The Steele's

7 weeks!

2011-04-16T11:11:00.000-07:00

Can you believe my baby boy is 7 weeks?!

He is getting so chubby! We love him so much!

Twin Cousins

2011-03-28T13:24:00.000-07:00

Meet Olivia Love & Jett Jakob

I don't think I ever posted about these cute little twin cousins. Me and Kami (Jordan's wife) had our babies on the same day! What are the odds? We joked about it the whole 9 months, and then it really happened! It was a fun day, we even got to be next door neighbors at the hospital!

Two cute little babes that will share the same birthday! Today they are One Month!

One Month

2011-03-28T13:19:00.000-07:00

I can't even believe it has been a month. Where does the time go? I feel like I had him yesterday. I'd better not blink, or he will be 20. We sure do love our little Jett.

Blessed.

2011-03-21T15:51:00.001-07:00

I swear, sometimes it feels like I am always feeding this new little one. The other two are constantly pulling at me and needing a sippy, a snack, to play a game, help in the bathroom, candy, a movie on, a story read,

a movie on....

Today I stepped back and took a few minutes to play the Wii with Ryder, and read our favorite tractor book with Madden. I love these boys so much. They have been so good the past 3 weeks while I have had to spend a little extra time with little Jett.

Aren't they 3 of the most handsome boys you've ever seen?

I sure think so.

A Baby Story

2011-03-16T08:21:00.000-07:00

Every mom has to tell it. The story of their little one's birth. Here is ours.

Sunday the 27th I woke up at midnight. I was having a few contractions. Nothing Major, and nothing that I thought could be the real deal. Now, I did do 40 jumping jacks on Sunday to TRY and get labor moving along... Maybe they worked. Hey, I haven't EVER in my whole life done 40 jumping jacks!

Well, I sat on the couch and waited. Watched the Wonder Years a few times. A few more contractions, and then I woke Erik up. I told him lets just go, I knew they wouldn't send me home since I was already dililated to a 4+. I debated for about another hour before I called my mom. She was at our house in 20 minutes.

On the way to McKay I was secretly praying that the contractions continue. I think I acted like I was in a little more pain then I was, but I was going to have the baby for sure! No getting sent home for me :)

In the ER they tried to get me in a wheelchair. I said I would walk. We got to Labor and Delivery and they got me all hooked up. Good thing we went because REAL contractions started pretty soon after we got there! I was a 5 and on my way to have a baby!

I had my epidural, which didn't really work :( They came 3 times and tried to make it better, but I could still feel too much. Then, my doc Machel (who I absolutely LOVE) came and broke my water at about 6 AM, and everything else went pretty quick. I pushed about 2 times, and Jett was here. All 8 lb and 13 oz. I couldn't believe it when I saw him on the scale! How did I have a baby that big?!

Everything else went really good, He immediatly wanted to eat. And thats about all he has done since :) I had a hard time recovering right after I had him. After pains were horrible, and if its true that they get worse with each baby, then we are probably done. I wanted to curl up in a ball on the floor and die. No pain meds touched it, and I had a good 3-4 hours of screaming, bawling, crying and cussing. Erik had to go, I think it was a side of me he didn't want to ever see :) Luckilly, my dad and Erik gave me a blessing. I know its the only thing that got me through! By about the 2nd day I was feeling much better! Boo to after Pains. Why can't you keep the epidural till you leave the hospital?!

So there you have it! Another baby story!

Life with Three.

2011-03-15T10:09:00.000-07:00

Crazy. Exciting. Tired. CRAZY. Lots of Laundry. Lots of diapers. No Sleep. Fun. Great. The Best.

I am adjusting to three. It has taken a few weeks, but I feel like Jett has been a part of our family forever. Three was easier then two, at least I think so. Heck, whats one more right?! Things are going good, Jett is growing fast, and since he never really looked like a newborn baby, its already making me a little sad :) Ryder and Madden adore him, and are constantly trying to HELP me. Madden likes to hold his hand, and tells me 'Baby Cute'. Ryder just likes to hold him and tell him lots of stories about Power Rangers!

Jett Jakob Steele

2011-02-28T22:56:00.000-08:00

Jett Jakob Steele

Our little man is here! He arrived on Monday, February 28th at 10:02 AM.

Jett weighed 8 lb 13 oz and is 20 inches long! (A BIG baby!!)

We love him so much!

Blog? Whats a Blog?

2011-02-24T02:26:00.000-08:00

So, talk about some major slacking. Should I just shut down this blog? I guess I have been crazy this pregnancy and forgotten to update :)

Things are good with us. No baby yet, and doesn't look like he is anxious to come. I have been trying to send myself into labor for the past week! McKay Dee is booked and won't schedule me to be started until AFTER my due date 3/6/11. I guess if I've made it 40 weeks, what's a couple more??? Little Man is measuring on the VERY HUGE side, which has got me and my doc a little nervous. She keeps saying things like, "How did you grow such a giant baby?" and "Do big heads run in the family?". If I go 2 weeks over, I am basically planning on an 11 pounder!

The boys are great, getting excited for Jett to join in on their adventures. Ryder is very into Ninjas right now, always jumping off things and wearing only a pair of underwear with a ninja belt. Madden is just into everything these days, I seriously cannot take my eyes off the kids for 2 seconds.

All else is good, I promise to update more. PROMISE. And cross you fingers for us that we have this little one soon, and that he doesn't come out talking with a full set of teeth :)

Boy. Boy. Boy.

2010-09-17T08:12:00.000-07:00

Its a BOY! Another little man is coming to join us on March 8th! We are excited. I feel like I am quite experienced with boys so this will be great :) We think his name will be Jett. Can't wait to meet him ~

Boys of mine

2010-08-28T07:59:00.000-07:00

I love that these two boys are finally starting to be friends! How did I get so lucky to get these two darling kids?

Number 3

2010-08-25T07:02:00.000-07:00

Yep. Number 3 baby is one its way! We are due on March 8, 2011. Three months down, and six to go! If its a boy his name will be spiderman, if its a girl she will be catwoman. (hopefully Ryder will consider other options in the next 6 months:)

updating.

2010-06-28T08:30:00.000-07:00

still working, just a little update! We have most of the paint off!

Now for the hours of sanding....

and, heres a cute picture of my baby. He LOVES pudding!

and if that wasn't enough for me to do....

2010-06-15T15:41:00.001-07:00

I will be working on this for the rest of my life I'm sure. If anyone feels like sanding something.... you can meet me in my garage.

really? I'm only 27.

2010-06-15T12:49:00.000-07:00

New calling for me.

Guess what it is?

I was sorta preparing myself to be called as the Nursery Leader.

Nope. Not even close.

Young Women President.

Let me say that again

YOUNG . WOMEN . PRESIDENT .

Yes, I am serious. I wanted to fall off my chair.

I am excited now, since the shock has worn off a little.

I all of a sudden feel very busy.

Any ideas or advice would be greatly appreciated!

what I got for my birthday.

2010-06-11T15:36:00.000-07:00

1 dozen doughnuts for breakfast, thanks to my sweet husband.

dinner at Rodizio.

dessert from Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory.

Came home to find Kami bringing me 1 dozen white cake sprinkle doughnuts.

Kalani then drops me off a dozen Whimsy cupcakes. Lemon. My favorite.

Is my family trying to kill me?

If so, its working.

I ate it all.

Love all you guys.

Thank You.

(Oh, and I can't forget Katte who delivered 2 tickets to see Eclipse on OPENING DAY, wrapped very neatly in home made Jacob wrapping paper ;)

random facts incase you were wondering.

2010-06-07T15:19:00.000-07:00

are we alive?

yes.

I know. Its been awhile. Too long actually.

We are all alive and well. Just going about the day to day. I am staying busy, especially since Madden decided to start walking. Running is more like it. He is an animal, and I am constantly chasing him through the house. Making sure he doesn't put anything else in the garbage can/toilet/vents. I am sure there are other hiding spots I haven't even discovered yet.

