my yellow balloon

Lowdown Part Dos

2011-10-12T10:03:00.001-07:00

Hi.

Eden is sick so I have been sitting next to her with my computer on my lap for two days straight. I have looked at pinterest and facebook so many times that my head was starting to spin. So, I thought huh, what else can I do? Blog....uh yeah, and then I really couldn't even remember how for a few minuets. Sad.

I really should blog more. Like really.

So, to fill you in with our lives right now.

Andy passed the Bar and will be sworn in on Halloween day. The next day he will start working for a guy in Murray. It is a limited partnership...basically. So, Andy is pretty much starting his own family law practice. He will live in Salt Lake for November and try to find us a place to live. Me and the girls will still stay with our gracious parents--- Thank heavens for nice parents! Then hopefully us Fackrells will be together in a new place in the first of December. We'll see how things go, but that is our tentative plan.

Independence Day 2011

2011-07-08T20:33:00.000-07:00

We had a great 4th!

Mainly cause we got to spend it with Andy!

Auri got in as much snuggle time as possible.

It's hard being away from such a great guy!

Yummy family BBQ. Ribs. Yum.

My sister Kerrah brought her new adorable baby home from the hospital!

Fireworks with friends!

Matt and Abbey were super generous and let us stay with them for a few days. It was nice to be around friends again.

It was great!

I'm very proud to be an American!

The Things We Miss Most

2011-07-08T15:23:00.001-07:00

As much as I love Utah (and know it's where we're supposed to be), there will always be a little chunk missing from my heart that I left in California! Here is why:

DISNEYLAND:

*Yes, I know I can go visit, but it's just not the same as driving 20 minuets to get there.

*Many a day, Disneyland saved the lives of me and my children. Let's just say a one bedroom apartment just isn't big enough for 4 people.

*I will never forget Auri's face lighting up on many occasions in the magical kingdom. The best one would probably have to be the first time we saw World of Color. Auri was in awe. So was I. It's amazing.

*Disneyland was always great when family came to visit...especially the time Auri pooped her pants. Remember Mom? haha!

Dangit! I need to go back soon!!!

THE BEACH:

*I wish I would of taken advantage of only living a half hour away from some of the best beaches in California more often.

*We loved it when our family came to visit because it would almost always ensure that a beach trip was in store!

*Going to the beach on play dates with moms from the ward were always so much fun! I miss you girls!

MY BEST FRIEND ROBYN:

*I think that Heavenly Father knew I would need my best friend to help me and my family through the experience of law school. Robyn lived 40 min. away and I am so grateful!

* One thing that Robyn did that means the world to me, is when I went into labor with Eden, she came and got Auri from my neighbor and tended her all day and night. I will never forget such a gracious favor. I was comforted knowing she was with Robyn.

*Many craft projects...lot's started...few finished!

*Shopping, beach trips, Disneyland Days.

*General Conference/Food Fest!

Love ya Rob!

But most of all we miss...

OUR FAMILY!!!:

We really miss Matt & Niki, Max, Mia, Luke, Nate....and Sally(the dog)!

*It really was SUCH a blessing to have our family so close.

*Holiday parties, Birthday Parties.

*Disneyland/Beach.

*Sunday dinners were the best with the Fackrells!

*Nate's Visits which usually included, trying to find a parking spot, dinner, teasing Auri and Eden, redbox, and midnight chats.

*Hot tubing/Swimming at our place.

We love you guys so DANG much!

Utah so far-in numbers

2011-06-26T22:43:00.000-07:00

Broken down moving truck: 1

Hours waiting in desert for mechanic: 4

Days before Andy had to leave: 1

Times I have barfed: 3

Times my girls have barfed:12+

Days I have seen Andy: 5

Times we have skyped Andy: 25+

Gone swimming: 6

Eaten out: 20+

Words with Friends: 12

Eden to instacare: 2

Camping: 1

To SLC: 1

Hours working out (for class): 12

Root canal (Andy): 1

Cried: 5

Rescued Eden: 10+

Degrees: 103

And you wonder why I haven't blogged yet? That is if anyone even reads anymore!

Well for the record...I hope our numbers improve for the better this summer.

It's just barely summer and already I'm kind of looking forward to fall!

The Honey Trees

2011-05-06T18:22:00.000-07:00

I am digging the sound of her voice...rich, melty, girly. I think this is just great. Enjoy!

Easter 2011

2011-04-28T23:13:00.000-07:00

We had a "Hoppy Easter"! Hope you did too!

the low down and awesomeness

2011-03-30T20:09:00.000-07:00

So I thought I would officially fill you in about our moving plans...like you are dying to know.

We are officially moving from California to Utah May 14th.

Andy starts his Bar course on the 16th in Salt Lake. (Yeah, you'd think this guy could catch a break-but no! Sheesh!)

He will live with the awesome Mangus fam and whoever else will offer him a soft cushion to curl up on.

Me and the girls are going to live with my parents at least until the end of July.

I'm going to be awesome and finish my Associates degree by taking 2 classes...yes, 2. One online and one is the fitness center where I will be awesome and probably be the only one in there with grey hairs.

Auri is going to be awesome and take lessons of all sorts..this is my plan to make her busy enough that she won't miss her dad too terribly.

Eden is going to be awesome and...well, just continue to be awesome.

The main thing that won't be awesome is being away from Andy-Daddy. He is so awesome! Like really! I married a totally awesome guy! His level of dedication is unparalleled!

Well, that's it for the most part.

I'll update any changes that come along!

I hope for cabin trips, swimming, playing in dirt, riding bikes, eating Popsicles, crafting e.c.t. this summer. If you are up for any of that and want to join me and the girls, I would love it!

A Thing for Balloons

2011-03-21T19:29:00.000-07:00

Yeah buddy, I know how you feel, I've got a thing for balloons too...particularly the yellow variety.

kind of a spectacle

2011-03-01T12:55:00.000-08:00

I got new glasses-I think I love them.

Auri loves eggs-boiled eggs.

We're kind of a spectacle.

Have a happy day ya'll!

Sunday Serenity 2

2011-02-27T15:11:00.000-08:00

Sunday Serenity

2011-02-20T18:59:00.001-08:00

Lately I have been feeling a need to be a better mother and spiritual leader of our home. I know that my efforts are good in being a wife and mother, but honestly I know I can do more especially when it comes to living a more Christ centered life. It's easy to get caught up in the world-even when it's good. What I mean is; I often find myself comparing myself to others-which is especially easy to do here on the internet. Things become more important in these kinds of comparisons rather than what is really important. What is important is how I am raising my children. I know that instead of sitting here looking at how others are doing it and feeling jealous or inadequate, I need to step it up and be better myself and not care what others think or do, just focus on what is best for me and my family.

Well, I'm not really good with conveying exactly what I am trying to say so I think Marjorie says it quite well.

So, I am simplifying.

Focusing on my girls.

Singing more primary songs.

Reading more scriptures and church literature.

Being content with my closet full of thrift store clothes.

Cooking new better/healthier meals.

Having Family Home Evening.

Service.

Less:

Comparing.

Wishing for....

Wasted time.

*Each Sunday I'm going to try to post a quote that I want to focus on for the week.

