The Cunninghams

Oh, what those little ears pick up...

2011-09-24T02:56:00.000-06:00

Thursday: I'm getting several questions from Kate, "Mom, when did you start losing your teeth?" "How old were you when you lost your first tooth..." "Mom, so how old were you again?"

"Kate, why are you asking me all these questions? You'll have plenty of time to loose your teeth... Just be patient!"

Thursday: "Mom, I have a loose tooth!"

Friday morning: After breakfast (and a little encouragement from the wiggle monster, KATE!)

One Tooth OUT! Look Out Tooth Fairy! I am waiting for you!!

Kate sneaking a peak at her new chicklets. She got annoyed with me taking pictures.... so I tried to be super stealth- I couldn't resist sneaking in this shot while she was distracted.

Saturday Morning: Tooth Fairy Came....

Sunday (at Birthday party at Grandma's House): Kate confessess on the carride home that she heard Gramma Goose and Aunt Brooke talking about what a "BIG GIRL" Kate is now that she's lost her first tooth. "See, mom. I TOLD ya!" (Like this softens the blow.)

*We are now doing routine checks to all her teeth to see which one will pop out next. (I confess, this obsession comes from her mother. I wiggled every tooth out of my cute little mouth so I could have braces by 3rd grade. Off by 6th- best looking teeth at Farmington Jr. High School, hands down!)

Welcome to the Family, Red

2011-08-25T22:59:00.008-06:00

MEET RED!

aka ROJO!!!!

After all the loss we've suffered over the last few months, Codye and I decided we were gonna wait awhile after losing Abbye til we got another dog. We settled on getting a small dog, one Codye wouldn't be allergic to. But we again, we were gonna wait.
Well, Codye left town (over our 7 year anniversary no less!!) and got to come home to an addition to the family...

Red's mother was a schnauzer, his father was a German Shephard. He was born right around the time Ty was born- so, he's 9 months old. He has been a dream pup- rough start, but we made it through the first few weeks...

UNDER CONSTRUCTION

2011-06-07T02:49:00.004-06:00

this blog is very fun for me. However, it is in DIRE need of a makeover. Please sit tight and enjoy the music while I get this bad boy under control. I have TONS of pictures of the littlest one and many, many more of the older two- who, in my eyes, are just starting to really shine..
If you've gone private, I have recently changed your email, so please let me know if you will honor me with your secret handshake and an invite... my email is now jennthehencunningham@gmail.com (Jenn the hen. but no spaces. Jenn with 2 n's. Hen with 1. Confusing to some, simple to others...)
We will be back up and rockin and rollin' and showing off all our good times soon!
Love to all. Thanks for the crazy amounts of prayers love and support for the Dad that may not have been present at my birth, but was there all the times it mattered. :)
love&mush,
jenn
(the mother of 3 who is behind in more than just her blogging)

Welcome Ty-guy

2010-11-22T13:04:00.008-07:00

He's here! Our little Tyler Vern Cunningham. In between moving and having a BABY, life's been a little too crazy to blog. But here's a pic and update.

This is Tyler. He joined our family on Wednesday, November 10, 2010. He was the perfect delivery- 12 minutes after the doc walked in the room and only 3 pushes! He weighed 7 lbs. 2 oz. and was a nice 20". A full head of hair (dark and wavy!!) and already so strong. He had all the nurses swooning.

I'll get a few more pictures up, but for now, this will have to do.

Kate & Johnny are in love. They are AMAZING with the newest member of the family! It makes my heart turn to butta. Our little family just keeps getting bigger and bigger!!

To My Mom

2010-10-15T21:08:00.004-06:00

There are only so many nice things I do in a year.

There are even less nice things I do during a year when I'm pregnant.

Mom, I love you to pieces and think the world (even if it is just MY world) needs to know about you.

http://lewwisgirls.blogspot.com/2010/10/happy-birthday-mom.html

Happy Birthday, Mom. You may be old, but people still insist I look like you. So I will tell you in all honesty that you are beautiful to me in every way possible.

Best candid shot ever. See? Beautiful.

I'M A BIG KID NOW!

2010-09-21T15:42:00.003-06:00

Meet Johnny.

Johnny is 2 1/2 years old.

Johnny LOVES to wrestle, rough & tumble.

Johnny is about to become a big brother.

Johnny already has a sibling, but she is older and a girl and well, wimpy.

Johnny sleeps in a big boy bed.

Johnny can make the sound of almost any animal, as well as any vehicle (his favorite being the sound of a diesel "HONK!!!! HONK!!!!").

Johnny can say many words. He chooses, however, not to.

Johnny has decided to start wearing underwear and start using the toilet.

Johnny loves to not wear underwear and just play with his ding-dong as long as mom is too lazy to get some underwear on him.

Johnny does a great job going "EEEEE" (that's what he calls #1) and getting it into the toilet.

Johnny pretends he has to EEEEE so he can get out bed at bedtime.

Johnny was terribly afraid of going "OOPY."

Terribly.

Today, for the first time EVER, initiated by him, Johnny went "OOPY... PLOP!" in the toilet.

Johnny's mommy was very happy.

Johnny's sister was very happy.

But most of all, JOHNNY was very happy.

Way to go, Big Boy! We knew you could do it!

(and yes, Johnny's mommy made him sit there after doing it so she could grab the camera and get a picture of this VERY proud moment!!)

The Perfect Pet

2010-09-10T14:28:00.003-06:00

As anyone who knows me knows I would live on a farm and have cows, goats, chickens and horses, besides the obvious dogs, cats, and sheep. Unfortunately, I have learned that having children is all that I am capable of managing (with the assistance of Prozac and the occasional xanax).

After our tragedy with our cat, Joe, I realized that I was a grown-up (weird that it just occurred to me) and that I could mourn our loss AND STILL have another kitty. After all, Maggie cat did lose her brother. She needed a companion. And my Dr. Doolittle instincts told me that she needed one quick.

As if kismet, Dexter came into our lives. He is a 3 month old, sweet, soft and cuddly, orange kitty with the social skills of President Obama (I’m hoping that this is taken as a good thing. I mean, the man did convince enough of the nation to elect him president). Dext has really brought with him a whole lotta sunshine to our family. Maggie, Abbye, Codye and of course the children have all been given the “okay” to pet, cuddle, snuggle and drag him around like a rag doll. Dext has proven himself the perfect fit in our crazy little family.

So far, my luck of picking out my own pets has been a rather awesome experience. (**Let’s just hope that in 6 months I’m still feeling this way. )

(Oh, did I mention he was litter trained when we got him? HUGE perk. Especially since I’m already training ONE member of the family how to use the proper facility!)

2010-09-04T23:46:00.001-06:00

Baby News

2010-08-04T10:04:00.006-06:00

So, I've been called on this already. Yes, I took the no-fun easy out and we did indeed find out the gender of our baby.

I asked my sunday school class to vote- should we or should we not. They were split- 50/50.

So I put the ball entirely in Codye's court. Fully expecting him to go the "let's not find out" route. Much to my surprise, which after 6 years of marriage he still is very good at, he said, "Let's confirm what I already know."

So we found out.

Kate and Johnny are going to be such good big siblings to their baby brother, James Leroy.

(And with kids as cute as mine, how can I resist!)

Robin Hood: The Snake

2010-06-11T18:26:00.003-06:00

My Snake Story

by Kate Cunningham

The other day, I was cruising down the sidewalk on my scooter and I noticed a FAKE snake in the rocks next to the sidewalk. I told my mommy about it and she screamed from across the street “DON’T TOUCH IT! STAY BACK!!”

I didn’t realize what her overreaction was about until she came over and we became aware that it was indeed not a fake snake. He was very real and very alive.

I wanted to catch it and since my mommy has never been able to catch a snake, she accepted the challenge. So with daddy’s bbq tongs and a steady hand, she poked and prodded and eventually caught that snake.

Since he was our pet, I named him, not “Sir Hiss” the snake, but ROBIN HOOD. Robin Hood the snake.

We knew that daddy wouldn’t believe that mommy did it, so we put him in a cage until he got home.

Boy, was he ever impressed with mommy.

Eventually the snake was released back into his natural habitat. Mommy said “No snakes in the house!” I guess she’s not a TRUE animal lover as I’ve always been led to believe.

The end.

And the baby is...

2010-06-11T12:18:00.002-06:00

So, we really aren't finding out. But don’t worry. Keep the guesses coming.

When you have one of each, don't you just hope for healthy? That's really all I need to know with this one. I'm only 15 weeks, so, hang tight. J (I just love this birth announcement. it tricked ya, huh!)

Well Look at what the sweet hubby got me

2010-06-05T13:46:00.003-06:00

He got me pregnant, so to make up for it,

he got me this. I think we're good now...

(yeah, due date is December2nd.

Don’t say congrats until she’s here. I’m still in denial.)

Tea anyone?

2010-05-18T09:34:00.000-06:00

You know you're about to miss something exciting when your 4 year old says, "MOM! Get the camera out!"

Kate and Johnny made my day.

Tea party table... $8.00
Tea set... $5.00
Playfood... gift from sis across country, I think at least $3.00
Watching them have fun together without adult interference....

PRICELESS.

HOPPY EASTER

2010-04-05T23:35:00.004-06:00

OK, so it's not an Easter pic, but how cute is my little bunny in her shopping cart. I wore these silly ears down three, maybe 4 aisles before she even noticed I had them on. So then, of course, she wanted to wear them. I'm hoping with a little more practice, she'll be the perfect model for grandma kitty-cat's business, Chisty's Photography. I'm sorry- I can't plug her business enough. She is so amazing. And not just because I'm her doil (daughter-in-law). As soon as I get a compilation of the pictures she's taken for me over the years, I'm going to do a 30-page-tribute to her amazing talent. Love her and her talent.

Back to business: Hope everyone had a happy HAPPY Easter. We had a blast. Apparently the Easter Bunny tried to skip our house because the kids were up so late dying eggs with our cute neighbor kids, but fortunately for all, DADDY is very close, personal friends with Mr. Easter Bunny (or as Kate lovingly calls him, the Easter RABBIT) and convinved him to come back to our house once the kids went to bed. The kids got to eat candy all day on Sunday (which was PERFECT for calming them down enough to watch 4 hours of church on tv (also known as General Conference). Yeah right, I wish.

More Pictures coming soon. I know I say that a lot, but with our main level almost painted and put back together, I'm getting really excited to start showing off the work that may end up killing me.... What can I say- I am a tan/taupe/camelback with two-tone baseboards-kind-a-girl. The colors are turning out to be just incredible and it's all coming together and our little house is starting to really feel like OUR HOME!!! YEAH!!!!

HOPPY EASTER! WE LOVE YOU ALL!!!

The Princess finally loves her room

2010-03-28T09:50:00.003-06:00

Ok, so it's not 100% done, but we're definitely on our way. We still have to get a small bookshelf and a PINK chair. And of course, hang the pictures. But I think it's lookin' good. Too bad I don't have a fun vision for Johnny's room!

Project KATE's ROOM

2010-03-27T10:59:00.003-06:00

This is just a small sample of what we've been up to lately:

This is Kate's room- we have successfully painted the 3 walls a BEAUTIFUL (after 2 attempts) yellow and we are doing a small garden under her window. This is just the grass. I'm sorta proud.

And this is the canopy that will dangle down from the ceiling over the head of her bead. Yes, that's a hula hoop holding it all together. She is so excited for it to be done. And she's been really patient through it all.

More to come as the project gets completed. :)

We're back!

2010-03-22T23:48:00.003-06:00

Well, soon we will be. But our computer's fixed (THANK YOU RANDY!!!!) and I've got tons of pictures to post. Hooray! My life just got so much happier. Cheers to all and I'm excited to read everybody else's posts to see what's going on. (LIFE WITHOUT A COMPUTER IS SOOOOOOO DIFFICULT!)
-jenn

My Gratitude List for today

2010-01-25T12:46:00.004-07:00

I need to stop freaking out at my kids (we're all sick) and get myself in better spirits. Here's my attempt. I'll let you know if it works (I should be feeling better by the end of my list!)

