Too Much Fun

Australia Day

2012-01-26T11:17:00.000-08:00

Today is Australia Day. As you might remember, my bff sister lived there for years, and I was able to visit. I really enjoyed my time there. The people were great, the food was yum (mostly), and there is not a more beautiful place. Today I wish we could celebrate with some authentic Honeycomb Tim Tams, a chocolate covered churro, or with some of that divine best-shrimp-of-my-life I enjoyed while there. Luckily I still have a supply of Milo, and can put pineapple and a fried egg on my burger! I thought I would post a few of my favorite pics from that trip.

Technically Kyle was with me...since I was 16ish weeks pregnant on this trip. I hope to return someday, with Ryan, and bff sister since they no longer live there. Wouldn't hate watching the Australian Open live rather than staying up all night watching it online (like last night...stupid Nadal). Happy Australia Day!

Tiffi

2012-01-23T18:33:00.000-08:00

We are lucky enough to live just down the street from my Grandma...she is about the coolest Grandma around. She also happens to have an adorable, and VERY patient dog. Kyle is obsessed. He also like to take stuff away from Tiffi...caught him tonight.

1. Eyeing it. 2. Swiping it. 3. Caught. 4. Enjoying his victory

Winter Diving

2012-01-20T13:43:00.000-08:00

Its Friday! Kyle and I celebrated by gathering all our pillows into the family room and diving onto them. Funny, I can't think of anything I would rather be doing on a Friday afternoon really....and I know Kyle was quite a fan. See?

This boy LOVES his pillows. That combined with the fact he loves his haircut so much he cries when its over...makes me know he is MY son. Have a great weekend!

Simplicity

2012-01-19T18:09:00.000-08:00

I don't know why, but for some reason on the days I drive Ryan to school, it is often a time of reflection for me. Maybe it is because BYU campus holds SO many memories for me. Or maybe because it is early morning, and I always think more early in the morning. Whatever the reason, I always like it. Here are today's thoughts.

Today it just hit me. A year from now our lives will be forever different. The student era ends, and we move on. I have looked forward, and counted down to that day since...probably as long as Ryan and I have been together. We have been students our entire marriage. This is typical, I know. But today it made me think. I am constantly talking about the next phase of life. Moving away. Buying a house. Today I realized I will really miss this stage of life. It is a unique, special time. Our memories made in Provo are priceless. This is where we met, fell in love, had Kyle...and so much more.

Sure, living on a student budget gets frustrating, and the amount of homework and such is hard. And we would LOVE to take a vacation! But there is a certain simplicity to our lives that I know we might never have again. One child, a young one at that. The real intense stress and worry has not fully set in as far as parenting goes. Kyle is easy, and with 2 parents and 1 child, things are simple. Ryan loves his school and work. Simple. We teach sunbeams at church. Simple. I work 2 days a week doing something I enjoy, and at any time I can change my hours. Simple. There is no long term pressure. We aren't grown up yet. I am not saying life is a piece of cake and everything is lovely. Not at all. But I realized today that this is a special time and rather than wishing it away I need to soak it up for the next year. Because after that, real life is started, ready or not.

Chances are we will not live in Utah next year, and that is very exciting. Not because I am a Utah hater, because I am definitely not. Since moving here kicking and screaming years ago, this place has become home. I love it. We love being close to family, and things are very comfortable. We aren't trying to leave Utah, but that just seems to be how it is going to be. (though I could be totally wrong, you can't predict these these things...we have thought we were leaving before but always end up staying). I will miss Utah. And even if we were to stay here, I will miss this life. Money is hard to come by, I hate feeling so stranded, and renting gets old...but I love us. I really do. I have not been loving it lately. I have been complaining, and wishing it all away. But when it comes down to it I am content. I am grateful to be able to spend as much time with Kyle as I do, and I know I will miss this simple time more and more as life gets more complicated.

Today I am content. And with one year of school to go, I want to wrap myself up in it and snuggle in its comfort.

Some songs

2012-01-17T20:33:00.000-08:00

Caught Kyle doing some of my favorite things last week. I apologize that my gross cold inflicted singing voice is the audio.

I think we will keep him.

A weekend in the life of us.

2012-01-16T19:24:00.000-08:00

This weekend was not unlike other weekends...although it sort of started Friday and spilled over a bit to Monday. Sort of. Nothing too special happened, but it was a good one. Here's what happened.

Kels and I took advantage of an afternoon with babysitters...sometimes ya just gotta get out baby free. It was so nice being free in the middle of the day and shopping with no little man friends.

I discovered dried peas at Sunflower Market. So delicious. Perfect salty, crunchy snack. Try them. Cheap too!

We had a Netflix/Magic Bullet date night. Movie was terrible, but the smoothies and the company made up for it.

We went to lunch with Ryan's extended family and Kyle took advantage of the all you can eat part.

We took a walk down to the lake to see the not so little piggies. Kyle went crazy. The weather was beautiful. It was the high point of the weekend for sure.

I helped this girl clean out some space for her lover to move in. And by help I mean I took all the clothes she was getting rid of off her hands. Thanks for the wardrobe boost Mare. (can we discuss how excited I am for the WEDDING!)

*Not pictured: Running, Australian Open viewing, hair cutting, Ryan computing/schooling, Quilting, Sunbeam teaching, Croquet playing, Vegetarian cooking, Laundry folding, Dish washing, and lots of playing/chasing with our favorite crazy man.

Good weekend. OK back to reality.

Another month gone by

2012-01-10T13:35:00.000-08:00

I bet you thought I would give up on the whole monthly posting thing after 12 months...but why not?! Maybe eventually I will calm down, but for now Kyle is still growing, and doing new stuff every day and I would like to document that. Today he turns 13 months. This last month was filled with so many firsts and new things.

First hospital stay. SO much vomiting! But he is doing swell now.
He got his first xray and cat scan.
We found out he is NOT lactose intolerant. Blessing.
He lost a pound, then gained 2.
His hair is almost visible now.
He went up a shoe size.
He can stand unsupported for small moments, but not close to walking yet.
He can crawl even faster, didn't think that was possible.
He can point to his nose and ears when asked to.
He has so many words! He has been getting a new one each day it seems. Most recently "cheese" and "did it" have entered his vocab.
He is constantly talking, it just doesn't usually make sense.
He can roll his arms when you start singing do as I'm doing.
He claps his hands to if you're happy and you know it.
He can send a text message....or 15...sorry kels
He loves to dance
He can safely go up and down stairs
He thinks work out videos are hilarious and always applauds me at the end.
He loves cheese, chicken nuggets, and limes.
He hates his teeth brushed.
He has like 14 teeth, including molars. Maybe even more.
He bits. Go figure.
He is super active, as a little boy should be.
He loves being outside, even in the cold.
He throws things...far.
He likes to say tickle tickle while tickling his own feet, but also finds it hilarious to get other people's feet.
He has a bit of a temper...hates things taken away from him.
Pickiest eater I have ever seen.
He is definitely attached to his bottle intensely. He gets one more week then its gone cold turkey. Bleh.
He goes to bed at 6...and hardly makes it that long.
He sits by the door waving bye when he wants to go out.
He loves playing with other kids, especially older kids.
He had his second Christmas, and despite being so sick, had quite a good time.

I had to stop myself cause the list was getting too long. He is just so funny. We love watching his little personality develop more and more. He is such a good boy, I know I am spoiled. As much as I hated to see him so sick, the cuddles were amazing. No more of that, but I am happy he is healthy and hyper again. The older he gets the more fun we have being his parents. He definitely keeps us laughing.

Double Standard

2012-01-10T08:29:00.000-08:00

How come if you don't have kids and you wear sweats in public you are just "tired" or "comfy" or whatever (to a point, I am not talking just rolled outta bed nasty). Once you have kids and you do this you are suddenly "frumpy" and "have let yourself go"? I mean, I am a believer in looking nice and always getting ready regardless of your stage in life...but when I want to run out in my comfies real quick...I'd rather not be judged. Before I had kids there were days I didn't get all done up, and I felt fine about it. Whatever. See you tonight, Target. In my yoga pants.

Confessions

2012-01-04T19:40:00.000-08:00

I love fast food.

I love chocolate.

I love ice cream.

I love diet coke.

I love treats.

I love honey roasted peanuts.

I love relaxing.

I love sleep.

I especially love fries.

I love eating out.

I love delicious things.