Ryder is still overly obsessed with Batman. Madden has started calling him Batman. Pretty funny. He loves playing the Wii and playing Legos. He will sit and do legos for hours, which is good for my sanity :)

I have been working on my latest project. Erik bought me a vintage baby grand piano for my birthday. I told him its like my new baby. My third child. I am done :) I have been spending every spare minute in the garage tying to scrape yellow, white, off white paint off the thing. I am slowly realizing that it might just take me the rest of my life to finish. It is SO amazing though. I will post pictures soon. If I remember. Erik says I have already lost many brain cells hanging out with all that paint stripper. I am pretty sure I've always been this dumb :)

Thats about it. I will try to update better~

"Mom, did you know Mickey Mouse is a Rat?"

2010-04-20T13:52:00.000-07:00

We had a blast on our little get away. The kids were great on the Long drive, and we had fun at Disneyland and in SanDiego. We stayed in a cute little beach house on Mission Beach. It was great, and I think the boys had more fun at the beach then at Disney or Sea World. Figures :) Disneyland was fun, but Ryder wasn't sure about all the rides. Pirates freaked him out. Peter Pan scared him to death.. and after those he wouldn't even try any others. Oh well. We still had fun. Sea World was fun too, but I will admit - I was a nervous wreck watching the Shamu show. The beach was great, the boys had a blast building sand castles and looking for sea shells. Madden just wanted to eat the sea weed. We ate at alot of fun places, including my new fav In and out. I think I could eat there everyday. Of course I feel as unhealthy as ever. We decided to drive all the way home (12+ hours). It was a little crazy. But we made it. Fun Trip :)

Juice Box.

2010-03-23T10:27:00.000-07:00

Madden is changing everyday. I can't believe he will be ONE next month.

He is a lot more wild then Ryder ever was.

He can climb/fall out of his crib, which creates quite the sleeping issues.

He is moving everywhere. Almost walking, but crawling faster.

He can climb up anything and has absolutely ZERO fear.

He cries at the front door and begs to go outside all day.

He eats grass, mud, rocks, and everything that he gets in his little hands.

He loves Ryder and says 'bubba' (brother I am convinced!)

He says Bye Bye DaDa every morning, Erik is so proud:)

He loves to eat.

His favorites are jello, ritz crackers, granola bars, and oranges.

He loves drinking orange juice from a bottle. Not milk though.

He hates the car.

He started fake coughing to get moms attention.

He loves to try and sneak into the pantry and the bathroom.

Loves bubbles.

He likes scooting around the driveway on his little bike.

Last but not least, he loves juice boxes, which I soon learned was a HUGE mistake...

He was wired until midnight. I have never seen anything like it.

I love this little man.

Great Harvest I Love.

2010-03-03T16:14:00.000-08:00

These cookies are AMAZING! I love Great Harvest. I craved it all the time both times I was pregnant. I was always stopping there to pick up a bag of those perfect, yummy things! I could consume that little bag of SIX cookies before I even got home! Anyway... I found the recipe today and had to rush to the store and get all the ingredients. They turned out fabulous, and I just have to share the recipe. I couldn't keep something this amazing to myself! So, enjoy, but be warned, they are THAT good. I figure since they are made with whole wheat flour we can make them with our food storage :) and they are healthy... right?!

GREAT HARVEST BREAD COMPANY CHOCOLATE CHIP COOKIES

2 cups whole wheat flour

1 teaspoon baking powder

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

1/4 teaspoon salt

2 cups brown sugar, packed

1 cup butter, softened

2 cups rolled oats

2 eggs

1.5 tablespoons molasses

1 tablespoon milk

1 (12 ounce) pkg semisweet chocolate chips

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.

Combine flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt; set aside.

Beat together brown sugar and butter until well combined. Add oats, eggs, molasses, and milk; beat well. Add dry ingredients to beaten mixture; beat until blended. Stir in chocolate chips. Using a 1/4 cup measuring cup, scoop dough and drop about 3 inches apart onto ungreased cookie sheets.

Bake at 350 degrees F for 13 minutes, until just starting to brown around the outside. Cool 2 minutes on cookie sheets. Remove and cool on racks.

Makes 24 giant cookies

Problem Solved

2010-03-03T16:01:00.000-08:00

Does anybody else's little ones ever flop over in their car seat when they shut those eyes? Ryder does nearly everytime and it always makes me feel so bad. I am the mom who has to pull over everytime it happens and straighten his little head. I decided to try something and it worked! Now he has this cute little monster friend and his neck doesn't hurt anymore! Yea, I love it when I get in this crafty mood!

2010-03-01T13:58:00.000-08:00

I love when we wake up in the morning and Ryder says "mom, come here, its Spring outside!" I love when Madden waves to me when I get home and wants to give really slobbery kisses. I love when Ryder tells me that he loves me like Batman loves Catwoman! I love days when all we eat is Jello Jigglers. I love making play-doh, kicking the soccer ball on the grass, blowing bubbles, popping popcorn, digging in the sand box, having picnics, going on our bikes to the mailbox, pulling weeds, making experiments, cleaning up messes... lots of them, and all the other special little things we do.... Because all of this means I get to be with these two little boys that I absolutely adore. They mean everything to me, and I just can't get enough.

Momma of the year? I think so.

2010-02-21T20:38:00.000-08:00

So let me tell you a little about my week...

*My sweet Madden climbed out of his crib. More like he fell out, I just heard a HUGE thud. Poor little one, I seriously still can't figure out how he did it.

*I deleted ALL my photos off my computer. Yes, ALL 5000 of them. I haven't even thought about starting Madden's scrapbook, and now his first year in photos is gone, not to mention thousands of others. Everything, gone. And theres no getting it back. And of course, it isn't backed up. Smart me, I know.

*I managed to tip over a can of Dr. Pepper in my car, and spill the WHOLE thing. Not just a little, the whole darn can. Right inbetween the seats.

*Madden found a nasty old bandaid (who knows where) and lodged it down his throat. Luckily, I heard the gag and was ready for the flip upside down and pound it out method that I have gotten too familiar with. A BANDAID, really? Why not a fruitloop or a cheeto or something somewhat edible?

Am I having some awesome luck or what? I sure hope this next week goes better :)

~don't get me wrong, we did have some good times too. Like... I won 84 tickets on my favorite game at Toads, got to spend some time with my new and quite amazing camera, built a giant spider web out of yarn in our family room, went to dinner with my hubby and two boys, taught Relief Society, and planned our trip to San Diego. I guess my life isn't so bad. Thanks for listening.... ~Jessie

In business.

2010-02-17T19:15:00.000-08:00

So here we go. I'm really doing it this time. Check out my photo blog. I really want to get more into this. Let me know if anybody needs pictures :)

I'll leave you with a few of my latest, of course they are my favorite little male models~

Snowy Day

2010-01-23T20:11:00.000-08:00

Ryder loved the snow today. Madden, not so much. I attempted to get a cute picture of these cute brothers, but as usual, once I got the camera ready.... no one wanted to cooperate. Oh well, maybe next time.

Ryder had fun, Madden cried, and we lasted outside a total of maybe 3 minutes. All that work getting them dressed cute, and we were done. The snow was really pretty, but I think we're reading for digging in dirt and riding our bikes~

Up and Moving.

2010-01-21T08:38:00.000-08:00

I forgot how much things change when they can move. I've installed plug covers, taken all decorations off the floor, and swept my floor five thousand times a day. This little man is fast.

Jesus wants me for a SuNbEaM....

2010-01-04T14:52:00.000-08:00

I can't believe my little man is a Sunbeam. A 'batman sunbeam' if you ask him...! He had a really good first day yesterday. He told me he had to sit in the middle of his teachers, he couldn't touch anyone, and his teachers said they needed a nap. Hmmmm.... I wonder how good he really was? :) Ryder~ I am so proud of the Big Boy you are becoming!

Whats New with us you ask?....

2009-12-21T13:47:00.000-08:00

not much. But, since I haven't updated in awhile, I will try to

make us look like we have been up to something!

Here goes.....

I made cute ties for these two cute boys.

Madden loves the tub... and the mirror... and both together is the best!

Dad got an early Christmas present, this lovely Landcruiser. He is in love, I think he almost likes it more than his wife... Sad, but true:)

I have two kids who love bottles. I will take them away before they start kindergarten,

I promise!

