Being Thankful

So its early in the morning the day after Thanksgiving and I realized that I have not written what I'm most thankful for this year.

• For starters I'm thankful for a husband that has taken any job he could get just so that we had enough to get by when things were hard. And is willing to put aside dreams (ones that we have together for the moment) to do what is needed to get us out on our own. For being a fantastic father to our little boy. And he is going to make a wonderful solider. Who supports me and comforts me and loves me for eternity.
• For a little boy who is so very sweet. For always showing me the wonder in the world that Heavenly Father has given us. All the kisses our boys freely gives. His chubby helping hands. And for how those same hands fit so well in mine when we walk down the street. The smile that is always on his face. How he asks for a book to be read over and over. And how he folds his arms for prayers and when we ask him who should say the prayer he points to who he wants to say it. The way his big blue eyes light up when his daddy comes home. Running down the hall every Sunday so he can go to Nursery. I really love our boy...can you tell.
• For extended family who have helped and supported us during the last little bit. And more importantly love us no matter what.
• For a Heavenly Father that always listens to our prayers. And who more importantly loves us more than we will ever really know.
• For a Savior that gave his life so that we may return to Heavenly Father's home.
• For the blessings of the temple. Being sealed in the house of the Lord was the happiest days of my life and knowing that my family is going to be together for all eternity is more importantly something that brings me great joy and peace. And the fact that I can go back whenever I want is such a blessing and comfort to me.
• For the gospel of Jesus Christ. I'm so blessed that I'm a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints.
• Friends that I can call anytime day or night when I want to talk to them (no matter how far away they are).

What are you thankful for this year?

Brian was sworn into the Army

So on Friday the 29th of October, Marlene and I went down town to meet up with Darrell to see Brian get sworn into the U.S. Army. It was an all day event. We brought Iain with us. My poor baby didn't get a nap and didn't really get a lunch. He was a good boy the entire time and charmed everyone there. Well at 3pm Brian's dad was able to be sworn into the Army by his dad. It was surreal that all the paper work, sweat, and blood finally paid off. And the 2years of living with his parents is coming to an end. Brian leaves for basic in January and will be gone for 10 to 11 weeks and than he goes to his IT training for 9weeks. I'm going to miss having him around all the time. So wish him (us) luck and keep us in your prayers.

Stats for Iain...

My baby weighs 35lbs. He is 33 1/2 inches long. And almost all of his 1st molars are in. I can't believe how much he has grown over the last 18months. He is my super strong little man. And such a blessing to us. (Side note: Iain goes in for his 18month well baby check up on Thursday. We weighted him and measured him the other day. So who knows what the doctor well say on Thursday).

Iain's first day in Nursery...

So Brian and I dropped Iain off at nursery this past Sunday. I asked him for a kiss because mommy was going to class and he was staying with his friends. The little stinker was having so much fun playing that he didn't want to give me a kiss. So I kissed him and he gave me this look of mommy you can so go now. So I went to class and Relief Society. Well during Relief Society I started to hear Iain cry (but I dismissed it as it couldn't be him if it was him one of the nursery leaders would have brought him to me) after a few more minutes of hearing this crying it dawned on me that it was him. So I quickly got up and left the room to go and check on him. While when I go out side I ran into on of the nursery leaders holding my baby (who was at this point screaming). And she said that he had been playing and than tripped over his own two feet. The right side of his face was bright red (he has a little carpet burn over his eye brow now it just looked a lot worst than it really is). I asked if she knew where his paci was. So we walked into the nursery room to look for it (well it was still in his diaper bag (which was also in there). The minute he saw his paci he wanted it. Iain stopped crying and just laid his head in my should. And started to clam down. I was very impressed with my baby for staying in nursery for almost the entire time (the last 15 minutes he was crying and than with me). So I hope next Sunday he does just as well or better. I think he likes being in there.

Friday is the day....

So this Thursday Brian goes to M.E.P.S and than Friday afternoon he gets sworn into the U.S Army. Brian's dad is swearing him into the Army (how special is that). I'm so glad that things are finally headed in this direction and that we moving passed this point in our lives. I'm so proud of my husband and am so glad that we are together. I love you sweetheart.

Why can't people grow up...

Apparently people think its ok to tell you how to spend your money, time, and whether or not to have another baby. We pay our bills with out having to barrow any money from anyone. If we want to go on a date its between us and not them. If we are trying for another child that is between us and Heavenly Father. Butt out people. (This has been sitting in my edit posts box for months).

We are both ready to see if we can do this whole parenting thing with out any help from his family. The whole time that Iain has been apart of our family we have lived with his parents and they have helped with the day to day stuff or just giving me time to shower/eat/or get ready for the day or just taken him because I would need to get away from him for a minute. Iain has never been able to entertain himself while mommy cooked dinner because someone is always willing to keep him occupied and happy. So when we finally get Brian's orders and are stationed out of state it will be adjustment for all of us. I won't have all the adult conversation that I do now. I'll have to figure out how to shower and get ready for the day before Iain wake up or do it while he is awake just in a shorter amount of time. So once we aren't living here anymore I'm sure I'm going to go a little bit crazy from all the adjustments that all of us are going to have to make. I don't know if I'm up for the challenge but I'm sure going to give it my all. I'll just have to open up to people in whatever ward we live in and get to know the other Army wives to have some type of support system. And brag my best friends to come out to visit me when I need a pick me up. (Who knows I actually might use all 700minutes on our cell phone plan). This should be quite the adventure for all of us.

First Step done...

