The Ward Family

Zealynn Marie Todd

2012-02-15T18:30:00.000-08:00

Tired boy. I was putting Jocelynn to bed and he fell asleep on Grandma.

When we drove to Wyoming my sister said there wasn't much snow this year. I was expecting to see the grass and laughed when we got there. There was a cold breeze but we were able to go out for a little bit one day and the kids loved it! It was Carter's first time in the snow. He kept hitting it, of course!

Jocie and Micah, 8. He is so sweet to her!

Carter slept pretty good. He ended up sleeping on this bed with me. Naps I had a keep lying him down until he realized I wasn't going to give in and fell asleep.

Cousins Jaeger 4, Dylan, 6, Ryker, 2, Carter 1

Even Carter had a great time playing, as you can see from this smile

Doing all kinds of different moves

Jocelynn loves her cousins! I don't hear from her whenever we visit her cousins. It's pretty nice.

Jocelynn spoiled by her cousin Jordyn, getting her toenails painted!

Carter seemed old to me sitting next to Zealynn. He kept pointing to baby!

Sweetness!

Jocelynn holding her new cousin Zealynn

Three days after Christmas, the kids and I drove up with Melinda and her kids to Utah. I wasn't planning on coming to see my sister till Februrary but I knew once Zealynn came it would be hard for me not to come. Melinda said she would love to see her brother so we all went up. She has a big size car that fit everyone. Jocelynn was in heaven having a TV in the car and her new leapster to play with. I didn't here a word from her. We had a wonderful time, except for we all got the flu and I got my sister sick, that just had a baby :(

Christmas Day!

2012-01-07T20:25:00.000-08:00

Jocelynn singing with Elmo

Carter happy about his Elmo present from Uncle Bill.

My parents were in Utah because Jessica had Zealynn so my Grandma and Uncle Bill spent Christmas evening with us for dinner. I wasn't happy with how the scalloped potatoes and ham came out but it was edible. We had a nice time visiting together and opening presents.

Cousins!

After church, James sister and family came over for brunch. We had eggs, with sausage, peppers and cheese and hash brown, bacon and cinnamon rolls. It was so nice to visit together.

All ready for church!

I love these smiles Carter gives below. He had a fun time with the toys especially this baseball toy.

Christmas Day Jocelynn woke up at 630am. She was so cute and excited. I've never seen her so excited, ever! She said Merry Christmas mom and dad. She walked quickly downstairs and handed me a present. She said open it mom, open it. She then started talking a ton about how she heard and saw santa and the reindeer and she heard them on the roof. She couldn't believe he came, she kept saying I knew it mom, I knew he would come! All month she was so worried that she wasn't good enough and maybe he wouldn't come. I kept telling her not to worry and that I believe she is a good girl and he would come. Carter woke up at 645 and we opened presents. Jocelynn was so excited opening her presents. Each one she yelled out what it was and said she always wanted it!

The Night Before Christmas

2012-01-07T20:07:00.000-08:00

The beginning of December came and everyone was getting their trees up and lights up, not us. My parents were moving out the 9th or 10th and our Christmas decoration were still in storage. I could tell Jocelynn was having a hard time. She did not want me to forget that Christmas was coming. Finally on the 12th or 13th we got the decorations us. THe first of December I thought I needed to do something so she knew it was coming. I found something online called an advent book calendar. Every night you read a new Christmas story. I thought it would be expensive buying new books so we went to 3 different libraries and I found all the Christmas books I could find. This got her really excited. I wrapped each one in tissue paper, even Carter looked forward to opening a new story every night. The last book I saved was "The Night Before Christmas." On Christmas Day we read the story of Jesus.

We left cookies out and carrots and green beans for the reindeer.

The night we decorate the house the elves leave pajamas every year on the doorstep. They wear the pjs the month of december. I loved the reindeer feet!

The night before christmas they got to open their ornaments. Carter got a dog paw print ornament that says 2011 and we put his picture in it and Jocie got a Rapunzel ornament because she loves Tangled.

The love each other so much!

James sister and family came to visit from AZ. The kids had a blast playing with Keona! We loved having them here!

Christmas Baking and Jocelynn's Preschool

2012-01-07T19:55:00.000-08:00

I love Christmas time, especially because it's a reason to bake all the yummy things you don't all year. We made, magic bars, peanut butter bars, molasses cookies, choc chip and m & m cookies. Next time I want to do toffee. I love these matching aprons we got last year. Jocie loves helping me and especially eating it. We packaged them up and took them to neighbors and some of her friends in Sunbeams. It's a tradition now to carol. It's a little embarrassing but Jocelynn loves it!

Here are a couple of her friends from preschool, Gwen and Zane. They sang some cute Christmas songs and used bells to play songs.

Primary Activity and Sea World

2012-01-02T21:10:00.000-08:00

The primary had a little Christmas party. They rotated rooms. One of the rooms was decorated and they got the act out the Nativity. Jocelynn was an angel and looked so cute. She had a great time!

We went to Sea World and had a great time seeing everything decorated in Christmas. My parents moved out the middle of December. We didn't get out tree up till the 16th. Jocie was so concerned that I was forgetting about Christmas. It was nice to go there and get her excited. We loved playing in the snow, and seeing the elf and Mrs. Claus.

Black Friday

2012-01-02T21:06:00.000-08:00

So I didn't get any pics of Thanksgiving this year. We had a great time at Jeff and Katrina's house for dinner. I actually couldn't find my camera and then when I got to Jeff and Katrina's house I left it there. In the evening, I got the kids to bed and headed over to Toys R us. THis is my 3rd year and Melinda joined me this time. I have a great time going every year. Usually malls and stores are closed once the kids are in bed. It's nice to have a day to shop all night, with sales going on. We got some great deals and then headed over to the mall. I had such a great time and plan to go again next year!!

Month of October!

2011-11-27T21:16:00.000-08:00

Halloween night we went out with my mom and dad!

I didn't get pics of the kids trick or treating but they loved it. OUr street didn't have many trick or treaters so we went to another street where there were more. Carter quickly learned and wanted to walk up to every door. He'd quickly knock and then turn around and run. He loved holding his bucket and loved his lolly pops!

During the day Jocie had some friends over!

We had a spooky dinner the night before! Ghost mashed potatoes, cresent eyeballs, and witch chicken fingers!

The past couple of weeks its been raining a lot! My kids love mud and dirt and I don't mind that they play in it! It's good for them to feel different textures . . . right? :)

Carter loves to lie on Grandpa and watch Tangled!

We made pumpkin cookies and walked over to our neighbors and brought them some! I love Halloween, October is a fun month!

Super Family

2011-11-20T20:04:00.000-08:00

Ward Trunk or treat with Jocelynn's friend, John

Loved this costume, big cupcake

Sper great grandma, so cute!

Loved this! Jack Sparrow

Super family!

Jocelynn with her friend, Gwen walking the parade

Grandma and Great Grandma

Jocelynn eating chili. Our ward is amazing. An email was sent out that day that there wasn't enough chili and there ended up being 31 crock pots of chili!!

We also went to the Jergensons Halloween party.

Jocie's haunted house!

Love this picture!

SUPER girl! She is into super heroes these days!

Pumpkin Patch with Preschool

2011-11-13T20:22:00.000-08:00

Jocie loved feeding the goats!

Busy Bee Acadmey went to the pumpkin patch. They got to ride some rides, feed the animals and even got a pumpkin! She had a great time having fun with her friends from class!

Her cousin, Preston got to join us!

Carter really wanted to join his sister and was not very happy!

First Half Marathon

2011-10-25T06:59:00.000-07:00

I've been wanting to do a half marathon for awhile now. When I had Jocelynn my goal was to do a Sprint Triathlon. It got me back in shape and was so fun! My goal after my 2nd child is to do a half marathon! It's gotten me back in shape and I've learned a lot through running. Running is a lot like life! At times it feels good, and can be easy, other times you feel as if you can't do it and you want to give up but if you take one step at a time and mentally tell yourself that you can do it and get through it, you do!! I was running at the gym on a treadmill and when you are running 6 miles with no music, you have a lot of time to think. I think that is why I enjoy running also, you have so much time to think about life. I prefer not to have music, I like to think and reflect on my life and the things I need to do to become better. I signed up for my first half marathon. It's Nov 12th in Santa Barbara! I'm excited! James and I will go there for the weekend and my parents will watch the kids! I think anyone can run so if it's been awhile since you've ran start slow and short and gradually increase it! You will feel so good, I promise! It's hard at first but as you continue to do it you'll love it! Running makes me feel like I can do and accomplish anything!

Jessica's Baby shower

2011-10-24T10:06:00.000-07:00

My mom and I threw Jessica a baby shower. You can obviously tell I'm not a photography. After the party I realized I got no close ups of the food. We had a good time planning the party. We had different shades of purple and the theme was "Sprinkled with Love." The picture above is Oreo truffles, So good. The picture below is pretzel sticks dipped in white chocolate.

My mom made these amazing cupcakes! They looked professional!! Homemade frosting and everything. My sis in law took more pics at the shower.

I had a great time making these baby shoes filled with candy for the favors. Jess loves baby shoes and thought they'd be perfect.

Jess and her friends.

Jess with my grandma and her friend Jenny

All the yummy treats that are sprinkled with love!! Cake pops, truffles, cupcakes, pretzels dipped

It's a Girl!

Zealynn~

Jocie loved helping. She was filling the shoes with purple chocolate kisses. It was a nice shower. We had chicken salad sandwiches, fruit kabobs, and salad. We went inside for a couple games and we showed the video of Zealynn sucking her thumb. It's so cute!

