The Phipps Family

i heart faces: hearts

2012-02-13T14:56:00.001-07:00

the theme this week at i heart faces is hearts...just in time Valentines Day!

embrace the camera: 2/9/12

2012-02-09T14:06:00.000-07:00

homework...

the kids are doing so well in school

it makes me beam with pride!

collin has begun to read...

and sophie is a spelling whiz!

we don't always look forward to homework time...

but i treasure those one-on-one moments where we learn.

linking up here

V-Day Craft

2012-02-08T11:41:00.000-07:00

Last Saturday we made a super simple Valentines day craft. It was so easy, and the kids LOVED it. They love crafts...of any kind.

Lyla, Month V

2012-02-04T21:48:00.001-07:00

To My Lyla:

As I sit here writing this letter to you, you sit contentedly on my lap. At 5 months, you are such a happy content baby...as long as you are being held. You LOVE to be in someones arms. And who can resist your chubby cheeks, big eyes, and fly away hair! If I don't quickly come to your rescue, your Daddy or big sister, Sophie does.

Although you are held a lot, you have mastered the art of rolling. For several weeks you have been rolling from your back to your tummy always getting upset that you were stuck on your dreaded tummy. But in the last couple of days, you have learned just how to go from your tummy to your back. Each time it startles you but if I follow it with a "Yeah Lyla!" you seem pretty pleased with yourself.

My favorite thing about you this month is the way you flap your arms and kick your legs in excitement when you see something that you like. It is the cutest thing ever. I go get you from a nap...you flap your arms and kick your legs. I come into the room while you are playing on the floor...you flap your arms and kick your legs. Your sisters and brothers do a little dance to entertain you...you flap your arms and kick your legs. I can't get enough of it. I hope it isn't something that you quite doing anytime soon!

I love you to he moon and back! Happy 5 months baby girl!
Love,
Your Momma

a month in photos...January

2012-02-01T20:29:00.000-07:00

At the start of the year, I really wanted to do a picture a day project. While I do take out my camera on most days, there are days, weeks even where I don't and I just knew that it was going to stress me out. And with a new baby I knew that I really didn't need to add one more thing to my already long list of things that may or may not get done. So when I came across the month in photos from simple as that I was stoked. This was just what I needed. A less stress photo project that captures my kids, our life, and still lets me work on my photography skills! Hooray!!!

So here it it...January in photos!

In January we spent a lot of time at home...

...celebrating Dad's birthday...we love him!

...painting our toe nails

...reading stories

...doing everyday things...bath time

...legos, legos, and more legos

...playing with toys

...napping

...and enjoying one another

there was also...

...BMX races for Logan and Collin

...SEP conferences...the kids are doing so well in school

...doctor visits...well checks ups!

...weight watchers meetings

...exercise!!!

...and ballet for Sophie

Tuesday

2012-01-31T19:07:00.000-07:00

Wow! I can't believe it is the last day of January already. January, along with February, are usually the l o n g e s t months of the year for me. The holidays are over and we are stuck with the cold and yuck for several more months. But the days are busy and the months seem to be cruising along. Here are some simple moments captured during our busy day.

Saturday

2012-01-28T15:34:00.000-07:00

I LOVE lazy Saturday mornings
where we get to just ... be!
Be together.
There is nothing better.

Monday

2012-01-23T16:29:00.000-07:00

Where's Lyla?

Monday is laundry day.
The job that never ends!
Often times it seems that it is filling the baskets faster that I can wash it!
But it's not that bad...
it could be the bathroom
or the kitchen floor!
I despise cleaning the bathroom...
and mopping!
And at least I have some company! {grin}

embrace the camera: january 19

2012-01-19T17:00:00.000-07:00

Lyla is so happy and smiley lately. I can't get enough of her. No one can. She is the highlight of everybody's day. I just love her.. <3

And did you know, toes are the best treat ever!!!
love when she puts them in her mouth!

the simple things

2012-01-17T14:37:00.001-07:00

this weeks simple things:

bath time!

Happy Birthday Logan!

2012-01-15T06:00:00.000-07:00

32 years ago today, logan made his entrance into this world...

and we are sooOOooo glad that he did!!

the kids and i had fun making this little movie for him...enjoy!

embrace the camera: january 12

2012-01-12T12:37:00.000-07:00

the boys were out playing on saturday

so us girls decided to have some fun too!

January 10th

2012-01-11T16:32:00.003-07:00

Collin has recently discovered a love for legos. He received some money for Christmas and decided that it was time to spend it...on legos! I took him to the store after school and he spent the rest of the day creating his lego masterpiece only stopping long enough to eat!

the simple things

2012-01-09T18:10:00.002-07:00

this weeks simple things:

sweet baby girl looking up at me in her crib

and

big sister adoration!

i want these moments engraved in my memory

they will be gone before i know it!

Stats At Four Months

2012-01-06T15:02:00.000-07:00

Lyla's Four Month Stats:

Weight: 14 pounds 8 ounces

{55th Percentile}

Height: 27.5 inches

{95th Percentile}

Head: 16 1/2 inches

{55th Percentile}

The doctor wasn't much help in the eating arena...sigh!

But she is thriving and healthy and cute as can be

I can't ask for more than that!

Lyla, Month IV

2011-12-31T21:47:00.000-07:00

To My Lyla:

It's time for your 4 month letter. You are growing up too quickly. I am truly treasuring each and every minute I get to spend with you. I want to freeze time. Make it so you can't grow up, and yet I know that isn't fair...or possible. With your sister, Sophie, I was always wishing for the future, but with you I just want to stay little forever. And ever.

Your eating has improved soooo much this past month. I am finally not having to force you to eat every. single. bottle. only some of them! And you are quite the picky little eater. You only want your bottles from mommy. No way will you take one from daddy. It seems that often times you are more content to chew on your fists than you are to take a bottle. But there are those times where you do surprise me and scream out that you are hungry! But despite these feeding issues, you are gaining weight well and and growing good, so I am happy.

You love company. Whenever you are left in a room alone, you talk out and scream until someone comes in. Just this morning you woke up super early. I fed you and put you in your swing when your eyes told me that you were not interested in going back to sleep any time soon. I went back to my room hoping to get some more sleep before the other kids woke up, but before long you were screaming out. I came into your room, laid on the bed where you could see me and went to sleep. You were quiet as can be. You just needed someone to be with you! Your sisters and brothers are also really good at keeping you company. Almost daily they surround you with toys and entertain you as best they can. Quite often I will find Sophie carrying you around. This always gives me a small heart attack as I am afraid she is going to accidentally drop you, but you don't seem to be afraid and rather like her toting you around.

This past month you have found your feet. If your hands aren't in your mouth, they are usually holding on to your feet. I think it is the cutest thing ever. I can't wait until I capture it with my camera! You still aren't rolling, although I can't help but think that with all the physical therapy we have been doing for your torticollis {which is coming along nicely!} that you will be soon. But truly I am okay with you not being mobile yet!

You are simply adored by everyone. Happy four months Lyla Bug!
Love,
Your Momma

Celebrating 9 Years

2011-12-31T20:21:00.000-07:00

picture by Jami Caldwell

On December 28th Logan and I celebrated our ninth wedding anniversary. It is absolutely crazy to me that we have been married for nine years. I love him more and more everyday. What an amazing husband and father he is. I consider myself so lucky to be spending everyday with my best friend.

We were able to spend most of the day together! We started out at a local spa where we participated in a couples teaching massage. It was so relaxing a fun! A little overwhelming at times with all the information we were trying to take in but something very fun to do together! Later on, we headed off to a nice dinner for two. The food was good, and the company was even better!. We shared some memories of our wedding day and of the past nine years ... it was so nice to just be together. There is nothing better than a night out on the town with my man!

Happy nine years babe!
Love you.

Lyla Smiles!!!

2011-12-29T16:48:00.000-07:00

Lyla has been smiling for a while now, but I haven't ever been able to catch it with my camera until now. She has been pretty stingy with her smiles ... and every time I pull out my camera she looks at me like I am an alien. However, the other night she was watching me do the dishes {fun I know!} and she was so smiley so I thought I would try to capture her cute little grin. And what do you know, I got it!! Love this cute little girl.

Christmas '11

2011-12-29T15:26:00.002-07:00

Our Christmas this year was wonderful.

The time that we spent together as a family was so special and sweet and fun. I'll never forget it.

Christmas was a little different for us this year ... Logan was scheduled to work on Christmas Eve and Christmas day so with permission from Santa of course, we celebrated on the 23rd.

Although number on the calendar read wrong, it was still Christmas in our home.

It was wonderful.

Our day looked a little like this:

the kids coming down Christmas morning

We woke the kids up at 7:00

Grandmas and Grandpas were anxiously waiting downstairs

Sophie immediately put on her reindeer antlers that she had been saving in her bed for weeks and grabbed Jingle {we can't leave him out!}

The kids bolted down the stairs and eagerly assessed all that Santa had brought them.

We opened presents

ate a yummy breakfast

and spent the rest of the day playing with toys and being together!

