Payne Family

Mechanic-in-training

2012-02-12T21:56:00.000-08:00

I've said it before but I'll say it again, Brandon loves to be Daddy's little helper. He helped Kevin change to oil in both vehicles this weekend.
Brandon is ever focused on seeing how things will fit together, be taken apart, and reattached to something else. I think we may have another engineer in the making!
Just too happy that Daddy let him help!

Life on the floor

2012-02-10T22:05:00.000-08:00

Despite having multiple couches and a hand-me-down rocker in our faily room, we spend most of our time residing on the floor, that is since having children. We've even moved our coffee table out of the way to make more room for all the pillows, kids chairs, blankets, toys, kids, dogs, and us on the floor.

Poor Lily, she is such a good sport when it comes to the kids. She and Jake just love to get in the middle of the action, in the hopes of getting a little more attention! Mason was having a blast riding Lily, not too sure she was enjoying it as much!!!

Exploring the kitchen

2012-02-09T10:17:00.000-08:00

"Momma, I love my pacy!"
Mason absolutely loves to rub is wooby on his face, it's so cute what little corky things kids come up with to soothe and comfort themselves. He can even say wooby!
This is Brandon's version of helping me make cupcakes, by emptying the "small appliances" drawer and disassembling and reassembling EVERYTHING! He isn't quite as good at putting things away, but we are working on it. A few little mini marshmallows often helps persuade him (as a reward of course).

"Momma, are they ready yet?"

Weighin' In

2012-02-03T22:27:00.000-08:00

Brandon's 3 year check up: doing great, healthy, happy, and full of attitude! Since he is up on his vaccinations, he shots for him!
weight: 38 lbs (90%ile)
height: 40" (95%ile)

Mason's 15 month check up (@ 16 months thanks to being sick lately): right on track, big as ever! "Milk, more, baby, and hot" are just a few of the new words we are working on. Poor baby had to get two shots this time around. We'll be back for more at 18 months!
weight: 26 lb 13oz (75%ile)
height: 33 1/2" (97%ile)
head cirm: 90%ile (lots of brains in this little head)

At the rate we go through groceries, especially dairy products, I am glad I have a second frig to keep us stocked on all our favorites (especially when they go on sale).
Kevin loves to remind me that he and Brian practically polished off a gallon of milk daily when they were growing up....will I have to get a second job or should I just buy a milking cow now???

The sandbox returns

2012-02-02T14:43:00.000-08:00

Our turtle sandbox made the move with us but it has taken numerous trips to Home Depot to remember to buy more sand! This morning, while Mason napped, Brandon and I picked out the perfect spot to fill our turtle with sand. Then we proceeded to play in the sandbox for the next two hours! Mason joined us this afternoon to move some sand around, although he was not quite as interested as I thought he would be.
"Peek"
"-a-boo"

Just taking the car for a drive!

Sleepy time

2012-02-01T22:58:00.000-08:00

It must be a stage that all babies go through, this cute little bum stink buggin' in the air!
The boys had a fun and busy day playing outside with Momma, can you tell they are on the verge of falling asleep...
...and just two minutes later, both boys are fast asleep before 7pm!!!

Just another day at home

2012-02-01T15:02:00.000-08:00

Just another afternoon waiting in the courtyard for Nama to show up for her weekly afternoon visit.
Mason loves to wave "bye-bye" to any car he sees coming or going, either in the neighborhood or in any parking lot. Often times he'll get a return wave.

Momma just loves to smooch those chubby little cheeks!

"I don't want to be quiet!"

2012-01-31T22:51:00.000-08:00

Mason has been getting more and more vocal these days, even "yelling" at us to get our attention. His favorite words are: Mom-ma, Dad-dy, Dog-gy (which he uses for most animals), ball, deer, and elk. He is working hard on repleting words we are using but I think he'll be a little slower than Brandon when it comes to talking. I wonder why since he probably hears far more words/conversation than Brandon did at this age (thanks to Brandon's non-stop chatter).
He definitely knows his two signs, "all done" and "more" and doesn't hesitant to use these to convey his message!

Brandon on the other hand is a NON-STOP conversationalist! He is more often asking questions and occasionally stumping Momma for answers. I try to give the correct answer but sometimes I just can't always put it simple enough! He is now randomly recalling song lyrics and lines from his favorite movies ("Just keep swimming, just keep swimming" from Finding Nemo. Brandon seems to be grasping numbers, most often correctly showing with his fingers how many things are!

Although our house usually seems like a chaotic mess, I would be awfully lonely without my little guys to keep me company!

Sick days

2012-01-25T19:25:00.000-08:00

The boys (along with Kevin and I) have been sick for the past four weeks and just when I thought we were on the road to recovery, another round strikes. Brandon was down and out last week and again this week. To top it off, we couldn't get in to see our pediatrician today so urgent care it was! I took both boys, figuring whatever Brandon has Mason is sure to have. So $100 dollars later, Brandon has a double ear infection (yet, has not once complained of pain) with a script for antibiotics and Mason is fine (except for the chest congestion, but his chest x-ray showed nothing). The pediatrician at urgent care (who I went to high school with) did give us a script for Mason in case he spikes a fever. So, here I am hoping for a swift recovery and that Brandon will not fight taking 10 days of antibiotics!

Typical Sunday

2012-01-25T11:54:00.001-08:00

Watching the game with Daddy
Getting into trouble on the couch???

Both boys love to play with Play-doh. Brandon got a new Play-doh "grill" and lots of new play-doh for his b-day. Mason, as you can see, has discovered climbing, so now he gets to play with it too!

Brandon demands his dinosaur pj's almost every night, so thanks to Grandma Diane for the new dinosuar pj's. He has gotten very particular about his clothes. He insists on being sockless when home (despite the cold tile floor), he wants to pick out his clothes before allowing us to dress in the morning, and has gotten to the point that we were washing his most favorite pair of pj's every night or waiting until he fell asleep and changed him into another pair just to avoid the issue!

Happy 3rd Birthday Brandon!

2012-01-22T19:24:00.000-08:00

Happy 3rd birthday Brandon! I can't believe you have blessed our lives for three years already...boy does time fly.
Brandon is still talking up a storm, using vocabulary I didn't know a three year could have. He is working on his numbers, occasionally counting up to ten out of the blue, although he is doesn't really seem interested in learning his numbers/letters yet...or maybe it's my approach. He loves to play with Play-Doh, to explore the great outdoors, and of course he LOVES his vacuums (now he personally owns two, a Red Dirt Devil and a 1-gallon Shop-vac). He seems to be moving out of the terrible two's (or Kevin and I have just gotten used to it!!!) and is getting better at taking direction from us. Don't get me wrong, he is quite, um lets say, "strong willed" when he wants to be (where does he get that? Ha, Ha, Ha) and loves to ask a questions. It's kind of funny, he'll ask a question, listen to your answer, then he'll give a funny look, roll he eyes while shaking his head, and respond with a "No!"
It's cute to see him with Mason, he's getting better about being gentle and sharing (although Mason is learning to hold his own), and I can already see their friendship developing. He usually can't wait for Mason to get up from his nap and will run into to greet him, "Hi Mas", as soon as he hears him calling out.
We continued our annual birthday tradition by having breakfast at IHOP with the kids. Brandon seems less and less interested in food these days however Mason can still polish off a Daddy-size portion!

