The Caruso Clan

This and That

2012-02-08T20:28:00.000-08:00

Bella's kitchen she got from Nona for Christmas is one of her favorite toys. I can usually always find her in her room, dressing herself up with makeup and shoes, or playing with her little kitchen.

Conrad and Braxton love it almost just as much!

And then there is the walker Nona gave Conrad...her toys are always a hit! (Thanks Mom! :) )

Santa brought me a bike this year, and a trailer along with it to pull the kiddos so we can go on family bike rides. The weather has been SPECTACULAR so we have taken many a bike rides already this year!

Justin with C-Rad on his back. Conrad won't sit in the trailer...he just cries the whole time for some reason, so thankfully we have this awesome backpack (also from Nona!) to carry him in. HE LOVES IT!

Brax and Bella in the trailer. Bella being stubborn, of course. We love bike rides!

And here is our Beautiful Bella Rose in her gorgeous dress from Aunt Patti! Bella looks just like a princess in it and it is definitely her favorite dress to wear right now. (Sorry Patti, I can't get the boys to pose in their suits, but I haven't given up yet! Hopefully I will have one for you soon.)

So how do YOU transport the laundry from the wash room to the kids room when your chillins' won't let you out of their site without screaming??

Here's how we like to do it! (There is a rope attached to the basket so I can pull them in it.)

Wahoo!

Conrad was being really cranky for a couple days, which is totally out of character for him, especially since I knew he wasn't teething or anything. Then early one morning he had a NASTY diaper and I opened it to start changing it and what did I find???

A TINY BELL!

Poor kid. No wonder he was cranky. I wouldn't be happy passing that through my system either. SO grateful he was able to swallow it though without choking on it.

I'm a Soccer Mom!

2012-01-30T20:17:00.000-08:00

Braxton started in his first soccer league, and he is doing SO GOOD! I have to say though, he is his daddy's boy through and through. Its been really interesting to see how he plays with the other kids and what his attitude is on the field. He is competitive and aggressive with going after the ball and making goals, so much so that he gets upset if he doesn't "win" when he misses the goal or if another kid gets the ball from him (which doesn't happen often.) This is a great experience for him to be able to learn some good sportsmanship, and to learn than its ok if he doesn't win. What matters is that you have FUN! (His daddy may think a little differently...we are working on a good balance. :) ) I love watching him play though. He has a blast. This is the start of a something great!

HIS FIRST GAME

PRACTICE, PRACTICE, PRACTICE!!

Angles Among Us

2012-01-25T21:07:00.000-08:00

I had an experience the other day that a witness to me that the Lord does hear and answer my prayers.

We were in a friend's backyard playing and I was swinging Conrad. The swing was like one you would see at a park - a bar across the front but no straps. It was attached to the ceiling on the back porch. I didn't think anything of it since I was standing right there swinging him and he isn't big enough to climb out on his own. Braxton asked if he could push him, and I said "sure" but warned him to swing him softly, then turned for a few seconds to admire a fruit tree behind me. Literally, it was like two seconds. When I turned back around, what I saw made my heart slam into the concrete floor beneath me. Braxton was standing behind the swing looking panicked, and my sweet baby boy was dangling completely upside down from the swing that had somehow been turned over. It took me no more than 2 seconds to leap to his side, but every millisecond it took me to get there I pictured him falling a thousand times to the hard concrete below. And yet, hanging completely upside down from a swing with no straps, his arms flailing and body wiggling in fear, he didn't budge until I could grab him and pull him into the safety of my arms.

I pray every night for angels to watch over my children and be by their side constantly to guard and protect them, and I witnessed firsthand the answer to my prayers that day. I don't have any doubt in my mind there was an angel holding my little baby in that swing until I could get him out. There is no other way he could have been held in there. My prayers were much longer that night. :) I thanked the Lord over and over that He listens to the pleas of a mother's heart and sends his angels to be my children's guardians. And I am so grateful for a loving Father who loves me enough to make my concerns His own and watches out for my family.

"Oh I believe there are angels among us.
Sent down to us from somewhere up above.
They come to you and me in our darkest hour.
To show us how to live, to teach us how to give.
To guide us with the light of love."
Angels Among Us, Alabama

December

2012-01-01T22:32:00.001-08:00

December was a busy, crazy, wonderful month! So much happened, and I tried to document it all with pictures, so that means LOTS of pictures! Ready???? Here we go!

OUR BEAUTIFUL NEW TABLE!!!

This was our Christmas gift from Justin's mother, (it actually came a couple months ago) and WE LOVE LOVE LOVE LOVE LOVE IT!!!! It is hand carved from the trees around her home in New York, and it is so beautiful and perfect for our family and kitchen. We couldn't have asked for anything better. ( Or more needed! Our old table was falling apart...)

THANK YOU NONA!!! :) WE LOVE YOU!

BELLA'S DANCE RECITAL

This girl was born to dance. And she's so stinkin' cute at it, too. I can't wait to see where this will take her in life. Ever hear of "living through your kids?" Ya, that will be me. :)

BRAXTON'S FOURTH BIRTHDAY!!!

Theme: SUPER MARIO of course!

We had planned to do it at a park, but when the weather turned cold and rainy, we moved it to our home, and I'm glad we did. It turned out really well and Braxton had a blast!

The Birthday Boy!!

My lovely sis Alisha

EVeryone's loving the TACO SOUP. That was Brax's choice, and a good one!

The kids, going on a YOSHI EGG hunt! (Easter eggs with chocolate gold coins inside)

My other lovely sis SHALIAH with my boy Conrad

Bella swingin' at the Pinata

Wyatt Speakman

Braxton swinging hard. Hyrum was the one who broke it

CANDY CANDY CANDY

Aunt Angie with his wonderful Super Mario birthday cake. I had no idea what I was going to do for a cake, so this amazing woman saved my life. Thanks Angie!!!

Super Mario Smashbros...what else?

HAPPY BIRTHDAY MY SWEET BOY!

DECORATING COOKIES

Its not Christmas ti' you decorate some sugar cookies!

Our friends Aubray, Ginger, Harrison and Ransom joined us for the fun

You gotta love this kid's "Cheese!" face...he's such a goof!

GINGERBREAD HOUSES

WAY better than sugar cookies, if ya ask me...

Landon, Swanson and Angie

Of course they probably ate twice as much candy than they actually put on the houses!

Ah! I love this kid!

Adding the finishing touches to Landon's masterpiece

Again, he's a goof

CHRISTMAS PARTIES
Grandma and Grandpa Speakman's was the best!

More sugar cookies...

Grandpa, layin' on the love!!!

My Pretty Bella Rose

THE POLAR EXPRESS
We took the kiddos up to Williams, Az to ride the POlar Express and see Santa this year!
One word to describe the trip?
CCCCOOOOOOOLLLLDDDD!!!!
I am so glad I live in Arizona! (Mesa, Az to be exact!)

Braxton loved playing in the snow

It was alot of work with the kids being so young, but I'm glad we went. May wait another year or two to go again, but overall it was worth it!

Boarding the train!

Everyone is so excited!

ITS SANTA!!!!!!!!

That look, right there, made the whole trip worth it.
Christmas is magical!

CHRISTMAS 2012

Christmas Morning

Merry Christmas!

Of course Conrad loved the bags and bows and ribbons more than anything else. ..

But then came Nona's (Grandma Bebe's) present...

He loves it!!!

Bella opening her jewelry/make-up from Nona

Another Mario game from Santa. Wahoo!

Bella's BEAUTIFUL dress from Aunt Patti!!
THANK YOU AUNT PATTI!!
The clothes/PJ's are WONDERFUL!

Braxton opening up his brand new WAGON from NONA! He LOVES it and takes his siblings on rides in it all day long. Thank you Nona!

I tried so hard to surprise Justin with something fun this year...

He was definitely surprised!!! Merry Christmas Baby!
(And best part?? Got the table from a friend, for a VERY reasonable price...FREE!! WAHOO!!! )

The "after" mess

Eatin brunch with Aunt Angie, Swanson and Landon...
Eggs, sausage rolls, pumpkin pancakes, orange juice, strawberry jello dessert, ...YUM YUM!!! My mouth is watering just remembering how delicious it all was.

MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!

It was a wonderful year with lots of exciting changes in our family. 2012...Bring it on!!!

2011-12-30T01:52:00.000-08:00

December update coming soon!

Until then...Quickie Update:

-Braxton (on the pottie): "I'm trying to go poop, but its not coming out! (smacks his bum) Come on poo! Get out of my bum!"
-"I had a dream last night about a big giant circle...and it was trying to eat me!"
-B-rax LLLOOOOOVVVEESSS anything and everything to do with Super Mario
-He is FOUR years old now! I can't believe it...
-I was called a "mean mommie" for the first time in my mothering career, by B-rax of course, because he could not have candy before dinner. I didn't mind one bit.

-Bella: "Where is my shoe? Oh! There it is! Oh I love it!"
-Bella knows the alphabet, can count to 20 and knows all her colors
-She LOVES her Daddy and sings "I'm So Glad When Daddy Comes Home" every day with him when he gets home from work
-She is constantly sharing her food with the dogs, no matter how many times I ask/tell her not to. SHe will take a bite, ("One for me..") then give one to Marley, ("...one for Marley...") and then give one to Loui ("..and one for Loui!") and do that throughout her whole meal. The dogs love it. Me, not so much.

-Conrad is crawling like a champ and pulling himself up onto anything and everything.
-He has cut four teeth in one month.
-He won't eat baby food, but loves little pieces of anything mom puts into her mouth. (Except baby food....)
-He is my big fluffy marshmallow!
-"Gagagaga" was his favorite word today...ALL day
-Wants to be doing whatever his big brother and sister are doing
-LOVES going outside, and gets mad at me whenever I walk by the back door and don't go through it to go out
-Is NINE MONTHS OLD!

Thanksgiving 2011

2011-12-07T14:44:00.001-08:00

BELLA CAN RIDE HER BIKE BY HERSELF!

