*

2010-08-29T21:51:00.001-07:00

I have heard of this happening, but never have experienced it for myself. I have to be honest I never really believe this sort of thing really happened.
Yes he is passed out asleep in the bath tub. He remained asleep while I wrapped his pudgy little body in a towel, put a new diaper on his pudgy little body, and laid his pudgy little body soundly in his crib. He slept like a passed out pudge. This is amazing to me!!

He is sucking on my shower liner for comfort. Yummy and VERY sanitary.
You'll notice the liner also doubles as censor for certain material, who would have known!!

These next few pics are of Oak and her orange addition. Yes I admit I totally accessorized to match her cast. Don't judge, it's been a looonnngg week.

I put in this next pic because it makes me very happy.

2010-08-24T13:02:00.000-07:00

We met with the Orthopedic Surgeon yesterday for Oak's leg and I was so nervous watching his face as he read the x-rays from the insta-care. He looked over at me, I was biting my nails with nervousness , and with a warm smile he simply said "No Surgery." Phew! I let out a deep breath I had been holding since we stepped foot in the building and it felt like a huge weight have been lifted off my shoulders! The next step for Oak was to re X ray her leg, to make sure the break hadn't gotten any worse, and to cast her leg from her upper thigh to the bottom of her toes. The doctor pulled up the x-ray on his desktop and we were able to see an almost 3D image of the break and it was unreal. The x-ray at the insta care didn't even hold a flame to this crisper more life like x-ray. I could clearly see the 2 vertical jagged breaks in the tibia (the larger of the leg bones) one of which stemmed into a horizontal pin sized break up her bone. I couldn't even believe it! She had been so brave the entire 5 days her leg was in the splint, which didn't even secure the break. It really is true that kids adapt and are so resilient in bad situations. She had the sweetest most honest explanation for hurt leg, and her happy attitude never wavered. When it came time to cast her leg the techs asked her what color she wanted her cast and of course ORANGE it was, and is. Big bright hunter orange. She thinks it's pretty awesome. After securing the cast and waiting for the wraps to dry, I noticed an instant sense of security for Oaklee and her leg. We left the doctors office with the sun on our faces and 3 matching smiles! Now, back at home, Oak doesn't cry when you touch or lift her leg. She is no longer choking down some nasty a medicine or afraid to be picked up or carried. Her and our newest orange addition for the next 4 weeks, are happy and simply content. I feel very blessed.

2010-08-21T12:15:00.001-07:00

Here are a few pics of our last few days with Oak's broken leg.
This first one is the FIRST time we have left my bedroom since Wednesday night. No joke. This is progress!

2010-08-19T21:47:00.001-07:00

I finally have a second to compose my thoughts about these last few days, which by the way are pretty jumbled and sleep deprived so here it goes,
Oaklee broke her leg in two places Wednesday morning. It was going to be her first day of preschool. Clothes were laid out on the bed, backpack was waiting by the door, Bridger was snoring in his car seat. We were so ready, and then, just as I was coming into the bathroom to do Oak's hair I heard a scream I will never forget. I ran to her and in a blur I found her in a lump on the floor holding her leg and literally turning purple. I held her in my arms and tried to sooth her as best as I could. I thought maybe she twisted her ankle or had a bad bonk. I gave her Motrin, and for a bit she seemed okay. She wanted to lay in my bed and watch little bear, so we did. But when the Motrin wore off and I tried to stand her up, I knew something terrible had happened. Nothing could have prepared me for what the Insta Care doctor said while holding an x-ray into the artificial light. I only really heard "It's bad" and "possibly surgery." We left the insta care in the pouring rain and purple splint. My poor sweet heart (who had a broken leg for about 6 hours before receiving any real pain medicine) was moaning in her sleep as we pulled into our driveway. Tears rolled down my cheeks like the rain on the car window. After a few doses of her pain medicine, and about 3 in the morning, she finally drifted into a restless painful sleep. My heart literally hurts for her. I want nothing more than to trade places and have me in the purple splint moaning in pain. It is the most horrible feeling. Ever. I know these things happen but I can't help but feel guilty. I can say one thing for certain. She is my hero. She has been so brave and, for lack of a better word, precious. She looks at me with those melt your heart blue eyes and says "I broke my knee huh mom, if I could get up I would just get a band aid, but I can walk, so I can't get a band aid. I just need a little break, then I will feel better." My hero.

2010-07-13T08:59:00.001-07:00

Our summer has been a blast! I haven't had time to upload my photo's, so here are just a few from Amie's camera. I love these two so much!

2010-06-04T12:55:00.000-07:00

Flying high on the tire swing her little legs kick with excitement. She is completely free up there. Free to dream, free to pretend she can reach out and touch the sky, free to feel the wind on her face, free. This memorial day I reflected on our fallen soldiers that give their lives to keep us free. Recently (March 4th) Lance Corporal Nigel Kenton Olsen of my hometown Salem, died in the line of duty. He was 21. While driving down to our cabin over memorial day I saw the country side dotted with American flags and it sparked a memory of driving down the streets of Salem seeing the same American flags lining both sides of the street making a pathway to Nigel's home. I got goose bumps and lump in my throat whenever I saw those flags. He is a hero. Every Man and Woman that takes the call is a hero. You are not forgotten.

"I love my family and I love this land
But tonight this flight's for another man
We do what we do because we heard the call
Some gave a little, but he gave it all

I fly that plane called the Angel Flight
Gotta hero riding with us tonight
Between Heaven and earth you're never alone
On the Angel Flight
Come on brother I'm taking you home"
Lyrics by Radney Foster

Thanks for giving us all the opportunity to create memories like this

2010-05-28T18:43:00.000-07:00

Where to even start? I have no clue! So here are some highlights in our lives lately:

It was quite the journey but I think it's safe to say that Oaklee is finally potty trained! Many tears were shed on our potty training journey. . Mostly mine! I can laugh about it now. Hysterically thinking back to putting the 10th pair of underwear for the day in the washer after just scrubbing the floor on my hands and knee's crying out of frustration and thinking that she was never going to get it and I would have a 10 year old in diapers. But I learned a very valuable lesson from her, even though I was beyond ready for her to be trained, she wasn't. And she had to do it when she was ready.
She is a treat. She constantly makes me laugh. Like the other day when out of the blue she sang "pants on the ground" from American Idol. "looking like a fooo". She has an obsession with princess things. Princess plates, princess jewelry, and her favorite, her princess underwear. She has about 5 of the same pair and every single one is always accounted for.
We recently planted a little garden and she loves to help me keep it up. She carries buckets of water and trudges through the plants and dumps it where ever she thinks needs it, like the only spot in the garden that doesn't have a plant growing. And then says "Mom this is so beautiful."
She loves cupcakes and sprinkles. Swings and books. Nursery, and coloring books. I love her so much.

