The Young Bunch

Being Home

2011-12-21T22:01:00.001-08:00

So the kids and I are getting a nice routine at home. Luckily we are in a new town where we don't know anyone so not too many social engagements which gives us time at home to get a little more settled. It is hard having to move and have a baby right before Christmas. Been a little crazy getting ready for the holidays and situated in our new house but we are coming along. I will be excited when holidays are over so life will slow down a little.

With Augie gone at work so much we have had to do lots of outings with all three and it really has not been too bad. The older girls are such good sports and such a help.

I do love having all girls and getting matching outfits. Addison always tries to match the baby and then wants a pic.

Our gingerbread house actually stayed together really well this year.

Our family stocking stuffer

Got really nice Christmas tree this year.

Dad taking his token naps with the sleeping baby.

Love her hair, all fluffy after a bath.

Coming home!!!

2011-12-21T21:22:00.001-08:00

So life has been going so fast ever since we came home from the hospital. I have to say coming home from the hospital on Thanksgiving Day with a house full of people is a little bit crazy, would not recommend it.

The first week home from the hospital while still being at my moms was good as we all adjusted to life with another addition to the family. The baby had a little jaundice and was pretty sleepy not wanting to eat but we got it figured out. After staying at my moms for a just under a week from the day Emerson was born we loaded up in the car and headed to Nevada.

Road trip actually went amazing. Older girls did great for such a long road trip. Baby slept and ate great at each stop. Never had to do unplanned stops but still was a long day. Once we arrived at our Carson City home life was pretty hectic!!!!!

Having a newborn, recovering from labor, being in a new home and town, and a house still in boxes, and coming back from being on a trip for two weeks is a lot. I have to say I just wanted to cry the next day after arriving it was a lot to take in....

We used the next couple of days at the house before Augie started work to get as much done and settled before I was on my own with three. Since he started work we have slowly adjusted. Unfortunately he has been working a crazy amount. Leaves at 7am and gets home at 7;30pm at the earliest. So it is just me and the kids all day. Needless to say we have adjusted quick and have just jumped right in. Here goes nothing.................

Three kids in the back seat a little tight. Hopefully purchase of a new car will come soon!

Was able to meet up with my best friend in twin as she was headed home as well. We both recently had little girls so had to meet each others little ones.

Our kids are getting so big.

This little one sleeps so perfectly still. I check to make sure she is still breathing all the time.

Lots of cousins on Thanksgiving.

Girls were so excited to have her home. Addison asks to hold her about every 30 sec. Hope the novelty wears off soon.

Emerson Lee Young

2011-11-22T22:18:00.000-08:00

She has arrived. Born at 4:24pm. Weighing in at 7lbs 7oz and 21 inches. Took her a little while to get here but all went well and mom and baby doing great.

Girls could not be more excited. She will have plenty of Moms.

Almost done

2011-11-20T13:01:00.001-08:00

I am almost 39 weeks and thus almost done. This picture was taken on Saturday and I am scheduled to be induced Tuesday so basically what I look like before I pop. Have to say this has been the hardest and most painful pregnancy. Might have to do with all the moving and other stresses of our current life but regardless ready to have her out. I have swelled and had so much pelvic pain with this one that I never did with the other girls. Not sure if its cause the little one will be massive or just her position. At least end in sight.

Addy is FIVE

2011-11-20T12:27:00.001-08:00

Addy celebrated her birthday the weekend before we did the big move. Luckily she had been watching toy story recently so packing a house and doing a big move right after you celebrate a big birthday is totally normal.....

We decided this would be the year we spent the big chunk of change on a build a bear. Addison was not really sure as to what build a bear entailed so was quite the surprise and adventure. I had so much fun watching her pick through everything and thoroughly accessorize her bear.

Of course had to get the most colorful one. Oh Addison.

Got bear all cleaned up.

Tried on lots of outfits.

Addy really enjoyed doing the info. on bear because she has gotten so good at the computer and typing.

Of course Addy had to head to the mall in her hat and with her card so everyone would know it was her birthday.

She now is the proud owner of a build a bear. She named the little one Heart or Hearty Heart depends when you ask her. Was great experience.

We came home from the mall and did cake and presents. This Birthday ended up being Rapunzel themed although that was not really planned just happened. Her wig of LONG LONG LONG hair was so fun. Scared Paiton a little at first.

Overall was a good birthday. We love our big FIVE YEAR OLD.

Our Crazy Life

2011-11-20T11:46:00.000-08:00

Just a little update and explanation as to what our life entails at this moment.....

First: JOB
Augie accepted a job in Carson City, NV working in Orthopedics. We are very excited and we can't wait for him to start. He is scheduled to start Dec. 1st. It is ridiculous the amount of paper work that is entailed before starting. So that is what Augie has been working on for past couple of months along with many other side jobs I have given him to do.

Second: MOVE
Seeing how the job is not in Boise we are moving. We have found a home in Carson City to rent until we decide if we want to plant roots there or not. Needless to say things have been crazy trying to arrange everything to move to another state. As of now we are out of the home in Boise and have our belongings in the home in Reno. Yet we are not unpacked or moved in which brings us to crazy life number 3...

Three: BABY
I am due Nov 29th with baby girl number 3 and plan to be induced on Nov 22. We are currently staying in Pocatello at my Mom's to have that baby here and spend up to one week regrouping after baby arrives. Augie is due in Reno Dec 1st and we hope to be able to leave a couple days before that to all head to Reno.

As you can see our life is, has been, and will be crazy for the next month or so. So far we have been incredibly lucky and have received so much help from the people around us. We have had a lot of hiccups along the way or disasters call them what you want but we trying hard to stick to the plan. There have been scares of baby coming early, car troubles, unplanned trips to Reno for training, home repairs not anticipated, and many many more.

Augie and I can say without a doubt this has been the MOST stressful time of our life and we can't wait for things to calm down and some level of normalcy to return. The girls have been such troopers and for the most part are handling all the stress and changes well. We are just holding our breath all goes well with the delivery of the little one and she arrives safe and healthy and we will be on our way to Carson City..... Wish us luck!!!!!

Car Seat Cover

2011-11-01T21:24:00.001-07:00

When having your third girl there is not a whole lot one needs. So I found cute way to update car seat and make something new for baby.

Was quite the project but loved the way it turned out.

Halloween

2011-11-01T20:57:00.000-07:00

We did a lot for the Halloween season so I included all the photos related.

Kids finally old enough to get concept of going door to door and get into it. Good thing we brought wagon though they pooped out quick.

Classic Truck or Treat. I love this tradition the cars are so close together!!!

Paiton barely fit in her car seat.

Cute girls!!!

I did the Halloween Party for preschool this year. Kids tick or treated door to door in the house.

Good thing kids don't notice how different gluten free sugar cookies are. Put enough frosting on them and it all tastes the same.

Cute haunted houses. If Augie had not been home to help they would never have been completed. Who knew glue and stick was so complicated for 3yrs old.

All dressed up

Our beautiful carved pumpkins. Kids were really into being scary this year.

Paiton supervised very closely.

Addy really got into digging out seeds; Paiton not so much.

Hope everyone else had a good Halloween.

33 weeks

2011-10-13T21:16:00.001-07:00

Baby is head down and settling in yet still moves a ton. I can not believe how much I feel her move and how much it hurts. Its going to be a big one!!!!!!

Random

2011-10-13T21:06:00.000-07:00

Addison loves laundry day because once all her clothes clean she again has so many options. The kids till goes through at least two or three wardrobe changes a day. What a girl. She loves to lay out all possible outfits and then pick. She laid all these out and then pointed out how they color coordinated and why they went together. She is so fun sometimes.

Took the time to straighten Paiton's hair for a baptism the other day and could not believe how different she looked. She loved how long her hair looked. She kept touching it all night.

Dad decided getting a GIANT bag of peanuts from Costco was a good idea. Yeah real fun for me when kids participated. We will not be buying them again.

Addison reading on the toilet with her sweet sunglasses that convert to regular glasses. I died laughing when I walked in on this.

Pumpkin Patch

2011-10-13T20:47:00.000-07:00

We did our annual pumpkin patch trip this year with Paiton's preschool group. Girls had a great time and Paiton got so much more involved than she did last year. So fun Augie was home and able to go with us. A good day.

I let the girls color their pumpkins and draw faces for the couple of weeks leading up to Halloween before we carve them.

Having our little treat after the field trip.

Paiton preschool group was not into posing for a cute photo I guess.

Luckily another mom had an older child home that day who could be Addy's on buddy on the field trip.

Kids were so funny during their haystack maze.