BUT

I love feeling energetic, healthy, proud, accomplished, active, and happy EVEN MORE. I love when I look in the mirror and see something I don't love, but I think, that's ok, I am working on it, rather that sinking into a session of self loathing. I love the feeling of bettering myself, not just physically, but overall. I know these things from past experience but sometimes I forget, and my love of the previous list takes over. I am grateful when I remember that REAL happiness for me, comes hand in hand with healthy choices and goal oriented days, even if it means going without a few things and losing a bit of sleep.

Let's review..

2012-01-02T17:59:00.000-08:00

A little late...but I have enjoyed others year reviews so much I thought I would do one of my own. Bandwagoner...always.

January

We said goodbye to my beloved Monty. He was such a good car, I had a hard time saying goodbye
We enjoyed our first month of parenthood. Whew. Rough month to be honest, but totally worth it.

February

We blessed our sweet boy
We got box seats to a Jazz game
We enjoyed Jimmer-mania!

March

We thought Kyle was all grown up at 3 months
We loved intense snow storms
Ryan and I ran the Rex Lee 5k

April

We took a fun trip to Las Vegas
We celebrated the beginning of baseball season!
Ryan quit customer service(!!!) and started an engineering internship for the summer

May

Had a party for Ryan's favorite holiday! (cinco de mayo)
I celebrated my first mother's day
We planted flowers and loved doing YARD work...peace out apartments

June

We celebrated 3 years of marriage!
We went camping as much as possible
Kyle turned half a year! We celebrated half birthdays.
We loved Summer Sno
We lived at 7 Peaks
We loved Olwz games
Ryan celebrated his first father's day
We had the best summer ever

July

The Brown family came from Australia!
More camping
Michelle and I ran the Pioneer Day 10k
Kyle had his first haircut!
So much summer fun

August

Ryan turned 26!
Kyle and I went to San Diego for a wedding
We had a fun Lundgreen Family reunion
We soaked up the end up of fun summer days

September

BYU football began
Ryan's internship ended and he started working for BYU doing research as he continued his grad school

October

BYU football saturdays
Kyle and I went to Texas to see the Brown's
The Cardinals won the WORLD SERIES!!
I ran my first marathon. AHHH!!
Halloween!

November

Kyle joined the annual Thanksgiving hike to the Y
We loved Thanksgiving with the Lundgreens

December

I turned 24
Kyle turned ONE!!!
Kyle spent a night in the hospital, but made a full recovery
Ryan finished a whole year of grad school
We loved our little Christmas at home

Well we really loved 2011. We had made a goal to DO more. Have more fun. I think we definitely did. I also crossed the marathon off my list, which felt great. Ryan worked his tail off in work and school. This year holds much of the same...grad school, parenting, hair styling, growing, and enjoying our family. It is up to us to make it great.

Croquet

2012-01-02T14:12:00.000-08:00

Over the summer my dad decided we needed a little more croquet in our lives. We played often, and thought winter was no reason to stop. Especially with this crazy warm, sunny, January weather. So this morning Ryan and I headed over to their house to play. I lost. As usual. But I am definitely improving. Have you ever played? Try it! You tube can provide you with all the tutorials needed...who knew people take croquet so seriously? I prefer to just hit it as hard as possible and hope for the best:)

Ryan is weirdly good at it...

Check out that form!

A New Year

2012-01-01T15:34:00.000-08:00

Happy 2012! We partied it up last night! We went to my parents for a little pre-party...and to put Kyle to sleep there so we could go out and get the real party started. Whoop!

After Kyle was asleep, Ryan and I hit the town. And when I say town, I mean Red Robin for sweet potato fries. Dangerously delicious. After that we went to the late show at Comedy Sportz. That place really never disappoints. We always laugh. So hard. A fun evening with the lil man, followed by a hot date with the bigger man was the perfect way to bring in the new year.

This past year was big for us. Grad school...baby...marathon...a lot of firsts...also the first year we haven't moved at least once, and we actually crossed off a lot of goals! Hurray! This next year seems like it should be a calm/uneventful one, but we shall see?

Kyle loves cousins

Did it myself.

2011-12-30T20:30:00.000-08:00

I like Pinterest as much as the next person, but sometimes my "DIY" list gets too long to handle. SO many good ideas, so little time and means to actually carry them out. But when I saw this little scrabble type board it sparked an idea...an idea I knew I had to carry out...in the form of Ryan's Christmas present.

the Pinterest version

I LOVED this. I also happen to be married to a man who asks me to play scrabble with him on a daily basis. I almost always answer no...it takes too long. Anyways I knew he would love this BUT...I know Ryan...and Ryan is a man who likes to keep score. He wouldn't want to play some abstract game on a board with no "triple word score" squares to strategize around. So I had my mission. To make an actual magnetic scrabble board...scoreable (not an approved scrabble word) and all. After throwing around a few different ideas, here is the final product. Not perfect, but so fun! We have it hung in a central location in our house, so we can play everyday!

We keep the letters in a cute jar on a nearby shelf, which also has a score pad attached. We have already had a lot of fun playing our game, a few moves a day. Ryan is a big fan. Now instead of asking to play scrabble daily, he is just constantly reminding me its my turn. Love it.

How bout it?

2011-12-29T08:47:00.000-08:00

my new year in a two word list

keep laughing

run faster

feel more

talk more

work harder

save more

remember more

make goals

create daily

facebook less

watch less

camp more

thrift more

more style

creative cooking

lose more

be nicer

show love

be patient

stay ahead

sleep earlier

wake earlier

dust often

be grateful

love myself

floor time

red lips

blond hair

try zumba

worry less

here. now.

embrace motherhood

beautify hair

sew clothing

family trip

romantic getaway

temple attendance

home study

love sunbeams

compare less

fur vest

colored jeans

testimony growth

more faith

teach baby

be present

road trip

enjoy babies

be crazy

stay calm

self esteem

fly kite

more veggies

spend less

drop it

be me

ready.set.go.

sounds like a lot of abstract cliches, but its all what I am thinking. I have a more concrete list in a more private place. new year. new start. bring it 2012.

A sick little tale

2011-12-28T11:06:00.000-08:00

I guess it really all started over a month ago. We were in Idaho and Kyle started throwing up. It went on for over a week, and they told us to take him off the lactose formula. He stopped throwing up as soon as we switched to soy, so we thought it was just a lactose intolerance.

Things were fine, until about two weeks ago. The throwing up started again, but this time it was worse. They ruled out the flu for various reasons. After a few days we switched to allementum formula, it is lactose free and soy free. He continued to throw that up. He had lost a pound, and was getting worse. He just laid there most of the time, wouldn't eat, couldn't sleep, and never wanted to play. It was very sad to watch. We went to the doctor every other morning to monitor his condition. They had tried to get blood to test but he was too dehydrated to bleed. Finally, Monday morning, they decided to admit him to the hospital for dehydration and to run tests.

Watching him get the iv was the saddest thing I have ever seen. It took him hours to calm down. After even a few hours of being pumped with fluid he made big improvements. He ate more than he had eaten all week combined, and his color returned. They were all so good to us. They were able to get blood samples from him and do some other tests they needed as well. He even got his own room service menu...adorable. And the mini hospital gown? Too cute to handle. We only had to stay one night, and Kyle has been doing so much better since our return. He has yet to throw up, and has even handled the cow's milk totally fine.

After the iv

After a few hours of fluids

Thank you netflix....(we watched backyardigans until kyle fell asleep)

back shot

Feeling like a new boy before going home!

We are so grateful to have a healthy boy. We won't hear back from the tests until next week, but Kyle is doing really well. We are really trying to get him to gain weight now, so I went on a junk food shopping spree and bought everything I swore I would never let my child eat. Never say never I guess!

A Very Lundgreen Christmas

2011-12-28T10:15:00.000-08:00

This year we did Christmas our way, with very little visiting or traveling. We love family, but we also love our own little family, and we rarely spend time at home just the three of us. Kyle also ended up being sick, so this plan really worked out. We did spend a meal over at my parents, but since they live next door ish, it was easy. We didn't get to carry out all our plans because of the sickey, but we had a great time, and we were grateful Kyle had a few feeling good hours on Christmas day before his big decline. I will tell the rest in pictures.

Sick boy watching some Tim Tebow with dad on Christmas Eve

Eve present opening

Liking what he found..

Our family on the Eve

Oh Christmas Tree

Discovering the full stockings

The men

The fam

My baby

Merry Christmas to all!

