The Clayton Family

Only in Philly!!!

2009-07-24T14:35:00.000-07:00

Okay, only in Philly can you get a parking ticket when you don't even live there. Yes...that's right. We got a letter a week ago saying that they were going to send us to collections if we didn't pay the 2 (that's right 2) tickets we received in January of this year...WHAT! As most of you know we have been in Las Vegas (with new plates mind you since September). We tried to explain this to them, but being the great customer service agents that Philly is known for, they didn't care. I told them that we don't have those plates and they were turned into the DMV here but we had to get a notarized letter stating our situation as well as copies of our current registration here...nuts! We have done so and are waiting to hear what happens. The craziest part is that is was on our plates that we had in Philly but the DMV in Vegas said that they don't send them back...they destroy them. My real question is how someone got our plate number and used it in Philly...foul play in the DMV...shocker...not really!
I know I haven't written FOREVER & have tons of updates and pictures that will probably never get posted. But I will try to be better (especially once we have our own home and I feel like my life is more normal...although this is becoming normal...yikes). We are all well and the boys are great and growing. We miss Philly, contrary to this vent about the parking authority, but are adjusting to Vegas. I'll try to get pictures fairly soon of the boys at least. This story was just so funny/crazy that I had to let my Philly fam/friends know.

Zea's finally potty-trained!!!

2009-03-19T21:52:00.000-07:00

Besides this just being an awesome picture of Zea (boots, goldfish, hat, 2 shirts and no pants); what you don't see is that he is wearing "big boy underwear". Of course he decided he could be potty-trained 5 days before we were supposed to leave for vacation for 2 weeks to California (without Brett by the way) but he did great, contrary to the picture where he had an accident. But in his defense, we were at the park and there were no bathrooms. He has truly learned to enjoy going outside. In fact, if we are at the park I have had to re-train him to tell me instead of me turning around and finding him squatting in the middle of a playground (jungle gym and all). He is so funny about it that I don't even know what to say. He is still a little nervous about going "#2", so, I must accompany him on those trips (which he holds out for about every 2-3 days). I know more info than you wanted. But I am proud of him and how great he is at it. It was a harder push than with Taft to start but once he figured it out he has been awesome. A major accomplishment in the Clayton household. ps. vacation pictures or coming.

Zea in a Nutshell

2009-02-06T20:13:00.000-08:00

Here is Zea wearing the snow boots he has been wearing since it snowed here in December. He wears the EVERYWHERE except church (only because I won't let him). Doesn't matter the weather (as you can tell with the shorts and short sleeve shirt) or what we are doing (park, library, store...you name it). The face is pretty classic now a days as well!

This is a leash we found in the garage the other day. It is a long rope with a clip on both ends that he hooks to everything in the house. It is rather cool, actually. My favorite is when he hooks things to it and goes "fishing" over the landing from the first floor to the second. He really is very creative and inventive. What a fun boy to have in our family. Certainly keeps things interesting. I sure love him!

Zea's artistic ability

2009-02-06T20:06:00.000-08:00

After telling him 'No' numerous times to not play with our camera; he snatched it right when I walked out of the room and took as many pictures as he could. He really didn't have much time before I was back and he was in trouble but when I looked at what he shot I have to admit I was pretty impressed. Everything was pretty focused and centered and he knew what he was aiming at. These are his parents love birds.

This is "Lilly" the family dog, not mine...his parents! She is a great dog though, just smelly!

The fireplace.

The pantry. Nathan, but a nice shot of the room as well. My talented son at work. Who knows...maybe he has a future with National Geographics...that would actually fit his personality quite well.

New tooth/Old tooth

2009-02-06T19:57:00.000-08:00

We finally got a pictures of Nathan's first tooth. He got is just under a month ago but we finally got a picture of it.

Taft on the other hand just lost his first tooth, tonight. We tried before but it wasn't ready. He was freaked to try again but it was just hanging there, so, after bribing him with money, stickers for his sticker chart and then the winner...an hour on the Wii tomorrow (why I didn't think of that first I don't know) he consented to let us try. One quick pull and that baby was out. He was so excited and even more excited because it didn't hurt "at all"! Pretty exciting night in the Clayton household...now we just need them to calm down so they can go to sleep.

Here is the cutie with the new hole in his mouth. He is so excited!!!! We also have this really cute tiny treasure chest from some their action figures (thanks again Aunt Julie) that we are using to store his tooth for the tooth fairy...pretty cool to use a pirate treasure chest if you ask me. Now the big question...how much do tooth fairies pay nowadays...? I guess we'll find out tomorrow.

Guy's Ski Trip

2009-02-06T19:53:00.000-08:00

Brett, his Dad, and two of his brothers (Shane & Justin) along with Shane's 2 oldest girls (who can already ski) were gone for 3 days after Christmas for a ski trip up to Brianhead, Utah. They had a GREAT time together and are really looking forward to going again some time this year (except Justin who lives in Texas...sorry Justin). We missed Dad but I was really excited for him to have this time with the guys.

This is Brett with his twin, Justin...isn't it obvious. ;0)

Brett, Justin, and Shane (who looks more like his brothers twin).

Boys update

2009-02-04T15:39:00.000-08:00

Taft is loosing his first tooth...crazy! We tried to take it out during dinner because he was complaining about not being able to eat but it was to traumatic so we quite and will either try again later or just let it come out on his own...I just hope he doesn't choke on it during the night or swallow it.

Our awesome Aunt Julie and Uncle Mike sent the boys a Batman and Siperman outfit for their Build-a-Bears (that they also got for them). The boys LOVED them, except for the mask on Zea's. He liked it at first but then decided it was too much for him and preferred his bear without it. I think it was a bit scary for him. Taft on the other hand has renamed his bear from "Webber" to "Batbear" (at least while in costume, which has yet to be removed).

Taft in a nutshell right now. He LOVES video games on the computer. It makes me nervous how quickly he picks up on how to work the internet and how to play these games. He is one smart kid. That and I am one slow Mom when it comes to the computer/internet which many of you could attest for.

Now this is sad. Zea feel asleep in the car. We were trying to get him to wake up so he would still take a nap, so, we had him walk in the house. Only to come around the corner and find him asleep on the stairs like this. It didn't last long but was pretty funny/sad regardless. I am just glad the camera was downstairs so I could catch a picture of it.

Playdough time with Dad. Let's be honest...they are both really into it...I love that I married a man as young at heart as I am (in the good ways that is). Zea was showing me the two playdough circles that he made if you didn't pick up on that in the picture.

2009-02-04T15:36:00.000-08:00

Nathan is always so happy when he sees you after his naps. I heard him playing around in his crib, so, I grabbed the camera and caught the adorable look on his face when he finally sees you and knows you are going to be picking him up. He does get pretty ticked if you look at him and then walk away...understandably so.

Yes...I was doing dishes and didn't notice how quiet he had become until I turned around and he was out cold. It was so cute and sad at the same time.

He loves his Daddy and his Daddy is quite the sucker for him as well. I caught them while that were hanging out in the morning. Pretty cute!

This is a picture of him with his cousin, Collin, who was born 3 days earlier than him and to top it off it is the son of Brett's twin, Justin. Pretty cool huh!

He is just so cute! I just love that smile. He makes the whole family happy when he looks at us like this. What a blessing to have this little man in our family.

Christmas update...Okay, I know I am really late on this one but here you go!

2009-02-04T15:25:00.000-08:00

4 of the 6 brothers came over for Christmas Eve. We had a wonderful dinner and then, of course, the Nativity. They went all out this year with homemade costumes (thanks Merrily and Jenn) and even added Samuel the Lamanite (from the Book of Mormon) which I wouldn't suggest because the kids totally lost focus when they got to throw rocks (ball of foil) at Samuel (uncle Shane). It was fun regardless and everyone enjoyed themselves.

Here is one of the few attempts made to capture all of the grandchildren together at once.

Santa came and visited on Christmas eve as well giving all the children one of their presents for the season. He was going to have a busy night so he stopped by early (so cool). Everyone was SO excited and taken back at the same time. ;0)

To top off the night, Zea ended up with strep throat. He was up all night (as were we) and was pretty miserable for a couple of days. Needless to say that Christmas day was a bit more relaxed and we ended up having Christmas dinner with the family a few days later instead.

2009-02-04T15:16:00.000-08:00

Zea got a really cool helicopter that he loved and was so into that he wouldn't look up for the picture (that says a lot for Zea). Well, that and he was feeling pretty cruddy with the strep throat and all...poor guy!

Taft LOVED his 'human torch' costume in case you couldn't tell. I thought it was pretty fun to watch him. He has no idea where it comes from he just really thought it was cool to be a "flame man" and wanted it for Halloween, so, after Halloween sales we picked it up and I am pretty sure you will see it again in October. ;0)

Nathan was pretty excited about his one of two presents (the other a teether). He enjoyed having the guys pop up at him....he is so cute!!! Thanks for the present Grandma & Grandpa.

Okay, so, I think Brett was the most excited this year of all. He and all his brothers got these crazy Nerf guns for Christmas. This is a picture of him and his twin, Justin. They opened them together and I swear they were both 12 again...pretty cute I must say!!!

