The Marshalls

2011-11-08T18:19:00.000-06:00

The Marshall's classic atempt to take family pictures, hehehe

Nice butt Keelie. Kirsten is way too excited!

Maya practicing her karate

Don't know what uncle bill is doing. Mckay, you have a great gut.

Maya if you don't turn right now I am going to...

Hey we did it, kind of

Captin John, you look wonderful!

Our trip to Idaho was wonderful! Mckay only cried through 90% of the drive, Thank goodness he was with us because I don't know what we would have done to stay busy for 44 hours in the car otherwise. (He's lucky we didn't leave him in Wyo) Speaking of Wyoming, I can decide if I am proud or disgusted, but 4 of the 5 members of our family peed on the side of the road in that wonderful state! Well except for Maya, she decided to poop instead!!!!!! Jordon drew that short stick, and I, being the good wife, handed him some wet wipes and got our my camera! Jordon is such a great dad.

I would also like to thank my Favorite Aunt Diane who taught my girls "I am a mean old witch with a hat" I have been singing that song with actions in a few different stores because I can' t get it out of my head. Once again Diane, thanks!

45 degree Wyoming wind is cold on the cheeks.

Maya being her usual clean self

Mckay looooves black beans. One bit up advice I have to share is the importance of cleaning it off while its wet! If not is turns to concrete.

I love naked bath pictures

We love going to the pumpkin patches here in IL, This one was great. They had baby kitties running all over the place. Addie is turning into our animal lover!!! ( I am so excited) Jordon told me I can't have a cat but I want to see him tell that to Addie when she really starts to beg. I won't encourage it of course. bahahahha For now she's content with knowing she can "get one when she moves out." She doesn't understand what that means, I think.

Our wonderful neighbor Natalie. Her dad is the Pastor at a Church down the road, and they have a wonderful Halloween carnival that we have gone to for the last two years.

Mckay wanting to get a good look at the camera. (sorry, random order)

The girls with Rae Jean, their surrogate GRANDMA.

Mckay's new found talent. We call it the tripod

He is not crawling like this, but he just puts his head down and waits for people to look between his legs. Addie and Maya love playing this game with him.

Addie is just not as cute in that pose

Addie's costume parade at school.

Jordon looked at me like I was smoking something when I asked him to put Mckay in his horse costume, but being the good husband he is he did it anyway. I can honestly say Mckay was in and out of his costume in 3 minutes.

The girls waiting for the trick or treating to begin.

I just love this picture.

I had the girls in the bath and stripped Mckay naked in his room thinking he would head straight to the tub, but I was wrong. He needed to make sure he was hydrated before getting in the water. He also felt the need to mark his territory.

Every one always wants to know Maya's latest, so here it is:

Addie: Gross, mom and dad, stop kissing.
Mom: would you rather us fight?
Addie: No! that would not be good.
Maya: I want to see you two battle. I want to see who would win. Battle, mom and dad, battle.

FiRsT DaY oF ScHOol

2011-09-23T13:36:00.000-05:00

Addie's first day of School. We had to talk her into letting Jordon walk her to school. She wanted to do it all on her own. The problem was she didn't know where her class was.

Lady's bring on the birthday cake cuz I am oNE!!

Addie's broken arm. Dad and Maya the first to sign it.

We buzzed Mckay's hair.

We spent labor day with some friends. There was fishing and Canoe riding. If you have ever been around 4 or 5 kids all fishing at the same time I would not recommend it. I am sad to say we didn't catch one fish, but I am happy to say we didn't catch a single person.

Mckay loves straws

We are all doing wonderful. Addie gets her cast off in 7 days. The novelty is wearing off and she is ready for it to come off. Maya is loving the time home with out Addie. Maya can get a word in now. Mckay has been a little more easy going. Lets just all pray he stays that way. Jordon is work hard. He is on peds sedation right now so we get to see him a little more which has been a blessing because I have thrown my back. I am slowly getting better after Narcotics, muscle relaxers, ibuprofen, 5 different injections into my back and three trips to the Chiropractor. Thank goodness for my neighbor Rea Jean. She has gone with me to Mckay doctor appts, She didn't want me driving when she found out all the meds I was taking. (probably smart) She took me to my Chiropractor appt and made us dinner. She is a God sent. I am glad to say today I can pick Mckay up with only a little pain. To all of you who have back pain I feel for you now, it SUCKS!!!

More of Idaho

2011-09-23T12:58:00.000-05:00

Gradma Cindy with Mckay

Maya sat in the front row of the band concert for the entie hour. The other kids were off running and playing. I though we were going to die watch her try not to fall asleep.

Mckay and Mckay

My men!

Mckay hates to touch the grass

Riding horses at Kirstens moms house. I was in heaven

Mckay loving candy

Maya and Prince Charming look amazing in this picture.

2011-09-23T12:03:00.002-05:00

Some of the perks of residency. Free box seats with dinner for the Cubs game

We Stopped in Casper Wyo on our drive to Pocatello to spend some time with the Johnson Family Mckay was loving life being out of the car.

Addie would were this dress every time we went to the Johnson house when we lived in Casper. I don't think we were even there for 10min before Maya came down modeling. Yes and her bum sticks our of the bottom just like Addie's did.

Crappy picture but this is Kelli and her little man Logan.

After our stop in Casper the kids and I drove to Kolay's temporary home in Wyoming. Her, Lexie, and Zoe the dog drove the rest of the drive with us. I was so grateful 18+ hours in the car with just me and kids was a lot of work. It was nice to have Kolay for my sanity even if she fed her dog a hot dog right before we got in the car to leave and that same hot dog ended up on the floor of my suburban. HEHEHE.

Maya is going to take a few years off of my life. I was running around getting ready for a bride to come over when Maya came up stairs crying. I was in a hurry so I sat down with her to clam her down quickly so she would not be crying when the bride arrived. She kept saying her neck hurt. I didn't think much of it until she lifted her chin. I about died. I asked Maya what happened but she would not tell me because she thought she was in trouble. It took some coaxing and promising that I would not get mad no matter what it was. The older girls had been jumping off the desk in the toy room holding onto the blinds string. So Maya decided to try it but wanted to use both hands so she wrapped the string about her neck and Jumped!!!!!!! I think she has killed at least three of her Guardian Angels. I called Jordon and the way to the Cubs game. We were meeting there after his shift. He didn't realize how bad her neck was until he saw her. He was very quite the rest of the night. We drove home in our separate cars and by the time I got home Jordon had already cut the blind cords. We are just glad the little crap head is OK.