I think it will help.

Happy Sunday Serenity

Party Time

2011-02-18T13:42:00.001-08:00

Auri must be a pretty special girl because she convinced most of the Fackrell's to come to Disneyland for her birthday.

Grandpa hasn't been for like 15 years and last time he went he got on one ride and waited like 4 hours to get on it.

He wasn't too excited-well thankfully we got to go on a lot of fun rides and we all had a really good time... especially Auri!

The party crew.

Auri was pulling a great face for every group shot.

(Jackson, Jason and Tiffany will be photoshopped in for the Christmas card.)

I really like this picture for a lot of reasons:

Mia just snuggling grandpa

Max and Auri goofing off

the babies with grandma

Eden's cute little gremlin grin

3 cokes nearby

peace fingers and hello kitty...is my daughter part Asian. ;)

The cake was an adventure.

Homemade fondant kitty and candy flowers-what was I thinking?

Way too much work for what it's worth...and I didn't even taste it. (Not G.F.)

Although I do think it turned out quite adorable even though Hello Kitty's face isn't quite perfectly proportional.

She loved it and thats what matters.

Presents!

Her face says it all!

Auri turns FOUR!!!

2011-02-17T19:16:00.001-08:00

Yep. Definitely four.

I am loving this girl at this age.

Auri at four:

*Is learning to read-she can read words like: kite, mop, run, fish, e.c.t.

*She is understanding consequences and rules and tries really hard to follow them.

*Loves anything and everything crafty. Our walls have a few new decorations every day.

*She says, "look mom!", every time she gives Eden a hug or kiss.

*Getting really good at math. Subtraction and addition.

*She adores her father....surprise, surprise. :)

*Hello Kitty anything and everything...She's got Hello Kitty on the brain.

*She is very curious about Jesus and his plan and asks really in depth questions. She loves singing the primary songs and says really good prayers. She is also really loving primary. Last week she got to say the prayer. (Her dad went up to help her and when he went to lower the mic he bonked her in the head...way to go dad!)

*She loves her grandma's and grandpa's and talks about them constantly.

We really adore this little girl!

Happy (belated) Birthday Auri!

Love Letters

2011-02-06T20:19:00.000-08:00

I really, really love Valentines.

It makes me feel all warm and snuggly.

So many memories come rushing in every time I think of Valentines:

-sitting at the kitchen table making homemade valentine boxes for school...one year it was a ladybug and you would lift up it's wing to put the letters in.

-Walking around the classroom trying to give the people you like the cutest one, or sneaking them an extra treat.

-making pink heart sugar cookies with my mom (could it even be valentines without them?)

-the carnation day for highschool years...I usually only got one or two...if I was lucky

-the time Andy learned his lesson on our first valentines...um, you are supposed to get your wife something on your "first" valentines...yeah, he learned his lesson and makes up for it every year since :)

-Valentines 2007: I had a 4 day old adorable baby girl-best valentine EVER

-Valentines 2010: in the E.R. with crazy stomach pain...later to find out I had Celiac Disease

-making homemade valentines with the girls

-delivering valentines door to door in the rain to all the neighborhood kids

I really love Valentines!

Some of mine and Auri's valentines...Eden tore off the majority of the hearts the next day.

Auri freaked out.

I consoled her by telling her we could make more.

I think it will be round 5 for us.

Eden 18 Months

2011-02-06T15:49:00.000-08:00

Yesterday this little tootsie tuned 18 months.

We sure love this little girl!

Some tidbits:

Eden is OBSESSED with her binky...Like walking around the house crying "B, B, B!" when it's not in her mouth. Yes, I know. Definitely a sign to get rid of it!

She has to do things her way and her way only. When she is eating she is most particular-basically, her food doubles as face and body lotion.

Extreme sweet tooth! Surprise...Surprise!

Climbs any and everything.

New favorite phrase is, "no, no, no".

Loves pestering Auri.

Loves Auri.

Loves to snuggle and will actually lay her head down on my shoulder, something Auri never did.

Gives us kisses by poking her bottom lip out.

Luv her!

Coins for Kittens

2011-02-02T16:27:00.000-08:00

Auri took her coins to coinstar.

The machine spit out roughly eleven dollars.

We walked next door to the toy store and traded the moolah in for these cutesies.

Have any spare change laying around?

Kitty's are way cuter than coins.

Sista Krista

2011-01-17T17:31:00.001-08:00

This is my little sister Krista.

She is called to serve in the Brazil Sao Paulo East mission.

She leaves in April.

Isn't she perty?!

And a little cookie.

I'm so excited for her!

I think the people of Brazil are lucky to be getting such a cutie patootie!

Christmas 2010

2011-01-11T21:04:00.000-08:00

Ah, Christmas time. So much joy. So much fun! This year was no different!

Ready for church

Performing "Jingle Bells"...probably the cutest rendition I have ever heard.

Seriously, I'm coming to think that it is impossible to get a family photo with all of us looking "normal"---way to go Eden.

Aunt Tiff and Uncle Jason-you wont meet anyone too much more inspiring than these two! They adore our girls!

We love them!

Eden and Giraffy...

Giraffy almost didn't make an apperance.

Christmas would of been more deflated without him!

Thank goodness he made it to see this little girls face light up!

There were probably 40 of this same picture. Classic. I'll have to post some.

Christmas wouldn't be complete without lots of cousin time

...and grandparents galore

Fackrell Balls

Wii

Egg Nog and Coke

Hello Kitty

Gluten Free Cream Cheese Cookies (thanks Ma!)

Cheese Ball

Movie Theaters

Snowmen

It's A Wonderful Life/Christmas Story

Cedar City

the list goes on...

But most of all...our SAVIOR!

Our Christmas was wonderful-I hope yours was too!

Thanksgiving 2010

2011-01-11T19:12:00.001-08:00

This Thanksgiving was one for the history books. You see, I was barfing all day the day before, therefore eliminating any and all plans we had made to spend the holiday with family. Notice the "thankful leaf" behind Eden with the depiction of a man barfing crossed out...well, Andy was most thankful he didn't get it. So, we made the best of the situation and surprisingly I felt quite well that day. We made a small dinner-sadly no turkey-and enjoyed each others company to the fullest, and ya know what? We loved this Thanksgiving! It was nice to just focus on our little family, not to say that we didn't miss our loved ones, it's just, it was kind of neat to just be together and have a relaxing day being thankful for one another.

Eden's pre Thanksgiving feast: Raisins with a pink spoon-yum!

Serious little Indian.

Most thankful for these ^^^

The Lady of the Cold

2010-11-29T22:41:00.000-08:00

I won't let Andy turn on our heater...I think it has something to do with the fact that just two weeks ago our A.C. was on full blast.

It's kind of nice to have to wrap up in a blanket and wear socks on my feet...something I haven't done for months!!!

I'm not turning the heat on until she comes.

Why do I love such weird things?

Tiny Fuzzy Balls

2010-11-17T16:00:00.000-08:00

If you were like me, when you were three, then every time your mom took you to the craft store, you probably wanted tiny fuzzy balls.

Well, Auri is no different.

They're just so tiny and cute and too hard to resist!

So we made party hat people...cause every day is a party, right?

and

Piggies with a mysterious jump rope.