The kids love watching movies in Papa's theatre! We love it too... lots cheaper, and better seats!

Ryder upgraded to a big boy booster seat!

(and lately isn't enjoying pictures at all)

and me? I am doing laundry. At least it seems thats all I do. Who knew 4 people could go through that many clothes each day. I don't mind washing it, but I sure hate folding and ironing... and thats why this pile usually lasts awhile.

(Ryder likes hiding in it too)

We are doing good, and really excited for Christmas. Have a great one if I don't post before!

Madden the cowboy

2009-11-20T15:27:00.000-08:00

Am I just prejudice or is this the cutest dang thing ever? I love this little one!

Halloween, a little late...

2009-11-03T08:32:00.000-08:00

We had a really Fun halloween. It just gets better with more kids. And since Ryder wanted to be Buzz Lightyear, I had to make Madden Woody. And then I thought I better be Jessie, it just seemed to fit. Ryder insisted that Erik be Zurg. For those who don't know Zurg, he is Buzz' enemy.... Anyway, we had fun, and even won the prize at our ward party. Hope you all had a good Halloween.

Six Months Already.

2009-10-27T10:44:00.001-07:00

I can't believe Madden is 6 months. Time has gone SO fast. He already in trying to crawl, eating food (sweet potatoes and squash are his favorites!), and his first tooth came through a couple days ago. He is such a happy baby. He LOVES his big brother! We Love Madden.

the dreaded SWINE FLU....

2009-10-17T15:37:00.000-07:00

and so it came. We knew it would. I have to blog about it since this is like my journal, and I am sure 50 years down the road, I will want to remember this stupid flu.

Erik went to the Doctor on Saturday, he was sick all night Friday and so I made him go. Just to be sure. Nope, not swine flu. Just a sinus infection. He was really sick, sicker then I thought you should get with a sinus infection, but what do I know?

Four days later, Ryder starts with the same symptoms. Cough, really high fever, like really high, like 104. I decide to take him in to the doctor, just to find them swamped with patients, most of whom are wearing masks and coughing their heads off. Great. If he doesn't have something, I am sure we'll leave with something.

Not strep, not sinus infection. He throws up on the doctor when she swabs his throat, his nose starts gushing blood all over when she swabs his nose. It was a mess. When she comes back in she says, yep, he has it. Influenza A.

So is it swine flu or is it not? She said we could send him to the hospital for blood work, but that 90% were coming back positive. I decide thats a good enough answer for me, I can't imagine doing blood work on Ryder. Not that day anyway.

Home we went with Tamiflu, and a huge worry that my five month old will end up with it. And sure enough, he did, about 3 days later. And after a trip to the ER, and another prescription for tamiflu, he is recovering. They are supposedly contagious for 8 days, so here we are, cooped up at home.

I am loving the cuddly baby and three year old that wants to actually hold still for more then 10 seconds, but, I hate swine flu. ~

Family Pics

2009-10-09T13:41:00.000-07:00

so, we had some pictures taken. On my parents side. The whole gang. They turned out really cute, especially since there are 13 little ones !

Aimee Broadbent took them, she did a great job!

He is eating.... FOOD.

2009-10-06T10:38:00.000-07:00

My little man is growing WAY to fast! For the past month or so, as soon as we all sit down at the dinner table Madden starts crying, like screaming. It has been so frustrating because either me or Erik just have to stand up with him. Well, it was bugging me so I decided to just start feeding him. Well, problem solved. Poor kid was crying out to us to FEED HIM. He started rice, oatmeal and is sailing on to squash. And he loves it all... :)

update....

2009-09-27T20:17:00.000-07:00

We are SO boring! I haven't blogged in FoReVeR! So unlike me. I guess we are just boring. Really, we haven't been up to much of anything.

I feel like we stay home alot. I am trying to prepare for winter, like I am a mouse or bear or something. I have bottled peaches, pears, tomatos, pickles. Made strawberry and peach jam, not to mention some baby food for little Madden in a few months. Just call me the Little Red Hen. :)

Is anyone else worrying about the swine flu? I am. TOO much I might add. I can't quit thinking about it, I am sure Erik is sick of my daily plan to prevent it.

Ryder and Madden are doing good. Growing. Ryder had his 3 year check up and had a huge growth spurt. He was in the 80th percentile for his height! And Madden, he is 5 months, and cute as ever. He can roll over and he now eats cereal.

Ryder is really into Toy Story and is going to be Buzz Lightyear for halloween. If you ask, he says he is being 'bud light'. I am sure we will laugh about that for awhile :) Madden will be a cute Woody to go along with Buzz.

Well, theres an update! I will try to be better~

We're still blogging...

2009-09-05T08:25:00.000-07:00

although I must admit, Facebook has got me a little addiction problem. I do prefer this blog, since it is way more personal, and I don't feel like it is quite as big stalking thing. Anywho...

Ryder brought me a snake in the house a few days ago. I was standing in the kitchen and he came in the back garage door. He was wearing Erik's big leather work gloves, and holding a snake. Not a huge one, but a snake. A SNAKE. I immediatly start screaming, get outside, get out of the house. Ryder had this look on his face like I was the biggest baby. He says, "mom, its just a garden snake." I had to laugh, and then I had to scream, and then I think I peed my pants. We took the snake outside, and Ryder put it in his sandbox. (I guess he's been playing with it in there for a while..) YUCK. We had a little talk about snakes, like DON'T BRING THEM IN THE HOUSE EVER!

and other then that we are pretty boring. Ryder and Madden have colds, and of course Ryder's is bad due to asthma. We are pretty couped up in the house, and are trying to get used to it since I plan on staying in all winter~

rock star.

2009-08-24T13:11:00.000-07:00

my Ryder is headed for fame. Watch out ladies, this little man might be a superstar.

Just something to post about...

2009-08-17T08:15:00.000-07:00

okay, this is random. Me and Erik were watching Saturday Night Live. They had a segment where they talked in a 'secret twin language'. Do any of you remember doing something like that when we we were little. I swear I remember. Erik thinks its crazy. In my mind it went something like this. long e tong, mong e, tong e tong, mong e, king nong o wong. (let me know!) ~yes, I realize Erik is probably right. I am crazy. :)

and another photo shoot...

2009-08-13T09:54:00.000-07:00

I took pictures of the Steele Grandkids yesterday. They turned out pretty good I think. I had to mentally prepare myself for a little bit of chaos since these 3 boys can be quite a handful. Madden turned out being the difficult one, but all in all we had a pretty successful picture day! Thanks Boys for being so good :)

August Already....!

2009-08-04T17:49:00.000-07:00

Is Summer almost over? I can't even believe how fast the time seems to fly. I feel like I just had Madden, and its already been more then 3 months. We've been keeping busy with

get-to-gethers, family in town, birthdays, and lots of summer time stuff. Here's a little update in pictures.... enjoy.

Sweet Baby Boy.

Best Friends sittin on the porch

Cheese. Will they ever both look at the same time?!

Happy Little Man.

Even happier Little Man.

And a more serious face. Still darling I think.

We had a little friend get-together at our house. Can you believe all these cute kids belong to us?? Poor Hattie the only girl. She doesn't look like she minds :)

Em, Jyl, Brindee, Kara, Jessie and Heidi.

We need to do this more often!

Ryder's cousin from Arizona came last week. He loved her.

Her name is Bella Jane. He talked about her everyday. He called her Bella Jane-a.

They played really cute together, he was sad to see her go :(

Happy, Happy Birthday....

2009-07-28T12:29:00.001-07:00

Happy Birthday to Ryder!

I can't believe he is Three!

Here is the long awaited Fire Truck Cake, he's been talking about it for at least 6 months:) I think it turned out pretty darn good. It was a lot of work, but totally worth it when I saw his face! He LOVED it!

He got a Fire truck City. It folds up into a fire truck, he was quite excited!

A couple other presents....

we had a fun day at the Dinosaur Park... Ryder's not really into dinosaurs, but he had fun. He loved digging in the sand, and playing on the big dinosaur slide.. and he got to play with his friends, Landen and Porter. Thanks guys:)

Yea! he got a wheel billow (thats how Ryder says it!)

