The Marchant Family

Announcement!

2011-12-26T11:15:00.001-08:00

For all those that don't know yet...We are PREGNANT!

I am so excited for another little one! This will be my 5th pregnancy (Connor, miscarriage, Colby, miscarriage). We have been hoping and trying for the last 2 years for another, but things don't always go as expected! I am so happy for our family and I am grateful for a loving Heavenly Father who knows what we need, when we need it. I am 12 weeks along now, and although I am sick most of the time, I am feeling good and know all the icky results in such a wonderful blessing. I will try to keep you posted more on our happenings, including posting soon about Christmas!

February...and a little March on the side.

2011-03-05T14:48:00.000-08:00

Previous Month Recap (click on the pictures if they are hard to see)-

February seemed to fly by. We had a lot of fun though. These pictures are not really in order, but they give you a good idea of what we (mostly the kids) have been up to.

Near the END of the month...it SNOWED! It was crazy. I was ready for spring and all the sudden there was snow. It was a lot of fun, because David didn't have to go to work and we had a whole day (that is as long as it lasted before melting) to play together! We played for awhile in our yard with our awesome neighbors and then headed to Grandma and Grandpa Marchant's to play with cousins.

Colby liked the snow more than I thought he would and lasted longer than I thought he would. He is a trooper.

Connor and Andrew tried to get Alan with a snowball. The plan backfired!

I think this is the cutest picture ever (Thanks Tina). All the older cousins are trying to get Colby back up the hill. I love it!

Colby LOVED being on the sleds. He could relax and watch every one else get tired.

Colby has a new favorite thing: falling down. He climbs on EVERYTHING and falls ALL the time. He also likes to run into doors and walls. Seriously...this kid is CRAZY! Today alone he has two new bonks on the head. What am I going to do with him?

David and I invited my parents over for game night. It is always fun when they come over. They are fun and crazy (like me!). I love them too much...and so do my kids.

We inherited a Hot Tub from David's parents, who didn't use it anymore. We go in ALL the time. The boys love it. This particular time I decided to spike Colby's hair to see how long it really was. I gave him a hair cut the next day.

Connor and I made masks. He picked out a mask book from the Library and just HAD to make one.

My Mom's 4th grade class has swimming lessons this month, so she had Jessica and I bring the grandson's to swim. They loved it. (cousin Jet and Connor)

Colby was having a grand old time until I put a life jacket on him. He got flipped over onto his stomach with his head in the water and the life jacket was holding him in that position. It was very scary, as he was flailing around for awhile! Right when I saw him I ran in (clothes and all) and picked up a screaming, very scared little guy. It took a lot of coxing to get him to play again.

We got to host Connor's preschool group again. He loves pre-school and all the kids in it. He is on this marriage kick (silly kid), and frequently tells me that he might one day marry one of the girls from pre-school (or Olivia). I tell him he needs to think about 4 year old things and worry about who he will marry AFTER his mission. You hear lots of Moms say their daughters are 4 going on 16...well, that is Connor. He is a very smart, and grown up boy. Sometimes I wish he didn't catch on to things so fast.

This particular day we learned about Polar Bears and hibernation. The kids got to pretend they were Bears and hibernate under the kitchen table. They had lots of fun!

We had a Potty Party for Colby! I want to get him ready for potty training, and with so many friends in the same boat, I thought it would be fun to get together. Don't laugh at my game. I think it is AWESOME! haha.

Here is the gang doing the Potty Dance!

And here is my little Colby pretending to go in the potty. He loves to sit on the toilet as long as he has something to read. Takes after Daddy I guess :).

We did a Potty coloring page and also had snacks. It was a fun time. I love that I can get together with friends and their kids since we are all in the same stage in life.

I am excited for what the next month will bring and I HOPE it will fly by because...HAILEY WILL BE HOME ON APRIL 7th. YAHOO! I will keep you posted.

Grandpa's Funeral and a Birthday

2011-01-31T07:31:00.000-08:00

My Grandpa Durfee (77) passed away on January 18th! It was unexpected and we all miss him so much. He was an amazing man. He was loved by all. He had a way of making everyone feel like they were important...the center of his world. I was his favorite (but the other 13 grandkids would say the same about themselves). All of us felt like a favorite around him. He is so missed, and without the knowledge of Heavenly Father's plan, I would be having a much much harder time dealing with his death. I am so excited and happy that I know I will be able to see him, hug him and talk to him again. What a blessing truth is!

Grandpa LOVED horses and we were always able to ride when we went to visit.

I am so sad that my children won't know Grandpa as they grow, but I am so happy that they got to meet this great man.

Even the Great-Grand Kids had turns with the horses. YeeHaw!

This is a random picture. Colby wanted to help us paint the bathroom. So we gave him a brush with no paint on it. He was so excited to help.

My parents, myself and the kids traveled over the the funeral in Idaho together. Both boys were so great! Colby just sat there and only cried a few times. We were VERY lucky!

He has the cutest little expressions.

My cousin Melissa made two scrapbooks for my Grandma. We all pitched in, but she did the majority of the work. One had memories of Grandpa from each child, grandchild, and great-grandchild w/ pictures. The other included photos from throughout his life.

Melissa and I

Although it was a very sad time. It was so fun to see all my cousins. It feels like they are my siblings! I loved spending time with them.

Tyler and I (we have an ongoing double-chin contest going on!)

Stephanie and I

Abby and I

Tracen (Melissa's hubby) and I

Chad, Me and Kacy

NEXT: CONNOR TURNED 4

Colby enjoyed watching Connor open presents from atop the table. We call Colby Mayhem (have you seen the All State commercials??). It is the perfect name for the little guy.

Connor loves his baseball shirt he got from my parents. He is a little athlete.

Grandpa Durfee, Colby, Connor and Grandma Durfee.

On the Friday after his birthday, we took the boys to Chuck E' Cheese for Connor's birthday. They had a great time!

Bob, Colby and Connor

Colby's messy face after church.

Colby's messy face after cake and ice cream

On Saturday evening we had the family over for cake and ice cream. It is great to have an insta-party with family. Connor loved the attention.

David, cousin Andrew and Connor (these boys are about 6 months apart and LOVE to play together)

Colby's messy face at Chuck E' Cheese (wow...these are out of order!!)

We have had a great month! Quite a bit of sadness and quite a bit of happiness. Without the sour, we wouldn't know the sweet. I am thankful for my family, the fun we have together and the Plan of Happiness!

Christmas Happenings

2011-01-07T18:36:00.000-08:00

Here are some of our Christmas happenings. Enjoy...though not necessarily in order!

Connor and his pre-school friends (Me and 4 other mom's kids) got to do a nativity skit. It was great. Connor got to be Joseph and E. was Mary.

Here are a few more kiddos (minus one who was up and moving around)

E. as Mary, Connor as Joseph, V. as an Angel, and E. as a Shepherd.

Our Christmas Tree!

On Christmas Eve we had a great time! We went to Splash during the day (the boys loved that)! Connor even went down the slide a few times all by himself! Next we went and got pizza for dinner. We stopped by Nanny's house (my grandma) and Connor received a surprise gift of 2 fish and 2 crab! He thinks they are pretty neat! We talked a little about Jesus and read some scriptures and off to be the boys went.

Our home teacher, Brother Knerr, brought us a Ginger Bread Cookie to decorate. We left it for Santa.

Santa sure was hungry! The boys surveyed the damaged and then added to it!

My mom did a great family Christmas program a few days before Christmas. We got this Nativity Scene coloring page. We all had fun coloring it together.

CHRISTMAS MORNING!!

Connor wanted a Remote Control Car "with a fast speed button and a slow button and a stop button". Santa must have been listening!

He has also been asking for rain boots so he can puddle jump!

Colby didn't care too much for the toys Santa got him (at the time),

but he enjoyed his stocking!

Daddy did a good job of helping Colby!

Both boys got sleeping bags too! What lucky kids!

Next...Off to Grandma and Grandpa Durfee's house

My parents have a life size Santa that sings and dances. Though apprehensive at first, the boys ALL love it. They are always pushing his button so they can dance, dance, dance!

We had everyone home but Hailey! We really miss her! It was nice to have my Grandpa and Grandma Durfee! They got the boys pillow pets (something Connor has been asking for too!)

One of the things we got my parents was a picture calendar!

And Finally...off to Grandma and Grandpa Marchant's house we went...

We were able to get the kids in some nativity costumes that Sheryl made! The kids are too young to really act out anything (Connor was the oldest there at 3). Poor Andrew was sick and didn't get to come over. We all felt so bad for him.

Leslie, Blair, David and I got (made) Sheryl aprons for Christmas. One for her (yellow), and one for each of the grandkids. She loves to cook with them. Andrew (purple), Connor (green), Brooke (pink), Colby (orange), Nyah (red) and Michael (blue). Leslie did all the sewing...I just helped cut and pin. They turned out great and she loved them!

RANDOM...

My boys are great helpers. They help me take the clothes out of the dryer and put them on the couch to fold. Colby takes an item and passes it to Connor who takes it to the couch. They have so much fun helping together.

Colby (who we call Mayhem), has a new favorite spot. The Toy Box! Don't you love the brotherly love??

Daddy and Connor made a fort. Connor took a nap in it.

Pretty good fort eh?

Here is a picture from our ward Christmas party! It was fun, but Connor was a little scared to take a picture with Santa. Like my tacky Christmas Sweater?

We had a great holiday and feel so blessed!

Life is awesome!

Christmas is Coming

2010-12-06T08:23:00.001-08:00

We are so excited for Christmas-time! I love it I love it I love it! The boys love it too.

To start off, here is a picture of the boys in the sled when we had our 1/8 inch of snow! Yippie! They thought it was awesome! Connor declared, "Mom, it is Christmas today! It snowed!" I had to set him straight, and he was obviously a little disappointed.

We had a wonderful Thanksgiving (at David's parents home). It was a great day, and I have no pictures to show for it...oops!

We (Connor and I) decorated for Christmas before Thanksgiving. Sad...I know! But don't judge me, because I like Christmas decorations around my house! Besides, they are down on Jan. 1st. I would rather put them up early than leave them up through January. Here are a few pictures of the boys before church last week.

Colby is loving all the Lights, Ornaments, etc! I am not loving that he is loving them SO much. He takes AT LEAST 5 ornaments off the tree each day. Ugh.

I know it is blurry, but I just love this picture!

Connor is a pro at the Christmas thing. He is such a good boy. Two weeks ago he passed off the last of the 13 Articles of Faith. We are so proud of him and he is very proud of himself. We have now started working on Jesus' Chrismas Present. Connor and I are memorizing "The Living Christ" proclamation. We are about 1/6 of the way through. I am amazed at how quickly he learns and memorizes things. He is excited to say "The Living Christ" to Jesus on Christmas morning!

Connor was such a good boy trying to pose with Colby over and over so we could get a good shot of them both! This is the best we got. Colby is a mover and a shaker and is almost impossible to pose for a picture!

He sure thought the tree was awesome! He didn't, however,like that I didn't let him help wrap presents! He was quite mad at me as you can see below!

I love my boys! They are awesome. I am so excited to spend the holidays with them! Yahoo!

Catching Up...WAY UP!

2010-10-31T19:07:00.001-07:00

BEWARE---LOTS OF PICTURES!

So...it has been 2 months since I last posted. Pathetic...I know. This is my catch-up post in no particular order.

ENJOY

David has been carving elaborate pumpkins the last few years. This year's project...OUR FAMILY! Our friend took family photos for us. We used those as inspiration. Below are the pumpkins and some of the wonderful pictures Erin took.

Connor and Colby

I love the pictures Erin took of the boys. They really capture their personalities.

David and Lindsay

I know, we are good-looking. Don't need to tell me! hehe.

Love this one, and love Colby!

Connor ALWAYS picks flowers for me. He is such a gentleman. He even opens doors. What a catch!

My handsome husband. Erin did quite a photo shoot for David. He was enjoying being a model for the day!

We are a happy family! Love it!

Before Halloween (Friday), we went to the Springfield City Center Offices with Leslie (sister-in-law), her son Michael, our friend Andrea and her son Cooper (he is the cute cowboy). We had a good time together and the boys (No girls for any of us yet...and Andrea is due with another boy in 4 weeks) got a little extra Trick or Treat time in since Halloween was on a Sunday and we weren't going to be going on the Sabbath.

left to right: Leslie, Michael, Colby, Connor, Cooper

Me and the boys. Colby's hood didn't stay on took long. He couldn't stand it...can ya blame him?

