Jewkes Family Journal

Long Lost Jewkes

2011-02-08T12:12:00.033-07:00

Yes. I know. I'm truly awful at this blogging thing. I can't seem to keep up on it anymore- so I'm going to post of whole bucket load of pics and notes and hope that it makes up for my lack in journaling for the last year... Be prepared for an epic post.
We are all happy and healthy (mostly) and enjoying life. Since we had Tenleigh in July we have just loved playing with her and basking in everything pink. The boys are so sweet with her and it makes me want to have another one! Tucker actually asked the other day if we could have another baby because Tenleigh "is getting big too fast."

Lets see- I left off with Thad's 2nd Birthday in February of 2010 right?

Uncle Eric got home in March- The boys loved watching the plane come in to land at the airport and watch Eric get off the Plane. Thad was only 4 weeks old when Eric left so it was a surprise for them to see each other.

Next would be Easter spent in St. George and cute Easter outfits. The boys LOVED the bunny trail and their baskets were full of candy and presents from the Egg Hunt we set up at Grandma and Grandpa Burtons.

Tucker turned 5 in June and we took him fishing (all he wanted was a fishing pole for his Birthday present) and then went down to Vegas to visit the Shark Reef. The boys loved looking at all the fish and touching the slimy things.

Tenleigh Jo was born July 23 and we have all adapted quite well to this sweet little sister.

August was full of sunny days and family pics- Here are a few of my faves.

We celebrated Tate's 4th birthday in September- What a fun and spunky kid he's turning into. We took a train ride up to the Iron Springs mine and the boys LOVED being able to push all the buttons and blow the whistle.

Tate was on cloud 9- getting to "drive" the train and talk to the conductor. All he wanted for his birthday was trains, trains and more trains.

We had a FABULOUS Halloween in October- Tucker as a Bat, Tate as a Spider, Thad as a Pumpkin and Tenleigh Jo as a Witch. Went to the Ward Halloween party and then trick or treating around the neighborhood.

and finally we blessed our precious Tenleigh in November and celebrated our Baby Sis with pink outfits and family pics. Love her! ( and PINK!)

I will update December, January and Feb in the next post- But hopefully this gives you a quick overview of our life in 2010.

Every day is an adventure here at the Jewkes home and I'm loving the opportunity I have to stay home with these little monsters!

Princess Tenleigh Jo

2010-10-08T11:25:00.003-06:00

Tenleigh Jo Jewkes- Born July 23rd 2010

Our beautiful baby girl is here and we are loving every minute of spoiling her rotten!!

I know I'm WAAAAY slow on posting but here are a few of my favorite newborn pics. She is 10 days old here.

I know I've been terrible for not blogging for the last like 8 months... This was probably my hardest pregnancy yet. I didn't feel like do anything except laying on the couch or clutching the sides of the toilet for the entire 9 months... But she has been totally worth it! She is a sweet natured little princess and her big brothers absolutely adore her. It's been so fun to have a real live dolly to dress up.

I promise to be better at the posts from now on- Especially now that I have a new little one to show off!

Baby Face

2010-03-09T22:47:00.022-07:00

Happy 2nd Birthday Thad!

February 19th

Could I have a cuter 2 year old? Here are a few of my favorite Birthday pics for Thaddy Babe.

I am madly in love with this baby. It has been so fun to watch him grow and develop into a little boy. He has such a sweet personality and listening to him talk lately cracks us all up. He has the cutest little lisp and loves to repeat EVERYTHING that was say. He loves to eat anything we put in front of him (which is such a shock after Tucker and Tate) and adores his big brothers. He follows them everywhere and tries so hard to keep up with them. He is my snuggly little bug and loves to climb into my lap for loves and kisses. I can't believe he is already 2!

Forgotten

2010-01-05T09:37:00.005-07:00

8 Great Years

Yes. I'll admit it. We forgot our Anniversary. It just completely passed us by! I guess this means we've fallen into our routine and are resigned to our fate as an old married couple. I didn't even remember to emotionally blackmail the man and weasel a good present out of him! It was on a Sunday (January 3rd) - so we couldn't have gone out and done something fabulous anyways, but it is a little pathetic that we completely skipped the day. ( In our defense, the kids had strep throat and I came home from church and collapsed into bed for the rest of the day) Maybe Dan's present was taking care of the house and kids while I tried to keep my breakfast down? I'll count it. Best. Present. Ever.

Top 8 Reasons I Love Dan

1-His ability to make me laugh- even when I'm so angry I could spit fire. I can't stay mad at the man!

2-His work ethic. I never have to worry about Danny working hard or taking pride in the tasks he's set out to accomplish.

3-His Optimism. Nothing gets this man down! Not even my constant nagging...

4-His devotion to family. His, Mine and Ours.

5-His Faith. Dan doesn't say much- but he lives the Gospel and sets a wonderful example for our boys (and me) by his quiet dedication to the Lord.

6-He Cooks. Every night. I never have to worry about Dinner because Danny takes over the second he gets home. This may seem trivial, but I LOVE it.

7-He gave me my boys. I can't imagine our life without the 3 little monsters and can't wait for the 4th

8-He Loves Me. He puts up with me. He indulges me. He's stayed with me.

There you have it. 8 great years to a great guy. I love you Danny! (even though I forgot our special day)

YOU BETTER WATCH OUT- YOU BETTER NOT CRY...

2009-12-09T16:02:00.006-07:00

Merry Christmas!!

Here is the annual Dickens Festival Santa pic. Tuck and Tate were THRILLED to go see "Father Christmas" and gift him with their list of demands. Thad... not so much. I absolutely LOVE the face he's pulling. He didn't cry at all and sat quite still for the pictures- but as soon as he knew we were done he was flinging himself into my arms and begging for sanctuary. I told the boys that Santa wouldn't come visit our house unless he saw some great cheeser smiles and they complied beautifully. I think this is my favorite Santa picture yet. HO HO HO!!

So Thankful

2009-12-02T22:50:00.008-07:00

Thanksgiving was a nice quiet affair in St. George this year. We went down Wednesday morning to kick off the festivities with the fam and took the kids to the Wildlife Museum that afternoon. And no- I don't have any pictures because I forgot my camera. Well Done Hollie. Well Done.
The kids LOVED the animal exhibits and we spent a few hours walking around and looking at the different displays. Their favorites were the Camel, Zebra and the Reindeer. The bears scared them- as well as the stuffed Crocodile and Alligator. I think I had just as much fun as the kids- listening to the guided tour and looking at all the exotic animals. Brad and Ashlee went with us for crowd control and then we all got together and had a fabulous dinner at Paula's that evening.

Thursday morning started out with Todd getting sick from Paula's the night before and all of us trying to avoid him in case it was the flu... We kept the kids outside and Dan played a rousing game of- well- I wouldn't call it Football so much as just throw the ball? Chase the Ball? But the boys loved playing with Daddy and worked up a perfect appetite for the feast.

We all gathered around the table and enjoyed all the traditional fixins' and Tucker actually tried a bit of every dish! Tate refused to try anything and insisted on Mac and Cheese and Thad went from chair to chair begging for scraps. Good Times. (Todd laid on the couch and got little sympathy and no leftovers.)

It was great to spend the holiday with the Burton's and see old family friends as well. We ended the evening with every kind of Pie imaginable and watching old Christmas videos of us as kids. Ah Memories.

To kick off the Holidays- We took the kids to SantaLand here in Cedar City on Saturday. They decorate the Heritage Center with tons of trees and displays tailored to kids Christmas fantasies (think Disney characters, Candy and Toys.) The boys loved the SpiderMan tree and the Police car tree the best. Dan's parents came to spend the rest of the weekend with us (and to make us another Thanksgiving Feast to enjoy). The boys loved going to the "North Pole" and walking through the maze to find Santa with Grandma and Grandpa Jewkes.

We don't have pics of Santa because they charged you extra for snapshots of him (and he was a crummy Santa anyways.) The boys did get to sit on Santa's lap though and (with a little coaching from Mother), he told them they couldn't fight with each other or pick on Thad if they wanted their Christmas presents... Thanks Santa!!
The kids loved looking at all the different trees and decorations and insisted that we come right home to decorate our own tree. It was a nice weekend spent with family and a great way to start the Holidays. Look for our annual Santa pic ( with a pretty Santa) coming later this week!!

CowBoys and Indians... and a Horse

2009-11-20T03:38:00.011-07:00

SOooo- I'm a little behind. But here are some pics of my boys from Halloween or "Wowlloween" as we Jewkes like to say. We had a great time dressing up this year and enjoyed our trick n' treating. Go October!

Thaddy Babe was probably the cutest horse ever. Period. He even learned to say "Neigh" on cue.

Tuck loved telling everyone to "stick em up". He made an excellent Sheriff and still insists on wearing his boots and hat everywhere.

Tate was wild about his Indian costume and fully embraced his inner savage self. He LOVED his Tomahawk and face paint.

Love these 3 little punkins.

The Wheels on the Bus...

2009-09-18T01:05:00.008-06:00

Back To School

Here are the boys showing off their new school clothes and back packs or "pack-packs" as Tuck calls them.

Well- The boys are officially back to school. Tate got to transfer over to 3 Peaks Preschool with Tuck this year- so they get to ride the school bus together 2 of the 4 days a week and look out for each other. I am LOVING the one on one time with Thaddy, but I do miss my boys. I can't believe I have 2 preschoolers already. Where does the time go? Tucker moved up to 4 days a week and is doing really well with more school time and Tate is just getting started with the 2 day program. I love the preschool here.
They both love their teachers and tell me fabulous and unbelievable stories about school and new friends and bring home more art projects and papers than I can fit on the fridge or tape to their bedroom doors. They each have their very own school-bus that I bought them to talk about how to be safe on the bus- and they drive them around the house telling me all the safety rules and about the bus driver and where they sit and so forth. It's so flipping cute.

We are the first stop on the bus route- so I have to have the kids up and ready to go by 7:45 am. EEK! Anyone who knows me- knows how awful this is. I am NOT a morning person. Not even really a mid-day person. Mostly I'm at my best around 7 at night. Trying to communicate with me before the P.M. is just not in your best interests. So... It's been an adventure trying to drag myself and the sleepy boys out of bed each morning. Thus the pics of Mama in her sweats and bedhead. The poor bus driver sees me at my worst each morning. Bless her soul.

The boys are pretty good natured about getting up so early, and stand at the front door just quivering with excitement until the bus pulls up in front of the house.

Tate was a little nervous the first few days- but having his older (not bigger) brother there with him has made the transition a little less painful. I just love that they are together twice a week. Tucker always holds his hand and tells him "It's not scary Tate- The bus is fun!"
I think the best part though, is that after they get home around 12:30 pm, they are completely exhausted and fall into their beds for a good 3 hour nap. Love it.

Sunday Best

2009-09-14T03:14:00.006-06:00

We spent a nice Sunday after church at Gwandma Fawa and Gwandpa Woss's house- celebrating Tate's 3rd Birthday with them. It's kind of nice sometimes to have family a little further away. We get to spread out the Birthdays the whole month long- visiting both sides of the family and planning our own little parties. Tate was thrilled with his new school clothes and Wiggles DVD's from the Burton's and loved his cake even more. (mostly I think because Grandma let him sit on the "big people table" to blow out his candles. He wouldn't eat the cake but he loved the gross waxy frosting it was coated with and kept asking for more. I can't believe he's 3.

Then we got to spend the rest of the afternoon walking around the St. George temple with the kids and enjoying the sunshine. Tucker kept looking for "ramoni" on top of the temple (see picture below) and Tate kept trying to pick all the flowers right out of the flower beds. Thad as usual was an angel and was content to sit in his stroller clutching a pinecone Tucker found for him.
These last few weeks, Tuck was been singing "I Love to see the Temple" non-stop, and has been asking if he can go to the temple in his prayers every night if he's a good boy, so I thought we'd take it to the next level. He was very disappointed that the temple was "closed" and has decided we need to come back so we can say hello to Jesus. Oh- the minds of children. Love them.

It was a lovely day and made me thankful for my 3 darling blessings. What a lucky Mommy I am to have such sweet boys. and Danny.

Those Lazy Hazy Crazy Days of Summer

2009-09-12T18:52:00.009-06:00

Here's an overview of the last few Summer activities.

Enjoying a parade with the fam.

Took the kids to a petting zoo- They loved tormenting the animals and riding on the ponies.

Riding the Alpine slide in Purgatory Colorado- We were smart enough this year to buy a repeat pass- No screaming kids this time!!

The annual Ouray Colorado trip- with the entire Fail family. We dragged the Burtons along as well and had a rip roaring good time. Lots of jeeping and shopping and camping and family "bonding" time.

Up to SLC for Great Grandma Burton's Birthday party.

It's been a busy few months!!

Tucker Vaughn Jewkes

2009-08-09T18:10:00.011-06:00

Love these smiles. Tuck is such a ham for the camera.

Here are a few of my faves from Tucks 4 year old pics. He is madly in love with trains- so we thought we'd pay homage. We went out to the railroad tracks and he got to play in the miniature boxcars and such. He was a little nervous to play on the tracks- Me teaching him to be safe has obviously sunk in and he didn't dare get in the way of the fast "twains".

It's been fun each year to try and tailor their Birthday pics with their latest obsessions. At least this way I can remember what they "loved" on their "birfdays".

2009-07-15T22:56:00.008-06:00

THAD OWEN JEWKES
February 19, 2008

1 year pictures taken March 2009

Ah Ha!!
I finally found the disk of Thad's 1st Birthday pics today. Woot. It was in the kitchen drawer with all the dishtowels and washrags. Don't ask.
I do in fact realize that his birthday was a good 6 months ago- but let's just enjoy the pictures- hmmm?

I think this one is my fave. His little curls are so sweet. He's gonna have a curly head full of hair just like Tuck. I figure if I don't have girls to play hair and make-up with- at least I get some curls. He loves to help me comb his hair and LOVES to squish the mousse through his fingers and rub it all over his head when we primp.

He doesn't look especially happy in these ones- He doesn't like to be naked. NOT ONE BIT. It's so funny when I get him changed every day. If I don't have his outfit all ready to put him into right away- He starts to fuss and won't crawl around or move on the carpet until his little body is covered up. Modest little guy!

Love these faces. He is such an expressive little man. He still isn't talking AT ALL- but he pulls all kinds of faces to let you know how he's feeling. He loves to giggle and clap his hands and he screams bloody murder if you take away his food or snacks before he's finished. He's started to babble a lot more and sing himself to sleep- which is adorable and he knows how to pull a pouty lip with the best of them.

Thad has been such a joy. This is the longest I've gone without being violently pregnant and miserable between kids. While that isn't exactly my choice (I desperately want #4)... I have enjoyed Thaddy's toddler-hood in a way I've never been able to before. With Tuck and Tate- I was lying on the couch trying to make it through each day and didn't get to appreciate this age as much. I've got a lot more energy with Thaddy and he's so much fun to chase after and play with. I'm constantly amazed at the things he figures out and how delightful it is to watch him discover new things.