When they learned about how a pumpkin grows all got really involved.

This is a giant box of corn kernels that kids play in like a sand box. Could not even get Paiton to go in last year. Huge improvement in overcoming her sensory issues.

Good times as Linder Farms Pumpkin Patch.

Questions from Addy

2011-10-08T20:55:00.000-07:00

Addy "Mom at what speed do you brush your teeth? 31, 32, 35?"

Me "Uh what do you mean?"

Addy "What speed do you brush your teeth?"

Me "35??????"

Addy " Oh I better go faster."

We wont go into all the detailed questions she has been asking about pregnancy and labor.....

Gluten Free

2011-09-28T21:58:00.001-07:00

I am finally at a point that doing most things gluten free feels normal. I also have had a lot of success lately in baking gluten free which is very motivating. When Paiton was first diagnosed and if I attempted to bake anything it was always a disaster. You have to use three to four different types of flours and many ingredients like xanthum gum that I had never heard of. So I decided to stick to ridiculously expensive store bought items until I got a handle on things. Took a little over a year but finally felt ready to embark again.

Lately we have found some amazing recipes and flour mixes that actually bake really well and don't taste like gluten free. There are still plenty of things that even though they bake well you can tell the difference but they do still taste good. I can not even tell you how much I missed a can of cream of chicken soup to use while cooking. The homemade gluten free recipe I came across for that is awesome and I cook using it all the time. I missed what that added so much to recipes.

A lot of the last year was spent making and eating dinners that did not taste good and looked weird. Yet I had spent too much time, always making all things and ingredients from scratch, and money, gluten free is EXPENSIVE, to throw away or waste anything. Thus dinner has been a sore subject for last year. I dreaded it every single day.

But I can say I now look forward to cooking dinner again and most nights actually like what we are eating. There are still plenty of disasters but I do have hope.

Anyways, tonight I did gluten free pizza and made little ones so I could freeze some for Paiton for future quick meals. We had just avoided pizza for awhile or I would just get regular for the rest the family and make Paiton something else. I did not realize how much she missed pizza or missed eating what we did until tonight.

Having gluten free bread product of any type be fluffy and and not totally burnt is a huge success.

Paiton was so so so excited to have pizza like the rest of us and just kept telling and showing everyone in the house that she had pizza to. I almost wanted to cry to see how happy she was and how much she loved making and eating pizza. All during dinner she just kept pointing out that she was eating pizza like everyone else.

It is these moments that enduring that last year and committing to a life of doing gluten free makes it all worth it (believe me many moments I wish quitting was an option). Her being happy and healthy means everything. Was a good dinner tonight.

Life with girls

2011-09-28T21:41:00.001-07:00

So I have been noticing a lot how my life is different from other parents because we have all girls in this house. Especially with one more on the way I think about it all the time. Here are a few good pics to document it.

We do dress up constantly. The girls are always changing clothes and putting outfits together. It makes quite a mess and I can never find my shoes but I laugh every time I see the combinations.

I do a lot of hair. A huge chunk of Sunday morning is spent doing hair, mine usually comes last. It took 3 years to get Paiton's hair to a point that I like it and its long enough, gown in enough, and even enough to really style. I love how it looks lately.... FINALLY! If this kid ever got a hold of scissors and cut her hair I would cry so hard. I do trim it often cause she has serious mullet going on and the sides grow SO SLOW but just trims. Her natural curl really helps.

Her natural curl really helps. Thank goodness for that or we would be lost.

The girls think cleaning is the funnest thing. We scored on a ton of fun storage toy bins that came with a rack at a garage sale. We had quite the project cleaning each one but they loved it.

There are plenty of moments that I want to cry at the thought that we will soon have three girls... but lots of moments that I love it and could not imagine life any other way.

Belly coming in hand

2011-09-22T17:25:00.000-07:00

At least my big belly comes in hand as a pillow for the girls. They love using it as a pillow especially when the baby kicks back and it moves their heads. Good times.

Addy riding with no training wheels

2011-09-22T15:42:00.000-07:00

Addison woke up yesterday determined to learn to ride with no training wheels. She literally was dragging us out of bed at 8:00am to go outside and practice. Augie spent all day yesterday outside with her. She would only come inside briefly to eat or getting something to drink and go right back out. Addy had plenty of moments of being discouraged and frustrated but would cry for a brief moment and then want to get right back to it. We finally had to take the bike away at one point to get her to take a break.

Of course first thing she did this morning was head right back out to keep trying. Augie and I are shocked how driven she is and how little we did in teaching her how to do this. We are so happy for her she has worked so hard last couple of days to achieve it. The video is from today at the park by our house. Go Addy go!

Paiton is all grown up

2011-09-16T19:36:00.000-07:00

So Paiton started preschool last week. She is involved in a little home preschool group that I am doing with other moms. Paiton is loving it and acts so grown up. I cant believe she has reached this point already. Only two more years and her and Addy will both be in school!

Belly at 29 weeks

2011-09-13T21:16:00.001-07:00

Well as with the other pregnancies the belly is huge and sticks straight out. I already get asked constantly when I am due because people assume I am close or even over due. Then usually when I inform them I still have three months to go they then ask if its twins! I guess I should be used to it by the third.

Always wear two layers a least to tone down the belly and especially the BELLY BUTTON. I swear no amount of layers hides my belly button. Here are pics with just the one layer so have accurate record of the belly and its massiveness.

Of course from behind still look like a normal person. People are really in for a surprise when I turn to the side!!!!

Hopefully ten more weeks and it will all be over. Although the next ten weeks will be the worst.

Just Hanging out

2011-09-13T20:29:00.000-07:00

So update on our lives since graduation. For the whole month of August Dad lived in the library studying for his boards. He took the test on Aug 30th and passed with flying colors. We were able to find out his results just two days later which was amazing the waiting was a killer. So now that a huge weight has been lifted off our shoulders, mainly dads, we are on to the job hunt.

Since he passed the test we have just been enjoying family time and hanging out.

Girls have been obsessed with riding bikes outside and just being outside. Really fun to watch them rid bikes and race. Both are really good at going fast.

Paiton has been really into playing potato head lately. I laugh every time she shows me her creations. The little people always have lots of extra body parts.

One of Augie's many projects that I have given to him to keep him busy while he is actually available. His parents were kind enough to let us have some twin beds they had. We are sanding them down and adding a few things to update them before we paint them. Will be really cute to use when I set up the room the girls will share when the baby comes.

This is how my kids did breakfast the other morning. As they watched their shows and played on the computer Augie was on his computer and I was watching television. Did not feel like mother of the year when I realized we were all watching or doing something separate using electronics.

Every time we have a baby I find a dresser for Augie to redo.... This was a great find at garage sale for $10.

Another great find at a garage sale. Girls have really enjoyed taking rides.

Augie Graduated!!!!!!!!!

2011-08-22T20:29:00.001-07:00

So a couple of weekends ago, August 5th, 2011 to be detailed, Augie had the long awaited GRADUATION! That is right we are officially done with P.A. School. NO more school.... Augie has been in school either part time or full time since we got married and he is really done. Will be a weird adjustment to get used to him really being done.

We had a great weekend in Pocatello for the graduation celebrating and visiting with family. Here are the pics from the weekend.

We did the zoo in IF which sounded like good idea at first but walking around for two hours in hot sun just about killed me. Kid enjoyed themselves I just spent the afternoon going from bench to shade spot to bench.

Addison was manipulating the system quite well. Paiton had to idea she was getting the short end of the deal.

We spent an afternoon after that graduation swimming at Grandma and Grandpa Young's motel.

Paiton spent the whole time jumping off the side. I seriously got my workout for the day.

Jake and Aug played some intense basketball.

Here is Dad in his official white coat. Doesn't he look professional.

We are very proud of our graduate. I have to say there we days I never thought this day would come.

Best attempt at group photo. Had to fight for a spot.

Dad getting his diploma and robe for masters.

Here is pics from white coat ceremony. Ceremony ended up being a disaster cause was literally a terrible summer store. Rain, hail, lighting, wind, and more rain. The hour ceremony was cut down to about 10 min. Needless to say they got their white coats. Love this photo cause you can see how few men their were in class. Poor Aug in sea of girls...

Everyone under shelter trying to survive.

Was a great weekend and so exciting to have the end finally come!!!

Paiton is THREE

2011-07-30T21:32:00.001-07:00

We celebrated Paiton's Birthday this weekend and had a blast. Paiton had a birthday princess crown she wore all day and so of course Addison had to wear a hat as well. At least the hats got us free balloons in the toy store. :)

Girls worked really hard to decorate cup cakes for those coming over while I worked on our princess/barbie cake. Was lots of fun and enjoyed decoration at same time without girls getting involved in my project.

