story of us

Sweet Sounds

2012-02-15T20:08:00.001-08:00

I can't think of anything cuter than this baby. He is our little love bug and gets more attention than most, BUT can u blame us his is so stinkin cute and fun. Hampton thinks everything he does is so perfect and is so protective of his little buddy. He is still our dream baby, and is starting to develop a little personality. Watching him grow is so bittersweet.

Last Friday Night

2012-02-03T14:28:00.000-08:00

I came downstairs at this time....

and found these two like this....

All I can say is that it's a real good thing we have friends that came over shortly after kids went down, or our Friday night date night would have turned out super LAME-O!!

SNOW

2012-01-21T08:20:00.000-08:00

We got so much snow this past week. They said it was record snowfall in one day for some areas. We had alot of fun in it, although we did have some close calls. We got stuck a few times and slid down a hill or two in our car. Mike was home all week, except Friday, due to icy roads and he was unable to get to Seattle. So we really enjoyed having him home. We spent lots of time with friends and Hampton seriously ate about 10 bowls of snow per day. The other night I called for him to come to the table for dinner and he yells back, "no thanks mom. I just had a bowl of snow for dinner, so I'm good." He is so funny.

This is Hampton's new best friend. He loves Claire so much and they get along really really well. He and Claire Bear ate about 4 of these bowls full of snow. When I went to find him, these were curled up watching a movie eating their snow like it was ice cream. Hey atleast they were happy and it cost me nothing!!! It rained last night and now all the snow is gone, but we really enjoyed it and Hampton had a great time sledding by his self for the first time.

4mos and pure perfection

2012-01-21T08:03:00.000-08:00

4mos old now and he can answer to any of the following...Finnley, Finn, Finnigan, Finny, and whatever else we come up with. The wetness on his shirt is just a small amount of drool that you can find on him at any given point. This kid is a constant faucet and always has soaking wet shirts. He is starting to loose some of his hair and I have personally given him about 3 haircuts (Mike has now taken the scissors away from me). I keep thinking that the newness is going to wear off for all of us, but it just hasn't. He oozes sweetness and we are so in love with him. He is still our angel baby and has began to recognize all the love.

Hampton is so good with him. I could never attempt to describe all the cuteness that goes on between these two.

Anytime Finn is sleeping, Hampton just waits by the monitor for brother to wake up. The minute he wakes, Hampton takes off running and jumps into bed and loves on his brother until I get there. It's so rewarding as a mother to watch your first love the second so much. I am so excited to watch these two grow as brothers. Finn is so lucky to have so much love and protection from an older brother.

At his 4mo appointment, he weighed 14.10(50%) and was 26inches long(75%). He goes to bed around 7:30 and sleeps through the night until about 8:30....I'm really lucky!! I know I sound like our life is so easy with 2 kids and that this baby is so perfect, but having 2 kids has seriously made our life so much sweeter. He really is an incredible baby, and there are really busy days, days where I get nothing done, days when I come home from the grocery store angry at my children, and days where I never get showered and dressed for the day. Finn has been a night and day different child than Hampton was, and I am just eating up this baby. He is always so happy and very rarely cries. He is so predictable, and if he does cry he usually wants food or sleep. I told Mike that I should really enjoy this because Finn will be my silent but deadly kid. I feel like he will be super busy and into everything. I had to do very little baby proofing for Hampton, he just didn't care what was happening around him....he was too busy crying all the time(LOL). I am excited to watch this little guy grow and see how comes into his own. I know the Lord knows me so well and sent me this little one for a reason. When I was pregnant, I kept getting these strong impressions that he was going to be our little peacemaker and that he would do noting but bring joy into our life...and that's exactly what Finn has done.

CTR

2012-01-21T07:15:00.000-08:00

At the beginning of the New Year, Hampers was bumped up in his primary class to CTR. I actually totally spaced that he would move up, but at the end of church I go to find him and I see this little hand in the air while running towards me. He was glowing about his new ring and it was a brief moment that I glowed myself and thought how sad it will be when these things won't matter to him. I know my kids are obviously going to grow up, but if anyone finds out how to freeze time, I want to be the first to be in on it.

Christmas 2011

2011-12-28T22:01:00.000-08:00

Our Christmas was pretty low key this year. We don't do anything out of the ordinary during the holiday season. We did however deliver a Christmas tree, ornaments, and toys to a really needy family this year and that felt really great. I know Hampton may or may not remember doing this in a year or two, but I appreciate the traditions that we are beginning to create for our kids. On Christmas Eve, we went to Grandma and Grandpas for dinner. We had great company, good food, and lots of presents to open. We came home and put on our cozy Christmas Eve jammies, read the scripture story of Christ birth, put out treats, and off to bed. As I kissed Hampton good night and told him to go to bed so Santa could come, I wondered just how many millions of mothers were telling their children the same thing?! Such a magical time of year.
Christmas morning came and we had decided as a family that we would wait to open gifts after church. We told Hampton he could open his stocking, but that was it. Surprisingly enough, he was totally ok with it. It took him a while to realize it was Christmas morning, but once he did, he was pretty excited. Life through Hampton's eyes it so exciting. He makes everything so fun and his cheer is so contagious.
After church was over, we had family over to watch gift opening, and have breakfast casserole. We spent the entire day at home, playing with new toys, trying on new clothes, taking naps, and enjoying the company of ourselves!! We hope everyone had a great Christmas, and if you didn't receive a card from our family this year, it wasn't because we didn't love all of you.......I was just a total slacker this year!!

His grandma knows him well...look at the excitement in his eyes.

Christmas Eve

My sweet Finn and I ready for church. How cute is he in his bow tie I made for him? I could eat him 24/7. He is so sweet and his smell makes me weak. Love him

Here is a little video of Hampton opening the one gift he wanted most. It was the big gray boat from Cars 2.

Christmas night and ready for bed in their new jammies. They make life and especially holidays so sweet. We are so thankful for this time of year and the real purpose we celebrate this beautiful holiday.

A not so bright idea...

2011-12-28T21:20:00.000-08:00

So about a month ago, Mike went on a service project and they delivered phone books. He came home and said that we could do it as a family to earn a little extra money over the holiday break. He really wanted Hampton to help out so he could learn to make a little money to buy Christmas presents. I was on bored, and didn't think that it sounded that bad, especially because it wouldn't take from our time as a family. He came home with the "first" set of books (about 2500) and said he had to go back for more. I said lets tackle this and then we will see if we want to do more. (side note...we never went back for the rest!!)

So with this little mess in my garage, we began spending hours upon hours stuffing bags, and kept saying what the H were we thinking!! Hampton was such a huge help with everything. So once we realized we bit of more than we could chew, we recruited our niece Brittany to help us out.

We have been out 4 different times and have finally wrapped up. When we would be out delivering, we would think it was really hard. But when we would come home and realize what great exercise it was, how great the kids did, and the extra money made we thought it wasn't all that bad. I do have to brag and little and say my kids were beyond troopers. Each time we would go out anywhere from 5-7hrs and they were awesome. Hampton really loved running books and I would have to make him take breaks from the cold. He really makes me so proud.

This house won the "ugliest house we delivered" award!

Whenever Finn would get hungry, we would take a little break and let him stretch out, eat, and then back to business. So CUTE!

Santa 2011

2011-12-12T22:39:00.000-08:00

It's that time of year...

We go to the mall, visit Santa, tell him what we want and hope momma gets a decent picture. We have seen Santa a few times now. This last time, Hampton got on Santa's lap and told a story. I told Santa he loves to talk, and he replied with "Well I love to listen." I thought that was pretty cute. Hampton gave him play by play of what he wanted(even brought Lightening McQueen with him to show Santa) and Santa payed great attention. Finn looks less than enthused, but at least I got a picture of these two cute boys!

(I love this picture of Santa getting the low down on Hampers Christmas list)

Finn at 3mos

2011-12-12T22:13:00.000-08:00

My Finnley is 3mos old now, and he is such a joy to this family. He is a little mommas boy, but is absolutely crazy about his brother. The very first time he laughed was because Hampton was singing to him. He lights up every time his brother comes around. The only negative thing I can saw about this little angel is that HE WILL NOT take good naps during the day. I try and try to get him to nap more than 20min, and he just won't give in. The funny thing is, he still just as happy and sweet with his little power naps here and there. I have to remember that Hampton didn't start doing his 2hr naps until he was about 6mos old, so I just need to enjoy this baby and not wish him to grow up. He has not lost any hair, and it's still just as beautiful. I gave him his first hair cut last night, and I just can't get enough of how cute he looks. He sleeps incredible at night (about 8pm-8am, and wakes up once for about 20min to eat), and always wakes up grinning from ear to ear. I have been doing some nursing and some bottles, but this past weekend he started to cry every time I would nurse him and would not latch on. I think he has decided he is done with me, but I'm still pushing him to nurse(I'm not quite ready to give up that time with him). We are still over the moon for this little guy, and I'm afraid he is becoming a little spoiled over all the attention(but that's OK with me).

We give Thanks-

2011-12-04T22:22:00.000-08:00

Thanksgiving this year was super fun and super low key. We took our kids and went to Shauna and Scott's for 5 days to celebrate the holidays. It was just the two families, but it still seemed to be crazy with kids. I think it was because they all played so hard together and would get each other all hyped up. There was lots of food, soda, candy, football games, card games, hot tubing, shuffle board, taboo, and best of all lots of laughter. My boys have turned into the best travelers, which makes it a little more fun to put all the work into going places. The kids all got along so well, with the exception of Hampton and Gracie (although they still have love for one another). Hampton is still walking around telling me funny things the girls did, and Finn is use to being put down!! Everyone got lots of love and we feel so thankful and blessed for our families. Thanks Hegwers for a great weekend.

Finn received so much love and attention

Kylie took such good care of Finners. She gave him so much love and it was much appreciated!

Just had to show this picture of the my super cute baby. He will be 3mos old this week and is to DIE for. He gives so much love and the best smiles. We are all in love with him and kiss him non stop. I'm so thankful for my loving boys...all 3 of them!

Look who turned 4!

2011-12-04T22:05:00.000-08:00

We have made it to the lucky age 4. I have always heard that anytime you have a little one that gives you a hard time, there is something about turning 4 that is pure magic. Although he has only been 4 for a few weeks now, we have actually noticed a magical change in him over the past month. I'm not sure if it is the fact that he is getting older, or is it that he is no longer number 1 and has to share his parents. He really is such a great kid and we feel so blessed to be his parents.
For his birthday, we kept things very simple. He picked out a Despicable Me cake and "white ice cream." He had family over for Costco hot dogs, baked beans, and chips. Hampton was very lucky to receive so many great toys and most of all his train table. Grandpa Richeson made this table for him and it means so much to him and us. The best part was having my dad and his girlfriend Angie here for the weekend. I miss my family so much, and especially miss them being a part of my kids life. It was really great weekend and a great birthday for my little boy.