Leslie and little Michael (who has the longest, prettiest eyelashes in the world!)

Crazy Connor. I just love his silly personality. He always makes me laugh and keeps life interesting. Right now he is stuck on saying knock knock jokes (which he makes up himself).

Some of his favorites:

Knock Knock

Whose There?

Jerry

Jerry Who?

Jerry Cragos!

(Don't ask who Jerry Crago is, because I don't know)

Knock Knock

Whose There?

Rock

Rock who?

Rock lets get the chalk, lets get it around the clock!

(?????????)

Knock Knock

Whose there?

Leaf

Leaf who?

Leaf me alone!

(The ONLY one that makes sense thanks to mom!)

I got to go the the Oregon/UCLA game with Chad and my Dad. It was awesome. I had so much fun. Funny: Chad came straight from work and didn't think through the whole we are playing UCLA thing! What did he wear to work AND the game...a UCLA blue shirt. I almost died! He is silly. I am so excited because I get to go with my parents to the next few home games. Yahoo!!!! I am so excited. Being in Autzen Stadium is awesome.

Me and my brother...who I love. He is awesome and I am so glad he doesn't live far away anymore!

Connor and his pre-school friends had a field trip to the pumpkin patch. Four of my friends and their kids are doing a pre-school co-op. Once every 5 weeks we get to host pre-school at our house on two days (only 2 hours). Connor is LOVING it!

Connor is getting ready to look for a pumpkin. He got to pick whatever one he could carry. He found one, but ended up switching when we got back to the main farm stand after the hay ride. He went from a classic round one to a lumpy bumpy one as he called it.

left to right: Jude, Violet (in preschool), Ellie (in preschool), Connor, Andrew, Connor.

Only 3 of the 5 preschool kids made it, but we had a blast.

My mom was so nice to come with us to help with Colby. Anyone that knows Colby knows that he needs undivided attention. He likes to run away and explore. When you call for him to come to you, he RUNS the opposite direction. Gotta love Colby!

Here is Colby roaming...like always. This time he found a stick and he had a blast exploring. There were animals at the farm (a donkey, goats, pigs, ducks and hens). Colby went up to each animal and mooed like a cow. That is the only animal sound he knows besides a dog, so I guess he just wanted to talk to the animals!

We got to host pre-school for the week of Halloween. On Monday, we had normal pre-school. This is a picture of what Connor looked like welcoming his friends in the morning. On Wednesday we had a Halloween party and the kids dressed up. We had a good time.

We were able to have the missionaries over to carve pumpkins. They wanted to carve a picture of the mission president and wife, so David offered to teach them. We love having the missionaries over...especially Connor. He is excited to me a missionary.

Connor and his pumpkin. He is trying to mimic his lumpy bumpy pumpkin's face.

Here are our awesome missionaries working hard!

We wanted to take advantage of the beautiful September and October weather we have been blessed with before the rain. We were able to go on lots of walks in the last two months. The boys both love being outside.

Connor posing at the park.

Colby, on a rare occasion when he actually enjoyed swinging.

Getting ready to walk to the park. We are lucky to have 3 parks within walking distance!

Ok...this next picture may make you laugh, but I HAD to. I want a girl baby (I still love my boys though!!). My mom, Jessica (sister-in-law) and I decided to dress up Colby and Jet (Colby's cousin who is only 3 weeks older) in a dress. Colby was so cute and looked just like me as a baby. hehe. He would be such a cute girl. Sorry Colby!

Isn't he...I mean she cute?

Some silly pictures:

Colby enjoying some bread. He LOVES to eat...ALL the time. Sometimes I just don't feel like making him anything, so he gets bread. He doesn't mind, obviously!

On this day I told Connor to go take a nap. I told him he could pick his bed or my bed. This is what I found when I went upstairs. I was surprised, because usually he sleeps with MAYBE one stuffed animal. It must have taken him a little planing to carry all his "friends", some toys and books in to my room for his nap.

David and I have gone to the temple a record # of times (for us) this year. I am pretty sure we have gone 6 times now. We always have fun together and I love getting to spend a whole day with him, without the kids, every now and then. We have been lucky to have friends and family go with us on many of these trips!

Waiting for our food at Claim Jumper. We love this place.

Leslie, Blair and Jessica got to come with us this time!

(Leslie and Blair are married. Leslie is David's sister. Jessica and Blair are siblings. Jessica is married to my brother. Weird! Love it!)

Colby's Birthday (Late)

2010-08-30T07:55:00.000-07:00

My sweet little Colby turned 1 year old this month (the 6th). I can't believe I am so bad at posting lately. We had a great time. We had all our family members over to celebrate with a BBQ, Cake and ice cream, fireworks and roasting marshmallows. Colby had a grand old time.

Here is my little birthday boy! I love him SO MUCH!!

David helping Colby open his presents. This picture reminds me of David's silly personality so much. I just had to post it. He makes my life fun and interesting.

Then there is goof-ball Connor. He needed some camera time and made about a bajillion silly faces for me to take pictures of.

Just a cute smile this time.

Tina and Alan had to have a photo opp.

The older kids loved helping Colby unwrap his presents, in fact, after a few presents they were trying to open them themselves. I don't think Colby minded, but it was funny. At one point I looked over and Andrew (cousin) had opened an entire present by himself.

I thought this was a great picture of Connor and Andrew. They are so close in age and love to play together...most of the time.

Cousin Jet had to get in on the action. What a cutie!

This is the cake I made for Colby. I am not a professional, but the kids loved it because the carousel actually spun around.

Colby devoured his extra large cupcake. I was not surprised. This kid can EAT! In fact, lately he has been eating so much he will throw up afterwards. I know that sounds bad, but he keeps whining and acting like his is hungry, so I give him more. Silly guy.

While we were eating dinner, Colby kept climbing up on the table and stealing all the other kids' food. Told you he likes to eat!

We had a wonderful day! It was great to get everyone together (though it does seem to happen often). Colby is a great little guy. At his 1 year Dr. appt he was 19lbs and 2 oz (4th percentile...though I don't know how with how he eats.) He was right in the middle of the scale for height and head but I don't remember the exact #s. What a great little boy!

Fun with a Spoon!

2010-07-26T11:40:00.000-07:00

The other day, I let Colby feed himself with a spoon for the first time. Of course, I decided to give him oatmeal (possibly the messiest food you can give a baby!). With Connor I was a little more careful and didn't let him do much with a spoon for quite awhile. I decided to try something a little different with Colby. Besides, he is a little dare devil! He loved it and only used the spoon for a short time! He decided it was easier to let the spoon hang in his mouth while he used his fingers to shove oatmeal in. He is such a cutie.

Fun with Friends

2010-07-26T11:33:00.001-07:00

Connor and Colby have been able to have a few friends come over to swim! They love it!

Here they are with the Booren boys! ALL BOYS. Drew, Joel and Sam.

My friends Sarah, Kim and Andrea also brought their kids over for a swim. Connor loved it, as did I! It was great to see everyone and their kiddos. (Photo taken by Sarah...I stole it).

The Book of Mormon

2010-07-06T17:24:00.000-07:00

We recently had a lesson in Sunday School about how the Book of Mormon is important for people of all ages...even infants. We learned that everyone can feel the spirit that is felt as the words in the Book of Mormon are read. Connor is 3, and definitely not an infant, but I really do have a testimony that it is important to teach your children early.

Throughout our marriage, David and I have not been very good at having a family scripture study. A few months ago, we decided to start and read 10 verses a day. We have missed a few days, but try our best to get it done. After the first week, Connor would come into our room and say, "Its time for scripture study." He always wants to say the opening prayer and ask Heavenly Father to help us learn.

We read about Lehi and his dream a few weeks ago. That was followed by Nephi praying to see the same dream. Heavenly Father answered his prayer.

Today, a few weeks after reading that story, Connor made some interesting comments at breakfast time. He looked at me and said,"Mom, I am going to say my prayer to Heavenly Father tonight and ask him if I can see Nephi's dream." I told him that he could ask Heavenly Father that if he wanted to. Then he said, "Well, then I can talk to the Lamb of God." Now, in Nephi's dream he did not talk to the Lamb of God, but that is just another bit of scripture that Connor picked up. It was so cute, and I felt really good as a parent at that moment. Sometimes I worry about what will happen to my children with all the wickedness in the world. Will they fall away or will they be strong? As I looked at Connor today, I had this feeling that as long as I do my part and teach them, they will be ok.

I am happy to say that I KNOW a 3 year old can understand scripture, even if it is in a much smaller scale than the rest of us. This isn't the first time Connor has commented randomly about something we read about in the Book of Mormon or Bible. I love it! I am really going to keep this up!

I love Summer time!

2010-07-06T17:00:00.000-07:00

SUMMER TIME

Connor loves helping Daddy!

I just love Summer! It is so nice to be able to be out of the house. We have loved it this summer especially because we finally have a yard that is not just dirt and weeds. We have been spending a lot of time outdoors, gardening, doing yard work, cutting and stacking our wood pile (I am SO glad that project is done), having BBQ s, roasting marshmallows, and playing in the pool.

Grandma and Grandpa with the babies.

Yummy marshmallows

The boys are loving summer time too. Colby has no fear. He loves swimming, even in cold hose water only minutes old, crawling on grass and concrete, and eating dirt and grass. We cannot simply set him somewhere and expect him to stay. As soon as we turn our heads, he is eating something that should not be eaten.

Connor is so full of life. He wants to be just like Daddy. We are so glad his Great Grandma Nanny got him some kid yard tools. He is always helping us with his rake, shovel, hoe and wheelbarrow. It is so cute. He is also the best kid dancer I have ever seen. He loves dancing. He is also loving that he can play sports in the backyard. He is an excellent little baseball player. He can hit the ball about 1/2 the time! He has a great little batter stance too.

I am so glad we still have 2 months of summer to go!

Fishing

2010-06-12T09:38:00.000-07:00

THIS is why we love to live in Oregon.

Today we went fishing up at Leaburg lake. It is a free fishing day and we thought that it would be fun to take Connor fishing for the first time. We caught a fish on the first cast.
It was a really beautiful day and we caught three fish.

Sunday Afternoon

2010-05-16T18:08:00.000-07:00

This was today's Sunday afternoon fun! When we start laughing it is because of Connor's comment, "It looks like you are wearing a little dress"

(We were bored...okay!)

My Boys and Crawling

2010-05-04T08:21:00.000-07:00

Here are some pictures of my boys! I love them to death! They are awesome.

Watching a movie

Sunday Dinner and Grandma and Grandpa's house.

Colby is crawling! This was taken a few days ago. He is cruising now!

Sleepover!

2010-04-30T19:54:00.000-07:00

Connor has been excited ALL week! His cousin Andrew was able to come over and have a sleepover tonight! Andrew and Connor love to play together. We decided to have a Drive-In!

-Here are some pictures.

Look at these two cuties!

We had pizza for dinner! I realized even more that Connor is annoying at meal time. He just doesn't like to eat dinner, but will complain about an hour afterward that he is hungry. We have started setting an alarm for 15 minutes. If he doesn't finish in that time, he doesn't finish, but he doesn't get any more later. Andrew ate 2 pieces and Connor complained and whined until he FINALLY finished one!

Before dinner I had the boys play a game together. They had to match the animal pictures to the animal names. Andrew would find the picture and Connor would find the name. They are learning how to figure out the beginning sounds. If I said "cow", Connor was able to find the word because he could tell it started with a C (They helped eachother if they were having trouble). If they matched, they earned play money. After dinner they were able to buy snacks for their Drive-In movie!

Connor is paying me for a snack. Cookies, starburst, gummy worms and hershey kisses were worth $2. Marshmallows, fruit snacks, gummy bears and crackers were $1 (Expensive...I know!). Don't worry,they didn't spend ALL that money! They both decided they had purchased enough snacks and they didn't want to buy too many and get a tummy ache!

Concession Stand

Here they are enjoying their their snacks while parked at the Drive-In.

Connor has a little tent set up in his room for them to camp in tonight.

I will try to remember to take a picture and post it!

