McQueen

Stevie Jill

2012-02-10T08:00:00.000-08:00

I can't believe this little peanut will be turning one in two weeks!

started walking at 10 months
busy, busy, busy
independent
tough
always smiling and very content
says Hi, Bye, Momma, Dadda
waves to everyone
hates to be fed to and has to feed herself...super messy
climbed out of the bath tub
climbed out of her crib
started taking a bottle at 11 months
Takes 2 naps
goes to bed at 7
mimics everyone
does this hillarious fake laugh
loves Oliver
always knocks Oli's race track down
loves her monkey and binky
wears her hair in a pony tail on top of her head
loves wrestling with dad and Oli
LOVED

The Most Wonderful Time of the Year!

2011-12-28T19:42:00.001-08:00

The title says it all...

magical

My Boys

Skiing at Sundance Nordic Center on Christmas Eve

Riverwoods

Beauty

Christmas Morning

Stocking!

Live Nativity with the Olsens

Ski free after three

Buddies

picture update

2011-11-29T08:11:00.000-08:00

STEVIE JILL

2011-11-23T18:00:00.000-08:00

I can hardly believe that Stevie will be 9 months on the 27th. She is such a sweetie. She is a talker, and loves to say bye bye bye bye while doing the hand motions. She is cruising on everything and getting lots of bumps and bruises. I have to keep my eye on this little cookie, because she is into everything she shouldn't be. I have already found her in the bathroom unrolling the toilet paper... Can't wait til she is one!

Are You a Bumble Bee?

2011-11-02T08:17:00.001-07:00

Clarification: Brad was not a bumblebee for Halloween, he was Odlaw. We were the Waldo family. Oliver was Woof, Waldo's dog, I was Waldo, Stevie was Waldo Jr., and Brad was Waldo's evil cousin? Odlaw (Waldo backwards).
Oliver loves the Waldo books, and could look at them for hours. I love homemade costumes and thought Oli's Woof costume was adorable.
My sister, Jamie, was in town because her and my brother, Trevor, ran the Halloween half marathon. We started off the Halloween celebrations at my parents house on Saturday. The Kidos had a blast playing all of the Halloween games.
I have always loved Halloween, but in recent years, it has always been a let down, because my expectations are always so high. This year, Halloween exeeded my expectations. We went trick or treating with Oliver and his buddies. Oliver was the ring leader, of course, and was running from house to house asking for candy. It is so fun to re-live your life through your kids. How cool is trick or treating?

Fall Break

2011-11-02T08:03:00.000-07:00

We cruised down to California for Fall Break. It was our first time camping at a beach campsite. The camping wasn't ideal, but we were at the beach, so we can't complain. Oliver was in dream land. He loves sleeping in a tent, and he loves the ocean. Can't wait to get him surfing! Stevie loved the sand. She is growing up so fast, sheesh!

Besties

2011-10-05T07:51:00.000-07:00

Oliver, Stevie, and Ruthy love each other so much.

Chillin

2011-09-26T20:00:00.001-07:00

We have been loving the warm weather. Fall is in the air and we want to enjoy it while it lasts. I can't believe that winter is right around the corner. Am I ready for it to be dark at 5? kids inside all day long? buddling up to go outside? scraping the windshields? etc. etc. etc. Let's just say, I definitely need to prepare myself. I love winter. It just needs to be 3 months shorter.

FISHING

2011-09-26T19:50:00.001-07:00

Went fishing on Saturday. Oli was super stoked even though the only fish that was caught was a dead one that Jordy snatched in the eye socket...

California repeat

2011-09-26T19:20:00.000-07:00

LOVE THESE 2 SWEETIES

2011-09-04T07:50:00.000-07:00

California

2011-09-04T07:42:00.000-07:00

We went to California with the McQueen clan August 6-13. What a great trip. It's hard coming home after an awesome trip like that. Especially when you come home only to go back to work. We stayed in a house in Encinitas. Oliver had a blast with all of his cousins playing at the beach.

Oli is now potty trained. I have been trying all summer, but he wouldn't pee in the toilet. He found it fun peeing on the beach, and that's where it all started.

I am now back teaching, and still adjusting. I can't seem to get out of summer mode. Maybe I will be out of summer mode just to find myself in Christmas break mode. What would I do without breaks? Props to those who only get a few days every year for vacations. I would go nuts!

BEAT

2011-07-20T10:59:00.000-07:00

Camera was stolen so I haven't been able to post any rad pictures...

Buddies

2011-06-27T13:39:00.000-07:00

BUDDIES

DUATHALON

2011-06-27T13:16:00.000-07:00

There is a childrens race in our neighborhood called the Mountair Mile. Oliver raced and was so excited. Honestly, one of the cutest things I have ever seen. He road is bike a mile and then ran across the finish line about .2 miles. Oliver had quite the fan club! Grandma Sheree, Papa Jones, Mimi, Papa Rog, Derek, Jace, and Trevor all came to support him. Oliver felt really special!

Man...he melts me!

Derek

2011-06-27T13:02:00.001-07:00

DEREK IS HOME FROM THE PHILIPPINES! LOVE YA!!

