The Barnes Family

I'm ashamed

2012-01-19T17:59:00.001-07:00

Yes, it really has taken me quite a while to post. I think I even missed posting about Thanksgiving, my birthday and Christmas. Oi vei, I am ashamed. Things in the Barnes' home have been chaotic, to say the least. I have had some medical issues that were unexpected and I'd like to blame it on fatigue for my lack of posting...but it's laziness pure and simple. Gratefully we've had some wonderful tender mercies thrown our way.

I'm on the mend and on a nice little cocktail of medication that should bring me back to my healthy, happy self:) Tyler has been so great during this process and I'd be ungrateful to have him as a spouse and not voice my appreciation in his support. I'm sure he's about to divorce me over the medical bills, but hopefully he still loves me amidst the drama! The kids are getting so big and saying the funniest things. London told Tyler and I the other day that Jesus was no longer on this Earth even though he was resurrected. Like the proud parents that we are, we said, "That's right!" She was also proud and said, "Yep, Jesus lives in the woods now." Completely confused we just looked at each other. Finally, Tyler asked, "Do you mean the woods where Jesus and Heavenly Father appeared to Joseph Smith?" She said, "Yes that's what I JUST SAID! Cause I just know things and nobody told me." It's odd the things that totally just become confusing in a little child's brain.

To go back to my birthday, it was such a simple day and celebrated by eating cake and ice creams at my parents with all the fam.

Oh, and Monica made the biggest, baddest, most delicious chocolate cake with ganache on the planet. It was hilarious how huge it got.

It was great to see Monica, Brad and Clara. She's such a cute little mix of both of them. London and Tyler had spent some time making me a chain necklace for my birthday. London had told Tyler that she wanted to give mom a gift just from her and it had to be a necklace with diamonds and hearts. That's exactly what they made and it was absolutely precious.

My parents gave me an awesome magnet board that my dear mother spent so much time making and painting. I love it. I also loved the money and gift cards for some garments.

Best gifts ever. This year we spent Thanksgiving with Tyler's family...or Aunt's and Uncles and cousins. That was a rough day. I was feeling so very sick and had to teach at the Turkey Burn at Gold's Gym. After being there for four hours, I was so sick and physically exhausted that I really couldn't even eat Thanksgiving dinner.

I pretty much just watched everyone else and tried to hide my wheezing chest. Madden also had a croup scare during this time and we spent an entire night at my parents so that my dad could check him. Tyler stayed up all night with Madden and I slept for two hours and then woke up to go teach my early morning class.

Wow, it was a stressful night. Madden went back on the nebulizer but, this time with some steroids. Tyler kept saying how he knew our son was going to be big and strong and a pro football player at a young age. Sheesh. Now that it's January and the holidays are over, I can admit that I'm always a little depressed after Jan 1. I miss the family gatherings, the surplus of food, and presents. Yes, I love presents. Who said you can't like a gift after you become a mother? NOT ME!

We had tried to get the grandkids to take a picture for the Christmas card and would you believe it? They all held still! London was so proud to hold Clara during the picture.

She's become quite a photographer. Stealing my camera at all times and taking really....really unflattering pictures of everyone. I have one of my butt that looks absolutely huge. It's hilarious. They she took some pictures of, you guessed it, pictures. At least now I can document what frames I used for what pictures, right?

We did go to our yearly jaunt through temple square.

It was tiring, cold, and short! Ha!

Everyone was so cold that we jetted it out of there right when the massive crowds were coming.

The kids loved the lights despite the cold.

It was Madden that was continually running away and causing us serious anxiety.

We went to my grandparents for Christmas Eve this year.

It's always the same, always my most favorite way to spend Christmas Eve. It's just the best. London and Madden were hilarious.

They were constantly talking about Santa and when he got there they just couldn't leave the poor man alone!

We had a talent show and London was so excited to sing that she would make me practice her song with her since before Thanksgiving.

We slept at my parents' house so that they could enjoy some believers on Christmas morning and for our enjoyment as well. London was a nut that night.

She was up and down, "I forgot Santa's cookies! I forgot to write him a note! I forgot to put food our for the reindeer! I need to eat!" She was a mess. I literally thought she was going to be permanently hyperactive after that night.

She woke up at 3:20 a.m. and went to my parents room. At least this year she went back to sleep in their bed.

Last year London woke up at 4:45 and never went back to sleep. Funny how she never comes to wake me up...probably because Papa is a pushover.

We had to wake up to open presents earlier anyways because we had church.

Tyler and I had to sing in our ward choir and Tyler had a solo.

The kids were awesome.

They loved their gifts and my parents were way too generous as was Ty's mom and Bert. We were definitely spoiled.

By the end of the day Ginger and Madden both collapsed on my dad. They were both so out and so hot, I'm sure my dad was sweating under all of that weight.

Just a couple updates: Madden and Gabe are obsessed with Thomas the Train. They both have little trains at Mimi's and got little movies for Christmas. Madden loves to wear his Thomas shirt (said with a lisp) and watching Mickie Mouse Clubhouse.

London cut Madden's hair. We've been growing it out and it is beautiful and messy most of the time. London decided to cut a lock of his hair and I discovered this only after finding the locks hidden in the bathroom sink...not the garbage for some reason. When I finally got it out of her why she would do that she said, "Because Madden is a boy and he can't have longer hair than me! My hair is beautiful. His hair is handsome...when it's short."

London and Madden have races with his trucks through the kitchen. London has a whistle in her mouth and yells, "One, Two!" and then she blows the whistle. Funny enough, she has to be in front so Madden never wins. He doesn't seem to care though.

Tyler's new business is doing well. He loves his job and is working night and day, day and night to make it a success. I'm proud of him and grateful that he helps out with the kids during some days so that I can teach my classes.

Until next update, have a good January and keep those resolutions!

Catch Up Post Number 2

2011-11-06T18:33:00.000-07:00

Monica and Brad came to bless Clara so that the rest of us could be involved.

It was so fun to have them here. Poor Clara has so many allergies that Monica totally has gone off sugar, peanut butter, dairy, and soy, and happiness. Yes, she is a wonderful mother and I witnessed her sacrifices and...wow.

I think the babes is doing better now. I can't wait to see them over Thanksgiving. I've made a goal for myself for the coming holiday season.

It's been a rough year for me. I've been on a lot of hormone medications because my body was out of whack.

As a result I gained fifteen pounds even though my diet was pretty strict.

It was pretty depressing. Now, my body is regulating somewhat but, even though I'm not where I want to be, my goal is to find an attitude of gratitude.

Yes I said it. I want to find positives in every trial or disappointment I may face. This is my goal. I am very grateful for my family.

When Monica and Brad were here, we went swimming and played games, and just had an overall good time.

What a blessing my family is to me.

My children are amazing. I know they've noticed that Mommy is frustrated sometimes but, they hug me and kiss me constantly.

I don't know any 2 or 4 year old who love to kiss their Mommy, but mine do. I feel like their affection was Heavenly Father's love for me being given through my little angels.

One day Madden decided that he wanted to kiss everyone by licking. It was hilarious.

We tried to get him to use his lips but, I think he could taste my lip stuff and Tyler's salt from his food on our lips. What a goof. Madden also thinks that if he hears a squeaking sound or that somebody passed gas that they "Pookied."

We got a video of it and London loves to watch it over and over. One funny event that happened was I had made cupcakes for our neighbors and put them on the counter by the sink so that Madden couldn't get to them. I ran into the bathroom to finish my hair and decided it was a little too quiet.

I looked out into the kitchen and lo and behold, Madden had gotten London's stool from the bathroom and had somehow reached the cupcakes and was swiping his finger through the frosting.

It was so funny that I couldn't even be mad. What's new with London is that she thinks big boobs are funny. Our little neighbor girl dressed as a grandma for Halloween and she had huge balloons in her moo moo. London laughed and laughed. Speaking of Halloween, our party was hilarious. Unfortunately, my camera died promptly after the party got started.

Madden was Mike Wizowski from Monster's Inc. He kept pointing to the big eye on his chest and would say, "I'm Mike!" London was The Little Mermaid.

I wonder if she'll ever want to be anything other than a princess for Halloween. Tyler and I were upside down people.

We actually just put shoes on our hands, our heads in the pant legs, and our legs in sweatshirts. It looked awesome! My mom goes through such an effort for her parties.

We had a scavenger hunt, prizes, donut eating contest, caramel apples, and pumpkin decoration table, among a few things to mention. It was quite an event. Now that I've caught up on my life and going-ons I'm hoping I can keep y'all up to date:)

Wow, So Much To Say...

2011-11-06T08:45:00.000-07:00

So much has happened the last couple months that I don't even know where to start.

Apparently, I didn't post any pictures of my nephew, Jameson's, birth.

Nor did I post any pictures of my neice, Clara's, baby blessing! What in the world is wrong with me? I can tell you, I got a job. Yep, you are looking at a new Les Mill's CXWORX instructor for Gold's Gym. I went to the training in September and was supposed to go to another training for a different program this weekend, but it was cancelled. It's probably a blessing in disguise though, because I have two broken toes and so many injuries I can't even count.

But, I'm pretty happy with this new occupation because I get my work out in and I don't have to be away from the kiddos any more than normal.

Going back to Jameson and Clara, they are darling. Both are so dang cute. Clara looks like such a great mix between Monica and Brad. Jameson looks just like Trent. I guess that's fair because Gabe looks just like Mandy!

Sorry sis! Mandy had a long labor, but it was successful! No C-section for her this time!

Gabe loves his little brother....so does London...and every other baby. (London told me that Daddy needed to take me to the hospital so that I could get a baby! ha!)

My kids were so upset that they weren't allowed in the back room. At least they got suckers and were rewarded by seeing Mimi. I have to show this one picture of London. Our neighbors, the Bains, had a birthday party for Kyson and kids were supposed to dress up as superheros.

Tyler and I couldn't think of what to put London in so we dressed her as Peter Parker! ha! She was so mad at us later. This summer we were able to see some of Tyler's friends. Tyler has a unique relationship with his friends from college and high school....they keep in touch.

London was playing with one of their daughter's and they found some tutus to dress up in.

Can you tell that they're too small? Ha ha!

It's always good to see Tyler's friends and I love them all! Madden continues to love his Daddy, Papa, and Grandpa Benard.

He sat on Grandpa's lap during his birthday party on Tyler's side of the family.

It was so cute. The kids have loved swimming and going on walks this summer. We met Mimi and Aunt Maddie by the Bountiful Temple to go on a walk.

We walked about a block and I was too hot so we turned back around! Swimming is always fun.