What a mighty mighty good man

2011-12-18T11:03:00.000-08:00

I am not really one for PDA or online gushing about my husband, though he would deserve it. BUT. Yesterday I thought it was time we celebrated Ryan. He works so hard. Until this past September he has worked 40+ hours a week while going to school full time in a program so demanding most students don't work at all while doing it. In September he was able to start as a part time research assistant while going to school...it has been fabulous to see a bit more of him. Anyways my point is this guy works soooo hard and never complains. EVER. He just plugs through doing what needs to be done. He is also so helpful at home. He is constantly asking, what can I do for you? And is the first to jump out of bed if Kyle needs something in the middle of the night. My point is...he is one of the good guys.

So yesterday I realized...his finals were over (one of which took 3 full days to complete..not joking..and it was only two problems...bleh)...and his first year of grad school was behind him! This was big news. Ryan isn't one to act stressed, he always remains calm, but who isn't at least a little relieved when finals are over? So I informed him we were going out! I had been told the lights at the Riverwoods were fun, and it just so happens one of our fave restaurants is also in the Riverwoods. Fate I tell you.

We had a delicious and fun time. The lights were fun, the food was yum, and the company was the best around. Then we roamed Costco (one of our favorite activities) and headed home to fire up the cocoa-latte and watch Elf. Good stuff.

Love Kyle's face

We like to party.

2011-12-13T18:13:00.000-08:00

There were many reasons I looked forward to having a baby someday...and I would be lying if I said throwing a big 1st birthday party wasn't on the list...among other things like dressing them up in adorable miniature clothes...anyways. My little man turned one, stepped from babyhood to toddlerhood. It was a big day. And this family likes to celebrate, so celebrate we did!

Kyle's favorite book has always been Personal Penguin by Sandra Boynton. There is a music video that goes along with it and for as long as I can remember that song can cheer Kyle up faster than anything else. It has crazy power over him. So this, combined with the fact he has a winter birthday...the theme practically picked itself! Winter ONEderland...penguin...combination. We had a good time.

I had a little too much fun making decorations and baking a six layer tall penguin cake. Kyle quite enjoyed the cake too. He also enjoyed getting WAY too many presents from all his guests. We ate a soup and bread buffet, pb&j, jello jigglers, donut snowmen, cheese ball and crackers, and cake of course. I mixed some more adult foods along with the little guy's faves. It all went down with only one minor breakdown when Kyle was attacked by all the "helpers" while opening his presents.

I was sad I didn't get better pictures... but the party was great, and that's what matters.

Kyle enjoying a leisurely tub the morning of his big day.

favors!

Kyle with his two biggest fans

Admiring his penguin cake.

There was penguin bowling.

Kyle coloring his penguin pic.

Presents!

Cake cross section

Penguin rocker shirt of course

No hands!

Happy Boy!

After the party Kyle got a suspicious rash...headed to Instacare to find out he is allergic to Amoxicillin...a day is not complete without a little adventure right? Then we came home and let Kyle enjoy some lactose free ice cream, which he loved. It was a fun day. We loved celebrating our baby and thinking about the last year. Kyle is such a blessing, we are just obsessed. Here's to many more fun filled birthdays with our boy!

One year older, wiser too.

2011-12-12T10:17:00.000-08:00

My baby is ONE! It blows my mind. It has been the fastest, craziest, hardest, most life changing year of my life so far. But this is not about me. Let's talk about my favorite little boy.

I feel like Kyle grew up even more than usual in the last month. He is so full of personality. My favorites?

All of his talking! Hi, No, Up, Out, Oh dear, Oh wow, and What's this?..all his most common words.
He says "hi, hi, hi, hi, hi..." until whoever he is greeting acknowledges him.
He fake sneezes about ten times after any real sneeze.
He loves stairs. He can get up and down in no time at all.
He loves peaches n' cream oatmeal and granola bars.
He loves his soy milk.
He loves to play outside, even in the cold.
He loves Christmas lights.
He loves to sit and look at books, and really loves to turn the pages.
He has started hiding his face when he feels shy, then pops his head out with a big grin.
He sings along with songs, not words, just his sweet little singing voice.
He loves to be played with. Especially playing with other little kids.
He knows how to throw a good fit.
He loves suckers.
He loves playing with puzzles.
He likes to talk on the phone.
He walks a lot, but never lets go.
He likes to carry things around with him.
He loves pillows..sleeping on them, throwing himself on them...and stealing mine.
He is SO happy and smiley.

I always feel like I forget things..mostly I wish I could just capture a bit of his personality and document it. He is so sweet and funny and cute and perfect. We love him so much. I am so grateful he came to us. This first year was so much fun, and the older he gets the more fun it is! I love watching him turn into a little person. Happy birthday little man! (party details to come)

My good friend Mike was nice enough to take some pics of Kyle for his big day. I love them.

All about me

2011-12-07T21:47:00.000-08:00

You may remember my half birthday celebrations...well I love my real birthday even more. I know, you are probably thinking who is this selfish girl who lives for her own personal holiday? Well...guilty. What isn't to love about presents and a day to dedicate to all your favorite things? I mean really. I love to celebrate...so much so that I occasionally make up holidays just to have an excuse to party. So a celebration filled with everything I love? Sign me up. And don't worry- I care about others birthdays too. Everyone deserves a special day.

This year did not disappoint. Last year was great, especially cause my sister was in town. But being OVER 40 weeks pregnant discounted the fun a little. So this year was super nice. The whole week was awesome. Ryan made my favorite meals, and did something special every day. My favorite day might have been when he brought Andes mints home. To say I love those would be an understatement. Yum. Anyways, he is a good man. Duh.

My birthday being on a Sunday is always a little saddening, but we partied the whole weekend! Magical. Friday night we went to Festival of Trees and then downtown to see the lights. It was sort of a long night for a little man who is usually in bed by 6:30...but we had a good time regardless. And the little love birds cam along! Always a treat!

It was frigid but beautiful. Kyle actually liked the lights even though he was bundled to the point of immobility.

Then there was Saturday. Kyle went to play with his grandma (basically his favorite thing in the world to do) and we had the most magical date. My favorite part might have been the running errands part. We went thrifting and I found everything I wanted for my DIY list. Magical. Then we just roamed stores, the mall...anywhere. I took as long as I wanted. Loved it.

Then we headed to get some seafood! YUM. Crab and shrimp dip on hard bread, crab legs, coconut shrimp and more. Dreamy. Bring on the shellfish baby.

We ended the evening with a little comedy. Comedy Sportz never disappoints.We had so much fun. The best part was just hanging out with Ryan. Alone. These times are rare...and I treasure them. Sunday was the actual birthday and was also great. My family had a little bash complete with all my favorite foods, and I got a lot of crafting time. It also SNOWED and was cloudy most of the day. Dream come true.

While I was 23 I managed to give birth and run a marathon. How should I top that? Bring it on 24!!

Refreshment

2011-12-02T10:15:00.000-08:00

Sometimes I feel like I am 23 going on 40...or older. Don't get me wrong, I love my life. But ya know...a large portion of people my age are still living party to party going crazy...and I am in bed by 10 with a husband and a baby. Sometimes I just need to be a little crazy...as crazy as a law abiding, religious person like myself gets. So that is why occasionally Ryan and I stay up til 3am, or have random loud dance parties (love not living in an apartment complex anymore), and SOMETIMES...my ladies take me out.

I have the best friends. I know everybody probably says that, but I really do. I don't know why I was lucky enough to find these ladies but years later, we are still going strong. They love me, I love them. They are the kind of friends I know will always be there. No matter what, or how life changes...they are still the ones. When I am feeling blah, or 50 years old...a night out with them is the perfect cure. Add a little Justin Timberlake and some Winger's sticky fingers? I feel like myself in no time at all.

These lovely ladies took me out for my birthday last night and I loved it. Ambs even braved the windstorm and drove from Logan! They keep me in check. They make me laugh. They make me happy. They just get me. Always. I really feel lucky and grateful to have such a loving, supportive, and FUN group of people to call my bff's. Thanks ladies! Let the birthday celebrations begin!

Whoosh.

2011-12-01T12:31:00.000-08:00

I sometimes drop Ryan off at school so I can have the car for the day, often it is a thought provoking drive for me.

Nostalgia. Fun. Discovery. Learning. Growth. Stress. Challenge. Friends. Memories. Dreams. Scared. Love. Hate. Lost. Confused. Faith. Goals. Failure. Success. Sacrifice. Beautiful. Tiring. Festive. Spiritual. Crazy.

Just a few of the words that describe my big complicated relationship with BYU. I have never once looked back and regretted my choice to "drop out" my junior year and go for my dream. I loved every minute of hair school and I have never felt more right about anything. I still love doing hair, I love the opportunities it has given me. It just fits.