Steamboat

2011-06-27T12:52:00.000-07:00

We visited Matt and the girls a few weeks ago. It was fun watching Mattison play and Matt coach. Mattison is a natural! Oliver misses them already.

UPDATE

2011-06-06T20:13:00.000-07:00

I started teaching again in May, so things have been busy. School is now out, and I am looking forwardto having 3 more months with Stevie and Oliver. Stevie is getting so big. We can't get enough of her smiles and every once in a while she surprises us with her little laugh. Yesterday, June 5, Stevie was blessed. It was great to be with family on Stevie's special day.

2 MONTHS

2011-05-03T08:02:00.000-07:00

2 MONTHS

WEIGHT: 11 LBS-----47%

HEIGHT: 22.25 INCHES-----39%

PERFECT

CaliforneyeA

2011-04-28T12:21:00.000-07:00

We spent Easters with Jordy and Si. It was so great spending time with them, playing cards, going to the beach, eating quiche and strawberry pie, getting bloody noses, watching little ninos eating flaming hots at the park... the list goes on and on. Pretty much we have a good time with them no matter what we do.

It blows my mind to think they have been living in California for 3 years. Sierra is a legit physicians assistant and Jordan is graduating in a matter of months. They have accomplished so much and we are so stoked for the both of them. We are psyched for them to move back to the SLC.

After Easter weekend, we went to La Jolla and stayed in a little studio apt. on the beach. It was our first family vacation 4 deep. We couldn't have asked for better weather. Oliver loved the beach, and Stevie loved sleeping in her stroller :)

GOOD TIMES!

Kids say the darndest things

2011-04-21T15:37:00.000-07:00

So Oli has been saying the cutest things, and I want to document them:

Me: Oli I love you. You are so special.

Oli: I'm not special, I am Oliver.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Oli: What's that sound mom?

Me: A dog barking

Oli: No mom, he is ruffing.

ZOO

2011-04-21T08:34:00.000-07:00

Oliver loves the zoo, but loves hanging with cousins more.

CURLY Q

2011-04-21T08:18:00.000-07:00

Stevie has super curly hair when it is wet. When her hair drys, it so fine and fluffy it straightens out. Nobody believes the curls until they see it. Curly or straight she is the cutest lil gal ever.

Keep Manhattan Just Give Me That Country-Side

2011-04-15T19:32:00.001-07:00

I love the Farm.

We had an Easter egg hunt,

played on the tractors,

threw rocks in the ditch,

and so much more.

It is so refreshing to get out of the city and have some space. It's good for the soul.

I am very close with my grandparents and think the world of them. I was so happy for them to see Stevie for the first time. They do so much for me and have played an important role in my life. Grandma and Grandpa Stayner, I know you will never read this, because you don't have a computer, but...

I LOVE YOU and will forever cherish my times in Malad spent on The Farm and am so happy I can now share these experiences with my kids! JAMIE... If only we lived closer! I love these three boys together!

SKI DAY

2011-04-08T07:18:00.000-07:00

We had a great time skiing with Fisher and Ashly at Solitude yesterday! The day was perfect. When we got home, Oli said, "Mom, I ski hard."

Thanks to my momma for watching Stevie!

ONE MONTH

2011-04-02T07:11:00.001-07:00

Stevie is one month old.

Dear Stevie...

I love your smell. Who knew sour milk could smell so good?

You are my spit up queen

I love your long toes and fingers

I love that when you hold your breath your stork bite on your forehead turns purple

I love your full head of hair

I love that you take a binky

I love that you take a bottle

I love that you do rapid fire just like your brother

I love your little grunts

I love your sweet spirit

I love that I am your MOM

You are perfect! I am so blessed!

Bradless

2011-03-31T09:58:00.000-07:00

Brad went on a yurt trip in the Sawtooths earlier this week.

Man, did he miss out on the funnest week ever...

I was at my parents house on Sunday with Stevie and Oli. Stevie had really green thick mucous. She was so stuffed up and not breathing the easiest. Well, because she is so young, I was extra careful so I took her to instacare. They said she had a viral infection, and that is should go away on its own.

Tuesday rolls along, and I think she is getting better. Her mucous isn't as green and she seems happier. Well, that evening, She starts vomiting. She wasn't keeping anything down and was very unhappy. While I am trying to comfort Stevie, Oli is being a holy terror. He refuses to go to bed, get's out of his crib (That is a first for him) and starts screaming at the top of his longs while banging on his bedroom door, "Tiff, I don't want to go to bed" Over and OVer and OVer again.

2 kids screaming + 1 infant vomiting

- Brad

= 1 stressed momma

Well, eventually I got Oli settled down and to bed. Stevie was still not doing well, and couldn't keep anything down...

The next day, Stevie is still not eating, or when she does it immediately comes up, and has diarrhea. So I take her to the Dr.

She was showing signs of being mildly dehydrated, but not severe enough to give her an IV. I took her home and was supposed to give her 1/2 oz of pedialite every hour, and slowly up the dosage if she was keeping it down. Well, her stomach tolerated the pedialite and eventually she started keeping down some milk. I am still only giving her a little bit of milk every hour, but her diapers are wet again...WAHOO!

sick infant= saddest thing ever

Brad, I am so happy you had a good time skiing...I love you... and sure did miss ya...

