Well Worth the Wait!

Happy Birthday my Sweetness!

Paige Erin Helm

Born: December 8, 2010

Time: 2:51 pm

Weight: 8 lbs 10 oz

Height: 20.5 in

Mom & Paige

Dad & Paige

Reed & Paige- Noah & Paige

Jamison & Paige

Pink Pink Pink and sweeter than ever!

(Below is my whole adventure. Very lengthy. Read if you'd like.)

The story goes...

Wednesday December 8th, was a morning filled with much anticipation, anxiety, and of course excitement. I was told to be at Timpanogos Regional Hospital by 6:30 am and then they would start the induction process. Steve and I were up bright and early. Mostly because we couldn't sleep. My mom and dad were at our door by 6:00 am to watch the boys and then we were headed off to the hospital. On our way, I mentioned to Steve that I had forgotten to eat breakfast. My favorite meal of the day! I was bummed knowing that the hospital wasn't going to feed me until after the babe got here and I knew I didn't pack anything. Soon enough we were in the Fresh Market parking lot and Steve was handing me a delicious apple fritter donut with orange juice. YUUUUMMMYYY!!! A man of my heart. He also snagged a couple red box movies so we had something to watch at the hospital.

Checking in...

After changing into the "fancy" gown and non slip blue socks they provided, I crawled into the bed and prepared to answer the nurses questions. First question: Did you seriously deliver a 12 pound baby? I looked at her and Steve and I laughed and then replied, "What has he been telling you?" Steve looked just as surprised as I. The nurse looked at us and said that on my records it indicated that i had delivered a 12 pound baby. Oh my goodness! We tried to clear up any confusion and came to the conclusion that they left out the "7" part on the "7 lb 12 oz" when Noah was born. The sweet nurse Erin continued to tell us how all the nurses were trying to fathom my 5'0" frame delivering a baby into this world with only the assistance of a vacuum??? They were all mind boggled and couldn't stop talking about it. It was quite the conversation starter. We continued to laugh and finish up the checking in process. I was dilated to apx a six and they decided to break my water around 7:00 am. We would see how fast I would progress and then decide if pitocin was necessary. Well it turned out that the babe was sitting pretty high and really didn't feel a need to move down and therefore my dilating was slow. Up went the pitocin. Finally I reached a 7. We watched the contraction and they never seemed to get closer than 3 minutes apart. The nurse Erin, kept asking me if I wanted my epidural yet. I wasn't feeling the "usual" pain of contractions and I was counting on those to kick in before I got my epidural. Frankly, I was putting off the inevitable. I wasn't in severe pain and the thought of that needle makes me cringe. The window of opportunity was going to pass me by and so I decided the pain of the epidural probably outweighed the pain of the delivery. (ha ha ha-who am I kidding?) I am a fan of the pain free delivery. We sang jingle bells to get my mind off the man and the tools at my back.

Continuing on...

The clock was ticking and Dr. Saunders needed to get back to the office for his other appointments. He was on call and I felt a little pressure to get this little baby here. Apparently I was worried that some stranger was going to have to step in and take over. Sounds crazy huh? Well I do feel a little silly. Like I could do anything. Finally, around 2:10 pm I was given the go ahead. Time to push! (sorry if too much info) In between each contraction the nurse, doctor, Steve and I would just sit there and stare at each other, practically twiddling our thumbs. I felt a little strange. I kept on insisting we sing songs or talk about something but I guess maybe it wasn't the superb time. Just to put a wee bit more "pressure" on me, I was told a few times that "usually with your fourth baby, it only takes a few pushes." It took me about 40-45 minutes to get our sweet one here. Like I said, well worth the wait.

2:51 pm she arrived...

She made it! The doctor did his stuff and asked Steve to clip the cord. Gratefully they were watching him because he almost did it in the wrong place. After a minute of Steve and the doctor conversing I finally asked, "So is it a girl?" The doctor and Steve checked with an attitude of

"Oh yea!" Then the doctor placed her on my chest and I could feel the emotions welling in my eyes. What a miracle! What a feeling of gratitude to know that she is apart of our family, to know that Heavenly Father sent her to us with the trust that we would take care of her.

Steve and I decided that Paige Erin was her name. My middle name is Erin and we both like the name Paige. (I also liked the fact that my nurse was Erin and she was a sweetheart) Paige was sent to the nursery to be monitored because her breathing was a little fast. Steve would not leave her side. It was so cute. Already wrapped around his finger. After a bit, my room was quiet. Just me and my lunch.

The After Lunch...

I polished off my lunch and enjoyed some HGTV for an hour or two. Suddenly I began to feel very sick, nauseous and ready to pass out. I fumbled to find the nurse button. Nurse Kathy answered and asked what I needed and if she could bring me something? All I could get out was, "I feel sick, I am sick." and then things started to go a bit blurry. Next thing I knew Kathy handed me a blue bag where I left some of my lunch and then I was laying flat on my back while she began to call in the other nurses. I felt hot, cold, nauseous, clammy. I didn't know what was going on, but the feeling was a bit foreign. An ER movie scene could describe the mood. I was getting second IV's, shots on all sides and then the indescribable pain of constant kneading on my uterus. I was hemorrhaging and loosing blood fast. Steve made it to my side after being tracked down in the hallway on his way back from getting lunch. The nurse told him he was needed and that he should move a lot faster than he was. I could feel one of his hands at my side and the other stroking my head. All I could do was look at his concerned face and cry.

