:) Happy Jones' :)

Christmas Eve....

2012-01-01T23:01:00.002-07:00

We were LUCKY and got a special visit from Santa on Christmas Eve!!! Ryan & I knew about it...we told some family/friends to come over...but we did NOT tell the kids. They had NO idea...and just told them that we were having people over for dinner...which we did after Santa left...but they had no idea. So when the big man in red showed up...there was LOTS of excitement...smiles...and some nervous faces!!!!
It was a GREAT time and experience...and some adults (me) were probably a little more excited then the kids!!! It was just GREAT!!!

Santa was so SO real looking...how can you NOT believe when he shows up at your door with gifts in his magic bag for you...and they are what you have been asking for!?!?!

Klous was all smiles and didn't stop smiling the whole time!!! He was outside with Uncle Matthew putting something in the truck when Santa showed up...so all we heard was him yell...SAAAAAANNNNNNNTTTTTAAAA!!!!! Then he walked him into the house!!!
Aysha wasn't quite as excited...and would NOT sit on his lap...eventually warmed up enough to give him knuckles....and when she opened her princess baby she was a bit more excited!!!! I love the look on her face though!!!

And Kyson was NOT having it!!! He would not sit or even get close to Santa!! But I looked at the camera...said are you ready? And put him on there!!! This is the picture we got!!! LoL...classic Santa/kid picture right!!!! He was happier when he got the blocks too!!!
We were SO SO SO lucky to get this great visit. Thank you to UCCU for allowing us to be a part of it...and for blessing our Christmas more then they'll ever know!!!! Here is our happy, shocked, AMAZED family all with Santa after opening the gifts!!! Blocks for Kyson...a baby for Aysha...a truck/trailer for Klous...and for the family he brought a Wii....I'm still in shock and so grateful for how we were blessed!!!
Such a GREAT start to our Christmas weekend and holiday!!! I love this time of year!!!

Child proof...Riiiiiight :)

2011-12-21T16:42:00.003-07:00

So I thought the snap/button thing they put at the top of footie jammies was to keep the kids from finding the zipper!?!?!?! Well it doesn't....just look how proud Kyson is of his new look with his jammies!!!!

Every time he wears these jammies...this is how he wears them now!!! Silly kid!!!

My baby ISN'T a baby :(

2011-12-20T12:31:00.005-07:00

What happened to my sweet, sleepy, cute, adorable, happy, loving little baby!?!?!?! He was so so little...and such a blessing!!!
Oh ya....now he's turned into my sweet, sleepy, cute, adorable, happy, loving little MAN!!! Can't believe the blessings and happiness he's brought into our family...

HAPPY BIRTHDAY Kyson!!!! We love you LOTS!!!! Can't believe you're already TWO!!!!

Kids...LOVE them!!!

2011-12-19T15:42:00.002-07:00

The kids have really been enjoying our new place!!! The just play...find things to do...enjoy the space...and usually stay out of our way!!! As much as kids do!!! ;) The other night...ok a couple weeks ago...I got these cute pictures of them!!! All three of them just doing their own things...it was so cute!!!

Kyson has always been the one who will just sit and play...he doesn't need anyone else around...he doesn't need to be entertained...he'll just play. Blocks, legos, little people, cars, Mr. Potato Head...whatever it is...he just plays!!! This is how I caught him playing!!! Just sitting content as could be!!!
Aysha May is getting better too...she'll just find something...usually it's taking care of her babies...getting them changed or down for naps or whatever!!! She can be found usually in her room rocking and shushing her babies!!! Too cute...but this night she was at the table just playing with the beads and enjoying them all to herself!!!
Then comes Klous...he's always wanted/needed someone to play WITH him. And isn't too fond of the idea of being told to go find something to do or play with!!! Is that a 1st child thing!?!?!? But tonight he was entertaining himself with paint sticks and a balloon!!! Just fighting, shooting, hitting, and whatever else he could do with it!!! Typical boy huh!!!
I sure do love these kiddos...and I am SOOOO...happy that we have a place of our own...more space for them to play...for them to store their toys...and just for us to be together but not so crammed!!!! Aren't they so cute in their little Santa hats!?!?!? :)
They sure were proud of the tree they helped decorate!!! First time in 3 years we've put up a BIG tree!!! So they had fun!!! Check out Kyson's BIG cheeser smile!!! He cracks me up!!!

Aysha's birthday...a month ago :(...

2011-12-19T15:31:00.002-07:00

We forgot to post about Aysha May's birthday!!! She turned THREE on Thanksgiving day!!! We were a bit overwhelmed and busy...but we made time for sweet Aysha's birthday!!! It's not her fault it was on Turkey day...OR that we were moving!!! So we relaxed for that day and just tried to focus on HER!!!
Can't believe my sweet baby girl is already 3...crazy how fast time goes!!!

We had the kids sit in the family room and watch shows til it was time to open her presents!!! I carried them in, but we didn't have enough PRINCESS wrapping paper for all of them...so she had to cover her eyes while I carried them in!!! Isn't she cute!!!
Then she got to open her gifts...one of which was a sleeping bag/eye mask/purse all in one!!! She was very excited...as you can tell!!
That evening we invited all the family over for cake and ice cream...but I forgot to get ice cream...oops. But the cake was good...seeing as how everyone was still full from turkey dinner and pie!!!
Here's cute Aysha getting sung to and preparing to blow out candles!!!
And there she blows!!!! She's so darn cute!!!
And then the presents from everyone else!!! She was very excited and happy that day!!! She's turning into such a big girl. Even on her grumpy/moody days...she just needs to bat her eyes and smile and it'll melt your heart!!!!
LOVE YOU Aysha May!!!! Happy 3rd birthday!!!

Pictures....FINALLY!!!

2011-12-14T22:42:00.003-07:00

Ok everyone...here are the pictures I've promised!!! The first collage is pics of the house BEFORE we started anything....kids running like animals through a completely empty house!!! With ugly WHITE walls!!! This was the point we thought it was such a GREAT idea to paint EVERY room with a DIFFERENT color!!! What were we thinking!?!?! Who knows!?!??! :) But this is the before stuff...
And then there are these...tried to get as close to the same poses or standing for the pictures!!! Not all of them are great...but good enough!!!! This of course is the AFTER pics!!!! The first two are the family room...next two kitchen...then the dining room (notice the sliding glass door is GONE!!! And the shelf/knick-knack-dust collecting thing is gone too)...then the next two are the living room area...and finally boys room...Aysha's room...and our room!!!!

No the house is NOT finished...far from it I'm sure...but we are DONE with painting for awhile. I don't really want to look at another paint brush/can/roller or anything for awhile!!!! We're happy and content with how it is...for now!!! Just trying to get things organized and put together as much as we can!!! Then throw in Aysha's birthday...Thanksgiving...Christmas parties...Kyson's birthday...Christmas...YA...NOTHING is really getting done around here :( Ugh!!!
Oh well...we're not going anywhere right!!! Just thought I'd FINALLY post the pics and let you all see the comparisons!!! It's fun to look at it and see where we've gotten!!!! Thank GOODNESS for amazing friends and people who are willing to come help at all hours of the day/night!!! You know who you are...and we LOVE you!!!

We're IN...we're hooked up...and we're alive!!!

2011-12-03T22:31:00.003-07:00

Well...it's official. As of November 18th, we are official homeowners!!! Here's our cute little abode!!!! :)
Sorry I've been MIA...between packing, cleaning, painting, moving, unpacking, cleaning more, Thanksgiving, Aysha's Birthday, and being BURNT out...we just barely got internet hooked up again at our new place...and we are still alive!!! Tired...but alive!!! We have to be out of our apartment by Monday...so this weekend has been finishing up cleaning there and getting all our CRAP out!!! Ugh...such a process...how do people accumulate so much STUFF!?!?!?! Do I really need it all!?!?! Ugh!!!!
Anyways...I will be posting before/after pictures of this place!!! It's coming along..."done" enough for us!!! Touch-ups all over that need to be done...but the majority of the BIG projects are done!!! Now it's just a matter of finding a place to put everything!!! How in the world did we fit all this stuff in such a small place!?!?! Cuz I'm beginning to wonder if it's all gonna fit here!?!?! And we have 1000 MORE square feet...so!?!?!? It's gotta right!?!?!?!
Just wanted you all to know we're alive and getting moved in & settled!!!

You think they're related!?!??!

2011-11-17T22:37:00.002-07:00

This was last week...but I had to laugh when I looked at all my boys...

You think they're related?!??! Or that they take after Daddy!?!?! Yes Ryan is making the funny face...but he did NOT pose with his arm like that...he really was sitting like this!!! LoL...and then after I put the camera away...I realized Aysha was laying with her arm up too...just didn't get a picture...funny things kids acquire from us parents huh!!!

House...OUR house!!!

2011-11-17T00:24:00.002-07:00

So...we're buying a HOUSE!!! WooHoo right!!! We're VERY excited...we're VERY busy...and we're tired and worn out EVERY night so far this week!!! We've been in painting and prepping to move in!!! We are closing TOMORROW...so please everyone pray, cross your fingers, whatever so it all goes through and goes well!!! Yay!!! I can't really believe it...I can't believe it's really happening and that we'll really have a place of our OWN...it's been a LONG time coming...and to have so much space...so many rooms to paint...so much space...so much storage...and so much SPACE!!! Hallelujah!!! I am just HAPPY!!! :) :) :) :)

I've taken pictures of the house before...I haven't put them on the computer yet...but I will...we've painted Aysha's room...and the boys room...working on the dining room...family room...kitchen...and Ryan is doing OUR room...he says it's HIS surprise...and I can't see it til it's done!!! So...YAY!!! Stay tuned for pictures and things...hopefully I'll get some on tomorrow!?!?! It's all FOR REAL!!! Closing is scheduled for tomorrow afternoon...wish us luck!!!! :) :) :) :)

Get a Melissa & Doug 25% Off Coupon When You Take the North "Poll"

2011-11-13T23:42:00.005-07:00

I don't know if any of you are familiar with these toys...but they're AMAZING!!! So you should check out this GREAT deal they're having!!! Great for the holidays!!! :) :) :)

Melissa & Doug want you to tell them which of their educational toys you think is the best! Just click on the image below to place your vote in the North "Poll!" You'll Get a Melissa & Doug 25% Off Coupon** to use at MelissaAndDoug.com just for voting!

Seriously!?!?! How do I choose!?!??!

2011-11-10T01:14:00.002-07:00

So we're waiting to finally and hopefully hear from the underwriter TOMORROW...as long as everything goes well!!! Then we'll HOPEFULLY be closing next week!?!?! Who knows...by the way...we're BUYING a house!!! For those who don't know!!!!
Now as for this post...I am going NUTSO looking at all these paint options and colors and everything!!! HOW DOES ONE CHOOSE!?!?!?!
My eyes are going blurry...my mind is getting too stimulated...and I just DON'T know what to do!?!?! Really??? This is OUR choice??? WE can decide??? It's so fun and so exciting...but SOOOOOOOO overwhelming!!!! Ryan and I have sat up til now...1:20 a.m...trying to decide colors to put in the house!!! I wish it was as easy for us as it is for the kids!!! Klous/Kyson want blue/white...GO BYU...(mostly Klous, Kyson just says...YAH!!!) And Aysha...well she's our little girly, girl...Princess!!! So she's all about Pink and Purple!!!! Oh to have such easy choices and decisions!!!!
Now for the living room...and the dining room...and the kitchen...and the family room...and the bathrooms...and OUR bedroom!!!! WOW...here's to hoping the colors we decided on all look ok and go well together!?!?!? We'll see how much I like painting after all these rooms get done!!! :) :) :) I'm excited now...how long does this excitement last!?!?!?!

Try it out...

2011-11-06T23:17:00.002-07:00

Ok...thank you all for letting me know that you want to be included...or that you stalk my blog...or whatever!! I appreciate it and love knowing that people really do read up on it!!! I will keep your emails and things on file or whatever....but for now...I'm trying this out.

A friend of mine told me that I can just not accept anonymous comments...so I changed up my settings...and we'll see how things go like this for now...I know I don't check the "private" blogs as much as the other ones...so I really didn't want to have to do that...but I will if I have to.

So for now...we'll try this out and see where it gets us...but it sure makes me happy to know and see how many TRUE friends/family members read this and want to help me and love me!! So thanks!!! Means a lot!!!

Going PRIVATE....

2011-11-01T14:17:00.002-06:00

Not cuz I want to...but more so because I HAVE to...I've decided to make my blogs private. It sucks, because I've had this blog for 4 1/2 years or more...and I've NEVER had issues or problems. Then this year comes around...and I have issues and problems on my "Burn Becki's Belly Fat" blog...anonymous comments coming that are very much un-called for. I thought we were good...I made changes...protected myself and family a little more...and then......

BAM

It happens again...so I'm done. I can't take it anymore. I can't let pathetic, low, inconsiderate people put things on here and then NOT take the credit for them.

So even with the headache that comes along with it...I will be going private this weekend...please send me an e-mail or message or comment or something so I can add whoever would REALLY like to be a part of this blog. I'll get the invites or whatever out as soon as I get things going this weekend. Sorry for the inconvenience...

Halloween 2011

2011-11-01T13:59:00.003-06:00

We had a good Halloween...and the kids were THRILLED about their costumes!!! Thank goodness we have a sweet Aunt who helps us out and loves us!!! Cuz they wouldn't have looked near as cute with anything else...

Here's the kiddos...before all the fun festivities and parties on Saturday...Kyson - puppy, Klous - Iron Man, Aysha - Princess Belle
We went to Daddy's work Halloween morning...and ran to other places...it was a BUSY day...and I was exhausted by the end...but it's worth it all for the kids right!!!
And here's the most important part!!! THANK YOU AUNTIE KIM for making this Halloween so GREAT!!! We love you more then you know!!!!
Hope you all had a good Halloween too!!

SO good and SO true...

2011-10-22T23:41:00.001-06:00

Just had to share this, because it is SO incredibly true...and SUCH a good quote. Amazing how things come to you or you find something when you need it most. I've needed this for quite some time now...but things always have a time and a place and a reason...just glad I found it!!! Hope it helps someone else too!?!?!

