cat+tadd=sam

Eye Candy

2012-01-21T21:46:00.000-08:00

As if I don't post enough photos of our monster...

Reached over the in the truck and grabbed my hand. I DIED.

Seems like a man on a mission. Sidekick by his side.

Play date with Dashy

Don't we look dashing!

Yankees jersey from Papa Jack

Decked the Halls

2012-01-21T21:31:00.000-08:00

There is just something so magical about the glow of the lights on the Christmas tree. Sammy's is actually still up in his room as his nightlight.

Sam immediately adopted the Christmas throw as his blankie. I actually found the same blanket in cream so I could replace it once Christmas was over.

Some Christmas books

Santa Sighting

2012-01-19T21:33:00.000-08:00

Santa arrived at University Mall the day after Thanksgiving in...a...helicopter. Ridiculous, no?

Playing Outside

2012-01-19T21:31:00.000-08:00

Even without a snowsuit, we've made due when the outdoors calls.

The Most Fun He's Ever Had...

2012-01-19T21:19:00.000-08:00

Thanksgiving Day

2012-01-19T20:59:00.000-08:00

Just my new slips bought the day before Thanksgiving that I've already practically worn out.

My beautiful relish tray

We borrowed a snow suit for Lacey this winter since Samson is obsessed with being outside so I figured we better equip ourselves for playtime outside (a lot of good the snow suit has been this Spring/Winter).

Such a little boy.

A Happy Thanksgiving from me and Tadd, and a Grumpy Thanksgiving from Sam.

A beautiful spread this last year!

Sam got the shaft this year and was fed leftovers and mashed potatoes, then sent off to his nap!

Braving the Black Friday crowds that night! We hit up Babies R Us, but bailed on Target because it was CRAZY! But all in all, a grand time!

Thanksgiving Crafts

2012-01-19T20:45:00.000-08:00

Tysen is always doing fun things with her kiddos, and most holidays include a craft so we joined in on this one!

Kix Corn on the Cob

Toilet Paper Tube Turkeys

Thanksgiving Food Prep

2012-01-19T20:43:00.000-08:00

Once we got home from Samson's surgery, I got to work making the stuff I signed up for for Thanksgiving dinner. I'm lucky Sam crashed for a bit or I never would've gotten a head start on the food prep because once he was feeling normal again, my was he a trip!

Cherry pie prep

I loved how the cherries looked cooking down.

Chillin'

Rookie Cookie Veggie Dip

Look how pretty! I was sorta proud.

Tadd MAY or may not have left an open carton of yogurt out so while my back was turned the little tyke got to it. So rather than freaking out, and trying my hardest to entertain him some other way, I let him at it.

I think Samson set a goal for himself that day to make his biggest mess to date, and although he outdid himself, he has since blown his record out of the water.

Why do people cook?

What a gem.

My beautiful pumpkin pies (that took zero effort)

Ear Tubes

2012-01-19T08:00:00.000-08:00

Poor bebe Sam has had roughly eight or nine rounds of ear infections since birth, usually double infections, and come fall we finally said "enough is enough" and took him to an ENT. We asked for tubes before the summer, but were assured that kids don't get ear infections in the summer, so autumn would be a better time. How many did Sam get in the summer? Oh, two.

The fish tank at the ENT, always great entertainment.

Awaiting the doc.

After hearing Sam has had at least 6 ear infections, the ENT ordered tubes immediately. Writing a script at the same time for a current infection, of.course.

The day before Thanksgiving was the big day, and we were oh so ready for it. I wasn't actually nervous for the surgery since it was so mild, and is actually done in office for adults. Tadd was convinced I was going to have a major freak out, but I held it together!

Sammy thought the gown was so silly once we changed him, and I secretly wanted to steal one to take home.

I couldn't get enough of him in it, and took a million pictures (oh wait, isn't that our everyday life?)

The nurse gave him a little souvenir for his "stay".

Containing him in the playroom was near impossible, especially since they were running behind. Luckily he discovered this fascinating "playground" outside the room, and entertained himself by running behind patient's curtains. Way to go, dude.

A little melt down before being taken away. So sad.

It wasn't until after his surgery that I fell apart a little. We weren't exactly warned of how he'd react coming out of the anesthesia, so I was surprised at how upset he was. His poor little body would tense and shake, and he would try his darnedest to get out of our arms. He was also trying to hit me as hard as he could. The medicine confuses kids, and makes them REALLY irritable. I hadn't ever heard him scream like that before, and it scared me. Hearing Sam try to express how strange he felt broke my heart, and knowing there was nothing I could do for him was even worse.

After fifteen or twenty minutes of this, and little to no improvement we decided he wasn't going to settle down there, and figured he needed to be home where he was comfortable. It was within five minutes of being home, that he calmed down completely and then after about an hour he was back to his wild, goofy self!

Naturally, as is the way of Sam, he has actually had one ear infection since the tubes, but it hardly affected him, and he's been pretty great ever since!

A Girl's Night...

2012-01-18T23:21:00.000-08:00

...as told by Instagram

the love we share...

Grandma Mary is a story teller.

Ali is inappropriate, and I'm creepy.

Tiana is pregnant

Carrie is sly.

We are annoying.

And I am pampered.

The End.

The Morn'

2012-01-18T23:17:00.000-08:00

For some reason, the morning hours are happenin' times 'round these parts...

It's a time when Sam feels the most mischievous.

A time for some serious lounging...

testing limits...

goofing around in his crib...

busting out shoes...

cheesing for the camera...

and alone time.

Occasionally it's a time for playing with Nora Girl.

I love that she will wrestle with this boy. Full on pin him down. It's rad.

A new obsession of Sam's is sitting, laying, lounging, and smothering me. There have been countless times that he climbs up on the couch to "snuggle" and I end up with his bum on my face. It's pleasant.

We've nixxed the binki at 18mo when Sam isn't sleeping. It stays in his bed now, and I have to admit I sorta miss it.

Many a morning has been spent gazing upon Addie's picture. She sometimes even eats breakfast with us, because heaven forbid I take it away and pin it back up on the fridge...

What kid wouldn't make dad's laundry basket a play place? Oh, yours wouldn't? Just mine?

Sometimes, we just need a donut and a Diet Coke (for me) for breakfast, so a Crest run in jimjams is the way we roll.

The sippy has taken the binki's place, and unfortunately the kid won't drink anything but milk from it. Well, I'm sure he would drink juice, but we steer clear of it. Pretty sure he gets enough sugar elsewhere!

When Whitney Babysits...

2012-01-18T23:06:00.000-08:00

...she finds my camera in my bag, takes darling pictures of my little boy, and doesn't tell me. Weeks later I get to stumble upon them and fall in love with him all over again.

Job Site

2012-01-18T23:04:00.000-08:00

I may never tire of watching my two boyfriends play around on the jobsite.