Eventually the bleeding slowed, they looked for a possible trigger of the hemorrhage but could only come up with guesses. 2 liters of blood were lost and tests were taken to see if a blood transfusion was necessary. It was truly a personal testimony to me and Steve that a hospital is where we needed to have this baby. In a blink of an eye things can change, and we were so grateful that we had the medical attention that we needed. Thankfully I didn't end up needing a transfusion. The doctor and nurses were amazed at my "high numbers" esp. for the amount of blood that I lost.

The Calm After the Storm...

Steve was able to feed Paige for her first time since I was a bit out of the loop. I still hadn't seen her since she was born and a part of me was feeling left out, but it was for the best considering I was so weak. Paige was doing good and my levels were looking better.

We moved to postpartum around 9:30 pm. Steve and I were both exhausted so we just sat back and did the least we could.

Knock Knock...

Thursday Dec. 9th was filled with many visitors. My mom and dad brought the boys to see their new sister. Jamison walked into the room with a huge grin, pointed to Paige, and exclaimed, "my baby!" It was adorable. They were so excited to see her, touch her, hold her and finally see this little sweetie. Noah took a little bit to crack out of his "tough guy-can't show the love yet" attitude, but he came around and he can't get enough of her. Reed loves her and gets so excited when she touches him with her fingers. He always says, "She likes me!" They are the cutest boys and are already the best brothers. The boys and my mom snuck around outside to my window and popped a little confetti bottle to celebrate Paige's birthday. They were ecstatic!

Other visitors: Steve's mom Pamela, Briant, Camille, Brooke, Madison, Christian, Kristin, Mat, Ali, Cam, Steve's friend from work & wife, Ryan and Rebecca Coombs.

Friday Dec. 10th We were able to go home! We are doing good and recovering well!

We sure have wonderful friends and family and appreciate each and everyone of you!

Thank you everyone for the love!

We love you!

Yeah for Paige!

We are the happiest parents and are so grateful for our four beautiful blessings.

Life is a miracle and they are our reminder!

Yep...Still here!

I am taking a moment to tell you all that I am still here. I know you didn't know otherwise but I just thought I should update. It is Tuesday the 7th. It has almost been a full week of being at a 5 and for one reason or another, I apparently don't need to progress at rapid speeds or rush to the hospital. I have been occupying my time with dishes, laundry, toilet scrubbing, organizing, reorganizing and of course watching the clock tick. "Nesting." Frankly, a funny term. If the little lady has not introduced herself to the world by tonight then it is to the hospital we go. Wednesday morning that is. I will most likely be induced early in the morning. Oh how I hope things go smoothly! Pray for us! :) It is so crazy to think that tomorrow I could have a baby in my arms. Exciting of course but a bit wild to think about. I have officially put the car seat in the car and my contact list has been made. So you think I am ready? Not sure if I am ever ready but anxious for sure. Names??? well we never have an "official" name until we see the wee thing. We usually have a short list of about 3 and then we decide. This time? Our short list is very short...1 actually! Hopefully she looks like a...Paige. I have loved that name even before Noah was born and it has stuck with me since. Steve is not opposed and doesn't seem to contribute any other runners up. We are so excited to see what a little Helm girl looks like.

(If for some reason that "1% possibility" of being a boy, I have coached myself to laugh)

Anything is possible, esp. when you have no control. So for all of you who read this entertaining post...Enjoy! and please pray for me and my soon to be growing family! Hope all of you are well and happy and of course enjoying this wonderful season. Woohooo! off to have a baby! :) :) :)

It's the Most Wonderful Time of the Year! December 2010

Can you believe it is already December? Wow, lets just say I am so grateful for the blessed month. It has finally arrived and now we are just anticipating sooooo many things. First on our list- The baby of course. Any day now! I went into the doctors today and I am close to being 5 cm dilated. Wohoo! I told Steve that by this weekend our wee one could be here. (Hopefully, considering my doctor is on call and it would work out nicely) Steve being so "thoughtful and optimistic" put bets on next week. Wednesday the 8th sounded promising. I set the induction date for that day, just in case I don't go before then. Lets just say I don't bet, I have learned way too many times. All in all we all know who is in charge. We are enjoying this ride that is soon to come to a stop, and then of course rapidly take a sharp turn and speed in who knows how many directions. Maybe not that dramatic, but change always has its getting used to. We are all so excited!!!! Second, third and so on...We have family get togethers, parties, MY BIRTHDAY on the 21st, and then the FANTASTIC Festivities of Christmas. What a fun time of year! It goes by way too fast! I just want to savour and soak in the Christmas season. I guess I need to make more cookies, crafts and see lots and lots of lights. Oh, and drink plenty of hot cocoa. If I had a fire place I would definitely be warming my toes next to it.

Random...

My boys are hilarious. Jamison had his pajamas on with buttons that go down the front. He was getting ready to change out of them when all of a sudden he ripped open his pajamas and yelled, "NACHOOO"-It is from the movie Nacho Libre. I am not sure how many 2 year olds have seen that movie, or what it says about me as a mother, but it is one of my boys favorite movies and they will repeat lines ALL the time. It cracks me up. Most repeated lines at my house:

(with Spanish accent)

"Esqueeze" (Jamison is excellent at take downs and wrapping his little legs around his opponents and with great triumph he yells this)"Naachoo"
"Get that corn outta my face"

"I kneew it...he is not a man of God."