I worry sometimes like Thaddy is getting left out (being the 3rd wheel) and doesn't get as much attention as his 2 big brothers- but lately they've been so cute with him. He's finally walking around the house- slowly- and the boys love to play with him. Tuck calls him his "pwecious baby bwother" and loves to make him giggle. Tate is an excellent sharer and showers him with cars and books. He loves following after them and I can't imagine our family without this little guy.
He really is our precious baby brother.

Burton Reunion

2009-07-15T00:38:00.005-06:00

Mom and Dad Burton were in charge of the annual Burton reunion and festivities this year- so I grudgingly packed up my babes and came prepared to "rough-it" for a few days.
Bless Aunt Nancy and Gaylen endlessly for letting us sleep in the cabin. No miserable tent experience for us this year. It. Was. Wonderful.
The boys had a great time playing in the dirt and following Danny around everywhere and it was a treat to see everyone. I've become something of a hermit lately, so it was nice to be seen.
Here are a few pics of the camping events.

Danny participating in a root-beer chugging contest. What a man.

Grandma "Fawa" with her 3 grandsons. Just chillin in the cabin.

LOVED the paddle-boat! Todd and Jodi were both good sports and entertained me and the boys all morning long. (while Danny fished)

Daddy and Tuck fishin'. Tucker caught a fish (with quite a bit of help from his pop) and can't stop talking about it.

Mama and her boys. Love these little guys!
It was a nice, relaxing trip-filled with some fun memories. Even if it was a camping trip...

Training Day

2009-06-25T00:08:00.007-06:00

So- Tucker is completely obsessed with Trains as of late- He loves watching trains on T.V., adores Thomas the Tank Engine show, loves setting up train tracks all over the front room, gets a kick out of pretending he's a caboose and following me around the house, making train noises constantly, looking for trains and train tracks while we're driving around town, and his favorite is going down the "twain" aisle at Wal-Mart to look for a new addition to his ever growing collection- ( he always tells me when he's being a good boy lately so I'll reward him with a new train). Spoiled?

For his 4th Birthday- We did a little research and found this adorable little train park in Farmington to take the boys to. It's called S&S Railroad Park- and it's just the cutest little park full of different sizes of miniature trains to ride, a train museum to walk around in, train sets to put together and watch, and a playground and park to relax in while the kids crawl around on toy trains, old full-size boxcars and such. ( and of course a shop to buy toy trains, hats and souvenirs in...) We made a day of it- and all the Burtons came with us to celebrate. Tucker was in hog heaven and hasn't stopped talking about it since.

It was fun to have all the fam together (except Brad and Ashlee) and to celebrate Tuck. I can't believe my babe is 4. He is such a sweet little bugger and so much fun. He just kept thanking Mama and Daddy for the train day- and keeps asking to go back and ride the "twains" again.

Pure White Trash

2009-05-22T13:46:00.008-06:00

SOGGY DIAPERS AND GRASS ALLERGIES

So- I totally forgot to pack swim trunks/ swim diapers for the boys last weekend when we went down to visit "Gwama and Gwampa Burton" and this is the result...

It's so flipping hot in St. George now that I can't, in good conscience, let the boys play outside fully dressed! It was slightly embarrassing but mostly adorable to watch them run around and scream to everyone within a 20 mile radius that "Mama lets us be NAKEY!!" The whole afternoon was quite the event.

The boys had a fabulous time running through the sprinklers in their diapers and they got some much needed sunshine on their lily white little bodies. Thaddy didn't like the sprinkler and stayed on my lap just squealing and watching his big brothers- but he enjoyed the sunshine and bare skin. Unfortunately, they all 3 suffer from grass allergies (thank you Danny) and had red splotchy cuts and scrapes and itchy skin for the next few days. Poor kids just can't catch a break.

I have since packed the Jeep with emergency swimwear/sunblock so no one in my parents neighborhood will be subjected to further soggy diaper sightings....

CHOMP!!

2009-05-07T23:49:00.007-06:00

A Disaster of Epic Proportions?

A few weekends ago- We went to visit the Jewkes in Price and took the boys to the Dinosaur Museum there at CEU. If you ask Tuck where we went he says "we went to the SEE-UM at CEU and saw big scary dinosaurs."

We thought for sure the boys would be in hog heaven at seeing all the big dinosaur bones- but turns out I've raised a couple of nancy boys...
They did kind of like the fish tank with turtles and fish ( as long as they didn't swim too close to the glass) but they were convinced that the Dinos were going to gobble them up.

The big teeth, claws, tails and bones scared the crap out of them- Tuck was at least game to look around and tell me how much he "didn't like the monsters" but Tate had a full on panic attack and spent most of the time on the floor or being held by various relatives. I guess we should have waited a while longer before subjecting them to the stuff of nightmares? We couldn't get too close to any of the statues and I had to keep reassuring them that these dinosaurs wouldn't eat them. Tucker was very worried about losing his fingers.

The huge mammoth skeleton spooked them both the most and they still talk about the "big scary elephant". (It kind of scared me too- That thing was HUGE!)

They did, however, LOVE the gift shop and we spoiled them shamelessly and tried to lessen the trauma with friendly looking plastic dinosaurs and other soft non threatening Dino toys. Thad (as usual) had a great time in the backpack squealing at everyone.

Now that we are home, the boys talk about the "SEE-UM" to everyone and act like it was a great adventure. We read our dinosaur books every night and they love to look through the photos of our ill-fated trip and I now can scientifically name a bunch of plastic dinosaurs when asked- so I guess it wasn't a total loss...

In The Pink

2009-05-04T22:02:00.015-06:00

EASTER PICS- APRIL 2009

My 3 Sons

Tucker Vaughn Jewkes 31/2 years old

Tate Daniel Jewkes 21/2 years old.

Thad Owen Jewkes 14 months old.

We tried out a new photographer for our Easter Pics and they turned out pretty well- The boys were monsters the whole time and Thad refused to smile- but at least I have photographic evidence that we did in fact celebrate Easter... I swear.
Happy Spring!!

True to Life- Tech Support

2009-03-31T22:36:00.004-06:00

So- Danny brought this home from work and I thought it was hilarious- Hopefully you agree...

Dear Tech Support,

Last year I upgraded from Boyfriend 5.0 to Husband 1.0 and noticed a distinct slow down in overall system performance, particularly in the flower and jewelry applications, which operated flawlessly under Boyfriend 5.0.

In addition, Husband 1.0 uninstalled many other valuable programs, such as Romance 9.5 and Personal Attention 6.5, and then installed undesirable programs such as NBA 5.0, NFL 3.0 and Golf Clubs 4.1.

Conversation 8.0 no longer runs, and Housecleaning 2.6 simply crashes the system. Please note that I have tried running Nagging 5.3 to fix these problems, but to no avail. What can I do?

Signed,

Desperate

DEAR DESPERATE,

First, keep in mind, Boyfriend 5.0 is an Entertainment Package, while Husband 1.0 is an operating system.

Please enter commands: ithoughyoulovedme.html, try to download Tears 6.2, and do not forget to install the Guilt 3.0 update. If these applications work as designed, Husband 1.0 should then automatically run the applications Jewlery 2.0 and Flowers 3.5.

However, remember, overuse of the above application can cause Husband 1.0 to default to Grumpy Silence 2.5, Happy Hour 7.0, or Beer 6.1. Please note that Beer 6.1 is a very bad program that will download the Snoring Loudly beta.

Whatever you do, DO NOT under any circumstances install Mother-in-Law 1.0 (it runs a virus in the background that will eventually seize control of all your system resources.)

In addition, please do not attempt to reinstall the Boyfriend 5.0 program. This is an unsupported application and will crash Husband 1.0.

In summary, Husband 1.0 is a great program, but it does have limited memory and cannot learn new applications quickly.

Good Luck-

Tech Support

"JUST ONE MORE PLEASE..."

2009-03-15T22:00:00.006-06:00

BOOKWORMS

So- We love Uncle Todd at our house and he is a FABULOUS baby-sitter/entertainer (minus diaper changes). It has been so fun to have him living just down the road from us while he's been going to school.

The boys wait for "Unk-Todd" to come over each night and read to them. They make piles of books all day long- getting ready for their Story Time with Uncle. They plan and scheme and know how to milk it for all it's worth too. Todd hasn't yet figured out how to say NO to his nephews, so Story Time is about 2 hours long and they read just about every book we own... (about 3 times each)

I have to admit that I look forward to this 2 hour break every night just as much as the boys do-
I get to do a bit of my own reading in books WITHOUT pictures. Priceless.

Thanks Todd!!

Fee Fi Fo Fum- Thaddy Babe Is Turning One!!

2009-02-19T21:26:00.009-07:00

Thad Owen Jewkes

February 19, 2008

4:41 pm

7 lbs. 11 oz.
Pet form of Thaddeus from the Aramaic and means "courageous" or "praised"-
may also be from the Greek which means "divine gift" or "gift of God".

Blessing Day may 4th, 2008

I honestly can't believe Thaddy is 1 already. This year has flown by! He is such a precious little man. All our boys have been wonderful but Thaddy is just so sweet and tender. We never hear a peep from him and he is really so easy going. He has been an easy baby right from the start. We went into the Hospital about 7:30 in the morning to be induced and he just came easy as pie in about 19 minutes after my water broke. He didn't even cry until he got his little shots in his feet. I kept asking Danny if he was alright cuz he wasn't making a sound!!

June 2008

He is a sweet snuggly little man and is such a joy to have in our home. His big brothers were horrible teethers and fought giving up the bottle, binkies and being swaddled, but it seems like no matter what we throw at this kid- he just takes it in stride with no fussing. He doesn't fight new foods or textures like the other 2 , he sleeps like a dream and just goes with the flow.

July 2008

He is so much fun lately with his crawling and getting into EVERYTHING. He loves to follow after his big brothers and grab their toys away from them and loves to play peek-a-boo and giggle with Tucker and Tate. He is starting to pull up on everything and has had a few bad falls lately- It's heartbreaking to hear him cry. He LOVES his exersaucer lately and loves to bounce and jump til he's sweaty and exhausted. More than once lately- I'll come into the front room to find him asleep on his feet, slumped over his toys. It's so flipping cute!

September 2008

His 1 year check-up is next week- so I will have to give his stats and info then- but he is a healthy and happy baby boy and we love him so much.

December 2008

It's been kind of a challenge to find presents for him since we have just about every toy ever made... but he was in desperate need of some new church clothes and we had to get him a big boy car seat- yes. We now have 3 car seats in our Jeep and it's crazy squishy. He loves to play with blocks and anything that crinkles or shakes. The noisier the better. He loves his binkies and taggie blankets and wont fall asleep without his music box playing lullabies.
Daddy and Thaddy Today

We just had a quiet little family party here at home today but Saturday we will have all the fam- damily here for the big party. Expect some great pics of Thaddy getting into cake and playing with the wrapping paper...

We love you Thaddy Brother- Happy 1st Birthday!!

IMPORTANT!!

2009-01-27T22:55:00.004-07:00

To avoid danger of suffocation, keep this plastic bag away from babies and children. Do not use in cribs, beds, carriages or play pens. This bag is not a toy.

Is there a problem?

Color Me Confused

2009-01-23T21:53:00.003-07:00

AARGH!!

So- I've been repainting the house- room by room these last few months and I'm so flipping frustrated. I must be the single worst person in the world when it comes to picking out colors for walls. I can't seem to get anything right! I mean for heavens sake- I work with color and mix shades for hair color daily with no problems- but can't manage to paint a blasted white wall. I am intimately acquainted with the color wheel with its shades and hues and in my head- everything looks perfect- but it is NOT translating on the walls. My Pottery Barn dreams are being crushed by my own hand.

The first room I tried to re-do was our kitchen a few months ago and it took me 3 different shades and countless coats of paint before I finally got it right. I was going for like a wheat color- a muted yellow/gold and ended up brighter than sunshine yellow all over the place. It's still a few shades brighter than I would like, but the thought of climbing up to paint above all the cupboards again makes me want to sob and throw things. I had to redo it 3 times before it was tolerable...
I repainted the master bedroom right before we got our new furniture (thank you again football season) and it actually turned out pretty well- a lovely restful mossy green that looks fabulous with my black bedroom set. I didn't have to re-paint this room.
However, I bought a whole new bedspread ensemble and tried to match the master bathroom paint color to the flowers on the spread and curtains. I was going for a nice mellow coral color and it ended up being a retina burning neon orange. And then when I added white to tone it down, the second coat ended up looking like 1985 peach. Awesome. All I needed was some geese and a raffia wreath. I'm now on my 5th coat trying to undo the horror of every shade of orange imaginable. My hands ache and throb from clutching the paintbrush and my hair is permanently highlighted with orange paint.
I have also been repainting my old bedroom furniture for the boys and I can't even get the blue for that the right shade. I'm trying to match the night stands, entertainment center and armoire to their other pieces I've painted or bought in the past and it's proving to be impossible task. I was all excited to put up bead board and make a train shelf around the room and paint the upper half the same shade of blue, but the thought of painting another room 5 times over is exhausting.
It's not like I go, close my eyes and just grab a color when I buy the paint either. I take swatches, and fabric samples and experiment with textures and finishes. I do my research and flip through countless catalogs and books. I just cannot figure this out!!
After all the re-do's and half used gallons of paint- I think it would've been cheaper to hire a professional painter to do the whole house and it would've saved my carpal tunnels... I've never shied away from color or do-it-yourself projects but maybe I need a healthy dose of fear?
This is why I've been terrible about blogging lately- I'm painting myself into corners. Literally.

On the plus side- If anyone is in the market for peach, sunshine yellow, neon orange or various shades of "liberty blue" paint though- I've got plenty available...

Seventh Heaven

2009-01-02T21:05:00.007-07:00

Happy Anniversary!!

Dan and I have been driving each other crazy for 7 years now- Hard to believe it's been that long!!

The longer we're married, the more grateful I am for my choice. Dan is a wonderful companion and my best friend. We've grown and struggled together and I honestly can't imagine a life without him now. I love this man and I'm so glad he agreed to put up with me for eternity...

Choosing a life partner is such a crap shoot- I mean- How well do you really know the person you're marrying? I knew that I loved Danny and wanted to be with him 7 years ago but I didn't know the full extent of his character, his work ethic or his capacity to love and be a Father. I didn't know if he was a hard worker or a closet gambler, if his convictions of the Gospel were as strong as mine or if he valued family and home life as much as I did. We were together for almost a year before we got married- and I thought I knew what we were getting into- but does anyone ever really know? You can talk and share and confide in each other- but until your lives are joined and you're faced with working together for everything- You just don't know! When you think about it- It's kind of a miracle that anyone finds their mate or stays together. The factors that brought us together almost 8 years ago were strong enough to make us want to marry- but I didn't know or love Dan half as much as I do now. Our day to day life and shared dreams have brought us closer every day. I am so grateful for the man he was then and the Father and Husband he has become now. After all my mistakes and poor life choices- I think I really lucked out with this guy! No one else could suit me better and I really don't think there is anyone else out there who could put up with me as well as Danny does.

