5 Little Monkeys

Cute things

2010-12-28T14:15:00.000-08:00

Right now Macy is so darling, I can hardly stand it. I need to write a few things down so I don't forget.

My absolute favorite is when she wears "polkie pots", instead of polka dots.

She also can't pronounce her l's, like Cooper. She will be the next one to say "my yeyo bayoon is in the yiving room".

She is also definitely in her terrible two's, the tantrums are quite the show.

Her favorite songs are Twinkle Twinkle, 5 little Monkeys, and Dynamite by Taio Cruz. We listen to that over, and over, and over again...

Macy

2009-08-03T10:48:00.001-07:00

I can't believe you are almost one. Where has this year gone? You are trying to walk already, and we will catch you standing here & there. I can't believe it. I thought you were weaning yourself, which was breaking my heart, but we seem to have gotten back to normal on our trip to Pinetop. You never pushed me away once, I was very happy. You still aren't sleeping very well, and you still need a lot of attention. I am worried what is going to happen when it is just you and me in a few weeks. You can say hi now, and I have to get it on tape, because you have the sweetest voice I have ever heard. I adore it. It is one of my favorite things about you right now. I love you sweet baby girl, I won't be able to call you that much longer.

Macy's new tricks

2009-05-18T13:14:00.000-07:00

How cute is she?

Macy

2009-04-22T09:11:00.001-07:00

You are starting to move around a lot. Not crawling,
but rolling & scooching when you are not throwing a fit
because you are on the ground. You love to find things on the
floor and put them in your mouth. This particular morning
you put your hand under the couch and found a blue gumball
from Easter. Luckily I happened to glance down soon after,
and got it out before you choked. You thought it was so funny!
We had to get a picture of your blue tongue!

You also had your first taste of Red Vines. I had to get dinner going,
and I knew it would keep you occupied & happy. I also
planned it with daddy coming home so he could clean you
up because I KNEW you would be filthy. You sure loved it though!

Sisters

2009-04-13T10:28:00.001-07:00

I loved watching these 2 sit and watch the rain out the front door. Macy was enthralled, but I love how she kept looking up at her big sister. What sweet girls I have!

Macy

2009-04-09T09:28:00.000-07:00

Your smile melts my heart, It is this little crooked thing, and it is darling! You are on the verge of crawling, so I am in panic mode now about getting our house in order for a mobile baby. You are going to be one of those babies that puts everything she finds, directly in her mouth. Not good when you have a house full of marbles, legos, polly pockets, change, etc... It is going to take a lot of work to get our house baby proofed again.

You are starting to sleep better, I wouldn't call it a definite pattern yet, but I think you are headed there. I hope, I hope, I hope, I hope.

You get so excited when everyone gets home. Mondays are your hardest day, and I realize it is because you have had a whole weekend with everyone at home, then it is just you and me. I think you get lonely. Poor baby, everyone just loves you so much! I hear you now, so I have to get going. I love you!

Chloe

2009-04-09T09:24:00.000-07:00

This morning you woke up with Macy and played with her for me. It helped me so much, those extra few minutes of sleep are priceless!

I know you are worried about the changes coming up in your life, you are growing up. Things are going to get harder, but they are going to be better in so many ways also. You are going to have more freedom, more opportunities to work & make money. To do things with friends. You are also going to have more responsibility, so I hope you are ready.

You are so good, and I am so proud of you. I know we argue a lot, and I have a feeling it will only get worse. Just remember that I will always love you, no matter what. It's the attitude, and the bad choices I don't love.

You are so excited for girl's camp. I don't know what I am gonna do with you gone for that long. I'm gonna miss you. I wish I could be there with you, camp is so much fun. I LOVED girls camp, I looked forward to it every year. I hope you enjoy it just as much! Keep up the goodwork, and remember I love you!

Cooper

2009-04-09T09:19:00.000-07:00

Last night we went to the Easter Pageant at the Temple. You were very interested in it. You truly believed for a while that it was the real Jesus on stage because he was glowing. It was so fun listening to you try to convince me "See mom, he just healed that person. Mom, that guy was dead, now he's alive." I finally got you to understand what was happening, then you were enthralled with trying to figure out how he was going to be on the cross since it wasn't real "I bet they are going to use that silver tape, and it will probably just be ketchup instead of blood." At one point someone said God, and you leaned over and asked me why Heavenly Father named his son a bad word. I explained that God wasn't a bad word, but when people use it by saying Oh My god, it is like saying a bad word because it is disrespectful. I think you understood.

You came home from school yesterday, and were so excited about a lesson you did on the smartboard. I love those days when you come home happy. I hope you enjoy school more next year when you are a kinder. I know you would rather be home with me, and I would rather you be here also, but this is your job right now. I look forward to when you get home sweet boy, you bring me so much happiness.

Andy

2009-04-09T09:14:00.000-07:00

You are so amazing with Macy. She adores you, and you adore her. The whole time I was pregnant, I imagined Chloe would be my biggest help, I had no idea how much I would come to depend on you. You get up with her most mornings, and let me sleep. It may only last 10 minutes, sometimes she is happy for 30 minutes, before you hand her off to me. It means so much to me.

You have so much goodness inside of you, and you amaze me daily with the things you do. Then you get angry about something, and you change completely. I am struggling so much, I want to know how to help you. It breaks my heart when you have those days. How can I help you? I keep begging Heavenly Father to enlighten me with what needs to be done. I don't want you to be unhappy, and I want to do what's right. I hope someday we can look back on this, and be happy in knowing we did the right things for you. You are such a good boy, so for now I am just going to focus on the good htings, and hope we figure it out along the way!

Buffy

2009-04-09T09:11:00.000-07:00

You have had a loose tooth for almost a month now. It wasn't quite loose enough to pull, but it needed to come out. It started turning grey, like the other tooth you lost, so we knew it was dead. The other night you came to us in tears because it was hurting. Dad decided it had to come out. You held my hand, as he yanked, and pulled, and pushed, and twisted for almost 15 minutes, with little breaks in between. My heart ached for you as tears ran down your face, but you kept holding on, and being the brave Buffy I know. It finally came out, and you instantly started giggling. The tooth fairy left you $2 for that one, and you deserved it!

