The Reay Reay's

Mouse ears

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

Way back in October we took a family vacation (minus Lo) to Disneyland as well as Mexico. It was the perfect way to kick off our move back to Utah. We spent a couple of days in California then went to Rosarito, Mexico for 4 days. Porter enjoyed every minute and we as his parents enjoyed watching his excitement and amazement at everything from the ocean, to the people, the little creatures, the food, all that there is to take in at Disneyland for a 4 year old seeing something so magical for the first time. It was for sure something to be remembered for always.

My favorite moment of our days spent at Disneyland. It doesn't get much better than wearing your first set of mouse ears.

Yes, I dragged everyone onto It's a small world. I had to relive my childhood memory for at least those 10 minutes ... or however long that ride is.

Porter and his BEST friend Harper. We made a family affair out of it and went with my sister Lacey, her husband Curt, and their son Harp. What better way to see and soak in all that Disneyland has to offer than with those closest to you.

He was a bit pooped out by the end of our first day. We took him back to the hotel to catch some zzzz's then headed back that evening for Disneyland's trick or treating. That was my favorite part of our trip. Just in general we chose to go the very first week of October and it wasn't crowded at all, but on this night so many people were occupied with trick or treating so we took advantage and walked on practically every ride. Sean was obsessed (to say the least) with Star Tours. I usually prefer Space Mountain, but they had redone it for Halloween which quite honestly made it scary. After we got off of it Porter's first words out his mouth were "I don't want to go on that ride again. That was just scary." The Matterhorn was a good replacement and became mine and Porter's favorite ride. He went on it so many times that he knew exactly when the goats were coming around the corner, as well as the abominable snowman.

This would have been our Christmas card if little Lois and our niece Swayzie had joined us. I opted out of that as her mother to pushing a stroller or packing around a bound to be tired toddler all day. She will get her turn in a couple of years and when she does we will spoil her just as we did her brother.

Lois Lee is now 19 months. She is quite the girly girl. Without her chap stick, jewelry, baby, purse, and toothbrush this little thing would be lost. I am most positive that if I could go back to when I was her age I was acting exactly like her ... and I adore it!

2011 Halloween Porter chose our family costume theme to be Sesame Street. Lois went as Elmo, Porter as Cookie Monster, Sean as Super Grover, and me as Big Bird. His decision making was solely his own and he couldn't have assigned us our characters any better. We love this kid.

Although I do have to admit that if I ever have to sew a yellow feather again in this lifetime I may just have a nervous breakdown. I love ya Big Bird, but never again!

'Till we meet again .... after Christmas I am sure.

Make it last

2011-10-26T15:43:00.000-07:00

I am a little over due on blogging. Sorry. I am hoping that these family pictures we had taken by Alyssia Newton Baird will make up for my slacking. This was such a fun night we spent together up beautiful Hobblecreek Canyon. I love Fall!!! Man oh man how I missed out on this season last year. I love the sights and smells that Fall brings. Alyssia captured our family so well. We will cherish those pictures forever.

Utah welcomes back the Reays

2011-09-12T12:29:00.000-07:00

We had been getting ready to move for quite sometime but still had a lot to do up until the day before Sean's graduation. While Sean was gone on his last field training I finished packing up our house. Lois was into all of the boxes putting stuff in and pulling stuff out, so in hopes to keep her somewhat occupied I made her a cardboard play house. Truth be told she liked decorating it with the markers most. After that she was over it and finding the next mess she could make. Packing with a 16 month old and no other adults proved to be quite challenging ... I can only wish I don't have to do it again.

It got to the point of me not being able to keep her out of every thing all day. She enjoyed destroying things while her mommy was busy packing up our apartment.Class 101020 graduation
Even a soldier in uniform can't deny their sweet little children.
Sean accepting his Bio Medical Equipment Technician certificate.

3/4 of our family ... minus one four year old.
Us with Mike and Erin Schomisch, some of our best friends in San Antonio.
We stopped in Lubbock, Texas and were lucky enough to visit with Weston. He is doing very well on his mission. He has touched so many people's hearts while serving our Lord.
Lois did so well the entire 1,259 miles home. She stayed busy eating....
watching movies...
and sleeping. With her blanket over her head of course.
Celebrating our move back to Utah with fireworks.

Porter's first day of school. Don't the parents always have a harder time accepting this? I am already freaking out knowing that he will be in kindergarten next year. Until then I will continue to call him my baby ... or until he tells me to stop. Which may be sooner than I had hoped, because while I was walking him into school he turned to me and said "Mom, you don't need to go in with me. I can go by myself." Talk about a kick in the stomach. Then I couldn't help but laugh and be happy for my growing boy.

Porter and his teacher Mrs. Staheli.
Growing up my family had a tradition on the first day of school. When me and my sisters would get home my mom would always have a box of doughnuts waiting for us on the counter. We have now passed this tradition onto our family. Porter was so excited to see a huge pink doughnut waiting for him ... yes I said pink. The kid loves that dang color. (sigh)
On Labor Day we went hiking up to Stewart Falls with Sean's family. It was a day full of fun surrounded by good family.

We are enjoying our time together now. Sean will be deploying to Afghanistan this coming May. He will be gone for 1 year at which time me and the kids will stay in Utah with family. After he gets back we will follow what path The Lord has laid out for our family. This Army life is a crazy one, but I wouldn't ask for anything different. I love my little family.

Time to cherish

2011-08-15T12:25:00.002-07:00

Oh how I love my children!!! Oh how I miss my Poyoy. He stayed behind in Utah with our families until we get back there after Sean's graduation on the 24th of August. He is having a blast and for sure getting spoiled, so I am certain that it has been harder on me and Sean than it has been for him. Lois has been a delight these past couple of weeks. She thinks she can get away with everything being the only kid in the house. After arriving home from the airport she went directly to Porter's room and got into all of his toys that she otherwise wouldn't be allowed to touch by Porter. He is really good and sharing with her, but he does have his favorite things and he keeps Lois' hands off of them. They will be happy to be reunited in less than two weeks!!! Holy moly where did this past year go??? I remember moving here and thinking that 12 months could not possibly come soon enough. Now I am catching myself wishing we had just a little bit more time so that we could do everything we want to here in Texas. Who knows where we will go from here, but as long as we have each other we can go anywhere and love it.

Ever since me and Lois returned back to Texas our house has not been in it's usual clean state. Sean kept it so neat and tidy while we were in Utah, but I warned him that for our last few weeks here I was not going to waste my time scrubbing and cleaning only to turn around and be making more messes with packing and dejunking. It probably has bothered him more than me, but if you ask me I am oddly enough content taking it one day at a time, packing a little here and there, having memorable phone calls with Porter, and soaking up all of mine and Lois' time together. There is not enough time in this life to be wasted worrying about all of the little things. It is time to focus on the big picture and appreciate life for what it is.

Porter got his first stitches last week. He tripped while at JcPenny's and cut his forehead open on a display table. My mom and sister Lacey are amazing!!! They took care of Porter so well. Comforting him and entertaining him during the entire ordeal. As a parent and being 1300 miles away I felt awful and helpless. Though it was just stitches and I know that it could have been much worse than it was I wanted to be there at his side. To be the one holding him and letting him cry on my shoulder. He had a lot of people caring for him through out the day of whom I am so grateful for. Thank you.

What would the 24th of July be without the Gorge?

2011-08-04T14:47:00.000-07:00

Our buddy boys are back together and keeping busy every moment.

Who wouldn't want to kiss those lips???

It was such a beautiful night out at Flaming Gorge.

Oh Squeezy!!!

Sometime during the day Porter and Jaycie decided that they were getting married. They put together the rock decorations, the aisle, seating, found their neatest camping clothes and handed out handmade invitations to each of us adults. After all of that they were set to begin this entertaining event.

However... once they started Porter had a change of heart. When asked if he takes Jaycie to be his wife his answer was "But I don't."

Aaaaand he was off!!!!

The very shocked bride.

Porter's cousins dragged him back to the alter and forced them to hug and make up.

Later that night I saw Jaycie and Porter floating. I asked them what they were doing and just so innocently my little boy replied "We are just going on our honeymaker." Now do not ask me how or why he knows what happens after a wedding, but it was so cute and very entertaining to watch them all play so well together. We ended the party with one of Grandpa Wing's roaring fires and marshmallows.

Porter did have a few "Dennis the menace" moments while flinging his flaming marshmallow back and forth to put out the fire.

Lois' first piggy tails. They are mighty small, but mighty cute!!!

Our castaway

We dig dig dig dig dig dig dig from early morn till night.

They both loved the fishing although we didn't catch anything.

Our navigator Lois Lee Reay.

Trying to sneak a bite of the foam key chain with out anybody noticing ... her plan failed.

On our tube ride Lois fell asleep almost immediately, Porter thought papa couldn't go fast enough and I basked in utter delight.

Fishing with their papa and nanny.

Lois' naps were very scarce and not at all on a schedule, but she did manage to find rest on the boat rides.

We love our babies!!!

Who needs clothes and shoes??? Not this little lady.

Three muskrats perfectly happy and perfectly messy.

Porter's nap time was usually on our boat ride back to camp.