So Brian completed the first of many things to come to get ready for the Army. He now qualifies to go to M.E.P.S. (neither of us knows what it means) but its where he gets to go see the Army medical personal and get his medical workup and get sworn into the Army. And as long as I finish the paper work for his National Security Clearance before next Friday Brian will be going. Brian's dad is swearing him into the Army. The only down side is the next basic doesn't start till late March early April of 2011, at least he'll be here for the holidays. And we wouldn't get Brian's orders till at the earliest September or at the least November of 2011, so that means Iain and I will be staying in Colorado till than (so at the most another year of living with my in-laws but I think I'm up for the challenge). We are really excited that things are working out for us. And can't wait to start down this new path on our journey together.

Molars for Iain

So a few days ago Julie was playing with Iain (she had him upside down) and had a clear view into his mouth and she saw that one of his molars was in (on the top right side) and that the other 3 were starting to come in. My poor poor baby. I mean I brush his teeth every day and I guess I just never realized that he was getting them (I use a finger brush and I get the job done and get my finger out of there before he bits me).

Thanksgiving In VA...

So there is a huge possibility that the 3 of us are going to my parents for Thanksgiving. (I kinda wish it was for Christmas but the are going to be in NY with my older sister's husbands family. So there is always next year). So if you want to see us you should let either Brian or I know. I can't wait to spend time with my family. They are going to be amazed at how much Iain has changed. And I can't wait to meet my new nephew Evan. I plan on taking Iain to the National Zoo and the Natural History Museum (and maybe a few other places). Can't wait to show him all that and so much more.

Free Day at the Denver Zoo

On the 13th Leslie,Chris, Marlene and I took the Iain and Gabe to the Zoo. First of all we didn't get out of the house till after 11am when we wanted to be out of the house by 9:30. And if you have never been to free day at the Denver Zoo its a mad house trying to find parking. And the zoo is so packed that you won't be able to see all the animals when you are there. (So go prepared by making a list of the animals that you want to see and plan to see only those animals there will be another trip to see the rest. And lets face it going to the zoo with 2 18month olds is hard). So we finally parked and made our way into the zoo. We were only there for 4hours and got to see the felines, reptiles, wolves, and few other animals before we left. While at the zoo Shiree and Kevin meet up with us. On our way home both boys feel a sleep. Iain and I went to bed early that night. Leslie took some pictures and when I get them I'll post the cutest ones on here. Brian and I plan on going to the next free day on October 21st (anyone want to join us?).

We hiked...

So for our anniversary we went on a hike. We drove to Boulder (while past it about half way to Estes Park) and stopped at Lions Gulch. And we walked along a quaint trail for about an hour. We walked a little over 2miles (I know its not a lot and yes it was round trip. But I'm terrible out of shape since having Iain). We talked and just had a great time being together. We stopped at Subway and got a sub to split (I can't every eat a whole one by myself). We made a wrong turn on our way home from Lions Gulch and ended up in Longmont at a cute pumpkin patch/country store (we are going to take Iain there this week-end to pick a pumpkin and go through the hay maze. We went up to Flat Irons Crossing to walk around the mall for a bit. When we finally got home Brian made us buffalo burgers for dinner with smoked gouda and grilled pineapple. Oh my goodness so good. And we cuddled on the love sack to watch Iron Man 2. It was a great day and I'm so glad that his parents said that they would watch Iain so we could have this day to be together. I wonder what Brian has up his sleeve for next year.

My baby talks...

So sometimes when I don't expect it Iain says something. The other day while I was cooking dinner Iain was helping his Aunt Leslie clean up his cousins mess from his dinner. After it was all cleaned up Leslie said that it was all clean and she got up from the floor. While Iain shrugs his shoulders (his hands up held to the side of his body palms toward the ceiling) and says "All done" in a sweet voice. Leslie turns to me and asks if that was Iain who said that. I told her it wasn't Gabe (Gabe is louder than Iain in pretty much every way). Gabe is also alot more vocal than Iain. Iain has just started .to use his voice to talk but most of the time he doesn't say anything (just really quite). So it amazes everyone when he says anything. A few people are worried that he isn't talking. But Brian and I know that Iain will talk when he is ready right now he is quite happy pointing at things till he gets it. Or grabbing someones hand and taking them to the object that he wants that he can't get. Or just plain going and getting it himself. I'm sure that he'll talk when he has something to say. But for the moment this has worked for him.

To Brian on our 3rd Anniversary

Sweet heart, the best three years have had their up and downs. We have survived losing jobs and babies. We are stronger knowing that we have each other and can count on one an other and the Lord. We have had days, weeks, and months of not knowing what was going to happen down the road. Wondering if there was going to be a bend in the road or a light beyond the tunnel. We had our first child, who just adores his daddy (and I know you're Iain's hero and that he looks up to you). You are the best example of what I was looking for in a man to be the father of my children. I know that we have had of arguments about silly and non important things but at the end of the day I know that you'll always be there no matter what. I know I'm stubborn and not always rational (and at times act the a child because I don't get my way) but I hope you know that I'm trying to grow out of it and I'm trying to be more like the wife that you need me to be. And I'm hoping that I'll be that woman (way before our 10 year anniversary, here's to hoping anyways). I'm looking forward to eternity with you and only you. I'm thankful that you were able to take me to the temple and that we are an eternal family. I love you more than I can say. You are most diffidently my better half. And the brains of the whole operation. I'm looking forward to our next year together. To the up and yes even the downs. I'll take the good and the bad as long as you're by my side to get us through it.

Their Here...

So Leslie and Chris have moved in. Iain and Gabe are having so much fun together. We've only had a few problems with them not wanted to share toys. And only one episode of complete and utter break down. But I don't know what will happen over the next few months. I hope that Iain and his cousin are doing as well as they are right now. On a side note this house is getting a bit crowded.

Two new words for our boy....

• So today well I was talking to my mom on the phone. I told her that Iain has really started to jabber. And he said it too. What surprised me more than him saying jabber was that he kept saying it. Well after Brian came home Iain said tickle tickle. Iain was trying to tickle Brian's feet and started saying tickle tickle. It was so funny. Brian and I were laughing so hard that my sides started to hurt.