November DIY

2012-01-18T23:03:00.000-08:00

Apparently I was feeling crafty (I despise that word, but what else can be used?) in November...

Whitney requested my assistance at her ward's Fantastic Friday night to make a couple of the bracelets I've made over the last while. I actually enjoyed myself, and momentarily felt like it might be fun to attend some of my ward's things. Then...I remembered that I truly live in one of the worst wards. (don't worry, the Bishop admitted others feel the same way)

I jazzed up a couple frames to FINALLY hang up a few prints in Samson's room that I've had lying around for mooooooonths.

Ahhh, the best of all. We have these fantastic built ins that offer a great deal of storage space, but the glass (ahem...plastic) doors don't hide anything at all. I've tried to store things in cute, patterned boxes and such, but that's near impossible and gets expensive. So, after living here for 1.5 years I wisened up and got myself a roll of wrapping paper, and after a little measuring, cutting and taping...

WAH-LAH!

Those Few Hairs He Has...

2012-01-18T22:55:00.000-08:00

Other times, I call upon others to cut my son's hair. I figure someone's got to hold him. Might as well be moi. (He's sort of in love with me)

VERY enthused.

See that expression on his face!? Just thrilled.

What if we called them Mee and Bria?

2012-01-18T22:53:00.000-08:00

Sometimes I am called upon for at-home hair cuts, and when it's these two cuties, it's quite a treat.

Oh, that iPad. How you've changed all our lives.

Discovering Fallen Leaves

2012-01-02T22:40:00.000-08:00

Sam (and Bee) thoroughly enjoyed leaving the house one fall afternoon to find our trees had shed most of their leaves. I love experiencing the world through this little dude's eyes.

Sam & Bee

2012-01-01T22:45:00.000-08:00

Looking back at photos it seems November was a big month for Samson and Bee.

Dressing a Boy

2012-01-01T22:24:00.000-08:00

Is way more fun than I ever imagined.

#lovehim

The Difference Between Little Girls and Boys

2012-01-01T22:20:00.000-08:00

Closing Out Halloween

2012-01-01T22:02:00.000-08:00

Yes, I know...ridiculous I'm this far behind!

Semi craft fail

Loved this punka all month

The most beautiful of pumpkin pancakes

Contemplating the day's events

Duplicate photo, but I couldn't resist

Waiting for the Westridge costume parade

Heading over to trick or treat!

Candy ciggie, cuz why not?

There ya go, we're photo drunk now, but it's over!

There Was This One Night...

2012-01-01T21:39:00.000-08:00

...My insta-friend Lauren drove her hot little booty to Provo from North Salt Lake to spend one last love-filled evening with me, and ChelseaCourtney.

Free JDawgs. All it takes is a little flashing. Of our smiles, you pervs!

Let's Instagram each other, ok?

And then ourselves.

Then shellac our nails!

Did I mention we left the salon at 4 am? Wee hours of the morning are a requirement with this party animal!

Filter This...

2011-12-31T23:41:00.000-08:00

Check it out...just added a link to my Instagram feed. Over on that there sidebar ---->

Hooked 'er up to a tumblr account, cuz I'm cool like that.

Enjoy.

#instagramwhore

18.5 Months

2011-12-30T23:11:00.000-08:00

Just for the record:

Here's some new words Samson says without being asked to repeat after us.

pasta, peacock, bike, bus, fire, frog, pizza, monkey, milk, sheep, donkey, zebra, truck, boots, light, pretty, bonk, binki, mickey, train, baby, nugget (nuggie), fries, cool (also used for "soda"), show (tv show), game, nose, eyes, teeth, up, broke, coat, hot. All I can think of for now!

The other night without promoting he said, "buh-bye Maga" (grandma) and I about died. There are other names he's said alongside buh-bye and it's uh.dorable.

The other night Sam started playing with his letter magnets he got for Christmas and Tadd began asking Sam to repeat the alphabet letter by letter after him. After a few times Tadd would start with "A" and Sam would say "B". Brilliant, I tell you. I'll have to post a video later...

Our downstairs neighbors just had a baby and Sam has started saying "baby down". And apparently "Baby Bit" is much like "Baby Ben" in Sam's mind.

He's also added to his animal noises with hee-haw, neigh (nee), pig snort, and moo.

He is extremely attached to me, and rarely remains composed when I have to leave, even sometimes into the back of the house. Poor kid.

He got ear tubes the day before Thanksgiving (a post for another time), and promptly got an ear infection the week after. Always ill, this little boy of ours. Sucks.

He still loves to be outside, even in the cold and snow, and we often find him trying to escape outside unsupervised.

We love this little monster of ours, and among his tantrums and attitude we enjoy the daily discoveries he's making and his ever-present goofy personality.

Times at the Salon

2011-12-12T09:56:00.000-08:00

I spend many, many hours at the salon these days (which I truly love), whether it's moving up my extensions, coloring my hair once every four months (bless you, ombre), and most often beautifying my clients!

Why do I have extensions, you may ask? I NEED them. See picture below for evidence...(and excuse the gross curls)

Due to the birth of my lovely child, I lost ridiculous amounts of my hair, and although it is growing back, it's at a rate slower than most. I'm not ready to chop my hair off, since it did grow a decent amount while I was pregnant and then for three months after having Sam I had fairly awesome hair...at least for me.

Additionally, I have brought in seven new clients just because of my extensions to give them their own! Walking billboard, I am...if I do say so myself.

Before

After

At the rate I'm doing hair some days, my trusty mug is what gets me through! Filled with The Nectar of the Gods of course!

When one of these two hooligans come in, we force the other to come in as well, whether it's to touch up their hair or not. ALWAYS a good time with Mar and Mal. (Marli is one of these aforementioned new clients.)

Out n' About

2011-12-12T09:46:00.000-08:00

Some fresh air we've enjoyed this late winter season...

What else can I do when the boy wants to go play and all that Grandma has is a puffy, pink coat?

Dino Museum

2011-12-12T09:44:00.000-08:00

Thanksgiving Point with Tysen, Lindey, Kristen Carter and kids!

Looks like a blondie boy to me!

What sign that says, "Do Not Touch"?

Having the time of his life!

Cox Family Halloween Party

2011-12-12T09:31:00.001-08:00

Lindey had looked up a few ideas on Pinterest that she and I put together for the Cox Halloween party, they were a hit!

He's so helpful

Pumpkin Patch and Witches

2011-12-12T09:31:00.000-08:00

We visited the Pumpkin Patch on Geneva with Tysen and the kids one day, and then headed up to SLC to see the witches!

Are my excessive car seat pictures getting annoying yet?

Oh ya, Samson LOVED the witches!

