The Becker Bunch

W.O.W.

2009-07-06T08:10:00.000-07:00

It's amazing the difference a year makes!

The last few days I've been astounded at how the human mind works. This isn't anything new, but this particular time I'm amazed by the mind's ability to not fully understand the gravity of a situation until MUCH later.

Many of you who have followed my blog for a while now remember this post...

http://thebeckerbunch.blogspot.com/2008/07/no-fireworks-needed.html

and this post...

http://thebeckerbunch.blogspot.com/2008/07/we-busted-out.html

from last 4th of July.

Reading back on the post, I realize it was a difficult time for us, however...I don't think it really hit me until VERY recently...like a few days ago recently.

I have spent the last few days finding myself remembering him in the hospital or having to leave him to get stitches because the Dr. said it would be hard to watch or seeing him suffer and I can't keep the tears from coming. I have a renewed and strong testimony of Heavenly Father's love for us and for how precious children are.

I have also learned quite a lesson from Keaton this past year and that is of the body's ability to bounce back and move on. On Friday, we went to the splash pad at the park to let the kids run around. At one point I saw Keat playing with some other boys, older boys, who eventually walked him over to a bench and the group sat and talked and played around. This is NO surprise because Keaton has an amazing ability to make friends ANYWHERE he goes. I was a tad worried as they started walking away so I followed from a distance. When they sat down, my mom worry went away but I stayed and listened to them talk. They talked about what they were playing and the other boys seemed to really think Keat was awesome(so do I). Eventually a lady with a VERY large dog walked by. The other boys jumped up and asked her, pleaded with her to let them pet her dog. She agreed and the group surrounded the dog, each boy scratching an ear or it's head or any other part they could reach. Keaton stayed back, but eventually got up and timidly touched the dogs nose, smiled and laughed as he did so, sat back down and VERY matter of factly told the lady, "I DON'T LIKE DOGS". :)

How much better would we be if we lived our lives in such a manner...notice he didn't tell her he didn't like dogs and THEN find the courage to pet it. He may have talked himself out of it had he reacted that way. Instead, he rode the roller coaster, got back on the horse, faced his fear and then was happy to report that maybe it didn't CHANGE his feelings, but he wasn't going to LET THEM change him.

Keaton is just amazing. I love that boy to pieces. I'm SO grateful for him and that a year later, he's okay, not only his face, but I believe he is okay too. I don't think there will ever be a FEAR of dogs, nothing that will go so far as to keep him from finding them funny and lovable. He may not jump to pet them or play with them, but he'll always love them. I'm grateful for that.

I know this post is a bit of a rambling, but I truly have been reminded that I am lucky this week. Lucky to have such wonderful little people to learn from and strengthen me. They keep me on my toes, but they keep me dancing!

I'm PROUD to be an American

2009-07-04T06:29:00.000-07:00

HAPPY 4th of JULY!!!

May God bless this wonderful Nation and those who fight to ensure our liberties!!

If there must be trouble let it be in my day, that my child may have peace.- Thomas Paine (1737-1809)

Liberty lies in the hearts of men and women; when it dies there, no constitution, no law, no court can save it.- Judge Learned Hand

The Star Spangled Banner

By Francis Scott Key 1814

Oh, say can you see by the dawn's early light

What so proudly we hailed at the twilight's last gleaming?

Whose broad stripes and bright stars thru the perilous fight,

O'er the ramparts we watched were so gallantly streaming?

And the rocket's red glare, the bombs bursting in air,

Gave proof through the night that our flag was still there.

Oh, say does that star-spangled banner yet wave

O'er the land of the free and the home of the brave?

On the shore, dimly seen through the mists of the deep,

Where the foe's haughty host in dread silence reposes,

What is that which the breeze, o'er the towering steep,

As it fitfully blows, half conceals, half discloses?

Now it catches the gleam of the morning's first beam,

In full glory reflected now shines in the stream:'

Tis the star-spangled banner! Oh long may it wave

O'er the land of the free and the home of the brave!

And where is that band who so vauntingly swore

That the havoc of war and the battle's confusion,

A home and a country should leave us no more!

Their blood has washed out their foul footsteps' pollution.

No refuge could save the hireling and slave

From the terror of flight, or the gloom of the grave:

And the star-spangled banner in triumph doth wave

O'er the land of the free and the home of the brave!

Oh! thus be it ever, when freemen shall stand

Between their loved home and the war's desolation!

Blest with victory and peace, may the heav'n rescued land

Praise the Power that hath made and preserved us a nation.

Then conquer we must, when our cause it is just,

And this be our motto: "In God is our trust."

And the star-spangled banner in triumph shall wave

O'er the land of the free and the home of the brave!

Broox' Photo Shoot

2009-06-30T07:45:00.000-07:00

Here is a photo shoot we did with Broox when he was about 4 weeks old. I can't believe how much he's grown and changed already from these pictures. He's really starting to pack the weight on. At his ONE MONTH WELL CHECK, here were his stats.

He weighs in at 9 pounds and 10 ounces
He is 22 inches long

He's a little over 50% in each category. He is EXACTLY the same weight as Lilee was at this time, but an inch shorter. However, he is over a pound heavier than Keaton was, but an inch taller. Looks like Keat will be our string bean, Lilee is our "big boned" one, and Broox may be our pudgy guy! Who knows in the end!!

Here are our photos...I LOVE our new camera!! I think the pictures look like they were taken by a professional!

Some of these I couldn't flip, so you'll have to turn your head!! :) He's already for winter...so am I!!

I LURVE LURVE LURVE his hair in this photo. He's already lost so much of it...but it looks so cute here!
Truly a gift!
I love the color contrast in this picture!
Already for church...heehee! He has "dancing legs" don't you think?! So graceful looking!
Here is the Build a Bear the kids got him. I'll have to take a photo to show you how small it is, but it looks HUGE next to Broox. I love his little smile...and those crossed eyes!
As with an eternal circle that goes on forever, so too will our family! What a blessing! (PS...my fingers were still so swollen that I couldn't get my ACTUAL ring off, so this had to do)
So new...
So precious!
This is Seth's favorite picture I think...If this isn't an ad for PEACE, I don't know what is!
I love these munchkins SO much! This is SO their personalities...Lilees showing off, Keat being cute and shy, and Broox sleeping through it all!!

We went up to Estrella Hills a couple weeks ago and got some great pictures there also!

Here's Lilee...I love the "architecture" of this picture!
They are such good friends...I love it!
I LOVE this picture...it looks like she's grumpy, but she was really just running REALLY hard and concentrating REALLY hard...but this IS the face she gives when she is being sassy, so there ya go!
He's such a goof!
Here's my beautiful lady...those EYES!!!
The kids are LESS than amused!A BIT more into it with daddy
The BEAUTIFUL sunsets that we are blessed with here in Arizona...not sure if it makes the heat worth it though...but you can truly see God's hand in this...it's amazing!

A.M.A.Z.I.N.G.

2009-06-24T21:16:00.000-07:00

While I'm sure MANY of you have seen this...I am posting it because Seth needs it for his team meeting at work tomorrow. They don't have access to direct YouTube...so this was the best way we figured to do it! If you HAVE NOT seen this...do so NOW! A.M.A.Z.I.N.G. Enjoy!

O Remember, Remember

2009-06-24T19:53:00.001-07:00

I have decided to start a new blog entry based on a talk by Elder B. Eyring. A clip can be found here.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DF01BQAcj8E&feature=channel

These posts will always be titled "O Remember, Remember"

"I realized trying to remember had allowed God to show me what He had done"

I most likely won't do this every day, but I am hoping that by attempting this as often as possible, I will be more aware of Heavenly Father's hand in my own life.

Last Sunday, as we were driving home from church, we asked Keaton what he had learned in nursery that day. In the past, we are usually given his typical answer..."we played play-dough, ate grapes and fruit snacks, and colored" Sometimes he remembers to tell us that they played with cars and other toys. Seth and I usually look at each other and smile. It has become so humorous that when he doesn't offer a lot of information up, we usually ask what he had for snack, since that is typically what he remembers most.

However, on this particular Sunday, when we asked him what he learned in nursery, Keaton said, "I A CHILD OF GOD" As surprise was overcome by happiness and pride, I became very aware of the individuals teaching my child such precious and simple truths. How grateful I am to them. How grateful I am for the innocence and quiet reminders that come from my perfect little man. I hope I will be able to more deeply instill this truth in all my children and remind myself each day that "I, too, A CHILD OF GOD"

P.P.S.

2009-06-24T06:58:00.000-07:00

Day two of P90X...

I want to die!

My arms are more sore today than they were yesterday from Monday's shoulder and back workout.

Waking up last night to cater to the Broox Man proved to be TERRIBLY difficult after the hour long cardio workout...which, by the way, was so horrendously difficult, I truly thought I may keel over and die right in the middle of "Bringing It". 3 months of this, huh?! At least the cardio is only once a week...whew! Tonight is arms...huh?! Why do my arms already hurt?! Tomorrow is YOGA and I'm PRAYING that there are some relaxation yoga techniques in there somewhere amidst the GRUELING hour long intensity. BEACH BODY, BEACH BODY, BEACH BODY...that's my mantra...that and...ANYBODY CAN DO ANYTHING FOR 30 SECONDS!

If you have NO clue what I'm talking about, ask...I'd be happy to share with you what Seth is "determined" we try. I'll tell you this much, I'm DEFINITELY "feeling" the burn! Hopefully in a few weeks time we'll see some results! I'm excited to lose this baby chub once and for all...at least until I get pregnant again! Sheesh...let's hope that doesn't happen anytime soon!! :) I cannot IMAGINE what my "fours company" post would say!!

This will be us in 90 days...heehee, a girl can dream, can't she?! But these ARE real 90 day results...gives ya a goal at the least, right?! :)

P.S.

2009-06-23T11:52:00.000-07:00

Seth and I started P90X last night. If you don't know what that is, go here...

www.BeachBody.com/P90X

Wish us luck...

we're gonna need it!!

If we're brave...we'll post before, during, and after progress photos!

HAPPY DAD's/HUSBAND's DAY Seth-ee-Poo

2009-06-23T10:46:00.000-07:00

We didn't do a whole lot. I sorta dropped the ball this year with everything since the babe has come, but it doesn't change the fact that I am married to the most WONDERFUL man alive! I truly don't believe I deserve him and feel so blessed that he chose me! I have SO many great things to say about his as a husband, but I'll save that post for our anniversary in July!! Right now, I want to express my love and appreciation for him as a father. When Seth and I had difficulty getting pregnant, he was my rock. He always talked about the kids we'd have one day and he always knew it would happen. It would melt my heart to hear those words and really did bring me such comfort. When we lost Logan, our hearts were both broken, but Seth always assured me that "Logan made us parents". I didn't always feel that way, but Seth already was the best daddy. Then Keaton entered our lives. Immediately, I knew that Seth deserved that title. The more kids we've added to the equation, the more Seth has lived up to the title of BEST DADDY. He's more than willing, but WANTING to play with them. He THINKS about them throughout his day. THEY ARE HIS WORLD! He comes home and gets right on the floor to wrestle or snuggle and then jumps up to give the baby loves. In between, he's changing diapers, helping to stop a brewing battle, picking up messes, and just overall being the most amazing man I've ever known! I love him with all of my heart and am SO grateful for him in my life.

I LOVE YOU!
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No pictures from this year, but I'll post a few of my favs of him and the kiddos!
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This

is what he got for Father's Day this year...we just have to order it! :) Remember, dropping the ball and such! We also had donuts, as requested, for breakfast and made homemade sausage and egg sandwiches for dinner...yummo!

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WE LOVE OUR DADDY!!

Three's Company...

2009-06-16T09:32:00.000-07:00

What I've learned in the last 4 weeks.

~Three kids IS different than two kids

~Your older children will surprise you when the new baby arrives...in good AND not so good ways

~Little girls who are sassy BEFORE the new baby, will be more sassy AFTER the new baby

~Big brothers are AWESOME the second time around

~Big SISTERS think they are MOMS when the new baby comes

~Having a new baby will "fix" any sleep problems with older children...probably because you are so tired you don't have the energy to do anything except let them fix it themselves

~You can fall in love with your husband all over again when you watch the baby pee all over him and he laughs

~Getting no sleep at night with three kids is VERY VERY different than getting no sleep at night with one or two kids

~Two children will reak HAVOC in the kitchen, bathroom, bedroom, living room, etc. when unattended

~Whether you remember or forgot, POOP WILL STAIN...even your brand new luxury sheets

~The grocery store is a scary place with three children 3 yrs and younger...and a place where people WILL look at you like you are the next Octo-mom

~Dr. Jeckyl is REAL...come to my house about 3am and you'll find HER mumbling obscurities at her husband

~Mrs. Hyde WILL return each morning to apologize to her husband...but beware of the no sleep monster again each evening

~Baby eye balls are INTERESTING and MUST BE TOUCHED by 1 year old little girls...who think they are mommies...and are sassy

~Two hours of sleep isn't enough to function normally...I didn't say you can't FUNCTION at all...just not normally

~The word "NO" means NOTHING when you are tied up with the baby..."NO, don't take your sisters diaper off, she's not potty trained"..."No, don't squirt your go-gurt ALL OVER THE carpet"..."NO, stop hitting your sister, biting your brother, scribbling on the wall, scribbling on your face, flooding the bathroom floor, etc."

~A sweet baby makes it ALL WORTH IT!

My sweet little man is FOUR WEEKS OLD TODAY!! Where has the time gone?! He'll be a month old on Friday...so sad! He's already gaining TONS of weight and chunkin up like Becker's do!! He has pretty much slept through his first 4 weeks of life. He WOULD sleep at night also except that the second we put him down he gets restless. We're working on the sleep issues and enjoying his little CALM personality start to shine. He is DEFINITELY laid back, as I've heard the 3rd child always is! He lets his older brother and sister poke, kiss, and love on him most of the time. He just began to smile...mostly when he's tired...and it's adorable! He's losing lots of his hair already and his eyes are turning blue. He really is just the sweetest little guy ever!

Keaton and Lilee have been overall GREAT with him. They get in his face a lot, but as I mentioned, he doesn't seem to mind most days. He has been stepped on already, and surprisingly took it really well!

Keaton is an AMAZING big brother. He wanted NOTHING to do with Lilee until she was about a year old and this time he just can't WAIT for Broox to "get big". For the first 3 weeks, EVERY TIME Keat woke from a nap or in the morning, he'd ask us..."Is Broox big yet...he play cars now...he walk with me?" Seth even caught him a couple times talking to Broox in his bassinet..."Say da-da...c'mon...say da-da". Too cute. He helps with EVERYTHING...wants to feed him, hold him, protect him. If I put Broox on the ground, he'll immediately go over and lay by him and make sure if his paci falls out to put it back in his mouth. He spends so much time just staring at him...so do I! He's an INCREDIBLE little guy. He's also really starting to learn and recognize his letters. He LOVES his ABC pre-school and all his friends. The week after Broox was born, they took a field trip to Peter Piper Pizza to learn about the letter "P". I packed all three kiddos up and we headed over...quite the accomplishment for me. The other day he found a piece of trash that looked like the letter "J" and showed me. He is talking a TON more and I can see an end in sight from the TERRIBLE 3's that started so badly. He's such a sweet boy and everywhere we go people tell me how loving he is. He'll come right up to ya and give you a hug, whether he knows you or not. On a daily basis since Broox has come he will tell us he loves us, very randomly. WE LOVE YOU TOO KEAT BEAT!!

Lilee is a DIVA...sass-a-frass...cute as a button little snot!!:) She is such a mommy to Broox...wanting to SHOVE his binkie or bottle in his mouth whether he wants it or not. For a girl who was VERY used to getting her way, things have started to change. Luckily, she doesn't seem to make the connection between baby and change. She loves Broox a TON. However, her tantrums have increased and she gets a LOT more emotional lately. We've had to put our foot down on some behavior that was acceptable before but now is just too much. She hits, bites, and SCREAMS "NO". She's adjusting. She really is SO cute with Broox too though. She asks where he is whenever she wakes from a nap. She is talking a TON already and communicates so well. She even knows some of her colors...she's our little smarty pants. I can't wait till she is a BIT older and can have girls days with me and all the girls in our family. It'll be fun to have just us 'gals' hang out and leave the brothers at home! WE ADORE YOU PRINCESS!

Seth and I are adjusting as well. It hasn't been too big of a change so far...especially because Broox sleeps so much. The nighttime lack of sleep is a bit much for both of us. Seth is such a good husband and daddy, very willing to help me at night with feedings and such. I know ladies, I picked a winner! He also works VERY hard at work to support our growing family and comes home each evening to children running into his arms. His kids ADORE him...and so do I! Just before Broox was born Seth was called as the new Young Men's' President in our ward. It is a very demanding calling, one that will take him from home and require much of his time. I'm learning to be more independent and Seth is learning to be more proactive and assertive. All are great qualities that we are grateful to learn. ;) This calling truly is a blessing and I know Seth will be a great leader to the boys in our church. My days are long, but more rewarding than I ever knew they could be. My house is a disaster, but my children love me. Dinner is rarely made on time or at all, but my marriage is strong. The world is a challenging and cynical place, but I have great faith. I AM SO BLESSED!

Some pictures for your viewing pleasure...

What cute little munchkins

She UBER loves her little brother

Broox had really bad jaundice when he was born and had to have the Bili-Blanket for a few days...here is my little pumpkin baking away!

The kids have had to get creative these last few weeks. We didn't know they got naked for quite some time...stinkers.

Here is Broox' first bath...yeah...he SLEPT THROUGH IT...what kid does that?! He didn't even wake up once. Keat was SO excited to "help"

We've taken MANY trips to the park lately too. Mainly mom needs to get out of the house and go somewhere that the kids can let out some energy!

Lilee playing in the water...she's such a cutie!

Broox...is he just not the CUTEST little man ever...look at those CHEEKS!!!!

Broox' Birth Story

2009-06-16T08:32:00.000-07:00

I know, I know. I keep promising updates and then I never follow through. MANnnn...I really need to get back into blogging! Well, we'll start here, with Broox-y-Boy's official BIRTH STORY! Enjoy!

Monday, May 18th. In an effort to make a bit more progress, I took the kids to the mall Monday morning. We met Amie and the boys and let the kids play. I got SOME walking in, but managed to get a few last minute things done as well. At 37 weeks pregnant, I was exhausted and by the time I got the kiddos home we all napped for a couple hours. That afternoon I had an appointment with my Dr. and was hoping that we would set an induction date for the following week. When I got there and asked, my Dr. said he wanted to wait until I was a bit closer to 39 weeks rather than 38 to induce. Blah! Then, he checked my progress and I was 4 cm. dilated and 80% effaced. He asked if I wanted him to strip my membranes, which I did. WHOA NELLY...that hurt...BAD! I don't remember it hurting when my membranes were stripped with Lilee, so I was excited that things might progress after I left. My Dr. was sure that he would see me that night, although, that is EXACTLY what I was told with Lilee and nothing ever happened. Well, I left the office, had a few contractions, but a LOT of errands to run. By the time I made it to Walmart I was having some pretty intense contractions and they seemed to be getting into a pattern. I made it home and after a few hours of contracting and walking around the block and losing patterns and losing intensity and gaining intensity...we decided to head to the hospital and see what they wanted us to do. We put the kids to bed and had Seth's brothers come over to hang out while the kids slept. We got to the hospital about 9pm and I was hooked up to all the monitors. They showed that I was contracting, but they weren't consistent. We decided to walk the halls a bit and see if things would pick up. Walked and walked. No progress made. I was CONVINCED they would send me home like they did with Lilee. Seth and I packed up all our stuff and waited for the nurse to come and tell us we could go home. I wasn't nearly as upset as I was waiting for Lilee since I had prepared myself for this outcome. BOY WERE WE SHOCKED when the nurse came in and said that my Dr. was on call that night and decided to admit me and break my water. We just had to wait for a Labor and Delivery room to open up.