Addie is a wonderful big sister.

Mckay and Lexie.

My request when we went home for our vacation was to go to the Tetons. I got my wish. We took the kids down to the water (I don't think it was even 75degrees outside but five seconds after we do to the water all the kids were in their undies swimming. Holy Crap that water is cold. The kids lips were all blue.

Mckay and Jordon on our walk back after the kids swim

Matt and Lexie with her usual crappy attitude. (she is such a happy baby)

Looking for Wild life at Jackson lake lodge.

Addie's mosquito bite.

Our little friend I was sitting on the floor pressed up against the window taking pictures of this guy. He would hiss at me then go back to eating. Bruce was about to have a heart attack. I finally had to open the door and yell to get him to run off so I could bring the food it.

We Shaved Mckays head so this does not happen anymore!

Grandma and Grandpa come visit

2011-09-23T11:21:00.000-05:00

One of the Dr's. Jordon works with puts on a (sprint) triathlon every year so Jordon decided he didn't have enough going on so he signed up. The kids and I were there to watch him transition from bike to run. I sat out with the three kids in the heat waiting to see him finish and the girls were off playing when he came in! I was yelling at them to come and telling Jordon to slow down but like always no one would listen to mom. What can you do. The rest of the day was wonderful! They had a lake at there cabin Jordon the kids and I played in the water all afternoon. Maya was not interested in getting in the lake but they had a little pool on the dock she played in. If you held still the fish in the lake would take a small taste. crazy!! We just made sure no one said anything to Addie. I don't think she ever stopped moving long enough! They also had a zip line Jordon and I played on. We then had a fish fry and once again deep fat fried makes everything taste better! I had seconds on fish.

Mckay on the ride home. He was sucking on his toe but would leave it in for the picture. They don't come any cuter.

Grandma and Grandpa showed up the next day! We spent the 4th in Peoria. We had some friends over and had pizza on the grill. Its our new fav thing. We were off to St Louis again
Addie took our camera at the zoo. I think she did an amazing job

We wore the thee girls out!

These pictures are all at the City Museum in St Louis. It is amazing but I am glad we had four adults to keep track of the kids. It is a massive building with more places for kids to get lost then I could ever count.

the pictures are out of order these is at the St louis Zoo

Mom looks like she is loving lunch in the park. It may be because it was 110` outside

This boat is in peoria the girls call it the Princess and the Frog boat.

We took the grandparents and the kids to see Jordon on his flight shift. The girls were so excited they got to were the helmets and talk on the radios.

"Space Balls"

Life

2011-06-27T17:24:00.001-05:00

SpLAsh DowN

Maya and her water weggie

Addie rocking her swim lessons

Maya need I say more

Yes that is underwear on Maya's head

More underwear while dancing

I am getting ready to crawl

new clothes

Maya asleep after her dads race. We were great parents and hauled Maya to the Chicago area two days after her surgery so we could support Dad in his race. He ran in the Warrior Dash, and did very well. There were more then twenty thousand people who ran and last time I look he finished in the top 200. The race is 3+ miles long with ten different obstacles. Some of which are jumping over two fire pits, and crawling through a mud pit. We both want to run next year. Who else wants to come!!!!

the girls were having so much fun playing in their underwear. (sorry out of order)

Mud pit in the background

Addie's 6th Birthday!

2011-06-27T17:07:00.000-05:00

Addie had a wonderful birthday surrounded by great people.

Balloon hoarders

Out came Maya't Tonsils

2011-06-27T15:48:00.004-05:00

This is Maya right before she whent into Surgery. They give them medication that makes them a little "HIGH" so they don't get scared. Listen close to what Maya is saying in the video.

I have decided that I cook my kids the same way I put everything else together. I always have a few part left over. Addie and Maya have both had their tonsils out, and Mckay is toung tied so when he sticks his toung out he looks like a snake. They are all health, beautiful kids I just didn't quite finish the job!! I am sure Jordon would have put them together with no missing parts . HEHE but then we would never get to see what our kids are like stoned. Maya's surgery went great she was great except for when the nurse asked Maya to put on the outfit for surgery. She looked right at the man and said I Don't want to wear it right now. Jordon and I were both a little caught off guard. The nurse laughed and told us he had never been rejected before. He asked her again and same response. I told the man we would get it on her. After he left I told Maya she needed to get dressed. She still put up a fight until I asked why she would not wear it. "Mom, its YELLOW!" she look at us like do you really think I am going to wear something that's yellow. She was in tears but we finally got her in the cursed yellow clothes. The pink slippers they brought in helped a little. She did amazing the day of her surgery she kept telling us that the doctor did a great job and that she loved getting her tonsils out. We had a few people stop by to see Maya and were surprised to find her up and about. She ate an entire bowl of Mac and Cheese the day of her surgery! That's my girl. She has worked very had to get to the size she is and she was not going to let a little surgery set her back. We has a rough few days but I am glad to say she is better then ever! No more falling asleep eating dinner.

Last week was one of those weeks. On top of Maya's surgery Addie had her six year check up and had to get 5 shots. She was a trooper, but was pretty sore for the next few days. She had to tell everyone about it. Mckay also decided to try to cut some more teeth. I went through thee bottles of Children Tylenol in ONE WEEK! and even more Diet Coke. These are the weeks that I really miss having family around. Jordon worked a ton.

St Louis and a little more

2011-05-28T14:21:00.000-05:00

Jordon had a weeks vacation this may so we headed to St Louis for a few days. WE LOVED IT. We stayed in the most white trash motel, but it had a pool and continental breakfast so we were happy.

scene: Mom and Dad arms full with luggage and kids walking down the hall to find our room, As soon as Maya sees the pool she stops drops her bag and starts to take her clothes off.

Me: Maya what are you doing?