Colby Videos

2010-04-13T07:52:00.000-07:00

Idaho

2010-04-05T13:56:00.000-07:00

During Spring Break, Connor, Colby, my Dad and I all decided to go to Idaho to visit my Grandparents. It was a last minute decision, and I am glad we went. Connor loved it! Both boys were sick right up until we left, but I think the 9 hour drive actually did them both good! Colby slept most of the way (both ways), and Connor was a little chatter box. He just enjoyed kicking back and talking our ears off! It really was an enjoyable drive.
It was nice to get to spend time with my grandparents. Kacy was able to come down for a night and Connor loved seeing her! Kacy and I actually got along better than we ever have. We had a blast and couldn't stop laughing! While we were there, we helped with yard work, rode horses, went to 2 of my favorite restaurants, watched basketball and had a great time! Connor didn't want to come home. Well, he did want to come home once! He talked to my mom on the phone and she told him that when he got home she would take him to McDonald's. He responded, "I want to come home NOW!" He is a sucker for McDonald's! Here are some pictures of the trip:

Sahalie Falls

This is a Sinclair Dinosaur. We went through the town my dad grew up in (Bliss). The blacktop behind Connor is where my dad learned to ride his bike. It was the only blacktop in town.

Connor found a friend!

For Hailey

2010-03-16T08:02:00.000-07:00

(Hailey has received permission to look at my blog...she misses these little guys!)

Hailey,

We love you so much. We hope you are loving your mission more and more! Keep up the good work. Sunday and Monday were beautiful sunny days. Leslie and Blair came over and made us dinner on Sunday (it was a Christmas present). It was a lot of fun to be able to be outside w/out it being freezing or raining! I love spring! Here are some videos and pictures!

Love you!!

Sunset

2010-03-05T20:59:00.001-08:00

I saw the most beautiful sunset today! It was pink and purple and so bright (the picture is not the actual sunset I saw). I stared at it for a long time...probably too long since I was driving at the time. I was hit with awe at the love our Heavenly Father and Jesus have for us. They give us so many things, including the beautiful sunsets. It was an experience! Then, a song came on the radio. It is an average song. It is by Shania Twain, called "From This Moment". The song is supposed to be a love song, but since I was thinking about the Savior and his love for me, I applied the song to the Savior, and I really felt the spirit. I know it may sound weird, but it was awesome. I remember one time, Bishop (Casey) Westover taught a fireside (he wasn't the bishop yet) about music and how music today isn't always bad. We listened to "Everything I Do" by Brian Adams. While we were listening to the song, we were looking at a picture of Christ. The spirit was so strong, just like it was while I was driving in my car. Sometimes I need those moments, and I am thankful that I was able to feel the spirit so strong!

From This Moment

by Shania Twain

(Think of this from your point of view)

From this moment life has begun

From this moment you are the one

Right beside you is where I belong

From this moment on

From this moment I have been blessed

I live only for your happiness

And for your love I'd give my last breath

From this moment on

I give my hand to you with all my heart

Can't wait to live my life with you, can't wait to start

You and I will never be apart

My dreams came true because of you

From this moment as long as I live

I will love you, I promise you this

There is nothing I wouldn't give

From this moment on

You're the reason I believe in love

And you're the answer to my prayers from up above

All we need is just the two of us

My dreams came true because of you

From this moment as long as I live

I will love you, I promise you this

There is nothing I wouldn't give

From this moment

I will love you as long as I live

From this moment on

Everything I Do

by Brian Adams

(Think of this from the Savior's point of view)

Look into my eyes - you will see

What you mean to me

Search your heart - search your soul

And when you find me there you'll search no more

Don't tell me it's not worth tryin' for

You can't tell me it's not worth dyin' for

You know it's true

Everything I do - I do it for you

Look into your heart - you will find

There's nothin' there to hide

Take me as I am - take my life

I would give it all - I would sacrifice

Don't tell me it's not worth fightin' for

I can't help it - there's nothin' I want more

Ya know it's true

Everything I do - I do it for you

There's no love - like your love

And no other - could give more love

There's nowhere - unless you're there

All the time - all the way

Oh - you can't tell me it's not worth tryin' for

I can't help it - there's nothin' I want more

I would fight for you - I'd lie for you

Walk the wire for you - ya I'd die for you

Ya know it's true

Everything I do - I do it for you

FREE!

2010-02-16T11:58:00.000-08:00

I have been learning to coupon over the past month thanks to the links to Coupon blogs on Heather Swanson's page (Thanks Heather! I will be putting those links on my page very soon). At first I got pretty good deals, but things didn't always go according to plan. I am learning more each day and it is really exciting to save so much money. I never thought coupons would make much difference. We always shopped at Winco and I thought that was as cheap as I could get groceries...I was wrong. Check out the deal I snagged today:

REGULAR PRICES:

Right Guard Deoderant (4): $2.99 each for a total of $11.96

Healthy Harvest Pasta (4): $2.39 each for a total of $9.56

Smart Taste Pasta (4): $2.39 each for a total of $9.56

Activia 4-pack (2): $3.29 each for a total of $6.58

AirWick I-Motion (1): $7.99

Raisin Bran (1): $4.19

That totals $49.84 regularly

TOTAL OUT OF POCKET: $0

Thats right...I got ALL THIS FOR FREE! All I have to say is that I was wrong about Winco being the cheapest. If you shop the sales at Walgreens, Albertsons, Safeway and Target and use coupons, you can save so much! I am blown away at how much I save. I am still not really good at couponing, but I am excited at all the other deals I will get as I learn more. It is so easy to learn. You should try it!

My Colby

2010-02-10T16:32:00.001-08:00

I am so happy to have Colby in our family! He is more fun every day! Connor adores him and is always wanting to hold Colby's hand...which can get a little annoying (but so cute).

Here is a little bit about Colby:

1. He is a RED head.

2. That head is pretty lopsided! he he

3. He has dark blue eyes. About 1/2 the people I talk to think they will turn brown, the others think they will remain blue.

4. He is a good sleeper.

5. He goes CRAZY when I feed him solid foods. He loves them and is a really good eater.

6. He has a Red-Head temperament. When he is happy, that mood can change pretty quickly! One minute he is smiling, the next he is screaming.

7. His big brother can always capture his attention.

8. He wants to be in the middle of the action, always held or in a sitting position.

9. As of last week he can sit all by himself.

10. He is now 6 months old!

11. He has the cutest giggle, which Connor brings out of him the most often.

12. He is VERY good with shots. Much better than Connor! Colby will cry for a few seconds and is back to normal quickly.

13. His hands and feet are ALWAYS cold, even when indoor w/ socks on! (Is that normal?)

14. He loves being read to.

15. He is always watching people, but if you hold him it is very hard to get him to look you in the eye. He will look at the person next to you just to spite you.

16. He drools...a lot!

17. His cheeks are rosy red.

18. He is cute.

19. He is fun.

20. Colby is AWESOME.

Colby is a character and has his very own personality. We love him. He is awesome!

Sitting up. Just like most babies, Colby is in awe of cameras.

What a cutie. I love this kid!

I thought I should share a good picture of his temper! Gotta love it!

Colby 1st and Connor is 3!

2010-01-25T19:37:00.000-08:00

Colby experienced a 1st this week. He flew on an airplane (3 to be exact). Poor Connor has never been on an airplane. David's Grandma died, so we headed to Utah and Connor stayed with my parents. It was a quick trip with LOTS of family. Colby was such a good boy on all 3 flights. He slept through almost every one. It was awesome!

Looking out the window while in flight.

Connor's birthday is tomorrow. He will be 3. I cannot believe it! We made his cake for Family Home Evening. He loves it! He loves any sport, so a soccer cake really made him happy!

Connor has been practicing with the Roller Skates he got for Christmas. He is doing really good and is a good sport about getting back up after falling (which happens quite a bit).

We Love You David!

2010-01-19T18:40:00.000-08:00

David,

I just want you to know that we miss you tons! I cannot wait to see you when you get home! Connor, Colby and I have been having a lot of fun, but we wish you could be here! We had a Jungle Picnic tonight! Connor loved it. He asked if we could leave the Jungle out until you get home so you can play in it with him! So...its waiting for you.

Thank you for working so hard for our family! I know you wish you could be home. We love you SO much. I couldn't ask for a better husband, dad for my kids and friend. I LOVE spending time with you. Have a great night!

Love, Lins

I've Been Tagged

2010-01-15T09:33:00.000-08:00

I was tagged to 1. Open your first picture folder

2. Upload the 10th picture in the folder

3. Tell us the story behind the picture

4. Tag 5 friends to do the same.

Here it is...my 10th picture in my first folder. This is Connor and I in November of 2008. He was almost 2. Look at those chubby little cheeks. We had JUST bought our home and were doing some work before moving in. That is why I look so dirty and have paint on my nose. The picture was taken at Brentwood, where we were still living while doing some of the work and painting. I actually love this picture! I didn't when it was taken. It is funny how time changes your opinions on things.

Now it is my turn. I tag- Sarah K., Leslie (I know Andrea tagged you, but I want to make sure you do it :)), Kacy , Anna, and Keersten. I'll be checking soon!

Picnik

2010-01-13T19:24:00.000-08:00

I love this site! Picnik.com . It is great to do pictures and word art if you do not have one of those amazing, but expensive programs...which I don't! To do word art, just save a blank white page in your paint program. Then...up load it to Picnik and add cute text. Hailey showed me the site and I love it. Another site that is good is paint.net . You have to do a download for paint.net, but it is worth it. Here is a picture I took today and "fixed" in Picnik.

January Update

2010-01-09T08:36:00.000-08:00

Things have been going good for us this year. I am liking 2010 already! Connor is such a good boy and he is learning so much. Colby just keeps growing...I don't know how that happens so fast!

Connor: Connor is spunky and energetic. He loves to run, jump, dance and climb. He LOVES sports of any kind and regularly pretends he is on a team. He will randomly say, "Mom, my coach needs me in the game!" or "Mom, coach doesn't want me to sit on the bench, my team needs me." Then he will proceed to run off and play his chosen sport. Grandpa Durfee has taken him golfing a few times, to fiddler's green to hit balls, and to High School basketball games and practices. I am so glad my dad does that. I grew up in the gym because my dad was always coaching and I wish my kids could all have that experience!

Connor also loves to learn! When I tell him it is time to read a book he will say, "But I can't read. Can you teach me?" I have told him that he can just look at the book and read the pictures, but he isn't satisfied with that. His attention span is like that of a kindergartner so...he is participating in "school". He knows all the letters and each sound. When I tell him a word, he can tell me what letter it starts and ends with. He already knows how to separate sounds in a word, which is hard to learn! He just picked it up. He is close to reading SIMPLE three letter words. I don't know how he does it. I am NOT sitting down with him daily to teach him to read. He will simply come up to me every few days and say, "Mom, it is time for school." He is so funny. He has learned how to write his name already, but he does it backwards (from right to left). I think this may have to do with the fact that he is left handed like him mommy!

Connor also LOVES his little brother. I am so glad he has become so attached to Colby. He is ALWAYS trying to hold Colby's hand. It is so funny. He loves to spend time with his cousins. They are his best friends.

Colby: Colby is a joy to have around. He is NOT a mellow baby like Connor was. With Connor I just thought, "I must be such a good mom." Now that Colby has come along I truly see that their personalities are with them from an early age...and there is only so much you can do. Colby is either crying (screaming) or smiling. He has extremes. Because of that, it is not hard to coax a smile out of him. If you smile at him, he will smile back. I love his little smile. Often he will make a high pitched squeak when he smiles. We haven't gotten very many giggles yet, but with how much he smiles during the day, I am happy with that.

Colby LOVE his big brother. He smiles at Connor more than anyone else. Anytime he even SEES Connor, he will smile. He will watch his big brother run and jump and dance around the room and he is so content. I think they will have a great relationship as they grow.

Colby is really close to sitting up. He does not want to lay down. He wants to see and know what is going on all the time. He either has to be sitting in his bumbo, his jumper or be held. He is the complete opposite of Connor as a baby. We really love Colby and that love grows every day.

I am so blessed to have such a wonderful family. My husband is awesome. David is such a hard worker, and with the way the economy is, I am not worried because even if something goes wrong, David will work his tail off to provide for our family. The boys absolutely adore their daddy. David loves being a dad and is so involved. He feeds and changes Colby just as often as me. He also makes dinner and helps with laundry. I married such an amazing man!