I am grateful for 2 healthy kids. Usually healthy. My kids are sick less than any kids I know and I'm grateful for their good health.
I am grateful for a husband who really could write a book on how to parent. He knows how to encourage "alone time" with just the 2 of us, how to make each child feel important and spends quality one-on-one time with each of them. He knows how to show the kids how much he loves me and the importance of respecting their "mum."
I thankful I've got to grandpa-sit Ole 2x a week over the past few months. It's been a learning experience. Difficult, challenging, yet at the same time very rewarding. I know this is ridiculous, but I love that he uses his foot to find me in the bed to make sure I'm there- it makes me feel like he and Ida (grandma) had an incredible 60-some odd years together.
I'm also grateful that I have this week off from grandpa-sitting. :)
I love teaching Sunday school. My kids all seem to be neat kids and I'm grateful for a calling with the youth. (14-15 year olds.)
I am thankful for my home. I love having a home. The master bed and bath alone make living out in the boom docks worth it. (A yard would be awesome, but really, who has it all?)
I'm thankful for my ability to decorate and a husband who wouldn't notice if the house was upside down or right side up. He always encourages me to "do what I do" by saying I've made our house a home and compliments my style.
And he is always trying to encourage my green thumb. We have fun with real-life plants. And when they do well, everyone is happy. (We're growing herbs in the bathroom. Pictures will be coming soon, I'm sure. It's very big for me!)
I'm thankful I made it for a bike ride last night. I really need to pick up my 2010 goal of getting in shape and fit. So last night, I bundled up and put reflectors all over me and the dog and we went for a good bike ride. I felt so good afterwards. (It's hard to want to do outdoor fitness activities with 2 sick kids. I mean, the bike trailer is warm, but I just can't justify doing that to them!)
My bike, my long underwear and my warm winter boots. I keep so nice and warm outside.
I'm thankful for the tanning pass my sweet thoughtful husband got me for Christmas. I love it. 1x a week, if that, and my mood is instantaneously better.
Honey crisp apples. For anyone who's ever had one, you know what I mean.

Johnny & Kate. I'm really scraping here. But I do love when they start wrestling each other and just giggle endlessly. It is a sweet relationship most of the time. I never EVER understood why my mother would say the only she wanted for (insert any holiday here.... Mother's Day, Christmas, Birthday, 4th of July) was for her 4 girls to get along. It makes life worth living to see the little ones get along.
tunes. Life really does need a soundtrack. (I coined the phrase before the advertisers for apple did.)
Freshly peeled grapefruit. A new found favorite snack.
Children's books. Love em. Can't ever have too many.

Finding the perfect sticks for my snowmen. They finally have arms!

Oh, and last but not least, the beautiful BALL GOWN I found at the mall. I seriously loved it. (Isn't Kate so good with a camera phone!) It made me think of Cordelia on "The Happiest Millionaire" and I want it!

I'm done. I really do feel tons better. I have plenty more, but for now, this'll do. :) Happy Monday to all.

Ode to the bird

2010-01-19T10:06:00.002-07:00

Here's a little tribute to the bird that Kate discovered, dead (of course) Sunday morning:

Oh little bird

Joe took your life

He's a fat fat kitty-cat cat cat

Now there are feathers all over the place

Oh little bird

Rest in peace.

The replacement dress

2010-01-13T18:37:00.002-07:00

Here is it Christmas day....

Thankfully at Target, when young, inexperienced mothers let their daughters wear a "dress-up" Snow White costume an entire Christmas day, they allow you to return the dress and get a "replacement" (I'm sure they have hopes that you won't make the same mistake twice. They have never met me. Or my persistant daughter.)

They didn't have any more Snow White dresses, but isn't this much better anyway? She wanted to wear it to church. I almost caved....

Happy New Year

2010-01-13T11:30:00.001-07:00

Well, I am way behind on my blogging. But in an attempt to skip past December and just put things up for the new year, here we go. LOVE my kids. (That's news, right?)

Christmas Decor

2009-12-05T11:03:00.004-07:00

I love decorating for Christmas. And since I am a sucker for Nativities, I have plenty of decorations to put up.

I love this Willow Tree one and I’d like to own the whole “set” one day. But while we’re poor, I’ll stick to stitching myself different nativity scenes.

My first Nativity.

My e-bay nativity. Not sure what all the people are- there are 2 girls and an angel. Still wondering about that….

Goober the one-eared winter bear. Why do I love him so?

This is what’s on my front door today…

...Tonight, if everything goes as planned, the door will have this happy fella welcoming guests!

The tree Kate's sweet little hands made last year.

And, the flowers from my honeymoon. I finally figured out what to do with them. (It was inspired by my sis-in-law’s “4 seasons” leaf collection she gave Codye. 4 leaves from the same tree throughout the year. Love it.) (Not Christmassy, but, still. I'm proud of it!)

MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ALL!

Almost Famous!

2009-11-17T11:04:00.003-07:00

We got the spotlight last month in our ward newsletter. I just wanted to post it because I think my family is so cute! (And it's actually generated some business for my cute hubby!)

Halloween!

2009-11-11T10:28:00.005-07:00

Here are a few pictures from our Halloween....

Fireman John.

We tried to go get a few shots at our local pumpkin patch with Grandma Kitty-Cat. Kate was in Heaven! (Christy got some GREAT! shots!)

Johnny didn't really enjoy it. He was even too tired to go trick or treating.

Oh, well. There's always next year....

Kate was “Fancy Nancy” or a Kate version of such. (Turns out she really does enjoy dressing up like this- I guess I finally got her the right clothes!!)

Halloween Party at Gramma Goose & Papa Bill's.

We had a great time- making our own pumpkin cakes and eating donuts off strings!! We love fun traditions. Mom & Bill- Good work.

I guess it is nice being close to "home."

Happy Halloween! practice run

2009-10-28T17:41:00.004-06:00

I guess Johnny feels left out about his last year's halloween costume…. Guess he's just insuring that THIS year he'll get the whole shebang- just like Kate. Complete with MAKE-UP and everything!

(Does he know he's going to be a fireman? Guess it doesn't matter...)

The Dog

2009-10-21T09:54:00.004-06:00

Welcome to the family, Bruce.

(it's hard not to love him- he's got the sweetest personality!)

Rockin' a new do

2009-10-15T00:50:00.002-06:00

(the pictures used on this post are not authorized for personal use nor fiscal gain without written consent from the photographer, Christy Cunningham. Thank you.)

This morning, I woke up with long, pretty yet scraggle-y (not to mention, difficult) hair.

After a trip to the beauty parlor (and some fun gossip), I came out looking something like this. (Not bad for a self-portrait!)

2009-10-01T16:37:00.005-06:00

SILVER LAKE SEPTEMBER 2009

I love my husband for making spending time in the great outdoors a regular activity. And, since he knows EVERY fun spot in Utah, there is never a shortage of places to go.

This weekend we went up to Silver Lake. And, fortunately for Abbye and all the tree-huggers concerned about our dog in a no-dog zone, she is a service animal.

(Kate LOVED being in charge of the leash. Unfortunately for her, Abbye has no clue how to behave on a leash.)

The kids had such a blast. Such a blast. They were chasing each other around the boardwalk- poor little Johnny tried so hard to keep up with Kate.

But he got his chance to pull himself up on the rocks- (like the 2 moon shot? I thought it was quite clever…)

I think he Is SO handsome!

Some things

2009-09-29T16:54:00.003-06:00

Uncle Larry was the first man in Kate's life to buy her flowers. He asked her what she wanted at the store- she could have ANYTHING she wanted. And guess what she wanted. PINK FLOWERS. Carnations. (I love carnations. I have good childhood memories that involve carnations.)

Trying on Daddy's hat is just so fun.

Here we are at the park by Gramma Goose's and Papa Bill's. Jonah, Eli, Kate, Johnny and I all walked up the hill to the park and of course, just as things were getting fun to photograph, my camera died.

Jonah was so cute- he wanted to help Johnny get down the slide. (And since he needed a little encouragement, a "big brother" was perfect.)

Once Jonah got to the top, Johnny was (I think!) all on board and I wish I'd charged my battery- they were so cute coming down! And, of course, once Johnny got started on the slide, he didn't want to quit.

Papa Bill and Codye came and rescued us as we were starting our trek back home. We got to ride in the back of the truck! It was AWESOME!

2009-09-23T15:42:00.003-06:00

Finally a true- sube owner. Completed the look with a bumper sticker. (Every subaru owner has a cause!)

Just a few pix of the new place. The bunk beds that Kate fell off...

and our no-front yard. Too bad the rest of the house was too messy to get pictures of!

It's happened

2009-09-08T13:38:00.004-06:00

Mother of 2, 1 age 3 1/2, one 18 months. It took longer than I anticipated, but it's officially happened.

these guys are just a year old. We've had them, oh, 10 months. So glad that those excess doll clothes have been put to good use! (Well, at least Kate's not dressing Johnny up like a girl and making "her" wave at the train as her "little sister" the way my grandpa's older sister used to do!)

Life's too busy

2009-09-02T19:08:00.002-06:00

I know, I know. Pictures of the new place... Yes, we've finally got our whole family under the same roof! Pictures may be coming soon. But, meanwhile, before the move, we did do a few exciting things (motel 6 anyone? how about a nice hot sauna with about a dozen hispanic kids?)

Sleepover Buddies. (We got the bunk beds up HOORAY and Kate said to me this morning, "Now SPENCE and MAX can come sleep over! But Spencer doesn't come that much..." It was sweet and sincere.)

It may be against the rules of etiquette, but here the kids are at Ida's grave. Kate drew her a picture. We left it under the flowers, I think. I still get emotional when I see these pictures. I know she's been "gone" for a long time (technically speaking), but every now and again I have a memory that causes the tears to just flow. I can't imagine what my sweet Ole is going through. 68 (?) years is quite a while to get attached to someone.

Kate had a great time with Max and London. In fact, she is quite insistant on getting a new sister. She's willing to trade Johnny for her.

We'll get some pictures up of the place soon. I hung pictures last night (I think I may be driving my neighbors crazy. Not to mention my husband!)

Please say a prayer

2009-08-15T19:15:00.005-06:00

While I'm without internet at home (Yes! We finally have a place to live- together- all under the same roof! We're in South Jordan....) I have to put a shout out to my dad, Bill, and ask anyone who knows him (or me for that matter) to do the same. I don't think I can do any better of expressing my feelings than to say go to this post. He is the man. While I'll never forgive him for the speech he gave at my wedding dinner (let's just say, he started it with "Now Jenn has dated a LOT of guys. A LOT of guys..."), he will always be my dad. Even if it took being without a dad for 7 years, maybe even longer than that, he is and always has been my dad. He taught me how to drive a stick shift, he gave my husband permission to ask for my hand, he showed me how important loving one's spouse is and how to just lighten up. He taught me how to make a proper grilled cheese sandwich and he's always acted like he loves when I cook for him. He takes care of me- he gives me a shoulder to cry on and a hand to hold. Bill, I just love you. I just love you. And I want your kidney-less body to get better! Right now!!!

Good-bye, Logan

2009-07-20T00:02:00.005-06:00

Driving through Sardine Canyon causes a pit to form in my stomach.
Tomorrow will be the last time that that drive gets me "home."

I love you, Cache Valley. And all that you have given me.
I will miss being hours away from the real world.
Your fast-food restaurants with college kids who never cared to get our orders right.
I will miss your peaceful mountains. Your clean air.
Your flat streets that provided many fun outings with my kids.
Your zoo with birds. And, uh, birds.
I will miss your beautiful Temple. I will miss how it's illumimating presence makes it look to be the most exciting attraction in your town.
I will miss sleeping with the windows cracked in your cold winter and the a/c blasting away in your not-so-unbearable summer.
I will miss the incredible people in your amazing town. The incredible people who touched my life in such a short time. And whom I will forever hold dear.

Good-bye, Logan.
I hope we meet again someday soon.

Dear Liz,

2009-07-04T05:13:00.012-06:00

There are so many words of wisdom that I could pass along to you. Being married for 5 years (and in 2 states!) most definitely makes me an expert. However, I will save that for another place and time- most likely every chance I get to talk to you for the rest of our lives.
This post, however, is to thank you for allowing me to be part of your Fairy Tale Wedding. I have had so many bad feelings over MY wedding for the past 5 years, I thought I'd never be able to fully enjoy another wedding again. (Somewhat exaggerating, but not as much as you may think...) Your wedding proved to be JUST what the doctor ordered (or should have!)