Collin with Bey Blades

Ruby with Strawberry Shortcake

Sophie with dolls and roller skates

Lyla with anything that she could fit into her mouth!

That night we made a turkey and feasted together ...

thinking about all that we are blessed with.

What a magical time of year that we get to be together and celebrate the birth of our Savior, Jesus Christ.

Merry Christmas

2011-12-24T15:27:00.000-07:00

Santa

2011-12-24T09:30:00.001-07:00

Ruby wanted nothing to do with the man dressed in red from his head to his foot!

tummy time

2011-12-20T13:04:00.002-07:00

feelin' like Christmas

2011-12-19T21:05:00.001-07:00

The tree is up

Twinkling lights are all around
Letters to Santa are written
We've been singing Christmas Carols ... I {love} listening to Ruby sing Jingle Bells
"Elfy" our Elf on the Shelf is here ... and up to a little mischief!

There is ~~a lot~~ some snow on the ground
Christmas stories are being read ... sometimes under the Christmas tree

The days are being counted down
Family Christmas parties are underway

The stores are filled with last minute shoppers ... including me!
We had a visit from Jolly Old Saint Nick himself!

Christmas Cards are addressed and sent ...
and
boy is it cold outside!!

It's feelin' like Christmas!
I love this time of the year.

The Nutcracker

2011-12-15T16:25:00.001-07:00

One of Sophie's wants this Christmas was to go see the Nutcracker ... and Logan made it happen. He purchased two tickets for Sophie and I to go! It was such a fun night hanging out with my girl!

She was sooOOo excited! We dressed up all fancy like and headed off to the ballet. She could barely contain herself when she saw the Capital Theatre all lit up with giant Nutcrackers in the window.

We were a little early so we went across the street and indulged in some yummy hot cocoa and creme brulee!

Delicious!

Sophie took a couple sip of her hot cocoa and then danced around the little restaurant showing me all of her ballet steps she has been learning in her class.

Soon it was time to head inside ... but not without some pictures! I just love her excited smile!

Once inside she couldn't think about anything but a nutcracker souvenir. She had a hard time deciding between a tree ornament or an actual nutcracker. Ultimately she chose the nutcracker and it hasn't left her side yet!

I was pleasantly surprised by just how much she like the performance. She sat and watched intently the entire time clapping along with the audience at the appropriate times. One of my favorite moments was watching her wave back to Mother Buffoon. She loved every minute of it!

On the ride home we sang Christmas carols and talked about our favorite parts of the night. I love my little lady and I am so glad that I was able to spend the evening with her. Thanks babe for putting it all together for us!

in the kitchen ...

2011-12-10T19:21:00.001-07:00

Ruby and I made cookies!

Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies!

Yummy!!!

She was a fantastic helper!

The ingredients says "NO MORE taking pictures!"

We didn't follow the recipe exactly! {grin}

Ruby carefully placed each chocolate chip one by one in the batter.

Ruby: It okay I put all dese in there?

Mom: Sure!

Ruby: Oh! It okay I put one a dese in my mouf?

Mom: Of course!!

From then on it was one for the cookies, one for her!

Thanks for baking with me Ruby
I had a lot of fun!

Belle Party

2011-12-08T11:53:00.001-07:00

Ruby wanted a Belle Birthday this year ... and that is what she got!
She fell in love with this cake online and I decided she just had to have it. So I put my cake making skills to the test. It turned out pretty awesome if I do say so myself! However, Ruby wasn't quite as impressed. In fact she wan't impressed at all and was disappointed that I didn't make the cake pictured on the cake mix box! Oh well.

It was a low key party with the Grandparents, and Ruby loved every minute of it! Pizza, presents, and cake!! What's not to love?

Admiring her cake ...

She had a lot of help opening her presents from an eager brother and sister. I had to keep reminding them who the birthday girl was.

She is one loved little girl ... and it shows. She was totally spoiled.

She has been talking about this binky baby for a while now ... and it was a hit! She is such a little mommy!

Cake time!!! Ruby didn't eat one bite! I later learned that she doesn't like frosting ... I think because it gets you messy. Good thing I had some unfrosted cupcakes for her to eat later in the evening!

Blowing out the candles ... I think she had some help in this area as well!

Happy Birthday my little princess! I can't believe you are three!!

Lyla, Month III

2011-12-03T20:42:00.001-07:00

To My Lyla:

You are three months old! How can that be? You are growing and changing each and every day. You have become quite the content little lady and you are rarely fussy like you once were. You are smiling more and more, cooing lots, and even laughing some ... although every. single. time. I get you to laugh you get the hiccups!

You sleep well ... although you haven't slept through the night in quite a while {maybe you could work on that some more!} You no longer cry each and every time we get in the car. Yeah! You are starting to become interested in toys. And you rolled over onto your tummy once all on your own. It must have been a total accident because you haven't done it again!

You are the cutest baby! I can't get enough of your cheeks ... I pretty much kiss them all day. And your thighs ... especially your left one ... I love them. The sight of those baby rolls makes me want to squeal. They are so cute! Your little fingers and toes ... perfect! I love when you eat how you will often hold onto my fingers. Your hair is getting lighter and you seem to be losing it now. I am afraid that you may soon be sporting a bald spot in the back.

You struggle in the eating area. For some reason you don't like to eat these days. Especially in the morning. Mommy feels like she is forcing you to eat at almost every feeding. Despite your eating strike you are still happy and continuing to gain weight. I guess I am forcing you to eat just the right amount! I really hope you take an interest in eating again soon.

You have been battling eczema lately and because of this I have been slathering you in creams and lotions each night and it has quickly become my favorite time of the day. You blow raspberries, laugh, kick and coo in delight the entire time. I think you are definitely ticklish!

Here's to three great months my little monkey!

Love,

Your Momma

For Ruby

2011-12-01T17:27:00.001-07:00

Dear Ruby,

Today you are 3 years old! Three spunky years you have been a part of our family! Three fantastic years. You are one beautiful, sweet, fun loving, sassy three year old! Life with you is never dull ... and we love it!

To say that you are full of personality would be an understatement. You are the happiest little girl that I know ... except for when you are mad! Your body language just exudes joy! You never walk, you dance! Everywhere. All. the. time. I love getting you dressed in the morning and then seeing you get up and dance around in your outfit for the day!

You are a girl who knows what she wants, when she wants it! You are very opinionated about what you wear, how your hair is done, who makes you warm brown {chocolate milk!} and so much more! Since your baby sister was born, you have become very attached to me! So much so that Dad can't do anything for you. Sometimes this is very hard for you as you have to wait for Mom to finish up what she is doing with Lyla.

Speaking of Lyla, you have taken to the role of BIG sister so nicely. I was so worried about how you would react to having a new baby in the family, but you are such a sweet big sister. You are always talking to Lyla, loving on her, and getting her toys and stuffed animals. You constantly bring me blankets for her and on occasion you even share your lovie with her! It makes my heart melt to see how much you love her!

Your favorite color is purple ... and pink! You love any and all things girly. Your favorite thing to wear is dresses. You love babies, barbies, and dressing up ... you can often be found in a Tinkerbelle costume. Your favorite movies are Strawberry Shortcake and Care Bears. You love princesses and decided all on your own that you were going to have a Belle Birthday this year! Your favorite book is Fancy Nancy Bonjour Butterfly. You choose it every night for story time. I am pretty sure you have it memorized!

Ruby Jane we love you so much! Life is so much better because you are in it. How blessed we are that you are a part of our family. I look forward to the year ahead ... watching you grow and seeing your personality develop even more. Happy Birthday sweet girl! I hope it is all you dreamed of and more!

Love you to pieces,
Mommy

sisters

2011-11-30T13:51:00.001-07:00

Sisters are the perfect
BEST
friend!

Reflections

2011-11-26T16:51:00.001-07:00

I am not quite sure what it is about my children and their want and desire to participate in extra curricular activities. I was never like that. I did what I had to do and did it well, but never really had the desire to do the extra things. But they do! Both Sophie and Collin entered the Reflections contest at their school this year. The theme was "Diversity means ..." Sophie entered in the visual arts category and Collin entered in photography. Both did a great job. Collin was the lucky winner this year!

He took first place in his division with this photo ...

Pretty good, right?!?!
He titled it Cars In a Row
His artist statement talked about how some cars are yellow and some are red. Some drive in the dirt and some drive in the street. Some cars go really fast and some not so fast. Some have 4 doors and some have only 2.

And of course, he was thrilled to add another trophy to his collection!

Congrats on the big win buddy!!

embrace the camera: nov. 17th

2011-11-17T07:17:00.001-07:00

This photo shoot was so. much. fun! It was the perfect way to bring out Sophie's personality. I love how each one of them turned out! Sophie has been such a helper to me lately. I can't believe just how grown up she is getting. She is becoming quite the responsible little lady. {setting the table without being asked, helping out the little ones whenever i can't, and always lightening up the mood in our house with a little humor} I can always count on her. We are so blessed to have her in our family and I can't get enough of this girl!

Love you sis!

linking up here

today

2011-11-13T16:42:00.001-07:00

Ruby was here ...

and here ...

All the kids were here ...

Collin was here ...