(We don't emphasize this one too much because it sounds a bit inappropriate)

"I've had diahreas since Easters"

"Where are thee chips?"

"What took you so long? I looked liked a fool last night"

So after writing these, I feel like the worlds greatest mother. The things my children are teaching your children. Ha ha ha! sorry

SoLo SuNdAy!

Today was my first official Sunday going to church solo. Normally I would have stayed home, and used the excuse of Steve being gone as to why I avoided church. BUT...I didn't. I had a few things going on at church and well...blessings are always welcomed. ha ha ha

REWIND...Early Friday morning (apx 2:00 am) Steve decided to hitch a ride with his parents down to Las Vegas. His mom, dad, brother and sister in law were headed that way for a concert. Well Steve being the service oriented guy decided it would be the perfect opportunity to help out one of his sisters that lives down there. I thought it was a nice gesture and decided to let him make the choice to go or stay. He's a big boy. Eventually as the night got later and the time was arriving for Steve to leave, I was all but excited for him to go. First of all, I am a emotional, hormonal, pregnant woman. Second, night time is no time to talk to me rationally. Third, what if the baby were to come? Fourth, I have three boys and I might go insane. Fifth, I am a seriously pregnant, hormonal, emotional, irrational woman to talk to at night with three boys that might have the worst weekend of their lives. SIGH! so with all that said, he was gone. I don't blame the guy. A breather is probably good for him before this next one comes.

Today is Sunday and we are all still alive! Yay! We are all very excited for Steve to come home in the morning.

Back to my Sunday duties...

We made it to sacrament and the boys did pretty darn good. Jamison felt the need to hum, sing, or talk most of the meeting and while his mouth wasn't vocal it was filled with honey comb cereal. Chomp Chomp Chomp-How I love to remind my children to chew quietly. I do have to admit I reminded them that if they were good they got a piece of taffy when they got home. Bribery, not sure how to live with out it. During sacrament I was also called to be the new 2nd counselor in primary. I am excited to work with the ladies and the kiddos but it is bitter sweet, for I am going to miss the Young Women.

Then it was off to primary where I assisted Reed in giving a little talk. He is such a cutie!

For the third hour I was in charge of this weeks lesson in Young Woman's. So I had to teach for my last time. tear tear- As for my to do list... I have checked those off for the day. Woowee!

All in all, I am so glad that church went so smoothly. I am happy to see Steve. And I am so thankful that i do not have to take my kiddos to church alone. Bless you women that do it!

A LoT tO sWaLlOw! November 2010

Black and Orange holiday is in the past and I am moving on to bigger (literally) more tasty holidays. Okay, so Halloween is pretty tasty, but I love Thanksgiving though I eat my face off and usually end up with a stomach ache. We also can't forget about Christmas. How can you when it hits the stores and television even before Halloween? Goodness. But I love it all!

Not only are those fabulous, and tasty events, I have a bigger one on my plate.

Drum roll please.....

OUR LITTLE BABY IS COMING!!!!

I know I am due the 9th of December but I feel that MAYBE she'll come early. Of course because I have said that, she won't :) I have some easy "babysitting" going on right now with this little one, but I'd have to say that the anticipation is amazing and I am so excited to hold the little bundle.

Lack of sleep, soreness, and the feeling of frumpiness is only to be expected and I could do with out that, but it is so worth it. Newborns grow into infants, infants into toddlers and toddlers to kiddos WAY TOO FAST! you always hear people say they do and seriously, THEY DO! These times are but small moments. (sniffle sniffle)

RaNdOm:

What do you think???

We have this tree in our front yard (pine or spruce?). Steve says it is going to grow way too big for the space it is in right now. So for Christmas this year he wants to CUT it down and use it as OUR Christmas tree and then he will plant a new one next year. Then possibly every three years we can do this as a tradition. BAHH BAHH BAHH

So he is a funny and very creative man. My thoughts...

-I don't want to have to keep a tree and a new baby alive

-I am happy to use our artificial one

-I want to decorate early

-Sounds like a lot of work

-Too messy

-It is seriously funny

*my sister Heather about cried at the thought of cutting it down. She suggested we transplant it into her yard. Steve thought that was way too much work. Hmmm...

HELP ME PLEASE....What do you think? honestly

ONE Little TWO Little THREE Little...Halloween 2010

INDIANS

Here they are! all decked out for Halloween.

It is so fun to feel their anticipation. They were so excited for Halloween and I think October will forever be the longest month. Guess we shall see considering we still have Christmas to come.

The original plan was to have a horse (Jamison) a Cowboy (Noah) and an Indian (Reed). Then I began making the Indian get up and all the boys decided that is what they wanted to be.

So Wallah! Just to make things clear, I did not make the head dresses. Cute I know but Loin clothes? Oh you better believe it. Ha ha ha.

Jamison, Noah, Reed and Steve or shall I say Esteban?

He was a...not quite sure what you call it, but an amigo you might find in Mexico.

I am a "last minute Halloween costumer. " Every year I think I will be better than the year before and be prepared with a good costume, but I succeeded again at scratching that idea. At the last minute I dressed in black and put a lovely red marking plastered to my stomach. Then I painted a spider web on my face and called myself good. A black widow, tada! It worked.

The night was RAINY RAINY RAINY and it is amazing that they got as much candy as they did. They were little troopers and rain or shine they were determined to get some sugar. Happy are we. Who am I kidding? I was counting on those boys to get me some goodies. Thank you boys!