About 12 midnight it was GO TIME. My nurse came in and introduced herself, followed by the anesthesiologist who was a riot. I loved both of them. Then, my Dr. came in, broke my water and said, "don't push until you see my face"...that was the last we saw of him until the big arrival. The anesthesiologist was back in the room within minutes and I had my epidural about 10 minutes later. It was the FIRST epidural that worked instantly and completely the way it should. I had to keep asking if I was actually contracting because I couldn't feel any contractions. This was new to me. The plan, since I was dilated and effaced, was to get my station(how far down the baby's head is) a little more progressed. Broox was still VERY high. After getting my epi, I was going to be sat up and let gravity do it's thing the best it can with an epidural. That plan changed when my blood pressure dropped significantly. The epidural can have an effect on blood pressure and apparently, mine was dropping. They tried some things and eventually ended up giving me some medicine to help raise my bp. That was just the beginning. The medicine they gave me seemed to start having an effect on Broox' heart rate. It began to plummet. It was really pretty scary when your nurse tells you that if they can't get it down, they will have to move to the operating room "just in case". I was immediately put on oxygen and laid on my left side...all things hoping to increase his heart rate. From this point on, laboring was slow and scary. The nurse never left our room because she didn't want something to "happen on her watch". SCARY. I was scared for myself, but more scared for the little bub inside. Nothing like this has ever happened before and I was trying not to panic myself.

Just before 4 am the nurse checked me and I was dilated to 6cm. They nurse was so excited for my progress, but I was DEFEATED! I gave birth to Lilee in 4 hours FLAT...and it was coming up on 4 hours and I was only at a 6?! I was scared I'd be in labor all night! FIVE minutes later, I began to feel sick and "different". I asked the nurse to check me again and when she did, she looked SHOCKED and said, the baby is RIGHT there. In 5 minutes time, I had gone from a 6 to complete, fully dilated and the baby went from a negative 2 station to a POSITIVE 4, which is just about crowning. It was insane.

They informed me that my Dr. was AT HOME...yikes...but they called him. NOT pushing was something VERY new to me. It was something sorta unnatural. My body wanted this kid out...Broox WANTED OUT! FINALLY, my Dr. showed up and it was show time. About 3 pushes later and out came his head! Seth said that the cord was wrapped around his neck and the Dr. had to unwrap it...this is probably what was causing his heart rate to drop. 2 more pushes after that, and Broox was laying on my chest getting cleaned off. It was about 30 seconds later that the nurse "reminded" the Dr. that we didn't know the sex of the baby. He quickly pulled off the blankets and said, "it's a boy"...to which Seth and I both said, "WHAT?" We were surprised that Broox was here, but so grateful for another little man to join our family! He was perfect and SO STINKIN' CUTE! And there you have it...another quick delivery, another GORGEOUS Becker Boy to make our lives more beautiful! We love you little man!!

Broox Stephen...with photos!

2009-05-22T10:46:00.000-07:00

Okay...before I get to the details...have you SEEN a cuter little man...ever?! :)

"Don't look at me...put me back"

"This feels familiar"

Proud daddy with son

6 pounds 15 ounces...we have chubby cheeks!!!

After his bath...our little lobster!

Lilee meeting her little brother...flaunting her new BIG SISTER status!

The kids were SO eager to meet Broox.

I love this picture...I see Keaton AND Lilee in him also! So precious!

Getting ready to go home...SO TINY!
We've been doing as much of this as we can lately!
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I'll have to come back with the details...

Stay Tuned!

Introducing...

2009-05-21T14:34:00.000-07:00

BROOX STEPHEN

It's a BOY...can you believe it?! We were a little surprised at first, but cannot IMAGINE anything else than our little Broox now!!

Born: May 19th, 2009 @4:14am (3 weeks early)

Weighing: 6 pounds 15 oz. (our biggest bub yet)

Length: 20.5 inches

DARK HAIR...who knows who he got THAT from?!

PERFECT little guy...so content and peacefull...such a joy!!

I am so in love...so in love and blessed! I am a mother to 4 amazing children...such sweet unique SPECIAL spirits!! How'd I get so lucky?!

I'll post pictures and an official "birth story" later...just wanted to update everyone!!

CANDLES

2009-04-28T18:58:00.001-07:00

I'm hosting a GOLD CANYON CANDLE PARTY!!

When: THIS Thursday, April 30th from 6:30-8:30

Where: My house(E-mail or comment if you don't have the address)

This is a great opportunity to get out of the house and chat with the ladies! I will have yummy snacks and there are some great buying incentives as well. All orders placed that night will be in BEFORE Mother's Day! Get the mom in your life something special...or just treat yourself!!

If you would like to place an order but can't come on Thursday, feel free to contact me and I will be sure to get your candles ordered!!

I hope you can make it!!

A Success...

2009-04-18T15:57:00.000-07:00

THANK YOU TO EVERYONE who donated and came out this morning to walk with us! Everyone had a great time and the weather, despite being slightly warm, was beautiful! As a team, we raised over $500 dollars! What an accomplishment! It is awesome to know we have supported such a worthy cause and something I hold so closely to my heart! THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU!!

Here's some pictures of our great day...

Before the race...33 weeks tomorrow!! The countdown is ON!
The Wilson's
Our happy family!! The kids did great!!
Two preggos...two approaching due dates...two HOT MAMA's
The whole clan finishing the walk with a bang!! We had about 30 people on our team this year!

Is that Keaton or the Joker?! That boy LURVES his Cheetos!

Oh those beautiful blues!!
Haylie and Chloe had a great time "playing" with baby Kylee!
The THREE MUSKETEERS...I love this picture!

There you have it...a great day, a great cause!

If you are interested next year, let me know!! Same bat time...same bat channel!

18 more days till the big walk...wanna come?

2009-04-01T09:04:00.000-07:00

The March of Dimes, March for Babies walk is coming up shortly(April 18th).

We've had lots of people tell us they were going to join us, but not many people have actually SIGNED up for our team! This is important for TWO reasons.

ONE, we would like to figure out an order for this FANTASTIC shirt that Seth designed, so we need a list of everyone who is going to see if they want us to make one for them.

TWO, this TRULY is a great cause, and without signing up, it will be unlikely that any money will be raised and ultimately that is really what we want. It's so easy to do, just click on the link from the below post. Sign up, and send an E-mail out to friends and family.

Even $10 will help this cause and help the sweet babies and families that need it so badly. See what you can do, you might surprise yourself! Last year was a huge success for us and I just want this year to be as much a success!

It will be a GREAT TIME together as friends and family and I encourage anyone who would like to join us to do so...just SIGN UP!!

Also, for those of you who cannot make it this year, but understand the greatness of this organization and would like to offer a tax deductible donation, you can do so by clicking on the March for Babies banner on the right of my blog! I'm a 1/3 of the way to my goal...whoo hoo!!

THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU!!

ps. Camera coming soon...maybe even today! Stay tuned for long awaited updates as well as some new pictures...maybe even a new belly shot of my ginormousness!!:)

MARCH OF DIMES

2009-03-07T11:49:00.001-08:00

I have been a MAJOR slacker this year. Things are just krazy for us, as I'm sure they are for everyone else. Amid all the chaos, I have once again started a family team for the March of Dimes "March for Babies"!

Here are the details...

WHEN: April 18th @ 8am...7am registration

WHERE: Wesley Bolin Plaza...Phoenix, AZ

WHO: ANYONE IS INVITED TO JOIN OUR TEAM!!

WHY: I have always held a very special place in my heart for the March of Dimes. I am confident that with continued support, one day, even babies born as early as my Logan will stand a fighting chance...thanks to the March of Dimes. Not a good enough reason?! Here are just a few more...

The March of Dimes uses 77 cents of every dollar you raise in March for Babies to support research and programs that help moms have full-term pregnancies and babies begin healthy lives. And your funds are used to bring comfort and information to families whose baby was born too soon, or sick.

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LOCALLY:

Each year, $100,000 is awarded to select community-based organizations focusing on maternal and infant health. Additionally, the NICU Family Support Program at St. Joseph's Hospital and Medical Center in PHX touches 700 families per year by offering emotional support and education to those with a baby in the NICU.

NATIONALLY:

466 active March of Dimes research projects were held in 2008

99.5 million dollars in research grants in 2008 working for solutions for every baby.

13 March of Dimes researchers have received Nobel prizes.

This is a charity I hold VERY near and dear to my heart!

This is an invitation...JOIN OUR TEAM! Walk with us to support babies. Donate what you can, IF you can! HOLD YOUR BABIES CLOSER and be grateful for their health!

Last year we had a GREAT time...there were about 20 people in our group. We had matching shirts made(thanks to Richard Owen and Shirts 'N Stuff). We laughed, we walked, we talked, we enjoyed the booths, the free stuff, the free lunch, and knowing we were making a difference!

Wanna join?! Here's how...

http://marchforbabies.org/wd_regp04.asp?si=&prefill=&walk=family&pnum=3229&pname=FAMILY+TEAMS&w=&g=&tname=FAMILY+TEAMS%2AAZ&SeId=532493&subname=Leaping+for+Logan&change=&u=&v=5&tnum=446623

Here's some photos of last years walk...it really was a GREAT time!

THANK YOU!

2009-03-07T11:26:00.000-08:00

Thank you to EVERYONE who has had us in your head and hearts this past week! We felt your prayers and my dear friend has been so blessed with the comfort and strength that only Heavenly Father can provide!

On Monday, we spent a nice afternoon at the grave site with the kids. Amie and Aiden picked out a lovely flower and we had a picnic and sang HAPPY BIRTHDAY to Logan! It was nice. Keaton still isn't too sure about everything, but he now knows who Logan is when we show him his picture! Thanks again for all the wonderful calls on my behalf and flowers(Lind's). We really do have the greatest family and friends in the world...we have been shown that time and time again!

I was so excited to get some "family" snap shots while there, but alas, our camera has officially DIED! FORTUNATELY, last month I took the kids and my mom and we had a picnic at the cemetery. So, here are those pictures!!

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Playing in the leaves

My kiddos

Being kids...I found such peace that they had FUN there...it wasn't a sad place for them, and it showed me that it shouldn't be a sad place for me either. I am SO blessed to KNOW that my little family will live TOGETHER FOREVER! I W.I.L.L. see my little man again...what a reunion!

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Speaking of babies...I am now 27 weeks pregnant?!?!?! SHOCK! WOW, this is going by F.A.S.T. I am feeling the discomforts of pregnancy, but grateful things have gone so smoothly! I am down to 3 week visits, and then at 30 weeks I'll go every other week! KRAZINESS! Sorry about the "scare" in a previous post. We still do NOT know the gender of this little one. If I had to guess, I'd say GIRL, but I call it HIM all the time...who knows! I'm carrying UBER high, but the babe is literally RESTING on my cervix. Dr's said it looks like it has already dropped...who knows! It moves ALL THE TIME and I'm exhausted ALL THE TIME like with Lilee, but the heart rate has always been where it was for Keat and Logan...WHO KNOWS!! Guess we'll find out in about 3 months!!

Here is my 20 week belly, and I will take a 27 weeker tomorrow before church(after I look presentable). I haven't been exactly consistent with the whole belly picture thing! I'm huge though, so look forward to that! I will also post a comparison photo of how I looked with Keat and Lilee...HUGE I tell ya!!:)

BLAH...I forgot...we have NO CAMERA! I guess there will be no new photo's until we get a new camera! Until then...

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Remember, that is 20 weeks, NOT where I am now...it's a LOT bigger now!

Well, thanks again for loving us and supporting us as we grieved! We love you all!!

A tough few days...

2009-02-27T19:06:00.001-08:00

A sad post to mark my 100th for my blog. While I have every intention of updating our happenings over the last couple months, I feel very inclined to write about a dear friend of mine. At 19 weeks pregnant, her water unexpectedly broke and 2 days later she delivered a beautiful, PERFECT, baby girl. Amelia Jayne was born silent. My friend joins me in a horrific group of mother's who have had to say goodbye to their sweet babies.

After dealing with losing our son Logan, I told myself that if ANYTHING good was to come from it, it must be ME. I vowed to HELP anyone who had the awful duty of burying their child. Until now, thankfully...and unfortunately, I haven't had that opportunity. The pain that has come from watching someone I care for go through the anguish and heartbreak of such a happening is something I didn't quite expect. For this to happen alone would be enough to tear my heart to pieces, but for her to be born just 4 days before my Logan's birthday is especially heart wrenching.

I am grateful...for so many things. GRATEFUL for the perspective I have gained over the last four years since our baby boy entered this world. I hurt for her so deeply to KNOW the pain she feels leaving her daughter at the hospital, of going home, of trying to figure out what NORMAL is again, of making PLANS to bury your child...the list goes on. I wish for her PERSPECTIVE...which, sadly, is only gained through time.

GRATEFUL for the blessings I have seen come from our trial. Do I wish it never happened, ABSOLUTELY. Do I wish I had my sweet boy here today, to celebrate a 4th birthday with, to tell me he loves me and to kiss goodnight, WITHOUT A DOUBT...but I am grateful for the children that we probably wouldn't have been blessed with-without our loss.

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GRATEFUL for friends, mentors, even hero's that I wouldn't know had we not had to endure this loss. People walked into our lives that day that will FOREVER be bonded to us. Acts of kindness that were done and words spoken that to this day touch my heart and help to mend the small cracks in my heart that are still there, and I believe may always be there.

GRATEFUL for the opportunity Heavenly Father has given me to HELP. I wish from the moment we lost our Logan that NOBODY in the ENTIRE world would EVER have to go through that. However, since they do, I am grateful for the ability to say, "I KNOW". While every person is different and handles things differently and every situation is different, a part of it is the same. I DO KNOW. I wish I didn't, but I do, and if I have to...I want to be able to provide that shoulder, lend that ear, wipe those tears.

I am asking that all who read my blog offer up prayers for my sweet, sweet friend. Her family needs those right now more than anything. I KNOW they will feel them, I did. I pray every chance I get that she is being blessed with the same comfort and strength that we received from Heavenly Father and others during that time. The same comfort we receive to this day. I KNOW that our Father in Heaven is aware of my friend right now, and I know he plans to bless her dearly for her strength.

On Monday, I will wake up, battle with my darlings to get them ready, load them in the car and drive to Mesa. There, I will talk to Keaton and try again to explain who Logan is, where he went, and what he is doing. We will put some new flowers in the vase, perhaps some balloons and we will sing Happy Birthday to our son, our brother. I may cry. I may not. But I WILL be thinking of my perfect little boy and his new friend Amelia.

Last year I made this montage...if you've seen it, you don't have to watch it again. If you want to, take a peek...oh how I miss my tiny man!

http://www.onetruemedia.com/shared?p=52677d12ef05c5e7f78c16&skin_id=701&utm_source=otm&utm_medium=text_url

...End of December

2009-01-29T08:40:00.001-08:00

Okay, MAJOR PICTURE OVERLOAD! I am TRYING to get caught up, but it just isn't happening! Since I uploaded all the pictures and Blogger put them backwards, that's what I'm working with...I don't want to move ALL the pictures, so just bear with me!!

So, working from Christmas back to the middle of December, here we go!!

Christmas was great!! We ended the Season off by going to my parents house on Christmas day. It was good food, great fun, and we were majorly spoiled...THANKS EVERYONE!

Here is Lilee in her cute fur coat!!

Keat about to sink a 20 footer...haha, he loves this basketball hoop though!

Don't mess with a man and his car...WE LOVE THIS JEEP!!

This was perhaps Keat's most favorite gift this year, a train from Grandpa...and it helped that Carsten got a matching one also!!

Before heading to my parents, we opened up the gifts that Santa brought for the kids at our house. Keat was pretty bossy and we were worried that he was getting TOO into the present idea, luckily he mellowed out and we enjoyed the rest of the day.

Here is the scene the night before...boy is that room in need of some organizing!

Christmas Eve is ALWAYS spent at the Becker's...it's tradition! It's always fun to get the gang together and this year was extra special because Nick was home to enjoy all the fun! We even had a special visit from the MAN himself! Keat, as usual, we SO excited...and Santa told him he had been EXTRA good this year!

Here is Lilee not too sure about this guy...and Keat was happy as a clam!

Uncle Nick with the babes in their new Christmas pj's, courtesy of Nana!

Here is Uncle Justin and Uncle Nick with ALL their nephews and their niece! This was the best we could do!

Nick brought back these great jerseys from Argentina, so we decided to sport them on Christmas Eve...mainly because I was a slacker and didn't manage the Christmas PJ's this year...time just got away from me!

Also, I should note that this is where I spent most of the evening...on this chair...because I had JUST had my cerclage placed the day before...Merry Christmas to ME!! The procedure went great, except for the MAJOR bruising from the MULTIPLE IV attempts. Here's praying the stitch holds and we have no complications!!

The Sunday before Christmas we got together with my aunt Vicki and uncle Jerry at their home in Cave Creek. Vicki did an amazing job with dinner and we all had a great time with the gift exchange!!

Here is Lilee playing with her new aquadoodle...she LOVES this thing...it's so amazing the toys they have these days!!

Uncle Jerry with the Little Miss!

Here we are all dressed up and ready for church!

Not trying to brag or anything, but do I have the most BEAUTIFUL looking family or what?!

Awwwww, my kiddos just melt my heart!! They are the very best of friends and I'm so grateful for the tiny spirits Heavenly Father has given to me...what a blessing!

My new calling in the ward is as the co-activities day chair. The Ward Christmas party is ALWAYS a big event and this year was no exception. We had a great time and everything turned out wonderful! Here is Santa visiting all the good little boys and girls...Lilee is STARTING to warm up to the idea of this big guy...and Keat was THRILLED about the Candy Canes!

Back in AUGUST we bought tickets for the Polar Express in Williams! A week before Christmas was the big day and Keat was practically peeing himself with excitement! Unfortunately, my parents decided not to make the drive since Flagstaff was getting DUMPED on with snow. Thanks to Nick and Tyne for joining us and helping maintain the chillin's!

Here is our FREEZING COLD little family after the train ride...we just wanted to get outta there it was like 11 degrees or something...brrrrrrrrr!

Have you ever seen a sweeter picture than this?! This kid was IN LOVE...the whole movie just became real for him and it was such a special experience!

Our bundled up little family!

The GALS...tyne, lilee, and myself

Uncle Nick and Keat-Beat...he's got his robe on and everything, he was ready to go!

Little Miss Sunshine!!

So, I'm not sure how all these pictures are gonna post, but just excuse the mess this once...Now onto January...just in time for February!! Updates on the baby and the big gender ultrasound to come soon!!:)

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!

Beginning of December...

2009-01-15T12:23:00.000-08:00

Christmas festivities began early this year! We were so excited to have SO many wonderful parties and events to go to. Keaton REALLY understood this whole, Santa, Christmas, presents thing this year and it made everything THAT much more fun! Even Lilee got really into all the lights and decorations around town!

First, we were invited by the Wright's to attend their annual Christmas Block Party. What a fun time it was to chat with friends and neighbors(not ours, but you get the sentiment)! The only thing that made it even better was a visit from the MAN himself!!

Here is Keat giddy to have a picture with "Santa"...he had NO IDEA what was coming...

All of a sudden, Santa comes walking down the street...all the kids went krazy!! Everyone ran to where he sat and all kneeled or sat waiting to see what was in his BAG! Keat could NOT contain himself at this point. He waited SO patiently, but was bouncing on his knees and rocking back and forth...so cute!

Lilee's turn...NOT TOO SURE about this guy...2 seconds later she realized it was NOT someone she knew and I thought she was going to give him a knuckle sandwich...she's a bruiser!!

When Keaton's name was called he was SUCH a big boy...got up, politely walked past the rest of the kids, took his present and said, "thank you"! He was SO graceful...of course, if you know my kids, you know they are the most CLUMSY little's you will ever meet, so on his way back, it wasn't surprising that he tripped over...well, nothing...and slid about 5 feet on his present...good thing his book was still wrapped!!:) But, in grand Becker form, he simply stood up, and ignored all the parents asking if he was okay!!:)

It was a great night and we are so thankful that we were invited! Thanks Wright's!

