Mr. and Mrs. Smith

You can take the girl out of the country, but....

2011-12-01T19:45:00.000-07:00

....you can't take the country out of the girl.

My parents' have pretty much the coolest place to visit...well, besides the beach or Disneyland... so we always have fun going back home to the farm.

Grandma Marie Bramwell- 89 years old!

Double Rainbow!

Sunset over the Snake River

The only reason he is wearing a helmet is because he had to for his scouting belt loop. We had to fudge a little bit- it's his bike helmet.

Billy has learned a thing or two from me :)

Brooklyn Birthday part I

2011-12-01T19:16:00.000-07:00

Brooklyn got to celebrate her 5th birthday 3 times. Lucky girl!

Birthday number 1 was at my parent's house.

I think we could have let these candles burn a long time, but it might have dripped on the cake. Grandma always has cool things like that.

with her "gangsta" cousins

2011-12-01T18:24:00.000-07:00

On our way to eastern Idaho we stopped in Twin Falls to see the falls since the water was running so high. It was an impressive sight.

We had a picnic in the park and let the kids run around. Here you can see Billy trying to get Brooklyn to eat her PB&J sandwich. After having a few tests done, we found out she had outgrown her nut allergy and is actually supposed to eat nuts to help her body keep her tolerance to it. However, that is easier said than done, as she can smell a peanut a mile away and does NOT like them. :)

Father's Day 2011

2011-12-01T18:13:00.000-07:00

Happy Father's Day!

My lucky kids have a great dad!

Cherry Festival

2011-12-01T12:09:00.000-07:00

Every year we go to the Emmett Cherry Festival. This year it was pouring down rain, so we skipped the carnival and figured we'd watch the parade from the comfort of our car. Billy's brother and sister and their families braved the rain and joined us. We stopped at RoeAnn's (our favorite local burger place there) and by the time we got our food the rain had stopped! Of course, the candy didn't fare too well in the rainy gutters, but we had a great time.

Aunt Tess and cousin Graham

Darn those loud fire trucks!

Thank you craigslist...

2011-12-01T11:11:00.000-07:00

The kids had been wanting to try golfing since they know their daddy loves it so much. Enter craigslist.... and two sets later, we are at the driving range. We won't mention that one of the "sets" had half leftie clubs. Oh well.

Mini-Marathon

2011-11-30T18:52:00.000-07:00

Brayden's school does a "mini-marathon" each year. During recess, some of the kids choose to run. For each lap they do, they earn a punch on their cards. Brayden ran 27.2 miles!!!! He earned a cool medal and certificate. We were so proud of him.

I forgot how long his hair was! He decided last spring that he wanted to grow it out until school let out.

2nd Grade Production

2011-11-30T14:07:00.000-07:00

Other than saying how awesome Brayden's 2nd grade program was, I'll just let these pictures speak for themselves.

He's in the 2nd row in the middle.

June 2011

33? Say what?

2011-11-30T09:25:00.000-07:00

It feels really weird posting about my birthday in the winter..but I.will.get.caught.up!

So, I turned 33.

Spent the day with my kids.

Got to wear a crown.

Perfect day.

Brooklyn's Preschool Graduation May 2011

2011-11-29T08:31:00.000-07:00

Brooklyn loved Mrs. B's preschool. Mrs. Broadhead was wonderful. She has been a friend of mine for many years, so I was so excited when she told me she was going to start an in-home preschool. Brooklyn had some friends from church when she started, but quickly made friends with all the rest of the kids. She is a very loving and happy girl. She was so excited to come home and tell me about her day, unlike her brother when he was her age. She learned a lot and was so ready for kindergarten.

Pinewood derby

2011-11-28T23:44:00.000-07:00

With scouts comes the delightful pinewood derby. I was really excited for it. I remember going to my brother's when I was little and being so jealous that I didn't get to make a car. This time around, I was more than happy to let Billy take the reins and help Brayden. Brayden gave it an "interesting" paint job. It was a little thick :) They had a lot of fun despite the fact that the pre-cut axle slot things were less than strait. I think they came in 3rd place (or something close to that).

Brayden's request for it to be a lightning bolt.

They ended up having to add a ton of weights to it!

Spring Soccer

2011-11-16T21:56:00.000-07:00

Last spring, we decided to try out a different soccer league that is really close to our house. Besides a bumpy start with our team not having a coach.... it was a good season. Brayden did great and really made a lot of progress. He is getting more aggresive on the field. He was really excited when tax season was over and he got to have his dad as the assistant coach.

With Billy coaching, sometimes I have to get creative to keep the kids entertained. This game, we took lots of silly pictures. The kids really enjoyed being behind the camera as well as in front!

We are so proud of you Brayden for working hard and being such a good kid on and off the field!

McCall

2011-11-16T21:07:00.000-07:00

Almost every spring we go up to McCall with Billy's parents to their time share. It is so nice of them to invite us (or do we invite ourselves?) This time the weather seemed a bit warmer than normal. We even enjoyed a nice few sunny hours playing in the sand by the lake. Billy and the kids dug a huge hole. They would fill it up with water, break down one side, and try to get the water to funnel down their trenches until it made it down to the lake. It took a few tries, but finally they got it. We enjoy the relaxing down time we have whenever we go.

Even though this picture is a little blurry, it is one of my all time favorites.

Backyard fun

2011-11-16T20:17:00.000-07:00

With the warmer weather came bare feet in the grass,

playing with cousins...

in the sandbox,

and playing with neighbors in the backyard!

Spring 2011

All dressed up...

2011-11-16T18:54:00.000-07:00

All dressed up and actually somewhere to go!

I borrowed my sister's dress (thanks Ang) and got super cute new shoes to go to the Boise State fundraiser auction. Billy's work sponsored (or whatever you call it) a table, so we got to go with some co-workers and friends. We enjoyed a delicious dinner and enjoyed watching people spend a LOT of money in support of our Broncos. We almost won the vacation to Hawaii- well, maybe if we had bid on anything. ha ha. Billy's boss did win the auction for a puppy that was there, so that made for an interesting night. Go Broncos!

Easter 2011

2011-11-16T17:19:00.000-07:00

Easter 2011

Apparently I don't wash my kids' faces. Good thing they still look cute.

End of tax season party!

2011-11-08T23:38:00.000-07:00

For the end of tax season last April we took the kids to Wahooz for a night of family fun. We did it all....

Mini-golf

Landon pretty much just carried his club around and threw the ball...

Brayden enjoyed all the elements of the course...

and Brooklyn just had a ball chasing after her ball...

and all the kids enjoyed having their dad around!

Brooklyn REALLY wanted to ride the boats...

happy girls...

enjoying the track and later enjoying dinner...

and a few more rides!

Happy Little Moments

2011-11-08T13:41:00.000-07:00

Every now and then, between the running around, the busy-ness of life, checking of the to-do list.... between the bickering, the screaming, the pull our your hair moments... there is a little quiet. And you might happen upon something like this...

and you run for the camera

to capture the sweet, little moments like these

that remind you how great life is.

(Brayden and Landon- April 2012)

Snow Mobiling in Stanley

2011-11-06T00:00:00.000-06:00

Last March, (ha yes, I know March was a long long time ago) my parents invited Brayden and I to meet them in Stanley to ride the snow machines. We stayed in this dinkey little hotel. It wasn't much to look at, but it had an awesome natural hotspring pool in an enclosed barn a ways down by the creek. We reserved a time slot, rode the machines down and enjoyed a good soak. The water was so hot! I don't think Brayden even got all the way in. The barn had huge doors that opened towards the creek and mountains. While we were soaking we got to watch the stars and see a fox hunting along the creek.

The next morning, we all went riding down to the lake. It was so beautiful. I think we only saw one other group of people, and they were on snow shoes!

Brayden and my mom and dad

My heart about flew out of my chest when I looked back and saw this! My mom and Brayden were fine and only tipped over because they were going so slow and trying to make a tight turn in really deep, fluffy snow. Brayden thought it was really cool that they "crashed."

We went racing up this big hill a few times...

Brayden about dumped my dad off the back when he let him drive. Dad's machine has a lot of kick to it. I think this picture is of me and my dad heading up the hill.

Me in all my puffy orange coat glory....