After the boys hit our circle we headed up to my sister Heather's for some yummy chili and fun. We ate, talked, trick or treated, and enjoyed all the costumes.

Hands down, the Derrick family won the costume contest. Well they would have if their was one. My sister Kristin and her family do the best costumes. A theme usually that her and her daughter Ali come up with. This year...Alice in Wonderland. I am still amazed at Fro's(Mat) costume as the mad hatter. BRAVO! BRAVO! BRAVO!

Ali -Queen of Hearts Kristin-White Queen? Fro-Mad Hatter

Cam-was Buzz Light year 'cause he is obsessed

but his costume was wet and he didn't want to be cold anymore

DON'T THEY LOOK SPOOKTACULAR?

Hope everyone had a good Halloween!

When Snow flies-so do the boys!

Wednesday October 27, 2010

The first glimpse of snow and the boys were rushing the door. I had to put a halt on the escapees until there was some food in their bellies. Once breakfast was gulped it was snow time! Pj's weren't even changed. Snow clothes were thrown on and out the door they went to plunge into the winter. The neighbors were out and the boys were loving it! Nothing like a snowball fight before 9:00 am. Sad to say I had to break up the party around 10:00 so I could do some church duties, but I think the timing was alright. Most of the snow was trampled and the sun was beginning to melt the fluffy white. Love a good start to the day!

Reed, Noah & Jamison

Too bad the lighting wasn't better

CrAfTy!

I am finally posting a photo of my masterpiece! I call it that because of the time it took me. I have never done a "REAL" quilt before, and who knows if I will ever get around to doing another. I look at quilts now with a whole new perspective.

TADAA!

Cute quilt for the little baby to come!

I made this little pillow wrap to match.

With my spare ribbon I got creative & made a bow or two.

Steve is still wondering if they are going on gifts or if our child

is really going to sport those on her head. Up for debate!

I have been making these blankets off and on for the last couple months. My brother in law's mom made him a blanket from his old t-shirts when he was growing up. I borrowed the idea and have been collecting from my boys attire. They have shared most of their clothes so there are plenty of reruns in the blankets but still fun to look at. A tug at the memory strings! I rolled these up for now with the cute letters showing who's blanket is who's. I was going to roll it out and give a peek of what they looked like, but they look cute this way and you can't see the flaws-ha ha ha.

Well there you have it! A few of my creations for the moment. I would post a couple more, but I will save them. (Halloween costumes, Christmas decor, gifts) Can't ruin a surprise!

Pumpkin Party! October 23, 2010

Saturday night we went to my sisters house (Heather). We had pumpkin pie, candy, caramel apples, Halloween music and wonderful company. Heather, Jon & Kate- Papa & Sunny-Camille & Briant-Brooke, Maddie & Christian-and then us, the Helm's. We sure missed the rest (Dan, the Derricks & the other Browns) -The night was dedicated to the crafty carving of pumpkins. I think the adults were into it a bit more than the kiddos. Noah did scoop out all the goop from our pumpkin though. Thanks tough stuff! Afterwards we took some photos and headed home. Well most of us...eehem! Steve stayed to watch some "fight" with Jon. Boys will be boys. Thankfully he is not obsessed and can miss those things. Thank you Larson family for a spooktacular night!
(sorry for the dark photo-It was night time)

top right-Briant, Camille, Brittany, Steve, Noah,
Maddie, Kate, Reed, Papa, Christian, Jamison,
Brooke, Sunny (Heather & Jon not in photo)

Maddie, Kate, Reed, Christian, Noah, Jamison

Oh how I love a good time.
Happy Halloween!

SoMeOnE iS 30!!!!

minus 1 candle :(

You silly people-NOT ME! not yet at least. I may be having my 4th child soon but by no means am I at the 30 mark. (not that it would be bad or anything)

My SWEET delectable STEVE has officially turned THIRTY YEARS OLD, 30 30 30-WOW!

OCTOBER 21st was the day this man grew a bit older. He continues to get wiser too. Truly he does get wiser and smarter and with age...even sweeter.

I do have to say...I feel that I did NOT do this birthday what it deserves.

(sounds like last year) Lets rewind- I have been asking Steve what he would want or want to do for his birthday. The man is easy to please but difficult to surprise. Even when I think I found something great, he always knows. He played it like, "Nothing, really I don't need anything blah blah blah, I would rather hang out with the fam and have cake." So I take him literally.

What did Steve Helm do on his 30th birthday???

He woke up, I made him breakfast, he opened a gift or two, then he worked. During lunch the boys sent him on a little hunt to find the 30 things they love about their dad. We came up with them and they wrote them on cards. It was cute! Then he went to work. We ate dinner and then we had some cake and ice cream for dessert. Stellar 30th birthday.

(Friday we did go eat at JCW's)- counts right?

Birthday Boy and breakfast!

Birthday Boy and cake!

Well my love...I hope you had a good birthday. Thanks for the wonderful man you are and of course fabulous father and husband. We are so grateful we get to celebrate another spectacular birthday ! Keep 'em comin' babe!

Pumpkins!