(we didn't add it, it just appeared)

They must have needed something to do at piggy recess.

So simple and fun for kids.

I drew the pigs and the circles for faces and the hair...Auri did the rest.

Yo Gabba Gabba

2010-11-17T15:42:00.001-08:00

(Notice Mia on the screen-cool huh!)

This Yo Gabba Gabba was special to us for a number of reasons....

Uncle Matt directed it

Daddy wrote a song for it

and

Our cousin Mia was in it

it was.......AWESOME!!!!

Glued...just as they should be! :)

Yeah, we were excited!

Cowgirl meets Lumber Jack

2010-11-17T15:07:00.000-08:00

Yeah so...I haven't posted any outfits yet.

But, here's my first.

Shirt: Husband bought it at thrift store then later realized it's a womens shirt. SCORE!

Vest: Goodwill

Pants: Old Navy

Shoes: JCREW (found at Downeast for 97 cents!)

Necklace: F21

Ring: Designed by my mom when she was a teen.

Day Two-Desert Extravaganza

2010-10-21T15:28:00.001-07:00

*Day two started out by driving past the northern tip of Lake Powell...I wouldn't let my girls out of the car for a picture. It scared me too bad-my nephews were about giving me a heart attack as it was.

*Goosenecks was next...neat but kindof ugly too.

These are our little goosenecks...they are only ugly sometimes.

Cute most times.

*Monument Valley

I really ejoyed Monument Valley-it is quite spectacular.

The part that wasn't as spectacular was the roads you get to take while there. They are very bumpy dusty roads...we roughed it though, and I'm glad we did, it was beautiful.

The rocks behind us are called "Three Sisters"

Eden must of liked them cause that is one of the cutest smiles I have ever seen!

(or she liked Aunt Kerrah playing peek a boo-either way-it's a great smile)

Miss Sassy Pants and her Sidekick

We also stayed at Mexican Hat and had Mexican food.

The picture I got of Mexican Hat rock was pretty pathetic.

Just imagine a rock that looks like a sombrero and there ya go...kindof.

Day One-Desert Extravaganza

2010-10-20T15:14:00.000-07:00

Last year my grandpa and his siblings took this trip through the desert. He thought it was pretty darn neat, so this year he decided to take his whole family. Almost everyone made it except for one uncle and a few of the cousins husbands...including mine. It was quite the effort on everyones part to make it happen but we were all so glad that it did!

Auri loved the "desert trip" and cried when she realized that we were headed home and not to another hotel.

4 days and 1200 miles of desert and family...good times!

Here is the recap:

Day one:

*Drive to Cedar City-meet up with most everyone

*Meet at Boulder for lunch.

*Burr Trail Drive...(this was cool particularly to me and my girls because Andy comes from that same line of Burrs-which means my girls were on the same route their ancestors once took.)

*Capitol Reef National Park

Most of the whole gang. 13+ more people joined the party later.

Bo

2010-10-18T23:27:00.001-07:00

I love when a best friend enters motherhood...it's like you are instantly that much more bonded and there's a new little baby that you get to squish.

This is Hannah's new little Bo.

Such a precious little lad.

Bo and his great great great...(great) grandpa....or something like that.

Hannah wasn't completely sure.

Cool none the less.

One of Hannah's beautiful quilts.

That girls got skillz!

Thanks Han!

Bo is the best!

Congrats!

Ideas by heart

2010-10-13T08:19:00.000-07:00

Ideas by heart from annika bäckström on Vimeo.

Zits and stuff

2010-09-21T12:19:00.000-07:00

I think that it is unfair to still have zits at age 25.

They are driving me crazy!

Also, recently the development of two patches of eczema on each side of my nostrils, are about to send me over the edge.

If anyone knows a secret...please share...I beg!

On a much cuter note, my sister really wants one of these and I really want one of these.

Not until we have a yard for it to poop in....and the kids are old enough to pick it up.

One day.

Also, in three days I will be going on a desert extravaganza with my extended (moms side) family. It will for sure provide lots of stories and adventures to share. I am excited. Also, a little nervous that Andy won't be coming along...two wild little girl munchkins for me to tame, sounds a little daunting...thank goodness for grandma and grandpa!!!

Happy Tuesday!

Happy Labor Day

2010-09-06T18:02:00.000-07:00

A horse of course # 1

2010-08-31T21:49:00.000-07:00

Horse #1:

-working from memory is harder than i thought it would be

-horse legs and hooves have lots of strange curves that are hard to figure out

-placement of the nostrils, eyes and ears prove to be difficult

So...I'm changing my rules.

For now.

New rules:

I can look at pictures as I draw.

I figure this way, there will be less frustration and more drawing.

***p.s. I hope you are all way more impressed with Auri's spelling... more than my dorky horse! :) I sure am!

Taste the Rainbow

2010-08-31T21:26:00.000-07:00

The sweetest little one year old I've ever known!

very simple rainbow theme

mainly cause I wanted to try making this...and yes it was gluten free

Thanks family for coming all the way to Cali for the party-it was a blast!

You guys are the best!

Eden we love you!

start art

2010-08-16T12:08:00.000-07:00

Lately I have really been into art.

It kind of started when nothing else was on t.v. and I started watching this.

I wasn't super impressed with some of the pieces that were produced and kept finding myself thinking "I could do something way cooler than that" or "man, if I only had access to those supplies". But then I came to the realization, that yeah, I could probably make some stuff that would be interesting works of art, but I don't.

I just don't put effort into refining my artistic abilities yet I think that I could do better than those who ARE ACTUALLY DOING IT! Lame.

So...I'm going to go through an art reawakening and I'm going to drag you along-whether you like it or not! :)

I'm going to start by drawing horses from memory. I love horses! In case you forgot! My rules are, one drawing a week and I can't look at anything while I am actually at work drawing it. I can study pictures of horses as much as I want, but I cant use any to draw from-memory only! I'm gonna do it for a month and see if I get any better as time goes on. I am really excited!

Dress Week

2010-08-16T08:47:00.000-07:00

I won't lie. Dress week was a flop.

Sunday, Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday...I did pretty good. Andy had to talk me into what I was wearing on Monday. I had Tuesday and Wednesday for the convincing. I was reluctant each time.

Also, I realized that Sunday best is Sundays best because children destroy nice clothes. I'm not really looking forward to washing and ironing all my outfits because they have cheerio goo or watercolors on them! Oh well!

On Thursday my family came into town and the rest of the week was history! Let's just say, I'm glad I wasn't wearing a skirt or dress as I rode this.

Eden's First

2010-08-05T21:54:00.001-07:00

Today this little babe turned one.

I cannot believe it!

I love her so much....like soooo much!

Happy Birthday sweet girl!!!!

Fashion Floop 2

2010-07-28T11:19:00.000-07:00

So my last post got me thinking.

I don't wear a lot of my clothes. Mostly because I am scared they are ugly or fit me weird. So I was thinking. I am going to give myself fashion challenges to wear different things and not care what other people think. Spice it up a bit!

Yesterday I wore a dress. On a Tuesday. Way out of the norm for me. But, I liked it. I felt feminine and pretty and a whole lot cooler the whole day. Not to mention that it is a dress that I haven't worn for over a year. I never wear it cause it has a weird top. Well, I threw a cardigan over it and I loved the result.