We were brave and went out to eat to celebrate which we never do because of Paiton's food issues. I made the effort and called the manager ahead of time and even talked with manager of the kitchen to finalize what we could serve Paiton and how to prepare it. Was a little embarrassing and a lot of work but so fun to eat out as a family and have Paiton enjoy it as well. Guess I better get used to it.

She got a lot of princess and baby doll accessories for her birthday. Poor Augie coming to terms what it will mean having THREE girls and this being his future. He is a good sport.

Addy did really well letting Paiton open her own presents and back off as much as she could to stand to.

Paiton best friend from nursery came to eat cake too.

Can't believe my little girl is 3 she looks so big. Was a great day.

Had the BIG Ultrasound....

2011-07-19T19:43:00.000-07:00

So while Augie was in town for the weekend we were able to get our 20 week ultrasound. About 15sec. into it Augie was able to tell right away it was a GIRL!!!!!! He is handling it really well and we were so excited to see the baby girl. All looked good during the appt. and everything is developing perfectly. She was quite the mover during the appt. so we have to do another ultrasounds in a month to get a better shot of her spine and a few more angles of her heart.

Just trying to come terms with that fact that we will have THREE GIRLS. I have full justification in buying all things pink at this point.....

State Special Olympic Games

2011-07-19T19:18:00.000-07:00

This weekend Augie was able to come home and my Mom and Jake came for the State Special Olympic Games. We all had a blast and had a wonderful weekend enjoying the games.

Opening ceremonies were so fun to see how truly excited all the athletes are to be part of something like this.

Augie being the trooper he is stepped in to help Jake walk with the group. He was not a big fan of the loud band and drums.

Jake competed in basketball and did well. He still struggles with all the noise and people but once given the ball he is almost dead on with his shot. Good asset to the team.

Girls helping Jake celebrate getting his medal. His team placed 2nd.

We had some good friends from our ward who were there also supporting one of their family members. Was so nice to have friends to play with.

After dinner they set up an Olympic town for athletes and families. It consisted of various games and face painting. The girls received tickets for each game they attempted and were able to trade them in for prizes.

Pation did so much better getting her face painted this time. She did not need any help from mom or dad.

At the end of the day when it was all over they had a big dance for all the athletes. I have to say that was my favorite part. Watching all the people dance their hearts out with no hesitation or concern of what others might think was priceless. Was wonderful to see everyone fit in and no one was being made fun of. Jake even danced with a girl for the first time Jake really got excited and interacted with the group the best during the dance than he had all day. My girls unfortunately by 9:00pm were done for the day but I wish I could have stayed and watched longer.

Was a great great day and was so glad we were able to experience it with Jake!

Tumble Class

2011-07-19T19:09:00.000-07:00

During the summer I usually sign the girls up for some classes to help occupy our time and try new things. Last summer we did dance class and swim lessons. Addison insisted she would not do dance again so we tried tumble class this time.

The girls were pretty shy and unsure at first. Once they were able to start jumping and run the joined right in. I was not too impressed with the class for a quick one month summer thing its perfect. They enjoyed themselves.

Paiton was suppose to roll down the wedge but of course she found a way to turn in into a jumping activity.

Stickers for good listening.

Thought stretching was fun afterwards.

Was surprised how really hard balancing is for kids this age.

Week at Parents

2011-07-09T22:42:00.000-07:00

Girls and I ended up staying for the whole week to spend the 4th there. We had a good fun filled week.

Went to a Glenn Beck celebration in Driggs to celebrate 4th. Was a lot of fun and tiring.

Addy had fun with the clothes we brought for the day.

Jake knew how to find a nice shaded spot.

Girls were so cute during raising of the flag

Huge Crowd!

Girls got their faces painted for the first time. Paiton was a little hesitant but she endured it.

Lots of fun bounce houses.

We spent a day in Island Park and did some fishing and saw the sights.

We learned Paiton has a serious digging fetish. Everywhere we were she found dirt to dig in. Her face was constantly dirty as was her clothes. At least she enjoyed it.

Paiton and Weston were the best of buddies. That played so well together.

Mesa Falls

Iverson Family Reunion

2011-07-09T21:49:00.000-07:00

So a couple of weekends ago we headed to Pocatello for a quick little Iverson Family get together. The grand kids had a great time together so fun seeing everyone. Can't believe by this Christmas we will have a total of EIGHT grand kids. The family is growing quick!

We were able to stay for a few more days because Aug had couple days before his next rotation started. Lindsay and Wade also stayed. The kids had such a good time together.

Guys down in there cave!

One of only pics with all the little ones. Augie was lucky one to assist in the photo. Baby Jordyn only one missing.

Of course we had to see Cars 2! Addy was wearing her gear of course. Actually both girls fell asleep during movie.

The famous triplets. Paiton can hang with the boys.

We did lots and lots of swimming over the weekend.

Addy got brave!

Baby #3

2011-07-09T21:42:00.001-07:00

Baby #3 in on its way. Due the end of November. I am almost 21 weeks and we will find out Friday what we are expecting. Here we go...

Another visit to Pocatello

2011-06-06T21:29:00.000-07:00

Last minute we found out Augie had a whole week off from his rotation in Utah so kids and I headed to Pocatello to meet up with Dad.

First night there we were preparing the corn and chicken for dinner. Augie headed out to start up the grill to cook the chicken and found a little surprise..... In all the years at their house they have never had this happen before!

Augie was so excited to drive the riding lawn mower as were the girls.

Couple of days later sure enough the eggs hatched. The little birdies kept us pretty entertained while visiting. My parents were nice enough to leave the birds well enough alone while the kids were there. Cant say they will forgo using the grill all summer....

Dad took the kids to the park for the one day of nice weather we had. Paiton overcame a huge hurdle and worked through her fear of sand touching her feet. Dad said it took awhile for her to achieve this. She was so excited to show me her new talent. Lets hope it sticks all summer.

We also got to celebrate and take part in Jake's first basketball competition for Special Olympics. It was an amazing day and I am so glad we were there to watch and support him.

Augie found out last minute he was able to join the Pocatello team as a helper because they were short a couple people. Really fun to watch him out there with Jake.

Jakes ribbon for his first games of many I am sure. His team won 3rd place. This was just the area games. He has the state competition next month in Boise. So excited to go to that.

After Jakes games we went on to Idaho Falls for the evening. I had never seen the "IDAHO FALLS"!

Preschool Graduation

2011-06-06T21:12:00.000-07:00

Our little preschool group had a graduation party. It was intended to be a celebration at the zoo but after two weeks in a row of terrible weather we did not want to put it off any longer. So last minute I invited everyone to our house to have a party. Turned out to be a lot of fun and girls loved getting ready for it.

We made regular and gluten free cupcakes. Girls loved doing sprinkles and surprisingly a lot of other kids ate the gluten free. If you put enough frosting on things no one can tell the difference!

Poor Addy the only one not going to Kindergarten :(

We had such a fun year doing the preschool group

Sad to see the year end. What will Addy do for the summer....

Life will go on

2011-05-22T19:46:00.000-07:00

So Dad left yesterday for yet another away rotation. Girls had a harder time saying goodbye especially Addy. I think they are catching on that when he leaves its awhile before he returns. Poor us only two more rotations and its all over!!!!!!!!!

Paiton let me curl her hair for church today and I loved it. Most of it is natural curls but I was able to curl her top pieces and bangs. She looked so grown up. We had to do a little photo shoot.

Girls were helping Augie pack the car up to leave. Addy got pretty sad when she realized the whole back seat was full of stuff and there was no room for her. Finally hit her she really was not going.

Paiton really enjoyed her ice cream last night....

Prone to injury in this house

2011-05-05T21:26:00.000-07:00

My poor kids are never going to get portraits taken for their birthdays.

Face plant into the concrete

Little miss fashion all the time.

Face plant into the couch. Literally swelled immediately.

Easter Weekend.

2011-04-26T12:39:00.000-07:00

Well we had a pretty busy easter weekend with lots of things going on. This is a really long post but I figured why not include everything at once rather than do different post.

Went to friends big family Easter Egg Hunt. Girls were ready to go.....

Augie was a little discouraged that are girls didn't have more of a drive to go fast and get more eggs.

They still got full baskets and were happy with the result.

There were four different bounce houses and lunch was served so had plenty to do.

Dying eggs was big hit this year.

Dad picked a fancy kit with painting, stencils, and glitter. Took two hours to decorate eggs this year.

Baskets were fun hiding this year

Actually did good smiles this year for pics.

