Thompson quattro

Dennis the Menace Park

2011-07-17T12:32:00.000-07:00

Stone is in love with trains like 99% of most little boys

Stone's favorite slide, I love it too...gives your bum a nice little massage : )

Another awesome slide, why dont they make more parks this cool?

Even the water fountains are cool. I think they have similar fountains at the Hogle Zoo.

Posing with Dennis

So glad I was able to take my boys here. Hopefully it will not be the last time.

Monterey Bay Aquarium with Jaden

2011-07-14T17:03:00.000-07:00

Stone absolutely loves his cousin Jaden. This year was the first year they really could play and talk and understand eachother. We had a sleepover and quite a few playdates with him while we were visiting California. Its such a shame we can't get these two boys together more often. Becky was able to get us all in for free which was an added bonus : ) Yeah for friends with hook-ups. Such a beautiful day in Monterey one of my favorite little beach towns ever.

A lazy dat at Grandma and Grandpa Sowards

2011-07-14T16:52:00.000-07:00

Merrick gets more and more unhappy as these pictures progress ha
Stone gets more and more interested in his belly button as the pictures progress.

M almost three months

Seeing old friends and meeting some new ones

2011-07-13T20:36:00.000-07:00

I got to meet and hold this adorable bundle Liam and see Christine very briefly. Doesn't he have the best nose, it reminds me of the Who's from Dr. Suess. How can you not love that sweet face.

Christine looks amazing after just having her baby. Wish I could say the same, oh well. Merrick is sporting his high waters ha. He is about two months older but he looks like a giant compared to L

Mrs. Pedrotti my next door neighbor meeting Merrick. I used to walk to her house and visit with her and play with her 5 cats (I used to be an animal person I guess : ) when I was a little kid. She loves kids and always wanted more but she was only able to adopt one back in the day. Such a neat lady. I will miss seeing her familiar face.

Bille was so nice to drive from S.F. and hang out and go on a walk one afternoon. I met her adorable daughter Nico for the first time, and fell in love.

Happy Hollow

2011-07-13T20:27:00.000-07:00

Stone went on every ride at Happy Hollow. The only ride that I remember was the dragon ride, so glad it was still there.

Stone loved feeding the goats, even let out a few( with help of another kid) and my dad had to corral them in. lol

Anything car related Stone wants to be a part of it.

Quality time with Grandpa. My mom was so nice to watch Merrick so I could just focus on Stone. Luckily we went when we did with all the rain we had. It was such a fun day.

2011-07-13T20:21:00.000-07:00

Family dinner at B.G. and Tiff's, Unfortunately I didn't take too many pics and the ones I did were fuzzy. My cute momma, Brandon and Merrick.

Reef, Beau, and Stone. It was so fun to see how fast took to his cousins even though he doesn't see them all very often. They are all so good with him and they love the baby too of course.

The only snapshot I got with Me and the busy bride. I wish I got a full pic of her dress it was so pretty.

2011-07-13T19:48:00.000-07:00

There has been alot of changes since my last post: a move to Round Rock, TX which is about 25 minutes north of downtown Austin, new job for Spence, new ward, new friends, two growing boys and a whole lot more. I will do my best to catch you all up to speed : ) Less than a week after my last post I went out to California to see one of my best friends Heather Howard get married in Soquel, CA. Spence drove out even though he could literally only stay two days but we were ready for a road trip and I knew I could not make a twelve hour drive with an infant and toddler. The drive went surprisingly well and I enjoyed good tunes and great conversations with my husband. We stayed in Hollister with Jason the first two nights because my parents were showing their house. Stone literally threw up all over Spence right before he was going to get dressed for the wedding and he had a crazy high fever. It can be pretty scary when Stone has fevers because his body does not fight them very well with his condition. We stress dosed him and he just wanted to take a nap with Daddy. So Becky was so awesome to be my date for the wedding. Unfortunately I missed the whole ceremony but was there in time for toasts and reception...better late than never. Heather looked gorgeous and it was so great to see her family. Then on Sunday we had a big family dinner with 4/6 kids and it was such a blast to get together and laugh and see how much my nieces and nephews have grown...that is my heaven being with my family. I wish we could all get together more. It rained about 16/23 days I was there so no beach days for us, although the days I went to Monterey and S.F. it was gorgeous. I got to see some good friends, and I kind of was more of a homebody because my parents sold their house in Almaden while I was staying there. I felt very nostalgic the whole time I was there just so many memories so much growth and love in that house. Just knowing it was the last time in my childhood home was so bittersweet but I know my parents are doing what feels right for them just like they tell us we need to do whats right for our family. Anyhow here are some pics from California.

Brothers

2011-03-07T22:17:00.000-08:00

I love this little face he just keeps getting cuter and bigger everyday.
At his two month check up he was 11lbs 7 oz and 23.5 inches. He is already grown out of most of his 0-3 month jammies. He is such a happy, pleasant baby and is smiling all the time. He has made the cutest baby noises from day one, he is quite talkative for a little guy, and he can also be very serious. He is a total porker and will sometimes be gnawing on his fist 30 minutes after I have fed him. He has only spit up once or twice which is amazing. Stone spit up all the time and still has a way sensitive gag reflex. Stone will laugh so hard he throws up sometimes. Merrick still wakes up 2-3 times a night but I am feeling a little less of a zombie lately...I am getting used to toting around two boys and just loving having a bigger family now.

Merrick also rolled over from tummy to back at 5 weeks. He does it almost once or twice a day but has learned if he is not wanting to roller over he just lays his head to the side and rests. He never cries during tummy time just a few grunts :) He definitely does not spend as much time o his stomach as Stone, since everytime I put M on the floor Stone thinks it is fun to try to jump over him. Other than almost jumping on Merricks head Stone is an excellent big brother and is actually very gentle with him which is surprising for my little ruffian.

My big boy I can't believe he will be 3 in less than a month. He is talking up a storm, and has quite the attitude these days. Fun, fun, fun. If I ask him to do something he will say, "I'm busy mom." or "Just a minute." He says the word Stupid way too many times a day and trust me we have tried everything...He even likes the taste of hot sauce. This boy is as fun-loving, and cuddly as it gets but he is sooo stubborn. I can tell already he is a tricky one to discipline. He cracks me up everyday and there is never a quiet or dull moment with him around. I love this boy and hope him and Merrick are best friends someday.

Merrick working and Stone relaxing

Merrick's Blessing-February 20, 2011

2011-03-07T21:44:00.000-08:00

This handsome little guy is already for church. Stone wore the same outfit for his blessing when he was 3.5 weeks old, and Merrick was 2 months at his blessing. I was so worried that Merrick would not fit in the outfit especially the shoes but it all worked out, phew.

Don't you love his spooked look? He makes this face all the time it cracks me up. I just had to try the matching hat/bonnet on him just for fun. He didn't wear it during the blessing and he kicked off one of his shoes right when I handed Spence the baby to bless him, so he was chilling up there with one shoe off and one shoe on, ha , oh well..so not important to what was really going on at the time.

We tried to get a few snapshots of the fam at the luncheon, but obviously it was not very successful. Stone was ticked we made him stop playing with his cousins for a minute to take a few pics. I can never seem to keep my eyes open and this was about the only time all day that Merrick was actually awake. I wish we had taken more pictures throughout the whole day and more pics of all our family there but we didn't. Okay lets be honest I was too busy eating and relaxing :) I really need to get better at documenting these important events.

The best one we got!!!

Jaden and Stone really took to eachother on this visit. Jaden is about 15 month older than Stone and now that Stone speaks very well they seriously were having the best time together it was so cute. One minute they were playing guns and the next minute I see them like this holding hands, adorable. Stone is such my shorty I love it... I also love their cheesy grins and animated eyebrows. Yeah for cousins! The food was great we just did four different homemade soups, two salads, my dad's rolls, and Texas sheet cake and banana bars for dessert. So simple and so delicious on a snowy Sabbath day. Oh I won the airhead of the year award...So I sent out invites to mostly family and a few friends and I accidentally switched two of the numbers for the address to the church. So some of our friends who don't go to church busted their butt to get their by 9 a.m. and totally missed the blessing...and two of his cousins who were going to help bless Merrick did not make it in time from Provo area also. I cannot tell you how awful I felt and apologized to them and Spence about a million times. The good thing was that everyone who was able to come eventually showed up. There was a snowstorm that morning so we did not have as many people come as expected but maybe it was a good thing with my address mistake. The funy thing was that the address I gave had almost thesame coordinates to another church building, ha. Only in Utah!!

A little of this and that

2011-03-07T21:19:00.000-08:00

Merrick at 2 months (taken with mycamera phone)

Zach, Aunt Tam and Merrick getting cozy after Merrick's blessing

I love sleeping babies

My Dad loves babies, especially his grandbabies. He held Merrick for hours at a time and of course Merrick was loving that. I hardly used his swing when my parents were here ; )

Cute one of Grandpa and Stone the night before Merricks blessing. Stone LOVED that Grandpa would play swords with him and that he got to beat Grandpa almost everytime. (I don't let him win all the time)

Valentine's Day and a few snap shots

2011-03-04T16:21:00.000-08:00

So for Valentine's Day I got Spence a picture frame that says "The Boys" but I realized I didn't have any decent picture of the boys to put in the frame. Of course I waited until the day off V-Day to take a few pics and they were both not feeling it...plus my memory card was almost full on my phone so for only taking about 10 shots and for my average camera they turned out okay. This top one was the winner with Merricks spastic arm and all, ha. Spence is so sweet and sent red roses, chocolates and lavender bubble bath from 1-800 flowers I think. He is so good to me, even though he knows I think Valentine's Day is way too commercialized.Spence's parents took us all out to Texas Roadhouse for dinner and they watched Stone while we went to a movie. Merrick slept through the whole movie, it was great.

Stone kept screaming too big, he's too big. He did not want to hold or have his brother leaning against him...and poor Merricks head was bobbling everywhere.