After we got back, my dad and I took a really long ride- from Stanley to Lowman. It was amazing! Since it was the middle of the week, there were no tracks, just fresh snow. I've seen a lot of beautiful country, but this ride had to be one of my favorites. I was really proud that I made it the whole way (not that I had a lot of choice in the middle of nowhere) since I have hardly any experience on a snow mobile. Even though you're basically just sitting there, it still wears you out :)

The weather was perfect. It started to snow a little on us, so we decided to stop for lunch when we found a good spot. Lucky for us, right after we came upon a "warming" hut. So, we took a little break and had lunch.

Because it was such a long ride, my mom and Brayden picked us up with the truck. The ride back was much warmer and more comfortable in the truck, but it wasn't nearly as beautiful.

Taking a little break that night.

The next day we had to say good-bye. On the way home, I decided to drive back through Garden Valley, although I somehow missed my turn and ended up going over the pass to Idaho City. Of course it was snowing- a ton- and I was just in Billy's car. I don't think I've ever been so nervous, especially because I had my son with me. There were hardly any cars on the road. At one point in time, my car was barely making it up the hill. With white knuckles and a prayer we made it home safely.

Even more fun

2011-07-10T22:13:00.000-06:00

Because Billy doesn't have a lot of time during his busy season, we make sure to make those moments count when he is able to. We grabbed the earplugs and dropped off Landon at my sister's. (Poor guy, I'm just realizing that he missed out on the really fun things we did, but this went really late and was really loud) Off to the Monster truck show we went!

March 2011

Brayden really did have fun, he was just annoyed that I was making him pose for pictures when he just wanted to watch the show.

Brooklyn was just "glowing" with excitement. I really miss my nice camera *sigh*

The earplugs we bought didn't really stay in their little ears very well, but I think they helped. Brooklyn loved the dog car. Brayden loved the transformer car that shot out fire.

Squeezing in a little fun....

2011-07-10T21:50:00.000-06:00

Despite Billy being super busy during tax season- and I mean SUPER BUSY- he managed to squeeze in some quality time with the kids. I swapped Landon for my niece Maren so Landon could get a nap in and so I could enjoy the afternoon. We met up with Billy at his work and walked across the plaza to the Qwest Arena to watch the Globetrotters. I remember seeing them when I was a little kid, so I was really excited to take the kids. We got to use Billy's work suite seats, which I love. We have our own bathroom, a pull down bed- which the kids think is super cool, a tv. etc. It makes everything much easier with the kids.

Check out the shorts! Brooklyn loved the Globetrotter mascot guy. She thought he was hilarious!

Yay! Dad time!

The girls! They had even more fun because they were together.

Little Dancer

2011-07-05T21:59:00.000-06:00

The end of January, Brooklyn joined the Centennial high dance team for their dance clinic. She had been taking dance a few months before, but her dance teacher quit a few weeks after starting her dance classes- agh (but that would be a whole other post that I won't get into) :) She loved dancing and was very excited for the performance. She is much more coordinated than her momma. They performed to Toy Story's "You've got a friend in me" and she loved listening to it and practicing.

Lining up this many 4 year olds proved a little difficult, but thanks to the arm spread they figured it out.

There she is in the middle back.

Brooklyn with her very patient dance instructors.

and a really bad video of the very end... but isn't she adorable?!

2011-07-05T21:22:00.000-06:00

Along with getting baptized when he turned 8, Brayden also got to join our church's cub scout troop. He was very excited. He got right into the swing of things and earned his bobcat badge for his first pack meeting. He's got awesome leaders and a really great bunch of kids in his troop.

Saying the scout oath.

Brayden with his fellow badge earners...

Getting my first pin!

So proud of you Brayden!!!!!!

Christmas in July- almost

2011-07-05T21:04:00.000-06:00

So, this is major blog catching up! This winter we had a few good snow days. Brooklyn took advantage of it by practicing writing her name. I love how she makes her letter "R"s.

She then got the neighbor boy to write his name too. I really wanted to go out there and put a big heart around their names, but I don't think they would have appreciated it.

2011-04-26T21:42:00.000-06:00

After turning eight, Brayden was old enough to choose to be baptized as a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He and his dad practiced how to hold on and also plug his nose at the same time.

We are so proud of him, and appreciate him setting such a good example to his brother and sister.

He had a lot of support. His amazing primary teacher, Sis. Burlingame came to the baptism....

as did some of his friends. Here he is (blurry faced) with his buddy Jonathan who was not only baptized the same day, but was born the same day as Brayden too.

Also there to show support was all the family. Here we are unsuccessfully trying to get a cousin shot.

Congratulations Brayden!

Eight is Great

2011-04-18T23:03:00.000-06:00

Brayden got to celebrate his birthday at the happiest place on earth...Chuck E. Cheese. Yes, he really wanted a Chuck E. Cheese birthday party. Not the kind where you show up and mom orders pizza and brings your presents in, but an actual Chuck E. Cheese Birthday Party. You know, the one where they set the table for you and you get an awesome blow up crown and Chuck E. comes out an entertains you. I blame all the children that previously have had birthday parties there when we've shown up.

Brayden did design his birthday cake. Apparently he wasn't impressed with the giant cupcake one I made last time that tipped over. I like doing it this way much better- so much easier.

He got to invite a few friends. We missed a few that were sick or out of town. Bummer. I guess that's what happens when you have a December birthday. The boys that did come were so much fun and full of all that boy humor- loud and silly.

We opened presents....

... Danced with Chuck E. The boys couldn't decide if they were too cool for that part or not, but they were good sports.

Brooklyn, however, was mesmerized....

And the real reason Brayden wanted a genuine Chuck E. Cheese birthday party?

The Ticket Blaster!

Later we got to celebrate at Grandma and Grandpa Smith's house. One of the good things about having a Christmas time birthday is that usually the relatives are in town!

Notice how he's still wearing his chuck e cheese crown? ha ha

Landon also enjoyed the birthday party!

and even though the cake was half eaten, we still sang to him and let him blow out the candles.

Happy Birthday Sweetheart!

Eight Things About Brayden

1. He loves his "screen" time- whether on the DS, Ipod, TV, video games, computer.

2. He still likes to cuddle with his mom (shhh don't tell)

3. He loves to complain, but then will tell you, "no offense"

4. He has an awesome imagination and once he told me about his "secret world" that he likes to play when he is by himself. It was very detailed and had a fascinating storyline. He told me that it was a "one time only" explanation and that I was really lucky he was even telling me about it. I'd write about it, but I've been sworn to secrecy.

5. He is very compassionate (when he wants to be) and notices how others are feeling.

6. He is HILARIOUS! He has such a great sense of humor and can always make me laugh.

7. He is a math wizard. He can do math problems in his head faster than I can. I love how he breaks apart the numbers and puts them together. Future CPA like his daddy? Maybe

8. He is an all-around awesome kid! I'm just so proud of the person he is and have loved watching him grow up into such a sweet kid.

2011-03-20T19:21:00.000-06:00

Christmas morning FINALLY arrived and the look on Brayden's face was my best Christmas present! Normally, the kids open stockings first, but Brayden couldn't wait to see if Santa had read the directions he had left for him.

Stocking time

Brooklyn is our little artist, and she was thrilled with the BIG present Santa got her. She uses it almost daily. It folds up into a nice compact art set. The stickers were promptly put to use decorating her dresser and doors- nice, right?

A few weeks before Christmas, we were at Best Buy and they had the game, Just Dance, on the demo thing. She had so much fun with it, that she got it for Christmas. Little did we know that mom and dad would play it more than her. Her favorite is the "Monster Mash" dance.

Surprise, Surprise... Billy's gifts were nearly all sports related. BSU stuff, mini hoop (he wanted to hang it up in our bedroom, but I had to put my foot down on that one. Really? He thought it would be perfect since the ceilings are vaulted. Luckily it is going in his work office...or the garage. I really don't remember. I'm just glad its not part of my home decor.

Billy spoiled me with a craft cutter (which I didn't even know I wanted until I started using it). I also got a few other fun things, including 4 reading lights. He is such a bargain shopper online, so he scored those on the cheap- it totally made me laugh.

Then we had to play/unpackage the gifts. Still can't figure out why toymakers make everything so difficult to get out of the packaging! Have you noticed anything missing yet?

Yes, we still have our third child, and no we didn't forget about him! He was still asleep, and knowing that we had a big day ahead, we let him sleep. I think he enjoyed it because he got to rip right though the presents and didn't have to wait his turn. He loved his Thomas train- it even has one of his favorite things: "badwee" (batteries)

I made him and my niece and nephew Boise State themed ABC books.

Then there was Lego building until mid afternoon. Billy counted up how many pieces they put together with all of the sets, but I can only remember that it was ALOT!