Holding the witch's goose for Samson

Carving Pumpkins

2011-12-12T09:30:00.001-08:00

I need to just post these suckers...I'm SO behind!

Mini PHS Reunion

2011-12-12T09:30:00.000-08:00

Lindsay, Natalie, Meagan and I met up at Nat's place one afternoon to let our kids maul each other so we could catch up!

Apparently we know how to take one kind of picture!

Bear, Hallie and Bryn

The kids were in heaven with all the fun things to play with in the backyard.

Let's not let it be too long before we get together again, got it ladies!?

Mom's Halloween Party

2011-12-08T08:00:00.000-08:00

Mom's annual Halloween party was a hit this year, just as we knew it would be!

Beast, Beauty, 8 ball

Betty and Don Draper

Monster

Lion & Monster

Guy Ferreri

Enjoying his drink at the end of a hard day of juggling two lifes.

Scary-I-Don't-Even-Know...

Silly kids

And my favorite part of the night...

Playing games and enjoying treats!

Guy and Jimmy Dean

Chubby cheeked boy

Dang, I just can't do it...I so badly wanted to post a picture I accidently caught of my dad after mummy wrapping Jack with his pants around his ankles. Seems recent weight loss and silky one-piecers don't mix!

Although Tadd and I won the game, this is definitely an honorable mention!

Sam also won the Guess-the-Candy in the jars at this party, the Cox Halloween party and Adrie's party! That boy is a genius!

Fourth Chick

2011-12-07T23:00:00.000-08:00

This sister number four of mine, fifth in line, is like no other. "The pretty sissy", as we like to call her, is so much more than beauty. Compassionate, charitable, selfless, HILARIOUS, silly, a non-gossip, extreme secret-keeper, devoted, family-centered, dog lover, quirky...would you like me to continue? Words cannot actually express all that this girl is, and how much I love her.

Her paintings are, like herself, alike no other. You need her art. I need her art. The world needs her art.

It's ok, you can hate her because she's beautiful. I do.

Lucky for you, she's running a sale Thursday (12/8) only for 20% off her flower oil paintings. I am absolutely in love with this one, the vivid colors of this one, and the issuing light from this one.

Simply enter Mallory's website, browse through her flower paintings, if there is something you like click the "contact me" tab and fill out the form. Be sure to note the title of the piece you are interested in. Mal will get back to you ASAP to let you know if that piece is still available and it's price.

Really hoping she will someday soon have a BAKE SALE!

Mom and Sam Date

2011-12-05T23:19:00.001-08:00

A flat tire needing patching turned into a little date for Sam and me one day. We walked over to Sunflower Market, where I swear I got anxiety the second I walked in, then down to Plato's closet where I scored a pair of Sperry's in size 14 for $14 that I later sold to an Instagram friend (since I couldn't walk away without grabbing them), then onto Smash Burger and Yogurtland!

Jaker's Pumpkin Patch

2011-12-05T23:15:00.001-08:00

Jaker's Pumpkin Patch in Springville

Didn't think a kid could get more excited spotting a tractor, did ya?

Mornings

2011-12-03T23:11:00.000-08:00

Our mornings typically look like a

smorgasbord of the following...

Sweetest boy. Held my straw for me unprompted.

Enjoys seeing himself on my phone camera.

Sometimes I'll allow whatever for a few minutes of quiet.

We've got a real goofball on our hands.

He loves to run over to the heater when he hears it turn on, and usually grabs his milk, Bee and a blanky and settles in.

Sometimes mornings are tough. For the both of us.

Love observing the little things this fella comes up with.

...like this. DON'T love.

Inventive sippy-drinking

Admiration

Climbing

A healthy (over)dose of fruits

Occasionally a chocolate donut which we get all over ourselves

Parking Garage

2011-12-03T23:04:00.000-08:00

I love seeing the little additions Tadd adds around the house.

How Far Behind Am I?

2011-12-02T22:59:00.001-08:00

Let's play catch-up...meaning the next twenty posts will be fairly captionless and just full of pictures. You'll like it better that way I'm sure.

Cornbelly's

Vi in the corn feed box

There's a little dress up shack, and Sam kept wandering in to play, so I figured a prince shirt would be better than a dress.

Pumpkin princess

Fave pic of the day

Wait, this is my fave pic of the day. Isn't Hells the cutest ever?

We surely enjoyed our time with mom, sissies and cousins at Cornbelly's and will definitely hit this up multiple times next fall!

Nakie Rascals

2011-11-28T12:00:00.000-08:00

I know nakie pictures are taboo and obviously TMI but I couldn't resist. These two went nuts in the tub at my mom's one night, and we had to document. (Hope you don't mind, Haley)

Yes, Sam has discovered a little something at arm's length. (Why oh why is it so easy for him to reach???)

Love these two.

Papa's Punkas

2011-11-27T12:00:00.000-08:00

Tadd's dad grows giant pumpkins every year, and this year he outdid himself! Biggest ones he's grown yet!

He was being punished, or so it seems.

Grif took Sam cruisin' around the cul-de-sac.

All the guys were needed to maneuver them from the garden to the lawn, and then the front porch.

Work it!

Little dude sittin' atop papa's "punkas"

The man himself! Quite proud of his work, as anyone should be!

Dadda's Work

2011-11-21T12:00:00.000-08:00

Sammy and I visit Tadd at work once a week or so, and it always makes for adorable pictures. Sam loves to roam the Covey job site carrying around whatever he finds. Screwdrivers, hammers, bolts, chisels, etc. He also loves to run a little too fast toward the edge to terrify us. Oh, I just love that.

He's made friends with Del, Don and Peter (Tadd's uncle, boss, and Tadd's cousin). I wonder why I bother bringing lunch for Sam when we go visit, since the guys there love to feed him. Cookies, sandwiches, chips, crackers, caffeinated soda...the works. Luckily, he always crashes afterward for a nice long nap.

Nugget in pocket. Of course.

Feeding Shadow string cheese

Stripes...

2011-11-17T22:59:00.000-08:00

...they do a picture good.

So much so that one is just not enough.

BOO!

HEAR YE, HEAR YE!

2011-11-17T09:32:00.000-08:00

SissyMal is hosting a sale on her flower paintings TODAY!

Simply enter Mal's website, browse through her flower paintings, if there is something you like click the "contact me" tab and fill out the form. Be sure to note the title of the piece you are interested in. Mal will get back to you ASAP to let you know if that piece is still available and it's price.

Personally, I think 20% off a one of a kind floral oil painting makes a perfect Christmas gift!

Cutest

2011-11-15T08:00:00.000-08:00

Three generations on the job site

The Witches Take-1

2011-11-14T08:00:00.000-08:00

A slow day in Provo brought us up to Midvale

to see the witches at Gardner Village with Haley and Addie.

We introduced Samson to ketchup after our outing, and suffice it to say it was a hit. His sippy cup even called for a generous dip.