Merrick just about to cry. You can really see how different there eye colors are in this pic and their coloring in general. Stone is our mexican and Merrick is our white boy. It is crazy to see how much Merrick looks like Spence when he was a baby. If I had a scanner I would show everyone. We still can't tell if his eyes will be blue or green but Stone already had super dark eyes at M's age.

He totally has Spences mouth it is soo cute.

I took this one with my phone...I just think he looks so cute here. He is about 6-7 weeks in this pic.

Stone and Merrick

2011-03-04T16:14:00.000-08:00

Stone is loving being a big brother. He has been really good with him and very protective. H always says "hold it, hold it" when Merrick makes the tiniest peep. He gets mad sometimes when anyone besides Mom or Dad holds the baby...like full on meltdown.

Merrick at just over two weeks

New Years Eve

2011-03-04T15:57:00.000-08:00

We look so tired! My chapstick looks like a milk mustache ha!
My Aunt and Uncle stopped by for a visit earlier in the day and brought Merrick some gifts. It was so nice to see them. That evening we watched a few movies including the new Nanny McPhee which Stone loved and we thought was pretty cute also.

Merrick snoozin, he had a little eye infection so his eyes are all glossy.

Stone had to wear these pajama bottoms that are way to small with the shirt he was wearing that day. My mom is on the couch. She is a trooper and slept on that couch for almost 3 weeks. We made a bed by putting the two couches together but I am sure she missed her bed at home.

Spencer's mom got the men in the family a balloon animal kit. Spence rocked at it. He started with a dog or "easy" animals and he made me these two lovebirds by the end of the night. See I told you we had a wild New Years!

I just had to throw in a picture of my Mom since we didn't take a whole lot of pictures in general when she was here. I love her so much and I can never thank her enough for all the help she gave us at this time.

My birthday and Christmas 2010

2011-03-04T15:22:00.001-08:00

I brought Merrick home on my 30th birthday and my Mom made a yummy dinner and we had hot razzleberry pie and ice cream. I think we watched Step Up 3 and just kicked it at home. I didn't even take any pictures or anything, I was so exhausted I just didn't care. I was glad to be out of the hospital but a little overwhelmed with it being Christmas and feeling like I "had" to get certain things done at home instead of relax. Thank goodness my Mom was there to help in sooo many ways. I would have been a wreck without her the first two weeks postpartum. Christmas eve we watched a few seasonal movies and let Stone open a present or two so he would not be so overwhelmed in the morning.Christmas was super low key seeing as though I just had a baby.
We opened presents early and then drove to Grandma and Grandpa Thompsons to open more presents and have brunch and a delicous dinner that night. It was very quiet but that is what I needed this year.

This is Stone trying to make a basket. Some of his favorite gifts were a basketball and hoop, tunnel/tent, nerf gun, remote control Lighting McQueen Car, and Buzz Light Year (from G&G Sowards) and prob the biggest hit was a 12 pk of Play-do (lol) We always end up getting him too much, he would so be happy with half of what he got but nonetheless he was LOVING Christmas this year.

Sorry fuzzy shot, did not know how to edit this out.

Opening Buzz!!! He slep with him on Christmas Eve. Not the best toy to sleep with to help calm your child and induce sleep...but he insisted on sleeping with him and pushing the buttons every 5 seconds.

Merrick did alot of this on Christmas day. He got a few gifts too, but he slept most of the day and we let Stone open his gifts. I am sure he will be more interested next year.

2011-03-03T23:34:00.000-08:00

Best Stocking Stuffer ever!!! This is how Spence brought Merrick back to me after they washed him up and did all the heel pricks and all the jazz. I was seriously melting when I saw my baby and almost got teary at how precious he looked in his stocking. The week before Christmas all the babies get handmade stocking and knit caps. The Supervisor lady spends all year making them especially for the Christmas babies. I am going to save his first stocking forever.

What up!

Already flexing his muscles.

Introducing Merrick Ryder Thompson

2011-03-03T23:14:00.000-08:00

So after trying to "naturally" induce labor we decided to get induced on December 21st. My doctor actually asked me the week before if I wanted to get induced but I was trying to wait it out as long as possible. I swear only Christmastime doctors are inducing babies left and right. I could have waited but my mom was already here and Spence was more than anxious (an understatement) and being born at Christmastime I personally preferred being born right before Christmas than the day of or day or two after... I had a few natural contractions that morning anyhow so I think he would have been bron that day or the day after anyhow.
The doc said I had to be on a waiting list and that I probably wouldn't get in, but I had to call at 5:30 a.m. and see what was available. The night before I could not sleep at all adn I sent Spence to work because I didn't think that I would get induced that day. Well Icalled at 5:30 and they said come in as soon as possible. I was so excited but not so excited to drive about 15 minutes away in a horrible snowstorm. Since Spence wasn't there I drove my Mom and Stone with me going about 25 m.p.h on Bangerter hwy. It was a little stressful since the roads were a mess but I felt peaceful we would make it there just fine. I checked in and they started the whole inuction process. My Mom was too nervous to drive home and I personally did not want her to so her and Stone kept me company until Spence came and my mother inlaw gave Mom and Stone a ride home. My nurses were great and my epidural was awesome...Such a smooth and quick labor, even better than my first.

I sent Spence to the cafeteria to grab a quick bite. I did not think I would go from a 7 to a 10 in 20 minutes...ahh. Spence left his cell phone in the room with me so he had to be paged and was running back as fast as he could. A few minutes and 4 0r 5 pushes later we were happy to meet this little guy.

Merrick Ryder Thompson born December 21, 2010 7lbs 10 oz 19.75 inches

He arrived so quickly I almost could not believe it...HAPPY DAY!

The Happy Daddy holding his boy for the first time.

This is the Place for F.H.E.

2011-03-03T23:04:00.001-08:00

We have made it a tradition to go to This is the Place Heritage Park at Christmas Time. There is so much to do that we never have enough time to see everything. Stone loves riding the train/tram...to the "pioneer town". They have bonfires all over to stay toasty but we were ther on a really nice night.

Stone all smiles when he got to see real reindeer

Stone sharing his milk with Prancer, and Prancer wasn't feeling it.

Stone sitting on Father Christmas lap(that's what they called him). He was a great Santa and I was happy Stone didn't cry.

Stone and Spence learning some dance moves in one of the buildings. We also saw a puppet show of the Littlest angel, made ornaments, and reindeer food, and got some hot chocolate. Such a fun night out with the fam.

Early December

2011-03-03T22:54:00.001-08:00

For F.H.E. we made this train and listened to Christmas music. We all had so much fun. Stone had more fun eating the candy off the train than putting it on.

Let the building begin

Ta-da!!! Can barely get this boy to look at the camera anymore :(

I think we should all bake in our underwear, don't you?

Stone and one of his best buddies Sydia at the Zoo in December. It was such a gorgeous day and there was hardly anyone there. I was so happy to feel so great at the end of my pregnancy and get out with Stoney as much as possible.

Thanksgiving

2011-03-03T22:43:00.000-08:00

My lova sneaking a kiss on my "pregnant" cheeks

I made my first turkey this year. I was so nervous about it but it turned out pretty good.

Stone's favorite part of Thanksgiving meal.

Love that face!

Stone chillin with his cousin Abbie later on. He asks to see Abbie all the time it is so cute.

Thanksgiving Time at Temple Square

2011-03-03T22:25:00.000-08:00

My brother Brandons family stayed with us for a few days before Thanksgiving. It was so much fun to have our little place bustling with kids and laughter and some good late night conversations with the "adults". I loved seeing my niece and nephews get so excited about snow, when it is now the norm for me. Of course you have to go to Temple Square if you are visiting SLC so Stone and I tagged along for the day. Stone was pretty good but had it after a couple of hours. He was pretty busy during the Testaments movie and told me it was boring, ha...then luckily he slept through the Joseph Smith movie so I could enjoy that one. It was nice to walk around and see all the Christmas decorations without all the crowds.

Beau my nephew and Stone

Tiff and Cruz

Brandon's family and Stone and I

We were so happy to have them visit, since we don't get to see my side of the family very often.

Halloween

2010-11-02T17:35:00.001-07:00

My little garden gnome. I looked everywhere to find a hat or white beard but found nothing. I didn't want a whole outfit because we alread had the laitterhosen (spell check please) and thought that would be perfect for a gnome. I made his hat and beard for less $1.00. (Good thing that was all because he HATED it. I thought he would be more prone to wear it with elastic holding the hat on, but he basically fought with me and started crying everytime I tried to put it on him. I love 2 year olds! I wish he had gone around trick or treating like this but he went everywhere...

Like this! People thought he was pinocchio or a swiss yodeler. And I walked around carrying his hat/beard. So sad! We went to the Tracy aviary like last year but there was way less activities and candy, so Spence and I were kind of bummed. And it started pouring later so we went trick or treating in the mall. The mall was warm :) and packed and Stone definitely got plenty of candy. Our ward was lame and didn't do a trunk or treat.

I love this one. With a little bribery we got Stone to put on his hat to show Grandma and grandpa T. We thought we would try to trick or treat on actual Halloween night...but my in-laws live in a very L.D.S. neighborhood and there was not one trick or treater in sight. Got to love Utah! G & G were so nice and filled the rest of Stone's plastic pumpkin with lots of chocolate.

We brought this hat along too so he could be a cute little Swiss boy, but this hat did not last very long either.

Halloween

2010-11-02T17:17:00.001-07:00

My ghetto "Cheer Bear" costume. I had fun making it.

Aerial shot of my belly, hah. Now you know why Spence had to draw the rainbow on for me while I was wearing the t-shirt.

Just being silly.

Mom and Stone

Care Bear Stare!

Pumpkin Decorating

2010-11-02T17:06:00.001-07:00

We painted and glitter painted (thanks to Martha) pumpkins instead of carving this year. We thought Stone would have more fun doing this since he is so into painting lately and I don't exactly trust him with a knife. He is so independent he won't let you help him with most things. I painted a generic jack olantern face and Stone did the rest.