• I've been wondering when our boy was going to start talking. Yeah I know he says words but he didn't repeat them when you ask him to. But all of a sudden he does. And its amazing. I'm so proud of my baby. And you know what I'm doing something right. He is learning and fast. It's something new every day.

• Oh yeah I have a question for the other moms out there. Do you children know how to open the child proof locks and gates? Because Iain does. And it's kinda scary. I'll be in the kitchen cooking and here the basement/bathroom/garage door open and there is a gate in front of the hallway. And I freak out every time. Or we'll be playing and he disappear and I'll hear nothing until I hear him giggle. And he'll have the cabinet under the sink open and he'll take the dishwasher tablets out (he likes to put it in the dishwasher) so I'm not worried that he'll put it in his mouth. But still scary that he can open these things that are at times adult proof and he is only 17 months old.

Potty training...

So the last few days Iain has showed an interest in the potty. He will walk into the bathroom and try and take his diaper off so that he can sit in the toilet. So does this mean that I should start potty training him? Brian and I were talking about it and I think we will go and buy him a potty of his own. When did you moms start potty training your kids? And are boys harder to train than girls?

Iain says...

"Me bath". Yesterday when we were headed downstairs to get him ready for bed, he said "Me bath". And he was right. We were going downstairs to give him a bath (he was such a mess after dinner that he really needed one). I was so amazed that he said that. He now says it when he thinks he is dirty. So like all day. Iain justs wants to play in the water.

Help!

Ok a friend of mine has asked me to do a craft fair and sell some of the things that I croquet. (This craft fair is going to be in her house in November). And I need some help with pricing.

• I croquet baby sweaters for boys and girls.
• baby girl dresses
• baby booties
• baby blankets (and lovees that are smaller versions)
• blankets
• receiving blankets
• womans sweaters
• kitchen towels
• wash cloths

Do you realize that Christmas is around the corner...

1 month till Nursery

Iain turned 17months old today and the count down begins till Nursery. I'm not to excited that I have an almost 1 and half year old but it should be fun for him because he'll be with his friends.

Fainted at the temple...

No not really but almost. Brian and I went to the temple today (yeah for us). First of all we wanted to leave at 9am but we couldn't find my wallet (which had my recommend). So we destroyed our room looking for it when I finally sat down and called Julie (she and Dusty were watching Iain) and I asked her to look in the pocket of the diaper bag and sure enough it was in there. We by the time we straightened our room up and left the house it was already after twelve in the afternoon. We finally made it to the temple and were able to attend the 2:30pm session. Towards the end of the session I started feeling really dizzy and really hot (I also started to black out). I almost fainted (wouldn't that have been a sight to see for everyone there) but I didn't, thankfully. I told Brian that we needed to get something to eat and drink after we left the temple. So we ended up heading to the mall to get some food. But eating hasn't helped at all, I still feel weired and off.

Totally Random

Ok so I just stumbled across a website that has ALL of the Baby Blues comic strip that I would read every day growing up. I just thrilled. I started reading them from the beginning again (1/1/1996). This is going to be great. So, how many of you read this comic? http://www.babyblues.com

Looks like another busy season

It looks like the holidays are going to be super busy this year. Before Thanksgiving my parents will celebrate their 25th wedding anniversary. And than all the birthdays. Well, after my birthday and before Brian's birthday, there will be a wedding. His younger sister, Shiree got engaged on Wednesday. And she is quite excited that she is moving on with her life. She graduated from BYU in April and now she is getting married. Brian and I are so excited for her. So it's going to be busy around here for a little while.

Brian scored really high

So, Wednesday afternoon Brian took the Army aptitude test (Asvab test) and scored a 93 out of 99, the national average is 43. This means Brian has his choice of any job in the Army. We're pretty excited about this. The recruiter told him he has lose 15lbs by October 1st. When the recruiter will see if he has lost the weight so that they can schedule the PT test. And after all that is out of the way the recruiter can schedule his French Horn audition. It looks like everything is coming together now. We are glad that this has worked out this way.

Again didn't make it to the temple....

• But we did go out to dinner. Brian asked me if I wanted to go to Red Robin or Olive Garden. And I said Red Robin. Its one of my favorite places to go to and we hadn't been there since March I think (that tells you how long its been since we went out to dinner).
• Iain was at his aunt and uncle's house for the night, so we didn't have to worry about getting home early. Iain had a great time with Julie and Dusty. They took him to a bar-b-q at Dusty's aunt's house, where Iain got to play with Dusty's little brother, Ryan (Ryan will be 2 in December). So they are really close in age. The held hands and ran around the party playing (and begging snacks off of everyone). By all accounts they were the best of friends and just so cute together. Dusty's older brother wants them to bring Iain to his house to play with his little boy who is the same age has their little brother (sorry I don't have permission to give those names out).
• I think it would be good for Iain to play with more kids his age to get used to being around other children. Since Brian and I would like to have more children in the future.
• It was weired for me last night without Iain here. I woke up every for hours to see if he was still breathing and sleeping. And he wasn't there (and I would remember that he was safe at his Aunt Julie and Uncle Dusty's place) and would go back to bed. It was nice not to wake up with him in bed with us. And to get uninterrupted sleep. And to take a shower in the morning instead of when he is taking his nap. It was great.

Trying to go to the temple tomorrow

Brian and I are going to try and make it to the temple tomorrow. We tried the last week in August but things just got all messed up and things came up. So we are trying to go tomorrow. Iain is sleeping over at his Aunt Julie's house. So we'll see if things work at this time.

Nursery here we come...