Bikes

2009-04-07T11:06:00.000-07:00

I am both sad & happy to say that Buffy & Andy learned to ride bikes this weekend. Sad that it took us this many years to just do it, happy that they both learned so quickly. Here's a few videos!

Buffy's Baptism

2009-03-01T18:51:00.000-08:00

Uncle Jimmy, Johnny & Tyler

Aunt Holly

Dallin, Emma, Cooper, Joey, Sarah, David
Austin, Gracie, Buffy, Andy
Caleb, Chloe, Macy, Mikaela, Bella

You had such a great baptism. We spent the last couple weeks planning, and thinking about what you wanted. You decided on all the songs, speakers, everyone that participated. Johnny gave the opening prayer, Aunt Holly gave a talk, Uncle Tyler gave a talk, Jimmy said the closing prayer, and Cooper worked super hard to memorize the 4th Article of Faith.

Afterwards we went to Grandma's, and you had so much fun. Mimi brought Emma & Gracie, and even Sophie came. I am so proud of you for making this wonderful decision. Keep following the recipe honey, and you will definitely live with Heavenly father again!

Today you gave a talk in primary, and you did fantastic. What a big girl you have become, before I know it, it will be a different white dress you are wearing! I love you so much!

Pancakes

2009-02-24T14:49:00.001-08:00

Your first pancakes, and you LOVED them.
You were such a mess afterwards, but it
was worth it to watch you gobble them up!

8 is great

2009-02-24T14:19:00.001-08:00

You are getting so excited for your baptism on Saturday. I am so proud of you for choosing the right, you are such a good girl. You look beautiful in your dress, I can't believe you are 8. I miss my little Buffy. You have always been a momma's girl, you were such a sweet baby. It seems like yesterday, and now you are such a big girl! I know you are going to continue to make right choices, and I know the Lord is going to bless you and our family. You are such a joy to us, and all those around you! Thanks for being such a great example to your little brother & sister, and for trying to be a peacekeeper most of the time. I love you!

Lizard baby

2009-02-24T14:13:00.000-08:00

You are so silly, your tongue is ALWAYS out. Even when your bink is in your mouth, sometimes the tip of your tongue sticks out the bottom. Your dad and I laugh about it all the time. We love your smile so much, it lights up the room. You still only want me, you little stink! At night you just cry and whine unless I am holding you. I think you are hurting your dad's feelings goofy girl! Sleeping is getting a little bit better, you still wake up 2 or 3 times a night, but you go back to sleep after I feed you instead of staying up for a while. You are much happier in the car now also, which is wonderful!

Another great one!

2009-01-22T12:09:00.000-08:00

(Newport 2006)

Andy never ceases to amaze me with the things he says, I think that is why I keep him around! The other day he was complaining about how tired he was from PE, of course Jon and I weren't giving him sympathy. He still needed to take the trash out, so when dad told him to do it he replied "If my legs pop off in the next 2 minutes, you're gonna feel really bad!" You're right Andy, we would feel really bad, but I am pretty sure it will all work out ok!

Let's make a deal!

2009-01-22T12:05:00.001-08:00

Ok lady, here's how it's gonna work...

You are either going to:

A - Start sleeping through the night again, or....

B - Start being happier during the day so I can actually accomplish the things I need to instead of sitting on the Lazy Boy all day feeding you.

It's up to you, I will go along with either choice. Make up your mind soon, PLEASE!!!

Funny

2009-01-15T21:19:00.001-08:00

(old picture, but I LOVE it!)

Last Saturday, after what you considered a long day of chores (in actuality it had been about 45 minutes, and you hardly did anything) you were not in a very good mood. As I sent you to your room, you said to me "Now I know it's true, you and dad get up in the middle of the night to make plans on how you can make my day horrible!" I almost wet my pants I was laughing so hard. I hope someday you realize how good you've got it.

Macy's happiness

2009-01-15T21:15:00.001-08:00

If we want Macy to be happy, she has to be in my arms. You are such a momma's girl. You will not take your eyes off me when I am in the room. If daddy is holding you and he walks out of the room I am in, you flip out, but stop instantly as soon as you see me. I can't figure out why you love me so much! I love it, but dang if my arms aren't getting tired!

Letters to Santa

2009-01-15T21:08:00.000-08:00

We sent them off, and the coolest thing was that you guys got letters back from Santa. We weren't expecting that, and you were sure it was CW & Amy that wrote the letters, until I showed you the postmark from the North Pole. Very Cool!

Secret Santa '08

2009-01-15T21:01:00.000-08:00

Andy had Dad

Chloe had Mom

Cooper had Chloe
(one of my all time favorite pictures!
Chloe looks gorgeous, and Coop is darling!)

Mom had Andy

Jon had Buffy

Buffy had Cooper

This year I made everyone say at least one of the things they did for their person. It really helped the kids be more aware of doing actual service. It was a success again, and I am loving this tradition we started.

Smooth

2009-01-15T20:24:00.000-08:00

How can you not love this kid?

Grandma Ro gave you this shaving kit for Christmas, and you took a bath everyday for at least a week, so you could shave. It was so cute! I had to get a video.

Weekend of Firsts

2009-01-04T17:44:00.000-08:00

Your new pucker

You started a lot of new things this weekend. You discovered your feet while you were sitting in your bumbo. You started motorboating (blowing spit bubbles, with sound). You started puckering your lips. We introduced you to applesauce, and I think you like it! You also started splashing in your bath, it was darling.

Unfortunately you are not sleeping through the night anymore, in fact you wake up at about 3:30 and stay up for a couple hours. Needless to say I am not thrilled. I hope you get back to normal soon!

Chloe

2008-11-10T09:49:00.001-08:00

I think you enjoyed yourself. Your attitude was a little less than pleasant at times, but all in all you did good. You were happy to be able to leave and go off on your own sometimes. You loved all the big rides. I think you died and went to Heaven when you got to see the Jonas Brothers. I was so glad that happened for you! I can't wait to go back again with you guys!

