Clu-ed In

2012-01-27T22:27:00.000-07:00

I asked Max to clean-up his toys and about 5 minutes later he returns and our conversation is as follow:
Max: Your Majesty, I have cleaned up the toys may I go play?
Mom: You got all the toys picked up?
Max: Yes your majesty.
Mom: Then you may go play, see ya later alligator.
Max: After awhile crocodile.
He was off down the stairs to play with dad.

Perfect Pair

2012-01-24T13:44:00.001-07:00

I love it when Clu helps people with computers. I either learn new things about computers or get to see fun documents and photos. This is a quick glimpse at what we saw this time.

Not sure where these two were going, but I think I know who to ask.

I know that this one is from their wedding, just a couple of years ago.

Rocking my bab(ies)

2012-01-21T00:44:00.000-07:00

My mother often recites this poem to me. It is a perfect reminder to savor the good life of the precious little moments.

Rocking My baby

Cleaning and scrubbing can wait til tomorrow
For babies grow up we learn to our sorrow
So quiet down cobwebs and dust go to sleep
I'm rocking my baby and babies don't keep.

(Author Unknown)

Tali and I started rocking with a little leche, and

Max thought he would join the fun. We welcomed the company and I quickly called for Clu to take a picture. I don't want to forget this one!

Lego Master

2012-01-21T00:30:00.001-07:00

Max has really gotten into the Lego building. Both grandparents have LOTS of legos at there house and he loves to play with them. This year he was blessed to get a bunch of legos of his own. He can't wait to show you all of his creations with big long descriptions about them. He will sometimes ask if I like his "imagining".

I had a huge imagination growing up and wanted to instill that in my children. A block can become whatever you want it to be by pretending...that is exactly what he has done:

P.S. Thanks Gpa & Gma and Nana Deb for the Lego loot!

virus

2012-01-21T00:22:00.001-07:00

We had our turn at the 24 hour bug that was going around (Clu was exempt this time). I thought that maybe we would get lucky since we have pretty much been inside with Tali's dr. restrictions (no such luck).

Disclaimer: I am behind in my posting and this sickness was about 3 weeks ago and has passed our house.

HAIR

2012-01-19T23:30:00.001-07:00

Having a little girl with hair can be lots of fun (if she can sit still for 2 seconds). Here are a couple pictures of her crazy hair.

Tali after her nap

She has "piggies"

It must be a family thing to wake up with bed head!

Big 01!

2012-01-14T00:44:00.001-07:00

Our Little Tali Deb (or TD as Max calls her) has turned 1! The time has passed so quick and it makes me sad to think that she is a toddler now. I still think of her as a 6 month old but she reminds me (and some times scolds me) when I do.

Opening presents at one of her parties (with a ~~little~~ a lot of help from Max)

finding all the treasures in her new purse

Time for cake, she has my sweet tooth and ate all the frosting

She had her 1 year check up this week and the doctor was pleased to see how healthy she looked (and even commented on her chubby cheeks). She has stayed steady on her own growth curve (-10th for weight, 20th for height and -10th for head circumference). At the rate that she is gaining weight she might be 3 by the time she can turn around in her car seat.

She is a total delight constantly smiling and getting into things. She laughs more and loves to play and copy what Max is doing. He can't wait for her to get up from her nap so that they can play together. That is exactly what I was hoping for with my children. It was worth every miserable second of my pregnancies! We are so blessed (which is probably the theme of our whole year)!

Kris Kingle

2012-01-14T00:30:00.001-07:00

We were not forgotten (even though Santa forgot some gifts at Christmas). Kris Kingle brings the gifts and places them on the table instead of by the Christmas tree. Max didn't remember this and so he went running into the living room to be sorely disappointed, it was empty. Clu and I kept telling him that there must not be any gifts and to just go eat breakfast. Papa couldn't stand to see that sad face and so he told him that he thought he saw some presents on the table. What a soft heart.

Christmas

2012-01-14T00:26:00.001-07:00

Despite Tali being sick the doctors gave her the okay to travel to SG for Christmas. It was a much needed trip to enjoy the sunshine and warm weather (of course Max went for hikes and walks daily).
With children Christmas is magical and this year was no exception. Max was a delight when his eyes lit up and watching him teach Tali about Santa, gifts and Christmas.
For Max Christmas came early when Clu got out the old Lionel trains. He played with them non-stop for two days before Santa came. He knew that they were special and would ask to go and play with "Clu's toys". (Picture to come soon).

Playing games on Christmas Eve with the Family:

Max helping with Bingo

Misty brought a special gift for Tali on Christmas Eve. It was a bear that was given to her earlier in the week and didn't want it. She thought that Tali would so she re-wrapped it and gave it to Tali. She was right, Tali loves this bear and her Aunt Misty.

Max in the Billibo from N&P

(The camera died on Christmas morning so all of the pictures are once again on Clu's phone. I thought I should at least post what I had or I might not get it done.)

This year was a special one to remind me that we have all that we need a happy healthy family!

Max's sleep over

2012-01-14T00:15:00.001-07:00

While Tali was in the hospital, Max got to have a special sleep over at G&G Snows. They made him feel so special and the center of attention (which he really needed). He got to go to Home Depot with Gpa, fix trucks, play games and legos with Gma. I can't thank them enough, it was just what Max needed and gave me peace to know that he was happy and care for at such a hard time.

Showing off his Home Depot "loot". It is a "Cars" snow globe, which has entertained for many hours!

The Lego creations were plentiful

Helping Gpa fix the cars

All while we were taking care of this one

Thanksgiving

2012-01-14T00:09:00.001-07:00

We had a BLAST in SG with the Snow Family for Thanksgiving. I just wished I had more pictures to document the fun (Clu's phone takes excellent pictures but I never remember to get the pictures). Despite all of us being sick the kids loved playing with all the cousins. It is hard not living close but we try to make up for when we are together.

They don't look sick but they were both in the tub/sink to bring the temps down.

Hiking on the red hill. He wants to go hiking every time we go to SG.

Little miss with her contagious smile.

G&G Showing all the grands SG from the "DIXIE" rock.

Aunt Deb got the kids together to make Gingerbread houses which was a huge hit! Max kept sneaking treats off of his. He talked about that for weeks after.

Christmas decorating

2012-01-13T23:59:00.001-07:00

It takes days to decorate for Christmas at our house. Clu has instilled his love for Christmas in Max and I am sure that he will do the same for Tali. We have 2 trees, garland and put decorations in each room of the house, which transforms our home into a magical wonderland that elves, fairies and Santa can visit (and that we LOVE).

Max touched s0me ornaments and then his face...ooooppps

I am SO glad that we decorated early this year (1st week in November). We even got to have Uncle Zac enjoy it with us. I knew that we would be doing a lot of traveling but I had no idea what our holiday season would turn out to be.

Tali Update

2011-12-12T12:21:00.002-07:00

A quick update on Tali:

In baby jail, The first day she love the bed and would walk around holding on to the bars. The other days not so much.

