Pieces of Me

Easter Cuteness!

2010-04-24T12:48:00.002-06:00

Seriously do you get any cuter then these three? Love them!

Easter Morning

2010-04-24T12:44:00.002-06:00

This was Chloe's first Easter. First Easter basket, and first baby doll. She just wanted to eat the plastic eggs.

kiss me, i'm cute and maybe a little Irish

2010-03-23T13:15:00.004-06:00

O.K. Seriously! Do you get any cuter? I don't think so!

As much as you want to pinch her, you can't, because she is wearing green!

I just love this little red headed beauty more than I can express.

Happy St. Patrick's Day from Chloe Mae.

YEP! I'm 4!

2010-03-23T13:02:00.002-06:00

On March 2nd Aidan turned 4! It is crazy to think that it is true! He is such a fun kid, with a wicked sense of humor! He makes me laugh everyday! I love him!

His ice cream cake with two mice on what looks like a block of cheese. He picked it!

Blowing out the candles. Chloe is impressed!

All Aidan wanted for his birthday was every Lego ever made, so he had to settle for four. Dad and Aidan building his Legos.

the love of a girl and her banana

2010-03-23T12:57:00.003-06:00

This little one loves her banana! She will eat a whole banana every morning. She chows down on the whole thing. She gets so excited when she sees me peeling one. It just makes me laugh.

buds

2010-03-23T12:45:00.002-06:00

These two just love each other! Aidan is so cute with her and Chloe just lights up whenever she sees him. I love watching Aidan with her when he doesn't know that I'm watching because he is so good to her. Friends for life! What's better?

here comes the airplane...

2010-03-23T12:38:00.002-06:00

Aidan loves to help out, especially when it comes to Chloe. Here he is feeding her breakfast. He is such a great big brother. And she loves her Aiders! What a lucky girl!

Meet Maxine

2010-03-18T15:24:00.003-06:00

She's a Sagittarius who enjoys men, late 80's T-bird's, a good boxed wine, and always a good time!

Cheers!

We all had so much fun dressing up in my mom's wigs! When times are tough you got to laugh, and laugh is what we do best!

first chemo

2010-03-18T15:13:00.002-06:00

The first of February was my moms start of chemo. And I was so glad that I could be there for it. Paige came a few days later for her second round. Although she was getting hooked up with poison, we still managed to have some fun... nothing can really stop us women!

Chloe, me, Paige, and mom.

Me and mom.

knitting a beanie at chemo.

Getting poisoned!

bring in the new year!

2010-03-16T16:13:00.002-06:00

Partying up with a woman who just got home from surgery! Woo woo! The kids had a fun New Years at grammies and papa's!

Ben, Aidan, Joel, and Carter going crazy into the wee hours of the morning.

finally sitting up

2010-03-16T16:06:00.002-06:00

Yes, at almost 7 months my baby girl hit a milestone she should have hit at about 5 months, sitting up. Ya, she may be a bit delayed, but she sure is cute! :)

haircuts

2010-03-16T15:56:00.002-06:00

Surprisingly this was the first time I have ever taken the boys to get their hair cut. I normally just do it. So when I was home at Christmas time my mom and I took them. And they were awesome!

Carter before.

Carter after.

Aidan before.

Aidan after. He did not want any spikes!!!

And Chloe just waiting with Grandma.

visit to Oakland Temple

2010-03-16T15:50:00.003-06:00

When we were home at Christmas time we went and saw the lights at the Temple. This is also where Aidan thought that the animals ate baby Jesus. Let me explain, papa Mark and Aidan were looking at the nativity and Mark asked Aidan if he could see baby Jesus, in which case Aidan replied, "No, I think the animals ate baby Jesus." The nativity was all white and it was kind of hard to see who was who. We told Aidan if that had happened things would have turned out a bit different. Ha, ha!

Christmas morning

2010-03-15T16:01:00.003-06:00

Their letters to Santa.

The boys were so excited. This year was really great because they were so into it! And to top it off, my mom was there to watch it all!

Christmas in California

2010-03-15T15:51:00.002-06:00

I went out to Cali in Mid December for my moms surgery and then decided to stay out there for Christmas. Joe and the boys drove out and met me and Chloe there and we spent Christmas with my family. It was a Christmas miracle because my mom came home from the hospital on Christmas Eve after only being there for one week after major surgery. It was awesome! We didn't expect here home that soon. This is the Sunday before Christmas after church.

Sledding Time!

2010-03-15T15:47:00.001-06:00

Carter and Aidan getting ready to go sledding at the golf course.

The Unabomber's son

2010-03-15T15:45:00.003-06:00

oh wait, it's just Aidan in my sunglasses.

Sassy the tree

2010-03-15T15:43:00.002-06:00

Chloe at 6 months old

2010-03-15T15:35:00.003-06:00

6 Months Old December 2, 2009

16 lbs. 50%

26 in. long 85-90%

and a tiny head 20%

Christmas Tree oh Christmas Tree may I call you Sassy

2010-03-15T15:29:00.003-06:00

This is Chloe watching us put up the Christmas tree. The tree that Aidan so lovingly named Sassy. Every year we have a tradition in our house that we name out Christmas tree and this year Aidan got to name it. So we think he may be gay... the tree I mean. :)

round and round we go

2010-03-15T15:24:00.002-06:00

At the carousel in Salem Oregon over Thanksgiving.

Thanksgiving '09

2009-12-12T21:00:00.004-07:00

Skits and Dance Parties

2009-12-12T20:53:00.004-07:00

You know when you were a kid and you loved putting on plays, skits, or performances for anyone that would watch?

Well, I do... and so it begins for my kids.