Family, friends, cupcakes, and presents

2012-01-21T18:58:00.000-08:00

We hosted Brandon's third birthday party at our new house instead of our usual location at the local park, since we now have the room (and I had the courage to be the hostess). Let's just say that hosting stresses me out a little.

I will admit, the weather was great, the kids (and adults) had fun, and the party went well. We had ~35 people over (mostly family and a few close friends), I made six dozen cupcakes (I am now pretty good at decorating cupcakes, thanks to Wilton for the decorating accessories), and we had Eegee's for lunch. Delicious!

Brandon actually smiled for the camera while we sang "Happy Birthday", but didn't seem that interested in opening gifts, much to our surprise. He was so interested in gift opening at Christmas that I figured he would be in heaven on his special day, but he was so focused on the first gift he opened that we practically had to rip it out of his hands and bribe him to continue opening the rest (with everybody staring at us). Guess it's par for the course, with a three year old!

Brandon insisted on taking a nap with his new Shop-Vac!!!!

Thanks to all for coming over to celebrate Brandon's 3rd birthday and for all the wonderful gifts!!!

Lovin' Momma

2012-01-16T18:58:00.000-08:00

Times are changing and this time it's in Momma's favor! Brandon is finally "focused" on me and less focused on Kevin. I know, that sounds bad, but it seems for the last year (or more) that Brandon has idolized Kevin and I've just been in the background. For example, he wants to sit with me now, he wants me to lay in bed with him, he wants me to read to him. He even tells me, "I like you Momma, not Daddy!" (when he used to tell me that he loved Daddy and not Mommy!).
This phase may not last too long, I'll have to soak up every minute of it!!!!!

"Life is Good"

2012-01-16T18:36:00.000-08:00

As I left work today, driving to pick up the boys from daycare, I pulled behind a brand new Jeep with a tire cover that read, "Life is Good". At first I couldn't help but think, it must be for you! I couldn't but help but think about what her life was like and where I was in my life. It was a nice reminder that yes, life may be stressful but at the end of the day, I am happy where I am at.

I reminded myself that life is good for me too. Instead of thinking only about the stressors my life, I need to focus on the positive. I have a job, I have a great family, I am able to pay my bills, and provide for my family.

Things may not always be perfect but life is what you make of it, right?

Outside play

2012-01-07T21:51:00.000-08:00

Yes, that is a vacuum attachment in his hands! Grandpa was kind enough to bring over his carpet cleaner (per Brandon's request), now we have three vacuums in our living room and our Shopvac on the back porch. Should I worry about his vacuum fetish? Maybe he'll be the next big inventor of amazing vacuums...

Our backyard is slowly getting more toddler-friendly, thanks to the lastest outdoor toy. Our swing set has arrived and is all ready for play! A special thanks to my Dad for helping us get the swing set and putting it together.
Brandon loves the slide and the the four "seater" swing. Now I am on a mission to get a reasonable priced infant swing for Mason, but he too smiles big when going down the slide. He seems fearless as long as he sees big brother attempting it first!

No resolutions...

2012-01-04T11:53:00.000-08:00

I'm pretty sure I have said this before but I'll say it again, I don't believe in New Year resolutions! Resolutions are just a glaring opportunity for me to set myself up to fail. After all shouldn't my goals be set based on my needs not just because the calendar says it's January 1st?

Here are my goals:
1. Be a frugal as possible.
Plan: This is probably everybody's goal thanks to the ecomony, but I have a plan and if I can stick to it, I hope to save a few bucks (need to pay off my car you know!). Weekly grocery bill = $75 (same as last year), limit trips to Target and Costco = this should save at least $75/month, as I just love to spend money at these stores. I am realistic though, I have two growing boys (and husband) and I realize Costco (for certain items) is great. I will also admit, I love to buy groceries in bulk...which often goes against the "Extreme Couponing" concept.
2. Participiate in the Warrior Dash and Bisbee 1000
Plan: By paying a registration fee, which is non-refundable, I have more motivation to focus on running and not let the day-to-day life interrupt what is important to me...my health! I may weigh what I did pre-pregnancy however things just don't look the same. I have already started the year out sticking to my goal of running on the weekends, now I just need to prioritize running on Wednesdays and Fridays.
3. Worry less about needing to have a clean house and focus more on the kiddos
Plan: This is so simple, clean less, play with the kids more!

New Year's Eve 2011

2011-12-31T14:09:00.000-08:00

Kevin, I can tell, loves two things most about this house. His workshop, complete with reloading bench, and the yard to spend time in.
We had a great holiday season but thankfully the holidays are done and we can get back to life as usual...
This weekend Kevin could hardly wait to start cleaning up the backyard, he even pulled the truck into the backyard to make loading it up for the dump easier. One truck load down, many, many to go! I think we will probably have to rent a dumpster when we remove some of the cactus! Brandon went along for the ride to not only to one but two of the town's landfills thanks to one of them being closed but not putting that on their website.
I do admit that Arizona winters are the best. Last weekend the highs were in the 50's and this weekend they are in the 70's....no wonder people move here!
We will be doing our usual New Year's Eve festivities, hanging out with the boys and going to bed long before the ball drops, so here's looking forward to a great 2012!!!!

Chompers and freckles

2011-12-29T19:20:00.000-08:00

This evening after bath time, while wrestling Mr Piggles (aka Mason) into his pj's, I discovered Mason is not only getting two more teeth (on either side of his top front teeth) but that a molar has broken through on his upper left side!!!! And, here I thought he would forever only have his four front teeth.

Brandon has his first freckle. I found it a couple weeks ago when we were painting. It's on his right hand , just below his wrist. I'll bet he gets lots of freckles, just like me!

Day at home

2011-12-28T18:46:00.001-08:00

We spent a much needed relaxing day at home today. The kids followed Kevin around as he worked on weather proofing our garage and front doors and then spent time with me making turkey noodle soup.
I thought we needed to show a few pictures of our house since I realized I never did get around to posting pics when we moved in this past July.

Family outing

2011-12-26T19:43:00.000-08:00

Kevin and I had a little extra time off after the holiday and with Aunt Gail in town thought we'd visit the International Wildlife Museum. This was my first time (or at least that I remember) and the boys may have been a bit young, but it was fun.

Payne Christmas

2011-12-25T21:16:00.000-08:00

Great-Grandma Anne and baby Brooklyn
Melanie posing like a fashionista
Grandma helping Brandon with his new boxing gloves...look out little brother!
Aunt Gail
Brandon and Taylor
Mason (yes he is still in love with his pacifier)
Brandon and Easton
Baby Brooklyn
Mason snuggling with Grandma Diane

Ashley-Lou-Who, looking too cute!