Here are some pictures from the past week:

Connor got a dress up box for Christmas and is using his brother as a model.

Chad and his basketball team (La Pine) came down to play against Pleasant Hill. We were able to go and Chad asked my dad if he would sit on the bench and assist. It was great to see them coaching together. I love my brother so much and it wasn't until he came down that I realized how much I miss him. I wish I could see him everyday again! (sorry for the bad quality picture. Chad and Dad are in the corner of the gym watching the team warm up before the game.)

Connor LOVES his Uncle Chad and was so excited to go and cheer for La Pine!

Connor always wants to help with Colby. These are some of the things he will do regularly to help

-Put Colby's pacifier in if he starts crying.

-Read him a book (show him pictures).

-Dance or sing for his brother.

-Snuggle with his brother.

-Go get anything from Colby's room I need (diapers, socks, shoes, bibs, pjs, blankets, etc.)

-And occasionally try to help us feed him!

Another costume from big brother Connor!

Green Eggs and Ham

2009-12-24T09:01:00.000-08:00

Sorry for those of you with a weak stomach!

We woke up today (Christmas Eve) and Connor said, "Mom, can we have a Christmas breakfast?" I started to think of what a Christmas breakfast could be, and something popped right into my mind...Christmas colors! So,in honor of Christmas may I present...GREEN eggs and ham breakfast burritos! Connor loved it. We both ate them for breakfast, but David wouldn't get near them. Silly guy!

We hope you all have a very happy Christmas! I am sure I will have other things to post in the coming days, maybe hours.

MERRY CHRISTMAS!

Similarities

2009-12-12T09:04:00.000-08:00

The other day I was putting an outfit on Colby and I was shocked that it fit. I had a weird moment where it felt like Connor as JUST wearing the outfit and it kinda freaked me out. Here are some pictures I found of Connor along with some I recently took of Colby.

Connor -4 months old

Colby- 4 months old

Connor- About 2 and a half months old.

Colby- 4 months old.

It seems like Aunt Hailey has bad luck getting to watch my babies grow...

Connor- 3 months.

Hailey had to leave to school. She was really going to miss seeing Connor everyday.

Colby- 3 months.

Aunt Hailey leaving for her mission. She and "Newbie" as she calls him, had really become close. She is really going to miss this little guy.

Kitchen Remodel...

2009-12-10T11:26:00.000-08:00

So we are/have been basically done with our kitchen remodel for a few months now. I was waiting to take pictures until EVERYTHING is done, but I am not sure when that will be. All we need to do is add a few trim pieces and put in the new window sills. Here are some pictures of the project from start to finish.

This is our kitchen before the remodel. It is a bit deceiving. We had already done some things to it because when we bought the home as a foreclosure the kitchen was disgusting!! We actually found a drug pipe in one of the cabinets. Before this picture was taken we cleaned, painted, tore out upper cabinets over the bar, replaced the very GROSS stove and oven and put in lighting. We didn't think we would have the $ to redo the kitchen for awhile, so we did enough to make it livable. It was worse in real life than it looks in the picture!

We got to work on demo and then started rebuilding. Connor had to get in on the action!

We tore out the drop ceiling because it felt like a cave in the kitchen. Sheet rock particles got everywhere! You can see them in the picture. I was about 5 months pregnant at this time and wore my father in law's gas mask thing much of the time!

Once we got the ceiling and wall patched up, we ripped up the vinyl and particle board over the floor boards. We needed to rip out the particle board to have clearance for doors to open and close when we added the tile. It was a long process. We had a few "work parties" and family members came over to help. The builders put about a million staples in the boards, so they came up in about 3 inch pieces! It took FOREVER!

This is what it looked like for about 2 months! I washed dishes in the bathtub!

This was our kitchen for a long while. We used the table and the microwave. Everything else was out of commission.

THE FINISHED PRODUCT:

The tile and backsplash, cabinet color, faucet and range are some of my favorite thing!

I am so happy with how it turned out! David is amazing...and so are all of our family members that helped us, especially Keith Marchant (David's dad). He was here most nights for a few weeks and helped SO much! I love being in the kitchen now...even if I am not the cook (David is!). Hey, I even enjoy cleaning this kitchen now.

AMAZING LITTLE SISTER

2009-12-09T20:49:00.000-08:00

READ KACY'S LATEST POST!!

--------------------------------->

Loving My Buddy and My Cousins!

2009-11-24T13:32:00.000-08:00

Connor was able to go to Fiddlers Green with my dad the other day. They brought a few of Connors clubs so he could practice!

Backswing

Making Contact

Follow Through

Connor LOVES his grandpa! He gets excited anytime he can go somewhere with his "buddy". Grandpa is taking time to teach Connor golf, baseball (he is a great batter!), football (mostly kicking since I don't want him to die) and basketball. Connor loves being a sports boy! Most days he picks out his outfit of choice based on the sport he likes the best that particular day. I hear things like, "I am a basketball boy" or "Mommy, I have to wear my golf cleats today!?" It is so funny!

Connor was so excited today! His cousin Andrew came over to play. They made and decorated sugar cookies, watched Thomas The Train (a favorite for both boys), ran and danced to some of Connors music, played with toys, made Thanksgiving Turkeys (pictured), and ate lunch. They love playing together! Not to long ago, they really couldn't play together and would only fight. It has gotten so much better and there are only little arguments here and there. They love having a cousin to play with!

Here they are with their turkeys.

When Tina and Brooke came to get Andrew we all decided to go for a walk. It was really fun. All the kids had to have their sunglasses on (it was a sunny day!). Makes for a cute picture!

Connor and Andrew and playing while Connor's music plays in the background!

Moral of this post...I LOVE LIVING CLOSE TO FAMILY!!

Happy Holidays!

2009-11-22T09:26:00.000-08:00

Yes,I know it is not even Thanksgiving yet, but I have already decorated for Christmas. It just makes things so much happier! I love Christmas time!

In The Dark...

2009-11-15T10:58:00.000-08:00

...The Wind Blows
...The Wolves Howl
...The Bugs Creep
...Colby Sleeps

...Yes, Colby Sleeps! We figured it out...FINALLY!
So, I am one of those moms that most people thinks are mean! At 8 weeks Connor was sleeping through the night. So, we decided that we would start Colby sleeping through the night at 6 weeks (I NEED my sleep). So, at 6 weeks, instead of feeding him when he would wake up, we let him cry! Now, normally this should be a short process (It was with Connor)...Not with Colby. He just cries and cries and cries. He doesn't stop after 10 minutes, 20 minutes, 30 minutes or even 45 minutes. So for the last month and a half, instead of feeding him every night, or letting him cry, we would quickly go in and put his pacifier back into his mouth when he would start to fuss. We thought he would "Get It" and he would sleep through the night after a few days. Well, that has not worked...until 4 nights ago that is. David decided to leave Colby's night light off so that his room was COMPLETELY dark at night. When we woke up in the morning we realized he did not wake up once! At first we were worried, so we both went into his room and found he was just fine! We did the same thing the next night. No night light= Colby sleeping through the night AGAIN. We have done the same thing and every single night he has slept without waking up once. I guess he probably could have slept straight through the nights earlier if we knew he liked being...IN THE DARK!

Hailey and Family

2009-10-27T22:45:00.000-07:00

Blubber, Blubber, Blubber, Blubber. That is what I am doing...Blubbering. I just left my parents house for the second time tonight. My little sister Hailey is leaving TOMORROW for the MTC in Provo. She will be gone for a year and a half. I left earlier and then started crying and decided I have to hug and talk to her again (even though we are going to the airport w/ her tomorrow morning...6 hours from now). I am so sad that I will not be able to see her, but I have faith that what she is doing is the right thing! I have become closer to Hailey in the past few months and feel like I have shot myself in the foot. It is so hard to say goodbye to her. She has become my partner in crime. When I am bored, she is there to lighten things up and make the day fun. Hailey...we will all miss you!

This last weekend was Kacy's 20th birthday. She has become such a mature woman. We have relatives in town and they were all here for Hailey. Hailey's farewell talk was on Kacy's birthday. She handled it all so well. I hope she had a great birthday!

Our family got our pictures taken by Erin Ortmann. She is great. David and I had her take pictures a few weeks ago for us and we liked them so much my parents asked her to take pictures for our whole family before Hailey left. I love my family!

Here is my precious little Colby...

...Colby again.

Connor and Mommy

Connor and Daddy

My big boy

I love my boys. They are awesome and they love eachother! I love my family!

Ewww...Pumpkin Guts

2009-10-16T21:03:00.000-07:00

Connor and I carved some pumpkins tonight while David was working on grouting the tiles for our kitchen back splash. Connor has always been...well, a clean freak. He hates getting dirty. He probably learned it from me. I am pretty strict about messes unless they are planned and supervised, so he has been used to that forever. When I tell him he can get messy, he is never very excited about it. Kinda weird since most little boys love being messy!

Ewww! I don't like this!

Why are you making me do this?

Luckily...after awhile Connor warmed up to the idea of being messy!

This is fun!

Look! A pumpkin seed.

Guess Who?

2009-10-05T16:47:00.000-07:00

Hailey, Kacy and I went to the Oregon game this Saturday. Can you guess who's shoes are who's?

David and Lindsay

2009-09-29T10:29:00.000-07:00

>What are our middle name?

Evan and Nicole

> How long have you been together?

Dated 8 months, engaged 6 months married 4.25 years!

>How long did you know each other before you started dating?

Umm...We knew of each other for about 10 years.

>Who asked who out?

I asked him. Chad (brother) and David were going on a double date and David's date couldn't go...so I told Chad that I would go with David (I am pretty forward). David knew my plans and we ended up holding hands that night and dating shortly after.

> Who made the first move?

Both. I kissed him on the cheek when we were watching a movie...then he kissed me (not on the cheek).

> How old are we?

David is an old and wise 27 and I am catching up at 24.

> Did you go to the same school!!

We went to the same Middle School (Thurston), High School (Thurston), College (LCC) and University (U of O).

> Who majored in what?

I have a Bachelors in Elementary Education and a Masters in the same.

David has a Bachelors in Business/Finance

> Who has worst temper?

Umm...Me I think. Neither of us has much of a temper which I am very glad about. We are both pretty easy to get along with (I think) and don't get mad too easy.

>Who has the best sense of humor?

David. He can be so funny. It works out, because I LOVE to laugh. Sadly I have a loud and annoying laugh. Oh well!

> How many children do you want?

We both want 4 or 5. I want 4 of my own and I want to adopt one. I'm not sure if David will go for it though. I just CANT be pregnant more that 4 times!

> Who does the cooking?

David! He is a great cook. I have probably made less than 10 meals since we have been married. Sad! I was spoiled with a Dad that cooked and I am so glad I found a man that will cook for me!

> Where did you go on your first date?

I think bowling and then back to my house to watch a movie.

> Who has the bigger family?

We are tied. He has 3 siblings (2 brothers and a sister) and I have 3 siblings (2 sisters and a brother)

> Do you get flowers often?

No. I have gotten Tulips a few times though (they are my favorite).

> What do you do for a living?

I have my own business and David works doing internet marketing for car dealerships.

>What is "your song?"

Rascal Flats "God Blessed the Broken Road." and Savage Garden "I Knew I Loved You Before I Met You."

>What is your favorite thing to do together?

Watch the Office or The Big Bang Theory, go to the lake or play with our kids.

YOUR TURN!

LONG SHOT...OREGON TICKETS

2009-09-25T09:34:00.000-07:00

Hey, I know this is a long shot...but if anyone has Oregon Football tickets that can't go to the game or extra tickets I would LOVE to go. I am kinda obsessed with Duck Football, so keep me in mind!

Updates and Pictures

2009-09-16T11:01:00.000-07:00

I am really loving life. I have a great family, friends, job, etc. I love being a wife and mother. Whoever thinks being a mother isn't reaching you potential or is a waste of time is really missing out on the best life has to offer. Lately things have been uneventful for the most part...but that is the way I like it. Here are some happenings, some exciting...some not so much!