Andy

2008-11-10T09:26:00.001-08:00

On the Matterhorn

You had such a great time. I was so proud of you, you did so many rides. You LOVED Matterhorn, you probably did it 10 times. You had so much fun with your cousins. I was so happy when you got picked for Jedi Training, that was huge for you. You really liked Big Thunder. Even though you liked the big rides, you always had to make sure dad or I was sitting with you. Although you hated sitting with me on Big Thunder, because the lap bar didn't go far enough down on you since we shared. You were certain you were going to fly out of it!

Cooper

2008-11-10T09:21:00.000-08:00

Cooper was an absolute stud at Disneyland! You went on every ride that you could, including Tower of Terror. You did Space 2 or 3 times, Matterhorn, Big Thunder, Splash Mountain, Star Tours. I think your favorite was Pinocchio. You loved the parades, especially Pixar. The face painting is a very long story, you'll have to ask me about it sometime. You just came in and told me that you wish we were still at Disneyland, me too buddy, me too!

Your poor little heart was broken when you weren't picked for Jedi training, I was so sad for you. You cried for almost 20 minutes. I think you still had a great time though. Maybe next time!

Buffy

2008-11-10T09:19:00.000-08:00

Buffy & I in Pirates

Outside of pirates,
me and my girls...

In front of the Pixar Parade

Having fu with glow sticks

She wanted a picture on this bench so bad...

Buffy had so much fun. She went on Matterhorn, Space Mountain, Splash Mountain, Pirates, and Haunted Mansion (a lot more also). She only did Space Mountain once, but I was so proud of her for doing it. She was so patient, and she had to wait around a lot while other people did big rides. She was always happy, and didn't even fuss on the 2 days where she went back to the hotel to rest. Friday night she and I stayed late to watch the fireworks, so I went and got her Hot Cocoa(her favorite). She got tired, and knew she would not be able t stay awake, so we left before it started. The last night I was determined to see Fantasmic, and the Fireworks. I wanted her to see Tinkerbell fly so bad. Things were not going well, and I decided to take Andy, Buffy & Macy back to the Hotel. As we were making our way through the crowds on main street, we turned just in time to see her fly. She was so excited, and at that moment, it was like time stood still for us. Nothing that had went wrong mattered, I was in tears, and so happy for her to see it while she is still at that magical age. It made my trip, and I was teary eyed the whole way home.

Buffy

2008-10-27T09:31:00.000-07:00

I just had to put this picture of you, you are so beautiful!

Macy

2008-10-27T09:30:00.001-07:00

Sweet girl, we are so excited. You pooped 4 different times this weekend, all on your own. I hope it continues, and your body and brain are finally working together. Look at how darling you are!

Andy

2008-10-27T09:29:00.001-07:00

Andy grabbed Cooper's pants by mistake on Sunday morning. I was laughing so hard. The sad thing is that they totally fit him around the waist!

Hitting your groove

2008-10-20T13:05:00.000-07:00

I think you have finally turned the corner. Things seem to be going much more smoothly now. You still can't poop on your own, actually you did last night while Uncle Tyler was holding you. I was so happy. You eat so much better, and are a lot happier. You still sleep fabulously at night, which makes things great!

I love your little smile, it is making an appearance more and more each day. You are also starting to use your voice a little. You make the sweetest noises ever.

Unfortunately I can't eat chocolate without it wreaking havoc on our lives the next day. I am sorry, but I just ate a snack sized snicker. I hope you will forgive me.

Andy turns 10

2008-10-13T10:16:00.000-07:00

(Sarah, Chloe,
Sarah, Haydn, Declan, Arick,
Buffy, Chloe, Andy, Cooper, Emma)

You had a great time with just your closest friends at the park. It was freezing, but you guys didn't mind a bit! It was so funny, when Dorothy asked you what you wanted for your birthday, you said "Anything with instructions." That is so you, you love to build and put things together. I love you so much! Happy Birthday!!!

Ears

2008-10-10T12:25:00.002-07:00

You finally got your ears pierced. You were so nervous, but so determined. I was so proud of you, you didn't cry or anything! You look so pretty, and you have been so grown up about taking care of them and cleaning 3 times a day. I can't believe how much you are growing up. I can't wait to go buy you cute earrings when you can finally change them!

Camera time

2008-10-10T12:25:00.001-07:00

Apparently you got a hold of the camera, because when I went to upload the pics I took, I found these on it also. You are such a goofball!

On a sidenote, you have been absolutely amazing with Macy. You adore her, and you haven't been jealous at all. Having her as made you grow up all of the sudden. You have been great with bedtime, showers, school and all sorts of things lately. I am so thankful, and I am so proud!

Thoughts...

2008-10-10T12:24:00.003-07:00

I don't think you are looking forward to going back to school. I hope you do well this year. I am nervous about your new teacher, I hope he is normal. I will get to meet him on Thursday, and I just pray he is a normal guy that you will like.

You are really getting excited about the baby. I think you are just so excited about being a big brother. I hope it won't be too hard on you, it will be a big adjustment, not having me all to yourself anymore, you won't be the baby anymore. Hopefully you will deal with the transition well.

You are still having a hard time with primary, I don't think you are very fond of your teachers, and on top of that they are not always there, so there is a lot of inconsistency. Every Sunday, when the closing song starts in Sacrament, so do your tears. It is getting really hard, and really old. You usually end up going and having a great time, it just takes 15 - 20 minutes of cuddling, and coercing to get you in. I hope it changes soon, I don't know how i will be able to do that with a newborn also.

7/29/08

Something right...

2008-10-10T12:24:00.001-07:00

A few Sundays ago, you spotted a boy in church who you haven't seen in months. You excitedly leaned over to me and said "Mom, Daniel is here, can I go say hi to him?" I said sure, and didn't think anything of it. You talked to him for a while before you came back. Later in Young Women's, Sis. Udall came up to me to tell me how amazing you were. I was not sure what she was talking about until she told me about how you explained how much you missed seeing him at Scouts every week, and that you were so happy he was there today. Then you told him about all the upcoming scout activities, and told him how much the scouts needed him to come.

I wanted to cry. You can be so amazing at times, and it is times like that where i think maybe I am doing something right. It totally reminded me of something your grandpa would have done. He was so amazing at making everyone feel welcome, and important. He was amazing at doing missionary work, even though he never got to serve a mission. I was unbelievably proud of you that day, and I know he was also!