Christmas day was spent with Kevin's family. This year we were blessed with another visit from Aunt Gail, a healthy baby girl, and Brian and Peggy were able to have an extended stay in Arizona.

Family time

2011-12-25T21:15:00.000-08:00

We arrived at Great-grandma's house early and had a chance to visit before the holiday festivities started, which usually means Brandon has demanded to go outside to play. Brandon, Mason, Aunt Gail, and Kevin toured the common areas and spent time exploring the fountain, as usual, even getting to see a beautiful bird.

Merry Christmas

2011-12-25T20:16:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas to all!!!

We didn't get to sleep in but we did get to snuggle with the kiddos in bed this morning before remembering Santa came to visit us. Brandon and Mason were surprised to find a big red wagon by the Christmas tree, which they immediately climbed in to finish unwrapping presents. We decided to follow Kevin's family tradition of an unwrapped gift under the tree from Santa...and so starts our family traditions!!!

This Christmas was a blast with the kids. Brandon definitely understands what to do with gifts and Mason seemed to just take it all in, mostly interested in the Pez he received the night before.

Brandon's favorite gift...the red dirt devil vacuum we found on clerance at Target.
Mason's favorite gift...the green John Deer tractors (and anything his big brother is interested in).

But we have one more gift coming...a new swing set for the boys...should be here next week. The boys are going to love this...especially as it warms up!

Thank you all for the great gifts, for spending time with our family, and for the support you always give us.

Christmas Eve

2011-12-24T20:49:00.000-08:00

Kevin and I braved making a turkey dinner for my parents (yes, both my mom, stepdad, and dad spent the evening in each others presence and actually had a great time) this year. It was great to have people over to our house and let the boys be in their own environment.
Our turkey dinner turned out great and the evening was spent reminiscing of old times and watching the boys take in the holiday!
Thanks to my parents for the great gifts and for spending the evening celebrating with us.

Christmas-Round 2

2011-12-23T20:46:00.000-08:00

This evening we celebrated the holiday with my Dad's side of the family. As always, we ate good food, enjoyed the company of family and an old friend, and were blessed with presents galore for all the kids.
I love the excitment all the kids have as paper starts being ripped off the packages. It is pure joy on their face as they quickly examine their present and then move onto the next.
Thanks to everyone for the gifts!

Kweiser Christmas

2011-12-18T14:28:00.000-08:00

Brandon and great Uncle Lou, just enjoying some snacks.
My Mom and I in the midst of preparing Christmas dinner.
Thanks for the gifts Uncle Johnny and Aunt Rachel...
The boys (including Kevin) love to play with the Chuggington train.

Today we celebrated an early Christmas with the Kweiser side of the family. Most everybody was there and of course the kids started their first round of presents.

Brandon didn't have to be told twice that it was time to come in to open gifts, he immediately dropped the sticks he was playing with and ran for the door! A big thanks to Uncle Johnny and Aunt Rachel for the Chuggington train set and the alphabet floor mats.

New Arrival

2011-12-17T21:38:00.000-08:00

Welcome Brooklyn Marie, the lastest addition to the family (that makes baby #5 for Brian and Peggy)!!!! It's offical, Easton is out-numbered now with four younger sisters.

Blogging, reading, and running

2011-12-17T19:33:00.000-08:00

There was a time in my life that was just about me. I ran when I wanted, ate when I wanted, did what I wanted, and slept when I wanted. I owned my schedule, thrived in my routine, was in control of my world. I know this sounds very self-centered but it was true.
Now, almost three years after having kids, I sometimes feel lost in my life. It took me a while but I have accepted and embraced my new role, relinquished whatever control I thought I had. Don't get me wrong, being a mother has been one of the best experiences of my life, but I have managed to lose myself along the way. And yes, I will take ownership for it, for the most part.
So, as I think about what I need, I realize running used to keep me grounded (gaving me a chance to clear my mind, do something that was truely for me). I want to read the stack of books I have bought but haven't got around to reading, and of course blogging, which helps me fulfill my need to keep a scrapbook of my family.
Simply put, I miss running the most. And for the record, running with a jogging stroller does not count. I plan to get back to running, to train for the Warrior Dash and the Bisbee 1000. Maybe I'll even consider running a half marathon, it used to be on my list of things-to-do. Lets hope I can MAKE a little time for me!

Random pic's

2011-12-17T11:56:00.001-08:00

Just some random pictures from our daily life....

More words from Mason

2011-12-15T19:25:00.000-08:00

...ball, wuby, doggy. These are just a few more words that Mason is trying to perfect.

Happy Birthday to Kevin

2011-12-14T19:30:00.000-08:00

Happy 29th Birthday Kevin!!!

Poor Kevin had to work but that gave Brandon, Mason, and I a chance to make yellow cupcakes with chocolate frosting (per request)!!! My little helpers were caught taste testing the batter and sat in front of the oven door watching the cupcakes rise.

Thanks to all for the cards sent, it was another great birthday celebration.

Saturday afternoon with Grandma

2011-12-10T23:41:00.000-08:00

We spent the day at Diane's to celebrate Kevin's birthday. The peanut butter pie (and lunch) was delicious. Worth every calorie!!!!
Just stopping to smell the flowers....or contemplate picking all the leaves off.

The boys love exploring the backyard, this trip found Brandon obsessed with Grandma's Shop-Vac (just his size you'll notice) and Mason content to play in the sandbox.

Mason's 3rd word

2011-12-06T18:46:00.000-08:00

This weekend while I was working, Kevin taught Mason a new word! He now points to the deer mounted (Grandpa Payne's mule deer) on the wall and says, "dea"!!!! My hunter of a husband is very proud of this as Brandon's "3rd" word was elk (thanks to the elk mounted above of fire place in our old house). While we are still a ways away from full conversations with Mason, he gets his point across just fine by grunting, pointing, raising his voice in protest, and heading to the kitchen when I ask if he wants to eat.

Cold December days

2011-12-03T18:55:00.000-08:00

It has been another cold and rainy weekend but that hasn't stopped my boys from playing outside. Kevin continues to humor me by putting up more Christmas lights, this time on the back porch. After all, one can never have enough colored lights to make the house feel festive.
There was always something comforting about the Christmas lights glowing through my bedroom window in my childhood. It made the night seem peaceful and gave me hope that the day to follow was full of promise. These days, my life is busy with work and my other full time job, motherhood, but I am still drawn to the Christmas lights at night.
We have been talking to Brandon (and Mason) about the meaning of Christmas and that we will soon be buying gifts for our unknown "friends" from the angel tree. Again this year, I find myself more excited about buying gifts for those kids than for my own! I also think we will (again) participate in the annual diaper drive (for both children and adults). After all, there are many people who need help.

