come home, having avoided a very close-call for an emergency C-section. He seems to be doing fine. getting fat and happy (the kid already weighs 7 lbs or more...) Bubba is funny. He is getting excited for his new brother now that the bassinette is in our room,and bags are packed for the hospital(which, until this scare, they were not...I am a procrastinator, and almost brought this kid into the world not having a single diaper or, heaven forbid, the video camera!!). He loves having his cousins close (as do I) and is just growing into such a little man. Inevidably, he is not my little baby anymore, but I like him as a big-boy too :D

A little motivation...

2009-05-10T14:45:00.000-07:00

Ok so if anyone out there thinks it is too late or that they are too far behind to start scrapbooking, let me just tell you that I just barely finished scrapping Bubba's first year. That's right, I'm not ashamed. I'm hoping this might give some of you other procrastinators out there a little encouragement. Hope is not lost! Anyway, it's been a while since I posted one, so here ya go. This is from Bub's sad seventh month. He was all over the place and was already having a hard time being told no. Little did I know, the fun had just begun :D

2009-04-21T07:45:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was the perfect day for a trip to the duck pond. Unfortunately, there were more seagulls there than actual ducks, but we had fun nonetheless.

Our little daredevil had no fear when it came to standing right next to the geese, which didn't seem to bother them much either.

The kids feeding the seagulls

Bub running away from the seagulls

Happy Easter!!!

2009-04-13T06:57:00.000-07:00

Easter was a fun time for everyone at the Budge house. It was full of Easter Egg hunts, TONS of candy, and lots of love. Here are a few of our fav. pics.

rong around the rosies!

Cute Cheeser!
He was trying to start a trend...didn't catch on

Our Generous gifts from the Easter bunny. Bubba got TWO baskets full!

Easter Egg Hunt at Mamau and Gramp's house

We Found Gramp's Hair!!!

Hunt at Grandma and Grandpa's house

2009-04-07T12:46:00.000-07:00

Here are a few random pics from the past few weeks. We have been working on gettting our yard ready to lay sod, so we've been spending a lot of time in the back yard. Bub loves being outside and I'm sure will love having a nice place to play!

As I said, he just LOVES being outside :D

This is the layout I JUST DID for Bubba's ultrasound pictures. Go

me!

Kyle bought Bub this new "bakaball hoop" one night when I was at school. He loves it, and is pretty good!

Bub was being silly with his cowboy hat. Kyle said this pic was his fav.

2009-03-29T16:59:00.001-07:00

Nothing really new to report, just trying to finish up with school. Bubba is all done potty training, although he has an accident every few days (to be expected) He is excited for his baby "Super Baby" to come soon, and Kyle is still busy as ever. This layout is from when Bub won the Duke of Washington Terrace. He is pretty stinkin cute.

2009-03-19T19:32:00.000-07:00

This one is simple, but I love the animal Cracker paper. Plus, Bub has the cutest smile in the bottom picture

2009-03-12T16:33:00.000-07:00

This weeks layout is of our family pictures in March of 2007. Bubba was in a terrible mood that day, but the pictures turned out good reguardless.

Little Love

2009-03-06T07:31:00.000-08:00

Grandma caught some way cute smiles from Bub around Valentines Day, when he was about two months old. The pug in the picture, Sadie, died shortly after these were taken, and since she was a member of the Budge family for so long, I included the picture. You can't really tell from the picture, but the white paper on the bottom is embossed with little hearts. Way cute!

2009-02-26T17:21:00.000-08:00

I've been working today on Bubba's scrapbook (I'm only 14 months behind) and thought it might be fun to post one of my favorite layouts once-in-a-while. I finished this layout today with the family pictures we took last month.

Trip To Idaho

2009-02-25T07:34:00.000-08:00

We recently took a quick trip to Idaho following the sudden passing of my oldest sister Jenni. The occasion was a very sad one, but it is so nice to be able to be around family during hard times like these.

on a less-serious note, Bub is doing great with his potty! He made it the whole 6-hour drive to Idaho without any accidents, and almost the whole way home(he fell asleep, so that doesn't really count, right?) We had to stop for a road-side potty-break and it was too cute not to capture for future blackmale.