Poor Connor. About a week ago we came home late at night after playing games with my parents. Connor went upstairs and climbed into our bed (he always gets to cuddle with us before going to his own bed for the night) while David and I finished up some things downstairs and locked up the house. All of the sudden we heard a loud bump and Connor started screaming. David ran upstairs and met Connor in the hallway. Blood was gushing (as most head wounds do) and David yelled for me to come upstairs. I saw Connor and literally thought he had cut his actual eye open. Luckily, after the bleeding had stopped it didn't look quite as bad. We didn't know if he would need stitches (this was the first big cut Connor has ever gotten), so we called my parents and they came over to help.

We all decided he probably wouldn't needs stiches, but we had no liquid bandaid, so we used super glue. Super Glue?? You may think that sounds strange, but it works so well at closing cuts. This cut needed to be closed because it bled a lot and it was an area that we couldn't really put a bandaid on...we tried. We actually even tried cutting a bandaid to be smaller but when Connor saw the scissors he screamed "NO!!! Don't cut me!!!"

On the first try at gluing we accidentally glued Davids fingers to Connors face...oops. It actually sounds funny now, but it wasn't then. We finally got the cut closed and glued and David's fingers off of Connor's face and it looked really good. The pictures are taken after the glue. The cut looked much worse before. Connor was VERY happy when the ordeal was over! It is healing nicely.

(Notice the bloody shirt. There was more on our carpet!)

David has really started to enjoy making and decorating cakes. This one was started at about 7:00 at night, so he did not have as much time as he would have wanted. I think it turned out great! This was his first attempt (EVER) at roses!

We are really enjoying having Connor around. He is so much fun. When I am home with him I don't miss the adult world much because he can carry on an adult conversation. He has a huge vocabulary and is so fully of energy. It doesn't hurt that he is ALWAYS happy. Knowing Connor, I know that children come from our Father in Heaven. He is like a little angel! He loves his little brother and is always willing to help. He hasn't shown even an ounce of jealousy. In fact, he thinks I should pay MORE attention to Colby and always brings it to my attention that Colby is crying and needs me.

I love having little Colby around. I cannot believe we have had him for a month and a half already. Time flies!! He is a pretty good baby. We are trying to get him to sleep through the night and were successful the last two! Yippie for Colby! He has a pretty weak stomach which makes him more fussy than I was used to with Connor, but overall he is a great baby. We had to switch him to Soy formula because he threw up the milk based stuff all the time. Even after he eats the Soy he is fussy and it is apparent his tummy hurts him. Sometimes it is tough not to get aggrivated with his crying, but I have to remember that he just isn't feeling good. We are glad he is in our family and we are excited that he will start interacting with us more soon. David was able to bless him the first Sunday of this month. It was a great blessing!

Finally, things are still moving forward with our house, even if it is going slower than before. David and his dad got the grass seed planted in our front yard last night! I am so excited to finally have grass!!! I never realized how much time it took to rake and roll the dirt flat and level. David has been working on it for a couple of weeks. Now on the the backyard!!

For Karen...

2009-09-13T16:45:00.000-07:00

Here are a few ideas of things children can do during church or other times than may require them to stay quiet for an extended amount of time. I am not an expert, but Connor does enjoy having something to do, and he loves learning games.

1. Learning Games

2. Quiet Books

Making a quiet book is another good option. There is a good site for ideas on LDS quiet books. Click HERE

3. Sewing Pages

Sewing pages are easy to make. I have some I purchased at a garage sale, but they are simple to make on your own.

Paper:

1. Print out a picture you like (clip art, family, shape, child, etc).

2. Cut the picture to the shape you want it.

3. Laminate (you can use contact paper from the store).

4. Hole punch and attach yarn or string, or you can use shoe laces.

Wood: These can also be made out of wood in a similar way. You will need a saw to cut the shape and a drill for the holes.

4. ABC Gospel Book

Finally is a book I made for Connor. I am trying to get time to make one for Colby too. Each page of the book also has an explaination and a scripture so as kids get older they can still use the book during church or at home. He loves seeing pictures of things and people he recognizes.

Randomness...

2009-09-02T11:39:00.000-07:00

Here are some random pictures...

This is my little Colby. Look close and you can see that he has RED hair. We were shocked when the doctor that delivered him announced we had a little red head! He is a pretty good baby. He cries more that Connor did...but I think ALL babies do. Overall he is easy to handle and we really enjoy having him in our family.

He is Connor posing for the camera.

I work every morning from about 8:00- 9:30. I have to run to 2 local car dealerships and then I return home to be with my boys. David is able to stay home during that time 3 days a week and the other 2 my mother-in-law watches the boys. It was David's turn today. Usually I come home and everyone is awake and eating breakfast. Today was a little different. We (David) had a long night with Colby and this is how I found my boys when I got home...all sound asleep! It was so cute.

Finally, here is a little video of Connor...and his favorite book. I made sure he had a Book of Mormon in his book shelf and he loves it. He cannot read it, but for some reason (I am not complaining) he thinks it is an exciting book, even without any pictures!

The 1st Article of Faith

2009-09-01T09:43:00.000-07:00

New Hair!

2009-09-01T09:26:00.001-07:00

My lovely little sister Hailey did my hair a few days ago! I was feeling pretty nasty and I am so grateful that she could help me. Anyone who has had a baby may know how I feel. It is three weeks after delivery and you are feeling huge! I cannot fit into my prepregnancy clothes and I just felt gross. Having a new hair cute and dye makes me feel much better. At least my head can look good if my body can't! heehee. Thanks Hays! (Connor had no trouble posing with me for my pictures! He loves getting his picture taken. Silly boy!)

LAST CHANCE! Going Private!

2009-08-28T10:02:00.000-07:00

I just thought I would post a reminder about going private. If you still want to visit our blog, please leave your email. If you don't feel comfortable leaving your email here, email it to me at cheeriodarlin@yahoo.com. I will be going private a week from today (Friday, Sept. 4th.)

Do They Look Alike??

2009-08-21T18:51:00.000-07:00

Here are some pictures of my boys. Sorry it has taken so long! The first is of Colby's first bath. Of course, big brother wanted to help me give him a bath. Yes, I give babies baths in the big tub...forgive me...but it is easier for me! The following pictures are of Connor and Colby at similar ages. Do you think they look alike??

CONNOR (after 1st bath)

COLBY (after 1st bath)

CONNOR (sleeping...gotta love those arms)

COLBY (taking the 1 arm approach)

I LOVE HAVING TWO BOYS!!

Going Private

2009-08-13T16:16:00.000-07:00

Ok...I am finally doing it. I am gonig to make the blog private. If you want an invite, leave your email.

I have been so hesitant to go private because I am afraid no one will visit the blog anymore and I will have no comments. So, please still visit me!

My Boys

2009-08-12T21:18:00.000-07:00

Here are just a few quick photos of my little boys. I have been a little down and out lately so I will put up some better ones soon (these were taken on the web cam so they are blurry). This week has seemed to fly by...yet drag on. Colby has been such a great addition to our family so far. He is a great baby, just like Connor was. On Sunday and Monday he SCREAMED everytime he was awake. I took him to the Dr. on Tuesday (5 days old) and he had lost more weight. To make a long story short, he was dehydrated and basically STARVING because I have such a low milk supply. The same thing happened with Connor but I thought I would give it a try with Colby. All I can say is that he is a completely different baby now that he has food (formula) in his tummy. I am so glad he is more comfortable. I will definately start with formula on the next baby...no more torturing these little guys! Colby is always cooing and grunting. He makes noise constantly...but it is always quiet noise, which I appreciate.
Connor is doing a great job adjusting to Colby being home. He really hasn't shown signs of jealously or wanting more attention. He is lucky to have so many people around to love him. Aunt Hailey even bought a whole "play" basket while we were at the hospital! It was great. He has been excited to take on more responsibilty and become a big boy. He is doing a great job of listening and helping me. His favorite job is wiping the milk mustache off of Colby's face when we feed him. He really is a proud big brother. He has also been so good about the fact that I cannot hold or pick him up because of the c-section. Boy do I miss cuddling this little guy.
Finally, I cannot say enough about David. He is the BEST husband. He has been awake for far too many hours taking care of me and my c-section issues and then feeding and helping feed (when I was nursing) Colby when I couldn't do much at all. One night when I was trying to feed Colby, David was just sitting there awake (like he did every single time) with me as I struggled to get him to eat. I told him that he could lay down and try to sleep but he told me he felt bad because I had to be awake. I think he can tell when I need his support and he has really made things easier. I have to say that although I dodged the labor part of having a baby, the recovery of a c-section is not much fun either! I can't wait until I can be back to normal and take care of myself so David can have a break!
Things are happy and we are loving our family!! I love saying "we need to put the boys in the car" or "did you check on the boys". My family is growing and I couldn't be happier!!

Here he is, Finally!

2009-08-07T20:30:00.000-07:00

Sorry for the delay, but things have been busy and Lindsay has been laid up in bed. So, I as the wonderful husband that I am, will pacify all of you that are waiting patiently or not. So here he is. Colby Glenn Marchant, born on August 6th, 2009 at 7:49 am. 7 pounds, 19 3/4 inches.He even came out ready to have his footprints taken. They said it was the first time that had ever happened.
Doesn't he look so happy to be a big brother. He only held him here for about 15 seconds.

It is amazing how much easier it is to schedule a c-section. We arrived at 5am and we were in our room and waiting for all of the pre-op prep. After a few attempts at an IV, 4 to be exact. They finally got it to stick. Then it was on to the spinal and after only a few minutes we had a baby. It is much easier to get the baby out, but the downfall is the pain and recovery for the next few weeks. Hope you enjoy the pictures and we will be posting some more pictures soon. The most important part is that they are both healthy, happy and doing well.

Connor and Cake

2009-08-05T13:59:00.000-07:00

I sure am going to miss having Connor as my only little munchkin. He has been such a joy to have and I know he will be an amazing big brother. It is just weird to think that it won't be David, Connor and I anymore. I am so excited for Colby to join us, but it is feeling bitter sweet as his arrival draws nearer. Connor is such a sweet, caring, smart, and happy kid. We have been blessed to have him in our home for the last 2.5 years and we are excited that Heavenly Father is blessing us with another one of his spirit children.

David, Hailey and I made a cake for Colby's arrival. It was our first time using fondant...so I am very pleased with the results! We had a lot of fun making it and we used Andrea Westover's idea of Marshmellow Fondant (Thanks Andrea). We are going to bring it to the hospital for all of our guests to share! What do you think??

This morning I took Connor to work with me and after we had left Kia, Connor asked me..."Mommy, does Kia start with a C?" I told him it sure sounds like it and that he was so smart. Then he realized cake starts with a C too! How smart is that for a 2 year old?? I was amazed!

3 Days!

2009-08-03T09:27:00.000-07:00

This is what I look like right now! I am not a cute pregnant woman and I really do not enjoy anything about being pregnant (except knowing I get a precious little child out of the deal). Only 3 days until I get another wonderful baby boy and I start shrinking...even if it takes awhile! Wish me luck! We will keep you posted and hopefully we will be able to post pictures pretty quickly after Colby Glenn Marchant arrives. We are set to go into the hospital at 5:00am on Thursday!

My New Nephew Is Coming!!

2009-07-16T10:13:00.001-07:00

The Pledge of Allegiance

2009-07-13T11:49:00.000-07:00

Connor loves to say the Pledge of Allegiance. He has been able to say it for awhile, and I am finally getting it on video! Sometimes I am such a slacker. I really need to get all the cute little things he does on camera, because he grows so fast. I love this little boy so much!

Coast Trip

2009-07-06T14:34:00.000-07:00

Connor and I were able to go on an awesome coast trip with my parents and little sister Hailey. We had so much fun. The last time Connor was at the beach was when he was only 2 months old...so for him, this was the first time that he can remember. He loved it!! I was so glad we could take a break from all the stress and relax together! Here are some pictures of our adventure.

Trust Must Be Earned

2009-06-22T19:04:00.000-07:00

My dad used to always say the quote; "To be trusted is a greater compliment than to be loved." I have really found that to be true in recent happenings. I think most of us trust people so quickly because we believe people deserve trust, but I have learned otherwise. It is hard for me to come to this realization. I want to trust people and give them the benifit of the doubt, but not everyone is trustworthy and honest. I found that to be true with a man I know who is a member of the church (another state...no one who reads this blog knows him) and was a former employer. I trusted him to be honest with me because of our shared religion. I assumed that meant he would do what was right...but I was wrong. I guess I am just venting...again, because I have been caught off guard. I never wanted to have to make people earn my trust, but I guess that is how it will be from now on. Happy happy Joy Joy.