Yes, that's my mother in the kiddie tube in that picture.

It's funny because we would go swimming and all the grandkids love to play with each other

but, Madden.

He's completely content to play by himself all of the time.

Our August tradition is to go to the Boxelder fair for Dean's birthday.

We thought the kids would go crazy over the rides and we were right!

London loved them....Madden HATE!

He didn't even ride the rides and he was screaming at the sheer noise of it all.

We put him in a train with Gabe and he screamed before it even started!

I had to switch him out with London and we were forced to watch her enjoyment from a far.

London loved the carousel,

she loved the slides,

she loved the play ground.

Madden screamed the entire carousel ride.

He was shaking so bad that I didn't even try to put him on another ride.

At least Gabe was calm..er.

I felt horrible!

The rodeo was fun though, but by that point I was too tired to take a picture and just wanted to enjoy the family!

For Labor Day, we went on a hike in Logan canyon with my Uncle David, Danny and Sam, and my mom and dad. It was so beautiful. I loved listening to London sing THE ENTIRE hike.

She was full of her version of why things are the way the are and sang just about everything.

London is hilarious. Lately I've been trying to correct her words in some songs and she said, "MOM, I can sing it however I want.

Don't tell me the words." Okay then. I guess I should be grateful that she prefers her own opinion rather than others. Good confidence, maybe? Anywho, it was a great Labor Day.

We went to eat after at the Old Gris Mill and I, of course, got a delish sandwich. I pick a sandwich any time I splurge on my food.

Yes, splurge. I lOVE them. It was a beautiful hike and a great day with the family. I'll end post one of the day :)

You Want to Know Something?....

2011-09-26T14:04:00.000-06:00

The reason I haven't posted in so long is because I'm overwhelmed with all that I need to post about! Yep, I didn't even write about Madden's birthday or my new nephew OR my new niece! I'm horrible. Monica had a sweet little girl, Clara, who we were able to enjoy just recently. I'll post more about that later.

Mandy had little Jameson and as a result, I had Gabe quite a lot! He and Madden decided the dolly stroller was the way to go. They'd push each other through the house and scream while doing it. Tyler and I laughed so hard...until the stroller broke.

They were both very upset about that. But, Madden got some sweet toys for his birthday!

His grandma gave him some golf clubs that he is just crazy over. He literally does a full swing in our basement and I can hear him from upstairs whacking that ball around.

Mimi gave him a truck that he pushes everywhere and Ty and I gave him the tiniest bike and some guns. We had a little party at my parent's house minus my mom.

Madden was so funny when he got his guns. He immediately started walking like a cowboy. You could tell he felt like a big boy with those guns.

We actually gave him his bike the next day because we didn't get home until later. Madden went crazy! I mean screaming and laughing, he was hilarious.

Even though the bike was tiny, the seat is just a little too high. I guess he'll have to grow into it!

As of late, Madden and London are finally beginning their sibling jealousy. They fight constantly over trucks and cars but, if the other one is hurt, they're quick to comfort. Madden calls London either Lunun or Gicker (sister).

He's been talking quite a bit. If I compliment him on speaking well, London gets a little hurt that I didn't compliment her. Ty and I have to be very aware of what we do with one child, we have to do with the other because they're THAT sensitive.

London even had to have her own picture of her posing on Madden's birthday because we had taken more pictures of him than her. Aw, the future is going to be great :)

Videos from McCall

2011-08-14T16:15:00.000-06:00

Vacation!

2011-08-14T15:46:00.000-06:00

Yes, once again it's been a month since I've posted. Tyler's family was in town the week before we left to go on Vacay.

We had so much food and get-togethers that week that I literally took a time out one night.

I think my sister-in-law took this pic. McCall was fabulous once again. This was seriously a rare time when all of the grandkids got along and all of the parents were pleasantly surprised! The kids were quite funny. My niece, Ginger, also know as a spitfire, refused to be called by her name the whole trip. She wanted to be called, "Purple." So "Purple" is what we called her. She was very consistent, I must say. Monica and Brad had just had the baby before we left, so we were sadly missing them as well as Olivia. Because there was now extra room in my parents' car, we rode up with them. Can I just say two Tylenol PM's and 2 benedryl work wonders. I slept all of the way to Boise and didn't even complain. Tyler was thrilled. I think the kids did well too...hmmm...The first day of arrival, Madeline and I went for a run because we were both sick of being lazy after the long drive. Wow was it gorgeous. I was able to go running every morning and enjoy the gorgeous scenery.

What a great husband I have for holding down the fort and letting me leave him and the kids.

The next day was church and pretty much half of us spent Sacrament in the hallway.

Our family tradition is to drive up the road and take family pictures.

London was torn between taking pictures and wanting to look over the bridge.

In the water were two massive salmons stripped clean.

My Uncle thinks that they were cleaned and then dumped in that water but, that they weren't fished out of there.

It was funny how the best part of that bridge was tossing pebbles into the water for all the kids.

Papa was the coolest man ever because he had all of the rocks!

We went on a couple of new hikes which were awesome.

The first one I carried Madden up and Tyler carried him back.

I have to say there are no complaints from the grandkids.

I'm so proud of all of them!

That's said, they were all exhausted at the end of every hike.

My favorite hike was up to Boulder Lake.

We had a schedule to keep so we were in a bit of a hurry.

My dad and I raced up the mountain (With Madden on my back) and got there in a ridiculous short amount of time.

I was sweating so dang bad.

Fortunately, my little Madden falls asleep easily in his carrier or else I'm sure it would've been a smelly ride for him!

Monday was a jet ski day and Mia and London were able to ride from the dock to our beach with Tyler.

I thought that Madden would love it!

Here I am walking along thinking this will be so fun.

Dean's putting on the wrist band and Madden is acting fine.

We pose for the camera and off we went. No...not so fun for Madden.

As soon as I gunned the engine a little bit he started to scream his head off in complete terror.

He turned all the way around and we ended up returning with him facing me! 0 for 1. So next I took London out...0 for 2.

Apparently she said I went too fast and we hit a wave and she bumped her lip. I guess I'm not the favored driver when it comes to jet skiis. One of the days on the trip, the men let all of us Mother's go out to lunch while they took some of the kids fishing.

Unfortunately Tyler had been sick a day before this venture and as a result, I was pretty sick this day. I tried to enjoy the ladies' lunch, but pretty much sat while everyone ate and shared a bench with Mandy (The preggers) while everyone shopped.

The kids, however, had an awesome time fishing. London caught one and was absolutely thrilled. I love this look on her face.

Even Gabe caught one! I guess Trent just handed him the pole to wave around in the water and he actually caught a fish! So funny.

We went rafting at the beginning of the week and Mia and Luke were able to come.

Mia was on my raft and was so dang cold that if I didn't have to paddle, I had to sit with my arms around her to keep her from turning blue.

We ended up being so cold afterwards that we never took any pictures! Oh well, next year maybe. The canoe day is always a favorite of everyone.

Since we've had so many babies born this year some of the little families have been forced to split whose able to do what and who babysits.

Luckily halfway through our canoe ride there's a dirt road next to the river.

Emily and Mary were able to meet us there and switch with their hubbies so that nobody got left out.

Mandy was a good sport and very pregnant!

We did miss Monica, who had her baby literally right before we left on vacation.

The water was surprisingly chilly even for this time of year.

Last year Mary and I could not let the boys be the only ones who jumped off the rock.

This year we looked at each other and didn't even care about the goading men.

We were not going to freeze to death and didn't care what anyone said!

I think my goal in life is to get a good picture with me and Madden.

I think we literally took twenty pictures of him and me the whole vacation and not one of them is he cooperating!

Grr! I'm glad that this year Madden and London didn't try to jump out of the canoe. Usually I bring barbies and toys but I totally forgot.

Luckily I had massive amounts of food and our kids stuffed their faces the ENTIRE canoe ride.

London did ditch us to ride with Aunt Madeline in her kayak at one point.

She's really letting me know that I'm not that cool.

The last hike we did was to Louis Lake. It was VERY steep.

Ty carried Madden up this time and stayed ahead with my parents while I stayed back to help with the little kids.

I was so glad that I had candy. I kept telling London and Luke that if they'd make it to a certain rock or tree, then they would get one piece of candy. Those kids were amazing.

They were hot, tired, and didn't complain once. They would just eat their candy, ask for a drink, and then go to the next check point. I was so proud.

The lake was gorgeous!

I think it's my new favorite hike. Of course, Dean got in the ice cold water and Luke followed dutifully. I felt so bad because they were freezing the rest of the way back.

On the way down Tyler found a snake for the kids to play with so I continued walking because I had a sleeping Madden on my back.

I passed this little family and they asked if I was Mandy's sister. I said, "Yes, is she okay? Did she have her baby?" They laughed and said that she was still pregnant and sitting in her lawn chair at the trail head.

It was just funny that this family new Mandy's name and then they told me that had passed Camille, my mom, two seconds earlier.

I guess they were reassuring us all that she was okay. Mandy did NOT have her baby on vacation, thankfully. It was such a great vacation. Thank you parents for loving us enough to have us crash your vacation every summer. I love my family.

The Fourth and Family Fun!

2011-07-10T16:52:00.000-06:00

Oh has it been a fun week!

Of course, we had to head to Cherry Hill to get our sun on since Tyler decided to shock me and buy a pass.

It's so fun because Mandy and I go almost the exact same days and the kids love each other.

Madden and Gabe are constantly running away from Mandy and I to head down the slide!

I lost London only once this summer and she said she knew exactly where she was the whole time....yeah, sure. She's still pretty content to be in her own world and play by herself.

Madden plays by himself most of the time as well.

Fortunately, he's okay staying close to Mommy while he plays:)

I put him in bright green water-wings just in case he runs away, which is exactly what he's doing in this picture.

Our good friends Phil and Tiffany usually meet us there too so that their girls can play with London. She's pretty sure that they're her cousins but, can never figure out why. Even when I tell her the girls are just her friends, she refuses to believe or accept that.

Here's Tyler and Phil laying out. Guess who the white one is? ha ha! Just kidding Moby. (No Tyler, that is NOT a fat joke.)

Saturday we went to Eaglewood Golf Course to watch the fireworks.

It's a hike up to the golf course from my aunt's house.

But, the kids love the adventure and the adults all needed to walk off our gluttonous meal.

Mandy and I were pretty concerned about whether or not Gabe and Madden would handle the noise okay.

Surprisingly Madden did awesome...Gabe...not so much.

