These are the Moments

Dance Party

2012-01-24T12:31:00.000-08:00

Last week I decided that our family was in some desperate need of some good 'ole fashioned f.u.n.

I had no idea what to do and not many resources to pull from so I decided that a dance party was in order.

The boys were not to thrilled to hear that we were going to be dancing but once the word party was introduced they were totally on board.

Beckam insisted that we had cupcakes for the party so we spent the afternoon working on some rather unsuccessful cupcakes that needed to be eaten with a spoon... but he was happy.

Cade is now convinced that he is the best dancer in the family {and reminds us of it every day} and Becks is convinced that he is the best DJ ever... and he kinda is.

We had a blast with the music up loud, kids dancing crazy and laughing our guts out.

Gotta love Monday night dance parties.

Cade originals... from about 2 years ago.

2012-01-23T20:16:00.001-08:00

I have had these on the sidebar for about 2 years now... time to document them and move on to bigger and funnier things from this kid. love him.

--Cade Originals--

-Cade was playing a boxing video game with jared. He knocked a guy out and Jared said, "wow, Cade, you jacked him up!" Cade then says, "Yeah, he's wearing a jacket!"

-We were playing the extra games on the furious five DVD from Kung Fu Panda. One of the things you can do is find out what Chinese year you were born in. Cade was so excited and was convinced he would be a dragon. We clicked on his year and a rooster pops up. I say, "Hey Cade, you are a rooster!" His jaw almost hit almost hit the floor and he said with disgust, "A chicken! I don't want to be a dumb chicken!"

-I asked Cade what his daddy's name was and he said, "Jared." I then asked him what my name was and he said, "Aunt Lacey."

-Cade said, "Hey mom, I have 2 pennies!" I replied, "well that is cool, where did you get them from?" He said, "the Holy Ghost." I surprisingly said, "Oh really, that is cool." He said, "yep, He dropped them down to me."

-Cade was playing Madden College Football on PS3 with Jared. The announcer was talking about the Buckeyes. Cade then says, "The butt guys? Their name is the butt guys!?"

Hands

2012-01-14T19:10:00.000-08:00

We have had busy days,

busy weeks,

and busy hands.

Some of our hands are more predictable than others.

Cade has been working hard in school. He is in the AR reading program which is a love/hate thing. Not sure who hates it more.... him or me. I have decided that teaching your child to read is right up there with potty training... no bueno.

He is doing very well despite the frustration and the "you are the meanest mom evers..."

I think that deep down he actually likes it {especially math} it is just hard to slow down a busy 6-year-old sometimes.

Meanwhile in the other room.... some more predictable hands.

I know that if there is any type of candy in the house Beckam WILL find it.

No matter where it is.

No matter how high.

No matter how well hidden.

He will find it.

He is full of mischief but also so much love. He is my love bug that will stop whatever he is doing to give me a hug and a "I love you mom." 10 minutes later there just might be a melt down and a "I hate this!" but I take the loves that I can.

And little miss...?

Her feet have been busy.

Pictures to come, when I can get her to slow down long enough.

Rock Stars

2012-01-11T16:32:00.000-08:00

Beckam had his good friend Trent over to play the other day. Trent had just gotten a guitar for his birthday and Beckam was beyond excited to pull his out and jam.

These two were totally cracking me up. They were full on rock stars whether the camera was around or not, jamming on their guitars and singing at the top of their lungs.

Love it.

Truth

2011-12-17T15:19:00.001-08:00

Jump for joy...

Christmas is here.

Trouble? Yes.

2011-12-03T21:18:00.001-08:00

Do you really need to ask?

It is Beckam.... middle name mischief.

He found markers at Jason and Melissa's house and just couldn't resist.

I couldn't resist having to turn around to hide my laughter when looking at him.

These pictures were actually the next morning after breakfast so it had worn quite a bit. {yes, I did let him sleep, eat, and play with it all over his face. Bad mom? Maybe. But it made me laugh.}

Apparently he did not notice it was there until he saw his reflection in the bathtub faucet. It was great.

Seriously love this little boy.

I often shake my head and wonder what on earth happens in that little brain of his but he sure keeps things ~~interesting~~ fun around here.

Happy birthday, little lady

2011-12-02T17:08:00.001-08:00

It happened. About 1 month ago {ahem, yep slacker} my baby turned 1. Cannot believe it, then again it feels like it has always been. I have been smitten with this little lady since the moment I met her.

It has been such a joy to watch her learn and grow. It is truly fascinating how a little girl can be so vastly different from her brothers but also fit so perfectly. She is full of love, smiles and so much joy. She has filled a void in me that I did not even know existed until she was born and I felt so much more whole.

She does have a bit of shyness in her that is typically only manifest in large, unfamiliar groups {unfortunately, just like her mama.} She loves to observe and cautiously join, until she is comfortable. However, her eyes always sparkle with so much happiness. It makes my heart happy to see her.

It has been such a joy to have her in our family. We all adore her and cannot get enough of her.

Things to remember-

-You are this close to walking. You will walk on your knees or holding someone's hand but not on your own quite yet. {mom, and you tights, hope you start soon}

-You talk all.the.time. It is so so so cute to listen to you jabber. I think you sound like a little martian with your words. Love it.

-When you get shy you will put your head down and your hands over your ears.

-Your hair can finally hold a clip by its self. It usually stays.... until you realize it is there and pull it out to chew on.

-You love to smile at everyone. You know when you are the center of attention and soak it in.

-You have the best belly laugh.

-You climb on and pull out everything.

-Your favorite thing, that you cannot have, is moms wallet.

-At 12 months you weighed 20lbs and were 30 inches tall.

Sure do adore you, little lady!

typical saturday morning.

2011-10-11T20:04:00.000-07:00

Doesn't everyone

lay in bed,

in their undies,

and laugh their guts out

on Saturday mornings?

That's normal,

right?

Capri: Month 9 & 10

2011-09-19T19:27:00.000-07:00

Now that you are almost 11 months I guess it is about time....

-You have become extremely mobile these past few months. You started your army crawl a few months back but you have finally realized it is much faster {and cleaner } to use your knees instead of your tummy.

-You love to eat and get V.E.R.Y. frustrated if we are eating and you are not getting a bite.

-You love people. You give loves, hugs, and smiles to everyone you see.

-You like to give big bear hugs when you get out of bed.

-You love the stairs and are actually rather good at them.

-You like to stand up on everything.

-You now have 7 teeth and like to remind us that they are there. {ouch}

-You babble all day long.

-You usually go to bed at 7pm and wake up around 7:30am.

-You really love bananas.

We love, love, love you to pieces. You are the sweetest little thing and we are so thankful to have you in our family. We all adore you.

-You are always getting new bumps and bruises.

-You say mama and dada all day long.

-You are starting to think that big kid food is way cooler than baby food.

-You like to try and steal Beckams' sippy cup.

Someone please tell me...

2011-08-30T15:01:00.000-07:00

How did this happen?

Seriously.

First day of kindergarten was a complete success.

He came home asking why he couldn't stay all day.

Home work, uniforms, school projects.

I am a full fledge mom now.

I love it.

Capri: Month 8

2011-07-15T16:48:00.000-07:00

I cannot believe that we have reached 8 months already! You are closer to 1 year than you are to being a newborn... how did that happen!?

You are the pretty much the sweetest baby ever.

-you love your blankets. a lot.

-you have not met a food you don't like. You are always interested in taking a taste of whatever we are eating. Your recent favorite has been graham crackers and bananas.

-you love the pool. You will sit back and float around all day.

-you were not too interested in the beach.

-you love to smile and do at everyone.

-you recently found your voice... and it is loud.

-you just got a new highchair and you think you are pretty cool stuff in it.

-you are still a pretty good sleeper and if you have to miss a nap you are pretty good and just going with the flow.

-you just started to army crawl and seem to find everything and anything on the floor.

-you l.o.v.e. jewelry. I have to turn my wedding ring into my palm when I feed you because you always want to grab it and eat it.

-you are still wearing 6-9 month clothing.

-you will do anything to get a hold of a diaper. You find them so interesting.

-you bring so much peace to our house.

We love you little lady. So so so much. You bring us all so much joy....

but you are getting big way too fast! Just stay little forever.

*side note: yes, Beckam did turn 3. I didn't forget. We celebrated. I didn't take pictures, shoot. He was so sweet. I am working on his 3 year old pictures.... soon.

Yum.

2011-06-13T20:29:00.000-07:00

Don't you just want to eat her all up?

She is pretty much the sweetest thing... ever.

Capri: Month 6 & 7

2011-06-03T14:53:00.000-07:00

I cannot believe that 7 months has passed with this little peanut. She is such a joy and is growing up so quickly.

-you are finally brave enough to sit all on your own. you still tip yourself over sometimes when you get excited but for the most part you do well.

-you love your baby food. you haven't found one yet that you don't like.

-you love to squeal all the time.

-you sleep 11-13 hours at night... its a beautiful thing.

-you are totally content to take your naps in the car seat.

-you are complimented on your eyes all the time...they are a beautiful blue.

-you had your second tooth pop through.

-you chew on everything.

-you can roll but only do so when you are in the mood.

-you love your soft blanket.

-you smack your lips often.

-you love to softly run your fingers through moms hair and just look at it.

-you go with the flow well.

-you love, love, love the pool. we put you in your floaty and your relax the whole afternoon.

-you hate the big bathtub, go figure.

-you also turned 6 months old... a month ago. I was intentionally waiting to post the 6 month pictures until we had you weighed at the doctors. However, the appointment was pushed back several weeks because of a trip to the ER we had to make with you. One night you spiked a fever and couldn't stop throwing up. You quickly became very lethargic and glassy eyed so we rushed you to the ER in the middle of the night. After many hours, test, prods, and pokes the finally discovered that you had a UTI, you were one sad little baby.

We did eventually make it to the pediatrician for your 6 month check.

At 6.5 months-

Weight- 16lbs 4oz

Height- 26.5 inches

Head- 43.5 cm

You are such a joy and we are all so thankful for the sweet and calming spirit you bring to our family. We love you baby girl!

Blessings from Heaven

2011-05-13T14:48:00.000-07:00

Back in February Jared blessed this sweet baby girl of ours, and it was beautiful.

We were lucky enough to be surrounded by all of our family. We waited until my cute brother, Ryan, came home from his mission so he could be there with us. We were also then able to enjoy his amazing homecoming talk the next morning.

We went to Utah and were actually able to bless her in my sister-in-law, Marisa's, house on Saturday February 26, 2011. It was so wonderful to be in Wright's home with family and friends and to watch all the men who love Capri dearly take part in giving her a name and a blessing.

It was beautiful.

Little Miss was an absolute angel.

The blessing was followed by a delicious dinner and lots of chatting and laughing. It is such a blessing to have this sweet little baby girl in our lives, to have the gospel and the priesthood and to have family that loves us all and each other so much.

Such blessings from Heaven.

It was so much fun to pick out her blessing dress and all the little "details" to go along with it. I found her beautiful ivory dress in a little antique shop in Ohio and then her Uma and Papa bought it for her. It was a joy to plan the blessing and even more wonderful to be there.

Thank you to all of our family and friends that made the trek to Utah to share in this wonderful occasion with us.

How lucky

2011-04-04T19:10:00.000-07:00

That I get to call these 2 little men mine!

They make my life crazy.

They make my life loud.

They make my life happy.

They make my life.

They are learning {in small steps} to really enjoy each other. They are definitely brothers and like to "love" each other like brothers {punching, kicking, bugging} but they are really starting to have fun together.

There is nothing like watching your children learn to love each other.

Capri: Month 4 & 5

2011-04-03T12:21:00.000-07:00

Once upon a time there was a little girl named Capri and her mommy was really good about posting about her... until she turned 4 months. {lame, I know!}

Month 4 has come and gone and seemed to fly by. Despite all the doctors visits, runny noses, mucousy coughs, breathing treatments, and sleepless nights we made it through and couldn't have loved this little baby any more.

At 4 months you were...

24.5 inches long

11 lbs 14 oz

and

41 cm head circumference

You are officially smallest and longest baby in our family.

And before I knew it 5 months snuck up on us.

-You love to smile.

-You giggle and laugh all day long.

-You love to sleep snuggled up with your blanket by your cheek.

-You love to stand on our laps so you can see what is going on.

- You are a little talker.

-You are finally wearing 6-9 month clothes.

-You really like your rice cereal.

-You usually go to bed around 8:30 p.m. and wake up around 8 a.m.

-You drool all.the.time.

-You love to chew on anything, especially your clothes.

- Your cheeks are starting to fill out and you are getting little chubs on your thighs.

-You eat 6-8oz per feeding.

-Your little eyes sparkle.

-Your arms and legs are always going.

-Nicknames include- baby girl, Caaaapri, and peanut.

You are the sweetest and easiest little baby ever. We love you so so so much!

Brotherhood: defined

2011-02-02T22:33:00.000-08:00

I love my little men and they love each other... most of the time.

It has been interesting to watch their relationship grow and develop. To watch them try to figure out where each others buttons are and how to push them just enough without getting into trouble. But in the same breath, be the one they turn to when they do.

When I lay in bed at night and think of them I picture them as they are above.

Holding hands.

Looking to each other for guidance.

Laughing together.

However, when I wake up and am actually in the throws of life with them this is how it R.E.A.L.L.Y is...

I will take it.

It is real.

And it makes me giggle.

So there you have it...

Brotherhood in real life.

Capri: Month 3

2011-02-02T21:39:00.000-08:00

Can you believe it... 3 whole months!! Time is going so fast I just cannot believe it. I am not sure if it is because she is my 3rd and I am into "mom grove" or because she is my little girl but I am so happy, content, and in love with this little baby.

She just makes my heart happy.

-you love to smile. especially at mom... and I love it!

-you just discovered your hands and are constantly fascinated by them.

-you are always holding onto your shirt with your right hand.

-you just started to giggle a little bit.

-you sleep about 8 hours at night.

-you do not like the camera. You smile and smile until the camera comes up and then the smiles are gone.

-your eyes are still blue... and absolutely beautiful.

-you love your blanket by your cheek when you fall asleep.

-you take most of your naps in your car seat... Guess it comes with having older siblings that are always on the go.

-you made your first "sick trip" to the doctor. poor baby!

-your arms and legs are constantly moving but yet you still remain so calm.

-you always want to see people. you can be screaming your lungs out and if we just walk into view you are fine.

-you love your tongue and are always sticking it out.

-you eat about 5 ounces per feeding.

-you can calm anyone who is holding you.

-you are all girl. even your cry is sweet and dainty.

-you love to keep eye contact with whoever has you.

We L.O.V.E. you our sweet little Capri. You have brought so much peace and happiness to our home.

Christmas 2010

2011-01-07T23:47:00.000-08:00

Santa made it to our house and it was truly a success. I gave myself a gift this year. I decided to allow myself to enjoy the moment rather than spend all of my time trying to document every second of what happened. It is always such a struggle to know when to just stop, put down the camera, and enjoy my children being children and this year I decided that the first few moments would be documented in print and the rest as memories I will carry with me forever.

We had the pleasure of having my cute sister and her adorable family with us for Christmas. Alli and I couldn't help but laugh when we realized that we had unknowingly put all the boys in the same jammies. What are the odds that we would not only have bought the same ones but also put them on them the same night... we must be sisters or something :).