My little fireman

Happy Birthday!

and I had to throw those last pictures in... this is one funny kid! I can't seem to ever stop laughing at him. He is so special to me, and I am grateful to have him in our family! We love you Ryder... hope your special day was lots of fun!

good days... bad days...

2009-07-21T12:44:00.000-07:00

so, can I say... we hate mosquitos. Ryder always reacts to their stupid bites. And I am talking bad reactions, like go to the Dr. for a mosquito bite reactions.

One got his forehead this last week. Day 1, not so bad, just a bite. Day 2, swelling starts. Night of Day 2, where did Ryder go? This doesn't look like my son. Day 3, Oh my heck, what happened to your son? (reply from EVERYONE). I go to see Erik at work, he insists that I go to the Doc. Well, all we find out is Ryder is severely allergic to the nasty little bugs. She said every bite he gets will get worse. Whats a mom to do? I can't lock him inside, and man, I guess we live in the WRONG place. Plain City is breeding ground for Mosquitos. Day 4, looking a little better, Dad still says he looks like Kyle Korver's kid. Today, finally Ryder is back!

On another note... who knew that a $10 kiddie pool could make a boy so happy? I would've invested in this gem long ago if I'd known.

And, we picked, well, Ryder picked the first cucumbers out of the garden. Notice the size... looks like they could've used a few more days. or weeks. But he was so excited!

Finally, happy 3 month birthday to my sweet Madden. How lucky am I to get another angel child? He is so mellow and happy. and not to mention, really cute!

wouldn't it be nice to be this mellow?

Look mom.... CUCUMBERS!

check out that farmer's tan!

I love this :)

swollen face. this isn't as bad as it got, but I felt mean taking pictures of the miserable kid!

get-a-way

2009-07-15T08:09:00.000-07:00

Erik had his Birthday on the 10th! So, we decided to take the kids on a little over night get a way. We stayed in Midway (thats where swiss days is, kinda close to Park City) Erik brought is mountain bike and we had lots of FuN! We stayed at a place called Zermatt. Very nice. They had lots of stuff for Ryder to see and do. On Monday nights they have a picnic on the plaza, and there is a carausal, mini golf, and they can feed the goats on the hillside. Ryder had a good time. We went swimming, ate gelato, I went to the spa and had an amazing pedicure. The next day we stopped by the outlets in Park City. Not really any bargains. Anybody else remember when they really were 'outlets'??? It seems like there just regular stores now. I was looking for a real deal. Maybe I'm cheap. But, all in all, it was fun to get a way with Erik and the boys.

view from our room...

Ryder LOVED the water.

Zermatt Resort. You all should go!

Golfing was FUN

We Fed Goats.

Ryder is now asking for a Pet GoAt....

Fun...

The kids were all crazy about this!

Matty the Bear, with Madden the boy. I find myself calling Madden, Mady. I think its cute, Erik thinks its girly.

Ryder warmed up only enough for a thumbs up!

Madden was so happy the whole time!

Funny Kid loved Banana Gelato.

That's my Ryder.

Happy Anniversary.. Happy 4th.. Happy Day.

2009-07-07T08:02:00.000-07:00

We've had a pretty busy couple weeks. I love the 4th of July. I think it's my favorite Holiday. We celebrated our 5th Anniversary on the 1st. I can't believe its been 5 years already! Wow! I am so happy and so grateful for my husband!

We took our cruiser bikes to the Parkway and then went to lunch. It was a fun date, we don't get those to much anymore... thanks mom for keeping the kids!

Erik and Ryder have been riding there bikes alot, they are so cute together.

Madden's just happy watching in the stroller. He loves to be outside!

We saw an incredible rainbow!

At Plain City Days they had a tractor show. Ryder was in Heaven... he is showing you that he is as big as the wheel!

The parade was fun. My grandma Watson was the grand marshall, so all the family came to see her. It was a fun get-to-gether! Congrats Grandma on being the oldest 1st person to settle in Farr West!

Cute cousins watching the parade!

Madden, Ryder, Sophie, Gracie, Bella, Beckham and Ruby!

If you look close, you see Ryder in a white shirt. He had a blast in the saw dust scramble. He dug for lots of treats and was covered by the end. Where else but in Farr West can you dig through saw dust?? :) I love this city!

Hope you all had a happy 4th!

A new post...

2009-06-24T12:37:00.000-07:00

I had a few pictures of what we've been up to latley, so I thought I would post. Madden is full of smiles, he is so cute. He finally is really smiling and recognizing people... and not to brag, but he is a real momma's boy:) He had his 2 month check up and weighed 12 lb. 5 oz. !! getting so big!

We had family night this week and learned about Temples. We looked at pictures of Temples, and then built our own out of Sugar Cubes! Ryder loved it... and Erik loved it too. It was really fun, and I must say it turned out pretty good. I couldn't believe Erik had never eaten a sugar cube. Really??! What a deprived child! Needless to say, Ryder ate all he could shove in to his little mouth. Must be more like his mom then we thought:) After that, we went to Farr's (like we needed more sugar!) and then around the Ogden Temple. It was fun!

So, update on Ryder.. he still is sporting a green cast. I think he is actually starting to like it. He can reach the pedals so much better on his bike! One more week of it, then we can go back to a normal summer... swimming, sandbox and running through the sprinklers!

My Madden...

2009-06-16T15:29:00.001-07:00

okay... another post of my sweet baby. I couldn't resist.

A good day.

2009-06-15T06:17:00.000-07:00

yesterday we had stake conference. Elder Jeffrey R. Holland came and spoke to us. It was amazing to have an apostle so close. He also called my dad to be the Stake President. It was a great couple days. He gave great talks, and was a really funny guy. I was surprised, for some reason I thought he would be really serious! We sat a couple rows from the front, and after the meeting at the Dee Event Center we got to meet him. My two kids even behaved! All in all it was a great Sunday, and I am excited for my dad, he will be a great Stake President to our new Farr West Poplar Stake. I love him and look up to him so much!

congrats dad! I love you.

Poor Boy.

2009-06-12T08:52:00.000-07:00

Yesterday Ryder tripped running into the kitchen :( not really any harder of a fall then usual.. but when he tried to stand he just fell. Then he cried and cried.... and cried. His foot started swelling and he was limping pretty bad. I thought we better get it checked, even though I was sure they would just think I was super paranoid and tell me it was bruised. Well, at the hospital he got an X-ray. We prepped him by telling him they were gunna take a picture of his bone. He had to bring his camera too. We have lots of blurry pictures of the waiting room! Then we headed to his doctor. She came in and said it wasn't broken, but the bone had bowed. So it is arched now. She said it would probably snap if they don't cast it :( They couldn't cast it till the swelling went down, so right now it is in like a partial cast. In one week if it is still arched, then he has to get a cast. We are crossing our fingers that it looks better, cause so far its been 1 day, and he wants 'THIS BOOT OFF'. wish us luck. by the way, he immediatly figured out how to pedal his bike with 1 foot. he is quite a kid!

of course we had to put YELLOW bandaids all over the hurt foot :)

waiting for his x-ray

still waiting, and being very brave too!

his bike makes it all better!

Blessing Day!

2009-06-09T14:28:00.001-07:00

Sunday was Madden's blessing day! The day was great, his daddy gave him a beautiful blessing and we had a great day with our family. Madden looked so cute in his little outfit, and he was a perfect angel all day. We are so lucky to have such a great baby.

another failed attempt to get a decent family picture!

Mom & Madden

Little blue eyed Boy! (and his hair is looking reddish:)

Thanks to all our family for supporting us and helping with everything! We love you!

Flip Flops!

2009-06-04T18:54:00.000-07:00

Is this cute or what? I found these little tiny flip flops for Madden! I had to share!

Our May... In a Nutshell.

2009-05-28T14:45:00.000-07:00

Well, I can't believe May is almost over! I decided I would just do one post about what we have been up to this Month... its been pretty eventful I guess....(for us anyway:)

me and my two cute boys!

