The Humphrey 5

First Days and "Bes-shoes"

2011-09-20T07:53:00.000-07:00

So, have I postponed the inevitable long enough?? Finally a real blog post.
Today was Ella's first day of school and boy, was she excited!! She has been looking forward to this for oh....ever. She has been wanting to go to school with the boys since she understood where they were going. Finally the day came when I signed her up for school. Not only, to her pure delight, was this school somewhere he goes to learn her "abc's" and numbers, but she is going to a dance preschool. That's right folks, a preschool where she gets to take dance (ballet and tap) on the two days she attends. That put right over the moon. The day we went to sign her up we purchased her ballet and tap shoes. Those ballet shoes have already been broken-in in the month plus since the blessed day we bought them. She wears them to "practice her ballet skills" and to play dress-up. Maybe I shouldn't have been so lax in their non-dance use (she never wore them outside, though. I do have some standards ;) but the girl was so darn excited I couldn't say no. I do have to admit, that we did have a "where is the other ballet shoe??" incident that lasted about a week. To say that Phillip might have to buy another pair of leather ballet shoes that would put him back about seventeen dollars put a fire under him a bit was an understatement. ;) Don't fret too much, though. They were recovered and safely snuggled in her backpack today. When Phillip and I dropped her off today she was wearing the ballet shoes (she has ballet Tues. first thing), her knee socks (l.o.v.e. her splurge knee socks) and biting her nails. Some of the over-exuberance of the last few days had worn off when she saw Mom and Dad walking away and I think it hit her Momma's not going to actually stay during school put a bit of a damper on the prospect of school...but not enough for her to not stay. Whew! Also, what Humphrey kid wouldn't be complete with their fingers in their mouth biting their nails on the first day? None of mine.
Onto the goodies...the pictures...
As for the boys, I couldn't leave them out, could I?? Nope. I will at least document their first day with pictures. It's been nearly a month and things seem to be going well. Greyson was pleased that his best friend from church is in his class and Cooper is digging right into school activities. He was chosen to be a member of the student council (by secret ballot; the students vote on the essay they like best and voi-lah a member of student council is born) and also attending choir. Both of those activities are before school, so he is foregoing his free-time for pretty worthwhile actvities. Bravo, Cooper...and, I guess bravo to all my kids who faced their first-day jitters and are digging right in.
Not sure why my pictures outside are looking so over exposed. Hmmm....sorry.
Now,you might have wondered if I have a major spelling problem when I wrote bes-shoes...and well, I might, but not this time. Over the last few days Ella has been sneezing off and on. There are horrible allergens here and it seems all my kiddos have outdoor allergies. Anyway, a few of the times after she sneezes she had been saying, "well, I guess I still have the bes-shoes". Usually I have been busy doing this or that and just absently say, "uh-huh". the last cou0ple of times I stopped and asked, "you have the bes-shoes??" enunciating very clearly to make sure I was hearing her correctly. She would say yes and be on her merry way. Last night just before her bath she said it again. I again asked if she was indeed saying that she, "still has the bes-shoes". Again she said yes. I sat there for a minute and tried to figure out what in the world she was saying. Finally, it dawned on me what she was saying. She was saying, but not correctly, that she has the Bless You's. She had been calling her sneezes "bless you's". I guess she had been told "bless you!" after she had sneezed and thought that's what they were called, as well as sneezes. I know that she knows what sneezes are because right before I figured it out she said she had the sneezes and bes-shoes. I got a kick out of it. Such a silly girl and a true blessing in my life.
Well, that wraps it up...just in time for me to pick up my youngest from school. Hope you enjoyed. :)

Thank You

2011-09-14T14:19:00.000-07:00

I wanted to post a public "thank you". I was having a particularly difficult day yesterday and in a fit of frustration I wrote a blog post. I raised some questions that were mostly of a gospel nature. I re-thought about posting the post because I recognized that my questions, although valid, were mostly driven out of frustration and if I went to the scriptures and loved ones I could find answers, or at least feel that things would be alright. During the small time the post was up I had some people comment, through one way or another, to the post. They have helped me feel validated, loved and truly answered some of my questions in ways I hadn't even thought about. Over the last 24 hours I can truly say that I know that my Heavenly Father is aware of me and is watching over me. He has sent his love through special angels on earth to help comfort me and direct me. Thank you to those who have felt compelled to share their love or answer my questions. I can only hope that I can return the favor to someone who is struggling and be our Father's messenger.

Sunburns, Greyson, and my Heavenly Father

2011-06-28T09:15:00.000-07:00

First of all for those of you hoping to hear some of my sweet wife's humor and elegant prose you may be disappointed to find out that this is not Stephanie, it is Phillip. I have become a silent partner in the world of blogging. Many of you may not realize but it was me who created and built the original "thehumphrey5" blog. However I do realize that it is Stephanie who has built it into a place where people want to come and hang out.

Much like the prophets of old (not that I am even remotely comparing myself to a prophet) were compelled to write their experiences, I too have felt inclined to post some of my thoughts and experiences the past few days.

Last Saturday, we were fortunate to have been invited to go with some friends to the lake. Thank you Thomas, Tanner, and Sorenson families for such a great time. As can often be the case when you spend the entire day boating, swimming, and tubing many of us returned home with sunburns. Yes, we tried to be responsible parents and each of our kids started with a nice slathering of SPF50 sunblock (except for Steph who is trying to get skin cancer, I mean "Tan"). Needless to say it did not protect us all day and we were too enthralled in fun to remember to reapply. Greyson got the worst of it. By the time we got home he was lobster red and in a lot a pain. We tried everything we could think of to help him feel better including Tylenol and aloe.

Sunday arrived and Greyson could hardly move his arms to get a shirt on so we kept him home from Church. He stayed half naked all day till we had to go back to church for a fireside I was helping with. We got a shirt on him and headed to the church, dropped him off with the babysitter in the primary room and went to the fireside. When we returned an hour later the sitter told us that a blister had popped and that she had put some gauze on. Shortly after another blister popped, then another and another. By the time we got home he had four blisters, three about silver dollar size and a fourth the size of a quarter that had popped and exposed the tender skin underneath. He was in even more pain and there was nothing we could do to help. Everything we did seemed to sting and burn. Only Tylenol seemed to give him any relief. I gave him a priesthood blessing and then he went to bed. Sleep was not easy that night as Steph tried to find a comfortable sleeping spot for him. It was very emotionally hard to see your son in so much pain with nothing you can do to help.

Monday we called the doctor to find out if there was anything we could do to ease his pain and insure that the blisters were correctly treated. Eight hours later it took the doctors office thirty seconds to tell us to treat it with Aloe. Needless to say, I was not very happy with them. Again we were headed for what looked to be a long night. About 11:30 I sent Steph to sleep in Greyson's bed (he was in ours) and I would care for him. He slept till about 12:30 and woke up crying in pain. I found myself ready to cry for him as well. It is very hard to sit next to your child in pain and find yourself helpless to do anything. He again fell asleep, but I did not. I found myself driven to my knees pleading to my Heavenly Father for my son. My heart and mind were opened to a realization that my Heavenly Father understood how I was feeling. He too watched his son suffer pain and agony and there was nothing that he could do. He understood that it was necessary for our salvation to allow our Savior to suffer unimaginable pain so that all his children would be able to return clean and pure to live in his presence. As I cried and pleaded to my Heavenly Father for a small miracle I felt reassured that he too loved Greyson and did not want to see him suffer. I arose from my prayer and noticed Grey sleeping on his shoulder, something he could not do earlier in the evening. We awoke one more time that evening about 3:30 took some more Tylenol, repositioned and fell right to sleep.

I awoke this morning about 8:00 to sound a laughter and playing. I went to the living room to find all three kids making a town for their Build-a-Bears out of boxes. Greyson looked like he was a new boy. Every once in a while you could see that maybe he bumped something that hurt but kept playing with only a wince. Prior to this he would scream and cry in pain at the slightest touch. I know that he was blessed and I am grateful for a Heavenly Father who hears my prayers, loves me, and teaches me. As painful as this sunburn has been for Greyson and emotionally difficult it has been for me and Steph, we only experienced a small portion of what our Savior, Jesus Christ, and our Heavenly Father did. I am grateful to him for the sacrifice of his son, and eternally grateful to my Savior.

To all those that read this whole post, thank you for listening, and I promise that I will have Stephanie post something a little more light hearted and fun next time.

Brownies to Rwanda: Hand Stamped Jewelry Giveaway!!!!!

2011-06-22T09:26:00.000-07:00

I found this super-fun giveaway!! Thought I would share! :)
Good luck!

Brownies to Rwanda: Hand Stamped Jewelry Giveaway!!!!!: "well, all you etc jewelry lovers, we are having another giveaway starting today and ending on saturday, june 25th at midnight pst. ."

Greyson

2011-06-09T17:50:00.000-07:00

So. Today is my little man's seventh birthday. It seems odd that they keep on growing... I know that it shouldn't, and I suppose logically it doesn't. But, then sometimes I catch a glimpse of them, a moment in time, and it surprises me. I remember when I found out I was pregnant with Grey and I was so excited. I remember the first time I felt his tiny little body move inside of me. It was December 24th. Such a great present for an expectant momma. I remember the weeks leading up to his birth and then when he finally came and joined our family. I remember holding him for the first time and looking, inspecting really, all of his little teeny-tiny baby parts and being in awe that this new little person just entered the world. I remember feeling so excited to get to know this sweet little baby and what personality he would have. I remember wanting to know if he was laid back or a boisterous boy, what his favorite color is or what color of eyes he would have. I remember all of this so clearly, like it was yesterday. But it's not, it was seven years ago. Like I said...surprising. I guess the really fun thing about it is, is that I know all those things now. And, that's fantastic.
I know that Greyson loves, loves, loves orange. I mean everything orange. If he can eat, drink, wear, sleep on, hold, own, look at... you name it, he'll choose orange. He has some of the most beautiful eyes I've ever seen. They are the color of his auburn hair. Who knew that people's eyes could match their hair so perfectly when their hair is such a unique color? I know that Greyson is such a boisterous boy, but he also has a calm side when he's really working at something. He loves to organize and arrange things. This can be helpful... and not so much sometimes. But, as a mom I just realize that's one of the things that are uniquely Greyson. He is an excellant reader and student. He doesn't boast or brag about it. You probably wouldn't even know that he was, unless you were told or heard him read. He tries hard and generally excels at what he puts effort into. I love how Greyson is such a sweet, cuddly boy when he wants to. He still lets his mom give him hugs, and really appreciates them, in front of his friends. He is so kind to his little sister, Ella. He still talks to her in a sing-song voice. It isn't baby talk, he just is trying to be extra gentle with her. It makes my heart grow every time I see or hear him be kind to her. I love how Greyson is so passionate. If he gets something in his head, he is an all or nothing guy. I hope that he can strive for the right and be passionate for righteousness. Greyson is a die-hard Oklahoma State fan. His daddy loves it and couldn 't be prouder. He has the funniest sense of humor. He can make our family's frowns turn right side up. He is such a silly boy and loves, loves to have fun.
I am so grateful that Heavenly Father saw fit to send Greyson to me. My world would be so different without him. I love you, my birthday boy.

Pokemon646cooper

2011-05-14T08:14:00.000-07:00

My cute little guy, Cooper, has been begging me to start a blog...you know, let his voice be heard. So, I finally got on the 'ol World Wide Web and helped him create it. If you want to put a smile on his face check it out (it'll only take a few seconds, really) and post a comment. It'll put him over the moon. His blog address is: pokemon646cooper.blogspot.com Thanks for taking the time to indulge us. :)

If your local hangout isn't Facebook...

2011-04-02T19:03:00.000-07:00

Normally, I'm a girl who isn't afraid of commitment. I never was one to shy away from a situation where there would be responsibility...and yet, I'm falling prey to a non-committal relationship. It's called Facebook. I can log on at my leisure, stay as long as I'd like, make a comment or status update if I please...or not and get off. Now, my blog on the other hand is a serious committed relationship. It takes time, energy and yes commitment. I need to update the backgrounds, (errr. whit does...but I sooo make the suggestion--does that count??) think up blog-worthy stories, come up with witty titles and if needs be, upload pictures and such. I decided since my husband is out tonight, I would make a date with my blog and give it some of the TLC is desperately needs. I've been hanging out at the other place and uploading pictures there...and if you aren't a frequent visitor there, I thought I'd put them on here.

We decided to visit the much-anticipated Lake Michigan. We'd decided that we would take a trip out there for FHE; Just so you know it's not such an awesome idea. This was a couple of weeks ago and it was only colder than it is now--and darker earlier. We weren't smart enough to have a little forethought. No, for a moment in time we must have thought we were still in Amarillo and it's eighty degrees (that's my only excuse I can think if, because we couldn't be that mind-missing). Anyway, we trekked out there and was slapped with the colder temps and frigid humid air of Lake Michigan. Cooper insisted that he was "fine!" and didn't need his coat and settled with a jacket. You can tell in the pictures how that worked out for him. Albeit the lake was cold and freezing and gray and damp and did I mention cold?? we still had fun. We are seriously looking forward to warmer weather and the chance to take a swim in the lake.Sooo, blogger is underlining everything I write....alrighty. I didn't flip this pic..whoops. Here are my cuties. I think they are pretty adorable.Me and my girlie.Cooper showing off the castle he built. He was very insistent that I include the bridge he built. Yea, it's right...there. I'm about as sure of where it is right now as you are...My sweet Grey-Grey. He is too cute for his own good.Ella is in love with her name written out and was ecstatic when she saw that we could write her name in the sand!! What a cutie-patootie she is.Handome little Coop. He is always so good to pose for a second, or lots of seconds in my case, for a picture.As Phillip captioned...another casualty of the Chicago mob.

So, onto other things... We were able to celebrate Spring Break over the last week. We tried to do some fun things around the area to keep us entertained. We started with quite a bang. We went to the Science and Industry Museum of Chicago. I believe it's the largest Science museum in the western hemisphere. You can only imagine the whines of tired feet from me...errr, my kids. Seriously, it was amazing. It was so, so huge you could never see it all properly in one day. We decided to get season passes, so we look forward to visiting again. In one of the areas there is a large submarine display. Here are the kids showing off the bunks. True to form, they are showing off their personalities to a "t".Seriosuly one of my all-time favorite pictures of Greyson. He is such a riot. The museum has a circus display and Grey is showing off his crazy clown face?? Who knows...he is such a silly boy.Phillip decided to join in on the action...At the U-boat display...They have this really fun display that has incubators that show off the cycle of an egg. Ella wanted to take a picture with the newborn chicks. So adorable!!

Here are the kids catching butterflies on a screen. The butterflies land on your shadow. It really was so much fun. I even had to take a try at it. Ella loved having them land on her and then she would jump and scare them away. Greyson, of course, is having them land on his behind.Afterward, we decided to try some authentic Chicago-style deep-dish pizza. It was like no other pizza I have ever had! It was seriosuly like a pizza upside-down. It was pretty good and so filling. If you ever come to visit, we'll have to take you!!
One last thing I promise!! I finally finished a project. It went from start to finish in one day. I know, I know I could hardly believe it myself!! I did a couple of wordles for the boys' room. My mom has a friend that did some for her home. I haven't seen them myself, but thought that they sounded adorable. I put my own spin on it, I think and I hope that they turned out okay. You can't see all the embelishments very well because of the glare...but you can get the idea.

Anyway, happy blogging everyone. I hope that spring is blooming in your neck of the woods, because that can only mean it will eventually be up here... Until next time! :)

Food for thought...

2011-03-19T20:30:00.000-07:00

Tonight while hanging curtains in my sons' room, I was standing on their bed and it fell through the floor vent. Me thinks that maybe Weight Watchers should be on speed-dial...

Home Sweet...Indiana??

2011-03-11T13:19:00.000-08:00

I was looking at my blog background considering if I should change it. I took a glance outside at the dripping slush on my porch and was undecided if I should change it to a spring themed one, or not. The jury is still out considering the weather here in Indiana. That's right people. Indiana. Home Sweet Home. I am sure that my huge blog hiatus didn't go totally unnoticed. While the absence our world was turned on it's head. Up on our head, or not, we have truly realized that the Lord is aware of us and has provided. Being in Indiana is a blessing beyond compare. We are so lucky to be employed without skipping a beat. Anyway, we have traded our cowboy boots and hats of our beloved Amarillo, Texas for woolly mittens and fuzzy hats of Valparaiso, Indiana. We'll also be chanting "Go Crusaders" a whole lot more. We have settled into a bit of a routine and I'm slooooowwwly figuring out the odd placement (imo) of streets here. I've made it to the church house by myself a couple of time (huge victory here) and we've made the YMCA into a well visited place by our family. I'm enjoying the babysitting while I get to work out...without kids....Coop's getting the hang of Tae Kwon Do, Greyson's loving wrestling and swimming and Ella has become our little fish during her swimming lessons. We are loving our ward and Phillip's starting to scratch his head at being alone for the third Friday in a row. Sorry, Honey! I gotta fit in my book club, crafting night and GNO. He's okay with it as long as he gets me Sat. I don't have a complaint there. :) We enjoy serving in the ward and both have new callings that seem to be stretching and rewarding. The kids are getting used to their routine at school. it has been a bit of an adjustment, especially for Cooper. They are ahead in some areas and perhaps a bit behind in some. Overall, they are ahead, though. Cooper is a quick study and has picked up the information, but it has taken some adjusting. We are excited the the schools are so good here, though. The particular school the boys are going to has been awarded a blue ribbon for education. So, that is pretty pleasing to us. Overall, we are settling into place but miss our dear friends in Amarillo and the close distance to our families. We are gearing up for new adventures in Indiana and are excited to cherish this place as much as we did our last home. Here is a little pic of the kiddos the day that we moved from Amarillo. Sorry there isn't more...my picture taking has suffered a bit lately. Thanks to all that have sent notes wondering how we are doing and all the help that has been given. Love to you all!!

If you can't say something nice...

2010-11-15T13:18:00.000-08:00

On our way home from school today, Greyson was lamenting having "to be nice for 8 hours to [his] friends," which, I suppose, is a reeeeally long time when you're only 6. He questioned me...

"Do you know how hard it is to be nice?"

Yes, Greyson, yes I do.

Today

2010-11-12T12:42:00.000-08:00

Today, my baby got to play in the snow for the first time this year. She went out twice this morning. I had to get a couple of pictures even though I was bare legged and freezing! She insisted on wearing her dress coat. I couldn't resist because she just looked too darn cute in it to say no.

Today, I was driving and acting like a crazy in the car to this song. I was reminded of my sweet niece, Georgia, who said, "this song makes my bum wiggle!". I couldn't help but dance in my car, and yes, I looked like one of those moms driving down the road with carseats in the back. It was about then that I realized, "yea, I'm that cool.".

Just What I Needed...

2010-09-23T15:44:00.000-07:00

I was planning on more catching up with the whole Summer posts, but this quote caught my eye. If I remember correctly one of my sisters posted the You-Tube link to this talk, and I wanted to do something similar on my post but life got in the way and I didn't get to it. Anyway, I was reading a friend's blog and she has this as a header quote and it was so nice to read-the boost that I need. So, I thought I would share it.

"Don't give up. Don't you quit. You keep walking. You keep trying. There is help and happiness ahead. You keep your chin up. It will be alright in the end. Trust God and believe in good things to come. Some blessing come soon, some come late, some don't come until heaven; but for those who embrace the gospel of... Jesus Christ, they come." ~ Elder Jeffrey R. Holland

We are Faamiiily (as in the song...)

2010-09-13T08:50:00.000-07:00

So. I decided that when I start having dreams (anxious crazy ones...not the good, fluffy ones) about my blog it is seriously time to update. So, without further adue, here is some major summer catch-up!!

We started off the summer in the best way, I can personally think of--with family!! Lib, Kit and her kiddos were able to stop by in Oklahoma before they moved to Virginia. Whit and her munchkins were also able to visit Mom and Dad's while we were there. We had such a great time. It always seems, that the visits are never long enough, though.
My parents were sweet enough to indulge their grand kids with a few summer playthings. One of them happened to be a large inflatable pool. {my camera ran out of batteries while I was uploading picture...shocker as the huge amount there are on this post... So, there are a few of the pool fun that I didn't get to. Hopefully I will add them on as soon as I get my new battery charger.} The pool was so much fun, especially for the older kids--and lots of fun for the littler ones when the big kids were out of the pool. :)

Here's a sweet picture of my beautiful sister, Whitney, and darling little niecie Emme. They are out enjoying the day while the kids are cooling off in the pool.

MiMi and my adorable niece, Scarlett. How beautiful are these girls?!