We also were able to have some good friends come over to join in the Chaos of Christmas morning with us and we also had my mom and dad with us via skype. So it was a houseful. So fun!

Cade loved everything he opened and wasn't afraid to share his excitement with all of us. He is truly one of the most fun kids on Christmas morning. So far the most played with gifts have been their Harry Potter wands and their remote control cars.

Beckam on the other hand had to be Convinced to open A.L.L. of his gifts. He was so focused on all the candy that surrounded him that he had a hard time paying attention to anything else. He was so worried that Cade would take his candy {and rightfully so} that he wanted to put it in his pockets to protect it. Only problem, jammies don't have pockets. That didn't stop Beck. He shoved all his candy in his "pockets" anyway and carried it around in his pant leg all morning. It was quite the sight to see him try and get it out.

Maddux was such a sweetie. He wanted to just hang back and take it all in. I can't blame the poor kid.... the Nielson boys can be rather overwhelming on a normal day let alone Christmas morning.

He was such a trooper.

And Miss Capri was an angel as always. She slept most of the time and the boys took turns opening her gifts for her and then attempting to show her what she got.

Although I put down my camera and lived in the moment there was one that I just couldn't miss. Jared and I have been so excited about having a backyard so we could get the boys a trampoline and it has been one of the best things we have ever bought. The boys L.O.V.E. it. They jump at all times of the day and night.

I love that I can look right through my kitchen window and watch them play, jump, and do whatever they can to get my attention.

It was truly a wonderful Christmas. It was so nice to be surrounded by our family and to join in the excitement of childhood with them. We feel so blessed.

Capri: 2 Months

2011-01-07T23:12:00.000-08:00

...2 months...

10lbs 1 oz

22.5 inches

39cm head circumference

- you are the sweetest little thing ever.

-you are full of smiles. you can always see your smiles coming before they show up.

- you average 4oz per feeding.

-you eat every 4 hours. you are awake for 1.5 hours and then sleep for about 2.5.

-you cannot fall into a deep sleep unless you are wrapped up nice and tight.

-you always manage to pull your bows over your eyes when you are in the car seat.

-you spend a.lot. of time in the car but love it {thank heavens}

-you sleep for about 6 hours at night but made it to 9 hours once you hit 9 weeks.

-your brothers constantly smother you with kisses.

-you are a noisy sleeper.

-you have blue eyes. {crossing fingers they stay blue}

-you took your first vacation to California with mom and dad and were amazing!

-you did not like getting shots and let the whole doctors office know it but were totally fine as soon as they were over.

-you are so calming.

-you are finally fitting into 0-3 month clothes.

-we love you to pieces.

Just for Grandma...

2010-12-13T17:04:00.000-08:00

You asked and I delivered.

Love you mom!!

6 weeks old

Side note: I do love her brothers too... they just don't hold still for the camera as long as she does :)

Capri: Month 1

2010-12-07T19:52:00.000-08:00

It has been 4 short weeks since she was born but it feels like she has always been with us.

Amazing how things you love fit perfectly into your life.

A few of my favorite things about you...

-dad and I could watch you for hours... and we often do.

-you love to be swaddled...tight.

-you just barely grew out of newborn clothes and can almost fit 0-3 month sizes.

-you get hiccups all.the.time.

-you eat almost 4oz every 4 hours.

-you are a patient little soul.

-you will go from dead asleep to an ear piercing scream... when a girl wants to eat she wants to eat.

-beckam calls you Pree and smothers you with kisses and hugs constantly.

-cade always wants to hold you and thinks he is way cool when he can stand up with you in his arms.

-i cannot pick you up without kissing you.

-purple is the color you look best in.

-you always burp twice in a row.

-you love your avent binki.

-you love to sleep.

We all love our sweet little Capri and are so thankful to have her here.

Love you baby girl!

8 lbs 13 oz

21.5 inches

37 cm head circumference

Life

2010-12-04T19:08:00.000-08:00

There is nothing like fall trees. I love them.

The color.

The crunch.

The memories they stir within my heart.

Not very often, in Las Vegas, do you actually get a glimpse of real fall trees. As enchanting as palm trees can be at first sight they don't exactly lend much to the fall season. So when I saw these trees my heart practically skipped a beat.

I was rather impressed with myself. I had all three kids up, bathed, dressed, fed, and on location by 8 a.m. I wont tell you what I looked like or how Beckam really acted but lets just say neither were very pretty.

Life is finally starting to get into somewhat of a routine. I still feel a little out of sorts that I have had to replace my normal, leisurely, 10 a.m. workout for a 5 a.m. sleepy eyed run, my enjoyable, quiet shower time with a speedy, chaotic rinse (if I am lucky), and laundry... well... hmmm... lets just say there is a lot of it.

However, how lucky I feel to have these 3 little monkeys. They have all grown, evolved, stepped up, given a little and loved a lot.

Being a mom is good. It is amazing. It is tricky. It is hard. It is everything.

I have recently gained a new perspective. A view from the other other side, if you will.

I had the incredible opportunity of photographing my dear friend Camille as she brought a beautiful baby into this world.

The mom feeling never changes... it just deepens...always

According to the Calendar...

2010-11-20T15:29:00.000-08:00

I should just be meeting her today...

...how lucky I am to have had almost 3 weeks to snuggle, kiss, and breathe her in instead.

And the pictures begin...

2010-11-11T10:18:00.000-08:00

This little Miss has been such a joy in our lives. She is the best little baby and makes life so easy. She has been sleeping and eating well and loves, loves, loves to be cuddled.

It was so much fun to photograph her. I have been thinking about what I wanted to do with her pictures for a long time so my mom and I wasted no time "dressing her up" with bow, tutus and blankets for her first photo shoot.

The rocking chair she is in in the above picture was actually the rocking chair my mom and dad bought to rock me in as a baby. It made my heart happy to see my little baby girl in it and to have already spent hours rocking her in the same chair.

This little girl thing is just too too much fun. She is such a joy and I feel so blessed to have started this new journey.

Her Big Debut

2010-11-08T20:57:00.000-08:00

As I sit here and write this post I still, a week later, cannot believe that I am holding my little baby girl... MY little baby girl! I have spent many hours in this very spot and felt her move and wiggle, wondered about who she was, what she would look like. And now here we are, as if it has always been, but now she is in my arms... and she is perfect.

I had a gut feeling, mothers intuition or maybe just a hope, that she would make her debut a little earlier than her brothers so I wasn't too surprised when I woke up in the wee hours of Monday morning with contractions and knew the time had come... 20 days early.

I noticed my first contraction at 2:30 am but tried to go back to sleep knowing that it would be a big day, however, once 3:30 am came I decided to get up and shower. I quickly noticed that my contractions were now rather regular, about 3-4 minutes apart, and knew it was time to spread the news. I woke Jared who in turn wanted to call anyone and everyone to let them know but settled for waking my mom, who luckily had made it to Las Vegas the night before, and calling his mom.

We headed to the hospital and checked in at 5:30 am. As I waited for the nurse to come check me I was worried they would send me back home because my contractions had slowed way down. However, the nurse was just as shocked as I was to find that I was dilated to a 5 and immediately admitted us with the caution to grab the anesthesiologist at the earliest opening because it was a busy day and as soon as my water broke the baby would be here.

I was so excited and so amazed that I had progressed as far as I had already. They got me all signed in, hooked up, and sent the epidural my way despite the fact my contractions seemed to have stopped. As soon as the anesthesiologist left the room they broke my water and I was quickly dilated to a 7. We were ready to get the show on the road. They called the doctor to update him and he asked if they could hold me off until noon, 4 hours away. The nurse just laughed and said there was no way we were going to make it that long.

I was so excited and couldn't believe how easily things had moved along. Not much pain, everyone I loved was there, I was having a baby... it just couldn't get better. The nurse continued to check me and was slightly concerned that the baby's hand was on top of her head but felt that she would move it back before delivery. However, the hours started to stretch on, dilation drastically slowed down, and baby's heart beat was varying, things were not looking so good. My sweet nurse continued to assure me that she would do all she could to get the baby to move her hand and that the doctor had confidence that it shouldn't be a problem. I was exhausted and a little frustrated with myself but hopeful.

After being in the hospital and dilated to an 8 for about 7 hours my nurse took her lunch break and left me in the hands of another nurse for 30 minutes. The other nurse quickly came to check in on me and very abruptly asked me if my original nurse had "informed me of the likelihood of a c-section." I told her that she had mentioned it but that we were working to get the baby to move her hand. The nurse told me I didn't have a chance, that I was going to harm the baby and possibly myself. She gave me the rundown of how the procedure would go and told me that I had an 80% chance of a c-section so I needed to prepare myself. I was so taken back, so crushed, so scared, I didn't know what to do with myself other than to try not to cry. The nurse turned to leave the room and Jared rushed over to hug me, which is when the tears started to flow. The nurse quickly turned around and told me to "stop crying or your nurse will be upset with me for making you cry."

My heart was broken. I did not want to have a c-section. I love delivering babies. I didn't want to miss out on that bonding time as soon as the baby was delivered. I didn't want to have to repeat the process the next time I delivered. I was scared and crushed.

My sweet nurse, Krystal, soon came back from lunch and told me she had heard what had happened and not to worry. We still had time left and the baby at least had turned her hand down and not facing up. I had been promised in a blessing before we left for the hospital that there "would be no accidents" and that was all I could hold onto. I spent the next several hours pleading with my Father in Heaven but promising to do whatever it took to keep my little one safe.

The time finally came and I knew I needed to push even though her little hand was still on top of her head. While we waited for the doctor to arrive I was able to go through a few rounds of practice pushes but was quickly stopped and told to wait for the doctor. Doctor Foster arrived soon thereafter and after one round of pushing he was visibly concerned. He could see the baby's hand and it was extremely swollen. He told me he would give me one more round and I pushed with all my might... but nothing.

You could feel the anxiety in the room, the c-section was looming, and it looked like despite all of our work over the past 13 hours it was going to be inevitable, but I wasn't ready to give up. I immediately felt the immense need to push again and kept saying, "I need to push, can I please push!" The doctor and nurse didn't hear me but my mom, who was right by my side, heard my desperation, and with hopeful but concerned eyes told me to push. I bore down and pushed with all my might and immediately the baby's little arm popped right out. I heard the doctor say, "well we are totally committed now." I was so excited but nervous because I knew if they couldn't get her through the birth canal there would be some major problems.

Doctor Foster told me to push again and with that one push our little miracle arrived. She had her umbilical cord wrapped around her neck and chest several times and that is what had held her hand on top of her head. It was the most amazing experience to finally hold her in my arms, to see her, to feel her, to have her... safe.

I know her slow entrance into this world was "no accident." I know that the Lord was watching over both of us that day. Loving us, teaching us, caring for us.

Our sweet little Capri has been such a joy and a blessing. She brings so much peace and innocence to our home. Her brothers completely adore her. Beckam smothers her with constant kisses and Cade always has to know where she is so he can "protect" her. Her daddy is so in love with her. And me... well... she melts my heart.

How thankful I am for her safe arrival. For the lessons my Heavenly Father taught me in those 13 hours. For her sweet spirit. For the knowledge that I get to have her with me forever.

So the journey begins... I cannot wait!

Capri Susanne Nielson

November 1, 2010

7lbs 3oz

19 inches

* thank you to my dear friend Camille for spending the whole day with us and capturing these precious moments.

::Gasp::

2010-10-17T14:41:00.000-07:00

I know... can you believe it! A post. Major accomplishment, I tell ya!

So much has happened that I figured I should quickly put at least some of it down before the little bambina gets here.

These two cute munckins started preschool. I went back and forth with the decision of sending Cade to kindergarten or another year of preschool and I am SO glad we opted for one last year of preschool. He has grown and progressed so well and I am so proud of him!

Cade and his cousin Amelia are almost exactly one year apart and are either the best of friends or the worst of enemies. I was a little nervous to see how it would play out with them being in the same class but I must say I couldn't be any more happy. They love having each other and I love that they will for the rest of their school careers.

This little man also celebrated his 5th birthday (2 months ago, ::blush::). He was so excited for his birthday and still asks when it is his birthday again. He was once again so excited for candles so we started the morning off with panCAKES and candles. He felt special and was sweet about his overflowing excitement.

We also went to the firehouse to have a "party" for him. We see the firemen at the gym every morning and Cade thinks they are so cool so I figured the firehouse would be the perfect place to celebrate his special day. The firefighters were so good to the kids and the kids hung on every word they said. {Thank you firemen for making seat belts no longer a battle every time we get in the car}

The guys even let Jared put on all of their gear. He felt like hot stuff. Becks on the other hand wasn't too sure what to think about it all so he stood back and just watched and listened to his daddy sound like Darth Vader.

And yes... I was there too :)

I know that I have been MIA lately and honestly cannot promise I will do much better in the coming weeks... I will try though.

Although the posts have been sparse, I have not been MIA from my busy life.

I had the amazing opportunity to venture out out to Ohio to spend some time with some amazing families. I am so blessed to have "family" all over the place.

It was strangely difficult to go back to Ohio, alone.

To have my parents gone.

Nobody at the airport to pick me up.

My bedroom no longer my bedroom.

My house no longer my house.

It was all strange and incredibly emotional. However, a necessary experience.

How thankful, though, I am for those sweet angels in my life that extended their love, homes, and family and allowed me to pull it together again.

It was such a joy to see everyone again and look forward to heading back east again. Love you all!

I also decided, as if I don't already have my hands full, to tap into my crafty side. My sister and I got together and decided that we needed to "make something." After multiple trips to the fabric store we came up with lots of fun flowers/bows. We started off with multiple sizes and I have recently ventured into making teeny tiny ones for the little bub (not pictured)... they are so cute and I cannot wait to get them on her!

Alli and I will soon be opening an etsy shop and I will also be hosting a Christmas Boutique in a few weeks with lots of fun venders and items just in time to get rocking on Christmas shopping. So if you would like to participate or if you are dying over the flowers (not going to lie, love wearing them in my hair, on my shirt, and also my shoes. Can you tell I am so getting into the girl vibe!) let me know. We would love to have you all!

So, there you have it.

No wise advice.

No motherly insights.

No jokes.

No tears.

Just busy.

Busy but good.

Cant wait for this little girl to make her way here. She is getting bigger and bigger and I keep praying she will finish cooking a little early. We are ready to snuggle her!

So until next time (keeping my fingers crossed next time is less than a month away), Happy Harvest!

One Lazy Saturday Morning

2010-09-12T15:04:00.000-07:00

One of my very favorite things as a mom is snuggling in bed with all my boys. Very rarely do we all actually end up there at the same time, especially since Jared started coaching football at the high school. However, this one lazy Saturday morning was just what my soul needed.

Lots of jumping and acting silly...

... lots of laughing...

... and lots of my family.

It is amazing how the small simple pleasures in life are the things that embed themselves so deeply in our soul that it gives us that extra umph to keep trudging through the not so simple things in life.

There is lots to share. More birthdays, an ever expanding belly, lots of traveling in different directions, new school, new routines, more work, more, more, more. But for now my little guys in their skivvies will have to suffice.... And lets be honest, that is a lot more fun than stories about "mom duties."