Sophie was here ...

and Lyla was here ...

Most nights, after the kids are snuggled in bed, I sit down on the couch and let out a sigh of exhaustion. I look around my ~~messy~~ disastrous house and think about the day. I am so busy. Busy cleaning, feeding the baby, doing the dishes, running kids here and there, doing the laundry, cooking dinner, changing diapers, doing homework, giving baths ... the list could go on and on. Yet through it all I look around me and think just how lucky I am. Lucky that I can sit here in my ~~messy~~ disastrous house. Lucky that I have 4 of the cutest, craziest, busiest kids ever. Being a mom is hard work. Four kids have been particularly challenging to me. I have needed a lot of help, but I wouldn't change any of it. I love these 4 little ones so so SO much!

And I love days like today. Days were the house looks like a tornado came through. Days where the TV is off and my kids are off playing away together. So although I wish my house were cleaner. I love the mess. I love the kids that make it and I love the happiness and the chatter that come with it!

the simple things

2011-11-13T16:27:00.001-07:00

{this weeks simple thing}

Lyla sitting in her bumbo! It is so fun seeing her sitting up so big with her little legs and feet poking out! Makes me smile every. single. time.

linking up here

Stats At Two Months

2011-11-09T21:23:00.000-07:00

Here is Lyla at her 2 month doctor visit. And uummm .... does she not look SO big in that picture. Where did my little newborn go? She is just as delicious though, so I'll take her!

Lyla's Two Month Stats:

Weight: 12 pounds 1 ounce

{75th Percentile}

Height: 24.8 inches

{95th Percentile}

Head: 15 1/2 inches

{50th Percentile}

Her doctor said she is doing great, although she does have torticolis which is a condition in which her head is tilted to one side and turned toward the opposite side. {You can see it in the above picture} It is caused by having tight muscles on one side of the neck and weak muscles on the other side of the neck. Ruby had this too. So we are starting physical therapy and doing stretches at home along with some additional dreaded tummy time. She has a mild flat spot on her head, but hopefully with the therapy her head will correct itself and she won't have to wear a helmet.

And just for fun, here are some cute pictures of Lyla from my phone. Love this girl!

Lyla, Month II

2011-11-04T21:34:00.000-06:00

To My Lyla:

Wow! You are two months already. It seems like I was just writing your one month letter to you! Time is passing by so quickly. Too quickly at times. Already I look back at pictures of you and you seem so big compared to the size you once were. You are no longer my tiny newborn!

You are growing and changing everyday. You started smiling this month {at 6 weeks} and I can't get enough of it. My heart leaps each and every time I can get one out of you ... which can be a challenge at times! You have also let out the beginnings of a laugh and I can't wait for you to give me a full belly laugh one day soon. It seems that you are discovering your voice more each day. I will often hear you let out a little sigh or quiet baby coos.

Also this month you have become quite the drooler. I often place you up over my shoulder and in a matter of minutes I have a giant wet spot. Your doctor said you are an early drooler and I suspect that you may be a wet baby in the near future from all that drool that rolls down your chin!

You are a hot item around this house. We all can't seem to get enough of you. Your sisters and brother ask constantly to hold you and your sister, Ruby, is always bringing you toys, giving you hugs and generally smothering you with affection.

My favorite time of the day with you is your late night feeding. You eat so well and calmly {which is not always the case ... eating is not your strong suite these days} and I love to cuddle you and listen to your gulping noises as you chug down your milk. Afterwards I love to hold you on my shoulder, listen to you breathe, and smell your sweet formula breath. I find myself kissing your chubby little cheeks over and over again until I force myself to lay you back down in your crib for the night. Oh, how I never want to forget those precious moments we get to share together right now.

We love you baby girl! Happy two months!
Love,
Your Momma

Happy Halloween!!!

2011-11-02T21:35:00.000-06:00

We had a great Halloween this year!

Some of our highlights include:

neighborhood halloween parade

being dressed in our costumes ALL day long

trick or treating at grandma's and grandpa's house

yummy pumpkin chocolate chip cookies

dinner with friends

trick or treating the night away

watching our kids sit and rest on random door steps

eating candy

and

experiencing the joy of the holiday with the cutest Barbie, Wolverine, Minnie Mouse, and frog one has ever seen!

Carving Pumpkins

2011-11-02T21:18:00.005-06:00

Pumpkin

pumpkin

round and fat

turn into a

Jack-O-Lantern

just like that!

The kids were really into carving their pumpkins this year. They loved choosing their template online, cleaning out the pumpkin guts, and helping us carve them ... but most of all they loved seeing them all lit up on our front porch!

Ruby decided that she wanted to paint her pumpkin instead of carve it ... so she painted hers for about 2 minutes and then she decided she was tired and marched herself up to her bed to take a long winters nap!

Pumpkin Patch

2011-11-02T13:58:00.015-06:00

Every year we plant pumpkins in our garden ... but we still have to take a trip to the pumpkin patch! The kids love it. I think it is their favorite Halloween tradition ... one we all enjoy! This year our visit to the patch was cold but we managed to stay warm and have a lot of fun!

Because it was cold ... and we went pretty early, there was hardly anyone there. It was so nice. No waiting in lines and it was just us and a few other people on the tractor ride out to the patch.

The kids each picked their own pumpkin ...

Ruby wanted this green one!

Isn't he handsome?

After getting our pumpkins, the kids ran around ... they went down slides, played in the corn box, rode the farm animal train, swung on tire swings, and visited the animals.

Ruby kept talking to this cow like he understood every word she said.

"Say cheese cow! My mommy taking your picture!"

"Cow, why you eating that pumpkin?"

"Cow when you finish that pumpkin, you eat that acorn {corn cob}. Okay cow!"

The other kids enjoyed feeding the goats and llamas their popcorn!

What a fun evening!

Cali!

2011-10-30T18:45:00.021-06:00

Logan and I + our little stow away hopped upon a plane and headed to California!

Logan's cousin was getting married and we couldn't pass up the opportunity! I had been looking forward to it for months and even purchased myself a new dress for the occasion!

Our first day there we met up with Logan's family and spent the afternoon at the beach!

logan's family

The next day Logan and I took it easy. We hung out at the hotel and relaxed ... it was sooOOo nice!

we stayed at a fancy hotel that had beautiful grounds.

we took a break from our relaxing to enjoy the sunshine and have some lunch.

i ordered chicken and waffles! logan thought it was too funny and just had to take a picture of my "State Fair Sandwich" {grin} it may have looked silly, but it was yummy!

After relaxing all day it was time to head off to the wedding welcoming party ... a game of kickball at the Rose Bowl Stadium. SO FUN!

logan took a time out to feed the baby!

lyla was such a trooper! she just tagged along the whole weekend and rarely ever fussed unless we were in the car {which she HATES!}

The next day we did some shopping and then we were off to the wedding. It was an incredible evening. Such a beautiful wedding . Unfortunately I didn't take too many pictures. This was Lyla's fussiest evening and I spent most of the time trying to keep her from fussing. It was my biggest fear that she would start screaming during the ceremony! But we made it through and enjoyed the evening. There was yummy food, beautiful flowers, groovy music, and dancing! It was a lot of fun!

the theme throughout the wedding was pomegranates ... i thought this was such a fun way to give out the seating assignments

The next day we headed home bright and early to our kiddos! It was so nice to have a get away with just logan but we really missed them. Thanks mom for taking such good care of them and showing them a great time!

Top Ten!!!

2011-10-28T15:51:00.006-06:00

My picture placed in the top ten!!!

I am so excited!

That pouty face is hard to resist!

Love her.

embrace the camera: october 27

2011-10-27T22:29:00.005-06:00

I am trying to soak up every cuddle, yawn, smile, and coo because they grow up way too fast!

linking up here

Party!!!

2011-10-26T14:40:00.006-06:00

A couple of weeks ago, Sophie came home from school and told Logan that there was a girl in her class that she wanted to make friends with. Logan suggested that we have a tea party and invite her over. Sophie thought that was a great idea. We put it on the calendar and she began the planning! She thought of everything ... invitations, pink lemonade for the tea, lots of yummy candy {specifically laffy taffy!}, bagels with strawberry cream cheese, and of course decorations! Unfortunately that little girl didn't come, but it was still a fun little party with great friends!!

the girls had a great time reading the jokes on the laffy taffy wrappers and then making up their own!

even Ruby and some stuffed friends got to participate!

And because Sophie got to have a party with her friends, Collin wanted to have one too! He decided on a racing party {his true love right now!} He said he wanted a starting line and then later changed his mind and said he wanted a starting gate instead! Silly boy! His party although thrown together last minute was so fun! Logan {who is completely awesome by the way ... but that really could be a whole post of its own} put together a race track in the church parking lot and the boys raced around and played other games. They made number plates for their bikes and chugged down some gatorade. Collin was in heaven!

the cute boys lined up at the starting line

On your mark,

Get set,

GO!

i heart faces -- Let Them Be Little

2011-10-24T21:00:00.013-06:00

This photo was entered into the I Heart Faces photo challenge – www.iheartfaces.com

the simple things

2011-10-16T22:08:00.003-06:00

She's Tinkerbelle from sun up to down down!

