It's just us

Favorites during one quiet day~ Septemberish 2010

2010-10-31T23:49:00.002-06:00

With all the kids in school, Talan needs to find something to do. This fine warm summer-like day Talan decided to make chocolate...very chocolate milk. The chocolate syrup had been opened and used a total of 1 time prior to this yummy snack. Talan poured the entire chocolate bottle into the milk and then stirred his little heart out.

While Talan was parched and fixing himself a snack, McCoy just eats sand. He is found in this little sand box his aunts gave him for his birthday. He LOVES this little heaven for little boys.

He can get in and out of it all by himself. He has also mastered getting sand into every crevice he has, including his nose.

Fall 2010

2010-10-31T23:33:00.002-06:00

It's pretty sad when the title of the post is a season and year. I don't really know why I slacked so much in blogging. I really love it and love to read others. I guess life just gets a little too busy stalking people on Facebook, I don't have enough time to document our lives. Just kidding! I need to be better. Here we are at the Gallivan Center for Trick or Treating. The only picture where McCoy is not running off... Gallivan Center attempting to get all of the kids to look at the camera while that crazy McCoy Monkey kept running off! He is fun these days!

See McCoy Monkey is trying to run off again. Here we are getting ready to ride Trax to the Gallivan Center.

Still running...but I did catch up to him! We had a great Halloween beginning the very long day at the above mentioned Gallivan Center, then we went to Merab's Halloween Party at Spring Creek followed by a very wet/turned inside Trunk R Treating at the church followed by soup at home with lotsa cousins and family followed by a very WELCOME HOME RICHARD at 11:43pm, where he returned from Afghanistan after a very long 400 days!

We went to the Corn Maze on Family Night. McCoy couldn't run, so he didn't have too much fun. The other kids were very tired and saw no point in walking through a bunch of corn just to end where they started. Hmmm what is the point of that? Oh well....traditions don't always make sense. Lexee was particularly happy. Talan was lazy on top of the stoller and enjoyed being pushed around the entire night~

Talan's First Day of Preschool...or first day away from me

2010-10-31T23:19:00.002-06:00

Seriously! I just wanted one nice pose before he left for school. "Just stand there Talan with a cute smile on your face!" Talan replied, "I AM!"

"There is this better MOM!!" " NO Talan just stand there so I can take a nice picture to show your future wife." " There Mom, now she will think I am smokin' hot!" I am not kidding he truly said that!!! What will I ever do without him here ALL DAY LONG.

First Day of School 8/16/2010

2010-09-27T09:15:00.003-06:00

Braeden and Lexee started school in August. They worked really hard to pick out the perfect "look" for the new year. Lexee decided she wanted to "swoop" bang and for people to know she is a girly girl. Lexee started the 3rd grade with Mrs. Weller. She has many friends in her class. She is guilty of being a little boy crazy, but she seems to enjoy her classmates. I was lucky to get any picture of Braeden he started to walk quickly into his classroom when he saw me. One of these days he will be glad I took a few pictures while he was young. He started the 4th grade. His teacher is Mrs. Gray. He is doing really well in class and seems to enjoy playing football at recess.

It goes without saying, the first day of school is quite stressful. These pictures are very little because we were almost late searching for the camera...with no luck. So these pictures are copied from Facebook, THANKS Aunt Jaymi for taking them with her camera!

Braeden turned 10! July 16, 2010

2010-08-22T20:00:00.006-06:00

I can't believe that 10 years ago we brought home our sweet little Braeden. Weighing in 6# 8oz he was perfect. After an uneventful labor, life flight took our sick newborn to Primary Childrens where he would fight for his life for 6 pain staking weeks in the NICU. Our Pediatrician is still astonished that an infant this sick would pull through and turn into a strapping 105#, witty, athletic, sensitive young man. I am so thankful that Braeden was my first born. He is responsible and loving. He sets goals and achieves them. He lives for Baseball. He enjoys recess the most at school. He is a great student and has many friends. Over the past year Braeden has earned the Bear in Cub Scouts, made the Kearns All Stars Team, earned and saved $60 for a new bat and showers at least once sometimes twice a day. He asked on his first day of school, "Hey Mom, think the girls are gonna chase me this year lookin this hot?" Yep, he requested skinny jeans, DC tennis shoes and graphic tees for school clothes. Happy Birthday Braeden!!!

Baseball Season Spring 2010

2010-08-22T18:33:00.005-06:00

I was really really bad at taking pictures this baseball season. Braeden played for Willie Garcia and the A's this Spring on Kearns Babe Ruth. He loved his coaches and the entire team he played with. They came in 2nd place with only 1 more loss than the 1st place team. It was really close. His skills became really apparent as the catcher. He enjoyed this position and he did really well with it.

He tried out for the Kearns All Stars Team and made it. This was a really stressful experience. With the continued parental drama and different coaching styles, we learned and grew as baseball fans. Braeden played really well and enjoyed catching and playing 1st base for this team. This photo is of him trying out for the All Stars but wouldn't you know it, I didn't take a single picture of the tournament.

Talan played for the Kearns American Pee Wee team. Of course he loved every minute of it. He was nicknamed early on as Mighty Mouse because he was small but a powerful hitter. His coach gave him T-ball bats for fear the larger bats were too big. I told Dustin to give him the bigger bat and wouldn't you know it, he hit the ball almost every time. We were super proud of him, I fear we have a long run for baseball with him since he started so young. It's a good thing we really like the sport.

LA Dance Mini Team

2010-08-22T18:14:00.002-06:00

Lexee ended her first year on the Mini Specialty Team with 4 second place tournaments. She really grew with this experience. She made lots of new friends and looked forward to dance every week.

She did so well that LA Dance invited her to join the Pre-teen Specialty Team for the 2010-2011 season. She was really excited to move up. With this team comes a Ballet Technique class. She has really made up proud with her dedication that she shows.

Kearns Hometown Parade

2010-08-22T18:09:00.002-06:00

Another year another big Kearns Hometown Days Parade. This year both Lexee and Taylor danced. They performed really well and enjoyed every minute of it.

My First Birthday!

2010-08-22T17:46:00.002-06:00

I can't believe that it has been 1 year. McCoy is the light of our lives. He is such a sweet, cuddly baby. He loved going to town on his birthday cake. We celebrated at the Kearns Oquirrh Park Fitness Center with family and friends. He got a Flintstone car, ride on toy, sand box, baseball toy, trucks and lots of sand toys as well as many outfits. He is such a lucky boy.

McCoy says: Mom Mom, Ad dad, Yes and shakes his head no.

Favorite Food: Watermelon, he comes running

Started walking about 2 weeks before his birthday

Weighs: 15# 10oz and is 26 inches long

Wearing: a 3-6 month outfit for his birthday

Loves being outside

Finds dirt anywhere and digs like a puppy

When he smiles he has the cutest dimples. He squints his little eyes and bobs his head. He wakes up so happy in the morning and enjoys a bowl of Marshmallow maties or Cheerios and a bottle. He loves hot dogs and pasta. He loves to find water and splash or walk through the sprinklers. He loves to swing and ride in the stroller. He is quite the little blondie with curls especially when his hair is wet. He only stands in his high chair and can't go down stairs yet. He won't keep shoes on and if left in just a diaper will remove as fast as he can. Happy Birthday McCoy!

Easter

2010-05-26T21:49:00.008-06:00

Easter baskets came with a special toy, coordinating shirts and a few sweet treats.

Seriously Talan! This blue took days to come off!

What a good helper he was. He only cracked 7 eggs. I know one might ask, "Why did you keep giving him them?"

The night before I forgot that the Easter Bunny hides the eggs. So I ran to get the essential supplies and Mom was there to lend a helping hand. I used to be really on top of holiday traditions. But now I am just lucky that my kids bathe regularly and they are dressed...most of the time.

I am 9 months old!