Bridger is squishy. I absolutely cannot help but pinch his bum when he is naked. And his legs, oh my those legs. He had the same stats as Oaklee at 2 months. 11 lbs 8 ounces. He will be 3 months on the 1st of June and for the life of me I cannot figure out where that time went? He makes me so happy.

Colton got a new job at Nestle and we are adjusting to the difference. It's a lot different schedule but were pretty excited for the change. He is a treat too.

As for me, I am truly enjoying life. (as corny as that sounds). but really I am. Motherhood is an amazing, evolving journey. It is so hard sometimes, but the sweetness of it all is breath taking. I find myself wishing I could freeze time for a moment. Freeze when were all, dogs included, laying on our bed crunching pop corn all over my sheets watching a movie. Or flying each other off our massive bean bag and cracking up. Just the simple times, when were all together.

2010-03-30T15:22:00.000-07:00

So in love with him

2010-03-25T14:47:00.000-07:00

Bridger arrived March 1st 2010 at 11:46 am weighing 6 pounds 3 ounces. I can't complain too much about the delivery, it was, well for lack of a better word, easy! Having an epidural that worked this time around kinda helped :) It amazes me how much I love this new little life. It is something that I cannot explain but it is so beautiful and sacred. I held him in my arms for the first time after his delivery and tears poured down my cheeks. I was washed over with emotions. And everything changed in that moment. A good change. A new life.
As for my little Oaklee, well her world changed too. And she wasn't so sure about if she wanted to keep him or not. In the hospital she said "Mom lets leave him here k?"But just as she is possessive over her play-doh, and books, she has become possessive over her little "bridgey" too. Try and take him and wow. Mother hen comes alive.
Despite the chaos and sleep deprived fog I love where we're at right now.
I can't imagine life without little B.

2010-01-02T15:33:00.000-08:00

Meet little puppy... She doesn't have a name yet... Any suggestions? She came to us on Christmas day. I had no idea she was coming until Santa, aka Grandpa Brent placed her on my lap and said "Merry Christmas!" Well alrighty then. How could I turn down those little faces? It was love at first sight for Oaklee. She has become the proud mother hen of the little fluff. The poor thing is in strollers, baskets, blankets, purses, and once even rescued from the shower. Better learn to run!
All in all, even with the shock of our new addition, It turned out to be a really great Christmas for all of us, and we have so much to be thankful for.

We rung in the New Year with good food and wii in our underwear... I like the way this year is going already.

2009-10-18T16:54:00.001-07:00

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.

2009-10-14T21:24:00.000-07:00

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!

2009-10-06T21:22:00.000-07:00

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.

2009-09-11T13:52:00.000-07:00

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

2009-07-22T14:56:00.001-07:00

"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.

2009-07-08T08:18:00.000-07:00

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?

2009-06-30T15:25:00.000-07:00

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.

2009-05-21T20:16:00.000-07:00

Mom's Bed

Thunder out my window. Rain pelted the window in tiny streams. My heart frantically thudded against my chest. The nightmare still fresh in my mind, I bolted up the stairs as fast as my seven year old feet would carry me. Her door was open, the covers pushed back in the middle.
I had one of "those days". School was hard. Gas light came on while I was driving home. He never called me back. Lots of confusing homework, due tomorrow. I walked through the door and flung my bag on the couch. Down the hall my heavy sneakers walked. Her door was open. Her eyes met mine and she knew, without a word the covers were folded back.
Last night a cry from down the hall. a nudge in the side and Colton bolted out of bed and came back with a confused crying little Oaklee. Fresh tears rolled down her cheeks. I folded down the sheets and she reached for me. She snuggled up to me in the middle of our bed. Her tiny hand touched my arm and the other reached out touching Coltons face.The silhouettes of our eyes met in the dark and and I could see a smile playing on her lips. I was smiling too.

2009-05-06T05:32:00.000-07:00

State College Continued

well here we are 2 weeks later..
Here are some pictures 2 weeks later..
There are plenty of excuses 2 weeks later..
None of them are any good

The above picture is in the Sacred Grove. It was so peaceful and serene. Truly "sacred".

The above picture is 80% the original "Frame House". Joseph Smith and his family moved here after older brother Alvin died.

On the Smith's farm, taking a breather. Love that face...

2009-04-12T12:50:00.000-07:00

State College, PA
is quaint and quiet. From where I sit on the infamous purple couch in Palladino Hall you can hear the sound of occasional laughing from the park and a car whizzing by. You can look out the window to open crystal clear skies and look down the walk to see neighbors bundling up babies in strollers to take advantage of the warm sunshine. It really is so beautiful here. Take a short drive and you'll wind through green trees and beautiful fresh mountain landscapes, dotted with Amish farms and freshly plowed fields. So peaceful; I think I'll stay here a few more days...

2009-03-18T21:08:00.000-07:00

en-light-ened

The sun came streaming through the central window in Grandma's house. a tear soaked tissue lay crumpled in my lap. Words to the hymn "abide with me, tis eventide" echoed in my mind. My heart is full. a dear friend of the family passed away this last Friday and his funeral was today. He will be greatly missed. I was enlightened about life today, and as I watched my sweet Oaklee play in the light of the beautiful day, I am grateful to have the knowledge that she can be mine forever.

2009-03-02T19:53:00.000-08:00

I spoke too soon...
It looks like my days really are numbered here in the duplex, 30 days to be exact. I'm looking around this place drifting back to distant sweet memories. Scrumptious cookie dough in a silver mixer and two heaping spoon fulls for me and hodie. Opening the blinds to let a warm glow devour the living room while one baby learns to walk. Molding myself into the plush bean bag sipping a bubbling Pepsi after a stressful day of life. Watching him walk through the door, muddy boots and snow flakes on the rim of his hat, a cold nose and a warm smile. The sound of the heater kicking on.. Every wall has a memory, every piece of carpet has a foot print we've made. Every tile has an ant... (I had to put that in here, for memory sake)
You will be missed little duplex; the good and the bad. From the ants, and the crunchy leaves, to the laughter and the tears. The humbling experiences you've rendered and, especially not to be forgotten, to every beautiful memory you've helped create...

