Mack Daddy

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!

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

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

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!!

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!!

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

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

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

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

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!

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

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

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

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!

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.

My Little Reader

I just had to post this... Cooper is reading to his little brother for the first time. I was even smart enough to capture it on the camera! Yay!! I am so pround of my little guy. Cooper has become quite the little reader lately. We will be driving along and he will read signs and tell us what they say. He is doing just great. I was so excited to see him reading to Greyson that I nearly burst. I guess I have fond memories of being read to and then in turn reading to my little brothers and sisters. It was a pretty neat thing for a mom to see.

The Sound of Music

Well, we are actually owners of our very own piano. No, I am not that accomplished as a pianist and neither is Phillip, but we have high hopes for our children...who doesn't though. :) The piano fell into our laps and we were fortunate to have the opportunity to purchase it. We came by it because a family in the first ward was downsizing and decided that the piano was one of the things that had to go. Phillip, my dad, brother, and brother-in-law moved the piano, and I had the pleasure of figuring out where it belonged in my home. I invited my mother over and we got to rearranging. (I am not sure what I am going to do w/o her when I move...plane ticket, anyone?) The end result makes me smile inside. I love it. I remembered that I had some things that I had purchased at Affair of the Heart (my favorite craft show). My mother and I decorated using those things and others that I purchased at the most recent Affair of the Heart. I ended up decorating more things than the piano..."when you give a mouse a cookie", type thing. But, like I said, I love it. Here are some pictures to show you the end result.

The last few pictures are to show those who have been to my home where I moved things around to. I wanted to show my sis the picture of the plaque...I bought it at Affair of the Heart and it is hanging above the door going into the laundry room.

Happy Belated Valentine's Day!

I totally stole this idea off of Whit's blog. I thought it'd be fabulous to do for my Valentine's Day post. I know, I know very belated, but I think it is wonderful to have a day you express to others that you love and appreciate them in your life. I hope that you all had a great Valentine's Day and for all of those that I love and I didn't see, I am sending you my love.

What is your husbands name? Phillip
How long have you been together? We've been married for 7 and a half years
How long did you date? 5 mos.--when it's right, it's right
Who eats more? Phillip, but I can hold my own ;)
Who said I love you first? Phillip, but I followed a tiny bit later
Who is taller? Phillip. I'm 5'3 and he's 5'9
Who has more speeding tickets? Phillip, I usually get off, but I haven't gotten pulled over in a long time and really Phillip has only had a few. Funny, Phillip's a driver's ed teacher on the side and actually we really wouldn't know right know if we were going to get a speeding ticket 'cause our spedometer is on the fritz...we gotta get that fixed.
Who is more sensitive? Actually, I could say it's a toss-up. Phillip and I are both pretty sensitive about some same and some different things.
When there is a fight, who usually wins? Ohh, I guess probably me. I have a strong stance that I'm always right ;). Phillip will put his foot down on somethings, though.
Who does the laundry? Both. Sometimes I start it, sometimes Phillip does, I usually keep it going, Phillip usually folds and I usually put away.
Who does the dishes? Usually me, but Phillip is great on trying to get them cleared up in the morning before I wake up.
Who sleeps on the right? Me (if you're looking up from the foot of the bed)
Who pays the bills? Definetly Phillip, I tried at the beginning and still would help out, but Phillip has a system
Who mows the lawn? Phillip, but I've wheeled the riding lawn mower around :)
Who cooks dinner? Too many cooks in the kitchen isn't applicable in my kitchen. We love Joseppi's cooks, Texas Road House cook's... j/k. We both cook, it just depends. I can cook easy enough if Phillip can help with an idea. I hate coming up with an idea.
Who drives when you are together? Phillip, but I'm a darn good back seat driver :)
Who is more stubborn? Me. Hands down. However, like I said, when Phillip really wants something he usually gets his way.
Who kissed whom first? Phillip kissed me. You were cold right, Honey???
Who asked out who first? Phillip asked me out. Later I asked Phillip how he found out my phone# and he said that he looked "beautiful" up in the phone book. A cheesy line that I still love to think about...
Who proposed? Phillip
Who has more siblings? I do. I have 2 brothers and 2 sister and Phillip has 2 brothers and 1 sister.