Bubba's Creations

2009-02-25T07:25:00.000-08:00

Bubba just loves to create stuff. Whether he's helping make pancakes, lining up his "choo-choos" or balls, or making up words to a new song, the kids is always doing something creative.

Just a little serious

2009-02-12T08:11:00.000-08:00

On Tuesday I got to go with my sister and her husband to the temple for their sealing. They had a baby girl pass away last month, and asked me to stand proxy for her in the temple. I was so excited and honored, and it was the most amazing feeling in the world to be there. There wasn't a dry eye in the room that day, as everyone could feel sweeit little Capri's spirit there rejoicing along with us. I hope I never know what it feels like to lose a child, but if I do, I hope to be able to be as strong as Kelley has been. Her faith in the atonement and the blessings of the temple are incredible considering what she has gone through, and I am just so proud to be her big sister. I'm grateful for the blessings of the temple in my life, and that I know I will be with my family forever.

And the sex is....

2009-02-05T13:03:00.000-08:00

We had an ultrasound today, and guess what???? I got this off a friends blog, and you'll all have to read it to find out what we're having :D I'm going to do it for both my pregnancies

1. WAS YOUR FIRST PREGNANCY PLANNED? yes to both

2. WERE YOU MARRIED AT THE TIME? Yes to both

3. WHAT WERE YOUR REACTIONS? Bubba: Excited, sort of surreal, up until the minute he was born. baby: Way excited, and scared to death!

4. WAS ABORTION AN OPTION FOR YOU? Never

5. HOW OLD WERE YOU? Bubba: 21, baby: 23

6. HOW DID YOU FIND OUT YOU WERE PREGNANT? home pregnancy test

7. WHO DID YOU TELL FIRST? Kyle, then our parents and siblings

8. DID YOU WANT TO FIND OUT THE SEX? Bubba: yes Baby: at first no, but I couldn't wait
9. DUE DATE? Bubba:11/26/2005, Baby :6/24/2009

10. DID YOU HAVE MORNING SICKNESS? Bubba: I was nauseated the whole time, but never really sick Baby: never been sicker in my life!! Only during the first trimester, though :D

11. WHAT DID YOU CRAVE? Bubba: I don't remember craving anything in particular...probably those sausage and pancake corndog things. SO GOOD! Baby: Juice, fruit, anything sweet.

12. WHO/WHAT IRRITATED YOU THE MOST? Bubba: no one could tell I was pregnant so there was no sympathy. Baby: Everything, mostly the weight I've gained :(

13. WHAT WAS YOUR FIRST CHILD'S SEX?Bubba: Boy, Baby: BOY!!!!Surprise!!!!

14. DID YOU WISH YOU HAD THE OPPOSITE SEX OF WHAT YOU WERE GETTING? Bubba: I always wanted a big brother, so I was way excited that my kids would have one. Plus, he is the first boy in my whole family(on my side) Baby:I thought it was a girl, but was very surprised. I wanted a boy, mostly for it's sake, since Bubba is pretty rough. We're SO excited!

15. HOW MANY POUNDS DID YOU GAIN THROUGHOUT THE PREGNANCY? Bubba: 15(I was overweight to begin with) Baby: So far...19, and I'm only half way done :S

16. DID YOU HAVE A BABY SHOWER?Bubba: yes, I had three Baby: No

17. WAS IT A SURPRISE OR DID YOU KNOW? I knew about all of them

18. DID YOU HAVE ANY COMPLICATIONS DURING YOUR PREGNANCY?Bubba: Not really, I tore pretty bad during the delivery, but everything else was good. Baby: So far, none, except I lost 14 lbs during the first trimester.

19. WHERE DID YOU GIVE BIRTH? Bubba: Ogden Regional, Baby:McKay Dee

20. HOW MANY HOURS WERE YOU IN LABOR? Bubba: 4, Baby: Dr. is worried cause they supposedly come faster

21. WHO DROVE YOU TO THE HOSPITAL? Kyle

22. WHO WATCHED YOU GIVE BIRTH? Kyle and the doc and nurses

23. WAS IT NATURAL OR C-SECTION? Natural

24. DID YOU TAKE MEDICINE TO EASE THE PAIN? Yes and planning to again!

27. HOW MUCH DID YOUR CHILD WEIGH? Bubba: 7lbs, Baby: so far 1.5

28. WHEN WAS YOUR CHILD ACTUALLY BORN ? Bubba: 12/6/2005, Baby:better NOT be ten days late!

31. HOW OLD IS YOUR FIRST BORN TODAY? 2

SEROUSLY?!