Later that month, another Christmas tradition took place. For pretty much as long as I can remember, my dad and I have attended some sort of Christmas Music "performance"! It started out as watching the Phx Boys Choir every year, but after a while, their show got too "unique" and lacked the traditional songs we both enjoyed. From that point on we tried to find something we would like. The past two years we have decided on a performance of Handel's Messiah. Last year we went to the sing-a-long. While it was fun and I know my dad enjoys belting those songs out, it is a bit much to hear people, some of which have NO musical talent, singing their lungs out! So, this year we opted for the PROFESSIONAL version. The phoenix symphony put on an amazing performance and truly, I was in awe. I have always been very TOUCHED by music and this performance was no exception...tears were in my eyes...don't laugh! This year, I bought the tickets and my dad treated me to dinner. We went to Durants, an UBER fancy restaurant in PHX. I don't think I've eaten anywhere that pricey before. It was a nice treat, although I'm not sure how many people thought I was the "mistress"...I always try to make mention of my mom and loudly say, DAD, so people don't get the wrong idea!! Thanks Dad for a wonderful evening! Next year, same bat time, same bat place!!

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This one was just for fun because she was TOTALLY stuck. Instead of HELPING her, I yelled for Keat to grab the camera!! She was FURIOUS! That's what you get when your bum is big and you get your tiny head stuck!! I truly think she thought she was going to die...look at that face!

Then it was time for the annual "picking of the PERFECT tree" event! After a LOoooooooooNG time of searching, we found it! Here is Seth being wonderful and tying up the tree! It was SO NICE to have the van this year instead of people laughing at us all the way home with a tree hanging over the front and back of our car!!:)

And here are the kids while daddy does the MANLY work...at least they stayed quiet!

The next day we headed over to my parents for family pictures! (I'll post those in a later post). Thanks Riss for volunteering your camera and your skills! While we waited for our photographer to arrive, my dad took the kids around in the Model T! It was Keat and Lilee's first time. Not sure how Lilee enjoyed it, but Keat thought any time spent with Carsten was a blast!

That night my parents watched our munchkins while Seth and I went to his work dinner party in Scottsdale. I was VERY excited about this party. I had been feeling very PREGNANT for a while and decided to treat myself to a new outfit that actually FIT! I was looking good, Seth was looking good, free dinner and dancing, we were stoked! Until we go to the resort. The party was OUTSIDE...by the pool! Had it been 2 days before, it would have been 65-70* outside, but on this particular night, it was FREEZING...I had NO jacket, because, let's be honest, when you have a new outfit, you don't want to cover it with a jacket...duh! I was freeeeeeeeeeezing. Seth didn't even bring a jacket! Luckily for me, one of Seth's co-workers was there and had a sweater and a vest on and a jacket and let me wear his jacket. It was depressing to have a jacket 4 times too big on over my adorable new outfit, but I was SO grateful to not be shaking from the cold anymore!! All in all, it was a fun time! Thanks mom and dad for a night out!

By the time we got the tree, the kids were spent, so we didn't decorate till a few days later...for your viewing pleasure...the placing of the star on the 2008 Becker Family Christmas Tree...brought to you by RUDOLF himself!!(I apologize if anyone is offended by this picture...it was just TOO funny...and it is NO surprise that my kids spend more time than probably usual NAKED!!) Be glad I edited the photo...the original will be a GREAT one to show his future wife one day! Bwahahahahahha!

Welcome Home...

2009-01-15T12:18:00.000-08:00

I'm sure you thought I forgot about the Homecoming of Elder Becker, but you are wrong...I only forgot my camera...the day he stepped off the plane! Doh! We've gotten a few pictures, but are waiting for some more. Check back at a later date to see the reunion!

And what a reunion it was. 9 Adults, 7.25 kids, 4 signs, 1 banner and LOTS OF HUGS!!

As I've mentioned, we are SO SO proud of Nick and what he has accomplished! We are grateful for his example, especially for Keaton. We are grateful for the time we've spent with him since he's been home and wish him GREAT SUCCESS at NAU!

...don't forget to check back for pictures...in the meantime, you can find pictures on AMIE's blog just scroll back a bit...she actually keeps up with her blog!!:)

day after Thanksgiving

2009-01-15T12:05:00.000-08:00

BLACK FRIDAY

has become one of my most favorite days of the year! I will admit that it is NOT for the faint of heart...or the weak kneed...or even those that don't like to be in crowds...but it is QUITE the event.

My dear friend, Lindsey and I, have made a tradition of Black Friday. (we can call it a tradition now that we've actually done it two years in a row) We go through the ads, we make our lists, and then we leave the house at 5am!!

Typically, our adventure begins with Walmart and then we continue on to Toys R Us and by the end of the day, we've typically gone to 8-10 different stores! It may seem krazy, but Lindsey and I have a secret...I know you are DYING to know...we have FUN!

We don't care if what we want is sold, we don't worry if three people have cut in front of us in line, we don't mind when the lines take a bit longer than usual. And MORE important is what we DO...

we DO stop for bagels at Einsteins for a pick me up about 8am, we DO go to a TASTY lunch and gab for an hour(this year was PFChang's), and we ABSOLUTELY end the day by treating our toes to a much needed pedicure!

It's wonderful!

So, this year we were out from 5am to 5pm, and we came home with a car full of presents...we were BOTH glad I brought the van this year...last year's pushing and squeezing bags into the back seat was a bit ridiculous!!

Of course, there is NO time for pictures, so the only thing we have to show for our wonderful day is our loot...

THANKSGIVING

2008-12-28T11:14:00.000-08:00

SO MUCH TO BE THANKFUL FOR!!

WOW, we have been blessed! I love this time of year because it brings out the very best in people. I know so many people get annoyed with crowds and people not being patient and being overly busy...but I love it! You see what is truly important in life and you realize what changes you need to make to be better! This year has been fantastic and no exception...I feel as though I am perhaps the most blessed woman alive. Here are some reasons...

SETH...I am married to a man who I adore...respect...cherish...and above all who LOVES ME! Can it get any better than THAT?! He is a WONDERFUL daddy...so eager to spend time with our children and SO loving of their difficulties. He is incredibly patient with them and with me. I have been so blessed to marry a man who is incredible and who is my best friend!

KEATON...I am constantly being told how polite and sweet he is. Don't get me wrong...we have our tantrums and our "mean" time-out moments...but he is INCREDIBLE!! He says please and thank you. He says sorry when he does something wrong and for the most part he really listens to us. More than that though...he is a sweetheart...I am so lucky to have his sweet spirit in my home...he teaches me how to be kind and innocent! I learn so much from him and I am grateful for such a wonderful little man!!

LILEE...BOY OH BOY, she is a doll!! Amie and I talked and decided that maybe the reason there were THREE boys born at the same time was so they could all watch out for little miss Lilee!! She's gonna need some watching out for, but I'm sure she'll be able to hold her own. The girl's got SASS!! She's not gonna take nothin' from nobody and she'll make sure you know it for yourself! BUT...she's such a mommy too. She thinks she is SO MUCH older than any other baby she sees and will tickle them and laugh at them and love on them. I am so excited to see her with this new little bean!

LOGAN and ?BABY?...This pregnancy has brought back lots of emotions from being pregnant with my sweet Logan. I got pregnant this time in September and with Logan in October so I have been pregnant through many of the same holidays and happenings! I am grateful for a reminder of my sweet angel baby...for his example of perfection he has brought to my family, for his constant reminder that we WILL BE TOGETHER FOREVER! I am grateful for this new life that grows and develops...perfectly...inside of me! What a perfect plan our Heavenly Father has for us and how beautiful this miracle is!!

Although it's late, I hope you all had a very blessed and memorable Thanksgiving and took time to remember those things you have been given! From our family to yours!!

Picture Overload...

Lilee had her FIRST ice cream cone...she loved it!!

For Family Home Evening before Thanksgiving we had a lesson on what we are THANKFUL FOR. Daddy said mommy. Mommy said her kids. And Keaton said HOUSE! Then...we made THANKFUL APPLE TURKEYS! It was very yummy and I think Keat got a lot out of it!!Keaton's face is PRICELESS in this photo...he's eyeing all the goodies!
The day after Thanksgiving we went with my parents to Zoo Lights. It has become a tradition and the kids REALLY loved it this year. They got into the lights and the animals a lot more than they have before.

Keat kissing his best buddy.

Grandpa with Lilee and Carsten watching the merry go round...I thought the picture looked ARTISTIC!

Pictures with Santa...the first of the season. Keat was SO excited...Lilee was NOT so excited...

Carsten was just cute!!!

Strong and Steady at 162 bpm

2008-12-09T17:32:00.001-08:00

Well, after freaking out a little too much, I called my Dr. and asked if I could come in and find the heartbeat on the Doppler. They obliged, but told me I was ridiculous to think I could feel the baby this early. I got there. I waited. I waited. I peed. I waited. And then it happened...

I heard the most beautiful sound a mother can hear...strong and steady heartbeat at 162 beats per minute! Now I can relax...and maybe sleep. Thank you to EVERYONE who was concerned and were thinking of us. I am SO used to going to Dr's appts. every week to every other week that this once a month thing is hard to get used to. I see the Dr. for a regular appt. next week, then the stitch goes in on the 23rd...boo for a spinal on Christmas Eve Eve!!:) But yeah for peace of mind that the cerclage brings! By then, we'll celebrate Christmas and New Year's and then it'll be back to the 2 X's a month appts. to measure my cervical lengths! I'll have those until about 26 weeks and by then this little bean better be kicking my insides so that I don't have to worry!!:) Thanks again for all the prayers and well wishes...I'm a mom...we freak out...it's what we do!!:)

Oh, and I'll be sure to get RIGHT on those updates as SOON as I get a free minute...maybe this weekend??:)

Fetal Doppler?

2008-12-09T07:50:00.000-08:00

I have a LOT of catch up to do and lots to share, but I'm a little worried right now.

DOES ANYONE HAVE OR KNOW SOMEONE WHO HAS A FETAL DOPPLER?

For the last few weeks I have been feeling this little bean flutter away and the last few days NOTHING. I KNOW that it's early and I KNOW that many of you probably don't think I'm truly feeling the baby, but I felt Lilee at 13 weeks and Seth could even feel her by 14 weeks she moved so much. I don't have an appointment for a while and I'm just starting to get really worried. SO, if you have one, could I borrow it for a few hours, and I will give it RIGHT back!?!? I have spent a LOooooooooNG sleepless night waiting for this little bean to bump me but I'm not getting anything. I know all you mother's can relate with the anticipation and worry of this time in your pregnancy. Thank you!

Returning with Honor

2008-12-02T19:23:00.001-08:00

The countdown in ON!!

Tomorrow morning, at approximately 10am we will pick Elder Nick Becker up from the airport after serving an honorable mission in

Bahia Blanca, Argentina!

We are SO proud of our missionary and are very anxious to see him again. When he left, the 3 musketeers(Keat, Aiden, and Kolby) were about 9 or so months old...now they are almost THREE!

We have 2 new nephews to introduce him to, and his very first niece to show off!

As excited as we are to tell him about what has gone on the last two years, we are more excited to hear of his experiences as he has served Heavenly Father in this great capacity!

We have been blessed for his service and we pray for safe travels this night and happy landings tomorrow as the Becker's make their way to the airport!!

We love you Uncle Nick!!

Christmas Tag

2008-11-26T11:08:00.000-08:00

I took this tag from Donna...and I've gotten different versions in E-mail form. It's a fun CHRISTMAS tag!!

1. Egg Nog or Hot Chocolate? Hot, Hot, Hot...HOT CHOCOLATE(if you've seen the Polar Express, which I watch on a daily basis usually, you know what I'm talking about.)

2. Does Santa wrap presents or sit them under the tree? Wraps em!

3. Colored or white lights on tree and house? Colored...but it may be pretty to do a themed tree with white lights...hmmm

4. Do you hang mistletoe? We did the first year we were married, but let's be honest, the first year you are married, who NEEDS mistletoe?!?! :)

5. When do you put your decorations up? Usually we do it all with the tree...since all our decorations are packed with the ornaments. SO, probably a few weeks before Christmas since we live in AZ and a tree won't last longer than that!

6. What is your favorite holiday dish (excluding dessert)? Hmmmmmmmm, we don't really have anything thing that stands out...of course TURKEY is yummy and not all too common throughout the year. Idunno, I'll have to think!

7. Favorite Holiday memory as a child? My parents bought my brother and I mini Christmas trees and we each had our own ornaments for it. Then, they'd put one or two gifts under THAT tree and those were the ones we were allowed to open first, before waking them up! I loved it!

8. When and how did you learn the truth about Santa? OHhhhhhhhh, I will remember this for FOREVER!! Here's the story, I saw a pack of the yummy, kid gum, like bubblicious or something and asked my mom for a piece. She said, NO, it's for your brother. I got angry and she just told me it was because he lost a tooth...ummm, hello?? Doesn't the TOOTH FAIRY handle those things? Well, I got ANGRY and started crying and screaming(over dramatic much?) and ran into the bathroom and shouted that, "what...is Santa not real either?" to which there was silence and I cried my eyes out in the bathroom.alone.crushed for life!

9. Do you open a gift on Christmas Eve? It works out really nice because Seth's family has a big Christmas Eve tradition where my family never did, so we do Christmas over at the in laws on Christmas Eve and then Christmas morning, we have our own families Christmas and then go to my families for Christmas day, night. It's a good system!

10. How do you decorate your Christmas tree? Before we had any ornaments, we got a lot of the cheapest things we could find, which were the white, blues, silver plastic snowflakes. So, that's what the main THEME is, but we have since accumulated quite a lot more YEARLY ornaments that make it fun!

11. Snow! Love it or Dread it? Snow is great in moderation!

12. Can you ice skate? Not well, but after a few minutes I can at least stay "up"!

13. Do you remember your favorite gift? Isn't this bad, but not really. The year I got my truck was AWESOME...but I think when I was younger it was more exciting, even if the gifts were smaller.

14. What's the most important thing about the Holidays for you? Now, with my kids getting older and understanding, I love to see the wonder in Keat's eyes and the excitement. I like to teach him why we REALLY celebrate Christmas and I love watching him as he hears all the stories of Baby Jesus and His entrance into the world. He, of course digs Santa too, but it's great to have him understand the real importance!

15. What is your favorite holiday dessert? Chocolate! I love all the yummies you get in your stocking. I'm not a big pie person, so I just like the candy!! :)

16. What is your favorite holiday tradition? We don't have a lot of traditions yet...maybe we'll start this year. We try to do all the things that I did when I was younger, Zoo lights, The railroad park, Temple Lights. It's all really just such a fun time! One thing that we have done for the last few years is to get a coffee table book from Deseret. First, we got the 10 Virgins story with amazing pictures. Then, we got "God Bless Your Way" last year. And this year we got the Reflections of Christ in book form with all the amazingly depicted scenes from Christs life. It's a good way to build our library.

17. What tops your tree? A krazy star thing that matches the iridescent snowflakes!

18. Which do you prefer giving or receiving? Giving!! This year Seth and I decided no gifts for us(besides a new camera which we NEED) and we'll get our family really great gifts that they will love. It makes my day to see that happiness!

19. What is your favorite Christmas Song? There are SO many, but I really have always loved "O Holy Night" and "O Come All Ye Faithful".

20. Candy Canes! Yuck or Yum? I like the flavored ones, but the peppermint ones I could live without!

This was a great tag, and I tag anyone who wants to share their CHRISTMAS favorites with me!

Day tripper...

2008-11-18T19:19:00.001-08:00

A few weeks ago we decided to take off and head to Sedona for a few hours. Years ago, just after we were married, Seth and I found this hiking spot in Oak Creek that was PHENOMENAL!! Seriously, it was beautiful! So, we asked our good friends, the Goodman's, to join us and we all packed into the van!

For days leading up to us going, Seth would talk about the last time we went and how it rained on us and the colors were just gorgeous and blah blah blah!! Well, we find the spot, and get in a somewhat long line of cars waiting to park. Apparently, the lot was full, so people were just waiting in line as people left. Also, right as we get there, it starts to sprinkle. Soon, the rain picks up, and the line moves faster as people are coming back from hiking and getting outta the rain. We all packed lunches so we start eating...thinking the rain will quit soon, it IS Arizona, right?

After about an hour of being stifled, (remember, I'm newly pregnant, and being in a car with 4 adults and two kids is stifling!!) we decide to head back up to Sedona and walk around, sad to leave the hike behind. We begin to drive and find a spot to get out and look, so we do, it's the first time we've been outta the car in a while, and see that the rain that WAS where we just were is NOW heading to where we are NOW!! Make sense?!

Well, we figure if the rain is moving, we should go back to "the spot"! We turn around, go back and park, and the rain has let up!! YEAH, long story short, we had a WONDERFUL time and got some OKAY pictures.

Guess what Santa is bringing us this year...oh yeah, a brand new camera!!

So, enjoy the photos, sorry more didn't turn out!!

It's Handy Manny!!

2008-11-11T07:24:00.000-08:00

I forgot to tell this story. This happened last week when Keaton had Lilee in the radiology lab getting her VCUG done.

Keaton and I were waiting in the hall outside the room and an older(45-55) Hispanic/Native American man stood beside us. He was obviously waiting for someone nearby as well. At first, Keaton didn't notice him, but when he did, he started saying, VERY LOUDLY, "mom...MOM...It's HANDY MANNY"!!!

I was kinda embarrassed as it appeared the man had heard us, and tried to get Keaton to stop talking. Of course, he kept repeating himself until I acknowledged him...wow I love that stage...and by that point I was doing EVERYTHING I could to keep from laughing.

The man didn't seem too pleased. If he KNEW who Handy Manny is (a Hispanic Disney character that has a magic tool box with talking tools and they all work together to "get the job done" while teaching Spanish phrases) he probably would have laughed. BUT, if he DIDN'T know, he might have thought Keaton was referring to our paid lawn man or something like that. Of course we don't HAVE a paid lawn man, but I can see where offense may have been taken.

Either way, it was hilarious and Keaton is turning into a VERY funny little guy!!

The MIRACLE of PRAYER

2008-11-10T07:06:00.000-08:00

Okay, I am SO sorry it has taken me SO SO long to update, and I appreciate ALL those who have been so concerned about my sweet Lilee girl!

GREAT NEWS...our prayers were truly heard and answered!!

We had the VCUG(which I should clarify, is NOT surgery, it is a test to see if the kidney reflux is there). The radiologist said there was NO sign of reflux. YEAH!

Then, on Thursday, we met with the urologist who performed the surgery. She had an ultrasound to check her kidneys and be sure no damage was done during the time before or after the surgery.

The nurse called me in to the lab and showed me the ultrasound and said, "We REALLY didn't think this surgery was going to work". When they went in for the laproscopic surgery two months ago, they found that Lilee didn't have any "tubes" for ureters. The surgery consists of injecting DEFLUX into those tubes to create bulges that will be a barrier and keep the urine from splashing into her kidneys. With NO tubes to inject, they were thinking about pulling out of the surgery. However, inspired from Heavenly Father, I'M SURE, they decided to inject the DEFLUX into her bladder walls, HOPING it would create the same bulges over time. I will repeat what the nurse said, "WE REALLY DIDN'T THINK THIS SURGERY WAS GOING TO WORK!" It was the first time they'd ever done this before and it was a HUGE SUCCESS!!

I KNOW that it was a miracle.

I know that days before the test, Lilee's body was still broken, I just could feel it! I also know that I had a very special experience that showed me that Heavenly Father HAD IN DEED heard our prayers!

I am SO grateful for all who sent up prayers and asked for healing. It has been a very uplifting thing for our family to go through! THANK YOU FOR YOUR PRAYERS!! THANK YOU TO A LOVING HEAVENLY FATHER who listens to our pleas and has the power to HEAL! We are so grateful to not worry about this anymore!!! THANK YOU!!

napping early

2008-11-06T09:17:00.001-08:00

Today, Amie is watching Keaton while I take Lilee to her ultrasound appointment with the urologist. I asked Keaton this morning...

me: "Keat, do you want to go play with Aiden and Alex today?!"