Turn of events

2009-02-04T10:20:00.000-08:00

Okay, so besides being sick for another week (I hope this doesn't become a yearly thing for me) things have been good. We have had a turn of events though. Brett is still working for the Orthopedic surgeon part-time but they aren't giving him anymore hours right now. We need a full-time job. Well, a week ago his "part-time" job with EmCare (the ER company...they hire out contracted P.A.'s to 5 different ER's). He was going to work 1-4 shifts a month. They told him that they have lost 3 full-time P.A.'s and they want to hire him but they first want him to work full time shifts for a month or two before they actually hire him...fine with us! He will still get the hours and work just not the benefits until he hired as full-time. By then we will know what is really happening with the Ortho group and will have a full time & part time job until then. Although that won't start until March we are so grateful that, once again, the Lord is making this work out for us. He did say to be patient and we have had to be but now that it is starting it is all coming together. He did his orientation for the ER yesterday and really enjoyed it. He said it was a lot more orgainzed and clean then the one he worked at in Philly...what a shocker! ;0) That was a hospital right in the middle of a horrible area that was overworked and run down. If you have lived there you would know what I am talking about. They have some of the best hospitals around and some...not so much. I love Philly but that didn't surprise me...it did Brett a little which I thought was funny. I guess he just felt that all hospitals should be fairly similar in those things. Anyhow...it has been another turn but a good one. Not to mention that the ER job pays more...always a bonus. We really have been so blessed!!

Brett's First Post: Ode to Angie

2009-01-15T23:13:00.000-08:00

So how does this thing work anyway. Is this thing on... hello? I just wanted to say how grateful I am for all of Angie's hardwork. She really is such an unsung hero, as all of you wives and mothers out there are. All through school and then moving and starting a new "I can't hide behind the cover of a student" life has been a big, hard transition, and Angie took the brunt of it. Being at home and waiting to start working these past five months has emphasized that so much more. You're awesome Babe. We could never have done it without you. Do you know what my favorite part of my first day of work was? Walking in the door at the end of the day and seeing you and the boys, and feeling the warmth, love, and spirit in our home. That feeling coming home is proof of how hard you have worked to build a home we have always hoped to have for our family--and you are doing it. So to Angie, and all the other unsung hero mothers and wifes, good job. You guys rule. You make the world go 'round, and without you, where would we all be? We owe it to our mothers, and our children owe it to you. Oh, and us husbands owe it to you to. We're pretty lucky. On the lighter side, here's my favorite proof of her hard work.

I love you Honey. I couldn't ask for a more perfect wife and friend. You're hot. Especially at 6 'o clock in the morning. Brett

update!

2009-01-09T13:35:00.000-08:00

We finally have the news that we have been waiting to say. Brett got his first official job. He was hired a while ago (very part-time...1-3 shifts a month) with a company that contracts out P.A's in ER around here but he hasn't started that yet because you need a separate license (credentials) for each hospital that you want to work in. That should be starting in February. This is the real job. He was hired by a Orthopedic surgeon named Dr. Seip. This is Brett's first pick as an occupation, so, we are pretty thrilled. He is starting out part-time because until he gets credentialed he can't assist in surgery so he will only be working on clinic days but then he will go to full-time and they are starting him out with benefits as a full-time employee anyhow. It is only 4 miles away and we are thrilled. He was supposed to start on Monday but he went today (Friday) to sign some papers and Dr. Seip has him start working for a few hours while he was there. He is a very nice doctor and well respected. He has been working for about 30 years and will be a great doctor for Brett to learn from. We feel so blessed to find such a great job in a field that Brett loves, so close to home, and with a great doctor. We have truly felt the Lords hands working in our behalf all this time. We are so grateful!
Other updates...Nathan is now in 9-12 month clothes (12 month in his zip-up jammies), sits up and has his first tooth. He still smiles all the time and lights up the day for everyone.
Zea is still full of energy and opinions. He is very loving and very funny. He loves trains still but now is into hot wheels also. He started his first day in primary on Sunday and is not a fan. He doesn't want to be "a big boy...I want to be a little boy and go to little boy class". That is the same feeling he has about being potty trained...yes, we are still trying. I am waiting for him to show more interest before I really get after him but I am starting to wonder if that will ever happen. Time will tell. At least he should be potty trained by the time he started kindergarten. ;0)
Taft is taller (he looks like some 6 year olds). He loves Nathan and is very good to him. He loves his hot wheels but his passion is video games. It is scary how well he can do them. He taught himself (by watching closely...not being shown) how to get on the computer and go to the miniclip video games website. We have had to put a password on all the computers because he kept getting caught sneaking on them. He is a great boy and very smart. I am not looking forward to him starting kindergarten in the fall. Glad I still have some time.
That should do it for now. I will get some Christmas pictures out here soon but wanted to let you all know about the job. Thanks for those who have asked and for the prayers. We feel it is working out as it should.

Moments of the boys

2008-12-18T13:12:00.000-08:00

The boys got caught playing games on the computer in the office. I have to say I am proud that Taft can figure out how to get on there but that makes me even more concerned because now that he can do it himself I will have to watch him that much more carefully. I am glad that are bonding though, even if it is getting into trouble. ;0)

A classic shot of Zea after he spilled some milk on himself. It was pretty funny but he didn't seem to think so.

Brett's parents have a train that goes around the Christmas tree. It whistles and everything...pretty cool! They have a hard time not touching it, can't say I blame them, but they are doing pretty well all things considered.
Okay, this was so funny. Zea has a pair of P.J.'s that zip up, so, he can take them off easier now. Well, the other day he came down the stairs like this and when I asked where his jammies where he said, "they disappeared" making the motion like this in the picture with his hands. I couldn't help but laugh. Props on creativity. This child often gets out of trouble because he makes me laugh...got to watch this one! ;0)

Nathan is learning to sit up by himself. He is pretty good but must still be supervised as he tumbles over quickly. Isn't he so cute...we just love this child and his smiles.

It snowed in VEGAS!!!

2008-12-18T10:04:00.000-08:00

So, I was really struggling to feel like Christmas time this year but not anymore. Maureen (my mother-in-law) said the snow came just for me. I will take that and am grateful for it. Now she says I have to stop asking for it (which I didn't in the first place but am not going to complain) becasue we have had two snow day now. It started with a light flurry but by lunchtime was full-blown snow. There was enough that by 4pm we went to near by part to sled (not too great) but also have snowball fights & make a snowman (the easiest snowman I ever made). We had so much fun and I am so grateful to have had a piece of what I consider to be winter before Christmas. Another tender mercy (for me at least) ;0).

More Pictures from Utah

2008-12-18T09:53:00.000-08:00

We also stopped and visited with some good friends in Provo, the Brown's. They have two adorable girls. So, we went to lunch and then walked around BYU campus for a while. It was a good day and fun to see them again. Hopefully, they can come and visit us in Las Vegas soon. We also visited with my friend, Kim, and her family (thanks again for dinner) but don't have pictures. Also, my step-mom, Diane, took all the girls in the family out for a nice lunch (but don't have pictures of that yet either); thanks again Diane.

Here is my Dad, brother Paul and his daughter Hannah playing the Wii (I love watching my Dad play & we got so into it that you really had to watch yourself or you'd get hit, espcially with tennis). It was a blast!

Playing on the swings in the backyard.

Reading bedtime stories with the boys. Steve and Lori, you really will make amazing parents someday! Thanks for everything!

Our trip to Utah

2008-12-18T09:39:00.000-08:00

We went and visited my family in Utah recently. My youngest brother, Chris, left for a mission on December 10th (Taiwan, Taipei), so, we went down for his farwell before Thanksgiving. We stayed with my brothers, Steve, and his wife, Lori. They just bought a house in South Jordan. It was so fun to stay with them. It is a cute and good sized house with a huge backyard (swing set included) which my boys LOVED! Man, I want a yard. It was fun to be there and visit with everyone, especially Steve and Lori (thanks again you two). I haven't been around since they got married, so, it was fun to get to know Lori better (amazing lady...good job Steve). Here are pictures of them reading to the boys (yes, Taft was working on a battle between him and the critters up his nose...nice, huh!)

This is my cute little man after the farewell trying to get in as many brownies as he could before we noticed and he was stopped. Pretty handsome...I know! :0)

Steve and Lori playing with the boys in their backyard. You know you live in Vegas when you go to Utah for greenery and trees...it was beautiful and I finally felt like Christmas was coming. They also read to the boys and played with them. And of course, we brought the Wii and spent many nights playing together when the boys were asleep. My other brother, Paul, and his family came a couple of nights which was a blast. My Dad even joined in one night and that was a lot of fun to have us all there. Thanks for coming over everyone and making our trip so much fun.

I was not meant for races...but I finally did it!

2008-12-03T13:58:00.000-08:00

For those who don't know I decided in Philly to sign up for the St. George Half Marathon (Snow Canyon to be exact). I knew it would make me keep running through the move & without my running buddies (and dear friends) when I got to Las Vegas. I am really glad that I did...I most likely would have stopped running. Although I am not sure I am destined to do these races. Okay, here's the story. We left Las Vegas at about 5am to get to St. George in time for the race. We signed-up at a High School and then had to catch a bus that shuttled you up to the top of the canyon for the race that started at 9am. The last bus would be leaving at 8:30am.
Well, because I am nursing Nathan I was in the car nursing him at about 7:45am (so he would be good for the duration of the race). I heard an announcement but was in the car so didn't make out what it said. There were buses there when we arrived so I wasn't worried but when I got out of the car (at 8:00) and took this first picture, said good-bye to my family and ran off to find the bus. Well, people were lined up but there were no buses(apparently the people were for the 5K race). I asked where they were and a lady said that the last bus left and 8:30 I told her it was only 8:10...then it hit me...that blasted time change. For those who didn't know, a little over a year ago I trained with some friends for a half marathon in Philly. We went down for the race the night before, stayed in a hotel and everything only to wake up and be told that because of the snow (which was there the day before also but they didn't want to cancel the race then) it was cancelled. The re-race was on the same weekend of my brothers wedding, so, I had the shirt but never actually ran the race. My friend, Megan, and I (Jordan was sick and couldn't run with us...sad) made up our own 13 mile loop around Kelly Drive (in Philly near the museum where Rocky ran up the steps). We finished on the steps. It was still an accomplishment but I wanted to actually participate in an organized race; this was supposed to be that.

