ALLRED (mis)ADVENTURES

Here Fishy, Fishy!

2012-01-26T20:37:00.000-08:00

Our first visit to The Living Planet Aquarium. As you can see by the smiles, we had a great time!

Amateur Photo Night

2012-01-24T20:28:00.000-08:00

I don't normally like to post many pictures of myself. Mainly because (like most women) I tend to focus only on the flaws. However, since this photograph is compliments of Miss Lula Mae, I made an exception. She'd been pestering me tonight about letting her take a picture of me with my phone. I finally relented and after a quick tutorial she started "clicking" away. She took just a few pics, this one was best. It was also the very first one she took. Not bad for a two-year-old. She's a quick study!

Dilemma

2012-01-19T18:14:00.000-08:00

Lula is in that stage where she thinks she is done with naps. I, however, am not so sure. Since I'm the one in charge (or so I like to think) I'm trying to decide if nap time is worth fighting for or if it's a thing of the past. Here's the deal: No nap means a whiny, tear-filled, make me want to pull my hair out afternoon buuuut after 7:30pm my night is fabulously quiet and chaos free. Having a nap means a long drawn-out dreadful bedtime that happens somewhere around 9:30 pm. On the up side there is almost an entire hour and a half in the middle of the afternoon when ALL three children are sound asleep. Oh, how I enjoy a little me time! What to do? What to do?

Your Next American Idol

2012-01-18T20:09:00.001-08:00

Since tonight is the season premier for another American Idol, I thought it was appropriate to post these audition videos. Not really sure why the girls didn't make it... The producers made up so mumbo jumbo about their age. Whatever! Ella even made a special effort to perfect her "just rolled out of bed I'm a rock star" hair. The show is totally rigged, dog!

Just Ducky

2012-01-15T21:16:00.001-08:00

Can't get enough of this kid! Such a happy boy!

Funny Funny

2012-01-14T21:38:00.000-08:00

Nash thinks EVERYTHING Lula does is just hilarious! Maybe it's cause it's the middle of January and she's still singing "Jingle Bells".

This Bed Is Just Right

2012-01-13T20:10:00.000-08:00

Apparently Goldie Locks has found the perfect place to snuggle in for the night. Too bad the perfect place happens to be in the middle of IKEA.

Cat Fight

2012-01-10T20:31:00.000-08:00

This is what happens when you have a little sister that scratches. Poor little, Lula, I can relate. My little sister was a scratcher/try to gouge your eye outer too. However, in her defense, I was a hitter, biter, kicker, hair puller, pincher and just plain mean older sister. I'd like to say I've grown out of it all. For the most part I have buuuuuut I'm still pretty mean. Luckily for Ella and I, our sisters still love us even though they may not like us all the time!

Big Dipper

2012-01-09T19:51:00.000-08:00

No more french fries? No problem! Cheez-its will do the trick. Actually, just about anything that's dippable will work for Ella. She likes fry sauce, A LOT. She has even been known to drink the leftovers. No wasting here!

Love Germs

2012-01-07T21:23:00.000-08:00

I know she adores him but sometimes I wish she would adore him from a distance. I often have to tell myself that she's not spreading germs, she's spreading love. Share the love. Share the love.

Fashionista

2012-01-06T21:58:00.000-08:00

Lula likes to make a fashion statement in the form of accessories. Earrings, bracelets, necklaces, she's a fan of them all. Her creative little mind can turn many household items into to jewelry as well. Bracelets are a hit with her so teething rings, bottle rings and cookie cutters currently fit the bill. She also like to use hair ties or "pony ties" as she calls them to adorn her wrists and ankles. Anything that has a strap or a zipper automatically becomes a purse. Armed with her phone "to make my phone calls" and a purse full of treasures she is ready for shopping. Shaking her little finger at me, Miss Bossy Britches will say, "I gotta go the store, mom, you stay here!". Hmmm, wonder where she learned that...?

Furry Forest

2012-01-05T19:52:00.000-08:00

Yeah, this sums it up for me right now. I know it's gross but it's reality. My bet is that you're not all that smooth either!

Sweet Dreams

2012-01-04T14:20:00.000-08:00

Awwww...I just love this picture! Mostly because when I snapped this photo every child in my house was asleep. Oh the beauty of stillness in the middle of the day. There is something just so wonderful about a sleeping child, so peaceful, tender, sweet. Fortunately, our little man is pretty dang sweet even when he's awake. Love him!

Go Bananas

2012-01-03T14:35:00.000-08:00

You may think the girls in this pic are eating bananas but you'd be wrong. Around here, thanks to Ella's pronunciation skills, the yummy fruit with a bright yellow peel is referred to as "poonanas". Cause after all, who wouldn't enjoy a delicious poonana?

Happy Feet

2012-01-02T20:59:00.000-08:00

A pedicure with Aubs, was a perfect way to spend some girl time today. She is Ella's amazing birth mom. We consider ourselves so very lucky to have "Aubrey-go" in our lives. Not only has she blessed our family with the addition of beautiful little Ella but she has become one of my dearest friends. I so love this girl! You would be lucky to know her too!

A New Year

2012-01-01T21:41:00.000-08:00

And 2012 begins...

Lula insisted she's big enough to peel an orange herself. She did a pretty good job but ended up soliciting help from dad.