Maya: Going swimming mom (with a look on her face like what do you think I am doing)

The pictures will not do our trip justice. We took the kids to a Children's Museum. It was AMAZING. We were dragging the Girls from one thing to the next so they would be able to see everything. (I will explain more in the pictures below.) After the Museum we headed back to the motel for a little bit then it was off to dinner. Amazing Tie food in this little hole in the wall restaurant. Back to the motel for some swimming. I sent Jordon and the girls down ahead of me so I could feed Mckay. Mckay and I headed down to the pool but didn't end up getting in. The heater to the pool was not working and the water would have rivaled Jackson lake. Jordon had been given the privilege of jumping in the nice cold water to save Addie who decided she forgot how to swim about the middle of the pool. As soon as Jordon was in the water reaching to grab her she decided she could swim again. TEE HEHEHE. I am glad it was him and not me, holy crap that water was cold. It was back to the room for a hot bath our kids had turned a nice shade of blue from the cold water. and bed time. The next day we went to the butterfly house. It was pretty cool having thousands of butterflies flying around you. Maya was scared of them which made it even funnier. Watching her flinch every time one came by her. We were just finishing up in the Butterfly house when Maya decided to take off! Luckily I caught a glimpse of her heading out the door. My thought was she didn't see Jordon and Addie and took off outside looking for us. I take off after her not wanting her to be scared. Well I was wrong she was not happy when I caught up to her on her was to the playground. (I finally had to spank Maya's little rear on the trip because she would just take off out of the motel room, at the zoo, you name it. Jordon and I have talked about getting a shock collar for her!) After the Butterfly house we let the kids play for a little while on at the playground then it was off to the Zoo. Our kids were so tired about half was through the zoo we gave up, and headed back to the motel. Both kids were asleep about two seconds into the car ride. We had dinner in another hole in the wall restaurant, this time it was Mexican. It was amazing for those of you who know how I love Senior Iguana's salsa this place rivaled it! Back to the motel for some more swimming Mckay and I didn't even put our suits on this time and would you know the heat was working. The pool was full of kids who have not spent much time in the water. They were amazed that Addie could swim. It was fun to see these teens and tween play in the pool like they were five. Then if was off to bed. We got up the next morning and headed home.

We got home by early afternoon and went straight to work putting in new flower beds. We spent the rest of our vacation working on our place. It was so much fun! After all the time I spent working in my parents yard ten years later I finally ready to do yard work again. It was fun to have the girls help me pick out the flowers. We were quite the site at the flower shop. Three kids on the cart with flower all around them. Addie and Maya had a great time making bouquets out of the flower on the ground well Addie's was a bouquet and Mayas was more like flower soup.

Maya your swimsuit is on wrong.

No it not mom

Bring that had a little closer and I will bite it! (Mckay first two teeth came in)

Jord helping Addie and the Children's Museum

I think it is safe to say that Addie at least doubles that number

Mckay: "Just making sure I am the last mom!"

Maya fishing

After catching her fish she gets to take it up stream and release it. We were PC with the whole catch and release.

Dr Addie

Maya was a little freaked out my this

Jack's bean stock. This was a good 3 1/2 stories high

they had these tubes you could put scarfs in and they would blow around and shoot out. Mckay became the girls target!

Here is a shout out to Bapa

Butterfly house

We had a toad make a home for a few days on the side of our house. I think the toad figured out quickly this was not going to be a good place for him.

All of you in Idaho freezing you should come visit it was 90 this day

My 30th Birthday was great. Jordon gave me a morning off! I went a shopped for some much needed clothes, and went out to lunch by myself! It was amazing. We had some friends take the kids so Jordon and I could go out to dinner.

Train ride at the zoo. Daddy's little man

we went to a Doctors house Jordon works with. The girls had an amazing time chasing the lamas, except Addie kept forgetting what they were called.
Addie: Mom do you think we can go back to that house and chase the Camels it was so much fun!

Addie's blanket has seen better days.

Sorry the pictures are so out of order I don't know what happend.

Easter and a few extra

2011-04-24T15:46:00.001-05:00

Happy Easter from Mckay, Addie and Maya

The stories for the day. The kids sang today in Sacrament meeting and one of my girls had her finger up her nose for most of the time and the other one was smiling and singing along. Can you guess who had the finger in the nose? Well you are all wrong it was ADDIE.

I had the lesson in Sharing time today and during Sacrament meeting Maya was looking at the pictures I had of the Savior on the Cross. She asked me why the savior had nails in his hand and the other men only had ropes. (What a great thing to show the kids during my lesson)

Me during the lesson: one of my kids pointed out something about this picture during sacrament
Maya: mom it was me I know something
Me: Maya what is different about the three men in this picture
Maya: Jesus has on white underwear and the other men have black.
Me: hehehe

This morning was sweet Maya got Tangled from the Easter bunny and Addie got a bell for her bike. Addie told Maya "they got Tangled" I corrected Addie and told them Addie got the bell and Maya got the movie, but Maya quickly corrected me "no mom tangled is for both of us." I am so grateful for the friendship that my girls have.

Addie working the high heels and swimming suite

Maya just being Maya

Getting ready for the Easter egg hunt!!

2011-04-20T19:38:00.001-05:00

Mckays pooping face

I had two different shoots with my kids and didn't get one really good picture!!!

We missed the Storm of the century when we were in Idaho but there was still plenty to play with when we got home

Addie spend forever putting every bow we had is Maya's hair

2011-04-20T19:27:00.000-05:00

It has been way to long since my last post. I don't even have Christmas on here. OOPS! I am not going to try to cover the last four months in detail so here is the READERS DIGEST version. We spent Christmas here in Peoria and had a great Holiday. I love the magic Christmas brings when your kids still believe. Jordon and I could not sleep and made sure we set an alarm so we would not miss the kids faces. Addie woke up about ten min after we did and came running down the hall. We stopped her short and told her to go and get Maya up. ( this is there conversation)
Addie: Maya wake up
Maya: leave me alone
A: Its Christmas!!!
M: no it's not leave me alone.
A: Please get up mom wants our pictures together
M: No
A: Please you can go right back to bed.
We finally got them both out for there pictures together. Addie loved opening all of the presents, Maya on the other had got what she had wanted from Santa and didn't care about the rest. She kept asking when she could go down stairs and play.