Sickies

There is actually a good reason for my long absence...my family and I have all been sickies. There has been the creepin' crud going around well, pretty much everywhere. I overheard one lady at the doctor's said that a school class of 30 something was down to 15 or 18...I don't remember exactly, but it was low. I guess we're just passing whatever it is all around. Everyone in my family is antibiotics, except for Phillip. That is pretty much how it works in our family, though.
Well, the very sick weekend started on Valentine's Day. I was feeling pretty crummy and Ella had been coming down with a cough for the last couple of days. As the day progressed I kept getting worse and by the evening I was really feelling it. Phillip and I exchanged gifts for V Day and then we all ate a heart-shaped pizza and we put the boys to bed. I was getting pretty sick feeling all achy and especially the right side of my body was hurting. I also had a horrific headache, which may I add, all of this is riding on the tails of the flu and a pretty icky cold that I had a couple weeks ago and the cold has been hanging around. Mine and Ella's health went downhill from there while Phillip and I tried to watch "No Reservations" (cute, by the way). Then the movie was followed by one of the very worst night sleep and it just got worse. I spent the next day very sick in bed worried that both Ella and I had pnmonia and the flu. Phillip invited my dad over to give us a blessing to help our bodies feel better, he also offered some advice how to couple my motrin and tylanol to kick my headache (it did help that evening) then he took the boys back to my parent's home because they were pretty stir-crazy. When they got back, my dad sat down with Phillip and myself (I was looking pretty horrific, may I add) and extended a call to me. This setting would only happen when your dad is in the Stake Pres. :) I guess the Stillwater Stake was reorganizing the Stake Primary Presidency and I was asked to be the 2nd counsler. Yikes!! I couldn't even believe it. Stake callings mean you train the leaders. I still can't believe it. I accepted the call and was sustained this past Sunday at Stake Conference.
Anyway, Ella and my condition deteriated that next day, so Phillip took us to the doctors. Long story, short...Ella has an infection (her white blood cell count was up). The doctor thought that it might be the start of pnmonia and so she was perscribed the ZPack and she was given a shot of antibiotics, as well. I was diagnosed with Bronchitis and a sinis infection. I really don't think that I have been that sick before...or as long as I can remember. The infection was giving me fevers and chills, nausia and vomiting and big time headaches and body aches. My lungs also felt like I had been running really hard and were burning when I would breathe. Well, we took our medicine and then Sunday things were really looking up. We didn't venture to Stake Conference, so I found out from family who I am serving with. I will be set apart this Wed. We are still trying to recover, so far so good. It's amazing how good you feel when you've been so sick. I'll be mighty happy when the cold and flu season are over. Phillip will too, I am sure, who has been Mommy, Daddy, nurse and pretty much Superman.

"Throwed Rolls", Blue Rabbits and "Beads Please!"

So, I just returned from one of the funnest trips I have ever taken. I was able to go down to the deep-South (Mobile, AL) and visit my sweet sis, Lib, and her cutie, little boys. I went down with a crew...Greyson and Ella, my mom and my other sister, Whitney and her two chillin', Ezra and Georgia. We had so much fun, but the children were sometimes a handful. I must admit, though, it could've been much worse. We put the children through the wringer...i.e. we did some great shopping. :) Lib actually lives in a great place, she lives a little out of downtown Mobile, so you don't feel like it is big-city, and yet she has access to a lot of shopping. About an hour away is a Tanger Outlet (fabulous!). I hit the sales right-on. I bought some fantastic things for my kids, especially Cooper, for next year and this coming Summer. I am way excited. There is also a second-hand store that is a must visit...who can turn down clothes for pennies?!!
Liberty also has a great backyard. It is fenced-in with a covered patio. We bundled up the kids in jackets and their hats and they were off to the great outdoors. It was wonderful. They played all sorts of things. Some of their favorites were "Bob the Builder" (they take odd pieces of lumber and "build" with them and use play hammers, etc. and bang w/them...a young boy's heaven), they also would dig at some sand w/ sand toys and plastic spoons. They would come in with dirty knees, but very satisfied.