Then, we headed over to Billy's parent's house and were welcomed by this little munchkin! How cute it he!?

Christmas Eve

2011-03-18T19:41:00.000-06:00

I don't know how many times I've tried to upload these pictures, but every time blogger would get mad at me. So, in honor of St. Patrick's Day, here are our Christmas Eve Pictures.

Brooklyn was my superstar wrapper. She was actually really good, as long as she had lots of tape for all of the little pieces she used.

That evening, we went to Billy's parent's house for Christmas eve dinner and festivities. Grandma read a Christmas story to the kids- with interactive stickers.

Baby Chloe and her pretty momma enjoying the fun...

Big Announcements were made...

Brayden was shared his new BSU snuggie with Ellie...

The kids reenacted the Christmas Story...

We opened cousin presents... (my darling niece Ellie)

Our pretty Christmas tree after Santa made his visit...

And thanks to Brayden's sign, Santa knew exactly where to put his special present.

"Santa, put DSi here"

Poor Kid

2011-02-11T18:39:00.001-07:00

The perils of having a big sister that likes to play dress up....

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2011-01-19T18:12:00.000-07:00

Brooklyn's preschool class performed a Christmas progam for a local nursing home. She practiced her songs nearly everyday. She was adorable, if not a little nervous. The patients there were so cute and clapped after every song. It is mid January now, and she still remembers the songs and will sing them in the car.

My crazy silly kids

2011-01-17T22:08:00.000-07:00

All Brayden wanted for Christmas is his two front teeth... He got one.

Brooklyn=Fabulous (as always)

And Landon as the fancy train conductor....

I love my kids!

2011-01-07T10:43:00.001-07:00

Brooklyn reading to her "baby" brother. I love moments like these.

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Landon

2011-01-06T21:19:00.000-07:00

So, as I've said before, Landon is not much of a talker, but he is starting to get the hang of it. Today he put two words together, which is a pretty big step. He wanted up on the chair in our living room. I was in the kitchen and he came and pulled my hand until I followed him. He pointed to the chair and said "UP ME, UP ME!" over and over. When I told him he could do it, he grabbed his little chair and put it next to the big one and climbed right up. He was quite proud of himself, and I was proud too.
Right now, he is crying in his crib because his new favorite person, his dad, wasn't here to put him to bed. Whenever Billy is home for a few days (like Christmas break) he gets very attached. He's in for a shocker since tax season is about to start. Well, I'm going to go see if a hug from mom will suffice. I'm doubting it.

Happy Birthday Landon

2010-12-22T21:59:00.000-07:00

My baby turned 2! I guess he's not really a baby anymore, but we'll just pretend he still is. He celebrated his big day by going to church and doing puzzles in nursery. Then he took a nap in prepartion for his party that night!

He and his cousin Ellie are only a few days apart, so they celebrated together. And yes, Ellie is only 5 days younger, even though she looks 5 months younger. If you listen to her talk though, you would think she was five years old! Landon's vocabulary mostly consists of bah-be (baby), mommy, doggie, and a few others. He's the strong silent type!

He loves balls, cars, books, and pushing the doll stroller around. He loves following his big sister around, and copying his big brother.

He loves to make car noises.

He loves his daddy and always runs and shouts when he comes home.

He loves candles and blowing them out. He learned on his birthday that candles are hot and his momma is a little slow. He loves the app on my phone that has a little candle he can blow out.

And he really, really loves his mom!

and cake!

and a little look back to his newborn days

Aside from playing with toys, he also loves to scare people. He says "boo!" in a cute little voice and will keep saying it until he gets the reaction he wants. He loves to read his "doggie" book before naps. He is still a good sleeper and sleeps with his gorilla and blankie and sucks on his two fingers.

He likes most food and thinks he is a big boy, especially when he cleans up (a trait that probably won't last much longer) his toys, dirty diapers and shoes.

He does not like his brother and sister getting in his space and lets them know loudly and quickly. He does not like when mom doesn't understand what he is saying, when dogs come up to him, or
when his mom won't let him type on the computer.

Landon is our little sweetheart. He is full of love and loves sharing hugs and kisses. I especially treasure our little bedtime routine that we have. He will snuggle up on my shoulder while I sing him "goodnight sweetheart." He doesn't mind that I only know the chorus. Sometimes he'll sit up and give me a kiss and then lay back down on my shoulder. Othertimes he'll pat my back while I pat his. This little routine we have is sometimes the only one on one time that I have with him, and it makes it difficult to actually lay him down to sleep. I could cuddle that kid forever if my arms could handle it.

Happy Birthday Sweetheart!

2010-12-22T15:26:00.000-07:00

Thanksgiving at the Bramwell's: 2010

Ingredients:

kid table

big kid table

babies

drinks (mormon style)

movie

mash potatoe mountain

silliness

family

not pictured:

card games

more food

white elephant exchange

nap

Snowy Adventures

2010-12-21T21:37:00.000-07:00

As you can tell on the old school date stamp on these pictures, we were able to celebrate the first real snow the end of November. (I guess I need to check my camera's settings) We bundled up the kids and watched them from inside. Yeah, I'm nice like that. Brooklyn enjoyed stomping around on phase one of the play structure we are building.

Landon was so excited. He kept saying "Snow," which if you know how little he speaks, was really impressive.

When his big brother and sister went to play in the front yard, he just stood there for probably 5 minutes until I made Billy go get him. Yeah, I'm nice like that. I'm not sure what he was doing, if he was enjoying the snow, too bundled up to move, or just chillin'.

Of course, we had to finish off with hot cocoa!

Vegas Baby!

2010-11-30T17:13:00.000-07:00

Billy had to attend a conference in Vegas for a few days. Of course, I didn't want a good room to go to waste while he was in classes, so I decided to come along. It was awesome. I had 8 uninterrupted hours- yes, I kept track. As a mom, I don't get a lot of time to do what I want to do. Which is okay. I love doing stuff with my kids. However, every once in a while, it is nice to just have quiet. Or listen to the soothing drone of the television on a channel other than cartoons. The first full day we were there, I read, napped, watched tv, ate lunch in my room, played on my laptop, read blogs, scrapbooked... all those things I never get to do often enough. The second day was my shopping day. At first I got frustrated. Everything I liked, I couldn't really afford or I didn't really like that much. But, I did score an awesome ring made out of a coke glass. Yes, I love me some Coke Zero. I also got some cute shoes and some little things for the kids.

The second best part was getting to hang out with Billy- uninterrupted (except for the darn conference). We watched football in the hotel. Well, he did, and I caught up on facebook and my google reader. We also met up with a coworker one night for dinner, walked the strip, hung out with an old mission/college buddy and his cute family, shopped, ate, and went to Cirque Du Soleil's KA. KA was really amazing. If you ever have the chance, go see it.

Of course, thank you to my family/friends for helping out with my kids so I could go!

And now you know, what happens in Vegas when Megan goes,

doesn't really stay in Vegas.

and I am also realizing I don't have any picture of the two of us. They are all on my phone! Oh, well!

Book of Mormon Stories

2010-10-14T08:29:00.001-06:00

It seems like most nights when we sit down for scripture study as a family, someone can't find their scriptures or they can't agree on who's is who's. So for family home evening, I bought 5 of the paperback Book of Mormons, and we personalized them with our own paper. The kids know these ones are to stay on the shelf. Study time has gone much more smoothly - except for the keeping ones hands to oneself while others are reading (Brooklyn). Maybe I should wrap her up too! jk. We try to keep it short, one verse (or 2 if they want), since they are still little. I also like it because it leaves us time to talk about the meanings of the verses. I've been so impressed with Brayden and his interpretations and questions. And while we don't have a perfect track record reading each night, I have seen the blessings when we do.

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St. Luke's Women's Fitness Celebration 2010

2010-10-07T21:15:00.000-06:00

Another year, another race. I love doing the St. Luke's 5k every year. Even though I am really out of shape, I signed up for the timed run. I wouldn't have been able to do it witout my sister and friend running beside me, and even kind of pushing me up the hill :) Hopefully I'll get my behind in gear and be able to get a good time next year.

Lexie, Charise, Teresa, Me

Landon's First Haircut

2010-10-07T21:08:00.000-06:00

When my hairstylist sister Desiree' came into town, I decided it was probably time to cut Landon's hair for the first time. Even though he is almost 2, I just couldn't bring myself to cut those little curls he had behind his ears. Sometimes he just had "old man hair" hanging over his ears, but sometimes they would curl up- it was just too cute! He also had a spot right on top that would curl. At first he was pretty upset with the whole haircutting idea, but with the bribe of a bottle and me holding onto him and Grandma making silly faces, he decided it wasn't so bad.
Now that it is cut, he looks so grown up and so much more little boy than baby. So sad to have him growing out of the baby stage, but I love how much he is learning and growing and doing.