Then we did our own egg hunt in the backyard.

We also got to watch our buddy Tucker for the weekend. Paiton finally got comfortable around him and played with him all weekend. She even would put his leash on and take him for walks. Was pretty cute to watch.

Not too much going on

2011-03-31T20:29:00.000-07:00

Not too much has been going on at our house except a lot of sickness. We have all been sick with a bad head cold and possible flu for about 3 weeks. I also have been terrible about taking pics so sorry not a whole lot for updated photos.

We had a brief visit from Nana went swimming with her and Uncle Jake, Augie and I celebrated our anniversary, and best part of it all...... Augie did not have to leave to St. George. He was scheduled to leave last weekend but a week before he was suppose to go they changed his schedule. Why they changed it or if he will have to go back there at a later time for a another rotation is still a possibility. So as of now we will just enjoy that we have Dad home.

Girls have been playing really well together and getting into plenty of fights. The imagination play is hilarious and I love listening and watching them play mom and baby. Lots of moments I just wish I had a camera on hand at all times to capture things.

Nice anniversary surprise

Switched Paiton to a toddler bed tonight. She really has been ready for awhile but because she never attempted to climb out of her crib we were not that motivated. We also had a horrible horrible experience with Addy when making the transition so put it off as long as possible. Addy took MONTHS and slept by her door most nights, we had to lock her door to keep her from coming out of her room and endure hours of listening to her scream and kick at her door.

Tonight was the first night and Paiton came out of her room twice. We only had to threaten once to take her blanket and we never heard from her again. All in all I would say it took about 20 min... Yeah a little easier than the first go around. Lets see were it goes.

Addison is coming into her mothering instincts pretty well. She loves to play mom to Paiton and takes amazing care of her dog.

Augie's favorite past time with the kids... has been since day one. Wouldn't it be nice to spend the afternoon napping with my kids.

Adjusting to life with Dad...

2011-03-07T20:09:00.000-08:00

The last couple of weeks have been great having Dad home. It is so so so nice not to be alone all the time and actually have help with the kids. I just hate that he is already halfway through this rotation and then leaves again to St. George. I can not wait for this year to be over.

Here are all the young women I work with!!! There are way too many and the scary thing is there were a good 15 or so missing the night we took this photo. You can imagine with this many teenage girls in a room together how interesting things get sometimes...

This is a picture of all the wonderful leaders I work with. There are more of us than in most wards but as you see due to the size of our group we need some extra hands.

Paiton is potty trained!! This was probably our third or fourth attempt in las six months and she finally got it. Poor kid had bad panic attacks or something of the sort every time she got the urge to go on the potty so it was a process to get her relaxed enough to let it out. We did potty in the front room, with feet in water, while watching a movie, and eating her lunch. Finally she was comfortable enough to RELAX and it has gone great from there.

Now that Paiton wears panties the plumber crack is coming out!

Addy's preschool did the letter Q last week and they had a day for Queen's. All the girls got all dressed up and had a tea party and everything. Addison had a wonderful time picking out her outfit.

Of course Paiton could not be left out. She actually ran errands with me all day dressed like this.

Paiton has not been taking naps anymore for a while now but apparently she couldn't make it to dinner this evening .

My own personal beauty parlor. I knew I would love having girls.

Dad taught the girls how to play tic-tac-toe after FHE last couple of weeks and they love it. Actually both do really well.

What we did for Valentines.....

2011-02-17T14:14:00.000-08:00

So we had an eventful Valentines Day holiday and here is how it all started...

Paiton happy as can be showing off a new outfit from her Nana

Addy working so hard to write her name in all of her Valentines for her class. She did AMAZING on writing her name I was so impressed.

We had crazy weather with ridiculous hail storm

And then Paiton took a spill at the gym while in Day Care and split her chin open. Five stitches later and A LOT A LOT A LOT of crying, bleeding, and pain she was closed up and at home passed out on the couch. I just have say Dad got home from St. George just in time. I do not handle medical emergencies well and it was such a blessing he was able to be there and help with getting her stitched up I couldn't even watch.

We ended our Valentines Day evening with nursing this one and keeping her medicated so she wouldn't be in too much pain. Not quite what Aug and I pictured for a real romantic evening but I think that goes out the door once kids come along to some degree.

She gets her stitches out in a week and we are just praying it does not scar bad. Poor little girl, her face is too perfect to have stitches :(

The rest of our trip

2011-02-08T19:17:00.000-08:00

So here are the pictures from the rest of our trip and what we did while in good old Pocatello.

Addy new Sunday skirt. Grandpa a little nervous she was wearing it to church. Said he pictured it more of a dress up item not church item... Ha not for Addy, she goes all out.

Girls had good time talking to dad on Web Cam. Got all dressed up and everything.

Went swimming with Uncle Jake in Blackfoot

We visited the Gluten Free Bakery while there a couple of times. Loved it! So fun for Paiton to pick something right off shelf.

We went to Utah for the day and saw lots of cousins and family. This is all the girls cousins on Augie side.

We saw Great Grandma Iverson and Aunt JaNae and more cousins. Was a really fun day.

These are JaNae's beautiful children.

Had a real shock coming home from Las Vegas. Next day Pocatello got a ton of snow. Good thing I brought girls snow clothes. They played outside everyday we were there.

Nana was so nice to build snow man with girls while I sat inside with hot chocolate and took pics.

So we had a great time on vacation and as of today only have THREE more days till Dad is home. One more rotation down and four to go before Graduation. We are on our way.

Long and much needed vacation

2011-02-03T21:26:00.000-08:00

So the girls and I took a much needed trip with Nana to Las Vegas to see Daddy and attend my cousins wedding. We first drove to Pocatello and loaded up with Nana and then on to Vegas. We picked Dad up in St. George and were on our way....

Addy loved seeing a bride. She watched her the whole day.

Our attempts at family photo while at temple.

This is photo with Grandma and Grandpa Slade. They are my mom's parents. Was so good to see them and have girls experience their house and amazing basement. As a kid I have a lot good memories in that basement.

Lovely Bride and Groom

Girls loved, loved, loved the reception and dancing. I have some good videos of girls dancing. Will post another time.

We saw our first 3D film at the M&M factory in Vegas. We really were not to impressed to be honest. Good thing this movie was free :)

Jake and Addy still good buddies. She likes to feel like she is watching out and taking care of Jake.

Girls did not leave Dad side whole weekend. I loved it cause finally got a little break.

Crazy week...

2011-01-09T21:12:00.000-08:00

So Dad has only been gone for one week and the kids are already making me doubt how we will survive until he gets he back. Here our some pics of our week... Sorry out of order :(

I just think this is funny and a very adult position that Paiton sits in every time she watches T.V. or chills on the couch. Cracks me up.

Addison decided to wash Paiton's hair in the bathroom sink using half a bottle of soap to do so. When Paiton came out of the bathroom with a grin from ear to ear to show me how soaked she was I immediately turned to Addison. Her response as to what happened was, "things got a little crazy in there". Who even knows...

Now with Augie gone we have a really empty garage. So our good friends took advantage of the empty space to do a late night project. It was really cool to see all the things one can do to camouflage a boat.

I went to take a shower for literally ten minutes top and come out to find this. NEVER EVER has Addison attempted to take my sheets off let a lone disassemble my entire bed and make it into a slide. Seriously have no idea what has gotten into her. The girls were all dressed for church before I got into the shower.

The night before Augie left we spent New Years with friends.

So on top of all of Addison's new tricks she decided to show me this week we also had a great experience the first night Aug was gone. I am a very paranoid person and the hardest thing for me when Aug is gone is being home alone at night. So as we headed to bed the first night since he had left I was already pretty anxious. None the less fell asleep around 1 just to be woken at 2:30am to every smoke alarm in the house going off. Took about 30 min for them to turn off and still have no idea what set them off. Took another two hours to get kids back to sleep. Now as I struggle to go to sleep each night I will also panic of waking up to a house burning down. :)

So as you can see we have had QUITE THE WEEK with Aug gone. And off to a great start.

Christmas is over

2010-12-29T20:46:00.000-08:00

So for Christmas this year we did our first Christmas just us as a family and it was wonderful. Augie and I both were really looking forward to having a low key nice family day and it was wonderful. The kids had a blast and it was so much fun doing it at our own place.

I got my first nativity set thank you to my very talented sister JaNae. Was so excited to put it up this year.

On Christmas eve we got all dressed up to take one photo in front of the tree before Christmas actually happened. I always intend to do it on a Sunday morning during the month but it never happened so we did it last minute. IT WAS A DISASTER... I can not believe how impossible Paiton was. Here are few photos to show are best attempts,

Addison actually took this photo of Augie and I. She did really well I thought. Letting her play with the camera all the time actually came in hand.