Jingle Bells ::mini style::

2010-09-08T18:56:00.001-07:00

It's that time of the year again... can you believe it!?

Time for carols, hot cocoa, lights, and the Christmas spirit is just around the corner. ::laaaaahh::

Enter dreaded Christmas cards...

So much fun to open the mailbox and see piled inside.

So much fun to open.

So much fun to display.

Not always so fun to complete.... until now.

Now you can have a cute card. A cute picture. And all your addressing and stamping out of the way just in time to start your "fa la la la laaaing" at the beginning of the season rather than on New Years.

All sessions are on a first come first serve basis so contact me ASAP to schedule your session. Your husband will thank you that he only has to be subjected to the camera for 30 minutes.

Your kids will sing your praises that the great outfit debate is over.

And you will be so happy that all you have left to do is sit back and sip your hot cocoa while watching Its a Beautiful Life.

So excited to see you!

Down... set... hike.

2010-08-11T16:26:00.000-07:00

A few months ago the boys pulled out Jareds old football jerseys.

They loved them.

They ran, they threw, they caught, they tackled, they thought they were hot stuff.

Jared was loving every minute of having his boys wear his gear... and think that their dad played for the "orange BYU cougars."

I decided that it was as good as time as any to head out with my camera and capture them ~~walking~~ running in their daddys footsteps.

I love that they both have such different personalities. Such different ways of approaching life.

Beckam is cool, calm, collected. If something bothers him he can brush it off until it really gets to him, he will have a major blow up for a minute, and then is done and moves on.

He loves to observe life. Take it all in. Soak it all up and then act.

Cade on the other hand runs into life head first, doesn't think, just goes.

Sometimes it works.

Sometimes it doesn't.

But there is never any shortage of entertainment and excitement in his life.

He is all competition. Working hard to do better than the last time. Taking life by the horns and living every single moment to its fullest.

Needless to say we are VERY excited to meet this little girl and learn more about who she is.

She is already a wiggler... especially at night... all night.

She loves to sit as low as she can possibly get. I am hoping it will maybe make getting her here a little faster :)

And she is already loved, adored, and cherished by her crazy older brothers.

26 weeks and counting. Can't wait!

Two

2010-07-26T08:55:00.000-07:00

Although this little guys birthday was over a month ago doesn't mean we didn't celebrate his amazing 2 years on this earth.

We happened to be in California on a family vacation so we got to spend his special day on the beach with all of our family!

He woke up as happy as could be and beamed as Jared and I sang him happy birthday in bed.

I decided to start the day off right... with candles! We pulled out a banana muffin and he did not even think twice about what he needed to do. Unlike his big brother, he basked in the spotlight as the whole family sang to him.

What better for a little boy... beach toys and balls. He was thrilled.

That night we had a big bon fire on the beach complete with hotdogs, smores and birthday cake. He was so excited to roast his own hotdog, even though he ate most of it before it even made it onto his bun.

We played and played and enjoyed every minute in the sand.

We are so thankful for our little Beckam. He has changed our family forever with his sweet, lovey personality. He is all boy and loves to be with his big brother and cousins but is never opposed to stopping to give us hugs and kisses.

We love you big guy! Happy Birthday!

{squeal}

2010-06-26T13:27:00.000-07:00

The mystery is over and I was totally proved wrong. After MULTIPLE checks, sure enough, Cade and Beckam will have a little sister to watch over, protect, and torment.

I cannot believe that a little girl is heading our way!

We are so so SO excited and have already started in on a list of girl names and purchased several pink outfits.

Cade was the only one that knew for sure he would have a little sister and has already decided that he is going to name her Sissy.

Not too much longer until I get to hold my little daughter in my arms {squeal}. Still cannot get used to using the terms her, she, and little girl!

So here we go on a whole new journey!

{Can't Wait!}

Update

2010-06-06T15:50:00.000-07:00

It has been a crazy couple of ~~days~~ months around here. I feel like I have spent a ridiculous amount of time on the computer and yet have done nothing with my blog. You can check out my photography blog to catch a glimpse of what I have been able to work with... I know. don't be too jealous.

So here is a quick recap of what is happening over here in our neck of the woods.

Cade

Cade has been doing well and keeping busy. He has already spent many hours in the pool and is really excited to start swim lessons on Monday. He is convinced that he will be teaching the class but none the less is excited to spend more time in the pool. He has recently decided that he is a "model." Every time my camera comes out, which is rare these days for my own family, he will bust out his GQ face and give me all sorts of poses. It is hilarious. So needless to say, the only way I can get a real smile out of him is to mention something about boogers... gotta love little boys! So predictable.

Cade also just graduated from preschool. I cannot believe that he is growing up so fast. He was not a fan of letters but LOVES numbers. He is now starting to realize that letters actually make words and so is warming up to the idea of actually learning and remembering all his letters. It makes me laugh to hear the things that he comes up with for me to tell him how to spell.

September '09 May '10

Beckam

Beckam is doing wonderful and still as sweet as ever. He truly makes my heart happy. He will always hold my hand and loves to give hugs and kisses to everyone. One of his true loves is food. He loves to have snacks and take them around in a plastic bag along with his sippy cup. He is quickly nearing his 2nd birthday and I cannot believe that he is not a baby any more. He still doesn't use many words but is oddly one the best communicators and listeners I have ever met.

He has recently discovered how to pack things around. His 2 favorite ways to haul his "trinkets" are either his dump truck that he will push all over the place or his pockets. He gets so disappointed in the morning time when he has jammies on because there are no pockets for his toys.

The other day when I did all of our laundry I came up with 3 cars, 2 army guys, 1 bakugan, a mini water gun and a binki out of his pockets. He loves his pockets and it always makes me smile.

Baby #3

Baby #3 is on its way and making me bigger than ever.... the things we do for these little ones! I am currently 16 weeks and the baby is the size of an avocado. So far this pregnancy has been the easiest of all... don't know if that is good or if it means that I am in for a child to make up for the ease but either way I feel blessed to feel good. We find out on the 27th of June what this little "avocado" is. Jared and I are both betting boy but I thought the other 2 would be girls... so much for my "mothers intuition."

Jared

(yes the picture is blurry... another one of cades discovered "talents" is a photographer. He is a little shaky but I love the picture and he is a crack up to listen to "direct" photos.)

This handsome young man turned 31 in May.... wow! We had a small birthday celebration for him and the boys truly enjoyed shouting "HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!" to him every chance they got. We also celebrated our 6th wedding anniversary in May. Jared surprised me by taking me to the JW Marriot for the night and treating me to a night out on the town. He is such a good husband. He has been busier than ever and we couldn't be any more proud of him. We are all looking forward to the evenings we will get to spend with him at the pool now that it is light and hot when he gets home from work.

Lacey

(Once again, Cades photo. He directed me to be a ninja... here are my punches. He was happy and it made me laugh.)

I am doing well. I have spent a great deal of time with my camera and some amazing families, lots of fun. I have also spent a lot of my mental energy on trying to figure out, "what's next." We have sold our condo and have been trying to find a house to rent for a while. I thought that it would be so easy to just pick something... I was wrong. I know we will find something but in the mean time I feel like I am touring all the homes and neighborhoods of Henderson.

I have also been stressing over what to do with Cade next year. Although I am SO ready for him to start kindergarten we both know that he isn't quite ready yet. So that leads me to solving another dilemma... where to take him to preschool. Still don't know. Oh the decisions of a mother.

Now that summer, and 110 degrees, are upon us I have been trying to be creative and take the boys on adventures. We have recently gotten snow cones, (lots of them),

visited the pet store (Cade leaving in tears because a dog didnt leave with us)

and spent a great deal of time at the pool (hello sunscreen and chlorine).

We are all REALLY looking forward to our summer vacations and being able to spend time with our family!!

Happy Summer to everyone!

You can only Imagine...

2010-05-06T13:18:00.000-07:00

The whole street blocked off.

Friends, neighbors, children, members of the community all mingling, hugging and exchanging stories.

Children laughing and giggling as they rode bikes and scooters up and down the street.

The air filled with the aroma of grilled hotdogs and the sweetness of freshly baked goods mingled with the music of the Eagles.

It was a vision straight out of a movie.

It was such a thrill to be involved in the Williams Warriors Fundraiser Benefit. So many people stepped up to the plate to not only bat but to hit a home run. As the preparations and set up began on Friday afternoon it was amazing to see what people came up with. Auctions of a signed Ohio State football, high school gear, spa packages, homemade items... the tables were endless.

The bake sale was amazing. All the items were not only amazing to eat but they were so beautiful to look at.

The kids couldn't get enough of all the fun activities... bounce house, face paint, fish pond, ice cream.

There were so many things happening and so much that had been done to lead up to this moment... this dream.

Just as the music began to blast I entered my dads office. I found him sitting at his desk looking out the window at all the commotion happening below.

I was beyond excited with what was happening and couldn't wait to see what he had to say.

My heart melted when I saw him look at me with one tear in his eye and say,

"you know, Lacey, sometimes things are just bigger than we are."

We had filled him and my mom in on what was happening but nobody could actually wrap their brain around what the end result really would be.

It was an emotional and touching moment for us all.

The night was full of support, love and most of all hugs. We were all so uplifted and touched by everyone who was there.

It was such an inspiration to me to see that 2 seemingly insignificant people can make such a difference in the world. All too often we get so busy with our own family, our own callings, our own to do lists that we forget to stop and see how we can help others.

My parents have always been such an example of serving and giving... even when there didn't seem to be "time." My dad has always been involved with the high school, whether he had a child there or not. My mom is continually loving and serving the whole community and loves her title of the "young grandma."

It was such a testament and inspiration to me that it is the small things that count. The few extra moments you spend with someone. The little words of encouragement. The never ending support that truly can change a whole community.

Thank you again to everyone who was involved in making this all happen. It truly involved people from across the whole nation. Our love and gratitude for you is endless.

I am now back home. Ready to go. Ready to give. Ready to serve.

Lets do it!

Hope

2010-04-13T14:16:00.001-07:00

Hope seems to be more tangible. Much easier. More real.

I don't know if it is because the bad news doesn't seem to be coming as often.

Or if it is because I have totally thrown myself into the Williams Warriors fundraiser.

Or if it is because there is

lightness...

happiness...

joy...

in my moms voice again,

which is like a breath of fresh air.

I don't know what it is, maybe it is a combination of everything but for this very second in time my life seems to be "normal" again.

While sitting in church on Sunday I found myself recalling the events of the previous week.

How it felt like I was sucker punched when my dad said, "they have found cancer."

How I didn't think that it could hurt any worse... until it did.

How I sobbed into my husbands arms after finding out how far the cancer had spread.

How he sobbed into mine.

However, among all the feelings of hurt, sadness, pain, and difficulty there was one overriding feeling of love.

The thought kept coming to me, "you have learned. If you do not share it, why have you learned it?"

At that moment I knew

I couldn't take my dads illness away.

I couldn't take my moms heartache away.

I couldn't change the facts.

However, I COULD share. Share what God has taught me.

It is amazing to me how the Lord teaches and allows us to learn. I have sat in and taught lesson after lesson about our Savior, about His atonement, about His love. All of them done with every energy of my heart. However, it is amazing how once we think we "know" something the Lord kindly allows us to

dig deeper,

to study harder,

to understand better.

What a blessing it is that He not only suffered in Gethsemane for our sins so that we can return to Live with Him again but that He suffered for our pains, our weaknesses, our sadness so that He completely understands as well.

I remember when I was in labor with Cade.

It got to point that I found myself thinking that if the contractions could stop for just 10 seconds so that I could get 1 deep breath then I would be okay.

They didn't stop.

But we both made it through.

I found myself thinking the same thing as the tears flowed for my dad. That all I wanted to do was escape. For just one minute. Just to breath.

It was then that it occurred to me. Even though it hurt... a lot. I was not holding this burden alone. The Savior completely and wholly understood.

He had walked that path and was now walking it with me.

I could breath.

How thankful I am that He didn't just take the pain away, although I wished for it.

In these short yet eternal 7 days I have learned more about the Lord, His gospel, and myself than I could have ever imagined.

I am sure there are more tears to be cried. More aches to feel. More sleepless nights.

However, now I understand, even more than I did before, that we are not expected to hurt alone.

He is there.

Arms wide open.

All we must do is turn to Him.

It might still hurt.

But we will NEVER be alone.

Our unexpected journey begins

2010-04-09T14:21:00.000-07:00

I am tired.

Not very often am I at a loss for words, however at them moment all I can say is I am tired.

My family has been living in a bit of a shock wave this past week.

My dad, who just turned 50, who has been healthy, active, and as good as could be was just diagnosed with colon cancer.

When he called to break the news I didn't know what to say. It didn't seem real. He seemed hopeful that it could most likely be taken care of with surgery. Not fun but doable.

My sister had a meltdown. I did not.

We made it through the next few days and the phrase, "my dad has cancer" sunk it and became part of life. I felt hopeful, optimistic, and didn't allow it to rock my world too much.... until yesterday.

The morning after his CT scan my parents called and asked me to conference call my sister. At that moment I wanted to say "no," hang up the phone, and live in the little hopeful box I had created for myself. However, that was not possible.

Once Alli made it on the phone my dad broke the news. The cancer had spread. Far. It had made it to his bladder, liver, and one lung.

Although he was strong, I was a puddle. The tears came. I had a melt down. My sister did not. I once again had no words... only tears.

How could this happen? He fits none of the profiles for this disease. He has taken amazing care of himself. He is young. He is MY dad. Things like this just don't happen.

After the phone call ended all I could do was stare. Stare and wonder, "what now?"

Cade saw my tears and told me it would be okay as he snuggled on my lap. Beckam held my hand all day. I was not alone and was so thankful for the numbness that eventually enveloped me.

I spent the day trying to understand how accepting the Lords will and having unwavering faith in miracles could really be connected and not just independent concepts. How can I be obedient to the Lord and His will but yet have faith that He can heal my dad? It wasn't meshing in my head.

I cried and prayed. Prayed and cried. Read and cried. Cried and read.

In the end I still cannot exactly wrap words around the Peace and understanding the Lord has blessed me with thus far. I know that I am at the beginning, in a small way, to understanding the atonement on an even more personal level.

Understanding how much the Lord loves us.

How well He knows us.

What His plan is for us.

How He will bless us.

We might not understand but one day we will.

All we can do is have faith in Him, hope that things will be okay, and go to work taking care of others, charity.

Throughout my life, whenever things have been heavy, overwhelming, or difficult my dad would give me a little pep talk and then tell me to wrap a blanket tight around myself and pretend that it was his big strong arms giving me a big hug. It always made me feel better.

At this moment, my blanket is wrapped around him.

The Saviors arms are wrapped around me.

We will make it. We will continue to press forward with faith. We are sealed as a family and will be together forever, with our arms tight around each other.

I love you daddy. I will always be your baby girl.

You can do it. You are the strongest guy I know.

xoxo

Lesson Learned...

2010-03-28T19:03:00.000-07:00

Never tell a 4-year-old a secret until you are ready for the world to know.

I knew that.

Jared did not.

Cade was told the secret.

It stayed quiet for about 1 day.

So it is time to spill the beans...

On November 20, Cade will have to build one more person for our lego family.

We all are really excited and are already trying to guess if it is a boy or girl!