Here's what I think you did right:

Starting out with a pedicure at Spa Club is a sure fire way to get things off on the right foot. (Even if that means your cute little toes are stepped on by your grand kids... Please tell mom, again, "Sorry about that!")

Having the right hair do is crucial- as we all know. You were well prepped in that department- and you looked great. And so did mom! ;)

Also, allowing enough time, not only to be on time, but being prepared for any MAJOR disaster was awesome. Good planning.

Having the right crowd at the Temple. You and Josh coming out of the temple- you looked absolutely beautiful. Your face was radiant. And everyone there was so overly excited to see you two finally hitched. It was great.

Gorgeous hair. Beautiful face. Radiant spirit- what a fun bride you were to be around. Way to be confident.

Having 3 gorgeous sisters hasn't hurt you any.

Finding THE shade of lipstick that was made for you (and not your dress!). How funny that it was the one I brought with me and just put on you. It had to have been inspiration. It made your already beautiful lips look INCREDIBLE!

Oh, let's not forget to mention those EYELASHES!!! A definite must.

Crowd at the Luncheon- You coming into the luncheon, again, what a great face. You guys were adorable. Mellow and nice party, with a sweet romantic twist...

Josh adores you. All in all, this is more important than hairdos, painted toe nails and wedding shoes. Him singing was the icing on the cake.

Adorable bridesmaids. That thought YOU were adorable. They were a great touch.
As were the Calla Lillies.

Taking a minute to be silly and playful- which is something that will prove to be very beneficial throughout your marriage. (Being a "yellow" is often underrated. Don't let the mocking of it confuse you.)

The nieces as flower girls in cute buttercream dresses

and nephews in matching ties... Even the chubby Johnny who almost had to sleep with his on that night...

This beautiful table was just fun. The mints were a good idea. I'll leave it at that.

Granite Bakery. Your cake was BEAUTIFUL!

Crowd for bouquet toss. Again, good choice.
And, again, great choice of flowers.

The dancing was so fun. It was like non-Mormon weddings, just, without the drinking. Good call.

Bubbles. And great crowd bidding farewell.

Limo. Superb choice.

Your wedding really helped me, I haven't quite figured out how or why, but it was just really great to part of something that flowed so smoothly and seemingly effortless. I know mom did a lot of the "big" stuff, most of which allowed for things to go the way they did- but you really were a great bride- confident, relaxed and just gorgeous. As cheesy as the Disney music that played ALL NIGHT LONG was, it really was a Fairy Tale Wedding.

And I will be forever grateful I got to be part of it.

Love,
Jenn

Side note: Wasn't my dress awesome? I'm super excited I found it just in time for the event. Hooray for me!

Man, he's got a good lookin' head

2009-05-21T00:44:00.002-06:00

So he's wearing girl's underpants...

I think the haircut was a success.

(now if we can just get a cute pic of Kate's new 'do.)

The Morning

2009-05-17T05:54:00.005-06:00

3:30 am. A screaming Kate comes running from my room, obviously upset she couldn't find me (for I am not in my bed. I am on the couch in the upstairs family room, still awake for who knows why. Completely different post altogether.)

3:35 am: Comforting Kate on couch. With bubblegum blanket. And Wubby.

3:36 am: In Kate's bed. With bubblegum blanket and wubby. And Joe (the cat).

3:40 am: Mommy dozing, Kate getting all excited about Joe in the bed. Unable to sleep.

3:41 am: Mommy kicking Joe off bed. For the 3rd, maybe 5th (possibly even 10th) time. "C'mon Kate. Let's go to sleep."

5:27 am: Mommy awakens to Joe who is unable to open the door to get out. Little did I know that the excitement was now taking place outside Kate's room.

5:28 am: Mommy finds Kate downstairs. The upstairs has obviously lost it's fun. There is much more to do downstairs.

5:29 am: Kate is back in room. Screaming. Mommy is running through the house, following the trail of turned on lights Kate left in her haste.

What happened between 3:30 am and 5:30 am? Let me begin to list:

Upstairs bathroom light on, conditioner on counter or proactiv (mommy's magic face stuff) is what was used to make Kate's hair look, um, "styled"

Markers out, a few pictures (from coloring book, thank heavens) colored

Computer chair pulled over to washing machine

All the clean laundry from laundry basket have been placed back into the washer (guess mommy's not the only one doing laundry in the middle of the night)

Oh, mommy's blow dryer is plugged into the outlet outside Kate's door

The straightener is also plugged in- only, it's in the bathroom (again, thank heavens I always turn the switch to OFF before I unplug it)

Maggie the cat is missing.

Downstairs: Chair is pulled up to coat rack.

Coat rack is where the thermostat is. It has now been set from "OFF" to "COOL"

Church box full of file folders and other church entertainment for kids has been ransacked.

Door to garage, open. (haven't yet checked garage. But the actual garage door was still down. Another thank heavens)

Maggie found (I know- "what a relief" everyone is thinking...)

Kitty litter box lid, lifted. Cleaned by me last night and brand new litter (another thank heavens)

Not sure what else has happened. I don't know that I want to know.

Don't call. Don't text. Just fast. Fast and pray that for the next 3 hours, I get some sleep and a chance to realize how lucky I am that Johnny's room* was untouched. Maybe she watered the plants in my room- but for now it seems that the only things missing from my neatly organized get-pretty-organizer were my dryer and straightener. (Yes, they were put away and in MY bathroom. Again, Put AWAY.)

Fast and Pray that we make it through today. (Focusing mainly on Kate- that she makes it through the day. With a sleep-deprived, at the end of her rope, dangling by a thread mommy.) Pray for that girl.

For my Ole

2009-05-14T15:50:00.004-06:00

To my grandpa Ole. Thanks for being so handsome and passing down those genes.

Uncle Craig and Scott- it's been said he resembles you two....

(and I'm sure at one point, Ole was this happy over the simple things!! Mom, that little note is for you.)

I love small towns.

2009-04-27T10:50:00.003-06:00

Here's why:

City of Moron(i), Utah.

This one was in Brigham City...

And, of course- I love any town with friendly farm animals. (Farmington)

We're in Business!

2009-04-23T21:16:00.003-06:00

Yeah to my cute amazing hubby for getting his business up and running. His truck looks really nice- hooray! I love you baby! I am so proud of you!!!

Baby Animal Days!

2009-04-12T09:29:00.010-06:00

My new all-time favorite place/event: The Heritage Park Baby Animal Days.

Only in a small town can such awesome things happen.

"Sure, kids! Play on the old farm equiment!"

Lots and lots of animals walking (and pooping) around,

Baby Turtles! That you can actually hold!

this one started to climb up Kate's sleeve. She didn't like that much.

In the same room they had snakes- and she really got into those.

(I couldn't let her see me by the snakes- so I sorta kept away!)

Riding around in a wagon pulled by a 4-wheeler thingy...

Seatbelts? What for?!

The baby cow is actually sucking on Kate's fingers.

(Love her mouth! It's so funny!)

They had a small area where the kids could actually get in and mingle with the "kids" (baby goats).

Johnny was all over this!

He had like, 10 or so to go after. He really enjoyed it.

And, much to my surprise, he didn't viciously attack any of them!

Yeah, Johnny!

(Glad to know the word "gentle" in reference to animals is sinking in!!)

Kate was in her element.
I think she would have started to share the water with the kids,
had we left her there long enough.... (nice "W" Kate!)

Cotton Candy, Homemade Rootbeer, Smoked Corn on the cob... For, like $1 each- I think the most expensive thing was $2.
And they were giving out free bottled water.
Who does that? Wow. I tell you what- wow.

Feeding the ducks mom's old, stale bread.

Pony rides. Kate was a pro.

Daddy didn't even have to walk next to her- she was a rock star!

Trying to give a big friendly sheep a kiss.

(I don't think she thought he'd go for it. He was all over the idea!)

They got to get inside practically all of the animal holding areas and touch the baby animals.

They had calves, lambs, kids, ducklings, chicks, bunnies... it was so fun.

"Here, piggy, piggy!"

Poor rabbit- if only he knew that the man who was holding him would like to bring him home for supper...

I love being a mom

2009-03-29T22:31:00.004-06:00

Here comes the... Flowergirl!

Hope you love it Liz. Kate is SOOO excited about this. I almost think we're going to have to make a chain to count down the days til she can wear the dress. (Where is Christy when I need her- I can't get a decent picture of this girl if my life depended on it!)

And here's my handsome little Zundel man. How I just love you, Johnny. Not so much all your new skills, however: Getting on and off the chair (this one is ok)... up and down the stairs... Opening the front door and all other CLOSED doors (mostly only a problem for the ones without locks) ! Where did my little 8# lb. baby go!

I love my kids.

Kate's Birthday

2009-03-02T10:38:00.006-07:00

I know I'm 30 days late and who knows how much behind, but here it is. What you've all been waiting for... the big day. Kate is 3 and she finally appreciated (understood might be a better word) the birthday celebration.

In order to get a date night in, Codye and I decided to head to Farmington the night before the partay and have the grandfolks watch the kids so we could have some much needed "couple time." (We saw "Australia" at the dollar theater. And I am now in love with Hugh Jackman. What a fun show!) Then we slept over to avoid a second drive down the canyon.

Opening presents first thing in the morning. Kate was super excited- she got jammies to match her brothers! (Her favorite thing ever!) And many many many other things.

Papasan Randy had a great supper for us at his house. We had a great party! Katie and the boys came! And Papa Bill and Gramma. Billy and Cohl were there too. It was a fun treat for Kate to see all those guys. She loves "the boys" (I love how Cohl may as well be one of Katie's boys to Kate. They're all the same age- he must be.)

Papasan Randy. Hero of the day. Yummy yummy supper. His roasts are amazing.

The Tinkerbell cake. Or, more accurately, the "Bubblegum" Tinkerbell Cake. (Kate's new word for awesome is "bubblegum." I don't know where that came from.) The gumballs were a HUGE hit.

Yup- she's three. All 38 3/4" and 31.4 lbs. of her. Still tall and skinny. (57% weight, 87% for height.) Thank you Grandma Christy for those awesome genes. (The gift that never stops giving!)

Among all of this little amazing girl's talents, I must say- she is quite an outdoorsy girl. She loves to go for hikes with her daddy and spend the afternoon on the swings. Just a few days ago, she "biked" all the way to Wal-Mart, stopping at each road crossing to get off her trike and hold my hand to cross safely. And she loves when we approach the store- "W" is for wubby. "M" is for MOMMY! Wal-Mart shmal-mart.

Katie May, our little princess- We love you so so much. You bring so much sunshine and joy to our lives. Happy Birthday!

Happy 1 Year Johnny!

2009-02-10T19:25:00.005-07:00

What a fun party we had for Johnny's first birthday! Grandma Christy and Greg came up and we had a special dinner- beer battered halibut. YUMMY!! (Mommy's favorite.) Codye did a perfect job on it!

And, after learning from the eldest child's 1st birthday, I decided to go with a much simpler cake: Lemon Cream Cake (ala Olive Garden)

It seemed to be a success.

It didn't look so good, but it tasted yummy!

Codye did so much to help- after the cake disaster, he gave Johnny a sink-bath for everyone to enjoy. (Look at johnny's man boobs! 30 lbs. of pure love, that's what he is!)

Johnny is a mama's boy. And I love it.

Kate could not have been a cuter sister. She loved helping Johnny with his gifts and was just good-spirited throughout the entire celebration.

What a blessing to have 2 happy, healthy (!!!) kids. I feel like the luckiest mom in the world. Thanks to everyone for phone calls and visits. Next up, Kate turns 3!

What a year...

2009-01-15T20:26:00.005-07:00

Life in Logan is wonderful. Here are a few reasons we've been too busy to blog:

Ice cream sandwiches. It may be 20 degrees outside, but who am I to stop Kate? There are sandwiches to be eaten and cookies (always) ready to be made!

Birthdays! Yup- just turned the big 2-9. I had such a blast- the cake reads "Happy Birthday Jenn-girl!" THANKS, Bill! (it's clever, but not as clever as the one Codye had for me 2 years ago....)

("Hopefully our love will always burn like this log."

It's an ice cream roll from Baskin Robbins. Mmm.)

Church at 11:30 (whooo!) and leftover cake to enjoy!! Johnny loved it! Kate is so funny. She will eat 1 bite and she's done.

Sink tubbies!! (3 bathrooms in the house and the poor kid is getting scrubbed in the kitchen...)

