McLaughlan's

Mylee wants to use the Potty

2011-06-15T12:20:00.002-06:00

I am such a horrible blogger....does anyone ever check this anymore? Well this is what Mylee has been up to-

So this past week I was getting things ready for a yard sale so I pulled out a lot of stuff from storage and one thing I pulled out was Austin's old potty chair. Mylee pointed to it and asked for it. I put it on the ground and she sat on it. So I sweetly told her no you have to have your diaper off if you want to use it. So I stripped her down and she sat on it, she was extremely happy. Since she was showing interest I thought I would she what she would do. So I put the potty in the bathroom sat her down on it and tried to explain things to her....of course only being 21 months old she just smiled and had no clue what I was saying - or so I thought. After about a half hour of getting on and off the potty I figured she just was playing so I put a pair of Austin's underwear on her and let her enjoy the potty chair. I had her sit on it every 15-20 mins and finally she did it! She went pee in her potty! I was so excited and VERY surprised. She was so obsessed with the chair she probably spent 2 hours in the bathroom.
That night I hid her potty chair (she has yet to ask for it) I was to busy with work and getting a yard sale together I didn't have the time to devote to training like Mylee needed. I know I am horrible but she is only 21-months right now. I think I will be pulling the chair back out next week and actually see what she will do.
Of course I snapped a few pictures of my baby girl...who is turning into a big girl on me. :(

I Heart My Kids

2011-05-19T23:41:00.003-06:00

I don't know if anyone even read this anymore, lol. I am a horrible blogger. I am going to blame it on being busy with my photography but that's only the start, my sweet kiddos keep my quite occupied as well.

I thought I would jump on here really quick and post some updated pictures I took of the kids last month. I really want to make a wall collage out of these but as you can tell I am occupied with many other things. I know I need to get my priorities straight because I LOVE these pictures!

Winter Blues....

2011-01-28T09:22:00.002-07:00

I have been the worst blogger lately. I still have stuff from October to post (plus Halloween, Thanksgiving, Christmas, and Vacation)...will I ever get around to posting them? Who knows. I am going to blame this lack of motivation on the "winter blues" I am dealing with. Going to California and spending 2 weeks in the sun was wonderful...and now that the vacation is over and we are back in the cold, I haven't felt like doing much of anything. January is kind of a depressing month (it is even worse as I get closer to 30). I am having a hard time getting anything done. Even going back to work is a struggle for me (even though I love what I do and I enjoy my photography). Even my kids are cranky! I wish it was warm so I could send them outside to play, and maybe I could have a clean house - for at least 10 minutes!

I think my attitude and depression would melt about if that darn SUN would shine (and the snow would vanish). I could do really well on the island of Kauai!

Am I the only one who feels this way?

SPRING PLEASE COME QUICK!

Christmas Morning 2010

2010-12-26T00:03:00.000-07:00

This Christmas was our first spent by ourselves. Aaron's family went to Neola to be with his sister so we just decided to stay home and do Christmas with just our little family. (not going to lie, I really had to talk Aaron into it, and he still is mad about it).

And our annual tradition of new PJ's on Christmas Eve:

I thought it was really funny that before Mylee opened her new PJ's I realized that she was wearing the same ones that we had gotten her last year. Yeap she is still in 3-6 month clothes. So I thought it would be fun to post last years picture and the one I took of her this year in the same PJs.....

Had to share this picture of Mylee playing with the tree ornaments.

And now for Christmas morning:

Aaron talking to his mom on the phone and thanking her for the gifts.

Our Christmas Card

2010-12-24T23:44:00.000-07:00

It's really hard to see since they are really small but I just had to throw it into our blog:

Annual Brendle Bowl-off

2010-12-21T00:20:00.000-07:00

This has become a fun tradition in my family. We usually try and do it Christmas Eve but with my sister living in Utah and spending most Christmas with Aaron's family we have to do it whenever it works for everyone. This year we did it the weekend before Christmas and held our little family Christmas then.

I am proud to say that Aaron and I won the bowl-off and took home the trophy this year. Yes there is a trophy (Aaron took an old bowling trophy from when he was a kid and turned it into the Brendle Bowl-off award. Yeah he's cool like that!)

The little boys loves playing on the games while we bowled.

Daddy helping Austin bowl

It was really fun this year watching the kids bowl and have fun at the bowling alley. It brought back a lot of memories for me. My dad actually owned Statelite Lanes when I was little (I remember cleaning it to earn an allowance) Dad sold it when I was in 1st grade. Funny thing is I don't think much has changed except the automatic scoring.

Had to post this picture of Mylee and Khloee admiring each others Gymboree outfits. :)

The Day-to-Day happenings...

2010-12-20T23:08:00.000-07:00

I just have a bunch of random pictures I thought I'd share from the past month:

I love having a girl I can get all dressed up and put pigtails in her hair.....Mylee doesn't like it so much. :)
It takes me a while to get her ready and only 2 seconds for Mylee to get her shoes off and hair pulled out. I still haven't found that other hair bow she pulled out.

Grandma Jan brought over some chocolates for Austin and Mylee...and Mylee really enjoyed it!

I have been really busy lately with my photography and so I have to spend most of my days editing. Basically I have to let the kids trash my office while I work so I can get stuff done. Well Mylee found my baby gift stash (I buy things like baby shoes and outfits to keep on hand for baby gifts)...she thought she hit the jackpot with all the cute baby shoes.

The kids LOVE bath time!

Enjoying some playtime with daddy (Mylee was a little scared - but Austin Loved it)

I was really worried about Austin's 2 back teeth, they looked like they are rotting (I was upset because we are pretty good about brushing his teeth) I took him into the dentist and he said they weren't rotting but they were just discolored. Most likely he said that Austin had a really high fever when he was cutting those teeth and so it caused them to look that way. But the dentist wasn't worried since they are just baby teeth. Austin did pretty well, I thought he would cry. He loved the Toy Story tooth brush he got.

Austin loves his trains, and he likes to make everything into a train. I thought it was really cute when he took his chairs and made his own little train for him and Mylee.

This little tool bench is what Austin got for Christmas last year, sad thing is I just barely opened it up so he could play with it....I know I am a bad mother.

Happy Turkey Day! 2010

2010-11-25T22:53:00.000-07:00

Just had to post some pics of the kids in their Thanksgiving outfits.
I made Mylee's little leg warmers, Love them! They matched her shirt so perfect, she is just so tiny that they are really baggy on her.

Fall

2010-11-19T22:45:00.000-07:00

I love how we cut down of our trees in our front yard, but we end up with everyone leaves in our front yard. :p

Guess I should be happy it kept the kids entertained this afternoon.

Let them be Little....

2010-11-14T02:17:00.001-07:00

I don't even know how to start this post....you would think I am pregnant because I am so emotional right now (FYI - I am not pregnant) - I think it's just because I have had a rough day today and I am very sleep deprived. But I felt a strong need to get on our family blog and do a quick post.

My session I had scheduled for tonight totally bailed on me so I decided to dress up my cute kiddos and take them to the alleyway when Aaron got off work so I could do my annual photo. Don't know if anyone remembers but I take a specific picture every year, and I had yet to take one this year.

Here is the very first one I took: This is 2 years ago (I wanna cry, look at how little Austin is)

This one was taken last year right before Mylee was born: I love how Austin is looking up at Aaron

And this one way taken tonight:

And because I am so emotional I am totally in tears right now- I can't believe how fast my babies are growing up. I don't want them to grow up. I just want them to stay little.

This just reminds me of one of my favorite songs:

Let Them Be Little
(Billy Dean)

I can remember when you fit in the palm of my hand
Felt so good in it, no bigger than a minute
How it amazes me, you're changing with every blink
Faster than a flower blooms they grow up all too soon

So let them be little 'cause they're only that way for a while
Give them hope, give them praise, give them love every day
Let them cry, let them giggle, let them sleep in the middle
Oh just let them be little

I've never felt so much in one little tender touch
I live for those kisses, prayers and your wishes
Now that you're teaching me things only a child can see
Every night while we're on our knees all I ask is please

Let them be little 'cause they're only that way for a while
Give them hope, give them praise, give them love every day
Let them cry, let them giggle, let them sleep in the middle
Oh just let them be little

So innocent, a precious soul, you turn around
It's time to let them go

So let them be little 'cause they're only that way for a while
Give them hope, give them praise, give them love every day
Let them cry, let them giggle, let them sleep in the middle
Oh just let them be little

Let them be little

Yes I am still crying...actually bawling my eyes out right now. I love that song, it is exactly how I am feeling right now.

I don't want Austin to grow up because he probably won't let his mommy give him kisses all day long.
And I don't want Mylee to grow up because she probably won't give me her amazing, heartfelt hugs every 5 minutes.
I love their giggles, and their innocent smiles.
I love tucking them in bed, I love waking up to their morning chats over the baby monitor.
I love hearing their bare feet run across the wood floor as they chase each other while squealing!
I love that they still need me around.
And most of all I love that they love me unconditionally! :)

I am so very bless to be their mommy, I can't believe Heavenly Father picked me to raise these two AMAZING spirits. I am lucky!

Family Portraits 2010

2010-11-11T10:45:00.007-07:00

Wow....I am falling so far behind on my blogging. I lost my computer for week because of a virus and so I got far behind in my work so all of my personal things got put on hold - which includes this blog. I just wanted to hurry and post our family pictures we got done last week. My wonderful friend and fellow photog (Jennifer Hill) was sweet enough to take these for me, my kids were horrible during the session and we only got a few smiles so I have been trying to photoshop to get a picture of everyone smiling. If you want a glimpse into what a real session is like with my kids check out this blog post I put on my photo website. So thanks Jenni for being so understanding and patient with my kiddos! :)

Now that I have them edited I need help trying to pick one out for our Christmas Card:

Which one is your favorite????

Halloween 2010

2010-11-01T22:36:00.000-06:00

So I tried to get a cute picture of Mylee and Austin together in their cute pebbles and bam-bam costumes and this is how they acted....

So being frustrated and not wanting to do it myself, I hurried and packed them up and went to The Photography Boutique and I am sooooo happy I did. This is the first picture of my kids where they are both looking at the camera and no one is crying, lol. (No one is smiling but I don't care.) Thanks to Harmony.

We also did our annual pumpkin carving at the Gillins house...

And a big thanks to my mother who helped me make Mylee and Austin's costumes this year.

Pumpkin Patch

2010-10-18T23:01:00.004-06:00

I have been so busy lately with sessions and editing I haven't had much time for anything else. I am so behind on our family blog. I pretty much have had a session every evening for the past few weeks and will continue to have a session every night (besides a few days off) up until Halloween. I love it and I really enjoy my work but October is my favorite month and I never feel like I really get to enjoy it because I am always so busy with my photography. This year I am smart enough to take the whole month of December off so I can enjoy the season with my family...but who knows I am such a people pleaser and I can never tell people no.

With my crazy busy schedule at night I was worried we weren't going to be able to take the kiddos to the pumpkin patch this year. Our first open night wouldn't of been until the 22nd and I was afraid all the good pumpkins would be gone by than. But lucky us I had a someone cancel their session so we packed up the kiddos, picked up my mom, and headed to Shoemakers pumpkin patch. We have done this the past 3 years. Usually we take Danee (aaron's sister) but she wasn't able to go that night and I couldn't go any other time so this was our first year without Danee...but we still enjoyed our little outing!

Mylee loved playing in the mud and Austin was picking out all of the big pumpkins! I just loved spending some quality time with my little family! :)

Playdate with Grandma

2010-10-18T22:52:00.003-06:00

The weather has been so WONDERFUL the past few weeks! I love, love, LOVE fall! We have been taking advantage of the perfect weather as much as we can lately. Austin has loved playing in the backyard while Aaron builds a shed. I really am dreading the snow that I know will probably start falling on Halloween. But if the snow could stay away until Thanksgiving it would be wonderful (I have many sessions to photograph. I hate rescheduling.) Anyways the kids even played out in the water last week when it was in the high 70's - I figured I'd let them play one last time.
Anyways last week my mom surprised me and the kids during the day and took us to Jensen's Grove for an hour to run around and play. It was so nice to let Mylee just run - and she LOVED it! Austin just threw rocks in the water, Grandma tried to teach him how to skip rocks.

Softball Season is done...

2010-10-08T14:21:00.004-06:00

So this summer was the first summer I have played softball in 5 years...just seems like I have been pregnant or with a newborn for the past 3 years so I wasn't interested.

I was so nervous about playing since I hadn't been on a field in years and obviously I was WAY out of shape.

But an old college team mate asked me to play on her team and I decided it was now or never! I am so glad I did. The women’s season was a little rough to start out with - first game I pulled my hamstring and had many bruises by the end of the game LOL but oddly enough I liked it! :) I played catcher (which I was happy about since I was so rusty and the oldest one on the team - yeah most of the team was about 20). We ended up taking 4th in the tournament.

While I did women’s Aaron played men’s league. He had a rough season trying to get dependable people to play. But I think he enjoyed it. We were lucky enough that our games weren't at the same time (most of the time) so we could shift the kids back and forth - they spent a lot of time at the fields this summer. Austin LOVES "beball".

But the best part of softball season this year was co-ed.

Aaron and I were lucky enough to get to play together and help put together a team (thanks a million to his parents who helped out SOOOOO much with the kids - we are very lucky!). I was a little afraid to play on the same team as my husband but glad I did - he was wonderful! I actually felt like I could handle playing in the in field again and I got to play my old base again - 3rd! :) I loved it by the end of the season....even though it is frustrating that I am no where near the skill level I was once at! My reflexes are so slow now, LOL!

Anyways I had to throw a little post in here about our softball seasons since that is where we always were in the evenings....

OH and we didn't place in the co-ed tournament but we did pretty good we were about 50-50 for the season and the same in tournament play, hopefully next year we can have a more reliable team (we always had to find subs, the teammates that were always there were so fun to play with!!!).

We really enjoyed playing! And it's good to be out doing things again, LOL sometimes being a stay at home mom gets to you and you don't do anything for yourself. It was nice to be doing something that's fun and active for myself again!

Jackson Hole 2010

2010-10-04T17:22:00.004-06:00

I can't believe our annual Brendle family Jackson Hole trip is already over. We look forward to it all year and it just doesn't seem long enough. Well it is only 2 days so it is really short. Every year we go to Jackson Hole with my family and stay at a condo for conference weekend. This year Aaron decided to do a golf tournment the same weekend so I took the kids by myself. They were so well behaved I lucked out! :)

here are some photos from the trip:

Austin's first elk experience

I think my dad likes Mylee :)

My silly kiddos

Mylee and Kaidence - Kaidence loved having Mylee around this year

and Mylee LOVED having Kaidence carry her everywhere.

Me and my kiddos after lunch

Love this little cutie

My little cheeseball

Austin and Mylee with Grandma and Grandpa Brendle

They look so sweet and innocent - wish they would do this for me during portrait photos!

I posted more photos from Jackson here on my photo blog if you want to check them out.