I have always intended on finishing my last 40 credits at BYU. I couldn't walk away from so much work, and money I had put into my degree. But more than that I think I just felt pressure. I felt pressure from my family. I felt pressure from anyone who asked me what I did, ans when I answered with hair, a judgmental look often followed. I felt pressure from myself. I felt not good enough unless I finished what I started.

Don't get me wrong, I have total respect for the academic world. I know how hard it is, and I understand why people need to finish. But for me, I realized that in this stage of my life...I need to be happy with the fact I lived my dream. I do hair. I love it. It is what I always wanted. I also have a little man. He needs a lot of my time and attention. My husband is in grad school. These things all add up to a sacrifice. I made my choice. I have no regrets. And yes, I still want to finish school, but maybe I will be 50 when that happens. I can not justify the expense, and the time I need to go to school right now. I have a role in my family, and right now it is to make money to support Ryan through school, and to raise Kyle.

I can't have any apologies. I will no longer answer questions about myself with "...and I have a few semesters left at BYU." I don't need to mention the BYU part of my life to feel good about myself. Right now my sacrifice is NOT finishing my degree. I fully see the other side of it and understand how finishing IS also a sacrifice. A worthy one. But as I withdrew from my class once again, I felt ok about it. BYU will be waiting for me...when I am ready. I am forever grateful for the years I spent as a full time student...but everything has a season, and school isn't in this part of my life.

I am always grateful for experiences like this to help my mind be opened to things. No matter how hard I try I can have my judgmental moments...and one experience at a time I like to think I am learning to eliminate those moments.

Thanksgiving

2011-11-27T20:31:00.000-08:00

We had a fabulous Thanksgiving! It was our year to go to Ryan's family, which was fun because I had never been there before for this blessed holiday. Last time it was their year we all went to Disneyland. While this year wasn't quite as magical, we still enjoyed good food and had some fun. We started our day early! Kyle and I went on the annual Y Hike with my dad while Ryan went and played some football.

The hike was a lot of fun. My dad and I started this tradition the first year we moved to Utah...1998? Since then we have only missed four years. 1. Random drunks were blocking the trailhead so we hiked Rock Canyon instead of picking a fight. 2. I had ACL replacement surgery a few weeks before Thanksgiving so we went to the BYU Stadium parking lot and my dad taught me to drive stick instead. 3. The year I went to Disneyland (the only year we didn't do something in its place) and 4. Last year. 40 weeks pregnant. We went on a more gentle "hike" down by Utah Lake. This tradition is important to me. I love my dad. Being the youngest child by 7 years I think I have a unique relationship with my parents. I had a lot of alone time with them, and now I still like my one on one time with Dad. I loved adding Kyle this year though. One of my huge parenting goals is to instill a love of physical activity and a love of the outdoors in my children. Ryan and I went camping and hiking every chance we had this past summer, and I am starting Kyle young with the Thanksgiving hike tradition! My dad was kind enough to do all the heavy lifting on the way up, and I carried Kyle down just so I could say I did some of the work. We had a wonderful time as always! The short but brutally steep hike makes us feel not as guilty when we enjoy the massive meal later that day.

After we all got back from our morning festivities we finished up our cooking and packed up to head to the Lundgreen's until Saturday. The food was delish and the company was even better! Not everyone loves their in-laws but I can honestly say that despite the crazy chaos that is often present, I love the family I married into. Check out the festive feather headbands Erin and I made for the place settings! I even got Kyle to leave his on through the meal:)

After the meal and a nap I did something I have never done before. I agree it is totally crazy, but the girls headed out for some Black Friday MADDNESS. We were not disappointed. We camped out at Target for a few hours, then headed to Kohl's, stopped at IHOP for some food, then to two malls...we left at 10:00 pm and returned at 6:00 am. Crazy. The deals were good, but the whole experience is what made it worth it for me. We had a lot of fun, and luckily were not trampled or pepper sprayed in the process.

The rest of the trip was spent napping, playing games, and relaxing. We came back home Saturday night, and it felt so good to be home. I love the Holidays, more this year than ever before. And I don't have the Sunday night blues so much tonight because...it is BIRTHDAY week! Woo! Sure we have to work...but we plan to party too. Bring on December!

Dear Santa,

2011-11-27T20:01:00.000-08:00

Today I discovered what I really want for Christmas. Please bring an Xbox 360 and a Kinect to go with it. I would also like the Fruit Ninja game...I am really good at it see? I have been a very good boy.

See how good I am? I would even share with my parents every once and a while.

Love, Kyle

Why is it....

2011-11-23T21:02:00.000-08:00

...that drinking full calorie Coke gives me the deepest sort of guilt, but I will chug egg nog like nobody's business? Tis' the season? Cheers! Have fabulous Thanksgiving!

Home

2011-11-17T12:57:00.000-08:00

I do hair from home. I have a salon in my house, but it doesn't have a separate entrance, meaning all my clients get a full tour of my abode before entering my salon. What does this mean? This means that I have become even MORE of a clean freak/don't make a mess nazi than before. Ask my dear Ry...it can get ugly. I hate clutter, I hate mess, and everything needs to be spotless, especially if I have clients coming. For some of this I have no apologies...I like things tidy. It makes me feel peace and cleanliness creates order and happiness....BUT...

This morning I only had one client, and she is one of my bff's moms who I have known forever, and I knew she wouldn't mind walking through a non spotless house to the salon, and I have had a lot going on so I didn't take the time to go through with my white glove. When I finished her hair I was walking her to the door and she looked in my living room and said SO endearingly "aww you can tell a one year old lives here!". It was just a little comment but it really made me think. What I saw as my mess of a house she saw as something sweet. The toys everywhere mean a happy lil guy has been able to have a blast playing. Then I looked around at the other messes. The kitchen was a disaster...because I had been working all morning on a cake for a certain lil man's pictures and dinner later for my fam. The dining area is covered in a holiday sewing project that got interrupted. All these messes meant this house is lived in.

Don't get me wrong, I still insist on order, but not every second. Some messes are ok. Life is messy. I know what you might be thinking, why not go clean rather than blog about your mess? I like to capture these moments while I can, cause I would bet within a few hours I will be back to fanatically cleaning and feeling annoyed at the messes around. So I thought I would document while I had a minute.

Someday, I will miss this mess.

*not pictured: the mountain of laundry in the bedroom....ick. Even through rose colored glasses laundry is still ick.

11 Months

2011-11-13T17:22:00.000-08:00

Say what? Yes. I am for real. We are only a month away from a BIRTHDAY in this house. I know, I can't believe it either. Kyle is getting so grown up, and as sad as it makes me to see my little baby dwindling before my eyes, we are having more fun each day. I love the new things he can do. His personality is becoming so defined and apparent. This month's faves...

His dance moves are the best. Hands down. Nothing makes us laugh more than Kyle busting a move, and luckily he does it every time there is music on...so we get a lot of laughs.
I love his new face every time he says ohhhhhh...with raised brows and his lips in the perfect o shape.Like he is shocked and appalled.
He carries his bottle around in his teeth as he crawls around. He has always done this, but recently Ryan pointed out it was funny, and I agreed.
He likes his sippy cup. So grown up.
He is eating better, as long as he is offered a large variety and new things almost daily.
He loves backyardigans and veggie tales. We limit his viewing though, don't worry.
He can nod yes and shake his head no when you ask him to, though I don't think he has their meanings down yet.
He can bah and moo. Sometimes.
He loves to wave...with both hands...to anyone. love it.
He had his first plane ride, and did so well.
He is always busy doing something.
He loves magnets on the fridge, and sometimes sits in the full splits position while he plays. Still need a pic of that one.
He got the flu for the first time, sad, sad day.
He can just about stand without holding on to something, and will walk with assistance.
He has learned to throw good quality tantrums when he doesn't get his way, I find it hilarious.
He loves when anyone is singing or dancing.
He enjoys being the center of attention.
He can make a kissy face.
He continues to love Personal Penguin. That song ends any sadness in the life of Kyle.
He loves being chased, crawled with, and tossed around. All boy.
He likes to throw things, and seems to have a pretty good arm.
He had his first Halloween! He wasn't a fan of the giraffe suit until we showed him his reflection in the mirror...he laughed and left it alone.
He talks non stop...don't know what he is saying...but he sure does have a lot to chat about.
He got his first kid's meal...from steak'n shake nonetheless.
He holds phones up to his ear correctly even when no one is there.
He thinks it is hilarious to open his mouth as wide as possible.
He cut two more teeth, but with this kid that happens so often it hardly seems worth noting.
He has the sleepiest eyes every morning, and still looks groggy for over an hour after waking up.
He makes us laugh evvvvvvvvvvvvvvery single day. I think he is the coolest.