They are letting us come home from the hospital but with more testing, monitoring and doctors visits ahead. They think they are getting closer to a diagnosis (hurray). Tomorrow we will be seeing the Pediatric Cardiologist and doing a sedated echo. They are checking to make sure that her heart and arteries are okay since they suspect that she had atypical Kawasaki's Disease which can cause damage to both. Then after that we will be following up with the Infectious Disease team and they will be reporting on the extensive blood work and tests they preformed yesterday.

We are so grateful to all of the doctors and nurses that have been caring for her. They are all wonderful providers and have been working hard to find out what has been causing these fevers. She is an amazing, resilient little girl. She didn't get a lot of sleep (who does in the hospital) but was still happy and smiling for everyone. We had many nurses just coming in to meet Tali because they heard what a happy baby she is. She also had over 6 doctors and specialists coming in and out and also all there at the same time. She would visit with all of them. The Infectious Disease team couldn't believe that she is so happy with all of this going on. The ID (Infectious Disease) team have been asking us a bunch of odd questions (like to do we have any pet rats) in hopes of helping them find the cause! Really, they think I would have a pet rat!

Trying to get out. Normally she doesn't get her binky all day but at the hospital she sure did.

Trying to eat her IV. They said that most babies cry with the IV cause of the odd feeling of it entering the body. She would stare and then try and eat it. No tears for her (except when they put the IV in).

Pulling at straws (literally) with things for her to play with. She wasn't allowed into the playroom because they don't know what is wrong and so they don't know if it is infectious.

P.S. Nannie insisted that she have a clip in her hair to keep it out of her eyes....her daddy took care of that one.

Thank you for the prayers we know that they are working and that they are helping to guide the doctors in finding out what is wrong.

Random Life

2011-12-12T11:57:00.000-07:00

A little at what is happening around our house:

Max helping make cake (our finished product, with most of the nuts right in the middle..placed by Max).

Max having a bath and Tali wishing she was too

Naughty Tali getting into the dishes. They were clean.

Max and Mommy date to Krispy Kreme. He got a special snow man doughnut.

Tali reading her book.

Halloween

2011-12-12T11:52:00.000-07:00

Way late but still fun, Max went to Nana Deb's 1st grade party. They had a lot of fun activites at the centers. He especially loved making a skeleton with q-tips. He was even in the Halloween parade.

After we went trick-or-treating. Max thought that you were supposed to knock on the doors and give them a treat and so every time they gave him a treat he was SO excited.

Attempting Halloween pictures

"Garving"

2011-11-03T12:48:00.000-07:00

Yes, it says "garving" Max refers to carving pumpkins as "garving" and don't think about correcting him. He is sure that he is saying it right. We had a great time garving pumpkins and fabulous for me since I didn't have to do one. For some reason I can't stand the slimy guts inside the pumpkins. I was designated to take pictures, watch Tali and the not so fun job of cleaning up.
The fun begins...

Getting the guts

Trying to cut through a VERY thick pumpkin

Tali playing with straws

Mom and Tali

The good witch

2011-11-03T12:22:00.001-07:00

Witchelina, the good witch came to visit our house this past week. She brought a bunch of fun activities, treats and even a few special surprises. The favorite was some "dough" to go buy doughnuts. We went to Krispy Kremes, watched the doughnut machine and enjoyed a special doughnut. Max chose a spider web doughnut and could NOT wait to get home to eat it. My favorite was the first morning that she left a surprise Max came running upstairs "Mommy, Mommy hurry come look... Santa came". This age is so much fun!

This is the "loot" from two days (one day was a movie and pop pop and the second was a card to color, starburst and the "dough").

The movie....it has been watched plenty of times

"Dough" for the doughnuts

and as always Tali is along for the ride, which can be bumpy with Max as a brother

Getting into mischief

THANKS WITCHELINA, COME AGAIN NEXT YEAR!

Racquetball Lesson

2011-10-21T01:31:00.000-06:00

Family time at the court....

Max is more coordinated that I am.

Has all the gear...

1. Racquet is an old one from 20+ years ago, that came from N&P's house

2. Ball from dad's R-ball bag

3. Lowe's kids club goggles

Tali enjoying the "chase"

Now her turn to play

All done and ready to go get a treat

Halloween fun

2011-10-21T01:15:00.000-06:00

Max loves everything Halloween (and the fact that next is Thanksgiving and Christmas...he has already started talking Christmas just like his dad).

Now to church to show off his "killer" candy corn tie. (Stef made it!)

2011-10-21T01:02:00.000-06:00

Don't ya love this smile!

He is thrilled that they are Glow-in-the-Dark.

Anyone for a ride

2011-10-21T00:57:00.001-06:00

"In every job that must be done, there is an element of fun.

You find the fun, and - SNAP - the job's a game!"

- Mary Poppins

Laundry Day:

That is our fun for the day....Love my family!

9 months

2011-10-21T00:36:00.000-06:00

Tali is now 9 months and still a little peanut. She is 14.2 lbs (-10th percentile) and in the 30th for height (she gets that from me). She is healthy, happy and lots of fun to dress.

She lights up the room with her big happy grin and loves to play with Max.Giggling more every day, she loves to tease (gets that from her dad) and eat "real" food. She waves, does "So Big" and is working on signing "more". She has a fascination with faces and especially noses and might stick her finger up yours if you aren't watching.

She still has the best temperament (unless sleepy) and will snuggle right down when ready for bed. I love to go and get her out of her bed, even if she is screaming, you walk in and the smiling starts and the arms are waiving with excitement (wish everyone was that excited to see me).

Quack-quack

2011-10-21T00:22:00.000-06:00

Our little ducky in her towel. Her eyelashes have come out and they are almost as long as Max's.

Max at about 3/4 months. They are about the same weight but I think Tali has chubbier cheeks.

Crawling

2011-10-21T00:14:00.000-06:00

Tali has been crawling for over a month so I guess we better show you her stuff.

This video was taken right after she learned to crawl so she is still getting the hang of it but very cute while doing so.

Jam Session

2011-10-07T17:45:00.002-06:00

Somehow our deep freeze was unplugged and we lost everything in it. My first project was the strawberry freezer jam. We all love it and it seems to go very fast, so I hope we like it a lot since I made enough to last us years! We have been working on following directions with Max and having him help me cook has made a huge difference.
Pouring....

Scooping...

Stirring...

As usual Tali is along for the ride (with crazy hair).

I can't believe that Max started helping me when he was this big.

