The Richards' Clan

Too braid or not to braid

2011-04-07T14:39:00.000-07:00

So Halle and I wanted to try her hair in braids to see how it would look crimped style. We will put this one out to jury. Here is her with the braids all in her head and the result of it the next morning. I think we will stick with her beautiful curly hair. Oh well, it was worth a try of something new.

The result

Berkeley update

2011-04-04T13:20:00.000-07:00

Here are some random but new thoughts I have about Berkeley and her growth. Berkeley got her second tooth today. She loves to eat big people food especially pasta and homemade sweet potato fries. She loves to make a mess while she is eating. The more that is on her face the better. She LOVES the bath and splashing in the bath. (which is a good thing after her eating habits) She doesn't like to be put down on her back... until she realizes I am changing her then she is ok. She loves when her brother and sister come home from school and dote over her. She is content to sit in one spot for the most part until she finds he way down to start to roll then she is all over the place. She does get up and rock back and forth but no crawling yet. I bet by the time she is one she will be crawling. She hates the initial part of being put in her car seat. She still loves her binky. She loves to give a cheeser smile and blink her eyes. It is adorable! She loves paper and would eat it every chance she gets. Everything in sight goes in her mouth, even when I think the floor is clean she finds something to eat.
So there it is! She is growing up way to fast so we just enjoy every moment and stage we can.

Enjoying splashing herself like crazy

I swear some of the food went in her tummy.

Berkeley finding the little plastic thing on the drawer so. She has great eyes that spot everything. She is determined to get it in her mouth.

Isn't she the cutest girl ever?!?!?

On the move.

April Fools

2011-04-01T13:10:00.000-07:00

So have you ever been fooled by your kids for April Fools? Well, Austin got me this year. He got up and was getting ready and kept asking me to do his hair. This should have been the first clue because usually he does it or doesn't (its a 9 year old boy thing). So I sprayed his hair with the water bottle and then went to comb it and it felt dirty so I asked him what was in his hair. He told me, "milk." I was wondering how and why he would put milk in his hair so I combed it and moved onto Halle. It was not until the spray was white that I noticed that the milk was in the water bottle. We got a good laugh out of this one this year. Good thinking Austin! He is always keeping me on my toes.

Berkeley is 9 months

2011-03-13T15:22:00.000-07:00

We went to the doctor for Berkeley's 9 month checkup. She came in at a big 15.5 pounds. She is in the 2% for her weight. Low but the good side is we are still on the charts. She was 27 1/2 inches long. She is a healthy, happy little girl!

They score a Superior!

2011-03-13T15:18:00.001-07:00

Halle and Austin participated in Music Festival this year. They have to learn two piano pieces and then are judged on them by a judge. They go in a room with the piano and the judge and them and play their piece. This year both of them scored a Superior! (which is the best you can receive). Halle received a perfect score of 50 and Austin a 47. I love seeing the confidence that comes from them working hard and achieving a goal.

It is finally here!

2011-02-25T15:22:00.000-08:00

Berkeley finally had her first tooth break the surface. She keeps moving her tongue over her lip to see why it feels different. She will realize that sucking/biting on her own fingers will start to hurt a little bit. I learned that the hard way when I tried to fish out food of her mouth. She thinks that she needs to eat anything and everything we are eating until she realizes that she cannot chew it. It is always amazing to me to see how much they can gum food though.

Visitors for the holiday weekend

2011-02-18T15:27:00.000-08:00

Aunt Em, Grandma, Carter and Wrigley came to visit us over the Presidents day holiday. The kids were so excited to have them here. Carter informed me that we either need to move closer or they need to live by us because the drive is too long. They always play so well and love to be together. We spent the weekend going to Austin's basketball game, going to the movies to see the Beiber movie (it wasn't as bad as I thought it would be), eating lots of good food, and playing games. I forgot to add this video clip. The kids were doing skits for us. They had a blast doing them so I had to post one to share. The weekends are never long enough and time always flies by but one thing is for sure we always have a great time! Thanks for visiting.

Austin gets his Bear

2011-02-16T19:27:00.000-08:00

Tonight at the Blue and Gold Banquet, Austin received his Bear award. He was so excited to get his award a little before his birthday. Now we can have time to work on all the many electives they have. We are so proud of him and his desire to do it.

Valentines Day

2011-02-15T15:37:00.000-08:00

Valentines Day at our house always starts with a big breakfast of waffles, strawberries and whip cream. This year we topped it off with a little bacon and orange julius. The kids got there valentine from Mom and Dad and were off to have a fun day at school. I had a busy day of prep for our big restaurant plans. The kids and I came up with a plan to surprise Lowell for Valentine's Day. We gave him a card in the morning that said he had a dinner reservation at 5:30. Little did he know the reservation was right here at home. When he came home from work Austin took his coat and sat us at our candlelit table (in our room) where they proceeded to serve us our meal. Austin did a great job of being the waiter. He was so proper and even came up with wearing his suit coat to look nice. Halle was in the kitchen getting it all ready. (yes Mom I trained them so they would not burn themselves.-Lowell had the same concern). Halle had also helped me make a menu and sign for our restaurant. They called it Ricardos, which was one of their previous restaurant names during their creative play. It was so nice to sit alone and in almost peace and quiet and enjoy a meal with my favorite man. The kids loved doing it and even cleaned the dishes up and put them away. We then shared dessert together and watched a fun movie together. There is nothing better than spending the day with the ones you love.

Kodak Moment

2011-02-13T15:34:00.000-08:00

So the other day Berkeley was eating and I captured the perfect poo face. I think it explains it all.

Berkeley and all her new things

2011-02-10T10:04:00.000-08:00

I can't believe how little ones change so much. Berkeley is now eight months old and cute as ever. She has learned to say.... Mum, mum. She also loves to take her baths. She will splash herself uncontrollably. She loves her baby food and would get rid of the whole nursing gig. I will be glad when we can have cows milk. She loves to do a bitter beer smile that just makes you laugh. She gives a stare down that reminds me of her sister. She has started to sleep on her belly and I love it because she is sleeping so much better. Why does it make such a difference?!?!? She laughs when we laugh and thinks she is so funny. She LOVES her binky. There is no way I can get rid of that anytime soon. We are still waiting for that first tooth to break through..it seems like I keep saying anyday now but no it hasn't happened but is taking FOREVER. But best of all she has a smile that will melt your heart. She is such a happy little girl and brings so much joy to our crazy lives. I have to keep reminding myself to sit and enjoy her as a little one.

Sickness

2011-02-06T19:37:00.000-08:00

I can't remember a time that sickness has knocked out my whole family. This week I had Austin, Halle, Jett and Lowell home sick for three days. They all started with a fever, chills, cough and aches. It was nice to get it all at once and be done with it. Thank goodness that Berkeley and I never received the junk. We have been lucky. I think I am ready for Spring.

Teeth Issues

2011-01-26T20:17:00.000-08:00

Well, we have had a interesting week with teeth. Halle has had her front teeth loose for a long time and they started to move and look TERRIBLE. I have pictures to prove the look. I want to share the stages with you. After weeks of begging to pull her teeth out, it finally sunk in that we could do it or should I really be honest and say that she got sick of us calling her a beaver. (I know rude huh, coming from her family.) So she let me wrap floss around her tooth. One came out one night and then the next night we did the other one. She is now toothless but looks so much better. She realizes that having them out feels so much better then trying to eat around them.

The Beaver look.

The Pirate Look.

Toothless.

A trip to Jackson over Christmas Break

2010-12-29T08:43:00.000-08:00

We have these great friends that have a luxurious cabin (house) in Jackson Hole. They called us at the last minute and invited us to go up and spend the new year with them. Lowell took the Austin and Halle skiing one day at the Jackson Hole ski resort while I stayed behind with the little ones. They had a blast even though it was cold.
The next day we decided that we would go to the rec center and let the kids swim. Jackson has a great rec center with indoor slides and shallow water for the little ones. We had a blast swimming and playing in the water. I couldn't believe how warm the water was, in fact, you wondered if you should be worried.
We rang in the new year with blow horns, confetti poppers and tiaras. We played the its midnight but really 9 for the little ones. We had a great time relaxing, playing games, eating good food and sharing great company.
A side note... the scenery on the way to Jackson was beautiful. We sure live in a great place. If you have never had a chance to see the tetons in the winter you should do it.