Makes both her and I smile!

Linking up here

embrace the camera: october 13

2011-10-13T12:30:00.006-06:00

This sweet boy has been a challenge for me lately.

I would love to say that it is because both he and I are adjusting to life with a new baby,

but it's not.

He has a temper.

And teaching him to express himself in developmentally appropriate ways is hard.

More often than not we don't see eye to eye.

And there is a lot of screaming and stomping among other things going on around our house lately.

But I LOVE him like crazy!

And there are those moments when we have the best time together.

Moments where we both laugh

and smile

and are silly!

Yesterday was one of those moments.

We colored with sidewalk chalk {pumpkins + ghosts + bats + witches + skeletons}

and we played

and took pictures

and made silly, scary, spooky faces!

It was great!

linking up here

A blessing

2011-10-12T13:05:00.012-06:00

On Sunday, October 8th Lyla Kate was given a name and a blessing. It was an amazing day to say the least.

Some highlights of the blessing:

lyla being blessed with curiosity and a love for learning

that she would gain her own testimony and a love for the word of God

that she would be blessed with healthy body

that she would one day attend the temple with her chosen mate

her sweet baby cries through the microphone

a peaceful sleeping baby throughout the rest of the meeting

being surrounded by loving + supportive family and friends

daddy and his baby girl

After the blessing we came back to our house for some breakfast.

We had bagels + muffins

make your own yogurt parfaits with the yummiest granola

cinnamon rolls

sausage and egg breakfast casserole +

chocolate milk and orange juice.

It was all delicious!

grandma "sheep" and lyla :: grandma "polar bear" and lyla

daddy, mommy,and baby girl

mommy and her little lady

beautiful girl ... this is the same dress that both sophie and ruby were blessed in

We are so grateful for Lyla and her sweet spirit that she has brought into our home.

2011-10-05T15:55:00.001-06:00

BMX

2011-10-04T14:15:00.006-06:00

My boys have started a new sport together ... BMX racing! They are having a great time together. I have never seen Collin have so much passion about something. He absolutely loves it. He would ride around the track all day if he could. Even when he crashes {which gives me a heart attack every. single. time.} he gets up crying that he wants to go again.

he looks so little out there on the track with his new racing bike

logan practicing before the race

Last Friday I had the opportunity go watch them race. Both of them did awesome and I had a blast cheering them on from the bleachers. Logan took 3rd place in his class. Collin unfortunately didn't place this time around but last time he won a trophy which has now become his prized possession. I love my boys and I am so glad that they get to share this together!

such handsome boys

Lyla, Month I

2011-09-29T14:31:00.005-06:00

To My Lyla:

This past month has been the fastest and slowest month ever! You are now six weeks old and I am just sitting down to write to you about your first month of life. Things have been pretty crazy around here lately and it seems that I can hardly find a moment of free time. But I wouldn't have it any other way. I am cherishing every moment that I get to be your mom ... even those middle of the night feedings!

Your first month was filled with ups and downs. Adjusting to life outside of the womb has not been the easiest for you and you have let us know with a great deal of fussiness. I always say that babies should come with an instruction manual and you are no exception. But we are getting things sorted out, and despite the fussiness you are the sweetest baby girl.

I feel so lucky to have you in our family. I can't get enough of your cuddles. I find myself holding you long after you are asleep just to get in some extra baby snuggle time. I am enjoying the newborn you because I know that you are growing before my eyes and soon you won't want to cuddle your mama any longer. Your brother and sisters love you so much and are constantly asking to hold you. They look after your needs and always let me know when you are crying. Your Daddy loves you too and seems to have the magical touch that can put you to sleep when no one else can.

You are the pretty standard newborn. When you aren't crying, you are eating, sleeping, or pooping! You hate the car and scream whenever we go anywhere! This makes it hard because as the 4th child of the family you will spend a great deal of time running your older sisters and brother around. Hopefully you will adjust!

You are becoming quite the sleeper. Several nights you have slept through the night. But it hasn't always been so great! There were a couple of really rough nights. Now that you have learned to love your swing things are going much more smoothly ... and mommy is getting some more rest!

We love you baby girl! Happy one month!

Love,

Your Momma

Lyla's Birth Announcement

2011-09-27T19:13:00.002-06:00

Newborn

2011-09-19T12:40:00.009-06:00

Here are cute little Lyla's newborn pictures

I'm head over heels in love with this little ones toes ...

her wild and crazy hair ...

her perfectly pink lips ...

her cute as a button nose ...

her chubby little arms ...

and her little bum!

Just looking at these pictures makes me want to go upstairs, sweep her out of her crib, and snuggle her all day!

how quickly I forget ...

2011-09-18T16:08:00.006-06:00

... baby snuggles

... impossibly small baby toes

... constant feedings

... that feeling of being completely overwhelmed

... frog legs

... what 1:30 am feels like

... the incredible amount of diaper changes

... adorable ruffled baby bum

... soft baby skin

... non stop crying

... the feeling of complete and utter exhaustion

... what 3:30 am feels like

... the incredible love you can have for someone you just met

... just how messy the house gets with a new baby

... baby acne

... that the older kids will need something right when I sit down to feed the baby

... what it feels like to be peed on ... and pooped on ... and spit up on

... the look of a swaddled burrito baby

... having an entire closet full of clothes yet nothing fits

... playing dress up

... the constant swaying, bouncing, rocking, and pacing

... the new baby smell

... pacifiers

... formula dust on the counter

... kissable baby cheeks

... how much I love the swing

... clenched little fists

... big bright eyes that should be sleepy eyes

... what it's like to eat without holding a baby

... those sweet baby sounds

... full body stretches

... sleepy smiles

... delicate baby fingers wrapped around mine

... how tiny newborns are and how quickly they grow and change

but it's all coming back to me now!

Rapunzel Party!!!

2011-09-13T14:13:00.012-06:00

Shortly after Lyla was born I threw Sophie a Rapunzel party. It was sort of put together last minute ... totally not my style ... but honestly one of the funnest parties we have had at our house.

a party isn't complete without decorations!

i LOVE. LOVE. LOVE. these shot of her

we played "hit flynn with the frying pan!"

check out the happiness!

we opened presents!

we sang "Happy Birthday" and ate some yummy cake

we played "musical spots" {the losers danced in the middle}

which led to an impromptu dance party ...

that turned out to be the biggest hit of all!

The party was a success and I LOVED seeing Sophie smiling and having a great time with her cute friends. I can't believe she is seven. She is getting too big! Happy Birthday Sopher Bug!

Sis gets her ears pierced!

2011-09-08T16:00:00.005-06:00

For months Sophie has been asking to get her ears pierced. A few of her cute friends had it done and she wanted it done too! Logan and I decided that she could get it done for her birthday. We planned a surprise outing for her complete with ear piercing. However after getting there her nerves got the best of her and she decided not to get it done ... we got Orange Julius' instead. Later that night she wished she had done it. So the next day we headed to the mall and got those ears pierced! She was so nervous, but so brave and she didn't even cry! She loves them and can't wait until she can change them out every day! She is so into accessories!

What a cute girl!

Just because ...

2011-09-08T14:35:00.002-06:00

she is precious ... and I can't get enough of her!

Little Mommy

2011-09-07T12:30:00.004-06:00

Ruby has taken so well to being a big sister.

She {LOVES} Lyla like crazy and always refers to her as "my baby".

She likes to hold her

play Barbies with her

pet her +

{love} her!

In the hospital ...

2011-09-07T11:31:00.013-06:00

I loved watching my kids meet little Lyla for the first time. I am amazed at the love they have for her already.

Birth Story of Lyla Kate :: Her and His Version

2011-09-04T13:20:00.018-06:00

Her Version:
The day started out just like any other. I woke up so bummed that it was D-day and I was STILL pregnant. I had a doctors appointment that afternoon so I got ready and mentally prepared myself for no change.

11:30 - I went to my appointment and much to my surprise I had dilated from a 1 to a 3 and my cervix was soft. I asked my doctor to strip my membranes. Luckily, she agreed. We talked about induction {something I was trying to avoid due to the fact that I wanted a natural med free birth} ... she left it up to me. I went home to talk with Logan about what we should do.

After thinking about it more and more I decided that I wanted to be induced the next day {August 19th}. This way if all went well I would be home for school to start and Sophie and Lyla wouldn't share a birthday. Both were major concerns for me. I called to schedule my induction. They had already scheduled the allotted elective inductions for that day but put me on a waiting list and told me most likely they could fit me in in the afternoon.

I went about my day ... making lunch for the kids, helping Logan clean the garage, and relaxing some as well. I was crampy, but knew that is very common after having your membranes stripped.

3:00 - Logan leaves to go do some service work with a foster boy he mentors. I loaded the kids in the car and took Sophie to get her ears pierced {an early birthday present for her}. After getting her ears pierced, we went and made a bunch of copies for my church calling.

We get home around 5:00 - I start making the kids dinner and realize that I am having pretty strong contractions. I text Logan and tell him I am having some pretty painful contractions and that I might not make it until tomorrow! He immediately calls back and asks how far apart they are. I tell him I haven't been timing them, but that I wasn't worried about it being any time soon.