We tried to keep the kids busy--or else they make their own kind of fun. So, we packed up the troops and headed to a favorite destination--The OKC Zoo.

Here is a pic of my Coop. He is so great for posing for his mom. He is giving me a 5 star cheeser in front of the flamingos--one of his favorite things at the zoo.I personally get a kick out of the "stand in front of ...and look like a... In this case I believe it was a centipede. I know, I know they are supposed to bring great joy to the little tots...but it just looks so darn funny to see a kid sprout imaginary insect legs. Thank you Greyson for appeasing your mom.Here is my sweet, sweet nephew Jos. He was such a sport for posing on the bronze turtle. Most of my nieces and nephews look at me like I'm a crazy. :)My boys in front of the flamingos.They have an adorable butterfly exhibit. You and go into a netted "room" and there are butterflies that are flying free. It is really fun. The little girls especially enjoyed it. Ella loved pretending that she was a butterfly (something that she does often).I was able to catch a sweet picture of my adorable niece, Georgia.Who could resist this face?!! She is so sweet I could just squeeze the stuffing out of her!!Here is a picture that has been eluding me for a long time. He's cute, cuddly and fun to play with...nope, I'm not referring to the bear but my oh-so elusive nephew, Gavin! That little guy is a hard one to catch in front of the camera. I guess he decided to appease his Auntie to get a shot with a bear that appears to be nuzzling him. I believe that this picture happens to be one of my favorites. I took another one that doesn't have my water-bibber nephew {Gunner} in it, but then it just isn't nearly as fun. Thanks for the fun memories at the zoo, kids. {not pictured--Georgia and Emme} (I believe that G. was on a much needed potty break and Emme was well, being a little one ;)Another hot spot by our clan is the Cushing Aquatic Center. Now that I have moved away I realize what a gem that place really is. We had such a fun time there and got some great pictures.

Here is Miss G playing with one of our many inflatable toys.Ella decided that one of the inflatable rings was really hat. I guess she figured it has somehow been mislabeled. Also, on the left is my cutie-patootie nephew Ezra, enjoying the sprinklers.BFF's--oh, and cousins too, Cooper and Jos. I absolutely love this picture.Little Gun Gun had such a great time. It was so much fun watching Gunner, Ella and Georgia all playing together. They are so close in age they have built-in playmates. I was even able to get Gunner to go down the "froggie slide" a couple times. Small victories folks, small victories!Mmmm, I'd say she's adorable...but then again, I might be biased. ;)Here's my ever beautiful sister, Whit. I think I thought at the time that Scarli was smiling. I'm having my doubts now that I am getting a better look at the picture...There is always so much to do when you're at MiMi and Grandad's and there is a built in forest in their backyard. It is ready-made for imaginative play. Evidently the fairies/butterflies came out to play this evening.Also one of my favs. Ella just threw her head back and laughed at something her Auntie Whit said. These are the moments, to me, that make it all worth it. {Note: Dad in the background doing his ever present work ;)}While all the cousins were here Greyson celebrated his 6th birthday. If you were to ask me what would've been the very best thing about his birthday, he would've said being able to spend it with his cousins. I'm thinkin' he has a bit of a "boy crush" on 'em. He was so excited that they were able to help him celebrate his special day. We started off the day opening his presents. The kids were all pretty willing to indulge me in all my snap-happy picture taking. I currently have this picture in my house in a frame titled "The Boys". I would have to say this is a pretty priceless pic.
Now we couldn't leave Little Ell-Bell out...Greyson was in luu-uuuv with these sandals. He had showed them to Phillip and me quite a bit earlier and we decided to indulge him for his birthday. Parenthood makes you do crazy things, like buying unattractive, light-up sandals. He was thrilled, and I guess that's what counts.Grey with all his "loot".After the presents and the always favorite lunch at CiCi's we decided to take a small jont down to Pop's. I think that the adults love this place as much as the kids do. Greyson chose his favorite pop--orange creamcicle. I'd say any orange drink would've done it, though.My beautiful niece, Emme. Look at that sweet smile!!There is rarely a picture that is taken that doesn't involve some sort of child. While, I am a great proponent of picture taking (especially when it involves kids because they generally crack me up) but it is nice sometimes to get a picture of me with...gasp...other adults. This one just happens to be with some of my very favorite people ever.I don't think that Greyson would've accepted any other type of cake than one that said "OSU". That kid seriously bleeds orange (you should see his room...but that's another post for another day). Happy birthday, Little Man, happy birthday.

Ahh, it feels nice to get this post under my belt. Thanks for sticking with me, and if you didn't a really don't blame you. :) But, nonetheless we had a great visit with my sister and their kiddos. I can't wait for the next time this happens.

Super-Duper Spring Catch-Up

2010-06-26T17:18:00.001-07:00

I vowed that I wouldn't let my son's 6th birthday get lost in all the hub-bub of the summer. So. This year I thought that I would actually play a bit of catch-up and not the annual skip-over that usually happens. Because I am doing that, I thought to myself, why not go even a bit farther back then that and post some of the other memorable events?? Then I thought, yep, why not indeed. So, without further adue... Here is the Catch-Up's of all Catch-Up's (well, sort of ;)...

Cooper's Spring Presentation

About every season Cooper and Greyson's school puts on a little presentation. Mrs. Casso, their music teacher, is brilliant with her little subjects. From 1st through 4th grade they each put on their own little shows. Their "concerts", if you will, are adorable, well thought out and very well executed. I am sure, though, that the parents get the most enjoyment out of it. I absolutely beam with pride watching Cooper, and eventually Greyson, perform. For the spring performance the 2nd graders were given the opportunity to try out for soloist parts. Cooper gathered up all of his courage and tried out. It ended up being pretty rigorous tryouts and I was quite proud of Cooper for his courage and his determination. He ended up being one of the soloists and I couldn't have been more proud of him.

Here he is before the performance. He was able to help post the colors, along with some other boys from his grade."Do you hear what I hear"?? Naw, just kidding... They were actually singing patriotic songs. Which just happened to be adorable (go figure a mother would say that...).Here is Cooper right before he sang with the other 5 soloists. He was quite nervous, but ended up doing great. And, in all of his "Cooper-ness" he was trying to direct and instruct the girl next to him about what to do and where to look right up until they were singing. His uber tendencies to direct is going to be of good use later, right??? Here is Cooper and his good friend, Keaton. They are in the same ward, school, scouts and their birthdays are only a few days apart. We've been able to meet a lot of wonderful people like the Vests here in Amarillo.

Me and Cooper. Cooper was starting to get the "I've smiled for too many pictures" smile. I tried to get him to relax...but as you can see, to no avail.

My mom, the kids' MiMi, was able to be with us. My kids, naturally, were thrilled. You'd think that my mom was their mom over how excited she gets over these performances. I guess that comes with the territory of grandparent.

Now, these next set of pictures are when 1.) Mom's still asleep 2.) the kids are very much awake and, 3.) they find the camera and decide to document their waaaay-too-early activities.

Yep, that'd be Cooper and I'm supposing that Greyson is the photographer. The real problem is, I'm not exactly sure and therein lies the real problem.Now, we have Greyson. I'm darn sure that the photographer this time is Cooper as he is taller than a sitting Grey and I know that Ella would be eye-to-eye in that scenario...but that's all I'm going on, folks. The other problem that I see is, that it is still so early that Grey has "morning crinkle face". That is, in my opinion, way. too. early.
And finally, last but never least, is Ella. Yes, that would be a whole box of cereal in her lap and her arm in it. Something tells me that I need to either get up earlier or get locks on the outside of their bedroom doors...as for me, I'm leaning towards the locks.

While my mom was here we were able to take her to one of my favorite parks in Amarillo, (they have tons!...they have the land to do it, so why not). The kids had a good time and it was wonderful to feel the sun on our faces after such a chilly and unpredictable spring.

A few days after Cooper's singing performance, Greyson our kindergartner, graduated!! It was quite a big deal and the school ordered little caps and gown for all the kids. It was adorable. Mrs. Casso helped prepare a few musical numbers that the kids did (with actions) and they were also supposed to say their name and what they wanted to be when they grew up for the graduation. About a week to two weeks before the actual graduation Greyson let me know that he in fact did not want to go to his graduation. Up until this point he was aaallll about his graduation. In fact, anytime we saw anything that said "Happy Graduation" or anything of the like he thought I needed to get it for him. After all, he was going to be a graduate. So, I talked to him about the total 180 degree shift. He let me know that he was scared to death to say his name and what he wanted to be when he grew up in front of all. those. people. He just knew there would be masses of people and they might just laugh at his name. I assured him that indeed they would not laugh at his name and helped him try to figure out what he wanted to say about his future career. He told me a scientist, no wait, a veterinarian, and then settled a few days later on the Navy. I was perplexed at this sudden career change and asked why the changes. He let me know that when they had a run-through at school that he said Navy and then everyone copied him. I asked why he had changed and he said that is what he had allllwaaaays wanted to do. Um, okay... Finally the day of Grey's graduation came and he was still a massive ball of nerves. I tried and tried to reassure him that it would be okay. I let him know that we would all be in the front cheering him on. When the graduation started and they sang a couple of songs I could tell he was nervous, still. He wasn't singing at all, but did the hand motions. Then it was time for his class to announce their names and future careers. The first classmate showed up, did their thing and then another. Then, there was a little shuffle going on behind the curtain, that incidentally I couldn't see, but my mom could, and it was Greyson so terrified he couldn't come out. He was comforted by a helper and finally, made it out after all his classmates had gone. I was so proud of him!! No one laughed, naturally, and he ended up saying Navy like ohhhh, half of the boy's in his class did. I'm thinkin' that Greyson's career choice wasn't exactly his unique idea...Here's Greyson before he goes up to say his name. He is so nervous, poor little man!

Greyson "facing his fears" like Cooper loves to say.Yay, our little Graduate!!Cooper was so proud of Greyson , he especially knew of Greyson's fears...they talk a lot (too much) at night.The three kiddos.

Momma and Daddy proud of our Kindergartner Graduate!!

Here's MiMi super proud of Greyson. She was able to see Greyson unravel behind the curtain, so she was so proud of him-for not only facing his fears, but for getting through kindergarten!!

Wow!! We both made it!! It's been long enough since I posted. It kinda feels like airing out the carpets...is that even a term any more??? I have another uber-Oklahoma post nipping at this post's heels. We've had a busy couple months and I can't wait to share out adventures. Until then, this'll have to do. Thanks for making it through!!

Happy Mother's Day

2010-05-04T13:20:00.000-07:00

Today I was able to go to my boys' school in celebration of Mother's Day. Greyson, who's in kindergarten, presented me this list. I loved it. I love seeing how his mind works. Peeking into kids' thinking process, to me is insightful...and sometimes hilarious. I hope you enjoy it half as much as I did. Happy Mother's Day

~How old is your mother? Ugh...I think 29

~What is your mother's name? Stephanie Humphrey, but I call her Mom :)

~What does your mother look like? She has blonde hair, brown eyes, and she gots kinda blonde skin on her face

~What is your favorite food for your mother to cook? Ramen Noodles-they are pretty good

~What does your mother cook that you don't like? Green beans-they are juicy inside and green. It looks like poison to me.

~What special thing does your mother do for you? She plays tickle with me

~What does your mother do around your house? Cleans up and she sometimes makes my bed for me. She also looks pretty.

~What is your mother's favorite color? Pink-because it is kind of a girlish color

~If you could take your mother anywhere, where would you go? Alabama-her sister lives there and she can see baby Emme

~If you could buy your mother anything, what would you buy? A new necklace. She loves necklaces and dresses

Love,

Greyson

Race You

2010-05-03T14:01:00.001-07:00

I heard this song and thought of my sisters. They are always sharing happy songs that make me smile. So, I thought that I'd return the favor and hope that this song brings a smile to your lips.

Bad Hair Day??

2010-04-21T09:25:00.001-07:00

This is the combination of too small of curlers rolled too tightly. Something tells me she wasn't thrilled with the outcome...

Seriously...Me??

2010-03-22T18:19:00.000-07:00

Alrighty folks, to say I've been a slacker is an enormous understatement. So...I won't even go there. I do need to post some of the happenings that have been going on as of late. BUT this post is a fun little one to get me back in the swing of things, and though it is about me (sorry!!) I feel it is, in a way, a "thank you" to one of my very favorite people in this whole universe...my sis, Whitty --who nominated me for this most gracious award. I woefully don't deserve it (especially as of late), I feel there are bloggers out there who inspire, evoke thought, humor and creativity far better than I. But, that is the beauty of this award--you get to pass it on and honor those who bring a smile to your day through their words! So, thank you Whit for this. You, to me are a a beautiful blogger and a beautiful person.

Well, now down to business. As the recipient of said award there are 7 steps that I get to follow.

Thank the person giving you this award (um a bit silly, as I would have done it anyway...but whatev)
Copy the award to your blog
Place a link to their blog
Name 7 tidbits people don't know about you from reading your blog
Nominate 7 bloggers
Place a link to those bloggers
Leave a comment letting those bloggers know about the award

Alrighty...here goes nothin'!

I helped deliver my sweet sister Whitney, when I was nearly 5 yrs. old, in our front room on the couch. I don't remember a ton about it...but enough. I remember my mom was in pain, my dad needed me to get me the bulb syringe to help get the gunk outta Whit's lungs...I couldn't find it easily, it was early, when Lib finally woke up she had a new sister, we did a "Baby Dance" the night before and magically my mom went into labor that morning, Whit didn't breath right off the bat and so my dad swatted her bottom and then she began to cry and I was wearing an Oscar the Grouch nightgown.
I wish that my life had a soundtrack playing in the background...always. Wouldn't life be better if the moments were punctuated with song that magically made funny moments funnier, touching moments sweeter...and even could make the mundane of life seem like "the good old days"--ones to never forget?? Well, I do.
I remember dates that are related to my family quite easily and outfits I wore like, seriously years ago. Ask me when my aunt's anniversary is, my great Grandma's birthday, any of my niece's and nephew's birthdays...it's a bit odd, I guess. At least that's what I'm told. Also, I remember what I wore to check into 9th grade. I don't really know why, I just do. Just odd things like that. Really, I am not sure why I can't put my brain to better use than remembering what I wore when I was 14, like scriptures, or say...Math (eek!) It really would serve me better, I guess that's something I really should work on.
I'm a "mother hen". I think it comes with the territory of being the oldest and feeling responsible for my siblings. I feel like I am tut-tutting over them (maybe when they would rather I take my "tutting" elsewhere). I love them dearly and they bring enormous joy in my life. I am so grateful for a Heavenly Father who has the wisdom to create the family unit. It is very precious to me. When my whole family is all together I sit back and savor it. My family is one with strong personalities and when we get together our fun ranges from heated debates to love and laughter. I love our times together and eagerly await for the next time we can all be together again---there goes my "mother henning" again...
I still bite my nails. It is a horrible dirty habit and I know it! I try, try and try to stop...but to no avail. I wear fake nails and I won't bite them--I will pick at them a bit though. I chalk it up to my anxious nature. (I think that sounds better than not being able to control myself...right?)
When I was a little girl I wanted to be an author. I think I still have that ambition deep inside. I guess I need a topic that will hold my interest and well...grammar school (hee, hee). I also wanted to be a nurse, a pharmacist, do interior design and an elementary school teacher peppered in there occasionally. And, I always, always wanted to be a mother. I am knee deep in that one right now, maybe another one of those will come to fruition later...who knows??
I wish that the styles were those of the fifties with the dresses that flatter the shape of women with a rear like mine. Ahhh, wouldn't that be great?!! Better yet...dresses that come with bustles??!! I have one naturally built in!! As I type this I even get all a-buzz over it. I know it's crazy...but is it really?? Don't get me wrong, I love my jeans and capris...but a style that shouts "your shape is super-duper and come-on and slip into this figure flattering dress!!". Mmmm, sounds like a little bit of heaven to me. ;)

Made it through? Wow...that's a lot of "Steph"! Well, now for my fabulous nominees... (drum roll please...)--

Holly

Kylene

Mere

Annie

Carrie

Julie

Melissa

Thank you guys for bringing a bit of sunshine to my days. Here's to being beautiful bloggers!

" I hope 'ya know, we've had a hard time"

2010-01-13T17:53:00.000-08:00

I have ohhh, so much catching up to do...it makes me dizzy thinking about it. I have got to figure out my computer+pictures+blogger. I will. I promise. But, right now I am too tired and I wanted to give a shout out to my fabulous sister Whitney. She has been so wonderful helping me update my blog backgrounds. I get so befuddled and confused and verrry nervous messing with my blog and she steps in like my princess in shining armour (sure! why not??). She helps me and *wa-lah* beautiful background. Thank you, Whitty. I'm a lucky girl to have a sis like you.
On another note... I wanted to relate my horrible, no-good, awful happenings this week. I guess just for venting purposes. On Monday Philip had accidentally left his flash-drive at home and called up and asked if I could bring it by that afternoon. I climbed into the car later that day and low and behold the van isn't working. Fabulous. (*history* we have had our fair share of car troubles this past half year and they seem to keep on comin') I call up Phillip and let him know the situation. He comes to my rescue and tries to jump-start the car. Not working so well...but finally gets it figured out. I was so grateful. I asked Phillip after all was said and done if he had grabbed his flash-drive off of the counter where I had left it. He said that he had and so we left to go drive the van around a bit to keep the battery charging. We ran an errand and then picked up the boys. After that, Phillip left and went back to work. He calls me later that afternoon and asks me if I have seen his flash-drive. As it turns out, Phillip can't find it. Normally, I would feel bad about the lost flash-drive, but not loose too much sleep over it. Not this time. Phillip has been working very diligently on his dissertation (esp. over the Christmas break, which is invaluable no-work and no-students or classes time), which also means I sacrificed not having him around over the holidays. He had saved all of his recent work on this flash drive that he had done since the middle of Dec. on this flash-drive and had yet to back it up. Needless to say, Phillip and I are quite sick over the missing item. *heavy sigh*
On another no-good, horrible incident... Today while I was on the phone with Whit (we were figuring out said blog background together) I realized my youngest was awfully quiet...stress on the awfully. I should've known better right then and there. But, I had put in Dora (her absolute fav) and tucked her into my bed (she luuuvs that) and put my mind at ease that she was comfortably watching her favorite show and maybe even could've dozed off (I can hear the chuckles and feel the eye rolls from here). I send Greyson in after a while to check on her and he yells at me that she has "finger-painted" all over the t.v. Now, I know that there isn't any finger paints to be had in her reach...but there is fingernail polish within her grasp. I dart in there and quickly get off the phone with my sister to find that she has painted our t.v., part of the stand it sits on, herself (part of her hair, too), her outfit, my bed, the carpet, the carpet, the carpet (you get the picture??). I have a dark beige carpet and the polish of choice was a fast drying pinky-tangerine. A bright color that I love on my toes in the summer. I've scrubbed, blotted, googled remedies, snipped at, cried over...but to no avail. As I type this, I figure we'll have to eventually replace the carpet. The splotches are in a highly visible traffic area (thankfully in the bedroom, though) so I don't think that we could patch the spots... We'll see what Phillip and I figure out, though. Boo to ugly, bright spots in our new carpet.
On a pretty personal note... another no-good, awful thing that I've dealt with this week is the fact that I'm not pregnant. This may come as a shocker that we're trying to add to our family, but we don't feel we're complete yet. We were lucky enough to get pregnant with Cooper and Greyson the month we wanted, but Ella was a different story. It took over a year for Ella to start her appearance. It was a hard, painful and very emotional thing for me. I can say this, though. I never wanted a baby as bad as I wanted her and every day I was grateful she was mine and in my arms. I would just sit and hold her reflecting on all the tears that I had cried waiting for her and in awe that she was finally here. I wasn't terribly excited to start the whole "trying to have a baby" process again after Ella, as it wasn't exactly a picnic. But, Phillip and I felt that it was okay to start trying again after we moved. We quickly got pregnant after just a month and we were ecstatic. But, after about seven or eight weeks, things started going wrong and I miscarried. It was (and is) a really tough thing. There are a lot of questions and not a lot of answers. But, Phillip and I do understand that Heavenly Father knows what he is doing and all trials are for our growth. We were told that we needed to wait three month before starting the whole process again and we were hopeful that we would get pregnant quickly. It's only been a month, but I already feel so behind. I hear of women that got pregnant around the same time as I had and know the genders of their unborn bundles of joy and it's rough. That being said, I would never wish this for anyone and am really happy that they are having their babies...I just wish I was too. I'm really alright and I know I'll have another baby...it just doesn't happen to be on my time table. So. I wait and understand that the Lord's timing isn't necessarily mine and figure that at some point (hopefully in the near future) that I will be planning on welcoming another baby into this world.
I hope I haven't been too much of a downer...but I just had to get the crummy happenings off of my chest. Last week Phillip gave a talk on how our trials become blessings, and I guess we're being able to figure it out first hand. He related a story one of the apostles talked about in a recent Conference talk about himself and one of his sons (who was three at the time) . The son had called his mom after he and his dad had been stuck in the Sierra Nevadas in a freak June blizzard and said "I hope 'ya know, we've had a hard time". That's kinda how we're feeling right now. That being said, we're trying not to wallow in it and are picking ourselves up by our boot straps and walking forward.
Thank you for your ear. I promise I'll be more upbeat next post. Here's to tomorrow and the beginning of another day.