He loved his presents. Every one that he opened, he would get really excited and say "oh my gosh, it's..." and say what each one was. This kid is so fun and rewarding to buy gifts for.

Right when he woke up, he came running down to check on his cake and was so excited to be 4.

Dad and Angie in charge of the cake and ice cream

All in a days work

2011-12-04T21:44:00.000-08:00

My Hampton leaves me little surprises all around the house. I am not exaggerating when I tell you this child plays from the moment he wakes up from the moment he goes to bed. He unloads all his toys and lines them up all over the place. Funny thing is that it's not a phase at all, he has actually been doing this for about 2 years. Sometimes it can be annoying because they are seriously all over the house, but at the end of the day and he has gone to bed, it always makes me laugh when I turn the corner and see his days work.

These are soup cans that he used to make a buzz light year train.

These little elephants were discovered at the end of my bed. I saw them when I made my bed and all could do was laugh.

These little candies he put in the corner of Finn's room. He was saving them for after his bath.

Me & Nordy's are no different

2011-11-17T07:44:00.000-08:00

I too am taking a stand with Nordstrom!!!! Listen, I love Christmas just as much as all of you, and we have been listening to Christmas music for the past week or so, and we have been to about 4 different store to scout out the best Christmas decor this year....BUT this momma bird and her family are still enjoying all the fall colors and giving thanks for the next week or so :) !!

2011-11-12T09:57:00.000-08:00

OMG is all I have to say about this little cutie! I could seriously talk about my kids all day, especially this little baby. Finn has to be the cutest most loved little one in the world. We are all so in love with him, that when he wakes up (which is after us, because it's 9:45am and he is still sleeping so peacefully) we all 3 race in there to see him. Then we all act so cheesy and talk to him until he coughs up one of these smiles! He is seriously the best little guy. Everyone told me that every mom gets one, and I am so glad I did(i had my doubts). Mike and I call him our little gift from Heaven. He is so good and seriously never cries. He goes to bed around 8pm and usually sleeps until 8 or 9 the next morning and wakes up twice each night to eat. He loves his crib and has started sleeping better there than with me, makes me a little sad. I was so worried that when Finn was born that we would lose out on all the freedom we were beginning to have with a 3yr old. We are constantly on the go and do alot of fun things, but I'm happy to say nothing has changed. We cart this baby every where and he is such a trooper.

He is 2mos old now and weighs 9.8lbs(about 3weeks ago), so I'm thinking he is about 10lbs now. He was in the 15th% for weight, and 75th for height. He is so tiny, but so stinkin adorable. Hampton is obsessed and very very protective, which I love. Finnley completes our family in so many ways. My boys are so different, but fill my cup up each day. My life is far from perfect and having 2 kids is a huge adjustment(even with an angel babe), but I'm so blessed to have kids that give me the little joys that make me feel like there is no other place I would rather be.

Exploring

2011-11-09T17:19:00.000-08:00

A couple of Saturday's ago, Mike came home and wanted us to get ready to go out and explore. I was super excited, because this is something I always want to do and Mike usually does not. So I very quickly packed some snacks, got the kids ready and we were off. We ended up driving to Deceptions Pass, Anacortes, and La Conner. These are all very cute towns, like something out of a movie. Deceptions Pass was super scary for me. Watching my little man running along this very high bridge with cars racing by, left me with a mother's worst nightmare. We ended up all having the best time and the kids were absolute champs. No one cried and all were happy.

Seriously so high up and so so scary for this momma!

It's that time of year-

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

I like every person out there, love this time of year. I love everything that it brings and all the smells that fill my house. We did all the normal activities for the month of October. We went to a pumpkin patch, carved pumpkins, have had about 10 pots of soup, and of course Spider man did his thing on Halloween. Trick-or-treating in our neighborhood was a blast. It was like something out of a movie....kids running every where, parents talking in the streets, and every home handing out some serious good candy. Hampton had a great time and can't wait to do it again(neither can I) next year!

This is what Hampton did the entire time Mike carved his pumpkin. I seriously laughed until I cried, it was so funny. Mike was enjoying it as well...can u tell?!

My precious precious boys.

The loot...and I'm so proud to say I didn't eat ONE single piece this year. BOO-YEAH i say!!!!!!!

What I'm Thankful for...

2011-11-07T07:58:00.000-08:00

That this is my back yard...11th hole on the golf course. It's the best view, and I love waking up to open my curtains and see this everyday.

That Mike is home everyday in time to spend time with Hampton. This is usually what they are doing...and it's the cutest thing ever.

We are loving this house and living here. I miss so much about ID and my house there, but we are finding our way here and getting more adjusted. Our days have not been perfect and without some frustrations from each of us, but we are finding the positive in it all and loving our new life!!

Finn's Blessing

2011-10-14T20:26:00.000-07:00

We are such a blessed family! We had many come from near and far to see this little angel blessed by his daddy.

It was such a great weekend. We had Ben and Mikelle and their two boys, and it was such a blast. The boys were too cute and I could not get enough of watching Hampton's excitement to have his cousins back around. Like all good things must come to an end, so when the weekend was over, I think the boys were ready for a break from each other and some much needed sleep. Regardless, it was priceless!

Mike gave our sweet Finnley a very fitting blessing. It was so tender and a day we most certainly will NEVER forget. Finn has blessed our life in ways we could never dream of. The Lord truly knew what he was doing when he sent Finn to our family. We are all so in love with him, and think he is absolutely perfect.

We want to thank the Hegwers and Richesons for making the long drive, and for all the other family members near by that were a part of our special day. We love our family and feel so grateful to always have their support.

Pikes Place

2011-10-03T10:44:00.000-07:00

As most of you may or may not know, we have moved to Washington. Mike got a great job in the Seattle area and we jumped on it! I was so sad to leave my home in Boise, but we LOVE it here. We looked for houses everywhere, and long story made short, we ended up in a great house in Mt. Vernon, WA. We live in the same town Mike grew up in and we are less than an hour from Seattle.

My mom flew out with us this past week, so for her last day here we went to the city for the day. When I say for the day, I mean for the day. We left around 11am and got home at 10pm. I was super nervous that my kids would not hold up, but they were champs and loved it. Finnley slept all day and Hampton actually fell asleep in his stroller for 2 hrs, so we got some really good site seeing done. Mom loved the city, and all I kept thinking was I can't believe I live here. It's so beautiful and we are ready and up for company whenever YOU are ready to visit us!!!!!!

He is 3 weeks old and we are surviving!!

2011-10-03T10:37:00.000-07:00

How in the world does a mom pick just a few pictures to post of the sweetest baby in the world??!! I simply can't get enough of Finnley and he is making our life so great. He is 3 weeks old now and I went from being nervous to add to our family, to wondering how sad my life would be without 2 boys. I feel like I am adjusting really well. I mean I did was homeless for 5 weeks, then flew cross country to a new town, new house, husband with a new job, and a new baby. I hate to brag, but with all that happening, I feel like I am doing better than I expected. Now the roof could cave in on me any day now, but I am loving it so far. I have heard so many things about having 2 kids, from it's the best and easiest transition to it's the hardest thing you will ever do. I feel like I am somewhere in the middle. Finn is by far the perfect baby, so I feel that has made the transition pretty smooth. He very rarely cries, wakes up only once or twice a night, sleeps in his crib, and loves his bouncy seat. Mike and I are holding our breath that this is permanent, but be prepared that if this baby decides to make a turn, I will be having a nervous breakdown and will not be a cheerful as I am now.

Hampton is a great brother, but all this change has not left him without any scars!! He is doing great, but does get really high strung and does really silly things for attention. I am having a really hard time being patient with him, but I think it's because I just have so much to do to settle into this new house, that I have little time for him. I know he will level out soon, but in the mean time Mike has had to step in as the only loving patient parent in this house!!

My kid has moves

2011-10-03T10:22:00.000-07:00

This summer Hampton became very close to his cousins and his Aunt Amy. He has spent A.LOT of time there, especially after I had Finn. Well, to say that my sisters' house is fun and crazy is quite the understatement. Hampton loves it there, especially because his craziness fits in perfectly. One of our last nights there, the kids put on a really cute dance show. Amy has this CD that is the best. It's primary songs with a hip hop twist and Hampton ask to listen to it everyday now. Enjoy watching my kid groove just like his daddy!

Finnley Lucas Richeson

2011-09-11T13:42:00.000-07:00

Our sweet baby boy arrived to us on Saturday (09-10-11) at 8:30 am weighing 7lbs 14oz and 20 1/4' inches long. He is such a doll baby and is more beautiful than I could have ever dreamed up on my own. Our family feels so complete and Finn has the sweetest spirit. Every time I look at him I feel my heart leap out of my chest. Mom's in love, Dad's in love, and big brother is absolutely smitten. Hampton can't get enough of Finn and it has the be the cutest thing I have ever seen. I couldn't be more under slept and more in love with my family. Enjoy some pictures of our new chapter and new beginning!

How did we get here...so fast?

2011-09-07T06:43:00.000-07:00

Besides this little boy being so stinkin cute, he has also grown up so much. He is such a little spoiled stinker, but I couldn't any 3yr old child more. As we have been busy making our final preparations for Finn, he has become so excited about his baby brother. I am a little un easy how it will all come together, especially due to the fact that we are "under construction" right now. We are staying with family for a total of 5 weeks, we are moving to a new place(more on that later), having a new family member, dad has a new job, and do we even begin to talk about what a beast he has for a mother right now!!

I am seriously doing my best to make this last week with our little family of 3 be the best I can, but it just can't always be perfect. We are doing lots of snuggling in bed together, sleeping together, playing together, giving lots of kisses, and of course just enjoying what we have known for the past 3 1/2yrs. We are staying with my sister and her family right now, so although I may not be doing a very good job as a mother, at least Hampton is having a blast.

Hampton has grown up so fast, and I have to say that I have really enjoyed watching him grow. He has progressively gotten easier and easier, and we have the best talks together. Sometimes in the mornings he will come into my bed and we will lay there for about 30 min or more and just talk about whatever he would like. I know that when he turns 14, and he tells me that I make his life so miserable and he wants to go live with some other family, I will cry for the days when he was pulling on my clothes to please come play cars or trains with him. BUT for now, growing up with him is SO.MUCH.FUN.