"Rockin' Grover" microphone is a favorite gift from Santa to Ella. This girl loves to sing.

To celebrate the first day of the new year, Nash stayed in his pj's all day...hmmm...that's not all that different from any other day. Guess today it's special simply because I took a picture!

Feed Me!

2011-11-08T10:22:00.000-08:00

What's this?!? Solid food? I love it! Give me more!

Tricks and Treats

2011-11-02T09:00:00.000-07:00

The girls got their first taste of trick or treating at preschool a few day prior to Halloween. Needless to say by the time the big day rolled around they had mastered the phrase "Trick or Treat!" Chocolate and smarties are a hit at this house!

A mouse, a monkey and a spotted dog. It's a zoo around here so an animal theme for Halloween fit the kids perfectly! Hogle has got nothing on us! Well ok, maybe it does since it has a train and just a few more animals but good luck finding any as cute as these!

Fall Fun

2011-10-20T08:37:00.000-07:00

2 Is The Number Of The Day

2011-08-19T20:11:00.000-07:00

Oh Ella-Bo-Bella, what ever will we do with you?!? You're such funny little bug! Your quirky personality makes us smile every day. You're mostly sweet, a little naughty, very stubborn, and cute as can be! You are a very independent two-year-old. "No! Eeyah, do it" is a common phase around our house. Things you love...
-Lula or as you call her "Ooduh". She is your best friend even though the two of you fight like crazy. You are her little shadow, doing and saying everything she does.
-Nash. You can't seem to get enough of your new baby brother and love giving him a "huuuuuug" and a "keess" any chance you get. It's so cute!
-Daddy. You are definitely a "daddy's girl" and he is your favorite person in the whole world!
-To Sing. You have the cutest little voice and when you sing it's even cuter! You'll sing anything but some of your favorites are Primary Song like "Sunbeep", "Tempo" and "Pockcorn".
-Screaming. Boy are you a screamer! Much to the dislike of your parents! Your ear piercing squeals could raise the dead. Pretty sure the neighbor's dogs howl in pain every time you have a tantrum!

Baby Nash

2011-08-02T21:05:00.000-07:00

Nash Greg Allred

8 Pounds 9 ounces

21 inches

Two Weeks

2011-08-02T20:47:00.001-07:00

Two weeks ago today at 11:18 am, this not so little guy made his entrance into this world. What an amazing expirience it was! We are so thrilled he is here! He is such a good baby! We are so lucky to have him!

Chubby-licious!

2011-07-12T13:44:00.000-07:00

Because I never thought I'd be this way or know if it will ever happen again, I decided I had to document this. So this is me at 38 weeks. So very grateful for this experience, so overwhelmed with what lies ahead, and so not ready for this to be over so soon! Amazing!

Independence Day

2011-07-10T20:49:00.001-07:00

This year we celebrated the 4th of July Magna style...the sweet Magna City Parade(everyone should experience it at least once in their life!), a BBQ with cousins, water balloons, bubbles, and side walk chalk. Needless to say, our girls now think that Magna, Utah is a little piece of heaven! Ha!

Lions and Tigers and Bears

2011-07-10T20:31:00.000-07:00

Some sunshine, a bunch of animals, two rides on the train, followed by lunch at Ruth's Diner(yum!). Now that makes for a great zoo day!

Spectacles

2011-05-16T19:43:00.000-07:00

Dodging the paparazzi on an almost daily basis, is sometimes just so hard!

My! What big eyes you have!

Lucky 13

2011-05-08T14:30:00.000-07:00

Happy Easter

2011-04-28T13:55:00.000-07:00

Easter baskets, egg hunts, and new dresses...a perfect Easter Weekend!

Pardon Me While I Pick My Jaw Up Off The Floor!

2011-03-23T14:32:00.000-07:00

Um...so I know that "proper previous planning, prevents poor performance" but I can tell you that our current situation was definitely NOT planned! However, Greg and I are both very pleased with the performance...

Yup, it's true! We are expecting a new addition to our family at the end of July! Somehow, unbeknownst to us, Greg has become a baby making stud! Surpriiiise! I know it's a bit shocking so I'll pause a moment to let it sink in................ok pause over, let the laughing begin cause I know that's what you're doing! It's fine, I can take it! I may even deserve it!

Here's a peek at the little one...

It's a...........................

Boy! Boy! Boy!

And for those of you that are math geniuses, you have already figured out that this means we will have THREE kids TWO and under! Bring on the minivan! Ugh!

Two Day

2011-03-16T13:33:00.000-07:00

Hi there! It's me, Eee-yah(that's how I say my name). Today is my birthday! I'm two years old! It's been a pretty good day so far.

I didn't wake up until almost 8am, which my mom way appreciates! However, she wasn't all that happy that I had been sucking on my thumb. She said that it was gross but I just told her "it's ok mom". That made her laugh so I think I'll probably suck on it again during my nap this afternoon.

My birthday breakfast was Cream of Wheat, yum! My mom thinks I should have a "hot" breakfast so everyday it's always Cream of Wheat or oatmeal, which is totally fine by me cause I love them both and breakfast is my favorite meal of the day. Mom says it's the one meal of the day that she can always count on me eating right up. Oh! By the way, I am NOT a messy eater like my little sister! No way! If I accidentally spill some food, I immediately notify an adult and sit politely until it's been cleaned up. I'm awesome like that!