So, after freaking out (like I lost a child as Brett told me), crying and trying to find someone who was working the race. I found a couple of ladies that were still at the registration table. One lady asked if I would like to run the 5K (which is what everyone else was lined up for). Without meaning to, I yelled "NO"! Then caught myself and said, "Sorry I just trained for the half and this is the second one I am going to miss". Another awesome lady said she would drive me up there. Well, we hopped into her car, drove up the canyon and found the race. But because the race had started already she could only take me about a mile away from the start. I ended up having to run up the canyon a little over a mile before I turned around, re started my own watch timer and left back down the canyon. I was the hardest run I have ever done. When they told me 6 mile downhill I was just worried about my already bad knees; not the fact that my quad's would be on fire. I had trained well, I thought, for this race. I had already run 11 miles 4 times before but running down a canyon is VERY different. I caught up to the other runner in 30 minutes and slowly made my way from being last...that was encouraging. The canyon was beautiful & I did make it through the whole race although I had to stop a couple of times because I was so tired (it didn't help that I just ate a cereal bar and yogurt for breakfast before). It was a great feeling to finish it and I loved having my boys there to cheer me on when I made it to the end. I really would like to do one again and this time actually be there for the gun shot at the beginning, eat a large breakfast before, and only run the 13 miles (unless I am doing a full marathon but I don't think that will be happening...I want to do a Triathlon with my sister Julie next). The best part is that I finally have a half marathon shirt I have actually run, not just trained for. ;0) Seriously, though, it was a great experience and felt awesome to accomplish. I honestly couldn't walk up (and especially down) the stairs for almost a week afterward (thanks to my downhill canyon sprint I did to try to catch up with everyone). I still finished in 2 hours and 5 minutes (not including the uphill run but in spite of it also), so, I am happy with the events of the day and especially that my boys are seeing me getting out, being active & setting goals for myself and accomplishing them. Thanks to everyone who encouraged me to do this and believed that I could. Thanks again to Jordan, Melissa & family that called me that day to wish me luck; it meant more than you know. I missed having my running girls though, Megan, Jordan & Melissa! Maybe someday...;0)

Halloween

2008-11-30T20:06:00.000-08:00

Here is our family with their cousins (Brett's brother and his kids...he is the celtic warrior with his son). Zea was once again the dragon & Taft was an elephant but not just any elephant...he was Ernie's Dad (if you know his stuffed animal he as ALWAYS had you would know what I am talking about). Brett was Seabass (dumb and dumber) or a farmer with is pumpkin...Brett was going for Seabass.

Our first play-date

2008-11-06T15:26:00.000-08:00

We finally had our first play-date with friends. We had their cousin, Liam (in blue), over & a little boy in the ward, Garrett (in red). They had a great time. They really needed it & enjoyed themselves. I have realized just how unique it was in Philly to have so many families near us with children the same age as BOTH of my boys. It sure made things easier to just go over to someones house and both of the boys had a playmate. They play with their cousin quite a bit but Zea often just ends up doing his own thing. They are doing fine but it has been another adjustment.

Ward activity...oh yeah!

2008-11-06T15:21:00.000-08:00

I had to document the first ward activity in 2 1/2 years that I have gone to where all I had to do was bring a pot of chili. It was SO easy. I didn't even have to arrive early. ;0)

What we have been up to...everyday stuff

2008-11-06T15:03:00.000-08:00

Zea was dancing in the office with Grandpa who was playing 80's songs really loud and enjoying every minute of watching Zea dance. He really is such a great Grandpa; he adores his grandchildren!

Just goofy time with brothers. I love moments like this when I hear the boys playing together and laughing hard. These are the moments I wish I could permanently etch into my head to never forget. I am trying but I have already realized things I had forgotten but didn't want to. I am already missing these years with all my kids home and young. I really hope I enjoy them to the fullest.

Grandpa is teaching Zea how to play nicely with a dog. This is their dog, Lily. She is so kind and gentle with the boys. Good thing or Zea would have been bitten for sure by now. I think he thought she was a stuffed animal that moved and he could kick or hit her without it hurting her. He is much better but it was a hard lesson to sink in for him when we first arrived here.

Brett has volunteered to help around the house while he is looking for a job. Here he is building shelves for his parent in the garage. I guess since we are not paying rent we won't charge them. ;0)

The boys were playing outside while Brett worked on the garage. They LOVE the rocks but they are learning that they have to put them back where they got them because they are not just randomly there...it is part of the landscape...they are getting it.

Wii time!

2008-11-06T15:00:00.000-08:00

It has become quick the popluar family activity to play the Wii that Brett got for graduation. It really has been a blast because everyone can play together. In fact, don't tell Brett I told you but it has happened a couple of time that we has been beat by his 3 or 4 year old son...and he was really trying. ;0)

Baby Nathan update

2008-11-06T14:44:00.000-08:00

Hangin' out with Grandpa.

Here are some cute Pictures of our little man. He is growing up so fast. He has those huge blue eyes that just melt you and a smile that is completely contagious. We sure love him & wish you all could see him growing with us.

Transportation upstairs while doing laundry. He didn't seem to mind. :0)

Hanging out with Grandma in the garage while Dad built shelves & his brothers played.

His first haircut...yes, I finally cut the baby mullet off.

His cousin Zack. Two of the three Clayton boys that were born within a month of each other. At Christmas we can get one with Collin (number three) in it also.

Viva Las Vegas

2008-11-03T15:30:00.000-08:00

Taft wanted to hold Nathan in the hotel room at the airport where we stayed the night before we left. Well, Maureen (Brett's mother), me & the boys stayed there. Brett & his dad were already on their second day on the road...thank goodness I didn't have to go with him.

Our last flight out of Philly (as residents at least). It was quite the adjustment to land & see no trees (but palm trees), open view, & especially the sun hitting us right in the eye (I haven't had that for a long time...too many trees in Philly). I felt quite homesick driving to his parents house but after a nice prayer that night, getting my husband back, & time we are doing well & starting to feel at home again. We still miss the people though...that can't be replaced. What a great time in our lives that we will ALWAYS cherish!!!!

Saying good-bye...it stinks!

2008-11-03T15:23:00.000-08:00

The Cassell's (Melissa, Helen & Jim...we missed Chris & grandma Helen).
Our last day in Philly we checked out and hung out at Melissa's house until it was time to return the rental care. It was fun to be with everyone but sad also. We miss you all so much (including all the people that are not in these pictures of my last couple days).

The last run

2008-11-03T15:20:00.000-08:00

This was my last run in Philly...it still makes me want to cry to say that. We missed you Megan. I will forever miss those runs & you ladies. You have meant so much to me and so have our (sometimes rediculously) early morning runs. Thanks for being such great friends & being patient with my asthmetic self. ;0)

Zea's 3rd birthday & datenight

2008-11-03T15:12:00.000-08:00

It was our turn for date-night & it was Zea's birthday, so we combined the two. We had a fun bar-b-que with their friends and our neighbors. We miss you all & our date-nights!

You just have got to love those MASSIVE costco cupcakes.

Our Philly baby (love the Eagles jersey) with our Philly neighbors, the Cassell's, we miss you guys!

Good girlfriends!

2008-11-03T15:07:00.000-08:00

We (Jordan, Melissa & I) took what we thought was my last trip to see Tamar in the hospital (except that she ended up delivering Kyle and I went and saw her again...no complaints though). I love you ladies!!!

Amy called me and told me that she wanted to get a pedicure and didn't want to go alone...darn...I HAD to go with her ;0) Thanks again lady for the cute purple toenails. I miss you.

Baltimore trip/Orioles ballgame

2008-11-03T14:46:00.000-08:00

Cute boys!! Brett's parents took us to Baltimore for a few days while they were there on business. We went to an Orioles game while we were there. Not the Phillies but it was a lot of fun. :0)

My wonderful in-laws.

I know...he is adorable! ;0)

My handsome husband!

2008-11-03T14:36:00.000-08:00

Nathan go pretty fussy, so, I walked around the ball park with him until he finally fell asleep.

Zea was cold...of course (at least one member of my family will feel right at home in Vegas) & Taft was either up to bat or dancing to the music. We all had a great time, though at the game.

The boys half of the hotel room. They gave us a suite. One side was our bed & bathroom, this was the otherside, seperated by a small wall and a entertainment center with a T.V. facing each way. I think this was the boys favorite part of the trip. They just ran in circles around the wall/TV & watch cartoons. We all truly enjoyed the break before we had to hit the packing thing hard.

Boatride through the bay with Grandpa, Dad & Mom.

Where the boys slept. They had a blast!

Last day of school...ever & Graduation!

2008-11-03T14:29:00.000-08:00

I couldn't flip this picture but here is Brett leaving for his last day of school...ever. We were pretty excited and sang our "smarty pants" song for him before he left (the boys & I always sang that song to him before he left for exams...it's from "Between the Lions" if you don't know what I am talking about).

I know...I look pretty hot! What can I say...first thing in the morning & I just got back from running...nice!

Watching graduation...don't you just love the spiky hair!

Way to go, honey! We are so proud of you.

Emma's party & fun at the park

2008-11-03T14:24:00.000-08:00

Emma Griffitts birthday at the park. Like how Zea is eyeing those cupcakes!

The water was turned on & I forgot to bring suits. The boys just played their shorts/diaper until Zea got sick of that also and was streaking it for a bit (until I realized what had happened that is). I will not be posting those pictures but it was pretty funny. We miss you all!!!