Discipline

2011-10-23T21:37:00.000-07:00

So my Jocie is so sweet but like all children she can test the boundaries at times. I know that some children test the boundaries more then others. I haven't had the easiest time with her. As parents we want our children to listen and respect authority. Well what if they don't? I have tried all kinds. Time out, spanking, taking toys away, etc. Someone in our ward speaks at conferences for Moms. Go to powerofmoms.com to check out her site. She gave a class on discipline and I learned so much. She has a clip chart she uses for her children. I asked how old the kids were when she started using that. She said 5. I was thinking man, I've got to figure something out. Time out would not work for Jocelynn. She would be in hysterics and I'd finally hug her. She hates to get in trouble. I went to my friend Melinda's house and she showed me something she did. I loved it!!!! Perfect for this age and let me tell you, it has worked wonders for the past 6 months. Jocie still tests boundaries but she quickly changes her behavior when I mention I will move her clip. Here's how it works, I think it's perfect for ages beginning 3! -

Jocie and I made the faces together so she was involved
I usually give her a warning and if she does not stop the behavior, I simply tell her I will move her clip and she will not get a sticker for the day.
If she moves her clip again to the sad face with the tears, then we will not read her a book before bed and no sticker.
If she gets 5 stickers on her chart, she picks from the toy box.

When I started this we were very consistent with it! She hates when I say I will move her clip. She's a pleaser and does not like that Daddy will see that she got her clip moved. She has been really good so we haven't had to use it. Some days she brings it up and I tell her to put 2 stickers on her chart because we've gone 2 weeks without using it. The other day though I had to use it and it worked great. I don't have to yell or get upset. I know every child is different. She loves reading books before bed so this really upsets her. I know giving our children rules is important. I know the feeling of when you feel like things are out of control or you don't feel like you have a handle on your own child. I posted this because I thought it may help someone and you could try it with your own child!

SOLD

2011-10-13T21:14:00.000-07:00

I got a text from my brother last Thursday, he is my real estate agent. The text said "it's official! :)" It was 2 words I've been waiting to hear from him for a long time. It seemed unreal, really it sold? I've learned a lot from this experience. I remember 2 years ago, at this time, writing pros and cons of selling our place. The right decision for us, was selling it. Wednesday I dropped the keys off. I took off the garage key, pool key, 2 house keys and that is when I felt the weight off my shoulders and my hands :) This scripture came to my mind. "Come unto me all that labor and are heavy laden and I will give you rest. Matthew 11:28

I'm so happy to move forward and continuing on this journey. I love my family!

My little girl is 4!!!

2011-10-12T21:22:00.000-07:00

I really can't believe she is 4. The past 6 months she has grown so much. We had such a great day on her birthday. The past couple months hse has been excited for it and it was the first birthday she was excited for! I had party hats and balloons decorating her chair in the morning. James took the day off and went and got donuts. She had dance class in the morning and we brought the class donuts also.

After dance class, we picked up her friend Karly from church. Karly moved here a couple months ago and they are in Sunbeams together. They were both excited to go to Chuck E Cheese.

We got McDonalds and went to Churck E Cheese to play games.

Carter had a great time also!

I asked if Chuck E could come out. Jocie was excited. Later that evening we met Grandma and Grandpa Kirk at Build A Bear. Jocelynn has been looking forward to this. She has never done it before. Her older cousin has a couple bears and she was so excited to call her.

Giving the Bear a bath

Dressing the bear with Grandma.

Grandpa watched Carter while we helped Jocie.

After Build A Bear we went to the rainforest cafe for dinner. It was fun to take the kids to see the animals. Jocelynn was a little afraid of the elephants. She had this serious look on her face and kept asking if they were real. Carter kept pointing to everything and got scared of the gorillas.

Yummy dessert! I love this girl so much! James and I often find ourselves talking about her. She is such a joy and light in our lives!!

Jocelynn -

Loves to read. She knows over 30 sight words and is reading

Writes her name and letters

Needs help with scissors

Is a perfectionist

Rapunzel is her favorite princess

Loves movies

Loves dirt, bugs, being outside

Loves dresses and bows

Shy and quiet, if she doesn't know you

Sensitive

Needs her sleep

Goes to bed around 6pm-630pm if she didn't nap

Loves her brother and his "little head"

Loves to draw and color

Eats everything (vegetables, fruit chicken)

Favorite food - mac n cheese and corn dogs

Loves cake, cookies, candy and bread

Sweet but also can have major attitude

Likes to dress herself, excercise, say her prayers, brush her teeth, and wash her face (first thing in the morning)

Pump It Up - Gabrielle's 2nd Birthday

2011-10-12T20:55:00.000-07:00

The kids had a great time!

Gabrielle had her 2nd borthday at Pump It Up. We went there a couple months ago for Rylin and Jordyn's birthday. Jocelynn was excited to go again, especially because now she knew what to expect. She ran right in there and had the best time!

My favorite age!

2011-10-09T21:24:00.000-07:00

Pointing to something he sees at Rainforest Cafe!

I love this age! It is my favorite!!! I loved Jocelynn this age and now that I have a second child I can second that and confirm that I love the age between one and two! I love when they walk and are more independent and have the schedule thing down great! Eat all foods, start talking! I love this boy of mine. He has me wrapped around his little finger. He's so cuddly so sweet. I love the excitement in his eyes and face when I open the door for him to go outside. He loves to be outside. I love that I live where there is a backyard and he can play outside for a long time. He loves dirt, eating it, feeling it, throwing it. I love that he tries to talk and he now yells "Jos," which sounds like "Jaw." Here are a few more things about this sweet boy of mine I love.

Loves it when I chase him and say "Im going to get you"
Understands the word outside and loves it.
Transitioning to one nap but most days still takes 2. @ 10 and 230.
Goes to bed around 8pm
Sleeps till 630
Signs milk, drink, more, all done, water, please, thank you
likes to watch cartoons with Jocie or signing time
eats everything, not picky . . . yet
love it when he drinks and then takes a huge breath afterward
I put him to sleep every night and then lay him down. It takes 5 minutes, he knows its bedtime so he closes his eyes. I love this time with him
Cries with others if he doesn't know you
Loves balls
He likes to hit and throw. (I think that's a guy thing but we are working on that)
LOVES his sister

Blast from the past

2011-10-09T18:01:00.000-07:00

I met two friends from High School at Grazianos. Carter and their girls are the same age. We played soccer together and on Friday's after the football games we would go to Grazianos so it was fun to go back. I always love being around them!

Jocie is in soccer. She goes every Thursday. She loves it but is not too motivated to get the ball, she runs around though and has great dribbling skills.

Jocie used to be afraid of getting her face painted. Sounds funny but anything new to this child causes a little anxiety. She wanted to try it so we did and she loved it and can't wait to do it again!

Carter's area of choice - the dirt

2nd area of choice on top of his sister!

Vintage Style

2011-10-09T17:48:00.000-07:00

Valentines Day cards from the 1950-60s. My mom remembers these cards. My grandma has taught me so much about taking care of the things you have!

1 cent, 3 cent and 4 cent postage cards

Donald Duck paper straws from the 1950-60s

My Grandma has lived in her home since 1959. Her home is very clean, neat organized. It's a three bedroom home. She has had the same furniture for probably 50 years. I have so many memories of everything in this home. This green chair will always remind me of her. She used to knit in this year before her arthritis was causing her pain. She has been getting rid of things and here are a few things she has kept.

Oak Glen - Fruit Picking

2011-09-25T20:05:00.000-07:00

After Labor day, it's the first time of the year that Oak Glen is open for fruit picking. I remember going as a little girl for a class trip and James and I have been wanting to take the kids. We knew they would love it. It was a perfect day. A day that you want to freeze and don't want to end. The weather was beautiful, we got there without getting lost, the kids were happy, we were happy. We picked apples, strawberries, blackberries and raspberries. There weren't a lot of blackberries but a lot of raspberries and strawberries. Afterwards, we ate and the kids played outside. Jocelynn climbed the tree and Carter was throwing rocks in the creek. They threw rocks in the pond also. They both slept the way home and when we got home I put Carter in his crib and he slept more. He was exhausted.

Carter was cracking us up because he loved throwing rocks and kept laughing at Jocelynn. It was making us laugh to see him so happy.

Happy boy throwing rocks. He is always into dirt and has dirt everywhere.

Carter's eating a strawberry. He kept picking them and eating them . . .:) Not washed . . . oh well.

Carter just as happy as can be in the dirt.

Jocelynn picking strawberries!

They were pretty, red, juicy strawberries!

PLaying in the creek.

Bag full of Gala apples.

Her first apple picked

They loved the goats

Picking blackberries, these were harder for her to pick. Raspberries and strawberries were easier.

Yummy raspberries

Picking raspberries!

Corn and pumpkins will be here in a couple weeks! I think we've found a new family tradition every year!

Just Kickin It! Dance class

2011-09-19T15:48:00.000-07:00

This is Jocelynn's 3rd time taking dance. I took her to 2 other places and she was not a fan. Nope, she cried and clung to me the whole time. I tried again this year and got her tap and ballet shoes!! She was so excited! Really? She has grown so much. Her confidence and excitement to try other things. I was so happy. I got her a couple leotards at the new "Itty Bitty store" used children clothing. It was perfect!! I can't wait to see her in a recital. She goes for 45 minutes every Tuesday. A woman from church has a little studio upstairs in her home. It's perfect! Jocie has 4 other girls in her class!

Patience

2011-09-18T21:59:00.001-07:00

"Patience—the ability to put our desires on hold for a time—is a precious and rare virtue. We want what we want, and we want it now. Therefore, the very idea of patience may seem unpleasant and, at times, bitter."