Stone with his long hair...His Dad freaks out when I give the slightest mention of a haircut. I don't want to cut out his curls but just shape it up...Can you believe I use detangler spray on my little boy. I am definitely going to trim it before he meets his new brother :)

Painting away!

Glittering pumpkins on a different night.

Dad getting in on the glitter action. They turned out pretty nice and you can use for decorations for Thanksgiving also.

2010-11-02T16:50:00.000-07:00

Stone is in love with his soccer ball these days, not so much into smiling for the camera. He runs all over the backyard and front yard and I play defense as best I can with my big belly. He can even drop kick the ball pretty far. We can't wait to put him in a little soccer team next fall.

Stone doing some push ups, okay maybe he's just rolling around.

I never take belly shots because #1 my belly is so much bigger than with Stone and #2 I so desperately need to dye and shape my hair. I am trying to grown my hair out and its at the ugly inbetween stage. I know if I get it cut they will cut too much off, so it is what it is. Don't mind the crazy clutter mess in the kitchen. Trying to rush out the door to church.

Stone is always so excited to go to church. He yells out Lets go Mom and Dad, CHURCH, CHURCH. I hope he stays that excited forever ; )

Children's Discovery Museum

2010-11-02T16:41:00.000-07:00

Stone working the crane.

Gathering building blocks. He likes to jump from where the crane is at the top too.

Stone and his pal Sydia playing in the water.

My friend Natalie has a museum pass and so we get to go with her every once in a while for free:) (So nice of her) It is so fun to see the kids play and explore.

Thanksgiving Point-Cornbelly's

2010-11-02T16:28:00.000-07:00

Stone playing with the jack-o-lantern tetherball. (Tetherball didn't make the cut)

Jumping on the cool trampoline thing.

On the race-cars with dad.

Rolling some big ol corn on the cobs around.

Stone showing off his mad climbing skills. My camera died after this and Spence took a few on his phone. He loved the tractor pulling the cows, going down the big slide, the duck race, and bounce house. We had such a fun day and topped it off with a pumpkin cupcake and apple beer, yummy. Where were places like this when I was little.

Our visit to Caldwell, Idaho

2010-11-02T16:07:00.000-07:00

Stone and his cousin Haley. Stone not wanting to be hugged so much. We went to visit my sister Stacey and her family towards the end of September. My parents were there also. We went to a fun place where the kids could play games, do go-carts, miniature golf and bumper boats. Stone was less than an inch to short for the bumper boats and they still would not let him go. He was soo sad. But he won lots of tickets and prizes, doing surprisingly well on the games. We went to a buffet for dinner. The girls shopped a little, and we just had fun catching up.

Stone was obsessed once again with Haleys pink jeep and her bike with training wheels. I have yet to find Stone a bike around the same size. He has already outgrown his trike and is ready for something a bit more challenging.

My sister had tons of art ideas for the kids. I love Stone's serious face while painting. After we got home to Utah I bought Stone some paints and he asks to paint or use his colors (markers) all the time. He has even left some lovely art work on the walls.

We had a short but fun weekend. It's always great to see family as much as possible. I don't know why I never take more pictures but these were the five I had and they were all of Haley and Stone, hah.

Miscellaneous

2010-11-02T15:47:00.000-07:00

"You can never have enough blue eyeshadow." I have to do my makeup when Stone is sleeping or completely distracted. He freaks out if he can't put on make up too, just eyeshadow(face shadow and chapstick or lipgloss. If this eyeshadow was black he would look like one of the band members from KISS, lol.

Stone's last picture with a bottle sometime early August. I just think this picture is funny because the look on his face is totally grumpy and then he's sporting the Jesus macaroni necklace from nursery (He insisted on keeping his necklace on as long as possible).

A snapshot at the S.L.C. aquarium. I was too busy chasing him to get anymore pictures.

I love finding pictures my husband takes, it cracks me up. I find a lot of self portraits while driving and mug shot poses, hah. I loved his big webbed hand! Thats why he can kick my butt swimming across the pool, but I can still float and tread water better than him : )

We push our sectional couch together because we love to snuggle and put our feet up. My belly growing!!!

Bear Lake- Spence's 33rd Birthday

2010-11-02T15:28:00.000-07:00

We celebrated Spence's 33rd birthday at my aunt and uncles cabin at Bear Lake. We went last year same time so I guess it has become kind of a tradition at least while we live in Utah. I have never been to Bear Lake during busy season so there are some activities that are shut down but it is so nice to relax with hardly anyone around. We stayed for three nights and of course had chocolate covered rasberries and got the hugest pizza called Ol Ephraim...which we snacked on the leftovers for the next two days. Spences parents came for one night to celebrate Spencer's actual b-day, so that was fun.

The weather was warmer than last year, water still freezing as ever. The water is so shallow you can walk out for quite a while. I walked out til about my waist and layed out on a dock. I didn't swim much other than that, pansy I know. Stone loved the beach and getting so dirty in the sand and pulling the wagon, etc.

Dad getting serious about the sand castles. Spence would create something and Stone would destroy it.

Stone diggin

Not the best picture, but just relaxing in the cabin after our huge pizza dinner.

Bear Lake Continued

2010-11-02T15:15:00.000-07:00

At night Stone loved to play with some of the toys at the cabin. My aunt and uncle have about 300 or more laser discs. Any movie you can think of or love they have it. Stone fell in love with Peter Pan. I tried to mix it up with Beauty and the Beast and Jungle Book but he wasn't feeling it.

View of the lake from the front yard

Stone looking like he should be on the 70's show with his brown cords and multicolored thermal, oh yeah and the shaggy hair.

A view of Logan Canyon driving to Bear Lake

Camping on Labor Day weekend-Boys Only

2010-11-02T14:46:00.000-07:00

An excited little guy off to camping adventure with Dad, Grandpa Thompson and cousin Zach.

Stone hoarding Rocks!

Stone and Granpa T. They camped in this pretty spot about 30 minutes north of my in-laws. They were the only campers in the particular spot which was pretty lucky for Labor day weekend.

There were way more pictures of everyone hiking and animals they saw but I figure those would not be as interesting if you were not there at the time.

The guys hiked to this peak and Stone needed very little help from Dad is what I was told. What a pretty view.

John Mayer/Owl City Concert

2010-11-02T14:30:00.000-07:00

Stone was in heaven running around the grass. Luckily I never had to chase him much with the help of Spence and my niece and nephew. He was dancing around to the music and later in the evening he toally interrupted a couples makeout session. They just laughed, which I was glad about...I thought it was pretty funny too.

Before the concert got started.

Making the trek to the amphitheater

Happy Boy!

Happy parents. Spence is smiling on the inside :)
Tam (Spencer's sister invited us to go to this concert with her and her kids. I have not been to a real concert in a long time, so I had so much fun...Except for the fact that it was really chilly that night and being pregnant having to walk a million miles to a bathroom about 3 different times...It was all worth it though. We left the concert a little early to beat some traffic (Spencer's idea, we are getting so old)

Thompson Family Reunion

2010-11-02T11:57:00.000-07:00

It started puring rain and we had a tiny pavilion to hover under. The weather didn't damper any spirits...We did a mock campfire..songs, and stories, etc in one of the cabins.

I am a dork and made Spence and Stone do a little pose for these two shots. They just looked so cute in their similar hats.

Stone on a nature hike with dad. He collected rocks and a few feathers. This boy could play outside alllll day. Although he does love his movies like his dad.

Heber City

2010-08-25T15:09:00.001-07:00

We stopped in cute little Heber on the way to the Thompson family reunion.

A crazy steep slide for a two year old

At Dairy Keen in Heber. They have a little train that goes around the restaurant.

A train/picnic tables outside. Stone in heavem of course. He ate his first whole corn dog here. I was amazed, he usually does not eat that much in one sitting.

Lovin his tootsie pop as we stroll down the main drag.

Funny sayings

2010-08-25T14:52:00.001-07:00

I couldn't fit this one in my last post. I love his smile! I just wanted to remember some of the funny things Stone says at this age (28 months).

1) He calls me Honey, more than he calls me Mommy.

2) He says, "Eww, that is nasty." if someone burbs or toots, including himself.

3) He will say, "Excuse me, bless you, thank you, or sorry" before Spence and I even get a chance and should be the first one saying it. He beats us to the punch (which I am glad about). Spence and I want to raise kids with very good manners, because alot of kids don't seem to have them anymore.

4) He has my bad habit of being overly apologetic. He uses the word sorry, when it's not even necessary. For example he was kicking his ball across the grass in the backyard and he trips over the ball and falls down, and says, "Sorry, pauses a second and says, it's okay"

5) He points to bums and yells, "Poop". He did this very loudly in line at wal-mart to a lady about 2 feet in front of us. Luckily she did not turn around. We are working on that it's a bum, but it's not quite sinking in yet.

6) He calls spoons, "Soup".

7) He has a little lisp with certain words, especially when he says, "Yes" He also makes a lot of words plural like, "Love you Dads", "I wants to eats". You get the idea.

8) When he attempts to whisper he sounds like the Godfather. I can't help but laugh. I know there are more and more funny things everyday but this is all I can remember for now.

Snapshots of the average day to day

2010-08-25T14:39:00.000-07:00

I'm in love with his eyebrows! He is one of the most facially expressive kids I have ever seen. You know exactly how he feels 95% of the time without him even saying a word.

This is just a funny picture with him close up and me and my belly in the background...and my face looks abnormally skinny...in not a good way.

This is typically what out living room floor looks like, maybe usually even worse, lets be honest here.

My little guy is starting to look so grown up. I hope his chubbo cheeks stay forever!

My little Indian!! ha He is rollin in just his diaper every chance he gets. If Dad takes of his shirt Stone has to take his shirt off too.