I will leave you with a few videos, taken on the same day. I couldn't decide which I liked more, so here are both! Love this kid's zest for life.

He seems to scare himself or something in this next one for a minute, but then goes right back to singing and jammin.

And a few pics from the month...

Owning the farm at the Texas State Fair

Groggy little face

blue eyed boy

Let the countdown to the big one year bash begin!

Pretty

2011-11-09T09:36:00.000-08:00

We got some family pictures taken a while ago (July). I put them on facebook quickly so that dear sister could see them, but I never included them on here (other than the blog title). Some recent happenings in our family have made me really count my blessings, especially our blessing named Kyle. I love these pictures.

Keeping a promise

2011-11-02T11:35:00.000-07:00

Remember last year? Well I remembered that promise I made to the Holiday Gods and had a holly jolly Halloween! Just to make sure we really made up for last year we decided to go to five festive parties and have as much fun as possible.We kicked it all off at the beginning of the month at the Taylor family party in the barn. This one is my favorite...why you ask? It was catered by Tucanos and everyone leaves with a Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory candy apple. Any more questions? I also love how festive the barn is and seeing all the little kids in costume. It really kicks off the holidays and fills me with all the happiness of fall.

Next it was time for Ryan's friend's party. Unfortunately it happened on the same night as the 7th game of the Series and a BYU football game. We were bummed because we would have loved to stay and party the night away with them, but instead we were just able to stop in. Still had a good time seeing everyone though! We also went with a last minute costume change and went as Cardinals fans rather than our original idea...but we still had plenty of parties left to dress up for! Didn't take any pics aside from the one on the previous post of us cheering for the cards.

We also went to the ward party the next night. We had a lot of fun, even though my taco soup didn't win the competition :) Kyle really enjoyed exploring the cultural hall as a giraffe and we had a good time socializing.

Sunday night was the annual Lundgreen family Black and Orange Dinner! I look forward to this one every year. It is always fun to think of creative treats to take and to see all the cousins in their costumes. This year we even had our own little man to contribute to the chaos of grand kids! My friend tipped me off to some fun tutorials, and I think they turned out! The frosting on these cupcakes was so delish. Cream cheese and cinnamon. Yum. The best part of everything else I made was that I hate white chocolate so I had no temptation as it sat in my house waiting to be served. Can't say the same for Ryan though! He looks forward to those ghosts all year long.

On the actual day of Halloween we had fun getting all dressed up. We went trick or treating to family, then had a few friends over for a chill little party late that night after other festivities. My talented friends all made cute treats and we played some games. As my dad would say, a good time was had by all.

And here are a few pics of our family costumes. Thought I would soak up one of very few years I have total control over what Kyle is for Halloween.

And this my friends, is a proper Lundgreen family Halloween. I apologize again for last year. Happy holidays everyone! The next few months are full of so much fun and so many festivities! No better time of year.

Just in case you didn't hear....

2011-10-30T20:47:00.000-07:00

WE WON!!! GO CARDS!!!

I think it is all thanks to Kyle...after all they did win the first series of his life.

Did you see...

2011-10-28T06:31:00.000-07:00

...the World Series last night? If not, you missed just about the best game ever played. Mind blowing.

Here is the very end...

Bad video...but holy smokes. And this is only a tiny portion of the amazing things that happen.

GO CARDS!!!!

Tonight will be intense. I understand people not being as big of sports fans as we are in our little family...but not liking post season MLB really confuses me...it is baseball at its best.

Good luck tonight St. Louis!

Last night we went to Ryan's sister's house, where they are cheering for Texas. It is all in good fun:)

Kyle ready to watch with his rival cousins

Yesterday

2011-10-27T13:37:00.000-07:00

I blog to document life. Yesterday something big happened. Kyle and I flew home from Texas, where we had spent two fabulous weeks with my bff sister. I will blog about that trip later, for now I want to write about five amazing minutes I experienced on that flight home.

Some people feel like a mother from the minute they see their positive pregnancy test. Others feel it when they hear their baby's heartbeat, or feel its first movement. More still join the mom club the minute the baby is handed to them for the very first time. This wasn't the case for me. Don't get me wrong, I have always felt a deep love for my little Kyle, but that magical connection and amazing feeling of being a mom was never there for me. I would always hear women talk about how amazing it was and all that stuff, and I sort of felt out of the loop. Of course I love Kyle, and I would do anything for him, but something was missing for me. I couldn't fully relate when these others moms would talk about that special bond.

I was nervous for the flight yesterday just because flying alone with a little man is the sort of thing that makes me nervous. About an hour into the flight I was just staring at Kyle while he was very intently playing with my necklace on my lap. The necklace that didn't at all match my outfit, but I knew Kyle loved playing with so I wore it anyways. As I was staring at him something just flipped on in my brain. I was his mom. I thought about our journey that day of checking in (where they took my stroller..lame) and then carrying our two large bags and Kyle through the ordeal of security then all the way to our gate. I also had managed to make a bottle while holding him and all our stuff. Then I knew just how to keep him happy and entertained in the flight with the bag I specially packed full of all his favorite things. I had just finished tickling him until he could hardly breathe because he was laughing so hard. Then there I sat watching him play with the outfit I had chosen to wear solely to entertain him. I am not saying I am amazing or anything, any mom does stuff like this and much more. But for me, it all amounted to something magical. I felt like his mom. It felt amazing. I suddenly felt fulfilled and I felt that bond. The magical bond I had heard other talk about. Then all of a sudden out of nowhere, Kyle laid his head on my chest and zonked. Totally asleep cuddling with me. It was like he knew I was having some intense moment and wanted to make it even better. This euphoric feeling lasted a few more minutes while I listened to him snore on my chest. Magical.

The intensity of that feeling didn't last long. But it has made a lasting impact. After almost 10 months of pregnancy, and another 10 months of motherhood, I feel the part. I feel like his Mom. And that feeling, has changed everything for me.

Chillin' at the port waiting for our flight

10 months

2011-10-10T19:54:00.000-07:00

Wow! Double digits! My little man is getting so mature. I continue to think every phase is my all time favorite, and then the next month tops it. I have learned a lot this past month. Just when I declare my house officially baby proof, Kyle learns something new that makes me rethink everything. If you have a baby and your house is nicely decorated...I am impressed. I have had to remove everything from my end tables, coffee table, and just about everywhere else...next I might need to just remove the whole table. Kyle is an intense little guy and I love it. He keeps me on my toes, and is very patient and forgiving with me as I learn. I am always one step behind just trying to catch up with him. New tricks and faves?

He crawls so fast! He never bends his elbows though, slightly hilarious.
He can stand for one second unsupported, but mostly pulls himself up on anything possible.
He can go from her to there, taking a few steps but never letting go to his support. (he seems realy far from walking still).
He can scale his baby gate...literally holding on with his hands and feet with nothing touching the ground.
He climbs everything.
He will give "kisses" and "nuzzles" if its your lucky day.
He loves to wave to everyone coming or going.
He smacks his lips after something delicious.
He discovered jello...and loved it.
He loves cheetoe puffs (sooo my child).
He loves anything marked Gerber Graduate...I guess that company knows what they are doing.
He talks a lot, but is yet to make any sense.
He gets hurt a lot but always moves on quickly.
He loves his songs.
He bobs to music now and waves his arms.
He always crosses his ankles while sitting in his high chair.
He sleeps in now until 8:30 or 9 but still goes to bed at 7...love it.
He is not a fan of naps...at most he will take one short one a day.
He thinks peekaboo is hilarious.
He is ticklish.
He will knock things down if you say BOOM.
He likes to jump on his bed.
He loves other babies...a bit too much.
He takes toys from other children...working on that.
He went to his first BYU football game!
Just today he discovered standing up and trying to jump out of the shopping cart.
Not a fan of his car seat.
He loves to be chased.
He is just a happy little guy

He makes us laugh all the time and you can always count on him for a smile. I am grateful I get to hang out with him so much, I am also dreading when he won't be by my side all the time. But for now, I will soak in all I can having my little bff. Happy 10 months Bubs!

Sometimes...

2011-10-08T09:26:00.000-07:00

...life is exactly the way you want it. They are moments when you forget everything that stresses you out, or makes you unhappy or unsatisfied with your situation. They are the times that keep me in check. Today we treated ourselves to one of these times.

It was cold and rainy. My favorite. We slept in. Amazing.