Happy December To All!!

2009-12-01T17:15:00.000-08:00

I love, love, love this time of the year. It is my favorite beyond compare. All of it...the world taking time to pause and reflect on the birth of our Savior, the trees, the lights, family and friends coming together...oh, I could go on and on.
My family and I just returned from our Thanksgiving travels yesterday so I am spread a little thin with getting unpacked and trying to put up our tree. I have a post a brewin' upstairs in my head. I'll make sure and post that a.s.a.p. so I can get on with the Christmas festivites...and update that blog background!!
Happy December to all and Merry Christmas!! I hope this month unfolds all that you hope it to be.

Love,
~Me

My Boos and Little Ghoul

2009-11-09T17:22:00.000-08:00

Naturally, I'm slow on the uptake regarding my Halloween post...but then again I wouldn't want to break tradition and actually post on time, would I??

I had been trrrying to do Halloween crafts off and on during the month and was semi-successful. (i am in constant awe of the mommies that are crafty and all put-together with festive meals and crafts to fill the season...i only aspire to be like you) I was able to swing a few things, though and carving pumpkins was one of them. I have many a memory of carving pumpkins the Sunday afternoon before Halloween as a family and then eating the roasted pumpkin seeds. Good times, good times (well, at least for me...evidently the festive tradition left Liberty scarred) ;). I wanted to make sure that I continued the tradition with my family, so carving was a must.Here is a cute picture of Daddy and Cooper. We all contributed with the de-gunking and carving.My kids this year only got to go trick-or-treating on actual Halloween compared to the two to three times they normally do (tough, huh ;). We were out of town for the ward's Trunk-or-Treat and we have in the past also participated in the city's Halloween celebration when we lived in Stillwater. So, they were pretty excited the night of because of the lack of normal festivities. *disclaimer* I have always envisioned my children to have the "perfect" costume. It may or may not be handmade, but it would never, ever be the Wal-Mart type, polyester costumes that are plastic and flimsy. That being said (I hope I haven't offended anyone, because if there is anything motherhood has taught me is never, ever say "never") I obviously had something in mind for my kids and they generally had an entirely different one. *sigh* Greyson originally had chosen to be a pirate. "Great!", I thought. We have a fantastic costume already that complied to all of my "Halloween specifications". So, I wouldn't have to buy one and he would look oh-so-cute. Cooper had a bit harder time deciding on his costume, but finally decided that he wanted to be Anakin Skywalker. Now, it's quite ironic that Cooper wants to be Anakin because 1.) he really hasn't ever seen Star Wars 2.) the only real exposure he's had is on our Star Wars Lego Wii game and that hardly carries the story line and well, c'mon people, it's Legos and 3.) Cooper hates, hates, hates any type of villain or disgusting Halloween-y type character. I found it highly ironic that Anakin turns into Darth Vader one of the most notorious villains ever. I told Cooper who Anakin turns out to be and he flat out refused to believe me....c'est la vie. Oh well. He wouldn't be swayed. I had a hard time figuring out how I was going to make Anikan work and hadn't really figured it out until "the" garage sale happened. Phillip happened upon a garage sale on a Saturday morning with the boys (shocker, I know *insert eye roll * ;). And they just happened upon a Obi Wan Kenobi costume that looked amazingly like an Anikan Skywalker costume...complete with polyester and velcro. How could Phillip say no?? Well, he didn't AND he didn't say no to his other puppy-dog eyed son when he found a Batman costume complete with a plastic (albeit a thick plastic) cape, talking (you can imagine how thrilled I am with that) belt and a super-safe mask (insert sarcasm). Ahhh, the joy of motherhood when your picture-perfect idealism goes swimming down the drain. Oh well. I told myself to suck it up and said alright, it's their Halloween--not mine and if that's what makes them happy then deal with it, and I did.

We decided to take them around our neighborhood and it was great. The neighbors were kind and my kids made a haul. So much, in fact, that the next day the missionaries stopped by and we had them take a huge, bulging gallon ziplock bag home and we are still eating away on the loot.Here is Grey with his mask off...and with it on... Ironically, he had it off most of the night "because it made him all sweaty...even when it's not cold and when it is, too!"

Here's Cooper as Darth, ahem... Anakin, without his hood....and with.Annnnnddddd, this would be me dressing and taking a picture of my daughter w/o her costume on the correct way. That right folks, I put my daughter in her little witch's costume backwards. I'm an idiot. Oh well. I finally realized what I did about 3 houses into trick-or-treating and switched it around. Poor little girl. We weren't even sure we were going to take her because she was feeling so crummy... we finally realized it was probably with the Swine Flu. I guess we may have been giving away a little Swine Flu with our candy (oops!!).Here is the costume on the correct way. I couldn't get her to even humor me with a look at the camera. She had had it, but she thought she was well enough to eat candy {insert eye roll}.

My little boos and ghoul.

Here are the boys with their own custom carved pumpkins.

We hope you all had a Happy Halloween! We sure did and are anxiously looking forward to Thanksgiving day and Christmas season!

Happy Birthday, Sweet Girl!!

2009-11-01T11:23:00.001-08:00

While there are sooo many posts that I need to catch up on right now, I didn't want this one to fall through the cracks. With Ella's birthday being so close to Halloween I could see it happen. So, first things first.
My baby girl turned two. Can you believe it?!! In some ways I can...seeing that she has two cousins, that she adores, that have already turned the "big 2" so, she wasn't too far behind, but then again it's odd because I feel like she is still my baby in some ways. I can still remember wanting her in our family for so long and then being blessed to carry her for 9 months. We were all so excited to welcome Ella into our family. We ached for her. There was so much anticipation for Ella's birth...not only because she was our first girl, and all the fun things that come with that, but she was another blessing to join our family. She has been a joy and a learning experience for all of us since she was born. She is naturally a nurturer, a mother. She loves her babies and will dote on them. She also loves the fun and frills of being a girl. It is fun to have a daughter who gets excited over shoes and bows as much as I do. Ella also is an opinionated little one. She knows what she wants. I am learning Ella also has a "strength of spirit". Hopefully, she will be a pillar of strength for the right. That being said, she is quite shy and will hang back to be with Momma. I usually don't mind too much, as we have become quite good pals. :) Once someone has gained Ella's trust she is generally pretty loyal...it just takes her a while to warm up. :)

I can't imagine my existence with out my sweet Ella-Bell. She makes my heart sing and I thank my Heavenly Father every day for my sweet daughter. Happy birthday my beautiful little one.Here is Ella before she opens all of her presents.Hmmm, could this be what I think it is??

Ella is feeding her baby doll in her brand new sling (thank you Auntie Libby and Auntie Whitty!!) while properly adorned in her tiara. Hmmm, maybe she has something there... If I walked around in a crown while parenting maybe I would get the proper respect I deserve...;) Tiara (check), tu-tu (check), favorite toys (check), cell phone (check)...one satisfied little girl. The boys on Ella's birthday...they wanted some TLC, too. ;)We were also surprised with snow on Ella's birthday. Crazy weather, I tell 'ya, crazy!! Per birthday tradition we went out to eat on Ella's birthday. We went "high class" and went to Burger King. She did enjoy the play gym and yummo...the mac n' cheese!!

Poor little girl hasn't been feeling well...so, she hasn't exactly been in the mood to smile at the camera. Thus, the pictures have suffered a bit. *sigh* Oh well. :)

Phillip helping Ella blow out her candles, as she hasn't quiet mastered her extinguishing skills.

Yummo...chocolate cake (no shame in that bite, either! ;)!

Happy birthday sweet girl...and here's to many more!!

Playing Catch-Up

2009-10-21T12:06:00.000-07:00

***Disclaimer*** Some major catch-up going on *** ;)

Life has just been truckin' by. I kept on meaning to post, but "life" has gotten in the way. So. I decided that enough was enough and I would get down to business and post.
Before the weather turned too cold Phillip wanted to take the boys camping. We realized it would be impossible to take the boys camping on Friday and get to their 9:00 am soccer games. So, we decided backyard camping would have to do. They loved it. Ella was especially in luuuv. The boys gathered pillows and sleeping bags and Ella just layed there, sucking on her much beloved binkie and looking into the sky. It was pretty darn cute. Ella did sleep inside with me, but the boys and Phillip slept in the tent...and they made it the whole night!!

Boys in the Hood...errr, tent

My three cuties

Since the boys have been in school Ella and I have a had a little bit more time to do things just the two of us. Every Wednesday my ward has playgroup. On one such Wednesday we all went to the free (!) zoo. Ohhh, does Ella love the animals. She loves saying what noise they make. She especially loves the bears, lions and tigers because they growl. I must say it is a bit comical to hear such a girly-girl making such a "growly" noise and getting such a kick out of it.

Ella in front of the lions
I did want to clear up one little thing, though. Just in case you were under any pretense that it is all roses and puppy dog tails with just me and Ella around, I wanted to set the record straight. *disclaimer* I love my daughter verrrry much and am grateful for her everyday. But, that said she is a little girly terror. She gets into my makeup, cleaners and "cleans" everything she shouldn't, loves my nail polishes (thankfully, she hasn't done irreparable damage with this one) and she simply can't get enough of lotion. I only mention this because I found this particular mess ironic beyond belief. She had gotten into some lotion that I have and she loves to squirt it everywhere and slather it on her body. It is quite the mess. As I was cleaning up the mess I noticed that the label on the lotion states it is for "Stress Relief". Ha!! I don't think they had this in mind when they were creating it. Hmmm, now that I think about it, maybe the scent filtrated through my senses and I found this ironic instead of maddening. Maybe they do have something there...When I moved to Amarillo I was afraid that my beloved annual tradition of going to a pumpkin patch and picking out pumpkins had been a thing of the past. I was thrilled to learn that Amarillo has a couple (!) pumpkin patches and I was ecstatic to learn that they were oh-so much more than that! The school that my boys attend takes the kindergartners and the next week the 2nd graders to the pumpkin patch. They not only get to pick out their very own pumpkin but there are rides, hay towers and so much more. Phillip was able to go with Greyson and his class last Friday and I'll be going with Cooper this Friday. Phillip did a stellar job of taking pictures; I won't bore you to death with all of them, though. ;)Greyson showing off his much loved pumpkin (or punkin as Greyson calls it). He was pretty upset that he couldn't carry off a ginormous one (and so was Phillip as he carried it around all afternoon for Grey). So, we promised him that we would go to another pumpkin patch and let him pick out a huge one for home...he held up on his end. The one he chose last weekend was huge!Grey wearing his "Kindergarten Rocks" t-shirt. He loves it as it is not only blue (his 2nd favorite color next to orange (Go Pokes!), it is "comfy" clothes and it says "kindergarten rocks"! What kid wouldn't love it??

I also hear that Grey is a corn shuckin' fool. He let me know that he was "the second winner". I'll make sure and call him into the kitchen to help when we're having corn for dinner. ;)

Greyson and his good friend, Brian

This past weekend we were so excited to have MiMi and Grandad come down from Stillwater. My mom asked us forever ago if they could come down for the boys' Primary Program and we were thrilled to have them. The boys did such a great job and it always makes my heart skip a beat to see them sing. For the occasion (and because I would've been sending Cooper in church shorts and sandals) we got Cooper a suit. He looked so handsome. I need to get a couple of pictures of him in it. We also thought that it was a good idea because his baptism is right around the corner. Crazy, huh!! For fun on Saturday we went to the other pumpkin patch that the boys don't go to for school. It was so much fun!! It was great having the boys have a grand time playing in the dirt hill that has a slide inside (!) of it. A dream of many a boy, I think. Play in the corn sandbox, run around in the bay bail tunnel, climb the hay bail tower and so much more while I chatted with my mom and dad. We snacked on carmel and kettle corn, traveled the large corn maze, rode on the tractor ride and picked my pumpkins to decorate my home. I think that I had as much fun as my boys did. It was also a treat to have my parents here while Phillip was set apart as a counselor in the bishopric. Needless to say, I have really felt my parents absence as I have been a single mother this week. I'm thinking it might slow down a bit as the new bishopric gets their feet under them. Thanks Mom and Dad!! I love you so much and am so grateful for the sacrifice it was to come and support us!!

Cooper showing us his maze punch card. We went to every single stop...all 12!! Cooper was quite determined to get to all of them as you get to enter a drawing for a handheld ipod thingie if you got them all punched.

Mom taking Ella for a cow ride. She loved it!!

Cooper and Greyson on the top of the haybail tower. It was really quite high. There was bluegrass folk music playing and Cooper had no qualms tap dancing and doing a jig on top. It was hilarious.

Well, that about wraps it up for now. Thanks for sticking with me this far, guys. Really, you're a trooper. :)

Taylie's Story

2009-10-07T06:39:00.000-07:00

I had planned on posting about my kiddos and some of the fun they've had the last couple weeks. I still plan on doing it...just not right now. Given the struggle I have been going through this week, I felt this post was needed. I hope that this helps this sweet girl and her family. I can't even imagine the pain and heartache they are suffering and if this post helps in some way then I'm happy to do it. Thank you, Kylene for getting the ball rolling. Check out Taylie's story here.

Soccer and some Singin'

2009-09-23T09:40:00.000-07:00

Not too much has been going on here. We are just adjusting to life in general. But, I did want to share a couple of fun things that my boys have been involved in.

In Amarillo most of the soccer teams have either practice and/or games on Sunday. I was told by a friend at church that there is a team called Upward Soccer where they practice and have games on days other than Sunday. We were thrilled to get the boys into soccer here and onto teams that had the same standards as we have and teach good principles. My boys, for the most part, really enjoy soccer and we have told them that everyone has an important place on the team. Let's just say we don't necessarily have a couple of David Beckham's on our hands. ;)We have found though, that Cooper uses his size (it's a 1st and 2nd grade team and he is a 2nd grader. Not to mention he is taller than his team mates) to get into the pack. Then he "muscles" the ball out, and Greyson is pretty quick. He defends the ball and does a pretty good job of stealing the ball and turning it around towards their goal. They do try hard and I am really proud of them and enjoy watching them play.

Cooper waiting and watching Greyson's team before he plays.

Cooper "muscling" his way into the pack.

Going after that ball!

Greyson during his game while he sits out to let all team mates play. The sun was really bright...the smile and the contorted face explains that real well.

Greyson getting in there and playing.

Greyson and his team. He's the boy on the far right (our right).

Another fun thing that has been going on is the boys' elementary school dedication. I actually went to it this morning, so these pictures are "hot off the press today". :) When we moved here we had no idea that the boys would get to go to a brand-spankin' new school. Through a bit of "tweaking" they were able to attend and they are really enjoying it. I am amazed how "smart" the school is. They have Smart Boards and other highly electronic things. I think back (and I'm not that old) and remember the actual blackboard and chalk that I used. I am quite pleased how technical the school is, they really seemed to be interested in giving the best education my boys can get. Today at Hillside Elementary School's dedication we were able to hear from Amarillo's mayor, the state representative, the Canyon School District President and other highly visible people of Texas. I thought it was pretty neat they made priority in their schedules for the dedication. I must say, above all the pomp and circumstance I enjoyed the picture slide show with music (I don't know what it is about music and pictures, but it always makes me want to cry) and the kids' song. I know they had been practicing the song for quite awhile, because Cooper and Grey have been singing it at home. It was really beautiful and it made my heart swell so big to see my boys sing their hearts out. I thought that it would pop right out of my chest.Here is Cooper singing his little heart out.Greyson while he was waiting for their part to sing.

Here's Cooper singing and doing the arm motions to go with the song.

It has been fun watching and supporting my boys in their activities. It helps me remember what good boys they are and how I am blessed to be their mother.

Fall Smells, "Oopsie" and a Crazy Little Nut

2009-09-14T15:14:00.000-07:00

It's been feeling a bit like Fall around here...and I am a total seasonal girl. I don't like soup in the summer, I love baking in the fall and winter and I l.o.v.e. seasonal scents. Yumm-o!! I was thinking that I needed to get some fall smells going on so I decided to take myself and Ella to the mall. (oh, darn-it! ;) So, Ell and I got a Auntie Anne's pretzel for lunch and then headed to Bath and Body Works. Going to that store is a bit painful, because I want to buy, buy, buy. Not so good... Anyway, I had a purpose in mind and I saw the fall scents beckoning me. Ahhh, love them. I took one sniff and I was in luuuv. I smelled the "leaves" scent and thought it was heavenly. I was looking for the Wallflower starters because I thought that maybe I should replace my old ones and got thinking that since my home is a bit larger I should try these: They are plugged in and I am currently basking in a very powerful fall scent....hmmmm. Maybe too powerful?? We'll see... Wait!! I totally forgot to mention the best part! When I went in they were having buy one get one free. Love it!! Makes a good-smelly home a guilt-free home and who doesn't love that??

Does anyone else out there start a project, get looking at it and then after it's done realize it's not exactly what you had envisioned?? Well, I have....lots. There was a space above my daughter's changing table and it need something else. I didn't know exactly, but when my mom and sister came and visited they put their finger on it. A vinyl saying. Love it!! I was so excited! We looked when they were here and I found this saying on sale (!) for way cheap and it was cute enough so we tackled the project and I was pleased...or so I thought. As the days passed I kept looking at it and thinking that something was not quite the way I wanted it. I finally figured it out. It was too light for the wall and it didn't "pop" like I wanted. I still liked the quote and it was already hung...what to do... So. I decided to color it with permanent marker. One may think I am crazy. Well, that may be true, but I couldn't think of another way to fix it w/o taking it down. So, I am carefully pulling up, corner by corner, and coloring the saying. It's been quite the task, but I think that it looks loads better.On another topic...even with going to the mall, Book Fair and other craziness my daughter still manages to dump old, dirty, dead-buggy water that had accumulated in the empty sandbox (gotta get that filled) all over her, eat a package of still packaged gum....don't worry, I got to it before she swallowed any, dump a jar full of Styrofoam fruit all over the living room and try to eat it. Gotta love the permanent bite marks. Ohhh the joys of a two year old. Here is a picture of her stripped down to her skivvies because she was absolutely soaked from the gross water. What a crazy little nut.

My Mother Taught Me Better Than This!!...and Other Grand Adventures

2009-09-05T14:28:00.000-07:00

I have been meaning to update sooner then I have, but I was busy having fun and showing off a bit of Amarillo to my mom and my sister, Whitney and her kiddos. So, pardon the tardiness. ;)

You may be wondering what the title was referring to when I said that my mother taught me better then this. That would be these:

If I saw this picture I may be thinking to myself what's so wrong with a pair of Dora sandals?? Well, it all began with a harmless trip to Kohl's. I have been checking out the shopping a little bit now that the boys have been in school (love the freedom). I was looking at the jewelry and Ella insists that all of it is hers. She lets me know it's "mine"! Getting a bit tired of hearing her incessant cries that all the jewelry belongs to her and she has all licence to try on (and keep) whatever she wants. I tell her we can go to the shoes...her other passion (a girl after my own heart). She breaths "shoes" and we're off. I am looking at little cute fall shoes for her and she lays eyes on that particular pair of Dora shoes. She won't let them out of her sweaty little hands...unless it's to try them on. I get a look at them and folks, they light up. Ella is AMAZED. She bops them against the floor and cannot believe her eyes. Love at first sight. I get a bit better look at them and see that they are two different sizes...no good. I ask the sales lady if there are matches to them and evidently some person has purchased a 5 and and size 6. I get a bit better look and realize that a.) there is no price tag and b.) they are plastic. I ask the sales lady how much they cost and she tells me they are on sale for $14.50, but since they are two different sizes they would give them to me for 1/2 off...$7.25. I am thinking...um, yeah...they should be paying ME to take them off their hands. What crazy lady would purchase shoes that aren't the same size?? By now Ella has wielded her feet into the mismatched sandals and are proudly wearing them. I try to take them off, but she pitches a fit. So, I decided that I will let her wear them while I continue to browse and then stealthy take them off and slip them onto a shelf while she is is busy looking elsewhere. (Fantasy World??....I think so) As fate would have it, Ella takes off the shoes herself and so I plan on just "leaving" them somewhere in the store...not to go back to the shoe section because it would start the cycle all over again. But...then I remember how much of a deal I had made with the sales lady and realize she would remember me and the mismatched shoes and see that I totally ditched them in the middle of the store...tacky, tacky, tacky. Well, I continue looking around and actually forget the Dora shoes were in my basket altogether and then remember that I need to get my boys from school. So, I rushed up to the front of the store to purchase the couple of things I picked out and Ella spies the sandals...a bit faster then I do. She has them clutched so tightly in her hands and I try to reason with her and tug them all at the same time. I am running out of time and she is making such a big fuss all the while there is a line beginning to form behind me. I must admit to all, that I have a "bit" of an anxiety problem and I could feel it rising as I struggled with my daughter who refuses to give up the mismatched, plastic, light-up Dora sandals....all of which my mother would staunchly remind me are a horrible deal. After all, I did have her words ring in my ears ("they should pay you to take them off their hands!). My anxiety and the screeching, I must say, drowned out all reason and I purchased the Dora sandals. When I get home and I see them placed on her sweet, chubby feet I think of all the negatives of the shoes and realize I lost that battle, but she was so insistent and who could say no to this face??