I chopped my hair...LOVE IT!

Cant get enough of this girl

My happy boy - He brings so much joy to my heart

Thanksgiving this year was wonderful. We ate with my family the Saturday before Thanksgiving day because Johno left on his mission the Tuesday before. Its always so wonderful to be together - especially when there is GREAT food to partake of. :)

The Grandkids

Enjoying the above said GREAT food...yum yum!

The pies! Oh, the pies. My mouth is watering just thinking about how wonderful they were!

A small sampling of that GREAT food

Playing ball after the dinner

SO FULL and sitting around like stuffed turkeys- enjoying each other's company and the BEAUTIFUL weather

My boy is a tree climber

Elder Johnathan Speakman, hours before departure to Africa. We sure miss this kid.

2011-11-27T20:19:00.001-08:00

Within the past 2 weeks: (pics coming as soon as my comp will cooperate with me)

- Conrad cut his two bottom teeth
- He started to crawl!
- I chopped my hair, and LOVE it
- Bella can strap herself into her own carseat without help (actually more like a month ago)
- Braxton has become addicted to Super Mario
- My brother Johnathan left on his mission to Zambia, Africa!!
- Thanksgiving came and went, and it was wonderful
- I am ALMOST back down to the weight I was in college (WAHOO!)
- Justin has finally started his own real estate investing company and is almost ready to make his first deal!
- We've been doing ALOT of playing outside, at the park, swinging on swings, riding bikes, and going on walks. I LOVE this time of year!
- Started listening to Christmas music
- Put up Christmas lights and decorations around house
- We are living life and loving it!

Conrad Photo Shoot, 7 months

2011-11-17T20:26:00.001-08:00

Thank you Stacy for getting some adorable shots of my kiddo! You're awesome!!

CONRAD PETER CARUSO

7 Months

FINALLY got a camera!!!

2011-11-07T21:13:00.000-08:00

Beware...picture overload!

My happy happy boy... 7 months!

Happy birthday to me!! It was a wonderful day. Thank you to all who made it so!

Brax and Bella with friendly neighbor cows. They have officially named them "Thomas." All of them.

Enjoying the lovely weather

At the park!

Bell Peppers. YUM!

HALLOWEEN 2011

"Peace out!"

LOVE this pic! Brax was saying "Booo!" Like his ghost. :)

Yummy graveyard dessert!!

Joey. Pretty freaky, eh?

ME AND ME SISTAS!!!

Sweet moments

2011-11-03T21:27:00.000-07:00

11-2-11

-Conrad sat in a high chair for the first time
-Conrad actually ATE his baby food for the first time! (I was SO ECXITED! No more food being spit or thrown back into my face!)

-Bella sat down on her bike and out of nowhere just started pedaling and riding all over the driveway! She has not been able to figure out the pedaling thing before, but today it just "clicked." So fun to watch her excitement over it.

-Braxton announced his new favorite song is "I Hope they Call Me On A Mission" and sang it nonstop all day. I was ok with that.
-Braxton did things constantly all day for me, and every time he would do a nice deed, he would say "its because I love you mom!" or "thats why I love you mommy!" Sweet, sweet moments.

This is what life is about.

Milestones

2011-10-16T21:30:00.000-07:00

Something funny Bella did today:

She had her binkie and it wasn't bedtime, so I told her she needed to give it to me. She said, "no mom!" then after bribing her with something else I knew she would want more, she looked longingly and then lovingly at her binkie, gave it a big hug and then a big fat kiss before she handed it over. What a goose!

Braxton is doing great in preschool. He is at the top of his class and is friends with everyone there. He saw a kiss on tv the other day (not necessarily a "simple" kiss) and proclaimed "I want to try that!" and ran over to me to give it a shot! AH! Hence he had his first lesson on kissing and when its appropriate and with whom. He still likes giving my cheek a nice wet one a couple times a day though.

Conrad starting sitting up a couple weeks ago and just yesterday started getting up on his knees and rocking back and forth. Crawling is just around the corner! He has been saying 'Mama" for about a month and just this week started saying "dada" and using his consonants more. I love hearing his little voice!

Quote for the day:
"Life isn't about waiting for the storm to pass... It's about learning to dance in the rain!"

2011-10-15T21:51:00.000-07:00

Conrad and Bella had their doctor visits yesterday. Well, it was actually COnrad's 6 mo appt., and Bella had to get some immunizations updated while we were there. Conrad is healthy and strong and still a CHUNK. 21 lb., 27 in. He above the 90th percentile for weight, and I think it was around 75th for height. He is wearing 12-18 mo clothes already!! I LOVE it. He is my big fluffy marshmallow, and sweet as one too. The immunizations were horrible, though. I will never take them at the same time again to get their shots! Bella went first and of course she is old enough to know what was coming, so she was already screaming bloody murder before she even got poked. I hate the look in their eyes while you are holding them down, like "Mom, WHY ARE YOU DOING THIS TO ME?" Its torture! So of course when she started screaming Conrad started crying and Braxton was shouting above it all "See mom, I told you it was going to hurt!" Ya, that helps son. Sheesh. It was a miserable 5 minutes, one I hope to never have to encounter again.

On a happier note, FALL IS ALMOST HERE!!! Well, it IS here, but it is FINALLY beginning to FEEL like Fall! At least in the morning... I wake up and open all our windows and just breathe in that crisp morning air! (Its hot again by like 10, but first few hours are heavenly!) Pumpkin pancakes, spiced cider, hot chocolate, apple cranberry bakes, sweaters, holidays, changing colors, falling leaves....I LOVE FALL!! Hope you're all enjoying this beautiful time of year!

(FYI...I am currently camera-less, hence the lack of pics. Planning to get one soon!)

I Glimpse into my Life

2011-10-03T21:54:00.001-07:00

My Bella

2011-10-03T21:45:00.000-07:00

Let me tell ya a little something about my Bella Rose.

She is perfect.

In every way.

From her head, to her nose, from her fingers to her toes. In tantrums, in play, in kisses, in smiles and hugs, stink-eyes, grumpiness, laughter, tears, in dance, in dreams, in anger or naughtiness, in tricks, in giggles, in messes, in cuddles and eskimo kisses and butterfly kisses, in singing, biting or kicking, excitement and joy, in her dainty little expressions, in talking or snuggling or loving.

No matter what she is doing, good or bad, happy or sad, I wouldn't change a single thing about her.

She is perfect.

How I love my Bella Rose!

2011-09-15T14:54:00.000-07:00

SHE'S HOME!!!! It is so wonderful to have her back.

Waiting at the Airport...

Johno and Bella

Mom and Shaliah...so excited!!! Giddy with anticipation

Like father like son?? Seriously... he is his daddy's boy!!

B-rax

Becca and Nathan and baby Margaret

And.....HERE SHE COMES!!! We tried to sing "Hello Alisha" (to the tune of "Hello Dolly" ) but only got about 4 seconds of it before everyone was bawling.

The First Hug.

Didn't get any other pictures after this cause everyone was hugging and crying and just got to distracted to take pictures! She looks AWESOME and is doing so well.

GOSH I LOVE THIS GIRL!!!

2011-09-07T21:18:00.000-07:00

My sister comes home from her mission in Jamaica tomorrow.

It has been a long 18 months, and I am so excited for her to be a part of our lives again.

I'm ready to have my best friend back!

They Keep On a Growin'!

2011-08-28T21:45:00.000-07:00

Life is good here. Bella has grown like 2 in. in the past 2 months. SHe has started talking more clearly and pronouncing her words better, and every little baby (meaning kid younger than her, even by a few months) she sees she has to give them a big hug and try to "help" them walk, sit up, whatever. Of course its usually more of a hinderance to them than a help, but its so cute to see her mothering instinct be so strong at such a young age. Just within the past couple weeks, she puts "y" at the end of everything she says. "Where is my drinky?" "Can I have more juicy?" "Upy!" (Meaning "I want you to hold me") "I'm gonna tickle your feetsy!" "I wanna kissy!" No idea where she got it from, but its stinkin' cutesy!

Braxton started preschool this week! I can't believe my first little baby is going to preschool. He already LOVES it and is so proud of his little blue folder he takes back and forth with him. He has to show it to anyone who comes over, and he even asked to take it to church today so show all his friends and teacher there! He goes with his little buddy Jack and cousin Wyatt, so that I think has helped him adjust quickly and not be too sad to be away from me. I am excited for this school year and to see how much he learns and grows, both mentally and socially.

Conrad is just my happy little angel. He smiles all day, and smiles with his whole face. I love it and can never get enough. He loves to snuggle with me, loves being held, and is content to just hang onto my shirt like a little monkey while I go about my business and watch what I go. I love his wet slobbery kisses he gives me all day while he chatters away. What a blessing he is! He has been teething the last like 6 weeks, but those bottom gums are just being so stinkin' stubborn and won't let those two teeth pop through. He has been a little crankier than normal lately because of that but I still can't complain. Even WHILE he is teething he is an angel. He started baby cereal this last week and is totally excited about it, but not sure what he thinks of the taste yet. (He watches everything I put into my mouth like a hawk and always tries to grab it and stuff it into his own.) I am so in love with this little guy and wish he would stop growing so fast. I love this baby stage and am eating up every second I can get.

2011-08-24T21:56:00.001-07:00

I heard a quote a couple months ago at stake conference that has stuck with me and become part of my life. It was,

"Never let a problem to be solved become more important than a person to be loved."

I think about this every day. When my kids run through my newly mopped kitchen with fresh mud covering their feet. When all I want is peace and quiet and my children are playing the "who can scream the loudest game." When I FINALLY lay the baby down, only to have one or both hooligans run into my room laughing and screaming and wake him up again. All throughout my days situations happen where I am so tempted to lose patience with my children. And I do, alot. But EVERY time, this quote jumps into my brain. Its like the Lord is saying, "Ah Ah Ah, Sarah, remember!" And I have to stop, take a breath, and remind myself that its ok. I can mop the floor again. I can get the baby back to sleep, or enjoy peace and quiet that night when they are all dreaming in their beds. I have learned that its not worth the pain I see on their sweet little faces when I DO lose control. Because this life is all about relationships. Of everything we have here on this wonderful earth, that and our knowledge are the only things we are able to take with us. How sad would it be if I try so hard to make something right, only to make one of my children (or someone else) feel unloved along the way? Its something I am working on, and always will. I certainly haven't mastered it yet. But its always in my head, and I am grateful for that constant reminder. We could all use a little more love.