My friend posted this quote on FB a couple weeks ago. I've thought about patience for a long time now. I think patience is a very important quality to have and learn. I used to think I had patience until I became a mom and I couldn't figure out my newborn's needs and she was screaming for hours. I remember praying daily for Heavenly Father to give me patience to meet her needs. We all have to practice some type pf patience in our lives. Just recently, I've had to be patient with the selling of our home. One day I was so frustrated and mad at what was happening. I went on FB to find this picture below.

This is my friend and her little boy. They almost lost him and didn't know most of the time what was going to happen. They had to wait and wait and wait. He was in ICU for 2 months, and thankfully is now home. For the whole story check out http://williamantoniotodd.blogspot.com/

Today we live in a society that has a hard time waiting. We want what we want . . . now. I've thought about when this starts and I was thinking about how our children have to practice patience at an early age. I can recall when my daughter was 3 and she wanted dinner . . . and she wanted it now! All you moms can understand . . . your children get hungry, you do your best to have dinner ready before it gets to that point but that's not always the way it goes so then you are cooking dinner but they want to eat. I told Jocelynn, it's almost ready. She wasn't happy with that answer. We then started to talk about what patience means. I've watched several Mormon messages. One message I like is called "Continuing in Patience." President Uchtdorf talks about an experiment given to 4 year old children in the 1960s. A marshmellow was placed before them and he told them they could eat it right away or if they waited then they could have 2. Some ate it right away and others waited. Only 30% were able to wait. This study suggested that "the ability to wait, to be patient, was a key character trait that might predict later success in life." I've thought about when we have the character trait of patience then we are able to enjoy the blessings we are given at that moment. Even if there is something that we want really bad. . . patience can help us be grateful and experience true joy. The other day Jocelynn says to me "Mom I want Carter to run and talk to me." I said to her "that will be so much fun but isn't he so cute being little." I think as we are patient we can appreciate the beauty our Heavenly Father has blessed us with already. Today was a moment where I needed to practice some patience. It was 2pm and Jocelynn was eating a snack. She said at the table, "I want to eat this but I don't" and the melt down started to occur. She just doesn't cry, she cries hard and becomes irrational. I held her in my arms and carried her upstairs. I knew she was tired. She wailed her arms up and down and said she didn't want to go to bed. I said no it's bedtime. Carter followed us up and began playing with her toys in her room. I held her in my arms and was trying to calm her down and sing to her. There have been times when I've yelled, shut the door, lost my patience but this time was different. She closed her eyes within a minute and fell asleep. I couldn't believe it either. I thought about patience and because I practiced patience at that moment. I experienced love. Love is patient. And when we are patient we experience love. I wondered if that would be the last time I held her in my arms while she slept. It was a sweet moment. So I hope we can all try to practice patience in our lives and I think as we do we will be happier and grateful for what we've been blessed with. President Uchtdorf closed by saying "Patience means staying with something until the end. It means delaying immediate gratification for future blessings. The work of patience boils down to this: keep the commandments, trust in God our Heavenly Father, serve him with meekness and Christlike love, excercise faith and hope in the Savior, and never give up!"

My Brave Little Girl

2011-09-11T21:11:00.000-07:00

I wanted to write this moment down before I forgot it. TOday I was proud of my little girl. Jocelynn has always been shy, and quiet. Of course, she is loud around us but as soon as someone would talk to her she keeps her lips sealed. Many times, hides behind my legs. I feel bad for her because I was that way when I was little. I didn't like it and I hated that I would get nervous just to answer someone question. I don't want her to feel the same as I did. As a baby, she would cry if others looked at her and only wanted me to hold her. When she was 3, we would go on walks and people would be outside, she would want to practice saying Hi to people. I told her okay, I'll say Hi and then you say it next. She would do it and be very proud of herself. She would also wave at cars and it would mean so much to her if someone waved back. THere are times she would say Hi to people and she would say "Mom they didn't say Hi." I remember doing that a lot in High School, I'd say Hi when I'd walk by people and they wouldn't hear me. I was old enough to laugh about it though.

Jocelynn gave her first talk in Primary months ago. She had the whole thing memorized. She got up took some deep breaths and did it all by herself. I couldn't believe it! Well now that are getting ready to do a sacrament program at church. I've learned with her that I can't talk to her about something coming up. She gets a lot of anxiety and very nervous! Last week they came and got me from class and she was crying. I convinced her to just sit there with her teacher. She didn't want to get up and say her part. The part was "I can listen to good music." Well today after sacrament she started crying a lot! I felt bad of course but we walked to the hall, her Daddy and me. I said Jocie you are being silly. Remember how you cried going to preschool and now you say that that was silly because there was nothing to cry about? This is nothing to cry about. I know you can do it. It's no big deal. Your teacher is there to help you. I want you to go in there and do it. You are brave! I thought for sure she'd say "No!!" I felt bad for pushing her. It was hard to say that. But she looked at me and said "Ok Mom!" She hugged me and her dad and I could have cried. She walked in there and I knew how hard it was for her. We left and then both wanted to see if she'd do it. She washolding tight to her teacher. We peeked in and she did it! She spoke on the microphone. We both got tears in our eyes. After church she said I did it mom, I did it! She was so proud of herself!! I was so proud of her.

It's only 1:30pm?

2011-09-07T20:46:00.000-07:00

I know all moms can relate to this. We try to do so much and do it well. Most of the time I have it together but today I kind of felt this way . . . .

I remember working before staying home and thinking how nice it would be to stay home. Don't get me wrong I love it but a lot of work.

Today was another busy day and I only have 2 kids. I put Carter to bed at 8pm and sat on the couch, grabbed the computer (my time to relax) and was supposed to start homework but had no energy too. I just wanted to do nothing. I started thinking of all the things I did today and realized why at the end of the day, doing homework is just more work added to my day. It's crazy though because as exhausting as my days can be, I love my job. I really do. Of course, I'm tired but there are so many great moments to my day: 2 of them 1. hearing my kids laugh and seeing them smile and 2. Carter falling asleep on me.

My kids were up by 645am this morning. That's pretty typical. Jocelynn has preschool at 8am so we got all ready and had breakfast. After I dropped her off, Carter and I went to the gym and I ran 4 miles. By 9am, I got home and held him for 5-10 minutes. He quickly fell asleep and I had some time to myself. I got on the computer (not for facebook but for school and to look for invitations for my sister). I did the dishes, picked up, and my friend, Melinda stopped by. After visiting together for an hour, (the whole time I was scrubbing my floors), I took a quick shower and picked up Jocelynn. We ran 3 errands when I picked her up (Signed her up for soccer through the city, stopped by the Teacher Store to get a few educational things, and went to the grocery store for some food. By the time we got home it was 130pm and it felt like it should have been 630. I put Carter down for his nap and put a movie on for Jocelynn. During the movie, I cleaned the bathroom and started to get dinner ready. Jocie is in bed by 6pm when she doesn't nap so she eats dinner around 430pm. I played with the kids and got her to bed shortly after that.

No wonder I can't think right now to do homework right? All you moms out there understand. One class is enough for me. Taking one class a semester I'll be done in 2 and a half years, including summers. THere really is no rush though, considering I plan to stay home with my kids. Today I had a list of things to do and tomorrow I think I won't run as many errands.

And a special shout out to my husband! A couple days ago he got Ben n Jerrys and caramel drumsticks! I think today is a great day to enjoy!

Triana Condo - For Sale

2011-09-04T21:40:00.000-07:00

I've waited for months to do this post, probably because these pictures are so special to me. We had so many wonderful memories here and it's "so hard to say goodbye to yesterday." But like many things in life, where one door closes another opens. We move forward and the chapter hasn't quite ended with this place yet but I think it's getting close. In 2005, we bought our first place together. Our plan was to sell it in a couple years and get a bigger place. Towards 2006, the economy started taking a fall. We brought two children home to this place. I have so many memories of walking up 3 flights of stairs pregnant, carrying groceries, carrying a toddler throwing a crazy tantrum but also wonderful memories of going on walks, looking at many rainbows from our view. I loved how small and simple it was. We never had many material things but there was so much more we had. Many memories of paying in the garage with toys. When Jocelynn would get bored we'd head down to the garage. In 2009, after lots of thought and prayer, we decided it would be best to sell it. I thought it would take 6-9 months but I was wrong. It's been a very long road. Yes, it's been 2 years!! We've had about 6 buyers, TONS of paperwork to sign, and a lot of waiting. It's taken a lot of patience. There was a time we had 2 weeks to move. I was up late putting things in boxes, packing throughout the day and it fell through. It started to become chaotic, especially after having a new baby. I like things in order and just felt like everything was everywhere. My parents asked us to come live with them for awhile and that is a great help! We moved in January with my parents and it has been such a blessing. Fingers are crossed that the sale goes through this month.

2 years ago we hung a birdhouse that Jocelynn painted, in the tree. Everytime we come back we look in the tree and it is still there!

loved this kitchen!

So many nights of rocking Jocelynn in this chair! and reading her books! My mom made those curtains.

Her crib! We didn't take it down when we put the toddler bed in.

Our bathroom and walk in closet.

#301 will always be special to me. It's many chapters in our book of our life together. I pray that the sale will go through finally so we can officially move on!

Grandma's 87th birthday!

2011-08-28T20:52:00.000-07:00

Grandma turned 87 and we took her to the beach and rode the surreys. We decorated it a little bit and put some signs on the bike. Everyone was honking. I think the honking may have stressed her out a little haha. but I think she liked it! We made her a sash to wear. My grandma is modest and conservative! I love to give her attention because she's not the type to want it :) Everyone loves some attention though and to feel special!