No longer a baby

2010-09-30T13:48:00.000-06:00

My baby girl isn't a baby anymore. She had her one year check-up and shots, her new stats are:

16 lbs. 6 ounces and 28 inches
(that's were Austin was when he was about 4 months old LOL)

This puts her between percentile 10 and 25 for height

and below percentile 5 for weight.

She is a tiny thing. The doctor showed a little concern about her growth pattern and I have to take her in every month and get her weighed. Which amazes me because she is such a good eater! She LOVES food!

Other things she loves are:
-Stuffed Animals
-playing with Austin
-drinking out of a straw
-her bottle (I am going to have a hard time with this)
-baths
-walking (which is turning into running)
-chew on toothbrushes
-Likes to play fetch - this is pretty cute.
-Climbing stairs

Things she doesn't like:
-bows in her hair
-car seat
-being told "no"
-when you take ANYTHING away from her
-doesn't like to travel
-Doesn't like sleeping anywhere BUT her crib

She still doesn't talk and that worries me. She will say da da and ma ma once and a while but for the most part she is just quiet and content.
She likes sippy cups but prefers her bottle.
She is still in size 2 diapers.
Wears size 3 shoes now
Is in size 6-9 clothes (I still have a lot of 3-6 clothes she wears).
We finally took her out of her infant car carrier and bought her a car seat...she looks so small in it.
Still only has 2 teeth. Her upper two have been swollen for like 2 months but have yet to break the gums.
Well that's a little update on out little girl! She is such a blessing to us and we LOVE her to death!

Of course what's an update without some pictures, these are from the past month:

Enjoying her sippy

We are finally starting to put her in a high chair...it's a funny sight. You can't even see her feet because she is so tiny! But I think she likes it!

Climbing the stairs

loving grown up food!

She LOVES her mac n cheese!

I finished her 1-year portraits and I have more posted here on my photo blog if you want to see.

Mylee's 1st Birthday Bash

2010-09-29T13:06:00.000-06:00

Here are some pictures from Mylee's birthday bash last Saturday...

I had so much fun planning Mylee's party, some say I was a little over the top but I don't care I wanted to go all out for my baby girl.

To see more picture of the birthday bash details check out this post on my photo blog.

Time to reflect...

2010-09-25T03:43:00.002-06:00

As I sit here on my computer (at 3:45 a.m.) I am full of so much emotion!

Why you ask...well you see my baby girl just turned one!

It is truly a bitter-sweet moment for me. This year has gone by so fast. I no longer have a baby. My baby is stepping into her Toddler years and it is bringing me to tears. Mylee has been such a wonderful baby (even if she didn't sleep through the night until she was 10-months-old). I am very sad she isn’t my baby anymore but I am also very excited to see her discover new things and watch little personality grow.

When Austin was a baby I was full of so much love and I always wondered if I could possibly have any room left to love another child. Then the day came when Mylee was born, she looked up at me with those baby blue eyes and my heart magically grew. She has been such a blessing to me. I can't believe Heavenly Father has trusted me with such a sweet and precious spirit. She may only be one, and a tiny little thing, but she has an amazing presence. It's so hard to put into words, but all she does is give you that little innocent, two tooth grin and time just stops.

I've been told by many people that there is nothing like your first child...you have a special bond with the first child and no other child. I completely disagree! Yes I have a wonderful bond with Austin but I have a totally different bond with Mylee and neither is stronger than the other. I could never favor one over the other. My heart has magically grown to fit both of them in it! I can’t imagine a life without either one.

Who ever said, “being a mom is the greatest gift in the world" was right! Yes my photography means a lot to me and it's a passion of mine but I would give it up in a second if it came in the way of my children (which I have great admiration for a fellow photographer who did)! My kids have changed my life and made me more complete. I thank my father in heaven everyday for my little blessings. And how lucky am I to know that I get to spend eternity with the man I love and the kids I adore!

I think I am pretty lucky! :)

Little Miss Mylee I can't believe you are one! You are my little munchkin, I am so glad you picked us! You may be little but I can already tell you have greatness within you! You have a wonderful big brother who will protect you. A Daddy who is already wrapped around your finger. And a mommy who has been blessed by you!

Happy Birthday "My My" the world is a better place because of you!

We love you!

A Wonderful Opportunity

2010-09-20T21:04:00.000-06:00

I had the most wonderful opportunity this past Saturday! My cousin asked me to be her escort while she went through the Rexburg temple. I have never felt more honored! Jessie is an amazing example of courage, I admire her greatly for the decisions she had made in her life. She has never had support from her family in her decisions with the church, and I can't imagine how hard that must be (I was brought up in a very LDS home and was always supported in all of my church decisions). Jessie is strong and I am so very proud of her. It was fun to watch her go through the temple. One of my favorite parts was watching Shawn her husband hold her hand and look at her with such love, I admit I cried, they are so good for each other. I am so happy that she has a wonderful guy to take care of her. I actually hooked them up (believe me I wouldn't have set them up on a date if I didn't think Shawn was a good guy - I think I may have been a little over protective of my cousin at times, I always wanted what was best for her and sometimes my big mouth let people know that). I only arranged the blind date and they did the rest! :) I always thought Jessie deserved the best and I am so happy that they have each other! I always considered Jessie to be one of my best friends I guess I lucked out having such a fun cousin my age to hang out with growing up - we have some good times together.

Jessie asked me to take pictures of them at the temple. I wish we had more than 5 minutes to take them because the Rexburg temple is gorgeous and Jessie looked so cute!

But here are a few:

Fun with the kids....

2010-09-15T10:37:00.001-06:00

Here is some of the fun I have been having with the kids over the last month or so:

Austin had his first experience with the Ice Cream truck

Mylee was full of envy...

No worries she got her fare share,

but was mad when it was gone

So we gave her a cookies, it made her happy again!

Mylee finally got to meet her Aunt Chelsee

Austin being silly

When ever Austin eats Mylee whines for some food.

Here is Austin sharing his Mac n cheese.

I think secretly Austin loves having a sister...

I find him playing in her stuff all the time.

I just wish Mylee would keep her bows in like Austin does, LOL

And I wish she had his thick hair!

Mylee found Austin's left over fries

I found Austin passed out on the couch one day,

with a piece of pizza.

Some days they play great together!

Grandma Brendle with the kiddos.

E.I.S.F and Parade

2010-09-12T10:22:00.001-06:00

Another Fair has come and gone. This was Mylee's first fair and parade - she LOVED the food and the animals. Austin in still afraid of the animals.

Austin thinks he is an Artist!

2010-08-26T10:31:00.003-06:00

Remember how I said Austin Loves to color...well it used to be a good thing. He would sit at his table and color in his coloring books (which I loved because I actually got to get some work done while he was entertained)...well I guess he got bored of the books and thinks he is an artist now!

Last week I was so busy with editing that I just let the kids take over the house basically. I was in my office working and Austin came in and laid down by my chair I looked down and this is what I saw:

I laughed and said to myself "he is expressing his artistic side" and I took a picture and didn't think anything of it really.

Well about a half hour my mom stopped by and I went into the front room to answer the door, I went to sit on the couch and this is what I found:

Yeah his artistic expression wasn't so cute anymore!!!
Mom: "Why do you let him have a pen".
Me: "To color, he has never colored on anything besides paper!"
Mom: *amazed look on her face*
Me: "He has been coloring for months and has never done it anywhere before!"
Mom: "He is only 2, you shouldn't let him color!"

So I tried to clean it with the leather cleaner (which came with the couch) and it didn't budge! I didn't freak out because we bought the warranty...I pulled it out and the first thing it says they don't cover is, INK - are you kidding me! I was now mad, not at my son but at the stupid Furniture Row and their bogus warranty, which also doesn't cover stains, burns, rips, and a list of other things -so what DOES it cover!?!?!? I am still mad about it.
But thank goodness for Mr. Clean magic eraser it faded and mostly came off but now there is a litter color on my couch where I cleaned. *sigh* I know I have kids and I can't have nice things, blah,blah,blah! :)

I didn't get mad at Austin but I also couln't find the pen he used...
So the next day while I was working Mylee comes into my office
and low and behold Austin's artistic expression strikes again:

Mylee was ok with it...she loves when Austin wants to play with her!
By this time I was mad! He wouldn't tell me where the pen was, so he sat in timeout for a while. He still wouldn't tell me!

Finally when I was cleaning out their toy basket in the front room I found the pen!

And his artistic expression has stopped!

Good thing I took some pictures because now I laugh about it! :)

Little Mylee is now 11-Months-Old

2010-08-26T10:08:00.004-06:00

My baby girl is almost 1!!! This year has gone by way to fast! I am still having a hard time saying Mylee is 11-months because she is still so tiny. I put her on our scale and it says she is 14.3 lbs...and I just barely put her in size 2 diapers on Monday. And yes she is still in size 3-6 month clothes - BUT I did find out that she can fit into a size 6-9 in The Children's Place clothing! YAY! But all of those 12 month summer clothes I bought on clearance....she will never get to wear! :( I am just glad they were cheap!

Looks like we have another future golfer in the family!

Some things about Mylee:
-She is walking more and more everyday, actually likes to walk more than crawl now!
-Wants to eat whatever you are eating.
-Loves regular food...ok LOVES food period (it's a good thing she is small, that girl can eat!)
-Can drink out of a straw now.
-Waves
-LOVES water (which isn't anything new)
-Screams if you take anything away from her!
-Can finally put her hair in pigtails (they are tiny but it works).
-Still only has 2 teeth.
-Loves her bottle, can't figure out a sippy.
-Hates her carseat.
-Hates car rides over an hour.
-Takes a 1-3 hour nap almost everyday! :)
-Is sleeping through the night - unless she isn't at home in her crib.
-Loves her stuffed animals.
-Is starting to wear shoes. :)
-Still only says dada...she will say Mama once in a while.
-Likes to follow Austin around.

That's all I can think of. But I love my little Mylee so much. She has been such a wonderful baby...besides never sleeping through the night. She is so content and can entertain herself (or maybe it's Austin). She likes to give hugs and it makes me happy...not really a cuddler but will give you a hug and then be on her way! She's my little sweetie! We are so blessed to have her in our family!

OH and since she turned 11-months-old yesterday I finally sat her down and tried doing her 10-month pictures (I know I am horrible, I've been so busy with other sessions I kept putting it off). Well she didn't want anything to do with it. This is basically what the session was:

I am just happy I got this one. She looks so cute in this one. Love her blue eyes and I haven't even edited these yet!!!! :) Can't wait!

Lagoon

2010-08-25T09:56:00.000-06:00

This past weekend Aaron and the kids went to Lagoon with Aaron's family.

I got to stay home and get caught up on my editing (which I only got half way done)...but mainly I cleaned, it's so sad when I FINALLY had some time to myself all I did was clean - and I was excited about it!!! I know I am weird but you had no idea how bad my house was...ok the upstairs still is but the downstairs is clean it's NICE! Gross part was I think I killed a billion spiders while I was doing it. I put Home Defense all over after I was done cleaning. This is one of the first times spiders have been really bad at our house and it's because Gizmo our cat would always find them and play with them until they died...I really miss that cat! :(

But on a happier note here are some pics Aaron took of Austin at Lagoon...poor kid didn't look like he was having any fun - didn't smile in any!!

Aaron said that Austin found a little girlfriend while they were there...he wanted to go on every ride she went on. That's daddy's boy, already going after the girls! :)

Elder McLaughlan is HOME!

2010-08-16T12:04:00.005-06:00

This past weekend we spent celebrating...Aaron's little brother Jordan is home from his mission! :)

We picked him up from the SLC airport late Friday night and partied until late Sunday night. Our little family was so worn out that we slept in until 10 a.m. Sunday morning and almost missed Jordan's home coming!

It is so nice to have him back home. He sure has grown up! He has become a handsome young man...ladies he is single! But I am sure that won't last long! :)

Here are some pictures from the airport:

Austin and Jakson coloring a poster for Jordan

Keagan and KarLee waiting (and Mindee)

The proud Parents

first time Jordan saw Mylee...he was overwhelmed with two at once!

Austin was a little over 6 months when Jordan left.

The McLaughlan Family (minus Chelsee)

Mylee and Daddy

I wanted to post a couple of OLD pictures from when Aaron came home from his mission:

Many of you might not know but Aaron and I were high school sweethearts and we kept in contact when he went on a mission. I surprised him at the airport when he came home-

his face was priceless, he was so shocked.

Aaron and I October 2004 - 3 weeks later we were engaged

And we were married in December :)

We are Still Here...

2010-08-13T09:34:00.010-06:00

I promise we are still around...just busy as can be!!!

I love summer! So many things to do with the family! But I feel guilty for being gone every weekend and missing church for the past 2 months. We need to get better about this!

As you can tell I am REALLY behind on my bloggin! And the longer I neglect it the more pictures I take and the more I don't want to sit down and do it.

So here is a HUGE post of what has been going on the past month or so, plus a few things I haven't blogged about yet!

Enjoy!

OK this picture has a story:

You know the wall (in Utah) you pass on the interstate around Brigham City

that has all of the Return Missionary names on it?

Well we went down last weekend to go write Jordan's (Aaron's brother) name.

Well it didn't work out how we planned (and Jan even contacted the city).

The picture is of the guy that stopped us...it's a long story

and I don't feel like blogging about it right now

but this guy was a total jerk to us and the cop even tried to talk him into letting us do it.

We also went down to Hill AFB for my nephew Blake's baptism

and Khloee's birthday party. The picture below I had to post...

It is of my cute little nephew Kyler enjoy a big cupcake while

relaxing in Khloee's wagon - he is so much like his daddy (loves his sweets)

After the party my sister and I took Mylee and Khloee to get their ears pierced

The picture above is of Mylee getting ready. I felt so mean but she looks to cute!

The following pictures are from an afternoon of playing in the Sprinklers:

Austin is a good big brother when he wants to be
Mylee LOVES the water...a lot more than Austin does

After many crying attempts with his cousins this summer

Austin will FINALLY play in water!

Mylee, Brady, & Austin

Brady (Aaron's cousin) came to Blackfoot to spend the summer. Austin LOVED IT!

He liked hanging out with Brady, and Brady was really good with Austin and Mylee.

He left a couple of weeks ago and Austin misses him.

This picture was taken the day he left.

Mylee and KarLee hanging out at Grandpa Earl's house in Utah a few weekends ago

I know we should just move to Utah- we are there enough!

I had the opportunity of watching this cute little girl again.

Khloee came to stay with me for about a week while her family

went to a funeral in Illinois (Blake and Cade's mother past away)

And I was lucky enough to get to spend her birthday with her

we got her her own cake!

Here is what happens when your baby gets a hold of a scripture marking pencil

if the pencil gets wet it acts like a marker!!

Mylee and Daddy playing with legos after church one Sunday.

Austin LOVES to color!

Two days before Mylee turned 10=months-old she took her first steps

She was walking right after she turned 10 months

but now she prefers to crawl, it is much faster I guess!

Here is my silly little boy with his first camera,

it was so dang cute! He would tell me to say "Cheese"

OH and another thing I never blogged about that is a HUGE deal

Austin has been official potty trained for a while now

notice the cute little undies, he looks so cute in them!! :)

I am very proud of him!