"Surf Boarding"

2011-03-27T13:36:00.000-07:00

Jordy. These video's are for you.

Hopefully you can tell what he says in the video.

"I want to go surfing in California with Jordy."

MARCH

2011-03-27T13:23:00.000-07:00

We are finishing our basement. Luckily we have this guy to help us.

On St. Patty's day we spent the day with Ashly, Fisher, and Rocko. Fisher and Oli painted surf boards that Brad had made them. Oli is "surf boarding" all over our house.

SPRING

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

So happy the weather is changing. It is amazing how we are all so much happier when we are not cooped up inside all day. I am longing for the summer days when Stevie, Oli, and I can chill outside all day.

one week

2011-03-06T07:56:00.000-08:00

Wow! I forgot what it was like to have a sweet, precious newborn in the home. Stevie is perfect, and she brings a sweet spirit into our home.

We are all doing great. Oli is adjusting. His world has been turned upside down, but each day is getting better.

Thanks to everyone who has been so supportive. We feel nothing but love from our family and friends!

Stevie Jill McQueen

2011-02-28T13:46:00.001-08:00

STEVIE JILL MCQUEEN

8lbs 5oz

2/27/2011

THE WAITING GAME...

2011-02-23T18:49:00.000-08:00

On Sunday, I started having contractions. They were frequent, about every 5 minutes, and getting stronger.

Off to the hospital we went.

We spent about 4 hours in the hospital and I was having contractions the entire time...but...I was only dilated to a 3.

I didn't want to be induced.

They told me I could go home for a couple hours or stay. We decided to go home.

I ran sprints and stairs hoping that would help things along.

Well, nothing happened and my contractions stopped completely.

Bummer.

So...4 days later I am still waiting for this peanut to come.

She already has a mind of her own.

Can my belly get any bigger?

HAPPY VALENTINES DAY

2011-02-13T14:25:00.001-08:00

I LOVE THE LITTLE PEANUT IN MY BELLY.

Can't wait to meet her!

I also LOVE... THESE TWO BOYS!

BRAD, OLI, and BABY SISI:

YOU ARE MY WORLD !

HAPPY VALENTINES DAY

Really???

2011-02-05T19:28:00.000-08:00

So, the pregnant comments never cease to amaze me. I have been receiving them frequently and decided I need to document them. So let the documentation begin...

1- You are so cut pregnant...you look miserable though. (How do I take this??)
2- (At the Dan's checkout stand and the cashier says) Attention we have a customer stealing a watermelon.
3- You are about to burst. (Thank you as if I didn't know)

Videos

2011-02-04T07:38:00.000-08:00

UPDATE

2011-02-04T06:34:00.000-08:00

We have been busy: We are remodeling the basement. With an older home this always becomes more work than expected. We are in it deep.
I think Oli would prefer the basement to be unfinished because he gets to skate and bike. Lately, he has been sleeping with his skateboard again. The first thing he said to me this morning was, "Skate mom. Helmet."

Over Presidents day, we took Oli skiing at Solitude. He loves it. When we finish a run, he says, "I ski fast!" He is a trooper. I don't know what he loves more, skiing, or getting french fries at the lodge.

Oli has started calling me "Tiff". When I ask him a question he looks at me and says, "Yeah Tiff" He is so funny!

I am due in 3 weeks and feeling ready to have this little munchkin out of my belly.

Family

2011-01-05T08:13:00.000-08:00

I love the holidays because we get to spend it with family and friends. We are so blessed to have so much love around us. We spent Christmas Eve and morning with my family in Orem. It was so fun to see how excited Oliver was when he saw the tree on Christmas morning. We got to talk to Derek on Christmas morning. he is serving a mission in the Philippines. He is doing great, and it was fun to hear his voice. He gets home in June WooHoo.
Christmas afternoon we spent at the McQueens. We were spoiled this year, because Matt and his girls from Colorado were here, as well as Jordan and Sierra. Love them all. We went sledding and skiing in their yard which was a blast.
We were able to ski at Solitude over the break. It is harder to get up there, because Brad still can't ski, and I am super prego. Brad was able to take Oli on a couple runs. Oli kept sayin, "I ski fast." The snow was fantastic and I was happy to get in a least one ski day before the babe comes.
I have about 6 more weeks until our baby girlie arrives!

ALOHA

2010-11-28T15:40:00.001-08:00

Thanksgiving was a dream this year.

We spent it in Hawaii with the McQueens. We are so lucky to have the opportunity to vacation the way we do.

I can't believe Oli has already been to Hawaii.

HE LOVED IT!

It was so fun watching him play in the ocean. He loved to watch the surfers and now has a new obsession. First skate board, then bike, now surf...I can't complain.

Brad was a trooper. He just had knee surgery so he couldn't do much. He never complained. He is the best dad. He is so helpful and spends so much time with Oliver. Oli has so much fun with Brad. Oli and Brad caught a wave together. I think Brad was more stoked than Oli!