I pulled off the surprise for Christmas...

2010-12-26T19:31:00.000-08:00

I can't believe that I actually surprised Lowell for Christmas. He is always doing things for me that I can't believe and love but me on the other hand am the more practical one so I don't so much. He has been wanting some new snow skis for the past couple years as he takes the kids up the slope and spends most of January skiing with them. SO this year I decided to splurge and buy some good ones for him. We went looking in Utah and the ski swaps and then he did his research and I just kept my ears and eyes open to what he really wanted. I had a little help from our buddies at the ski store who kept them hidden until Christmas eve. They also helped me throw Lowell off by telling him the ski he wanted was sold out and would not be able to get anymore in so Lowell had come to conclusion they would not be here Christmas morning. (ha ha) I was more excited for Christmas morning just to see his face and excitement. He was surprised and he wondered where I had hid them and got them in without him knowing. Thank goodness that he NEVER goes in Berkeley's closet unless I ask him to get a new pack of diapers. Perfect hiding place now spoiled because he will remember to look there in years to come. Well probably not because he is not a snooper ... that would be me!

Who seems more excited Lowell or Austin?!?!

The Happy Man! He deserves it.

Christmas Morning

2010-12-25T13:49:00.000-08:00

It is here... It came so fast and is over so fast. This year we have many fun stories to share but the best was Austin. I have never seen him so excited for Christmas. The kids drew maps of strategy to get to the presents, The kids all slept together in Jett's room and at 4:30, yes I said 4:30 in the morning, Austin decided it was time to get up and wake up his siblings. They went out into the family room to see that their stockings were filled and Santa had been here. Well, I woke up and made sure that the other two kiddos got back snuggled in their beds because I knew we would be in BIG trouble. There was no convincing Austin to go back (threatened with his life though if he came to us before 7) so he stayed awake watching tv, playing the wii but best of all organizing the presents into piles of whose they were. We came down to the basement being in organized chaos. The best part was that Grandma and Grandpa slept through the whole thing!
Santa was good to us and we have been very blessed this year. Here are a few pictures of the fun we had Christmas morning.

The chaos I was referring to.

Christmas morning sporting their new jammies.

Jett opening his new cars. Notice the facial expression - good thing I got him to go back to bed it could have been worse.

Berkeley loving the paper and Grandma helping Jett.

Our silly boy who is always filled with surprises.

Grandpa, Berkeley and Mom.

Austin opening up Grandpa's present and wondering why he got no noise headphones. Grandma might regret this purchase, because he does a great job of zoning into lala land.

Halle always smiling.

Christmas Eve

2010-12-24T13:29:00.000-08:00

Christmas Eve was full of traditions and surprises. We got our tradition dinner on its way and then we usually go off to a movie while it all cooks. Well, this is where the surprise comes in. We were getting ready to leave when a knock comes at the door. Who do you think it was!?!?!?! Grandma and Grandpa Cederholm bearing gifts. Halle answered the door and I don't think she knew what to think. Then Austin came around and was surprised (I think his response was worth their drive) The kids couldn't believe that they were here to spend Christmas with us.
We had decided that we would see Tangled. It was Good! We got home from the movie and dinner was ready to go. So we ate, read the Christmas Bible story, and opened our Christmas jammies. The kids then put together the plate for Santa and headed off to bed.

I think Berkeley loved the paper more than the gifts..Surprise ... is she under one or what.

We were so exciting that we put Padre to sleep.

I can't believe that I didn't capture one picture of my parents Christmas Eve, sorry Mom! Let me know if you have any and share.

Dancing December

2010-12-15T14:50:00.000-08:00

Halle loves to dance! December was a busy month for her, she had a clogging performance at the mall and also performed with the Highland High School Lassies at a half time show for a basketball game. Here are some pictures of her performances.

Halle received first place at the Lassie camp. She received this because the HHS dancers thought that she was one of the best dancers in her age group.

Halle with her friend, Kaylee, showing off their winnings. They had a blast together doing this.

With her clogging team practicing. They do a Grease number and it is sooo cute!

Part 2 to Creative Fun

2010-12-08T16:46:00.000-08:00

This goes with the creative fun post. I didn't realize that I had taken these pictures. Here is the kids playing cafe.

The customer (along with Mom and Dad)

Our meals.. I don't think we left hungry.

The waitress welcoming us to their restaurant.

The cook.

Creative Fun

2010-12-08T13:29:00.000-08:00

So I have to brag about my kids because I think they have come up with the cutest creative things to play together. It usually occurs on Sunday when they realize that no electronic devices can be used but it has happened on other days as well. So here are a few examples of things they have come up with.
They have played yard sale where they have come up with things (toys or artwork of their own) to sell and set up the family room with check out centers and all. Of course, Lowell and I had to pay them for all their artwork.
They have set up the basement as a restaurant with written menus and prices. One of course is the waiter/waitress and the other is the cook. This is probably a classic at our house since we got the kitchen and table downstairs. However new additions are always made to it.
They acted out the birth of our Savior with angels, shepards, wise men and the whole works. They were so glad we had a new baby so Berkeley could participate in the play and be baby Jesus.
They have made up laser tag. This is used with flashlights and played in the dark and whoever gets a light shined on them is out until they go back to their base and recharge. Yes, of course, they set up bases as well.
But my personal favorite was the night of the concert. They had created a band, sent out tickets to be purchased, and set up a stage, which included spotlights for the singer, guitar and drummer solos. The spotlights were flashlights and they each took their turn doing their thing.
I wish I could have got a video tape of this one but I knew the second I pulled out the camera all bets would be off and the entertainment would stop.
I love seeing them play like this together. It reminds me of my childhood. There is nothing better than seeing your children use their imagination!!

Family Pictures

2010-11-23T14:53:00.000-08:00

So over Thanksgiving break we went to Utah and visited the fam. Everyone was coming until the weather prohibited the Denver clan to drive here. Grandma had arranged for family pictures and purchased cute skirts and ties for the grandchildren. Well, we went ahead with getting individual family pictures and a few of the five grandchildren that came to our family this year in a five month period. So here is our family picture, one outside and one inside. Jett was a pill and thought that a smile was supposed to be sideways. Oh well, when you have four kids you just hope all can be looking not necessarily smiling their best.

Our little pirate

2010-11-01T14:13:00.000-07:00

Berkeley was our little pirate this Halloween. She loved sucking on her new costume ... everything enters her mouth. Babies love to give us all sorts of faces. SO here are a few of them.

Sucking on her costume.

I don't know what she was doing here but its classic.

Halloween

2010-10-31T13:24:00.000-07:00

This Halloween I decided that I wanted to REALLY carve some pumpkins. You always see the cool ones on other peoples porches. So I purchased a kit and we were on our way. The kids each picked out on of their design and that was about it. Little did I know that they were a little too difficult for them to do themselves so Lowell and I carved pumpkins this year while they watched. Well at least we did a Halloween tradition. They loved them and that is all the matters, right?!?!?

My kids and their hand signs. For some reason they love to do these while I take pictures.

The family around their pumpkins. Halle picked a spider, Austin's was a witch, and Jett's was a cat. SO long triangles for noses. (I have no idea why Jett is not in the picture)

The kids love Halloween for one reason ..... candy and lots of it. Don't you remember those days of fun. It just isn't the same when you grow up. Austin and Halle had their costume parade at the school where I took Jett and Berkeley to watch them. Jett thought he should be one of the school kids too so he joined the parade with his brother.

Jett posing as Buzz lightyear. (costume #1)

My goblins.