Onto other naughtiness... Another love of my sweet daughter's is makeup. I will, on occasion, sit in front of a window and do my makeup. I will get a hand mirror and place it on the window sill and put my makeup on while sitting on the floor. Ella gets the routine and she will grab a compact and brush and scoot her little bottom right in front of me. She will sit with her head right in front of my view. I will place her out of the way, but she will repeat the bottom scooching and head blocking until I get sick of getting her out of the way. She "gets" for the most part what each product does, and I was proven right on this assumption the other day. While my mom and sister were here my mother gave Whitney's youngest, Scarlett, a mascara to fiddle around with. She is young enough she wouldn't have opened it, just roll it around. We were all getting ready and then we see Ella emerge looking like this:The picture didn't come out very clear, but she has mascara all over her eyes and even onto her lashes. I was quite shocked that she could get it onto her lashes w/o poking her eye...but then I remember that she has amazing dexterity. She was pleased as punch and could see no problem with her naughtiness. We scoured the house looking for the mascara aftermath. We ran straight to Georgia (Whit's other daughter) with whom Ella has loads of naughty fun with. But no, Georgia was playing beautifully by herself. So, we continue our hunt and eventually find the mascara tube perfectly closed w/o as much of a smudge on anything (remember the amazing dexterity) and she hates to be dirty. So, I shouldn't have been as surprised as I was. Wiping off the mascara, I did have to chuckle to myself at the girly naughtiness that had been abounding.

Onto other fun things...

While Whitney and my mother was here we were able to go to Cadillac Ranch. One of my favorite, fun, simple things in Amarillo. I guess I love it so much because it is characteristically Amarillo. If you ever drive through, it is fun to see. The kids got quite a kick out of the cars sticking out of the air and actually getting to color! on them. We didn't stay too long as we brought permanent markers (Phillip's brainchild)...at least it wasn't spray paint (what is traditionally used to color the cars). Scratch that, the kids ended up picking up the discarded cans and trying to spray them, much to our protests to put them down. Cooper still ended up getting blue spray paint on and in his ear...I don't know how they do it. Overall, we did have a fun time and left our mark on a interesting art statement.

Greyson inside of a Cadillac making his mark.

Ezra and Coop happy to be together...and loving the dirt, cars and coloring on whatever their heart's desire.

Little Miss Georgia taking time out of her scribbles to take a picture.

Boys in the Hood....ummm, literally.

Cutie-patootie Scarlett. Ahhh, love that little girl.

The girls kept insisting that they get their hands traced on the cars...Georgia even tried on her own. Gotta love green permanet marker hands... My mother sweetly took their little hands and traced them. They loved it.

After that, we went to Blue Sky Burger and had a grand time. They have fantastic burgers and may I say a fabulous sand area for the kids to play.
It is wonderful because there isn't humidity like there is in Oklahoma. We sit out on the tree shaded deck and feel the breeze while the kids play. It's wonderful. We had lots of fun and only had to deal with the sand covered scalps (much to my sister's dismay).

I am so grateful they traveled down here and were able to see my little piece of the world. And, I just want to tell them how much I love and miss them (already! :)

Time to Face the Music

2009-08-26T16:27:00.001-07:00

***Disclaimer*** This is an "uber-post". I am playing catch-up, so it's quite the long one. I'm not going to even try to cram the whole summer into this post...I think I'll start with the present and work backwards... Nonetheless, you have been warned. So, grab your favorite drink, relax and have a read. :)

After being terribly neglectful in my posting, I have decided to face the music and dive right in. To say this summer has been hectic and crazy is an understatement. Starting the beginning of July, I had family come to Oklahoma to help me de-junk and go through three (+) years of stuff. I can never tell them thank-you enough for that. It helped putting my things away sooo much nicer. Then it was packing time. As I went along, I realized that I was comparing my move to having a baby in a lot of ways. When I was knee-deep packing my kitchen at midnight and crying because I hated it so much, I had a thought. Packing is a lot like going through labor. You almost look past it because you are looking forward to the move (or the baby, in my comparison). You also don't ever remember how painful it really is until you are in the thick of it.

Making it to Amarillo was a feat in itself. We had to rent a trailer to haul the rest of our stuff that didn't fit in the largest truck...yep, we didn't fit. Such a nightmare. On the way we nearly ran out of gas because of the large stretch between OKC and Amarillo. We also had quite the car problem three miles from our home in a torrential rain and lightning storm at midnight. Oh! And the locks were crazy switched with our home and the one next door (fixed now) so we weren't sure if we were going to get in once we got here (we did). Just one thing after another... All in all we feel extremely blessed to have everything eventually work out.

Once we moved in, I have been feeling similar to the way I feel after I've had a baby. You are so excited to have this new, sweet life in your home but the upheaval is huge. Nothing is the same and you feel all out of whack...but you wouldn't have it any other way....because it's the way it's supposed to be. It just takes adjusting.

Our home

Yep, it's that flat here. Now before you start judging...the sky is enormous and so beautiful. You can see forever. It is truly amazing. A couple of shots from the inside. Don't judge my by the mess...I seriously just grabbed the camera and took a couple. It can give you a rough idea...
Anyway, we are settling in (a large thank-you to my sweet mother who followed us here and helped set up most of my home). The boys have started school after another bump in the road. They are loving it and I am loving the one-on-one time with my sweet Ella. It has been a fun couple of days knocking around the house and today I went to Phillip's office to help him decorate. Very fun.

First day of kindergarten for Grey and second grade for Cooper.

We recently visited Lubbock, TX for the first time. It was neat to be able to see a part of the country that we had never seen. We are part of the Lubbock Temple District, so we thought we would give it a look. It is beautiful. Cooper kept saying, "I wish I could go inside....". I re-explained to him that you can't go in until you are 12 and even then you have to be a good boy. He said he knew...but that didn't stop him from vocally wishing aloud...a lot and often. It actually does my heart good to hear him long to enter the sacred doors of the temple. Here are a few pictures of us on temple grounds.

We also had a good time just looking around and getting a feel for the area. It has been fun exploring new places and we look forward to getting to see more.

I also wanted to throw in a last picture of my little Ell-Bell. We sure love her and are joyfully watching her grow. It has been a treat. I realized I often post pictures of her look all mowgli and decided I would show her looking all dolled up.

Whew!! You made it!!! I am impressed. Thanks for sticking with me...I know it was long. You get a gold star (and if it is up to Greyson, he would put it right in the middle of your forehead). ;)

Attention, Attention

2009-08-07T08:18:00.000-07:00

To all my loyal and not so loyal readers out there:
I have not abandoned my blog, I repeat, I have not abandoned my blog. I will be posting soon as there has been a huge upheaval in my life (moving to Amarillo). I promise to have an updated blog soon. After all, there is always more to post then there is time, right?? ;)

Love,
Steph

Gunner's Apprentice

2009-06-26T09:10:00.000-07:00

I have come to the conclusion that Ella has been taking tutorials from Gunner. Maybe she sneaks on the computer at night while we are all asleep...

Don't 'ya just luuuv her crazy hair, diaper clad and in the boys' mismatched flipflops. Now that's livin'.

Pics

2009-06-23T14:30:00.000-07:00

This is for Lib (and Whitty). Just some pics I wanted to share and my email was taking for.ev.er!!

Sisters

2009-06-04T10:34:00.000-07:00

I've been thinking about families lately, especially because schools out and I have all three kiddos home with me all. day. long., I also got to spend a week w/ my sis and her family (a post to come on that), and I have been able (and will) see both sides of my family recently.
I often talk about how much I adore my sisters (and I do...for real!) but I don't often talk about the sisters I didn't grow up with (no...my dad didn't have an illegitimate family ;). I'm talking about my sisters-in-law. All three of them are very special women whom I admire a great deal. I believe that it is very important for my sons to see women who are strong and independent. It gives them the perspective that women can be tender, loving, supportive nurturers and are equal to men...not superior, but hand in hand they can raise a family in righteousness. I am grateful that Cooper and Greyson have the opportunity to see that on my side of the family and on Phillip's. My sisters-in-law are successful women in and out of the home. They strive to do the right thing and are strong in the gospel. They are very talented and I admire all that they have accomplished. I feel that I often fall short when I compare myself to them, but remind myself that we all have our own strengths and weaknesses (I'd just like more of their strengths ;). They are beautiful women inside and out. They have grown through adversity and I admire their strength and courage. I feel blessed to have married into such a wonderful family and get to call Emily, Julie and April "sister".

Say What?

2009-05-19T06:57:00.000-07:00

Cooper: I want to be a scientist.
Me: Really? That's neat.
Cooper: Yea, so I can discover the mysteries of the Giant Squid.
Me: Wow! (suppressing giggles)

Reeeallly?

Everything But The Kitchen Sink

2009-05-13T10:59:00.000-07:00

I had come up with a whole laundry list of reasons why I have been the self named Blogger Looser...the weather (what?! it totally affects me), my sis & fam visiting, visiting my Auntie in Nebraska, dirty house and car...just life. While all if these reasons are true, I must admit I have just been in a "funk". Once I wait too long to blog then it hangs on me and then I dread it. Crazy I know, but true. And, I must admit I get my quick fixes from FaceBook. I'm a bit addicted and it allows me to log on for a second (which is about all the time I have) connect with friends and then get off. Nice. Anyway, thank you for allowing me to have "confession" for my blogging neglect. Well, the sun is shining (hooray!!) my house and car are under control and I am ready to blog.

I have been a sewing fiend as of late. A lady in my sister's ward has a wonderful book of apron patterns that she let me and my sis borrow. We whipped out one for Whit, Lib (mostly, that's a story for

another day), and myself. I must say I was pretty proud of the results.

Easter happened also during my hiatus. My kids were able to wear their matching outfits, which is always a highlight for me. We had a wonderful time at my mom and dad's house. Whit and her family were able to celebrate with us. Ella really didn't understand the whole egg hunting thing...I am sure it will come by next year. Cooper was ready and willing to scoop up the "easy" eggs that Ella missed. Let's just say I was worried his basket was going to break under the weight of the eggs.

All the kids ready to egg hunt. We made them sit on the steps before we let them loose. Cooper thought we were just cruel. ;)

Ella has this adorable (at least to me) scrunchy face. I think it is hilarious...and I got it on camera! All the kids and their loot. Cooper couldn't contain all his eggs, Greyson couldn't resit making the plastic eggs his eyes and Ella is just all around confused. Ahhh, don't 'ya just love holidays?

After Easter Cooper, Ella, my mom and I were able to spend a short little time with my Aunt Tracy and her family. She was so gracious to let me bring a couple of my crazies. We came up to help, as much as we could, to decorate and organize their new home. Their home is beautiful and I loved spending time organizing and decorating it. But, the very best part was being able to be with her. She is one of my heroes and just being with her makes me want to be better. I love her and am inspired by her. She makes everything brighter, funnier and...just better by being around her. I am blessed to have her in my life.

When we returned we were greeted by my sweet sister Liberty and her family. What a joy!! It is so much fun being around her. I truly am blessed to have wonderful, fun, spirited, awesome women in my life. To say that I love having her family around is a true understatement. We were able to spend a week with her and her family. While they were here we were able to go to the Tulsa Zoo (a first for me and my family), visit Pops and have a fabulous Girl's Night (ahhhhh, shopping and dinner...who could ask for more?!!).

Here is Ella at Pops. It isn't that great of a picture, but I wanted to document her first (and hopefully only) black eye. She got it at my Aunt's when she fell on the tile floor. Poor baby.
Cutie-patootie Gavin at Pops. What a smile!

Here are our "monkeys". Naturally I cut Greyson's head out. Nice. Other than that they were all looking...a small miracle in itself. :)

Here are Lib's oldest boys and mine. (l-r) Gavin, Cooper, Greyson and Josiah

Some of the boys on a statue of an elephant. It is Cooper's favorite animal so we made sure to take a few pictures with him with them. (if you know me much i turn into a picture taking freak at the zoo...i don't know what it is, but it's like i'm a bit possessed ;)

Some of the kids on the penguin wall. The Applegates go geocaching and they took a picture at the zoo w/ the penguins for their travel bug. Such a fun family!

The week after Lib left Cooper had the opportunity to go back to the Tulsa Zoo with the first graders at his school. It was such a treat for him! He loved it. Phillip was able to go with him and they had a blast. They were able to split off and visit the zoo at their own pace. Phillip was great with him and took as long...or as little time as Cooper wanted. It was a great chance for them to spend some one-one-one time together.Phillip let Coop ride the carousel. So fun!

Another big accomplishment that occurred was Spencer's graduation from Oklahoma State University with his Master's. We couldn't be prouder of him. I was able to attend (thanks to my fab hubby who watched all of my kiddos and Whit's two oldest). He's a superstar. Spencer is such an awesome father, husband and brother-in-law. We are grateful he is on our family. Spencer got a job in Kansas City and will be moving in June. They are lucky to be having Whit and her family up there. Truly they will be a blessing where ever they go and Spencer will be successful anywhere he is.

Spencer walking down the ramp.

Whitty, Spence and me after graduation.

I'm looking forward to the next OSU grad in the fam....ahhh, that will be a glorious day!

Thank you for sticking with me this far. You are a trooper!! Give yourself a gold star (if you're Grey it will go right up on your forehead ;).

Hair Don'ts and My Little Brainiacs

2009-04-02T17:36:00.000-07:00

As the last few months have unfolded I have begun to notice a very distinct trend. At first, I thought it was a fluke, then maybe a couple of accidents...but much to my dismay...it is a definite trend. Ella has been delightfully rubbing, smearing, and slathering (i could go on) many products into her hair. I really should blame myself because from a very early age I have put gel, etc into her hair. I guess I have been preening this "catastrophe". But...I don't (not really). I thought that she would "get" that only mommies, aunties and MiMi's do Ella's hair...*sigh*...nope, that's not the case in her book. Ella has decided that Eucerin (a very heavy lotion) and all other types of lotion...good smelly (she isn't picky) belongs in hair, gobs and gobs of her very own hair cream goes in there too, not to mention toilet bowl cleaner mixed with a good helping of toilet water belongs up there too. The other day Whitney (my sis) found our two daughters slathering themselves in toilet water and toilet paper combo...Georgia (my niece) decided to bathe, brush her teeth and drink it (I'm sure Ella took part in that, too) but mostly Ella wanted to do her hair with the soppy combo. To say I am tired of this filthy and annoying habit is an understatement...but then I stop and think for a second and realize my daughter is just emulating what she sees. She sees my family trying to care for ourselves. We take pride in how we look and present ourselves and why wouldn't my daughter (who has caught on very quickly on the whole dressing and getting ready thing) not want to do the same? I have to say I'm not a huge fan of trying to get greasy Eucerin out of her hair, but then again I'm raising a daughter that cares how she looks and I guess I can take some pride in that. Ella wearing her hair smeared. She usually styles it the same way...slathered form back to front. Very cute (insert eyeroll). ;) Note she didn't leave out her eyebrows, either.
On an entirely different note, I wanted to mention that we were able to go see Monsters vs. Aliens. (Cooper calls it Monsters vee ess Aliens...comical) It was a cute movie. They did show a animated hinney. I really could have done without that. But, other than that it was worth it. The best part, I thought, was the 3D. Very fun. They don't give you the red and blue cardboard glasses, but real Elvis Costello glasses. The kids looked hilarious in them. They looked like little genius Elvis Costello's. I haven't been to a 3D movie since I was little and it was quite amazing. One of the highlights of the movie, for me, was watching Grey "karate chop" the aliens while the monsters were doing it on the movie. I looked over to see my son swooping and hi-ya-ing the screen. Loved it. Greyson also said "these glasses make it real!". Not only did we have a fun time, but we get to have Elvis Costello glasses in our dress-up box. Very cool.

My little brainiacs looking very "book smart". I guess the most ironic part is that they got the glasses to watch a movie...not for reading or anything that helps grow their mind.

Amarillo by Mornin'

2009-03-28T17:49:00.000-07:00

My sister has been a little reminder on my shoulder that I haven't posted. She doesn't actually say anything...but I feel her checking my blog to see if I've updated and it's high time I stop disappointing her. I love you, Sis. Thanks for helping me out even when you didn't know you had. ;)

Recently we had a opportunity (called Spring Break!) to travel the SHORT! trip to Amarillo, Texas. We were pleasantly surprised to find that we can get there in 4 1/2 hours and on one tank of gas...that is when we take no breaks. When we got there it was our intention to orient ourselves with the city, do a little bit of sight seeing, and try to figure out the best place to live so we can move forward with trying to find a home. In the short time that we were there we were able to accomplish all of out goals (yippee!). We fell in love (all over again) with Amarillo. Phillip and I have really felt that the Lord has guided us to Amarillo. I have told my family that the job and location feels like a glove that "just fits". We don't know why, the landscape there isn't one I would've ever really have chosen, and we aren't familiar with the area--but we feel like it's home already--in a way. We really are excited to see what's in store for us.

Just a cute pic of Coop in our first hotel room.

We first looked at homes and are trying to decide what's best for us...to rent or not to rent. The jury's still out. By the end of the trip, to say that I have decided where I want to live is an understatement. There are a couple of developments right outside of Amarillo and Canyon (the actual town that West Texas A&M University is located). It is a quick drive to either Phillip's job or Amarillo. I hesitate to write this-as I may be judged (and I have been called picky...you know who you are) but I have figured out exactly what I want. I want to be in between Amarillo and Canyon (for the reasons listed above) and because if you live close enough to Amarillo you can still get to shopping and etc. and if you live close enough to Canyon you can be in the Canyon school district...and they are the best. I also want to live in these developments because they are newer, if we rent and don't buy I still want to be in this area because then my kids aren't pulled from their school and we stay in the same ward. I am not looking forward to moving there and then re-moving all over again when we decide it's time to buy. Ahhh I know...picky, picky, picky. Can you blame a girl for knowing what she wants?

We also drove around town and (especially Phillip) oriented himself to where things are. We checked out the local Target (they have one...not a super center...but still!!) and ate at a few fun places in Amarillo. We also went to one of the biggest attractions in Amarillo and Route 66...Cadillac Ranch. For those of you who are not familiar with what it is, don't feel bad...neither did I. I had heard of it, but that was all. I was shocked and amused when I found out. There is a eccentric millionaire that own a large ranch on the outskirts of Amarillo. He thought that it was a fab idea to stick 10 Cadillacs into the ground-nose first-and call it "art". I suppose to some, it may be...all I could think of was, "how much did that cost?!" and "he could have done so much more with that money". Oh well, I'm not an eccentric millionaire and I obviously didn't have a say. ;) Eccentric and odd as it was it was a great little adventure for our family. I mean, where else can you go color and paint on cars that are sticking out of the ground??!! I would dare to say nowhere else.

I was too afraid to let them loose w/ spray paint, so we bought permanent markers. Next time, I think I'll let them use the paint and dress them to "have at it".Cutie little Grey.Our sweet Elle Bell.
We also had to go (just for the sake of going) to the Big Texan. If you are at all familiar with the area, you have heard of the place that will serve you a 72 oz. steak and if you can eat it in an hour they will give it to you free. Now that I have gone, I can say the "free part" is the best part.