2009-02-26T21:07:00.000-08:00

Cooped and Pooped

Oaklee and I have been feeling cooped in our little duplex lately. These crazy winter storms have had us (mostly Oaklee... ok maybe I tried it) standing on the back of the couch trying to lick the tiny snowflakes off the frosted glass dreaming of warmer weather. Today we had our chance to bust down the door and welcome the sunshine! We did have to deal with the wind, which Oaklee though was awesome, and I thought was freezing.. but it was a small price to pay to feel the therapeutic warmth of the sun on our faces. We attempted to give tug water and we're trampled by anxious puppy feet and one big bad smelling slobbery tongue..we tried again with a smarter approach of setting oaklee in a tree swing and letting the animal loose while I ran for cover by the shed... Tug was feeling cooped too. We played fetch and put rocks in our pockets and stamped through crunchy leaves and remembered Oaklee's new found love, Gracie's hand me down red boots. I think we may have eaten a twig too.. or was that a worm? Oops... protein right? And then at the end of our adventure, feeling pooped, we welcomed our soft beds, and dreamt of summer, and warmth..

2009-02-19T22:15:00.000-08:00

I have ants in my pants...

well not really..... BUT they are all over my house. Kitchen, Bathroom, leave a crumb on the floor and forget about it, ant fest. Neighbors tell me it's a "Salem" thing, but I don't recall Sang having these little black friends like I do. HELP?

p.s. I have tried bottle ant sprays, ant traps, even forked out some cash to have the duplex's perimeter sprayed with no luck. Am I doomed to be sucking these suckers up for the rest of my days in the duplex?

2009-02-17T21:36:00.000-08:00

Colton and I went to Vegas for Valentines day and it was... interesting. Being the ripe old age of 19 (20 in May) and still pretty "green in the ways of the world" one might ask "why go to Vegas?" Good question.... I'm still trying to answer that one myself. BUT It was nice to get away for a few days by ourselves. We stuffed ourselves full of seafood at a buffet with all you could eat crab legs. HEAVEN. We walked the strip at night and enjoyed the ballagio water shows. I think I could of pitched a tent and spent the night there instead of our cheap, felt like airplanes were flying through our windows, hotel. We ventured in a few flashy casino's and made sure both our feet stayed on the appropriate carpet for the "underaged" guests. haha. We made a stop at the M&M factory and picked out Oaklee some fushca pink and aqua M&M's..We got yelled at by a taxi driver who told us we needed to "LEARN HOW TO DRIVE", maybe he saw our Utah plates on the old beat up Elantra and decided that he would take out his frustrations of the crazy traffic on two innocent little rednecks. His loss because I'm still laughing over it! We saw sleepy lions, and ate in a rain forest. (delicious ribs by the way) We "people watched" (borrowed term from Calee) on the strip and sucked in all Vegas had to offer for us two little rednecks from the country. One little redneck didn't take off his scuffed big farming shoes/boots/whatever these are, proving the old song by Hank Williams Jr to be true "A Country Boy can Survive"... yes even in the city.

***and that's why I love him :)

2009-02-12T18:46:00.000-08:00

Dear Grandma,

I hope my Mom remembered to pack this note I wrote for you in my backpack, we both know she can be forgetful sometimes!
I can't wait to spend the weekend with you and Grandpa while my Mom and Dad are away. I've been dreaming of eating some of your delicious waffles with syrup AND getting as sticky as I want. I can't wait to help you mop your floors and eat princess treats and have you sing silly songs to me in the bathtub. I can't wait to stay up late and play on Grandpa's bed. I can't wait to have you all to myself! I hope you know how much I love you Grandma.

p.s. Don't forget to feed my dog Tug

2009-02-08T17:32:00.000-08:00

I love her SO much.

2009-02-02T15:54:00.000-08:00

Oaklee loves to sit in the sink and have water trickle on her feet. While watching her play one day, I had an idea....

Ok so it's pretty small but still there! She finally has enough (well almost enough) hair to fit in a mullet looking bite size ponytail.. oh the things that make me happy :)

2009-01-12T07:12:00.000-08:00

As I'm thinking about what to say here to explain these photo's, I just can't help but crack up. I think you'll agree when you scroll down that these pictures pretty much speak for themselves..... While I am laughing on the outside, I will say that the little voice inside, the "mom in me" the Sandra if you will, is screaming for WINDEX!

We miss you already Gracie...

2009-01-01T22:40:00.000-08:00

You know how there are some days that just stick out in your mind. Details are clearer, feelings are stronger.. Days that put things into perspective and you feel a true happiness that your exactly where you should be in your life. I had one of those days today.. It wasn't out of the ordinary; Oaklee was in the bathtub and Gracie and Colton were washing her. I was scanning Oaklees room for her "jammies" (p.j's) and looking at my disaster of a house thinking I had my work cut out for me in the morning. I overheard Gracie and Oaklee laughing. I stood outside the bathroom leaning on the door frame watching this precious moment unfold. A huge smile spread across my face. Colton was behind Gracie showing her how to hold this fake fishing pole.. Oaklee was the "Mean Shark" threatening to eat the foam floating alphabet letters. Colton would guide Gracie's fishing pole until it hooked a letter and he would dramatically and hastily pull the letter up and out of the tub while Oaklee laughed as it slipped through her chubby little fingers. And I paused.. I'm not sure what hit me about this moment but it instantly still framed in my mind. I sat soaking up the sweetness and innocence of fishing for alphabet letters. The perspective came into clear view. I am here for a reason, I am a Mom for a reason, and a young one at that. In this stressed filled world with economic downfalls and high anxiety and here we were; in a little 2 bedroom house with our favorite girls laughing at silly alphabet fishing. Pure happiness, honest happiness, real happiness. This moment in time put a smile on my face, and even now I'm smiling.

2009-01-01T21:45:00.000-08:00

I suck times two squared. Here are some Christmas pictures.. I know it's New Years...

High light at Granny Anny's

Princess Shoes

One of her favorite toys, a slinkie go figure

Christmas Cheer

This is how I feel about these pictures Mom

Excited about his new pillow

2008-12-29T15:22:00.000-08:00

Ok so I suck. Here are some pictures of the Neves reunion at the airport, and random pictures from then on. Ya this was like 4 weeks ago..

This picture below was totally staged.. Nice try guys

I have missed you sooo much. Let me just squeeze your head a little

and a little more..

and a Kiss for "Hodie"

sunday best Mac-n-Cheese face bath tub buddies (say that 3 times fast)

sweet endings*

More to come!

2008-12-22T15:24:00.000-08:00

Recently my friend BreAnn took these pics for me. She is just starting her own photography business called Picture You Photography. Check it out! We loved her contagious laugh and eye for detail. Thanks again Bre!