10 Years...

2011-10-19T14:01:00.003-06:00

Well it's been 10 AMAZINGLY fun, exciting, hard, trying, love building, faith building, best decision of my life years!!!! It was 10 years ago today that my parents, younger brother Danny, and I drove from Swan River, MN to Hudson, WI to see my fiance and all his family...as well as my family for the BIG DAY!!! Oh what a time that was...
I went through the temple on Oct. 19, 2001...and that was the beginning of knowing it was the BEST choice I had ever made...we hung out...we visited...we had YUMMY homemade spaghetti dinner...we laughed...we went to the Mall of America...it was a GREAT day!!!! But really didn't compare at all to the next day...when I would marry the man of my dreams...the one I loved more then anything....the one who treats me like a princess...the one who would do and still does ANYTHING for me. I couldn't have asked for a better man...Ryan Dee Jones...I sure do love him!!
The last 10 years have been quite the roller-coaster ride...and I'm sure it won't stop...but it's been SOOOO... worth it. We've been through a LOT...and yet our love for each other has only grown stronger....how did I get so lucky!?!?!
It was on our 5th anniversary we were celebrating and enjoying our brand new baby boy Klous...sitting there thinking...man this is kind of a BIG anniversary and all we did was hang out at home and enjoy our baby boy....now we're 5 years past that and celebrating our 10 year anniversary...and are we doing anything big or extravagant??? NO...we're sitting at home...debating whether or not we should start packing or what we should do. You see...apparently Heavenly Father wants to give us some BIG blessings and things every 5 years!?!?! The 5th year we got a baby...and now the 10th year...it looks as though we'll be buying our first house!!! WOOOOOOOOOOOOOOHOOOOOOOOOOOOOO :) :) :) No it's not the cruise I wanted...or the tropical vacation I wanted ALONE with my hubby...or the new diamond band to go along with my wedding ring...BUT...it is a house...a place of our OWN...where we will have MORE room...MORE space...MORE storage...and it's OURS!!!!
YAY!!!!
Anyways...it's been a GREAT 10 years...and I'm positive the next 10, 20, 30, 50 years will be just as amazing and wonderful. Trying at times yes...but SO worth it!!!
I love you Ryan with ALL my heart...and I'd be completely lost without you. THANK YOU for being my best friend and for loving me unconditionally. Can't wait to have a day with you tomorrow!!! I LOVE YOU!!!!

Families ARE Forever...

2011-10-16T22:28:00.002-06:00

I was just watching some of the "Mormon Messages" videos tonight...and WOW...that's all I can say. They are truly amazing...but this one really touched me...and I wanted to share it...so THIS is the link...and I hope you will all take time to check it out...cuz I sure am grateful for my family...my husband & kiddos...my side of the family...Ryan's side of the family...extended family...REALLY...what would we do without family!?!?! How lonely would life be!?!?! When all the other people in the world turn against you...are hard on you...make you feel worthless...who do you go to!?!?! FAMILY...I sure love my family!!! Hope you enjoy the video!!!

Dentist...Klous' BIG dentist experience!!!

2011-10-06T16:37:00.003-06:00

After a LONG time waiting and thinking they weren't THAT bad...and wondering if they'd just fall out on their own...or wondering when Klous would complain of pain...(p.s...DON'T let it get to that point)...Klous finally got to go in today for his BIG dentist appointment. He's been before and had cavities filled...and we've talked about what would have to be done for the front teeth...but we're just not the best parents...and kept putting it off...dentists AREN'T cheap...

Anyways...today he went in...we knew the plan was to pull one front tooth...cap the other front tooth...cap a couple molars in back...(because the dentist who did the fillings did something that the tooth was cracking all around it...AWESOME)...and then maybe fill a couple last cavities. Well Ryan took Klous in this morning...Klous was doing GREAT and not too nervous or worried about it...obviously doesn't like the dentist and didn't want to go...(who does???)...but he was being a good sport!!!
About 30 minutes later Ryan calls me and says...so the dentist says there's a chance that when one front tooth has so much decay and problems, that there's a GOOD chance the other one does too...SO??? We can pull both front teeth...or still cap the other one, but run the risk of needing it to be pulled soon because of problems...WHATEVER...just pull them. They're baby teeth, they'll grow in soon...he'll be 5 next week and will start losing teeth in the next year anyways...so ya...just pull them both...
Well Klous was put under...completely out for the WHOLE procedure...(when Ryan brought him home he asked..."Daddy, did I even go to sleep??" :) So cute...totally unaware of what just happened!!!)...so after waking up and coming out of anesthesia...he was with Ryan again and quite the toothless boy!!!

Here's the silver caps on the back molars...to hold the teeth together...
His big toothless mouth...those poor bloody spots...gross...
BIG gummy smile!! He was still pretty loopy and groggy during these pictures!!! But what a good sport!!!
And check out those teeth...HUGE roots huh!?!?! Why are they so big??? When kids 5-7 yr olds lose their teeth...the roots aren't that big!?!?! So what's up with these being so huge!?!??!!
The cute little treasure box he got to put his teeth in...so he can put them under his pillow for the tooth fairy!!! "She'll be SO surprised tonight, because she doesn't know he got BOTH teeth pulled...she only knew he was getting ONE!!!" He's so cute!!!
All in all...he was a GREAT sport...and he survived a MAJOR dental procedure...not something I like at all...actually I STRONGLY dislike the dentist...but such is life and we all must deal with going right!!
Here's to hoping Klous doesn't have more major teeth issues and that I can learn from this and do better with the other kids' teeth!!! UGH...dumb teeth!!!

Finding Charity...and HAVING Charity...

2011-09-26T06:50:00.002-06:00

I know I need a LOT of work on this topic. I never understood completely what "charity" was, until people would suggest I pray for charity for others...or be more charitable. So then I did some research...and realized it was about loving others...accepting them for who they are...and on and on. I still SUCK at it...but I'm trying...I'm working on it...and eventually it'll get better!!!

This last Saturday at the Relief Society meeting...Sister Allred talked about charity...and a lot of it really hit home. I re-read some of the quotes and messages this morning...and this is a quote that really got me thinking...it says...

...“Don’t be limited in your views with regard to your neighbor’s virtues. You must enlarge your souls toward others if you [would] do like Jesus. As you increase in innocence and virtue, as you increase in goodness, let your hearts expand—let them be enlarged towards others—you must be longsuffering and bear with the faults and errors of mankind. How precious are the souls of men!” ...

All of us have faults, struggles, and problems...I'll be the first to admit all of mine. But at times I don't remember or realize that other do as well. And instead of wanting to help them or wondering why they may be doing what they're doing...I'm just too quick to judge and be rude. So here's to working on this and trying to have MORE charity!!!

FABULOUS thought...

2011-09-25T09:41:00.004-06:00

Got this from a friends blog and I had to copy it...(hope she doesn't mind???)...but last night at the General Relief Society Broadcast, Pres. Dieter F. Uchtdorf (2nd counselor in the 1st presidency of the church) gave an AMAZING talk. And I know it really touched me and made me realize how much I have and how many things I CAN be grateful for...and that I just need to accept and love myself. So SO SO glad I went to the meeting last night!!!

Just another thought...

2011-09-20T08:09:00.003-06:00

I woke up this morning and went to the Rec center again...however...when I got home I didn't have the "ME" time I wanted...I got in the shower...and Ryan was up, thinking it was 7:30 instead of 7...then Klous & Aysha were up...and there goes the time. :( It was hard...I was frustrated...Klous had woken up and had a bad dream during the night, so was in our bed...which means when he woke up and was PEED SOAKEN...it was MY bed he peed in :( I was SO annoyed...SO frustrated...SO bugged...and it was only 7:30 in the morning...I wanted to scream, I wanted to cry, I'm so sick of doing laundry every single morning. UGH....
Anyways...I knew I needed to just keep going with my plans and desires to improve...so I couldn't just let those feelings consume me and upset me. So I looked online for a talk to read this morning and found THIS talk...it was what I needed...especially this paragraph and quote out of it!!! Hope you enjoy it as well!!!

"...So it is with kindness. Nothing will bring the Spirit of the Lord into your meetings, your homes, and your personal associations more quickly than showing kindness. “Charity … is kind” (1 Cor. 13:4). Kindness should be right at the top of everyone’s list of things to do. Write it down every day: “Be kind.” Kindness comes in many different packages. Be thoughtful to your neighbors. Be patient in a crowd. Be considerate of your children and your husband. Be honest with your sisters. Trust them and they will trust you. Go out and bring them into this grand circle of sisters we call Relief Society. As we increase our kindness, we add charity to our storehouse and we are strengthened...."

So after reading that...especially the sentence I put in BOLD and italics...I guess it would do me some good to change my attitude and find some consideration...some love...and some kindness for my little man Klous...he didn't mean to...and only I can choose how to react. So here goes...starting off better then a half hour ago!!!

P.S...anyone have pointers of how to get kids to NOT still pee at night!?!?! We still have to do pull-ups because of this problem...but I don't want it to continue??? Hmmmm???

Thought for the day...

2011-09-19T07:37:00.004-06:00

Found THIS talk this morning as I was looking for something uplifting to read...and thought it was a GREAT talk!!! I love and miss Pres. Hinckley a LOT...and his words mean a lot to me. Not that I don't love Pres. Monson...but this is a quote from the talk Pres. Hinckley gave back in 2003...

..."To you young women with small children, yours is a tremendous challenge. So often there is not enough money. You must scrimp and save. You must be wise and careful in your expenditures. You must be strong and bold and brave and march forward with gladness in your eye and love in your heart. How blessed you are, my dear young mothers. You have children who will be yours forever. I hope that you have been sealed in the house of the Lord and that your family will be an everlasting family in the kingdom of our Father.

May you be given strength to carry your heavy load, to meet every obligation, to walk side by side with a good and faithful and caring man, and together with him rear and nurture and bring up your children in righteousness and truth. Nothing else you will ever own, no worldly thing you will ever acquire will be worth so much as the love of your children. God bless you, my dear, dear young mothers."...

I hope it'll help or touch someone else today as it has lifted me!!! Happy Monday all!!!

10 years ago...

2011-09-12T14:32:00.006-06:00

I know everyone has been thinking about the things that happened 10 years ago...September 11, 2001 was a HORRIBLE day...but as I reflected the last couple days...I couldn't help but just cry...it was a lot that just hit me I guess??? I don't know???

For me 10 years ago was me preparing for a wedding...with my future hubby being 1300 miles away :( It wasn't easy...but in that summer...I made 2 trips to Utah, and Ryan made 2 trips to Minnesota. You know...that was BEFORE the disaster, when flying wasn't such a big deal...security wasn't so big or such a headache...your family/friends could actually GO to the gate with you and wait for your flight to board...and tickets were CHEAP!!!

Here is our engagement picture that was taken on August 13, 2001...when Ryan had flown to Minnesota to propose...And after his trip to propose...I had to go out to Utah one more time to make final plans, do the bridal shower, and of course SEE my fiance sometime before October 20, 2001. :) :) :)
So my sister and her family had planned a trip out to visit their family over Labor Day weekend...so the beginning of September...this was me as we were landing in Utah...anxious to see Ryan!!! (sorry it's a picture of a picture in my scrapbook)
I was out for a little over a week...and had to say good-bye on Sept. 9, 2001...where we waited together at the gate for the plane to board...and check out how "happy" we were...not really happy to be leaving each other, but happy knowing the next time we saw each other it would be for our WEDDING!!!
So here goes the next thoughts and events that come to mind. I got home to Minnesota late on Sept. 9th...went to work the next day (Monday)...everything normal and good. Then again to work on Tuesday morning (Sept. 11, 2001)...I was driving to deliver something at the "branch" of the bank I worked at...when I heard on the radio that a plane had crashed into a tower in New York...I didn't think much of it...until a little while later I hear that another plane hit the other tower...I was a little nervous...but again didn't think much because it was in New York...and I was in Minnesota!!! Well I got back to the department I worked at...and the radio was on...people were looking online...and that's when we heard about the Pentagon...Flight 93 into the field...and more info on the World Trade Center towers. I was beginning to get a little more freaked out...and just went home right after work...where my parents were in the living room with the t.v. on. EVERY channel had shots of what happened...picture after picture...video after video of all the events and planes flying into the buildings. It was now about 5-6 p.m in Minnesota...and there was BIG talk about "...What is happening?...What is going to happen?...WHY are there planes crashing??...Who is behind this??...What will the do to the country in weeks/months to come??..." and so on. Then I heard talk about gas/oil prices...they mentioned gas prices going as high as $12 a gallon I remembered. Well when I heard that I just cried...and cried and cried...HOW were Ryan and his family supposed to be able to afford driving from Utah to Minnesota for the wedding??? What else would happen between Sept. 11 and Oct. 20, when we were supposed to be sealed for time and all eternity. What if something worse happened and that never happened?? It was a LOT of thoughts and what-if's going through my head...it was scary. But mostly it was all thoughts about ME ME ME...and not much about the people in the actual tragedy in New York.

Well...obviously nothing more happened...Ryan and his family were able to drive to Minnesota...and we were married as planned!!!!
But over the last 10 years it's given me time each anniversary of Sept. 11th to think about all those people. The suffering, the tears, the heartaches, the trials...I just couldn't imagine.

Yesterday...(well really all weekend)...I watched some of the shows and news programs that were on remembering the events of that day. And then hearing the stories or interviews with people who survived...or the family members who are still alive WITHOUT their loved ones. And my heart hurt for them. I couldn't imagine what they've been through...and with those thoughts I began to realize what I have...and what I need to be thankful for.

First of all...my AMAZING husband...who even through all my tears and thoughts 10 years ago, calmed me down...made me realize it would be ok...and to just take things a day at a time. Well not much has changed...he still does all those things...but our love for each other has grown SO much. I could NOT do this without Ryan...I would be NOTHING without him. So even though I don't show him as much as I should...and don't tell him enough how much he means to me...I really do love him more then anything...and I thank my Heavenly Father for blessing me with such an amazing man who loves me and our kids more then we can explain!!! I love you Ryan...

And then I realize how truly blessed I am for having these 3 BEAUTIFUL children. None of them were around 10 years ago for those tragic events. But seeing their thoughts, feelings, and hearing their questions when the shows were on. I realize how important it is for Ryan & I to explain it to them. Talk it out with them, so they will know. But I think of all those kids who are without parents...or those parents who lost children...and I am SO grateful that I have 3 healthy, happy kids who keep me going...even when it is NOT easy. I wouldn't trade it for the world...and I hope they all know how truly grateful I am for them!! I love my Klous, Aysha May, and Kyson!!! My babies!!!
Anyways...this is long...and it's been a LONG time since I've blogged on here...but I've had so many thoughts the last few days...I had to put them somewhere. I am so blessed and lucky to be alive...to have the husband/kids and family that I have. The knowledge to know that we're all safe...and even when we pass on from this life...that we WILL be able to be together again. And that this life is NOT the end. Such great blessings!!!

10 Commandments to Please your Wife...

2011-02-25T23:20:00.002-07:00

This was on Dr. Phil today...I didn't see it...I looked it up online...and read about some of it...but my sister-in-law posted these...and I thought it was GREAT!!!
There are some times that us as women don't feel like we're noticed...appreciated...loved...or cared about...so seeing these ideas were quite impressive!! I know I have a hubby who is AMAZING...(as most wives would say)...but I really think I do!!! I see other people or mostly women with their husbands...and I come home and squeeze Ryan a LOT tighter because I'm so grateful for what I do have to come home to!!! So he does good on most of these things...most of the time!! There's always room for improvement for each of us in relationships...so after sharing these...maybe Dr. Phil will come up with some for our husbands too!?!? Who knows!?!?!?
Here are the 10 Commandments to Please Your Wife!!! Wives...feel free to copy and paste and share them with your hubbies!! Maybe post them somewhere he can see them!! HA :)

‎10 Commandments to Pleasing Your Wife

1. Thou shalt give her Free time

2. Thou shalt remember the small things

3. Consistently find new ways to say I love you (ie. run her bath water)

4. Thou shalt chip in...

5. Thou shalt help with kids

6. Thou shalt embrace the art of foreplay

7. Thou shalt respect her schedule

8. Thou shalt send her roses... just because

9. Thou shalt always remember Golden rule (you can be happy, or you can be right - your choice)

10. Thou shalt always take her side

I love ZUMBA!!!