Halle proudly holding her sister at school.

Hanging out waiting to embark on trick or treating.

This picture is not so fabulous until you look at the door window and see Lowell doing a pig nose on the window.

Jett in costume #2 a black spiderman! Who says you have to limit yourself to one costume a year.

Berkeley eating

2010-10-27T14:40:00.000-07:00

Berkeley eating her rice cereal. She does better in the bumbo than in her high chair. The high chair seems to swallow her up.

The hand sign shows up again. At least it is I love you and not something bad.

Berkeley loves her rice cereal. I have never had a baby enjoys it but she will gobble it up.

Lake Powell

2010-10-14T12:20:00.001-07:00

So here are some pictures of our vacation at Lake Powell. We had tons of fun even though the weather was not traditional Lake Powell weather. We were able to experience all elements such as sun, rain, hail, wind and tornado warnings. So this first picture describes the first of the week and the clouds we faced.
I thought Lowell took a picture of the hail storm we encountered. It made me feel like I was a kid again in Bear Lake because no summer trip there was complete without hail, but here is a picture of the runoff from the storm.
So while it rained we played cards and watched movies. The kids were troopers through it all.

When the sun decided to come out we forced the kids out to play. We had a perfect spot because we could hike, play frisbee golf (which we made up the course) and play in the sand and then have contests (boys versus girls of course). We also had a great sand hill that we would hike up but then the last day the kids came up with a great idea of riding the knee boards down it instead.

See the sun really does exist. We started to lose hope and then it came out. The next post will have all the water pictures. So stay tuned.

Thank goodness for the houseboat. We were safe and WARM away from all the elements that came our way. While also offering a fun slide off the back for the kids to ride.

Here are just a few cute snapshots of my boys enjoying themselves. All in all, we would go again. It was fun just to be away from all the cares of the world!

Fall football

2010-09-25T12:11:00.000-07:00

Austin played fall football this year and has loved it! They were the Chargers and went 3-3. They played hard and learned a lot this year. They are all ready to move onto tackle football next fall but I think they might be rethinking it once they get tackled. He played offensive end and defensive tackle most of the games. Here are a few pictures of his plays!

Sucking her thumb

2010-09-25T12:03:00.000-07:00

Today at Austin's football game, Berkeley found her thumb and started sucking it. I have never had a baby who even found just their thumb. We have had finger suckers but not thumb suckers. I got her in the act and captured a picture. Isn't she a cute girl!

Trying to catch her asleep

2010-09-14T12:00:00.000-07:00

So I was trying to catch Berkeley asleep but she woke up when the flash shined in her eyes. So now you have a half asleep picture of her. She was thinking I was a crazy mom!

She's growing up!

2010-09-07T11:50:00.000-07:00

My little girl is growing up so fast. She has started to get a few rolls and her cheeks are starting to fill out. She still does not weigh very much but that is because she is SO tall. I get comments all the time on the fact that she has to be the tallest baby they have ever seen. She is long and lanky. She has started to blow raspberries and slobber like crazy. I guess it is time to get the bibs out. We are so glad she is here with our family. We feel complete!

See the length!

Spooky eyes with her smile. The flash has spooked her eyes.

Pulling her legs up

First Day of School

2010-09-02T10:55:00.000-07:00

Here are pictures of the kids first day of school. They were so excited to be back in school. They both decided that purple was going to be the color of choice.

Austin

Halle

Jett chilling with his brother and sister sad that he will not be able to play with them all day. So to make him feel happy we made cookies for the kids and met the kids as they walked home. I tried to make Grandma's recipe and they did not turn out so I hurried and cooked them all so I could hand them out to all the kids in the neighborhood. They didn't notice they didn't taste the same. Yes, I was trying to be the Martha of the neighborhood and I think I succeeded! (ha ha)

The delivery boy!

Major Slacker

2010-09-01T10:49:00.000-07:00

So I haven't posted a new entry forever because life as I know it has been CRAZY! I think this is the new norm I am realizing it needs to slow down a little bit. So please be patient with me as I catch up our blog with a few events that have taken place since our last post.

Two month visit

2010-08-10T14:41:00.000-07:00

Today Berkeley had her two month checkup ... she weighs 10 pounds 4 ounces and is 23 1/4 inches long. She also had to get 4 vacinations - 3 shots and 1 oral. Poor Girl! She is a great baby and has had 3 nights of sleeping 10 hours. I am a lucky mom.

New Pictures of Berkeley

2010-08-09T14:53:00.000-07:00

She has now found her hands and puts then in her mouth constantly or is blowing bubbles with her mouth. I couldn't resist to take a new picture of her all dressed up after going to church.

hands in mouth

An attempt at a smile

Take your pick. I think they are adorable!!

Berkeley's trip to the hospital

2010-07-26T15:22:00.000-07:00

So Sunday afternoon we took Berkeley to the ER because she had thrown up and had a fever of 101.1. The doctor did a bunch of tests on her including blood tests, urine sample (where they had to use a catherder to get a good sample), and a spinal tap. With the blood and urine test coming back the doc thought she had a 98% chance it was a virus but would not know until they did the spinal tap. He was willing to send her home on antibiotics but really encouraged us to do the spinal tap so we did it. He walked back into the room and said, "We have a change of plans... I need to admit her into the hospital because she has menagitis but was not sure what type she had." The test would take 48 hours to culture so they would treat her for the worst and help that it was the best. So that was it we were sentenced to the hospital for at least 48 hours and possibly 72 hours. The next day she had broke her fever and was acting very happy especially for all she had been though. She was a trooper. They say kids are strong and I have no doubt that she was a fighter. After 48 hours they were pretty confident that she had viral menagitis and started weaning her off some of the meds she was on. they would have known for sure but a nurse forgot to do her job and sent out a sample to a lab in Utah so we had to wait another day. There is one thing I have learned through all this... a good nurse can make a big difference and a bad one well they are not worth having around. Here are a few pictures of her stay.

Trying to sleep while no one was poking or checking on her. Notice the iv in her head. I had no idea that is a place they put them for little kids.

She did not like her bath the first day as you can see.

All hooked up to the heart monitors, foot oxygen thing and iv. I think that was one of the biggest challenges was moving her around with all her chords.
The first iv went bad and so they had to do another one and this time they did it in her arm. They had to put a board on it to keep her to keep it straight. She did not know what to think about this.
We are thankful for all the prayers and support that went out for our family and for her well being.

Jackson Hole/ Yellowstone with cousins

2010-07-25T15:14:00.000-07:00

Paul, Anna and kids came to visit us for the weekend. They decided to go to Yellowstone National Park for the day while they were here. Lowell and Grandma caved in and decided to go with them with our kids. I had to stay to teach my young women lesson so Grandpa decided to stay and help me with Berkeley. She was not feeling very well so we were glad we did not make the trip, especially after we called her doc and he said to bring her to the ER. So off Grandpa and I went calling Lowell and letting him know what was going on. More to come on this day in Berkeleys' hospital blog entry. All in all I think they had a great time with each other but it was a lot of driving for the day.

Here are a few pics from the day.

The boys with the animals.

Walking the streets of Jackson Hole.

Austin and Halle in front elkhorns at Jackson Hole.

Blue Angels with Grandpa & Dad

2010-07-24T14:26:00.000-07:00

Ever since Austin went to Washington D.C. with Cristie, he has been into the air force and jets. So we heard that the Blue Angels would be in Idaho Falls so Grandpa rode his cycle up to our house to go with the boys. It was a long, hot day out on the pavement but still tons of fun for them.

Austin trying to stay hydrated with pop - which is his drink of choice.

Watching the tricks in the sky. Don't you love Grandpa's do!

The things he says

2010-07-18T16:34:00.000-07:00

Jett asked Lowell to fix the doll stroller so he could play with it. Just as he finished with it Jett said, "That's the way, a-ha a-ha I like it, a-ha a-ha ." Lowell and I just looked at each other at laughed because we didn't even know he knew that song.