2008-12-09T16:24:00.000-08:00

No Words

It was a typical day. Running out the door with Oaklee on my hip, hair in a crazy bun, forgetting to shut off the bathroom light and dropping Oaklee's sippy cup in the garage. This was all part of the normal daily routine. But one crucial thing was forgotten that day. One 20 pound puppy was left on her in leash inside the house.

I'm sure you can imagine what is next, but first here is a little background before I go any further. Colton is building Tug a dog house. The framing of the house is up, but due to some late working days, the sides and roof of Tug's new house are still under construction. So while Tug's house is put on hold, she is spending the nights with us. I told her when she cuddled up on the bean bag to realize that this was ONLY until her house was finished. This was not permanent. She tilted her head to one side, and starred at me.

Well in my rush to get out the door that day, I buzzed right past tug without even thinking about the devastating results of leaving a teething puppy in the house unsupervised. I went to my Moms' house happy as can be. Oakey and Grace roamed the house. Oaklee swiffered the floor (her new obsession) while Gracie made a house out of couch pillows. We ate lunch and ran to wally world for the necessities; Mickey Mouse shaped cheese and lunchables for Grace. M&M's and yogurt for Oakey. After a day of couch houses and an imacculate swiffered floor, I went home to spend some time with Colt; he has been kind of neglected since Amie came into town.. When I walked through the door my jaw dropped. They're was tug, chewing on a chunk of carpet she had separated from the glue and nails. Carpet pieces were scattered around her like confetti. Then my eyes met the next disaster. She had found the cabel cord that hooks from the computer to the wall. Pretty much it looked like a chewed up licorace rope. Completely obliverated. No salvaging this one. Good bye internet. At least until the cabel guy comes. So for now my blogging is limited to when I'm at my Mom's, when a computer is free and when I'm not chasing and cleaning up after Oakey, which translates to about 1 hour a week, (seriously) and in that hour I want to be spending time with my long lost penslybania (as Grace calls it) toddler. So for a bit, my blogging and pictures will be put on the back burner.

Note to self: Do not leave a puppy, cabel wire, and carpet alone in the same room. Lessoned harshly learned.. This was totally my spacey fault, all in all what can I say? They're simply are "No Words".

2008-11-18T13:45:00.000-08:00

Am I close enough to feel the hay...can I stay here and slide all day?

If I crinkle my nose will it make you laugh?

If I get to close will I take a bath?

Can I squish and spill my mac and cheese?

Can I take this laundry with me please?

I am guilty of naked-ness

it's only a little dirt Mom it wont make a mess

I want to touch and play and grow,
I want to see and feel and know
I want to splash, and laugh and roll
what happens if I put this down that hole?
I want to cry, and bite and say "no!"
I want to feel the cool grass below
I want to gaze at the open sky
I want uncle Chad to throw me up high
I want to see the sun so bright
I want Dad to kiss me goodnight
I am full of wonder and awe
"Life is short, live it up!" to quote my grandma
The simple things in life are worthwhile
so laugh and love, and don't forget to smile.

2008-11-06T20:23:00.000-08:00

Leaves and Tooth Aches

Today I woke up with a throbbing toothache. You know that annoying pain that threatens to ruin the whole day. I heard Oaklee crying in her crib. I went in her bedroom to find her looking up at me, patting her cheek with her chubby little hands. Those big blue, melt your heart eyes, looked up at me with a sad expression. She smiled to see me, but kept patting her cheek. I looked into her mouth to find a crooked jagged little tooth peeking out from her gums. So Oaklee had a toothache too. After breakfast and doses of Tylenol we wrapped up in our favorite blankets on the bean bag and turned on Barney. She laid her head on my shoulder (for 2 seconds) and patted my arm with squishy hands as if to say "I understand what your going through Mom, my tooth hurts too." It those kinds of moments that make any day, a great one.Then she was off the bean bag in .5 and onto the next event. We went outside to get some fresh air and Oaklee collected rocks and leaves of all kinds. It was a beautiful clear day, and we did forget our teeth for a bit.

2008-10-28T19:42:00.000-07:00

5th Generations and a wedding
So my computer is going to blow up. Literally it's just a matter of time before I start feeling the desk shake and see smoke.. We probably should have just bought a new computer when he moved in, but this computer, so lovingly called the "dino" (as in "dino"saur) was free! You can't beat free! So I'm trying to make the best of it and let it hold on a little longer before the dino will be laid to rest. The dino has no more space to hold anything, which is why I have 3 weeks of posting to catch up on....

Oaklee woke up in her crib like this and it cracked me up. I wonder how she managed that one?

My good friend from back in our High School days (I say that like I'm sooo old) got married October 10th. It was a great day, and so special. Congrats Mrs. Harrison!

This pic was at her reception later that night... pretty self explanatory. Long day, tired baby..

This picture was taken on Oaklee's birthday and the dino threaten to eat it so I've had to wait to post it, but I think it's pretty neat! There are 5 generations in this picture. From Oaklee, to her Great Great Grandma and Grandpa Lewis.

2008-10-13T08:56:00.000-07:00

Haunted House nightmare

A little background: I have never been to a haunted house in my life. I see a commercial for haunted houses on t.v. and immediately change the channel. I love Halloween, but always dread when the Haunted Houses open up because I know that it's inevitable that one day I will not be so lucky to avoid it and actually have to walk through one and live out my nightmares. Well that day came Saturday. After dinner at Dalton's, Colton, Sherise, Cole and I were debating on what to do. We always rent a movie and go back to someone's house to watch it so this time we thought we should spice it up a bit. With Oaklee snug as a bug at her Grandma's house, we had all the time in the world, so "Why not go to a haunted house?" My stomach went into a tight not. "Um how about a corn maze!?" Everyone looked at my frightened expression, told me I was lame, and that we were definitely going to a haunted house. I thought about running home, or bumming a ride with some stranger, anything but the Haunted house. The drive to American Fork I was literally sweating, the knot in my stomaching growing bigger with each passing exit. When we arrived at the House I thought I was going to faint, and we weren't even to the door yet. We got our tickets and headed for the line to enter the "Haunted Forest." To make matters worse, while waiting, shivering with fear and bitter cold, these creatures can come up behind you and get in your face and scare the living sh*% out of you, and apparently I was an easy target because I got harassed the whole time. I clung to Colton for dear life as we entered the doors to the spooky mansion. I buried my head in his coat and tried not to cry (seriously!) The forest/mansion was filled with mine shafts that had wet floors and things dangling from the ceiling, clown alleys, and my personal favorite, the chainsaw men. Whenever I would hear the sound of a chainsaw firing up in the distance I would literally think I was going to pee my pants, throw up, and cry simultaneously. I have never ran so fast in my life then when I heard the sound of the chainsaw in my ears. When the living nightmare finally ended, I had lost my voice and my knee's were knocking together from fear. So lessened learned, I will never go to another haunted house in all my life! I will bum a ride at Dalton's on the corner if I have too! Am I the only one with an experience like this!? I'm dying to know!

