The Hammer's

Family Photos, October 2011

2011-12-01T14:56:00.000-08:00

The rest of summer and fall through pictures

2011-11-05T14:16:00.000-07:00

Brix had a sports class in August that he loved.. And so did Daws.

Tryin out his big boy bike.

Bear Lake, we sure do love this place.

Some back yard fun with buddies.

And fall has officially begun! The U's first home game.

Lagoon

These boys had a blast together!

Preschool field trip to Thanksgiving Point

Brix and his buddy Ty

Mary Poppins play, Brixton had never seen the movie but loved the play.

Cousins Wedding

Whole Fam Damily Shot

St. George Mari.. Love, Love, Loved this marathon!

Halloween, love this time of year!

Brixton singing at his preschool program

Dawson entertaining himself with trains while we watch B.

Trick or Treating at Daddy's work.

Trek

2011-08-02T14:44:00.000-07:00

Last week Mike and I had the chance to go to go on trek with our stake. We were Ma and Pa to 10 youth. We were both nervous and a little weary, but it ended up to be one of the most spiritual experiences of our lives. We went to Martin's Cove and The Willie Place. They trully are Hallowed Ground. I have never been outdoors and felt so overwhelmed with the spirit, that it came out in sobs. I am so thankful for my pioneer heritage and the faith, strength, and endurance they so naturally obtained.

The youth never ceases to amaze me.

One of 3 river crossings. (my hubs is a romantic at heart)

I love this picture, takes my breath away. (over 300 youth and leaders from our stake.)

Martin's Cove, a place of so much pain and loss; but also a place of much needed relief and rescue.

President Hinckley called it Wyoming's Temple.

Summer

2011-07-18T15:13:00.000-07:00

We love summer and are havin a blast. Here is an update..

Early June was Mike's 33rd birthday. We sure do love him.

I love surprising others, and we surprised Jeana for her 30th!

Lovin the slip n slide. Brix calls it the car wash as well.

Wyoming fun at G and G's.

The 4rth of July Parade at good ole Fort Bridger.

American Fork Days. These boys had a blast!

Blues Traveler Concert. (Actually they opened for a guy we had never heard of, Chris Issak?)

Draper Days Children's Parade. (Best thing ever. You can take a bike, stroller, whatever, and decorate it to your hearts content. Draper city provides everything. And you parade down the road to a park and have free treats!)

Yes, that is a black eye on my little guy. Falling down a couple of cement stairs doesn't agree with heads and eyes apparantly. Yes people, I am in fact mother of the year.

Swimming! We live at the pool. Both Brix and Daws started swim lessons last week and love, love, love it.

More Draper Days..

2011-07-05T13:47:00.000-07:00

Preschool Graduation!

Brixton loved Preschool this year and his sweet teacher Mrs. Wixom.

Disney Trip:

At the airport bright, early, and ready to go!

Our hotel had gigantic characters of some of our favorite movies...

Next Day was Disney World.

As you can see from there faces it was so hot! We didn't stay too long but long enough to get a few rides in.

And the next day was Bon Voyage Day.

Our first night on the boat we ate at a place called Animators Palate.

The following day we stopped at The Bahamas.

Pure Joy exuding from these boys!!

Then, we stopped at Castaway Cay. It was absolute Paradise!

More Joy Happening:

The last night was Pirate Night, and I was lucky enough to sit by these studly Pirates.

Brixton's favorite place to eat on the ship.

Brixton in search of the disney villian that stole the painting.

The Disney Dream show Brix and Mike got to see.

Good ole C&D.

And finally Mickey.. B was pretty excited.

This was a fun trip. I don't know if I will ever take an 18 month old on a trip like this again though.. He couldn't do a few things and the age makes it a little difficult. But Brix keeps asking me when we are going on another Disney Cruise, or when are we going back on the boat? So, he at 4 absolutely loved it.

What we have been up to...

2011-05-24T13:11:00.000-07:00

Mowing the baseball fields at the park.

Flying kites

Playing with our best bud Preston.

Wedding Time- Mikes little sister got married on May 12.

Brixton turned 4!

He was so sick on his actual birthday, it broke my heart!

But a week later we had "The Best Super Mario Party Ever."

(Brix sure knows how to make my day.)

I can't believe my little guy is 4. Sure do love him. Some of his loves at 4; cars, mario, wyoming, his cousin preston, his little brother dawson, games (especially memory), and jake and the neverland pirates.

P.S-We leave for our Cruise in one week and we are so excited; to say the least! Mickey, here we come!

My boys

2011-02-26T10:51:00.000-08:00

Every day is an adventure with my 2 boys and I couldn't ask for more. I love being a mom to these 2.

Preschool Field Trip to The Aquarium-

Farm Country with cousins-

Camping in the playroom-

My 3 favorite boys.

For Fun

2011-02-05T10:13:00.000-08:00

It is so hard not to go crazy this time of year. So in order to not go crazy, I have been getting my craft on and these are some of the results...

So long overdue.. We have had the same bedding for over 5 years, it was time!

The Playroom. I love this green.. I may paint the rest this color.

The Big UNO

2011-01-25T09:15:00.000-08:00

Daws turned one on January 19. This year flew by, really it did.

I want to freeze him in time. Oh how we love our feisty little guy!!

Some things I want to remember about D-

-He is so HAPPY and always has been!!

-He started walking the day after his birthday.

-He knows what he wants and if he doesn't get it, he will yell or scream.

-He loves books, balls, vacuums, and cars.

-He is a great sleeper.

-He loves to be chased or tickled.

-He loves water, and therefore loves the bath.

-He is an OK eater, some of his favorites are; bananas, carrots, waffles, pretzels, raisins, and yogurt.

-He is a cheese ball and will give you the best smile, all you have to do is smile at him.

Christmas

2011-01-11T08:55:00.001-08:00

This is the most wonderful time of year! How I love Christmas but I especially love it with my little ones!! Here are a few pics of our Holiday.

Christmas Morn (we had to wake B up cause D had been up for a while)

He was so excited about 2 things, Maters Tall Tales and Woody.

Utter Excitement

Daws was very excited about the oranges in our stockings.

Off to Monga and Papa's to party some more... this year was especially awesome because our niece who is battling leukemia got to come celebrate with us!! I love all the kiddo's excitement in this picture... They are opening luggage because we are going on a Disney Cruise in June!!

And back to the home front to celebrate with my family:)

Then, more partying happens right after Christmas. Happy Birthday to me!
Thanks mom for making me a yummy birthday dinner and cake. Love ya.

Playing Catch Up...

2010-11-29T14:53:00.001-08:00

A few things to take note of:

October-

1.Mike's Grandpa Love's Funeral on the 5Th.

2. Brix had 3 Field Trips for Preschool. Wheeler Farm, A Fire Station, and Gardner Village.

3.We had a fun costume party with friends.

4.We went trunk or treating in Lyman, and went to our ward Halloween carnival. (Mike was a great sport and wore his Buzz costume 3 times!!)

November-

1. Dawson is starting to take steps on his own! He will take about 6-8 steps by himself and then sit down:)

2. We went to Notre Dame and had a great time until the game started:(

3. I got all of the Christmas shopping done, this is very mentionable because it never happens this early and probably never will!!

4.We had a great Thanksgiving with Mike's fam.

5.Christmas is almost here.. I am so excited that I let the boys open there Christmas Jammie's last night. (We usually wait til the first Sunday of December)
(Pictures are in reverse order)

Christmas Jammie's.

Notre Dame

Touchdown Jesus!

Good ole Lou.

Me and Jess.

The guys were so excited to be in Southbend.

Halloween

Halloween Scavenger Hunt with cousins.. Thanks Aunt Jeana!

Field Trips

Grandpa Love's Funeral.. We will miss him!!

Just a few

2010-10-20T06:23:00.000-07:00

1. I am weaning Dawson and I have never been so excited about a bottle in my life.

2. My boys are on such a great schedule, they are both asleep by about 8:30p.m. (sometimes even earlier, Sunday night was 8:15!) and wake up about 7 or 7:30 (except for the few 6:00 a.m. wake ups from Dawson). Nothin better than well rested kiddos.

3.This time of year is my favorite, and we are actually having a fall season. I absolutely love the temperatures we are having. Oh how I wish it could last, but I know that white stuff is coming sooner than later.

4.Halloween is upon us and Brixton is going to be Woody. That is if his costume holds up until then. He puts on that costume on in the morning(on mornings that he doesn't have preschool) and will not take it off for anything until bed and then it is a struggle to get it off. And sometimes I think, go ahead and wear that thing to bed but I guess you have to draw the line somewhere.

5.A few months ago I was struggling with the thought of going back to school and finishing or doing a lot more than just finishing, maybe getting another degree. It really took over my thoughts. But now I know right now I am suppose to be home with my kids and I can finally say I am completely at peace.

6.In about a month Mike and I are going to the Utah @ Notre Dame game. I am so excited. I am usually a little anxious to leave my kids but not this time. And I get to see one of my best friends, can't wait to see you Jess!

When September Comes

2010-09-22T09:47:00.001-07:00

September has brought some fun changes. Brixton started preschool on the 7Th and absolutely loves it. He goes on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9:30-12. And Dawson started crawling everywhere this month! He is into everything and pulling himself up on things, which I am not quite ready for. And of course September means Football season. We love our Utes!!