Another day

2011-11-30T19:15:00.000-08:00

The boys usually can't wait for Daddy to get home after work and will follow him around the house as soon as he arrives! Kevin is so good with the kids and they absolutely adore him...it really is a team effort at our house.
The boys love to sit at their project table...Mason is figuring out what to do with the crayons (thanks to Brandon's guidance) and Brandon loves using the foam stickers, glitter glue, and other crafts to create artwork.
Loving our reading time, thanks for all the great books you've sent us Aunt Gail!!!

Brandon loves to pretend he is reading the books by himself. (I have even seen Mason laying on the floor and turning the pages of books). Hopefully we will have early readers!

Thanksgiving 2011

2011-11-24T22:25:00.000-08:00

It was my turn to work Thanksgiving this year so I missed a nice breakfast with the boys at home but they made up for it by coming to see me for our first of two turkey dinners today!!! As we had no other invitations for this turkey-day, my friend and co-worker, Deannea, offered to have us over for dinner.
We were excited to have dinner with Deannea and her family but I was a little anxious as her children are teenagers and her house has long since lost the need to be toddler-proofed and Brandon is quite (oh, lets see how I should put it)...independent-minded these days, so I was fearful it would turn into a battle of the wills! Brandon (and Mason) did great and I think we may be invited to return in the furture. Thanks for a great dinner Deannea.

We accepted a last minute invitation to spend Friday with Uncle Robert/Aunt Cheri (and cousins) in Phoenix. Brandon and Mason had a blast exploring the backyard, checking out the horses, and playing with Jess's old toys. The highlight of the day for the boys had to be riding the tractor with daddy...their smiles couldn't have been bigger!

The weekend was supposed to be relaxing, just spending time with the kids and decorating for Christmas however Dad encouraged us to replace our kitchen sink (which was a freebee from my Dad)! Let's just say it was not as easy or inexpensive as one would think. It took three trips to Home Depot, a new disposal and faucet, and a lot of frustration (digging through the trash looking for missing parts). So our free sink only cost us ~$250! So much for the free sink! But, I will admit, it does look nice.

Thanksgiving part 2

2011-11-20T19:59:00.000-08:00

We braved another round of photos at JCPenny this morning. Mason is not fond of picture taking but we got a few good pictures for our holiday card! I couldn't resist dressing them alike this year. Then it was off the GG-Dudley's house in Green Valley for lunch with the Grandma's. The boys spent a fair amount of the day outside, exploring the grassy area, the fountain, and of course watering the plants. Mason did so well this weekend walking in his hand-me-down shoes.

Let the celebrating begin!

2011-11-19T19:46:00.000-08:00

Today we celebrated our first Thanksgiving feast with the Kweiser family. I always bring my camera, intent to take pictures to remember the day by, but always seem to forget to take any. This year I'll blame it on chasing two kids under three around my Aunt's house (not an all together kid-proofed house). As always, it was good to see everybody and it makes me wonder why we only get together over the holidays (when life seems even more stressful than usual)??? Maybe in the year to come that will be my goal, organize a spring Kweiser get together...we'll see.

Lazy weekend with the kiddos

2011-11-13T16:51:00.000-08:00

Ever since moving to our new house the weekends have been filled with projects, chores, and family of course! So, this weekend we decided was all about our family of four, just wanting to spend time together and relaxing (as much as you can with two kids under 3 years old). It rained ALL day Sunday, which of course, inspired me to cook, Kevin to autotune the TV to all things sports, and the kids to be indoor bound.
We love to splash around in the bathtub.
Mason loves to play on Brandon's bed and Brandon is getting better about sharing his space!
This is my attempt at trying to prepare Brandon for our holiday photo next weekend, usually he closes his eyes and makes a goofy smile when the camera is out.
We love our outside picnic table!
A big thanks to Aunt Rachel for stopping by this weekend and letting Brandon go for a ride. This brings back memories of my young adulthood, where days were spent at the ranch in Happy Valley and "tending" to our horses at my Mom's house. Most of my memories of our horses include shoving stalls and looking for "run-a-away" horses at 2am. Ah, good times!

Kevin and Brandon spent a couple hours digging holes for our future citrus trees!

Trying times

2011-11-10T19:52:00.000-08:00

The terrible two's have struck with a vengeance and there doesn't appear to be an end in sight! I wish I could have caught today's tantrum on video...it was pretty funny!
I have decided it's irony really, as parents we have worked so hard to encourage our children to be independent but as they want to express their autonomy we demand control back. So we "pick our battles", "gives choices", and try to remember that in our son's world, the little details and routines matter the most.
Parenting, I have decided, takes more energy and endurance than anything else I have ever done!

Lovin' the rain

2011-11-07T08:38:00.000-08:00

Today is my favorite kind of day, a rainy day at home with the boys. Having grown up in the desert, these days are too few to not enjoy. Brandon voted we stay in our pj's and I voted that we should spend some time cooking this afternoon!
The down side to the rain, is that we have to stay inside. The boys have been busy watching the rain run off the back porch and keep asking when they can go outside!

Mason update:
He is now walking 100% of the time, it almost seems like he is walking just to walk, but I suppose practice makes perfect! He mostly says momma (especially when he gets hurt) and da-da, otherwise it's toddler-babble. His favorite foods are berries, pasta, and cheese. He no longer uses a bottle, which was his choice! His favorite game is peek-a-boo, "rub your belly", and loves his ball pit (mostly loves to put the balls through the holes). He loves to be outside and loves going places (since his seat is now forward facing and he can watch the world go by). He likes patting (ok, hitting) the dogs and is especially fond on poking at their eyes. They are such good sports about it! Mason is finally sleeping through the night, is usually the first one up (at ~5-5:30am), and still needs two naps/day. His personality is now full-force, he hates not getting his way (and by this I mean he has perfected tantrums), and will still let me cuddle him (around bedtime). He gives the best kisses ever...

Brandon update:
His vocabulary is amazing, he understands tons of concepts, and has definitely hit the why-what-which? phase! He is strong-willed, independent, and a ball of energy. He can (sometimes) count to ten, he loves to help me cook and to watch cooking shows, and to be daddy's little helper. He can put his own shoes on, but interestingly does not like to dress/undress himself. He is mostly potty trained (he still refuses to use the potty for #2 but he doesn't have accidents as he will ask for a pull-up. He seems to have an aversion to pooping but not peeing in the potty...hopefully this will pass with time). He is working on his next set of molars and will often ask to brush his own teeth. Brandon's favorite foods, well that really depends on the day, but he will rarely turn down a bowl of pasta with butter/parm cheese.

Snapshots of Mason

2011-11-06T20:56:00.000-08:00

A love affair continues. Mason seems just as fascinated by the Swiffer as Brandon used to be.
Don't let this little face fool you, he can be quite mischievous!
Mason is sharing our pillow with Jake, who seems to understand how to properly use pillows!
How many rolls do you see?
Zoning out before bed with daddy...already a lover of sports.

Mason has really become quite fond of Grandpa, especially since he moved to town and has dinner with us on Sunday evenings.