Downtime at home in Philly

2008-11-03T14:19:00.000-08:00

Our beautiful Nathan sucking his hand.

Brothers "reading" to each other.

Playing with Dad.

Just being Taft...man I love this kid!

Our last family trip...New York!

2008-11-03T14:05:00.000-08:00

We decided that we had to see the Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island before we left the east coast. So, we bought tickets for our only Saturday without a thousand things to do, left at about 4:30am and went to New York. I am so glad we did! I think this made my 9th or 10th trip to New York in my 2 1/2 years in Philly & I have loved them all. I will really miss this city of energy. On my first visit I was not sure what all the hype was about but by the time I left that day I was feeling the excitement, culture, activity...energy of the city and loved visiting it whenever I could.

Our ferry ride to Manhattan from Staten Island. It was cold but the boys were enjoying the outside.

Until it got too cold for Zea and we went inside. ;0)

I thought this was a great picture, not only of the Statue of Liberty but of my cute boys!

Sorry about this picture...I couldn't figure out how to save the changes made to this section of pictures on my computer.

2008-11-03T13:41:00.000-08:00

The view from the ferry leaving Liberty Island for Ellis Island...majestic...what that view would be like after months on a boat, giving up all you had to come to this new country and finally arriving and seeing this! What we take for granted now...

One whipped out little man!

We are now on Ellis Island. These are examples of what luggage was brought with them & some very touching pictures of actual people/families that came here at one time.

This is Taft standing in the middle of the main hall people would sit for hours (at times days) for their names to be documented & recieve the papers & go ahead to enter the United States.

More fun in New York...trip continued

2008-11-03T13:33:00.000-08:00

That was the ferry we took behind us. After we were done seeing thing the boys enjoyed running around in the water.

Yeah...family picture. I think you could tell we were all pretty tired by this time. :0)

Yummy popsicles from an ice cream truck on the in New York. A great end to the day!

Our ferry ride back to Staten Island to head home (of course we had to stop at "White Castle" to get our ghetto cheeseburgers one last time). I will forever remember & charish my trips to New York & especially taking the ferry back to Staten Island & seeing the beautiful skyline...I will always look forward to seeing that again.

A day with boys

2008-11-03T13:21:00.000-08:00

I am usually a slow-melting popsicle fan but all I had left in my freezer at the time were fudgesicles...not like they were complaining but they made for a fun mess to clean up. Oh well, they enjoyed them & I got a cute picture. They are only kids once...I really should let them get dirty more often.

We had the Johnson boys & Lincoln come over one day to play with the boys while I was packing. It was fun. Then when it was time to go Jordan had to pin Brannon down to put on his shoes (a fairly regular occurrence). I had to get a picture because (although I am sure she gets sick of it) I love watching her put her shoes on him. She really is the funniest mom & perfect for those boys.

2008-11-03T13:15:00.000-08:00

For my 31st birthday we decided to go and get slurpee's from 7/11 since I am not a huge fan of cake. It was fun & good. Man, do I miss that green grass & trees.

Here was the ward pioneer day picnic. Not a biggest turn out but it was fun. The kids had a blast eating watermelon & all the junk food they wanted (less people means more for them...they weren't complaining).

Good buddies...we miss you guys!

Our neighbor Jim

2008-07-23T12:01:00.001-07:00

Jim is the boys favorite person to play with outside. He is married to an awesome lady, Helen, has 2 children (Chris & Melissa) & works seasonally, so, he has been able to be around to play with the boys in the mornings & they LOVE it. Honestly, it was my salvation towards the end of my pregnancy. I couldn't really play with them (especially outside...too hot!) & they were getting restless. We would walk out to say good-bye to Brett or get he mail...something and if they say Jim that was it. He would soon be out playing games with them & entertaining them for quite a while. He took out his hockey gear in the first two pictures to teach them how to play.

Here, they were playing cops & then a duck hunt (or something). They would put their "guns" down, walk away, Jim would make the sound of a buzzer & they would run for their guns and shot at something in the sky. It is so fun to watch them. The other day I couldn't see Taft (the rule is they stay in front of the house), I walked out and he was down at Jim's ringing the doorbell & knocking. I told him to come home and he kept yelling back at me, "I want to play with Jim." His wife, Helen, & I joke about Jim being their favorite playmate but it is true. Jim keeps telling me how much he is going to miss the boys. We will truly, truly miss wonderful neighbors like them as well. They are a wonderful family.

A deer in our yard!

2008-07-23T11:27:00.000-07:00

How cool is this!!! We were playing in our living room when Taft said, "there's a deer ourside". I wasn't sure what he was talking about until I looked out the window and saw it. I am pretty sure that is not something we will see in Las Vegas.;0) There are not a lot of places where that would happen. Brett walked out one morning for school and looked eye to eye with a 4 point buck. I could do without the crazy wild cats that go to the bathroom on my lawn all the time, but this is pretty cool. And yes, the boys are sitting on a 4 wheeler in the living room. A doctor Brett is working with gave it to us (his children have out grown it) but it needs 2 new batteries that cost $40 each, so, we will probably be getting rid of it. Until then, the boys really enjoy pretending. I spent the whole first day setting the timer so they could take turns on it.

Sleeping on the floor

2008-07-23T11:16:00.000-07:00

I am not sure why we buy beds!? Taft just loves to sleep in the floor (when I let him...he doesn't sleep as well no matter what he thinks). With Brett working late on Tuesday's & Thursdays bedtime has lost a bit of its routine those days. Last week Brett was gone ALL day Tuesday, Wednesday, & Thursday. I couldn't sing or lay down with them any of those nights, so, I offered to trade me for sleeping on the floor...it was the easiest bedtime yet (alone that is); I will have to remember that. I do miss laying down with the boys each night...someday we'll get that down again, as for now, I will enjoy it when I can & negotiate when I need to. :0)

Our little man is growing

2008-07-23T11:06:00.000-07:00

These are just a few snap shots of Nathan over the past 6 weeks and his growing. Not a huge difference to some but he really has grown a lot. He smiles a lot now & even makes cooing noises (mainly to Brett). We just love him and feel so blessed to have him, as well as Taft & Zea, in our home.

Race Day

2008-07-23T10:56:00.000-07:00

A good friend of mine, Jordan Johnson, put together a race for the kids one night. They even had numbers for each of them (left over from a race her husband helped to run). They had a great time. Taft got second in his race and had to learn that you can't always get first & to congratulate those who beat you (good lesson to learn...I was impressed he got second). Zea...well, after the race started and he was behind a number of people he just stopped and cried. We will have to work on that sportsmanship as well. He may be our distance runner because before the race started he ran around the whole track at least once. Pretty far for those little legs. They were so cute and everyone had fun. They even had a race for the parents. Brett was in his work clothes (more importantly...shoes). I tried but got left in the dust (it was 3 weeks after Nathan was born). I will have to work on that. :0) These are the boys with their friends. The first is Jordan's boys, Colin (Taft's age) & Brannon (Zea's age). Then it is Tamar's girls (our neighbors), Emma (oldest) & Abby (between Taft & Zea). They have a lot of fun with all the kids here. We are blessed to have such great friends. By the way, Emma won first.

Our Clayton Boys

2008-07-23T10:53:00.000-07:00

Zea came in one morning while Nathan was asleep and just laid next to him. Taft soon followed. I just thought it was a cute picture of the boys. They are great brothers. They absolutely love Nathan. Zea thinks everything he does is funny and Taft loves to get right in his face and talk to him (something we are trying to teach him to do with a bit more distance). :0)

I sure love having these boys.

Taft's Graduation...a little late...I know!

2008-07-06T12:30:00.000-07:00

With everything else that has happened, I am sorry to say that I never got to post Taft's preschool graduation (which happened the end of May), so, here you are. He did a great job this year and learned a lot (thanks Jamie). He loved going and we LOVED watching all the kids sing and say there parts at the graduation. After a very emotional & unsure decision to put him in (nothing to do with Jamie, just not having him at home with me for that time) I am so glad that we did. He has grown a lot in so many ways this year & I know he had a great time. We are very proud of the wonderful little man that he is (& has always been).

A rocky start to life

2008-07-06T11:39:00.000-07:00

Right after Nathan was born the doctors discovered that he had some testicular problems. They called in a Urologist to check him out (as he was possible going to have to go in for surgery immediately). We were very blessed to have the Chief Urologist, Dr. Figueroa, from Dupont Hospital in Delaware on call that day. He was the greatest doctor I have ever had to deal with. He was very kind, thorough, knowledgeable, & considerate. He told us that there was nothing to be done about that problem at the moment, that he was still to swollen in that area to know enough to make any decisions at the moment. He wanted to see us at his office that Thursday. Well, we went Thursday and that problem seemed fine enough but he also had a mild hernia, and his hydro-seal was not closing. We decided to go in for surgery that next day. Nathan had 4 procedures done in that area (good thing he won't remember or isn't trying to crawl around right now). The first picture is Nathan putting his surgical gown on (it was the smallest they had...so cute & sad at the same time). The next picture is him in recovery. The last is Dr. Figueroa on the left & the resident on the right (probably could have guessed that but you never know).Everything went very smoothly. Because of how young he was I had to stay overnight in the hospital with him to make sure he didn't stop breathing from having to go under for the surgery. He was fine, the hospital was great (it made me grateful that this was the only reason we were there...so many children with much more serious and permanent problems at that children's hospital). After the okay from Dr. Figueroa & his resident the next day we were off. Brett & the boys came and picked us up (there is a huge playground there...works great for bribery to be good), so, we let them play for a while after we were discharged. He is great now & had his check-up this last Wednesday. He is fine and is already growing a lot. We have no doubt that part of the reason we are out here was for this...to be surrounded by so many wonderful hospitals (specifically children's hospitals) in one area. Were else to does one get the choice of 2 of the nation's top hospitals along with the option of a couple other great ones. Thanks again to everyone for the concern & prayers and for those who provided meals & especially those who watched Taft & Zea through all of this. It has meant so much to our family!