Smiley guy

My big preschooler on his first day.

Splash parkin' it with cousins

And my 3 Utah Men

With Papa

And I had to add this one.

Adios.

Overload...

2010-09-06T19:51:00.000-07:00

Of pictures that is. Jamie Eyre took our pictures a few weeks ago of my entire family and she did such a great job. I love them all so much! Thanks Jamie!

Can't get enough of my handsome boys, they are my everything.

This little guy is the happiest baby boy you will ever meet.

Love them!

This picture shows how much they love each other.

They are such buddies, these 3.

He just oozes happiness.

The end.

Summa Time..

2010-08-26T06:49:00.001-07:00

I can't believe this summer is practically over! So sad. This summer consisted of a lot of swimming, swimming lessons, races, Bear Lake, and Lyman.

B loved swimming this summer!

He turned into quite a little fish thanks to swimming lessons.

We love Bear Lake and this summer we went quite a few times.

Mike and Brixton enjoying a little horse ride.

Sweet Dawson is now 7 months and such a happy guy. We dragged him everywhere this summer and was such a good baby through it all. He is trying to crawl and says da da constantly.

After running the Provo Trail 1/2 on August 7.

My grandpa passed away August 9Th. We found out he had cancer about 3 weeks before he passed. He was such a great man and taught me so much about hard work and integrity. I had the privilege to work with him when for a few summers in my teens and I am so grateful for that! I will never forget those great times I had with him. He was such an amazing dad and grandpa! He will be greatly missed!!

My most recent photo of my gramps, at Dawson's blessing.

Brix playing with his remote control boat at Bear Lake.

We are sad that summer is coming to a close but way excited about the fall. Brix starts preschool in 2 weeks (can't believe it!). And Utah Football Season starts in one week (Mike can hardly contain himself:).

Wasatch Back

2010-06-30T11:18:00.000-07:00

A couple weekends ago Mike and I did the Wasatch Back. 188 miles of crazy fun. It really was quite the experience. No sleep, not much "real" food and me pumping in between my 3 runs:) We had a blast though, thanks all you Hammers, Halls, and Pattens!!

Our sweet ride.

After our first runs.

Another shot of the 'burban.

Our fellow team members, and the best driver ever!

Mike finishing his first run.

All of us running in the last few yards.. SO SO glad to be done after 27 hours!!

Team pic at the finish line.

Best cousins.

Me and my hub. It was so much fun to do this together!!

Bunnies, Babies, Blessings, and Birthdays

2010-06-01T12:49:00.000-07:00

I haven't blogged in a while because of my silly camera, it has given me some issues but alas it was fixed. So here are some of the latest activities (in the last 2 months) at the Hammer house.
Easter came and went. We went on few Easter egg hunts and The Easter Bunny really did come.. As you can see on Brixton's happy face.

Some pics of my growing babe. He is such a good baby! Oh I love this little guy. This first pic is of him and his cute cousin Ellie, they are just a month apart.

We blessed Dawson on Apri 18th. It was such a great day. He is such a sweet boy and such a blessing in our lives.
Here are some pics afterwards...

We had a rip roarin Cars Party for Brixtons 3rd Birthday. It was a blast and Brix was in HEAVEN with Mater and Lightning McQueen. We played pin the car on Mater's Tow and we also had a pinata.
Oh how I love my 3 year old. I want to freeze him in time. I love this age and how happy, polite, and fun he is!
This summer he is going to do swim lessons and then in September he is going to start preschool... He is growing up too fast.

For some reason I have struggled keeping up on this blogging thing.. I will try to do better, but summer is ahead and that means busy right?! For everyone!
For all "U CAN"T TOUCH THIS" peeps, we are soooo excited for Ragnar in a couple of weeks!!

Lately.....

2010-03-26T13:36:00.001-07:00

The last couple of months have been a blissful blur. But my little munchkin is starting to sleep more, so in return of course I get more sleep. Hooray!! Nothing is more exciting at our house than getting some major shut eye. He is growing like a weed though. I took him for his 2 month appointment and he weighs 11.5 Pd's, and is 22 inches long. I think we are going to have some big boys on our hands when they get older:) So fun.
January, February, and March is an extremely busy time for Mike at work, and of course tax season. Mike would come home from work and want to play with Brixton but need to do about 20 different taxes that night (OK maybe I am exaggerating), so of course his little buddy would sit right by the computer and do them with him. It was so cute! I can say things have slowed down for him. Most of the taxes are done that he is going to do and I am oh so grateful!!
A couple of weeks ago we took Brixton to Disney on Ice. Disney Cars was there and so of course we had to go see Lightning McQueen and Mater! He was so excited and I loved seeing his face light up when he saw them. When they came out onto the ice, he said, "Dad, their huge!" They were real life size cars. Their mouths and eyes moved, so it was pretty fun!

Gettting ready to go see Cars!

At the show, waiting for it to start. Grandma and Grandpa came too!

Mater!

The whole gang.

The cutest boys!

He is getting so big.

Being dad's little tax assistant.

Finallly...

2010-02-10T16:14:00.000-08:00

Wow how time gets away from me with 2 kiddo's to look after. It is so much fun to have 2 little boys!!! We are loving it. Dawson is such a good baby.. yes he is only 3 weeks but he is such a calm, go with the flow baby.

I posted a ton of pictures of right after he was born, the weeks after, and the photo shoot we just had.

And for the story of his birth... I started getting contractions late Monday night, so I went to bed. I slept quite well until about 5:30 a.m. and then they started to come every 10-12 minutes, but they weren't too strong just yet. So at 7:30 a.m. I told Mike to go ahead and go to work ( my mom had come to stay that week so that's why he was able to go into work). For the rest of the morning they progressively got stronger but the whole time I am thinking well I will go to the hospital when my water breaks (it broke with Brixton so I thought it would do the same with Dawson). Well about 11 a.m. I called Mike and told him to come home about noon, they were about 8-10 minutes apart then. About noon he got home and they were getting pretty strong and about 5 -8 minutes apart. We left for the hospital and got there just before 1 p.m. By the time we got to the hospital they were just a couple of minutes apart. The nurse checked me and I was a 7!! And Dawson was born at 2:15 p.m. Just over an hour after we got there. I was so relieved we made it and we didn't have a home delivery!! It was great to labor mostly at home though. And it was great to have him come so fast and easily.

He is HERE!!

2010-01-28T16:09:00.000-08:00

Dawson Dean Hammer

Born January 19, 2010

2:15 p.m.

6lbs. 10 oz. 19 in.

It has taken a while for me to blog about our sweet baby boy... Our computer crashed and we just got the new one:)

Everyone is doing well and I will post pics soon. And the crazy story of his arrival (he was born just over an hour after we got to the hospital!).

December

2010-01-05T08:46:00.001-08:00

I have been a slacker... but wow how times flies when you are pregnant and its Christmas time.

Here are some of the latest activities and festivities that have occurred around our house...

We started out the month by opening Christmas Jammie's, a new tradition we started this year.

Modeling his Jammie's.. Eyes closed and all.

Yes football is over but now its time for Ute Basketball!! And boy do these boys love it!

So into the game, he can't quite finish his treat.

Christmas parties...

Riding the Christmas Train at the mall. Brix did love it despite the look on his face in this one..

More Christmas parties..
He wasn't so sure about Santa this year. "Just give me the present and I am outta here!"

Christmas morning....

Lovin his Mater the Greater Jump!

Lovin his new road bike!

Lovin the snow.

The month of December also included some painting and getting ready for the babe!

The finished products...

The nursery.

Brixton's room...

After so many requests, here is a picture of the belly.

Just over 3 weeks to go! We are excited and anxious!

Fall Fun

2009-11-03T14:46:00.000-08:00

There are so many fun fall things to do....

Watching football til you fall asleep. (Brixton will beg to watch football that is how much he is already, what shall we say, "brainwashed".)

Painting pumpkins at playgroup.

Playing football, or "down, set, hike."

Going on beautiful walks everyday to see the cows.

And of course Halloween. Brixton and Eliza trick or treating on Halloween. (Thanks for coming Roitz's, we had so much fun.. Brixton is still talking about "Liza")

Trying to get them to pose together.

Trick or treating at dad's work with his cute cousins.

At the ward Halloween carnival.

Showin' off his sweet face paint.. "a lightning bolt just like queen".

Such a stud!

Brixtonisms

2009-10-12T13:57:00.001-07:00

2 year olds are so much fun! Brixton always has the funniest things to say. And since I use this blog as a journal, scrapbook, memory book, and picture book. I thought I better write these down here so I can remember what he has said because I know I will forget them soon.

A couple of months ago:
Brixton was sitting on my lap on the porch and he pointed to my belly and said, "Baby's in there?" Then pointed further south (ahem, my boobs) and said, "another baby up there?!"