So Iain starts nursery in October, so Brian and I have decided that every Sunday one of us is going to take him in to get him used to being in there. This past Sunday was the first Sunday that he got to go. He had so much fun playing with the other kids. When it came time to help put the toys away he was very helpful (now if only I could get him to do that at home :P). Singing time was next, and he climbed into the chair right next to a little girl (I have a lady's man on my hands, I'm in trouble). Iain was so cute sitting there with the sun cut out for the song "Jesus Wants Me For A Sunbeam". Well because he sat in the chair the whole time he got some Skittles for a treat. Before the lesson he grabbed my hand and walked me to the door and started pushing on it (he was telling me that I could leave so he could play. Oh man, he is getting so big). So, I think he is going to enjoy being in Nursery come October. I think I might cry through.

Babies Don’t Keep by Ruth Hulburt Hamilton Mother, O Mother, come shake out your cloth, Empty the dustpan, poison the moth, Hang out the washing, make up the bed, Sew on a button and butter the bread. Where is the mother whose house is so shocking? She’s up in the nursery, blissfully rocking. Oh, I’ve grown as shiftless as Little Boy Blue, Lullabye, rockabye, lullabye loo.

Dishes are waiting and bills are past due Pat-a-cake, darling, and peek, peekaboo The shopping’s not done and there’s nothing for stew And out in the yard there’s a hullabaloo But I’m playing Kanga and this is my Roo Look! Aren’t his eyes the most wonderful hue? Lullabye, rockaby lullabye loo.

The cleaning and scrubbing can wait till tomorrow But children grow up as I’ve learned to my sorrow. So quiet down cobwebs; Dust go to sleep! I’m rocking my baby and babies don’t keep.

So I know I don't always get this put away like I would like but I remember this poem and think that its okay that things can wait. I love that Iain is still little but one day in the not so far away future he will be headed to school and I won't be with him all day long. But for the the moment things can wait to be put away my little guy is here wanting to explore this world. And I want to show it to him and see everything for the first time with him. To experience it all again because its all new and so exciting when you have a little person to show it too. So, the dishes and clothes can wait for a while. I realized that I was wishing Iain was older so he could tell me what he needs. Shortly after that thought I came to the realization that he wasn't always going to be this little and this time was special and to cherish this time for as long as it last because it won't last. There are days that I wish he was still a little baby but right now Iain is so much fun right now. He is so full of adventure and wonder that I can't wait till we are exploring this world together. So I'll stop wishing for him to be tiny again and be happy with right now.

Iain has leanred a new word...

My baby has added a new word to his vocabulary. This morning while I was putting a way the dishes, Iain said gram and a minute later added ma. (So for those of you that don't know my mom is Gram and Brian's mom is Grandma. So technically he has added 2 words to his list). His list of words...

1. Mama
2. Dada
3. Hi
4. Out side
5. Yeah
6. Hey
7. Dug (for dog)
8. Gram
9. Grandma
10. Up
11. Bye-bye
12. Uh-oh
13. Da (for down)
14. Appa (for apple)
15. Bapah (for bath)

Wow I didn't realize that he said 12 words. My regular little talker. He is so very smart. He understands so much of what we say that we really have to watch what we do and say around him. I love my little man. Iain also points to his ears, eyes, nose, hair, mouth and toes. When we play this game with him he wiggles his toes when asked where they are and he makes this face and you just know he is so thrilled for himself. Its so funny.

Hair cuts and a trip to the temple

Well, we all finally got hair cuts today. Brian and I wanted to go to the temple today. But we didn't realize that the last session started at 4pm. We left the house at 3:30pm and traffic was horrid. It took us over an hour and half to get to the temple. So, Brian and I decided to sit on the grounds and talk for a little while before we headed back to the house. After we left the temple we went to the book store because it had started to rain hard and we didn't want to be on the road in that weather. All in all not a bad day. Kinda wish that we had been able to go to the temple.

Things I've learned as a wife and mother...

To look outside myself for help when I'm in need of it. My greatest joys are my husband and son. The gospel that has/is such a big part of my life. A roof over our heads (even if it is with my in-laws) To look for adventure/new beginnings every day. Teaching our son about who he is and where he came from. Teaching our son about the world around him. To always count my blessings.

Still not sleeping...

Okay that's not all true. Iain does sleep through the night once in a blue moon. But most of the time he screams at us till someone comes and gets him. Still there are days that he will just stare at the ceiling for hours and than stare out the window till he gets bored (no screaming when he does this). But it's not every time. Brian and I are not getting the sleep we need because of this (one of many reasons). We have read Healthy Sleep Habits Happy Child ( I've read so many books on this subject I think I could scream); we have decided that we are going to do the cry it out method. What did you guys do?

Things are starting to go right

Well things have been pretty rocky lately for us but we started to actually talk to one another. Things that have been bothering us and we just didn't hold back. Brian and I started to spend time together again (instead of just sitting in the same room watching TV on different couches). We get out of the house and talk (we even hold hands...gasp). Its so nice to be on the same page again. I don't know why or even when things started to derail for us. But that's all behind us now.

LIfe is wonderful...

I was just re-reading some of my past posts, and they are depressing (well not all of them). I hardly say anything about the things that I'm blessed to have in my life, which are many. So here is me going to post about the many blessing that I/we have.

1. I so thankful for a husband who has/is there for me, when things have been tough.
2. For a very healthy and happy toddler.
3. For the gospel of Jesus Christ.
4. That we have a living prophet leading our church.
5. For extended family that has been helping us out for the last little bit.
6. For friends that are always a phone call away when you need them.
7. For a loving Heavenly Father, that even when times a tough we can turn to for help.
8. For a ward that has been welcoming and friendly.
9. For being able to live so close to a temple and when worthy to enter the temple.
10. For being loved and being in love with a wonderful man.

How long do you wait...

How long after your miscarried did you wait till you started trying for another baby? Brian and I haven't done anything to not get pregnant. I mean we both would like another baby but do you have to wait for a little bit between having a miscarriage before you try again.