A Dream is a Wish the Heart Makes...

2011-08-07T22:15:00.000-07:00

I was in the living room with Conrad early one morning, making the kids hot chocolate (they can't start their day without hot chocolate!) when Braxton suddenly runs in, eyes huge, hair a mess, staggering like a drunken man.

"MOM!" He said. "Santa Clause left me a present!" He started searching around the room frantically.

"Uh........" I stuttered as he tore apart the living room, "I think it was a dream, Braxton."

He stopped and looked at me like I'm crazy.

"Mom, no, Santa Claus left me a SHOOT GUN! And one for Bella too! Its over there!" And he runs over to where our Christmas tree usually stands.

"Braxton," I giggle "I think you had a dream. Its not time for Santa to come yet. Its not Christmas time."

"No, mom, Santa Claus gave me a shoot gun. Maybe its in my room." He dashed off to search for his treasure. I can't stop laughing at this point, but am feeling a bit bad too that there isn't going to be a present anywhere for my sweet boy. After a few minutes he comes walking back into the living room, looking dejected. My heart cracks a little for his dashed hopes.

"I'm sorry son. It must have been a dream. Dreams can seem really real sometimes, huh? But maybe when it IS Christmas time then Santa will bring you a shoot gun. Ok?"

Braxton's little freckled face was still and I could see his mind working, trying to figure out this mystery. "I thought he brought me a gun..." he lamented. My sweet boy. I never wished dreams could come true more in my life than at that moment.

A hug, kiss, and a warm sippy cup of hot chocolate and 10 minutes into Caillou, you were your happy self again. I was still laughing.

Bella's 2nd Bday! (Finally!)

2011-07-24T21:26:00.001-07:00

I took Bella and Brax and some of our good friends to Jambo, an indoor theme park for kids for her birthday. The prices are way cheap for all day rides, and the kids LOVED it! Its definitely a place we will be visiting often this summer!

(I edited these pics, but for some reason they uploaded pre-edited...annoying. Sorry!)

This was Bella's favorite ride...the airplanes

My perfect little man

The train was awesome..they all loved it

A ride where you can beat eachother up without getting hurt? DEFINITELY Brax's favorite ride!

Cute vampire teeth. Of course my son has to be the one trying to bite someone's ear off..

Then on the 4th of July we combined celebrations and had a big party for Bella's and our country's birthday!

Swimming, food, presents, BAHAMA BUCKS, wonderful family and friends...can't get any better than that!

My pappa and baby boy

Birthday girl and her pretty bracelet Aubray made for her!

Our dear friend Aubray, 8 months prego!

Nate dog

Justin, playing with the kiddos in the pool

Becca and baby Margaret

Cannon Ball!!!! (Brax)

Aileen and Hannah

My wonderful mother, making Bella's cake to take some of the load off my back. I love this woman!

Jer-bear and Hannah, enjoying some red, white and blue Bahama bucks baby! Wahoo!

YUM!

THE CAKE!!! Isn't it AWESOME!!! My moms the best

PRESENTS!

And then we of course couldn't miss out on the fireworks that night! We all gathered and Nathan and Becca's new house and had our own firework display and let the kids get involved. Much more fun that way!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY MY SWEET BELLA!!!! You are loved more than you know.

Life's A Movin' Forward

2011-07-17T21:55:00.001-07:00

I got my first "big" calling in church this week. Well, at least it feels big to me! The bishop and his councilor came over Thursday night to release me from Young Women's, and thats where I thought it ended. I was so sad to be released, young women's has seriously been my dream calling for so long. I love those girls and their beautiful testimonies and sweet spirits. It was truly a gift to be with them for as long as I was. But I had heard for some weeks that our whole YW and Relief Society were being changed out, so I wasn't too surprised to learn I was released. Then came the next part. One of other women who was with me in YW, who I look up to and admire so much, was called to be the new Relief Society president, and she wanted me as her secretary...

WHOA. If it had been anyone else as president, I would have thought maybe she didn't know my situation with how much of my time my children take up and wonder if I could really do this calling. But I have worked closely with her the past year and I know she knows how crazy Braxton and Bella are and how Conrad is attached at my hip, so if she knows that and has talked with the Lord and still believes I can still do this...then I will trust her and the Lord and give it my all, however much that may be. I think she has more confidence in me than I have in myself at this point though.

But I am excited too. I am excited to be working with her and the two other sweet and wonderful women that were called as her councilors. I have hardly been in RS at all since being married because my callings have taken me elsewhere, but the times I have been in there the spirit is so strong and there is such a feeling of sisterhood and love. I know they will all be so patient with me and understanding of my crazy kids, cause most of them have been there themselves. This will be a great chance for me to learn and grow and learn how to prioritize my time better. I have been feeling kind of stagnant lately in my spiritual and intellectual growth. Its hard to feel intellectual sometimes when you are talking baby talk to little children, discussing super heros and my little ponies, and wiping spit up off your shirt for the 100th time. Not that I resent any of that - its just takes some effort to remember I do indeed have a college degree. So I'm excited to be able to have an opportunity to challenge me again and help me grow. My biggest worry was finding time to do it all, but the bishop blessed me today to be able to indeed find that time and still have the needed time for my family and children. I am so grateful for an caring and in-tune bishop, and for a loving Savior and Father who know what I need and bless me with the ability to achieve it.

Funny thing is, two days after I got my call, Justin was visited by a member of the stake presidency and given another calling as well. Second councilor in the Elder's Quarum Presidency! He still teaches Sunday school and is the cub scout committee chairman, so until (and even after) he is released, he is going to be a busy boy. He will be wonderful, though. He is such a natural and strong leader. I am excited for the growth this will give him as well, and the opportunities it will hopefully present for our family to serve more. I have been thinking we need to do more service so our children can learn to put others before themselves. Ask and ye shall receive, right? :)

Life is moving forward, and how wonderful it is!

2011-07-16T14:52:00.000-07:00

Something cute Braxton said today:

"Oh I am so full Mommy..."

"Oh ya?"

"Ya. See?" (patting his tummy) "Its saying, 'no more food!'"

P.S. My camera is currently MIA. As soon as I find it, Bella's Bday Bash will be up and runnin'!

Apples Apples Apples

2011-06-26T21:18:00.000-07:00

A couple weeks ago my wonderful fam came over and helped me harvest my apple tree. No way I was going to get it done myself. From one tree, we got about 60 bags of apples. SIXTY! After about half of them were picked we stopped actually pickin' and just started shaking the branches to get them off...

My momma holding Brookie's baby, Sundee.

I love my Pappa!

THe kids had a ball playing around in our yard while we worked

Picking away!

Here they are...and you can't even see them all! I have been dehydrating and canning and juicing and making applesauce like crazy. I love that I have a tree that provides us with so much food, but boy is it alot of work. I am so sick of apples right now! And after all that and all the bags I have given away, I still have a ton left.

Anyone want to take some off my hands??

PLEASE??

Kiddos Photo Shoot 2011

2011-06-21T15:51:00.000-07:00

So I finally got updated pics taken of the kids! Granted, it was back in February, before Conrad was born, but hey, better posting them late than never, right? There were some really awesome ones, but these were my faves. I certainly got some cuties for kiddos!

Picture Catch-Up

2011-05-29T20:25:00.000-07:00

Conrad, 2 weeks old

Beautiful Bella. They don't come more precious than that...

Easter!! We had an awesome party the day before hosted by Becca and her cousin. The kids had a blast and they LOVED the easter egg hunt!

Easter Morning...

Conrad, One month Old on Easter Morn

Easter Sunday, all dressed up and ready to go! (B-rax is still learning how to hold Conrad...)

I have a very sweet and dear friend who decided to spoil my children and give them gifts. Brax and Bella both were given these totally awesome lounge chairs. They seriously sit in these anytime they are in the livingroom, watching tv, reading books, playing with toys, whatever. They are so in love with them! I could not have chosen a better gift for them myself. Thank you Nettie!! You are wonderful!! (They were actually saying "thank you" when I snapped the picture... :) )

My chillins, being posers for the camera. They are some good lookin' kids, if I do say so myself! :) Conrad - 2 month!

Here is a better picture of Conrad. 2 mo, and already trying to be just like his big brother! :)

These kids are growing like weeds!! Braxton starts swim lessons this Tuesday with Sis Rogers and will take them all of June. It will be so nice to have him swimming and not have to worry about him around the pool anymore. He already does pretty well with just his floaties, but you know there is always that worry about when he doesn't have them on, or if they snuck in the pool somehow, at least I know he is safe. Bella will be in them next year hopefully. Then he starts PRESCHOOL in Sept!! Wahoo! I am so excited for him to have something else other than me to stimulate his brain and social skills, but at the same time I am so sad. I can't believe my little baby boy is already about to start preschool. Then its kindergarten...and I cant even think about that yet. I start to hiperventilate just thinking about it! Bella is turning 2 in another month, and I swear she has grown at least 2 inches just in the past month. She is getting thinner and her hair is getting longer and she is turning into a little girl...no longer a toddler! She is all girl, loving the shoes and hair stuff and clothes and purses and dollies and make-up...I am already looking forward to the time when she and I can go on shopping dates and just have mommy-daughter time together!! :) She is so precious. Her answer to anything that I ask her right now is "cause I want to!" Bella, why did you take off your diaper? "Cuz I want to!" Bella, why did you take your shoes off? "Cuz I want to!" Bella, why did you drop your sippy? "Cuz I want to!" Bella, why did you leave your purse over there? "Cuz I want to!" As I said, ALL girl. :) I love her to pieces. Conrad is getting chunkier by the day and I love it! He is such a sweet angel baby. He had a few fussy weeks where he just cried and cried in the afternoons and evenings, and it was horrible. i thought it might be the dairy or chocolate I was eating so I cut both out of my diet....and let me tell ya... Nothing but the love of a mother for her child would make me give up dairy (frozen yogurt, cheese, milk, yogurt!!) and chocolate! It was one of the hardest things I have ever had to do, and I was so depressed that I might have to do it until I was done nursing. YIKES! Thankfully though it turned out it wasn't that, he was just having a few hard weeks, so I was able to eat my favortite foods again. I think I ate Fro Yo like 2x a day for two or three days straight right after I started eating dairy again. :) I'm addicted. So anyways, he is doing so much better and is just a wonderfully wonderful baby. I love love love him and adore smooching his fluffy cheeks and listening to him coo and flirt with me!!!