Banana chocolate chip pancakes. YUM.

Fired up the cocomotion for the first time this season. Yay!

My two favorite people shared the whole thing with me. Perfect.

Life feels far from perfect, but I am grateful for times like this that help me remember when it comes to the things that actually matter, it sorta is perfect.

My Marathon Story {also the longest post I have ever drafted}

2011-10-03T19:54:00.000-07:00

Allow me to start at the actual beginning (I don't expect anyone to read this entire post...I assure you it will be boring for everyone but me). It was my freshman year at BYU. I had always enjoyed physical activity, but I had never really done it regularly, and I had never been particularly athletic. A few years of volleyball in high school, and a lot of hiking were about it. Well then I gained the freshman fifteen...or probably twenty...I don't really know how much but I do know it was too much. Anyways my roommate came home and said she had registered for the Rex Lee Run on campus in a few weeks. The free shirt she got was really cute. So I said to my other roommate...let's do it! I really just wanted the shirt. So we signed up for the 5k. She had run a 5k before...I had never run more than the mile they forced me to run in school once or twice a year...and I walked some of that I am sure. So there I stood at the starting line...3 miles to go. It felt like a marathon at that point in my life. We started off...I thought I was going to die, but I didn't! I ran the entire thing. That day was my turning point.

I decided I wasn't going to let myself be overweight anymore. Sure I wasn't completely obese, but I was bigger than I wanted. I hated pictures of myself, and never felt confident in my appearance. Running that 5k had felt great. I had felt accomplished and more like myself already. And so it began. Winter semester ended, I moved home for the summer, and I was determined to return a different person in the Fall. Luckily my dear roommate and friend Marianne was willing to join me (even though she looked great all the time) in this summer of madness. My dad bought me a pass to the Orem Rec Center and said he would continue paying for it as long as I used it. I think I got his money's worth. Every morning, 5 days a week, I would pick Mare up at 5 am and we would go work out. We did classes some mornings, and various things on our own the other mornings. I also added an evening class twice a week. I went to bed at 9 every night so I could get up and exercise. I followed weight watchers to help me with nutrition. I ate out once that summer. One time. (aside from one vacation). I was so determined. I missed only one morning work out. I lost 30 pounds. I felt like me. I was confident. I felt healthy. I had energy. I was happy. I had found myself again.

That next semester was wonderful. I changed my major to Exercise Science and loved all my nutrition and exercise classes. I was passionate about the power a healthy lifestyle has to change a life. It was sometime during this semester I decided I wanted to run a marathon. That was in 2007.

Fast forward to 2009. I was married, in hair school, and still loving nutrition and exercise. I had yet to find a love for running. It was torture. I would work out a lot, but never wanted to run. I remembered my marathon dreams though. So I decided I wanted to do something about it. Marianne and I signed up for the Top of Utah Half Marathon. We trained. I cheated a bit in that training...and I still hated running most of the time. Race day came and I didn't feel fully prepared...but it went alright! I was proud. I felt accomplished, and I also felt like never in a million years could I run twice that distance. Never. I had a stress fracture from that race...and I lost all running endurance I had built up. Back to square one.

Fast forward to January 2011. It was a few weeks after I had Kyle. Once again, I felt blah. I didn't feel like myself for a million reasons but the shape my body was was definitely one of them. I wanted to feel myself again. So I dug deep and found that will power I once had. Back to weight watchers. Back to working out...and once again, I signed up for the Rex Lee 5k. This time around was even harder than the first. I walked a lot, and was so sore afterwards. I had so far to go...was a marathon just a crazy out of reach idea? So I decided to do a little experiment. I would apply for the St. George Marathon. If I got in, I would do whatever it took to do it. If I didn't...I would just give up the marathon idea and move on with my life and other forms of exercise. April came. I got in.

So I started a training program I found online...it was a little intense for me. It had me running 6 miles the first week...and I couldn't even run 2. So I googled "running a marathon for dummies". I found the most magical book! It is called The Non-Runners Marathon Trainer. It included a pre training program to get up to running 3 miles, then a 16 week training program. It also included info on nutrition and training your mind. It was my bible. I loved it. I was so determined. I had given up on running too many times. This was it. It felt so great to be dedicated to something and succeeding. Once I was telling Ryan how I hate stopping to walk because it is hard to get going again...he said "why don't you just run slow enough you never need to walk?" Genius. And so I did. I didn't walk one step of all my training. Even if I jogged slower than a walking pace, I kept going.

Each week I would run farther than I had ever run before. It was a constant feeling of achievement. I learned to love my morning runs. I only had to run 4 times a week. My running days were always happier, more energetic, and more productive. I loved to run. How did this happen?

Time for the marathon. The time had come. I was so nervous. I was so sick to my stomach. I wasn't afraid of not finishing...I was more afraid of what was ahead. I knew it wasn't going to be easy, and I thought there was a good chance it would be the hardest experience of my life. We got to St. George and went to the runners expo. We met my Uncle Tom there, who ended up being my hero, but I will get to that. I went to a first timers clinic...it only made me more nervous. Then we wandered around. Tom bought me a sweet sweatshirt, I found my new favorite headband, and I sampled different energy shots...most of which were nasty. After the expo we met up with my parents and my Dad supplied delicious Olive Garden for everyone. It was so good...but I sort of felt like I was having my last meal. I hadn't expected to be so nervous...but I was freaking out. We left the condo where we were eating and Tom said he would pick me up around 4 the next morning. We went back to our room, watched a sweet BYU victory (we gave our tickets away...one of many sacrifices Ryan made so that I could do this), and then I tried to go to sleep. I was relieved when it was 3 am and I could stop trying to sleep.

I got up, had a bagel, got dressed, and headed out. Hopped on the shuttle and up we went. It was an extremely long bus ride...I couldn't believe I was going to dropped off and run back. The nerves were getting worse and worse. We got to the starting line. It felt a bit chilly...but not bad. That made me nervous. I hate running in the heat...and if it was this warm at 5 am I could only imagine how hot it would get by the time I was crossing the finish line. I drank a little, ate my banana, and sat. We had about two hours to the start. Tom was doing a good job of chilling me out...saying it was just a run. It was actually pretty fun. So many different types of people to watch, but everyone with a common goal. It was fun to see people with really low numbers who would finish first. It was fun to listen to people talk about their time goals, and their running histories. As it got closer to the start time I decided to use the bathroom just in case. It just so happened out of thousands of people I got in line right in front of my cousins! It was nice to see familiar faces. It was now 6:30. Time to ditch our jackets and get ready to go.

6:45 came and went and it didn't seem like the race had started. Then we heard an announcement that the first 2000 runners had crossed the starting line...talk about anticlimatic! I didn't even know it had started! We finally crossed the start around 7. The minute I started running all my nerves were gone. I was just excited I was finally doing it! I was running a marathon. The first 7 miles flew by without me even noticing them really. Then the hill started. I was still ok. Tom was staying with me, even though he could have been much faster. At first I didn't want him to stay with me because I felt bad, then I realized how much I needed his coaching, encouragement, and company. It was good to not feel alone. It was pretty much uphill until mile 13. I was feeling pretty good, and looking forward to seeing my family at mile 16. It was starting to get hot but there was a nice breeze making it bearable.

We were coming up on mile 16 when I saw my family. What a wonderful sight! We stopped to say hi and take a few pictures. It was so fun to see them and think about how far I had come. We were quickly on our way. Things were getting hot now. I was tired and felt like the end was nowhere in sight. I never felt an actual "wall hitting" moment...but things definitely got tough between 17 and 18 miles. Tom stayed with me. Cheering me on, and keeping me positive. I started dumping water all over myself at each aid station to try and stay cool. I tried not to think about how far I had gone, or how much was left, I just thought every step I took was one closer to my goal. It then really hit me that this was it. I was doing it. At the end of this run I will have run a marathon. It will be over. I just kept running.