Yea! My parents are FINALLY moved all the way in to their new house! Its so fun to help decorate with my mom, and the house is Beautiful!

All of us kids... me, my four brothers, their wives, and lots of kiddos! This was on Mother's Day!

Joy School went to the Fish Farm for their last day, theres Bella, she loved the FISH!

My Cute Ryder, he thought it was pretty great too!

Good thing Uncle Cam was there to take the fish off the hook!

The Carlot had a party for the New Camaro! Papa Steele came! Here are all the Steele Boys!

The Boys in there matching guitar shirts, and Madden's little Air Jordan's. So cute!

One Month Already!

2009-05-21T06:29:00.001-07:00

Madden is one month today! I can't even believe it...! He is growing so fast, and we already can't remember our lives without him :) He is almost smiling at us... he weighs over 9 lbs... he loves his baths... he sleeps 5 hours at a time during the night (yea!!).... he loves to watch Ryder... he is a GrEaT baby! We love you Madden!

Madden's Announcement

2009-05-15T13:14:00.001-07:00

Perfect!

2009-05-15T13:12:00.000-07:00

Three weeks and I finally got them to take a nap at the same time! The title says it all...... perfect:)

Boys!

2009-05-15T13:04:00.000-07:00

I had to post these cute pictures of my two cute little guys! Madden is growing so fast, I have already had to put a bunch of newborn clothes away cause he's too chunky :) I love chunky babies, but it makes me kinda sad to think he is already growing up! I had to get a new stroller.... plus, I am obsessed with strollers so this was a great time to 'have' to get one! I love it, and its fun to have the boys next to each other. Madden loves laying in it and being free from his carseat.

Happy Mother's Day!

2009-05-09T15:56:00.001-07:00

Just wanted to wish my momma a happy day! She is the best mom and the greatest friend, and I can't imagine a day without her! I love you:)

(*picture of us in Barcelona when my parents were on the mission)

And on another note.... I have to say, that I am so lucky to be a mom. I love these two little boys more then anything. Everyday is so fun, and there isn't anything I would rather do.... thanks Ryder and Madden for being such special little guys! I love YOU!

"I hope that my child looking back on today, remembers a mother who had time to play. Children grow up while we're not loooking. There'll be years ahead for cleaning and cooking. So cobwebs be quiet and dust go to sleep. I'm rocking my baby and babies don't keep. " -unknown

Cute!

2009-04-29T06:47:00.001-07:00

Adjusting to Two!

2009-04-26T12:54:00.001-07:00

Well, we've been home 3 days now, and things are going good! Better then I had planned and prepared myself for. Madden is doing great, he is quite the little eater:) And Ryder loves him to pieces, he asks me a hundred times a day if he can pet his hair. And he is always saying, 'Mom, he is so cute'. I can tell these two boys will be the best of friends! Enjoy some new pictures...

Baby Madden

getting ready to go home. He looks so tiny in the carseat!

New Best Friends!

Madden and Charli, cute cousins (they are 2 weeks apart!)

What a good Big Brother!

He's Here!!!

2009-04-22T17:58:00.000-07:00

April 21st 2009

Madden is here, and he is darling! Here's the story....

Monday night I was feeling it, LaBoR!! We decided to go to the hospital at about midnight! I thought for sure it was the real thing... Nope, I was wrong. I was still dilalated to a 2-3 and 80% (like for the last month). I was contracting, but after walking the halls for an hour I hadn't progressed so home we went. Then on Tuesday, I had an appointment with Machel at noon. When I got there, I was a 4, still contracting, and thinner, so she told me to go to the mall and walk for a while and come back. So I did. I was in pain, it wasn't a very fun shopping trip :( But, when Erik took me back I was a 5!! Yeah! She told me to go home, get my bag, and get to the hospital! So, thats what we did. I wasn't really contracting anymore, but I went anyway, since I was a 5 and all!

6:00PM We get to Labor and Delivery... they were waiting for us, and took us straight to delivery. (I wasn't expecting it to go quite as fast, but why complain!)

7:00PM Epidural, I still wasn't in pain, but who would want to do this without an epidural??! By the way, it was great! The doctor was really funny, and it didn't hurt too bad.

8:00PM Machel comes and breaks my water

8:30PM They give me a little pitosin, it works way too fast, they check me, I'm an 8! Turn off pitosin :)

9:50PM They call Machel, she's on her way, we are thinking maybe a couple more hours, she checks me, is a little surprised, tells me to push, and there's the head!

10:08PM Madden is born after 4 pushes. Wow, that wasn't bad at all. I told Erik it went so fast, I almost feel a little bad, like I missed something!

There's the story, it was a great labor, and perfect delivery! Little Madden weighed 7 lbs. 8 oz. and was 19 inches long. He has lots of dark hair and looks a lot like his cute big brother Ryder. We are very excited and feel so blessed to get to be the parents of two perfect boys! Enjoy all the pictures!

Me and Madden with my incredible Dr. Machel!

I love her, and can't imagine having another Doc!

(don't look at me in the pic, I look totally stoned!)

New Little Madden!

Brand New!

waiting for our baby! (after the epidural!)

I ate all the suckers they give ya! YUM!

Having his 1st bath!

Ryder loves him SO much!

Our Family Photo

Ryder when he first saw Madden, he ran right

in the room and said.. Hi Madden! All he

wants to do is hold him!

His hair has a little auburn in it!

I am so happy he likes him!

What a sweet Baby!

a Proud Daddy!

update...

2009-04-19T19:49:00.000-07:00

No, he hasn't come yet! I am still pregnant, huge and getting quite miserable I might add. I only went 8 months with Ryder, and for all of you girls out there that go the whole 40 weeks, or heaven forbid go over.... I totally look up to you. You are stronger women than myself:) It looks like Madden is holding out for this Saturday, April 25th! I am nervous to be started, any thoughts about it to calm me down are appreciated!

Cute Easter Boy!

2009-04-11T14:41:00.001-07:00

I love dressing Ryder up for Easter every year! This year, I think he looks pretty cute. He even was a good boy while I made him do a photo shoot! Here's a few of my favorites! I sure LoVe this little MaN! Hope everyone has a great Easter tomorrow!

Belly Painting...

2009-04-06T13:39:00.000-07:00

If you don't like seeing HUGE bellies, this might not be for you! Anyway... Since I am married to quite an artist, we have a tradition that Erik paints my belly when I am pregnant. (strange?? maybe!) Well, this time Ryder chose the scene, of course, Firetrucks! I think it turned out pretty good. I am huge. Madden has got to be coming soon. I can't possibly get any bigger can I?! Well, we had a fun time, Ryder even got his arms covered in art, and he didn't want to wash it off. I hope this isn't the beginning of a tattoo habit:) Enjoy the pics, or skip em, if you don't feel like throwing up!

Welcome Baby Charli !!

2009-04-06T10:19:00.000-07:00

We have a cute new niece! Charli Anna was born Saturday morning! She is such a cutie!! Congrats to Kami and Jordan, she is beautiful!

Baby Update & Other Stuff..

2009-03-31T13:08:00.000-07:00

Well, yesterday I went to the doctor cause I pretty much felt like I was in LaBoR! I was hurting so bad I couldn't walk without crossing my legs. I felt like the baby was falling out! (not a fun feeling) Well, I got checked. I was dialated to a 2 and 80% effaced. I am still a bit too early to deliver, and after dealing with having Ryder at 36 weeks and going through the NICU and all that, I am perfectly happy to carry this baby to 40+ weeks :) I am not sure that is going to happen, but for now I am camping out on the couch and not moving much. (except to take Ryder to the bathroom, which he learned real quick will get me up and moving fast!) On another note.... I finally gave in and rented Twilight. I decided I needed to find out what all this hype was about. No, I've never read the book, and honestly, the thought of vampires sorta creep me out. So, I never got into the whole thing. Well, I rented it, and watched it. I was right... it did creep me out. Who would let their 10 year old girls see that?? Wow. Now, it wasn't that bad, just wierd. and depressing and dark. And I guess I must be the only girl in the world who isn't madly in love with Edward! I'm not really into the white skin and red lips. So there ya have it, my Twilight review. I hope I don't upset anyone:)

When will they arrive??