By the time my kids finish eating I am in quite a bit of pain. I am trying to relax with my hypnobirthing breathing. It is hard however, because my kids still need a mom. Collin wants to make an ice pop and Ruby is freaking out about a fly. I decide at this time that I need to tell Logan to come home. I call him and then call my mom to come get the kids. Meanwhile I go upstairs to finish packing my kids bags and my hospital bag.

Soon my parents arrive. I am so glad to see the kids leave. My parents want to stay with me until Logan gets home but I tell them that I need the kids gone! So they leave. I finally feel like I can try to relax ... but still worried that this isn't the real deal I keep moving in hopes that they contractions don't die off.

Logan arrives home at 6:45. He takes a quick shower and we head to the hospital. I am trying my best to do my breathing.

7:30 - We arrive at the hospital. It seems like the longest walk to labor and delivery ... stopping every few minutes during contractions. They send me to triage and hook me up to the monitors. My contractions are every 2 to 3 minutes and I am dilated to a 5.

8:15 - I finally get to go to the delivery room. I desperately wanted to get in the laboring tub and asked them to fill it up right away. I got in and immediately started feeling intense pressure. I kept trying to relax and breathe. Logan would ask me if I wanted to listen to my hypnobirthing scripts but I felt like they would be more distracting than helpful. So I just continued to breathe. I asked the nurse to check me because of all the pressure I was having. I was so nervous about delivering in the tub. I was now dilated to a 7 and decided that I should get out.

After getting back in the bed the pressure continued and I kept trying to breathe ... filling my purple imaginary balloons! Soon my doctor walked in and that is when someone else took over my body. The baby was crowning. My water broke and I was in so much pain. I could not relax. I desperately felt like I needed something to relax me, but knew there wasn't time. All I could do was scream. I remember my doctor telling me in her sweet voice that the baby was coming. And I kept screaming. LOUDLY. I think I shouted "I can't do this!" I remember the doctor telling me that I needed to move down in the bed and shouting "NO!" back to her. In fact I wasn't moving down the bed, but up. As Lyla continued to slip her way out I would push up on my feet almost as if trying to scoot away from the pain.

Lyla was born at 9:35 ... on her due date. She weighed 8 lbs 4 oz and was as cute as can be with lots of dark hair! I had done it! I had my med free birth. I felt so accomplished ... and a little embarrassed. I remember turning to Logan and apologizing for all the screaming. Everyone was telling me how good I did ... I think to help me feel a little less embarrassed! I was extremely emotional. The adrenaline rush was overwhelming.

But the birth wasn't over yet. I won't get into details, but the delivery of the placenta and the stitches that followed were no picnic either. In fact it was worse than I could have even imagined and involved yet some more screaming! But soon it was over and I was holding my sweet baby girl in my arms.

The experience although not what I was prepared for was amazing and my recovery has been awesome. So much better than my other births with epidurals. An experience I will always remember.

----------

His version:
9:00: Mowed the lawn. Started cleaning out the garage. Who says guys don’t have a nesting instinct?

12:00: Quick lunch and back to the garage.

14:15: Finished the garage and left out the door.

15:00: Picked up Austin. He’s my 16-year-old foster kid friend that I mentor. We had planned to get together and help out his biological mother by working on her car.

16:00: Arrived at Austin’s mother’s house. I had planned on changing the oil in her car, but when we arrived she said that the oil was just changed but she needed new rear brakes. So right away we put her car on jacks and started tearing it apart. It’s a risky business tearing apart some else’s car, when you’re not a pro. What if you can’t get it back together?

17:15: Text from Jenn: “How’s it going?”
“Good, be a couple more hours. Love you babe.”

17:31: Text from Jenn: “I am having a lot of painful contractions. I don’t know if I will make it to tomorrow.”
This was a problem. Here I was, an hour away from Jenn, who was 35 minutes away from the hospital. If I left right then we’d be at least 95 minutes minimum from the delivery room. The new brakes were on the car, but I couldn’t for the life of me figure out how the get the car back together. I was totally stuck wondering if I was going to have to just leave and strand poor Austin with his mother’s car torn apart. I’m running calculations through my head; “What would it cost to get this car towed to a shop and have it finished by a pro? $1000, 1500. Jenn would understand if I wasn’t there for the delivery, right?” After more struggling with the car, and a google search on my phone (how did we function without smart phones anyway?) we figured out how to put the car back together. I quickly packed up the tools and raced for home.

18:30: Racing home. 85 mph, now 90 mph. Would a cop really believe me if I said my wife was in labor? They probably hear that all the time. 75 mph.

19:00: Arrived at home to a calm Jenn. You wouldn’t know by looking at her that she was well into active labor with contractions every 3 minutes.

19:30: Arrived at the hospital. They took us back into a room to do a quick exam. The nurse checked her and quickly determined that we were there to stay with an imminent delivery.

20:15: In the delivery room. Jenn having steady contractions that seemed to be occurring more then they were not. Despite the pain my dear bride is suffering all I can think about was how hungry I was. I kept asking her if it was ok if I left for a minute to grab something from the cafeteria, but it was never the right time. When I finally do get something, the delivery was way too close to even eat it. I know, who cares about the hungry husband when the mom is giving birth. But, I was worried I was going to pass out from all the gruesome stuff and low blood sugar. More contractions. Me: “Do you want to do some hypnobirthing scripts?” Jenn: “No!” So much for hypnobirthing!

21:32: The doctor finally shows up. The baby is ready to arrive. Jenn is now in more pain than she ever imagined. Jenn: “I can’t do this! I can’t do this!” Me: “Your doing great. You can do it.” I’m thinking, babe you don’t have a choice, too late for drugs, no backing out now, you’re committed. At this point Jenn is now starting to scream. I’ve never heard Jenn make sounds like this before. It was a combination of a roller coaster scream and being murdered scream. “WHHHAaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa!!!!!!! I CAN’T DO THIS!!!”

21:35: Jenn delivers the baby. Amidst the blood and screaming Lyla makes her way quietly out. Jenn didn’t even push at all, she just came out when she was ready. It was so fast that the doctor didn’t even have time to get ready and change out of her street clothes. She walked in, sat down, and caught Lyla.

It was great. It was beautiful. I loved watching Jenn endure through that experience. She was crying through all the pain, but I had to stop myself from smiling and laughing in front of her as I was so proud and amazed at what I was witnessing. She did a great job. Its rare that you get to see someone you love pushed to the absolute limit of their capabilities and come safely back, bringing a child back with them. Pretty special.

1st Day of School

2011-08-31T11:11:00.007-06:00

I can't believe that I have 2 kids in school now! It makes me feel old. I am so grateful that I was home when school started. It was a big stress for me, but everything worked out perfectly. The kids were so excited ... especially Collin!

Both kids seem to be liking school so far ... and have great teachers! Sophie is not such a fan of doing her homework every night, but I am sure after some time she will adjust nicely. It is good for them {and me} to have some type of routine again!

Baby Bump :: 40 Weeks

2011-08-28T12:08:00.003-06:00

Although it seemed to me that you were never going to come ... you arrived right on your estimated due date. Once you were ready, you came so fast. My labor was only 4 1/2 hours. Mommy didn't even have to push, you just came out on your own! It was a very emotional experience for me. One that I will never forget. You were beautiful! And chubby! We feel so blessed to have you in our lives. We love you Lyla Kate Phipps!

For Sophie

2011-08-25T21:05:00.004-06:00

Dear Sophie,

Today you turned 7 years old. I can hardly believe that it was seven years ago that I became a mom. The day of your birth was such a special day for your daddy and I. We marveled at what a wonderful gift you were to us and just how beautiful you were. Today we still marvel at the precious gift you are to our family and what a beautiful girl have become.

Sophie you have such enthusiasm for life. You are optimistic, and energetic about most all things. You love learning and have become such a great reader. You are always amazing us with your questions, and the little facts that you learn here and there.

You love all things soft and cuddly. I have never know anyone who loves stuffed animals as much as you do. You have soOOOooo many of them ... and yet it isn't enough. Everywhere we go you find another one that you just have. to. have! Along with your stuffed animals you still love your blankie and cuddle up with it every night.

You have become quite the big sister this year. You and Collin are still the best of friends. The two of you always have a good time together. You have also become good friends with Ruby too. I can often times find you playing Barbies, babies, or princesses with her ... and you are always so good to help her out in any way that you can. You just got a new baby sister last week and I am amazed at the love that you have for her already. You think she is so cute and often ask to hold her and you hate to see her sad and always let us know when she needs something!

You just started ballet class and can often be found spinning and dancing through out our house. You brighten any room that you are in with your smile, your contagious laugh, and your silly, fun personality. Sophie we love you so very much. We are so blessed to have you as a part of our family. I hope you had a wonderful birthday! You deserve it!

Love you,

Mommy

Meet ...