All of the time:
When I go to the bathroom or just step into another room Brixton will pretty much always say, "Mommy I missed you."
Every morning when he wakes up (if he hasn't seen daddy before work) he will say, "where'd daddy go?" (I think he gets tired of seeing me all day!)
He will lift up his shirt and say, "Mommy, look at my baby!"
Thanks to his dad, after dinner he will often say, "Thanks for dinner, it was so good." Even if he doesn't eat it:)

Last weekend:
My mom and dad were here visiting and my dad came upstairs dressed in his church clothes ready to go to priesthood conference and Brixton said, "Papa going on a mission?"

I love this age! Brixton is such a sweet, sensitive, energetic little boy. He is currently in a big boy bed that he loves. And we are attempting the potty training. He loves to talk about his little brother and how he wants to "help give him loves." Can't wait for them to meet. He will be a fantastic older brother.

Kind of Behind...

2009-09-07T10:47:00.000-07:00

Bear Lake...

The end of July we went to Bear Lake with the Hammer's, Norton's, and Ferniza's. We had so much fun. The minute Brixton woke up we would be in the dirt and sand until it was time to go to bed. Without a nap so you can imagine how tired this little guy was. He loved playing with his cousins!! We had fun riding the wave runners and making all kinds of things in the sand.

Papa, Uncle Steve, Preston, Dad, and Brixton

Hangin with the girls

Hangin with the guys

Last night, about asleep after 8 hours a day in the sand for 3 days and no naps!!

New House Pics....

We have been in our house for about a week and a half now. We love it and the area very much.

And now for my favorite pics...

We are having a baby the end of January (officially Feb. 1st but January just sounds so much closer!) and are so excited!!!!!!

And it's a BOY!!!!

We are so glad that everything is healthy and that we are having another boy. Brixton is going to be a great big bro!

A little update..

2009-08-18T07:25:00.000-07:00

There is only one word to describe the last month of our lives and that would be BUSY! We put our house up for sale on the 15th of July and recieved an offer on it 2 days later! We accepted the offer and started looking for a house immediately. After looking at about 35-40 houses we found the perfect house that we love and are very happy with! We move in, in a week and can't wait. So the last month has consisted of a lot of paperwork, packing, and patience! I will post some pics of the new house soon, once we are moved in and settled.

It's official

2009-07-16T15:34:00.000-07:00

Our house is officially up for sale... So if you know anyone that needs a cute house send them our way!

www.utahrealestate.com

MLS #899870

Update

2009-07-13T15:17:00.000-07:00

Its been a while.. Hope you haven't given up on me. The past couple of months have flown. We have been busy busy. Our house goes up for sale in 2 days and so I have been painting, caulking, dejunking, packing, cleaning... you get the idea.

Since I last posted we have had some fun other than working on our house. Mike and I went to Cali the end of May without Brixton. We were able to just do what we wanted without worrying about nap time and bed time.. yet we missed him more than we ever thought we would.

June consisted of Mike's birthday and working on getting the house ready.. fun I know.

For the July 4rth weekend we went up to Piedmont and had a fun Buckner Family Reunion.

some pics:

Newport Beach

The view out our deck of the condo we stayed at:

The Beautiful Newport Beach temple

Buckner Reunion:

watchin fireworks

Birthday Time

2009-05-11T14:08:00.001-07:00

Brixton turned 2 on May 7th. We had such a fun day. We picked up Mike early from work and went to the zoo. He loves the monkeys, giraffes, and elephants. Then, on Saturday we had a fun Dump Truck Party with family and friends.

I really can't believe my little guy is 2. Can't figure out where the time went. Some things about Brixton at 2 that I want to remember:

He loves to read stowies
He still loves to cuddle before bedtime (love this!)

He likes to help me sing and the ABC's and can name a lot of them

He knows most animals and there sounds

He knows most shapes and can draw a circle

He loves McQueen and Mater from the movie Cars

He would live outside if he could (we now spend most of the day outside)

He loves anything with a motor and wheels (He spots airplanes in the sky that I can barely see)

His favorite foods are: Milk, yogurt, fruit leathers, mac n cheese, waffles, and chicken.

He likes to help us say prayers

He loves to see pictures of Jesus and talks about Him a lot

He has the sweetest demeanor and loves to give hugs and kisses

Pictures of the party:

The yummy dessert. Can't have a dump truck party without dirt and worms!

Some of his gifts, Mater and McQueen.

What! A McQueen Trike!

Wicked FUN!

2009-04-18T11:19:00.000-07:00

On Wednesday we went to the play Wicked with Mike's whole fam.

It was AMAZING.

Never have I seen a play like this.

It was entertaining, captivating, and hilarious!!

It lives up to all the hype you have heard about it.

I want to go see it again and again.

Thank you Gordon and Beth Ann!!

My hot date.

Discovery Gateway and Easter Fun

2009-04-14T12:17:00.000-07:00

Last week we went to Discovery Gateway (the funnest children's museum)! Brixton loved going with his cousins; Sara, Alyssa, and Preston. There is so many fun things to do. We finger painted, played with boulder's at the construction site, drove a "Cop Car" as Brixton called it, his cousins sat on a life size horse, we went to the market, we saw the Easter Bunny, and played in a house with kids sized everything! I highly recommend this place for anyone who wants something fun and educational to do with the kiddo's!

The look of absolute pure joy!

Easter Egg Hunt in Wyoming= Coat+Hat!

Dying Easter Eggs with "Granma Sonwa". Oh how this boy loves his "Granma"!

A Great Experience

2009-04-07T15:39:00.000-07:00

Couldn't let these last few months go by without mentioning the Draper Temple. We were able to help in the Open House, and it was such an awesome experience. Then, a couple weeks ago we were able to attend the dedication for the Draper Temple, in the temple! It, for me, was an experience I won't soon forget. We were in a room right outside the Celestial Room and were able to see the Prophet and Elder Uchtdorf walk by and wave. Words do not describe the feeling you get when you are inside the Temple and see the Prophet. Truly amazing.

Random Blabber

2009-03-10T08:30:00.000-07:00

I am so ready for spring, and it snowed yesterday!

My little boy is one of the most spoiled boys around. He really needs someone to share with. And no this isn't an announcement.

Brixton used to love nursery, would practically run when on route to the room. Now he does not like it at all. At the first of the year the time changed and so did the teachers. And if Mike or I aren't in there with him it is a sad story. Which makes it hard to teach relief society or be eq pres. when we are sitting in nursery.

I really need to paint- my kitchen, bathroom, and basement. If we are going to sale our house then these rooms really need to be painted a neutral color. I don't think it will sale with a green, red, and turquoise walls. And I have put it off because who knows when we are going to put it up. Maybe this summer, fall or next year. Sometimes I really want to sale, after all it is a buyers market. But I really like where we are, our neighbors and our ward!

I really want to chop my hair off. And I mean short, but I really want to grow it out too. And so I am trying desperately to be strong and not cut it!

I have fallen in love with running again. It took almost a year from when I did the mari. I don't know if I will ever run one again but I do know that if I do I won't be nursing a child. It took too much out of my bod!

Mike and I are going to New York in a couple of months and leaving Brixton for 7 days with my parents. I am excited but overwhelmed to leave him that long. I have only left him over night and so you can see my hesitance.

Brixton will be 2 in just 2 months. Really where did the time go! I love watching him grow into such a great little boy.

I think I am going to go back to school this summer.

I'm so glad when Daddy comes home!

2009-02-24T09:51:00.000-08:00

Brixton has turned into quite the daddy's boy lately (tear). He knows exactly when dad gets home (I am usually making dinner, so that helps him know). He will usually stand by the window and wait until he sees dad pull into the driveway. And then the squeals begin while he runs to the stairs and waits for dad to come in. Brixton becomes his dads shadow from that moment on, I think he is just so glad to see someone else but me! They are so cute together!

Sorry if this last pic offends anyone.. Brixton loves to take showers lately!

Storms

2009-02-17T10:18:00.000-08:00

I find myself thinking today.. Have you ever wondered when it rains it seems to pour and pour, and for some it seems like the storm is never ending? And I can't help wonder why. Wrong choices? Bad luck?

Elder Wirthlin said, "The lord compensates the faithful for every loss. That which is taken away from those who love the Lord will be added unto them in His own way. While it may not come at the time we desire, the faithful will know that every tear today will eventually be returned a hundredfold with tears of rejoicing and gratitude.

Patience is pretty important when it comes to trials, right? And perspective. Having the right perspective. Having an eternal perspective can make all the difference.

Elder Ballard said, "I can understand why someone who lacks an eternal perspective might see the horrifying news footage of starving children and man's inhumanity to man and shake a fist at the heavens and cry, If there is a God, how could he allow such things to happen? We mortals have a limited view of life from the eternal perspective.

Someday we will know why we had certain storms. And that for me is enough. Now its just enduring them, and watching and helping those around you endure.

Dreams Do Come True

2009-02-12T15:00:00.001-08:00

My sis has always wanted to ride in a limo. And whoever knows Jess knows she doesn't stop talking about it:) So through my hubs' planning and scheming (he is so good to her) we were able to surprise her with one for her birthday (only for an hour ride, those things are way over priced!).

So when the limo pulled up to our house, Jessica was literally jumping for joy. She was so suprised and excited. Her exact words, "This is the best birthday ever, thank you thank you thank you!"

The birthday girl with her ride.The lucky guests.
Partying like rock stars in the sweet ride.

And we finished at Rumbi's for a great lunch.