It was over 100 degrees in Corona so the beach felt wonderful!

Cousins love each other. As you can see, Nathan and Carter already playing together.

Grandma got to eat dinner in a big comfy chair! Everyone was honking when they drove by!

I love my Grandma. Every special holiday and birthday I can't help but think to myself if this will be the last one. I treasure every moment with her!

LA Temple and Visitors center

2011-08-28T20:29:00.000-07:00

It was a great day at the temple. We haven't gone to the LA temple since the day I told James I was pregnant with Carter. Time flies. It was a nice day out and we got to go to the Visitors Center. The Visitor Center is now open and is wonderful!! There's so much to see and do. After the temple we went to "Bay Cities Italian Deli and Bakery." It was really good. We got some lasagna, sandwich and slice of pizza and some puruvian cookies. They were so good!

Love this picture!

This was neat to have the kids sit in a wheelchair. It's something you don't really think about but we talked to Jocelynn about how there are many people that can't walk and they use this chair to get around.

We saw lots of short movie clips!

Jocelynn liked this. The kids could draw and color! You could save it and then it would post your picture on the wall.

Camping in the Backyard

2011-08-14T21:49:00.000-07:00

I've wanted for years to get into camping. I think it's a great family outing to do with kids. It's inexpensive and kids love dirt and being outside. For christmas we got a lot of camping things. Our first tent, lantern, stove! I've wanted to use the tent, at least in the backyard before we go anywhere. We still need sleeping bags, maybe for Christmas this year. Friday was a perfect day to do this. I knew Jocelynn would be so excited. Carter was going to sleep inside. My parents are inside and I also came in around 12am. It would have been hard with him in the tent so him inside was perfect. We did smores on the fire pit and pretended like we were fishing in the waterfall. We got into the tent a little later then we should have. It took Jocelynn over an hour to get to sleep. She was so excited. The next day she woke up at 630am and threw a tantrum by 8am. It was worth it though. She took a nap at 10am that day and was in bed by 6pm. It was a great memory and we look forward to doing this more.

Preschool - Busy Bee Academy

2011-08-14T21:36:00.000-07:00

Ms Brooke read "The kissing Hand" the first day and they handed us a hand with a hershey kiss on it and we said goodbye. I love how Ms Brooke has them sit criss cross applesauce on their spot on the rug and when we pick them up she has them walk out in a line. She really prepares them for Kindergarten.

Jocelynn loves the sandbox!!

I love Busy Bee Academy. Her teacher is Ms Brooke and is wonderful. I love how organized, neat and clean everything is. She got a new rug this year and 2 new Mac computers for the kids to use. Check out her site at www.busybacademy.com

When preschool got out in June, I was actually excited to have the summer with Jocelynn. I was excited not to have to take her anywhere. The last week before school started though I was ready and so was she to go back to preschool. I got her some new clothes. She has gotten so big!! She picked out her outfit and she couldn't wait!! The night before James gave her a blessing and she was excited for that. The next morning she was ready! The pictures in the front make me laugh because she was just posing and so happy. She couldn't stop talking and we get to school and she becomes all quiet! We went to the library after we picked her up and when we got home she started to get a fever! She had a great first day besides that.

A night away

2011-08-14T21:02:00.000-07:00

James and got to get away for the night. I was so looking forward to sleeping. Carter doesn't wake up in the night to nurse anymore so we decided to stay at the Hyatt in Irvine. The kids went to bed at 7pm. We got a babysitter until 10pm, my parents got home and watched them all day the next day until 5pm. We went to the District in Irvice for dinner at Thai Bistro Cafe. IT was so good. They have so many places to eat and shops. We really didn't do much but relax in the hotel room and sleep. We got a 2pm check out and I worked out and it was wonderful. It went by too fast. Next time I need 3 nights. Looking forward to it :) Thank you mom and dad for watching the kids! They had a great time!

One year old

2011-08-14T20:44:00.000-07:00

Still hard to believe he is one! Here's a little about him now.

Two naps (around 9am and 2pm)
Goes to bed around 7pmor 8pm)
Sleeps 11 hours at night
Says Bubble, up, duck, dog, mama
signs more, thank you, eat, milk, all done
loves books (points a picture and says "that") I think for whats that?
Loves to be outside
Walked a week before he turned one
still prefers to crawl
eats all food
weaned from nursing
doesn't like milk but we are working on it
momma's boy and doesn't really go to others
loves birds and dogs
20 pounds 12 oz at 12 month appointment
loves his sister and loves to tackle her
loves to knock over her buildings (which doesn't make her happy)

Happy Birthday Carter!

2011-08-01T21:51:00.000-07:00

Carter turned one on Saturday. It's hard for me to believe a year has gone by. It really went by fast. We went to the park for his birthday. I didn't get pictures of everyone there but I'm grateful for everyone that came. The theme was Sesame Street Babies. His hat said "1st Birthday!"

Cookie monster cupcakes, blue frosting!

Carter was not interested. . . at all in the cake. I was surprised because at home he goes at it with food. We did it the next day at home and cut him a piece and he loved it.

Serious boy wondering why everyone was staring at him.

Rylin and Jordyn

Cute Gabrielle

Lincoln and MaKenzie

DeeDee and Sadie

The happy Birthday boy!

Jocie loves her brother!

I brought about 50 water balloons. The kids loved throwing them at Tyler, Jason and James.

Grandpa, Grandma and Carter

My mom helped a ton with Carter that day. I was talking with everyone and she was feeding him. I was really grateful!

We love you Carter and have brought us so much happiness!

Pump It Up!

2011-08-01T21:37:00.000-07:00

The birthday girls! Jordyn 5 and Rylin 7

All the kids at the party

Melinda and Paytin going down the slide

Jocelynn loved it. She only wanted to jump. She was scared of the slides. I carried her up the slides as she cried but when she went down it said "That was fun mom" and then went down it by herself. You can tell by that smile she had a blast! She is very close with these 2 girls. I wish I had more pictures of them when they were babies together. Makes me sad I don't. She says often that she wishes they were her sisters. I tell her that they are like sisters.

Jocelynn took this last picture of Carter!

Cool Cuts for Kids

2011-08-01T21:20:00.000-07:00

Carter has needed a haircut. Jocie needed a trim also so we got her one while we were there. She got the princess chair and got to watch Cinderella. She was pretty excited.

This is the after picture when he got his haircut.

Grandma and Grandpa

Eating cheerios

He's done

He loved the car and I love Grandpa's face in the background.

Before picture. No more curls

He loved all the trains!

Family

2011-08-01T21:10:00.000-07:00

The kids played a lot at the house and had a good time.

Jocelynn loved sleeping with Jordyn every night!

We went on a double date to Cheesecake Factory with my sister and her husband. We loved having them here and can't wait to see them again!

Beach Day

2011-08-01T20:57:00.000-07:00

Grandma and Ryker

Grandma making sandwiches for everyone and Ryker eating his in the sand.Kids playing

Dylan

Micah

Jordyn

Aiden

Jocie

We had a great time. On the way home I picked up my Bob stroller off Craigslist and love it!

Aquarium of the Pacific- Long Beach

2011-08-01T20:05:00.000-07:00

When my sister and her family were here from Wyoming. On Friday we went to Aquarium of the Pacific in Long Beach.

Cousins: Micah 8, Dylan 6, Aiden 6

Grandpa Kirk holding Carter. He didn't care too much about the sting rays. He just wanted to touch the water.

Difference of personalities - Jocelynn did NOT want to touch the sting ray.

Cousins - Jaeger 4, Jocelynn 3

10 cousins and Jess

Cousins : Tyler 4, and Jocelynn 3 looking at the sharks

Look at the blue eyes

10 of the 13 cousins

Afterwards, we went to a grass area and had lunch. It was so fun and the weather was great. Afterwards, Jocelynn went to Aunt Jamie and her family to Jason and Rachel's house. They went bowling and spent the night. I missed her but she had a great time with her cousins.

11 months

2011-07-10T21:04:00.000-07:00

I'm always a week or 2 late. Here is what Carter's into these days.

Naps 2 times a day
Sleeps 11-12 hours at night
Eats everything, and all day long
Nurses morning and night
signs eat, more, all done
has curly hair
loves cars and balls
throws a ball
blows kisses, says hi and bye
goes to kids klub while I work out and cries the whole time
He has separation anxiety
has 6 teeth
eats oatmeal before bed every night
loves to crawl around outside (yes I let him)
standing for a couple seconds
says dog, duck and dada
smiles when he sees a camera

Summer days

2011-07-10T20:41:00.000-07:00

This is one of Carter's favorite toys to play with.

Up from a nap and a happy boy!

I love to watch him sleep

Swimming in the pool at Grandma and Grandpa's house

Happy 4th of July

2011-07-10T20:38:00.000-07:00

4th of July

2011-07-10T19:58:00.000-07:00

4th of July we had a great day. The night before Grandma Lane spent the night. In the morning we had a pancake breakfast at the church. Jessica and Keven drove all night and met us there. It was great having them here! Later in the day we went swimming. Jocelynn had a nice nap and then we went to see the fireworks at the park. Grandpa stayed home so Carter could sleep and Jocelynn just went with us. It was nice spending that time with her. She was REALLY excited to see fireworks. She talked about it all day. THey were really nice and played great music!

Gabrielle

2011-07-10T19:52:00.000-07:00

We love to visit Gabrielle!

29th Birthday!