But now I need to go take a nap because trying to get a 4-year-old to stay quiet is exhausting!

Leprechaun Day

2010-03-17T22:15:00.000-07:00

A sneaky little Leprechaun visited our house this morning and left some surprises behind. The boys started the morning off with Green pancakes, Green eggs, Green milk, and "golden" banana coin slices. Beckam wasn't too sure what to do with the green eggs but they both pounded the milk all day because well... it was GREEN! They then headed off to a Green bubble bath because that silly little leprechaun "ran through the tub and made the water turn green."

The boys had a ball and were so excited about this days celebration that we decided to take Jared a green leprechaun snack. We arrived at the office with a green apple, green yogurt, green sobe drink and green junior mints.

The boys played outside all day long. It is finally so beautiful out doors and the boys have taken full advantage of the weather. They no longer play guns, football, lacrosse, light-savers, good guy/bad guy, baseball, and army inside.... they just haul it all outside.

After playing we were surprised with green frosted cupcakes from Jared.

Beckam preferred to lick the frosting and poke the cake...

Whereas Cade just inhaled the whole thing.

All in all we had a great St. Pattys day full of green surprises.

I have realized how much fun celebrating all the holidays can be with little ones around and I look forward to many more years of green pancakes and Leprechaun hunts.

Happy St Patrick's day!

Sugar Rush

2010-02-28T20:29:00.001-08:00

Although Valentines day passed over a week a go I am pretty sure my boys are just now coming off of their sugar high. The Valentine celebrations began with making sugar cookies.... lots of them. Cade decided that he wanted to take pink, frosted sugar cookies to hand out as his valentines this year. I was really excited about it because it has been forever since I have made sugar cookies... chocolate chip I could make with my eyes closed but sugar cookies... that is a whole different world. The first batch I made was a bust so I tossed them out and pulled out my guaranteed sugar cookie recipe... my moms.

Cade was so excited to see them all frosted and with the kids names on them. He went to town with the "sprinklers" as he calls them and proudly took them to school.

Once he made it home from school and tore through his valentines and Becakm tore up Cades valentine bag, Cade excitedly went to town decorating his own cookie.

He had so much fun and caked the frosting on... thus the beginning of the never ending sugar high.

Beckam loved his cookie too and would not let go of it until every last crumb, of his and Cades, was gone.

We had fun family valentine activities all weekend. I made strawberry banana french toast and eggs for breakfast, we made valentines for each other, we all snuggled in bed, the boys got me cards, Jared took me out of a fantastic dinner, we had a fantastic time and enjoyed LOTS of candy and valentine treats.

And of course the valentine bakugans joined us where ever we went.

I am pretty sure that neither of the boys know exactly how they work or what they really do but both of them can be found with at least one of them in their possession at any given time.

We had a great Valentine holiday and I am thankful that I got to spend it with the 3 most important men in my life, even if it did include lots and lots of sugar.

I love you guys.

Now I am off to think about Easter baskets...

is there ever a holiday that doesn't require way too many treats...

I guess it wouldn't be a holiday if it didn't... right?

As much as I like seeing my dad...

2010-02-04T20:16:00.000-08:00

I kind of almost like seeing this smiling face more... and I think my dad would agree :)

I have been at a bit of a disconnect with my life these days.

I have not touched my camera.

Have not even thought about my blog.

And the gym... just makes me tired to think about it.

Honestly I have spent most of my time cuddled up with these two, which has been nice.

Beckam is my little singer. He is always humming, singing, or playing with the toy guitar or drums. He loves music. It makes me smile to see him because most of the time his lips are in an "o" {see above} with some type of melody coming out.

I was outside playing with the boys yesterday and had a flash back as I watched Beckam run around protecting his granola bar with his life. I realized that it was not that long ago that he was crawling around like a mad man and holding on to his apple with dear life. {above}

That flash back made me realize that he has gotten so big and I didn't even know it.

Can you believe that he has gotten so big?

He is not a baby any more.

Honestly, where does the time go?

He might not be as little anymore. And he might not be as blonde as he once was. But he is still as sweet and sassy as ever. And boy does he love to eat!

So it is time to jump back in. Time to get back in to the swing of life. And most of all time to realize my babies wont be babies for too much longer....

so maybe we should just stay all cuddled up.

Guess who is 50 today...

2010-01-16T17:29:00.000-08:00

Yep, can you believe it... this handsome guy is 50-years-old today.

Lucky ME... I get to call him MY Dad!!

Don't get too jealous... but seriously, you kind of should. He is AMAZING!

And are him and my mom not the CUTEST couple you have ever seen!?

There are definitely more of these pictures that I am dying to share but for now lets celebrate 50 years of life!!

Love you dad!

Side note: Jared's dad would have celebrated his 65th birthday today. What are the odds that both of our dads were born on the same day!?

Christmas in the Snow

2010-01-09T13:22:00.000-08:00

I have been looking forward to Christmas for a LONG time.... I think that our whole family has. Cade loved pulling the rings off of his paper chart he made at school(even if that meant more than 1 ring a day was "accidently" ripped off), Beckam loved looking for Buddy the elf every morning, I couldnt wait to see my family, and Jared was looking forward to a much needed break from the craziness of life.

We loaded up the car...jam packed the car really... and headed out to Utah. We told my family we wouldn't be in until the wee hours of Christmas morning so I was brimming with excitement to surprise them early. We were all happy and smoothly sailing... until we hit Beaver... Dang Beaver.

Jared and I were just about to switch driving duties when I heard him mutter and pull over. I looked in the mirror and my heart sank... police lights. The police officer came to the passenger side of the car and started to lay into Jared. I was totally baffled that the officer was on such a power trip and neither of us had even said a word. We did as he asked, some nicer than others, and waited for him to come back. He found a few other issues to exhort his authority, handed over the paperwork and then started back to his car. I was SO irritated that he had been so mean and did everything in my power not to slap the guy. As we walked away I said, "Merry Christmas," and started to roll up the window. He then, TURNED BACK around and made Jared get out of the car to "talk about issues". I was livid. They spent 30 minutes outside, in 11 degree weather, Jared without a coat, so that the officer could continue his power trip. I may or may not have gotten out of the car and told him we was being ridiculous... Once the officer was done scolding Jared for saying that he was "a good mormon boy from provo" he (the officer) grabed some plastic badges out of the police car and brought them to the boys. Using a nice, friendly, I am the good guy tone. I hate Beaver...

Needless to say we listened to Cade for the next 2 hours talk about being a good guy. He would stick out his chest with his badge on it and say, "look, I am a police officer. I am a good guy!"

Anyway...

Once we made it to Salt Lake the party started. My mom was near tears and my dad was speechless when we walked in... the tears happen often the speechlessness does not. It was so exciting and I could barely wait for the morning to arrive.

Cade was so excited that Santa had come. Everything was an excitement to him... even opening underwear made him jump for joy. (It did help that they were transformers)

Beckam wasn't too sure what to make of it all. He mostly followed Cades lead but didn't understand that he had his own boxes to open... he just wanted to open Cades.

Cade was pretty pumped about his star wars costume that a very clever Santa picked up after Halloween for practically pennies. However, Santa seemed to out smarted when we realized he had grabbed a boys Large rather than a small like he thought. Oops... it will last for a long time :)

Beckam was beyond excited about his bouncy ball and football. He did not put them down all morning. Once he had the balls he was not interested in any other gift. So much for wrapping all of them.

Cade practiced being a Jedi all morning. Pretty sure all of us got hit at one time or another "accidently."

Beck spent the morning in his football stance saying "down, set, hike" and then running in circles dodging everything in his way.

Beck also got a pretty sweet ride that I am not sure if he or Cade was more excited about.

Cade-o got his Leapster and has gone through 3 sets of batteries already.

After the gifts were all done we headed to the kitchen for some traditional buttermilk pancakes for breakfast... There might have been a diet coke or 2 enjoyed by everyone except me. I really do need to catch onto the craze...

Cade passed on breakfast... due to the ridiculous amount of candy he consumed while opening presents and headed out to the snow. The whole drive to Utah he kept asking me if we were going to "the sunny Utah or the snowy Utah." All he could talk about was making a snow angel.

My mom got the grandkids matching jammies. She was so excited to put them on the boys and had talked about it for weeks. The boys were rather happy to be nice and snuggly and really enjoyed just being together. Beckam couldn't get enough of Maddux and just wanted to squeeze him. Which I cannot say I blame him... look at those cheeks... so squeezable.

We had a fantastic Christmas. It was so nice to be together as a family, to relax, to eat, to laugh, to enjoy. We couldn't have asked for anything more.

One

2009-12-08T15:13:00.000-08:00

It was one minute ago he crawled up and snuggled on my lap.

It was one hour ago I heard him talking to himself in bed, after a nice long nap.

It was one day ago he covered me in slobbery kisses while playing tag.

It was one week ago he fell asleep while on a 4-wheeler ride through the snow.

It was one month ago he started insisting on doing "big boy" stuff on his own.

It was one year ago that our lives changed forever... because of his surgery.

How thankful I am for the journey we had to travel and even more thankful that time truly heals all wounds. I feel honored to be his mommy and to have learned from his silent strength.

If you were not here with us on our journey of craniosynostosis you can read more about it here, here and here.

And if you were here for the journey thank you for your love, support, prayers, and words of encouragement. We couldn't have made it without you.

I love my little Beckam and know that this experience was one that not only changed his life forever but many, many others as well.

We love you our little Beckam and are so thankful for you!

*yes, I did rewrite this post. The previous one just did not sit right with me and do the whole situation justice. It was truly an uplifting journey with little moments of heartache not one of complete despair and desperation. We truly felt the arms of the Lord around us the entire time and feel blessed to have had this entire experience.

Seriously...

2009-11-30T23:20:00.000-08:00

Can I ever get them both to smile at the same time....

Nope.

Gotta love brotherly "love"

Cade Originals

2009-11-11T00:37:00.000-08:00

-Cade was playing a game on Jared's phone. He won. He took the phone to Jared and said, "look dad, I won!!" Jared says, "Wow Cade, that is great!" Cade responds, " I know.... I am just awesome."

-We were playing memory and it was Cades turn. I look at him and say, "now think really hard because I know that you know where some matches are." He looks and me and says, "I know mom, I am just thinking about them in my smart brain."

-We were on our way out the door, a little late, to preschool. I had already gotten Beckam in the car and turned around to see Cade still on the sidewalk. He was drawing something and so I called to him and told him to hurry. Once he made it to the car I asked him what he had been doing. He said, "I was drawing X's on the ground so if anyone wanted to know they would know where to find me." When I made it back home, sure enough, there were X's all the way from the car to our front door.

-Cade has PJ's that have a shark on the shirt. He pulled them out the other day and informed me that he would be wearing them to a sleepover with his cousins because, "they would totally freak out if they saw his shark."

-It was snack time and I asked Cade what he would like to eat. He thought for a moment and then informed me that I would need to guess what he wanted. He said, "I will give you a clue. It is round and sounds like muffin." I replied, "would you like a banana muffin." His eyes light up, he points at me and says, "that is correct!!"

-Cade told me a fib and I said to him, "Cade, we do not lie." He looked at me smugly and said, "But we can trick and I was just tricking."

Check it out!

2009-11-06T22:48:00.000-08:00

Now is your chance to win some SUPER cute Christmas cards... honestly, does it get much better!?

My cute sister is having a give-a-way that you do not want to miss.

Check it out... you wont be sorry!

Halloween Surprise

2009-11-02T21:10:00.000-08:00

Halloween brought something different to me this year. Among all the screams, guts, ghosts, and monsters I found something unexpected... love. I have always loved my boys... adored them really, however I had also, unknowingly, fallen into a "tasking" mode. I had all my balls up in the air. All my duties, chores, and errands were lined up and checked off by the end of the day. Even though I might have been productive and I still loved my babies at the end of the day, I never realized how much I had missed... until I got sick. This past week I picked up some type of stomach bug. I was so sick, so tired, so dizzy and so consequently I spent a lot of time laying down. Literally being on the boys level allowed to spend more "slow" time with them. Time that I heard their tender words, their funny jokes, their witty comments, their new found words. Time that I saw their smiles, their new found independence, their growing understanding. Time that I felt their slobbery kisses, their big bear hugs, and their snuggles.

I have read many blogs over the past few years and have come across a couple of moms who would gush about how much they love their kids. Something that, honestly, kind of bugged me a bit. I didnt know if it was because I thought they were painting too "rosey" of a picture or if it was because I felt a tad bit guilty, I am not sure. However, something clicked inside of me this halloween season. As I spent this unrushed, uninterrupted time with my boys I started to realize how much fun they were. I found myself having more funny stories rather than frustrations. More laughs than time outs. More yeses than nos. And it was as we were walking the dark halloween streets, begging for candy, it donned on me... I am totally in love with these boys.

Are there still days that they make me crazy... yes.

Are there days that I am ready to turn in my "mom badge"... absolutely.

But am I totally in love with them... without a doubt.

How thankful I am to have realized, even if it was a little late, that their childhood is not coming back so I must enjoy it now. Now is the time to sit down and play games. Now is the time to roll the ball back and forth. Now is the time to listen because I will miss it if I don't take the time. Now is the time to soak them in.

(Bumblebee Transformer)

Halloween was great. Full of candy, candy, candy. I got to take the boys trick or treating. Cade would go as quick as he could from house to house and then stop to have a "candy break." Beckam insisted on walking. It took him FOREVER to get from house to house but he would get SO excited once he made it to the door. He would smile, speak some kind of gibberish, and then wave goodbye. He could make it for about 5 houses until he would just plop down out of sheer exhaustion.

It was a good holiday full of treats for us all.

(Boxing champ)

Average who?

2009-10-13T19:19:00.000-07:00

Went to the doctor for the boys yearly check ups.

Cade 4 years

Height- 42 inches (75%) He jumped up and said "yes! I am getting so big!" when the nurse told him how tall he was.

Weight- 39.5 pounds (75%)

Beckam 15 months

Height- 32 inches (50%)

Weight- 25 pounds (50%)

Head circumference- 48cm (50%)

(and finally walking)

All I would like to know is who the heck are they measuring to get their percentiles because Cade is not a 75% and Beckam is definitely not a 50%....

have you held the kid!?

They both had to face the mean nurse with the shots. Beckam was quickly calmed with a sucker afterwards. Cade on the other hand... well he is still nursing his "wounds" when it is convenient (i.e. chore time, bed time, and when there are no friends to play with) I guess milk the sympathy as long as you can, right.

2 Stories and Lots of pictures

2009-10-03T20:52:00.000-07:00

The other day Beckam somehow got an apple out of the fridge (Cade claims Beckam did it by himself however I think he was assisted by a certain someone) and went to town. He chowed on that apple as if he had never eaten before and was as protective of it as a mother bear. I could not resist the urge to pull out the camera and capture all the little details of his 15 months.

Just as I was "admiring" his "I can walk but am too stubborn to" legs. (yes, my 15 month old still prefers to crawl. ugh!)

I hear Cade start yelling for me in the house. Since that is a common occurrence in our house I did not feel too urgent about it. Until...

I saw him come tearing out the door saying, "mom, you have got to come quick and see this!" I ask him what is wrong and he starts spewing out details having to do with a hotdog, the microwave, and a big bang.