Hope everyone has a happy Memorial Day! Thank you to all those who have served our country so we can enjoy the freedoms we have today. Your sacrifice will never be forgotten!

Help!! And other random sentimental ramblings

2011-05-15T21:56:00.000-07:00

So I need some help/advise from all you mommies out there.

Bella has learned how to climb out of her crib. She comes into our room multiple times each night and climbs into bed with Justin and I, and no amount of bribery or coaxing will get her back into her own bed. I have to wait until she falls back asleep (which sometimes is hours) and then take her back to her bed, praying she doesn't wake back up on the way. I wouldn't mind so much if I didn't have an infant that I was already waking up with multiple times a night, but if I now have to deal with Bella too I will be a walking zombie. I've done that before. Its no fun. Braxton was older when he started climbing out of his crib and was sleeping better at night than Bella is, so this is new territory for me. Plus I was able to go into his room to lay next to him to help him fall back asleep. I can't do that with Bella anymore...Conrad needs me more. (And because I am TIRED of being TIRED and not getting any sleep!) I am frustrated. We were FINALLY at a good place with her being able to put herself back to sleep after minimal crying each night, and the second she learned she could escape her little cage, that all went out the window! SO...what do I do?!?!

On a more nostolgic note, I sat at stared at the new toddler bed we got for her for a long time after putting it in her room and had to hold back the tears. I can't believe my baby girl is already almost 2, and out of her little baby crib. I'm not ready for her to be in a "big girl" bed yet! And Conrad is almost outgrowing his bassinet and will need that crib here soon. Why do they have to grow so fast? I try to cherish every precious moment I have with them, and still my sweet babies are slipping through my fingers and growing into children. Next thing I know they will be going on missions or off to college or getting married and LEAVING ME! While I watched Braxton fall asleep the other night I thought about what it will be like when he leaves on a mission, and I felt such panic already. My little boy is going to someday leave me to go into the world, and I won't be there to hold him or kiss his owies or wipe away his tears or tickle him or see his beautiful smiles and hear his bubbly laughter. And then he is going to come home and get married and ya know, for a moment while I stared at my little boy I suddenly understood why some mothers strongly dislike their daughter-in-laws! That boy is MINE! :) I have been here and cared for him, and will be here to care for him through every moment of his life, an to think that there will someday be another woman in his life that will be his world....it makes my heart hurt. I sometimes get impatient and can't wait for these babies to grow up so I can sleep a full night through again, or go shopping without having a meltdown, or pee without having kids screaming at the door, or have a clean house for an entire day...but then I have to remind myself that there will come a time when I long for these insane days, and I force myself to again cherish these moments, no matter how crazy they make me now. I am grateful to be the mother of these precious children. I just hope I can be the mother they deserve. I know I have a long way to go...

2011-05-09T22:08:00.000-07:00

Thanks to my awesome friend Stacy for snapping a few shots of my new little man. She got some really cute ones...

How i love these goobers!

Yup...he's a keeper. And he's all mine. :) (And Justin's, of course!)

The Story

2011-04-17T22:41:00.000-07:00

My dear sister, Sister Alisha Speakman,

Hiya Sis! So, here he is. Your new little nephew!!! :) I don't know if dad or anyone sent you pics of him yet, so here are a few. He's a keeper, huh? :) He has already changed so much, its crazy. I wish I had time to go into detail about everything, and hopefully someday soon I will get it all written down and send a copy your way, but for now here is the quicky version. I was supposed to be induced Tuesday night, but when we got to the hospital all the beds were full so we got sent home. :( (Apparently they had left a message on Justin's phone, but we didn't get it before heading down there.) Bummer. But I had been praying and praying to go into labor my own, cause I just knew the labor would be so much easier and go more smoothly if I went on my own, so I thought maybe this was an answer to prayers in a way. (I was only wanting to be induced cause Aunt Angie was only here for a limited time and I wanted to take advantage of her being here after the baby was born as much as possible.) So Wednesday morning my doc found out I hadn't been admitted and called me to come in and strip my membranes again, (thank gooodness! Another answer to prayers. :) ) and three hours later I started having contractions. Wahoo! :) The kids and I met Justin and Angie and Swanson at Gecko Grill for lunch, then Justin and the kids and I just headed home and watched Tangled (LOVE that movie!). I put Bella down for a nap, did some cleaning, the usual stuff., just waiting for the contractions to get stronger and closer together. By 6:00 Wed night they were coming faster and harder and every 5 min apart, so we said goodbye to the kiddos, loaded up and headed to the hospital. I was so excited, and SO grateful I was going in on my own. Not only could they not turn me away, but I had the most peaceful feeling and was so relaxed and just knew everything was going to work out great. My little man was on his way! :) So by the time I got all checked in and into a room and got the epidural and all that it was about 8:30. I asked for my doc to break my water cause I knew that as soon as she did the baby would be here, and I was right! My doc got there about 9:40, broke my water, and I went from a 5-6 to a 10 in 20 minutes! I started pushing at 10:10, and two pushes later he was out! No ripping or tearing, (another blessing!) and the first thing I noticed about this little guy was his nice pudgy rolls and deep, throaty cry. I was already in love. 9 lb, 1 oz!! 21 in long. My biggest baby by far! He had tons of dark hair and he came out with a little mohawk! He was such a chubby little thing, with a cute double chin and everything. It was such an easy delivery, and I was really alert and aware of everything going on, unlike Braxton's birth. I tell ya, the Lord sure does hear and answer our prayers. I just KNEW that if I could go into labor myself, it would be alot easier delivery and that all would go well. I am so grateful the Lord helped that happen. And he is such a beautiful little angel baby, Alisha. I can't wait for you to meet him! He has been such a good baby so far, which I am SSSOOOOOOOO grateful for. :) I don't think I could do this if he were fussy or a bad sleeper. Again, the Lord knew I needed a good baby to keep my sanity. He had a hard day today, so I am hoping it was just a one day thing and he will be happy again tomorrow. He usually is happy all the time and only cries when he is hungry, and he smiles so much!! I love him so much already. Its amazing hpw quickly that complete, all encompassing love comes. What a sweet boy he is.

We were going back and forth between names. We couldn't decide between Brody and Brock, then all of a sudden we switched to Caleb or Conrad...it was such a hard decision!! A name is a big deal, ya know?? :) We had actually decided on Caleb the last night in the hospital, and then I tried calling him that all night and it just didn't. Finally, with the help of some awesome nurses, :) I chose to go with Conrad, and I'm glad I did. It fits him. Different and quircky, but strong and bold. Justin loves it, and calls the boys B-rax and C-rad!! He he he. Conrad Peter Caruso, Peter being after Justin's father.

The kids are doing pretty good with him. They love to hug and hold him, but of course Bella is having a hard time sharing me, especially when its time to feed Conrad or when she just wakes up in the morn or after a nap. Some days are harder than others, but for the most part, because he has been such a good baby, things are going pretty good. I am having a really hard time with breastfeeding right now due to multiple problems and issues going on, and that is causing alot of stress and pain for me, but thats another long story. I had a blessing and done alot of praying and the fam has helped out ALOT, which has been a lifesaver. I don't know how people do this without family nearby, I tell ya. They are so good to us. So hopefully the problems that I am having will be resolved soon and I can feel like myself again. Other than that though, things are good. I sure love ya and think about you alot. Its great to hear how you are doing and I can't wait to see pics of this new jungle wilderness you are livin in. :) You are amazing and wondeful. All my love,

Your sis

My little Man

The kids with their new little brother. B-rax was so excited to hold him!

Brand new baby boy

My AWESOME doc

True love

Waiting for the action to begin

CONRAD PETER CARUSO

2011-04-08T20:52:00.000-07:00

He is here!! Our beautiful baby boy arrived healthy and safe.

We are smitten with this little guy. He is perfect in every way.

One day old. My little chunky monkey!

One week old. They grow so quickly...

This kid smiles so much, I swear he already knows how! He is always happy and content and pretty much only cries when he is hungry. He is my little angel baby! (The Lord knew I needed one after my first two crazy kiddos!!)

Check back soon for the whole story! (If your interested... :) )

2011-04-05T13:48:00.000-07:00

CONRAD PETER CARUSO

Born Wednesday March 30th, 10:15 pm

9 lb 1 oz, 21 in

Labor and delivery was wonderful! (As wonderful as can be, anyways :) )

He is beautiful and we are already so in love!

Pics coming soon

Still here...

2011-03-27T21:13:00.000-07:00

Today is my due date. And I'm still here.... Ugh...

Life as I Know It

2011-03-13T21:30:00.000-07:00

Today Brax and Justin took the first swim of the year!! Only in Arizona can you go swimming in March, right? The water was still COLD, but these two are water babies and loved it. Braxton was so excited to get in with Daddy. I love watching my boys play together and have a good time.