2011-07-10T18:29:00.000-07:00

I had a wonderful birthday. James got up early before he left at 6am and made breakfast. eggs, sausage, biscuits. We went to the beach with my mom and came home and I got to go get a pedicure. James came home from work early and made cupcakes with Jocelynn. Later that evening we went to Kingfish and I got Lobster, oysters and potatoes.

It was a great birthday with family and I look forward to my last year before I turn 30!

Breakfast

ISR swim lessons

2011-07-08T22:05:00.000-07:00

This is Jocelynn's second year with swim lessons through ISR. For more info go to infantswim.com. It's an amazing program. Last year it was a 6 week course, everyday for 10 minutes. They taught her during that time to swim and float on her back. It's mainly for survival but she learned during that to swim and gain confidence in the water. She's a great swimmer. This year the refresher course was only one week. Her instructor made the comment that she was the best refresher student she has ever had. She remembered everything from last year on her first day. We are going to have a fun summer swimming. Next year I will be signing up Carter for lessons.

Awesome floater!

Beach Bonfire

2011-06-26T19:38:00.000-07:00

Cooking hot dogs!

jocie loves uncle Jason. He's helping her with her marshmellow.

Cute Nathan!

NOt sure what Jessica's lips are doing hahaha but Carter just chilling

Jessica was down for a few days. We decided to have a bonfire at the beach. I love the beach. We love the beach. Our kids love the beach. Everything about it. The water, the sand, the bonfires, the smell.
Besides the mis communication about where we were, it was great. (I didn't realize there were 2 tower number 13). We had hot dogs, smores and the kids had a great time playing together. We even flew a kite.

Little Sister Pregnant

2011-06-26T19:34:00.000-07:00

This is for sure a Jessica pose!!

We are so excited that Jessica and Keven are having a baby. She's due Dec 23rd! Woo hoo!!

10 months

2011-06-19T22:50:00.000-07:00

I'm a little behind. My camera is broken and my sister has gotten me on to Mixbook. I couldn't decide if I should still blog but decided to keep it going especially so family out of state can see what we are up to. Carter is 10 months, okay almost 11 on the 30th of June. Every month he does something new and just growing so much. He understands a lot more. He signs eat, more, milk and waves bye, blows kisses, tries brushing his hair with a brush, and talks on the phone. I love this little man of mine. At 9 1/2 months he started sleeping through the night. I feed him all day long. He stopped eating baby food but is an awesome eater. Carrots, cauliflower, brocolli, all fruit, chicken, fish, potatoes rice. He'll eat anything. Usually for breakfast I give him oatmeal or banana and yogurt, lunch sandwich and dinner some kind of meat with vegetables. He crawls up the stairs now and stands up on everything. He knows the word No but thinks it's funny. He loves to play. There are days he still wake up once in the night. I'm still nursing, morning and night and sometimes once in the day. He loves to go on walks. He sleeps with a blanket and knows Jocie! They play so cute together. He has been taking toys from her lately. James and I have always treated him like he wcould understand what we are saying. For example, he's take a toy away from Jocelynn and we would say "No Carter we don't do that, we need to share." We do this mainly for Jocelynn and we tell her that he is learning so maybe you can give him a different toy to play with. He is a happy boy, when he is fed and sleeps well. He has separation anxiety but recently has been better if someone holds him. I love this time in my life! He loves it when kids are around.

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Visit with Grandma Gloria

2011-06-19T22:35:00.000-07:00

She was showing Jocelynn and Tyler how to draw trees!

Carter kept staring at her. We told Jocelynn about her hugs before we got there. She gives great hugs and loves to hug. Jocelynn quickly warmed up to her. Every child does. She is so good with kids, probably because she has been around them and have taken care of kids her whole life. She had 7 kids, 2 of them has passed away and she has had a daycare for over 30 years.

The beginning of the year my Grandma found out she had cancer, Stage 4. When my Dad told me it was hard to hear. It spread everywhere. I just don't want her to be in pain. Grandma has had a daycare called Grandma's Place for over 30 years. She is an amazing woman! So positive happy and full of life! She is going through her second stage of cancer and the Dr said it has shrunk. Which is great news! We stopped by to see her in Logan. I love my Grandma!

Micah's Baptism

2011-06-19T22:11:00.000-07:00

Well alot has happened since my last blog. Carter pulled my camera off the table and it broke. i've been without a camera. My sister took these pictures while we were in Wyoming for me though. Thanks Jess! Here's Micah, before he was baptized! He is such a sweet special boy! We are so proud of his decision to be baptized! Carter and Jocelynn and I drove with my Dad on a Thursday! We stopped in Cedar City and stayed in a hotel for the night. James was unable to come because he started a new job a month ago. It was fun staying in a hotel with the kids and my dad. The next day we drove to my little sister's place and then to Grandma Gloria's house .It was a long day, after visiting with her we drove to Wyoming.

My sister with her 5 children

The Kirk side of the family there for the baptism!

Micah is such a good example to jocelynn and Carter

That evening we had a BBQ and made smores outside. The weather was beautiful. That evening we went out for a run! My parents had to drive back Sunday but we were able to stay until Wednesday and drive back with my little sister! We had such a great time, it was hard to leave!

Yummy smores!

Go Angels!

2011-05-23T15:03:00.000-07:00

Grandpa enjoying the game

Aiden

Tyler

Tyler up to bat

Aiden up to bat

Tyler up to first base with Dad right beside him

At the park

Grandma watched Nathan while Jason coached. He fell asleep and then they went to the park for a little bit.

Great friends and cousins! Tyler got Jocelynn a popsicle

Grandma and Aiden after the game

Her cousins are always so sweet to her. Aiden and Jocelynn walking having a conversation after the game, no idea what they are talking about.

Tyler and Aiden are on the same Baseball team this year. Jason was helping with coaching also. Saturday we were able to go down and watch them play. It was fun to watch them out there. They both were cute when they would go up to bat. They both hit the ball and when Tyler was on base he shouted out to another at bat, "put your elbows up!" He's a crack up. He is always looking out for others also. After the game they had popsicles and he got one for Jocelynn. Aiden would hit the bat on the base before he was getting ready to swing. I over heard him tell the team mom that his "Grandma, grandpa, aunt, uncle and cousins came to watch him play!" Nothing better then family support. We went to McDonalds after for lunch.

T ball, Chick Fil A, and Grandmas

2011-05-23T14:25:00.000-07:00

Jocie at T ball practice. This is her "baseball stance." She is getting ready for the ball. She took an intro to T ball and soccer class and loved it! She was so comfortable and was really excited to go to her practices.

At Chick Fil A one night there was a reptile show. This is a Python snake. She wanted to touch it. I was surprised she wasn't scared. She didn't want to hold the snake though.

She loved this tortoise. This is an animal I'd love to have. I think they are so fun!

Carter is almost completely off baby food. He enjoys eating with his hands. For about a month now he would complain if I would get out baby food and clap his hands. I've actually been giving him regular food since he was 7 months. He loves everything. It's just more work on my part because I have to cook everything but that's ok. He loves to eat it all. He prefers doing it himself, which makes for a big mess to clean up.

We went and saw Grandma Lane last week. We brought lunch and visited with her for a little bit. We change her sheets when we come. She loves to read and talk with Jocelynn. She often tells me how much Jocelynn excites her and brings her so much joy. Her and Jocelynn were talking in the back room and Grandma came into the kitchen crying. She often does this because she loves Jocelynn so much! I'm grateful for the relationship and happiness Jocelynn brings my Grandma.

Sneaky little crawler!

2011-05-23T14:13:00.000-07:00

I love this age. Many times I yell "Carter!" and search frantically looking for him, only to find that he's right under my nose. This boy plays so quietly though I have no idea where he is. He's a quick crawler now and gets into everything. I love it. A common place we will find him is under the table. He loves the obstacle course with the chairs.

I'm saying to him "Carter, come here little boy!"

He's quickly coming to his momma, because he loves me! :)

Silly mom! "I'm saying to him "Give me a kiss!"

Here he comes for the kiss but it ends up being an open mouth kiss/ bite!! I love this boy!

Palm Springs

2011-05-22T21:49:00.000-07:00

Girls posing outside the shops

Great friends - Jordyn and Jocelynn

Carter just chillin

Melinda and her desert

Look at all that food! Yummy BBQ

It was hot, sunny and very bright!

My friend Melinda was staying down in Palm Springs for the weekend. She asked us to come and hang out with them. It was just what we needed. James has been working very long hours at work and it was so nice to get away. We left Saturday morning and came back for church Sunday. It was perfect. It was only a little over an hour away and we had such a great time. We went swimming and Carter slept for over 3 hours (I had to wake him). Jocelynn watched a movie with Jordyn so the adults got to swim and it was so nice. That evening we went to dinner at a place called "Babe's." It was yummy BBQ. We got there at 430 so we were able to order off the lunch menu. Melinda's birthday was 5 days before so we had them bring her desert! It was a pig that oinked with ice cream in the middle! We came back and put the kids to bed. My wonderful husband put both kids to bed and I went shopping with Melinda. We had so much fun trying on clothes. We stayed up late and watched "Country Strong." The music was good but story line not so much. We came back the next day and it was raining. The weather was 90 degrees in Palm Springs. Thanks again for inviting us Melinda we had such a great time!

Fire Truck at the library

2011-05-22T21:44:00.000-07:00

At the library, the kids were able to look at the fire truck and even sit inside. I picked up Rylin and Jordyn that day and they came with us. Jocie loves these girls. She often talks about having a sister. I tell her she is lucky for having a brother. She used to ask me if Rylin and Jordyn were her sisters. I tell her no but they are like cousins. All of her girl cousins live out of state so I am glad she is close to these girls. I think she will always look up to them as her older sister. They will be great examples for her and I'm glad she has them in her life!