We're unpacking....

Brian and I started unpacking some of our boxes (and repacking some of them). Brian and I haven't seen most if not all of that stuff in our boxes for 2 years. When we moved to Texas in May of 2008. We had to pack everything that we would not need to take with us and store at his parents house in Manassas VA. When we moved back to VA, when stayed with his family (well we still are), we just kept all of our stuff in boxes. But well we were in Texas, his dad got a new job in Co. So, we made the decision to move out to CO with them. So, they were packing their stuff to go. So all of our stuff stayed in boxes. When we got out to CO, I was a little over a month from having our son and didn't feel like going through boxes. Than Darrel and Brian started building the apartment in the basement that coupled with getting used to having a baby around let to us waiting to go through stuff. So, on Tuesday, we started going through our boxes. We went through 31 boxes. And most of the stuff in those boxes I put back into 3 of 4 boxes. (That's just amazing to me). Let's see if we can get all of our boxes gone through by the end of the month.

We had to postpone Brian's audition...

Brian started French Horn lessons 2 weeks ago. And his teacher said that he sounded wonderful but that he needed to work on his lower register and she also said that it would take about a month and a half before he would be ready to audition. So this means he has a bit more time to get ready for the PT test and his audition. We are hoping that he will be able to audition at the end of August. Please keep us in your prayers.

Iain first sleep over...

On Tuesday, Iain's Aunt Julie said that if I wanted to go to R.S. function, that she and Dusty would love to have Iain sleep over so that I could go and Brian & I could get some stuff done after I got back. I must say I didn't jump at the idea of Iain sleeping away from home (us). So I talked it over with Brian to see what he thought about the idea of him sleep over at their house. We were in the the basement going through some boxes when I told him about the Julie's offer. And he stopped what he was doing and said that he was totally up for Iain doing that but was I sure that I heard her right. So after we talked it over. We started getting Iain's stuff ready to go to Julie's house. So, Tuesday was the first night in a long time that Brian and I got to sleep for more than a few hours. Julie said that Iain did great and was very good (which doesn't surprise me in the least bit).

How do you talk about losing a baby...

I had just found out about baby number 2, when I lost it (I was 2 1/2 weeks or so, really not far along at all). I took the test after I came back from girls night out (after watching Eclipse opening night), I thought why the heck not its not like its going to be positive, right. Oh how wrong I was. I was going to surprise Brian by telling him about the baby while we were camping over the 4th of July. So that Saturday I started cramping and bleeding. And I just knew that I had lost the baby that had barely had a chance. So no one knew about the pregnancy but me. When someone in Brian's extended family told him that they were pregnant and don't tell Jenn. I was already hurting. That just hurt even more. And of cause now when we get together with them I always going to be reminded that I lost a baby that would have been 6weeks younger than hers. How do you deal with something like that?

Neverland wasn't for me...

What I always wanted to be was a wife and mother. But I also thought it would be great to be a lawyer. When ever I was asked what I wanted to be, my first answer was a lawyer, wife, and mother. It didn't matter how old I was when I was asked that question, it was always that same. I thought that it would be terrific to be a lawyer (I didn't know how much school and work it was going to take to become one, which by the way I'm perusing that career path.Much rather get my husband through school first). The adults around me would laugh and tell me I was too young to know what a lawyer was and I would be much better suited as a teacher. But I'm glad that at least two of the things that I said I wanted to be have come true. Being a wife and mother have given me more fullilment than anything I could have been.

Iain's stats

When we weighted Iain a week ago, he weighted 28lbs and was 33inches long. I couldn't believe it. I mean he is only 14months old. He loves to read stories. Loves to throw all of his balls. Being outside just makes him plain happy. Only takes one nap...and its a 3 hour nap. (Yeah me. Well sometimes he takes 2 naps. The first one by himself and than one with me, which I love). Always wakes up with a smile on his face. Has finally stared to sleep through the night (he goes down between 7:30-8pm). Loves all foods. Is really good in the car when we drive to Utah. He lights up when he sees his Aunt Shiree and Aunt Julie. Loves his Grandpa and Grandma (Brian's parents). Adores his Gram and Poppop (my parents). Folds his arms for prayers. Loves to be sang to and to sing. Daddy and Mommy are his favorite people ever. Knows how to call Gram on Mommy's cell phone, lights up when he hears her voice. Poppop and he are as thick as thieves. Mischief should have been his middle name. Has turned into the best claimer ever to have claimed. Is the cutest explorer. Loves to bring Mommy his treasures. Can get into anything. Baby proof my foot, he can open it if he wants to (and he normally wants too all the time). Lover of dirt and puddles. Loves church. Loves his stuffed turtles from Gram. I could go on and on. But I won't. Brian and I couldn't have asked for a sweeter boy than the one that Heavenly Father sent to us. We are very blessed that he is ours and are thankful for all the wonderful memories that are centered around Iain. Even if we are having the worst possible day all we have to do is look at Iain's sweet face and there is no way that those storm clouds can stay around for too long.