Nascar Racing

2010-07-18T15:27:00.001-07:00

Austin and Lowell were able to go the Utah Grand Prix racing out at Miller Motorsport Park. They had tickets to be in the suites (Thanks Cristie). With that came food (buffet - all u can eat style), shade and a great view. They had a father-son outing and loved every minute of it. Here is Austin driving his own car.

Our little race car driver.

Austin's favorite car.

Bath Time

2010-07-17T15:45:00.000-07:00

Berkeley in her bath chillin'. I had to take a picture of this because Jett now thinks this is his bath. One of the simple, funny moments that we as moms get to photograph.

She still really has no rolls to speak of, but I weighed her and she is now over 9 pounds but LONG.

Do you think he fits?

Summer ball

2010-07-15T15:19:00.000-07:00

Who ever said that the summer months are less busy than the school year - as far as activities for the kids goes?!?!? I think they were crazy. I signed both Halle and Austin up for baseball which meant that we had games four days a week. Most started at 9 in the morning so it got us up early and moving. So much for sleeping in during the summer especially with a new baby I must have been crazy when I signed them up. Austin really liked playing and was pretty good at it for it being his first year of playing that wasn't teeball. He has decided that he will play in the spring. Halle, on the other hand, could take it or leave it. She didn't have as much fun this year. Maybe it had something to do with the fact that she was the only girl on the team. Who knows! Here are a few pictures of Austin. I will have to post Halle's later because a friend took her pictures because I successfully failed to take a camera to any of her games. So stay tuned!!

Austin

His team

Running

The Catch

The hit

Trying the EZ Ski Trainer

2010-07-10T13:08:00.000-07:00

Aunt Cristie for Christmas gave the kids this EZ ski trainer. It basically is a blow up looking jet ski that the kids can sit or stand(once comfortable) and learn how to water ski. We tried it for the first time this year. They absolutely loved it. Jett even got on it. At first, he wasn't too sure of it but then when we pulled him in he wanted to go again. Austin and Halle loved it and both were standing having a blast.

Austin's turn

Halle's turn

Jett's turn

Summer Fun

2010-07-06T14:56:00.000-07:00

I am so glad that I spent $4 on these rain boots because they have been Jett's favorite shoes to wear. He has worn them out but still loves to wear them. Lowell captured these moments of him in the sprinkler in the yard.

He also was able to take a picture of this beautiful butterfly. How often does this happen that one will stay still for very long.

Berkeley Blessing Day

2010-06-27T14:08:00.000-07:00

The Blessing Dress! This was hard to find one that would fit this little girl. They all seemed to be so big on her neck and arms but thank goodness for white elegance we found one.

We decided at the last minute to bless Berkeley with Wrigley at their ward so we could all be there to participate. It was wonderful and both babies were happy for their blessings. I do not think that Berkeley liked being all dressed up because she cried a lot so the majority of our pictures are of her crying.

The fam at her blessing day. I wonder when the day will come when we will get a family picture of everyone smiling and looking.

My sister and I together with our girls on their blessing day. It was fun to do them together and share in it. Grandma bought them both a special bracelet. Even though they are not looking at the camera its fun to see them together and how different they look. They almost look like they are holding hands.

The special booties that Grandma Great T. makes with love. This year we were not able to have her here with us but we felt of her love as we put those booties on our daughters' feet. She always made special moments like this so memorable. Thank goodness we know we can be together again someday.

Sleeping kids

2010-06-20T14:00:00.000-07:00

This is what our house looks like in the afternoon on most days. Berkeley has been a great sleeper. In fact, there have been moments I have wanted to check on her to make sure she was ok. Let's hope she will always be a good sleeper because then we have a happy mom.

Jett taking his nap on the couch because he fell asleep at 3 or 4 - the best time for a nap--NOT! Isn't he so cute when he is asleep?!?! That is the only time this boy is still.

Sisters

2010-06-15T13:09:00.000-07:00

Halle loves her little sister. She loves to hold her and kiss on her. Berkeley is two weeks and sporting one of her little outfits.

Mothers

2010-06-05T09:54:00.000-07:00

Where do I begin to thank my mother for all her help with this new arrival. I am so grateful for her and the time that she spent here with our family. We loved it and I don't know what I would have done without her. She was here for a week but it went so fast we didn't want to say goodbye at the end. The last night that she was here Halle, her and I went to get pedicures. We treated ourselves to the deluxe package and enjoyed every minute of it. I only wish that she lived closer or I lived closer so that we could enjoy in these fun moments together more often. I know there are times that she thinks she doesn't do enough but I am here to say that she does! I love her and hope that she knows how much she means to me and my family. Thanks Mom!!

The final product!
Halle in her cute chair - she loved every minute of it!
My Mom - the wonderful Lady!

Jett's birthday

2010-06-01T18:51:00.000-07:00

I can't believe that my baby (who isn't really my baby anymore) is three. He wanted to have a Cars birthday party so we ordered a cars cake from Fred Meyer. We ordered a white cake but when we cut into it it was chocolate. So you know me I went to FM and got my money back and then the cashier gave me a $20 gift card to enjoy later. Totally worth it to complain about it.
Anyway, Jett went to the movies to see Shrek with Grandma and his siblings, opened presents, had cake, then dinner. Here he is opening a few of his presents.

Jett in his new Cars pj's and rain boots. Doesn't he look fabulous?!? You never know what kind of combination of clothes he will come up with. So here he playing with his new car.

Jett playing outside with his favorite truck. He rides it all the time.

All dressed up in his new buzz costume! He knows what he will be for Halloween this year.

A baby girl has arrived!

2010-05-29T13:50:00.001-07:00

Tuesday we had our beautiful baby girl arrive. Berkeley Kate was born at 9:06 P.M. and weighed 6 pounds 9 ounces and 20.5 inches long. She scared us a little at first with having the cord wrapped around her neck but they took good care of her and all is well. She is a little one compared to the rest of our clan but I can say this pregnancy and all was completely different. Who would have thought I would not have to be induced and would have the baby on my own time schedule and early. We are both well and love having her in our family. Here are her proud siblings.
Jett so proud to have a baby sister. He has been much better and into her than we expected.
Halle enjoying her moments with just the girls at the hospital. She loves that she now has a sister.
Austin was so excited to see her that he woke up bright and early and wanted to hurry to the hospital.
Our little angel sent straight from heaven!!

Halle is 6!

2010-05-22T19:43:00.000-07:00

It is Halle's birthday and she knew it from the minute she woke up. We started the day off with her kindergarten graduation program. She sang great and then at the end the audience sang Happy Birthday to her. She thought that was cool. Then we came home and decorated her cake.

This year she informed me that she would be making her own cake and decorating it the way she wanted. So she did it but during the process of decorating the cake her chair slipped on the floor and her fist went into her cake. We were able to fix it and laugh later but it was a crisis for the moment. Then she had friends come over and surprise her with a gift. They all deemed this shirt to be like one that Hannah Montana would wear.

All she wanted for her birthday were rollerblades and a new bike.

So after taking her bike for a test drive we headed off to dinner at Mandarin House (chinese - her pick of course). Then she wanted to go skating at Deleta with her new rollerblades. So Austin and her skated for two hours after dinner. They had a blast and Halle was a ham to watch. Every time she would get in the spotlight she would strike a pose. She loved every minute of it and we had to beg them off the rink to come home.

When we got home we were able to sing happy birthday, eat some cake and ice cream just in time for bed. Her cake was delicious by the way.

School Year-end

2010-05-20T14:32:00.000-07:00

I can't believe that we are already down to the last week of school but it is here. If you were to see my calendar you would know that it is a crazy time. I had a friend tell it was December without all the gift buying because of all the events and then I realized no it is the same for me because instead of buying Christmas I am buying birthday presents! What was I thinking?!?! Oh, I don't think I had a say in the matter, they all just came when they were supposed too. We have been on field trips, gone to kindergarten graduation, finished volunteering, helped with field day, eaten pizza at school with Halle to prep her for all day, had rocket day, bowling parties for passing off math facts, recitals etc. I think the list could probably go on but I will not bore you. Let's just say I am glad that i do not have babies early because I will want to get through the 26th and then bring it on!!