2011-08-19T08:51:00.001-06:00

Lyla Kate Phipps
Born August 18, 2011
8 lbs 4 oz
21 in long

Golden Spike

2011-08-09T15:11:00.012-06:00

Last weekend, in an attempt to do something fun with the family {Sophie was away with her Grandma for an early birthday celebration} Logan decided that we would take a trip to the Golden Spike. I was hesitant. I had been before but wan't all that impressed ... but he was right. We were down one child and the two that were left are quite the troopers so I thought "Why not?!?!"

After quite the drive {made longer by missing a turn!} we finally arrived just in time to see the steam demonstrations. The trains are amazing. And loud. The kids loved them. As did Logan. I thought they were neat too.

Following the demonstration there was a reenactment of the last spike ceremony which took place on May 10, 1869. There was a few minutes before the reenactment was to start, so Logan got up to get the sun screen from the stroller when he was asked to be a part of the reenactment. He did a fabulous job and was asked to come back every week. The kids thought it was super neat to see their Dad in the "play." Well, Collin did. Ruby was much more interested in her "rock garden" that she was creating.

After the reenactment the entire cast lined up for pictures. Audience members could come get their pictures taken with the cast if they wanted too. Logan called Collin up and one of the men let him hold the silver spike. Collin thought that was so neat.

And then Logan let him try on his costume ...

After we had done all there was at the museum we took a self guided auto tour on our way back home. It was super neat as well ... and Collin's favorite part apparently! It was a fun day. Collin keeps asking when we can go back! I'd say that means it was a successful adventure.

Oh, and upon hearing about our outing, Sophie said she was glad she wan't there! Silly girl!

ballet

2011-08-07T20:17:00.007-06:00

The girls around our house have a slight obsession with ballet lately. They are constantly twirling, spinning, and moving around in ways that appear to them to be the most graceful!

On top of that, Sophie has been begging us to put her in a ballet class. And we have tried, but who knew classes only registered in the fall. So she had to wait until we we were finally able to get her in a class. And she was thrilled!

These pictures are of her before her first class. Parents are't allowed to watch the actual classes ... but she looked so cute in her new leotard, tights, and shoes that I couldn't pass up the opportunity to capture her in that moment.

I was worried she might be disappointed when she found out that ballet isn't always what she has pictured in her mind, but she seemed to like her first class and had a great time. She showed us how she learned to skip with her knees really high and how to walk lightly instead of thudding like elephants!

Here is to beautiful, graceful, sweet ballerinas!

Pioneer Day

2011-07-31T16:40:00.006-06:00

I have said it before, and I am sure I'll say it a million more times but we live in the greatest neighborhood. Our kids look forward to the Pioneer Day Celebration every year ... and it is always worth the wait!

Some highlights of the fun:

hours spent washing and decorating our bikes
the kids parade ... complete with police escort! {I think my kids look forward to being in this parade more than they do watching the real parades!}
BBQ with good friends and neighbors
cotton candy!
candy cannon!
face painting {done by the YW in the ward}, and the fish pond
giant water slide
playing with friends and running, running, running around like crazy!

Such a fun way to celebrate the pioneers who sacrificed so much and worked so hard to settle this great land that we live in today.

bubbles

2011-07-22T16:34:00.006-06:00

We've been taking swim lessons.

Sophie and Collin are loving it!

Ruby ... not so much!

She is so afraid of the water.

She clings to me with a death grip ...

and whines and cries!

But she is getting better {grin}!

She still refuses to participate in the fun songs and games

until we get home!

Last night in the bath she was singing

The Wheels on the Bus

and

splashing all over

and most of all

she has been dying to blow bubbles ... just like in class!

Now if I could just get her to put her face in the water we'd be set!

Maybe next week!

Baby Bump :: 36 Weeks

2011-07-22T16:08:00.001-06:00

I was so excited for my doctors appointment this week. I was sure that she was going to tell me things are moving along nicely. But that didn't happen. Instead I felt like she said I was going to be pregnant forever. It has been really hard for me not having an induction planned this pregnancy. It makes it seem like there is NO end in sight. I guess I need to work on my patience! I am still so excited for your arrival, although I have to admit that I am getting nervous for how your sister Ruby is going to feel when you come. She is still so much the baby of the family. I am sure I am stressing about nothing and it will all work out just fine!

Zoo Party!

2011-07-14T14:53:00.003-06:00

For Collin's birthday this year, he decided that he wanted to have a zoo party. I thought it was a great idea ... no decorating the house! I told him that he could choose 2 friends to invite. Unfortunately one was sick last minute and couldn't come, but we still had a great time! Grandma and Grandpa tagged along too making his day extra special!

the invitation

I bought these cute as can be zoo visors for the kids to wear! They were a hit. My plan was to get a picture of all the kids wearing them at the zoo, but I didn't. I guess I got too caught up in all the fun!

I made these zoo lunches for the kids ... monkey quesadillas, apple slices, animal crackers, and gatorade to drink! I am not quite sure, but I think I may have been more impressed the by the cuteness of those monkey quesadillas than the kids were! Oh well ...

After we ate, we had cupcakes and opened up a few of Collin's presents ... the rest were waiting for him at home! Collin had no problem blowing out 5 candles!

We all had a great time at the zoo! The biggest hit with the kids {all except for Ruby} was the dinosaur exhibits they had throughout the park ... especially digging for dinosaur bones. I think they could have spent the whole time digging in the sand ... silly kids!

After we were sufficiently worn out we headed home to open presents! Collin was spoiled and it is obvious that he is well loved by everyone!

Happy Birthday Collin! I can't believe you are 5!

For Collin

2011-07-10T16:33:00.002-06:00

Dear Collin,

Today you turn 5 years old. What a big boy you are getting to be. It has been quite the year full of changes and growth for you! I am so proud of the little man you are becoming.

Collin you are such a special boy. You have a sincere love for everyone around you. Your sisters are still {and I'm sure always will be} your best friends. You don't quite know what to do when they aren't home. Along with your sisters, you have a great love for your Daddy and look up to him with such admiration. You treasure the one on one time that you get to spend with him whether it is going to the library or spending the afternoon watching motorcross racing.

You are still into crafting and collecting. The walls of our home are full masterpieces that you create as well as every spare inch of space in your bedroom. You come up with your crafts all on your own and then look to us for the materials ... making sure that we are carefully following the directions. You are still my little perfectionist!

You are such a smart boy. You have a love for learning ... especially facts. You know almost every dinosaur name out there and the amount of claws each one has. You are always amazing us with the various facts you know and your ability to remember them. You are going into Kindergarten this year and I know that you are going to do so well and love it.

Collin you have such a passion for life. You feel things so deeply ... whether it be your desire to always follow the rules, your need to do things just so, or your desire to get the latest and greatest toy that you have been eyeing. So many times you seem so much older than you are. But you are still only 5 and that causes conflict for you. However, you are working so hard to find a balance between your 5 year old self and your passion for life. Your Daddy and I couldn't be more proud of you.

Collin we love you so much. You bring so much joy and happiness into our life. We love your smile, your silliness, and your sweet and caring personality. You are great boy! I can't wait to see what the coming year holds for you. Happy fifth birthday buddy!

Lots of love,

Mommy

fun in the sun

2011-07-06T11:27:00.002-06:00

Happy Independence Day!

2011-07-05T18:28:00.002-06:00

We had a great holiday weekend

filled with lots

and lots

of fun!

{pictures from the parade}

parade with grandma and grandpa followed by a yummy lunch!

{where there was no shortage of candy and prizes!}

swimming

family bike ride

talks of why we celebrate the 4th

family home evening

{where we made a family flag}

family nap time

staying up late watching fireworks!!

...

So much fun we are still recovering!

Big Girl Bed

2011-07-05T12:49:00.007-06:00

Ruby finally {I say finally because it took forever for the furniture to arrive} made the transition to her big girl bed. It was super easy. For the most part she lays right down and goes to sleep. The biggest obstacle has been having the girls get used to sharing a room ... although I know it will get better with time.

I wasn't sure she would give up her crib and thought that maybe we would have to take it down before the new baby arrives, but she LOVES to sleep in her new bunk bed and now calls the crib baby Lyla's bed!

The first night I put her to bed I didn't put up the guard rail {on the bottom bunk}. I wanted to see how she did without it. As Logan and I were going to bed that night I decided that maybe I would put it up so I didn't worry about her falling out of bed all night. We walked into her room and she was snuggled up nice and cozy on the floor. She had fallen out and it didn't even wake her. It was the funniest and saddest thing.

I can 't believe how big she looks all tucked into her big girl bed. It is hard to see her grow up. I still see her as my baby. {sigh!}

For Jenn

2011-07-01T06:54:00.004-06:00

You're livin the dream babe!

-Your Prince

QUEEN Ruby

2011-06-28T13:42:00.004-06:00

I am not sure what made Logan call Ruby "Queen Ruby" on this particular night. It could be that she was sitting on this rock like she was the Queen ... but more than likely it was because she is the Queen of our family. What ever she says goes! At least for now. I am sure she will have to give up her throne to the new baby girl before too long!

Don't you just love Summer nights?

day camp

2011-06-24T21:39:00.003-06:00

There were 4 rules:

1. Have Fun!

2. NO whining or crying

3. Don't play in the fire

4. If you catch a squirrel, you have to name it Georgia!

We had a blast!