Can you say gangsta'?

Fam at Thanksgiving

2009-12-12T19:23:00.004-07:00

Grammie Liz and Chloe.

Grammie Liz reading to the kids at Paige's house.

Chloe and Quinlan.

Memorial for G & G Larsen

2009-12-09T18:28:00.005-07:00

Chloe (5 months), me, Paige, and my mom setting up the memorial for my Grandma and Grandpa Larsen at the house that they lived in for 11 years.

Halloween '09

2009-12-08T18:08:00.004-07:00

Yes, we all did it this year! And, I have to admit it was very fun! Joe and I were both basketball players. He was a throw back and I was really just free marketing.

My little flower. She wanted out of that thing all night!

Captain Rex, Obi-Won Kanobi and Baby Flower.

Me and my girl!

Carter's Halloween Parade '09

2009-12-08T17:55:00.004-07:00

Rex waiting for the parade to begin.

There's my little pumpkin!

Obi-Won Kanobi! Watch out!

Carter with his class on Halloween. Mrs. Rocha's first grade class.

Carving pumpkins white trash style

2009-11-17T12:32:00.003-07:00

Why is it necessary to carve pumpkins without a shirt on?

The finished products. How cute are they? Joe's hand was so tired!

So Kissable!

2009-10-22T12:43:00.007-06:00

I just can't get enough of this little one! I just want to squeeze her all day long! Look at those cheeks and that button nose. Don't you just want to pinch them? Love her!

Birthday Suit

2009-10-22T12:40:00.007-06:00

Even though it was Joe's birthday, Aidan thought he should be in his Birthday Suit. Happy Birthday Daddy!

One rare moment

2009-10-17T22:38:00.004-06:00

Today I took Carter and Aidan to see Where The Wild Things Are (one of my favorite children's books) and it was just great! And I had one really neat moment with Carter. At the end of the movie when Max is leaving the Wild Things and returning home, I looked over at Carter and saw that he was crying. After the movie was over he came over to me and gave me a big hug and was just sobbing. I think he was a bit confused as to why he was crying. I asked him why he was crying and he said that he was happy and sad that Max was able to get home and see his mom. It just melted my heart and mad me cry as well. I love that kid. He holds such a special place in my heart. Carter, thanks for giving me a wonderful moment today. And a day to make me feel so proud to be your mom.

Happy Birthday JB

2009-10-17T22:36:00.001-06:00

Happy Birthday to Joe, whose birthday was yesterday! We think you are one awesome dad and one hot hubby! Happy 32, we love you!

Cereal... Yum... or not!

2009-10-15T18:42:00.004-06:00

Just the other day I tried baby cereal for Chloe for the first time. She looks happy here before the food took place, but she soon turned sour faced because she was not sure if she was a fan or not. Every time I put some in here mouth she would just shake all over. So, we will try again soon. But, really what can I say about this one. She is always smiling! She has a perma-smile on all the time! She is just the best! Love her!

Lovin' my bumbo seat!

Oh, so not yummy, but I'm still cute!

We like to help her

2009-10-15T18:40:00.006-06:00

The boys love to help Chloe do just about everything. One morning they were helping her practice sitting up.

Let me read you a story

2009-10-15T18:02:00.005-06:00

Carter has really found a love for writing. So, when one of his books he wrote at school came home he thought that Aidan and Chloe would love to hear it. Here he is reading it to them one night before bed. This was too cute!

I love getting my face painted!

2009-10-15T17:51:00.004-06:00

Aidan loves getting his face painted! Anytime there is a place to get it done he is all over it!

Aidan and Carter October '08 at Thanksgiving Point.

Aidan at the race in September '09.

Aidan at home with marker on his face September '09.

She found her thumb!!!

2009-10-05T12:35:00.005-06:00

Baby girl found her thumb! Can I tell you how much I love thumb suckers! They are the best babies because they can sooth them selves. Carter was a thumb sucker and one of the best babies!

Chole at 4 months:

weight: 13 lbs. 6 oz.

height: 24 in. long

50% for weight

75% for height

25% for head

I just adore this little girl. She is delicious! She is everything that is good. I am so grateful for the joy that she has brought into this house. She is trying to sit up and getting close to rolling over. She sleeps through the night and is now sucking her thumb. I love it!

Bye, Bye rat tail!

2009-10-05T12:26:00.007-06:00

My kids always get some sort of rat tail or mullet when they are little babies! So I finally decided a few weeks ago that it was time to say so long to the rat tail on Chloe. It was getting really nasty looking. So she had her first hair cut at 3 1/2 months.

We will miss you little latino baby!

The first of many school projects

2009-10-05T12:16:00.007-06:00

At Foothill Elementary they have this tradition to decorate soda bottle for the fall festival and do a cake walk type thing to get them. So, the night before, Carter tells me that he wants to do one. So, at around 9pm we start on some concept. Well, being that they love Star Wars we decided to make a light saber. I think it turned out pretty good if I do say so my self. Carter thought it was pretty awesome! This gave me a glimpse of thinks to come in many more years of school and school projects and 9pm work sessions where in all reality I end up doing it.

Are you sure I can't do just the 1K?

2009-10-05T09:30:00.007-06:00

On September 19, we ran in our first race ever! Joe did the 6K, I did the 3K and Carter did the 1K. This race was called Racing Cane. I really wanted to do the 1K, but you had to be under 12. So, Joe and I trained to two weeks and went and did it. Neither one of us were any good, but it was fun to do. Carter loved doing the race and wants to do more. I even won a medal for coming in 3rd place for my age group, but that isn't saying much because there were only four people in my age group! LOL! So know we are signed up to do the Provo half in May, so we'll see how that goes. I have to say that I am proud of my self for doing it though being that I had had a baby 3 months earlier and done no physical activity in a year! Way to go us!