Rylin

Jordyn

Close friends!

Happy Mother's Day!

2011-05-10T14:44:00.000-07:00

Mother's Day was wonderful. Jocie had been sick and I didn't want to get the whole primary sick so we had her stay home. My mom offered to stay home with her and then James would come home after sacrament. It was different not having my kids at church with me. I missed them. I was grateful for my mom offering to do that. It was nice to be able to listen to a lesson without trying to listen and keep a baby quiet.

James got home and was immediately working in the kitchen. He was making dinner and was in the kitchen for hours. He made Herb chicken (he kept taking it out of the oven and basting it), mashed potatoes (with parm cheese and mozarella cheese mixed in), rolls, green beans and homemade gravy, Lemon bars for desert. I felt so special. He even cleaned up and did all the dishes.

I feel so blessed that I am a mother and can stay home with my kids all day. I really love taking care of them and spending this time with them. The days when Jocie is napping, most of the time she will only nap if I nap with her and to be honest, these are memories with her that I will always have. She lets me cuddle her and hold her close and I know someday I will miss everything about my kids being little. These are the best days of my life and I feel so grateful. My kids have taught me so much and I hope in return, I have taught them many important lessons.

9 months

2011-05-10T14:28:00.000-07:00

Carter started crawling during his 8th month. He's a totally different baby. Still sweet as can be but into everything. One thing about him and Jocie that are different is he is so grabby. We call him "grabby boy." Whatever he can get his hands on, he will. I would be holding him and open the refrigerator and the next thing I know he's holding a bottle of Tabasco that I wasn't aware of. :) Don't put a plate of food or anything close to him because he will grab it. He's gotten good at crawling and can now move quickly if he sees something he wants to get to. It's also nice having him crawl. I love this age because he can get into different things that entertains him. He started clapping his hands (to get the spoon) or slamming his hands down on the table when he is finished. He's been eating a lot of regular food a lot earlier then Jocie was. I had to stop giving him so much because he was denying the baby food. As I said before, he likes to use his hands. Since he was a baby he could pin point a little crumb on the floor. He's so cute using his thumb and forefinger. He has a lot of focus so he likes to eat himself. I've been having to put some cheerios on the tray, just to feed him baby food. Uh oh.

This is his 4th time getting sick. He was sick for 3 weeks, then over it a week, then sick for 2 weeks, then another 2 weeks. Now it's been 3 weeks and he's finally better. I hope all that is done with. I think he wasn't eating very good these past 2 months because he's been sick, sleeping hasn't been the best either. He had his first ear infection.

Still nursing but only 2 times a day
Had cheese, yogurt, avocado, lentils, beans, brocolli, mashed potatoes, bread, green beans
Favorite baby food- peaches, and peas
crawling
Favorite toy - ball
likes books
Loves Jocie and smiles when you say her name
gives wonderful kisses
waves hi and bye
was waking up still at 5am (but just last week stopped ) WOO HOO

Weight 18pounds (10%)

Height 27 in (10%)

What happened to my big boy. I will be working on that now that he is better to plump him up again. :)

Nicknames - grabby boy (mom), bubbas (jocie), care bear (Dad), Mr Carter or Mr Caretier

Muffins with Mom

2011-05-10T14:19:00.000-07:00

At Jocie's preschool they had "muffins with mom." My friend, Melinda watched Carter so I could enjoy this time with her. When we got there, your child would escort you to a chair. Jocie had been asking me all week if I wanted lemonade or water, now I know why. She was bringing me something to drink and muffins and chocolate dipped strawberries. It was sweet to see Jocie with her friends. That morning we were running around getting ready. Jocie said her throat hurt but that was about it.

The program was so cute. They sung songs and talked about all the different hats we wear as moms. They gave us a present, which was a dish cloth with painted flowers on it and a big picture of Jocelynn that I'll keep forever. Each child said in front of everyone what they like to do with their moms. Jocie said she likes to play with me . . .play games with me. It was a special moment with my girl. When we got home she was so tired and felt really hot. I took her temperature and it was 104. That's for another post.

Kisses, horse, and wagon

2011-05-07T23:27:00.000-07:00

Carter started giving kisses last month but has gotten a lot better at it. I love these kisses!!! Many times he doesn't want to give them to me, probably because I ask for them constantly.

Jocie loves her horse and loves wearing hats.

We've been going on lots of walks these days, especially in the evenings when the days have been long and I need the time to go by. Daddy has been working long hours. I love this picture though, they look so old.

Jocie and her baby

2011-05-07T23:13:00.000-07:00

Jocie loves her babies. She loves to act like a mom. She always talks about being a mom and marrying her daddy someday. She is so sweet to her babies and really treats them as if they were real. She brings a diaper bag of all the things the baby needs and even has a toy for her little brother. One time she brought this bag with her. We were out and Carter was being fussy. I was looking through my diaper bag and she says "Here mom!" She pulled out a toy for him. I thought it was so sweet. She is so thoughtful and loves her little brother. She enjoys going for walks outside with her baby.

A couple days ago she was wearing my nursing cover. She said "mom, can I nurse Carter?" I thought that was pretty funny.

She is growing up too fast.

Jocie's Parrot

2011-05-04T15:10:00.000-07:00

Carter has started to sleep with his bum in the air. He would always sleep on his back and he just started rolling over. I love the bum in the air!

Jocie has show and tell at preschool the last Thursday of every month. She decided to bring her parrot to preschool and was pretty excited. She wanted to take a picture of me with it. She learned a sad lesson about the world the next day. After preschool, I decided to take the kids to the park before their naps. We were at the park playing and Jocelynn brought her parrot out. We usually don't bring toys to the park and Jocie wanted me to hold it when we were by the swings. I told her I couldn't hold it at that moment and set it down. Well we left the parrot at the park. I realized it when I got home but both kids were tired and I was praying it would be there when they woke up. The kids woke up and I drove back to the park and it was gone. The park is across from a High School so I have a feeling after school some kids went to the park. I ran to where we left it and it was gone. I went back to the car and Jocie was staring out the window. . . looking sad. I said "I'm so sorry honey." She said, "it's gone!?" Somebody took it?" I wanted to cry. She never cried but was very sad. Later that day she said maybe somebody will bring it back and say they are sorry. As a parent, I want to protect my child from everything. It saddens me that she will be exposed to all the evil things that happen in the world. Children are so innocent. I know she will remember that experience and will understand that it isn't right to take someone's toy. Although some do, that doesn't make it ok.

I love this girl! She is so sweet and makes me so proud and happy!

Silly girl in the bathtub

Vegetables and Fruit

2011-04-29T13:58:00.000-07:00

There's something I love about introducing babies/toddlers to food. I love feeding them. I get a thrill about getting fruits and vegetables from the store and cooking it for them. I love giving them a variety of things to eat. I love the age Carter is in right now. He's 9 months and trying all new things to eat. I love it because they eat anything you give them and want more. They can eat all day long and it makes me happy. I love going to wholesomebabyfood.com and finding new things to give them. I did this with Jocelynn too and she is such a good eater. I never had to really force Jocelynn to eat her vegetables because she has always eaten them. They have always been a part of dinner and they are fresh and yummy. No butter, no salt, just plain and so good. There are times during the day I'd cook up some fresh green beans or brocolli and she would eat them for a snack. . . really. Some things Carter has tried are lentils, brocolli, green beans, squash, carrots, pears, bananas. I think it's good to give foods to kids early so that they are used to eating a variety of things. he is already starting to wean himself from breastfeeding. I still nurse him about 4 times a day but he is liking the food and I think it's ok. So if I watch your kid, don't be surprised if I'm feeding their face the whole time but it'll be healthy for them. It makes me happy, maybe because it's something they need and they are growing so much during this time. I love taking care of my children. . . and feeding them things that are good for them makes me feel happy! Now don't get me wrong. If I stopped making vegetables and giving her fruit she would be perfectly happy living on crackers and bread but I know in order for her to be a good eater this needs to happen frequently, almost everyday so it becomes a part of her life.

Easter Evening

2011-04-26T21:58:00.000-07:00

This is my brother's boy, Tyler. Jocelynn and him are 9 months apart. They play so well together and love each other. It's so sweet. Jocelynn has 9 boy cousins and she loves them!

Carter and Nathan are 10 months apart. They already like to play together. Nathan likes to give Carter kisses.

Grandma Kirk and Carter

Getting ready to look for eggs.

Grandpa Kirk and Jocelynn

The evening of Easter my mom's family and both my brother's came over. We had a great dinner and went on an Easter egg hunt.

Here they are again being silly!

Easter

2011-04-25T14:41:00.000-07:00

Took a quick picture before heading to church. Easter was so nice this year. It was the first year that I think Jocie really understood what was going on. She was so excited when she woke up. We decided to have the egg hunt on Saturdays. It worked out great and all day Saturday we just hung out. Saturday evening we went over the Easter story . I had 12 eggs and in each egg there was something symbolic and a scripture. The last egg was empty to represent the empty tomb. Sunday we went to church and then later that evening my mom's family, and my brother's families came over.

The Easter bunny left his paw prints everywhere. :) Silly bunny! She got lots of eggs filled with coins and marshmellows. She also got some butterfly socks, a net and magnifying glass, and recorder! She was pretty funny when she woke up. She didn't realize the easter bunny came and then I was running to get my camera and she quickly realized why. She started running down the stairs. I recorded her. She just woke up so ignore the hair and my voice. She said she heard and saw the easter bunny!

