The Finlinson Family

Going Private.

2012-01-04T16:15:00.000-08:00

I think I'm finally going to go private. I don't know if anyone still reads this, but if you want to follow my blog, give me your email address and I will add you. I'll wait till April or May to do this for those of you who check blogs as often as I do! :) Thanks!

December 2011

2012-01-04T16:00:00.000-08:00

On December 3rd, we went up to Temple Square with my family. It was tons of fun despite that it was freezing cold (though my mom insists we've been when it's been lots colder) and James and I were deathly ill with bronchitis. We ate yummy Cafe Rio afterwards! We had a wonderful Christmas this year! We feel so blessed. It's hard to believe we survived all the parties and shopping. It always goes by too fast.

This is Abigail with Santa at my family's Christmas Eve party. There were only 3 kids total this year - Abigail, James, and cousin, Claire (11 months). It was weird, but really nice to not have it so chaotic. Jed was working Christmas Eve and we missed him like crazy! Abigail was such an angel all night!

James on the otherhand....

Here he is with my sister, Mckell. He FREAKED out! Hysterical! Quite embarrassing for his mother. In his defense, he was exhausted.

Daddy made it home Christmas morning at 8:00am. Since we had church at 9:00 am, I had the kids get all ready for church before going down to see what Santa brought. They were so sweet. They got everything they asked for - which thankfully wasn't too much! Here is James with his Buzz Lightyear. It's the real deal. Whenever I asked him what he wanted for Christmas, all he would say was, "Buzz." He's been in heaven with it.

Here's Abigail with her Baby-sitter Barbie. All she asked for this year was Barbies. She got a few of them. Then we went to church. We came home and played with our new toys!

We spent the day at my parents' and at Jed's parents'. What a wonderful day. I love living so close to our families. Here's to a new year!

November 2011

2011-11-26T15:02:00.001-08:00

I can't believe November is almost over! We had a wonderful Thanksgiving! Jed was working again, so we missed him a lot. Here are my beautiful kids before heading up to my parents' for a delicious feast.
I was in charge of making the names for the place settings. How creative am I? My little pilgrim hats and bonnetts worked out pretty good. They took me over 2 hours to make, but hey, I was happy with them! :)

We had eaten dinner and then my cousins came up. We did a cute craft and let the kids decorate gingerbread (well, graham cracker) houses. Then we all went to Spanish Fork's Festival of Lights. We piled in the back of a couple trucks. Here is James with Mckenzee and Bronson in my dad's truck.

Here is Abigail and cousin, Mylee (and Alex and Kallin in window) in the back of Alex's truck. What a fun night! The kids LOVED it!

We finally got James in a "big boy" bed and he LOVES it! Yes, we left the crib up, so there really is no room in his bedroom. He slept in the bed for the first time last night and did awesome! He woke up saying, "I love my big boy bed. It is so fun!" Seriously. My kid is a crack-up.

October 2011

2011-11-26T14:42:00.000-08:00

On October 19, my mom and I took the kids up to Gardner Village. We love to see the witches! The kids were both scared of the witches at first and then warmed up.
Happy Halloween! We had our family party on Wed. October 26. This is Abigail (Rapunzel), Me (Mother Gothel) and James (firefighter) before we headed up to the York's house.

We always do a treasure hunt. A couple of my cousins jumped out and scared the kids and Abigail was hysterical! She screamed bloody murder and yelled over and over, "SOMEBODY SAVE ME!" It was hilarious! She's kind of traumatized, though. :)

On Friday, October 28, my mom, my sister, Mckell, and my aunt Lesa made a really quick trip down to St. George to see the production of "Thriller" at the Tuachan. It was a lot of fun! Here is Mckell with a zombie girl. The zombies harrassed my mom and it was hilarious!

We had a crazy Halloween day. Jed was working again. Abi went to school and had her Halloween party. She got home, we at lunch, and then met my sister-in-law, Angie, and her kids at Jed's Grandparents' house. Here is Hallie, Abi, and Sydnie. James and Colton were not cooperating, so I didn't get a picture of all 5 kids. Then we left from there and did Springville's Trick or Treat on Main street. Then I brought James home for a short nap while Abi went with my neighbor to their ward Trunk or Treat. They got back and we took our kids around our neightborhood trick or treating. Then the kids and I went to my parents. It was the busiest day EVER! We were so exhausted!

September 2011

2011-11-26T14:33:00.000-08:00

We celebrated Onion Days in Payson on Sept. 5. We went to the car show and the kids got to ride the train. James was in heaven! He was so proud to ride it by himself! Here he is with Abigail and cousin, Sydnie.
Here's my little girl's first day of Pre-K preschool on Sept. 7. She's at the Kinder Garden again and she loves it! She is learning so much!

On Saturday, Sept. 17, Jed and I took the kids up the canyon with our friends, the Mayberry's. We went to Kelly's Grove and had dutch oven dinner and peach cobbler. It was a lot of fun! Here is James and Sawyer not really eating dinner.

Abigail, James, and Zoey being silly up the canyon.

On Sept. 20, we went to P.F. Chang's to celebrate mine and Bronson's birthdays. It was a lot of fun and delicious. My kids love the big horse statues.

August 2011

2011-11-26T14:18:00.001-08:00

Jed surprised me this year for our 5th Anniversary! We left the kids with Jed's parents on August 3 and spent the evening in Grand Junction, CO. The next morning, Aug. 4, we shopped Downtown Grand Junction. Then we made our way through a beautiful canyon until we happened upon a gorgeous resort in the middle of nowhere. It's called Gateway Canyon Resort and it was SO much fun! Seriously, it's definitely one of my very favorite vacation destinations. Plus, I had a great few days with Jeddy. It was the best surprise! We came home on Aug. 5.
The next day, August 6, Jed, the kids, and I went boating on Utah Lake with my family. Fun day! Here is James, Abigail, Mckell, and Kenz, relaxing and snacking. My kids LOVE boating!

On August 12, Jed and I took the kids up to the Discovery Gateway children's museum in Salt Lake. We had free passes (thanks, Anna!) and had a great time! We'd never been there before. The kids were in heaven! It was pretty busy, though. Fun enough to do once!

On August 20, i took Abigail with me to the Utah County Demolition Derby in Spanish Fork. Jed was working again. Abigail did really good, though she does not like loud noises. My brother-in-law was in the derby this year - his first time. He did pretty good. It was really fun to watch him. Jed's whole family was with us, so that was extra fun. It started at 8 pm and we got home after 11pm.

On August 30, my little sister, Mckenzee got married! It still is wierd! We adore Bronson, though, and they are so happy. Here are my beautiful kids in front of the Draper Temple before the ceremony.

The Rest of July

2011-11-26T13:47:00.000-08:00

We had one crazy summer! On July 15, we went to the Ute Stampede Rodeo with all of Jed's friends. Naturally, Jed was working, but the kids and I had fun. My sister, Kell, came to help me with my monsters. Here is Abigail with her friends, Jackson and Jakelle. We just do not see them enough.
Jed was also working when the kids and I went to Lake Powell with my family from July 17 - 20. We had a great time! It was James's first trip and Abigail's 4th! James had a blast! Here he is helping Grandpa drive the boat.

Both kids were such great sports! They hiked up to these indian ruins with us. They also never complained about having to wear their lifejackets 24/7. :) You can never be too careful - especially on a houseboat. Remarkably, I had a wonderful trip despite having such anxiety!

On Saturday, July 22, I had the bright idea to walk the Hobble Creek Canyon trail with Jed and the kids. I hadn't realized it was so long! It about killed me! We went in the heat of the day, too! We had the kids in the stroller and they were sweethearts. We walked clear up to Kelly's Grove and ate lunch and let my kids cool their cooked bodies in the river. Abi found this potato bug and it had babies in her hand! I'd never seen such a thing. Too bad you can't see all the babies in the picture (they are tiny and white).

On Friday, July 29, we went down to Jed's annual family reunion in Delta, UT. It was a fun evening. We let the kids swim at the hotel and then went to the park for dinner and games. Jed's cousin brought down his pony and gave the kids rides. It was a lot of fun.

4th of July 2011

2011-07-12T12:58:00.000-07:00

Jed won tickets (in a drawing he didn't know he entered) to Stadium of Fire. I was so excited! Jed was working that day, so I took Abigail. This is after our 10+ block walk to the stadium. We had pretty decent seats but it was 100 degrees and I was dying. That's why this picture's extra scary. But at least Abi is gorgeous with those piercing blue eyes.

