Mark and April Sullivan

To make up for all my picture-less posts!!!

2011-04-14T19:34:00.000-07:00

My Little Studio is Open!!!!

2011-02-13T16:45:00.001-08:00

I'm so excited to be moved back into my home in Pleasant Grove and to have my little studio to teach out of! I'm starting classes this week. Here's the schedule so far:

Tuesday:

4-5: Ballet 1 for ages 8-10

6-7:30 Advanced Ballet and Pointe ages 15 and up

Wednesday:

10:30- 11: Mommy and Me for age 3
11-11:40 Princess Ballet: Pre-Ballet for age 4

4-5 pm Ballet 1 for ages 7-9

Thursday:

1- 1:45 pm: Pre-Ballet for ages 5-6

Saturday:

10:30- 11:30 Ballet for ages 12-14

My prices are:

Time/Week $/Month

30 min $25
40/45 min $30
1hr. $35
1.5 hrs. $40
2 hrs. $50
2.5 hrs. $65
3 hrs. $75

Call me to register your little cuties!!! -
April's Cell: 801-836-3830. Can't wait to hear from you!

a stable place sufficed.....

2010-12-24T10:32:00.000-08:00

As Mark and I are looking at all the features of potential homes for our little family, we've been considering all the features... granite counters, hardwood floors, square footage... but stressing over those details really seemed quite vain when I really listened to one of my all time favorite Christmas songs, In the Bleak Midwinter. Especially the line that says,

In the bleak mid winter, a stable place sufficed... for the Lord Almighty, Jesus Christ.

In the bleak midwinter frosty wind made moan,
Earth stood hard as iron, water like a stone.
Snow had fallen, snow on snow
Snow on snow on snow
In the bleak midwinter oh so long ago.

Heaven cannot hold Him, nor the earth sustain
Heaven and earth shall flee away
When He comes to reign.
In the bleak midwinter, a stable place sufficed
For the Lord Almighty, Jesus Christ.

Angels and Archangels may have gathered there
Cherubim and Seraphim thronged the air
But his mother only, in her maiden bliss
Worshipped her beloved with a kiss.

What then can I give Him, poor as I am?
If I were a shepherd, I would bring a lamb
If I were a wiseman, I would do my part
What then can I give Him? Give my heart.

Lazy Laz about the Bloggity Blog

2010-09-18T14:29:00.000-07:00

Um.. I guess you've converted to the great FACEBOOK when all you can think to say on your blog is:

Facebook killed the Blogging Star.

Well, I was never a STAR... but I had my times of consistent blogging. Hopefully those days will return, but we shall see!

still geekin' out over these cookies

2010-03-26T17:19:00.000-07:00

My little guy is becoming quite the cookie monster! "Cookoo? Cookoo, Mommy?" Yes. Mommy is cookoo.. over this recipe!!! This is one of those, "Yes!!! Something can be good and healthy at the same time" recipes! This will restore your faith in online recipes!

Here's the link.

I only add 1 cup of rolled oats and I put them through my coffee grinder along with the almonds and dried coconut because I like a less 'oatie' cookie. If I do put in the full 2 cups of oats I add 4.5 bananas instead of 3. I use the Ghiradelli Extra Dark chocolate chips you can find at any grocery store. I love these!!! Yum Yum!! And I feel much better about giving these to my little tot than those yummy but loaded cookies you get from the bakery.

I'm actually so crazy about these that I prepare a bunch of baggies of the dry ingredients at once so when I want to make them I just add the bananas, vanilla and coconut oil and bake 'em up! Delicioso!

January Recap--New Year New Home

2010-02-02T21:24:00.001-08:00

So... for those of you who might be wondering if deciding to move and being out within two weeks with two babies is fun... let me just spoil the discovery for ya... NOPE!!!

Moving. Finding a place that allows pets, that isn't nasty, isn't too expensive... nightmare! Although I try to be an optimistic person I can honestly say I hate moving. Especially when I 'm sick and especially "speed moving." Everything everywhere. Nothing "packed" just shoved in the closest box or laundry basket to hold it, thrown in a trunk or truck- and now the joy of going through everything I own. It is good for us to cull away at all our crap but....Barf!

Ok... sorry about that little whine session. My new place is darling but a mess and I can't help feeling like the part in Mr. Mom where he wears flannel, gets fat and watches soaps all day.

'Member this part?

Yeup, that's me these days. In a bathrobe, hairy, dirty... ironing some kid's cheese sandwich. Thank goodness our tv's broken so no soaps- but junk food gallore since I haven't made friends with my new kitchen yet. Oh my! Don't worry, I'll get my act together soon. Thanks to all our wonderful family members and ward members who helped us out! We really couln't have done it without you! Having no orderly place for awhile really made me realize how important it is to have a space where our children can be safe and be able to play! Thanks so much to everyone! Muah!

But aside from moving, my January was still quite packed.

New Year's Eve- Hallelujah we went to Noa's birthday party. That was the only one we could hit because Isaiah completely lost it around 7pm. My babies are just not the night-out-on-the-town type.

Pooping out on my first resolution--- it took about two weeks this year. Impressive.

Girl's dinner with.. you know, the girls. It was so great to see everyone and to get the update on their lives. I honestly feel so blessed to have girlfriends that I've grown up with still in my life. Girlfriends to laugh and cry with. To freak out over turning 30 with. To have awkward moments with. To "Remember when you told me off at cheer practice?" with. I love you girls!!! Thanks for all of you who made it!

Easton's Third Birthday. They loved the K-Zoo and I was happy to host one more party at my home.

Ezra's First Birthday. Hooray for Chuck-E-Cheese!

Our last dance class was so fun! Amber did such a cute job. I will really miss my dance studio and my cute dancers. Especially Mady, whom I've taught for years now.

Moving day.

Benjamin's Fourth Birthday. What a dino-riffic time we had!!

This month Sawyer has really started to talk!!! He's back to imitating every word we say.. (I'd better watch my mouth!!!) and my favorite things he says are, "Doos! Pees! Moon! (Juice Please More). He was "ba-bye" to you when he knows he's got something he shouldn't have. He always wants to go in "cool carrrr" and go wave at everyone at the grocery store. He knows the entire alphabet and creates letters all the time with blocks, bend-a-roos or just with crayons. He's drawn a pretty mean b, H (ach), M, W(duba), C, and A if I do say so myself.. What a smarty! He knows quite a few signs for the letters, and a few numbers.

He's definitely having to learn a lot about being 'soft'. Whoa! I really can't leave Isaiah alone with him. In one second it goes from giggling and smiling to screaming and that blank look on Sawyer's face like, "What did I do?" So far, Sawyer has bruised poor 'Saiah's head, bitten him, wrestled with him.. tried to 'feed' him with a spoon shoved down his throat...poor little man. Only six months old and so roughed up already. Sorry, little guy! The latest game is, just as Isaiah is falling asleep in the carseat on a drive, Sawyer yells, "Saiah!" to wake him up. Great game, eh?

Despite his little brawls with big brother, Isaiah loves Sawyer so so much! He loves watching him explore what he can't yet. Thank heaven! He's already six months old!!! This month has been a big one for him. He started on some rice cereal and oatmeal, and has had some peas and green beans. So far, green beans are his favorite, but he still pulls the, "This is so disgusting" face and dry- heaves the food down. He is so so cute!!! He really make me so happy just by smiling at me. He has the best laugh and says Dada. He just got cut his first tooth on the bottom left... I can only feel the tip of the little iceberg... so hopefully it won't be chomp city for awhile. He wakes up in the night and I honestly don't mind it. It's our special time together. I only wish I didn't need sleep at all, then I wouldn't get so moody because of it.

So that was our busy January. Pictures will come. I hope you all had a wonderful first month of 2010. Mark and I decided to start celebrating New Month Eve at the end of every month so we can refocus our energies- because, let's face it... some months are a complete wash!!!

Resolutions for 2010!!

2010-01-09T21:41:00.000-08:00

So... for some reason I like to make goals that all start with at least the same phonetic sound... (last year was finances, photography, and food storage) and so this year, apparently the letter is S... So I will be

Serving through sharing my talents.

Saratoga Springs Sprint Triathlon.
june 5th

Singing somewhere.
( I know, specific, eh?)

I actually have pretty specific details on how I'll tackle these quests.. but hopefully these will help me refine my character and bless others too! Wish me luck and best wishes for you and your 2010 resolutions!!

Scripture of the Day

2010-01-06T20:57:00.000-08:00

"O God, Aaron hath told me that there is a God; and if there is a God, and if thou art God, wilt thou make thyself known unto me, and I will give away all my sins to know thee, and that I may be raised form the dead, and be saved at the last day...." Alma 22:18

I love this scripture. It makes me think realistically about my sins, weaknesses and transgressions. Some I honestly have grown to almost like because they seem part of my personality. I love Lamoni's father's humble prayer... What am I willing to give away to know my Heavenly Father?

My Testimony

2010-01-02T22:16:00.000-08:00

I realized the other night that I've never shared my testimony with my blogging buddies and it's such a huge part of who I am that I thought I would take a moment to do so.

These are the the things I believe...

I believe that every person that has ever existed or will ever exist is a precious creation of God. Our Heavenly Father deeply loves His children. I know that this love is greater by far than any of our imperfections. When I personally feel or see evidence of inhumanity, injustice, and cruelty to any degree I can't help but feel utterly disturbed by it. But then I have to think that not only is His love greater than the faults of His people but it's GREATER BY FAR. The complete sum of human imperfections is a mere thing in comparison to His love. His love squashes out the totality of evil and wickedness in all of us. He loves the vilest of sinners and weakest of saints with a perfect, Fatherly love. Each soul is truly of great worth to Him who created them.

For this reason I'm filled with hope. Hope for my weak, tired and wondering, simple spirit. Hope for humanity despite the tears that I shed when reading or watching the news. I know that because of His love for his Children, He made the ultimate sacrifice, in allowing His Only Begotten son, Jesus Christ to atone for our sins.

I love Jesus Christ. I know that He is the one who understands me completely. I know that He is familiar with my pain and my joy. He knows the darkest and lightest parts of me and loves me unconditionally. I know that if I have faith in Him, and then demonstrate this faith through my actions, then, no matter how many failed attempts I make, no matter how many negative feelings I have, I know I can return to be with my Heavenly Father and Mother in my Heavenly home, where I really belong.

I know in this Heavenly home I have a Heavenly Mother. And especially since becoming a mother I've thought of her often. I've pictured her a hundred different ways, but regardless of her outward appearance, I know that my divine mother is my ideal. She is full of love. She is a steady, powerful companion to my Father in Heaven. I really can't wait to be in her presence again and to feel her smiling eyes on me. Thinking of her inspires me to rid myself of all the petty, selfish, negative feelings I have. I feel blessed when I feel I can feel a closeness to her through the Holy Ghost.

I'm so grateful to have the Holy Ghost in my life. I know that through the blessing of his companionship and through faithful living I can know of my Heavenly Father's will for me. I can be warned of danger for me or my family, I can be taught the things of the spirit. It is because of the Holy Ghost that I've come to have a testimony. What a blessing personal revelation has been in my life!

I know the gospel of Jesus Christ is restored to the earth. It was restored through His beloved servant, Joseph Smith, who had the courage to do as the Lord commanded despite any persecution or hardship he may have endured. I'm grateful that Joseph so readily admitted to his own weaknesses. He was an ordinary man who was a devout and dependable servant for the Lord.

I'm grateful for what the gospel has brought to my life. The gospel is such an integral part of my existence that I don't really feel a distinction between it and the person I am. The gospel has taught me to focus on the spiritual things of life. To serve my God with all of my ability. I'm especially thankful that the gospel focuses so much on the home and family. I love being a mommy and my sons are the sunshine of my life! For me, nothing in this world could ever compare to the opportunity of raising them.

I feel so blessed to have the Book of Mormon, the Doctrine & Covenants, The Pearl of Great Price and the Bible along with the Joseph Smith Translations. I feel so blessed to have living prophets acting as the mouthpiece of the Lord. These words truly are His, and bring me a lot of peace in a turbulent world and from an unsettled mind. I know the Prophet, Thomas Monson speaks the truth and is leading so many to the Savior.

I believe we are commanded to 'lift up our hearts and rejoice'. We have the agency to choose happiness. At any point in our circumstances we are able to act for ourselves and choose to take steps that we know will lead us to happiness. Because of all the blessings the Lord has freely given me.. I truly should be full of happiness and gratitude. I believe the measure of our gratitude often is the measure of our happiness.

I'm thankful that in the enormity of the universe, God, the Creator of all things within that universe and beyond is aware of me. In God's omnipotent love, small, insignificant me in comparison to the whole of creation is simultaneously the most treasured, beloved creature within it. That is the greatness of my Father in Heaven. I know these things are true. If any haven't come to personal understanding of these things, I know that truth will cut it's own way, and if you seek to have a testimony, you will find it. I say these things in the Holy name of Jesus Christ. Amen.

Classic January 2nd... almost blew it!