The day after Christmas was a different story. We received the news that our dear friend Kelli and her daughter Elise were in a horrible ski accident. 5 year old Elise was killed and Kelli was in critical condition. I kept waiting for someone to call and tell me that it had been a mistake. I was able to go and spend a week with her at Craig Hospital in Denver Co. This hospital was amazing. Chauncy (Kelli's husband) their two kids and Kelli's mom were able to stay right on campus.  I am so grateful I was able to go spend time with her and her family.  Still to this day I am amazed at there strength and attitude about this ordeal.
Getting to Craig hospital was a challenge in its self.  The three kids and I headed out of Peoria flew to Denver then to Idaho falls. I dropped the two girls off with family and Mckay and I headed  to Denver where we would spend the next week. I then headed back to Pocatello where I spent the next week in Pocatello.  Then is was back to Peoria.
Kelli and her family are back in Casper WY and are going to be just fine.

Life seemed to be getting back to normal when we received the news the my cousins husband had been shot and killed. Leaving behind a wife and five little kids. The youngest just a few months old. I felt like the world was spinning out of control. ( and I am just on the outside looking in on others trials) Jordon and I have both taken a step back and look at what is really important in life, and that so many of the things we had been worrying about are really not that big of a deal. I hug my kids a little tighter now and appreciate Jordon that much more.

On a lighter note we are doing great. Jordon is still loving work and I am busy being a mom. Addie and Maya will start swimming lessons next month. Mckay is still a handful. He is lucky he is so cute or I am sure I would have sold or eaten him by now. Jordon says he is just making sure he is the last!

Funny kid stuff
we are driving down the road and Addie is learning to read
Addie: Mom what does H O O T E R S spell
Mom: owls

Bapa John: Maya did you just go poop
Maya: yes
BP J: You didn't wipe Maya we always wipe
M: sometimes we don't

Maya: Mom I like to eat my snot.
Mom:?? what do you say to that.

I get a call from my neighbor
Neighbor: do you know what is going on behind your shed?
Me: no
N: The kids are peeing and playing in it HEHEHEHEHEHEHEHE
M: what an I suppose to say to that.

Me: Addie and Maya what was going on behind the shed
Addie: What did you see?
Me: what where you doing
Maya: Peeing
Me: You were playing in your pee?
Addie: no mom
Me: then were did all the mud come from
Addie: we were spitting.
Me: ?

Me: Jordon will you please go see what is going on.
Jordon and kids talking
Jordon: are you kidding me???!!!
Jordon: both the kids peed on the floor
Me: What, Addie what happened?
Addie: Well Maya farted and I started laughing
the rest you can guess Maya saw Addie laughing and peeing so she thought it was a fun idea so see peed. Jordon was no help with the scolding. He was standing behind the girls laughing. I was almost able to make it out of there room without laughing.

We got Maya a bike and I still have not decided if it was a good idea. She likes to ride fast but does not bother to look where she is going. She spends most of her time looking behind her at her shadow.

I have had a very busy few weeks. Maya's Sunday school teacher agreed to take six baby chicks so I could use them for Easter Photo sessions. Wonderful now to find a bunny. I found a lady on line who was selling baby bunnies I asked her is she would be willing to rent me a Rabbit (and after I convinced her that I was not crazy) she agreed.  The kids and I loved it we had a pet rabbit and baby chicks for 4 days. Jordon is hoping he can get me back to Idaho with Bruce as our only pet. Good luck!!

2010-12-07T13:37:00.011-06:00

The ER residents got to play with the "Jaws of Life" I think they were suppose to learn something from it but it just seemed like they got to use very cool tools and rip cars apart. A very important skill to work in the ER.

Jordon on his flight rotation. He would fly over the house and the girls and I would run out side to see him fly over.

The kids in their new Christmas PJ's

Mckay was loving life at this moment

" really, you already neutered me"

Happy Birthday to Maya

Want a little snot with your frosting?

Addie was cuddling with Bruce and wanted me to take a picture, he got up as soon as I came over with the camera Addie told him to sit and he did just that, right on her face!

Mckay hanging out in Chicago

The girls are rowing but there oars are not hitting the water!!!!

The had never see a tape player before. I told Jordon we are getting old when tape players are in the Museums.

Sue, the dinosaur!

Maya getting her grove on at the Field Museum in Chicago

After a long day of shopping, riding ever power wheel at toys R us, pizza, and swimming. time to watch a Christmas movie and cuddle with dad. What more could a girl want.

What a doll

Maya is Three "Free" Her birthday was on a Sunday and told everyone at church that she was 5.

I promise I only used a little gas. Jordon loves that we have to burn our yard waste.

Does anyone else see Jordan Ray Harding in this picture?

Jordon and the Girls spent all day outside setting up the lights Maya gave up as soon as she found out about the hot coco waiting inside for them. Addie was out there the entire time helping, she was frozen solid but wanted to finish with her dad. I sat inside with Mckay "almost" feeling guilty for being so nice and toasty warm but someone had to watch Mckay. I would here Addie "Dad should you be doing that? If you fall will it hurt?"

Mckay and Maya both napping on me, Addie was the photographer.

2010-09-28T18:28:00.001-05:00

Prince Charming

2010-09-28T18:27:00.001-05:00

SO SWEET and TINY

Addie and Maya wanted Curly hair
the girls in there new Halloween costumes

2010-09-28T18:24:00.001-05:00

This is how Maya came out of the room dressed when she was suppose to be taking a nap
Party in the front yard

2010-09-28T18:21:00.001-05:00

Eating dinner on our new deck furniture
Addie would not let the poor dog go I didn't get pictures but in the next few minutes Bruce was tied on a very short leash to the tramp
Extreme makeover Grandma edition.

Addie sharing her basket with Mckay

2010-09-28T18:17:00.001-05:00

We can't figure out why Addie does not want Maya to sleep with her anymore
Addie is drinking water our of Maya's shoe. Good mom? yes I did not stop them instead I took pictures