Madden watched in complete silence and awe while Gabe covered his eyes with one hand. (can I just ask why is it so hard for everyone to look good in THE SAME picture?)

After the fireworks we couldn't find Luke. Frantic and split up, everybody was looking and running around like crazy! They finally found him. Apparently he was wandering around without a care in the world BEFORE THE FIREWORKS!

We lost him and didn't even notice amongst all of the kids! Luckily a woman saw him in front of her house and told him that he was too young to be walking by himself. She asked him to sit with them during the fireworks and watched him until we found him. Thank heavens for good people. Before the fireworks the kids had been playing around and throwing rocks in the pond with Papa....and..uh, Dean and London posed.

My dad was probably the most popular person because he was handing out the pebbles to be tossed. It was actually quite a fun and memorable night even with the fear of losing Lukers.

On the fourth, Maddie and I woke up at the crack of dawn to go running in the mountains.

It was overcast and totally perfect for a morning run. Ty and I were just going to take the kids to Cherry Hill instead of the parade but, quickly changed our minds.

London would have been devastated to miss the parade. I called Mandy, since nobody else in our family could go and luckily her in-laws and set up a place ahead of time.

London, Gabe, and Madden were going nuts on the blow-up slides and that bouncy-thing. In fact, Madden DID NOT want to leave it.

When we finally got him away to watch the parade, he was pretty exhausted.

He ended up sitting on my lap most of the time, but only after he sat in water that was in the gutter. I guess he was hot or something.

I had to undo the buttons on his onesie to let it dry. London was eating candy like a machine but, Madden wouldn't even have it.

He was just so tired. It was a great Fourth of July and ended with a great BBQ and the grown-ups.

I love when a holiday goes well!

Stories of Hilarity

2011-06-29T17:10:00.000-06:00

Wow, are my kids funny. London has been coming up with the best lines lately. We've actually had quite an entertaining week! London asked me to tell her a story about animals. I began by telling her that once upon a time all animals were best friends.

Then I had to tell her about the Fall of Adam and went into that story. I got to the part where they were making leaves to cover their nakedness and London said, "Mom, are you almost going to say, 'the end' yet?" I said, "No, is this boring to you?" She said, "No, but this story is really weird. They were naked!" I told her that they were innocent and had minds like Madden.

They didn't know that they were naked. She gave me a bored stare that clearly said that she thought I was full of it. After a minute she said, "The end." and she walked away. That was that! Later that week she asked for another story. I said, "Do you want to hear about Adam and Eve again?" She said, "Let's not tell that story ever again, Ok?" Okey dokey! London is also learning about technology, thanks to her little friends. She asked me this morning in the car on the way home for the gym if she could have a DS. I had to think for a minute and then I said, "You mean like a Gameboy?"

She rolled her eyes and said, "No, like a DS!!!!" Nope you can't have one. She started to cry and I started to laugh! ha ha! After she got settled down and was eating lunch with Madden, London asked me, "Mom is their a mysterious beyond?" Totally confused, I asked her to repeat herself about four times. Finally I assumed she'd heard something like that from a sci-fi cartoon or something. I finally answered, "I guess there's a mysterious world beyond this one and we call it heaven." She said, "I'm not talking about heaven...you just don't understand." Okay, I guess I don't. What four year old asks about a mysterious world beyond?!!! Madden has had some funny moments too.

He's been quite a handful and frequently tests the waters to get me angry. Today he pushed our fertilizer spreader half-way down the block while I was watering flowers. After I saw him and started chasing after him, he dumped the spreader and ran in the middle of the road and just stood there! He had the most naughty grin on his face. Monday I was getting ready for Cherry Hill and I heard complete silence from him. Oh no, he's doing something bad.

I finally found him almost sound asleep in the office chair. He smiled and cooed a little when I got the camera out. I love those little moments.

My last funny story involves me and Ty. Tyler had the flu pretty bad on Monday. He'd been throwing up all day and was pretty much stuck in bed. I came home for Cherry Hill and was trying to take care of him, the kids, clean the house, and fix dinner at the same time. In a hurry to put away the clean laundry, I literally ran right into the couch and broke my toe. I realized it was bad when it was facing the wrong direction. I yelled at Tyler to come set my toe in place and my hero ran in to help me. Problem....he passed out in the family room right in front of me.

Then he crawled to bathroom down the hall and puked his guts out. When he was finished there, he literally crawled back to our bed with periods of just laying on the floor during that journey. I was left with overlapping toes and Madden concerned with his crazy mommy laughing her head off while clearly in utter pain.

It was hilarious. I finally just had to pop my toe back in place myself. Tyler heard the pop and my yell but, other than that he was pretty much out. Don't worry, Tyler is feeling much better today...my toe however will feel much better in six weeks! That's all for now! Ta ta!

Here's a video for Tyler's stepdad that Ty never posted for Father's Day! Blame him! Happy Father's Day, Bert!

Madden's taste of lemon

2011-06-11T14:59:00.000-06:00

Wow, has it been a while!

2011-06-11T13:03:00.000-06:00

I guess I forgot to post about Libby's farewell!

Get ready for some very real, emotional pictures. Libs did awesome on the day of her farewell. She was so funny giving her talk and I'm sure everybody loved it. I ran to Mom's right after Libby's talk to go get the food ready.

Oh...my....goodness....there was so much food. It was all delicious.

Almost everybody was so stuffed after eating as much as we could that lounging around for the afternoon was mandatory.

There's Libby writing her thank you notes. Tuesday we had a dinner before Libby was set apart. We were there late and ended up giving the kids baths there. You can see how tired we were.

Wednesday came quickly for Libby to leave.

Mandy and I decided to run over and say one last good bye.

Poor Libs was having such a rough day. (These pics are from Tuesday night but, they're not that different from Wednesday's emotions)

You can tell by these pictures how hard it was for her to go.

Mandy and I were very good at holding it together until the garage door closed. Then we each had our own tearful moment for our sweet sister, Olivia. Madden and Gabe could not understand why the life was being squeezed out of them over and over again. Libby said, "These boys are going to be all grown up when I get back!"

I said, "It's true...Madden already has a unibrow and a mustache." We laughed because he really does! But, I can see why Libby was sad! Well, the weekend after Olivia left, Mom and Dad went to France with some friends and I think it was a good thing. Mom probably would have bawled for three weeks straight if it wasn't for the distraction. We visited Madeline during that time.

Consequently while visiting her Madden decided to have a lemon and loved it! He did the most hilarious face every time! Mary also had her baby while the parents' were gone!

Meet my sweet new nephew, Brigham Lewis Simmons.

Maddie and I went in to see him while Ty stayed in the lounge with our kids.

They weren't allowed back in the hospital rooms.

The proud Papa eating his hospital dinner. I couldn't tell if he liked it or not.

We've had a busy "family time" month which is always a good thing. We had a Sunday dinner at Ty's sister's house.

It's always good to see his side of the family and I think Tyler needs that time to see his siblings. McKinley and Madden are such cute cousins.

They rode the rocking horse together until Madden rocked a little rough. McKinley then laid on the couch by London and tried to imitate her relaxing state.

So cute! Well, I think that's it for the update for now. Until more babies are born, that is! Adieu!

Isn't it Weird....

2011-06-01T14:28:00.011-06:00

that two totally different looking people could produce this? and this? My best friend in the whole world, Abong Bain, took our family pictures for us. She is awesome. I was so grateful she thought of bringing a parasol for London to be distracted with. Madden was so terrible. Not only was I embarrassed but, unbelievably frustrated. I wanted to curl up in a ball and cry my eyes out because both kids were being so difficult. I'm so glad that Bong was patient and took a million pictures. Check her photo blog out here. It's called Just a Crush Photography and she's great! I felt relieved that we at least had one photo where we were all looking at the camera. I can check that off my list until next year! Woo hoo! Just for fun, check out my little geek. I don't know why he's been smiling like that lately but, it cracks me up!

Goodbye Libs!

2011-05-20T11:33:00.019-06:00

My sister Olivia has left on her mission. I'm so unbelievably proud of her. This was not an easy decision to make, but once she made it, she was committed. Her leaving is partly why I haven't posted in so long. I've been trying to get in as much time with her as possible. This may have to be in two posts because I haven't even uploaded my pics from Libby's farewell! Oops! (Look at my sweet boy.) For some reason, the last couple weeks have been exhausting. I couldn't really tell you why, but they have been. Ty usually lets me sleep in a couple minutes longer than him every day. But, one morning we took Madden into bed with us and he actually fell asleep! Fortunately I got a picture of my cuddlers. Whenever I get Madden and bring him to bed with us, he immediately shoves me away and turns to his daddy. He loves Ty. I can't say that it makes me feel that great! The kids spend a lot of time looking out the window since it has been raining so much lately. In fact, I've found many lost sippie cups behind the blinds! Madden and London still love eachother and have taken to dancing with one another at any available moment. The problem is that when Madden gets bored, he squeezes the crap out of London! It's quite funny. Madden and Gabe are best friends. When it's dinner time, they both eat. When one gets their diaper change, so does the other. They're really like twins...except Gabe can be photogenic whereas Madden refuses to cooperate...and London. My parents' cut down a ton of trees in their backyard and laid a new driveway through the side gate. We all thought it would be fun to get all of the grandkids handprints in the cement. We came right after the gym so I was still in work out clothes. Madden was terrified of the big cement truck and hid behind my legs. London was more fascinated with it than anything. We ended up having to wait a couple of hours for the cement to set a little before we could print our hands. Maddie and I decided to go running and Madden played outside with the snow shovel while the other kids ran around him. Finally, we got to the handprints. Mia wrote her own name. Luke was second and Ginger was third. London argued about doing it herself but, finally let me help. Madden did okay at best. Sam did great. Gabe did poorly on the first try so Mandy had the cement guy smooth it out. She redid it and it didn't go so well again. Poor Mandy. Ellie left her hand mostly in a fist but, that's to be expected of a newborn. I love these memories the kids are creating. Speaking of memories I have to remember what the kids have said this week. Madden called a sucker a "cucker". London screamed her head off at Charlie and the Chocolate Factory (we won't be watching that for a while.) She asked me why the girl turned into a blue monster. Go figure. I'm totally pulling a blank right now, but I'll write down the funny stuff for the next post. Adieu!

Happy Mother's Day!

2011-05-08T09:25:00.002-06:00

To all of the wonderful mother's in our lives: We love you and wish you a Happy Mother's Day. Since Ty's mom lives in England, this post was made specially for her. We love you and miss you. We can't wait to see you again soon!

Easter!