2011-01-23T19:54:00.002-07:00

So I started the "work-out" blog...Burn Becki's Belly Fat...but not everyone checks it out...so I'll post on here too and then maybe it'll bring more people over?!?! Who knows...But it's been REAL helpful for me to have it...and I've been inspired by more people then I thought I would!!!

A couple months ago...I started going to Zumba classes at the rec center. It's a Latin dancing exercise class...and I LOVE IT!!! It's very addicting...and even though you don't know what you're doing...or how to follow the moves...it's just FUN!! The funnest hour of exercise I've ever done...you don't even realize it's exercise...or that it's been an hour...and I'm loving it!!

So a couple weeks ago a girl I know did an order thing for Zumba stuff...I got this CUTE hat!! At least I think it's cute...and Kyson does too!!

My little ZUMBA baby!!
See how HAPPY it makes me!!! I LOVE ZUMBA!!!
And all the kids wanted their pictures taken!!! So here's Mommy & Klous...
And Mommy & Aysha May!!
And of course...Mommy & Kyson...
Zumba is GREAT...and if anyone wants to try it out...there's a free class I go to on Thursday nights...we've invited lots of new people...and they're getting addicted too!! It's great...I've seriously thought a lot lately about doing my own class or something...but just haven't gotten there...maybe if I get enough people interested and learn enough of the dances!! It's GREAT!!! Let me know if anyone wants to join us!!! Thursdays in Orem...8:30-9:30 pm!!!

New weight-loss blog...

2011-01-06T19:46:00.001-07:00

Hey everyone!!
I just wanted to post it on here and let you all know that I have started a new blog this year...I really need to get in shape and be where I want to be...so I decided I needed to blog about it and be accountable and post what I'm going through...feeling...and doing.
So anyways...the blog is open and I want you all to check it out...and leave comments...thoughts...advice...anything you'd like. And if you'd like to join me on this journey...feel free!!! I hope you enjoy...and I know I'm already feeling encouraged and loved through my few posts!!!
Check it out!!! BURN BECKI'S BELLY FAT

Our baby Kyson is ONE...WOW....

2010-12-20T18:33:00.003-07:00

I really can't believe it...it's been a crazy, tough, stressful, hard year...but at the same time it's been SO worth it...so fun...such a good year too. Kyson is ONE today...and it's hard to believe we don't have a newborn baby at our house!!! Don't get me wrong...I do LOVE it...cuz my kids usually sleep through the night...and entertain themselves...and so many other things!!!

But our baby boy was so sweet and precious that day he was born....
And as you can imagine...nothing has changed. He is the most calm...content...happy...loving...silly...sweet...AMAZING baby ever. He doesn't care if people are ONLY playing with him...he doesn't care if he has all the attention...he just wants to do his thing...and he's good!! I love my Kyson...he's helped me learn a lot of things over the last year...not always easy lessons...but it's been so worth it!! I love you kiddo...HAPPY 1st BIRTHDAY!!!!

Aysha turned TWO :) :) :)

2010-11-30T15:30:00.003-07:00

Our little Princess turned 2 last week...November 24th. It's hard to believe that it's been two years already...and that our baby girl is walking, talking, whining, dramatic, and everything else that comes along with a 2-yr old girl!!! She's just as beautiful as she was the day she was born!!!
She's just added some more hair, teeth, and ATTITUDE!!! I love this little lady...our family wouldn't be complete with our little Aysha May!!! LOVE YOU baby girl!!!

Klous' 4th Birthday!!!

2010-10-13T22:12:00.002-06:00

Well crazy to think...but our little man Klous...turned FOUR...4...FOUR...yes 4 today. Seems like not that many years ago he was this...
But now he's like this!!!
Just as cute and smiley as ever...just a LOT more active...loud...and helpful!! Love my little man, and can't believe he's already 4. He had a great day though...and couldn't stop smiling it seemed. Presents, balloons, Daddy/Klous date, friends & family, and cake...what more could a kid want!!

Much needed UPDATE!!!

2010-06-16T22:36:00.010-06:00

Hi again...LONG time no posting...sorry :( This whole 3 kids, picture taking, living life, uploading pics, and blogging...just doesn't happen much. Sorry...I'm going to work on it...but for now, here is a BUTT LOAD...of pictures!!!
The kids are getting BIG...Kyson just had his 4 month check up, but will be 6 months on Sunday...oops...a little behind on that too!! But he's in the 97th percentile on his head...90th percentile for his weight and height!! He's 27 1/2 inches long and 19 lbs 9 oz!! BIG BOY!!! By far our biggest kid at this age...good thing he's so pinchable and cute!!!
Aysha is growing too...she's jabbering and trying soo hard to talk!! She copies Klous a lot, but not us so much...at least not when it's prompted!! She's got QUITE the attitude and drama...She's loving being able to play outside IF it's actually warm enough!! She's so dang cute and I can't help but smile when she bats her eyes at me and gives me her cheesy grin!!
Klous is wanting and waiting for NICE weather everyday...our neighbors have been out of town for the last couple weeks...and he's getting a little...ok a LOT...bored with just Mom...so we're trying to be creative!! Good thing we have a trip to look forward to next week!! (Minnesota)...but he's getting so big too...loving sports of course and playing and running and whatever else to use up his energy!!!
Okay...here are the pics!!!

So at the beginning of May...I was in the kids' room...the kids were all in the living room...Klous wanders in with me...then I hear Aysha say "UH OH"...and she comes in the bedroom with us as well...I don't hear much from Kyson so I figure everything is alright. I left him like this on the couch...

When I go back out into the living room...he's like THIS on the floor...must be the reason Aysha said UH OH...I asked Klous what happened and he was very quick to say he DIDN'T do it...so I asked Aysha if she took Kyson off the couch...and she walks away smiling and saying...UH HUH...little stinker!!!

Then there was this excitement on Mother's Day...Klous actually went up and sang with the other primary kids in our ward...and on his way back to sit with us...he apparently tripped and cracked his head on the corner of the wood or something?? He was screaming and being carried to us...when Ryan brought him out and back into me...he had this GOOSE EGG on his head...poor kid :( Luckily no major issues and no stopping him...he was right back to jumping, running, and playing like normal!!

This spring we also had a cute little nest in one of our trees by our place. Klous & Aysha thought it was SOO cool to see the baby birds and hear them chirping!!! See the little beak?!?!?
The mommy bird was pretty nervous coming to feed the babies when the kids were outside...didn't last too long when we would watch or see it...kids just didn't know how to be quiet!!! But it was fun and cute to watch...
UNTIL...May 24th...when we got 4 freakin' inches of snow...it was RIDICULOUS. That night before though, it had been chilly, and Klous wanted to see the baby birds...he was playing with Ryan and Ryan noticed one of the baby birds had been pushed out of the nest and was on the ground :( We didn't know what to do, and hoped the Mommy would still find it and take care of it...well then it got colder, snowed...Klous kept wanting to check on it and get a blanket for it :( poor kid...he was heartbroken...then when we woke up to snow...that was his first concern...wondering how the baby bird was...well yes...it was frozen and had died :( So we dug a hole in the dirt and buried it...so sad :(
But yes...this is our yard with WET, HEAVY, YUCKY snow...it's pretty in December at Christmas...but the end of May?? NOT SO MUCH...
We have also made a trip up to the aquarium in Salt Lake...it was fun...and the kids liked seeing the fishies!!!
We even saw Nemo :)
Mommy & Kyson :)
Playing around!!
Here's our penguins!!!
Kyson is getting so big...I thought time went fast with Klous...then with Aysha...but with Kyson...I really don't know what has happened. He'll be 6 months this weekend, and he's doing so many new things...so dang CUTE!!
Big man Klous!!
Chessy Aysha May!!!
Yes...so we have snow one day...then right back to the 70-80+ degree weather...OHHH...gotta love the weather!! So the kids enjoyed a nice, cool popsicle and Aysha TRULY enjoyed it!!
So so messy...
Then we got out the swimsuits...sprinklers...baby pool...and PLAYED!!! The kids thought it was great jumping with the sprinkler!!

Klous & Zack in their wash tubs!! It was so funny watching them fill it up and play in these big buckets!!

Aysha May LOVES to swing...
Daddy & Kyson...still silly!!!
Then we went to get ice cream at Maceys (grocery store)...and poor Aysha tripped and landed RIGHT on her mouth and face...her teeth went right into her lip and the blood just gushed out of it. :( It was so sad...luckily as I walked her to the bathroom to rinse it out...some EMT's were coming in and saw me, ran to see what was going on...and then ran to the ambulance to get stuff to wash it out, suck up the blood, and try to help. HUGE blessing!! But poor Aysha had such a fat lip and was SO distraught with it...so sad to see her like that :(
Our crazy kiddos...this is what we do when we have Zack stay overnight!! The kids get CRAZY!!!
Aysha wearing Daddy's work shoes...somewhere there's a picture of me just like this...only in MY daddy's shoes!!!

CHAMPIONS!!!

Klous LOVES Kyson and LOVES to play with him!!!
My beautiful babies!!!
ADORABLE!!!
Hope you liked the update...sorry again it's been so long :(

Kids...Kids...Kids :)

2010-05-03T14:11:00.004-06:00

Another update with pictures!! We had nice weather...then cold weather...then sunshine...then snow...where is spring and the SUNSHINE!?!?! I want the nice weather back...but oh well. Here are some cute new pictures of the kiddos!!

Aysha is definitely our little fashion-ista!!! So dang cute!!!
Gramma Judy started some blankets for the kids while she was here...then took them all apart...then said she'd finish them when she was at home...and send them out!! The kids LOVE them and sleep with them for naps and bedtime...it's so cute...and thank you thank you thank you Gramma!!!

Aysha carries hers around so cute...she's not so fond of the little hood on it though...
Klous is all smiles with his blue & white on...he picked it cuz it's like BYU!!! :) Silly kid!!!
Aysha was willing to give up her binki and say CHEESE :)
Kyson likes his while we're outside too...it's warm but lets a little breeze through the crocheted holes!!!
Klous & Aysha have always liked being helpers and holding Kyson...I don't know how much longer it'll last since Kyson is more wiggly and bigger now...but the older two still hold him whenever they get the chance!! And man...Aysha is SOOO jealous when Klous gets to hold him and she doesn't...so sweet...
Kisses for Kyson :)

Klous thinks he's big enough to sit Kyson up and burp him...lol :) A little scary when he wants to lay him back down...Kyson's gonna be TOUGH!!!
And they're all so cute when they play...I think Klous LOVES that his "buddy" will smile and coo at him...they're so cute together!!!
Aysha actually sat and let me play with her hair the other day...more then just doing a pony on the top!!!
Klous is getting so big and handsome...sure love my kiddos!!
I thought this was really funny...I love her face and she's saying CHEESE if you can't tell!! LOL :)
See what she let me do with her hair!! It's getting so long...and she looks so grown up with it like that!! So cute!!!
Love his laughs...wish this would happen more then the whining and tears and pouting...someday right!?!?! :) :) :) :)

Update...it's been a LONG time...

2010-04-21T22:04:00.008-06:00

Ok...so I've been REALLY bad at updating our blog lately...I'm sorry friends :) I'm also sorry for the picture overload on this post!! But we've been busy the last month or more...and I just wanted to give a quick synopsis of what's been going on!! Hope you enjoy it!! We're all good and healthy and just waiting for the NICE weather to come back!!!

We've gone to a couple movies...and we entertain Aysha with CANDY as you can see!!!
We got the kids a trampoline!! They LOVE it...and just jump whenever they can!! Definitely a great purchase!!! The whole family has fun with it!!
We've had friends over a LOT...and played outside!!

Aysha has inspected and checked out everything now that she's BIG and walking all over!!!
Made the kids pose for pictures...and Aysha is REAL thrilled about it!!
Kyson is just getting BIG...cooing and talking and trying to sit up when laying down...he'll be rolling soon I'm sure!! So many cute faces and expressions!!
Klous is my little man...a big helper at times and like his shirt says...a "little devil" at other times...I struggle at times!!
Kyson LOVES being outside...and he's such a good baby...just sits and entertains himself!!
Aysha is ALL attitude and I don't know what to do at times...but we still love her to pieces!!
We've been to the park...and had picnics outside with friends...
Swinging...
Walks in the wagon & strollers...
Aysha entertains herself when it's yucky weather and we can't go outside...she keeps me smiling too!!
Klous could just all day if I let him...but a kids gotta eat and pee and run too right!?!?!
Aysha likes to just run around on the tramp...hasn't quite gotten the "jumping" thing down!!
Then there was Easter!! Egg hunts...finding their baskets!! Klous' was in the dryer!!
Aysha's was in the cupboard things...
And Kyson's just on the floor!!!
Klous likes to teach his sister CRAZY things!! Like pulling all the toys out and climbing in the toy box!!
Oh my boy...he's just so dang cute!! LOVE his smiles...and he's getting so big already...the bouncy chair is shrinking I think!! ;)

We blessed Kyson in April too...special day for our baby boy!!
All ready for church and taking pictures quick before they were grumpy!!! Aysha, Klous, Kyson, & Zack!!
Buddies!! Handsome little boys huh!!
Jones family...with Grandma/Grandpa Pulham too...
JJ & her kids with us...(my sister) :) :) :)
Our little family...and yes...Grandpa Pulham thought it was funny to put my shoe on the shed...so annoying in ALL the pictures...UGH...
My handsome boy...LOVE him to bits!!!
COUSINS!!! Alyssa, Zack, Kyson, Klous, & Aysha...quick take the pic before they're all screaming!!!

Ok...hope that was a good update...I have more pictures too...but figured this was enough for tonight!! Sorry again it's been so long...and I'll try to do better!!!

Spring was here...

2010-03-07T19:45:00.005-07:00

Last week was BEAUTIFUL outside...and it was even better for the kids. They loved being outside all morning and then a little bit after naptime too!! So I had to get the camera out and take pictures of them playing...cuz they were so excited!!! We also had to get new sunglasses for Klous & Aysha...cuz they really don't like the sun in their eyes!!