James new job - Willdan Energy Solutions

2011-04-24T22:58:00.000-07:00

In 2006, we graduated school and James got a job in Dec of 2006 for Willdan Financial services. I still remember making that drive with him to Temecula. We prayed about it and we went to the top of he hill where the office is and we looked at each other and were so excited for the new adventure, we knew that leaving the bank and starting this new job was something that he needed to do. He had just recieved his BA and it was exciting for that work to pay off. When we met James was a teller. We have made small baby steps but we have a lot of goals and are doing it slowly but we will get there.

James has worked for Willdan Financial Services since then as a Financial Analyst. Over the years he became Senior Financial Analyst and most recently, the past 2 years has traveled for the company. He has spoken at 7 different conferences. He applied for Willdan Energy and had 3 different interviews. First with a Manager, then Operations Manager and then the CEO. It was exciting for us to know they were interested in him. Energy is a new opportunity for growth and they are continuing to build so this is a great opportunity for us. We waited a week after his interview and then he got an email. The email said that he was in! And to give him a call with the details. They asked him to be "Sustainability Program Manager." It is located in Monrovia. It is an increase in pay and he accepted it. It's hard because we love those he works with in Temecula. It is an emotional time for us to leave and make this move. He recently found out that his current department was going to have to lay someone off so now that he has accepted this new job, they didn't have to do that.

I love to look back at how much we've grown over the years! I look forward to what is in store for us. James is such a hard worker and so smart. He wants to be a CEO of a company someday. I believe he will be and he would be amazing! He starts his new job tomorrow.

Coloring Easter Eggs and Playdate

2011-04-24T22:13:00.000-07:00

So this will be an area I need to wrk on for next year. I bought a kit at the store but it didn't give the eggs lots of color. I'll have to do some research. Jocelynn thought it was great though.

Friday we went to the park with friends. Everyone brought food to share and eggs so the kids could do an Easter egg hunt. It was fun watching Jocelynn get so excited!

Trip to Arizona

2011-04-24T20:50:00.000-07:00

James has had a week and a half off of work. We decided to go to Arizona for a day. We drove on Monday and came back late Tuesday night. The kids were great in the car. They both slept a lot of it so it was nice. James mom was in Arizona from Texas and our niece Janessa (James sister) had a baby and was visiting from Nebraska. When we got there his mom was making Lumpia and Gouli (spelling?). It was so good! We love seeing them and miss them.

James sister(Jeanette), Janessa (niece), James mom, James niece, Keona, and Jocelynn

James mom, sister and brother in law, Sudan

Lola and Carter

Baby Paul. He is 3 months old. It was fun to see Carter interact with him! We stayed in the Hyatt close by!

Easter pics

2011-04-24T20:37:00.000-07:00

This was taken when Carter was 7 months before he was crawling!

Sea World

2011-04-20T13:49:00.000-07:00

We went to Sea World for the first time last weekend. I don't know how I've lived here my whole life and have never been. We were so excited to go. This year teachers get in free for the year and if you buy one day you get an annual pass. I'm so excited for htis and think we will use it a lot this summer. These pictures are out of order but my brother and his kids went also. We got there around 10am. We saw a couple shows, dolphin and shamu. Went on some rides, saw some animals and had lunch by our car. It was a hot day and crowded but tons of fun! We went to dinner at Cocos afterwards and the kids were so tired. It was a great day!

Carter was a good boy with his hat and glasses on. We were watching Shamu!

Christian and Jocelynn watching the whale.

Mommy and Jocelynn on a ride

Grandma and Preston

Eating lunch by a shaded tree!

Pictures with Shamu!

The kids feeding the seals

Preston and Jocelynn

Loved the Dolphin show. We were in the 2nd row and the dolphin got us soaked! The kids loved it!

Grandpa got popcorn and Christian watching the dolphins

Carter and Grandma

The cousins hot! I brought a spray bottle though to keep them cool

Uncle James and Christian looking at the cool sharks

I thought this was funny and I think Jocelynn thought it was too. Although I tried to get her to sit and she ran away.

Can't wait to return!

Beach Day

2011-04-20T13:24:00.000-07:00

I got this kite a couple years ago. We tried flying it at a park but the kite was too big and not enough wind. I'll have to pull up those photos sometime. It'll be hilarious to see James running with the kite and it wasn't staying in the air. The beach was the perfect place for this kite. We didn't even have to move and it just went up in the air. I don't know who liked it more .. .James or Jocelynn.

Carter kept staring at the kite. I can just bite those cheeks!!

Jocie and Daddy flying the kite.

Carter loved the sand. He only tried it once and then didn't again. He kept picking it up and he loved the birds. He was getting so excited.

Jocie loves her brother. It took about 7 tries to get them both to look at the camera.

I love shopping for summer swimsuits. Love the blue on Carter and Jocie's cute zebra swimsuit.

James got a new job. It's amazing how quickly our lives change. I'll post about that in another post but he has a week and a half off. We've been busy doing fun things as a family before he begins his new job. We went to the beach and had such a great time. The weather was perfect, the kids were great! Moments like these, I just want time to freeze. After we went in the water and splashed around, we flew a kite and then ate at Bomb Burgers. We then shared a chocalte ice cream bar covered with sprinkles!

Jocelynn's First Talk

2011-04-17T21:59:00.002-07:00

Today was a sweet moment as a mom. Jocelynn gave her first talk in Primary today. It's not appropriate to record at church so I didn't but wanted to write down what happened. 2 weeks ago the counselor in Primary called and asked if Jocelynn would give a talk, about 5 sentences. I agreed and immediately told Jocelynn. She was thrilled!! She has been wanting to get up like the other kids. The topic was "Jesus is our Savior and Redeemer!" Perfect for the month of April, considering Easter is next week. We kept going over the sentences and it didn't take long for her to memorize it. Saturday I got a call from the same counselor that she messed up the date and it was the following week. Jocie was a little disappointed but forgot about it all week. The night before she was so excited. She wanted us all to be there! The next day after sacrament we went into Primary and she sat in the chair. My mom, dad, James and I were sitting in the back. I knew that if I sat next to her, then she would most likely want me to do it for her. I thought I'd first try to see if she could do it herself. I knew she could. I was so nervous!!! My stomach hurt for her. I didn't want her to be nervous. She was not making eye contact with us and was looking at the wall. I was wondering what she was thinking about. They asked her to go up and looked at me and I said she can do it. She walked up the pulpit and kept swallowing. I almost walked up there to save her and she started speaking. I could have cried. Jocelynn is a very bright girl. I tell her all the time that she will be an amazing leader someday. Everyone was listening to her. When she was done Sister Jensen said "Boys and Girls, Jocelynn can't even read and she just gave a talk." James leaned over and said "she can read :)" I think she gained a lot of confidence through that experience.

"Jesus is the Son of God. He teaches us to love each other. He is our example. I love Jesus and I know he loves me and you. In the name of Jesus Christ, Amen."

Jocelynn

2011-04-17T21:59:00.001-07:00

Soccer

2011-04-10T18:55:00.000-07:00

Jocie started "Multi Sport" through the city. It is just an introduction to the fundamentals of soccer, baseball and (if there's time) basketball. She loves it! It's Saturday mornings at 9am and Daddy gets to go since he's off. She's a natural. It'll be fun to see her play.

Grandma Lane

2011-04-10T18:48:00.000-07:00

We went to see Grandma. I love seeing her. Grandma said to me on Thursday with tears in her eyes, how much Jocelynn means to her. She loves her. She said "she brings me so much joy and I get excited to see her." Jocelynn reads to her and knows how much she loves her. Jocelynn said when we left "We need to go see her soon because she is all alone." I'm thankful for a daughter who is so sweet and thoughtful. I love this picture because this is what happens when we come over. My grandma always has deviled eggs and waldorf salad or macaroni salad. She sets the table so nicely and I love it. We always have a small bowl of ice cream also.

Friends and Fun

2011-04-10T18:17:00.000-07:00

Carter and JOcelynn love each other. It's so sweet. I love to see them laugh and play together. They are playing more and more together. JOcelynn loves to feed him also. I know they'll be great friends.

This is Jocelynn's good friend. THey are a couple weeks apart and love each other. She came over to play and they had a great time together. During this time they were eating cheese and I said say Cheese . . . friends!! They started laughing and saying we are cheese friends.

8 months

2011-04-10T18:09:00.000-07:00

During the 7th month Carter started doing a lot of new things. He's getting so big

Waved Hi and Bye. He would put his arm up and down
give open mouth kisses
Almost crawling. Bum in air and moving backward
Sick with runny nose most of the month
4 top teeth coming in
still likes to grab anything in sight
says aahhhh, babab, dadad
2 naps unless we went somewhere then 3
big cheesy smile
tried bread and avocado
still breastfeeds

He was sick a lot of the month. He still wakes up once sometimes 2 in the night to nurse.

Utah State University

2011-04-03T09:50:00.000-07:00

In 2006 I received my Bachelors and started the Special Ed credential program. It didn't feel right. During that time, through prayer, the spirit told me to drop out of the credential program and it was time to have a baby. I have many memories at Cal State Fullerton, especially because James and I were newlyweds together and because we are both alumni from there. Go Titans! But . . .