It is a total tourist trap, but nonetheless we have gone, experienced it and somehow felt it was a "right of passage" in an odd way. They are very proud of their state. They actually sell suckers in the shape of Texas and when we were at one of the motels they have waffles in the state's shape....comical.

Yep, they advertise on a HUGE bull. What can I say, they take their livestock seriously. ;)

If you look verrrry closely you can see a plethora of stuffed animals on the wall, or standing....ohhh, just about anywhere. My brother, Mack, would've loved it. ;)

Me and the kiddos. If you can catch the prices on the menu, I think it said, "your child's college fund". No joke. ;)

We had a good time being together and looking forward to the adventure that lies ahead for our little family.

Things Could Be Worse...

2009-03-23T20:42:00.000-07:00

I read this on a friend's blog and thought that I would share. It makes me grateful that a.) my children are still young and don't pull stunts of this magnitude b.) they are pretty good kids. Read on and enjoy...
P.S. I have a blog to come of our trip to Amarillo... I know if I put it down in writing I will be more apt to post. So, I'll keep my word... more to come soon.

A Mother passing by her son's bedroom was astonished to see that his bed was nicely made and everything was picked up. Then she saw an envelope, propped up prominently on the pillow that was addressed to 'Mom'. With the worst premonition she opened the envelope with trembling hands and read the letter. Dear Mom: It is with great regret and sorrow that I'm writing you. I had to elope with my new girlfriend because I wanted to avoid a scene with Dad and you. I have been finding real passion with Stacy and she is so nice. But I knew you would not approve of her because of all her piercing, tattoos, tight motorcycle clothes and the fact that she is much older than I am. But it's not only the passion...Mom, she's pregnant. Stacy said that we will be very, happy. She owns a trailer in the woods and has a stack of firewood for the whole winter. We share a dream of having many more children.Stacy has opened my eyes to the fact that marijuana doesn't really hurt anyone. We'll be growing it for ourselves and trading it with the other people that live nearby for cocaine and ecstasy. In the meantime we will pray that science will find a cure for AIDS so Stacy can get better. She deserves it. Don't worry Mom. I'm 15 and I know how to take care of myself. Someday I'm sure that we will be back to visit so that you can get to know your grandchildren. Love, Your Son Paul P.S. Mom, none of the above is true. I'm over at Dustin's house. I just wanted to remind you that there are worse things in life than the report card that's in my center desk drawer. I love you. Call me when its safe to come home.......

Pigs Must Be Flying...

2009-03-10T18:39:00.000-07:00

'cause I am finally posting! I know, I know I have been such a slacker. Between going to my sis' and the winter blah's my blogging has suffered. So...here's a post and to say it's late is a huge understatement.

During my hiatus a couple of my very favorite people had birthdays. Phillip and Cooper both celebrated another year. Cooper is now a big seven year old. He is growing so much. I can't hardly believe it. I look at him with his wrist watch, chapter books and toothless smile and I can't help but feel so proud to be his mother. He is such a special boy and I am so lucky to be his mom. Because it's been sooooo long I decided to shake things up. Instead of a travel log I wanted to tell everyone 10 reasons I think they are special.

Cooper is special because:

1. He is a wonderful son. He loves to help out. He'll ask me if he can carry the diaper bag while I carry Ella. He is such a helper and I couldn't get around without him.

2. He loves music. He sings beautifully. I love to hear him sing Primary songs. He is like a ray of light when he sings and it often chokes me up. Cooper is so pure when he is singing and it is one of my very favorite sounds in the world.

3. He is an excellent reader. Cooper was one of the very earliest readers in his class and he reads very well. It has been a joy to watch him develop and grow. This has been one of my favorite things to watch bloom.

4. Cooper loves to learn. He strives to do more and be more. He is excited to memorize The Articles of Faith in Primary. He has an excellent memory and so he loves the challenge to memorize them all.

5. He likes to be creative. Cooper enjoys doing "crafts" and creating. He loves to build tents and then "decorate" the inside with all sorts of pictures and toys. Fun for him... a bit of a clean-up job for me and Phillip. ;)

6. Cooper loves the scriptures. He is eager to have them read to him every night and has been enjoying reading them himself. Phillip and I planned on giving him a set of scriptures for his 8th birthday but decided he was ready for him this birthday. He loves to read them and look at the pictures.

7. Cooper is a wonderful brother. He enjoys playing with Greyson. They enjoy riding bikes together and he'll read Grey books. Cooper is very sweet to Ella. He will watch over her and make sure that she isn't getting into any trouble. He is always very excited at the thought of more children to come into our family, as well.

8. He has a sense of style. This may sound a but funny, but it is something that is just "Cooper". It was something that just came with him. He loves to look nice and he has a sense of what goes well together. It is fun to watch him pick out his own clothes...and they generally match quite well.

9. Cooper is very sweet. He loves to pick flowers...well flowering weeds that are in our yard and give them to me. He is never embarrassed to tell me he loves me and hold my hand in public. This all may change in the future...but I think that he will still be as loving. He often will tell me that he loves me and gives me a hug without my initiation.

10. He sleeps very well. Another thing that may sound a bit silly, but is innately Cooper. He has been a very excellent sleeper since he was little. He liked his naps when he was young and would reach for his crib when it was nap time. He doesn't overly complain about bedtime even now and when it's "lights out" he will be asleep soon after. It has always been a relief and a blessing to me to know that I don't have to struggle with him at bedtime.

I love you, my sweet boy!!

Cooper and his Mimi...aren't they beautiful?!

Everyone at Cooper's birthday celebration. We gathered at Incredible Pizza in OKC

Cooper on the bumper cars at Incredible Pizza.

Cooper ready to open his presents on his birthday morning.

Me, Uncle Mack and Cooper at Incredible Pizza.

Cooper and Grandma...so sweet.
Phillip had a birthday that followed a few days later. Ten reasons that Phillip is special.

Phillip is special because:

1. Phillip always wants to help. He would do anything that I asked him. He wants to make my life easier any way that he can. He hasn't just done this just for me either. When his mom was the apple of his eye he was there to help her, too. She was the Stake YW pres for 10 years and he would go up to Girl's Camp and help set up and then come back after it was over and help take down. He would come early and stay late for church dances as well to helo set up and take down. He loves to serve, especially his loved ones.

2. Phillip is a worthy priesthood holder. He is always very willing to give a blessing or pass the sacrament whenever needed. I am grateful for the priesthood in my home and I couldn't have it without my husband.

3. Phillip also has a sense of style...and I love it. I rarely have to "help" my husband pick out an outfit. He is a very smart dresser. He enjoys looking nice.

4. I have never met another person that loves a good deal...and can find them like my husband. He will rival any other early morning garage seller out there. He is soooo sweet and will usually take the kids (yes, all three of them) on Saturday mornings and go hunt for a good deal. He loves the steals and deals out there and the chance to give his wife...me *beam* a chance to sleep in...I know!! What a guy!!

5. Phillip is an excellent teacher. I love watching him teach. It has been a treat for me to be able to sit in on his Sunday School lessons. He truly cares about his students, whether they be at church or at a university. He wants them to succeed and his teaching reflects that.

6. Phillip is great with children. He will get up with the kids in the middle of the night and help them. He has taken it upon himself to put the boys to bed while I put Ella to bed. He will get up with Greyson (countless times, sometimes) and take him potty or with Cooper and rub his legs if he gets leg cramps. There is also no one that can swaddle a newborn like he can.

7. He is always very supportive of me. Phillip lets me be me. If I wanted to dye my hair blue and work a 40 hour week out of the home he would let me. I choose to have blond hair and stay at home because that what I want...not because my husband has ever pressured me. He also lets me flourish in my home. He supports my love of decorating my home. He understand it's my castle and lets me reflect who we are through the decorations.

8. Phillip loves to be with me....and I love being with him. We are happiest when we are together. It's been that way since we met. We spend as much time together as we can.

9. Phillip and I are very in sync with our taste. We generally enjoy the same music, food, style, etc. It is fun to know that when I choose something, my husband will like it too.

10. He wants to support me and our family. It is very important to him that we have a home, food and clothing. He tries very hard to not only meet our needs but let us enjoy life as well. I am very grateful for Phillip's education and his sacrifice to earn it.

Phillip blowing out his candle on his "itty-bitty" cake.

I love my boys and am so very blessed to have them in my life. I hope they had wonderful birthdays. I love you Phillip and Cooper!!

Holy giveaway Batman!

2009-02-25T19:46:00.000-08:00

Who doesn't love free stuff?? Check this out if you love bows as much as I do.

http://wifetoado.blogspot.com/2009/02/holy-giveaway-batman.html

Bonnie and Bonnie...or is it Thelma and Louise??

2009-01-30T16:51:00.001-08:00

That's right folks, we have two little thieves in our midst. Thelma and Louise (a.k.a Georgia and Ella) can't keep out of my sister and my diaper bags! They not only can't keep their little paws out of all the goodies that they hold...their stealing is premeditated. They always go for the lipstick, lotion or hand sanitizer and wallet. Yep, I said wallet. Who feels comfortable with a 15 and 20 mos. old toddlers with their wallet??? Not me. They have put their heads together and they have come up with a plan to expedite their heist. Louise will start with taking said lipstick out and applying it and then digging her finger in (very important step...Mother will never want it after that), Thelma will then take the lotion and/or hand sanitizer and apply profusely. Next, Louise will take the wallet out of the diaper bag and remove all debit, library etc. cards. Thelma will then take the wallet and whatever remnants are left and then they bolt together with said contra ban (by then Mom has clued in on the heist). Did I mention they laugh in the face of Danger (a.k.a. Mom)???

Video of their last heist. Be forewarned...it's long....but who doesn't love a bit of mischief??

My Girl

2009-01-27T19:03:00.000-08:00

My little Elle-Bell has been growing up so quickly. I can't believe that she is turning 15 months. She has been doing the cutest things and I can totally tell she's a girl. As a mother of both boys and a girl I can attest that they are hard-wired differently. Ella just seems more maternal--not to say that my boys don't have very tender places in their hearts for babies and such, they do, but Ella just came differently. She loves her stuffed animals, Dog-Dog and Rabbit (creative, I know), and all dolls. She will rock and love on them--so cute. And she looooves her shoes. She'll walk around and say "shoe-shoe" and she wants me to put her socks and shoes on. She loves clothes. When we are out shopping, she'll pick up clothes and hold them close to her face and did I mention she loves shoes!! We recently went to Target to birthday shop for Cooper and we went to the shoe section. Oh, did she fuss and fuss to try on the shoes. When we finally put some spring sandals on her she wanted down and she wanted to run around in them. She also let us know (loudly, I might add) that she did not want us to take them off. She wanted them left on her little toesies. Ella also loves my makeup. She wants to play in it and put it on her face. I can't believe that she knows what it's for...but she does. She also loves jewelry. In fact, today she put on a necklace and wouldn't take it off. She didn't eat it or pull on it...she just wanted to wear the costume necklace. Ella also got a purse from her fun Auntie Lib. It is the cutest thing. Ella loves it. Ell will put it on and walk around with it. It is so funny to me that she knows just what to do with it. I love my sweet, little doll. She is so precious to me and I am so grateful she is in my family. I really couldn't imagine our home without her. It has been so much fun watching her grow and develop, and I am super-excited to see what is to come. That's right Sweetie...your "my girl". It's just Ell and Me time in the morning while the boys are at school. Here is a picture of her in the morning while we are just around the house.

After Phillip and I got back from Utah it took us a couple of days to put our suitcase away. Ella decided to crawl right in and make herself comfy.

Ella is wearing a hairband for the first time...love it!! She loves my hairbands and if she sees it and I don't put it in her hair, she'll throw a little spunky. So, it was fun to get her one of her own. She is also showing off her new shirt...super-cute!!

Ella loves her Uncle Mackie...oh, and my makeup brush!

I loooove this new outfit...thanks, Mom!! I just had to take a picture of her in it. Greyson is looking on and he thinks she is pretty darn cute, too. After I took the picture I was a bit amazed...is she actually posing??

My sweet girl. I love you!!

Goin' to the Temple and We're Gonna get Married

2009-01-20T14:45:00.000-08:00

"We're" being my brother-in-law and new sister-in-law, Ben and April. I am sure there are plenty of people out there that could say the same thing, but I couldn't be happier for them. They are seriously (as far as I can tell) one of the best made couple for each other. I told April's parents, that if I could of conjured up a wife for Ben, I think I would have thought up April. They are perfect for each other and it so fun seeing him with his new wife. She is just darling and I am so glad she can now call herself a Humphrey.

Ben and April right outside of the temple doors.
The Siblings. (l-r) Emily, Ben, Phillip and John

The Humphrey clan (minus the kiddos). This picture was important to my in-laws because all of their children are now married. So, this was a picture with their family and all the spouses.
Me and Phillip taking the pic ourselves...there is only so much you can do when you are holding the camera at arms length...
Phillip and I were able to fly to Utah, with Ella in tow, and make it to their wedding on January 2, 2009. They were married in the Salt Lake Temple. It was so much fun for me to be able to go inside the Salt Lake Temple for the first time. It is such an amazing temple! It is absolutely beautiful. I can not believe what the early Saints had to go through to build something so breathtaking. I was truly amazed.

The Salt Lake Temple

I was super lucky 'cause Whit and her family were visiting Spence's family for the holiday's so they could watch little Ell-Bell while we were at the temple and taking pictures afterward. Thank you Whit and Spence!! You are lifesavers...and speaking about lifesavers...I have to thank my parents publicly for watching my boys while we were away. Not only is that a huge feat in itself, but they were both quite ill the whole time. Really we couldn't have planned it worse for them. I am so grateful that they were willing to take them even though they both felt like crawling into bed. Thank you, thank you, thank you. We wouldn't have been able to make the trip without your help.
After the ceremony we were able to go to the Lion's House for the wedding breakfast. It was so much fun! I had never been able to eat at the Lion's House before and boy was I in for a treat. The food was amazing and so yummy! We were a bit late walking in because we had to travel to get Ella, so we were saved a couple of seats with Ben, April, April's parents and my in-laws. It was so fun to get to know April's parents. They are such sweet, good people.

A picture of the mountains. Aren't they breathtaking?

After the luncheon we were able to visit one of my best friends from high school. I don't get to see her very often and so I was super excited. We decided to hang out at her house and eat some pizza for dinner. I was able to meet her little Brixton and see her oldest daughter, Ashlyn. They are both amazing little people. Her little guy is only about 6 weeks younger than Ella. He is such a mover!! I couldn't believe how quick he is. You can tell he is all boy. Her Ashlyn is such a doll, as well. Her hair is so long and beautiful and she was so sweet to Ella. We had a great time and I just wish that we lived closer. The whole while we were chatting big beautiful flakes of snow were falling. It was so beautiful. It really hasn't snowed here in Stillwater this season so I was excited to see it...little did I know that snow, a little rental don't mix...oh, and I super-steep drive. We were all ready to go home and had my verrrry tired Ella packed into the car and we couldn't get out...seriously. Phillip tried and tried. Finally after many failed attempts we called for Michelle's wonderful husband, David, to bail us out. He even had to try upwards of about 6 times. Finally, we were on our way...slowly but surely.

Me and Michelle in the snow right before we left.
A picture of Ella in our hotel room. She insisted I put on her hat and gloves. She thought she was so funny.

Our next and final stop was my grandparents home...after a tiny bit of Utah shopping (for those of you who live out of Utah but love the shopping know what I mean). It was so much fun to be able to visit my grandparents...even for a tiny bit. My Grandpa and Grandma B (as they are affectionately called by my sister's and my kids) were so welcoming and we hadn't been to their house for a few years so it was such a treat. My Grandma was able to show us parts of her newly renovated kitchen (it looks beautiful Uncle Nate!), watch a movie (of course!!...but I think Whit and I were the unfortunate two who blew out her infamous popcorn maker), and just visit. We also were there to go to church with them and see my Grandma in action in the Nursery. She went from the RS pres to the Nursery leader with my Grandpa and they are both fantastic. My Grandpa couldn't make it due to a cold that won't leave him alone. It was so much fun and they were so hospitable. I just wish that we could have stayed longer and could visit more often.

A picture of our little Ella. She loves the camera and will walk around holding it saying "cheese".

We were able to caravan down to my grandparents with Whit and Spence. We invited Ez into our car and he was super excited...this was his cheesy grin.
Grandpa B and Ella playing on the floor (isn't he a good Grandpa?!)Georgia, Ella and Ezra taking a bath at Grandma's. Mmm-mmm they love to drink dirty bath water.My Grandpa and Grandma Blanchard and Ella. I decided I had to have a picture with them and Ella...even if Ella was so tired and angry.
We then flew out bright and early the next morning (a 6:00 a.m. flight...eek) and were able to pick up our boys who we missed dearly.
The next Saturday Ben and April had an open house at the Noble Library. My mother-in-law had it decorated beautiful and can I tell you about the food?!! It was amazing!! My mother-in-law really outdid herself. There were the yummiest appetizers and desserts. Mmmm-mmmm!! My mom was able to ride down with me and my family as well, and that was fun. She is always so great to support my other family. Again, I was able to visit with April's parents and it was such a treat to be able to introduce my mom and boys to them. We had a fun night and it was great to be able to celebrate a beautiful marriage. Congrats Ben and April!! We love you!!

Cooper at Ben and April's open house

Greyson and Phillip at the Open House

Miss Ella on the run. She decided that she didn't want her picture taken that night and was being a bit of a pill. :)

My family with Ben and April after we were all ready to go home.

Merry Christmas to all and to all a Goodnight!

2009-01-10T06:28:00.001-08:00

I hope that everyone had a safe and happy New Year. I know, I know I am seriously behind...I am just getting to my Christmas post, but at least I am getting there. Right?
We had a great Christmas. We were able to celebrate it at my parent's home. They live only about 10 mins. away from me, so it was quite convenient. I am not sure how we are going to be celebrating next year, as we will be in Amarillo. So, it was nice to have the ease of celebrating with family and not the hassle of travel.

We decided that we would spend the night over at Mimi'and Grandad's house. Earlier Greyson started to cry in the car trying to figure out how Santa was going to come and visit us. How would he know where we were??? How we he get into our home w/o a fireplace (my parent's have one, so there wasn't a huge concern about Mimi's home...just ours). I helped Greyson squelch his fears about Santa w/ the proverbial "Santa always knows where we are--he's watching us, right?". It seemed to help. My poor boys (especially Greyson) seem to carry the weight of the world on their shoulders. They are always concerned about something.
We started the night with our traditional Christmas Eve FHE. My dad read part of a talk about the first Christmas, we played the chimes (love that), Cooper was able to sing a few Christmas songs along with the actions and we watched Joy to the World accompanied by Celine Dion's Oh Holy Night. It's fantastic. I love it. Here are some pics of our FHE.

Mimi lovin' on Ella

Cooper holding his mallet for the chimes.

Greyson and Phillip. We have been sick w/ oh...everything. Greyson has pink eye in his right eye.

Cutie-patootie Ella

My boys playing their chimes.

Phillip and Cooper.

Phillip helping Cooper sing some of his Christmas songs.

The Christmas Elf always comes and visits our home after FHE. He has left the kids PJ's that they can wear for Christmas morning. When we heard the doorbell ring Cooper looked at me and he was off like a bullet. I have never seen Cooper run that fast. He was out the door like that. He heard the jingling of the elf's bell and we ran into Unle Mack outside with Daisy, their dog...but no elf. Drat. Uncle Mack did get close, though.

The boys opening their Elf presents.

The kiddos in their Christmas pj's.

Here are the kids first thing Christmas morning. (note: Ella is playing with Greyson's gift...not hers)
Here are the boys with their Santa presents.

Here is Ella placed in front of her Santa gift. Poor girl didn't know what was going on. She did warm up and figured out her Santa gift. She loved it.I picked up a CTR tie in Nauvoo and gave each of the boys one and a Stripling Warrior tie tack. Cooper wanted to show us how handsome he was in his tie.Greyson is a huge OSU fan. So, we got him a couple of OSU things (this hat and an umbrella...they love umbrellas).Ella playing with her Santa toy.

Mimi helping Ella figure out a present. She didn't really get the whole open and not play with the just opened toy.

We got our family a Wii. The boys (especially Cooper) was super surprised. We were able to play with the Wii in Nauvoo and they really enjoyed it. I was for the Wii because it is interactive. I am kinda a stickler about not sitting in front of a video game and rotting away... Ella abandoned opening gifts and decided to eat a pear.Phillip was able to receive his dream phone...an iphone. He loves it. Lets just say it was a huge improvement from the previous one.

One of the morning's highlights was watching my mom open a Liz Lemon Swindle painting that she got from my dad. The painting is beautiful! She was super excited.