I couldn't help but smile/shake my head. As I entered the house I immediately smell hotdog. Cade runs to the microwave and says, "see mom, see mom, it blew up!" Apparently he had taken his hunger into his own hands for the 10 minutes I was outside and gotten a hotdog for himself. Minor detail: microwave and not knowing his large numbers. Sure enough... it burst. All over. yum.

Beckam didn't mind though. He had his apple. He got every penny out of it.

This morning we headed out for some mini races at the Rec center.

Needless to say Cade was pumped and took "fire up your engines" rather seriously. As soon as "go" was said he took off and peddled as fast as his little legs would go.

He took first place in a few races and tied a few others. It was really fun to watch him think he was in the Indianapolis 500.

Way to go bud.

There is nothing like being a mom of 2 boys.

Christmas Bells are Ringing...

2009-09-28T23:35:00.000-07:00

It is that time of year again...

Time to Enjoy.

Time to Celebrate.

Time to spread Cheer.

Go ahead and check

... Family Photos and Christmas Cards...

off your "to do" list before the season even starts.

Pass the word along

and

let the Celebrations begin!

[don't delay. sessions are limited.]

I am alive

2009-09-23T10:30:00.001-07:00

I made it. I am home. My head is chuck full of ideas, dreams, and aspirations. I had a wonderful time but forgot how exhausting it is to learn... lots. Lots to share but for now you can click on over to my photography blog and take a little peek at the beauties I got to work with. I know... I am lucky!!

Stretch

2009-09-15T23:11:00.000-07:00

I found myself thinking today... not always the best thing. I have had this little problem since I was young... I get REALLY nervous about anything new. New job, new town, new situations, new school years (my mom seriously thought I was going to end up in home school my 7th grade year I was so nervous... seriously pathetic... I know) anything that I cannot figure out in my mind before hand makes me really anxious. I found those same nerves creeping around inside of me as I thought about my soon departure to Texas on Friday. I am fortunate enough to be attending a photography workshop. I get time to myself, time to learn something new, time to dedicate to something I love. However, it is also something that will be done not only in a completely new arena but done completely by myself... double whammy in my book. I have spent the afternoon giving myself a pep talk, trying to calm my nerves and allow the excitement and anticipation take its place. I was honestly feeling a bit sorry for myself... in a really lame kind of way.

However my perspective was greatly and unexpectedly changed in the most unlikely of places... a baseball diamond specked with 5 and 6, and one 4 year-old boys. We signed Cade up to play coach pitch baseball this season. One requirement, he plays a year up. I have been excited for him to be able to really play but a little nervous (go figure) because he would be by far the youngest and most inexperienced player. As we walked toward the diamond where all the boys had already started practicing Cade says, "mom, they are all way bigger than me!" Not wanting him to worry I said, "no they aren't Cadeo, don't worry about it." He looks up, smiles, says, "oh, okay," and runs out to join them... not a care in the world. I watched him get a little frustrated but only needing a kind reassurance from his dad to pump him back up.

I spent the remainder of practice with knots in my stomach. I didn't want him to feel inferior. I didn't want him to get frustrated. I didn't want him to get hurt. I didn't want him to be scared. I didn't want him to be nervous. I asked Jared several times, "was this such a good idea?" "Are you sure he shouldn't play with the kids his own age this year?" "Are you SURE this is a good idea." Each time he calmly reminded me not to worry. I still bit my fingernails every time it was Cade's turn to hit or catch.

Once practice was over I stood by the dugout and watched my little 4-year-old come in with a smile. I listened as they talked amongst themselves, one said, "I am 6," and another boy responds, "I am 6 too!" and Cade enthusiastically adds, "I am 4!" I smile to see that the only time Cade is the same height as the other boys is when they are sitting and he was standing.

It was in those moments that I realized this is what life is all about, being stretched. This is what I want for my children, to become better, to reach higher, to push harder. It is just sometimes hard for a mommy to sit back and watch it happen. Even though, most of the time, I feel more stress, worry, and heartache for them than they do for themselves. I realized that the worry I felt for myself became so insignificant and paled in comparison for what I felt for my child. However, my child, the one I love so much, the one who could have felt so inferior, the one who really pushed the comfort barriers... just went for it. He didn't look back. He didn't dwell on the nerves. He didn't allow worry to hold him back. He believed in himself and just did it.

So, here I sit not only determined to cherish this lesson but to put it into action. If Cade can do it so can I. This is why we are here... right. To be stretched. To reach higher. To push harder. To become better.

So, wish me luck... I am off to stretch.

Why do I Love Them....

2009-09-04T21:00:00.000-07:00

...how can you not...

...seriously?

Imprinted on my Heart

2009-08-31T20:46:00.000-07:00

{yes, this is a VERY old picture... but it works}

My heart was imprinted tonight with a memory, an understanding, an insight that will be there throughout the eternities.

I had the honor and opportunity to watch and listen to my sweet husband give our little man a blessing before his first day of school. I was always fortunate enough to receive a fathers blessing before the beginning of a new school year, when confronting a problem, or just when I needed a little extra guidance and direction.

In a Priesthood blessing a servant of the Lord exercises the Priesthood, as moved upon by the Holy Ghost, to call upon the powers of heaven for the benefit of the person being blessed. In a blessing a worthy priesthood holder speaks the words of God, he gives the direction of God, he explains the love of God, he pronounces the blessings of God.

Although I have been a recipient of many of theses blessings, none have left the print on my heart as the one I witnessed tonight. My heart was filled with an overwhelming amount of love as I listened to the sweet and simple counsel given to my son. "Teach the other kids about Jesus by the way that you share." "Be a good friend to all those in your class, even if they look different than you." "You will continue to learn how to become a missionary as you are a good listener, good helper, and good friend."

As the blessing came to an end I watched as Cade looked up at Jared and threw his arms around him. My heart burst and the memory sunk deep into my heart and soul as I watched Jareds silent tears and heard him say, "you are my best buddy. You will always be my best buddy. I am so proud of you." I knew that in a few short years that scene would once again play out in front of my eyes. However, it will not be as a 4-year-old boy leaves to preschool, it will be as a 19-year-old preparing man leaves on his mission. A mission to share the good news of Christ. A mission that will change him from a boy to a man. A mission that will break my heart to send him on but also make me burst with joy. A mission that will share the truth.

As I watched a father and son embrace I was once again reminded of so many levels of love. The love I have for my child. The love my child has for his daddy. The love our Father in Heaven has for each of us.

Although life gets rough, children get exhausting, finances gets overwhelming, time gets shorter and lists get longer there is nothing.... NOTHING greater than knowing that God exists, He knows us, He is watching over us and mostly, He loves us. He loves us. He loves us. What an overwhelming, humbling, and empowering knowledge. To know that no matter how good, how bad, how ugly, in the end what really matters is that God loves us and that He will Always be there... waiting to embrace us. Waiting to say, "You are my buddy. You will always be my buddy. I am so proud of you."

It Seems like Yesterday

2009-08-23T23:14:00.000-07:00

It seems like yesterday that Jared and I found out that surprisingly our little family would go from 2 to 3.

It seems like yesterday I was watching my belly bounce up and down as he would roll around and kick.

It seems like yesterday that I was on the phone with Jared telling him that the baby was on his way.

It seems like yesterday that I held him in my arms and knew that his name was going to be Cade... even though I didn't want to admit that Jared had won his choice.

It seems like yesterday that I was scared to death to bring him home from the hospital because I had no idea what to do next.

It seems like yesterday that I gazed into his eyes and sang, "I am a child of God" over and over.

It seems like yesterday that Jared and I spent hours just looking at him. In complete awe that he was ours.

It seems like yesterday that I could wrap him up snugly and just rock him.

However, in reality... it was just yesterday that he turned 4.

Where does the time go?

I love you my sweet Cade. You have changed my life forever.

Thank you.

xoxo

So, I started off tonight thinking I was the coolest mom ever...

2009-08-07T22:41:00.000-07:00

Friday night and we decide to spend some quality time with the kiddos. Star Wars: Clone Wars is playing in the outdoor theater and so we assume the boys, or Cade, would be enraptured with the light savers, droids, shooting, and action.

We show up with our favorite blankets, yummy ice cream with all the toppings and all the excitement you can muster out of a 3-year-old... that is A LOT for mine. We grab the last open spot in the back and settle in.

10 minutes into our experience I start to panic and think that the movie is actually Mary Poppins. I figure I would give it a few minutes and see if Cade catches on. Just as that thought finishes he looks at me and, loudly, says, "HEY, this ISNT star wars!" I tell him that I knew that and that I think that I might have made a mistake.

15 minutes into the experience... Phew! Just a VERY LONG preview. Cade smiles, "You DIDNT make a mistake mom!! I am so proud of you!" Movie starts.

1 minute into the movie. Cade is humming, loudly, the Star Wars theme music and cheering with all the other boys in the crowd, "Star Wars is SOOOO cool!"

3 minutes into the movie. Ice cream gone.

5 minutes into the movie. Off to get some popcorn.

6 minutes into the movie. Popcorn spilled.

10 minutes into the movie. More popcorn.... gone.

20 minutes into the movie. Cade thinks that he is a Jedi knight. He is swinging his pretend light saver. Making gun noises, why can boys always make those noises!? and totally into the movie. I really am the coolest.

23 minutes into the movie. Beckam is screaming that he cannot push some ladies stroller around. Okay, its all good. We are outside. We don't have to be quiet the WHOLE time.

Getting irritated looks.

27 minutes into the movie. Jared takes Beckam for a walk.

28 minutes into the movie. Cade cries that he did not get to go with Jared. What was I thinking!!

35 minutes into the movie. All is settled. Cade is once again interested in the movie.

38 minutes into the movie. Cade is bored. I see families starting to pack up and leave. They are the smart ones!

40 minutes into the movie. Cade finds a friend. sweet little girl. they play. they laugh. they entertain each other. Okay, maybe this was an okay idea.

43 minutes into the movie. Another friend finds Cade. nice little boy. they both think they are jedis. they pretend to have light savers. they are not very good at not "accidently" hitting each other.

44 minutes into the movie. They are on the ground wrestling. Seriously, what is it with boys and wrestling!

45 minutes into the movie. he is really going to hurt that boy! Cade is back on the blanket with us.

47 minutes into the movie. They are all playing tag. We ask Cade to be a little bit more quiet. Jared looks at me and asks why our child is SO loud. Hmmmm, have you met his dad?

50 minutes into the movie. We remind Cade to be quiet, for the 10th time.

52 minutes into the movie. Beckam is eating all the popcorn that people have spilled on the ground. Gross!

55 minutes into the movie. Boys are on the ground brawling again.

56 minutes into the movie. Cade is back on the blanket. Has he even watched any of this movie!?

60 minutes into the movie. Tag... again. Cades first friend is now playing with Beckam. she is so sweet. this is such a long movie!

65-80 minutes into the movie. Brawling. blanket. brawling. blanket. brawling. blanket.

83 minutes into the movie. Cade is back on the blanket. somehow his attention was pulled back into the movie. Beckam is trying so hard to go to sleep. Just let this movie end already. do they really expect kids to get this movie!?

90 minutes into the movie. We are all excitedly humming the theme song to Star Wars. Cade says, "that was the best movie ever!"

In the end, was I the coolest mom ever? maybe. maybe not.

Could I have gotten away with turing on a cartoon for 30 minutes and sending them to bed? probably.

Would I be able to laugh at our experience of "going to a movie" if we didn't go. nope.

Was it worth it? maybe.

Will we do it again next week? probably.

Moms really do a lot to be cool for a 3-year-old.

Cade Originals

2009-08-02T22:16:00.000-07:00

-Cade decided that he was supposed to be in charge of Beckam. He informed me of this decision and then says, "but here is the plan mom. When he is crying I am NOT in charge but when he is not crying I AM in charge. Okay? That is the plan."

-We were at the store and I got Cade some pool toys and a swimming suit. After our shopping trip Cade looks at me and says, "mom, I am REALLY having fun with you!" Note to self: if you want Cade to have fun you must buy him things.

-Cade loves to wear his life jacket in the pool. I tried to get him to take it off and practice swimming with me the other day. He looked at me and said, "no mom, if I take it off and go in the water I will drain."

-We were in the doctors office waiting for the doctor. Cade pulled up the doctors rolling stool and says, "hello, I am the doctor and I am going to measure Beckam today." I smile and say, "okay doctor." Cade pretends to hold up a measuring tape to Beckam and then says, "yep, just about right. He is 6 feet strong."

- Cade was coloring while I was trying to get Beckam ready for the day. Beck was being particularly wiggly while I was trying to comb his hair and I said, "wow, Beckam, you are making this really hard." Cade quickly turns from his coloring and says, "its okay mom, we can switch spots. I will comb Beckams hair and you can color. Just stay in the lines, okay?"

-Jared headed out the door to work one morning and Cade took off after him, wearing just his underwear, and says, "hey dad, when you come home will you bring Harry, Ben, and Chandler (his cousins) with you?" Jared says, "sure bud, and how about I come home at 4 so we can play too." Cade gets a huge smile on his face and says, "how about 6 dad!?" Jared laughs and says, "sure I will be home by 6." To which Cade jumps up and down and says, "YES! You are the best dad!"

-Cade cracks me up because when he gets excited or is happy about something he will say, "yes!" and sounds just like Napoleon Dynamite. It is hilarious!

-We were at Costco and I was standing in line waiting to get the boys a churro. Cade and Beckam were a few feet from me in the basket. I soon hear Cade yell at the top of his lungs, "Mom, you rock!" while giving me thumbs up.

-He has been in swimming lessons. One afternoon before we left he grabbed his goggles and put them on. He likes them SUPER tight, with his eyes bugging out and his ears smooshed. He runs into the bathroom and stands with his hands on his hips, his head held high, and his shoulders back and says, "Hey, I look cool like Michael Phelps!"

-We were saying family prayers and I said, "we are thankful for Cade and all the joy he brings." I soon hear Cade loudly whispering, "mom.... mom.... moooommm... I am not a droid! Mom.... I am NOT a droid" I bust up laughing and quickly end the prayer. Cade then quickly jumps up, looks at me with a side ways smile, points his finger at me and says, "you are so silly mom, you thought I was a star wars droid!" I told him I said Joy not Droid and he says, "no, you called me a droid, silly!"

Q&A... but mostly Q's

2009-07-21T23:51:00.000-07:00

Growing up mom always had all the answers...

-What are we having for dinner.... spaghetti.

-Where is my white shirt.... in the laundry.

-Do I really have to go to school today... absolutely.

-Why am I having such a bad day... check your attitude.

-What can we do this weekend... babysit.

-I need a job.... check out Cracker Barrel... (yes, I did get a job there. Ugh!)

-How do I do this math problem... go ask dad.

-I really don't want to study.... lets make a game out of it. (One of the most hilarious and fun studying experiences ever)

All of the questions, dilemmas, quandaries, and difficulties of youth she always had an answer or solution for. I guess I kind of figured that it came with the territory however, now as a mom I often find myself with only having an "I don't know" answer.

-Last time I checked I lived in the desert, so why is it SO humid... I have no idea.

-What is for dinner... Dinner? I have to make dinner again... wasn't last night enough?

-Mom, where are my shoes.... I don't know, where did you take them off?

-Where in the world is Beckams binki... No clue.