Till we meet again Grandma Audrey

2011-08-04T12:35:00.000-07:00

Lois Audrey King Jackson

Lois Audrey King Jackson 1935 ~ 2011 On July 18th we bid a
heartfelt farewell to a special lady. She bravely faced the
insidious challenges of A.L.S. (Lou Gehrig's Disease) for almost
a year. She died at home with family near. Audrey was born
on April 25, 1935 in Murray, Utah the 8th child of Thomas and
Mabel King. Eventually her family settled in Mesa, Arizona
where she spent most of her growing up years. She attended
Brigham Young University where she met and married her
husband, Edward William Jackson. A few months after their
wedding in the Mesa, Arizona temple, they moved to
Washington, D.C. where William completed his degree at George
Washington Medical School. After medical school, Audrey,
Bill and their three young children relocated to Southern
California. Three more children followed and they spent the
next 25 years raising their family in the beautiful Ojai Valley.
During this time Audrey opened her home and became mother
to children from Afghanistan, the Navajo Nation, Bolivia,
the Philippines, Australia and the United States. Being around
family and friends was one of Audrey's greatest joys. Movie night
with popcorn and milkshakes was a family favorite! Audrey was
deeply committed toThe Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day
Saints. She served in many ward/stake callings. From 1986-1989,
Audrey served as mission "mom" to over 600 missionaries in the
Manila, Philippines Mission. Few could pull off such an
assignment with equal flare and enthusiasm. Over the last
few weeks, she has been so happy to receive loving messages
from her missionaries representing every corner of the world.
Shortly after her mission Audrey moved to Provo and was
quickly put to work leading the Young Women and then Relief
Society organizations in her ward. Audrey absolutely loved
music and the joy and inspiration it provided to others. For
six years she was honored to conduct music at the M.T.C.
and spent over twenty years performing with Medical Melodies
dancing and singing at rest homes throughout the county.
Her spark for life was truly contagious. Together with her
husband, she helped establish the Deseret International
Foundation. For the past 25 years Deseret has performed
over 300,000 charitable surgeries throughout the world for
the lame, the blind, and the disfigured. Always willing to
travel wherever the need was greatest, Audrey successfully
made temporary homes in such places as Algeria, Ghana,
Honduras, Kenya and Afghanistan. She was not only an angel
of mercy to thousands, but she was the "heart" of the foundation.
Her caring for others was sincere and personal. Thousands
honor her name and look to her as a role model. Audrey is
survived by her husband of 56 years and her six children:
William King Jackson (Ann) - New Delhi, India;
Laura Lee Reay (Kelly) - Springville, Utah;
Karen Johnson (Greg) - Provo, Utah;
Pamela Johnsen (Jeff) - Ojai, California;
Douglas Fell Jackson (Sharon) - Provo, Utah;
Bret Weston Jackson (Rebekah) - Beijing, China.
She is also survived by 30 grandchildren, eight
great-grandchildren and her sisters Norma Atwood (John)
& Dorothy Pace.
AND WHEN SHE PASSED I THINK THERE WENT A SOUL
TO YONDER FIRMAMENT SO WHITE, SO SPLENDID AND
SO FINE IT CAME COMPLETE TO GOD'S DESIGN.
EDGAR GUEST
Funeral Services will be held Saturday, July 23, 2011 at
12:00 noon at the Hobble Creek Stake Center: 495 S. Canyon Rd,
Springville, Utah. A visitation will be held prior to the service at
10:00 a.m. to 11:45 a.m. at the same location. Interment at
Provo City Cemetery.
Donations to Deseret International Foundation,
1282 E Cambridge Ct. Provo, Utah 84604
(www. desint.org)
Online condolences may be given at www.premierfuneral.com.

Knock knock guess who's there

2011-07-18T17:31:00.000-07:00

I have the best husband in the world. No doubt about it. For my birthday he surprised me and flew my mom to San Antonio for 9 days!!! Wow the minute I saw her at my front door I started planning out our time together and thought we had plenty. Man was I wrong. Isn't it just so befuddling how time can fly by so fast when you don't want it to, and when you really are looking forward to something it seems like it takes forever to arrive? I hope that she enjoyed her stay with us. I know that for me it was fantastic and I appreciate Sean for giving me that gift this year. It was just what I needed.

Lois warmed right up to Nanny. She was my mom's permanent shadow.

We went down to the Alamo so that my mom could fit in amongst the other tourists.

Sean's purchase at a mexican market.

They are both growing so stinking fast.

Witte Museum. Porter especially liked the H E B tree house area for children.

I love my mom!!!

Just rocking it out.

Swimming at Fort Sam Houston.

A night out on the town with these two crazies.

We had to take her to the Tower of the Americas. It was a great night full of great memories.

Sean and Porter had their real capes this time around.

The morning of my birthday we had sprinkles on our breakfast. Lois and Porter may or may not have eaten the sprinkles by the spoonful.

Man how we have missed this!!!

Our day was spent at Morgan's Wonderland. Porter was in absolute HEAVEN. No doubt about it. He is such a creative little boy and his imagination ran wild at this park.

Oh what??? You don't have a shoe phone??? Only the cool kids do.

This made me smile. He came up to me with his cowboy hat on and his pants pulled up over his belly button. It reminded me of my Grandpa Glazier whom I love dearly.

Then he lowered his pants quite a bit as you can see ... to be used as his utility belt.

She is such a little girl in so many ways. She melts everyone's hearts with one look. She loves to get dressed, put on jewelry and has found my make up. I love that she put her necklaces on as if they were bandoliers.

I've said it once and I'll say it again. I love my mom!!!

Day out shopping and watching Winnie the Pooh, which they both sat through quietly. It was a cute movie.

Our last morning together before taking Nanny to the airport. We hesitated packing up her belongings for as long as we could. Instead we ate cheesecake for breakfast, played dress up and lounged around.

I chose Cheesecake Factory for my birthday dinner. It was, as usual most delicious!!! Once Lois decided that she was done eating she tried to feed us the rest of her food. Mmmmm no complaints here.

Sometimes you feel like a nut

2011-07-08T00:02:00.000-07:00

We have less than 50 days left here in San Antonio and I have a feeling that they are going to fly right past us. Next thing we know we will be back in Utah with all of our loved ones. Porter and Lois are doing very well. Porter has enjoyed being able to go swimming almost everyday here at our apartment complex or on post. It is so stinking HOT here and the humidity is getting worse as it gets further into the Summer. It seems every time we go to the store he finds something that he has just got to own, so we got him a responsibility chart hoping to help him understand the value of work and being polite. Which in the long end will earn him whatever toy he would like. He is now registered for preschool back in Utah. We have him going to The Hobblecreek Learning Center three days a week and he could not be more excited! Today I told him all about school and who his teacher will be. Throughout the remainder of the day he kept on saying to me "Mrs. Staywee (Staheli) is my teacher and she will be here any minute." I am so proud of Porter and the child that he is. I know that they are going to love having him in their school. Lois is almost 15 months old and is as beautiful as ever. She is into everything all day long and truly never holds still unless she is asleep or in her car seat. She loves following Porter around and mimicking what he does. She adores her Daddy and always runs to greet him at the door when he gets home. Her new word is "uh-oh" which she repeats over and over and over again. Whenever we go to the pool she will stay entertained by the water for a good 30 or so minutes but the rest of the time she is either charming the pants off of someone or scavenging for food. I pack a small pantry to take with us swimming, because I know she prefers eating over anything else.

Gotta love her curly little locks.

Sean's Fathers day gifts decorated by Porter. He is such a stud. He wrote the words all by himself and then drew our family, a bird, and two monsters from the movie Godzilla on the other gift.

Porter is our free lance photographer. Here are a few pieces of his recent work.

Our COUNTDOWN CHAIN!!! I kinda think it is better than a Christmas chain.

Ringling Brothers & Barnum and Bailey Circus came to San Antonio last weekend so naturally we took Porter. Can anyone guess what his favorite part was???

This elephant was the sweetest thing. Her name is Kelly Anne and she was singing Happy Birthday to celebrate the Witte Museum's birthday.

Best Friends for sure.

Kelly Anne painting a picture of the audience. What amazing creatures elephants are.

I know that this was mine and Sean's favorite part. There were 7 motorcycles going in that sphere. It was so neat to watch. Porter was a little worried that they were going to crash into each other but I continually reassured him that they are very very good at what they do.

Summer haze

2011-06-18T17:12:00.000-07:00

Summer is officially here, although with us being in Texas it has felt like Summer since February and now it is just way too HOT. Sean starts block 10 on Monday which means we only have 67 more days until graduation. At which point we are planning on being all packed up and ready to make the long drive back to Utah the day after his graduation. As much as I want to BE in Utah, actually GETTING there may be a different story. I have so much gratitude for my Heavenly Father that he blessed Sean with this opportunity and the skill necesarry to accomplish this course. That me and the kids have been here with him experiencing new things and meeting new people. Most of all for us to grow stronger as a family and appreciate all the love that we share.

She has him wrapped around her little finger ... as it should be.

Porter felt inspired after swim lessons one day to create a view of the ocean and all of his favorite creatures that live there. Sean bought the documentary LIFE knowing that Porter would absolutely love watching it. He was introduced to flying fish and as you can see he added several to his picture.

He loved his swim instructor Miss Amanda.

He did so well this summer with his lessons. In the past we have done mommy and me courses which in my opinion never went as well as I had hoped for. He is getting so grown up and independent, which he loves of course. I appreciated Miss Amanda for teaching him the things that he otherwise wouldn't have listened to me long enough to learn the basics of swimming on his own.

Watching her big brother swim.

"1,2,3 Go...."

Every day he would dive to the bottom of the pool and come up with the same toy. This pink squid. Almost 80% of the time if Porter has a choice on a color PINK is it.

She doesn't get to enjoy nice green grass all that often seeing as how Texas' is bug infested and or dead. Really she didn't quite know how to react to sitting and standing in it.

A night spent downtown at the River Walk.

Tower of the Americas. Man it was surely windy but what a pretty view of San Antonio and we all had a great time.

My Supermen.

Shaking his money maker. He has quite the dance moves and most of them I have no clue where he picked them up, but either way he enjoyed dancing and we enjoyed watching.
After a very long night on the town Loee just wanted to kick back and relax. Only moments after this photo was taken she passed out into a deep deep sleep, which to my advantage lasted until 10am this morning.

Reay kids are the coolest

2011-05-31T11:10:00.000-07:00

Our time here in San Antonio is quickly drawing to an end. Sean graduates as a BMET at the end of August so far our plans are from that point we will pack up here and head to Utah. There are a couple of plans that we have set in motion but until something is concrete back to Utah it will be. Porter and Lois are doing great! Porter still amazes me everyday with his creative mind. He starts swim lessons next week which he is very excited for. He has always been a fish when it comes to water. Lois is now 13 months. She is walking, she loves to eat eat eat, she says a handful of words, and has become very good at copycatting her big brother and giving dirty looks ... which are always followed by batting her eyelashes and smiling at you. Porter is more than ecstatic to know we soon will see all of our loved ones. Not a day goes by that he doesn't ask if he can fly on a big airplane back to Utah. He has new friends here from church and also from Army, but he still misses everyone who has been engraved in his memory.