2010-04-15T13:31:00.005-06:00

I weigh 14.1 pounds and I am 25 inches tall. I am sure I will catch up. I love to crawl but I refuse to use both my knees; I get much more leverage when I have a knee up. My mom says I am like a bug, I just appear under her feet without much notice. I love to eat anything and everything that is dropped on the floor. I especially love cottage cheese and avocado in the morning, pasta and yogurt in the afternoon and whatever I am fed for dinner. I will always choose my bottle for comfort though. I love to watch my brothers play. Hide and seek is my favorite thing to do under a blanket. I am for sure mom's happiest baby. I fall asleep in the car no matter how much I have slept previously. I have two small dimples on my cheeks just under my eyes and my hair goes super curly after my bath. I recently learned to clap and I am still lacking in teeth. One day they will push through but in the mean time I love having my gums squeak.

Lexee's baptism

2010-03-07T21:39:00.004-07:00

Lexee was baptized and became a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints on Saturday March 6, 2010. She was so excited but she said she was just a little nervous. She was definately the princess of the day. She loved all the attention her family and friends gave her. We felt so loved by all who attended. Her dad baptized and confirmed her giving her the Gift of the Holy Ghost. Cody blessed that Lexee would listen to the Holy Spirit to make good decisions. He also blessed her that should would strive to walk in the footsteps of our Savior. I am so thankful that Cody honors his priesthood and is able to perform these saving ordinances.

Details of the baptism: Aunt Ness gave the Holy Ghost talk. Grandpa Thompson and Grandpa Baldwin witnessed the sacred ordinance. She chose her dress and wanted a flower in her hair. We held the luncheon in the cultural hall afterwards. She told me she wanted Spaghetti and Meatballs and caramel apples. Our entire Primary Presidency and her Primary teachers were both there as well as the 1st counselor of the Bishopric. All of her immediate family was there. Aunt Susan, Aunt Pam, Uncle Grant, Uncle Scott and Aunt Delynn as well as Melissa, Michael, Jamie and Elayne made a special effort to come. Our special friends The Mortensons, The Taylors, The Moffitts and The Graysons also joined us for. We missed those who couldn't make it and are so grateful for those who made the special effort to share this day with us. We are particularly thankful that Grandpa Baldwin was discharged from the hospital and able to be there.

We are so proud that Lexee made this important decision. I am so thankful for the opportunity that we have to be baptized and receive the Gift of the Holy Ghost.

Happy Birthday Lex!!!

2010-03-07T21:29:00.004-07:00

Our sweet little Lexee turned 8 years old on February 24th. She was really excited about her birthday. She turned to me and said, "Mom, I think for my birthday I want to come home and see all of my friends jump out at me and yell HAPPY BIRTHDAY!" Yep, she asked for her own surprise birthday party. I told her better luck next year since she told me this news the day before her birthday. For her birthday we had a family party and her aunts and uncles and Grampa and Nana came over. Grandpa Baldwin was sick so he had to stay at home, and Grandma stayed with him. Lexee stands about 42 inches tall and weighs 49 pounds. She is growing into a beautiful girl. She loves dancing, drawing, and cooking. Her favorite foods are candy, candy and more candy, spaghetti & meatballs, and caramel apples. She passes her days by painting her nails, putting lip gloss on and playing games like Uno. Her favorite subject in school is Math and she is really good at it. She is in the 2nd grade. Her school friends are MiKayla, Camila, Zoey, Mariah & Kiley. She takes really good care of her baby brother. She changes a great diaper and can make the best tasting bottle ever. We love you Lexee! Happy Birthday!!!

"Hey Co~ I want to learn a new skill..."

2010-02-10T21:43:00.006-07:00

So last Monday, Cody had a spontaneos day off work so we went to lunch with former co-workers. I began feeling useless since I don't work anymore. I decided I needed to learn a new skill... Yep Cody was totally on board....sort of.
Within the next two hours our bathroom went from that to this.
-toilet- gone, mint green vanity- gone, mint green squared vinyl flooring- gone
I began painting on Tuesday morning finished at 10:30am. Then I started trying to cut the cement board. Man that's heavy stuff. I carried it from the garage to the front room, that's as far as I got. Then after calling Dad, I realized that we had bit off more than we could chew. So I made a call to Alli's brother who came and tiled for us.
By Wednesday night we had tile...real tile.
Next came the vanity, which Cody screwed to the wall, then the sink, then the new towel racks, floor boards, culk and reinstallation of the toilet.
WARNING: Don't lean on the sink. The sink will fall off...we still can't seem to glue it down (plumbers putty and construction adhesive~worthless)
WARNING: Don't pull too hard on the towel racks as they will fall.
WARNING: There is no toilet paper holder but you can find rolls and rolls under the sink.

So...my new skill learned was realizing that I don't and can't remodel and should never be allowed to try. I understand this now and won't try again. I guess my new skill is learning to fold 'em (cards...when you don't have a good hand and you need to walk away from the poker table)
Cody said the next time he has a day off he is going back to work, when he's not here I don't plan these fun project :)

Next project: Now that we have seen tile work, I know we can do it~ KITCHEN FLOOR IS NEXT

So it's been 3 months...

2010-01-09T01:39:00.002-07:00

Where have we been and what have we been doing for the last 3 months. Just a run down of things happening missing the camera.
~In November, I finally graduated with a Bachelors in Human Services. I am thrilled to be done and now continue to fill my day with Primary stuff. The week of graduation I was called as the Primary President. After a short run with Heather Sharp as her first counselor and a longer run with Alyssa Earl as her first counselor I was called in early November. The job has kept me hopping and I love every minute of it. I have huge shoes to fill and hope to fill at least half and I will have accomplished my goals. The baby blues are finally a thing of the past.
~Cody continues to enjoy his work at Kennecott. The union signed another 7 year contract with a slight fear of strike. He turned 33 at the end of December and really thought long and hard about those he knew of that died at this ripe old age. He then remembered they they (Jesus and Joseph Smith)did not die of natural old age causes. :) He picked up a truck that he has always wanted and now says he has everything his heart has ever desired.
~Braeden is counting down the days until baseball sign-ups.
~Talan is counting down until he can play "real baseball on Jake's team"
~Lex danced her heart out at LA Dance Company's Production of The Christmas Carol. We are looking forward to a spring filled with competition, camp and spring recital.
~McCoy is anxiously awaiting his ability to crawl.

Ice Skating

2010-01-09T01:31:00.002-07:00

It's kind of like Rollar blading only "colder"

Helmets and a walker~A must for first timers. Cody's is to the left... Ok he did a great job mentioning that he was feeling old.

Enjoying every minute and eventually ditched the walker.

2010-01-09T01:23:00.002-07:00

Almost 6 months old, McCoy is enjoying life. He laughs, sits almost independently and rolls over. He still loves the big green and the bath. He will only sleep if he is swaddled tight. He laughs at his brothers and sister who love and protect him. He weighs 12.6 pounds and is 24 inches tall. Still below the growth chart but growing strong. He is developing perfectly and a joy to have in our family.

Happy Birthday Talan!

2010-01-09T01:12:00.002-07:00

YAY he finally "turned to 4"! He is such fun kid to have around. He continues to play and run. He is the best "bull" and loves to play ball inside or outside. He will often say, "Mommy don't cry or else I will to." He will also follow "I love you" with "infinity I win". He will refer to himself in the third party for example, "All of the Lexees are mean to Talans". He went to the Doctor this week and was found to be very healthy. He weighs in at 39 lbs and 32 inches tall (both 25th percentile). He makes up in personality what he may lack in height :) He lights up a room and makes anything he does fun!

2010-01-09T00:59:00.002-07:00

Christmas Day we spent with Grandpa and Nana.
Really enjoyed her Littlest Pet Shop & Craft kits.

First Christmas and first Sunday outfit from Nana. Talan not so impressed yet. He was a little later when Grandpa pulled out his dirt bike. He only freaked out a little when he saw the training wheels which were promised to be taken off really soon.

Surprised the most by his PSP and now a new game.

We were so blessed this year. We celebrated our Savior's birth the entire month of December so we wouldn't be too sad that Cody had to work. We still missed him but we are grateful for his job. We had a great Christmas Holiday and enjoyed the simplicity of the season.

Christmas Eve

2010-01-09T00:53:00.002-07:00

We are getting to be a really big family so we decided to have Christmas Eve at Grandma and Grandpa Baldwin's church. It was so fun and 100% successful.
Grandma and Grandpa gave the boys these green bouncy ball things and I can't think of more fun for two little boys to bounce their way across the cultural hall and back nearly all night long! They had so much fun!