Happy birthday Jess!

2009-02-05T16:08:00.000-08:00

Happy Birthday Dad!

We celebrated my dad's 50Th Birthday this last weekend with a surprise party. And I think he was surprised!

Good job on the cake, Court!

My dad is such an amazing example to me. Such a genuinely kind person. And it just radiates from him. His smile says it all.

And he is truly funny. Sure knows how to push our buttons and tease us more than we care to be. Oh and he has the best laugh. You start laughing just because of his.

He is a rock. In the gospel that is. His testimony is one of a kind and it shows in the way he lives his life.

Oh and I have never heard a bad word out of that mouth. Nothing. Notta. Not a swear word. Not a bad thing about another person.

He is such a great guy. Happy Birthday Dad!

The latest..

2009-01-21T13:37:00.000-08:00

Cheering the Utes onto Victory in the Sugar Bowl!!

B's new favorite activity's..

And who doesn't love a rock concert?!
We sure do,
especially when its O.A.R.!

Let me tell you something...

2009-01-14T11:36:00.000-08:00

I am one lucky girl because of these two,

They rock my world!

Christmas and More...

2009-01-02T13:09:00.000-08:00

Christmas Morning..

Need I say more? This boy was excited!!
Santa was good to him:)
And this is what I got.. I absolutely LOVE it.
Our Christmas afternoon drive to Grandma and Grandpa B's.
Christmas Night...
This boy LOVES his grandma.

And he loves taking his clothes off and putting his shoes back on!
My birthday...
Me and my cinnamon roll birthday cake.. It doesn't get much better than that!!
Shoveling right before Christmas..
He loves going outside, even in the freezing cold of night. And he never wants to come in.

Happy New Year!

The most wonderful time of the year!

2008-12-18T07:38:00.000-08:00

Brixton actually liked the jolly old man this year for about 5 seconds.

Merry Christmas!

Story Time.

2008-12-05T13:05:00.001-08:00

Brixton loves to read! It is quite an obsession, which I don't mind:) We go to 2 local libraries, the sandy and draper libraries, for story time twice a week. Last week there was a reporter at story time taking pictures for a story in the Tribune. I had completely forgot about it until we went to story time yesterday and a librarian told me that he was in the paper!

BCS BUSTERS! (PART 2)

2008-11-24T12:22:00.000-08:00

My hub was so NERVOUS all week for the BIG game, he could barely sleep. But it turned out to be great! They won and we stormed the field to celebrate!

Off we go to Miami, New Orleans, Phoenix, or California?! Whatever bowl they get to go to, it will be fun!!

P.S. Mike had to teach Gospel Doctrine and I had to teach Relief Society yesterday and it was a good thing we got our voices back:)

P.S.S I went to the Twilight movie and I actually liked it. And I want to see it again! I was very pleasantly surprised!!

My JOY

2008-11-21T13:21:00.000-08:00

A child's laughter, there is not a sweeter sound!!

I can't get the video to upload, so its just the photo:)

Some of this. Some of that.

2008-11-17T13:05:00.000-08:00

Brixton is now 18 months! Where did that time go?! Really. Seriously. I want to cry every time I look at him and think he is that old! OOH how I am totally completely in love with everything that he does and is.

These 2 are the best of buds!

Currently we are finishing our basement laundry room into a bathroom/laundry room. We are doing this in hopes of putting our house up for sale in the spring... And I am thinking why didn't we do this sooner, so we could actually enjoy it!

Before pics, I will post the afters as soon as they are done!

We also replaced this dreadful thing...

With this! Thanks Bryan and Steve!

THE BLACKOUT GAME- Utah vs. TCU

Such a fun time... And such a great ending!

The Hammer boys.

Fall Festivities

2008-10-29T15:37:00.000-07:00

Last Saturday Mike's mom put together the funnest Halloween party. First, we all went over to Great Grandma and Grandpa Love's and surprised them! We trick or treated and snapped a few photos and visited with them a bit.

Surprise!

Mike with his cute grandma who is 4' 10", so she stood on a chair to be as tall as Mike:)

Cutest lion ever:)

Then, we went back to Mike's parents house and decorated pumpkins with Mr. Potato head faces. Carving pumpkins with toddlers can be a bit messy so she came up with this fantastic idea instead!

A few weeks ago the Hammer Ladies got together for a night and we went to Gardner Village. It was so fun. They have the whole place decorated with witches. Very festive and cute.

Brixton loves helping me rake the pine needles in the yard. Especially since he has a rake, shovel, and hoe that is just his size. And we even bring them in the car with us.

Quirky Quirks

2008-10-08T11:46:00.000-07:00

TAG - Lets just see how QUIRKY I am...Tell us about 5 unspectacular quirks of yours...

Quirk #1- I smell everything! Things you don't think could smell, smell to me! It is very distracting and annoying.

Quirk #2- When I lose something I literally can't do anything until I find it (good thing it doesn't happen very often)! I get very stressed and grouchy.

Quirk #3- Every time Brixton and I come home from doing anything, I immediately shut the garage door. Even in broad daylight! I am just so super paranoid about anyone coming in my home to harm us, especially when its just the two of us. I do ease up a bit when Mike gets home from work.

Quirk#4- I despise doing laundry. But, I have to do my loads in a particular order. Colors, darks, lights, and then towels if I do them that same day. And almost every week there is always the last load in the dryer waiting to be folded for a day or so.

Quirk #5- I have to eat something before I go to bed.. I have tried to break this habit but every time I try I just wake up in the middle of the night with hunger pains the size of basketballs! I usually have a bowl or two of cereal.

There are a few of my quirks!

I tag the following 5: Alayna, Allison, Emily, Shauna, and Lezlie.

Fall Nostalgia

2008-10-03T07:23:00.000-07:00

Pumpkins, leaves of all colors, soup, football games, trick or treating, Christmas shopping, pumpkin pie, thanksgiving dinner, carving pumpkins, crisp nights, costume parties, apple crisp... I love fall and I am so glad it is finally starting to feel like it!

HeLp!

2008-09-25T12:48:00.000-07:00

When I think I have this whole mom thing figured out.. BAM, my little one decides to stay up for 3 hours in the middle of the night. Something you would expect from a new born, or maybe a sick child. But, he didn't act sick. And the whole reason he woke up was because he had pooped... Which doesn't ever happen at midnight. He is like a clock when it comes to this, ahem time, which is precisely right after breakfast and a little later in the morning. So then I thought maybe he is sick. So I snuggled and rocked and read and read and read to him. And Mike snuggled and rocked and rocked and rocked him. I gave him some milk and even some bread, thinking he might be hungry. Then, I mistakenly let him down to play for a minute which was about 1:30 a.m. now and he wanted to play. Running up and down the hallway into the living room and back into his bedroom. I think he thought it was so neat that it was dark and made it that much more interesting to play. So we did this for another hour and a half until 3 a.m. when he finally crashed in our bed! So weird and unusual for someone who sleeps so well at night and has since he was new born!
So what do you do when your toddler is up in the middle of the night and won't go back to sleep? Any ideas or suggestions? In case this ever happens again, which I am sure it will!

Miscellaneous

2008-09-22T14:12:00.001-07:00

Last week we took tracks down to Temple Square. Brixton liked the train ride and loved walking around the grounds at Temple Square.

A couple of Saturdays ago Mike played a Ninja for a birthday party of a little 6 year old boy in our ward. They do the funnest things for there kids' birthday party's! Mike was a Ninja that brought them all plastic swords and taught them all how to use their sword. The kids all had ninja costumes on and they had a village they drew up just for the party! It was so fun. Brixton even got in on the fun.
A few weeks ago on Labor Day we went to the Zoo. Despite the cold and wet, we had fun. Brixton loves animals!

Today is the day...

2008-09-17T11:02:00.001-07:00

Of our anniversary. 3 Big Ones! Wow, what a fun 3 years they've been. Some reasons why I am the luckiest... Mike is fun (if I had one word to describe him, FUN would be it), humorous (not a day goes by that he doesn't make me laugh!), friendly (wherever we go he either knows someone or gets to know them, gotta love it!), spiritual (he has such an amazing testimony), and loving ( he is my best friend and just a great dad!).

Love you Mike, Have a great day!

2008-08-30T18:25:00.000-07:00

Wishing you and yours a great College Football Season!

One cute Ute!

Planes, Trains, and Automobiles.

2008-08-27T12:40:00.000-07:00

I am not much of a journal writer or scrapbooker (OK not at all). So that is one of the reasons for this blogging thing.. I want to print it into a book some day, I have seen it done and it is awesome! Which brings me to my point... If I were a scrapbooker, I would want to document and remember how much Brixton adores anything that has a wheel, makes sound, and moves!

He has a bus that he plays with everyday and practically all day. He piles anything and everything in it (as you can see in the picture). He carries it everywhere with him. We usually have to take it with us in the car, and anywhere we go.

He loves big trucks. From semi's to garbage trucks. On garbage day he will sit by the window while the garbage truck dumps the trash and then will wait for a while hoping it will come back, I guess.

He also likes tractors and 4-wheelers. When we were at Bear Lake recently we had to go see the tractor every couple of hours. He would point and say vvvrroom vvvrooom! But once we got up close to the big wheels he didn't like them as much. But he loved the noise of the 4-wheelers!