Brooklyn's Preschool

2010-10-05T17:02:00.000-06:00

Brooklyn started preschool the beginning of September. She is taking from my dear amazing friend, Michelle. Someday, I will be amazing like her, but until then, I will send my daughter to her and pray that some of that "amazing" rubs off on us. Brooklyn was especially excited because two of her best friends are in her class. She got to pick out a "back to school" outfit. We both loved it because it had pink and sparkleys on it.

Normally, I would have fancied up her hair for the first day of school, but I was running late (as usual). I also would have normally taken about a trillion pictures to capture this sweet girl's cuteness, but I dropped and broke my nice camera, and my little camera was M.I.A., so we had to settle for my phone's camera, which isn't that great.

Isn't she a total doll? I love this kid.

And here she is with her wonderful teacher! She is having a great time. Surprisingly, Michelle (Mrs. B) said that she is really quiet in class. But, she is having a really fun time and is enjoying all the cute crafts they have been doing. She knows all her letters but two, and loves to write her name. After her first day of school, she got in the car and told me "nocturnal" and then proceeded to tell me what it means. After that, she kept saying, "what was that word I was supposed to tell you?"

Rock Stars

2010-10-04T18:37:00.001-06:00

A couple weeks ago, one of my BFF and her hubby came through Boise on their way back home. Marcie and Lael are always so much fun, and it is just like old times when we see them. We got a sitter for the kids and then headed downtown for the Boise Music Festival. Unfortunately we were too late for the Backstreet Boys, but we did get to see Bret Michaels. I didn't think I knew who he was, but I actually recognized some of the songs. Lael managed to worm us nearly up to the front, and Marcie and I were able to pose like true groupies.

and to stop the rumors before they start- I totally look preggers in this picture, but I'm not- I promise...must be the stripes....

BOISE! STATE!

2010-10-04T16:41:00.000-06:00

We didn't get season tickets this year to Boise State's Football games, so we had to get our fix of blue turf when we had the chance. We took the kids down for their scrimmage. I hadn't been for a few years, and I couldn't believe how crowded it was. I remember when we sat down on the lower level and there were tons of seats available. This year, we had to climb, climb, climb to the top corner just to find a spot. It was a lot of fun- although I never know when I should cheer during a scrimmage. Is it good when YOUR offense scores on YOUR defense? Landon loved clapping and cheering along with the other fans. Then a huge windstorm came through Boise and we barely made it home alive. Well, it wasn't quite that bad, but it was really windy!

Once Bitten, Twice Shy

2010-10-01T10:55:00.000-06:00

I know this is horrible, but these pictures make me laugh. hard. Brayden got a mosquito bite on his forehead and it got really swollen. It spread across his forhead and over his eye so much that he really didn't even look like himself. Everytime I would look at him, he would just look so pathetic, but in a really funny sort of way. Yes, I know, I'm kind of mean that way, but I googled it and read that it was normal since there isn't a lot of tissue there, and some bites can have more of a reaction. Poor kid.

Ice Cold Lemonade

2010-09-30T18:21:00.000-06:00

A few weeks ago, Brayden had a smart idea on how to earn a little extra cash -one that did not include doing extra chores for his mother. Lemonade. Luckily for him, the neighbor kids all pitched in and all the parents kindly bought some lemonade. They had a lot of fun flagging down cars, riding scooters around, and of course drinking most of the lemonade. Of course, when you have to split your earnings a few ways, it might just be easier to do chores for your mom!

Dancing Princess

2010-09-30T17:46:00.000-06:00

Brooklyn has started dancing classes. She is so cute in her little leotard and I made her a ballet skirt out of leftover fabric from her Aunt Lexie's dance costume. She loves to come home and show me all the new tricks that she has learned. I hope she takes after her Aunt Lexie and not me when it comes to dancing skills! Can't wait to attend her little recital in a few months. And yeah, I'm maybe a little more excited about it than she is.

Floating Shelves by Handy Billy

2010-09-30T17:20:00.004-06:00

Our $1 Floating Shelves!

Billy found a plan online on building floating shelves so Brayden would have a place to display all his Lego creations and his Star Wars ships. We started by going to the ReStore (a place that sells donated building supplies -new and used- and picked up a set of folding closet doors for $1. Painted them black with paint we already had.

Billy made some braces and drilled them into the wall. His were even better than the plan's. We cut the doors down and they slid right onto the brackets- well almost, we may have had to do a little sanding on the brace.... It would just be wrong if our projects worked out perfectly the first time ha ha!

Now we just need to fill them with all those cool "boy" things Brayden has waiting to show off!

Skarlish the beetle bug

2010-08-11T17:07:00.001-06:00

We can't have a dog- she's allergic.
We can't have a cat- she's allergic. But, by golly, we can have a bug in a jar.
And baby brother might just be giving the bug kisses through the glass.

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School Daze

2010-08-11T14:42:00.001-06:00

Say What?? Can't believe we are back into the school year...yes, one of the joys of year-round school is a nice early August start. I have mixed feelings about this as I had a long bucket list of things I wanted to do this summer (or should I call it a lunch box list- things I want to do before I "kick the lunch box") either way, we did a few of them- mainly camping more this summer. But, we missed the zoo, the museum, pirate park, etc... And I love having my kids around me, not having a schedule, and being able to do what we want, when we want. However, listening to the kids argue this morning helped ease the transition of sending Brayden off to school- ha!

So, without further ado. Introducing my 2nd grader!
Stats:
Likes- math, soccer, basketball, legos and tv
Dislikes- homework, chores, "wierdo kids" -yes, I think I need to work with him on that last one
Personal Record- staying happy while his mom made him smile for 29 photos

Handsome and Huggable

2010-08-11T13:53:00.000-06:00

Billy was home sick from work for a few days last week. Landon didn't mind the germs and turned Daddy into a jungle gym....

Climb on Daddy's back

Give him a hug

Start the ascent..

higher and higher

and land...

Camping Camping Camping

2010-08-11T13:34:00.000-06:00

We went with some friends up to Pine Flats campground. (It’s a great place if you are looking for a campground near Boise. It even had a hot springs that you could hike to.) We had taken the kids previously on a one night camping trip with just our little family, but going with friends made it even more fun. As an added bonus, I only had to cook ONCE! The kids had a blast running around, throwing and losing Frisbees. Brayden especially loved catching itty-bitty frogs in a water bottle. Unfortunately for me, 5 survived the ride home, so I had to create a makeshift frog aquarium. And I hate to admit how many bugs I've tried catching just to feed the stinky things. Billy was disappointed that he didn't catch any fish in a stocked lake, but he continued trying even on our latest campout with my parents. Brooklyn loved running around with the kids. They all played together so nicely, it was "almost" like having a babysitter. Landon, well, the picture almost tells the story of how much fun he had in the dirt- almost… He also managed to nap a little, which was nice since he didn’t sleep well in the tent at night. It was so hot; I put the portacrib out under a tree. After about an hour of reminding him to go to sleep every time he popped his head up, he finally fell asleep. Meanwhile, I read a good book and enjoyed the nature all around.

Brooklyn and Daddy

My little Racoon

4th of July (only one month behind!)

2010-08-05T16:12:00.000-06:00

Yeah, its a little late, but here goes our fourth of July pictures. We had a fun day with family and ended it with fireworks with our wonderful neighbors, letting off tons of fireworks in the cul-de-sac. It lasted longer than I thought it would. Brooklyn didn't want to miss out on the fun by going inside to bed, so she fell soundly asleep in her daddy's arms. Brayden was in 7th heaven running around with all the boys, jumping over smoke bombs and (with supervision) lighting fireworks. Landon enjoyed it all from the comfort of his crib in his room, fast asleep.

Brooklyn

2010-07-30T17:45:00.001-06:00

Somebody has been having to much fun this summer. She only lasted about 5 minutes before she was out. Now if only her little brother would go to sleep.

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Brooklyn is Four!!

2010-07-05T13:21:00.001-06:00

My sweet little Brooklyn celebrated her birthday a few weeks ago. She decided she wanted a fairytale party with her friends. I attempted to make a princess cake, but it ended up looking more like the dress on Sleeping Beauty before the fairies use their magic...