-How do all of these couples take vacations together? How do they find the money, time, and babysitters to go.... tried to figure that one our many times and still... I DON'T know!

-Why do you take your kids out to a "fun" breakfast at IHOP only to hear them cry about not being able to go to Mcdonalds... seriously, no idea! (yes, that DID happen this morning)

-How is it that your kids can drive you crazy and make you laugh all at the same time... not sure, but good thing for them... and me.

-How do you fit a growing family in a 2 bedroom condo... hmmm, tricky, but supposedly others have done it.

-How exactly do you entertain little boys in 110 degree weather.... running out of ideas... and money!

-Why is it that I only end up in pictures without makeup on... once again, don't know.

So, in the end I guess I have come to accept the fact that even as a mom I don't even come close to having all the answers. Apparently mom mom didn't either, but she sure faked it well. I guess that is the beauty of kids being young... they don't know that you are clueless.

What are you clueless about... hopefully I am not the only one!

And any answers are welcome too...

Happy "B"elated Birthday

2009-07-17T14:10:00.001-07:00

I had great plans of having a fantastic shoot of this little guy eating cake. I have thought about and planned it for over a year now. However, although I made preparations things did not pan out as planned. I had wanted to wait to post his "12 month" milestones until I had the pictures but at this rate... he will be 15 before I get it done. So, will I admit that second kids totally get gypped... absolutely!

Beckam is such a little love. He is the tender child that I have been waiting for. He brings so much peace and contentment to our home. Beckam has been good to soften Cade up and Cade has been good to strengthen Beckam.

So here it is Beck-

12 Months

-You love to flirt. You will talk, squeal, smile, and do whatever it takes to get people to notice and fall in love with you.

-You love to pull things out of drawers and cupboards. You also love to push the button on the water cooler and watch it ALL come spilling out. Thank heavens for child proof locks!

-You finally started crawling the right way... a few days before your birthday.

-You love to sleep... still. However, you have to have your blanket to give up easily or else you fight it to the bitter end.

-You hate being in your car seat for an extended period of time.

-You are finally starting to eat better. You went through a phase when you would only eat oatmeal, yogurt, and fruit. You have now expanded your palate... thank heavens!

-You have a piercing, ear shattering, stop the world scream. You sound like a 12-year-old girl. But hey, when you have an almost 4-year-old brother you have to have something to keep you alive!

- Your giggle is contagious.

-You love to snuggle. You will snuggle with anyone and everyone that is willing.

-At church you love to sprawl out in the middle of the hall and just lay there and jabber.

- You absolutely love the water and honestly think that you can swim. It is a little scary how willing you are to crawl to the edge, turn around, and plop yourself in. If you could spend the whole day in the pool you would.

-You always head for the stairs. You love to go up and down and are really good about turning around and doing it the right way.

-You love to give kisses. You will plant one right on our mouth (usually with yours open and slobbery) and then you will say "kisses" in a high voice.

-You always have comments on your hair... it seems to be your trade mark. Whenever you see the spray bottle coming your way, to have your hair combed, you hold your breath and cover your face, even if it isn't your turn to have your hair done.

-You love your brother. He can always make you happy and you love to follow him around.

-You are starting to get some more teeth which equals misery for you.

-You will pull yourself to standing on everything. You have taken a few steps in the pool and like to hold onto strollers to try to walk but you will not stand on your own.

-You love anything that you can feed to yourself. Watermelon is one of your favorites, however you usually opt to eat the rind first.

-You are starting to show a little sassy streak. It is kind of sad but kind of funny at the same time. You are definitely finding your own independence.

-At the doctor you

measured 31 inches

weighed 23.2 pounds

measured 47 cm head circumference

-You love to try and drink the water at the sprinkler park. You will sit in the middle where all the water runs to and try to lick it off the ground. Gross!

-You are a sensitive soul and can have your feelings hurt easily. However, you can quickly turn the tears into laughter and hugs.

-You can turn anyones bad, grumpy mood around by a simple hug, especially your daddy.

-Your favorite toy are our cell phones. You love to eat them, slobber on them, and yell into them.

-You wear size 18-24 months.

-You have buns of steal and big fat bear paws for feet.

-You will always grab for peoples noses first.

-You race to the door when daddy gets home from work. If he does not hug you first your feelings get hurt until he picks you up for hugs.

-You are so ticklish....every where.

We love you our little Beckam and are SO thankful to have you in our family. You have made us so happy and we are so proud of you. Happy Birthday little guy!

These 3 made my parents Grandparents

2009-07-06T23:15:00.000-07:00

and they couldn't be happier. My little sister had her cute baby 7 weeks ago and confirmed the fact that we all already knew... my mom and dad would be the best grandparents ever. My dad was in Utah when we went to visit and he took Cade and Beckam out for "junior alpha kid day" and I am not sure who had more fun, the boys or him. Cade could not get enough of him. They ate doughnuts together, they fixed the sprinkler together, they told stories together, they went to home depot together, they ate crown burger together. I never had to wonder where Cade was.

And as you can also see... we only do boys... go figure! My mom and dad had to wait for their last 2 kids to have boys but now have been bombarded by testosterone!

Speaking of grandparents...

I also got to spend time with My grandparents. I honestly lived a charmed childhood complete with amazing grandparents. I spent many memorable moments with my grandma and grandpa and still look forward to the time that I get to see them. They are so wonderful and such good examples to me. I love you two!

We are back... for now

2009-06-30T00:54:00.000-07:00

I have been so out of touch with the world these past few weeks. I spent 4 days at girls camp with no phone service and then went straight to California where the service was patchy and I had no computer. So not only do I have laundry, cleaning, and phone calls to catch up on but all of the "important" computer stuff too.

So here is a quick recap before we head off to Utah for the 4th.

We had a fantastic time at the beach with Jareds family. Minus the 4 hour drive turning into about 7 hours with a screaming baby added into the mix the trip went relatively smoothly.

We played in the sand.

Jared built a rather cool sand castle, that did not get photographed because the tide got to it first... bummer! He was really proud of it though!

We ate sand... well some of us did anyway.

Beckam preferred to eat the sand rather than build with it... He especially loved the rocks and seaweed... Gross! I love that you can see sand on his nose and around his mouth in this picture. That was basically him all week.

We rode rides at Disney.

Beckam loved the merry-go-round and Cade braved Space Mountain. I do not think he will EVER go on a roller coaster again but I was really proud of him and had a fun time watching him be brave.

We ate cake.

We celebrated Beckams birthday on the morning we left because we were going, going, going every other moment there. He loved his cake and had no fear digging right in.

We took naps.

Cade played so hard that he actually fell asleep on the beach several times. We are still working on catching up on sleep but definitely made the most of every moment.

We played in the water.

I am pretty sure that Cade was wet more than he was dry. He did not care what he had on, as soon as he saw the water he was in it. The only thing he hated was having sand in his flip flops so needless to say he was barefoot most of the trip.

We had plain old fun.

We played games, we ate food, we walked the beach and the pier, we shopped, we laughed, we played jokes, we talked, we told stories, we enjoyed the beach, and the relaxation but most of all we enjoyed each other.

There are so many other stories and moments to share but as of now it is 1am and I am exhausted. So, for now this will have to do.

Thank you to our family for making this week so memorable and exciting. We cannot wait until next year when we get to do it again!

We love you all!

To be a Lady

2009-06-15T23:39:00.000-07:00

I honestly and truly should be in bed right now... I have to be up in 5 hours. However, here I sit typing away, go figure. Not much exciting is happening around here. We are definitely in the throws of summer complete with traveling, summer camps, swimming lessons and the such. I feel like life is one great big juggling act at the moment however I am so thankful that I have my sweet family there to help keep everything up in the air and working smoothly.

I cannot believe that Beckam will be 1 in a matter of days... baffling! Time goes by so quickly however at the same time it feels like it stands so still.

I have been working on a workshop that I will be teaching at girls camp this week. They asked me to teach about self presentation. I have allowed this topic to swirl around in my head and the thing that has become so apparent to me is how easy it is to allow clothes, attitudes, language, etc. to mask who we are and how we feel inside. How easy it is to get caught up in what is "in style," "popular," "normal," that we forget to hold on and stay true to who we really are on the inside, to allow US to shine through and not what others say should be presented.

In Proverbs it teaches that the price of a virtuous woman is far above rubies (proverbs 31:10) and then it continues on to say, "Strength and honor are her clothing; and she shall rejoice in time to come" (Proverbs 31:25). What a beautiful and inspiring teaching.

Strength and honor.

I want to be strong and honorable. Not only strong and honorable but a strong and honorable Woman. What an honor and a gift it is to be a woman.

We have the opportunity to partake of the many pleasures of the world. The Lord has given us many comforts, leisures, and perks of living in the modern day. Things that are fun and good to partake in. However, along with partaking it is in our hands to not allow ourselves to BE taken but to clothe ourselves in strength and honor. To avoid the distractions and still Present ourselves in a way that is becoming. In our dress, in our words, in our actions and then we will "rejoice in time to come."

What a blessing and an honor it is to know that God lives. To know that I am a daughter of Him. To know that it is a blessing to be a woman. To know that I can be strong and honorable at all times, in all things, and in all places.

What a joy.

Nothing like Rexburg

2009-06-10T12:09:00.000-07:00

I have been a bit MIA lately... and it is only the beginning! I had the amazing opportunity to go spend some time with my cute sister, her sweet husband, and my adorable, love able, kissable, little nephew, Maddux. Beckam and I flew to Rexburg and spent a fun, rainy, full of reminiscing weekend with them. Love you guys!

I will be home for a few days and then off to girls camp and then to California with Jared's family and then Utah for the 4th. Quite hectic but I am looking forward to it. Hopefully I will have more pictures and stories to post soon with the upcoming of my baby Beckam's first birthday, Cade's first talk in primary, Jared's journey with P90X and my attempt to figure out my new camera! Lots of firsts and lots of fun. So until then... enjoy this cute family that I get to call mine!

5 Years

2009-05-28T12:15:00.000-07:00

Yesterday marked our 5 year wedding anniversary.

This week has been an interesting week for me. The lesson that I have been preparing for young women's this weekend has been on temple marriage and I was also asked to be in a fashion show for Allyse's Bridal this Saturday, so needless to say I have had "marriage" on the mind.

I have gone back and forth trying to decide how to acknowledge this wonderful event in my life. I thought I could just share our story... but I am sure everyone that reads this blog already knows it.

Then I thought I could make a list of what I have learned being married for 5 years... but I just did a list.

Then I thought that I could list all the reasons I love my husband... but I did that already too.

As Jared and I sat last night and looked at our wedding album and read the notes that were written to us by those in attendance of our sealing I knew what I wanted to do. Honestly, that day was a blur, swirled with so much excitement, nerves (by some more than others), butterflies, kisses, and just out right love that I don't remember many of the words that were said, only the feelings. However, lucky for me my sweet sister-in-law had everyone write down what they remembered about the sealing. The sealer gave us some amazing advice that has always echoed in my mind and filled my heart with warm feelings. It is on every wedding anniversary that I get to once again connect those constant feelings with the familiar council that seems to fade through the year.

Our sealer counseled us with these wise words...

-Only shout if the house is burning and leave the pouting to the little ones. Don't shout or pout.

-Don't ever go to bed angry.

-It doesn't matter who is right only what is right.

-Don't shame or blame.

-You don't always get your way but you still get your say.

How blessed I feel to have been married in Gods holy temple and to know that I get to be with my sweet husband and our precious babies not only now but for forever. What an honor it is to be a wife and a mother.

I love you my sweet Jared and thank you for living your life in a way that allowed us to go to the temple together and seal our family for time and all eternity.

Happy Anniversary.

I love you.

"Surprise"

2009-05-21T23:09:00.000-07:00

Was what I heard when I turned around this morning and saw Cade standing in front of me. He continued with, "I got dressed all my by self, (all by myself), mom!" Not only did he get dressed all by himself but he also bathed himself, from start to finish. Thus using a whole bottle of shampoo because the "bubbles are so fun" according to him. However, despite the bubbles I was really proud of my little guy for being so independent. My favorite part....

...his one inside out, one right side out, red and blue striped socks with his shorts. You have to love that preschoolers just wear what they feel cool in, not what others tell them is cool. Love it!

30 Years Ago Today...

2009-05-19T23:08:00.000-07:00

The world changed forever.

These two little guys were placed in their parents arms and I am sure the doctors wished them luck.

As they grew they played together, they fought together(each other actually),

they laughed together, they got into mischief together...

They chased girls together, they broke hearts together,

they had hearts broken and healed together, they learned the ins and outs of life together...

They goofed around together, they tried to pick up on girls together,

they worked together, they supported and bagged on each other...

But in the end...

they changed the world together.

I feel so blessed to have these two guys in my life. When Jared and I got married the sealer said to me, before going into the sealing room, "you marry twins and it is like getting 2 husbands. You need double the food, you clean up double the mess but you also get double the laughs." I Have not been disappointed.

You two are amazing guys that I am blessed to call "my family." Growing up I always wanted a big brother and little did I know that I would get one that would be a carbon copy of my husband. Love you Josh.

Jared is my greatest hero, my best friend, and my rock. I am daily amazed at who he is and who he is continually becoming. I love you, my sweet.

Happy birthday to 2 of the most special guys in my life.

Glad you have each other.

Even more glad I have you.

Beckam: 11 months

2009-05-19T00:01:00.001-07:00

It really is that time again. My baby keeps getting bigger and bigger as time continues to go faster and faster. There are so many things we want to remember about you as your personality continues to burst with goodness and peace.

- You love everything with a light on it. You seem to find all the little corners that offer that excitement. The night lights, the DSL cable modem, the power strip light, the light that creeps in from under a door. You always find them and are amazed by it for a good amount of time.

-You still army crawl but only push off with one foot. Daddy calls it the "wounded solider crawl" It gets you to where you need to be and you are happy.

-You clap for everyone and are so proud of yourself when you do.

-You love to splash in the pool and try to stand on the steps.

-You are getting a little bit better at not freaking out when people leave the room.... kind of.

-You love to look at your reflection in the stainless steel garbage can. You will try and touch and talk to the baby looking back at you.

-You talk and babble all day long. Your favorite words- dada and Ba

-You love to snuggle and will snuggle with anyone who is willing to hold you.

-You sleep until usually 8:30 every morning but it isn't unusual for mommy to wake you up at 9:00am either.

-You will always snuggle up and let mommy hug you when you wake up.

-You are so silly about your food and we usually have to disguise your food with yogurt or cottage cheese.

-You absolutely love to try and drink from a cup. You get giddy and giggle when you see a cup coming your way.

-Your favorite toy at the moment is any one of Cades sippy cups. You don't get super excited about yours but you love Cades even though you don't know how to drink out of them.

-You have 7 teeth.

You can pull yourself to standing when you are in the tubby and it scares mommy to death.

-To sit yourself up you do the splits and walk your hands up. You are one of the most flexible babies I have ever met.

-You absolutely love fruit.

- When we lay you down to sleep you will pull your blanket over your head and put your legs straight up in the air.

-You are the biggest smile bug I have ever met.

We love you big guy!

Cade Originals

2009-05-07T11:11:00.000-07:00

-April 2009-

- We were driving in the car and Cade says, "mom, I am 6." I laughed and said, "no you aren't silly, you are 3." And he replies, "yeah, I know, but I was born to be 6."