We played BINGO, ate really great food and enjoyed playing the chimes. We were really blessed this year with health and a new addition to our family. We are also so excited that Marci is expecting in the summer.

A picture says a thousand words

2010-01-09T00:49:00.002-07:00

Cody worked this year dayshift on both Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. So we decided to give the kids our gifts on the 23rd. On Christmas Eve morning I woke up and went downstairs only to find my almost 4 year old jamming to "MERICAN RIDE ON A MOTORCYCLE" Which is really American Ride by Toby Keith on his new IPOD (that he has since lost).

The Polar Express 12/14/09

2010-01-09T00:46:00.001-07:00

First time taking a ride on the Polar Express.
Dressed in jammies and ready to go!

Festival of Trees 12/5/09

2010-01-09T00:40:00.002-07:00

Every year we love to go to the Festival of Trees.
Loved the stroller, loved the lights and loved the icing too!

What a pair!

For the most part the kids really enjoyed the Festival. They loved making the crafts and seeing Santa from afar as well.

Let the Season begin 11/30/09

2010-01-09T00:33:00.004-07:00

Real versus fake? Cody votes for fake as he brings in our Griswald tree in this year.
Seriously, Talan put on the Santa hat and said, "Ho Ho Ho Braeden sit here, what do you want for Christmas?"

Finished!

I couldn't have posed this better! To see Christmas through a child's eye is priceless!

West Valley Christmas Parade

2010-01-09T00:24:00.002-07:00

The Day after Thanksgiving parade was a great start to the Holiday season.
She did great and loved every minute of it.

We are so proud of her!

Bath Time

2010-01-09T00:21:00.003-07:00

Just over 4 months and finally enjoying bath time.

Halloween 2009

2010-01-09T00:14:00.002-07:00

So proud to be his Dad!
Jumpin' Jack!

Nice face Coy! He was a biker.

She searched and searched for the perfect costume and finally decided on Flower Power.

Trunk or Treat. Aren't they supposed to be out of the car?

Cornbelly's 10/24/09

2010-01-09T00:06:00.003-07:00

Hayride
Bull Ride

Cow Ride

Go-Cart Ride

Fun at Cornbelly's where the kids took us for a ride!

Left at the Gas Station10/17/09

2010-01-08T23:59:00.002-07:00

Self Portrait. So after Gardner Village the kids dispersed among a few cars. We met at the gas station and the kids switched cars again, leaving me with Lex and the baby. Brae had gotten out of my car and I thought he was headed to Grandpa's. We drove away and the feeling came over me that I didn't know where Brae was. So I pulled over and checked with Steph and Dad and realized that none of us had Brae.... So I whipped around and sped back to the gas station where I pulled in and saw him turning around to go back into the store to "call the police and tell them that you left me here." I honked and motioned for him to jump in (I was trying to pull off that I had been there waiting for him, but he didn't buy it)He jumped in QUICKLY stated, "I am so telling DAD!" Sorry Brae!!!

Gardner Village 10/17/09

2010-01-08T23:48:00.004-07:00

Sportin' their Halloween shirt courtesy of Nana & Grandpa we headed out to Gardner Village for some photo op's.
OK So on the count of 3 jump!

A smile you can't help but fall in love with!

Left to right: McCoy, Lexee, Talan, Ashlee, Taylor

Dani, Matt & Happy Parker

Awww Gotta love the color Orange with the big K!

Last game of the season

2009-10-19T00:21:00.003-06:00

For Fall ball we joined the Cal Ripkin League since our coach Bob wasn't coaching for Kearns American. Overall we had a good experience with the league and Braeden has done really well.

Sliding head first into home and was safe by the hair on his chinny chin chin!

Waiting to steal home.

Hit two triples this game! I am so proud of him, he progressed into such a great ball player this year. We have looked forward to all his games from early spring until now. A year of great friends and playing ball, what more could a 9 year old want.

He was given a chance to catch this season and decided he really enjoyed playing this position. He pitched and played 1st base as well. One of his coaches said he was an "all around good ball player." We were very proud of him! Thanks to all who came to watch him!

He FINALLY gets to play!

2009-10-14T22:01:00.003-06:00

Waiting to steal home! (or be told by the base coach to run to the next base)

Check out the stance of that batter! This was after the true wind-up! He practiced on our Hit-away for hours just for his games! He was so excited to finally get to play a game.

This one went ALMOST to the pitchers mound!

Running for the ball (with all 12 other players) Once he got to the ball he just laid there, after being tackled by another player, and wouldn't throw the ball or even stand up. It was cute the first couple of games but then our cute coach Kim held the tacklers by their hoods! It was great! Peewees Kearns American in the spring!

I wish I had done this 9 years ago

2009-09-20T00:18:00.002-06:00

I wish I had learned about this way of keeping a journal when I first became a mom. I would love to look back at Braeden and Lexee and keep track of their growth and development. This was taken shortly after McCoy's 2 month appointment. He was closer to 10 weeks. He weighs 9 lbs 2 oz, and is 21 inches long. He is holding his head up really well and is smiling when talked to. He is not on the growth charts yet but if he holds to his genetics (of course only his dad's) :) he will definitely get on and stay on! People comment all the time about his eyes. I used to say they were like Braeden's only inside out, but he is growing into his cutie little face! We are so in love with Bacoy or Nacoy or Bug or beebee!

Where is Cody?

2009-09-14T20:46:00.003-06:00

The famous question by family, friends and even strangers where ever we go. 3 years ago we were blessed with news that Cody had been hired at Kennecott. Who wouldn't want to get a paycheck to play, Ohh I mean drive trucks. Soon after Cody was hired he was given the name Bruiser, someone thought he looked like a good bouncer :) His buddies include A-Rod, Thunderstick, Maybe, McCoy(look familiar), and many others. Don't ask me their real names, I don't think Cody even knows. 10-4 Good Buddy!We took Talan up to see Daddy's work. These tires are really on the trucks. They stand 12 feet 6 inches tall.

That truck, the little one in the back, is a Ford F-150, it has to have a flag that is 8 feet high above it to be seen by the driver. Otherwise, the driver of the haul truck could go right over the top of it. The haul truck is on it's way to dump the load. Loaded the truck drives 8 MPH and unloaded it can go as fast as 40 MPH.

You can see 3 steps that lead to a staircase to the deck. The deck can comfortably hold 6+ lawn chairs across the truck. Cody climbs in the door to begin his 12 hour day or night of driving, reading and jamming to his favorite tunes on his Ipod. Don't get me wrong, he is not isolated. He also plays trivia with his buddies on their radios.

The drivers wait to be loaded with the Ore, and then they dump it either in a dump or in the crusher. There are as many as 60 trucks driving at the same time.

We feel so blessed to be a part of the Kennecott team. The company has blessed our life. Even though Cody works really hard, he plays hard too. He often says that he wants our kids to know the value of work and taking care of family. He wants them to remember that when he is at home he plays hard, teaches his kids and enjoys his family and hobbies.

Kearns Town Parade

2009-09-14T20:32:00.002-06:00

Lexee danced with her performing team in the Kearns Hometown Days Parade. She did a great job and we were so proud of her!

The Feeders

2009-09-04T23:00:00.002-06:00

Ok so I decided to put this on our blog and not on Facebook since only a few read this. It was so funny to Cody and I that I can't resist it:

I had just stepped out of the shower and not realizing Talan in our room playing with Cody. Talan looked up at my gorgeous wet body and said, "Daddy, look there's the Feeders!" We were a little unsure of what he was talking about until it became rather clear when he pointed at my upper mid section below my chin...you know where... But we really knew what he was talking about when he said, "THE BABY FEEDERS, LOOK DAD LOOK!" I quickly turned around and then he shouted, "You missed it Dad, I can't see the feeders anymore!" I died and then I made a subconcious new rule that I would lock the door until I was completely dressed. Also, I will be a little more modest when I nurse McCoy.

2 months old sniff, sniff

2009-08-31T22:33:00.003-06:00

I know people say it all the time, but I really can't believe how fast kids grow up! What a wonderful baby we have been blessed with. He is a welcome addition to our family and completely adored by both brothers and his big sister!