I've got quite the character for a kid.

My Betrothed

2011-11-14T06:00:00.000-08:00

Remember that one time Lauren wooed me, drew me in, claimed that she loved me and then MOVED away!?

Such fond memories of our short time together.

Should've done an outfit change so we could pretend like we hung out more than four times.

A date night with the husbands.

One Hundred Bubble Pictures

2011-11-11T10:00:00.000-08:00

Lindey entertained Sam for like an hour one afternoon with these awesome bubbles from Gymboree. They are super long lasting and sometimes don't pop for hours!

Naturally I took a million photos, so enjoy. Or don't.

Kangaroo Zoo Party

2011-11-10T08:00:00.001-08:00

The dudes turned four this year and had their party at Kangaroo Zoo, which we loved!

Samson and I have been before, but that was a few months ago and this time he really wanted to play and had a great time! We even sent him down the huge slide by himself a couple times!

iPhone flash = sucky pictures

Baby Lucy

I just love how these two play together. And I can't get over Lyla's adorable piggies!

That little Nora girl had just started crawling a few days before this, so we all enjoyed watching her show off her new trick that night too!

Halloween Decor

2011-11-10T08:00:00.000-08:00

I spookified our house this year, and I'm glad I did! Initially I considered not even pulling out my Halloween decorations at all until I realized all I had was a light-up pumpkin and those embroidery hoop things I made last year, and it hit me that I need to make holidays a bigger deal for Samson, and stop being a scrooge!

My favorite detail this year were the crows! Thank you Dollar Tree.

Haley and I got together at her house one night, I put Samson to bed there, and we put together a paper banner! Thank you Pinterest.

Driving home that night was a disaster. What normally takes me 45 min took two freaking hours! Thank you construction all over Utah. Samson finally fell back asleep after an hour and a half, poor kid!

The finished product!

Hmmm...just had a thought...what if I painted our built-ins white?

17 Months

2011-11-09T20:00:00.000-08:00

Our little dude is 17 months today!

There's a few things I wanted to remember about

him during this stage of his little life.

.26 lbs and still has a healthy lookin' belly

.Added the following animal noises to his repertoire: cow, cat, bird, snake, turkey, monster, pig, and santa clause (although not quite an animal)

.Has recently become very attached to a baby doll my mom gave me three years ago and affectionately calls her "Bee". We've given in and let his attachment run wild. And it is adorable.

.Will walk around holding up anyone's phone pointing the camera at his face and says, "cheese!"

.Gets so silly sometimes and has such a funny personality

.Today he threw up twice in his crib (yes, it was such a lovely day), and the second time it happened I heard him chatting in his room, then it was quiet, and after a little bit I heard him say, "Eeewwww". Poor little dude.

.Brings me the remote and says, "choo choo" to watch Chuggington.

.Still loves fruit, and we discovered he loves frozen berries too!

.Doesn't like bread and cheese. So, I suppose that means he's not mine or Tadd's.

.Says, "YAAA!" when I ask him if he wants to brush his teeth.

.Gives loves and kisses when asked for them

.Still has a mark from his giant goose egg that happened over a month ago.

.Learned to jump last week, and if he works really hard at it he can get an eighth of an inch off the ground.

.Has really gotten into climbing this last month, which results in lots of falling.

.Says Nora, Lucy, Shay Shay, Addie, Lindey "Nee", thank you "Q", please "pee", outside "ahside", swing "wing"...and I swear there's more, but I can't think of them.

.Did the sweetest thing one morning. I made us a smoothie, and put two straws in it, and I held his straw while we both drank, and he studied what I was doing, and held my straw for me!

.Loves playing with his cousins

.Still gets needy around me, and sad for a little bit after I leave. And he and his daddy still log some serious bonding time 3 or 4 nights a week.

Goose Egg

2011-11-09T12:00:00.000-08:00

Can you believe the size of this thing!

Please excuse the runny nose. Can't blame him though, right?

One bonk on his wardrobe was all it took, and no lie...30 second later this is what appeared.

And in true boy fashion, he added to it later that evening by falling down my parent's stairs. Bravo!

Down Syndrome Buddy Walk

2011-11-08T12:00:00.000-08:00

An opportunity to show our support and love for these little dolls and so many others AND get a tee shirt? Well, we're there!

Why would Tadd have passed up an opportunity to cruise along on the razor? Oh, he wouldn't.

Even the little monster got a tee shirt!

We love our nieces so much. They truly carry the spirit of Christ with them and we feel so blessed that they are in our lives!

Jumper

2011-11-07T09:00:00.001-08:00

When did he get so ding-dang big?

Nascar, or something, @ BYU

2011-11-07T09:00:00.000-08:00

Haley's father-in-law is an accountant at some firm in some place in some state and does some stuff with taxes and some other stuff with BYU somebodies. See, I really don't know why he was here and with a Nascar driver and car, but we went anyway!

Sam loved it of course.

Little rascals

He could've sat in here all day. Didn't love it when I took him out.

Summer Days at Moms

2011-11-07T08:00:00.000-08:00

A few weeks of the summer were spent doing the following, and I anticipate much of next summer and every one after will be spent the same.

Night with Weenie

2011-11-07T06:00:00.000-08:00

One night, again...eons ago, Samson and I went and chilled with Violet and Whitney while Ethan and the boys were away. We had a grand ol' time!

Met up at Target so the kidlets could munch (I hate that word) on popcorn, and giggle at each other while Whitney and I purchased nonsense.

Cafe Rio! A true testament that it was a Peterson sister night!

Sometimes when the mood is right, the sunlight is perfection, and it's a good hair day...you must.

Welcome home signs. What a stellar mother.

It's Complicated (perfect screenshot right?), Magnum ice cream, and fresh polish.

I failed to mention this night was when my beloved sister, Megan, was in town, as well as my cousin, his wife and kids, and Whitney and I sorta ditched out on the family (our apologies) to hang alone, so they challenged us to a who-is-having-more-fun game. (run on sentence, much?) TPing? Um hello, we win!

Randoms

2011-11-06T21:37:00.000-08:00

Some of my favorite Sammy pics that I can't exclude.

(as if I don't post enough as is)

Peek-a-boo!

Watching cars go by

Just some drivin moccs. He drove to church in honor of them.

Highland Splash Pad

2011-11-06T21:31:00.000-08:00

Oh yes, the following dozen posts or so are eons old...but I'm puttin' them up anyway. Ya know, for the record.

Highland splash pad this summer was graced by our presence. Oh yes, it was. Samson thoroughly enjoyed himself, and we invited along Lauren, Conrad and Scarlet, and well as Haley and Addie, and she invitied friends, who invited friends, who invited friends...oh geez, we are a domino effect.