I know that he will seriously be the such a great big brother. He has such a big heart and cares so much about our family. The other day I was talking to Mike and of course crying and I look down and Hampton has tears streaming down his face. I look at him and ask, "oh honey what's wrong?" He replies, "I'm just so sad so see you crying." He is certainly not perfect, but he can come pretty dang close on some days. I pray that he will always know how much he is loved, even when I may choose to speak in an extremely loud tone on most days, and how much his Heavenly Father loves him. I truly believe he is such a special spirit and the Lord has such great plans for him someday.

I am very excited to add to our family in T minus 3 days. I know that Finnley is coming to us at such a perfect time and he will bring such peace into our home. Look for pictures to come...but not too soon. I'll be turning 30 at the same time, so I am in no hurry to face the world in pictures just yet!!!!

Our Summer...is ending

2011-08-28T13:20:00.000-07:00

Look at these two...sometimes I look at pictures like this and wonder why I don't count my blessings more often. They are such best friends and Hampton literally treats his dad like a real hero. I love every minute of it, especially because I couldn't be more of a loser mom these days(the end of this pregnancy is doing a real number on me).

This summer has been far from perfect, but we have really enjoyed the activities that we did get to do. We have wrapped up our summer sales and are now awaiting the birth our Finnley.

Summer started out a little different for us this year. We didn't have any of our friends with us and and it was just our family and the reps this year. For us, this was a first in 6 years. It was super hard for all three of us, especially because all three of us love to be social. We love our summer sales friends and the fun we have had over the years, but this year was a good year for us to be alone as a family. My family did give us a lot of their time, but if we were not with them, we would get pretty lonely at times. I was especially lonely with no car during the day and no girlfriends to vent to on a daily basis...or better yet no kids to entertain my Hampton. I mean, how many hours do each of you want to play monster trucks, cars, and trains...it got old pretty fast. So with that little disclaimer, summer was good, but was not without it's hard times. We are grateful for another year that has come and gone and now look forward to moving onto fall.

We have left our apartment in Jax, and are crashing with my family until Finn is born and we are able to travel. Hampton is handling all the change fairly well, but I have noticed some struggles he is having. I feel so awful at times and how confused he must be. We are spending 2 weeks here, then 1 week there, and then another 2 weeks there again...and then hopefully home. It all must be so overwhelming, but I am doing my best to give him all the love I can before his little world gets turned upside down. He generally handles change really well, so here's to staying optimistic!!

Family Vacay

2011-08-09T10:31:00.000-07:00

As I have mentioned on countless occasions, we.love.the.beach. My dad rented a condo on the beach in St. Augustine (about 30min from us here in Jax). My sister and I joined in on the fun and stayed at the beach for 8days straight with my dad. Our husbands joined for a few days here and there and the kids had the time of their life. I think there was one day that it rained all day and the kids were a little edgy, so that was probably the only thing that was no fun. We spent everyday either at the beach or in the pool. Hampton would play so hard that he would crash for about 3hrs everyday, so that is when my sister and I would head to the beach to sunbathe and talk for hours. It was seriously one of the best weeks at the beach I have ever had. We went once when Hamtpon was only 8mos old and he hated everything about it. He would cry the entire time we would be outside...it was so depressing for me. This year, if he was awake, he was asking to either go play in the ocean or in the pool. He loved it and even learned to body surf in the ocean. Thanks dad for another great trip and memories that will seriously last us a life time!!

Not sure if you can tell, but this is the day it stormed ALL DAY. There was no lightening, so my dad took all 6 kids out and played football in the pool for about an hour. My dad was just like this for us as kids too. So much fun for the little ones

Best Friends, or more like brothers!

My brave little swimmer

2011-08-09T10:16:00.000-07:00

Hampton loves to swim. It has become my very favorite thing to do with him and watch him do as well. I love going with him everyday and practicing his tricks and working on becomming a better swimmer. As much as I love the water and to swim, I don't always love getting in with him. I would sometimes prefer to just watch, but we still have a great time not matter what. He has been working on his dives, swimming back stroke, his cannon balls, and whatever other trick he comes up with. He has no concept of shallow/deep end. He just runs and jumps in no matter where we are. I am so proud how brave he has become and has grown to have a passion just like his mother. He has started to dive in at the deep end and touch the bottom with both hands and then come back to the top, and that makes him really excited. This has definately been the hightlight of our summer. Here are several videos of him...can u tell how proud I am :) Good job buddy and keep up the good work-

Happy Birthday

2011-08-09T09:06:00.000-07:00

About 2 weeks ago we celebrated our daddy turning the big 38! Mike has a crazy obsession with bubble gum ice cream. It dates back to his childhood and brings him real joy to eat it. He has now passed this onto Hampton. The other day he called Grandma and said "Grandma we have bubble gum ice cream and it's the best stuff ever." Mike is picky about his bubble gum ice cream...it CAN NOT have chunks of bubble gum in it. So for our very hard working daddy, we thought what better gift than his special ice cream, meal of his choice, and enjoying a very tasty cake. Happy Birthday to a very special man in our life.

Hands on Museum

2011-08-09T08:59:00.000-07:00

We have a really cute hands on children's museum down the road from us and Hampton LOVES playing there. I think it's merely due to the fact that there are 4 different train tables for him to play with and that is absolute heaven for my little boy. He seriously stayed at those tables for about an hour...a little boring for me but great to him. The other really cute stop was the grocery store. I was cracking up at him trying to check these little girls out and give them their $20 (as he would say). He will still say to me..."mom can we go to the store and buy a toy?" "no Hampers, you don't have any extra money for a toy." "yes I do, I have my $20 from the museum." I am pretty sure that money has been spent about a dozen times. All in all is was a really fun experience and hope we can squeeze in another trip before leaving FL.

Gator Country

2011-08-09T08:49:00.000-07:00

Florida is DIE HARD Gator country. My mom works at the University of Florida, so we always have an open invite to come visit the school and football field. This particular day, Hampton and I went to have lunch GaGa at the school and then took a few cute pics.

These days...

2011-07-10T08:40:00.003-07:00

Source: s3.amazonaws.com via Sarah on Pinterest

I found this picture on Pinterest and when I saw it, I showed Mike and told him this is exactly how I feel these days. I'm hoping that this feeling only last about 7 weeks longer and then I will be trading it in for my big fat dark racoon eyes!!

Proud Momma

2011-06-14T16:59:00.000-07:00

One thing that has been pretty important to me is to teach my kids to swim. I love the water and I want them to have that same love and desire that I grew up having. Last year I put Hampton in some swim lessons and he learned some really great basic skills. We worked on them through out the summer and then this summer he picked up right where we left off. We seriously go to the pool 7 days a week, and sometimes we go a couple times a day. After a little work and watching his cousins take off in the water, Hampton was determined to be just like his twin cousins. He is doing so well, and I am so proud of him. It makes going to the pool so much fun and it wears him out!! I still stay near him in case he tires out, and if I try to help him he very quickly will say "I'm big, I got it mom." I'm not sure what the constant head bob is in this video, but it was at the end of our pool trip so he was probably tiring out. Great job Hampton, momma is so proud of how big you are!!

very little something...

2011-06-06T09:24:00.000-07:00

These came in the mail today, and as soon as I opened them I felt my heart squeeze itself. Everytime I peek at them I can instantly imagine him smelling of baby lotion and me kissing his sweet little neck all day long. These little shoes are so so tiny and oh so yummy.

Taxi to Toys R Us Please

2011-06-03T09:58:00.000-07:00

While every weekend is filled with so much fun, our weeks seem to drag on. Hampton and I have been without a car since we got here, and I have no problem telling the world how bad it sucks. I am and have never been a person that enjoys staying home everyday. Since we live only 3miles from the GREATEST shopping center EVER, I figured I would take matters into my own hands. I had planned to cab it over to St. Johns Town Center and spend at least the majority of the afternoon there, and then have a dinner date with my boy. Due to the fact Hampton decided to nap for 4hrs yesterday and the cab took an hour to come get us, it didn't go exactly how i planned. I kept telling Hampton that since it was getting late maybe we should wait and go another day. He just begged and begged to please wait a little longer and we did just that. We ended up spending most of our night out at Toys R Us. They have a massive Cars 2 display, a train table, and of course any other toy you could imagine out for him to play with. After playing for over an hour, we made our way to our favorite restaurant Bentos and had a little date just us two. We then went for a walk and listened to a live band and Hampton danced in the street like no one was watching!! After a fun filled evening we called our cab and got home around 10 last night. I'm so glad we went and it was exactly what we both needed. Hampton kept telling me..."Mom, I had so much fun with you tonight," which makes every minute of it worth my time.

Hampton and I waiting so patiently for our cab

Hampton at dinner. His faced was covered in rice and he didn't even seem to care.

Playing in the water fountains.

Putt Putt and Shrimpie

2011-05-30T11:08:00.000-07:00

As part of our weekend we went to a resturant that I have been going to every summer since I was a kid. It's called Osteens and it's really well known for it's A.M.A.Z.I.N.G shrimp. They are huge and worth every dollar. It's a local dive that is a hole in the wall, but people come from all over to eat there and you usually have to wait several hrs to eat. Due to the fact it was a 2hr wait on Sat night, we got take out. We had a picnic in the car and then took Hampers to play putt putt. My boy loves golf and played the entire 18 holes of putt putt. After we were done, Hampton told his daddy that he had so much fun and it was a great idea. His next question was...when can we go again. Mike is so so so busy these days, that we get very little time with just him. This was exactly what we needed as a family, and had a blast doing it.

2hr plus wait for Osteens

Just as tasty in our car with our sanity left with us!

Our little familia

Beach Weekend

2011-05-30T10:46:00.000-07:00

Before I post any pictures, I feel a need to give a little history about my family. Ever since I was about 6yrs old, my parents would take us four kids to St. Augustine and stay at the same ocean front condo every year up until they divorced. It is one of my favorite memories growing up in Fl, and it's probably why my siblings and I love the beach so much. My brother Clay has kept the tradition going with his family, and this past week was their week to be there. They were there for 10 days and he invited all us to come and be a part. My dad came along with my sister and her 2 girls, my brother Cole and his wife, and of course Hampton and I (Mike joined in on the fun Sunday). It was one of my very favorite weekends yet. When we were kids, we would seriously be on the beach or at the pool by 10 am and not come in until dinner time around 6. Just because we are grown, this go round was no exception. We spent hour upon hour just chatting, laughing, and watching our kids play just as we did. Having our parents divorce after 32yrs has been one of the very hardest things we have ever been through, but being together this weekend made us realize how blessed we are to have these memories to tie us together so strongly. I love Amy, Clay, and Cole more than they will ever know and feel so blessed to be tied to them as family. Hampton had a blast and I have never seen him swim or play so hard. He is really really sun burnt, but keeps telling me he is ok. The only problem is that I have had about 3 people stop me in the store this am telling me about skin cancer and I better be careful with his fare skin. The kid had on 50 all weekend, can I help that he's not a Hackney?!!!! He's a tough cookie and we are spending the day inside to help recover!