We lucked out, because there was quite a bit of space around us. Abi made herself at home on the bench in front of me when it started. She had her legs crossed and everything. Such a little lady. :)

Here's Abi and Brad Paisley. He's amazing. It was such a fun show! Abi thought David Archuleta was cute. She was so excited for the fireworks and then they scared her half to death. She wimpered and screamed, "I wanna go home!" for the first have of the firework show and then fell asleep! That made the long walk back to the car extra hard on mom!

Monday, July 4, the kids and I got up early and met Jed in Murray to ride in their Murray Days Parade. We were on the big Tower truck and got to throw tons of candy. We had a BLAST! We are so grateful for Jed to work in such a wonderful community!

Here's me and the kiddos on the truck after the parade ended. What a fun day! We love Independence Day!

Summer Fun

2011-07-12T12:36:00.000-07:00

We went a couple times with the cousins to North Park in Spanish Fork. It has a playground and a slash pad. Here is Sydnie (5), Hallie (2 1/2), Abi (4), Alyssa (almost 2), and James (2). Alyssa's brother Brock (almost 4) was there as well. They were visiting from Germany so it was fun to spend time with them!

Boating with my family. James helping Grandpa drive the boat.

Abigail and Kenz hanging out. Kenz is getting married on Aug. 30 and we're so excited!

Abigail and her friend, Kaysia on our Slip N' Slide. These are our little "twins" in the ward. They're the same age and have the white/blonde hair. Kaysia and her family are moving at the end of the summer and we're so sad.

Jed took me 4-wheeling a couple weeks ago up Hobble Creek Canyon. We went with our friends, Casey and Trista. I've never seen it rain so hard in my life! We were drenched! We got pelted with hail, too. It was an adventure!

Art City Days 2011

2011-07-12T12:22:00.001-07:00

We had such a fun week celebrating Art City Days! Abigail had her cheer clinic performance on Wed. June 8. She did awesome! Her cousins, Sydnie and Hallie, came to watch her.

They (with their parents) came Friday, June 10 to the Fireman's breakfast to support Jed, too. The Fire Department had the antique fire truck out for the kids to climb on. Here's Syd, Abi, James, and Hallie.

That evening, the kids and I went to the carnival with my mom and Mckell. Here's Abi on the ferris wheel with Kell.

My little chicken-liver James. This is how he handled each ride I put him on. Gradually he got a little more brave. This is the carousel.

The parade was Saturday, June 11. Jed got assigned to drive the big water tender truck in the parade. James and I rode with him and had a great time! Abi wanted to sit with her cousins and watch. We were #2 in line, so we were able to come back and watch most of the parade with Abigail and my family. It's the first time I've gotten Jed to the Art City Days parade and it was so fun to have him there!

More Summarizing...

2011-06-07T11:15:00.000-07:00

On Saturday, May 28 Jed decided to take me and the kids on a ride in the jeep. This is where we ended up...

We came upon some boys that were stuck. We tried to help and then got stuck as well. You can't see us, but the kids and I are in there! It actually was fun even though the kids were panicking. I didn't think we'd be able to get James back in the jeep ever again! They both talk about it constantly and how fun it was. Thankfully, my 2 brothers came with their winch and pulled everyone out!

Jed was on call with Springville every evening of Memorial weekend, so we decided to make the days extra fun since we couldn't go camping. We took the kids up Payson canyon and hiked The Grotto. It was a BLAST! The kids had such a fun time! We got super muddy and the river made me nervous cuz it's SO full, but we had the time of our lives. The kids were angels and stayed right with us. We had to cross the river a number of times and they did great! It snowed big, white flakes on us about the whole hike, too.

Then, after lunch, we took a long ride out to the nutty putty caves. The kids napped and Jed took the jeep on the 4-wheeler trail that goes up to it (the long, rocky way). I'd never been out there, so it was neat to see - even now that it's filled in. Then we headed back for a fun BBQ at my parent's. It ended up being a wonderful weekend.

Tuesday, May 31, Jed didn't have to be to work, so we went to Bridal Veil falls. Just Abi and I got out of the car since James was napping. The waterfall is the same, but the river is unbelievable. Everyone thought I was crazy for letting her get this close to it.

Yea, for Art City Days! It's actually going on this week, but last Saturday was the Nestle 5K. I participated in it with my sisters, Kenz and Kell, my friend, Lindsey (and her kids), and her sis-in-law Leann. It was such a BLAST! My mom had to be to work, so she dropped off my kids to us for the raffle. We didn't win anything. Jed was up at Soldier's Hollow doing the Dirty Dash with his crew. I was sad to miss it.

We're gonna have a fun week with Art City days, so more pictures to come! We did the Teddy Bear Tea Party yesterday at the library and kids had a great time!

I promise to be a more diligent blogger!

Happy Birthday, Abigail and James!

2011-06-07T11:00:00.000-07:00

Both of my kids are a year older! We had a crazy month of May, but a wonderful one! Here's James and his new basketball hoop on his 2nd birthday, May 6. Uncle Jay was giving him some lessons. :) James is actually an awesome shooter! Future NBA player, right here!

Abigail and James right before his party. We just had my family and Jed's family over for pizza a little firefighter party. Way fun night! Of course, he got spoiled!

Abi's birthday was a week long celebration. We celebrated at my parent's house on Sunday, May 15. Then at the Finlinson's on Monday, May 16. Then her actual birthday was on Wed. May 18 so we had Princess Tea Party at the clubhouse. It was a ton of fun! She has some really amazing little friends. Here she is opening presents.

Here's birthday girl, Rapunzel, and Princess Zoey. I let my friend Lindsey (Zoey's mom) be in charge of my camera and she went a little overboard. :) But, she took lots of fun pics!

Life Flight came to Jed's bi-monthly ambulance meeting and the families got to come. It happened to be on Abigail's birthday and Jed convinced her that's why they came. It was pouring rain, but what a neat experience. Here's Abi with Zoey and Mollie (whose father's are on the ambulance with Jed) under her new umbrella in front of the helicopter.

Easter 2011

2011-06-07T10:49:00.000-07:00

Easter Saturday at the Finlinson's. Abbie always does a fun candy hunt for the kiddos and a big, delicious breakfast. Here's Abi, James, Sydnie (5), and Hallie (2). Baby Colton (7 mos) was also there, but not participating. :)

Then we went to my family party at my Aunt Lesa's. Here's most of the kids excited to start the egg hunt. There is Abi, Josh, Carlee, Mylee, Addison, Jocelyn, Audrey, Kate, and Weston.

James did not want to stand with the group. :) They all had way too many eggs! Seriously, Abigail had to go empty her overflowing bucket and come back and refill it. We had eggs in mine and Jed's pockets and in the kids' hoods! A lot of candy, but what a fun day!

The kids on Easter Sunday in their new outfits. Handsome kids if I do say so myself!

Summary of our Last Few Months

2011-06-07T10:37:00.000-07:00

Clearly I'm out of practice cause these are backwards. This was at Fat Cat's Bowling Alley with our friends the Mayberry's.

This is what Jeddy got me for Mother's Day! I've been asking for one for a year! I LOVE it and use it a ton! Thanks Hubby!

My mom and I took the kids to Hogle Zoo over Abi's spring break in April. It was chilly and rainy but still a great day! Thanks Grandma!

Happy Birthday, Jed! We celebrated his birthday on Mar. 26. We gave him a new fishing pole! I'm mad this picture went fuzzy.

For a full week at the end of February I baby sat my cousins, The Neilsons, in Payson. What an experience! They have Connor (11), Evan (9), Kate (6), and Audrey (2). So those 4 plus my 2 made me a mom of 6 for 9 days! I meant to get a picture of all 6 together, but only got this one of Audrey who I couldn't get to go to sleep in her crib that day.

End-of-the-Year Trip to St. G

2011-01-04T19:46:00.001-08:00

The kids and I (Jed had to work) headed down to St. George with my parents and brother, Austin, on Mon. Dec. 27- Thurs. Dec. 30. It was a nice little vacation after a busy holiday season. Abi and James showing off new Christmas outfits.

Abi said, "Take another picture of me making a funny face!"

Tues. we took Abigail to get her ears pierced. She did so good! And she loves them! Daddy was NOT happy we did it without his consent, but we are happy we did it! She feels like a princess!

It rained all day Wed. and then on Thurs this is what we woke up to! 2" in St. George. The roads were horrible all the way home, but we made it! Thanks for a fun trip, mom and dad!