I got to watch "Hot Dog" today, that's what I call Mickey Mouse Clubhouse. I also got to watch Elmo too. He's my absolute favorite! I love to dance during the Elmo's World song. I also like to say "ha-whoa Dorfee" to Elmo's goldfish. She's so cute!

Mom gave me a yummy cupcake for my birthday. I thought that was pretty nice of her even though I would rather have a bag of Harvest Cheddar Sun Chips. She knows I like salty stuff more than sweet stuff but she said it's the thought that counts. I would normally agree with that but since she only gave me like two bites of the cupcake and then snarfed the rest down for herself, it kinda makes me think that the "thought that counts" was only for herself! Hmm....

I only made Al-lah(that's how I say my little sister's name) cry two maybe three times today. That's pretty good for me if I do say so myself!

So I'm still waiting to open some presents. Mom says I have to wait until Saturday cause that's when we are celebrating mine and my cousin, Cole's birthday since his is today too. Really I think mom is just saying that cause she probably hasn't even gotten me a present yet. She's great and all but she is the worst procrastinator ever! Yeah, I'm betting she's still working on what to get me. Hopefully she'll get with the program soon...like before my next birthday!!

Happy 2nd Birthday Lula Mae!!!

Mush Mess

2011-03-13T14:14:00.000-07:00

I'm throwing in the towel! You win! Don't let me help/teach you to use a fork and spoon or anything! Go ahead and do it yourself by mashing all your food through your chubby little fingers, rubbing it into your hair, and pushing it up your nose. I don't care how you eat it, just eat it! I'm done!

Don't let this angel face fool you, she is a stubborn, absolutely defiant little stinker! In no way does this picture do justice to the incredible mess this mischievous little miss makes when she eats. She needs a serious hose down after every meal!

Good thing we love you so much, Miss Ella! Your messy mess is worth it!!

The Cheap Seats

2011-02-25T14:51:00.000-08:00

Individual Elmos in hand, seated in their dolly strollers is definitely the preferred viewing position. They are in love with this furry red little monster.

Sweet Treats

2011-02-14T21:47:00.000-08:00

XOXOXOX

(The cute aprons are compliments of my Aunt Irene.)

Blah Blah Blah

2011-02-03T15:37:00.000-08:00

I'll blog one of these days....promise!

Merry Christmas...?

2010-12-26T20:24:00.000-08:00

So apparently my girls haven't quite caught the sharing part of the Christmas Spirit. Unfortunately I'm sure I can expect this behavior for many more Christmas' to come.

PS: To get the full effect of all the love, be sure to turn up your speakers;)

Bad Santa

2010-12-23T20:03:00.000-08:00

So my awesome friend forwarded the following email to me that was sent to her by a family member regarding their family Christmas party. This is an honest to goodness, not even made up at all email. Hope it makes you smile!

Merry Christmas Family,

Just a note about Santa - He has a bad back so can't lift the kids. Anyone who wants to sit on his lap, and he would love that, needs to be placed there by the parents and then lifted down by someone. Hopefully, parents will be right there to help out. The bigger kids can stand by Santa to talk to him. Also - last Monday Santa burned the back of his right hand - 2nd degree burns. It's feeling much better but he will be wearing gloves - mostly not to upset or distract the kids. His hand is wrapped and Mrs. Claus is still changing the dressing twice daily. Santa is feeling much better now but he's had a rough time lately.

Amy, if one of your older kids could stand by Santa and be his "special helper" that would be great. He says he may need help with "page turning" and maybe handing out the gift he has for each and every child ages 0 - 17. I'm thinking of course, Hanna or Kit would work out great as Santa assistants.

See you Monday night. Santa has been asked to show up between 6:30 and 7:00.

Aunt Linda

DISCLAIMER: I am not making fun of Santa, poor guy. I just simply find it all amusing!

MERRY CHRISTMAS!

Picture Perfect

2010-12-10T19:52:00.000-08:00

This is what the majority of the photo shoot was like:

Yet somehow the amazing Skye Johansen captured tons like this:

Love! Love! Love!

Save your pennies people! She is worth every cent!

Full Of Thanks

2010-11-23T09:30:00.001-08:00

So thankful for these two little turkeys! So grateful to have them in our life! We are blessed!

Spooky Spells & Cat Tails

2010-10-31T15:15:00.000-07:00

HALLOWEEN
by Myra Cohen Livingston

Green cats eyes
in midnight gloom
fly with the witch
on her ragged broom
over dark hills where
bonfires loom

HAPPY HALLOWEEN!

From The Witch and her Little Black Cat

Position Available

2010-10-04T19:24:00.000-07:00

Hi,
I just want to let everyone know that I am currently taking applications for a new mom. I don't like the one I've got so I'm looking to replace her. Qualifications of new mom are as follows:

-Let me put every dirty thing I find in my mouth
-Don't dress me, I like to be naked
-Let me put my fingers in electrical outlets
-Don't make me drink milk or eat anything that is good for me
-Think my tantrums are cute and adorable, not ridiculous and annoying
-Let me eat cake and cake only
-Never make me take a nap
-Let me rot in my diaper all day long no matter how bad it smells

Please apply as soon as possible since getting rid of the meanest mom in the world is priority numero uno!
Best Regards,
Ella

Mmmmm Cake!