Thanks Roger and Jill for the amazing time. We are so grateful for all you do! We love Hawaii and I can't wait for the day when I can go back not PREGO.

Halloween

2010-11-07T13:53:00.001-08:00

Guess Who??

2 years!!!

2010-11-07T13:47:00.001-08:00

Wow! Time goes by so, so fast. I can't believe it was 2 years ago this little guy was in our arms... NOW HE IS CRUISIN!

LOVE, LOVE, LOVE HIM!

California

2010-11-07T13:28:00.001-08:00

Tyler, Brad, Oli, and I went to California over our Fall Break. It was so fun spending time with Jordan and Sierra. We miss them so much, and will be so excited when they live closer! Until then,, we love visiting.
For those of you who know me well, I fall asleep very very easily. But, I must say that I am a car driving champion! The last two California trips we have taken, we leave at 8:00 p.m. and drive through the night. There is no better way to travel with a kido. Oli slept the entire drive.

Rampage

2010-10-05T14:06:00.000-07:00

The Red Bull Rampage was yet another epic weekend. The event was awesome, the people we were with... even awesomer. We love spending time with family and friends doing activity. Jabs and Sis met us from California, which is always a treat.

I was able to get one last bike ride in before my belly gets too big. Yes, that's right, I am pregnant-- due the end of February..yeehaw! Anyways, on the ride Brad and his bike had a little encounter. The bike won, and took a chunk below his calf. It was deep and he needed stitches. Jordan and Sierra performed the operation on a patch of grass at the grocery store parking lot in La Verkin. Sierra is a P.A. and Jordan is in training.

Brad is a tough dude, and had 4 stitches in his leg with NO pain medicine.

morning routine

2010-09-30T08:20:00.000-07:00

When Oliver wakes up in the morning, he goes to the computer and says, "bike".

self protraits

2010-09-30T08:08:00.000-07:00

These pictures speak for themselves. Self Portraits-need I say more.

BIKE

2010-09-30T07:48:00.000-07:00

We got Oliver an early birthday present-his bike. He loves it even though he is a bit too short to ride it. Oli has also been having so much fun building bike jumps with his dad up at his parents house. There are days where Oli won't take off his helmet. He wears his helmet in the car, at the store, and anywhere else. When he first got it, it was a battle taking it off for naps. Gotta love the kid!

bound bound bound and rebound

2010-09-24T17:48:00.000-07:00

Oliver loves jumping. He jumps whenever he can. It reminds me of the Pixar short "bound, bound, bound, and rebound"

The happenings

2010-09-08T17:03:00.000-07:00

Well, I am back at work, and we are all back to our regular schedules. I love having a summer off, but always feel good getting back into the swing of things. I really enjoy working, and am happy to be back at school.
We went to Moab over Labor Day. Speaking of Labor Day can someone tell me why we celebrate it and why we put flags out on this day? Anyway, it was fun to get away for the weekend. Oliver was in heaven.
Oli could have played in the dirt and thrown rocks all day long.

Oliver loved sleeping in the back of the truck.

It was nice to escape the heat up in the La Sals. Check out Oli's cheeser.

Did you know that Moab now has a carousel in the park? Psych! This is at Lagoon a few weeks earlier. Oliver loves horses. One of his favorite movies is Spirit.

Family

2010-08-15T13:54:00.000-07:00

I can't believe summer is coming to an end! I go back to work this Monday. It has been so fun spending every minute with Oli. Oh man. I love him so much. So, last week, I had the realization that I was actually going back to work soon. Oli and I tried cramming in every fun activity that we hadn't yet done this summer. It has been especially fun, because Oli's cousins have been in town. Here is a glimpse of what we have been doing.
We chilled at Willard Bay. Oli love the sand, boats, and water.

We went to the Museum of Ancient Life at Thanksgiving Point. Cool? very. Cool on 2 dollar Tuesday? Not so much. It was so crazy busy. That's what I get for being a cheap mom in Utah.

My muddy babe at Willard Bay.

I can't get enough of his smile!

Riding the little John Deer riding mower with Grandpa Stayner. He wasn't really sure what to think of it.

We also went to the Living Water Acquarium which was Oliver's favorite. He is continually saying "Shark" "Turtle" "Fishy" and "Nemo". I think the sharks were his favorite.

My Little Skater

2010-07-19T11:59:00.000-07:00

Oliver loves his skate.

Our friends, Justin and Steph Olsen, have a mini ramp in there backyard. Oliver saw a skate laying around in their backyard and headed straight to the mini ramp. He just chilled on the ramp the rest of the day. Well, after that, we bought him his own skate. He loves it, and I love the entertainment.

Happy Fathers Day

2010-06-17T08:49:00.001-07:00

Happy Fathers Day Brad! You are the greatest husband and dad. Oli is so lucky to have such a fun, loving dada.

We LOVE you!

VIRGIN

2010-05-31T21:14:00.001-07:00

We rode bikes in Virgin this weekend. It is always nice to get away for Memorial day and hang with your family and friends. Tyler and Madi have a sweet van that we all cruised. It was a good time.