Ella playing with her Little People home. It was so much fun buying a "girly" gift like that.

The boys playing the Wii.

Ella playing with her toys on Christmas day in her new outfit.

Mack and Cooper setting up his Coast Guard Lego set from Santa.

Just a cute picture of Greyson on Christmas. I am actually taking a random picture trying to figure out the new camera (hot pink!) I got from Christmas!! Thanks, Honey!!

We had a wonderful Christmas. It was filled with fun, family, laughter and love and I really don't think I could've asked for anything better. It was great to be able to take a day to remember our Savior, Jesus Christ, and His birth and share it with the people I love. I hope that you were able to have as blessed of a day that we had..

Traditions, Parties and The Nativity

2008-12-30T13:55:00.000-08:00

I hope everyone had a wonderful Christmas. We definitely did. There is nothing like the Christmas spirit within a family. I love it. I will be posting about our Christmas...but not this post. I know, I know I am very tardy regarding the "Christmas post", but I have other events that came first and I got behind (me? no way!) . So, I am plugging on with the pre-Christmas festivities and hope you all can bear with me.

This Christmas season we have had ample opportunities to bring treats. W decided this year to try our hand at the ever famous Grandpa Cookies. We have dabbled in making them in the past, but this year we tried hard to make them as close as we could to Grandpa's cookies. Grandpa passed away last Christmas season and making the cookies this year was especially important to Phillip. So, making cookies we did! We had a lot of fun making them and even put our own little spin on them. They are shortbread cookies and tend to be a more adult cookie (think Sandies w/o the pecans, although my mil makes some with pecans and I l.o.v.e. them). We decided to add colored sugar to the tops before we baked them and they became more of a cookie that kids would enjoy. I have to say, they turned out well and I think Grandpa would've been proud.

Phillip, Greyson and Cooper making the dough warm before they rolled it out.The boys taking a picture break in their jammies.

The next thing on our busy plate was Cooper's class party. It was fun to see Cooper with all of his friends. He really seemed to enjoy me, Greyson and Ella there. Cooper and I signed up to bring a "sweet treat" for the party, so we brought some of the sugared Grandpa cookies. His class seemed to enjoy them.

Cooper trying to unwrap a Hershey's kiss with snow gloves on. I thought that it was a fun twist on the game.

Cooper at his desk with his goodies.

Cooper and some of his friends hamming it up for the cameras.

Ella sitting on my lap during the party.

The night of the Cooper's class partythe boys' school had a Winter Solstice Sing-Along. My children enjoy singing and music in general and wanted to go...so we did. I am glad that we did, because Cooper's grade performed a song. It was fun to see him perform.

Cooper is in the front kneeling (if you couldn't find him). If I remember correctly they are singing "Up on the Housetop" and using actions...very cute.

Cooper sitting with some of his friends during the sing-along.

Greyson after the sing-along was done and we were eating some refreshments. If I remember, this was right before some hot chocolate was spilled by my children. This has become a trend as you'll later see.

The next day was Greyson's class party. Ella and I were able to come. It was fun to see Greyson interact with his class, as well, but he tends to stay a bit closer to mom.

Greyson sitting at a table making an ornament. Note he was sitting at Graham's desk...not his own. ;)

Ella having a grand 'ol time eating a candy cane sitting in a chair that is near her size. I think she was ready for me to sign her up for Pre-K.

That night the Stillwater wards put on a Live Nativity. It had been a few years since we had had one because we were out of a building. It was very nice to have it back. I had missed it. I was asked to help the members of the cast with make-up, and so I went early. Phillip and the kids met up with me a little later and we had a great time. Not only is there a Live Nativity, but they put out Nativities from members of the ward. They display them beautifully and they usually have a children's room with things the children can play with. This year they outdid themselves. It was wonderful. There was more then ever. They had many Little People Nativity sets, dress-up, coloring pages with stickers of the Nativity and puzzles of the Nativity. It was great. So many times I have to tell my kids "no, don't touch!". So, it was really nice for them to be able to explore and learn about the true meaning of Christmas.

The kids playing with the Little People Nativities. All three of them really enjoyed it.I was able to catch Ella's smile in this one.

Cooper playing with a Mobile Nativity (how cool is that!). I had no idea they had a Nativity.

Greyson putting together a Nativity puzzle.

Ella having lots of fun in a room where she could explore!! I think I caught her playing with the Little People set...her favorite.

Cooper dressed up as a member of the Nativity...a Wise Man or Joseph, maybe? I can't remember.

Greyson dressed up as a Shepard.

After the kids had played we went to the cultural hall. They had it decorated just beautiful! They did it in hot pink and green. They aren't colors you would've expected, but it was gorgeous. The refreshments were really nice. My boys thought everything was pretty...and wanted to touch everything...especially because they had just came form a room were they could. In the middle of the tables they had mirrors with silver and pink presents on them. Cooper wanted to touch, so he did, then Grey, one touch wasn't enough so he touched again (I said no) and then Greyson had to follow suit (always). I saw it coming a mile away. White tablecloths and hot chocolate...you guessed it, spilled hot chocolate on the tablecloth. The whole thing was done so classy and here my child spilled hot chocolate... I was mortified. I tried so hard to mop it up, but there is only so much you can do with a damp paper towel. Sigh. So, with that we left...after apologizing profusely. Looking back, I am glad we went anyway...spills and all.

Ahhhh, you made it! I am so sorry it was so long, but I wanted to document it (as some of you have noticed, I am taking my posting pictures seriously in light of past events). So, I won't feel sad if you breeze over them. Thanks for sticking with me this long. The Christmas post will be on it's way...

Christmas Catch-Up

2008-12-21T18:45:00.001-08:00

As promised in the last post, I said that I had Christmas catching-up to do. We have been quite busy with the holiday season. The first of the month we were invited by my mom and Whit to the First Ward Christmas party. It was fun to kick off the season with a Christmas party. We had some fun with a dinner, Christmas carols and...Santa! The boys still are trying to figure out how come all the Santas are just "Santa's helpers". They are pretty good at detecting "frauds". Greyson, of course, was scared of Santa and Ella wouldn't let Phillip go. After all who would want to go to a huge, strange man dressed in red with a big beard??? Not me.Cooper letting Santa know what he wants for ChristmasThis is about as close as Grey would get to Santa's lapAuntie Whit and out little Ell-Bell at the party

The Daddy's helping the kiddos decorate some ornaments
Whit and Spence went to Utah for Christmas to visit his family, so we all wanted to squeeze in a visit to Chickasha to see the lights. It is seriously the best light display I have ever seen. We haven't missed a year that we have lived here. It is one of the best things about the season, for me. It was great weather to be outside. It was the night before a really big cold front moved in so it was calm and mild.
Here is a picture of my kids before we start the walk around the park

Here are all the kids sans Scarlett (she was bundled up in her momma's sling). I could hardly believe that they all looked at me all at once...Christmas miracles do exist.My boys in front of one of the displaysMy fam.Me and little Ell. We are on the bridge, which is one of my favorite displays. You get to walk under a canopy of lights...so pretty! She's just too darn cute!A rare picture of both me and Phillip. It's rare that both of are on one side of the camera together...thanks Spence!

Our next little cram-in session included making gingerbread houses before Whit left. We decided that baking the gingerbread was just too much so we opted for graham cracker houses. It was a great compromise. The kids all had fun and it was fun to see what they came up with. My bil Spence, who is an engineer, helped Ez construct quite the house. Needless to say it was very structurally sound.My little men before they decorated their housesA glimpse at the aftermathGreyson showing off his finished product Cooper showing me a piece of pull n' peel...which was part of his "genius" plan

We had a great time and it is fun to have the graham cracker houses to decorate our home. It was also fun to celebrate some family traditions with Whit and her family. With both of our moves looming closer I find I am a bit more nostalgic about the traditions.

Alright, this has been long enough. I have more to show off...but I'll break it up. Thanks for sticking with me this long. I hope you are all having a wonderful Christmas season. It is truly a special time of year.

While I've Been Away...

2008-12-14T19:13:00.000-08:00

There has been so much going on...as I am sure there has been in all of your busy lives. 'Tis the season.

Since I posted last, my family and I were able to go to historic Nauvoo. It was such a treat to visit many of the sites with my children. Cooper, especially, has always had a strong interest in Joseph Smith and it was very special to be able to walk the streets that out beloved prophet walked with my family. My boys were thrilled to see the temple and we would drive by it often as the place we stayed was quite near it. They were very excited to see the sun stone and understood that it was on the temple. We were able to pet the oxen and take a ride on the wagon pulled by them. As it was quite cold there and combine it with the "off season", we were given one-on-one treatment. It was so much fun. My boys were so excited to be able to make rope, get prairie diamond rings and a horse shoe. There was so much to do and see. We were able to spend a week there, so we could see many of the sites. I did however, learn that Ella did not share the excitement we all had going into the historic homes. She understood quite well that when we went into the homes she would not be put down. She would hoot and holler about it. The poor little sister missionaries would try to teach us through he yelling, and they generally did a wonderful job. Many of them would give us the Reader's Digest version, though. While we were there the Walker Family Reunion took place and we gathered together to have Thanksgiving dinner and a talent show. Cooper was able to have a small part in a play that my mom-in-law put on. He was super-proud of himself. I wish I could share pictures...more on that later. Also, another highlight of our trip was going to Carthage Jail. It was so neat to be able to see Cooper read the plaques that held the history of Joseph Smith. I think that we all had our testimonies strengthened on the sacrifice that our prophet endured to restore the gospel. It was such a wonderful opportunity for me, as a mother, to be surrounded by so many tangible teaching moments. It was a very special trip for me, and I am so grateful we were able to go there.

Now, for the explanation for the lack of pictures... I took many. There were fantastic, too. You know, the ones that after you take them you make a mental note that you're gonna frame them? Well, there were lots. Phillip and a colleague of his have been tinkering around with our laptop trying to put a program on it to aide Phillip in his dissertation. Thus, the lack of posts. The computer had been out of commission for a couple of weeks while the tinkering had been taking place. Long story short, they decided that the program just wasn't going to work on our computer, so they had to fix what they had done. In doing so, they had to restore the hard drive. Part of the tinkering had been to separate the hard drive into two sections and when they started to restore the computer they realized it was wiping my computer clean...all of it. It had been my understanding that my husband had been backing up our hard drive from time to time. Not so. I had at least two years of pictures on my hard drive. Needless to say, I am quite devastated. So, Nauvoo pictures, Ella's blessing, birthdays... Never has there been a time that I have been more grateful for the few pictures that I have blogged. So, let this be a lesson to you small bear, back up your hard drives. I am trying not to dwell, and am blogging my pictures and definitely backing them up!

Another huge highlight that I have been anxiously waiting to post is the next chapter in our lives.

We have accepted a position at West Texas A&M University. We couldn't be more thrilled. We actually accepted the position quite awhile ago, but wanted to make sure all the t's were crossed and all the i's dotted. We will be heading to Amarillo, Texas later this summer after Phillip graduates. Phillip and I have really felt the Lord's hand in this decision. We are excited to see what is in store for us there. A great perk to moving to Amarillo is that we will be quite close to family. Phillip's parents are about 4 1/2 hrs. away and mine will be around 5. Phillip is also going to be able to teach exactly what he loves. How neat is that?! He couldn't have written a better deal for himself. We feel extremely blessed.

In order not to bore you all to death, I think that I will break up my posts. I have a Christmas party and a trip to Chickasha to post on. That will come soon. For my sister's benefit, because I have been a horrible poster, I will put in a cute picture of my kiddos.

I took this today before church...so this is a fresh one. :) I hope you all are having a blessed season and I'll be posting soon!

Welcome, Scarlett!

2008-11-13T19:53:00.000-08:00

This post is quite tardy, but I have been wanting to write it anyway.
Sweet Scarlett Caroline made her introduction into this world on October 28th. She is my sister, Whitney and Spencer's, third baby. She is absolutely beautiful! We are all oohing and ahhing over her dark, dark hair. Between my sisters and my own kids we have 5 redheads (I know! crazy, huh!) out of 9. So, seeing a beautiful dark haired baby has been such a treat. From my point of view (you may need to talk to Whitney to get a view from the trenches) she is a good baby--a little spitty (she may have Reflux...something that is not new to us), but overall so sweet. It has been such a treat to have a newborn baby to smell and cuddle. We are so blessed to be able to have her in our family. My boys and Ella are beside themselves with excitement. They love to be able to hold her and love on her. Ella gets in such a tissy when Scarlett's around because she wants to pat her and get near her. Cooper and Greyson love to sit and hold her. It has been fun for me to see the growth in Greyson, because he will sit and hold Scarlett for much, much longer than he would just a year ago with Ella. They really love her so much and thank Heavenly Father in their prayers for sending Scarlett to our extended family.
I have posted some pictures of sweet Scarlett. They are from the first few days. Her features have become much more refined, but I just had to share the pictures I had. I am sure I will have more pictures later. Enjoy!

A Happy Halloween

2008-11-07T11:29:00.000-08:00

There are some uber-Halloween talented mommies out there (I know who you are!)...I do not fall into that category. I truly enjoy crafting...a lot (especially when there are no kids underfoot). But, Halloween costumes just do not fall into something I get all a-buzz about. This year though, was a small exception. I always enjoy seeing my kids all done up, I just don't really relish in getting to that point. I did have my sister here and was able to dress up my daughter for the first time. So, put those two things together and I got a bit crafty for Halloween. I was very pleased with the outcome...if I do say so myself. ;)

Whitney and I decided that we would dress up our daughters as fairy princesses...mmmmm, very fun. We luuuuv the really full tu-tus and decided that we would whip a couple out. It actually ended up to be quite an easy project after we figured it all out. Whitney's inspiration came from the Gymboree fairy costume and I just liked the colors I chose for Ella (she already had a black turtleneck and leggings). One thing led to another and I also ended up making a flower wreath for their heads...also easy once I figured out how to do it.

Greyson had picked out his costume forever ago at Old Navy. He loved the red dragon. I said, "okay Grey, Halloween isn't for a little while. You can't change your mind if we buy this". He said, no way! He loved it....and he did until he decided he hated the feet. They were big and poufy. Not nearly cool enough for him. We all tried to convince him that they were okay...but he was not going to be convinced. I talked to my mom about this predicament and she suggested that Cooper dresses up as a knight, Greyson the fire-breathing dragon and Ella as the fairy princess. The boys loved the idea that they were like a fairytale. That said, Greyson decided that the dragon costume was going to okay. We thought everything was okay until the night of the Trunk-or-Treat and he decided that the dragon's belly was too fat. I couldn't believe this!! What four year old has a complex on how fat his dragon belly is?!! I explained he wasn't fat--just round and Cooper explained that on Jane and Dragon (Qubo on Saturday mornings) Dragon's belly was round. Greyson decided that he could live with his poufy belly, and they all had a great time at the Trunk-or-Treat.

On Hallowen night we met up with my parents, Whit and her kiddos (Whitney's a super-hero in my book because she actually went Trick-or-Treating after having her baby 4 days earlier...we all had a lot invested in those costumes ;) and my family went around a nice neighborhood in Stillwater. Ella was just a calm as can be (she was so tired) and the boys had a lot of fun. Cooper and Greyson did think that things would have been much easier if they had rode their Gator around town. I was a bit flabbergasted at the idea. The way I see it, they are begging people for candy, they can put a little effort into the deal. After going around the neighborhood we wrapped up the night by visiting the Applegate's, which has become a family tradition. It's always fun for my boys to see Jos' Grammy and Poppa, even if Jos and Gavin aren't here.

Overall, it was fun for me to see my little fairy tale in the making...and we had a great Halloween too.

Cooper looking very "knightly".My fire-breathing Grey-Grey.
Fairy princess Ella.

My fairytale.
Mmm, aren't they cute?!

Ella Turns One

2008-11-01T19:43:00.001-07:00

Ahhhh, I have computer back. I am so sorry for the noticeable lack of posts. Life has been pretty hectic and my son (I won't name names...'cause lets just say it was probably a combined effort of the two of them) broke the power cord...no power--no computer. So, my computer use was at a minimum to say the least. Lots has been happening this month, namely the birthday of my sweet daughter. Yep, that's right Ella turned one this past Wednesday. Can you believe it?Neither can I.

It was was quite the busy day for us. We went and visited my sister down in the City at the hospital with her sweet new baby, Scarlett. I went with my mom, Whitney's two kids, Greyson and Ella. Let's just say there was a lot of kids versus adults. We got through it and had a wonderful visit seeing little Scarlett for the first time. We got back in time to get Cooper from school and run a few errands. We picked up pizza for dinner (Ella l.o.v.e.d. the pizza...a girl after my own heart;) and had family over to help celebrate. We are so blessed to be close to family here in Stillwater. My parents were able to come, Whit's kiddos (Ezra and Georgia), my little brother Mack and my mother-in-law. It was so much fun to see the love and support for my sweet Ella. We ate dinner and then Ella opened her presents. My daughter has the oddest obsession with putting everrrythiiinnnggg in her mouth. I know, I know lots of babies put things in their mouth. No. Ella will put anything and everything in her mouth. I have had two other babies and have been around plenty of others and understand that she puts more in her mouth than the norm. Ella's chocking hazard of choice is usually paper-if she can get her hands on it. So, the unwrapping of presents presented a wonderful opportunity for plenty of paper eating. She loved tearing the paper and trying to eat it. Phillip and I quickly cleaned up the wrapping as soon as she was done (every small piece). She also has an uncanny way of finding near invisible things off of the floor and eating them. I was able to indulge a bit of my girly side and get Ella a Cabbage Patch Kid (squeal). I was so excited. I found a CPK Preemie at the store and was so excited. Ella is too small for the regular sized ones and when I saw the preemie I was so happy because it's just her size. Yep, I found that they still smell like baby powder, mmmmm, I transported my right back to 1986. Ella also received some very fun Touch and Feel books from my sister and parents. Ella absolutely loves books and the Touch and Feel books are her favorite. She also got some squeaky shoes. I am very excited about them because I think they are so darn cute. I also did make sure when I got them that you can remove the squeakers when I find that the squeaking just isn't that cute anymore. :) Ella also received a beautiful handmade quilt from her Grandma Humphrey. It is absolutely beautiful. Ella loves to sit on it and look at all the bright colors. My mom-in-law put on the cutest buttons on the flowers that Ella (and the boys ;) love to look at. It is something that Ella will always cherish.

We then moved onto birthday cake. As a tradition we always let the one year old "dig" right into the cake. And boy did Ella ever do that. She loved it! My boys were going bonkers because she was destroying the much cherished frosting. She had a great time and devoured it right up. It was a great day and I am so blessed to have Ella in our family. We waited much longer for her then we had expected. There is not hardly a day that I don't remember the ache that I had in my heart for my sweet daughter and then I look at her and see her in my arms and realize what a blessing she is. She is such a ray of sunshine in my family's life. Our family wouldn't be the same without my little strawberry blond sweetie. I love you Ella, more than you will ever know.
Ella is back in a hospital room a year later (I love this cheesy smile she has. She will crinkle up her nose and to me, it is very cute)
Ella's getting the hang of rippin' the paperMmmmm, lovin' the taste of paper
Cheese, Dad!!
Oooo, luuuuv my pink cell phone and keys!

Grandma, brothers, Ella and her beautiful quilt

I loooove frosting!!

Yep, Mom gets to wash me off (lucky her ;)

It's Harvest Time!

2008-10-13T18:39:00.001-07:00

We've been all excited around here to decorate for Fall and Halloween...or should I say my boys have been super excited to decorate. It has been fun to see their excitement. On the first day of October Cooper ran into my room yelling "it's the first day of October!". He was so excited like it was Christmas Eve. It was so cute. We went to the Grider Farm Pumpkin Patch in Perkins for FHE the other week and they had a blast. We were able to pick our own pumpkins out (the pickins' were so much better than last year). After we got home they insisted that we decorate right then. They put the pumkins and such into Greyson's Gator and drove them around. I decided to take a picture because their excitement was contagious. I'll have to take a picture as soon as everything is put up. I still need to get some Mums, but when I ran to Lowe's there wasn't a great selection. So, when I get want I need I'll post the pictures. I am sure the boys will be beside themselves to take a picture with all of their hard work. :) So to everyone, my boys and I are sennding you a very Happy Harvest! The boys zoomin' around on the Gator delivering pumpkins around the yard.

The Perfect Song

2008-09-24T22:15:00.000-07:00

I know that I have not posted since the very first post on this blog, but I heard it today. I was watching Jay Leno and his musical guest was "the Plain White T's" and they did it. They have written the perfect song. You know the song that makes you tear up just hearing it. The one you only wich you would have been able to write for your wife (or husband for all the wifes reading this). Here is a youtube video with lyrics. You have got to listen to it.

