I love Christmas...

Here are some fun photos of my kids on Christmas morning. They had a blast opening presents. We didn't tell the oldest that it was Christmas until that morning. I think this is the last year we'll be able to get away with that. It was also his birthday, so he had lots of fun.
It was nonstop play ALL DAY LONG. We didn't even attempt to put him down for a nap.
Little man's newest achievement is climbing all over EVERYTHING. He especially likes to climb and stand on the kitchen table.
It was a great Christmas and holiday season. We feel very blessed to have two cute boys, a wonderful home, friends and family that we love, and so much more.

It sounded like a good idea at the time...

Who doesn't like pinata fun? Unless you've been hit in the eye with the bat (like I was years and years ago) or unless you're a big Thomas the Train fan. My youngest had no problem taking a few whacks at Thomas. That may be because he loves using a bat and will hit anything he can.
The oldest was another story. He was very concerned that first of all we were hitting Thomas and second of all we were hitting at all. It was all very confusing for him. He didn't hit it very hard and that was only after a lot of coaxing from dad. The only highlight was the candy that came out at the end.

It has begun...

There's a terror that begins around 16 months old. I had somehow blocked it from my mind after experiencing it with big man. Those memories have come pouring back after seeing the havoc little man has created. Instead of getting mad, I decided to take some pictures. If only he knew the clean up song...

December Fun

Here are some fun photos of our December activities. It's been a busy month so far and it's only 2/3 of the way over.

We rode trax down to temple square with the cousins. Big man had a blast. He was wild and crazy all night long. This photo is in front of the reflection pool.

They all had fun posing for photos.

Big man was more interested in the candy cane than Santa himself. Little man was not happy about being on his lap.

After 20 (or more) takes and several bribes, this was the best I could get of the boys. It turned out pretty cute. Every time I'd get little man posed and get the camera in place, he was up and running. It was an exhausting process.

The best is yet to come with Christmas parties and presents. After that I'm looking forward to some quiet time. I love this time of year, but it also can get a little crazy.

First Snow

When I first showed big man the snow this morning, he said "I want to walk in it." He had a blast in the backyard making tracks and exploring. Occasionally a glove would fall off and he'd have to come in for a minute, but I'd say he spent a good 45 minutes outside. He loved it. Jeff and I had a good time watching him out the window.

Polar Express

My oldest was at his grandma's house when the Today show was on. The featured story was the Polar Express up in Heber City. When I picked him up, he informed me that he needed tickets. I said no, and Grandma said fine, we'll take him. So, Grandma and Grandpa booked tickets for them and the three oldest grandkids. You can tell who has the final say...the munchkin and Grandma :) They had an absolute blast. Here are a few pictures.

How cute are they?

Just like dad. They have to wear all his stuff and be right where he is.

Dad eats up every minute of it.

Doesn't he look like a little old man in this picture?

Lunch at the Train Station

We can't make a trip to Wal-Mart without passing the train section. My oldest is a Thomas the Train fanatic. He knows all of their names (even when I don't). Every week at the library we have to get new Thomas books and movies. Every night at bed we have to read ALL those Thomas books. It's more Thomas fun than I can handle.

Is that bread in front of each train you ask, why yes it is. Big man was supposed to be eating his own lunch and while I wasn't looking, he very graciously shared with each and every one of his trains. It was too cute to pass up the photo op. Isn't he adorable?

Starting Halloween Early

The boys and I started Halloween a little early this year. The Garden Lodge by where we live had a Halloween parade and crafts for the kids. Big man was thrilled to be Woody again this year (had to get my money's worth out of the costume). Little man wasn't quite sure why he was in a padded penguin suit. At least he stayed warm.

They were the cutest ones there :) No offense to any other kids. I'm just a little biased.

Woody and Woody listening to a Halloween story

The highlight of the whole morning-a train ride.

He would've stayed on it for hours.

Our other Woody friend wanted to join in the fun.

I'm getting old

So this week is kind of a crazy one for me-I turn 30. Whenver I heard that people were 30, I used to think that they were SO old. Now that I'm here, I don't feel that old. When I think back to what I was doing 5 years ago, I was engaged (almost married) and going to school for my master's degree. Ten years ago, I was just finishing my bachelor's degree, single and didn't have a clue what to do with my life. It all seems like yesterday. In another blink of an eye I will be looking back on 30 and remembering all the good times I had.

I wouldn't trade where I'm at for anything. I have a loving husband, two beautiful (and sometimes crazy) children, a beautiful home, a great stay-at-home job, and wonderful family and friends. I truly am blessed.

So, 30 here I come. It's going to be a great year.

Potty Training Woes

Did anyone see David Letterman last night? He was talking about potty training his son and I totally related. My almost 3 year old is definitely doing the potty train his own way. He's got the peeing down (for the most part), but refuses to poop on the potty. Any suggestions from you pros out there?

My Baby Turns One

I can't believe that my baby is one. We celebrated his first birthday on September 6th. We had a great time. The morning was spent baking cupcakes, cookies, and a birthday cake. I even tested out my skills at cake decorating. It was fun. It's always an interesting experience letting two rugrats help in the kitchen.

We'd been prepping big brother for weeks telling him that it was not his birthday this time. He still had to help in unwrapping the presents and playing with the toys. He did really well considering. The birthday boy wasn't quite sure what all the fuss was about, but he had a great time with everyone over.

It's been a good year. They grow up so fast, but we've had a great time.

I gave in...

I've been reading other people's blogs for quite a while now, but haven't given in to making my own...until now. I thought this would be a fun way to share news and pictures of our family. I'll do my best to keep my blog updated.