I never had a crystallizing moment when I knew was supposed to marry Danny- No chorus of angels or sudden ping of inspiration. I was just always calm and happy with Dan. He claims he knew from the first time we met that we were going to be together- but I took a bit longer to agree. He was just always comfortable to be around and we just fit. We enjoyed the same things and I never felt like I needed to be anything better than what I was for him. Not to say that I didn't need to improve- ( boy do I need to improve) but that Dan loved me just the way I was- temper tantrums, anxiety, depression and all. After years of miserable boyfriends and poor choices, fights and family drama- Danny was refreshing and easy. There were no problems, no drama or conflicts. I think that's how I knew this was going to work- He was the first guy I'd ever brought home that got along with my family... He fit right in from the beginning and I'm pretty sure my Dad would trade me straight across for Danny if given the choice!

One of my best memories of our Wedding Day was when we met at the Salt Lake Temple that morning. I didn't feel nervous or concerned- even though I hadn't gotten my "Answer" yet. I had prayed the entire time we were dating, just like everyone tells you to, to find out if Dan was "The One". I guess Heavenly Father just knew I needed to make this decision myself and trust in my own instincts. As we walked into the temple, I just remember thinking and praying- "Okay- I'm going through with this unless you tell me different- Here I go"...
and here I am. Looking at Danny- I just knew everything was going to be fine and there was no reason to doubt.

It's not a very romantic story- but kind of fits us. There wasn't anything dramatic about it- just a feeling of calm. Dan always jokes that if he knew then what he knows now, he would have run screaming in the other direction but he also says that he just felt calm and happy on that fateful day.

In the 7 years that we've been together, we've accomplished some great things, made LOTS of mistakes, created 3 beautiful children, learned important life lessons and grown up together in great strides.

Here's to the next 7 years!!

Merry Little Christmas

2008-12-30T21:43:00.010-07:00

Christmas 2008 was a sweet simple affair spent with family.

Christmas Eve is always spent at my parents house in St. George. We enjoyed a lovely Christmas dinner with all the fixins' and then we all participated in the Christmas program complete with scripture reading and Christmas carols. The boys were so excited to open their presents that the "reverent" part of Christmas Eve was a little less so with them whining for gifts. It was great to spend time with the Burton's and exchange presents. My mom always gives the boys Christmas books and we're amassing quite the collection. We had to read the stories over and over and Tucker insisted on sleeping with his new storybook.

Here's a few of our favorites...

Driving back to Cedar about 11:00 put us right in the middle of a snow storm and although it was a little scary, it was fun to drive in a winter wonderland. Tucker kept telling us he could see "Santa Cwaus" flying outside the window with his "wain-deer". After we got the boys to bed- we set up all the presents and fell into bed exhausted.

We really enjoyed our little Christmas here in Cedar. The boys loved all their gifts and I think Danny had just as much fun with the train set and remote control cars as the boys did... Thad just crawled around and played with the wrapping paper the entire time and was our little Christmas angel.

Thankfully, the boys weren't so excited that they woke up too terribly early- so we all rolled out of bed around 11:30 and had a leisurely Christmas brunch. Danny made a delicious breakfast for all of us to enjoy and the boys were wriggling with excitement in their high chairs looking at all the presents under the tree.

The boys were thrilled with all their loot from Santa- making a gorgeous mess all over the living room for a few hours. After all the excitement, I then laid them down on their "tristmas pillows" with some red and green milk (food coloring) Dan gave them and we watched Christmas movies the rest of the afternoon. They had to have their new toys all around them- but were quite content to lay down and relax. A Perfect Christmas Day.

The biggest hit were these obnoxious noisy Diesels that Dan found. The boys love driving them around in the kitchen and honestly I think we could've just given them that one toy and they would have been thrilled. They all got tons of clothes, a new bicycle each, a train set and more cars and trucks than 3 boys will EVER need. They got crayons and coloring books and a bunch of new bath toys and accessories in their stockings. They also got new bedding and blankets that I made. Danny found a cute little bowling set that they have loved setting up in the hall and chucking the plastic bowling ball at.
Danny was really sweet and got me some great gifts this year. He sent Jodi out on a spending spree, so she picked out some fabulous clothes and jewelry for me and then he got me some great stocking stuffers ( perfume, a new Bumble watch, gift cards to various stores) and some comfy new sweater boots.

This year was fun for Tucker. He is finally grasping the idea of Santa and keeps showing us all of the presents Santa brought him. He keeps asking us when Santa is coming back and continues shrieking Jingle Bells at the top of his lungs...

Dan's parents came down to visit us over the weekend and that dragged out the holiday a little bit longer. They always spoil us and the boys loved opening more gifts. I seriously need to clean out the closets and give away half of everything we own to the D.I. to make room for all the new junk we got!!

I really enjoyed the holiday- but I have to say that I'm really looking forward to the New Year and the changes it will bring. I've never been so happy to take down the tree and start on the deep cleaning as I have been this year. The house always seems so much bigger after all the holiday decorations are put away...

Here's wishing you all Happy Holidays and a wonderful New Year!!

Happy Holidays!

The Big #29!

2008-12-21T20:31:00.006-07:00

Today Is A Birthday- I Wonder For Who?

We Know That It's Someone

Who's Right In This Room....

So Look All Around You For Somebody- Who?

He's Smiling And Happy....

My Goodness It's You!

Happy Birthday Danny

From All Of Us To You

Happy Birthday Danny

From Mama And Babies Too!

We Congratulate You

And Pray Good Luck Follows You

Happy Birthday Danny

May All Of Your Good Dreams Come True!

My Dan is 29 today. It's always a bit of a bummer having a Birthday so close to Christmas- but I did my best to make his day a nice one. We obviously didn't get to go out for a fabulous meal or party (since it's Sunday) but we had a nice little shindig here with Todd and Jodi visiting. Dan LOVES Chicken Cordon Bleu- so we had a nice homemade meal with all the fixins and then Dan blew out the candles on his very own Cherry Pie. (He's not much of a cake person) The boys got a kick out of singing all our birthday songs (over and over) and helping Danny unwrap his presents. (great practice for Christmas)

Dan is SOO hard on clothes- that I never have to worry about what to buy him for holidays and special events. He got an entirely new wardrobe of new work clothes, shoes and socks and ties from me- No one can ever say he wears his outfits more than a few times in a row because he's usually destroyed them by then. He is notorious for leaving pens in the pockets, ripping holes in shirts or spilling various sauces all over himself and his ties. He scuffs his shoes and wears our the hems on his pants before they've had a chance to go out of style...

I also got him a few hoodies and outfits to wear around the house. (He does get awfully sick of wearing dress clothes day in and out.) The boys helped me pick out Oreos (his favorite cookies- anyone who spends anytime with him knows this) and Cologne and a new pair of slippers to give Daddy. He is constantly stealing my pink fuzzy slippers when he has to run out to the mailbox or take the garbage out so we picked out a nice manly pair for Dad to kick around the house in.

I'm so grateful and lucky to have Danny. I may grouse and moan and harp on him to hang up his towels or take out the trash- but he is a wonderful husband and adorable father.

Here are 29 things we love about Dan.

He has a great sense of humor- He loves to laugh and tease and can always lighten the mood. When he laughs- It's a full body chuckle and you can't help but laugh right along with him. I can never be ornery for long if Dan is determined to cheer me up.
He has a wonderfully developed work ethic. He works hard and whole-heartedly. I've never known him to call in late or fake a sick day. He throws himself wholly into his job and takes his responsibilities seriously.
He is loyal. Once you've made friends with Dan- He'll defend you and help you til the end. If there's something he can do for you or help you with- He never hesitates.
He never puts himself first- He makes sure everyone else is settled and comfortable before he worries about himself.
He loves his boys. Completely.
He has no problem expressing his feelings. If he loves you- He says so. I love listening to him talk to his family on the phone. He never ends a conversation without telling his parents or brother that he loves them.
Dan is an optimist. Even when things are horrible, he finds the silver lining and never gets too down. (very nice for me since I'm a constant downer)
Dan loves movies. All movies and I never have to beg him for a chick flick. A movie with Dan is a full experience- popcorn, candy, drink and at least 15 minutes early to fully enjoy ALL previews.
He is affectionate. I never have to beg for a hug or snuggle and the boys have picked this up from him. We are a very "touchy- feely" family.
Dan is generous. Not just with money and time, but with information and advice. If there is something he can help you get or do- He will. He has helped countless friends and family with financial advice, get into homes or get qualified for loans. (While I would be tempted to keep this advice to myself, since I'm hateful and don't want anyone to have anything better than me- Dan will go out of his way to help you better your situation.)
Dan CANNOT keep a tune or rhyme to save his life- but he makes up hilarious off-key songs to sing to the boys and always makes us giggle. He also sings every week at church and always encourages the boys to sing primary songs with him- even though he sounds like a cat whose been run over...
Dan is the worst handy-man EVER. He ruins everything he tries to fix, create or repair and admits it. I never have to beg for a professional though- He calls for me and is happy to pay the price.
However, Dan is WONDERFUL with cars and we seldom have to take ours in. He takes care of all repairs and treats our vehicles like our big metal children.
Dan is tender and kind and is mindful of those less fortunate or struggling. I've never known him to mock or tease. I love this about him.
Dan would never make anyone feel embarrassed or uncomfortable. This was one of the first things I loved about him. I knew he'd never embarrass me, mock me or put me in uncomfortable situations.
Dan has a strong sense of right and wrong- and a bullet proof Testimony of the Gospel. I can always lean on him and trust him to make the correct and righteous decisions for our family.
Dan isn't proud. If he needs help or doesn't know how to do something- He'll ask for and accept help, advice and direction.
Dan is never afraid to try new things. He is game for new experiences (barring new foods or restaurants) and has a wonderful sense of fun and adventure.
Dan loves his Sunday afternoon naps. Give him a hoodie, snuggly blanket and fluffy pillow and nothing makes him happier. Simple Pleasures.
When I'm in the hospital after having given birth or sick with the Flu- He never leaves my side. He is a doting and sweet husband.
He's not afraid to show his emotions. He is tender about his boys and tears up at every injury, accomplishment and growth spurt. He also occasionally is tender about our 7 years together....
Dan is ENDLESSLY patient with me. With my moods, my habits, my spending, my weight gain and my stubborn hateful streak.
He plays with the boys. He teases and wrestles and reads stories. He listens to their jabber and giggles with them. He'll even occasionally change a poopey diaper....
Dan loves the holidays and clings determinedly to traditions.
Dan loves family. His and Mine and most importantly our little Family of 5. He is devoted and does all he can to keep us close.
Dan lives in the moment. He always says nothing can be served by worrying, stressing or being angry over past offences. He never holds a grudge and gets over things quickly. He's favorite quote (which he says to me often) is that no one can ruin your day but you.
Dan always smells divine. He showers like 5 times a day and is the most hygienic man I know.
He makes me feel like a million dollars.
Dan is easy-going and easy to please. All he needs is family, friends a comfy sweatshirt and a Coke.

I Love You Danny! Happy 29th Birthday!

As Years Go By

They Seem To Do

The Nicest Things For You

And Every Time You Add One More

You're Twelve Months Dearer Than Before

A Very Happy Birthday

Especially For You!

Naughty or Nice?

2008-12-15T21:57:00.007-07:00

So- This year our Ward decided to do a "Breakfast With Santa" party. Very cute idea in theory- telling everyone to just come in their jammies- but my children were not in the mood to be cute. We don't get up at our house until around 10:30 in the morning (yes- I am blessed with late sleepers- Thank Goodness) and the party started at 9 sharp. First sign of impending doom.
The babes didn't understand why I woke them up so early and were ornery to be shuffled into coats and out the door without their morning milk and snuggles. Dan was ornery as well - since he hates ward parties (where he has to pretend to eat other peoples food)- so he was whining right along with the toddlers. I was just trying to be a cute Mama and get the kids out for some Holiday cheer and another Santa sighting. In hindsight- I should've just pulled the covers up over my head and stayed in bed.
The boys wouldn't eat anything that the Ward had provided, Dan was sulking and I was feeling crummy, frustrated and hot under the collar. Tate decided to go boneless and throw a fit just about the entire time, screaming and crying (yes- we were THAT family) resulting with him hitting his head about a million times on the gym floor. Lovely.

Tuck decided to be extra clingy and wouldn't go anywhere without his "lovey" Geoffrey, who got absolutely filthy and subsequently lost. They wouldn't sit still on the chairs, they didn't enjoy the program and then just decided to sob the entire time we were waiting in line to talk to Santa.

Here's the pictures of the meltdown- Tate kicking and fighting, Tucker whining for his car, Tate making a run for it off the stage and then Tucker's nuclear implosion.

They had been so cute at the Dickens Festival that I was excited to get another shot with St. Nick- but Tate was just plain done and Tuck didn't understand why we had to wait in line. By the time we got up to Santa- Tate just shrieked and fought the pictures (and the poor man posing as Santa) and Tuck began to cry because Santa didn't have a toy car for him. We had told him to ask Santa for something he wanted for Christmas- but apparently Christmas is every day for Tuck. He was devastated that Santa wouldn't give him a car and instead gave him a crummy old Candy Cane and Ornament. (which he proceeded to throw and break) Holiday Memories. Thad- as usual though- was a perfect angel. Have I mentioned that I love this boy?

You can see Tuck here trying to trade his Candy Cane for a Car- The cute Young Women who were dressed as Elves didn't quite know what to do with my monstrous children.

By this time- I was ready to throw myself on the floor with Tate and sob as well- so we made a really graceful exit with me clutching both boys under my arms and stomping out of the church. I was embarrassed, frustrated and disillusioned. This was NOT like the Christmas Specials on T.V. and I am convinced that my children were the worst behaved there and everyone is still wondering who allowed me to reproduce...

**Well- Come to find out- We were all so touchy and irrational because we had the beginnings of a KILLER Flu attack. We have all been puking and fevering and clutching the Saltines ever since Saturday afternoon. Merry Flippin' Christmas.**

A Few Of My Favorite Things

2008-12-11T00:21:00.010-07:00

Just naming some of the reasons I'm uncharacteristically cheerful and upbeat this time of year.
Christmas Music- All of it! Blaring it from the Day after Halloween until New Years Day. I have an iPod in every room and about 50 different versions of "The Christmas Song". Dan is just about ready to hang himself...

Adding A New Nativity Set To My Collection Each Year- The boys are actually grasping the concept this year a little more and its been fun to talk about the Christmas Story with them. They love to carry Jesus around very reverently and talk about the Stable and his "special bed."

Christmas Candles-Anything Cinnamon or Gingerbread or Pine Tree Scented. Dan is allergic to real trees so I have to make do with a candle scent. It's a bummer, but at least I don't have to vacuum up any pine needles?