2009-01-29T09:35:00.000-08:00

Havin just turned 2, Bubba is a big boy who learns fast and is very smart. He loves to run around the house naked, and since I am somewhat of a germ-aphobe, I told him if he wants his diaper off, he had to sit on the potty and try to go so we didn't have pee all over the floor. He has had lots of accidents, and each time, I clean it up, and tell him that he can't go potty on the floor, and put his diaper back on. I was always sure not to make him feel bad or like he was in trouble, but he caught on. All of a sudden two days ago, he came to me, holding himself, and said he had to poop. I got excited and ran with him to the bathroom, where he actually peed! Now he is regularly going #1 and #2 with just a few accidents!!

Now, whenever we are home, he gets to be "Nay-kid", and has been doing so great telling me when he needs to go! He even went in this morning and went #2 without telling me, and came out saying "Good Job!" to himself. With the baby coming in less than five months, I'm SO glad that he decided he is ready so maybe we wont have to buy twice the amount of diapers. We bought him his first pairs of big-boy underwear, with Cars on them, and he is so proud! I just love that little man!

Families are Forever!

2009-01-28T10:46:00.000-08:00

I am so glad for the knowledge that i have that Fmailies can be together forever! Because of the passing of Kelley's baby girl Capri, we had the whole family together for the first time with all our husbands, so we decided to do family pictures. Everyone looked so great!

Bubba's 2-year pics

2009-01-28T10:32:00.000-08:00

So, the main reason we decided to get such a nice camera was because every time we took Bubba to get his pictures taken professionally, it was hard to get him to smile, and I never really liked the look of pictures taken indoors, so this way I can take them myself and not have to pay a ton for pictures that I might not really love. Here are some I took to celebrate his 2nd birthday.

We're Back!

2009-01-28T10:16:00.000-08:00

So, our power cord on our laptop broke, and we have been out of commission for a few weeks, but we're back on track. I FINALLY got my new camera, and I LOVE IT!! I took some funny pics just to try it out, I especially love the one of Kyle.

Bored Much?

2009-01-03T14:44:00.000-08:00

Today was Kyle's first Saturday back at work in a few months, and I was working tediously in the kitchen, so Bubba got a little bored and tried to entertain himself. First he made a "choo-choo" out of Ritz crackers, which I thought was pretty creative and impressive for a two-year-old. Then, when that got old, he decided to take a marker to our bedroom door and his face. Thanks goodness it was wet-erase!

2008-12-25T14:47:00.000-08:00

MERRY CHRISTMAS! realizing that the majority of you will be reading this AFTER the fact, we hope you all had a wonderful day and that Santa brought you all the good things you wanted! Here are some cute pics of Bub opening his presents in his new Jammas! Yes, they were still taken by our crappy camera and are mostly fuzzy, but Santa couldn't afford my new car and a new camera, so when tax returns come, he promised he would make it up to me!

The Flu Who Stole Christmas

2008-12-18T23:28:00.000-08:00

Bubba has been one sick little boy, so anyone thinking about bringing me those yummy Christmas goodies I know you are all making me, just leave them on my porch so you don't catch his bug. It all started on Wednesday Morning, around 12:30 am, when I woke up to Bubba sobbing about "Yucky poop". I went into his room, half expecting something out of his diaper, but found something just as gross and equally smelly from the other end. He then continued to vomit every 5-15 mminutes THE WHOLE NIGHT! He wasn't able to stop until 12:27 the following afternoon. Twelve hours of family fun. Then he was fine the whole day, just extra cute and snuggly. Then around 2:30ish the following morning, he started again. This time, he asked to watch the Grinch, since I had put it on as something to occupy him between hurles the night before. It wasn't as bad as before, as it only happened once, and he didn;t get it on his favorite blanket so I didn't have to worry about the laundary until the next morning. Then he was fine again all day Thursday, and slept great all night. Then this morning, the bug took out all stops and plegded an attack on our little house. First on the rug, which conveniently followed Bubba's consumption of purple Gatorade. Then it started coming out the other end, and Bub was just a mess. He would follow me around, saying my name, and just moaning. He didn't eat hardly anything all day, except some salad and peanut butter bread, but thanks to the flu-who-stole-Christmas, the puking started again tonight at 11:30. And here I sit... Watching the Grinch (of course)... Waiting for the favorite blankie to finish in the dryer... Oh the joys of the season (and motherhood).