My pot belly boy

Enjoying some snacks on Haley's blankie

And later, more snacks, again laying down. Who is this kid? I guess the hot cement felt good on his tummy?

Lunch after with Lauren and her kids, who I failed to get pictures with.

Samson lasted until AF and zonked out.

I just don't tire of pics of this kid in his carseat. Clearly.

P.S We've Been Adorablized

2011-11-04T22:40:00.000-07:00

I'm Always the Last to Know

2011-10-30T14:44:00.001-07:00

But we'll just pretend I'm in on the "at this moment" posts that have been circulating my families web logs.

Right about now...

We've got some sick faces at our house.

Samson and Taddson are snoozing, Tadd more so snoring next to me.

I'm lamenting the fact that Sam won't always be my baby, and I sorta hate that.

I have a list of grown-up things to take care of that are a mile long and I'm dreading it.

The heater is humming along and it makes me wonder if Sam is a puddle of sweat in his crib since he has a radiator heater in there as well. I find I sleep better when I'm super warm, maybe he does too?

I'm enjoying my all white walls that I painted Friday night at 11:30.

I'm really enjoying the show Revenge and can't wait to find out if Emily destroys that annoying Tyler's life. And face.

My neck hurts from a kink I must've obtained by falling asleep in the tub last night. Our tub is practically a sardine can so the position I was laying in was quite uncomfortable.

Why was I so tired? Well because the Halloween party Lindey and I directed for the Cox family was a hit! And apparently required more energy than expected.

Researching a pumpkin pancake recipe for tomorrow morning. Gettin' festive here, folks!

Also realizing we have no plans for trick or treating tomorrow night! Who wants company?

First Day at the Pool

2011-10-30T14:07:00.000-07:00

Beautiful view from a beautiful pool!

Mally pullin' out all the stops.

Sam's Parking Spot

2011-10-29T14:07:00.000-07:00

Pool Progress (Belated)

2011-10-27T08:00:00.000-07:00

This post is way late...or early...since we almost didn't believe the pool would ever happen, like a dream!

Back in August, my parents pool was finally completed! Samson and I joined my mom the day the pool liner, and many other things, went in. It was a little surreal watching it all happen!

Samson pitched in a little

And zoomed his truck along with the other machinery.

Then, as all busy little boys should do, he took a little break below the stairs with the stuffed snake and books.

Mom was under the impression the liner was going in a day or so later, so we squealed with joy when the pool guys wheeled out a giant box and unwrapped the liner from inside! Watching how they put it in was pretty cool!

First dip in the pool!

Nielsen's Grove

2011-10-26T06:00:00.000-07:00

Also, awhile back we spent an evening at Nielsen's Grove, a little gem I hadn't yet discovered!

We needed a couple pictures on his Samson sized chair mostly because I can't get over his chubby face.

Tadd had a chance to try out his new birthday boat, and with an audience, none the less!

Shaley found that Lucy thought it was HILARIOUS when she threw bread to the ducks. She was outrageously giggling, it was so cute!

I just love these two

What is cuter than a little boy riding atop his handsome daddy's shoulders with a bird's eye view? (The handsome is really just for me...)

We found a great...uhhh..."splash pad" for the kids to play in

...and be naked in.

Oh wait...

Samson didn't really enjoy the giant swings

But these two little munchkins did!

Miss Nora

Miss Lucy

My babe and I.

Boy do I miss the days of summer

Kangaroo Zoo

2011-10-24T21:00:00.000-07:00

Sam and I took a little trip up to North Salt Lake awhile back to visit Lauren and her kids and play at Kangaroo Zoo.

Sammy caught up on his reading on the way up, and I admired his ability not to get sick in the car while reading. Something he did not get from his mother.

He also stuffed his face the.whole.way.

Kangaroo Zoo was a hit!

As was the frozen yogurt afterward.

Leaving Lauren behind is like leaving behind a part of my soul!

Sushi and Splash Pad

2011-10-13T10:00:00.000-07:00

I've been so lucky to meet a new friend a few months ago, and via Instagram, none the less. Her name is Lauren. My Lauren. That's what I shall call her.

Our first official rendezvouz outside of the salon was at Riverwoods with our kidlets, minus one of her two kids.

Samsy and I goofed around in the car while we waited for Lauren.

Took a little jaunt around the parking lot

After a truly haneous lunch at Happy Sumo with my child who refused to sit in his chair, keep his food on the table, or speak with an inside voice, we let the kids play in one of the splash pads and did our best to keep them occupied while we chatted.

Luckily Tadd was actually down the way at another restaurant, so I was able to drop Sam off for a few minutes so I could finish my lunch. TGFH (thank goodness for husbands)

Showing Scarlet the ropes

Except it turned out that she was more adventureous that he was!

And then who can resist a shirtless baby in a carseat!?

So, basically what happens when two girls who have a ridiculous amount in common and both enjoy a good time hang out??? Oh goodness!

Goofin' Around

2011-10-11T08:00:00.000-07:00

It's no secret I take way too many pictures, and catalog way too many of them, but with a face like the one below...can ya blame me?

I have to admit watching Sam grab both of the giraffes out of the toy bin, I thought it was a stroke of genius.

Sammy and his daddy love to goof around, and they do it better than any father and son I know.

Exhibit B: Eating dad's sour patch kids.

Priceless

Botany Pond

2011-10-09T20:57:00.000-07:00

Looking back at these pictures really makes me miss HOT weather!

We headed to the BYU Botany Pond one Sunday with Tadd's family to feed the ducks, although they weren't interested in food. Seems they're a bit overfed...

Reeeal excited about the ducks and turtles

They've recently redone this area on campus and it's really pretty!

The cheesy smiles from this little girl never get old!

My Birthday via Instagram

2011-09-28T12:00:00.000-07:00

Lunch with my boyfriends

Tuckered the bebe out

Birthday pedicure

Happy Sumo with Taddow

Then a movie

And the one thing I asked for for my birthday was delivery of our hand-me-down bed, and I got it! We're one step closer to a grown up looking bedroom!

Heber Camping

2011-09-27T14:55:00.000-07:00

Earlier this month we spent the night at the Heber Campsite that the church owns with Tadd's family. Let me just be clear from the beginning, I am not a camper. Not my thing, and actually not really Tadd's thing. As for Samson, he loved it. Aside from it being the worst night for him, sleeping wise.

He was already feeling a little under the weather, so the 40 degree temperature and the rain didn't help matters. He basically spent the entire night coughing and waking up, as well as waking up everyone else in the cabin. It was delightful. On the upside, it was the first time Samson has fallen asleep in our bed since he was only weeks old, and I absolutely loved that.

Aside from all of that misery we did enjoy our time around the campfire, grubbin' it, decorating our family flag, lots of laughs, good food and each others company!