When we go on walks down the street, we have to stop at about every car (we don't make it very far) and look up close at the wheels. And when he hears an airplane or helicopter he smiles and points at the sky. It is so cute.

Brixton has been in this car fad for quite a while and it just cracks me up, I just love it. He does like to play with his other toys and books. But he prefers a car over any other toy!

SoMe HApPeNiNgS oF tHe LaSt CoUpLe WeEkS.....

2008-08-12T15:24:00.000-07:00

Bear Lake Trip #2- You are all probably thinking, didn't they just go to Bear Lake? Yes we did and yes we went again! That's how much we love this place! This time we went with Mike's Family. We are lucky enough to stay at his grandparents cabin which is about 200 yards from the lake (it used to just be just feet away).

Playing with his cousins in the sand.. This is what he did for 4 days straight, and as you can see he loved it.

Getting ready for his wave runner ride. He wasn't too fond of the whole experience.

These two are so cute together!!

Our view from the cabin. Doesn't it just take your breath away?!

Splish Splashin with his buddy Preston.

Swinging with his twin cousins, Sara and Alyssa.

Michelle (my Belle!) turned 30!- We surprised her for her 30Th and it was so fun. She is my cuz but really I think of her as so more than that, we could be sistas! I am so glad we live so close and are such great friends! She is one of the most giving people I know. Happy Birthday Belle!

Breaking Dawn PARTAY!- My sister-in-laws and I had a GNO the night that Breaking Dawn came out. We started off the night by going to The Cheesecake Factory, (my mother-in-law joined us for that) I love there food and cheesecake. Then, we went to Barnes and Noble to wait for our books. Well, when they started selling them at midnight it took way too long so we went to Wal-Mart and got them right away cause there was no line! The book was worth it... It was so good!

Our Heavenly Cheesecake!

Waiting for our books at Barnes and Noble!

The line at Barnes and Noble!

Thats all for now:)

Our 24th Festivites

2008-07-31T14:46:00.000-07:00

On the 24th we had a BBQ with some of Mikes family. And then, we shot off some fireworks. The kids didn't know what to think at first but I think they eventually got used to them:)

Then, on saturday we did some more celebrating in Lyman. We participated in the triathalon, went to the parade (my Grandpa Buckner was in the parade dressed up in his old army outfit), and the BBQ!

Buckners' and Bear Lake

2008-07-16T10:45:00.000-07:00

The annual family Buckner Reunion was last weekend and as you can see we had a ton of fun playing at Bear Lake....

OH sWeEt MeMoRiEs...

2008-07-10T13:27:00.000-07:00

This sounded so fun! (Thanks Jeana!)

Here are the directions:
1. As a comment on my blog, leave one memory that you and I had together. It doesn't matter if you knew me a little or a lot, anything you remember! I guess good or bad, but be nice!!!!!!!

2. Next, re-post these instructions on your blog and see how many people leave a memory about you. If you don't want to play on your blog, or if you don't have a blog, I'll leave my memory of you in my comments.

Old Man!

2008-06-16T11:57:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday Mike! He turned 30 last Tuesday!

(And I have zero pictures of the festivities because Brixton dropped my camera in the toilet:) (I guess its about time I got a new one.)

Thanks for the love, joy, and happiness you bring! We still love you even if you are 30:)

Funny Story:

My mom asked Mike what he wanted for his birthday about a month ago and he told her another baby! WHOA! Didn't see that one coming. Guess I should of asked him what he wanted 9 months ago! I thought I would post this picture to remind him of the babe we had just a year ago:)

To my dear friend...

2008-06-11T15:07:00.001-07:00

Yesterday was a day that I dreaded for weeks. A day I was just hoping would magically never ever come. My dearest friend moved to New York yesterday with her sweet little girl. And I have been an emotional wreck ever since. I should be happy knowing that it is the best thing for them and that they will be safer and happier their. But for some reason I have been close to tears ever since. Maybe its because she is such an amazing human being who has persevered and been able to overcome. The things that she has been through has kept me up at night, but she has been able to move on and will be so much better for it. She is the ultimate example of what strength, courage, and perseverance truly is. She is the truest of friends and would drop anything for you. She is a wonderful mother and it shows by what she had to do yesterday. She is as humble as they come. And I am going to miss her and her sweet little girl!

Side note: Don't you wish you could protect your children from all the evils out in the world and just keep them in a bubble forever?

May.

2008-06-02T14:00:00.001-07:00

What we have been up to this month....

#6 and final game of the Jazz vs. Lakers series. Thanks to Mike's work, Les Olson Co. Thanks LOC! Arch Enemy- Kobe.

Been to a few parks. Swinging. Playing. Finally the weather decided to be spring!

Nate's Graduation. Can't believe it!

The two buddies didn't really want to pose for the pic.

Then, we headed up to St. George for some fun in the sun!

P.S- Brixton absolutely loves his grandpa.

2008-05-13T08:58:00.000-07:00

This is a big shout out to the Jazz to kick some major trash tomorrow night! Oh I really don't like the Lakers and especially Kobe Bryant! Go Jazz!!!!!!!

2008-05-08T12:59:00.001-07:00

Brixton turned 1 yesterday! And I feel like this last year has flown by. Where did it go? Where is the baby I just had? Oh, that's right he is 1 now and growing faster by the second.

We had so much fun last night celebrating this amazingly sweet little boy's birthday.

Here are some fun facts about Brixton at 1-

-Weighs almost 24 Pd's!! (I personally never thought I would have such a big boy!)

-Loves to play with my blow dryer, loves to play on our treadmill, and loves to play around the toilet and with toilet paper... Anything that isn't an actual toy.

-Can say ma ma, dada, and ba ba (baby)

-Can sign more and eat

-Absolutely loves the tub

-Loves to go outside

-Loves animal sounds.. especially dogs and birds.

-His favorite foods are chicken, bananas, raisins, yogurt, and green beans. (He will really eat anything though!)
-Loves to read books

-Hates having his diaper changed and getting dressed

-Has 8 teeth now and has the cutest smile that just melts your heart

-He is a ponderer, thinker, and observer... He is constantly watching others and observing what they are doing.

-He (still) likes to cuddle. (This may change when he is done nursing-almost there, he hopefully will be weened completely in 2 weeks! I will keep you posted.

-He is quite the little jabber box. He is always talking. Mike and I joke that we better talk now because when he really starts talking we won't be able to get a word in!

Here are some pics from last night.....

Thanks to our wonderful friends and family who came and celebrated with us!

2008-05-01T14:57:00.000-07:00

If you want to be uplifted, inspired, and ultimately touched to your core; you need to listen to the singing/musical group, Celtic Woman. Mike and I had the opportunity to go with his family, to their concert, on Monday night at Kingsbury Hall. They are, to say the least, amazing! They have voices as close to angels' as they come! And their music has a great message and spirit to it. So check them out!

The Zoo and My Sister Too

2008-04-28T10:10:00.000-07:00

We went to the zoo on Friday afternoon. Brixton's favorite's were penguins and he giraffes. Here are some pictures of the beautiful animals.

On Saturday we went to Lyman to watch Jess swim in the Special Olympics. She is so amazing! She is such a great swimmer. She won 3 golds and 1 silver. We just love her.

Here she is getting her medals.

26.2

2008-04-21T10:05:00.000-07:00

Phenomenal. Ecstatic. Overjoyed. Accomplished. Complete. Emotional. Sore. Tired. Exhausted. Happy. Able. Grateful. Healthy. Hungry.

I felt all of these and so much more that I can't possibly put into words, as I crossed that finish line. I had so many family and friends there waiting which I am so grateful for. Just knowing they were there helped me push through the last 4 miles. I wanted to just about die at mile 22. I hit the wall and I hit it hard. At the time I was thinking.. "Holly you are fine just keep going, keep moving those legs. I know they feel like they weigh 50 Pd's each but keep going! Everyone is waiting for you.." Those last 4 miles trully tested me. I found out who I really was. The woman I was inside. What kind of motivation and determination I have. So thanks to miles 23, 24, and 25. And thanks to...

This sweet little boy... I almost broke down when I saw him.

And this amazing guy....

Mike is my hero.. He ran the half marathon and then drove all over with his parents to find me and give me encouragement, motivation, and fuel (water and bananas..). Thanks Gordon and Beth-Ann!

My friend Jessica ran the half too... She did so awesome. She is an inspiration to me. She is such a strong and wonderful person!

Thanks Mom, Dad, and Nate for coming! You motivated me to keep going. Thanks so much for watching Brixton while we ran and ran and ran.

I saw my dad 1st at the finish line and oh I can't put into words how I felt seeing him there cheering me on. My parents are such wonderful examples of what I want to be when I grow up:) Thanks for ALWAYS supporting me!

I finished at 4:23. This time was not what I wanted it to be when I was training. I wanted to finish in just under 4 hours. But right now it is the perfect time because I finished and I accomplished my goal of running a marathon! There is always next time and there will be a next time, just probably not for a couple of years.

Now onto my next goal of weening Brixton.. Wish me luck. It may be harder than the mari!

On my mind...