2010-09-28T18:14:00.001-05:00

Maya and Fevers don't mix
Our trip to Ohio to see Med school friends

Maya what can I say

2009-08-06T12:16:00.000-05:00

2009-08-06T11:23:00.007-05:00

We are all settled in Pocatello now. I sent Jordon to Peoria on the 25th of July. He is having a great rotation and really like the city and Hospital. It sucks being away for this long but I have stayed busy. My Family went camping for a week in the Tetons and had a blast. Addie went on her first 5 mile hike and did great! Having her cousins distract her helped a lot, and it made matters worse Addie would forget to pay attention and would trip and fall. did I mention that she fell a LOT! poor kid. Maya had a great time in the Carrier. When we got to the top of the hike Addie had to pee so Kolay took her off the side of the trail. Addie informed Kolay that nobody could see her privets but they could see her bellybutton and toung because that was funny! I love the things kids say. The next day we headed off to Yellowstone and drove for 4 hours and saw one hot pot and went to an old lodge. I would not recommend Yellowstone to anyone this year the construction was BAD! Our third day there was fun my mom and dad rode there bike the twenty or so mile to String Lake and met us there for the day of swimming in a mountain lake, holy crap that water is cold. I don't think kids have thermostats until they are older. Addie played in the water so long her lips were blue. I asked her if she wanted to get out and she told me that she was not cold. Maya spent the day trying to drink the water. I would have to say she was pretty successful with her attempt. Jen and I had my dad drop us off four miles from camp so we could run back. yep were are nuts! The first night up camping was interesting. Addie and I were sharing the air mattress and Maya was in her pack and play. Maya woke up cold about 3am and was ready to play. If there would have been a bear walking by the tent between three and sunrise I may have just given Maya to them! She would not go back to sleep she woke Addie up so I had to deal with two kids awake. I actually layed in bed and watched the sun rise! The rest of the nights were a lot better. The last night Maya woke up cold again Oh no here we go but she just cuddled up with me and went back to sleep. I love those cuddle moments with my girls!
McKay Jordon's brother came home this last week! It has been great to see him. Maya warmed up quickly to him and Addie was very excited to see her uncle bill and was going to give him a kiss on the cheek unless he had hair on his face and then she was just going to give him a hug! Uncle Bill only got a hug

This week I have been trying to get things organized and ready for me to head to Casper for a wedding. I am so grateful to be back in Pocatello and surrounded by family and friends while Jordon is gone. I also really enjoy the built in baby sitters!

Addie was stung by two Wasps last night that will make it 8 times sense the start of last summer. I think the girl has a scent that the wasps love or hate! Poor child

This was Addies lip right after the sting, It also got her on the back

2009-08-06T11:11:00.003-05:00

My dad took this picture. I will never be a nature photographer he took this right as the sun was coming up. I would be in bed for hours after this picture was taken.

Kolay and Matt with there little one Wait that one is mine.

Matt was Stud and carried Maya for the first half of our hike.

Bottom bolt

This little guy stuck his nose right on the flame.

Camping Grand Tetons

2009-08-06T11:08:00.000-05:00

2009-07-08T21:25:00.003-05:00

Life has been very busy sinse we have come back from Pocatello. Jordon spent two weeks in Infectious disease. It was a great learning experience but the hours were BAD!! He would get up at 5:15 and not get home until after 6:00. He is now working in Ana... I really can't spell it but it is the rotation where you but people to sleep. This has been a great two week for him, he has been intubating like crazy. The hours are better so I like this rotation.

Addie has been playing like crazy. She had a great time camping and sleeping in the tent. Her and Elise spent most of the time chasing bugs. I don't know if Addie ever touched one but she was more than willing to help Elise find them. We took Addie swimming yesterday and she did great. The baby pool was closed so Addie had to be in the big pool and was not willing to let go of mom and dad (I know how an oranguatan feels if that is not spelled right its jordon's fault). After a little coaxing and a water noodle tied around her chest she was off swimming by herself. She was so proud of her self! For all of those interested Addie is still going strong with the princess theme in her life. She did put on some long socks that came up to her knees and told me they were Volleyball socks! Baby steps

Maya is still Maya she is fearless except when it comes to nursery. The regular lady that holds Maya for the entire time was not there on Sunday so Maya decided that she was going to cry until she threw up all over one of the nursery workers :( they were not very happy with me. I think they were very glad to hear that it was our last Sunday. There is some innocent nursery leader in Pocatello who has no idea what is heading her way in a couple of weeks! Maya still loves the water. At the pool that we took the kids to there is a slid that halls butt and Maya loves it.We constantly hear "slide more slide more, up up up." The life guards could not believe how much she loved the slide. Allison this is for you. Maya woke up this morning and decided instead of letting me know that she was awake and poopy she would take her diaper off and scoot her butt all over the crib. I threw the sheets away because I know I was never going to get the stain out. she was very proud of herself. She kept pointing at the diaper and poop and smiling. I wanted to kill her.

I have to give Bruce his props. We went for a walk Sunday, Addie has started walking instead of riding in the stroller, she really like to walk Bruce well we came around the corner and there was this Giant Mastiff (the sandlot dog) Bruce took off wanting to play, I yelled at Addie to let go so she didn't get knocked over or killed by this horse/dog. I thought Bruce was going to get eaten but to our amusement the Mastiff tucked tail and Bruce chased the whimpering dog clear down the block! So much for the Mighty Mastiff. If gave us all a good laugh

We had a great 4th we went camping Friday night with the Johnson's and had the campground to ourselves. It was wonderful; we had a great view of the water but we were far enough that you didn't have to keep the kids on a leash. While we were there two huge storms rolled through. I love sitting in tents and listening to the rain. The second storm that came through dropped about an inch of rain. All you mom's are thinking O what a muddy mess! NOPE the soil was sand! We also had just enough wind to keep the bugs away. It was a great trip.
We came home Saturday to find that Caper had flooded! 1 1/2 inches in 1hour. After naps and unpacking we headed up to the Johnson's for some amazing Fajitas. Then went to watch the fire works. Bruce was trying to sit on my lap for the entire show. The best part was on the drive home. Addie really really really had to go pee so Jordon pulled over on a busy road and took her pee out in the rain.

I have been keeping busy. Almost all of the stuff I have been selling sold, so I have been making a new batch to sell before I leave. I know, it's the non crafty selling crafts. What is this world coming to? Jordon and I are training for our next 1/2 marathon in Sept. Photography is coming a long I have been taking pictures like crazy since I have been back in Casper. We started packing our house yesterday and take off for Des Moines on Saturday. I feel like a kid waiting for Christmas.

4th of July

2009-07-08T21:20:00.000-05:00

Maya supporting the Wyoming school!

Milla what a twig

This is one of the only pictures I have of Kelli

Addie taking a pee!

4th of July Campting

2009-07-08T21:05:00.003-05:00

Maya crawled up into the Johnson's Expedition

and buckled her self in and lot me it was time to

go bye bye. She sat in there car for a good half

hour while we packed. It was kind of nice I wish

we could have got the rest of the kids to do the

same.

going for a ride!