Nathan Paul Clayton

2008-07-06T11:22:00.001-07:00

Okay, so, after 9 months (to the day...born ON his due date) our beautiful little boy (#3) is here! He was born on June 6th (6/7/08...pretty easy to remember) at 10:01am. He weighed 7lbs. 12 oz. & was just over 20 inches long. He has Brett's mouth but other than that I have no idea who he looks like, except he looks like one of our babies (they seem to look rather similar coming out and then they get more distinctive features later). He does look more like Taft than Zea did & Brett says that he looks more like my side of the family (which Taft does), so, we'll see. All I know is he is pretty cute & we are thrilled to have him here and be the proud parents of 3 adorable boys!!! Isn't he gorgeous!! Nathan (from the very beginning) likes to stick out his tongue. Here is his proud father doing it right back to him...I thought it was pretty cute.

Update

2008-05-19T17:00:00.000-07:00

Okay, so, I am a believer in having pictures with each blog entry but we just got our new camera & haven't learned how to down load the pictures. Of course, as soon as I get up to date with my blog & think I have it going well something happens (like replacing our camera).
So, here is a quick update. Brett just finished his summative exam today (the hardest exam he will probably ever take & his last one before the boards). He doesn't know his grade yet but we both feel very peaceful about it. He has studied and worked very hard & I know that he will be blessed for his efforts. I am so grateful to have married such a great man!
Also, I am due in less than 3 weeks (crazy, huh). My due date is June 7th. I am not one to go early, so, time will tell. I am at least progressing; according to my doctor appointment today. We will keep you informed.
The boys are still great & we are excited to get the camera thing figured out to send pictures of what they have been up to.
Hope everyone is well.

1st day in Philly with cousins

2008-04-28T06:53:00.000-07:00

My sister, Julie, her husband, Mike, & their kids, Maddie, Michael & Hailey are out visiting right now from California. Between their trip to New York & D.C. we have had a ton of fun with them here in Philly.

Their first day here we took a bus downtown & enjoyed Independence Hall area & Reading Termial. Besides hanging out with his cousins Taft's "favorite" part of the day was pulling the cord on the bus to let them know when we needed to stop. It was a fun day but we were all pretty whipped out afterward (as you can tell from Zea bus trip home...out cold on Aunt Julie). We just love to have family out visiting. The boys keep coming up stairs & asking when they are going to get up each morning (3 hour time change). One morning Taft said he was going to wait and stood in front of the door for about 3 minutes (a long time for a 4 year old) until he realized it wasn't making them get up any faster and gave up (waiting but not asking). I am sure we will have more pictures when they get back from D.C. tonight & spend their last 2 days here.

Temple Trip with Griffitts & Borks

2008-04-28T06:23:00.000-07:00

We made another trip to the temple. The Griffitts & the Borks came also to switch off babysitting. The boys each have their own backpack with a leap pad in it for traveling. Zea loves to carry his (more than play it, I think). I thought he looked so cute walking with it on back to the house when we got home. After playing at the church next door & going to the temple we were all hungry & ready to go to Red Robin (Tamar's birthday request...which no one complained about) to eat.

She actually let them sing to her (because Emma wanted them to) & go her free sundae. The food was great & I thoroughly enjoyed the bottom-less fries :0). Thanks for a great day guys!

The highlight of babysitting had to be when we started to cover the kids in the balls (they thought this was so fun). Can't blame them; the idea of sand without the discomfort. ;0)

Phillies Game

2008-04-28T06:14:00.000-07:00

Thanks to the Ritter's a group of us were able to go to the Phillies/Cubs game together. We rode with the Millards (thanks for riding with us). We had a great time & the Phillies won. We tried

the "Crab fries"; they were good but nothing compared to "5 guys" which we just happened to have the weekend before. It was the PERFECT weather for a ball game & we thoroughly enjoyed the night out alone (thanks Dobson's for watching the boys).

Dinosaur Museum Pre-school Trip

2008-04-24T06:01:00.000-07:00

Taft's preschool took a trip to the Museum of Natural History. Zea & I were able to go as well. It was a lot of fun & the boys enjoyed it a lot. It was fun to hear them growling a lot and get so excited about all the animals (espcially the dinosaurs...of course).

Here is Zea & Taft "digging" for bones with one of their good buddies, Colin. I think the coolest part about the dig was the goggles & tools they got to use. The "dig" was a bit of a flop. They just scrapped rock (that didn't move) around fossils. I thought they would actually be able to dig us something, a bit disappointing but the rest of the place was cool; we just didn't last there very long.

I think one of the favorite things was being able to stand inside the mouth of a T-rex...pretty exciting & made for some fun pictures. They also had this hall of animals that were stuffed; like a polar bear, moose, carabou...that was a favorite part also. It is nice to be able to do something fun & educational with the boys. We had a good time.

Pirate Blanket from Grandma

2008-04-03T07:13:00.000-07:00

For Taft's birthday, Grandma Claudia sent him a Pirate quilt (thanks Grandma!!). He was so excited and loves it! So does Zea, as you can tell from the battle that took place soon after it was opened. Taft's a pretty good sharer but not that fast; I can't blame him & it is good for Zea to learn he can't have everything also.

Easter Sunday

2008-04-03T07:06:00.000-07:00

Of course, Easter started out with thier baskets & candy from the Easter bunny, which the boys loved but you could tell at church that they (& almost every other child) started out their morning that ways...oh well, that is holidays for you!

Thanks to Aunt Julie & Uncle Mike, the boys got a new book on CD, "Skippy John Jones in mummy trouble." They absolutely LOVE it and listen to it all the time. Taft even knows when to turn the page without a ding or something to tell him. I had to get a picture of the two of them listening to it. Plus, they looked so cute together & dressed for church...what good looking boys!!!
Then we went over to the Griffitt's for Easter dinner (none of us wanted to cook dinner for just out families, so, once again we split up the meal and made life a lot easier and dinner was great! Thanks everyone...it was a lot of fun!

Easter egg hunt

2008-04-03T06:58:00.000-07:00

A group of families got together and had an Easter egg hunt the Saturday before Easter at Houston Park (near out house...Thanks again, Angela!). It turned out to be a great day and the boys had a blast. The boys also got a picture with their good friend Lincoln & one with Dad controlling the amount of candy consumed at one time :0).

Saturday with Dad

2008-04-03T06:48:00.000-07:00

Last Saturday, Brett took the boys to Lowe's for their free projects for kids (it is SO great) while I got some shopping done, alone...so much easier :0). They made little miniature golf houses that came with a ball and a club (really cute). There is usually at least one friend that goes also each time we go, this week the Matson's came so they boys had fun with them. Then Brett took the boys to the pet store next door; another the boys LOVE to do with their dad; and let's face it...Brett loves pet stores; maybe someday I will be a little more keen on the idea of taking care of something else besides my children (& maybe a fish) but not yet. Until then, the pet store seems to keep them happy & they can look forward to having a dog when we move into Brett's parents house in Las Vegas.

Thank you Rita's

2008-04-03T06:43:00.000-07:00

We heard that Rita's gives out free Italian ice on the first day of spring (thanks Angela!!!), so, after dinner we thought we would try and I am so glad we did. It was a fun, spontaneous outing & it was really good. I couldn't believe how big they were. They are so good. They had a cake batter flavor that I just sampled out of curiosity and even that was good. I don't know how they get ice to taste so yummy! I should be getting paid for this kind of endorsement.

Taft's preschool birthday

2008-03-28T05:59:00.000-07:00

Taft had his birthday party at his preschool. Miss Jamie (his teacher) gave him a book & crown, then I had to bring a posterboard of pictures of him and a paper on the back about what he likes & facts about himself; many of which I didn't even know (or at least knew he knew about himself). Then I brought cupcakes at the end and passed them out to everyone in the class. He felt pretty special...I was glad!

If you are wondering, some of the things he said was: his favorite sport was basketball, he is good at video games (which is very true actually...he definately gets that from his dad), his favorite vacation is going to the beach (I had NO idea). I can't remember more now but I will update this when I get his poster back.

Taft's actual birthday

2008-03-28T05:44:00.000-07:00

We started out Taft's birthday opening his presents (notice the spiderman pajamas). Then we decided to go to the zoo together.

Taft is finally tall enough to go on this Safari ride at the zoo. You get into these jeeps things and drive through Africa looking at animals and taking pictures. He and Brett went on it together...he feels so cool becuase he can ride it now. He has also wanted to get his face painted for almost a year now. So, for his birthday we finally let him. Of course, it was spiderman he picked. :0) The kind of messed up on one eye but he didn't care and was acting like spiderman the rest of the day; as well as telling everyone we passed at the zoo who he was & how spiderman shoots his web. Then he wanted pancakes for dinner and wanted to go to a restaurant. So, IHOP here we come! The restaurant was basically empty, so, they boys had a good time dancing on the benches to the music and got all the attention of the host/waitress/manager for his spiderman face and birthday. They had this special meal because of the new movie "Horton hears a who". The had "who cakes" and a "who drink". Basically sugar bomb pancakes topped with frosting and a lollypop & a sprite with chuncks of blue & red jello in it. It was really fun & they were quite thrilled with their meal. At least we didin't have to fight them about eating this meal...no vegetables were included.