Stephanie. This is my perfect song for you. I wish I would have written it, but since someone else did then maybe tonight we can sit on the couch, listen to it together and pretend it's me singing it to you.

I love you!!! MMMMMMMMMMuahhhhh

A Saturday Escape

2008-09-18T10:44:00.000-07:00

For some ugly reason Blogger and I don't have an understanding... I have been running into picture moving problems nearly every time that I have posted. I was able to move one...and then the rest refuse to move. So, as in many of my recent posts...these pictures should have been at the end. *sigh*

Greyson, Cooper, me and Ella outside of Pops after the boys had raced

Phillip and Grey (notice Grey's dinner made a home on his face)
Cooper proudly showing us his beautifully colored menu
Ella enjoying the diner and her set of yogurt bites...yum-yum!
Greyson studiously coloring his menu...isn't he focused :)
The kiddos in front of a window that displays rows and rows of pop. They all have a funny expression on their face (as their mother, I find it humorous)

With the weather being infiltrated with hurricane rain it has been quite dreary around here. Saturday we were looking for a little bit of an escape. So, on the word of a couple of

friends we decided to take a little trip to Arcadia, Ok. There is a gas station that has been rejuvenated into something very modern and very fun. On Route 66 you can find a bigger-than-life pop bottle (straw included) and more kinds of pop than you could even imagine. That is the place that we came to see. When I told Cooper before we left that we were going somewhere fun, he tried to guess. Naturally, he didn't come even close. So, he asked for a hint and I said, "a gas station!". He was aghast and said that I was not telling the truth. I giggled and said that I was very serious...and it was going to be a lot of fun. Both of the boys were not optimistic about the whole deal. When they got there they definitely sang a different tune. It was so much fun and something you would never expect to run into right off of the interstate. On one side there is a diner, that we decided to eat at, and on the other side are rows and rows of pop. We each chose a pop to try and a couple extras. There was an area outside in the back where you can stretch your legs and even eat if the weather permits. The boys decided that they needed to race the stretch of grass. I was a little worried that Cooper would slip and fall because he was only wearing flip-flops and the grass was wet from the rain. But, he was determined that he was going to race...and win. It was hilarious watching him try to run. When he finally got back to us he was still wearing his sandal...sideways. I guess you gotta give him an "A" for his gumption.
After we ate we decided that it was time to go. It was a fun little getaway, and for me, it was fun to imagine what the gas station was before it was "Pops" back when Route 66 was in it's glory days.
Oh, I have to mention that we ran into Coty and her cutie, little family. It was on her word and another friend's recommendation, so it was fun to see them. Thanks Coty and Melissa for the idea!!

The boys racing outside

Thank You, Gustav!

2008-09-11T11:58:00.000-07:00

It is an unlikely title, considering that Gustav was a hurricane and many people don't like storms, but for him, I am extremely thankful. He brought my sister and her little boys to Oklahoma. It was an extremely unexpected visit, even the day before she came I called my sister to see if there was a chance she was coming and she said it was unlikely. Then, lo and behold Gustav plays a little game of Chicken. He went east, then west and the forecasters were having a to play a little bit of a guessing game as to where exactly Gustav would hit the hardest (for that little game, I too am very grateful). Because of the little bit of uncertainty, and the Coast Guard wanting their families to be safe, they sent orders out for families where my sister lives to evacuate. So, up to Oklahoma my sis trekked (bravely, I might add) with her little munchkin boys. It was such a surprise to see them. It was a stolen week, if you will. I was able to introduce her boys to the Omniplex-every time I've been there I've thought of them and how they would love it. It was so fun. We were able to do a little bit of shopping at Target (my fav) down in the City and just enjoy each other's company. I miss her dearly and am trying to figure out how to really live today without her company. I guess, when you miss someone that much it just makes it that much better when you see them.

I have been kicking myself for not taking pictures when she was here. There were so many opportunities, I just didn't have my camera (kick, kick). So, to appease my conscience I have added a couple of pictures of my sweet little nephews from Grey's birthday last June. I love you, Lib, and your sweet little boys. Thank you for braving a 14+ hour trip to visit...and escape Gustav. Josiah, Greyson (who is eating some incredibly orange frosting), and CooperLib (who is washing off Gavin's hand), Ezra, my mom-in-law Wendy, Greyson, Cooper, Phillip and Josiah

Ella Does the Do and a New Seat, Too

2008-08-28T12:01:00.000-07:00

Once again, Blogger has let me down and stopped letting me scoot my pics to where I want them...and with one left. Soooo frustrating! So, this should have been the last pic at the bottom.

Little Ell-Bell cheesin' it. She loves it when I take her picture. She breaks into the hugest smile/giggle. I love it.

My Little Miss Ella has decided to grow up just a little bit more. Her beautiful strawberry blond hair has been getting longer and longer everyday. I am one who likes my children's hair done and Ella had left me in a bit of a quandry. Her hair isn't long enough to do any girlish hair-dos that I am accustomed to and it has grown too long to just have a curl on top and the biggest problem is that she REFUSES to have a headband on. I figured it was just a matter of time before it happened (due to the overwhelming number of mothers that had came up to me, complimented Ella on her bow and then told me that their daughters had refused to keep them on...*collective sigh*). I had thought about putting a little "spout" pony in her hair...but let's just say that her cheeks are a little too healthy for that look to work right now. So, I decided to put a little gel in her hair and curl it all over. I had forgotten how curly her hair can get with a little help. It has seemed to work and I think has turned out pretty darn cute. The only problem is that I have a drawer full of ginormous bows that she isn't wearing (and won't work with this look). Sooo, drum roll please...I get to buy even more bows. To say that I like to do this is an understatement...I l.o.v.e. buying bows. So, I headed down to the boutique in town and was able to start the purchasing of small bows (not too small, after all I AM a Holyoak ;) It has been fun watching my sweet baby turn into a nearly toddler.

Isn't she a cutie-patootie?

Showing all sides of her "new do"

Now for the next big event, Phillip and I decided to upgrade Ella's ride. My little baby has put on some weight since she was born...that's a good thing...but she has become quite the load to pack around in her carrier. About this time for each of my kids we transitioned them into the bigger car seat. My boys were pretty hard on the seat that they both had, so we chucked it when Grey outgrew it. So, we were planned on purchasing a car seat when Ella needed one . They've changed the pattern since we bought Cooper's...and as the color sensitive girl that
I am--I was pretty excited (it looks great with Ella coloring). So, mostly for my sis' benefit, I took some pics of my little girl sittin' pretty.

Spicy!

2008-08-23T18:44:00.000-07:00

I thought that I would take a quick break from the "travel logs" and post something a little fun and different. I'm not quite sure that I agree with everything that it says (mild temperament...have they met me?!) but I thought it was fun nonetheless. There is a link to do the quiz, if you want to...I would love to see how spicy you are.

You Are Basil

You are quite popular and loved by post people.
You have a mild temperament, but your style is definitely distinctive.
You are sweet, attractive, and you often smell good.

What Spice Are You?

Belated Summer Fun

2008-08-22T07:27:00.000-07:00

For some reason Blogger isn't allowing me to scoot these swimming lesson pictures down to the bottom of the post...grrrr. I'll have to edit it later... So, when you are reading this these pictures should have been last.

Greyson playing in the pool on the last day of lessons

Cooper in the deep end after he got to go down the super-fun slide

My cutie-patootie Grey

Cooper after he had jumped off the diving board

Cooper swimming underwater

"Look Mom, no life jacket!" (wahoo!)

Greyson getting ready to go down the slide

As I mentioned in the previous post- I have a lot of catching-up to do. So, I am diving in head-first.

My kids had been asking us nearly all summer to go bowling. So, after a long month of Phillip going to Tulsa M-Th 'til around 9 p.m. we decided to treat our family to an afternoon of bowling. The boys were estatic. We all had a great time and as an added bonus Ella slept through about half of it and so I had my hands free. The boys did really well...you 'gotta love bumpers. I, on the other hand, did not do so well. I decided that you really do have to practice! I finally figured some things out-like I have to roll the ball a little more to the right or else I would gutter the ball. Overall, it was a lot of fun and a nice, air conditioned break.Cutie-Coop with his toothless grinGreyson looking very excited

Greyson's own way to roll the ball down the lane

Cooper getting ready to bowlElla taking a much-needed rest

Now, the next part is a very tardy post on the boys' swim lessons. This year I did something a bit different, and I was super glad that I did. I enrolled the boys in two swim lesson sessions back-to-back. They did really well in the first session and learned even that much more in the second. I was really pleased to see how much they progressed. Greyson got to Level One and Cooper progressed to Level Two. Cooper ended up swimming like a fish and Greyson was learning to swim a bit on his own. Both of the boys had the same teacher for Level One and she was great. It was nice to have a teacher that was competant and really cared. The boys looked forward to their lessons everyday and got a cute little tan out of the whole deal, too. I, on the other hand nearly melted. With temps over 100 degrees and the heat index higher, I have never wished that I could be in a pool more. Overall, it was fun to see the boys swim and progress...even through my sweat.

I've Got You Babe

2008-08-18T17:57:00.000-07:00

I'm a bit of a blogger-looser lately. I am extremly behind on my posting, so...I'm trying to catch up bit by bit. So...here goes.

Phillip and I celebrated our eighth anniversary on August 4th. I wanted to let him know that I love him deeper today than I ever dreamed possible eight years ago. I knew I would love him more...I just didn't realize how. He is a wonderful man that supports me in everything that I do. He is an exceptional father. He has the kindest heart that I have ever seen. I was such a lucky girl to find him. He has the foundation to hold my family steady and I am eternally grateful for that. Phillip is a hard worker and is very family conscientous. I found my other half and I couldn't be luckier. Here's to eight years and so many, many more. I love you, Babe.

Me and Phillip in Branson. (this picture is at a bad angle...phillip's chin is not that big and he isn't that bald...he wanted me to add that...and it's true!)

Growing, Learning and Living

2008-08-13T16:19:00.000-07:00

Today I sent my babies...or rather my big boys, off to school. I am so very proud of both of them. Cooper, who can be a bit anxious about new situations, was such a pro. He tried to help Grey feel at ease and was such a wonderful big brother. Greyson was nervous but ended up doing really well. They are such wonderful boys and being away from them for a bit makes me even more grateful to be their mother. There really isn't many things that make my heart swell more than seeing my children waiting with excited eyes to see me after school. I love you boys, and I am so excited for you. Keep on growing, learning and living up to the wonderful princes you are.

Quirks?? Yep, I Got 'Em

2008-07-27T12:20:00.000-07:00

I (Stephanie) have been tagged! Here are the rules:
1. Link the person who tagged you...Julie(my super-cute and very trendy aunt, whom I adore)
2. Post these rules.
3. Tell about 6 unspectacular quirks of yours. (yikes!!)
4. Tag 6 fellow bloggers by linking them.

Alrighty, here goes nothun'...or everything in my case.
1. I love vacuum lines in the carpet. I know, I know, I'm a nut. It must have come from growing up in a house where we vacuumed sometimes twice a day. I haven't continued the twice a day vacuuming in my house, a bit of an overwhelming thought, but I still get all warm and fuzzy inside when I see them.

2. I need my children's hair done for my mental health. Okay, that might be an overstatement...but still nearly true. I feel like my life is in a bit more control when we all look presentable. I think they look better, too. I love their hair newly cut and done. Mmmm, makes me smile right now thinking about it.

3. I hate, hate, hate the feeling of wet cotton. Ewww, it makes me shudder. I also hate to wear nylons around the house. As long as I am wearing shoes, I'm okay, but when the shoes come off so do the nylons. I can't stand touching the ceiling of a car while I'm at it. Shudder, shudder.

4. I have a hard time finishing projects. I love starting them, but once I get going I loose intrest. The best project for me can be done in one day or...well, just ask my mother about a wooden scarecrow that has been sitting in her garage for the last two autumns.

5. I have to have the kids' and my bed made before I leave the house. Also, I need the dishes cleared into the sink (at least...into the dishwasher is best). The kitchen counters cleared or at least organized, the kitchen chair cushions put back onto the chairs (they are regularly pushed off), the living room floor picked up, the couch cushions fluffed (not have the sit-on look) and the t.v. armiore closed all before I leave. If I don't, then I hate coming home and facing it. If all of that is done I breathe a lot easier.

6. I have bad-day food. I am listing this not to make my mother feel bad ('cause I know she does about this) but because I think I'm wierd. I have this term "spaghetti in the green pot" and that means bad-day food. You know, when you make something when you don't want to cook, and the family is feeling a bit grumpy (or maybe it was just me and that was my take as a eight year old girl) and you just throw dinner together. That is my definition of "bad-day food". And so, there are just some foods that have that negative conotation. Such as, spaghetti and the sauce all mixed together (they have to be seperate for it to be "good-day" food), Sloppy Joes, and french-cut green beans (ewww). I do need to put a disclamer in here (I love you, Mom and thank you for making us dinner even when your stinky daughter groaned and complained and you probably wanted to do a million other things besides that).
Alright, well that about wraps it up. As I have thought about it, I have about a million others and I am glad that the tag only asked us to list six. If I had continued you may have wondered about my mental health. ;)

I tag: Holly, Melissa, Carrie, LeAnn, Brooke, and Melanie!

Family Home Evening Fun

2008-07-23T17:18:00.000-07:00

I have been having quite the "cooped-uped" feeling this month and this past Monday presented a wonderful excuse to get out of the house. Phillip and I decided to get out for FHE. There is this place in Stillwater called White Barn Estates...I think. I didn't know much about it, so we decided to check it out. Come to find out, it has paddle boats, putt-putt, a water-balloon area, inflatable jumpy-things, regular golf and more. It looked like a lot of fun, but a bit much for FHE. We found out that you could pay just to get into the water-balloon area, sand pit, and inflatables for 5 bucks a head. It was worth every penny. I was able to play-play with my kids and I had a blast. We all started out dry and clean and ended up sweaty and wet from the water-balloon fights. It was great. Even little Ella ended up getting wet during the water fighting. She would gasp when the water got her and then she would cheese-it. We all laughed so hard and really connected to eachother on a silly, giggly level. I think it was exactly what we all needed.
Cooper, Phillip and Ella in the water-balloon launch area.

Slip-slidin' down the inflatable obstacle course.

Phillip and Ella all wet after the playing was over.

All wet, tired and so satisfied with our fun.

Memories

2008-07-14T12:35:00.000-07:00

Here is a totally different game of tag. A good friend of mine, Holly, had this on her blog and it looks like fun!
1. As a comment on my blog, leave one memory that you and I had together. It doesn't matter if you knew us a little or a lot, anything you remember!
2. Next, re-post these instructions on your blog and see how many people leave a memory about you. It's actually pretty funny to see the responses. If you leave a memory about me, I'll assume you're playing the game and I'll come to your blog and leave one about you.

Mack Daddy

2008-06-28T06:46:00.001-07:00

My youngest brother, Mack, recently graduated from Stillwater High School and I have been so behind in my posting that I haven't gotten around to posting about it. His graduation was a wonderful accomplishment that we are all so proud of him for. Not only did Mackie (what his family affectionately calls him) earn his High School dipolma but he took a semester(+) at Meridian Tech and recieved certificate in CAD. Way to go, Mackie! He is now working full-time building fence, and what not, and working for Cold Stone Creamery (yummy) on the weekend. He is also preparing to become a full-time missionary for our church. Yay for Mackie...can ya' see I'm just a bit proud of him? ;) I recently took some pictures of Mack, and thought that I would show him off a bit. I just had to say what a cutie-patootie he is! Mackie also is such a wonderful help with my boys. They have so much fun plaing with their "Uncle Mackie". Mackie and my fam will often go to lunch or dinner just to hang-out. What a guy! What 18 yr. old likes to hang out with his older sister?? But he humors me enough to say that he does. :) We have had great talks over dinner or just at my house and I know that we won't be living close for forever so, I have come to cherish that time.

I love you, Mackie!!

You Say Good-Bye and I Say Hello!

2008-06-25T17:20:00.000-07:00

Today my baby decided he just wasn't a baby anymore. I've been recently noticing indications of that. Such as, he has decided to use the phrase "that's just a figure of speech, Mom", what?!! Where did he pick that up? And, he doen't fit the same way in my arms as he used to...he's, I guess, just gotten bigger. He's reading and likes to leave messages on the phone...I'm still nervous when I hear somebody's answering machine click on. He will go around and pick up toys and make beds...even when he's not asked and today...he lost his first tooth. Normally a person wouldn't get all misty about a tooth falling out, but it signifies to me that my little boy just isn't little anymore. He's going to go to 1st grade...I remember 1st grade. How can my little boy be going to 1st grade when I remember going like it was yesterday? So, today we say good-bye. Good-bye to a little piece of my baby and hello to a bigger and just as wonderful Cooper.
We are also saying hello to little teethies in my little Ella's mouth!! She has sprouted two on the bottom and they have fully grown in and she cut one on top and is about to cut the other. This has been fun to watch, as we haven't had a baby in our home for nearly three years. It has been so fun watching her sweet personality develop. We are all very excited to see what she looks like with all four teeth. So, if you look at the picture, you'll be able to see us saying good-bye and hello, hello, hello.

I'm in Love

2008-06-19T20:18:00.000-07:00

So. I'm in love. Yes, yes, you all say, you're in love with Phillip. Yep, you're right, I am...but that's not what I am referring to. I'm in love with a bag...a diaper bag to be exact. Wait!! Not just any diaper bag...the best diaper bag...ever! I've fallen in love with Ju Ju Be diaper bags. You can check 'em out and fall in love, too. The features are super cool, if I must say. I've been flirting with this bag. Don't ya love a good, ol' fashioned crush?

My Little Mugs

2008-06-16T19:19:00.000-07:00

Phillip pointed out that I hadn't posted pictures of my little ones lately. I have to admit, I hate posting pictures. I only have a little bit of time to myself everyday and when I finally get around to my blog, posting pictures takes me forever. I don't know why, it just does. But, I recently took my kids to the OSU Botanical Gardens to take a few pictures of them for Father's Day and to update their pictures have on my wall in an arrangement. Now, I love taking their pictures, I really do, but after this time I swore I would NEVER do it again. It was a nightmare. Cooper has come to the age where he can't figure out how to smile on cue. After me nearly pulling out my hair over is half-crooked, not really smiles, he told me that he lost his smile. I felt horrible. I explained that he didn't loose his beautiful smile (he has one of the best that I have ever seen), that it's still there, he was just trying too hard. He did eventually figure it out (horray!). Now Greyson, as opposed to Coop, didn't really care all that much. He did give it an effort...kinda...but then when he didn't care, he just didn't try. Then there was Ella. I took my kids in the evening, when there was shade. A great idea, if it isn't bedtime. Ella loudly let me know she hates grass and would much rather play with the blanket I put her on then look up and smile on cue (go figure). I looked like a three-ringed-circus out there trying to get all three of my children to actually look at me and smile all at once. A HUGE feat, I have decided. I have gone to the Botanical Garden nearly every year since Cooper was 18 mos. old and I have always walked away with some beautiful pictures. This year wasn't an exception, but I was beat and I really don't know if I can do it again. We'll see, I may have to come up with another gameplan. Well, here you go...the good, the bad and the ugly...there was quite a few more...but I thought I would spare you. ;)

Can I say, pull my hair out??!!

Ditto!!

2008-06-13T14:30:00.001-07:00

My sweet sister made her way (bravely by herself and her three boys) back to Alabama. Sad for me and my family, but a happy thing for her and her hubby. To be away from my husband for a month would be so difficult!! So....thank you Kit, I loved spending time with your family!!
I decided that Lib leaving is still too sad to post, but I had to say that we had a great time. We went to the Zoo, Leonardo's Discovery, Mack graduated, Grey had his 4th birthday (another post I have to catch up on!), the Cushing pool (love it!!), and just had a blast being together. It is so much to write, and so I decided that I would just say, DITTO!! My sis posted about it and so I thought that I would refer you to her post to get a little bit more detail. I had a great time and it was so sad to see one of my very bestest friends leave. I was talking to Lib the day after she got home and I said, it's not fair that I always have to say good-bye to one of my very best friends. Best friends are supposed to share life together, and I guess we do, mostly, just over the phone. :) Anyway, I love you Lib!
On a different note, I thought that I would share what my family and I did this morning. A soldier from Stillwater died recently and his funeral was today. He was 41 and left his wife and two sons. The community asked our church to help hold American flags while the procession drove to the cemetary. As far I understand it, the First Ward held flags at the funeral home and my ward was responsible for the flags at the cemetary. Phillip and I decided that it would be a good thing for us to do, and to help Cooper and Greyson understand what a high price that some people pay for our freedom. We went to the cemetary and Phillip and I each got a flag and later Cooper decided that he also wanted to hold his own flag. We let him, and for the most part, did a fantastic job. It really made an impact on me when I saw the procession drive by and the casket covered with the American flag. I am truly proud to be an American, I know it sounds cliche, but I really am. I am grateful that I live in a country that allows me all of the freedoms and luxeries that I enjoy. I am especially grateful for the men and women that fight for that freedom and the very high price that they and their families pay. So, especially in light of today's events, thank you to anyone that helps me and my family live the life that I get to enjoy, thank you.