B-rax and Bella are growing so fast. Bella is the most adorable little thing. I am so grateful for her. She is my cuddlebug and just loves to be held and cuddle and kiss. She has this thing right now for ears. Yes, EARS. Every time I hold her she has to be holding onto one of my ears! Its like a comfort thing to her. I don't know if its because they are soft and squishy and close to the face or what, but she just loves holding/feeling my ears, and anyone else's ears who is holding her at the time. She is a fireball and just goes goes goes all day, but no matter what she is doing she always comes to find me before too long and wants to have a hug or cuddle for a sec before she is off again. I love it, but I know she is going to have a hard adjustment when this little guy comes. Thankfully she is FINALLY sleeping better though the night after much work to get her there. Not sleeping ALL night without crying, but doing much better than she was, and I don't have to stay there in the room with her while she falls asleep anymore. Its been WONDERFUL and I am so grateful I was able to get her here before this baby keeps me up all night again. She is such a princess though and just loves anything girly. Shoes (ESPECIALLY shoes) purses, make-up, jewelry, clothes, hair stuff...you name it and if its girly she loves it. I couldn't love her more.

Braxton is completely potty trained!! Wahoo!! He did so great and hasn't even had a single accident since he started peeing in the toilet. I am so proud of him. He is such a smart kid and he amazes me every day with the things he says and does. However, he is at a hard stage right now. He is such a sweet boy, so its so hard to see him going through this, but he just has started talking so sassy. He has started saying words that he knows are wrong (just little words like stupid and butt and shut up) but I can't get him to stop saying them. I have tried time-out and taking away toys and sassy spray (vinegar diluted with water) but so far nothing has worked. My next step is tabasco sauce or soap, and I am so sad I have to resort to that. I guess its normal though for every kid to go through this stage. I remember mom and dad washing my and my siblings mouths with soap many times, so I can't say its mean or cruel, but I just hate that I have to do it. And not just for saying naughty words, but for the way he talks to me. Yelling and demanding and back-talking and telling us "no." Its hard to imagine him doing that. I hate it. Its so hard to watch and listen to when you know he is really not like that, that he is a sweet kid who can just melt my heart when he wants to. I am hoping it won't last too long and this phase will pass quickly.

Its fun to watch him and Bella play together though. Of course sometimes they can't help but tease eachother, but alot of times they are the best of friends and it makes me so happy to watch. Braxton loves playing with her and will actually ask her to come play with him. And the first thing Bella asks for in the morning when she wakes up is Braxton. As soon as she sees him she just runs to him and gives him the biggest hug. I LOVE IT. He of course doesnt always want to accept it from her, but there is nothing better than to see your children love eachother and get along so well. Those moment are the ones that become engrained in my head and will last forever as a cherished and loved memory.

My sweet kiddos - The Loves of my life!! (And Justin too, of course. :) )

9 Months!

2011-03-13T21:27:00.000-07:00

Two more weeks to go!!! So close, yet SO FAR....

Wonderful

2011-02-27T19:43:00.000-08:00

Today was a wonderful day. No the weather wasn't perfect. No, I didn't get a lot done. My house isn't perfectly clean. I didn't get to take a nap. My kitchen floor is ridiculous because of all the mud tracked in from last night's rain storm. Me feet and back ache....

But my children were best friends today. All day.

Today was a wonderful day.

Speakman Family Cabin Trip 2011

2011-02-20T20:00:00.000-08:00

All my wonderful family + large, spacious, beautiful cabin in Pine (rented) + love, laughter, and fun = Heaven on Earth!

Mom with guitar + Dad with saw = Awesome music!

Braxton + Snow = PURE JOY!!

Sled + snow = Crazy, daring brothers

Braxton + Grandpa = tickles, laughter and Fun

(this was just after they went sledding down the hill together. Look at his face. Could a kid be any happier? I love him!)

Bella + snow = COLD

Justin + snow = One happy man! (shorts and all!)

Children + snow = Snowman!!! (With help from mom, of course)

Kind uncles + tired kids = sled rides!!

Sum total= Wonderful, memorable weekend!

8 Months

2011-02-06T19:52:00.000-08:00

Here I am in all my glory...swollen, tired and large. Oh its fun being pregnant. :)

2011-01-27T19:40:00.001-08:00

Braxton: "Where were you Mommy?"

Me: "I was in the bathroom."

Braxton: "You went potty in the toilet?"

Me: "Yup."

Braxton: "Good job mommy! I'm so proud of you!"

(Can you tell we are potty training? :) )

(Loui is licking Braxton's leg)

Braxton: "Stop it Loui! I'm not food!"

New Years Eve and Cousin Fun

2011-01-16T20:10:00.000-08:00

The week after Christmas we had a wonderful present from some of our cousins who live in Utah. They came down for a week to play with us and celebrate Christmas and the New Year with my Speakman family! It was so great seeing them again and getting to know their cute little babies and just being around them.

Some of the fun stuff we did while they were here: Going out to the desert and playing with their "toys!" (Quads and dirt bikes.) It was FREEZING cold that week for us here in Arizona (high in the 40s!), and I had to actually go out and by my kids winter clothes for our little excursion! We had a blast though.

Bella all bundled up for the cold. We were taking a break from the CRAZY wind and enjoying the warmth of the car.

B-rax got to go out for a long ride on the quads with Jono and the gang. He had a BLAST and talked about it for days afterwards. He is enjoying a nice big donut and dethawing in the car with us.

This is by far the coolest toy they had, and definitely B-rax's favorite. :) A mini dirt bike with training wheels!!! Cousin Brian bought two of these for his cute twin girls for Christmas, and was nice enough to let Braxton ride it a few times. He quickly became addicted and never wanted to get off, of course. Brian added a rope on back to stop the bike and prevent and mishaps, and fixed the gas so it could only go so fast. It was so fun watching B-rax enjoy it!

Bella with Cousin Neil on a quad! She was so excited to finally have a turn!

Posing for a pic before another ride...

We enjoyed just chillin' with them all wherever we were, but it was fun to let the little kids play out on our carport with their little mini toys.

Bella pushing little Zoey on her little quad. So cute!

You gotta love this girl...

Brian and Tina's girls turned 2 while here! We had a little party for them to wish them a happy birthday.

New Years Eve was a blast. We had a HUGE party at the church house with lots of family and friends, with our amazing cousins Neil and Ben D.J.-ing for us the whole night. Here we were having a dance off between two of the youngsters there, and B-rax just HAD to get up and join in.

Games and Fun

Bella was a champ at the Limbo :)

Happy New Year!!

The kids made it until about 11:00, then both started to get that "glazed" look in their eyes so we took off to go home and put them to bed. Justin pooped out on me just before midnight, but I was a champ and stayed up (barely) to see the ball drop and hear the fireworks go off. Another year, come and gone. 2010 was wonderful. Can't wait to see what the new year brings!!

Milestones

2011-01-14T13:00:00.000-08:00

Braxton has been saying really cute/funny things lately. I love watching him explore and discover the world around him. Here are some of my favorites:

"Mom, can I have crackers and fishies?"

"Sure Braxton." (I grab a bag and pour the crackers and fishies into the bag for him.)

"Good job mommy!"

(Sitting in bathtub and is petting his leg, then kisses it.)

"I love you my sweet leg!"

Braxton and Bella have little "conversations" all the time and I love listening to them, especially since half of Bella's words are still unintelligible. We were in the car and they were "talking" and Bella said something to him and Braxton scrunched up his face, tapped his chin and said, "What? 'Shwumpee?' Hmmmm....now what does THAT mean?" :)

(WHile we were swinging outside)

"Mommy, look a butterfly! ... Wow...Its so beautiful!"

We reached a milestone today. I FIIINNNNAALLLYY got Braxton to poop in the toilet!!! WAHOO!! He has been peeing for awhile but was deathly afraid to poop for some unknown reason, UNTIL TODAY! Is is sad when a mother gets so excited over her child's bowel movement? Well, so be it. Today I am one happy woman. :)

Last Sunday was Bella's first day in nursery, and Braxton's first day in primary! Braxton had a little bit of a hard time going into the primary room at first and sitting with his class, but after about 10 mins he warmed up and finally went and sat down. I was so grateful. For some reason I was just so emotional that day, and I could barely keep the tears at bay when Braxton started getting a little emotional about going in there by himself. I don't know what I would have done if he refused to go, since I still had Bella squirming in my arms and Justin was teaching his class. THEN I went and took Bella to nursery, and thats when I lost it. :( I don't even know why!! She was so excited (and heaven knows I had been looking forward to this day for MONTHS!!!) to go in and wasn't even crying, but I just couldn't stop the tears this time. It was so embarrassing! I said goodbye to her and had to go to the bathroom and have a good cry for a few minutes. Sad, isn't it? A grown woman. Sheesh. i'm such a baby. She ended up doing well the first hour, but I guess lost it the second hour and they had to bring her to me in Young Women's cause she was crying so much. I of course was teaching though, so they had to take her screaming out of the room again to go find Justin. It was a hard day. I was grateful when church was over and I could take my kids home and hold them and kiss them and love them all I wanted. I'm such a softie.

Merry Christmas 2010

2010-12-28T20:21:00.000-08:00

I can't believe its the new year and the holidays are over! Boy they sure go by fast. I know they are going to, but it still surprises me every year just how quickly it goes.

We had a wonderful Christmas. It was really chill and relaxing and Justin and I enjoyed partaking of the magic through our sweet children. Here they are in their little Christmas outfits, curtesy of Aunt Patti!

I didn't get too many good pics of the kids Christmas morning. They were too busy opening presents and enjoying their breakfast of chocolate and more chocolate to stop and say "cheese!" :)

Christmas Morning

The kids got some fun little toys to play with and lots of new games to keep them busy and give them something different to do. They played ALL DAY with their new toys and didn't even want to leave the house cause they would miss their new toys!

(The only "good" pic I got!)

B-rax got his first bike!!! He LOVES it and would ride it all day every day if he could. Santa did good this year! :)

After presents we went out for breakfast. SO nice not having to cook Christmas morning! :) I think that will be a tradition we will stick with. The highlight of the day for me was being able to Skype with my sweet sister Alisha who is on her mission in the Bahamas currently. It was so nice to be able to see her and talk to her face to face, so to speak. She is so wonderful. We all went over to my parents house, the whole fam, and were able to be there to talk to her. She comes home this Sept! Already counting down! :)

Merry Christmas! Hope yours was merry and bright!