Cats away the kittens will play

2011-10-02T22:12:00.000-06:00

Clu and I went to celebrate our 10 year anniversary in Vegas dropping the kids off at N&P's on the way. We did everything we love to do without two kiddos in tow (pool, shopping, nice restaurants, shows and maybe a little gambling). They didn't even miss us (except the time Max put himself in time out). I am not even sure they were glad to see us when we got back.
Just a few of the reasons they were happy to be with at Nan and Papa's:

Tali after a nap (crazy hair) and ready to eat

naked time for Tali

While Max and Papa watch Star Wars (not mother approved)

Wearing Papa's hat getting ready to go to Pine Valley and check on the cows and horses

Playin' in the back of Gpa Esplin's truck (waiting for the swing)

Tali visiting with Gma Esplin and loving it

As for Clu and I we don't have any pictures (not even one) to document our time in Vegas, but nobody really cares about pictures of us anyway.

Hats off

2011-10-02T21:55:00.000-06:00

I was getting out all of the fall/winter clothing and Max found Tali's hat and thought he would try it on her. It must have looked like lots of fun and so he thought we should dig out his as well.

This hat Gma Snow knitted for Tali to come home from the hospital in (it said it was a newborn size) but once she saw Tali she knew it would never fit and whipped out another one to bring her home in. She is amazing to say the least and she is the "Best Grandma in the Cook"!

This is the hat that she quickly knitted for us to bring her home in (and the booties too).

Utah vs. BYU

2011-09-28T12:06:00.002-06:00

We were ready for the BYU vs. Utah game this year. Max asked to go to the game and we told him we didn't have tickets but continued asking for tickets so he could go. We told them they were all sold out but he still wanted to go, but finally settled to watch the U on TV with dad and some pop-pop (popcorn).

We ran an errand to the store and while we were there he told a couple of strangers looking at BYU merchandise (in the BYU Tent) "Where is the UTES TENT?" The girls laughed and told him, "NOOOO you don't want to wear that." Max quickly replied "Yes I do, GO UTES!" We all know who taught him that.

We didn't forget to call Papa that morning and tell him Go Utes but Max also told him Go Cougars and that made Papa happy. Tali was along for the ride as usual but sure looked cute doing so.

When I pulled the Utah shirts out Max wanted to wear Tali's cause it had an angry bird on it. After some coaxing he liked his shirt too cause it had an angry bird feather and showed his big muscles instead.

Pretzel man

2011-09-28T11:52:00.001-06:00

Clu found this great, EASY pretzel recipe and so we thought we would give it a shot. For FHE we rolled, dipped, cooked and ate these yummy pretzels. The recipe is a definite keeper.

(Note Max's shirt...he loves to wear it and chooses it regularly)

Max loved rolling out the dough and dipping them in the cinnamon and sugar.

Tali chose to roll and crawl all over the kitchen instead.

I vote that Clu be the cook at our house. He is much better than I will ever be!

Shaka-shaka

2011-09-28T11:42:00.000-06:00

Tali loves the maracas and I love that they entertain her.

Blah...Blah...Blah

2011-09-05T22:37:00.001-06:00

Our Max-ster has some of the funniest replies and comments that come out of no where. I'm sure you know the experience and say..."Where in the world did that come from...?" or "What did you say?" I need to jot them down when he says them so I can remember them.

Sunday was a busy day for us and after church Max and Tali went home with Dad. I stayed a bit to help with some of the sisters in our ward. Finally made it home and Max was already in his play clothes, eating lunch, Tali undressed, and diaper changed. She was ready for her "leche" (milk) which I was glad to help. I was sad to leave again so quickly. I had to turn around and visit a few more sisters in our ward. I kissed Max good bye and put little Tal down for her afternoon nap.

While I was gone and Clu was with the kids Max said this:
Max:   "Where is mommy at daddy?"
Clu:   "She left to do some visits in the ward."
Max:   "But why?" (im sure no one has ever had the "but why?" question right)
Clu:   "She is going to visit a few sisters in the ward to make sure they are OK."
Max:  "But why does she have visiting to do.......SHE TALKS TOO MUCH ALREADY...".
Clu promptly shared this story with G&G Snow and Papa & Nan. I didn't even know about it until I was talking to my mom on the phone later that night. My mom made a comment that I do talk a lot. I was confused and she told me to talk to my husband and he would tell me about that comment.

Clu had a good laugh and so did I when I FINALLY heard the story. Love the boys and my Tal!

Savor

2011-09-02T21:23:00.000-06:00

Pictures are blurry cause she was up on those knees rockin' away, but great to watch her figuring things out (maybe).

Watching Tali get up on her knees and rock the other night gave me a bit of anxiety! When did she get so big? Did I snuggle her enough? Have we read enough books? Am I giving her the same attention as Max? Am I a good mother? Among a million other things racing through my head. I think that the main theme was I am not ready for the "baby times" to be over and it looks like they are quickly coming to an end. Am I savoring the moments or getting caught up in the cleaning, ironing, washing, church callings, HOA and mundane things of life? I guess it was a good reminder that I need to stop and recognize that the most important thing I can be doing is being a MOM/"workin' at my trade" and to SAVOR every fleeting moment!

Tali right after getting dressed (not crazy hair for about 5 minutes) in her super cute outfit Stef made.

Caught Max on the couch with "Barker" the dog and "softee" for a little quite time.

About with Bentley

2011-09-02T20:44:00.000-06:00

Max and his cousin Bentley have become best friends. If you mention that we are going to play with Bentley then it is non-stop talking about what they are going to do and when do we get to go. This trip was no different, we met up at dinosaur museum, and as usual the boys were inseparable and having a blast.

We are missing Bentley in this picture, he is not a big fan of dirt,

but Max is and so he went digging for dino bones.

Tali was a good sport to stay in her stroller, and finally the last 10 minutes she fell asleep.

Quiet times

2011-09-02T20:31:00.001-06:00

I love to watch the kids during quiet times, when no one is supposed to be watching. I find that the kindness and love comes out in abundance. Those are the memories that you wish could be captured for all to see, instead you make a mental picture that you hope to remember when the craziness comes back.

About a week ago Max was watching his dad mow the lawn and so I thought Tali might like to do the same. Soon Max sat down next to Tali to share his toys and to tell her about Daddy mowing the lawn, he even had his arm around her, but I wasn't quick enough to get a picture.

Love to laugh

2011-08-26T18:37:00.000-06:00

Max was always laughing but Tali is a little quieter. When she does laugh she sure lets it out (mostly for her daddy).

Crazy hair but happy girl

2011-08-26T18:30:00.000-06:00

and you can see why...

You can hear me talking in the video and this is what I was reffering to.

I didn't take the sucker away this time, I knew better!

Cleaning up the after math. First bath in the sink and LOVED it!

Stucki Boy

2011-08-26T18:20:00.000-06:00

Max loves to wear his "Stucki shirt" and as he says "be a Stucki just like papa" (and Tali looks cute in hers too). He would wear this shirt 24/7 if I would let him. These came from the Harvey & Hilda Stucki Family Reunion. We were so sad we missed it but glad we got the swag.

Need a faster camera for these two.

Especially this one! He never holds still.

Check out the dimples in the knees, we are putting on some lbs.