2011-05-01T08:09:00.020-06:00

I can't believe Easter has come and gone already. It was, as always, a good party at my parent's. Everybody brings a basket filled with something for people to grab in addition to all of the hidden eggs. I made cupcakes with chocolate nests on top! Problem was we had like seven desserts AND all of the candy from the eggs. That night I said to Tyler, "I've eaten so much crap I feel like I'm going to throw up." He said, "me too." But, when he said that I realized he was eating something. I turned around and he was emptying a BOX of skittles into his mouth. He looked at me and said, "What? It's too late now!" Ooookaaaay. I guess it was in his mind! The hunt was good fun. I missed Deaner and Monica since they couldn't be there. But, Mary and the kids came so the cousins were all together! It's so funny to watch them together. They really do love each other. So many times I'll listen to London and look at her and I think, "Wow, she looks exactly like Mia!" It's great how close they are. I left the kids at my mom's the other day so that I could get an extra workout. When I came to pick them up, I arrived to a sad sight. My parent's had finally cut down those gorgeous trees in their backyard. I was sorry to think that the Easter egg hunt was the last time the grandkids would be able to enjoy those monsters. At least Mom and Dad's house will be safer. Those trees would have taken out the entire back of the house if the right storm had come along! Our little family is doing great. Madden is so dang loud! He screams higher and louder than London. If she's singing, he sings louder. It's always a competition to that little boy. He loves things. Madden carries around the snow shovel in the backyard every time he goes out. He HAS to have something in his hands to use as a tool. It's become the biggest joke to my family. In fact, my mom hides her vacuum in the garage because he can plug it into the wall and starts sucking up who know what! Lulu is still a great big sister. The other morning she was acting up and had a serious attitude. On the way home from the gym, I was talking to my mom and she said she would talk to London. She asked her, "Are you being my sweet London? Are you being nice and loving to everyone around you?" I was watching London in the rear-view mirror and she was obviously having an inner battle on what to confess to. She finally said, "Weeellll, not esactly(That's how she says exactly)....I've been having a little bit of an attitude." Mom thought that was so funny and I was so proud that she confessed instead of saying that she was being perfect! I had also made bunny rolls for Easter Sunday that didn't exactly turn out. London was kind enough to tell me, "Mom, those don't even LOOK like bunnies." She said it very seriously and almost like she was talking to a child. Clearly, in her mind, it was like me coloring outside the lines! Oh well, I did try on those darn bunnies whether anybody else appreciated them or not! I hope you all had a great Easter! I know we did!

Finished Projects.

2011-04-17T09:23:00.020-06:00

Well, let me do an update on the family first. London is getting so tall and thin! She wears size 5 or 6 in little girls and I'm amazed at how her pants keep shrinking in length! London is obsessed with babies. She loves her new neice, Ellie, and asks daily for a little sister...still. Poor child. She held Ellie for a long time during General Conference, and was so proud of herself! I finally finished the bathroom where London ripped the towel rack out of the wall. I put on a mesh patch, covered it in a joint compound, sanded, and repeated! I picked a blue-grey paint for the bathroom and love it! It was such a relief to get it done! Here's a before shot. And the after. That was my first project. My second project for the week was filling that urn I had painted and glazed. Wasn't it so ugly before? I filled it with styrofoam balls and squares. I then cut my faux flowers with wire cutters and packed them in the styrofoam. Voila! Not bad for about $10! That was my project numero 2 for the week. Saturday, Ty had to go to a court of honor, so I took the kids to my parents. They were babysitting Gabe so we all decided to go to the park. It was hilarious. London was in her own world and didn't really need any help or too much attention. Madden was dangerously fearless and launched himself down every slide before I could even get to him! Gabe was slower and more leisurely about the park. He was definitely a little nervous at the slides. Unlike Madden, Gabe actually would stop and take a picture. Madden wouldn't even stop for two seconds! Seriously that's the best he would do! We went to swing afterwards and Madden would squeal whenever I'd go up! He's become such a loud child. He says, "uh, DOO, AAAHHH!!!" for "one, two, three!" He knows that when you get to three something exciting happens. What a goof. London loves to comb Madden's hair. They frequently spend time in the bathroom for her to put barrettes in his hair and he gets to put his toothbrush under the water while she does it! They love each other. Nothings better when you have children whose best friend is each other.

Post Two for Today: Just Some Videos

2011-04-02T11:58:00.003-06:00

What's New?

2011-04-02T11:12:00.027-06:00

Yes, I'm really that behind...again. Lots has happened in the last month. Tyler had a fab birthday. We celebrated his birthday on Sunday but, then we had to do it again Tuesday just so we could eat another cake. Both of our kids fight over licking the bowl, but this time it was ridiculous. Every time I looked at Madden he was messier and messier. This is actually him trying to steal back the knife that I had cautiously taken away. Obviously, he doesn't get enough danger or chocolate at home. He has really come into his personality. Madden is loud. He's constantly yelling, singing, or speaking gibberish. He loves to grab his and London's bathroom stool or my little chest to reach things. In fact, Madden is regularly on the kitchen counter and scaring me to death! I've also caught him on top of the piano and sitting on the computer screen to name a few. Madden and London are still best friends for which I'm extremely grateful. They had a new game the other day of sitting on a snow shovel and Aunt Madeline was running with them. Madden thought it was the funniest thing ever. He laughed and laughed. Mom and I were just enjoying the sun for a short while. I really wish it would just get warm already! Madden is still getting into every drawer that he's not supposed to be in. Oh, and he's still obsessed with the vaccuum, broom, and mop. I totally forgot to post about my new little neice, Ellie! Danny and Emily had a beautiful (tiny) little girl! London has been begging me for days for a little sister. I said to her, "If Mommy and Daddy do decide to have another baby, we can't choose if it's a boy or a girl. We have to take whatever God gives us." She thought for a second and said, "God would give ME a girl!" Well, I tried to explain it to her. It seems like I'm always trying to explain so many things to her and so many times, she tells me the "truth". She is such a character. I think her lines make me laugh daily. I told her that Ty and I were going on a date last night and she said, "HOW DRAMANTIC!" I said, "You mean romantic?" She said, "No mom, I said dramantic, OK?" Okay then. London is my biggest helper. She really does do her chores and makes her bed without me asking. I think this is partly because she's OCD and the other part is that she takes pride in being a hard worker. I don't think I could have any more children if it weren't for another little Mother around to help. London's hair is getting better in some areas and thinning in others. She's a very high strung child and I work hard at keeping her stress levels down. The smallest thing can cause her to panic. For example: If she sees a spider, she screams as if it's her life in danger. Then she sobs uncontrollably and will not touch the ground. In fact, I picked her up one time and I tried to put her back down. No can do. She wrapped her legs around me and slid all the way down to my feet so that she wouldn't touch the ground. I feel bad for my little angel. She made a huge hole in the wall while swinging on the towel rack. I heard a little voice from the other room calling, "mooom,.....Moooomm....I broke something." And yes she did. London felt so horrible. Like a typical child, she wasn't worried about the wall, she was afraid whether I was still mad at her or not. Now the towels are residing in the bathtub and we are trying to wait for the patch in the wall to dry. At least I get to paint my bathroom a different color, right? London is somewhat aware of her hair loss and brings me her medicine so that her hair will be thick. London does find happiness in little things, however. Mandy is pregnant with a boy, Monica is pregnant with a girl, and Mary is pregnant with a boy. London thinks this is the greatest year because she gets all of these cousins! This is her cause of happiness most days! Tyler's job is doing great and I'm so grateful to have him home. Life is good to us.

Birthday, Anniversary, and Other Delights!

2011-03-06T08:21:00.009-07:00

London's birthday was a fun day. I took her to Tangled to take her mind off of her hair situation. It was so fun just to have a little one on one time with my girl. I think she needed the distraction to be quite honest. She picked her cake which was deliciously chocolatey and actually had ice cream in the batter! You heard me! It was awesome! I then picked up some pizzas and we went to Mimi's to have a party. For some reason, all she wanted was a Pillow Pet. Luckily my mom got her a lamb and she was thrilled. She's named it, "Juju." No clue why. I also got her Fantasia and she's been calling it "Alotasia." Sounds like Alopecia doesn't it. Funny girl. The steroid foam is working well for stimulating hair growth. As of now we're just going to continue that. I did have to call the Dr. and ask how her labs turned out. I was so bugged that they didn't even call me and she had the suggestion of low iron! So we had to go back to have more blood work to see if she was anemic. I was really hoping that was it because that would have been the cause of her hair loss. But, no, she was okay. They said her iron levels just must have been low that day. Madden is really starting to talk. Whenever Madden is sad or angry, he dramatically falls to his knees. It's hilarious. He loves to watch his sister and tries desperately to copy her. He even brought me an elastic after I had done her hair and wanted it in his hair! Ty and I also celebrated our fifth anniversary this last week! Crazy how five years flew by. But, the biggest occasion was that Olivia went through the temple yesterday! Lib is going on a mission to Chile and we are so proud of her! It was an awesome day to be with the family. I love you all! Now I have to go to church and be the sub in nursery. Yay.

Happy Birthday London!

2011-02-16T11:57:00.004-07:00

I can't believe my little girl is four now! She's been asking when her birthday is for months. This morning she woke up Tyler by whispering, "Daaad...Daaad....You didn't even wish me 'Happy Birthday'". I'm pretty sure she didn't sleep last night. We have a fun-filled day and I will post about the festivities later. I just wanted to give a shout out to my little helper. I love you Lou! Here's a little video of the day she was born...wow, this takes me back.

A Diagnosis and A Handsome Boy.

2011-02-13T08:09:00.010-07:00

I'll begin this post with the conclusion of London's hair issue and pictures of Madden in his new suit. We took her to a specialist last week and he confirmed that she has Alopecia Areata. Her blood was tested for Lupus (Apparently Lupus patients lose their hair in her same pattern) and her antibodies will show whether or not she will lose ALL of the hair on her head. The doctor didn't think it would be Lupus or that it would be Alopecia Totalis (Which is the entire head and face hair loss). So, for now we are grateful that it is what it is and not worse. London was so great. She didn't even cry when they took her blood. Afterwards I asked her what I could get for her and she wanted a bagel from Albertson's and a special drink from the gas station. (That's a fountain drink) She's handled it all really well but, is basically clueless as to what's been going on. She has a steroid foam we put on the bald spots and that should stimulate some hair loss. On a happier note, our family went to the BYU basketball game last Saturday. It was so fun! Madden actually fell asleep in my arms. He's such an angel. London was up and down the bleachers with Mia, only coming to me for M & M's. It was fun to be with the family and I had a great time. It was impossible to get a great picture however. I will close this post with a fun video of the kiddos. I was in the study and I heard them laughing hysterically. I grabbed the camera and caught Madden in his teasing moment! He's such a goof!