2010-01-02T20:55:00.000-08:00

So the scripture for today is:

And because of your diligence and your faith and your patience with the word in nourishing it, that it may take root in you, behold, by and by ye shall pluck the fruit thereof, which is most precious, which is sweet above all that is sweet, and which is white above all that is white, yea, and pure above all that is pure; and ye shall feast upon this fruit even until ye are filled, that ye hunger not, neither shall ye thirst. Alma 32:42

I don't really know why this scripture stood out to me today, but maybe it's the part about being filled, that ye ye hunger or thirst not.... I'm always hungry!! Physically and emotionally. I'm always wanting to feel more complete, to be better, purer. I love this scripture because it reminds me that it will be a slow process, but if I'm diligent, the scriptures will fill me up with the sweetest, purest and most precious feast ever!

New Year's Resolution... to post!!!

2010-01-01T07:38:00.000-08:00

Yo! what up du? I think this year I'm going try and share a scripture or quote from the prophets on my blog or facebook. This is inspired by a comment made in Sunday school from a guy who felt guilty for spending his free 15 min. on facebook rather than reading the scriptures. To be honest, my scripture study has gone down... down... downhill so it's pretty much something to force me back into the habit and I'm taking y'all with me!!!

Anyway, we'll see how long it lasts but the quote for today was given to me by my sweet visiting teacher, who, despite being pregnant and on bed-rest still brings me cards and treats... What a sweetheart! The quote she shared with me made me cry yesterday. I was having one of those... "what is the point of my life?" moments when I read this so I really appreciated it. It also gave me some perspective on what my goals should align with.

"To help another human being reach one's celestial potential is part of the divine mission of woman. In partnership with God, her divine mission is to help spirits live and souls be lifted. This is the measure of her creation." Russel M. Nelson

So to all you spit-up on mommies that had to stay home with screaming babies last night... there ya go! A wee bit of inspiration. All these tiny sacrifices are for a greater and bigger purpose than we'll realize even in this life. So, stick to it and don't moop like I did last night!

Two TidBits...

2009-11-25T22:15:00.000-08:00

So I'm waiting for Isaiah to wake up so I can feed him and then do a midnight run to the grocery store... ya. One day I'll be on top of things, but that day is not today, or tomorrow apparently.

So I'm killing time on Facebook... which.. what? How am I supposed to know if anyone sent me a message? Oh, check my email... wah!!! I still don't quite get the thang...

Which leads me to the giggle fest I'm enjoying all by myself. Randomly I'll think of silly, totally absent-minded things I've done or said and I get a huge kick out of it. So tonight I'm sharing two of those with you lovely people..

Just thinking about Mark and Jana having a discussion about what direction we were heading and I hear the phrase, "Never Eat Soggy Waffles" I really didn't know why that came up, but I added emphatically, "No, No- Never Eat a Soggy Carrot... that's the worst thing I ever ate!" They were so confused... but it's a true story.. On the cheer bus coming home from a game, I ate a soggy carrot from my lunch that day and.. yuck! I've never forgotten it. BLEH!

Ya know those cell phone people that are in the middle of the mall? They always seem to sucker me into a conversation. Well, this guy was trying to sell me on the new phones that flip open with the full keyboard (this was years ago, and ironically I have this type of phone now..) So I'm looking at it.. and very properly lay my hands in keyboard position and start trying to type on the tiny keyboard. He must have seen the frustration on my face when he added, "Most people just use their thumbs." OH!!! Hee hee...

Just wanted to share two little tidbits from my silly little life.

Happy Thanksgiving to everyone and Happy Birthday to my sweetie, Mark!!! I love you so much and I truly am SO grateful I have you in my life... You are the perfect guy for me, now and always.... MUAH!!!

When is this baby going to wake up? Maybe I'll actually post with pictures... Maybe..

da da da DA dat dat dat da......

2009-09-09T20:47:00.000-07:00

It's time for another round of....

MYSTERY GOURD!!!

Step right up and attempt to name this squash and tell me how to prepare it and...

YOU WIN!!!

I inherited this from my mom, who is such a good gardener she gets stuff she didn't even know she planted.

She has no idea what it is and every google search for "orange squash recipe" brings up some martini drink or something.... so any input would be appreciated... I don't want this thing rotting before i figure it out.

So how is Sawyer doing?

2009-09-03T21:51:00.000-07:00

A question I keep getting lately is... "So how is Sawyer doing?" It's hard to become a big brother and learn to share mummy's and daddy's attention... so it's a very reasonable question. Well, he's decided he'll help us out by getting a jump start on changing him... and this is how we find him most mornings, after naps, or mid-night check-in-on-hims...

What a little angel, right?

After he started unzipping his sleepers and pulling his diaper out we went to pants and a shirt... then to overalls, now we're experimenting with the trickiest button/zipper/elastic/no elastic pants... he's gotten out of all of them- that sneaky kid! I can't say I blame him; isn't it fun to be nudey?

Most of the time it's no problem.. the only time there's been an issue is when we walk in and find this....

EEEH...

EEEH!!!
(Psycho Shower Scene Soundtrack)

Yes. That IS what you think it is. And this is the SECOND time I've found him like this. I practically hyperventilated the first time. I walked in and he, very politely, was handing some to me. At least I've taught him to share, eh? Let's just say I didn't exactly handle the situation with grace. It's poop for heaven's sake! You'd think after dealing with my doggie's doos I'd be a pro... but it's kind of different when it's in your precious baby's hair.

Are boys just born gross?

Anyway, I flipped out, and since I can't really get mad at Sawyer, Mark got it when he got home and I saved some of the mess for him. Sorry, Tweety... I really don't know why I did that. It was SOMEHOW your fault.

Well, this time I thought I'd capture it on film and share it with you all just in case YOU thought YOU had a crappy day.

Na Night

2009-08-25T20:00:00.000-07:00

So I just ravaged the packaging of an Unisom trying to get it out... I need some sleep, man!!! Every night I feel like a superstitious athlete with his lucky socks and sacred before performance rituals..."Ok... last night he slept really good, and we had just given him a bath, he wore these jammies, and he was swaddled with one arm out... so maybe if I just repeat that exact same thing..." it's pretty crazy. The sad thing is, even when my newborn gives me a four or five hour stretch-- my mind just keeps on churning out the same paranoias... "What if I trip and drop him because I'm so tired? Is it way hot in here?...nope, just detoxing those pregnancy hormones... oh... my gosh, did he poop again?? That's it... only ONE change per feeding next time, little guy...ok?" PLEEAASE!

Other than the sleep thing and the fact that I don't really know how I can ever leave my house with two babies all by myself, I'm great. All throughout my day I think of that Duggar lady with 18 kids and think... "Wow, I need to watch that show- how do they do it?" I love the comment I got from this darling girl Meagan at church, "So two now, huh? It's less boring, isn't it?" I loved that perspective... from now on, anything challenging to me is going to be "less boring"...

Isaiah is doing really well. He's super cute with his eagle skwaks/teradactle calls. Thank heavens he's a good nurser and for magical boobs. Did I just write that? Whell, honetly that's what I think when he's screaming and then suddenly, pop him on and...ah.. silence.. Golden.. just golden. But come on, mommies, admit it, you're a bit proud when you squirt your baby in the eyeball that first time, or after you pump a bunch and your like, "how many ounces was that? i'm a amazing!" Maybe men are right to be so obsessed with these wonderous things! I guess it's kind of like when guys are pyromaniacs... maybe we're lactomaniacs... "Honey, did you just throw out that last half ounce he didn't drink... we could save that!" I'm really trying to calm down, I promise... But I'm so grateful that I'm able to nurse... I'm way to lazy to have MORE dishes, and to get up and get them ready... blah, blah... I'm so grateful I can do it now without thinking profanities anymore... those first few weeks are brutal! Ah.... the delirium of new mommyhood... I might have to delete this post when I read it in the light of day... oops...

2009-07-29T21:09:00.001-07:00

Isaiah Jeffrey was born Tuesday July 21st 2009
He was 7 lbs. 15 oz. (a lightweight!!)
19" long (surprisingly undisputed by daddy)
He came at 3:39 pm

So will it stay red? That's the question.

I'd be calling him a redhead if I didn't have this little glow-bop who's so red he's pink in some lights... no joke

The delivery was awesome!! I was dilated to an 8 before the doctor broke my water and whamo! An hour and a half later he was here! Second time around your body is much better aware as to what in the world is happening. I loved it- it was a very special and spiritual experience.

Brand new baby boy!

Me and mee wee little Irish boys

Isaiah and his "magic blanket" This blanket saved my bacon the first night home. Once I swaddled him in it... na night! Thanks again, Damaris... it's like wrapping him up in love!

cuddled up with The Good Book..

literally pooped out on The Good Book

Dear Isaiah,

I’m sitting here with you right beside me on the bed with the laptop looking at your tiny, tiny sleeping body and your pouty lips and your baby faux-hawk and I can’t help but smile. You are so precious. Your dad feels the same way. It’s so cute to see him look at you and brim with joy. He is definitely a proud papa.

I wanted to tell you a little bit about the day you were born. After a night of pretty hard contractions, we got up to go to our doctor's appointment. Despite my sleep deprivation, I'd had a really calm feeling all morning. I kind of thought this would be the day. We walked with Sawyer down to the doctor’s office. I remember looking at our shadows on the sidewalk in front of us. We each had one of Sawyer’s hands and looking at our little family of three I thought, “Our family shadow is about to change.”

The doctor sent us to the hospital and we were so excited to think we were soon going to meet our little boy. Just before you were born I remember suddenly feeling really overwhelmed and pressured. In this moment, I was able to formulate a prayer in my heart, “Heavenly Father, please help me bring this baby here”. Right after that, one more big breath and push and you were here!

I looked up to see you and the very first thing you did was open your arms wide, like you were saying, “Hold me, Mommy. I’m here!” the doctor put you in my arms and you were so beautiful. I was so happy to hold you and see you. I said, “Oh my word, he’s got auburn hair too!”

We got settled into our new room, and your dad and I said a prayer of thanks. We felt so blessed.
It’s such a spiritual experience to have a baby. Apart from being sealed to your dad and my children for all eternity, it’s the most exciting, special thing I’ll get to do in this life. We had chosen the name Isaiah for you a few months before your birth, and when your dad read that it means, “Help from the Lord” I felt a special spirit, reminding me of the immediate answer to my prayer I said in your delivery. The Lord wants you here, Isaiah- at this time and in this place. He helped me bring you here and He’ll help you your whole life through.

I know you are such a special boy. Your spirit is so huge inside your tiny body. After being near you nonstop for the past nine months, it’s hard for me to be away from you… even for a little while… even a small distance. I keep finding myself holding you and staring at you for hours when I should be sleeping. I should be, but I can’t. I know that your childhood is going to fly by in a blink and I don’t want to miss any of it. Your dad and I feel so lucky that you came six days early- it’s like we have six extra days of your childhood! I hope we fill all your days with love. I wish I could ever express to you how much I already love you.

Your dad gave me a blessing before your birth that all would go well and that you would be blessed with an immediate love for your parents. I can feel this from you, little guy. Thank you for all the joy you’ve already given me and your daddy. We’ll be forever in debt to our kids for how much happiness they bring to us.

My little Isaiah- I hope that you meet life with those same arms wide open that I first saw you with. I hope you’ll be open to all the love around you, all the happiness and joy, and all the things the Lord wants to teach you. I hope you are open to all those who will love you completely and genuinely. I hope you'll embrace all of the amazing possibilities that await you in this beautiful world. Your life has just begun and I'm so happy that I get to share it with you.

With all the love I have,

Mommy.

Welcome Cute Boy!

2009-07-26T21:48:00.001-07:00

Let's Get Ready to RUMBLE!!!

2009-06-10T20:54:00.000-07:00

I have no idea why I picked that title for this post.. other than I feel like shouting something but the babe is asleep.

First of all... I love being a mommy. Sawyer finally will stay asleep if we need to move him so we get quiet moments like this one...

What a little cherub!

I loved getting my first Cheerios necklace for Mother's Day. There's nothing like being a mommy. Sawyer makes me so giddy with how sweet he is. His latest thing is giving running hugs and kisses. I'M MELTED< MELTED!!!

Life has been good and busy. I've conquered a few feats lately. This year's resolutions are- Food Storage... Finances...and (F)otography.. What's up with all these phonetic f's?

Anyway...

So I've been working on my three month supply,

Breakfasts and dinners in the bag and some lunch and household supplies?... Check!

making bread from the huge bucket-o-wheat I got and my new wheat grinder I got for Mother's Day,
and planting my first square foot garden... It's been some work but really fun too!

Sawyer gets a little bummed when I don't let him play in Mommy's dirt box... poor guy.

What else...Mark and I went to the Dave Ramsey show... yeah, he's converted me to be an AM radio geek- and I started taking photography classes so I'm feeling stretched in more than just the pregnant way.

I'm also trying to get a lot of fun in before I get too far along that traveling is out. So Jana, Amber and I went to Park City. No photos... we were too busy relaxing. But later we went to Idaho by the Snake River with the hubbies and boys to stay with a cute couple- Justin and Anna- in their cabin there. It was so beautiful and refreshing-- I loved it!