I tried at the first of the summer and he did well for a few days

but I got peed on twice and I quit (I think if I would have held out longer

he would of had it down). I gave him a month rest and started again and he

did so well! We only had a few accidents (once he got locked outside

and the other I think he was to busy playing with his friends he just waited to long).

But I do still make him sleep in a diaper...but he is usually dry in the morning

so I don't think I will do that much longer!

Who said it's harder to potty train a boy!

My little boy is a big boy now!

Well I guess that catched you up on what's been going on with the Mc's...Oh wait Aaron and I we both playing softball (Aaron did mens and I did womens). My team took 3rd (should have been second or first). But we start our co-ed team on Monday (if they get enough players) I am so excited. Austin ask me everyday if I am playing be-ball (how he says baseball). It's cute, he loves the game maybe even more than golf now! :)

Which surprising enough Aaron has cut his golf game in half this year! Maybe because we are so darn busy!

4th of July Weekend

2010-07-07T09:33:00.004-06:00

Hope everyone had a wonderful 4th of July weekend...our little family did.

We left Saturday morning to Utah to hand out with my sister and her husband. Of course Aaron and Steve went golfing! So my sister, Cyndee, and I took the girls and went to Park City for some shopping! :) That night we had a BBQ and went and watched the fireworks. We had an amazing view (up on the hill Air force Base hill) we could see about 5 different cities firework shows!

The next morning Aaron, Mylee, and I headed to Bear Lake to go camp with Aaron's family. Austin was already there with Aaron's parents. We spent the day playing in the water (which was a little cold, but fun). Aaron and I took the jet skis out for a minute and ended up in the water! :)

I didn't take many pictures this weekend but I did take some of the kids playing at the beach:

Austin and Jakson playing in the sand

Aaron and Mylee playing in the water
Mylee LOVED the water!

So cute

Mylee loves her daddy!

Austin - not playing in the water!

Our baby Girl is 9-months-old

2010-06-28T13:39:00.005-06:00

8-months-old

I can't believe it! Last week our little Mylee turned 9-months-old!

I took her in today for her 9-month checkup and here are her stats:

Length= 26 inches which is in percentile 5
Weight= 15 pounds which is below percentile 5

Still tiny. Doctor doesn't seem to worried because she is growing but just at a slower rate. If she drops below her progress line, at all next checkup, he said they will have to run some test, but if she stays steady she will be fine...I'm not to worried because I think she is going through a growth spurt right now - she is eating a lot! :)

Here are some other things about Mylee:
-Still doesn't sleep through the night - usually wakes up 2 or 3 times.
-says "dada" all the time, no mama yet :(
-Can hold her balance while standing (without holding onto anything)
-crawls on all fours
-Still wearing 3-6 month clothes
-Still in size 1-2 size diapers
-Loves to eat what everyone else is eating
-Still only take a 4 oz. bottle at a feeding
-Loves to watch Toy Story 2 with Austin (I know I am horrible, I let her)
-No teeth yet
-Doesn't laugh much, except at Austin
-Is VERY tickleish (that's the only way I can get her to laugh)
-Is a very content baby.
-Still takes 2 (1/2-1hr) naps a day
-Has found her voice - likes to scream
-She likes to crawl up to me and climb all over me (but gives me a big hug while she does it).

We are really bless to have such a sweet baby girl! She has been such a wonderful addition to our family. I can't get over her beautiful blue eyes...which she got from her daddy (she looks so much like him). I can already tell she is going to be a daddy's girl.
Here are some pictures from the past couple months:

Daddy's girl

doesn't like the grass much - she trys to keep both legs up when she sits on it.

Asleep in her playstation...I know it's gross (after I saw the pictures I cleaned it really good) We have to feed her in this or her bumbo chair because she is to small for a high chair.

her 7-month collage

A little side note: While I waited for the doctore to come in (only 30 minutes) I measured Austin...fully dressed he weight: 31 lbs. 6 oz. and he is about 38 1/2 inches tall - he is such a big kid!!! If I did it right that puts him Length = above percentile 95 Weight = between percentile 50 and 75. I sure hope he stays tall! :)

Mylee & Khloee - Best Friends

2010-06-27T14:47:00.010-06:00

I had the chance to watch my cute little niece, Khloee this weekend while her parents went camping (after out last attempt to camp, I don't blame them for not wanting to take her). I was so excited to have her the whole weekend...than Aaron told me he was leaving for Montana and I would be all alone with the babies and a 2-year-old. I was still excited but a little nervous, until Jan (my wonderful mother-in-law) told me she was wanted to take Austin for the weekend while they went to a baseball tournment. I figured Austin would love to watch baseball all weekend and be with his grandparents so I said yes!

So it was going to be an all girl's weekend (I had my sister's dog Spice, too). :)

We had so much fun! It was so cute watching the girls play together. I had to run to the store Friday night and everyone thought they were twins...and I got a lot of, "oh cute!" comments!

Saturday night we painted toenails and watched Twilight (well the girls fell asleep and it was just Austin and I - he came home early).

Here are some pictures:

Khloee & Mylee playing outside

Thought this was so cute

They crawl the same
Getting into trouble together while I try to edit pictures

Khloee - who wouldn't love a face like that! :)

Playing in a bubble bath

I think Khloee likes her picture taken

As you can tell from the pictures the girls LOVE playing together! I am glad my sister trusted me with Khloee and I would take her again in a heartbeat! :) I just wish they lived closer to us (Utah isn't far but it's far enough I can't see this little sweetie everyday).

Thanks Cyndee for letting Mylee play with Khloee all weekend!! We miss her already!

Swimming Time

2010-06-25T14:38:00.000-06:00

My sister and her baby came of from Utah this week to spend some time with me and the kids (which I was very happy about since Aaron ended up leaving for Montana for a week).

We decided to set up Austin's baby pool from last year and let the kids play...well they didn't seem to interested in the baby pool and the setup process took longer than the actually play time! :)

Mylee

Khloee & Austin

Khloee

This is Mylee's new way to crawl....on all four!

We ended up taking the kiddos to Ross Park Pool the next day - forgot my camera so there isn't any pictures. We went with our sister-in-law, Danielle and her boys too. We had a lot of fun with them (it's a good thing Danielle brought her sister Sarah along...we were pretty outnumbered by the kids) :)

Take Me Out To The Ball Game...

2010-06-24T14:05:00.000-06:00

Monday was the Idaho Falls Chukars opening game and Aaron's parents have season tickets so they were nice enough to let us tag along! Even though the Chukars lost we still had fun and enjoyed the fireworks after the game!

Austin enjoyed being with his Grandparents and Mylee loved all the food! :) (it's amazing how more relaxed you are with your second kid...I would have never let Austin try all of this food before he was 1).

Austin & Grandpa

Mylee slept through the start of the game...so cute!

I think this little girl will have daddy wrapped around her finger! :)

Austin & Aaron

Mylee and Grandma

The Chukar mascot, Austin, and Aaron

(Austin wouldn't stop talking about the bird so Aaron took him to see it and he was scared)

If you can't tell Mylee is eating cotton candy with Grandma!

No Lions, No Tigers, 1 Bear???

2010-06-21T13:56:00.001-06:00

We decided to go check out the Pocatello Zoo for Father's Day (since I was doing a photo session at Ross Park already). It took us a total of about 30 minutes to walk the whole zoo...if you can even call it a "zoo"! What kind of zoo has NO lions, No tigers, and 1 bear?

We were all pretty disappointed...

Sorry for the lack of pictures....but there wasn't ANYTHING to photograph - oh wait there were some goats and a donkey!!! :)

The BIG 2-7!!!

2010-06-18T11:35:00.004-06:00

Thanks right Aaron is now 27! His birthday was yesterday and once again I can call him an "old fart" because he is older than me...but only for 6 more months! :)

For his birthday he wanted a baseball cake (I know I was shocked - no golf?), so this is what I made for him:

He has been asking for a basketball hoop for a year now...so I went together with his parents and we got him one. I am sure I will be posting pics later (along with the home improvements we have been doing and his "man-cave" I have yet to share).

Hope everyone is enjoying their summer (well 2 days of sunshine isn't really a summer but I'll take what I can get!) :)

"Lions and Tigers and Bears"

2010-06-15T10:20:00.000-06:00

"Oh my!"

We decided since our camping trip got ruined that we would take the kids to the Tautphaus Park Zoo in Idaho Falls. It's no San Diego zoo but it was kind of nice to see the whole place within an hour!

Austin's favorite part was the Lions. He got all excited and yelled, "Simba!" - his new favorite movie is The Lion King...so every Lion was Simba.

Mylee's favorite was the little monkeys - she sat up in the stroller, got wide-eyed and just grinned at them (pretty cute). She also liked the penguins.
Here are some pics:

"Simba!"

Mylee checking out the monkeys

Austin and Mylee

Looking at the penguins

Austin cried and cried to go see this guy and when we went to see him he wouldn't even touch him, he was scared of him. My son is a little weenie! :) Aaron had to force Austin to touch him!

12 hr. Camping

2010-06-14T09:43:00.002-06:00

Yeap that's right we took a camping trip and it only lasted 12 hours. I think it took me longer to pack! :)

My Grandma planned this fun family camping trip this past weekend and we were all excited to go. We (Me, Aaron, Austin, Mylee, my sister Cyndee, her husband Steve, and daughter Khloee) borrowed the in-laws motor home and jet skis and packed for a 3 days of fun....well after a crappy nights sleep and horrible weather we packed up and headed for home after only 12 hours. We figured it wouldn't be to fun with 3 babies and 4 adults stuck all day in the motor home :( I was bummed! I did get a few pictures from the one night we did camp (if you can call it camping).

Mylee on the ride there

Austin being Daddy's Co-pilot

The best part of camping (S'mores)

Austin wanted nothing to do with them

he just wanted to eat the chocolate.

Khloee liked the Crackers.

My sister Cyndee roastin the mallows

Khloee and Mylee - so cute!

Trying to get 3 kids to sleep while we tried to play card games.

Didn't work - we ended up quiting the game and going to bed.

We didn't even get to see the rest of my mom's side of the family that showed up on Saturday.

Hopefully next time the trip will be a sucess!

A Fun Memorial Weekend

2010-06-01T09:56:00.001-06:00

This past weekend we went and spent time with my sister and her family down in Utah. Boy did we have tons of fun!!

We got there Friday afternoon so Aaron and Steve (brother-in-law) could do some golfing. Cyndee and I (with the two babies and Austin) made a trip to Hobby Lobby (Love that place).

That night we spent at a school function for the boys (Blake and Cade)...The kids played on some big blowup and then had a fun performance at the end. Austin had so much fun going down the big slide with Cade. He also discovered he likes playground slides (he hated them last year).

Mylee likes to swing

Mylee also likes playing with her cousin Khloee

Austin enjoyed hanging out with the boys.

Saturday Aaron and Steve took the kids and Cyndee and I got to go to Park City...KIDLESS! We haven't done that in a couple of years, it was WONDERFUL! :)

That night we took the kids to Chuck E. Cheese...I had never been before. I think I was more excited than the kids!

Sunday we spent the day at Lagoon...

Mylee's very first ride and she LOVED it!

Austin got to ride a couple of kiddie rides and liked it.

We are so glad that Cyndee invited us down for the weekend,

we really had a blast with her and the family!

When we went to park city we bought the girls matching outfits.

We had some looks and a couple people ask if they were twins.

This is a picture I took on the ride home. Mylee was being so good (she usually HATES car rides). I looked back and this is why....

She has gotten in the diaper bag and pulled out the Twizzlers! She was one happy girl!

We had a wonderful weekend!!! I wish Cyndee and Steve lived closer...I am going to cry when Steve gets transferred (he serves in the Air Force).

A big thank you to him for serving our country!

What's going at our house?

2010-05-14T19:37:00.005-06:00

Nothing really exciting has happend lately to blog about...we are just trying to get over the wonderful bug that has been lurking in our house the past couple weeks (again!). I have some recent pictures to share though:

I don't think I ever posted that little miss Mylee is a crawler? Well she has been crawling for the past month now - she used to do a funny little army crawl but now is on all fours and cruises! I love the picture below because it's her evil little grin!

Usually Mylee throws a holy fit when she wants out of her activity station but this day she just quietly fell asleep, it was really cute!

A couple weeks ago we had a few restless nights since the kiddos and I were so sick. So they took a few good naps during the day. Funny thing is they never fall asleep at the same time! And in both of these picture Mylee fell asleep while trying to crawl somewhere. :)

We have been trying very hard to fatten Mylee up since she is still wearing 0-3 months clothes :)
So daddy decided to give her a Twinkie the other day...

She was excited to try it...

At first she wasn't sure about it...

So daddy had her try it again...

She decided it wasn't that bad...

She was glad she tried it!

Older Pictures

2010-05-14T19:20:00.005-06:00

I haven't been the best blogger the past couple of months. I have a few pictures from Feb & March of Austin that I never posted so I thought I'd throw them in here...

Austin and Katreena eating grapes and watching CARS...Katreena is Austin's little girlfriend who used to live a few houses down - we sure do miss seeing her cute little face!

Austin loves to dump out his blocks...most the time he doesn't even play with them - just likes to make a mess! :)

Here is a little story to go with these two pictures. I had to make like 60 cupcakes for Enrichment night and I caught Austin eating one...And I found two other wrapers on the couch!

He is a sneaky little monkey!

Austin went through this little phase where when he wanted to eat he would go in the kitchen, get into the draw and pull out all of his spoons and put them on his high chair.

This picture doesn't show anything but I still put the start there so people wouldn't think I was posting bad pictures :)

Shortly after Austin turned 2 we decided to make an attempt at potty training him. I was surprised how well he did. He almost went two full days with no accidents...but I knew it was to good to be true - he lost interest and after a day of being peed on twice I put him back in diapers. He still has no interest in the potty! :(

Saying Goodbye to a family member

2010-04-27T11:28:00.012-06:00

I had a really tough weekend with Gizmo missing...but Monday was the worst!

Just so everyone knows - you can stop looking for our cat, we found him...usually this would be a happy thing to say but it's not.

After spending 2 days praying and looking for Gizmo he finally showed up Monday afternoon. I had just gotten home from searching out a cat (my wonderful neighbor and friend thought might be him) who was hiding in a drain down the street. I had a feeling to go into the backyard before I went back into the house. I went to search out something I saw earlier that morning. I saw one of our black labs laying by something outside on the grass, it looked gray and I just figured it was the golf towel they had been playing with the past week. But when I went to check the figure I found my beloved "ki-ki" lying motionless on the ground.

My heart broke and I began to cry. My first thought was the dogs killed him...but after my mother and mother-in-law showed up we decided it wasn't them. He didn't look like he had been played with or chewed on at all...and there was only a tini, tiny trace of blood but none on the ground. My father showed up to wrap Gizmo in a blanket and put him in a box for me. My mother buried him in her backyard (since we have dogs that like to dig). I will be planting some flowers on top to remember him by.