Gram & Ray

2011-11-02T15:24:00.000-07:00

(my grandparents and I, U of A graduation, May 2003)
The boys and I decided to visit Gram and Ray (my grandparents) today and since it was such a beautiful day outside, we decided to walk over. We got there just as Ethan and Sarah (cousins of the boys) were getting home, so they had a few playmates to burn some energy with. Sarah adores all "babies" and just can't help but mother (sometimes smother) Mason. Ethan is nine now but still has fun playing with Brandon, too bad they aren't closer in age.
My grandparents are the best, words can barely describe how wonderful and giving they are. Some of the best memories I have are from my days spent with them over the summer, which gave me a chance to have "sisters" for a couple months each year until we were in our teen years. My grandmother would come and get us (Ruth, Kim, and I) from our parents the day school let out and return us the day or two before school resumed. I can only imagine how it was bittersweet for my parents, a few months without me but a few months without me....
Those summers in Phoenix were spent swimming, riding our bikes, laughing, and eating (boy could Grams cook a good meal, stuffed cabbage rolls were one of my favorite). It was where Emily Post was often mentioned and where frequent trips to the ranch left us with a work ethic unrivaled by few. This was also the place that would later contribute to my need to "hoard" food (as Kevin calls it). Have I ever mentioned the stock-pile of food my Grams kept? I am pretty sure the first thing we would do upon arrival to her house was run into the air-conditioned house, throw open the back door and head for the outside freezer, which was usually stocked to the brim with all things delicious (especially my frozen strawberries).
These days my grandparents have a large pantry (actually a secondary pantry, which is dedicated to the great-grand kids)...I am a bit jealous! We couldn't have been there ten minutes today before the snacks were being brought out by the armful. Nobody goes hungry in Grams presence! Looking back, I am pretty sure it was her mission to never let us go hungry, which fortunately left none of us overweight!

Trick or Treat

2011-10-31T20:47:00.001-07:00

Brandon decided to wear his pj's for trick or treating instead of the spider costume. They were so cute, glowed in the dark and everything!
One of our neighbors puts on Tomb Town every year, and best of all, the proceeds go to the Tucson Food Bank!! I think this was Brandon's favorite part of the night.
Brandon caught on to the goal of going door to door after a few houses, but he still wouldn't say "trick or treat" and didn't seem too sure about taking candy from strangers. Mason wasn't too sure what we were doing, but he was a good sport about it!

Just about ready to be done with halloween. He was a trooper and stayed awake for the two hours we spent walking around the neighborhood.

Halloween at Grandma Diane's

2011-10-30T21:00:00.000-07:00

Our attempt at getting a picture with mommy...Brandon has a difficult time standing still and smiling simultaneously.
Mason eyeing the sandbox at Grandma Diane's.
Brandon decided, last minute, that he wanted to be to a spider (despite the Buzz Light Year costume I already had for him), so thanks to Walmart for my last minute purchase.

Brandon let me rock him to sleep after a hard day of playing at grandma's.

Who me?

2011-10-29T21:18:00.000-07:00

Adorable
I caught Mason on top of the table, looking through the target bags. He managed to climb up there all by himself, much to my surprise.
Aren't I too cute?

Look at us....loving our chairs.

Mason finally walks!!!

2011-10-29T16:14:00.000-07:00

After thinking Mason would never do more than shuffle on his knees, he decided to give walking a try.

Good times!

2011-10-28T21:29:00.000-07:00

Here's a video from a few weeks ago of Brandon making Mason giggle.

0' dark thirty

2011-10-23T08:24:00.001-07:00

For the past three mornings, Mason has decided the four o'clock hour is the best time of day, especially if he can share this time with Mommy!!! Brandon decided to join the fun this am, so we made pancakes and watched the sun rise together.
Just for the record, I miss sleep!

Pumpkin Pickin 2011

2011-10-16T16:16:00.000-07:00

This year found us at a new farm for our annual pumpkin pickin' adventure. We went to the Marana Farm with Grandma Diane and Great-Grandma. It was great, close to home and definitely family oriented (petting zoo, jumping pillow, straw maze, and sand-box!! We started this tradition while Kevin and I were dating (with Brian, Peggy, and Easton) in 2003 at the farms in Willcox (Apple Anne's) and most years since, but last year we were at Agua Linda farms (I delivered Mason two days later). Apple Anne's is still my favorite! Mason's first time at the pumpkin patch!!!

1st year comparison

2011-10-15T15:18:00.000-07:00

I've said it before but I'll say it again, I grow large boys! Mason is right on track to be as big as his big brother!

Mason: 25 lbs (80th %ile)
32 inches (97th %ile)
70th %ile for head circumference

Brandon (at one year): 26 lbs
31 inches

Mason is doing well, reaching all milestones and gave the doc a good laugh as he shuffled across the floor on his knees (his version of walking)!

Five years & counting

2011-10-14T15:27:00.000-07:00

I love flowers, too bad five years ago I told Kevin flowers were a waste of money, good thing he doesn't always listen to me!!!!
At our five year mark!
At our rehearsal dinner, five years ago.

Kevin and I married five years ago today!!! It's hard to believe how fast the years have gone, now here we are with two boys to make our future years that much better (and busier).

Happy 1st Birthday Mason

2011-10-12T17:44:00.000-07:00

We started celebrating the day with Mason's favorite breakfast, eggs with cheese, toast, fruit, and milk!
Still not overly fond of cupcakes

"I'm one today!!!"

It's October, let the celebrating start!

2011-10-10T18:55:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday to Grandma Diane (aka grandma with the short hair) today
Happy Birthday to Mason and Joe on Wednesday
Happy Birthday to Kim (my cousin), Stephanie and Stacey (Kevin's cousins), and my Aunt Teddie on the 13th
Happy Anniversary to us on Friday, the 14th, to Cathy and Kurt on Saturday, the 15th, my Mom and Bill on the 18th
Happy birthday to Ethan, the 18th.
Did I miss anybody????

This is by far my favorite time of the year. It's the start of fall, the weather is cooling off, the days are getting shorter, and I suppose the leaves are changing, somewhere other than here, and we get to continue the tradition of pumpkin picking!

This also is the start of the hunting season! This is an ever evolving "compromise" in our house. If Kevin had it his way, he would scout/hunt every free minute, probably even take time off of work without pay if we didn't have bills to pay!

I start pulling out the decorations (while getting "the look" from Kevin, with a roll of the eyes), starting with Halloween, which over-laps well with Thanksgiving, thanks to all the pumpkins. No sooner than the Thanksgiving bird is carved, out come the Christmas decorations. After all the time spent getting it all put up, I want to enjoy it for as long as possible! Christmas lights are by far my favorite! Reindeer are next up (yes, I have expanded my collection from the snowman-though I still have quite the collection). And so starts the holiday season for me. My biggest goal this year: Finish my Christmas shopping before December 1st so th boys and I can spend time together and make lots of cookies to share with everybody!!!