We hit mile 20. Tom said only a 10k left, piece of cake. I just focused on getting to the next aid station. It was so hot, I was so tired. Tom would run ahead but never left my sight. I can't explain how much it helped having him with me. 21-23 done. 3 miles left. A 5k. Such a seemingly insignificant distance...but it seemed so far at the moment. We entered St. George and there were a lot of spectators. Their cheers were great, and Tom seemed to have more energy at this point than he did at mile 1. A kid gave me a popsicle, and there were some people with their hoses offering to spray us. I accepted gladly. So hot. I saw a sign in the distance that said "Go Julie" in huge letters. I didn't even consider it being for me...then I realized it was Ryan's parents! Such a welcome sight! I was so close. Tom told me to walk a bit so that I could run and smile for the last stretch. We were approaching the last turn. He told me to run as hard as I could and if I collapsed it was ok, he would pick me up. We turned. I saw the finish line. It still felt so far away. I always pictured being able to find this inner strength to sprint to the end...but I was spent. I ran with everything I had left though. My dad was there screaming my name a few hundred yards from the finish. This was it! I kept going. There was the rest of my family cheering with their signs! I kept going. The bam! I was done! I had crossed the finish line! I had run a marathon. 26.2 miles. I stood there while they put a medal on me. Hugged Tom. Accepted the ice cream I was being handed, and went to meet my family.

It felt so good. I had done it. The thing I had worked so hard for. I had gotten up before the sun for months. I had pushed myself to places I didn't think possible. I had endured the actual race. At the beginning of the year ago I couldn't run a 5k and I just ran a marathon! I hadn't done it alone. I prayed my way through training and even more so through that race. Without Ryan taking the morning shift with Kyle I never could have been able to do all my training. My parents and Ryan's parents took a trip to come down to support me. That family support was priceless. My sweet sisters in law sent cards, packages, and made a sign to cheer me on. My sister trained with me the weeks she was here to help power me up. And perhaps most of all, Tom stayed with me. I didn't anticipate needing him the way I did, and I don't know that he understands how much it helped and meant to me. Thank you to everyone who helped make this possible for me.

We ended the trip with Nielsen's Frozen Custard. Satin in my mouth. SO GOOD! Then we headed back to Orem. Mission accomplished.

Now its over I get asked, "will you do it again"? Yes. And to anyone out there who has the desire to do it, DO IT! If I can, I know you can. And it is all totally worth it. Am I my ideal size right now? Nope. But I am proud of myself. I worked at something hard and I did it. Do something today to make you happy with yourself. Cut your hair, work out, eat some veggies, go to bed early..be happy with you! This marathon was one of the most challenging, painful, spiritual, amazing experiences of my life...maybe even topping the list.

The day the music died

2011-09-21T10:25:00.000-07:00

I love music. Love. It has always made bad times good and great times better. I like just about everything about music. All different genres...making it, listening to it...it is all good. I have also always used music to motivate myself...I work harder when my favorite tunes are on. My workouts were only as good as my playlist. But then I started training for a marathon. Music was great for a while....but as the mileage climbed higher and the runs got longer, no playlist could keep me going the whole time.

I switched to just running in silence. There was something beautiful about this. Just me and my thoughts in the early morning before the craziness of the day. I was completely alone for a few hours every morning. I loved hitting the dead, empty streets, watching the sun come up, and listening to my breathing and shoes hit the pavement. It was my therapy. Then the mileage went even higher.

I wanted a distraction. It hit me that my dad is always carrying on about the book he is currently listening to. Listening. Brilliant! I used to love to read! College sort of killed that love...all those hours of forced reading changed reading from a pass time to a chore. I asked my dad to load me up with his most recent read. It was Hunger Games. It took about two weeks for me to finish it. Loved it. Even more than the book itself, I loved that I was "reading" again. It was so fun to get lost in a book every morning.

My dad has a rule that he listens to non fiction between every fictional book. I decided why not? My next book was a WWII story about Louis Zamperini. It was amazing. And again, I loved that books were back in my life. I was learning every morning as I ran. I have fallen in love with audio books. I don't have time to sit down and read every single day. Well, I guess it is more than I am not willing to make the time...but now I don't need to. I now listen to books while cleaning, relaxing, or any other time I have a minute to myself.

Now don't get me wrong. I love my tunes. I still jam regularly. But I am officially converted to audio books for running, driving, and such. I might never go back!

Kyle's Tricks

2011-09-13T18:00:00.000-07:00

We finally took some video of Kyle's most recent tricks. I post these for my own documentation so I can look back and watch. He was a little distracted and didn't want to fully perform...but that's how it goes. We love him. Pardon this burp, and the mosquito on his lil' head.

Motivation and satisfaction

2011-09-13T09:59:00.000-07:00

This video is my go to pick me up.

I love it.

When I first saw it it spoke right to me. I never thought of myself as creative. Then I realized this is why I love hair. Because I can create something. But then I realized creation brings me so much satisfaction in my daily life. Making dinner, creating order, crafting...they are all small forms of creation that I do each day. And that brings me happiness.

That's why I love this video.

9 months

2011-09-12T09:09:00.000-07:00

Its about that time again, monthiversary time! My little man is 9 months old now. I keep thinking each month is my favorite, but he keeps topping himself. He is SO much fun these days. Its crazy how fast time goes, but at the same time I feel like he has been in our family forever. It is hard to remember the "pre-kyle" years. I feel like he has matured quite a bit this last month. I can see him turning into a little boy more each day. Allow me to document some of my favorite things he does.

When you say "yay" he claps. No matter what. He will drop anything to get to clapping position.
He is the fastest seal crawler I have ever seen. He can cross a room in no time at all.
He is obsessed with standing. He is constantly pulling himself up to stand. Though I think walking is a bit down the road still, he is definitely interested.
He loves to click his tongue. He will always do it back if you do it first.
He smacks his lips when he likes his food, spits it out or chucks the spoon when he doesn't.
He loves gerber puffs, cherry flavor is his fave. He would eat nothing but them if we allowed it.
He is a social eater. If there is food around he wants a part of it.
He like to dance. He will start bobbing whenever a song comes on.
He moved his bed time to 7:30 and appreciates being in his own room with his own bed.
He loves fire! Campfires make him squeal with delight.
He loves to talk, yell, and do anything else with himself that produces noise.
He prefers to be down where he can move freely. No cuddles from this guy.
He is a master at getting through any barricade I set up. He is super curious and as a result is a bit destructive and mischievous. Removing outlet covers is his favorite pass time.
He continues to love Personal Penguin. The song, the book, and his penguin puppet. He loves them all more than anything else.
He likes to brush his own teeth.
He sleeps on his face, just like me:)
I describe him most often as crazy. He is just very busy all the time.

Of course we think he is the cutest baby to ever live. We also find him hilarious. He is such a happy, go with the flow, always happy to be there kind of guy. You can always count on a smile from Kyle. I don't think I deserve such a fabulous little guy to call my own, but I will take him!! We love you little man!

And so it begins...

2011-09-04T15:17:00.000-07:00

It is about that time again! BYU Football season!!! This has a SERIOUS affect (effect? never get that one right) on the Lundgreen home. Saturday's productivity ceases until January. We are busy and unavailable every weekend until January. We don't wear anything red (unless it is St. Louis Cardinal red), because we wouldn't want to be confused for other fans.We now eat, sleep, and breathe BYU football (among other NFL and college games). And yes, I am 100% totally ok with this. Yesterday was a victory. Go Cougs!

*Oh, and don't their shirts look great?!

Lately

2011-09-04T15:03:00.000-07:00

I haven't been in the mood to blog lately. Not sure why, but I never force it. Don't feel like doing it? Then I don't. I do however like to stay current because I am a total failure at journaling, so I depend on this lil' blog to remember my life. Anyways in the spirit of staying up to date I will do a little recap of recent events.

We have been spending most of our free time camping! We love the great outdoors. We also love our family. SO it really works out when we combine the two. We headed to Heber to camp, canoe, and have some fun with the Lundgreens. Kyle loved the water and I loved that they had a life jacket small enough for him. Seriously adorable. We also had fun on a "challenge course" where I was able to feel adventurous and safe all at the same time. Perfect. Here is a picture recap!

The reunion ended just in time for us to get home and celebrate Ryan's birthday! He is now 26...getting up there:) We went on a hot date and had lots of fun. see? Can't you tell how much fun we are? Happy birthday Ry! What a fabulous guy!

Now it is back to school, back to work....but the fun will continue!

California

2011-08-15T13:41:00.000-07:00

One of my favorite cousins got married last week, so Kyle and I hitched a ride to San Diego with my mom and grandma to attend. It was a short little trip but we had some fun! It was really fun to see family that I rarely see and Kyle LOVED all the extra attention and people. I also got to do the bride's hair which is always so fun! On Kyle's 8 monthiversary we headed to the beach. He was a definite fan of the sand and loved anticipating the waves getting his toes. He was also a huge fan of my cousins, who gave him endless playing and attention.

enjoying his long car ride

loooving some quality cousin time

mmmm sand

perhaps the prettiest temple ever

reception time!

no trip through vegas would be complete without a Steak n' Shake stop!