Stud huh!!
Our purple princess!!!
Klous & his friend Summer love getting ALL the toys out and playing...from scooters, to bikes, to basketball, to soccer, to frisbees, to bubbles...everything!! I think they're ready for summer!!!
Aysha just thinks she's cool she can walk around and follow the "big" kids...and do her own thing too!!
Yes...this is my little girl...and she has a CRUSTY look!!! Love the eyebrows!!!
Klous is proud of his scooter skills!!
Mmmmm...this poptart is GOOD :)
Just sitting by Mommy!!! Beautiful little girl!!
Oh and we can't forget about Kyson...he likes going outside too!! He mostly enjoys the walks and just looking around...but he sure is handsome all bundled up!!
And ALL SMILES!!! Love my kiddos!!!
Then much to our disappointment...we woke up Friday morning to 8 inches of snow...yeah...from 50 degrees to 8 inches...great!!! Here's to hoping this week and the rest of the month will just clear up and get better!!! We're ready for WARM weather...just not mid-July weather yet!!!

Kiddos...

2010-03-04T20:29:00.002-07:00

The kids got these cute sweaters for Christmas...and I wanted to get their pictures taken...but let's be honest...pictures are EXPENSIVE...so instead...we put them on today and I did pictures!!! Our friends were sealed today, and had a luncheon afterwards...so we got them dressed "somewhat nice"...and they were so stinkin' cute if I must say so!!! Hope you like the pictures!!

Klous is getting SO big...and I love his smiles...he's been a little emotional and naughty lately...just testing his limits maybe?? I don't know...but at the same time, he's such a GOOD helper and willing to do whatever he can. So let's just get through the tough days and look forward to the good days!!
Aysha May...she's our princess...and man is she a drama queen at times!! I've told some people that I think I'd be okay with just one girl...although Aysha would like a sister I'm sure!!! But boy oh boy...I think I'd take the rowdy, crazy 3 yr old boy over the screaming, whining, crusty look giving, 15 month old girl!! We'll see how things go, but she sure has an attitude...but also can be so sweet and cute at the same time. She LOVES to follow Klous around and do whatever he's doing...and she's trying so hard to talk and get involved with our conversations!!!
And our baby boy...Kyson!!! He's getting so big and is about 2 1/2 months now...he's smiling and cooing and just so dang CUTE!!! He loves talking to Klous & Aysha...and anyone who will talk to him really!!! Just looks around and see what's going on...he's a good baby!!!
All our kiddos...so cute in their little sweaters...and smiles!!!
Aysha gives LOTS of hugs to Kyson...and Klous gives LOTS of kisses!! They're pretty cute together...and even though I'm stressed and tired and overwhelmed a lot of the time...I couldn't ask for better kids or anything more!! I just LOVE them!!!

Are they brothers???

2010-02-28T20:52:00.005-07:00

I've been putting Kyson in more of the outfits that Klous wore...and it's just crazy I think...funny how many memories it brings back of when he was a baby!! Anyways...I took a few pictures, because I wanted to be able to compare Klous & Kyson to each other and see if they really do look alike!! Obviously they're siblings, but I just think Kyson has his own look compared to the other 2...he's so much lighter featured...and has blue eyes I think...so it's interesting!! But I just wanted to share some and see if you guys think they look alike and if you can tell who is who!! Good luck!!!

Just their staring expressions...

And my handsome boys in the church clothes!!

And then the jammies!!!

Ya...I think they're related!!!

Uplift...to anyone that wants/needs it...

2010-02-23T14:14:00.002-07:00

I took Mom up to Salt Lake this last Sunday to see Music & the Spoken Word...she had never been before...so we got to go see it and she was thrilled!! I've been a couple times and am just in awe every time. This was extra special in a way though, because a couple weeks ago our stake had a fireside thing and Lloyd Newell (spoken word guy)...spoke at it and is simply amazing!! Always has such great things to say and gets it across so simple. He also informed us what the topics were going to be for the next couple weeks, so we were excited to go up and hear about the "Untold Olympic Stories"...
It was truly uplifting to me and I wanted to share part of it with my blog friends...sometimes all we need to hear is that we're doing a good job...and we are ok people...and that we can be proud of what we're doing or have done. Here you go!!

..."one powerful message of the Olympics is that excellence is all around us. Most of it is never acknowledged with gold medals and elaborate ceremonies - in fact, it may never be acknowledged at all. But the truth is that countless ordinary people everywhere deserve the gold of praise and thanks for living quiet lives of decency and honor and goodness.
They may not compete on the world's stage, but they bless their loved ones and families; they may not perform in front of millions, but they reach out to help and improve the life of someone in need; they may not grab headlines, but they make meaningful contributions in their communities and nations. Long after the Olympic torch is dimmed, these stories of dedicated work, sacrifice, and excellence can be as inspiring as the feats that thrill us during the Olympics."
-Lloyd Newell, Spoken Word - February 21, 2010

So I hope that's an uplift to some of you and that you all realize that I think you're amazing...I look up to you and admire you for all of the individual people that you are and the lives you live. Thank you for being a part of mine and for being an example to me. I really do appreciate it!!

Too much Pepsi!?!?!

2010-02-17T21:20:00.003-07:00

Well I like Diet Pepsi...or Diet Coke...but lately have been buying Diet Pepsi because I knew Mom would be here and she doesn't do Coke...so anyways...we've gone through some Diet Pepsi ;) And when Mom went to my sister JJ's house a couple weeks ago, she bought more for up there...then brought it back here...Aysha LOVED the box...Mommy never buys the "cube" so Aysha thought it was pretty cool!! When it was full, she'd use it as her stool and climb up to see whatever she could...(mostly what was on the table that she wasn't supposed to have) :)...but then as it got emptied...she thought it made a pretty nice chair I guess!!! Silly girl...
But ever since she could suck on a straw...she's loved her pop!! Guess it got through to her when I was prego and she built a liking for it!! So she sometimes finds her own cans and "tries" to drink them!!! Guess we'll have a 3 generation liking of Diet Pepsi!!! What have I done!?!?! ;)

Klous needed to try too...even though he doesn't like pop or carbonation...so I don't know why. I think he really just wanted his picture taken!! You know...oldest child getting a bit jealous I think cuz he's not getting ALL the attention anymore!! ;) We still love our Klous boy!!!
And these are just a couple cute pictures of Kyson...he's getting to be so much more alert and recognizes voices and sounds and his name a little I think!?!?! But he's more fun now and doesn't just sleep all the time!!!
He even smiles if you're lucky...just don't expect it all the time...cuz he WON'T do it if you really want to see it!!!

LoVe :)

2010-02-15T23:05:00.004-07:00

The kids got to wear their Valentine's shirts on Saturday, because no one would really see them on Sunday...and can't obviously wear them to church!! So anyways...got them all dressed and did pictures BEFORE the did anything else!!! We were going to IKEA and I wanted to get them done...Aysha was moody and not cooperating because she hadn't had her morning nap...so yeah...so "good" picture of all 3 kids together...but oh well....these are pictures of my 3 amazing kiddos!!! I LOVE THEM!!!

Kyson is getting so big, and I can't believe he'll be 2 months already this week...he's smiling and cooing more and it's so dang cute...even though he isn't so willing to share his smiles ALL the time.
Our little man...Klous is getting so big and really turning into a little man!! Love this kid!!!
And our princess...Aysha is stubborn and gives you looks...but she is so stinkin' sweet and cute all at the same time. LOVE HER!!!
And my little "eligible bachelor" :) Couldn't be happier with this baby...he's doing well being the 3rd child and not always having a lot of attention!! Love my baby boy!!!
And yes...they love each other...couldn't ask for better kids...I LOVE THEM!!! More then I can say...
Hope you all had a great Valentine's day with those you love!!!

Growing and fun pictures :)

2010-01-29T17:13:00.005-07:00

Here are some more pictures of the kids and some things we've been doing. It really is crazy here and I'm grateful for having Mom around. It sure is nice having that extra set of hands and someone else to help the kids when I'm attached to the baby or needing to help him. But I have tried to at least take a few more pictures and get things to remember!!

Here's Kyson on Christmas with his new outfit...
Then I put it on him this morning...and he's not so little in it anymore...this time it's the outfit that is actually little!! Crazy what 6 weeks will do huh!! And check out those BIG eyes...just like his brother/sister!!
He's also become more alert and is noticing things...he likes to talk to his "friends"...these are the fish on his swing that he would just stare at...
Cute huh!! Love his wrinkly forehead...looks like a little old man!!
Klous is such a big helper...he's a stinker at times too, but he sure loves his baby brother. He's always wanting to hold him and helps me burp him...and he's just CUTE with him. Kyson is lucky to have such a great one!!
And here's our "princess"...who isn't always such a princess. Especially lately...oh my how the drama has started. I'm really ok with having only 1 girl I think!! As rowdy and rambunctious little boys are...I think I'd take that over the screaming and throwing herself on the floor and DRAMA...yikes!! All I did was do her hair and try to take a picture...and this is the reaction I get...
Then it's back to Kyson and talking to his friends...this is the cute bouncy chair Gramma & Papa got him...and he's loving it...as are his siblings!! Aysha tries daily to climb in it and bounce...and Klous has to tell her it's NOT a trampoline!! But Kyson likes his toys on it and just stares!!

Here's my helpers...not always the best...but the good times luckily out weigh the bad ones!! Thank goodness...Klous is just getting so big...and Aysha isn't far behind...she tries talking so much and being SO big...Klous just has to do everything himself and share all his GREAT IDEAS with us!! Cute kids!!
And my baby again...sad to see him already out-growing clothes...but it was bound to happen!! I just want him to stay little and curl up and cuddle on my chest...that's my favorite thing I think!! So little and sweet...smell so good...LOVE the baby smell!!
And here's how sweet the kids are to Kyson...Klous usually is all the time...
And Aysha really tries...but she just hasn't quite figured out the "SOFT" thing...she's learning though and does love giving hugs and open mouthed kisses!!
MY FAVORITE...look at my little dimpled man!! So glad I clicked the camera at JUST the right time!! The dimples don't always show and certainly not for long...so this was perfect!! Such a handsome little boy...and those dimples will get the girls!!!
And my kiddos...couldn't ask for more. As stressed, tired, frustrated, overwhelmed, and purely exhausted as I am at the end of the night and week...I'd be so sad and lost without these kids. Truly blessed to have what I have.

Just some pictures...

2010-01-20T22:26:00.005-07:00

I've been slacking at posting pictures or anything for that matter...but I'm sorry...I'm having a TOUGH time still adjusting...I feel like I've constantly got a baby on my boob...changing a diaper...burping the baby...getting food for the other kids...trying to remember to eat something myself...and maybe having a couple minutes to sit by myself...but not very likely. So I'm sorry for the lack of posts or pictures...my time is being taken over by other things...

We've enjoyed having Kyson with us though...and he's already growing and changing...I hate how fast that goes and I'm trying to enjoy it. Klous & Aysha love him and have to know what's going on with him ALL the time...Aysha especially...she's constantly trying to be "helpful" and stick his binki in his mouth...or eye...or forehead...or nose...while jabbering at him and then looking at me and saying..."yyyaaaaa"...it's cute!!
I can't believe how much Kyson looks like Klous in these clothes...I didn't think he really looked like Klous that much...but when I put outfits on him...brings me back to when Klous was so so little. Handsome little man!!

Ryan likes to make Aysha have crazy hair after her baths...and this one says it all. She is definitely our WILD child...and has quite the personality...I'm loving seeing it come out...but struggling with having to deal with her and Klous when they get in their MOODS...ugh!!!
Probably one of her pity parties here...has a lot of those lately...thought that wouldn't start so much til she was a teenager...man was I wrong!!!
Another outfit that we put on him that he looked JUST like Klous...I'll have to find pictures of Klous and see the similarities!!

Oh he's so cute...all scrunched up like that!!
Daddy turned 30 on January 7th...wasn't anything special or exciting...I felt back that I didn't plan anything or really think much of it...but guess I was preoccupied. He didn't want anything done, so whatever...just kept telling me..."it's just another day"...so we just made him a strawberry cheesecake thing...and Mom made a yummy dinner...and that was our evening. Happy 30th Babe!! Maybe next year will be a BIG party!!
This is funny...Aysha was in taking a nap one day...and I thought I had heard her...so I went to look...and nope, sound asleep still...but this is what I found. Do you see Aysha in there anywhere??? WHERE IS AYSHA!?!?!?
She really is in there...but I had a hard time figuring it out!! Then I picked out her little legs...see the pink pants?? Her face is under the bunny...and she's just sound asleep under there...silly girl!! Trying to blend in with all her animals and blankies!!
Klous loves his sister at times...when she cries he wants to hold her and comfort her...but that's only when he's not the reason she's crying...you know cuz it's suddenly COOL to tackle her or belly bump her or push her over or kick her down...FOR NO REASON AT ALL...oh why can't he just be nice???
And our little Aysha May...she's getting big and is so stinkin' cute with her little piggies...gotta love the kiddos!!!

Protecting my Kids...and my sanity!!!

2010-01-18T14:41:00.003-07:00

Some of you may recall these first 3 pictures from last year...and some of you even came to my rescue to help at our time of need. These are pictures from February 2009 when our poor little Aysha May had gotten a cold which then turned into RSV...it was a HORRIBLE time for me and our entire family. I blamed myself for a LOT of it and couldn't get over it for awhile...watching her have to be taken to the hospital every 4 hours for 3-4 days was MISERABLE and I didn't even go with her...but it broke my heart to see her struggle to breathe, eat, sleep, and everything else. Look how sad and sick she looks in these pictures...

So for that very reason Ryan & I have made some BIG, TOUGH decisions this year. And since we have another newborn this year...I'm not going to back down. This doesn't apply to everyone that looks at this blog, but those of you who live close and like to come visit...this is directed at you. We don't want to be rude or anything, but the only was to get it across, I think, is to be blunt and honest with everyone. So therefore...we are having NO VISITORS until we decide it's safe and okay...if you want to get a hold of us you'll need to call or email or something??? We aren't willing to put our children's health at risk or give them the chance of getting more sick then they will on their own...so I hope you will be able to respect our wishes and keep your distance. We've been avoiding church with the baby, and will for a couple months...and we take turns going places or doing things because we're not willing to risk things.

I hope it's not too much to ask and that you'll all understand...seeing my baby struggle so much last year broke my heart...and I'm NOT willing to go through that again for my stupidity or lack of courage to put my foot down...I want my happy, healthy kids ALL winter long!!! Look at the pictures and you'll understand why...they're simply adorable!!!

What an AMAZING woman I married!!

2010-01-03T15:38:00.003-07:00

So I know this is Becki’s blog and she is the one that does everything on here but I figured that this would be a good place to “post a praise” of her. I am so lucky to have Becki as my wife. She is the best thing that has ever happened to me. Since I have been able to be side by side with her over the past 2 weeks, since Kyson was born, my love and appreciation for her has grown. I have always told her that I know that she has to do a lot and has a busy job, being home with the kids all day. I have always tried to make it a point to let her know that I appreciate what she does. Well over the past 2 weeks since I have been home and she has been trying to recover and take care of Kyson I have tried to take care of Klous and Aysha more. Now I have a little more of an understanding of what Becki goes through day in and day out. With the exception of “reminding” Klous not to jump on and off of his bed and “reminding” Aysha to be “soft” with Kyson they are pretty good kids, but what a job. They are non stop and always want you to do something with them, which leaves no time for just sitting down without a constant plea to play. I love my kids and that has grown over the past couple of weeks as well but they are definitely more then a “full time job”.