Joe helping Carter get ready for the race.

The guys before the race. Joe, Dave Eves, John, and Dave Brotherson.

The girls before the race. Julie, Courtney and I.

Carter just before the race.

Carter racing!

Amongst Giants... Literally

2009-10-04T19:27:00.005-06:00

Yes, that is Carter and he is on the right team! He is playing under 8! He looks like he is going to get eaten alive! But, he is actually doing alright. He really likes it and has fun. His team is called the Green Reptiles! Scary huh?

Carter Purple Belt

2009-10-04T19:19:00.007-06:00

On September 3 Carter got his purple stripe belt at belt promotion. Way to go Bud!!!

2 month update on Chloe

2009-10-04T19:05:00.007-06:00

This is Chloe at 2 months:

10 lbs. 8 oz.

22 in. long

50% for weight

75% for height

25% for head

She is such a happy baby and still loves to be held and rocked to sleep. She is such a great baby! And super cute by the way!

I heart OJ!

2009-09-04T12:08:00.005-06:00

Aidan loves his OJ! He drinks so much of it. I go through bottles this big about twice a week! It still amazes me how much he drinks and how often he goes to the bathroom!

Carter's 1st Day of First Grade!

2009-08-23T13:59:00.007-06:00

On Thursday, August 20, Carter started his first day of first grade. He was very excited! It really is crazy to think that it is this time of year already! I am also very excited for school. He is gone from 9-3:30, that means no fighting for many hours! I am excited with his teacher and his class. He has Mrs. Rocha, and we hear she is great! He has some great kids in his class and I think he will have a great year. And Aidan is excited to be able to play with all of his toys while he is gone.

Rockin' his G.I. Joe backpack, which is as big as he is.

Me and Carter before his first day of school.

Carter at his desk in class at his first day of school!

Aidan's First Day of Pre-School

2009-08-19T16:34:00.005-06:00

Aidan had his first day of pre-school yesterday. He is going to a place called Kid's Village. It is super cute. He was very excited and liked that he was going and not Carter. He is going two days a week and gets to even do cooking class. How cool is that!

Look at this funny 3 1/2 year old!!!

All of these poses were Aidan's own doing and not mine. It cracks me up how he thinks he modeling for Calvin Klein or something.

Me and my Aiders!

Aidan in his classroom on his first day with his apron on and everything.

Lego Dude Cake Battle

2009-08-18T19:54:00.005-06:00

Since being obsessed with Food Network Channel, on Sunday the boys and I thought it would be fun to make and decorate a cake however they wanted. So, of course it ended up as a Lego cake! They put just about every Lego dude they have on the cake. They picked the frosting colors and the cake flavors.

We had a lot of fun!

And the finished product became one big blob of Lego decadence!

The boys decorating the cake.

And... The aftermath.

The Lego's needed a nice bath to get cleaned up.

Oh, how yummy! Whoops, found a Lego!

Let me dress my self!

2009-08-18T19:50:00.005-06:00

This is what happens when you let a 3 year old dress themselves!

Aidan with shirts on bottom and shorts on top!

A Farewell to Carter and Silky

2009-08-06T14:47:00.008-06:00

Now that Carter is 6 years old he has decided that it is time to say good-bye to his "Silky". Other names that it is called are "Heavy Silk" (he would call it that when really little because he didn't understand the difference between big and heavy), or just "Silk". Carter has had two Silky's, one was called "Silka One" because he got that blanket first and it was little and the other was "Heavy Silk". About two years ago he lost "Silka One" and so all was focused on Heavy Silk which he now just refers to as Silk. He got "Silka One" before he was even born and has used it ever since he was a few months old. He got "Heavy silk" or "Big Silk" when he was one. He would hold on to his Silky's and suck his thumb. He would always use both to relax or calm himself down and go to sleep; it really was wonderful! Silkys have lived in three houses and traveled the world. Oh, the places they have been, they have seen everything Carter has from Sea World to the Zoo to Disneyland to Jackson Hole to Hawaii to Florida and all the way to the Caymans.

It has only been a week with no Silk in tow, but Carter has not mentioned him. It is just sitting up in his room. I have to say that it makes me kind of sad to no longer see it with Carter on the couch or in the car because it really means that my little boy is growing up. I saw this coming for a few months now because Carter has started to get embarrassed by it and did not want people to see him with it and he kept saying that when he turned six that he was going to give up silk and stop sucking his thumb.

They have really been a great friend and we will sadly miss them.

An homage to "The Silk":

Carter and Silk sitting with Daddy and watching TV. "07

Silk in a usual place all alone just waiting for Carter to come and hold him. "07

One of the few pictures with Big Silk and Silka One at Disneyland in "07.

Carter and Aidan and Silk watching TV in Mom and Dad's room '07.

Silk out to dinner in the Cayman Islands '08.

Chloe's Blessing

2009-08-04T14:32:00.006-06:00

On Sunday August 2 we blessed Chloe Mae at church. It was a really nice day! The blessing Joe gave was beautiful. People said that Chloe was just looking up and smiling at Joe during the entire blessing. We had so many friends and family there to support us and we are very grateful for that. Chloe looked very angelic in her blessing dress. I felt very blessed that day to have such a sweet baby girl in our family and for my boys as well.

Blessing Day with Grammie's and Papa's

2009-08-04T14:26:00.004-06:00

We are so grateful that both Grandparents were able to come up for Chloe's blessing. It was such a great day!

Chloe with Grammie Liz and Papa Mark

Chloe with Grammie Karen and Papa Cecil and cousin Melissa.