Sooo...

Next week starting on Sunday, I'm going to wear a dress or a skirt for the entire week. Sounds kind of daunting, but I really need to break out of the norm. Any one want to join me?

Fashion Floop

2010-07-28T10:44:00.001-07:00

So...It takes me forever to figure out what to wear.

Andy hates it.

Me too.

So...I think that from now on, when I like an outfit that I put together, I'm gonna take a picture and put it on here. Then when I can't figure out what to wear I can have easy access to outfits.

Also, being a mom kinda makes it hard to want to get ready and look cute. I just think this might help. Kinda.

But just a warning, I am no fashionista. I don't have the money to be. 90% of my clothes are from Target or Goodwill/D.I.

If anything, looking back on this in a few years will probably give me some good laughs!

Spell check

2010-07-22T12:06:00.000-07:00

I'm glad my little sister is the only person brave enough to tell me I'm a dork and don't know how to spell.

Spell check: Patients---Patience

Thanks Krista.

*I often played with a big, stuffed, fluffy dog in my senior English class...I guess I shouldn't of.

p.s. Krista got nervous for a second, thinking we were patients-like in the E.R. haha.woops.

Patients

2010-07-20T18:24:00.000-07:00

Last night I prayed to Heavenly Father for more patients with my girls.

Eden only slept like 4 hours on and off and screamed at the top of her lungs while awake. (and no, I don't think she is sick)

Andy ended up on the living room floor. Me, well I'm really, really tired today.

Then, Auri cut her own hair this afternoon-a huge chunk right in her cowlick. It makes her have a little alfalfa sprout. I can't help but laugh at her every time she walks by. But those soft locks I found in the garbage still almost make me cry.

Lets just say prayers were answered.

My children are still alive and unharmed. Patients indeed.

Taken By Trees

2010-07-15T14:59:00.001-07:00

Rolls

2010-07-09T10:02:00.000-07:00

Last night I had a dream that I snuck a roll....from a baggie in the corner.

Sad.

My subconscious self misses gluten too.

Really though, it isn't that bad.

The only things I have really craved or missed....pizza and sugar cookies.

Maybe I'll just try to sneak those in my dreams too.

25 with a bash

2010-07-05T09:58:00.000-07:00

Gluten free devils food cake with coconut frosting...I may have eaten too much.

Owen and Auri the heart throbs....(Auri is sporting a cake mole to add to her beauty)

Pyrotechnics

Fireworks to make the occasion extraordinary!

Such a fun 25th!

Thanks fam for making my birthday so special!!!

lips crease upward-smiley face

2010-06-23T20:24:00.000-07:00

There is a small little orange smiley face sticker in the second dryer.

It makes me smile every time I see it.

I know who it previously belonged to.

I wonder if anyone else smiles when the see it too?

Probably not.

But they should.

I bet if they knew who it was from they would.

true love will find you in the end

2010-06-22T14:24:00.000-07:00

i love them.

Sol Linero

2010-06-22T12:42:00.000-07:00

Each Campaign from Sol Linero on Vimeo.

Oceans from Sol Linero on Vimeo.

LOVE the art in these...the message is good too!

Dads

2010-06-20T14:54:00.000-07:00

Seriously, I lucked out when I chose a spouse.

I always wanted to marry someone who would make a great father to my children and Andy exceeds my expectations on all levels.

He is amazing with our girls.

He is fun, patient, silly, calming...all things that I lack when it comes to parenting.

There is no denying that our girls absolutely adore him too!

Edens favorite word is "Dada" and she shakes her head no when I tell her to say "mom". She only likes to please her father I suppose.

Auri is pretty much a clone of Andy when it comes to personality. Those two have a bond like no other. Auri's world is made up of her dad and all the silly things they do together.

Honestly I could not ask for more in a father to my children. Thank you Andy! Thank you for making my job as a parent so much easier. Thank you for loving our daughters more than anything! You are the best! We love you!

And to my dad.

I think that you are an amazing guy!

My girls can't get enough of Grandpa either. They adore him! If Auri hears me talking on the phone to him she comes a runnin' and demands that she talks to him. He really does have such a neat bond with my girls and with all his grandchildren.

This year my dad lost both of his parents. My dad has been so strong through all of it. Going through this has shown me how honorable and strong, yet tender and sensitive, my dad is. He has had a lot of stressful things to deal with and has done so with dignity. He is a great example.

My dad is always there for me and has helped me through a lot lately. I am so grateful for a father who is such a great guy!

I love you Dad! Thanks for all you do for me!

Buzz

2010-06-16T22:25:00.000-07:00

Today I wanted to buzz my head.

Good hair days are far and few between lately,

and I lack the motivation to figure it all out.

Or maybe I just need some hair tips.

I am naive when it comes to styling hair.

Help!

What tips and products are your favorite?

p.s. my sister is probably laughing/rolling her eyes....considering she is a cosmetologist.

Love

2010-06-16T08:45:00.001-07:00

Love em!

*more like this to come

The Dunkleys

2010-06-15T19:57:00.001-07:00

These are the Dunkleys. Jared's family lived right down the street from us when we were growing up. Now his parents actually live right across the street from my inlaws so we still get to see them pretty often-which is a good thing!

You can always count on at least a handful of good laughs when you are around a Dunkley.

Kind of like how we were laughing after a cop came during our photoshoot and almost arrested us for trespassing. Luckily he didn't.

haha...good times! ;)

Don't they have the cutest little girls?!

It's so fun to watch them with their girls because my girls are really close in age to theirs.

Thanks you guys!

And next time we are in town lets let the girls play-k-?!

Coping...

2010-06-08T09:17:00.000-07:00

These last few months have not been so wonderful. This is not a fun post. It is a whiny post, so if you get annoyed with that sort of thing...don't proceed.

At the first of last month my grandpa passed away pretty much 3 months after my grandma died. Getting to his funeral was stressful because it was during Andy's finals and there was no way that he could leave. Lucky for me my awesome in-laws came to the rescue and got me to Utah to be with my family when they needed me and when I needed them.

Then when Andy was trying to make it to Salt Lake for the funeral our car broke down. Lucky for all of us, my brother was just an hour behind him and picked him up. They all made it safely.

The funeral was nice and I am reassured that my grandparents are together and that they are happy but it is hard to not have them here. I especially feel for my dad who lost his parents in such a short amount of time. It really makes you realize how precious life is and how important family is.

Then when we got back from Utah a switch turned in Auri and she turned into a terror. "No", "I don't want to", and "I don't like it" are the words that I swear are stuck on repeat. She has run away from me at the store twice, thrown at least 5 major tantrums-so bad that one of them (at church) she slammed her head into the cement and got a goose egg. I guess I just need to be a better mom-but man, that girl is strong willed and smart. I think we are going to implement a sticker chart of some sort and see if that helps.

Eden's 4 top teeth are bulging!!! And we all know what goes along with teething babies. Not so fun.

Also, being a Celiac can be quite trying at times. It really is a more serious disease than you would think. My nurse called me yesterday and told me that my Iron and Vitamin D are really low and that the Dr. ordered me to have a bone density scan. He is worried of early osteoporosis. Yikes.