We had lots of fun with different "fairytale" settings (Ariel's Ocean, Belle's Ballroom, Tianna's kitchen, etc...) We decorated the entryway to look like Cinderella's dressing table for some cute photo ops. And of course I had to dress up as the fairy godmother)

Then we had some fun with the family...

Brooklyn's Favorites

Toy: Cars and Ponies

Color: Pink

Food: Sandwiches

Movie: My Barbie one that has horses in it

Future Occupation: Unicorn

Favorite thing to do with dad: Tackle

w/ mom: Play

w/ Brayden: pick up the garbage

w/ Landon: play ball

Favorite place to go: Uncle Goon (Lagoon)

Things she wants to do: go to the jungle and have a birthday party.

We love you Sis!

Love this kid!

2010-06-13T23:14:00.000-06:00

This evening we went for a little walk through the neighborhood. About half way through, Landon decided he had had enough of sitting in the stroller while Brooklyn peddled along on her bike and Brayden was scooting along on his scooter. So, Billy got our little guy out to let him walk. Unfortunately, like most 18 months old do, he dwaddled along really slowly, stopping at each crack or stick on the sidewalk. Billy and I both walked ahead of him urging him to come along. Brayden, however, stayed behind him, walking slowly.

I told Brayden to go around him so Landon would maybe hurry up and try to keep up with each other. Brayden told me that he needed to stay behind Landon because he had a bad feeling about leaving him. I told Brayden that it was okay, that I was watching him.

Brayden then told me, "No, Mom, I have a bad feeling, and I would rather it happen to me than to Landon."

He then proceeded to tell me that he loved Landon the most.

Wow, this kid that has been driving me crazy with all his complaining about the smallest things, this kid that never seems to hear me until I've said the same thing at least 10 times over, this kid- he amazes me with his love.

McCall Tradition

2010-06-13T23:07:00.000-06:00

We were able to spend the weekend with Billy's parents in McCall. It was kind of a tradition for Billy's family to go up when he was a kid and his grandparent's had the condo for the week. We are glad to continue that tradition now that his parents are grandma and grandpa. We wouldn't want them to get too used to all that peace and quiet in the mountains!

We took the kids and cousin Livi for a short walk to the lake. Of course we had to climb on top of the "BIG ROCK"

and I love this picture of Billy. Too bad the lighting is off- thank goodness for photoshop!

Aren't we cute?

And lest you think it was all fun and excitement....

Spring? Break

2010-04-13T21:23:00.000-06:00

Spring???? Break

My Dad took me, Brayden and my sister snowmachining up to Mesa Falls. It was beautiful!!! It was so snowy- and a very WET snow- when we started, but it turned into a very nice day. Brayden loved it especially, although he said I didn't drive crazy enough. I think with my child on behind me, that is a good thing.

group shot! Can you see the snow built up at the bottom of the falls? It was gorgeous!!!

Dad and I doing making the exact same grin for the camera!

Grandpa and Brayden

Landon 16 months old

2010-04-13T18:39:00.001-06:00

On a rare occasion, although becoming much more frequent lately, Landon does actually cry. Usually it is because he wants something. And when he wants something, he really lets us know it. In this instance, he wants me.

Tactic 2: Give Mom the puppy dog look

Tactic 2 is met with success... and now we have a happy baby...(do you notice how our eye color is almost the exact same in this picture? He does look a little like me, don't you think?

Of course, being the youngest does have its drawbacks- older siblings always jumping in on Momma time...

and one more thing...what is it with my kids and cold cereal?????

May need to find a new place for that...

Daddy Time!

2010-04-13T18:13:00.000-06:00

We're so glad when Daddy comes home...especially when we haven't seen him all week. Sundays are a special day for the kids during tax season, when they pack in a week's worth of wrestling, playing, and joking with their Daddy!

Dads have a way of playing with their kids that moms just don't, no matter how hard we might try. For instance, when I see the cool cutouts above some of our doorways, I think, "Oh, that would be a cute place to hang my eyeball decoration for halloween...." Billy on the other hand, sees it as a "pass through" for the kids. And once Brooklyn sees Brayden do something, she has to give it a try as well, no matter how frightening it might be....If only I could stick her up here for timeout...she might take me a bit more seriously....

Another funny Braydenism

2010-03-26T21:00:00.001-06:00

Tonight as I asked Brayden to say the family prayer, he announced in a deep voice, "please take your seats and turn off you cell phones."

I love that kid!

Stair Climber

2010-03-06T13:49:00.000-07:00

Here is my little stair climber! He thinks he is pretty hot stuff, climbing up the stairs all by himself and then looking down on the world. Luckily for me, his big sis is more than happy to follow him up there and make sure he doesn't come tumbling down! (well, except for one little tumble down a few steps)

"stache"

2010-02-21T15:00:00.000-07:00

Brooklyn: do I have a milkstache?
Brayden: do I have a syrupstache?

Funny Brayden

2010-02-15T09:00:00.000-07:00

"Time flies when you're in an airplane!" -Brayden age 7

What we do when...

2010-02-05T22:56:00.000-07:00

This is what we do when Daddy is working late...

....show off our muscles

....jump on the couch

....and "pillow dive"

oops Daddy- we kind of forgot the "no jumping on the furniture rule!"

Up Do

2010-02-04T20:47:00.000-07:00

"Seriously Mom? A Faux Hawk?"

Swamich

2010-02-04T17:43:00.000-07:00

Sometimes I wonder why I do what I do. Really, why do I take the time of putting together a sandwich when she just takes it apart to eat it? I think I could save myself a lot of time! I love the way she eats her "SWAMICH!"

The other day when I made her lunch, I put some grapes (that I had just washed) on the plate next to her crackers. A few minutes later, I heard her whining, "Mom, I don't want any grape soup!"

Apparently, it is not cool if the water from your grapes gets on any of your cracker crumbs!

My Sunshine!

2010-02-04T17:27:00.001-07:00

Isn't this such an angel face? I love this kid. You know the song, "you are my sunshine?" Well, this guy is my sunshine for sure, especially on dreary days like today. I especially love the little string of drool down his chin!

Being Silly! Whenever he sees me on the floor he dashes (well, as much as you can dash when you're not walking yet) over to me and climbs up on my lap.

Yeah, you can take the girl out of the country, but you can't take the country out of the girl and she will put her baby in Wranglers to prove it. Really, who doesn't love a Wrangler butt?

Sometimes we end up with things that we don't need, are just in the way, look really messy and I can't wait to throw them away. This balloon from ToysRUs was one of those things. However, once it lost enough air that I could throw it away without my oldest throwing a fit, my youngest found it and played and played and played with it. So, lucky for the balloon, he got to stick around for another week before finding his final resting place in the trash.

Landon's Birthday celebration

2010-01-26T21:48:00.005-07:00

Poor child number 3, I realize I never posted your birthday pictures...so here goes...

As you can see you had lots of help opening your presents...

It took you a while, but you slowly started getting the hang of opening them up...

You were very nice and shared your toys with your siblings and cousins...

One, two, three BLOW! or just look at the candle and try to grab it while your brother and sister blow it out for you....

One thing you do know how to do is EAT!!!

More Christmas

2010-01-24T21:02:00.006-07:00

I knew I had some other Christmas pictures, but apparently I saved them in the wrong folder. So without further adieu...Christmas: take 2

Okay, how ridiculous is this? ...and at the same time ridiculously cute. I love how his ears are pushed forward by the hat so he has little elf ears...okay, maybe he has the tiny Bramwell ears to boot, but still!

Interesting- This picture was taken while the big dinner preparations were being made. Yes, I am in the background with my back in the picture, but I think I was taking Brayden's temperature, as you'll see below, he was sick on Christmas Eve. I think we ended up making the guys clean up dinner. Poor little guy...at least he felt better on Christmas. Grandma and her boys...and if you like to look in the backgrounds of pictures like I do- that is just sparkling cider that Mindy won in our annual card tournament. Dad reading the Christmas story... ...with baby Dallin listening intently.
I know this is a horrible picture and I shouldn't post it, but isn't it just hilarious how my mom and Brooklyn have the exact same expression?!!!
And just one more ridiculously cute picture.....

Twister

2010-01-24T18:12:00.001-07:00

Perhaps the only time Brooklyn lets Brayden tell her what to do!

Dear Brayden...

2010-01-24T13:03:00.005-07:00

Brayden, I wanted to write down a few things about you that make you so special. I know it is sappy, but I am your mom so I get to do stuff like that.