2008-04-07T12:10:00.000-07:00

I must confess... I have an addiction and its quite pathetic. I am addicted to The Peanut Butter Moo'ds at Jamba Juice. This might not be so bad if I went every once and a while and if it was a fruit one I was getting.But its bad because I go a few times a week and I pick the unhealthiest one on the menu and they are pretty expensive, especially if you get the biggest size (yes I often find myself ordering the ginormous one). If I told you our monthly Jamba Juice spending, it would make you gasp I am sure. Oh wow that is so good to get off my chest:)

And this little boy pictured below is 11 months old today!!! Big sigh and tear. I told him this morning he was through with growing. Done. He will just have to stay 11 months old forever:)

Oh and one more thing.. the big Mari is in 12 days people! I am so excited, nervous, overwhelmed, anxious, and beyond enthused to do this. Wow. OK I am done now.

Good Times

2008-04-02T13:11:00.000-07:00

This past week we went on a little vaca with the fam. I love spending time with my family and we had so much fun. We headed up to Wolf Creek (by Eden, up Ogden Canyon) and stayed in a condo (thanks Mom and Dad!) and had 6 Fabulous days. We played a whole lot of Wii. And we even got Jessica, my sister, to play! For those that know Jess, this is history in the making!! We skiied, went sledding, ate out at some delicious places, rock climbed, and surfed (thanks to that new indoor rec place in Ogden). Oh how I wish I was still there:)

With Reverence....

2008-03-09T13:20:00.000-07:00

I love this place.

We were able to go recently and it was wonderful (thanks to my great in laws for watching Brixton so we could!). We haven't been able to go as much lately because we were blessed with this sweet little boy....

But like they say, "There is a time and reason for every season."

I love this little boy more than I can express in words. I am truly thankful for him and the sweet spirit he brings to our lives!

What was I thinking? Really?!!

2008-03-03T20:59:00.000-08:00

How did I get this marathon idea in my head anyway? Was it my hubby or just my love for this silly little thing we call running? As of this very minute I am slightly tired of training. I say slightly so I don't get it in my head that I am extremely exhausted. I do believe that in order to run these huge runs it takes a lot of will power and mental toughness!
This is a conversation that I often have with myself while running, "OK just make it to this next light (yes I do run on some crazy busy streets sometimes) and then Mike will be there with some water and goo... and then you will feel so rejuvenated that you can keep going another 5 or 6 miles..and if you don't feel rejuvenated then you can just hop in the car with him and Brixton and go home. No you can't! What are you thinking?! You have gone this far, so just keep on truckin sister!"

So for this weeks long run on Saturday wish me luck because I am slightly tired of this training thing.

Family Photos

2008-02-26T11:02:00.000-08:00

If any of you want some great pictures taken you need to go to Jen Fauset! Her website is fausetphotography.com. I absolutely love this last one! Thanks Jen!

Little Adventures.....

2008-02-20T11:51:00.000-08:00

Every week we go to The Little Gym and Brixton loves it! We also try and go to Baby and Me at the Library every week. Brixton seems to like it more and more. I have found out that I don't have a very shy baby because Brixton will clap, get very excited, and start to talk to other babies when he sees them.

Pictures at The Little Gym.....

Brixton loves the Laundry basket. He likes to sit in it and go for a ride. And as of lately he likes to stand in it and push it around.

Brixton LOVES the mirror! He likes to look at himself (yes I have a very vain child:), jabbers at himself, stands up against it, and he kisses himself. Its pretty cute to watch!
Brixton is getting so BIG. I took him to his 9 month check up and he now weighs 22.5 Pds. He know has 6 teeth and loves to talk. He says momma, dadda, ba ba (for ball, I think:), and baby (which I don't really know where he got this from.. He watches a sign language DVD that talks about babies, so maybe thats where he got it.) He likes to pulls himself up and walk against things like the couch, the crib, and as you saw earlier the mirror. Lately he is loving books and I think thats why he is starting to like Baby and Me at the library. Oh I love this little guy!!

Love is in the Air....

2008-02-11T10:38:00.000-08:00

Sorry I have been such a slacker (thanks for the reminder Skip!). But as of lately I haven't had too much to post about.. It would of been on; the crummy weather or about my sick baby. But now the weather is starting to get better and so is Brixton. So here is a post on the things I love... Since Valentines is right around the corner:)

1- I love love love to go to Wyoming and just hang out with my mom. (haven't done it in forever)
2- I love when Brixton sleeps in our bed and just cuddles with us. (He normally just does this in the mornings... But its been a lot more lately cause of his little cough)
3- I love an early morning run.
4- I love Sundays... Everything about them.
5- I love to bake.
6- I love the way Brixton looks like Mike.
7- I love SUMMER (please come soon:)
8- I love to go to the Temple with my hubby.
9- I love to go to my grandmas and have homemade bread.
10-I have learned to love teaching Relief Society (never thought I would say that, but I trully do now:)
11-I love when Mike gets home from work and Brixton (and I!) gets so excited (He loves his daddy).
12- I love to cuddle with Mike on the couch.
13- I love the way Mike loves Brixton.
14- I love it when my family comes and visits.
15- I love to go on walks on warm summer nights. (Can you tell I am ready for summer?!!)
16- I love to watch Brixton grow and learn new things.
17- I love The Cheesecake Factory.
18- I love cheesecake!
19- I love it when others love and are friends to my sister and don't judge her.
20- I love to buy things for a great deal (just bought a dress for $5 at Layers!)
21- I love to make dinner for a bunch of people.
22- I love to watch Mike play with Brixton... They have so much fun together!
23- I love to go to bed early and wake up early... Boring huh!
24- I love where I live... my ward, my neighborhood.
25- I love being a mom!

WeEkEnD....

2008-01-21T10:47:00.000-08:00

We had a fun one. It started with a great training run outside (the marathon is only a few months away, ooh I am excited!) Then, we went to the Utah BYU Basketball game on Saturday. It was a great game! Especially since BYU won (Mike wasn't happy:(). And I actually went and saw a movie at the theater without my baby. I am telling you this because it just doesn't happen, ever. I went with my friend (Mike stayed home with Brixton, I do have the best hubby ever!) and we saw 27 dresses. Then, to top it off; after church on Sunday I actually took a nap, which never happens either. Mike actually took a picture of it because it is of such rarity. So I posted it for all to see:)

On the Move!

2008-01-09T20:40:00.000-08:00

Little Brixton boy is starting to move all over the place. He doesn't do your typical crawl just yet and I don't know if he ever will. But he pushes himself backward, rolls all over the place, and scoots around on his tummy. He will get up on all fours (he does this funny push up move) and rocks and rocks and then face plants it. He is also getting very strong where he can pull himself up onto certain things, and he loves to stand and balance himself on his crib and the couch... Next thing I know he will be walking:! Oh what fun he is!
He also has 4 teeth now! He has had the bottom two for about 3 months but the top 2 just broke through this past week or so. Oh he is growing up way too fast! What a great joy it is to have him in our lives!!

2008-01-06T14:38:00.000-08:00

Quick Update...
We had a wonderful Christmas. Spent with lots of family and food!
Over the holidays Mike's brother and his wife had a little boy. Oh he is darling. What a great present! We are so very happy for them.
Brixton is becoming somewhat mobile, so we are trying to adjust to that.
I love that it is a new year and we can start making new goals or resolutions. One goal that has been more of a CONSTANT reminder than anything, is the spirit of service. My lesson this month is on that. And in the lesson there is a story about a dying woman and her son asks her what her greatest regret is, and she answered and said that she wished that she would of served more. Oh how this has really been on my mind lately and I hope to do a little bit better.
Happy New Year.

I have been tagged! (twice)

2007-12-13T09:55:00.000-08:00

Thanks Shannon and Skip:)

1. Wrapping paper or gift bags? I like both. But there is something about wrapping paper that is so fun to open. But if you are wrapping lots of gifts its nice to be able to put something in a cute gift bag really fast and be done with it!

2. Real tree or artificial? Either one... I love the smell of a real but I don't like the mess. And I love the convenience of an artificial.

3. When do you put up the tree? Right after Thanksgiving.

4. When do you take the tree down? Around New Years.

5. Do you like eggnog? I have only tried it once and it was a long time ago... And my memory of it isn't good. So I just may go get some this year and try it again. The one thing I do remember about it is the thickness and the texture of it... So if I can get over those 2 factors, I just might like it.

6. Favorite gift received as a child? I remember getting roller blades one year a trying to roller blade in the snow! I also remember giving a package to a family in need one year and that was so fun and is still so vivid in my mind. It was a great experience and reminded us of what its all about!

7. Do you have a nativity scene? Yes it is the willow tree one, my mother in law gave it to me last year for Christmas and I love it. Thanks!

8. Hardest person to buy for? My dad and my in laws. They have everything. And my dad just asks for a tie, are you kidding me?!

9. Easiest person to buy for? Mike and my mom. I know they oh so well!

10. Worst Christmas gift you ever received? Can't think of any.

11. Mail or email Christmas cards? Mail. I like to get mail.

12. Favorite Christmas movie? A White Christmas with Bing Crosby (its an oldy but a goody:) and The Nativity Story (HIGHLY recommend this movie, It came out last year so go rent it today!)