2010-09-05T20:13:00.000-07:00

Date Of Birth

2010-08-19T22:30:00.000-07:00

Your birth is the first and only that I have witnessed. It’s hard for me to find the words to describe such an event…Amazing…Miraculous…Unforgettable…Life Changing…Yes, you have definitely changed my life! The spirit that filled the hospital room as you came to this life was so strong and fragile; it brought tears to my eyes. I felt the presence of the angles that brought you safety to this world and to us. Such a beautiful day for a beautiful baby! Your birth is forever etched in my memory and in my heart! I’m so grateful I was there!

Happy Birthday little Ella-bug!
Our lives are blessed because of your birth! We love you!

Can You Hear Me Now?

2010-07-23T20:05:00.000-07:00

Stop calling stop calling I don’t wanna talk anymore! Yeah right! More like call me anytime! I love talking on the phone! In fact I’m obsessed with it! Specifically cell phones but my lame-o mom and dad won’t even buy me one! They think I’m too young so they keep trying to give me “toy” ones like I’m some kinda idiot! Hello? It’s not like I’m a newborn anymore! Stop treating me like one! My parentals are SO two thousand and late! Whatev! Guess I’ll just have ta make due with this stupid landline. Seriously!? A landline?! Do people like even use those anymore?! So embarrassing! Ugh! Parents just don’t understand!

Toddlers & Tiaras

2010-07-18T19:47:00.000-07:00

These future Miss Americas entered their first Cute Baby Contests this summer and since they are definitely cuties they both came away winners. However, we were first-timers at the contests and didn’t realize the seriousness of the competition! Don’t you fret though because we won’t make that mistake again! These girls are already fine-tuning their talent numbers for next year! And now that these little novices have gotten their feet wet, you can bet that they’ll be lighting up the pageant scene in no time! So I’m looking for a personal stylist to help them perfect their walk, wave, brow waxing, false teeth, and fake hair. Also a designer to create their over the top, blinged out, ultra expensive costumes. Full Glitz here we come!

Summer Summer Summertime

2010-07-10T19:27:00.000-07:00

Fleeting

2010-06-14T20:43:00.000-07:00

I snapped the pics of this blue-eyed beauty earlier today. Then, as I held her in my arms and rocked her to sleep on my neighbors’ swing, I thought about how I wished today would last a little longer. Listening to her sleepy little sighs, smelling her freshly washed hair, and feeling her heaviness in my arms. I know that tomorrow brings the brightness of a new day, a fresh new start. But right now, for just this moment, I think I’ll savor today.

The Fifth Month

2010-06-03T13:34:00.000-07:00

Looks like the whole month of May came and went without a single post. Guess I have to do one of those "This is what we've been up to lately" posts. So the following is a sample of why I'm just way way too busy to blog!

-Birthday Celebration...Another year older, a few more gray hairs, he's still as hot as ever!
-Wedding Anniversary...Twelve years of marital bliss! I know it sounds mushy and makes everyone want to gag but when you're as love struck as I am, you can't help but tell the world!
-Buttocks Fat Injections...Come on people get with the program! Thin is sooo last year! Time to eat a cupcake...or ten...all in the same day!
-Vegas Vacation...Farmed out the little ones and had a good ol' time! Thanks grandma & grandpa and Aunty Tara!
-High School Graduations...Feeling like the drive to Southern Utah gets longer and longer every time I do it! But it was worth it to see my nephews get proof that they are Smarty McSmarts!
-Snot Factory Grand Opening...Production is at an all time high with these two little noses! Now if I could only find some buyers for all this gross slimey gunk, I'd be rolling in the dough!
-Two New Church Callings...Yeah, we go to church. Don't act so surprised!
-House Guests...Who knew that Holly's Hotel would be so popular?!?
-Book One & Two of The Hunger Games...That's really what I was doing when I should have been posting on this blog. I sat on my ever expanding rear end and did nothing but read. And come August when book three is released, don't plan on any posts then either!

Like Peanut Butter & Jelly

2010-04-25T18:23:00.000-07:00

Big Blue

2010-04-06T14:02:00.000-07:00

Official t-shirt purchased at Duke University Book Store...Check!

Favorite pair of Blue Devils ball shorts...Check!

Another NCAA Championship Trophy...Check & Double Check!
One happy Greg...Check yes!!!

Considering the current economy, I sometimes wish you were a snobby private school alumni with a Country Club Estate inheritance...I'm just sayin'...it might be nice!

Th!nk P!nk

2010-04-02T18:48:00.000-07:00

A Year Ago Today

2010-03-16T08:27:00.000-07:00

A year ago today…so much has happen in a year, so much joy and pain, so much love and heartache. It all began a year ago today.

A year ago today, you came into this world...
We weren’t there to witness your arrival but I know it was miraculous because you are a miracle!

A year ago tomorrow, we met you for the very first time...
The minute we saw you, held you, smelled you we were smitten! You were ours! You had on a cute little green knit hat and when the nurse pulled it off…poof! There was a ton of the most beautiful curly black we had ever seen.

A year ago this week, we were the happiest we had ever been...
We weren’t prepared for how fast we would fall in love with you! How totally and completely you changed our lives for the better! Suddenly, we couldn’t remember life before you! You had become our life! Such joy and happiness, it was bliss!