I have gone over every possible thing that could have happend to him...and I still have no clue - I will never know. Aaron thinks he might have gotten into something like anti-freeze and he came home and died. But who knows. We really don't think it was the dogs. When I found him he was laying perfect on his side, like he just laid down and passed away.

So as you can see yesterday was a tough day for me.

Many of you are probably thinking...wow, it's just a cat? But Gizmo wasn't. He was part of our family. Aaron brought him home for me on our first Valentine's Day right after we were married. I remember being so mad at him because we weren't allowed to have pets in our apartment. But I fell in love with him right away! He was the cutest kitten! So playful and loveable! He loved to chase bouncy balls and would play fetch.

Our friend Brandon was the one who came up with the name Gizmo...

As you can see it was very fitting. When we first got Gizmo he had a problem with stepping in his own poop when he was in the cat liter so we would have to bath him a lot. (he learned not to step in his poop quickly because he didn't like the baths) When he was wet he looked like a Gremlin...and when he was dry he looked like Gizmo the cute fuzzy Gremlin. I never really called him Gizmo...I would always call him, "Ki-Ki" don't know why but it was my little nickname I called him by - and he would always come running with his little bell ringing as he ran towards me. :)

He was such a great cat so loveable! He even sat with me on the couch and put his head on my belly when I was having my contractions while pregnant with Austin.

He was very curious when we brought Austin home...

They quickly became buddies! Sometimes Austin would love on Gizmo to much but Gizmo never hurt Austin. They discovered so much together....

And they played well together...

Gizmo even taught Austin how to climb up the stairs. Gizmo would run up the stairs so Austin could get him - until the day Austin followed him up!

When Austin started to talk he couldn't say Gizmo so he would call him, "ki-ki" like I did when I would calling for him. He keeps saying, "ki-ki go bye-bye"...breaks my heart!

I don't have any pictures with Mylee but she loved that cat as well...I think he was the reason she started crawling. She couldn't wait to get her hands on him. She would lay on the ground and watch his every move, just smiling and laughing at him. One day she just started to pull herself towards him.

We will all miss him dearly!!!!

I know you are in a better place "ki-ki" but I just want you to know we love you and miss you! You were my first baby! :) The part I will miss the most is how you would cuddle up and sleep by my side EVERY night....sometime you'd try to sleep on my face. :) Things won't be the same without you here.

Saying goodbye to a family member, even if it was a cat, is never easy...

WE LOVE YOU "KI-KI"

MISSING

2010-04-25T09:31:00.005-06:00

Missing Please help!

We have lost out black and white Tuxedo cat answers to "ki ki" or "Gizmo" He is 5 years old and very friendly...he took his collar off last week so he won't have any i.d. :( Please let us know if you see if or have him! 243-3027. As you can see he is a big part of our family so please keep a look out for him. Austin misses his "ki ki"!

More Cakes

2010-04-21T13:18:00.003-06:00

Thought I'd share a couple of cakes I made last week:

This one was for a girl turning 10 who wanted a zebra cake with hot pink flowers

And this was for a "cake-smash" session

My family blog is starting to look like my cake blog...maybe I should have a blog just for my cakes? I think I have to many blogs as it is....What do you think?

I just realized I never posted this cake from a "cake-smash" session I did a month ago

Easter Time

2010-04-05T19:26:00.010-06:00

I had some sessions this weekend so I left my studio set up and I threw the kids in their Easter clothes and tried to get a cute pics of them together...yeap another attempt...failed! :) Austin just wanted candy and Mylee wasn't quite awake from her nap.

The dress Mylee is wearing is very special. My mother's best friend, Laura Yates, made me this dress before she passed away (which was before I was even married). When I found out I was having a girl I was so excited because I wanted my girl to be blessed in this dress...but Mylee came along and she was so small - it completely drowned her. So I saved it for Easter and I was so happy it fit her. I will now put the dress away until Mylee has a baby girl of her own.

Austin Loves his PEZ

Mylee and her new sandles that don't fit (her feet are to skinny!)

Aaron modeling his Easter present:

a new bat, ball, and PEZ (I know where Austin gets his love from)

My Easter strawberries

The cake I made for my nephew Jaxon

his birthday was Saturday

and he LOVES Spongebob
(FYI: Wal-Mart doesn't carry Spongebob toys - go figure)

I spent all night Saturday searching for some figures for his cake

I finally found some at Toys-R-Us

Jaxon the newest 2-year-old in the family

Bowen and Austin during the egg hunt at my parents house

Mylee enjoying some eggs

I think she liked her first Easter!

Today I decided to let her try a peep

And I think she liked it

What's not to like, right?

She takes after her mom and her sweet-tooth.

Austin didn't care to much about the peeps,

just like his dad!

Hope Everyone had a fun Easter!

6-months Already?

2010-03-27T11:19:00.012-06:00

I have been working on this post for over a week now so some things are old news now :)

That's right, little miss Mylee is now 6-months-old!! Crazy, Crazy!
At her check up this week her stats were:

weight: 11 lbs. 9 oz.
height: 24 Inches

So she is still in the 3 percentile for both...so she is growing, she is just small! She is still in 0-3 month clothes (I am forcing her to wear 3-6 months now). She is still in siz 1 diapers, and size 1 shoes.

She may be small but that isn't keeping her from trying to crawl! Since she has been feeling better she has LOVED her tummy time! She will lay on her belly and swim. She gets on her knees and hands sometimes...but can't figure out how to move forward - so she ends up rolling all over and scooting until she gets where she wants to go! I don't want her to crawl but she is very getting close!

I have had the hardest time getting her to eat her baby food. I don't think she likes the texture...or taste, she always acts like she is gaging. I laid off trying for a while since she was sick and the past few days I have been working really hard to get her to eat - ANYTHING. And finally after opening and trying the 10th babyfood jar she decided she could choke down Blueberries mixed with apples (which is funny because that was Austin's fav!). I am praying that since she is starting to eat the babyfood it will help her sleep through the night!

I have had the hardest time getting her to sleep through the night. She has decided that she wants to wake up every 2-3 hours...starts to really take a toll on mommy after 6 months. She did sleep through the night when we were in Hawaii and for a few weeks after we got home - sure wish we could go back right now!!! :) But she was nursing a lot in Hawaii that's probably why!

I stopped nursing her after she turned 5-months, she has done very well on formula, and it's nice not to be so attached :) to her! I just worry because I can hardley ever get her to eat more than 2-3 oz of formula at a feeding.

But I guess I should worry about how much she eats if she acts full and is active, right? She has been hitting her milestone and she is very strong for how little she is. I just get frustrated because I waste so much formula because she just snacks!

She likes to blow little spit bubbles and make little motor noises (so cute) and she is doing the dadada speech and I ever caught her doing mamama the other day :) hopefully she says mama first! Oh and she is already a wonderful fit thrower! She can throw her whole body back and screams loud while kicking her legs...isn't that nice! :) I am already afraid of her terrible twos!!!

Well that's a big update on little miss Mylee
Even with the fits I love her and she is so fun to have around. We are all bless!
Here are a few pics from the last month or so:

Looks like she is going to keep her pretty blue eyes :)

In her jumper

looking in the mirror

Loves her tummy time!

Even falls asleep while playing

Here she is playing with her cousin Khloee!

St. Patty's Day

2010-03-22T14:39:00.002-06:00

Thought I might finally post some pics from St. Patricks Day...

Little Miss Mylee in the bow and shirt I made her

Mylee & Austin in their green outfits

The yummy mint chocolates I made...
I had to give them to the Hill family or I would of ate all of them!!!

Hope everyone had a fun day like we did!!

Makes Me Happy....

2010-03-18T18:40:00.006-06:00

So here is another cake I make...this one was for a photography session I had yesterday of a sweet little 1-year-old!

To see pictures from my "cake-smash" session go to my Photography website or click here for the direct link. Let me know what you think...any ideas to make it better?

My little 2-Year-Old

2010-03-09T14:52:00.018-07:00

Austin turned two last month and I just realized that I didn't do a post (besides his parties) for him turning two.

Im not going to lie, the day he turned two is the day he became, "terrible" (I didn't think it was going to happen to him because he is such a fun kid but it did) He started his "terrible twos" on his birthday. He is still fun to be around and he has his sweet moments but I can't believe some of the fits he throws! I know it could be worse so I should just be thankful...I guess.

Anyways at his 2-year check up his stats were:

Weight: 27 lbs.
Height: 35 inches

I think he lost some weight from being sick. And it seems like his height is at a stand still. Instead of being in the 90th percentile for height he is now in the 50th - 75th. And in weight he is 25th-50th. I guess he is almost average now - doesn't look like it, now I am starting to think they measured him wrong? Oh he still looks like he is 3-years-old to most people.

He is starting to become independent.

-likes to go to the fridge and get his own food and drinks.
-tries to dress himself and comb his hair.
-still likes to brush his teeth which is funny to watch.
-talks a lot unless he is around someone he is unsure of, he won't talk at all.
-still treats every ball like a golf ball, and every stick or long object as a golf club.
-likes to watch movies now (well only a hand full keep his attention).
-always wants his papa or mama (Grandpa Dan and Grandma Jan).
-LOVES his fruits, and still eats baby veggies
-still loves his "b" (binky) but we have made progress.
-loves trains..."choo choos"
-always wants to hang out with the guys in the, "man cave"
-likes to sing in the car when dad sings.
-has been trying to change his own diaper (working on the potty training for this reason)
-has been caught trying to change Mylee's diaper.
-counts to 5...but won't say 1.
-likes to hold or lay by Mylee.
-still likes to give hugs and kisses. (my fav.)

He is so fun to be around when he isn't throwing fits. We have been playing with the whole potty training thing...not really trying hard but talking to him about it, so we are going to stay home this weekend and see if we can actually have a real try at it. I would love to not change his diaper anymore...the kid can poop! :) And as I said before, he has tried to change his own diaper which was poopy so you can see why we want to do this so early.

I still haven't been able to do his 2-year portraits since it is so cold outside so I don't have any cute pictures of my little 2-year-old but here are some snap shots of him...being him!

Austin golfing in dads "man cave" he putts right handed...drives left handed...throws a ball right handed It will be interesting to see which becomes his Dominate hand

Austin with his bear and "b"

he has been sick a lot this past month so I let him have his "b" a lot

but for the last 4 days now he hasn't had it during the day...

hopefully he is getting over the binkie!

This is Austin's favorite foods oranges, bananas, grapes, and cookies :)

He also likes Pizza.

Here is a funny picture of him when he fell asleep while eating lunch

He loves his "choo-choo" from his mama (Grandma Jan)

He also likes his train from his cousin Bowen (just don't have a pic)

one day I came upstairs and found this:

Austin eating jello on the kitchen floor

(yes that is my nasty kitchen floor, one day it will be replaced)

(you can tell by the ice chunk the jello was pushed to the back of the fridge)

One day I found him eating a bag of cookies
He can get to anything!

The kid makes me smile! I can't believe he is already 2!!! Just seems like yesterday I was rocking him and singing him to sleep...

Austin at a few weeks old

I Love you little buddy...stop growing up so fast!!

Obsession Continues

2010-03-01T01:32:00.003-07:00

Well I am still Obsessed and I love it! I know many of you come to the blog to check on the family and what we are up to - not my baking Obsession but I just wanted to share with you 2 more cakes I have made this week...

For my sister-in-law Danee (turned 17)

Jenny G. wanted to learn how to do fondant so we did this one together.

This one has a little story behind it. I got a text on Tuesday asking me if I make cakes now...which I had to laugh out loud since the first cake I ever made was a little over a week ago! So the texting continued and I decided to give it a try for someone else and I am so happy I did!

I think it turned out cute. It was for a little girl turning one (thanks for having faith in me Jenny P. hoped she like it!)

I can't wait to do a cake that isn't zebra stripes - even though I totally love them and I think they are way cute! I just need an excuse to make a cake! :)

And of course I had some left over fondant flowers so I made these little cookies.

I am having a lot of fun!!!

I have a new obsession

2010-02-19T15:25:00.000-07:00

That's right I am OBSESSED!!!! I LOVE to decorate cakes!

And I am so proud of myself because I have wanted to learn how to decorate with fondant for the past year and so I finally just jumped right in and taught myself!

It is SOOOOOooooo much FUN!

I thought I would share with everyone my little cake designs I have done in the past two weeks:

Austin's "Cars" birthday cake

And here are the matching cupcakes (02 is for him turning 2)

And here is a little zebra cake I made for my cousin Jessie's birthday

It is tons of fun...and needless to say, my diet isn't going so well! :)

Austin's 2nd Birthday Party

2010-02-17T15:09:00.000-07:00

This year we did a little get together with our family and close friends for Austin's 2nd birthday. We did a cars theme this year and I made a special cars cake (all by myself). And it seems like it was all for NOTHIN' The little turkey cried the whole time. He is in the stage of not taking naps - unless we are driving. So Sunday when we had his party he hadn't had a nap all day and I think he was sleepy. He cried at his cake, he cried at his presents, and he cried when he was playing - so finally after 2 hours I just put him in his crib and he cried himself to sleep. It was a disaster, but nice to see the family and friends.

Here are a few pictures:

I think his cousin Khloee enjoyed his cake and ice cream

Randee and Mylee

Two is better than one!

2010-02-16T16:26:00.003-07:00

(I have been horrible about my blogging! We just have so much going on with these two little cuties in our lives! I have been busy today trying to catch up so there are many back post that I just posted! )

I sure do LOVE my kiddos...and they LOVE each other!

Austin loves to give Mylee kisses. And when ever Mylee sees Austin she gets a huge open mouth smile on her face! I love watching them together. Austin even entertained Mylee for me while I got some photo editing done yesterday - it was wonderful, she just sat in her little chair and watched him play for like 30 minutes straight (no crying). I just hope they stay close and are friends.

They are two of a kind

This was so cute...a few days ago when I was doing laundry Austin threw Mylee's blanket into one of the baskets and said "Mylee" my first thought was, NO WAY! But then I decided to see how this would play out...so I put Mylee in the basket and told Austin to be careful! He pushed her around and she just smiled.

Best Buddies

Austin loves so be next to her.

I don't know why I ever worried about having two and close together! I wouldn't change a thing!

I love you two!!

Happy Valentine's Day

2010-02-13T17:10:00.000-07:00

or maybe not so happy...

I just love it when people say, "oh your kids are so wonderful when it comes to pictures"... I usually just smile and say thanks while inside I am laughing! My kids are not wonderful, not even close! I just never post the horrible pictures, and I have to work REALLY HARD just to get decent pictures! So I thought I'd post this to prove a point. I tried so hard to get BOTH of my kids happy in the same picture, I even paid a professional photographer and it still didn't work out!

For those of you who think my kids are "wonderful" think again! :)

Birthday Boy

2010-02-10T22:18:00.000-07:00

My little boy turned 2 today!!!

Just wanted to post a few pictures from his birthday dinner! We decided to go check out Blastoff in Idaho Falls and we had a lot of fun!