Christmas Day with the Grandparents

2011-01-04T19:39:00.000-08:00

We got to Jed's parents' by 9:30 am. We spent the whole day there and had a wonderful day. One thing that they gave the kids was a Pillow Pet. It was the one thing Abi consistently asked for for Christmas. Thanks Grandma Abbie and Grandpa Scott! Seriously, they are the best thing. My kids love them!

Abi also got a Salon from Grandma and Grandpa Harder. She sits at it for hours!

James got this horse from Grandma and Grandpa Harder. It neighs and moves it's head and tail. He had to warm up to it, but loves it! We had a wonderful Christmas and feel blessed to live so close to all of our family!

Christmas Morning 2010

2011-01-04T19:32:00.000-08:00

We had to wake up the kids! Here they are in front of the tree. James is ready!

Daddy and his new electric shaver.

The kids finishing up. It goes way too fast!

James showing off his "Bucket of Horses."

Both of them playing with James's raceway. Abi got a Bitty Baby. A small, but very nice Christmas. Thanks, Santa!

Opening Christmas Jammies with the Yorks

2011-01-04T19:23:00.000-08:00

James and Grandpa laying on a big horse. He was pretending to be asleep and thought it was so funny!

Uncle Austin, Abi, daddy Alex, and 3 week old Kallin.

James and his new Elmo slippers. He LOVED them!

Abigail and her princess nightgown. She was so proud of it. She does look like a princess in it!

Abi and her "purple puppy." James had gotten the green one last year and Abi has loved it and wanted her own. So grandma gave her one.

Christmas Eve Family Party

2011-01-04T19:09:00.000-08:00

Abi did much better with Santa this time! She even spoke to him!

Abi with the Rapunzel Santa gave her.

Despite what the picture shows, James didn't cry. He sat there for a minute and then was done!

James and his tractor.

Abi the angel in the Nativity with Kylie (Mary) and Kallin (baby Jesus)

This year, we had a lot less people (3 families came) and though it was different, it was nice. A lot more relaxing and less chaotic. The kids had a great time. The food was delicious. Abi loved dressing up for the nativity. Her and Mylee were angels, but then when it was over, she insisted on trying all the other costumes on. She was a cute Mary and a star, too. James absolutely would not wear a costume. So he held a sheep. The party was over by 7. It was a very nice evening.

Gingerbread Houses with Friends

2011-01-04T19:02:00.000-08:00

The kids going to town on their houses!

Yummy!

Abigail and her masterpiece. She did it all by herself! Frosting and all!

James with his house... mommy helped. :)

On Wed. Dec. 22, the kids and I went up to visit our old neighbors. She had made gingerbread houses from scratch and the kids each decorated one. They had a blast! It was so fun to get our kids together since they're the same ages! Thanks for the fun day, guys!

Murray Fire Dept Christmas Party

2011-01-04T18:53:00.000-08:00

Jed's fire party was on Wed. Dec. 15. They had people there painting faces. I thought it was such a fun idea! Abigail got a sparkly poinsetta.

James pouting after dinner.

They had fun crafts for the kids. Abi and James designing a mug.

Finally Santa came...with Mrs. Claus! James did just great! Santa gave him a cool fire truck.

Abi had been so excited for him to come and then our kids were some of the last ones so she lost patience. She did not want to sit on his lap. She left without her gift and Jed had to go up and get it. She definitely loved the princess Zhu Zhu pet she got, though!

Live Nativity

2010-12-11T12:10:00.000-08:00

Angie, Colton, Hallie, Abbie, Abigail (look at that ornery face!), Sydney, and James (in the camo coat)

Me and the kids. No Abi is not asleep standing up. She's just a bum.

Last Monday, Dec. 6, the kids and I went with my mother-in-law, Abbie, and my sis-in-law, Angie and her 3 kids to a live nativity in American Fork. None of us had been so it was an adventure! It was honestly really neat and fun. The kids were really great inspite of all the unexpected walking. It had rained all day so it was SO muddy! It was great to do once!

Temple Square 2010

2010-12-11T12:04:00.001-08:00

Seriously I still haven't figured out my camera yet! Abi and James in front of the temple.

Me and the kids.

The kids in front of these cool new lights! They look like the trees are on fire! Oh, and Abigail pouting.

On Tuesday, Nov. 30, my mom and I took the kids to temple square. We wanted to wait to go when Jed could come, too, but with his 4 jobs and school (seriously) we knew it wouldn't happen. It ended up being a great night! It was chilly, but not miserable like a lot of years and hardly anyone was there! That was way nice since usually there's a million people there! It was beautiful and one of my favorite Christmas traditions!

Jed's Swearing-In Ceremony

2010-12-11T12:00:00.000-08:00

On Tuesday, Nov. 16, the new Murray City firefighters were sworn-in at their city council meeting. I thought it was so neat! I got to pin his badge on him. He's official! Our kids were there, so I don't know why I didn't get a picture of them!

Halloween and Cousins

2010-11-03T11:40:00.001-07:00

Visiting Jed's family on Halloween. Hallie (almost 2), James (18 mos), Colton (5 wks), Abigail (3), and Sydnie (almost 5).

Hallie, James, Abi, and Syd.

Just the girls! Abi and the two little witches. My sis-in-law, Angie, made these tutu's for her girls and they were so dang cute!

Murray Fire Halloween Party

2010-11-03T10:57:00.000-07:00

Friday, Oct. 29, Jed's fire dept had a Halloween party. With James's arm, we haven't been able to go up and visit his station. So, we headed up early and got he grand tour. I have to say, the yellow fire engines are pretty flashy! :) Jed was on duty Fri and Sat, so it was fun to see him during his shift.

Jed and the kids. They didn't have their costumes on yet, so everyone though they were ninjas.

Here's my ladybug (and Nemo in the corner) after the pinate broke. There were a ton of kids so they didn't get much candy...

until they did the trunk or treat! It was not snowing - I don't know what the white spots are...

James after the trunk or treat. He had a blast! I stayed at our trunk and handed out candy while daddy took them around. Poor kid had to do everything one handed. He had to sit the bucket down to get a piece of candy.

What a fun night! It was so fun to meet Jed's co-workers and see where he lives for his 48 hr shifts. I'm even more excited about his job now. Happy Halloween!

Family Halloween Party

2010-11-03T10:49:00.000-07:00

Monday, Oct. 25 ( 3 days after James broke his arm) we had our family Halloween Party at the York's. We decided to take James and see how he would do. This is how he spent most of the time - Grandpa is the only other person he would let hold him besides mom. He was Nemo (well, a clown fish). After his accident, we joked that he was a great Nemo - complete with a gimpy fin!
Here's cousin, Mylee (Tinkerbell) and my little Ladybug. Best Friends!
Here's James at the end of the party - finally acting a little more like himself. It was still a fun night and so fun to see everyone!

My Baby Boy and His Broken Arm

2010-10-28T14:55:00.000-07:00

Last Friday night, October 22, I decided to make James cry himself to sleep. The last couple weeks he's learned to prop himself up in the corner of his crib and scream bloody murder. That way, mom or dad will rescue him and bounce him for an hour till he goes to sleep. I was not going to take it anymore. He had been crying for about 10 mins when I heard a "thunk, thunk, thunk" followed by a blood curdling scream and knew what happened. He's never gotten out before. I took him into EMT dad and he couldn't find anything wrong, but he was definitely in pain. I left Jed with sleeping Abigail (this was 10:00 pm) and headed to the ER. Thankfully, my mom and aunt Lesa were just getting out of a movie and actually beat me there. I was so grateful I didn't have to be alone! When we got to see a Dr., he had me pull off James's jammies and we instantly saw bruising and swelling just above his right elbow where it was fractured. My poor baby! Thankfully, it was above the growth plates. After very painful x-rays (his arm had an angle where it shouldn't), we came back and they gave him an IV (see pic above). They wrapped it all up so he couldn't rip it out. I was also holding an ice pack on the break. He'd just had a shot of morphine in that picture and was feeling better. Then they put it in a splint and sent us up to the pediatric unit to await surgery.
This is right after they got us upstairs (approx. 1:00 am). My mom and Lesa each took turns staying with Abigail so Jed could come be with James. James fell asleep at 1:30 so Jed went home to try get some sleep while I stayed with my baby. Jed returned at 7 am on Sat, Oct. 23. They came and got James for surgery just before 9:00 am. I bawled hysterically as they took him down the hall and out of sight. It was only about 45 mins later when they wheeled him back out to us. The surgeon had put it back in place and put two pins in it. He said it went great.
This right after the surgery when we got back to our room. He was still knocked out from the anesthesia. The had him hooked up to all sorts of wires and monitors to make sure he came out of it okay.
Holding daddy and his doggy. Rough day for a baby. I know that I will be dealing with many broken bones since he's a boy, but I never could've imagined it would be this soon. 18 months is way too young!
I don't know why this one turned, so I apologize! This was after he ate some lunch and did really well (he has brownie on his face). They unhooked all the monitors and gave him one last dose of morphine, so he took another resty. Jed was supposed to have started his shift at Murray at 7 am, but his amazing chief let him stay for the surgery. He left by 2 and was gone till Monday morning! After he left, they checked us out and my mom and Abigail picked us up. We were home by 5.