Carter's 6th Birthday!

2009-07-31T23:27:00.005-06:00

Dear Carter,

Happy Birthday my sweet boy! I can't believe you are six years old. The time has flown bye. You are a great kid. You are very competitive and you love to be first in everything you do, even though it drives me nuts! You are so great with Chloe and are so sweet with her. You and Aidan play and fight all day long, but I know you love him. I love just watching you two when you are cracking each other up. You love to play with your friends. You love Legos like there is no tomorrow, playing with dudes and basketball. You love your cartoons and your silk even though you said it is time for you to give it up, now that you are six. You love to chat and to have your down time. You are so much a product of me and I love you! I hope you had a great day and may more to come. I can't wait to see how you grow and to see the boy and man you will be. Thanks for coming into our lives six years ago.

I love you!

Love, Mom

Photo Shoot for Chloe

2009-07-21T14:41:00.003-06:00

This past weekend while Joe and the boys were camping I had Chloe's pictures taken. Here are a few of my favorites. Thanks Trina, they turned out beautiful!

Chloe's beautiful Blessing dress.

Chloe 6 weeks old.

Grandpa Alfie's Funeral

2009-07-21T14:20:00.004-06:00

About a week and a half a go we went home for my Grandpa Larsen's funeral. It was a really nice service and they did a military burial which was really neat with the whole flag folding thing. They folded the flag and then gave it to my mom, it was really cool! It was also nice to see all my family and spend time with them. We had a great time and a lot of fun.

We all took a rose and put it on his casket.

Here are some of the kids with the roses.

4th of July '09

2009-07-21T14:11:00.004-06:00

We had a really nice 4th of July. We went to John and Courtney's and had a fun time with family and friends. I think Joe loves this holiday more than anyone else because he buys illegal fireworks and lights them! He is like a kid in a candy store! What is it with guys and blowing things up?

Chloe's 1st Bath

2009-07-21T13:42:00.005-06:00

Needless to say, Chloe did not like her first bath at home! She cried through it all. We gave her a bath that night we got home from the hospital. But now she loves her bath and just hangs out in there.

Chloe and her Grammies

2009-07-21T13:34:00.006-06:00

Chloe and Grammie Liz the day she was born.

Chloe and Grammie Karen, 3 days old.

Chloe and Great Grammie Marge, 2 weeks old.

Purple Stripe Belt!

2009-07-21T13:02:00.002-06:00

The day I got home from the hospital with Chloe (June 4th), Carter had his belt promotion. He is now a Purple Stripe Belt. Way to go Carter, we are very proud of you!

In Loving Memory...

2009-07-08T17:37:00.005-06:00

of Captain Alf Larsen

My grandpa Larsen past away on June 24, 2009. We love you and miss you.

He was the best grandpa anyone could ask for. He had a stroke 13 years ago and has been in a home for quite a while. This picture was taken two years ago, but I think it was the last one that I took with him and the boys.

Grandpa, I am so glad that you are in a better place with Grandma and David. I am grateful for your influence in my life and the great man that you were.

Three weeks in

2009-06-28T12:27:00.002-06:00

A little bit about this sweet baby at three weeks old.
She is such a great baby! My boys were good babies, but Chloe is just a delight. She is so content and sweet. She is a great sleeper and eater. She has even slept through the night three times! She loves to be held and loves to snuggle with her dada. She loves it when the boys come and talk to her. She loves her hands by her face and likes to lay flat on her back to do her business. She is the princess in the house and we are all in love with her.

Life with big brothers

2009-06-28T12:15:00.002-06:00

Oh, what this sweet little girl has to look forward to... two crazy big brothers!

Carter just loves her! He tells me that everyday. He always says how cute she is and he loves talking to her. In his prayers he says, "thank you for Chloe, the awesomest baby in the world!" It is really cute how he is with her.

Aidan is great with her also, he is just not as interested as Carter. I am so proud of the two boys and how sweet they are with her and how great they have been with this new addition.

Coming home for the first time

2009-06-28T12:11:00.003-06:00

We came home from the hospital on Thursday June 4th. She was not thrilled with getting dressed or being squished in her car seat.

Introducing Chloe Mae

2009-06-06T23:51:00.005-06:00

Here is my little princess, Chloe Mae Brown.

Born June 2, 2009

6 lbs. 14 oz.

19 in. long

She is just perfect with her button nose, rose bud lips and red hair.

Just chillin' on mom after a long day. How sweet is she?

Last Day of Kindergarten

2009-05-29T11:16:00.004-06:00

Today was Carter's last day of school! I Can't believe that kindergarten is over. He is going to be in first grade next year and that is just crazy to me. He was really excited about today. He has really loved school and done so well, I am very proud of him and what a good kid he is.

Being silly before school!

In his classroom getting ready to go.

Here he is with his teacher, Mrs. Graham. He loved her and so did I. She was great for him and he made some wonderful progress in her class this past year. I hope Aidan gets her when he goes to Kindergarten.

Dance Festival

2009-05-27T13:09:00.003-06:00

Carter had a Dance Festival today at school. They did a dance and song about reading. It was really cute and I think he had fun doing it. Only two days left of Kindergarten for him. I can't believe it is almost over!

Mother's Day

2009-05-27T12:59:00.003-06:00

I know Mother's Day was almost a month ago but I am just getting around to it. I love being a mother, but I think it is funny that the one day that you are supposed to celebrate motherhood is the one day that you don't want to do anything motherly.

