NINJA

In our down time, we are ninjas. 

{or Prince, Paris and Blanket Jackson}

 Jake, Lucas and Presley

This summer was supposed to be relaxing...

I have replaced the word relaxing with a few others:

• uneasy because I am pretty sure that I just broke my favorite camera lens. (just months outside it's warranty) Pretty sick to my stomach.

• Also sick because of how much time I have taken off this past month. 

•  Very unexcited to do laundry that is currently in heaps.

• Annoyed that we might have to replace Holly Hybrid. (my car) She's definitely not been behaving.

• Stressed for my also stressed husband who continues to prepare for his DAT exam for dental school. I helped him study the other night and left with a huge headache. Overwhelmed at the material, I asked him, "don't you ever want to just QUIT?" His response, "no." He's crazy. :) Better him in school than me I guess.

•  Completely nervous and excited at the fact that I have just over 3 months until I am a Mother of 2. The said laundry heaps will surely double. The car/school/work stresses will remain present. There will be lots less sleep. I will have to buy diapers again. 

...But then I remember the answered prayer that this is and I feel peace. This has brought us such clarity and understanding. There are times when I think that we're crazy for having another right now, but the thought quickly leaves my mind when I remember all the spiritual experiences we've had leading up to this little spirit. 

...and really it's what keeps me going. 

Photo taken at 23 weeks

Lucas Water Skiing

Last weekend, we took a last minute trip to see my brother and his family in Coeur d 'Alene. It was a blast! Our highlight was definitely Lucas' first time water skiing. (proud parent moment) This kid has no fear. He loved everything about being in the water - didn't matter how deep it was. 

Here are some photos (thanks adrian!) and video Jim put together of our little hunk.

Free baby sling

Just placed my order for this free baby carrier, so I thought I'd share. 

Use this code: FAMILY2011

on this website. 

total was just around $11 for shipping.

Once you order this, they also give you a promo code for a free nursing cover at uddercovers.com. I've heard some people say it's a scam, but it's worked for me! Can't beat free!

Lucas: MIA

It's Raspberry time! My favorite flavor of jam is about to be whipped up by my favorite Mother. 

...that is if Lucas quits EATING them all! 

I try and entice him to do other things... "Let's go play baseball," I say. (I hate baseball so this is a treat) "No Mom. I have to pick raspberries!" I continue on, bribing with several other fun ideas, but all I get is an "I'm busy" or a "not right now!" as he stuffs his cheeks.

It's a good thing he's cute, because I'm sure this year I'll have to go buy berries for jam.

July 4th, 2011

ahhhh.... I love this holiday. 

especially with the company we have this year.
and the awesome weather we enjoyed.

...and the fact that Jimmy's new work schedule allowed him to have a long, relaxing weekend with us.

Meet the newest member of our family, Manu:

 Tyson and Kalee

Preston Jammin' on a little tykes hoop.

 Lucas is on cloud nine with all his cousins in town.

 He insisted on having his own hot dog. Not a half, not cut up, the real deal.

My sister's kids had the brilliant idea of making human ice cream sundaes. So we did.

Chloe and Jake looking super delicious.

 It was just as gross as it looks. BUT. There will be memories.

This was the first year Lucas was able to stay awake for the show.

Tyson and Lucas

HAPPY INDEPENDENCE DAY!

Strawberry Patch

Today we took our favorite Sadie out for photos and ended up in the strawberry patch!

We had lots of fun.

...none of Lucas' berries ended up at the register...

My favorite moment happened when Lucas paused from berry picking/eating and said, "oh my... OH my... OH MY... I need to go potty!" along with the best potty dance I've seen yet! So, we raced to the nearest honey bucket. He cracks me up.

Chloe and Mason's berries

On the way back to the car, Lucas stopped to pick up a bug. (he's usually too scared)

...but his monstrous fingers squished the life right outta the tiny ladybug.

"Mom, why's it not crawlin'?"

Chloe worked her magic when we got home and got him ready for nap. ♥

and of course here's our precious Sadie cakes:

YUM!

We ended our day with fresh homemade strawberry shortcake. mmmm...