2008-10-13T08:37:00.001-07:00

Husband Tag
1. Where did you meet? Mr. Moody's History class, Junior year.
2. How long did you date before you got married? 2 years
3. How long have you been married? A little over a year
4. What does he do that surprises you? Puts the lid down on the toilet...
5. What is your favorite feature of his? His eyes
6. What is your favorite quality of his? How hardworking and dedicated he is to our little family.
7. Does he have a nickname for you? Staco
8. What is his favorite color? Blue
9. What is his favorite food? Seafood and Steak
10. What is his favorite sport? He's not a big sports fan, but he loves bull riding!
11. When and where was your first kiss? In his basement....
12. What is your favorite thing to do as a couple? Cook a big dinner, rent a movie, and watch it together on the bean bag.
13. Do you have any children? Yes, Oaklee
14. Does he have a hidden talent? He can cook a mean steak.. he also plays the harmonica (country boy for sure)
15. How old is he? 19
16. Who said "I love you" first? He did...
17. What is his favorite type of music? Country
18. What do you admire most about him? His ability to find the humor in almost any situation, good or bad, and he always finds a way to put a smile on my face.
19. Do you think he will read this? Probably not, he doesn't even know how to get here on the internet!
20. I tag: AMIE yes you.

2008-10-06T13:25:00.001-07:00

Happy 1st b-day Oaklee Mae**
We gathered family, delicious food, and lots of love to celebrate Oaklee's one year b-day. Oaklee's great grandma Connie let us invade her house and pretty much take over with our dishes, decorations, and balloons. It was so rewarding to watch Oaklee on her 1st b-day; tearing blissfully into her cake, helping Dad open her presents, and being with lots of warm family. I couldn't help but have flash backs to this day, one year ago, when the doctor placed a bundle of pink Oaklee in my arms. I was terrified, but I felt the same rewarding satisfaction of love and peace in my heart. Happy Birthday my sweet baby girl*

(above) Not very happy to be restrained for a picture...

(above) Hot Pink decorations....

(above) Delicious food
I totally copied Meagan on the cupcakes.. (thanks Meg! They turned out great!)

(above) Drunk on frosting..

(above) Sweet ending to a happy day...*

2008-09-26T14:54:00.000-07:00

Boring...
As I'm sitting here, eating a raspberry filled powered donut and sipping on Pepsi with Dr. Phil on the T.V. and a blanket over me snuggling into my bean bag, I think to myself, "Stace you are really boring. Look at yourself! Sitting here on the bean bag, consuming who now's how many calories and watching Dr. Phil. You never have really anything exciting to blog about, rarely do you blog, and everyone's blogs are cute and updated." To put my mind at ease, I tell myself that I'm just really "busy" and that's the lack of exciting blogs and fun pictures. Or is it that my computer is really ghetto, or maybe it's because right as we speak I have about 5 loads of laundry and soapy dishes in the sink? I have a million excuses to ease my blog troubled mind. But really it just boils down to, I have nothing exciting to tell really! Life is just as crazy as ever, and we're loving every minute of it. I am famous for summing up what's happened with a gay slideshow of pictures, so today I thought I would think outside the slide show box and actually give an update in writing for the sake of feeling like a good person for keeping this blog updated. So here it goes, hang in there, please try not to fall asleep.
Colton is still working his guts out for Best Vinyl. He recently got promoted to "Finishing Foreman" and recieved a much needed raise. I'm so proud of all his accomplishments, and his determination. He truly has made me a better person by his example and his patience. Not to mention putting up with me. Yikes.
Oaklee is turning one next Sunday! Her days are filled with peek-a-boo, wabbily walking, lots of attitude, reading countless books, playing with tug (our new dog) and lots of exploration. Her new favorite thing is to crawl in the sliding glass door space my t.v. sits on and squish her body into the cubby hole. It's like she's amazed everytime she actually can fit herself in there! She loves food, her grandma's, who spoil her silly, and her new obsession is pointing at everything and going up and down stairs. She continually teaches me new things, and my love for her is unconditional.
Tug or new dog is a lab weimerheimer mix. She is dark chocolate black and a everything a puppy should be. She is hyper, slobbery, and likes to chase me when I feed her. Can you tell I just love her? She was a gift for Colton from me, and I'm not sure how I feel about her yet.... I'm sure with a lot of patience, I will learn to love her. haha
As for me? I am just loving life as a stay at home, nerdy, glasses wearing, pajama's till noon, lunch on the go, dinner at 7, never ending laundry crazy busy Mom. I have recently been taught how to can peaches (I know nerdy right?) and now I kind of want to can everything. I trim Models for my dad's business, and that is my "Job." So that's it! That's the Johnston's summed up for a about another month. I am hoping to become a better blogger, so as to keep some sort of a journal, but you know how it goes!
Thanks for listening...

2008-09-17T12:53:00.000-07:00

Capital P*I*L*L

I think Gracie and Oaklee must have some "spunky" genes they inherited from Mom or something! Today I asked Oaklee if she wanted to go to bed, and she literally stopped what she was doing (eating cheerios in her car seat) looked up at me with those big blue eyes, pursed her lips together and clearly said "No". She said it almost like she knew exactly what I was asking her. So out of curiosity I asked her again "Oaklee do you want to go ni night?" again she looks up at me and says "No." I'm like ok you don't know what I am asking you to do, and you definitely don't know what NO means yet!!! Then she fell asleep in her car seat covered in cheerios, and apparently she only ate a few, judging by how many were left over in the car and her car seat. She also had them stuck to her cottage cheese bum and legs, in her hair, and a few stuck in her rolls. When we got home from various errands, I took her out to put her down for a nap. Ever so gently, like an unknown art form, I un-buckled her straps, delicately picked her up careful not to wake her, and my goal was just to make it to her crib.. Please oh please! I tiptoed all the way, and she stayed asleep, until, of course, I laid her down in her bed and then POOF perfect timing, her eyes open up and she smiles at me. I James Bond style roll out of her room, trying not to be seen, but it was too late. She stood up and said, "Ma ma?" My own personal cryptonite. How can you resist that? So after my delicate mission had failed, I get her out of prison and we go upstairs to play. I gave her a cup of lucky charms to occupy her interest making note to only put a very few marshmallows in the mix because I know how much of a sugar high she would get and the little ideas that would formulate in her head of what to do with the marshmallows, like squish them ect. I was oblivious to her dumping out all her lucky charms and squishing them in the carpet, occasionally eating a few. I look up from the computer to this little mischievous grin on her face and she has marshmallows stuck to her lips, and smeared all over her face is left over bright green, red, and yellow marshmallow goo. There are lucky charms everywhere on the floor, crunched and smooshed into the carpet like glue. No wonder she was being so quiet! I wonder what her little brain was thinking when she was doing all this? Today she has been nothing short of a PILL! I'm sure we are just in the beginnings of the naughty pre-toddler stage of curiosity and "I wonder what will happen when I do this?" mind set... GREAT..
*Not to self: Toddlers and Lucky Charms don't mix.