A year ago this Friday, it all came crashing down...
A million tears fell from ours eyes as I handed you back to your birth mom. My heart stopped beating as it shattered into tiny pieces. “She eats 2 ounces about every four hours….Here’s her car seat and all of her clothes are in this bag…Don’t forget to burp her…She's such a good baby...She loves her binky…We love her…Please let us keep her...Please.......”

A year ago the following Friday, a miracle occurred...
Many prayers had been offered on our behalf and those prayers were answered! You were coming back to us! Such a glorious reunion! You were even more beautiful and more perfect! And we were finally whole again!

Happy Birthday Lula Mae! We are so thrilled that you were born a year ago, today!

Forever A Family

2010-03-14T19:43:00.001-07:00

Proof that blood just isn't thicker than water!

Gimme An "E"!

2010-02-19T19:38:00.000-08:00

It's amazing to think that only six short months ago you blessed this world with your birth! We are so very lucky to have in our family! Your smile is a joyful delight! And that adorable laugh, well we simply couldn't live without it! Oh how we love you!!

Long Time No See FSP!

2010-01-31T17:13:00.001-08:00

WHAT: Singles Ward Cutest Couple Of The Year! Duh!

WHEN: So long ago I can barely remember, like 1996 or '97 or something like that!

WHERE: My Branbury apartment in Parvo, Utah(or if you prefer correct pronunciation)Provo, Utah.

WHAT THE ?!?: Yeah it's BYU Approved Housing so no Greg isn't supposed to be in my room let alone (gasp!) sitting on my bed! Scandalous! Like oh my gosh guys I totally could have be kicked out!

Resolutions...Not At This House!

2010-01-18T15:44:00.000-08:00

So instead of updating my blog I've been busy reading others. As I've read various blogs I've noticed many people have made New Year's Resolutions. Many of these resolutions include things like updating their blog better, losing weight and getting more fit, being a better mother, working on personal spirituality etc.... These resolutions are admirable and I applaud those who have made them. I thought about making some resolutions but I know myself all too well and I know that updating this blog on a regular basis isn't a priority, the likelihood of me losing weight is slim(ha ha "slim" that's funny), I won't be up for any "Mother of the Year" awards, and I'll probably never become a spiritual phenom. That's FEEEEnom as in FEE-nom-in-on, FEE-nom-in-AL, FEE-diddy, FEE-shizzle.....Ok where was I? That's right, blabbing about resolutions and how I suck at them. So the closest thing to a resolution that I could come up with is this...drum roll please.........I'm just going to try to do better at what I already do! Sounds easy enough, right? This means I'm going to keep eating like crap and not exercising, keep losing patience with my girls, keep wasting my few precious minutes of "free time" on mindless television shows, re-read the 1st chapter of the BOM for like the millionth time and so on. As I step on the scale, it looks like I'm already on my way to keeping my sorta resolution! Bring on the cheesecake!

Well I'm rambling but who cares since I know no one really reads this blog anyway. You all just want to see pictures of the girls. I could write a bunch of nonsense like "she-jong-ho-bay-bay-city" or "mess with the frog and you're gonna get jumped" or "free-furty-free" and no one will even care! Blah! Blah! Blah! Whatever! Enjoy the picture overload!

ELLA BELLA BOO

LULA LU MAGOO

Happy Holidays!

2009-12-23T12:53:00.000-08:00

The Good

2009-12-04T11:58:00.000-08:00

This is the “good” child. She politely stays wherever she is put. She happily sits in her bouncy chair, bumbo or swing. She will lay under her mobile and jibber jabber and kick to her little hearts content. She is a joy! Such a sweet thing! So happy, so good and so smiley! She thinks her big sister is the funniest thing ever! She laughs and laughs whenever Lula is around. So very cute!

The Bad

2009-12-04T11:35:00.001-08:00

This is the “bad” child. This naughty little thing is all over the place! She goes from one room to another leaving a path of slobbery destruction. We try to keep her somewhat contained by putting her in her playpen or walker but it never lasts very long. You wouldn’t believe the fits this little angel can throw when she doesn’t get her way! Not to mention the waterfall of tears that add to her dramatics! She thinks she should be walking and is trying her darnedest to make it so! Whew! I get tired just writing about her! Such a rambunctious little cuss! So very naughty!

And The Ugly

2009-12-04T11:24:00.001-08:00

The “ugly” truth is that all too soon this will be over! The toys strung throughout the house, the dirty diapers, the endless bottles, the slobber…it will all be gone one day and it will be missed! So very sad!

The Great Pumpkins

2009-10-31T20:13:00.001-07:00

Bound Together

2009-10-26T10:14:00.000-07:00

Ours Forever...

On Earth...

And in Heaven!

Thank you to all the family and friends, several who traveled a great distance, that participated in our joy filled weekend! It was a dream come true! A special thanks to the following ladies who are responsible for making our luscious little Lula look her very best!
-My sister, Heidi, who fashioned the most beautiful sealing dress for Lula out of material from my wedding dress. It was exactly as I had hoped it would be! You really should go into business!
-The always amazing and oh so talented Tara, whose one-of-a-kind creations adorned not only Lula but Ella too. You truly make everything better, my dear friend! I wouldn’t have survived without you!
-Anne and Dawn who were an answer to my shopping nightmare prayers! Your daughters are the best-dressed chicas around! Thanks for sharing!