Taft's superhero party/datenight

2008-03-28T05:33:00.000-07:00

We have a datenight group each week, so we decided to just make that Taft's 4th birthday party. He wanted both girls and boys; & he wanted a superhero party. So, it became the superhero/princess party (superheroes need someone to save).It was a fun night. We had dinner (if you count hot dogs & mac-n-cheese), played pin the "S" on superman & save the princess (we hid a little Belle doll and timed the kids to go and find it upstairs), then we had cake & ice cream and watched the Bee movie until parents came back. I can't believe he is 4! Glad I have one more year before he starts school; I am not ready for that. Oh, and yes...the belly is getting much bigger.

Painting our squirrel feeders

2008-03-28T05:28:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago I took the boys to Lowe's (they do a free project a couple times a month). We built bird/squirrel feeders. Well, we finally got around to painting them & the boys loved it. It was a little hard not to step in and help them paint since they were using a ton of paint and it was all mixing together to become one very strange and unappealing color but I did show some self control and let them pain the whole thing. I am glad I did becasue it really doesn't matter and they LOVED their feeders when they were done.

Another snow day for the boys

2008-03-26T06:18:00.000-07:00

Just taking advantage of the snow while we can. This time it was followed by hot chocolate...got to love the Bishop store house hot chocolate!

Wicked in New York

2008-03-26T06:11:00.000-07:00

One thing that Brett & I still wanted to do was to go and see a Broadway play together before we leave. Considering I am having a baby in June and we are moving in September the window was getting smaller to go. I decided to surprise Brett, so, (with the help of Teresa with Ebay...Thanks again!) I got great tickets for a great price last minute (the beauty of living 2 hours away) and we went. It was a bit crazy of a day getting ready & getting the boys situated (I found out at midnight the night before we left that I won the tickets) but it was a WONDERFUL night and well worth every bit of money or stress. Plus, it was really fun to just be spontaneous again (something that I haven't been able to be for awhile). The seats were awesome the the musical...brilliant; my date was pretty hot also, which always helps!

Taft's first primary activity

2008-03-26T06:06:00.000-07:00

Taft had his very first primary activity (a pajama party). He was SO excited to go and continued to remind me the whole week before that he had to wear his pajamas. They had the kids play different games to represent the different steps to the Plan of Salvation (pre-earthly life, life on earth, death, spirit world, resurrection/judgement, Celestial kingdom). It was well done and they had a great time.

Dad's and doughnuts

2008-03-26T06:04:00.000-07:00

Taft's preschool had a "Dad's and doughnuts" night; where the Dad's get to come and see what they kids are up to at school. Taft (& Brett) we excited and had a great time together.

Snow Day with Dad

2008-03-26T05:59:00.000-07:00

The little snow we got this year was fun for the boys. Zea doesn't last very long before being cold gets the best of him but Taft will last forever out there. This was on a very little hill at our complex. Brett got home from the work and thought he should take advantage of the snow (since we most likely won't be seeing much of that next year in Las Vegas), so, he took the boys out for an hour or so and played. They had a great time.

A day at Chuck-E-Cheese

2008-01-14T12:25:00.000-08:00

When the boys do good things and help out/listen (our hardest thing) they get a star on their star charts. When it is filled we get to do something fun. This time it was Chuck-E-Cheese.

We all went together and had a great time. I even found some tokens that we had from before in our glove box so it ended up not costing us anything...bonus!!! Taft LOVES this snow mobile race, Zea loves to put tokens in the games and playing for a second. We had a great time together and (let's be honest) Brett and I love going there even without the boys, so, we had a great time playing as well.

Playing with presents!

2008-01-14T12:18:00.000-08:00

As well as many other wonderfu things, they boys got a tool bench and a boys dress up "treasure chest" with a couple of costumes in it that Grandma & Grandpa Clayton had sent. They had a blast all morning with them as well as their keyboard and electic guitar from "Santa".

Brett also had a BLAST with his remote control helicopter that was actually a bit difficult to control, even for him. Of course, having his break to practice he is much better at it now!

Christmas Eve dinner/Christmas morning

2008-01-14T12:03:00.000-08:00

I just love the moment they wake up and are excited but still asleep at the same time. Zea was a little bit confused but got the idea really quickly, where Taft was just a bit groggy but knew exactly what all of this meant. It didn't take long for them to both completely wake up and enjoy themselves. Our families sent us quite a bit this year, so, we had to keep the boys focused on unwrapping when they wanted to just playing with what they just got. We make everyone take turns and watch each other unwrap, so, it could have taken hours. It was funny to see them creeping closer and closer to the tree while Brett and I opened presents and they were waiting. They were really good about it all. It was a great time and fun to watch them. Thanks again for sending us stuff. Our lobster dinner that we thorougly enjoyed! The boys just got he noodle part but with how much they struggle to eat anything that is not highly processed meat or bread I wan't about to waste lobster. They did get the Marinelli's though, which they felt quick special about!

Nativity Night

2008-01-14T11:56:00.000-08:00

We group of us that stayed here for Christmas went over to our friends/neighbors, the Griffitts, to do a little re-inactment of the Christmas story the Sunday before Christmas. It was crowded but fun. As you can tell Zea, once again, didn't want to wear his costume (and wasn't getting candy out of it this time), so, it only lasted about 3 munitues. Taft, on the other hand, wore his shepard outfit most of the night.

continue of Christmas Village

2008-01-14T11:53:00.000-08:00

More pictures from Christmas Village (see next blog). Notice Zea was OUT in the stroller by this point, candycane still on his face and all!!

The Christmas Village

2008-01-14T11:38:00.000-08:00

We went to this place near Redding (about and hour away) called "Christmas Village". It is a large farm that they turned into this village. There were lights EVERYWHERE, Santa, a huge electric train display, food, shops, and a bunch of little sheds turned into different things like: stable for the reindeer, candy shop, elves toy factory, etc. I was happy to see that they also had a nativity display as well in one of the barns. It was fun and didn't cost much at all. It was really, really cold though. I was grateful that Banna had gone before and warned me to dress up in many layers.

The train set was amazing and Taft was in heaven. Zea had already crashed out in his stroller by this point but I think Taft could have stayed there and watched the trains for an hour...if we'd let him. We had a great time and suggest it for anyone who is here next year and wants a fun, quick, Christmas outing.

Temple day

2008-01-14T11:32:00.000-08:00

Brett was asked to help out at the temple once a month, so, we went down there with some friends of our for a day during break. It was a nice day and the boys enjoyed the visitor center (as usual). They had a display of Nativities from all over the world. It was pretty amazing to see. We just love the Washington, D.C. temple. It is so beautiful and I am so grateful they always have the church building open next door so we can switch off with friends and go more often. The boys do pretty well with the trip and look forward to walking around before we head home. I must say, though, it will be nice to be closer than 3 hours to a temple again. We got spoiled un Utah.

Taft at preschool

2008-01-14T11:25:00.000-08:00

Taft's preschool performed a Christmas song for the parents on day and the end of school, so, I was able to go and get a few pictures of him and his school. They had been good so they all got a treasure from the treasure box and then we heard them sing. I couldn't figure out how to get the song on here but it was really cute and Taft sung it ALL the time for a number of weeks. I liked it. It was called, "Christmas bells are ringing", I think...

Taft's snow day

2008-01-14T11:18:00.000-08:00

I decided to let Taft fore go the nap this day and enjoy the LITTLE bit of snow that was on the ground. He had so much fun running back and forth through the leaves and the attempt of a snow ball fight we had together. After he realized that his hands hurt because they were so cold (thanks to the cheap knit gloves he was wearing...smart mom!!) we thought hot chocolate was a GREAT idea. He is such a great fun boy!

Hersey Factory

2008-01-14T11:11:00.000-08:00

Christmas break had begun and we decided that we were going to try out the Hershey Factory. Brett and I went to the amusement park part of it for our anniversary but they have the factory part also where you can take tours. It was a freezing cold day, so, I was quite happy that is was indoors. We had a great time and it only took half of the day to do (with the 1 1/2 hour drive included). We ran into the Griffitts there also, which was fun and went on the tour ride twice, which the boys loved; although I am not sure if they like the ride or the free candy on your way out better...toss up!

Oops, i forgot halloween!!

2008-01-14T11:03:00.000-08:00

I forgot the halloween costumes. Taft really wanted to be Super "Y" (a new cartoon) but I couldn't get the outfit together in time, so, I was able to talk him into a knight and Zea was a dragon. Zea HATES wearing anything constricting (larger coats included...I guess he got something from his mother), so, the outfit didn't go over very well (lot's of tear involved) until he started to trick-or-treat and realized he would be getting candy out of it. He quickly changed his tune...smart boy! We just stuck around our complex this year and got PLENTY of candy...enough to still have some at Christmas time.

Turkey Day!

2007-12-04T08:33:00.000-08:00

Of course, Turkey Day had to start out with a Turkey Bowl! Brett and a group of guys in the area went to a local park and played football. The boys and I went to watch for the last hours or so. Besides Zea getting covered in filthy, sandy, mud it was a good time. Taft just loved to watch his daddy play football and I am excited for the day when they are all old enough to play together. They sure look up to their Dad...and with good reason!
Next, we went to the Sander house in Allentown, about an hour away. They used to be hour neighbors here but moved after he graduated from Temple dental school. They are great friends and Owen can make one seriously DELICIOUS turkey. I really don't remember ever having one that good in my life...sorry mom :0) but this was amazing. They are renting a 3 bedroom/3 story house, so, there was lots of running room for the children. They basement is one large playroom and so they spent most of their time down there.
It was very relaxing and great company. The Griffitts (other neighbors and friends) also came and Trevors dad, Steve, was in town and cam also. As well as the Coburns who moved to Allentown the same time as the Sanders. Thanks again everyone for a good time and great food.