Not passing puppies

2008-12-11T17:36:00.001-08:00

For those of you who have talked to Bubba about the new addition to our family, we went to the doctor today and it was confirmed. We are NOT having a litter of puppies! It is, indeed, one very small human child who is due the 24th of June. Sorry to disappoint you Bub. You cannot "pass" and have "puppies" instead.

Interestingly enough

2008-12-07T17:46:00.000-08:00

So, I am feeling particulary blessed right now. I've been feeling a lot better now that i am approaching my twelfth week, so that in itself is a blessing. When I was pregnant with Bub,I had some blood tests done that determined that I have a Dominant genetic disorder called factor 5 Lydin, or Thrombophilia. Shortly after Bubba was born, I found out that I had developed hypothyroidism, meaning my thyroid doesn't function as it should. I've learned this week that a lot of women with either of these conditions have problems with infertility and miscarriage. Having both makes my risk just that much greater, but here I am, complaining of a sickness that some women will never get the chance to experience. at first, I felt guilty and ungrateful, but now I'm simply feeling blessed. I love being a mom, and am grateful for the opportunity I have to do so :D

Another Bubba-ism

2008-12-02T13:57:00.001-08:00

So yesterday, I was sitting on the couch, trying to keep myself from getting sick, and Bubba was being WAY too quiet. I heard him making small noises in the kitchen, and then a second later, he peeked his head in the room, with an "I'm in trouble" look on his face, and said "Oh no! Poop!" hmmm. No dogs inside, so probably not poop. No worries! I walked into the kitchen, and saw the naked caboose of my son. He had told the truth! He took his diaper off, needed to go, and went... All over my kitchen floor...I actually laughed, as disgusting as it sounds, and wrote about it in his journal for use as future black mail :D what a silly boy!

Full of Thanks

2008-11-25T08:25:00.000-08:00

I figure that now is one of the best times of year to express the many things I am grateful for. I know that i won't be able to list everything, but here are a few of my greatest blessings (in no particular order)...
My wonderful Husband- He works SO hard going to school full-time and working all the overtime he can get so that I can stay home with Jaxon. He also puts up with a lot from me, expecially when I'm pregnant.
My Beautiful Son-He brings so much joy into my life, and I couldn't imagine the world without his beautiful smile. I love his smell, his dimples, his thick blonde hair, his sweet little voice, how he gets so excited about everything, the love he has for life and everyone/everything in it, and most of all that he is part of my Forever Family.
My Savior- This goes without saying, but I owe everything I have, everything I am, and everything I'm going to be to my Savior. Life would be pretty sad and lonely at times if i didn't know he was always there.
saltine crackers-Just about the only thing I can eat some days, these crackers are keeping me from completely wasting away.
my house- It may not be very big, and like a hundred years old, but the heater works and keeps my family warm. I enjoy the comforts of electric everything. I can have warm water on demand. And its a place to raise my family and teach them the gospel.
My Huge family-Between our parents, Kyle's 5 brothers and sister, my 10 brothers and sisters, 17 neices and nephews, all our cousins and aunts and uncles, there is always someone there when you need them.
My Awesome friends-I think I have the coolest friends in the world! Ones who have helped us fix our car when they had no idea that money was very tight. Ones who have helped us side our home, and make it look so much better. Ones who we can call for any favor, and know that they will help us if they can.
My freedom- I wouldn't be able to enjoy many of the things I do if it weren't for where I was lucky enough to be born. I'm grateful for the freedom that I never personally had to fight for, but that so many lost their lives over
I know there are so many more things I could list, but one of my biggest blessings wants some milk, so I think I've done a pretty good job of summing it up. I'm just thankful for this time of year. For the feeling in the air that comes with the season. Most of all, I'm thankful to be alive.