My beautiful family

My brother Cole forcing his love on Hampton. My family isn't really good at respecting personal bubbles!!

My sister-in-law who is due a week after me. We were best friends in high school and college room mates.

Dad, Jess, and Cole

The fam lounging together in the pool

Hampers and daddy wrestling in the pool.

After a fun filled weekend in the sun, we have a modern day miracle...whitie has a tan line. His bum is no longer the same color as therest of his body.

You Tube

2011-05-30T09:38:00.000-07:00

About a month ago we told Hampton that Cars 2 would be coming out and it was so going to be so cool. He was a little confused, so we pulled up You Tube to watch the trailer and he was hooked. Then he discovered that there was this guy on there, that actually has probably around 10-15 diff videos, opening up all the new cars and showcasing them. Hampton now has discovered how to navigate his way around on the computer and watch lots and lots of Cars videos (new and old). He loves it so much, that I would venture to say that he spends about 2hrs a day tooling around and watching the same videos over and over again. He asked me last night if he could make his own video and show off all his new cars from Cars 2. After making about 6 different videos, here is his very own "you tube" video. I can't even tell you how hard I laughed. Hampton even says their names exactly like this guy on you tube, which cracks me up even more. So now you can see what we really do all day!! (Notice how his poor face is basically the same color as his pink shirt. He is pretty sun burnt after our weekend at the beach.)

6mos and counting...down

2011-05-27T15:10:00.000-07:00

Well I hate self pregnant portraits, but I want to be able to remember what I look and feel at this point in my pregnancy. I'm 6mos and it has been pretty easy so far. Now that I have done it almost 2 times, I am not one to hate being pregnant. I love nothing more than connecting with a little person that I have never met/seen, but love so much. I love to feel my babies move, and feel so blessed to take part in something that is so much bigger than me. What I absolute hate about being pregnant is how tired I feel. It's a tiredness that makes my bones hurt and being out of shape doesn't help either. I am so thankful that Hampton will still nap anywhere from 2-3hrs everyday...that is my saving grace.

What I want to remember most about this pregnancy is Hampton. He is so into it and talks about his brother quite often. When he says his prayers, he always says please bless my brother/the baby in Mommy's belly to grow big and strong. When I lay in bed with him at night, or when we are just snuggling on the couch, he always want to talk about his brother. He will ask things like...can he sleep next to me in my bed, can I hold him and feed him, I can't wait to give him a hug and kisses, I can't wait to share my toys with him, etc. My favorite is when he will ask to sing to his brother, which he always chooses I am a child of God, or when we lay down he will ask can he lay on my belly by his brother. I know some of you are thinking, well just wait till that baby arrives, it will change and be hard for everyone. You are probably right, but it's so sweet right now and I will just hang onto that for now. Hampton has been such a part of this pregnancy and has been to both ultrasound appointments and loves every minute of it. Each time he went he actually would say to the nurse, "excuse me...please don't hurt my mom or give her a shot." He is so loving and has such a big heart. It's been so sweet and I will miss day dreaming about our baby with him.

Here is baby boy's drawer. His clothes are all washed and folded just so. Not having a car during the day leaves me lots of free time. Mike asked me the other day, do I ever think about the baby? Everyday I told him. I find myself thinking about him constantly. I feel so at peace about adding another one to our family and feel that he is just what our home needs. I pray that I can be more patient this go round and just take it all in.

We have played around with baby names, but I think we may have gone back to the drawing board. We were pretty content on Finnley(call him Finn), but with it's growing popularity I am a little unsure. Here are some of our likes and would welcome any suggestions...

Finnley Aaron

Oliver(no middle name yet)

Bentley Lucas

Benson Claude

Calvin Lucas

Lucas Aaron(will NOT shorten to Luke)

Clayton Monroe(call him Monroe)

I still love Finn and Hampton really loves it, especially because of the new character from Cars2. So the name hunt continues, but that seems to be the only thing that we can't quite figure out!

River Fun

2011-05-27T13:47:00.000-07:00

About 2 weeks ago Hampton and I decided to go to my dad's for the week and just get away from stuffy apartment life. My dad lives out in the country on 2 acres and has so many things for us to do. We spent everyday out in the yard or at the park. My dad has a pool, trampoline, golf cart, and of course the boat. When my dad would get off work, he would always rush home and play with Hampers and I. I have been super lame-o with taking pictures this summer, but I was able to capture a few of our river day. My sister took off from school a little early and met us with her 5 kids and we played on the river all day long. It was a blast and I always feel super grateful for moments just like that.

Look at Hampton, he seriously was dying to get up there with the twins. He has an umbilical cord attached to those two boys, and gets a little worried when they get too far away from him.

Hampton loves driving the boat...he's a natural!

Seriously can't get enough of the face right now!

Due to lack of rain, the river was really low. When the river is low, it becomes super clear and you can see pretty much everything. While we were cruising along the river, my dad saw this manatee ahead and literally turned the boat off jumped in and swam along side the manatee. He was so beautiful and my dad was on cloud 9 the whole day. Crazy thing is, this is the second time we have gone and seen a manatee at the river. Such a cool experience.

Mother's Day

2011-05-09T16:51:00.000-07:00

Because of that little cutie pie, I had the chance to relish and take in the words of "Happy Mother's Day mommy". This is the first year that I really felt like that holiday was mine to celebrate. Although I have been a mom for over 3yrs now, it was this year that Hampton really got into it. I was able to sleep in, have an amazing breakfast, sit on the beach and take in the gorgeous sun, and play with my boy all day long. It was a day that made my heart so full and so thankful to be a mother. Hampton must have told me Happy Mother's Day a hundred times along with I Yove You so much mommy. It was a day that I didn't want to be left alone (except the sleeping in part :)), I wanted to share it with him and his dad and we did just that. My mom came to visit for the weekend and she also did her fare share of spoiling all of us.
I feel that I have had my share of trials in motherhood, as so many have, and it has been an ultra humbling experience for me. BUT...I have also had my heart stretched and filled to unbelievable capacities. I love being a mother so much, especially to Hampton. I have been able to find a peace over the past few months that I have been looking for and feel that there is no other place I want to be.
I am not only thankful to be a mother, but I am thankful to have a mother who taught me how to love others and be a mother. I am ever so thankful for a mother-in-law that loves me as well and that raised an amazing man that I have to privledge to be loved by.
Mother's Day is and will always be a holiday that I feel super lucky to among so many great mothers and celebrate the love we all have for our calling in this life.

Easter Weekend

2011-04-25T05:25:00.000-07:00

Our Easter weekend was far from boring! It was by far the best one we have had yet. Hampton being at such a fun age and being able to spend it with my sister and her family was really great.
On Saturday we attended a primary party with about 50+ kids and it was at such a great house with so much to do there. The two things Hampton was most interested in was the monster truck that was there, both the real and toy! He is the most UN competitive kid ever, which we are totally ok with. When they told the kids to start hunting eggs, he walked slowly gazing over all the places they could be hid, picked up 3 and said..."that's all I need Mom because I'm 3 and I only need 3 eggs. Can I go play now?" And he was just as happy with his 3 eggs as the kids were with buckets full.

After a fun and long day of playing with lots and lots of kids, we went back to my sisters house and my dad came over and we had a great time with him as well. My brother-n-law babysat all the kids and my dad took my sister and I out to dinner and that was really great for us. I swear Hampton never knew where I was the entire weekend, so he did'nt even care that I left for for a few hours.
Easter morning came around and we had a pretty simple morning planned. We got kids dressed, went to church and then went to an amazing Easter dinner with extended family on my brother-n-laws side. It was serisouly the best food we have EVER had.
More than anything, I was so greatful to spend this amazing weekend with my family. I have never seen Hampton have so much fun and play so hard. This kid was covered head to toe in dirt everyday and loved his twiner cousins so much. He kepts asking to wear their clothes and for me to start calling him twin just like Sawyer and Carter. My sister has really great loving kids and they serisouly treat Hampton more like a brother than a cousin. He loved all his easter egg hunts and the basket of fun goodies from Mom and Dad. We feel really blessed to not only feel our Saviors love on this day, but the love of great family and friends.

Weekend with Pop Pop

2011-04-25T04:52:00.000-07:00

Last weekend we went to spend it with my Dad. My Dad LOVES having his kids come stay with him more than anything. It's seriously like watching a kid at Christmas. The day we got there, he went and bought a new grill and patio furniture so he could cook for us and we could all eat outside on the patio. Hampton loves going to my dads too because of the golf cart rides, the pool, trampoline, and of course the boat. It's a real good time over there, and as always dad spoiled us pretty good. We played hard and enjoyed a day of boating with Uncle Clay, Aunt Aimee, and cousin Cooper.

Another Boy

2011-04-15T15:58:00.000-07:00

Wednesday we had our ultrasound to determine the sex of our new baby. Mike has been so anxious about this because he wanted a girl sooooo bad. He would even go so far to say things like..."if it's not a girl, we will just send it back" or "i seriously am going to be so depressed if it's another boy." Now I know that he would never really mean those things, but he and Hampton have had their hearts set. Mike has been rubbing my belly every night saying "hi daddy's little girl." It's been a little funny to watch. Anyway, when I said it's a boy before the tech could say it, I look over and Mike is a little teary and seriously had a look of-i just killed Bart the dog(family pet growing up).
As a mother, you find joy in the birth of another baby no matter what. When she said he looked perfectly healthly, I could'nt help but be excited. Sadly enough, I am the ONLY one right now. Hampton keeps telling me he does'nt want a brother, he wants his sister Collins. Yesterday he said "Mom I am so sad and so sorry we are'nt having a sister." I know this will pass and they will be thrilled in no time, in fact the dark cloud is already starting to lift around here. Mike just said in the sweetest tone that all he could imagine what it would be like to have a little girl who looked just like me and to have Hampton protect and be an example to. Since we can't always guarantee what will be, we always find joy in the things that we are given now. And if this little guy looks anything like my first born son....

what's not to be excited about!

mother/son chat-

2011-04-08T10:06:00.000-07:00

So this little cutie pie and I were out for a walk last night and talking about getting exercise and taking care of our bodies. One thing led to another and our conversation continued something like this:

So Hampton don't you love all these beautiful plants, flowers, trees, and ponds. We are so lucky to live in such a beautiful place. Do you know what planet we live on?
H-Yep, we live on earth mom.
We do live on earth and Heavenly Father loves us so much that he created this beautiful earth for us to live on. He created all these beautiful things for us to love and appreciate. Is'nt that so cool?
H-Hey Mommy, you know what? Jesus loves me so much that he holds me everyday.
I literally felt my heart sink as I agreed with him. It was so tender for me to hear Hampton tell me that Jesus holds him and he continued with this-
H-Yep mom and he sits with me while I play monster trucks, watch my shows, and he wakes my up every morning so that I can come wake up you and daddy.
I am so thankful that Jesus is always with you bud, and I hope that you know that Heavenly Father is always with you too and that you always make choices that make Them and dad and I so proud.