His puppet boy and mommy

I tell ya ... that girl can eaaaaaat! You would never know it by the looks of her. She is such a little peanut.

I came into Lois' room to find that Porter had poured her toy bins into her crib. They both thought it was the neatest thing ever. Good thing that she loves to clean up messes so I had my trusty sidekick to help me with that.

Porter doing what he does best ... CREATE.

She is into everything. Every cupboard, drawer, basket. Nothing in our home has gone untouched by the wrath of Lois.

It warms my heart to know that they love eachother so innocently and unconditionally.

Yes, my favorite jammies for the two of them are oversized tee shirts. It reminds me of my childhood.

That is the most epic dance move EVER Porter Hugh Reay!!! I am so glad that I caught those two moves on camera.

Shaking her groove thang! Our babies love to dance. Everyday it seems at some point I am asked to turn on the music so they can dance. For sure good times!

Of course pretending to be an elephant.

A Tuesday at home

2011-05-10T14:38:00.000-07:00

Look who's 4!!!

2011-05-04T16:52:00.000-07:00

Yesterday we celebrated Porter's 4th birthday! I know, can you believe it? I am still kind of stressing out over the fact that I have a 4 year old, which means that I am getting up there in age myself. Porter loves all eyes on him, so having one day dedicated to him and him alone sure made him ecstatic.

What a couple of cuties ... +1 dog

French toast with sprinkles. It's all about the wow factor on your birthday, right? Not nutrition.

We have been here since September and I just got Porter's bed refinished and assembled. Hey Happy Birthday Porter you now officially have an actual bed, not a mattress resting on the floor! Don't mind my procrastinating.

I always have a helper in the kitchen.

We all know that this is the best part of baking. Someone has got to see if it tastes good.

Nooooo not spoiled at all!!!

Confetti poppers...

Too loud for you Lois?

Now he can payback his uncles and dad for the many attacks that he endured over the years.

His #1 present ... that he has not put down since he opened it.

I think Lois reacted the same way when she opened her baby doll on her birthday :)

My failed attempt at making an elephant ... we just added another dachshund to the family.

Mmmm chocolate orange blossom cake.

Who needs silverware?

She didn't quite succeed in getting as dirty as she did on her birthday, but came close. Either way she went right into the bathtub when she was finished.

Just a bunch of elephants. If he could be any animal I positive that his first choice would be an elephant.

Bubbles fix everything.

Wearing his Godzilla jammies from Grandpa and Grandma Jackson. Godzilla slept with him lastnight it is his new protector to keep away the scary nightmares that he has been suffering from lately.

We love San Antonio Zoo.

Talking to the koi.

Hip hip hop anonymous

Yes, to all of you who are wondering if that is a leash backpack on my son's back. I remember being at Disneyland when I was younger and making fun of those mom's who had their toddlers on leashes. Now I can proudly say I AM ONE OF THOSE MOMS. And yes, I did hear people snicker at the sight of a little boy on a leash.

Porter thought he was pretty cool with this bird on his arm. He kept yelling at the other kids to be quiet so that they didn't scare his bird away.

Loee was much more timid of the birds. She would not let me put her down.

Hanging with the sloth.

Making out with Porter's monkey leash.

The zoo concluded our birthday festivities. Sean wasn't able to spend the day with us, so we will have to make up for it this weekend. There are plenty of fun things to do in this HUGE city.

You had a birthday shout hooray!!!

2011-04-21T19:39:00.000-07:00

Our sweet baby Lois turned One today!!! Seems like just yesterday I was beached on that hospital bed while I chowed down on ice chips and hallucinated off of my epidural. Her first year on earth has been a delight. She is just precious and such a fun little lady to have in our family.

Porter and I woke her up this morning to the lovely sounds of us singing her "Happy Birthday" she was a bit dazed at first, as you can see. (Family ... doesn't she look like Sienna?)

Once she got a grip and was awake enough to comprehend what was going on she was all smiles and screams of excitement from there on out.

We are soo lucky!!!

I just couldn't help myself, I had to give Porter a candle on his pop tart as well.

After the kiddos finished their breakfast of champions, Porter helped me make Lois's cupcakes.

Strawberry banana and chocolate cupcakes. This was the first year that we have not ordered a sheet cake large enough to feed a small army. It was weird not having all of our family and friends to celebrate with, but being able to share her special day between just us 4 was perfection.

I'm One!!!

Lois really enjoyed opening her presents. As well as trying to gobble up any paper or ribbon in the process.

Her gift from Porter. He picked out this mermaid just for her (Although we all know he has alterior motives to steal it in hopes that we won't notice.)

Saying hello to her new baby doll.

Loee loves to be rocked while I sing lullabys to her. When I saw her pick up that baby and starting rocking it back and forth it made me want to cry. It was definitely a moment that I have longed for when I first knew we were expecting a girl. As a child I was such a girly girl. I had barbies and babies of many sorts. I always handled them gently and tried to keep them looking as brand new as the day they came out of their box. Who is to say that Lois may or may not be as I was, but one thing is for sure ... she doesn't have to do much to make my heart smile.

Sesame Street is one of the two shows that she has a slight interest in, so this Cookie Monster was only fitting to give her.

I see more Sean in her looks than I do myself. No complaints here, my husband is very easy on the eyes.

The famous diaper baby endulging in their first birthday cake.

Yep, we just let her loose on the dining table. She scooted across it and spun in circles in between bites. Every once in awhile she would look up at us as if to say "You guys really are allowing me to be up here and make this mess?"

Perfect end to a perfect day. Clean, lotioned, worn out babies.

To the Beach

2011-04-18T09:23:00.000-07:00

Over the weekend we drove down to Corpus Christi to camp on the beach. It was a nice, short getaway from San Antonio. The kids loved being there and playing in the sand and ocean. I loved not having a care in the world and not being that dang apartment. Sean loved his clear mind and not being at Fort Sam Houston and the dogs loved practicing their hunting skills. He hiked those dunes until it got too dark to see.

Lois thought she was so grown up, being able to just sit in her own chair. Wow she truly is BIG she turns 1 year old this Thursday!!!

Our attack Dachshunds. Ruby and Mini ran along the beach for hours perfectly content chasing the birds. Ruby was really good about swimming back and forth from the ocean to the shore, although her backend tends to drag. She is sooo long. Mini on the other hand, she is special and didn't enjoy swimming quite as much.

Once Sean showed Porter how to make a sand castle he worked on his own little creation until we made him come in up to camp.

They are best friends. He loves to play with her and to torment her. She loves just being near Porter. Following him around and trying to do what he does.

Playing with her shadow.

Porter was right at home being there. He is such a fish.

I think that a quarter of the beach ended up in Lois's mouth.

Building their sand castles

Aren't couch forts the BEST

2011-04-11T10:20:00.001-07:00

I know that our family thinks so!!! Friday we spent the night inside tearing the house apart, building couch forts, and sleeping in the tent on the kitchen floor. If you ask me it was the perfect way to spend our evening together.

Typical choice of toys ... toothbrush and dog collar. Don't judge me.

Ruby is our "killer" dog. Both kids anticipating her attack :)

Little tykes

2011-04-05T09:01:00.000-07:00

Porter is at the age where he wants to help cook and bake. Although he may not eat it afterwards he sure does enjoy making the food. This bowl of "delicious goodness" started out as applesauce, which he then added banana bread, raisins and canteloupe to. Much to say he played with it, but never ate one bite.

She will eat anything edible or non edible that she can get her hands on. We bought a canteloupe and she ate the entire thing all by herself, leaving none for us to enjoy. Which is fine with me. I will take a baby who eats well and enjoys variety. Porter never was that kind of child ... and still isn't.

Porter seriously has one of the best imaginations that I have seen a kid have. He is so curious and once you introduce him to something new he holds onto it and finds ways to incorporate each and every thing into his playtime. Here he is in his zoo that he made. He is being a caribou, which soon went to a cheetah, and then an armadillo. He loves all animals but those of you who know him best will know that his most favorite is the ELEPHANT. He probably has 10 toy elephants and is always asking for more.

Enjoying our afternoons spent together at home.

My favorite little boy in the entire universe!!!

Lois loves the telephone. She will find anything and put it up to her ear to talk into.

Even in Texas we manage to find the carnivals that we love sooo much. We took the kids to Poteet for the Strawberry Festival. It was a fun HOT day and Porter had a ball riding some of the rides.

It was SOOO blazing hot!!! The kids got ice cream to cool themselves down a bit.

How could we not give into that face and let her indulge in some homemade strawberry ice cream?

She is into EVERYTHING and ANYTHING that she can get her hands on. What a busy little body she has become and along with that comes trying to walk. She took her first step on Sean's 28th birthday. What a special present for her daddy! Soon we will be celebrating her 1st birthday and Porter's 4th. Wow our kids are growing soo fast and time is flying by. Eachday is a reminder just how precious this life is and that we should cherish every moment we have together.

Sean starts block 7 tomorrow in his BMET training, so only 5 more blocks to go until he graduates all 11 blocks. Biomedical Equipment Technician is ranked in the top 5 hardest courses that the military offers. It is very stressful and ALOT of hardwork and studying is put into it. Please keep him in your prayers. He is home long enough to eat dinner, say goodnight to the kids and then go to bed himself. We really only have some Saturday's and most Sunday's spent together, but we will take what we can get. Texas has become our home and we are enjoying this experience that we are so lucky to have. Who knows where we will go from here, but one thing is for sure. We have eachother and we know that The Lord will continue to bless our family if we are faithful and put our trust in him. We LOVE you all and will see most of you soon.