Austin got a cool "choo-choo" from "mama & papa"

Grandma Jan had to drag him into the tubes...until he finally enjoyed them
Aaron & Dan had fun being kids...didn't last long, the work out was to much!
And what's a good time with out a little golf

Austin was pretty good at the "feed Bertha?" game

He loved the car game!

He was cute on the "Spider Stomp"

He joined in on the SkeeBall fun...but didn't get why people were throwing them underhanded - so he tried a couple over handed :) So he had to quit that game...

He quickly found the ball pit and started throwing those!

As you can see Austin had a wonderful birthday dinner at blastoff!

My little 4-month-old

2010-02-10T13:58:00.000-07:00

Mylee is now 4 months (well 4 1/2 - Im a little late with the post)
She is still tiny. We had her check-up last week and she weighed in at a whoppin'

10 lbs. 3 oz. - (5 percentile)
23 inches - (5 -10 percentile)

I finally put away her Newborn clothes last month and she is now in size 1 diapers!
I am a little worried she won't be able to fit into her winter clothes that are 3-6 months since she is still in her 0-3 months clothes. She is still in her bassinet (we are afraid she will never get sleep if we put her in her crib, since Austin and her share a room and Austin always wakes up in the middle of the night screaming). She is still at about 3 - 3 1/2 oz. per feeding (I am still nursing but I am now trying to supplament her with a little formula). The doctor didn't seem worried about her weight at all. It is so weird having a baby in the 5-10 percentile when your used to your kid being in the 50% for weight and 90% for height!

I have been trying to get her to eat cereal

(she can't quite figure out how to keep it in her mouth)
and I don't know if she likes it very much!

She looks like a little baby bird wanting a worm!

She always has her mouth wide open!

She finally fits into her cute little Vans shoes (thanks Aunt Danee) which are size 1.

Any time you try and lay her on her back, she flips right over on her belly.

I think she loves her tummy time, she is even trying to scoot.

I think she is done with her bouncy chair.

Anytime I put her in it 5 seconds later...

She looks like this!!!

Here are a couple of portraits from her 4 month collage (I haven't gotten around to designing yet). These are the cute ones I didn't put on my photo blog that I wanted to share.

Look what Mylee did today!

2010-02-09T15:18:00.000-07:00

Yeap that's right she sat up by herself...only for a minutes or so but it was so cute! I think she likes her pictures taken too! Makes me want to cry though...she is already out of the Newborn stage! :(

New Years Resolutions

2010-02-05T12:05:00.000-07:00

Yeah I know I am a month late! I guess I should have "no procrastination" as one of my resolutions! :)

To me it seems like it's the start of the new year because we were on vacation for so long and having everyone sick it's taken me a while to get back into the swing of things! But I wanted to post a little list of my personal Resolutions because if I don't I don't have to answer to them at the end of the year! :) So here goes:

1. Not be pregnant! :) this to me is a big one since it feels like I have been pregnant for the past three years...well I actually have- I got pregnant with Austin in May of 2007-Feb 2008 and I was pregnant with Mylee Dec 2008 - Sept 2009! Crazy I know, I think it's time for a break - my body could use it!!

2. Lose weight As I have already stated I have been pregnant for ever and I desperately need to lose some baggage here!

3. Get Organized and be a better Housewife I am the first to admit I am not the best housewife! I feel like a tornado has blown right through my house and I can never seem to find anything when I need it and I am always tearing apart the house to find something! And as far as cooking goes...sloppy joes is a delicacy at our house!

4. Play with my Kids I spend most of my days trying to get stuff done that I don't really spend a lot of time playing with my kids. I need to sit and read with Austin - he wants nothing to do with books and it's my fault for not taking time and sitting down with him.

5. Take some Time outs for Me this sounds so selfish of me but I feel like I have let me self go...being a mother and wife can totally consume who you are (don't get me wrong I LOVE my kids to death and I love being able to stay home and raise them) I used to be out going and active. I'm not going to lie I think I may have gotten a little depressed and I need some be time once and a while to get recharged. This will also include improving my photography. I am going to take some time and get my home studio up and going!

OK so now that I have it in down and it is public I guess I better get a move on things!!! :)
(of course the dieting will have to wait until after Valentine's Day...I am making some yummy treats!)

A House full of Sickness

2010-02-03T15:15:00.011-07:00

Yeap that's right we are all sick again (well Aaron isn't YET). The past few days have been a little rough around here. Austin started not feeling well Thursday night and it really hit him Saturday night. I started with a soar throat on Friday and it hit me Sunday morning. And the past few days it has gotten to Mylee...so I am sure Aaron is next!

I don't think I have ever done this much laundry in my life - between the throwing up and diarrhea Austin's whole crib has been washed about 3 times in 2 days. Mylee was the first to throw up in it (I put her in Austin's crib Saturday night while I put away clothes and cleaned). She did fall asleep in it first and she looked so cute I had to take a picture:

Once I got it all cleaned up and finally put back together, Austin threw up in it.

Last night was horrible. Mylee is so congested that she couldn't sleep unless I held her up and the humidifier was hitting her. So needless to say I didn't sleep. This is seriously how the night went.

11:00 Mylee feel asleep nursing so I put her to bed.
11:30 Mylee woke up crying...nursed her back to sleep
12:00 Mylee woke up crying...held her by the humidifier tell she fell asleep
12:15 woke up crying again...did humidifier again until asleep put her in her boopy pillow to sleep
2:30 woke up crying...nursed her to sleep put her in her boppy pillow
3:00ish Austin woke up crying - Throw up and diarrhea EVERYWHERE
(put him in our bed while I cleaned up the mess)
3:40 I finally get back into bed.
6:00 Mylee wakes up to nurse again...falls asleep by humidifier.

And I had to make many trips to the bathroom just for my coughing attacks (I didn't want to wake the baby so I would have to sneak into the bathroom to cough up a lung! :)

***A King size bed sure does come in handy when you have to have the whole family sleeping in it! Oh and Gizmo (our cat) even cuddled up to Austin for a little bit.

And after the horrible night I had to take the kids to their check-ups (Austin's 2-year and Mylee's 4 month) and right after they both got shots - yeah I feel like a mean mommy. But we did get some antibiotics for Austin so lets hope we can kick this little bug that has been in our house the past week!

***I will be doing a post later of the kids' new stats - lets just say Austin is still huge and Mylee is still tiny!

Since this was such a downer of a post I thought I'd throw in these cute pictures of Austin and Mylee playing.

He loves to build

She is a pretty happy baby when she is not hungry...

and she always has her hand in her mouth!

I AM SO READY FOR SPRING! ANYONE ELSE?

Wow I actually got a post done and completed in one sitting - that's because Austin is taking a good nap and Mylee is nursing - AGAIN! :)

Rolling Over

2010-01-31T11:35:00.003-07:00

I have been such a horrible blogger lately! Austin and I are sick and the whole family stayed home from church today so I figured I'd jump on really quick and do a little post.

Mylee's 3 month Portraits

Little miss Mylee is getting stronger everyday...but it seems like she isn't growing much. She rolled over for the first time Jan. 15th and hasn't stopped since! It's amazing how you kids reach their milestones at different times. Austin was rolling over at 2 months, Mylee was 4 months (maybe it's because I didn't do much tummy time with Mylee and I never made her work at it...I don't want her moblie yet). At 4 months Austin was sitting up on his own. I don't think Mylee will be doing that anytime soon. It's just so different having a small baby.

here are some pictures of her first roll...

Our little boy will be 2-years-old next months - CRAZY!

Well that's what has been going on at the Mc Household...oh and Aaron has been working day and night to get his, "MAN CAVE" done. I will post pictures when it is done

Kauai

2010-01-15T16:11:00.011-07:00

I know it's been a while since I posted...but we've been having so much fun!!!

Once again I don't have a traveling camera so I had to steal my mother-in-laws pictures from our trip to Kauai! There were so many pictures and way to many to post so I just picked the ones that shows what we did and the really cute ones of my kiddos!

Enjoy!

Mylee on her first Plane - she was wonderful!!

This is what greeted us when we got to the Condos

So you can understand how huge he was he is at the

bottom of an ice bucket. We had about 6 of these.

Plus a few cute geekos (which we didn't get pics of)

Here is the whole group on the Beach lookin all tan!

OK so there are Tons of photos I wanted to share but finally decided to do some collages to make it a shorter post...

1. Austin didn't like the sand at first

2. He hated it more when Aaron buried him

3. But when he buried KarLee and Keagan he liked it

4. Austin and Aaron makeing a sand castle

1. Brent, Aaron, & Danee Boogie Boarding

2. Aaron pulling KarLee & Keagan on the boards while Austin chases them

3. Dan with his Surfboard

4. Austin sporting his pink binkie and goggles

1. Waimea Canyon (Hawaii's Grand Canyon)

2. Opaekaa Falls

3. Wailua Falls

4. Kilauea Point

Every beach was gorgeous, sun up to sun down - everyday!!

Austin and Grandpa - Austin never wanted to leave his side
unless he was playing with KarLee & Keagan

Spending the day at the pool with the kiddos...

He really loves his little sister!

The happiest baby - Jakson

Checkin out the ocean with daddy

Mylee and her cousin Jakson

Mylee and her first time on the beach

she liked it better than Austin!

When I heard we were going to Kauai for the family trip I was so excited! Last time we went to Hawaii it was on the cruise and we only spent one day on Kauai. I always wanted to go back because it was so beautiful! By far the most beautiful place I have ever been to! I feel so lucky to have married into such a wonderful family who loves to travel like I do. We had so much fun, as you can tell by the pictures! The beaches were heavenly and the sights were paradise! I can't thank my in-laws enough for making it possible for the whole family to go, we enjoyed spending the time with everyone...and of course Austin loved spending every second he could with his cousins! This was a much needed vacation!

It was nice to relax and just do whatever we wanted! We spent most of our time on the beach soaking up the sun. When we weren't tanning we were building sand castles, boogie boarding, surfing, snorkeling, and swimming. One of the funnest things we got to do (which I have no pictures of yet) is whale watching. It was mating season for the humpback whales and we took a boat tour and saw tons of whales. It was amazing and so beautiful. They put a microphone under water and you could hear them talking, it was really neat! We also saw dolphins and turtles.

Nights were usually spent sitting around the table playing cards and eating Jan's homemade carmel popcorn - it is delicious!!! (I know I gained about 10 lbs. this trip, I think everyone did).

Mylee even gained some weight...she would have to - I swear I nursed her every 2 hours!! One thing is for sure, I will never go on vacation when I am nursing a baby again!!! I just have a hard time doing it in front of other people...so Mylee and I did spend some time in our room - where I watch Ghost Hunters (tv show).

Well that pretty much sums up our Kauai trip - it was Heavenly!!

Las Vegas

2010-01-15T15:47:00.007-07:00

Went we got back into Las Vegas from Kauai we decided to stay a few days since we were already there. We stayed on the strip and just enjoyed the sights.

We got the chance to see the World's Largest Classic Car Showroom, it was really neat and amazing to see how much some of the cars were worth!

Mylee

My favorite was this old 1958 Beardmore Taxi Cab

It was only worth $14,500 but It was really cute!

These were probably the most rare and worth the most in the whole showroom

1960 Rolls Royce Phantom V James Young Coupe

They were the only 2 built

each worth $1,500,000

And here is Austin falling asleep while he eats his fries.

As you can tell we had a WONDERFUL vacation!!!

Christmas in Utah

2009-12-25T14:30:00.001-07:00

Christmas Day Was spent with the McLaughlan Family. We woke up and opened presents...

Jan got the family boogie boards and snorkeling gear for Hawaii. Aaron's favorite gift from his mom was the TV series: Everybody Loves Raymond & King of Queens. My favorite gift was a sewing machine (thanks a million Jan) what I have wanted for a long time - now I just have to learn how to use it! Austin and Mylee got some cute clothes. But the present we all look forward to it the McLaughlan annual Christmas trip!!! This year it was Hawaii! :)

Mylee and Grandma Dodie

I hope no one is offended by this picture but I had to post it...

Let me explain first before you think it's a nude shot -

Jan bought Aaron and Brent Spedoes for the trip as a joke

But the joke was on her when they decided to actually model them

I censored them out because I don't think they would appreciate me

posting it on the web!

The early the next morning we drove to Las Vegas to catch our plane to Hawaii!

Christmas Eve & Brendle Bowl-off

2009-12-24T13:59:00.002-07:00

Christmas Eve was when we let the kids open their presents from us since we would be in Utah for Christmas...

Austin got a tool bench and cars - he loves his cars

There wasn't much to get Mylee besides clothes since she was 3-months-old on Christmas. She did get a little play center for when she is 6-months and a book.

The first Annual Christmas Eve Brendle Family Bowl-off

Aaron helping Austin bowl

Bowen really got into it

Danielle helping Kyler bowl

Steve helping Khloee bowl

After we let the little kids take a few turns it was down to business for the adults. Each couple was their own team...Besides my mom and brother James (I think it's was an unfair matchup since the are the ones that bowl the most and are the best). It wasn't much of a surprise that they won but since they weren't technically a couple team it's only fair to say that Aaron and I won the bowl-off :) I am so glad we started this tradition it was a lot of fun!

After the Bowl-off we went to my parents house and did our gift exchange.

Here is Austin and Mylee in their new PJs

It was funny because Austin was only 22 months old and I had to buy him 4T

and Mylee was 3-months (so I bought 3-6 months) and her PJs drowned her.

I had to throw in this picture of Mylee and my dad - it was so cute she fell asleep in his arms.

After we left my parents house we finished packing and headed to Utah.

2-month Collage

2009-12-21T14:36:00.003-07:00

Well since Mylee is going to be 3-months-old on Christmas I thought I'l post her 2-month collage. :) I know I was lucky I even got the pictures taken in time!

I wanted to do her 2-month collage with her in her blessing dress which my mom made and the blessing blanket she is laying on was made by my mother-in-law. Oh and her cute bow I made myself and same with our matching braclets - I know I am loving having a little girl to make things for.

I even think I might start selling baby braclets and bows (what do you guys think? good or bad idea?)

Cute Pictures

2009-12-20T15:22:00.008-07:00

I just wanted to share some cute pictures of the kiddos!

I love my kiddos!

Sweet little Mylee dressed as a present

She sure does LOVE to smile

I always told myself I would never be one of those mothers who put those huge bows on their baby girl...well I guess I didn't know how cute mine would look! :)

And it looks like a bow on a present - she has totally been the best Christmas present EVER!

I pulled out Austin's old baby toy and Mylee was really into it. It was so cute. Made me happy because she actually layed there for a little while. When Austin was this age he was already rolling over and wasn't interested in the toy at all!

A little update on Austin...he seems to be feeling better, still has the runny nose and his ear is still leaking (it's getting pretty bad). We are taking him into the clinic today to see if something is wrong since it has been leaking for over 5 days now. I hope it's nothing to bad because we have that LONG plane ride on Sunday. Guess we will see.

Hope everyone is enjoying the holiday time!

p.s. as of December 17th Mylee has found her laugh and she almost weighs 9 lbs!