Mother's Day was great! I did nothing all day, but get pampered! Joe got me beautiful roses and new perfume and a very sweet letter of his undying love and appreciation!:) The boys got me some jewelry and dresses. They even picked them out themselves and I have to say they did a great job! We went to Joe's sisters house and all the guys made dinner for us and it was delicious. It always tastes better when you don't have to cook it. Kudos to the guys, they did an awesome job!

Thanks to my boys for making my Mother's Day wonderful! I love you!

SUPERSTAR!

2009-05-11T11:59:00.004-06:00

Jack the Cat

Last Thursday Carter had his first play and his first staring role. He was "Jack the Cat" in is kindergarten play of The Perfect Nest. He was so excited about it. He woke up at around 6:30 in the morning because he just wanted to go to school and do the play. He loved everything about the whole acting process, especially being the lead!! This kid loves to be the center of attention!

He did so good, he memorized all his lines and did it perfect on the night of the play! I was so proud of him! His teacher said that he found his niche with the whole performing thing. No big surprise! Carter thinks that the world revolves around him, perfect for an actor I think!

The pictures aren't great because my camera is old and this 8 foot tall dude's head is in everything. He was so annoying, I wanted to punch him!!!

Easter Boys

2009-04-14T13:55:00.004-06:00

I love Easter because I can dress my boys up in things they would not normally let me put them in.

The cutest room ever!

2009-04-13T12:24:00.003-06:00

A couple of weeks ago my mom came up to help me get the room ready for the baby. And man did we work hard! O.K., by we, I mean my mom! My mom painted the room and it looks great! This room used to be blue and it was the boys play room. It is amazing how some pink can really transform this into such a girlie space. I am very proud of myself because we did this room on a very small budget. I used so many things that I just happened to have and we refinished them. It was really fun. I love that I have some old pieces that used to be my grandparents, it gives it some special meaning. I think my grandma would be proud at how far her little dresser has made it! Anyways, here are the photos of the room!

This is the dresser that we refinished and got the cutest knobs for. Thanks Anthropology! I have to say this turned out better than I imagined and it is my favorite piece in the room. This dresser has seen my through my two boys and before that used to be my grandma's! It is one old, but great dresser!

Did the art myself, painted the lamp and made the shade!

Did the art myself and painted and redid the baskets.

The curtains really make the room come together. I was able to use rods that I had already had from before and they look perfect in the room.

My mom stripped and painted the chairs. These are old chairs that were my grandparents and we think were my aunt Isabelle's before that. We painted the shelves, and even painted one of the bird houses. We got so much done that week, it was awesome! There is still a few things that I need to do in this room, so when those are done I will post more pictures!

We are ready for you little girl!!!

Sinning or Skiing???

2009-04-08T13:39:00.006-06:00

This past weekend after the first session of Conference Joe took the boys skiing up at Sundance. This was the last day to do lessons up there and Joe has been promising Carter he would take him skiing all winter. I think guilt finally set in and he took him. But, because Carter was going, Aidan wanted to go to! Aidan is still a bit young for lessons, but he went up and just played in the snow. Carter was so excited! All was well until Aidan got a splinter in his hand, or should I say at tree branch, because that thing was huge!! Joe had to bring him home and then go back to get Carter.

So would you say sinners or good father/son time?

Aidan looks so ghetto because we don't really have snow clothes for him that fit. His pants were like capris. And his goggles kept falling down and making his eyes all droopy; he looked very "Special". Oh well, he didn't really mind! I could not stop laughing and Aidan kept saying, "Stop laughing at me!"

Carter and his instructor. Watch out Bodie Miller!!!

The two guys.

Aidan said he had fun throwing snow at bugs!

Lunch of Champions!

2009-04-06T13:12:00.005-06:00

This is what Aidan had for lunch yesterday. A variety of 3 different chips. Oh, don't get the wrong idea, like I don't feed my kids nutritious meals because right before this he was spooning out peanut butter and eating it (that is good protein, right?). I just know he is going to grow big and strong if he stays on this path! :)

He didn't want me taking pictures of this fine moment. Trust me, I'm not sure I want this moment documented either; I think this might borderline child abuse. Please don't call CPS!!

Nothing like some old friends

2009-04-06T12:59:00.004-06:00

When we went down to California in February we were able to go and visit some of our favorite people, The Romeril's! Carter was beyond excited to see his best friend Riley! They quickly put on the basketball gear and went crazy. It was so great so see them, they are like family and we miss them so much!

Carter and Riley

Riley, Carter, and Aidan

Carter, Riley, Makayla, and Aidan

Bunk Beds

2009-04-05T21:12:00.005-06:00

In February I thought it was time to get Aidan out of the crib and into a big boy bed. The boys were both so excited about the idea of bunk beds even though I was not. (I hate changing them!) They got new sheets and were so excited. I have to say all and all they have done great sharing a room and beds. There have really been no problems; they have even slept better then they did before. Carter no longer comes down to our room every night, and Aidan doesn't cry when he goes down, and he hasn't even fallen out of bed. The only thing is that Aidan now gets up much earlier because Carter does. Aidan used to get up around 10-11am!! Yeah, I know, he was a crazy sleeper! Now he gets up around 8-8:30am. In all reality it is better because I can get more done with him up at a reasonable hour and he will take a nap.

I have to say this has been a success!

Carter was pumped to be on the top bunk!

Aidan's first night in his new bed! Soooo cute!

Breakfast with Kung Fu

2009-03-26T13:03:00.007-06:00

Aidan loves his panda, who's name is "Kung fu Panda". He takes him everywhere and he even sleeps on him like a pillow. This morning he said that he wanted to make Kung Fu breakfast. He said that he made him jelly fish, peanut butter and jelly round-up, chips, and fruit snacks. It was really cute to see him sitting there and Kung fu in the other chair. Aidan says that Kung Fu is his best friend!