People look at me like I'm crazy walking around in the cold with the kids in the stroller (it's especially bad when I take Kate out of the stroller to let loose all that energy and she's still in her jamms. At 5 o'clock. In the night.) but we love it up here. Our house is adorable. The people are awesome. And everything is within walking distance (except the tanning place.) It's hard with Codye in school all morning and working all evening, but we are so proud of him. He is such a rockstar. And we love him to pieces for all he does. (No, he does not panhandle... Let's just clear that little post up!)

Time for another blog from the Code-ster

2009-01-04T20:51:00.008-07:00

Well it’s a new year and we have much to be thankful for in the Cunningham family. Our move to Logan has brought our family new adventures, challenges, and accomplishments.

After weeks of looking for full time work, while working part time for the city I decided to risk it all and enter the ranks of the self employed. Little did I know of the many hats a business owner has to wear. I alone account for all the positions in my little company. I’m chief financial officer (CFO), chief operating officer (COO), chief technical officer (CTO), chief marketing officer (CMO), chief information officer (CIO), and a director, or Vice-President of human resources. I know it looks like I just copied and pasted these terms off Wikipedia, but I didn’t. As CTO I’ve just learned to make certain phrases and words appear all blue and underlined so the layman can look this technical jargon up, so as not to waste any off my already limited time with silly questions. As you can see I’m already preparing myself for expansion and possibly fortune 500 status. I do recognize my own limits however, and have tried to recruit Jenn as my Vice-President of human resources, to allow me to focus my time on current production, as well as to utilize her limitless talents, but unfortunately Jenn is morally conflicted in the overall means by which my company meets its ends and isn’t overly supportive in her actions.

The Name of my company is Spare Change Recycling and Environmental INC. (SCR&E INC.) As the name would indicate we are an earth friendly, environmentally consciences company involved in recycling of spare change from others that would otherwise, inevitably end up lost in the cushions of ones couch, in an old funky looking wine bottle on someone’s dresser, maybe one of those annoying cut up foam coffee cups that sits next to the cash register at the seven eleven, or even worse, kicked around on the clean streets of Logan City.

Herein lays the bulk of discord that Jenn feels toward what we do at SCR&E INC. I believe we offer an essential service to the public, Jenn says I’m pan handler. I insist that a company that requires its employees to wear a uniform could not be involved in pan handling; she says my uniforms are really disguises.

I have included some photos of me at work, as a picture tells a thousand words, none of which are a lie, I’m sure.

Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

Obviously I put much thought into our uniform; to call them disguises is just mean.

Although things are going well, there have been some hiccups as is expected when launching an idea as titanic as this. Last week I was working at the south end of town (unfortunately there is some travel in my work) when I inadvertently encountered the bishop of our ward. He looked at me sideways for a moment before he recognized me (I was wearing Thursday’s uniform) and then asked if everything was alright. I replied that it was and not to worry, we were paying our tithing and I’d have my tax situation straightened out as soon as I could figure out how to fill out my 1040 tax form. Nevertheless he wants to see me this Sunday. He probably wants to invest.

Well that’s all for now. As usual I’m thankful for Jenn and the kids’ undying love and support (mostly) and look forward to blogging next time I have something of this caliber to contribute.

Merry Christmas to all

2008-12-27T00:35:00.023-07:00

It's been an especially wonderful holiday for me this year. Being up in Logan, we didn't make it down to "the valley" to see any of our traditional holiday places, so we've been coming up with a few traditions of our own.

Kate is such an amazing cook. Here she is making waffles and sausage for DINNER! Look at her skill!

Dancing with daddy to awesome Christmas tunes.

reading stories to the kitties. (Thank you, Aunt Tracie, for the books!) Joe the cat just LOVES Kate. Can't you just tell!

Christmas Eve

A fun Christmas eve tradition... opening up "MATCHING" Christmas jammies! (or, in daddy's case, a cowbell t-shirt!)

CHRISTMAS DAY!

Santa came! And look at all the fun things he brought! I just love the look on her face in these two pictures. Especially how her eyes are about as big as mine are in the morning on the bike picture. Poor girl. Just like me!

After seeing what Santa brought, we quickly jumped in the car

and headed to FARMINGTON to see Gwamma & Papa and Yiz. Opening MORE presents at Gwamma's and Papa's! Oh my goodness! Santa must have stopped here, too! Look at all these presents! And all for Kate!!!

Now, keep in mind that the pictures don't justice to what an amazing job my mom did making the bedding for this crib for Kate's baby, Sarah. I can't believe how much time, energy and attention she put into such a gift! Kate adores it. And Sarah adores it, too!

Next stop, great grumpa Ole and great grumma Ida.

Our visit to Ole and Ida's on Christmas day was a highlight for me. Here Johnny is just lounging on Ole. Ole thinks that Johnny looks just like his brother, Neal. (Zundel's are all so handsome, it's a compliment even if you don't know what Neal looks like....) I love the look on Johnny's face. He is so content on his great grumpa Ole. He sat there for a few minutes, which, for my busy boy, is quite a miracle.

This picture is really means the world to me.

We went to see Papasan Randy, Billy & Cohl.

Unfortunately, mommy didn't get any pictures

that turned out to show off our visit.

Next stop- GRANDMA KITTY-CAT!

Grandma Kitty-Cat's house was a fun stop, too. She gave Kate this adorable jumper. We didn't get to see Brutus (the cat), but we still had a nice time! Kate loves her Grandma Kitty-Cat.

But even more important, Kate LOVES the gift from her Grandma Kitty-Cat. She gave Kate the gift that all the movie stars have. A carrier for her pooch. (Pooch included.) Kathryn now has a new PURSE! She can fit the doggy, wubby, Sarah AND all the bedding from Gwamma in that thing! She loves it. (Thank you, Grandma Kitty-Cat! You always know what to get this girl!)

Boxing Day. (Or, the Day after Christmas)

Here is Kate in her room after a terrible night's sleep. After spending all Christmas day in the car traveling from one place to another, she had no time to enjoy her loot! I found her the day after at 5 am with EVERYTHING in her room just playing with it all. No, wait. I'm sorry. She found me. She came to wake me up. Like I was missing out on all the fun. (Which, really, is sweet. And she is supposed to wake me up when she gets up... Did I mention it was 5 am??)

Again, the picture doesn't do it justice, but there Sarah is in her new bed. All dressed up in her new getup and on top-notch bedding. Mom, you really recreated a very special memory for me with this gift. I'm so glad that Kate loves it. I love it.

THE CUNNINGHAM'S

Here is our little family on Christmas day. Some of us not as little as we'd like to be, but, nevertheless. Us.

Happy Holidays!

Why, Hello!

2008-12-05T00:16:00.000-07:00

Remember us? Yes, we have been having much too much fun to spend our days blogging... yeah, right. I'm playing catch up and trying to check out/comment on everyone else's blog. Sorry. We'll be updating again sometime soon. For now, enjoy the silly children in the tub.

Warning: LONG POST

2008-11-14T13:04:00.013-07:00

It has been almost been 2 weeks since we moved. We are loving life in Logan. (I don't especially care for the rain, but anything that gives Kate an excuse to sit and watch "Robin Hood" is okay with her.) Here are a few pix of the place. Besides the Homeowners Association that we've had to deal with, everything is WONDERFUL!! Having a kitchen is a blessing that no one should take for granted.

Here's the living room. This is what you see when you first walk in the front door. And yes, those are STAIRS behind Kate. Stairs that lead to the BEDROOMS! All 3 upstairs. Well, this is on the left and on the right is....

the dining area/KITCHEN! I know. It's a miracle. And look! I even have a bar! (Yup- one more place to lay out my "projects.") The kitchen's not terribly large, but it's just so nice to be able to cook in my own space!

This is in between the couch and the kitchen area. Codye built it for me. And I finished it. Painted it, sanded it, antiqued it. I love it. Ok, I overdid the sanding a bit, but as far as my first piece goes, I think I did an okay job!

Once I got the shelves decorated, it made the place look a lot more homely. (No, that glowing set of eyes is not a stuffed cat. Welcome surprise #2 & #3 from my adorable husband.) Meet Joe.

and his sister, Maggie.

Johnny's room. Kate's room. (This is the before picture.) We haven't got both the bunkbeds put together yet. But we will! Silly Kate- she refuses to sleep on double mattresses. Good thing I got this picture when I did. If you look out Kate's window, you can see the kind of "row-homes" we live in. We're in the dead center. Neighbors on both sides. But, they're cute.

And our room. I mostly just want to show off my awesome plant (Trace- that's the "love fern" you gave me as my very first "couple" plant. The one you gave me at my shower!)

And, look! We have a window! :) And a bathroom. Our own. (Now if I could just figure out how to bathe WITHOUT children!)

Life is good. Logan is too far from our families, but I think it's good to be out of our comfort zone.

On the Move

2008-10-29T20:11:00.003-06:00

I apologize to all for being so behind on the blog. We are moving up to Logan (!) this weekend and it's all been such a whirlwind. Once the dust is settled, you'll be hearing from us again.

help!

2008-10-21T22:27:00.003-06:00

What does this need? It needs something in the bottom left. Mom thinks a biggie-size of the boxed heart that's in the lower right... I just can't envision it. Any suggestions? (The original idea was to put her birth weight/height in a box in that corner. I just decided that that was dumb.)
A scripture? If so, which one? Or just finish the verse, "Lead me, Guide me, Walk beside me." ? I dunno.

Happy 8 Months, John

2008-10-09T07:21:00.012-06:00

Happy 8 months, Johnny! We are so proud of you! Here you are eating your first Marie Callender's pie (chocolate silk). Okay, you're actually not eating it here- you're done and the dogs are cleaning up...

With 2 teeth almost fully in, I couldn't resist this "chew toy" for you. You are gnawing on the steak I grilled up for supper. On my way down the stairs from the grill, I had you in one arm, the plate of fresh-off-the-grill-meat in the other arm (as far from you as I could get it!), and you somehow managed to get a piece off the plate. (Once I made it inside, I let you have another one, just to occupy that other hand!) You were so happy- I watched you go to town. (Abbye was close by in case you dropped a piece. Which, you did.)

You are so handsome! At 8 months, you are pulling yourself up onto things and falling a lot. You are a cruiser. Papa has been teaching you to move your feet as he stands you up and holds you by your arms. You are learning how to take steps. That's been kinda fun. Okay, it actually terrifies me. As quick as you are down on all fours, I don't know if I'll be able to keep up with you once you're actually walking! (I'm okay if you stick with crawling for awhile. Please.)

Kate and you enjoying a nice slice of lemon. I can't say for certain but you both seem to be enjoying yourselves! We love watching you feed yourself. It's simply amazing seeing how the hand-eye coordination develops.

You are an amazing young man, Johnny. You're strong, healthy, handsome and you have the sweetest disposition (btw, props to Babywise...). You LOVE your sister. She makes you laugh every chance she gets! And your deep, throaty laugh makes me happy to be a mother. I love you, John William Atticus Cunningham.

He's on the loose!

2008-10-02T00:49:00.012-06:00

Look out world, here he comes!

Johnny makes his first trip out into the real world which, as my mother so lovingly pointed out is probably a whole lot safer than the unfinished basement we currently call home.

So, I have to do an update of Kate-isms that I'll forget unless I write down.

I asked Kate today if she was "Kate the great." She replied, "No, Daddy is my princess." I asked, "You're daddy's princess?" to which she said, "Yes. I'm Daddy's princess."
Smooshing Johnny's cheeks together and calling him "CHUBBY!"
Kate helping Wamma water her flower pots and Wamma squirting Kate with a full stream of water. Wamma asking, "Kate, who's girl are you?" "(whimper) Wamma's girl." "Kate, want to help me water my pots?" "(whimper) No." (refusing anything with wamma is unheard of!)
Walking home from church and having grasshopper hop right up onto Kate's dress. Her feet froze and she just started shrieking. It was too funny. Terribly upsetting, but still, I had to stifle my laughter.
How she now hesitates before walking back to our "door" because the white plastic fence always has at least 3 "hoppers" on it. Freaks her out. No kidding. (When did she get so girly?)
Seeing 2 preying mantises "fighting" in the gutter that she was walking on. Again, stopped dead in her tracks and started to scream. We had to walk on the other side of the street to avoid them.
Every animal loves her. Tom Tom the cat (that we feed yummy kitty-treats to), the two kitties in the 'hood that we just stumbled upon earlier this week. Girl has got it going on. Everyone loves her. ("They love me." Sometimes when she says it, she does act a bit surprised. "They love ME?!")
How even SHE knows who is calling by my phone's ringtones. ("I'nna call mommy. Please mommy.")