It's pumpkin time! (Saturday October 9, 2010)

Reed-Noah-Jamison: pumpkin inventory - Noah & his cute sign he made

This year our little garden produced around 20+ little pumpkins. I say little because they are the ones you would decorate the table or let the kiddos paint. Not pumpkin carving material. Noah was pretty excited and remembered last year selling them to the neighbors and making some money. He was determined that the one thing he was going to do on Saturday was make a sign and take the trailer around filled with pumpkins. We came to the conclusion that $1.00 a pumpkin would suffice. So my hardworking boys washed off the pumpkins and then eventually made it around our circle. The boys each picked their own pumpkin and then the rest were up for business. When it came down to it...They ended up making $14.00. Aren't they cute! Steve and I just roamed around, stood back and let the boys (mainly Noah) do all the talkin.' Once they were all done and closed up shop the boys and Steve laid out and sorted their earnings. Don't worry, we didn't take advantage of the situation, they both got to keep all the money. Admittedly we took this as a teaching moment and let them place "their" money in their "Save" "Give" & "Spend" pouches. You can never teach too soon. Hopefully we don't sound like Dave Ramsey has taken over our lives. Actually he has and I am okay with that. All for a good cause. Any who...The boys seemed to be excited about the pumpkins this year and who knows, maybe it will be a tradition, hopefully the neighbors don't start avoiding us.

Good job Boys!

ME! October 2010

I had intentions of posting updates on the entire family but after I wrote about me it was a bit long. So I am being a bit selfish and I will write about them soon. Interesting I know.

ME- Well or shall we say "whale"??? Yes, I am feeling huge and looking the part. That cute "sweet, purple and round"post with my prego picture...Lets just say I have made some dramatic changes. I think I have gone from a grape to a plum to now an eggplant. Yesterday at church One nice brother asked "How many more weeks, it's coming up right?" actually sir, I have too many to count (exaggeration) but he looked at me and said, "Oh really, are you sure there aren't two babies in there? ha ha ha" (but I know he was serious)-I just laughed. Then to end my day at church a lovely sister asked, "Any day now right? " I told her nope, I still have until Dec 9th- she replied, "Are you sure you're not having twins?" BAHHH BAHHH BAHHH funny right? well I explained how I had that same comment earlier. Just grateful to be having one.
AND FOR THE RECORD....I AM HAVING ONE BABY!
Other than that grand Sunday, I went to the doctors this last week and I am already starting to dilate. Almost a ONE. This has never happened. The doc told me to "take it easy."
Hmmm, I think I am going to ask for a "written" doctors note and wear it around so I don't feel so guilty doing things. So for all my medical/labor and delivery nurses...Inform me of what "taking it easy means." For now I am doing good but feeling like I am going to have a baby!
I have also taken on the project of an adorable quilt. Project with a capitol "P"-It has been a ton of work but it is really cute. Hopefully it gets enjoyed. I will have to take a picture of the outcome and post it. Oh the anticipation!!!!

Experimenting!

Well since I am "trying" to be a good homeschooling/home learning whatever you want to call it mom; The boys and I have gotten a bit adventuresome this week.

I cracked open this sweet "physics experiments" book. Don't get to excited thinking this is a large 10 lb book I pulled off the shelf and blew the dust from the water logged pages.

Oh NO way! this is a nice little "booklet" I found at Target. Even came with stickers-Oh yes, very serious stuff! Exciting non the less. The last two days we have been whipping out a few experiments and loving it (esp. when they work)

Baking Soda & Vinegar-Way cool!

Cornstarch & water with blue food coloring-Very cool!

Celery & food coloring-neato

balloons were for fun!

We have also done a pop bottle with water (pressure)-along with a paper boat and soap- and milk with food coloring with soap.

The boys think it is all pretty neat, I too am impressed with some of the out comes!

FOUR!

This post is labelled "Four" for many good reasons.

"Four" I now have a greater appreciation as to why golfers yell out "four" when they know there is a possibility for impact. Prepare yourselves and move out of the way!

"Four" My sweet four year old has now been the first to need medical attention in the form of an emergency. (we are so blessed)

"Four" The number of people it took to hold down and attend to the needs of this little guy.

Steve being one of them. I was way too busy balling my eyes out.

"Four" The number of stitches it took to patch Reed's open wound.

"Four" surprises Reed received from the doctors:

1. sucker 2. stickers 3. pencil 4. apple juice

He felt pretty special knowing they were just for him. He also received a bonus of a Twix bar from his Uncle Jon (Larson) so we could actually get him into the car, along with a promise of a slushy from me and Steve after all was said and done. He deserved it!

So the story goes...We were going about our day at Bear Lake (Wednesday Sept. 22)

My brother Scott and his family arrived and within the first 15 minutes of the arrival my sister Brooke met me on the stairs with a very painful look on her face. She proceeded to tell me that Sebi (6 yr old nephew) accidentally whacked Reed in the head with a golf club. I didn't know what to expect I rushed to find Steve carrying my crying Reed. I cautiously went to examine the aftermath. OH MY GOODNESS! I think I was in a bit of shock. I tried to stay calm and box up my immediate emotions but I am sure I let some leak out. I am female, hormonal and a mother. What do you expect? Well, we did what we knew how to and then decided that stitches were a must. Gratefully there was a health center down the road and we took our chances to see if it was open. This is Bear Lake, almost the end of the season and things start to look like a ghost town around there. YEA! for us they were open and very helpful. Reed was a bit of a bear. I don't blame the kid. Right from the start it was like pulling teeth. Trying to peel that little guy off us was a serious task. While the doctor was informing us of the procedures Reed's little chest was pounding so fast. It was ripping my heart out. Finally after the two nurses and Steve pinned him down, the doctor did his stuff. The whole time Reed just cried and yelled at Steve, "Dad, get off me." it was sad and a bit funny. He didn't like that kind of wrestling. Beads of sweat were coming off his nose he was working so hard. Steve couldn't believe how motivated and strong he was. Finally it was over and our little strong Reed survived. I think we all might have some scarring. He is a trooper and is very serious about not letting anything touch his stitches or getting germs on it.