Blessed

2011-03-10T12:16:00.000-08:00

My heart is full of gratitude today. As I was reading my scriptures this morning I came across this one in particular. Isn't it funny how the perfect things come to you when you need them most. I know that the Lord has a hand in everything that happens in my life day by day and today I am grateful that he has given me inspiration and understanding. I love my Heavenly Father and his beautiful work and glory. I love my family and I love each one of you.
D&C 46:32 "And ye must give thanks unto God in the Spirit for whatsoever blessing ye are blessed with."

2011-02-24T12:17:00.000-08:00

Our family is back together again. Me and the children returned to San Antonio at the end of January. It was bittersweet coming back. I hated to leave Utah since that is truly our home and everyone whom we love is there, but Sean was here and we needed to get back to him. Me and the kids missed Daddy. He is doing well with his BMet training. He just hit the 5 month mark so only 7 more months to go then he will graduate and we will embark on our next journey. Whatever that may be. The kids are doing well and are right back into the swing of things. Porter is now a Sunbeam holy cow, I know!!! Where in the world did time go? He will be turning 4 soon. This year me, Sean, and Lois will be the only ones here to celebrate both her 1st birthday and Porter's 4th but we are starting the planning now so that we can make sure we make their days extra special for each of them. Lo is growing like a weed. She has kind of lost interest in her binky. Yay for me! It will only be that much easier to take it away when I feel like the time is right. We give her a sippy cup once a day just to introduce her to it, I am hoping to have her off of her bottle as close to 12 months as possible. She is getting strong enough to stand up by herself and balance for 5 or so seconds before falling over. She walks well with the help of other's holding her hands so we went and bought her a baby walker. We will see how long until she is up and walking all by herself. I feel like there are times where I am trying to make her grow up too fast, but she seems ready for it all so I am just enjoying watching her progress so well. No matter what she will always be my Baby Lo. I may be calling her that clear into her teenage years cuz I think it is so darling and fits her so well. We love you all and hope that everything is going as great for you as it is for us.

A night to remember

2011-01-27T21:08:00.000-08:00

Tonight was a special night. We were sad that Sean was not able to be here with us in person, but over the telephone to celebrate the wonderful and inspirational life his Grandma Jackson has lived. We love her soo much. She and Bill are such examples to us all and I pray that I may possess the kind of strength, light, faith and joy that she fills the world with each day. WE LOVE YOU GRANDMA AUDREY!!!

Porter and Lois

2011-01-24T09:20:00.000-08:00

Here are a few pictures that I took of the kids on a bright and cheery Sunday afternoon.
Enjoy!!!

Grandma Jackson

2011-01-13T15:33:00.000-08:00

I just want to let you know
You mean the world to me

Only a heart as dear as yours
Would give so unselfishly

The many things you've done
All the times you were there
Help me know deep down inside
How much you really care

Even though I might not say
I appreciate all you do
Richly blessed is how I feel
Having a grandmother just like you

Everything my grandma does
is something special made with love.
She takes time to add the extra touch
that says, "I love you very much."

She fixes hurts with a kiss and smile
and tells good stories grandma-style.
It's warm and cozy on her lap
for secret telling or a nap.

And when I say my prayers at night
I ask God to bless and hold her tight.
Cause when it comes to giving hugs
my grandma's arms are filled with love!

Grandmas are for stories
about things of long ago.

Grandmas are for caring
about all this things you know.

Grandmas are for rocking you
and singing you to sleep.

Grandmas are for giving you
nice memories to keep.

Grandmas are for knowing
all the things you're dreaming of...
But, the most important thing of all,

Grandmas are for love.

There's simply no one else on earth
Who's as fortunate as me
For, I have the most special grandma
That this world shall ever see!

HOME is where MY HEART IS

2011-01-03T16:23:00.000-08:00

This Christmas was a lot of fun. Being able to travel back to Utah was such a blessing. The drive took us about 23 hours. There were a few moments where I thought I might open the door and jump out. The thought of being stranded on the side of the road, rather than in the car with a teething ornery baby and an obnoxious 3 year old was kind of a pretty picture that popped into my head a few times. Although when we entered Utah I realized just how worth it that drive was. I miss the mountains soo much, Texas is FLAT. The kids were lots of fun with all of the holiday activities we did. Here they are on Christmas Eve in thier jammies from Daddy and Mommy.

We went caroling with Sean's family. Laura had these funny little hats for Porter and Lo to wear. Porter has learned a few jingles and continues to sing them to this day. His favorite songs are "Rudolph the reindeer nose", "Frosty the snowman was a jolly frosty snow", and the one that he seems to sing all day long is " Jingle bells, jingle bells, jingle all the way oh one to slide one to sleigh." Totally wrong words, but it is so cute how he belts them out at the most random times.

She loved caroling she was bouncing and kicking her legs the entire night.

Porter had a blast this Christmas and got way too spoiled. But he appreciates everything he got. Everytime he would open up a gift he would say "Oh baby what is it?!?!" Santa brought him a lot. Some of it being Superhero squad figurines and a Leapster2. He now has no need to constantly drain the batteries on mine and Sean's phones by playing games. His Leapster keeps him plenty occupied. Lo of course loved the wrapping paper and ribbons more than anything she got, but it was so fun watching her look around in such amusement at all of her presents. Sean unfortunetely had to leave on the 30th to drive back to Texas. Me and the kids are staying in Utah for an extra month. Here is Porter and Lo on New Years Eve. A night spent with the family, always a good way to say good bye to the past year and hello to what may come.

I love my baby girl. She has gotten 6 new teeth since we left Texas. A big whopping total of 8. It is no wonder why she has been such a fuss for the past little while. She is pulling herself up to furniture and walking from couch to couch. She loves to wave and clap. What a happy baby girl we have, and she fills our lives with light.

What a difference a day makes

2010-12-06T11:08:00.001-08:00

Literally the day after I did my latest post Lo started crawling and has her two top teeth coming through now. She is actually crawling around the house instead of dragging herself. Man oh man how these past few days have been a bummer at the Reay household. She has been so fussy and miserable this time around. When her first two teeth came through we had no idea that she was even teething cuz she acted normal and as happy as always. Now she can't quit rubbing her tongue against her gums, she is producing enough drool to fill a vat, has had on and off fevers, always wants to be held, and she is NOT sleeping. Poor little baby, I hope that they make their way through fast so that she will get back to her happy little self. Good thing we have Porter around though, she lights up everytime she see's him. He is such a good big brother to her, maybe a little to rough at times, but she still loves him all the same.

These are Porter's frosted mini wheat people. The top one is a girl with her hair on the side of her head :) The other one is a boy and the little ones are dogs. Man he cracks me up.

The other morning I was sleeping soundly, but was woken up to this rustling sound. When I went into the kitchen to see what was making the sound I found Porter sitting on the floor sneaking the bag of doughnuts that Sean had made. Nice to know that he eats I guess... I used to think we was developing an eating disorder.

This is our rendition of a Christmas tree this year. We call it our Christmas bush! Since we knew we would be heading back to Utah for the holidays we didn't pack any of our decorations, which I am now regretting, but whatever life goes on. Sean and Porter went and got the bush and lastnight we all made homemade ornaments. Popcorn garland, cheerio garland, and saltdough ornaments. If anything it is a sweet memory of knowing that we can make anything work given the situation.

Lastly, here she is crawling!!!

Where did November go?

2010-12-02T18:52:00.000-08:00

Porter's imagination is always running wild. He always is coming up with the cutest pictures on his magnadoodle. This is a picture of me! Aren't I lovely? Haha I think I have a slight resemblance to the flower off of The Little Shop Of Horrors, wouldn't you agree?

And he wanted a mamoth while he was watching Ice Age, but unfortunetly we do not have a toy mammoth. After a slight meltdown I just walked out of his room and knew he would figure it out, low and behold he came up with this....

His elephant now has pool diving toys for tusks and a washcloth for long hair. It made me smile. I know it will make you too :)

Lo loves sitting in her highchair and after she is done feeding herself I just set her and the chair into the tub for a good scrub down. She is getting so big. Today while I was getting her dressed it hit me just how much she has grown in the past few months. Our family and friends are going to love seeing how much she has changed since we moved, when we GO HOME FOR CHRISTMAS!!! She still has two bottom teeth, she is completely obsessed with her binky, and just discovered her tongue. It is always sticking out of her mouth. She loves yelling outloud for no reason must enjoy the sound of her voice I guess. Porter's favorite thing that she says is "Gagaga." She also enjoys spitting and dragging herself all over the house. Hasn't quite gotten crawling down but lunging herself forwards and doing a version of a bunny hop gets her to where she needs to go so that is as good as gold. No longer holds still while getting her bum changed, or in the bathtub either. She fights going to sleep no matter what time of the day or night it is. Today she pulled herself up to Porter's bed and just stood there afterwards, cuz she wasn't quite sure what to do next. She is a busy body and keeps all of us busy. We love her and her personality that she shares with us.

Porter gets on these kicks where he only wants to watch a certain movie and only that movie. He was watching Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles the other day for the 2nd time, I could tell it was awfully quiet back there so when I went to check on him I found this...

Him and all of his Ninja Turtles having a sleep over.

While I was hanging up pictures Lo found this mirror and could not stop staring at her reflection. I love this picture because it reminds me of one that I have of myself from way back when, staring into the mirror in our camping trailer.

PO AND LO

2010-11-22T13:25:00.000-08:00

They are both growing up so fast. We love them and thank our Heavenly Father each and every day for the happiness that they fill our hearts with.

What I am thankful for is ...