SALTY

2010-05-24T09:58:00.000-07:00

We went on a Westwater trip this weekend. It is such a fun day trip, and definitely got us itching to do a multi-day trip. It was sunny, beautiful, and windy. Did I mention windy? Sometimes, our boat was going upstream. The scenery is so gorgeous. We live in an amazing place! A big shout out to Andrew Taylor for inviting us on this trip...good times.

Oli spent the weekend at my parents house and had a blast. I am so thankful for a little boy who is easy going and happy.

First Turns

2010-05-02T12:43:00.000-07:00

We took Oliver skiing during the last week Solitude was open. We had a hook up on some mini (89)cm skis and boots. He seemed into it when he tried them on at home, so we figured at 18 months old, it is never too early or too late to get into it. It was a perfect spring day and cool to be have it be his first experience at the mountain. With a DIN set at .5 he lost a ski on the first lift ride, but we made a quick recovery, and he was such a good sport about it. We only made it through one lap on Moonbeam, but then threw on the pack and he cruised some hot laps off Eagle Express with us, for the rest of our day. In the pack he loved going fast, and would make car noises as we got going, and would laugh when he saw his Momma in front of us. It is fun to ski as a family, and we are really excited for many more seasons together as he really starts to shred and eventually has some little brothers or sisters he can teach. This little guys is so cool and we love him so much!

Spring Break

2010-04-05T13:52:00.000-07:00

Last week, I had Spring break. I had no plans, and just thought Oli and I would chill and do whatever. Well, no plans turned into plans super quick.

Oli and I went to Malad Idaho and visited my grandparents.

Madi, my sister in law, is student teaching so we had the same Spring break. The day I got back from Malad we were talking about how it was weird neither of us had plans for the break. Well, we decided to go to California to visit Jordan and Sierra. It was so much fun. Oli loved the beach. He is the sweetest little guy ever. I can't believe how well he adapts. I just love him so much.

Being in California made me realize I could definitely live near the beach and chill all day! I love it. It also made me want a sweet rode trip van even more. Hopefully soon!

update

2010-03-21T13:10:00.000-07:00

Oli is growing up.

He loves to play with balls and cars, which are two words in his small vocabulary that he says over and over again.

We are loving the weather. When Oli wakes up, he goes directly to the door because he wants to play outside.

This month Oli got a new cousin! Rocky Blue McQueen is the newest addition to the McQueen clan. We are so excited to have another cruiser in the family.

Mantle

2010-02-14T10:47:00.000-08:00

Oliver with a mean crib mantle move to head first pillow drop line. Good work little bugga.

Best Bran Muffins

2010-02-07T10:07:00.000-08:00

A few people have asked for this recipe, so I thought I would share it with everyone. I love these bran muffins and cant get enough of them.

1 1/2 c. flour
3/4 c. flax
3/4 c. wheat or oat bran
1 c. brown sugar
2 t. baking soda
1 t. baking powder
1 t. salt
2 t. cinnamon
3/4 c. skim milk
2 eggs beaten
1 t. vanilla
2 T. oil
2 c. shredded carrots
2 apples pealed and shredded
1/2 c. craisins
1/4 c. raisins
1 c. chopped nuts (optional)

Preheat oven 350*
Mix flour, flax, bran,brown sugar, soda, powder, salt, and cinnamon. Add the milk, eggs, vanilla, and oil. Mux until blended. Stir in carrots, apples, craisins, raisins, and nuts.
bake at 350* for 15-20 minutes

Enjoy! Let me know if you like them.

Idaho

2010-02-02T08:25:00.000-08:00

Oli, my brother Trevor, and I went to visit my grandparents in Malad and my sisy in Idaho Falls. It was a great time. We went "sleigh riding" on the farm with my grandparents, which is always a treat. We also got to see Jamie and John and their cutest little fam. Calvin, the newest addition to their fam, is the cutest chunker ever! He is such a good baby and was super fun to spend some time with him. Jack, Oli's other cousin, is always a joy and keeps you on your toes. We only wish they lived closer!
We love Idaho, but especially love the people who are there and the good memories we make. Thanks for the good times!

rad

2010-01-24T10:46:00.000-08:00

Brad has been gone a ton lately and Oli and I haven't seen him much. Having him gone so much really made me realize how much he does, and how much Oli and I need him. Oli adores him and follows him everywhere. You can already tell that Oli admires his dad so much. Brad has two cool jobs- Oli loves to go to the airport to visit dad at work, and I know he will love to visit dads other job on the ski hill. I am so grateful for Brad. Oli has a pretty RAD dad, which makes me have a pretty RAD husband. So here is to rad dads!!!

trying to escape

2010-01-17T15:02:00.000-08:00

The air quality in Salt Lake is such a bummer. It has been terrible for way too long. We are trying to escape it as much as possible. Oli and I went on a hike today. It was so beautiful! The sun was shining and the air was clear. We are hoping for some good storms to clear out the crap so we can breath and ski. Seriously... where are you snow????

Oli is climbing on anything and everything.