2009-03-27T07:07:00.000-07:00

Me and my sister in law Kami are both due here pretty quick. She has a couple weeks left, and we have a couple more! They are having a little girl, we are having a little boy! It has been really fun being pregnant together, especially watching myself grow twice as big:) Serious. Look at the picture:) Are we sure I am only having one baby? Anyway, this was at her shower, it was alot of fun! Hopefully cute pictures of the new cousins will be here soon! Maybe they will arrive the same day:)

Whimsy Cupcakes!

2009-03-23T12:34:00.000-07:00

My sister-in-law Kalani has a CUPCAKE business! If you need cupcakes for any event, or if you're like me and just want to eat them all yourself, check out her blog! She is doing a Cupcake giveaway.. whats better then that? Can I add that they are amazing.. tasting and looking too (just go to whimsycupcakes.blogspot.com)

Update on Baby Madden...

2009-03-19T14:45:00.000-07:00

Madden is definetly getting big! We went to the doctor today and he is already 6 lbs. I can't believe we are counting down the weeks now:) I am almost 35 weeks! My doctor doesn't think I'll go full term because of how BIG the baby is, and because I had Ryder at 36 weeks. (I am still counting on going full term, just cause I probly will:) Anyway, another fun thing is that Madden had a head full of Hair. It was pretty amazing, you could see tons of it! I can't wait to see him!

I need your AdViCe!!

2009-03-14T12:14:00.001-07:00

Okay, I need help. As much as I hate to admit it, I am really struggling with my sweet little boy. I am sure I am not the only one in the world with a really wild 2 and 1/2 year old that doesn't share or listen, but man, I sure feel like I'm alone on this one. I thought I was an okay parent, but now I feel more like we could really benefit by having super nanny come pay us a visit. Ryder sometimes is an angel, but sometimes, just the opposite. I am not a real stickler on punishment (probably my #1 problem.), but I am curious to know what works for you other moms out there. What do you do? Any advice to get me through these terrible twos would be greatly appreciated!

What we've been up to...

2009-03-10T08:24:00.000-07:00

Since it seems like its been awhile since I said anything, I thought I would fill everybody in on what we've been up to... I am to that huge, pregnant point where you just don't feel like doing anything, so pretty much we just stay home, watch movies and play tractors. I've been working trying to finish up a few projects I had already started. I made Ryder an I-Spy bag for church, which is quite a hit, he loves looking through it to find his little treasures! And I finally finished this quilt I started like a year ago, I guess I will use it for the baby, good thing its boy colors:) And I can't forget the cute P.J. pants for Ryder and the baby. Ryder is pretty excited that they match and that they are John Deere, his most favorite thing ever:) and I am still trying to get the nursery all put together before our new little guy arrives! Its coming along, I just need to put stuff on the walls! We took Ryder out to fly kites on Sunday at Papa Johns field. We thought he would be a little more interested, he mostly just wanted to play in the dirt. He did have to wear his favorite glasses to block the wind. He is quite the kid. (see picture) Other then that its just the same old for us. We are doing good, and the baby is growing. He will hopefully be making his arrival sometime after the 20th of April. It better not still be snowing! We are ready for spring!!

Today in Nursery...

2009-03-01T13:52:00.002-08:00

Ryder is finally going to Nursery... (and not screaming, holding on our legs or begging us to take him home) I must admit, I never really thought this day would come, but my little man is growing up. He now loves nursery, his favorite part is singing time, the teacher tells me he sings his little heart out. He loves Popcorn popping and Once there was a snowman! Well, today when I went to get him, the teacher asked if Erik and I could come next week. I think to help out, but now I am convinced that he is naughty and they need us there to control him??!! What to do? I told them we would, but now all day I have stressed about my cute little MoNsTeR :) I told Erik, they are probably shocked, cause he wouldn't talk to anyone for the first 6 months we lived here, and now he is bouncing off the walls. The teacher also asked me to maybe not feed him so much sugar before church.... serious. He can be a little wild, I sure love him though!

Still loving this bargain stuff...

2009-02-24T16:04:00.000-08:00

Well, I had another really good shopping day. I know you guys probably get sick of hearing, but here goes... $167.00 of stuff for $60. I have to tell myself I don't need anything else, this is addicting! My New Years goal is to get our food storage, and so far, we're pretty on the ball!

Can he get any CUTER?!

2009-02-16T11:52:00.000-08:00

Ryder LoVeS building snowmen! Thank goodness for all this snow. I had to post this picture, I thought it was so CUTE!

Happy Valentines Day!

2009-02-14T14:53:00.002-08:00

I love Valentine's Day, and I had to post a picture of me and my great husband. I am the luckiest girl ever, and I love him more and more every day! (okay that was cheesy.... oh well:) Happy Valentines to everybody!

Where can I get an outfit like that??!

2009-02-09T08:01:00.001-08:00

Did anybody else see this? I mean did anybody NOT see this? Honestly, what was she thinking?

Grocery Savings...!

2009-02-07T13:02:00.000-08:00

Well, I love a bargain. I am really jealous when I hear about these people that get their groceries for nothing! I have always dreamed about doing this. I know, I probably sound like a dork, but I am really into it. I have been checking out a few websites lately trying to score some great stuff. I really like this girls blog I found... www.asweetsale.blogspot.com, and she has a link to grocery smarts.com. I also like pinching your pennies.com. Anyway, today I went shopping and got a couple really good deals. Overall my grand total was $80.85. After savings I spent $45.04. Its not great, not compared to lots of success stories I hear, but hey, its a start. I hope to get really good at this. I went to Walmart and Smiths. Walmart always gives me a hard time about printable coupons, so I started carrying their coupon policy in my purse. They can't argue with that. :) Heres a picture of what I got....

The best deals I found today were:
Progresso soups $1.25 and with the printable coupons they were $.15 each
Kashi Cereal Bars $3.00 w/coupon they were $1.00
Wacky Mac Pasta was $.75 after coupon
and the best deal, and this is funny since we don't have a cat.. (my mom does:) Purina Cat Food $3.98 w/coupon it was free!

The rest of my stuff either had just regular coupons, and alot of it I got a smiths using my card. Like red, seedless grapes were $.99 LB. and gallons of milk were $1.67. Thats the lowest I've seen that in awhile!

Hope that didn't bore you all, I could go on and on all day. I love this :)

Update on us....

2009-01-23T16:09:00.000-08:00

Well, it seems like this month has flown by. We have stayed busy, and thank goodness not had any more scares with the pregnancy :) I am such a proud mom, I have to tell you Ryder is finally potty trained. It's been a long time coming, but it is totally worth all the stress I went through. (and I am sure he went through alot himself) It was one of my new years resloutions, and I am shocked that it has finally happened. The funny part is, all it took was boxer briefs. Who knew? I thought all kids liked big boy underwear, but Ryder 'prefers' the boxer kind. If I would've known, this would've been easier. But, good job Ryder, we are SO proud of you!

We took Ryder bowling for the 1st time, one of his potty rewards. He loved it, and ended up winning me and Erik. Erik thinks its because he had bumpers and used the guide thing, but I really think he is a bowler, not to mention me and Erik stink at bowling! And he keeps telling me, 'mom, its not a bowling ball in your tummy'! Sure feels like one!

My sister-in-law Kristin who lives in Denver, was in town last week for work. She works for GE, doing demos with ultrasound machines to doctor offices and such. Anyway, we were lucky and she came over to our house and let us have a peek at our cute little man, who I might add looks Exactly like his big brother Ryder! We had alot of fun. My other sister-in-law Kami came over too, we had a good time. Thanks so much to Kristin, we LOVE your job! :)

So there ya have it, our life in a nutshell!

I can't help myself....