I love all these pictures we took down by the Snake. They're a little light, but I love the background.

Sawyer and Ben

Marky with his two (almost three) favorite people.

It's a big world out there, Sawyer!

Sawyer's latest new thing is he loves doing is accessorizing. You can already tell he has my sense of style. The only thing that's missing is Mark's belt wrapped twice around his waist, or Kelty's collar clipped on as a belt. He actually gets mad if I take the leash part off, so I just collar him up, hold the leash, and we go for a walk around the house. He thinks it's great. The only problem is when he walks to the door and points to it.. Yup. He's learned a lot from me, Mark, and the dog. I don't think I'm quite ready to walk my son around the block on a leash. I at least need the backpack kind so I don't feel so weird about it.

Not that I easily feel weird.

Amber and I saw this GIANT truck parked down University Parkway... we couldn't waste this photo op.

So that's what I've been up to pre baby numero dos. Ojala que toda vaya bien. And I just discovered facebook per my sister-in-law's request so if you're on there too give me a buzz or whatever. I hope all of my beautiful and wonderful friends and family are doing AWESOME and enjoying this beautiful but randomly rainy weather. Lots of love.

So I think I get an F for blogging...

2009-04-28T21:44:00.000-07:00

I definitely go on anti-computer strikes... No downloading photos, no checking e-mails, no random searches about the latest wonderment I've wondered... and positively no reading blogs and/or updating my blogs/scrapblogs... ah!

I go on similar strikes with my phone. Usually these are induced by just the fact that I can't FIND THE THANG!

So, since I have no new photos- here are a few things I'm wondering about:

1. How long do I need to make this post before the pictures from the last one don't show up anymore... Not that I don't like them... they're just over a month old... ew!!

2. I started out liking the name Moses for our little guy, Mark ex-nayed that one so now we like Isaiah. I'm just wondering if we'll keep moving up in the Bible and by the time he's born he'll be Ashton or some other contemporary name.

3. I realized that for quite some time (as a youth, mind you) I really thought people were speaking pig latin. I was in the mall the other day when I heard this language.. (I want to say Sri Lankan or Latvian... based on nothing but that's what they FEEL like to me) and realized that I used to think that people were just really good at pig latin so it sounded all smooth... just so people couldn't understand them. Somtimes I can be so illysay.

4. How did I get so lucky? Marky is able to work from home and whoa that has major perks! Today I didn't even realize the shower head was broken before he was on his way to the store to replace it! I realized it was broken later as water was spewing all over the bathroom from an unsuspected source (thank goodness it wasn't me yet!) Yay! What a man! He's also stained the deck, fixed the lawn mower and mowed the lawn and takes Sawyer for me when he can. I really am so blessed. The sad thing is.. I still get really overwhelmed- even with all his help and despite the fact that we only have one easy baby....What's the deal?

5. I'm also wondering who made it all the way through this lame post? Anyone? Anyone? I'm bored of it and I'm writing it... that's a bad sign...

Peace out.

The 1 2 Punch....

2009-03-09T11:14:00.000-07:00

So I have some news for a few of you...

I've been hiding something...

But I can't anymore!!

Mark and I are expecting a BOUNCING BABY BOY around July 26.

Why did we wait so long to make this announcement?... Well, I've always wanted to deliver a 1... 2.. punch... I'm pregnant and it's a boy. Bam. Bam. We are thrilled! We can't wait to have another little guy around this place!

Sawyer's First Haircut

2009-02-10T19:43:00.000-08:00

So... my little guy finally got his first haircut. Now that he's 14 mos. it's probably about time. It all came about because he got into my grooming "tools" and I had to snag away my clippers before he got to them.

So... since he was pretty preoccupied with the other items in the bag.. I snatched off the little baby mullet he had going on back there! Goodbye rat tail!

I did a pretty good job... there's only a small chunk out of the back of his hair.

I can't wait until I can spike up his red locks!!

2009-01-24T23:36:00.001-08:00

Baby Hall is Here!!!! Yahoo!

2009-01-22T14:59:00.000-08:00

Here he is!

Amber had her baby yesterday and he is gorgeous!!! She was absolutely amazing! She delivered him after almost 2 hours of hard labor and went all natural!!! What a woman! I'm so proud of her. She's amazing! Her little guy is SO ADORABLE!!! Here's a quick look:

Christmas Take Two

2008-12-29T21:49:00.000-08:00

My Little Man is ONE!!!

2008-12-02T19:41:00.000-08:00

I can't believe my little guy is one year old!! I've been so nostalgic about his birth. The day he was born was our best day ever! He is one amazing little guy!

I feel so blessed to have a little guy who is so easy. He's such a good sleeper, eater, etc. He is so cute with his red hair, but my favorite thing about Sawyer is his personality.. He is so smiley and giggly. Everyone who spends time with him comments on how good-natured he is. We totally lucked out with that little guy!

Thanksgiving felt like his birthday all over again, because he was born on Thanksgiving last year. I remembered my turkey dinner in the hospital... yummy!!

This year Sawyer got to eat quite the variety of food... he was in heaven!

So Amber and I decided to do the Black Friday thing... and we're pretty much done!! Never before have I been so prepared! Seeing as Amber due next month, she didn't want to waddle through the malls all this month. Not again!

Dame Fonteyn had nothing on our Dane Fonteyn...

2008-11-11T12:33:00.000-08:00

So Amber hosted our family's first annual... (it better become a tradition- girl!) Doggie Costume Party to celebrate Rufus' birthday. I know what you all are thinking... these people are nuts!!! And, you're right. That's why in high school I signed yearbooks April, the nut (go check yours... 10th grade especially.. ) anyway, I truly was a crazy and silly girl... So different than how I am now.

Anywho... We had yummy Cafe Rio style burritos and salads, and had a doggie costume parade and awards... Kelty got best trick for her roll over and spin around (and, yes, I have tried to teach my German Shepherd to dance... She did pretty well until I wanted her to back up... she was very suspecting of the move for some reason)

The next big event was da da da DA>>> November 4th and I voted for... Aiden Ty!! That's right, my nephew was born on election day.. maybe he has a future in politics. He is SOOO cute and tiny. Mily was a trooper and she and Adam are such cute parents. They are completely smitten with this new little one. He is so ADORABLE...

OnE OutRageOs OcTobeR

2008-11-11T11:59:00.000-08:00

Um... We keep having computer and internet issues so I'm not able to add the photos that would make these next two posts complete... but I'm going to post regardless and add them later... you'll just have to imagine all the cute shots I got of my little guy and my family.

So... just a quick recap on all of the fun October events:

The month started out with the last trip out to the Idaho house with my parents to watch and listen to General Conference... It was so relaxing and a great location to listen to all the great talks given... Sawyer had fun exploring and playing with my mom's sun hat... what a cutie!

Here was a shot out the car on the drive home... not bad, eh?

Well, next was our attempt to go to Cornbellys... but the weather was NOT permitting, so we checked out the Dinosaur Museum instead... It was awesome!! We were the only ones there.. so it was great for letting the boys run around and have a great time

Next was the BIG day... Halloween.! Can I just say that having Sawyer makes the holidays SO much more fun!! I loved dressing him in his little pumpkin costume. Originally I thought he was going to be a BEE... but he outgrew the costume before the big day.. (As a lifelong procrastinater I don't have the 'prepare in advance' down... I've got the 'throw it together last minute' mastered.. well, we can't say mastered, but well explored.) Anyway, I always find myself a few days before or the day of Halloween thinking, "What could I glue to my shirt and call a costume?" My friend Zoraya had a few great ideas.. -Wrap yourself in tinfoil and be leftovers... -Wear all brown and tape yellow ballons to yourself and be a cornpoop- yeah, you ALL know what that means.. Anyways, My mom hooked Mark and I up with scrubs andWalmart was great for a last minute wig and lashes... and Waalaa... We were Dr. Acula and his nurse victim.. (Scrubs, anyone?)

Mark and I actually loved dressing up this year.. We're going to try to do it every year and not be the Halloween Humbugs we've been in the past. Here's a few shots from Sawyer's first Halloween...

2008-09-28T20:13:00.000-07:00

So we've had a really fun September!

This is a typical scene at our home these days. I've been doing 3 mos. hard time in the kitchen... there has been a lot of criminal activity... namely
1- Deceptively Delicious recipes gone wrong... (By no fault of the author.. just somehow I made them Obviously Disgusting)
2-Hot pad burning
3-"Ripening" fruit... (yeah, throwing it on the floor doesn't make it ripe... just bruised. Try a paper bag and an apple.. that works better)

Along with my clueless culinary discoveries.. I took Sawyer to the State Fair and to Hoogle Zoo. When he was conscious he enjoyed it!

This is his first merry-go-round... We thought the orange giraffe matched him well.

These are my cute, cute, CUTE nieces! They are so much fun! They cheered for Sawyer on his ride... they make everything so exciting.

Sawyer and Grandpa Sullivan

The elephants were so cool! I love their wrinkles!

Sawyer and Easton at the State Fair. Sawyer was having a hard time hanging on.. poor guy!

It was so funny what amazed people at the fair. Washing the cows was an absolute show stopper... Everyone was like, "Whoa, hold up! They washin' cows here."

And he's out. My little red angel.

Don't mind my gumball shirt.. hot, I know.

Also, we went to the So You Think You Can Dance Concert and it was awesome. It was great to just sit a scream like a little girl!! OH.. the chills! I loved it!

Long time no blog... oops!

2008-08-26T09:04:00.000-07:00

Okay... so I think I'm becoming a monthly vs. a weekly blogger. Oh well. I go on these anti-computer stints where I just can't find a minute to sit down. I loved Angie's advice on having the laptop in the kitchen.. unfortunately my internet is unreliable there so... anyway.. blah blah..

Some fun things have happened this month. Mark and I had our 6th wedding anniversary and we had a great time. We went rock climbing at the Quarry and it was thrilling.. I think the older I get the more I'm losing my nerve... so smaller things are really exciting. We had a blast. It'd been a long time since I've been and I think even longer for Mark. It was fun. I would've taken pictures but we were a little focused on not dying or dropping each other... Afterward we went to Asuka so Marky could get his all- you-can eat sushi and we sat in the low tables in the back.

Ching-a ching-a ching ching ching-ching-ching-ching....Gong!!! AHSHO!!!

I've always wanted to sit there. I thought we'd be folding our legs the whole time but the table are in a pit so you're just sitting like normal... kinda weird. Mark said that's how the table are in Japan. Anyway, it was yummy and our waitress was hilarious. She was so put out by all our requests, didn't refill our water until we were completely done, and when she brought out our entrees and I was in the restroom she said in her demanding Chinese accent, "Wheisshe?" She was quite the character. We asked her if she'd been watching the Olympics, and she's responded rather impatiently, "Idonhaftime!" Hee Hee. All in all, it was a great night.

Six years... where has the time gone?

Here's the latest of the little man

Sawyer is so funny. He makes me laugh so much! He loves to smoosh his face on his play-pen mesh... what a prankster!

Sawyer is like my personal little comedian... He loves sticking out his tongue when he gets excited... it's so funny.

So I found him like this one morning....yeah, I have no idea how he did it. Hee hee!

This is little Jensen... Ashley's darling little darling. I felt so lucky to be able to meet him. Ashley looks so good and did so awesome... au naturale... go girl! Isn't he gorgeous??

So what's been occupying my time, you ask? Why a month since my last post? Well, I'm actually learning to cook. That's right. I'm caving. Miss 'I started a fire in the microwave, almost burnt- down my bro. in law's house and killed my dog' is actually going for it again. (And, yes those are on different occasions... one the result of melting chocolate chips in the microwave, and one the consequence of using the unfamiliar stove top and leaving it on... oops!)Everyone brace yaselves.... Hopefully we won't have any ER incidents to report. What brought this on? Well, two things really. First, It's really quite a wake up call when the guys at the Gondolfo's drive-thru start recognizing you. Second, I'm SO HUNGRY!! and all the crap fast food we eat is really not satisfying my hunger. Mark and I have been on the "All American Diet" for the last six years, and it's gotta stop.

Consequently, I read this book called "Original Fast Foods" and I loved it!!! It's taken my so long to find a book that I completely agreed with as far a nutrition and I finally have. It's great and I'm learning how to make all their stuff. The authors we're my old neighbors and she was the best Sunday School teacher I've ever had. Their recipes are yummy!!! Actually, I've definitely botched a few... like ya know that pudding that moves itself across the table from "Better off Dead"? yeah, I've got the recipe for that if you're interested. But for the most part, they've been good and I feel really good about the pounds and pounds of fruits and veggies that we're pounding down...hee hee.

Mark and I also just started reading the Twilight books and we love them! It's been kind of bad timing with the Olympics, because we'll stay up till 11 watching them and then go read for two hours... what are we thinking? Sawyer wakes me up pretty early and Mark started back at True North so he has to get up early now... but somehow we can't resist and we're actually relieved the Olympics are over... So much activity on their part that inspires so little activity on our part. Oh well. They're amazing! I still have a not-so-secret dream of being an athlete... if I only was into sports.. oh well.