2010-11-15T14:25:00.001-08:00

My husband, who makes me smile and helps me forget some of my worries

Porter, who always keeps me on my toes and brings laughter into my life

Lois, for choosing me to be her mom and for each day that she reminds me how sweet life is

Technology, my main source of keeping in contact with many loved ones, whom I am not

able to see each day

2010-10-31T20:01:00.000-07:00

Happy Halloween everyone!!! This year our family costume theme was decided by Porter. Laura took him to see the play of The Wizard of Oz and ever since that day he has been a die hard fan of the movie. He told us what he wanted to be and then assigned each of us our costumes. It was fun, although a bit challenging to make all of the costumes since I don't have my sewing machine delivered down here yet. Somehow I managed and everything turned out awesome. We went trick or treating on base to all of the Colonel's and Commander's homes :) can I just say if Sean decides to go Active Duty and make the Army a lifelong career I wouldn't mind being a wife to a Colonel. Those houses are beautiful and I hear that on most posts their homes are usually the big old beautiful ones, my dream homes. Porter took atleast 2 minutes at each house. NO EXAGERRATION!!! He had a story to tell each of the home owner's and each house we went to it was a different story. They all loved him and could tell that he was 3 years old. Oh man if only he was always that darling and never had his tissy moments. Lo didn't really care what we were doing she is always content with whatever we do. She just ate her head band, shoes and fingers the whole night. We loved being able to spend this Halloween together as a family. Although we missed many of you back in Utah we still had a blast.

2010-10-19T12:33:00.000-07:00

OUR TWO LITTLE MONSTERS

Each day is a memory

2010-10-13T09:48:00.000-07:00

We had the chance to go to Sea World last Saturday it was great and even more the kids did awesome the entire day. Porter loved every single thing that we saw, he is such an animal lover. If there are animals or in this case mammals involved it is guaranteed that he will have a good time. Some of the things we did was watch the show "Believe" that Shamu and 3 other whales put on. I realized that I am getting old and more sentimental as I watch our kids grow. Porter was so thrilled to watch the whales. He was smiling, clapping, laughing, and cheering the whole show. It was so cute it made me cry to see him that happy. Yes I was the crazy lady sitting in the stands with eyes full of tears while watching Shamu the whale. Porter navigated our way through the park with his map, once he spotted the white dolphin he was determined to see it and he continued to talk about that dolphin the rest of the day. The seals, a sea otter, and one humongous walrus put on a way cute play that we all got a laugh out of. Overall it was a fun filled day and one more memory that we have made here in San Antonio.

Porter and Shampoo the whale :)

He is always playing with her here he is making fart noises on her belly.

Lo and Po enjoying a scoop of Blue Bell.

Ways to keep me busy

2010-10-04T13:19:00.000-07:00

We have been down here in Texas now for 2 weeks and have already decided to move out of the apartment we are in and to get on base in a home. Things just haven't really worked out all that well according to plan since we got here, we are in a beautiful apartment but are surrounded by scary influences and an unsafe enviroment, so now that process begins to move. Luckily our belongings haven't gotten here from our home in Utah so we won't have that much stuff to pack up and move over. Sean leaves the house at 4:30 a.m. and comes home between 5 and 6 p.m. so until he gets here me and the kids just find anything to keep us busy and not drive eachother nuts. As soon as Sean's scooter gets here I will have my beloved vehicle back and I can start taking Porter to preschool and her to daycare for a few so I can get things done ... preferably working out at the gym. They offer a ton of classes and I don't have to pay a dime so you better believe it I am going to take full advantage of that!!! San Antonio is big and so far we have seen downtown a few times and some of the out skirts. It is so much greener than I thought it would be, it really is beautiful and the weather has been okay. I still am sad to know I will not see snow until I go home for Christmas, but honestly I can do without driving in it for one winter. Porter has missed all of the family alot, but can I just say Skype is a lifesaver. Who ever invented it deserves a huge kiss. What a great tool to have, to beable to see your family and friends from thousands of miles away. We are finding our favorite things down here beginning with Blue Bell icecream, seriously a brand of icecream that takes up 4 sections of the freezer aisle. There is such a huge variety of food down here, not just all bbq like I expected. That for sure has been one of my favorite things to do with my excuse of having no utensils to cook with we go out to eat atleast twice a week, which will soon end once we get into our new home, but I also am excited to beable to create food for the family. Cooking and baking are such a great stress reliever for me. We love you all and miss you dearly!!!

Are we considered Texans???

2010-09-21T15:56:00.000-07:00

I have not blogged in such a long time and I really should keep up on this better so that my sister in law and brother in law can read what we are up to while they are on thier missions ... sorry Dena and Weston. Porter is still just as quick witted and energetic as ever. We love our little boy who keeps us laughing almost constantly. Lo is almost 5 months old she is rolling over now and showing more and more of her personality each day. We packed up our home, put it up for sale and have moved to San Antonio, Texas so that Sean can do some Army training down here for the next year. He is changing his MOS to be a Biomedical Repair Technician working in the hospitals. It'll be a good change of pace for us and we will see in a year what the future holds for our family. Sean is great and he will do awesome with this training. Until then we will set up shop down here and start our new experience. It is exciting but also stressful not being close to anyone that we know. I am so grateful to know though that we have the church and the Lord will bless our family and guide us to people whom we will come to trust and beable to call family. Love you all soo much and I promise I will try and be better at blogging :)

We love summertime

2010-06-25T13:41:00.001-07:00

We had lots of fun this summer at Art City Days. We took Porter to the carnival, the parade and fireworks and as usual he loved all of it.

The entire time we were on the ferris wheel he kept on saying "Mommy it tickles my belly."

Getting a dragon painted on his face was probably his highlight of the week.

Harper's Batman and Po's dragon.

I know this picture is blurry but I find it hilarious everytime I look at their faces.

Porter loves fireworks and this year he can actually pronounce "fireworks" correctly ... Lol for those of you who know how he used to say it.

Lo is such a sweet little baby, she turned 2 months on Monday and is now starting to talk baby talk and smile all of the time. We love having our little girl in our family.

It's the little things

2010-06-05T17:06:00.001-07:00

Things have been pretty stressful lately. Thank goodness for our precious children who keep us smiling :)

This was one of my outfits I used to wear when I was a baby.

She is such an alert baby.

He loves to play "superheroes."

Porter loves his Baby Lo, they snuggle almost every night.

At Nanny's house playing in the sprinklers with his cousin Harper.

He came upstairs from his playroom to show me he was Darth Vader.

My children

2010-05-12T18:36:00.000-07:00

I love my kidos more than I ever imagined I could love somebody, other than my husband. Me and my sister Whit had a blast taking Lo's pictures although I am sure after an hour she was wondering why her mom would not just let her go back to sleep in her bouncer...and yes I did kiss her bum for that shot.

He wanted to say "Cheese" too.

That was right after I had her so don't mind my crazy hair or pale face.

I just love her little lips in this picture...so kissable!!!

Now a family of 4!!!

2010-05-01T17:46:00.000-07:00

Porter loved my Grandpa Wing's birthday cake, can you tell?

Our little Lois was born on Wednesday April 21, 2010 at 6:18pm. She weighed 6lb 12oz and was 19inches long.

Man I look like I just went through the ringer, but it really was a quick and easy process.

Definitely a daddy's girl already.

Porter holding his baby sister for the first time. He was telling her a story.

OOh I just love them!!!

Porter putting my doughnut to good use :)

Lo's first day home and her first little nap with Porter, can you tell he just adores her???

He is such a good big brother to Lois. Whenever she makes a peep he runs right to her side and tries to do all he can to help her be happy. Whether it be a binky or rubbing her head. I am still getting used to the fact that we really do have 2 kids now and I definitely have many deja vu moments reminding me of bringing Porter home and figuring everything out, if that is even possible??? But we love her more than imaginable and can't wait till her little personality starts to show through cuz right now she just sleeps, eats and poops.....(Hard life isn't it?)

Porter's dragon birthday cake.

He had way way too much sugar this night!!!

I seriously can not believe he is 3 years old, man how time flies by.

Of course playing the arcades with his daddy.

DIAPERS...CHECK, CRIB AND CARSEAT...CHECK, BABY... PATIENTLY WAITING

2010-04-12T12:42:00.000-07:00

His new favorite toy is Sean's Ipod probably because of those awesome earbuds that he uses to tune us out.

Still is my little cheeser :)

We went up to The Living Planet Aquarium and he absolutely loved all of the fish, the penguins, and reptiles.

I skipped out on a fun Spring Break vacation with my mom and sisters to St.George :( instead I stayed home and finished most of my projects that I needed done before next week gets here. My mother in law helped me make this cute slipcover for the carseat. No..., I could not just use it how it was, although it still was in perfect condition from using it with Porter.

Since our house is just a small little thing I am always finding ways to be creative with storage so I thought that this little envelope would be perfect to keep some diapers, wipes and other fun things in. Plus it'll give me a reason to not have to leave our room in the middle of the night when she needs something...right? (Fingers and toes crossed)

I am definetely obsessed with the retro owls and knew I was going to do her bedding in some sort of owl fabric. I finally found the right fabric last week and got busy with sewing up her bedding and pillows. I still need to tie some ties onto her comforter but I wanted her bed to actually look like a baby belonged in it, instead of being a home to our pillows and laundry.

Yep... there I am looking all huge and READY!!! 38 Weeks doesn't do a body good, I don't care what anyone says!

A quick update before I find myself with little time :)

2010-03-29T20:04:00.001-07:00

I know, I know I usually hate posts that don't have pictures, but I thought I'd hurry and let ya'll know the latest in our lives. We are doing well, working and trying to prepare for Lois's arrival. We are planning on getting induced on April 20th so really I only have 3 weeks left rather than 4. Which I am so happy about, but nervous as well. Do we really have everything we need?...NO, Do I feel like it's been a lifetime since I had a baby?...Yes, But do I want to be done being pregnant?...Oh definetely!!! More than likely the next time I post will be to show you all our little Lolee Reay :)

ENJOYING OUR TIME TOGETHER

2010-02-21T10:24:00.000-08:00

Don't worry that is only water in the cup :)

The fort that Sean and Porter made and then destroyed

Playing Rockband with his uncles and daddy

Us at the Grizzly's hockey game which was lots of fun..thanks Lacey and Curt!!!