Mason's 1st b-day party

2011-10-09T17:30:00.000-07:00

Mason's first birthday party was at James D Kreigh Park this year, it was a beautiful day and everybody had a great time. Thanks to all for coming, the gifts, and for sharing in our special day.

Rick-Nic 2011

2011-10-08T16:39:00.000-07:00

Rick Engineering hosted another great picnic at Udall Park. This is actually the first one I have been able to attend (they are usually on my weekend to work). The kids had fun and it was a beautiful day.

Mason update

2011-10-06T20:40:00.000-07:00

Mason is almost 1 and finally working on getting his two top teeth, they are starting to poke through his gums! He is now waving good-bye with an open hand, can rub his belly and pat is head on command, loves peek-a-boo, points to what he wants, says "mama" and "dada", makes a variety of other noises, and has started taking his first steps over this past week. He will often stand alone for a minute and takes about 2-3 steps on his own!!! He still prefers to "walk on his knees" (which now have nice callouses), and is the fastest crawler around (his gets going so fast he actually starts going side-ways!). I'm not totally convinced he will be walking by his birthday but that's okay. I can't wait to see how much he weights at his 1 year appointment.

Momma's little helper

2011-10-05T13:33:00.000-07:00

That's right ladies, I'm training him early for you! Finally conquering his fear of the vacuum (being on).

Comfy Cozy

2011-10-05T13:09:00.001-07:00

Notice his arms stretched up by his head and his feet crossed. Just too comfy in our bed.

Mason recently has developed an intense need to be with me at night. He has started waking up in the early morning hours, crying, and the only thing we have found that calms him is to snuggle with me in bed (believe me, we have tried letting him cry it out). Literally, he will stop crying the instant I lay him doen next to me, he'll close his eyes and fall back asleep. I'll be honest, as much as it disrupts my sleep, I love to snuggle with him at night.
Come to think of it, ever since we converted Brandon's crib to a toddler bed, he often comes in our room in the early morning hours to snuggle. It' cute, he whispers "Mommy, Daddy?" as he comes down the hall, arms full (one blanket, one wuby, a sippy cup, and his pillow). Usually we are now awake, and see a little head lean in at the doorway, "Mommy, Daddy?", then he'll hurry over to my side of the bed and climb in for the rest of the night.

To the zoo!

2011-10-03T17:07:00.000-07:00

One of the prettier peacocks roaming the zoo.

Brandon and Trevor (Chrissy and Paul's son) cooling off in the play area at the zoo. Next time I'll have to remember to bring some clothes to get wet in!!!
Brandon and Trevor, new friends. Brandon is almost as big as Trevor (who is almost 5!).
I met my friend Cathy (and her sister's family) at the zoo today for some much needed down time roaming the zoo and having a picnic at the park. Brandon was so excited to see the flamingo's, he talked about it all the way there! We had a great time, Brandon followed Cathy around as if she was a goddess (as always)! His was fascinated by watching the otters, flamingos, and the giraffe. Mason was a trooper, sat in the stroller and just took it all in. His favorite, my guess, would be the monkeys.

Picnic in Sabino Canyon

2011-09-25T21:03:00.000-07:00

It was a beautiful hike into Sabino Canyon, a bit warm but that made the cool water feel refreshing. Brandon was such a trooper, he hiked all the way to our picnic spot! The boys weren't too sure about the water to start but looking for bugs made it worth getting in! I sure got a workout, this was the first time I had hiked with a kiddo on my back. Both boys love to be in their packs and enjoying the view. It was fun and we can't wait for our next outing!

Splashin' around

2011-09-24T15:22:00.000-07:00

Brandon finally having fun in the pool. He told us he is scared of the drain...poor guy, I think this is also the reason he won't poop on the potty! Mason is fearless, he just crawls over to the edge and gets in. The water was a bit cold but he insisted on being in the pool. He would crawl along the step and practice getting in and out. He didn't even seem bothered when he plunged off the step and into the pool, pulled him up and he was smiling! I think swim lessons will be in our future.

Mason's 1st hair-cut

2011-09-17T17:11:00.000-07:00

Today my little baby is now a little boy....Kevin gave him his first hair cut. I hope his hair (which was a light brown with touches of red in the sunlight) stays baby fine and keeps it's beautiful color. Doesn't he look like a different little boy???

A love affair continues...

2011-09-17T16:58:00.000-07:00

Brandon's obession with vacuums continues. It doesn't even really matter what kind, if you have one, my son can identify it! He loves our shop-vac, especially all the attachments. If you want to win him over, just bring out your vacuum when we come to visit!

Caught in the act of cleaning....I wonder how I can foster this habit for later in life??? Look out ladies, I am trying to train him!!!

Lincoln Forest Picnic

2011-09-11T21:40:00.000-07:00

What would any trip be without an outing to the nearest forest, I am married to a Payne after all!!! This is Brian's new stomping grounds and he couldn't wait to show off it's beauty. All the kids had a blast but I think Mason had the most fun, he explored all the forest had to offer...even ate a few flowers! Brandon couldn't get enough of Aunt Peggy, it's all he talked about the days leading up to and during our trip. Alamogordo is a beautiful town with what seems like a park (with play ground equipment) on every corner...is that a smaller town thing? We can't wait to go back, too bad it's a 6-7 hour trip (did I mention how many times we stopped along the highway for Brandon to "potty"...he did great, no accidents!!!

Splashing around in Alamogordo

2011-09-09T19:32:00.000-07:00

After playing in the sand this morning, we thought the kiddos would like to swim at our hotel. Brandon is still a little hesitant of the water, but Mason loves to swim. Thanks to Peggy for "jumping" in to help me "save" Brandon, she didn't plan on swimming but was a good sport about it!

White Sands National Monument

2011-09-09T14:18:00.000-07:00

We loaded the kids in the car at 3:15am Friday morning and hit the road to see Brian, Peggy, and the kids in New Mexico. We decided to meet up at White Sands to let the kids play in the gypsum sand. It was slightly overcast, which made for a perfect couple hours just moving sand around.

Labor Day weekend

2011-09-05T21:13:00.000-07:00

Happy Labor Day weekend. We had fun spending time with Johnny, Rachel, and their kids, we had a great dinner at Grandma Payne's, and we even purchased a new fridge (our current fridge is on loan from Uncle Dave).

Say cheese!!!

2011-09-03T15:09:00.000-07:00

Memories of Mason

2011-09-01T16:45:00.000-07:00

Mason is likely to be our last baby and I wish I could capture his expressions, actions, and looks on video but the camera is never near by. I have probably said it before but I can't believe how fast this phase of my life has gone by. It seems like just yesterday that Kevin and I were thinking about having babies and now just a few years later, we are done with having babies and on to raising them!!!!
Mason is so much fun, he is all smiles, and laughs from the belly. You know what I mean, that laugh that says all is good in my world, I have not yet been jaded by the world or other people's actions (except maybe my brother who is working on not grabbing toys from my hands).
He is working on saying "ma-ma-ma-ma". He loves to imitate your facial expressions, and has become quite fond of making a wide variety of noises and expressions in response to you. Sometimes he'll cuddle me and look up at me with his big brown eyes, almost as if he is saying, "I love you Mommy". He absolutely melts my heart....in many of the same ways that Brandon did at this age.