Samson enjoyed wandering around, getting away with whatever, and being doted on by family. He also said, "please" for the first time! You can bet I've been requiring he rehearse that day in and day out!

Recap

2011-09-19T22:18:00.001-07:00

I should do this more often. I want to remember my life as it is now, and the little things we enjoy.

Woke up at 6:15 to a crying child. "Wah? Huh? Is that ours?" Of course. No other babies/kids in the house. That unsightly hour of the day just leaves me disoriented.

Tried to let him cry it out, realized he may have messed his drawers, had to check on him, gave him some milk and Tylenol (teething and goose egg) then laid him back down.

You'd think my caring nature and kind gestures would've calmed him right down and clued him in it wasn't time to wake up, but no. Had to get up with him at 7:30. This is unacceptable in our home. 8:00 and no earlier.

Punished him by taking a little nap on the couch after feeding him breakfast and scattering snacks about the house. He didn't understand this discipline tactic, and instead insisted on throwing books at my head and rubbing his snot nose on my arm.

Somehow willed myself to get off the couch around 10, and semi-reddied myself. Threw my hair into a headband for no heat curls (I'll clue you in later), dressed myself and Sam after changing messy diaper #3, and headed "ahhhside" for a quick "wing" for Sam on the porch swing, and then errands.

Hit up Crest first for my DC and crumb donuts. Priorities, people. Allowed the Crest girl to fawn over my DIY washer and ribbon bracelet while I ever so modestly blushed. Almost offered to make her one then thought that might be taking our relationship a little far.

Macy's for dinner fixin's. Had a little help from a friend since I'm a hot mess in the kitchen. Discovered Sam likes rice cakes, picked up a bag of those too.

Headed to Peerless after for Moroccan Oil S&C for sister Whit and I to share, then Target for empty bottles to split them up.

Adored my little boy as he said, " hi" and "buh-byes" to other Target patrons, and silently cursed all of them for not stopping to "ooh" and "ahh" over this ever so adorable and friendly child. Don't they want a picture? A snotograph? (Golly gee, I'm brilliant.)

Back home for lunch, naptime, bracelet making (who am I?), and dinner making (WHO AM I!?). I didn't stop
At Crest for a refill, and regretted it 30 min later.

Samson ate his lunch out on the "wing" while he admired all the "caws" driving by. Bike, motorcycle, truck, scooter, stroller. All cars.

During naptime I watched a little Sunny in Philly and made Whitney a bracelet. Purple ribbon, just as she demanded. Not requested, demanded.

Also took out my headband to reveal my...frizzy curls. Turns out air dried, already frizzy, moussed up hair doesn't work as well for this. I've had more success in the past with blow dried, many days dirty hair. Ah well. Threw it up on a Pinterest inspired braid knot, and finally put on some make up. So unlike me to wait that long, but what's a girl supposed to do when her whole day has been corrupted by a 6:15 wake up call?

Dinner was a success only because I had assistance even though Sam ruined our afternoon by taking only an hour long nap. Who does this kid think he is? All was well since he entertained himself by emptying Tadd's fridge pack of DMD and stacking the cans (oh the brilliance!), then dropping them in the space between our bedroom door and the baby gate. He was quite proud of himself. And I must admit, so was I.

Tadd asked why I let him do that and I wondered how he could even question that. Child entertained. No danger. Out of the way. Plus he shook up a few cans just for good measure.

Off to the salon to cut Meg C's hair, via Crest. Got to see her adorable belly, and catch up. Always a pleasha. Whitney arrived next accompanied with a fresh DC and dinner, (per my request in case mine was a flop). Now I have lunch for tomorrow!

Enjoyed our ever rambunctious behavior and conversation while taking her hair from a summery golden brown with blonde highlights to a deep brown with a tint of red. I tried our new color line, Keune, and we were both pleased with it's success. The pearly sheen! So lovely. I also used her new shampoo and conditioner on her and instructed her how to properly wash and condition her hair. What a cave woman.

After getting home I promptly plopped my tired self on our bed, realized I should change into my jimjams, did so, and haven't moved since. Tadd has come in to kiss me goodnight and I'd imagine he'll be in soon to watch Sunny. I want to be asleep, but awoken by him asking to cuddle with him. Then I'll fall back asleep on his chest. Aren't we so picturesque?

Family Pictures

2011-09-09T06:00:00.000-07:00

All photos courtesy of Stott Photography

Taken at the Springville Art Museum in July

Once again, a million-picture-post

Grandma and Papa with their 15 grandkids (16 & 17 ETA Feb 2012)

The whole family

Three cheers for the best color combo. Yes??? Amirite???

Our handsome boy who is 15 months today. A few things about him...

.Started saying monkey, cars, bubble, pop, bite, baby, binki

.Likes to feed himself from a fork we've put food on

.Has mastered going up and down stairs, and has only fallen down a full flight once!

.Also fell into the pool once when he thought he could just climb in like he'd go down stairs

.Says what a monkey and snake say

.Has just started stacking his toys

.He loves to play, play, play. If he's been fed, and rested he'll wander around the house playing with his toys and reading his books for hours.

.Loves to jump and land on his bum, no matter where he is. His bed, the couch, hardwood floor, the bath, concrete, etc.

.Anticipates us saying, "1, 2, 3" before jumping onto his bum.

Papa and Grandma

Chris, Tysen, Ava, Crew, Griffin, Lyla

Mia, Kris, Adrie, Kyra, Bree, Kecia (+one AND TWO)

Madi, Rick, Mazie, Lacey, Andrew, Ellie

Me, Samson, Tadd

Shaley, Roman, Lucy

Corbin, Lindey, Nora

And since this is my blog, I get to put multiple pictures up of my little fam. So there.

Samson was less than enjoyable during most of the shoot, and later threw up while swinging on the porch. Guess that's why he was so irritable??? Hmmm...

All the adults. Taken right after I fell on my face, and was mocked for my extensions. What? I have extensions!?!?!?

Leishman kids

Cox kids

Our little Downsy girls!

Cousin love

Just a super sweet picture of these three

This little girl has some serious giggles!

Is my baby obsession apparent? Can't imagine why...

Love these two boys

Thanks Peter!

"We're Goin' to the Zoo, Zoo, Zoo. How 'bout You, You, You?"

2011-09-08T12:00:00.000-07:00

My mom took us girls that were available and the kids to the zoo one afternoon. The kids were troopers which always determines whether we enjoy the activity or not. At least for me...

Our first stop was the bird show, which was so neat! We happened to sit in the perfect spot where a few of the bigger birds flew directly over. I swear if we hadn't ducked (ha, get it!), we would've been clocked by the owl a number of times.

The water from the tiger's pool comes right up to the glass you stand at, and we got to see the tiger cooling himself off which was pretty cool. And now you've fallen asleep since this post is soooo entertaining.