2009-01-16T08:52:00.000-08:00

Okay, so I crave donuts. All the time. Since yesterday, I have wolfed down three. I know, I have to gain some control over this. To make things worse, we went to Tasty's for dinner. (YUM, I LOVE IT, and yes I make Erik drive me to Layton quite often for these wonderful little treats) We were like the last people there before close, and I finished my food and donut, and I really couldn't even think about leaving without taking some donuts to go. So I ask the girl if I can get a few to take home. She says, well, we throw them all away so how many do you want?? Are you KIDDING ME? wrong thing to ask a big pregnant woman. I wanted so bad to say, just box um all up, I'll take them all, but I can see Erik in the corner of my eye, and I can tell he is sooo embarrassed... So, I left with 3 donuts. I just feel so bad all the rest went to waste. Watch out Tasty's, I might be stopping by ever night about 6:55PM!
(p.s.... my favorite is just like the picture, white cake, white frosting, sprinkles... how pathetic)

When My Mom isn't Feeling Good.....

2009-01-08T14:39:00.000-08:00

I can get into all sorts of TrOuBLe!! :)

Labor&Delivery.. The ER... and a Happy New Year

2009-01-01T19:21:00.000-08:00

Well, what a week. Tuesday I didn't feel so great after lunch. this is pretty normal for me since I get sick after I eat quite often. It got worse, by about 5 or 6, I had the worst cramps ever and was like having contractions. I panicked, of course I should, since I am only 23 weeks along. I decided that I better get checked out, so not being able to reach my doctors office, me and Erik decided to just drive up to Circle of Life and hope that my doctor Machel was still working. (Tuesday is her late night, so I was praying she was still there). Luckily she was and they took us right back. I was sick to my stomach, and hurting real bad. She took a look at the baby, who was just fine, moving like crazy, but then she said I was having to many contractions and we needed to go straight to the hospital. What??? My baby isn't due until April, I really don't want the New Years Baby. I was worried about everything, but we went and they hooked me right up to the monitors. I was contracting so they gave me a shot to calm it all down. They did blood work and I had a really high white count, which they assumed was just some sort of bacterial infection ( maybe a bad flu or something) They kept me for awhile and then decided I could go home on an antibiotic and a med to stop any more contractions. What a night. I thought it was over, and then I woke up at about 4 AM on my right side. I thought I was dying. I was like paralyzed in pain, couldn't even move. I was in Ryder's bed (this frequently happens half way through the night when he takes over my spot in our bed!) I just had to yell out for Erik, who had to come lift me out of bed. I hurt so bad. I knew something was not right, so soon my parents were at our house with Ryder, and we were back in Labor and Delivery. They checked baby, who was still just fine (thank goodness) and sent us down to the ER, telling me it was very likely an appendix that needed to be taken out. Great.... Well, we got down there, and seriously I laid in that bed for 7 hours. Had lots of needle sticks, lots of pee tests, an ultra sound, and then an MRI (which I was not really excited to do being pregnant and all). They told me that since I had already taken some antibotics that this could be an appendix that didn't show up, so I am all worried. Then the Doctor makes me feel even worse by saying that you don't want to let it rupture or they will just have to take the baby. No Thank You.... Well they send me home again, and by 6 PM I am killing again, worse, and its only right sided. Well, my parents thank goodness, were so great, they were already in South Ogden, they called a friend who is a surgeon, who by some miracle he was the doc on call at McKay. He said he would be happy to meet us in the ER and give us his opinion. My doctor Machel even came over to check on us all (she is amazing). After more tests, more IV's (another really crappy one I should add), and talking to the surgeon, he doesn't think this is an appendix. The MRI showed my Right ovary (sorry if thats personal) was way out of place, shoved clear up above the baby and tangled in a big mess of veins and clots. Doesn't that sound great? Nobody is sure if that is what this is, but good news is, I made it home about 20 minutes before New years, and still got to watch the big ball drop on TV. (even though I was really in pain, and pretty miserable.) Now we just wait, and hope this all passes and the rest of this pregnancy goes smooth. Wish me luck, oh ya, Happy New Year!

Santa brought him a BARN!

2008-12-26T14:50:00.000-08:00

Just what he asked for, and this boy couldn't be any happier! He plays with this barn non-stop. He plays on it, in it, around it, and even beats on it with his new tool set :) Great Job Erik! (I mean Santa) :) We hope you all had a very merry Christmas!

Peek-A-Boo

2008-12-18T15:06:00.000-08:00

We had our big ultrasound today! Little Baby is growing and all looked well (what a relief, I really worry about appointments like these) Anyway, he mostly wanted to hide from us. Ryder thought it was quite a fun little game playing Peek-a-boo with his new little brother!

Funny, he hated it last year...

2008-12-16T08:01:00.000-08:00

Em reminded me of Ryder's dislike for snow last year. I had to re-post this picture, just so you all could see how things change. I got a good laugh out of it....

Somebody at our house....

2008-12-15T06:55:00.000-08:00

LOVES THE SNOW! Where did Ryder come from? We're not sure.... all we know is he loves the snow. After begging all morning yesterday, Erik took him out in it. He was in heaven! Me and Erik are not huge cold, snow people, but our little guy wants nothing more then to freeze his little hands and face :) I guess it does make it look a little more like Christmas, so thats good! Hope everybody had fun in the SnOw!!!

Looks like Dad might be getting a snow shovel for Christmas!

I Love This!

All READY to PLAY!

No, this isn't a joke....

2008-12-03T14:43:00.000-08:00

this really is ME. I am huge, I told you all. I am 19 weeks today with this giant - little man. I am doing good, and so far this pregnancy is going really well. I think we have decided on the name Madden. Middle name is still a debate :) This picture compares to the one when I was 7 or 8 months along with Ryder. By my third or fourth baby, I may not be able to get out of bed after the first month! :)

baby BOY`update :)

2008-11-26T07:28:00.000-08:00

Well, we went to the doctor last night, and our little guy is definitely still a BOY! I keep having people tell me that it could change, and I really had my hopes up for a boy. So we were relieved to know that 'he' is a BOY! Everything looks good, he was darling, sucking his thumb and kicking like crazy. It seems like it has been a long time since I was pregnant. Man, you forget things fast. This is quite a journey and we feel so blessed to be adding to our little family. I am 18 weeks, so nearly half way there. And his name is still undecided, but we are leaning towards Madden, since Ryder is still set on it :) He knows something we don't, at least thats what it seems sometimes! Anyway, I will post belly pictures soon.. (and yes, my belly is huge) I'm already having to wear maternity pants and my doctor Machel last night, said, 'Wow, you're really poking out'.... way to make me feel even bigger :)

Is it too early??!

2008-11-24T08:08:00.000-08:00

We couldn't wait. We had to put up the trees. Ryder has been asking for awhile now and I finally gave in! I thought for sure we would have alot of broken ornaments, but he has done really well. He loves 'His' tree. When I found the ornaments last year I couldn't resist. It is definitely an all boy tree:) We set his up in his playroom, with a train and all underneath. It is fun to have a new house this year and places to decorate. I am realizing though that my few Christmas things don't really fill up the house. I guess its time to go shopping:)

We're having a BOY!

2008-10-29T06:44:00.000-07:00

Yay, we are so excited.... our little baby is a boy! Ryder knew all along, and he is really happy to be getting a brother. He keeps saying, 'he play trains with me'. He can't wait:) Last night he kissed my tummy and said, 'Mom, get baby out!" He was pretty upset that he couldn't come then! It might be a long 6 more months:) We are trying to decide on a name for this little guy. I like to have a name right away so I can actually call the baby something. We have a few in mind, but nothing set in stone. We like Jett, Cruz, Hazen, Hinckley, and Madden. Ryder is calling the baby Madden. That might end up being the name since Ryder is dead set on it. It is almost like when I mentioned it around Ryder, he already knew that it was his brother. It is kinda wierd... whenever we suggest something else, he says, 'no, my madden.' So we'll see. I'm not sure its unique enough for me. Let me know what you guys think??

Little Fireman

2008-10-26T14:34:00.001-07:00

Ryder is such a cute little fireman! I actually had bought him a darling Pirate costume for this year, but he was having nothing to do with it. He wanted to be a fireman, and for those of you who have little kids this age, you know that they usually get exactly what they want! Well, I decided to make him a cute fireman (all the ones I found were really cheesy), I think it turned out pretty cute, and he couldn't be happier!