7/29/08

A letter

2008-10-10T12:23:00.001-07:00

Buffy,

You are so ready for your sister to be here. I am so excited to see you interact with her, and I know she is going to love you.

Sunday at grandma's we had blueberries and strawberries over shortcake. You of course only wanted strawberries. Uncle Jimmy made you a deal that if you ate a blueberry you could go grocery shopping with him and Audrey the next day, you quickly gobbled one up. Yesterday you were up at the crack of dawn, ready and waiting. Jimmy finally called and said it would be around lunchtime. You have so much fun with Audrey, especially when it is just you. I think Jimmy secretly likes having special time with you also. You are just the sweetest girl there is!

I think you are excited about school starting again, I know you aren't excited about the work, and boring stuff, but you are excited about seeing all of your friends again. I have a feeling it's going to be a good year for you, I know you are super happy about not being a 1st grader anymore, at least now there will be a group of kids younger than you in your class.

I love you!
Mom

7/29/08

Sweet girl

2008-10-10T12:22:00.002-07:00

You are at that point in primary, where you really wish you were in YW's already. The worst thing is that most Sunday's, you are the only girl that shows up. I know it gets lonely, and boring, but I am proud of you for chugging through, and for not fighting me about church.

There is one girl who has become inactive, that you have grown up with. You have been so concerned with her, and it amazes me how much you worry about her. The other day you wrote her a letter to let her know how much you missed seeing her, and to let her know you loved her. I was so proud of you. That is the best way to get people to come back, you don't have to push, just keep loving them and someday it will sink in hopefully. Thank you for being so amazing, and being such a great example to me. You will be in YW's before you know it, and even though you don't believe me, you will miss primary a little.

7/29/08

Too cute...

2008-10-10T12:22:00.001-07:00

Last night I told you to take your shirt off, so you could get your jammies on.

This was your response, with your eyes closed in exasperation, and hands moving like an italian, "Mom I just can't afford to." I was rolling.

Yesterday you learned the survival float in swim lessons, last night when you swam with daddy he asked to see it. You told him you are only allowed to do it if you are sinking, or hurt in the ocean (that was the rules at the pool), it was so cute!

A letter

2008-10-10T12:21:00.003-07:00

Chloe,

I just have to say what a huge help you have been to me this last week. School is out, and I am having a tough time with the pregnancy, so I am having to count on you for a lot of things. You have done so much laundry this week. You have been pretty good most of the time too, I notice that you are really trying to work on your attitude, and I appreciate it more than you can imagine! You are such a joy to me, and you mean so much to me. I am so proud of you, and the choices you make. I am thankful for all you are willing to do for me. You are going to be so amazing with your new sister, I can't wait! Thanks for being my Chloe, and always remember how much I love you!

Mom

6/8/08

Fish Boy

2008-10-10T12:21:00.001-07:00

You have been so timid about swimming. Dad and I keep trying to remind you how much fun you had swimming last year, but you have not believed us. Well it has all changed. A week of swim lessons, and just swimming for fun, and you are back to being a fish. Yesterday you had a blast in the pool without the floaties, just swimming away. I am so glad you've got your confidence back! We are going to have a fun summer, and we are going to spend a lot of time in the pool, so this is perfect timing!

6/8/08

The Mom in you

2008-10-10T12:20:00.003-07:00

So last night I got into bed surprisingly early, like 8:30. I turned on Law & Order, and apparently fell asleep soon after. I woke up when I felt something, and realized that you had come in, and were turning off the tv. You had put my clothes that were on top of the bed away, and was trying to get the remote out of my grip. You are so darling, such a little mom. As I woke up, you looked at me and just told me to go back to sleep. I love you so much, I honestly do not deserve such an amazing daughter.

1/30/08

Things I love...

2008-10-10T12:20:00.001-07:00

I love how much you want to be with me.

I love how you rub my belly, and are so excited for your sister's arrival.

I love how sensitive you are. Last night I was watching "You've got Mail," at the end when she finds out it's him, and they kiss, I looked over at you and you had a huge smile on your face. You said it was your favorite part, mine too. I love that happy ending.

I love spending time with you.

I love how you need snuggle time every day with me.

I love that I get a million hugs and kisses from you a day.

I love you!!!

6/8/08

My helper

2008-10-10T12:19:00.001-07:00

The other night we were doing chores. You saw how stressed out I was about what a mess our house was, I asked dad to get just a few things accomplished, so I could be a little more comfortable the next day. A little while later, you were in the kitchen swiffering. No one asked you to do it, but you spent a half hour, scrubbing, getting our floor clean. It meant so much to me. I just want to make sure you know how much I love you, and appreciate you! You are such a sweet boy!

6/8/08

Holiday Concert

2008-10-10T12:18:00.002-07:00

You had your holiday concert last night. You had a solo during Good King Wencelas. You did so great, I was so proud of you. You look great in that red shirt, like a little man!

12/21/07

A bunch of pictures from the last month or so...

2008-10-10T12:18:00.001-07:00

Rachel, you, Emily, Rosario,
Lyric & Andrra

Cutie pie!

You & Salem waiting for the
Nutcracker to start

Buffy & Mrs. Siciliano

Such a sweetie

12/21/07

Pictures

2008-10-10T12:17:00.001-07:00

You and me waiting to get inside
of Symphony Hall for the Nutcracker

The gingerbread cookie you decorated

You & Mrs. Easton

Miss Bonny loved the apron
you picked out for her!

Cooper the red nosed reindeer

12/20/07

Sweet

2008-10-10T12:16:00.003-07:00

Last night, I tucked you in, sang to you, and headed off to my room. You kept coming in, I kept trying to get you to go to bed. You broke down in tears, you told me how much you missed me during the day, and you only have mornings and nights with me, and that just wasn't enough time. I know how you feel honey, sometimes it isn't enough time. I really miss you during the days. Monday you had a stomach ache and stayed home. I enjoyed having some Buffy time without anyone else around. I think you did too.

I am so glad you love me so much, and that it is so important to you that we have time together to snuggle and just be with each other. I know this will not last forever, so I am taking it while I can. I promise we will have some more special you/me time soon.