Happy New Year!!!

winter wonderland

2010-01-01T16:37:00.000-08:00

We have enjoyed the month of December. We love spending time with family and friends. Christmas was amazing. Oliver loved opening the presents and playing with the boxes. Brad is now working part time at Solitude on ski patrol. He works Saturdays and we couldn't be more happy about it. We both get ski passes, and he is doing something he loves. We are so blessed!

Oliver playing in the snow.

Brad is a little anxious for the little one to go touring.

sledding in Brads super old kayak. It is the best ride ever!

Christmas morning at my parents house. Thanks to Brent and Sheree and Rog and Jill for the enjoyable Christmas memories.

Craziness

2009-12-09T18:10:00.001-08:00

Christmas time is always a super busy time of year. I have been crazy busy making hats. I love making them, but sometimes wonder what I get myself into each year. I am sure Oli is going to have many memories of playing with yarn while mom is crocheting on the couch.

Oliver is busy and into everything. I love watching him explore. Today, I found Oliver wearing Brad's shoes. I ran to get me camera, but of course, the "kodak moment"was over. Oliver blows my mind each and every day. I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE him!

Family

2009-11-15T20:26:00.000-08:00

Oliver is so cruise. It is so fun to do so many fun things together as a family. Pretty standard scene here as we roll home for the night. Jordan, it is pretty cool that he is wearing the same sweater you were rocking over 20 years ago. The bugga looks pretty big next to his new nephew Calvin John Avondet. Welcome to the family buddy.

Healthy and beautiful little baby boy.

Jamie's perfect little guy, waking up to say hello.

Bedtime stories. We love this little guy so much, and are so grateful for the family we have.

Trick or Treat??

2009-11-09T16:12:00.000-08:00

Halloween was great. Love that holiday. The only problem was...Where did all the trick or treaters go? We have lived in our house for two Halloweens and have probably had 10 trick or treaters total :(. What happened to the days where kids where running around everywhere getting there candy candy candy candy (Garfields Halloween).

Gym Shmim

2009-10-21T17:21:00.000-07:00

Since I've had Oli, I haven't gone to the gym. I am able to get my cardio in for the week by running outside or on my treadmill. However, I have been seriously lacking in the weight lifting department. Lately, I have been walking to the grocery store. On the way home I push the stroller with one arm and do curls with the grocery bags with the other arm. Yes, I get some crazy looks from the cars passing by, but I guess I do what I can. So, until I am working out in a gym again I will continue lifting with my grocery bags and soup cans. Who knows, maybe I can write a book about it someday and make millions.

My dumbell (above)and lifting partner (below). Who could ask for anything more?

ONE

2009-10-21T17:05:00.000-07:00

Wow. I cannot believe Oli is one! How fast does time go? Oliver is the sweetest, brightest, happiest little boy. His big blue eyes brighten my day. So happy he is ours.
His birthday party was great. It is so fun to be with family.

Madi and Tyler got him some super cook kicks. Oli will be a stylin' dude with his new vans.

Oli was not into his cake. He didn't like the frosting on his fingers. He didn't eat much of the cake. When we gave him a spoon and wiped his frosting hands he like it a little better, but still not so much.

My sister Jamie made him this little apron. He really likes it. Maybe it's a sign that he is going to be a great cleaner/helper when he is older :).

Walking

2009-10-12T07:03:00.000-07:00

Oliver has been walking for about 2 weeks or so. He is getting faster and faster everyday and soon will be running all over the place. Oh, how cute is he??? I can't believe he will be one in a week!

Juice Newton

2009-10-12T06:47:00.000-07:00

My brother Jace, also known as Juice Newton, runs cross country for Orem High. He did awesome at region. He took 2nd on his team and 7th overall. I can't imagine running 3.2 miles in 16:00 flat. Great job Jace. Can't wait to see you run at State.

good times

2009-10-05T06:40:00.000-07:00

We went to California to visit Jordan and Sierra. Jordan and Sierra are so fun to be around. We love them so much and are so happy Jordan got into PA school at Loma Linda. Jabs and Si are going to make the best PA's.

It was sunny and beautiful the entire time we were there. The beaches were beautiful and we were able to get out and surf a bit.

So, I am known to be forgetful, and yes, I forgot Oli's bag. We didn't have diapers, clothes, the whole works. We bought Oli two outfits which he wore the entire time.

Oli is a natural. Can't wait to get him on a board! He loved playing on the surf boards, especially the trusty wavestorm.

On our way to California we pulled over to sleep in Primm. Oliver and teddy slept with me in the sleeping bag under the stars. Wow! This trip we realized even more how much we love Oli and how easy he really is.

The day before we went to Cali, we went on a hike up Freeze Creek to look at the beautiful leaves. Oli is spotting his next hold ready to make his move.

Teacher/mom

2009-09-27T20:45:00.000-07:00

So, for those of you who don't know, I am teaching again. I wasn't planning on teaching this year, until I got the phone call. Hass, my teaching partner, called me a few days before school started and asked if I would like to teach with her again. My first reaction was, "not really." But when I got thinking about it, I thought it was something I really should consider. Well, a month and a half later here I am teaching and being mom. I couldn't be happier doing two things I LOVE.