Keat: "YEAHhhhhhhhh!"

me: "Okay, but you need to take naps first so that you aren't crabby, and then after you wake up it'll be about time to go play."

Keat: "okay"

I just walked into his room and he is laying on his bed...it's 10am...he doesn't nap until noon...silly kid! I guess he's pretty excited!

**Lilee's final appt is today and then I'll update on everything I hear, but so far so good. The VCUG showed no sign of reflux on Tuesday, so as long as her kidney's check out, we'll be in the clear! Updates later!!**

Lilee's tests...

2008-11-04T07:17:00.000-08:00

Today is Lilee's second VCUG! This will determine if her kidney reflux has been corrected or if the first surgery was unsuccessful. I have been sick about this for days. If her condition requires the second, MUCH MORE INVASIVE surgery, she will be in the hospital for up to a week. It is a very serious surgery and I am scared to pieces for my little miss! Seth and I know the power of prayer to be true and miraculous. We are asking all who care for Lilee to send up your prayers to Heavenly Father today, ask him to heal her and keep her safe. We, of course, pray that no surgery is needed, but if it is the only way to heal her, we pray that she will be well and it will go smoothly! Thank you for your prayers and your support. I don't think I've ever been quite so nervous about finding out the results of a test before. Seth has to go in with her for the VCUG since I can't be in the radiology room in my current condition(pregnant). I am glad he will be there with her though, I don't want her to be scared during this test! We will post tomorrow about the results as long as we find something out! Again, thank you for your prayers, they are powerful!!

Look at My Tickers

2008-11-03T09:56:00.000-08:00

Take a gander at BOTH of my tickers. The one up top of my darling growing inside of me right now...IT ACTUALLY LOOKS LIKE A BABY NOW!!! YEEEHAWWW!!

And, the one to the RIGHT...Uncle Nick will be home in ONE MONTH!!! WHOOO HOOOO!!

Halloween 2008

2008-11-03T08:16:00.000-08:00

We hope everyone had a SPOOK-TACULAR Halloween this year. I am hearing lots of wonderful things from people this year about how great their Halloween's were...and ours was no exception! We were SO busy this year and it was SO FUN!!
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Our festivities started off the week before Halloween. Lindsey and myself(mostly Lindsey) held a Murder Mystery Theater Dinner party. The Laudies had one last year that was MUCH smaller. This year, we went all out. We had 11 couples there, all who dressed up, and all who made the party such a success! We did skits, ate food, and goofed off! Thank you to Kimber for letting us use your MUCH bigger and nicer house than mine...I was relieved not to have to clean!!:) Also, thanks to Lindsey for putting SO much into this party...you did a great job and it was a great night!!

Nacho Libre(seth) and Sister Encarnación(me)

Hockey Player(andy) and Angel(amie)

Me, Mandy, Seth, and Liz

Kimber, Samara, Mandy, and Lisa

Seth and I arguing over our "affairs", Kimber, Andy, and Dave*

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The next day was the Becker Family Halloween Tradition. Every year we get together and play some games and eat some food and carve our pumpkins. Living in AZ, the pumpkins never last more than a day, but it's always fun!

I think Keaton may be the only kid who LOVES the pumpkin GOO! It took a little more prodding this year, but he thought it was funny!

Even Lilee got her hands dirty!

Admiring what she had done...

The finished products. Seth's was the pirate-ee one 2nd from left, and mine is on the table on the right. I stole the idea from the Ray's, but it is an ode to ME this year. This way I will always remember exactly what I was doing on Halloween...blech!

L-R Tinkerbell(lilee), Peter Pan(Keat), Batman(Aiden), Froggie(Kolby), and Darth Vader(Alex)

Nana with the kids

Can you get ANY sweeter than this picture!?

Kolby and Brady...the little stinker!

Some Halloween pumpkin painting!!

For those who do not know, I have been called as the Activities Committee co-chair in my ward! I absolutely LOVE this calling, it was my favorite at the institute! What can be better than planning parties with someone else's money?! :) Well, our first BIG event was the Halloween Trunk or Treat. We were successful in getting it switched to the day before Halloween this year, so we hope everyone was happy about that! So, on Thursday, we headed over the the church and opened our trunk and enjoyed chili, cornbread, chili-dogs, macaroni for the kids, and LOTS OF CANDY!! The costumes were great, and our committee really came through for us! Despite excusing myself TWICE to throw up in the ladies room, it was a wonderful night and a total success!! Since I was busy doing ward stuff that night, Seth was in charge of both kiddos which meant there wasn't a lot of time for picture taking! SORRY!

The morning after the Trunk or Treat, this is how I found Keaton. He had all his candy laid out, we're still not sure how he managed to get it off the shelf, and had sorted it! What a cutie!

Then, it was time for the big day! Keaton had been excited all week and I think he thought it was over after the trunk or treat! We headed over to Grandma and Grandpa's house since they just got back home from the high country! We were happy to see them and happy that they could see the kids for the first year in their costumes. We went door to door with a few of the close neighbors, who were very generous to greet us so early.

I love this picture of my mom and Lilee...so sweet!

Grandpa and the Twinkies!

THEN, we headed back home, picked up some pizza on the way, and made it in time to hit about 20 houses in our neighborhood. The kids managed to EACH fill their buckets a couple times this week, so we are set for the year! Lilee's costume was HUGE(I made it and got a little TULLE HAPPY)! She looked so cute walking around but wanted to go where SHE wanted to go. It was a problem at my parents house, but that night, she walked across the street and plopped herself down. She was done. So, we put her in the mini stroller and the tulle covered her whole face! She looked SO CUTE! That's where she stayed the whole hour we trick or treated! The first house we went to there was this thing that scared you and even though it scared Keaton, I don't think it would have been so bad had I not jumped and/or screamed also. Keat was convinced all dark houses were scary, so we had to coax him each time. It was fun though. Every time you asked him if Peter Pan could fly. he'd put his bucket on the ground and flap his arms...so cute!

As if the kids weren't tired enough by this point, we still had another party to go to. About 8 pm we headed over to the Boatman's home. It was decorated SO great for Halloween. They had fantastic food and even better company. Lilee perked RIGHT up and the kids spent the next half hour, at least, chasing each other in a circle! We all ate until we thought we'd burst and played until the kids couldn't take it anymore! We made it home about 10:30 and the kids crashed within seconds!

With all the business, we didn't get any pictures that night! Oh well! I'll have to get some Target photos done soon!

It really was a wonderful Halloween, and I'm so happy to have such beautiful kids to add to the excitement of the holidays! HAPPY HALLOWEEN!!

Where to start...

2008-11-03T07:28:00.000-08:00

Okay, I guess the best place is from the beginning...

A few weeks back we had a great and busy weekend. It started out by Seth and I going to his 10 year high school reunion! Now, I must say that I have been the driving force for about a year on this one...I really wanted us to go so I could "see Seth the way he was in high school". Well, I think I put a lot of expectations on good 'ol Benson high...or maybe just his particular class, because the whole event was pretty lame-o. Nothing was organized for the reunion, nobody knew the class of '99 was even there. They didn't announce them at the game, and after getting TOTALLY drenched from the POURING rain, the group(of about 25 grads and families) spent the rest of the evening catching up...at a local BAR! Needless to say, we didn't have a lot to add in that whole scene, so we took off and headed to our hotel. The nicest part of the reunion was just having Seth-ee to myself! Thanks Nana for watching our kiddos! I think maybe we'll think twice before signing up for the big 20 year reunion! :)

OH, and we didn't get a SINGLE picture of the reunion. Blame my husband for that one...I wasn't about to be the big dork insisting on catching the memories...it was up to him if he wanted a snapshot!!

Moving on...

We came back on Saturday, picked up our kids, and headed over to super target! It finally opened down the road and I'm STOKED! We got all the traveling necessities and got back home, did some laundry, RE-packed, and went to bed. Woke up early Sunday morning, and hopped in the car and traveled to our favorite getaway destination...CALIFORNIA!! This time, we left Mickey and Donald in Anaheim and took a trip with the whole Becker clan to San Diego.

We went STRAIGHT to the beach since Keaton had literally been ASKING for the beach each morning he woke up for the entire previous week! So, we hung out there for about 3 hours and let the kids run around. The water was a bit too cold to actually let them get in this time, but Keat had fun digging TUNNELS with daddy, while mom and Lilee snuggled on the blanket!

The next morning, we all woke up and headed to Sea World. THANK YOU THANK YOU to Seth's friend from work who gave us two free tickets to the park! It was awesome!! not to mention it saved us about $100. Having that many people together got a little krazy, but we had a great time! We ended the day with Chuck-E-Cheese and crashed at the hotel!

Tuesday we headed home, but not before stopping at Old Town San Diego first! Seth and I love this part of town and it was fun to let the boys run in and out of all the old houses! We got some yummy candy, ate some yummy Mexican food, and settled in for a long car ride home! It was a great weekend and though we were REALLY tired, it was worth it!! Again, we didn't get a LOT of pictures at Sea world, so just imagine two ADORABLE kids and lots of sea life...it was fun!!

Here are some pictures we DID manage to take!

The BEACH

Waiting in line at Sea World

The boys were being serenaded and thought it was HILARIOUS!

Look at that belly!! It's almost as big as the pumpkins!

My little Twinkies...oh how I love them!

.....

2008-10-31T09:33:00.000-07:00

I know...I know...I promised pictures, but alas, we don't always get what we want, now do we?!?! :) I will get to that this weekend, once we have pictures from all our Halloween events, but until then, know that I am not neglecting my blog because I am spending all day in pure bliss...no...I am preoccupied with trying to keep my breakfast, lunch, dinner, snacks, water, etc from coming back to the surface every 5 minutes...if you know what I mean!!:) I'll leave the rest of the details to your imagination. Feel sorry for me, feel sorry for my poor family who hasn't had a decent meal in 2 weeks and who live in a house that could otherwise be described as a home for PIGS...but know we are grateful for the end result in all of this...now if I could JUST get past this stage!!:) I will be back to post all our happenings and our adventures, but have pity on me for the moment until then, would you?!! :)

It's Official...

2008-10-18T16:16:00.000-07:00

SHE'S WALKING!!!!

Lilee is completely walking...finally! She still looks ADORABLE with her new found motility as she wobbles and balances with her arms outstretched, but she's doing it!! Now she's gonna turn into a string bean just like her brother...booo...I'm gonna miss her baby chub!!

More updates to come and whatever pictures we managed to take while in San Diego this past weekend. There aren't many...but I'll see what I can do!!

Until then...

Birthday Pictures

2008-10-08T15:41:00.000-07:00

My sweet girl had two celebrations this year! Grandma and Grandpa Francois were up at Grandpa's 50th high school reunion in Minnesota this year, so they had a party for Lilee and Seth when they got back into town.
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On September 27th, all those who could, gathered at Peter Piper Pizza. Keat was excited about it alllll morning. We had friends and family there to help Lilee celebrate! She was a bit confused by the fuss over her but seemed to have a good time.

The birthday girl enjoying some pizza!

The Carney's

My handsome man...boy did he look grown up that day!

Samara and Lilee

This is about the extent of Lilee's present opening abilities...although partly due to her older brother stealing them all to open them first!

Some of her favorite gifts were these two Disney Dolls, one being Snow White and one being Tinkerbell...you can see how enamored she is by them!

Lilee with her cake. I had big dreams for this cake and NOTHING worked(Steph...this picture is for you). It turned out okay, but NOTHING like I had wanted. You live, you learn!

Daddy and Lilee in her B-day shirt

She kept wanting to GRAB the flame...this was about as interested as she got with her cake

Eddie trying to help her get INTERESTED in eating the darn thing

A little help from Daddy...just stick your hand in there!!

Finally, she thought she'd try some!

Then, On October 4th, friends and family again gathered at the Francois abode to watch our little lady shine once again! It was great to see family that we don't see very often and we want to thank those who drove long distances to be there with us at that time!

Proof that Lilee can, in deed, walk!!

Loving the new book

Lilee and her Boa...she was terrified of this thing!

A much better start to the cake...

Getting REALLY excited this time...

The face to prove her excitement!!

We also felt that since we were already celebrating, why not add one more thing to the mix and we told our families that we were again expecting! Here is the scoop on that: Baby Becker is DUE to arrive on June 7th, 2009!

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We have decided NOT to find out gender this time and instead of taunting and discouraging us, why not encourage us on this decision!! :) We're pretty set on the idea, but there are those who don't think we will hold out. Although in my own defense I must say that most women only have one ultrasound during their pregnancy and saying "NO" once is definitely do-able. However, due to my high risk pregnancies, I have 20-25 ultrasounds...about 22 of which they can tell gender in. SO...it's gonna be tough, but I always have wanted to experience that moment that you find out what they are WHEN they are born feeling!

Keaton is MUCH more aware this time and knows where the baby is at right now. He says it's a girl EVERY time we ask him. I have always thought it would be a girl, but with one of each, we really have no preference. We're just praying for a healthy little bean that will grow and develop properly and a body that will provide a place to do all of that in!
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We are pretty set on a boy name...BROOX STEPHEN. Seth has ALWAYS wanted a boy name that had an X or a Z in it that wasn't common, so when we thought of this one, we just fell in love. We think Broox Becker sounds awesome! We are a bit undecided for girls, although we THINK we have narrowed it down to three(of course this list is subject to change in the next 9 months). SAVANNAH JEAN, NORA JEAN, and ASHLIN JEAN. My favorite is Nora, but Seth isn't quite sold and so we are leaning more toward Ashlin!

Guess we'll just have to wait and see!!

I am currently feeling okay. I don't *think* the morning sickness has hit yet, but I am not exactly myself. Seth is being a trooper and not complaining about the messy house or the undone laundry and finds something to help me with each night he gets home!

Man do I love that man!

Thanks for all the congratulations and well wishes. We are EXTREMELY excited and a TAD nervous to have 3 children who are BARELY 3 and younger! We'll be busy but life is meant to be enjoyed and what better way to walk through life than with the innocence that a young child brings!?

Please keep us in your prayers that this pregnancy runs smoothly and we have no complications. Each pregnancy I find myself thinking of my dear sweet Logan. I know that he is smiling as we receive each one of these new blessings into our home and our hearts. I worry about the "what-ifs" and the things that "could" happen, but I trust that my Heavenly Father's plan for me is perfect and I put my faith in Him to bring this child safely to our arms while he holds our Logan for us until we are able to again!

We'll keep you all posted!

A New Addition to the family

2008-10-01T13:48:00.000-07:00

Here's the story. Many of you know that for some time now, we have been "looking" at larger vehicles for our family. By looking, I mean, I am ready to sign my life away and Seth is waving at me from the car as he drives outta the dealership!! :)

We originally LOVED the Toyota Sienna. This was back about a year ago and we didn't really look into it too much. We both felt it wasn't a necessary purchase at the time and we should wait.

About 6 months later I started nagging again and this time we started looking at the Nissan Quest. It was a very stylish minivan. We went and looked at a used one but it really didn't have all the "little things" that we wanted. I told Seth that I really wanted a NEW van since it would have to last us roughly our middle aged lives!! Without sounding too spoiled and bratty, I think he understood. Again, however, we didn't feel it was the right time.

A couple months later, Seth came home and said that with gas prices going up up up, we should look into an SUV since their prices were going down down down! We found the GMC Acadia. It gets the EXACT same gas mileage as the Honda Odyssey. AWESOME! Fell in love...Seth called it "SEXY"!! :) It was perfect...just not PERFECT for us! It would be an AWESOME vehicle for a family that was set on having TWO kids, but with two in car seats, we wouldn't be able to access the third row.

BUMMER!!!!!

We were outta luck again. However, after this, Seth was more into the "buying" stage and we really started to do our research.

Knowing what WOULDN'T work really helped us to decide and find something that WOULD work...the TOYOTA SIENNA!! It was perfect...even for us!! We really came full circle and ended up deciding on the vehicle we first fell in love with.

Getting it here wasn't quite as cut and dry...

Toyota is having INSANE incentives on '08 vehicles right now to get rid of them. So, being the exact same model as the '09, we opted for the incentives. PROBLEM: NO '08 8 PASSENGER TOYOTA SIENNA'S IN THE STATE OF ARIZONA!! What?! How can that be possible?! We're still not sure how that all happened, but we finally found a broker who found the van in NEVADA. It was FLOWN to Arizona the next day!

SO....long story short....last week we got THIS:

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And the next morning we got THIS:

Thank goodness we opted for the 8 passenger!!

And you thought the "new addition" was just the van...didn't you?!?!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY Lilee Renee

2008-09-29T08:16:00.000-07:00

I cannot believe that I started this blog to announce the arrival of our little BEAUTY to the world! I cannot believe that she is ONE YEAR OLD already! Lilee turned ONE on Saturday!! Where has the time gone?! I also cannot remember what life was like before she blessed our family with her presence! What a gift she has been...we love her!!

Lilee is one of the most beautiful little girls I have ever seen...I know I am biased, but it's also just the truth!!:)

Lilee has an infectious laugh and smile...she has started to give this super cheeser smile where she squints her eyes and shows her teeth!!

Lilee and Keaton are best friends...I can't believe how well they get along despite her being only one! She plays with him like a pro and has become quite the "car" girl. She can "vroom" with Keaton all day long!!

Lilee is a sweetheart...she smacks her lips to give kisses, will smooch any baby she sees, and she gives the most gigantic hugs for a one year old...we love our little snuggle bug!

Lilee is DRAMA...we knew having a girl would be krazy when she was 13, but 1? :) Lilee can fake cry/scream like she's 3!! Everything is the end of the world, but she is that much happier when we "fix" the problem!!

Lilee is such a hoot...she does the most random and funny things sometimes it is just hilarious!! Sometimes she stands on her head to watch everyone, or when you are talking to her she will start shaking her head NO and then crawl away!!:)

Lilee is STUBBORN..wowza. She CAN walk...absolutely, she has been standing up and walking around furniture since she was 6 months old...but Lilee WON'T walk. When you stand her up, she doesn't fall, she sits!! She knows she is a master crawler and absolutely refuses to get from A to B walking! I keep telling her that a 16 year old going on their first date may not have many more when they crawl to the car!!:)

Lilee is precious!! She has brought such joy to our family and our life is SO much more enriched to have her with us! We all adore her and are excited to watch her grow!

ONE YEAR STATS:

22lbs and 10oz=50-75th%

32 inches long=off the charts!

Here are my favorite pictures of Lilee!!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!

WE LOVE YOU LILEE RENEE!!

Finally...

2008-09-25T08:39:00.000-07:00

*sigh*

This week has just been insane! I wanted to get my pictures up on Monday...no such luck...Tuesday was worse! Wednesday got away from me and here we are on Thursday and I'm bound and determined to get our Disneyland Vacation up and out there for the world to see...okay maybe it's just like 2 of you who take a gander at this here blog every so often...mom!!:)

Either way...let us begin!!!

We left at 5am on Thursday morning...boy do I NOT do mornings, but it wasn't nearly as bad as I thought it would be. Keat didn't sleep, and Lilee took a little snooze just before stopping for breakfast! It was the perfect time to stop because the kids got to get out, but there was still a good hour and a half to drive so they BOTH slept all the way to the hotel! We stayed at a hotel that we stayed at before and found out that it was undergoing some construction. Oh well...because of the upheaval...they provided breakfast every morning, a shuttle to another hotel's pool and other little goodies that we really didn't take advantage of!! It was great! We also talked them into giving us a free refrigerator...Yahoo!! Got slightly unpacked, organized the backpacks, and boarded the shuttle to Disneyland about noon. Keat was so excited we thought he might just pee his pants...oh wait, he did...good thing he's still in diapers!!:) The park was DEAD! It was wonderful...we got to go on ALL the kiddie rides that are usually so ridiculously packed we've never even TRIED to wait in line! The kids loved it and were so great!! We stayed till about 7 that night and then went and got a quick bite to eat. While there, Keaton showed us that he can sleep WHILE sitting completely upright...it was hilarious...poor tired little guy!