Just a little story of a day in the life of Oaklee...
*I would have pictures but my ghetto computer is not cooperating, so just picture a little devil with pig tails... JUST KIDDING..

2008-07-15T12:01:00.000-07:00

Craziness*
So it's been about a month since I have blogged, I have no excuses except for I feel like summer has been crazy! There has been a baby learning how to crawl, watch out, Josh's Graduation party, Grandpa Bart's 40th b-day party, 4th of July, Gracie's b-day party, one year anniversary, and all the day to day in between craziness! Here is a look into what we've been doing this past month..

2008-06-10T14:45:00.000-07:00

Pool Party*
Amie and I have been itching to get a pool for the girls, and today couldn't have been a better day to be outside, so we made a quick trip to Walmart for sun screen and this blow up pool and we headed out into grandma's backyard. The weather was perfect and we all had a great time being in the much needed sunshine!This is all Oaklee wanted to do... eat the sides..

and this is all Gracie wanted to do... roll her eyes at me when I tried to get a pic

and they both are in their own little worlds and stages which means getting pictures of them TOGETHER, was like pulling teeth! oh well at least we tried!

Who's bigger?... haha Oaklee takes the cake, and would probably eat it too!*

2008-06-03T08:16:00.000-07:00

Finally a light at the end of the tunnel.. *

For the last 2 weeks, Oaklee just hasn't been acting the same. She would bug her ears, throw up, have a constant running nose, and other attributes of the "common cold." These symptoms went on for a couple of days, with no fever. It is when the fever came along that I got worried. After going to the doctor, Oaklee's diagnosis was an ear infection and possible sinus infection, and a prescription for Augmentin. I thought that in a few days we would be back to normal... (whatever normal means) So I gave Oaklee the Augmentin... If she was not throwing it up, it was coming out the other end and I mean bad. Along with the nasty symptoms of a cold, she now had what was like the flu. I called the nurses concerned about her bleeding, painful diaper rash, and each time they would tell me to just finish the prescription and get her acidopholus for her diarrhea. After about the 4th day of constant morning and night diarrhea, I called back the nurses. It seemed as though Oaklee was getting worse, and not better! They gave us a new prescription and told me that obviously Augmentin is too harsh for Oaklee stomach... At least we learned that in all this!! After the old antibiotic cleared her system, and the new one kicked in, I started to see improvements! Thanks to Amie and Josh's Nebulizer, we made it through lots of long nights. Also thanks to Grandma for letting Oaklee sleep over while her mom and dad got much needed sleep, and thanks to Amie and her witch doctor methods, (garlic oil??) I think Oaklee is finally feeling better! YES!

Colt giving Oak her Nebulizer Treatment ....

and playing with her to make her forget she's sick

and having some much needed relaxation time on the bean bag together.. (nice farmers tan...sexy)

and most importantly, making her smile... Thanks colt for all your help, your such a great dad!
P.S. Just a reminder to give me your e-mail address's so when I go private, we can still keep in touch!

2008-05-30T10:00:00.000-07:00

*A Little More Safe

So I was watching the news the other night, and this story came on about a creepy man that followed a three year old little girl around in Wal Mart, and it made me realize even more that this world is a scary place, (even at wally world) so it is about time my blog became a little more secure, I don't want just anybody looking at our family, or some creepy Wal Mart man... so if you want to continue viewing our blog, give out your e-mail address or e-mail me, I will be going private in a week, so please e-mail me asap so we can continue to keep in touch! Thanks!*
p.s. I'm very computer illiterate, so I hope this will work! ha let me know...

2008-05-18T15:45:00.001-07:00

If only money grew on trees...

Colton and I have an inside joke about having a money tree in our backyard, and today is his 19th b-day so I thought it would be perfect to have one for a day! Happy b-day Colt, we love you!

2008-05-11T19:01:00.001-07:00

Reflection*
Looking back at my past year, and being Mothers day and all, I can't help but be floored at the amazing changes that have happened in my life. Tears fill my gaze as I think back to when sweet Oaklee was born, and all the lessons she has taught me in her short 7 months of life. Being a young Mom at first was like being in a chopping , wave thrashing ocean. It knocked me down a few times, completely thrashing me with all it's fury; I lost view, I slipped under breathless and exhausted, but what pulled me through was that little glimmer of light, much like a light house to a weary fisherman. That little light in Oaklee's eyes, and that beautiful smile radiated through the pounding waves and somehow brought me to shore, to safety. I watch her grasps her toys, as simple as a spoon, and her eyes fill with wonder and amazement. I watch her learn new things and how she gets joy out of the simple things in life and she constantly amazes me with what she brings out in me. It is humbling to think of where I was, scared and anxiety ridden, to where I am now, excited for each new day and full of love. I cant help but reflect back to some 14 months ago in the fetal position on my bed consumed in self guilt and so ashamed; tears dampened my pillow and face, a sisters embrace and mothers kiss told me everything would be ok. And it is.
I am so grateful that such a sweet spirit was entrusted to me. She is one of my favorite things to kiss goodnight and wake up to in the morning. You know, life can be crazy sometimes, if for sure still is for me and some times I still get knocked down, but it's in those moments when you find yourself, and your potential, and essentially what you were put here for. I never regret a single day of the life I lead now, and I couldn't and wouldn't trade it for anything. I love and embrace being a Mom, and Happy Mothers day to all you hard working, love filled Moms, you have an amazing job, and each day is beautiful--