Annual Christmas Pics- The stress of finding matching outfits and then matching the pics to the stationary and stickers and then to the stamps for the annual newsletter. Worth the worry? Jury is still out.
The Countdown Calendar- Each day is a little pocket of Christmas Joy. The boys love finding their prize or activity idea for the day. (and who am I kidding- I love counting down every day too)

Decorating The Tree- This year we went with the "non-breakable" and "child-proof" decorating approach... Only the crochet snowflakes made the cut this year and they're all strangely gravitating around the lower half of the tree. Hmmm
Christmas Jammie's- I know you're supposed to wait until Christmas Eve- but they're so cute that I just had to break the rules!

Temple Square- the lights, the chaos, the hot cocoa, the freezing appendages, the crowds and the canned music blaring from the speakers. Nothin' better!

The Gingerbread houses- sticky and frustrating and always half as attractive as the one on the box. ( and yes- We decorated it on the floor- That way I can just mop up all the mess and not be upset when all the icing ends up smeared everywhere but on the house. The boys LOVED placing the candies one by one in strategic places... Very artistic.

Just a few of the things that make the bitter cold of December totally worth it. I Love The Holidays and every cliched tradition there is. Merry Christmas!!

Santa Babies

2008-12-05T02:22:00.005-07:00

Here's a few of the pics of my boys with St. Nick through the years. It's a little sad to see how much they change from year to year- Wonder if they'll still be OK to sit on Santa's knee when their all 15? My Mom and I have tried to drag the babes to the St. George Jubilee of Trees and The Dickens Festival every year where I subject them to long lines and sitting on a strange mans lap for unspecified amounts of time. Gotta love the holidays.

Here is Tuck at 6 months old- December 2005 at Jubilee of Trees. Here's where the tradition started. He loved Santa this first year and posed so nicely...

Tate looks like a sickly troll/elf here- Not the best pic. This was his first Santa sighting at 3 months and he fussed the entire time. December 2006 Dickens Festival. Ahh- the memories

Tucker refused to sit on Santa's lap without Mama this year without screaming- GRRR. Tuck is 18 months old and Tate is 3 months old- and I'm thin! woot. December 2006 Jubilee of Trees (and yes- it was awkward to sit on Santa's lap- can you tell by my grimace?)

I love the Jubilee of Trees Santa the very best. He's so pretty- but we missed him 2007 and this year. Boo.

Tuck and Tate with at the Ward Christmas Party 2006. Tuck's socks are showing and it REALLY bothers me.

Tucker and Tate= Polar Opposites. Tuck was so terrified that you can almost see him turning purple in this pic and Tate was ready to go home with the Man in Red.

It. Was. Awesome. (and I was a very emotional 81/2 month pregnant mother) December 2007 Dickens Festival.

The lighting isn't the best in this pic- Tuck looks blue. But no one is screaming!?! and they're all faced the right direction. Small miracles. Merry Christmas 2008 from the Dickens Festival- and yes- It is the same Santa you're seeing in every picture and we've become quite good friends these last 3 years- I'm thinking of adding him to our will...

We are planning on getting Thaddy's 1st Christmas with Santa pics taken at the Gateway on Saturday- Anyone out there have any suggestions or good experiences there? or am I setting myself up for grief and sobbing on the way home? anywhere else we should try??

Bumble and Friends

2008-12-03T20:30:00.005-07:00

One of my most favorite parts of Christmas is all the fabulous movies I get to yank out of cold storage and watch repeatedly until Dan wants to kill me. Thanksgiving night marks the first viewing of "It's a Wonderful Life" (to remind me of all my blessings while I'm cursing at the Christmas Tree) and then each night thereafter is reserved for another cinematic gem. Dan loves "Elf" and I enjoy "White Christmas" but I have yet to find anyone who will watch "Babes in Toyland" with me. (except Jodi who is sadly too far away.) The boys have fully embraced this tradition and can now repeat word for word almost all the lines from "Rudolph", "Frosty" and "Mickey's Christmas Carol". I loves me my Christmas movies!!

Tate- however- is terrified of the Abominable Snowman and wakes up from his naps now crying "BUMBLE-SCARE TATE" over and over. We have a love/hate relationship with said Bumble and can't decide if he's too scary to make watching Rudolph worth it or not. Tate has to sit right next to me on the couch and we have to talk about why the Bumble is being so mean to the deer. Tucker has decided that he's just ornery because his "teefs" hurt. He's a nice Bumble after he gets his teeth fixed by the Dentist.

Every time I suggest we watch something else, though, the boys cry in protest and plunk themselves down in front of the T.V. for some more Bumble Luvin. What's a Mother to do?

Here's my list of current Christmas Faves- Any suggestions to further my collection?

Holiday Celebration with Mickey and Pals ( Mickey's Good Deed, Peculiar Penguins, The Clock Watcher, Rescue Dog, Corn Chips, Lend A Paw, Toy Tinkers)
Classic Holiday Stories (The Small One, Pluto's Christmas Tree, Mickey's Christmas Carol)
Mickey's Once Upon A Christmas
Frosty the Snowman
The Muppet Christmas Carol
Babes in Toyland - The really old one with Annette Funicello-
Holiday Inn
White Christmas
Disney's Very Merry Christmas Sing Along Songs
Charlie Brown Christmas
Miracle on 34th Street (both old and new versions- but I LOVE Dylan McDermott most)
A Christmas Story
Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer
Santa Claus is Comin to Town
The Little Drummer Boy
The Santa Clause
National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation
Elf
Dr. Seuss' How the Grinch Stole Christmas (the original animated one)
It's a Wonderful Life
Luke:2
Mr. Kruegers Christmas
Home Alone

Addressing the Obvious

2008-11-30T22:20:00.003-07:00

So- It's that time of year again and I am now begging for everyone to give me their addresses so I can send out the Christmas cards (before the holidays escape me completely) . PLEASE!! If you don't want to leave them under comments- just email me at dhjewkes@yahoo.com. Thank You.

I'm It! Again.

2008-11-19T15:48:00.005-07:00

Six and Six

Here is the 6th picture from our 6th folder. Cute Idea- and I totally forgot I had these pics.

Look how little Thad is! These were taken in June of this year while Dan's family was here for a visit. They come down each summer to compete in the Utah Summer Games and hang out with us "Southern Utahns". This is Thad at 5 months, Tucker right after his 3rd birthday and Tate at 21 months. It's crazy how much they change and how quickly! This seems like a lifetime ago.

My darling boys are hanging out with their one and only cousin Traxton Jewkes (at the time) and having a great time. (Jimmy and Heidi Jewkes just had their 2nd son Jaxson in August- so my boys now have 2 cousins to torture and play with.) We don't see the Jewkes family that often- Traveling with kids is basically my version of cruel and unusual punishment- so seeing the fam without a car ride is always a treat.

Tagged

2008-11-14T23:36:00.003-07:00

EIGHT

*8 Shows I Watch*
-Bones
-House
-Greek
-Private Practice
-The Office
-Pushing Daisies
-Sesame Street
-Bob the Builder

*8 Favorite Restaurants*
(not an awful lot of options in Cedar...)
-Iggy's
-Olive Garden
-Ruby Tuesdays
-Chili's
-IHOP
-Lupitas
-Pizza Factory
-McDonald's (or anywhere with a playground for the kids)

*8 Things That Happened Yesterday*
-Tuck went to preschool
-Tate got the flu- all over the living room sofa
-Thad said "MAMAMAMA" for the 1st time
-I got the flu all over the kitchen floor
-wasted WAAY too much money and time on iTunes
-dishes, laundry and scrubbed toilets
-dug out all the outdoor Christmas decorations
-went to bed with fever and chills

*8 Things I'm Looking Forward To*
-Twilight Movie
-Girls Weekend in Vegas
-Jodi visiting for Thanksgiving
-getting over this flu!!
-The Holiday rush at the Salon-
-SNOW!
-Thad sleeping through the night without a "comfort" bottle
-Tucker getting potty trained- ideally without any involvement from me :)

*8 Things On My Wish List*
-to be finished with all my Christmas shopping NOW
-carpets professionally cleaned
-Swedish massage
-pedicure
-to sleep in (without guilt)
-4th baby (BOY please!)
-new laptop
-king size electric blanket

*8 Things I Love*
-Dan
-my 3 baby boys
-warm fluffy towels straight from the dryer
-thick chunky sweaters and wool socks
-scalding hot showers
-iTUNES and AudioBooks
-my afternoon naps with the boys. 2:00-5:30 every day- Heaven.
-take-out

*8 Things I Can't Stand*
-wet socks
-dirty sheets
-unsolicited advice
-news radio / talk radio
-reality TV
-finding and mating socks
-dusty furniture
-WHINING- This is a new one the boys have discovered recently

Yes- There's More

2008-11-13T02:27:00.009-07:00

The Fabulous Five

Dan and Hollie- Tucker, Tate and Thad Jewkes

The Jewkes Family- November 2008

My Beautiful Baby Boys

I know, I know- You're all thinking-"More Pictures"- "Seriously?"
But here is our latest batch- an attempt at Family Christmas Pics. There are quite a few of the boys that turned out pretty well- and a precious few of all of us together. Dan and I just couldn't quite pull off the pics this time- either I was making an odd face or looking a bit to chubby or he was pulling a goofy look or had his eyes closed. Oh well- At least the boys look good!!

Thanks to Nicole Bulkley for yet another great photo session. Even with sleep deprived and freezing cold babies- we got some great shots. I have to admit I am a photo junkie- I'm desperate to capture every phase these precious babes of mine go through (if not as desperate to capture every awful phase I've gone through- baby fat, bad hair, dark circles under my eyes and all...)

They just seem to change and grow so fast- It's heartbreaking to think that someday all I'll have are these pictures to remind me of my darling little boys. This is why I spend gobs and gobs of money on pictures every month. To stave off the inevitable heartache...

Daddy's Office

2008-11-10T21:22:00.011-07:00

The boys love going to visit Dan at work. Every time we get in the car- Tuck begs to go to "The Office" and Tate screams "Daddy's Work!" They love getting suckers and smarties from the tellers and running around the lobby and meeting new people. They make a huge mess with their sticky candy fingers, get WAY too riled up, climb on every surface available and sob when we have to leave. Here's some shots of them making a scene and loving every minute of it. Thad, however, is well behaved, polite and stays right where I leave him. Gotta love the Car Seat...

I had just gotten Dan's other office across town all decorated and snazzy when he transferred half of his time spent at work over to the Providence Branch to take over as Manager. I now have another blank slate to decorate and I'm on a shopping frenzy for more "manly" picture frames, plants, and doo-dads. I guess it's a good thing we get our pictures taken like 3 times a month so there's plenty of pics to fill up Dan's two offices. :)

Tricks and Treats

2008-10-24T21:44:00.002-06:00

Here's my sweet babes in their Halloween Costumes. Halloween is probably my LEAST favorite holiday- just cuz I don't like creepy or scary stuff AT ALL- but I am loving the cute costumes and dressing up the boys for Trick and Treating purposes. (and who can dislike Halloween candy?) It will be a sad, sad day for me when they decide they want to be skeletons, or vampires or Freddie Kruger...

Happy Halloween!

Thaddy Brother

2008-10-10T14:14:00.005-06:00

Quarterback or Linebacker?

Here's Thad's other Collage that I had done for his 6 mos. I think this one turned out pretty cute as well. He doesn't look as much of a big boy in these ones- He still has that "Baby Look" to his face- which I'm glad about. They grow up too stinkin' fast!!

Interesting little tidbit though- This little romper Thad is wearing is an 18 month size and it fits him pretty darn well- a little long on the sleeves but still passable and Tucker still wears it to school. Yes- You read that right. Thad is weighing in at 19 pounds (as of his 6 mos. check up), Tate is a whopping 29 pounds (as of his 2 year check up) and Tucker is still a measly 22 pounds (as of his 3 year check up). My poor Tuck is now getting "hand-me-ups" from his younger brothers. This whole sharing clothes thing to save money is really NOT working out. Any suggestions on how to fatten up a 3 year old?

Thaddy Angel Baby

2008-10-09T12:33:00.006-06:00

Ride 'Em Cowboy!

Thad is the most fun baby to play with and dress up for pictures. He is so good natured and easy going. I absolutely love this little man. I took him the other day to get some pics taken for his 6 month milestone and he was smiley and cheerful the whole time. (Yes, I realize he is now 7 1/2 months old- but I'm trying- Please give me props for trying at least...)

Thanks to Aunt Becky Butterfield for the cute little cowboy outfit he's wearing- It finally fits him and I was excited to do a different photo shoot with him. It seems like all I ever get pictures of lately are cars and tires or trucks and sports so these Cowboy pics were a breath of fresh air. He LOVED riding on the rocking horse and kept making the funniest faces! If the rocking horse looks a little worse for wear, it's because it was mine as a little girl. My Great-Grandpa Spencer made it for me and it was a much loved toy. The boys now all love riding on it and it's getting A LOT of use.

Funny story though- When we got home from the picture session, Thaddy was snotty and coughing and had broken out in little hives and I was feeling depressed thinking that our head-cold was back to wreak more havoc on the Jewkes family. But then I remembered that we had used hay bales as a cute background for his pics and I didn't even think about allergies. Dan is violently allergic to hay and grass and it looks like Thaddy inherited this allergy!! Poor baby was puffy and miserable and congested all day thanks to his picture happy mother. ( I was soo relieved it was only the hay and not the cold again though- I can totally handle allergies.)

Thad has been such a joy. He is never fussy or unhappy and lights up anytime anyone gives him extra attention. He is wriggling and rolling everywhere and loves to scooch over to his brothers and steal their cars lately. It's hilarious to watch him trying to keep up with his bigger siblings- He always wants to be in the middle of the action and is our little social butterfly. He smiles at everything and loves to giggle and squeal. I can't believe he's 7 1/2 months already. He's growing up so quickly. We love you Thaddy baby!

2008-10-09T00:30:00.005-06:00

'Til We Meet Again

Dan's Grandma Fail passed away this last Thursday and it's really got me thinking about things. She was very ill and it was her time to go, but it's always hard to lose a loved one. There were lots of sweet stories and remembrances shared by the grand kids and children. The Funeral was in Elmo, Utah and she was buried in Orangeville next to her husband Frederick Vaughn Fail. I just keep thinking about the great reunion she must be having with all her loved ones in Heaven.

I am so lucky! I still have all 4 of my Grandparents and 1 of my Greats left. This was Dan's last Grandparent to pass. He says it's a weird feeling to know that all his Grandparents are gone now-a little bit more lonely and a bit more on his own now. I rely so much on the testimonies and strength of my family- I mean- These Grandparents are the architects of my whole extended family! The cornerstones of my faith and everything I've been taught to believe in and shape my life after. Not only my belief in religion, but my ideals, expectations and what I need to do to be a good a valid person in general. It's kind of crazy (and disconcerting and not to mention heartbreaking) to think about them not being around to keep the family in check and to teach me and lead by their examples.