Max being a great "helper"

What to do

2011-08-26T18:16:00.000-06:00

I just don't know what to do with this hair some days...

It is craziness after naptime

I do however know what these darling cheeks need... A BIG KISS!

She has started to put a little weight on and it is sure cute!

Race track

2011-08-26T18:13:00.000-06:00

Aunt Mary gave Max this darling sock monkey blanket when he was born. It is a favorite around our house, but not just to keep him warm. He now races his cars on it:

He loved that they each had their own track to race down

Dad helped him with this one and he loved it. He likes to look at this picture.

My dads language (not his own)

2011-08-20T22:33:00.001-06:00

We tease my dad all the time about this, but if you are native to Southern Utah you know exactly what they are talking about.

Daddy's girl

2011-08-17T20:26:00.001-06:00

He is the one to always make her laugh, she constantly visits with him (she doesn't talk a lot), reaches for him when he walks in the door and can get her to sleep when no one else can!

He is one in a billion and she only has eyes for him!

On a side note she had her 6 month check up and weighed in at a whopping 11lbs 5 ozs (-10%). She has met all the milestones and so they weren't too concerned and said to have her weighed in a month. With the suggestions that were given she gained over a pound (now at 12.7) which puts her in the 0%. We are thrilled at her gain!

FHE

2011-08-17T19:55:00.000-06:00

A favorite FHE at our house:

Clu sets the projector up in the basement and it is movie night including pop pop (sprinkled with skittles) and "spicy" (soda).

SG...again

2011-08-17T19:50:00.000-06:00

It never gets old to go to SG. Max (and now Tali) love to stay at Nan and Papa's house. After our trip to Lake Powell we pit stopped in SG for a couple of days.
Lazy days were in abundance. We swam with Xavi, went to the gym, walked around the temple, hit the splash park, visited Great Grandparents, went to Nannies school, fed and watered the cows and horses in Pine Valley along with many hours to playing in Papa's sprinklers.

Max asked Nan for a picture of him with his "baby sister"...

Our little fish

Since Lake Powell he has taken to water

Despite all of this fun we were glad to be home (2.5 weeks away is plenty for all).

Fast Friends

2011-08-17T19:38:00.000-06:00

I haven't seen my cousin Rachel for years. In the college days she lived close to my sister (her sister lived with my sister) and so we saw each other a lot. Since then we married and had families. We were lucky enough to be in SG at the same time and spent the morning at G&G E's together.

Slade, Rachel, Kate, Caleb and Owen

The kids became fast friends. Her children were so kind to Max. They built Lego tunnels, searched for "jewels" together, threw rocks, blew bubbles, saw Gpa's bugs and got to swing in Gpa E's cool tire swing.

Max and Kate throwing rocks

Max and Kate having a turn in Gpa's famous tire swing

The next day Max asked to go play with his nice "friend cousins".

LP

2011-08-12T17:01:00.000-06:00

The last time I took Max to LP, I told myself I would never do it again. I ate my words and took not only Max but Tali to Lake Powell as a single woman (Clu had to work). This trip still had sleeplessness and temper tantrums but watching the kids play in the water and with the cousins by far made up for it. I am sure my mom said the same thing every time she took us to LP but year after year we went (and camped nonetheless). We grew closer to family and made fond memories. Thanks for keeping the tradition alive!

Driving the houseboat

Jumping off the Houseboat

Riding in the boat (supposed to be holding the flag)

Wake surfing

Emma, Courtney and Chasta

Lyvi, Meg and Max

Tyler, Cy and Shannon

Lyvi, Brittney and Emma

Water Baby!

Marc and Zac are CRAZY in the tube (so is the driver...Wayne)!

Wake Surfing

Little Momma

Watching the fish

Time to go home.

Slip-n-slide

2011-08-12T16:11:00.001-06:00

Deserving a post of its own is the slip-n-slide!

The kids played on the slide for hours! My favorites were Roman catching air and Garrett's slide into the chairs (If someone would've gotten it on video it would've won AFV for sure!)

The pictures speak for themselves....

* Watch the video and listen to Steve's laugh at the end...priceless! Once again...cherished time as family!

Hobble Creek

2011-08-12T15:55:00.000-06:00

The whirlwind summer vacations are coming to an end, so now it is time to catch up on the memories. We started with a Squire Family Reunion followed by the Snow Family vacation at Hobblecreek. It was so much fun to see the extended family and let the kids play together. Everyone was a good sport about the close quarters which made for many more fantastic memories.
A few of the highlights:
- Sharing a room with Cannon, Roman and Boden (and I guess thier parents too). They were such good sports about all the noise, chaos and things.
- Cousin gift exchange was a huge hit! It was like Christmas in July.

These gifts were well thought out and picked out by the other cousins. It was just how I imagined it to be... we all took the kids to the store and let them pick out the gift for the cousin's name they had. The kids loved thinking about each other and then got to watch them open it.

Max gave to Lindsey and he was so happy they she loved her bracelets. He told me "Momma, she likes it, hurrah". They all took turns opening the gifts and being excited for everyone.

I hope that this will be a tradition in our family, it helps keep us close at heart even though we are miles apart.

- Ummm....Dodgeball. Need I say more. The kids got all the balls out and played boys against girls (they even let Garret and I play). The girls triumphed thanks to Vanessa's winning catch!

Garrett was out because Vanessa caught his ball.

- Visiting the Jerusalem set was a big success. We were lucky enough to see the mostly completed set that the LDS Church will use in the new videos it is producing.
- and last Bedtime! At times we were counting down until bedtime so that we could put the kids down to sleep and have a little adult time with family.

We made so many memories that will last us for many years to come! Thanks to everyone that came we know it wasn't easy (the long drives) but it was worth it and we loved seeing you all.

Worth it!

2011-07-30T15:31:00.000-06:00

It was worth ALL of the preparation, sleepless nights, napless days (for the kids), crankiness, bruises and headaches to watch these two LOVE the lake as much as I did growing up.

These were taken with my phone and aren't a good quality but more to come.

WWF

2011-07-14T22:09:00.000-06:00

Max has quickly shown Tali the art of "rough-housing"

Sheer joy to watch them play together.

So lucky to be loved

2011-07-12T16:55:00.000-06:00

We have so much love around us and get to experience it daily!

This max at Nana Deb's building with her blocks (that she got for him to play with) after she fed us dinner.

Life can't get any better! We love our families!

2011-07-09T18:44:00.000-06:00

Why do grandparents always give the best gifts:

Thanks Gpa and Gma Snow!

Who is who?

2011-06-01T21:27:00.000-06:00

Max and Tali about about the same age:

Foodie

2011-06-01T21:19:00.000-06:00

We skipped the rice cereal and went for the good stuff: apple and pear sauce. It is lip smackin' good!

First bite

All done

Birthday Bash

2011-05-26T22:28:00.000-06:00

We celebrated birthdays with Gpa, Gma Snow and Nana Deb. It was a huge hit, this little boy is SO spoiled by ALL his family. Once again we had a favorites dinner and dessert (cupcakes with candles).