He RAN up to Buzz and gave him a hug...it was SO cute...we didn't even tell him to...a boy and his HERO!!

Riding the cars...you can only see the top of his head!!:)

Meeting Mickey...Keat was SO happy

He gave him a BIG kiss on the nose...so cute!

Driving...scary!

Aren't they SO cute?!

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Next day, Friday, we were on the shuttle to D-land by 9am. We did CA Adventures this time and Keat had a GREAT time on the new Toy Story Mania ride...it's definitely a new favorite of the Becker Family...hands down! It was H.O.T. and while there they have a little splash pad in the Bugs Life area. Keat was SOAKED!! Wish we'd brought his flip flops THAT DAY! His shoes were dripping, socks were undryable, diaper burst from being so wet...it was insane. We eventually had to buy $12 socks just so his feet didn't peel right off from being so pruny! The day really kinda got away from us...it was a lot of fun. We watched the Pixar parade at CA A and the fireworks at the end of the night at D land! The kids had pretty much had it by then and we were all eager to get back to the hotel! LOooooooooooNG wonderful day!

Keaton thought it was Mickey again...he figured it out pretty fast though!!

They have this whole area to just climb around and such...Keat loved it!

This is how we got such good seats for the parade...they slept and we ATE for an hour!! It couldn't have worked out more perfectly!!:)

Saturday, we got ready and met some friends at Newport Beach! IT WAS AWESOME!! I forgot how much I loved the beach when I was younger. Last year we took Keat to the beach and he HATED the water, LOVED the sand...it is truly what inspired us to build him his sand box! Well, when we pulled up to park, he saw the water and yelled, THE BEACH! We didn't know he knew what it was...and then he said, "it's a sandbox"!! So funny! Incidentally, when we came back home and he looked at his sand box, he said, "no beach"! :) Well, this year was TOTALLY different. Keat ran so fast into the ocean we could barely catch him and eventually fell completely under. Didn't phase him...he loved it! Lilee INSISTED on CRAWLING in, she didn't want us to "walk" her in...she wanted to do it on her own...and she did! She'd crawl as fast as she could, when a wave came in, she'd turn her back to it so it wouldn't splash her face, then as soon as it went back out, she'd crawl further into the water!! How did I get such dare devils!?

Look how EAGER my kids are. This is Lilee before we thought she'd even wanna go in...notice the cute outfit, NO swimsuit...yeah, wait to see how she ended up!

I LURVE this picture of my cuties!!

Despite my booty sticking WAY out, I love this photo of our cute little family!!

Awwwww...cute cute cute!

And HERE is how she ended up!!:)

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That night my friends were gracious enough to let us stay at their house...even through Lilee's fits at night...really, Lilee's sleeping was the ONLY downside of the whole trip! We all got up and my friend Ashley suggested that we go to this Apple Orchard up in the mountains...we are SO glad we did! It was one of my favorite parts of the trip...it was so incredible to be at the beach one day and the CA mountains the next...it felt like FALL, we even got to put sweaters on the little girls!! It was awesome! The boys picked apples and berries, which are DELICIOUS, and we all just had a great time! THANKS again Ashley and Jake for showing us such a good time. Sorry again for the horrendous dining experience and long night...we'll know better next time than to take a child who hasn't had a nap AND spent the entire day at the beach to a nice restaurant!!:) After the apple picking, we packed up and headed home! We got home later than planned but it was expected!! It really was a GREAT VACATION!! We can't wait to go back!!

Lilee and Ashley's little lady, Ella

Just Monkeying around!!

Keat rode the horse ALL BY HIMSELF...he was so cute!

Daddy/Daughter

Ashley and Ella...this picture needs to be FRAMED!

Mmmmmmmmmmm...

...Coooooooooorn

Best Buddies

Me and Ash...thanks again guys!!

*****DISCLAIMER*****If you liked or even LOVED the bows you have seen in today's post, be sure to check out the link to Ashley's blog(ashley and jake). THERE, you will find a link to her WONDERFUL site where you can buy her VERY reasonably priced bows...she whipped two up for Lilee in 5 minutes flat!! She's amazing!

just stoppin' by...

2008-09-22T08:04:00.001-07:00

We are BAaaaaaaaaaCK...from another FUN FILLED Disneyland Vacation...this time we brought the kids!! I have LOTS to do and MORE to unpack...I'll be back to update everyone!!

OH...my BABY IS GOING TO BE ONE ON SATURDAY...WAaaaaaaaaaa!! So sad! :(

My mom is blogging this...

2008-09-16T08:59:00.000-07:00

Okay...how many of you that thought you'd NEVER get into blogging are now TOTALLY and COMPLETELY obsessed?! Oh yeah! I am in that bunch also. I have a friend who runs his own T-shirt making business...if you've seen or own one of the shirts we got for our "Leaping for Logan" March of Dimes team, you know how good he is! Well, the other day I came across a shirt that said,

"My Mom is Blogging This"

That has GOT to be the cutest thing I've ever seen, and I've GOT to have one. Well, Richard can make them, any style or color shirt and lettering. Of course, they are MUCH more affordable if many people buy them.

SOooo, here are my questions...If I have him make the screen to fit child shirts and even onsies(I think), would you buy them?! I am thinking I would like one for Keat AND Lilee. Do we do a girl color shirt with black lettering AND a boy color shirt with black lettering, or go neutral with a white or grey color shirt and different color lettering?

Post in my comment box if you would like one, the size and your ideas for color! If we get enough people to get the shirts down to a doable price then I'll let you all know and I'll get the order in.

*I am NOT making a profit from these, just so you know, I just am trying to get the price of the shirt down a bit by having more people order the same shirt.

**Remember, these could be a great Christmas/Birthday gift for fellow blogging addicts that we all know!!

Our "buddy"

2008-09-16T08:15:00.000-07:00

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Whenever Keaton and daddy get together you can be sure two things are happening...lots of FUN and lots of the word "BUDDY"! Since Keat was born, Seth has called him buddy when they are goofing around or whatever. "can you get such and such buddy"..."Thanks, buddy"..."I'm gonna get ya buddy"!
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Well, lately, Keat has turned the tables and calls both of us BUDDY all the time...it's so cute!! If you ask him for something or if you do something he has asked, he replies, "Here ya go, buddy"..."Thank you buddy"!! I catch him all the time and say, "who am I"...I have to remind him that I'm MOMMY, not BUDDY!! He really is our little buddy though!
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So much more independent and SUCH a dare devil. The kid is not afraid of anything...except a dark room or tunnel!! He's the first to concoct some krazy scheme of "flying" or tumbling or just about anything. Luckily(did I just say that) for us, Lilee is the same way, so the two of them can spend hours together laughing their heads off as Keat dances around the room falling into any and everything!! When she is sturdy on her feet, we're gonna be in trouble.
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Yep, that's right...Lilee is STILL NOT WALKING!!
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The little goof has been standing up and "walking" around furniture since she was SIX months old...she can TOTALLY walk if she wanted to...and she has even taken as many as 4 steps (1st step taken on September 4th) and can stand alone for however long...BUT SHE JUST WON'T WALK!! I know I'm gonna get about a dozen posts about how it's a good thing and it's better that she not walk now...blah blah blah!! I want her to walk. She's at the point where she doesn't want to crawl, she wants to hold onto my fingers and walk, so just get 'er done already!!
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I really wanted her to be walking by her 1st birthday, so we've got less than 2 weeks!! tick tock tick tock!! She's so stubborn, she could be crawling when she is 16!! We love her though...she's just the sweetest little lady. And she's still cute as EVER!!
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I love my kids...how did I get so blessed?! What did I do to deserve such wonderful little people in my life?! I always knew that motherhood was something I wanted to experience, but who knew it would be "THE" experience of my life...the most important thing to ever happen to me.
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I'm so grateful for my little family...so grateful for the chaos(it means we are healthy and happy)...so grateful for the tight money(it means we have LOTS and are able to share)...so grateful for the headache(it means I get more kisses from my kids and I can appreciate life more when it's over)...and so grateful for my role as a mother(of course, it helps to have the most supportive man in the world by my side encouraging me each day that this is the greatest calling in the world...I love you Seth)!
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Why it's best to talk to the Doctor...

2008-09-15T08:20:00.000-07:00

I have a tendency to freak out, overreact, jump to conclusions...and it has only gotten worse since having my children. I want only the best for them and when I feel as though they (or myself) have been cheated in any way, I attack!!

After writing the post about Lilee's surgery, and reading all the concerned comments, I realized that I needed to talk to a Dr. and figure out exactly what went wrong. SO, I called. I talked to a nurse. I felt like I was getting the run around. I panicked and went on defense mode. Another nurse called me. I told her I needed answers and I needed them now. Another nurse called me, "I have Dr. Argueso here right now, would you like to talk to him?" OF COURSE I WOULD!! I was a bit nervous at first. When Dr. Argueso handled Keat's surgery when he was a baby, I loved him. He was awesome. Dealing with him this time in the office for Lilee was a little less than desired. I already had a bad taste in my mouth and was worried he wouldn't be honest with me. BOY WAS I WRONG. HE WAS FABULOUS!! I told him what I had understood by what he had told me. HE APOLOGIZED to ME and said that when he gets in the zone of doing surgeries(they do a TON in a row right after each other on Monday and Fridays) he often forgets to give parents all the details that they need. He also told me later that 80% of his job is dealing with concerned moms and that he has been married 28 years and he KNOWS the mind of a woman and he completely understood my worry. He was happy to set the record straight!! It was great to get some better answers. So, here is what I know!

Lilee's "condition" did NOT get WORSE. It is still a level 2. When they go in for surgery, it is like another test that they can't do any other way than going in. During Lilee's surgery, they discovered that Lilee had no "branches" to her ureters. This is what he meant when he told us that "it went all the way up". What they do during a DEFLUX(which is what Lilee's surgery is called) is inject a liquid into the branches to inflate them and create a barrier to keep the urine from splashing into the kidneys. However, if you don't have the branches to inflate, it creates much more difficulty, which is what happened in Lilee's case. That is why we have to get her tested again for REFLUX in 2 months. If it has gone away, GREAT...the DEFLUX worked and we're good to go. If it hasn't, we will need to resort to open surgery to go in and actually CORRECT the problem. Dr. Argueso told me that you kind of have to look at the DEFLUX procedure as a stepping stone. It is just another "step" in finding out what to do. So, hopefully it works and we don't have to go back and put Lilee through any more.

Prayers are still very welcome! It's great to know Lilee is in good hands and that she is being cared for in the best possible way! There's the update!!

In other news, the migraine is gone...after 5 days of the yuckies, it is COMPLETELY GONE!! I got in to see a neurologist. We will be running some tests to figure out if everything is okay and the best way to treat me. Unfortunately, we'll have to put our baby making attempts on hold for the moment to get all the tests done. I know Heavenly Father has a plan and this is just part of it for us. It will happen when it is meant to happen.

Happy Happy Day

2008-09-10T12:52:00.000-07:00

HAPPY 65th BIRTHDAY ROGER!!!

Thanks for being such a great working buddy to my Seth!!

ps. A little razzing never hurt anyone!!

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HAPPY 21st BIRTHDAY SAMARA!!

WOW, you are legal...a whole lotta good that will do ya!!:)

Thank you for being such a great friend...one of my very bestest!!

Here are some pictures from Samara's surprise party...which was a bust because we totally forgot to SURPRISE her...although she still seemed to enjoy herself and we all had a great time!! Happy Birthday again Samara!!

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Richard and Lilee

(L-R) Mike, Eddie, Samara, and BJ

Eddie and the birthday girl

Seth and Keat

(L-R) Lindsey, Amy, and Liz

The latest and NOT SO greatest!

2008-09-09T10:17:00.000-07:00

The title is not really a great way to start a post off right, but we've been in a hole lately!!

Without going into EXTREME detail, I have had a SEVERE...TERRIBLE...THE WORST MIGRAINE OF MY LIFE since Friday. Sometimes it was worse than others, but come Saturday night and all day Sunday, I thought I was going to DIE! I cried for hours because of the pain. My kids didn't know me this weekend because I was in bed all day. Along with it I had fevers and chills and body aches. I couldn't figure out what was wrong. Also, this past month, my normal migraines of one a week or so, got to be as frequent as about every other day. SO, by Sunday evening, shoving EVERY POSSIBLE medicine I could think of into my mouth, and NO sign of even the SLIGHTEST relief, Seth took me to the ER. THANK YOU NANA FOR WATCHING OUR BABIES...we really appreciate it!! After urine and blood samples, having a LOooooooooooooNG Q-tip shoved through my nose to "swipe" my throat, chest X-rays, a CAT scan, and an IV with fluids and SIX, yep, SIX different pain medicine, I left with no answers(everything was clear) and no relief. I woke up at 4:30 am (an hour before having to be up for Lilee's surgery...more on that later) and I was in EXCRUCIATING pain. We searched all our "old" medicines and came upon some Tylenol with Codeine that hadn't expired. I popped the pills and woke up at 5:30 feeling the FIRST bit of relief I had in DAYS!! It was wonderful. Unfortunately...I had to keep taking the codeine all day yesterday to ward off the nasty migraine which was fine since Seth was home...but today, codeine will just NOT due. SO, since I STILL have this nasty thing and since I am nauseous beyond belief, I am taking Midrin, a prescription I got at the hospital, and it's "helping"! At this point, I'll take it. ANY advice out there on how to alleviate migraines I will TAKE IT ALL!!!

SO, We get Lilee to surgery at 7:30, she goes in at 8:30, the Dr. comes out by 9 and says, he's done and it went well. GOOD. Then he says, "there was one little thing though". OKAY. Apparently, when they went in they were expecting to work on a level TWO reflux...what they found was a level SIX...only the HIGHEST it goes on the scale. SO, this is when I can either freak out or count my blessings. Blessing ONE...I am SO SO grateful that I pushed and pushed to have the surgery. Since Lilee's reflux affects BOTH her kidneys, had we chosen to do the medicine route and "hope" it corrected itself, Lilee could have had complete kidney failure by the time they figured anything out...by TWO!!! That is just insane, I am SO grateful that I persisted and made them listen to me! I am also feeling so blessed that it didn't cause more damage in the time that she has had it. Here is the bummer though. This particular surgery is only done for patients who have a low grade of the reflux. Someone with Lilee's severity would NEVER be given this surgery. SO, there is a 50-50 chance it will work. We'll go back in 2 months to test her reflux again and see if it's gotten better. If not, she'll need the full on super invasive surgery to heal everything completely. YIKES! I'm a little bit annoyed with everyone involved in this whole process. How could she have been misdiagnosed SO SEVERELY?! I'm also really upset with the urologist performing the surgery. It is HIS job to look over the films that the radiologist sends him and make sure for himself that the reading is accurate, not just take the radiologists word for it. OBVIOUSLY nobody took a lot of time with my daughter's tests, and unfortunately she is the one paying for it. Of course, everything may heal itself and we won't have to worry about any of this, but it is still all very frustrating for me. As for Lilee...she is happy as a clam!! I swear, she slept 4 hours, woke up and has been a DOLL every since!! I love that little girl!!! Prayers prayers and more prayers are asked on her behalf...especially that this surgery WILL work and she won't need to worry about anything more in the future!!

That's us! At least two of us. More to come on Seth and Keat later!!

Back to blogging!!

2008-09-09T09:17:00.000-07:00

Can you say BLOGGING SLUMP?! I think that's what you'd call not having even the teeniest desire to blog or having anything to blog about for that matter. *sigh* Such is life.

Two weeks ago, Seth and I had the WONDERFUL opportunity to head to California for a couple days. Thanks SO much to our GREAT friends the Laudies and the Goodmans for being so willing to take our twinkies for the 3 nights we were gone!! What a great time we had walking around Disneyland, not worrying about sleep schedules and monitoring what rides we COULDN'T walk by in fear Keat would want to ride but can't because he isn't tall enough and holding hands and riding adult rides TOGETHER...it was SO NICE!! OH, and not to mention sleeping the WHOLE night...that was a dream!! We FLEW out on Tuesday evening and flew back Friday afternoon. It was seriously SO MUCH FUN and such a great break for Seth and I. It felt like we were celebrating our honeymoon, not our anniversary...of course it helps that we look like we COULD be celebrating our honeymoon...the guy at the front desk gave us a suite because he thought we had just been married...sometimes it pays to look like you're 16. (of course it has recently been brought to my attention that SETH looks like he's 16, I am an aged 17 now!!! Dang kids...they sure age a woman!!) It was a great time and I think it was really important for Seth and I to have this time!! Here are some photos!! OH...and notice my HAIR in the photos...I haven't posted pictures since getting my bangs...ooh lala!!

I have been working on my posture lately...but it just looks like I'm trying to stick out my chest in most of these pictures!! :)

Waiting in line...

HAHAHAHHA...look at our faces!!

My little ham!!

Had to get a shot with our buddy Buzz for Keat beat!!

As the guy was taking this picture, Seth said, "it smells like Pooh"

A running shot with the Goof...krazy guy!!

The quintessential Disneyland photo...there's that posture again!!

"N" is for NIKKI:)

Now we just can't wait to go back WITH the kids!!!

Some laughter

2008-08-22T09:01:00.000-07:00

Here are some of my latest "need a laugh" clips!! Enjoy...they are all youtube...so you won't get a virus or anything, I just don't know how to add video, so this is the next best thing!!

Wrinkles should merely indicate where smiles have been.-- Mark Twain

This is a SPOOF that Steve Nash and Baron Davis entered into a website that does weird contests...freakin' HILARIOUS!!!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G7Od4H9uIJ8

If you are Mormon, you'll LURVE this...if not, you may just LOVE it, but either way, it's stinkin' funny!!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Et1rrpYpA0o

And we'll end with one that will forever be a favorite now...Seth and I watched it a couple times and just laughed...it helps that they have an ADORABLE accent...you just wanna squeeze his cheekers!!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_OBlgSz8sSM

I hope you've laughed today!!

Be still my heart...

2008-08-21T08:59:00.001-07:00

This is Keaton's first EVER prayer that he said from start to finish without ANY help or guidance!!

"Fadder...day...fadder...Deesus...Deesus...amen"

I can only assume he was saying, "Dear Heavenly FATHER, thank you for this DAY, dear FATHER, thank you for JESUS, in the name of JESUS Christ, AMEN"!!

I love my little man so much...he is growing and developing and TALKING so much...my heart smiles EVERY time I see him...even if it is as he dumps a box of cheezits on the floor...sigh!

The Little Moments...

2008-08-05T11:53:00.000-07:00

Life is krazy...it's no more krazy for me than any of you, I'm sure...but it's krazy none the less. My goal this last week was to LIVE in the LITTLE MOMENTS of life. Sounds kinda stupid, but I have found myself spending WAY too much time in a daze. I watch things happen...my kids make me laugh, but I don't LAUGH...not really. But, when they make me upset...boy do I show them THAT!! I've been bitten by the guilt BUG...and bad. Ask anyone close to me and they will tell you that I am the FIRST to admit my faults...believe me, there are a dozen and a half things I need to start working on...like...NOW!! I'm not the wife I'd LIKE to be...boy does Seth know THAT!! :) But more importantly, I'm not the mom I'd LIKE to be. I want to EXPERIENCE my children...every moment, not just watch it all go by. I don't want to regret that I didn't take them here or watch that movie with them or read that book to them or take every opportunity to show them how much I love them. SO, that takes me back to my GOAL...LIVE IN THE LITTLE MOMENTS OF LIFE! Here's what I discovered:

**My heart SMILES when Keaton holds onto my hand AFTER we cross the street...he doesn't HAVE to once we are free from the danger of cars...but he does. He won't forever, I know this. When he realizes it, he quickly lets go and says, "no more hand"...but for those few moments before he notices, I will squeeze his hand a little tighter now.

**scriptures in the morning can make or break my day. It's not a lot right now...but even just 5 minutes makes me a MUCH more loving and easy going mommy.