My favorite animal! But they're a little boring. So why do I like them so much?

I sat between Adds and Samson on the way home to my mom's and did my best to keep them both awake. Success.

Is it just me or is my child in just a diaper more often than not? Again...WT 4 Life.

Addie's B-Day

2011-09-06T15:00:00.000-07:00

My little niece, Addie, turned two and her mom and dad put together a great little party at the park! This post is really just a gazillion pictures of the celebration with minimal captions...

Haley Homemaker whipped up this banner and these cupcakes!

Auntie M and her mad skills are responsible for the majority of these pics.

Whit and Vi

Two hooligans

The dainty little miss and her new puzzle.

New lippies

Tickle guy and little hippo teeth

Who doesn't love having a ball chucked at their head?

New baby doll, whom she insisted be undressed within 5 minutes.

Giving thank you hugs

Such a beauty

My favorite pic of the day!

Enjoying the cupcakes

So much so, that clothes became optional

Our barrel chested boy

WT 4 Life

Second fave

So happy to call these two family

Wouldya look at that pregnancy glow!

Goodbyes are never easy

For reals

Happy Birthday Addison Michelle!

Little Bits

2011-08-26T13:18:00.000-07:00

I've become an phone camera whore, and more importantly, an Instagram whore. So, unfortunately none of these pictures were taken with my real camera, therefore resulting in the poorish quality.

Mallory and her niece, Lucy, came over to bbsit one day, Lucy dressed to the nines, and when Samson woke up from his nap he immediately donned her feather boa. I find it quite becoming.

"Westward Ho!"

I just love to watch him sleep. Like, I'm creepy or something.

Oh, he's just brilliant. NBD.

I think we've discovered our little bug is allergic to milk. I took him off of it for a week, and just gave him soy milk. Then after about a week I was at my MIL's and I didn't have soy milk to give him before his nap, so I figured it would be as good a time as any to test our theory. Two hours after giving it to him, he woke up upset, and within 15 minutes had started throwing up. It just killed me to hold him and feel his poor little body shake and heave as he threw up. The above picture was taken before he threw up. Doesn't he look sad next to Papa's homemade root beer?

It took me about half an hour to calm him down afterward, and then he fell asleep on me, which is a sure sign he feels like CRAP. I have to admit I did love lying there rocking him as he slept. Reminded me of his newborn days.

Doesn't he just look miserable??? I just hate sickness.

His new "whoa" face

Enjoys SYTYCD just like his momma

First nap in his big boy car seat. I took this pic at a stop light after leaving Riverwoods, and then noticed he was headless about a mile down the road on University Ave, so I glanced back at him to see that his head had just flopped down, and then........I rear ended the car in front of me. Awesome.

Let's just say I'm grateful for no harm done to any passengers in either car, (although the hit did jolt Samson awake which scared the poor little dude), finding out the girl I hit is my good friend's sister in law (!), honest car mechanics, car insurance, no damage to the other car, tail hitches, only a $500 deductible, and my trade (knockin' $100 off and trading for hair). $4,000 worth of damage later...and all is well.

Fourth of July Part IV

2011-08-22T13:20:00.000-07:00

Just a lonely draft I forgot to post!

Dinner at Tadd's parents, testing his limits with the waterfall in the backyard, watching the Cul-De-sac of fire grand finale, a nakie bum (couldn't resist)

Festive wear!

It was a stripe infested holiday! Another reason it's my favorite holiday!

Wrappin' up July

2011-08-22T12:50:00.000-07:00

Our month of July as told by Instagram

It's a Create-Your-Own-Captions sort of post

The Little One

2011-08-10T22:05:00.001-07:00

14 months. For reals? It's wild how fast time goes by. Cliche, as that might sound. I've started to stress that I'm going to forget things Samson has started doing, and when he did them, so here's a little "for the record" type of post.

.Recently started hiding behind corners and coming out from behind them saying "BO!" Not "boo", "bo"!

.Also says cookie, hi, bye, woah, wow, Lyla, papa, mama, dada, thanks, baby, book, bonk

.Has begun to repeat and mimic a lot of sounds and actions

.When asked what a lion, dog, sheep or duck says he says roar, bow-wow-wow-wow, baaaaa (this has actually turned into haaaahaaahaaaa), and cack-cack

.Has discovered he can screech among the best of them, and performs this "talent" of his o.f.t.e.n. It's getting so bad that I have to leave stores early because I'm so embarrassed. It's really tough to ignore in public when everyone is staring at me wondering why I haven't slapped the kid yet. Our newest thing has been spraying him with a water bottle when he screeches. Yes, much like a puppy dog. So far, he just says "whoa" and laughs. Tadd said he discovered how to spray the bottle tonight and sat there soaking himself for 10 minutes. Something tells me this discipline technique will not be fruitful.

.He loves fruit, and it can be a battle to get him to eat anything else. Except for the fruit puffs. He'd eat a whole container of those in one day if I'd let him.

.He's super active, and can't even stand to swim for more than 5 minutes at a time since he'd rather be exploring around the pool.

.Is perfectly content to sit in his crib for 15-20 min with his books while I get ready in the morning. He especially likes to jump in it and land on his bum.

Will probably add to this later on, that's all I can think of for now!

Fourth of July Part III

2011-08-03T06:00:00.000-07:00

Clearly the fashion theme for the weekend was stripes (as I feel every day should be).

We went to my parents on Sunday for some good ol' fashioned family fun. My parents had flown Lauren in from Reno, and were so excited to spend time with her, as were we! Aunt Lo had really missed little Sam, so I tried to dump him on her for the evening, but she had other plans with her friends. Geeeeez!

Tadd took Samson on his first 4-wheeler ride, which he loved (contrary to what his face might express). I tried making him wear a helmet, but the weight of it on his head was too heavy, and his head slowly drooped down until it was resting on the quad in front of him. It was hilarious, but I felt too inhumane leaving it on there long enough to get a picture.

Also, I had festive nails. Yay me!

Fourth of July Part II

2011-07-30T15:13:00.000-07:00

Saturday evening was spent down at the Provo High football practicing field waiting for the Stadium of Fire fireworks, as is tradition.

Tadd's parents brought down their pool trampoline for the kids to play on, and also a pack-n-play for any babies that might fall asleep. Lately Samson has loved to play in his crib, so he was content to hang out in there for awhile and play. Naturally, he wanted to sport some sweet shades as well.

The firework show was one of the best I'd seen the SOF do in a long time, so waiting until 10 PM was totally worth it!

Four Parts of the Fourth

2011-07-28T21:42:00.001-07:00

What a holiday! Stretched out over the weekend; we were more than exhausted once it was all over.