Rollin with my homies

2010-08-25T14:04:00.000-07:00

This cruiser has been in Spence's family since before he learned to drive, and it still runs surprisingly well for a 1985. Spence picked up a second job about 6 weeks ago and installs and removes/fixes for sale signs for all the real estate agents in the SLC area. He has been working mad hours like 50-60 a week including his other job. Unfortunately he has to do alot of driving and sometimes we don't see him until 9:00 at night. So once a week or so Stone and I pile into the cruiser and ride along with him to the different towns and just hang out with him while he works. Its actually nice because we can just enjoy eachother and make Spences day a little less long and boring if we are there with him. These are just a few pics from a typical day on the job with the hubster.

Don't mind my stink eye! The a.c. sucks so we always have all the windows down and my hair is flying everywhere.

Stone and Dad! Notice my two year old with a bottle in this picture? I have finally set my mind to help Stone get rid of his milk in a bottle addiction. About time, right? I have just been super lazy about it and have not wanted to deal with the tantrums but with another baby on the way and being almost 2 1/2 time to buckle down. He has been drinking from cups and sippy cups since before 1 but he has to have his milk in a bottle or he F-L-I-P-S out. He also likes to nap with Dad on our bed and or sleep between us every chance he gets...I am so dead asleep sometimes I don't even notice he is there. So we started being hardcore about that this week too. Stay in your own bed bud!!! I know we have created this mess, but like they say your first kid is the guinea pig. I will know what not to do with our next little guy. He is such a cool, easy going kid I guess if these are our main struggles with him thats okay. So far so good !!! Gotta remind myself to stay consistent with the tough love!

Summer fun

2010-08-23T15:29:00.000-07:00

We have passes to Lagoon and have been about 5-6 times so far this summer. Stone loves to get on every ride he can, and is very upset when he is too short for others. It is so fun to just see his face light up every time we turn into the Lagoon parking lot. We have spent alot of late afternoon/evenings there because it is cooler and we are wiped out after 3-4 hours.

Here he is on Puff the Dragon with Dad and Cousin Zach. The rest of our lagoon pictures aren't very closeup but you get the idea. He loves the place and it gives us something fun to do.

My little dalmatian! Stone could play for hours in Grandma and Grandpa Thompson's backyard. They have two ponds and he just throws rocks forever, feeds the fish and loves to scoop up whatever with the net.

I love this expression

Stone and Dad with the manual lawnmower. Gotta start them young on the chores...good thing Stone likes to help out for now. We will see how long that lasts.

We have also swam soooo much this summer but I never remember to bring my camera or I am doing a few swim lessons. Stone was doing so well the beginning of the summer and then he recently fell in and that scared him pretty bad. I hope he can enjoy it again soon. I am not giving up.

Miscellaneous late June and July

2010-08-23T15:08:00.000-07:00

Stone's owie...This was taken the day after, so it looks a little better than it dead, he had a rockin goose egg above his right eye too...he always is hitting his head in that same spot, poor guy. He climbed in our neighbors doggie door to play with their dog (unbeknownst too me)and then came climbing out only to topple down face first down about 5 steep cement steps. And I was inside the whole time, what an awesome mom I am.

Stone at Huntington Beach with some of our friends. We were in the "O.C." for a quick weekend trip to attend Jason and Brittany's wedding. We missed their sealing in the Newport Beach temple but made it in time for the ring ceremony and reception on the yaught (sp?) in Newport Harbor. I was feeing too tired from our drive to dance but the company was great, the appetizers were yummy, and the ambience was amazing. Such a great wedding idea!!! I did not want to carry my purse all night so I did not get any pics...And my husband was looking very smooth and yummy that night too. We have a few tagged photos on face book but thats it. Amber and Tad so generously let us stay with them and we swam and our kids played and we went to the beach. A very funfilled 48hours.

Stone sporting his cute little tan at the Children's Discvoery Museum in SLC. My friend Natalie has a pass so we get to go for free with her sometimes. It is alot of fun.

Stone and I boating

My only pic from the 4th of July (actually it was the 2nd) bike parade in Centerville. Stone rode with his cousins Zach and Abbie...he ended up being dead last because he would not let me or anyone else help him. Mr. Independent!!! I had an usher trying to usher him (us) along and the cop car as you can tell was right behind us...no pressure lol. We saw fireworks that night and watched a parade the next morning and swam. Fun times!

My newest little nephew Cruz Thayer Sowards

2010-08-23T15:02:00.001-07:00

Born on June 22, 2010 little Cruz was not so little at 9"10 oz. Correct me if I'm wrong Tiff. To me he looks like a great mix of Beau and Reef. He is such a sweet little guy and I can't wait to see him again. I am really excited for our baby to only be 6 months younger too.

Tiff, B.G., Cruz and Beau. I wish I got an entire family shot with Reef and Mercedes too. I miss you guys!

Seeing friends and family

2010-08-23T14:52:00.001-07:00

Beau looking all grown up...right before we went boating

Justin tubing with Hailey, Peyton, and Caleah. I painfully had too watch since I am prego. I have not wakeboarded/boated for almost 4 years. Next year it is so on!

Reef and Brock looking so cute.

The superheroes Jaden and Hailey.

After Aimee's wedding I visited Heather at her cute place in Scott's Valley. We got burritos and had a little picnic on the rocks at 38th street in Santa Cruz. I sure miss that place and my amazing friends there too. Of course I did not take as many pictures as I should have, I am the worst at busting out the camera.

Wedding Season

2010-08-23T14:41:00.000-07:00

The beautiful bride Aimee and the handsome groom Kong.
They had on of the most beautiful wedding settings I have ever seen at Nestldown in the Los Gatos mountains. It was seriously a fairytale wedding! It's so nice to see two people sooo in love.

Some of my best girl friends from jr.high and high school. I love these girls. I don't see them very often but it is so fun when I do. They are each so beautiful inside and out and so accomplished.
L-R Kirin, Lindsey, Jen and moi

My capture could not capture the beauty of this place and how green and lovely it was.

Aimee walked down crazy steep dirt/wooden stairs...I almost fell coming down luckily not toomany people noticed. She walked down with much more grace and she had her fathers arm to hold on to. Come on Spence where were you when I needed you. Oh, yeah I left him and Stone at home while I went to this wedding and visited friends, and all my siblings were in town.

Miscellaneous May-Early June

2010-08-23T14:28:00.000-07:00

This is pure comfort. He falls asleep like this sometimes. I am jealous I have never been able to sleep well on my back.

Stone loves his bath time. He would take 2-3 baths a day if I let him. He loves taking a bath with dad...which kind of makes me laugh because our tub is not that big, so a ton of water always splashes out.

Stone and his crazy eyebrows! We got him this little skateboard at D.I. for $2 he loves it. He is so into X-games which I am soo happy about. He would literally sit for about an hour and watch skateboarding or dirtbiking during the x-games this year. He is juist in awww and kept saying over and over, "cool", "wow", and when I would leave the t.v. for a seond he's like, "mom look, or mom watch". It cracked me up.

His classic I am in trouble look or the look after he falls and is embarrassed/mad that attention is being drawn to him at that time...

How can you not love that face?

Stone's #2 Birthday Party April 10, 2010

2010-08-23T14:08:00.000-07:00

We played simple games like ring around the rosies, freeze dance, pin the wheel on the car, and a pinata. He had alot of fun. He jumped on the trampoline with his a few second cousins once the party died down.

Stone loves strawberries so I a made him strawberry cake. I know it's pink but my little boy doesn't care about those things yet. And I misplaced my muffin tin hence the odd shaped cupcakes but they still tasted good anyhow.

Waiting for the candy to drop from the belly of Lightning McQueen

Stones new tricycle and helmet for his real birthday on April 8th. We took him out to pizza and insisted wearing his helmet all through dinner. He looked so adorable.

We are having a BOY!

2010-08-03T12:15:00.000-07:00

I went to the doctor yesterday and we found out we are having a boy. We are very excited. I am so happy for Stone to have a brother fairly close in age. I really hope they enjoy eachother like my brothers did and still do. It is also somewhat of a relief because there are more complications with girls with C.A.H. than boys. We decided not to do the amniocentesis and just wait for the PKU results when the baby is born. So we can rest alot easier for now. We also have all the boy clothes, toys, etc...so financially that is very nice for us. Of course someday a girl would be nice but I think for now two boys is just what our family needs. We are still due on Christmas Eve. I was born on the 23rd so for his sake and my big pregnant self I hope he is born before Christmas :) Coming soon my pictures from Easter to the present.

Easter 2010

2010-07-23T14:08:00.000-07:00

Whhops the last post I put March 2009, whoops. I was taking all the shots Easter morning, but these two were my favorites. Stone and his Dad just keep looking more and more alike. We had out hunt inside at G&G Thompson's because their was a thin blanket of snow onthe ground Easter morning, yuck! Stone loved decorating eggs. I think his favorite was the chocolate, the hot wheels and big bubble wand in his basket.

Adventures in Babysitting in Austin-March 2009

2010-07-23T13:53:00.000-07:00

The beginning of March Justin and Janae flew me out to Austin to watch their four kids while they celebrated a be-lated 10th anniversary on a cruise. I was so stoked to be in a new place and out of the Utah cold. I had so much fun with the kids but a new found respect for single moms everywhere. I can never complain about one kid ever. Five kids under five is crazy, but it also can be way fun too. Luckily my brother flew Spence in for the weekend to help me out and also to show us Austin. Justin is always wanting us to move their and after being there I would seriously love to live there also. The town has such a cool artsy, hippy kind of vibe and I obviously think the music scene there is great. There is sooo much to do for families and I know the summer humidity sucks but I would take that over cold and snow anyday. I know we will be around Utah for probably at least another couple years unless other opportunities arise. I wish we could have seen Justin and Janae longer but the short time I did see them we cruised downtoww without kids, ate at the BBQ joint the Salt Lick and went to check out Lake Travis after their cruise. I only downloaded a few pics of the trip:Stone came upon Peyton's princess heels and had to give them a try. It was so classic to see him try to walk in heels. Him and Brock even wanted their toe nails painted when I was painting the girls nails. We used some more manly colors for them. Ever since that trip Stone loves to get his toe nails painted. I guess Spence is okay with it for now, he just said stay away from the pink...I did pink once and bought some orange, blue, green, etc after that.