12/6/07

Prayer

2008-10-10T12:16:00.001-07:00

Andy, I have to let you know how proud I am of you. You are such an amazing boy, and I am really so lucky to have you in my life. One thing I really want you to know, and I am writing this so I never forget. You are amazing at saying prayers. You are so thoughtful, and really try to think of things that need to be prayed for. You are always so thankful to your Heavenly Father for all of your blessings. You pray like an old man at General Conference already. You are going to grow up to be such an amazing man someday. I can't imagine all the joy you are going to bring to me. Such amazing things for us to look forward to!

12/6/07

Thoughts...

2008-10-10T12:15:00.003-07:00

You have been fighting me a lot about school lately. You keep telling me that everyone is mean to you, and you don't have any friends. My heart is breaking for you. I can't imagine anyone not liking you, you are the most darling, lovable, sweet girl there is. I am praying or you, and I know things will get better!

I got permission from you to be a chaperone for the Nutcracker Fieldtrip. How many mothers have to get permission? You were hesitant, because if I go, then you can't be in Lisa & Salem's group. What a pill, I promise I won't embarrass you. I might even surprise you, you might actually enjoy having me there! I love how independent you are, that is going to be a fabulous thing for you someday!

11/27/07

Something funny

2008-10-10T12:15:00.001-07:00

Last night I was having a rough time, I was very sad, and very nervous about some changes that are going on in our lives right now. I was in my room crying, and before I knew it all of you kids were there with me trying to cheer me up. I was talking to you, and telling you how much i want to be a good mom, and trying to express how much I love you all. After all this, this is what you said " Mom, I know you are trying to be the best mom, and you are almost there."

Nice...

I guess I have a lot of room for improvement in your eyes! I love you sweet girl, and I totally know what you meant!

My heart melted...

2008-10-10T12:14:00.003-07:00

Yesterday I was sitting on the couch reading scriptures, and you were in your room playing Gamecube. You came running out, and asked if you could call Joey. I dialed and handed you the phone, secretly praying you weren't going to ask him to come over. When he got on the phone, you covered your mouth (I guess it was supposed to be a secret), and said "Joey, do you want to be best friends? Like on sonic heroes?" I wanted to cry, it was the sweetest, cutest thing ever. I don't think Joey enswered you, but he sure would be lucky to be your best friend!

On a side note, I forgot ot mention when we were at your celebration of life, you get to answer questions about yourself...favorite color, favorite food, etc... She asked you your favorite song, and you said You are my Sunshine. You call that "our song", every night you ask me to sing you our song. Oh I wish you could have been lucky enough to have your grandpa sing you that song, but I am thankful you have me!

11/24/07

A Letter to Coop

2008-10-10T12:14:00.001-07:00

Coopie,

I have to tell you how much I love you. Years from now you can ask me about the difficult things I have been dealing with this week. But for now, I just want you to know that you have been a huge help to me. Things are so much better because of you. Just having you near me makes me happy, and keeps me calm. I love you more than you could ever know. Thank you so much for choosing me to be your mom. My life would not be complete without you!

Challenge

2008-10-10T12:13:00.001-07:00

You and I have agreed on a challenge. We are going to see who can finish the Book of Mormon first. If you do, I have to take you to your favorite restaurant MuShu's, if i win, well I haven't decided what i want yet. I think this is a good challenge, you need a boost, and so do I, a major kick in the pants to do what we should.

You got your own e-mail address this week. Kind of freaky. You are just getting way too old. I have it set up so you can only get messages from people I approve, so hopefully that will keep all the sickos away.

You are working so hard at school, but you are getting very spacey about things. I am noticing you are more worried about your clothes, and accessories, and nails, then making sure you have brushed your teeth, or have your homework done, or have done your chores. I am really struggling with this, and I hope we can meet in the middle very soon, before I have to kill you!

Anyhow, those are just a few things going on. I really need to get better at updating these blogs for my babies! Oh well, I guess it is better than nothing!

11/14/07

Tooth be told

2008-10-10T12:12:00.002-07:00

So your sweet little grey tooth is finally loose. I know you have been very self conscious about it, so you are so happy to be losing it. Unfortunately, it has now become infected. We have a very nice man in our ward, Brother Lee, who is a dentist. We spoke to him on Sunday, and after church he showed up at our house with antibiotics for you to take. We also have a man who works at a dentist office, and he got you an appointment. Anytime we mention the word dentist, your eyes tear up. I know you are scared, but you have to go. Daddy is picking you up early today, and we have decided it would be smart not to say anything until you get there. Kind of like when I take you all to get flu shots, I never tell you until the nurse shows up with the syringes. I know you will be brave, and I will be there for you. Now I just hope your other tooth falls out, so you can sing "All I want for Christmas is my 2 front teeth." Yea right, I guess a mom can dream!

11/14/07

Tidbits

2008-10-10T12:12:00.001-07:00

Today was Cooper's celebration of life. I went and got you out of art to come, and I kept telling oyu if you didn't want to miss art, Cooper would understand. You said" Mom, this is really important, it only happens like once a year. I can got to Art twice a week." Way to have your priorities straight!

You are going over for a sleepover on Friday with Haydn. He is like your best friend. You, him, Chloe and Emma are like the 4 musketeers. I am so glad you have a good group of friends, that you have fun with, and that love you! You are very excited about the sleepover, you want to pack already. I hope you do well. I am sure you will, you made it just fine at Roman's the other night.

You are still just loving Scouts. I am so proud of you, I am so glad you love it and want to participate in it! We have our primary program coming up, and you have to give a little talk about the restoration of the Priesthood. You know it all, I am so proud of you. I guess you really do listen in church, even though it never looks like it!

We have been working really hard to read scriptures as a family. You are so funny, you actually remind me of me when i was little. I loved reading, and I would read super fast at the end of the verse and go right into the next one so my dad wouldn't tell me my turn is over. Last night, I had to stop for a second to get Cooper and Buffy to calm down, and you just started reading. You didn't want to have to wait for me. I hope this enthusiasm lasts forever!

The Caretaker

2008-10-10T12:11:00.002-07:00

You and I have been fighting all morning, and I really needed to think of something positive.