The Rachel Ray Show

2007-12-04T08:16:00.000-08:00

While my mom was in town we went to see a taping Rachel Ray in New York. A friend of mine, Jamie Bohn, got tickets for us online and there was enough for my mom to go also. We were there for 5 hours but it was fun and worth it. We got a free cookbook...bonus. My niece, Hailey, in california is 5 and have loved Rachel Ray since she was 3. I was really wanting to get her autograph for her but the way it was all set up, we saw Rachel Ray but couldn't really talk to her. I had finally come to grips with the fact that I wouldn't be getting the autograph as we were the last ones to leave the studio that night. BUT as my mom was taking my picture outside underneath the canopy with the address on it I heard someone say, "Do you want me to stand in that picture with you?" I couldn't believe it! She was standing right there and I couldn't help but yell with excitment about how badly I had wanted to get an autograph for my neice and had given up on it. Well, she signed a magazine for my niece, and the cookbooks that both my mom and I got. I know she was so exhausted and it meant so much to me to get that for my niece that I had to thank her a number of times and then as we were walking back toward the studio about 5 minutes later (we had gone the wrong direcction) i asked her bodyguard to thank her again. i just don't think there are too many "stars" who would have made that kind of effort after a long day, when we didn't even know she was there to begin with. Maybe she just thought i was so pathetic standing underneath the address. :0) Either way, she was sincerely nice and i was very happy to see that it wasn't just an image.

I was tagged

2007-12-04T06:47:00.000-08:00

Okay, so forever ago I was "tagged". I have been so behind in my blog pages (& didn't know what to write) so I have waited until now to do it.
Here are the rules:
1. Each person list 6 facts/habits about themselves.
2. At the end of the post, the player tags 6 people and posts their names, and then goes to their blog and leaves them a comment, letting them know they have been tagged and asking them to read your blog for the rules.

okay, my 6 things about myself:
1. For anyone who doesn't know by now...I am pregnant. I am due June 7th or 9th (I have heard both); I think I will just say the 8th. What most don't know is that the crazy thing in the Claytons family is that I have 2 other sister-in-laws (Jennifer & Jaidi) due that same month. Busy month for that side of the family...but it will be fun.
2. I HATE to read instructions and I am not good at it. I think I take after my Grandpa Stout (moms dad) in that he was an engineer and like to just look at things and create what he needed. I am not as creative but I can look at something and figure it out better than trying to read how to do it...it usually just confuses me and I feel like it is a waste of time. Even in school, I would do great with whatever was discussed in class but if I had to read something...help!!! I actually throw my anantomy book across the room once because it made no sense to me at all. I am very much a hands on kind of person and am not bad at it either. Brett on the other hand...drives him crazy that I won't read things. He will actually read an entire manuel to something just to know all about it...I am glad one of us will...I will just leave that up to him. I have to go to him to figure out how to work my watch all the time because HE read the manuel for MY watch. Thank goodness for him!
3. I was a bit of a cowgirl in high school. I wore the belt buckle and everything. I raised 2 pigs for FFA and really, really wanted to be a barrell racer. My neighbor (if you could call it that...they lived a mile down the road) had horses and would let me ride. I even set up barrells once and tried. I also tried team roping; it was fun but I like barrell racing better.
4. For someone who eats just about everything...I don't like cake. Of course I will eat it, but I would choose just about any other dessert first. If I do eat it, I like it after it has sat in the fridge for a while and is cold. I seems to make it less fluffy. I really don't like frosting so that doesn't help with the whole cake thing either. I always had angel food cake for my birthdays (that isn't REAL cake) so I love that or ice cream cake...but the real deal...I would rather have pie. I don't understand when cake became the birthday thing...too bad!
5. I dream to be a professional dancer. Dream in the sense that I know it will never happen but when I go and watch groups perform...my heart hurts to do what they are doing. I am not so great anymore but I was not a bad dancer, once. I just never had the training, so, I couldn't do the harder moves. I really think had I had the training I could have done it and that is why I struggle watching other people so much. I still love to go but I just want to run up there and perform with them. Oh well, it is too late now...most dancers retire by my age but at least I have a husband who is willing to learn country dance with me (if we ever find a place or the time) and that should at least help me still be able to dance what I am good at and can do.
6. I guess for the last one I would say that I get a spiritual feeling in/at 2 unique places. I feel a spirtual feeling when I am around patriotic thing (the flag, songs, events, history) I get chocked up about it at times (I know this is not that unusual...at least in my family) but thats one. The strange one is whenever I go to a library. It is almost a spritual peace and excitment to learn. I get this overwhelming desire to sit and read every book in the whole place. This may not seen that weird for people who have always loved books and to read but considering that I was not a reader growing up at all (I used the same book, which I never read, as my reading log for 3 years in high school; I only watched the movie and asked my friend who read the book what was in the book and not the movie). So, for me, it was strange to have such a spiritual and emotional drive to gain knowledge through books. This does not include instruction manuels or boring text books...I still hate those!
Okay, there you have it. Hope it wasn't too boring.
Now I tag...
Tara Jones-http://bradandtara.blogspot.com/
Natalie Tolley-http://meandmavie.blogspot.com/
Natalie Cherry-http://verrycherry.blogspot.com/
Aileen Taylor-http://tysonandaileen.blogspot.com/
Megan Bork-http://nmborkfamily.blogspot.com/
Jaidi Clayton-http://www.lubbockclaytons.blogspot.com/

Glorious Gettysburg

2007-11-18T07:30:00.000-08:00

It was quite impossible to catch the beauty and magnitude of Gettysburg on film. There are numerous battlefields, monuments, & landmarks. You truly have to just go there to take it all in. We didn't expect it to be as big as it was and didn't give ourselves enough time (it is, at least, and ALL day event) so, a lot of our pictures were too dark anyhow. This picture at least helps to see one field and its beautiful colors and mass.

We took the audio/CD tour in our car. It was very well done. They boys ended up being the car, practially, all day but did GREAT! They really are little troopers; I was proud of them. Although it did help that Grandma was in the car with them. They just love her!

Our family picture was taken on "Little Round Top". I wish so badly that I could have a picture of how absolutely beautiful this stop was. And then to think of the determination, faith, and courage that took place at the spot on that day just magnifies its glory. What an amazing experience to be there. I thank God for the men who fought that day & everyday for our freedom and the life we now enjoy in this GREAT country! These are the experiences I will miss when we leave in August but always be grateful for. What a blessing it has been to live here for a while. Glad we still have 9 more months!!

Grandma Claudia came to town!!

2007-11-18T07:26:00.000-08:00

The same night I got home from New York my mom flew in to visit. They boys were so excited (as was I) to have her here. The loved coming down each morning and finding her there. She stayed for a week and we went to Gettysburg & New York (just mom & I went there). Those are in future blogs.

Mary Poppins New York Trip

2007-11-18T07:02:00.000-08:00

Originally, a group of girls were going to go to the Rachel Ray show on Nov. 7th. A small group bought tickets to also go see a broadway show. The Rachel Ray show got changed to the 14th but those of us with broadway tickets still had to go on the 7th, so, we made a day of it. It was Tamar, Alyssa, Robyn and I that went for the full day (thanks again for driving, Tamar). Our first stop was for me, a "white castle" cheeseburger in Staten Island. Apparently, White Castle is an east coast thing, really cheap & tiny cheeseburger that have been around for a while and open all time. I first heard of them when I was a teenager and listened to Beastie Boys. Kim this was for you! After making our way to New York with a few subway detours (we got confused in direction) we ate lunch in Greenwich Village at John's pizza. It was really good and I was able to make one of my favorite stops across the street at this wonderful italian bakery, Roccos, as well.

After a day of walking, subway rides, and eating (we also had dinner at a cart on broadway that sold very good gyros) we made it to Mary Poppins. Teri joined us there. It was very well done and we all had a great time. It was quite a bit different from the movie but I liked the changes. It made the morals of the story much more clear and meaningful. I am so glad that I was able to finally see a broadway play and spend a girls day away with some wonderful friends. We didn't get home until 2:30am and took a couple of days to recoup but it was well worth it. Thanks again for the great day ladies!!!

Kite flying in Valley Forge

2007-11-17T21:11:00.000-08:00

We went kite flying at Valley Forge for a family outing. It was the perfect day and a great excuse to use our awesome kites again. We have a dragon and an airplane we got last spring from Costco; one of our best purchases! We really love the fall (especially out here with all of the colors in the trees) and really wanted to get out to see Valley Forge before the leaves fall. It was truly beautiful and we had a great time together. Taft did really well flying the kite all by himself and was pretty excited. Zea needed some assistance but still felt pretty special. They are such great boys, we have truly been blessed!

Halloween

2007-11-17T21:02:00.000-08:00

This was Halloween night. Taft had already dressed up three times (preschool, ward halloween party, & a playgroup party at a friends house) but we had yet to get Zea to wear his whole costume until this night. He freaked out everytime; he hates having thick clothings on (anything restricting). He had a fit when we first put it on (thus the crying in our family picture) but once he realized that he was going to get candy out of it and all he had to do was go to a door and ask he was in & had a great time. Taft really wanted to be "Super why" from the new cartoon "Super Readers" but I just didn't have the time to make it so I talked him into being the night the will fight the dragon (his brother). It was a fun night and we have yet to eat all of the candy. I couldn't believe how much candy they got just in our complex. Of course, the suckers where the first things they went for.