Don't Blink

2009-10-12T16:18:00.000-07:00

So I’m looking to purchase some time in a bottle. Not the kind to cover my graying hair or smooth the multiplying wrinkles on my face “for younger more healthy looking skin”. (Although I do need a little help in these areas...or maybe a lot!) No, I’m looking for the kind of time in a bottle that will slow down the warp speed of which my babies are growing. I feel like I’ve waited for sooooo long to get these little ones that it’s just not fair that they won’t stay little!

Our 7 month old looks so grown up as she sits unassisted on the floor gumming to death anything she can get her hands on. And despite our best efforts to discourage her mobility she is on the verge of crawling! Crawling?!? Seriously, Lula!?! Did you not just come home from North Caroline like three weeks ago?!?

Our 8 week old has decided that it’s time for her to make the transition to only waking up once a night. Which, if I’m being totally honest, is nice but makes me feel a bit less needed. She has been smiling for a while now and it's just to die for! Any day now she is going to figure out how to laugh. I know it will be wonderful but it will also mean that another milestone has come and gone.

Why is it that when you’re waiting for something, time drags on for what seems like forever and then when you get that something, time is gone in the blink of an eye?

Precious Pearl

2009-09-16T14:27:00.000-07:00

Lula: a calm, peaceful woman / as precious as a pearl

Oh how can six months possibly pass by so fast?!? Our sweet little chocolate morsel, Lula-ma-goo-la, what an incredible blessing you are! You make every day brighter with your beautiful smile and laughing eyes! You truly are so very precious!!!

Snip Snip

2009-09-13T18:35:00.001-07:00

Well ol' buddy, it's been a good ride! Many a female has enjoyed your studly services. Unfortunately, the time has come to say good-bye to the family jewels. Don't worry though, you'll always be our little man...even without the goods!

Oh So Sweet!

2009-09-02T15:05:00.000-07:00

New Addition

2009-08-30T20:12:00.000-07:00

Lula has an announcement...

I'm a big sister!!!

Yes, it's true! Through a series of miraculous events, we have had the amazing opportunity to adopt another beautiful baby girl! Little Ella arrived on August 19th weighing in at 6lbs 6oz, 18.5 inches. We have been truly blessed!!!

FSP Rides Again!

2009-08-17T15:10:00.000-07:00

No I didn't forget about the "Flippin' Sweet Photos" feature on this blog. I've just been lazy. But never fear cause it's back! Booyah!

WHAT: Some crazy dude

WHEN: September 2001

WHERE: Las Vegas

WHAT THE?!? Umm...yikes!

MMMM Tasty!

2009-07-27T21:01:00.000-07:00

1 tablespoon rice cereal + 1 baby = 1 adorable mess

Let Freedom Ring

2009-07-04T16:54:00.000-07:00

“I believe in America. I am grateful for the Constitution under which this nation lives and moves and has its being. I am profoundly grateful that somehow for more than two centuries of time we have existed as a nation and grown to become the strongest and most free in the entire world. I am grateful for those men whom the God in Heaven raised up and inspired and who pledged their lives, their fortunes, and their sacred honor to establish this nation and its government. I believe in America—one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. We are, of course, not without fault. We have more than our share of crime and of every other evil to be found on earth. I fear that we have become an arrogant people, but when all is said and done there is no other nation quite like this nation.”

-Gordon B. Hinkley

Hair Play

2009-06-10T14:55:00.000-07:00

I try to play dress-up with Lula but she hates it! She throws the biggest fits when I change her clothes! I wish she wasn't so content to be in a plain old onesie all day long! At least she lets me dress-up her hair. She is the best hat, headband, and hair bow model ever! She will sit in her bumbo and let me play with all her fun hair accessories to my hearts content! And thanks to our fabulous family members and friends, I have tons to choose from! So thanks Lula for putting up with your crazy mother who is so happy to finally have her very own "life-size" American Girl Doll!

Bad Nurse, Good Baby

2009-05-22T15:43:00.000-07:00

Lula had her 2 month check-up and she is doing great! However, the shot part of the check-up was not so great! The poor little thing was just laying there being so good, thinking the nurses were there to play with her. Then they stuck those needles in her and she screamed like crazy! It was so sad! Thank goodness it's over!! She weighted in at 9 pounds 4 ounces and she is now 22 inches long. I'm certain she will pass me up in the height department by the time she is 10 years old!
Lula is such a great baby! She has truly blessed our lives! Ruger is even getting better with her. Need more proof that she is a great baby? Well here it is...she has been sleeping through the night for over a week now! It's glorious! Oh, and have I mentioned that she NEVER spits up! How great is that?!? OK, I'm done bragging. Here are some cute snapshots of lovely little Lula!