Stone ready for some X-games. Justin has a cool little half pipe in the backyard..the kids love climbing up and sliding down it. Stone loves knee-pads, helmets, etc...I am so glad because this kid has ZERO fear.

2010-07-23T13:29:00.000-07:00

Stone on his cousins big girl bike with training wheels and Dora helmet.

Stone is not scared of slides so this pic is hilarious.There are so many great parks everywhere in Austin even for those kiddos tired of shopping with their mommies...even parks in the strip malls, great idea. Watching five under five at the park and taking them to ice cream alone was no easy task, but I am glad we went anyway. I go crazy in a house all day.

At Zilker Park....in Austin....Amazing, they call it their version of central park. It is about half the acreage of New York's central park and obviously Austin is much less populated. They have people on the lake, kayaking, paddle boarding, there is an area to swim. They have a great park and train ride. If I lived here I would seriously go with my family there all the time.

The triplets on the train Aubrey, Brock and Caleah. I can't believe they start kindergarten in the fall.

We're baaaaaaaaack continued

2010-07-23T13:12:00.001-07:00

Spence and I at a friends wedding in Vegas last November. I forgot to put in first post. This is a rare shot of just the two if us. We left Stone for the weekend with G&G thompson and stayed at the Tahiti Village for a screamin deal. The pool and spa were open for 24 hours so that was fun. We had fun at the wedding and I was loving the dancing. I stopped by the LV swap meet which I love and Spence and I accidentally came upon Wanderlei Silva's M.M.A. gym and we got to meet Wanderlei, who was sooo nice and surprisingly much smaller in person. So nice to get away with the hubster but I missed Stone after two days.

Our Karate kid, My brother Jason got this for me years ago on his mission I think. Stone seriously wants to "play fight" wrestle 24/7. Spence is definitely his dad.

Stone loves to help me bake, cook, unload the dishwasher, sweep, such a great li'l helper. He loves to get into the flour and especially loves salt. His body naturally loses a lot of salt so he literally climbs up to get the salt shaker at our house at G'ma's at restaurants...it is pretty funny.

Stone and I before a gymnastics meet at the U. We went with another couple it was so fun and Utah has an awesome team. Stone kept saying wow and cool at their moves.

This is a Sowards family tradition. An eskimo lady made my dad this coat for his future babies on his mission in Alaska in the early 60's. Everyone of his kids and grandkids have a picture in this coat. Stone looked so adorable but he was not so happy in it.

We're baaaaaack!

2010-07-23T12:40:00.000-07:00

On the "train" at the This is the Place monument. We got to see real reindeer and walk around the mock pioneer town, see a live Nativity (live RATS included)...disgusting and drink some hot cocoa by the firepit. It was both Stone's and my first time there. I think it would be a fun tradition.

Our little trooper on Christmas Day! at Primary Childrens Medical Center. This is Stone on the mend from Kawasaki disease (totally un-related to C.A.H.) We were in the hospital basically the last three weekends of December...they kept sending us home with different diagnosis and Stone would seem well for a few days then backslide again. The last time we went we said we are not leaving until you figure out what he has...so by that point all the symptoms of Kawasaki were manifest. He had to get a heart echo because your arteries and surrounding areas get inflemed and can have a heart attack. He was on baby aspirin for a month after. So CRAZY! Once they did figure out what he had, he got an infusion of antibodies and was a whole new little boy. Yeah for modern medicine! Santa came to visit all the kids and gave them pre-made ginger bread houses, home-made blankets and a stuffed animal. They also gave the parents a free Christmas dinner from the cafeteria which actually wasn't so bad. Everyone was so wonderful there and made being there on Christmas not so bad. We celebrated our "real" Christmas on the 29th and had soo much fun with Spence's side of the family.

The only birthday shot we got for my 29th. I went to Princess and the Frog with the ladies in the fam and went to the Dodo for dinner with Aaron and Fitriah (Spence's bf growing up and his wife). When we got back Stone was still not well so about 10 p.m. we were off to the E.R. again and there to stay until December 27th...we were sure glad he was our only kid and he is still young so he didn't know it was Christmas.

Stone hanging out with some of his cousins after the Thanksgiving feast.

L-R Reef, Jaden, Mercedes and Stone

Some of my best girlfriends growing up. We were able to see Heather and Valentino be sealed in the Oakland temple a couple days before thanksgiving. It was so great to see her so happy and to see so many awesome friends and their kids. We did alot of park days!

So I quit my job at the Utah Alcoholism Foundation/House of Hope in November...and that is where I did my blogs from since it was a graveshift job. I was too lazy to go do it at my husbands warehouse and we finally have had internet the past six weeks so no more excuses. We are back on the blogging circuit and here to stay. I am way too overwhelmed to add a ton of commentary and pics from the last almost nine months, but I will give some high-lights so I can catch everyone (the two or three people) who read our blog, up to speed. Backwards post again. oops

Halloween 2009

2009-11-07T03:51:00.000-08:00

Stone loved Halloween this year and he loved his costume. We have been watching Pete's Dragon alot lately, too. Everyone is watching Pixar and the Thompson's are stuck in the 70's j.k. I was so born in the wrong time, I know.

Stone barely stood still long enough to get bird tracks painted on his face.

On the go, as always.

After the aviary we went trick or treating near my in laws. I think Spence has more fun then Stone. We probably went to 25 houses which is alot for an 18 month old. He insisted on carrying his heavy pumpkin bucket most of the way also. We visited my inlaws neighbors who have the most decked out Halloween house I have ever seen. Stone loved it. We finished off the night with Grandpa Thompson's grilled cheese and homemade fries. This was such a fun Halloween.

2009-11-07T03:35:00.000-08:00

My little trick or treater

Our crazy little family

I actually added a black slip to my costume or else it would have been a definite southern exposure. This was seriously one of the most modest costumes I could find. Do you love my boots? I am pretty sure a geisha didn't wear boots but I was going for comfort and warmth.

There were Halloween festivities at the Tracy Aviary (within Liberty Park), so we had fun looking at cool birds, trick or treating a little, getting face painted and story and music time. We went towards the end of the event so it was not crowded at all. So much fun and gorgeous fall weather.

2009-11-07T03:26:00.000-08:00

I love the zombie in the background. There was a bunch of zombies standing around before and after the "Scary" musical production. Stone was laughing at them nervously, so funny. (I forgot to wear my sash that night.

A geisha samurai kiss

Waiting for the show to begin.

First Snow October 27th

2009-11-07T03:07:00.000-08:00

This is exactly how I felt when it started snowing in October, noooo. Where is my shorts and flip flop weather? I wanted Stone to experience this new weather so after about twenty minutes getting him bundled (slight exaggeration), he poops his pants, I curse under my breath j.k. , I rebundle him than finally go outside. He was not loving the white stuff like I thought he would. When he tripped a couple times he just laid there and rolled around like Randy from the Christmas Story (no joke), he was mad, and mad that his hands were so cold, so it hurts more when he falls now...poor kid. I seriously don't know how women raise multiple children in a 4 season state and actually get them out the door on time in the winter. It took me more time to get Stone bundled than we actually spent outside, how sad. I am def not excited for winter especially with such a BUSY outdoorsy boy.

His only smile when he saw his friend Sydia outside. Our backyard got a couple inches this was just the beginning.

Sydia and Stone snuggling up with the bear after taking off their snow gear.

FHE Bonfire in Millcreek Canyon

2009-11-07T02:53:00.000-08:00

So these pictures aren't actually at the bonfire except the one with Stone in his beanie. We had a bonfire with Spence's whole family and it got really dark, so pics didn't turn out the best. We roasted hot dogs and had hot cocoa and smores and sang songs, you know a classic family bonfire. Spence broke his glasses playing basketball so for a week or two he would wear his prescription sunglasses even at night...or watching t.v. at home and it just made me crack up. Spence got sick of me singin, "I wear my sunglasses at night", but I couldn't help myself.

I wish he would keep hi beanies on longer cause he looks so cute in them.

My little eskimo

Chuck E Cheese

2009-11-07T02:41:00.000-08:00

I love his concerned look

Stone and his buddy Sydia

The horses were his favorite. This was my first time taking Stone to the Chuck, and he had fun but I was a bit disappointed. Why was I disappointed you ask because I remember the days of the stinky ballpit where you could almost suffocate or sit on someone you didn't know was under you, or the kid next to you could have peed his pants but you would never know because you were having too much fun in that germ infested ball pit. Stone you will never know what you are missing... but I will, tear.

Wheeler Farm

2009-11-07T02:30:00.001-08:00

Spence but skull light sabers for Stone and himself to swordfight. We caught Stone more than once shoving his sword in his mouth, it was funny, but not very sanitary, oh well.

I love this pic with their shadows.

Lookin at the geese.

This is a very grainy pic but it really captures Stone's excited look.

Stone could have chased the geese all day if we would let him. I would be scared of the geese if I was his size.

Wheeler Farm continued

2009-11-07T02:14:00.000-08:00

Inside the treehouse at Wheeler farm. One of my new favorite pics of Stone.