I want to thank you Becki for everything that you do for our family. I have noticed that no matter what the kids do or how frustrated or upset you may be with them, it doesn’t take long for you to be playing or laughing with them again. To me that is a sign of a GREAT mother. Thanks for your love for me and the kids and again for all that you do for us. I also want to thank you for bringing Kyson into our family. I know that you have had to go through a lot with this pregnancy and the past year has been really trying for you. Thanks for being willing to really SACRIFICE to bring him into our family.

Becki you are by best friend and making the decision to marry you, was the best decision that I have made in my life. You have helped me to become a better person and I am eternally grateful to you for that. It is a great blessing to know that I can be with you for eternity. Becki you are a truly amazing person and I love you with all of my heart. Thanks again for all that you do. I love you!!

Christmas in a Nutshell...

2009-12-30T23:24:00.004-07:00

Christmas this year was different and special and fun and a lot more all at the same time. Having a newborn baby really made it feel different for me and brought an extra special feeling into our house, I thought at least!! It was fun to be together as a family and spend some time with extended family...even though it's always hard for me being so far away from my family back in Minnesota.
Alright...the kids got to open their "Christmas jammies" on Christmas Eve, and they were pretty excited about it!! Well Klous was, because he got to "help" both Aysha and Kyson open theirs!!
Aysha chillin' on the couch...she thinks she's SO big sitting up there!!!
Kyson's ADORABLE jammies!!! Isn't he just cute!!!
I wanted to get his feet, cuz they're so cute...but when I would pose them he'd move them...but then he sneezed and I clicked just at the right time!! Aren't they cute :)
Klous was so proud of his new Buzz jammies!! Can't you tell from his expression :)
Our fancy tree with the presents!!
We let the kids each pick ONE more present to open as well...that's our compromise (mine and Ryan's)...cuz he grew up opening them all Christmas morning, but I grew up opening ALL our presents from family on Christmas Eve...so this is what we agreed on!!
Klous picked his race car, so here he is opening it!!!
And Aysha got her baby...it's even a baby BOY...just like Kyson :)
And Kyson got an amazing pack of diapers...WOO HOO :) What do you get a baby that is 5 days old??? Just the necessities :)
Aysha wanted her babies binki :) Silly girl!!!
Sweet little boy :)
Klous on Christmas morning...he was pretty excited that Santa actually came!!!
AND that he ate his cookies and drank the milk...but he was most excited about the note Santa left for him!!! We still have it :)
Aysha and her Santa presents :)
Isn't she so big!! Walking her baby :)
Klous got a knock off of the Wii...except this one TEACHES you things!! He's learning numbers and colors and letters...and playing sports all at the same time!! He seems to enjoy it!!!
Kyson in his cute Christmas outfit...made him look like a little man!! I just think he's adorable :)
Then we headed to Grandma's house to open presents there...the kids of course got even more spoiled!! Grandma made cute quiet books for the kids...with pictures of themselves and Jesus for them to look at during church. They were pretty cute!! Aysha was proud of it and liked looking at herself!!!
And Klous got a Zhou Zhou pet or whatever they're called...the hamster thing!! Since we've brought it home Aysha has played with it more I think...but at least it's getting played with :)
Kyson just sleeps and eats and poops...that's the extent of his Christmas!! But he's still cute and fun to look at and hold!!!
We hope everyone else had a great Christmas...it was good for our family and we couldn't have asked for more!!!

Home, Tired, and trying to Adjust :)

2009-12-27T22:55:00.006-07:00

We got to come home last Tuesday...and it was WONDERFUL to do so. I was ready for my own bed, my own couch, my own house, and seeing MY kids!!! After getting the ok from the pediatrician and getting Kyson's IV out of his head...we got him ready and dressed to come home...nothing special...just a pair of jammies!! And the cute little hat we got at the hospital!! It has a jingle bell on the top...

Then we had to of course pose him and take pictures in the stocking from the hospital as well!! He's just too stinkin' cute I think!!
Our BEST present for Christmas this year!!

Then it was finally time to go home!! All bundled up and ready to go...
We got home and the kids were extatic. They were so so happy to see Daddy AND Mommy AND Kyson all come home!! Ryan had been coming home at nights to help with bedtime...but now all of us were home and they were very happy!!
Aysha couldn't wait to get that thing out of the carseat...so we tried having her hold him...she did alright for a minute...
They're being great big brother and big sister!!!
Then she had enough...and was ready to push him off...
Klous was very concerned and wanting that bandaid/gauze thing off his head...so finally we gave him his bath after coming home...don't I look beautiful!! Oh so wide awake!!!
We got him all cleaned up and bandaid free!! And of course in his Christmas shirt!!!
Klous has been an amazing big brother!! He just wants to help and hold him whenever he can. The first morning we were home he was up at 6 to come check on Kyson and see what he could do to help...ADORABLE...whenever Kyson cries he's right there telling him it's ok...and he's always saying how cute he is...except when he stinks ;)
Aren't they proud siblings!!! Man I love these kids!!!
Here's our little man...looking a little yellow...but not too bad!!
The most important people in my life...I couldn't ask for more and I really realized this last week how truly blessed I am...I have an AMAZING husband who will do anything for me and 3 amazing kids that I love more then ever...I'm one lucky girl...
Then we tried to put him in the stocking we made...didn't work too well...he looks real squished :)
Here's Klous being a great big brother again...he didn't want to take a nap unless he got to hold Kyson too...so we laid them both down and got these adorable pictures...
So sweet...
Then this goes to show how truly tired we've been!! Shauna & Zack were over and Aysha refused to take a nap...so Ryan went in her room with her...(he fell asleep on Klous' bed)...and Zack entertained Aysha...ALL of the stuffed animals in the house were in with Aysha...it was pretty hilarious!! This is what happens when a 4 yr old is left in charge!!!
It's been a long, crazy, tiring week...but we're slowly adjusting and realizing how much more work it is with another baby...and when the kids out number the adults...it's tough. We're trying to just take it a day at a time and figure things out!! We can do this!!!

Kyson day 2...

2009-12-21T20:45:00.003-07:00

It's been a crazy 24+ hours...trying to get back into the swing of having a newborn again and adjusting to all the changes. Kyson had a little bit of a "grunting" problem that they were trying to figure out and get under control. They had to do blood work, chest x-ray, labs, and finally put an IV in his little head :( The nurse warned me that it would look a LOT worse then it really is, and she was right. I'm just glad I didn't have to watch or see them put it in. With the grunting, they didn't know if he was having a tough time getting oxygen or breathing...so the tests they did would help solve the mystery. Or so they hoped...everything came back fine and there were no issues, but the grunting didn't stop. It lessened, but didn't STOP...so they were confused and still are a little...now he also has low blood sugar we're trying to get back up...and also he quivers and shakes randomly. So we're just trying to get things figured out and under control, so that we can all go home tomorrow and be together as a family!!!

Here's my poor baby with the IV in his head...doesn't it look terrible :(
And at the same time he came in, he had all the battle wounds from having blood drawn :( Poor kid...
But he was awfully cute this morning when he came in STARVING and was gonna chew off his fingers!! This is how he was sucking on them...I think he'll be a hand/finger sucker and not so much a binki...but we'll see!!

Once we all got up and had rested a bit...Grandma brought the kids over to visit!! Klous was of course happy and excited...and Aysha was a bit more pleasant!! She had more of her personality showing and seemed to "enjoy" being here!!! I think she looks so cute in this picture sitting there...she thinks she's so big!!
Klous just loves holding him...but was sure to ask me when he came in..."Mommy, why is Kyson's head all screwed up?" Cute huh!!
Zack got to come over too and meet his new cousin...he was just as excited to meet him and hold him...they're such good big boys!!!
And finally tonight...he was bright eyed and bushy tailed :) Such BIG eyes for a bit...then he was fast asleep again!!

He doesn't like the flash so much of the camera, but he sure was cute looking around and just watching things...Kyson sure has won my heart and nothing can change that!!! Here's to hoping everything gets better and we can go home tomorrow!!!

Kyson Robert is HERE :) :) :)

2009-12-20T21:21:00.005-07:00

We came into the hospital at around 2:00 AM this morning...it's been a LONG weekend...not much sleep for me or Ryan and now we have NEW baby!!! We got here, was monitored for an hour, and luckily the nurse was able to convince the Dr to keep me, even though I wasn't really progressing much on my own. Got admitted about 3-3:30 and was on my way to having a baby today!!!
Things progressed kinda slow...I came in at 3 cm and made it to about a 5 on my own...I got the epidural around 6 AM and that just slowed EVERYTHING...so finally the nurse talked to the on-call Dr and got him to ok the pitocin and break my water...that was around 9:30 this morning I think...as you can see from the picture below I was VERY tired and looked oh so beautiful...I could hardly keep my eyes open and Ryan thought it would be good to take a picture...thanks babe :)
Once I got the 4th dose of the pitocin, the contractions were VERY strong and consistent...I could feel them still on one side, so they came in and gave me more epidural to numb my left side...I went from 5 cm to 7 cm in about 45 minutes...then just after I got the 4th dose of pitocin I got checked and was at a 10 and he was crowning...surprise surprise...it went FAST with the drugs!!! Just like the other 2...so the nurse called in the troops and didn't want to leave my side just in case he came out on his own!! By the time the Dr actually got in here to deliver...half of Kyson's head was out...and they told me to NOT sneeze, cough, or laugh...he said to do a little push so I pretty much sat up and he said...STOP STOP STOP...and Kyson was out!!!
Kyson Robert Jones was born at 12:08 PM on 12-20-2009!!! He weighed in at 7 lbs 8 oz and is 20 inches long!!! And his head measures BIG...another surprise right...cuz my kids don't have BIG heads or anything!!! He has really long arms and fingers and big feet!! Not much hair, and kinda looks like an old man!! But he's dang cute!!!

I didn't really think I'd have much of a bond or relationship with him, just because of how it's all gone the last 9 months...I got him in my arms and on my chest, and my heart melted. So amazing how you can just have SO much love for someone you just saw and met...I don't know how I'll be able to have enough love for another kid...but I pray for help and strength!!!
Daddy was awfully excited to have this little guy out...it's hard for him to bond or anything inside...so he's always anxious for delivery day!!! He's so cute with him too and is very happy to have him here!!!
Grandma Jones & Auntie Shauna helped with the kids today...and Shauna brought them over before naps so they could watch the bath...Klous was SO excited about baby Kyson being here and couldn't wait to see him!! He's such a good big brother and so sweet...Aysha isn't so sure what to think or do I don't think...she just stares at him!!!

Watching the bath!!
Klous loving his baby brother "baseball guy" :) He's so sweet with him!!!
Aysha May being a brave big sister and "holding" him!!!
Grandma and the kids...can't believe I have THREE...Yikes :)
Our little family...aren't we cute :)
Here's our little man...eyes wide open!!!
Peeking...
And he's out...sleepy baby...
Here's to hoping it's a good couple nights and we're able to rest and relax in the hospital before we're home and back to reality!!!
Thank you to everyone who has offered or done acts of service to help our family...you are greatly appreciated and will not go forgotten!! We love you all and are so so happy to have Kyson here with us and in our family!!!

Maybe today???

2009-12-19T09:11:00.001-07:00

Well I was up most of the night with contractions again...and really they started at about 7:00 last night...went on and on and on...then would slow down then pick up again...then slow down...but have been going since then. Some harder then others...but we'll see...I hate the debating of should I or should I not go into the hospital...because I'm real nervous about how fast it goes for me. I don't want to be one of those ladies on the news who didn't get to the hospital in time and had it at home...so I just don't know when you go and when you don't. Anyways...today might be the day...we'll see if it keeps up...and what happens...but if not today, at least I know it's on Monday!! Good luck to us and stay tuned for pictures of our new bundle of joy in the next few days!! Merry Christmas to everyone!!!

Maternity Pictures...

2009-12-13T17:40:00.003-07:00

Well...I never thought I'd actually post BARE belly pictures of myself...but it's amazing what photo shop can do to someone's tummy!! We've got a friend that wanted to do maternity pictures for their photography business...and I got nominated!! I was hesitant at first...but figured what the heck...I'm really quite impressed with how they turned out and that it really wasn't that bad!! And I have some amazing pictures to remember this pregnancy with. So here are a few that they touched up and I thought I'd share!!

Whole family...Aysha's not quite sure what to think of it all ;)
I love this one with our hands...
Wish my tummy really looked that nice...(it DOESN'T) too many stretch marks and battle wounds :)
Mommy & Daddy
My baby girl...
Family shot again...
Sweet...
My little man...
This is an amazing one I think...with the lighting and everything. Pregnancy really is a miracle and amazing how it all works out. Can't believe this is #3 and that it's almost over...makes me think about all that women go through and how everything works to bring these babies into the world. Crazy :)
I go in for our last Dr's appointment tomorrow morning (Monday)...and we'll see what he says...if I don't go on my own then I'll be induced on the 21st...so a week from tomorrow. Wish us luck...it's coming ready or not :)

37+ weeks...almost there...

2009-12-08T09:41:00.003-07:00

I'm only a couple weeks from meeting this little guy...so thought I better have Ryan take some more belly pictures. So here we are at 37+ weeks...went to the doctor yesterday morning again and I'm still dilated to a 3 and just doing "fine"...or so the Dr. says. He doesn't have to deal with the constant pain, uncomfortable feelings, hard kicks/wiggles cuz there's NO room in there, and everything else :) Oh well...it's all worth it in the end right??
Klous was trying to hide behind me, but ended up just looking silly :)
And don't mind my dorky face...but there's the belly...it's BIG and has popped out a lot in the last few weeks...will be induced on the 21st if I don't go on my own before that!! Wish us luck!! :)

Santa Claus is coming to Town :)

2009-12-06T10:22:00.004-07:00

The day after Thanksgiving, Santa Claus was flying into Orem in a helicopter...so we got the kids bundled up and headed over to the parking lot of the mall. It was a little chilly, but the kids had fun and were ready to see Santa!!!