When Carter was 6 weeks old I started a new program, online, at Utah State. It's amazing how our Heavenly Father leads and guides us to where he knows we need to be. When I dropped out in 2006 I felt like a quitter but I'm so glad I did. He had a different plan for me. It's been different taking upper division classes with children. . . 2 children. I do regret taking a class when Carter was that little. Many say have no regrets but I think in order for us to grow and learn, regrets are ok. We all have regrets. My friend warned me not to, that I should wait a semester but I didn't listen. When I'm determined to do something I know that I can do it, and nothing will stop me. Last semester, I signed up for 2 classes and everything was fine but both kids got sick, our family was adjusting to a new baby and we were selling our place. My mom came over one evening and I hadn't slept in a week. I cried. She asked if I dropped a class or both classes. Again, I didn't want to quit, I was determined. She asked me why am I doing this to myself? I looked online the last day to drop and it was that day! I dropped the class 9pm. I still took one class that semester and that was still a lot. I feel differently about the pressure I feel to finish school. It'll happen in time. I was thinking I should take 3 classes and then I'll be done next year and maybe I should take summer school. 2 classes is enough. I work on school when my children go to bed. I am exhausted. Carter is still getting up 2 times in the night. I have 4 weeks till this semester is over and I can't wait. I have 9 classes left till I get a 2nd Bachelors in Communication Disorders. I don't know what I'll do from there. I need to get my Masters to become a Speech Pathologist but I will follow the spirit with what to do and I know if I do that, everything will work out in time.

I forgot that when school is going on that it takes up all your time. I miss having time for myself. When the kids go to bed, I miss working on a craft, working out, or doing something that I want to do. Instead I start studying. I love the feeling of accomplishment that school brings. I also love how it helps you to organize your time better. I have plans for the 14 week summer break. I have a lot of church projects I want to finish for my children. (That's for another post). I have some sewing projects and crafts I want to finish also.

I'm grateful for this online program. It has been nice to not have to be away from home. I'm excited to have a career as a speech pathologist. I do love having a career at home though and I'm loving this time in my life!

My sister is a Utah State graduate. She says we aren't true Aggies unless we kiss on the bull! So James and will have to make that trip! Can I be an Aggie and Titan fan? James says no.

Happy St Patricks Day

2011-04-03T09:45:00.000-07:00

A little leprechaun came to our home. He left clovers all over the table. Jocie had green apple jacks and green milk for breakfast. We made sure she wore a green shirt for preschool that day. At preschool she got a gold coin. They read clues that led them to the gold coins!

She even drank the milk. :/

New Cheesy Smile

2011-03-27T21:23:00.000-07:00

Carter has been doing this smile the past couple of days. Everyday its something new with this boy. He smiles so big! It cracks me up! I love him. He smiles this way especially when I sign eat, milk, bye or hi. LOVE HIM!

Sadie and Carter

2011-03-27T21:16:00.000-07:00

This is DeeDee. A good friend of mine. We went to school together. Sadie and Carter are a couple weeks apart. It was fun to see them again. They have opposite personalities so its fun to see how different they are. Sadie is very active (already crawling) and Carter just chills.

Chillin eating crackers.

So cute!!

Ashton's 3rd Birthday

2011-03-27T21:00:00.000-07:00

Jenn and Jacob Little had her son's 3rd birthday at a place called the Blue Chair in Glendora. It was a nice place, perfect for a birthday party. It was a Spiderman theme

The birthday boy being sung to.

Games were provided and Jocie loved the obstacle course.

The Blue Chair is a children's book store so a story was read also.

Rock climbing in the background was fun. She hid spiders and the had to climb the wall to find the spiders.

Spider masks, so fun!

Playdate

2011-03-27T20:52:00.000-07:00

Jocelynn has been having different friends over. She has lots of friends. THis is Ashlee from church and preschool. THey had a great time together.

Attitude is everything!

2011-03-25T22:26:00.000-07:00

Attitude is everything!

Everyday life throws something new at us. We CHOOSE how we handle it.

"One day an old lady woke up and looked in the mirror and only had three strands of hair on her head and said,"Mmmm, today I think I will braid my hair." She did and had a great day!

The second day she woke up and looked in the mirror and had two strands of hair and said,"Mmmm, today I think I will part my hair down the middle." She did and had a great day!

The third day she woke up and had only one strand of hair and said,"Mmmm, I think I will wear my hair in a pony tail today." She did and had a great day.

The next day, she woke up and had NO hair. She said,"I am sure glad I don't have to do my hair today!!" ATTITUDE IS EVERYTHING!!

What have I done?

2011-03-25T20:19:00.000-07:00

I've messed my whole blog up and I don't have time or know how to get it back. If anyone would be so kind to walk me through how I get a background and all my information that would be wonderful! I can't find the design button where all my gadgets are??

For Sale

2011-03-23T22:32:00.000-07:00

I should be in bed right now. Instead I'm up doing laundry. I wasn't planning on doing laundry until Friday but my husband has his 3rd interview tomorrow and just informed me that he doesn't have a clean shirt to wear. Usually I add a picture or 2 but today I don't have a picture . . . just my thoughts.

Life has been busy. . . since Carter has been born. When I first became pregnant with Carter we decided to put our place up for sale. We thought it would sell before he was born. We weren't sure where we would go but felt that it was the best decision for us. It was fine the first 6 months. It was not bad keeping a house clean with just one child and especially when I was in the nesting phase of my pregnancy. It started to get annoying though, the day before Carter was born. We had a buyer and they wanted to check it out. I made a promise to my Heavenly Father when we decided to sell the place that I would keep the place as clean as I could and anytime a buyer wanted to see the place I would make it available. That's all I could do right? The rest was in his hands. Well I did all that. So although I was having contractions I'd say sure come on over. I still remember the father and his daughter walking through saying "so when r u due?" I said "tomorrow!" They did a double take and said tomorrow? That was when it started to get not so fun. I mean it was already 7 months. We should have been in a new place by then. I've learned to go with the flow of things though. It takes a lot for things to get me down. I remember getting phone calls in the hospital after hours of having Carter. I'd answer my phone, thinking it was someone congratulating me but it was a realtor. I could go on and on about what has happened. I don't do well with chaos and not being organized. I know once the condo is sold and school is out for the semester I will feel like I have more of a handle on things. In January, we decided to move in with my parents for awhile. We are grateful and it's been nice not having to live with things packed away. Through all the other things on my mind that life can bring, we were blessed with such a sweet, calm spirit. He touches my heart. Carter could not have come at a more perfect time in our lives. Through all the chaos and craziness, it's like he gets it and just understands. He definitely has been a blessing and joy! Through all the life experiences I've had up to this point, I have learned to trust in my Heavenly Father. "Trust in him and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways, acknowledge him and he will direct thy path." My favorite scripture. I know he sees our potential and who we can and will become. I know through all the trials life brings that if we turn to him, the trials can be opportunities for us to grow. I love my family and this time in my life. Someday we will say "remember when . . . "

8 years

2011-03-21T22:06:00.000-07:00

8 years tomorrow. Time has flown. 8 experiences we've had together

1. graduated from Cal State Fullerton together with our Bachelors
2. James graduated with his Masters from Cal Baptist
3. Purchased a condo
4. Had 2 children
5. bought our first car together and paid it off
6. took our first trip together to Oregon
7. James changed companies
8. Currently selling our condo

The journey this far has been incredible. He is my best friend. He makes me a better person. I look forward to out future and all we are working hard for. "Success is our only option." Success in our relationship, with our children, in our careers, in the gospel. We won't settle for anything less but this takes time and we are patient.

We went to Zips to celebrate. I had yellowtail sushi and teriyaki salmon and tempura and california rolls. It was so good. We then went to Barnes and nobles and a couple other places.

I love this man with all my heart. He works so hard and is so humble.

Carter has been sick. I came home and he was asleep on my mom.

Thank you for a wonderful 8 years!

Is it summer?

2011-03-21T22:01:00.000-07:00

The weather has been so beautiful the past 2 weeks. It's just been perfect even hot enough for a swim. Jocelynn was bored and we don't have a pool so I filled a bucket of water. This was perfect. I love this new swimsuit. She looked so cute!

Can't wait for the summer . . . beach and pool!!

Gabrielle and Jocelynn

2011-03-21T21:51:00.000-07:00

Baby G and Jocelynn. Gabrielle is a year and a half. We love to visit her dad and grandma. Jocelynn is close with her grandma and calls her Grandma Alice. We love to see them and look forward to our visits together! These 2 are only 2 years apart and this was the first visit that they've started playing together. I know they will be close friends!

She loved seeing Carter and kept calling him baby!

The flash was making her eyes close! We love you Gabrielle!

7 months

2011-03-21T21:39:00.000-07:00

Carter is 7 months. He has been doing so many new things recently. Here are some things that happened.

pushes on his feet and lifts up his bum (maybe crawling soon)
loves to chew on these jenga blocks
loves to pick up anything small on the floor
loves to hit and chew on his dad and sister
goes to bed at 7pm
still gets up once or 2 times
naps 2 or 3 times in the day
says dadadad, babababa
was sick for 2 weeks
he was constipated and had to stay away from apples and bananas
still breastfeeding
happy, calm boy
at times, cries with strangers
chews on his pacifier

Carter was sick for 2 weeks during this month. He had so much mucous in his nose. I had to suction his nose constantly, he had a bad cough (possibly croup) and was grumpy. Didn't sleep well and I was so exhausted. We made it through. . . although now he is sick again. It's not as bad as it was though. He's a good baby and hard to believe the time is passing so fast. Makes me sad.

Fun with Cousins

2011-03-13T22:20:00.000-07:00

My brother took his wife Rachel out for the night. The kids stayed at my moms. It was a lot of fun and great spending time with them. Jocie loved it! Love this face of Nathans.

Swinging on the swings outside.

Jocie had her first sleep over with her cousins. She LOVED it!