What is his name? Brian Arthur Bott

How did you meet? We first meet in September of 1998 at a tri-stake dance. We danced and than went on a walk around the Oakton stake center (the building was really quite hot). (I only went to 3 church dances that year and Brian went to all but 3. Kinda funny if you think about it). Well, my friends and I left before he could get my number. Fast forward to the end of January of 2004. Brian is a returned RM and I have just started going to institute on Thursdays at the Centerville Stake center. The YSA were playing volleyball and I was sitting on the stage, when Brian and his 3 sisters walk in. Brian comes up to me and introduces himself and his sisters. He than talks me into playing volleyball with everyone. After the munch and mingle a bunch of people decided to go out and get a bite to eat (my ride being one of them). So, I sit with Brian and his sisters and get to know them a little bit. I find out that Brian has just returned from his mission, his older sister had just graduated from BYU Hawaii, one was going to BYU-I, and the youngest graduating from high school in June. My ride and I leave the restaurant after Brian asks and get my number. On February 14th, Brian called and asked if I wanted to go to dinner and a movie. I said sure why not sounds like fun. We went to see a Series Of Unfortunate Events and went to Out Back Steak House. On the way back to my house we got lost in the snow. It was memorable to see the least (the movie theater and the restaurant were in Manassas and I lived in Fairfax, so I didn't know my way back from there). Okay, now fast forward to February 2007. I hadn't heard from Brian since April of 2004 when I moved away from VA. But I moved back to VA and my boyfriend and I broke up. A chance call from Brian on the 14th of February. We went to dinner at Outback Steak House (I know again), we than went to my house to watch a movie. How long have you been married? Almost 3 years. How long did you date? 4 months of dating and than 6 months of being an engaged couple How old is he? 27 years old Who eats more? He does most of the time. Who said "I love you" first? He did.

What is something you really like about him? I love that he can make the day brighter and I adore his smile. Whose temper is worse? We are actually both pretty even-tempered. Who does the dishes? We both do. We take turns. Who does the laundry? I do. Who pays the bills? He does. Who cooks dinner? We take turns. Who drives when you are together? He does all the driving. Who is more stubborn? Me on some things and Brian on others.

Whose parents do you see the most? His Who proposed? Brian did, on May 26th 2007 on Little Round Top in PA. Who has more friends? Don't know. Who has more siblings? We are tied on this one. Who wears the pants in the family? Brian does. Who is taller? Brian is by 7inches. Who sings better? I think he does. Who is first to admit when they did something wrong? We are both really good about doing that. We don't believe it's necessary to "fight". If we have a disagreement, we just talk it out. There is no point in raising your voice - it accomplishes nothing. Any special message for your hubby? That I love you more today than I did the day we got married. All right, all my friends.... your turn!!

How to play this game of tag. Post these rules on your blog. List 3 joys, 3 fears, 3 goals, 3 current obsessions/collections, 3 random surprising facts about yourself. Tag 5 people at the end of your post by leaving their names. Let them know they have been tagged by leaving a comment on their blog.

3 JOYS

1. My husband, who always says "I love you" and is very affectionate.

2. Our sweet boy, who is the joy of our lives.

3. Feeling the Spirit in every-day life.

3 FEARS

1. Not being with my family.

2. That our son won't be strong in the gospel.

3. Spiders and bees...

3 GOALS

1.To go to the temple more often.

2. To lose more of the weight I gained while pregnant with our son.

3. To start going on more walks or to the pool - just anything to get out in the fresh air more often!

3 CURRENT OBSESSIONS

1. Reading

2. Blogging

3. Croqueting

3 RANDOM FACTS ABOUT MYSELF

1. I burn really easy- I mean I step out side with sunblock and I burn.

2. Bugs love to bite me- I'm out side for 5minutes and I'll have 10 bites.

3.I like having the TV on in the background as I do dishes or clean the house - makes it a little more enjoyable.

5 PEOPLE TO TAG

I'm not going to tag anyone. If you want to do this one go ahead but if not its okay.

While I was blog-hopping I found this post, and thought it was sweet:

They told me about morning sickness, heartburn, and weight gain.

They didn't tell me about hearing the heart beat, seeing the ultrasound, or feeling her move.

They told me all their labor horror stories. They didn’t tell me that I’d be fine, and want to do it all over again. They told me how much sleep I’d lose. They didn’t tell me that I’d enjoy waking up because I had an excuse to hold her. They told me how I’d have to keep an eye on her at all times. They didn’t tell me that I wouldn’t be able to stop looking at her. They told me how frustrating it can be when she cries. They didn’t tell me how good it feels to comfort her and see her stop. They told me how draining it is to stay home all day everyday with your children. They didn’t tell me how hard it is to leave her when I go to work. They told me books to read, latest breaking news to watch, and all their opinions on raising a kid. They didn’t tell me that in the end I am the mom and know what’s best. They told me that my life would never be the same. They didn’t tell me that I would love the change. They told me that I would constantly screw up and my kids wouldn’t understand. But they didn’t tell me that becoming a mom would make me want to be just like mine.

The ABCs of Me...Kinda sounds like a soup to me

A- Attached or Single? Very happily married

B-Best Friend? Brian and Allie

C-Cake or pie? Definitely two layer red velvet cake with cream cheese frosting and peppermint candy. D-Day of choice? Saturdays b/c I get to spend the morning in bed. Brian takes Iain for a few hours so I can get a little extra sleep/time to my self. He is just the sweetest and the greatest husband. E-Essential Item? My cell phone that way I can keep in touch with my family and friends in VA. F-Favorite color? Pink, white, and blue. G-Gummy bears or worms? bears H-Home town? Fairfax VA I-Favorite indulgence? watching a good movie while eating a yummy treat. J-January or July? January b/c its right after the craziness of December and right before the weather gets nice. Where I can just sit in front of a fire with my hubby and cuddle before I out side a bunch. K-Kids? One sweet boy and hoping for another. L-Life isn't complete without? my hubby, our son, the gospel, and the Holy ghost M-Marriage date? October 11, 2007 N-Number of brothers and sisters? 2 brother, 1 brother-in-law,and 3 sisters on my side. 2 brother,2 brother-in-laws, and 3 sisters on Brian's side. O-Oranges or Apples? Oranges P-Phobias? Spiders, especially big creepy crawly ones. And bees. Q-Quote? I love Pres. Hinckley quotes: "I have long felt the greatest factor in a happy marriage is the anxious concern for the comfort and well-being of one's companion." "There is no one prefect way to be a good mother. Each situation is unique. Each mother has different challenges, different skills ans abilities, and certainly different children. The choice is different and unique for each mother and each family."- M. Russell Ballard R-Reasons to smile? my healthy baby, my loving husband, and the Spirit in my life. S-Season of choice? Fall... beautiful colors, perfect temperature...and when we chose to get married. T-Tag 3 people: Maryellen, Mer, and Juliana U-Unknown fact about me? I count calories, and look at nutrition labels on most things I buy at the grocery store. V-Vegetable? Spinach, green beans (straight from the garden), and potatoes.