2009-08-31T22:19:00.003-06:00

We decided to get away and head to Park City for a couple of days. There is a new Alpine Coaster, everyone was able to ride, that was so fun! It goes 45 miles an hour down the mountain. Cody, Braeden and I rode the Zipline down the mountain going 30 miles an hour, it was great! I was surprised to see how adventurous Lexee was. Talan and Lexee loved the Launch Tramp the best. Brae loved all the higher adventure stuff but no one could beat a good game of Mini Golf or should we say mini baseball. We don't go anywhere very often and this weekend was great to spend time together as a family!

More B-NANA Bread

2009-08-31T21:38:00.003-06:00

About a year ago I posted about my mom's Banana Bread that Talan calls B-NANA bread. She made some a couple of weeks ago and the kids tore into "their" special loaves.

Seriously we don't live very far from my Mom and Dad!

No, Seriously we live 8 houses away from them and the kids couldn't resist the 4 second drive home. (I know why do we drive to her house...that's another point)

McCoy's blessing

2009-08-05T21:58:00.004-06:00

Cody blessed McCoy on Sunday. He blessed McCoy that he would desire to walk in Christ's footsteps and that he would be an example and help to our family. He thanked our Heavenly Father for the health of McCoy. It was a beautiful blessing. I am so thankful that Cody holds and honors his priesthood.

bAck 2 ScHooL

2009-08-04T22:37:00.002-06:00

I can't believe how big they are getting. Lexee just entered 2nd grade.
Braeden (a little embarrassed of the picture-takin' mom) is now in the 3rd grade.

3 Weeks of Summer Vacation

2009-08-04T21:37:00.007-06:00

Year round school only gives 3 weeks for summer vacation. We tried really hard to squeeze some fun activities in before starting school again.
Lexee sharing her face painting talents with Logan.

Ice Blocking at Murray Park.

The 24th of July took us to Fort Douglas where families of soldiers are invited to enjoy a BarBQ and activities for the kids. Thanks Uncle Richard for all you do for our country!

Just learning how to do bunny ears, now even more fun to take pictures.

Drive In to see Up and the Proposal.

Here we are hiking Silver Lake and Twin Reservoirs. It was really fun to take a random Wednesday and hike with Jake, Ness, Steph & a whole lot of kids.

Love the Baby Bjorn. McCoy (just over 3 weeks old) did really well for the whole hike. He hung out with Cody's hat over him to avoid any sun exposure. Co got a great idea of what it is like to be pregnant, as he hiked with this baby on his tummy.

Steph and I picked up jogging strollers. No we aren't jogging yet, but we have goals. The kids ride their bikes and we try really hard to keep up.

MIA- Lexee was with Ness.

Happy Birthday Brae!

2009-08-02T22:44:00.002-06:00

Brae turned 9 on July 16th. It is so hard to believe that he is growing so fast. He is such a fun kid to be around. He swims in AXE body spray, wears baseball hats most all the time, tells people that he is almost an adult and is willing to live life to the fullest.
I wished on his cake that I could tell Braeden and have him truly understand how much we love him. He adds so much pride to our family. He is witty and kind. He is the first to rush to someone's defense.

I also wished on his cake that I could go back and hold him again as a baby. I would have held him more, cuddled him more and spent more time just looking at him. He is one heck of a kid and we love him so much! Happy Birthday Brae!

"Wow Mom you are THIRTY-TWO!!"

2009-08-02T22:36:00.002-06:00

Pedicures and Brunch! It's like we are grown-ups!
We were suckered in and got a little nail art but we did politely decline the twofer one wax special. Those nail people could sell you sand when your on the beach!

The Big Green

2009-07-14T22:15:00.003-06:00

I love the hospital binkies, the smell, the look, everything about them. This is the only kid I have had where the binky is almost as big as his head!
Oh and Co, when we loose this one...prepare for the tears, I am sure McCoy will be OK, I don't know if I will recover though! Those baby blues are a doozy!!

All Stars & The Bees

2009-07-14T22:01:00.002-06:00

We took our favorite All Stars, Brae and Cole to the Bees game. Of course all we heard was, "I coulda hit that!" "Come on Blue what kinda call was that!" "It's outta here!" "Strike!" "Good eye!" Lex has a thing for baseball players already! I told Brae he better get used to her "hanging" around his friends, it's all down hill from here."

Fun in the Sun

2009-07-14T21:47:00.005-06:00

Tanning?
Couldn't leave McCoy out, he sleeps anywhere we go so we might as well entertain ourselves.

Swimming at Kearns Oquirrh Park Fitness Center

Not camera shy at all.

Working on the tan for the 3rd grade :)

Love the goggles!

Working on the upper arm tan :)

All Stars- First Tournament

2009-07-14T21:30:00.005-06:00

So sad... Wants to play so bad! He enjoys practicing with Jake and Chase on their field.
I wish I could just link to Kim's blog, she took these pictures and lots more. Thanks Kim!

Brae and Cole Brae & Cole after their 1st win against American Fork!

Check out the leg! Only Kim could have caught this shot!

This was his double! The Kearns American All Stars did a great job this tournament! They gave them a great run and really played well as a team!

4th of July Celebrations

2009-07-14T15:24:00.005-06:00

Celebrating the 4th with the Baldwin's. Bar-B-Q & Fireworks at Dan & Marci's
Breakfast at Vinessa & Jakes then the West Jordan Parade

Celebrating the 4th on the 3rd with The Thompson's

Bike riding at our favorite park

McCoy doing what he does best these days!

Picnic

What's the 4th (or 3rd) without a little baseball? Then again, what's any day without baseball when Brae and Tal are present?

Super powers baby...

2009-07-11T22:36:00.003-06:00

Since McCoy was so little he was a high risk for a rising billirubin. 15 minutes before springing from the hospital (we thought scott free) the Doctor came in and told us he needed to be on lights. We couldn't bare to put him on the billi bed with the net over his little head, so thanks to Jaymi's expertise, we were able to just use the billi blanket. I realize this is a minor setback, but it was one we hadn't dealt with any of the other kids. We are now experts! He was free from the heel pricks and the light blanket 5 long days after coming home. YEAH!

Going Home

2009-07-10T19:53:00.001-06:00

I want my OWN!

2009-07-10T19:49:00.002-06:00

I had to take McCoy from Talan to change his diaper. Tal got so upset that he said, "Fine, I want my own." I said, "Your own what?" He replied back, "MY OWN MCCOY!"

Welcome McCoy Miles Baldwin

2009-07-10T19:25:00.004-06:00

Born June 26, 2009 @ 4:56pm

5 lbs. 10 oz. 17 inches tall

Caution: May be graphic :)

We entered Jordan Valley Hospital for a 7:30 induction on Friday June 26th. I enjoy (for lack of a better word) inductions because I have a huge fear of going into labor and not having enough time to shave my legs or paint my toenails. Everything was completely planned, just how I like it. Steph came over to get Brae and Lex ready for school and take Talan for the day. When we got to the hospital, the really nice nurse started a really painful IV with pitocin and pennicilin. Then we sat and waited. Then we waited some more. Finally, the contractions started and I requested an epidural. The epidural doc came in and did a great job, despite my falling blood pressure. Cody held my hand and we continued waiting. With my other inductions going really fast, I anticipated that I would be done by noon or so. By noon, I was a whopping 3! So we waited some more. After a few sitcoms and some country music, I was finally complete. I felt some pressure as Co was trying to figure out the camera and video camera. I told him that we might want to get the nurse, that something felt weird. By this time, I could feel one side of contractions and lots of pressure with each. So the nurse came in and little McCoy was crowning. She ran out to call the doctor and when he came in, he told me not to push yet. So...he sat down, gowned up and ready and said, "OK...on the next contraction PU...NEVERMIND" McCoy just came, no pushing, no sweating, no screaming...nothing he just came. He weighed in as our smallest baby, but healthiest!