First day of preschool

2007-11-17T20:57:00.000-08:00

Okay, so before the pumpkin patch was Taft's first day of preschool. He started in september and (in spite of what he looks like in the picture) he was really excited. A friend of mine, Jamie Bohn, in our ward was a kindergarten teacher and now teaches preschool in her basement. She does a great job and Taft really loves it. I just wish I could get more out of hime when he gets home but I guess that is going to be my life with boys...little details. I will keep trying.

A Day at the Pumpkin patch

2007-11-17T20:51:00.000-08:00

Taft's preschool class went to the pumpkin patch for a field trip. Hosea and I got to go with them. It was a lot of fun and we had a good time inspite of the rain. In fact, it was pouring so hard at one point that they had to close the corn maze and slide and we all went into the store/ice cream shop. Just walking through the parking lot we got so drenched that we were soaked through our sweatshirts and jeans. Tamar and I had to strip the kids down to diapers/underwear and cover them in a blanket for the ride home. What a blast!

A muddy day with the Griffitts

2007-08-27T14:21:00.000-07:00

Taft, Zea, Emma & Abby (Griffitts) found a mud puddle that was created from their day in the sprinklers & really enjoyed themselves. I was pretty funny & I had fun hosing them down. They were pretty excited for their "slow melting" popsicles (that's right mom's, look in the freezers in your stores, it says "slow melting" and they really are; not sure how it works and not sure I want to but it does; I am now okay with giving them popsicles even when they are not in swimsuits). :0)

Girls Camp

2007-08-27T13:56:00.000-07:00

I went to girls camp this year for the second half on the week. It was so much fun & I really loved getting to know our girls more. They are so great, especially, considering how hard the areas are where they live. I feel blessed to have been able to be there for some pretty spiritual and special moments with them. I was exhausted when I got home but had a great time. Yeah, Logan ward girls...I love you!
This is Quany, Mimi, Kira, me and Vernisha (who I was introduced to as "Winky").

This is Megan Long, she is in another ward in the stake. We were counslors together over the second years (with 2 other ladies). We hit it off right away; she is so great! Don't worry we were eating a chocolate cake!

One of our girls, Vanessa, braided my hair the day we were leaving. I just wanted it out of my face but she went way beyond the call of duty and gave me cornrows. Taft thought it was pretty funny when he saw me. I wish I had a picture of what it looked like when I took it out...now that was funny...it was all over the place!

Our 5th anniversary

2007-08-27T12:44:00.000-07:00

For our 5th anniversary Brett took us to Hersey Park (a water & amusement park). I was in charge of finding babysitting for the day (thank you again Dobson's and Barnhust's) so we were able to spend the day alone and go on any & all the rides we wanted to. Brett debated between the romantic vs. fun anniversary and decided that we need to have some serious fun together more than the other and he was right (as usual) :0).

We had so much fun and were completely whipped out afterward. We have always loved roller coaster rides but I was surprised how weak my stomach has become since I have been pregnant (No, I am not expecting, I just mean since I have had children my stomach has not been the same). Not to worry though, a little food and the time in line and I was good to go again. ;0)

I also turned 30, 6 days before, but we didn't do a whole lot (by my choice) so we don't have any pictures but it was a very nice and relaxing birthday. I was excited to be 30 until my knee and hamstring started to have problems and was taking forever to heal but I am fine with it now. I think it helps to be married to a younger and such a handsome man! ;0)
I mean just look at him...how can you be old next to someone so great! And let's be honest here, he is the more mature and grounded one on the family. :0) It has been a wonderful 5 years and I am excited for the innumerable ones to come.

Another family trip

2007-08-27T12:10:00.000-07:00

So, our family went on a vacation to see the Hill Cumorah pagent in PALMYRA, NY (which was pretty cool, actually; especially because they only have one week to work with all of the actors). I have always wanted to see NIAGRA FALLS, also, and it was only another 2 hours past Palmyra, so, we decided to go there also. We had so much fun and it is truly a beautiful place to be (the Canadian side is much prettier but if you never went there the American side would still be quite breath-taking). I think I got a little excited with our pictures on our boat tour because I think the water that got on our camera fried out memory drive so we no longer have any pictures of the pagent or of Niagra Falls :0( so, sad! We did, however, get a couple of pictures of HARMONY, PA.(I believe it is now called Oakland) on our way home (where Joseph Smith lived when he and Oliver Cowdry were baptized and recieved the Priesthood. This is a picture of the water edge behind where his house once stood (no one knows exactly where he was baptized but there is a little area where the water pools that looked like the place I would choose so that is what I took the picture of.
This is a picture of me and the boys standing on the base of the orginal foundation (or what is left of it) of the house that Emma and Joseph lived in at the time. There really is such an amazing spirit to walk at the same places that the early saints walked and stand near place where such amazing miracles occured. We really have been blessed to see so much since we have lived here in Philly.
Below is a picture of the original tombstone that was laid for the baby that Joseph and Emma lost when they lived here. Both of Emma's parents were barried there also. The church has taken the originals and placed them on the back of new tombstone that are nicer (easier to see and read).
The originals for the Emma's parent (the Hale's) look very similar to this one.

Gettysburg Reenactment

2007-07-16T12:12:00.000-07:00

We went to the Gettysburg reenactment this year to celebrate our Fourth of July as a family (we went on the 7th, close enough...right). It was a neat experience and (minus the heat and lack of shade) we really enjoyed ourselves. it wasn't on the actually Gettysburg historical site but a feild they rented off a farmer nearby. I was bummed at first because I thought I would see everything there when we went but as I thought about it, I am glad they do it this way as I think it would take away from the experience and sanctity of the actually site; plus, I wouldn't want to experience the actually site with a crowd as big as this one was. I guess we will just have to go back another time...darn! ;0) There was a nice breeze while we were there which helped with the heat but we still went through 8 bottles of water, 2 lemonades and a rootbeer and got quite burnt, inspite of the sunblock. Thank goodness Tamar loaned us her double stroller, the boys were fine; hot but not burnt. Despite what it sounds like we really enjoyed ourselves and are so happy that we were able to experience this.

Our Fourth of July

2007-07-16T11:55:00.000-07:00

Brett had to work in the E.R. on the 4th, so, the boys and I just hung out together. We went to a parade in the morning near our house (very small parade) but they boys had fun (mainly because they were throwing out candy to everyone) and enjoyed themselves. That is until the fire trucks started to make noise and then he didn't like it...one time he went to get some candy they had thrown in the street and an fire engine honked at him, I am sure he didn't mean to but, it scared Taft so bad that he didn't even try to get candy for awhile. It was pretty sad, okay, and funny.

We got to the parade early so we bought some dough- nuts, which they thoroughly enjoyed eating, and ran around until it started. It was a good fun to do this withe the boys but we really missed Dad; it's not the same without him. It rained the afternoon and evening so we didn't even get to do the fireworks when dad got home (which Taft would've been happy to hear had he known we were going to do them...he just really, really doesn't like loud noises; Zea on the other hand could care less, go figure).

Pool Day

2007-07-16T11:43:00.000-07:00

We decided to finally use our pool outfront on one of these crazy, humid, hot days. The boys had a blast. With how hot it has been we haven't gone outside as much. Hopefully, someday, we'll have a backyard with a fence so I can just send them out whenever they want and not have to be out there with them the whole time. For a little while I can handle but they would be outside all day if I didn't have my limits with the heat. :0)
Zea, getting ready to go into the pool, thought he had found himself quite the stylish hat for the occasion.

Taft's new sheets

2007-07-16T11:36:00.000-07:00

Grandma & Grandpa Clayton sent Taft a set of Lightning McQueen sheets along with a sider-man car and a clifford car for Zea. Needless to say, Taft has be thrilled for his new sheets and so has Zea, quite frankly. They both love playing on the bed (whenever they are not being washed). I wish getting them to sleep on them was just as easy! :)
thanks Grandma & Grandpa

Taft's broken collarbone

2007-06-25T08:51:00.000-07:00

My first of many (so I hear) Emergency Room visits for broken bones. Taft fell down our stairs and broke his right collarbone. It is so sad but you must admit that little sling is pretty darn cute, not to mention the boy! He is doing fine and being a good sport; in fact, if i didn't see the x-rays I may not believe it was broken. We give him motrin when it hurts and do our best to keep the sling on. He has to wear it for 2-6 weeks. They say at this age he should heal very quickly but it will be at least 2. We take him to a doctor in a week to see how it is healing. This was a crazy way to end a busy week.

Family Temple Trip

2007-06-25T08:27:00.000-07:00

We went to the Washington, D.C. temple together as a family. It was wonderful and the boys really enjoyed walking around and going to the visitor center where they saw the statue of Christ and listened to the recording. It was a nice opportunity to talk to the boys and make some sweet memories with them. At two different times Taft told Brett and I that "Jesus loves Him"; it was worth the whole trip for that. I hope he will always feel that! I am so grateful that Christ has made it possible for our family to be together forever. I hope and pray I can live up to my part of that gift.

Brett's White Coat Ceremony

2007-06-25T08:01:00.001-07:00

This was Brett's White Coat Ceremony (when they have finished classes and are about to start rotations they get "coated" by a faculty member. The bottom picture is him waiting for his turn. The top picture was the clearest picture I was able to get of my handsome man; he is waiting outside the room for it to start. Our camera battery died right before it ended, so, someone else got a picture of our family that I will hopefully be able to add later. He has worked so hard. We are so proud of him and excited for this next step, okay, excited and nervous.

Brett's Birthday

2007-06-25T07:54:00.000-07:00

Here are my 3 cute guys waiting to open Brett's birthday presents. Aren't they great?!

After Brett finished his last exam for classes (only rotation exams now, yeah!) we went, alone, to the cheescake factory (thanks Tamar & Holly for watching our boys). We had a great time and especially enjoyed our dessert (although the food is pretty good, too).