Even after many rough nights and trying to help James adjust to not having a right hand, I still feel overwhelmingly blessed. It could've been so much worse than it was. They even would've had to send us to Primary Children's if any other surgeon would've been on except the one that was. James was in so much pain the first 2 days (there's only so much you can do for a baby's pain), but he's bounced back and adjusted faster than I imagined. We've had an outpouring of help and prayers from family, friends, and neighbors. He's just in a splint and he'll get it off and the pins removed in 3 weeks (well, now 2) and have full use of him arm. We're finally getting a sense of normalcy back and he is only waking up once in the night. I am so proud of my tough little boy. I am so grateful to have him in my life. I love you, James!

Jed's a Career Firefighter! He got a job!

2010-10-18T10:56:00.000-07:00

He did it! He got hired on as a full-time firefighter for Murray City! It really is surreal. His dream has come true - and quicker than we imagined. My prayers have been answered and we are ecstatic! He started yesterday and LOVES it! He was hired on Thurs., Oct. 7, so the next evening, we got the families together and celebrated. I'm so proud of him! He's worked so hard and has been through so much. We're really grateful for his job with Springville City because it gave him the experience to get him a full-time job.

Getting ready for his first day. The night before his first shift, he was so excited that he tried on his uniform and looked so handsome. My hubby the hero! :)
He was so ready! This is definitely what he was born to do and I know that this is where he's supposed to be. What an incredible blessing! Congratulations, Jeddy! I love you!

Jeepin' to Daniel's Summit

2010-10-18T10:50:00.000-07:00

Last Saturday, Oct. 16, Jed and I left the kids with his mom and we made the drive from Hobble Creek Canyon to Daniel's Summit. It's probably my very favorite trail. We had our friends and neighbors, Mike and Dannel Porter come and they enjoyed it, too. We usually do the trail on the 4-wheeler, so this was an even better ride with comfy seats and a heater. Most of the leaves have fallen, but the quakies are still beautiful with all that bright yellow! Fun day!

Professional Pix from Lauren's Wedding

2010-10-18T10:38:00.000-07:00

Abi, Allie, and Mylee. Whitney always captures my baby's bright blue eyes!

Flower girls with the Bride and Groom.

Watching the ceremony.

Signature Abigail stink-eye as she goes down the aisle.

My fave! Waiting for the ceremony to begin...

These are a select few pictures from the hundreds Whitney (my cousin/photographer) took at the wedding. She's amazing!

Bridal Veil Falls

2010-09-12T15:17:00.000-07:00

Last night, Sat. Sept. 11, Jed had gone to Evanston, WY to watch his bro drive in a Demolition Derby. I wanted to do something fun, too, so I took the kids to Cafe Rio. My parents met us for dinner before going to the Stake Conference meeting. Then I took the kids to Bridal Veil Falls. It was COLD! But, it was beautiful! The kids loved it, so we'll go back soon. Poor James was trapped in his stroller since I knew I couldn't chase both kids. What a fun place to go for FREE!

Lauren's Flower Girls

2010-09-12T15:06:00.000-07:00

Abigail and Mylee getting ready to walk down the line.

Abi doing the her job - sort of. She looked really cute NOT dropping her flower petals.

They needed a Cola after working so hard during the ceremony. :)

Allie (our 3rd flower girl) and the girls jumping on the trampoline with their skirts a flyin'!

This was a really cute picture, though, I didn't realize they looked so ornery when I took it!

My adorable cousin, Lauren, got married on Wed. Sept. 8 to her honey, Jordan Smith. They had it in my parents' backyard and my Aunt Lesa decorated it so gorgeous! Seriously, it could've been in a bride magazine! Her colors were red, yellow, and turquoise - which was such a fun combination! Abigail was a flower girl along with Lauren's niece (Abi's cousin), Mylee, and Jordan's sister, Allie. They were so cute and had a BLAST all night! It was an exhausting evening, but I think everything went perfect! Congrats, Laur and Jordan and thanks for letting us be a part of your day!

My Little Preschooler!

2010-09-12T15:00:00.000-07:00

My little girl started preschool last Tuesday, Sept. 7. I can't believe she's that old! Here she is with James getting ready to go.

Her cute new outfit - which, of course, would not be complete without the Dora backpack!

In front of her school, The Kinder Garden. I can't tell you how much I love it! I think the teachers are amazing and the room is so adorable! Abigail LOVES it! She's learning so much! I highly recommend it for anyone who is searching for a preschool! Love it, love it, love it!

The Best Park EVER!

2010-09-12T14:51:00.001-07:00

You sit on these lopsided stools and they start spinning and won't stop! Abi hated it! She was so dizzy!

James about to go down the slide. He had road rash from diving off our front porch. Boys.

Can you believe this?! Crazy cool!

Nice relaxing swings. My kinda playground.

Zoey, Sawyer, James, and Abi loving the splash pad.

Thursday, Sept. 2, Lindsey and I took our kids to a new park in Spanish Fork. It's the most fun park I've ever seen! The kids loved it! If you haven't seen it, make your way there before the weather gets cold! It covers 10 acres and is in the North Park subdivision (East of Macey's).

Price Demolition Derby

2010-08-31T15:10:00.000-07:00

Last Saturday, August 28, evening, we dropped the kids of at Grandma's and made the journey down to Price for the Demolition Derby. I'd never been to one before and had a complete BLAST! I didn't really get a good picture. My brother-in-law's boss was sponsoring the event, so he got us in free and he won! It was a great night!

Summer Fire Party

2010-08-31T15:01:00.001-07:00

Abigail and Zoey running from the water.

Jed taking Abi and Zoey through the mist to the side of the water...

James, Abi, and Zoey playing in their own muddy pool.

Abi, Sawyer, Zoey, and James in heaven!

Last Saturday, August 28, the Fire & Rescue Dept. hosted a fun summer party for all the employees families. It was a lot of fun! They fed us and then had the hoses on the fire trucks spraying a huge slippin' slide. Clearly, they sprayed a lot of water because the park was full of little pools for the kids to play in. What a fun afternoon!

Downpour at Kelly's Grove

2010-08-31T14:56:00.001-07:00

Zoey and Abigail

Little James

A couple weeks ago, my friend, Lindsey, and I took our kids up to Kelly's Grove for something to do. We got there and sat on the swings for a minute before it started raining. That turned to pouring! We sought cover under the pavilion and waited it out for about an hour. It was beautiful! Big claps of thunder and a lot of lightening. James loved the water and got soaking wet - the picture is after the rain let up and I took him out of his wet clothes. Thanks for the fun afternoon, Lindsey, Zoey, and Sawyer!

Orem Owlz Game

2010-08-31T14:52:00.001-07:00

Monday, August 9, Jed and I took the kids to the Orem Owlz vs. Ogden Raptors baseball game. It was so much fun! We just got general admission tickets so the kids could run around on the grass. My mom and sisters joined us. We left after the 9th inning cause it was late and tied 2-2. Love Baseball!

Our 5th Anniversary

2010-08-09T14:16:00.000-07:00

View of north Springville and Utah Lake from the top of Camel's Back.

A full view of Springville, Spanish Fork, Payson, Santaquin, and the small cities in between.

Jed and his new(ish) baby - a '90 Jeep Cherokee.

Me and the view.

Our 5th Anniversary was last Thurs. August 5. We had my mom keep the kids overnight on Friday. We went and saw "The Other Guys" (hilarious!) and ate at Applebee's. On Saturday, we took a ride in the Jeep from Hobble Creek canyon to Provo (Rock) Canyon. It ended up taking longer than we thought it would, but it was absolutely beautiful! We took the steep, scary, made-for-ATV's trail to the top of Camel's Back to see this breathtaking view. Through the journey, we saw a horny toad, rattlesnake, tons of squirrels, and a wild mom turkey with 2 babies. I have to say it was one of the best weekends we've ever had. Of course, we'd missed the kids, but it sure was nice to spend time with just Jed. We've been so busy this summer that we haven't hardly even seen each other. Thanks for an amazing weekend, Jeddy. I love your stinkin' guts! :)

Lake Powell 2010

2010-08-09T14:08:00.001-07:00

Jay, Kyle, Mckell, Abigail, Mckenzee, and Austin

Abigail and Grandpa dipping their toes.