How great is this kid?!!!

My Little Baker

2009-03-26T12:55:00.003-06:00

A couple of weeks ago I decided to make chocolate muffins after church and Aidan wanted to help. Aidan loves to help with whatever I am doing from laundry to cleaning to cooking. But his help this day mostly consisted of muffin batter eater. He was lovin' it!

Aidan's 3rd Birthday on March 2nd

2009-03-26T12:42:00.005-06:00

We celebrated Aidan's birthday with just us and it was really nice. We went to Disneyland the weekend before so we figured that was a pretty good party for your 3rd birthday. Aidan decided he wanted to go to Tucanos for his birthday dinner, and he didn't eat anything! Carter was the one that really wanted to go there and he convinced Aidan that there is where we should go.

The Cake that Aidan and Carter decorated - so beautiful!

Playing with the new birthday presents.

Aidan was so excited about the big present!

Carter, of course, has to help out.

Burn Victim

2009-03-05T12:24:00.005-07:00

The night we got back from our trip to L.A. our house was super cold because we had turned the heat off while we were gone. So Joe decided to turn on the fire place because it heats up the house quicker than the heater. Sometime while we were unloading the car and getting everything unpacked Aidan touched the fireplace glass and burned his hand. The sad part about this story is that he hid and was really quiet and was holing his hand. He wouldn't tell us what happened because he thought he would get in trouble. I felt so bad! Our kids are so scared of us that they won't even tell us when they are hurt... I don't think that is a good thing. He wasn't really crying about it, he just wouldn't let us look at it. A total of 8 Batman band aids really helped!! The burn was not really bad at all, he even took the band aids off in the morning. He now asks me everyday if the fireplace is on. I still feel bad for my little guy. :(

At the happiest place on earth!

2009-03-04T17:24:00.002-07:00

Of course you have to take a family picture at Disneyland!

As we were leaving Disneyland around 11 pm, I said, let's get a picture of us before we leave. And Joe said "Why, it's not going to be any good?!" he can be such a downer sometimes! But, I have to admit, it really wasn't any good, we all look a bit wiped!

Another picture of us and again not a very good one! What is wrong with us? And, yes, I am officially big and fat!! I normally try and avoid all photos when I am pregnant, somehow a few got in.

Another trip to good old Disneyland!

2009-03-04T16:52:00.004-07:00

This past weekend we went down to So Cal to see Joe's parents and to get away. We took the boys to Disneyland on Friday and we had the best time! Joe's parents came and joined us for a few hours and my parents were down there also. So, the boys had Disneyland and both of their Grammies and Papas. Does it get any better than that? I don't think so! Disneyland was great it wasn't too crowded and the weather couldn't have been any better! We had the best time. I think I love Disneyland as much if not more than my kids. I love spending time with just Joe and the boys, we always end up having so much fun!

I was a bit worried that my boys were going to get beat up in L.A. for wearing Celtics sweatshirts.

Aidan was game for just about any ride. Too bad he isn't tall enough for most of them.

Aidan and Daddy on the Rocket Ships!

On the Jungle Cruise, and Aidan being his normal self.

They love getting autographs! Here they are with Jesse from Toy Story.

Future Criminals

2009-03-04T16:46:00.004-07:00

At Disneyland my boys were trying as hard as possible to get into this house. A few minutes after this picture was taken Aidan scaled the fence and tried getting in through the window, no joke!

What us? We weren't doing anything!!

It's the big 03!

2009-03-02T10:03:00.002-07:00

Happy 3rd Birthday Aidan!

To my Aiders,

You crack me up all the time. You do the silliest stuff. You can be so sweet and then so infuriating! You defiantly have a mind of your own and want things done a certain way. You are always up to go anywhere and do anything, you just want to have fun. You want to be like your big brother and want to play with him all the time even if he doesn't want to play with you because you beat him up and always start a fight with him. You love to rock your p.j.'s or basketball shorts under all of your clothes all the time. You love your Kung Fu Panda and sleep on him every night. You also love saying potty words whenever possible and you think it is hilarious!

In spite of all of that, I am so glad that you came into our family 3 years ago. Life definitely would not be the same without you! I love your brute Bam Bam style and your sweet kindness at the same time. There isn't a day that goes by that you don't make me laugh! You are the cutest, funniest little kid that I know. I love you to pieces!!

I hope you have a great birthday Aider Bug!

Love, Mom

Happy Birthday to Me!

2009-02-16T14:09:00.002-07:00

Saturday was my 28th birthday!! I had a really nice day just hanging out with Joe and the boys. Friday, Joe and I went out to a great restaurant and a movie which was really fun. Joe was supposed to be out of town all weekend, but he surprised me by not going and staying here with us, so I guess that was the best present of all, not being all by myself on my birthday and Valentines Day!

Thanks Joe, I love you!

Carter really wanted to go and get me a present. He decided he wanted to get me a new ring, so Joe took he and Aidan shopping and they got me rings that are super cute!

Thanks boys, you are so sweet!

So, I have to say that over all my birthday/Valentines Day was great! I got to spend a nice night out with my sweetheart, and a fun day with my family and got some great presents!

Thanks to my guys for a wonderful birthday!

I love you so much!

"But she is not on my list!"

2009-02-03T16:47:00.002-07:00

This past weekend I went out of town and went to my mom's house on a spur of the moment decision to help her with John's reception, but I had to find a babysitter for Friday because I was going to be gone then and Joe has to work. So I got my friend, Stacie, to watch them. Stacie really hasn't baby sat for us before, but her sister has for the past couple of years and she has been around when her sister's watched them.