**It means JUST as much to have a friend think of me and call or write as it does for ME to call or write a friend. The ties I've made in my life extend very far and it's something I pride myself on. Seth tells me that once I call someone a friend, it's for life. I work hard to maintain friendships and it makes me happy to do so. I find peace in catching up and joking about old times.

**Potty training a 2 1/2 year old BOY, who doesn't communicate well, can't pull his underwear UP or DOWN, and doesn't REALLY care if he is wet or dry is difficult...but the rewards, even if not complete success, are amazing. We've spent a LOT of time together this week...we've had to say NO to opportunities to get out of the house...and I really think it's brought Keat and I closer together. His communication has improved SO much this last week. He had a completely DRY couple of days and I truly think we're making progress!! Yeah!!

**The gym IS my friend. I joined a gym this last week. Whoo Hoo!! The last time I worked out at a gym was at NAU with my roommates. We did strength training and I WAY overdid it...and threw up(don't laugh Tiff or Stef...we were ALL dying as I remember it!!). Before that, I hadn't done any real physical activity since freshman PE class!! I was a bit scared, but so far so good!!

**Running on an elliptical for half an hour, sweaty, smelly, and panting...IS sexy...if done with your husband!! I've really enjoyed the time Seth and I have taken to work out together. Not a lot of talking, but just closeness. It's been nice to see each other in a different element...mine being the COMPLETELY out of shape, birthed 3 children, stay at home mom and Seth's being the I play basketball upwards of 3 times a week, been in shape SINCE kindergarten, active man!! It's like my own personal trainer!!:)

**Hearing the first remnants of sentences from your child will make you LAUGH...whether it be because you don't FULLY understand what they are saying, you know what they are TRYING to say, it TRULY is something funny, or you are just so deliriously happy that after 2 1/2 years you are seeing a glimpse into their world...you just LAUGH!!

**Lilee is a very special little girl. I may be a bit partial here, but it's my blog so I'm allowed. All of my children are special, don't get me wrong...but there is just SOMETHING about Lilee that makes people love her. Since she has been born people ALWAYS notice her. At Disneyland where there are CUuuuuuuTE kids ALL OVER the place...people are drawn to HER. They notice HER eyes or HER smile or just SOMETHING...idunno, but every time it happens Seth and I just smile at each other. And we're not talking the young girls that are so smitten with babies they could squeal...we're talking young MEN and BURLY men and moms who are toting 5 children of their own and really probably could puke if they saw another child...but they LOVE HER...and so do we!!!

**Nothing...I repeat NOTHING is better than watching your kids love each other. They really have started to "PLAY" and interact now and I love it! Keat is an AMAZING big brother, and in good little sister form...Lilee is GREAT at annoying Keaton! While he does snap every so often and yell and whine...he usually just takes it and eventually turns it into a game...they are best buddies!!

**Life may not be what you expected or it may be EXACTLY what you always thought it would be...but it is definitely what you make of it. I am learning to prioritize and worry about what I can and set aside what I can't! It's been hard, and I'm not nearly where I should be...I have many things to learn! I am, however, grateful for the opportunity to learn and to progress, and to be better.

As promised...a picture overload!!!

At the Splash Pad one evening. Lilee loves the water!!
We went to the PHX Children's Museum last month...it was awesome!! Keat loved it! We're hoping Grandma gets a membership for Lilee or Keat's birthday this year...wink wink!!:)

After the museum...he just CRASHED on the floor in the hallway...I even almost stepped on him!!

Hard to see it, but it's there...a PONY TAIL!!!

A play date with my roommate from NAU...Lilee and Nathan...they are too cute together!

Keat and Freeman...they were pretty cute together also!!

We went to Friday Night Fun at the PHX zoo a couple weeks ago. They have inflatable water slides and games and activities all evening long. Keat had a BLAST...Lilee enjoyed the water too...Seth and I MELTED!!! The reason they can have water activities after dark is because it's still 110* after dark...ONLY IN ARIZONA!! This is Keat going off the toddler slide...about 10 foot slide!!

Here is the LAME picture of him coming down the BIG slide...you can see JUST how big it is in this picture...it was like 30 feet or something. He climbed up ALL by himself and slid down ALL by himself...even some older kids were backing out once they got to the top...he's our little dare devil!! NO FEAR!!

We need a sign for our front door now that says, "Rock Band Zone"! Seth bought the legendary game for the Wii and it's been a blast!! Here is some of us at the Becker Sunday dinner...rockin' out to who knows what band!!

Amie took vocals, Dan on drums, and Seth with the guitar!

Mandy's friend doin' vocals, Mandy on drums, and me and my BAD posture with the guitar!

Have you EVER seen a funnier picture?! One day during potty training Keat ran out with his Mickey Ears on waving an American Flag...he sure stays true to what's important...The grand 'ol USofA and M*I*C*K*E*Y**M*O*U*S*E!! (Now you have the song in your head, don't ya?)

Two peas in a pod!!

ps. I forgot to mention Lilee's new stats from her *9* month check(actually it was 10 months)

She is a WHOPPING 22 pounds 4 1/2 oz. That's like the 95% in weight!!

Get this...she is 31 inches LOooooooNG!! The nurse said she jumped WAY off her growth curve for length...she's the equivalent of like 130% or something like that!!

WHERE did this kid get her genes?!

UPDATES...

2008-07-23T09:22:00.001-07:00

Lots of catch up to do...

So much has been going on and we've been so busy that it's been difficult finding the time to post as much as I'd like. Here's my BEST attempt to catch everyone up on the Becker's! Check back in a day or so for pictures!!

SETH: After not getting the job in WA, we were pretty bummed about our prospects and about advancing at UOP(university of Phoenix). We had faith that things would work out, but admittedly, not the faith we should have had. Lesson Learned. Two weeks ago, Seth was called into his boss' boss' office to "chat". He figured that another management position was opening up and they were considering him for an interview or something of the sort. The NEXT day, the managers were all having a meeting and asked Seth to join them, joked around a little, and then after Seth showed signs of confusion, told Seth that the current enrollment team he was on was splitting into two teams and if he wanted the position...HE WAS THE NEW MANAGER. What a blessing. It is the best possible scenario in that there was NO interview...NO new team to prove himself towards...and NO new managers to figure out. It truly is the best outcome and we feel so blessed and humbled that things worked out so well. It was a reminder to us that our Heavenly Father is always aware of us and our situations. While we still would LOVE to get out of AZ, we have ALWAYS felt it was necessary for Seth to have management experience to add to his resume to better his chances in the marketing/advertising career field. We have learned to put certain priorities first, such as family and our relationship with Heavenly Father and everything else will be taken care of. Seth is enjoying his new position and Nikki is getting used to the longer hours. We both know it is the best thing for us at this time in our lives!!:) At least we know where we'll be for the next year for sure and possibly longer.

NIKKI: Can you teach an old dog new tricks? That is the question I've been asking myself. I think I have decided that I would like to pursue a nursing degree. The semester before starting my student teaching I told Seth that I didn't EVER want to teach...he made me finish my degree! I am grateful for that push(I am so happy to have a completed degree) however, I would like to have something I enjoy to fall back on if I need to. I've thought about my options for a LooooooooooooONG time and I truly think I would really love nursing. More specifically, I would love to be a labor and delivery or NICU nurse. However, both of those have the longest "intern" program. I have a friend who is a NICU nurse and has given me lots to think about. Right now we are trying to decide if it is in our families best interest for me to pursue this desire NOW or wait until our kids are older. Anybody have any experience in nursing?! I'm looking for any advice you've got!

KEATON: The stitches are out!!! YEAH!! Stay tuned for pictures. He still has some obvious scarring, but we are hoping Mederma will clear that up! He doesn't seem to be AFRAID of dogs. He talks about when "the dog bite his owie"...when the dog bit his nose and gave him an owie!! However, he doesn't get scared when he sees dogs and really doesn't seem bothered by them at all, thank goodness. He's been a trooper and we are glad that saga is over!!:) He is such a fun little guy. He is talking more lately and truly is coming a LOoooooooNG way. I think we will try REALLY hard starting Monday to get the kid potty trained. It's time. Mom's ready, Dad's ready, and we're just hoping Keat's ready!!:) TIPS??!! I'm scared. I was scared about potty training when I found out we were pregnant!!! :) Really. NE one wanna do it for me?!

LILEE: Well, we had a visit with the pediatric urologist on Tuesday. She indeed has kidney reflux. After talking about our options, we agreed that it would be best for Lilee to have a surgery called DEFLUX to correct the problem. It's an outpatient surgery and we have one of the BEST pediatric urologists working on her. Of course, ANY SURGERY is scary, and we are nervous...but as I mentioned, we feel it is best. She has to be closer to the age of one in order to have bladder surgery so she won't get it done until September. Until then she will be on antibiotics to keep her from getting more kidney infections/urinary tract infections. Apparently she has this reflux on BOTH sides which is pretty rare. Without the meds, the Dr. said she would definitely get sick again before the surgery, so we are doing our best to get her to choke down the meds each day. She is PRO at shaking her head at me when she sees it coming and is even better at spitting, gagging, or down right throwing it up within minutes. OH THE JOYS!! We'll survive. Aside from difficulty taking medicine...she is a DOLL!! She's this close to walking...but just hasn't figure it out yet. I think in another month or so maybe! Her and Keat are SO cute when they play now...they just laugh at each other all day...I love it!!

SO, that's the latest and greatest! We're busy, but lovin' life and enjoying our family. We will most likely put our home up for sale sometime after summer is over. With the price of homes so low we might as well take advantage if we can sell our house. And, if we can't, no big deal! We do need to get into something bigger eventually, but we have the time. If you know anyone who wants to move...send them our way. :) We are also hoping to buy a minivan sometime soon...of course that means we are also hoping to get pregnant soon to add to that minivan. We'd love it if we were expecting by 2009. Life is krazy, why not add another baby to the mix?!! :) As I keep mentioning...keep an eye out for pictures. I need to get them posted soon...so check back!!

5 AMAZING YEARS...

2008-07-17T06:44:00.000-07:00

I got this idea from a friend when she celebrated her anniversary and I'm gonna steal it...

*5 YEARS

*HAD 3 BEeeeeeeeAUTIFUL KIDS

*GOT 1 ANNOYING DOG

*GOT RID OF 1 ANNOYING DOG

*COMPLETED 3 DEGREES (2 Bachelors and 1 Masters)

*BOUGHT 1st HOME

*4 PROMOTIONS (Not me...I'm still at my regular pay, but I wouldn't have it any other way)

*LOTS OF BLOOD SWEAT AND TEARS

*EVEN MORE LOVE

It was the HOTTEST day of the year so far...our FIRST stop after pictures was the Circle K by the Temple...in our suit and dress and all...the people working just laughed when we bought a GIANT thirst buster!

After looking at my list, I'm not sure it details all the amazing things that have happened these past 5 years...WOW, FIVE YEARS!! It doesn't seem that long...I can't remember a time when I didn't love Seth...it seems so natural! I sometimes believe I was BORN to be with that man! Totally sappy, but "he completes me"...more like he COMPLIMENTS me. He is my perfect partner in crime! We feed off of each other to get things done and I believe that is what a marriage is meant to be like. We are a very equal partner relationship and I'm grateful that Seth is that way. He helps me do SO much around the house and he is always doing so much more than I expect! He loves me...so unconditionally. He wants me to be everything that I can be and what's more is that he wants me to be what HE KNOWS I can be! He believes in me. We have had a wonderful 5 years...not an EASY 5 years by any means, but wonderful none the less. I don't think marriage should necessarily be EASY...especially the first 5 years. It's work. It takes patience, long suffering, adaptability, thick skin sometimes, and lots and lots of love! We haven't always excelled at all of those all the time, but one thing we have always kept in our hearts is LOVE! My love for Seth has NEVER dwindled...it has never wavered...and it has only grown to a capacity I was unaware existed 5 years ago! I am grateful to know that we will be together for ETERNITY! What a blessing to know that our love can continue on FOREVER! He's the only man I want to spend FOREVER with!! I love you, Sethee-Poo!! You are my rock, you are my light...and I cannot IMAGINE my life without you!

Our First Institute Dance

Dating...

Right after Seth proposed...Eater Sunday

Engagement Photos...

We Busted Out!!

2008-07-08T08:37:00.000-07:00

That's right...WE ARE HOME!!! I have never in my life been more excited to be back at home, in my own bed, in my own shower, with my own food, my own privacy, just my own family!! It has been such a trying time for us and we are so grateful for all of our friends and family who have kept us in their prayers each day! This experience has taught me so much about myself and I've learned a great deal about what to hold near and dear. I think I take for granted the fact that myself and my children are "healthy". I think I don't realize what a stressful experience it is for parents to watch their kids suffer day after day after day! It's the worst pain I've ever felt...mainly because it's not my own...I can't control what they feel and I can't stop it from happening. In high school I remember answering the following question..."WHAT IS ONE OF THE WORST FEELINGS?" Back then I answered "helplessness." I believe that I have faced my fears this past week and I am no closer to conquering them than I was when I was 16. So many times I just wanted to yell at the Dr's and make them stop or get them to "fix" my baby or I was angry that Heavenly Father wouldn't just let Keaton get better. It didn't take long, however, to look around the other hospital rooms and realize who had been there a week, two weeks, a month...I just cannot imagine! I began to feel lucky. Lucky that there were Dr's who were there and knowledgeable to "fix" my baby in time. Lucky that I had family and friends who were there to help us sort through the madness of the week and there to lift our spirits. I especially felt LUCKY that Heavenly Father cared enough to send me a precious child to bring me joy. I realized at the PUREST degree that Keaton, as are all of my kids, TRULY ARE Heavenly Father's children. He has BLESSED me with their presence and I feel grateful for whatever that blessing brings...even if it is worrying and praying that they are okay. I cannot explain the peace that came with that realization. Even though I am SURE, 100% POSITIVE, ABSOLUTELY WITHOUT A DOUBT KNOW that motherhood will bring me MANY more days of worry and many more days of suffering on my child's behalf, I also know, with complete ASSUREDNESS, that it will be worth it. In the end, watching my child grow and be happy will bring me the greatest joy I could ever know. It already has!

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Okay, enough rambling. Here are some pics. First, the bad, then the good!!

Here is Keaton BEFORE the incident:

Here is Keaton the morning AFTER:

Here he is at the hospital on Saturday afternoon:

His face was just morphed so bad from the swelling...he didn't look like the same kid!

And here he is TODAY: Cheetos and all!!

BEFORE everything happened, we actually had a REALLY great time up in Mayer with my parents!! It was a great relaxing trip!

Grandma and Lilee

Every night my dad would read Keaton a "bedtime story"...they are reading HEMMINGS magazine...it is of classic cars for sale. Keat LOVED it...look how enthralled they BOTH are!

Our PRETTY LITTLE PRINCESS on the deck outside...it was beautiful!

My cute munchkins!!

Look at those devil eyebrows!!

I just loved this picture...he's in deep thought...so peaceful!

TIRED little lady after a day at the pool!

BUT...not tired enough to keep from TACKLING daddy...

Although...I think he has the UPPER hand on this one!!

FUN times in the grass!!

We had a great time at grandma and grandpa's house!! We played in the sprinklers, went to the swimming pool, watched movies, met some new friends, ate some great food, and had a lot of fun just being together!! We love this 4th of July tradition we've started(3rd year in a row now)...hopefully next year won't end with such a BITE...errr...bang!!

No Fireworks Needed

2008-07-06T10:04:00.000-07:00

Things sure went out with a bang for the 4th!! It's been a whirlwind since Friday. Long story short...Keat was bitten by a dog Friday evening, he had three lacerations that required seven stitches in his face. A shot of antibiotics later and we thought the worst was over (believe me...it was the WORST...it was just aweful seeing those stitches in my baby) and then he woke up on Saturday and had some swelling. By noon, his swelling had spread from his wounds to his cheek and his right side of his face was red and puffy. He didn't look anything like himself...he was totally disfigured...it was so sad. We took him to the ER and they admitted him. They started an IV (again, it was just aweful) and he took a ride in an ambulance to Thunderbird Hospital (they have a pediatric ward here) and we've been here ever since. We are waiting to talk to the Dr. and see how many more nights we'll have to stay...but HOPING to go home today sometime!! Say prayers that my sweet boy will get better quickly that his infection will heal and his wounds won't cause him pain or discomfort!! We have our cell phones if anyone needs to contact us!! I'll update soon!!

UPDATE on Lilee: Her tests came back and she indeed has a UTI...she is on antibiotics until we can get her in for testing and ultrasounds. One step at a time I guess!! Continued prayers for her would be great as well!! Thanx!

The MANY faces...

2008-06-26T13:43:00.000-07:00

Here is a sampling of the MANY faces of Keaton and Lilee

The CALM before the STORM

2008-06-26T13:01:00.001-07:00

That's what I think Lilee's unexpected sleep improvement was...
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There is SO much to say and I FINALLY uploaded my pictures so there's SO many pictures to share. I'll start with the drama and then move onto the fun stuff!!!
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SO...I think that Lilee sleeping through the night was a fluke...here's why!! On Tuesday, after sleeping from 9-9...Lilee went to bed about 11am for a nap. SHE DIDN'T WAKE UP UNTIL AFTER 3!! She slept for close to 5 hours and when she did finally wake...the poor thing had a temperature of 103.5*...yowza!! We called the dr. who MIRACULOUSLY got us in right away. After no signs as to what was causing the temp, the dr. decided to check for a Urinary Tract Infection(UTI). They stuck a catheter in my sweet girl and it DIDN'T WORK!! Sooo, they stuck a bag to her and sent her home for me to "collect" a sample and bring in the next morning. Honestly, at this point I felt AWFUL for subjecting her to that torture because I was sure she had a virus and this all seemed SO unnecessary. I KNOW the pain that comes from catheters and I just felt horrible. Well, we managed to get my sample and took it to the dr. yesterday morning. They took it back, did a test, came out and said, "it's POSITIVE"! My poor child!! SO, that was that. She had been spiking a fever all day, so I was giving her alternating doses of Tylenol and Motrin to keep it down. After a busy day we got home about 8 pm and she was SCREAMING and looked awful and was just on fire! We gave her the prescribed antibiotics, gave her some Motrin for the fever, and took it to see where we were at...105.3*...I didn't even know that was possible. I was SO worried. Dan came over and he and Seth gave her a blessing that she would be okay and her fever would go down. After that, we headed to Urgent Care and were there within the hour. Her fever had gone down CONSIDERABLY by the time we got there...the Priesthood is a WONDERFUL blessing and I am so grateful for a husband worthy to perform such wonderful blessings for his family!! They pricked her heel to test how many white blood cells she had. Normal is 10,000, she had 23,000....not good. They were worried that the infection may have gotten into her bloodstream, so they needed more blood to send for a culture. That was the worst thing I have ever experienced. My POOR child was screaming as some half-witted cannibalist (I'm exaggerating) stabbed her repeatedly for upwards of 4 minutes straight. It was truly heartbreaking and at some point I just told him to stop and almost threw up I felt so bad for her. They get their blood. THEN...they have to come in and give her a shot of the antibiotics to "jump start" the oral ones and get them going. I comment to the nurse that it can't be worse than the blood draw and she had the AUDACITY to say, "OH...this is MUCH worse...yeah, this one burns as it goes it...it's quite painful"!! HELLO?! Did I REALLY need to hear that?! She gets her shot and at this point is just exhausted, along with a very sad mommy and daddy. So, although we have been sleeping more...we are more tired...how did that happen?! Long story, LONG...we won't know anything for sure until Monday when all the cultures come back. I could go into best case, worse case...but we'll just wait until we know something more and I'll just share that!! This has been WAY too long winded as it is!!
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ONTO the fun stuff...We've been busy this month. I'll post pictures with captions, rather than explain everything!!
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We spent a weekend up north is Mayer with my parents at the beginning of the month. Their neighbor had this horse that seemed so friendly. We had no problems until the owner came out and informed us that he bites...that's all we had to hear to get Lilee's little sausage fingers outta there!