While we were waiting, there were jugglers for entertainment...Klous thought it was cool seeing them juggle and balance things on their faces!!!
Then FINALLY, we saw the helicopter coming...Klous was awfully excited!!!
He was up on Ryan's shoulders and was waving at Santa!! You could see his white beard & glove even way up in the sky...it was kinda cool!!
If you look at the window...that white thing is Santa...he was waving at all the kids, it was neat!!!
I've never been that close to a helicopter when it lands, but it was stinkin' COLD...the wind and dirt and holy cow...our fingers instantly turned into icicles....brrr...but he was finally at the mall!!!
The helicopter landed, slowed down, and finally stopped the propeller...
And SANTA CLAUS got out...it was so exciting!!! Klous' eyes just got really big and wide...it was cute!!!
He made his rounds and said hello to the kids...and jingled his jingle bells...
As he walked past us, Klous was so disappointed and sad that he didn't stop to ask what he wanted for Christmas...so we had to tell him we'd come back and sit on his lap another day!! He thought for sure Santa would ask him though!!
So we waited til the crowds died down a bit and went Monday morning when Ryan was off...we got there just as Santa was starting, and it was nice...Klous was so excited to sit on his lap and tell him what he wanted. He brought his Christmas list book he made...we cut the toy pictures out of the Toys R Us catalog and made his list...we told Klous to only show him a couple things he wanted, but Santa was so sweet and went through the whole book with him!!
Aysha wasn't too fond of Santa!!! And Klous wouldn't really look at him, but didn't cry luckily!!! Just told him about all the toys he wanted!!!
Santa gave the book back to Daddy and then told Klous to be good...go to bed when Mommy & Daddy said on Christmas Eve...and to maybe leave out a snack for him if possible...like maybe some milk and cookies. So that's what Klous has been talking about now...being sure to leave a snack out!! It's so cute...
Then he was more then willing to pick a treat for him & Aysha...and of course Aysha was okay with that too :)
They enjoyed their suckers as we walked some more through the mall...it was a sticky mess, but it was fun to see how excited Klous was about it all!! He's getting so big and each year gets more exciting with him at Christmas!!!
That night, Daddy decided to try and rescue Aysha from the nightstand/front door/and lamp...but got a little too excited and kicked the leg of the couch. Really it wasn't on purpose...and it was a hard hit...and didn't feel good...the a couple days later this is what it looked like. You can see on his 2nd to last toe...how black/blue it is and his foot too!! Don't know if it was broken or not, but he was in some pain!!! Poor guy...he was just trying to help his princess :)

Crafts cuz we're poor :)

2009-12-02T21:47:00.003-07:00

Well I always laughed at my sister for being crafty and creative when it came to doing things for the holidays...but now I'm in her shoes...and she wasn't so weird I don't think!! Since it's gotten colder...and I have to try and entertain a 3 year old in the house ALL DAY LONG...time doesn't always go quick...and I can't just pack up and go shopping or anything cuz we don't have money. So then comes my creativity I suppose...these are just a couple things and I'm sure there will be more crafts to come...but thought I'd share!! Laugh if you want, but we've had fun!!

Thanksgiving crafts were fun...Klous liked making the turkeys and giving them to family and friends!!!
This isn't a very good picture, but it was fun doing these turkeys as a family!! The bodies are our feet...and the feathers are our hands...Klous thought these were pretty cool when they were done and put up!!! I was going to make one for the baby...but didn't know how to guess how big his hands/feet would be...so I just made my belly on my turkey a little bigger and labeled it...PREGO MOMMY...he'll have to make one next year!!!
And this year...we have NO room...NO energy...NO time...NO money...and so...this is our Christmas tree. We didn't have anywhere to put a real one...or even our fake one we have...so I went to Wal-Mart and found this styrofoam/posterboard stuff that was green. During a BYU football game Ryan & I drew it and cut it out...I've since pinned/taped it to the wall...and Klous, Aysha, & Daddy have all helped decorate it.
Klous is pretty proud of it and always wants to be the one to plug and unplug the lights...Aysha is fascinated with pulling the decorations OFF...which makes me glad I didn't put anything bigger up...or I'd be standing it up daily and who knows how many times a day...
And really...even though the camera is retarded and takes fuzzy pictures...I think it's kinda cute!!! Klous said we have to write Santa a letter and tell him there's no room to leave presents UNDER the tree...so just leave them on the floor in the living room!! Smart kid huh!!!
We'll see how many more Christmas crafts, cookies, and anything else I get done before this baby comes!!! 3 weeks and counting...

One year ago...(yesterday)...

2009-11-25T13:21:00.005-07:00

Well our little Aysha May turned ONE yesterday. It was quite a day...but we made it and had a pretty good birthday for her I think!! I spent some of the day thinking about a year ago of course...I wonder if all Mom's do that!?!?! Do you think about the day you delivered your baby and how it all went and what you were doing at certain minutes!?!?! I do...and it's interesting to reflect on them...but anyways...here are some pictures of our little princess joining our family a year ago "officially"...she was so so tiny...and just beautiful...(not so much can be said for Mommy though) :) :) :)

Klous was so excited to hold his baby sister and has been such an amazing big brother to her...we sure are lucky to have him as our BIG helper!! It's much needed...and Aysha sure adores and loves him!!!
And Daddy...what can I say...Aysha has been his little princess from day one...and I don't ever see that changing...he's an amazing dad and husband and I couldn't be any luckier. He keeps me going each day and takes over when he can tell I need a break...I love you babe and your kids adore you as well!!!
Here's our little princess...can't say she still looks like that though huh!!!
Gramma Judy was here a year ago too...that was a pure joy...and we can't wait for her to be out here again with this new baby...2 months of her help will be grately appreciated!!!
Now for yesterday...here's our Princess now...she's just a doll and we love her to death!! She's discovered her tongue and thinks it's cool to make noises with it!!!
Can't get enough of those eyes...so so pretty!!!
And I couldn't be happier with her hair actually growing...cuz the ponies just make her that much cuter!!!
She truly is a Princess...and she knows it...didn't mind wearing her tiara yesterday!! That was the last minute theme for the party...(thanks Auntie Shauna for the idea) :) :) :)
Mommy and the kiddos...crazy to think it's been a year...and in less then a month there will be another one...oh dear!! I sure do love them though!! Happy Birthday Aysha May!! We love having you in our family!!!

Family Pictures...

2009-11-18T20:22:00.007-07:00

Thanks to a great person Ryan works with, their wanting family pictures for their website, and us needing NEW ones done...we got some pretty cute pictures!! Kelly & Jeremy are truly amazing and are GREAT with their work...and touched these up and brought out some great colors!! We're really impressed...and hope you like them too...I didn't want to post ALL the good ones, because I want to use some for the Christmas letter...but here are a few decent ones!!!

Family shot...
Klous & Aysha...she actually wasn't crying...
Aysha May and her flowers...I LOVE the color in this one...
Klous playing with the leaves...so cute :)
Playing with Aysha...
And playing with Klous...
And the last family shot...well not really, but the one that I'm showing you!! Pretty cute family I must say!!!
Thank you so much Kelly and Jeremy for your work and help and everything!! The pictures are GREAT!!!

Better things...

2009-11-14T21:03:00.003-07:00

Thank you to all who commented and posted on my last post...I really do appreciate it. Although I'd really like to know who posts comments and remains "ANONYMOUS"???? That's a bit annoying...but whatever...please make yourself known if you're willing!?!?!?

Anyways...onto bigger and better things...thought I'd post some cute pictures of the kids!! They really do make me smile even amongst everything else in life!!!

Aysha had a bit of a BAD HAIR DAY the other night after bath time :) I told Daddy he better get pictures!!!
Check out that hair...ok so maybe the eyes are a little more noticeable :) Cute girl!!
Aysha & Klous were playing with hats the other day...I thought they looked pretty cute!!!
Can't really see it, but he is wearing a brown hat too...crooked of course!!
She's getting brave and trying to climb and walk and move more...so that means more accidents and face plants!! I don't know if you can really see it...but look at her cheek and check out the bruise...and the one just above her eyebrow...those happened in the same day!!!
And this is me when I was little and my parents had my pictures taken...I had a pretty bruised face...I guess the things that happen to you as a child happen to your children too :) :) :)
And finally this morning we woke up to a LITTLE bit of snow...and Klous was real excited about it!!! He ate his breakfast and then had to get dressed and ready to play in it!! There was only enough to wipe off the cars and make a few snowballs...but he had fun!!!
Him and Daddy had fun throwing them at Mommy too...not very nice huh!!
It's gonna be fun this winter with Klous!! But he'll have to get over and realize the way snow works in Utah...it comes and then melts in the same day usually!!! He wasn't real happy about that this morning...maybe we'll get some GOOD storms and he'll enjoy it more!!!

Can I vent!?!?!

2009-11-12T22:23:00.002-07:00

This is how I've been feeling lately...only I have one in the tummy too...can't tell if she does too or not!?!?!?!

Ok...I am aware that I have a TON of blessing and things to be grateful for in my life...but I am just not accepting them or enjoying them or appreciating them much lately. I'm so stressed, overwhelmed, frustrated, annoyed, upset, irritated, and just down right grumpy....I don't know what to do. I mean I have a few ideas, but I'm too dang stubborn or prideful to do them and move on. I just want to dwell on things for a bit I guess and have my pity party, then I'll move on I'm sure. I just can't handle things it seems anymore.

I mean my kids seem to drive me up the wall within the first 15 minutes of being awake in the morning...then things get ok...then it's naptime and they're BEYOND tired and I'm just as cranky...then Ryan comes home from work and I just can't handle the kids at all by that point. They don't even do anything specific...I just get annoyed...
Ryan comes home from work and I bite his head off...he loves me and accepts me and tries to put up with it, but I really don't know why or how he does it?? It drives me nuts that he has to work and can't stay home and help me more...but I really do appreciate all he does for our family and how he takes care of us so that I don't have to work. And I know if it was up to him he'd have his own business and own hours and lots of money...but unfortunately things aren't that way and we can't always get what we want. So here we sit...and I just have to accept and appreciate what I have.
Then I just get annoyed with people who act at times that they understand my situation and that they really do care...then something happens and it all SLAPS me in the face that they really could care less and don't really want to help in anyway...it drives me nuts. I know I have really great people around me who do care and would do anything...but for some reason those few that SLAP me in the face seem to outweigh the others.
I've struggled with this pregnancy from day one...I really hate to admit it and feel HORRIBLE about it...but I've tried to grow closer to the baby and bond and be excited and anxious to meet him and have him in our family...and yes, things have gotten better...but not completely. This was in NO WAY our plan or the way we expected things to happen...so the added stress and feelings just freak me out. I want this baby to know that I do love him...and that I will care for him like my other kids...but at the same time I feel so bad and guilty that Aysha didn't get her "baby" time...she gets so jealous and upset when I hold another baby or acknowledge another baby...what will she do when he's here CONSTANTLY!?!?! Adjust I hope!?!?!
I don't know...I'm just struggling lately I suppose...I have Aysha birthday on Nov. 24th...Thanksgiving on the 26th...Doctor appts every 2 weeks then EVERY week...Christmas shopping to get done...a house to clean and get ready for a new baby AND my mom coming to visit...a baby due Dec. 25th, but being induced the 21st hopefully...then Christmas...then New Year's...then my momma comes Jan. 5th. I am excited about all these things...but MAN...so much in ONE MONTH!?!?! I can do it right???
Ok enough venting...I just need to breathe I suppose and realize I'm a mom and a woman and I asked for all of this and I can do it...right??? It doesn't help that I've gotten this stupid depression crap with this pregnancy too, so I'm just down about EVERYTHING it seems...that's so not me. Snap out of it Becki...I wish it was that easy...just a pity party for myself...if you made it to the end...thanks for reading!!! I'm done now....

Halloween and some!?!?

2009-11-10T14:31:00.005-07:00

Well I'm a bit behind...yet again. Sorry...here are some of our fun pictures from Halloween and getting ready for it!! Klous got to plant pumpkins in Grandma & Grandpa Pulham's garden this year (Ryan's grandparents)...and Grandma put his initials on one pumpkin...so this was HIS pumpkin!!!
He wanted to help Daddy carve it...but wasn't so sure about the slimy insides...
he touched them...but wasn't too excited about it...
He wouldn't do it again...just one time!!!
Aysha wanted to help too...she just played with the top!!!
And thought it felt a little funny too :)
Carving the face...
And the finished product...pretty cool when it's lit up!!!
Klous posing by it...
And Aysha too :)
Aysha's little personality has really been coming out lately...she's definitely a girl and has a LOT of drama at times...her screams and squeals are something...but the giggles, kisses, smiles, and hugs make up for it!! She's been making funny faces lately too...and it's hard to catch them on camera...so here are just some cute pictures!!

We headed to Grandma Jones' work for a little Trick-or-Treating...here are the kids with her...
We went to Daddy's work too, but didn't get any pictures...oops...here's Aysha the day of Halloween though...she wasn't too sure what to think about the costume and hat!!!
They were all pretty cute and excited though!! Klous & Zack were Spiderman and Aysha a ladybug...our friends/neighbors Summer & Seth came along with us as well. She was WonderWoman and Seth was a giraffe!! CUTE kids!!!
Here's Klous & Aysha...he didn't wear the mask for very long...he couldn't really see...but he liked his BIG muscles!!!
And knocking on the doors...they all got PLENTY of candy...we're still going through and trying to get rid of it!!! Yay for holidays huh!!!

Fall fun...

2009-10-27T13:40:00.004-06:00

Last week I got a crazy bee in my bonnet and decided to rake up the backyard. It was quite a job, but the kids & I had fun...and when Daddy came home, he had fun too!! With the weather getting colder and winter just around the corner...we have to find something to do outside on the "somewhat decent" days!!! So here are some pictures of our adventures in the leaf pile and with the slide...Klous loved it, and I was surprised with how excited Aysha was about it as well!!! It was fun...even though it made me have contractions a bit and make the baby mad I worked so much!! Oh well...nothing happened!! Just some exercise!! Yay for me :)

Princess in the leaves :)
What cute kids huh!!

Klous like to get covered up!!
So handsome :)
I just love this face...had to share!! Those BIG eyes are amazing!!!
Oh and of course she had to taste them too :)
Klous helping Aysha down the slide!!
Jumping...

Concentrating so hard!!
Hi Mommy!!
He's getting so big :(

Mommy and the kiddos...it was a fun afternoon...and the fresh air felt nice...even though it turned our noses red!!!

8 years today...

2009-10-20T15:22:00.002-06:00

This picture isn't from our wedding, it's actually our engagement picture...but it works. I don't have any pictures on the computer from our wedding day. Anyways...this is Ryan & I 8 years ago in August...
And this is the most recent picture I have of just us together...I guess I could've posted a family picture...but I didn't...this is us in August of 2009...I guess it works out then huh with the pictures!!!
We're celebrating our 8th anniversary today...and I really can't believe it. It's crazy to look back on the last 8 years and think of all we've done, gone through, gotten through together, and accomplished. Yes we're still working on school...no we don't have our own house yet...our family is still growing...and I would LOVE to have a higher income and not have to stress so much about money. But really...I couldn't be happier...Ryan is amazing and loves me more then anyone. He puts up with so much from me and I don't really know how or why he does it sometimes. He's given me 2 beautiful babies (and one on the way)...and I couldn't be happier. I want him to know how grateful I am for him, for all he's taught me, for his worthiness to take me to the temple, and for the chance we have to be together FOREVER. I couldn't ask for more!! I love you Babe!! :)

Happy 3rd Birthday Klous :)

2009-10-13T10:30:00.004-06:00

Well 3 years ago today we were in the hospital like this...with a brand new baby boy...first addition to our little family...and loving him more then anything!!! What a happy little family!!!
Daddy & Klous have always had a special bond and been "buddies" from day one...I love watching them together and seeing how much fun they have when they play!!! It started from the day he was born and has only gotten better!!!
On Klous' 1st birthday he was all about helping Daddy with decorations and the "party bags"...guess that's what you do for the FIRST birthday!! Then you realize how much work parties are!!! But here's my 2 boys on the day Klous turned ONE :)
Then there was last year...that was a crazy day too. Started out fine and normal...got Klous some fish and he helped Daddy put them in the tank and get it all set up. However, after that the day just went downhill...I woke up from a nap and had major issues that day. Numbness, migraines, funky talking, no sight in my right eye, and on and on. It was scary, and I tried my best to make the rest of the day fun for Klous. However, Mommy ended up in the ER that night and found out that it was just a severe migraine and NOT a stroke...thank goodness!! Here's to hoping this year is BETTER and nothing to worry about!!!
Klous was all excited this morning and even more smiles when he realized it really IS his birthday TODAY!! He's been waiting SOOOO long...and now it's finally here. Here are my boys again...on his 3rd birthday!! I can't even say how much I love this kid and how grateful I am that he's in our family. He's such a good helper and so fun to have around. Yes we have our bad days...but when the smiles, hugs, kisses, and "I love you's" come...that really out-does the bad days!!!
Mommy LOVES YOU kiddo!! Happy birthday!!!