And just like that he said, "ok mom, lets jog so we can get our exercise." So we started jogging home and I had an extra smile on my face that night for my sweet little sunbeams understanding of the love his Heavenly Father and Jesus has for him.

our weekend

2011-04-04T17:49:00.000-07:00

Our first weekend at our new place was really fun. On Saturday my sister came over with the kids and we played all day outside and at the pool. Hampton was in absolute heaven and asked Aunt Amy if he could go home and spend the night with her. I seriously felt my heart skip a beat when he asked. We decided to hold off a week or two and he will have plenty of sleepovers in the next 6mos with his cousins. On Sunday, my dad made the trip over and we spent the day playing and exploring the beach. We rode over to Ponte Verde, which is such a beautiful beach town with some of the most goregous beach homes I have ever seen. Mike said he has never seen me more happy than when I am sitting on the beach...it's so true. It's by far my favorite place to be. Hampton actually had a really great time as well. The ocean water is'nt quite warm enough, but Hampton had a blast starting his first shell collection. We walked along the beach and he searched for shells with his dad, while I had some time to just be with my dad. I feel so blessed to be near my family for the next little bit, and it does'nt hurt that I am only 10 min from my little heaven on earth either.

Although we have just about every weekend planned out for the next month with family, I have to say that we are pretty lonely here without our summer family. We have been so lucky to be surrouned summer after summer with some great families. Last summer was definiately one for the books. Having the Reeds and the Lowes with us, certainly made the summer. We have no families with kids this year, so it will make for some lonely times at the pool and park without Hamptons best friends and his girl friend Anniston. But none the less, we will make the best of what time we have here with just the 3 of us!

hampton's first pet

2011-04-04T17:37:00.000-07:00

Mike had called me when he got to Fl to inform of his little plan for the little man. While out grocery shopping he bought and set up Hampton his first fish tank and had it ready for him to pick out his fish when we would get there. So on our first day settling into the apartment, we went straight to Pet Smart and Hampton picked out these two fish. We let him do it all on his own and it was so stinkin cute. He was so quiet and reserved about the whole process, which is SOOO unlike him. He named the orangle polka dot one Nemo and the black polka dot one Maniac(after a monster truck) and he takes such good care of them. Every morning he wakes up and runs into our room and tells me to wake up his fish are very hungry and are ready for food. He has yet to loose interest and I am just hoping that I can keep these little guys alive!!

sea world

2011-04-01T15:39:00.000-07:00

My friend Cendy has amazing connections here in Orlando. When she found out Hampton and I were coming to town, she offered to get my friend Lisa and her little girl Stella along with Hampers and I into Sea World for free. HELLOOO...of course we were in. It was so great because we didn't feel obligated to spend 8hrs there just to get our moneys worth. After about 4 hrs, the kids were tired and we felt that we could go and not force them to go beyond what they wanted. My camera ended up dying after half way through, but I got a few shots of our favorite things. We loved the dolphins, shark exhibit, penguin exhibit, and of course the Shamu show. It was really cool because on Wednesday when we went, they were releasing Tilly(the whale that attacked and killed the trainer last year) for the very first time since the attack. He was H.U.G.E. When he came out of the water, it was mind blowing the size of this animal. Of course my camera died, but you will just to take my word for it. Hampton has the time of his life and kept saying he couldn't wait to go back and show daddy all the cool things. As we were leaving Hampton waved by to my friend and said, "thank you for this special treat." It was just that, a special treat and one we will remember.

forever friends

2011-04-01T12:23:00.000-07:00

I will be the first to say that there is nothing better than a great friend to share you ups and downs with. I met these women 10 years ago when I was away at my first year of college. We all clicked immediately and spent every single weekend together for about 3 or more years. We have traveled together, watched each other get married, supported one another, and stood by each other through thick and thin (literally):)) This was my first stop when I got to FL and it was just what I needed to kick off our 6mo stay here. My girl Lori is moving to St. Louis (that day), so this was our hello Susan and good bye Lori breakfast. We have all changed so much since we first met. We have kids and life has changed us just a little, but when we get together, I feel (as do they) just like my old self. I love these girls so much and feel so blessed that they were put in my life.

life of a day dreamer

2011-03-25T21:37:00.000-07:00

When little man hits the sack, I spend hours upon hours looking at home blogs and day dreaming as.much.as.possible. I do know that if I had unlimited funds, I would definiately spend the majority of it on really cool things for my house. My current fav's include this A.M.A.Z.I.N.G. kitchen that has all the colors I love so much...green and white!

But since that kitchen is going to be waiting in space for me for many many years...I will continue to dream about these two beauties that will be part of my life someday, because I can make this happen unlike my dream kitchen!

via stories of a house

This house is our home

2011-03-20T21:42:00.000-07:00

I feel that women are so much easier to spill your heart to, because they always listen and side with you. Well, due to the fact that only my best girlfriends read this blog, I figured no better place to put some of my thoughts down.
This little house truly is our home. Mike and I have been struggling with some decisions about knowing if Boise is our permanent home, and if this is where we would like to raise our kids. Ever since we got married, Mike has always offered to move back to FL and it just hasn't been something that I have been ready for. The true driving force for these decisions is that we literally spend more time OUT of our home than IN it. After almost 2 years of talking it out, we have decided to put our home on the market. We actually had a fast as to what to do the week before, put it on the market and had an offer 2 days later. We aren't convinced that it is truly simple as that, but we do believe that it was the answer we have been looking for. I love my side of the family so much. We have been through so much heartache together over the past 6 years that has brought us really close together. I miss them everyday, but do have times where I am unsure if I can live near them again. SOOOO much has changed and I just think moving back to FL may and probably will not be the same as it was before I get married. I will always consider FL my true home. I seriously loved growing up there and the southern roots that I call mine. I would always love my children to have that a part of their life, but again still unsure.
Boise, or should I say Kuna...the place where I family began. Mike and I moved to Kuna on such a gamble and the chance to live around Ben and Mikelle. We have always loved it here and when we drive around, I never feel that it is time for us to leave this place. This is where we bought our first home, moved in, and had our first babe! We have made some really wonderful friends and most of all feel so blessed to raise our kids around the family we do have here. So as I sit and look at my almost empty house, I have been so full of emotions. I have cried everyday for the past 2 weeks (pregnancy is NOT helping), and feel completely unsure of what is the right thing to do. Every time I think about leaving this home, leaving behind Ben and Mikelle, and our friends...it immediately brings me to tears. I realize this place is truly my home. We are genuinely excited about spending the summer in FL and are using this opportunity to see if that is where we would like to continuing raising our family. If we don't feel it's a fit, then we will for sure be back and will probably make those roots...as a family of 4!! We will continue to update everyone on this journey, and hopefully my troubled heart will be at peace with all the changes we are making.

Monster Jam

2011-03-13T21:52:00.000-07:00

Hampton has loved monster trucks for over a year now, and seriously plays with them everyday. Mike has always promised him that they would go see real monster trucks some day, so the search was on for possible shows since last year. We got super lucky to find one coming here to Nampa, and the count down was on. After much anticipation, the day finally rolled around. Hampton had pre school on Friday and Mike made him a little something for show and tell at school to tell everyone about what they were going to do that night. They made a copy of their tickets and printed off some pictures of monster trucks and Hampton was super excited for show and tell that day.

After Hampton's nap it was game on! My boys got all fancied up and were off for some serious male bonding and I was off the some alone time at the mall...does it get any better!!

Mike had called me at intermission and said it was the best thing he has ever spent money on. He then told me is was seriously better than Christmas morning. I didn't know that Hampton could be any more excited than he was on Christmas morning. He said for 2hrs straight and never moved, except to cheer on his favorites. I tried to talk to Hampton on the phone and he was filled with so much excitement that he couldn't get any words out....just stutters. Nothing feels better than filling one of your kids dreams and then getting that much excitement from them in return.

When my boys got home, I had this little surprise for Hampton. I found these monster truck jam jams on clearance and it was the perfect ending to his day. We made the whole day about Monster Jam and with this kids crazy memory, I know he will never forget it. I am so thankful for such a great husband who takes the time to make memories with our son, just the two of them.

Africa

2011-03-08T11:56:00.000-08:00

Before I put Hampton down for a nap today, we were singing a song that had the word Africa in it. He looks at me and says, "mom, where is Africa?" I tell him that it is a very far away place where lions, elephants, and zebras live. He looks at me and says, "ok, well maybe next week I can put on my shark costume and go to Africa to see all the animals." I just smiled and said, sounds like a great a idea. And just like that he went to sleep, probably to dream about Africa!!

Like Father like Son...Literally

2011-02-28T19:01:00.000-08:00

Am I the only one that thinks this hilarious??? I came around the corner the other day and these two were sitting exactly the same (feet crossed and all) and each with a hand in popcorn. Hampton went through a phase where Mike couldn't do anything for him. It was mom all day 24/7, which has it's perks, but was rough at times. I would beg him, please please just let your dad help you!!!! Well he finally turned around and now it's dad non stop. I'm thinking it was his dad taking him golfing for an afternoon that turned things around. They are best buddies again, and I couldn't be happier. He informed me the other day that he is daddy's best buddy and mommas baby...I couldn't agree more.

My little fish

2011-02-28T18:46:00.000-08:00

Now I am not going to claim that this boy can swim or that he is going to make all his mommas dreams come true and join the swim team in a few years (although I do think about it often!!), but what I will say is that this boy LOVES.TO.SWIM. We have been going to the athletic club every weekend (Friday and Saturdays) and swimming and playing for hours on end. Sometimes we take friends, and sometimes its just the 3 of us having the time of our life. Being a Florida girl, I couldn't be happier about this boy loving the water. I seriously can't wait until this summer and watching him keep up with all his cousins.