Deep in thought

Chauncy and Milla enjoying the fire

Ryan, Kellie's brother came camping with us and

was a tone of fun!

The kids looking for poor grasshoppers to torture

Mountain man Jordan went to find wood for the

fire and came back with an entire tree!

this was the view from our camp site, guess if

you are going to camp somewhere with no trees
you can at least enjoy the water

After one of the huge storms

Maya

2009-07-08T20:57:00.001-05:00

The latest carnage

Maya took a spill at Kellie's house! That week she came back with war wounds every time she when to Kellie's

Water logged

2009-06-17T17:02:00.000-05:00

Grandma's house means lots of water! I don't know if there was a nice day that went by when my kids were not wet.

Addie is 4 a few weeks early

2009-06-17T16:58:00.001-05:00

May took one of Addie's presents and made a break for it!

Allison eat your heart out! Try to top this cake. yea sure I made it with the help of my mother in law and Fred Meyers

We are trying to marry Addie off anyone interested! she is a 10 cow kid

Addies B-day

2009-06-17T16:55:00.001-05:00

Aunt Emerz checking to see if the dress is her size
Addie and her B-day wedding dress
Dad told Maya to smell the flowers but she took it one step further and tasted them
what did you get! More princess getup

Memorial Day

2009-06-17T16:52:00.000-05:00

Memorial Day
Jen and Bella with her amazing comb over
The Tetons right out my relatives back door sooooo Jealous

2009-06-17T16:48:00.000-05:00

My relitives lawn was covered in Dandylions and it was beautiful

Say Cheese
Maya lov'n layla

2009-06-17T16:45:00.000-05:00

We went to Tetonia for Memorial were all of my grandpa's family is buried it was a lot of fun and a beautiful day!

Check out Maya's abs she gets those from her mom

2009-06-17T16:40:00.000-05:00

My parents bought a rocking swing set for the grand kids and Addie took it upon her self to make sure that grandpa didn't want for anyone to talk to! Jordon and I sat inside and watched Addie talk my dads ear off laughing our guts out. There is never a quiet moments with her.

Hey Grandpa are you done yet!

Back in Casper

2009-06-16T17:08:00.002-05:00

We are back from our month stay in Pocatello. I have to admit I was not looking forward to going to Poky, we were settled in Casper and had a good thing going. But after our month we are all excited to be moving there for the next nine months. Here is the run down of our month

Jordon did his month long Peds rotations with Dr Yost and had a wonderful experience. Dr Yost and his wife took Jordon and I out to dinner twice while we were then. It was a lot of fun to get to know the Doctor Jordon was working with. We hit it off with them and on our last week Dr Yost had us come up to his place and ride horses. It was a ton of fun, but I am still kicking myself because I didn't take pictures. Jordon had a great time and was suprised by all the people he knew that took there kids to Dr Yost. He spent some time in the ER and was able to reduce another ankle.

Our first 24 hours at my parents house was CRAZY!!!! Lets start with Maya. All of the Cousins were over and playing downstairs or so I thought, but I was wrong they had all headed outside and Maya followed. (I know mother of the year) Mason came running in and told us that Maya was in the Cactus, I headed out side to find that Maya had fallen down the hill and was laying in a Cactus plant screaming. I pulled her out and Jordon and I spent the next thirty minutes pulling needles out of her feet, hands, and legs. It was horrible. Her legs were red and bumpy for the next few days! You will all be glad to hear that I kept a closer eye on her for the rest of our trip!

Now on to Addie, Jordon and I woke up the first night to Addie screaming Mom, Dad get me out of here. (after the rat when my kids scream bloody murder in the night I have flash backs , and come to find out so does Jordon) I think I covered my parents basement in 3 strides. when I got into Addie's room I could hear her but she was not in the room she had walked in her sleep into the storage room moved a few boxes and was able to wedge herself between the two water softener units. She calmed down as soon as we got in the room and informed me that she as looking for her blanky! Her blanky was safe and sound in her bed. I slept the night in her room that night and a night light was installed the next morning. We had to call the soft water man to come and fix all the tube and wiring that Addie had pulled out! It is a good thing that Grandma and Grandpa love her. The final destruction in the first 24 hours came from Bruce. He is not the smartest dog and could not quite get the hang of screen doors. He tried to run through three of them before he learned to slow down and check. Jordon's screen fixing talents didn't go to waist this month. I am happy to say the rest of the month went smooth!

I stayed busy taking pictures and working for my mom. It was a great break for me she would take the girls and I would work at the apartments. We went Mt biking and ran a lot getting ready for our 1/2 marathon. Which was last weekend and was amazing! My mom and dad came down and ran the 10K my dad took 1st in his age group and my mom took second. Jordon took 19th overall running 13.2 miles in 1hr 46min. I came in at 2hr 15min, and my sister in law Emily was right there with me. Kelli and Chauncy were right behind us. It was amazing to accomplish such a distance and have so many people you love there to experience it with. Jordon's parents brought our girls down the morning of the race so they could watch mom come running in. (Jordon ran to fast and they didn't get there in time to watch him come in) I could not have done it with out Kelli and Emily my Casper and Idaho running partners. Kelli got me started and Emily made me finish my training. We all had such a great time we are already signed up for the pocatello half!!

We celebrated Addie's birthday while we were home and she is even more decked out in Princess material. Jordon's Aunt Jane gave Addie a wedding dress with all the fixings. She is obsessed with getting married after Emily and Kolay's weddings. Addie loves being with her cousins and had a sleep over with each of them at Grandma's house and the she had a sleepover at her cousins and went to her first movie!

Maya is Maya; messy and into everything. She is still not talking, she could if she wanted to but that would require her to couporate (SP) Maya has been attempting to go to the nursery the month we were in Poky and had a hard time. I finally said that enough was enough and our first week back in Casper I took her to nursery and asked which one of the leaders was the mean one.(Allison I really could have used you) They both looked at me like I was nuts but I told them that I wanted them to tell Maya to knock it off when she started crying. I then turned around and ran our of the room, I could hear Maya screaming down the hall. One of the nursery leaders brought another mom her screaming child and informed me that Maya had cried so hard that she had thrown up, but they had taken care it and she had calmed down. I went to peak in between classes and Maya was sound asleep on a women's lap. Crying is a lot of work. Maya is now three days off the BINKY. I have been weak and let her have it to sleep 7 months longer then I was going to. I cut her off Cold Turkey the day after we came back to Casper and she is doing better then I thought! (Leanne you can do it)

All in all it was a great month, we will enjoy our little bit of time left in Casper, then Des Moines here we come, then off to casper to pack and Pocatello get ready for US?