Teething...Constipation...One SAD girl :(

2009-10-08T09:20:00.003-06:00

So you all know my sweet baby girl Aysha May...why when a bad night comes...does EVERYTHING have to come that night!?!?! She's been struggling with her teeth coming in on the bottom for MONTHS now...and one finally poked through, while the other is being a pain. So we had that last night...then she couldn't lay still or sleep because her tummy was so upset and not feeling good. She's stretch out her legs...squirm and wiggle like crazy...and just whine and cry :( It was so sad and yet SO annoying, because I was tired...she was up from 11-5 off and on...and it made me not so excited about another newborn. Why oh Why do all the bad days have to come together!?!?!? Let's hope and pray for a good diaper today ;) AND a GREAT naptime!!! I want my happy, smilely little girl back!! Please :)

Wonderful Hubby...Congrats Jess & Michael...and Prego Pics!!

2009-09-27T22:03:00.003-06:00

Remember this picture...it was only about 10 months ago!! Aysha was fresh home from the hospital and we were all home together as our new little family!!! Pretty cute huh...
Then just this last week I saw the SAME layout of the picture, so had to grab the camera again!! I'm really lucky to have what I have and don't always appreciate what I do have. Especially lately...so I had to post these and say THANK YOU to my amazing hubby. He really does put up with a LOT from me...especially the last 5 months...and he loves me no less. He takes the kids when I've had too much...he gives me a hug even when I'm a NOT NICE PERSON...and he is just great. So thank you Ryan for loving me and standing by me even in our tough times. And thank you for the beautiful babies you have given me too!! I love you!!
Then this weekend Auntie Jessica (Ryan's sister) got married. It was a nice day, but the kids had been sick all week long and Ryan/I didn't feel great much either. But we did the best we could and enjoyed it as much as we could!! The kids were actually great and as well-behaved as can be expected for being in a church all day long!! It was a great ceremony/luncheon/party...bride/groom were BEAUTIFUL...and we all had a good time!! Here are just a couple pictures from the morning...because the photographers got all the other GOOD pictures!!!

My babe & kiddos...
Our family...aren't the kids looking SO happy :)
Klous, Aysha, & Zack with Michael & Jessica!!! Happy Marriage to them...they looked so happy all day!! It was cute!!
A better close up shot!!
Klous & Zack helped carry her train...it was cute...can't really tell what the picture is, but that's what they're doing :)
And the boy cousins...they were buds all day...until they had ENOUGH of each other...that wasn't til night time though!! Luckily!!!
And lastly...I probably over-did it at the wedding and all weekend...because now I'm sick and I've been in pain all weekend. But I had Ryan take some prego pics finally!! So people will stop asking!! 27 weeks and still going!! Forgot to do the glucose test yesterday...so I'll have to do it this week...but we're surviving!! Baby moves like CRAZY!!! No positive names yet...just trying to think of some cute ones!! I like Kyson, but I don't know how much Ryan likes it!?!?! Klous is still convinced on Baseball Guy...or now Football guy (since it's football season)...so we'll see ;)
We're just taking it a day at a time and can't really believe Christmas will be here so soon. In the next few months we've got Klous' birthday...our Anniversary...Aysha's birthday...Thanksgiving...baby coming...and then Christmas...so it'll be a quick end of the year I think!! I'll try to do better at posting prego pics though!!!

Oreo's anyone!?!?!

2009-09-14T12:23:00.004-06:00

Ok well some of you might remember and know that I LOVE the holiday Oreo's...they taste better then the regular ones!! And some of you might remember how much Klous liked them when he was about 10 months old...I think they were a hit...but here are some pictures to remind you of it!!

And here he is last week eating the Halloween ones THIS year!! I was so excited to see them at Wal-Mart and had to get a pack!! I'm pretty sure Klous is STILL a fan!!!

Well I couldn't let him have some and NOT Aysha...so we had to see if she liked them too...I'll let you be the judge and see what you think...personally I think she liked them...and she'll probably eat them again!!! Yep...must run in the family, because me and my kiddos LOVE the holiday Oreo's!!!

Isn't she adorable!! How can you not love her little face...so cute!!!

Yep...they're a hit for her too...YAY for the Halloween ones...before we know it the Christmas ones will be out and we'll try those too!! Baby #3 will get to try next year too!!! Yay for holiday oreo's...don't they look delicious...I know these pictures make you all want to go out and get some!!! They're FUN!!! :) :) :)

Randomness...

2009-09-08T22:23:00.007-06:00

Sorry for the OVER abundance of pictures tonight...but I feel WAY behind with this blogging thing. I'm finally feeling more like myself...we have the computer back...and the pictures are all safe. It was gone for a couple weeks...luckily I had the laptop still...but our main PC had a fried power supply AND a fried mother-board...I had no idea the information ISN'T on the mother-board...so that was a relief!! Anyways...here are some random picture of the kiddos for the last month or more!!! Enjoy!!

We have enjoyed a number of BBQ's this summer and LOTS of s'mores!! The kids have loved them as well...as you can tell!!!

Klous showing off for Ramma Judy & Papa Bob!!! :) YUM :) :) :)
Kisses for you guys too!!!
Aysha has discovered juice in sippy cups too...she seems to love them!! For some reason though, Klous' cups are much more exciting and taste better then her own!!!
My juice drinking babies!!!
We had a couple weekend in August when it actually got a little "chilly"...which here means like 70 degrees maybe!?!?! But it was cold for Aysha and I had to pull out the next tote and warmer clothes for her...made me excited about the NEXT season!! Bring on the cooler temps PLEASE!!!!
Aysha had her first AND second black eye all within a couple weeks...this is her first...she likes to play with all Klous' toys and doesn't realize they take a little more work and practice to actually use...so when you push on one side of a tool bench thing...the other side WILL come up and hit your face :( Poor girl...it was a nice little bruise for a few days!!!

I didn't get pictures of her 2nd black eye...but that was from face planting on the bottom of one of Klous' cars too...guess boy toys are WAY more fun then girl stuff!!! Who knows...she's a tough cookie!!
We also made it over to Farm Land at Thanksgiving Point in August...Klous had fun with the animals...and Aysha just stared in awe at them!!
Klous even pet the horsies!!!
AND rode a pony all by himself...Daddy just walked by him, but he was pretty proud of himself for doing it all on his own!!!
Look how big he's getting!!!
Klous has also been bugging us to ride in the go-karts at the local mini-golf place...so a couple weekends ago, we went with Zack & Shauna to ride the go-karts and play golf!! Aysha & I just watched...but Daddy, Klous, Shauna, & Zack had a great time going round and round!!!
They kept racing and being the leaders...then Shauna would pass them...for awhile there, Klous & Zack looked a little sick from going in circles for 5 minutes straight!!!
But they were all smiles each time they came by us!!!
Then it was time to get off :( Luckily it was long enough to please the boys!!!
Aysha is now 9+ months as well...she has discovered new talents this last month...crawling, pulling herself up, and standing while holding onto something!! She thinks she's pretty cool, and HAS to roam around the yard when we're outside. STRONG immune system with all the dirt, sticks, ants, grass, and whatever else is out there going in her mouth!!!

Here she is pulling herself up to check on Klous...she's always worried about where he is and what he's doing!!!
Really I think she was trying to get his juice :) :) :)
And she's off...
Exploring every room in the house to see where we are and what we're doing...it's nice to have her follow us around instead of being stuck and crying all the time!!!
And finally...I've been having fun with her FINALLY having some hair!!! She's been able to have the pony on the top...but on Monday I tried PIGGIES...look how cute she is!!! Ryan says she looks like BOO from Monsters Inc...I just think she's adorable!!!
My baby girl is getting so so big!! I just can't get enough of those eyes, smiles, adorable faces, and giggles...TOO CUTE!!!
That's our update...hope you enjoyed the pictures...sorry...still no prego pics or anything...guess I'll have to work on that...I'm almost 25 weeks and just growing!! Baby boy moves like CRAZY and Klous loves feeling him and checking to make sure he's still in there!! It's getting more and more exciting...but stressful too, cuz 3 kids is a LOT to deal with I think!!! Yikes :)

Park City Get-Away...

2009-09-01T14:39:00.003-06:00

A couple weekends ago, Ryan had taken a couple days off...and I told him I NEEDED to get away. So he planned a fun weekend in Park City just relaxing and playing with the kids. It had been a hard month for me, because I wanted to go back home, but couldn't...so it was a well needed trip away from "reality"...so THANK YOU to a great husband that planned a nice time!!

We left Thursday morning and went to the zoo first in Salt Lake...we hadn't been since March, and figured we better take advantage of our year pass thing we bought...so we went. It was bloody HOT the whole time...Aysha got sunscreen in her eye and swelled all up...Klous was tired and crabby...but it was an alright time. We just walked around and saw some of the animals then left...figured we'd go back again when it cools down and isn't so hot!!!

Klous had fun with the statues and holding Aysha on them!!! Aren't they cute kids!!!

He wasn't too sure of this elephant, so Daddy had to stand with him and be in the picture too...tried to tell him it wasn't real, but he was still scared??
There was this CUTE little giraffe...now i know it's still big, but not compared to it's parents!! This is a new baby giraffe that was there...I had to get a picture!!!

After the zoo, we headed to Park City...Ryan had reservations at one of the resort things up there...since summer is their off season...it was only $59 a night and it was great. Of course I dind't get any pictures of the place we stayed...but it was pretty much a little apartment. Full kitchen, dining room, living room, bathroom, and bedroom. 2 flat screen tv's...a pull out couch bed...VCR/DVD players, WITH movies in the room...it was more then I expected. But it was nice!! Anyways...we couldn't check in until 4 and got there at 2...so we went and walked around main street and looked at the shops...I had never done that before!!!

Here's Klous & Mommy resting on a "horse bench" he found and wanted to sit on :)
We hung out and swam...relaxed...shopped at the outlets...and just wasted time. It was great!! No real plans just doing what we wanted to do when we wanted to!! On Saturday though, we invited Shauna & Zack up to spend the night and went to Olympic Park...from the 2002 winter olympics. Here are a few pictures from that!!

Klous & Aysha as little skiers!!!

Daddy, Aysha, Zack, & Klous in the bobsled...pretty cool huh!!

Then they tried out the little sleds...I don't know what they're called :)

Finally we checked out the upstairs and saw all the medals and equipment used in the olympics...pretty cool stuff!!
It was a GREAT weekend, and I hated coming back to reality, but someone's gotta do it and make money so we can live right!!! Thank you honey for planning a great weekend and letting us get away...it was GREATLY appreciated!!!

Sharing with his sister :) :) :)

2009-08-28T14:00:00.003-06:00

Klous has always liked his sister...and really hasn't been the mean big brother like some people have warned me about. He's had his moments, but really he's been sweet most of the time. He's really liking her even more now that she can crawl, giggle, play, and interact more with him...she follows him around and laughs at him and flails her arms/legs when he walks in the room and so much more. It's so cute to watch them...and a couple weeks ago it was cute too. Klous had gotten a ring pop and wanted to share it with Aysha...here are some pictures of the whole episode!!!

I think they liked it...check out how BLUE they got!!

Look how sweet that is...no problem sharing and giving her a lick!!
And she's willing to share too...or grab it from his mouth!!!
Adorable #1...
Adorable #2...how can you resist those eyes of the kids!?!??!
All in all it was a yummy treat and they shared quite nicely and thoroughly enjoyed it!!!

Future Baseball All-Star!!!

2009-08-13T18:25:00.003-06:00

Everyone knows that Klous is ALL boy and plays all the sports he can. He's our little athlete and is getting better the older he gets. We have a bucket of baseballs that he wants us to pitch to him. I refuse to pitch anymore, since he's done a line drive back to my FACE with the ball...and it doesn't come back slow...so here's Daddy pitching to Klous and you can see how good of a hitter he is!! I like to watch Ryan jump out of the way of the ball too!! :) Enjoy!!!

Klous doing the Prophets :)

2009-08-13T18:20:00.005-06:00

When we read our scripture stories at night...Klous is extra and excited about the Doctrine & Covenants book, because it has all the prophets in the back. So we've helped him learn them and he's been able to repeat them back to us with us helping with the first names. We were a bit surprised and decided we better get it on video!! Hope you enjoy it!!

We're having a.....

2009-08-06T22:57:00.007-06:00

baby BOY :) :) :)

Yep...that's right...no pictures yet. I haven't put the ultrasound ones on the computer yet, and Ryan hasn't done any belly shots. Maybe this weekend?? But just thought I'd let you all in on our news!!! Klous was right all along...about having his "baby brodder"...he's excited and wants to name him "baseball guy" and really wants him to come out NOW...he just doesn't get that he has to wait til Christmas...but Mommy is NOT ready yet ;) Here's to another boy...it'll be fun!!! We're excited!!!

Finding out...

2009-08-05T15:02:00.002-06:00

Hello all...just thought I'd let you all know that we go in for our 20 week ultrasound tomorrow morning...we WILL be finding out what it is...even though I have one of each...I can't wait any longer!! So stay tuned for the update and news...maybe even a belly pic...but no promises!! I think it's a boy...Ryan thinks a girl...Klous says a baby brother...and Aysha goes completely straight faced whenever we ask her what it is...STINKER!!! So we'll see...I might be in denial, because I want another boy...but judging on how I've been acting/feeling...it's probably a girl. Keep checking...info will be here tomorrow!!!

No pics...just a proud Mommy moment!!