When Joe was leaving in the morning Carter was not happy that Stacie was going to be watching him and told Joe that, "she was not on his list of favorite babysitters!"

Joe asked who is on your list? And this was what he said,

1. Tiffany

2. Ashley

3. Daddy (Yeah, Dad is considered a babysitter :) )

Then he asked Joe, "actually, who was the girl that took us to the fire station?"

Joe said, "Taylor."

Carter said, "actually she is number 3."

I guess Dad got bumped to #4!

Joe called and told me this and I thought it was hilarious!!! Carter cracks me up!

By the way, Stacie was great and she has now been added to his list!

Thanks Stacie!

Ahhh, a robe...

2009-01-21T17:33:00.003-07:00

When little people wear big people things it just cracks me up!

Carter has been bugging me for a robe for a while now (I am not really sure why) and the other day I was at Target and found these for 75% off, and thought what the heck! One is Iron Man and the other is Batman, so I thought it was perfect and, man, was I right. They love them and want to be in them all the time.

Can someone get me my brandy and smoking pipe?

Aidan loves to sport any random hat he finds.

This kid always makes me laugh.

Adventures in Potty Training

2009-01-21T16:56:00.003-07:00

Last week I thought it was time to start potty training Aidan. And that is about as far as we got. I have this idea of a few months with out diapers and how nice that would be, but I think that is wishful thinking.

I took Aidan to the store to pick out what ever underwear he wanted and I would buy it. He found some that he wanted and was excited to wear them. We got home and got him into them. That night he even went pee on the toilet! We cheered and jumped for joy; although Aidan just looked at us like we were crazy. The next day I tried again. He had a couple accidents and then I forced him to go on the potty. He told me he would, but Carter and I could not watch him and we could not cheer! This kid is such a nut. So, we left the room and he went and then told me he was done and I went in and said "yeah Aid.." and then he said, "no cheering!" After two days he said he was done and wants to be a baby again and wear diapers. So, that is about as far as we got with the whole potty training thing. He keeps saying that he will go tomorrow.

Carter was potty trained in a day and all was good. And, I was hoping Aidan would be as easy, but I should have known better!!!

Any tips anyone??? Let me know!

Sorry, pictures are PG-13

What a dork!

But, 4 is my favorite number!

2009-01-15T19:13:00.002-07:00

Right before Thanksgiving we thought it was time to tell the boys that I was pregnant and that they were going to have a baby brother or sister.  We told them and explained a few things and all was well, but the conversation quickly turned into something I was not prepared for.  Carter was pissed off!  He told me that he did not want 5 people in the family and I asked him why and he said that 4 was his favorite number, not five!  He told me that he did not want my belly to get big, which I replied with, neither do I!  He said that he did not want another brother!  He kept asking why we made this decision, and that he wanted to make these decisions.  I told him that some decisions are made by mom and dad and not kids, but he still did not like that answer.  He was crying and really upset at Joe and I.  I told him that he needed to go to bed and that we would discuss this later.  I went back into his room a few minutes later and found him sitting on the edge of the bed with his arms folded, pouting!  I asked him if he was alright and he said, "I only want 4 people!"  I shut the door, half laughing and half sad.  Aidan, on the other hand was all happy for a baby.  He said that he will hold it. 

Carter is all good now!  He has never mentioned being upset about the whole thing.  He is now excited especially because it is a baby sister and not a baby brother.  He told me yesterday that, "he makes babies happy sometimes."  Which I thought was funny and true to his self centered style.

Really, how can you argue with wanting 4, not 5???

Baby #3!!!

2009-01-09T18:53:00.004-07:00

Yes, I am pregnant! I know that many of you already know and I would have posted this sooner, but I have not had the Internet. So, I am due the first of June. And we just found out on December 29th that we are having a GIRL! We are all very excited, especially Carter because he said that he did not want another brother. I am 19 weeks along and feeling good. So anyone that wants to send presents in any shade of pink is welcome:)! It is so fun to look at girls clothes, it's nuts!!

Baby girl is waving Hi to you all, or Joe likes to think she is flashing "West Side!" How cute is she already? O.K., she is probably not that cute right now, I am sure she looks like a mutant still, but one can imagine how cute she will be.

Look, no penis! I am so used to penises in my house.:) Yeah for a vagina!!!

No Internet, what ever will I do??

2009-01-09T18:48:00.002-07:00

O.K. I have not had the Internet at my house since before Thanksgiving. I know what everyone is thinking. How did you go that long without the internet? And, I am really not sure?! Today we finally had someone fix it and now I am connected with the outside world again! I think Carter was the happiest because now he can play games on the computer again (what a little nerd!).

Christmas Morning

2009-01-09T15:09:00.003-07:00

Christmas morning Carter woke up at the early hour of 8 am. Yeah, I know that is not super early, but in our house that is early! We had to wake Aidan up other wise he would have slept tell noon. Carter was beyond excited and was ripping through his presents. Aidan was bugging Carter because he was taking a long time to get through his gifts. All and all it was a great holiday!

Christmas Eve

2009-01-09T14:57:00.003-07:00

Christmas Eve was so nice and quite. It was the first time that we have done Christmas by our self and on our own, and I have to say I really enjoyed it. It was really relaxing. The boys got to open one present which was new p.j.'s. That is a Brown tradition. They were so excited to go to bed and wait for Santa to bring them presents. We even sprinkled "Reindeer Food" on the front lawn, because that makes Santa come right away, so the kids have to go to sleep right away! It worked like a charm! Through out the month of December Aidan kept asking, "What is taking Santa so long?" He finally came that night and they were so excited.