So I don't know how all you mommies do it. Keep your houses clean, cook dinners, take care of the babes AND read books!?? There's definitely not enough time in the world for all this. Someday I'll get it all figured out, right? Yeah, I will, and then things will change and I'll have to figure it all out again, huh? That's life... how fun!

Well I love you all and I'm sorry I haven't been keeping up on everyone and their fun news. I hope you all are doing well. I really think I need help getting this housewife thing down. It's pretty time consuming and challenging... that's why I like it. Life is wonderful, isn't it?

Bubbles, Bubbles EVERYWHERE!!

2008-07-18T21:28:00.000-07:00

Yay!!! My very talented friend, Suzanne Hart did some more pictures of Sawyer and they are SOOO cute!

I'm obsessed with bubbles... I still play with them... so naturally I wanted some pictures with them. Too bad Sawyer wasn't quite ready for that..

Look at this handsome guy!

Our little fam.

I love that you can see the little sun beams in this one.

I think this one is my favorite... His smile is my favorite sight in this whole world!!

Thanks so much, Zanny!! You are amazing! Thanks for getting him smiling!

Hello again, bloggers!!

2008-07-18T20:00:00.001-07:00

SOOO.... I know it's been awhile, but hey according to our friend Steve Kuhni, the original marathon runner died... so I'm feeling pretty good that I've just been a slacker about blogging... Whoa!! I've been out of the loop. It was so fun to see Steve and Jen at a lunch with Theron, Katie and Josh. Steve is still just as funny as ever and Jen is so cute! We can't wait for them to come back in town. So here's the low down on this month..(or so)

Horray!! The new do... SO much better, eh? I had to do it, my hair has been falling out like crazy since Sawyer was born... I mean, check out my bath drain...

Yikes!!

Ok... so maybe that was Kelty's hairball.... but it coulda been mine... I mean- that's what it felt like anyway.

So, I know it's been awhile.. Sawyer is already 7 months old... almost eight!! Where does the time go?

We had a fun play date at Winer's Park.. yahoo!

Patting the ball was fun...

but swinging with daddy was even funner!!!

He loved it!

His Auntie Amber makes him laugh and smile so much!

Mily and Adam are expecting their first... and it's a baby boy! Hooray! My dad thinks they should name him TY because now there's 3 granddaughters and 3 grandsons... it's a tie!! They told him, "Ok, it's on the list"

Glory and Easton look so much alike! If Amber has a girl next, I think Glory will have a twin!

Sawyer and his Uncle Travis... Liberty's new hubby

Easton was so sweet in his little...err.... big... sun hat.

Yeah, I'm posting so late, but I had my first night away with the girls. St. George was fun... but the sweetest part was coming home to see Sawyer in his crib... he woke up for a little bit and smiled his guts out at Mark and I, and then quietly went back to bed. It was only about 36 hrs, but I started crying when I saw him again... what a sap!!

I felt like such a goof... I had to get a picture of this!

I have the best girlfriends in the world!!! Thanks to all you cute girls for having me!! I love how unique each one of you are...

Me with cutie Suzanne

I teach ballet to one student- Mady, and we held a little recital where she performed a petit allegro... she did a great job!

This is Sawyer at my parent's Bear Lake house... he loved his baths in the sink...

Rub a Dub Dub... one cute Sawyer in the tub-err.. sink!

Kelty was in heaven up in Idaho!! Fetch and going for walks like non-stop- could life be any better? Oh, she did get freaked out by a baby mini horse.. but a small sacrifice for all the fun she had.

I could really go for a massage

2008-06-17T15:12:00.001-07:00

So we did it!! YaHOO! Mark and I ran the Bear Lake Marathon yesterday. So... here's how it went- I wish you could all hear Mark tell it live- he's the best story teller and everything is so funny when he tells it... anyway..

We got up way early and headed to Garden City (about 20 minutes away from my parent's summer home in St. Charles) and boarded a bus full of a bunch of buff people- old and young- but all of them looked like they were in great shape. As Mark and I started talking to them we got more and more nervous... "Ah, you've done how many??? Working toward one in each state??Sheeesh!!" We were beginning to feel a little out of our league. I honestly thought I was going to throw up right before we started... which would've been too bad considering there were no potties at the starting line... what's up with that? A bunch of guys AND girls- mind you- just went for it in the sage brush and no one seemed to mind, either. What a world these runners live in!

So here's the difference between me and my hubby. I've trained pretty faithfully for six months-I never missed a long run, I've done a little research, bought some gear, got advice from as many marathoners as possible, etc.. Mark has gone running MAYBE ten times over six months, hasn't really done any research or honing down on his favorite techniques, etc... The most he'd run before yesterday in one day was 8 miles.... So needless to say, I was a bit concerned for him. I was worried he was going to really hurt himself or have to quit because of the pain or something- um, NO!!! After a little potty break I took, who do I see in front of me?, going a pretty decent pace I might add? My hubby... just trekking along with his mp3 player. Yeah, I had to work to catch up.. and he would've beat me had it been a half marathon. Anyway, long story short... I was able to run the entire time- except for through the aide stations (running and drinking isn't a skill I possess I just end up choking) and when I called my mom at 5 miles from the finish. Can I just tell you how excited I was to see the signs "2 more miles" "1 more mile" AH!!! I pretty much picked up the pace that last half mile... I felt like I was sprinting, but when you've been running about a 12 minute mile it probably wasn't really sprinting. Regardless, I was like yelling, "26.2 miles baby!" and "yay!!" and I jumped over the finish line all excited and elated- I was!!! I was so happy to have done it, to have accomplished my goal of running a marathon! Yeah! So my daddy was there... I love him so much! He was so proud of me and was telling me to get food and water and stretch for a minute.. There were so many nice people there. The guy that's trying to run a marathon in every state told my dad how I was a "tough cookie" going up this four mile incline and not stopping once- I don't really remember what he's talking about, but I go pretty brain dead after running for so long... anyway, that was really nice. So my dad and I decided to go try and find Mark to cheer him on the rest of the way, well, unfortunately, the path looped around for the last 2 miles, and he was closer to being done than expected, so we totally missed him and he just went home. I was so bummed! I missed his finish at our 10 k too. That's what I get for underestimating him. Oh well, he did it! And he came in a mere 30 minutes behind me... that bum! Could you imagine if he actually trained? He is pretty achy today and he had cramps in his legs the last 10 or so but he did it! What a natural athlete. He does hike a lot and play ball so I think that helped him. He also was probably blessed for all the early hours of watching Sawyer while I went running or to the gym... I really don't know how I would've been able to train without him and his flexible schedule.

I am so proud of him. After telling a guy on the bus that this was our first one he warned us that it's addicting... we were so happy afterward and elated to have accomplished our goal that I can see how it might be.
I did have a pretty bad tummy ache afterward- I think from all the gu and it's sugar and caffeine that my body's not used to- yeah, I probably should've gone easy on that, but all in all, we had a great experience. The race had such a different feel than all the other long runs I've done. It went by so much faster(even though we ran from about 6:45 to noon).. that adrenaline is something, isn't it? It was s uch a fun thing to do together. We're still so pumped and happy that we can just relax up here in Idaho for a few more days... thanks to my parents letting us stay at their house. They really took care of us and little Sawyer. I was so glad they were able to actually come up and watch. My whole life they've always made it to my special events... and there were so many games, track meets, concerts... wow! and they've been so supportive. I have the best parents ever!!

MAMAMAMAMAMAMA!!!!

2008-06-10T19:31:00.000-07:00

My Little Guy's First Word

10k Saturday and other summer fun

2008-06-10T19:09:00.000-07:00

Swing Swing Swing!!!

Sweet Benjamin

Christopher is such a happy kid... he loves being outside

We watched Amber's Great Dane Rufus while they went to Alaska... Sawyer was so entertained by this gentle giant.... WOOF!!

Mark and I did the Bridal Veil 10k to get us in the racing mode and break up the training schedule. It was so different than just running... we really pushed ourselves.

Guess who's 6 months old??? Where does the time go?

Sawyer with his beautiful Grandma Kathy... He LOVES his grandma.

A little dose of reality

2008-05-24T23:09:00.000-07:00

Ok so for those of you who know me, you understand my complete loopiness when I get tired... ok so I decided to invent a tag.. (I'm laughing hysterically that I used the word "invent" for such a small task)... anyway.. this is how the tag goes:

Post the very first picture of you right now... no editing allowed:

Hello bloggers

Yeah, right I WISH this was the first picture I took of me.. here's the reality...

Hey there lover boy.. .. yikes!!

Post the cutest/cleanest thing around you right now

Here's my lovely kitty who I actually just freaked out because I was laughing so hard so she bit me... what's up with that?.. maybe she got all tweaked out because of my shaggy hair... man! I need a grooming! I decided that's my reward for the marathon, a haircut- oh and Mark is going to eat at Magelby's Fresh- He swore them off about three years ago after discovering they didn't have a drop of maple syrup but still had the nerve to have pancakes on their menu. He really does get riled up about it to this day.

Post a picture of the nastiest thing in sight right now..(keep it pg you wild women) I just mean dirty socks, etc..

For me it was a toss up between this:

I think I can hear Libby and Heidi puking in the background... yes... this is the floor in front of me right now.. I'll have you know the rest of my house is spotless..

and this:

20+ years dancing... 10 toe-nails to show for it. 6 months running... goodbye my wee wee wee wee wee toe-nail.

Post one of the worst pictures of you out there and lets get it over with!! I find myself editing myself quite frequently on my blog when really... BLOGGG what an ugly word- we might as well post a little bit of ugly on it, right?

So here's my ugly picture collage inspired by my sister-in-law Angie... you rule, girl!

That is seriously messed up if I do say so myself

wa wa wa.

ARRR! I really can post any picture now and have no reservations....I've posted worse

The Butt-Chuck

Here' s a few more gems for the co-lage.... enjoy!!!

Ok... everything about Sawyer's birth was so beautiful and miraculous, and I truly am so respectful of my body after that experience... HOWEVER... I really don't understand why my face swelled up like the Stay Puffed Marshmallow Man afterward. I could hardly see out my swollen eyeballs.
Turkey anyone?
ya doyng
moon eyes mcgee
This one's awesome... I never saw Blair Witch.. but this is why I don't see horror movies..

Ok so for those of you who know me, you understand my complete loopiness when I get tired...

So if anyone would like to join in on the dose of reality tag... please do.. what a liberating experience.

Oh, Marky is soooo gonna make me delete this when he gets home... Serves you right for going fishing and leaving me unsupervised with the laptop... I love you TWEETY!!

2008-05-19T18:40:00.000-07:00

MOTHER'S DAY!!

Mother's Day was especially sweet for me this year. Marky was such a sweetheart to me that entire weekend. Saturday was one of my long run days-19 miles... yikes!! and Mark came and brought me a Huge Jamba Juice-- (oh my word... I'm drooling just thinking about it) and a footlong Subway. Both of which I consumed completely in about 15 minutes. Yeah, nursing and training for a marathon makes you HUN-GRY!! Anyway, seeing him at the end of the trail made me so happy! I really wanted to jump in his arms, but I just shuffled to greet him and baby Sawyer.

Sunday was so sweet. Mark surprised me with my chicken- bullion eggs.. yum!, toast and juice for breakfast in bed (it was a good thing because walking was a bit challenging). Anyway he got me these gorgeous orchids that now have a place in our nursery (for those of you who don't know I'm crazy about orchids.. lillies and orchids are my faves!!) ..

and new ipod speakers that I desperately needed- well, okay- wanted. What a sweetheart! Mother's Day weekend was full of my favorites.

So we just started feeding Sawyer Rice Cereal.. What a big boy he is! He's 15 lbs and so tall! He's my little banana boy!

Sawyer did surprisingly well for his first time eating like a big boy. Thanks for the spoons auntie Anne! My favorite part was seeing him blow bubbles in it! I don't know how much actually got in his tummy.. but it was so fun trying!!

My little guy is such a charmer... isn't he?

2008-05-13T22:48:00.000-07:00

He's Here!!

2008-05-13T21:48:00.000-07:00

Elijah Thomas Koskie made his appearance today!!! Hooray!! Hooray!! He was 7 1/2 lbs. and 20 inches long. He has tons of hair and is so sweet and precious. They were glad he came 2 weeks early because he has macho shoulders that actually got stuck on the way out and gave them kind of a scare. But baby and mommy are doing fine now. Jana looks so great and is just glowing!! She is amazing and I'm so happy to have a new little Koskie around.

So the slide and video below is all for all to enjoy, but especially Judy in Oregon... we can't wait until you're here to see this hairy little guy... he is SOOOO cute! Your daughter really knows how to make 'em.. he's gorgeous!

Birthday BASH!

2008-04-27T21:00:00.000-07:00

So I had such a great birthday. Sometimes I have kind of emotional birthdays. This one was just great- I was so spoiled! I have so many awesome people in my life. Thanks everyone for making my birthday so much fun. I love you all!