Announcement and suggestions?

2008-11-18T11:10:00.000-08:00

Word is starting to get around, so I thought I would let everyone know that WE ARE EXPECTING!!! We are SO excited! I am due the 26 of June, and am about 9 weeks along. I have NEVER been so sick in my life. I think if it had been like this with Bub, he might have been an only child. I'm usually only nauseated during the day, but at night, I can't do anything. I can't eat anything but oatmeal, toast, soda crackers, and water, and I can only eat a couple crackers passed 4, or I'm up all night. Believe me, I try other foods when they sound good, but it never stays down for very long, and then whatever I tried can't even be smelled or I vomit. I'm SO nauseated, and my sides and back are sore and tired from the constant puking. UGH! i don't know if the huge difference between this pregnancy and the last one has to do with my thyroid problem, my 60 lb weight loss, or something else, but I've already lost another 9 lbs in these nine weeks, and am hoping and praying that this is a "first trimester" thing, and will be over soon. Poor Bubba and Kyle have to deal with my moodiness, and they are such troopers. Don't get me wrong, I'm so excited for Bubba to be a big brother and to have another child in our family, but this stinks. Does anyone have any suggestions as to what I might try that will make me feel better? Anything that is easy to keep down that I haven't thought of? Anyway, it really IS happy news.

Move that bus

2008-11-16T16:16:00.000-08:00

Ok, so I'm sitting here right now, checkin my blog, and the news just happens to be on. Bubba is playing by himself very nicely, and a story came on the news about the Proposition 8 protests. The people were walking around holding signs, and I saw Bubba get a little gleem in his eye. He walked up to the television, started punching his arm up and down, and saying "Moo ba bus, Moo ba bus". then he turned aroung with his big heart-melting grin that says "I'm so smart" Anyone who watches Extreme Makeover, Home Edition, might know why he was a little confused. It was hilarious, so I thought everyone would appreciate reading about it.

So Sad!

2008-11-02T19:24:00.000-08:00

So, we went to Idaho for Halloween because my nephew was baptised on Saturday, and my niece was blessed on Sunday. They were both awesome experiences for everyone involved, except Bubba. He has been SO sick, which stunk since we stayed with my brother and sister-in-law, who have three small children, and were around everyone else with all their children. At first, we thought he was just cutting his two-year molars, but he has been lethargic, quiet, sleepy all day, only wanting to snuggle, which is VERY unlike him. Especially when other children are involved. He is still sick, with a fever of 101, and just moans and won't let us put him down. Poor baby :( Thank goodness for Motrin and Tylenol! And family members who promised they won't hate me if all their kids get sick too :S

New Bow Blog

2008-10-21T17:50:00.000-07:00

I have a new blog under our name. It is http://blossomingbows.blogspot.com/, and it lists all my handmade bows, headbands, and flowers. I'm still working on it, but check it out and let me know what you think. thanks!

Little Blessing

2008-10-14T20:24:00.000-07:00

I know I've posted today already, but I have to tell everyone the cutest thing that just happened. My little stud and I were saying our evening prayers, and for the first time, he decided to help me. When I started "Heavenly Father" he copied me. Then I said "thank you for our blessings", and he mumbled his own version of what he thought I said. Then I went on, and after everything I said after that, he said "and Daddy", "my Daddy","Daddy" It was so sweet because even with the little amount of knowledge that he has about praying, he knows that we always bless his Daddy, and he wanted to make sure I didn'y forget. That just goes to show me that he really does listen to what I say, and maybe, just maybe, I am doing something right.

Funnies By Bub

2008-10-14T13:49:00.000-07:00

Well, Bubba is 22 months old now, and funny as heck! He talks non-stop, usually to his stuffed animals or "babies", and mostly about nothing. Sometimes, though, he comes up with the funniest things. Kyle has started working graves, so he is usually not home when Bub goes to bed. The other day when we woke up, Bubba walked into the front room, looked around, and said "There Daddy shoes. Where Daddy?" It was so funny! I guess it stands to reason that if Daddy's shoes are sitting on the ground, daddy must be somewhere around here. Anyway, He is so funny and makes me laugh everyday! PS this picture just shows how crappy my camera is, and why I'm that much more excited to be getting my new one!!