Haas and I are connected at the hip. Every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, I watch her two girls in the morning while she is teaching our class. Then, I bring them to school with me, and we do a trade off in the parking lot. She takes them home to her house and I teach the afternoon. It is a bit hectic at times, but it works.

I am super grateful to be teaching, for my wonderful Momma Jones, and Jill for watching Oli on Tuesdays and Thursdays, a husband who is so supportive, my teaching partner Haas, and especially my loveable munchkin Oliver. I think I am the luckiest mom alive. He brings so much joy into my life every day. I AM SO BLESSED.

This is Lucy (almost 4) and Ruthy (6 months) who I watch Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. Of course, they are modeling my hats.

On Fridays, I also watch Jade who is in kindergarten. It is fun to watch Oliver have little buddies to play with. He follows Lucy around everywhere. How cute are they????

COUSINS

2009-09-14T07:54:00.001-07:00

My sister Jamie and her boy Jack came to visit us. It is so much fun to have them around. I wish they lived closer. We took Oli and Jack to the airport where Brad took them in an airplane. They bothed loved it. We also went to the Discovery Gateway children's museum. That place is so cool. Jack was all about the balls exhibit and thr cars (typical boy).

I'm going to Jackson

2009-09-04T12:19:00.000-07:00

We went to Jackson Lake last weekend with the McQueen's. Everytime I go to Jackson, I am amazed at the beauty. The Tetons are unreal. We had a blast water skiing and hanging out with family. My leg is finally healing and I was able to ski -Wahoo! While we were in Jackson I couldn't help but feel so blessed. It doesn't get better than being in an amazing place with people you love.

SO BIG

2009-08-11T08:10:00.000-07:00

Oliver will be 10 months old on the 19th of Auwe3gust. I can't believe how fast he is growing up. Oliver loves the pool. He could spend all day in the water. He has learned how to stand up on his own. Before I know it, he will be walking. Oliver is also at the age where he loves to play games. He loves to stand in his crib with his teddy and throw his teddy out of the crib. We throw it back in the crib, and he will immediately get teddy and huck it out of the crib. We are loving every minute of him. He keeps us busy, because he doesn't sit still for a minute. I wonder where he gets that from?

Oh Canada

2009-08-09T11:48:00.001-07:00

Whistler was amazing. Wow! I never knew biking could be so fun. We went in Justin and Steph's van with Madi and Tyler, Olsen and Steph, Jt, and Urban. It was such a fun crew. The drive was long, but well worth it.
I was away from Oliver for 6 days. First time I have ever left him. I missed everything about the little bugga. While we were gone, Oli didn't skip a beat. He was having so much fun with his grandma's. Thank you to grammy Sheree and Mimi for being so willing to watch Oli. He loves you guys.
Anyways, we didn't take many pictures on the trip because we were riding so much we never stopped to take the camera out.
This is what the parking lot at Whistler looked like in the morning. Bikes everywhere. We definitely know how to set up a mad chill wherever we go.

THE VAN! This trip was just another reminder of how much Brad and I want a sweet road trippin' van.

We barabequed our dinner in the parking lot of the gas station. White Trash? Never.

After a day of riding it was always refreshing to go jump in the river.

Crashed hard at Whistler. This was what my leg looked like 2 days after the crash.

summer lovin'

2009-07-09T21:57:00.001-07:00

Gotta love summer. We are enjoying the long summer nights, the bbq's, swimming, vacations, family, and everything in between. I have been working hard on our house trying to give it a new look. I will post pictures when I am finished with the project.

Cute Cousins! Miss you Rivy.

Chillin at Newport beach

Eating with Derek the night before he left on his mission. I would not recommend going to Los Hermanos. I remember the food being good, well, we went there and it was not. So if you are craving and Mexican in Utah County don't go there.

First day at the beach. Oli loved the sand and the water. The water was cold, but Oli didn't seem to mind. It's crazy how you totally want to live your dreams through your kids. When we were at the ocean I kept on thinking how cool it will be when Oli can surf. Of course I picture him to be a total ripper on a surf board. I think it's because that is something I wish I could do. Anyways, he is only 8 months old and I am already dreaming of Oli being a ripper skier, biker, skater, surfer, and so on.

We LOVE it when Jack comes to visit! He loves Oliver and can't keep his hands off of him. I love it!

SPRING

2009-05-24T19:19:00.000-07:00

We have been enjoying the warm weather. Oli has started crawling. He does the army crawl version, but he gets to where he wants to go. I am done teaching in 2 weeks...Yahoo, I am so excited for summer to begin. Brad got a new job at Westminster as the Assistant Chief. He will do such a great job. We are loving our little family and can't believe how fast Oliver is growing up. Speaking of growing up, Oli's hair is also growing up. His hair is sticking straight up. It is hillarious. I don't know why everything is underlined, but it is.

I wish he would eat his food as well as he eats dirt.

My babes. Love them both so much!

Oli and I chilling at the skills park in Park City.

I hit my first drop this weekend. I don't know who is more excited me or Brad.

Classic Oli pose.