-Jared came home from basketball and was sweaty and smelly. Cade ran up to give him a hug and stopped dead in his tracks and says, "whoa, bro...you stink!"

-I was feeding Beckam breakfast and had to put down the bowl and get something out of the sink. Once I turned back to give him another bite Cade was sitting next to him, shoving the spoon in Beckams mouth and then says, "Hey, check it out, I am helping!"

-After getting dressed for church on Sunday Cade ran into the bathroom, stood in front of the mirror, rubs his shirt and says, "Wow, I am looking sharp!"

-For easter the boys got some "sports eggs." They were little footballs, baseballs, and basketballs that come apart into 2 pieces. Cade has been playing with them for weeks. The other day he was in the tub with one of the baseballs and took it apart. He held both pieces up to his chest and says, "Hey look mom! I have chest-i-sas like you!"

-We pulled into the Costco parking lot and as soon as I turned off the car Cade unbuckled his seat belt and said, "lets rock and roll, baby!"

-Cade is ALWAYS singing "I like to movie it, move it" from Madagasgar. Usually at the top of his lungs in the middle of the store. He usually gets smiles... usually.

-We had music on the other day and I hear Cade call me from the other room. Once I got to where he was he says, "hey, check out these moves!" and starts to dance. It was great.

--I love you my little Cadeo. You always keep me smiling and laughing. You are truly one of a kind!

Take Me out to the Ball Game

2009-05-04T16:47:00.000-07:00

The days of early games, spraying and bleaching white pants, and cheering on "the Pirates" have officially entered my life. We have had so much fun watching Cade play T-ball. He honestly thinks he is the coolest kid when he is out on the field and is really pretty good at "staying in the game." Most of the kids on the team are playing in the grass or dirt within the first 15 minutes but Cade is right there chasing the balls down and dying to hit. The first game he was the last to hit so he got to run all the bases. He gets so excited and focused when he runs that he ran past the kids that were in front of him and once he hit home base he tuned to Jared and yelled at the top of his lungs, "HOME RUN, dad!!"

On Saturday the boys were waiting so patiently for their turn to bat. Cade insists, (really Jared insists), on using his own bat. All the boys were all in line talking about Cades bat and the next thing I knew they decided it was a gun and the boys were aliens....

...this is was what I saw next. They have such fun imaginations!

We have all loved T-ball, 8 am games and all, but most of all...

Cade has loved the treats!

As Cade would say...

2009-05-01T13:42:00.000-07:00

"Lets Rock and Roll!"

The time has come and I am officially open for business! Whohoo!

For the first month of getting started I will be running a promotion.

Sitting fee will be $60.00 for an hour(ish) session at an outdoor location of your choice. Newborns can be photographed inside.

While I am working on getting my previewing website up I will be including a CD with 10-15 pictures that you can have printed wherever you would like. I do have a printer that I like to send my pictures to and would be happy to work with you to get them printed there.

I am so excited to get going. There is nothing like looking through the lens. To see the smiles, to tears, the giggles, the hugs, the real life. It is amazing to me how quickly time can pass us by but how long the memories can linger in our hearts. It brings me so much happiness to look back on photographs and remember... remember the thrill of high school graduation, the butterflies of my wedding day, the calm of a newborn sleeping in my arms, the excitement of the first t-ball game, the warmth of my family, the joy in the small and simple moments.

I would love to help you capture those moments...

I can be contacted at

laceyannenielson@hotmail{dot}com

0r check out the blog at

laceynielsonphotography.blogspot.com

Pass along the message to anyone who might be interested.... thanks so much!!

Beckam: 10 months

2009-04-23T23:37:00.000-07:00

- You light up when daddy comes through the door after being at work.

- Your cries can turn into a belly laugh in a matter of seconds.

- You have never met a food you did not like but you especially love strawberries.

- You tend to find an object throughout the day that you attach yourself to and get REALLY ticked if someone takes it away. Most recent objects: garlic salt snagged from dad, an empty bottle of hair product, a wide tooth comb... it changes daily.

- Some of your standard meal items: turkey and cheese sandwich, oatmeal with yogurt and banana, black beans, corn, peas, pears, strawberries, cottage cheese, macaroni, bites of whatever we are eating.

- You love to pull everything out of baskets, bags, or buckets. Wait for mom to put it all back in. And pull it all out again.

- You roll where ever you want to go and have come up with a side scoot. Mommy calls it "the worm" scoot. Two days ago you started pushing up on your knees. Mom is keeping her fingers crossed you will FINALLY start crawling.

-You always get your legs stuck under the coffee table or entertainment center. It doesn't matter where you start you always manage to get yourself there.

- You love to shake your head, "no no no"

- You love to be outside.

- You do not like to be held while you drink your bottle. You want to lay on the floor and do it yourself. Often times you will roll to your tummy after a few sips, look around, and then go back to eating. This process will happen over and over.

- You love shoes. You hate them on your feet but you love to play with them.

- You always pull off your right sock. You wake up from a nap and get out of your car seat with only one sock all the time.

- You will smile and smile but as soon as you see the camera pointed towards you the smile disappears.

- You wear 18 month clothes.

- You like your car seat. You can be so sad and tired but once you are in your car seat you will usually quietly sit until we get out.

- You just discovered your vocal cords and like to use them... LOUDLY. You love to happily scream at the top of your lungs and then laugh at yourself.

-You like the tubby and could spend hours in the water if Cade is not with you... he kind of likes to splash you.

-- Don't you just want to kiss those cheeks!! I do all day long!

Yea, He Made it to Our House too

2009-04-19T20:35:00.000-07:00

Cade was really excited to see that the Easter bunny had found our house. He was a bit concerned that Beckams basket appeared to be larger in size than his was. For the first little bit he had decided to claim Beckams basket as his own and just accept the fact that he would be getting baby toys and sippy cups. However, upon further inspection of his he realized that he had a baseball mitt and candy... he quickly changed his mind.

The search was on... we climbed steps to find eggs...

We found mommy eggs....
and chocolate eggs....

We let daddy hold all the eggs and made sure we counted them over, and over, and over again.

And Beckam was content just playing with, eating, and slobbering all over the plastic sports eggs.... after Cade made sure they were empty.

We had a fantastic Easter despite the burnt to a crisp roast, under cooked peas and exploded dessert... good thing Easter isn't all about food or I would have ruined it for sure this year. How thankful I am for the opportunity to experience a beautiful Easter day with my little family and have the chance to teach my boys about how lucky we are to have a Savior who loves us so much. It is a little tricky to try and teach a 3-year-old that Jesus died for us and was resurrected but in the end it was a beautiful experience to watch the light brighten in Cades eyes as he said, "mommy, Jesus died because he loves me and I get to live with him again if I am obedient."
How thankful I am for my Savior and His example and love.

Baby Steps...

2009-04-16T13:36:00.000-07:00

Here we go... I have had a few photo shoots and had so much fun!! I still have a few in the works until I am ready to start running. You can check out what I have done so far at my newest blog

laceynielsonphotography.blogspot.com or click on the link on the side of the page. Thanks again for all of your support and a special thank you to my sweet husband for encouraging to follow my dreams! I love you, sweetie!

An Easter Confession

2009-04-12T00:24:00.000-07:00

Remember this post....
Our first family experience dying eggs may or may not have gone the same way...
Maybe we will just let grandma and grandpa do the egg dying next year!
Happy Easter!

Wowzers!

2009-04-09T23:08:00.000-07:00

Everyone has been SO supportive and encouraging! Thank you so much!
My 3 sessions have been filled, and did so much faster than I ever expected (thanks Candra). I couldn't be more excited to have a family shoot, newborn session, and senior session.
I am going to work on these sessions over the next week and then hopefully jump in full force.
So, those of you that are still interested you need not fear, it wont be too much longer!

Just going to Jump

2009-04-06T15:17:00.000-07:00

When I was little I loved to jump into my dads big strong arms because I always knew he would catch me. I would climb to the highest rock, ledge, or stair and just jump towards his outstretched arms never thinking twice. I was never worried, I never doubted, I just jumped and enjoyed the ride.

I have spent a lot of time thinking about, changing my mind about, toying with, hesitating about, being excited about and having the unquenchable desire to start my own photography business. Sometimes I think that I can do it.... others I wonder what I was even thinking. But right now I am taking a page from my childhood book and am just going to jump.

So, with that being said I am still in need of some practice. So what I have decided to do is offer 3 free sessions just to get my feet under me and get use to photographing people other than my 2, usually unwilling, children. So if you live in the Las Vegas/Henderson area and want family, birthday, senior, children, anything pictures taken let me know. I am offering three 1-hour-ish sessions at an outdoor location of your choice and a CD with 10-15 edited photos for you to use as you would like. It is on a first come first serve basis so leave me a comment with your email address or email me at laceyannenielson@hotmail[dot]com.

So, here we go. Wish me luck because I have climbed as high as I can and am just going to close my eyes, jump, and enjoy the ride.

*side note: those of you I have already talked to about pictures, your offer still stands. :)

Cade Originals

2009-03-29T20:26:00.000-07:00

February/March 2009

When Beckam wakes up Cade darts to his room, clears his throat and says, "gooooooood morning sunshine" over and over, clears his throat says "gooooood morning sunshine" over and over and repeats the process until I pick up Becks and walk out of the room.

I asked Cade what he wanted to do this morning. He looked at me and without even a second of thought he says, "I want to play with Beckam, mom." He melts my heart.

Cade was running up and down a steep driveway. When he would go down he would put out his arms and say, "ahhh, it is pulling me down!"

When he was finished eating breakfast Cade stood up on his chair and flexed his muscles to which I replied, "wow, those are pretty strong muscles!" He then says, "I am not pretty strong, I AM strong! And healthy too!"

Cade was looking for money under all of the cushions the other day. I told him to get a baggie and he could go through the junk drawer to see what he could find. He found a handful of change, shoved it in the bag, victoriously held the bag in the air and shouts, "Let's go to ChuckE Cheese!"

He loves Star Wars: Clone Wars cartoon. All the original characters are in the show but he calls them Konobie Dobie (Obi-Wan Kenobie) and Annin-Cannon (Anakin)

We were driving home from the park and Cade thought we were racing the cars behind us. He peeks at the cars following us and says to me, "Mom, you are a genius! You are going fast!"

We were reading books in my bed and Cade had snuggled under the covers. I soon hear him say, "Mom, I just smelled my bums breath and it is really stinky!"

Beckam was babbling and saying, "Da Da Da" over and over. Cade quickly says with excitement, "mom, he can talk Spanish!"

He came to my Young Womens class room on Sunday after church and the treat basket was still out on the floor. He was slowly walking circles around it and then taps me on the leg and motions for me to bend down. He then whispers in my ear, "are you thinking what I am thinking?" I ask him what he is thinking and he says, "those treats, I want to eat um!"

Beckam: Month 9

2009-03-26T19:48:00.000-07:00

-You weigh 21.6 pounds
-28.5 inches long
-You love to eat the bottom of everything (bottles, sippys, cups, containers) you will always tip them over and chew on the bottom.
-You usually wake up around 8:30am and if a certain brother wakes you up early you are really good about going back to sleep.
-You are always ready for a nap at 11:00am and usually again around 3:30pm.
-You love to bang your foot up and down on your car seat.
-You want to see everything but are still good about wanting to cuddle.
-You will always laugh at Cade.
-You have 6 teeth.
- You have had a hard time with allergy symptoms (runny nose, watery eyes, itchy eyes and ears, sneezing)
-You are super ticklish and will always laugh when we squish your thighs.
-You are not afraid of people and will cuddle with anyone who is willing.
-You sing a tired song.
-You wear 12-18 month clothes.
-You like to sleep on your back with your head kinked back and to the side. It always looks so uncomfortable but we always find you in that position.
-You are happy for most of the time.
-If it is close to nap time and we are not close to your bed you will usually just lay your head down and go to sleep.
-You always try to get Cades shoes and eat them.
- You have absolutely no interest in crawling.
-You usually go to bed for the night at about 6:30pm
-Your favorite snack is goldfish and you always want a taste of whatever you see someone eating.
-You love to blow bubbles and usually practice when mom is feeding you.
-Your favorite word is "Da"
-You love to eat.
-You have the most kissable, pouty lips ever!
We love you our little Beckam and are so thankful to have you in our family!

Dearest Tooth Fairy,

2009-03-23T11:25:00.000-07:00

When you come to visit our house, in a few years, for this little guy.... I would appreciate it if you did something extra special with his teeth. He has worked really hard and been rather miserable trying to get them to come in. Thanks a bunch!

Sincerely,
His mommy

I Keep Going Back...

2009-03-20T14:54:00.000-07:00

...but my trips gets shorter and shorter!

I had the awesome opportunity to fly to Utah for a whopping 19 hours yesterday.

I hung out with this girl and had an amazing time. She is an incredible photographer in Utah who let me pick her brain until mine felt like it was going to burst.

We had a fantastic time and I learned a ton and I also got to work with these cuties. We were good friends with the Nelsons when they lived in Vegas and so I had to track her down to snap some pictures of her kiddos while I was in Utah.

It was a total whirlwind but so worth it. My brain is bursting with information that hopefully I can translate into some fun pictures!

Thanks Jess I had a fantastic time! And thanks to Megan and your cute kiddos for making the drive down to the city and dealing with the "craziness" of picture day! And also a big thanks to my sweet grandma and cousin Olivia, you were great Liv!

Who Needs Leprechauns...

2009-03-17T09:18:00.000-07:00

When you have a 3-year-old with Green rain boots?

Happy St. Patrick's Day!

What do We do on the Weekends?

2009-03-15T23:33:00.000-07:00

We wrestle....

And sometimes Beckam wins and Cade looses...

And other times...

Cade wins and Beckam looses...

But most of the time I ignore the rolling, throwing, slimeing, and brawling and just pretend I am playing tea party with her!

What Good are Shirts...

2009-03-09T18:14:00.000-07:00

If they aren't holding a sword.

This picture is basically my life in a nutshell. All pretend. All fun. All ninjas and animals. You name it, we have pretended it today. Oh to have the imagination of a 3-year-old.

26 Things I Learned in my 25th Year of Life

2009-03-03T15:54:00.000-08:00

I have spent a great deal of time today thinking about what this last year held for me. New callings, different experiences, a bigger family, lessons learned, lessons missed, hospital visits, knowledge shared, knowledge gained. So many unique experiences, some of them I saw coming and others I did not. None the less, I have become who I am because of these and many other lessons and experiences I have had along the way.

