Jonathan's blessing

Scott blessed Jonathan in our ward last Sunday. He did a great job. Jonathan was wonderful and didn't fuss at all. We were glad for all those who were able to make it and know there are others who would have come if they could have.

My side of the family

Scott's side of the family

Familiy Reunion

We went to a reservoir for the reunion with the extended family on Scott's dad's side. The kids had a great time rearranging the sand, playing in the water, and going on canoe and kayak rides. It's always fun to reconnect with family we haven't seen for years.

Always the problem solver. He couldn't climb in, so he found a stool. He became quite fond of that stool and would get upset when someone (like me) tried to take it from him.

Never did get in his swimsuit.

Happy Birthday Thomas!

We have another two-year-old! Thomas seemed mostly clueless, but he did enjoy getting treats. Since he's already got lots of hand-me-down toys and clothes, I didn't buy him much in that department. He got fruit snacks, animal cookies, Oreos, and M&Ms. He didn't seem to mind. He also got a ball that he LOVES and a Little People play set. 

Thomas will give a High 5, knuckles, and a "thumbs up." He gives a thumbs up by putting his fist on top of yours. I think it's cute.

A red velvet cheekecake cake. I thought it was delicious!

Thomas seemed pleased to have everyone singing his name. He couldn't figure out how to blow out the candles. Maybe next year.

Simply Scrumptious!

I really like to cook. And bake. And then eat said food. I don't claim to be great. I have a hard time not cooking with a recipe. I envy those who have a plethora of time to practice this hobby. Alas, one day I will have more time.
With my hobby, I need eaters. I don't even always have an excited audience. I wish I could eat what I want when I want and be that willing audience all the time! Alas, I also have qualms with being out of shape and unhealthy. So, I have to restrain myself.
I also got really excited today to think I might be able to buy spices in bulk for a lot cheaper than I have been. I might be able to buy sumac! I tried to buy it yesterday at my local grocery store and couldn't find it. Maybe I'll find it for a reasonable price! This caters to two of my whims. I love to cook and I hate spending money! Wa hoo on reaching both desires! Now I just have to find the time to get to said store with bulk spices without making a special trip 30 minutes out of my way. I've decided I'm weird for getting excited about things like this.
Just wanted to share with the void since my kids don't care about the thoughts I have during the day...

Talking

Thomas has been a very slow talker. I've worried about him and wondered if he'll need speech therapy. He's finally starting to try and say words! His birthday is next month, and the pediatrician said he would refer Thomas to a therapist if he wasn't saying 8 words by age two. Now, I've wondered if that means 8 words that I  understand or 8 words that anyone would understand. I think he says a lot more than is understood. We'll see if he can figure out speech on his own...

Just as a side note, he has a fascination with bibs. He often has three on at a time. He'll get mad if you won't let him wear all of them.

First Smile!

Well at least that we caught on camera!

First Bath

Jonathan did surprisingly well for his first bath. He didn't cry much at all! I think it's because of the time of year, and so the air wasn't as cold as for our other kids. It's a guess. He's been a very mild mannered baby so far, so what do I know?

California Trip

We had a family reunion in northern California. Yes, I made another super long trip before Jonathan was two weeks old. Yes, you can think I'm crazy just like everyone else. We went to San Francisco and went over to Alcatraz while we were there. Fascinating place. Even my kids were very interested. We also went to Yosemite. All of my family except myself and a sister stayed in tents. My sister was kind enough to invite me to stay in a cabin with her so Jonathan wouldn't have to sleep outside. We also went to a lake nearby my brother's and sister's homes. We had a great trip! I loved spending so much time with my family. The sites were great. My kids had so much fun with their cousins. 

Scott carried Thomas on all our hikes at Yosemite.

Richard carried my water and his water. He was a huge help!

.

Happy Birthday!

Scott had a birthday! I made a cake I was really excited to try. It didn't turn out nearly as good as I was hoping. I liked the concept, but I would use a different recipe next time. The layers didn't meld. 

I love Scott because he works hard to support our family. I love that he earns enough that I don't have to work. So, when I don't want to work, we don't feel the pinch. I love that he has a testimony of the gospel and is a faithful priesthood holder. I love that he loves kids. I love him for the wonderful person he is. Happy Birthday my love!

My mom

My Mom came! I had no idea she was going to come help me after Jonathan was born. She's on a mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Mexico. As a senior missionary, she can go home for special events. However, she didn't tell me she was coming. I was prepared to have to make the adjustment on my own. My sister helped her coordinate a surprise, and she showed up on my doorstep one night! I almost cried! (I'm not a cryer). She was a huge help and made the next two weeks when she was around so much easier. As she was leaving, I thanked her for coming and she said, "You know how much I love you because I wanted to come and help." Yes. That's definitely what it meant to me. She loves me so much she wants to come and help. Her visit meant so much to me.

Wedding

We drove to my brother-in-law's wedding in Arizona. Jonathan was 3 days old. Yes, that's how much I love Scott. I will drive 13 1/2 hours three days after giving birth to go to his brother's wedding. Sometimes you have to do what you have to do.

The wedding was wonderful. My kids had a great time. My girls still adore the concept of a wedding. Even at their young age, they have a fascination with beautiful dresses and weddings. 

Congratulations to the happy couple!

Richard was made a groomsmen. We didn't know that until after the ceremony. Richard was thrilled and loved being more a part of things.

Those are all our kids. The only nieces and nephews for both of them.

Four days old. What a trooper.

My girls LOVED the dancing. I think they danced the whole time. They would dance with whomever would dance with them. I often saw Marie grabbing the hands of an older girl. Who was she? No idea. Where was Richard? Out on the patio wandering around wondering when the dancing would end. Where was Peter? Sulking, because he kicked a cactus and realized that was a BAD idea.