Do you love my princesses?

2011-02-04T22:32:00.002-07:00

Me too. Madden has an obsession with shoes now....and apparently barrettes.

What a pretty boy. Ty's going to kill me.....

London Update.

2011-01-26T08:33:00.002-07:00

London went to the pediatrician yesterday. She has had her blood drawn and they're checking for thyroid problems. He said it was unlikely that she had thyroid issues because her remaining hair would be brittle and it's not. We have an appointment with a dermatologist in a couple of weeks to see what he says. The pediatrician said it very well could be a form of Alopecia that he's not familiar with. London was such a good sport having her blood drawn. On the way home I asked her if she'd like an ice cream cone or a kids meal for being so good. She said, "No, I just would like a tortilla with cheese when we get home." What a funny gal. Wish us luck for the next appt. and I'll keep you posted!

Bowling Night!

2011-01-23T09:02:00.010-07:00

Friday night, Ty and I decided we really need to take the kids out and have some fun. London has had a hard week and we wanted to have the least stressful time we could think of for her. London has been losing her hair in some spots for a while now and we've been VERY worried about her. She has every sign of Alopecia but, until we get in to her pediatrician, we won't know for sure. It's been a lot of sleepless nights for me worrying over her vanity. I don't think she's quite caught on to how much hair she has lost but, until then, we're going to try and distract her from her hair. So, bowling was a great solution! We walked into Boondocks and the kids' eyes just lit up. London ran around saying, "I want to play that...and THAT!" Madden immediately ran down the lane and we had to go chase after him. He fell promptly on his padded bum. A worker ran over and said, "I'm SO sorry!!! Does he need ice?" Uh....no..he's a one year old. All he does is fall on his butt. London was beside herself with how much fun she had. Every time somebody would bowl, Madden screamed so loud and long. Ty and I couldn't quit laughing at him. He did run away the whole time and would press other people buttons on their monitors. Some days Madden is just more than I can handle! After bowling, we let the kids go on a tiny carousel. London thought it was fun at first, but then I'm pretty sure she got bored. Madden was unsure of the thing the whole ride. He had a death grip on me and kept looking at me like, "Get me down, Mom!" It was a good night and we'll have good memories from it. Please say a prayer for my little London and her hair. She loves her hair and I can only imagine her despair if it all falls out.

Wanna See My New Table?

2011-01-19T08:34:00.006-07:00

Isn't she cute? Thanks Mom. Update for the family: Madden has found his belly button. He's in to everything and drives me nuts. He loves anything with buttons and still obsesses over the vacuum and brooms. Instead of calling my parents' "Mimi and Papa" he says, "Mimi and Peepee". London is a 30 year old going on 4. She constantly wants sparklies on her eyes and loves any make up. She's pretty obedient and does her chores so she can watch a movie. Love those kids!

Week AFTER Christmas Recap!

2011-01-09T12:41:00.018-07:00

Okay, this is post numero 2 for the day because I have so much stuff to write about. The week after Christmas Monica and Brad came out to visit. I love it when they're in town because every night is a party. Unfortunately Bradley was sick the whole time. But, good news was that they were our Pixie's and sent mom a box of gifts to give us during the month of December. I had no idea it was them! The day before Christmas Eve I got rear-ended and realized that my license was expired! Ty and I both decided to go renew our licenses the next week. While we were gone doing that the whole family went sledding. I guess Madden screamed the whole way down the hill. We finally got him to lay around in the sled and he let us drag him around. For some reason, I think he became scared of Dean because he's the one that took him down the hill! London, on the other hand, had such a grand time that she refused to come in with everybody else. Dean ended up staying outside with her for an extended sledding session. She finally came in when it was dark outside and she was freezing cold. I'm sure Dean was just as cold! My mom was kind enough to buy both of our kids snowsuits and boots after this excursion! We all went in to eat dinner after freezing our tushies off outside. Good thing Tyler called my dad to buy two extra pizzas just in case there wasn't enough to go around. Guess what, they're were two entire pizzas left over. I'm sure that's the last time my dad's going to listen to Tyler's frantic suggestions over food. I think the very next night my parent's watched all the grandkids so that all of their kids and their spouses could see "True Grit." It was so fun to be out with the siblings without the stress of children. Fortunately since half the women are pregnant in our family, (Not me, don't even ask.) they were all feeling well enough to go! New Year's Eve was spent at my parent's with London, my mom, and dad asleep in the same bed by 10:00 p.m.. The only people left awake were Tyler, Brad, and myself. We ended up playing Texas Hold 'em until midnight and missed the ball drop entirely! I've realized that I'm a terrible poker player. That was the last time I play that game with fruit loops! New Year's Day we went to a hotel where Ty's mom had gotten a room. I guess you could get a conference room only if you rented a room for the night. So, we had a birthday breakfast for Grandma Benard, and Ty took the kids swimming. Madden was so exhausted that I finally just held him in my lap while the Ty and Lew swam. Bad idea, he peed all over me. But, at least he was comforted. I finally rocked him to sleep and he slept in his stroller in the conference room whilst the rest of us played games. What good kids we have. After two weeks of staying up late, missing naps, gorging on goodies, and lots of family time, our kids were in reasonably good spirits. They're still recovering from all of the activities. Madden has been so beat that yesterday he totally zonked out in his high chair during lunch! London used to do this daily! Here's a picture of her so long ago! Well, today before church I decided to put good use to those snow suits my mom bought the kids while I shoveled. They were hilarious. Madden looked like Randy from "The Christmas Story." He could not walk at all in those boots. London was thrilled to be outside. I think they've been pretty cooped up lately. They even got rakes to help me out. But, now, both kids are asleep, London got a fever and Madden isn't feeling so hot either. Now I'm wondering if our morning shoveling was a good idea! I'll learn one of these days! I'll just say, that I was ready for the festivities to be over and get back to a normal schedule!

Christmas Recap!

2011-01-09T11:39:00.027-07:00

Wow, this is going to be a long one and I'm ashamed I'm so far behind. Last year my New Year's resolution was to post once a week. Apparently I'll be repeating that goal yearly. This has been a really busy, fun, fattening, and exciting last month. Ty's mom has been in town and we've been able to spend some good time with her and Grandpa. The week of Christmas Tyler surprised me with this: Well, not this exact one but, the picture I took would not load up! I was shocked. I had no idea. All of a sudden my mother-in-law, father-in-law and his son, and my mom showed up at 8 at night! I thought, "What is Tyler up to?" Next thing I know I'm forced into my bedroom to sit and wait. When I was finally allowed to come out I saw my brother, Dean, my Dad, Ty, and our friend Phil. To be quite honest, I was embarrassed with all the attention but, extremely grateful. Apparently Phil pretty much carried the piano into my Dad's trailer himself. Ty said we should have just strapped the thing to his back and it would have worked just as well! It was such a good surprise. London saw it the next morning and her and Madden pounded on it all day. London asked me, "How did Santa get that in his bag?" I said, "He has a really big bag!" She paused and said, "Not THAT big, MOM!" I just laughed and didn't say any more! She also calls the Piano the "Play Plano." Christmas Eve day was spent at the gym, then the movies to see "Tangled" (thanks to grandma and grandpa Whipple), and then we headed up to my grandparents. Already, we were tired but, London was so excited to see Santa. I think she was preoccupied the entire day focusing on that. We got way too many presents and ate way too much food. There was a program by grandma and of course, a talent show. I'm still kind of bugged all of the men wussed out of doing ANYTHING! Santa came and scared Madden and Gabe to death. London, however, was very pleased to be on his lap! By the time we left Madden was out for the count and London was still wired over the arrival of Santa! We told her a passing plane in the sky was Santa's sleigh. We said he goes so fast that his sleigh looks like it's on fire! She had an amazed look on her face and said, "Santa's sleigh looks just like an airplane!"...Yeeesss, it does, doesn't it? We spent the night at my parents. We say every year that we won't do it again, but this year my parents' don't have one "Santa Believer" in the house. Therefore, we had to go and share in the fun! Our kids were up at 4:30 a.m.!!!! London was so excited she woke up Madden, then Ty and I got up, THEN my parents got up to take London. She got in bed with them and Madden got in bed with us. None of us slept. Finally we got up around 6:00. The kids were wired. Madden played with Papa's golf clubs until we finally went downstairs. London received a bike for Christmas. She was so happy. Unfortunately, she could not ride the bike and look up at the same time. So she'd run into the cabinets and tip over because she was trying to watch her feet pedal. I was pleased to receive a sewing machine from my parents and a white side table for the family room. Yes, I am wearing a plaid, flannel nightgown! What's it to ya! After a quick jog with Madeline and breakfast with my family we headed down to Grandma's to see Ty's family! By this point, London was so exhausted and moody as was her little brother. I finally rocked Madden to sleep and put him in the other room on a couch. London got a bike helmet and kneed pads from G and G Whipple for Christmas and Madden got some sound books. They loved them!We usually play games and stuff Christmas Day night, but Tyler was so exhausted we headed home around 7:00 p.m. and went straight to bed! What a day! That in a nutshell was our Christmas day!

Thanksgiving, Family, and The Zoo!