He's such a happy kid

My mischieveous little guy!
Wheeler farm is so fun. After chasing geese, playing in the tree house, we went on a tractor ride through the woods, saw farm animals, and a cow milking session. We had hot cocoa by a firepit, went through a tiny cornmaze and picked out pumpkins all for $14 (pumpkins included). The grounds are free to go on at anytime, but I definitely want to make this a family tradition, (as long as we are in Utah, at least)

Celebrating at Bear Lake

2009-11-07T00:31:00.000-08:00

So my Aunt and Uncle have a house at Bear Lake and they so generously let family stay for free. Spence has Wednesdays off and I work on the weekend so we decided to go for a short overnighter, the day after his b-day. This was our first true night alone without the baby. And yes at times I admit we wished Stone was there the other 95% it was sooo good to just enjoy eachother. Since it was after Labor Day Bear Lake was dead, a bit eerie almost but we loved it. It is so beautiful and peaceful. Hopefully next year we can stay longer because 24 hours was definitely not enough.

I love A-frames. Somehow a bat flew in the masterbedroom while we were getting out of the shower. I was freaked out and I told Spence to go open the sliding glass door so it would fly out...The bat started swooping down on Spence and he was dodging it up and down buck naked, it was so classic. I never see the guy get scared so it was really funny. And of course since he was naked it made it funnier. It looked like a scene from a comedy movie. He got kind of mad at me for about 5 minutes because, I stayed in the bathroom with the door almost closed. I didn't want to be caught naked with a bat in a small bathroom with no way out. So needless to stay the bat spent the night in out big master bedroom and we ended up sleeping in a tiny bedroom.

Our yummy steak dinner. I had crab legs again and fell in love again. Spence has to help me eat them because I get so intimidated with the whole process. Cracking the leg, pulling them apart, discarding this part, eating this part...alot of work, but so worth it!

The living room. Spence was so tickled to find about 200 laser disc movies. We found movies you can't even get at Blockbuster, maybe FYE but not blockbuster. We watched Turner adn Hooch, Navy Seals, some Apocalypse type of Movie and The Lost Boys. (He picked all the movies except Lost Boys) I love seeing the SC Boardwalk in that movie and see the Corey's before they were drugged out has beens. I used to be so in love with Corey Haim. In the morning we walked the beach and collected shells and walked on these old rickety docks. It was so relaxing. They have the best rasberry everything there too so we couldn't leave without rasberry shakes and chocolate covered rasberries.

Happy 32nd Birthday Spence!!!

2009-11-07T00:14:00.000-08:00

September 14th was my hubsters b-day. It was super rainy that day and we just had a very mellow celebration. I bought already rolled out dough from Papa murphy's for $2 each and made pizza's a margheurita and a bbq chicken with salad and a yummy cake. My mother and father in law came over to celebrate.

Spence flicking out the candles.

A rare picture of our happy smiling family

I just wanted to take a snap shot of my hubbies sexy legs. Most guys tend to have skinny legs so I love Spence's big muscular legs. Yum!! I love my husband so much, he makes me smile everyday. He is so much fun to be around and he is such a great dad...and husband of course.

SLC-Hogle Zoo

2009-11-07T00:03:00.000-08:00

I am not a big fan of Zoo's because well I hate to see animals locked up and they always look sad to me. On the other hand they probably are living the life here and will probably survive longer because they are in a zoo. Anyways I will push my feelings aside because I know all kids love animals and it's very educational, blah, blah, blah. I went with two other girls and their kids from our ward. I was surprised at how much Stone loved it. He has barely just been getting into animals.

The main reason we went that day was because their was a brand new baby elephant they showed, it was the cutest thing. Even a non-animal person as myself was gushing over this cute baby and it's momma. We also saw baby giraffe and tigers.

Pumpkin Head

2009-11-06T23:57:00.000-08:00

He's looking so old now, sad!!!

Does anybody remember Steve Martins kid from the movie parenthood who wears a bucket or something on his head and bangs his head against the wall? This picture reminds me of that. I got Stone's trick or treat bucket early and he put it on his head every chance he could get and would just walk around and think he was so funny, which it was to me.

Labor Day Luau at Thanksgiving Point

2009-11-06T23:40:00.000-08:00

Spence had a horrible cold on Labor day so we had to just leave him at home and have fun without him. Hey, the tickets were paid for. This is my niece Abbie, sis in law Tam and my m.i.l. Margot. The food was actually really good for a huge buffet and they had real pineapple not the canned stuff which made me really happy. You never know with a "Utah" luau. Btw I have never seen so many polynesians congregated in one area since BYU-H. Fun!

I spent most of the night chasing Stone and he wanted to roll down the grass every chance he could get. P.S. Picnics not the best way to eat with a 17 month old...food everywhere, and pickin at everybody elses plates, knocking drinks over...a mess.

This boy was my favorite. He owned that stage and was so cute and so confident, I loved it. We had to leave early, but what we saw was great. I did miss the Tahitian dancers though, that is usually my favorite...I love how fast they can shake it.

Stone loving the watermelon rind more than the watermelon.

Catch up-FINALLY

2009-08-30T06:28:00.000-07:00

After months of no pictures I finally am up to date from Stone's birthday in April to the wedding we just went to in Southern California. I had a ton of pics but these are all the highlights. This past month I have not taken one picture. We have been really busy but nothing specifically notable. We are just enjoying summertime as it comes to an end (tear).

Aaron and Fitriah's Wedding

2009-08-30T06:05:00.001-07:00

The couple got married outside the Chart House overlooking the Dana Point harbor. The day was perfect and gorgeous and the water looked so blue. I could see people surfing and it was so hot I wanted to jump in the water, but we had to catch a flight home that day. Luckily the day before I was able to go surfing in Newport Beach with Amber. The waves were perfect size and I was so happy to catch some waves since I hadn't been in two years. I miss living near the ocean so much. We had alot of fun.

Aaron and Fitriah the happy couple. Spence was the best man and has known Aaron since he was in diapers. They are such a fun couple.

Stone reaching for the camera

Aaron and Fitriah's Wedding July 26, 2009

2009-08-30T05:40:00.000-07:00

Whoops sideways. This is McKenna one of Spence's friends kids, she is hilarious, and loved Stone to pieces.

Stone was the hit of the party bustin out some serious moves on the dance floor. This kid was seriously born with some rythymn. He is so fun to watch and is not shy at all. After he got sick of being inside on the dance floor he kept sneaking outside

Spence is on duty towards the end of the reception. I probably ran out side 15 times to try and catch him in my heels. This one time I thought he was with someone else and I look outside on the grass and he is headed toward the edge of the property/cliff and there is a very pregnant woman trying to stop him. I was so embarassed that I didn't have a better eye on him and of all people this poor overheated prego momma was keeping my child from possibly running of the cliff. I was grateful for her and kept a better eye on my child afterward.

Bon Iver Concert and Stone's new accessory

2009-08-30T05:11:00.000-07:00

Here is Stone at the Galivan Outdoor Summer concert series. They have very cool bands to see every Thursday and yummy food and art/craft vendors. To me keeping up with new music is a full time job, so luckily our friend Josh keeps us supplied with new indie artists all the time. Last November he introduced us to Bon Iver, who I immediately fall in love with. (I don't fall in love easily, either:) His music is raw, soulful, and hauntingly beautiful. On this particular night we arrived too late to get a decent spot on the grass. So we ended up listening while we chased this kid around.

Stone taking off through the crowd. I love how tiny he looks here and he just charges on through like nobody's business. By the end of the set we were grateful to not be on the grass because there is no way Stone would have been able to sit still. He made a couple friends and played ball and chase and kicked empty water bottles everywhere. (Spence and I decided maybe next time we'll go to a concert on our own).

Stone's need for independence and walking everywhere by himself has led me to buying one of these. (Our's is a lion though). I never thought I would use a leash/harness for my child but never say never. This product was like a gift from heaven to us. AMAZING...and Stone doesn't seem to mind...so far.

Stone banging on the front door wanting to go outside right when he wakes up. If the front door is open a crack he bolts for the door and tries to get out. He could literally be outside all day rain or shine, which overall I am happy about.

Lagoon

2009-08-30T01:12:00.001-07:00

Stone kept throwin his hat in the air and trying to catch it on his head and this is how it landed once. Of course he won't wear his hat the regular way for mor than 5 seconds.

Bulgy the whale ride...his favorite. I still can't believe he can go on rides by himself he looks so tiny still. He loves rides...so I am happy about that. I am an amusement park junkie...seriously one of my favorite things to do ever.

I like the lighting on this one. The poor kids forehead is jacked between where he got stitches and two weird bug bites.

On the airplanes. I said a little prayer to myself that he wouldn't slip out or jump off the ride because it goes pretty high. He was definitely the youngest one on the ride.

Fourth of July Family Pictures at Vasona Park

2009-08-29T06:27:00.001-07:00

Riding the carousel at Vasona after family pics. He looks thrilled, doesn't he?

Superman and I (without glasses)

Clark Kent and I (with glasses)
Spence looks hot with or without his glasses but I hate the reflective action in the photos...it drives me crazy.

On the train at Vasona. I don't know why my pictures are all mixed up...Anyways after our family pictures we had a yummy barbeque and swam and laughed. I so miss spending time with everyone.

We are family

2009-08-29T06:18:00.000-07:00

My momma and me. Love her!

The ladies in the fam.

Then men in the family

The ones responsible for all the craziness...which I call my family.

All 18 grandchildren

What we have been up to this summer

2009-08-29T05:43:00.000-07:00

Visiting with my friend Kirin at my parent's house.

Drew stayed with us for about 6 weeks this summer. It was alot of fun to have him around. He definitely keeps things lively as if that's hard if you know my husband. Drew and Spence together is quite a sight...I was ready to pass out the ritalin somedays, we settled for energy drinks:) Drew was such a big help with Stone babysitting a few times in a pinch, staying in the car for a minute while I did quick errands and just keeping him entertained. Drew even made us a fabulous dinner one night...quite the talented young man. Eleven going on 21...seriously.

A ghetto picture of my first "Perfume Party display" I need to stain my oil carrier but no one but myself seems to mind. I have had three parties two in Utah and one at my mom's and the response has been pretty good. Those that have tried my perfume oils are hooked. I took a little break July and August and am ready to roll again. I have two parties this week that other people are hosting. Wahoo.