Piano Recital

2010-05-19T14:25:00.001-07:00

Austin had his piano recital last night and performed his two songs. He does a good job at piano but still begs if he can switch to the guitar now. Unfortunately, his mother still tells him no. He has to get a little better at piano first. Here he is performing all dressed up.

A Birthday Party for all 3 kids

2010-05-15T20:05:00.000-07:00

Aunt Cristie thought she would surprise the kids with a birthday party for all of them in between all of their birthdays. Annette, Aviril, and Cristie decorated Padres house - brought gifts- set up pin the nose on the clown - brought cupcakes and surprised them. They loved it. They were able to see their aunt and get spoiled all in one shot. We then had a BBQ and relaxed in the sun because it was such a nice day.

Jett being silly looking in his present.
Halle thrilled to see what new clothes she would get and need to try on immediately.
Austin with his Dr. pepper. He loves pop!
Them all in their birthday crowns.
Thanks Cristie and girls for a wonderful surprise!

Daddy and his boat

2010-05-15T14:27:00.000-07:00

Can I just say that Lowell is like a little boy with a toy when it comes to his boat! He was able to get it out of winter storage this week and is so excited. I think it is cute to see him so happy and excited about something. We are still waiting for another nice weekend to be able to take it out. Maybe Memorial weekend?? and we can see if all the rocking on it will help send me into labor, who knows, right?? The reservoir is full and open so come on weather lets stop raining.

Austin is 9!!

2010-05-02T14:13:00.000-07:00

Austin turns 9 today and we celebrated with going with the family this year. Tiff and Todd came to visit - we played soccer games- went to Taco Bell for dinner (Austin's choice of all the places he could go-yuck!)-had peanut butter bard for cake - had a movie party watching Avatar. Austin wanted nothing really traditional for his birthday but it really is all about whatever the birthday boy wants.

Todd and Austin checking out the movie.
The Cake!
The boys!
The big gift. All he wanted was a wakeboard. His Dad set him up for the boating season.

Spring Soccer

2010-04-25T14:19:00.000-07:00

Saturdays this spring have been filled with soccer games for Austin and Halle. Austin's team is fun to watch because they have gotten to the age that they finally are playing together as a team and making plays. It is a lot harder to score but they work hard. They have been successful at winning most games and tied a few.

Halle, on the other hand, is still playing three on three and have to decide if they will or will not take the ball away from their own team. It is hilarious to see them fight for the ball. Halle has had a lot of "best games ever" as she would call them where she has scored six or more goals.
Here are a few picture highlights of their games.

Pinewood Derby Regionals

2010-04-17T14:09:00.000-07:00

Austin's car on the track racing.

So the boys got to take their car to regional pinewood derby. Austin's car successfully won seven races and took third place every time. Unfortunately, the third place did not get an award. They only awarded the top two cars. Still it was fun and the boys learned that you do not have to put lots of time into a car in order to win. Although, Austin already knows how to improve his car for next year.

Austin and his ribbon for third place.

Awaiting the results.

Halle Clogging Competition

2010-04-09T16:40:00.000-07:00

Oh where do I begin with this clogging competition day. First of all, look out boys she is only six. She is beautiful. Let's just say that all the girls are going to be jealous of those eyelashes in high school. They are long!!

Here is a picture of her and her friends before they went on stage for their solo dances (which is when they are judged on their individual abilities but dance with others on stage). She placed first on both her dance solos.

Up on stage. Sorry for the red eye but it will not fix. She was so scared the night before but you could not tell it because she got up there and did fantastic! She received a medal and two first place pins to put on the medal ribbon for each solo that she got first.

Here she is with her medal and pins!

Then as she received her placing and awards her awesome daddy had bought her a dozen pink roses. I do not know what was more exciting for her the medal or roses. From this point on in the night you could not wipe the smile off her face. She felt loved and you could see it! Thanks Dad for being the sweetheart that you are and always thinking of your girls.

I didn't think the night could go any better and then they called her dance team up to the stage to receive their award. She was the only one they could find and so she went up on the stage and received it. Her team placed first for their dance category and won an overall studio award. She was beaming to hold this trophy that was almost as tall as her. She carried it to the car and would not let her mother touch it, in fact, she told Grandma it was too heavy for Mom to carry. She got up the next morning and went right to it, carried it into the bathroom and weighed it. It was six pounds. I do not think the night could have gone any better and I also think that any fear that was there is now gone and replaced with confidence. She is bummed that she has to take the trophy to the studio to display it for the team but she is glad that it has been here this long.

Happy Easter!!!

2010-04-05T18:56:00.000-07:00

Happy Easter to all of you. We wish we could be with all of you but hope you have a wonderful day. It was a good day to be home and watch conference and have all our church leaders talk about Christ and his atonement. What a good reminder on this Easter day. Here is a little of the action that happened at our home in the morning.

Sharing some Easter joy!

Ready, Set, Go! Who do you think will get more? (Jett is still upstairs working on that egg)

Jett examining his egg in this basket that has opened and cannot move onto the next one until he had mastered putting it back together so his candy does not fall out.

Playing in the cold!!

A recap of today's events. We had a family easter egg hunt, ate a big sunday brunch with Grandpa, watched general conference, had yummy dinner and dessert with our good friends (the Mcminns), played outside on the court and swings until they froze but they just had to go blow their new bubbles. We had a great day!

Dying Eggs

2010-04-02T18:44:00.000-07:00

The kids love to dye hard-boiled eggs and make many fun creations. They look forward to eating deviled eggs and egg salad sandwiches from their eggs. Mom bought a dud of an egg coloring kit this year but they didn't notice and still loved it.

Halle showing us what she wrote on her egg.

So determined to do it all by himself and just the way he wants. Notice the outfit he would not put on a paint shirt so we stripped him down instead.

His last egg. It was devastating. Believe me!!

My silly kids.

Please move your hand Mom I can do this by myself.

Projects and More

2010-03-29T17:04:00.000-07:00

I have begun the nesting stage a little early and am in major project mode. I keep thinking that I need to get done all that I can before I start to feel like doing nothing. I made my list (which was rather long) but I am checking items off everyday. I am sure that Lowell will be happy when I feel like doing nothing since he has to be my right hand on some of the projects. But thanks to him we are moving forward and getting the house in order and spring cleaning a little before this little girl comes into our lives and I spend the majority of the day on the couch nursing.

Shoshone Falls

2010-03-25T18:12:00.000-07:00

Over spring break, we decided to take an overnight trip to Twin Falls and go see Shoshone Falls (otherwise known as the Niagara of the West). They were amazing. The water was not flowing as much as it does when it is not a dry year but it was still beautiful to see.

The fam at the overlook. You can see it was not the warmest day that we picked but it was still fun.

The kids and Mom posing on a rock.

They played and climbed on every rock possible on the trail. Give the kids some grass, rocks, dirt and water and they can entertain themselves for hours.

We then headed to a hotel to let the kids swim. It is amazing to me that the best part of a vacation to kids is if the hotel has a pool or not. It got them excited for summer and playing on the boat. We tried to teach Jett to trust that his life jacket would hold him up in the water. He trusted his floaty more but hopefully he will get it.

Second Ultrasound

2010-03-23T19:17:00.000-07:00

Today I went to the doctor for a routine checkup and he wanted to do another ultrasound because I was measuring small for where I am in the pregnancy. So that afternoon we went and everything looked good. She was measuring 3 days behind where they thought she should be so no concern.

The technician confirmed it was a girl with a 99.9 percent accuracy- that was without looking at my file so I think I can plan on a little girl. I guess we better figure out her name, any suggestions?!?!?!