Abi and the catfish she caught (or Michael let her take credit for...)

Me, Abigail, and uncle Austin tubin'.

Kenz towing Kyle's kayak after it fell off the back of the houseboat on it's way to the fuel dock.

Abigail and I left James and daddy home (he had school and work) and headed down to meet my family in Lake Powell on Wed. July 21 - Sat. July 24. They had been down there all week. I really enjoyed spending the time with Abigail. We had SO much fun! She loved Lake Powell. She bawled when we left the houseboat to come home! She slept good, loved the water, and even enjoyed riding the tube! What a woman! It was nice to have a vacation! Thanks, Mom and Dad!

Quirky Kids

2010-08-09T14:04:00.000-07:00

Abi showing off her cute flip-flops Aunt Lesa got her.

My handsome kid!

James and Abi both sportin' Tinkerbell glasses. My cheeseballs!

Payson Pool

2010-08-09T13:55:00.000-07:00

James, cousin Sydnie, and Abigail in front of the pool.

Aunt Mckell and Abigail

The week after the 4th of July, I ended up taking the kids to Payson pool twice. My sis-in-law, Gina, is a lifeguard there and it is just a way fun pool! This was day 2, July 8, when I took my sis, Mckell with so I wouldn't be alone with 2 kids again. Also, Gina met us with my other sis-in-law, Angie and her 2 girls, Sydnie and Hallie.

Fireworks at the York's

2010-07-06T12:36:00.000-07:00

The whole bunch: Brittany and Dylan Blakey, Hollie, Micheal, Lesa, Mylee, Abi, Jayne, John, Anna, Jared, Lauren, and her fiance, Jordan. Alex was lighting the fireworks.

Our cute girls: Mylee (2 1/2), Abi, and Grandma Lesa.

James wanting the firework bucket. He'd sat in water earlier - that's why he's not wearing pants. :)

Last night, the York's invited us up for homemade ice cream, catfish tacos, and fireworks. What a fun way to end an incredible weekend. Jed had covered some shifts with the ambulance so he couldn't be there and we missed him. Thanks York's for an amazing evening!

Balloon Fest

2010-07-06T12:28:00.000-07:00

All 20 hot air balloons. Look closely... :)

Abi with a couple balloons.

I had to get a pic of Abster with her favorite balloon - the piggy bank. We chased it around town!

Yesterday morning, July 5, I woke Abi up at 7 and we cruised over to watch the hot air balloons. I'm so happy she loves it as much as I do! We'd tried to go last Fri and Sat, but the wind kept the balloons grounded, but 3rd time's a charm! It was a beautiful morning and we had a grand ol' time. We left James and daddy home in bed and brought them breakfast. Fun way to start the day!

Happy 4th of July!

2010-07-06T12:05:00.000-07:00

My beautiful angel in her festive outfit.

Sydnie (4 1/2), Abi (3), Hallie (19 mos), Jed, and James (14 mos) on Juanita, the golf cart.

My tired babies!

What a fun holiday! I can't believe it's already July! On Sat. July 3, we played all day and actually had daddy with us! We ran errands, played at the Finlinson's, and had a BBQ with our friends. Then Jed went on a night 4-wheeler ride with his buddies while I took the kids to Provo to watch the fireworks (in the car). What an amazing weekend!

A Day at the Zoo

2010-07-06T11:55:00.000-07:00

Grandma Jayne, James, Abi, and Aunt Mckell

Kell, Abi, and James - they were both terrified of this tiger statue!

Abi's favorite part of the zoo! She rode an eagle and James a dolphin.

Abi and James cooling off in the water.

Last Monday, June 28, my mom and sister took the kids and I to Hogle Zoo. It was super fun! The kids were in heaven (as they are every year) with all the animals. It wasn't horribly hot, either. What a fun day!

Boating at Utah Lake

2010-07-06T11:42:00.001-07:00

Abigail, Uncle Austin, and James

Aunt Mckell and Abi (and Grandma)

James squealing with excitement! He loved it!

Me surfing.

A few weeks ago, while Jed was in school, I took the kids boating with my family. It was James's first time and he absolutely loved it! Abigail has been boating since she was born and she was scared, but she enjoyed it. I was a little rusty on the surfing. It took me awhile to get the hang of it. Plus the water was freezing!

Birthday Pictures

2010-07-06T11:32:00.001-07:00

I had their birthday pictures done a good 2 months ago and kept forgetting to put them on here. Beautiful, right?! I had my cousin, Whitney (of Whitney Jo Photography), do them and she is INCREDIBLE! Thanks again, Whit!

Visiting Kacey and Gavin

2010-06-27T19:19:00.000-07:00

Gavin, 18 mos, and James, 13 mos.

I moved! But still a cute pic of our kids!

Friday, June 18, we finally made the journey up to South Jordan to visit my old roommate, Kacey. I hadn't seen her or her adorable boy, Gavin, in a year! James is as big as Gavin. :) We had fun and finally got to see her cute house. Kacey is due in Jan. with baby #2 and I'm way excited - though she was miserably nauseous when we visited. Poor Kacey. Thanks for a fun day!

Playing at the Mayberry's

2010-06-27T19:10:00.000-07:00

James in the warm puddle on the tarp.

Abi, Zoey, and James playing in the water. What a fun pool!

My beautiful, bikini babe!

On Tues, June15, Lindsey invited us over to her house to let the kids play in their kiddie pool. It was the cure to a hot day! The kids had a blast! Thanks, guys!

Brimhall Family Get-Together

2010-06-27T18:59:00.000-07:00

The kids: Kaylee, Alyssa, Sydnie, James, Alan, Hallie, Brock, Justin, and Abigail.

Uncle Brig and Aunt Elaina throwing Abi in a blanket. How fun!

Hallie in the sand.

Sydnie.

James and Abi playing so cute together.

Monday, June 14, we went to Jed's Uncle Cliff's for a yummy burrito dinner. We enjoyed the beautiful weather. Jed had family up from Cali and some visiting before they moved to Germany, so it was fun to see everyone! They had a sand box and my kids were in HEAVEN! They were covered head to toe, but they had blast!

Art City Days Fireworks

2010-06-27T18:57:00.000-07:00

For the first time since we've been married, we bundled up and went to the high school to watch the fireworks. James loved it! Abigail was way nervous and sat in the car - just like her mom did when she was little! Seriously. I love them now, but I was terrified when I was her age. Funny.

Art City Days Parade 2010

2010-06-12T13:08:00.000-07:00

Abigail and my Aunt Barbara's dog, Sugar.

James ready for the parade to start.

Zoey Mayberry and Abigail enjoying the parade.

Art City Days are one of my favorite weeks of the whole year! As you can tell from my blog overload, we've been busy, busy. Today was the parade and it was the first one I can remember being cold and rainy. It was still a grand ol' time. The kids loved it and it was fun to see the fam. The Mayberrys came and sat with us, too. I thought it would be the first year Jed would attend, but he ended up being stuck at the Fireman's Breakfast cooking and cleaning up. Still a fun day!

Chuck E Cheese

2010-06-12T13:04:00.000-07:00

James and cousin, Hallie, with a big cheeser.

Abigail on a silly ride.

Jed's uncle, Brig (who is just 1 yr older than us), his wife and 2 kids are in town for a few days before they get shipped to Germany for 3 years with the Air Force. So, we went to Chuck E Cheese. It's definitely not as fun as I remembered it. The kids were in heaven though and we did have a good time!

Summer in Utah...

2010-06-12T13:02:00.000-07:00

We had to wait this lovely thunderstorm out before we could venture out to the carnival. Seriously! Dime sized hail! And thankfully, it still stayed reasonably warm.

Art City Days Carnival

2010-06-12T12:56:00.000-07:00

Abi and her favorite ride! We went to the carnival on Thurs. June 10.

Mom and James. His first time and he loved it!

Abi on the train. The kid loves rides.

Driving the monster truck.

Abigail the Cheerleader!

2010-06-12T12:49:00.000-07:00

Our little star and her daddy.

Abi doing her dance. She's in the middle and back.