SHHHH! It's a Secret...

2008-10-13T15:23:00.001-07:00

So, I found out not only what I'm getting for my birthday next week(on the 22, I'm sure you already knew that :D), but I also know what I'm getting for Christmas!!! Yay! Kyle is getting me a portable GPS system, which if anyone has ever driven anywhere with me, you know why:D And for Christmas he is getting me the Canon EOS Kiss X2 / Digital Rebel xSi. I'm still deciding between the silver one and the black one...any ideas? I'm so excited, but I'm not waiting til Christmas to get it cause I need it for Bubba's 2-year pics and our Christmas card photo. Anyway, don't tell anyone cause it's a secret :D

Just the boys.

2008-10-12T16:38:00.000-07:00

Bub is a big daddy's boy. Since Kyle started working graves, sometimes at night Bubba goes
around crying for his daddy. When he's home, Bub just can't get enugh of him. He also loves to give kisses to his Mommy :D

2008-10-01T13:10:00.000-07:00

This summer, Kyle and I took a little trip down to St. George with some dear friends. Thanks so Mamau and Gramp, who watched Bub during our four-day adventure, we were able to have fun in the sun going to Vegas, swimming, eating way too much, and taking lots of naps ;D.

We also were able to take Bub to his first baseball game, where he got a fly ball and a t-shirt, and fell down the back of the folding seat. To sum it up, we took a little over-night trip with some other great friends to Park City where we ate, ran in the rain, showed off our amazing syncronized swimming skills, and stayed up late battling over a game of Trouble. This summer was way too short, but lots of fun!!

Hookie, Puppies, and the Legend of the Lost Sippie

2008-09-22T20:35:00.000-07:00

Well, this weekend was our stake conference, so naturally, we took a little break. I teach primary, so when I get a chance to get a weekend off, watch out. They had announced it for six months, which was obviously so people could plan ahead of time to be out of town. haha, maybe not, but our little over-nighter to Park city with Tyler and Jaime was way fun. No babies, no bed-time, just crazy up-all-night fun(really, we were in bed by midnight). Thanks, friends!

We still have a male puppy and two female puppies of anyone knows anyone who is interested. Seriously, they are the cutest things ever!!

Bub is adorable. Kyle started working graves so he could go to school during the day, and Bubba walks around at night just crying for Daddy. He caught a football last night several times all by himself, and he's not even two. He also knows which letters of the alphabet are which, and how to count to two :D lol, he is a smarty pants!

We took Bub to the Zoo for the first time, and he loved it. He even tried giving his sippy to the monkey in the metal ball. Luckily, the monkey was being fed, and the nice lady with the bananas retrieved the otherwise lost-forever sippy.

Back to School

2008-09-01T16:55:00.000-07:00

Well, school is back in session, and it looks like it's going ot be a long semester. My classes seem pretty easy, but Kyle had to switch to night shift. He goes to work at 5p, gets home at 5:30a, sleeps until 8:30 a, goes to school until noon, comes home at 12:30 and sleeps until 4:30, then goes to work again by 5. So far he has been doing ok, but I know I would DIE with that small amount of sleep. Oh well, he IS superman, ya know?

2008-08-06T07:21:00.000-07:00

Zoey, our miniature Schnauzer, had puppies six weeks ago, and they are ready to go home! I love Schnauzers

because they don't shed since they have hair, and not fur. We still have a male and three females that we haven't sold, but we are working on it! They are SO cute!!! Bubba loves to pull them around in the wagon that we take them outside in. It is very cute! He also shares his blankie with them, and loves giving them kisses. If anyone knows anyone who wants one...they are AKC registered and are so sweet! Ready to go home on Thursday...

EXCITEMENT!!!

2008-08-06T07:17:00.000-07:00

I am so Excited!1 Kyle passed all of his 17 credits, and I am so proud of him! He had a rough semester, but he did it!! We're bith taking it easier next semester, which should be nice! Kyle and I are headed to St. George next week for a little fun in the...air conditioner. Bub is staying with my mom, which is good because it will be so hot I'm sure we won't do anything that he would think was fun. We are going to Tuachan to see Les Mes, and to Vegas. I;m pretty excited, but I;ve never been away from Bubba over night, and this will be for four....