Loving the singing and candles again

Round 2 (daddy's cupcake)

Round 3

Round 4

Round 5

Presents followed and once again he made a haul. He got a cool sand/water table from gma and gpa and Nana Deb gave him a lawn mower. For the past month he has been telling everyone that he was getting a bike and a lawn mower for his birthday. I am not sure why he wanted a lawn mower but I thought he would just get over it. We gave him a bike and he was thrilled but still talked about a lawn mower (we knew Deb had bought him one and found out that so did gma and gpa, but returned it for the water table) he hasn't stopped playing with it since!

Tali was along for the ride.

She is such a GOOD baby and so patient with her brother that loves to kiss and poke her eyes!

We did celebrate my birthday and Clu's but it is much more fun to talk about and take pictures of Max. We had great birthdays, thanks for all the birthday wishes. It is fun to have birthdays so close but sometimes they just become a second thought.

So Happy Birthday CLU! You are one year older and as handy as ever, you make my life so easy with all the odd jobs you do! You are amazing at anything you do including being a dad. Max can't wait for you to walk through the door each night. Before naps he tells me what he is going to do with daddy when you get home. I also can't wait for you to get home but often don't get a chance to visit one on one until all of our meetings are over and we are headed to bed. Thanks for making time for all of us.

Oh the Birthday boy!

2011-05-26T22:05:00.000-06:00

I can't believe that he is 3! His birthday was on Sunday and with church at 9 am we decided to let him open his present from Tali before church and then the rest after.

The haul

Loved the Bumble Bee (Transformers) bike

We had a favorite foods dinner and dessert (cupcakes with candles). He loved being sung to and blowing out the candles so we did a couple of rounds of that.

Round 1

Round 2

I can't get enough of this darling littler boy. This is such a fun age to watch and hear him discover new things and try and express it.

He loves:

"Cars", trains, dinosaurs, diggers, tractors and basically anything with wheels (and the wheels too).

To eat his fruits and vegetables and will often choose fruit over a treat.

When his daddy comes home and plays with him.

Playing outside in the dirt

His sister and has to "save" her in the castle (her bedroom) after she gets up from her nap

The day this little guy joined our family was so memorable but the days that have followed have made life so fun and rewarding! I couldn't imagine doing anything else than what I am doing now.

The Annual

2011-05-13T22:39:00.000-06:00

this tradition has become a bit more difficult as the little ones get older and want attention while we are working, to help we put Nannie in charge of entertaining them. Can't wait till they are old enough to start helping!

I was so glad that Clu was feeling well enough to help. He had food poisoning two days earlier and after throwing up all night he turned to me early that morning and said I have so much sympathy for you. You did this twice for over 9 months...ummm yep (it was worth it but glad you understand).

We called it a day to have a BBQ and enjoy everyone's company.

Congrats!

2011-05-13T22:28:00.000-06:00

Both of my younger brothers graduated this past weekend. Marcus with his B.S. in Biochemistry and Zac with his A.A. in Business.

John & Marcus Stucki

Marc & Mom

Marc & Gma Esplin

Dad & Marc

Marcus is applying to do a Post Bac in a research lab before heading on to complete a MD/PhD in Genetics. Zac is taking a few classes this summer at Dixie before applying to Harvard.

We love storytime

2011-05-13T22:20:00.000-06:00

Max LOVES storytime and this is why...

Mr. Dallin is the coolest and even makes all of the puppets.

(Oh boy, did Max ever need a haircut it looked pretty bad.)

All by myself

2011-05-13T22:17:00.000-06:00

Grins and Giggles

2011-04-28T22:27:00.000-06:00

These two are kindred spirits. They sure love each other, and as Tali gets older you see it even more.

Easter attempt

2011-04-24T22:38:00.000-06:00

The only day of the year my kids will match/coordinate (unless it is for a family photo) is today. Clu hates it but he loves me and that is why it happened.
Attempts at photos

They all make me laugh and love them even more. Yes, we were late to church because I was taking these (I wanted to try while hair was still combed and they were ~~happy~~ weren't screaming). As you can see I failed but I have pictures to remember this year.

Tali Talking

2011-04-23T11:52:00.000-06:00

Her daddy is sure she is already saying his name. What do you think?

Newly born

2011-04-23T11:30:00.001-06:00

I forgot to post these pictures of sweet Tali at about 5 weeks.

I love this mad face

Booties that Gma Snow made for her

We couldn't get her to sleep,

but I love these pictures because I get to see her deep eyes.

Oh I LOVE this ~~little~~ big yawn

Max gives us the facial expression too, I wonder if it is from mommy or daddy?

Framed Photography : Thanks for all the BEAUTIFUL photos! You captured our little angel (even if she was difficult).

Bootie-licious

2011-04-23T11:20:00.000-06:00

Since Tali's feet are skinny and little we have had a hard time finding shoes. Gma Snow gave me this great bootie patten and this is how they turned out.

hmmm... how am I going to get a picture

of her when she won't hold still.

Bootie's on her tiny little feet.

Finally got her to hold still for a minute.

Okay, maybe only a second.

By the way: My parents were in town and we went to the Paleontology Museum at BYU to see the dinosaurs and my mom was holding Tali. A man came over and went nuts at how cute Tali was, and look at all that hair. I turned around and he said "I see both her mom and dad have dark hair (Clu was not with us)". I said "Oh, that is my dad but he will appreciate your comment". We had a good laugh but when we are together my dad will often be mistaken for my brother. That is either good for my dad or really bad for me. To answer the man's question about Tali's hair... it is from her momma. I had a head full and it was a bit curly, Clu didn't have a lot of hair when he was born.

Escape Artist

2011-04-20T22:46:00.001-06:00

The other day Max was playing in the backyard and it seemed pretty quiet. I looked out the window and he was GONE!

I hurried out and found a trail of toys leading out of the fence. I found him down the street. We had a long talk about staying in the backyard and that night Clu bought a lock for the gate.

The next day this was my conversation with Max-
Max: Mom can I go out back and play?
Megan: Yes, but you’ll have to put your shoes on yourself to go out.
Max: (He struggles but finally puts his shoes on) Ready MOM!
Megan: OK Max have fun…
Few minutes later, I see Max just staring at the gate…
Megan: What’s wrong Max?
Max: It’s locked
Megan: Yes, it is locked because you kept getting out and running away.
Max: OH…Daddy went to Home Depot without me! I wanted to go too! (He didn't care that the gate was locked, he was mad that he didn't get to go to Home Depot.)

I have no idea how this kid knew that you buy locks at Home Depot. There is NO DOUBT that he is Clu's boy.

Randomness

2011-04-20T22:30:00.001-06:00

Babysitter Clu:
Using his mad babysitting skills.