Can I also list my gratitude journal while I'm at it? (sitting down with my book and pen in hand seems to be IMPOSSIBLE lately...)

Codye- for planning (2 months ago, I kid you not) a romantic evening. Okay, Dennis Miller Live at Kingsbury Hall isn't exactly what some would call romantic, but, it was to me. The evening was awesome. Then dinner at my fave: Market Street. Sigh. I married such a thoughtful man.

Dennis Miller. If you don't know who he is, you probably aren't glued to Fox News like my mom. If you really know who he is, you may enjoy this link I just found.

Liz- for allowing me to borrow her car and her baby-sitting services long enough for me to escape and get some major errands run. And regain a thought of my own. Without having to drown out screaming children by calling it "background music."

Mom- for many, many, many things. But for right now, babysitting my kids while Liz played on her laptop... :P
Driving home and seeing something spectacular- and then being able to pull over and admire it for a minute. (Okay, a cat wandering up to three horses might not be all that exciting to normal people, but for me, it was the coolest thing. This cat just walked up to these horses- like, "hey guys. 'sup. Just here to find a mouse. Carry on with your eating." They didn't even mind. Nature.)
Losing 7 lbs. Okay, even though I was UP way too many to count, losing is always awesome.
Putting on a sweater that shrunk in the dryer. ("Fat Guy in a Little Coat" anyone?) Really. It fit me when I was pregnant with Johnny. 9 months pregnant. I didn't gain THAT much weight after he was born!
Having a nice mother-in-law. Who adores my children. And always makes me feel like I'm a wonderful mother.
When Kate and Johnny are stuck in their carseats for a long roadie (to Salt Lake or wherever) and all of a sudden, they are both just GIGGLING! It makes all the pain and agony worth it. For a few moments at least.
Finishing projects.
My awesome printer.
My awesome camera. (Did I mention my awesome Mother-In-Law??)
Winning stuff of ebay.
Scoring awesome deals on ksl.com.
My "new" washer/dryer. They match! And supposedly work really well!!!
WE'RE IN OCTOBER! 'Nuf said.
Could I go on? Certainly. Will I? Not tonight. Over and out.

I love

2008-09-18T21:06:00.006-06:00

I came inside the other night to find that my 7 month old son (who now has 2 teeth and yes, is crawling & doing push ups...) has reached another very important milestone- his very first moustache! I know. It's amazing how these life-altering moments sneak upon us mothers.

Johnny, you are very handsome. Now I just pray that you have the same wonderful sense of humor that your father has... (it's much worse in color! But too funny to leave out.)

How is it that the moment you start bragging about how your kid "doesn't do this..." or is "so good about this..." they prove you wrong. It's like by vocalizing their accomplishments, you are setting yourself up. Just two or three days ago, I was telling Codye how great it was that Kate has never fallen off the tramp. The tramp (as you can see) has no bells or whistles. It's old school all the way. No mats. Fully above the ground. A mother's worst nightmare, right? Well, Kate LOVES the trampoline. She loves to sneak out there and bounce away. She's figured out how to get on and off without the little ladder (which in and of itself is a hazard). But yesterday, she managed to get herself stuck between the springs. (It was too funny. I couldn't but help grabbing the camera on my way to rescue her!)

"Don't take my picture, mommy! Don't take my picture!"

Kate's vocab. Saying Johnny's name: (instead of John William Atticus, she just says the one that matters: Atticus.) Sounds something like "Ackicus." She loves to say it.

Kate helping me feed Johnny. "NO BLUEBURRIES JOHNNY. That's naughty!" (I don't call them "raspberries." Putting the lips together and blowing out- looks more like they're trying to say "blue" than make a raspberry. I don't even get where that comes from. So in our house, they're blueberries...)

The Fair!

2008-09-11T23:07:00.007-06:00

We love our annual outing with Randy, Katie and the boys to the State Fair. It's one of my favorite traditions.

This year Kate really enjoyed herself. She went on so many rides, a wristband was an investment well worth making. (Thank you, Papasan!)

She loved the Ferris Wheel and Codye told me she kept saying "HIGHER! HIGHER!" She got to ride her first pony, too. (They have the ponies in a tent all blocked off so they can charge you $6 for a picture with your kid on the pony. So, I didn't get a good shot of it. Bloody carnies!) Monumental though. Her first "horsie ride." She looked adorable and really seemed to enjoy herself! It was as though she was born to be on horseback. Sigh.

Codye won her a cute little stuffed penguin. Best $15 we've ever spent, huh Code! She loves it, though. (And if you ask her, "he loves me so much, mommy.")

Next year it'll be fun for Kate to have Johnny to tag along side her. But this year, she sure did enjoy those boys!!

Yeah for the Utah State Fair!!

7 Months Later

2008-09-10T06:10:00.011-06:00

Well, Johnny boy! You've done it. You have won over our hearts with that giant smile and that happy countenance. Seven months old and still growing.

With one tooth up and another making serious headway, we anxiously await that first bite of steak that will put you back on track to sleeping through the night. Baby food just wasn't meant for someone with your pallet. You are just like your daddy- gourmet all the way.

Now, you've got some serious crawling hurdles to overcome. But just yesterday, you figured out that you need to get your bum in the air. You've almost got that part down. Now if you could just figure out those knees.

You are standing. Not on your own (obviously). But you get your feet flat on the floor and body locked in a "Look at me! I'm STANDING!" position. 2 months ago, you couldn't buckle those knees nor figure out how to unsquish those toes. You've come a long way!

You are the sweetest, happiest child that so easily wins the hearts of anyone and everyone you share that big happy incredible smile with. You are a joy in our lives and our family is more complete with you here. (Even Kate adores you. But what's even more amazing is how much YOU adore her!)

We love you Johnny boy. Or, as Kate puts it, "I love you, Buddha Boy."

From Labor Day Weekend. Finally.

2008-09-09T12:02:00.011-06:00

My favorite trip on Earth-

Yellowstone National Park.

What an awesome time we had at Yellowstone over Labor Day. The weather was nice (most of the time!) and the animals were out. We saw elk, bison, dogs, ducks... no bears, though.

We saw this whole family of elk drinking out of the stream and laying on the little island of grass. There were like, 10. Kate was looking at them, then all of a sudden, she goes, "HEY! DUCKS!" And got super giddy over the gaggle of canadian geese just a hop away from the Elk. Yup- the same kind as we have here in Utah.

First, we set up our awesome new tent...

Good thing that we put the rain cover on it after we froze to death on the first night! (It rained on night #2.)

Daddy, Johnny & Kate in the hammock.

Kate only fell out once. Considering how often she was in it, we're pretty lucky. And it kept sinking lower and lower to the ground, so, it wasn't a terrible fall.She loved that thing.

Kate enjoying a nice "swim" before dinner.

This stream was just a short walk away from our campsite. She started out fully clothed- and ended up, well, I made her keep her wet unders on...

Kate kept letting her shoe get carried away by the water. Abbye rescued it 3 times! It was so fun for Kate. (Kate and Abbs really bonded on this trip. Abbye slept right on Kate in her sleeping bag every night. It was the sweetest thing ever. Good ol' Abbye.)

Kate, Mommy, Daddy and (on daddy's back, all snuggled up warm,) JOHNNY!

This was one of the funniest parts of the trip. We spent 2 hours driving up to Mammoth Springs, got out for lunch on the nice grass area then piled back into the car for another hour or so up to Artist Point. It was incredible! Even Kate loved the waterfalls.

A few highlights:

Johnny was sick the entire trip. Full on throwing up, waking up 4 times a night, flushed face, awesome.
Kate & Johnny and their snot noses. Probably from not being bundled up warm enough at night. (Hey, I'm still learning.)
Starting the fire for breakfast. I was so proud of myself. (I was also so cold that the idea of waiting for Codye to roll outta bed nearly sent me packing.)
Homemade ice cream. That's right. Shake it up baby. (We never would have believed it worked!)
Tin foil dinners.
Kate needing to go potty and just making for the trees behind our tent. Mind no matter that the potties were 30 yards away.
Old Faithful. We waited 30 minutes for it to blow. And I had left the camera in the car. I was MAD! It was beautiful. And worth it. (Camera phone just didn't do it justice.)
Kate sleeping with Codye the last night. She must have been freezing. Waking up to see the love of your life with your offspring- what is it? It made my heart melt.
Grand Teton National Forest on the drive home.
Paul and Dorth and the boys. It was fun to camp next to friends!
How Paul wanted to fight a guy who didn't move out of his family picture. He just needed to take one big step to the left... ("I'm gonna knock his camera into the water. I'm gonna do it.")
The huge hole in the middle of the grassy area that was barely guarded by a small fence. 20 foot drop, at least. (I'm just glad the boys didn't fall in it after I told them they could hop the fence. They wanted to pee in it but some parents have morals.)
Swimming in the fire hole. At least, they tell me they swam...

Awesome trip. Such a blast. Thanks, Code. For making it happen. (We're all just thrilled that you survived.)

Go Aggies

2008-08-29T00:00:00.004-06:00

We had a fun adventure this past weekend as we headed up to Logan to visit the Utah State campus for the day. Kate got to see her daddy's school and enjoy the fountains. The highlight of the trip was that Kate got to enjoy her first Aggie Ice Cream (bubble gum flavored, of course)!

Saturday afternoon's can be quite busy at the creamery up North and let's just say Kate didn't disappoint. Her audience (aka the others in line, then the people outside eating their ice cream) was captivated by her enthusiasm for life. And how could they resist? Her face was a blue, sticky, dripping mess. Her entire front was a blue goo- all the way down to her shoes. (The camera was in the car and I was kicking myself the entire time for not dashing off to grab it. But she was so entertaining, she had me laughing out loud.) What would we ever do without our dear little Kate?!

We had to bid farewell when she fed Abbye some ice cream off her cone and I insisted the cone was finished. Alas, I do have some standards.

"Am I doing this right?"

2008-08-18T13:41:00.002-06:00

never too young to start, I suppose...

Happy 6 Months Johnny!

2008-08-17T15:43:00.011-06:00

Johnny is SUCH a big boy. Weighing in at 20lb. 7oz. (91st percentile) and 29" in length (off the charts according to the doctor, approx. in the 97th percentile), we're just glad his dome is in proper proportion with the rest of him. The doctor said he is the size of an average 10 month old. The fact that he can barely sit up without assistance, well, I'll just leave it at that.

We love you, Johnny. We anxiously await your official first crawl.

Milestones...

2008-08-02T12:44:00.006-06:00

How ever did I forget to mention these?

Johnny eating "solid" foods... he's a week shy of six months. Where does the time go!

Kate and her "piggies." Almost 2 1/2 years old before her hair was long enough to put in a ponytail. (Not counting the mullet...)

6 words+

2008-07-28T23:12:00.023-06:00

Liz, I have finally accepted your tag. Here. The 6 words that describe me best according to, well, me:

1. PLAYFUL

(The one and only reason I will never be the "glamorous auntie." Too much fun to be had to bother with things like, oh, I don't know, looking pretty.)

2. THOUGHTFUL

(Seriously. Need I say more?)

3. GENEROUS

(I know... I couldn't find a picture of me spending my free time at the Soup Kitchen or volunteering at the local animal shelter...)

4. ANIMAL-LOVER

(I'm the one PETTING the horse. Not sticking my finger up it's nose... LINDSAY!)

5. OUTDOORSY
(also could have used the words: "stinky", "unkempt", or just plain "dirty".)

6. PREPARED

RUNNER'S UP:

SUPER (Super MOM, Super WIFE... Basically any word here is appropriate)
CUTE
SPONTANEOUS
BEHIND ("Late", "Slow" -as in "always a minute behind." not bragging about my bum here)
MOODY (shocking this didn't make the list)
and...