More from Mayer

Lilee had her first taste of spaghetti while there also.
Here she isn't so sure of it...

Not bad...

The end result

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Keaton took two weeks of private swim lessons with a friend in our ward at church. She was great with him. He did so well and has actually even gotten better since they ended!! We're so proud of him...here are the ONLY pictures that us LAME-O parents managed to take!!

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PLENTY of yard work to be done now that the grass is growing green again. Good thing we have Keat to help daddy out...although, I'm sure Seth wishes he could mow the lawn in HIS diaper...er...underwear also!!:)

That's us...be sure to check back next week to hear about our latest adventure!!:)

9-9

2008-06-24T11:48:00.001-07:00

Yup, that's right...Lilee slept from 9pm-9am this morning. Actually it was more like 9:30-9:00 but who's counting!? WOW...we were beginning to stress out about her sleeping. I can't complain too much though because even though she'd wake 2-3 times a night, she still just wanted you to give her a bottle in her crib and she'd go back to sleep, but NO BOTTLE, and NO WAKINGS is a beeeeeautiful thing! It's happened about 2 nights now so about 2 more and we're hoping for a trend that will stay. Of course it is JUST in time for sleep schedules to get all messed up over the 4th...what can you do?! A mother's life is all about flexibility!!

ALSO...we have a tooth. It's just poking through at the corner, but it's there so we are officially saying Lilee has a tooth!! WHOoo HOoo!! Now, maybe she'll eat more solids!! I'll post with pictures and her 9 month stats after her appt. Can you BELIEVE she is 9 months old?! Where'd my baby go?!

To Father's...

2008-06-15T15:33:00.000-07:00

This is a tribute to the great men in my life. I am so blessed to have such wonderful examples of manhood around me.

HAPPY FATHER'S DAY DADDY!!

My dad is a goof...he is loud...he is hard working...he is loving and he is a wonderful dad! I think what I have enjoyed most is watching him be a GRANDfather...he loves my kids so much and they adore him!! He is always so happy to see them and spend time with them. He is the first to volunteer to change a stinky diaper and the very next moment he is on all fours chasing Keaton around the house!! I love you!

HAPPY FATHER'S DAY Papa BECKER!!

Papa Becker is so very loved in our home. I am grateful for him for raising such a wonderful son. I wish I could have known him in this life, but look forward to our first meeting in the next...I'm SURE we will get along!! Seth tells me all the time how great he was and I look forward to his humor and his love! Some of my greatest talks with Seth are about his dad...I love getting to know him better and am grateful for the knowledge that we WILL meet one day! I love you!

HAPPY FATHER'S DAY SETH-EE-POO!!

My dear husband...what a wonderful father he is!! This morning before church we were watching "music and the spoken word" on the BYU channel. As the Mormon Tabernacle Choir was singing "How will They Know" I looked at my beautiful family...Seth was holding both kids on his lap and they were all so happy! He truly is an AMAZING man and an INCREDIBLE daddy. He comes home with open arms WANTING to play with his kids. He hugs them...kisses them...and tells them he loves them ALL day!! He teaches them kindness and shows them right and wrong. He truly is the man of my dreams and I'm so GRATEFUL that Heavenly Father saw fit to place him in my life! WE LOVE YOU DADDY!!

How will they know

The ones for whom we care

That God is love

And with us everywhere,

That life is good,

With blessings all can share?

How will they know

Unless we teach them so?

How will they learn

That though they go a stray,

God will forgive

And help them find the way?

How will they feel

The Spirit day by day?

How will they know

Unless we teach them so.

How will they grow

In wisdom and delight?

How will they choose

To follow what is right?

How can they trust

The future will be bright?

How will they know

Unless we show them?

How will they live

When they at last are grown?

What will they give

To children of their own?

Will they reflect

The values we have shown?

How will they know,

As on through life they go.

How will they know

Unless we strive to teach them so?

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To all the Father's out there...here's to YOU!

The Verdict is IN.....

2008-06-09T09:34:00.003-07:00

And....

We.....

Are....

not

Moving!!!

Looks like all you AZ friends and family are stuck with us a bit longer!! But, here's my beef!! Seth got an E-MAIL this morning(in reply to an e-mail he sent asking what the hold up was) saying he wasn't going to go further in the interview process. Uhhhhh, HELLO?! Does that sound professional AT ALL!! Especially after FLYING him out there and making him do a presentation for an HOUR and a HALF!?! I'm just shocked at how stupid they have been through all of this and feel really good about us NOT going there and him NOT working for those kind of people! He's going to call and get some feed back about his interview...something they should have called and been willing to give in the first place. It's all a bunch of bologna!! Oh well, we're just waiting for bigger and better things that I am confident the Lord has in store for us!! Hopefully ONE day it will lead us to Washington!! Until then...We're here for good...BWAHAHAHAHAHAHA!!!

Stillllllllllllllll Waiting

2008-06-06T22:04:00.001-07:00

Yup...nuf said! We're pretty bitter, but just hanging out till we hear the final word. We still think we're probably staying put, but holding onto a teeny bit of hope that they'll call and say we got it. I think Seth is going to call on Monday to figure out what the wait is all about. SO, cross your fingers we know SOMETHING come Monday!! Thanks for all the prayers on our behalf...even if you prayed that we'd stay...heehee...we love our AZ family!!

WAITING is NO fun!

2008-06-02T09:18:00.001-07:00

We still haven't heard anything about the job. Seth said his presentation went well on Thursday but he wasn't too confident about the questions they asked. Stupid UoP likes to take your smallest weaknesses and BLOW them up...so we'll see. I think we've decided that if we don't get the job, it's just Heavenly Father's way of telling us that we shouldn't be there right now. SO, that's the latest. Prayers are STILL very welcome! We'll let you all know when we hear something...hopefully sometime today!!

"CHA DOIN?"

2008-05-28T09:20:00.000-07:00

Lately Keaton has made enormous strides with his speech. He still has a LOoooooooooooNG way to go, but it's so fun to hear his little voice come out. Pretty much EVERY day when I am putting on my makeup, he'll come into the bathroom and say,

"Cha Doin Mama?"

I tell him I'm putting on my makeup and he'll say, "Why?" Being his mom, I KNOW this is a trick question because if I say something like, "to look pretty" or "because I want to" he'll WANT to also!! And we ALL know how much he likes to "color" himself!! SO, I've learned to say, "Because mommy's get to put makeup on". I tried saying girls, but I don't think he knows he's NOT a girl! It's just so funny and I love watching his little personality shine!!

THIS...

is how we found Lilee a couple weeks back. What the heck? What is my little baby girl trying to do...GROW UP?! I never said it was okay! She's just such a little over achiever. She is so mobile and independent. She doesn't care if you are following her or not, she'll venture off all the way down the hall to our bedroom if she has a reason to! She's already getting into mischief with her brother! She is 8 months old YESTERDAY!! WOW, in 4 months I'll have another TODDLER...that's scary!!

Well...I wasn't sure if I was going to post this on my blog or not, but since it is DEFINITELY the latest news, I suppose I will!!

We are THINKING pretty SERIOUSLY about...

MOVING!!

AHhhhhhhhh, so scary and so exciting! Seth is interviewing for a management position at the University of Phoenix and the job is in...

WASHINGTON...

just outside of Seattle! It's EVERYTHING we wanted...higher pay, GREAT place to live! He is actually flying out tomorrow for a final interview. He'll leave in the morning and be back that night. We're hoping for an offer before he leaves so we can have the weekend to "decide"!

Of course, have you heard about this HORRIBLE housing market? Yeah, that's where the problem comes in. They want him sometime in June and it's pretty much unheard of to sell a house that quickly, and NOBODY is making a profit anymore. We actually would probably LOSE money on our investment and that's just not an option. SO, what ARE our options?! Well, I think we have decided to try to rent it out. Kinda scary, but if we can rent it for a year or so until the market gets a bit better, then we can turn around and hopefully at least break even.

SO, shameless ploy now...

If you know ANYONE who wants to move to Goodyear to buy or rent, send them our way!!

We're praying really hard and we have faith that if we are meant to be in Washington , Heavenly Father will make it possible! It's really been a whirlwind around here lately but we are SO excited about the prospects!! Pray that things fall into place for us!! THANKS!

Disneyland or Bust...

2008-05-16T09:32:00.000-07:00

Sorry for the lack of updates. I have just not been in the BLOGGING "mood" lately. BUT, after a push from Tenille, I am ready to post about our Disneyland Trip!!

(A family shot before we entered the park on Monday)
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It was a LOT of fun, with a few bumps in the road!!

We woke up on Sunday and noticed Keat had a slight fever. Hmm? So, we gave him some Tylenol and figured it was teething(poor kid still hasn't gotten his 2 year molars). Go to church, come home, pack up the car, and we're on our way. The drive there was AWESOME!! We didn't stop ONCE and the kids were pretty much little angels. By the time we got to our hotel, we noticed Keat's fever was WAY high, so we dose him with Tylenol, Seth gives the poor kid a blessing and we tuck him in to bed hoping that a good nights rest will "fix" everything. He wakes up with a fever. SO, again thinking it is probably just teething, we dope him up and head to Disneyland.

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(My cute little family waiting at our hotel for the bus to take us to Disneyland)

IT IS THE HAPPIEST PLACE ON EARTH!!!

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(At California Adventures...pretty kewl background, eh? Notice the tired little bubs?)

Aside from having to give Keat medicine every 4-6 hours, we all had a great time! Lilee was a DREAM...just smiling and laughing and loving on everyone!! I cannot COUNT the number of times someone commented on what a happy pretty little lady she was!! (blush!) Keat was a little sluggish, what with all the Tylenol in his system, but he seemed to have a great time too.

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(This is what Lilee learned on our trip. We kept making stupid cheesy faces to get her to smile for pictures, so she started this smile where she scrunches up her nose and squints her eyes...we call it her Cheezer Smile)

SO, that night we decided that if Keat's temp was still up in the a.m., we'd have to take him in somewhere. Well, we woke up and it was a no-brainer when he had a fever of 104.4* !!! I about died, made Seth take him to an urgent care, which ended up being an ER, and paid $75 for them to tell us it was a SMALL ear infection, shoot the boy up with antibiotics, and send them home! I am not a medical professional, but I am PRETTY sure a SMALL ear infection would not cause 3 days of HIGH temperatures. IDIOTS!!

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(Keat REALLY wanted to see what was in this door...too bad he doesn't understand PROPS)

Under the assumption that it was an ear infection, not contagious, we went to California Adventures. FUN FUN FUN!!! Lilee was still a doll, but today Keat was a bit of a bear. We "almost" went home about 3 dozen times. All in all, it was a fun day.

(OH BOY...he was the TRAIN CONDUCTOR on this ride in Toon Town. Look at the JOY!)

We were supposed to go home Wednesday morning, to early afternoon, but after having the rough day we had on Tuesday, decided to stay a little bit longer when Keat started to show signs of improvement. HOWEVER, after about 3 hours, he was back to the fever and they came with the chills. So, we packed up and started to leave. We stopped to take his temp. and it was a WHOPPING 103.8* and this was AFTER being outside in the cold for HOURS!! Uhhhhg, needless to say, the ride home was not as nice as the ride there, but we made it home!! Of COURSE, the next morning, Keat was fever free and has been ever since.

Lilee is another story as her temp soared THIS Monday morning and stayed around till this Wednesday also. At least with just two kids I am pretty sure we are DONE with whatever this thing was. MOST DEFINITELY NOT AN EAR INFECTION THOUGH!! Stupid ghetto California Dr's!!

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(My TIRED little sweets. So tired, but SO cute!!)

So, while there was some "issues" we really had a great time. Seth and I were able to ride pretty much EVERY single adult ride we wanted to(separately) and Keat went on everything he wanted to...some two or THREE times!! It was SO much fun watching him get excited and happy when he saw a familiar ride or Disney character!!

(We are a DUCK LOVIN' FAMILY...we jumped at the chance to get a photo with Donald!!)

(We saw Mr. Incredible walking, asked for a photo...which they NEVER give on a whim...he stopped and we couldn't find our camera. SO, he WAITED and played with Lilee and had her cracking up. By the time we found our camera there was a crowd taking pictures of our cutie being swoon by Mr. Incredible himself!! What a moment!! I think this may be her first crush!)

SO...Moral of the story...

Even with a fever, DISNEYLAND IS TRULY THE HAPPIEST PLACE ON EARTH!!!

Can't wait to go back. Here are some more photos of our adventure!!

(I got to meet up with a friend, Stacie, and her kiddos!! Here she is with Britton. CUTE!)

(This was the only place we could get a photo of them without me holding Lilee!!)

(Running around Tom Sawyers island...that has been invaded by pirates!! They've done a LOT with this and it is SO cute!)

(Daddy and Keat with all their "booty")

(Daddy and Lilee on the KRAZY Ferris Wheel...the cars move all over as the wheel turns)

(Keat saw the train and...you guessed it...HAD to get a photo!!)

(And this is how we had our last meal on the way out of town...Keat and Lilee were asleep the WHOLE time...it was kinda nice!)

Did I mention LIFE IS GOOD?!

2008-04-29T20:12:00.000-07:00

Okay...miracle of ALL miracles...Lilee crashed ON THE FLOOR at 7pm(2 hours before her usual bedtime) and Keat followed suit at 8pm! SO...Seth is at mutual and I am bound and DETERMINED to catch up on my blog!!

First, LILEE IS CRAWLING...what the heck?! I wasn't going to call it actual crawling until my mother in law saw her on Sunday and said it was definitely crawling. She does this sort of caterpillar crawl, but she gets EVERYWHERE! I'm sure I'm not outta the woods yet, but SO FAR, Keat isn't too bothered by his MONSTER of a sister caterpillar-ing herself on top of him when he's laying down watching a movie or grabbing the toys he is so desperately trying to contain. SO FAR anyways! In fact, most of the time, he just laughs and then turns it into a game. What a sweet boy!! I am loving that she is mobile though...she's happy, I'm happy!

Doesn't this picture look like those ghostly things from Harry Potter that suck the life out of people?! SO FUNNY!!

At the splash pad on Park Day!

A CUuuuuuuuuTE picture of my newest nephew Aaron!!

Lilee takes a bath like a big girl now...no more baby tub!!

I love this little bunch!!

Next, I had to share some awesome(sarcasm) pictures of how Seth and I celebrated our TAX RETURN!! I've ALWAYS wanted to go to the Melting Pot (in Scottsdale...they are actually opening one at Arrowhead in a month or so). It truly was AMAZING! The pictures REALLY don't do it justice, but it was wonderful! Thanks MOM AND DAD for watching our little Twinkies! We also went and watched the movie, Baby Mama...I about CRIED laughing. I must say though that it does have some bad parts...language and such, but I think Amy Pohler is one of the FUNNIEST women alive and I about died watching her in this movie!! SO...it was a great night with fantastic food and what better way to spend it than with the love of my life!! Thanks Seth-ee for a great night out!!

Cheese Fondue to start...

Followed by a DELICIOUS Caribbean salad...

YUMMY entree to follow...

End it with a Cookies and Cream fondue desert...okay, so we were a bit eager and forgot the BEFORE picture...dang!! I guess we'll just have to go again for that one!

What a DORK...do you SEE what I have to put up with?! :) He ALWAYS keeps me laughing!

I saved the best for last!! OUR MARCH FOR BABIES WALK!!! It was the most BEAUTIFUL morning and we had a GREAT time! I cannot thank you all enough for your support! The grand total for our team and all our individual pledges was somewhere in the $500's!! Can you believe that?! I was so impressed and grateful for everyone's donations! I especially want to thank everyone who not only came out to support us at the walk but who also graciously purchased a TEAM shirt(that Seth designed and Richard O. made) so we all would look great walking together!! We sure stood out in our GREEN and it was just amazing to see all of us there. We had about 25 in our group!! THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU!! It is DEFINITELY a cause worth all the time and effort we put into it. We will do it again next year so if you are interested, let us know!!

I LURVE this family shot!!

Before the walk started...we were missing a few people!

During the walk...don't we stand out!?

Here is the WHOLE group...L-R Sara, Becky, Seth w/Lilee and Keat, Donna, Holly w/ Clark, Craig w/ Mallory and Chase, Richard, Abe w/ Aidan and Tanner, Lindsey, ME, Tiff w/ Freeman and Nathan, Lindsey, Mike w/ Amy, Samara, and Eddie! I couldn't forget Lorissa...she was TAKING the picture!

Look at my little chunk...she LOVED the bubbles...well, as much as you can love them when you have NO CLUE what they are...cute tights, eh?!

Life is Good!

2008-04-29T11:42:00.000-07:00

I know I am behind. Uhhhhhg...I have SO much to post...I am HOPING to get on tonight while Seth is at mutuals and the kiddos are sleeping! Fingers crossed!! :) Life is krazy...but GOOD!!

TAGGGGG...You're IT!

2008-04-16T16:40:00.000-07:00

Okay...I've been tagged a few times...so I'm going to try to do all of them in this post!! :)
I should say that I have been working on these for about a week...some answers may not make sense with the particular day!!:)

First, tagged by Lindsey!!...OKAY...I need to do this one again because it didn't save all my pictures!! MANnnnnn, I'll get to it a bit later, k Linds?!

Okay...next tagged by Caroline AND Stef...thanks girls!

7 weird and interesting things about me...

1. Double jointed in legs...can literally turn them around and walk backwards. My mom used to bring me in as SHOW AND TELL for her 4th grade class every year!

2. I have spent WELL over $500 on scrapbooking accessories and HAVE YET TO MAKE A SINGLE PAGE!!

3. I have a dream of going to Alaska...JUST to see the Northern Lights

4. Since I mentioned Alaska, I guess I should also say that I have a dream of going to Astoria, Oregon to RE-ENACT the scene from Goonies where the kids ride down the road on their bikes in search of One Eyed Willy's buried treasure!! Ahhhhhhhhh, great aspiration, eh?

5. I was told to eat an ice cream shake once a day, every day during my pregnancy with Keaton. That was the best diet I've EVER been on!!

6. In college, my roommate and I began writing a screenplay. We spent hours in cute little coffee shops and clubs discussing all the details...of course we didn't get much further than deciding on the characters and then got carried away trying to decide WHAT ACTORS AND ACTRESSES would play such characters. We even went as far as to decide that Rob Thomas/Matchbox20 would do the soundtrack for our movie...in our world it was already a movie!! OIIIIY!!

7. I cry at EVERYTHING!! Not such a shocker to anyone who really knows me...but it's gotten pretty bad after having kids. It's like the hormones that control the water works are broken...you show me a Huggies Commercial and I'm gone!!

And this one is from Kristi...