No more snoring

2009-04-13T19:08:00.001-05:00

Addie at the surgery center!
She was such a trooper. Addie is back to her old self, minus five pounds. Her surgery went great. The Doctor told us that her Adenoids we so large that they were cutting of her nasal passage. No wonder she snored so bad. The best part about all of this was the meds they gave her before they took her back for surgery. They make the kids HIGH AS A KITE! Addie sat on Jordon's lap making funny noises and strange movements with her hands. I though I was going to pee my pants.

Someone tell Maya to stop picking her nose

2009-04-13T18:18:00.002-05:00

I got one with out the finger, never mind I had to crop Jordon's hand out of picture because he was holding her hand!

Happy Easter to all. We had a great Easter. I found some killer dresses for the girls that were on a sale! I know I know you are all wondering who I went shopping with but I did this shop all on my own. I tried to get some pictures of the girls before church. Let me know what you think! I bet I have ten pictures with Maya's finger in her nose. In fact she is on my lap right now with her finger in her nose. Some kids suck there thumb, Maya digs for gold!

Life is never boring with Maya she is now three for three in crapping in the bath tub. I am getting real sick of cleaning the tub and bath toys. I would think about ending baths for Maya permanently but I would not get to watch Addie climb the walls trying to get out of the tub before the poop gets her. I can only describe it as when adrenaline kick in and people are able to move at super human speeds. You have to remember that Addie is the kid who freaks out when there is hair of grass in the tub, can we say OCD. Nope! I am not done talking about Maya's poop yet. I ran into Addie's primary teacher yesterday at church and she told me that Addie announced to the entire primary that her sister had pooped on all of her Easter eggs! (It is true I put all of the plastic eggs in the tub for the kids to play with and whamo Maya poops and I was not about to clean the eggs so I threw them away much to Addie's frustration. At least others are also getting a good laugh at Maya's poop.

Easter Eggs

2009-04-13T18:16:00.001-05:00

We decotated egges and Jordan and I had way more fun then our kids! Addie loved to put the sticker on and Maya sat in her high chair eating, and painting with water. Maya eats everything so it is best to just give her things that are safe for eathing.

We had a very White Christmas

2009-01-16T10:54:00.000-06:00

It is great to be back from our three week trip to Pocatello. It was a busy trip and we all needed a vacation afterwards. We came home to Addie and Maya sick with the flu, Jordon so tired that he was sick. All because he had been up the night before with Addie throwing up. I got some crazy sickness THING (the doctors don't even know what caused it) I went from being an active 27 year old to someone who could hardly walk, lift, or turn my head. I am glad to announce that we are all recovering and life is getting back to normal.
Kolay was married while we were home and it was amazing. We are all so happy for her and Matt. They are a great match. I love Matt, he is a great guy and good to my sister but truth be told I just love to tease him. He gets so embarrassed!!! (Allison you would eat him alive)
This was one of the first Christmases I can remember when I didn't sleep well. I was so excited for Addie. She's officially old enough to really get into the holidays. She woke up Christmas morning and came out to see that Santa had brought her a little black baby! "This is just what I wanted," she yelled. She made a haul between the grandmas and Aunt Sara, so now the girls are set.
I still don't know where Addie came from. She got sponge curlers and wants them in her hair all the time so she can look like a princess. (when I was younger you all but had to hog tie me to get a brush in my hair, and Jordon to this day doesn't even comb his hair.) We think there might have been a mix up in heaven. We love her and get a kick our of the princess thing but all I can say is she better grow out of it or you will find Addie on e-bay for her 16th birthday. If not, whe'll be one of the few rock climbing princesses in the neighborhood. (That's not an option)
Maya "The fat kid" sat in her high chair the entire time we were opening presents, happy to be eating cereal. She's at the age where boxes are more fun than the presents. Maya is finally starting to take steps with a lot of help and encouragement from grandparents, aunts and uncles. She's really starting to come into herself. She has the best facial expressions and watch out if she doesn't like you because she'll drill holes in your head! My aunt Diane describes the girls the best. You have to really work for Maya's love and Addie doesn't need anyone because she is in a word all her own and has plenty of people there with her!!!
Jordon is working in radiology right now and learning a lot! I really like this rotation because there is no test at the end so we get to have him around at night. He has been a ton of help with the girls.
I'm staying busy with Scentsy and vinyl letters. I hope to have my photography web site up and running some time next week! I shot kolay's wedding and had a great time. It was a little stressful at times but thankfully we had Allison on speed dial to save the day. I truly love taking pictures for people. It's addicting, but I wish I could say the same for Adobe photo shop. I think you need a PhD in computer geek to run this program.
To all of my friends and family in the Midwest and farther I feel for you in the cold. Casper hasn't looked so bad this week. You are in the negatives and we are in the 40's, and gas is still under $1.30/gal. So if any of you want to come to my tropical paradise please just let me know!

Christmas Morning

2009-01-16T10:17:00.000-06:00

Christmas Morning

2009-01-16T10:12:00.000-06:00

Princess Addie

2008-11-14T09:31:00.000-06:00

Addie twirled the entire time she had her dress on! She walked laps around my mom's classroom waving and twirling at everyone. She takes princess to a whole new level.
Addie and her homemade crown
Addie's cousin Megan. They had a great time being princess together. Addie loves her cousins!

Lioness

2008-11-14T09:27:00.000-06:00

Maya with her engaged aunt Emily.
We took the kids to my moms school for the Halloween parade. Maya, our little lion. She was not a fan!!
Still not a fan

Maya's trip to Idaho

2008-11-14T09:22:00.000-06:00

Maya loving her daddy right before the girls and I head to Idaho! What a way to say goodbye
Maya only slept for one HOuR on our eight hour drive. What is wrong with my kids! Neither of them slept the entire drive home.
I took this picture at the end of our trip. Maya had, had enough! (Yes I took these pictures while I was driving)

Painting the Pumpkin

2008-11-14T09:17:00.000-06:00

Casper Pumpkin Patch

2008-11-14T09:15:00.000-06:00

life in Casper

2008-10-25T10:17:00.000-05:00

Life is going good in Casper. Jordon just finished his Psych Rotation and really enjoyed it. He starts back in his favorite place, the ER, on Monday.
Addie and Maya are going like crazy. Maya is growing out of her clothes fast. She can wear an outfit and by the time I wash it it won't fit her anymore. I DO LAUNDRY EVERY WEEK!
Can't wait for Santa (aka Grandma's) to help me replenish my girl's wardrobe.
Addie's Funny comments:
Addie and I were sitting eating lunch a few days ago and our neighbors snowman's head fell off. Addie looked at me with huge eyes and dramatically exclaimed HOLY CRAP MOM DID YOU SEE THAT! I laughed so hard.
She also got on the phone with Kolay and asked her is she needed a band aid for her broken thumb. She kept telling me for the rest of the day that we needed to take Kolay a band aid.
You really have to watch what you say around her because she actually listens, and remembers everything you say. Sounds like someone else I know (KOLAY)
I am getting excited to head to Pocatello. Next week the girls and I are going home for a week. It will be nice to see family. Wish me luck driving 8 hours, or 7 if I drive like Grandma Cindy!

We spend a lot of time talking outside because
our cell reception is so bad. I tried sitting on
the trike like Jordon and I got stuck!

Snow in OCTOBER

2008-10-25T09:54:00.000-05:00

Addie making a snow angle, she looks like she is in pain!

I put this picture on for Allison: I know you are a closet dog lover!

Maya was nice enough to sleep for awhile so mom
could play outside
DO you people see how much fun we are having,
this should make you all want to come and visit!!!!!!

Making a snowman

2008-10-25T09:50:00.000-05:00

Addie was out of be 7am Saturday
morning wanting to build a snowman with dad

I know I am a good mom (Toke it up Addie)

I can tell me are in the west. Our snowman did not
even last the day before he melted and fell apart.

Going to find sticks for arms!

2008-10-25T09:44:00.000-05:00

Maya playing with DAD
The Art Museum has a art center for the kids.
We went for playgroup, Addie had a blast cutting, gluing, painting and putting on puppet shows

Teeth= ouch

2008-10-01T11:32:00.000-05:00

2008-10-01T11:26:00.000-05:00

Allison this is for you

She is not in Dexter's league but lets be honest who is!

Maya spent her whole nap getting her hair to look like this

A face only a mother could love. Just kidding but what an I going to do with this kids hair.
Addie's hair does its self. Maya's ?

2008-10-01T11:06:00.000-05:00

On our way to church!

Here is the new hair cut. I love it but I think this
is as short as I will go!

Poor Bruce! Addie made a train and Bruce was tied to it all morning. I finally had to take of his collar so Addie would leave him alone. When Addie does something she does it well. You should have seen the energy that went into this train. I was in big trouble when I need the baskets to finish the laundry!

Addie's new Princes Dress.
She loves to twirl around.
I am just waiting for her to twirl into
a wall and need stitches!

2008-09-10T09:51:00.000-05:00

Maya

2008-09-09T13:09:00.000-05:00

Addies Birthday Party

2008-08-21T12:05:00.000-05:00

Maya Loves her uncle Brandon, We think it is because of his quiet manner

Maya's great Grandma (Nanny) made her this hat. I really think the hat shows off her cheeks

The little pirates on a scavenger hunt. Grandma Cindy got the gold medal this birthday. She planned the entire party!

Addie was so excited the blow out her Candles. She did it with just wind power even though there were a few in the crowd calling for spit! yuck

2008-08-21T11:56:00.000-05:00

Playing with the cousins at Grandma's

Addie and Grandma Red playing at the park
This summer was one big party

2008-08-16T12:31:00.000-05:00

While in Chicago we went to Lincoln Park zoo. The aquarium, the Navy pier, and WICKED

Sarah and Steve were and are still my hero's, they came and spent the day with us. They were the most blessed humans on the planet because they watched our rug rats while Jordon and I went to WICKED.

Addies favorite part of the trip was playing in the fountain "Typical kids"

If I look like I am glowing it is because I am. This was one of the most amazing nights of my life. Jordon surprised me with tickets. IT was TOTALLY WICKED

Chicago

2008-08-16T12:22:00.000-05:00

When Jordon finished Boards we went to Chicago! It was amazing.

And the zoo keepers think finger prints on the glass are bad

Pucker up for a kiss

I love fat babies

Camping

2008-08-16T12:09:00.000-05:00

Kolay and I sporting the Teton village look

Say Cheese

Maya's first night in a sleeping bag. She was a trooper.

2008-08-16T00:12:00.000-05:00

More pictures of our Vacation

Moose Falls. I jumped off of this when I lived in Jackson.

The Grand Canyon of Yellowstone. If you have not been there you need to go. It is an amazing creations

Addie and Grandpa taking it easy in Jackson's town square

Maya and her Daddy. (She spit on the back of his head the entire ride)

Tetons

2008-08-15T23:54:00.000-05:00

We spent a week in Grand Teton, and Yellowstone National park. After spending two years in the midwest it was amazing to spend some time back in the mountains.

Maya could not keep up with the Camping pace

The Crew hanging on the beach

Favorite aunt Kolay working hard lugging Massive MAYA up the trail

Grandpa with the second generation of Campers

2008-08-11T15:01:00.000-05:00

Maya is Working on cutting two more teeth right now. She is crawling and getting into everything. I am sad to say that all of her moving is trimming her down. Maya's favorite past time is playing hide and seek with Addie. Maya is very good at this game because Addie laughs so hard when she is hiding that Maya has no problem finding her.

Summer in IDAHO

2008-08-07T14:23:00.000-05:00

WE Made a slip and slid and Grandma's house. It was a blast.

2008-08-07T13:51:00.000-05:00

Addie had three Birthday's this year and now truly thinks the sun rises and sets for her. She had a great time this summer playing with her cousins. She is our drama Queen. I am a firm believer in Nature VS Nurture. She is a girly girl. Bling, dresses, high heels, lipstick, she loves it all! She must get it from her dad because I know she does not get it from me! She is Adjusting to her new home in Casper but thinks her Des Moines friends are going to be at the park when we go. (We all miss our Des Moines Family)
The Girls and Grandpa