13. When do you start shopping for Christmas? It changes every year. I have high hopes of getting it done way early every year but this year I am still working on a few gifts.

14. Have you ever recycled a Christmas present? No I can't recall.

15. Favorite thing to eat at Christmas? How can I pick one thing? I love my mother in laws cinnamon rolls and my moms breakfast she makes every Christmas morning! I love my moms peanut brittle and Carmel's too. I could go on and on but I will stop there.

16. Clear lights or colored on the tree? I really like clear lights on my tree, they just look so pretty and pure.

17. Favorite Christmas song? I just recently have a new one, The First Noel by Josh Grobin and Faith Hill. WOW! It is really great. I also like Celine Dion's Christmas CD.

18. Travel for Christmas or stay home? We traveled last year so this year we are staying home.

19. Can you name all of Santa's reindeer? Dasher, Dancer, Prancer, Vixen, Comet, Cupid, Donner, Blitzen and of course, Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer.

20. Angel on the treetop or a star? I like either. We have an angel on ours.

21. Open the presents Christmas Eve or morning? We do the Jammie's on Christmas Eve and we also open a Christmas book and read it (Mikes side does this) and this tradition has been so much fun to be a part of. Then, the rest we do Christmas morning of course.

22. Most annoying thing about this time of year? It goes way too fast!

23. What I love most about Christmas? The spirit in the air, and the way most people act at this time... Very kind and giving. But most of all I love to be with family and friends!

Christmas Time!

2007-12-09T08:42:00.000-08:00

I absolutely love decorating for christmas and getting everything looking festive. Here are some festive pics for your enjoyment:)

The 4 windows and vaulted ceiling in this front room are great especially around Christmas so we can put our tree there and enjoy the snow fall.

My crafty mom made this cute christmas quilt for me... so cute, thanks mom!

It SNOWED most of the weekend and I love looking outside and seeing everything white. I especially like it when the trees are just covered in snow. Our street looks so wintery, LOVE it.

Mary

2007-11-29T11:48:00.000-08:00

I have been thinking a lot about Mary (mother of Jesus) lately. Probably because we watched The Nativity Story (highly recommend it!) recently and also because I played her in an enrichment play for Relief Society this week. Wow, she is to say the least, Amazing.
I cannot begin to comprehend what she must have been feeling and thinking.... To see the angel and then to know she was going to be the earthly mother of The Savior. That she would get to love, hold , and nurture Him as His mother. Probably wonder if she would be able to teach him much, be good enough for Him, and when the time came.watch Him be crucified! What a SPECIAL soul to be saved for that time and to have that ultimate privilege and blessing to be the Saviors mother. I have loved teaching and portraying this great woman and mother.
Happy holidays... I hope we can all remember the true reason for the season.

Photo Shoot

2007-11-20T15:55:00.001-08:00

My friends little baby Ceila is so adorable! They came over the other day and I had to take pictures of them playing and laughing with eachother. They are a cute little couple:0)

Brixtons' new towel.. I couldn't resist. It is just so cute and it even has little feet!

Surprise!

2007-11-20T15:45:00.000-08:00

I had a surprise party for Mike for finishing school.... It was a success, he had no idea about it and was very SURPRISED! It was a fun one:)

Am I CrAzY?!

2007-11-16T11:32:00.000-08:00

So I have decided to run the Salt Lake Marathon on April 19, 2008! I really need all the encouragement I can get, and that is why I am telling you all! I hope I don't give up (especially when it gets closer and the training gets harder). It is a goal I have had for a while. So here goes nothin, right?

A kiss goodbye to school!

2007-11-12T11:18:00.000-08:00

Tonight is Mikes last class!!! He is done as of 10 p.m. tonight! And I will get my husband back! YAY! Wow, it is quite amazing that he will never have to step foot in a classroom ever ever again.
Mike has worked so hard and done so well in school while still also succeeding in his job and career! Good job baba! CONGRATULATIONS!

mY bAbY iS 6 mOnThS tOdAy!

2007-11-07T14:15:00.000-08:00

Oh how time flies! I can't believe he is 6 months already.

The day we met Brixton.....

The recent days of Brixton....I love this boy. I am so proud to be his momma!

Halloween

2007-11-01T15:24:00.001-07:00

We went to a lot of fun Halloween parties this year so I thought I would post a few pictures of the fun festivites.

On saturday we went to a murder mystery party which was a lot of fun. Then, on monday night we went to grandma loves for a little party where we decorated cookies and had a costume parade. Yesterday we went to Mikes work to treat or treat. It is so fun, they have all the employees kids come and trick or treat. And last night we went to a really fun halloween party with lots of yummy food!!

Here we are as a dragon, darth vader, and princess leia.
In the costume parade at grandmas.

Look at those cute twin chicks!

At dads work ready to trick or treat!

Tagged!

2007-10-29T09:19:00.000-07:00

The Rules:Each player lists 6 facts/habits about themselves.At the end of the post the player then tags six people and posts their names then goes to their blogs and leaves them a comment letting them know that they have been tagged and asking them to read your blog. Have fun!

1) I am obsessed with clean... I have to have things clean. Especially my kitchen and bathrooms! I am constantly picking things up around the house throughout the day. I especially like to have everything clean right before we are about to go on a trip or away for a couple of days. There is nothing like coming home to a clean house after a weekend away!

2) I buy probably one candle a week when I go grocery shopping. I really enjoy a great smelling candle. Especially this time of year. I love the smell of a great pumpking spice or pie candle!

3) I love when Mike gets home from work and he yells, "Where is my little buddy?" And then Brixton perks up and looks around for his dad. Then, when Mike comes into Brixtons view he gets this amazingly large smile on his face! It is the cutest thing and it is the best part of the day.

4) I am a gymoholic. I love to get up early and go to the gym. There is nothing like a good run early in the morning and having a good sweat! Love it!

5) I bite Brixtons fingernails because I am too afraid to clip them with the clippers.. When he was about 3 weeks old I clipped them with the clippers and cut him pretty badly and now I can't bring myself to do it!

6) I love having people over... For dinner or to stay for a few days. It is just so much fun to have guests. Especially my mom and dad. It is so fun to see them and have them stay with us especially since we don't see them very much.

I tag Meagan, Whitney, Abi, Sherri, and Coyde.

Update

2007-10-24T13:48:00.000-07:00

Brixton is now 5 1/2 months old! He is getting so big! He sits up on his own now, and he loves to stand by himself against the couch (as you can see in the pictures below). He is also starting to scoot on his tummy like he wants to crawl. I want him to crawl, but at the same time I like putting him down in one place and knowing he will be in that same general area. He has 2 teeth now! I can't believe this, because most babies get them when they are about 9-12 months. He loves baby food. I started him on it just a couple of weeks ago and I am thinking I probably should of started sooner because he absolutely devours everything I give him! He also says ma ma but only when he is mad or hungry, of course. He is quite the little talker. He is growing so fast.

Mike will be done with his MBA in less than 3 weeks now! WA HOO! We are so excited. Mike can't wait to be done, but he has learned so much and he really has liked his program. It has helped him so much in his job and career.

Here are some fun pictures of the last few weeks.....

My Boys

"Look at me, I am This BIG!"
"I am pretty cute, seriously."
Mmm food! Why didn't you people give this to me sooner?!"

"Uh mom, are you watching me?"

Happy Fall!

2007-10-09T10:45:00.000-07:00

I have always loved the fall. I don't know if its because of the weather (it usually isn't snowing yet), the great fall food (soups, apple crisp, pumpkin rolls, etc..), or because of Halloween (my favorite holiday besides Christmas!).

The weather outside right now is, dare I say, close to perfect. The leaves are so vibrant, the temperature is so nice (we can go on a walk without melting!), and the sunsets are extraordinary! I also love the way the air smells right now, isn't that weird? When I go outside it has this certain smell, it is a smell of fireplaces burning mixed with the briskness of the air. I just love fall weather!

Fall foods.. Oh how I love food! I think about all the different soups that I get to start making. Potato, Tomato, Taco, and Chili mmm good. I also love breads this time of year, fresh hot bread right out of the oven! Desserts, oh I could go on and on about these. I love anything pumpkin, from pumpkin pie to rolls and even cookies. I also am in love with apple crisp (I just made an apple crisp pie that was to die for, I have the recipe if anyone would like it.. You will not be disappointed!). This is making me hungry:) Food is so delicious this time of year!

Halloween is my favorite. I think I love this holiday so much because my mom does and she made it so much fun for me when I was a kid. We always dressed in the funnest costumes, she always had the best decorations, and of course the candy and treats; who doesn't like that?! HAPPY HALLOWEEN.

Here are some entertaining Halloween pictures....

The Quilt

2007-09-27T10:33:00.000-07:00

I wanted to post this quilt for numerous reasons:
1- My mom made it for Brixton when he was born.
2- It is so blog worthy.
3- I wanted to show off my moms sweet quilting skills!
4- And to tell my mom THANK YOU!
5- And just because I love her so much, she truly is the best.

Sleeping

2007-09-24T17:55:00.001-07:00

Brixton is the best sleeper... He started sleeping through the night at 3 months. I feel very lucky. His typical night sleep is from about 9-6. Ya about 9 or 10 hours straight! I love it.