We roasted hotdogs, made s'mores {mmmmm} , played in the sand, and the kids even tried to catch a squirrel so they could name it Georgia! {grin}

Baby Bump :: 32 Weeks

2011-06-24T16:26:00.002-06:00

Swelling. Worrying/Stressing. Excitement. Nesting. Heartburn. Relaxing. Waddling. Preparing. Shopping. Charlie Horses. Washing Tiny Clothes. Braxton Hicks Contractions. It's been a busy week. I feel so relieved to be this far along. I am ready to be done. Ready to meet you. Only 8 weeks left ... although I {hope} you will come sooner than that.

Adventures ...

2011-06-22T16:22:00.007-06:00

... in feeding the ducks {greedy ducks as Sophie called them}

and exploring the world around us.

Tinker belle was there too! {although she didn't care much for the ducks ... she preferred pebbles instead}

At one point Sophie shouted that she saw a snake in this river and ran across it as fast as she could to get to safety. Then she decided she wanted to catch it and keep it as a pet ... but she couldn't find it again!

Thank goodness! I am not sure we would be good snake owners! {grin}

Summer

2011-06-20T15:52:00.008-06:00

Summer is in full swing ... the kids are out of school, there is lots of free time, and already the kids are complaining of not having anything to do! Our days have been pretty low key {being 7 months pregnant will do that to you ... 8 weeks and 3 days left but who's counting! grin!} but we have been making good use of our Lagoon season passes. We {LOVE} them! And with the crazy weather we have had this summer our days at Lagoon have been perfect!

The kids take turns choosing what rides we go on ...

and we run {or waddle!} from one end of the park to the next over and over again!

Sophie would prefer to spend the entire day riding the {big} kid rides. Although she does still love some of the {little} kid rides too!

Collin isn't quite tall enough to ride the {big} kid rides ... but really wishes he was. He spends a lot of time with Ruby and I doing the {little} kids rides ... always wondering if Daddy and Sophie are back yet!

Ruby is a happy camper as long as she gets to ride the whales and the kitty cat round and round! She rode these boats for the first time on our last visit and thought they were pretty fun too!

No matter what we ride, we all have a great time! And sometimes we splurge and get ice cream ... what could be better than that. A day full of amusement park rides AND ice cream!

Every time we leave Ruby is begging us to go back! We {LOVE} summer and the time we get to spend together!

up, down, up, down

2011-06-09T16:48:00.005-06:00

I have been busy making a blanket and burp rags for the new little lady that will be arriving soon. {only 10 more weeks to go!!!} I love how they have turned out.

The whole process has been a lot of fun. I got to spend a whole day with my mom {because lets face it ... she is way more skilled at this then I am!} and then I have been working on them at other random times the past couple of weeks. Sophie keeps wondering when I am going to make hers. {uummm ... I made it almost 7 years ago sweetie!} and Ruby likes to sit by me giving me the 411 on the sewing machine "up, down, up, down, stop. do it again! up, down, up, down, up, stop!" Silly kids. I love that they are excited for their new little sister!

{picture taken with my phone}

For Sophie

2011-06-03T20:20:00.008-06:00

You woke up today so excited that it was your last day of school,

yet so sad that you would be leaving your teacher.

It was a bittersweet day for sure.

You had a wonderful 1st grade year.

You learned so much

and grew up more than I could have imagined.

You said that your favorite part of 1st grade was your teacher.

Daddy asked you what you liked most about her, and you said ... "She likes fluffy things just like me!"

Your teacher loved bears ... and you loved that about her.

She was a perfect match for you!!

You became an excellent reader this year.

Your favorite author is Daisy Meadows ... you can't read enough about those silly fairies!

You often surprise your Daddy and I when you ask if you can stay up and read in your bed at night.

We came to your classroom today.

You were so excited to show us a movie of your 1st grade year

and the scrapbook that YOU had put together all on your own.

I LOVED looking through all of your treasured work.

I am so proud of you.

What a big accomplishment!

Yeah for finishing 1st grade and moving on to 2nd!

but for now HOORAY for Summer!

Love you!

Mommy

Baby Bump :: 28 Weeks

2011-06-03T11:52:00.004-06:00

I am so excited to meet you. I finished up my Hypnobirthing class and now I want to pack my bag and head to the hospital. I still have to wait though ... you are not finished growing and I am not ready for you yet. I seem to be so indecisive when it comes to buying things for you. I guess I just want everything to be perfect. I can feel you so much more now. I love every little kick and movement that you make. You are a stubborn one and only move when you want to. It seems like every time I have your Daddy feel my tummy you stop. Silly little baby!

For Collin

2011-05-28T15:35:00.008-06:00

This week you had a very big day!

You graduated from pre-school.

You have been practicing and preparing for this day for weeks.

And you were ready!

You brought me your part and asked if we could practice it ... and by the end of the evening you knew it. I remember you telling me you practiced that night in your bed.

I laughed when you told me a few days before "Teacher says there is only one rule, NO picking your nose!"

You were so sweet as you sat in your seat, sang your songs, and spoke your part in the microphone.

I was so proud of you.

I couldn't help but smile as you helped keep the rowdy boys next to you quiet,

or as you sang the loudest in the group.

You are so special buddy and I am so pleased with what you have accomplished.

My heart almost burst with happiness as I saw photos of you playing with friends

and loving your school experience.

I know this year wasn't always easy for you.

But you were brave and overcame your fears. And through it all you grew ... and we grew too.

Your teachers made you a book and a graduation hat.

You were so proud and wore your hat almost the entire day.

Of course Mom forgot her camera ... but you agreed to let me take some pictures at home!

I am so proud of you Collin.

I am excited for you to start Kindergarten next year. You will love it!

I love you.

Mommy

summer

2011-05-28T15:30:00.004-06:00

it's coming. despite all the rain.

summer is on its way,

and we have watermelon to prove it

... such a refreshing summer treat!

ruby {LOVES} it and asks for it at every meal!

baby likes it too! {grin}

Family Movie Night

2011-05-24T14:39:00.004-06:00

movie

a picnic dinner

popcorn

blankets +

time together

{LOVE} nights like this one!

Crafty Kid

2011-05-18T16:27:00.005-06:00

This boy LOVES crafts!

He would do them all day, everyday if I would let him.

He goes online all by himself and picks out what project he wants to do

and we do it ... well most of the time.

Sometimes I have to break it to him that we don't have the right materials

but

most of the time

we can make it work!

This is him sporting his silly hat ... pretty fun and cute!

Little Artists

2011-05-10T14:19:00.012-06:00

I have been busy getting a new and improved {PINK} room ready for Sophie and Ruby. As soon as the new bunk beds come little Miss Ruby will move in with Sophie. {the baby will be taking her room} The room is looking good. I have been having fun decorating it ... and spending too much money in the process. I thought it would be fun to have Sophie create a piece of art for her own room. I bought a canvas and paints ... painted it solid yellow and let her at it. She had a great time with it and I think it turned out super fun. I can't wait to hang it up!

LOVE this shot!

And because Ruby didn't want to miss out on the fun ... we pulled out the watercolors for her. She LOVED them. I think she painted for a solid hour.

Black and White

2011-05-01T15:40:00.018-06:00

We had a late Easter/early Mother's Day/Birthday celebration with Logan's family last weekend. The kids were all dressed matchy matchy in their black and white and looking so cute. Who could resist the picture opportunity?

So much fun was had dressing up and eating fancy food! Top that off with running around with cousins and the day was perfect!

Baby Bump :: 24 Weeks

2011-04-30T16:21:00.003-06:00

I just cannot help it! I am craving chocolate Creamies all. of. the. time. I can't get enough of them. On most day I eat two of them! I am trying to cut back. Really I am! My weight gain this past month has told me that I need to ... but I am sure that the baby likes them just as much as I do!

Easter Sunday

2011-04-26T14:24:00.014-06:00

Easter this year was a fabulous day filled with family; fun; and thoughts of our Savior, Jesus Christ.

The kids looked adorable dressed in their Easter clothes.

It was a beautiful Spring day {although a little chilly} and the kids enjoyed running around Grandma and Grandpa's house looking for eggs.

I love that Ruby has her snow boots on ... she insists upon wearing them all the time now.

After the kids found all the eggs, they came in and continued playing ... all but Ruby. She sat right down and got to work eating all of that candy she just worked so hard to get!

Happy Easter! I hope your holiday was just as enjoyable as ours!

crazy for coloring

2011-04-26T13:04:00.013-06:00

The kids were dying to color eggs this year and have asked to do it for weeks. We finally got around to doing it and it did not disappoint. In years past it has always been a quick event ... throw all the eggs into the dye and we are done! Not this year. The kids were very into it.

The kids were so cute using their manners ... "please can I use the red!"

Sophie enjoyed coloring her eggs half one color and half another.

Ruby had never dyed eggs before and was a little unsure at first but soon figured it out. She LOVED it. I think all of her eggs were dunked in just about every color 2 or 3 times.

And by the end all of them were cracked!