Girls opened up pj's the night before. Loved there new clothes.

Here is the Santa spread all put out. Addy got a Jesse doll and Paiton a Buzz Lightyear. Also girls got giant stuffed animals that were a mom and Baby attached together. They have been huge hit. Going to Shopko at 5:00am on black friday to get the animals for 15 dollars totally worth it.

Santa cookies and a note

Addy got a click start from Leap Frog and loves it.

The giant animals go everywhere with the girls

Our family Christmas dinner

Our best friends from Nebraska were in town visiting family so we got some serious needed girl time. It was wonderful.

Hope everyone else had a great Christmas.

One Smart Little Girl...

2010-12-18T12:32:00.000-08:00

So a couple of days ago Addy come home from preschool and grabbed a flag we had lying around the house. She held it up high put her hand over her heart and just said the whole pledge like it was nothing. It blew me away cause I had no idea she could say the whole thing. Kids amaze you sometimes I guess.

Here come the holidays......

2010-12-06T21:52:00.001-08:00

So the holiday season has begun. We have enjoyed it so much so far. For thanksgiving we had all the family, except big wade :( , come to our house!!! It was a tight squeeze with lots of little ones but wonderful to have everyone together and all the cousins hanging out.

Little ones loved going outside. Grandpa was such a trooper and went outside with them as well as read lots of books.

The quick family photo actually went really well considering all the little ones.

We took the little ones to a bounce house. It's a big warehouse with a whole lot of different bounce houses. Was a wonderful place for the kids to burn off some steam.

Once everyone left from Thanksgiving the Christmas Tree and decorations came out. The girls are so excited about Christmas this year. They could not wait to get the tree up.

The day we bought our tree there was a huge snow storm, huge for Boise. We got a total of 61/2 inches. The girls have loved the snow. Paiton actually really enjoys playing in the snow which was a huge shock to us. With all her OCD issues we never thought snow would go over well.

Addy has been asking to go see Santa for weeks so this past weekend we finally made it to the mall to see Santa. She keeps claiming she is " not shy to Santa" guess that means she is comfortable talking to him who knows. Anyways she did amazing and told him everything she wanted. Paiton on the other hand was not nearly as eager, maybe next year.

And tonight we made our gingerbread house for the month. So far the holidays are going great. Hope everyone else is enjoying theirs.

She is a funny girl...

2010-11-18T21:15:00.001-08:00

As we were out running errands a couple days ago we were waiting in the turn lane to go into Walmart's parking lot. Addison noticed the lady on the corner with her arm in a sling and looking a little homeless as she was holding up her cardboard sign and says, "Hey mom look it's your friend from high school." Augie and I look to see who she was referring to and once we realized who she was talking about we just busted up laughing until we were crying.

For those of you I went to high school with sorry apparently Addy saw a not so flattering picture of you somewhere :)

Addy is FOUR

2010-11-16T21:59:00.000-08:00

Our little Addy turned four today. It was a great day. I cant believe she is four already. Today was a CARS BIRTHDAY!!! For well over a month now she has talked of nothing else but her cars birthday. All decorations and even gifts were Lighting McQueen. This obsession with cars has lasted well over a year and we are hoping it is on it's way out.

She got a GIRLS cars t-shirt to start the day with so she could wear it all day. Had to special order it because they DO NOT MAKE GIRLS CARS ACCESSORIES so I really hope she moves onto something girls soon, this is getting really expensive.

The long awaited cars blanket. She has asked for a cars blanket for almost a year and I finally gave in a made one so it could have somewhat of a feminine touch.

I got a little crazy and made a dog blanket and a bag to match her blanket. It was a great birthday. She should be set for awhile as far as acquiring cars items.

I made the blanket with the agreement from her that we would dump the "babees" aka spit rags she sucks on daily and carries everywhere. So we had a last chew on session and put them in the trash. She was excited to get dump them and didn't hold back. We will just see if she is still ok when it sets in they are really gone.

Thank you grandma's and grandpa's for all your gifts. It was a wonderful birthday.

Here is our month of October

2010-10-30T19:34:00.000-07:00

So as usual I like to just post about everything that has been going on all on one post. There is a lot, hang in there.

We have survived FIVE WEEKS with no Dad!!!! He will be coming home next week so we are almost done for now but will do this at least two more times before this school year is over, ahhhh.

Well Halloween was great this year. Both kids used costumes we already had so it made it incredibly easy for me. It was sad to do all the festivities without Dad but we made it through. Tonight we did Trunk or Treat and it was AWESOME. I think because Halloween is on Sunday this year everyone really participated in the Trunk or Treat. It took us an hour to get to all the cars so we had plenty of candy.

How cute

Addy used Nemo two years in a row.

She loved being mini mouse

While in Logan visiting Dad a week ago we went to the pumpkin walk. They had lots of these face picture things (no sure what they are called).

So the whole pumpkin walk was different scenes from popular shows. All the people are mostly made out of pumpkins and squash. It was one of the coolest things I have ever seen.

For weeks leading up to Halloween everyone put on costumes daily.

Girls were showing dad their costumes before we headed to Trunk or Treat

Sorry pics posted SO OUT OF ORDER, and I am too lazy to fix it :(

While at my parents for a week we did a camp out with s'mores.

Bugs Life scene at Pumpkin Walk

Toy Story 2

Girls and I visited Grandpa in Idaho Falls to see the hospital where he works. Also do serious shopping with Nana

Wearing our bathing suits for the day. Who knows.....

Girls would not let Dad out of their site during our visit last weekend.

I had preschool at my house the week before we headed to Nana's. We did the letter P. I had a pj party with pillows and popcorn. Girl had never seen popcorn made from old fashion popper. Was huge hit.

Paiton loved that she was able to participate that week. Especially cause Paiton starts with "p". Look at all those girls. =]

Surviving without Dad

2010-10-09T21:27:00.000-07:00

So we have made it two weeks without Dad so far. First week was the worst but are starting to get adjusted. This week was Addison's preschool groups field trip. We went to the pumpkin patch. Addy has been counting down for weeks. Trip actually went wonderful even though the weather was TERRIBLE. All the kids were too excited so we pressed on.

Riding on the tractor to the pumpkin patch
These are all the kids that attended from our group and siblings.

Paiton and Addy with the pumpkins they picked. Paiton refused to hold or even touch hers because it was dirty.

This is how Paiton walked though the muddy fields; she was carried. Best part was that she was perfectly content being carried in such an awkward position.

So they had a bin full of corn kernels for kids to play in like a sand box. The kids loved it. I was especially surprised Paiton got in and played. She has sensory issues at hates touching things she isn't sure of.

Kids loved learning about the life cycle of a pumpkin. Even Paiton was into all the pictures.

Addy didn't get the concept that just the head is suppose to stick out.

Haystack maze

We have taken a picture at this same spot each year at the pumpkin patch since we moved Boise. Sad not to have Daddy in the photo. We miss you dad.

Normally we ride the milk barrel tractor but they only run it in the evenings so we pretended.

Found this picture on the camera when I uploaded photos. Neighbor kids must have been playing around with it.

Girls were saying goodnight to Dad on the computer last night and the neighbor kids stopped by. They were very intrigued to see Augie on the computer so he had an entire audience.

Here is our fall update so far

2010-09-26T20:30:00.000-07:00

We fall has been going really well so far. It has been crazy busy at our house but fun. The girls are at a really fun stage and we have had a lot of laughs. I have been getting into doing lots craft (will post pictures later) and just enjoying the girls.

I found the girls a shoe rack that matches Mom and Dads perfect. I love seeing it everyday! One of my many garage sale finds. I love garage sale season.

Addy started preschool and is loving it. I am doing a joy school set up with moms in the ward. We have SEVEN girls in all and so far its going great. I love having her in such a great set up and think it is perfect for right now. I like that it costs nothing and I get to take the opportunity to participate in the teaching.

This was Addy at the dentist a couple of weeks ago. She did great her first time at the dentist so went into the appt. thinking Paiton was the only one I had to worry about. Well as you can see by pictures she was in no mood for cooperation. She did excellent at x-rays but once we laid down to clean teeth she lost it. Was a wreck and refused to calm down or lie down for cleaning or exam from dentist. Paiton on the other hand did amazing; go figure. In Addy's defense we got done with appt. and once we were outside she started complaining of stomach ache and ended up running a fever, throwing up, and having tummy ache for a couple days. Better luck next time :)

Addy plays hair dresser a lot lately and surprisingly Paiton goes right along with it!