SO blessed

2008-07-30T11:18:00.000-07:00

Ok, so summer semester is almomst over (on Friday, YAY!) and Kyle and I took our last Chemestry test on Monday. Kyle had studied his little heart out, and did WAY better on this test than any of the other big ones, but his final grade was a C-, meaning that he would have to take the time and spend the money to retake the five credits, not to mention that his work wouldn't reimburse us for the class because he didn't pass. Well, we were really bumbed, but then we got an email from our teacher saying that he was grading on a curve, and to email him if we wanted to know our new grades. Kyle emailed him, and when he got the professor's response, he texted me "Yeah I got a C. I think I'm gonna pee my pants..." We were so excited. So he doesn't have to retake the stinkin class! We are SO blessed!

Summer Semester!!

2008-07-17T09:44:00.000-07:00

Well, Summer semester is coming to a close, and I am so ready to be done with school. I don't even remember why I went back :D My poor family has been severly neglected! I haven't made a home-cooked meal more than maybe twice the whole semester! My hoouse is dirtier than it's ever been, and I just can't justify doing either of these things very often. I have a KILLER pathophysiology class this semester that takes up most of my time, and when I'm not studying for that, I have to play with Jax cause I don't want him to be sad. He has started crying whenever I go to my mom's cause he thinks I am going to leave him there, like I do when I go to school or have to take a test. There are a few good things that have come out of this, though. I have decided to cut my load next semester to 13 credits instead of the 17 I was registered for, and they are all pretty easy classes, so that should help A TON. I only have two semesters left, and I can be done forever if I want. Kyle has realized how much he doesn't like me going to school, so he's totally fine if I never go back. I may someday, but for now, I'm very much looking forward to the end!

Boy Boo-Boos

2008-06-14T14:07:00.001-07:00

Bubba is a boy who is full of bumps and bruises, and has had WAY too many to count.He got the one on the right when he was walking in the hall and fell, hitting his head right on the corner of the wall. The other he got when he fell off a chair at Mamau's house. He smacked his lip, chin, and cheek on the tile floor of had a bloody nose. Boys and their boo-boos!

Bubba's First Trip to Lagoon

2008-06-14T14:02:00.000-07:00

Bubba and I went to Lagoon with my Friend Jamie and her son, who is Bubba's bud. We only got to go on the choo-choo, but it was fun. Bub liked looking at all the animals, but when we got to the cage that had a big toy ball in it, he about jumped out of his seat. It was a fun day!

2008-06-14T13:53:00.000-07:00

School n stuff

2008-06-14T13:42:00.000-07:00

School is going well...I think. Kyle is still doing all his credits, but I had to drop a class at the request of one of my professors. He didn't like me doing Patho and Microbiology at the same time. So I'm doing 15 now, which keeps me busy. Bubba is so funny! He was entered in the Washington Terrace Baby contest again yesterday, and there were a ton of kids in his age group. he got runner-up for King, but we were kind of glad because we got to go to the parade this morning instead of having to be in it. :D We all know he is the cutest boy ever! He loves "Choo-Choos" and making noises of dogs, cats, birds, sheep, and most recently, monkeys. He talks and signs and can get his point across really well. We had to teach him "help" in sign and speach because his tantrums were getting crazy, but he has caught on, and asks for "hep" all the time. Kyle is busy working and going to school, so there isn't much time for studying, but he is doing well he says :D. We are all happy and healthy and just doing great!

Spring semester

2008-04-23T06:51:00.000-07:00

Well...Spring semester is coming to a close, and summer is just around the corner. Kyle and I are both taking 18 credits this summer...this should be interesting :D We are taking 8 of those together, so at least we can study together. We both just want to be DONE!! Bubba is so funny. His first sentance was "where's Daddy go?" and "where's Kyle go?" pretty good for only 15 months, but its true that Daddy is a very busy boy. But, no pain no gain, and when he gets his degree, not only will he be making more money(yay) but I think he'll have a sense of accomplishment that he did something great all by himself. We got our clogg fixed by Royal Flush-they did a great job and they offer a 30 day guarantee. their price was only $89, which was way better than some of the other places we called. Things are great, just trying to make it through Kyle's finals. Life is grand!