Feed My Sheep

2008-07-11T11:32:00.003-06:00

The other day while driving down the street, we happened past the Ferrin/Prince Farm and the sheep were out (on the open side of the fence) grazing. Not wanting to miss such a golden opportunity, I quickly freed Kate from her carseat and told her to catch a sheep while I was freeing Johnny, kicking myself for not having brought the camera. (Thank goodness for camera phones!)
It wasn't until after Kate had corralled them back into their cage (in her sweet attempt to pet a sheep) that I realized Brother Ferrin had been out enjoying the beautiful animals on his back lawn. And we just chased them away. (I really hadn't told her to chase after these animals. I do know that a toddler and farm animals really aren't a great combination. Especially if said toddler thinks that all God's creatures adore her as she adores them.) But by unbuckling her seat, it was anyone's game.
Brother Ferrin has said to us before that we were free to open the gate and pet the sheep. A very generous offer- one that we would never take him up on simply because of the Eddye trying to catch a chicken experience. Even with Eddye gone, it just seemed too great a risk. Even for me. But here they were- Kate's for the having. How would I pass up on such an opportunity. I obviously did not.
I felt so bad that my attempt at fun took away from this old farmer's joy. I quickly apologized and, just as quickly, he assured me that all was well.
I slowly got Kate and Johnny back to the car, and before we got in, I thought I'd take the opportunity to have Kate sit on my lap and just admire the sheep from a distance. As we were walking away, I could hear Brother Ferrin calling his sheep, as if to say, "The danger is gone. You are now safe."
Before I sat down next to the car with my two kids on my lap, Brother Ferrin had his sheep back on his back lawn and they were grazing once again. Content and with their Shepherd.
It was one of the most beautiful experiences I've ever witnessed. I was overwhelmed with the feeling of the love of my Savior. We are His sheep. And He loves us all.

Finally my chance

2008-07-09T22:04:00.001-06:00

Wow, finally Jenn said if I could stay clean through the family vacation that I would have earned the privilege of contributing to the family blog.
Both my drug dependence therapist (Lester) and Jenn agreed I should use my burning desire to blog as impetus to beat “Dr. Feel Good.” I thank my wife for putting this huge responsibility in my hands.
I can’t believe it’s been almost a year since I burned down our trailer, was caught by news camera having my undershirt torn off while resisting police arrest and ultimately ended up in prison where the healing process began. Luckily my 35 year sentence was thrown out on appeal because the cop didn’t read me my rights and then beat me after I bit his testicle in the may lay. We really do live I the greatest country in the world.
Rehab was no piece of cake though. I thought everybody crushed and snorted their heartburn pills, and huffed personal deodorant to relax. Lester said there was no shame in needing 8 months to complete a 30 day program. Apparently abusive relationships cause addicts to need more time to heal (emotional scaring).
To Jenn’s credit she has only missed one anger management class. After the beat down she gave a gay couple in the parking lot outside the building she had to go home and change her clothes. Jenn’s therapist says if she can go another month without a violent confrontation, automobile related assault, or spitting on people displease her that they may start to allow us hour long chaperoned visits with our kids.
I was a little worried about the kids at first but I guess Kate loves her East Indian family and their curry eggplant. Johnny’s well too. His foster family has him going to a very exclusive religious/prep school. In fact few people even know where it is. But I hear some Muslim sects are very private and take their youth’s education very seriously. And really Arabic may be helpful in Johnny’s future.
Well, it's time for Jenn to administer my methadone, and we like to sweep off the concrete before we go to sleep (the trailer may be gone but we did prepay for our plot, community restrooms and the Ping-Pong room.)
I only hope that Jenn will give me another shot and I can blog some more. I love you baby.

kantnap, er, Kanab

2008-06-22T23:42:00.014-06:00

Don't we just look like we're well rested and having a blast? It's because we are!

The possibilities are endless. A road trip with 2 year old Kate, 4 month old Johnny (his first roadie) and my mother in a car that, well, let’s just say is compact. Light traveler? I definitely am not.

The trip from Salt Lake to Kanab was pleasant. Kate and Johnny enjoying each other's company in the backseat. Kate spilling her mini m&m's while exploring that wonderful package they came in. Johnny looking at his sister in quiet contemplation. Wamma at the wheel with an icy beverage keeping her alert. And myself, a happy passenger simply along for the ride. Able to enjoy the scenery knowing my kids were right behind me- safe, strapped in and sound.

We arrived in Kanab accident free (in every sense of the phrase… way to go, Kate!) and eager to see 4 month pregnant Lindsay with her rambunctious little Max. Kanab- not the most exciting town between Farmington and Phoenix. However, reunions these days are far and few between and any chance to get the kids together makes any town seem like Times Square on New Year’s Eve.

Once we were in our room (which came complete with one queen size bed and a closet that I do believe had a toilet) and the dust had settled, everyone was feeling right at home. The smell of the room soon became comical and we were able to jump right into our old joking selves. Acting as though we had just seen each other the day before and continuing the conversation we’d started earlier but for one reason or another were unable to finish. Just like old times. Laughter shared, new memories made, and at last, bedtime.

Lights out, everyone is asleep except me, Kate and Wamma. (Kind of ironic since we made the pregnant one sleep on the floor with her son, who, even more ironically slept through it all!) Come to think of it, I don't believe Bandit stopped pacing the entire night. (I would know. I was awake for every moment of it.) He must have suspected that he wouldn’t be departing with the family he had so happily arrived with. Too bad for everyone. (Me especially since I managed to find a wet spot on the floor early the next morning.With my socks on. Gross.)

Good old Bandit. Bandorrito. El Bandana. The little dog whose need to be dog-sat is what set the wheels of the Kanab road trip in motion in the first place. Thank you for the experience, Bandit. We do indeed salute you.

Judging the expression on Johnny's face, I believe he just didn't know what to think when that dog jumped onto his lap five minutes into the trip home. Could it possibly been "Do you really think this spot is for you?"

Kate did not enjoy her mommy and Wamma singing Cher at full volume on the ride home. She's so smart, she has already figured out how to completely drown out unwanted sounds- plug ears and make your own noise!

Happy 4 Months, Johnny!

2008-06-12T09:11:00.002-06:00

It's official- he's outgrown the infant sling and gets to be a big boy next to Kate in the chariot. Weighing in at 15 lbs., he's catching up to his big sister... I can't believe he's 4 months old! We had to give him some formula the other day since my milk can't keep up with him and now it seems like that's the only way he gets enough to eat. Oh, well. 4 months of nursing seems ok to me!

We love you, Johnny boy! You are the cutest little cuddle bug ever. (I love how cuddly he is. Kate was NOT a snuggler!)

100 things...

2008-06-11T19:54:00.007-06:00

Okay, so others have done it and I think it's awesome. So, Jenn in a nutshell. (P.S. I encourage anyone that reads it to sit down and do it yourself. It is super fun!) So, 100 things about me. Here goes:

I am 5'5" tall. The last 1/2" is a new development. One of which I am extremely proud of.
I like the color of my hair.
I love being a mom.
I love the movie "Dan in Real Life". It makes me homesick. And it makes me want 7 kids and do fun things together like they all do.
I want to have 7 kids. Maybe even 8.
Codye and I have been married in two states: Utah and Nevada. (The one is Utah was really the only one worth mentioning...)
I love my plants. Keeping a plant alive gives me a feeling of accomplishment.
I don't think anyone can ever have too many real plants around the house.
Actually, I do. Some people are retarded. And I'll leave it at that.
I love my herb garden. I love the smells. So does Kate.
I want my kids to grow up loving to get their hands dirty having fun and exploring the world.
I can't do my own hair. I am terrible at it.
I'm grateful that Kate has Codye's curls. They are adorable and she doesn't have to suffer because of my inability to do hair.
My favorite hair-do is a ponytail. I can do that one. Most of the time.
I love meat.
I feel guilty about loving meat because I love animals.
I have a secret crush on Bobby Flay (on the food network). He is amazing. I think he is so cute and talented. Plus, he has a fun personality.
Codye knows about my secret crush.
One of the things I love about Codye is his gourmet cooking abilities. He really has a gift.
But cleaning up after a gourmet meal is usually exhausting. For me.
I have a weakness for children's books.
I love to sing my kids to sleep.
It melts my heart when Kate sings along with me.
And it cracks me up when Codye sings to me. He makes up these songs with the CRAZIEST lyrics! ("I love you biscuits and graVY")
I love having a husband who I adore. He is intelligent and aware and always manages to impress me with his knowledge.
I will forever support him going to school. He is so much happier when he's learning new things.
I think that Codye and I were M.F.E.O.
I might not be the greatest wife or talk up my husband's strengths all the time, but I truly adore him. We always have fun together. Every outing is an adventure. And I think he's made it his life's ambition to make me laugh every day. And he does. I even make him laugh once in awhile. And watching him with our kids- sigh. They adore him.
I love Codye's mission friends. And their wives. Love them. It's another thing that made me fall so hard for him.
I love cooking for friends.
I have a strict policy on having people over for dinner- no one can do dishes if they are a guest at my house. You weren't invited over to help clean up. Dishes can wait. I really feel strongly about that.
Cleaning relaxes me.
I love to vacuum. Especially with my Dyson. It is one of the greatest investments I've ever made. Love it.
I do laundry way too often. The thought of clothes sitting in a pile dirty and germy and what have you grosses me out. I can't handle it. That's why I have to make sure the blinds are closed when I put a load in because usually whatever I have on goes in with the batch.
I am OCD. About many things. Not just laundry.
Thank You Notes is one of the many things. Obsessed.
I use tweezers to get boogers out of my kids' noses. They HATE it. I can't help it.
I am terrible at keeping journals for my kids.
But I do keep a gratitude journal. It is possibly one of the best things I do.
I think I'm a better wife/mom/person when I count my blessings.
And I get a certain satisfaction going back and reading some of the things I've written. (If it makes me laugh out loud, it goes in the book. C'mon. Having things to laugh about is SO underrated.)
I love the "Chicken Soup for the Soul" books. All of them.
A quote taped to the mirror in my bathroom is this: Silliness. It's a long-lost art, undervalued after the age of 12. The willingness to be totally nonsensical, give in to your curiosity. To feel instead of think, indulge instead of second-guess. Go ahead, no one's looking. Forget about guidelines, let loose. Sing off-key, prance around barefoot, stick your fingers in the cookie jar. Then keep the moment with you like a secret that will light up your smile, your spirit, your day.
I feel best about myself (and others) when I get up, get outside and do something.
Also when I'm doing service. I really believe that saying "The heart beats happiest when it beats for others."
One of my favorite things is going for a bike ride.
Codye and I have agreed that we will always have bikes for our kids.
And ice skates.
I don't wear a helmet.
I don't make my kids wear helmets.
I feel guilty taking my g's off to exercise.
I have been so lazy about getting outside. I blame the hills for not biking.
And I blame not having my own yard for not doing yardwork.
These are just excuses, I do realize.
I like to refinish furniture. Sand it down, paint it, make it look nice.
I hate cheap furniture.
I hate cheap anything. Clothes, gum, people...
And thoughtless people.
There is a man in my ward who, when I was walking in to Sacrament meeting on Sunday, I asked him for a program. He looked at me for a moment and said, "I think your husband just got one." Hello! We blessed our baby. You think maybe we could get 2 programs? Sheesh. (This is also the man who just looked at me when I spilled the entire contents of my diaper bag right in front of him and down the aisle on my way out of Sacrament with a child during the middle of someone's talk- just looked at me.)
I love knowing the people that work at the grocery store. Just recognizing faces and being recognized really makes me feel, uh, special.
My 2 favorite places to eat are Red Iguana and Market Street.
Codye and I test drove a Land Rover just for a free gift certificate for Market Street.
Now we want a Land Rover.
I used to hate heated seats because they made me feel like I wet my pants. But since experiencing them in my mom's sweet BMW, I really have grown to like them.
I love to blast music while driving. Really loud.
I like angry chick rock.
I like music I can sing out loud to.
And I love Miles Davis. He mellows me out.
I can't watch R-rated movies. They usually fill my head with filthy language and guaranteed the next day I will sound like a truck driver. Really, it's true. Codye even notices it. So I just try to avoid them.
I loved "IRONMAN." It is the best movie I've seen in forever.
I hate jeans with glittery crap on the butt.
And it annoys me when "old ladies" (or just girls my age who have kids) dress like they're in high school. Grow up. And dress like it.
I am a fashion retard. I am aware of this and I have accepted it.
I cannot wear fashionable shoes just because they are fashionable. If they aren't comfortable, forget about it.
My hiking boots make me look so granola but I don't care. I love them.
I am most comfortable in jeans and a white t-shirt. And above mentioned boots.
I probably own 12 or 13 white t-shirts.
I hope that an off-white turtleneck, a black skirt and black tights will always be in fashion. That's one thing I can pull off.
I do enjoy dressing up for a night out once in awhile.
One of my biggest pet-peeves is cars with bumper stickers that have such small writing you practically have to rear-end the car just to read what it says. And the statement is usually not worth the risk involved.
One of the best bumper stickers ever is "Somewhere in Texas, a village is missing it's idiot." I may not agree, but I have to hand it to whoever came up with it- it's clever.
One of my favorite memories was staying up half the night with Codye stealing every "W 04" sign we could find and sticking every single one of them on Todd & Kelsey's lawn. That was hilarious.
I talk to my mom and 2 of my 3 sisters practically every day.
Having kids has made me closer to my sisters. That and the fact that we all live in different states...
I have fallen asleep with chocolate. And ice cream. Recently.
I prefer a stick shift over an automatic any day of the week.
I can do the splits.
I can't run to save my life.
I have been bit by a horse. And by more than one dog. Codye thinks I should learn from these experiences... maybe one day I will. Most likely I won't.
I love animals. I want dogs, cats, horses, chickens.
I love road trips. I don't think anything brings people closer than jam-packing them in a car for a good ol' trek cross-country.
Codye first told me he loved me on a road trip. That was the best road trip of my life.
I don't know what to do with my wedding dress. I haven't pulled it out of the box since the wedding and I shudder to think about the lip-paint that was smeared across the chest (sigh).
I have stinky feet. Always have, always will. I just hope my children don't inherit that trait.
I don't paint my pinky nail on my foot. It is practically non-existent so I figure, Why bother?
I can't get a tan by the sun. Anytime I try, I get coldsores. That's why I go tanning.
I love to play the piano. I am terribly out of practice, but I love to sit down and jam.
I love to take pictures. I annoy Codye to death sometimes taking pictures. I just don't think you can have too many memories. Love to take them, love to be in them, love to do silly poses...
The best pictures are the ridiculous ones you pose for. (Like, smelling the flowers- sound familiar, Tracie?)
There is nothing more wonderful than children who are sound asleep. In their own beds.