Gotta Love This!!

2008-05-17T20:44:00.000-07:00

I LOVE this link www.lineuponlinecards.com and thought I would share...enjoy!

I'm Still Alive...I Promise!!

2008-05-17T20:10:00.000-07:00

After feeling incredibly guilty for not posting and checking the blogs (that I truly love to read!) I thought that I would quickly post.
My sister is here from Alabama and I am trying to spend every moment I can with her. It's like I try to get as much time with her when I can so that when she isn't here it isn't so painful. So, I'm still here and I'm still alive, I promise. If I haven't posted on your blog, I'll catch up when I get a second. Stick with me, I'll be back soon. :)

The Reason for the Snuffy Sniffles

2008-04-25T18:22:00.000-07:00

As you might remember, Cooper had a severe allergic reaction in March. We went to our ped. and got a referral for both of our boys to go to the Asthma and Allergic Clinic in OKC. Well, after the long month wait, our appointments finally arrived. Early on Monday we trekked to the City and my boys were tested for allergies and to see if their asthma was in check. My eyes were truly opened to see what they are allergic to. I really thought that we would walk out of there with little or no allergies...boy was I wrong.
First, our doctor talked to us about the boys' histories and Cooper went and took a breathing test. They had him blow in a tube with a mouth piece hooked up to a computer and blow out candles on the screen. Then they gave him a breathing treatment and waited ten mins. to see if his lung capacity improved. While we were waiting Greyson was able to get his scratch test done. If you are unfamiliar with the whole process, they take their arm and write numbers and letters on their arm (to tell them what the allergen is) and then next to the symbols they "scratch" or prick their arm...not even prick, but dot their arm with a point that has a allergen on it. They wait for about fifteen mins. to see if there is a reaction. If there is, you will see what appears to be a welt or hive, if not, there is no reaction and they are not allergic. Poor little Grey's arm popped up with quite a few hives. He wanted to scratch, but you can't, it would spread the allergen. So, you had to blow on it. About this time Cooper and I walked in after his breathing test. Not wonderful timing. Cooper's eyes got as big as saucers 'cause he knew it was his turn next. Poor Cooper has had a couple bad experiences with needles and now it's a mind game with him. After the the skin test is given the child gets to go to a closet and pick out a prize, and Grey did. He chose a shiny, new sand pail and shovel. We showed this to Cooper and there was a pretty strong lure of the new prize, but as soon as the nurse walked in with the test the tide definitely changed. Cooper has thrown a GIANT fit over a shot before and this was quite the repeat performance. Long story short, Phillip and I ended up pinning him down and the nurse quickly administered the test. My poor boy ended up singing, "just say ow, say it now, just say ow and it's over". It's a song off of "Bear and the Big Blue House". He did admit that the test didn't even hurt, though. What did hurt and cause discomfort was the allergens. When the test came back it showed that Cooper and Greyson are allergic to nearly all environmental allergens. Yep, grass, tree pollen, mold, dust, weeds, cat, dog and horse. So, in the next year or two Cooper will need to get an allergy shot and they are currently on Zantac, Nasonex and need to clean out their sinuses everyday. We went and got the boys Hypo-Allergenic pillows, because we were told we spend nearly 1/3 of our lives in our beds, zippered pillow cases and are bathing the boys every night. If you bath at night, you wash out the pollen and allergens that are on your skin and in your hair. I am very grateful though, that their allergens are environmental and not food.
As far as the asthma goes, I am pretty much in top of it. The only suggestion that was given, was that I might need to give the boys Albutural fifteen minutes before they exercise. We also asked about Ella. She has been diagnosed with asthma as well, and allergies and asthma usually go hand-in-hand. We were told that we could come back with her maybe in a year, but no rush. So, we'll just wait and see for our little princess.
One last thing...I have to give MAJOR props to the Asthma and Allergy Clinic. They were so wonderful and kid friendly. Our doctor was so very, very sweet and warm. She was very patient with my children and kept telling me I had wonderful precious children...even when they weren't acting that way. I am thoroughly pleased and grateful with our experience there.
Life is good, a little changed, but good. I am grateful that we were able to go to the clinic and get them tested. I had an incling that they had allergies, but really no idea. So, I am glad that I am able to give relief to my little men. We will go back in about three months, so...I'll keep you posted.

Tender Mercies

2008-04-18T19:12:00.001-07:00

My sweet sis posted about thing she loves and I have wanted to do it too. So, here goes.

I love...

When my laundry is all done and put away.
When my kids are in bed and it is quiet time for me and Phillip.
Watching my kids play nicely.
My favorite song coming on the radio.
Green buds on the trees.
Getting a card or letter in the mail from a loved one.
Having my kids tell me they love me w/o me telling them first.
Having my boys say "okay, Mom" when I ask them to do something.
Holding my children for the first time.
Watching my children sleep. They look beautiful.
A freshly vacuumed floor.
My sisters visiting.
Coming off the airplane and being greeted by my loved ones.
Tulips.
Sitting down to make cards.
Sleeping in.
My boys telling me "that's your song, Mom!".
My husband telling me I am the most beautiful woman to him.
Fridays, I love the anticipation of the weekend.
Listening to my boys sing.
The way a baby smells.
Roadtrips.
Necklaces my boys make me.
Being sealed forever to my family.
When my children smile and laugh.
Hearing Cooper read.
Watcing Greyson maticulously put things away.
Watching Ella discover things for the first time.
Shopping-especially with my mom and sisters.
Holding hands.
Hearing Phillip's voice.
Taking my kids to the pool.
Feeling my babies kick for the first time.
Going to the beach.
Laughing until my sides hurt.
Phone calls from loved ones.
The crinkle at the edge of Phillip's eyes.
Me and my family all dressed up for church.
Watching my boys in the Primary Program.
Christmas and traditions.
Wet slobbery kisses from my kids and my nieces and nephew

This is just a few, there are so many more. I am grateful for the many tender mercies my Heavenly Father has bestowed upon me.

Names, Names, Names!

2008-04-14T18:40:00.000-07:00

After a fantastically fabulously fun week in Alabama helping my sweet sis celebrate her birhtday I'm back home and finally posting. I thought that I would start back into the swing of things with a couple of tags.

A friend of mine posted this on her blog and I thought it was hilarious, so I wanted to do it. So here goes.

My rock star name (first pet and current car):
Tanna Trailblazer

My gangsta name (favorite candy bar and favorite cookie):
Twix Peanut Butter

My detective name (favorite color and favorite animal):
Pink Dog

My Star Wars name (first three letters of last name and first two letters of first name then the word "of" then a medication you are on):
Humst-of-Ibuprofin

My superhero name (2nd favorite color and favorite drink with "The" in front):
The Green Daiquiri
My Nascar name (first names of your grandfathers):
Monte Gilbert

My "lover" name (name of your favorite perfume/cologne and your favorite candy):
Romance Peachies

Witness-protection name (mother's and father's middle names):
Jo Reed

Another friend of mine posted a tag that I thought was really fun. I am not sure if I'm the "Stephanie" she was referring to, but I thought I would do it anyway because it was neat. :) It is a name tag where you explain why you named your kids the way you did.

Cooper Davis Humphrey

Naming my children is one of the neatest and most fun things that I have ever done. I poured over names while I was pregnant, and as with all my other children, the names that I have chosen almost literally jump off the page at me and scream "this is it!!". Cooper's name was one of those names. When I saw his name it struck me quite hard because his name is my grandmother's maiden name. Evidentally, from stories my parents have shared, I had a strong relationship with my grandmother's mother before I came to earth. So, the name Cooper had a strong tie to my grandmother and her mother. Not wanting to decide so quickly, we kept the name of Corbin in the back of our mind as well. But, ultimately we had to go with the name "Cooper". His middle name is a mix between my great-great grandfather's last name and a last name on Phillip's side if the family.

Greyson Reed Humphrey

I love, love, love the name Greyson. When I saw it I just knew I had to use the name. I couldn't quite decide whether or not to spell is with an "e" or and "a". We finally decided on the "e" because I felt it looked more masculine. I just liked the way it looked. I also liked the nick-name "Grey". So, it was a perfect fit for out second son. His middle name carries much signaficance for me as well, as this is my father's middle name. My dad has always taught his children that there is a lot in a name. When my last name was Holyoak he taught me that wherever I went, so did my last name and whatever I did my name was attached to that action. So, when we decided on Reed it was to honor my father and to help carry on his tradition with his middle name.

Ella Grace Humphrey

We were sooo excited to be blessed with our daughter. Not only was she our first girl, but more importantly we waited for her. She has been a joy to us since we first learned we were pregnant. We decided on her name quite quickly, as well. Ella is just a beautiful name and my boys loved it. I mentioned a different name later in my pregnancy and they wouldn't hear it. Cooper and Greyson would even play pretend with their babies and they would be named "Ella" and "Georgia" (my niece's name). We all fell in love with the name. Ella's middle name, Grace, is a beautiful name, as well. I just love it. It also carries family significance because it is Phillip's grandmother's name. She was a beautiful woman both inside and out and I was happy to be able to let my daughter carry on her legacy. She passed before I met Phillip, but I am excited for the time that I will be able to greet the woman that shares a name with my daughter.

I would love to laugh-out-loud with your funny names and learn why you named your babies the names you did. So, tag!! You're it!

Firsts

2008-04-02T20:08:00.000-07:00

I thought that I would post about my little Grey. Often I lump Cooper and Greyson together. Because I do that, Greyson has been able to experience a lot of things earlier than Coop did. Sooo, hence the title of this post...I decided to write about Greyson's recent firsts.

I enrolled both of my boys in soccer through the YMCA and Greyson was able to play his first game on Tuesday. He was so scared. He loves to play and kick the ball at home, but around a bunch of rowdy and loud kids he just doesn't feel comfortable breaking his way into the group and taking control of the ball. I was a little surprised at this reaction at the game, but really I shouldn't have been. Greyson is a crazy boy at home, but just like his older brother, is quite uncomfortable in unfamiliar situations. He was uncertian about what exactly he should do (even though we took him to practice) and when he figured it out...sort of...he just didn't want to get into the game. He was well supported. Me, my mom, my brother, Phillip, and Cooper were all in attendance cheering him on, but he just decided watching was best. I have been encouraging him off and on since the game, reminding him that soccer is fun, and he would have fun "going and getting that ball". We'll see how the next game goes on Saturday. That said, we let him know that we are proud of him for trying new things even though he was scared.

Phillip helping Greyson feel comfortable before the game during the kids' warm-up/practice.

Grey during the game.

Another first that Greyson experienced was going to the dentist. Again, an unfamiliar situation and again the same reaction. Cooper went before him and was a total superstar. He even got x-rays done and he did just great. I was very grateful for Cooper's reaction because he often sets the tone for Greyson's. So, when it was Greyson's turn to get into the dentist's chair he was nervous, but he did it and he got a blue (his fav color) toothbrush to boot! All-in-all I was quite proud of both of my boys.
Last, but not least, we enrolled Greyson in Pre-K today. Another first for my little guy. He has been attending preschool a couple days a week for a couple hours...but this is public school...five days a week...we're in the big leagues!! He is super excited as he believes that he should be as old, if not older than Cooper, and he is constatly reminding me (and Cooper) that. So, if Cooper is going to school then naturally Greyson believes that he should too. It was a little difficult for Grey to comprehend what "enrolling" was, though. I told him what we were doing and he believed that Pre-K was today. I let him know that we were just signing papers for him to go and he would attend when Summer was over, I think he finally got, but we'll see. Sometimes, especially when we are driving in the car, he will start talking about something that I thought we cleared up, and I will have to re-explain said topic...again. :)
Good job, Little Man, Momma is proud of you. Keep on growing and learning and of course I love you.

Sweet Home Alabama

2008-03-31T20:22:00.000-07:00

Ahhh, finally a post. Sorry for the blogging hiadus. My family and I have been sick and then a trip to Alabama and well, life. So, here is an update on our fantastic, fabulously fun trip to "Sweet Home Alabama".
Phillip and I decided to drive down to the deep South to Alabama where my sweet sister, Liberty and her family live for Spring Break. We went there last year and had an absolute blast and decided we wanted a repeat performance...and boy did we get one. We left early on Thursday the 13th of March...there were some bumps in the road...called health. Phillip (who NEVER gets sick) was throwing up and had a fever, was a trooper and drove and little Grey had a fever and had just gotten over the ickies...then Ella started with a fever. So we were the Sick Patrol coming to spread our germs all over Alabama. Nice. Don't worry, I had made sure with my sister that it was alright that we came-health issues and all. In fact, while we were there we picked up a lovely case of the pink eye--sickness just comes with family. We finally made it 14 hours later and we were so grateful to be there.

We started the next day with a celebration. My 28th birthday!! I got some really fun things and money to spend!! Yay!! I love SHOPPING!! We really took the day easy and let the kids play in Lib fantastic backyard. Kit then treated us all to an out-of-this-world cheesecake that he made from scratch. It really was incredible. Thanks, Kit!

We took the weekend easy went to the park and attended their Stake Conference. It was wonderful attending an actual church house as we have been out of ours for three years. It makes you grateful for pews.

Mommy and Ella at the Park

Grey and Ella...hmmm, could they be siblings??

Coop and Grey having fun at the park...gotta love that warm southern weather!

Little Gunner at the park. Isn't he beautiful?!!

We started our week at the beach at Daupin Island. It is so beautiful there. The beach is so white and the water is gorgeous. It was a little chilly...not too chilly for the kids to swim. You couldn't have caught me in that water...brrr! We enjoyed a picnic on the sand. The only problem that we did encounter was that Ella had a hard time breathing. It was very windy and the the wind swept her breath away. We put her in the stroller to cut down the wind. The boys had a total blast.

Josiah, Cooper and Greyson enjoying lunch on the beach.

Cooper feeding the seagulls. The birds would hover above him and catch the food he would throw them in the air.

The next day we took the family to a favorite-Blu Rabbit's Paridise. It is a pizza/playland. The boys have a great time...there was the occasion we had to pull them off the walls. They were literally climbing the walls. Funny.

Greyson enjoying lunch at Blu Rabbit's Paridise!!

Greyson and Cooper outside of Blu Rabbit.

We took a day trip over to Peniscola, Florida. It was so much fun. We went to McGuire's Irish Pub and Grill. They have over 1/2 amillion dollars hanging from the ceiling and stapled to the walls. We had to remind the boys that taking the money would be stealing...it was so tempting to them. You could literally reach up and grab it. The whole atmoshpere was neat. They even have bean soup dor 18 cents! The food was way yummy, too. Huge, huge burgers. Here's the family at McGuire's...Phillip's taking the picture

Here is the dollar that is currently hanging at McGuire's..."Humphrey Applegate Spring Break 2008"

We then went to the Naval Base to go to the Navy Airspase Museum. Can I say super neat...and free?!! Yay! There were planes and jets hanging from the ceiling. Models all over, if you ever have a chance to go...go!! My boys loved it.

Cooper and Greyson in the cockpit of a jet. They totally loved it.

Greyson and Cooper on a fighter guns from WWII. They had an actual flight deck off of an aircraft carrier. That was especialy neat for me to see because my Grandpa Holyoak served in the Navy and shot guns similar to these.

On Thursday we went to Tanger Outlet...yay for birthday shopping. It was great. The guys took the older boys while Lib and I shopped. It was quite relaxing and a wonderful break. Thanks, Daddies!!! On Friday, the day before we left, we decided to have a pre-Easter egg hunt. Lib and I filled plastic eggs with candy and hid them around the house. The boys had so much fun finding and eating the candy. You gotta love loot that you can eat!

Auntie Libby helping Greyson find an egg that was hid in her hurricane vase.

Cooper searching for Easter eggs. We used Wal Mart bags...classy, we know! :)

Gavin showing me his "loot"!

The boys after their hunt.

After their hunt, dinner and baths we let the boys decorate eggs for that coming Sunday's hunt. We took home 36 eggs. The two older boys were really into it and it was so fun to bring them home to MiMi to see.

Cooper showing off one of his favorite eggs.

Josiah dying eggs. Gotta love those jamies!!

After we tucked the boys into bed the adults had dinner. It was so yummy and a first for me. Kit prepared California Rolls (never had them!), spring roll and a fruit salad. It was all so wonderful. Kit really has a talent for cooking. We ate and savored the last few hours of our vacation. All in all it was so fantastic. We would do it all again...and we probably will. Thank you Applegate's for your hospitality and love. We miss you!!

Sesame Street Live...nearly

2008-03-06T20:36:00.000-08:00

Well, we were off to "Sesame Street Live" tonight. We gave the boys tickets for Christmas and then they moved the date 'till tonight. So, it has been long wait.
We were nearly to Guthrie when Cooper started itching his face. Actually, a side note before I get too far...Cooper came home from school today w/ a bit of a fever and headache. So, I gave him some Tylanol and Motrin to kick it so he could enjoy the night.
Anyway, we were off and nearly to Guthrie when Cooper started to itch. His throat and face were itching and he was rubbing his face. Then he decided that his mouth was itching. I told Cooper, which I now really regret, that your mouth (his gums) can't itch. We pulled over in Guthrie to get Subways and I ran it to grab them. When I came out Phillip was on the phone w/ my dad getting his advice on Cooper...whose lips were now nearly 2-3 times their normal size and his eyes were swollen w/ hives. I nearly lost it. I couldn't believe my eyes. More poor little boy was so swollen. The only thing we could figure could have caused this was the Tylanol and Motrin, but we are still unsure what caused the reaction. Phillip quickly got off the phone to let me know what happened. I guess while I was in Subway Cooper quickly started to swell. Phillip and I decided that we needed to rush Cooper to te nearest ER. So, we headed a bit more down south to Edmond. We checked him into Edmond Memorial Hospital and they took him back shortly. They were all great w/ my kids. Thankfully, Phillip had packed the Leapster and LeapPad. It was very helpful for Greyson who wanted to "explore" the ER...not a great idea. Shortly after Cooper was admitted they told us that Cooper would need a IV to get Epi meds right in him. If you know Cooper....he HATES needles. He freaks. Well, I tried to prep Cooper and let him know what was going to happen and he decided to crawl the walls and freak out. Thankfully, the nurse calmed him down and he actually did quite well. It was so sad though, they had to stick him a couple of times, but he really did fantastically...considering. After all the meds they gave him , his swelling finally came down a bit, which was the direction they were looking for. The whole time we were waiting the boys were watching the clock hoping to get to "Elmo". There really was no way. So, Phillip was on the phone trying to get the tickets moved to tomorrow. Long story short, no luck. So, we will either have to purchase the tickets...again, at a higher price or wait until they come back around. Jury is still out on that one.
Anyway, when they were finally checking us out, the nurse gave me the prescriptions and was letting me know what to do. She said with Coop's reaction we probably needed to take him to an alergist to see what caused his reaction. (sound familiar, Whit?) She also told us with the severity of reaction I probably needed to carry an Epi pen. I was surprised at that. So, I guess the next step will be to get a referral to an allergist from his ped. Then we will go from there.
Cooper is doing fine now, we are extremely grateful for that. "Elmo Live" here we come....almost. Maybe next time.

Happy 8th!

2008-02-29T19:30:00.000-08:00

Happy Eighth, Honey! Phillip and I went on our first date eight years ago today. For our date Phillip took me to El Vacerio in Stillwater and then onto a church dance in Norman. It began a whirlwind week followed by our marriage five months later. We just clicked. Our relationship began so easily and naturally and has continued so. We truly love spending time with eachother and would choose to spend most of our time together.
We were talking over dinner about our "anniversary" and thinking back, little did we know what that date would begin. We had no idea that eight years later we would have three beautiful children and have traveled the road we have taken. I wouldn't have traded the ups and downs for anything. I am excited for the next eight years and the many, many years to follow. I love you, Phillip and am forever grateful to be your wife.