Fat Patience

2009-05-19T18:53:00.000-07:00

Last Sunday, I had my “almost” professional photographer sister take some photos of our new little family. She did a great job and gave me many to choose from. Unfortunately, Lula was not on her best behavior. She was grouchy and just had to have that dang binky! Of course, as soon as our little photo shoot ended, Lula decided it was time to be Miss Content. But by then Greg had already left for church and I had taken off her cute dress and headband. What a stinker!
Later, as I scanned through the photos, I had two almost simultaneous thoughts. First, was that I wished the camera could miraculously take away 15 to 20 pounds of my fat. Second, was that in several photos I can tell that my patience with Lula is starting to wear thin. Those two thoughts led to the following thoughts...I wish my fat would wear thin instead of my patience. It would also be nice if I could lose my fat as fast as I lose my patience. I have all this fat that I don’t need but very little patience, which I do need! I need fat patience! Wouldn’t it be great if my patience could be as chubby as my body and my body be as thin as my patience! That would be fantastic! But then again, if I did lose fat that easily and that often, I’d probably be dead. There wouldn’t even be anything left of me! I guess the up side is that at least I’d be kicking it in the after-life with some thunder thigh sized patience!

Hope you enjoy the pics!

Perfect Present

2009-05-08T09:44:00.000-07:00

Greg's thirty-(well lets just say)thirty-something birthday was on Wednesday. I wanted to get him a gift from Lula but couldn't think of anything. Finally I decided on a mini cake with little pink flowers on it. I know that sounds girly but I figured it's what Lula would pick out and Greg is a little girly sometimes. (The dude takes longer showers than I do!) Well apparently I shouldn't have worried about getting him a gift from Lula cause she came up with one all on her own...she started smiling! It was the cutest thing ever! And it wasn't even gas although she IS the tootenest thing ever! We went shopping for Greg's birthday(see I told you he was girly) and I had set her car seat down on a rack of clothes. When Greg walked up to her, pulled her binky out of her mouth and said, "Hey there little baby." Suddenly she was all smiles for him! It was awesome! He couldn't have asked for a better present!

April Showers Bring Mae Flowers

2009-04-30T13:21:00.000-07:00

This post is supposed to be about both of Lula's baby showers but really it's just to show off these super cute pics of her! Over the last few weeks it has become painfully obvious to me that number 1-I'm probably going to be the mom that constantly blogs about every little (and of course) absolutely amazing thing her child does. And number 2-That it's OK because no one gives a hoot about Greg and I anymore! Lula is the superstar and we are simply no-name extras (not even B-list actors) in the mega hit movie known as Lula's Life!

I do, however, want to sincerely thank everyone for the fantastic gifts and the time and effort that was put into the wonderful showers. THANK YOU!! I truly have the greatest friends, neighbors and co-workers! I love you all!

Two girls I work with, Anne and Megan, recently added to their families as well. Anne's beautiful baby girl was born on the 5th of February and Megan's little man shares his birth date with Lula.

Austin is a high school kid that does all the crappy jobs at work. We call him the garbage boy. He showed up to the shower for the free food. However, he made a hasty exit went the talk turned to breast-feeding and the types of nipples for bottle-feeding. Poor boy!

FSP(Flippin' Sweet Photo)

2009-04-19T10:52:00.000-07:00

WHAT: Skinny white boy with his pet deer

WHEN: May 1992

WHERE: Greg's front yard

WHAT THE?!? Doe a deer a female deer...she must have been attracted to the way the sunlight reflects off of Greg's skin. I know the feeling. I too am mesmerized by this hot little number!

One Cute Chick

2009-04-12T21:44:00.000-07:00

A tisket a tasket

So grateful for a baby

In our basket!

May the love of our Savior fill your baskets with joyful blessings!

Happy Easter!

Playing Second Fiddle

2009-04-02T15:37:00.000-07:00

Perplexed, perturbed, and picked-on. I'm fairly certain that is how our poor little dog, Ruger, is feeling. Ruger has ruled this roost for the past seven years and likes his nice quite routine. So as you can imagine, he is none too happy about the recent addition to our family. I think if he could talk, he would say "I don't like it! I don't like it! TAKE IT BACK!"

Yum-A-Licious

2009-04-02T15:32:00.000-07:00

A Miracle!

2009-03-30T18:32:00.000-07:00

We have been truly blessed! I (I being, Holly, the only person who actually contributes to this little blog!) am again in the great state of North Carolina, getting our baby back! I know, crazy huh! Have I mentioned how maddening March has been?!? Fortunately for us, the birth mom had a change of heart and decided she did want us to adopt her baby. Words cannot describe how incredibly grateful we are for this miracle! It is an answer to many prayers! It feels sooo good to have this beautiful baby back in my arms!! Baby Lula (we are still working on a middle name) was born early on the morning of March 16th weighing 6lbs 4oz. She is a dream! I send my love and thanks to all our amazing family and friends! Greg and I could not have made it through this with out you! Not sure how long I'll be stuck in N.C. but I hope to see you all soon! Lula and I are both missing her daddy very much!

The Madness of March

2009-03-26T20:47:00.000-07:00

Lately the term “March Madness” seems to apply not only to the NCAA basketball tournament but also to our normally boring life….youth conference, funerals, birthdays, and last minute flights...oh the madness of it all! In that madness, I spaced one of my very dear friend’s birthday. So Happy (very belated) Birthday T-Money! You don’t look a day over 25!

Spending a weekend with the local fourteen to eighteen year-olds isn’t exactly the most joyous thing in the world but we survived it. Thankfully the teenage angst and drama were kept to a minimum.

YOUTH CONFERENCE 2009

My dear Grandma passed away at the ripe old age of 94. At the viewing, small laminated copies of her favorite sugar cookie recipe were given out to all the guests. The cookies may not be gourmet but the memories associated with them are worth millions!