Blessing Day

2008-06-01T23:24:00.009-06:00

Codye blessed our little Johnny today. He did such an amazing job. And little Johnny did great. I am so grateful to be married to a man who is such an incredible father who uses his Priesthood for our kids. What a blessing that is to our family. An extra special blessing.

S'more? No, Thanks.

2008-05-31T06:08:00.008-06:00

Apparently Miss Kate thinks roasted marshmallows are disgusting. She couldn't get over the whole "burnt" part and went straight for the grahams... and the chocolate! (no, it's not a 5 o'clock shadow. It's a chocolate beard...)

Monkey See Monkey Do

2008-05-28T10:54:00.008-06:00

"Is mom watching me? This will be fun!

I know just how to do this. I've seen Mom do it 1,000 times... now let's see.

Ok, they go here, but what if...

hahaha... I am such a clever girl!"

(yes, mommy washes them thoroughly after each use!)

I love it when Kate tries to pump, just like her mommy. Hey, the more (milk) the merrier!

THANKS FOR BEING SUCH A GOOD HELPER, KATE!

He's worth it...

2008-05-28T00:26:00.005-06:00

Not only is he worth those 38 weeks I was pregnant with him, every one of the 200 or so minutes I was in labor with him (short, but still intensely painful!), but he's also worth being asked if I'm pregnant 4 months after the fact. (Seriously. Whoever started that rumor about how nursing helps get rid of the baby weight ought to be sat on by all of us who that doesn't apply to!)

I'll keep it up for you John-boy. Because I love you so much. And I'm sure you'll thank me for it... someday. :P

Classic Cunningham Outing

2008-05-27T10:55:00.008-06:00

What an AWESOME Memorial Day weekend we had! Codye had Friday and Monday off, so we decided to do a little something out of the ordinary. We went with Paul & Dorth and their kids out to the West Desert to hunt for Geodes. It was a blast!

We dug for rocks for a couple of hours. Then we drove a ways to a place where the boys could go shooting and the girls could feed the babes and prep the tin-foil dinners.

Codye caught me a lizard and Kate shot her very first rifle. Okay, I'm kidding about the Kate shooting bit, but we really did bring home a lizard. His name is Sid.

Of course, getting a flat while off-roading was inevitable. However, only a true Cunningham adventure would include getting a second flat (different tire, nonetheless) miles and miles from anything and after hours on a holiday weekend. Fortunately after 4 years of such adventures, we were prepared for (almost) anything. Ok, we didn't have a jack that worked or a "spare" spare. But we had plenty of water, lots of treats, changes of clothes and great company.

Definitely would do it again. In a few years or so...

My Cute Family

2008-05-21T05:24:00.010-06:00

I love this weather! It is such a nice feeling to get outside and feel the sun shining. (Isn't my husband cute!)

Sunday night we pulled the bikes out and took the kids for a spin. Down our crazy steep hills to the park. (Codye conveniently got a flat so we had to bum a ride home. Thank goodness Bill was not only done with church for the day, but willing to rescue us!) Then, for playgroup Monday morning, I made Kate walk to the park pulling Abbs along with the leash. She got so worn out. It was the greatest thing ever. (Turning into a couch potato is way too easy. I never realized how bad we'd gotten.)

When Codye got home later we took another stroll up to the park. He took Kate on the big huge slide. Terrified at first, then loving it saying "More, more." We walked home and Codye taught Kate how to get a drink from the hose. Now she thinks the hose is the greatest thing EVER.

"All that I am, or hope to be, I owe to my angel mother"

2008-05-16T13:43:00.003-06:00

To my beautiful mother.
Who gives so much and gets so little.
Mom, you have so many qualities I admire. Too many to list. But let's try...
For starters, you are a class act. Class with a capital C! You dress better than anyone I know (or anyone I've seen on tv). And your car shouts class as you drive down the street. (Well, we all know that act of class would not include shouting, but you understand.)
You are nails. Stronger than anyone could or should ever have to be. I don't know how you did it with 4 daughters and a mini shnauzer. And besides just doing it, you have 4 daughters who prove you did it well!
You are so smart. I really need not elaborate on this. You're smart.
You are beautiful.
You have a great sense of humor. And you've given me so many memories. "Where's the fudge" and "Lightning Strikes" are words that will forever have great meaning.
You are generous. I have never known anyone to do so much for so many and still have the energy to come home and take care of ME!
You spend your days give give giving and you thrive on it- which in and of itself makes you even more incredible.
Well, I could go on, but I just have a few more minutes left before Johnny wakes up, so I am going to get into the shower. But I love you and hope that you know it every day. I hope you know how much I appreciate the love and concern I feel from you on a daily basis. How I feel a sincere concern for my welfare and the welfare of my family. I love you.
Happy Mother's Day. a day or two late.

edwardo

2008-05-16T00:05:00.006-06:00

there's an empty spot on the couch tonight.
no one that will curl up on top of my toes if I need a little extra warmth during the night.
no one to open the door to let himself out.
no one to nip at abbye's ears and cause a little excitement.
how will we ever get home if our bike chain falls off and the kids are in the bike trailer?
whoever knew a dog could have a tongue hang nine inches out of his mouth and still be so cute and full of personality.
no more silky ears to pet and cold nose to avoid.
no more codye racing across the house to try to catch him in the act.
our family got a little smaller today.

My Mother's Day

2008-05-14T12:25:00.004-06:00

We had ourselves a nice, chill Mother's day this year. Started off with church (love Kate's new sandals!)

and went to Grandma Kitty-Cat's for a yummy supper.

Then finished the evening off with a nice rocket launching with the boys.

All in all, I'd say it was a nice day.

Happy Mother's Day!

Our Boy

2008-05-12T04:57:00.008-06:00

HAPPY 3 MONTHS, JOHNNY!!

We are so grateful for our little guy who is happy and healthy and brings many smiles to our faces. He's starting to talk to us and I swear, he's trying to do sit ups. I think he is going to skip over the crawling stage and just start RUNNING! He is so strong. I love it. I love him. We are so lucky to have him as part of our family.

I needed a good laugh.

2008-05-07T21:20:00.004-06:00

by Codye Cunningham

I don’t know how I came this way
I’m sure it was by happenstance
It just so happens that this day
I cannot fit into my pants

There was a day I was nice and slim
I did not walk without a strut
But now I fear to my chagrin
I knock things over with my butt

At first I had a little snack
And then a snack between my meals
So when my wife exclaims “I’m Fat!”
I know exactly how she feels

**Codye wrote this poem after we were married and it still cracks me up. HIS WRITING IS SO CLEVER.

Our Home. Well, almost.

2008-05-06T11:05:00.009-06:00

Look how cute! The inside is just ADORABLE! And the yard is beautiful! It's just small. Too bad that we'll probably move in, accidentally get pregnant- with twins, and be up a creek. Well- maybe we could make it work for a year or two.... isn't it cute though? It has 2 beds upstairs, 1 down, and an adorable kitchen and nice shag carpeting throughout. (I know some sweet little old lady kicked it here right up to the end... the place is immaculate!) Plenty of work to do to keep us busy, but still very awesome. Just not a lot of room to grow. (P.S. It's in Rose Park. Awesome. I'm gonna have bilingual kids.) The thing is is it's totally just sitting there vacant. Waiting for us to put an offer on it and move in. Give me 3 days. It'll be done. (Codye will drive home clear to F-town only to discover that the moving has been done by his amazingly impatient wife!)

fine fine

2008-05-03T08:33:00.000-06:00

Alright- it's too funny. Here we have it.

well wouldn't you know it

2008-05-01T23:51:00.003-06:00

I have decided that potty training can be fun. I now have an excuse to feed my child candy for breakfast, lunch and dinner. And for all her in-between meal snacks. It's fantastic. Kate and I are now on the same diet. Candy candy candy candy candy. And it's so much cheaper than fresh produce. And WAY easier to prepare. (I can't ask her if she'd like ice cream for breakfast. She thinks it's a trick. "No greakgrest mommy. I ice cream.")
But seriously. I have gotten so disgusted by the special potty chair that it had to go. My life just got 3x easier. Now when I command her to go sit on the potty from my permanent fixture on our once-nice now milk-stained leather couch, she runs over to the "toy-yet" and uses her little stool for assistance. Twice now after watching her put her "when my mother calls me quickly I'll obey" lessons/beatings to use, I have been startled to hear "AH! HEP ME MOMMY! STUCK!!" only to find my little bug has fallen into the toilet. (In her hustle to get on, she forgets to check for her special "I have a small bum" seat. Sorry. I can't always remember to put it back. Plus- she is her father's girl. Neither of them would notice if you moved the porcelain seat into the hallway.) Anyway- the first incident was yesterday and I was ill prepared. (Not only could I not find the camera- I was so taken back by what I was witnessing I just burst into laughter. Fortunately for everyone, Kate started to laugh too after she realized she, well, did she realize her knees were touching her chest and her bare bottom was in the toilet?) and the second was today. Too bad for Kate that the camera was within my reach on today's fall. Too bad for anyone needing the picture for a laugh- I promised the love of my life that I wouldn't post anymore potty pictures (that and the fact that our computer is in the shop). And too bad for me- two bum dips was enough for Kate. She figured out how to help herself out. A good laugh is so hard to come by!

2008-04-19T22:08:00.007-06:00

All my boys

Eddye loves to rest his big hairy face right on Johnny on the couch. I think it’s cute. And one of the benefits of pumping is that daddy can take a turn feeding the babe... (Oh if only I can keep it up for another 8 months!)

2008-04-17T01:03:00.000-06:00

Bad News

2008-04-13T23:53:00.001-06:00

I'm sorry to inform everyone that, although Kate is beautiful on the inside as well as the outside, we will not be posting any more pictures of her for a few weeks. Kate got herself a real bad haircut. Now, I'd like to blame Kate for the massacre, but I'm afraid I'm the one to blame. (Codye asked me why I made our daughter look like a boy... but she doesn't seem to mind.)

Disclaimer

2008-04-11T15:00:00.000-06:00

The reason I take so many quizes and post them on my page is because I want OTHERS to do the same so I can see what their results are! But posting them must be lame because NO ONE EVER POSTS THEIR RESULTS! I'm just slow to know the trend.