Oh and my attempts at gluten free baking have tasted like poo or metal. Real good.

So yeah, Im coping. Some days are better than others.

Really though-I still count my very many blessings each day. I am truly blessed. So I will try to be strong and not whine very much any more.

Anyone seen a good car for around 3,000$?

Eden 9 Months

2010-05-05T23:03:00.000-07:00

Eden at nine months:

-dances to any glimmer of music...she grooves...it's too dang cute.

-waves hi and bye, and whispers "hi" sometimes.

-crawls up on all fours.

-pulls up on furniture and my legs.

-weighs 16.5 pounds-kinda small...(took her to the dr. today-he is referring me to a g.i. specialist to further evaluate her chance of inheriting Celiac Disease).

-quite the momma's girl.

-is starting to play patty cake and peek a boo.

-still wakes up during the night (we're working on this).

-has two little bottom teeth.

-prefers feeding herself finger foods.

-says "dada" for everything...especially when I try to get her to say "mama".

She is so much fun and I love her so dang much!!!

***Also, Happy Birthday to my oldest horse...I mean nephew (who would like to be a horse)!

Izac, I hope you had a awesome day and that you got some neat presents.

We will have to party with you next time we see you!

Grace

2010-05-03T06:40:00.000-07:00

It's amazing how fast kids grow. I took Grace's pictures when she turned one and it seemed like she was a tiny baby-now she is like a little girl!

Grace is so fun and has such a spunky little personality.

See what I mean with that spunk! :)

So cute.

Thanks Grace!

Little Butter Finger

2010-05-01T18:02:00.000-07:00

Yesterday Andy's parents took us out to eat.

We had a nice dinner-but our butter went missing.

Today Andy took Auri with him to the store.

From the back seat he kept hearing Auri say, "I LIKE butter!, I LIKE butter!"

When he went to unbuckle her, he saw what she was all about.

She was licking the gold wrapper of a butter.

She had snatched all the butter and a crisp white cloth napkin in her little green purse.

Looks like we have a juvenile delinquent on our hands!

Results

2010-04-23T09:41:00.000-07:00

The pediatrician called this morning.

Auri is negative!

What a relief...considering all she ever asks to eat is macaroni and cheese and PB&J!

(Don't worry, that's not all she eats that's just all she ever asks for.)

Eden on the other hand had a very slightly elevated antibody level. He said we will just watch her really closely and make sure she stays up in weight. He said that he talked to the G.I. specialists and they said that there isn't much you can do until they are older anyways. We'll just keep an eye on her!

I am way grateful to know though, and to not have to worry about what I am feeding my children every second of every day.

We are a house divided when it comes to food and it looks like I'm the loner! :)

Comment Moderation

2010-04-21T09:12:00.000-07:00

Yeah, I've had a few crazies leave comments on my blog.

Fransisco was my latest.

Sorry Fransisco, but if you don't have anything good or real to say, stay away from my personal blog!

One even had some nasties.

I hate nasties.

I really don't want to have to go private.

Hopefully the comment moderation helps or I might just have to.

Darn spamers.

Doctorie

2010-04-20T18:31:00.000-07:00

I had to take the girls to get their blood tested today. I really think that Auri might have celiac disease too and I thought we might as well have Eden tested at the same time.

We had to wait in the waiting room for like a half hour. I entertained Auri by looking out the window at all the things outside. We looked at all the colors of the cars and counted them. Then we named all the people walking into the building. My favorite was a little girl she named "tinkerbell". Then she proceeded to hide under the chairs, which ended when she started going under other peoples chairs. At this point an oldie gramps got up and moved away from us. She then ate every single one of Edens baby puffs and dumped puff dust all over the chairs.

I was relieved when they finally called our name......not for long though.

The room was small with 5 cubicle stations for drawing blood. Crowded to say the least, and then here I come with my two kids, a mondo car seat and a diaper bag spilling over with things to entertain and distract my varmints. People were looking at me like I was crazy. I was.

When we sat down Auri finally realized we were there for her and that pain was involved. She started crying. I then had to try and console her for about 10 minuets and just as I get her distracted a teenage girl comes up and says to Auri, "See look, it didn't hurt", which just scares Auri more and she cries even louder. Thanks!

Two nurses and I got to hold her down. Finally blood was flowing and soon enough she was done. I thought the crying would stop-it didn't.

At this point a nice granny notices the "fun" I am having and graciously helps me distract Auri. She talked to her about swimming, bikes, jelly beans and preschool. Thank you sweet granny. You really helped me more than you even realized- and help I needed because I was fighting back the tears as they were poking and prodding my second baby. They actually had to poke her twice-the first time they couldn't get the blood to flow. Sad.

Finally we were done.

Auri grabbed her jacket and loudly said "Lets get outta this place!" I'm sure I wasn't the only one who agreed with her completely!

When we were almost to the car she then said-"that place is just too doctorie". Yep, it was.

Way too doctorie for me too.

We should have the results pretty soon. I'll keep ya'll updated.

when daddy comes home

2010-04-15T21:54:00.000-07:00

When dad is home for lunch, we take full advantage of the time we have with him!

Auri and him usually play some silly game like hide and seek (at least10 times) or sing an annoying song at the top of their lungs.

And me and Eden try to steal a smidge of attention away from the little firecracker-and get in a few hugs and kisses.

Oh yeah, and then we eat.

We love our dad!

p.s. notice my greys? I sure do...... Oh well. Natural beauty-right?

Facelift

2010-04-15T21:30:00.000-07:00

The blog has been long over due for a facelift. Still needs some work, but we're getting there.

Poopsie

2010-04-14T22:42:00.000-07:00

Yep.

My endoscopy confirms that I do in fact have Celiac disease.

Bye bye gluten!

I was also told that my colon has a twist to it.

Yipee.

Nothing serious but definitely weird.

Gluten free and high fiber is what the Dr. prescribed.

Much cheaper than any prescriptions.

Thank goodness.

Easter Morn

2010-04-04T22:46:00.000-07:00

Tweet little toots!

Thank goodness the Rabbit left Auri a realistic pink phone-

Now mom and dad won't have to search her bag when ours go missing!

Can you see her little tooth popping through?

It's cute.

Her chocolate eyes are way better than any chocolate Easter bunny I have ever eaten!

Yum.

I love Easter.

I love my family.

I love Jesus.

I know he lives.

Dr.

2010-04-02T15:32:00.000-07:00

So I just got back from the Dr. and he still isn't totally convinced that I have Celiac disease-I guess the only way to be really sure is to get a biopsy. (Although, Im pretty sure.) Also, he was still a little weary about a condition with my colon. So....on the 12th I get to have a endoscopy and a colonoscopy. Hooray. What fun for me. At least I will have some conclusive answers. Oh and I forgot to mention that I get to poop in a cup for 3 days in a row. I'm REALLY excited for that.

Bunny

2010-04-01T11:52:00.001-07:00

I wish this was a picture of me and my mom.

Seriously.

Off the Wheaten Path

2010-03-25T18:55:00.000-07:00

So, I found out what is wrong with me...I have Celiac Disease.