*You are my cuddler. Even though you are getting older, you still love to sit close to me, and even sometimes play with my hair like you did when you were a baby. You'll even crawl into bed with me in the mornings and cuddle; I love it- except when it is too early!

*You are very inquisitive. Lately you have been asking me lots of science questions. You are asking about space and what makes a universe and what is at the end of the universe. You are also interested in germs and how they make you sick. We had to go online to find pictures of them, and then you had even more questions.

*You are very emotional. I think you get it from me. But, just as you can get mad and totally lose it- you can also show lots of empathy to others. You get excited about even little things, which makes life really fun.

*You are a great brother. As the oldest, your siblings are always watching you. I appreciate your willingness to play with your sister (I won't mention which of her toys you guys were playing with today :) and your watchful eye over your baby brother.

*You are so smart! I am amazed with your ablility to spell. You are my spelling super star! You are also starting to become quite the reader as well.

*You are very sensitive to things of a spiritual nature. You recognize God's hand in your life, and have great faith in asking Him for help. I am so impressed with your knowledge of the scriptures. I love listening to you read "your" verse of the

scriptures each night, even though you always ask for the shortest one.

*I love listening to you play. As I type, you are walking and playing around the living room as a Transformer, making the sounds of the transformer you made up named "Gold Strike."

*I love you bud!

6 months

One year old andThree years old

Holy Cow Batman! Brayden is SEVEN!

2010-01-22T22:40:00.004-07:00

Happy Birthday Brayden!!! My baby turning seven!!!!!!! My good friend said that the days are long and the years are short. I'm really feeling that way lately as I watch how big and grown-up he is- especially when I compare him to Landon, who is almost exactly six years younger.

When his birthday approached he started making some seriously big plans. Trying to rein him in a bit, I told him he could have a party at our house with lots of friends or a party at chuck e cheese with the family and two friends. Much to my relief, he chose Chuck E.

One of his friends was sick and unable to go, but he and Kellen had a blast. Brooklyn loved everything of course. Landon was happy to hang out with Grandma and Grandpa. I think the Grandparents were a little overwhelmed by the fun of it all though!

And we were happy to be there for baby Graham's first trip of what surely will be many trips to Chuck E's.

Christmas with the Bramwells

2010-01-22T20:46:00.007-07:00

Although last year Billy said we were going to spend Christmas at home from now on, I was able to convince him to go to Lewisville for Christmas one last time. Not that he doesn't want to go after or before, he just hates packing all the presents to and fro! Anyway, I haven't seen my sister Desi since she moved to AZ, so I was able to talk him into it. We had tons of fun, as we always do, playing games, eating and just being together. Here are a few highlights!

The whole fam on the ginormous LoveSacs. The kids loved stacking them up against the wall, so they were only 2 feet from the ceiling and then jumping off them onto a smaller bag. It was hilarious and only a tad dangerous!

We had the kids line up at the bottom of the stairs just like we used to when we were kids. It seems like just yesterday when Brayden was Landon's age and crawling up the stairs!

Brooklyn and Maren had lots of fun showing each other their presents- especially when they matched!

Landon was semi into opening his gifts, but he did love playing with them.

Billy playing with the Barbie and Barbie car that he bought for himself- oops I mean for "Brooklyn."

My Grandma Bramwell came down and watched everyone open presents just like she did when we were little. She is one fun spunky lady, although it is times like this one when I really miss my grandpa. They were always together like two peas in a pod- Grandma doing all the talking and Grandpa being Grandpa.

Landon was particularly enthralled with his Great-grandma and gave her lots of big smiles- maybe he understood her when she said how handsome he is!

Brayden got lots of Legos and Star wars stuff this year. He wanted a nintendo ds as well as everything else this year, but that didn't happen. He loved all his toys, but said he didn't get a "big" gift like everyone else. He was not impressed when I told him that was true, but he got lots of smaller gifts. Next year I'll buy him something cheap and big so we won't complain. Any ideas?

He was very sweet and picked out very thoughtful gifts for everyone. He made some really nice gifts at school to- including a calendar for the year with all the holidays and school info on it (that he wrote in himself) and a beautiful framed picture of a poinsettia that he did with chalk. He was so excited to give it to us.

Thanks Mom and Dad for hosting all the craziness and letting us invade the house. Thanks for gathering up everything that we left there. Thanks for the fun gifts. Thanks for all the yummy food. We love you!

Christmas Nativity

2010-01-22T20:08:00.005-07:00

We took the kids to a live nativity that even had a camel! The kids were very impressed (mostly by the wagon ride). Hopefully it helped the kids understand the Christmas story a little bit better. We even made the kids' great-grandma come with us! They even had hot chocolate when we finished. I was so impressed that so many people would volunteer their time and talents to put this on for the community. It may just become a Christmas tradition for our family to go to this. You can check it out next year in Eagle.

Merry Christmas

2009-12-25T11:36:00.002-07:00

Merry Christmas everyone!!! If you didn't get a card in the mail, I apologize. I did my cards in shifts and couldn't find who I had sent to or not- so hopefully no one got duplicates. And if you didn't get one, here is a digital version!

This year was great for our family. A few highlights

-We survived another tax season with a newborn. Thankfully Landon was a super sweet and easy baby.

-We sold our house that we had lived in for 8 years.

-We got to live with Billy's parents for about 2 months in between houses. They were so gracious with all five of us invading their space. The kids especially loved it. I loved taking turns making dinner!

-We bought a new house in the next neighborhood over from our old one and got to stay in the same ward and school.

-Billy was called as a nursery leader after bragging about his sweet calling as Assistant Stake Athletic Director. The Lord must have felt I needed to work on my organization skills as I am the RS Secretary at church.

-Brayden started first grade and decided it's not fair that he has to go all day while his siblings are home with me. He is doing great and recently was given the citizenship award at a special assembly.

-Brooklyn is attending a preschool co-op with our friends. She loves it and is very social. She loves playing with her animals and pretending to be a dog.

-Billy coached Brayden's soccer and b-ball teams. Brayden thought it was the coolest thing ever to have his dad as coach.

-Landon has gotten nearly all of his teeth, LOVES to eat, and to follow his siblings by army crawling all over.

-I have had fun getting the house put together, planning little projects and "someday" projects that we will eventually get to...someday. I love staying home with the kids each day, although I feel like I never get anything done. Life is good!

Merry Christmas!

Charity

2009-12-22T15:23:00.004-07:00

Last night for family home evening, we went to the store to get gifts for the kids' cousins. As we wandered down the isles, the "I want this" and "Mom, buy me that" made me feel a bit hopeless about my children really getting the true meaning of Christmas. We've been trying to teach them about service and giving to others, having them put coins in the red Salvation Army buckets, writing down our service for others, putting little yellow yarn pieces (straw) in a manger as we do secret service for our family members. However, all that "wanting" made me feel that the message just wasn't getting across. Perhaps all my questions of "what do you want for Christmas?" didn't help matters.

However, as we were getting ready to leave Brayden said, "Dad, there's ten bucks." Billy thinking he was talking about a toy costing ten dollars agreed. "No, Dad, There is ten bucks on the ground."

We picked it up and asked everyone around us if they had dropped it. Several people smiled, said no, and told Brayden it must be his lucky day. While Billy went to pay for our items, we waited there and asked around a little more. Then I told Brayden we needed to check customer service to see if anyone had lost it, and if not he could keep it.

Well, when we got to customer service, they lady told us they would keep it and see if anyone claimed it. Of course, I could just see some employee buying their dinner with it, so I asked, "Can you take our number, and if no one claims it, give us a call?"

"Well," she said, "if no one claims it, we donate it to charity. It is up to you if you want to turn it in or not."

I decided I would leave it up to Brayden, so I asked him what he wanted to do. His reply stopped me in my tracks. "Charity is the most important," and with that, he handed the ten dollars to the lady.

I was so proud of him. As we were walking out of the store, I was filling Billy in on what had happened. A woman came up behind us and asked Brayden if he was the little boy that had turned in the ten dollars. He said yes, then she proceeded to tell us that she had lost it and she appreciated him turning it in. Then, to make the ending even more perfect, she handed him two dollars. He was glowing with the knowledge he had done the right thing, and he now had two dollars to top it off!

Our lesson that night is one that I will always remember, "Charity is the most important!" Thank you Brayden for your very fine example. I love you!