2008-04-28T20:50:00.000-07:00

*Farewell to 1229

I had mixed feelings standing on the sidewalk looking up at 1229. The shuttle van had arrived to take us to Dulles International. As we loaded our luggage I couldn't help but marvel at the beautiful home we would probably never come back to. The quaint little green 2 story house in the middle of a bustling city, had been one of the most memorable places I'd ever visited. Our short stay in Washington was again, another amazing culture and history feast for me. I am amazed at all there is to see and do, and especially, what there is to learn in DC. We again traveled to the Lincoln Memorial, White House, Korean War Memorial, World War II Memorial, and the Washington Monument to name a few. Every site unique to it's history. The Lincoln Memorial is quite the humbling site. To stare up into the marble statue of President Lincoln's face you can't help but be washed over with a sense of gratitude at the tasks the 16th president completed, that changed our nation. We got to experience some of the sights in the DC rain (it was awesome and freezing!) I have NEVER experienced a rain like this. Literally sheets and sheets came down on us. Amie stayed home with the babies, and when I came home she said it looked like I took a bath with all my clothes on! It doesn't rain like that in Utah!
Another highlight was Eastern Market. Being that I love food, you could always find me drooling over the pastries, and fresh shrimp. My mom made an awesome Sunday dinner to celebrate Amie and Josh's completion of there "nerve racking" talks they had to give and didn't dodge (even though it was their last week in the ward! Sucka's!) I wanted to experience a ward outside of Utah, and I truly felt a unique spirit in the atmosphere of their amazing ward with devoted members. Gracie and Oaklee had lots of baths, (of course) and time together, which is precious to me. It was such a great week and I hope someday, my travels will bring me back to beautiful DC.

2008-04-13T15:19:00.000-07:00

*BeSt sUrPRiSe EVER!
DC HERE I COME! Better yet GRACIE HERE I COME! oh and Amie and Josh too :) I got the best surprise from my Mom yesterday. My Mom, Dad, Bro Chad, His GF Micah, and Colt (going on a Turkey hunt) Will all be gone next week. I was kind of feeling sad thinking, "What am I going to do all by myself for 5 days!?" I think my mom could read my mind. I came to her house yesterday and she said "So... you have Oaklee's stroller right?" "Yes" "and you have a pack and play right?" "Yes??" I still didn't get it... Very nonchalantly my mom said "Ok so all you need to do is pack your bags and be at the Airport on Wednesday" It took a moment to register.... "For what?" then It finally clicked! So Amie, Josh, and Grace.. get ready for Oaklee and I to rock your world cause here we come!
Thanks mom I love you!

2008-04-08T20:01:00.000-07:00

*100th Percentile

I have been a slacker lately when it comes to posts. I think it has part to do with the craziness of our past week. Now that the chaotic atmosphere is fading, I can get back to sitting in my favorite chair of our house, and relieving stress with my new addiction (blogging!) Oaklee had her 6 month check last Friday. The nurses did the routine head, length, and weight measurements. Weeks prior to this I had noticed that Oaklee seemed to be getting heavier to carry. When people would ask me how much she weighs I would say "Oh 16, 17 pounds" I was used to this, she has always been a chubby baby, however I about fell off my chair in the doctors office when she told me Oaklee was in the 100th percentile for her weight topping the baby scale at 2o pounds! 6 months old! I had never heard of the 100th percentile before! No wonder my back and arms are sore at the end of the day. I also made mention in earlier post that Oaklee got her ears pierced. I was very reluctant to this idea, however pressure from Amie caved my walls, and the bribe that I could stay in the car to avoid Oaklee sure to be heart broken cries tempted the offer. After posing as Oaklee's mom, Amie and Oaklee came out of the store just as they went in, smiling from ear to now pierced ear! That made me feel better! Also to continue on in my vainness, Oaklee has her 2 bottom teeth. After weeks of pee-a-boo they finally broke through the gums, which is a relief, they looked painful! Well that is our life in a nutshell!
**and p.s. to answer Bobbi's question.. Coltons exact words were as he first noticed her earrings "So has Oaklee had her ears pierced for a while?" haha He didn't even notice, it kills me! I was like "ohhhh ummm ya she has!" JK but he thinks their cute!

This slide is for you aim!!!!

2008-04-04T14:53:00.000-07:00

*Catch Up

As most of you know, Amie and Gracie came to Utah to surprise my dad and celebrate Amie's 25th birthday. It was bittersweet to watch Grandpa and Gracie see each other for the first time in months. I'm sorry for all of you that wanted video, but I couldn't capture this precious moment and post it due to the fact that it was special to my dad to keep it between him and Gracie, so out of respect I will keep it that way. He was so surprised to see his bubbling sassy Granddaughter waving and yelling "baaa paaa" on the porch as he pulled in our driveway. He had to blink the confusion away a few times to make sure she wasn't a figment of his imagination. We loved listening to Gracie's new vocabulary and witnessing her little sassy attitude. Oaklee would watch Gracie intently and smile her whole face smile as Gracie would run around my Mom's living room. Our week consisted of ear piercing (Oaklee's) nights out with friends (big thanks to Meg for letting us invade her house) and lots of family time in the living room just watching Gracie. Mom's house is empty without the running, talking, squealing, and sass filled Gracie. We already miss you guys!!

Side note* Sorry for the lack of more interesting pictures and ones with Gracie and Oaklee together. Amie and I were sick with a cold and my mom is digitally challenged. I have lots of excuses, but we were crazy busy that week!!

2008-04-02T17:16:00.000-07:00

Happy "Late" Birthday you piece of crap!

*We Love and miss you

2008-03-19T16:43:00.000-07:00

Spring is in the Air*

It was hard to resist not being outside today, The weather was so nice. It made Oaklee and I have spring fever! We took these pictures in her Easter dress out on the lawn. She loved watching the cars go by, and looking up at the bright blue sky. Spring can't you come already?

2008-03-13T14:29:00.001-07:00

High Maintenance Woman
You never realize how high maintenance a baby can be until they're sick. Between diaper rashes, desitin, Tylenol every 4 hours, humidifiers, washing sheets, and all the other accommodation's that come with being sick, who has time for anything else? Here is a brief look into our lives the past week...

* we had to have our warm baths and favorite teething rings , they were a must...

No swing or crib for me, I am only content relaxing with dad.. my favorite past time....

Talking to mom?? Overated... I made a new friend who would lay on the floor with me and let me talk to them all day... I had the sneaking suspicion they didn't quite understand me... (you speaka english?)

But in the end, high maintenance or not, I came out smiling... (even if I did wake up in just my diaper in my crib because my dad got up with me during the night...???)