Grandma Payne’s Cookies
2 cups sugar
¼ cup butter/margerine
½ cup shortening
2 eggs
1 cup milk
½ teaspoon salt
5 teaspoons baking powder
2 teaspoons vanilla
5 cups flour
Bake at 350 for 8 to10 minutes

We jetted off to North Carolina in hopes of adopting a beautiful baby girl. Unfortunately things didn’t work out. We want to thank all of our wonderful family and friends and the support they have given us. Also, a special thanks to Charlotte at Humble Mill Pottery for putting us up in her whimsical 1920’s home.

so precious...so close...so frustrating...

While in North Carolina, Greg’s dream of visiting Duke University was fulfilled. However, he was pretty bummed out when we learned that the doors were locked to Cameron Indoor Stadium. Good thing we are sneaky sneaky! There are some glass doors on the side of the Stadium and if you jiggle them just right…

Flippin' Sweet Photo Intro

2009-03-09T19:25:00.001-07:00

We are calling this feature Flippin' Sweet Photo or FSP for all you abbreviation fans out there. In hopes of keeping this blog somewhat interesting, we will randomly post a Flippin' Sweet Photo/FSP from our past. We'll even throw in a little info about the FSP. We hope you will find this feature as amusing as we do! Laugh it up!

WHAT: We were dating and this is the first vacation we took together.

WHEN: September 1997

WHERE: Seattle, Washington

WHAT THE?!?: Sweet cowboy boots, too bad they are no longer in style. Oh wait, that's right, they never were!

Snow Birds

2009-02-25T20:39:00.001-08:00

We’re not blue hairs yet but Greg’s joints creak when he walks, so we joined the 55 and older crowd and headed south on I-15 for some warmer weather. Our February trip to AZ has become a much-anticipated tradition. Goodbye snow, hello sunshine! We are blessed to have truly remarkable friends that made our vacation an absolute delight! Thanks to Chef J, the food (as always) was delicious! T-Money, you are the most craft-tastic crafter I know! The only draw back…I now have a slamming headache due to the caffeine withdrawals! I had no idea how quickly one could become accustom to multiple trips to Sonic in a day! I am amazed at the amount of diet coke one skinny little blonde can drink before noon! We love you guys!

You wouldn't believe the number of pics we have with Greg pulling faces, not looking at the camera, or displaying his middle finger! Actually, if you know Greg, you would believe it cause you probably have some similar pics of your own. Man, I love this guy!

Chicken Soup

2009-02-25T20:11:00.000-08:00

The home of my older sister, Heidi, is affectionately known as “the zoo”. Pretty much it’s chaos there 24/7. We spent a night at her house last week and she sent the following email regarding the fiasco to her oldest son in California.

Just thought I would share a funny story from the zoo. Tuesday night Holly and Greg were passing through and needed to sleep here. I had forgotten they were coming and I was at the girls’ ball game when I remembered they were on their way. When we got home, Ty was really sick to his stomach and Kosha had complained that she didn't feel good, but she always does that so I didn't pay much attention to her. We did get the mattress in, bed made, floor vacuumed and the bathroom cleaned before they got here. After everyone got settled down, Ty couldn't sleep cause he hurt too bad. I was up because I had a sinus infection. I took some medicine then laid down on the floor by the heater and Ty was on the couch. Then Misty threw up so she came and laid by us too. At 2:30am, Danny's (he's a nieghbor) rooster started crowing, waking Holly and Greg up. Then the darn thing started crowing again at 3:30, 4:30 and so on. Dad was up with a headache around 4am, he left for work at 5. Justin threw up about 2 feet from the bathroom, like you used to do. So I had to clean that up about 5:30. Finally, it was really quiet from then till 7:15. Poor Holly and Greg, they knew they spent the night at the zoo. Kosha threw up about 8am so I let her stay home. Good thing too because I was too sick to take care of Jessie so I went back to bed. It wasn't the best day or night we’ve had in a long time.
Well, I guess I better get busy cause I know my house went to pot and I’m grouchy. Just thought I'd share my funny, I figured you could appreciate the zoo.
Love, Mom

PS: I told Holly and Greg when they came back through we would have chicken dinner. Greg said sure as long as he was the one to wring the rooster's neck. I wonder if Danny would miss his new rooster very much?

Better Late Than Never

2009-02-14T10:46:00.000-08:00

This may look like a Valentines Day Card but really it is an Anniversary Card in disguise! My valentine is very much like this card…a romantic softy disguised as a tough guy! He writes:

Holly-
Wow! Here it is, it’s already Valentines Day! No wait, it’s May 8th! You were bad in February so I said, “No card for you!” But I did save it for this very special occasion. I cannot believe it has been 10 years! It has been truly amazing!….(there’s more but it’s way too mushy)

So whether you are good or bad this Valentines Day, we hope you have a happy one!

First Words

2009-02-11T20:13:00.000-08:00

OK, so we created this blog about a month ago and have yet to post anything. Sooooooooo here it is! Our first official post! Please be patient with us as we get the hang of this whole blog thing. Yes, we are those people who have made fun of others for blogging so we just want to say that we are very sorry. Also, please feel free to make fun of us at anytime, as we are certain we deserve it! Actually, we hope you do laugh and find much enjoyment in future posts. We both feel that at the end of the day, it’s really all about the laughs we have had! So we wish you happy reading!