W-Worst habit? Over thinking stuff. X-Xray or Ultrasound? Ultrasound Y-Your favorite food? Chinese. And bread sticks. Z-Zodiac sign: Sagittarius

This is silly...posting about entering to win a breast pump

So I just entered to WIN Medela Pump In Style® Advanced Double Electric Breast pump – The Metro Bag™(ARV $339.99 value) at Mom’s Focus! Stop by to enter http://b2l.me/9fg3u And I'm just trying to get the word out there to all the moms that I know that might be interested in entering to win a Medela breast pump. I know this is the dumbest post yet but all well.

Currently

Book

What to Expect When Your Trying To Expect

Song Hips Don't Lie by Shakira

Frequently worn outfit/item Dark jeans

Pink or cream tee Cobalt blue sweat shirt

ballet flats

Perfume Coconut Lime Verbena by Bath and Body Works. It's not glamorous, but it smells like sex in a bottle. Makeup Not a whole lot these days. Food Any baked goods that I bake. Cheese love love cheese. And yogurt. Drink Pepsi

Guilty pleasure Caramel Hot Cocoa Bane of my existence Not having a place of our own. Joy My husband and our sweet boy My family in VA My family here in CO and UT My friends all over the place Anticipation

Getting pregnant with baby number 2 Wish list A baby! A baby! A baby!

The ability to sew a straight line.

a massage For August to be here.

followup: Brian's Army band audition in on July 23rd...keep us in your prayers

Thought

Paying tithing is an amazing blessing.

Poeple stay out off it...We don't have to ask for permission

Why is it every time Brian and I turn around someone decides that its their place to tell us what we aren't allowed to do. We have decided that we want to have another baby (and since Brian is joining that US Army we don't see any problem with trying). But this past week-end at a family reunion we were told that someone in the extended family was pregnant. So when she was talking to my husband she told him not to tell me because than I would want to get pregnant because she was. Why anyone would say such a thing and than tell someone else husband to keep it from his wife, is beyond me. I would never be as presumptuous as to say that to someone let alone another persons husband. I hate that everyone thinks its okay to tell my husband and I what we should or shouldn't do. We had people tell us that we should have bought a bed because we didn't have that money (which we do). When we moved to Texas for the Spring and Summer of 2008 we gave the bed that I had had before we got married away (it was a Full for heavens sake). If we didn't buy it for our selves than who would. Brian's parents...I think not and we would not ask them to. Brian and I are married adults and we shouldn't have to ask for permission to buy a bed and/or have another baby. It's no one's business but ours. If we ask for advice that's one thing. But to be told regularly what we should and should not do. IS just getting to be a bit much and is causing stress in our marriage that does not need to be there. Oh another thing, I really hate when people tell my husband things than tell him to keep it from me. Do you really think its wise to tell another persons husband to keep something from his wife? I know for me at least when Brian keeps something from me I know because it's written all over his face and him for me. Is your extended family like this, and if they are how do you handle it?