6 Months!!

2010-12-28T20:17:00.000-08:00

I've popped!

Braxton is THREE!!!!

2010-12-12T19:39:00.000-08:00

THE BIRTHDAY BOY!!!

THE PINATA!!!

(Some of) THE FAMILY AND FRIENDS!!!

THE CAKE!!!

THE PRESENTS!!!

I hope your birthday was all you had hoped it would be my son! For months you could talk about nothing else, and when asked what you wanted to get all you would say is "You buy me trains for my birthday!" (Hence the ecstatic face when your new train was opened!) You are such a sweet, crazy kid and I love ya more than you could possibly know! You'll always be my baby!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!! :)

Thanksgiving 2010

2010-12-12T19:31:00.000-08:00

Thanksgiving was a different experience for us this year. It was the first year we not only had it solely with Justin's family, but at our home. (Much more stressful than I imagined! Thank you Mom for all your help!!) Justin's sweet mother flew over from New York to be with us and his sister came down from Dewey, and we had a friend from Justin's work with us as well who didn't have any family. A much smaller group than I am typically used to, but all in all we had a wonderful day and enjoyed being together as family and enjoying good food and remembering all we are thankful for. Braxton LOVED playing with his cousins that he doesn't get to see too often and cried when they left. It was so nice having "Grandma Bebe" here with us for a week and enjoying her company. The kids took to her and her little dog "Lola" so quickly and asked for her all day after she flew home. It was wonderful to be able to watch them get to know her better and build a relationship with their grandma.

5 months!!

2010-11-14T20:11:00.001-08:00

Me and Baby BOY!! 5 months. I can't believe I'm already halfway there!

Halloween 2010

2010-11-14T19:53:00.000-08:00

We had a fun Halloween Eve this year, partying with our ward family at a carnival and trunk-or-treat. Braxton asked me every day for two weeks after we bought his costume if it was time to go to the Halloween party yet, and finally the time came!! He and Bella had a ball and Justin and I loved watching their joy throughout the night. Holidays definitely change as you grow into an adult and sometimes lose some of their magic, but I am so grateful children can light that spark again and allow you to live the magic once again.

The Beautiful Bella as Tinkerbell. She started dancing and flitting about just like a real fairy as soon as I donned her costume and literally didn't stop until it was time for bed later that night. She was so much fun to watch!

B-rax, giving me his "cheese" face. He didn't like his mask, but he still made a handsome Batman in suite and cape. Ready for the party!!

Face (hand) painting. He hates people touching his face. Think he gets that from me...

Hopscotch. I loved all the booths cause no matter what it was, they got candy or prizes just for trying.

Definitely Bella's favorite booth of the night (basketball toss). As soon as I put her down, no matter where we were, she would start dancing right back to this one. I was so worn out by the end of the night just from chasing after her!

Daddy and Bella, giving Momma a break for a minute!

Schnepf Farms

2010-10-25T15:38:00.000-07:00

We went on a fun family outing to Schnepf Farms and had a grand time!

The kids LOVED the playground and the carasoul... Braxton STILL talks about when we went to the "zoo" (he calls it) and rode the "care-a-self" and petted the animals and rode the airplanes!

The face of pure joy...

How can you not want to just kiss that face over and over? I do...all day... :)

The train ride was fun. Braxton waited a long time to be able to ride it!

The pygmy goats were cute but STINKY!!!

And this kid wanted to ride the airplanes over and over... he would have all night if we let him.

We had a wonderful time. The weather was great and it was nice just being together as a family and enjoying the fall festivities!!

HAPPY FALL!!!

My Kiddos...

2010-10-25T15:31:00.000-07:00

They don't come any cuter than this...

Tender Mercies

2010-09-26T15:43:00.000-07:00

So good news! I had an ultrasound to find out just how far along I am, and it turns out I am actually 4 weeks further along than I thought! I am officially 14 weeks today. That means I only have about another month of being sick, rather than two. Wahoo! That was a HUGE blessing. There is light at the end of the tunnel! Thank goodness for the Lord's tender mercies.

Here are some picture updates of the chillins. Braxton and Bella love to just turn on their kids sing-along music and dance around the livingroom or Braxton's room.

Bella loves making little crawl spaces for herself and sitting in little holes just big enough for her. It makes me laugh. She is so sweet.

MY PRETTY GIRL!!

Here is what happens when Braxton "helps" me make bread. At least the mess is worth the time that it keeps him occupied!

I have such a blessed life. Last night at the relief society broadcast, Sis. Allred told a story of a couple who took their two small children on a 27 hr ride to the temple to be sealed together as a family. On the way back, both children caught cold and died, and the parents returned home empty handed, but with hope and gratitude in their hearts for making it to the temple to be sealed as an eternal family. That story has been replaying in my head over and over since I heard it yesterday. I just don't understand why some people are given so much and blessed beyond what they deserve, while other wonderful, amazing, strong individuals are given such hard trials and live with so little. I will never understand it until perhaps the next life, but I don't take what I have for granted. I thank my Father every day for the life I live, my husband, my home, my parents and siblings, and most of all my two beautiful children. They are my greatest blessings, the sweetest "tender mercies" the Lord has given me, and I live every day for them. I hope and pray I can be the mother they deserve.

It's Been Awhile...

2010-09-05T20:43:00.000-07:00

Hello Blog.

It's been awhile.

I feel horrible its been so long since I have updated you on our lives, but to tell you the truth, I do have a pretty good excuse. For the past six weeks I have been puking and eating nonstop even though no food ever sounds or tastes good and all I want to do is sleep all day. My poor children have watched way too much t.v. and gotten into way too much trouble while I lay helpless and pathetic on the couch most of each day. I do take them out every now and then, on good days, when I'm feeling ok and not throwing up so much. I remember it being this bad with Braxton, but Bella was a little easier on my body I think. I guess there was another little spirit in heaven who just couldn't wait any longer. So whether we are ready or not (I was definitely leaning towards the NOT for the first many weeks after I found out), here they come! It was a surprise and took awhile for me to adjust and accept the fact that we will have three young chillins under the age of 4, but the Lord has had his hand in this and has let me know more than once that this is His will and this is what I am supposed to be doing with my life right now. I just can't wait for these first four months to be over. Eight weeks down, about nine more to go....*grrrooooaaaaann*. Pray for me.

Braxton is turning three in a couple months, and every time I remember that it surprises me. I think he should be turning 4, or 10. He is such a big boy and amazes me every day with how smart he is and how much he is learning about the world. Don't get me wrong, he is definitely still a little boy and acts like it plenty of the time, but its so hard to believe he has only been in my life for less than three years. He loves playing the role of "big brother" with Bella, for better or worse sometimes. He can be so sweet and loving to her one second, then such a tease and pest to her the next. I feel like a broken record sometimes. "Braxton, be soft to your sister. Braxton, be soft. That wasn't soft. Be ssssooooofftt. Braxton!! BE SOFT!" :) Thankfully she is tough and takes it all in good stride and still loves him to death no matter what. He is a wonderful helper to me with running little errands I need done around the house, and loves being a part of anything and everything I am doing. I love how when he likes something, he will say "Ya! I love that! Its my favorite!" :) Its so cute. I just want to eat him every time he says it. Unfortunately, I think he is pretty much done taking naps. At 2 1/2!! I feel jipped. :( I know he is still tired and needs a nap, but he is just so stinkin' stubborn, and it just turns into a two hour fight with him and its not worth it. At least he goes to bed earlier and easier at nights now! Wahoo! With every gray cloud there is a silver lining... :)

Bella is my little love bug. She is so sweet and kisses and hugs and loves on me all day long. I can't get enough of it. I know some day I am going to look back and these days and long for them again, when my children actually ENJOY cuddling and kissing me. They won't last forever, so I am taking all I can and loving every second. She gives kisses to anyone and everyone, asked for or not. She will do anything I ask with a smile on her face and then is so proud of herself when she is done. I can't believe how much she is talking already, too! I can understand a large majority of what she says, and her words are getting more pronounced and her vocabulary larger every day. She is a pure joy to me and Justin. My trial with her right now is getting her to sleep through the night. The "cry it out" thing and I just don't get along too well, so I am tryin to find some other way. Any suggestions?

Justin has been a wonderful help to me these last many weeks while I have been sick. He surprised me when I told him we were going to have another baby, saying "well, at least we'll get them all here quicker!" This is a huge relief and blessing, seeing as how he thought we would be done with one! He works so hard for us every day, then comes home to a messy house and on bad days not even a dinner, and takes it all in stride and does his best to help. He loves our children more than anything in this world and works so hard to give them the life he wishes for them. I am grateful for him and all he does for our family. He is sweet man and I love him.

Well, I am about to keel over and start snoring right here on this keyboard, so I think its off to bed with me.

Until next time. "Oravwa!"

Summer Rain

2010-08-22T21:07:00.000-07:00

One of the best things about Summer is the Monsoons - ya gotta love warm summer rain storms!! We love playing in it any chance we get!!

(There was a momentary lapse in the rain, hence the hose came out to act as proxy for a moment...)

5 Yrs and Counting...

2010-08-04T14:21:00.000-07:00

Happy Anniversary my Love! We made it to 5 years!! There have been great times, hard times, sad times, joyous times, funny times, happy times, rough times...but without a doubt these past five years have been the best years of my life.

We both have grown so much just in these few short years, and I am so impressed by you and how you constantly are bettering yourself for me and our children. I love you more every day and am grateful for all you are and all you do for our family. You are my everything!

Here are 5 of some of my most favorite memories of you in our life together:

1) Looking at you from across the alter in the temple and knowing you were going to be mine...Forever!!

2) Every time we go to the beach - You enjoy it with childlike innocence and it makes me so happy to watch you!