I've been thinking a little bit about what I would like my farewell to be like and trying to think of what I would want my loved ones to remember about me. I have to say, it's kind of depressing. I am a sarcastic, hateful, pessimistic sour puss and I'm afraid that my family will be hard pressed to come up with good things to say about me. I once asked Dan what kind of candy I would be and the only thing he could say were Lemon Heads or Sour Patch Kids. Yeesh!

I guess it's a good thing that I have the rest of my life to improve and shape my family into what they should be. Funerals are basically of a tribute to the life you've led- to see all the people you've affected and loved. It's interesting ( and terrifying) to think about my life in the future- How will my children turn out? Will I teach them and lead them to live good and honest lives that will be a tribute to me as a person and as a Mother? Will I have close friends that will mourn my passing? What will be my accomplishments and contributions to society? Will my testimony and example be enough to shape an entire extended family? These thoughts are keeping me up at night. What kind of architect will I be? Will I be a good cornerstone for my children and grandchildren?

These are just a few of the random thoughts giving me heartburn lately. For all of her faults and flaws that I'm sure Dan's Grandma Fail had- She managed to create and maintain a wonderfully affectionate and giving family. They all have fantastic laughs and love to joke around-and are close with each other and the Gospel. and I landed one of her grandsons. (the best one I think:)

Maybe there is hope for me and my posterity yet?

Our loving mother, grandmother, sister, and friend Enid Larue Fail returned to be with her beloved Vaughn and her Father in heaven on Oct. 2, 2008 in Price, Utah.
She was born on Sept. 23, 1925 in Elmo, Utah to Thomas Lamar and Nettie Jane (Oveson) Davis. She married Fredrick Vaughn Fail on May 2, 1946. Marriage solemnized in the Manti LDS Temple on June 17, 1967.
Enid was raised on South Flat near Cleveland, Utah. She also lived in Elmo, Kenilworth, Orangeville, and Price. She was a wonderful mother and grandmother. You could always find her in the kitchen cooking for her family and she spent many hours working side by side with Vaughn on their farm in Elmo and in Joe's Valley.
Enid was a hard worker who lived a life of service to those around her. There was no hardship or sacrifice that she wouldn't make for her loved ones. One of the highlights of Vaughn and Enid's life was serving as temple workers at the Manti Temple. She also enjoyed many other church callings including service as a stake missionary. During the past few years, she has shown great courage as she faced the many challenges in her life. She has left behind a legacy of love. She will be deeply missed by all of those who knew her.
She was preceded in death by her husband and parents.
She is survived by her children Deanna (Larry) Gonzales, Logan, Utah, Vila (Bill) Jewkes, Price, Utah, Brad (Kalynn) Fail, Green River, Utah, Katie (Kenny) Woodruff, Sevierville, Tenn., two sisters, Margie White, Cleveland, Utah, and Leora Hansen, Elmo, Utah, grandchildren Ian (Jenny) Humes, Jeremy (Nicole) Humes, Heidi (Ryan) Hartley, Zac (Lindsay) Humes, Jimmy (Heidi) Jewkes, Danny (Hollie) Jewkes, Becca (Dan) Crane, Joe (Amy) Fail, Kaleb Fail, Greg Woodruff, Krissa (Scott) Reid, Tyler Woodruff, Jessie Woodruff, and 18 great-grandchildren.
Funeral services were held Monday, Oct. 6, 2008 at 11 a.m. at the Elmo Ward Chapel in Elmo, Utah. Friends and family called Oct. 5, 2008 from 6-8 p.m. at Fausett Mortuary in Price, Utah and one hour prior to the service at the church. Interment was in the Orangeville City Cemetery. Services were in the care of Fausett Mortuary.

SHORT AND SWEET

2008-10-03T15:27:00.004-06:00

IN A WORD

Super great idea-

Tag to all you readers out there but be sure to give only one word answers!

1. Where is your Cell Phone?- pocket

2.Where is your significant other?- Zions

3. Your hair?- neglected

4. Your Mother?- thrifty

5. Your Father?- tender

6. Your favorite thing?- silence

7. Your dream last night?-unsettling

8.Your dream/goal?- Celestial

9. The room you're in?- cozy

10. Your Hobby?- forgotten

11. Your Fear?-solitude

12.Where do you want to be in 6 years?- Here

13. Where were you last night?- Salon

14. What you're not?-thin

15. One of your wish list items?- Baby

16. Where you grow up?- Dixie

17. The last thing you did?-elliptical

18. What you're wearing?- warm-ups

19. You're TV?-mounted

20. Your Pet?-NEVER!

21. Your Computer?-laptop

22. What do you think of Tags like this?-clever

23. Your Mood?-hopeful

24. Missing Someone?-Jodi

25. Where would you rather be?- shower

26. Something you're not wearing right now?-make-up

27. Favorite Store?- Gymboree

28. Your Summer?- lost

29. Love Someone?- tons!

30. Favorite Color?- Cobalt

31. The last time you laughed?- constantly

32. Who will participate?-many?

Hope my answers make sense- Have Fun!

HEAD CASE

2008-09-30T20:19:00.006-06:00

SICK AND TIRED

We have all been enduring our first miserable head cold of the season as a family (and not very well I might add.) The older boys have had drippy noses and loud chesty coughs, I've got a miserable sore throat and congestion and Dan's illness has now turned into the full on Flu. BLECH.

Poor Thaddy though- I thought he was doing quite well and that he was getting over his little sniffles- (I've kept him quarantined in his own room so he wouldn't get as ill) but when I went in to check on him the other night, he was burning up with a *103 temperature!!! Well Done Hollie. So I rushed him to the Doctors office early the next morning and the sweet little man has a double ear infection. I am officially the worst mother ever. Poor Baby- He never fusses or cries or lets on if he's uncomfortable so I had no flipping idea that he was in such pain. Thank goodness for the high temperature or I probably would've neglected his ears to the point of permanent damage. He must have a pretty high pain threshold (unlike his whiny father)- and I'm sure that comes from my gene pool...

Thank goodness for antibiotics, ear drops, Nyquil and Vick's VapoRub. What did people do before drugs and pain meds? I'd have gone crazy!! The boys now know to lay down on their pillows before I put them down for naps or bedtime so I can suck out their noses, rub them down with Vicks, give them each a squirt of Afrin and dope them up on decongestant and Tylenol. It's a whole efficient routine we've got down now. The whole house smells like Menthol and there are trails of tissues everywhere, the humidifiers are on full blast in each room and Tuck now asks me for more medicine when he starts feeling crummy. I'm soo sick of doing laundry and bleaching everything in sight- I swear we all just keep passing it back and forth no matter how clean I try to keep everything. (Although I do have to admit that I love when the babes are sick cuz they're extra snuggly and just let me love on them all day.) Dan doesn't handle sickness very well, so I am the Director of Disease Control and the boys know to come to me with any problems or for sympathy and loves. Dan just hides in the bedroom with earplugs and whines more than the 3 boys combined! And who do I get to whine to? No one is giving me sympathy or loves- Can I be done already?

You're It!

2008-09-24T20:56:00.003-06:00

I've Been Tagged!

Consider yourself tagged as well if you're reading this...

Two names you go by:

1. Holl-Doll

2. Mama

Two things you are wearing right now:

1. AE ratty pink T-Shirt

2. blue Old Navy fleece sweatpants- I freaking love them and have them in every color!

Two things you ate today:

1. Brown Sugar and Cinnamon Pop-Tarts- my most recent craving...

2. Cafe Rio Pork Salad- Dan cooked

Two things you did last night:

1.Watched "Greek" on ABC Family- Yes! I'm a lame 13 year old girl- I know- but I'm totally hooked!

2. Finished Thad's baby cross-stitch (finally)

Two things you want very badly at this moment:

1. New bedding/comforter/pillows/coverlet/dust ruffle to go with my new bedroom furniture

2. My nails re-done- They're all covered in paint and grime

The last two people you talked to:

1. Todd

2. Danny

Two things you are doing tomorrow:

1. Home Depot trip- paint and supplies to redo the Master Bath this weekend

2. Working all night at the Salon- Colors and Cuts

Two longest car rides:

1. Utah to Arizona with screaming kids for Thanksgiving 2006- getting stuck for like 3 hours at Hoover Dam. Grrr

2. Utah to South Dakota with a 6-week old nursing Tucker -2005

Mount Rushmore was SOO not worth it.

Two favorite beverages:

1. Life Water- The pink one

2.G2-Gatorade- The purple one

Tatey Brother

2008-09-24T12:32:00.004-06:00

CHEESE!

I absolutely love our photographer here in Cedar. Story Book Portraits constantly has new cute ideas and they are all so patient with my boys (and me dragging the kids in like 3 times every month). Here are a few of Tate's 2 year old pics. They captured his personality perfectly. He's always such a pill when we are trying to snap his photo- but he is really quite photogenic and after all the fits and fights, we usually end up with some cute shots...

He is obsessed with Trains and Tires lately and these collages are perfect to remember this phase in his childhood.

He's either destined to be a Train Engineer or to work at Jiffy Lube...

The Odd Couple

2008-09-23T23:58:00.005-06:00

Quirks and Oddities -TAG

Now before I spew hot molten crazy all over you our friends and family- please remember that you like me and Dan despite our quirks...

-Hollie-

1- I have to sort out all my candy (M&M's, skittles, starbursts) by color and then have an equal amount on both sides of my mouth. I can't have one blue skittle and two yellow on the other side of my mouth- DRIVES ME CRAZY! If there is an uneven amount either in color or number, I give the rest away or bite it in half so that I am "fair" to both sides of my mouth.

2- Everything in my house in sorted by size, shape and type. For example- my closet is sorted and clothes hung by type and size- camisoles, tanks, layers, t-shirts, short sleeves, 3/4 sleeve, button downs, long sleeves, turtlenecks, sweaters, sweatshirts, wraps and cardigans and so on. I also sort by color starting with all white, cream, yellow, tan, orange, pink, red and continuing the rainbow on. Every drawer and cupboard follows this system- including the kitchen and food products. I can't have anyone help with the laundry- obviously.

3-I DO NOT function without a strict schedule. I have a set time and order for EVERYTHING we do every day. Breakfast,Playtime, Lunch, Nap, any activities and Dinner are all the same every day without fail. Vacations and day trips are really hard for me- I don't fly by the seat of my pants and struggle when things are not in my total control. It sends me into a spiral of panic and irritability. (This quirk obviously is really hard with the addition of children and a hopelessly erratic husband.)

4-I have to sleep completely straight in my bed- none of this crazy sideways stuff. I have to have my sheets and blankets perfectly straight and my head in the middle of my pillow. My arms and legs have to be perfectly straight as well and I get really ornery if Dan invades my nice straight space.

5- I like everything to be symmetrical- obviously an Interior Designers nightmare. I have to have my bed in the middle of my room and my dressers and furniture centered exactly in each room- Things drive me crazy if I can see that they aren't centered -I even sit on the same couch cushion every night centered perfectly in front of the T.V. and coffee table. I don't worry about photo collages but furniture, rugs and hwere I am situated has to be centered.

6- I hate not seeing the lines in the floor from the vacuum. I probably go over the carpet like 4 times a day making sure that no one thinks I don't clean my floors. I really need a new vacuum come to think of it...

7-I can't NOT finish a movie. Even if it's one I've seen a million times- It has to be finished in my head before I can turn off the T.V. This makes for very late evenings...

8- I organize my cleaning products by how often they are used, effectiveness and smell and by each room they are used in. There is a specific basket for each room, mess and project.

9-My kids and I have to always match when we go out- If I'm wearing a red blouse and jeans- Then so will they. Church has proven to be very troublesome- I have to buy a new dress every time I find a cute outfit for the boys. Dan HATES this one.

10-I pick up the mood of any show I'm watching- If the main character is angry or upset- Then so shall I be. Dramas and Tragedies are terrible and I always take out the mood on Dan. Following a sitcom or series is really hard on Dan cuz if one episode ends badly- I'm guaranteed to be in a bad mood til the next episode airs and issues are resolved.

-DAN-

1- Danny has to shower at least 4 times a day. He cannot stand to feel dirty or smell at all. He gets out of bed and showers, goes to work, comes home for lunch and showers, comes home at night, showers and then showers again before bed. This makes for TONS of laundry and multiple outfit changes, but at least he always smells nice...

2- Dan cannot fall asleep without rubbing his feet together over and over. It is so flipping annoying.

3- Dan cannot and will not go to pot luck dinners or ward dinners without having eaten first. He is convinced that no one keeps their house and kitchen clean and won't eat anyone else's food. EVER.

4- He goes on MAJOR food jags. He will pick a snack or food and eat it for every meal straight for like 3 weeks and then never ever touch it again. Right now it's Oreo Cookies- Entire packages. We've already gone through Goldfish, Fruit Roll-ups, Gushers, Ritz crackers, licorice and the entire collection of Ben and Jerry's ice cream.

5- He can't fall asleep without the T.V. on- no sound or particular channel, just the flickering screen.

6- Cannot stand the thought or sight of spit-up. Totally fine with vomit and poop- just not baby spit-up.

7- If we try a restaurant and he has a bad experience or the food was sub-par, we will NEVER go back. I have a one shot chance of any food establishment and then I'm out of luck.

8- He is a hopeless closet chick flick lover and when I come in late at night from work, I will often see him snuggled on the couch watching "Notting Hill", "Return to Me" or the likes.

9- No matter how warm it is or what time of year- Dan loves his hoodies, sweatpants and wool socks and has to wear them to bed every night. He is like my own personal space heater.

10- Cannot make it through a meal without like 12 cokes. He eats very little but downs more liquid than the rest of the family put together.

We are so ODD! I thought this was a cute tag- and I was hard pressed to narrow us down to 10 quirks each. They say your idiosyncrasies get worse with age- If that's true, then Heaven help us!

Melon Days

2008-09-22T21:57:00.009-06:00

WATERMELON, BASEBALL AND TRACTORS

We packed up the boys and the Jeep for a fun filled weekend in Green River, Utah. Where is Green River you ask? Just point your car east and keep heading into the sunset .

Every year, Dan's side of the family (The Fails) get together for food, fun and baseball tournaments. Eastern Utah is known for cranking out some really good ball players and Dan likes to pretend he is one of them. Green River is also known for excellent watermelon- thus the name "Melon Days". There is a cute little parade and fair and LOTS of baseball to watch and melon to eat.

The boys had a great time watching the parade floats (tractors and 4 wheelers with streamers) and gathering up candy that people threw from their cars. It was fun to hang out with all the Fail cousins and catch up with all the family stories and news. The fair had some cute booths and activities for the boys to enjoy and then it was off to the ball fields.

Go "Wood Butchers"!!

The Fail team did pretty well this year- with some awesome injuries to show for it. Dan pulled a ham string and ripped up his knee sliding into 3rd and is now nursing his injuries on our couch at home. He can barely walk to the fridge and back... The baseball tournaments go all day and all night and depending on how well your team plays- You get put in higher brackets and literally exhaust yourself playing back to back games sometimes as late as 4 in the morning! The Fail boys get really into it and I'm pretty sure Dan wants to pass on this passion onto our boys. It was actually the first time we've packed up all the babes for this family tradition and I'm glad we made the trek eastward. We don't see our Jewkes and Fail relatives as often as Dan would like and it was great to be surrounded with people who all look and laugh just like my Danny.