$50 gift card

2009-12-19T14:09:00.004-07:00

Hey I just wanted to do a little post about the $50 gift card from Mystic Memories I am giving away.

I have only had 7 people enter so far (so the chances are good).

Go to my photography page and enter to win!

Mystic Memories

I will be doing the drawing on Tuesday

Tis' the Season....to be sick!

2009-12-16T15:33:00.002-07:00

Well as you have noticed I haven't blogged anymore of my little boy...that's because he has been sick. He has been fighting a bug for the last 2 weeks and they don't really know what. It gets really frustrating because I feel so helpless and I can't really give him anything to make him feel better. I think he is also fighting an ear infection because his left ear is draining really bad. Poor kid has snot coming out of his nose like a running faucet and his ear looks the same! I guess I could continue his daily pictures but it hasn't been pretty lately. His wonderful diarrhea has been back for a while now...that's always fun. In two days I have cleaned crap out of the tub, a carseat, high chair, and a million outfits (but so far we haven't had to throw away any shoes). He doesn't want to eat.....not even FRIES (the kid loves fries). He threw up some fries last week and hasn't touched any since. I am just praying that he starts to feel better soon and Mylee doesn't catch the bug- I thought he was feeling a little better Sunday afternoon but I was wrong. Aaron is also sick = AGAIN!....but we have a z-pack for him so I pray it works this time. So much for the flu shot, huh! We all got the flu shot and everyone has been sick once or twice since! But I guess we haven't gotten the swine flu so it has served it's purpose! And hopefully everyone feels better before we leave for Hawaii...if not I guess what better place to feel crappy then on a warm beach! :)

Hope everyone else is happy and healthy!

Picture overload!!!

2009-12-09T12:07:00.014-07:00

Here is just a warning that this post will be full of pictures!!

First off I knew I'd fall behind on Austin's days....but I did take the pictures everyday...just got to busy to post them!!! So here are the past days of Austin:

Day 5: Austin loves to put on shoes,

he has done this since we could walk

but this picture is funny to me because

he has my platform flipflops on and

they are in between the wrong toes...

Day 6: Loves to play in my desk

I have a desk that has a place for the tower

I can't put my tower in it because it

overheats all the time. So Austin likes

to play in it.

Day 7: Likes to play with stickers

He likes it when I put stickers all over him.

Day 8: Loves his binkie

Yeap he still has his binkie! And he LOVES IT!

No worries he has to say goodbye to it next year!

Day 9: Likes his fruits

This kid LOVES fruits, his favorites are

apples & bananas

we have to watch him with the apples

because he's eat it whole (core and all)

Now that I am caught up with Austin's Days....

Here is a peak at our 5 minute attempt to take family pictures!

Not bad for 5 minutes! Thanks to Aaron's little sister Danee! We did these last night. I figured I'd better just bite the bullet and just get them done before it was to late! It was so cold and we didn't even try to make the kids smile! But atleast we have a family picture with Mylee in it! :)

I hope I can get a card designed tonight so I can send to friends and family (if you want one, I need your address!)

Of course I have to throw in this sweet picture of Aaron and Mylee...so cute!

Also while I am on a roll I am just going to throw in the 2 pictures I have from Mylee's blessing day (this past Sunday). I know I am once again a horrible mom...I forgot to take pictures! It was a very busy day! I have to dress Mylee up again so I can take pictures of her in her dress (my mother made her dress, I made the hairbow & braclet).

Mylee and Aaron before her blessing

Keagan & KarLee loving on Mylee

As you can see we have been pretty busy around here. But we are having fun!! I love being home with my two kids (while I stay busy with my photography of course) Austin keeps things interesting and fun! Hopefully I will remember to contiune his days...so stay tuned!

Day 4

2009-12-04T10:44:00.001-07:00

Day 4:

AUSTIN LOVES BATHTIME

Day 3

2009-12-03T10:42:00.000-07:00

Day 3:

AUSTIN LIKES TO PLAY IN MYLEE'S CARSEAT

Austin - Sweet & Funny

2009-12-02T17:00:00.005-07:00

So today I was feeding Mylee and I heard Austin wimper in his room for a second than it went silent (I couldn't check on him right away because I was nursing Mylee) so a minute or so later he comes into my room dragging about 5 blankets with a big grin on his face - so cute! I noticed the one blanket was in his crib...so I am guessing he was wimpering because it wasn't easy to get. He brought all of his blankets by me and laid down. He just looked up at me with a smiled...so sweet!

He is such a little kid now and is picking up on new things everyday. He is very silly and I love that I am able to spend my days at home with him. He really does entertain me! I figured since I am a terrible scrapbooker and journaler (is that a word) that I would use this blog this month as my scrapbook/journal of the Sweet and funny things Austin is doing! This will force me to actually write down the sweet and funny things about him until I have time to sit down and put all of this in his baby book!

Yesterday I will count as day 1:

Day 1 - Loves to help with his sister

Day 2 - Loves his blankets

(Seriously this kid has to take a blanket everywhere he goes)

lets see if I actually follow through with it everyday (until Christmas).

2 Months Old

2009-12-01T19:39:00.007-07:00

So my little baby girl is already 2 months old! It has gone by to fast!
Mylee had her 2-month checkup yesterday and here are her stats:

Weight: 8 lbs. 5 oz.
Length: 21 inches
(don't remember head measurements)

Yeah she is still tiny! I looked it up and she is in the 5th percentile for weight and height! It's so crazy because Austin has always been in the 90th or above percentile! It looks like my kids are complete opposites! Mylee is pretty much at the same weight and height as Austin was when he was born. I guess my milk isn't as good as it used to be! :)

As for milestones the doctor says she is right where she should be.
She is sleeping pretty well (about 5-6 hours at night). Still naps decent during the days...but there are always those sleepless nights and days once and a while!

She loves: smiling, baths, being naked, Austin, her swing, Christmas music, being swaddled and having her butt patted.
She doesn't like: being on her belly, yelling, her car seat (when awake), cold milk, and binkies (I can't get her to take one anyways),

And Austin is starting to really adore his little sister...I already know he is going to be protective. He likes to help out by bringing me her bottle, binkie, and blanket. He even talks to her in a sweet baby talk voice and tries to cuddle and give kisses (like mom does). It's so cute! She smiles at him all the time.

Here are some pictures from today:

I love this first one...she is smiling at Austin - so precious!

I think these two are going to be great buddies!

Sweet Baby Smiles & Crazy Chipmunk Dancing

2009-11-16T14:48:00.008-07:00

I have been meaning to post this since last week but I have been working frantically on getting my photography caught up...and I have done it all - except one session! :) Yay! (that is until Wednesday. when I photograph another session) Anyways I thought I'd post these fun pictures to let you know how the kiddos are doing!

Austin is as busy as always. He loves to dance! Every time an upbeat song comes on he busts-a-move! I've been told that his Aunt Mindee taught him to bow, but I have only seen him do it once, it's pretty cute! And I have finally found a movie he will somewhat watch! He LOVES the Chipmunk Movie. I had him in his highchair eating and watching the movie while I was in the other room editing and a song came on and I thought I better go check if he is dancing and low and behold:

I totally love this kid! It was so cute! If no one is around he really concentrates and pulls some funny faces like the one above.

Austin also has a bad night time habit~ anytime we put him in bed he cries bloody murder. And believe me we have tried to let him cry it out. It can last for hours. Aaron now has to lay on his floor until he falls asleep. And that's not the worst of his nightly habits. He seems to wake up every morning between 3 and 5 a.m. and screams until you get him. So we bring him into our bed when he wakes up like this (which has been for the past 3-4 months). I know it's a terrible habit to let him sleep in our bed in the morning....but I’m not going to lie - I love the morning snuggles I get in with him once daddy goes to work! :)
As for Baby Mylee she doesn't go to sleep at night until 1 in the morning usually. But now she is sleeping until about 5 a.m. so we get a little sleep in.

But she is a happy girl (when she's not sleepy). She is a smiler, I've decided her nickname will be "Smiley Mylee". Every time she wakes up from a nap or gets done with a bottle she is all smiles and coos for about 10-15 minutes - I LOVE IT! She is to cute for words! And I am guessing she will be a big fan of Christmas just like her daddy because every time I sing the song off of The Grinch Who Stole Christmas (the one that's like..."yaw hoo dores, yaw hoo dores, welcome Christmas, Christmas time"...something like that) She gets big smiles and starts to coo a lot. So adorable! I am horrible at the picture taking and capturing her smiles because I just want to sit there and play with her and not run to get the camera. But here was my attempt of capturing her smile a few days ago:

And yes she still has her blue eyes. I'll be shocked if they stay...but for now they are still a pretty blue! I totally love Austin's eyes (which are like mine) but truthfully I hope Mylee gets her dads eyes - which she won't because they aren't light. But Aaron has the most beautiful eyes! That's why I married him....I was secretly hoping he'd give me blue-green eyed babies! :) j/k

Here is a picture of Mylee's first time going to church

(well not counting Stake Conference last Sunday)

Yeap all of her 0-3 clothes still drowned her!

She is still in Newborns!

So that's what the kiddos have been up to. As for Aaron and I we are just pluggin' away at work!

I do have to say this (hopefully Aaron will read this) Aaron has been such a wonderful help with the kids this past weekend and I really appreciate it. He is the reason I am almost caught up with my work, and I love him to death! I also have to thank his mother because I am sure she helped him out a lot since he spent all of the weekend at her house! So Thanks Jan! I have a very wonderful family and I am very lucky!

Hope all is well with everyone else! :)

My 21-Month-Old

2009-11-11T14:34:00.005-07:00

So Great news!!! My little buddy is home! :)

Many of you are wondering where he went...

Well he is a spoiled little boy - ok not spoiled just really loved!

His Grandma Jan and Grandpa Dan took him (and his cousins) to California for a week of fun! They went to Lego Land, the zoo, and Knotts Berry Farms. What a lucky little boy, huh!

I did enjoy the little break and I got a lot of work done...but Im not going to lie, I missed him like CRAZY. Everytime I'd hear his little voice on the phone I'd cry. He is such a little talker. He hasn't stopped talking about, Grandma, Grandpa, and KarLee since he got home. And he wasn't happy to see me or Aaron...broke my heart. But when he saw Mylee he got all happy and gave her a kiss. It was way cute! He may only be 21 months but he is a pretty good big brother already!

Since I was doing a post about Austin I decided to throw in a few pictures from a few weeks ago.

I have been spending most of my free time on the computer working and so Austin has been spending that time, TRASHING the room. It's the only way to keep him happy and for me to get some work done....sad to say most of my house looks just like this room!

I don't know if you can really tell but in this picture he is really into his photo book (it's a book that Grandma Jan gave to him with pictures of the family in it) Austin LOVES this book!

And when he isn't in the office with me he is in the front room getting into trouble. This is a picture of his artistic expression he had. He got into Aaron's golf bag and found the markers. I am lucky that his "expression" didn't get all over the furniture! :)

So needless to say Austin is a busy body! My mom calls him "Dennis the Menace". I just wish I had a 1/4 of his energy. I might get the house cleaned once and a while if I did!

As I said before he is a chatterbox! And he picks up on new words all the time. Here are a few he has added to his vocabulary in the past month: Grandma, Grandpa, kaka, go bye-bye, fries, cars, hey guys.

Anyways most of this is journaling stuff so I'll stop boring everyone!

I will say this though- it sure is nice to here Austin's laughter around the house again. There is nothing sweeter than the sound of laughter from your child!

Where is my time?

2009-11-09T20:26:00.004-07:00

Once again I feel like I deserve the "worst-mom" award.

I have been so busy with sessions, editing, and enjoying the fact that I finally have a baby who will take naps, that I haven't been very good about taking pictures of my little Mylee! I feel terrible! When Austin was a baby I easily took a thousand pictures his first month. Mylee will be 2 months soon and I have only taken a few since we brought her home.

Austin will be home tomorrow (I am so excited I don't think I'll be able to sleep tonight - not like I get much sleep anyways but you get my point!)! I thought I would get so much house work and projects done when he was gone...well I didn't. I really thought that with one kid again I could some how magically get everything done...but it didn't happen. Some days I wonder if I will ever get caught up on things? Will I ever have a clean house again? Will I ever become a decent housewife? Will I get to check things off on my long list of "to do's"? Will I ever learn to balance work and 2 kids?

*sigh* - How is it possible that I can feel so worn-out at night but I have accomplished NOTHING all day?

And what's with the days...they seem to fly by so quickly now. How can it almost be 2010?!?!?

Anyways I am just going on and on so I will post the few pictures I have of Mylee and be done with this post:

Crazy Busy Halloween

2009-10-31T11:12:00.000-06:00

I know this post is late (even though I am putting the post date as Halloween) but I had to hurry and throw these few pictures I have up just so I feel better about the whole Halloween situation - long story (I will sum it up after the pictures!)

Our little family spent Halloween this year in Neola, Utah with Aaron's family. I was able to set up a little photo booth at their carnival while the family enjoyed the food and fun activities.

I was able to sneek away for a minute to take a few pictures of Austin enjoying the Cake Walk.

Grandma and Austin on the Cake Walk

Austin won...he was pretty excited

He like the game so much that he and daddy did it again but he didn't win

I am so embarassed to be posting these pictures

but to avoid feeling like the worst mom ever I had to post them.

Basically in a nut shell the studio lights (or light since Austin broke one)

are cheap and HORRIBLE! But I am happy to say that they are

retired and I am finally getting nice studio lights! :)

Austin and Ryan

- Aaron's family helped me out a lot by watching Austin while I did the photo booth.

Here is little Mylee she was wonderful she sleeped most of the time.
(once again I am not proud of these pictures but the subjects are sweet!)

Ok so here goes my Halloween story...

I officially deserve the worst mother award for Halloween this year. For one I don't think I will ever do a photo booth on Halloween night again! I felt guilty the whole time that I wasn't spending time with my kids...I didn't even see Austin all night except the Cake Walk. Halloween is my favorite holiday and I feel like I didn't even get to enjoy it with my kids. And to top it off I forgot Mylee's costume at home...that made me feel terrible. Austin and Mylee were going to be matching monkeys. I had cute bows on Mylee's and a little tutu. Yeah it was so cute and she didn't even get to use it. And I didn't even get any pictures of them together or any pictures really period - the pictures above are the only ones I took of them all night.
Yeap that's right I was a crappy mommy this year on Halloween. And the photo booth didn't turn out to well either as you can tell with my crappy light. Half of them turned out cute and the other half have a funky glow to them....maybe that's because half way through as I was posing a kid a little girl knocked a pumpkin over and it hit my camera and the camera hit the floor - yeah not to good for the camera! My heart sank...$1500 camera hitting the floor doesn't add to your already crappy night! It seems to be fine I've done a few sessions since and they have turned out just fine. So hopefully the camera is fine - that's the last thing I need right now is a broken camera!

So that is my Crazy Busy Halloween. I guess it's a Halloween I will never forget!