1. WERE YOU NAMED AFTER ANYONE? Niki Newman from the soap opera Young and the Restless
2. WHEN WAS THE LAST TIME YOU CRIED? When a friend donated to the March of Dimes to get me to my goal yesterday!
3. DO YOU LIKE YOUR HANDWRITING? When it looks nice
4. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE LUNCH MEAT? Turkey
5. DO YOU HAVE KIDS? 3!!!
6.IF YOU WERE ANOTHER PERSON WOULD YOU BE FRIENDS WITH YOU? I should hope so!
7. DO YOU USE SARCASM A LOT? Constantly - It's probably something I should work on!
8. DO YOU STILL HAVE YOUR TONSILS? Yep!
9. WOULD YOU BUNGEE JUMP? I am terrrrrrrrrified of heights...so no!
10. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE CEREAL? Raisin Nut Bran
11. DO YOU UNTIE YOUR SHOES WHEN YOU TAKE THEM OFF? Nope!
12. DO YOU THINK YOU ARE MENTALLY STRONG? I think so most of the time
13. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE ICE CREAM? Mint Chocolate Chip...but only from Baskin Robbins!!
14. WHAT IS THE FIRST THING YOU NOTICE ABOUT PEOPLE? Their eyes
15. RED OR PINK? Pink
16. WHAT IS THE LEAST FAVORITE THING ABOUT YOURSELF?My inability to get motivated!
17. WHO DO YOU MISS THE MOST? I miss my bub Logan quite a bit!
18. DO YOU WANT EVERYONE TO SEND THIS BACK TO YOU? yep
19. WHAT COLOR PANTS AND SHOES ARE YOU WEARING? Jeans and Black Bling-y flip flops!
20. WHAT WAS THE LAST THING YOU ATE? English Muffin
21. WHAT ARE YOU LISTENING TO RIGHT NOW? Lilee SQUAWK for attention, Seth tell Keat to put SOMETHING on the chair...("noo, no, no, noooo...not in the garbage"), and Keat sounds confused!!
22. IF YOU WHERE A CRAYON, WHAT COLOR WOULD YOU BE? Cornflower Blue
23. FAVORITE SMELLS? RAIN...and freshly bathed babies!!
24.Who is the last person you talked to on the phone? My momma
25. DO YOU LIKE THE PERSON WHO SENT THIS TO YOU? Love her
26. FAVORITE SPORTS TO WATCH? Basketball
27. HAIR COLOR? Dark brown
28. EYE COLOR? Used to be blue...but I need to detox because apparently they have changed to green-ish. (Some say if you DETOX your eyes will/can change color)
29. DO YOU WEAR CONTACTS? Nope...hopefully my kids will get MY eyes!
30. FAVORITE FOOD? I EAT EVERYTHING...ALL THE TIME!! I love Mexican...chips and salsa...ice cream, SUSHI...mmmmmm....OH, just about anything!
31. SCARY MOVIES OR HAPPY ENDINGS? Both
32. LAST MOVIE YOU WATCHED? Thomas the Tank Engine sing-a-long! Uhhhhhhhhggg, if that DVD gets lost or heaven forbid SMASHED...I may throw a party!!
33. WHAT COLOR SHIRT ARE YOU WEARING? Black
34. SUMMER OR WINTER? SPRING AND FALLLLL!!!
35. HUGS OR KISSES? Hugs
36. FAVORITE DESSERT? Ice Cream or rice krispy treats
37. MOST LIKELY TO RESPOND? ????????
38. LEAST LIKELY TO RESPOND? ????????
39. WHAT BOOK ARE YOU READING NOW? Reading?? Is that something people are doing these days? Hmmmm, maybe I should join the bandwagon!
40. WHAT IS ON YOUR MOUSE PAD? Gateway logo
41. WHAT DID YOU WATCH ON T. V. LAST NIGHT? American Idol!! YEAH!
42. FAVORITE SOUND? My kiddos laughing together
43. ROLLING STONES OR BEATLES? Beatles
44. WHAT IS THE FARTHEST YOU HAVE BEEN FROM HOME? Hawaii...yeah!!

And finally...this one is from Ashley....how's that baby Ella baking?! Not long now, huh?!

A-Z Tag

A- ATTACHED OR SINGLE: attached

B- BEST FRIEND: My Seth-E-Poo

C-CAKE OR PIE: CAKE...esp. Texas Sheet Cake or Better than S-E-X-Cake!!

D- DAY OF CHOICE: Friday...fun for the weekend!!

E- ESSENTIAL ITEM: Computer

F- FAVORITE COLOR: LOVE Turquoise and Teal!!

G- GREATEST ACCOMPLISHMENT: FINISHING my student teaching to complete my degree after losing our precious Logan. It was hard to go back, but I'm SO grateful I did!

H- HOMETOWN: Goodyear, AZ

I- INDULGENCES: I indulge myself MUCH too often. However, I guess Baskin Robbins Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream Shakes are a bit of an indulgence!!

J- JANUARY OR JULY: OKAY...well, I love January because it's my birthday, but I love July for the 4th!! Also, it's our anniversary...SOooo, it's a tie!! I think I'd like July even more if it wasn't 150* outside!!:)

K- KIDS: 3 precious little tukeys!! 2 at home, one for eternity!!

L- LIFE IS INCOMPLETE WITHOUT: My family...I can't imagine my krazy wonderful life without them!

M- MARRIAGE DATE: July 17th, 2003

N- NUMBER OF SIBLINGS: 1 brother

O- ORANGES OR APPLES: Greeeeen Apples with a to die for dip!!

P- PHOBIAS OR FEARS: My greatest fear is losing my husband or another child. Also, I fear not being able to get pregnant again.

Q- QUOTES: "There is no role in life more essential and more eternal than that of motherhood"

R- REASON TO SMILE: Keaton is "dancing" with Lilee right now and they are LAUGHING hysterically...if that doesn't make you smile, I don't know what will!!

S- SEASON: FALL...I LOVE the idea that the heat is GOING AWAY and there is a crispness in the air!!

T- TAG EIGHT FRIENDS: Caroline, Jennifer, Cammie, Sarah, Robyn, Tiffany, Karen, and Amie!!!

U- UNKNOWN FACT ABOUT ME: I will REDO a diaper 50 times until I have each side done just so...it's about the only thing I'm particular about!!

V- VERY FAVORITE STORE: I'm with you Ash...I just ADORE Target. I can't wait until our SUPER target opens and I can have a one stop shop!!

W- WORST HABIT: As stated before, I can be VERY Lazy...working on it though!!

X- X-RAY OR ULTRASOUND: Ultrasound...there's nothing like seeing your baby safe and sound!!

Y- YOUR FAVORITE FOOD: Mexican and ICE CREAM!!

Z-YOUR ZODIAC SIGN: Capricorn with Aquarius tendencies. I was born on the cusp. The last day or the Cap and the first day of the Aqua sign!!:)

SOoooooooooo, ladies I tagged...pick one or pick them all!!

WOW...that was WAY more than anyone wanted to know about me!! Thanks for all the tags, they were fun!!!

MARCH FOR BABIES...Leaping for Logan!

2008-04-15T10:52:00.000-07:00

This is my FINAL plug for the March of Dimes(I promise it's my last)! The walk is this Saturday. If anyone out there would like to donate, simply click on the link to the right of my blog and you can do it all securely online! This truly is a great cause and one I hold very close to my heart! We're giving itty-bitty babies a chance to live...it's amazing!

You Drive Me Crazy!

2008-04-11T11:04:00.000-07:00

An overplayed Britney Spears song may come to mind when you read the title of my post...however, I am referring to a different kind of crazy!

You know, the one that hits when you find your two year old

1.) AWAKE after putting him to bed 30 minutes earlier and

2.) you smell the very pungent odor of nail polish.

OR, the one that makes you sick to your stomach when you find 1/4 of your makeup is not only ruined but ornately decorating your son. It doesn't help when your husband is more concerned with whether he put the makeup on his body or on his FACE...gasp(how could MY son put makeup on HIS face?!)!

OR maybe still, it's the heat that you feel rise to your ears as your two year old empties an ENTIRE box of Frosted Flakes onto the carpet...not to mention the clothes, toys, and baby sister, that happened to be on the carpet at the time!

"but mom, THEY'RE GRrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrEAT!"

If that is the kind of KRAZY you can relate to...share your stories...it would be LOVELY to know my UNBELIEVABLY terrible two~isn't so unbelievable!

Just because I find it difficult to post without pictures, here are some recent ones!!

Here is the latest adventure in POTTY TRAINING!!

I don't know if I'm more excited about him being on the potty or READING!!:)

He got these EASTER BUNNY teeth from none other than the EASTER BUNNY!!:) What a dork!!

We spent a Family Home Evening planting flowers around our tree...look at my sweetness! (I'm talking about Lilee)

Despite the aforementioned naughtiness that occurs pretty regularly, Keat really is a big help!

What cute kiddos they are!

First day in the POOL!! Have you seen a more excited face in your life?!

Keat sure loves Lilee!!

Goin' down the slide for the first time...look at Lilee trying to figure out how she is going to get over there to get in on the action...she wants to be JUST like her big brother!:)

Kolby got this kewl sprinkler thing for his B-day and we all had fun with it!

These three boys are SO cute together. I love how close they are getting and watching them interact!! They will be the best of friends!!

Little Miss is 6 Months

2008-04-04T09:34:00.000-07:00

Our *LITTLE* angle is not so little anymore!!

Lilee turned 6 months old on March 27th and on the 28th we had her well check at the pediatricians! Here are her current stats...beat them if you dare!!

Lilee is, once again, OFF THE CHARTS for height...she is 27 1/2 inches long! She weighs in at a WHOPPING 19 pounds, 2 ounces! That is just insane!! She ranks in the 95%!

Compared to Keaton at this time...he was 17lbs 8 oz. and 28 inches long. SO, basically, she is a PORKER!! What's funny is that she really DOES NOT LIKE FOOD! By this time Keat was eating table food as well as baby food. Lilee only eats about 1/2-1 jar of babyfood like once MAYBE twice a day! She's just big boned...haahaa!

The extra pounds don't slow her down though. Lilee get's up on all four's and lunges forward. She rolls all over the place and sits and plays with Keat all day long.

She LOVES when Keaton talks to her or dances for her.

She "talks" alllllll day long, and has even uttered DADA a few times! Seth is a VERY proud daddy whenever he hears it!

She is SUCH a happy girl and we just can't imagine our family without her!

I can't believe she is SIX MONTHS OLD...where has the time gone?! When Keat was 6 months old we decided to start trying for another baby....certainly NOT there yet!! :)

We love our *little* lady!!

HAPPY EASTER

2008-03-24T08:06:00.000-07:00

HAPPY EASTER!! OH how I LOVE Easter! It is by FAR my most favorite holiday!! I love that you can find white and pink clothes just about ANYWHERE and that they have matching outfits for kids of all ages!! I love that the weather is PERFECT...even if only for a few days! I love that it reminds me of when Seth proposed to me(April 20th, 2003...back when Easter was in APRIL)! But mostly, I love to think of Our Savior and all that He has done for me and my family through His atonement! What blessings I have! HAPPY EASTER!!

Some photos of this weeks BUSY events!!

Lilee and Amy L. in matching PJ's...SAME SIZE!!!!

Giving loves goodnight!!

St. Patty's day...mommy and Lilee

St. Patty's day with the whole fam...funny how we managed to each have a different color of GREEN on...krazy!

That night, Seth and I went to the Matchbox20 concert at Cricket Pavillion! This was my gift for V-day and it was AMAZING! Matchbox20 is my ALL TIME FAVORITE group and we had a blast singing along and watching all the inebriated folk dance around...nothing like a concert on St. Patty's day!!

Here is Rob Thomas...in the GREEN shirt!! HORRIBLE picture but AMAZING concert!

This was the first time we were able to take Lilee with us to Logan's grave. It was a nice day to spend time together as a family! After that, we went to the Easter Pagent at the Temple. It was BEAUTIFUL, as usual! It was so much more meaningful for me this year because Keat actually did REALLY well and we talked about Jesus and the angels quite a bit!

On Friday we spent some time at the zoo. Seth got off early so we all met a friend, Riss, and saw some animals. Truly, we spent most of our time at the petting zoo...and then because of no nap, we spent a lot of time dealing with a screaming toddler...I think Riss will NEVER have kids after spending time with ours!!:)

This was PRICELESS...see if you can figure out this next picture. The one after it is a bit more explanatory!

daddy daughter love!

Easter at the Francois' on Saturday! Thanks mom for the shopping trip...it was SO fun to actually have someone to go with who had an opinion! It's always more fun to spend money WITH someone!!:)

Easter Morning

I am SO bummed that I didn't take any pictures of us for church! I spent SO much time getting outfits that matched! We'll have to wear them again soon and then I'll get pictures! Here's what we wore though, Lilee had a CUTE pink dress with white cardigan(Thank you Lorelei and Bridget) and I had a white skirt and shirt with a pink cardigan. Keat wore blue pants with a blue/white/pink striped shirt. Daddy wore blue pants, white shirt and a pink and blue tie!! We all looked great if I do say so myself!!

Easter at the Becker's on Sunday!

Look at Miss Lilee's new trick...she sits up now! Keat wasn't sitting up until like 8 months or something! Krazy girl...she also gets up on her toes and hands and lunges forward! What an overachiever!!:)

Dying hands...errrr...eggs!

Baby Names...tagged!

2008-03-18T12:04:00.000-07:00

Tagged...by Sara!

The tag is to say HOW/WHY we chose the baby names we did...here goes!

LOGAN KARL~The Logan Temple is my ABSOLUTE FAVORITE TEMPLE and I always knew our first boy would be Logan! It is much more popular now, but still not too well known which I love! Karl is in tribute of Seth's dad. Logan Karl is a very special name for a very special boy!!

KEATON SETH~About a week after we found out we were pregnant, Seth and I went to California for a couple days. I am the type of person who HAS TO HAVE A NAME PICKED OUT...I even stress about it. So, with a tiny cell inside of me growing, I was stressing about names. The last night we were there...I had a dream. In my dream, we had twin boys...Keaton and Kai. I told Seth and he said NO to Kai, but LOVED the name Keaton. I had NEVER heard of another kid with the name Keaton before and it is bizarre because it wasn't until later that I thought about the actors with Keaton as surnames! I still have never actually MET another Keaton, but know of other kiddos with the name. I like an "off" name like that. And, obviously, Seth is after his daddy...who he happens to be a clone of, so it worked out!!:) I never thought that Keaton would have a nickname...but he is DEFINITELY a KEAT!!

LILEE RENEE~There again, I have ALWAYS LOVED THE NAME Lily...and KNEW I'd name my first daughter it. Something about it being different and "classic" sounding. I have a weird thing with the letter "Y" though...I like names to be spelled different. So, instead of "Y", we spell it with "EE"s! LILEE! It also fit PERFECTLY with the spelling of RENEE(which is MY middle name). The spelling flows...Lilee Renee! She is our little Lilee Bean....LalalalaLileeee...the name just fits out chunk perfectly!!

NOW...do you wanna hear all the other names we have picked out for our football team...that's how many kids I'd have to have to give them all the names I love!!:) Guess we'll all just have to wait and see WHO comes to our family next!!:)

Thanks for tagging me, Sara, this was a lot of fun and GREAT for journal-ing!!

NOW....I TAG...ROCHELLE, ASHLEY, BRITTNEY, BRITTANY, CAROLINE, KIMBER, SHELLEY, STEFANIE, and TAMARA! I also tag WHITNEY...but just because I want to know what you are naming your little bun in the oven!!:)

Mickey it is...

2008-03-14T09:54:00.000-07:00

WARNING: EXTREMELY PHOTO HEAVY POST

FOUR KIDS

THREE ADULTS

ONE VAN

THE HAPPIEST PLACE ON EARTH

Add them together and what do you get?

A STINKIN' FUN TIME!!!

As you can imagine...we chose DISNEYLAND!! It was SO MUCH FUN!! I'm so glad Keat and I got to spend some alone time together just mommy and Keaton!! Here are some pictures from our adventure.

We left about 6:30pm and had a "FUN" trip with the little ones!! Good thing for DVD players!

Riding the tram to Disneyland...it was a CHOO CHOO TWAIN to Keat...he was so excited he wouldn't look at the camera for more than half a second!

Waiting in line for the teacups!!! (notice the 1st time visitor button)

These two(Keat and Rylie) are best buds and were more than happy to give eachother a little squeeze!!

On the teacups...he LOVED it!

ToonTown...letting the kiddos run for a bit!!

Rylie, Tate, and Keat laughing at the funny noises Goofy's piano made!!

He looks like he's crying, but he was dying laughing!!

Tenille and Tate on Pirates of the Carribean...we went on it twice because the line was so short and Keat LOVED it...each time he got off the boat he CLAPPED!!!

35 inches means it's MATTERHORN time...and luckily with shoes, Keat is big enough!! SO...we conquered the MOUNTAIN!!! When Keat got off this ride this mother looked at her OLDER son who has afraid and said, "C'mon...if HE can do it, YOU can do it!! Keat shouted HOORAY when it was finished!! I love my daring boy!!

The group...me and Keat, Tenille and Tate, and Hailey and Rylie...Colt came the next day!

FINALLY...Keat fell asleep about 6:30pm. He was ZONKED...but he was awakened by the sweet kisses of miss Rylie...she about tackled him!! SO CUTE!!

On the way home!!

Some catch up photos now.

Last week a bunch of friends got together for a Mommy's group. We all made the trek to Scottsdale to go to the McKormick Ranch Railroad Park. It was quite the site with 6 cars/SUV's/minivan's caravaning (is that a word?) on the I10!! The weather was PERFECT and the company was so great!! Here are some highlights!!

We had 7 or so mommies and LOTS of kiddos!!

L-R...Tyler, Kiera, Keat, Madix, and Amy

All packed together to ride the train...Front to Back...Carly(Hailey's sis) with Lilee, Kimber with Tyler and Madix, Jessica with Kiera, Amy with Alex and Aiden, Mandy with Kolby and Brady, and Lindsey with Amy. Keat, Hailey, Colt, Rylie, Tenille, and Tate were on the other side.

Cutsie Madix and Baldy Lilee...what sweeties!

And here are some photos from the week earlier at the same railroad park with Grandma Francois...

Keat with Grandma...showing off his new shirt that

I have spent a lot of this last month planning/preparing for a friend's babyshower which was this past weekend. Here are some photos of the decorations...it turned out GREAT...so girly! I can't wait to meet Miss Gabriella!!

Welcome Guests...

One of the tables!

Another table

All three tables outside with the "poof" balls we made hanging from the ceiling!

The cupCAKE(s) ...no we did NOT make this!!:) Thank You SAMS!! (notice the sleeping baby on the flower...too cute)

Cookie Bouquets for favors...YES WE DID MAKE THESE!!!:)

It was a really fun shower!!!

And finally...

INTRODUCING SHREK...the FOURTH!!!

Miss Lilee "helping" daddy cook dinner!! WHAT A CHUNK...this one fits into Keat's size 5 diapers better than he does...but for now she'll stay in size 4's...as tight as they may be!! We sure love our solid little chunk!!

Decisions, decisions

2008-03-10T14:26:00.000-07:00

Potty Training or Disneyland?

Disneyland or Potty Training?

Well, as you can imagine...I chose Disneyland!! AHhhhhhhhhhh, am I TOTALLY insane?! We were SUPPOSED to start potty training today, but then better plans came along and instead...I am leaving for DISNEYLAND TOMORROW NIGHT!!!!!! AHhhhhhhh, I'm taking Keat for a mommy/son date and will be back on Thursday. I'm going with a couple great friends and their kiddos! I am SOooooooo not the type of person to do this, but it's the HAPPIEST PLACE ON EARTH...right?! Who could pass that up!? I really hope he behaves and things are fun, but I'm sure they will be...although I am a bit nervous!! AHhhhhhhhhhh, I still can't believe I'm doing this!! Wish us luck...oh, and potty training will begin NEXT WEEK!! Stay tuned for details with that saga!! I'll post photos when I get back!!!

LEAPING FOR LOGAN!!

2008-03-02T19:00:00.001-08:00

To go along with Logan's Birthday...I have created a TEAM to walk at this year's March of Dimes walk in PHX. It is on APRIL 19th at 8am. I am hoping to get as many people together to walk as possible. Our team is called, "LEAPING FOR LOGAN"! Send the site to whoever you would like so we can raise as much money for this cause as possible...it is something that is very near and dear to my heart! Thanks and I HOPE many of you will join me on April 19th!

http://www.marchforbabies.org/507072

My Logan's Birthday!

2008-03-02T18:30:00.000-08:00

Today is a day of mixed emotions for me and my dear husband. It has been three years since we had to say Goodbye to our little angel Logan. Although it is a sad day to remember, it is also the day he ENTERED our lives and we are so grateful for the influence he has had and will have on our family. We love him deeply and miss him terribly. I feel so blessed to be able to have the Gospel in my life. I know that Families can be Together Forever and I KNOW that I will see my baby boy again some day. I am SO lucky and proud to be his mommy. Here is a little montage of my angel baby. Again, be sure to turn the volume off from the music at the bottom of the page first. Any of the quotes, poems, sentiments other than personal accounts on this montage are not mine. However, they describe very closely how I felt/feel!

We love you Logan!

Make an on-line slide show at www.OneTrueMedia.com