2011-02-14T21:41:00.000-08:00

after 9 mos of trying and 1 miscarriage later...we are finally going to have the chance to add to our family. We have had our first Dr's appt and everything looks really great. I'm 10 weeks preggo and due the beginning of September. We are so excited and talk about it almost every night. Whenever Hampton says his night time prayers he says..."please bless my mommy and our baby to be strong". It's definitely time for us to add to our family and we are all over joyed!!

a day off

2011-02-14T21:21:00.000-08:00

Ever since last summer I designated Monday to be my official house day. I usually spend that day doing all my cleaning and then I get to spend the rest of the week not stressing out housework. Well today I woke up and looked and Mike and said, I think I am going to NOT clean to day. He said...sounds good to me, lets play. I couldn't have been more excited to have chosen to not clean today, because I would have missed out on this really cute moment with my boy. This was him coming out of the potty, pants hiked up with my jewelry on. Sometimes you just need to be with your boys, and I am so glad I did just that today.

LOVE Day 2011

2011-02-14T21:04:00.000-08:00

We celebrated Valentines Day on Friday. Hampton started the day with his Valentines party at school, which was A-Dorable. I was able to make it at the end and he was so excited to pass out his Valentines, eat cookies, and drink the bright red juice(which ended up on his cute lips). Hampton then got to have his first slumber party with his cousin Deakan. I bought the boys a heart shaped pizza and tasty sugar cookies. We had a blast and Hampton definitely will remember his special LOVE day.

Valentines

2011-02-02T21:27:00.000-08:00

Valentines Day is my Christmas in our home. I love it so much, and now I'm turning Hamtpon into a lover of LOVE DAY as well. We made Valentine craft today and just look at his face...He's in LOVE too.

2011-02-01T12:54:00.000-08:00

My sleep habits are awful right now. I find myself waking up at 5am every morning all to beg Heavenly Father to please help rest my mind and go back to sleep. Much to my disappoint it does'nt happen until about 10 min before Hampers wakes up ready to start his day. So in the mean time I find myself day dreaming out my sister and spending this summer with her on the beach. I miss her everyday and can't wait to talk for hours about all the silly things keeping me up at night.

Picnic afternoons

2011-02-01T12:46:00.000-08:00

There is a blog that I like to visit all the time. She does this project 365 where she blogs everyday with little snapshots here and there of little things happening in the day. Anyway, I have decided to do something along those lines. Hampton and I have too many great moments in a day for me to not snap some pics and write one or two lines about it.

So here it is...yesterday Hampton prepared a picnic for himself and I believe many others because he was chatting with all of them. He loves picnics right now, and if he only knew how fun they could be outside in the warm sunshine I am sure we would have them more.

My new obsession

2011-01-31T21:11:00.000-08:00

Well I am finally finding my way with my sewing machine. The first time I tried to thread the bobbin, it took me three hours, a few You tube videos, and finally a call to a sister in my ward. So I feel that I have made some serious strides. The ties are not perfect at all, but from far away they are pretty cute and Hampers loves them. He ask me every week..."Mom you have a new special tie for me for church today?" It's pretty cute and I really love making them. Mike told me it's time to find a new pattern, and learn to make something else. Baby steps I tell him!

Singing loud,or not so loud, for all to hear

2011-01-31T20:56:00.000-08:00

I love to hear this little guy sing the songs that I have sang to him every night for 3 years. When I put him to bed, he now sings them to me which is so priceless. Hampton has such a sweet spirit, and the I love the spirit that fills our home when he sings us. (It might be difficult to hear, he sings really softly).

Christmas 2010

2011-01-05T12:47:00.000-08:00

Hampton opening Diesel 10

Kalani and her CHI flatiron

Christmas Eve dinner

We had a pretty low key Christmas this year. My mom flew in for a few days and that was all we did. We stayed busy playing that week, but definitely was stress free. For many of you that may not know, Mike owns Christmas in our home. He loves Christmas more than anyone I personally know. He is the husband that I never have to ask to put up the lights or take our family to buy a tree. For the entire month of Dec, we watched a different Christmas movie before bed and about 2 nights a week we rode around and looked at lights. Not only does he loves the season so much, he gives more than any of us. This year he surprised us all with tickets to the Rockette show on the Wed before Christmas. We had to so much fun and Hampton was glued to the performance the entire time. We also did lots of last minute shopping and my Mom cooked the entire Christmas Eve dinner "southern style" and I was oh so pleased. My mom bought me a sewing machine and I have been obsessed ever since. I am not very good at all, but I love the challenge of trying to teach myself.
Now onto my favorite part about Christmas morning...Hampton. Mike and I woke up at like 3:30 and was so disappointed it wasn't time to get up yet. We ended up waking both our kids up at 8:30 because we couldn't wait any longer. Hampton was everything I hoped he would be and more. I rubbed his belly and said wake up, Santa came to see you. He flew out of his bed and my little stuttering machine couldn't get any words out, except for "Santa came to my house"!!! The only thing he wanted for Christmas was Diesel 10, Lady (both trains-expensive and hard to find I might add!!), and goggles Mater just like Deakan. I seriously think that if I would have only had those 3 things under the tree, he would have been just as happy and would not have asked for anything more. He loves those so much and sleeps with all three every night. We also did a little giving ourselves and that was really special. For the first time Hampton was able to grasp what Christmas was all about and who it was about, now lets just hope he remembers! We hope each of you had a wonderful holiday and look forward to growing closer to our Savior Jesus Christ in the wonderful New Year.

"Polar Express"

2011-01-05T12:14:00.000-08:00

Hampton has been into Thomas and other trains since he was about 18mos old. I have tried desperately to divert his attention to other things...cars, monster trucks, etc. Although he does love those other things, nothing compares to how much he truly loves Thomas. Thankfully we are out of the video phase, but he still plays with every train he owns at least 2-3times a day. Due to the happiness it gives him, I have given in and have decided to take part in the joy these trains bring to my little boy. This year was the first year we were able to actually start traditions and look forward to keeping them in the years to come. One of our traditions will be going on the Thunder Mountain Train ride with cousin Deakan. Hampton loves his cousin so much, and although they may not get along every time they are together, they still love each other more than anything. This train ride was so much fun and really got me in the spirit of Christmas. It was super cold, but Hampton seemed to be just fine and had a blast. He still talks about having a snow ball fight with Deakan while waiting for Santa. Can't wait to see what next year will bring for us-

Family Photos 2010

2011-01-05T10:52:00.000-08:00

I really loved some of our family pictures. This year I really wanted to aim for pictures that captured where we are at this paticular time of life. Kalani has been living with us since September and Mike and I wanted to make sure we were able to get some really great pics of Hampton and his big sister, and that was definiately accomplised. We had some that also did'nt turn out so great, but what can you do when you have a 3 yr old and a 15yr old who HATES taking pictures. I will take what I can get and learn to love them all. I truely feel that I have such a beautiful family, inside and out, and I love having pictures to put all over my walls for all to see and feel of their warmth.

Thanksgiving at the Parents...some good and not so good moments

2010-12-31T13:20:00.000-08:00

The best co-pilot and the one to keep them all so happy!!

Reno 911 getting us there safely No she was not caught off guard with this pic, that is
exactly how she looked the entire trip.

The real trooper...never once cried or yelled at us
the entire trip there and back.

Our roads looked like this about 1hr into the trip...
we knew we were in trouble!

Hour 3ish...large piece of ice hit our windshield
and glass literally was on me and all over the
dashboard. CRAZY!!

Fun times had by all on the farm

My sweet boy and his battle wound

No words necessary, but I will say that black friday
or my sister-n-law Shauna will ever be the same.

Oh man, what can I say about Thanksgiving that the pictures don't say for me. It was a rough week, but thankfully we had some good moments to help make it all worth it. The pictures above tell a pretty good story of how the week went down. Our 8hr drive turned into an almost 14hr drive due to severe weather conditions, my son was in his not so rare form, he and his dad slipped on the steps due to ice and Hampers ended up with a black eye were a couple of the issues we had. BUT, on a brighter note there were so good times had. Although I miss my FL family everyday, I feel so blessed to have another family to call my own to celebrate the holidays with. I love nothing more than spending holidays surrounded by family, it just helps the spirit of the season seem so much real. This could be one of our last trips to the farm, so we made sure to get some good times in while we can. The men and kids played their fair share of basketball and raquetball on the farm. The highlight of my week was black friday shopping with my sisters and watching Mike teach Hampton to play a raquetball, a sport that his dad once taught him on this very court. So I am thankful this time of year for family and memories made that draw us so much closer together. Enjoy this sweet little video-

I hope I never forget the little moments just like this one.

Thanksgiving party

2010-12-31T13:03:00.001-08:00

Hampton had a little Thanksgiving feast at his school, and parents were invited to attend the last 30 min of class to see them all dressed up in their "Indian" costumes they made and watch them eat the food they helped make for their feast. My Hampers refused to wear his costume (didn't want it to ruin his look...he is like his momma), but he was oh so cute eating his food with all his little classmates. Growing up my Mom NEVER missed one single thing from preschool to the very end of high school. She attended every little lunch, field trip, awards ceremony, play, etc and I know that I am going to be just like that. The funny part is Mike is exactly the same way. We both want to be there for every little step. He was the only dad at this little party and he was so proud to be there. I get so much joy out of watching Hampton grow and come into his own.

Hampton turns 3

2010-12-19T20:49:00.000-08:00

Hampton and his besties (Deakan was MIA for picture)

Loving his monster truck mater cake

Little nervous about meeting Chuck E Cheese for the first time

This was literally all Hampton wanted for his birthday, rasta monster trucks.

He talked about it for weeks. Needless to say he got everything he wanted.

I have so many cute things to blog about and really cute pictures to post, but I just have been feeling a little lazy in the world of blogging lately. With that being said, I am about a month behind on posting Hampers bday. Hampton turned 3 on November 20, and this was his very first party we have every thrown for him. Mike is such a kid at heart, that he planned this whole ordeal and meant his little buddy was going to have a special party. Hampton got to invite who he wanted and it was all of his very best friends. He was surroundded by so much love and could'nt have been any happier. We have been blessed with such wonderful friends and family with great kids to be such great influences and examples in his life. I hope he always stays close to these kids.
Now onto my little 3 yr old...