OVER DUE APPRECIATION

2009-06-30T09:20:00.004-06:00

so here is my attempt to suprise heather to publicly show how much i love and appreciate her for all she does for our little family. y'all know we just recently had our 'LITTLE' McCoy, weighing in at a wopping 5lbs 10oz he's the runt of the family, heath did a fantastic job.

when i first met heath i had no direction after spending the first 5days with her that i could that quickly turned around. i knew what i wanted in life (kind of), she was different, we often talk of what could of been or how it would've been if we never met, something im glad i don't have to go back and try to find out. because of heather i have goals in life instead of just letting it pass me by without a care in the world.

with that being said,

sweatheart, im greatful for all the challenges we've had in our short little life together and look forward to the challenges we will have in our life to come because that's what makes our love so strong for eachother. thank you for our 4 beautiful children you have given us, especially the great nature and time out you take to teach them in school and lifes lessons that's why we have such good kids.

I LOVE AND APPRECITATE YOU VERY MUCH!!

Oquirrh Mountain Temple

2009-06-18T15:16:00.005-06:00

Missing: Cody(at work), Jaymi (watching Parker) & Parker (ever met him?)

Braeden's thoughts in the sealing room, "Really mom, married forever, are you sure, to the same person?"

Talan walked a fine line only occasionally going outside of the boundaries set by the temple. I have a feeling he may test more than just those boundaries.

Lexee's thoughts, "My favorite part was everything, especially that the mirrors never end."

100% Spelling Tests = Reward??

2009-06-18T14:49:00.005-06:00

Yeah! They all got 100% on their spelling tests this week. For a reward, I took them all skating... or falling...

She did stand for a minute.
He said, "If I just stay like this and scoot, it doesn't hurt as bad!"

What? He can ride a two-wheeler and can't skate...shocking!

"Lex, if you just stay by the wall and hold on you might be able to stand up."

Ohhh Daring Lex ventures from the wall (not for long though). I promised them that if they got 100% on their spelling again next week, I would never MAKE them skate again.

You did great!

2009-06-09T22:43:00.003-06:00

LA Dance Company presented the Spring Recital 2009 tonight and the girls did a great job. Lexee, Dani, Ashlee & Taylor have completed a full year with this dance company and have really enjoyed it. Their talents have really developed and they all plan to return next year to continue learning technique, making new friends and developing talents. Lexee was invited to join the Junior Specialty Prep Team for next year which is a team that prepares dancers for competition. We are so proud of this accomplishment. The girls are excited for a little break this summer and anxious to start again.

Nice Shoes

2009-06-02T17:25:00.003-06:00

Happy 9th Birthday Tay!

Love Bowling shoes! Talan was obsessed in making sure the velcro was done up. He stopped those who were next to specifically "do" their shoes.

It's pretty sad when bowling shoes are so ugly you can't even tell that these are on the WRONG feet!

"What! I can't keep these?"

What does it take to get a duck to take the bread?

2009-06-01T19:59:00.008-06:00

Here's where the fights begin. There was a white goose who attacked another duck refusing to share and so we put him in time out and REFUSED to give him the yummy, stale, hard rolls!

"Come back I am GOING to FEED you whether you want it or NOT!", said Dani.

"Dang, why are you giving the "good" bread away?" said Parker.

"Seriously DUCK take the hard stale snack I have to offer!" said Talan.

"You are not going to leave until you have cleaned your plate." said Ashlee.

Wheeler Farm

Mom, Popcorn and Nursery

2009-05-24T15:28:00.003-06:00

Just as a PS for my mother's day post, my mom graciously agreed to sub in the nursery today. I thought it would be fun to pop popcorn for the kids. I took the popper Cody used just last night and gave her explicit instructions. Just as I was beginning to conduct our Senior Primary, Alli came in to say they needed me in the Nursery for just a sec...

The next thing you know the hallway has a little smoke in it and the Nursery Room is SMOKING. With windows opened, and critically avoiding the fire alarm I had a little meeting with my substitutes asking them to just tell me they didn't WANT the calling, they didn't need to go to such extremes. I don't really know how the fire started, nor do I know how long it burnt but I do know everyone got out unharmed :)

Our Moms

2009-05-22T21:29:00.005-06:00

I realize I am a tad late at posting this. I kept waiting for the perfect time to take an award winning photo of both our moms. Instead I really want to to get this posted so that they both will know how much we love them before they forget who we are...Cody is a great reader of our blog but not much of a writer of our blog. So I asked him to be a part of this blog and write about his mom. I have specific expectations, so it will be a question and answer.
The best memory I have as a child of my mom is: She made holidays awesome, even St. Patricks Day. If my mom could give me any advice it would be: To be a good husband and father to my family.I love my mom the most because: She has always told us that she loved us, no matter what we did and we DID a lot. She always kissed and hugged us telling us that she loved us EVERY night before bed. I love you MUM!

The best memory of my mom is: As a teenager my mom was a pretty cool mom and when I started dating she really enjoyed getting to know the boys who came to pick me up. One specific boy (Co) gave her flowers when he picked me up. The look on her face was awesome.
The funniest thing about my mom is: She came home from a date with my dad and walked in with her nylons in her hand (not on). Of course I didn't know what this meant, but I did find it odd. She also went to work with two bras on and she has been known to forget them from time to time such as going to church! If my mom could give me any advice it would be: I would have to say she would tell me to let my children be children. I love my mom the most because: she loves me unconditionally, never lets me believe I am anything but perfect and is ALWAYS willing to be my mom, a shoulder to cry on and the best support any daughter could ask for. I love you mom!

I married my Prom Date!

2009-05-06T13:48:00.006-06:00

Not long after we met, my mom awoke me to a surprise outside. I had been toilet papered. It was about to rain and I was not very happy to have to clean up such a mess. Accompanying the toilet paper mess was a large poster with the words, "All of my hopes and dreams will be flushed, if you don't go to Senior Ball with me." Though I was irritated as the Spring rain started, I accepted the invitation to go with Cody to Senior Ball. I was a Senior Class Officer and this meant that I was involved with the planning of the event. So now Cody was very involved as well. We woke the morning of Senior Ball and headed to the University of Utah, where the dance was going to be held and started with the balloon arch. Cody, blistered but happy was a huge help. He tied hundreds of balloons (I would have, but my nails...) Later that afternoon we went home to get ready. He picked me up with his friends and their dates in a large van. The van was decorated like a Hawaiian Luau, equipped with a volcano in the back made of butcher paper. He and his friends had made leis they gave to us. We went to a friends house for a home cooked meal by our dates. Then off the dance. I had been to many high school dances, but none like this. I was with someone who was different, someone, I knew meant a lot to me already. The theme was Dreams to Remember and this night really was a dream to remember. We had a wonderful time and ended the night with out first kiss! Just for fun, go back to the 90's for a minute...Yep that's babies breath I had shoved into my hair that was in a diamond banana clip, with curly whisps framing my face. My dress had a bow on the back at the waste with sheer stuff hanging from it flowing, and Cody had long hair on top but around his head which was shaved. I was wearing "flats", though that may have been that I didn't want to tower over Co, not necessarily just the style. Ohh the good 'ole days of Kearns High School Senior Ball May 13, 1995.

Relishing in Savings

2009-05-05T13:35:00.003-06:00

Since I have stayed at home, I have found myself constantly looking for ways to save money. I came across an opportunity to make this easier. I went to a SIMPLY BLISS BOUTIQUE and advertised there was a service called www.myfoodstoragedeals.com
Before this service I would look at the ads but find myself questioning if something was really that great of a deal, now there is someone telling me what is and what I need to stock up! For the first few months, I took 2-3 hours and went from store to store getting the great deals.

Until I got brave enough to take the ads in to Walmart and they price matched everything. The pictures shown are of todays shopping trip of which I spent about $85.00 on. You will see 8 boxes of cereal (the real stuff, not the off brand), ground beef (4 pounds) 6 loaves of whole wheat bread, brownie mixes, grapes, apples, cucumbers, limes...

Tortillas, PB and jam, Sunny Delight ($1.00), chicken, steamed veggies, oranges (8lbs) , banana's, ketchup, TP (24 double rolls=48 reg rolls for $5.99) I can't even list everything I got on sale! I get such a rush from saving money. I totalled up what I would have spent and saved $94.00!!!