Sean came home at the end of January, hence my excuse for not updating our blog. It is so nice to have him home with us knowing that he doesn't have to pack his bags and leave in a couple of days. Right now we are just trying to adjust to getting back into the swing of things, getting him back into school and finding him a job. Which has unfortunately proven to be harder than expected, but we are hopeful and know it all will work out in the end. I only have 9 more weeks left of this pregnancy and then we'll have our sweet little Lo here with us. We are excited to see how Porter reacts to a new baby, I am not nervous really because he loves babies and is so sensitive and caring towards them. He talks to my belly and gives it kisses on a daily basis so that might make him a little confused but nothing is more fulfilling than having the presence of a sweet innocent baby in your home. Sean's sister Dena left for the Dominican Republic on her mission almost a month ago and then his brother Weston leaves mid March for Texas to serve there. Things are definitely changing day by day we're losing some of our family members for a bit but also bringing new ones into our lives. What an overwhelming joy it is.

ABC's

2010-02-10T13:13:00.000-08:00

A- Attached or single: Attached, 5 years in June!!!
B- Best Friend: Sean
C-Cake or Pie: Cheesecake and Strawberry Shortcake
D-Day: Sunday
E- Essential Item: Chapstick and ice
F- Favorite Color: Black
G-Gummi Bears or Worms: Worms
H-Home town: Mapleton, Utah
I- Indulgences: These days it's anything dark chocolate
J- January or July?: July, my birthday is in July
K-Kids: Porter-2-1/2years old and Lo-arriving soon!!!
L-Life is incomplete without: My husband, family, and friends
M- Marriage Date: 6/24/2005
N- Number of Siblings: 3 sisters
O- Oranges or Apples: Cutie Oranges :)
P- Phobias or Fears: Not having my family

Q- Quote: "When you are a mother, you are never really alone in your thoughts. A mother always has to think twice, once for herself and once for her child."
R- Reason To Smile: Porter
S- Season: Spring!!!
T- Tag Three: Lacey, Danielle, Emily
U- Unknown Fact About Me: I love to clean???
V- Vegetarian or Oppressor of Animal: Definitely not a vegetarian, love me some meat
W- Worst Habit: Chewing ice
X-Rays or Ultrasounds: Ultrasounds, only because everytime I've had one it's been to see my babies :)
Y-Your favorite food: Right now it's mexican food
Z: Zodiac Sign: Cancer

The Best Christmas Ever!!!

2010-01-03T11:48:00.000-08:00

We will welcome little Lois Lee Reay this coming April. Man was I wrong, I definately didn't have the mother's intuition with this baby I for sure thought we were having another baby boy, but to our surprise Porter will get his "princess baby Lo" after all.
Doesn't he look so big??? Oh it makes me so sad
At the airport waiting for Daddy to come down the escalator
He was so happy to see Sean it made everybody's day to see how he reacted the moment Sean came down that escalator, there's nothing more precious than the bond that dad and son have with each other. He also made Sean a poster and was so proud of all the coloring he did.
Christmas Eve with Aunt Dena and Uncle Weston
Yes, that is my sweet husband fulfilling his dreams of looking like Santa Clause and being able to wear the closest thing to a tacky Christmas sweater that I would let him...a tacky Christmas shirt.
2009 Christmas morning with Porter. He was a blast this year and I am so happy that Sean was home to spend it with us.

Just a couple, out of his many awesome figurines.
Our son...Bumblebee. The helmet and gun weighed just about as much as he does.

Enjoying a much needed snow day with his Daddy!!!

Unfortunately, Sean's Christmas vacation ended way too soon. We all loved having him home with us, Porter most of all. He would not let Sean out of his sight the entire 2 weeks. He had to go back on New Years Day, this is us at the airport saying our sad goodbyes :(

At the end of the day it's all about FAMILY

2009-11-30T19:23:00.001-08:00

He fell asleep while coloring Santa Clause a picture :)

You just can't help but love this kid, seriously...seriously look at that mug!!!

Eating his version of Thanksgiving turkey, a turkey shaped cookie since he will not eat any other meat than a chicken nugget.
Dylan, Aubrey, Me, Porter, Laura, Dena, Weston and Kelly

* This Thanksgiving was especially meaningful to me this year. I feel that we have so much to be thankful for and I surely felt that all day long!!! Man I was a boob all day, so sorry to those who had to hang out with me I just couldn't help but cry. Especially once we sat down and discussed all that we had to be thankful for. I love all of my family and I love my husband. We missed Sean alot but were able to talk with him on the phone and also read a very touching letter he had wrote to be read with all of us family gathered together. These past few months have not been easy being separated from each other, having to make serious decisions with out Sean by my side, but these past 4 months have also been some of the greatest months because even with having thousands of miles between us, we have grown so strong together and I can honestly say that our marriage has never been so strong. Sean has grown so much spiritually and emotionally. He is such a great human being and I am stronger for having him as my husband. It is easy to go day by day and get caught up in all of the chaos, but for me this holiday season has been an eye opener and I thank my Heavenly Father each and every morning and night for blessing me with all that I have been given, all that I have faced, and all that I am going to face. I know I am blessed and loved by many, but the love from Sean and also the love I have from Christ is priceless.

Just Because it makes me smile

2009-11-11T16:31:00.000-08:00

I had to post this picture, it makes me smile :)

A Superhero Halloween

2009-11-02T12:25:00.000-08:00

Me and Reggie...scary I know!!! But he had such an awesome costume and Porter was not scared of him, more confused.
Jessica, Andrea, Shannon, Me, Aubrey, Lindsey, Reggie, Dan and Bailey
Pou, Casey, Jake, Chris, Tom, Reggie and Bailey
Zyanne, Porter, Layla, Jacoby, Bailey, Jaycie, and Trayden

Me, Shay and Very Pregnant Dan

Halloween was so much fun this year and Porter has been so patiently anticipating for the past month the day when he was allowed to wear his Hulk costume. Everytime I'd open up his closet he'd ask for "Hulky" but once it came down to putting the costume on and trying to paint his hair and face, he was not having any part of it!!! After a slight melt down and me losing the battle to the paint, we went out to my sister's trunk or treat and also up to my parents trunk or treat. He was so polite asking for his "Treat" and always saying "Thankyou", afterwards we had a party with mine and Sean's friends. Porter was definately much happier there, it was nice and warm and he was surrounded by toys. He was so fascinated by so many of our friends' costumes. Sean was way bummed out that he wasn't here to celebrate his favorite holiday with his 2 superheroes, but he is enjoying what they are doing right now, all of the weapons and training. He is done with Basic Training on November 13! Which flew by so fast. After he leaves there he'll head over to Virginia to do his AIT at Fort Lee. I'm just getting through this by knowing that it seems once Halloween is over we barely celebrate Thanksgiving and Christmas is right around the corner. Then he'll be home with us for the holidays for 2 weeks!!!

PFC SEAN REAY

2009-09-25T17:50:00.000-07:00

Sean has been gone for almost a month and he seems to be doing well. When ever I read one of his letters it makes me feel so happy to know this man. He is growing soo much and it definitely comes through on paper. It may sound crazy but it's like he's on his own mission in some ways. He regrets not going on a mission but has always understood that things happen for a reason and says he wouldn't take back alot of his mistakes cuz they got him to where he is today. He is able to go to an Lds church on base every Sunday and he also has a couple of members with him so I am glad to hear that he has a support system out there. They are busy from the minute they wakeup .... 4am 'till they go to bed at night but he says it gets hard sometimes cuz it's not like he's at relief society and can talk all day. They hardly get moments where they can just shoot the breeze, so he is constantly thinking all day long about everything. He would love to hear from his family and friends so if you would like his address let me know and I'll for sure give it to you. Also If you go to my facebook page I have a link from his company, they post pictures of Sean's batallion every couple of days, so that we at home can see what our soldiers are up to. It's awesome!!! I love him so much and can not wait to see him in a couple of months. Porter understands he is gone he is always saying "Daddy bye bye Army" and when he saw Sean's picture on the computer the other day he went crazy kissing and hugging it, such a daddy's boy :)

A quick update!!!

2009-09-08T16:52:00.000-07:00

Ha, right after I got done blogging Danielle called and told me that our friend Lindsay could do an ultrasound on me today. It is official now that I've seen our bean sized baby, not that the nausea and vomit hasn't made it a real experience or anything.... :) I am 6 weeks and 1 day along which puts the due date on May 3, 2010...Yep Porter's 3rd birthday so we'll see how that pans out. Sean's gonna love this news!!! Lol

Life is great!!!

2009-09-08T13:59:00.000-07:00

Yep you guessed right!!! We are having a baby and luckily found out before Sean left I had a hunch thanks to my Grandma Glazier...we've been trying but didn't expect it to happen so soon. Porter is going to be such a good big brother he loves babies and I've been trying to get him used to the idea of Mommy having a baby in her belly, but he has alot to get used to these days with Daddy being gone as well. I don't know exactly how far along I am yet but I'll find out soon and update.

I love my mom she is the best ever!!! And she loves me alot right now since she's been bugging me and Lacey to have another baby for the longest time.

I threw a farewell bbq for Sean a couple of days before he left. It was lots of fun and thank you to everyone who came, Sean loved seeing all of you and appreciated all of your guys' help. As you can see Porter was exhausted from all of the fun so he passed out on the way home. The past few months have gone by so fast and I don't think we could've ever found enough time to prepare for Sean leaving. He arrived at Fort Jackson in South Carolina on Monday night and began processing for a couple of days then actually made it to Basic Training. We haven't been able to talk since he left for Basic, but on Sunday I got a call from the couple missionaries who are serving at Jackson. Sister Fullmer said that Sean was at church on Sunday and has a good group of members he's with so the support he needs is there. It was so nice to hear something so positive, I know I definately have it easier since my family is here with me and he's there with a bunch of strangers and many others yelling in his face all day, but I know he'll do great once the hardest few days are past. His heart is in the right place and he has a strong testimony of the gospel. Our Heavenly Father will help us all get through this and we'll be blessed for mine but most of all my husband's sacrifices. Plus I can't help but think of how hot he'll be when he comes home for Christmas :) Too bad I'll be a pillsbury doughboy!

The following day we were able to go to the temple with our friends Amb and Christian for their wedding. It was such a special wedding and we hope them all the best, they are so cute together. I love spending that time with Sean, the temple is always the perfect place to be when you need some perspective.