2010-12-11T07:17:00.027-07:00

I think that's everything I need to post about since I'm shamefully behind. The day before Thanksgiving, my mom called to say that we should have a little get together to play games. I thought, "Okay, this is always fun. Let's do it!" She also mentioned under her breath that she had a surprise. I assumed this meant she made me some chocolate temptation or that my birthday present had arrived. So, we arrived at the "party" with all of my siblings. Dean and Mary with their kids, Mom and Dad, Mandy and Trent and their little boy, Libs and Maddie, Danny and Emily and Sam, and....Monica. Oh yeah, did I mention my surprise was Monica!!!! Her and Madeline kept it a secret that she was coming. I guess it was snowing and Mad told mom and dad that she had to pick up a friend from the airport. They DID NOT want her to drive in that weather, so mom went with her. I guess she was tearfully surprised to see Monica there! Everybody was shocked to see her. Except Madden played with the vacuum the entire time she was here. It was so fun to have her. Of course, we missed Brad as he spent Thanksgiving in Cali. I'm pretty sure we went to my parents' every night to see her. Fortunately, they had enough food for us to mooch on for dinner as well! Thanksgiving was too much! I gained two pounds, Tyler gained five pounds, and his work out buddy at the gym....16 pounds! We have not gotten over that! In addition to our gluttonous weekend, we were able to put up our Christmas decorations. London was so excited that she bounced around the house during the entire process. She is such a crack up. Our kids are growing so fast. The other day London was begging for wet wipes. She's slightly OCD and I know that she hates any tacky feeling on her palm. I told her absolutely no more wet wipes and shut the bathroom door on her because I had to go! A second later I yelled, "LONDON!!! WHY IS THE TOILET SEAT STICKY!?!" She calmly stated, "I was trying to tell you. I need a wet wipe because Madden grabbed a banana and wiped it on the toilet seat." I felt thoroughly chastised and laughed at the whole thing! Her and Madden are still best friends and usually partners in crime. I have had to take all of the ornaments off the bottom of the tree because Madden tears them off, and London will rearrange them! Both kids are in a jumping phase. They'll say, "One, two, three, JUMP!" London will actually get off the ground whereas Madden does a full squat and stands quickly up. It's so anti-climatic but, hilarious. Tyler's mom and step-dad are in town from England so Grandma and Grandpa Barnes took everyone to the zoo! I had no idea they did lights and Christmas decorations. I believe they even had Santa there but, there was a 45 min wait. No Thanks! You can't tell, but there's a reindeer in the background of this next pic. London was so excited the entire time. Her and I were running every which way trying to get in everything we could. Ty had a good time playing with his cousin's kids as well as all the other kids! He's such a child! At the beginning, Madden was kind of grumpy. He'd eaten an entire kid's meal so you'd think he would be happy. Nope, he was kind of stoic and mopey. I even gave him a kiss, and he ignored me. Once we got into the park his eyes went huge! He even tried to grab the lights and bite them! We saw snakes, crocodiles, a reindeer, bugs, etc. But, the best were the tigers! There were four of them circling around this bridge. At one point a tiger went right up to the glass where Tyler was holding Madden. It steamed up immediately and terrified little Madden and me! I'm pretty sure that Tiger saw Madden as a snack! The zoo was a fun time. Here I leave you with a video of our jumping children. Enjoy!

Time Flies

2010-11-23T15:15:00.012-07:00

Wow, my kids are growing right before my eyes. (FYI, this whole post's pictures are basically of Madden playing with the vacuum.) I can't even say how hilarious, joyful, and humbling being a parent can be. London is full of her new words and observances. She laughed hysterically the other day by herself. Tyler and I were totally confused and asked what she was laughing at. She said, "Madden's bum is tangley!" We were again confused until Ty said, "Do you mean Madden's bum is dangley?" She laughed and laughed. I guess she's discovered differences in boys and girls but, apparently those differences are identified as "bums." We could not quit laughing. Madden is getting to be such a little boy. I took him to his fifteen month check up and his weight was in the 50th percentile, height in the 70th and his head.....96th! I had no idea he had such a huge head. I was totally shocked because the last check-up his head was in the 40th. I guess they change really fast. My birthday was yesterday and I had a fabulous day. London and Ty woke me up with a handwritten card from London. He told me later that it was the biggest test of patience! I received some lovely smelling perfume, a purse, a quilt, a chandelier for London's room, socks, a shirt, and shopping spree! Oh, and Dean gave me peanut-butter bars. See! Could that day not be better. After the gym, I took the kids to my Mom's where Madden gave kisses aplenty and played with the vacuum (His new favorite toy. He IS obsessed.) Ty and I went to Harry Potter to enjoy some one-on-one time. It was so fun! He let me shop after the movie and the next thing I knew, it was 7:30 p.m. and my sweet husband hadn't said a word about my excessive shopping! We ended up skipping dinner to go get our kids and my parents. I guess Mandy and Trent had been waiting to wish my "Happy Birthday" but, I took so long shopping! At least they played with my camera! Sweet Gabe and Madden were playing like they were best buds. I'm hoping I'll do better on updating the Thanksgiving festivities! I hope you all remember the most important things in your life and are grateful for every single blessing you have! Happy Thanksgiving!

Happy Halloween!

2010-10-31T12:32:00.015-06:00

I'm pretty sure this is the best year ever for costumes at my parent's party. Everyone looked awesome. I walked into my parents house and saw that Madeline was John Stockton. Unimpressed, I looked at this black stranger and thought, "Oh, that must be Karl Malone.....is that Libby?!!!" Yes, it was Olivia. She looked hilarious and won the ultimate prize. I think Madden was not quite sure whether it was his aunt or a stranger who sounded just like her and vaguely resembled her. I bet you're laughing at her right now just as I am. Mom and Dad were Donny and Marie. London asked my mom who she was an she answered, "Marie Osmond." London said, "Oh! Marie Osmond lost fifty pounds!" There's a sign that maybe she pays a little too much attention to the Nutrisystem commercials! Danny and Emily were spies while Sammy was an elephant. Unfortunately my lighting was really bad in that picture. Sorry guys! Dean and Mary were a caveman and cavewoman. Mia was a firequeen (not the devil). Luke was a Power Ranger and Ginger was a poodle. Mandy was Cleopatra and Trent was Caesar. Gabey was our little bumblebee. Lastly, our little family included London as Mulan, me as a geisha, Madden as a a froggie, and Tyler as a Ute fan. My Dad and brother's were really unimpressed with his costume. His shirt said, "I pored beer on Max Hall's mom." Mom had really fun ideas for the party that just couldn't happen because of the rain. Those plans included s'mores and pumpkin carving. But, everyone was able to dip their own caramel apples in chocolate and toppings. They were sinful. Dinner was delish, dessert was at an excess, and the company was awesome. Even though London only went to three houses, she was thrilled! She thought that her and I were absolute twins. She kept saying, "You look just like me!" Madden was, of course, sensitive and pensive most of the night. I couldn't even get him to smile for a picture! I'm pretty sure this was almost a moment of tears. Almost!

Make up, Costumes, and Trunk or Treats!

2010-10-24T10:57:00.009-06:00

We had a ward Halloween party the other night at the church. London was so excited to get in her Mulan costume and get her make up done. She probably asked me fifty times if she could have her make up on now. Finally, I got her in her costume and her make up (Have you ever put liquid eye liner on a three year old?!) and she looked so dang cute. I put on her make up first because I was concerned I would spill on the costume. I should have thought about smearing make up on her clothes when actually putting the costume ON! Madden was a little frog and a sweetheart. Ty and I were laughing so hard at the pictures we took of London. The party had loads of rolls and soups as well as candy and donuts. I made whole wheat rolls and fortunately they were all gone. I would not want to deal with all of that food. I was, however, able to mooch free donuts and pumpkins post-party! I thought they did an awesome job at the decorations and they had a little carnival for the kids prior to the trunk or treating. London was so silent! She was very subdued and shy walking around. We discovered that she has an awesome arm and aim from the bean-bag throw but, was pretty introverted the whole time. Finally, during trunk or treating she said, "Mom, can you take me home now? I'm tired." Shocked and feeling sorry, I took her home. London started to cough that night and has since been trying to kick this sickness. Poor girl. She had looked forward to it all day and didn't even want to tell me she was sick. Madden seems to progress every week. He teases Tyler by calling him "Mama" and yells "LUNUN!" when London's making him mad. He even lost his temper at me and yelled/growled at me while punching the floor. It was hilarious! Well, that's all folks!

Calculo

2010-10-18T08:11:00.004-06:00

London always has an imaginary pet or friend with her. Yesterday it was a cow named "Calculo." Ty said she was playing with a calculator and maybe that's where she got the name. Seriously, who plays with imaginary cows and names them "Calculo?!" A genius, I'm sure of it.....

Update!

2010-10-10T13:49:00.024-06:00

Wow, have about a million and a half things happened lately. Madden's walking like a champ. He said, "See ya," and "Ba-bye" to me yesterday. London's absolutely hilarious. She says and asks the funniest things. Half of the time I'm in shock and the other half I'm laughing at the maturity and comicality of her statements. I'll get to her specific comments later on...I guess our time lately has been spent walking, swimming at Mimi's, and going to the park. Madden's actually pretty good in floaties and keeps his head up by himself! He loves the pool, as does London. They're my little fishies. I miss Cherry Hill already...sigh....Oh well, next summer I guess. We've been able to babysit Gabe a couple times. It was pretty funny because London was bossing these boys around. At one point I heard her say, "Here Gabe!....Brought to you by....DISNEYLAND!!!" I'm pretty sure the commercial said, "Brought to you by Disney," But, that doesn't matter to her! I went down there and this was the mess I found with the kids playing in the baker's rack. I'm pretty grateful at how much love cousins and siblings have for each other in my family. Unfortunately, Madden and Gabe have had a cold and I was wiping noses like it was going out of style! Madden has taken to climbing and opening everything. He's quite fond of climbing on our glass, round coffee table and crawling around it in circles. Madden also stands up in his high chair and throws his tray. aye, aye, aye! Last Sunday, prior to General Conference, we went on a walk to the elementary school so London and Madden could go down the slides. Madden ate the bark, or course, and basically lounged down the slides on his back. What a character. Okay, now for the funny musings of London whilst looking at the park pics: The other day I lost my phone. I looked for three hours straight! Finally, I asked London, "Louie, do you know where Mommy's phone is? I can't find it anywhere." "Sure, I do. Follow me." She said. I was kind of shocked but, followed her to the basement where she picked up her purse. She flung it on her shoulder, paused, then pulled out my phone (My actual phone) and said, "Hello? Oh yes, she's right here." She handed out the phone to me and said, "It's for you." I was kind of ticked but, amused at the same time. Another funny moment would have to be moments while I'm driving. Some lady cut us off and I yelled, "You stupid lady!" London promptly said, "Mom, we don't say stupid." I agreed with her and apologized. She then asked why I said that lady was stupid. I said, "Because she's an idiot, London, and she doesn't know how to drive." London asked, "What's id-it?" I answered, "An idiot is someone whose not as smart as your mother." She said, "Yep, she is an id-it." When Madden is happy, London says he's being "Smilish." She told Tyler the other night that he was tacky. (No idea where she comes up with some things.) London asks me frequently what words are good or bad. Tyler and I were talking about something and London said, "Mom and Dad....we don't say boobs." Ty and I tried not to burst out laughing so we just agreed and looked straight forward with smiles on our faces. I seriously can't quit laughing sometimes. London has become a cook, a baker, and a decorator. She tells me exactly how to make her lunch, bake cookies, and the other day instructed me on our to decorate our porch. She's just growing way too fast! I'll definitely try to write these things down as soon as they happen because I just forget everything! Until next time!

The Dirty Dash!