He is so cute!

Reed & his stitches-along with some chocolate on his face!

Reed & Sebi-Still good buddies!

Reed @ the beach-along with chips on his face

Noah & Reed-along with some smiles on their face!

Steve & Brittany-along with a zit on her face!

Steve & Noah-along with their handmade bow and arrows, they surly are survivor men

Family @ the beach

Noah & Papa-flying the awesome kite

Jamison fell asleep @ the counter-sugar loaded & nap deprived

Bear Lake was definitely fun filled! Steve got in some sweet fishing, we soaked up the sun, the beach, ate too much junk, played plenty of games, family talent night (my art won by the way-competition: Brooke) camp fire with bread and honey, magazine cut outs (Brooke totally won with her creative take on "the family photo makeover") hot tub, ice cream, trampoline, movies and with out fail we had to fix something. The tractor got stuck and the tow man had to come. Sorry Jonny!

But-drum roll please....this was the first year not one of my children got croup-Yeah!

Thanks Larson Family for the great time!

We sure love ya!

"You don't know where THAT has been"

I have been meaning to post this hilarious experience...

On our last eventful Sunday (approx 2 weeks ago)

My little family was walking to church (again).

Steve and Noah were a head of the pack. I was pushing Jamison in the stroller and pausing here and there for Reed to catch up. He is my little mossier. He takes his sweet time and always seems to get distracted by whatever catches his eye (grasshoppers, sticks, cool rocks, etc.)

Well the latest distraction...let me proceed in narration.

Reed: "Mom, look what I found"

I turn to see his latest treasure

Me: "What is that?

proudly he stretches the nasty object

Reed:"It's a balloon." (thankfully it was)

I cringe

Me: "Hurry, put it down. You don't know where that has been."

with a matter of fact look on his face he says...

Reed: "Yes I do."

Me: "Really, where?"

Reed: "On the ground!"

I laugh and continue to coax him to rid of that grotesque thing.

then I say

Me: "Well, you don't know where it has been before that."

again with a matter of fact look

Reed: "Yes, I do."

Me: "Where?"

Sweetly, yet "duh mom" attitude

Reed: "At a Partyyy"

Adorable! Adorable! Adorable!

What is round, purple and sweet?

Gaby-Kristin-Heather-Brittany-Brooke-Camille

I borrowed this picture off my sisters blog. This lovely "belly" shot was about 1 month ago, so you can only imagine me getting bigger. I know, I look like I could go any day, but that is not the case. Ahh! the joys of pregnancy. This may be the only look you get so I hope you feel special!

These are my cute sisters and sister in laws at Kristin's birthday celebration in the canyon. Just in case you were wondering.

Aren't they sweet!

MaDe Ya LaUgH!

I have about three recent posts, all of which are exciting, to me at least. Don't pass them by!

On this recent fast Sunday, We were getting ready for church. Noah was actually very punctual about getting dressed and I loved the peaceful feeling of the morning. Sundays are a bit chaotic, speedy and we usually face a battle of the shoes. So I thanked Noah for his obedience and then couldn't help but hear him encourage Reed to do the same. Oh the sparkles in my eyes. Then I heard this, "Reed, hurry and get dressed. Guess what? today is "short" Sunday. You know what that means. It's a shorter church day." Oh my goodness, how ADORABLE is that???

Noah's interpretation of a "FAST" Sunday was that it was going to be a "SHORTER" Sunday.

It melted me. Don't worry, we explained it to him. It reminded me of a cute story that would be told over the pulpit in church or conference. Kids are so cute.

This same Sunday, we were in sacrament meeting. Reed was looking for two brothers he thinks are pretty cool. One was going to be blessing the sacrament. His name is Ryker. And the younger brother is Walker. As Reed pointed them out, he turned to me and asked, "Mom, is Walkers name Walker because he walks fast?" I smiled and (laughed reverently) and said I didn't think so. I said, "Reed, is your name Reed because you read a lot?" Reed got a huge cheesy grin on his face and said "Yes!" CUTE again!

Lost, but NOT FoRgOtTeN!

I forced Steve to take me to get some "closure" the other evening, a rare occurrence I'm convinced. We parked the car and the boys and I waited while Steve ran in to get the "closure." We spotted Steve coming out of the store and watched as he walked to the aisle behind our car. We were curious as to where he was going. Was he lost? did he forget where we parked? was he tricking us? did I need to call him and direct him where to go? Noah thought for sure I needed to call him and guide him back to our car. I just sat and waited and figured he would be okay. I mean, how hard is it to find a gold mini van with its engine running packed with a hot chic and three adorable boys? Apparently harder than I thought. Steve eventually made it back. His face was a bit rosie and he had this huge grin on his face. I asked where he was going and then he replied with this... "I just had the funniest experience. I walked over to this gold mini van with its engine running. I got in the drivers seat, sat my groceries down and was ready to put it in drive. when I looked over to see some 14 year old blond girl and a whole family in the back seat. No one said anything to me. The poor girl just looked at me with her eyes bulging out of her head. So I grabbed my groceries and hopped out of the car. There was a lady getting into her car next to them. She kind of laughed and said she had done that before. "

So maybe it isn't that hard to find a gold minivan and a hot chic. After his explanation, I laughed my head off. It was hilarious!!! Personally, I have walked to the wrong car, but never attempted to hijack it and all its precious cargo. Oh man, I am still laughing. And another thing...I can't believe no one said anything to Steve. Maybe it was like those dreams when you are so scared you can't move or scream. Hmmm...Chalk one up for Steve. I love it!!!