It was a fun weekend and an excellent way to end the Summer.

Eating My Words

2008-09-17T16:16:00.003-06:00

Top 15 Things I never thought I'd say (or have to say) as a Mother

* We don't play in the garbage can.

* Tate- Don't sit on the baby's head.

* Get the dead cricket out of your mouth.

* We don't bite the Nursery leader.

* Toilets are not for washing our hands in.

* We keep our pants on when we are at Church.

* We don't scream during prayer-time.

* Books are not for eating.

* No- You cannot take the remote control to bed with you.

* We don't throw up our food when we don't like it- just spit it out please.

* Play-Doh is for outside or in your high chair- not for grinding into the carpet.

* Juice boxes are not for squeezing at each other, they are for drinking.

* No Tuck- Plastic bags are not scary.

* Cars drive on the ground, not in Mommas hair.

* Crayons are not for coloring on the sofa- They are only for coloring books.

When did I become this woman??

Whoopidee Doo- Tatey is 2

2008-09-13T00:55:00.008-06:00

POTATO BUG

Tate Daniel Jewkes

September 13, 2006

2 years ago today, Tate Daniel came into the world red and screaming and 9 pounds of stubborn baby boy joy. I can't believe that he is 24 months already. Time has flown for our middle child and he is well adjusted and on his way to being the best of the "Terrible Twos". We got off to a rocky start- Tate and me, but he has quickly become someone I can't live without. He came so fast and is wired so much differently than Tuck that I really struggled with after he was born and we didn't get the bonding time we needed. It took me a while to figure this independent little soul out! I had a really hard time with Postpartum Depression also, so the two of us really didn't get the snuggling and cuddling and bonding down until we were about a year into our relationship. He is so much like me that we really do butt heads a lot- he has a bubble around him, hates to be touched and hugged unless he initiates it and wants to do things his own way on his own time frame but he is so much fun to play with and tease and kiss on. He is sweet and affectionate in his own way and I love my Tate the Great. In honor of the 27 minutes that he took to get here-( without warning or Epidural)- I am going to name 27 things that I love about my 2nd born.

1- He squeals with joy every time I open the door to get him out of bed and says "HI!" He loves to jump up and down inside his "tent" and show me his tricks.

2- He is in love with Thad and can't stand to hear him cry. He comes to tell me "baby cwying" every time now and tries to make him feel better by sharing his cars or blankets.

3- He loves anything with tires and can't stop himself from touching every filthy tire/car in the parking lot. He always has black hands and filthy clothes.

4-He loves to peel and eat bananas but squeezes them so hard that they turn into mush usually before he can get them into his mouth.

5-He loves his Daddy more than anything- but calls him Mama. Anyone who is the least bit maternal gets the "mama" treatment.

6-He adores Tucker and wants to do absolutely EVERYTHING that he does. He sobs every time Tuck gets on the bus and leaves him for preschool.

7-He loves "Cars" the movie and could watch it repeatedly- I now have every line memorized. He does as well but still gets excited at the dramatic parts and asks "whas dat"?
8-He loves to go outside and look at the stars and sing "Twinkle, Twinkle" with hand actions- So flipping cute.

9-He has finally figured out to give smoochey kisses and demands them from everyone.
10-He loves to smile for the camera and gives the best cheeser smiles.

11- He loves to dance with mama and "shake his booty"- which consists of him bending over and wiggling. Hilarious.

12- He is fascinated with belly-buttons and every time there is a diaper change or bath, he pokes every ones belly button and screams "DING-DONG!"

13-He is obsessed with baby dolls lately and is getting his very own to love on for his Birthday (despite all his fathers protests)

14- He HATES getting his teeth brushed and the second I get the brush in his mouth, he bites down on it so hard that I can't get it back out. All his teeth are going to fall out...

15- Anytime he doesn't want to do something, he shouts "NO WAY" and runs the other direction.

16- He doesn't really walk- Tate prances. He bounces around on the balls of his toes everywhere he goes and swings his arms like a miniature gorilla. So cute!

17- He is terrified of the shower and cries every time I get in- convinced that I've left him- crying " Mama-come back!"

18- He loves to help brush my hair and says "pretty"

19-He is a very good eater and never fights me on tasting new things. So funny though- he hates if his cookie or cracker is broken or cracked and won't eat it. He says "bwoken" and demands a new whole snack with no broken edges.

20- He has never taken a Binky, but LOVES his bottles of milk in the morning. He still does the sign for his "milks" and lays down on his pillow and watches Sesame Street. It's his morning ritual and he hates if it is disrupted.

21- He is a whiz at puzzles and lacing cards- and figures them out all on his own- (usually while I'm trying to get Tucker to figure them out)

22- Now when he needs attention or extra loves, he comes up to me and says "I sad" and climbs into my lap for a snuggle. I love that he cuddles with me now.

23- He is an excellent sleeper- 8 to 9 every day without fail and he naps in the afternoon as well. He never fights sleeping either- always happy to trot off to his crib. He waits at the door for me and then holds his hands up for me to help him into bed. He has his lovey and his taggie blanket and snuggles right in for sleep.

24- He always has some sort of stick or hammer or wand in his hand- without fail. He doesn't use them for anything, but he insists on having one glued in his fist.

25- Tate is the most fun child to tickle and tease. He squeals and giggles and laughs on cue.

26- I think he is a beautiful little man and has the prettiest blue eyes of all my boys. He is going to be a heart breaker.

27- Tate LOVES puppies. He pants like them and howls and barks anytime he sees one. He isn't the least bit afraid of them and attacks any puppy we happen to come across. It's so funny to watch him chase the poor dogs and poke them in the ears and eyes.

Tate is curious and precocious and can figure out anything given enough time- He fights me on everything he can and has his own mind but he is going to go places!

We love you Tatey Brother and can't imagine our family without you. You are a sweet, fun-loving, curious little man and we can't wait to see what you will become.

REPENTING

2008-09-07T21:34:00.006-06:00

So Very Penitent

So- I feel a little bad about my hateful rant last night. I love my hubby and he is a marvelous companion and daddy. The boys love him and they have so much fun watching sports and "bonding" with him. They all love cheering and throwing pillows at the T.V. with Dan. If sports is the way to get closer to your kids then so be it. It's not like I don't have my own obnoxious obsessions. Speaking of which- I totally ordered a new bedroom set to get back at him. EEK!! I haven't told him yet and it's all getting delivered on Saturday. Hopefully there is a REALLY good game on so we can breeze through the whole "I ordered new furniture without your knowledge" thing. I think I have a little bit to repent of- Maybe? But it's really pretty and we totally needed one- so I'm not that awful of a wife am I? Yup- I am.

Now I need to repaint the bedroom and buy all new decorations to match- This should keep me busy right up through the end of the Football season. Fair Trade? At least I won't be whining at Dan to turn off the T.V....

DOWN WITH SPORTS

2008-09-06T22:24:00.008-06:00

I have officially become a single mother for the duration of the fall sports season. My husband abandons me and his children for the love of a pigskin ball and a team men he has never met.

I HATE FOOTBALL.

I'd like to pretend I'm one of those sweet wives that that brings her hubby snacks and asks about the stats of the game- or one who gets into the game with him and wears the colors of his favorite team, but really I'm just huffing around the house, cursing him under my breath for his useless state and being angry at him for monopolizing the T.V. I can think of nothing redeemable about this sport. It's not like we know any of these people & we're not making any money off of these games so why is it soo important to watch each and every dad-blamed game? I mean, if Dan was at least betting on these games and making me some money- I wouldn't complain so much!

It doesn't matter if it's a team he loves or not, if there is a ball on the screen, He WILL be watching it. Dan undergoes some serious physical and personality changes while Football is on. He is suddenly unable to hear anything except the commentators on T.V.- even if the children are screaming or I'm asking him to take out the trash (for the 15th time), he is unable to get himself off the couch for a drink, push the down button for the volume on the remote control or eat anything at the kitchen table. He suddenly is able to weave a tapestry of naughty words at any bad call or fumble (I call this ESPN Touretts), able to remain in the same spot on the couch for hours at a time and get CRAZY irritated if any of us try to change the channel. And then- to top it off, he has to listen to the re-cap of each game and have other men explain to him what he has just watched. It drives me crazy!!

And what really kills me is that it's only going to get worse- I have 3 boys. Odds are, I'm going to have at least one who is a football junkie. Dan already has them watching and cheering with him every time and every time I ask him to switch it to PBS or something for the kids-he has them trained to say "I Want Football!" If by some twist of fate they don't choose Football- then it will be some other sport with a stupid ball and a lot of time wasting. I must have done something terrible in another life to be cursed with all the sports I'm going to have to pretend to have interest in. I'm afraid a major attitude adjustment is in the works because there are so many bleachers and scoreboards in my future. Would it be considered uncool to cut the T.V. cord or cancel the Dish Service? Hmmm

7 Year Itch?

2008-09-01T01:30:00.007-06:00

The Best Labor Day Weekend Ever

Danny proposed to me 7 years ago today. I can't believe that its been that long since we agreed to be stuck with each other for all eternity!

Dan and I met at CEU (College of Eastern Utah) in Price while I was finishing up my Associates Degree and going full time to Beauty School. I was always too scared to go to a bigger college and didn't really have huge education aspirations at the time, so a small town and a 2 year degree combined with a trade seemed just right for me. It was January 2001, and I was still in mourning for my high school boyfriend/missionary who had just left on his mission. Dan actually got home from his mission the same day that I sent my missionary out- so that worked out quite nicely huh? We were set up by his brother and the rest is history. Dan always says he knew we were going to get married from our first date. I took a bit longer to figure things out, send back a promise ring and "Dear John" a poor boy- but I came around eventually... The summer that I moved home was really hard on both of us and I couldn't wait to move back to Price (crazy, I know) and be with Dan all the time again. We were pretty much inseparable by now and I knew it was just a matter of time before we made things official. We had actually gone ring shopping and all that fun stuff before I had moved home for the summer and I had picked out the exact ring that I wanted. Well- while I was away, Dan decided that he didn't like it enough and went ahead and designed a COMPLETELY different ring than what we (I) had decided on and I was a little bit bitter and worried that he picked out something awful and tacky for me. After I had moved back into the dorms and school had started back up and everything, Dan and I decided to visit the fam over the Labor Day weekend in SLC. I knew that the proposal was coming and wanted my ring so I could show everyone but Dan was in a mood for teasing and told me that the ring was still being worked on and that I'd have to announce the engagement without a ring. Being a bratty 20 year old, I pouted and wouldn't talk to Dan as we packed up the truck and got ready to leave town.
Poor Dan- setting precedent for the rest of our marriage, gave in and pulled off the side of the road, had me reach in his pocket and knelt down in front of the Tucker dorms and gave in to my first (of many) temper tantrums. Yes- He proposed to me on the side of the road with cars honking at us to move out of the way and me still pouting. Now most would consider this a little unromantic- but it is totally Danny and fits us perfectly. (I was still worried that the ring would be awful, so without opening the box, I said yes, kissed my fiance and scurried back in the truck before we incited any more road rage.)

Dan actually did a fantastic job on my ring and I can't picture anything more fitting or beautiful than what he designed and gave me. He knew me better than I even knew myself and found the perfect unique design for me. I love my Dan and I'm so happy that he decided to put up with my sour mood swings forever. :)
After getting to SLC- we announced the engagement and celebrated. When we went over to the Spencer's to share the big news, my Aunt Brittney brought over her wedding dress just for me to try on and it was picture perfect. What a special thing to share with family. I'm so grateful that she let me borrow her beautiful gown (and that I was thin enough to fit into it)! So all in one weekend, I got my man, my ring and my wedding dress.

Pics of me and Jodi modeling my dress Labor Day weekend 2001. I actually have a waistline and a jawline to boot!

Here we are 7 years later and I'd still choose Dan over anyone else. I love this man and the wonderful little life we've made together. I did demand that he move me away from Price as soon as we were through with school- but that was my last big tantrum (hee hee) and it's been wedded bliss ever since!

p.s. Tucker is named after the dorm that we got engaged in front of- Just a little bit of trivia for you all!

Rip Roarin Good Time

2008-08-29T01:13:00.004-06:00

Horses, Roller Coasters and Cotton Candy

We went out to the Parowan County Fair and Rodeo tonight and had a really good time. Unfortunately, I forgot my Camera and had to rely on my good friend Susie to email a few pics for me to post. We got there just in time to watch the last half of the "kiddie" portion of the Rodeo and watch little ones wrestle goats and stuff. It was really cute- but some of the kids were so tiny, it made me a little nervous to see them riding such huge horses! The boys loved looking at the horses, cows and bulls and then we made our way over to the little traveling Carnival that had set up in the parking lot. The boys had a blast riding the carousel, and tiny roller coaster and then Tuck convinced me to take him on the Ferris Wheel. I thought he'd be too nervous, but he loved it and squealed every time we went around. I had to literally drag him away- he wanted to go on every ride there. Tatey and Thad were asleep on their feet before the night was out and we kept the boys out WAAY past their bedtime.

Not my most attractive pose- but the boys were having such a good time they were wiggling and sliding around on the horses. I was so nervous that they were going to fall off that I braced myself against the two horses and held on to them for dear life.

It was a nice evening spent with friends and giving the boys a new experience. Thanks to Tyler and Susie Knudsen for inviting us out- It would have been just another quiet Thursday night if left to our own devices...

BITTERSWEET

2008-08-27T14:08:00.013-06:00

Growing Pains

Tucker started Preschool yesterday and I'm devastated. I can't believe he is already going to school without me. Yes- I know it's only preschool for 3 hours every other day- but I'm still so sad about it! He was so excited though. He couldn't hardly wait to get out of bed and get "dwessed". He helped pick out his outfit and shoes for the day and wouldn't take off his new backpack for anything. It was really fun trying to clip him into his high chair and car-seat with his huge pack on. He was so antsy he hardly ate anything for breakfast and then stood right next to the back door until I was ready to take him. From now on, He'll have a school bus pick him up and drop him off- but I couldn't' t bear the thought of sending him to his first day of school alone- so I drove.

Three Peaks Preschool

He has a really cute teacher "Mrs. Carowyn" who is affectionate and patient and sweet as can be- so I don't feel too worried about that, and then he has a physical therapist, speech therapist and occupational therapist to help him get over his hang-ups and help him catch up with other kids his age. He's been working with these 3 therapists for the last year and a half- so there were some familiar faces for both of us. I'm really excited to see the progress he will make- I'm sure he'll try harder and learn a lot without Mama there to coddle and let him get away with not doing his exercises. It was hard to leave him there, but he didn't even notice me sneak out the back door. I helped him hang up his backpack and wash his hands and then he was gone. There were too many cool toys and kids to play with! I stood and watched for a while through the "parents window" to make sure he'd be okay and then took my little broken hearted self back home. I was nervous to let him ride home on a big scary bus by himself, but they have an adorable "preschool size" bus for these little ones equipped with car seats and bus aides to make sure they're all strapped in and safe.