Max learning to "mash" potatos:

I think he ate more than he mashed

Making Cheerio necklace:

Tali takin' a bath:

Teaching Max to clean:

Dusting "his" bunny. He loves this bunny and will carry it around the house. I hope he knows that this bunny hibernates 11 months out of the year.

The necklace

2011-04-14T12:14:00.001-06:00

At Tali's blessing she wore this necklace.

The necklace had two small rings on it, one a small diamond and the other an emerald. Nannie and Papa gave her the emerald ring for her to wear at her blessing, baptism and wedding day. They chose an emerald because that is papa's first name (named after his grandfather) and Max, Clu and my birthstone. The diamond ring was the one that my parents (nannie and papa) gave me and I wore on my blessing, baptism and wedding day. She also wore my blessing dress (she was much smaller than I was). It was such a simply beautiful dress that was made for me by my grandmother. The dress was perfect and in excellent condition because my grandmother is an amazing seamstress (she even made my Temple dress that I still wear). She made some minor adjustments and it was ready for Tali.

It was very appropriate to see her blessed by so many special men. We are overjoyed to have our little Tali, despite the hard pregnancy and her rough start she is SO happy and healthy. This momma couldn't be happier...I AM LIV'N MY DREAM with this special little family.

P.S. Thanks to my awesome sisters-in-law for all the great pictures! You make catching special moments so easy (for me) and beautiful.

Gpa McDonald

2011-04-11T22:50:00.000-06:00

Right after Tali's blessing we got in the car and headed to Window Rock for Gpa McDonald's funeral. He spoke broken english and I didn't know him well butI know he was a great man.

The funeral was nice, even though it was in Navajo, I couldn't understand a word, Tali had a huge blow out right after we go there and the only bathroom was an outhouse to change her, and we were late to the funeral because of the excellent directions we were given.

Gpa McDonald, Clu & Max in 2009

The Graveside ceremony

(back of Gma McDonald's head and Tommy speaking)

Back of Gma

Clu told me that he (Gpa) and Gma haven't been apart (married for amost 60 years). After the graveside she said to Clu "Now what?" Oh how it broke my heart, she has lost her sweetheart and companion. How can you explain when you can barely communicate...through the spirit and love which I know she felt. She loved seeing Max and Tali and had been waiting to see them, she told everyone that her grandson Clu was coming...the whole town knew about him (she is SO proud of him).

Grave site

Max in the hotel watching one of the MANY trains go by.

When he heard a train he would bolt for the window.

At the Window Rock monument

Window Rock

"Code Talker" Statue

Hiking to the Rock

Glen Canyon Dam (to stretch our legs)

"you have to hold mommy's hand"

Tali's walk across the bridge

It was a quick, long trip but we were so glad we went. The kiddos were such troopers which made it a little easier.

Tali's Blessing

2011-04-11T11:49:00.000-06:00

We were so lucky to have all our family gather for Tali's blessing. It was a wonderful morning to share, before we got in the car for a long trip to Window Rock.

A quick picture of our little family

Snaps from the visiting after the blessing

Photos of Tali with family:

4 generations (of girls)

Natalia Deb and Deb (who she is named after)

4 generations on my dad's side

SG a little early

2011-04-05T20:47:00.000-06:00

We went to St. George a little early to enjoy the beautiful weather. Clu came down the next weekend and we blessed Tali. We had lots of fun which you will see in the pictures. We also went hiking with the Snow family but I forgot my camera (awwh nuts)! I wish I could've captured all the crazy kids,

Peanut Tali, she has grown a lot in a month and

this outfit actually fits (too bad it is newborn size and she is 3 months).

I made both of my brothers clean out thier rooms while I was there. We found some great old toys...GI Joe, Star Wars, and even Micro Machines. Max had a hay day playing with them (well, the ones that were opened).

Typical, Tali has put Papa to sleep but Max is wide awake.

The little spec on top of the hill is Papa and Max.

They climbed to the top and Max was pretty proud.

Max helping out, by setting the table.

Tali helping out and putting Marcus to sleep (she is excellent at putting others to sleep).

Max swinging at Nan's with Papa and Lizzy

Max found Papa's IPad and loves to play with it. He will tell you that he is "working".

"working"

We found out that you should NOT let Max have ANY caffine, it wires him. I let him have a little of my drink and that was a big mistake. I couldn't get him to sleep for the next 4 hours. He basically ran for that time.

Teaching Tali to play with cars...micro machines. Thank goodness there was adult supervision.

We didn't get to spend as much time together as we thought, Clu's Gpa McDonald passed away and so right after the blessing we headed to Window Rock to his funeral (post to follow after blessing).

Go Cougars...

2011-04-05T20:00:00.000-06:00

Max loves to watch sports (any kind). We knew he would enjoy a basketball game. We had to twist Papa's arm to get him to come with us (it was BYU), it worked and here are the pictures to document. We even took Tali to the game, but forgot how LOUD Cougar fans are so Tali and I only stayed for a little while.

My entertainment was watching the fans, they were pretty into it (including papa).

Back B-loggin'

2011-04-05T19:47:00.000-06:00

Sooooo, it has been awhile and I have plenty to post so here it goes.

I guess Max is a little hungry.

Additions

2011-03-24T18:29:00.001-07:00

Waiting for our new addition (a computer) to update the blog. Check back for some huge updates. Our computers only last about three years and so it was only fitting for this one to die. Thank goodness we "back up" so I have all of my cherished pictures.

On a side note, Tali had her two month check up. To no ones surprise...she is still small.

Weight: 8.8lbs (4%)

Height: 21 3/4" (30%)

Head Circm: (5%)

She is healthy and doing great!

Adventures of naptime

2011-02-23T21:01:00.002-07:00

Some days naptime is a sucess and he will sleep for 3 hours, and some days...not so much!

Today was a complete failure as this picture demonstates.

I was NOT very happy since I had just washed, folded and put away most of those clothes this morning. I guess I got to "re-organize" the clothes in his dresser.

-This picture came from the picture message that I sent Clu telling him that he should hurry home for poor Max's sake.

2011-02-21T13:30:00.000-07:00

The weather looks like this:

So why not wear this:

and enjoy this!

Max to the Rescue

2011-02-19T19:25:00.000-07:00

Max HATES to hear Tali cry and often takes it upon himself to give her the binky when she cries. Yesterday, I was making dinner and Tali started to cry. He told me "Mom Tali is crying, give her her binky". I told him that Tali needs to learn that she doesn't always get the binky. His reply "No way Jose" and climbed up to give her the binky.

She immediately fell asleep which made him so proud that he was helping.

Notice how he gave her the binky...upside down (which obviously didn't bother her one bit)

Love is in the air

2011-02-16T12:26:00.000-07:00

We have had two beautiful days here and couldn't help but take advantage. We have gone for walks to the grocery store and just around. Too bad we are supposed to have snow the next two days. Good bye beautiful sun.

Max is ready to go to the store in the wagon

Mom and Tali (her first trip in the Bjorn).