She also informed us that she has hair (not peach fuzz but hair floating off her head). Who knows if it is straight or curly because when hair is in water it always looks straight- right. My neighbor pointed that out to me. Duh?
All in all a good appointment and it eased our mind.

Jett must be 2 going on 3!

2010-03-20T19:09:00.000-07:00

My mello little boy has turned into a naughty little boy somedays. I can't decide what it is that is going on but there is something. I had a lady in church comment, "Does he ever sit still?" The answer is no. He has no idea of personal space. He wants to be on my lap, in my face, constantly moving and things just so (meaning his way or the highway). There are days that he spends more time on his naughty bench and telling me sorry then playing. Well whatever it is I hope that this stage will pass and it is not the new Jett. Wish me luck!!

The Pinewood Derby

2010-03-17T16:46:00.000-07:00

The annual boy scout pinewood derby was this week. Austin and Lowell spent the week or so prior cutting, sanding, painting and decorating their car. It was cute to see them work together on a project. This is Austin with his finished car. He won the award for the "Most Aerodynamic Car." It was a sleek design that Austin created.

Ready, Set, Go! Austin's car is on the blue lane.

Austin and Jett anticipating the outcome of his race. Jett sat right by Austin's side watching the races.
And He is the winner!

Austin placed first in his Wolf class and is off to regionals. Who knew that there was a pinewood derby regionals?!?!? We will keep you posted on the outcome of that day because there is no way that Austin will not be attending. We are reminded of it weekly at least. He is proud of his car and we were proud that we at least won one race but had no idea that we would be first. Lowell laughed at all the dads that said how much time and the techniques that went into their cars because there was no major game plan or strategy that went into theirs. Just goes to show that simple can be better!

Skiing with Uncle Heath

2010-02-20T19:46:00.000-08:00

The kids have truly loved skiing this year. Heath called and planned a trip with Lowell and the kids to meet them at SnowBasin to ski for a day. They skied together for a little while and then after lunch, Austin and Heath ventured off to the big hills. Austin did black diamond hills all afternoon with Heath. He was stoked that he could do it and keep up. He is daring and has no fear. He has informed us that he will not need lessons again next year. Who knows who will ski with him next year because Lowell likes to leisure ski and I am far from a black diamond skier. I guess we will cross that bridge when it comes. I will stick with the little ones on the bunny hills. They all loved the day and loved being with their Uncle. Thanks for the fun!

President's Weekend

2010-02-19T14:26:00.000-08:00

We drove down to Utah to visit the fam for the long weekend. The kids went skiing with Dad at Alta. They had a blast and it was a beautiful day to be up on the slopes. We visited the big annual boat show at the convention center. They had some huge houseboats and tons of boats and accessories. Lowell was like a kid in a candy shop loving every minute of it. Then we held a shower for Aunt Emily for her new baby girl. She could've opened a little store by the time she was done with all her gifts. It was fun to see all the cute clothes and accessories that girls can have. It also happened to be Valentines Day while we were there so grandma watched all the grandkids while the parents went out for hot dates. Thanks to her. Then they had a major sleepover in grandma's basement and stayed up way too late but had a blast being all together.

Hoop it up Austin!

2010-02-13T19:31:00.000-08:00

Austin played rec basketball this winter. He really enjoyed it and was good at it. He has talent if he can overcome the fear of the ball hitting him. They had a pretty good little team and would either win the game or lose by just a few usually in overtime or in the last seconds. I thought football was an aggressive sport but I learned that basketball can be worse. At least in football there are pads to protect you. We survived without any major injuries and will want to play again.

We made the change to the big boy bed.

2010-02-01T10:18:00.000-08:00

Well like I said I needed to switch Jett to his big boy bed because he was climbing like crazy in and out of the crib- we did it. The first night went smooth. Almost too good to be true. He laid down, stayed in his bed (which is big), and fell asleep within 30 minutes or less. I didn't really want to go in and check on him because it was so quiet.
Then I hit nap time the next day - not as smooth. After and hour plus of seeing if he would go to sleep, I finally got him out of his bed and chalked it up to no nap and we would try again tomorrow. I guess I can't complain if the night time is going well.
Night two was a success as well and he loves it. I think it is cute that he still calls the nursery HIS ROOM so we will see if that changes as the new sister comes.

Ski lessons for Austin and Halle

2010-01-31T14:51:00.000-08:00

We decided to sign the kids up for ski lessons this January up at Pebble. Austin is our little skier. The first day of lessons he ate his lunch in 10 minutes and said to his Dad, "I'm going go catch a few runs before lessons start." He was off and loving every minute of it. Then a few weeks later they went up on the bigger hill and he decides that him and his friend, Ty, are going to go up during lunch break and ski. Well Austin gets on the lift and Ty decides he doesn't want too so Austin continues on to the bigger hill by himself. He had a blast but also had to have a little lesson on skiing by himself. I guess I can say that our money was well spent for him. He is daring and loves to push himself.
Halle, on the other hand, is a little more reserved. The first week was hard for her because she fell a lot more than she wanted too but she kept going. Austin was great to motivate her. Then the second week came and she realized that she could go down the whole slope without falling. That was a big deal to her. Then the last week she was skiing without her edgie wedgies. She has decided that skiing is fun too and wants to go again! There are even a few pictures that we caught that she has a little grin on her face. It is always fun to learn a skill and get good at it. Hopefully, we will get some good snow this spring for them to continue to enjoy it.

I have a climber!

2010-01-30T15:30:00.000-08:00

Jett has learned a new skill this week. He climbs in and out of his crib. I think it is time to make the switch to the big bed, don't you? I am afraid one of these times he will break a bone with how he throws his body over the rail. I guess I have to finish getting his big boy room ready for the switch. I keep talking to him about how his baby sister will need the crib but he keeps telling me that it is MY ROOM. Hopefully, he will not miss it too much!! Wish me luck.

It's a GIRL!

2010-01-04T15:22:00.000-08:00

Well the title says it all. It's a GIRL. That gives us an even 2 and 2. I can't believe that I am already 5 months along and can tell the sex. Halle is so excited - you cannot wipe the smile off of her face. I surprised the kids and Padre with a donut with a it's a girl sign. Austin didn't know what to think but I think he will love another little sister more than he thinks he will.
All in all everything looked healthy and good. That is all we pray and ask for this time.

Merry Christmas!

2009-12-25T17:37:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas to all of our friends and family! I can't believe that it is already here and pretty much over. Here are a few highlights from our day.

The kids playing the DS. They have shared so well.

Jett sporting Halle's shirt from Heath and Amy. He wanted to try it on to. He said it was so pretty. Halle calls it her Hannah Montana shirt so you know it was a hit.

Awaiting the descent to the basement to open presents.

Dad putting together Austin's Halo legos. It got the best of him and after a hour of cussing and frustration they still are not put together. We might need some help.

Jett sporting his Thomas underwear backwards while playing with his trains. He likes them to ride up. He has been so funny today- I could have a whole post on all the funny things he has said and done today. But the best is Merry Christmas Mom!

We are so blessed and want all of you to know how much we love and appreciate you in our lives.

Christmas Eve

2009-12-24T17:47:00.000-08:00

The tradition continues of pajamas to open on Christmas eve (thanks to Grandma and Grandpa Cederholm). Here are the kids sporting their new pj's. I never thought that we would get Jett out of his train ones but Ironman scrubs did it. Austin was thrilled him and Dad got BYU ones. Now he has the right team he says.
We had a fabulous dinner of prime rib, potatoes, rolls, salad, veggies and ice cream cake roll. It was delicious. Great job Dad! The kids love getting that table all set with fancy dishes and candlelight, but the hit of all is the sparkling apple cider in wine glasses. It continues to remind me that it is the simple things that bring the greatest joy.
Then on to the notes and goodies for Santa (oh I almost forgot the carrots for the reindeer left outside), stories of Christ and his birth, and of course the book, "Twas the night before Christmas."