Then I dropped you off at school. You get Cooper out of the car, you walk right over to Jimmy's car to get Joey (who is crying). You take his hand, and talk so sweetly to him. Then they follow you over to the table where you sign them in. You were kneeling down, and Coop & Joe were right next to you, you were all the same size.

They both look up to you so much. I am so proud of you, and for your willingness to help me and Jimmy out in the mornings. I know you would have more fun chatting with your friends, or just doing something cooler, yet you don't complain to me about having to sit with the preschoolers in the cafeteria.

I love you so much, and I am so grateful that I was able to sit back and watch you today. I know we fight a lot, and I probably push you too hard, but it is only because I know all that you can be. You are an amazing young woman, and I want you to reach your full potential.

Keep being Chloe, and remember how much I love you!

11/04/07

Thoughts & Pictures

2008-10-10T12:11:00.001-07:00

You weren't having very much fun at your cousin Tommy's
1st birthday. We were trying to get a group shot, and you
just wanted to sit there on your own and mope.

You were so proud of the pumpkin you decorated
at Andy's b-day party. It was so fun helping you, but seeing
how you knew exactly what you wanted.

I can't get enough of you in this costume.
You call it Jacksman Sparrow, and I adore it!

This week has been a hard week. You have had a bit of a cold, but Saturday night after the ward party you got so much worse. After a miserable night with you, we took you to the ER on Sunday morning. I was afraid you had pneumonia or something, but they think you were just having an asthma attack, which has never happened before. So they gave you a bunch of steroids, and then you had to do an hour long breathing treatment, which you did not like very much. It was a hard day, but I am so glad we took you and got it cleared up. I have kept you home from school the past 2 days, just to make sure it doesn't act up again, because I really don't want you to miss Halloween and your birthday.

I forgot how hard it is to have you at home all day, you are terribly bored, and starting to drive me a little nuts! We went and got your favorite tuna fish for lunch today, then we went to buy a new camera. You got very angry with me in the store when I didn't buy you your own camera. You are a pill.

We are going bowling for your party this weekend, you wanted Goofy Golf or Amazing Jakes, but they were so expensive, so I just made an executive decision and decided bowling. Hopefully once everyone gets there, you will be so excited you won't care. We shall see!

10/30/07

Recap...

2008-10-10T12:10:00.001-07:00

So you started school this month. The first 2 weeks were rocky, you were miserable in the morning, and every night you would tell me you didn't want to go back. But once you got there every day you really enjoyed it. This week it has finally agreed with you, and you have been great about going . You are doing so well, you are loving your lessons, and having fun meeting new friends, although you very rarely remember anyone's names... I am glad you are enjoying it, but I miss you terribly while you are gone. I don't like eating lunch alone, but I'm getting used to all my other alone time.

9/24/07

Cutie Pie!

2008-10-10T12:09:00.000-07:00

Today you and Andy had a field trip to the Mesa Southwest Museum. I went with Andy's class because he didn't have enough chaperones, but I said that you were able to come with me if you wanted. You were going to, until you got put into Lisa's group with Adina & Salem. No way were you gonna walk around with me. You are so funny! You sat in the back of the bus, and I loved watching you interact with your friends. You are so much fun!

YOu are really doing well in school, I am anxious to go to your parent-teacher conference tomorrow, and learn about all you are accomplishing. You get so shy around me, you act like you can't even read, weirdo!

You are also very adamant about your clothes and hair now. I pretty much have no say, and you always look like a ragamuffin, so it is driving me a little nuts. I hope this phase passes very soon!

9/19/07

Southwest Museum

2008-10-10T12:08:00.000-07:00

Doing hard time!

You really liked panning for gold,
you would have stayed there all day!

You, Chloe, Emma & Carlos

Peek-A-Boo!

I wen twith you on a fieldtrip today. I love having one-on-one time with you. I love seeing you as the 3rd grader this year, the one kids look up to. You are doing really well this year, and I am so glad. I can't wait to do more with you!

9/19/07

Buffy & Dad

2008-10-10T12:07:00.002-07:00

I just thought this was the most darling picture. You love your daddy!

9/9/07

funnies

2008-10-10T12:07:00.001-07:00

Just now as you were getting dressed, you said to me
"Mom, great choice! I really like these shorts."
It was so stinking cute, I adore you way too much!

Today you told me you loved me far,far,far,far,far,far,far,far,far,far,far away as Magic Mountain. I don't think I could love you anymore.

I was protecting your chicken nuggets from Prince, and you told me that I was the best mom ever. Thanks sweetie!

Governor

2008-10-10T12:06:00.003-07:00

You decided to run for class governor this week. I heard about it for the 1st time on Wednesday, and you were already thinking about dropping out because you didn't want to run against Brennan. I talked you into staying in the race, and explained it's not that big of a deal if you win or lose, because you will both do a great job. Last night you wrote your speech for today, you wouldn't let dad or me read it. You were really concerned because the kid who won last year told jokes in his speech. You stayed up last night and made a ton of "Vote for Chloe" posters. I hope it all turns out well for you. I love seeing this side of you, it reminds me of the good things you have inherited from me, not all the crabbiness and bossiness, and into everyone else's business stuff.

You have totally become hooked on reading all of the sudden, I love it. I bought you 2 Nancy Drew box sets, and you devoured them. You have read 3 or 4 books already this week. Reading is such a wonderful habit, and you will grow to be so smart, and know so many things because of it.

You have also become quite aware of your outfits and looks, I am totally noticing your accessorizing every morning. Necklaces, earrings, bracelets, the right shoes, a purse, and even cool shades (usually borrowed from me). You are changing so much, it is so fun to watch, but it is also freaking me out just a bit.

8/24/07

Picture time

2008-10-10T12:06:00.001-07:00

You and Cooper got ahold of my camera today, these are a few of the pics you took.

Do you???

2008-10-10T12:05:00.001-07:00

(Photo courtesy of Buffy)

Tonight you very seriously came up to me and asked "Mom, do you like this smile?" Cooper, i do I do like this smile and it totally reminds me of your brother. You are a goofball!

8/12/07

Apologies

2008-10-10T12:04:00.001-07:00

Ok, it has been a long time since I have added anything to your site, or your brother & sister's for that matter. There are a few things I wanted to write before I forget.