First- My Mama and Poppi came with
Amber and Easton;Noel and Emarie and we had a mini party.

My mama brought me a yummy ice cream cake and we partied at my house.

Grandpa's little man.

Amber gave me these BEAUTIFUL orchids. Orchids are my favorite flowers and these are so MAGNIFICENT. They seriously have such a presence I feel like they keep me company.

I love these earrings... thanks Angie!

Marky got me roses... AWW

Ok... this MADE my birthday. I get into the car.. and what do I see? I knew immediate what happened. It's my birthday, Mark realizes...oh I better go get a few things...he's talking on the phone and totally spaces out the fact that he's collected this Wal-Mart basket. I LOVE THAT YOU DID THIS TWEETY!! I love it when I realize I'm not the only absent minded one around. I love you, Marky!

Easton kept pulling this crooked bite face... he is so funny!

Jana completely surprised me with this awesome wreath- I love it so much!!

So these BEAUTIFUL flowers are from Ryan and Anne. They made my house so cheery! Thank you guys... you know I'm so spoiled.

Me with my greatest gift. He's taken me to a whole new level of happiness.

Mark and Kathy took us all out for Red Lobster.. YUMMY!

Then Saturday was so much fun- in a nutshell this was how the day went: Pimp my pooch at Amber's Park in the morning; Long run... to read more about that see the marathon blog -what a workout... literally!
Then I headed to the BYU Ballroom Concert with Liberty per Noel and Jake... yahoo! It was so awesome. I miss dancing bad!

Pimp my Pooch was quite the party..

Rufus was quite the show stopper and was awarded "Funnest to watch" after going through the obstacle course. Kelty did pretty good... she kept jumping out of the track though... oops!

Yeah, this was quite the morning... I had Kelty, the Shelties (Taz, Sunny, and Sage) and Minnie all in the back of the Mark's monster truck... it was a bit chaotic at first but then they all got comfortable.

Look at those mugs!!

I was a bit anxious how Kelty would be in a huge group of dogs. She typically gets pretty nervous. But Mark played fetch with her for a bit before and that put her on FOCUS. She listened to every word he said after that.

Sawyer had all these dogs around but he kept his cool.

Sawyer's sleeping and I'm missing him looking at all of these cute pictures.

Here's my little rock star. I love this onesie- thanks Zoraya!

Easton is Sawyer's best little buddy

Our little guys

My big guy and my little guy... Right now he thinks we are hilarious! I expect one day he might discover the truth...

This is Sawyer's 4 mos. picture

He rolls over all the time now.. what a big boy.

Grandmommy loves my little guy

Grandmommy always makes him smile.

TWEETY! TWEETY!

2008-04-08T21:20:00.000-07:00

Husband Tag

So here's a bit about Mark- my Marky. Being married to him has been the blessing that is paramount to my whole existence. He allows me to be the best version of myself. In the areas where we are different we compliment each other. He's brought out a lot more confidence and I've never been more secure being myself. The best think about Mark is that he is genuinely so sweet- very deserving of our pet name for each other, "TWEETY!" (I used to be Sweets.. but it's evolved to 'tweety!"). One of the best and truest observations of him is that he thinks and dreams bigger than most of us dare to so that opens up a lot of possibilities for him. He is unwaivering in his optimism and he knows how to look at the big picture.. To sum it all up- he's amazing and the warmest, cuddliest most loving man I've ever known! I feel so lucky to be with him everyday and I still miss him when he gone even if it's just to the grocery store. I love you Mark. You're still my favorite dream!
Here goes...

What is his name? Mark Jeffrey Sullivan

How long have you been married? 5 years

How did you meet? Well, I'm sure most of you know that we meet in high school. I have this "first memory" of him when he was driving everyone around and I was of course spazzing out in the back seat while he took really sharp corners- anyway, I've told a lot of people this story and as time passes on, I'm wondering if that was him or John Mason... does anyone have any input? Anyway... Mark was a high school hottie no doubt- always unavailable, but always a hottie. The first time I really talked to him was when we both worked at Convergys/Mattrix.. (that's where Liberty met her husband too... who didn't work there?). I was just starting and he helped train me.. he was so sweet and really took care of me.

How long did you date? We dated a bit at the end of high school and before his mission, but nothing too serious. When he got home in November we dated off and on. I think the "off" times really let us know we weren't meant to be apart. Total months dating would probably about 14 months... but when you consider how long we've known each other, I really feel like I've known him forever.

How old is he? 27

Ever seen anything cuter? Sawyer is the red, small version of him and they're both the cutest guys on the planet.
Who eats more? He definitely does... I'm catching up with him though lately... Breastfeeding makes me HUNG-RY!!
Who said "I love you" first? I'm sure I did... I love everybody- and hopefully I've told everyone that I do. I do remember the most romantic thing ever though... Mark might be embarrassed that I'm telling the whole blogging world this, but one night we were just cuddling and he told me that he loved me and he was so sincere... I felt like he was almost crying.. I knew he loved me deeply.

Who is taller? He is by almost a foot- my gentle giant.
Who sings better? We both love to sing so we do. As far as skill, I'm convinced that I'm pretty tone-deaf, so I think he does.
Whose temper is worse? You're talking to about the two most white/blue people...I think mine is worse- we're both pretty slow to react.

Who does the laundry? Me. Mark helps me though when I get overwhelmed.
Who does the dishes? Me and Anne actually.
Who sleeps on the right side of the bed? Sadly, we sleep all around the house... and not together! Sometimes we sleep up in the office, sometimes in our room downstairs... either way in the middle of the night I end up moving into the nursery bed because I've just gotten used to it. I started sleeping in there while I was pregnant because our bed is HUGE and I couldn't get into it at the end.
Who pays the bills? Mark. We try to have our all of our bills auto-withdrawn because we can be a bit forgetful at times... oops!
Who mows the lawn? I did it until we got the riding mower.. haven't done it since then- and YES we do have a riding mower... we're looking forward to retirement.
Who cooks dinner? Umm.... Anne. Thanks, girl! We love ya!

Who drives when you are together? Marky- I'm in the back on binky duty lately.
Who is the most stubborn? I don't think either of us are very stubborn. We try and make each other happy.
Who is the first to admit when they are wrong? Me. I'm wrong a lot.
Whose parents do you see the most? My parents come visit the most, but his parents have a lot of family events... so we're pretty equal.
Who proposed? Mark did. We were in Central Park in NYC and it was so wonderful and surprising. Sometime I'll blog that whole story.

Who has more friends? We almost have the same friends. I think I keep in touch with mine the most.
Who is smarter? Mark is smarter when it comes to everyday common sense stuff and math. I'm smarter about art/ pop culture.

What does he like to do? He loves to camp, fish, go boating, snowboarding. He loves to learn about stocks/financial stuff and investing--oh, did I start snoring?? But mostly he loves to be with his family. I think playing with Sawyer is his new favorite passtime.
Who has more siblings? Mark- He has 4 bros and 4 sis. I have 3 sis 1 bro.
Who wears the pants in the family? I'd like to think we both do, but if I'm trying to be objective... I think Mark does. I'm pretty apathetic- I just want my boys to be happy.

So there's a bit about my love. I'm so happy to share my life with someone as amazing as my Marky. I love him so much. He treats me so well and makes me so happy. What a blessing to have such a great hubby. I LOVE YOU TWEETY!!

Twice Tagged

2008-04-05T23:25:00.001-07:00

So-- my absolutely darling sister Amber and my cute and wonderful sister-in-law Lani have tagged me and I've never gotten around to doing it... oops!

So here's the book tag:
1. Find the book closest to you.
2. Open to page 123.
3. Type the 5th sentence.
4. Tag 5 friends.

The closest book to me was SuperfoodsRX and the sentence is:
"Look for brands of fish oil that lists a small amount of d-alpha tocopherol (vitamin E) on the label."

Yes of course, it wasn't a novel- I only read self-help and informative books... isn't that sad? I think it's because I know I need a lot of help.

Amber's Tag:
1. what time did you get up this morning? Which time? I have multiple wake up times these days. I think the first one was around 4am.
2. diamonds or pearls? Both, but diamonds if I have to choose. Ditto Am.
3. what two things do you always have with you? My wedding ring and a hair tie on my wrist
4. what is your favorite TV show? So you think you can dance and Invention Nation
5. what do you usually have for breakfast? Cereal. I could live off cereal.
6. what is your favorite book? The New Psycho Cybernetics,Sink Reflections, Healthy Sleep Habits, Happy Child --Self help.. anyone?
7. what is your middle name? Eve (I was born on an April Eve a 5pm I think --cheese please)
8. what food do you dislike? I'm really drawing a blank... not anything too spicy
9. what is your favorite CD? A Fine Frenzy, A Child's Prayer
10. what type of car do you drive? Honda Accord or Mark's Monster truck
11. favorite sandwich? Any of Zuppa's panini's
12. what characteristic do you despise? inhumanity
13. favorite item of clothing? wedge heels... thank you Heidi for introducing me to that world
14. if you could go anywhere in the world on vacation, where would you go? New Zealand,Hawaii, Paris, Ireland, Australia, Japan.. Denmark- I really want to get out
15. what color is your bathroom? green and white and gray
16. favorite brand of clothing? American Eagle, Gap
17. where would you retire to? A Sunny Island if my family could come too!
18. what was your most memorable birthday? 16, I had a fun and crazy night with my friends- my good friend Chris gave me a guitar and my friends Katie and Debi gave me flowers and crazy clothes from the dirty (DI) and I was so excited to be 16!!! 21- I thought Mark was going to propose the whole night... we went to this park where we always feed the ducks... it was so romantic- I had to wait for about a month before he actually popped the question in NYC- it was well worth the wait!!
19. favorite saying? I have so many-- tonight I'll go with "This life is the time for purity-- not perfection" but I love "The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams"
20. when is your birthday? 4/10/81
21. are you a morning person or a night person? um... these two things are one in the same to me these days
22. what is your shoe size? 6.5
23. pets? Dog-Kelty Cat-Fiona
24. what did you want to be when you were little? a Dancer, a Banker (because they made money, right?), a Singer, an Olympian, a mom, a missionary, a medical researcher, an environmentalist, a doctor... you get my drift.
25. what is your favorite candy? Caramello- stretch it out!!
26. what is your favorite flower? Orchid- lily a close second
27. what is a day on the calendar you are looking forward to? Thursday is my birthday!
28. what church do you attend? Garden 2nd ward of the LDS church
29. what are you listening to right now? The computing noises of my computer- everyone's asleep... what is wrong with me?
30. what was the last thing you ate? My yummy raw food cheesecake....mmm!
31. if you were a crayon, what color would you be? yellow
32. how is the weather right now? well... it was really windy on my run earlier and now it's really dark and cold
33. last person you spoke to on the phone? Marky--- he was gone forever!
34. favorite soft drink? I don't drink pop, but every once in a while I'll take a swig of Mark's Diet Coke.
35. favorite restaurant? Thai Village, Zupas, Kneaders, Asuka
36. hair color? brown
37. sibling(s)? 4
38. favorite day of the year? Christmas
39. what was your favorite toy as a child? the rope swing in our back yard.
40. summer or winter? Spring or Fall
41. hugs or kisses? both
42. chocolate or vanilla? Chocolate
43. when was the last time you cried? Reading "Are you my mother?" to Sawyer.. Angie's blog about Natalie... yeah, I'm post pardem.
44. what is under your bed? tuttus from Greshko-- hopefully Fiona won't pee on them... again
45. who is the friend you have had the longest? Tierra, Zoraya
46. Favorite smell? My sweet little boy (without a dirty diaper)
47. what are you afraid of? Loosing someone I love.
48. plain, butter or salted popcorn? kettle
49. how many keys on your key ring? 5
50 how many years at your current job? 10 months mommy, mommy-to be
51. favorite day of the week? Sunday- after surviving Primary
52. how many towns/cities have you lived in? Orem, Ut; Provo, UT; Spanish Fork, Ut; Hailey, ID, Pleasant Grove Ut, and Eagle Mountain, UT.
53. do you make friends easily? I would hope to think so.

So I'm going to tag Caroline, Suzanne, Lacy, Leisy and Mandy... go for it if you can/ if you want

Bloggin' 'bout my BIG Boy, Bryce, Baskets, Bunnies, Barbeque, Bubbles, Balls and Balloons

2008-03-28T22:29:00.000-07:00

So Mark and I took Sawyer on his first overnight trip to St. George. We shopped the outlets and drove through Zion's and Bryce Canyon. It was BREATHTAKING!Shopping around with Sawyer was fun. He makes EVERYTHING more fun!

Beautiful boys before a breathtaking Bryce ah... mountain.

It's crazy to think back about high school days. Mark and I went on a geology trip with Mr. Somping or other... do you all know who I'm talking about... Mr. Clark- that's it! I fell asleep every morning in his class.So I've come to appreciate St. Patrick's Day a lot more since I married into the Sullivan Clan. I love being Irish by marriage and having a little red haired son.
I love my little Irish boy. Better than any pot o gold.
Sawyer and Easton looked so cute propped up against each other. It made me think of the many pictures I have like this with my cousins. Ah, the circle of life...