Potty Training

2009-12-17T13:00:00.000-08:00

Jett has been potty training since Thursday of last week. He is doing awesome. It all started because he wanted to change his diaper every time he was peeing. So I got out his Thomas underwear and we put them on and off we went. He had a few accidents the first couple days, including a major #2 accident in the dressing room at the mall.(this was a blast - let me tell you to clean up in a public restroom) But since Sunday we have been accident free and have been waking up from naps with dry diapers. Yippee!
This has had its challenges too because Mister particular has to do everything himself and his way. There is no help that Mom can give to assist because "I do it!" I thought that buying some flushable wipes would help out with the #2 moments. Well it is so new and exciting that he will go to the bathroom just to use those wipes whether it is #1 and #2. Sorry for all the potty talk but this is my life and all we think about lately. I guess we really might be on our way to diaper free for a couple months before the baby comes.

Gingerbread Houses

2009-12-13T18:12:00.000-08:00

The Richards annual tradition of decorating gingerbread houses. You notice I did not say making and decorating - we leave the making up to Costco and have fun decorating them. This year we invited our friends, the Mcminns, over to help. The boys decided that they wanted to decorate the houses boys vs. girls. Well you can imagine who won the competition. The GIRLS (or you can decide for yourself). We had tons of fun together decorating, enjoying company, eating candy (I think more made it in our bellies than actually on our houses) and caramel popcorn.

Clogging Performance

2009-12-12T13:20:00.000-08:00

Halle had her first clogging performance today at the mall. She danced to the song from the old disney cartoon Stanley. She did awesome. She has loved clogging. It is neat to see her not be so nervous and shy to get up in front of people and perform.
You can visit my friends blog at www.mcminnbunch.blogspot.com to see the whole 30 second performance LIVE.
Way to go Halle!

Have you heard!

2009-11-25T17:35:00.000-08:00

The secret is out. The Richards clan is adding one more addition to the mix. We will be having a new baby come June sometime. It seems that that is when we like to have them so why not do it one more time. We find out January 4th if it is a boy or girl so an update will follow. Now you know why my blogging has slowed down but I am feeling much better and will be better. Sorry for all the catch up events - I am trying to keep it so we can print a book of the years events.

Halloween 2009

2009-11-02T17:59:00.000-08:00

Here are our little trick-or-treaters this year.

Austin as a punk rocker! You missed the black hair but by the third day he was sick of coloring it.

Halle as a cheerleader. She was very upset for awhile that this was a red and white costume and not blue and white for BYU. I think her Dad has been brain washing her.

And last but not least, here is our little engineer. He is so serious. He did find out that he liked Halloween and trick-or-treating for candy. He wanted to eat all that was in his bucket that night. Who says there should be a limit on what I can eat - I worked hard for this candy.

There goes the garden!

2009-10-01T14:44:00.000-07:00

Welcome to winter! We are so lucky to live in a place that snows in September (NOT) and ruins the fruits of our labors in our garden. Anything that was still out there is now frozen or wilted by snow. Thank goodness I picked most of it before the storm. But really why does it have to freeze this early - the gettin' was just gettin' good.

The surprise!

2009-09-28T14:32:00.000-07:00

I almost forgot the biggest event/surprise in September. Lowell surprised me for my birthday with a weekend away in Park City with no kids. (All arrangements made) I was so surprised and excited to know that we could be together doing whatever we wanted and also to enjoy a meal with no interruptions.
We were to go over Labor Day weekend but it seems that I was so excited I got myself sick. No really, I started throwing up Friday morning and didn't really feel better until Sunday night. We were both were bummed. It was terrible. Lowell called the hotel, babysitter (Aunt Cristie) to see if we could arrange it for the next weekend. It all worked out and we went then.
Thanks to all because it was a blast but especially to my wonderful husband!

I know it has been AWHILE!

2009-09-27T14:17:00.000-07:00

It is amazing to me how helpless you can feel when your computer breaks down and is not available. I finally got it back and would like to catch everyone up on the events that have occurred this September.
For Austin, flag football has started and is in full swing. He practices or plays a game 4 nights a week. He has enjoyed it even though they have only won one game so far. This league is a whole new experience for these boys. He also keeps me running with scouts and piano lessons.
Halle has started clogging and truly loves it. She also is involved in soccer. She has made 3 or 4 goals a game.
Thank goodness that Jett is not involved in any activities because I feel like this month has come and gone with how busy we have been.
I was just called to be in the Young Women's as the Laurel advisor. It is so fun to be around these young girls and think back to my dating years (oh how I wouldn't go back) but also keeps me going 1-2 nights a week.
Lowell is busy with work with his boss leaving and all the budget cuts from the state. It sure makes life interesting but we are thankful that we have a job in this economy.
So there it is in a nutshell. Life on the fast track. Somedays I think I know this is only the beginning of feeling like the taxi driver but at the same time I love it!

Halle starts kindergarten

2009-08-26T19:52:00.001-07:00

Do you think she is excited for kindergarten?!?!? Well she has been counting down the days for a week or so. We have picked out outfits over and over but she settled on the monkey shirt, monkey earrings, monkey clip, denim skirt and new flip-flops. She was adorable.
I was quickly informed that I should just leave her at the door and she would go in for herself. I think that made me sad more than anything. I immediately got butterflies and nervous for her because I wasn't there to help unload the backpack and help her along. Crazy mom, I know, admittance is the first step, right?!?! I know that this independence is a good thing and she informed me that she was glad I left her there. So after fighting my inner self I was glad that I did not go in. She loves her teacher and told me a list of details and things that she learned on the first day. All in all another great first day of school.

Start of School

2009-08-24T11:54:00.000-07:00

Here is my little boy that is growing up too fast. Third grade started today and he had a hard time going to sleep and woke up early because he was so excited for school. I will take this excitement as long as I can because someday it will stop.

Austin's comment about the first day of third grade was , "It was WICKED AWESOME." To me that is a pretty good first day of school. He likes his teacher and loves that he has friends in his class.

I love you Austin and am so glad that you love to learn!

My Beautiful Girl

2009-08-21T14:09:00.000-07:00

I remember when I was pregnant with Halle and her Dad wished for her to be a beautiful girl. Well I think that he got his wish. She is beautiful! Em wanted to do her hair all curly. It took her a little longer than she thought it would but look at how great she looks!

Visiting with Auntie Em and Carter

2009-08-19T13:50:00.000-07:00

Auntie Em and Carter came to visit us this week for a last summer vacation before school life kicks in for all of us. We had a blast together. It was so good to get in a little sister one-on-one. We did a little of everything - shopping, boating, movies, playing and eating. I only really got pictures of the boating experiences but here are the highlights and funny things Carter said and did on the boat.

Carter decided he was the designated flagman! He did a fabulous job until the flag was used for his nap time shade. (see picture below) I think the boat completely did him in.

Here he is venturing out in the water with his Mom. He liked the whole boating thing a lot better when the motor was off.

Trains! Trains! and trains!

2009-08-18T13:21:00.000-07:00

I never thought that I could raise two boys that liked trains so much. As a toddler Austin loved trains and now his little brother is fascinated with them as well. He loves to play with Thomas, watch trains go by on the tracks and watch Thomas DVD's (we all know how incredibly boring these are). Anyway, they both love it so we let them play and enjoy. Today, we went to a model railroad museum. It had a whole room full of trains, tracks and signals with grown up boys that loved to play with trains STILL. Jett loved it!

Watching the trains switch engines outside the museum building.

Austin still liking trains unless you asked him if he did.

Halle telling me that I need to get a picture of her too by the trains so here it is.

Jett knows what signals are and points them out as we pass them in town. He also lets me know that we are going over tracks and how many we just went over. I guess Pocatello is a great place to live with train lovers because it is an old train city.

Bubbles

2009-08-11T20:16:00.000-07:00

Today I found Jett like this! He said, "Look mama Bubbles!" He was right there were bubbles and they were everywhere. He had so much fun playing in them I couldn't get mad I just had to pull out the camera and snap the shots.