The kids have been admiring their beautiful eggs for days ... they don't even want us to eat them! What fun!

blossoming sticks

2011-04-22T11:34:00.008-06:00

They are finally here. I have been waiting and waiting for my trees to blossom. It finally happened ... and they are beautiful!

And with the blossoms come a promise ...

of warmer weather ...

and time spent outside ...

taking walks, riding bikes, and drawing with sidewalk chalk!

I can hardly wait!

slice of life

2011-04-18T20:44:00.009-06:00

I don't know what it is lately. All of my pictures seem to be mostly of Ruby. It could be that she is ALWAYS around me {just like a little shadow}. Or it could be that she is the only one willing to sit still in front of the camera. Or it could be that I am trying to soak up every last minute of her being my baby. Whatever the reason, here is a slice of Ruby's life.

Ruby loves to play in her bedroom. And she loves to do puzzles. It is a common thing to hear her say "Mommy you play puzzles with me?" or "Ca Ca {Collin} you play puzzles with me?" It is always a treat to sit down with Ruby and play in her room.

{as you can see ... these pictures were taken before her binky was taken away!}

No More ...

2011-04-09T09:46:00.005-06:00

... Binky Baby!!

In preparation for the new baby Ruby needed to lose the binky. I have been dreading this. I think it may be the worst part of parenting. Taking away something that your child is so attached to is awful. Looking back it hasn't been all that bad. Only nap time has been a little rough. She refuses to nap unless I lay by her until she falls asleep ... which is a shame because she was taking 3 to 4 hour naps everyday.

To give up her binky I took Ruby to build a bear. She was so excited to choose out her very own "care bear" as she calls them. She chose her bear ... had it stuffed ... and was ready to pay! No need for clothes. As I payed for the bear I had her give the cashier her binky in return for the bear. She willing gave it up. I was so proud. However she is so smart. She knew there were more at home. As we were walking back to the car she said, "My B is gone. I need get nother one at home!" Little did she know I had thrown the other ones out before we left.

Now that the binky is gone Ruby talks and talks and talks. Especially in the car. I didn't realize how much it was keeping her from expressing herself. The other day I heard Collin say to her "I don't want to talk to you anymore!" She is talking our ears off. I love it!

Baby Bump :: 20 Weeks

2011-04-06T10:20:00.008-06:00

weight gain so far: 19 lbs YIKES!

I am always hungry {could explain the 19 lbs!}

I crave sweets ... and pickles ... not together!

I am feeling great ... for the most part

{I still get tired easily and have some little pains here and there ... so far no intense pelvic pain like when I was pregnant with Ruby}

I have felt the baby move only a tiny bit

{I was starting to get concerned about this but learned at my ultrasound that my placenta in located in the front so I won't feel her little kicks nearly as much because of the placenta's thickness.}

I am feeling overwhelmed with all the preparations ... painting rooms, buying bunk beds, switching Ruby to a big girl bed, getting a new car seat ... the list could go on!

Studying up on hypnobirthing ... so excited for my first class!

My measurements at my ultra sound put my due date back 5 days later than what was originally calculated ... August 23rd instead of Aug 18th

{Starting to worry about not being home for the first day of school ... who will take pictures?!?! ... and send Collin off the Kindergarten?}

Ultra sound pics ...

{I was actually disappointed with the pics that we got. No super cute profiles ... oh well!}

And the gender reveal shot! Logan asked the tech not to tell us the sex but to let us guess based on the shot. Our little princess was being super wiggly the entire ultrasound until it was time to determine the sex. Then she decided to be a little shy. But when we got the shot, both Logan and I knew right away that it was a girl!

It's a ....

2011-04-05T10:13:00.008-06:00

BABY SISTER!!!! We are so excited and feel so blessed. The little princess is in perfect health and it was so fun to have another sneak peak of her! Both Logan and I were so surprised. We were convinced that she was a boy ... but can't wait to add some more pink to the mix!

We had so much fun revealing the gender ... even though I may have ruined the surprise not once but twice! After the ultra sound I came home and made some cupcakes to have at our gender reveal party! Well technically I made them the night before but ...

I did whip up some PINK frosting!

And I stuffed each cupcake full of a pink surprise! Collin may have snuck a peak of what color frosting I was using at this time. But I can't blame him ... we were all so anxious to find out if this baby was a boy or a girl. Or maybe the kids were just excited for cupcakes. We'll pretend it is the first! I spent the rest of the day trying to convince him it wasn't pink that he saw. He might have thought I was a little crazy!

Next I frosted the cupcakes white ... making sure that every last bit of pink was hidden and tucked safely inside!

Of course I had to try just one!

We took our parents out to dinner for the big surprise. When we got there I had everyone choose a boy or girl sticker to wear. This is where I kinda-sorta ruined the surprise again ... but it worked out okay. We made everybody wait until after dinner for the cupcakes. Then we passed them out ... counted to 3 ... and then everybody started to eat. My mom immediately ripped into hers and yelled "It's a GIRL!" I was a little nervous that Collin was going to be disappointed it wasn't a boy but he wasn't at all. I asked him how he felt about having another sister and he said " happy!" He is such a sweet boy who really does love his sisters.

It was such a fun day! Now onto the preparations ...

Growing

2011-03-31T15:09:00.005-06:00

Along with my belly (20 weeks pics coming soon!) this baby is growing like a weed too. It always amazes me how much growth takes place in such a short amount of time.

Here is the little one at 8 weeks ...

and here he/she is at 12 weeks ...

That's serious growth! And let me tell you that today I got to see another peak at this little cutie and again I am amazed at what a change. It almost looks squished in there already. But that ultrasound picture along with the gender announcement will have to wait until after we have told our families at our gender reveal party tonight. Eeeehhhhh! I am so excited! I can hardly wait! Blue or pink?!?!?

Driving

2011-03-27T16:34:00.007-06:00

"Is your seat good?"

"Have you got the mirrors adjusted so that you can see everything okay?"

"Stay off the freeways."

"Keep your phone in your purse ... no texting while driving."

Daddy, OKAY!

"Be Careful."

"Call me ... but not while your driving."

Friday Fun

2011-03-25T21:22:00.004-06:00

It snowed today. For the second time this week. Ugh! I am ready for Spring. For the sunshine ... the warmth ... and the time spent outside. I guess the good part about snow this time of year is that it doesn't last long. Along with the snow Logan has been out of town. For 4 days so far ... 1 more to go. Those things along with early out from school today left me feeling like we needed a break. A break from the house. So what could we do on a snowy afternoon ... go to the pet store of course. My kids LOVE the pet store. They pet the dogs, squawk at the birds, play with the pet toys, and marvel at the fish and coral.

The pet store was followed up with a visit to McDonald's. The kids were thrilled. It was a fun Friday afternoon. Too bad Dad wasn't here to enjoy it with us.

Captured

2011-03-22T13:26:00.010-06:00

It's no secret that I love photography.

Taking pictures.

Capturing the things around me

especially my kids ...

their accomplishments, their cuteness, and their day to day lives.

For me it is a way to save those moments that will soon be forgotten or go unnoticed.

But there are days...

days I am too busy to pick up my camera.

Too busy living life ...

running here or there or cleaning this and that;

and before I know it those days are over.

But on those days

even when I am busy ... wonderful moments happen.

It is then that Logan and I lay in bed laughing, and capture the days images in our minds.

Images of ...

a morning where the kids are happily playing together

Collin and Sophie hula hooping ... especially Collin. that boy has the best body shake!

Sophie and Collin dribbling basketballs ... Collin with such an intense face

the kids begging for ice cream and Logan teasing them about getting some vegetables instead

the kids begging for easter baskets at each and every store we stopped at

Sophie's sour face after taking a bite of her ice cream

Sophie exclaiming "Oh Lucky Day!" when she found out we were eating dinner out

Collin shouting "this is my favorite cheese store" when we pulled into Cutler's parking lot

Ruby's face of fear followed by excitement and laughter as Logan drove silly and swervy in the mall parking lot

Sophie proclaiming "it's not safe to drive like that on the freeway!"

Collin tipping over in his seat several times during FHE and every time Ruby singing "teamwork!"

Singing Itsy Bitsy Spider and Head Shoulders Knees and Toes ... as slow and as fast as we can

Listening to Ruby talk to her babies as she plays in her room

Listening to Sophie read her fairy books as she lay in bed with Logan

Collin telling Logan that he had to stop blocking him while playing Connect 4

I may not have an actual picture ... but I have helped save these moments by writing about them!

St. Patrick's Day

2011-03-19T15:26:00.008-06:00

My kids look forward to any and all holidays. St. Patrick's Day is no exception. The kids got new green duds to sport around in hopes of avoiding any and all pinching. And they woke up to the aftermath of little green men who had caused mischief around our house. Candy trails of gold, donuts, green milk in the fridge. What a perfect morning!

Sophie and Collin followed that candy trail right to the pot of gold {donuts}! They didn't even take the time to pick any of it up until after their bellies were full of those yummy donuts!

still a little sleepy!!

Happy St. Patrick's Day!

Did you wear green ... did Leprechauns visit you?