Last Saturday we had a Halloween themed b-day party for Oak with the extended family.

This was about the only picture where the hat is on, the eyes are focused (some what) and the girls are actually standing next to each other. Seriously this is a feat. I'm tootin my own horn on this own I know, but I'm so proud of this very very homemade looking pumpkin cake I made.

You know you live in Utah when you take pictures of your spread of food. Mmmm pumpkin bread bowls....

I sat on the couch that day just sucking it all in. The crisp weather outside, the smell of chili warming on the stove, the laughter of all our family. Her smile.

The simple things.

I have been anxious all day....

wondering....

waiting....


wishing......



My ultra sound appointment was today, and it was so NEAT! It seriously is amazing to have the technology to see my 7 oz baby floating around in there. Oaklee was there with us too and she was so cute. She was fascinated by the machines and the little heart beat we got to hear. And Colton.. My sweet husband, his face was priceless when they told us the gender. A BOY! An instant sense of pride and a HUGE smile came over him. It was so sweet.
I'm laying next to him in bed right now and he is still smiling.
Love these moments!

Two years ago yesterday Oaklee was born. It blows my mind that she really turned two. Yesterday. I have a two year old now. It's crazy to think where we were two years ago. Actually, to be honest, it's painful to think about where we, more so I, was two years ago. One word still rings sharp and familiar in my ear...Pseduoseizures. If that sounds like a crazy person word, it probably is. But it is real and very scary. Sometimes I wish that I could go back in time and erase those memories and moments... Ones where I should have been contently enjoying Oaklee's little life, and not in a hospital bed staring up at the fake bright lights, with no answers and a world, no actually a universe, of guilt.. I wish I wouldn't have cared so much about what people were thinking, I wish I would have fully embraced my miracle, BUT with that said, I am grateful for what I went through, because without those experiences I never would have gained the priceless wisdom and outlook I have now. I learned and accepted so many things about myself during that time. Yes I am young, you are right supermarket lady that told me I look like I look like I could be Oaklee's older sister. (Should have seen her face when I said, "actually I'm her mom... it was awesome.) And yes it is hard. But I'm all about the moments in life that make it ALL worth it, Like yesterday at Oaklee's birthday, and this priceless photo I snapped with my ghetto camera. I AM embracing it. and it is so WORTH IT.

*Happy Birthday my sweet little girl. I love you.

I've been trying to think of something fun and different to tell people that I'm pregnant. But I got nothing.

"Mom, Hodee bit me."
"Mom, Grashciie bit me."
"Mom Hodee is touching my carseat."
"Mom Grashcie huurt me."

.8 seconds pass in silence

"Mom Hodee spilled her juice in her car seat."
"Mom Grashcie is bugging me."

I sit in the front seat, trying to keep my smile and glance at Amie hidden from the two tiny conspirators in the back.
I can't help but crack up.

Lately Grace and Oak have a love-hate relationship.
Pulling hair, biting, poking, the works. Sometimes Amie and I just sit back and watch them duke it out, hoping they can work it out before a little mom intervention is needed.
I have to admit it is hilarious.
But just as easily as they are conspiring enemy's, they are unbreakable friends. They forget instantly with a hug and a kiss. It is so great.


And just a word of advice, when Grace is around don't mess with her "hoda" or you will get a three year old smack down word up.

Computer Issues are the story of my life these days, and the reason why I haven't posted any pictures recently.
Is anyone else having trouble with uploading photo's on blogger? Specifically, my computer times out and the "not responding/end program" box pops up.
Is it me or blogger?

You suc.... ceeded

Last Saturday we threw a surprise retirement party for my Dad. 30 years at the County and he could finally enjoy his BBQ chicken and baked potatoes at Vivian Park without worrying about a thing, except for maybe where the butter was. I am so happy for him. You did it Dad!

My summer days have been awesome. Quite lazy to be honest. Eating Popsicles, cherries, garden squash and birthday cake. Digging in the garden naked and jumping on the tramp with the sprinklers underneath (ohhh remember those days?) Enjoying the brief rain and new plants popping up; picking caps off mushrooms in the grass can entertain for hours.. who'da known? Baking in the sun at the pool....Getting Oaklee's first bee sting. Right on the lip. Pretty traumatic and very swollen. I love the warmth.
Bring it on.