Stone took quite a fall on Sunday morning June 28th. We were late to church and he tripped on his own feet I guess and hit the corner of the wall and split his forehead open. I was pretty scared and was so glad Spence and Drew were there to help calm him while we took him to the E.R. We had to wait about two hours which is ridiculous. He was so hungry and cranky by the time they stitched him up. It took Drew, Spence and I to hold him down to even have the nurse put numbing medication on him. I was sent out of the room when they stitched him up. I walked down the hall and held back the tears as my baby screamed...he was so mad that he was wrapped tightly to the bed to keep him still. We literally ran home for two seconds and grabbed our luggage and Drew, Stone and I headed on a plane to San Jose. Great timing, huh? Stone was really good on the flight...but no swimming for him until the end of the week. He had to watch me in the pool teaching the younger cousins how to swim...poor guy. I know this won't be the last time for stitches with this kid either.

Family night-bonfire at Millcreek Canyon

2009-08-29T05:26:00.000-07:00

Taking a break from the hot springs in Honeyville, Ut. They had 4 different hot tubs including a large pool of varying temperatures...they were all too hot but the pool. It was so relaxing.

Hanging in his diaper and trying to control the remote already

We were invited by my sis -n-law to a privately owned lake. The jetskis were not working but we swam, jumped on the water tramp into the water, pushed Stone on the swing, and the boys 4-wheeled. It was such a great day. I love summer time.

The only con was trying to keep this kid from jumping off the deck. The pro was this swing my only relief from watching him like a hawk, except for when Spence had him too of course:)

Stone loves cheetos, dorotitos...his body craves the salty stuff.

Hanging with Amber and her boys

2009-08-29T01:12:00.000-07:00

Amber and Micah

This ones a little fuzzy but I think it's cute anyways.

I hate this one of me but Amber looks good. My head looks gigantic.

Stone and Micah playing. I couldn't get a good picture of Saxon he was always on the go. Stone had fun playing with the boys and swimming.

Here is cute little Dane ready to swim. He has the cutest dimples ever.

It was so fun to catch up with Amber while we were down in Southern California. She makes it look easy having 3 boys under 2 1/2. Thanks for the fun day.

Continued

2009-08-29T01:06:00.000-07:00

My favorite taco place ever except the local one in Puerto Vallarta

I can't post more than five pics for some reason, arrgh. Computers infuriate me.

Our old stomping grounds San Clemente and Pedro's Tacos

2009-08-29T00:56:00.000-07:00

San Clemente State Beach. Spence and I spent alot of time here when we were dating/engaged.

I think Spence is having as much fun with the toys as Stone

It was not the best beach day, it was way overcast and windy so we only stayed an hour.

Stone loved squishing the seaweed

and eating the sand.

Disneyland continued

2009-08-29T00:36:00.000-07:00

We love Disneyland and miss living close to it, especially now that we have a kiddo. Spence actually worked here one summer when he was 20.

Amber met us at Disneyland until it was nearing naptime. It was so fun to see her and to finally meet her new addition Dane. Thanks Amber for taking our picture on It's a small world. Why didn't we get any of us with our boys?...whoops.

Chillin with the juice box

Disneyland April 29th? 2009

2009-08-29T00:26:00.000-07:00

Me and my little Mickey. Everyone has to have a set of"ears" at some point, right?

He loved the Finding Nemo ride

I love this one of Stone peeking above his dad's hat.

The Pants Post a.k.a. The new chastity belt/lock

2009-08-28T23:59:00.000-07:00

I found this so hilarious I thought it needed it's own post. I came home and found these laying on the bed with the combo lock attached. I asked my husband why there is a lock keeping his pants together and he said because the button popped off. Wow, is all I have to say. Folks he has other jeans but he was so set on wearing his Lucky jeans that he actually locked them around his waist all day. My husband seriously cracks me up.

Grandma Sowards Visit and First pony ride at Thanksgiving Point

2009-08-28T23:43:00.000-07:00

Gettin brave only using one hand. My mom came to visit towards the end of April and we went to Thanksgiving Point one of my favorite places in the area. It is such a fun place for kids and adults and they always have so many activities going on. My mom and I shopped, ate, went to movies, went on walks, etc. We really enjoyed having her although I forgot to snap more pictures of her stay here.

Test run on the big plastic cow. I love his bull-riding arm, he just did that, and now we did not just watch 8 seconds, although I used to have the biggest crush on Luke Perry back in the 90210 days, hah!

Stone hanging on tightly

Stone's pony since his head is cut off in the other pics.

Easter 2009

2009-08-28T23:29:00.000-07:00

Stone and I after church. I was so ready to crash after my grave shift but my sis in law Tam and I made a traditional easter dinner or linner and it was worth taking my nap a bit later:)

Stone's done with his carrot now on to the plastic eggs, yum.

Stone wondering about those stupid ears on his head. I thought they were cute on him though.

During Stone's birthday and for easter we were house sitting/dog sitting for a family in our ward. It was so nice to have so much space to entertain not so nice to have a yippey cockapoo. (I prefer big dogs and the ones who are not allowed inside very often:) All in all it was a mellow easter and it's just so fun to relive all the holidays through and with Stone.

Stone's 1st Birthday April 8, 2008

2009-08-28T23:00:00.000-07:00

Stone opening up some gifts. Sorry about the order of the pics...I still am no good at this blogging business, maybe someday. Here is my attempt to highlight our family's last five months.

The cupcakes I made..it's supposed to be a little beach scene. They were fun to make and tasted yummy. Not the prettiest cupcakes but the kids loved all the candy and junk on top.

A quick family pic...very rare indeed..Stone diving in the frosting already

Gotta love that boy!

And heres his cake for him and the rest of the family/friends. I over baked and prepared too much food as always. If we had my side of the family there too there would probably be no leftovers, that's for sure.

Stone please stop doing this...

2009-08-23T00:21:00.000-07:00

Spence and I have decided we have a bulimic baby on our hands, although I don't think he has a self image problem, he just thinks it's funny. At least once or twice a day, usually while I am driving I hear a weird coughing noise and Stone has two fingers down his throat trying to make himself throw up. I have to reach back and slap his hands down tell him no and he just cracks up. Usually it's just a little spit up...but the worst was about a month ago on our way to the Shakespeare Festival in Cedar City. We were about halfway there and Stone decides to make himself throw up. I cleaned him up while Spence drove and he does it again just because we told him no, and Spence pulled the dad move (well my dad at least) He pulled the car off the highway and gave him a good swat and our kid does not even cry...just gave Spence the look of death for about five minutes and he is back to his happy self. Have any of you had problems with this, or is my kid just "unique"?

p.s. Don't call C.P.S. on us. And yes we do believe in spanking...keepin it old school. We were both spanked and we turned out somewhat normal.

A few pics from the cell phone

2009-07-12T03:03:00.000-07:00

I promise I am not usually this color coordinated with my child. My mom happened to have colored bandaids. It's funny how they have those "natural" or "clear" looking bandaids, but even so you still notice a bandaid on your face, so might as well have fun with it right? So here is my blue bandaid boy. The bandaid did not stay on very much longer after this picture.

This picture is a little fuzzy but I had to get a picture of Stone and his cousin Jayden in the rare moment that they were sitting somewhat still. I hope these two become close someday. They hugged eachother one minute than wear playing tug of war the next minute with cousin Hailey's pink baby stroller. You can't tell in this picture but Jayden has a reddish hue to his hair and hazel eyes...adorable. Stone with something in his mouth as usual. The boy already has 11 teeth and has hardly complained in the whole teething process. (Lucky me).

Stone chilling in his first hammock at our friends house. Pina Colada's anyone?

Return from a three month hiatus

2009-05-30T05:58:00.000-07:00

I would love to say that our family has been on a three month vacation but really we have not had internet and the past 3 weeks we sent our laptop to get fixed and it turned out to be unfixable.

Hopefully we will have internet up and running by next week. I am posting this from work. I don't know if I ever posted that but I started working at a place called House of Hope in S.L.C. House of Hope is a government funded program for women overcoming drug/alcohol addiction. There are four houses in downtown area near the U and the Avenues. Two houses are aplace for women and their children under 8 to live in and two houses are just strictly women. I work in one of each. I work Friday and Saturday grave shift for now. It is tough staying up all night but I get to catch up on alot of reading, journaling, mindless internet surfing, etc. I love to see the women progress and get stronger in their resolve to kick their addictions and fight the many demons in their lives. It is cool to see them learn to parent soberly and apply the things they have learned in their treatment.