Har's mee little lucky chaahrm. I luv his red har and his wee little smayle.

"Hey, what's up, guys? What's goin' on? I'm just chillin' You?"
My Funny Bunny! This is the picture I plan on showing all of Sawyer's future dates... I love those pink ears! As you can see he got all of the necessities from the Easter bunny. Books, nail files, a sleeper and a stain stick. Yeah, I figured that's what he'd ask for if he could.

Easter was so much fun this year. At the Sullivan's we had an Easter Egg Hunt, played with bubbles and balloons and had yummy BBQ. It was great. This is Sawyer's first balloon. He's absolutely thrilled as you can see.

Mark barbeque'd up a storm at his parents' house. Mmm! Why does everything taste so much better when it's grilled?

Christopher and his little snake basket. I guess Anne really wanted him to pick the cute turtle basket.. but he knew what he wanted... SSSSOMETHING SSSPECIAL.

This is Sawyer's Basketball Egg he "found" at the Sullivan's. My parents gave him his first basketball in his Easter Basket- he had fun watching Easton roll it around today.

This is our Easter bunny Mr. Frodo. He is a Flemish Giant and lives in my basement with Anne, Ryan and Christopher. He played the role well.

"What's he gonna do.. nibble my bum?" Anyone? Anyone?

I love bubbles!!! I'm still captivated by them.. I have a whole dance lesson plan created off of them so I got one of those HUGE rings... so fun! I actually play with them by myself in the tub... you know me!
I hope you all are enjoying this sunshine!

February Fun

2008-02-21T22:07:00.001-08:00

Property of Mom 2 Forever... that's right!! Thanks for the cute onsie, Angie!!

Ok, so this is after Sawyer's second time at church. I have to admit, I mostly just wanted to make sure he got to wear his "church" outfit at least once before he grows out of it. I still don't take him out much... I know, I know... paranoid first time mommy- that's right!

We did manage to take him out for his first walk. I really wanted to use his stroller since that was one of our first purchases as expecting parents. We enjoyed it, he slept. Mark made fun of me for trying to take like 12 pictures for a 10 minute walk. I just told him that I'm a first time mommy and it's my job to record his whole life. I then had a flash of me becoming just like my mom before school dances, chasing us all the way out the door saying, "Just one more! Real quick!"

My little sweetie is 2 feet tall already!! He's taking after my cute hubby.

So this is Sawyer's favorite light fixture... I wonder why????

This ceiling fan is a close second. He loves that thing... it's just like a giant mobile in the sky.

My little champ. I LOVE this outfit on Sawyer. Thanks cousin Jamie!

My little 3 mos. old. Can you believe it? My baby's getting so big!!

Dinner with the Girls

2008-02-21T21:55:00.000-08:00

My girlfriends from high school have a monthly tradition of hosting dinners at each other's houses. I signed up for February despite my complete lack in the cooking department. Thank heaven I had Anne there to help. I bought the wrong cheese and the wrong noodles for the dish.. but she's amazing and made it work anyway. It ended up really good if I do say so myself.

Heather and Bailey, Libby, Ashley, Amber, Jana, me and Anne. Kari Ann and Bode were there earlier and Shannon came at the end. Thanks so much to everyone who came!! We had so much fun. It's always so good to see everyone. We really are so blessed to still keep in touch as well as we do. I can't wait for the dinner in March... whose turn is it next?

2008-02-14T18:36:00.000-08:00

Happy Valentine's Day!

Sawyer and his new Val-pal 'spit bubble'

My Funny Valentine

I love it when Sawyer's wearing ears... it's soo cute!
Such pinch-able cheeks!

I loved this little reindeer outfit- again with the ears... I can't get enough.

Spit bubbles... This is Sawyer's latest trick. What talent! You'll also notice he's inherited my constant hiccups..

Sawyer's Blessing Day

2008-02-10T23:49:00.000-08:00

Dear Sawyer,

Today was your blessing day and there’s so much I want to tell you about! What a crazy day it has been! Some church meetings in Pleasant Grove were canceled because it snowed at least two feet today. It is beautiful and the trees look amazing, but we were worried that not everyone would be able to make it out because of the weather.

We were busy getting ready and you were in your ever-happy mood as usual, sleeping lots and being so cute. When it was time to leave we had to wake you to get ready. Your darling blessing outfit hardly fits and it’s for a 6month old! You are so tall at 24 and ¾ inches but you looked so precious with your full lips and chubby cheeks- you look great in white!

We took daddy’s big monster truck to church so we wouldn’t get stuck in the snow. We got to the chapel about 25 minutes early, which is probably the earliest Mark and I have ever been. I was really worried that you would fuss a lot but you were absolutely wonderful! You loved looking at the bright ceiling and around at the different faces. I could tell that you felt peaceful and that the hymns were really soothing to you, because you would always doze off during the songs.

Your father, along with your great-grandfather, your two grandpas, your uncles and cousins, the Bishop and daddy’s friend, Theron got up to give you a name and a blessing. It was great to see such a huge circle! I think they want you to keep it small but when your dad comes from a family of nine that is a challenge! I just thought it was awesome that you have so many worthy priesthood holders as examples. You have so many people that love you! The blessing was eloquent and I was crying through the whole thing. Afterward, your daddy held you high up over his head--- which that’s pretty high—and proudly showed you off to the ward. They asked me to stand and I was a crying mess, but I stood quickly and waved.

Your dad and I feel so much love for you. You are such a special little guy and you will do amazing things with your life. I hope you grow up to emulate your amazing daddy- and really value your wife and family. I hope you will realize, like he does, that family is what will bring you the most joy.

When I bore my testimony, to say my heart was full would be an understatement- I had so much I wanted to say and I don’t know how well it all came out. That was the first time you heard me bear my testimony, but I hope I will share it with you daily by the way I act, and how I teach you about the world and other people. I want to bear you my testimony now.

I do have a testimony that President Hinckley was a prophet of God. If I imagine meeting with him and telling him all my faults and flaws, I imagine him just saying, “I love you. You can do better. I believe in you.” He truly stood as an example of our loving Heavenly Father. I know that we have a Heavenly Father and a Heavenly Mother who are wonderful. They want us to be happy. They want to cradle and comfort us. They treasure each one of us. We are so special to them. Sawyer, because of you, I understand why the scriptures always refer to posterity as being the source of joy. When you are sleeping I tell you that you are my joy, you are my sunshine. You really are! I had the thought the other day that you even make doing the laundry better because I get to come across your cute and tiny outfits amid all of our big and boring clothes. You have brought us happiness that we have never known before- and this is just the beginning of your precious life! Think of what lies ahead of you! I know Heavenly Father has a plan for you. I know that you will be able to experience a lot of great things. You’ll have fun adventures, you’ll travel, you’ll study, but I know now that what will bring you the most happiness is living the gospel with your family. I know that the gospel is true. All of the blessings in my life have come because of my membership in this church.

I’ve always had a hard time sleeping. When I was young I used to lie awake scheming out how I was going to be Miss America, an Olympic athlete, a missionary, a singer, a dancer and then a wife and mommy. Now I just lie awake thinking of all my blessings! I want to pinch myself when I think of how happy I am. Your daddy loves me so completely- no questions asked. I feel the same for him. There’s nothing either one of us could do that would change that. Your dad and I take care of each other and we’ve always had a good life. Now that you’re here though, the phrase, “not room enough to receive it” comes to mind. I feel I’m busting at the seams with all the Lord has given me. I am so grateful to Him! What a glorious and gracious being He is.

I am so grateful to lie awake appreciating what I have now, instead of thinking of what is yet to be. When I was young, becoming a wife a mother almost seemed so ordinary. I wanted to do something amazing and extraordinary with my life. I wanted to be different from everyone. I wanted everyone to adore me for my talents and accomplishments. As I got older, I actually prayed that when the time came for me to be a mother, that I wouldn’t take it for granted. I prayed for that for years. I don’t know if you will know about this when you read this letter, but before you came to us, we had a miscarriage after three exciting months of making plans. We were told to wait for six months to a year before trying for a baby again. This was pretty crushing at the time, but I realize that it was my answer to prayer. After that loss I came to know and truly feel that it really is the most special thing to be able to have a child. There’s nothing ordinary about it.

I want you to know, Sawyer, that of all the things I’ve wanted to be, of all the things I’ve accomplished in my life, becoming a mother and spending time with you is the most thrilling. It’s the most fulfilling experience I’ve ever had. I’m so grateful to a Heavenly Father who never let me get too far off course. He knew how much I would love being a mommy, so He watched out for me, and didn’t let me get too wrapped up in the things of this world, that my opportunity to be with you would pass me by. That is the most tragic thought to me now. Being your mother is the best part of me, and I never would’ve been able to meet this ‘new creature’ that I am without you. Thank you for being a part of my life’s story, my life’s song.

Well, it’s been a busy but great day. We are both really tired so it’s time for dreams- goodnight my little son, my little sunshine. I love you more than I can say. Mommy

2008-01-31T19:15:00.001-08:00

He's all smiles!! He loves his auntie Amber.

He loves his daddy too!

It's the little things that make him smile.

Like wearing the color blue.

It thrills me to see him smiling! I don't think I've ever been happier.

2008-01-31T18:52:00.001-08:00

My little chubby cherubim

A bouncing we will go... a bouncing we will go..

This is his little reindeer outfit he wore to the Doctor's. We thought he had thrush-- nope! Babies are born with white cysts on the roof of their mouths that form when the palate closes I guess. Oops! Over-medicated already! Anyway, I kept telling Amber how I took him to the "vet" That's how you know you've only raised pets for the last five years. Hee hee!

Yep-- those eyes are staying blue!!

Thar's mee harry lovr.. Mark. Hees a goin wintr campin' dats why hees got them thar wiskers!
Can you believe Sawyer is two months old!!

2008-01-05T01:03:00.001-08:00

Sawyer had his Santa outfit for Christmas Eve, his Christmas pj's and his first Christmas outfit for Chrismas Day... I love dressing my little guy!

Easton is soooo cute! He had a blast off-roading in his Jeep at my mom's house. He loves that thing! He really uses the wheel and looks like he's really navigating with it! Amber will have to put some video of him in it and in his Jump-a-roo-- it's the cutest thing to watch him go for it!

Yeah... it's 10 Am on Christmas morning.. and Mark and I can't help but look a bit sleepy. And yes, I really am wearing my footed pj's from Halloween... they fit a little bit different now. We put Sawyer in Mark's stocking because it's huge! I was totally unprepared for it's size our first Christmas together so only the toes got filled up.. sorry baby! Now I know better.

So I know this picture isn't rotated but it's 2 Am and for some reason my baby is still asleep.. it's been 5 hours. Yahoo! Why am I not sleeping? Good question.. anyway, we put this bow on Kelty and I think she was proud to wear it because she was very well behaved while she had it on. She acted like a beauty pageant girl with a sash. What a girl!

This was Sawyer after our night out with the girls at the Pizza Kitchen. He slept through the entire event, but afterward woke up and decided to sing an aria... doesn't he look like Pavorati in this picture? I love this little dude.

2008-01-05T00:45:00.001-08:00

Santa Sawyer made his first appearance to the Olsen's at the family Christmas party. It was his 1 month birthday.

It's a rough gig being Santa. He got all tuckered out!

Cousin Glory was so strong holding my little bruiser. I think he's 11 lbs. already! I really am surprised at how fast he is growing.

At my mom's she always reads The Littlest Angel, Davey and the First Christmas, and Poochy the Pup. My dad always reads from Luke chapter two. We sit around and visit and drink our Christmas slush... mmm.

At Kathy's all the grandkids act out the Nativity. Sawyer got to be the baby Jesus. It's so cute watching all the little angels!!

2008-01-05T00:29:00.001-08:00

An Ericksen family tradition is taking a Christmas picture. Amber's hubby Bryan is always the photographer and has to jump in our photo shop himself in. What a good sport! This year we took them at my house against my red wall. My mom thought it would be festive. (My brother-in-law Ryan thinks my wall looks like blood... you'll have to decide)

Dinner with the girls is always fun! Look at these gorgeous gals!

This is Sawyer with Uncle (2nd cousin... but who cares, eh?) Earl. Why do I just LOVE seeing my son in hats with ears??

Ryan, Christopher and Anne. Anne is from Denmark and made us a traditional Danish feast. We had goose and potatoes and rice pudding for dessert. What a chef she is!

2008-01-05T00:11:00.001-08:00

December has been a big month for Sawyer. This was his first night out. Isn't he stylin'?

We went to Tucano's to celebrate. Earl and Jana are having another boy. Yippee!!

We realized tons of our Chirstmas traditions revolve around our cat Fiona. Christmas means
1. Fiona versus the tree
2. Fiona versus the tinsel
3. Fiona versus the tree round 2, 3, and 4
4. Fiona relenting and finally sleeping under the tree with all the presents
5. Fiona sleeping in the Nativity (she loves being the center of attention)
6. Fiona versus the gift ribbon (she almost kills me when I wrap presents)
*Just to let you know, while writing this blog I've had to move Fiona away from my water, off of the keyboard, and away from the screen. She loves chasing any kind of mice.