Josiah and Greyson having "cousin time" on the couch.

Jos holding a "squiggily" Ella. :)

Ezra and Gavin wanted to be by Ella...so cute!

Georgia loves to climb up onto the swing and give her cousin, Ella, "loves".

A high point of the trip, for me, was all the talking. It was wonderful!! We would put the kids to bed, and start just talking. We talked about current events and just caught-up with eachother. It will be some of my favorite memories. I learned that my sister is a left wing liberal (j/k!! ;) and just fun odds and ends that come from discussing. It was great.

Cutie little Georgia hanging out with the "girls".

We were able to go to Lambert's home of the "throwed" rolls. If any of you ever get a chance to go...go! It is so much fun. It is down-home cookin' and you get the opportunity to actually catch(!) your rolls...which are quite fabulous. I took a pictures of my nephew, Ezra, taking a bite of his roll which was nearly the size of his 2 yr. old head. We then headed outside and they were able to play with the wooden train that was build right outside of the restaurant for kids to play on. It was a beautiful day and perfect for exploring on a train.Gavin and Greyson playing on the train with their Lambert balloons.

(above) Jos, Grey and Lib having fun on the Lambert train.

We were also there to celebrate Whitney's birthday. Happy birthday, Whit! It was very fun to be together to celebrate and to shop for her birthday. She is such a skinny, little thing it is very fun to dress her. :)

Another one of my favorite things that we did was go to a Mardi Gras parade. Can I say...FUN?!! I have never been, and so I was excited that Mardi Gras was being celebrated while we were down there. People will actually camp-out in downtown Mobile in campers for Mardi Gras. We went to Daphne, which is a town on the other side of the Bay. We were hoping to avoid some crowds, which we did, so it was great. It wasn't too cold and so we all could have fun. If you have never been to a Mardi Gras parade (we went to a family-friendly one) you wave your hands at the people in the parade and yell "Beads!!"...or in my nephew's case "Beads, please! Beads, please!". The masked people will throw beads, stuffed animals, candy, Moon Pies and of course, BEADS!! It was so much fun. You have to be careful, though. They toss beads in your direction and they can land anywhere. So, you needed to watch out for your head. :) There were fantastic floats and great Cajun music. The people will also decorate their homes and buisnesses for Mardi Gras. It was very fun and festive. It would be an annual favorite for me if I lived down there. Phillip is jealous and wants to go down next year...you don't have to twist my arm. :)

Greyson all bundled-up for the Mardi Gras parade.

Mommy and Ella all cozy waiting for the parade to start.

All the kids lined up waiting...and waiting for the parade. It was worth the wait!

Beads, please!

I can't forget to mention one of the highlights for Greyson...Blue Rabbit Paradise. It is similar to Chucky Cheeses, but w/o all the games and grime. :) All the cousins climbed and crawled up onto a huge castle. It was a lot of fun for them. They also serve up pizza, which was interesting. Our little cook dumped the pizza on the table and served us less-than-perfect pineapple. We were understanding, but did get a fresh pizza. Again, it was great to just be together and talk while the kids were playing. I am planning on going back to the Blue Rabbit with Cooper when we visit during Spring Break (yay!)!

Thank you, Lib for the wonderful time. It was one of my very favorite trips. I loved being together with all my sisters and mom. It was fabulous and cozy....it will be something I will always treasure.

My boys are wearing housecoats that I got a super-duper deal at Children's Place outlet.