Great Grandkids

2009-12-15T13:12:00.002-07:00

Here is Billy's grandma with all of her "Smith" great-grandkids. It was a bit of a feat getting them to all stay half-way still long enough to get a picture.
Grammie loves her kiddos and is always willing to babysit them and play with them. She spoils them rotten!

Momma Mia

2009-12-15T12:22:00.003-07:00

We-the kids and I- went home for my Mom's birthday! We hadn't been back there for quite a while, and it was so fun- shopping, eating, talking, eating etc....

Five things I love about my mom

1. She has a very similar sense of humor as me (hence the wrapping paper hat I made her wear), so she actually laughs at what I say!

2. She works hard- seriously, I don't know of anyone that has a stronger work ethic than she does. If only I had inherited that, I might get stuff done.

3. She is so cute! She has always looked a lot younger than she is, and she is just so tiny and pretty.

4. She loves her kids- even though we drove her up the wall and made her crazy- she still let us know how much she loved us, and still does.

5. I can talk to her- if I go a week without talking to my mom, I go crazy. She is always there for me. I love you Mom!

Happy 1st Birthday Landon!

2009-12-05T11:41:00.005-07:00

One year ago today, our sweet little boy came into our family. His big brother and big sister could hardly wait to meet him. He is such a good, sweet boy- so quick to smile! It is hard to put into words how much I love this little guy. He loves to cuddle, loves to eat, loves to watch, loves to play, loves to stick his fingers in my mouth, loves to stand up and hang onto furniture, loves to crawl on his tummy, love to follow his big sister and brother around, loves to put things in his mouth, loves to go 0utside, loves his toys, loves to laugh, loves his Daddy and Mommy. Landon, we love YOU!

I think he had more hair then than he does now!

Happy Birthday Landon!

3 months old with aunt Lexi

6 months old with Mom and Dad at Lagoon.

9 months old with Brayden and Brooklyn

Oh, Landon (almost 12 months), what a mean mom you have!! Yes, I couldn't resist sticking those flowers onto the few hairs on his head- just for a minute. At least you are GQ-ing it with your collar!

SMART kid

2009-12-05T11:17:00.005-07:00

Yesterday Brooklyn, Landon and I were out shopping. When we got back to our car, I saw one of those cool little smart cars had parked next to us.

Me: Brooklyn, do you see that itty bitty car.

B: Yeah, Mom, I already saw it.

(as we are driving away)

B:Mom, I bet it has an itty bitty Mommy for it, and an itty bitty Daddy and an itty bitty kid!

This morning:

Me: Brooklyn who do you want to marry? (I ask her this because she has been talking about her friend Jackson nonstop)

Brooklyn: Brayden, because I love him.

(oh how sweet, if only she acted like she loved him too)

Last night:

Me: Brooklyn, will you put these markers away?

B: I can't mom, my arms are to sleepy.

SEASONS!

2009-11-22T23:30:00.001-07:00

One of the things I love about Idaho is that we experience all four seasons. This fall has been especially beautiful. We have had some really freezing days, but also some mild ones. A few Sundays ago we decided to take a drive up to the mountains. We didn't have a plan, or even know where we were going, but we ended up on a little road above Garden Valley. It was beautiful! After we parked the car, the kids and Billy hiked up this huge rock. Landon and I stayed down below where it was safe. Then Brooklyn, Landon and I headed down the road, while Billy and Brayden climbed up the big rock. The picture above is from their viewpoint. Those little dots are us! The sun was actually setting, so by the time we got back to the car it was getting dusk. We came home with a bag of pinecones and "beautiful, special rocks." We might have fit a few more Sunday drives into our weekends from now on....

Better late than never!

2009-11-01T22:02:00.005-07:00

Happy Halloween!

Although this picture totally didn't turn out, I still had to post it because it really shows, however blurrily, how much these two cousins love each other. Brooklyn the Ladybug and Maren aka Princess Aurora had lots and lots of fun trick or treating together. They were hand in hand most of the time walking down the sidewalk. Brooklyn also got to have her friend Becca the beautiful butterfly trick or treat with her too! They were all so darling.

And here is the Black Ninja and his super sidekick Batman. They ran from house to house!

My darling little ladybug and all her loot- in her "ghosty"

Brooklyn with her preschool buddies!

I'm not sure who loves halloween more- oh, wait, it's me!

PUMPKINS

2009-11-01T21:34:00.002-07:00

Usually we get together with our friends and all carve pumpkins together, but this year Brayden got a fever so we had to cancel. By Friday night he still was a little hot, so we stayed home from the church party and carved pumpkins instead. My little pumpkin...I tried to get him to fit inside, but his little diaper bum just wouldn't fit!

Brooklyn told me what she wanted on her pumpkin- Triangle eyes, a circle nose and a sad face. I'm not sure how she was able to mimic her pumpkin so well, but it was pretty funny.

Billy just loves to pose for pictures! Actually, he was trying to look "mad" like his pumpkin!

Brayden also designed his pumpkin. It was a little tricky trying to cut out all the little things he drew, but it did end up looking pretty spooky!

Leaves!

2009-10-29T17:52:00.001-06:00

"October gave a party;
The leaves by hundreds came-
The Chestnuts, Oaks, and Maples,
And leaves of every name.
The Sunshine spread a carpet,
And everything was grand,
Miss Weather led the dancing,
Professor Wind the band."
- George Cooper, October's Party

Women's Fitness Celebration 2009

2009-10-29T17:02:00.003-06:00

Yes, I'm playing catch up.
What would September be without the Women's Fitness Celebration? It was so much fun as always. My mom even came up to walk it with me. I love having her around. It was fun seeing a lot of the other gals on our "team." Tess, my cute prego sister in law even walked it 8+ months along! With the move and unpacking and everything I decided not to run it. Last year, I was preggers so I walked too. Next year, no excuses-I'll be running it again. Who's with me?

Book Worm

2009-10-29T16:17:00.003-06:00

Does this girl love her books or what?!!!

No wonder she is always so sleepy in the mornings.

Landon 10 months old!!!

2009-10-04T15:18:00.003-06:00

Landon has to be one of the sweetest little things on this earth. He is a bundle of silliness, contentment, and joy. At ten months old, he is army crawling all over the place and finding stray cheerios under the table. He loves to eat- pretty much anything he can fit in his mouth. The other day he gnawed on the end of a raw zucchini. He loves to stand up holding onto furniture or someone. He always gets a big grin, like he thinks he is pretty hot stuff. He thinks his big brother and sister are hilarious, and always laughs at them the most. He also got his top 3 teeth in at the same time and developed a silly look- a great big scowl. Now the scowl is usually followed by a big smile, unless he is tired, and then it is a cry.

Brooklyn's Preschool

2009-10-04T14:51:00.003-06:00

Three years old and as good as gold! Better late than never, right? Brookly was soooo excited to get to go to preschool. This year, we are doing a mommy co-op, which was perfect because she is still so young. Although Brayden would have struggled with going to a different house each week, Brooklyn is a more "go with the flow" kind of kid. She loves that some of her best friends are in it. They are a sweet group of kids. She let me get her all dolled up for her first day.

His First Day First Grade!

2009-08-13T21:29:00.003-06:00

Brayden started school on Wednesday- yeah I know it is super early, but his school is on a year round track. He was so excited, especially since two of his best friends are in his class. His teacher is awesome and when I asked him how his first day was, he said "perfecto!!!" I can't believe how big my baby is! I'm excited for all this next school year will bring!

My handsome six year old!

One last hug!

Half Baby, Half Pit Bull

2009-08-06T21:18:00.003-06:00

Landon has taken to growling with every meal! 8 months old. Oh, and if you listen, you might think he got it from me- I've got a pretty wicked growl myself :)

Sleep Over!

2009-08-06T21:05:00.002-06:00

After we had moved all the way out of our house, we went back for one last night in our home. It was bitter sweet, with a lot of mixed emotions. We are excited for what is ahead of us, but really sad to leave our first home. It was the place that we brought all our babies home to, our first yard, and the first place we could really say was "ours." We packed up some blankets, snacks, and the computer to watch a movie on. We put Landon to bed and popped some popcorn. It was fun to have one last night at the house.

Landon
Brayden "sleeping" downstairs- posing for the picture

Brooklyn showing off her karate movesMovie Time!!!

New House

2009-08-04T21:14:00.003-06:00

A little update- So, we had the inspection done on our new house and things looked great. We will close sometime the end of August! Wahoo! We are excited to have more room to play, and even happier it is so close to all of our great friends and that we will be able to stay in the same ward and school. It is in a nice cul de sac. Brayden can't wait to ride his bike around it! The backyard is nice and big and we'll even be sharing part of the fence with some great friends of ours.