My mom came to town for weekend and we attended Time Out for Women in Boise with some of the girls from my ward. It was a great weekend. Big thanks to Augie for watching all the kids, even Uncle Jake.

Last week was my turn to teach the preschool and we did shapes. I was really nervous about it and keeping the attention of seven four yr. olds but it went great. I loved it and can't wait to do it again. Addy kept asking for the mom from the previous week to be the teacher but I am trying not to take it personal.

So as a last family outing before Augie took off to Logan we went to the ward party. As you can see Paiton got royal treatment when eating her gluten free chili.

Last family photo before Dad took off. We will miss Dad. Lets hope the kids and I all survive while he is gone.

Girls love their Daddy.

This was Paiton playing quietly on the couch before bed. She is such a goof.

Summer time fun continued...

2010-09-02T21:11:00.001-07:00

I decided I would just upload all the pictures from the last couple of weeks even though its a lot and they do not go together. Better to get it all done at once =]

So this last week girls and I spent a week in Pocatello with Uncle Jake. My parents headed to D.C for a vacation so girls and I kicked it with Jake. We had a great week just hanging out.

Today we visited dad at the cardiology center he is shadowing at right now. Paiton checked Dad's health while we were there.

Fun dollar store find that has been very entertaining!

Paiton learned how to chow down on corn. Thanks Nana for the good corn from your garden.

While in Pocatello Jake took such good care of Paiton. Every where we went he held her hand, fed her bites of food, and got her in and out of the car. It was so cute to see.

Great friend helped us find this at a garage sale. Took two days to clean out all the mold and leaves from inside the walls but once clean and assembled kids have been in heaven. Totally worth the 15 bucks.

While in Pocatello the girls played so well. It was so nice to see them actually get a long for once. There is hope yet. Cleaning Nana's beans from the garden.

Feeding horses always favorite time of the day.

Tending the garden with Grandpa

After long week Grandpa and Addy crashed

Paiton loved going for a ride.

We all went to the little water park while in Pocatello.

Deep in thought!!!

The other night Addy was trying to give Paiton a ride on her back to go to bed. It was hilarious to watch and girls had a good time.

Summer coming to an end...

2010-08-15T20:49:00.000-07:00

So we have had a ton of fun the last couple of weeks getting in lots of summer fun before it is over. Augie's summer break is over and he starts rotations in the morning. Here we go with another year:) As a family we did a few favorite summer things before we embarked on another year of school....

Did family movie night at the park. We played in water for a bit while we waited for movie to start. Have to arrive super early to get a good seat.

The movie at the park is so neat. The screen is huge and sound is excellent. So fun to watch movie outdoors with hundreds of other families. Is seriously crazy how many people come each Friday.

Had to go to Reno to take kids to Tahoe. Augie and I never realized how good we had it growing up going to Tahoe each summer. Nothing around Idaho even compares.

Paiton REFUSES!!! to touch the sand. Pretty funny. Hopefully she gets over it sometime.

Kid playing in the sand while sitting on a towel totally normal right?

This is how the trip to Reno started. We broke down outside of Winemucca, had to be towed, Augie parents picked us up, got car towed to Reno with help from best friends ever!!! Car then spent the week in the shop. Luckily we did get it fixed and made it home. Big thanks to Augie's parents for all the help. Hopefully next time we come to visit fixing car wont be on the agenda.

Chopped Addy's hair. I was sick of fighting each morning to get tangles combed as was Addison. She got her first professional hair cut and did amazing. Addy sat perfectly still and did not say more than two words to the hairstylist.

Paiton is showing a lot of motivation and interest in potty training. I on the other hand have no desire to attempt it. I let her play with her potty and she loves to pretend to go each time Addy does. That should be good for now.

Paiton is TWO!!

2010-07-25T20:18:00.001-07:00

So total random order of photos sorry sorry but you get the idea. Saturday was Miss Paity's birthday and we had a great day. We did the lake and beach, did cake and presents, and stayed up way too late. She had a great day.

Our new princess tent. Is a huge hit. Thanks Grandma and Grandpa Young.

New minivan is the new favorite toy. Her and Addy fight over it all day long. Hopefully that aspect will die down soon.

Our Mini Mouse Cake. I figured if the gluten free cake was going to taste bad I could at least make it look cute.

Our buddies

Camping

2010-07-25T19:43:00.000-07:00

So we did our first camping trip with our friends the Cudney's. They are big campers and have all the gear and set up so we figured we would be safe with them. The girls did ok. Addy loved being outside, sleeping in the tent, playing with Tucker, and going for walks. Paiton on the other hand would not get down in the dirt, touch anything, go near the dog, or go two steps from our side. So it may be awhile before we attempt it again to give Paiton a little time to get over her issues.

Augie learning how to fly fish. He looks like a natural.

Going for a boat ride.

Hanging out with our buddy Erin. So I ended up getting a flu bug while I was there and Erin stepped right in and became mom for the day. It was great; except for the getting sick part.

Paiton fishing

So there was a whole load of tadpoles in the pond area. It was crazy to see that many little frogs swimming around.

Addison loved fishing. She sat there for a good hour with Daddy.

Going in the boat

Hanging out in the hammock and playing a little lasso golf.

Girls LOVED playing in the camper, thought it was the coolest thing.

Our own little port-a-potty. Addy was a little resistant at first but she came around.

Addy and Tucker

Here we go.....

2010-07-15T19:59:00.001-07:00

So had my birthday this week. The big 27! It was a great day I got lots of chocolate so could not be happier.

Well miss Paiton has been having some tummy issues the last couple of months. She started having pretty regular diarrhea that just kept getting worse. She then started loosing weight and refusing to eat anything because she said her tummy always hurt. So finally took her to a doctor and tested first for bacterial infection. That was negative so then did exclusion diet taking out just about everything and she still had all the syptoms. So we then went to a Pediatric GI Specialist. We had more test done and a ton of blood drawn to test for everything it could possibly be.

After two weeks of waiting for blood test results and months of her being sick the GI doctor called and said her blood test indicated she had Celiac Disease. He said we could not know for sure until we did an endoscopy and looked at her small intestines to see what damage was there. So this Wednesday little Paity and I had a great day at the hospital. I was really stressed about starving her all the way until 10:30am but she did amazing even with the procedure being pushed back until 11:30.

We checked in and got our sexy gown on and bracelet. She was such a trooper
and in the best mood.

Luckily they had an amazing toy room down in OR waiting area so Paiton never even thought about being hungry or having to wait for two hours. She had more toys than she knew what to do with and they put her favorite show on; NEMO.

She just sat there for a good 30 min. watching Nemo.

They gave us her anesthesia mask to play with and get comfortable around so she wouldn't panic when they went to put her under. She loved playing with it. I think she got a little hungry cause she kept chewing it until it popped.

She went back with the nurses with no hesitation. Seriously went so much better than anticipated especially with having to do it by myself because Augie could not miss class.

So test results showed that she does for sure have Celiac Disease. Doctor was able to tell because all the tissue and little hairs in her small intestines that should help to absorb nutrients were all dead. So here we go! The whole family will be adopting a gluten free diet. I cant even fathom how hard this is going to be and what a constant issue it will be for Paiton during her life. I figure there are much worse things that can go wrong with your children and this is a major diet change but other than that she will live a normal healthy life so we will count our blessings.

More Summer Time Fun

2010-07-11T22:41:00.000-07:00

So we have had a fun couple of weeks. Just hanging out and doing typical summer stuff. Pictures would not load in order so sorry for them being all over the place.

We did the local water park for an afternoon. Addy was so brave and did all the rides all by herself. We had a great time until she fell and skinned her knee and then cried for the last hour and half. It was a great first couple of hours at least. My girls are still free at park so totally worth it.

Paiton multitasking. She can do all Dad's homework, studying, taking notes, and drink her mickey cup all at the same time.

Dad got some new clothes for his rotations coming up and Addy loved trying them on with him.

Paiton's morning routine. Kid is not even fully awake before she asks for Nana (banana), milk, and show.

Paiton loved playing in the pool.

Girls did great on the slides.

Addy started swimming lessons last week and did really well.

For the Fourth of July we went to our friends the Petersen's for a BBQ and fireworks.

Girls did great with fireworks. HUGE improvement from last year.

We played some pretty competitive volleyball for like 2 hours. Aug and I playing it up.

Paiton loving her shows

Thank you Petersen's for having us over two years in row now. See you next year.

Good Times

2010-07-01T19:48:00.000-07:00

So we have had a lot of things going on the last couple of weeks. Lots of visitors, holidays, girls camp, and summer fun.