The 4th has always been my favorite holiday, but I quickly realized this year that having a kid definitely put a hampering on festivities, and it's so easy to get stressed out with the details and traditions. I just need to remind myself to let my hair down and ENJOY!

We kicked off the weekend on friday night at Chris and Tysen's gorging ourselves on quintessential summer sweets and treats and enjoying fireworks.

As I write this post, my heart is heavy for Chris and Tysen and his family. Chris' dear father, Larry, passed away last night. Although he's struggled with health issues the last few months his death was such a shock, and I cannot even imagine the heartache his sweet wife and kids are experiencing. As someone who has only known him about ten years, and has only experienced a small amount of the love, kindness and generosity he had to offer, I am so sad, so I cannot imagine what they are going through.

Larry was somewhat of a second dad to Tadd, and was there for him a lot in his teenage years. Larry is a lot of the reason Tadd made it as far as he did with his golf career, and I cannot thank him enough for all the support and encouragement he gave to Tadd over the years. He has deeply influenced Tadd, and will be sorely missed by the both of us.

Samson really enjoyed the little push car, and beeped that little horn to his heart's content!

Every time I turned around, Samson had something new in his mouth. Whether it was watermelon, ice cubes, sno cones or popcorn, he was well fed that evening and happy as a clam!

We were the party poopers of the evening, and left before dark. I figured missing one night of fireworks to put Samson down for the night at a decent time was well worth it, so we weren't dealing with a grouchy monster all weekend!

Midway Cabin

2011-07-19T06:00:00.000-07:00

A couple weeks ago the girls and kids headed up to the Coxes cabin in Midway for a week of mountain air, crafting and good times.

Samson and I only went up one night, since I'm at the salon most nights. We went up with Shaley and Lucy on Wednesday without the intention of staying over, but Kecia coerced us into staying. And besides, before we knew it we had chatted and played so long it was late and dark out, and the canyon is pretty scary at night!

The kids love to mattress surf at the cabin, so I sent Samson down with Mazie a couple times to see what he thought of it. No change in expression. Sometimes this kid is SO his father.

Shaley, Lucy and I went down to a cute fabric store/boutique and a bakery Wednesday afternoon for a little outing. It was Lucy's first time in an umbrella stroller; she looks so tiny!

Sam loved to roam around the cabin getting into things we shouldn't, of course, and playing out on the back deck. The surroundings are so beautiful up there, and it was so nice falling asleep to the sound of the river below the cabin through my open window.

Unfortunately my sleep was short-lived. Sam decided to wake up at 4 AM, he doesn't do so well when he isn't in his own bed, so I tried to let him soothe himself back to sleep, but he wasn't having it, so in hopes that he wouldn't wake anyone else up, I picked him up only to find out he had soaked through his diaper, pajamas and sleepsack, and he was freezing from being wet. It was a nightmare trying to get him into new clothes, give him a bottle, and get him back to sleep all while trying not to wake anyone else up in the nearby rooms and in the family room. Then by the time we were back in our room, I had to sneak around in the dark and lie very still so he wouldn't know I was in his room with him.

Samson loves cousin Madi, and the two of them always have a great time together. She is also always such a great help to me!

Giving grandma a brief cuddle before bed.

Poor Bug

2011-07-16T06:00:00.000-07:00

Our poor little bug has asthma. Whether it's cold induced, allery induced, or just plain asthma, it still just makes me sad!

We've got ourselves a nebulizer now, which is loads of fun since it's basically a wrestling match for five minutes when trying to give Samson a breathing treatment. Here's to hoping he only has bouts like this a few times a year!

Be Still My Heart

2011-07-15T06:00:00.000-07:00

This is quite possibly the cutest thing I've ever seen my little munchkin do.

Vegas Round Two

2011-07-14T06:00:00.000-07:00

I am a spoiled, spoiled brat. Two trips to Vegas in two months? Granted this second one was for a hair show (hello tax write off), but it was still enjoyable. I am incredibly fortunate to work with great people who I geniuenly enjoy being around.

Driving down to The Vegs with Chelsea and Julie. Oh, you don't know this slang? It's totes all the rage.

We stayed at my friends, Jessie and Erica's, house Friday night and stayed up into the wee hours of the night acting like three girls in high school, giggling and chatting.

First item of business on Saturday? Hit the pool, of course. My goodness, Vegas produces some real weirdos. We had the pleasure of watching two strangers meet up at the bar and dirtily dance together. All the while in bathing suits, might I add. Guh-ross.

Saturday evening was shopping at the Forum shops and Cheesecake Factory. Isn't it glorious that H&M doesn't close until midnight!?

I want this elephant.

Hair show the next day, which was loads of fun. We attended a few classes, learned some new techniques, and explored all the booths. And yes, I witnessed a Nick Arrojo hair cut. I looked all around for Stacey and Clinton, but was disappointed to see that the three of them just aren't a packaged deal.

We were completely overwhelmed with the number of feather, tinsel and bling extension booths. Did I say overwhelmed? I meant disgusted. I basically want to rip these out of every head I see.

Dinner that night with all the stylists. See why I freaking love these girls?

We returned home on Monday, and the next day I couldn't keep this little one off of me, it was pretty much the most adorable thing.

Pool Prep

2011-07-11T06:00:00.000-07:00

Summer...the most glorious time of the year.

BBQs, 4th of July, sun tans, sno cones, watermelon, diet coke (year round)...ahhh I could just keep going and going.

But what's summertime without a pool!? (Sorry Mom. Soon, very soon), and what's a pool without a proper cleaning? So the Cox family gathered together one Saturday (oh wait, I wasn't there. I'm useless when it comes to physical labor, OR actually I was at the salon), and helped Papa Steve get the pool and backyard ready for summer enjoyment!

Miss Mia is HOME!

2011-07-04T23:00:00.000-07:00

Our newest niece is finally home!

After six months of planning, waiting, fundraising, praying and longing, and five weeks of Kris and Kecia away from home and family in Eastern Europe...they are finally home with little Mia.

She is the sweetest little thing, and such a joy to be around. We find ourselves just watching her every move; she is so dainty and full of life! It's so fun to be a part of her new life, and be able to experience some of her "firsts" in this new world she is experiencing.

We were able to catch glimpses of her perfect little personality and sense of humor through Kecia and Kris' blog while they were overseas, and boy was it just a tiny peek. She has so much to offer in this new world, and we couldn't have been prepared for what a little angel she truly is!

Awaiting their arrival! The tears started flowing even just when we saw their flight had landed (as Adrie points out above); we just knew we'd all be such a mess when they walked through those doors! The anticipation was almost tangible!

It was so neat seeing Kris and Kecia reunite with their three girls, and introduce them to their new sister! I so admire my BIL and SIL, and all they have done to raise awareness and give a litle girl a home and an eternal family!

A couple videos definitely worth watching!

Gotcha Day

Homecoming Day