This past weekend for Labor Day me and Porter went with my family camping up Fairview Canyon. It was so nice up there and we loved seeing Grandpa Wing. Porter definately stayed busy with the four wheelers and all of his cousins.

Time goes way too fast!!!

2009-08-25T19:39:00.001-07:00

I love my sisters so much!!! It is awesome having them as best friends and knowing that we can depend on eachother for a lot of things. I'm just going to say it now... sorry guys if I overuse you while Sean is gone, things can get pretty lonely in an empty home and only a 2 year old to talk to:)

And a cute 2 year old at that!!!

Flaming Gorge was our one last big vacation together with Sean. The weather was great, skiing was fun and Porter does so well anytime we're outside, so I knew being surrounded by water and dirt we were pretty much set for the whole week with out any tantrums....and I was right.

He is pretending to be my Grandpa Wing's dog

Sean caught crawdads for us so we had a nice little treat...when I say little I mean little, what is it with going through all of that work for like five bites of meat?

We went to the Monster Jam truck show last weekend and as expected Porter loved it. He has a couple of the trucks at home so he knew the names of a couple...still our favorites were Grave Digger and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle. He wanted absolutely nothing to do with the ear plugs so either my kid is going to be really tough or really deaf, I'm not quite sure yet.

Grave Digger was by far the crowd's favorite and when he did this the whole stadium went crazy. It started to hurt my ears after the first few seconds that was actually the only time all night Porter let me cover his ears....note to self....next time we attend something like this bring ear muffs, he thinks those are cool:)

The day is getting closer and closer

2009-07-12T16:03:00.000-07:00

We have found ourselves with alot of extra free time the past couple of weeks. Sean got layed off from his job which sucks really bad financially but it has given him the chance to spend more time with me and with Porter before he leaves. We are going to miss him so much while he is gone, but what a good guy he is to take a stand doing something that he has thought about since he was a kid and knowing that it is going to help him and his family. I love him and am grateful to know that we will spend everyday for the rest of eternity as Mr. and Mrs. Reay. He got a small taste of what life will be like for the next eight years, this weeked was his first drill weekend and he'll do another one before he leaves on August 31. We found out that he will beable to come home at Christmas for a week, we are both so happy knowing that 1 week out of almost 5 months will be spent together and with family and friends. I don't think that I can say it enough how proud of him I am. As his wife I admire what kind of person he is and the good that he does.

FOURTH OF JULY

BOATING AT YUBA LAKE

HAHA DID ANYONE ELSE EVER DO THIS?....

It finally feels like summer!!!

2009-06-30T13:54:00.001-07:00

I can not believe it is already July. This week was the first time we got to use our 7Peaks passes and I hope that this sunshine continues till school starts back up. Last weekend we went to two different family reunions, we celebrated our 4 year anniversary and I went to girls camp with my ward. I love love love summer, yes even if it is more hectic than relaxing.

I love my sister Lacey

Popo at the parade, he was hilarious he would catch the candy and throw it back to the people in the parade.

The Reay reunion

Sean's grandma enjoying her Bally Total Fitness sweat suit

All of Sean's cousins from Duchesne are such cowboys Sean and Porter certainly had fun roping

After the Reay reunion we headed to the Jackson reunion. It was lots of fun but Porter got the worst flu I've ever seen a child have...which is why he looks so sober sigh.

He loves Zyanne and teaches her new things every time they're around each other, whether it be nice or naughty ... (Sorry Dan)

We already decided they'll be boyfriend and girlfriend at some point in their lives.

Everything changes...that's what makes the world go around

2009-06-12T21:26:00.001-07:00

We have had many changes in our lives through out the past couple of months, changes that seem drastic but when you know it's right you just do... ya know? As some of you already may know Sean has enlisted in the Army Reserves. He got sworn in last Tuesday and we both are very excited and nervous to embark on this new adventure. The Army, for us is going to hopefully be a way that we can get ahead with out getting behind. I love my husband soo much and I know that Sean will be an amazing soldier. He leaves for bootcamp and his skills training the end of August for almost 5 months, so if any of you have any spare time on your hands from August 31 till the end of January give me a call I'm sure I'll be more than happy to hang out!!!

My little sister Whitney is such a sweet girl I love her to death! She is now dating Jeremiah Hobbs we love him and am so happy that she found someone who makes her laugh.

Me, Whit, and Lace

This is Andrew the boy that I teach at Reagan Academy. Isn't he darling? I am so excited to go back next year and continue working with him.

Sean's little brother Weston graduated from highschool a couple of weeks ago. We love him and hope that he does well in whatever he chooses to do.

Cute little bugger he loves his cars and trucks

Yay Art City Days is here!!! The weather has sucked majorly but we did take him to the carnival the other night. He loved the rides but the lines...ya, not so much.

Him and Harp are so good with eachother, although they are getting older and more competitive they still manage to make us all laugh.

Sean has got Porter into all of the comic books his favorite super hero by far is the Hulk. Here he is being way to crazy, way to late at night.

Husband Tag

2009-05-11T17:25:00.000-07:00

Full name: Sean Reay
How long we've been married: 4 years on June 24
How long did we date: 2 1/2 years
Who eats the sweets? Definately me
Who said I love you first: Probably him
Who is taller: Sean
Who sings better: Neither of us we're both tone deaf
Who is smarter: He's done the college thing so ... him
Who does the laundry: I wash it and he helps fold....sometimes....when it's his or Porter's stuff
Who pays the bills: Me
Who sleeps on the right side of the bed: Sean
Who mows the lawn: Whoever gets to it first
Who cooks dinner: We both do
Who drives: Usually him
Who admits they are wrong: We're both pretty stubborn so usually neither of us
Who asked who out first: I initiated it
Who wears the pants: He likes to think he does, but we're pretty equal
What does he do that surprises you: Alot of things he does surprises me
My favorite feature on him: His face
Does he have a nickname for you: Hay....how original, I know
His favorite food: Potatoes
His favorite sport: He likes them all, except for golf
Our favorite thing to do as a couple: Anything
Does he have any hidden talents: He is very creative
What do you admire most about him: How honest he is
His favorite color: blue
How did he propose: Superbowl Sunday he made a commercial during half time...I was so confused because he was on tv!!!....I told you he's creative

HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!

2009-05-06T13:43:00.000-07:00

Porter turned 2 on Sunday so we had a party at the house on Friday for him with all of our family and friends, I was stressed out over the weather but everything went smoothly and it didn't start sprinkling till mostly everyone had gone home. Thank you to everyone who came Porter loves his new toys and I love his new clothes!!!

It was a pirate themed party so everything was decorated in pirate including his outfit and both of the cakes.

This was his own little cake that we let him demolish...don't worry he ate 3/4 of it.

His dinosaurs enjoyed it just as much as he did...those are their tails sticking up out of the top of the cake.

Yeah he wasn't quite the pro at hitting the pinata but thanks to the bigger kids it eventually got busted open.

What a dweeb!!!

Mine and Sean's tradition we decided to start with our children is with each one on their birthday we would wake them up with a camera in their face singing Happy Birthday to them. I guess he thought it was pretty funny and early too seeing as how he wouldn't open his eyes.

He is such a cheeser

On Sunday night we had a movie night...yes he definately is Sean's son they both could live off of popcorn.

Right before Porter's party Ruby decided to go hunting for our rabbit Chewy, needless to say she was successful and now he is in heaven. So this is our new bunny he doesn't have a name yet but all I know is if the dogs get this poor little guy we're finding a different pet...no more dead rabbits.

Uncle Curt can always make him laugh!!!

I need to take a breather

2009-04-27T13:01:00.000-07:00

It feels like we haven't stopped going here and going there for the past two weeks...and now it is nice to know we have at least a couple of days that can be spent doing pretty much nothing, until this weekend when PORTER TURNS 2!!! Easter was lots of fun this year and Porter was a lot more into the Easter egg hunt than he was last year.

The Easter Bunny thought it'd be a good idea to give Porter a rabbit. His name is Chewy and he is such a funny little guy...or girl we're really not sure but since we have two girl dogs we figured we'd decide his gender... an animal can't have an identity crisis can they? He loves to follow people around and is getting very good at running away from both Porter and the dogs.

It only gets better with age

2009-04-09T14:31:00.000-07:00

Porter is getting so big he is 23 months old and will turn 2 on May 3. Each day is a guessing game as to what he will do next. After his shower the other night I hurried and ran a brush through his hair with out really looking at it, after it had dried we could not get over how funny he looked, once me and Sean were laughing he was as well...though he had no idea why I'm sure. Can you say "Alrighty then!!!"....He was blessed with Sean's curly hair which usually looks so freaking cute.

He also loves to hide everything in the oddest places. Sean babysat the other night and Porter decided to hide his Hot Wheels along with himself underneath the kitchen rug.

I'd still claim him if he had to wear glasses, especially one like these...he's a cutie!!!

Sean tied up Porter and out of nowhere he started saying "Help" this is honestly one of my favorite things he says only because the way he says it is soo sweet, his little raspy voice. P.S. Don't mind Sean's scary scream at the end...I have no idea!!!

I have been meaning to post this...Dena this is for you so you can see how awesome your little brother is... :)

Do kids really say the darndest things?...

2009-03-21T14:26:00.000-07:00

It is official I need to get back to the gym or running...whatever I can do to make this never happen again. The other day at school I was helping the students with their work when this sweet little girl named Kylee asked me..."Mrs.Reay are you having a baby?" I replied by saying "No, why does it look like I am?" she then said "It looks like it from your shirt that you have on." I of course couldn't help but laugh I love working with kids, they are soo innocent and so blunt!!! Soo my lesson learned for the day from a first grader was it is time to get my butt moving!!! Yes we would like another baby but, right now just is not a good time at all so until then I'll continue to look like I'm pregnant till the real thing happens...I guess.

USBORNE BOOKS!!!