Signature 3 year old dance move. :)

Abigail was so thrilled to have her cousin, Sydnie, come watch her perform!

This year Abigail was old enough to do the SHS Jr. Cheer Clinic. She loved it! She did good in all the practices (up until the last one - it's kind of a lot for these little girls) and then had a nervous breakdown before the performance. I had no expectations since I really thought she wouldn't even go out there, let alone do the dance. She bawled literally till she walked out there with her group and then did AWESOME! I was so proud of her! My little girl is so grown-up!

Fire Department Parade and BBQ

2010-06-12T12:30:00.000-07:00

James, Firefigher dad, and Abigail on the big truck.

Abigail, Zoey Mayberry, James, and me.

A small portion of the trucks in the parade. It was so fun!

Seth, Lindsey, Zoey, and Sawyer Mayberry at the parade.

Tate Nielson, Zoey, and Abigail.

That late afternoon, after the dedication, the fire department hosted a parade and BBQ. It was so much fun! They invited other departments from the area and it was fun to see who came to support us! There were trucks from: Spanish Fork, Mapleton, Genola, Lehi, Provo, Utah County, and Pleasant Grove even brought their huge tiller (1 of 3 in the whole state!). They didn't shut down main street to have it, so it was also entertaining to see everyone on the road panicking at the sound of all the horns and sirens! The BBQ was yummy, too. What an amazing opportunity and answer to my prayers to have Jed on this wonderful department!

Fire Department 100th Anniversary

2010-06-12T12:22:00.000-07:00

Our amazing fireman standing at attention during the ceremony. Jed is on the very end.

The unveiling of the new statue they dedicated for the anniversary.

Hank Clinton, the new fire chief who we absolutely love!

The statue artist, Kathy, with the fire crew and the statue.

My hubby with the statue "Everyday Hero." I'm so proud of you, honey!

We had to hurry home from the 5K to quickly get ready and be to this statue dedication. We were a couple minutes late - which is why Jed is last in line. What a neat thing to be a part of!

Art City Days 5K

2010-06-12T12:09:00.000-07:00

Last Saturday, June 5, Jed and I did the Nestle 5K. I'm so not in shape, but had my friend, Becky walk with me while our hubbies ran with the fire and ambulance crew. I LOVED IT! We walked fast and I felt so good after! They have a raffle after with the coolest prizes - some people do the race just to be entered in it. We didn't win anything, but still had a great time! And yeah, I don't know why my camera doesn't flip the pictures!

Camping on Memorial Day Weekend

2010-06-12T11:53:00.000-07:00

Abigail, Hallie, and James playing in Sydnie's Jeep. We're so grateful she brought it. My kids lived in it!

Our awesome camper, plus some of our group: Grandpa Scott, Kim Carter, Jeddy, Chad, Gina, and Josh Ross.

We couldn't find affordable ATV helmets, so we got the kids bike helmets. Better than nothing, right? Abi in her Dora helmet.

Daddy and James coming back from a ride. The kids LOVE the four-wheeler!

James, of course, loved getting dirty. The kids were in heaven! Yummy licorice!

We went camping with Jed's family Sat. May 29 - Sun. May 30 at Cherry Creek. We had a BLAST! It was James's first time camping and he loved it - just not sleeping in the camper. He didn't hardly sleep at all. Thankfully, his sister slept like a log! Next time, we're leaving him home!

Loving the Warm Weather!

2010-06-12T11:50:00.000-07:00

Abi and James; Zoey and Sawyer

A few weeks ago, while it was still warm, we loved visiting different parks! This day we joined the Mayberrys at the Spring Creek Park up the street. Funny kids!

Abi's Birthday Party

2010-06-12T11:40:00.000-07:00

Andie Garner and Abi finding a different use for the game I put together.

James's turn!

Mollie and Tate Nielson, Sydnie Shepherd, Jackson Marvin, and Abigail ready for cupcakes and ice cream.

Andie, Mollie, Tate, Kaysia Pratt, Hallie Shepherd, Jakelle and Jackson Marvin, Abigail, and Mylee York digging in.

We threw Abigail a fun 3rd birthday party on Sat. May 22. It was a Tinkerbell party and I think it turned out ok. The kids seemed to have a good time and thanks to all who came: The Yorks, Marvins, Mayberrys, Shepherds, Pratts, Garners, and Nielsons! We love you guys!

Abigail's 3rd Birthday!

2010-05-19T12:36:00.000-07:00

It was Abigail's 3rd Birthday yesterday, May 18. I can't believe my little girl is 3! She had to wait for daddy to get home from work to open presents, but I did let her open one outfit that morning.

We went up to my parents' house for a hamburger at 5. They gave her a cute Princess bike that she LOVES! Uncle Jay gave her a cute Dora doll that she shoved in the front bag.

She wanted a Cheerleader Bear cake (It was one of the options on the ballerina bear pan). I did the Springville colors and it turned out way cute.

Jed didn't get home till 6, so he came up to my parents for dinner and then we came back and finally let her open the gifts from us.

She's wanted a vacuum for forever, so we finally got her a cute Snow White one. Spoiled girl. It was a surprise and she was ecstatic!

Living Planet Aquarium - Abi's Birthday

2010-05-19T12:28:00.000-07:00

Abigail and Zoey on a giant frog. Abi was terrified of it.

Abi, Zoey, and the cool jellyfish.

Sawyer, Zoey, James, and Abi in front of the sting ray pool.

Abi and the penguin exhibit.

Yesterday for Abigail's birthday, Lindsey Mayberry and I took our kids up to the Living Planet Aquarium in Sandy. The kids had a great time! Abigail was in heaven! There were a zillion people there, but it does have some neat animals. What a fun day!

EMS Conference in St. George

2010-05-19T12:12:00.000-07:00

Abigail and Zoey at the pool.

Exhausted James at Nielsen's Custard after a long day of playing.

Abi at the Coral Canyon Park.

Abi in her new jammies. They didn't make them in James's size, but I'm sure glad I got them for her cause she looks adorable.

Sawyer, Seth, James, and Jed in the hot tub.

Last Thurs. May 13 - Sat. May 15, we went down to St. George for the EMS (Emergency Medical Services) conference. We took our friends, The Mayberry's (Seth, Lindsey, Zoey, and Sawyer) down with us cause Seth and Jed serve on the ambulance together. It was such a blast! We got there late on Thurs. night. Then Linds and I played with the kids all day while the guys were at their conference. We were playing every second and had such a fun weekend. We got hoe Sat. evening. Thanks, Mayberrys!

Happy Birthday, Big James! You're 1!

2010-05-09T17:56:00.001-07:00

Abigail and the birthday boy with his presents.

James and the cool Mickey Mouse Clubhouse camp chair he got.

He also got a bubble machine. He's in heaven. He even started saying "Bub-o."

Abi and James with his gifts from the family.

James blowing out his candle!

My baby just turned 1 on May 6th! I can't believe it! He's so grown up. We had my family and Jed's family over for pizza, cake, and ice cream. Yes, I spent most of the day frosting that dog cake. Lots of work, but he loved it. Thanks to the fam, he got spoiled. Now he has some summer clothes. Yea! Happy Birthday, Angel!

Tulip Festival

2010-05-01T10:56:00.000-07:00

Last Monday, April 26, my mom took the kids and I to the Tulip Festival at Thanksgiving Point. It was an absolutely beautiful day! We got to enjoy the nice warm weather before the snow came back! Since we've had such ups and downs in the weather, the tulips weren't nearly as beautiful as they have been some years. Some hadn't bloomed and some were already wilting, but still, it was pretty. We had a fun day! (Sorry, I don't know how to rotate those last pics!)

Funny Kids

2010-04-24T13:57:00.000-07:00

Since James started walking, he's certainly had his share of bumps and bruises. On Sun. April 11, he fell and hit his face on my in-laws' brick mantle. This pic was the night it happened, so it looked worst the next day. The skid on his lip scabbed over and the red mark on his cheek turned black and blue. Thankfully, it's gone now.

Attack of the big sister! Seriously, this is what it's like for poor James 24/7.

Showing off their new jammies. Yes, I love Wal-mart's $5 pajamas!

Abi on the train at Provo Towne Center. She loves the little rides they have now. So fun!

Today. Abi thought it was about time for a picture!

Sunny St. George

2010-04-24T13:45:00.001-07:00

Kenz, Abigail, and Kell at the pool.

James in his big boy swimsuit, ready to swim!

James riding a horsey in the 78 degree weather.

James and Abi rockin' out.