This may not be the best night to blog about my son, especially because he may or may not have had the best day today. Lets just say he is minus several toys in his room right now!! None the less, I love this little boy so much and feel so blessed to be a part of his life. Raising Hampton has not always been peaches n cream, but it has been more of a roller coaster ride. We have had our share of ups and downs with him, but I know that my life will always be exciting with him in it. Hampton is filled with so much passion and excitement, that he will basically light up at just about anything. He has the most infectious laugh and cheeks that I kiss about 1million times a day. His prayers melt my heart and his ever growing knowledge about life amazes me daily. Sometimes we don't know if we will make it through the day without someone calling child protective services on us, but I know this little guy was sent to us for a reason and that makes it all worth while. He may not be perfect, but the love he has for his family and his momma are beyond perfect. Happy 3rd birthday Hampton, and lets hope that 3's really aren't worse than 2's. I love you

Preschool

2010-11-17T19:51:00.000-08:00

Mike and I recently decided to put our little man in preschool. He seems to get pretty bored at home and I get pretty bored playing cars and trains all day everyday. He has also been struggling a little with his ability to share, listen, and get along with others. After much debate, I felt that this would be something really good for him. He needs a little more structure and I felt that it was best to come from someone else besides Mike and I. He goes 2 days a week from 9:30-12 and it is exceeding my expectations. He absolutely loves it and his teacher, Mrs. Walls. On Wednesdays they make a really cute craft, and on Fridays they get to bring one thing from home for show and tell (that is his favorite)!! I am really enjoying my little time alone and I think he is enjoying our time apart as well. I really hope it continues to go well...until then enjoy this cute little boy and his back pack with nothing in it :)

Halloween 2010

2010-11-17T19:17:00.000-08:00

My favorite trick or treater

The cutest shark EVER!

Our first ANNUAL Spooktacular haunted night!

I figured since we are about to celebrate Thanksgiving, I might want to post Halloween for all to see. I have been slightly unmotivated to blog lately, but my kids are just too cute to not show the world what they have been up to lately.
Halloween was perfect this year. We did so many fun things to lead up to the big event. We spent the month of October going to the pumpkin patch, made "spooktacular" haunted ginger bread houses, going to Boo at the Zoo, carving pumpkins, attending trunk or treat for our ward, and doing a little trick or treating in our neighborhood. Hampton was so excited for Halloween, and he was by far the cutest little shark I have ever seen. Experiencing things through his eyes bring me more joy than I could ever imagine. Enjoy the picture overload of our very fun Oct 2010:

Never Grow Up - Taylor Swift

2010-11-01T22:37:00.000-07:00

One thing Kalani and I have in common is our love for music. The other day she introduced this song to me and it had such an effect on me. I love this song so much and I feel like each part of it captures my life. I have the little one that I watch sleep and want to freeze time, I have the teenager that does'nt want to be seen with her parents and definitely wants to be dropped off and picked up from school with NO ONE watching, and then there is the college girl which totally reminds me of when I was dropped off by my parents and was left alone. I love music that makes you truly feel and recognize how great life can be. I sometimes wish I would have never grown up and would have never had to experience some of the heartache that I have had to bare. BUT, growing up has brought me lifes greatest blessings and that is a family of my very own that I now get to watch grow up and feel all the things that my mom use to tell me that I would come to know someday. Hope you enjoy this song as much as I did.

Pumpkin Patch

2010-10-20T20:19:00.000-07:00

The cutest men in my life

Pumpkin buddies/cousins

Can you tell how happy I am to have this man of mine home!!

Bosom train buddies

Hampton and his baby buffalo. Following in his very proud

grandparents feet!!

Last week for our first FHE with our daddy being home, we decided to spend it at Linder Farms with the other Richeson clan. Hampton was so giddy all day about going with cousin Deak and Mavers to the "punkin patch." The very first visit to Linder farms DID NOT disappoint. The kids were precious and made us parents so happy and proud. Mike and I could not get enough of how much our boy has changed since last year at this time. He would not go near anything and had a fear of everything. This year, nothing is holding him back. He is willing to try anything, and in the end seems to enjoy it. After the farm we came back to our house for hot apple cider and sugar cookies. I feel so blessed to live near family to experience not just the holidays, but to watch our children grow together.

Pumpkin Patch-Round 2

2010-10-20T20:11:00.000-07:00

We love this Pumpkin patch so much. Hampton seriously ask me if he can go almost everyday. It really is such a great time for so little money. The second time was just as wonderful as the first. We really enjoy spending time with our friends and their adorable kids. Each of us only have 1 and they are all about the same age. Hampton loves them and they play really well together-especially if my sweet boy keeps his temper/attitude in check. We feel really fortunate to know these families because the wives, husbands, and kids all get along so well. Thanks to my friend Tori for taking such great pics. I will be so sad to say goodbye to fall, but so thankful for such great memories to hold on to.

Conference Weekend

2010-10-20T19:23:00.000-07:00

Hampton and Grandma. He adores her so much,
especially because she is the very best at reading
his books to him.

Best Friends

The cutest baby ever. I want to eat

this sweet baby every time I see him.

Our Conference crafts. The kids and

I had a great time

Conference weekend was really great for me this year. I had the fortunate opportunity to host my in-laws and had a really great time. I was also able to start a few new traditions, which I really hope will continue on (sometimes I can get a little lazy and make excuses). We made some Halloween crafts, had great food, and even better company (minus my husband). I really love this time of year and Conference seem to make it even better.

Florence & The Machine - Dog Days Are Over

2010-10-08T09:01:00.000-07:00

If I was running instead of sitting on my bum, this would be the song I would probably be found listening to on my ipod over and over again. Instead, we will be found listening to it as loud as possible in our house with much anticipation of our daddy coming home tomorrow.

Traditions

2010-09-30T21:20:00.000-07:00

Tonight I had the opportunity to attend a parenting class by a wonderful woman, and for the lesson we talked about family traditions and how important they are. She said that we have daily traditions, family traditions, and holiday traditions. They are all so important because they will give your children the chance feel a part of something wonderful. As I sat and pondered this, I thought about what we do in our home that brings us happiness. Not one of us has great moves or can carry a tune, but it is the one thing that makes everyone of us happy. We play music really loud and dance really crazy and always end up laughing really hard, but what is important to me, is we all do it together (even Kalani). I hope this family always treasures one of our little traditions and knows that our home will always be a place filled with lots of joy and they always want to be within its walls.

CrASh

2010-09-30T21:01:00.000-07:00

Hampton loves to ride his scooter down the our driveway. Lately he has been trying to perfect his crashes and this particular night, I could not stop laughing. He does not lack in ability to dramatize, as I know he gets that trait honestly!!

Although it's still really warm here.......

2010-09-29T13:40:00.001-07:00

This cute little boy and his momma couldn't be more excited for the smell of fall. That's right, the decorations are out, we are eating our candy corns, reading our pumpkin books, and practicing how to ring our doorbell and saying trick or treat. I love this boy and the fact that he gets just excited about life as I do.

From Toddlers to Teenagers

2010-09-20T12:56:00.000-07:00

This is how a teenager tells you they are having fun, but
afraid for anyone to find out!!

Well, my life is very different these days...which would definitely explain my lack of blogging. We went from spending the summer in VA, the extension in LA, to home with a teenager in less than 5mos. My life is a constant change, which I have grown accustomed to and I probably would have no idea how to manage

anything normal and predictable.

Earlier this summer, we got a call from Kalani wanting to come and stay with us for a "semester" of school. Of course we said yes without a thought, and now here we are. We have a 2 1/2 yr old in one room and 15yr old in the other...and did I mention that Mike is'nt here for another 3-4 weeks??!! It's been less than a week, but I feel that I am managing and balancing it all pretty well. Kalani is pretty special to me and I feel so grateful that we get to spend some time with her and bond as a family of 4. She is a big help, and her brother is absolutely crazy about her. He calls "sister, where are you" all day long. I know that there will be some bumps along the way, which I am not nieve about, but all in all I could'nt be happier about the changes in our home. I am already thinking about the emptiness we well feel when she gets on that plane to go back to Hawaii.

Here are some pics from our weekend. We made dinner one night together and there was music, singing, dancing, pizza dough throwing, and lots of laughter.

My child

2010-08-29T19:47:00.000-07:00

Hampton and I were getting ready to head to the pool and I was waiting for him at the door. I kept yelling..."Hampton come on or we are not going to the pool. I have called for you several times now." He comes running out of my bedroom(looking just as he does in this picture) and says I commin' mom, I had to clean my ears. I seriously about wet my pants with laughter. I wish the world could just have a glimpse of what this kid is like. I don't know how to wrap up into words what he is like, but there is never a dull moment when he is around. He is so so loving, but oh so much work. He can definiately turn your worst day into your best, and your best day into your worst. I thank my Heavenly Father everyday for letting me raise this little one and thank him for the life lessons I am learning everyday. He is so special to me and I hope I never stop laughing at him or with him.

"I child of God"

2010-08-29T19:04:00.000-07:00

Hampton and I sing I am a Child of God about 10x's a day. He loves that song so much and will request it anytime something goes down and he needs to be sang to. The other day we were riding in the car and I was chatting with a friend and I kept hearing this really soft sweet voice singing. I paused the conversation to hear and asked him what he was doing. He replied "I singing I child of God to Eva(his friend) cause she is sad." Talk about feeling your heart about leap out of your chest. I told Mike at that moment, I felt like such a proud mom. Now if we could just tackle the tantrums, sharing, throwing, etc!!

Goggles

2010-08-29T18:53:00.000-07:00

Oh dear, I just crack up every time I look at these pictures. Hampton LOVES to swim. He does swim well(I think), but doesn't have true swimming skills-that will come in time. He literally has no fear and will jump from anywhere and will always try to touch the bottom, do flips, jump in backwards, or do some awesome trick(to use his words). Anyway, he informed me one day he needed goggles for all his cool tricks and for bath time. So I found him some and he didn't take them off for several days. It was the funniest thing ever because they left major indentations and fogged up really bad. He loves them and they have definitely improved his skills!!

Happy Birthday to YOU

2010-08-01T17:12:00.001-07:00

Today is Mike's birthday, and I couldn't be happier to celebrate this day with him. We went down to the beach yesterday and played, then we went and had seafood with the Reed's. Mike was able to golf yesterday, today, and he leaves in the morning to golf all week with one of his very best friends in Leesburg, VA. I would say he has had a Happy Birthday!! I know that when I have the chance to vent to a friend, I don't always take the time to talk about all the things I love about my sweetheart. Mike truly is the love of my life and I feel so blessed he chose me to be his wife. We recently celebrated our 5 year anniversary, and I have to admit Mike is like a "good wine" , he seriously gets better with time. He is such a loving husband and father. Mike always pays me really sweet compliments, gives me a great life, snuggles me every night, always kisses me hello and goodbye, gives me date nights, and so on. So with all these reasons and more, I celebrate his birthday and the life he gives us. Happy Day babe and I'm so grateful we have you!

Farewell VA, Farewell Friends

2010-07-31T04:58:00.000-07:00

Sweet baby Carson

The woman who made me stay sane everyday!

This baby might be the cutest thing ever. We all
want to eat him up every chance we get!