2007-12-12T02:07:00.001-08:00

Hey Everyone! I just wanted to show some of the sweet photographs my friend Suzanne Hart was able to catch. Suzanne- you are amazing!! Mark and I just died over these pictures. Photography says so much- what a great talent to have and share with others. THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU!!!!

This is Mark's favorite picture. It's now the screen saver on all our computers. Isn't he an angel?

Is this kid wearing his daddy's face or what?

This is our nativity baby.

Isn't this just the sweetest? We're a family now and we're so happy.

2007-12-12T01:48:00.000-08:00

Mommy's precious boy

I love that babies have a natural reflex to hold your hand. Why aren't we this guileless?

Mark and I love this little one so much. He has no idea how much joy and light he's already brought to our lives- even from the first day we knew about him. We actually found out about him on March 10th of this year. Last year on March 10th I had my d&c.. I was so grateful to have happy news on that particular day. It was another one of our Father's many tender mercies He's shown Mark and me.

It's so rough being in a basket!

I guess this is the end.

Well, it's almost 1AM...

2007-12-11T23:48:00.000-08:00

I heard once that when a child is born the mother is born also. I didn't really understand this quote until recently.
Sunday was my first day back to church. I hadn't really been out of my little baby world a lot but being there made me feel like a new creature. I'm different-changed. Thanks to my little 9 lbs. 2 oz. of life that I get to hang out with all day and all night, I feel that my capacity to love has just exploded. It's like I'm looking at everyone through different eyes.
In the nursery there was this darling little boy Mason who is just getting used to nursery and he missed his mommy so bad he was pouring out these huge tears down his cheeks. I had to take him to her and I as I was holding him I was just filled with so much love and empathy for this little boy. In his little world this was a major event. I found myself saying to his mom, "He was being so brave" That's what I tell Sawyer when he's upset because we're chaniging his diaper, taking a bath, getting him dressed, etc. In his world these things are HUGE and so he has to be comforted through them. It made me think about perspective. How many things in our lives are HUGE- but our Heavenly parents know them to be inconsequential but still they soothe us through them anyway.
There was also this teacher who didn't have any students this week so she could go to Relief Society. She's a middle-aged mom but she was really nervous about going to Relief Society so I asked her if she wanted me to go with her for a few minutes. Anyway, I ended up staying there with her until the end because otherwise she would've sat all alone on the front row. I'm really glad I did. She's older than me, but I felt like I wanted to cradle her and protect her and make sure she knew she wasn't alone. I really feel that this new love I have for my Sawyer is helping look at others in a more Christ-like way. We are all children who just want to be loved and taken care of!
The other experience I had on Sunday was after feeding Sawyer he fell asleep all cuddled and sweet on my shoulder. I thought this was a perfect opportunity to get some reading in, so I started reading this book our pediatrician gave us (it's the closest thing anyone has to an owner's manual for a baby). Anyway, as I was reading I had this strong thought come to my mind, "Never multi-task when it comes to Sawyer." I thought that was pretty powerful, so I put my book away and just enjoyed the time I had cuddling with my little boy. (Yup, I'll probly neva reed anuther buuk in ma life! Hee Hee) I started thinking about what a precious time this is. I'll never have this time with Sawyer again. I know it's not very realistic to not multi-task when you have more than one child, but for me and my situation in life right now, I can afford to take a nap with my boy for a few hours and not worry about time wasted. I was really grateful for those realizations.

2007-12-05T20:42:00.001-08:00

Here's Sawyer's first teddy bear. His Auntie Noel brought this for him right after he was born. I thought that was so sweet of her.

This is Sawyer's first car ride. I get a kick out of how Mark loves to bundle- he knows how cold I get so whenever we go camping he's always bundling me up and making me the softest, warmest spots to sleep in.. it's so cute- this boy was so comfy on his ride home... Mark loved the little cover Amber brought us. He said, "Oh yeah, no breeze is getting in there!"

This was Sawyer's first morning at our home. He did really good the first night.

This is after his first bath. He really didn't like it too much. Mark got him all clean, my mom filmed it, and I was on binky duty. Between the three of us he got pretty clean.

This was his first time in the swing. He was absolutely thrilled as you can see. We know he must like it because he can sleep for hours in that thing!

2007-12-05T20:37:00.001-08:00

So I know it's December but I'm still in the Thanksgiving mood. I wonder why... maybe because I have soooo much to be grateful for. My heart is so full!! Thank you all for your sweet comments on our last post. I wrote this 5 page letter to Sawyer and those were the best clips from it. I wrote about his birth in so much detail because I want to remember it and I'm already starting to forget some little things. Oh.. I love that little boy so much. Being a mommy is the best! I'm so grateful for the opportunity. Anyway, here are a few more things that I'm really grateful for.

The first thing is that my days are going by so much faster now. At the end of my pregnancy I swear each day was 57 hours long!! Mark was so great to me. He knew I was getting restless with the usual pregosoraus wreck pastimes like watching t.v, taking a bath, playing free cell, surfing the net and everyones blogs, etc.. so he brought home a puzzle for us to put together and that was really sweet. He's such a thoughtful husband... I'm so lucky to have him!

2007-12-05T15:06:00.000-08:00

Anne my sister-in-law is so amazing! Right now she and Ryan and their son Christopher live in our basement. They are always serving us. Anne is always thinking of others. She had these gorgeous flowers and a little Christmas outfit for Sawyer waiting for us when we got home. She cooks for us a lot- and for those who know me and how clumsy I am in the kitchen that is a HUGE blessing. I'm so grateful for Anne's example. She's one of those people I'm really glad I have the chance to get to know better.

This is my OB, Dr. Saunders. I was so grateful we caught him on his day on-call for the delivery. He was going out of town for Thanksgiving so we just barely imposed on his vacation. He is such a great doctor and I was 100% pleased with him and all the nurses- they were wonderful!

Mark and I are so lucky to have both sets of grandparents nearby. Grandparents are so much fun, aren't they? Sawyer is already loved by a great group of people.

I'm so in love with this little guy! I can't get over how many facial expressions this one little creature can make! I love all of his little noises too! He's so much fun to have around. I love him to bits!

2007-12-05T14:51:00.001-08:00

This is for Suzanne. I'm sure all of you moms can relate to why I'm grateful for this little life saver!

Liberty was in Colorado when Sawyer was born, but it was so fun to have her come and visit for the first time. We're very thankful for visitors these days. It's so much fun to see everyone.

Adam and Mily came right after Sawyer was born. My face was like double the size because of the iv fluids so I think I was a bit scary. I'm glad the swelling has gone down. I couldn't even recognize myself for awhile after delivery-- my face was like the good year blimp!

I'm grateful to have two sisters who became mothers before me. They always have good advice for me!

Isn't Amber gorgeous! I love this picture of her and Sawyer. She looks like an angel!

2007-12-05T13:31:00.001-08:00

I'm so grateful for my beautiful mom who was Sawyer's first babysitter while Mark and I went to see The Sasquatch Gang- by the same directors of Napoleon Dynamite. I thought it was pretty funny... I was laughing hysterically, but I'm in my constant state of late-night delirium these days so I don't know if I'm a great critic right now.

I love seeing all of his facial expressions. Even if this is a poop-induced smile I'll take it!still love to see it!

I love those moments that make you laugh really hard. After we set up our Christmas tree, Fiona decided to get in on the festive spirit and jumped in the decorations. I thought it was cute so I grabbed my camera and caught her in the middle of a yawn. (If you look really close you can see her one and only fang). Anyway, just after I took it our tree fell right where she was so I told Mark that was her facial expression as the tree was coming at her. I laughed pretty hard about that. She's got those cat-like reflexes so she was was a fine feline.

I love the newborn stage!! I feel so blessed that we haven't had any illnesses or problems with feeding or sleeping. We are extremely blessed. Sawyer is such a content, easy baby so far. I'm so grateful for his long stretches of sleep and for all the help Mark gives me. He'll take him for the whole night so I can get some sleep sometimes.

I make up dialogue for Sawyer in my head. Mostly he's saying, "Mommy, what are we doing this for?" or "Mommy, I'm ready to eat" in this one he's saying, "Hey, How you doin'?"

2007-11-29T20:40:00.000-08:00

Dear Sawyer,

I thought I would take this time I have while you are sleeping to tell you about the best day your dad and I have ever had. It was seven days ago when you came into our lives. I just want you to know all about that important day and all the details.

On Wednesday I had a high water leak, but I wasn't completely sure so I just started cleaning the house and making sure all the laundry was done, etc. I got in the shower after mopping up the bathroom and while I was doing my hair I felt a pretty significant gush of water- Auntie Amber teased that if that happened our dog Kelty would come and lick it up—but she was outside and the mop was right there so we avoided that scenario. Your dad had been out doing a few errands for work and was going to be back in 45 minutes to an hour but I called him and said, “I need you. We need to go right now.”

We were admitted around 2:20 and around 4:10 Dr. Saunders arrived and checked me and said that the bag of waters wasn’t all the way ruptured so he broke it but I barely noticed. Your dad said, “I’ve been wanting to do that for three weeks now.” And Dr. Saunders said, “Well, you got your wish.”

At around 5:00 they came and took my blood to check for signs of pre-eclampsia (which I never knew you could get during labor but you can). They ended up giving me Magnesium Sulfate to help avoid seizures.

Because I started pushing around 9:25 everyone thought you would be born around 10 or 10:30. Well, it ended up taking a bit longer. Your daddy started teasing that maybe you would be born on Thanksgiving like he was if this lasted until midnight. We were about one push away from having you here at around 11:56- so your dad said, “Maybe we should rest during the next two contractions” In my mind I didn’t think we were so close because they had been telling me for quite some time that we were almost there, so I was grateful to have a little breather. Well at 11:59 another contraction started and our nurse said, “I think we’re close enough” so your dad counted “Push 1..2..3..” and you came!! I was surprised and thought to myself, “It worked this time!” And you were here at 52 seconds past midnight. A thanksgiving baby like your dad.

My first impression of you was that you were really long! I was instantly in love with you and called to you as they took you to the table saying things like, “Hey baby, can you hear me? I’m so glad you’re here. We’ve waited so long to have you. I can’t believe it’s our son! I’m so happy.” I was just gushing out to you! I truly felt so genuinely happy.

2007-11-29T17:37:00.000-08:00

They took you and measured you and I guess you peed all over the nurses…serves them right for having to scrub you so hard- hee hee! Everyone was surprised to find out you were 19” and 8 lbs. 15.2 oz. It really didn’t shock me. Although I measured on the small side you felt big inside me- always very active and making huge motions. You were just perfect for me and my body.

After they measured you Mark got to hold you and seeing him as a father for the first time made me cry. He was glowing with pride and just radiating so much love for you.

Then they brought you to me and I remember thinking you had the cutest lips and a little button nose like Ruston and Damaris’ kids. I thought you were absolutely beautiful. They said you had auburn hair… I couldn’t believe it! Your dad and I never thought we could have a red haired child. Only time will tell if it stays that way. I couldn’t believe I was looking at my boy.

2007-11-29T17:07:00.000-08:00

My family started to come in and my dad held you first and that was really special- I love my daddy so much.

My mom and Amber helped me feed you for the first time and you did really well- at almost 9 lbs. you came into this world hungry.

Aside from meeting you, the very best thing that I gained from your birth was that I’ve fallen in love with your daddy all over again. I first fell in love with a buddy from high school. Now I’m in love with the father of my child. He is so crazy about you and seeing that melts me to the core. He’s so excited to feed you, burp you, bathe you, and try out all of your toys like the swing and the bouncer. He especially loves giving you a bottle. While giving you one he said, “I could get used to this.” He was so completely there for me during your birth- the time when I needed him the very most. Your birth has brought us closer to one another and that is exactly what I wanted out of our birthing experience. We are so in love and we are so head over heels for you.

We have this orchid that hasn’t bloomed since we got it almost two years ago. When we came home from the hospital two beautiful yellow flowers had bloomed and it really touched me to see the symbolism of watering this non-flowering plant for two years and to finally see those happy flowers on the day we brought you home. Your dad and I have wanted you here for so long and now I just want to wrap every moment in a box and keep it forever. I have everything now that I have you. When I hold you I think of how you are Heavenly Mother’s son and I want to be as much like her as I can and raise you like she would. Well, I gotta go… you’re crying and I’ve got to go wipe away your tears. I love you son. Mommy

2007-11-09T11:03:00.000-08:00

These are a few of my favorite things...
Since it's November, I figured I would blog about all the things I'm grateful for. It really is crazy because I planned on starting with all the little things, but then I just keep thinking of more and more- like the fact that Amber and I still laugh deliriously when we get tired- lately our favorite is "Lay off me I'm starving!!!" (If any of you have seen that Chris Farley sketch..) anyway, and how my doctor told me about this mom in the delivery room who started out like, "Oh, I'm good, I'm good" and then switching to "Give me the epidural" like Chris Farley.. anyway I love getting a good laugh in.
Here are a few more of my favorite things-

2007-11-09T10:47:00.001-08:00

Okay, this is a really small thing, but for me it's a big deal. I'm not a naturally organized/spotless person at all, I really have to work at it. My bathroom was pretty much a mess with all my "gear" and I would always spread it out all over the counter and I literally drove Mark out of our bathroom into the kitchen bathroom.. oops! Anyway, since I haven't been working I've had time to basically gut my house and get it organized and cleaned up before the new arrival and I'm so happy. My bathroom is so much more functional and relaxing!! I know it's kind of a weird thing to be so excited about, but I stressed over our disorganized, messy house all last year when I was working, but there was no time for me to focus on it. I'm so happy I've been able to paint and get things the way I really want them- it really gives me peace.