Abigail and Shaylie

Over my sisters' spring break, my mom took them to St. George for the week. I drove down with the kids (yes, by myself) on Wed. April 7, and came home Fri. April, 9. It was such a nice trip! I got to get together with my friend, Emily, and attend the temple on Thurs. which was amazing! I haven't seen her in over 2 years! Then on Friday, we met her and her little girl, Shaylie (2 1/2 yrs old) at a fun park in Coral Canyon. Seriously, the park was awesome! It was such a nice, needed, little vacation!

Easter at the Great-Grandparents'

2010-04-13T13:57:00.000-07:00

The kids participating in yet another egg hunt.

Beautiful Abi.

James loving the eggs.

Jed's grandparents had an Easter dinner later on Easter Sunday. We had spent the day at my parents', but unfortunately didn't get any pics of that egg hunt. So, the kids did 5 egg hunts in 2 days! Pretty lucky kids! It was a fun weekend!

Easter Morning

2010-04-13T13:49:00.000-07:00

James found an egg.

Abi rounding up all the eggs.

The kids with their treasures.

James stuck in a bucket.

The Easter bunny came on Easter morning and went a little overboard with the eggs. :) The kids sure had fun, though. They each also got sunday clothes and movie. Kids make everything more fun!

Family Party at Aunt Lesa's

2010-04-13T13:35:00.000-07:00

Abigail picking up eggs. There were tons of eggs! Each kid had an overflowing basket!

James not quite understanding what's going on.

Abi on the horse, of course!

Me and James watching Abi on the horse. Chilly day!

James in the middle of a pile of empty eggs.

Last Saturday, April 3, at noon (after the Finlinson's), we went to my Aunt Lesa's for my family party. We ate lunch, had a HUGE egg hunt (they cover the horse field with eggs), rode the horse, and colored eggs. The kids were in heaven! What a fun and exhausting day!

Easter at the Finlinson's

2010-04-13T13:27:00.000-07:00

Abigail excited for the egg hunt!

Abigail and cousins, Sydnie (4), and Hallie (1 1/2) during the egg hunt.

Abi with the gift the Easter bunny brought her.

James and his gift.

The Finlinson's had us over for Easter on Saturday morning, April 3. They always make a delicious breakfast and have a fun egg hunt upstairs. Then we got to watch the first session of conference. It was a ton of fun!

Jed and the Jeep Safari in Moab

2010-04-05T10:45:00.000-07:00

Jed's little bro, Chad's Toyota they spent the last 3 weeks getting ready for this trip. They said it was awesome!

The train of vehicles in their group. It honestly sounded like a BLAST!

My dad in his Jeep. Jed said he's not even fun to watch cause his Jeep does everything effortlessly. :)

Last week, Jed went with his dad, his bro, and his bud, Dillon down to the Jeep Safari in Moab. They joined my dad and brothers and cousins. A group from H&R (our work) goes down every year. I really wanted to go this year, but for sure next year.

James is Walking!

2010-04-05T10:42:00.000-07:00

James took his first steps on March 8 (10 months old). Now he improves everyday and absolutely LOVES to walk! I can't believe it!

March Flew By!

2010-04-05T10:33:00.000-07:00

My dad had Row 23 tickets to the Jazz vs. Minnesota Timberwolves game on Wed. March 17 (which happens to be Kyle Korver's B-day, bytheway :) ) and let Jed and I go for Jed's b-day which was on the 26th. It was a BLAST and the Jazz kicked bum. Since it was St. Patty's day the team wore their green jerzies, they served green beer, and everyone wore green.

My mom gave Abi a haircut to try thicken it up a bit and this was the outcome. Beautiful girl! She looks so old!

I wanted to get a pic of James's big, front teeth. They're the cutest!

This is what happens when warm weather hits. Lots of bumps and bruises from the playground!

Two kids in a dryer!

Mylee's Birthday Party

2010-03-06T12:27:00.001-08:00

Abigail was the first kid on the horse, of course.

Standing on the fence watching the other kids.

Mom and James going for a ride.

Abigail and Mylee watching the dogs fetch the frisbee in the rain.

Mylee throwing the frisbee to the dogs.

On Thurs. March 4, I took the kids back up to Lesa's for Mylee's 2nd birthday party. They had sandwiches and let all the kids ride the horse. Thankfully, we beat the rain and snow storm! It turned out to be a beautiful afternoon. All the kids left and Abi, Mylee, and James watched their 2 big Wiemeriner's, Rudy and Chloe, fetch the frisbees. The kids had a BLAST! Thanks Lesa, John, Alex, Hollie, and Mylee!

Riding Horses at Aunt Lesa's

2010-03-06T12:18:00.001-08:00

Abi and cousin, Mylee feeding the horses

Mylee eating the apple we got out to feed the horses

Abigail riding Firetta. The kid has NO fear.

Abigail and James

Mom and James going for a ride. He loved it!

On Tues. March 2, my Aunt Lesa invited us up to ride the horses. The day was so nice - I could get used to the 50's. The kids had a BLAST! Thanks, Lesa!

My Daddy, The Hero

2010-03-06T12:10:00.000-08:00

Abigail and her new friend, Zoe.

Last Monday, March 1, for FHE we finally had daddy take us on a tour of the Fire Station. He's been a volunteer Firefigher for Springville since November, and has been on the ambulance since last June. Abigail was in heaven! We also became friends with the family of a guy Jed works with who have a little girl, Zoe, who's just a few months younger than Abi and a little boy, Sawyer, who's a couple months younger than James! Abigail already idolized her daddy, but this made it even better! She talks about it everyday and understands a tiny bit better when I say daddy had to go to "Fire work" or "ambulance work."

Little James Moments

2010-03-06T12:02:00.000-08:00

This is a hat my dad ("Boyd" is what's embroidered on the front) got this at the Seattle World Fair when he was 2 yrs. old. My Grandma kept everything. You can't see them, but the hat does have two teddy bear ears on the top.

Have you EVER seen a diaper wedgie?

Hilarious, right?!

He got a hold of Abigail's fruit snacks. He doesn't really like them so he'll suck on them and spit them out. He had a big, gooey one on his bum and then sat on this toy ice cream cone. I almost cried, I was laughing so hard!

His new hat. He was ornery in the picture, but he's actually really good to keep it on. Mostly cause we make a big deal, so he knows he looks handsome.

James's First Haircut

2010-03-06T11:51:00.000-08:00

Before

(it was really longer than it looked. Seriously, I received comments about constantly.)

After

His hair grows way faster than his sister's! We did this on Wed. Feb. 24.

Is Winter Over Yet?

2010-02-20T14:00:00.000-08:00

Standing up in his crib.

He found Abi's piece of toast - which she hadn't touched. This is what was left.

He's finally to the age where he loves Abi's shows. It helps mom a lot!

Abi so kindly put the sticker off her shirt in James's hair.

Our basketball star! He got this for Christmas and immediately could put the ball in the hoop. Now he can put it in the hole behind the hoop and loves to since we applaud. He also started throwing a ball then crawling to get it, then throwing it again, and fetching it. He'll go all over the room.

The last couple weeks since my last post have been miserable for my kids. Abigail got a horrible cough and raging fever two Weds ago, Feb. 10. I took her to the doctor on Fri. where he determined it was virus. She was so lathargic and miserable and wasn't getting better. Not to mention, I could tell James was getting it. I took them both in that Tues. and she had gotten an ear infection (first one EVER) and that's why she wasn't getting better. The next day, Wed, she was a new girl and almost back to her old self. James on the other hand was unbelievably miserable. He's still recovering. My poor kids. We're ready for the warm weather.

James has also reached some milestones this last couple weeks. I can't believe how fast he grows up! He can stand in his crib (see picture). He loves to clap and do "Pat-a-cake." He's said "momom" and "dadad" for a couple months now, but last week he started saying "Uh-Oh." I love it! He says it so cute! He also has become a little daredevil and has started standing up and letting go. He's able to stand on his own for quite awhile and has even taken a couple steps before sitting down. I'm not any too eager for my baby to walk even though it is exciting!

Abigail is still a huge pain, but she sure says the funniest things which is making me enjoy this age more. She is super sassy and says stuff like: "YOU'RE A MONSTER!!" When I took James's spoon out of her hand so she wouldn't get sick. Or when I gave her lots of kisses and she screamed. I said, "I'm just giving you kisses." To which she said, "Don't give me kisses EVER!"