2009-03-05T17:41:00.000-08:00

HEY GUYS!!!
I HAD AN USBORNE BOOK PARTY THE OTHER DAY AND WANTED TO LET ANYONE AND EVERYONE KNOW IF YOU WANT TO GO TO THIS WEBSITE AND LOOK TO SEE IF YOU WANT TO ORDER ANYTHING YOU CAN. www.read2yourchildren.com IN THE TOP RIGHT CORNER YOU CAN CLICK SHOP AND CLICK ON MY NAME "HALEY". YOU CAN GO SHOP AND ORDER ONLINE. I'M CLOSING MY PARTY SUNDAY NIGHT SO GO AHEAD AND LOOK, THEN LET ME KNOW IF YOU ORDER ANYTHING :)

Remember when...

2009-02-23T11:39:00.000-08:00

Lately I have been using Porter's Jonny Jumper for whenever I babysit Jake and Dan's baby girl Zyanne. I remember when Porter was soo content whenever he was in this I swear to it I could get anything and everything done that I needed to when he was a baby because he enjoyed it so much. The other day he was trying to pull Zyanne out of it so he could take a turn. I thought he was going to be too big for it but the little twirp still fits in it, he just looks funny.

Also....remember Highschool and all of the joys that come along with it :) Sean's little brother Weston is a senior this year he was a D'male at the basketball game last week. Being in that gym brought back so many fond memories of mine. Although...have any of you Devils been back since you graduated? Do you remember the gym being that small?

They definatley are brothers

Porter loved the game he was cheering the whole time so I guess we'll have to take him to more.

2009-02-23T09:08:00.000-08:00

Baby tag.
1. Where were you when you first found out that you were pregnant? At the doctor's office
2. Who was with you? Nobody
3. How did you find out that you were pregnant? Thought I had ulcers so I went to the doctor...I got a much different diagnosis
4. What was your first reaction to finding out you were pregnant? In shock
5. Who was the first person you told? Sean
6. Did you plan to get pregnant? Not necessarily
7. Did you tell everyone else right away? Yes
8. Was everybody happy for you? Yes
9. Did you go out and celebrate? I'm sure
10. Did you want to find out the sex? Duh...I'm way to OCD to go on such a whim
11.What was the sex? Boy
12. Did anyone throw you a baby shower? My mom, sisters and aunts
13. Did you get any outfits at the baby shower that you just knew you wouldn't put on your baby? Doesn't everyone...gotta love those hanger outfits!!!
14. How much weight did you gain? 24 pounds
15. Did you lose all of the weight that you gained? Yes, thank goodness!!!
16. Did you get any stretch marks? Nope, thank goodness for that too!!!
17. What did you crave the most? Ice
18. Did you crave anything crazy? No
19. Who or what got on your nerves? My kids at school
20. Did you have any complications during your pregnancy? Nope smooth sailing
21. Where and when did you go into labor? Orem Community Hospital May 3, 2007 at 6AM
22. Did your water break? Dr. Judd broke it for me...ya that was fun!!!
23. Who drove you to the hospital? Sean
24. Who was in the room when you gave birth? Sean and the entire staff at the hospital
.25. Did you go early or late? I was induced 4 days early
26. How long were you in labor for? 12 hours
27. Did you have any drugs for the pain? Oh did I ever...!!!
28. Did you go natural or have a C-section? Natural
29. What was your first reaction after giving birth? Definately scared and worried
30. How big was the baby? 6 lbs 12 oz, 19 1/2 inches
31. Did your husband cry? Yes
32. What did you name the baby? Porter Hugh Reay
33. Does his name have any significant meaning? Porter after Porter Rockwell and Hugh is a family name on my dad's side.
34. Did you have any visitors? Lots of Family and Friends
35.Did the baby have any complications? Yeah, he wasn't breathing when he came out, it took him 4 minutes to breath....I definately do not want to relive those minutes ever again
36. How old is your baby today? 21 months 20 days
37. When is the next one coming? Who knows...
38. If you could, would you do it all over again? Definately
39. Tag five: Lacey Daily, Kellie Lee, Florrie Nuttal, Shannon Foote, Kella Allfrey

Sean's dream has come true

2009-02-12T07:09:00.000-08:00

I think Sean has a lot of days lately where he feels like his biggest dreams have come true with Porter. They are soo awesome together and although I hate to admit it he is turning into a bit of a daddy's boy. When he was younger I knew all of the tricks but with out fail the minute that daddy walks through that door Porter clings to him.

This is what I mean when I say Sean's dreams have come true, if you know Sean then you'd know he is somewhat of a dork when it comes to Star Wars and Superheroes. He's got me into some of the movies but you'll never catch me reading a comic book! I have a feeling that Porter too will enjoy these things and it is starting now. They both came upstairs from the basement to show me their light saber skills...is that even how you say it?....sometimes I say light saver and now I just get confused what one is right.

He's not a baby anymore!!!

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

So Porter is officially not a baby anymore and it is bitter sweet. He now is getting potty trained, we are on day two. So far we are sucessful so I'm keeping my fingers crossed that we'll get through this pain free...any suggestions on little boys?

We are re-doing his room from fire fighting to pirates. I needed a change of scenery and thought I'd put those home ec classes to good use, thank you very much Mrs. Penrod!!!

If ever I can not find Porter with out fail, I'll go into his room and he'll be laying or sitting on his bed. Ruby and Mini enjoy it too cuz it's actually low enough to the ground for them to jump up on. Poor little weiner dogs with such stubby little legs.

This movie makes me laugh everytime I watch it. Porter can say many basic words but he also has this language that only he knows what he's saying. Santa Clause brought him fish and he absolutely adores them. He went on like this for a good fifteen to twenty minutes that night.

An update for Dena!!!

2009-01-21T11:05:00.000-08:00

My sister in law just left for Russia to go live there for 8 months teaching the children english. Our only way of communication is now the internet so I have to be better at keeping this updated for her to beable to look at our lovely mugs more often!!! LOL We are going to miss her soo much!!! She is an amazing girl and is such a great aunt to Porter. Here are some pics of us in Mexico and just some new random stuff, that I love.

Me and Dena finding many great things in the ship's gift shop...not!!!

Popo in his Superman jammies...he's going to save the world some day

Our New Year's Party with some of our best friends

Sledding up Right Hand Fork

I thought this was such an unforgettable moment. Sean reads him a story every night before bedtime.

Oh geeze we ate soo much freaking food on this cruise!!! They could've used me as the anchor for the ship!!!

Here we are in Manzanillo

We had soo much fun this day in Ixtapa and Zihaunteno. By far it's my favorite place in Mexico that I've been to. This is me and the dorky guys in the van on our way to snorkeling.

Me and Sean in Acapolco overlooking where the famous cliff divers perform.
This is probably the prettiest part of the entire city....it is just way too dirty!!!

Soo many things to love!!!

2009-01-15T14:15:00.000-08:00

I finally have updated pictures of Porter!!! We got all of the grandkid's pictures taken together and I love love love the way that they turned out. I was so worried about Porter because once we're outside he does not hold still!!! He sees daylight and he is gone, but fortunately I had my sister's with me to be loud and obnoxious long enough for him to smile. All of the kids were soo awesome and cute!!! Poor little kiddies were freezing their butts off, but every picture turned out priceless.

Off To Mexico!!!

2008-12-12T20:50:00.000-08:00

I know...I know I have been awful lately about blogging. Life has somehow turned upside down and inside out. But we're off to mexico for nine days for a much needed vacation!!! Although I'm sure the sun and atmosphere will be nice I really will miss being here especially right before Christmas...I am soo unprepared this year!!! I can't wait to get home just in time for a white christmas.

My Little Halloween Monkey

2008-11-07T07:31:00.000-08:00

We started out our Halloween by carving pumpkins first thing in the morning. Porter wasn't really that good of help with carving but he sure did enjoy finding many odd objects to stuff into the pumpkin's mouth.
Don't you think he looks soo BIG here?We went to my sister Lacey's neighborhood block party. It was lots of fun and Porter got to hang out with his cousins.

He had three suckers down within thirty minutes....yeah that was not a good night's sleep!!!

Although not all of them are looking in the right direction this made my grandparents so happy to have a picture of all thier great grandkids together.

What we've been up to...

2008-10-01T15:16:00.000-07:00

We've been way busy these past few weeks, hence the reason for no blogging....

We went to Green River for Melon Days!!! I love going down there although it is a podunk town full of a nice variety of white trash I still think it's nice to get away from our idea of everyday life in Springville. For most of the ride home Ruby slept on Porter's lap. I thought it was a nice change to go from him tormenting her to the two of them chillin'.

Puppies and Porter

2008-09-10T12:20:00.000-07:00

He loved his new boots, he couldn't really walk steady in them but they're cute and he enjoys them so that's all that matters right...gotta keep him happy in as many ways as possible.

Poor Ruby, can you tell she nursed five puppies?

We were so sad to see two of Ruby's puppies go to thier new homes, but I do have to admit not having five dogs run a muck all around my house is nice...now I just have three dogs (As if that's much better, right?...)Last night the little runt and the girl were soo hyper they were tackling Sean and for a good hour. I'll miss these two when they leave cuz then all I'll have is thier post partum mother.

Porter's new do

2008-09-04T13:17:00.000-07:00

Porter's hair is so fine, poor little guy he got his mommy's head of hair I am afraid. He has only had two other hair styles and the other day I tried this one out I think he looks pretty handsome. My cute little squirt!

Labor Day 2008

2008-09-03T13:59:00.000-07:00

We went camping over Labor Day weekend it was a blast and the canyon was a wonderful babysitter to Porter!!!

I'm Back!!!

2008-07-16T11:00:00.001-07:00

Sorry for the lack of blogging. I will be posting some pictures soon!

ACN

2008-04-22T13:58:00.001-07:00

So I have invested in this awesome company called ACN. It has to do with telecom...and I know what comes to mind when you hear that word, but seriously it is an awesome and legit company. With the benefits of being able to have a great extra income coming in. If any of you are interested in what I am doing let me know. We are always having meetings to introduce new people into what we're doing, and how you can do it to!

What the heck am I doing?

2008-04-09T18:37:00.000-07:00

So my sister Lacey is obsessed with blogging, as are many of you. She told me that I had to create a blog, so here I am. I'll post some pictures and what not when I have a bit more time.