I have to give credit where credit is due. Check out this website: www.dealstomeals.com I signed up for $4.95 and they give a great guide to adding to your food storage a week at a time, also giving you recipes to use with the sale items...It's a great investment!

Consequences of thinking your 20

2009-04-27T09:52:00.004-06:00

Talan is showing his dad how to really use the crutches...
It's just a sprain said the Urgent Care Doctor...

But he will need to ICE (Ice, compression & Elevate) the sprained ankle. After slam dunking a basketball Cody came to the harsh realization that he is no longer in his 20's and needs to take special care and play with the older generation where dunking is not allowed and the pace is slowed way down. Apparently Brae and Tal are just too much skill for him :)

Season's First Rides

2009-04-19T20:35:00.005-06:00

Co broke out the motorcycle this weekend and we couldn't keep the kids off of it. Lexee and Talan both learned how to ride a two wheeler without training wheels.

Brae says it again...

2009-04-19T20:34:00.001-06:00

A car had stalled across the street and someone made a comment, "Is that a man or a woman?" Braeden out of nowhere says, "A Christian!"

We are the Champions with the help of a few experts

2009-04-15T21:38:00.003-06:00

We are the champions (or at least we know a few) and have now crossed the finish line. With a couple of months to spare, we had "no time for losers" We can't thank everyone enough for their help in finishing our basement. This is leading down the stairs to our "reading room". This is a perfect space for some bean bags and a book shelf for silent reading.

Braeden moved his stuff quickly to his room. He makes his bed every morning now and has requested no blinds or curtains saying, he likes to "watch the trees move"??? Talan has also spent the night here with Brae...Aww he misses his buddy.

Thanks to mom and dad for helping out with the $$$ and broken water pipe, Kenny for too much to list (electrical, heating, framing, insulation, mud, doors & molding), Justin for spending countless hours "bonding" with Cody as he sheetrocked & textured, Alyssa for the paint (LOVE the color) Richard and Dad for framing, Steph for letting us use her sprayer and telling me to have Cody do it and for everyone and their encouraging comments as we tried our hardest to learn from others as we go. For those of you who know Cody and I really understand what a huge feat this was for us. We do not ever claim to be handy (just ask Cody about the Christmas lights, shelf in the garage and dog run...) Anyone missing any tools please check with us as we didn't have more than a hammer before beginning and have aquired a few things that we really don't know what to do with :) Co and I will keep on fighting to the end :)

Easter

2009-04-15T21:27:00.004-06:00

The Easter Bunny visited and left a "romikle" or motorcycle for Talan. He thought it would be perfect since Talan is OBSESSED with Cody's motorcycle. I guess McCoy will get more use out of it. Of course the Easter Bunny purchased it before realizing he could now ride a "two-wheelo wif no training wheels".

Ang planned a fun Easter afternoon equipped with cupcakes and all the fun stuff to decorate them with and everyone helped provide a delicious meal. It was nice to get together with little to no stress.

Baseball season arrives in FULL SWING

2009-04-10T10:01:00.004-06:00

Ready to steal 3rd base!

Hits a double

He's ready to SMACK it!

Playing 3rd base Brae catches a fly ball...2nd out

Catches a grounder and tags the runner...3rd out in a row. The coach told our coach he wanted to see Brae's birth certificate :) Great job for your first game Brae!

Nearing the Finish Line with Doors!

2009-04-10T09:59:00.002-06:00

They are up and they open and close!

Little Bunny Foo Foo arrives early

2009-04-10T09:38:00.005-06:00

Nana & Grampa have to work on Easter, so we celebrated a little early. Because of the weather our party started out at Nana's house to decorate Easter baskets. There was $5 prize. To our surprise everyone WON!

Then we moved to our house and played "Don't eat PETE!" It's a great game that is entertaining for both big kids and toddlers!

Then we traveled a while (across the street) to Steph's for the Easter Egg hunt!

Out of the mouth of Brae...AGAIN

2009-04-05T22:35:00.002-06:00

Talan learned how to ride his bike without training wheels TODAY. Yep in one day. So I mentioned to Brae how I bet he can't wait to teach McCoy how to do stuff. He replied, "Yep I am gonna teach HIM(with emphasis) how to do the work. Before you GOT PREGNANT (more emphasis) YOU (the most emphasis) used to load the dishwasher!"

Texture, Sanding and Paint...

2009-04-02T22:25:00.003-06:00

Mud and Tape were done by Mr. P and Kenny. Thanks again!
Texture was done with the help of Justin and the broom stamp...if you don't have one get one! Thanks again!
No one ever told me to wear a mask when spraying paint. People should know I have no common sense when it comes to remodeling...just ask Kelley. I spent all night long coughing and blowing paint out of my nose, but the primer was accomplished! And now comes the color...Thanks Alyssa for the paint! We love the color!!!

11 Years Down and FOREVER to go

2009-03-26T10:47:00.005-06:00

We celebrated our 11 year wedding anniversary March 10th. We had a busy week so we waited until things slowed down to celebrate just the two of us. This last Monday we booked a room at The Castle Creek Inn in far away Cottonwood Heights (by the Walmart) It was so nice to forget about life for a whole day. We started out the day with a movie and then we headed downtown. We spent some time in the Visitors Center of the Salt Lake Temple. There is a small room where you can listen to a Modern Day Prophet talk on Families. We recommitted to our marriage and family. We ate the best dinner at The Melting Pot. It was a great night. Thanks Steph for taking the kids and getting them off to school the next morning.

Our Story:
We met on our Choir Trip our Senior Year in High School on the Beach in San Diego. I was tempted to body board in the ocean. As I was pursuaded by a group of friends, I requested someone show me how and he immediately stood and said that he would. Shocked, I took his extended hand and we headed into the ocean. One wave hit and then the other. Not much of a swimmer, I fell under and couldn't catch my breath. He held on. We spent the trip pretty inseparable. A friend of mine threw me in the pool and Cody rushed to my defense thinking he had hurt me. I knew at that moment I would always be protected and safe with him. The night he came home from Australia after we had both fasted and prayed, he asked me to marry him. My answer was, "Are you sure?" When he replied. "Of course!" I replied, "Then let's..." and we began our lives really young, with nothing to call our own except each other. From the moment I met Cody, I knew he was the one. The one who would protect, serve, love unconditionally, understand and look forward to FOREVER with.
Our wedding was on a beautiful, cool March morning. He arrived at the Temple before us. (Anyone who knows my dad knows that is quite a feat) Because we were both so early, we had a great deal of time in the Celestial Room waiting for our sealing. So we played paper, rock and scissors and complained we were hungry (no time to eat we didn't want to risk being late). We were sealed by Grandpa Baldwin. I remember looking around at so many who loved and supported us. As Cody and I walked back to the couch, he stepped on my train and popped off every button holding it up. We just smiled. We enjoyed our Wedding Breakfast at Little America. It was surreal. Then on to our reception at Seven Oaks Reception Center. Dad got into a fender bender and mom arrived in a police car holding my china and slip. Seven bridesmaids and seven groomsment later, we cut the cake and headed to far away Park City for our first night.
Cody makes me laugh because he is so real. I love his quirks and his obsessive way he folds his socks. We have grown-up together and I am so thankful for our life and FOREVER. I don't go a day without hearing how beautiful I am. When he asks how my day is, he really wants to know. He is so willing to work so hard for our family.

The Honest Scrap Award

2009-03-20T13:55:00.002-06:00

I love these kind of tags. Thanks Kelley! I started blogging because I don't journal or scrapbook. So these kind of tags give me a great opportunity to journal.

Here goes the tag:
It is called the honest scrap award and these are the rules...
A) First list 10 honest things about yourself--and make it interesting even if you have to dig deep.
B) Pass the award on to 7 bloggers that you feel embody the spirit of Honest Scrap...

I am deathly afraid of the dark. When Cody works graveyard, I have a light on in every room. When he doesn't work night shift he either leaves a well-thought pathway of light for me and then returns to turns them all off. I know that there are spirits all around us, both good and bad. I just don't want to talk to any of them. Honestly, I feel them so I would just prefer to run as fast as I can out of the dark and into the light...

I am very similar to Kelley when it comes to my conversation skills. I worry all the time that I might have offended someone. I get very nervous if I am just one on one with someone. I am not really confident. I was surprised when I read this about Kelley, but finally did not feel alone.