She also knows how the game is played. When she gets in trouble, in the middle of her sobbing she'll say, "Mom, I love you so much!" Then I feel guilty even tho she was naughty! She's also very smart and remembers EVERYTHING she hears. Yesterday, she was looking out the window of the car and said, "Mom, what's that?" I said, "I don't know, sweetheart, what do you see?" She said, "It's a firefighter bug!" (Translation: Fire Bug. The confusion comes from daddy being a firefighter). Today, in the car I shivered and said, "Oo, it's chilly today." Abi responded, "It is chilly. Son of a Gun!" Thanks, Daddy.

Dino Museum

2010-02-20T13:56:00.001-08:00

On Saturday, Feb. 6, we took the kids to the Dinosaur Museum at Thanksgiving Point with our friends, The Marvins. It was super fun and the kids were in heaven. Here's little James.

Jakelle and Abigail playing in the sand.

Daddy and Abigail with the Tyrannosaurus Rex.

All 4 kids: James, Abigail, Jakelle, and Jackson (and Krystle).

Fun at the Park

2010-02-20T13:52:00.001-08:00

A couple weeks ago, when we got our first day in the 40's, I bundled the kids up and took them to our little playground. They loved it. It was nice to be outside and not cooped up in the house. We can't wait for spring!

He's Movin' on Up!!

2010-02-01T12:45:00.000-08:00

LOOK AT MY LITTLE BOY! I think I've got another climber on my hands. Abigail has always been the world's best climber, but now she's got competition. This was just last Thursday when I caught my little James ascending the stairs. I'm in trouble. Then on Friday, he wandered into the kitchen while I was doing dishes. I turned around to see him up on this Tupperware. Seriously - where does the time go?! He's not even 9 months yet!

Springville vs. Payson

2010-02-01T12:40:00.001-08:00

Mckenzee, James, Gina, Mckell, and Abigail.

Last Tuesday (Jan. 26) evening, Springville High played Payson High in Payson (basketball). I love the SHS vs PHS games cause I get to watch my sisters and my sister-in-law cheer. Mckenzee and Gina are both varsity captains on their squads. They are all graduating this year, so I'll be sad to not have a reason to attend all the sports events. It was a fairly close game, but Springville pulled away in the end to win.

Ready for Valentine's

2010-01-23T13:24:00.001-08:00

Grandma Jayne bought the kids these cute Valentine's Day

T-shirts. Abi had to put hers on when she woke up. Gees, I swear

it was barely Christmas.

Abi's says "Happy Valentine's Day" and

James's says "The Ladies Love Me."

Thanks Grandma!

My Sick Baby

2010-01-23T13:18:00.001-08:00

Last Sunday, Jan. 17, James came down with a fever. Abigail had had one just the day before, but it was just a 24 hr bug, so I thought that's what this was. He kept getting sicker and more miserable - plus he had a cold on top of it. Finally on Tuesday, I took him to the doctor cause he looked horrible. Turns out he had an ear infection! Poor baby! Abi never has had one so it was a new experience for me. These pictures are from Tuesday night when he was the most miserable. I normally can't get him to lie on the couch for even a second, but he was weak and very lathargic. He just wanted to be held. My poor little boy. Thankfully, he's finally on the mend, tho his ear still hurts a little.

St. George

2010-01-23T13:11:00.001-08:00

Me (scary), James, Abigail, and Grandpa in the hot tub.

My big boy James in the inside swimming pool.

Poor kid gets Abi's hand-me-down pink hippo.

With Grandpa's help, Abi towed James all the way around the pool -

quite a few times.

James in Uncle Austin's basketball shoes. He's ready to play!!

Last weekend, Jan. 15 - 17, the kids and I took a quick trip to St. George with my parents, Austin, and his g.f., Jacie. It was such a nice little vacation. Jed had to work on the ambulance, so we missed him a lot, but we still had a good time. I think Abi loves St. George more than I do, if possible!

Jumping Jacks

2010-01-23T13:03:00.000-08:00

Friday, Jan. 15, my neighbor invited us to go to Jumping Jacks.

We'd never been before and Abigail had a BLAST! She definitely

had to warm up first. I put her in this kiddie bounce house and

she FREAKED out! Once she got comfortable, she wasn't afraid of anything!

Abigail with her friend, Ella.

The biggest slide in the place. Abigail is the purple spot at the top of the ladder.

She went down the slide with no hesitation, but "hit her cheek" she said,

so she didn't want to go down it again.

This one, you have to climb up that tube, so I couldn't see her till she came out.

It made me nervous when the kids who went in after her came out before her.

I know she got trampled quite a bit, but never once cried or complained.

James is on the Move!!!

2010-01-09T11:32:00.001-08:00

My baby is crawling!!

Such a big stinkin' boy!

Already pulling himself up to standing position a day after he learned to crawl.

Abigail showing me she can do it, too. :)

That's right - James is crawling! I swear it is all going so fast! It was about 3 or 4 weeks ago he started going from sitting position to crawling position, but he'd just rock and sit back down. So, I knew it was coming soon. Last week he got his first tooth (Abi was 11 months when she got her first). This week, he learned to go from laying down to sitting up. A couple days later (on Jan. 6 - his 8 month birthday) he finally crawled (Abi was 9 1/2 months when she started). The next day, he was pulling himself up on everything - including the stairs. He thankfully hasn't gotten on the next stair, but he'll figure it out soon enough. He is just developing so fast! It makes me sad, but it's exciting, too! He's already getting into EVERYTHING - which also makes him a happy baby. Now that he can get back into the toy corner, him and Abi play for hours - which in turn makes mom happy. Messes definitely can be cleaned up!

Sledding at "Harder Hill"

2010-01-02T12:33:00.000-08:00

Yesterday, Jed and I brought Abigail to my parent's to sled across the street at the massive hill dubbed "Harder Hill" by the community. We got there before all the crowds. Seriously, sometimes my family can't even get into their driveway cause there's so many cars and people! It really is huge, but Abigail LOVED it! She wasn't the least bit scared and went down with dad till he got tired and then recruited Grandpa for awhile until too many people came to overtake it.

Christmas at the Finlinson's

2010-01-02T12:29:00.001-08:00

Abigail NOT being a good sharer.

James and the grandkids' keyboard.

Jed and Gina who was awake, I promise.

Since we spend Christmas Eve with my family, we spend Christmas Day with Jed's. They spoiled all of us and it was such a fun day! The kids love being able to spend the whole day with cousins, Sydnie and Hallie.

Christmas Morning

2010-01-02T12:27:00.001-08:00

We had a wonderful Christmas this year - even if Santa couldn't bring very much. The kids were so excited. I love being a mom!

Christmas Eve - Christmas Jammies

2010-01-02T12:23:00.000-08:00

Abi and Grandma showing off her new jammies.

Mom and Abigail helping James open his PJ's.

Bath Time!

This year we had the York's stay to open their jammies with us. Abigail got to help every single person and was in heaven. The kid loves to open presents. :)

Christmas Eve - Santa Clause is Here!

2010-01-02T12:17:00.001-08:00

My sweet boy! Not so much as a peep!

We were SO proud of Abigail! She is normally terrified of Santa, but she did great!

James with his gift from Santa. He was exhausted at this point.

Abigail showing Grandpa what Santa gave her.

Every year we have a family party at my parent's house with my mom's side of the fam on Christmas Eve. It's always a BLAST! We felt bad, though, cause since Jed's on the Fire Dept, they have a tradition, too. They have Santa ride on the fire engine to every firefighter's house and bring treats, but they were supposed to be to our house at the same time our Santa comes, so we had to cancel. We were bummed. The night was great anyway, though.

Christmas Eve - Nativity

2010-01-02T12:11:00.001-08:00

James (Baby Jesus) and our cute cousin,

Brinley (Mary), who was visiting from Cali

My little angel, Abigail, and her donkey :)

This year we had some extended family come in from other states so we had an abnormally large group of kids! It was so fun to have them here. We love doing the nativity, too.

Temple Square

2009-12-22T13:13:00.001-08:00

Jed, my mom, my dad, Abigail, and James in front of the temple.

Grandpa and James

Daddy and Abi

Last Saturday night, my parents took us up to see the lights at Temple Square. It's always been a family tradition to go every year, but life gets busy (especially at Christmas) so we haven't made it the last 2 years. Abigail loved it! James was an angel even though he hates his snow suit. He can't move in it. It reminds me of Christmas Story, "I can't put my arms down!":) There were a ton of people and it was freezing, but we had a blast. The inversion created a really thick fog that illuminated the temple, so it was absolutely gorgeous (which of course you can't see in the picture). Thanks Grandma and Grandpa!