Walkin' Mater

2011-09-01T10:55:00.000-07:00

Just taking Tow Mater for a walk, his favorite thing to do. It's funny, he is on the verge of taking his first steps but just figured out how to get into a sitting position!!!
Caught the boys playing with each other!!!

The Hunters

2011-08-27T10:02:00.000-07:00

Kevin, Brandon, and baby Austin (Mike & Stefanie's baby).

Mike, Kevin, Brandon, Mason, and baby Austin!!! I'm sure the big boys can't wait until the little boys are old enough to hunt. I see lots of camping trips in our future. We opted out of our annual camping this year, thanks to buying a house, the forrest fires, and Mason being at an age that makes me shutter with the thought of camping.

Chef Brandon

2011-08-26T09:54:00.000-07:00

My friend, Edina, gave Brandon this adorable apron, so he can be a little chef too! He loves to help mix "ingredients" and loves, loves, loves to smell the spices when we are making dinner together. He usually asks to eat eggs with cheese in the morning, just so he can mix the eggs in the bowl. I think our after lunch habit of watching cooking shows before nap time has contributed to his love for cooking.

Potty training day #6

2011-08-25T10:34:00.000-07:00

Brandon is doing great with learning to use the potty, I almost don't believe it !!!!! He had no accidents at Catherine's on Monday, only one accident on Tuesday, and pooped in the potty on Wednesday!!!!!
I haven't yet braved leaving the house with the boys during this "training time" (except to go swimming at my dad's and even then I took the froggie potty with us). The thought of having to find a potty while in a store with Brandon and Mason (without Kevin's help) keeps me content at home for the time being.

Potty update

2011-08-21T20:41:00.000-07:00

Day #2 of potty training:
Brandon did well but had a couple accidents today while helping Daddy in the garage (I think he was just too distracted by all the "man-cave" stuff to pay attention to his bladder). He did ask for his diaper at bedtime but other than that he did a great job and seems to like his new under-roo's!!! i can't believe my two and a half year old is wearing 4T in hanes boxer briefs! We'll see how we do at daycare this week, I called Catherine tonight to notify her!
Next weekend we are going to convert his crib to the toddler version....hopefully that goes well, he LOVES his crib (still doesn't climb out).

Hand-me downs

2011-08-21T11:24:00.000-07:00

Mason has become quite fond of toys that Brandon has otherwise outgrown. He loves the wind up cars, he'll spend 10-15 minutes winding them up and playing with them. Mason is even learning to sit on Tow Mater on his own, although often backwards. He'll use Tow Mater or one of the kid table chairs to walk around the house with. This morning he walked up and down the halls with a big smile on his face. Whatever keeps them busy, happy, and out of trouble...

Froggie potty, under-roo's & popsicles

2011-08-20T23:08:00.000-07:00

We decided this morning that this would be the weekend to start potty training Brandon (at 2 yrs, 7 months). He was pretty resistant to wearing his big boy under-roos this morning but took to the potty in no time...thanks to the incentive of the mighty mini Popsicles he would get for being a big boy. As the day went on, I would realize he was not in the room, only to find him in the bathroom sitting on the potty. We had no accidents our first day!!!!
I am so excited at the thought of only having one little guy in diapers...and doesn't Brandon look cute in his under-roo's???

Favorite places

2011-08-16T11:17:00.000-07:00

Another moment of bonding for these guys. This is buy far the favorite spot for playing, lounging, and cuddling.
I have found Mason, on numerous occasions, exploring the fireplace.

Mason just lounging in the chair after a hard day of play and a good bath.

10 month update

2011-08-13T20:49:00.000-07:00

Mason is now 10 months and growing so fast. He still only has two bottom teeth and is still cruising along the furniture. I think he will be taking his first steps before he turns one! He is eating a huge variety of table foods, still loves avocado, fruit, and pasta the best. He and Brandon are more often found playing together, it's cute to see them sharing a few moments. He absolutely loves to be where ever Brandon is, and his curiosity is endless. I can see that I will have two little rascals dissembling things, just to figure out what they are/what they do!

Sleepless nights part 2

2011-08-08T16:46:00.000-07:00

Here are the boys, bright and early this Monday morning! Mason loves this chair and Brandon is being a great big brother.
Well, perhaps I spoke (posted) too soon, but we have been blessed with four nights of uninterrupted sleep. It is AMAZING how a few good nights of sleep can really affect you!
Now, how do I get Mason to sleep past the 6 o'clock hour....I know don't be greedy right!

Sleepness nights

2011-08-03T15:15:00.000-07:00

What is it about sleep deprivation that makes my judgement a little less than good at o'dark thirty??? For all those parents who have seen too many 3 am's...you know what I mean. It seemed like a good idea to feed the baby so we could all go back to sleep but now (at 3pm) I realize that we are not helping our son to learn how to soothe himself at night. Here we are, almost 10 months since Mason came home and I still go to bed every night hoping that he will sleep through the night, hoping that he got enough to eat (although the books say sleep is now independent of eating), but knowing that he is going to wake up. He usually just wants his pacifier (yes another crutch Brandon did not have the pleasure of having), which I gladly stick back in his mouth and then return to bed. Don't get me wrong, every now and then we will get the pleasure of sleeping until ~5:30am, but most nights we are awaken by crying. It makes for a rough day at work, to say the least.
How could I have screwed up this little guy's sleeping habits when I did so well with Brandon's sleep habits?. And yes, I foolishly claim ownership of Brandon being such a good sleeper (from ~4-5 months old, even at 2 and a half years old), after all it was I who had the pleasure of hearing him cry himself to sleep at a couple months old for naps (I remember the sound, something akin to nails down a caulk board for new mothers).
My favorite time of day with the boys is from 6 am to ~9:30am, as we all seem to be the happiest during those hours, even if little sleep was had. The evening hours are the witching hours....the evening seems to be a mad dash to make/eat dinner, clean up, bathe the boys, read books, fight about brushing teeth, and then finally get them into bed. Then finish what else needs to get done (most nights), all so we can go to work the next day feeling just a bit in control of the day!
Okay, enough about me missing sleep....time to do something about it!

Cousins

2011-08-02T22:32:00.000-07:00

Brian & Peggy (and the kiddos) came to visit before Easton and Melanie start the school year in Alamogordo. We have missed having them in town but they seem to be thriving in New Mexico.
We had a delicious lasagna dinner tonight, I wish I could figure out how grandparents always cook such good food!!! I suppose it is the years and years of feeding many that helps to prefect recipes. Brandon and Mason had a great time running around the grassy area behind Great-Grandma Dudley's house with their cousins.