Here are the boys in their new p.j.'s

Here is the food for Santa, the reindeer, and Santa mouse. (Santa Mouse is a Esquibel/ Hatch tradition).

Johnny Got Married!!!

2009-01-09T14:12:00.003-07:00

On December 6th Johnny got married!!! Yeah!!! It was a great day and a beautiful wedding, but I have no pictures of them or the wedding. How pathetic is that. Although I do have pictures of myself, my cute sister and my cute boys.

Here is Paige and I at the Timpanogos Temple after John's wedding.

Carter and Aidan were busting a move at the reception and it was so funny. As soon as the music started they started and didn't stop until it was time to go.

Carter break dancing, or at least he thinks he is. But I have to admit that we are a very "WHITE" family, so rhythm is not our strongest talent.

Aidan break dancing. What ever Carter does, so does Aidan.

Carter is an Orange Stripe!

2009-01-09T14:01:00.002-07:00

On December 5th Carter had his Belt Promotion and is now an orange stripe. He was so excited he could not stop moving and dancing around! He loves karate and loves performing even more. It was really cute to see him so proud of himself.

Here he is at the end on the right performing some of his dangerous moves!

Sitting with the "Little Ninjas" after performing.

Thanksgiving at Sundance

2009-01-09T13:56:00.002-07:00

For Thanksgiving we went up to Sundance and stayed at a great house with the Brown's. We had a great time with great food!! We played our annual Family Jeopardy game which someone always ends up unhappy with the outcome of the game, and it is always very funny to me!

Just an opinion from a tough critic

2008-11-22T09:33:00.005-07:00

Yes, yes, yes, I went to the opening of Twilight with some friends! And, yes, I am one of those loser women who was there! The whole night was hilarious! It started off with my friend Natalie almost getting in a fight with a 50 year old woman. That started things off pretty funny! Then Natalie's sister, Amy, asked this guy and girl that were there to together if they were dating. (And we felt bad for any guy that had to be there, but anyways) The guy said "yes", and Amy told the girl, "I hope you know that he is expecting some later"! The couple just laughed, because it was so true! Amy then sneaks in to the theater and saves us seats, which was great because we ended up with some great seats! I want to take Amy everywhere with me from now on! We finally get in after waiting outside, in the cold, for about an hour. The movie starts... and it was sooooo BAD! We laughed through most of it! There were a few good parts and I liked Bella and Edward, but Jasper, really what can I say, he was so weird! Every time he came on screen it made me laugh! Anyways, although the movie was not that good, the night was so worth it! So, no offense to all the Twilight crazies! Go and enjoy your fantasy!

signed,

still a devoted fan of the books.

The funny things he says...

2008-11-18T10:53:00.003-07:00

Aidan is at one of my favorite ages right now, 2 1/2, because he is always saying the funniest things! So, I thought it was time that I started writing them down.

No matter what I ask him, like it's time to eat, it's time to change your diaper, it's time to get dressed, or it's time to go to bed, he always says, "Not yet, K?"

At night time we say our prayers and I try to help him by telling him things to say, and no matter what I tell him even if he has not said it, he will always say, "I already said that." And he will say it in a whisper and then I will tell him no you haven't and then we'll start arguing in the middle of the prayer, it turns into a vicious circle, but it is so cute.

He went up to one of the guys Joe works with, Kent, and said, "I Kung Fu Panda and I punch you in the nuts!" Kent was busting up!

If we laugh at something he says, he will tell us, "That not funny."

When he does something crazy, which is all the time, he says, "That is awesome!"

Primary prayer

2008-11-18T10:43:00.002-07:00

Carter loves to participate in just about everything, especially at school and at church. Last Sunday he had to give the prayer in primary. I always get a bit nervous because I am never sure what will come out of his mouth. Well, on a previous occasion he was called upon to say one of the ten commandments and his answer was, "to put your weapons away." Everyone just started laughing, and is was funny! So on this occasion you can see why I would be a little hesitant to have him speak in a group setting. His prayer started off OK, but them he said he was thankful, for nursery, my mom and dads class, and for "seeing one of his buddies from soccer." I think I will need to do a little prep the next time.

proud to be an american!

2008-11-05T17:05:00.002-07:00

Yesterday I voted!
I know it sounds silly, but it makes me very proud when I go and vote. I was watching the TV all night long and I found the whole thing to be very inspiring. No matter what you political beliefs are I thought it was cool to witness history. I also thought Barack Obama's speech was incredible, and I even got a little chocked up. Also, Prop 8 passed! Way to go to all who put so much time and effort into protecting marriage!

Slacker!

2008-11-04T16:02:00.002-07:00

I know I have been a slacker when it comes to new postings!
So, scroll down, and down, and down and you will see the past month.
Man, there was alot!

"annajones"

2008-11-04T15:54:00.003-07:00

There is this picture of President Hinckley in John's room and he is wearing a hat. It is a really great picture! Aidan kept pointing at the picture and saying "annajones", and my mom just was not sure what he was saying so she asked him to tell me what he was calling the picture, and he said, "annajones". I started laughing , and my mom was still not sure what he said. I told her that he thinks that picture is of Indiana Jones. We all just started laughing so hard. It's really cute because Aidan thinks anyone with a hat on is Indiana Jones. O.K., it may be a little sad to see how much pop culture there is in our house!

Candy or Crack?

2008-11-04T15:48:00.003-07:00

Once we got back the kids went through their stash and traded and ate a bunch. Aidan was up tell 1 am bouncing off the walls and talking a mile a minute! All evening he would just walk up to anyone and hold up a piece of candy and say "open?". I thought his head was going to pop off his body and explode! He was just wired, and he was cracking my mom and I up! Look at him, he has the crazy eyes!