Happy 4th Anniversary Lindsay!

2009-06-20T08:47:00.000-07:00

I just wanted to write a post to let Lindsay know how much I love her and appreciate all that she does for me and our family. Thank you for being a good motivation in my life and doing things to show that you care. Connor is lucky to have you as his mom and Colby will be too. I can't believe that it has been 4 years already. I guess time flies when you are having fun. Maybe one of these days the house will be done and I can stop making so many messes to have to clean up. Some days I think what it would be like to still be single and get to do anything I want to. I see that there is a time and place in life for that, but I am glad that I have someone to share life's experiences with. It would be pretty boring without you around. I love you so much! Happy Anniversary!

I want my baby and body back NOW!!

2009-06-19T09:46:00.000-07:00

So...for those of you who have been pregnant, you probably remember at one point feeling like you were DONE!! I am at that point already. I just want my baby and I want my body to be normal again! All the sudden I got HUGE and I feel like I can't do anything or move. I am not very excited about the hot weather of July, but I guess I will get through somehow. I have some comfort in knowing the exact day that I will deliver (by c-section), which is August 6th...but it still seems so far away! I am hoping these next weeks fly by so I can have a baby and start the recovery process. Ok...enough whining...I just had to vent!! AHHHH

Happy Anniversary David!

2009-06-17T20:47:00.000-07:00

I am so In Love with my husband, David. He truly is the best man I could have ever dreamed of marrying. He loves Connor and I unconditionally and shows us everyday. He works hard at work and then comes home and cooks us dinner. He is a great cook! He is also working incredibly hard to make our home comfortable by doing tons of repairs. He has been a great help to me as I started a new business and am moody and pregnant. I am so blessed to be able to be with him forever. Sometimes I wonder how I was lucky enough to find David. The answer to that is just a reaffirmation that my Heavenly Father loves me. What an enormous blessing David is to me and our family.

David- I love you more than you know! Thank you for being the wonderful husband and father that you are. I am grateful for all the little things you do for our family. You make us feel loved and important. You also help me to love and enjoy life. Thank you! I am so glad that I can spend forever with you!! Happy 4th Anniversary (won't it be weird in the eternities to have anniveraries?? "Happy 2 zillion, 8 million 400 thousandth anniversary honey!")

Connor and Colby

2009-05-24T10:55:00.000-07:00

Connor is already in LOVE with his baby brother Colby...at least the doll version of Colby! My Grandma Stephens got Connor a little doll to get ready for the new baby. Once Connor found out we were going to name his little brother Colby, he named his doll "baby Colby." Since then, baby Colby is always in Connor's thoughts. He sleeps with Colby, plays with Colby and even tries to share breakfast waffles with Colby. Right after he got a waffle, he split it in two pieces and gave half to Colby right away. It is so cute, and he tries to be so careful with his baby. He will often say "I need to proteck baby Colby." He is ready for the big brother thing and I think he will do a great job!

Sharing Waffles

A hug for Colby

Naptime for the boys

Connor and Colby Kisses

I LOVE YOU MOM

2009-05-10T11:14:00.000-07:00

I love you Mom!! You really are the perfect Mommy for me. I have so much fun with you...and I am not just saying that. You is hilarious and have a better sense of humor than anyone else I have ever met! We joke around that Chad and Dad are best friends and you and I are best friends. Funny thing is, for me, it is not a joke at all. Other than my husband and son, there is no one I would rather spend a day with than you Mommy. We have such similar mannerisms and neither of us can grow up! We sing, laugh, dance and have a blast. I am always happy when I get to spend time with you. I feel like you are the perfect mom. You gave up so much to raise us and you always acted like a Mom. I think that is why we are good friends now. I know that you love me and always did what was best for me, even if it didn't always make you popular in my eyes. Thank you! I love you.

Crazy Grandma on Vimeo

My little attempt at poetry, entitled:

Rhonda is Not Mean, Doesn't Have Stinky Feet and I Love Her!

Rhonda, Rhonda, Rhonda Doreen,
You are almost never mean.

Mommy dearest, Mommy sweet,
You don't even have stinky feet.

I love you so, You cannot know,
For you I would grow a 6 inch fro.

My Mommy is my greatest friend,
I know that feeling will never end.

I came into your life KaBAM,
And you gave me the perfect Fam.

When I was sick you took care of me,
From you I've learned that Love is the key.

Thank you for teaching me so many things,
You helped me to learn and use my wings.

I am so happy in my life,
And I owe it to you, model mother and wife!

Thank you Mommy!! I know my poetry is nothing compared to Dad's. I am guessing I got my poetry talent from you too (heehee).

Kitchen Before

2009-05-07T19:18:00.000-07:00

Here are some pictures of the kitchen before it got damaged by a hammer. It is slowly coming back together. The cabinets will be coming next Wednesday, so we need to wrap up the plumbing and get finish the texturing. We also need to tear out the rest of the floor and prep for the new tile. To give you a little preview of what is to come, here is a list of what we are changing.

Flip kitchen sink to under the window.
Replace windows with new shorter ones.
Tear out drop down ceiling and push it up.
Move plumbing and electrical.
Remove sub-floor and prep for tile.
Have it ready to install cabinets next week.

New kitchen coming soon!

2009-04-28T16:19:00.001-07:00

We have been pretty busy lately at the Marchant home. Moving into our first home in November, we have had a lot of work to do, including new carpet and other flooring, painting everywhere, some new doors and hardware, taking down a deck and cover and quite a few other little projects...but nothing compared to this. We have decided to take on the kitchen. For the past two weeks we have not really been able to use the kitchen and don't plan on being done for another three or four weeks. Microwaved food is getting old!!

Our ceiling was a false ceiling, which made the kitchen feel very closed in, so we (David) took it down.

If you look closely you can see David up there.

So far we have taken out large windows and put in smaller ones to make room for a new sink and countertop on the opposite side of the kitchen. David, his dad and his brother Alan have all been working off and on. They have put the sheet rock on the ceiling and put in new recessed lighting (much nicer than the 5x6 florecent lighting in the false ceiling). There is still SO much work to do before the new cabinets arrive in 2 weeks, but we are excited!

Andrew and Connor were helping their Daddies and grandpa work on the siding and windows that left a big hole in our home for a few days. Imagine sleeping at night with a hole in the back of your house that is only covered with plastic. SCARY!! We lucked out with warm weather though.

The boys taking a break from all that work.

On to another subject. I have started a small business and needed a new laptop for it. I am basically doing the same thing I was 2 years ago with car dealerships and am slowly buying the area. Connor and I had fun using the web camera to take pictures and videos.

SMILE!

I will update you with more kitchen stuff as we go. Wish us luck!

Lets Have A Tea Party!

2009-04-14T15:57:00.000-07:00

The following is from an email I just received. I thought I would share it! Hope to see you there.

-Lindsay-

People in Oregon are fed up, and they aren't going to take it anymore! Across this state on April 15, local Chapters of Americans for Prosperity are helping organize "Taxpayer Tea Parties" because our government is taxing too much, spending too much and borrowing too much, flying in the face of America's founding ideals.

It's time to "Revive the Revolution" in this nation, and send a message to Washington, DC and Salem that policies that increase our taxes to bail out corporations or force responsible homeowners to subsidize irresponsible borrowers are not acceptable. We need to reverse course so that we can preserve the opportunities and prosperity that come with personal freedom.

On April 15, a Taxpayer Tea Party will take place in Eugene. We urge you to attend this important event. The larger the crowd, the stronger the message. Please plan to join us!

Wednesday, April 15 - Eugene/Springfield

5:30 pm - Gather at Gateway Buffet Restaurant, 3198 Gateway in Springfield

6:00 pm - March to Gateway Post Office for Rally

Please bring some unused tea bags and a home-made sign appropriate for this family-friendly event, centered on our themes:

I AM AFP!

Revive the Revolution!

Liberty is all the stimulus we need!

No public $ for private failures!

Repeal the spending, taxing and debt - or retire!

Local AFP Contact: Jay Bozievich - jay@ebdgraphics.com

See you there!

Our Little Man's Nursery

2009-04-08T20:39:00.000-07:00

After I found out we were having a little boy, I went nursery crazy. All of Connor's things have followed him into his room, so the new baby didn't have much in the decoration area. We have a separate room for the baby, and since we bought a home in November I could actually paint the walls and go a little crazy. My mom and grandma helped me so much. Here are some pictures of what we have done so far.

We decided a jungle theme would be cool, so my mom and I painted some murals on the wall. I have a little projector, so we projected images, penciled them in and then painted. It was a lot of fun. This is an elephant peeking out of the closet (mom's creation). It is Connor's favorite part of his brother's room.

Next we have a little jungle scene. It started out as my project, but once mom finished the elephant we worked together to finish this one.

Here is a view of the changing table, wall shelf and mural. The shelf was actually a stand for VHSs, but I painted it and turned it sideways. I got it for 5 bucks at a garage sale a while back. The chair is also a garage sale purchase. I think we got it for $10 and David recovered it.

Another view.

Once we picked out our colors, we bought material for the curtains and David made them. Yes, David! I am not the best at sewing, but somehow I married a man that can do ANYTHING!

My grandma had these frames laying around and let me have them. We put scrapbook paper in the background and cut these pictures out of a jungle book my mom had.

Grandma also gave me these frames. We put scrapbook paper in these too. Grandma bought the animals for us along with a few other things for the room. She is always so helpful, and has always been good at decorating.

Crib shot. The crib set is from Walmart.

Another view of the crib.

I am so happy with what we have done so far and am really glad that so much has been done. It makes me really excited about having another baby!!

No Shirt!

2009-04-07T18:49:00.000-07:00

Sorry, I have to post this because I couldn't stop laughing. I just changed Connor into PJ's and he only had his pajama pants on. He started running around his room yelling "No Shirt". Now for the funny part. He isn't good with his "R" sound yet!

Potty Training...where is the training??

2009-04-07T16:49:00.000-07:00

So, if any of you know Connor, you know he is probably the EASIEST little kid and has been that way for his entire (short) life so far. He learns quickly, and does everything we ask him. Since he was a baby people would tell me how well behaved he was, how fast he seemed to learn new things and how lucky I was. I would get people at church, restaurants, and other public places telling me how good he was and how I just didn't understand how easy I had it. At first, I was appreciative of the comments, but also a little annoyed. Everyone knows Connor is good, but only because I am a fabulous mother. DUH!! Well...in the last few weeks, I have realized how wrong I was. Connor is just good! That is just his temperament. Now I am a little scared for the next little guy to come along, because I KNOW it cannot be this easy.

I have been hearing horror potty training stories from friends and family, and I have had to keep my mouth shut because I think people will hate me for how unhorrific my experience has been. With Connor, potty training is awesome. I have actually enjoyed it! I can see how quickly he is learning and it is just another step on his way to big-boy-hood. Right after he turned 2 (Beginning of Feb.) I thought I would try to start this daunting task. One day he started going poo in his diaper and I could tell, so I grabbed him and ran to the toilet. He got most of it in his diaper before I arrived at the toilet, but luckily we made it for a last little 'plop' (sorry if this seems gross). We clapped and he got a sticker and a treat. He was so excited! The next day I saw him start pushing in his diaper again and I told him to stop pushing so we could poopoo in the toilet. He stopped, we went to the toilet, and he went. He was so proud and we told every family member we could so Connor knew it was a big deal. To make a long story short, that is how Connor was poopoo potty trained. Since that first time he went in the toilet, I have not changed a poopy diaper. He simply walks up to me and says, "I have to go poopoo Mommy." We calmly walk to the toilet and he goes. Now he is into privacy and actually wants the door closed and everyone out while he does his business. When he is done he yells, "Mommy it plopped" or "Im done" and we go on with our day.
Peepee has been a bit harder because it is harder for him to know when he has to go until it is about to come out. He tries so hard, but often he will tell me he has to go peepee and by the time I get over to him, he has started going. This has led to crying because he is so sensitive. He wants to be a big boy so bad, but he is still learning to sense when he has to go. I have found that if I take him to the toilet every two hours or so, he stays dry and goes everytime I take him. That has been our game plan for awhile and he is now starting to make it when he tells me he needs to. He has been in pull-ups for about a month and we just got some new big-boy underwear. He is so excited to wear them. As soon as the pull-up pack is empty...big-boy undies...here we come!