But you can guarantee next year I will be going all out for my kids! And no Photography on Halloween night...except the thousands of cute adorable pictures of my kiddos I will be taking. I already know what we are all going to be for next year, it's going to be so cute and even Aaron and I will be dressing up with the kids! Can't wait!

Pumpkins, Pumpkins, and more Pumpkins!

2009-10-26T12:16:00.004-06:00

I have been slacking on my posts lately – which has been easy to do since I’ve got two kiddos to play with and work to catch up on! But I thought I’d hurry and post what we’ve been up to the past two weeks!

Fall is my most favorite time of the year – I love Halloween! But this year I haven’t been able to really celebrate it; I haven’t even decorated the house! Just been to darn busy! It has really bummed me out a little bit! The only thing we have done that is festive is the Pumpkins:

Saturday the 17th we went to the pumpkin patch here in town and it was pretty sad…all the pumpkins were tiny or green. And I just can’t have a green pumpkin…that’s not a pumpkin at all! So after searching for a while we just found 4 cute tiny ones to take home!

Here are some pics:

Our Little Family at the Patch

Mylee in her cute Halloween outfit
(of course way to big on her - even Newborns are still big on her)
Check out the cute bow, I made that!

Austin and Aunt Danee lookin for the perfect pumpkin

Once they found one Austin wanted nothing to do with it.

He was scared of them, wouldn't go near one!

Here are our pumpkins we picked.

And as I stated above we have been getting together with the Gillins family to carve pumpkins for the past two years and it has become a very fun tradition!

Here are some pics:

He even smiled by a pumpkin

But he still hates them!

So he just watched Randee and Mason

He is such a goofball but I love him!

Everyone's pumpkins...can you guess which one is Aarons?

A "Crappy" Day

2009-10-17T11:23:00.006-06:00

Here is a warning in advance...do not read this post if you don't want to here a story with a lot of "crap".

Yesterday started out like any normal day -
and I had no idea that it would be one of the "crappiest" days for my little buddy and the smelliest for me!

Austin loves to take bath in our big jetted tub and it's easy for me to just let him play in the tub while I get the baby get ready for the day.

So as usual Austin was in the tub playing with his toys while talking about Grandpa (that's all he talks about). And I was changing Mylee on our bed. After I got Mylee all ready I went into the bathroom to get Austin out of the tub...and low and behold Austin had pooped in the tub (I was a little shocked because he hasn't done this is a long time). I hurried and turned off the jets and pulled him out and put him in the shower - where he of course cried the whole time because he hates the shower! So I started to clean out the tub...I threw all of his toys in both of the sinks with bleach. It took me an hour to clean the tub and I needed to clean the jets so I filled the tub up with water, but when I pushed the button for the jets to turn on it wouldn't work (Yay now I’m thinking all the crap clogged to jets).

Austin had a couple more crappy experiences that he actually kept in his diaper (I was thankful for that - I can handle a poopy diaper but not when it escapes the diaper). I figured he was done for the day.

Nope!

Aaron and the kids came with me to do a photo session in Pocatello last night he watched the kids while I worked. After the session we decided to go to dinner at IHOP. We got to IHOP and Aaron went to put Austin in the highchair and he asked me what was on Austin's shoe. I looked down and there was "crap" all over his shoe. So we quickly and quietly packed up the kids and walked out. We had to change Austin in the parking lot...we must of looked pretty silly because it was talking both of us to clean all of the crap up - it was EVERYWHERE! Aaron held his legs straight up and I distributed wipes (about 20 of them) Funny thing is when we finally got to the diaper (where you expect the worst) there was hardly any! It was so bad that we just threw his clothes away - even his very cute DC shoes. It was horrible!

Note: Don't buy $30 shoes for your 20-month-old he will just poop in them!

I am guessing that if you read through our crappy day that you must be a mother...because only a mother can relate to and find the humor in a poop story! :)

But my poor kid has been battling diarrhea for almost 2 months now...everyone says that I shouldn't worry about the diarrhea because he is probably teething. Is that normal for 2 months? I asked the doctor 2 weeks ago and he said that it could be the reason. I just feel so bad for my little buddy! Is there something I can give him to help? Should I be worried it's been almost 2 months? Should I take him into the doctor and demand him to check him out?

I love being a mother, crappy day and all, but I hate the times where I feel so helpless. I don't like the fact that there is nothing I can do for my boy. I want to be able to make him feel better and it frustrates me that I can't!

I had to throw in a picture - and I know you don't want to see a picture of our "crappy" day so I decided to throw this one in from last week. Austin wanted to hold Mylee and I finally let him - he is such a proud big brother!

Mylee's Firts Photo Session

2009-10-11T16:15:00.009-06:00

We finally had some time to try and do a mini photo session for Mylee's Newborn Portraits...and let me tell you - it's IMPOSSIBLE to do with a 20-month-old little boy (yes I am talking about my little buddy Austin). Well honestly we have been trying to get this session done for 3 days now and today was the first day we actually got some pictures taken! It is so much harder to work with your own kids...it's amazing how your patience just disappears! But enough complaining because I actually LOVE how they turned out. I didn't get to do any of the vintage look like I had planned but I love these simple portraits so much! Here is a little peek you can check out some more on my photography website here: Mystic Memories Photography

Aaron took the cutest picture of these two but the flash went off (and I had shadows) and by the time I grabbed the camera Austin was laying down cuddling her - I still love this picture though, just because it's my kiddos!

I think she will have daddy wrapped around her finger!!

WE LOVE YOU MYLEE

Adjusting to two

2009-10-08T14:30:00.011-06:00

I can not express enough how much I love my kiddos! And it is fun having two kids at home with me! I LOVE IT!

But I must say it helps that Mylee sleeps so much...I am afraid that will stop shortly. And my little buddy is always on the go (as usual) but he has warmed up to his sis and loves to be around her (for the most part). I love how he always says "baby" or "Mylee" with a smile when he is around her. He wants to help out by giving her a binky or bottle ... and she has only been hit by one of his flying sippy cups.

I must share this picture - I was getting Mylee ready for the day and Austin fell asleep on the bed so I put Mylee in his arms and snapped a picture...it was so precious! (no worries I didn't leave her there).

This just melts my heart and makes me so happy. I love being able to capture these moments, thanks to a wonderful supporting husband who lets me stay home and be with my kids. Thanks babe!

All-in-all I think we are adjusting just fine...I was afraid I wouldn't love Mylee as much as I did Austin - no worries I love them just the same. And who ever said you love your first kid more than the rest must not have a sweet little baby girl like I do! I do believe there is no greater love than a mother's love!

So no need to worry about me, I am loving my kiddos and I couldn't be happier!

I also wanted to throw in a few pictures from the annual Brendle Family trip to Jackson:

Kaidence holding Mylee

Austin playing with Steve's shoes

Bowen eating dinner

Mylee and her cousin Khloee - they are 2 months apart

Our Baby Girl is Here...

2009-10-06T17:24:00.011-06:00

This is a little late but when I finally had some time to blog about our new addition I found out that our computer had broke down and so I have been without a computer for the past week - very hard for me!

But good news is I've been to busy to really miss the computer.

I just wanted to do a quick post to show off our new baby girl-

Here she is:

Mylee Marie McLaughlan

born September 25th, 2009
@ 6:57 a.m.
6 lbs. 15 Oz.
19 1/2 inches

We love her to death and she is a wonderful addition to our little family! I feel so blessed to be able to have such a precious baby girl, she is perfect and she brings such a sweet spirit to our home.

Mylee's birth didn't go as planned by the doctor...which made me very happy! I was scheduled to go in at midnight for induction since she was overdue. As I have expressed before, being induced scared me...so I went home from the doctors office and cooked 3 meals, cleaned my house, and did laundry all day by the time Aaron got home from work I decided that I was having contractions every 20 mins. This made me so happy. I asked Aaron for blessing (which my father and father-in-law helped out) for comfort. Finally at about 2:30 in the morning the contractions slowed down from every 10 mins back to 45 mins...this worried me, Aaron and I decided that we should just go in for induction.

I got to the hospital and the contractions started to come every 5 mins ( I only knew this because of the machine telling me...I guess I have a high threshold for pain because I can only feel the big contractions) and I was dilated to a "6 maybe 7" - I was so ecstatic to hear those numbers!! So I got an epidural and they told me to rest. An hour later I was completely dilated and the doctor broke my water...when he did this he proceeded to tell me that we have to be careful because the baby had already had a bowel movement. He reassured me that it is very common and the baby should be just fine. He said he'd just let my body naturally push the baby out...I think he asked me to pushed twice and she was here. And the doctor was right she was perfectly fine, they cleared her lungs before she took a breath so there was no complications.

The labor went smoother than I had hoped for. 4 hours in the hospital and I was able to hold my baby girl! One of the best feelings in the world...the 9 months of morning sickness, weight gain, and all the wonderful things that come with being pregnant and giving birth are SO WORTH IT!

here are some pictures from the hospital:

I was so happy to have my baby girl finally here!

long fingers

She has long skinny feet like her dad

Austin didn't have to much interest in Mylee.

This was Mylee's going home outfit

Grandma Jan got it for her

It is so stinkin cute with little monkey's all over it!

I have to send out a huge thank you to my in-laws that helped me out so much with Austin and taking care of us when we came home from the hospital. You guys are the best and we appreciate all you do for our little family. We love you so much...thanks for being a part of our lives. And also thanks to my sister who kept me company and for all of the newborn clothes she handed down from Khloee - they are so cute and have come in handy! Also thank you to everyone who visited us in the hospital we appreciate you all!

Over Due and Ready to Go...

2009-09-24T18:02:00.003-06:00

Well this will be the last post you will have to hear me whine about being pregnant!

I had another doctor appointment today and after he checked me he said I was still about 50% effaced and 1-2 cm dilated. Nothing has changed and I started to get emotional. My sweet husband hugged me as I cried in the clinic room because I knew what that meant. When the doctor can back Aaron asked if it was his wife what he would do and the doctor said he would induce her. I have been so against being induced because I figure she will come when she is good and ready! So after asking a bunch of questions we have decided to go in tonight at midnight for induction!

I’m not going to lie, I am so scared! Austin's delivery was so perfect and easy I was only in the hospital for 3 hours before he came. I've never been induced and I don't really know what to expect.

I really wanted to wait and go on my own but with my blood sugar problems I don't want the baby to get any bigger (so hopefully she's not already 10 lbs). And I am overdue and the doctor said you can run into problems with the placenta or umbilical cord going bad.
But on the other hand I am afraid if I get induced I will be pushing her and I will end up with a C-section. I can't have a C-section; I go back to photographing sessions on October 5th.
But after weighing the pros and cons it seems best for the baby to just get her here.

That means that by tomorrow night our little girl should be here...that makes me so happy (even though I can't stop crying because I am so scared something will go wrong!). It just feels like a bitter-sweet moment right now but I am sure that will go away as soon as I get to cuddle her in my arms.

So wish us luck and I promise the next post will be exciting and full of pictures! :)

40 weeks Pregnant and still no baby...

2009-09-21T15:39:00.002-06:00

That's right today I am 40 weeks Pregnant and I have no baby to hold. I’m not going to lie, I am a little sad. I guess I was just hoping that she would come early.
I had another Dr. appointment this morning and I am finally dilated 1 cm almost 2, and I am about 60% effaced (so I am progressing a little). He was able to strip my membranes too (always so much fun) so I am praying it helps get things started.
He said he would induce me if I wanted tomorrow and I just have a feeling to wait - Austin was so easy to deliver, I guess I am just praying for another easy delivery if I wait and go on my own...but so far this pregnancy hasn't been anything like Austin's.
I go back in Thursday morning so I guess we will go from there.
Let's just hope I go into labor before than because I really don't like posting without any pictures. It's no fun!

On a side note Austin has already learned to say his little sister's name (so if it comes out a boy I guess he will have a girly name). It's the cutest thing EVER! I really want to post a video of him but than it will spoil the surprise. (Even though most of you know).

One Week to Go

2009-09-15T15:37:00.000-06:00

It's amazing how much I have been blogging lately...it helps that I have been waiting around to go into labor!!!

I had my 39 week check-up yesterday with some bad news - I am still only 30-40% effaced and not dilated at all!! Not what a pregnant woman wants to hear in her 39th week. I talked it over with my doctor and we decided not to induce this week. So I will get to see my due date (21st) come and go with no baby girl in hand...he said he will let me go up to 41 weeks if I want to try and go natural. I am so worried about being induced but I am so worried about having a HUGE baby. I've had all my blood sugar problems and insulin problems as it is I’m so scared she is going to come out a 10 pound baby. I expressed my concern about it and asked the doctor if there was any way to tell how big the baby was and he looked at me and said..."I'd say 6 1/2 maybe 7 lbs."...just curious but how can you tell how big a baby is if you don't measure or do an ultrasound??? So that didn't ease my worries at all.

But I guess my check-up wasn't all bad news...I only gained 1 pound during fair week. I was so shocked because I was loving the sweets. I think in total I had a bag of cotton candy, scones, and 3 cinnamon rolls. I thought for sure I'd gain 5 lbs. So now my total gained is 15 lbs. which is all my doctor wanted me to gain (I better pop this kid out before I gain anymore). I know 15 lbs. sounds good to a lot of you but to me who still had 10 lbs. to loose from her first baby and already being overweight. But my goal will be to lose 30 lbs. total. It may sound weird but I can't wait to get back into the habit of going to the gym each morning with my dad, I was really good about it until the morning sickness hit me when I was pregnant with Austin...and the gym hasn't seem much of me since than - and you can tell!!

I was just really wishing I'd be holding my baby girl by now...Im also worried because I am suppost to be going back to work by October 5th (my first scheduled photo session). And I am getting a very busy schedule for October. I also have my family trip to Jackson Hole the first weekend in October and I think we will have to miss it.

Anyways I am just going on and on...

I guess it's also been nice that the baby hasn't came yet I've been getting a lot of my projects done for her that I've wanted to do. I never thought I'd got crazy over all the stuff you can do and make for girls...but it's hit me and I am having tons of fun. I am almost halfway through my list of things I wanted to do.

Here is a peek:

-Hooded Towel
-Clips
-Bows, Bows, and more BOWS
- Burp Cloths
-Baby Bracelet
-Girl Monkeys
- Sippy Cup Holder

To do:
-Baby Blocks & Rings
-Binkie holder
-Tag Rag
- Car Carrier Cover
- Baby Legs
- Bow holder

To see the projects in more detail check out my Motherhood site:

foreveramother.blogspot.com
I am trying to post them soon.

What Time Is It?

2009-09-13T16:43:00.003-06:00

It's SUNDAY NIGHT FOOTBALL!!!

Aaron has been so excited for Football to start. He pulled out Austin and his Cowboys jerseys and headed over to his parents house to watch the game (since we have no T.V). I’m not going to lie - I love the time I get to myself for those few short hours, it sure does help in October and November when my photography is so busy. And I think it's cute that they have something they do together.

This is Aaron and Austin before they left to watch the game...

This was them a little while after they came home... So Sweet!