2009-08-02T20:14:00.003-06:00

So today was fast Sunday at church...and ALL week long, Klous has been bugging me that he wanted to "give a talk" in church this week. I didn't know where he got it from...or why he was talking about it...or what I was going to do about it...but then today we figured it out. He won't go to nursery because he's scared or something...and he's not in primary so he can't give a talk there. Then we were in sacrament meeting, and it hit him and I at the same time!! When the testimonies started, he looked at me with sad-puppy dog eyes and said..."Mommy, I want to give a talk..." and then just kinda pouted because we weren't rushing to the front. So after a few testimonies and watching him be sad...I leaned over to Ryan and said...you should bring him up there and help him give a "talk"and bear his testimony. So Ryan did...he brought him up there (so I wouldn't have to) and Klous was so cute. Of course had to yell in the microphone at first, but then with help from Daddy gave his own little testimony. So clear and proud of himself...then Ryan did his. It was cute...just went something like this..."I'd like to bear my testimony...I know this church is true...I love my family...I like to read the scriptures...in the name of Jesus Christ, Amen." So so cute...brought tears to Mommy's eyes...then Ryan did his and made me cry more. Man I'm a lucky girl and really do have lots to be grateful for!! Especially Klous' example...I love that kid!!!

The kiddos being cute...

2009-07-25T22:37:00.005-06:00

Here's an exciting, fun post!! No more moping or whining from me!! Now it's time to show off my adorable babies and how big they're getting...and how silly they are!! Hope you like the pictures!!

Some of you have seen our FLEXIBLE baby...and some have heard about it...and some will see/hear about it all for the first time now. She's scooting and moving more now...so the other day Aysha scooted to the couch and this is how I found her sitting...yep...doing the splits!!
It's really nothing for her...she'll do it day or night...any time, anywhere...and this is usually how she has to fall asleep. As you can tell...she's all smiles about it!!! She won't go to sleep in her bed unless each foot is touching OPPOSITE walls of the playpen...I think that's why she won't go in the crib...it's too BIG for her to stretch her legs like that!!! Silly girl....
I just love her...she's getting so big (8 months yesterday)...and is starting to really giggle, squeak, interact with Klous, and just be fun. It's too cute watching the kids play and laugh at each other...they're adorable!!!
Look at those eyes...how can you get mad or upset at her!?!?! Too dang cute!!!
Yep...she doesn't have to be up against the couch to do it...this is usually how she just gets down from sitting up...just spreads the legs and lays down...she can do the splits the other way too...but I haven't gotten pictures of that!! She's a bit flexible!!!
Then there's Klous...he's my boy!!! Goes from whacking me in the FACE with a wiffle ball while I was pitching to him...then comes into the house so I can get ready...and this is what I find. Silly kid was trying Aysha's hat on and trying to snap it...I just had to laugh and grab the camera. Daddy isn't real pleased with the picture...but I thought it would be a good one to pull out on those IMPORTANT days when he's older!! ;)
I made him re-do the face/pose he did for me when I walked out...but then he was all smiles and laughing that he looked so silly!!! Crazy to think you can get SO mad at him one minute...then laugh at him hysterically the next!! Love you bud!!!
Klous has been bugging us lately too cuz he wants to HOLD AYSHA...I keep telling him she's real wiggly and won't sit for very long...but he insisted on holding his sister. So I let him and actually got some pictures of it...
Won't be too long...(5 months from today I'm due)...and there will be ANOTHER one...yikes!!! But at least they're cute huh!!! Can't complain about that!!! Sure do love these kiddos!!!

Dr's Appointment today...

2009-07-23T22:41:00.002-06:00

So I don't want to hurt anyone's feelings with this post or seem heartless or anything. But I've been feeling like I should post something and keep it recorded, because my goal is to someday make a book out of my blog!! Anyways...I'm sorry if this offends anyone, but I hope that you understand where I'm coming from, and that I'm not intending on hurting anyone with it.

Ok...anyways...so I had a doctor's appointment this morning. It was just a regular check-up to hear the heartbeat...ask any questions I may have...schedule my ultrasound and next appt...do the pee in a cup...you know just the regular stuff. We got in...(Ryan was with me)...and I got all ready to have the Dr. find the heartbeat. Well usually with Klous & Aysha...and with the appointments for this baby...he's just found it immediately. Today it seriously seemed like FOREVER. He moved the doppler thing around...looked and looked for it...I didn't think anything of it at first, then it got longer and longer...my heart was sinking and aching...I was watching the Dr to see his expressions or anything...NOTHING...he went over the placenta and it was making a sound (like that of a muffled heartbeat sound)...but he said "Oh...that's the placenta"...then moved it around a little more. FINALLY way down low and where he never usually finds it, he found it. I let out a BIG sigh of relief...or what felt like a big sigh...and the Dr apologized for scaring me or making me nervous. It was such a relief to actually hear it and know the little one is still in there. I'm almost 18 weeks, and thought it was weird that I haven't really been feeling it move much...then when he couldn't find the heartbeat I got nervous.

So then all day I've been thinking about it...I think I was more nervous because of the feelings and thoughts I've been having the last 3-4 months. The feelings of doubt and fear and stress and worry and unhappyness at times. I feel TERRIBLE thinking any of these things, because for 4 1/2 years Ryan & I tried to get a baby...and now even though it's not in OUR timeline and plan...I find myself upset sometimes. It's horrible I know...and I'm really trying to work on it, but it takes time. Each day is a new experience for me and I never know what I will feel like when I wake up and get going. I'm more then happy to be having this baby...don't get me wrong. I know of the number of ladies and mothers who can't have children, or lose their children, or sit and watch their children suffer. So for the fact that I got this one all on my own and that it's got a strong, healthy heartbeat...I couldn't be more grateful. I just struggle I guess. It's a hard truth to admit...and I think getting it out will help me to overcome it more. Who knows...

I'm sorry for my rambling...like I said though...I wanted to have a record of my thoughts and feelings today and get it out. This pregnancy sure has been an emotional roller coaster and I'm just trying to make it through at this point. Sorry again if this has offended anyone or hurt you. That was NOT my intentions...just a rambling, venting session for me I guess. Hoping to get some reassuring comments or advice maybe!?!?!

To all you Mothers...just a little uplift!!!

2009-07-15T14:53:00.003-06:00

Ok...so some of you know and some don't...but I've really been struggling a LOT lately. I've kind of turned into a hermit and shut myself off from the world, family, friends, pretty much everything. But I'm coming to realize that's NOT the answer!! I had hormonal and emotional issues when I was pregnant with Aysha...but they didn't start until I was 30+ weeks along. So I dealt with it. Well this time it's come at 14 weeks and isn't stopping. I've talked to friends, doctors, family, and mostly my hubby...and we're trying to get through it and work it out. For any of you who know me, know that I'm NOT a depressed, down, sad, unhappy person...well that's how I've been lately. Tired, crabby, no energy, no ambition, depressed, stressed, and everything else.
ANYWAYS...enough about that...I went to ask my bishop (leader of our church/area for those that don't know) for some help this last week, and he gave me something from a General Conference talk. He told me to read and study it, so I've taken it to heart and I have been this week. There are parts that have really hit home with me, and I wanted to share some with you guys, because we're all mommy's and all going through hard times and struggles at one time or another.
So here's the quote I wanted to share...it's a talk entitled "Because She is a Mother" by Elder Jeffrey R. Holland, in the April 1997 conference.
It says:

"I especially wish to praise and encourage young mothers. The work of a mother is hard, too often unheralded work. The young years are often those when either husband or wife-or both-may still be in school or in those earliest and leanest stages of developing the husband's bread-winning capacities. Finances fluctuate daily between low and nonexistent. The apartment is usually decorated in one of two smart designs-Deseret Industries (the goodwill out here) provincial or early Mother Hubbard. The car, if there is one, runs on smooth tires and an empty tank. But with night feedings and night teethings, often the greatest challenge of all for a young mother is simply fatigue. Through these years, mothers go longer on less sleep and give more to others with less personal renewal for themselves than any other group I know at any other time in life. It is not surprising when the shadows under their eyes sometimes vaguely resemble the state of Rhode Island.
..."Do the best you can through these years, but whatever else you do, cherish that role that is so uniquely yours and for which heaven itself sends angels to watch over you and your little ones...."

So I hope that can uplift you guys in some way and help you all realize you're not alone...I know I'm not alone, and that there are LOTS of people out there that care. We can all use a little helper once in awhile to get us through the next week!!! Hope this can help some of you in that way!!!

Update on getting big!!

2009-07-12T21:57:00.001-06:00

Just a little note to update and let you all know that Klous woke up at 7:00 this morning just to run in and tell Ryan..."Daddy...I slept in my big boy bed ALL night, all by myself!!!" It was pretty cute...guess we'll see what the coming nights bring...hopefully as nice as last night was...I wouldn't mind him sleeping in a bit though!!!

Getting so big... :) :( :)

2009-07-11T23:03:00.003-06:00

Somethings are just bound to happen, and we reached one of those things today. It's been a long time coming, and I know other people who have kids as old as Klous, this is a thing of the past, but it took us awhile :) We decided awhile ago that we weren't going to put him in a toddler bed when we moved him to a "big boy bed"...just cuz if he had problems at night and we had to lay with him or whatever, I wasn't going to lay in a toddler bed!! So anyways...we've had the idea and thought of getting bunkbeds for awhile, but couldn't find the right ones. Well leave it to us on a Saturday morning...bright and early at 6:45 I got up and went garage saling!! Some friends came along, then we came back about an hour later to get Ryan & the kids. One of the high schools was having a band fundraiser, so we went to check it out...they had bunkbeds with mattresses...there was a sign on the mattresses that said SOLD, so I was discouraged. Then we thought maybe they only sold the mattresses...so we asked...and sure enough they had. So I asked how much they wanted for the actual bunkbeds...and the kid said $25...can you believe it!! I was shocked and excited!! They were decent...wood...had drawers...had a ladder...was everything we wanted...so we decided to go for it. Then they had ONE mattress left laying on the other side...we asked if it was still available and it was...so we asked how much...$5!!! So for $30 we got bunkbeds with drawers, the "bunky boards" to go under the mattress, and a mattress!!!

Here is our great find!!!
Our good friend/neighbor Tyler came and helped Ryan put them together while I took the kids and Tyler's wife, Carole, to Wal-Mart to pick out sheets for Klous...of course he wanted CARS!! Don't mind the "storage" on the top bunk...that's what it'll be used for now...or until I put the laundry away ;)
Klous' new BIG BOY bed...that if we need to, we can lay in it WITH him and not just on the floor!!!
Out little man fast asleep in his new bed...don't know why it's so fuzzy...sorry though...
We'll see how tonight goes and if he stays in it all night...that would be GREAT...stay tuned for the update!!!
Now for tomorrow night and the coming week...finally putting Aysha in the CRIB and not the play-pen...getting Klous potty trained...taking the binki away...and whatever else we need to do...HA...I wish!! Someday...give it time, it'll happen right!! Aysha will be in the crib though...that one will be accomplished!!! Ryan & I want our room back to ourselves...for a few months at least!!! :) :) :)

4th of July 2009

2009-07-05T14:02:00.008-06:00

Whew...this was a busy, crazy, fun weekend!! It all started for us on Thursday night when we had friends over for a BBQ...unfortunately the weather decided it didn't want to cooperate with us the WHOLE time, so while we ate we got rained on a bit...but then it cleared up for the kids to do sparklers and us to do fireworks!!!

The kids were pretty excited...
And the rest of us were excited for the fireworks too...we're all ready!!!
Aysha & Addi sitting with Auntie Shauna...aren't they cute!!!
Oooohhhh...Ahhhhh...pretty huh!!!
Sorry it's so dark, but I had to laugh cuz we were wondering how many guys it took to light a firework!! Or maybe they were doing something else!?!?!
More pretty ones...
And Klous' special pick of the night...the crazy clown with googly eyes!! The eyes and mouth lit up on this...it was pretty cool!!!
Then Friday morning it was time to get UP and ready at 5:15 so that we could leave the house by 5:30 A.M...we were going to watch the hot air balloon launch...here's Klous all ready and raring to go!!!
Klous & Summer by the BIG pig balloon...they were blowing it up at the time!!! Can you see the kids!?!?! :-)
Me and my kiddos...
Daddy and the kiddos!!
Watching Smokey the Bear going up...
There it goes...
And he's up!!!
The rest of them getting ready to take off...
I love this shot of Klous...just watching the balloons in the sky!!!

Ryan took this picture with the mountains in the back...pretty cool!!!
Klous saying..."buh-bye balloons" :)
All of them up!!!
Then to the morning of the 4th!! It was another early morning so we could find a spot at the parade...but not near as early as the day before!! I had to take pictures of Aysha before we left, because I never know if she'll keep all her cute stuff on by the end of the day!!!

Our little 4th of July baby!!
All ready for the parade!!!
We found a spot...and it was nice too...the sun was HOT...but it rained for a bit so that cooled us down...just in time for more SUN!!
Our cute family!!!
Mommy & Aysha...
Crazy Daddy & Cool Klous :)
Mommy & Klous
Argh...Pirate Klous :)
After the parade it was back to the house to get ready for the picnic at Grandma & Grandpa Pulham's...(Ryan's grandparents)...but the guys had to get a few swings/putts/hits in!! Klous thinks it's pretty cool to play with the big boys!!!
We did the picnic...but Aysha got sick there and puked the whole time...GROSS...so we ate and left...then took naps and got ready to stake out a place to watch the BIG fireworks in Provo. We went back to the park where they do the balloons, and it was great!! Klous & Daddy played for a bit before they started and while we waited...
Then my FAVORITE part of the whole weekend came...the jets flying over the stadium...I LOVE it...
I sure am glad to be part of such an amazing nation and the freedoms that we enjoy!! Hope you all had a wonderful and safe 4th of July as well!!!

Hot days and cute clothes :)

2009-06-26T13:38:00.003-06:00

I'm loving the nice weather so the kids and I can actually be OUTSIDE...and the ADORABLE clothes that Aysha has with all the bright colors and things...Klous is cute too of course...but this is the first summer with a little girl...so anyways...it's been fun!!!
I've noticed a lot lately that I haven't had all the "accessories" on Aysha lately...and maybe these pictures will show you WHY :) :) :)

I put it on and this is what happens...
Uh oh...
Ha Ha Mommy :)
So I'll just put the little clip in her fuzz hair and hope it lasts...which it doesn't/didn't because eventually she feels for that too and pulls it out...silly girl!! Good thing she's still cute with or without them huh!!!
Yesterday after naptime I told Klous we could get the little pool out and swim for a bit...it was 90+ degrees yesterday I swear and it was SO bloody hot...so it was relaxing and nice...I also put Aysha in her swimsuit and she LOVED it...if you can't tell from the smile :)
And munching on the toy...the bathtub chair didn't work in the pool, so I had to hold it with my feet...and she just splashed and splashed...so cute!!
Klous struggled to get in the pool at first...not cuz he wasn't hot...or the water didn't feel good...but because he chose to POOP in his swim diaper as SOON as we got outside...I was so mad...so this is him just standing outside the pool...
But after a good diaper change and a NEW swim diaper...he was all about swimming and playing in the water :)
Cute kids huh!!
Aysha decided to face plant in the water...but nothing cuter then a wet baby face huh!! This is the best I could do :)