Mothers are funny creatures. We stress and fret over every milestone and accomplishment, worry that they're not learning and developing like they should and then sob when they figure out they're OK without us. I have to admit I have loved having a tiny little boy. He is so little and sweet- It's been fun to stretch out the "Baby Years" a little longer with him. He is still barely 20 pounds as a 3 year old so it's like snuggling and feeding a baby and he's such a Mama's Boy. He never does naughty things like Tate does ( constantly) and doesn't explore or push boundaries without me. I've been spoiled. Tate never really needed me and that was hard for me to get used to after Tuck. He is such a strong, independent little man that he hates to snuggle or have me help him with anything. Tuck is happy to just sit next to me and let me fawn all over him. (which I do) It will be good for both of us to separate a little and have other people work with him. He needs to catch up with the kids around him and hit some milestones. I certainly don't want to cripple him or encourage dependence but I need outside forces to help me. If it were up to me, we'd stay home and snuggle in our jammies all day and I'd never send him anywhere. Preschool will be a good milestone for both of us.

Tatey missed Tuck the whole time he was gone and kept walking around the house saying "Are You?" (Where are you? in Tate-eese)When Tucker got dropped off, we both ran outside to greet the bus and Tate tried to climb in for a ride. He'll have NO problem with school and leaving Mama. Tucker started to cry as soon as he got off the bus and as we began to walk back inside for lunch and I asked him what was wrong. "I want go to Preschool again- Make the bus come back", he says.

Looks like my little Tucker-Bird is ready to leave the nest. (sniff and sob)

P.S.
I do have to admit that I did call the school twice to see where the bus was EXACTLY because I was getting nervous he wasn't home yet (it had been like 10 minutes since school got out and I was convinced he'd been left or kidnapped) and then I called his teacher to find out how he did and what I need to do to help him. Yes- I know. I'm a Helicopter Mother- hovering over and smothering everything in sight. I can't help it!!

I can't believe my baby is so big. These are his 3 year old pictures and I have to share- :)

Only in Utah

2008-08-22T01:11:00.003-06:00

THE GREATEST OF ALL GREATS

So my Mother is the oldest of 10 children- The youngest of my Uncles (#10) being my exact age. This has made for some interesting conversations and even more interesting life situations. Not every kid has Uncles and Aunts that go to school with you and hang out with your same friends. I mean- we shared clothes, took classes and even graduated from High School together! To put it in perspective, my Mom and Grandma were pregnant at the same time. I was teething along with my Uncle and playing Barbies with my Aunties. Wrap your mind around that one! Explaining to all my friends in High School that Trent was yes- my actual Uncle- not a cousin or brother- was always a kick and having Aunts just a year or two older than me made for some great make-shift "Older Sisters." Now that we have children- It's hilarious and a bit perplexing to try and figure out how we all fit together. Here are some pics with Thad, Olivia, and Elle with Grandma and Grandpa Spencer. Thad is the 3rd Great-Grandchild and Elle and Olivia are Grandchildren. These 3 beautiful babies were all born within a week of each other. How fun it was to go through pregnancy and enter the Baby Phase with my Aunts. Me having children ended up making my Aunts and Uncles ( who are barely older than me) "Greats" before half of them hit 35. My children are the same age as my cousins. CRAZY!! These are priceless pics of a funny situation. I only wish we were closer so my boys could play with their 2nd cousins and get to better know their "Greats".

This is such a fun picture of Thad Owen with Great Grandpa Gary Owen Spencer- Thaddy's namesake- I love my Grandpa and can't think of a better man for my sweet son to emulate. He doesn't look like the Spencer side (at all) but maybe personality will persevere?

On Top of the World

2008-08-15T22:03:00.011-06:00

HIP HIP OURAY!!

Love the Wildflowers in Colorado- So Beautiful! I like to pretend I'm a professional Photographer and I took a million pics of these flowers. Be prepared for a million pictures- My job on this vacation was to Document our adventures for all those who couldn't come (Brad and Eric- Jim and Heidi and kids).

After 8 years of telling the Fam how great our annual trip to Ouray Colorado is- We finally got The Burtons to come with us. Dan's family has been coming here since before Dan was born for Family Reunions and such and they've got me hooked- and now I'm pretty sure my family will be accompanying us for years to come. Growing up in Utah- We have plenty of mountains and scenery to take in- but nothing compares to the San Juans and the scenery here in Colorado. It's so much different and more lush and green. If we could move anywhere- It would be here. I love the scenery, the shopping and the weather- so unpredictable and changeable. I never grew up 4 Wheeling or anything like that- but it is Dan's one true passion- so I adopted it as soon as we started dating. Pretty sure we'll pass the passion onto the boys as well. They loved driving over the passes and Tucker would always ask to go over more "bumps". Tate got scared on a few of the trails and kept saying "I scare! I scare!". So fun.
We spent 4 full days 4-Wheeling and Jeeping, Hiking and Sight-Seeing in Ouray, Telluride, Durango, Purgatory and Silverton Colorado. Beautiful Vistas, Awesome Heights, Jeep Rides through the Clouds, Hikes up to 13,000 feet- Mine Exploration and Photo Ops.

This is Red Mountain Pass- The color of the mountains here is mainly from Mine Tailings. The San Juan Mountains are covered with mines and open shafts- mainly dug for silver and gold. Silverton and Ouray are small little Mining Towns who have resorted to Tourism to stay afloat. Telluride is beautiful as well but more commercial and busy- Ouray is still quiet and relatively undiscovered. We love camping and then shopping downtown in the cute little shops.

Hurricane pass is one of the highest passes we go on- Freezing cold and snowing on the top- Even in August. We were surrounded by mist and fog this year- so we didn't really get the full effect of the heights and sheer cliffs.

We stopped by the Purgatory Ski Resort and went down the "Alpine Slides" with the boys- They loved it and screamed when we had to get off. Tucker wouldn't talk to me after I made him get off the slide and when I asked him why he said "I'm Angry Mama- I want to slide again." At least he's labeling his emotions correctly! Purgatory is one of the highest ski resorts in the Country- Very pretty but after hiking around we certainly felt the elevation! It was really nice to ride the chair lift and enjoy the scenery from up above- but I was nervous about dropping the kids off the lift the whole time and couldn't quite relax...

The boys had a good time and it was nice to get them out of the Jeep for a little while. The only downside of the trip is A LOT of time is spent in the car- and little kids just don't understand why they have to be strapped in all day.

Here is one of my favorite stops in Telluride- If you look closely, you can see that the huge Waterfall goes directly under a big gorgeous house used for Weddings and Receptions. So pretty! I make Danny stop here every year for pictures.

Dan had a blast breaking in our new Jeep Commander. It did amazingly well on the passes- and even though it doesn't look like much in the pictures- This pass is a very steep grade. Dan was a good sport and let Jodi and Todd even drive on some of the easier parts. No one dinged up the car too awfully bad and I think they enjoyed having Dan show them the Ropes. It was fun to listen to him teach the kids how to navigate these passes and I'm excited for the day when he can teach our own boys how to drive.

So fun to share this vacation with my family and Dan's parents. They were wonderful sports and drove Mom and Dad around in their Truck. Dad said that he had nightmares of falling off the cliffs- There are some pretty spectacular heights! It's so hard to fit all the sights into one vacation- so I'm pretty sure that we'll drag the family back next year for more sightseeing and nightmarish heights!

LOOKALIKE TAG

2008-08-13T11:06:00.007-06:00

OFFSPRING

This is a darling idea- I'm tagging everyone out there who has kids to see which side of the family they take after- Post pictures of you and your significant other along with your kids at the same ages and lets compare and contrast!

Can you guess which child is which in these Blessing Day pics? Even I have a hard time....

Not Really Even A Contest...

I thought this was a cute tag- but really kind of pointless in my case- My children all look exactly like their Father- but here's some cute pics anyways. Let me know what you think and who looks like who!

Daniel Vaughn, Tucker Vaughn and Hollie Diane at 3 years old.

Daniel Vaughn, Tate Daniel and Hollie Diane and 2 years old.

Daniel Vaughn, Thad Owen,and Hollie Diane at 6 months old.

So Blessed

2008-08-03T22:17:00.008-06:00

Splish-Splash- I was takin' a Bath!

I love Bath-Time- It's a bit chaotic and a lot of sopping wet, but so fun to watch all 3 splashing and playing together. The boys love to "help" wash Thaddy lately and put bubbles all over his face. Dan and I have a great assembly line working for us. It's taken us until boy #3 to perfect it but it's quite an effective system... I bathe and towel them off, he powders and diapers, (yes- all 3 are still in diapers) I lotion and check for scrapes or cuts that need "Curious George Band-Aids", he puts on the onesies and then I put them in clean PJ's. He reads them stories and then I kiss them and put them to bed. Bath-Time is my favorite time of day. I get to kiss and snuggle chubby knees and tummies and it doesn't matter how dirty they get through the day because once they are scrubbed clean and lotioned up, they all have that sweet baby smell.

I don't know if I've mentioned this before, but I am madly in love with my 3 little boys. They are the loves of my life and the reason I get up in the morning (literally). I am grateful every day that these perfect little souls were sent to me. It doesn't matter what mistakes I've made in the past or how rotten of a person that I was- I have the perfect chance to help mold and create men better than me or Danny that will carry on our name and our best traits into the future. I'm terrified that I'm going to screw these angels up, but I'm doing my best to be the kind of Mom that they need and I'm learning so much every day! When I had my first child, Tucker, I thought I couldn't possibly love anyone more than him . He was the most perfect angelic little man I had ever seen and I felt more complete with him than I ever had without. Tuck is so sweet and tender and my little Snuggle-Bug. I pored over every baby book and magazine and was determined to be the best Mama there ever was. When we found out we were expecting Tate, I began to wonder how I would feel about another baby to love- I mean Tuck was only 6 months old at the time and I was still adjusting to one baby! I worried if I would be able to take care of and love more than one as much as I should or could... Would I be able to balance the two- would Tate be as easy to love? Then along came our Tato and my heart grew to hold more love then I ever thought possible- Not that I loved my 1st any less but that I was suddenly able to balance and give enough love to #2. Tate is infuriating and stubborn but is the most fun to play with and teach new things to- He is bright and quick with a laugh and smile.

And now that we have 3- I am just bursting at the seams with love. It took about 5 months after Tate was born to feel like we were all a family but with Thad- he fit right in and we grew to our family of 5 with no growing pains at all. Thad is mellow and easy-going and never fusses unless he needs something. Like I said- I am madly in love with my boys! I never really liked kids and hated baby-sitting as a teenager and honestly felt like I never wanted to have a big family of my own, but now that I've got my 3, I think I could go for 12 more. I love being a Mommy and have finally come into my own now that I have others to think about besides myself. Being a Mommy has helped me become a better version of my old self and hopefully a more patient and kind friend and wife. I am so grateful for my children and to Danny for giving me these sweet little men.

Here are some sweet shots of my boys getting ready for bed. We love our Uncle Todd and we're so glad he's up here in Cedar City going to SUU now- He gets to visit and read stories to Tuck and Tate just about every night and they love him. He spoils our boys rotten and Tuck always asks for his "Unk Todd" when he wants a book read aloud. We love you Uncle Todd!

Family Pics

2008-07-28T15:42:00.005-06:00

I personally think my boys are all so handsome- but you can certainly tell who they got their looks from- Not a Burton gene to be found in any of them! You can thank the Jewkes for their fat heads and prominent noses and the Spencers for the big ears... Yeesh! Let's hope they keep their sweet personalities!

So here are a few of my favorites from our most recent attempt at a family picture- I say attempt because I always picture a romantic outing with the family where the children kiss and hold hands and smile perfectly (that includes Danny) and where I look as good as I did at 19. In reality, the kids were monsters the whole time, screaming and whining, Dan pulled funny faces in just about every shot, and in my head I looked A LOT thinner than I do in real life... They say T.V. adds ten pounds but does that hold true to computers as well? I'd like to think so! We love Nicole Bulkley Photography and her talents with the camera- No one else is as patient and long suffering as she is- and even with screaming babies- She managed to get a few here that turned out really well. Thanks Nicole! You're the Best!

Things Are Going Along Swimmingly

2008-07-27T23:53:00.007-06:00

Some Pics of us swimming as a family- The boys had a blast playing with Auntie Jo in the water. Dan looks hilarious with his Farmers Tan- it looks like he has a white T-shirt on but NO!- it's just his white white skin...

I signed Tucker and Tate up for Swimming Lessons again this Summer and they both did really well. We signed up through SUU Aquatics and I really enjoyed the One on One time with both boys. I do love having the boys so close together but it is really hard to carve out personal time with each- so the hour alone each day was priceless. I love my boys- They are so much fun to play with and watch as they grow and try new things.

Tucker is such a timid little man- so tiny and frail, but in the water he does so much better. He is getting stronger every day and I'm so proud of him- He tries so hard to catch up with other kids his age. His physical therapist has encouraged us to do as much swimming as possible- it's great for his little muscles without a lot of jarring or chance of injury and he loves jumping off the edge into my arms. It's taken him a while to get brave enough for a lot of the milestones and activities they encourage for his age, but we'll get there.

Tate on the other hand is my brave little soldier. He squirms out of my arms any chance he gets and loves sticking his face under water. He still doesn't understand that you're not actually supposed to drink the pool water but he's doing really well. He is so strong willed and determined. I think he will excel at anything he tries. The only thing he hates is being cold- as soon as we get out of the water- he starts to whine and says "All- Done?" He shivers with his whole body and his little lips turn purple. When the boys are together- Tate helps and encourages Tuck to be braver and try harder things. They are the best of friends and I hope Tate always helps Tuck out.

Thaddy didn't like the water AT ALL. His little legs just kicked and he whimpered until Dan took him out of the pool- We'll have to wait til next summer before we try the swimming again...

The boys are both braver and more open to more challenging things when Dan is in the pool- and I love when he comes swimming with us. I usually strap them down with life-jackets and water wings but Dan let's them float free and try new things. I love my little water babies.

I think their favorite part of the day was snuggling together in the lawn chair and warming up in the afternoon sun- What at precious shot of my 3 baby boys!

Havin' a Ball

2008-07-27T22:59:00.007-06:00

A DAY IN THE PARK
Celebrating The 24th With The Spencers

We got to travel up to SLC for the 24th of July and partake in the annual Spencer Family Reunion. It was so great to see everyone and catch up- We don't get to see our family nearly enough! We had a wonderful picnic and enjoyed the warm weather and good company. Later on, my boys loved playing in the park and chasing after their bigger 2nd cousins. We all participated in a rousing game of kickball and enjoyed adorable games that Grandpa Spencer took the time to organize. Then all the men in the family played football and catch while the womenfolk sat and chit-chatted. It was so nice! Here are a few of my favorite shots of the boys playing ball- The football was just about as big as Tucker but he was determined to be a part of the team and Tate loved the Soccer ball- He cried and cried when we had to put it up and go home. I guess I know what to get him now for his Birthday?! His new favorite word is "Ball" and anything that rolls or is throw able is now "Ball-Worthy". Everyone was so patient with my little boys- Grandpa Burton ran bases with Tucker and no one complained when the boys ran every base for both teams and mucked up the entire game. It was great to see everyone and catch up- It was too quick of a trip- but better than none at all...