So besides work here is a little timeline of some fun events in the past three months...Sorry about the pictureless post. Pictures to follow this week.
In Mid-march our family was shopping in Macy's and Stone was asked to be in a Spring fashion show in the kids department. He wore a cute black and white Kenneth Cole number and Spence walked him down the catwalk/aisle. It was very small but fun and kids got to pick out treats and a stuffed animal after the show was over.
March 23rd Stone took his first steps while we were watching the "Bee" Movie for family night. He still preferred crawling to walking for about 2-3 weeks after that but now he a seasoned walker.
1st week of April we housesat and had Stone's 1st birthday party there on April 8th. He had a blast and i loved cooking and hosting the party. It rained all day so our party at the park did not work out. We had fun indoors anyways.
Had a quiet easter, house sitting and shared in the making of easter dinner with my wonderful sis in law Tam. Stone loved his easter basket especially sucking on all the plastic eggs and a plastic carrot. We have given him some tastes of candy and he loves it of course. He loves chocolate the most like his dad.
Towards the end of April my mom came and visited for a few days. We missed her so much and wished my dad could have come too. We went to the petting zoo at Thanksgiving point, went to the dollar movies, out to lunch/dinner and went shopping of course. We also got much needed pedicures at the Karu Door. We had sake/ginger pedicures, it was so relaxing, thanks mom.
The next week we were off for a much needed vacation to southern california. We stayed with Spence's childhood best friends Aaron and his fiance Fitriah in Rancho Santa Margarita. They had work all week so we mostly did our own thing. We visited Spence's friends at work and Spence's old work in the same building. We visited our old institute teacher at Saddleback college adn introduced our little offspring. We went to Pedro's tacos...an absolute must. I have been craving their food way too long. We went to the old beach in San Clemente where Spence and I used to walk to from his place and we went to the rip curl outlet for me to get some discount priced casual becahwear.
We ate at a fabulous restaurant in Irvine area call Mastro's...the best seafood ever and hugest shrimp I have ever seen. I had snow crab claws for the first time and fell in love and the lobster mashed potatoes were freakin AMAZING! Oh, how I love great food. One of Spencer's old friends is a bartender there so ho hooked up all his buddies and significant others with a private room and a normally 200 dolla meal for 2 people ended up being just over 50 dollars. So nice of him.
We got an amazing deal on hopper passes thanks to Aaron and Amber met us there for an hour or so with her three adorable boys. She is so awesome to come meet us there rollin solo with them. She is amazing.
We also went to Aliso Viejo where we lived when we were first married and went to the great shopping center where we used to hang out and go to movies. Stone was being so hyper during wolverine so I left and we played by the fountains and got golden spoon yogurt.
On saturday I went over to Amber's with Stone and we played with the boys and went in the spa. We had so much fun just hanging out and catching up. I loved seeing how much her boys have grown and finally meeting cute little Dane.
Stone did well in the car and we listened to an awesome book on c.d. called the Great and terrible series..we listened to the first two The Brothers and Where Angels Fall...it is a church book series and I highly recommend it.
May has been filled with great weather and a lot of swimming with Stone and walks in the neighborhood. I joined Gold's gym with Spence and it feels so great to workout after almost two years of not doing it consistently. It is fun to workout with Spence and also just take time out for myself. Stone does great in the free childcare...although he's not the best at sharing toys. He's obsessed with balls, and I saw him trying to steal a pink doll stroller from a boy twice his size. It is hilarious. I cringe everytime I see him chewing/sucking on toys in a place like that but what can you do? Buildin up his immunity I hope.
I also started a pure perfume oil business called Of the Esscents. I bought all my product after our tax return and it has taken me a while to get organized adn get all the supplies I need to actually start selling. I had my first perfume party the other night and made over $200 on less than two hours. I had a great time even though only five people showed up. I really enjoyed myself. My sister and mom are hosting a party when I come out the first week of July...let me know if you are interested. It will be July 2nd or 3rd. I have over 200 perfumes/colognes for a really great deal. My artist friend and I are going to collaborate in the fall and she is going to hand paint glass perfume bottles and we will set up booths at festivals and the swap meet and stuff. I am excited, and hope it takes off, so I can quit one of my grave shifts.
Thats all for now. I have so many cute pictures to post so I promise I will leave out the boring commentary next post. Just wanted to let everyone know that the Thompson family is alive and well and busy as ever.

Stone's new sunglasses

2009-03-06T09:56:00.000-08:00

We went to Park City on wednesday and we got Stone these sunglasses at the Harley Davidson shop and some new Vans. The glasses are a little big but I think they look cute still.

Sugar House Park

2009-03-06T09:33:00.000-08:00

A few days ago it hit about 67 degrees in S.L.C.
So of course we had to go to the park. Sugarhouse park is one of the better parks near our house. There is a huge pond, ducks, streams coming through the park and two parks for kids. There is huge fields for soccer, football, volleyball, etc and of course it wouldn't be Utah without a bunch of joggers. We had a fun time and Spence got to come too. Stone liked everything except being by the little waterfall of the stream. He usually loves water but I think the "rushing water" scared him. I hope we have more days like this soon.

He went down by himself about three times, it was so cute.

2009-03-06T09:22:00.000-08:00

Daddy and Stone

Cruisin down the slide

Stone swinging

2009-03-05T11:41:00.000-08:00

2009-02-27T13:14:00.000-08:00

He loves carrying around dad's microphone, it's pretty heavy too.

Spence works early in the morning so him and Stone usually take an afternoon nap together. The boy is spoiled I know. He definitely will take a nap twice as long if he knows his dad is near.

I love his cheeseball smile in this one.

Stone and I standing in front of one of Spencer's old friends house. Our friend was so surprised to see how much Stone had grown. The last time she saw him he was about 6 weeks old.

2009-02-27T13:03:00.000-08:00

My happy little round faced boy.

His cute cottage cheese bum and his favorite toy for now.

My brother and sister in law know how much Spence loves M.M.A. so they got Stone a "Napout" instead of "Tapout" onesie and sweatshirt. He looks so cute in them.

This was after he had the flu so his face looks skinnier to me and looks more grown up, tear.

His little whiney face

A few pics from the past month

2009-02-20T11:02:00.000-08:00

I have Stone asleep here on my shoulder so I will add more commentary later to the pics below. I hate typing with one hand.

2009-02-20T10:59:00.000-08:00

2009-02-20T10:54:00.000-08:00

No place like home for the Holidays

2009-01-09T11:42:00.000-08:00

My brother Brandon and I

My hubster

Family gathered around watching Uncle Spence's second M.M.A. fight. I could always find my husband in another room or outside wrestling one of our nephews.

Mercedes very proud of her new hot pink shuffle. Very great playlist. Her Logan and I were rocking out. I love that my nieces and nephews know good old bands before there parents were even born. I have a very eclectic music taste but I am always a sucker for good ol rock n'roll like Zeppelin, Hendrix, AC/DC, Styx, Rush, etc. You get the picture. My niece Mercedes said the cutest thing, "Aunt Brooke I can't believe it we like the same music and have the same toes." Her parents have told her she has had my barney rubble toes since she could remember probably. Anyhow it just cracked me up, but very true indeed.

The twinner toes, although hers are much cuter than mine.

Don't worry this will be the last post/picture of my feet...ever...I promise.

2009-01-09T11:32:00.000-08:00

My nephew Beau is a future little heartbreaker, dont you love those dimples? So adorable.

And look at this cutie Jaden, we got some good lookin kiddos in this family.

Do any of you remember when I nannied for the Ericksen's? This is Matt and Jon all grown up. They saw my brothers work truck and stopped in to say hello. My brother Brandon nannied for them before his mission and I nannied for them before my mission. The last time I saw them they were 13 and 15. Jon is the younger one on the left and now is 20 and attends SDSU, Matt is 23 and graduated from Purdue and is now in Law School in San Francisco. I think they turned out so nice, and they were fun teens too. It's crazy how time flies.

2009-01-09T11:25:00.000-08:00

My sis in law Tiff and I. Thanks for perfect pillow placement over my leftover baby belly.

My daddio and I

My bro Jason giving Stone a nice smacker, and I think Stone turned his head to see his daddy in the background.

Stone and Aunt Stacey

My brother in law Paul and my neice Breanna

2009-01-09T11:02:00.000-08:00

Stone was absolutely spoiled by his family on both sides. He made out like a champ. Way to much loot for an almost nine month old baby. This pic is in his room on December 31st. I liked how my parents always took a pic of us by our Santa gifts and stocking. I just couldn't get him to sit still.

Stone man and I early Christmas morning. Sorry babe I erased the rest of the non showered makeup Christmas morning pics.

Good ol lights at S.L.C.'s temple square. My friend Lindsey came with us and we had a fun time, unfortunately my camera and her camera stopped working after these two pics, bummer. We walked around as fast as possible because it was so freezing, Stone did not enjoy it very much...I don't blame him. The lights here are the best though. We also took Stone to see Zoo lights, over a million lights at the Hogle Zoo, it was so cool, but again it was freezing and we couldn't get Stone to even give us a half smile the whole hour we were there.

One of my many goals

2009-01-09T10:15:00.000-08:00

One goal for the new year is to post in a timely manner. I have a tendency to find older photos and decide I want to post them months later. I guess I have two excuses for putting up these pics late was that 1) our old camera worked only when it wanted to, and 2) we moved and had our camera in storage for almost a month. No more excuses my family and friends because my wonderful husband bought me my very own digital camera. (I think he realized I used his more than he did). I'm very excited because it's waterproof (I can take it underwater up to 13 ft), and dust and "drop" resistant. The drop resistant is a very important feature if you know my husband and I very well. I tease my husband because I tell him how rough he is on things and he doesn't even mean too; like the time he sat on my Amish rocking chair and broke one side of it, just by sitting; or like last Christmas how he did some MMA kick and when his foot came crashing down my cute ceramic Santa came sailing down off our hutch from across the room...All I had to do was laugh about that one. So things falling and breaking seem to be a common occurence in this house. Last month I was screwing in a simple lightbulb and the thing just shattered. Could it be my "Mom Strength", that I have seen and heard people talk about but never really experienced firsthand. Not more than two weeks earlier I sat on my glasses and broke them right down the middle. Spence has to fix his glasses about three times a week (Stone loves to grab off dad's face, and pull glasses apart). Thank goodness for Krazy Glue, that's all I have to say. Stone seems to be a "breaker" also, in a matter of two days he broke two glasses and a gerber baby jar. I am part to blame for keeping the cups and jar within his reach (rookie mom move) ...that kid does not even flinch for breaking glass. I am just glad that he never hurt himself or that a shard of glass did not graze his eyeball (Mom's crazy fears). Anyhow now that I have this wonderful new camera I have no excuse but to post in an orderly fashion. So feast your eyes on my cornacopia of photos from the past two months. No need for captions, just a few fun ones like: Stone falling over on a chair, Stone's sleepy eyes, Stone crawling over and sucking on dad's big toe (they were clean don't worry) and a few firsts like first horse ride, first snow, first cracker, and a smattering of just some cute photos of my boy because he is just growing up too fast.

2009-01-09T10:12:00.000-08:00

2009-01-09T09:57:00.000-08:00