3) Our Honeymoon - 'nuff said! ;)

4) Our frist trip back to New York for Christmas, just after we were married and before we had children. It was so fun seeing you at "home" and watching you with your mom. It was fun and relaxing and I was so sad when it was time to leave.

5) The morning Braxton was born. It was the only time I have ever seen you cry. I will never forget it.

I can't wait to see what our future holds and look forward to continuing on this wonderful journey with you. I sure love ya!

Motherhood: An Eternal Partnership with God

2010-07-05T14:47:00.000-07:00

Happy 4th of July!

2010-07-04T21:49:00.000-07:00

Bella's 1st Birthday!

2010-07-04T21:02:00.000-07:00

My sweetest Bella,

You turned 1 yesterday, and it was such a fun and memorable day. I kept thinking all day long about how only one year ago I was laying in a hospital bed, anticipating your arrival and wondering what you would be like. That was such a sweet day for me, brimming with tender, loving emotions. I felt such peace as I lay there waiting for you. Everything went so smoothly, your arrival almost perfect in every way, so reflective of your character and who you are. You came out tight fisted and crying, angry at being yanked from your comfortable home. I remember seeing your dark curly hair, your pink chubby body and being giddy with happiness. It always surprises me how much love a mother can feel for her child at that first moment of meeting. I cradled you close to my breast and sang to you and just stared at your perfect face probably for hours. How can someone so imperfect create such a perfect miracle? You are mine, and always will be.

I look at you now, a whole year old, and I can't help but smile in adoration. My love grows for you every day. You are my little love bug! You love smooching me, and I mean smoooooching, and I can't get enough of it. Your hugs fill me with warm bubbles of joy. I love it when I pick you up after you wake up from a nap and you lay your head down on my shoulder and pat my back, like "thanks mom. I knew I could count on you. I missed you too." Or when you think you did something funny, you open your mouth wide and crinkle your nose and give the cutest little laugh. You love to sing and dance, to play with your brother, to cuddle and hug, and you love hugging and laying all over Marley and Loui. I don't think they mind too much, either. You are already trying to talk, saying "momma" and "daddy," and even though I can't understand too many other of your words yet, you are excellent at communicating your wants through your body language and facial expressions and your ever famous pointing finger. You are my girly girl, through and through! You love trying on shoes already, playing with momma's brushes as you comb your hair, and its so funny to watch you try and dress yourself! You make us all so happy, and we are truly blessed to have such a beautiful and wonderful daughter and sister in our lives. I look forward to every day with you and can't wait to see what you have in store for us tomorrow.

I love you my Bella Rose! Happy Birthday!

The beautiful Birthday Girl

Some of the Friends and Family

If you can't get the face, ya gotta get the toes!

The cake!

The presents!

It was a wonderful day! Thank you to all who made it such!

Camping on the Beach - June 2010

2010-06-20T20:23:00.000-07:00

We took our annual trip a couple a weeks ago and went camping on the beach again. It was wonderful! We normally go up above Santa Barbara, but decided to try a place lower this year near San Diego, and I am so glad we did! Not only was it a shorter drive (thank goodness! 6 hours of screaming Bella was just about all we all could handle!) but it was warmer. We loved it and had so much fun. We got there Monday night, set up camp and ate dinner, then went to bed. Tuesday through Thursday we just relaxed and spent most of every day on the beach. Braxton and Bella were both afraid of the waves (might have had something to do with the fact that B-rax was knocked over by a big one Tuesday morn when we went down before breakfast to take a look - fully clothed and all) so they spent most of their time in the sand. It was heaven to them. Bella ate a healthy dose of it as well, but a little sand never hurt anyone, right? Thats what I had to keep telling myself... Here are some pics of the first few days.

Nathan and Becca came with us, along with Landon, our cousin, and Robert, Becca's younger bro. It was so nice having family to spend time with and to enjoy the fun. Above is Nathan and a very buried Robert. It took some time to get him out of that one!

B-rax couldn't be left out, of course. This kid was so fun to watch. He made friends with every child on the beach and would have spent all day every day playing in the sand.

Daddy and son, enjoying the waves.

Little Miss Princess

I love this picture. I think it captures his personality, as well as his spirit. He is throwing sand into the ocean, or trying to. He is such an adventurer and loves playing and exploring and being apart of everything.

His favorite sand tool - his cousin Audin's shovel. Audin was a good sport about it and let him play with it alot.

Wednesday we took a trip down to the pier and walked along it, then played on the swings on the public beach for awhile. The kids loved that! It was so beautiful there.

At the campsite at night. The kids all love aunt Becca!!

Awwwww....kissing cousins!!

I love this picture of Bella!! She is growing up so fast... My little lady.

By the third day we got B-rax to go into the waves, as long as daddy or mommy was holding him or his hand. He loved it after that!

Friday morning we took a stroll to the look out to see our beach one more time and say goodbye. We have some wonderful memories there!

Then, off to Sea World!! We were there from about 11:00 to 5:00, spent most of the time in the children's play land, Sesame Street Bay of Play, then packed up and headed home. It was a long week and a long day, but we had so much fun and made lots of good memories.

Until next year!!

Memorial Day 2010

2010-06-15T15:09:00.000-07:00

I am grateful for many things. To name a few, a country where I can say what I want and when I want without being afraid of penalty. Where I can worship freely. Get an education. Live in comfort, with all my needs met. Raise a family. And for all the men and women who have fought for that right, who have stood for freedom, given their lives for it, and continue to do so.

THANK YOU. Your sacrifice is not in vain, and is not unnoticed. Freedom isn't free. Thank you for paying the price.

I'm also grateful for a husband who can grill like no one's bin'ess!

YUM!YUM!

Aunt Angie

2010-06-15T14:54:00.000-07:00

Angie, Justin's aunt, came to stay with us for 10 days to be here when her son, Landon, got home from his mission. It was so wonderful having her here! (And I'm not just saying that cause you read this, Angie! :) ) I loved the company (not to mention the help around the house and with the kids!!) and the kids both took to her so quickly and always wanted her to hold them and play with them. B-rax liked to help her in the kitchen, but Angie had to teach him, "I'm the chef!" cause he wanted to help a little too much sometimes! I know Justin enjoyed having her here too. She is one of the few people who really knows and understands him, and she always has good advice for whatever is happening in our lives at the moment. It was a sad day when she left!

"Im the chef!!"

We love you Angie and can't wait for you to stay with us again!

Harvest Time

2010-05-30T20:40:00.000-07:00

Look at those sweet, juicy, succulent peaches... Mmmmmm....

And they taste even better than they look.

Kiddos May '10

2010-05-10T15:53:00.000-07:00

Braxton got an owie. It actually happened a few months ago, and all that's left is a lovely scar. He refused to let me put anything on it, so now he will have a testament of his stubbornness on his face the rest of his days. It was weird how it happened. We were having a family party for my Mother's birthday just a few days before Alisha left on her mission, and some of us were standing around a fire chatting. Not even close to the fire, like 5 feet away too. Braxton runs over, throws his arms around my legs and looks up at me to beg for some water, when suddenly a little ember shoots out of the fire and arcs across the open air to plop right down on his tender little face. Very weird. I am just grateful it didn't land another inch higher in his eye.

This is his "I have said 'cheese' three times now mom, just take the darn picture!" face. :)

Braxton is talking pretty much in full sentences now. He loves telling us stories about his day and some cool thing he saw. He is starting to really become a daddy's boy (it's about time!) and can't wait for him to get home every night so he can run to him and throw his arms around his neck. Justin couldn't be happier about that. He has been waiting a long time to have a little buddy to hang out with! Braxton is a social nut and any kid he sees is immediately his friend. He can't get enough of the outdoors, swimming, and ice cream or chocolate (still his momma's boy in that regard!)

I can't get him to keep his shoes on. No matter where we are or go, within minutes he had his shoes off and is running with the wind again. May change once he realizes the Arizona ground is a frying pan in the summer, but for now I can't help but let him get away with it. He is a free spirit. Hey, they are only young once, right?

Bella gets more sweet and cuddly every day, though she definitely already has an attitude, and she lets us know it! She started taking steps a few weeks ago, and mastered it quickly. It was neat to watch how persistent she was. She never gave up or resorted back to crawling once she started taking a few steps. She would fall over and get right back up and try it again, even if she was frustrated or crying. It makes me happy to watch her plump little body waddling around everywhere. I just want to gobble her up.

She loves climbing on anything and everything. I am amazed at some of the things she gets on top of. And I may be a horrible mother for it, but sometimes I allow her to climb on things I probably shouldn't because I can't wait to see that triumphant smile she flashes when she accomplishes her goal. She is a go-getter and life is going to be a ride with this one.

Bella finally has a tooth! Her first bottom one broke through about 2 weeks ago. She won't even touch baby food anymore and insists on having only "grown up" food, which sometimes is hard with only her one tooth. She makes it work though and always rewards me with her giant gummy smile that plays a magical chord in my heart. She LOVES cheese, cheese, and more cheese, and of course frozen yogurt. Wouldn't be my child if she didn't. :)

Dusting

2010-04-30T14:53:00.000-07:00

Saw this on a cousin's blog, and loved it. All I have to say is "Amen!"

Remember...a layer of dust protects the wood beneath it.

'A house becomes a homewhen you can write 'I love you' on the furniture.'

I used to spend at least 8 hours every weekend making sure things were just perfect - 'in case someone came over. Finally I realized one day that no-one came over; they were all out living life and having fun!!!!!!!

NOW, when people visit, I don't have to explain the'condition' of my home.

They are more interested in hearing about the things I've been doing while I was away living life and having fun.....

If you haven't figured this out yet, please heed this advice.

Life is short. Enjoy it!
Dust if you must ...
but wouldn't it be better to paint a picture or write a letter, bake cookies or a cakeand lick the spoon or plant a seed, ponder the difference between want and need?

Dust if you must, but there's not much time . . . .
with Chocolate to eat, rivers to swim and mountains to climb, music, to hear and books to read, friends to cherish and life to lead.