I love to snack in bed. Pathetic, huh. I don't snack all day but something happens when I go to get into bed. I just want a little something. It can be as simple as a glass of milk or as complex as a cupcake (which I usually can't have, so often I go to bed a little honery). The worst part of this habit is I don't clean up after myself right away, so when Cody comes home in the morning...he can usually tell.

I watch Days of our Lives. OK I DVR it. I know...it's bad but it's something I have done since I swear I was 8 years old. I don't die if I can't watch it, but there is a definite effort made to watch it late at night.

I love change, almost too much. I have to change something all the time. I find myself motivated by change. I clean better if I know I will be moving the furniture. I cook better if I am changing the way I serve. I sleep better if I am changing where I sleep. Hence the 11 moves to our house, like 15 different cars over the 11 years and new and exciting painting since I can't move if I want to stay married.

I am a yeller. I have always been accused of talking really loud. (Working in a nursing home for 12 years has not helped me to tone things down.) I wish I were more soft spoken. I have been told, "I can hear you, I am not across the street" MULTIPLE TIMES Maybe I have a hearing problem or something.

I am not very patient. I can fake patient, but I truly lack this virtue.

I don't ever take my contacts out. I have managed to go as long as an entire pregnancy without changing them.

I have a really difficult time letting things go. I worry about the WhAt If'S in life so much that I literally drive everyone around me crazy and find little joy in the small things.

I am a DREAM CRUSHER. I don't allow myself to dream and make extreme goals. I am always thinking that something will never work so why even try.

I tag the following: Liza, Jamie T, Holly, Cheryl, Stephanie, Hanna & Vinessa.

Real-life walls

2009-03-03T14:55:00.003-07:00

We are so lucky to have such good family and friends. Thanks Dad and Justin for your help with the sheetrock!

Out of the mouth of Brae

2009-02-26T20:53:00.004-07:00

Braeden has always been really conscious of his body. Today he said to Cody, "Why do you look so good?(With a complete irritated attitude as Cody was reaching in to the fridge.) Then he stuck out his tummy and said when I do this...like you...people call me fat. But I guess you're used to it...

In defense of Cody, he has been working out at the gym every day this week and is GORGEOUS as is! Notice the Olympic theme music as I am fully anticipating Cody's workouts to lead to the Olympics :)

Happy Birthday Lexee!

2009-02-23T22:46:00.004-07:00

We are so lucky to have Lexee in our lives. She is so smart and willing to love everyone around her. She is caring and enjoys life. She can wrestle with the best of them and keeps up with her brothers. Lexee came quickly to our family and has kept us on our toes. She has given us scares and always seems to come out ahead of the game. She loves school, has great handwriting and spells so well. She loves to teach school to her cousins and brother. She is such a girly girl, always waiting to get a little older awaiting make-up, driving and a cell phone. She loves to say her prayers! We love you, Lexee, Happy 7th Birthday!

Valentine's Day

2009-02-14T10:40:00.003-07:00

Breakfast in bed was a wonderful treat from Braeden and Lexee. Last night we were grilled by what we would want for breakfast if we were to someday get breakfast in bed.

Check out the strawberry on top. I love that Lexee pays attention to detail. A trait I appreciate.

We awoke to some rattling of dishes and some requests to "SHHH they are gonna hear us!" This was the first morning in a while that Cody was there. It was a wonderful surprise with exactly our favorites.

I am very lucky, Cody saved money from something he sold to a friend and bought me some Valentine surprises. I am so thankful for the thoughtfullness of my family!

It was an honor just to be nominated

2009-02-11T14:50:00.006-07:00

Thank-you Amber for this award!

It truly was an honor just being nominated :)
I nominate:
Vinessa Baldwin
Jamie Taylor
Liza Nelson
Kelley Allred
Melissa Miller (when you do post, they are great:)
Cheryl Loveless
Holly Strong
Kim Rogers
Jessica Lynch
Claudia Cash
This is what you need to do. Thank the person who gave the award to you, post the award on your blog or on a post, nominate 10 blogs which show great attitude/gratitude, link to the people you chose on your post, and comment on their blogs to tell them about the award!

Electrical..check Heating...check check!

2009-01-31T19:33:00.004-07:00

We are moving quite along thanks to Kenny and Jessica! Their expertise is amazing. I wish I knew of a good way to thank them!

NEXT: Sheetrock!

Framing...check!

2009-01-30T18:11:00.002-07:00

4 fights, 2 days, a nailgun and a broken water pipe...not bad for amateurs! Thanks Dad for fixing our water pipe (I don't have that much water storage) Thanks Kenny for your nail gun (and all other tools) and help! Thanks Richard for your referee skills and help on the rough DAY 2

After it's all said and done we will still be married. (hopefully) Co just doesn't realize that I am a framer by nature and he really should listen to me.. :)

A journey...a chore...a hammer?

2009-01-28T17:38:00.005-07:00

Another boy means we need to build a room. Cody and I are notorious for our handy skills. I think we have a hammer somewhere...
Braeden was anxious to vacuum the spider webs out of the window sill. This was his biggest concern of having a new room he also had an outragous request of some walls and a rug...
Talan is still convinced we are having a girl named Krista, yet was more than willing to help his dad carry the Christmas tree to the shed. He is such a powerhouse!
Our basement is a wealth of treasures...OK we put everything down there we don't care to use, see, or be bothered with...

Lexee is so proud...kind of

2009-01-23T19:25:00.002-07:00

We decided to do a gender check at the hospital. Lexee came with us, in the event the baby turned out to be a boy, she would be the one to tell people. We felt that the more involved she was the better for both her emotional status and the well-being of our new arrival. So we got situated in the ultra sound room and the tech came in and started checking. The tech then started saying how much she wished she had only brothers and how she wished she could have been the only "princess" in her family. And then it happened. Lexee was reading the TV above when the tech wrote, "It's a brother!" She seemed OK at first...then she started telling people. Pretty soon I started hearing with a tad bit of attitude, "I know, I know I will be the only princess!" or "Yep all brothers!" or "ANOTHER boy!" I have to admit all I could think about was, "Boys get girls preganant...and now my chances are even greater!"

Talan's 3rd

2009-01-04T22:40:00.003-07:00

Talan has been looking forward to his birthday for months. We kept telling him that it was after Santa comes and after Daddy's birthday. He woke up this morning and was thrilled it was finally here. They sang Happy Birthday to him in Nursery. He sang Happy Birthday to himself at his birthday party. We celebrated with his grandparents, aunts & uncles, and cousins with cake and ice cream. It was perfect! I have had so much fun with Talan. We joke he is an old soul in a little body. He is witty, flexible, athletic & energetic. He is anything but self-entertained, luckily he is a fun guy to be around. Looking over the past short time he has been on this earth, we feel so blessed he chose our family. He is curious, a tad bit mischievious and funny. You should never wake him. You should never think that he will get hurt if he tries that. You should never let him cry alone because he will go down like a ton of bricks. When he comes to he forgets why he was crying and carries on with his original plan. He loves to eat, lead music, dance and play games. He loves to play set-hike with Brae and "house" with Lex. His scooter has worn out and he has decided to take up skateboarding. He can flip on the tramp and has been known to let go of the swing in mid-air. We love you Talan! Happy Birthday!!!

Nana's Banana Bread

2009-01-03T19:57:00.002-07:00

Nana's banana bread has become very popular recently. She made some fresh today & sent a loaf to our family. What should have been neatly sliced and enjoyed with a little butter, was ripped into by Talan. He took the foil off and licked the entire loaf and then there was none! Bite after bite Talan polished off the entire loaf.

Laughs & Cheese Fries

2009-01-03T19:49:00.003-07:00

It's hard to believe we didn't grow up together. Melissa and I were able to reconnect a few years ago. Cousins by relation and truly friends. We found out after many hours how similar we are. It's amazing to know exactly how someone has felt and it's great to know that someone knows how I have felt. After our husbands laughed about regular yucky boy stuff, we talked about just about everything & we realized that not only were we similar but our cute husbands could have been brothers. We are sad to see them go back to Phily and look forward to their quick return for good!