I've seen 201! Geesh! I have no life! SUPPOSEDLY if you've seen over 85 films, you have no life. Mark the ones you've seen. There are over 270 films on this list. Copy this list, then, put x's next to the films you've seen, add them up, change the header adding your number. Have fun! (x ) Rocky Horror Picture Show (x) Grease (x) Grease 2 (x) Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl (x) Pirates of the Caribbean 2: Dead Man's Chest (x) Pirates of the Caribbean 3: At World's End (x ) Boondock Saints ( ) Fight Club () Starsky and Hutch ( ) Blazing Saddles Total so far: 7 (x) The Neverending Story ( x) The Neverending Story II ( x) The Neverending Story III ( x) Airplane (x) The Princess Bride ( x) Willow (x) Anchorman (x) Napoleon Dynamite (x) Labyrinth Total so far: 16 () Saw (Edited) () Saw II(Edited) () Saw III(Edited) ( ) Saw IV ( ) Saw V ( ) White Noise ( ) White Oleander (x) Anger Management (x) 50 First Dates Total so far: 18 (x) The Princess Diaries (x) The Princess Diaries 2: Royal Engagement (x) Scream (Edited) ( x) Scream 2 ( x) Scream 3 ( x) I Know What You Did Last Summer ( x) I Still Know What You Did Last Summer (x) The Shining(Edited for TV) (x) Candyman(TV) ( ) Stand By Me Total so far: 27 ( x) Scary Movie (x ) Scary Movie 2 ( x) Scary Movie 3 ( x) Scary Movie 4 ( x) Resident Evil 1 ( x) Resident Evil 2 ( x) American Pie (x ) American Pie 2 (x ) American Wedding ( x) American Pie Band Camp Total so far: 37 (x) Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone (x) Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets (x) Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban (x) Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire (x) Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix (x) The Wedding Singer (x) Little Black Book ( x) The Village (x) Lilo & Stitch (x) Finding Nemo Total so far: 47 (x) Finding Neverland (x) Signs (x) The Grinch ( ) Texas Chainsaw Massacre ( ) Texas Chainsaw Massacre: The Beginning ( x) White Chicks ( x) Butterfly Effect (x) 13 Going on 30 (x) I, Robot (x ) Robots Total so far: 55 ( ) Dodgeball: A True Underdog Story ( ) Universal Soldier (x) Lemony Snicket: A Series Of Unfortunate Events ( x) Along Came Polly ( ) Deep Impact ( ) King Pin (x) Never Been Kissed (x ) Meet The Parents (x ) Meet the Fockers ( x) Eight Crazy Nights Total so far: 61 (x ) Joe Dirt (x) King Kong (x) A Cinderella Story () The Terminal (x) The Lizzie McGuire Movie (x) Passport to Paris (x) Dumb & Dumber (x ) Dumber & Dumberer ( ) Halloween ( x) Surviving X-MAS Total so far: 69 (x ) Final Destination (x ) Final Destination 2 ( ) Final Destination 3 (x) The Ring () The Ring 2 ( x) Flubber ( ) Harold & Kumar Go To White Castle (x) Practical Magic (x) Chicago (x ) Ghost Ship Total so far: 76 ( ) From Hell (x) Hellboy (x) Secret Window (x) I Am Sam (x) The Whole Nine Yards ( ) The Whole Ten Yards (x) The Day After Tomorrow (x) Child's Play (x ) Seed of Chucky ( x) Bride of Chucky Total so far: 84 (x) Ten Things I Hate About You (x) Just Married ( ) Gothika (x) Nightmare on Elm Street (x) Remember the Titans ( x) Coach Carter (x) The Grudge () The Grudge 2 (x) The Mask (x) Son Of The Mask Total so far: 92 ( ) Bad Boys ( ) Bad Boys 2 ( ) Joy Ride ( x) Lucky Number Slevin (x) Ocean's Eleven ( x) Ocean's Twelve (x ) Ocean's Thirteen (x) Bourne Identity (x) Bourne Supremecy (x) Bourne Ultimatum Total so far: 99 ( x) Sixteen Candles (x ) Pretty in Pink ( x) Lone Star (x) Bedazzled ( ) Predator I ( ) Predator II (x ) The Fog (x) Ice Age (x) Ice Age 2: The Meltdown ( x) Curious George Total so far: 108 (x) Independence Day ( ) Cujo ( ) A Bronx Tale ( x ) Darkness Falls ( ) Christine (x) ET (x ) Children of the Corn (x ) My Boss's Daughter (x) Maid in Manhattan (x) War of the Worlds Total so far:114 (x ) Rush Hour ( x) Rush Hour 2 ( x) Rush Hour 3 ( ) Best Bet (x) How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days (x) She's All That ( x) Calendar Girls ( x) Sideways (x ) Mars Attacks ( ) Event Horizon Total so far: 122 (x) Ever After (x) Wizard of Oz (x) Forrest Gump ( x) Big Trouble in Little China ( x) The Terminator ( x) The Terminator 2 ( x) The Terminator 3 (x) X-Men (x) X-2 (x) X-3: The Last Stand Total so far: 132 (x) Spider-Man (x) Spider-Man 2 (x) Spider-Man 3 (x) Sky High ( x) Jeepers Creepers ( x) Jeepers Creepers 2 (x) Catch Me If You Can (x) The Little Mermaid (x) Freaky Friday ( x) Reign of Fire Total so far: 142 (x ) The Skulls ( x) Cruel Intentions ( x) Cruel Intentions 2 ( x) The Hot Chick (x) Shrek (x) Shrek 2 (x ) Shrek the Third (x) Swimfan (x) Miracle on 34th street ( ) Old School Total so far: 151 (x) The Notebook (x ) K-Pax ( x ) Krippendorf's Tribe (x) A Walk to Remember (x ) Ice Castles ( x) Boogeyman ( ) The 40-year-old Virgin (x) The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring (x) The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers (x) The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King Total so far: 160 (x ) Indiana Jones and the Raiders of the Lost Ark ( x) Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom ( x) Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade ( x) Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull ( ) BASEketball ( ) Hostel ( ) Waiting for Guffman ( ) House of 1000 Corpses ( ) Devils Rejects (x) Elf Total so far: 165 (x ) Highlander (x) Mothman Prophecies (x ) American History X ( ) Three ( ) The Jacket ( ) Kung Fu Hustle ( ) Shaolin Soccer ( ) Night Watch (x) Monsters Inc. (x) Titanic Total so far: 170 (x) Monty Python and the Holy Grail ( ) Shaun Of the Dead ( ) Willard ( ) High Tension ( ) Club Dread (x) Hulk ( ) Dawn Of the Dead (x) Hook (x) Chronicles Of Narnia: The Lion the Witch and the Wardrobe (x) Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian Total so far: 175 ( ) 28 days later ( ) Orgazmo ( ) Phantasm (x ) Waterworld ( ) Kill Bill vol 1 ( ) Kill Bill vol 2 ( x) Mortal Kombat (x) Wolf Creek (x ) Kingdom of Heaven ( ) The Hills Have Eyes Total so far: 179 ( ) I Spit on Your Grave aka the Day of the Woman ( x) The Last House on the Left (x) Star Wars Ep. I The Phantom Menace (x) Star Wars Ep. II Attack of the Clones (x ) Star Wars Ep. III Revenge of the Sith (x ) Star Wars Ep. IV A New Hope ( x) Star Wars Ep. V The Empire Strikes Back (x ) Star Wars Ep. VI Return of the Jedi ( x) Ewoks Caravan Of Courage (x ) Ewoks The Battle For Endor Total so far: 188 ( ) Re-Animator ( ) Army of Darkness (x )The Matrix ( x) The Matrix Reloaded ( x) The Matrix Revolutions ( ) Animatrix ( ) Evil Dead ( ) Evil Dead 2 ( ) Team America: World Police (x ) Ghosttown Total so far: 192 ( ) Red Dragon ( x) Silence of the Lambs (x ) Hannibal (x) Wall-E (x) Batman Begins (x) The Dark Knight (x) The Prestige (x) Cars (x) Gone With The Wind (x) Top Gun Total seen: 201 I tag everyone!