Training Camp at the Cunningham's

2008-04-11T09:57:00.000-06:00

As if having a newborn isn't a big adventure in and of itself, Little Miss Kate decided that she was ready to be going potty like a big girl in the toilet. Maybe I should rephrase. She didn't decide so much as she was just ready. We spent Saturday going over details- wet pants v. dry pants... you know. Weve had a few accidents, but all in all, here it is Friday and she has really done great. She woke up from her nap yesterday with DRY PANTS and this morning from 12 hours of sleep- totally dry and very proud of herself. (Offering suckers and a pee-pee chart to put stickers on has been the best method.) She is brilliant and will do almost anything for a candy bar. I swear, I don't know where she gets it!

Now, Little Johnny wasn't born a great sleeper like his big sis, thus, the book "On Becoming Babywise" was introduced to the family. Training Johnny how to settle himself down to sleep by establishing a routine- this has been so difficult but with awesome results thus far (we're on day 3. If what everyone says is true, by day 14- we'll be golden). I am such a space cadet and following any type of schedule is absolutely against my nature- but this book has been WONDERFUL for me. (For those of you unfamiliar, the idea is to feed your baby, keep the baby awake and have awake time then down for nap "cold turkey" in order to establish a self-soothing method on his own.) The "cold turkey" bit is the hardest- because Johnny's just had to tough it out. He started the process by crying himself to sleep. I never would have been able to let Kate cry it out for this long- but I can only keep telling myself that the outcome is more important than my feelings of being a neglectful mother. Anyway- he's been great. He's such a strong little guy. He's been sleeping much longer at night and the crying is steadily decreasing. (I feel awful admitting that I make my baby cry himself to sleep.) But, as you can see- he is still smiling. I have the greatest kids a mom could ask for. I just hope that in 30 years, he doesn't blame his insecurity issues on me!

I rule

2008-04-10T20:53:00.000-06:00

Which Movie Mom Are You?

My Result: The Sound Of Music's Maria Von Trapp

OK, so maybe you never went straight from a convent to motherhood, but it's a safe bet that you encourage and support your family in much the same way that Maria did. Playful and yes, sometimes a little mischievous, you tend to lead by doing, and you always make sure to help your children achieve their goals without actually doing it for them.

You inspire your family because you always find creative ways to make even the most mundane chores or homework problems seem fun and important. And you want others to try to find the beauty in life — whether it's from art, music, books, or adventure. Those are just a few of your favorite things.

What are you?
http://web.tickle.com/jumpto?test=moviemomogt&c=50652

Whose Girl?

2008-04-02T09:29:00.000-06:00

I am running around trying to get our house clean- Johnny is on the blanket next to Kate doing tummy time and Kate decides that she wants to mimick mommy. (Except, I never sit in the laundry basket...)

She cracks me up. I swear, if it wasn't for her, I'd be going CRAZY! Oh wait. She's just as guilty as her brother when it comes to pushing me over the edge. Anyway- it's cute moments like this that make me stop what I'm freaking about and laugh out loud. Gotta love those moments.

Welcome the Chariot...

2008-03-24T12:22:00.000-06:00

Well, it paid off. My months of selling and selling and saving and saving and I finally got to get my Chariot. The Cougar 2. I swear- I've been wanting it since we found out we were pregnant with KATE! It was funny- when I went to pick it up, well, for starters, it doesn't come with those front wheels. We had to purchase those separately (along with the bike attachment (yeah!) and the infant sling for Johnny). So anyway- I'm manuvering it to the registers and out of the store, carrying all the accessories, holding Kate's hand and Johnny in his carseat and my purse- you would think that I would have at LEAST had someone OFFER to lend a hand- either to the register (from the back of the store) or to my car. Not one person. I had more sympathy from the subway passengers in New York! I couldn't believe it. REI is usually my most favorite place- not on Saturday. Anyway- it was quite the picture. But, the important thing is that we got it and it ROCKS! I'm in love. (Kate loves it, too. "I Yuv It Mommy." I'll be posting pictures from our afternoon strolls soon.)

The Hunt

2008-03-19T15:29:00.001-06:00

What fun we had at Gramma & Papa's Easter/St. Patrick's Day Egg Hunt! Kate LOVED that the boys came up just to see her! ("Boys? See me?") As you can see, it was very intense. The heat was on to get all those eggs! And mommy just loved having all that candy around the house for BREAKFAST the next morning! Everyone benefits when we go to Gramma's!

Tribute to Emmy Lou

2008-03-19T15:16:00.000-06:00

A story (from the kitty calendar, thank you mother! funniest gift you ever got me!) for those who knew Emmy Lou- our sweet kitty-cat who lived well beyond 9 lives.

"When another driver kept signaling her to pull over, Estelle of Alabama refused to stop until she saw a security guard in front of a housing development. 'HEY LADY,' the guard yelled. 'There's a cat on your roof!' And there was Ronald, her black-and-white tom, spread eagle on the luggage rack, having survived the ride of his life."

My amazing new life

2008-03-11T21:29:00.000-06:00

I never knew how much fun being a mother would be... I just can't wait til I have 7 or 8 of these!

Ole told me today that I need not give in to the social pressure of repopulating the earth. My response to him was "My kids are so good looking. Don't I owe it to the world to do what I can to make it a better place?"

I found this picture on my phone today. It was taken the day before Kate's life would change forever... February 7th. Isn't she gorgeous? She has perfect skin. And those eyes. I have been so proud of her. She has a maternal instinct with her new brother that somehow found it's way through the jealous barrier. In fact, tonight, she asked me to "hold him" and so I had her get on the couch and I put him on her lap. She asked for a bottle. Then, after a few minutes, she started to push him away saying "All done." I guess she'd had enough...

And my little prince. He just loves the sun. He can't WAIT for the weather to warm up so he can get outside. I know that's what's been keeping him up at night... I have a feeling that he's going to be an outdoorsman just like his daddy. And sister.

I am Belle!

2008-03-04T12:44:00.000-07:00

You Are Belle!

Intelligent and kind. Your beauty goes much further than your apperance. Also, you make judgements of people based on their personality and not their looks. Attaining all the knowledge that you can is one of your major goals in life, but you are also a person who can make things happen.

Which Disney Princess Are You?

Happy Birthday Katie May!

2008-03-03T17:54:00.000-07:00

We had so much fun celebrating Kate's 2nd Birthday! She loved her Princess cake and having the boys over.

Family Update (finally!)

2008-03-02T20:16:00.000-07:00

To all you mothers out there with more than one child, I don't know you do it.

You are amazing!

(You mothers with one child, you're amazing, too!)

We've been having a lot of fun with our new baby, John. He looked just like my baby when he was born (I'm not supposed to label him as looking like his sister, but he did!) He has beautiful skin and the Cunningham mouth. I think he has his daddy's eyes, but it's too soon for me to really be able to tell. He has Papasan Randy's eyebrows and the royal calic. And he has ZUNDEL EARS! I'm so proud!

He is a terrible sleeper, but I knew that he would be from the day we found out he was a he. He and Codye have that in common. It's just too bad Codye can't feed him throughout the night. He loves to nurse and is growing like a weed- something that gives me great peace of mind. What a blessing to feel like a milking machine!

Little John is taking after his big sister as far as being tall and skinny goes. He is in the 75 percentile for his height and 34 percentile for his weight. We hope he has the athletic skill his daddy has (had?) since he's going to be an all-star.

Kate is loving her baby John, although I think she wishes she still had that title in our family. She thinks that he always has a poopy diaper and loves to help me change him. Poor little guy. (We have to protect his ule from her because she thinks it needs to be pointed at and poked every time he gets changed. What do you do? She isn't trying to rip it off, so I think that's a good thing. But I don't know- maybe that will be her next move.) She's great to hold his bottle or binki. I just love watching her look at him. She really is already looking out for him. The bond they have already is priceless.

We have had to make bedtime our special together time. She loves to have mommy lay down next to her and read her stories and sing her the Temple song. And she's getting so good at saying her prayers. She is almost keeping her eyes closed the whole time! And she tries to beat me to saying "amen." It's cute. She got to sit on Papa's lap during church today while her daddy bore his testimony. I wish I could have been there- I hear it was beautiful.

I love my husband so much. In spite of all the hard work he endures all day, he manages to come home to me and help me out so much. Having two kids has rocked my world. Besides that he was amazing during my labor with Johnny, he has really been outstanding in his "new" role as "father of two". The scare we had with John at the hospital really humbled him quite a bit. It's unreal how precious and fragile yet resilient these little new spirits are. I'm so grateful that Johnny is healthy and strong and wonderful. I feel like the luckiest woman in the world.

Tubby Tubby

2008-02-26T19:04:00.000-07:00

Kate sure loves her little brother. She doesn't understand how fragile he is- but that doesn't matter!

My little bear

2008-02-12T09:29:00.000-07:00

Kate loves her new car buddy!!!

HE'S HERE!

2008-02-10T13:26:00.000-07:00

Our beautiful John William Atticus joined us on February 8th at 3:16 p.m. Weighing in at 8 lbs. 2 oz. and already trying to impress his daddy with his strength. We're so blessed with wonderful support and short labors. More pix coming soon! Thanks to everyone for all their love and help.

Have YOU seen my Kate?

2008-01-30T10:42:00.000-07:00

Am I a horrible mother because I thought this was the funniest thing ever???

Christmas with the Cunningham's

2008-01-01T11:31:00.000-07:00

We had such a blast this holiday season! We started the month with Festival of Trees (mommy's personal favorite). Then about a week later, we drove through the lights at Thanksgiving Point. Kate got to stand in the front seat of the car and was amazed at all the fun light displays. I would have thought that was her favorite- until we went to Temple Square. It was a freezing cold night but we had to make it before Christmas... Kate seemed mystified. It was so awesome. The lights there are amazing! And having daddy to tell us about every single tree on the premises makes it an educational experience as well. Whoever knew that tree facts could be so interesting!?

Besides all the sights we had to see, Codye continued the family tradition of surprising mommy with a Christmas Tree. However, this year he changed things up a bit. This year, he brought home a real live Christmas Tree. (Actually, a Dwarf Scotch Pine.) We decorated it with our ornaments but didn't put any lights on it. It's a beautiful tree and as soon as we get a house it's going into the ground. I can't wait!

Christmas Eve at Gramma & Papa Lewis' was quite an exciting event! Kate had a lot of fun with her cousins. In the nativity this year, Kate got to play Mary (with Isaac as Joseph). Abbye was supposed to act as a lamb, but as you can see, she was mistaken for a donkey. The evening was so much fun. Kate got tired early, which we were so grateful for, and went to bed at 8:30 in spite of all the commotion going on upstairs. That was our Christmas Miracle. :)

Christmas morning we had to wake up our little girl at 8:00 to open presents. She wasn't all that impressed with Santa (since he only brought her books) until she opened the princess purse set which came with a cell phone, sunglasses and a car key complete with keyless entry buttons. (even her cousin Max got a kick out of that gift!!) and the very LAST present which was 2 Brio Train sets. That was a fun surprise- especially for mommy! Santa managed to get one with a battery operated engine that pulls the rest of the cars around the track. Very exciting. And the ZOO set! Kate sure loves those little animals! That gift gave her lots of pleasure until we went upstairs to open gifts with Gramma & Papa. She really enjoyed the magnet set she got! (not so much the clothes. Mommy loved those, and to see her Christmas dress, you'll have to visit http://www.christysdoings.blogspot.com/ and scroll to the "Katie May" section. It's adorable.)

Then we were off to Grandma Kitty-Cat's for Christmas Breakfast with Grandma and the cousins. Kate got her most valued gift there- a baby complete with stroller and binki. She thought the stroller was for her and broke it immediately. Fortunately for everyone, Grandma is a master seamstress and fixed it on the spot. (To see the beautiful coat she received from Grandma Kitty-cat, it's on Christy's website- above. Awesome.)

We got to take a nap before heading over to Papasan's and Janie's for Christmas Feast. Of course Randy cooked a fabulous meal and then we got to open some fun presents! Kate got a Princess book and an adorable outfit and her Lego Blocks! Her collection is growing!

We had such a fun Christmas. Watching Kate and all the fun she had made it extra special. We are so lucky to be blessed with such wonderful family and friends. What a fun time of year!