She was instantly asleep and content.

After our walk Max wasn't ready to come in the house so I sent him to the back yard. Within 5 minutes he and his toys were covered in mud. I know that will make Uncle Zac very proud.

Sunny SG

2011-02-16T12:20:00.002-07:00

Quick trip to Sg to soak up all the sun! Max spent 90% of the time outside enjoying the sun and dirt. A bath for Max was mandatory every night.

Max and Papa playing the "plianyo" piano

while snacking on on oranges

G&G Esplin and Misty couldn't wait to see little Tali,

she didn't disappoint. She snuggled right down for Gma.

Misty holding Tali

hangin' out with Dad right before bed

St. George Temple grounds where Max couldn't stop running

Climbing the steps to knock on the door

New Valentine PJ's

6.14

2011-02-16T12:04:00.000-07:00

Natalia now weighs 6lbs 14ozs, which means that I don't have to continue supplementing with formula(hurray). She is 5 weeks old and we finally had her newborn pictures done. She was pretty fussy so we didn't get many naked shots (and because she is too old) but the shots that we got are pretty darn cute. We love this little peanut!

She is a sweet little angel!

Bathing Beauty

2011-02-09T22:03:00.001-07:00

This was Tali's first bath in the bath tub and surprisingly she was okay with it (Max hated it for a long time). She has loved to have her hair washed since she was born but hasn't always loved being washed.

Having naked time before the bath

Bath time

Ready to get dressed...it is a cold day!

A whopping 20 degrees today.

Cute as a button ready to go for a little outing

This little peanut has finally surpassed her birth weight and

we are all jumping for joy (no more being weighed at the post office). She still has a problem fitting in her clothes but I am sure in time she will.

...Belly Button...

2011-02-07T00:39:00.000-07:00

I opened up a jar of Jelly Belly's that we bought from Costco. I gave some to Max and he was so excited for some treats. He eventually ate them all and came back for more, "May I have more treats?" Told him they were called "Jelly Belly's and yes you can have a bit more." That didn't last long and he came running back this time..."Can I have more "BELLY BUTTON'S"...pleeeeeese!" Oh boy, I couldn't stop laughing and surely had to give him his share again. We love this kid...!

Stickers galore

2011-02-06T23:12:00.000-07:00

Max has filled his sticker chart and earned a toy. I love sticker charts, they have been very motivating for Max. It makes it so I don't have to "count to 3" or threaten with taking things away. He loves to choose the stickers and put them on the chart and then when it is full and he gets a surprise he is thrilled (he forgets that when it is full he gets a reward). I am sure some think this is bribery... and it is at its best!

The Completed chart

The reward

Huge thanks!

2011-02-06T23:08:00.000-07:00

My sister to came to visit this past week. We didn't get a lot of pictures (unfortunately) but we had lots of fun. We chatted and hung out and she was a huge champ and took Max to the store while I napped and then...she watched ALL 3 kids while Clu and I went on a date (exhausting I am sure). Max was sad that he got up the next morning and his bud was gone. Come back soon!

I hope you can see what beautiful eyes this kid has! He is a delightful, busy boy!

Sorry Tia the only picture I had.

Helper

2011-02-06T23:03:00.001-07:00

Max is such a great helper with his sister.
1. When she cries... "Mom give Tali her binky"
2. When she sneezes..."bless you Tali"
3. When she is trying to eat he tries to stick his face right next to hers..."Are you eating Talia?, Are you having leche?"
4. When she is sleeping..."Sweet dreams Tali" and gives her a softee and a kiss
and many more!
5. When someone burps or passes gas "What do you say?" (it doesn't matter who it is, even a stranger at the store... yes, it can make for an embarrasing moment).

Here is was trying to feed her a cracker until we broke the news that she only has leche. Now he asks her how her leche is and if it has "fresca" or "chocolatte" in it.

We are lovin' life!

Little Miss

2011-02-01T17:38:00.000-07:00

In case you were wondering, Tali looks a lot like her momma.

Tali today (over 3 weeks)*

Meg on blessing day

She is now over three weeks old and finally over 6lbs. She doesn't fit in preemie (because she is too long) or newborn clothing (because she is too skinny). She has been forced to wear clothing that drowns her, but Nanny to the rescue.

She has tailored some clothes for Tali to wear.

With a headband to match (love the "object" she used for the head size).

This poor girl is a 2nd child because we don't have many pictures of her (that and the fact that she has been stuck in a bili bed).

*Quality isn't great since pictures were taken with phone

Never a dull moment...

2011-01-22T13:45:00.001-07:00

Having a baby is an adjustment and we started ours by spending some extra time in Salt Lake. Tali had some follow-up appointments and it was much easier to "crash" with G&G Snow than to drive back and forth. While we were there Max got a fever but it didn't turn into anything (until we got home). The night we got home his fever transformed into a yucky cold that has kept us up at night. He has been pretty miserable, so we have kept Tali away. That same day we noticed that Tali's eyes were pretty yellow and so, Uncle Howard to the rescue to have her tested for Jaundice (she is at a higher risk for Jaundice because she tested positive for Coombs).

Of course, her levels were high enough to start her on the bili bed and blanket. She has been in the bed for the past couple of days (still having to stay away from Max) while having blood tests done daily to check her bilirubin levels. With no sleep, stress at work and our crazy life Clu has caught the cold and joined Max in the miserable category. Phyllis and Fran have saved the day by coming to help with Max while I stay with Tali isolated from the sickies and in her bed. Using the word exhausting is an understatment, I am feeling pretty drained and hoping that things can be semi-normal soon (thank you to the prego hormones).

Thanks G&G Snow

2011-01-22T13:17:00.000-07:00

Because Max is a new big brother, G&G Snow thought he needed a "big boy" tent. He loves to go in the basement and play trains and cars in his special tent.

Telling G&G "I Love You" in sign

Here I come

Without further adieu...

2011-01-12T21:12:00.003-07:00

Natalia ("Tali") Deb Snow

We had a list of names and couldn't decide on one. We kept looking at this little girl and thinking what name fit. We finally felt Natalia or "Tali" was the fit. Her middle name we have had since we knew she was a girl, she is named after our wonderful Debbie Snow.

Thanks all for all your support and help through this pregnancy. We look forward to watching our little girl grow. I'm still shocked to see that she is really here. Someone pinch me!

Max is now a BIG BROTHER!

2011-01-11T00:11:00.001-07:00

January 10, 2011
TIME: 2:14 PM
WEIGHT: 6.5 lbs
LENGTH: 19.5 in
NAME: TBD

We currently don't have a name for our little girl. We are just calling her what Max's says, "Baby sister". The name is to come soon. Mom and new Snow girl are doing fine. Max is still wondering when he can go home with Daddy, Mommy and Baby sister. Soon I hope. More pictures to come...

- Clu

Baby Sister

2011-01-08T19:36:00.000-07:00

This little stinker will be here VERY SOON and we don't have a name. We would love suggestions!