Connor always gets a sticker (Dora or Diego of course) and a little treat (like a smartie). When I first started putting him on the toilet for peepee, I would give him 1 smartie if he "tried" and 3 if he actually went "peepee". I think this really helped him to stay with the program. Now he only gets one if he goes, which is basically everytime. I am really happy it has been so stress free and that he will be trained and used to it before our second one comes in August. All I know is...I am ready for a "regular" kid next, so wish me luck!!

It's A...

2009-03-26T16:31:00.000-07:00

BOY!

Yes, another boy. I am very happy to be having another boy and can't wait to set up another little nursery. Boys are great...at least so far. Thanks to all who voted.

Sex Poll

2009-03-19T11:58:00.000-07:00

Ok...sorry about that title, but I got a kick out of it! A week from today, we will be finding out if our new baby will be a boy or a girl. I cannot wait! What do you think it will be? Leave your vote and check back to see if you are right next week!

Precious time with a precious boy!

2009-03-12T11:57:00.000-07:00

I feel so lucky to be home with Connor so much. He is such a joy! I am feeling good again and am loving life. I haven't posted for quite awhile so I thought I would just post a few pictures of my baby and what we have been up to. Oh... I don't have a picture, but I have not changed a poopy diaper in almost 2 weeks now! Connor just tells me when he needs to go and he goes. He is pretty good at going potty, but still has a few accidents. I am so happy potty training is going so smoothly!

"Wow Mommy, I can see why you wear this. It's comfy!"

"I think I might be getting a little big for the sink!"

Connor loves going to Splash. Especially with Andrew, Brooke and Aunt Tina.

This is how Connor waited for dinner to be served a few days ago. "This is the life!"

We went and fed the ducks with Nanny (Great Grandma Stephens). Cheerios are really great for little guys to throw. Connor had a blast!

Connor and Rudy (Nanny's dog).

What a life I have. I love being able to spend time with Connor everyday. He is so sweet!

Sick of Being Sick

2009-01-23T13:37:00.000-08:00

Hello World. It has been awhile hasn't it?? I don't have any pictures of our house still! I would have, but I have been a little under the weather we could say. I have not done dishes, laundry, or any house cleaning for weeks. In fact, I still have piles of boxes that need to be unpacked from moving in the beginning of December. It is so depressing. Luckily, it is for a good cause. The picture you see below may explain a lot. I am wearing a very nice gas mask thingy. You may be wondering why. Well, the other day, David decided to make something with hamburger meat and the smell made me so sick. It was nice we still had the mask from painting, because it did the trick! I had to wear it for over an hour. Connor cried for awhile because he thought I was a monster, but he got over it.
I have been sick sick sick. So, what makes someone sick for weeks at a time? You may have guessed it. Were Pregnant! Yippie. I hope I can enjoy this news soon. I really wish I would have written down how long I was sick with Connor because then I may know how long this torture will last. It is so nice to have family to help me, because poor Connor never gets any attention from me. I feel so bad. He is such a sweet boy. Usually I feel bad all day until it builds up and I throw up each night. Today I had the luck of throwing up right as I woke up too. This may gross you out, but with nothing in my stomach I dry heaved for quite awhile and then threw up stomach acid. It was awesome...not! Anyway, Connor heard me (David was already gone for work) and came to the rescue. He said, "Mommy throw up?" I told him I was throwing up. He then walked over to me and said "Connor rub Mommy's back," and rubbed my back until I finished. I am so lucky to have such an amazing little boy. I hope I can play with him soon.

This picture describes what I look like much of the time. Miserable! The other night I was laying in bed and David was downstairs. I yelled to him "David, please bring up a bowl." I just knew I would need it. When he came upstairs, Connor called him into his room. Connor coughed twice and then in a whiney voice said, "Daddy...I need a bowl." It was so cute. I couldn't help but smile before using the bowl. ;)

I am 11 weeks and a few days. My due date is August 12th. We are excited, but we all can't wait until I am better. David is so good to help me. I am really like a slave driver and I whine all the time. I can't believe he is still so nice to me. I am really blessed.

Holiday Fun

2008-12-30T11:11:00.000-08:00

So...I don't have any picture of our house at the moment...Sorry! But I do have some pictures of other things.

First: A picture of what David and I have looked like for the last month. We have been painting, cleaning, demo-ing, and building. Our house needed a lot of work (just for us to move in). It will be an ongoing project, but we are happy it is ours. Notice the paint in David's hair and on his face?? I looked worse, which is why I posted this one of David instead. I also thought it looked kinda funny. Wow...Connor really enjoyed that kiss!!

Second: Connor's Snowman Pancake. Connor asked for a snowman pancake almost everyday. He got a few of them. He was always so excited and would tell everyone he saw that he got his wonderful snowman pancake.

Third: Santa got Connor a skateboard, helmet and knee/elbow pads for Christmas. He loves them. He is such a brave little kid.

Fourth: Connor and Mommy on Christmas morning.

Fifth: Tools. Grandma and Grandpa Durfee (my mom and dad) got Connor a whole tool bench setup. Connor was in heaven. There are so many tools, and the bench is just the right height for Connor. He was so excited.

Sixth: A picture of my handsome little boy. My mom and dad got him this outfit. I love it so much. He looks like such a grown up little guy.

We had a terrific Christmas. David and I got each other a house for Christmas, so our tree was pretty empty underneath, but it was such a great Christmas. After presents at home, we went to my parents house at about 9:00am Christmas morning to open presents over there. My Grandparents from Idaho were able to come out. My Grandma Stephens who lives here in town was also over. It was nice! We went to David's parents in the afternoon. We had a lot of fun up there too. David was in charge of pictures at his parent's house (which is why there aren't any). I feel so lucky to live close to our families. Connor is so close to so many people who love him.

I was shocked that Connor understood Christmas so well. I would ask him why we celebrate Christmas and he would always say "Baby Jesus born Mommy." He was also so excited about Santa. He kept saying "Tanta Toming To Town Mommy." We went to Hometown Buffet on Christmas Eve and the mall Santa was on a lunch break there. Connor kept pointing and yelling "Theres Tanta Mommy." As Santa was leaving he came over and talked to Connor for a moment. Connor was so excited he had seen Santa. Christmas lights were also a big event for Connor. This is what he would YELL over and over in the car "Theres Tristmas Yights Mommy." Notice everything ends with him saying "Mommy". That is his new thing. He has to inform me of everything that is going on. It is so cute.

Well, I hope everyone had a great holiday. Love you all!

We Bought A House!

2008-11-27T00:05:00.001-08:00

Yahoo!!!

Im Back....

2008-11-11T20:19:00.000-08:00

Ok...Since I have been gone for so long, I have a few pictures and updates. I have been busy with life and things are going great. I feel so blessed. Since the beginning of September I have been substitute teaching and I love it. I am able to work a little, but am still home with Connor for the majority of my time. I have been at a few different schools, but I have two favorites. I am able to sub at those two schools most of the time and have a few teachers who only call me. It is great to be in the same class more than once because you get to know the kids and the class routines. It is so much easier. I am enjoying substitute teaching more than I ever thought I would. I don't have all the stress of my own class, and have been lucky enough to be in great classes with very well behaved students!
My pictures are a little out of order, so I will just explain them as they come. :)

About 2 months ago (sorry, this picture is old), we went to the Olive Garden. This little girl chased Connor all around as we were waiting for our table. She would not leave him alone. It was so funny. She kept grabbing his hand and giving him hugs. He would run as fast as he could to get away from her, but she was always one step ahead of him. After about 5 minutes he finally gave in. It was so entertaining!

Connor was invited to his first real birthday party in October. It was for two little kids in our ward. Their parents went ALL OUT! They had a pinata, a cake walk, cake and ice cream, prize bags, and tons of games. Connor had a blast. Here he is attempting to hit the pinate. He isn't as tough as I had thought. I am definately going to have to have him hit the weights!!

Here he is in the hat he wore for about 30 seconds. Not a fan of hats!! He is taking a picture with his toy camera. SMILE!!

Connor made homemade birthday cards. It was so much fun for me and him. He was able to make cards for both birthday kids and for Aunt Kacy and Uncle Brent whose birthdays were also in October.

We just used scrapbook supplies to put cards together. I would give him the letters and stickers and he put them where he wanted. He also colored a nice picture and then signed is name (with Mommy's help of course). Connor loves coloring. He also loves to learn. He always wants us to read to him and do "ABCs". There is a website called Starfall.com that teaches ABCs. It is Connor's favorite thing. He is learning so much and loves it. He isn't even two and he can already identify 11 letters when I write them on paper (ABCDMOPSTWY)

I am such a slacker. I have no pictures of Connor in his cute spider Halloween costume so for now, this is as good as it is going to get! I forgot to bring the camera on Halloween. This is the hat for his spider costume. My mom got the costume and when we put it on him a month before Halloween he cried and cried. I decided I would make him like it. So, being the manipulative person that I am (heehee), I told him he could only eat breakfast and watch his favorite movie if he wore his hat. If he took it off, I took his food away or turned off the movie. To make a long story short...by Halloween he was in love with his costume and was so excited to put it on! He loved being a spider.

On to the coolest news of all...David and I went to Disneyland!! Yes, you heard right, DAVID and I. No, Connor did not go. We decided go on our own so that we could actually go on rides. We went with an awesome couple in our ward, the Boorens. We had so much fun with them. We went on all the rides so many times. They have two little boys who also stayed behind. This is the first trip David and I have taken together in the last three years. We were also able to go to a taping of The Price Is Right!! If you watch on December 9th, you will see us. We were not called up to the stage, but we were right in the middle of the audience about 3 rows behind the people bidding. Im sure you will see us a lot!!

Here I am with the Bowler Hat Guy. The last time I was at Disneyland was when I was only 6 years old, so I didn't remember much. Since I haven't grown out of childhood yet, I had to get an autograph book and take pictures with all the characters. Jared and Charlotte were so nice to stop and wait for me everytime I saw a Disney character.

Here are our awesome friends. They were so much fun. David and Jared get along great and were both so entertaining. Charlotte and I spent much of our time laughing at their silliness. I really enjoyed our time at Disneyland and wouldn't have picked another couple to go with. They were so down to earth and it was so comfortable (I guess it had to be since we shared a hotel room). Charlotte was always wearing her mickey hat!! I was very impressed. David and I also fell in love with "The Office". We watched tons of episodes on the drive down and back.

Here we are!! GO DISNEYLAND!

Bedroom Remix

2008-09-12T10:52:00.000-07:00

My 23rd Birthday was last month. I asked my Mom and Grandma Stephens if they could help me decorate my room for my birthday. For the last three years our room has been mix and match items. Now I am happy to report that it is cute! David and I have been looking at Comforters in catelogs for awhile now. We both agreed that we wanted blue and brown. I am so happy to finally have it! Eventually (years from now), when we buy a bedroom furnature set the room will look even better!

Here is a picture of the room from the door. I love the Comforter!!

This is the dresser area. My mom got the picture on the wall for me (I went shopping w/ her of course). My grandma had made the flower arrangement for our wedding and it matches perfectly. The temple picture was already on the wall. The jewelry box on my dresser was my sister's. She was going to give it to Goodwill so I snatched it. Finally, the chair is a $10 garage sale purchase that David recovered. It matches our furniture in the family room, but there is no room for it downstairs.

I love the little candle and holder. Momma got that for me too. I have had this picture tree since my wedding and I love it! It has been on my hopechest for three years but I still haven't put pictures in it. Lame...I know.

Frames: 50 cents each at a garage sale.

Pictures: From a calendar at Walmart for $4.00

I love this! It hangs above our bed (No, we do not light the candles. They are decorations!). My Mom got this stuff for me too. We went to Ross and TJ Max and found a bunch of cute decorations.

This is the nightstand next to David's side of the bed. Mom got me the sticks w/ pearls on them. The rest of this stuff I found around the house.

I am very happy with the way the room turned out. It is a nice place to spend time in now. It is simple and relaxing! Thanks Mom and Grandma. I love you!

Truth...