2010-09-26T10:30:00.013-06:00

So yesterday I ran the Dirty Dash with some friends. The race is a 10k obstacle course. I know crazy isn't?! It was unbelievably fun. Sorry about the blurry pics. They're from another camera and I couldn't download them very well. Our team was called "Good Girls Gone Dirty." I have to say there were some funny, dirty, and unique team names! I can't even tell you some of them! I started the day with a car not starting. Lucky for me, my friend, Beth, came and got me. This made us late in picking up the other girls. Along with me causing the girls to be late, there was traffic and we were afraid we wouldn't make our heat. We literally got there, our heat left three minutes before us, and we took off! We set an awesome pace, catching up to our heat, passing them, and then finishing as one of the first teams in our heat!We did the whole thing in 1 hr and 10 min! Obstacles and all! You start out running up a muddy (imagine losing-your-shoe kind of muddy) steep hill. It was alot of up hills and fortunately, down hills too. We had to climb over hay bales, walls, crawl through tunnels, run through a marsh, tire-ladder runs, slip n slide, and finish an army crawl through a mud pit. Or I should say sh#! pit because it definitely wasn't mud...It was a blast! We were so filthy. They had ice cold showers at the end of the race. You couldn't even get close to clean. There was no privacy whatsoever and we ended up changing right next to our car. These guys kept honking their horn for us to hurry up because we clearly weren't decent. Oh well! I totally just left my shoes and socks right by the showers. There was no way I was keeping those poo-smelling things! Orbit commercial, anyone?! We ran most of the race with a group of shirtless guys in swim shorts. It was fun to have the competition as well as the encouragement, so Thanks Guys! London was so shocked to see her momma so dirty. Madden wouldn't even look at me! I saw my cousin while running it and even saw my Aunt and Uncle by the finish line! Thanks for Mom, Dad, and Ty willing to come support me. They love me, smell and all! This was the first time this kind of race has come to UT. If they do it again, totally sign up!

So, What's New?

2010-09-08T14:12:00.029-06:00

I'll tell you what's new, my kids are growing faster than I can blink! Madden is starting to stand on his own but, continues to be a coward. He's been such a naughty boy lately! He intentionally spills his milk on the floor and then lays in it. He also broke two ceramic pieces of mine also intentionally. I cleaned the first mess up and he marched right back and broke another one. I almost screamed!!! The other day he was making a mess on the floor with his milk and I was cleaning it up. Next thing I know he's in the lid drawer sucking on long lost bottles. I quickly took a picture and London says, "Mom, there's poo on the floor." I said, "There is not, don't be so dramatic." She just gave me this noble look and replied haughtily, "Then why don't you smell it?" I did. She was right. So I had to frantically pull Madden out of the lids and saw that his diaps was leaking. Eww, right? So then I had to clean him, mop the floors, and wash everything in the lid drawer. See?! He's a stink! London is really funny lately. She thinks she's such a big girl. We went to Crystal Hot Springs with our friends and London only wanted to play with the "Big Girls." Madden was content playing with his little girlfriend, Tate. Oh, to be so easily content. I totally forgot to post about Cherry Hill this summer. Finally, the last week it was opened I decided to take some pictures. London is continually in her own world. Yep, that's her completely alone out in Pirate's Cove singing to herself. She played most of the summer with Cherry Hill friends, but more often than not, by herself. Madden played with Gabe in the water and luckily his sister would bless him with much needed attention. I'm just glad that he would eat for an hour straight in his stroller to give me some down time! It was nice to have my sisters there this summer too. Mandy was such a trooper because she came regardless of the pain in her hands. Luckily, she's had surgery on one so let's cross our fingers and hope the next hand goes well! (I guess I better be careful who I post in their suits now because my brother, Dean, got mad at me. Thanks alot Chase!!!) But, Gabe took his first couple steps yesterday and I was there to witness it! They are getting so big! The other week we went to the fair, as is tradition over Dean's birthday. Tyler and I debated whether or not to follow through with an earlier consequence given to London that day. It was really hard but, we decided to go through with the consequence. This meant that London could go on the rides but, not go to the rodeo. This is also meant that no one else could go. It was definitely an annoying moment in parental responsibilities. But, she did have a blast with her cousins as always, and I got some earrings! I also got to chat with Mary and Maddie while the kids went on the rides! The other day was Mom's and my nephew, Sam's, birthdays! The next day we decided as a family to go on a hike up Logan canyon. Funny thing about that, Ty has been to Logan twice in his life. Once for a wedding, and the second time for a graduation. While on this hike (I carried Madden and he helped London) we ran into the very person whose wedding Ty went to go see. Small world I guess! It was fun to have my Uncle David, Trenton, and my Aunt Sissy and cousin Kara there too. We love you guys! It was a nice hike and we went to a park afterwards to eat lunch. Yep, that's me stuffing my face in every pictures. C'est la vie! That's about it for now! Adieu!

McCall Post!

2010-08-14T14:39:00.051-06:00

I'm finally getting to our vacation! It was probably the best vacation to date. We stayed in an awesome house that was literally alone in a cul-de-sac. The kids were able to run in and out of the house without a care or a worry from a parent. When we got there we took a walk down to the park. Luckily I had Ginger there to help me push an empty stroller. Madden wasn't too impressed with the slides. The next day was Sunday. My mom made the comment that people were probably staring at our huge family and trying to figure out whose kid was who. I really doubt that any child sat by their own family. We later when on a drive and a small hike. Clearly London didn't want to get her pants wet, so she took them off and went in her panties. Madden was such a little trooper in his new hiking backpack! Monday we went on another hike. I carried Madden up in his backpack and Ty carried him down. Unfortunately, I also carried London down because she did the whole hike up by herself. She's such a tough little girl! My little family was so tired that London actually fell asleep in between Luke and Mia while watching a movie. When I tried to find Ty and Madden, I found them also asleep. It was actually a nice little peaceful moment for me. I'll probably mix days together but, we went rafting and to a play for a change from our usual McCall to-do list. Canoeing is always my favorite day. Luckily, our kids tan like me but, get overheated like Tyler. I was glad he put sunscreen on them. Remember how every year London falls asleep between my legs in the canoe with a towel/tent over her? Well, this year it was Madden and my poor little London was tired and feeling neglected. So, we brought Mia in our canoe to play barbies. It was a pretty good deal. I was kind of ticked because all of the men jumped off the rock and there were no ladies doing it. So, of course, Mary and I couldn't stand to be shown up. We were the only girls to do it, and are there any pictures of us? Nope. The selfish men just couldn't bare to have it on record that we did it too! Dumb people! Oh well. It was pretty funny that when Ty jumped, London yelled, "Go Dad!" But, when I went to go jump, she sobbed and was yelling, "Come back! Don't leave me, Mommy!" I'm just going to say, she loved me a little bit more that day! ha ha! We also made several trips to Ice Cream Ally, which might explain partly why we gained five lbs. I'm also guessing that it had something to do with the availability of cookies, candy, and junk food in general. We did, however get to work out every day in the cul-de-sac next to our house doing drills. It was pretty fun but, seriously a mind game to do on vacation. Good for us, right? Anywho, the last day some of us went to the lake. Some of the men went golfing...again. London was completely oblivious to where she was in the lake and got way far out. She didn't even care. Madden continually ate the sand and drank lake water. He loved it too! I'm starting to see that Dean took care of my kids about as much as I did! Oops! Ginger's diaper was so full that we had to take a picture. She waddled like a little duck! Nights were spent playing games and Sporkl on the internet. If you haven't played it, don't. You'll be addicted. My family is awesome. I felt like crying once vacation was over. We look forward to this week all year long and it definitely ended way too soon. London said when we were driving away, "I had so much fun with my cousins on 'acation." Me too, Lewie, me too. Mia, Luke, and London were so funny. They would literally be in hysterics, laughing over anything. It made everyone else laugh. Ginger and Sam kept us entertained by their cute little antics. Ginger is such a stink, she would hide hats and reveal them at her own convenience. It was hilarious. I miss it already. I love you family and can't wait to do this again. You are all my favorite people and I'm grateful for an awesome fam!

Pre-McCall Post!

2010-08-11T11:28:00.020-06:00

Before I post about vacation at McCall, I'm going to have to post about Madden's birthday. We started the week celebrating Uncle Brad's birthday. Apparently, Brad hates his birthday and Monica has several theories as to why. So, we had fun smothering him with attention and did our yearly praise of the birthday boy. This means that everyone around the table says something they love about Brad. I'm pretty sure he hated it. The meal was delicious as always. We were all complaining about the weight we'd gained in McCall. Ty and I gained five, Dad lost two pounds,....and Dean gained ten. I really don't believe it because he didn't look any different. But, way to beat us all Deaner! Monday we went to Cherry Hill with Mary and the kids. London had literally a hysterical time with Luke and Mia. We went up and down the blue slides until Mary and I were starving from the water and hiking the stairs while taking turns carrying Ginger. I'm pretty sure I'm her favorite aunt now...I'm just being honest. It was such a fun day and I really thought, "Okay, a good start for a fun week!" WRONG! Tuesday night Ty and I woke up to Madden screaming. I went in to look at him and puke was everywhere! We ended up taking him to bed with us. Every twenty minutes we'd run him to the bathroom for him to throw up. He was so somber and stoic on his birthday. He wouldn't even eat his birthday cake but, was feeling better. Ty gave Gabe and Madden licorice before the cake so maybe that's why he didn't eat it. For the life of me, I could not get them to look at me or smile at the same time! The sick child was London. She barfed over and over again. She puked in her bathroom, my bathroom, my floor, my tub, and even my bed. Then she puked in buckets because she never made it to the toilet in time. London stayed in the basement the whole party and didn't come up. The whole day she'd say, "I don't want to frow up anymore." I'd feel awful. After two days of not eating I said, "London, Mommy will give you anything to make you feel better. What do you want?" After thinking for a bit she said, "I want you to make me feel better.".....Except that thing. She just couldn't understand why I wouldn't take her pain away. She finally said, "I think I need chocolate." London is her mother's child all of the way! Madden got two cars, an outfit, a tie, a basketball, and a spinning top for his birthday. I'm sure he was really excited inside. I made him a rainbow "smash" cake and for everyone else a chocolate cake with peanut butter frosting for the filling and chocolate buttercream for the frosting. It was so good that I had two pieces....which I puked up the next day. Yep, I got it too. So did Libby, Maddie, and Big Poppa thus far. I'm pretty sure everyone else will get it too. Sorry... Before I forget I need to write some of Madden's firsts: he had salmon and loved it, he says, "kack, kack" for "quack, quack", he can now go down the stairs by himself, and he's starting to stand by himself. He's also obsessed with the dishwasher and the vacuum. London's funny words: "Aunt Mandy's hands are broken but, mine aren't. Daddy's eyes are broken though." (Ty wears glasses or contacts.) "Mom, can I watch a show wear they making something?" (Meaning HGTV) "I need a salad with my lunch because I'm sooo healthy." Hope you all enjoyed this post! I'm trying to always write down the funny things these kids do but, there are so many that I constantly forget!