Cascade Springs

2009-08-09T20:11:00.000-07:00

A weekend with the McDougal's at their cabin in Midway.

The weather ended up being cool so there was no boating but we ventured out on a hike to Cascade Springs. It was pretty and the kids loved being silly together (see below picture). I mean look what I had to work with. The boys were cracking me up and the girls were as cute as ever.

They always amaze me how they pick up playing like they were together yesterday.

Look at those cute kids - I am a lucky mom!!

Potty Training

2009-07-26T20:25:00.000-07:00

Am I really ready for this again?!?! Today after church Jett came out of my bathroom with his diaper off and telling me he was ready to go potty in the toilet. Where did that come from I thought but I was willing to go with it. It happened to be nap time so I made a deal that we would get out the underwear and little potty once he got up. Well first thing he reminded me so off to the garage we went in search of those things. He was excited. We put on the Thomas underwears (as he calls them) and were sitting on the potty. I was surprised because he went not just once but at least ten times that night. He knew what to do and was doing it so we'll see where it takes us! Wish me luck!

Summer Sports

2009-07-25T19:54:00.000-07:00

This summer we were busy with t-ball for Halle and flag football for Austin. When soccer was over Halle asked me if I had signed her up for t-ball. Of course I had not so I looked around to see if she could still get in. Thank goodness I found the rec league and convinced Ellie (her bestest friend ever) to play with her. They both had a blast and loved playing. We were also impressed that they did pretty good and really enjoyed it.
Austin loved his flag football but that is a big surprise to us, NOT! and Jett of course was the best sport and cheerleader for both of them.

A boat owners worst nightmare

2009-07-19T19:18:00.000-07:00

Well my fear of owning a boat is that one day we would get stranded out on the water. Who knew - it would come true in the first month of boat ownership. It was a beautiful day and we were enjoying the glass water when our boat started going putt-putt. It was like the engine was not getting gas so we called Jonathan to see what we could do to fix it but had no luck. Thank goodness for Barries and their great service that my nightmare wasn't as bad as I thought it could be. Jonathan was on the lake and able to pull us in right away.

Getting Towed

Courtney teaching us all how to do a 360 on the kneeboard. She was awesome. After about 5 attempts she got it and stayed up!

What would a vacation with my brother be without a little Cederholm hiney!

Wakeboarding 101

2009-07-17T20:21:00.000-07:00

So the last day that Heath was here we ventured out to try out a wakeboard. The store let us demo one to see if we wanted to purchase one. They sure are smart because most times it is a no brainer that once tried people will purchase. We all tried and all got out of the water. The men did a good job but I did a number. I face planted it HARD! Best 101 lesson in when to drop the rope and let go! I do not think that I will ever do that again. Of course they did not get a picture of me up but it really did happen!

A weekend with Cristie and Heath

2009-07-13T19:50:00.000-07:00

A weekend with Aunt Cristie and Uncle Heath out on the water. Cristie brought Heath up to visit and spend time with Padre. The perk for them was that their brother (Lowell) had bought a boat and so we went out to play. We spent Friday and Saturday on the lake playing in the water. Then Saturday we celebrated Cristie's birthday. The kids wanted to decorate the house and make sure she had presents to open. They decided we would decorate for a Luau and eat tuna steaks, grilled zuchini and pineapple. We also made homemade ice cream or should we say attempted to make it. I would call it whip cream rather than ice cream. At least we still had a birthday cake to eat.

Part of the Gang

Do you think that Padre is ready to get in the water?!?!?

Jett and his Cristie.

Yes, I actually get to drive the boat. (haha) Lowell turns over the right once in a while.

Austin out on the kneeboard. He loves it! In fact, sometimes we try to tip him so that we can get him off or else he would ride forever. If only I were that young again.

4th of July

2009-07-05T15:39:00.000-07:00

Who would ever think that you would not be able to be outside for a BBQ on the fourth of July. Well with this rain and weather we have had this summer anything is possible. Thank goodness we were able to finish our dinner before the storm hit. We had hail, rain and more rain. The gutters and streets were overflowing with water. A friend has a weather center and send that in an hour storm we received two inches of water. I do not know if my flowers will recover from all the hail damage. Only time will tell. At least it stopped before the firework show. Happy 4th!

Round Two

2009-07-04T14:38:00.000-07:00

We are off to the mall for round two of ear piercing for Halle. While boating Halle lost one of her new earrings out in the lake somewhere. I found the back in the boat and that is when I noticed it missing. We called Claires and they said to get an earring in it right away - well I tried but couldn't get it through the back of her ear. I couldn't believe that they would close up so fast but the lady said it could close in a half hour when they are that new. Halle took getting it pierced again because she would not hear of not having earrings now but the best is that they did it all for free again !!

A day on the water

2009-07-04T14:18:00.000-07:00

I guess you can say that it is official. Daddy got his wish and has a BOAT! So we took it out on the water for the first time yesterday. We loved it. The kids loved playing in the water and being pulled on the tube. They learned a few new things like life jackets really do work and that you can pee in the water because there are no restrooms close by.

Daddy wake surfed again and loved every minute of it.

Jett took the co-captains chair and took a little snooze. Thank goodness for that so he could enjoy the rest of the day.

Who knew it could be so fun but we look forward to many new memories and fun times on the boat.

Riding a two-wheeler

2009-06-23T15:43:00.000-07:00

Halle learned to ride a two-wheeler bike today with NO training wheels. Her friend Ellie taught her how to put her feet and pedals so she could start on her own so she practiced all morning and by night she was riding up and down the sidewalk. She has found a new love for the summer because now she can be part of the big kids and ride and race with them.

Ear piercing

2009-06-20T15:37:00.000-07:00

Halle got her ears pierced in Arizona as her souvenior of the trip. That is all she wanted and so we asked Daddy if it was okay for her to get them done. He was sad because he thought a little bit of her innocence was lost. She was a trooper and did not cry. Surprise!!

Road Trip to Arizona

2009-06-15T14:42:00.000-07:00

We decided to take a road trip to Phoenix, Arizona to relax and stay in one of Padres condos. We had a 12 hour drive ahead of us but as long as we had redbox DVDs, food and sippies - we were okay! We took 2 days to get there so that made it even better.

The first major stop was the Grand Canyon. The kids couldn't believe how deep it was. It was beautiful - now we know why it is a major wonder of the world.

Once we arrived in Arizona we had fun playing in the pool, seeing family members, shopping, golfing and eating. I swear we came away 5 pounds heavier but I think vacations do that to a body. I couldn't wait for a home cooked meal.

The kids could have lived in the pool. Austin's confidence in swimming has grown so much since last year. It was fun to see him move past some of his water fears. They loved just playing with each other and any other kid that was in the pool and would play.

But one of the highlights of the trip was visiting Grandma Hubbard's grave. We took her new silk flowers (because nothing real lasts more than a day in Arizona heat) and cleaned up her gravestone. Before we left on the trip Halle and Austin had colored a picture for her that they wanted to leave with her. When one of Halle friends asked her why she would take a picture to her dead Grandma, Halle just responded "My Grandma will know it is there." I truly believe that she is right and she will love it.

Overall the trip was a success and everyone survived. But best of all we had a great time together enjoying every minute of our Daddy being with us.

Jett is TWO - I can't believe it.

2009-06-10T14:05:00.000-07:00

How time passes by so fast these days. My baby is TWO already. He loves trains so of course his birthday was centered around that. This train is an automatic one that goes around and around and he plays for hours. Whatever to keep him busy while Mom gets the chores done.

Jett and his brother and sister. He loves them so much. Jett and Halle hug and kiss each other every night before bed. It is so sweet. They truly love each other and have enjoyed spending time together.

Jett blowing out the candles on his cake. He knew what his birthday was about ... presents, cake and more presents. He loved every minute of it. He is such a joy to our family and makes us laugh eveyday.