A lesson learned

2009-01-01T11:38:00.003-07:00

A good friend of mine reminded me that blogging is about a history for our children and the importance of helping them see the ups and the downs of life. I realized that I don't want to portray perfection either in my blog. I even dreaded blogging Christmas because it didn't turn out the way I anticipated. I have always felt an incredible pressure to make sure the holiday season was filled with memories, enjoyment & perfection. This year there was emphasis on expectations. I worried about everyone else's expectations, I was enveloped in watching the clock because someone was expecting us somewhere, I focused so much on what I had to do to, I became bitter. Cooking & cleaning for the next guests, party or activity took precedence over enjoyment. I know it's just part of growing up. I hope that by reading this post next year I can prioritize and remember what I did wrong this year.

Christmas Day

2009-01-01T11:30:00.001-07:00

Yep that's a porta potty! We are that much closer to being prepared...

Christmas Eve

2009-01-01T11:26:00.001-07:00

Gingerbread House makin'

2008-12-14T19:49:00.002-07:00

Despite nighttime sickness, I am still trying to make sure we don't forget any basic traditions. So we bought a pre-made house and stuck it together. You don't see Talan, he was way too busy eating the gum balls.

A New Tradition

2008-12-14T19:41:00.003-07:00

We decided to spend a little of our Christmas budget to take our kids to Tepanaki. It was fun to see the kids react to the chef who prepared our meal right before our eyes.

Talan didn't enjoy the shrimp hitting him right in the middle of his cheek. In fact he was very put off that the chef would throw food at him.

The kids ate with chop sticks and actually finished the majority of their meal. Braeden wanted to go back the very next day.

The Forgotten Carols

2008-12-14T19:25:00.003-07:00

Every year we have a tradition to see the Forgotten Carols. Mom buys the tickets and we have a grown up night at a wonderful production.

Michael McLean is one of the most talented performers I have ever seen. This production makes us laugh and cry at the same time every single year.

I was scolded by a family member (Steph) for taking this picture. OK it was one of a few. However, the rules say no FLASH photography. (I turned my flash off)

She didn't mind me taking a picture of her, though.

Thanks Mom for providing this wonderful opportunity to truly remind us of the real reason for Christmas. I always leave the production with something newly learned every year.

Who needs a nanny?

2008-12-08T14:43:00.003-07:00

We had Logan, Aaliyah & Urban over for a sleepover on Friday. Urban awoke at 7:00 am and by the time I got into him, Lexee had made a bottle and was in the playpen (Thanks to Nessa) feeding him. She said, "Sorry Mommy, I know I am not supposed to be in here, but he was too heavy for me to lift out and he was STARVING, I hope Nessa won't be mad!" She assured me she only used 2 scoops of formula...but we'll never really know...
All of my fears of having a 4th have been subsided, Lex will be there!

The Festival of Trees

2008-12-08T14:33:00.003-07:00

Every year we celebrate the Festival of Trees. Traditionally, Angi, Vinessa, Marci, Lexee & Aaliyah and myself go. However, this year Lexee was going to perform at the Festival with L.A. Dance Company so we made it a family event. We were missing Grandpa, Jake & Adam of the Baldwin's but Lexee had a huge crowd to cheer her on.

She has worked really hard this season and did a great job! She is very thankful for Nana and the opportunity she has given Lexee & her cousins to be a part of such a great Dance Company.

And so the traditions begin

2008-12-01T18:25:00.002-07:00

Every year we trek downtown to see Temple Square. This year we went with Grandma Baldwin, Jake, Ness, Carter & Ethan. We planned to go a little earlier than usual, and we weren't the only ones.

It was a beautiful night and there were tons of people. Apparantly we weren't the only ones with the great idea. We didn't really have to bundle up, it was quite warm for the time of year. Talan particularly enjoyed the "elephanties". There was one elephant on an ethnic display. I wouldn't have even noticed, but he had to see it up close.

While walking through the crowds we noticed some things people were saying. One man said to another woman, "Oh put your big girl panties on and get over it!" Another woman said to her child, "You don't want to know what'll happen if you poke me in the eye again!" We made it our goal to listen to others as we fought the crowds. It was so funny! Not everyone fares well in crowds.

My cheap digital camera does not do justice to the beauty of the temple. And to top it off the batteries died. But you get the idea!

Drumroll please...

2008-11-28T20:09:00.003-07:00

Here's is how we got to this masterpiece...

We drew out a plan for our Christmas lights this year. WE (Cody) needed to remember which end went where to attach to the extention cord...cords :)
Talan drove us crazy wanting to get on the roof with dad. We THOUGHT he would be terrified on the first or second rung on the ladder. We were wrong...

Reading the directions for the hooks is always a good thing...Co decided to stay away from rewiring the extention cords this year...

Happy Holidays!

2008-11-28T20:00:00.001-07:00

Send your own ElfYourself eCards

Thankful for...

2008-11-18T18:50:00.003-07:00

Pants & underware most of the time. Last night Talan disappeared in his room. We were thinking of how quiet it had become...He came down wearing Braeden's baseball shoes & helmet & that's about it...less than commando, saying "Catch this..." He was really talking about the ball... he was throwing...

Yep...I'm thankful for...

2008-11-17T18:51:00.002-07:00

I would be so ungrateful if I didn't express my gratitude for our news. We found out we are pregnant about 3 weeks ago, but this weekend I started to spot. I have never had any complications with the exception of miscarriage the first time I was pregnant over 9 years ago. That time I had no sign of miscarriage at all until the ultrasound. So to say the least I was very nervous when I presented with a sign of miscarriage. I am so thankful for technology and the ease of requesting an ultrasound to check for a heartbeat. I am thankful for my very cute husband who was right by my side. We are excited to announce that we are expecting our 4th & final child. Lexee prays each day that it's a girl and Braeden has the basement blueprinted for his new room, if it's a boy. Either way we hope & pray for the health of this baby.

It's just us

Favorites during one quiet day~ Septemberish 2010

Fall 2010

Talan's First Day of Preschool...or first day away from me

First Day of School 8/16/2010

Braeden turned 10! July 16, 2010

Baseball Season Spring 2010

LA Dance Mini Team

Kearns Hometown Parade

My First Birthday!

Easter

I am 9 months old!

Lexee's baptism

Happy Birthday Lex!!!

"Hey Co~ I want to learn a new skill..."

So it's been 3 months...

Ice Skating

Happy Birthday Talan!

Christmas Eve

A picture says a thousand words

The Polar Express 12/14/09

Festival of Trees 12/5/09

Let the Season begin 11/30/09

West Valley Christmas Parade

Bath Time

Halloween 2009

Cornbelly's 10/24/09

Left at the Gas Station10/17/09

Gardner Village 10/17/09

Last game of the season

He FINALLY gets to play!

I wish I had done this 9 years ago

Where is Cody?

Kearns Town Parade

The Feeders

2 months old *sniff, sniff*

More B-NANA Bread

McCoy's blessing

bAck 2 ScHooL

3 Weeks of Summer Vacation

Happy Birthday Brae!

"Wow Mom you are THIRTY-TWO!!"

The Big Green

All Stars & The Bees

Fun in the Sun

All Stars- First Tournament

4th of July Celebrations

Super powers baby...

Going Home

I want my OWN!

Welcome McCoy Miles Baldwin

OVER DUE APPRECIATION

Oquirrh Mountain Temple

100% Spelling Tests = Reward??

You did great!

Nice Shoes

What does it take to get a duck to take the bread?

Mom, Popcorn and Nursery

Our Moms

I married my Prom Date!

Relishing in Savings

Consequences of thinking your 20

Season's First Rides

Brae says it again...

We are the Champions with the help of a few experts

Easter

Baseball season arrives in FULL SWING

Nearing the Finish Line with Doors!

Little Bunny Foo Foo arrives early

Out of the mouth of Brae...AGAIN

Texture, Sanding and Paint...

11 Years Down and FOREVER to go

The Honest Scrap Award

Real-life walls

Out of the mouth of Brae

Happy Birthday Lexee!

Valentine's Day

It was an honor just to be nominated

Electrical..check Heating...check check!

Framing...check!

2 months old sniff, sniff