If you're not familiar with what Celiac disease is, it's where you are allergic to anything that has gluten in it...which comes mostly from wheat but can also be from other things.

And you wouldn't believe how many things have wheat in them-it's not just the yummy fluffy sugar cookies and delightfully crusty bubbly pizza that I'm going to miss, but it's hidden everywhere!

Just tonight I had to go the the heath food store to get soy sauce. Did you know soy sauce had wheat in it? I didn't until now. The other day I got through half a bottle of juice before reading the label like I should of, and sure enough...gluten-IN JUICE!!! So yeah, I pretty much read every single label of everything I ingest from now on.

Anyways, I am super grateful that my Dr. was able to figure this out. Some people go a very very long time before being diagnosed and sometimes it's too late. Celiac disease can cause a whole list of tumultuous side affects... including osteoporosis, infertility, arthritis and even cancer. It's crazy to me that I was born with this and am just finding out now that I have this serious condition-but like I said, I am so grateful to know now so that I can control it. Celiac disease is very controllable but you just have to completely cut gluten out from your diet. It can be a hard task but it's definitely worth it to make your body whole again.

So if I come to your house and decline your yummiest cookie or delicious fettuccine please just know that I would love some, but that it's pretty much poison to me. And who loves poison? Not me. Sorry :)

Anyways, 1 in every 133 people have it and like 97% of people who do have it don't know they do. So here is a list of symptoms. I'll put a star by my main symptoms. But if you have a handful of these symptoms and don't know whats wrong and have been feeling poopy, I would suggest being tested.

Abdominal cramps, gas and bloating*
Anemia*
Borborygmi (stomach rumbling)
Coetaneous bleeding
Diarrhea
Easy bruising*
Epitasis (nose bleeding)
Failure to thrive
Fatigue or general weakness*
Flatulence*
Fluid retention
Foul-smelling or grayish stools that are often fatty or oily
Gastrointestinal symptoms*
Gastrointestinal hemorrhage
Hematuria (red urine)
Hypocalcaemia/ hypomagnesaemia*
Infertility
Iron deficiency anemia*
lymphocytic gastritis
Muscle weakness*
Muscle wasting
Nausea
No obvious physical symptoms (just fatigue, overall not feeling well)*
Osteoporosis
Pallor (unhealthy pale appearance)*
Panic Attacks
Peripheral neuropathy (nerve damage)
Stunted growth in children
Vertigo
Vitamin B12 deficiency
Vitamin D deficiency
Vitamin K deficiency
Vomiting
Voracious appetite
Weight loss
Obesity

Also, Celiac disease is hereditary therefore if you are related to me, there is a chance that you could have it too. Im going to have Auri tested as soon as I can.

I'll be honest, I'm a little bummed. But, I am so grateful to know now and to be able to control it. Im sure that I will start feeling better soon and that is a good feeling!

BlahBlahBlah

2010-03-21T22:00:00.000-07:00

I don't know why both of my latest posts have to do with Eden's tongue. I guess I must think its cute! Anyways, heres her new trick. Enjoy the cuteness....especially you grandmas!

Also, I have been having some health issues and just haven't felt like blogging. I think I will start up again though. So blah blah blahg......

Sometimes...

2010-03-08T18:42:00.000-08:00

Sometimes you have to lick your sister.....

to see if she's really as sweet as everyone thinks she is.

Sometimes Eden has her doubts.

till we meet again....

2010-03-02T14:13:00.000-08:00

My Granny Smith passed away February 16th after suffering a massive stroke.

My heart still stings and tears well in my eyes every time I think of her. It's hard to lose someone that you love and admire.

I'm grateful that the last time we were together she got to hold and love on my little girls and that I was able to give her a hug and tell her that I loved her. I get comfort from that memory but I also know that I can be with her again someday, and that is the greatest comfort of all.

Some things I want my kids to know about their Great Grandma:

*Her and Grandpa were married at age 19 (like me) and they had my dad when they were 20.

*She was a great cook but an even better candy maker. Licorice caramels, pecan rolls, mint truffles, key lime white chocolates....were just some of her special treats that I loved. When we were little she would make us a giant chocolate Easter egg with our name on it written in her pretty cursive. She even had her own candy store. Sometimes I would go in and help around the store. I can still smell the way that it smelt.

*Her giggle was childlike and contagious.

* I spent many childhood days swimming in her pool. She would always comment on what a fish I was-always the first one in and the last one out and would praise my swimming abilities. Quite often you could count on Granny getting in and most often in her clothes after she was already sopping wet from getting splashed.

*She loved the color peach.

* She could always laugh at herself and silly things that would happen to her...one of our families favorites is when she not knowingly placed her purse in the lobster tank at Red Lobster when she went to hug her friend that had arrived. Yes, they had to "fish" it out.

* I have several hand written letters she wrote me. I cherish her words of encouragement and praise.

* She Facebooked. I loved getting messages from her. Her last one was inquiring about Eden and if she had gotten over her cold. I will miss those little messages.

* She would often sit around with us kids at her player piano, we'd put on a roll and we would all sing together and move our fingers as if we were really playing it.

...and many more...

(thats me as the caboose of the human train)

With this loss I have also gained strength. A renewed focus on life and what is most important is what I have gained. I hug my loved ones a little tighter and want to do more good for those around me. Thank you Granny for being such a great example of strength and love.

I love you and will miss you....till we meet again.

Auri turns THREE!

2010-02-11T10:30:00.001-08:00

This girl......What to say about this girl?....

She is some kind of wonderful.

She has more personality in her tiny little pinkie than I could ever know what to do with.

She makes me laugh ever day.

She is headstrong.

She keeps me on my toes.

She is sweet as a cupcake.

Crazy as a monkey.

Her smarts surprise me on a daily basis.

(She can write her name, knows her states, ABC's with sounds, shapes and colors....)

Her denim blue eyes melt me.

She is creative and crafty.

She is always singing or humming.

Really, there is so much I could say about this complex little girl, and I could go on bragging forever, but this part is simple; I love her to no end!

Three!!!

Her to a T.

Happy Birtday little babe!

Thanks for being mine and for making my life an adventure!

*Auri was born on my parents anniversary. Lucky for me, I never forget it now, so..........

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY MOM AND DAD! I love you!

SIX months

2010-02-05T08:54:00.000-08:00

Really? My tiny baby is SIX months today? Really?! Oh my gosh, it's gone fast!

This one above is blurry-but I couldn't resist the cuteness!

This girl:

Lights me up.

Loves her sister.

Is so happy and content-most of the time!

Thinks her Daddy is the coolest guy on the planet.

Is one tough cookie-don't mess.

Isn't crawling or sitting up on her own-purely to please her mother (she knows me well....I need my baby to be a baby as long as she will)!

Is a softy soft little butter ball...squishy, soft, yum.

Loves to sleep nestled in between her mum and dad.

Kicks like a crazy woman in her bouncy.

Is finally taking a liking to food.

Soothes herself by scratching skin....mostly her moms skin.

Is pretty much the best!

We love you Eden!

You being a member of our family has brought more joy to us than you will ever realize!

Happy Half Year of Life!

p.s. yeah that's a little scab on the side of her head-I was contemplating photoshopping it out but then I decided I wanted to keep it-She got it from rolling into our book shelf. She's cute!