So much to say! September 2010

It has been 16 days since my last post and I feel the distance has been so disconnecting!

There have been many things going on and sadly I cannot remember them all. Is my memory becoming that of a bowl of mush? Don't answer that. I already know the answer.

Here below is another recap of a few things going on in my life, past and present!

*I am going on week three of homeschooling...I think I have had only two serious episodes where I thought I was going to have a nervous breakdown. Poor Steve was on the brink of placing me in a"hormonal institution." We are okay for now. The boys are wonderful and I am doing my best!

*Jamison is talking quite a bit and definitely has his own spunk and agenda. He sure keeps it real around here. Bed time is a hit or miss thing at the moment. He is not sure about the crib anymore. Playing with toys and meandering back and forth between mom and dad's room and the boys rooms is a lot more entertaining than sleepy time. Crib for life! who's with me?

*Reed is obsessed with grasshoppers! He loves searching the yard for these abundant critters. I think there has been one brutal death and a suffocation. He tries to keep these friends, but a combination of brothers, neighbors, and lack of oxygen has gotten the best of them a time or two. I have come to the conclusion he is our carnivore. Reed loves bacon, sausage, chicken nuggets, and hot dogs, and despises the leafy greens (vegetables period). One day he may turn! Hopefully not to grasshoppers.

*Noah is getting so "mature." he pretends to be tough and denies the fact that he is having a sister, still wants to call her Tony Hawk, but on the surface he gets excited to feel her kick.

What a softy!

The boys went to the dentist a couple weeks ago. Hip Hip Hooray no cavities! while the assistant was cleaning Noah's teeth she pointed out that his two bottom front teeth were a bit wiggly. I being his mother was shocked of the recent discovery. I have to admit...I almost cried. My little boy is growing up! Seriously, I almost cried! but these teeth have awhile before they venture out. I am okay with that.

SuMmEr TiMe!

This has got to be some kind of record for me. Belated posting. Summer Summer Summer- We anticipate it much, It arrives, we enjoy, we sweat, we melt, we wonder if it is going anywhere and once we wish it was gone, POOF it has vanished. The cool crisp nights are upon us and we no longer stand outside late at night chit chatting with the neighbors.

Well, it isn't over yet but it is crazy to think about school starting and getting back into the routine of life without summer. Sigh!

As for what we have been up to lately...

Trip to Idaho

We made a trip to Idaho for a wonderful family photo/reunion/baptism. All of Steve's family made it for the blessed event. I think about 40 sweet beings were in it. Nothing like trying to make 40 people smile at the same time. I haven't seen the end result, but I am sure Jamison didn't smile once. Steve's niece Kate was also baptized while we were all there. A little side question....Why is it that when you have 40 people, there is bound to be 5 different varieties of disease floating around. I felt like I needed to be packin' a pocket of mask protector things. Yuck! Scrub a dub dub. Anywho, it is fun to see family and I am grateful they are fun people.

Sisters on the Move

Two of my sisters are in the process of moving. Brooke and Dan are going to be bunkin' with the parents while they build a home nearby, and Heather and Jon just moved into a home about two minutes from my parents. So they have been busy packin' and we were lucky enough to help move a few things. So happy they are still so close.

Yard Sale

My siblings and I put together a family yard sale and we had a great turn out. My family is so much fun and what better way to spend time together. Sorting, pricing, sweating, sorting, stacking, sweating...We truly did have fun doing it though. I do have to say that my brother Scott had the BEST collection of cassette tapes. And my kids got some great deals on a few items.

Ward Activity

Since Steve is the Activities Chairman in our ward, he put together a ward camp out/breakfast. Friday night (Aug 20) we went up American Fork Canyon to Mutual Dell and had a little camp fire hang out with the people in our ward. It was a good time with a watermelon eating contest, tasty breakfast, and good company-The kids looked like they had been camping for three days after the first three hours but hey, what can you say to a little dirt?

Double Date

Steve and I went on a little double date with our neighbors, the Mansfield's. We went to Magelby's and then went to Trafalga for a little mini golf competition. Lets just say i love how talented my husband is and I love even more how he had to do a practice swing before each hit. As for me and mini golf? No career changes.

I know there is plenty more but this will have to do for now!

One of these is NOT like the other! August 2010

Steve had gone out back and harvested (cut) the rhubarb from our little jungle of a garden. Yes, rhubarb. I don't think I had had this sour/tart/bitter edible creation until I married Steve, even looking back I don't know if I ever had really tasted it, UNTIL now. As Steve hauled in the long stalks of this overgrown looking red/green celery, he announced that WE were going to make a pie (or two). If you know me and my cooking skills you would know that If it isn't from a box, can, or bag-I have a hard time seeing the vision. So I looked at this pile of vegetation as, well, a pile of vegetation. Here is a little secret...Steve is a magician when it comes to whipping up something from nothing. Good thing, because I can look in the pantry, look in the fridge, and back in the pantry a dozen times and I still don't know what to make for dinner. Yuck! Poor guy, but I am so grateful for his inventive spirit and willingness to go for it. We all are.