And who knows... maybe just maybe... I might be getting some teeth! Watch out mom

2008-03-06T17:44:00.000-08:00

Welcome Home

Two weeks ago in church Colton and I left sacrament to go home because Oaklee was beyond reconciliation, being that our church is at nine and she needed a nap. As we put Oaklee in her car seat to go home, she stopped crying and fell asleep. We decided to stay at church, since there really was no reason to leave. While in Primary, my now next door neighbor approached me and told me the duplex next to hers has just gone up for rent. I was excited as she described it to me. As soon as she said two bedrooms, I was in!! We called the landlord that night. He called us back a few days later and told us to come check out our new home! We were so excited when he placed the keys into Colton's hands! I now realize that there was a reason we stayed at church that day!
*more pictures are on the way, as soon as the craziness of moving settles in!*

2008-02-24T21:09:00.000-08:00

"Should" be sleeping
Oaklee has just discovered her voice and she loves to use it all the time. In the tub, at home, at nap time, and my favorite, at church. :) Lately, her very favorite time to work her pipes is at nap time. This is what she does when I put her down.. (listen to video) Even though she's a PILL at nap time, I can't help but love the little person she is becoming, and her blooming personality that is growing each day. She cracks me up.

2008-02-21T00:52:00.000-08:00

2008-02-20T17:52:00.000-08:00

Gracie and Oaklee having some much needed bonding time

2008-02-18T13:57:00.001-08:00

WASHINGTON D.C. VACATION

Wow, what can I say? Last week was CrAzY! It included lots of stroller rides on the metro, Oaklee's beloved baths with Gracie, me sleeping on a blow up mattress in Gracie's room, (meanwhile Oaklee slept in the hallway) blowing the power to Amie's whole house more than once with all of our blow dryers and straighteners, adjusting to the time change, (especially for Oaklee), and lots of other exciting adventures. However, despite all the chaos, every minor sacrafice has been well worth it to spend time with the people we have missed the most; Amie, Gracie, and Josh. It was so refreshing to be back in D.C. again, and this time with Oaklee. Amie was a great hostess. Finding a place for 2 babies and 4 adults to sleep, and finding room for all of our luggage and crap. (an accomplishment she should be proud of!) Josh was an excellent taxi cab, making numerous trips back and forth from one place to another folding up strollers and buckling in car seats just so we can go somewhere as simple as out to dinner. Not to mention he put up with 5 women for a week (scary). Going back to D.C. made it even more clear how much I miss these guys!! Especially my little buddy gracie. I cannot believe what a change 5 weeks can make when you don't see someone you love. She is growing up so fast, and adding lots of new words to her vocabulary, including "Here you go", "I love you" and "Hippo eats apples" ( a little random, but she loves the hippo at the Zoo). I was way sad to leave a waving, blowing kisses, clueless Gracie and sad Amie on the doorstep to their apartment, but happy to know that they come HOME (home=~~UTAH~~ thats for you Josh,.. just kidding) soon

2008-02-10T14:46:00.001-08:00

Weekend Getaway To Homestead Inn

On a spur of the moment decision, (I'm talking Friday afternoon) Colton came to me with the idea to getaway for the weekend. We both needed some relaxation time (who doesn't?) and decided that we wanted to go visit Park City where we went on our honey moon. I think we both forgot that it is snowboarding and skiing season, and every Hotel we looked into was booked, accept for the Homestead Inn. I know that it sounds kind of redneck, but it is a little gem in the mountains. It is very roomy, with a cottage like feel instead of a hotel room. Anyone wanting to get away, I highly recommend to go here. Not only do they have a jetted tub in your room that fits two ;)... they also have an amazing dinner menu with delicious food that can be delivered right to your door in 30 minutes or less. Colton and I being both cold and lazy (check out the snow in the picture) ordered food to our room both nights and ate in bed in our Pj's. I was in heaven! All in all it was a very relaxing weekend and an awesome valentine present! wink wink to the husbands out there.. just kidding.

2008-02-07T10:09:00.000-08:00

LiTtLe VaLeNtInE

Today Oaklee and I decided to take valentine pictures since we will be leaving for D.C next Wednesday. These pictures were my best effort! The only thing she wanted to do was eat (surprising) and fall asleep, o well at least we captured the moment, or tried :) the big red splotchy thing in her picture just above, is a rose petal; Lol I tried to scatter them around her, but as you can clearly see, that didn't work so well!

2008-02-04T21:29:00.000-08:00

Attempting the Rollover*
Ok So I know that is really nerdy to get so excited about something as simple as rolling over, but I absolutely love to watch Oaklee lay on her tummy and try to roll over. She gets her arms in position, and then gets high centered by her fat belly!! She squills in frustration and it is so cute!!

2008-02-04T21:24:00.000-08:00

*OuR TiNy GiFt*

2008-02-04T21:01:00.001-08:00

BATHTIME

One of Oaklee's favorite times of day is bathtime!! She loves to kick, splash, play, and relax. I think these pictures pretty much speaks for themselves!

2008-02-04T01:25:00.000-08:00

I have been wanting to create a blog forever and I finally kicked it in the butt and decided to "try" and make one. I say try because I suck at stuff like this!! (Amie aren't you proud?) But I've decided that staying in touch with friends and family is very important to Colton and I, since those family and friends have been there for us in our times of need.
Sheesh where to start? Colton and I have known each other since we were both juniors in high school. We met at Spanish Fork High School (how romantic) in history class. Colt was always the one peeking over my shoulder to get answers, and I never turned him away! I remember one specific time that Colt gave me a ride home one night after we had just hung out for only the 2nd time and called me 5 minutes later to tell me I "forgot my coat" when really it was July and I had no coat with me... but I played along and now here we are! Colton and I were married July 6th 2007. In October of that same year entered in our little blessing Oaklee Mae Johnston. She was born on October 5th at 12:37 in the morning after 1 hour of labor, (yes one hour) and 10 intense minutes of pushing in which my epidural had worn off. Just my luck, but it was love at first sight. She was 6 pounds 9 ounces and 17 1/2 inches long. My doctor has told me that she has never seen a labor so fast, and that my next baby I better plan on being at the hospital days in advance! (no worries that wont happen anytime soon,) Oaklee has changed our lives in many ways. I really understand what it means to be unselfish, loose sleep, (which I'm sure alot of you understand) and have unconditional love for such a little person. I've learned many lessons from my now 16 pound miracle that I never would have learned had she not been here. God works in mysterious ways! She brings so much joy into our life, and I can honestly not imagine where we'd be without her!