Mason's crazy hair

2011-07-29T14:54:00.000-07:00

Just loves being naked....go figure.

Mason has such fine hair that it doesn't take much to make it stand on end!

Nothing better than a little power nap after a good meal. Mason's favorite foods include: avacado, "red" fruits, mom's spaghetti sauce, pasta, and french fries. Yes, to all you critics out there, my 9 month old son has already been tainted by deep fried foods (but few and far between).

Payne grand-baby #7

2011-07-21T15:09:00.000-07:00

No, I am not pregnant, my sister-in-law Peggy is!!! Congratulations to Brian and Peggy, this will be their fifth bundle of joy. We have been told it will be a little boy...finally, Easton will have a little brother to play with. We are anticipating the arrival of this baby just in time to celebrate Christmas (EDC: 12/21/2011).

Our "new" home

2011-07-19T21:26:00.000-07:00

We have moved!!! We packed our two kids, two dogs, and 1914 square foot house and moved ~6 miles east, putting me back into the exact neighborhood I grew up in! Thanks to everyone for all your help with painting, child-watching, and moving. We couldn't have done it without you all!
It has been a crazy 3 weeks...but we are finally settled (okay, getting settled) and finding our routine in our "new" 40 year old house. We just got the internet back today, so pictures will follow soon.
We will miss the memories of the old house (and the vaulted ceilings), especially bringing our children home from the hospital to that house, but we (especially Brandon) love the huge backyard and extra space in the house (2300 sq ft and close to an acre of land). Luckily, I did not have to sacrifice my walk-in closet in the process!
The kids have adjusted pretty well, just a few nights of asking to "go home". Brandon loves to run around the house and is obsessed with being outside (or anywhere that Kevin is! He is still in his "Daddy" phase).

We are so excited for the monsoon season at this house. I can't think of anything better than sitting on the back porch and taking in the smell of the desert after it rains.

Anybody know of anyone who is looking to rent?

Mason's 2nd tooth

2011-07-18T21:41:00.000-07:00

Mason is finally getting some teeth in...good-bye my little gummy grin. I can't even imagine how many trips to the grocery store I will have to make on a weekly basis when Mason can drink milk and eat more "real food".

I have been told lately to not rush this stage of my child's life, that sometime soon I will look back and miss these times of infancy.
Here are some things I know I will miss:
-Holding my babies on my hip and having them hang on like little monkeys
-the baby fine hair my children had before their first haircut
-having them cuddle on my chest as a newborn...love, love, love this.
-back of the knee fat, neck rolls, and the softness of their skin
-nursing my babies, is there anything better than the self sacrifice of nourishing your baby?(I will not miss the breast pump!)
-making them giggle (it's just pure happiness)
-the look on their face when they first see you after nap time (Mason just seems so excited to see one of us)

Backyard swing

2011-07-14T07:25:00.000-07:00

It's tiring chasing after kids all day!
Chloe, Ally, and Brandon enjoying the tire swing.

Brandon loves the tire swing, thanks to the previous owners for leaving it behind!

Mason waves bye-bye

2011-07-13T07:42:00.000-07:00

caught in the act of playing together! Who me?
Mason loves to wave good-bye, point, and clap.

Mason's 9 mo check up

2011-07-12T21:50:00.000-07:00

I grow large children! Mason weighed in at 22 lbs (80th%) and 30 inches (90th%) tall. He is right on track to be a big boy like Brandon! All is well, he is healthy and not due back until his 1 year check-up.

Sunset views

2011-07-09T21:31:00.000-07:00

The view from my back porch. There is nothing better than an Arizona sunset.

Brandon is excited to spend his first night at our new house!

4th of July weekend

2011-07-02T13:54:00.000-07:00

This hoilday weekend was spent painting our new house intead of going to see the Payne family in New Mexico (as previously planned). It took about five to six days (with the help of Diane, Jim, and Luis) to re-paint the ENTIRE house. I absolutely love the classic taupe color from Home Depot, it's very warm and comforting.
The previous owners definitely had interesting color choices. Keep posted for the before and after pictures!

Just hanging out

2011-06-29T17:09:00.000-07:00

Loving being a big boy in Brandon's Cars chair...I see another one of these in our future!
Absolutely loves to eat raspberries, can't you tell?
A little story-time with Daddy.

Just watching the world go by....ah, memories of Brandon at this age.

Our new neighborhood

2011-06-24T18:03:00.000-07:00

It's official, we closed on our new house and have the keys....now starts the rush to paint, clean, pack, and move in....all while working and tending to the kiddos!

Daddy's little helpers

2011-06-24T17:27:00.000-07:00

Mason and Daddy at the mall.
Having lunch at Johnny Rockets.
Brandon loves to go to Home Depot, so last time we were there I got him a little apron (kinda like Kevin's tool belt).

Teething & Cruising

2011-06-24T05:58:00.000-07:00

Mason's first tooth (bottom left) has finally arrived, with the bottom right behind (if you look closely, you can see it)!!! Unlike Brandon, Mason really seems to be bothered by teething, viciously chewing on everything. He is now cruising along the furniture and has figured out how to get down without toppling over (most of the time). Mason loves to eat, he really likes raspberries, avacado, and cheese.

Kevin has nick-named him "Little Iguana", because he crawls with such determination and his body movement looks just like a lizard. Brandon really gets a kick out of calling him this....they are really getting along these days. I often find them playing together with blocks or in Brandon's room. It's too cute, until Brandon tries to smother him.

Window watching

2011-06-21T07:37:00.000-07:00

What's out there?

Fathers Day 2011

2011-06-19T15:31:00.000-07:00

Brandon and Mason had their first swimming adventure at Grandpa's house today. Mason seemed to love the water, Brandon really didn't want to get in further than the steps...sure beats the kiddy pool in our backyard during the summer heat!

Wallow Fire Aftermath

2011-06-16T18:01:00.000-07:00

The Wallow Fire is still burning but is growing less and less each day. We are starting to see pictures of what the area now looks like. Escudilla Mountain is one of the areas that burned. Escudilla is the 3rd largest mountain in Arizona at nearly 11,000 feet in elevation. Escudilla was a beautiful mountain covered in a mix of conifers and aspens as well as high meadows. It was known as one of the best places to see the changes in the colors of the aspen leaves. The pictures of what it now looks like are very sad.

This is a picture taken from the lookout tower on top of Escudilla, looking south.

This picture was taken from the air, looking at the same view, with the lookout tower where the other photo was taken in the foreground. We can only hope that the rest of the fire was not as intense and that some of the forest survived.

Bath, books, and bedtime

2011-06-15T21:12:00.000-07:00

Brandon and Mason caught playing together in the tub. Brandon and I have really established a ritual of reading before bed....I can't wait until Mason will sit still long enough to read to also.

Wallow Fire update (again)

2011-06-14T17:00:00.000-07:00

It is now the largest wildfire in Arizona history, having consumed 469,407-acres, and is 18% contained!!!