So as for our rhubarb pie, it was not only beautiful, it was delicious!

No only was I helpful, Jamison was as well!

---Jamison took it upon himself to be one of the first to taste of its goodness. He pushed the stool over to the counter and managed to get one pie onto the floor and take a quiet moment to delve into the sweetness. When I found the very quiet "2 year old" he, along with the floor, was covered with pie. The one pie had been dabbled, squeezed, and drooled in. He had a great old time. Luckily the pie wasn't scalding and he was thoughtful enough to save a pie for us.

A few other "No Jamison" moments of the week!

Sunday morning-Jamison placed the pancakes on the counter and poured his own generous amount of syrup all over them. Oh stickiness!

(No, there was no adult or brotherly supervision-I'm not that nice)

Tuesday afternoon- I was at my parents with my siblings preparing the boys to have a fun filled time outside on the slip 'n slide. With preparation comes sunblock. I had taken off my rings, set them next to me on the floor, and applied the sun protectant. As I sent the little men off to play I looked down only to find my bling bling gone. I searched the room, the hallway, the whole path to the outside where I found my little Jamison ring less. If he didn't have them, where had they gone? We all began searching. I was puzzled, there were only so many places he could go from the time I realized this problem. Oh boy, I was wrong, apparently my child is Dash from The Incredibles. He managed to leave my presence, head down the hallway, go down the basement stairs, go down that hallway to my mom's office, drop the rings, walk the hallway again, back up the stairs, through the kitchen and outside. ALL with out me seeing him. So gratefully my elder brother Scott had found my rings and we were all able to enjoy the sunshine. Jamison is so amazing!

Just a "little" NoTe!

So I have never been one to post a "belly" shot and No, I am still not going to at this moment. Believe me it is there and I think within the last two weeks I have grown greatly. Having a neighbor who is due two weeks after me is not always a plus. I find myself comparing my belly to hers (mine of greater proportion) Hey I am human! But I shall be positive and appreciate the fact that inside is a sweet little thing growing strong and healthy. What a blessing! I love that my little boys are praying for their little sister and they are excited to have a little girl in the family. It is so bizarre for me to be saying that. Blink Blink! Amazing! I am going to have a little girl! WOW! I am not sure if it will really hit me until she comes into the world. Sigh!

Steve came into our room last night after putting the boys to bed and together they have come to the conclusion that they are going to make her a birthday cake ON her BIRTHday. "No one usually gets a cake on their BIRTHday." So even if our little one doesn't get to taste it, we will definitely be taking pictures. (remind me just in case)

-A little side note...I find it funny when I am pregnant (maybe all do), I seem to notice all the prego ladies and their pregoness. Yesterday we went swimming and to my surprise their were about 8 women sitting on the edge of the pool chit chatting with whomever and about 6 of them were "with child." I felt like I should hop on over and whip out the ultrasound and do some comparisons. Okay not really but it was quite the moment.

(Oh and my friend/neighbor just found out she is having a 4th BOY!)

BiRtHdAy BOYS!!!

Jamison turned 2!

It has been quite some time now but at least I am getting around to posting the blessed events.

On July 3, 2010 Jamison turned 2 years old. And Oh my goodness he sure did. We spent his birthday in Idaho with Steve's family. Grandma Tootsie (Pamela), Noah & Reed helped make a basketball cake for their little brother. They knew he liked basketball and wanted him to have a special birthday cake. They also got to make yummy brownies with sprinkles on top.

What fun they have at Grandma's.

For Jamison's big day we did the following:

We did a little swimming!

Jamison enjoying, devouring & then missing

his plethora of grapes

We spent some time at Rigby lake!

*Reed & Jamison playing with the worms

*Steve & Noah waiting for the fish to bite, too bad we

continued to be interrupted by random swimmers,

rock throwers & uneducated fish people

Jamison & his Basketball cake!

He sure enjoyed it!

Afterwards we went to Idaho Falls and watched the spectacular,

jaw dropping, holy smokes of a firework show. It was a beauty!

Happy Birthday Jamison

You are so happy

You are so athletic and coordinated

You try everything

You love all 3 of your blankies

You adore & look up to your brothers

You give such great kisses & hugs

You make great sound effects & animal noises

You love books, cars, & balls

You have amazing vocals-loves to yell

You love to conduct, sing & dance to music

-YOU ARE SO LOVED!!!

Another special day...On July 11, 2010 we celebrated the fabulous birthday of Reed.

My little Reedster is 4 years old. Goodness it is so amazing/sad at how fast these little ones grow. 4 seems so old and yet he will continue to get older.

Reed turned 4!

Reed & the cake he wanted me to make.

Yes, it is missing a few things but I did my best.

It is a snorkel masked man w/red fishes just in case

you were a bit confused.

Cousins: Marlen, Christian, Madison, Ali, Kate & Reed

Reed & Jamison opening gifts together.

Since we were in Idaho for Jamison's B-day

we did a little joint party.

Reed's birthday was on Sunday so we enjoyed

a yummy dinner with family and then the cake and ice cream.

Hence the lack of exciting photos.

Happy Birthday Reed

You have an awesome smile

You love your hair spiky or "lookin' sharp"

You love to ride your bike, jump & swim

You love bacon, sausage & pancakes

You are always first to cuddle

You are sweet to your brothers

You love to wrestle & play

You love to be carried downstairs

after you wake up in the morning

You have very intense taste buds

& can sense anything hiding in your food

You are always trying to do what is right

We Love you!