This is an orchid my friend Jana gave to me almost two years ago. It had these beautiful yellow flower at first and is only now starting to get blossoms again (I didn't know I was supposed to cut the stalk down to 2"). I'm so excited for when I get to see this flower in bloom again! I love orchids and lilies- they are so beautiful!

This is a wall sconce that I just hung in my bathroom. I love lighting is all up at night and taking long baths... it's so relaxing and I know it's a treat that I probably won't get to enjoy as much once our little one is here. That's okay though, I'm living it up now!

2007-11-09T10:12:00.000-08:00

This probably makes some of you cat haters cringe... but Fiona will come purr right in my ear and it actually really helps me relax. I'm so uncomfortable lately that I get really tense at night. She's like my Tylenol PM that I'm usually addicted to.

Mark and I also decided that she needed a little bath before the baby comes, so he put on two pair of really long wool socks over his arms and dunked her in the bath. She still got him soooo bad! She cried like a baby---maybe that was a mistake!

Fiona is also learning not to get in the baby gear like the pack-n-play, the carseat, the bouncer, etc.. Well, the other day I caught her in the bassinet and I keep a water gun in the nursery for just such an occasion. I started to skirt her and expected her to jump out immediately, because she hates water (as mentioned in the story above) but she just laid there in shock like, "What are you doing to me?" Finally I stopped getting her body and got her on the forehead and she jumped out... She is one crazy kitty!

Mark is the sweetest husband ever!! He paints my toenails for me now that I can't reach them. He does a pretty good job, eh? It's so cute to see his huge hands try and manage the tiny brushes. He's getting the technique down. Whenever I think about that story about the elderly man who did his wife's nails that Elder Wirthlin shared in conference I start to cry because of what Mark does for me. It's one of those small things that really mean a lot.

Husbands are the best! Yesterday I was having a slight emotional melt down just because I'm so tired and uncomfortable, and I want to do things, but I'm too lazy, and I want Sawyer to come, but I'm nervous about actually being a mom, and I want him to be healthy and the delivery to go well.... yadda yadda- I'm sure all of you mommies have been there. Anyway, Mark found me bawling in the tub and he's like, "We need to go to Kneaders and a park for lunch" So we went to Kneaders, (my fav) and ate at the Scera Park and swung on their swings. I wish I had a picture of me in my 9 mos. pregnant glory swinging on a swing. My shadow looked pretty funny. He totally cheered me up- he is the absolute best! I love him so much!

Mark also surprised me by picking up our crib. Since we already have a bassinet and a pack-n-play that he can use for awhile, we were planning on getting it around Christmas to kind of spread out the baby expenses, but he just went and picked it up, along with this wedge pillow Zoraya told us about. It goes under your belly to help support all that extra weight. Good call Zoraya- I love that thing!! That seriously meant a lot to me that he would surprise me like that.

This is my new favorite cd. It's "One Cell in the Sea" by A Fine Frenzy. If you don't have it- you should get it- trust me you'll LOVE it! I honestly listened to it for days in a row when I first got it. I've backed off now, but I want to learn how to put tunes on my blog just so you guys can hear this band... they rule!!! So, if anyone can tell me how to do that it would be great!
I heard the first track playing at Barnes and Noble and knew I had to buy it. It's my favorite song lately and it's called, "Come on Come out" do you think that has anything to do with my pregnancy???

2007-11-04T23:29:00.001-08:00

Happy Halloween!

2007-11-04T23:23:00.000-08:00

Halloween was so much fun this year! We had a doctor's appointment that morning where I drew a jack-o-latern on my urine sample... the nurses must think I'm crazy... but I'm not- just festive. We found out that I'm at a 2.5 and 80% effaced- pretty crazy, eh? It's getting closer!

This is the first year Mark and I dressed up and celebrated Halloween. How could you not dress up with an accessory like my prego-belly?

2007-11-04T23:07:00.001-08:00

The teletummy and the grungy pirate

I was trying to take his facial hair off with a kiss.

This was the best I could do.

Zoraya showcasing the tummy. Man, soon I'm going to pop!

2007-11-04T22:09:00.000-08:00

Amber and Bryan... mullets rule!! and their little Eyeore

Mad Scientist Ruston and little bunny Hailey

I decided to go with the "Teletummy" and Marky was Fall
for the family party. He made his costume 15 min. before the party by hot gluing leaves outside to his shirt.

I helped out at the ward Halloween Party with the Primary cakewalk.

After all that we went to Anahi's party. Nick and Zoraya... very appropriately Greek god and goddess.

2007-10-27T21:53:00.000-07:00

Tag-- I'm it!

The rules...player lists 6 facts/habits about themselves at the end of the post, player then tags 6 people and posts their names, then goes to their blog and leaves a comment, letting them know that they have been tagged and asking them to read our blog for the rules!

1. I REALLY never cook. Some of you may think that you never cook... but I truly haven't turned on my oven/stove in ... to be honest, I really don't remember the last time I turned that thing on! I don't know why I have such a resistance to it- but I do. Poor Mark- his mom is like a gourmet cook.

2. I can't get over the feeling of my baby moving inside of me and I don't think I ever will! It still amazes me, surprises me and makes me a bit seasick!

3. I never read directions... that's probably why I don't cook and usually don't do the "tag" things like this. I would much rather wing something or have someone else read the directions and show me how to do it. Last summer I made a bedspread with no pattern as kind of a stress relief- if I would have had a pattern and instructions it would have stressed me out!

4. I recently saw a story about a guy trying for the world record for the biggest hairball. He is a barber and is using all human hair- I guess. I really think I could whip this guy's tail if I collected all of Kelty's hair that I sweep and vacuum off my floor.

5. I keep Mark awake at night giggling, crying, or yawning. Everything is extra funny or extra sad to me as I lay in my bed. The other night, even though he was completely exhausted, he said as politely as he could, "Um, could you maybe keep your yawns to a minimum?" I guess I was yawning loudly in his ear incessantly. Sorry honey!

6. I love the Dog Whisperer and I've probably seen every single episode. It makes me cry! I think all of his principles apply to so many other scenarios in life. I feel really guilty watching it though because I know Kelty doesn't get enough exercise.

I'm tagging Amber, Katie, and Jill... hope to hear from you three ladies!

2007-10-15T00:06:00.002-07:00

Thanks so much to everyone who came and everyone who helped with my baby shower! I feel so grateful to have a wonderful and supportive group of friends. I realize what a rare thing it is for people to stay in touch like we do and I think it's so important. I always feel energized and inspired by you all. What a tremendous blessing friends are. Thanks for making me feel so loved! That is the best feeling in the world!!
Me and Heidi at the shower. I kind of look like I have a lazy eye in this picture... but hey, what can you do? I recently watched a show about how laughter really is so good for your body and how people who laugh a lot are healthier and recover quicker, etc.. It made me think of Heidi... she must be one of the healthiest people I know.

Krissa and Jenna.. what cute cousins! These girls crack me up!
Doesn't Krissa make all our get togethers so much better with the yummy food she makes? What a talented girl.

Somebody cracked Libby up.. Oops! Laughter will do that to you sometimes.

I'm just kidding. Libby really didn't pee her pants. I just wanted to clarify that for posterity's sake.
Yay! Jamie, Heather and Bailee are here!

2007-10-14T23:48:00.000-07:00

Me with Zoraya, Izrael, Elsa and abuelita Maria. I was so happy to see the Muntzing girls. Elsa was the most loving teacher I've ever had! Muchas gracias por todo! Te amo mucho!

Me with Ruth, Anahi, Aiden and Adriana

Zoraya with little Izrael. I loved hearing Zoraya's giggle again.

Inge, Anne, Jamie, Glory, Maria, Elsa and Haven all cooing over the darling gifts.

2007-10-14T22:57:00.002-07:00

I was so happy to see Julie and Angie at my shower. I remember our days as roommates. They were so much fun to live with. We laughed a lot that summer.

Me with Ruth, Adriana and Haven. I love that I'm still in touch with friends from elementary school. I really think that's a special thing.

I ran into Jamie at Babies R Us just recently. I love it when you reconnect with people when you're able to actually keep in touch. Jamie has two little ones of her own now. Shay and Evan

Amber Bryan and Easton

Kari Ann and I... cheese!!

2007-10-14T22:46:00.001-07:00

Boxing Ben

Liberty and Travis... giddy about their wedding gifts

Mark and I took 10 weeks of the Bradley Method birthing class. Mark was a good sport about watching all the completely unedited birthing videos... I just about passed out. I'm glad I won't be the one watching... eek!

Mark's Muddy Monster Truck

I really miss Mark when he goes hunting... but I'm glad he spends time out in our beautiful world... stalking helpless animals.

2007-10-14T22:26:00.001-07:00

Yippee! It's Jana and Benjamin!!

Easton parties at Christopher's 1st

Christopher's 1st cake... not too sure at first. Can I really make a mess mom?

Oh yeah! I'm lovin' it now!

Two babies in box.. Madison and Hailey

2007-09-20T16:27:00.001-07:00

Liberty and the love of her life, Travis Monson

This is Marky opening his gift. I took the video we had from our wedding and edited it so it would be watchable. The original tape has ya know... 5 minutes of the camera left on in the car, 10 minutes just chillin' on the tripod with no one in front of it. I finally realize why videographers dub music over their film... people sound crazy and say weird stuff if they don't realize they're being recorded!!

My tummy is my favorite accessory lately... I don't know what's up with my face though...

Seven months and counting!! I'm already anticipating our big day when we finally get to meet little Sawyer True Sullivan (if that's the name we keep!!)

Liberty's Big Day

2007-09-20T16:16:00.000-07:00

I've never been so proud of my tummy. I thought I would be embarrassed by it.. nope! Mark and I laugh about it all the time. I'm either going to be A bowling ball, a"Buddah belly" "Tella-tummy" or a C-section for Halloween. My vote is for the C-section... that is the scariest thing to me lately!!!

Liberty's shower was a lot of fun. We got some of her sizes wrong, though.. Oops

My mom was hilarious at the shower! She definitely enjoyed teasing Liberty the most. We modeled all the "lingerie" after the civilized company left.

Jana, Benjamin and Earl at Liberty's Reception

Mark is such a hottie!!!

2007-09-20T16:04:00.001-07:00

This is Little Em and I at the Music Man Play

Mark and I had a great anniversary... We stayed in the same room that started off our honeymoon,

we took time to fed the geese,

and we went to the Grand Canyon... just kidding. We went to the Museum of Natural History and saw the Toadally Frogs exhibit. Yeah, we're geeks like that.

Mark has been able to provide us with a lot of meat for the next year with his archery hunting... I spared y'all the more graphic pictures.

Summertime and the living is... busy!

2007-09-20T15:57:00.000-07:00

This is the beautiful bride to be at her shower...

2007-08-06T22:04:00.001-07:00

Bathing beauties on the boat.

McKenna and Dean on the tube... what a trooper.

Madison loved the sun. I was constantly slathering sunblock on that fair little one.

Mark and Kathy on the boat. They were so brave!

Christopher in his little crab. He didn't know what to think of it at first, but loved it once he got used to it.

2007-08-06T21:51:00.001-07:00

Picking up Liberty at the airport after getting engaged!! She gets married on September 7th. We are so excited!! Travis Monson will soon join our family.

Mark and I went to Bear Lake over the 24th of July. We spent a few days with Mark's entire family. Mark had fun riding the horses. It just took a minute to figure out the reigns.

This is our darling niece Hailey. She looks like quite the pro already.

Mark loved taking his nieces and nephews out on the boat. They all had tubing stories to tell over the next few days.

2007-08-06T21:31:00.001-07:00

Painting my house has been a fun project for me this summer. Mili and Adam inspired me with their home.

They were so sweet to bring our baby boy his first outfit after we had our ultrasound.

2007-08-06T20:31:00.001-07:00

This is a way old picture, but hey, I'm just learning how to do this stuff. This was taken when Mark and I lived in Hailey, Idaho. I'm holding Minnie- a chihuahua that Mark still insists is a cat.

Mark and April Sullivan

2007-08-06T20:27:00.000-07:00

So this is my very first blog entry. Yup, don't really know what to say