2008-09-03T12:50:00.000-07:00

Some Truth About Obama

The other day I was over at my grandmother’s home. She was talking about Barack Obama and the speech he gave during the Democratic National Convention. She was saying that she liked a lot of what he said and that he may be a good choice for president. I too watched his speech, and without knowing what I know, I may have thought the same things my grandma did. My grandma is a very conservative person, but like many many people in the United States, she often votes for the person and the smooth talking rather than the politics and issues. She doesn’t often know many of the issues and so, a person such as Obama, who speaks so eloquently and seems so perfect, carries a lot of appeal. I have compiled a list of only a small number of things I wish people like my grandma knew about Obama. I understand that many people do know these things, but many others are unaware of the issues and are simply “fans” of this superstar Barack Obama.

In 1999 Obama voted against a bill barring early release for (criminal) sex offenders.

He voted against filtering pornography on school and library computers and he voted for sex education for kindergarten children through the 5th grade.

In 2001, he voted “present” on a bill to keep pornographic book and video stores and strip clubs from setting up within 1,000 feet of schools and churches.

Twice, Obama voted against bills prohibiting tax funding of abortions.

In 2001, he voted “present” on a bill to notify parents when their minor children seek an abortion.

In March of this year Obama said this, “…look, I've got two daughters. 9 years old and 6 years old. I am going to teach them first of all about values and morals. But if they make a mistake, I don't want them punished with a baby.

He voted against a cloning ban in 2000, but voted for it in 2001.

Partial Birth Abortion

In 1997, Obama twice voted “present” on an Illinois partial-birth abortion ban.

He voted against requiring medical care for aborted fetuses who survive.

He had a 100 percent rating from the Illinois Planned Parenthood Council for his support of abortion rights, family planning services and health insurance coverage for female contraceptives.

In February 2004, his wife, Michelle, sent out a fundraising letter, which actually stated her concern over the rise of conservatism in the Country, and that the ‘so-called’ partial-birth abortion was a legitimate medical procedure that should be protected.

It is clear that Obama has no problem with partial birth abortion. What is partial birth abortion you may ask?? The pictures below will educate you. Partial-birth abortion is performed in the second and third trimesters of pregnancy, up to the end of the ninth month. President Bush signed a bill to ban this practice in 2003, but there are some, like Obama, who support it. When I look at the diagrams, I am appauled. When I was looking for diagrams, I put "partial birth abortion" onto the google image search line. I wasn't prepared for what I saw. I have never been so impacted by the seriousness and wickedness of this practice until I saw those photos. Obama will put more liberal judges on the supreme court if given the chance. And thousands more children will have their lives ended.

Guided by ultrasound, the abortionist grabs the baby's leg with forceps.

The baby's leg is pulled out into the birth canal.

The abortionist delivers the baby's entire body, except for the head.

The abortionist jams scissors into the baby's skull. The scissors are then opened to enlarge the hole.

The scissors are removed and a suction tube is inserted. the child's brains are sucked out causing the skull to collapse. The dead baby is then removed.

Every time I look at these I remember that babies in the 7th, 8th and even 9th months can be aborted like this. Is it painful? Of course it is! Just thought you should know!

Abortion is not the only reason I will NEVER vote for Obama. His record as a senator shows that he is undecisive, liberal, unable to work across party lines and unable to do much more than attract attention like the CELEBRITY he is!

Go Ducks, Go Potty, Happy Birthday

2008-09-03T12:25:00.000-07:00

I had a great 23rd birthday on Saturday. I didn't have a lot planned which is exactly what I like! I went to garage sales in the morning with my mom and then relaxed all day! My Grandma Stephens took the family out to eat to celebrate Chad's birthday on Sept. 1st and mine on August 30th. We went to Hole in the Wall BBQ. It was good food. Afterwards, we went back to my parent's home for cake, ice cream and the Duck game! The game was great. I am so happy football season is back again. Here are a few pictures of the day.

Connor is sitting on the toilet. I say "sitting" because that is all he is doing. He went pee one time, but he doesn't really know how to "turn it on" yet. He loves sitting on the big boy toilet though. He was ready for the game with his Duck hat and onesie.

Snacking during the game!

Connor and Mommy

Building a tower.

What a cutie!!

Splash and Camping

2008-09-03T11:04:00.000-07:00

Connor has been able to go to Splash a few times with Aunt Kacy this summer and he absolutely loves it! Here are some pictures of their adventures.

Aunt Kacy and Connor in the "baby pool."

"Hi Mommy!"

I love this picture! Connor really likes his Aunt Kacy. It took awhile for him to warm up to Kacy, but now Kacy is one of his favorite people. I think he says Kacy's name better than any other relative!

Here he is in his camping outfit at our family reunion in Idaho.

He loves to explore in nature.

Grandpa Marchant with Andrew (Anew). This was at a different family camping trip.

Connor and his buddy Anew after a walk around the campground.

Blonde or Brunette?

2008-08-29T11:07:00.000-07:00

I don't know what to do! I have always dyed my hair, but now I don't know what color I like the best! Is that pathetic or what?? So...can you please comment and weight in on the dilemma? Should I be a blonde or a brunette? I am so confused! HELP!!

It's Been Awhile!

2008-08-05T10:37:00.000-07:00

Update.

First of all...I am sure you have noticed that my page is ugly. This is for a reason. I have decided to print out all of my blog entries so that I can compile them by year. This way I will have a journal/scrapbook of day to day events. I changed the background so that I wouldn't waste too much ink. I also changed the archiving so that it is by individual days and there is only one post per page. This is the only way I could think of. Blogger doesn't have an option of listing posts from oldest to newest which would be easier than printing off each post separately. Oh well. If you can think of a better way, let me know.

Here are some pictures of the Portland Zoo. It was tons of fun!

Connor and the huge sea lion (this was my favorite).

Taking a ride and going nowhere!

Feeding the birds. This was so fun.

Two weeks ago we were able to go to my great-grandma's 95th birthday. It took place at my mom's aunt and uncle's home. They have a big man-made pond with a paddle boat.

Connor loved it!

What a happy family!

Love Birds...David & Aaron Funke (Kacy's boyfriend). I was laughing so hard seeing these boys in the paddle boat together. It seemed like the world disappeared when they were together.

Connor had his 18 month doctor appointment last week and he is doing great. He is in the 65th percentile for height, the 12th for weight, and the 80th for head (I still don't think he has a big head...oh well, I guess he is just smart!). On one of the papers I was given it said children should know 12-18 words by 18 months. I started to think of all the words Connor knew and I came up with a big list. He is an impressive little guy. Here are some of the words he can say (close to what they should sound like). I know he can say more, but I can't think of them all.

boy, Santa, mow, basketball, chair, eww, poop, pee, up, sad, happy, Jesus, mail, paper, dirt, door, Elmo, bath, water, juice, cup, Andrew (Anew), Blair, Leslie, Brent, Hailey (lala), Kacy, Mama (this means mom and grandma), Papa, Daddy, Drew, bear, hat, boy, bike, tractor, car, flower, bubble, ball, toy, hello, hi, bye, baby, oh no, yeah, no, yes, yummy, sun, moon, sock, shoe, banana, apple, diaper, owie, hair, knee, eye, elbow, ear, dog, computer (puter), doll, book, amen, and ball.

So, that is 70 words. I bet if I wrote down every word he said for a week it would be closer to 100. He is learning more and more everyday. It is fun to see him learn and grow. He is even helping us say prayers at night. We say a short line and he gets to say the last word. He tries so hard and is very proud of himself.

Our family is going to a reunion in Idaho. We will be leaving tomorrow, Wednesday, and will come home on Sunday. It should be a blast. I love spending time with my cousins! Yippee.

Vampire Beauties

2008-08-05T08:45:00.000-07:00

Me, Hailey and Kacy were able to go to the Breaking Dawn book release party. Of course we had to dress up. I was Tanya, Hailey was Rosalie and Kacy was Leah Clearwater??. Anyway, it was lots of fun. Here is a picture.

"Mommy...How do you put this thing on?"

2008-07-24T11:27:00.000-07:00

This is what I found when I went into the hallway after folding laundry. Should I be scared?

Memories

2008-07-23T10:51:00.001-07:00

My friend Sarah did this on her blog, and I thought it was neat, so I'm gonna do it on mine!
Here are the rules:
1. As a comment on my blog, leave one memory that you and I had together. It doesn't matter if you knew me a little or a lot, anything you remember (as long as its nice)!

2. Next, re-post these instructions on your blog and see how many people leave a memory about you. If you leave a memory about me, I'll assume you're playing the game and I'll come to your blog and leave one about you.

Aren't memories fun! Can't wait to see...

Sunshiny Days

2008-07-21T10:46:00.000-07:00

We have had a lot of fun enjoying the sunshine in the last few weeks. Here are some pictures of Connor and David running through the sprinklers and a video of Connor on the slip and slide. My brother-in-law Alan has a landscaping company and we were able to use a huge piece of his pond liner for the slip and slide. It was fun to watch the boys. Daddy and Connor

Where is the sprinkler Connor?

2008-07-21T08:15:00.000-07:00

Untitled from lindsayanddavid on Vimeo.

A Trial and Blessing: Miscarriage

2008-07-16T14:42:00.000-07:00

To my lost little one:
"I loved you your whole life"

Wow, life is interesting. It seems that everything is going perfectly and then you hit a little bump in the road. That is what has just happened to us. I was so excited to be done with school, be happily married, have an amazing little boy and get the exciting news that another new life was on the way.
On Sunday I came home from church and realized I had started bleeding. I was so worried and shocked and nervous. I would have gone to the hospital, but everything I read said that if it was a miscarriage nothing could be done anyway. I went for blood tests on Monday morning and again this morning. When you are pregnant, your hCG levels (a hormone present during pregnancy) are supposed to double every two days. When I went in on Monday my level was at about 950. When I got back today's results the level dropped to 300. Sure enough, I have had a miscarriage. I never thought something like this would happen to me. It never even crossed my mind. I had people tell me I should wait to announce I was pregnant but I couldn't. I get so excited. In the aftermath, I do not regret the announcement. I enjoyed the last month of excitement and anticipation and look forward to that excitement returning in the future. You may think it is weird that I am posting this, but I don't want to have to tell 20 different people that I am no longer pregnant. Hopefully this will help.
At first I was mad and so sad, but I realized that this is also a blessing. As I was reading about miscarriages, I learned that miscarrying is the body's natural way of getting rid of a baby that will not be able to survive on their own. Usually this means that the baby has genetic problems. I know everything happens for a reason and that Heavenly Father loves all of us. I believe that a miscarriage is something I can handle, though it is so hard. I am thankful that this happened now rather that weeks or months from now.
I don't know what happens to babies that are miscarried. I tried to think about it. Do those spirits come down again (try again)? or Do those spirits already have their bodies now? Either way, I loved my child from the day that I found out I was pregnant, and it is hard to think of what could have been, but I know that there is a reason for this trial in my life.

' The best and most beautiful things in the world cannot be seen,
nor touched, but are felt in the heart'
Helen Keller

Jeans

2008-07-09T16:31:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I was in a rush to get ready for my 8:00 class at the University of Oregon. I quickly put on a T-Shirt and then grabbed my favorite jeans from the pile of laundry I had neglected to fold the previous day. I was all ready to head out the door when I began pulling up my jeans. They felt like they would be a little tighter than ususal, but I attributed that to the fact that they had just been washed. I started to pull them up, but once I got them to my thighs they wouldn't budge. I couldn't get them over my thighs, let alone my hips and butt. I started to panic! "I haven't gained that much weight have I?" and "Im only 6 weeks pregnant, this is ridiculous." I was really depressed...until I had a thought. My thought was to look down at the tag. So, nervously I looked down at the jeans and to my suprise...they were Davids!! Ahhh. I should have known. His jeans were the same color as mine, so I had grabbed his by mistake. This relization was both a relief and an annoyance. I knew I hadn't gained weight...yet, and I was able to put on my pants once I found them. Unfortunately, I was reminded of the fact that my hubby will always be skinnier than me. I just smiled though. I am ok with that fact! I am happy with myself and thought I would post it cause it was a random but funny story. So, for all you girls fighting with weight issues, luckily your hubby doesn't have a 28-30 waist size (I wasn't that small as a size 8!).