Brad getting sickter on the Riverdale wave. Brad just informed me that this is a "back stab". If you want to know any other Kayak moves Brad will gladly show you with his phone.

Oli is ready to rock. We can't wait for him to go on weekend Payette trips with his dad and awesome uncles.

Olivideo

2009-04-22T10:40:00.000-07:00

growing up

2009-04-21T22:38:00.000-07:00

Oliver is getting so big. He is 6 months old. The time has gone by so fast! I have the best videos of him in the bath and in his johnny jump up, but I don't know how to upload video.

Anyways these are some of the things he is doing at 6 months.

He is sitting up all by himself!

Playing disc golf.

Running.

Loving every minute of bath time.
How cute is that smile?

These 6 months have been the best 6 months. We can't wait for the many adventures that lie ahead.

I hope they call me on a mission...

2009-04-03T08:15:00.000-07:00

Derek received his mission call yesterday. He is going to...

The Philippine Angeles mission!

Congratulations Derek. We love you!

Simple

2009-04-01T11:43:00.000-07:00

Just some simple things that we have been enjoying.

First, this little bugga and the non stop movement he brings. Now he is all over and cruising more everyday.

Having good friends to hang with.

Having our little crew together.

This kid's face being so bright.

His first tastes. Destroying a clementine.

Healthy, strong and chubby.

Loving someone so much that even when he pukes all over your face, it still makes you laugh. Tiff was laughing harder than me. At least he missed.

Much love to you all.

How tos

2009-03-02T15:07:00.000-08:00

Who doesn't want to know how to fix their gasket or dial in their suspension at some point. Ok not everyone, but I know one of you will be watching this sometime to save a few bucks. Jordan too bad Sid never watched the drytop video.

http://www.vimeo.com/3179789 - replace a drytop neck gasket

http://www.pinkbike.com/video/58468 - tune mtb suspension

http://www.parktool.com/repair/byregion.asp - good bike repair site

Oliver growing up

2009-02-21T22:26:00.000-08:00

Here are just a few pictures of the little man as he is growing up. Four months now, over 15 lbs, and pretty darn cute.

Buddies

Chub a dub

First turns

2009-02-21T21:54:00.000-08:00

I found myself a new touring partner today. He wasn't much of a talker and everytime I tried to stop for photos, he started wailing. Other than that he was asleep most of the time, but for four months old, not bad for your first turns. We got out to seek a line in emigration canyon. Got just over 1000 feet of vertical in and it was a beautiful and fun day to be together with my bugga.

We just topped out and this is how he was the whole time up. Chilling asleep.
He did not like it when I stopped to take him out for a photo

Good looking turns for a little guy. Ours are the ones on the left, probably going a little too fast.

Chillin on the tail gate afterwards with a bottle in the lap

I am excited for a lifetime full of good days together, until he thinks I am too old to hang.

LOVE YOU MOM

2009-01-30T14:28:00.000-08:00

My Momma was in a bad car accident this week. She was turning left on a green arrow when a car ran a red light and smacked right into her. She fractured her pelvis and broke her hand. I am so grateful that she is okay. So many things could have gone wrong. A fractured pelvis is pretty bad, but when you look at what could have gone wrong she is lucky. I love my mom so much. She is an amazing women. I am sure she will have a quick recovery because of her determination, will power, and good attitude. My mom is so loving. When people ask how she is doing, she says, "I am just grateful it didn't happen to one of my kids."
Thanks for being an example to me Momma! I love you so so much, and can only hope I can be a mom like you!!

want to ride bikes?

2009-01-23T11:24:00.000-08:00

Just getting tired of the high pressure we have had for the past two weeks. Got me thinking about riding bikes. Here are a few randoms from the past. Starting to rain today, mountain snow, so hopefully winter continues......

THE FARM

2009-01-21T10:25:00.000-08:00

Last Thursday my mom and I met my sister, Jamie, and her little boy, Jack, in Malad where my grandparents live. It is always a treat to go visit the farm. We went sledding, ate my grandma's famous raisen toast, and enjoyed the company of my sweet grandparents. I can't wait for next year when Oli can go "sleigh riding" with my Gramps and his cousin Jack.

NINETY-EIGHT

2009-01-01T16:26:00.000-08:00

Grandma Ardes just turned 98! She is amazing and we love her!

Her two latest great grandchildren- Oliver and Scarlet.

pics at Grandma's birthday party

Happy New Year

2009-01-01T15:50:00.000-08:00

Well, I haven't been so good at updating the blog, but it seems the new year has given me more motivation.
I think pictures are the best part about blogs. So here are abunch of randoms over the holidays.

Oli ready to rock!

BATH TIME!

Christmas morning

Oli's first bike ride with Dad.

Oliver James

2008-10-24T10:04:00.000-07:00

Oli has finall arrived! He was born Sunday, October 19th. 6 lbs 11 oz.

He is perfect. We are so stoked he is healthy and strong.

He is so CUTE! I never knew I could be so content staring at someone for so long.

teacher

2008-02-07T16:11:00.000-08:00

I am not going to school today. I am going to shred some pow with my good friend layners.

WAHOO