What's wrong with this picture?

2011-01-08T19:33:00.001-07:00

We weren't there. Wish we could've been there! Welcome home Uncle Zac, I can't believe it has been two years.

Christmas Soup

2011-01-03T23:17:00.000-07:00

A hearty helping of our Christmas Holiday to remember.

There are plenty of pictures with a smidgen of detail due to the fact that I am trying to hurry and finish my mountain of never ending projects before my hands are literally full with other things.

Christmas morning on our way down the stairs.

Opening gifts from Santa

Loving the Legos (must be a boy thing)

Max-er loves this gift! He shoots the marshmellows all over the house and runs around to stuff them in his mouth. I have found plenty of dried marshmellows around, too much fun!

Working on the Legos with Dad

After a huge storm, the boys out shoveling the snow. It was FREEZING but Max couldn't get enough.

Cold hands after throwing snow balls at mom and dad.

Eying the loot from Kris Kingle on New Years Morning

Watching (or sleeping) the new movie

Putting Christmas away on New Years Day. I was a party pooper and insisted that it be put away so that it would be taken care of before D-day.

The magical lights on temple square. We had the pleasure of going with G&G Snow and the cousins. Max couldn't stop running and staring. It was amazing as usual.

BIG MOMMA and Max looking at the Nativity. There is no hiding that big belly.

Max & Gma on our way back to the car. We couldn't resist a picture because he will never hold our hand.

< 4 weeks

2010-12-20T22:20:00.001-07:00

Not that I am counting down the days, but.... less than 4 weeks to go! Can't wait to meet this little one, but terrified to have 2!

Tree shopping

2010-12-19T17:34:00.000-07:00

This year has been a little different for Max. When we went to SG for Thanksgiving he was still having anxiety about me being in the hospital. I thought it would be good for Max & I to go with my parents to get a Christmas Tree from the Kaibab. Since I was little they have always gone to cut thier own tree (and a few extras).

Playing in all the snow

Cutting the tree

Two perfect trees to take home

Undressing for the ride back to N&P's house. It was a long ride and of course Max refused to sleep but it was worth it. Max loved running and playing in the snow and helping Papa pick and cut the perfect tree.

Decorating the tree with "snow and snowflakes". He was so excited to help Nan. The day after we got home from SG Max was playing with his tools and said "Momma, I go get Papa a Christmas Tree", he proceeded to kneel down by our tree with his saw and "cut" it down just like Papa. Thanks for the memories!

Thanksgiving

2010-12-13T17:26:00.000-07:00

It was so nice to be with family for the holidays. Spent with the Stucki Family, G&G Esplin and Misty. We had a low key meal with lots of visiting and fun and don't forget all the movies. I was just so glad to be out of bed and eating Gma's amazing rolls, it isn't Thanksgiving without them!

Britt, Tom and Emma (nice product placement Tom)

Chloe with olives on the fingers...can't be a kid without it.

Lyvi

Tia & Lee (Xav's had a nap through the whole meal, he is such a sweet boy...picture below)

Way-nerd and Marc

Max & Clu (notice Max's fat lip, he took a dive off a barstool and got a nice gash)

"I'n up here"

2010-11-30T20:33:00.000-07:00

We had TONS of fun while in SG for Thanksgiving. We helped Nan & Papa put up the Christmas decorations. Max went outside to help with the outdoor lights, Papa was on the roof while Nan was holding the lights. All of a sudden my Dad (Papa) turns and says oh no! Then my mom (Nan) hears "I'n up here". My parents forgot to take the ladder down and Max quietly climbed the ladder, then onto the roof to find Papa.

We can laugh about it because he didn't get hurt (thank goodness) he is a quick little bugger.
*More of all the weekend fun will follow (eventually).

Love The Back Seat Giggles...

2010-11-21T02:08:00.001-07:00

As we started on our way to Park City, our Max asked for a request..."Donkey Momma? Should we listen to the donkey Momma?" Clu didn't quite understand but I had loaded the Morman Tab with Brian Stokes Mitchell CD Album, "Ring Christmas Bells" a few days earlier. He has enjoyed listening to the wonderful Christmas songs but has kept me busy keeping the music on track #4 "The Friendly Beasts". I love listening to it too and because of the wonderful sounds that come from the back seat. I'll have to record Max's little giggles when this song is playing. I hope you enjoy his "Donkey song".

GRATEFUL!

2010-11-18T20:00:00.003-07:00

I heard this song today and cried (pregnancy hormones don't help). I thought of all that I have been given and how blessed I am. The quick reflection that it gave, helped me refocus my thoughts and remember that... I have SO much to be grateful for and shouldn't be complaining. We are so lucky to have our little Max and this little one join our family (soon) and are truly GRATEFUL at this time in our lives!

I guess this song is very fitting as Thanksgiving is just a week away.

P.S. Clu and I saw this performace in person; it was amazing! He is an excellent performer and is definitely a "last" leading man.

Still Cooking

2010-11-17T22:00:00.000-07:00

I have had a lot of questions about the baby and this is the easiest/fastest way to let everyone know.
About a week ago "baby sister" (as Max calls her) thought she might want to come early, at about 30 weeks. I had been sick with what we thought was a stomach bug for over 5 days and couldn't shake it . I received IV fluids two days in a row hoping that would help, but it just kept getting worse. Finally the doctor said that I needed to go to the hospital. When I got there I had no idea I had gone into labor, I was so sick with stomach problems. No one cared the real reason I was there because they were concerned about the baby and her almost early arrival. It was pretty scary for awhile and they were preparing to move me to another hospital that delivers babies younger than 32 weeks (there are only two in the SL Valley). After a couple of hours they were able to stop the contractions and work on finding what was causing the pain, sickness and pre-term labor. They ran a million tests and decided that it was my previous stomach problems acting up again. They gave the baby a shot in case she does come early. After two days in the hospital they sent me home with some drugs (they don't advise surgery right now) and to be on bedrest. Our amazing families and friends have come to the rescue and been SO helpful. The baby is doing well and is still cooking in the oven, where we hope to keep her for a couple more weeks.

Thank you to everyone! We are so blessed to have such wonderful family and friends.

Trimming the Tree

2010-11-14T22:00:00.002-07:00

I am SO glad that we put the Christmas decorations up early! With the events from this past week, I don't know if we would have even had time the rest of the season to put them up and prepare for everything else. Needless to say Max was thrilled with all the decorations and loved helping to decorate the tree. It melts my heart to watch his excitement about the whole thing. For days after he would hear a noise and think that it was Santa.
Here are some of the highlights decorating the tree:

Not sure where this "cheese" came from but he was happy to help with the tree

The boys decorating the tree. I didn't get to help, but I did get to watch. They are such good sports!

Max's section, I am not sure how he looped all those decorations together but it was pretty funny and cool.

The best part, the star at the top of the tree

For your viewing pleasure, Max singing and decorating the tree: