The Avery Family

Mr. Max

2011-12-13T21:16:00.009-07:00

So for weeks before Max's birthday, he informs us that he is getting a "Cookie Monster cake!"

A) He barely knows who cookie monster is, so where did this come from? and B) There is no way in heck I can make one! I can BARELY make a regular cake! But lo and behold, the day before when I was getting supplies at the store to attempt the dreaded cake, here was this beauty sitting there, just begging to be taken to Max. How perfect is that!
This boy had been watching his friends and relatives blow out candles for the past month for their birthdays and he had been practicing. He was so ready for this big moment!

One happy boy!
Look at that grin! He doesn't even care what's inside!

Another big event that happened in November was Ella's first swim meet! She started on the Silver team in September and has

been doing amazingly well. She is the youngest on the team (ages 9 and up and she is only 8). To have a meet was pretty scary and she was so nervous, but she did amazing. Grammy came up to watch her and her family was there! We're so proud of all the hard work she puts into it!

Trying to figure out what a "relay" is. Her dad was one of the time keepers so he got this awesome shot of the fear in her eyes!

Halloween 2011 (Best one yet!)

2011-12-13T21:03:00.007-07:00

Go ahead and fill in the blank on what Andy is supposed to be: Gandolf, Moses, or, according to one neighbor girl, Jesus. His intent? Dumbledor. He does a perfect voice of Dumbly-dor that all the neighborhood kids loved!

Ella was adamant on wearing her costume from kindergarten. About three inches too small in all directions, but she couldn't care less. Look at that smile!

Zoe informed me that she wanted to be "Christine" from Phantom of the Opera. Wow. How does one dress up for that? Well, this worked. This dress is actually Grammy's from when she was Zoe's age!

Max's current obsession is Darth Vader. No other costume would do. He even wore the mask for about two minutes!

Ahhhh, what an awesome sight! The streets crawling with little trouble makers! I love it!
This just warms my heart!

SURVEY SAYS!

2011-11-30T21:09:00.006-07:00

Sunshine?....... OR........ Bo?

SURVEY SAYS???????????

Wingin' It

2011-08-24T16:54:00.014-06:00

We did something very out of the ordinary for Andy. We left for

vacation with absolutely NO plans! I can't believe he was able to do that! We knew we were going to Yellowstone, but that was it. NO reservations. NO agenda. NO clue. Just got in the car and left. On our way up, the reservation desk for campgrounds in Yellowstone actually laughed at me when I called. We ended up squeaking into a place in Teton N.P. and it was much better than the parks in Yellowstone. It was an amazing camping trip. The kids had endless things to do, and Andy and I hadn't been up there since we were first married. It was breathtaking, and even Max keeps telling us anytime he sees steam of any kind that it's "The hot water!" of a geyser. Although, surprisingily: Total number of buffalo seen=0. Total number of moose=0. Total number of bears=0. We saw two femal elk, but I see more than that just driving to work in the morning.

On a side note, my little man who almost never gets sick, was miserable with sore throat, fever and rash. We still don't know what he had, but he was a trooper and still hiked and tried his hardest to work past his misery. What an awesome kid.

Here we rented a motor boat and went out on Jackson Lake. A wonderful family experience except that we discovered that Zoe is deathly afraid of boats. Hu.

I just love Max's pose in this picture. And Ella's stance. And her outfit. My kids, ladies and gentlemen.

On our way home, we took a ferry across Jenny Lake and hiked to Hidden Falls, a really great hiking trail when you aren't trying to squeeze by 200 other people. But worth it, one of the most gorgeous waterfalls you'll see.

Nibbles, A Life Sketch

2011-08-22T20:31:00.009-06:00

The whole purpose for this post is really the video at the end, because it's beauty still makes me cry. Ever since I was in kindergarten, every time I walk by a milkweed plant I look for caterpillars. I have NEVER seen one, but I still look. Well, we were hiking up at Wasatch State Park when we passed a patch, and I scanned for caterpillars quickly, and after not seeing any, I hear Zoe yell, "Mom! A caterpillar!" Sure enough, there he was. And that's how we met our newest pet, Nibbles.

That dang insect was so fun to watch, he grew huge so fast. And it was awesome teaching the kids things about him shedding his skin and the camouflage of his stripes. There was no lid on his bottle and one night he crawled around the rim, stretching up on his hind feet, putting on a show that made the kids laugh hysterically. They prayed for him every night, which was adorable and checked on him first thing in the morning.

One day, I set the jar on the back porch because I figured he needed more light. Well, I was babysitting a bunch of two year olds that day so I got a little distracted and suddenly noticed the jar upside down with all of the milk weed scattered across the porch and no caterpillar in sight. I can't tell you how nervous I was, thinking, "My kids are going to be so sad!" I searched for over an HOUR for that stupid insect, scratching the heck out of my arms going through raspberry bushes, and praying that a bird hadn't come by. I figured he was long gone when I finally found him climbing up a porch chair leg. I'm pretty sure I didn't imagine that he looked excited to see me too.
When we went for an overnight campout, Nibbles took advantage of the peace and quiet to build his little chrysalis. That thing is amazing, and I don't think I've ever even seen one since kindergarten.

There was a weekend when no one was going to be home due to work schedules and school, and those kids prayed so hard, "Please don't let Nibbles hatch till we're home !" Thankfully, he didn't. One morning, his cocoon was nice and black and we grew very excited! I figured we had a day or so left. We went to a park for lunch and once again, in the peace of a quiet house, Nibbles made his move. We came home to this.....

What a beautiful thing. I was just as amazed as all the kids.

My Foxy Good Time

2011-07-17T19:53:00.016-06:00

I can't believe I have never ran the Ragnar Relay before. It seems like it has been apart of our lives in the Avery house for so long! So this year, Andy wasn't the only one gone for two days, running, sweating, laughing and definitely NOT sleeping. I did the race with an all girl group of friends, some from the neighborhood, some new friends we met just for this race. It really was as fun as you hear about! Here are the girls in Van 2: Laura, Chloe, Amy, Camille, Christie, and myself along with our every faithful driver, Jonny. In case you can't tell, we were the "Foxes in Soxes" with our little fox tails and ears, we truly were the cutest team out there!

Why, oh why, would I put such an unflattering picture of myself on here? Because this is the face of someone who can't believe how fast they just ran. I ran 4.2 miles in 31 minutes thank you very much. It was awesome.

The scenery and places we went for this race were absolutely gorgeous. I've never been to Liberty or Eden but I now want to live there. This pic is the road going up to Snow Basin Resort.

Being in Van 2, our second legs STARTED at about 1:30 a.m. Did we attempt to sleep before our nighttime runs? Yes. Did we succeed? No. Especially since I was waiting to see Andy coming in at this exchange.

So the teams are usually 12 man teams. Here is Andy, finished with his part of a 4 man team. 4 only. And they each ran their sections straight. That means, Andy just ran 49 miles straight. In that outfit. There are flashing Christmas lights on the vest to add to the effect. (P.S. He's Lloyd Christmas. P.S.S. From Dumb and Dumber.)

My night run was crazy. It was 10.1 miles at 3:00 a.m. and I ran it way too fast. I got so sick, I wasn't expecting that. Here I am, not straying too far from the HoneyBuckets, when Andy surprised us with a visit.

My only regret, not getting a photo of the entire team, this is the closest we got: Krystal, Jessica, Becky, Camille, Christie, Chloe, Sarah, Kandice, Lara, Trisha

With a sick runner, Camille volunteered to step up and run Guardsmans Pass last minute. Here's Jonny making sure she doesn't collapse after her ascent into the clouds.

Together we did it! We conquered Guardsmans'! Camille the first half, me the second. I can say now it wasn't as bad as I thought. I don't think I would've said it then.

The finish line!!! We had people right and left telling us throughout the race that they loved our team, can you blame them. Look how adorable we are. Go you Foxy Ladies. Now lets eat some pizza!

Birthdays and Baptisms

2011-07-17T19:16:00.010-06:00

March is always such a busy month around here. I love that our girls birthdays are so close together, because that way noone can get jealous. We just say, "Don't worry, your birthday is next week." Or "You just had a birthday, remember."

Zoe turned 5 this year! Here she is at her birthday breakfast. I always had to wait until the evening for my presents, I don't know how we got into this "breakfast" tradition, but there it is.

Zoe had never had a "friend" birthday party before and she had only one thing on her mind for it....Kangaroo Zoo. There was no changing her mind, and believe me, I tried. She was in heaven when her friends started to arrive. Here we have Jakey, Caroline, Sydney, Emmy, Zoe, Chloe and Max.

Ella has one obsession this year, Harry Potter. Everything she talks about has to do with HP. Every thing she plays with her friends, her piano music, and it's the only thing she reads lately. She is on the 5th book, and I can't believe how well she reads them. I'll find her in her room after I've put her to bed, with her eyes wide open, gripping her covers, shaking with fear saying, "Harry and Ron are being chased by giant spiders!" Then 5 minutes later she'll come ask me if she can read in bed because she can't wait to find out what happens. She knew for months that she wanted a Harry Potter movie night for her party. I had no idea she had told her friends to dress up until a little Ginny, Harry, Trelawney, another Harry and another started to show up at the door. Ella, herself, was Hermione of course.

The sorting had put them all in Gryffindor, or course. Here they are in the Great Hall with the floating candle. Ella, Brooke, Sammie, Brielle, Rebekah, Karissa, Peyton, Liam and Zoe.

Baptisms

My beautiful girl turned eight this year. She has been so excited and so prepared for her baptism for a very long time. I tend to get a little stressed over planning big events, but this went perfectly. She got baptized the same time as one of her buddies and nex door neighbor, Liam.

Her cousin, Brandon, shared the day with Ella. He was baptized that morning in Lehi, then the whole Avery crew trucked over the Heber City for Ella's. Both baptisms were beautiful. They are so lucky to have such a big, loving family.

My wonderful girl and her dad. I've never seen her as happy as she was that day. Her whole body just glowed all day. I love you so much, Ella!

Ten Years, Baby!

2011-07-16T16:55:00.015-06:00

Snorkel Faces are very photogenic!

May 11th, 2001! That was the beginning for Andy and I! And I think ever since then we have been dreaming of going to Hawaii together, and this year was the year. We headed out for Maui, just the two of us and had a truly perfect vacation. We stayed in a little sugar cane plantation town called Haiku. It was gorgeous but also very much off the beaten path, which is just our style.

I think we will both agree that one of our favorite things we did was this run in the Molowki Forest. It was a 6 mile loop, and after every sing turn the scenery would completely change, from fern covered grounds to dark shadowy pines blocking out the light, to these tall eucalyptis trees. It was unreal, and a perfect run.

A very cool snorkeling spot, even though there was no sand. We hiked through the jungle, swinging on vines and then came to this perfect little cove.

Snorkeling at Molokini was okay, but what was really great was the huge pod of dolphins we saw. No swimming with them though. Next time.

What is this plant? Somebody tell me! A botanical garden on the road to Hana.

Cliff diving at the Seven Sacred Pools at the end of the Road to Hana. Yes, he's wearing a speedo.

Our last night at Mama's Fish House. Although, I could never forget the red snapper in Haiku, probably the best food I've ever tasted. The whole trip was completely amazing. I love you, Andy, and can't wait for the next 10 years!

Spring Break in Sand Hollow

2011-07-16T16:20:00.017-06:00

Did you know that if you want to camp in St. George for Spring Break, you should reserve a spot about 11 months ahead of time? Well, since we didn't do that, we ended up in Sand Hollow, right outside of St. George. The only thing I had heard about it, was that it was windy. Well, as you can see here, Max is proving this to be oh so true.

We went camping with our friends, Dan and Anne Harris and their girls. They are so much fun and put our camping skills to shame. We started things off right with a trip to Zion National Park. I hadn't been in the actual park for years, and the kids all love to hike. (Which brother does Andy look like in this picture??)

Below is an infamous picture. When we got around this bend I realized Zoe wasn't with us. With four blonde girls, two 7 year olds and two 4 year olds, they all started blending into each other and Zoe had slipped away. I looked back at the last picture I had taken, about 5-10 minutes before and can clearly see, Zoe isn't in it. Dan ran one way, Andy ran the other, and I stood there and panicked! After another stressful 5-10 minutes, Dan came back with her. Phew. It was during this trip that we realized the importance of Zoe's glasses!!! She can't tell who she is following! Thanks for finding her, Dan!

All together again, hanging on to Zoe for dear life didn't stop her from trying to get lost again. She needed a leash on this trip! (We're all still laughing pretty hard here because Zoe so bluntly told Dan, "Your laugh sounds like you're crying.")

Maddie, Ella, Zoe, Emma and Max.

Wish I was a kid and the wind didn't bother me. They didn't let it stop them for a second. (Well, maybe Zoe did.)

Max, trying to keep up with the girls.

Maddie, waiting for the adults to decide what to do on a very hot Fezzik.
Getting out of the wind for some sushi, Zoe is practicing her chopstick skillz.

Maddie and Emma are referred to as their "rock climbing friends". Here they are, finally getting out and doing the real thing. I'm so proud of them for trying, because it scares me to death!

Even Zoe!

The Bookshelf Saga

2011-04-21T22:50:00.007-06:00

Ever wonder how long it takes to have bookshelves built. I'll tell you...one year. From the first destructive rip of the carpet to the last handle screwed on, it took us one year. But it was worth it. We had my dream book shelves put in by my ever talented brother-in-law, Fred Hermansen. He custom designed them per my requests and basically he and Andy did EVERYTHING right there in my garage. It was terrifying to come home one day and see things that you had only talked about actually taking place, so I held my breath and trusted the both of them.

The shelves are basically strong enough to withstand an atomic bomb. I can't believe the number of nails and details that are put into these. During the process, Andy stepped on a teeny, tiny nail. It went through his shoe, and therefore was unnoticed for quite a long time. Until his foot doubled in size and he couldn't walk on it. He had quite the infection. Wimp.
And then came the painting. Let me explain the details that you can't see in these pictures. Behind all of the shelves is bead board. Lots of it. Meaning, days and days of me caulking prior to being able to paint. Then comes the sanding. Again, sanding one wall is no big deal, but each shelf has four sides....thankfully Andy was in charge of that. Then came the laquer and sleeping outside due to fumes and a delirious Andy. Do me a favor. Go lock yourself in a room of laquer fumes with no ventilation and tell me what you see. And then.... MORE SANDING! And the plastic and the retaping and the caulking of spots that were missed...the list goes on and on. And did you know, you can't put ANYTHING on paint for 3 MONTHS after it's painted!

Then, the day came, 12 months exactly from when they were started the cupboard doors arrived, beautiful and perfect. What I didn't think about....caulking, sanding, painting, everything all over again for the doors! But, they were finished and ready for Fred to hang the hinges on Ella's baptism day and the final product is here. Ahhhhh......

Courtesy of Precision Finish Carpentry

Christmas....a little late

2011-02-05T09:53:00.012-07:00

Christmas at the Avery house this year was amazing. Our kids are at the perfect ages to really make it perfect. The excitement and anticipation was tangible and I hope they remember this as being one of their best!

We started the season off with the typical kids Christmas party thrown by Park City Fire. This is the only place where the "real" Santa comes to visit before Christmas!The girls were nervous as usual, but Ella had her list ready! But why are there only two kids on his lap in this picture...?

Oh, that's why!

Decorating the tree. There was a bolus of ornaments around the bottom, right about at the height of Max's reach.
Christmas Eve! Putting out the letter for Santa with cookies and carrots for the reindeer. Zoe was so tired she couldn't get off the couch for a picture, but even Max knew something exciting was going on!
Christmas morning!!! Thank goodness they're not quite getting up when it's still dark out, but it was still pretty early. Max got a beloved train table from Santa. The girls just stared for at least 10 minutes before they even tried to open a present.
Oh dear, we're in trouble....
Max wouldn't put down his train even to open any other presents.
Grammy and Poppy stopped by Christmas morning and gave Zoe her favorite present of the day...Rapunzel. You can't beat that, Santa!

Goin' Courtin'

2011-01-07T16:40:00.005-07:00

I had a dream last night that Andy was in a play. It was an encore performance of all his "best roles" (whatever that means) and the town was mad at me because I wouldn't let him do it. I'm not sure, but I think that this dream was trying to tell me that I was way past due for blogging up the "Seven Brides for Seven Brothers" performance of a Mr. Andy Avery.

I'm going to start by answering the most commonly asked question of 2010: HOW did he get into doing a play? For those who don't know, Andy has an wonderful voice, and his practice at Rock Band has really helped develop that talent. A friend of ours, Carolyn, is an avid Timpanogos Valley Theater patron and was making the costumes for Seven Brides, when I told her, jokingly on Facebook, that it was Andy's dream to be Adam. This isn't necessarily untrue, it's a dang good show, plus, ironically, Andy actually HAS seven brothers. But Carolyn promptly popped over to inform Andy that there was a part to be filled: Benjamin. Yes, she had heard his Rock Band performances and he was given the part before he even knew about it. So that's how. The hard part was convincing him to actually do it! But he was a natural, and, even though it resulted in a HORRIBLE red hair dye job, he had a great time!

There are many hilarious stories to tell of his time on the stage, but those are for those late night talks when everyone is too tired and silly and start to let things slip that wouldn't normally be put into conversation. So, the too small cordoroys and the red button up shirt that "shows all his angles" (Sorry, had to throw one inside joke in there) are put away, but now, the memories are out there forever in cyberspace. Yes honey, one day when you least expect it, someone will refer back to these pictures!

Max Turns Two!

2010-11-13T10:35:00.006-07:00

My baby is done being a baby! Max was so excited it was his birthday, he sang the song and learned to change his fingers to "two" (well, almost, at least he's trying) and was so happy. And it's not just that he is getting so big, he's starting to talk in sentences that people can actually understand instead of his jabbering that he is so famous for! (I'm actually going to really miss the jabbering!) He says "I'm okay, Mom." and "Come on, guys!" and his favorite, "I want some candy!" (pronounced canding) among many others. He also said his first complete night time prayer which brought tears to my eyes. He is so sweet and cuddly, and I love him so much! Happy birthday, Mix Master Max!
First thing in the morning we told him we'd go on a hike, and he couldn't wait to get going. He is so good, he gets so excited to be outside and we probably went two miles before he needed to be carried at all!
Just in time to practice for Christmas.
Hey there, gorgeous!

It's the Most Wonderful Time of the Year!

2010-11-07T14:26:00.015-07:00

Some people long for their perfect snow white Christmases or salivate all year for that family dinner around the roast turkey at Thanksgiving. Yes, those are very nice holidays, and I love them too, but HALLOWEEN...now this is my holiday. This is the one I anticipate and my spirit gets a little thrill as it starts to draw near. So, you'll excuse me if I maybe put up one too many tacky decorations on my lawn or make it darn near impossible to get through my front door because I can't NOT hang up the dangling skeleton bones, or if I make my kids cry because I'm forcing them to trick or treat in the rain (because you can't NOT trick or treat! It's Halloween for crying out loud!)

This year was a wake up call for me, because Ella informed me a month ago she was going trick or treating with her friend and "didn't need" me to come. Ouch! But what if I want to?What if I NEED to? The other issue we had, was the critically acclaimed actor, Andy Avery, was to be starring in Seven Brides for Seven Brothers that evening so I had the kids on my own. But it all turned out well. That morning, Andy started a new tradition and raced with my brothers-in-law (in costume of course!) in a half marathon. Afterwards, we headed home for some Halloween chili and last minute preparations. Because it was raining all day and was freezing, Zoe and Max only hit a few houses with me before heading home for the night. It was low key, but still a really good time! And, yes...I'm already getting ready for next year!

Andy as Antoine Dodson, Korey as Pippy and Fred as Dwight Schrute!!!

My sister, Jenny, looking AWESOME! I WILL be copying her costume sometime soon!

The many faces of Zoe and Caroline. Zoe's official costume wasn't decided on till very last minute. Initially she absolutely refused to be the black cat, but the freezing cold rain helped to change her mind.

Wow, that's one long blog post!

2010-10-17T22:21:00.071-06:00

So much to say! Our fall has been so busy and fun I wanted to hurry and jot it all down,I debated with putting up many small posts of all the different things that have been going on with us this fall, but decided on one long mother of a post, so go get the popcorn! (Don't worry, it's mostly pictures!) I never got around to posting the first day of school. Ella is off to 2nd grade. 2ND GRADE!!! And the changes in her are nonstop. She cruises to school with a group ofher friends, and really doesn't need me any more. I'm still trying to get used to this little grown up. Then Zoe started her 2nd year of pre-school with her new teacher, Miss Katie. I love preschool, but I sure wish it was every day!

With the start of school, also came the start of another soccer season. Ella insists on playing, and definitely loves the social aspect of it. Zoe is really getting into it, and isn't

afraid to chase after that ball. I have to say, with two games going on at the same time and a crying Max to maneuver between the two, I wouldn't cry if they decided they never wanted to play again. I'm just sayin'. We also had a whole other round of races this fall. Beginning with a triathlon that Andy and I both did along with some his brotha's and sista'-in-laws called the Share-A-Smile. It's a shorty but tradition says we do it every year. Ella also did a short version of this and her own tri in Murray. And, as you may recall, there was Andy's 100 mile run and a few weeks later he did the "Dirty Dash"....twice. A 10K in the mud he did in the morning with his brotha's and with his buddies in the afternoon. Wish I could've done that one...who's in to do it with me next year?

I really love fall in the Heber Valley. It is gorgeous and there is so much to do. One afternoon I took the kids up to the Wasatch State Park and there is an old pioneer apple orchard there. We spent the afternoon picking apples and picnicking and hiking.

A few weeks ago I went to St. George with two of my friends, Camille and Christie, for a girls only trip. I've never left my family like that before but it was so much FUN until...dum dum dummm...I wrecked our car in the middle of St. George! Oopsies. It was a fender bender (as in to say, the other car was barely bended) but I can honestly say it wasn't completely my fault, and if it weren't for my friend, Christie's, in-laws, we might still be down there. That poor Honda, I don't know why it hates me, every time I drive it it decides to break something. Andy spent a few days fixing it up, and it's still running and probably will be FOREVER!

We decided to try out Cornbellies at Thanksgiving Point this year. We've never done it before, but the weather has been so gorgeous we finally caved. And I'm actually going to say it was worth the drive and cost and everything. You can

spend the whole day there (if you don't have a two year old) and have tons to do. We went with my sister, Laura, and her family and had a great time. Max loved the "cow" rides behind the tractor and Ella was a PRO at the climbing wall and Zoe got to play in Princessland with Charly. Good times. Good times.

Every time we drive past Bridal Veil Falls, Max gets very excited and starts screaming "Water! Water!" Actually, he screams that at any sort of outdoor liquid: lakes, rivers, sprinklers,

swimming pools...whatever, he is very passionate about his water. So the other day I decided to let him get up close and personal. Just so you know...the mountains are COLD in the mornings! It was 11:00 a.m. but the moutain shadow about froze us out. Still, they had a great time. And Max made a point of saying, "Bye bye Water!"

Next we headed to the Scarecrow festival in Midway. A nice, easy outing that the kids still haven't stopped talking about. Jack the Pumpkin King was my favorite.

So, it's been pretty crazy around here. Add into all of that piano lessons, gymnastics, play practice and jobs...wait, what was that? Did I say "play practice?" Yes, that's right, along with everything else, Andy is in a community theater production of Seven Brides For Seven Brothers! It opens this weekend, if you can believe it! He's playing Benjamin, and it's going to be great! There will be many pictures of that to come!

To wrap things up, here are a few pictures of the annual carving of the pumpkins. Amazing, isn't it, how the kids always forget that they have clean the guts out first? But the girls were troopers and actually did a lot of it themselves. Ella carved hers completely by herself, which made me a very proud mama, since I pride myself in my mad pumpkin carving skills. I'll take you on anytime, Fred!

Wasatch 100 Endurance Run

2010-09-13T21:15:00.008-06:00

I need to start this post off with a little observation. When I told people that Andy was going to run the Wasatch 100 they say, "Oh, cool." No big deal. Then, after a while, they ask, "So, that's the relay, right?" No, it's a 100 mile run. "Oh." A while later, I get follow up questions like, "So, who's he running with?" Or "How often does he have to run to reach a 100 miles?" It just doesn't sink in, to those who don't know, until finally we come to, "He's running the WHOLE 1oo MILES! BY HIMSELF? STRAIGHT?" That was pretty much the same reaction to anyone who isn't in the running community. And I get it. The idea that it is even physically possible is baffling. But hundreds of people do it. And some even enjoy it. And some, like Andy, can say they did it and NEVER do it again....I wish. :)

He started at 5 in the morning and ran the first 40 miles by himself along the top of the Wasatch mountains. But finally, after that, I was able to see him. He looked great and was happy after just running an absurd distance and still having 60 more to go! Starting at mile 40 they are allowed to have one person at a time run with them, for certain distances, to keep them going and keep them safe (and keep them sane.)

Andy's dad is trying to slap some sense into him, "Stop this running nonsense, are you crazy?"

Coming up into the Lamb's Canyon checkpoint with Tom. Now if Tom was only wearing matching knee socks, THEN they would look awesome.

Two of his life savers, Isaac and Tor (And little Tate on top.) It was such a gorgeous day.

These guys are so awesome. Treating blisters and changing socks while shoving food in his mouth to keep him going.
9:08 p.m. at the top of Millcreek Canyon. It was 31 degrees here but he was still strong and in good spirits, thanks to Isaac.

At 1:30 a.m. he rolled into Brighton Lodge for another pacer switch out and hey, why not brush his teeth while he's here? Thanks so much to Tor for crewing at every single stop, you were a life saver!!! (Oh yea, and thanks for running through pitch black mountains for 4 hours too.)
Someone's eyes are a little glazed and hands were a little shaky. He was still doing unbelievable at this point, but making me very nervous with how he was acting here. But Pete kept him safe and sane, even through the sleep walking and altitude. Here's the thing, his buddy Pete is running a marathon, across the top of the mountains in the middle of the night in 28 degrees for Andy. That's love.
10:22 a.m. 29 hours and 22 minutes later he's at the Homestead! YEA!!!! 67th place out of 250
Andy and his buddy Jeff. Jeff was just as insane and ran the whole race well. He tore it up with only minimal damage to his extremities. Thanks for training with Andy, buddy. You're both nuts.

Run, Ella, Run! (And swim and bike....)

2010-09-13T20:20:00.010-06:00

A long, cold wait. The water was warmer than the air.

On Labor Day Ella made us the proudest parents ever! She has been begging to do a triathlon all summer and she finally got to! (We won't talk about the last time we tried to have her do one. Let's just say her parents feel like jerks.) It was in the Murray city pool and it was FREEZING! The swim was 75 meters, the bike was 2.3 miles and the run was .6 miles. Not too bad for a seven year-old. I was so nervous about her swimming on her own, because she just started learning this summer and hasn't done it a whole lot, so we kept reminding her, "When you get tired, just use the rope." Well, she didn't forget. It was so cute, she swam about 10 feet straight for the rope and then slowly pulled herself along, swimming here and there, not wanting to get out of the water. She was second to last out of the water out of everybody...and I am not sarcastic when I say I am so proud! :0) I was just relieved to have the swim over with. Especially since after that she booked it on her bike ride, going up 5 super steep hills and passing kid after kid, then coming in smiling and started her run passing even more coming in 36th out of 63. Not too bad!! My little girl is so amazing. I love you, Ella!

Actually happy to finally get in the water. The anticipation always makes you more nervous.

Here she goes! She just wanted to stay in the water where it was warm.

Transition 1. I wish we could have helped her, but she did it all on her own.

Pass her, Ella! Mommy and Max cheering her on as she heads out on her bike.

Starting the run she grabbed a banana and drink. Not because she necessarily needed it, but because that's what Dad does in his races.

My gold medalist!

Ward Campout

2010-08-30T12:43:00.009-06:00

This month our ward went to some campground up some canyon and did some stuff. Why are my details so vague? Because I didn't go! (Kind of.) The week of the camp out I had a crazy work schedule, but Andy, being the super dad that he is, took the kids all by himself, dog too. And of course it was a piece of cake for him and they all had a blast. I showed up after work for an hour, but I didn't even see the kids while I was there because they were off having a blast with their friends and wouldn't tell me where they were going anyway because it was a "secret place." Adorable. When people ask Ella what she did during the summer break, the only thing she remembers is "Going on a ward camp out!" That's just how fun it was.

Max and Tele. He is sharing his cars!!! It must be love.

I'm telling this third hand, but that night, once they were all laying down, Max noticed the stars for the first time in his life through the ceiling of the tent. He was so excited and pointed and yelled "Bubbles! Oooo! Bubbles!" Andy even recorded it on his phone. If you know Max, when he gets excited, he gets REALLY excited.
Morning eyes.

Bear Lake 2010

2010-08-01T20:59:00.012-06:00

The family trip to Bear Lake this year was so much fun! My family is getting so big but the kids are old enough to entertain themselves with only minimal amounts of tears and blood. We spent the time hanging out at the beach and at the pool and staying up way too late for people of our age. Here's a question though: How is it that 5 people raised in the same home could marry such different spouses? We are quite the mix, and I love it. Thank you again, Mom and Dad, for an amazing trip!

Cruisin' with Poppy on the "tractor"! Max is such a guy's guy.

Max loved the "WATER!"

Ella, Shamri and Max

So, we pretty much commandeered the pool. This is the beginning of our 4 man high chicken fights. My face looks awesome, but don't I look so tough!? That's like 500 lbs on my shoulders! ;)

I couldn't get my legs on Andy's shoulders, and that was the end of our totem pole. I think us "grown ups" had more fun here than the kids.

God Bless America

2010-07-06T16:14:00.009-06:00

The Fourth of July truly is my favorite holiday. And I'll take anyone to the mat arguing that small town Fourth's are THE best. Moroni's celebration is so much fun, even if it is just for nostalgia's sake. But it's wonderful seeing the same faces sitting in the same spots under the same trees for the parade year after year, and hitting the carnival with old fashioned games like fishpond and bob for apples (sadly, they have entered newer things like bounce houses, which just aren't the same), and then BBQ turkey and fun with the family while the kids count their candy they caught from the parade .

Sadly, this year, I missed it all. I had to work and I can't believe how depressed I was about it, but Andy and the kids went and had a great time. My ever thoughtful and kind brother-in-law, Fred, shared his pictures with me. (Although he may have just been rubbing my face in the fact that I wasn't there, I'll never know.)

I do want to add, how grateful I am for this country. I know our Heavenly Father has blessed us so much for giving us this land and all of our countless freedoms, freedoms that I don't really even understand that others don't have. My heart is full for those who have fought and still fight for us, who protect us, who protect my family and preserve this country. Thank you.

True adrenaline. Zoe with cousins Aiden and Keyton.

Check out that face! Zoe in the middle.

I'm still not sure if I believe it! Ella rode a motorcycle all by herself!

We went down on Sunday (the actual 4th) to pick up the kids and she showed me that they weren't lying about the motorcycle.

Maybe it's not a full sized motorbike, but who's that going to stop? Can you stop laughing at this picture? Because I couldn't!!!!

Yes, yes. I even gave it a go. Hell's Angel's has a new member. I just need me some sweet chaps!

Zoe's Big Day

2010-06-04T20:45:00.015-06:00

First Day! ..............................................Last Day!

I did not cry at Zoe's preschool graduation. Why? Because this is the best kind of graduation to have! One where your child will be back in preschool in the fall and you can pretend they are still the same age and will stay that age forever. It was a wonderful night. Her teacher is the most amazing teacher I have met and I agree with Zoe when she says, "I never, never, never, never want to leave preschool!"

Zoe and Miss Andrea

Bestest Buddies

The graduate in all her glory. I love this girl!!!!

How to Train Your Dragons

2010-05-16T21:43:00.005-06:00

A fun fun season of soccer ended yesterday.

"Coach" had as much fun as the girls.

These are The Dragons.(That was Megan's suggestion and it stuck)

Zoe got cut and pasted cause she was bending it like Beckham on the other fields with her team.

Mommy just chased Max around for a couple hours every Tuesday and Saturday.

Ironman St. George = B-R-U-T-A-L

2010-05-07T14:31:00.014-06:00

That is not to say that ANY Ironman race isn't brutal, because, come on!, we know they are. But this one in particular was astoundingly difficult. Difficult??!! What am I saying??? It was insane. They have already labeled it the most difficult course in North America. And Andy did it!

So, I am a terrible wife...I was not there to see him to start. Yes, I am ashamed. I drove down early in the morning with my Mom, knowing we would be late but would catch up with him on the bike. The swim was in Sand Hollow Reservoir and he did fantastic. My mom and I tried desperately to see him on the bike thanks to the guidance from good friends and many Blackberry's put to use for me to track him, but, alas, we missed him by minutes. So we saw him get off the bike (after the 112 mile ride I might add) at T2 and start his 26.2 mile run. It was painful to watch, but he did so amazing. His final time was 12 hrs and 9 minutes which he is very happy about. He came away feeling great, and hey! at least he wasn't the one with the broken collar bone!

This was such a fun race...for me. My mom was my savior and it was so great to get to hang out with her for the day, (Even though I about killed her dragging her around the coarse all day) I got to see and catch up with good friends that made the long waits so much more fun, (Love you Michele, JoAnn and Bill!) I got to see my awesome friends conquer the race, (Steve, Rob and Todd! I am bursting I am so proud of all of you!) And especially, I got to see Andy in his element. Andy...you are an incredible person. You inspire me in every way and I am so lucky to have you. I love you, babe!

Waiting, waiting, waiting.... I show up early at the check points and then I spend the whole time wondering if I've missed him.
This is at about mile 135...5 more to go!
Getting some sugar before starting the run!

Finish line!

Andy on the megatron!

To Help Me Remember...

2010-05-05T11:30:00.000-06:00

Zoe, "Ella, I think perhaps I love you."

Zoe, "What if Max was the daddy? That would be so crazy."

Ella, "I have to read 'Slurpy Glurpy' really fast or I get too scared. I feel the scared in me go in my face and my face gets soooo hot!" (referring to the poem by Shel Silverstein.)

Zoe, "Wow, Max was crying so loud! That makes me so impressive. Do you know what "impressive" means, Mom? It means that Max is crying the loudest and it makes me so embarrassed. Do you know what "embarrassed" means? It means that I just can't take it anymore!"

Max, "Push the button." (Hey, he's a baby. That's huge!)

Zoe was waiting right outside the shower and scared me to death, when, as soon as I stepped out she said, "Mom! That took you two whole hours!" Me:"I'm sorry I took so long honey." Her:"No, that is not even a long time! Good job, Mom!"

Ella at dinner, "Banana Hammock! Mom, can we get a banana hammock? I love those things." After the laughter died down, Andy didn't want her telling her teachers she was getting a banana hammock, so we explained they were a boys swimming suit..., "So why are they called that? Is it because they have pictures of bananas on them?"

Zoe, after being told what a good girl she is, "Yea, because I don't bite or hit anyone, hu? But I do lick people. If they want me to lick them I do, but if they don't want me to lick them, I won't!"

Goblin Valley 2010

2010-04-22T15:35:00.006-06:00

Ella, Andy, Chloe, Ethan (tiny in the back), Doug and LauraJane and Zoe in front.

What's Spring Break without getting a little dirty? This year we left the freshly fallen snow and headed to Goblin Valley with our friends, the Fryers. If you haven't been, GO! We didn't have to leave our campsite for the kids to find a million things to do. That is one key ingredient of good vacation....the kids can entertain themselves!

Now why don't they make these packs in adult sizes?

You can't tell, but Andy is actually up pretty high with Max on his back. Max loved it!!!

This is our campsite, and yes that is dirt around Max's mouth. He may have eaten a few pounds of the stuff.

Just For Fun

2010-04-12T10:16:00.003-06:00

The family that skiis together, stays together!

We went up to the Canyons with the girls on Saturday. They had a lot more fun than they're showing right here!

Andy spent the whole time skiing backwards, hopefully Zoe appreciates this when she's in the 2018 Olympics!

Las Vegas Showdown at Sundown

2010-03-30T20:03:00.012-06:00

As a spectator of triathlons, there is a lot of sitting around time. The actual time spent cheering on my athlete is about 30 seconds x 3. That makes for few pictures of Andy, and a lot of pictures of us hanging around. I hope Andy understands!

This past weekend the race was an Ironman 70.3 distance. The weather was beautiful, but pretty windy. The green grass made my mouth water, I had been so hungry for it for so long! Andy's brother, Matt and wife Nicki came to be MY support crew, and saved me from the grueling 6 hour wait. We passed the time feeding kids and criticizing the horribly organized race. (How can you not have water or people at an aide station, seriously!) It was a fun trip, and a good practice race for THE big one coming up. Stay tuned....

This is MY support crew, I honestly couldn't have made it without them. Thanks guys! (Andy probably appreciated it too.)
Can't miss that baby blue anywhere.
Matt helping keep Andy going, good pacers are hard to come by. This is about 68 miles into the race. 3 to go!

Mario Kart 2010

2010-03-22T17:54:00.011-06:00

Just another lazy Sunday at the Beardalls. I should be able to say that what started as a 800 meter foot race challenge that turned into a human Mario Kart tournament to the death was unusual for us...but it's not. Not at all. It really was only a matter of time. Who needs a video game, honestly?

The challengers: these three yahoos. Andy the Long of Arm, Fred the Big of Foot, and Cole the Orange of Shirt. The rules: There are no rules. It pretty much was like the game, anything you find in your reach you are able to use to stop your opponents. Some examples used: water buckets, gravel, large blocks of wood, extension cords, shovels, dogs, and of course, banana peels. Pushing, biting, kicking, all allowed. Three grown men on those little rollers was more than hilarious. It's safe to say, the one with the most leg room won...this round. Yeah Cole!
But they weren't to be outdown by the women folk. I'd say all in all, we performed on a much higher level. Plus, Emily plays dirty. It's amazing I'm still alive.
The spectators were having just as much fun!

It didn't take long to progress to this point, coming into full character. If you don't know the Mario crew, then let me introduce you: this is Princess Peach, Bowser and Toad.

Oh the intensity!

Caught up in an extension cord. That was Peach's downfall.

Andy is cheating!!! No feet on the ground!

You know, I suppose I'm supposed to say that this was an unusual day at the Beardall's, but it's not. It's this or paintball wars in the hills (in full costume of course), or mud wrestling pigs in the field (hey, it's been a while since we did that!). Whatever comes next, don't worry, I'm sure I'll blog about it!

Yea, Here Comes Seven!

2010-03-22T17:13:00.007-06:00

We have three birthdays all within 30 days of each other at our house, so if the ol' blog here feels a little over birthday-ified, well, it is. But it's worth it. Especially since this time we are celebrating Ella! In preparation for her seventh birthday, Ella shot up three inches over night and lost all capability of eating her birthday cake. (That means she lost her teeth for those of you who don't get my humor.) In a nutshell, she is getting so big!!! As kids you get so sick of hearing that phrase, but as a parent you can't stop saying it.

She had a great day of playing, and partying at the Kangaroo Zoo and having birthday dinner at her favorite, Applebee's. She is such a sweet, sensitive girl and the most beautiful thing I have ever seen. But all that beauty is in front of some of the biggest brains out there, so watch out! My heart is just bursting with how lucky I am that she is mine. I love you Ella Bella!

Figuring out how to work her new kite. It is a March birthday after all.

Max is digging the wrapping paper.

So happy at Applebee's. I think she likes it here because she thinks it's the only place she gets Rootbeer.

There's One More 4 Year Old In The World

2010-03-13T10:54:00.008-07:00

It's strange to say this, but it feels like Zoe was three for a long time. That's because, by about 18 months old she could carry on a conversation as well as any three year old and has been trying to constantly keep up with her older sister ever since. But, as much as she has been promising me that she would stay three forever, it has come to an end and my baby girl is now the ripe old age of four. I made the mistake of informing her that she was born at night and "wasn't really 4 yet!" jokingly. She took it in all seriousness and informed everyone, all day long, "It's my birthday, but I'm still three!" That makes for very confused friends and teachers.

I love my little 4 year old so much. She is the sweetest, funniest, smartest little cookie around. The highlight of my day is her goodnight hugs. They are so tight it almost hurts and then she kisses, kisses, kisses until I have to make her stop so she can sleep. I love you this much, Zoe, to the moon and back! Birthday morning, not four quite yet!

Taking candles out of the cake. Trust me, our saliva covered candles are never recycled on other cakes....that I know of.

Cutting into another wonderful culinary creation of mine. She doesn't care, it's pink and that's all that matters.

Happy Birthday Andy

2010-02-25T22:55:00.010-07:00

You are about to see images of the most amazing birthday party in history. I have to say, I really out did myself with this one, but what can I say? My man deserves the best...
Birthdays are usually a huge deal at our house, but Andy was working on his big day. So we swung up to see him at the station, squeezing him in between school and piano lessons. The kids love going to his work, so it really was a party for them. I made him the most astoudingly beautiful cake you have ever seen, as you can see (he really is a lucky man to have such a talented wife.)
I know the day itself wasn't amazing, but the guy we were celebrating definitely is. Andy is an incredible dad and friend and husband. He is the smartest, funniest, kindest (and sexiest!) person I have ever met. We love him so much and are so glad that, despite how this one played out, he'll still be with us for a hundred more birthdays.

No wonder the cake turned out the way it did, look at the cook!

That's one lucky birthday boy!

Andy's second family....but which one is the wife? That's for you to decide.

Pete's reaction to our "Happy Birthday" rendition.

The girls love the "party guys" that their dad works with! This is Zoe with Jeff.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY ANDY!!!!!

Ultimate Jenga....You Can't Handle This

2010-02-08T13:41:00.010-07:00

This is how we spent SuperBowl Sunday at the Beardall house. Games are always involved, but this year it got serious. What you can't see, is that there is a bomb attached to the base of Jenga, making it a titch more intense for whoever makes it fall....

Andy always loves an adoring crowd when his life is on the line.

My nephew, Cole. Was that the bomb, or did Sarah fart as she walked by?

Laura is very excited that she isn't the one to blow up.

Fred is harnassing his inner 007 bomb defusing skills.

Thanks for the pictures Laura and Fred. You guys are "the bomb!"

My Powder Babies

2010-02-04T20:27:00.006-07:00

My kids are so lucky. They have a very a patient, loving dad who took each of them on separate daddy/daughter ski dates this week. And they are both so great at it. I've said it a million times to anyone who will listen, but they really are naturals. Even Zoe has such a wonderful time. The first time I went skiing I was 20 years old and can still get scared sometimes. I'm not horrible, but hey, in Utah, especially working in Park City, I might as well be a leper. So I am all about starting them young, before they get "the fear". And it works. I love that they love it. And I love Andy for taking them! Aren't they so cute?

Andy informed me, with a little chuckle, that Ella is now as good as I am. I should be offended. But I'm just proud.

Zoe with no edgie-wedgie! Yea!

Ella screamed at the bottom of a run, "This is the best day of my life!"

One For You, One For Me

2010-01-29T22:45:00.006-07:00

Greatest Snowman, Ever!

2010-01-24T18:54:00.005-07:00

She just needs "The 'Hey!' Song" playing in the background!

2010-01-19T22:51:00.003-07:00

I have had a job since I was 10. Delivered newspapers for years, cleaned the Post Office, different dairy queens etc. all through high school. I had a full time job from the moment I graduated high school up until the moment I had Ella. This made college very hard, but I did it because I loved working. I don't know how else to word that sentence. But I liked being great at a job. I loved the friendships you make with co-workers. The inside jokes that no one else in the world would find funny. Office parties, lingo, jargon, whathaveyou. So when the subject of kids came up, I first told Andy that I would still work...

After I finished my degree, I have worked one, two at the most, days a week. Sometimes not that much. I consider myself a stay at home mom, and never regretted it. But sometimes I think how much I miss having a part of my life that is just mine. Well, since December I have been working full time, just until next week. And I'm so glad I have been. Not for the reasons I listed above. Yes, it has been fun, working hard at something and being good at it. And actually getting to know my coworkers and making friends, instead of being "that one girl" whom no one can get to know because I'm never there.

But then I come home, and I see my kids sleeping... and I know that I missed an entire day of their lives. I missed hearing what Ella had for lunch and what Zoe made at preschool. I missed bathing Max and reading him a story. And it hurts my heart. I have been so lucky to be able to
stay home with them all this time, and see their ever growing moments that go so fast.

So I am glad I got to work so much this past while, because now I never have to miss it again. What I miss is here.

Why am I posting this? Sorry, but it's not for those who are reading it now. I don't have a journal (terrible, I know) so I am posting this for my kids. My beautiful children. So they can know I have no regrets or wild oats or anything in my life. I have only complete gratitude that I get to be their mom. I love you.

Just an old fashioned Christmas...Eve

2009-12-26T19:18:00.007-07:00

Both sides of our families are getting sooo big that holidays aren't just "get togethers", they're " "get-squished-as-close-as-you-can-so-we-all-have-a-place-to-sit togethers". This Christmas Eve was spent at my family's in Moroni and the entire clan was there. And since we left our camera at the aforementioned "get together", these are all of the Christmas pictures I have of this year...so enjoy!

Zoe and her cousin Ashlyn. There are 3 six year olds, a five year old, a four year old, 3 three years and 3 one year olds on my side. Needless to say, it's a NOISY party.

Cole and Andy. I won't tell you why Andy's hand is where it is, but there is a reason....

Baby Ryan went nuts for the wrapping paper. It was so cute.

Just a shot of the crowd.

Max had a break down with that many people. The ONLY person who calmed him down was Uncle Korey.

We always have plans to be home early for Santa to come, but that never happens. But its okay. The kids got to go sledding, we had good fun, and each year my dad tells the Nativity Story and the kids just love it. It wouldn't be Christmas if it wasn't hectic, would it?

Ella Won District Reflections

2009-12-18T11:00:00.009-07:00

I blanked out all the other names because WHO CARES? It's all about my kid, right?Sweet little bashful kid. She should be proud of herself.

(We obviously are.)

Pretty Blue eyes turn red in almost all light with our camera.

So, she wrote a great story about a mouse and she won out of all the elementary students in the school district.

They go K-4, 5-6, 7-8, 9-12 here.

I love Christmas music...I swear!

2009-12-16T13:49:00.005-07:00

OKAY, already! I am not a scrooge (Mom!)...I guess my anti- Christmas song list gave everyone the wrong idea. I LOVE Christmas songs and will prove it with a different list. Now, I am avoiding traditional hymn carols...because that wouldn't make it fair to the other songs. The "BEST" Christmas songs ever are:

1. Carol of The Bells (I personally prefer Kenny Rogers rendition, but any will do.)

2. Mele Kalikimaka

3. I Want a Hippopotamus For Christmas

4. Christmas On The Farm (I am fully aware no one will have heard of this one...but you Beardall's know what I'm talking about!)

5. Christmas Children (This is from the musical Scrooge, but there is a version out there that they play on the radio. Soooo beautiful.)

6. On This Day by Reba McEntire

7. Where Are You Christmas? (I think everyone will agree on this one.)

8. White Christmas (Not very original, but what is Christmas without Bing Crosby?)

9. Baby It's Cold Outside

10. 12 Days of Christmas as done by the Muppets!

And, last but not least

You're a Mean One, Mr. Grinch!

Now, if we were including carols, I would have at the very top "We Three Kings" done by Sarah McLachlan and the Bare Naked Ladies. It's my very favorite. Please let me know of any disagreements or additions!

Christmas Chaos

2009-12-14T19:39:00.011-07:00

Last Saturday we had the Avery Family Christmas party at our house. Andy has seven brothers, which makes for one big party. It was fun, though. Uncle Brian took all the cousins sledding, some kids performed musical numbers, and there was lots of food. Matt and Wes live out of state with their families, but they were there in spirit I'm sure. And, thankfully they don't sing carols the same way they sing "Happy Birthday."

Rob, Lauren, Candace, Grandpa Cardon, Angela, Zoe, Ella, James and Brandon in the back. Starting the cousin gift exchange.

Andy's dad needs a beard if he's going to play Santa!

Danny and the newest, cutest addition, Jackson.

Alex, James, Staci, and Zoe with her idol, Melissa.

Brian wearing the coolest pants ever.

Grandma Avery reading us a Christmas story.

'Tis the Season

2009-12-06T17:04:00.009-07:00

Every year, the fire dept. Andy works for throws a killer party for the kids. There's a magician and a balloon man, and of course, Santa. Usually Santa comes in on the AirMed helicopter and Mrs. Claus is with him. For weeks Zoe has been telling us that she would only sit on Mrs. Claus' lap, and she didn't want to talk to Santa. Why is it that at that age, they LOVE him but are scared to death of him at the same time? Anyway, Mrs. Claus didn't make it! I was worried for about 2 seconds, because that's all it took for her to run up and give him a hug. Awesome.

Santa used a fire engine this year, they didn't care. I love this picture.

Santa gives great presents at this party too. Max wanted Zoe's wrapping paper more than anything else.

Just some Christmas prep time pictures. How long before that tree gets pulled down by a dog, cat, or one year old??

I swear we have this exact same picture of all three kids at this age. Just different pajamas and a different cat.

P.S. I forgot the worst song OF ALL: Simply Having a Wonderful Christmas Time. Augh, the pain it causes my ears!

In The Spirit of Christmas...

2009-11-29T09:20:00.003-07:00

As Andy and I went to get a Christmas tree, we decided to nail down the top worst/most annoying Christmas songs...

1. "Mary Did You Know?" Of course she knew! The angel told her right to her face!
2. "Christmas Shoes" This could be a tie for first.
3. John Lennon's "So This is Christmas."
4. Bruce Springstein's "Santa Claus is Coming to Town." We counted...he says it 27 times in a row!!! Not cool, Boss.
5. Beach Boys, "Little Saint Nick."
6. Elvis' "I'll Have a Blue Christmas." (But not Willy Nielsons' version.)
7. The Mormon "12 Days of Christmas".
8. Mariah Carey's "All I Want for Christmas Is You."
9. "Santa Baby" Andy hates this song.
10.... Well, what's left?

The longest vacation ever comes to an end

2009-11-27T09:30:00.008-07:00

Yes, sadly, it was my birthday while we were gone. It was a great day, though. We headed over to Cocoa Beach (and of course forgot the camera.) Cocoa is the Atlantic Ocean, so it was completely different from the Gulf beach we were at before. But it was warm and it had these 10 foot waves that made it really fun. Ella finally got the guts to go in and had fun in the water, Zoe still stayed on the sand and Max tried diving head first into every wave.

Next we headed to SeaWorld. I've been to the one in California many times, and I do not remember being allowed to pet the dolphins! So Andy and I both got to pet them (and Ella cried because she couldn't reach). It gave me chills and was incredible!!!

Packed up to go home. Just a shot of the place we were staying. It was so nice.
Zoe as Ivan Drago, "I must break you!" I just thought it was funny.

So, after a long, maybe not relaxing, but at least fun vacation, I can say I have learned one thing... never forget to fill the gas tank before returning your rental car!

Almost done...

2009-11-24T19:12:00.012-07:00

Cutest "Wildlife" I ever saw!

It was cold and wet at the Animal Kingdom, but this place had some fantastic shows! Although, I have to say, I didn't really see that many animals. Hu.

Zoe in front of "Everest Expedition." A much new and improved version of the Matterhorn. It was such a fun ride!

Max laughing at King Louie.

Us with Thumper. I felt like we didn't do anything the entire time we were here because we were meeting characters ALL day. But this was the place to do it, no lines! That way we didn't spend time waiting in Disneyworld.

I Hate That Shirt!!...but am so glad he was wearing it!

2009-11-22T09:59:00.012-07:00

We finally gave our kids the Disney experience! We can't fake them out that "Lagoon" is Disneyland anymore! (Kidding, hello! I would NEVER do that!) I don't know about any of you other parents, but it was so surreal to be there with children of my own. The circle of life...right of passage...all that stuff...whatever it was, it choked me up quite a few times. Of course, the kids loved it. Max had it tough and was forced to learn how to sleep in a stroller and eat at odd times, but otherwise he did well and we were able to take him on almost everything. And with the "rider switch" passes, we didn't miss out on anything. We really learned how to work the system and hardly ever had to wait in any lines either, yea for fast passes!

This is my favorite picture of the entire trip. This is during the parade and they got their first glimpses of the princesses. They were so excited and happy!

We caved in and did breakfast with the princesses. My girls were so excited and in heaven. I took them while Andy and Max had "boy time" with Tom Sawyer. How butch!

OK, this T-shirt is sooo awful and he wears it to bug me. But, I never lost him in a crowd. A 6 foot 4 cookie monster is hard to miss!

Florida 140.6

2009-11-20T22:52:00.007-07:00

What It Was All For

Just to give some perspective, this picture was taken from half a mile away on our balcony. It is the starting line of the big race! That crowd itself is probably a half mile long. AND, they all started at once. It was insane to see!

I feel horrible I didn't get many pictures of the race. But look how good Andy looks! He's smiling that big when he's just finished a 2.4 mile swim and 112 mile bike and is starting his marathon! He even stopped to give us each a kiss as he ran by here. The entire crowd said, "Awwwww." :)

10 hours and 26 minutes! He did so awesome. Andy, I'm so proud of you! Thank you so much to Matt and Laura for helping me know where he was with your texts. You saved me.

Max and his medal. He did the race too.
I can't believe how good he was feeling when it was all done.

I know videos aren't the funnest to watch, but if you feel like it and can get past the crappy camera work...Just look at the crowds! It was like that everywhere, we couldn't move without stepping on people. By the end of the day I stopped apologizing when I hit people with my stroller.

Max Turns One!

2009-11-19T19:14:00.009-07:00

I think that the first year is the hardest but also goes by the fastest! Now he is walking and making up his own words (says "hi" clearly) and teasing his sisters and begging for airplane rides from his dad and always smiling with twinkling eyes (they really do twinkle!) but even though he is so much fun now, it makes my heart hurt that he is isn't my chubby little baby anymore.

His birthday was the day before the big race, so we were very chill. At the time we were in Panama City. He spent some time at the beach, which he loved, ate lunch on a pier, opened paper-towel-wrapped presents, and ate chocolate cake to his hearts content. It was different not being at home, but it will be very memorable, for us if not for him! We love you, Max!!!
Not too many presents, we couldn't pack them home! But he did get his first pair of shoes and it was fun watching him learn how to walk all over again.

We didn't have a high chair so he ate in his stroller while I held his plate for him. He's patiently waiting for more.

Good Bye Florida! Hello 27 Degree Utah!

2009-11-18T19:49:00.010-07:00

We're home! Birthdays, Races, Disney, Beaches...I can't believe so much happened in two weeks. Here are a few cute quotes and things I want to remember from the last vacation we'll ever take:

*Zoe to Ella, "I assume Max is excited for Disneyworld." Assume???

*The feel of Panama City Beach sand, like walking on powdered sugar.

*My baby boy's first birthday!!!

*Seeing Andy cross the finish line!

*Zoe and Ella's screams of pure joy riding "Thunder Mountain" during the fifth time.

*Teenage girl to dad and brother, "Indians aren't real. They're extinct... like the dinosaurs." Whaaat!

*Petting, not just touching, a dolphin!!!!!

*Zoe waving to every single "child" on "it's a small world."

*Seeing people scramble as a hurricane rolled in.

*Wheeling and dealing with the scalpers for tickets...that was all Andy. "You pullin' my leg??"

*Mob boss getting mad at Andy because he can't give him directions, "You ask me about where I live, I tell you everything!" Italian hand gestures included.

*The size of the waves on Cocoa Beach! Holy cow!

*The girls faces when they met "the princesses".

*Watching Disneyworld's and Epcot's firework show every single night from our balcony.

*Building an eternal bond with our GPS girl, which Zoe fondly named Helena.

Things that I definitely could have done without this trip:

~The plane ride there!

~Maneuvering my giant stroller through sand and crowds for 10 hours during Andy's race.

~Carrying a 30 lb baby and a 40 lb diaper bag for an hour through Disneyworld in a complete down pour of rain while I looked for Andy and my stroller. (I've never been so wet.)

~Being treated like a terrorist while doing the above by a Nazi Disney employee because I dared try to stay past 7 p.m. and was forced to leave the park without either husband or stroller. And yes, it was still raining.

~Dirty Dick's Crab House.

~My birthday

And most importantly...

~ The plane ride home. Thanks anyway "Doctor" Maria.

So, I'll be archiving our pictures and adventures over the next few blogs. There will be a lot of pictures and stories to tell. Try to keep up, will you?

Zoe digging the beach but not the water. She would wade but not much else.

Max was the opposite. He was diving in face first and cried any time we tried to save his life.

The view from our place in Panama City. Can you believe it????

Iron Dork

2009-11-03T20:21:00.003-07:00

Do me a favor and go to http://www.ironman.com/ on Saturday and put in number 449 on the athlete tracker.

Then stay glued to the computer as my times are updated each time I cross a "check point" or transition. Then, I'll feel your support and I'll swim, bike, and runner faster!

I start at 7am eastern and hope to finish 10 hours later.

Thanks, then.

Andy

Once upon a Halloween night...

2009-10-31T21:53:00.013-06:00

It happened one eerie Halloween night. The moon was casting it's silvery beams, lighting up the House of Avery in a spectral glow. The rhythmic pitter patter of goblin feet as they crunched through remnants of unraked leaves was like a pulsating heart of the night itself, giving it a life of its own, feeding off of fears the way the little spooks were feeding off candy. This is when the door to the House of Avery creeked open, exposing those standing inside to the hauntings of that night. Those inside were two beautiful girls, shaking with anticipation of what this night was to do to them. What was hiding in those blackest of shadows? What were the creeping noises behind them? The images of the unknown were terrifiying! Even so,they hesitated but a moment...and then they attacked that night!

Pre Trick or Treating poses. We never did get a costume for Max, so here he is in one that is 4T. :) He only had to wear it a little while, he was too tired to go out.

I love this picture!

I'm definitely not meant to be a blonde!

Zoe lasted about 45 minutes, not bad for a 3 year old. She had a hard time keeping up with Ella who would run from house to house. She finally gave up and came home with me and watched Ghostbusters. But Ella was an animal! Andy finally had to drag her home before 9. Look at that haul. Andy got on map quest and figured out that she walked 3 1/2 miles! What a fun night.

Halloween Prep Time

2009-10-29T11:41:00.009-06:00

For those of you out there who have been sitting on the edge of your seats, just dying to know what the Avery's have been up to next, well, I don't blame you. We are, by far, the most exciting family ever. So I apologize for keeping you waiting for our usual witty, enthralling and yet poignant posts that typically grace this page. I haven't had pictures up for a while because our camera broke. We have been taking "stills" from our camcorder, and they are not what you would call "quality". Despite this, for my own sake, I wanted to post our pre-Halloween hauntings, because it is our favorite time of year! Hopefully you can see through the haze...

We carved pumpkins while watching "Corpse Bride". The girls weren't too sqeamish to pull out their own "guts". I was very proud. And anyone that has driven by our house knows these pumpkins lasted all of three days before they became a moldy, withered blob of orange. Too bad too, they were our best yet.

Here's Max digging in and eating the pumpkin seeds. Pretty slimy! It's okay, he pooped them out later.

Decorating cookies at the UVSC carnival. Tinkerbell and a Garden Fairy.

Sir Chunks-a-lot here doesn't have much of a costume. Maybe we'll figure it out by the big day.

The girls showing off their painted faces with their buddy, Caroline. Such pretty girls!

Fall Leaves Explained

2009-10-19T12:40:00.005-06:00

Zoe's take on the fall leaves: "Maybe the wind is talking to the leaves, but the leaves don't understand what the wind is talking about. So the sky goes (whoooooshhh) at the leaves cuz it is mad cuz they won't talk back. The leaves say, "Ahhhh, run for your lives! The sky is going to kill us! Run for your homes!" And (zoom) they are running down the road." And that is why the leaves are blowing in the wind. They are running for their lives apparently.

Another Zoe quote: "Dear Heavenly Father, You are so lucky I love you. Good-bye."

Remember....

2009-10-18T11:35:00.002-06:00

I have come to the frightening conclusion

That I am the decisive element.

It is my personal approach that creates the climate.

It is my daily mood that makes the weather.

I possess tremendous power to make life miserable or joyous,

I can be a tool of torture or an instrument of inspiration,

I can humiliate or humor, hurt or heal.

In all situations, it is my response that decides

Whether a crisis is escalated or de-escalated,

And a person is humanized or de-humanized.

If we treat people as they are, we make them worse.

If we treat people as they ought to be,

We help them become

What they are capable of becoming.

~Goethe

Inspiration

2009-09-29T21:19:00.011-06:00

Andy had me read this great book Born to Run, by Christopher McDougall. This post is notgoing to be a book critique, but you have to understand the jist. It's about a 6'4'' big guy (um, Andy)who is getting beat to death from running (Andy again). No doctors are able to help him, so he begins to study the ancient Tarahumara people of Mexico (yes, like the restaraunt). These people are so incredibly fascinating!

They run for hundreds of miles at a time in nothing but bare feet or sandals and eat nothing but corn and chia (yes that kind of chia) and almost never get any injuries.

So Andy has started running barefoot and I bought him some chia. I also made fun of him for studying how Zoe runs and trying to copy her "technique".

(That's not dirt, it's blood blisters.)But then last night I finished the book and I had the strongest urge to go run 50 miles in bare feet. I wasn't making fun of Andy anymore (but still cringing at his blisters), that's how inspiring this book is. It made me stop making fun of my husband!!!Okay, so this did end up being a book critique, but it got me all psyched to talk about it. Go read it and go running.

Fire Mooses

2009-09-29T14:08:00.002-06:00

This family of moose hung out outside the station and then walked across the parking lot.

The bull caught me off guard. None of us knew he was there.

Firsts

2009-09-10T13:32:00.008-06:00

Oh that bittersweet taste of the first day of school. Will I ever get used to it? Ella has started the first grade and is enjoying all the priveleges and respect that come with it, such as recess on the big kids playground, lunch in the cafeteria, and is at last given the most high honor of "homework." First grade!!! She's in class with her best friend, she gets to ride her bike to school, life couldn't be better. As she left that first day she ran into the school with absolute joy on her face and not a single look back....

She wasn't the only one headed to school this year. Zoe's first day of preschool was yesterday. My baby is so grown up! She picked out every item of clothing she wore and told me exactly how to do her hair ("Two piggy tails right here.") She later told me, "That teacher was so nice, I couldn't believe my eyes!" She left me standing on the doorstep of her preschool with that same 'I don't need you anymore' feeling that I had with Ella. No crying or cowering, she dove right in. It would be nice if they pretended they would miss me.

Strawberry

2009-09-10T10:07:00.007-06:00

Hiking with just Dad is always the best way to go. There's a stream? Just go through it. There's mud? Who cares, get muddy. With Dads, things are always a little messier, a little funner.

P.S. Is "funner" a word? It looks funky.

Ella is a list maker. She took her notebook with so she could make a list of the things she saw. I wonder who she got that from. (Hint: It's not me.)

2009-08-27T22:23:00.005-06:00

Day one of Andy's "staycation" we packed up very spur-of-the-momentish and headed up the Uintahs to hike Bald Mountain. I was thinking we were headed to a nice little trail and a picnic in the woods. Wow. A little bit wrong there. But my girls headed up that extremely steep, loose rocky trail and were so excited [almost] the entire time. At one point Zoe sighs a huge sigh and says "I can't take it any more, Mommy." It took me a sec to realize she was quoting a movie, and not actually put out by the hike. Andy and I both got a touch of elevation sickness it went so high so fast. Once up there though, the view was fantastic. We were higher than Timpanogos! Crazy. (Hint: Never go on a this hike without licorice. We would have died without it. Max may have even gotten some...don't tell.)

Ella and Max. She thought it was funny the "Christmas" trees were so tiny. We explained it was because there was no air up there for them...or us!

Just a tiny glimpse of how steep the trail was.

The girls didn't make it quite to the top. We stopped on this ledge and Andy hurried up the last small steep climb that the rest of us had no desire to make. I'm counting this as close enough. Even Fez was beat.

My Cat is Weirder Than Your Cat

2009-08-27T22:03:00.007-06:00

Whether you're a cat person or not, you have to admit that this is funny. Our recent addition, Daisy, loves bathrooms. First of all, she hears you turn on the water in the sink/tub and comes running. She sticks her paws and nose in the water the whole time your using it. She's gotten a glob of toothpaste on top of her head more than once. Her favorite place to sleep? IN the sink. When I go to bed at night I have to fill one sink in the house with water for her to play in. (Yes, she has a water dish, I'm not retarded.) And lastly and most weirdly, she drinks out of the toilet. Disgusting, I know. My 100 lb. dog doesn't drink out of the toilet. But what is even stranger is that she sees them as HER toilets. When I go in to "borrow" the toilet, she comes running and tries to shove me off of it! Needless to say, I freak out if she ever touches me with wet paws.

It's a shaky video, but I can't believe how these two play together. Fez is just a little bit bigger than her.

El Jardin, Part III: The Finale

2009-08-09T18:05:00.002-06:00

Ta-Dah!!!

Cross your fingers we don't get cancer from these! (See Part II)

5 K 9

2009-08-04T09:31:00.001-06:00

So it was Sarah's turn to do an event a few weks ago while I wrestled the littl'uns. Hardly seemed like a fair trade off, she and Fezzik smoked the Friends of Animals 5k in like 20 minutes. It was cool to see all the hippies and their dogs.

And on the 4th she and the kiddos came up and rode the old Fire engine in the parade. I was in a Mexican ambulance, so it really just ended up as a pain in the butt for her. AGAIN. Good thing she likes me, huh? I'm a lucky man.

Lava Hot Springs

2009-07-31T10:27:00.008-06:00

Lava Hot Springs...what can I say about you? The cleanliness of your pools was questionable. The company you keep is seedy. The smell of your campsite was nauseating. But the time you gave me with my family was wonderful.
We headed to Lava after the Spudman and stayed for two nights. The girls were scared of riding down the river and Zoe cried the whole way. Ella was tougher, but not tough enough to try it again. They loved the water park, even though they didn't do anything there that they couldn't have done in their own bathtub. That's not true...after much pleading and bribing with a "Barbie Diamond Castle" DVD, Ella finally went down the slides and discovered she liked it! We all came home nice and crispy and oh so tired!

Look at Max peeking out. He stood up all by himself in the raft! You can't tell, but he's buck naked!

I Love My Spudman!

2009-07-30T20:19:00.007-06:00

Saturday was the great Spudman Tri and it ended up being a last minute family vacation in the motorhome. Andy, of course, did amazing. Third place in his division, the fastest bike time, and won a coveted Spudman potato trophy!!! He says this is the last year he's doing it, but I personally don't think he can stop until he gets a First Place. (Which was soooo close to happening this year!)

Doesn't he look great in spandex?

This was the only family picture we got the entire trip. Yes, Max is in there, just look harder.

People, this is what we call "T2", or "transition two" to you non-tri-geeks. It's really the only chance we get to see Andy during the actual race. (Turn your sound down, there's lots of screaming! Sorry!)

Should I Be Flattered?

2009-07-20T09:04:00.002-06:00

Poo. Yeah, that's right. I said it. In fact, I say it a lot. It seems like every aspect of my life seems to revolve around it. Being parents of young children, and albeit incredibly immature, it seems to be one of our main dinner conversation topics. "Hey, Max had blueberries today so guess who had purple poo?" Color, consistency, time delay, whatever. It's all up for grabs. And, as a nurse, my job deals with every imaginable body substance, poo being one of the least disgusting. So yesterday at work I am cleaning this "stuff" up for the fourth time, and... (I'm sorry, but details are necessary right now) and since it is from a patient in a C-collar,who can't move and with tons of equipment, it was an especially complicated procedure. Half way through, the nurse helping me says, "You're really good at this."......Ooookay? Should I be flattered? Sure, why not. It is after all my expertise. Some people excel in sports, music, poetry. Me, my talent is poo clean up. So, after a day full it, you have one guess to what Max greeted me with when I got home! I'll tell you one thing, it wasn't roses.

Hey, sorry for all the "POTTY" humor!......(Wow. I'm hilarious.)

Return Service Requested

2009-07-10T10:06:00.002-06:00

I am sending a request out to one and all,....I am desperate for a good book! If you know me at all you know I have to be reading one, two or three books at a time and I am sick of reading through my collection for the 200th time. ( I have to read myself to sleep, or...I just don't sleep.) Yes, of course I go to the library, but what to pick? I want everyone who reads this to give me ideas, please please please. Any genre, any author, any length, whatever. (Just no Tom Clancy, I hate Tom Clancy.) My sleep depends on you...

Boise Ironman 70.3

2009-06-16T09:42:00.020-06:00

We headed on up to the Potato State last weekend for some taters and a little racing on the side. For those that need reminding, this race was a 1/2 Ironman: 1.2 mile swim, 56 mile bike, and a 13.1 mile run.... Yeah. This race was unreal. 1500 people!! The bikes alone took up a full city block. And all of them die hard racers. We've never been to a venue like this, where none of them are there just to have fun and no "do it just to say I did" types. Intimidating. As you all know, the weather has been a tad wet lately, so we all held our breath that morning until the starting gun shot. Yea! They didn't cancel it! That doesn't mean it didn't rain...hardly. More on that later. His swim was great. The waves were over a foot tall and person after person kept getting towed in on the jet skis, but not my man. He finished great and killed on the bike.(How does one get out of a wet suit and into bike gear in 2 minutes?) Did I mention it was raining? He said at one point it was so bad he couldn't see...of course that doesn't mean he slowed down. The kids were so great while we stood at different points along the course to cheer him on. This is a really long day for them, even without having to do it soaking wet. At one point a nasty lady says to me, "They really need to be under an umbrella." As she stood there with her over sized umbrella covering her pointed head. So I punched her in the face and stole hers and we were dry after that... But I hadn't thought about preparing us for rain, I had just worried about Andy in it. The race finished in downtown Boise, which was really different and fun and a great big party (for everyone but the one pushing a stroller and carrying a 3 year on her back and trying to get a 6 year to "hold it" so she wouldn't pee her pants....in the rain.) But I'm being sarcastic, not complaining (anymore) because it was worth it when he finished soooo well! 4 hours and 57 minutes, beating his last one by over half an hour!!!! (That's a big deal, if you didn't know.) 1500 racers, 100 of them professionals. Andy finished 18th in his division and I don't remember all the numbers, but I think it ended up being 99th overall. Out of 1400!! (Professionals don't count.) Way to go Andy! Kona here we come!

Coming out of the water! (Is that a GIRL behind you, Andy?) ;)

Copping a squat under a tree to eat a hotdog. The tree was the best umbrella I could find. They didn't care! What troopers.

Zoe spent a lot of time here singing in my ear for me. My glasses needed windshield wipers!

Not too wet yet. Poor Max didn't nap all day.

Okay, I know this is sideways, I don't know why, but you see that incredibly long, steep, gravely road? Try pushing a stroller up that! It was a mile long. This was how we got up to the lake. Good thing there were port-a-potties at the top!

A family who trains together

2009-06-02T22:12:00.005-06:00

Hi, I'm Andy. Today I dragged my family over to Deer Creek to practice for race day. Sarah made the kids a little picnic and they ate while I swam around "the island."

Sarah started my watch for me (its water proof, but I don't want to find out if that's really true) and I got it when I was done. Thats the big plan for race day. Then I can use it on the bike and run. So today, when I was finished swimming and out of my wet suit, I ditched my wife and kids (yet again) and rode my bike the long way home. It was a good practice. I think I'll count it as a family home evening.

Plus just look at the visual blog fodder. What a great family I have. (apologies to the dog who was not invited)(and the cat - yes, we have a cat now. wanna see pictures? do ya?)

We're Not Dead Yet!

2009-05-26T13:12:00.009-06:00

Our 8 year anniversary was May 11th and Andy completely surprised me with tickets to No Doubt. LOOOVE them!! Always have. I was so excited, plus we had floor seats which I had never had before. The show was fun, we hung out with some friends, got to spend time with my man without kids around, it was great. But everyone around us in the pit was so boring. I had been worried about being old farts in a group of young teenagers, but we showed them! Andy and I had a blast, he lifted me on his shoulders at parts and we were really close to the stage. Gwen Stefani is hot! She even got Andy to yell "I'm Just a Girl!" Well, during the encore they played my favorite song, "Sunday Morning" and it was great, and then Gwen started to crowd surf. The crowd together shoved to get to her, and there was no way we would reach. So my incredibly strong husband just threw me on top of the crowd with her! I was crowd surfing! At my age! With Gwen Stefani! I'm so embarrassed and proud at the same time. But that isn't the cool part. Gwen saw me and reached and I reached and finally we locked fingers tips for one second! How cool is that!!!! I know many may think I should act my age, but it was so much fun, and in my worry of growing old and boring at the ripe old age of 30, I realized....(enter English accent here)... "I'm not dead yet!"

Andy, you're the best! I love you so much! Thank you for being the best moshing partner ever!

We definitely weren't the oldest people there. This lady was 80 at least, and she could groove! She was only about 6 or 7 rows from the stage and holding her own! (Please look at her and not me, I look freaky.)

The Thrills Never Stop!

2009-05-23T13:19:00.008-06:00

* Ella lost her first tooth! The excitement of the Tooth Fairy was more than she has for Santa.
* Max got his first tooth! It's like they traded.
* Zoe coined her new phrase, "For reals. I'm not kidding!" Which she uses for everything.
* Max is sitting up, rolling over, eating baby food and grabbing at EVERYTHING. I love it. His favorite thing to do is rummage through the desk drawer while I am blogging.
* Zoe is getting over her Max jealousy and started "going potty" on her own again. What a relief.
* Zoe started riding (kind of) her first "big girl" bike with training wheels.
* Ella went on her first field trip with a bus and everything. The most exciting part was getting to take a sack lunch!
* Ella is finishing kindergarten this week, I can't believe it.
* Andy is training like a dog. Two races down, many more to go. The next being the 1/2 Iron Man in June.
* I quit my job at Timp Reg. after 4+ years. Very bittersweet.
* I started a new job at the University of Utah floating in their ICUs. Andy played Mr. Mom while I had to orient ALL week long and I found out they really don't need me here;)
* Andy and I had our 8 year anniversary! (Love you, babe!!)

and, finally,

* The garden is still not done.....

El Jardin, Part II: The Destruction

2009-05-15T20:14:00.009-06:00

Apparently it is a well known fact that railroad ties are covered in creosote. Okay, fine. So what? Apparently, again, this creosote causes cancer. Isn't it so fun that my beautiful garden, that Andy had spent endless hours of sweat and blood on, was lined with this stuff? We debated and debated, because EVERY garden has railroad ties, but when it comes to our kids, I just couldn't bring myself to feed them carincogenic carrots. As a result, the solidly rebarred ties were dug up and out. Andy took care to cause as little disturbance as possible to my precious seeds, bless him, but will this garden ever be done? He spent the entire day redoing the border with redwood, and, as you can see, it looks gorgeous. But now we have a foot of empty space all around the edges! The dirt just BARELY got off my driveway, after three weeks of moving it one wheelbarrow full at time, I'm not getting more! Plus, I think the dirt we bought is bad, it isn't FUN to work in. Se la...to be continued again...

The HOPEFULLY almost finished product

Attention: No pepper plants were harmed in the making of this garden.

I've Never Been This Tired

2009-05-15T20:08:00.002-06:00

Authentic Princess Dress with Matching Tiara: $15

Royal Porcelain Toilet: $80

A New Venue For Sleeping Beauty: Priceless

Gimme That Duck!

2009-05-04T10:42:00.003-06:00

You gotta love bathtub pictures, and this is, quite frankly, the cutest one ever. Plus, check out the rolls on this boy! Max has been sitting on his own for two days, so this is is first upright bath. It was a whole new ball game, and, as you can see, he loved it! If he could only keep a hold of that duck...

Stick it!

2009-05-03T17:29:00.008-06:00

The girls had a gymnastics meet yesterday and I missed it! Darn that need for a pay check, but Andy braved the storm of a hungry baby and a torrent of wild kids. They do so awesome, the right teachers make all the difference. Check out the technique on these girls...Olymics 2012 here we come!

You have to see this video! It's just so stinkin cute! (Try to ignore a hungy crying Max in the background.)

El Jardin, Part I

2009-04-23T10:47:00.012-06:00

When we were trying to find a new house, Andy asked me what I HAD to have in a home. One of the top items was a place for a large garden. So here he is, making my dream a reality. And I just want to say, who knew a minivan could hold 8 rail roads ties?

Last fall, the grass was cleared away. You can't tell, but it's on a pretty steep hill.

After many hours of measurements and cutting of the ties, it's starting to look like a garden. He has to stack the ties higher down low to compensate for the hill. What a pain.

The border is not quite done, but we have to get the dirt we bought into the garden before it rains.

Who knew a pile of dirt could be so sexy? And I may or may not have forgotten it was there as I backed out of the driveway. (Hence the tire marks.) Oops!

To be continued.....

Goblin Hunting

2009-04-13T11:30:00.019-06:00

Anyone who has taken a baby camping had better sympathize with me today. It's HARD! But totally worth it when I see how excited everyone is to be out there in the dirt and grass. Ella and Zoe start bouncing off trees when we go camping, they are that excited. So this week we headed down south and camped in Greenriver State Park (okay, so we were basically in a golf course, it was still camping.) and then down to Goblin Valley the next day. Ella's a list maker. She had her list of what to bring and one of everything that had to be done while we were there, right down to the "spooky stories by the campfire." ("But make sure they are funny at the end.") During the stories, Zoe said, "Daddy, I'm scared of the spooky trees. They look like my hand." And she showed him a claw hand. Yes, they did look like that. Max and I slept in the van, thinking it would be easier. WRONG. He was so scared and screamed like I had never heard him scream before. I had to hold him on my chest the entire night, so no sleepies for me. I couldn't wait for day to come.

The next day we made it to Goblin Valley in beautiful weather. If you have never been there, you should really go. It is so cool. I've been before, but never with kids, and it was crazy how much the loved it. They hiked and climbed and pointed out "goblins" until they couldn't keep their eyes open, and even then they wanted to keep going. Once we got home, Zoe says to us, "I smell like a ladybug!" We asked her if that was good. She said, "No, it's so stiinnkky!" Well, we all smelled like ladybugs. And we were all so stuffed with RedVines that we'll probably poop red for a week. WORTH IT!

My two favorite goblins!

A video of Ella and Zoe going through a rite of passage....helping Dad put up the tent!

Beautiful Disaster Averted

2009-04-11T14:09:00.007-06:00

Zoe screams bloody murder at the suggestion of sitting in a sled. Even to be pulled along the yard, no hills involved. So you can imagine my hesitancy when Andy suggested taking her skiing. I figured a "beautiful disaster" would be inevitable. I am still reeling from the shock of her absolutely loving it! Max and I sat warmly in the lodge at Deer Valley last Wednesday and watched as time and again Ella came zooming down (completely on her own) and Zoe followed, with her dad and a huge smile on her face, and wanting to go again and again. My kids are so much braver than I ever have been. What I wouldn't given for some of that fearlessness. Of course, when it comes time for them to drive, that very fearlessness better disappear quick!

Taking a granola bar break. They were hot from all that exercise!

That's Ella riding by herself in the background. Pretty, hu?

Race to Las Vegas

2009-03-30T10:43:00.008-06:00

Another triathlon season has begun, and it came in with a bang! We spent the weekend out of this freezing cold weather and went to 75 wonderful degrees in Las Vegas to watch Andy race. The race was at Lake Las Vegas, in Henderson, and it was so gorgeous. We drove down from St. George where we had been relaxing the day before with my sisters and got there an hour + before the race and this guy tells him we're too late to check in, he can't race. People don't tell Andy "no". Especially with his new hair-do, they should be too scared! After a few minutes of panicking, they let us in. Andy's brother, Matt, his wife, Nicki and their kids Matti and Nick drove an hour and half to come cheer him on, which was so great. It was the prettiest venue we've been to, lots of grass and shade for the kids and perfect weather. And it was one of the funner ones to watch, because people actually cheered the racers on! I can't explain why, but in Utah, the spectators usually just stare as people make their way across the finish line, and only cheer on their loved one. It's so lame. The cheering here really pumped everyone up. The race was tense a couple of times because my man had a few small directional inconveniences (he went the wrong way!) but despite those, he came in 6th overall, and 1st in his age group!!! He is so amazing. He is training mode for his IronMan Tri in Florida this November, so to him this was just practice. Imagine how great he'll do when it's more than "practice". The only downfall of the day was when I set Max on a table in his carseat, and when I turned my back the whole table tipped over and he hit his head on a cast iron chair! I think I cried harded than Max did, and put quite a show on for the people eating outside at the next door cafe.
Well, Andy probably won't be happy with my description of the race, he can tell split times and distances and all of the technical stuff that actually matters, but all I can tell you is how proud of him we are. That's MY man!

Nicki, Matti, Zoe, Nick, Ella, and Matt (sorry for the cut-off). Andy should be coming by any second!

This is a very important picture, notice how many other bikes are there when Andy finished his bike part of the race!!!!

If you look close you can see Andy on the other side of the lake, the little white dot running along the lake, right in the middle. Isn't it pretty!

Hanging out at a plaza fountain, waiting for the results.

Ella Turns Six!

2009-03-24T09:58:00.006-06:00

Another birthday! Ella and Zoe's birthday's are only 6 days apart which makes for a very busy week every March. We couldn't very well tell Ella she couldn't have a party since she hand-made invitations back in October and gave them out. She's been telling us for MONTHS if so-and-so is coming to her party. And since she had already given out invitations to every girl in her class, it made for one full house of girls. 16, actually. She had a great time, but the funniest part of the whole day was Ella being so grown up. Every girl that came to the door was greeted with, "Hi [Tiffany], come on, let me show you around." And was quickly given a tour of the house. EVERY girl! It was cute. And then when everyone was there (she wouldn't start anything until they all were there) she seperated them into church friends and school friends. Then she had them line up and introduced everyone. What 6 year old does that??? It was all a little too much for Zoe. She's so used to keeping up with Ella that when she got lost in the fray she became pretty overwhelmed with it all, the poor thing. But all in all, I think we survived unscathed. We have been birthday central lately and, I don't know about you, but I could sure do with a nap!

I miss the days where I could be entertained by a good game of Duck Duck Goose!

Blessings and Birthdays

2009-03-15T19:05:00.022-06:00

We had quite the day at our house last Saturday. First of all, Zoe became an official "big girl" by turning the ripe old age of three! It was something she has been so excited about, but that I have been dreading for 365 days. Can't they stay little for just one second!!?? But we also took that day to bless Max. I really liked doing it on a Saturday in our home, it felt more relaxing but the Spirit was still strong and it was a wonderful feeling to have all those preisthood holders in our home. There were fifteen men in our baby's circle! And a total of 53, yes 53! people in our house. And that was immediate family only. (So please don't feel bad if you are reading this and we didn't invite you!) Amazingly, it was very nice. Not chaotic or too overwhelming, it was perfect! We tried really hard not to take away from Zoe's birthday, so she basically had a party with 18 cousins. Plus, hallelujah, I couldn't have asked for a prettier day. So I will use this page to thank everyone that came and helped with food and for helping to make such a special day for our family.

Four Generations! My grandma, Anna Backus, Max, me and my mom, Carol Beardall

Digging into one of many cupcakes.

So, I think Zoe may have had a big day. She fell sound asleep in the middle of her second bite of dinner. It's still in her mouth!

I loved this picture. Earl and Anna Backus, my grandparents and my niece Teagan and Max. It isn't too often you can catch my grandpa smiling for a picture.

Many of you may know how beautifully the Avery family sings. Well, birthday's are an exception. They sing as AWFUL as possible. I don't know why! And, how kind of him, Andy has passed this tradition on to my family. So here are both families singing "Happy Birthday" for all to experience!

Max with cuz, Shamri, the best babysitter ever!

Just a couple candid shots of the crowd!

Thanks again!

Snotty Bananas

2009-03-12T10:26:00.005-06:00

So the other day Zoe asked for a banana and promised once again to eat the entire thing. After she abandoned the thing after nibbling off the top ( Not that I blame her. Bananas have the same texture as snot.) I hated to waste it and decided to try out Max on eating. So this is my baby boy eating his first food, and no it didn't make the cut, but he had fun trying!

"Get that out of my face!"

"Oh, that's what I'm supposed to do!"

"Mom, you're doing it wrong. It's supposed to be like this."

He just turned four months old, and since he weighed 18.4 lbs you would think I had already started feeding him steak. We'll try the old stand by rice cereal after this.

Deer Valley with Dad!

2009-03-06T09:18:00.004-07:00

Ella went skiing with her dad yesterday and I wanted to share the adorable pictures. Andy first took her when she just turned three, and she is a natural! I love that she gets so excited about it. The video at the bottome made me cry because she is so awesome!

Ah La Peanut Butter Sandwiches!!

2009-03-04T18:44:00.008-07:00

So, I used to be able to do stuff. And I don't just mean jumping on a trampoline without peeing my pants kind of stuff. I love my children so much, but I am quickly finding myself lost in a world of sticky fingers and runny noses, with dirt and other stuff between their toes-es. Again, to clarify, as much as I love the sticky stuff, I want to know where I lost my other passions along the way. Cause, beleive it or not, I was awesome. Oh yeah. I won't get into the long list of my awesomeness, so as not to intimidate, but I miss that stuff! And I was funny! As impossible as that might be to imagine, I remember being funny! And passionate and exciting and spontaneous. All adjectives that have been lost in my self made definition of "mom". Why? Why did I let them go, and can I get them back? I would not trade one second of my time with any of my kids for anything (okay, lets be honest. I would trade some of the potty training seconds for a peanut butter sandwich. And I hate peanut butter sandwiches) but I want them to know that their mom is not always a red eyed banshee who can do other things besides yell "Stop doing that." I want to mesh who I am with who I was. Is that even possible? Or would it just make one ugly, mushy peanut buttery sandwich. I could handle that, like I said, I love the sticky stuff.

From the Pen of Babes

2009-03-04T15:35:00.001-07:00

Think we need much?

Happy Birthday, Andy!!!

2009-02-22T18:32:00.009-07:00

It's Andy's birthday, shout hurray! He is the big 3-2, and my oh my, the years have been kind. So the girls helped me put together a list of the top 32 reasons why our dad, husband, personal gymnasium, personal coach and best friend is the absolute best:

32. He takes all of the garbages out as soon as they're full!

31. His stories are always super funny. (Ella)

30. He makes the best "bskedy".

29. His piggy back rides are the funnest. (Ella)

28. Because of the way he looks in his firefighter uniform!!!! (Me)

27. Because I love him so much! (Zoe)

26. He is the smartest person I have ever met, he is my own personl PDR.

25. He bought nipple diapers (nursing pads) for me without me even telling him I was out, he just knew!

24. He read the first chapter of "Twilight" when I asked him to, just so I'd have someone to talk about it with. (That's love!)

23. He remembers every birthday of every person he ever met. If you are reading this, guaranteed on your birthday he says to me, "Hey, its so-and-so's birthday today."

22. For randomly starting dinner without me even asking him to.

21. For emptying the dishwasher when its clean.

20. He changes dirty diapers without blinking an eye.

19. Have you seen his arms?

18. For being able to play the guitar and sing.....swoon!

17. For being so strong.

16. For being so gentle.

15. He is so romantic and doesn't ever need a reason.

14. He wasn't mad when I scratched our 3 day old car!

13. For walking the dog in the middle of the night in below zero weather.

12. He gets so excited about putting up Christmas lights, and it always looks awesome.

11. He makes a wonderful "king" and is always ready to waltz with Zoe the princess.

10. He never hesitates to jump up and play whenever and whatever the girls want him to.

9. For telling me I'm beautiful at 8 in the morning when I'm in my robe with lines still on my face from my pillow.

8. He remembers all my favorite foods, flowers, movies, songs...everything.
7. For actually being excited about taking three girls camping.

6. He makes banana pancakes for us!

5. For his strong testimony and love of the gospel.

4. He always includes us in his plans for his triathlons.

3. For always being willing to get up with the baby at 1:30 a.m. (or 3:00 a.m. or 4:00 a.m. or 5:00 a.m. .......)

2. His family comes first over everything, and we know how much he loves us.

1. Because he's my best friend! (Ella) Me too! He's mine! (Zoe) Me too! (Me) Ahhoooow (Translates to "mine too" from Max).

I love you, Beary-bay! You really are the greatest everything and we are so lucky to have you. I hope you have a wonderful birthday!

Death to the Smoke Detector!!

2009-02-16T10:56:00.006-07:00

Sometimes, not often, I do stupid things. Okay, it's pretty often. But this is one I wanted to remember, because it will be up there on the inside joke list for future Beardall vacations to come...Purification!

Last year my family spent a few days at Bear Lake. We rented this great cabin, really beautiful with about 20 foot vaulted ceilings to give room for huge windows with gorgeous views. All very nice. Until the second night...By this time I am exhausted. Playing all day, staying up extremely late with the fam and waking up super early to start it all again as soon as possible. Well, this night, I am lying in bed when I hear a voice in the darkness! Scared the crap out of me, and it had the strangest message too..."Low Battery" it warned me in an ominous voice. Followed by repeated chirps every 10 seconds for one minute and then ANOTHER warning, "Low Battery". You ask how I know the timing, 10 seconds vs. 15, who could tell? I could, because I listened to it for two hours straight. Could no one else hear it? I was going crazy, nothing could drown it out! So I tiptoed into the hall, and the life saving piece of @#%! was at the tippy top of the 20 foot ceiling!!! Not only that, but I could hear others! I went through the cabin and found the second fire alarm, just outside my parents room and right next to Jenny and Marc sleeping on the couch. I was going to do them a favor and turn theirs off. I climbed on a chair and pushed what I thought was the "silence button" when an ear splitting alarm resounded through the whole house! Surprisingly, only a few awoke. (It's about 4:00 a.m. at this time.) And the dang thing wouldn't shut up. I took this alarm, which I couldn't turn off, outside and but it in my mom's car! Smart? I thought so. One down, two to go. Together, my mom, Marc and I went to the basement where the rest of the family was sleeping and, joined by Fred, expiramented on a third alarm. Again, ear splitting wails that we quickly turned off, but not the deathly chirp and voice. This one went outside on the balcony. Some of you might ask, "Where is your fire fighter husband in all of this? Wouldn't HE know how to turn them off." Well, this is when I went to get him. He was sleeping soundly on the balcony, missing all of the not so much fun. (He does that. Sleep outside, I mean.) He called the office of the cabin where a maintenance man would meet him (about 2 miles away) after the m. man woke up, dressed and drove over there. So Andy headed out while I sat on a couch and stared at the devilish alarm. A few minutes later, he was back! That was fast. Well, he had gone to a construction site next door and stolen one of their HUGE ladders and just brought it on over in the middle of the night. He and Marc maneuvered the enormous thing up the stairs and the maddness finally came to an end. Or so I thought...
The next day after breakfast I went to find Andy. He had gone on a bike ride when a thunderstorm hit. I jumped in my mom's car and headed out. Too late to remember..."chirp". I couldn't get away from it. I shoved my nemesis under my butt to muffle it and cursed it the entire ride until I found Andy (of course he was fine) and went back. Now I was safe and sound in the quiet cabin. I went into my room only to hear the muffled chirp! Fred! I knew my brother in law had hidden it somewhere. I tore my room apart, the mattress was thrown on the floor, suitcases ripped apart!!! I spent the day going crazy looking for it, to this day I still don't know where he hid it. He denies doing it, but I don't believe that for a second.

Zoe Anne Avery

2009-02-05T10:11:00.034-07:00

Oh, my blue eyed trouble maker, what did we ever do without her? Our little Zoe is a two year old like no other. She came into this world on her own terms, and she has definitely kept it that way! For those who don't know, Zoe was born frank breach, which at the time was really scary, but now we know, it was just because she wanted to do things her own way . It took quite a few months for her legs to come down from her face because of this, but hey, she'll be a great gymnist because of it, right? She was so chubby, with oodles of rolls and a perfectly round face. She had this skiff of blond hair that stood straight up so Ella called her "Fuzzy Headed Goose." Weird, but so dang cute. Sometimes, the second child is more quiet, lets the older sibling speak for them, etc. Not in her case. We had another mover and a shaker. She walked at 9 months and was carrying on conversations at 18 months. People constantly would ask, "How OLD is she?" when she would walk up to them and start jabbering. They still ask that because it hasn't stopped, her words have just gotten bigger. Her current phrase is..."It's possible." Yes, she is only two. She has constantly been keeping up with Ella, and doing a mighty fine job. And she loves her older sister so much, she cried harder than I did when Ella went to Kindergarten. She is another devoted animal lover, and even as a baby, was so gentle. She would and does speak softly to them and pet sweetly. Never grabbed cats tails or anything like that. As you can see from the picture, she loves her dog, Fezzik. She is the most imaginative child I have ever met. And oh so talented...did you know she has the ability to morph from a butterfly to a mermaid to Dora in a matter of seconds? Let's see you do that! She also speaks fluent "kitty." She is always telling stories and here is one for you to play and experience, although it really issomething to see in person :) Sheloves to go on adventures. This is a common conversation, "Mom, Ella won't go on an adventure with me." "Ella, go on an adventure with Zoe." She is the sweetest thing. "Mommy, I LOVE you! I do! Do you love me?" And she has the best hugs you have ever experienced, honestly. You have to have one of these hugs. Full body around the neck as hard as she can sqeeze to show you all that love, and ALWAYS accompanies it with a huge kiss, boogery nose or not (I'm sorry about that Andrea!) I hope my hugs show her how much I love her, the way hers do. Just looking at this little girl makes my heart burst with how lucky we are! I LOVE you Zoe, I do!

Ella Cherie Avery

2009-02-04T11:16:00.019-07:00

I wanted to sit down and write up a post on each of our beautiful kids, and I'm going to start with my sweet Ella, share some of my favorite pictures (which I had to painfully edit because there were so many!)and tell all about her. This will be long, but it is more for me and for Ella to look back on.

Ella was so beautiful, with wide staring eyes and her bald head (that remained that way until she was almost two!) She was crawling at 8 months old and walking before 10 months, and I can't remember a time when she wasn't talking. I think one of her first words was "alright" because that was her answer to everything. The OCD kicked in early. Before she was even a year old she was lining her stuffed animals up in a perfect lines, biggest to smallest and would freak out if you moved them. That hasn't changed much. She wasn't into princess stuff like other little girls, she was obsessed with Dorothy from "The Wizard of Oz." I think she wore her Dorothy costume for a whole year straight, and she was Dorothy for Halloween three years in a row. Oh, she is so smart! She finished Learning Dynamics Preschools' entire reading program in 4 months and is now reading 2nd grade level books. She did her masters thesis on the effects of fossil fuels on our economy and is up for this years Nobel Prize in physics. Keep your fingers crossed! I know every mother says this, but she is so good at everything she does. She took tap and a little ballet and was so good at it, keeps right with the rhythm, does all the steps, but she doesn't like it. She likes gymnastics, mostly the "balance beam". She gets so excited to go camping, just mention it to her and she starts jabbering and telling us everything we are going to need. The same thing with skiing. She is generally a quiet, thoughtful girl, but when it is something she really loves she doesn't stop talking! I started teaching her piano and she picked it up instantly, knows all the key names and could read quite a few notes, but when I had Max the lessons stopped. We'll start over again soon. What she is really great at is writing. She writes books, writes the story and several pages with illustrations for each one. Gives it a title page and staples them together. They're usually about 5-7 pages long and so cute. A few titles are "Sally wants some Cheese-its", "Jessica the Sleepy Little Girl", and my favorite, "The Unicorn and the Horse." She has no help with spelling or ideas at all. What did I say? Genius! She is the sweetest child, always telling people she loves them, taking such good care of her baby sister and brother. She is so responsible and serious sometimes that I worry she will forget to have fun. I guess that's not really possible with Andy as her dad! I love her so much and am so proud that she is mine!

When It's Okay To Not Change a Diaper

2009-01-26T09:11:00.009-07:00

So, we are in fact still alive, despite the lack of blogging. Andy asked me why I haven't put anything up, and it's because I can't post without pictures, and our camera has recently turned to crap so pictures have been scarce.

But we went to St. George last weekend. Andy had some classes for work he had to go to, so we all tagged along. I attempted to leave the hotel room by myself with three little kids, but that didn't work out so well, so we hung out by the pool for two days, and it was awesome. It was so warm! We went to a park and it was so packed with vacationers, not locals, taking advantage of dry ground.

When Andy got home from classes, the girls wanted to jump back in the pool with him, naturally. There were dozens of kids there, and it didn't take long before they were ALL climbing all over Andy. He's a magnet. He turns to me and says, "Every pool we go to this happens!" And it wasn't as if there weren't other parents in the pool, either. One little girl was even calling him "Daddy!" I wonder if the other parents felt bad, but I doubt it. I think it was more, "Ahh, now they're his problem. I can relax." He just shouldn't be so much fun! Max and I just hung out and watched, which was fine with me. I'm not even close to being ready for swimsuits yet!

So, on Saturday we had to check out of the hotel and I had to entertain the kids without a pool. We went to the park, and then to the movies (Hotel for Dogs, don't waste your time even if it is for kids.) and when we went into the movies I didn't bother to bring a diaper bag with. You see, Max only poops about once every five days. And if I'm carrying a car seat with fifteen pound baby in it, plus trying to keep a hold of a 2 year old and a five year old is pulling my pants down by my back pockets, the last thing I need is a diaper bag. Long story short, Max is happy as a clam, but when I adjust him on my lap, I feel IT! POOP has leaked out, and is not only on him, but all over my pants! I'm in a movie theater and to get a diaper I would have to lug the aforementioned car seat, baby, toddler and 5 year old clear out to the parking lot. So what did this genius do? I wrapped him in a blanket and he happily sat in it for another 45 minutes! Gross? Yes. My pants had dried poop that couldn't be wiped off by the time we got out, but I stand by my decision. Don't judge me! Despite the poop, the trip was wonderful. Our kids are so good in the car that the long ride was really not that bad. Thank goodness for portable DVD players, eh?

Andy and the girls having a blast.

Zoe flipped herself with an elastic in the hotel room. Check out the shape of the welt!

Max got his first "real bathtub" bath at the hotel after a short romp in the pool!

Lights

2008-12-28T23:16:00.003-07:00

We had a request to see the lights on the new casa. Well ok. Christmas came and went and it was great! But here's our exterior illumination display for 2008. I plan to double it next year (at least).The plastic snowman on the roof is buried half way. This was after the first couple storms.

Christmas Card Faux Pas

2008-12-16T12:08:00.005-07:00

I am a bad bad girl and didn't even attempt to get Christmas cards out this year. How dare I?! But that doesn't mean we are not thinking of you and hoping all is well with you. I hope this can count as our card. We love you all ....well, most of you! (Kidding! God bless us, every one!)

Santa's Flying Choppers Now

2008-12-08T15:07:00.006-07:00

Merry Christmas from all of us! I hope everyone is more prepared for this holiday than I am. With Max coming into our life, Christmas really snuck up on me. But it is always easy to get into the spirit after Andys' works' Christmas party. Every year Santa and Mrs. Claus (except she had to stay at the North Pole this year) fly in courtesy of AirMed to the screaming delight of kids. He gives them a wonderful gift and is EXTREMELY jolly! After a party like this, the kids have been so excited. Last night I crept up to their bedroom door and listened to Ella and Zoe singing Rudolph and Frosty and Jingle Bells to each other and giggling the whole time. Ella would tell Zoe all about how "Santa is magic, so he will make us a chimney that he can come down" with Zoe responding, "REALLY!" It was so cute and the excitement welled up in my chest just as strong as if I was 5 too!

Twelve

2008-12-04T19:50:00.000-07:00

Four weeks today. 12.0 Pounds!!
What, is he in some kind of hurry?

Daddy's Boy!! (with scientific proof)

2008-11-26T12:24:00.001-07:00

MyHeritage: Look-alike Meter - Family website - Roots

Max's Debut, A Star is Born!

2008-11-24T17:52:00.000-07:00

Make a Smilebox scrapbook

Hey, watch our little video! (Mom, click on the arrows under the pictures to view pages!)

Balloons, Babies and Neil Diamond

2008-11-16T16:14:00.000-07:00

So, it has finally come to this. I should just get the Depends out now, because there is no turning back. I am officially the big 3-0. Thirty! This wasn't supposed to happen to me! I've already called Bea Arthur and I made the cut to become an official Golden Girl. Yippee.
There was no way around this horrific event, but surprisingly, there was no depression and renting of clothes like I thought there would be. In fact, thanks to my wonderful husband and sweet girls and the newly arrived darling Max, it was my favorite birthday ever, REALLY.
It started early, Max was to distract me in my bedroom while the others got everything ready. Zoe would come in every few minutes just to say in her adorable 2 year old voice, "Happy Birthday, Mommy!" and give me a hug. Finally I got to come downstairs, to be greeted with an entire house FULL of balloons! 30 exactly. Each color with signifigance. And a huge signs designed and decorated by the biggest up and coming artists, Zoe and Ella. An enormous breakfast of M&M waffles, eggs and bacon and sausage. Ella had been so excited and told Andy that they had to dress in their best clothes for the "party." so they all were! Max is just over a week old, so I wasn't up to doing a whole lot, so we partied at home. Andy knows me so well and always puts a lot of thought into my birthday presents, and he surprised me with a 30th edition of The Princess Bride ( I highly recommend reading it, it's even better than the movie.) AND tickets to Neil Diamond! I am so stinking excited! My parents and grandparents and sisters family came over for cake and ice cream that night, and it was so nice to sit and visit and feel normal for the first time in 10 days. I know it doesn't sound super exciting, but it was so wonderful and Andy knew exactly what I needed.

So, a side note away from the birthday mumbo jumbo, my beautiful baby is 10 days old already. Why can't they stay little for just one second, seriously? He finally is off of the bili lights, after 6 days. It was no fun at all, but I am so greatful he is getting better! I just wanted to show off how he gets cuter everyday!

Billy Something

2008-11-11T00:35:00.000-07:00

So I guess Max wants his name to be Billy Ruben. He didn't say that, but he turned yellow. So here's our little treasure in a UV light contraption. Another heel bleeding tomorrow will tell if it's working. We sure hope so. We feel lucky and blessed to have him here and otherwise healthy.
I'm going in there next. I'll be so tan. I can't wait.

Maximus is home!!!

2008-11-09T21:27:00.000-07:00

Don't I just have the cutest family? I can't imagine life in our house without Max, and that was only, what, three days ago? He is so beautiful and sweet. He is eating and pooping great, but, unfortunately we all have to go through getting sleeping patterns down, right? I want to show him off to everyone in the world and yet in the same breath I say, "Stay away! Wash your hands! Don't get him sick!" Yes, I am one of those moms. So I will show him off on this blog, where RSV can't reach him. Course, maybe now he'll just get a computer virus, hu! (Bad joke, it was Andy's.) Anyway, here is my gorgeous baby boy, and I could not be more in love with him!

The girls are fascinated with the basinette and could not wait to rock Max in it.

Play Video (This is for Mom who didn't know she could play videos on the blog before! Love you, Mom) This is Max's first night in this crazy world at about 4:00 a.m. I was burping him and he picks up his head and looks around! He's only hours old, he shouldn't be able to do that! What can I say, the boys a genius. (Sorry its so dark. Hope you can see it)

Max

2008-11-06T21:13:00.000-07:00

Three doctors, three hospitals, three cities, three kids. Here is the third. Mr Max.
I cropped out his privates - he would want that
He was 9 lbs 4 oz. 21" long. Chubby little guy, eh?

So we went in at 7:30 and got all settled. The Doctor performed an *amnionotomy* and contractions picked up. Epidural went in ok, but became occluded. Then when it "broke loose" it hit Sarah hard. Can you say loopy? She'll kill me for writing this. But she did pass out for a sec a couple of times. A little scary, but it definitely made her less anxious. And pale. And unable to see. And confused. But she was great. Max began his lifelong commitment to breathing at 1:30 pm or so. 1:36? I dunno.

And so Zoe's world is flipped, she seems to be wrapping her head around the whole concept.

Ella gets it and she seems pretty exited and happy.

Grandparents were there to welcome the three chinned chunker.

Things went really really well! Sarah is feeling really good compared to the two previous ventures in childbirth.

I'm happy as the proverbial peach.
Lots of support and love from family and friends. And lots of texting. Boy are my thumbs pooped. rotfl lol ty ibs pta ;) dnr rotc vbac nib moo. Whatever.
So we did it all for the blog. Clear back in February we were like - "Hey, lets have a baby so that if we ever start a blog, we can put a post all about the whole experience and then lots of pictures and videos so that everyone will see our awesome baby making skills." And that dream can finally be realized here at blogspot.com.
Love you. Peace out. Bring on the crying and pooing and no sleep and then bring Max home.