Christmas......

2010-02-03T11:23:00.000-08:00

I know, I know.....

I'm so late getting these posted it might make you want to barf.

Christmas was great for us though, so I have to share......sorry.

With Great Grandma Lunt. She might as well be called Mrs. Claus. She always makes Christmas special and even at age 8o(ish) she still manages to buy and wrap numerous presents for all her grandchildren. I love her!

With Aunt Tiff-the sweetest person you will ever meet. I promise.

The Fackrell clan-I think Chris got the most this year-Brent did a good job!

Christmas morn. Edens first Christmas and the first Christmas that Auri actually understood it all....such a fun Christmas!

Varooommm....

My best presents ever!

Maybe next year I won't forget my camera and I'll get pictures up right after-not two months later! :)

Merry Christmas!

Auri's Potty Talk

2010-01-27T15:05:00.001-08:00

This post might make you feel better about your child and your parenting skills......

So why is it that my child is already talking potty talk...and not like pee pee or poo poo. Like naughty potty talk.

She's not even 3 yet! I thought this stuff didn't come up till age 5 or 6....Dangit!

Here are some of her favorites as of now....

"Stinky bum bum!"

"Where is that little toot?"

"Let me kiss your butt!" (seriously....naughty-I know!)

"Poopy butt"

Oh and yesterday she couldn't stop singing the song "Every dinosaur poops!" from the show Dinosaur Train.

It doesn't help that Andy can't control his laughter when these ridiculous phrases come out of her mouth,----I'll admit that I laugh every once in a while too.

But,

We have been trying to get her to not use these naughty phrases anymore, but I am finding it hard to tell her not to because I use them too. The context I use them in is different though....like, when I'm changing Eden I say stuff like that. Auri just turns them around and makes them naughty.

So, what am I to do? Just laugh and hope it's just a phase? Discipline more?

and,

How on earth do I get her to understand that she can't talk like that in public especially at church?

*You better just cover your child's ears if you see Auri coming your way. I'm sorry :)

Celebrity Collage by MyHeritage

2010-01-27T13:03:00.001-08:00

MyHeritage: Family tree - Genealogy - Celebrity - Collage - Morph

I was incredibly bored and saw a link to this and decided to try it. I just thought it was funny enough to share because there are two Asians in the mix-my high school friends use to say that I looked Asian but I never believed them. I guess I was wrong. Oh and yeah right-like I even resemble Eva Longoria! Plus I was shocked that Aerosmith wasn't in the mix!

Rut a tut tut

2010-01-13T12:15:00.000-08:00

So if you haven't noticed, I've kinda been in a rut. Noting major. Just haven't felt like blogging. And things are making it hard to want to....like:

*I left my camera in Utah- so no Christmas pictures.

*I've had sick kids....mostly Eden-croup-blah...all she wants is to be held ALL day...and night.

*My house is overwhelmed-trying to figure out where all our Christmas loot should live, has proven difficult for our tiny boundaries. I guess I need to dejunk.

*Oh and since Andy is back in school, my "close to single" parenting has returned which can be very challenging at times.

wah wah wah.......

oh yeah more whining....

Im feeling the holiday bulge.

Im hoping to get 30 day shred or something-anything soon!!!

With Andy's schedule it's so hard for me to work out unless it's at home, so I think I'm going the DVD workout route.

Anyone have any feedback on the shred or know of any other kick butt workouts?

I beg you, let me know!

Sorry for the lameness. I will try for my next post to not be as depressing.

Auri and the States

2009-12-14T16:53:00.000-08:00

Sorry for the brag moment here but, I think my little toot is pretty darn smart! This was filmed like two weeks after I had Eden (you can hear her newborn baby noises in the background), so it's been a while since this was recorded. She might not know them as well now as she did here. We need to practice. :) Emphasis on "WE", she knows them better here than I do.

Sketchy Santa's

2009-12-10T22:56:00.001-08:00

Creepiest Santa ever?

I think so.

Need a good holiday laugh...go here.

Bilibo

2009-12-05T13:32:00.000-08:00

Such a fun toy.

I think Auri might have to get one for her birthday.

Get them here.

Calico Critters

2009-12-03T21:58:00.000-08:00

Ok. I have totally slacked on my gift giving ideas.....um yeah. Once a week is a bit much for me I guess ;)

Anyways, here is something that I would love to get for Auri, but secretly I really want them for me. I don't think I will ever grow up when it comes to adorable tiny things.

Calico Critters are a bit pricey but if you look at the detail and quality I think that they are totally worth the money. I've seen these in person and they are super cute and well made. Each set runs around 20 dollars.

I found them here.

So Blessed!

2009-12-02T20:53:00.000-08:00

I am SOOOO blessed to have Eden in my life!

Love her!

Thanks to everyone who made it to her blessing-it was such a special day for us!

Present

2009-12-02T20:20:00.001-08:00

Santa is bringing me this.

It's a planner/calander/cutest thing ever.

Im going to use it as my journal too.

Get one for you here.

Eden's Blessing

2009-11-16T13:43:00.000-08:00

Eden's blessing will take place at the Fackrell residence
Sunday the 29th
11:00 a.m.
Brunch to follow.

You are invited
Please come
:)

Eden's Birth Announcment/Blessing Invite

2009-11-12T20:48:00.000-08:00

Totally like me to put the wrong date. Woops.

Friends and family please come.

If you didn't get one in the mail it is because I am poor-but I still love you and you are invited!

Sunday the 29th.

Call us for more info.

It will be a blessed occasion.

Stuck again....

2009-11-12T20:30:00.000-08:00

**I promise I wouldn't take these pictures if she was in pain or danger.

She just can't get out and I think its funny!

I know, I'm mean.

Dylan

2009-11-12T20:06:00.001-08:00

Such a cute little stinker.

Dylan is Auri's buddy from church.

This kid has got some spunk-I love it!

Auri must love it too because she is always talking about Dylan!

Me and his mom started a preschool for all the little kids in our neighborhood.

We are bummed we are going to miss her lesson next week "T-is for Turkey"!

Thanks for being our friends you guys!

The Larsons

2009-11-12T19:31:00.001-08:00

This is the Larson family.

I should include some of the outtakes from this session-they are funny!

Such little busy body kids.

Blue drool.

Pee on an arm.

Pulling headbands off....

I loved it because it reminded me of my own little family trying to get a decent picture.

I think these still turned out really cute-I hope you do too!

Halloween

2009-11-07T15:57:00.000-08:00

It really is way late to post these, but people keep asking to see them-so here they are.

We spent Halloween with Matt and Niki and their family.

When we first got to Matt and Niki's we made sugar cookies with the kids.

Best sugar cookies ever...cream cheese frosting.... delicious.

They had so much fun.

It was messy but well worth it.

Mia stood on the table. I thought it was funny, hence the picture.

And....

Auri probably has worms from consuming too much cookie dough.

Then we ate a yummy dinner.

White chicken chilli that Matt made.... it had more cream cheese...yum.

Then we got dressed in our costumes.

Me and Andy were super lame this year and didn't dress up.

I love to dress up and was bummed that I procrastinated getting a costume together.