We closed on our old house about 1 1/2 weeks ago, and moved in with Billy's parents while we wait to close on our next house. It has been a lot of fun. They are such great people and very easy to live with. The kids have been having a blast hanging out with Grandma and Grandpa and going out to the garden with Uncle Ryan and Aunt Tess.

We've had fun playing with Grandma's toys and the kids have started swimming lessons- I'll post pics later. That's all for now folks!

Landon Landon I haven't forgotten

2009-07-21T17:03:00.006-06:00

I know it may seem so my dear little one, but I haven't forgotten you. So you don't feel neglected darling, here are some pictures of you...

Watching your big bro playing soccer 5 1/2 mo.

Landon with Grandma Smith at Eagle Island State Park- check out his blankie hat!

almost 7 months You love your big boy food! 6 1/2 months

Riding on the train at Lagoon 6 months

One handsome guy! 6 1/2 months

She's THREE!

2009-07-15T16:55:00.007-06:00

My sweet and sassy little girl is THREE! I can't believe it! She got a darling short haircut from my friend Teresa. Then that evening, we had a get-together with family and friends at Eagle Island State Park. It was a lot of fun- we even had boat rides thanks to Uncle Ryan.paddling around with uncle Ryanher very own laptop computer from Grandmaall wrapped up

Then she had a little party with some of her friends the next day. We had a LUAU theme, and it was so cute and fun.Eating fruit shikabobs! however it is spelled ;0

and unwrapping gifts

and blowing out the candles

She had a marvelous time with all her friends. I love summer birthdays! We

played pin the fish on the hook, swam in the pool and lots of other fun things.

10 things I love about Brooklyn

1. She has the cutest little rosebud mouth

2. She is very aware of others feelings and wants everyone to "be happy"

3. She has a silly sense of humor- especially anything that involves saying the word poop.

4. She allergic to nuts (I don't love that) but is soooo good about not eating any, even when we're eating chocolate that was "processed in a facility with nuts" she doesn't complain when she can't have any.

5. She really has a sweet and happy disposition. She almost always has a smile on her face. On Sunday, Billy had to wake her up. He said that even before she opened her eyes, she got a big grin on her face.

6. She is sassy. Yes, unfortunately (and fortunately) she has a lot of spunk and has come into her own wanting things done her way. This can be both a good thing and a bad one. In one sense, I love to see her independence. However it sometimes turns into disobedience :)Although after a quick timeout, she is usually sorry and ready to listen.

7. She loves to sing and dance. I often find her singing the "Sleeping Beauty" song and dancing around- "I know you, I walked with you once upon a dream..." and I have to dance with her when she tells me to, because I am the "prince".

8. She loves to turn her head back and forth when she is undressed and feel her hair on her back. It is so cute because I remember doing that when I was a kid.

9. She loves her brothers. She has to hold her own but loves to play rough with her big brother and is so sweet and gentle with her little brother.

10. She is so beautiful. I don't know if it is her dark eyes with her blond hair, and that darling grin, but she is such a doll.

Brooklyn- we love you sis! Thank you for bringing such so much sunshine into our home!

Lagoon Part 2

2009-07-11T10:41:00.008-06:00

Yikes! This is from so long ago!!!! I uploaded the pictures, but am just barely getting around to posting these. If you see the guy in the black shirt next to a little blonde head, that is Billy and Brooklyn. I thought Brooklyn was so brave to go on the pirate ship. She really liked it and went on it a couple times. You can tell from the clouds in the sky it got pretty stormy that day. We ended up getting caught in a HUGE downpour. I was with Brooklyn over in the kiddy boats when it started. I ran and got her out of the boat and we ran to the bathrooms and hid out in there for about 20 minutes. Billy had Landon and Brayden and made a run for it with the stroller back to the camping site. My sister Desi was sweet and came and picked Brooklyn and I up at the entrance so I wouldn't have to carry her all the way back to the camp site. Here is Desi and Brayden on the swings. Desi is moving with her hubby Pete to Arizona. I don't know what I'll do with out her when we come home to visit. The kids ADORE her.

Oops- sorry Billy- didn't realize this was such an awesome picture of you. This is the one ride Landon went on- the little train that takes you past the really stinky animals. He had fun on it though and was such a little trooper the whole time- even though he was stuck in the stroller for most of it. He even did great sleeping in the tent.

So, in 12 more years watch out because these two will be on the road.
They are some crazy drivers! (Brooklyn and cousin Maren)

This was Brayden's favorite ride. The whole time he was saying "This is totally awesome! This is the best vacation ever! This is totally awesome!"

Brooklyn is really into ponies right now, so she was so excited to go on the merry go round. I couldn't talk Billy into hopping on one though :(

So even though it was on the cooler side, we decided to ride on this one. Somehow, Brooklyn and I ended up right under the water fall. I pulled her under me and shielded her with my body and saved her curly pig tails. THAT is motherly love!

Isn't my mom the cutest thing ever?

And this is kind of a family tradition- but check Brayden out(bottom left corner), he totally had the "look." The end.

Lagoon Part 1

2009-06-25T18:49:00.004-06:00

It seems like everyone we know has headed down to Lagoon these past few weeks! Here is a short review of our trip. We left late Thursday, making sure our house was "show" ready just in case anyone wanted to look at it. We arrived to the hotel in Ogden past midnight. I was afraid our kids would be monsters when we woke them up, but they were so cute and excited. Brayden quickly fell asleep. Landon layed on our bed and smiled while I got things ready and Billy brought in the bags. Brooklyn was so excited. She kept climbing in and out. Finally, we all were in bed, Landon back to sleep, Billy and I drifting off.... when Billy felt breathing on his face. There was Brooklyn, standing right next to our bed with a big grin on her face. It was hilarious. The next morning, Billy went and worked out- and the kids did their own work out program- jumping on the beds. I'm sure Mr. Marriott didn't appreciate it, but hey, they had fun.

We met up with a bunch of my fam at Lagoon. My mom was so excited to have all her grandkids there. She was nice and watched them while we went on the big rides. Landon spent that day at his aunt Sara Smith's house (thanks Sara) and played with cousin Macey. I found out that Brooklyn shares my love of rollercoasters as she tried out her first one ever. It was not even a kiddie ride! She was laughing so hard, I about died. The video is sideways, but it is hilarious.

Frohe Geberstag

2009-06-17T22:26:00.004-06:00

Happy Birthday to Me! I can't believe I'm now REALLY into my 30's! Can time really be flying that fast?? Billy and me and the kids went out to dinner for my b-day.

Then we went home for cake and ice cream- and not just any cake- A "Charise" cake- Billy ordered one from her business, A Frosted Cherry, and it was awesome! Not only was it soooo cute- it was amazing to eat. If you have an event coming up, give her a call!
and of course we were out of candles, so I had to blow out a match- from a matchbook. no less!

My cute sister Angie and my little Landon. She is having a BOY and I'm so excited for her!Me and my super great friend Holly!My niece, Maren, got me this delicious pineapple! Yum, I never buy these fresh, but the kids and I ate it up fast. I think I have a new favorite fruit.Me and my 3 amigos!

And of course, how I really feel when trying to get pictures with all three kids together!
Thanks everyone for making my birthday so great. I appreciated the calls, emails, cards etc! And Billy, it might not have been the "best birthday ever", but you made it a good one!

Can you hear me now?

2009-06-17T22:10:00.002-06:00

I love my goofy goofy silly silly cutie patootie kids!

Soccer Season

2009-06-17T21:33:00.003-06:00

Brayden had another great season of YMCA soccer this spring. He has really gotten so much better, and it has been great to see him surpass the goals that he set for himself. In January, we each set 3 goals for ourselves, and one of his was to get 2 goals (double what he got last year) this season. Well, he did that in one game!!!! He had a great coach and great teammates. After the last game, we had a little picnic party where their coach gave them water gun "trophies." Much better than those kind that collect dust on a shelf. Great job Brayden!!!!

He had a great cheering section for his last game! Thanks Grandma, Ryan and Tess for coming!

Funny Kids

2009-05-30T23:31:00.002-06:00

Talking about what we would do if we had a billion dollars....
Me- If we had a billion dollars we could buy any house we wanted.
Brayden- If I had a billion dollars, I would buy my school and shut it DOWN!

Brooklyn as we pass the bottles of Gatorade in Albertsons-
"Look, soccer juice!"