All The World Is A Stage

2008-07-19T01:17:00.006-06:00

Dan and I posing with Shakespeare before the play begins. In our "goin' out clothes"- for a night out on the town.Dan and I had the opportunity go to the Gala Celebration for USF last night and it was such a nice evening. We rarely have the chance to dress up and just spend time together. Our date started with a silent auction and a "meet and greet" with the Board of Governors for the Utah Shakespearean Festival. All the patrons and sponsors were there and it was nice to rub shoulders with a few of Dan's co-workers and superiors. I put our names down for a few of the items and packages being auctioned- but we were grossly outbid by others with MUCH deeper pockets. (I think Dan was actually relieved, but I was a little disappointed- They had some fun prizes!)
We then enjoyed a wonderful meal and conversation with the CEO and Regional Director of Zions, along with a few of Dan's friends and co-workers. There was a nice program with recognition for the sponsors and announcement of the winners from the silent auction. It was the first time since Dan switched jobs that I've got to meet anyone new and it was nice to put faces with the names of those he always talks about. I was quite proud of Danny and how far he's come in his field since we've been married. He is the youngest Commercial Relationship Manager in all of Zions Bank right now and I'm proud as punch. We felt a little out of place since the couple closest to us in age was a full 15 years older than us- but who's counting right?
We then were escorted over to the Randall L. Jones Theater on the SUU campus and got to enjoy the Gala Performance of "Fiddler on the Roof". It was a great play and something out of the ordinary for us. I can never drag Dan to anything "artsy fartsty" so it was nice that he HAD to go for work. He had never seen the play or movie- so it was great for him and although he'll never admit it, he enjoyed it. He even laughed...
What a nice Friday night date! I don't know if I can go back to our typical T.V. movie and popcorn on the couch...
I'm so proud of my Danny- He's doing so well and I can't wait to reap more rewards from his hard work! I love you Dan- Thanks for a lovely date night!

Not An Original Bone In My Body... Memory Lane Tag

2008-07-15T13:39:00.000-06:00

So I'm totally copying you, Annie Karren, and doing the Memory Tag on my Blog as well. It's a cute idea- and I need some positive memories from people! I've been thinking of all the good memories of all my friends and family and can't wait to share. :)

Instructions:
1. Add a comment on my blog. Add one memory that you and I had together. It doesn't matter if you knew me a lot or a little, anything you remember.
2. Next, re-post these instructions on your blog and see how many people leave a memory about you. It's actually pretty funny to see the responses. If you leave a memory about me, I'll assume you're playing the game and I'll come to your Blog and leave one about you. If you don't want to play on your blog, or if you don't have a blog, then I'll leave a memory of you in my comments.

Wrastlin' With Daddy

2008-07-13T22:34:00.000-06:00

I love Dan. He is the funnest husband and Daddy. It is so fun to watch him grow into his role as Father. He truly loves his boys and wants only the best for them. He pushes them to develop and rough houses with them- They are braver with him and try harder things when he encourages them. Mama is an old softie and hates to do anything that makes them uncomfortable but Dan is helping them learn how to be little men. He has decided lately that he is going to raise wrestling boys and is now teaching them "the moves". Here's some cute pics of the boys "wrastlin'".

The Boys love playin' with their Daddy and can't stop giggling when he teases them. I just wish he wouldn't rile them up right before bedtime!!

Dan likes to dish it out- but after an hour or so of teasing the boys- He is exhausted. The good thing is they all sleep like angels after their "lessons".

Spring 2008

2008-07-11T14:34:00.000-06:00

Tucker, Tate and Thad Jewkes

So -Easter came and went so fast this year that I barely had time to dye Easter Eggs with the kids, let alone get pictures done on time! So here are my boys in their Easter Outfits. And yes, I do realize it is now July and Easter was in March, but in my defense, I had just given birth and Thad didn't fit in his outfit yet- so we waited until the end of May to take these pics. It's the first set of pictures with all 3 of them and it was quite the ordeal getting them to all sit and smile at the same time...

I finally got them picked up and ready for framing so I thought I'd share!

Brad and Ashlee actually gave us Thad's little outfit when he was born and I loved it so much that we went back to Gymboree and found coordinating outfits for the 2 older brothers. It's so fun to dress them up for special occasions! I can't believe how different they look from each other when you line up the pictures side by side- Tuck looks just like his Daddy and Tate has sparkly blue eyes like Brad Burton and Thad still kind of looks like a troll (but a cute troll?) I can't believe I have 3 little men- I think they are all so handsome!

Now I don't know if I'm breaking copyright laws or whatnot- but Story Book Portraits here in Cedar City did these photos and they are amazing and I love them and I'm not posting them for any other purpose than just to show off...

I feel so bad for Thaddy cuz' Tucker and Tate are such buddies-They do everything together and are inseparable- I need to get Thad a best friend here real soon! I love that Tuck and Tate are best friends, though. It warms my heart when they play together and giggle.

Happy Easter/Spring 2008! (VERY belated)

Child Of Mine

2008-07-08T23:25:00.000-06:00

Thad is 4 1/2 months old now and I can't believe how fast time has flown!! We had our 4 month check-up and the poor baby got 4 shots. (Yes, I'm a little behind in the Doctor Appointments...) and needless to say, he is not a happy camper tonight. His chubby little legs are so tender, he just whimpers every time we pick him up, so we've got him doped up on Tylenol and Snuggles. The rest of his appointment was fine, though. He is a whopping 16 pounds now and is healthy and happy and has a GINORMOUS head just like his father!

Thaddy is such a good baby. He is so mellow and never makes a sound unless he's hungry or lonely. He squawks now when he feels he's being ignored & it's so cute the way he follows his big brothers around with his eyes. You can just tell that he wants to be big enough to play with them. He loves to engage anyone with his "baby speak" and will tell you a great story if you pay attention to him long enough. We truly lucked out with this 3rd boy. He is just as tender and sweet as Tucker but I think he'll be as strong and daring as Tate. So far- he's a great combination of his two older brothers. It's so fun to watch his personality deepen as he gets bigger. It's crazy to me that they all have such individual and obvious traits right from Birth- Where did they get them all from?

It's so amazing to watch him grow and develop. He is rolling over like crazy and I can't leave him anywhere he can fall off anymore. He is trying to sit up lately and it's so funny to watch his face when he's struggling to do his crunches. He loves to giggle and coo and has the most ticklish feet ever. He's getting some pretty strong legs and I think it's time to pull out the Exer-Saucer soon and let him get some exercise. He bats at everything and grabs anything within reach lately and loves to grab my earrings and hair. (OUCH!) The Doctor says that we can start him on rice cereal and it will be so fun to watch his face as we try to feed him.

I love this little man and I'm so grateful that he's a part of our family. I can't picture our family as complete without him. He brings such a sweet spirit into our home and is so fun to cuddle and love on. It breaks my heart that he's already so big- They really do grow up soo fast!

4th of July Madness!

2008-07-06T23:36:00.001-06:00

We packed the kids and all our gear and headed out to Sheep Valley/Fish Lake for the 4th of July weekend. The weather was ideal and it was so nice to get out of the heat. It is beautiful up in the mountains and the fresh air did us all good.

I think Dan and the boys had a good time setting up camp- It's frustrating that everything goes up so quickly and then takes twice the time to tear down...
The boys loved the 4 wheelers and Rhino rides- I'm afraid we'll have to invest in a few of these as the boys get older. Tucker keeps asking for more rides on the "poor wheelers".

I'd like to say that I enjoy camping, but that would be a big fat lie. I've never particularly liked to camp- and now with the tent bursting at the seams with 3 play pens and ornery babies- It's less fun than ever. I love my comfy bed, indoor facilities and a fridge. Unfortunately, I realize that with 4 men in my life-Camping and Fishing and all things Outdoorsy are in my future. That being said, the boys loved being outside and getting dirty. It was fun to watch them explore and follow around the bigger cousins. This is the first time we've been out camping since Tuck was born and it was actually quite nice.

We loved seeing everyone and catching up with all the family. We haven't seen anyone for soo long! I'm a little bit of a hermit when I'm pregnant and huge- and I've basically been that way for the last 3 years...

It was fun to dress up the babies and get out to enjoy the holiday. If I can't have girls to play dress-up with, at least I can have cutesy matching outfits for my boys!! The boys loved waving the flags and being out in the sunshine. Happy 4th of July!

I have such good memories of the Burton Family Reunion and I'm glad I have pictures of another generation enjoying the Camp as well. These are the memories that make up a family- and whether I like it or not, camping is a big part of it.

Peas in a Pod

2008-07-01T14:41:00.000-06:00

So I finally got up the courage to put Tucker and Tate in the same room together. I think it's important for kids to share rooms and I didn't want the kids to get used to be alone for too long but I was worried that the boys wouldn't do well together or keep each other from sleeping. They have done remarkably well though. They do wake each other up occasionally but it's so fun to hear them laughing together and playing. I think it has made them better friends and even more inseparable than before. I haven't moved them into big boy beds yet because I value my sleep too much and think a good nights rest is more important than anything else, so I bought these awesome "Toddler Crib Tents" to keep them contained and to prevent midnight visitors. They love them and Tucker asks to go to bed now in his "Bed-Tent". I haven't ever had any problems with Tucker climbing out of his crib but Tate never wants to be anywhere he's supposed to be- so these are a lifesaver! It keeps all their stuffed animals and blankets contained as well. They used to love to throw out their lovies and taggie blankets on the floor and then whine for me to come pick them back up. This way they can't blackmail me into coming back into the room 50 times a night...I love to hear them giggling together- Tucker always laughs and says, "Tate- You're Funny!" They love to play Peek-A-Boo with each other and jump up and down inside their tents. I think this was an awesome discovery that will let me get a few more months good use out of their cribs... I also love knowing that they're safe and where they should be and can't get out by themselves. Peace of Mind is Priceless!

Horsin' Around

2008-07-01T02:23:00.000-06:00

I thought for sure that my boys would run screaming in the other direction at the sight of a big scary horse, but they must have a little cowboy blood in them. They LOVED the Horses and have talked about nothing else since their "hose-rides" as Tucker calls them. Tate keeps walking around the house asking "Horse-Pease?", as if I can magically make the horses reappear.

Dan is violently allergic to all things Horse, so I was a little nervous for the boys to be around them- but it looks like they got my constitution after all. Just in case, though, I had a bottle of Benedryl in my pocket ready to pour down either of their throats at the first sign of an attack...

Tucker was a little timid at first, scared that he would fall, but Tate was fearless, as usual. I had to pry them both off the horse after their turns were up!

The boys got to have the pony rides as part of a Birthday Party today and they were acting like spoiled brats. Zoe, the sweet Birthday girl, was happy to share and didn't fuss at all when she had to share her birthday pony rides, but "It's my party and I'll cry if I want to" apparently applied to all toddlers attending. They were so excited to ride on the horses and go for pony rides that they screamed and threw fits when the other kids got their turns. It was all I could do to keep them from both going nuclear! We had to stand next to the horses for most of party and when the horses left with other riders, the boys took it as a personal insult.

I may have to save up for some cowboy boots and get 'em both a stick horse for Christmas this year. ( I don't think we have the room for an actual horse.)

Giddy Up!

Tater Nuts

2008-06-29T17:15:00.001-06:00

As many of you know- Tate drives me crazy. He is stubborn and headstrong and just like me, so we butt heads constantly. He does the craziest things and is always making us laugh- He is fearless and daring and totally nuts. Tucker calls him his best friend and when he does something funny or crazy he always tells us that "Tatey is Nuts". Thus the title. When Tucker wants Tate to come play he just hollers 'Tater-Nuts'! It's our new favorite nickname.

Happy 3rd Birthday Tucker!

2008-06-29T03:57:00.000-06:00

So I can't believe I have a 3 year old little man. I know it should be a celebration for him and of his life up to this point- but really I'm just baffled that I've been able to keep a child alive for 3 years. I can't even keep a fern alive...

Tucker is my sweet little man. He is tender and affectionate and emotionally intelligent beyond his years. He picks up on the mood of a room quicker than most adults and is always asking me "Momma- Are you Happy?" He loves to give hugs and cheesy smiles and turns to mush at a harsh tone. It really helps me to keep the hollering in check because anytime I do raise my voice, he says- "Don't yell Momma- It breaks my heart." I love this little boy. These past 3 years have gone so quickly. It seems like just yesterday that we were bringing our tiny 4 pound baby home from the hospital and now he's running around and getting so big. He is still barely 20 pounds but I love his little chicken legs and it lets me pretend he's a baby for a little longer. I've read that the heartbreak of parenting is that you're basically working yourself out of a job. The measure of a good mother is shown through strong, self-sufficient children who leave the nest- but I love my little Tucker-Bird and can't stand the thought of him getting any bigger! Having Tuck in our lives has been a true blessing and I can't wait to watch him grow- even if it does break my heart.

Thad's Blessing Day May 4, 2008

2008-05-04T18:14:00.000-06:00

I can't believe I just blessed my 3rd son. Dan did a wonderful job and said the sweetest things in the blessing for our little Thaddy. He always takes the time to really think about specific things he wants each child to blessed with and Thad was no different. Dan and I have felt from the beginning that Thad is a tender little man and so it was important to both of us that he be blessed with strength to face the world and not to let lifes disappoinments break his spirit. I worry that he will be broken by unkind words and deeds, so Dan also blessed him to always trust in his older brothers and to let them take care of him. The name Thad actually means "heart" or "gift of God"and he is our little sweetheart from Heaven. I couldn't ask for a more mellow and sweet natured son. Dan also blessed him a the knowledge of how much his mama loves him. What more could a child need than big protective brothers and a hovering overprotective mother?

It was great to have all the family here to celebrate the day and I only wish we could have had Eric in on the circle before he left on his mission. Jodi came down from Logan just to love on her nephews and Dan's parents came from Price. We are fortunate to have the first 3 grandsons on both sides of the family- so my boys get a lot of attention.

Dan's mother Vila, made Thad's little booties and Blessing Blanket as she has for each boy and I love that we have such special keepsakes for each boy. I have made it a point to assign a specific color to each boy for their blessing outfits. Tucker was Baby Blue, Tate was Navy Blue and Thad is Royal Blue. Heaven help us if we have another boy- there aren't that many blue options left! I try to even dress them in these specific blues - I know it's OCD but I like have a specific color and wardrobe for each child.

What a special day for us and our 3rd little boy. Now we just need to get him a baby brother to take care of!