I also have to throw in this picture, there is a reason for this....
Austin has become quite a finicky little boy when it comes to being dressed. Once you get him dressed and put his shoes on he is all happy...but if you have to take off his shoes or pants (like when you change his diaper) he throws a holy fit! No joke, you would think that you were punishing him by the tantrum he throws if you don't put ALL of his clothes back on. This was a kid who about 2 or 3 weeks ago just ran around in nothing but a diaper all day and was happy. It's funny all of the little characteristics they start to pick up and how quickly they can change. When we were trying to get his 18-month portraits done I had a jacket on him and didn't button it up and he threw a fit! He wanted it buttoned up...not just one button - ALL OF THEM! So I just thought I'd share Austin's new quirk. That boy makes me laugh...it's a good thing because some days he just drives me nuts because he never slows down! But I love my little man more than anything!

18-Month Portraits...FINALLY

2009-09-13T16:27:00.007-06:00

We finally got Austin's 18-Month Portraits done...it only took 3 nights of his tantrums to get him to cooperate for these few pictures. I guess it's nice that I only get a couple of shots because than I don't have to edit through over 100! And it's wonderful to have a husband that can make your boy smile even during one of his hysterical bawling sessions. Don't let his big grin fool you...he HATES pictures now!

I have decided to make this shot a tradition in our family...

This was last year about the same time...

It just makes my heart happy!

It will be exciting to add a girl to the picture next year!
I can't believe how much my baby has grown up this

past year. He looks like a big boy. I love how he

is looking up at Aaron - the kid loves his daddy!

Aaron's gone Pro

2009-09-11T11:48:00.004-06:00

No not a pro in golf but a pro in photography...

Here is my belly shot for 38..well almost 39 weeks.

I have been trying for the past two nights (well honestly I've been trying for two months) to get some pictures done before the baby comes and it's been quite the adventure...two nights ago Austin cried the whole time - last night right when we started he fell off the chair and hit his head (mom feeling horrible while dad yells at her so she starts crying with Austin). So I just asked Aaron if he would take a few of me and the belly, and I told him to do what he wants. Don't mind that my face if puffy and red that's from all the crying. But I think he did a pretty good job - it totally pays off making him come to some of my sessions with me. I felt that he needed his own little logo to put on these.

I don't enter my photos in the fair but I am going to make him start to enter next year, Im so proud of him.

So tonight we will attempt for the third night in a row to get a family picture taken and Austin's 18-month portraits done (now that he is 19-months).

Nope no baby yet...

2009-09-10T15:50:00.001-06:00

I know we have been MIA for the past 3 weeks and I know a lot of you have been wondering if I had the baby... I sure wish I had. I am now 38 weeks and 3 days and I am so ready to have my baby girl here. Believe me we have tried everything to get her to come early. I was really wishing she would be born yesterday 9/9/9 since 9 is my favorite number and who wouldn't want to be born on a fun date like that. But no luck! And for those of you who are still wondering if we picked out a name yet, we finally did...but you will have to wait and see when we post her first appearance.

I haven't blogged because we have been so busy and because our internet hasn't been working. It's amazing how much you miss out on when you aren't connected (how sad is that).

So I thought I'd do a quick update. I will be posting again tomorrow with some more pictures.

I almost have the nursery all ready, just need to finish putting more monkeys around the room and the window treatment. Thought I'd share some pics because I am so proud of it.

I had a hard time figuring out how to seperate the room

but I think the tree worked out and Aaron had the cute

idea of putting a shelf up for stuffed monkeys so

they look like they are sitting in the tree.

Yes I painted the tree by myself.

These are the monkey's I am putting in the room

I just put pink bows on half to look like girl monkeys.

I figured the best way to make it a boy/girl room was to

decorate with brown, pink, and blue.

You can find tons of cute stuff to match these colors

Aaron doesn't believe me but that shelf is not straight!

I still have to put monkeys on the diaper holders and baskets

I found matching bedding on Wal-Mart.com in the clearance.

Her whole bedding was only $60
Austin's bedding was only $25 (his is a toddler set though)

So that is what I have been up to in my little free time. I have also done a bunch of little projects for the baby which I haven't gotten around to posting to my Motherhood site.

And sorry no belly shot...I haven't remembered to take one since my 34 week. If you really wanna know what I look like just picture a beached whale! :) That's how I feel...But really I am trying to get some help on some maternity pics tonight. We will see if it happens.

I will also have some of Austin's 18-month Portraits to post tomorrow.

Parade & Fair Fun

2009-09-10T15:29:00.005-06:00

I can't believe it's fair time once again...where does the time go? I don't have much to write about but I've got pictures so I'll just post them and they pretty much tell what we did this Labor Day weekend.

THE PARADE

Daddy bought Austin a balloon ($3 rip-off)

He can now say balloon.

My sister and her sweet baby girl

She is such a proud mommy!

Khloee was blessed Sunday.

Keagan, Dan, and Austin riding the golfcart

Jessie, me, & baby Khloee

Kyler was having a blast dancing in this during the parade

we hope he gets his mothers dance moves and not his dads.

The family watching the parade go by...

The kids waiting for candy

(Keagan, Brooklyn, Brealyn, KarLee, Randee, Taylor)

Sweet baby Jakson sleeping

THE FAIR

Aaron always asks me what I would do if we ever won the lottery,

I figure this will be the closest we ever get.

Which makes me laugh that he always asks me that question

when we don't even buy tickets!

Austin and Ryan checkin out the animals

Austin did pretty good with the animals until the goats

when they touched him he totally freaked out.

Aaron wasting his money on games.

OK only those of you who are Napoleon Dynamite fans

will even know who this guy is.

He was the farmer that shot the cow

as the school kids watched from the bus...

Aaron was so excited to meet him and get a picture with him.

18-Months going on 3-Years-Old

2009-08-12T19:27:00.008-06:00

We have been so busy I haven't been able to post an update for a while. I thought once we stayed home on the weekends our lives would slow down...I was wrong we are still just as busy.

Our little monkey - Austin is now 18-months-old and people always ask me if he is 2 or 3 years of age. For his height he is still in the 95% for his age and about 50% for weight.

It sure is amazing how much he is changing and growing. We have been struggling lately with getting rid of the binkie...he used to not be bad with his binkie (so I never thought it would be a problem) until he hit his 1-year mark and than he always wanted it. Now he throws fits if he doesn't get it...and he likes to hide them around the house so when I take one away he ends up with a new one in his mouth very soon.

We had his 18-month check-up and shots last week. His stats are: 26 lbs. 34 inches He gained a pound since last visit and didn't get any taller - I really hope he keeps his height. It makes me laugh because he is the youngest in Nursery but looks like one of the oldest.

Austin is now in Nursery!!!

Yes Austin is now in Nursery at Church and mom and dad LOVE IT. He was such a handful to try and take to church, we ended up walking with a screaming kid through the halls most of church. The kid just likes to run and scream so Aaron and I got a little relax on going to our individual meetings. But now it is so nice to be able to drop him off so we can actually go to class and hear a lesson. I do have to admit the first week we took him I was so worried (I just know he is going to be a problem, he is a handful and like to hit) I even snuck out of class twice to check on him. He actually did ok. Honestly it's been a relief...but in less than 5 short weeks I will be with a baby again so I guess I'll enjoy these last few weeks of church as much as I can.

Austin's favorite thing to do is still golf...he golfs with anything he can get his hands on...spoon, straw, stick, cup, etc. It makes his dad so proud and it just makes me laugh. He hasn't picked up many new words - which I am sure is due to the binkie he always has in his mouth.

I was also wondering about potty training...when do you first try? Should I try before the baby is here or wait until he is 2?

Well that's a little update on our busy little 18-Month-old. I was going to try and wait to post this with some portrait pictures but I have been so busy with my other clients that I haven't been able to get Austin's pictures done...hopefully this week or next. I also wanted some maternity pics but we are so busy I don't know if that's going to happen. So anyways here are some snapshots of Austin.

Austin loves Mac-n-Cheese and loves to feed himself even more.

When he is done eating he likes to stand in his

highchair and one morning he got stuck.

It was so funny!

Austin likes to steal our car keys, he has learned how to make the alarm go off.

He also takes it to his horse and puts it in like he is starting the car.

He is a climber. Everytime I turn my back he has climbed up on something...

and is into everything!

Dad taught him to arm wrestle.

We bought a big pool on clearance last year

but I haven't felt like blowing up a big pool

so we bought this $3 pool for the rest of the summer.

Austin just likes to splash in it...he cried the first time he was in it.

He like warm water - not cold.

He has discovered the hose and LOVES it!

He discovers something new everyday and keeps mom on her feet - I love this little guy!

6 Weeks to Go....

2009-08-11T13:44:00.000-06:00

Well I made it to my 34th week of pregnancy Sunday and here is my updated bump picture...believe me I look much bigger in person!!!

So much more has been going on with this pregnancy compared to Austin's.

I feel so uninformed about everything and very frustrated. The doctor I had with Austin was horrible with the delivery but he was wonderful through all my appointments, ultrasounds, and testing. But I switched doctors this time and Im not going to lie - it has been a very frustrating experience.

It's always reasuring when you go in for an appointment and you ask your doctor when your due date is because you've been told 3 different ones and he can't even tell you. And they seemed to have lost your ultrasound results which costed you about $300 so he can't look at that to figure out the due date. One of my favorites has been when they tested my blood for the wrong thing and I had to go in and get tested again - I have the hardest time giving blood! And when you have to ask about all your results to all the testing and you come to find out in your 32 week that you are Anemic and he never told you before. Oh and you failed your glucose screening you took 4 weeks ago! And I should just go back on my Metformin (which makes your milk dry up and he never told you that). How could I forget the wonderful morning sickness I still have and there is nothing they can do for me - "just tough it out"...even though I know of many women who have been put on medication for morning sickness clear back when they were 20 weeks!! It makes you feel so good inside! It's always fun to have to remind your doctor to even do your glucose screening! I also went in for an appointment today which I was informed I would be doing the Stripe B test and of course my appointment was quick with the doctor not even listening to the heartbeat, measuring, or feeling to see where the baby was positioned...so I asked about the test and he seemed confused and just said we'd do it in 2 weeks. I also had to bring up taking the Metformin and my choice to not mess up my milk production and he seemed confused as to why I was on Metformin, and so I brought up all the stuff we had talked about last time. Than he acted like Metformin doesn't hurt you when you are breastfeeding, and I have to tell him it says right on the label not to use if you are brestfeeding :) got to love it! Anyways there is much more I could go on about but for the sake of not sounding like a miserable whinning pregnant women I'll just post this sweet photo of Austin and my belly and leave it at that!

As worried as I am that Austin will beat up the baby I am also starting to get excited because I think he might be sweet to her. He loves to give my belly kisses and likes to say "baby". Makes my heart melt...I know he really doesn't understand what is coming but at least he is sweet to his sister while she is in my belly.

I jumped on the wagon...

2009-08-04T17:29:00.002-06:00

Yeap that's right I finally gave into the Facebook thing! I am now an official member of the facebook "cool" crowd! After being nagged and threatened I decided it was time! I guess Myspace is so yesterday anyways!

Yes that's right I have a Myspace, a blog, and now a facebook - I am such a loser! :)

Now all of you who told me to get a facebook better add me - I still don't know what I am really doing. Any help would be appreciated!!

Look me up on Facebook and say hello!

Exploring Hogle Zoo

2009-08-03T18:38:00.004-06:00

Yesterday we decided to take advantage of our last trip to Utah (for a while - since I have been there for the past 4 weekends and traveling gets more miserable as time gets closer for the baby to be here). So we spend the day at Utah's Hogle Zoo. It was fun to spend the time with the family but I was a little disappointed with the zoo - lets just say it's no San Diego Zoo! A lot of the animals were sleeping in the buildings which there was no access to or the whole exhibit was closed. They had a baby giraffe that was a few days old I wanted to see but they closed down the exhibit. Even though there was a lack of animals Austin had fun with his cousins and he loved looking at the few monkeys we saw and all the different "kiki's" they had. It was so cute. Every time we saw a cat (lion, tiger, bobcat) he would point and say "kiki". He is a little cat lover - and on the other hand he hated the snakes! Thanks Grandma Jan for taking us to the zoo!

Here are some photos:

Keagan, KarLee, & Austin

Boston

Brady, Aaron, & Danee

The Elephants:

Did you know that Elephants are pregnant for 24 months!?!?

Crazy huh, and I am complaining about 9!

This elephant is 20 months a long.

Baby Jakson - doesn't he have gorgeous blue eyes!!

My big boy, he can drink out of the lions mouth now!

He is getting so tall!

Here is Danee in her little "Short Boat"

Our little family

Doesn't my husband look good when he shaves!!

Grandpa Earl turns "70"

2009-08-02T18:19:00.002-06:00

Aaron's Grandpa Earl turned 70 this past weekend and we went to Utah to go celebrate with him. Jan (Aaron's mom) and her brother Mike put together a birthday lunch and I was able to do some pictures to capture the special event.

I haven't edited these at all but I wanted to do this post while I was downloading (the hundreds) the photos.

Earl with all of his children (Yes he has 8 kids)

Austin and his Great-Grandpa Earl

4 Generations - Jan, Aaron, Austin, Earl

Earl with his Grandchildren and Great-Grandchildren

(Many are missing though)

Ok I hope Mindee and Danee don't kill me for this photo

but I have to share this with them

"it's so hard to get the wind blown look"

There is never a dull moment around this family!!

A Day at Lava

2009-07-29T17:12:00.000-06:00

We have been so busy lately and I haven't blogged about any of it! So this will be the first out of a few post (I will be posting them with the date they happend.) I don't know if I will be able to blog about Aaron and Austin's past weekends since I wasn't there and I don't have any pics yet but they have been having tons of fun together (jet skiing, swimming, camping, and golfing)

It has been tons of fun having Aaron's sisters Chelsee and Mindee (plus her three kiddos) home for the past week. We took the day and went to Lava for some swimming fun (I was so excited because Aaron got off early and was able to come with us. We spent the day at the pool and went to the hot springs for the evening. Here are a couple of photos:

Sweet little baby Jakson being pulled by his Uncle Aaron

Austin playing with Grandma Jan in the pool

They are so much a like it scares me!

Mindee going down the slide-

Lava got some sweet new slides

I was not going to attempt them

But I can't wait to try them next summer

Grandpa and Austin taking a nap

(Austin was eating M&M's when he fell asleep

that's why his face is so dirty)

Pregnancy Update:

I really hate this picture -

I feel like such a whale now!

I am 32 1/2 weeks in this picture...I really think I should stop taking them because it makes me feel like such a cow...but what do you expect right! I will share more in the next post.

Baby Khloee is here!

2009-07-27T13:58:00.004-06:00

My sister Cyndee had her baby girl Khloee on Thursday and I was lucky enough to spend all weekend with them.

Baby Khloee is so sweet and small! She was only 6 lbs. 1 oz. and is as cute as can be. She makes me very excited to get my baby girl here (only 8 weeks left). I was in heaven holding Khloee - I felt bad I was a little baby hog, but who wouldn't be she is to tiny and adorable! Yes I am a very proud Aunt!