Dust if you must,
but the world's out there with the sun in your eyes, the wind in your hair,a flutter of snow, a shower of rain. This day will not come around again.

Dust if you must ,

but bear in mind, old age will come and it's not kind. . .

And when you go - and go you must - you, yourself will make more dust!

It's not what you gather, but what you scatter that tells what kind of life you have lived.

First Swim '10

2010-04-30T14:37:00.000-07:00

This was about a month ago. B-rax LOVES going swimming with his Daddy! Justin has been jumping in the pool for awhile now (Crazy kid!) but it was finally warm enough for Braxton to join him.

The dogs wanted in on the action! Loui can't swim though and Marley is too chicken to try. He did fall in once though and swam out just fine...but won't get close again since then. He is a big boob.

"I like to move it move it!"

2010-04-25T21:36:00.000-07:00

I find her in the oddest places...

And always with a smile on her beautiful face!

Easter 2010

2010-04-25T21:26:00.000-07:00

We had a sweet n' simple Easter. B-rax loved his Thomas train and new Thomas DVD and of course ate way too much candy. I love that I can still take part in the magic of the holidays through my children. There is nothing like the joy of a child!

"Wake up sleepyhead! Its Easter!!

Bella in her Easter dress!

Lyn Rae Ward Easter Egg Hunt '10

2010-04-25T21:15:00.000-07:00

Heaven on Earth

2010-04-09T15:16:00.000-07:00

I am sitting on a blue squeaky swing,

A beautiful babbling baby wiggling in my arms.

I sway steadily back and forth,

Matching the rhythm of the surrounding trees

As they dance wildly with the wind.

I close my eyes and feel the cool air

As it rushes over my skin.

The sweet scent of Orange Blossoms is thick and heavy.

It washes over me and makes my mouth water

With its tantalizing aroma.

I inhale again, just to see if I can really taste it this time.

Almost.

A sparrow whistles a happy tune,

And another joins in with twittling harmony.

A chorus of birds begin to serenade me

With their chirps and hums and peeps and whistles.

Nature's Masterpiece.

I hear my favorite word, "Mamma,"

And turn to see my brown-haired boy,

As he demonstrates his latest trick.

A fantastic smile, hair whipping in the wind,

Barefoot, dirt smudged from head to toe,

And blissfully happy.

I can't help but smile back in complete

Adoration.

The pearly pink sky is changing.

Firy red and orange set the horizon ablaze

As the setting sun desperately throws

Its last rays of light across the sky,

Reluctant to leave this magnificent day.

My drooling cherub squirms around

And climbs her way up my lap.

Twinkling emerald eyes stare back at me

With absolute, beautiful innocence.

A squeal of glee, chubby arms encircle my neck,

And a path of never-ending love is seared into my heart.

This is Heaven on Earth.

Bulldog Canyon

2010-04-04T20:51:00.000-07:00

We took a little trip out to Bulldog Canyon a couple weeks ago before Alisha left on her mission. The weather was B-E-A-Utiful, the food was awesome, the company couldn't be beat. Another great memory to cherish.

Dad shooting off the potato gun. Can't go out to the desert without the potato gun!

Watching the taters FLLYYYY

Alisha, Nathan and Becca's brother waiting to catch a flying tater

Food. Mmmmm, mmmmm, Gooooood.

I love happy babies!

Roasting the wieners on a stick. The best way

Hyrum and B-rax sittin' by the fire

The kids got to go on a great Easter egg hunt!! Braxton's favorite part of the night

It wouldn't be a camp fire if mom weren't playing her guitar and singing her heavenly songs. Dad playing the saw was a special treat. Yes, the saw. Like one you cut wood with. Like I said, its a special treat.

I love my family!! Thanks for the memory!

Speakman Family Pics '10

2010-03-29T23:29:00.000-07:00

The whole Speakman Clan...

Daniel and Brookie, Kaylee, McKay and Heather Speakman

Jaron and Aileen, Hyrum and Wyatt Speakman

Justin and Sarah, Braxton and Bella Caruso

Nathan and Becca and Auden Speakman

Alisha, the beautiful Future Missioniary

Ray and Carolyn Speakman. It all started with these two love-birds. 33 years (I think?) and more in love than ever...

The sisters! (And Bella, of course. Couldn't leave her out)

The Men! Aren't they studs?

Random cute moment...

My Flower

The immediate family. My how we have all grown...

Grandparents and the grandbabies. They loved this one!

2010-03-19T22:51:00.000-07:00

Our sweet nephew Auden turned one! Nathan and Becca put on one heck of a party. Not only was it at a park (Braxton's favorite). . .

They had wonderful decorations, delicious food...

And Candy Galore!! Wahoo!

The Birthday Boy!

My happy baby!!

And the OTHER best part of the party was an awesome ball pit for the kids! By far the coolest party we have been to in...well...probably ever!

She is teething...can you tell?

Awwwwww...so cute!

Check out this face! I love it!

"DEFINITELY the best party ever!" she says

Happy 1st Auden! Thanks for letting us celebrate with you!

Beautiful Babies

2010-03-19T22:39:00.000-07:00

Smiles

2010-03-17T11:42:00.000-07:00

Last Saturday was such as wonderful, happy day. No reason in particular, other than my precious baby girl was in the best mood ever. From the moment she woke up from her morning nap until she went to sleep at night she didn't utter a single cry. She was so bubbly and talkative and smiley and cuddly and played by herself so well and was just a joy. I sure wish I knew what made the difference so I could do it more often.

Monster Truck Jam

2010-03-08T20:55:00.000-08:00

What could be more fun for a two year old than a TRUCK JAM?!?! B-rax loved it, and Justin loved being with B-rax, so they were both happy. :)

B-rax, Jo Jo and Grandpa

Daddy and Braxton

Already practicing for when he is 16. I'm sure it will come all too soon!

This Kid Loves Hats

2010-03-08T20:31:00.001-08:00

Hangin' with Aunt Lee Lee

(Note: This was taken after a traumatizing experience (hair cut!!), so he was given his binkie only for a moment to calm down...)

Braxton is such a big boy. He is talking more and more and often repeats things Justin and I say...it certainly makes me more cautious! I love hearing his take on the world. He is so smart and just loves to have fun. He is a ball of energy and has to be outside for at LEAST an hour a day or he goes stir crazy. He runs barefoot everywhere - i can't get him to wear his shoes for more than like 30 min before he is yanking them off again. He is in love with trucks, fishie crackers, his "baby whales" (bath toys), Dora, (he finally moved on from Little Bear!! Whew!) choo choo trains and anything sweet. I love it when he gives me smooches and tells me he loves me. There is nothing sweeter in the world.

Buds

2010-03-08T20:16:00.000-08:00

I Love watching my children become friends. So often Braxton doesn't want to take a nap or is impatient with me getting him dressed or changing his diaper cause he wants to "Pway wif Bewa!" Unfortunately his idea of "play" is not always the most gentle...I feel like a broken record at times. "Braxton, be soft to your sister." " Braxton, don't kick your sister." "Braxton, don't run over Bella with your scooter." "Braxton, if you hit her one more time..." "Braxton, don't throw your toys at Bella." "Braxton, leave her hair alone please..."

And yet, she still idolizes him. What would the world be like if we could all have the heart and love of a babe?

Bella Rose, My Beautiful Flower

2010-03-08T19:52:00.000-08:00

Has it really only been 8 months since this little beauty entered my life? It feels like she has held a piece of my heart forever.

Check out this poser...can you say CHEEZMO!! Oh how I love it!!

She is so full of personality, every day is like opening a present to see what new quirk she will have.

She loves to be held and loved and cuddled with. She loves exploring and uses her mouth to test out EVERYTHING, putting anything and everything into it she comes in contact with. She is like a human vacuum cleaner. Great for the floor, bad for my baby. She loves singing and dancing to music and copying whatever her older brother is doing.

Her smile melts my heart.

She is definitely a drama queen in the making! When she is mad or frustrated she starts crawling towards me then throws herself down on the floor and cries, then crawls a little further and throws herself down again, and will continue this until I notice her or pick her up. Its so funny I can't help laughing!

No teeth yet, but thats a good thing because I can't get her to take a bottle. She is definitely attached to me in more ways than one...

Zoo Trip Feb '10

2010-02-25T13:33:00.000-08:00

The weather here lately has been absolutely beautiful. Aubray and I decided to take the kids to the zoo and enjoy it while we can before it gets too hot, so last Friday we packed 'em all up and headed over there.

Posing for the camera on the bridge before going in. Braxton was being a stinker the whole day and wouldn't look at the camera any time I tried to take a picture...

Aubray and her kids

Playing on the statues in the Children's Trail

Aubray and her baby. He is such an amazing baby, and was so perfect the whole time. What a sweetie!

At the petting zoo! This was the first time Braxton actually wanted to pet the animals while in there. It was funny though cause of course there is a pretty strong smell from all the animals, and the whole time he kept trying to hold his breath and would wrinkle up his nose and say "stinks!" He has a strong sense of smell and has to smell EVERYTHING.

Cute little Ginger

At the park at the end of the Children's Trail. Again, wouldn't look at the camera.

Here is my beautiful baby girl...

Seriously, how could you not love that face??

Gettin' tired...

Uh...it just looks funny.

The wallabies were the coolest!!

We had so much fun and loved being outside all day enjoying the weather and nature. The babies were so good the whole time, the kids played well together, and it was a wonderful day!

Valentine's Play Date

2010-02-16T20:56:00.000-08:00

So last Friday my friend Aubray brought her kiddos over for a Valentine's play date! We decorated yummy sugar cookies and played outside in the beautiful 70 degree weather and talked and laughed and had a grand time. Its so nice having wonderful friends that add a sparkle to everyday life!

Me and Aubray, buds

Aubray's daughter, Ginger, enjoying her cookie

Braxton. He enjoyed one too many cookies, I think

The babies, Bella and Harrison. They played so well together and were fascinated be each other all day.

We had a wonderful time. Thanks guys!