2008-10-02T14:00:00.000-07:00

We're excited to tell everybody that Baby Steele is coming the First of May! Ryder is excited too (we think). He keeps saying 'big brother'! We think he'll be a great one. We'll keep ya posted on the growth (which is already happening pretty quickly:)

We Love Fall!

2008-09-27T16:04:00.000-07:00

I just love this time of year! I love that you get to decorate for fall, I love that it isn't so hot outside, that it gets darker earlier, that you get to wear pants and sweatshirts, and that you get to go to the PUMPKIN PATCH! I took Ryder to the pumpkin patch for the first time when he was just 3 months and its been our little tradition each year. He loves picking out pumpkins and I love taking pictures of the whole thing. He is so funny and cute and this year was definitely no exception! He has this new face that is hilarious, and he says the funniest things. (the newest of which is Happy Weeny (happy halloween) :) He said it to us last night, and we all about fell over laughing:) Here is a look back at the pumpkin patch, Enjoy! and Happy Fall!

USBORNE BOOKS!

2008-09-19T08:10:00.000-07:00

Hi everybody! I just wanted to let everybody know that I started selling usborne books. If you haven't ever seen them, you need to:) They are incredible. I am going to have a party at my house in a few weeks. If you want to come, let me know, or if you want to host a party at your house (and get free books) let me know too! You can check them out at www.ubah.com/X2501 (thats my page, until I figure out how to change it to something better:) HAPPY READING!

After the Rain....

2008-09-02T07:53:00.000-07:00

We had quite the rain storm yesterday! And wind too. Our neighborhood had random toys (little swimming pools, blow up toys..etc) scattered all over. Last week we dug up this nasty rock garden on our back yard and are planning on just putting grass there, but with the storm we learned it is some kind of drain. It turned in to a little lake and Ryder thought it was the happiest day of his life He loved playing in the "Mun". (Mud)

Zoo, Firetrucks and Big Balloons!

2008-08-18T06:43:00.000-07:00

We have had a pretty busy, eventful month so far. Ryder got a zoo membership for his birthday so we went there. He loved it, especially the train and riding on the carousal. Then on Saturday we went to the McKay Dee NICU Reunion. Ryder was in heaven cause the firetruck and lifeflight were there! He even got to sit in the firetruck, he liked it until another little girl inside pulled the siren, then he was done! We ended the week with the Balloon Festival in the Valley. It was fun, I was a little disapointed though, I thought the balloons would fly, not just sit there on the ground :) It was still pretty.

StRoLLeR ObSeSsIoN!

2008-08-05T13:24:00.001-07:00

Call me obsessed... I've got a thing with strollers. Erik thinks I am crazy, maybe he's right! I think strollers are like shoes and purses. I like to have everything match. Especially stroller and diaper bag, I'm really crazy about that:) Well, I had a graco stroller and carseat when Ryder was a baby... I liked it, didn't love it. It was way to heavy to throw in and out of the car. Well, when he was about 6 months I bought this Maclaren stroller, and I have loved it. We have gotten so much use out of it. It is so light and so easy to fold up and it reclines so when he is asleep it works too! We have taken it on all our vacations and I love it! (should I be a stroller critic or what??!) Well, yesterday I was on KSL (my latest addiction) and I was looking through the FREE Ads. What do ya know, there is a stroller, and a brand new one at that. The lady ended up with it at an auction and she didn't know what she had. Its a Bebelove and it retails for like $300.00! She lived in West Jordan but me and Ryder made quite an adventure out of it and set out yesterday to pick it up! Wow, a free stroller! It is really nice, its missing one part but I called and It is $25 to replace. And after all that, I think I will sell it rather than keep it, its nice, cute, but I'm not crazy about the color. Someday (not an announcement), when we need another stroller I am gonna know everything about every kind out there! Maybe I should start a Stroller Blog:)

I Like fRoGs!

2008-08-02T08:26:00.000-07:00

Guess he is all BOY! We have frogs at our new house, well their more like Toads, big ones.. (gross) Ryder has some sort of love for these gross, slimy little creatures. He can just reach out and grab one, its actually pretty amazing:) Anyway, last night he had a lot of fun catching, playing with, and mostly squeezing to death these toads! He sure is cute though:)

Birthday Boy!

2008-07-27T10:58:00.000-07:00

What a Fun Birthday! Ryder was SPOILED ROTTEN... again! We had a fun John Deere Party, mom even made a pretty cool cake! We had a pinata and a lot of FUN!

Happy Birthday Ryder!

2008-07-27T10:37:00.000-07:00

I can't believe my little boy is TWO! We had a little party for him last night and it was so fun! He loves tractors so we had a John Deere Party! This was the invitation! I must say, I think it turned out pretty cute:) More pictures to come...

American Idol Tour...

2008-07-15T11:08:00.000-07:00

First I have to tell my cute husband THANK YOU SO MUCH for taking me to the American Idol concert.... he was a little hesitant because he of course doesn't want to look like a 'teeny bopper' as he calls them. Them being probably 90% of the crowd :) But, I loved it and I think he secretly had a little fun too... My favorites were Brooke, Jason, Of course David Archuleta who is 100 times better in person then he was on the show... he can really dance! David Cook was great and of course I LOVE Michael Johns. Anyway, it was really fun, we had good seats on the 10th row, and we didn't get stuck next to people who drank (always a plus at a concert). (maybe its cause they were all like 12-16 years old:)!!) When David Archuelta came out you couldn't even believe the crowd, he just had to stand there for like 10 minutes cause he couldn't even get a word in. Finally he just started bawling.. I don't think he quite knew what to do... I'll post pictures soon :) thanks again to Erik, theres nothing wrong with looking like a 'teeny bopper' is there?? !! :)

4th of July Weekend

2008-07-06T14:54:00.000-07:00

I love the 4th of July! The parade this year was so fun, Ryder loved watching it and especially getting all the candy. The best part was the people who threw otter pops! I think we all ate about 10 each while we sat there :) Ryder and his cousins decorated shirts and rode in the parade. Ryder loved the giant tractors that took up the whole road. After the parade we went to have lunch with my family. Ryder had his first KFC and actually ate more than he ever has. He was running around with a chicken leg and loving every minute of it! Then we did the annual Farr West Greek Food at the Park and watched the sky divers. Ryder wasn't sure about that, but after he kept and still keeps telling us he saw 'Guys' in the sky, and they looked like 'Bugs'. How cute is he?! We saw the fireworks from the car, he didn't cry this year though. Slowly he is getting a little braver I think :) On Saturday morning we left to go up to Erik's families cabin in the Unitas. We had a lot of fun all day. Ryder LOVED the dirt and by the end of the day we weren't sure if his skin really was white. We had yummy dutch oven, and I actually made a peach cobbler. It turned out good :) (it was really hard... cake mix and peaches !) We planned on staying the night, but at about 9 Ryder started crying saying 'Home, Home'. It was kinda sad. He really is a homebody. We never go anywhere, so he had a hard time going to sleep. We left and made it home at about 12:30. He slept the whole way home and most of the night. Anyway, thats a long story I guess. We had a fun weekend though. I love holidays where you get to be with family. Its the best.

I think Ryder's found a JOB!

2008-07-03T15:50:00.000-07:00

This week we did the funnest thing! Ryder and all his cousins got to go on a little field-trip to Pizza Man, like the best pizza place on earth! It was really fun, they learned to make the dough, roll it into the unbelievably good bread sticks, and then they all got to make a mini pizza! Ryder loved it, although most of his toppings didn't make it onto his pizza :) I think he was a little hungry! Anyway, we had a great time. Thanks to Pizza Man, they were so nice to let us in there and do this for the kids:)
The whole group!

Little Pizza Man!

He would rather eat the ham then put it on the pizza :)

All finished and ready to go eat the PIZZA! (which I must add, he LoVeD!!)

July 1st... 4 years :)

2008-07-01T07:12:00.000-07:00

Well, today is mine and Erik's 4 year anniversary! Wow, I can't believe that time goes so fast. I feel like we just got married yesterday. Anyway, I had to wish Erik a happy anniversary and tell him how much I love him. He is a great husband and father and my life is very blessed.