I had great plans in my head for Auri's costume too, but they never came to pass.

I bought her a cheap princess dress that was too big-lucky for her, her cousin Mia had a dress that was too little, so they swapped. Mia wore Auri's-Auri wore Mia's. It worked wonderfully. They were little princess nerds-oh well, maybe next year Auri can be the cute little owl I have stored in my brain.

Eden was a cute, little, plump Strawberry.

I ate her throughout the night.

She is yummy.

The Simpson Family......Niki went all out on their costumes!- Opposite of me. :)

All the little Fackrell urchins + Andy

(Andy had to hold Eden in all the pictures because Auri wouldn't hold her good)

Auri caught on to Halloween in a flash.

She had the time of her life.

Her and her dad sang "this is Halloween-this is Halloween"over and over as they walked down the street.

It was cute.

At several doorsteps, she won people over and got multiple treats from them.

Eden slept through it all...if only she knew what she was missing! ;)

We had SO MUCH FUN!!!

Thanks Matt and Niki for letting us crash there and spend Halloween with you!

Sometimes...

2009-11-06T10:00:00.000-08:00

....our chairs grow legs....

.....or Auri gets stuck.

3 Months

2009-11-05T20:19:00.000-08:00

I am so blessed to have Eden in my life.

Her smile lights up my heart.

(and it's a bonus because she smiles at me all the time!)

Her soft squishy body is what I love to cuddle most.

Her smell is the best smell in the world.

She calms me.

She comforts me.

"Love tears" well in my eyes just thinking about how much I love her.

Happy 3 months Eden!

(I took these pictures today-actual 3 month old day)

Just some things she does @ 3 months:

She is almost rolling over.

She loves snuggling in nursing position.

She arches her back in her bouncy seat when she doesn't want to be in it.

She squeels.

She says my favorite baby word "aa-goo"

She giggles.

She is ticklish mostly under her collar bone and thighs.

She is wearing some 6 months clothing. Chunky=yum.

She holds her head up and can sit in the bumbo.

p.s. she is growing up too fast!

Maddi-Seniors

2009-11-03T21:26:00.001-08:00

We use to hang out back in the day.

She was like 6ish.

My friends little sister is friends with Maddie.

So we were friends-

except us older girls would kind of pick on the younger girls.

Sorry.

In my second life, I would like to look like Maddie and have her wardrobe. ;)

They Might Be Giants

2009-11-03T13:29:00.000-08:00

Pumpkin Patch

2009-11-01T19:55:00.001-08:00

This poor little pumpkin didn't know what it was getting into when Auri picked it out.

It has been dropped about 50 times-(Im sure our downstairs neighbors love it).

It has gone for about 10 tricycle rides around the living room.

It has lost it's stem.

It has had a toenail jabbed into it...(mine-it hurt too).

It has lived in many various places-like under the table.

It has been heard a Halloween jingle or two.

and....

It has been thoroughly enjoyed!

Such a "California-ish" pumpkin patch.

These where the two cutest pumpkins in the whole patch!

I picked them!

Happy Fall!

Sneak Peak

2009-10-29T08:49:00.000-07:00

Such a pretty girl.

More pics of her coming soon!

Tin Toys

2009-10-28T14:26:00.000-07:00

Seeing how Christmas will be here before we know it-

I will be posting my favorite gift ideas here.

Once a week-something that I think would be rad to give or to receive.

This week-Tin toys.

So nastalgic looking. So cute. Great to play with or decorate with.

All toys found here.

The Smiths

2009-10-26T09:56:00.000-07:00

This is my brother and his cute family!

Oooo....I just love them!

Ben

Emmy

Abby

They really are twins, they're just nothing alike-besides both being DARN cute!

Sweaty Fall

2009-10-20T15:20:00.000-07:00

Im sitting here in California and I am sweaty. Yugh.

Im really wishing I could time travel back a few weeks ago and be at my cabin in Utah.

It is seriously one of my favorite places in this whole world.

It was such a nice time going up there.

Fall there is like heaven.

The quakies make my heart happy.

So do these girls.

Eden "Maureen" with her namesake.

My Granny.

Love them!

I think that the rest of October (and into November), I'll just have to look at these pictures while eating a popsicle-and maybe, just maybe it will feel like fall.

Kings of Convenience

2009-10-19T09:29:00.000-07:00

Here's something to get you going this week!

Me and Auri move and shake to this!

Kinzi

2009-10-16T12:56:00.001-07:00

This is Kinzi and she is such a sweetheart!

She was so good during the shoot and we even took these during her nap time.

Isn't she a doll?

*When we went over to Kinzi's house to play one day, Auri kept calling her "Kansas".

I don't know why.

Thanks "Kansas" for being such a sweet little model!

Traecen

2009-10-14T11:23:00.000-07:00

It's taken FOREVER to get these here-darn computer-I was still pregnant with Eden when I took these.

Sorry.

This is Traecen.

Such a sweet chubby little guy!

Him and his family moved shortly after I took these pictures.

We miss you guys!

*Brandi email me your address so I can send these to you.

kyleefackrell@yahoo.com

Raining

2009-10-13T20:45:00.000-07:00

It's raining right now and 'boy o boy' is it refreshing.

It hasn't rained here in Southern California for---- like ever!

I haven't realized how much I have missed it.

Ahhhh....and the smell. Yum.

Also, I have a new computer equipped with photoshop.

Thank you family.

You are kind and generous.

Now I feel like myself again.

Fall is here....(kind of----for California anyways)

Isn't it just the best.

The colors.

The smells.

The wardrobe.

The food.

Trader Joes Pumpkin Pancake Mix.

I swear, my heart is happier in the fall.

I am refreshed.

Good posts to come.

Whales

2009-10-12T08:09:00.000-07:00

Here is a delightful story from Auri's adventures in potty training.

After doing her duty-she looks down and says-"LOOK, a whale!"

(And yes, it looked like a whale.)

Then as I was wiping her she slipped and I couldn't catch her in time and she squished the poor little whale in her hand.

(Squished whale is not fun to clean up.)

Poor whale.

In honor of our deceased whale friend, here is a kindergarten classic to enjoy.

Japanese Design

2009-09-23T19:18:00.000-07:00

Why am I so obsessed with Japanese design right now?

Mostly craft stuff.

SUCH cute stuff!!!

I might have to get some of these pattern books for Christmas!

All images from Etsy.

Fanfarlo

2009-09-23T14:58:00.000-07:00

A new gem for your listening pleasure.

They also just released their debut album.

More here @ fanfarlo.com.

*After watching "The Walls Are Coming Down" I couldn't resist putting this on here too. I think I found a new favorite band....for now anyways. :)

Princess Fairy Belt

2009-09-08T21:54:00.000-07:00

We are stuck at home A LOT.

We get bored A LOT.

We have been crafting A LOT.

Today we made this princess fairy belt, bracelet and hair clip.

To be honest, she doesn't even really like them and wore them for the duration of the pictures and that's about it.

She is kind of a little toot these days.

This is her best..... "princess smile"!

But this little princess really is showing her princess smile!

(I seriously cannot stand how dark these pictures are unedited...I guess I need to work on my camera skills too!)