Well Summer #5 has come to an end. It has been by far the most work, most stress, and the most fun we have ever had. I have always felt that great friendships make life just a little sweeter. I feel that I can do anything or live anywhere as long as I am surrounded by great friends. This year has definitely been just that. We have been surrounded by old and new friends, and we have had the best time. Kate and Tiff have been such a great shoulder to lean on and I am forever blessed to have them in my life. The wives were close, the men were close, and the kids were even closer friends. I'm excited to get home, but will miss the little hands knocking on our door from sun up to sun down. We are headed to Baton Rouge for the extension, but I'm pretty sure nothing will compare to these friends and this place.

Why Not?

2010-07-22T09:03:00.000-07:00

As of lately, the conversations between the cutie in the pic and I go something like this...
S: Hampton please don't....(whatever crazy thing he is doing at the moment)
H: Why not Mom
S: Because you could get really hurt
H: Well Gosh, why not
S: Because I asked you not too, it's not safe
H: Why not Mom
S: (then I pull out the good ole saying) BECAUSE I SAID SO
H: Well what you said mom

And literally it just keeps going. I try to get creative with my answers, but it's so hard because I am trying not to bust into laughter the entire time. I wish I could say it was annoying the heck out of me, but it is so funny that I am secretly can't get enough of it.

Happy 4th

2010-07-19T17:12:00.000-07:00

Our Family celebrating the 4Th!

Waiting patiently for their treats

Enjoying snow cones on such a HOT day

The parade

My honey and I on the beach

Our 4Th of July was spectacular!! Being here in Virginia with all the rich history made the 4Th so much more real for me. I know that may sound a bid strange, but I truly felt the real spirit of the what the 4Th meant and how grateful I am for our freedom. We spent the 4Th with our dear friends right in Yorktown down on the beach. I'm not going to lie and say it was the most perfect day ever because the HEAT and HUMIDITY was a bit much. We were all so hot, but did our best to enjoy the food, the parade, the beach, and the gorgeous fireworks. We made really great memories that day filled with fun and great food!!

Scooter Cruisers

2010-07-19T12:08:00.000-07:00

These 3 have their own little scooter club. They ride their scooters everyday and have so much fun. We love it too because it's how we wear them out at night. Hampton just picked it up this summer and is getting better every week. He loves it so much, and just wants to be just like his buddy Peyton every chance he can get. Watching this boy grow up is so much fun!! Hampton is going to be in such shock when we get home and he realizes our life now is special and not always such a party, but we will continue to enjoy it until the ride ends!!

Water Country USA

2010-07-19T11:17:00.001-07:00

We live super close to a really cool water park here. It has 3 kid zones, a really fun lazy river, and some really cool slides for us adults. We have had the opportunity to go with our friends on the weekends, so the adults get to trade kids and take turns doing some rides as well. It has been the best thing for us on these super hot summer days. We usually go several times a week, and it never gets old. Hampton has become such a fish, and literally has very little fear when it comes to water. I will miss this water park more than anything when it comes time for us to leave here.

Family

2010-07-12T06:24:00.000-07:00

I got a call from my sister on Wednesday and wanted to know if I was free this weekend, because she was going to drive here with her 5 kids and my dad. Obviously I would drop any plans I had to spend the weekend with my family. They got here on Friday afternoon and we have played non stop. My heart is so happy right now and I am so grateful they would make that sacrifice and drive here to be with us. I have never seen my little boy play, laugh, or sleep so hard in his short little life. He loves these kids so much and they seriously treat him like he is their little brother. They are leaving us tomorrow, and I am trying to prepare my heart for the sadness my little one is going to feel. But for now, I am the happiest mom, sister, and daughter!!

VA Beach Aquarium

2010-06-28T11:50:00.000-07:00

Hampton LOVES LOVES LOVES to talk about sharks, fish, and airplanes right now. He is seriously growing up right before my eyes. Mike and I decided to take him to the aquarium this weekend and he loved it so much. He kept running from each exhibit and yelling at the top of his lungs..."This is so awesome guys." Mike and I were so thrilled that we kept saying can you imagine what Disney will be like when we take him. Everyday I come to understand more and more why we have children and what it is like to experience things through their eyes.

For Grandma

2010-06-28T11:41:00.000-07:00

Hampton is very lucky to have his Grandma. She makes him some of the cutest things he has. We recently received a package with new Thomas jammies, a Thomas bathing suit, some shark towels, a bag for his toys, and his new favorite towel on him here. She is so thoughtful and somehow seems to send him all his favorite things. This towel is especially special because Hampton LOVES sharks and fish right now. He also has a new obsession of airplanes as well. It seems pretty fitting due to the fact that were are surrounded by those three things here in VA. I just wanted to thank my mother-in-law for this adorable towel and always thinking of all her grandchildren and doing such sweet things for all of them.

Part 2-my 10yr reunion

2010-06-28T11:19:00.001-07:00

My 10 yr was far from disappointing. It was a weekend full of activities, laughter, and reminiscing of our days as teenagers. I was a bit nervous coming into the weekend unsure of who I would see and would it be the same with so much time passing. Well it was anything but that, we had a blast and it was as if no time has passed at all. Being at my reunion made me realize what a close group we all were. Although some of us don't stay in touch through the years, we have a really great bond. Almost all of my friends there are the same people I have gone to school with since Kindergarten. I am so glad I went and will always those people a part of my life. Thanks for all the hard work that went into the festivities.

FL-Part 1

2010-06-28T11:01:00.000-07:00

Our trip to Fl was CRAZY!! We were there for 2 weeks, and every minute of it was action packed. We flew in to Orlando to catch up with old friends and to also get my hair done by one of my very best friends. From Orlando we went to Gainesville to spend time with my mom, then off to my dads and several fun filled days of boating and my 10yr class reunion. Although Hampton was definitely not on his best behavior, slept awful, and ended up with double ear infections, we managed to have a blast with my family. Watching Hampton make memories and get to know his cousins better was priceless. He is still talking about his twiners and all his other cousins he played so hard with. I love them all so very much and am so thankful Mike works so that I can go home for those couple weeks every summer.

Happy Day

2010-06-20T16:56:00.001-07:00

We have been in Florida for the past 2 weeks to visit family and attend my 10yr class reunion...which I will post about later. I have way too many pictures to even begin to post. We got home to today, which was so perfect. Hampton asked to go home and see daddy everyday we were gone. So coming home on Father's Day was really fun and sweet for my two guys.

This picture I had done back in Boise for Mike for Father's Day. Mike and Hampton do this little "I Love you" and they sign it to each other (as in the picture) everyday. It is so sweet and cute. I had it blown up and framed and I think it was the best gift I have given yet. He was super emotional when he saw it, which is always rewarding for the gift giver!! Although we could always be better parents and do more with our children, I would say that Mike is the best father. He loves our little boy to the end of the world and back. Mike has so much love in his heart and his children and I are truly the lucky ones to be the recipient of that love. I am so grateful for him and learn so much from him and how to be a better parent.

Happy Father's Day to all the great men in my life: my sweetheart, dad, and father-in-law

BeSt FrIEndS

2010-06-02T19:41:00.000-07:00

Pictures literally say a thousand words. These guys, even sweet baby Carson, are the best of friends. It is so cute and so fun watching these kids play together. They have their moments, but get along better than most kids.

Virginia Beach

2010-06-02T19:17:00.000-07:00

We have been spending some time at the beach with Mike and Hampton LOVES it, which is a huge surprise for me. Every summer thus far, Hampton has pretty much disliked everything about sun, sand, and water. I finally feel like my little boy has a Florida in him after all. The past few times we have went to the beach, he has played for hours in the sand. Virgina Beach has this really awesome kids area and they have an actual park there that is right on the ocean. I wish I could down play how great it is and how much fun we are having, but...I can't. I always miss my home and our family there, but this job definitely has it perks.

Summer 2010

2010-06-02T14:04:00.000-07:00

These AMAZING pictures were taken about 5 miles from where we live. I am the happiest girl on earth right now. We are living in Yorktown, VA, and although I am no history buff, it is so neat to be surrounded by so much rich history. I never see my sweet hubby, but I am surviving just fine with the friends I'm surrounded by. We live on the same floor as two families that we are working with, The Reeds and The Lowe's. These women are amazing, and I am having so much fun with them. Our apartments have swinging doors and we just run back forth to each other's places. Most importantly, my son is having the time of his life. He loves the beach, the pool, and his friends.

Blogging

2010-05-23T20:15:00.000-07:00

I want to blog and catch the world up on the happenings of my life, but for the last week my blog WILL NOT let me upload pictures, and without those...well who would want to read my blog and not look at pictures?? I am not that great of a writer!!!
We have been in Virginia for 2 weeks now, and although I see my sweet husband about as much as I did before we got here, we are definiately having a GREAT time. As soon as my blog will let me show the world how beautiful it is here, I will let you in! Hampton loves being here with his buddies, but has not forgotten about those he loves so much as home.
Hope to write more soon-
Much love to all our friends and family back home-

My HaMptOn

2010-04-30T22:21:00.000-07:00

How could someone this adorable challenge me as a parent on SO many levels? The best part is...I love him more than he will ever know and will NEVER give up on him. I know he has so much life in him, that he just does'nt know how manage all his passion and excitement. Wish he would let me help him!!!

I want Money...Lots and Lots of Money!!!

2010-04-30T22:13:00.001-07:00

I want this bike more than anything right now. I think this would probably be the only stroller my Hampers would stay in!! I saw a picture in People with Tori (Spelling) and Dean each riding one. Those of you who know me, know that once I get something in my head, I usually can't get it out until I have ownership!! Well, I will have to change this once...because this awesome bike/stroller retails for $1500! Could be worse, could certainly be better! The ad read..."Put on your Mother's Day wish list." What if your husband does'nt even know Mother's Day is in T minus 8 days!

The 12 yr old bike

2010-03-28T21:52:00.001-07:00

It's no secret that I have pretty great in laws. One thing that is quite bittersweet about them, is how much they have held on to from the years of raising their children. I say bittersweet because I am the WORST at holding on to things. I am never surprised with the little things that Mike can never quite let go of himself. Needless to say, I am really grateful for the things that have been preserved by my mother-in-law for her grandchildren, and will always cherish them. Anyway, I was in complete shock once when they came for a visit once and brought the bike that belonged to Kalani when she was little. Of course Mike was bent on keeping it and couldn't wait until Hampton was big enough to ride it. We have held onto it for a couple of years and now after some serious WD40, it is ready. Although Hampton is just a few inches away from be able to pedal all the way through, he loves it and his dad loves it even more!!!