Here are some pictures of him snoozing away...

Anniversary

2007-09-17T09:58:00.000-07:00

Today is our 2nd Anniversary! So I thought I would post some pictures of that awesome day! (And I kind of went overboard!)

Lyman Reception ( 1 week later).....

SLC Reception....

Luncheon...

Temple...

Immunization

2007-09-14T21:01:00.000-07:00

To do it or to not do it, that is the question. It is so hard to know what is the best thing to do. You think, oh I better immunize my baby because what if they get sick... Then you will really feel HORRIBLE! But what if they get a reaction from all the freaking shots they have to get! That is what scares me the most. I think about all the kinds of diseases and sicknesses that I have heard and studied about babies getting from immunizations'. But some aren't really proven like for instance, autism. I think about this one the most since my sister has it and it is becoming such an epidemic!
But of course I was talked into immunizing Brixton by his doctor, and I wasn't totally for or against it.... But tonight after he has had a fever all day (he got his 4 month shots yesterday) I sort of wished I would of had them spread out more. But then I think about winter coming and everything he can get during those 'sick' months and then I think its a good thing. So as you can see I am kind of torn!
I think the root of me not liking immunizations is that I have never liked medication. I hate (that's how strongly I feel about it) the way you feel when you are "drugged". I rarely take "drugs" when I am sick.. I remember once when I was younger my mom taking me to the doctor and I had strep; so the doctor was going to give me a prescription but my mom said, "Can you just give her a shot because I can't get her to take medicine." I also did not get an epidural when I had Brixton because I hate that feeling. I like to be in total control of my body at all times!
What a hard moral ethical dilemma immunizing is......

4 Month Pics

2007-09-12T15:51:00.000-07:00

Brixton's First Ute Game!

2007-09-10T14:11:00.000-07:00

Brixton did so good at his first game (although the utes didn't!). He slept through the entire first half, through all the noise! We hope he continues to to do well cause we have season tickets and would like to take him to most of the games.

I am surprised Mike is smiling in this picture because this was taken at the end of the game when we knew the utes were going to lose.

Sleeping right through all the noise... Gotta love it!

England Flashback

2007-09-04T12:07:00.000-07:00

I was looking at our England pictures today and just had to post some. Mike and I went to England in May of '06. We went with his parents and brother and his wife. Mike and his brother both served missions in England. It was a blast! We were able to visit so many fun and exciting places.

The grounds at the Preston Temple.

The Lake District.

In front of The Holly Cottages in the Lake District which was gorgeous!

The Beatles Store which had everthing you could imagine!

The Preston Temple.

In front of William Shakespeares home.

Here were are in Oxford. It was my favorite.

This picture has quite the story... We were at Windsor Castle and Mike wanted a picture of the Queens' Guards. So he thought it would be great if I was in it too. So when the guards were marching about 50 yards away I stood in the road thinking Mike would take the picture right away. Well he didn't. He decided to take it when the guards were right on my butt, literally pushing me out of the way, and saying "make way for the Queens' Guards"! Ya we should have been on the side of the road like the rest of the tourists' taking pictures. Oh well it made for a good picture right?!

In front of the London Temple which was being redone while we were there.

Here we are in front of Big Ben.

Here we are in the "London Eye". You can see most of London from in there.

Go Utes!

2007-08-31T10:45:00.000-07:00

The Utes had there first game last night... And it wasn't the best game. The QB and RB both got hurt. The QB should be back in a couple of weeks but the RB broke his leg so he probably won't be back.:( So not a great start to the season.

We love going to the home games and hopefully this year Brixton will love them just as much (if the weather cooperates we will take him)!

Mike always talks about fall and how its his favorite time of year. He says there is a certain smell in the air, and that smell of course is the utes' football games! Mike is such a HUGE fan and was so excited last night for the season to finally start.

Mike in his crazy Muss days. He is on the far left in the red wig!

Mike and his friend Eric Weddle.

Last year at the rose bowl.

Life Changing

2007-08-30T06:49:00.000-07:00

Its amazing how a little baby can make grown adults look like complete idiots. Brixton does this to Mike and I on a daily basis. For example, Brixton rolled over for the first time yesterday and I being an emotional mom just about cried. I was so excited. So I filmed Brixton rolling over on my little camera phone and sent it to Mike at work and he then showed it to everyone there. Who really cares but us?

Wow how a baby can really change your life. But for the good of course! When I was pregnant one of my biggest pet peeves was when people (some complete strangers) would come up to me and say "oh boy is your life going to change". Like it was the worst thing in the world to have a baby. You don't think I knew that my life was going to change??! Duh! I probably thought about that before I decided to make this life altering decision. But it is one of the best decisions that we have ever made.

Its amazing how someone so small can bring so much life and spirit to a home. We are truly blessed to have this little guy in our home and in our lives.

Here are some pictures of the best decision we ever made.....

Bear Lake

2007-08-28T14:27:00.000-07:00

Bear Lake. Doesn't that just bring a smile to your face? Oh how we love that place. Mike gets so excited to go there, he gets all giddy and acts like a little kid again! (which isn't hard for him to do:)

We stay at Grandpa and Grandma Loves' cabin called The Love Inn when we go visit this great place. We love this place so much we got engaged there and spent our 1st anniversary there.

We just recently went up a couple of weekends ago with ALL of Mikes family... That is quite an accomplishment to get all 7 kids together and there spouses and kids. WOW, it was so fun!

Liz and Ashlyn playing in the lake.
Jen and Ashlyns sand castle. (Ashlyn didn't want to be in the picture with her sand castle but she wanted you to know that she "made it"!)

Smiley Brixton

Mike wakeboarding. What a stud!

Brixton laying out.. But that darn sun kept getting in his eyes:)

The twins playing in the sand.

Mike and Brixton. What cute boys they are!

One of a Kind

2007-08-24T12:58:00.000-07:00

So I have been pretty sick this week (and when I say week it is very literal) with 2 kinds of flus, the stomach and cold flu. Fun, I know. But who has time to be sick when you are a mother. You have diapers to change, clothes to be washed, and then theres the feeding part... I was sorta dehydrated I guess because when I was nursing Brixton I could tell he wasnt getting much. And thats kind of scary to say the least!

Good thing I have The Most Amazing Husband! He would come home everyday on his lunch break and bring me whatever sounded good at that moment... slurpee, pepto, ect. He even came home on the day that he has class (monday nights from 6-10, right after work!) and took me to his parents so I wouldn't be alone all day trying to take care of Brxton... And its not like we live very close to where he works and that he isn't super busy with his career and his MBA! He really is one of a kind and I love him so much!

(This flu bug is horrible, I hope none of you get it! I honestly don't remember ever being this sick.)

Brixtons Blessing Day

2007-08-13T09:04:00.000-07:00

Brixtons blessing was yesterday and it was such a great day. Mike did so well on his blessing... Brixton is so blessed to have such a great dad! (Brixton wore Mikes blessing outfit that he wore many years ago:) It fit him perfectly and he looked so cute!)

We had so many family and friends that came and supported us. We had a big get together at our house afterwards with lots of yummy food!

Look at those twins, arent they cute! And that boy in between them is one handsome dude!
(Brixton is trying to hold hands with Sara:)

Here are the moms with one unhappy little boy!

Look at those 4 studly guys! What great men they all are!

Just us.

Robby's Home!

2007-08-09T17:35:00.000-07:00

ROBBY GOT HOME FROM HIS MISSION ON TUESDAY. HE WENT TO ALASKA.. WE ARE SO EXCITED HE IS HOME!

HERE ARE SOME FUN PICS FROM THAT DAY......

HERE IS ROB AND THE TWINS, SARA AND ALYSSA. THEY ARE ABOUT 9 MONTHS OLDER THAN BRIXTON.

HERE IS BRIXTON AND ROB MEETING FOR THE FIRST TIME. (ALL THE COUSINS WORE SHIRTS THAT SAID "HI UNCLE ROB MY NAME IS ______") CUTE HUH?! THERE WERE 4 COUSINS BORN WHILE HE WAS GONE:)

My First BLOG!

2007-08-01T16:13:00.000-07:00

Here I am becoming a blogger.... I couldn't help myself, I love reading about all of my friends lives and seeing all the fun pics you all post!

This summer has been a crazy one... Between having a baby and watching him grow and Mike finishing his MBA (he is at the University of Phoenix). He will be COMPLETELY done in November and we can't wait! We also recieved new callings... He is in the young mens and I am a relief society teacher! Yuck I know! But I was asking for it because, I always said that that would be the #1 calling I would never want! Oh well, it is actually a lot of fun and I am learning a lot!

Mikes little brother Rob gets home from his mission in about a week now! We are so excited for him to meet Brixton. We are blessing Brixton the sunday after Rob gets home... We had to wait for uncle Rob!

Here are some random pics...

I love this pic... Brixton loves to smile, laugh, recently gabber at us! (Sorry its so blurry my lense was dirty when I took this pic!)

Here is Mike and Brixton just as he is getting out of the tub. Don't they look so much alike?

Here we are at the pool with our friends Jessica and Celia.... Brixton and Celia are going to get married some day, if we have anything to do with it:) Don't they make a cute couple?