First my best buddy from college made the trip to come visit me with her beautiful daughter Leah. We had the best time catching up and letting our kids play. We did swimming, shopping, and a lot of just hanging out.

Best attempt at a picture of the three girls together.

Beautiful Leah

Then Nana and Uncle Jake came to visit to watch the girls for me while I attended girls camp for my ward. Jake also attended a camp for kids that use communication devices here in the Boise area the same week so it all worked out well.

Jake is living up to being a true teenage boy. He sleeps all the time and can nap anywhere.

Addison made a habit of waking up early in the morning and climbing into bed with Nana.

Only pictures I have from Girls Camp is from the leader skit. We were viking women! I had a great time and survived as a true camper with no showers, toilets, or kitchen facility. I am now a Mia Maid adviser by the way no more cub scouts for me.

Augie had a great fathers day. I LOVE LOVE LOVE this picture. Every one smiling and even looking at the camera.

The girls were doing a pretend dinner and they even remembered to pray. Addison was helping Paiton say her own prayer. It was a great parenting moment.

Girls played outside today as I weeded. Took me awhile to find something that would keep them occupied and from fighting. Bubbles always seems to do the trick.

Summer Fun

2010-06-16T20:39:00.000-07:00

Cleaning off in the sink

Creative sleeping arrangements.

Paiton finally let me paint her nails. This was a first.

Loves reading with dad

Took the bike trailer out for first time to get some ice cream.

Addy started dance class.

Loves doing twirls!!

Her own creative dance moves.

Update

2010-05-30T19:33:00.000-07:00

So just an update as to what we have been up to in last couple of weeks. Augie had his birthday and turned the big 33!!! I keep telling him he is really starting to get old. Nice thing is that I always feel young cause he will always be older than me.

We had a whole week to hang out and enjoy Dad being around as he took a break from school. Augie finished spring semester and has now started summer. Once summer semester is over he will be half way done with school!! All next year will be a series of different medical rotations. It will be nice change to be out of routine of class, study, test, class, study, and once again test.

Here are pics from his birthday...

Addy came with me to buy his present this year and told him what he was getting about five different times before and even on the day of his birthday as he was opening the gift. He did good to still act surprised to make me feel better.

Good homemade cards this year. Girls loved it.

Paiton was all about ice cream cake.

Plenty of help blowing out candles.

Paiton finds the weirdest things to climb into. Of course she brought her toy in the stool with her and played like that for a good 20 min.

Traded out babysitting with friends and it was a lot of girls in the house. Everyone eating popcorn and watching a movie.

Some how Addy found Halloween costumes that I thought I put up so everyone had to take a turn wearing them.

Buddy is here!!! I actually flew back to Nebraska last weekend WITH NO KIDS! To help my best friend drive back to Boise with her two kids. It was a blast and so much fun catching up. I have never done a long drive like that but it really was not bad. So glad to have them here visiting.

One happy family

Graduation!!!!!

2010-05-09T21:44:00.000-07:00

The time has finally come. I will no longer get curious looks when I tell people my parents are both college students. As of this weekend they are both done! My parents have both worked so hard and I am so impressed and admire them both. My Dad received his Doctorate of Pharmacy and my mom her Bachelors in Health Science.

It was a little backwards having all the kids come together to sit in the stands and watch mom and dad graduate but so fun! It was a great weekend and experience. I am so proud of them and cants believe its done.

My Dad was in the first group to go and Mom was third to last person to go. It was a long morning!

We were quite the crew. With that many young kids and Jake, sitting through two and half hours of ceremony was interesting. Felt so bad for those sitting around us.

They look wonderful!

Fun family rides.

The girls adored their new cousin Jordyn. They fought over who got to hold her.

Easter outfits

Little Jordyn

All the moms on Mothers Day

Our Very Own Seagull

2010-04-26T21:26:00.000-07:00

If you are familiar with the Disney movie Nemo you know that all the seagulls in that movie always shout together, "mine, mine, mine, mine" every time they see food. Well our little Paiton does exactly that every time she wants a bite of what you are eating. It is pretty hilarious most of the time but a little annoying as well. Lets hope its just a phase!

Family Photos

2010-04-26T14:08:00.001-07:00

So while on Spring Break my sister took some pictures. So nice to have some updated family photos.

These two were not in the mood to take pictures!

Vacation

2010-04-21T22:33:00.000-07:00

So the girls and I headed to Nebraska to visit my best friend and her kids. We had an amazing time and enjoyed so much hanging out with friends and seeing Nebraska. I was pretty nervous about flying a lone with two kids but being able to see my friend was so worth it.

The flight there actually went great. No big disasters and overall girls did amazing. I can not say the same for the flight home! Will give more detail after photos...

Five minutes before landing in Nebraska Addy finally fell asleep. A little late for it to be a help. I then had to carry her off the plane.

DVD player not quite as big as hit as hoped but there were moments they watched it.

The seats across from us were open which was heaven for Paiton. She just climbed all over them for two hours.

We had to board one of our planes outside which scared the girls a little. I loved seeing Addy wheel her suitcase with all the other people. She loved being like everyone else.

Picnic lunches

Crazy bath time.

Everyone ready for a day at the zoo!

The aquarium was AMAZING! I wanted to stay there the whole time.

Sharks and Jelly Fish close up was so neat.

Could not be a more perfect group.

We will never forget our trip to buddies. Thank you, thank you, thank you.

FLIGHT HOME

So the flight was literally like watching a bad movie. I have not even posted about it for a couple of days because I am still trying to wrap my head around it. Here are the details. And I wish I could say I was exaggerating because that would mean I did not really have to endure it. I hope you get a good laugh.

How many things could go wrong in one flight...

1. To start the girls were up during the night from 4-6am, when we had to leave at 7am to catch flight so everyone was exhausted.

1. Boarding and getting in our seats went just fine. We got all situated for take off and just waited for the go ahead to turn on DVD player once in the air. Once we got the ok we hooked up head phones got blankets and were set. Five minutes into movie it died even though I had charged it. Girls start throwing fit and I began getting stressed figuring out what to do for 2 hours.

2. After a few melt downs and and switching around got girls snack and drink. As I opened up Addy new cars water bottle it exploded milk all over our seats, people in front of us, and ceiling. Take off must have pressurized it! Desperately wiped it all up using Paiton's Blanket as apologizing to people around. Addy now throwing fit because she had no milk.

3. Girls start fighting over seats and just waiting for seat belt sign to go off so one could move to seats across from us that were open. I had changed seats before boarding so I had open seats across from me for extra room. As soon as seat belt light goes off people from back swoop in and sit in seats so now I have no extra space. I was on a very tiny commuter plane so things were already tight with having a lap child.

4. After more melt downs and frantic attempts at distracting and controlling girls Paiton squats down and starts doing her business! I try staying calm and planning a course of action. I start hitting the call button so flight attendant can sit with Addy while I change Paiton in the bathroom. I figured I should act quick before people start smelling it or she sits in it. A couple minutes go by no attendant. Hit button again; no attendant. From my seat I can see her sitting up front with back to us. Hit button again; no attendant. Paiton is now done, climbing around, and smelling.

5. I leave girls and march up front.
I said, "Excuse me?"
Attendant: What
Me: Do your call buttons not work I have hit it FOUR TIMES!
Attendant: What do you need?
Me: My daughter needs a diaper change so I need you to sit with my toddler while I go to the restroom.
Attendant: We don't have a changing table.
Me: I know but I need to change her!
Attendant: Fine.

Yeah she was a brat and in no attempt went out of her way to help at all.

6. As I walk to bathroom with baby and diaper in hand got a few looks. Once in bathroom had to lie Paiton on my lap at angle with her head hanging off knees. She starts screaming because she is uncomfortable and terrified at the small place. As I am jerking around and taking diaper off I open wipes and realize I have TWO WIPES! Like changing poopy diaper on plane bathroom is not bead enough. Once done there was poo on my pants and on wall but we had survived.

7. As I was trying to get out still upset about whole fight and stupid attendant the door stuck . I kept hitting it and pushing with all might. Finally in last attempt I fling the door open and hit a nice young man right in the nose who was waiting for restroom. As he grabs his face with tears running down his face I just quickly walk always while apologizing and carrying a poopy diaper and child down isle.

8. I relieve the poor attendant who had to do her job and try to re group. I am now out of wipes, holding a poopy diaper with no where to put it, exhusted, embarrassed, and just trying to survive. As attendant walks past I ask how much more time we have and she says AN HOUR AND 15 MINUTES! I had not even made it half way through the flight. I quitley turned to the side and began cry. The man from bathroom then taps me on my shoulder and hands me Paiton shoe that had fallen off in bathroom. I just took shoe and did not make eye contact.