Last night as you and I were snuggling, I asked you how much you loved me. You pinched your fingers really small (it's a game we always play), then I made a sad face and you opened your arms as wide as you could. You asked me how much I loved you, and I said as much as the whole world. You couldn't be outdone, you thought really hard and told me you loved me all the way to South America.

You keep standing against the wall, placing your hand on your head (like you are being measured for a ride), and explaining to me that you are big enough for school. It has been really hard for you this week not being able to start school with your siblings, you know it is coming, you just don't get why you didn't start at the same time. I am actually happy I still have a month of Cooper time, I am going to miss you little man, more than you will ever know!

8/10/07

Catch up

2008-10-10T12:03:00.002-07:00

You are loving school. You were a little sad when I told you that you were going to be in Ms. Siciliano's class, because you really wanted to be with Giselle in Ms. Silver's class. I kept trying to explain to you all the other friends you would be excited about in Ms. Siciliano's. Now you can't stop talking about all your friends. You were very happy when Treasure got assigned as your mentor, you have had a lot of fun with her showing you the ropes this week. You love being with Salem & Andrra again. I can't believe how fast you are growing up, just learning all the time.

Unfortunately you have also had quite the attitude this week, this is a new development that I am not liking very much. Tantrums and all, I am ready for them to stop, so hopefully we will be abale to work something out.

Last night you loved helping with dinner, we had a 4 cheese pasta, and they all needed to be shredded, so you had a blast shredding for me. I think you are going to be a wonderful cook someday, I can't keep you out of the kitchen if I am in it. Sometimes I wish I could just do it myself and get it over with, but I do love your enthusiasm. I hope it always stays with you!

Tonight we are surprising you guys and going to a waterpark. I can't wait to see your face, it is going to be so much fun. I love you sweet girl, keep up the good work!

8/10/07

A fresh start

2008-10-10T12:03:00.001-07:00

You have another new teacher this year, I am praying this one works out better than the last one. You seemed to have made a lot of changes just in the last week, and I hope this will be a great year for you. You are so smart, too smart at times, and you have a way of negotiating which doesn't always work well at school.

Daddy was giving Father's blessings the night before school started. I explained that sometimes it is nice if you are nervous, or have something on your mind to be able to get a Father's Blessing. I explained how at the beginning of each school year my dad always gave me one, and I relly looked forward to it. When it came your turn you just shrugged your shoulders and said you didn't need one, you have no worries kid. We talked you into one anyways, but I love your confidence. You can do anything you want, and you are not afraid!

Let this be a good year for year, I pray for that nightly, you deserve it. I am so proud of you, and the young man you are growing into. I love you!

Slow down

2008-10-10T12:02:00.002-07:00

You are growing up all together way too fast. You are so beautiful, and so tall, and so grown up, and everytime I look at you I think you are 13 years old. Of course, if you are anything like me, than you absolutely love that about yourself. I loved looking older that I was, of course it got me into a lot of trouble down the road, but I still loved it.

I was so happy I was able to switch you into Ms. Chacon's class. I think it is going to be a much better fit for you and for me. I am so glad you will be with Desiree and Brennan again. They are really good friends that I hope you have for a very long time. Bishop Johnson is your sub for the next 2 weeks, which is really cool. You seem to be enjoying him.

You are constantly testing the waters, always pushing to see how much you can get away with. It is a major struggle for me, I am starting to get sick of the constant drama. The hardest thing is not knowing which Chloe I am going to be dealing with. Sometimes you are so eager to help, and I don't know what I would do without you, then an instant later you are storming out of the room, refusing to do anything. It is going to be a very long hard road ahead os us, but I think we will make it. At least I hope so!

8/10/07

All the way down!

2008-10-10T12:02:00.001-07:00

6/21/07

Swimming Fun

2008-10-10T12:01:00.001-07:00

Swimming Fun

2008-10-10T11:59:00.001-07:00

6/21/07

Andy & Austin

2008-10-10T11:57:00.000-07:00

6/21/07

Goofballs

2008-10-08T15:39:00.000-07:00

Just being goofballs at the game!

6/11/07

The sword & the Stone

2008-10-08T15:26:00.000-07:00

You had been talking about this play for months. You never said if it was a class play, or just something you and your friends were doing. YOu never practiced at home, I never saw a script or a story line. Then all of the sudden on Monday you said we needed to be at the school on Wednesday @1:30 for the play. Jon and I showed up, and it is a full on play, and you have the biggest part. You were awesome. I have no idea how you memorized all those lines all by yourself, you kept saying you messed up but I never noticed anything. I was totally flabbergasted. I was so proud of you. I am going to look into some drama classes for you, you were that good! I was so sad because the battery was dead on the camcorder, I hope I will be able to find some parent that taped it. Awesome job Andy Boy!

6/11/07

Graduation

2008-10-08T15:25:00.001-07:00

Karen, Sophie, you, me, Amanda,
Amy & Hayden

You & Amanda

Ayla, you & Kat

Sophie & you

Cute graduate

Savannah, Thea & you

You & Mrs. Easton

You & Thea

This is what Mrs. Easton wrote in your report card:

Buffy is a strong student. She is a leader, is interested in learning and quite responsible. She is ready for 1st Grade. She will be quite successful because of her hard working attitude.

You sweet girl, I can't believe you are going to be a 1st grader. I really wish you would stop growing, I am going to miss your squeaky voice, and sweet attitude. I love you and am sooo proud of you!

6/6/07

Graduation

2008-10-08T15:23:00.000-07:00

Mother's Day Celebrations

2008-10-08T15:22:00.000-07:00

Here is video, finally from Mother's Day.

Science Fair

2008-10-08T15:21:00.002-07:00

Today was the 1st Science Fair at school. You and daddy chose Fingerprints as your project. You did a great job, but you procrastinated and put it all of until last night. It was pretty frustrating, but it all turned out well. Mrs. Drew was very impressed, you are such a smart girl. I can't believe you are going to be a 5th grader, it blows my mind. I love you in this picture, you are so proud. Great job sweetie!

6/2/07

Stop growing up!