Tea Parties and fun

2010-08-05T11:54:00.020-06:00

So yes, every year my mom does a tea party and I know you're all wondering what the theme was. This year it was Paris. I was a French Maid, London was a gypsy and madden was Vincent Van Gogh. You can't tell but he's chewing on a paint brush the whole time. Mia was Belle from Beauty and the Beast. Mandy was her version of the pink panther as was her neice, and Gabe was Inspector Cluseaux. Mom, Maddie, and the Grandma's were Parisian ladies with lovely hats. Emily and Mary wore dresses so I guess they thought they were Parisian. (Try again next year, right Mares?!) My mom is so fun to do this for us. We had a little etiquette lesson and a huge spread of food! Everything was decorated with Parisian flair, meaning an Eiffel tower, lanterns hung from the trees, and darling plates and tea cups. Let me give you the menu: Fruit kabobs, peanut butter kiss mini cookies, chocolate cookies, sugar cookies, stuffed mushrooms, bruschetta, mini cheesecakes, olive and pickle skewers, cucumber sandwiches, chocolate covered strawberries, a no-bake pizza, and a delicious punch! Whew! At the end my mom gave the prizes. Guess who won best costume?...ME! My prize was a darling apron that my mom made. Isn't it daring?! I can't remember what Emily's title was, but she got a hilarious shower cap! In a mad rush after the tea party, we ran to SLC to see Ty's family because they were in town. It was good to see his sister and her family and his mom. We miss you and can't wait to see you again! The grandkids are all getting so big! Luckily I snagged some pictures of Ty's sister Becky, Arycca, and Sister-in-law, Tess! Gotcha! I do have to say, Scott's was my favorite picture. Classic. That's probably enough for now but, today is my son's birthday and I have to say, HAPPY BIRTHDAY MADDIE! I'll update on the days festivities and our vacay next time! Adieu!

2010-07-23T12:12:00.007-06:00

Update 2 for the day, I know I'm awesome! We had a family reunion last weekend and Mandy and I were fortunate to be without husbands, thus we drove together. We had no idea there would be so much traffic. It took us an hour and a half to get there, and TWO hours to get home. On the way there we had a much needed potty stop on the side of the freeway with honking cars bumper to bumper. Poor London had no privacy. Then once again on the way home (Even though I took her to the bathroom before we left) we had to stop at a gas station for her to go. She's so funny. She makes friends with everyone and played so hard that she was exhausted and overheated. Look at that red face! At least Mandy and I planned the boys' outfits. We even stuffed them in the same stroller and shared binkie's and sippie's. That seemed to be a high note for a family reunion....

Another Update!

2010-07-23T11:58:00.011-06:00

I failed to wish my sweet nephew, Gabe, a Happy Birthday! That little darling turned one and we had a special party for him. Mandy made him his own little smash cake and we all had hats. He was really unimpressed with his presents obviously, but at least London, Luke, and Mia were happy for him! We got the funniest picture of all the kids and Trent and me holding the little babies. You'd think that Trent and I were a couple or something! Only after we took it did we think that it might look a little strange. Madden was somewhat perplexed at the occasion but, oh well. He got passed around as much as Gabe did. Poor Gabe was so tired but, somehow reached right for his cake and dug in. He's the ONLY child I've ever seen go right to town. I guess we'll have to see how Madden is on his birthday in a couple weeks. Can't wait for that, right?! Anyways, Happy Birthday my sweet Gabriel.

Part Deux

2010-07-18T12:47:00.015-06:00

I guess the good thing about having the Fourth on a Sunday is that you literally have three days of a holiday. So, Sunday was our second celebration. We met Ty's siblings, mom and stepdad, and step-sibs for dinner and early fireworks. Madden really loves my necklace as you can see. London loves her cousins but, McKinley loves to terrorize Madden. She crawled all over him and he'd just lay there and cry. He's already learned that the women are the bosses. It was so funny. We had a delish bbq in Ty's brother's backyard. London was loving the camera and having one on one time with Daddy. She'll tell us, "I'm jealous of you guys." She says this whether we're hugging each other or holding Madden. Clearly, that word has been abused a time or two. London also took way too many blurry and useless pics. At least she got one of mommy and daddy. When we did the fireworks, we did it when it was still light. London, of course, loved them, but this time Madden was not so pleased. He HATED the flowers. Everytime they'd start he'd scream and Ty or I would have to walk away. What a sweetheart. He's such a boy. Madden has started standing on his own and hopefully he'll want to walk AFTER family vacay. It's been a good month of July but, I really am ready to get out of Dodge. Can't wait for the vacation!!!!!

Well, I feel sheepish...Part 1

2010-07-16T12:06:00.016-06:00

Yes, I did it again. I've waited weeks to update. Okay my excuses this time include: Madden teething 5 teeth in a week, fevers and whining, Cherry Hill, my other blog, house cleaning, the gym, the yard, relief society lesson, you get the idea. Okay so I'm going to do better. I'm sorry. THE FOURTH OF JULY Okay, the Fourth, I went hiking/running with my dad and brother, Dan in the mountains. Madden took a nap before Ty met up with me to go to the Kaysville parade. Umm...I think that was the last time I'm going to that one. It was so crowded, so commercialized, and ultimately not fun at all. There was literally a lady stealing all of the candy and putting it in her purse and giving it to her kids. London didn't get any until I went and got Tyler and Grandpa Bert. Grandpa snagged a water bottle out of the air. Good thing so men are tall. This lady literally grabbed a piece of candy between my legs! What a witch! Madden hung out most of the time with Mimi and Poppa. He was so tired and grumpy. Poor guy. Aunt Libby came too and helped with the overheated children. Wow, hotter than heck. My dad literally fell asleep at the parade because he hates it so bad. Who falls asleep during a parade? I guess when you don't really care about it, why not? The day was spent making cookies, eating way too many and then going to a BBQ at my Aunt's house. Luckily, they live right by my Great Uncle who lives almost on Eagle Wood's lawn. It was quite the firework show. I thought Madden would cry but, he and London were laughing and clapping their hands. It was so sweet. Well, I have a date with the hubs at the temple, so that will have to do for part one. I'll really try to do better peeps. Oh wait I need to put in funny things that London has done. When Lebron announced he was going to Miami, Ty yelled,"MIAMI?!" London said, "NOT your ami, MY AMI!!!" It was so funny. She also told me that my garments were beautiful jammies and that my hair needs a brush.

Well, this is embarrassing.....

2010-07-01T06:44:00.016-06:00

I've been crazy busy this summer and obviously the result is a neglected blog. After father's day, it was my dad's birthday. We had a swim party before the bbq. I was so sick of getting in a suit from Cherry Hill that I sat out and enjoyed the shade for once. It sure seemed like nobody was cooperating with my camera taking. Even London couldn't keep her eyes open for one dang picture! At least Madden was happy! So, I guess the monthly changes with our family include: London's learning to fake like she's asleep, Madden's gotten another tooth, he's eating more than London, (If not grabbing at her food and finishing it all together.) and he's walking around furniture like crazy! He's definitely a grabber regarding hair, food, and ANY clutter on the floor. London has a sudden terror against any creeping/crawling thing. Yesterday she was screaming and sobbing in genuine terror over a moth. Ty and I laughed so hard and then told her it was a butterfly. She started crying and said, "I hate that butterfly." Same thing happened at Cherry Hill. She ran down the ramp into Pirate's Cove sobbing and screaming all the way to my chair over.....a butterfly. The other day I found ants in the kitchen (only a few) and London was so upset. I got out some Raid spray and told her not to let Madden crawl over by the wall. Then the drama began and she started to cry saying,"I don't want Madden to crawl by the wall and die like the ants!!!" It's such a dramatic life. Madden is talking more saying Ma-ma, Da-da, Lunun (London), Go, and that's about the extent. He loves his food and is atrociously messy when he eats. He loves his cousin Gabe, and they try to take whatever the other one has! We also gave him a haircut! His first! Now he looks like a little boy and not my baby! SO SAD! Well, I vow to do better at updating so I don't forget all of the funny thing my kids do! Here's my little Mad after a fight with a Nutrigrain bar.

Happy Father's Day!

2010-06-19T12:07:00.010-06:00

I feel like every holiday, birthday, or Father's Day, I just write a list of wonderful things my fabulous husband does. But, the truth is, he's like that all of the time! He's such a great dad. Ty always gets up with the kids (now that he's home and VP of iGlobal!) in the morning. The other day Ty got up early to watch some World Cup before the day got started and let Lewie watch some cartoons. London went up to him a little later and said, "Dad, there's smart, and then there's K-mart smart." Then she went on her merry way while he was laughing his guts out. It's things like that, that make me laugh and appreciate that my husband loves and enjoys our children as much as I do. He reads to them all of the time and teaches London B of M stories daily. I love having a worthy priesthood holder in the home and I'm grateful for is attendance with me to the church and to the temple. Tyler is inspiring to me and others. Ty and I laugh constantly and there's no one I'd rather laugh at than him! He's such a goof and luckily appreciates my dorkiness as well! He's affectionate towards me and the children and as an affectionate person, it means a lot to me! I couldn't imagine it if my husband didn't kiss me or spank my bum in public on a daily basis. How boring! Most of all I'm grateful that he lets me be the blunt, sarcastic, overly honest, gym rat woman that I am. Anywho, love you babes. Thanks for being all that you are and taking care of me and the kiddos. Love, hugs, and bum rubs, Shellsie

The Many Faces of Madden

2010-06-06T13:00:00.013-06:00

Madden's hair has become curly, just like his big sister, London. While trying to get a picture of his curls, we witnessed the many different expressions Madden has in his repertoire. He's hilarious. This week has been full of family activities, swimming, and tired evenings. Yes, Madden is wearing a pink bonnet because I forgot his hat. London was concerned that he looked like a girl. Of course, being the predictable child that London is, she had multiple snack times while swimming and posing for the camera. I just love the fact that they're so beat after a day in the sun. You know I love me a good, tired, snuggly baby. Man, I love the summer!