9. After a lot of sugar, suckers, singing ever song with actions, melt downs, and plenty of fights we some how land and make it off the plane. I now have 40 minutes to get across airport with two young children who are so tired they are delirious, two blankets, two backpacks, a worthless DVD player and case, and three jackets to catch next flight.

10. Salt Lake Airport is way to big and the whole way Addy asked to be carried while Paiton asked to get down. We stopped constantly to re -adjust kids, bags, and to motivate Addy to please keep walking.

11. After a bathroom stop and walking down the entire C wing to get to gate C15 I find the sign does not say my flight. I drop everything and ask first desk attendant to see what is going on. They inform me my gate has changed to C3! I once again cry and then grab everything including both children because no one would walk and head back to C3. I glance and clock and see it is 10:55 and flight departs at 11:15. As I walk as fast as possible I dropped bags, kids, and sippy cups many times.

12. We some how make it to gate after a couple episodes of kids lying in the middle of floor refusing to walk any further as strangers stare. I drop everything call Augie and cry. I tried to figure out a logical way to get home without boarding another plane. I really did not think I could survive.

We did board the plane and the flight actually went ok. Nothing like first flight and really after first flight I was prepared for anything and bothered by nothing. I was sure kids would start throwing up anytime because of all the sugar I gave them but I did catch one break. Needles to say I will not fly alone with the girls anytime in the next 10 years. We all came home and slept for about 4 hours!

Hope you enjoyed a good laugh. I can at least look back and laugh now although still on the verge of tears.

Easter

2010-04-05T23:00:00.000-07:00

Paiton finally has enough hair for a very very very small pony. She was very proud of her pony and kept pointing it out to anyone who would listen

We had a great weekend with lots of fun. We died eggs, found baskets, and ate a lot of candy!

Playing it cool in her new shades.

Water bottle was first thing she grabbed.

Addy told everyone she was getting a Cars Easter basket. So of course we obliged. She has asked for two months for a cars water bottle for Easter. At first Dad said no way cause was too much but then caved the night before Easter and went out and bought it. She has not let it out of her sight since she got it.

Spring Break

2010-04-01T15:55:00.001-07:00

So Augie spring break was last week and we definitely needed a break. It has been a long semester and everyone is getting burnt out. We decided to head to Utah to see family and friends and relax.

We did spring cleaning and got the carpets cleaned. The girls loved the open space.

Did plenty of sleeping.

Had a potty accident in the car on the way up so made a point to pull over and do the pushes on the way home. This was our first time doing bathroom stop in the pushes and it was successful!

Attempted pictures with cousins but no one was in the mood.

Stayed with Great Grandma Iverson

Addy favorite thing each morning was helping grandma take her medicine.

Did shopping at the outlets. Addy insisted on going to a store with clothes her side and had to take a turn trying things on in the dressing room. She was so grown up and even picked her own clothes off the shelf to try on.

Did the rec center in Kamas Utah. Addy and I did this slide over and over.

Stayed with my sister in her new home! Kids had a good time.

Played the Wii

Paiton was a good helper with the gardening for Great Grandma.

Overall it was a great break. By the end everyone was exhausted and ready for home.

Finally some hair!

2010-03-18T21:02:00.000-07:00

This weeks events

2010-03-14T12:17:00.000-07:00

Just some updated pictures of our lives at home. Nothing too exciting.

Augie gets the privilege of visiting the "Salon of Addison" on a daily basis.
Addy went to the dentist this week and did amazing. She let them do everything they needed and was able to watch Nemo on the ceiling the whole time.

Dad eating Lunch with the girls.

We finally got the television up high. It is no longer covered in small fingerprints and the girls are forced to watch shows more than 2 inches from the T.V.

Crazy Little Girls

2010-03-01T21:17:00.000-08:00

This is our new toy! A family in the ward no longer had use for it and we were more than happy to take it off of their hands. The girls love that BOTH of them can now sit in the stroller and no one has to wait their turn.

Paiton is always happy in the high chair. The kid loves her food. I don't think I mentioned it but at her 18month appt. she weighed in at 29.8lbs, she was in the 98% for her age group. Doctor suggested I could take her off whole milk at this point. Ha ha poor girl. We love her and love her chunk even more.

This is the new face that Paiton makes all the time. Especially when she is upset or being defiant.

Having a painting party.

Could not be happier that they have matching pj's. For $3 on a clearance rack it was worth it.

What we have been up to....

2010-02-22T19:49:00.000-08:00

I know I have been bad about posting lately but there really has not been too much going on. I had a huge banquet I was doing for scouts last week that kept us pretty busy. I am so relieved that is over and now it is on to Pinewood Derby for next month.

The girls have been good. Of course sick with head colds as always. Paiton is having issues with her tubes. She had an ear infection but the tubes weren't draining. Then once they did start draining her ear started bleeding as well. Then a week after antibiotics the other ear started draining with an ear infection. Only Paiton could develop and ear infection while currently on antibiotics. We are scheduled to see the ENT on March 1st so just have to make it until then.

Other than that just hanging out with the psycho little girls.

The girls joining in with Dad as he does his reading for school.

Paiton loves to do whatever Addy is doing.

Look at her special talents. Took her awhile to balance just right.

She loves wearing Addy's helmet and the best part is that it fits her better than it does Addy.

This was Addy's outfit she picked to go outside in the other day.

Everyone eats their cucumbers with over sized tongs right!

After we put Addy to bed the other night we went back in the room to check on her and found that she had taken such care to put her dog to bed as well. What a good mom she is.

Ever Growing Iverson Family

2010-02-01T23:35:00.000-08:00

Photo Time!!!

2010-01-30T12:53:00.001-08:00

Here are the girls pictures for this year that I had taken. Had to scan them in this year so sorry the quality is not too great.

Just hanging out

2010-01-26T20:51:00.000-08:00

We have just been adjusting to life with Augie gone all the time and getting pack into a routine. The girls are starting to play better in BRIEF moments which has been nice. Maybe in another year they will enjoy each others company.

Just some recent photos of our life at home.

Girls matching polka dot dresses. Paiton will stand still for a photo if Addy does.

Paiton finally agreed to play dress up.

Addy getting her nails done.

Addy favorite thing to eat for lunch.

The girls love watching movies on the portable DVD player.

Christmas

2010-01-11T20:20:00.000-08:00

Well Augie went back to school this week and break is officially over. I figured I better get back to things as well so why not start with a post. My computer has been having issues with loading picture so sorry it took me so long.

Here are some pictures from our wonderful break.( A lot of pictures because who knows when it will work again.

The vacation started with me organizing all my cub scouts to sing at a nursing home. I have a big group of boys so a little hectic. This is our family picture with the Santa we had at the nursing home.

The family then started piling in. We all slept at my home on Tuesday night and then early Wednesday morning headed to the Oregon coast. All of my siblings and my parents all pitched in and rented a beach house for Christmas this year. It was an AMAZING beach house and a wonderful Christmas with all of us together. I am so glad we did it.

The beach house had five bedrooms with at total of 11 beds most being queen beds and five bathrooms. Three family rooms all with their own television. It was a perfect setting for such a large group.

The girls made this wreath to add to our Christmas decorations.

Christmas morning was nuts. There were so many little kids and so many presents no one knew what gift was which child's. They all just played with everything and had a blast.

This was our Santa corner. You would never know I had two girls seeing how all Addy wanted was Cars slippers and Thomas the Train. I am really hopping its a phase that will pass soon.

My parents currently have 6 grand kids all 3 and under. It will be 7 by this summer.

Yeah buddy!

I was dreading the driving but ours girls actually did really well. They were so sleep deprived from all the playing and staying up late they slept a ton in the car.

Our best buddy, who know lives in Nebraska, was visiting as well so we got to see her a for a little bit.

Then once we returned from Oregon Augie's parents came to visit for a week. We did Christmas once again with them. Paiton is feeding her new baby doll.

Addy taking Grandma's blood pressure with her new doctor kit.

Grandma got to celebrate her birthday while visiting. Addy loved doing birthday all over again.

The new table for girls that we did not take to Oregon. Christmas just kept coming for the girls. Addy started to ask me to just keep getting presents from the garage. She is under the impression it is never ending; she just gets a new gift when she is tired of the old one.

Once Augie's parents left we had one more week just us four before school started. Paiton does not quite get the whole painting craft yet. This is why she only paints with water.

Augie making good use of our new living room furniture.

Paiton has learned to fold her arms and say "amen." It is so cute.