1. Laundry and dishes multiply by a crazy amount the more people you add to your family, no matter how small they are.
2. Pay several months in advance for preschool.
3. You don't need a trainer to work out but it makes it more fun to have one around. As soon as you stop with the trainer, the gym gets really boring.
4. Searching the scriptures daily can really change your attitude.
5. Once you have something about your child figured out they throw you another curve ball just to confuse you and keep you on your toes.
6. Owning a house is really not all it is cracked up to be.
7. The best part about having 2 kids is watching them learn how to really love each other.
8. "Spray and Wash" is an essential item in every mothers laundry room.
9. Buying clothes in off seasons is much cheaper and a lot more fun to pull them out of the "stash" when they are needed.
10. Nothing can compensate for hard work and saving money.
11. The things that are actually in our control are really the only things that matter. (spiritual, service, attitude, faith, hard work, etc.)
12. Little boys always stink... no matter how little or big they are.
13. When you find a pair of jeans that fit right and you love, buy 2 of them, it will save you money and headache in the long run.
14. Don't ever risk more than you can afford to lose.
15. The Lord always has a plan to teach us exactly what we need to learn. Whether we think we need to learn it or not.
16. Teaching sunbeams is physically exhausting but one of the most rewarding callings.
17. Texting is so convenient.
18. I love serving in the Young Women, it is definitely my favorite calling.
19. Tivo is the only way to watch TV.
20. The only time I make it into a picture is when Cade is taking them (picture above) or I am pregnant.
21. A little bit of alone time every day can go a long way.
22. As soon as I try to do things on my own, without going to my Father in Heaven for guidance, I fail.
23. Money might make life easier but it doesn't make it happier.
24. I want to be a photographer so much. I keep toying with the idea of starting my own business. The biggest thing standing in my way.... myself.
25. No matter how much you brush and floss, if you don't go to the dentist for 5 years you are bound to have some problems.
26. The more gratitude I allow to fill my heart the brighter and more fulfilling my days are.

My list could continue and become more specific with every person, relationship, experience, trial, happiness, and insight I have experienced this past year. However, it the best way to accurately portray this year is with 2 words, "thank you."
Thank you to my Heavenly Father for his patience and trust in me.
Thank you to my sweet husband for opening up a whole new world to me and allowing me to experience it but also making it possible for me to be myself.
Thank you to my boys for molding me and stretching me in ways I never knew possible.
Thank you to my family and friends for your continued support, prayers, examples, laughs, and insights.

Here is to the last 26 years and looking forward to many more... Cheers!

Beckam: 8 months

2009-02-23T14:59:00.000-08:00

-You wake up so happy! Your little arms and legs get going a million miles an hour and your whole body bounces up and down.
-You have a fantastic laugh. It comes clear from your toes.
-You love your brother and your daddy. Your eyes light up when they walk into the room.
-You get SO jealous when we are eating things you cannot have. You try so hard to get the food out of Cades hands.
-You have 2 top and 2 bottom teeth with one more almost popped through. Teething has not been a fun experience for you!
-You can only see your scar when your hair is wet.
-You are a very relaxed kid but you don't hesitate to let us know when you want something. You can be very sassy when you want to be.
-You have not been too interested in crawling but you always want to see things.
-You finally like your big boy car seat. You used to hate it.
-You often get to be the "big boy" when playing with Cade because he always calls the "baby" roll. Therefore you spend a great deal of time having mommy pretend walk you through the house.
-You are always trying to grab things that are around you.
-Your favorite toy is the Tylenol bottle.
-You can usually only stay awake for about 2 hours until you are begging for a nap.
-Your are probably kissed more than any other baby ever has been.
We Love you big guy!

Cade Originals- January

2009-02-23T14:49:00.000-08:00

January 2009

- Cade decided that it was his turn to say prayers for lunch. He bows his head and says, "Dear Heavenly Father" and then silence...silence...silence. I pipe in and say, "just tell Him what you love." He then quickly speaks up and says, "Jesus.... I really want another skateboard."
-We were at my sister-in-laws house and Cade came into the room to tattle on one of his cousins to which Jared replies, "Cade we don't like tattle tails." Cade looks at him, kind of confused, and says, "but I like dragons..." and walks away.
-Whenever the boys play and Beckam drools on Cade, Cade will wipe his face and say, "ahhhh, he SLIMMED me!"

How Did I Get so Lucky?

2009-02-18T14:45:00.000-08:00

Oh how I love these little boys...

And how they love each other!
(click to make them big...they are way cuter)

Little Did I Know

2009-02-15T19:27:00.000-08:00

This week 5 years ago I met him. He was sweet, charming, and completely unexpected.

Our first date was on a Thursday... I oddly felt like I was with my long lost best friend.

On Sunday I met his family... and was awestruck by how much he loved them and how much they loved him.

And by Friday I knew only 2 things...
1. I was completely and utterly in love with this boy... and...
2. Marrying him would be the best decision I would ever make.

Here I am now 5 years later. I know a lot more now but would I have ever expected my journey to lead me here...?
Never.
Would I do it all over again...?
Absolutely!

I love you...
crazy and all.

Mistakes...

2009-02-10T11:16:00.000-08:00

While Cade was in Utah spending time with Jareds family I toyed with the idea of taking him out of preschool because life was so hectic on Tuesday and Thursday mornings since his school is about 20 minutes away. I thought about just having both of my boys home and forgetting about school for a bit. However, the more that I thought about it and as soon as Cade came home I remembered how good preschool is for him. Socially he as excelled and thrived on those 4 hours a week that he can be with friends, learn how to be the leader, learn his letters, colors, dance, draw, and play. He has done so well and I almost felt guilty for even thinking about taking him out.
Last night Cade and I went on a special Valentines date. We went to pick out all his valentine cards and candy for his friends at school and special gifts for his teachers. We talked all about his valentines party on Thursday and he could hardly contain his excitement. His excitement and enthusiasm was contagious and so I woke up this morning with a renewed drive and energy. I went to the gym early and got showered and ready before the boys needed to be up. We spent the morning making breakfast, singing songs, and getting ready to go back to school. I had plans to drop of Cade, run to the store and get home in enough time to put Beckam down and do a little bit of scripture study before picking Cade up. As we stood in line to go into class I was feeling like I had finally gotten it together. We were not only there but we were there early and happy. As I reached the door and tried to sign him in I couldn't find his name on the list. I thought it was strange and so did the teachers, who were so excited to see that Cade had made it back to class. I was directed to another lady who quickly, and not so nicely, told me that I hadn't paid and so they gave his spot away. I was floored because I was sure that I had paid. She sent me to the front so I left Cade with his class sure that I would get it all straightened out. We searched records and talked to the principal and sure enough... I forgot to pay. I thought about it a million times and was positive that I had paid before we left on our Utah trip but there was no record. They told me that there was nothing that they could do because someone else was already occupying Cades spot. I stood there in tears as she told me that I could register for next year starting in July. I tried to smile, say thank you, and make the tearful walk to Cades class.
As I knocked on the classroom door I could feel the tears burning because I felt so bad that I had made such a dumb mistake that not only made me feel sad but I knew would effect Cade too. The teacher opened the door, told me to come in and asked if I was okay. I told her what had happened and had Cade say goodbye. The whole time Cade kept saying, "mom, I am not done yet. We haven't colored or sang songs its not time to go." My heart broke. As we walked into the hall Cade said, "I am sorry I don't have a picture for you today, mommy." I felt awful and cried the whole way to the car.
I hoped that I would check my records when we got home and find that I had actually paid however as I searched and searched my bank statements... nothing.
I know that Cade is only 3, it isn't that big of a deal if he is in school or not but I feel awful that he no longer has the opportunity because of a stupid mistake. I will never forget his sad little face looking up at me from his table telling me that it wasn't time to leave yet.
As I have cried, prayed, gotten frustrated, talked out, cried again, and allowed this whole situation to roll through my brain today there are times I feel sick because I want him to have that happiness so badly. However, I am looking forward to my time with him. I have come to appreciate him even more over the past few weeks. His witty personality, his sweetness, how sincere he is, how he can make me laugh. I am thankful that I do get to hold onto a little bit more of his childhood before he has to head off into the big world. I can only imagine how sad our Father in Heaven feels when he knows that we are missing out on so much potential happiness, growth, and joy. I am however, thankful that I have the opportunity to learn from and grow because of some of His sweet spirits even if I do make dumb mistakes.

A Little Thing we Call... 10 Days in Utah

2009-02-05T14:45:00.000-08:00

We said "hello" to our favorite future missionary... "Elder Nielson." Who sang Called to Serve the whole 10 days including in the MTC parking lot at the top of his lungs.

We said "good-bye" to our favorite current missionary... Elder Williams. My adorable and amazing little brother who will be serving in the Santa Rosa, California mission.

We "showered" said "We are ready" to our soon to be little nephew who will be joining our family in May. (by the way I made the diaper cake and the quilt! Can you believe it! I cant! I did have a bit of help, okay a lot of help, on the quilt from this fantastic lady but I think I might have caught the quilting bug!)

I said "you know you love to have your picture taken" to all of my cousins, brothers, sisters, parents, aunts, uncles... all of them.

And Beckam... He was just happy and content to play with his new favorite toy...
His toes!

Beckam: 7 months

2009-01-20T00:29:00.000-08:00

You love to sleep on your side
I can always count on you to eat your vegetables but sometimes have to convince you to eat your fruit.
You discovered that you can sit all by yourself on New Years Eve. However, you still sometimes get distracted and tip yourself over.
You like to eat your toes but get stuck in half and cannot get back up.
You always fuss when you see mommy so she will pick you up.
You love graham crackers.

You have 2 teeth... just barely... you can see them above.
You drool like crazy and love to eat everything.
Your smile comes clear from your toes and radiates through your eyes. You love to share your smile with everyone.
You have adorable chunky legs. Mommy calls them, "your chunky monkeys"
You think that Cade is the funniest person in the whole world. You will always laugh at him and love to watch his every move.
You hate to have your face cleaned or nose wiped.
When you get excited to kick your legs like crazy.
You like to blow bubbles still.

We love you our little Becks... you are wonderful!

I Will Admit...

2009-01-13T15:45:00.001-08:00

I am in a rut. Not a comfortable, productive, eat the same thing for lunch kind of a rut but a why is my house always a mess kind of a rut? A why does my laundry always seem to be dirty or in need of folding kind of a rut. A I need a minute for myself but I have a non-napping preschooler and a very grouchy teether on my hands kind of a rut. A I know I should get to the gym but cant quite get in the groove kind of a rut. A why does my bathroom always smell like little boy pee kind of a rut. A we need more space but I have to worry about feeding mouths first so forget about a house kind of a rut. A why the heck is the car broken again kind of a rut. A I know I should be planning a lesson but my brain is fried kind of a rut. A I know I need to get out but I seem to always have someone sleeping or sick kind of a rut. A I want to be a great photographer so much I can taste it, I dream it, I constantly think about it but never have time to pick up a camera because my arms are always full and I am basically terrified to see what the picture product will be because I don't have a clue what I am doing kind of a rut. Basically I am in a self pity, totally overwhelmed kind of a rut. A rut that I have been wallowing in and clawing my way out of all at the same time. I wake up each morning and think, "today will be different. I will clean. I will play with my boys. I will make dinner. I will get on top of my life." However, by the time 10:00am has rolled around and I have cleaned up spilled milk 3 times, tubbied 2 boys and subsequently cleaned up lots of spilled water, cleaned up toys just to find they have migrated out into the living room again, gotten ready for the gym just to have Beckam bellow in protest and beg for a nap I scrap the plan, throw my hands in the air, and spend the day attempting to "get it all done."
I remember, back in October when Beckams surgery was cancelled, a particular conversation I had with my mom. I was in tears, ready to have it over, or at least started. I remember telling her that I just felt numb. Numb was the only way to adequately describe my feelings. A feeling that I was a little bit frustrated with because I wanted to sort out and deal with my feelings. I remember her telling me to "embrace the numbness." She encouraged me to allow the Savior to shoulder my emotions at this time, that He was there to help me bear the load until I could stand stronger. I remember being comforted and yet terrified by her statement. I remember thinking, "just let me deal with it now because the thought of it hurting more in the future or knowing that it might hit me even harder is absolutely terrifying." Once the surgery finally came and went I felt so at peace, so calm, so okay. As Beckam recovered I could feel my life slowly creep back to normal. I could feel myself trying to "get my feet back underneath me" and surprisingly I felt just fine. So, now here I stand, a month later. I can now feel that my legs are wobbly. I don't feel strong enough but I know in the end I will be. I just need to stretch my wings, strengthen my legs, and keep my eyes on the Savior.
Life is good. Life is not easy. But life, every day life, in or out of a rut, is so worth it. Because I know that, "In the Strength of the Lord, I can do ALL things."

Christmas 2008

2009-01-02T11:36:00.001-08:00

We had a nice, quiet, relaxing Christmas this year. On Christmas eve we went to Jared's brothers house for dinner and other festivities. We had a fantastic time and feel so blessed to have them so close.

Once dinner was demolished it was off to open presents. We snuggled, we laughed, we checked on Santa's "progress" to which Cade would say, "holy cow! He will be here any minute!" Cade wasn't totally getting the whole idea of Santa until Christmas eve so it was so fun to see that childhood Christmas spirit ignite in him as he bounced around the house excited for Old Saint Nick to come.

All the little boys opened transformers that night. They were all so excited to break them out and see what they could become. However, even though the package said: Ages- 5 and older. I think we all agreed that they should have been for 45 and older because none of us could figure out how to "transform" them. Jared and Jason spent a good amount of time with the instructions and eventually transformed them into their first and final state of being. Needless to say, Cades is still and will always be an airplane.

Once the festivities had wound down and little eyes were beginning to be rubbed we headed home. As soon as Cade got out of the car he ran as fast as he could to the house so that, "Santa wouldn't see him." It made me smile and also made me wish that Santa would come every night because as soon as he entered the door he ran to his room, jumped into bed and we didn't hear a peep from him until we had to wake him up at 8:30 the next morning.

We left our treats for Santa and snuggled in to watch Fred Clause. I didn't think I would be able to sleep because I was so excited for the next morning but before I knew it Jared was nudging me and telling me that he was heading to bed. Although I did wake a couple of times that night with surges of excitement I was able to dose off again until the sun peeked thorough our blinds welcoming Christmas morning.

I didn't take many pictures of Christmas morning because I opted to video tape it instead. I wanted to be able to enjoy the moment and not just document it. So with the video camera and Beckam being passed back and forth between Jared and I we were able to experience Christmas through Cades eyes. It was so enthralling to feel his excitement. Every gift he opened it was as if it was the first gift he had ever received. He made me laugh, he made me tear up, me made me proud to call him mine, but most of all he made me realize how precious and exciting the simple things in life are. Beckam was a good little baby and mostly just liked to eat the wrapping paper. However, Cade got really excited for him every time he opened a present.

The tradition I grew up with and loved was that at the end of Christmas we would open our stockings and follow a string that starts at the stocking, winds through the house and ends at our "big" present from mom and dad. Cades stocking this year was his guitar. It is a cool guitar that Jared and I played with for about an hour before putting it in its final hiding place- the dryer. Cade was stoked about it and truly thinks he is a rock star!

Once we had opened our gifts- Jared surprised me with some shoes and gift cards and Santa brought him Rock Band 2- we headed back to Jason and Melissas for some breakfast. While the big boys rocked out the little boys put one their "armor," loaded up their artillery and headed outside...

while the girls put their feet up and had a tea party. So fitting!

The boys got mostly necessities from Santa but were spoiled but grandmas and grandpas.

We had a great holiday filled with family, food, and fun and feel so blessed to have the opportunity to celebrate the birth of our Lord and Savior. Thank you to everyone who called, sent Christmas wishes, and participated in this fun time of year. We love you all!

To check out what we did for New Years go here. We had a BLAST! And as Cade would say, "you're the Rockinest Dude!"