2008-10-08T15:21:00.001-07:00

Saturday you had your 1st -going to the movies with just friends- outing. I was freaking out, I kept drilling you about what to do, how to act, not to talk to strange people, not to walk around afterwards, to call me immediately after it was finished. I made dad walk you up because I just couldn't let go, luckily one of your friends mom's was having a hard time too so she told dad that she was going to stay and watch the movie from the back. I felt much better, but I still can't believe how fast you are growing up. It's all down hill from here!

5/30/07

Yippee, Yahoo, Yee-haa!!!

2008-10-08T15:20:00.001-07:00

You dit it, uh-hu, you did it, uh-huh! You finally went #2 on the potty last night. We have been trying to get you to do this for months, and you have been fighting us, pooping in the backyard, on the floor (and trying to clean it up before I find it), holding it til the moment I put your diaper back on. Finally after last night, you looked at us and said"THat wasn't so bad!" I was sooo proud of you!

5/30/07

Your 1st lost tooth (literally)

2008-10-08T15:18:00.000-07:00

You were dead set on having your tooth pulled yesterday, and I was too scared to do it. We waited for daddy to get home, and you were scared to death. So we dropped it...fast forward to 9:00 at night, you will do anything to put off going to sleep. Since you got out of bed there was no way your dad was going to let you go back to bed without actually pulling. You were very brave, no tears at all, you tried to convince him that you could pull it out yourself with the string. The string popped right off, so we retied it and slammed the door. Then we couldn't find the tooth, so you wrote a note. I found the tooth later on, but I love the note. As you and I were writing it, I would spell out the words for you to write. When we got to the word the, you finished writing it, and you looked at me and said "duh, you could have just said the mom" in a totally snotty voice. I was dying, you are such a smarty pants. ANyhow, you are so happy to have finally lost a tooth, you were that last one in your class and it was breaking your heart!

5/31/07

Ice Skating

2008-10-08T15:16:00.001-07:00

You were so nervous about ice skating. When we first started you were glued to the wall, then you insisted on having one of the walker things. I finally got you to try it on your own, and you were amazed that it wasn't so scary. I told you it really wouldn't hurt if you fell down, and when you finally did you were totally surprised that I was telling the truth. I had so much fun with you, a great fieldtrip.

5/30/07

Sly devil

2008-10-08T15:15:00.000-07:00

Today was a half day at school, last night you kept asking "Do we really have to go, it's just a 1/2 day?" I kept explaining that will only a week and 1/2 left, you guys weren't going to miss anything, I need to stock up before summer. Smart boy that you are, you just didn't wake me up this morning, you knew I wouldn't take you guys on a 1/2 day late, and lucky for you I actually slept pretty good last night, and was still sleeping soundly this morning, so your plan worked! I love you kid, you always keep me on my toes!

5/25/07

Cute girl

2008-10-08T15:13:00.000-07:00

4/26/07

Sisters

2008-10-08T15:11:00.000-07:00

Coop & Grandma

2008-10-02T15:59:00.000-07:00

4/26/07

Zzzzzzz's

2008-10-02T15:58:00.002-07:00

Your many napping positions! You gotta love it, can't wait til tomorrow's nap!

4/9/07

So Sweet!

2008-10-02T15:58:00.001-07:00

We were watching Miss Spider on tv this morning, and you said that the mom is so pretty, just like me. I wanted to cry, you are the sweetest little guy. Thanks for making my day!

4/4/07

I-Scusting!

2008-10-02T15:57:00.000-07:00

Today you were naked for most of the day, I heard a rumor that kids potty train better when naked, so we are giving it a shot. When grandma got home you told her that you went tot he bathroom outside like Prince does, when she asked why, you replied"Cause I'm iscusting!" WE were dying, the way you say it is so cute. A few minutes later you stood at the threshold of the back door, and just started peeing all over the bricks. I thought you meant you had gone in the yard. You couldn't understand what the big deal was. You are such a crack up!

3/29/07

Watermelon

2008-10-02T15:56:00.000-07:00

Sweet Boy!

2008-10-02T15:55:00.000-07:00

Every post is better with a picture,

so here is a darling one from a long time ago!

2 things on my mind tonight:

First, the last 3 nights as it was time for you to go to bed, you came in to me because you had to give me a "bednight kiss". I absolutely love it, you make me so unbelievably happy. There is nothing better than a bednight kiss from my Cooper!
Second, daddy explained to you tonight that he was going on an airplane tomorrow to go to Las Vegas for the week, you came into the living room and told me, and you couldn't get through the whole thing before you started to cry. I held you for almost 20 minutes while you cried because you are going to miss your daddy. You are the sweetest boy ever!

Monkey Bars

2008-09-30T10:42:00.001-07:00

YOu were terrified at first, but then you finally trusted us, and you did it! I was so proud of you. These are just a fw of the hundred pictures I took of it. Love you Andy Boy!

Favorite

2008-09-30T10:41:00.001-07:00

I bought you this outfit a few months ago, while I was dreaming of warmer weather. YOu loved it, but from the moment I gave it to you, decided that it needed your brown gauchos underneath. It drives me crazy! It would look so cute without them, but that is the only way you will wear them, you actually wore your jeans under it the 1st month you had it, and I really hated that! You would wear this everyday if it was clean. You crack me up, don't forget all of your accessories!

Funny

2008-09-30T10:40:00.001-07:00

Today we were getting ready to go to lunch, and as usual were rushing. I trusted all of you to get yourselves together, than you all went out to wait on the bench. I locked up and came out, and saw Cooper with a messy face, and shoes that don't stay on his feet very well, so I said"Cooper, your face is so messy," then one of his shoes fell off, and I said"That's why you are not supposed to wear those shoes." You sat there for a minute, and finally asked" What does Cooper's face being messy have to do with him not wearing those shoes?" I just thought it was funny, how you were trying to figure it out!

Bikini Babe

2008-09-30T10:39:00.000-07:00

Buffy & Sophie

2008-09-30T10:38:00.000-07:00

Stripes

2008-09-30T10:37:00.000-07:00

I just loved your outfit tonight, so of course I had to take a picture of it!

Oreos

2008-09-30T10:36:00.000-07:00