I didn't get picture of the actual happy couple I went there for, they were a bit busy. I also didn't get pictures of any other family we stayed with or visited, but it was great to see them all! And I couldn't have asked for a better behaved lil' guy. He was definitely a champ.

8 months

2011-08-15T09:59:00.000-07:00

It has happened again. Kyle is yet another month older. They keep flying by faster and faster! A lot happened this last month in the life of Kyle. He learned a lot of new tricks and had a growth spurt! Here are a few of my favorite things.

He is officially mobile! He can crawl anywhere and is getting faster by the day. He has only crawled a few paces the "right way" but he has this seal like move down! He loves his new found freedom.
He can take out the outlet covers. Ryan thinks its a sign of early engineering skills, I think its a sign of trouble ahead.
He is learning to clap at the appropriate times rather than just randomly.
He has EIGHT teeth! Yes. 8. Holy smokes.
He graduated from his little whale tub to the real tub. Loves it.
He says mamamama and babababa and a few other new "words".
He loves to eat! Finally. He eats fast and enjoys chewing real things rather than baby food.
He loves people more and more. The more people around him the happier he is.
He bites. Not in a mean spirited sort of way though.
He went on his longest road trip ever to San Diego and did great!
He went to the beach for the first time.
He kicks his legs so fast, so hard, and so constantly. It is hilarious. He is full of energy, don't try holding him, he won't like it.
He is very ticklish.
He loves the personal penguin song. Literally LOVES. He can be as sad as can be then you turn on that song and immediate dancing, waving, clapping, and giggling follow. Every time.
He loves dogs.
He now does a yoga plank and the lifts one leg into the air and hold it...looks like a good work out/calf stretch.
He uses his feet to play with his toys. He also likes to occasionally hold his bottle with his feet so his hands are free to play with things.
He will give you a little nose nuzzle if you are lucky.
He gets an attitude if you take a way a toy, or rest your arm on his car seat. He likes his space I guess.
Sometimes in the morning Ryan will bring him into our bed and he will fall back to sleep for a while. Then I will feel two little hands crawling on top of me and when I open my eyes there is a little face about an inch away from mine grinning as big as possible. I am convinced it is the best way in the world to be woken up.
He loves peekaboo.
He answers to his name more.
He is a lightweight, and I love it.
He now gets up and peers out of his crib grinning and talking while waiting to be taken out.
He is still a very happy boy almost all the time.

Kyle has seriously transformed this past month. He seems to much older and more mature than even a month ago. He is growing up fast but its ok because every new stage becomes my favorite. I love having a little friend with me all the time. Ryan and I always discuss how much K has changed our lives, and how we would never want to go back. He is our favorite little guy and we love him crazy amounts. I am excited to continue watching him grow and learn. This whole parenting thing definitely keeps you on your toes. Just as you start to get comfortable things change and its a whole new game. Its healthy I think. Keeps you learning, growing, and expanding your comfort zone. Here's to whatever the next month might bring!

It is ALL good!

2011-08-08T09:48:00.000-07:00

I have always been a fall/winter person. I endure the summer to await my reward of cold, snowy days. This year however, summer has been FANTASTIC! I think it is the perfect combination of mild temps+Ryan home most evenings+me not working as much+Kyle's existence +not being pregnant like last year+making the most of the early sunrise and late sunset= the BEST summer ever. Seriously. We have worked hard but more importantly played hard! I feel like we have definitely made the most of this season. Allow me to list a few of my new found loves about summer time.

Again, early sunrise. It allows early running. And I love it.
Late sunsets. The days feel so much longer giving more time for fun!
Not having to bundle Kyle in order to go outside. He doesn't even need pants half the time! (total WT maybe?)
Being able to GO OUTSIDE! Winter was long with a newborn, that's all.
Not having to worry about getting sick as much.
Swimming. I love swimming.
Getting a small tan. Most would laugh..I know I am still white, but believe it or not there is some color there!
Enjoying the green farm we live on. SO pretty.
Camping. We finally have weekends free to go camping! It has been awesome.
Baseball season. Always a joy.
Feeling active. We get out and do.
Delicious light meals. Fruits and veggies are so great this time of year.
Outdoor naps.
Outdoor walks.
Outdoors!

See? The list could go on and on. I even caught myself feeling depressed that it is August and summer is coming to a close. This has seriously never happened. As I was feeling all sad that these wonderful months are winding down...I started to remember what is just around the corner.

Jeans, sweaters, jackets, and scarves!
FOOTBALL SEASON! BYU of course...and I am actually quite the NFL fan these days. SO excited.
Halloween! And all the other holidays that follow.
No more sweating. A big perk.
Beautiful leaves and cool breezes.
Harvest time.
More "firsts" for Kyle as this will be his first Fall.
October conference.
Cuddling weather.
Busting out the cocomotion!
Energy bill going down.
The first snow.

See? I have decided I am now in the best situation possible. I love summer now. This means I can officially be happy and embrace the weather year round. So if you find a certain season makes you grumpy, try to fill it with things you love and make the most of it. It has changed my whole life really:)

Lazy Days

2011-08-03T07:09:00.000-07:00

Yesterday felt busy. I have a million things to do before this week comes to an end. Time out. Priorities. Instead of stressing the night away we ate dinner...and then decided to do nothing but lay and play with K on a blanket in our backyard. It was so nice to enjoy a worry free summer evening with our little family. These are the moments I live for. Pardon that cliche. Did you ever consider certain things being cliche because they are so constantly true?

Such a yummy little boy.

Oh. After bed time Ryan challenged me to a little Ticket to Ride. Saying I wasted him would be an understatement...but we will go with that. I wasted him. This NEVER happens. Had to document. Winning score? 223 baby.

Think about it

2011-07-31T21:27:00.000-07:00

This post is not meant to be offensive or a tangent. I just want to share a bit of my experience just in case there is anyone out there maybe struggling with the same thing. It is not something insanely serious or life threatening. It is on the issue of judging others, which is a huge topic with many things I could carry on about, but more specifically, I would like to discuss breastfeeding. Random huh? Well, hear me out.

Everyone wants to be the very best parent they can be. Having a baby is the most overwhelming thing I have ever gone through. Pregnancy was hard, but it was nothing compared to what the 7 months since have been, and I know I have no clue how hard the things are yet to come. While I was pregnant I was always full of anxiety. Was the baby ok? Was this pain normal? Why hasn't he moved lately? Can I survive giving birth? What if there are problems in the birth? Birth defects? Abnormalities? But the biggest worry that haunted me? Will I be a good mom? Or even an adequate mom?

Naturally I read endless books on pregnancy and birth. I wanted to do my best to be educated and prepared going into this new adventure. So after much research and study, I decided I would most definitely breastfeed my baby, despite any previous hesitations I had had (my entire life). Yes, I would do it. So I began to study up on that. How to do it, the challenges I might face, and the gear that might help me be successful. I didn't even bother learning about formula or bottles, because I only wanted the BEST for my baby, and the BEST was breast milk.

Fast forward to December 10th, about 9:30 am. Kyle had just been placed in my arms. It is such a blur to me now. So overwhelming, happy, scary, and beautiful. He was healthy and safe. He was mine. I can honestly say at that moment the love was instant. He was perfect. He was the most wonderful creature I had ever seen and I loved him immediately. The first attempt at breastfeeding was a total failure, but I had read that was typical, and even the nurse assured me it was normal. So I had no worries as I sent him off with Ryan to get cleaned up.

The next day it was brought to my attention Kyle had low blood sugar and needed food. Since I had nothing to provide, formula was the answer. I immediately started to fret. My books said that even a pacifier could ruin your chances at breastfeeding and giving them a BOTTLE? Basically breastfeeding suicide. But what was I to do? An already tiny (6lbs. 3oz. and dropping) lil' guy needed food. He needed it. So of course I gave the ok for the bottle. This trend continued the entire time we were at the hospital. I kept trying to breastfeed but with no supply, and Kyle's struggles both anatomically and with his blood sugar, we had a lot working against us.

Time to go home. Still having very bad luck. Even pumping wasn't proving to be successful. Aside from that I was fighting through the hardest time of my life. I was so tired, so emotional, so overwhelmed, under so much pressure, and having a major identity crisis. How was I supposed to feel? All I heard and read was the breastfeeding was the only way to have a healthy baby. It was how the baby bonds with you. It gave them what they needed. The list goes on and on. So here I sit. Failing as a mother when I had only been at it for 3 days. Where was the JOY and LOVE and EUPHORIA new moms always talk about? I felt stressed and empty.

I had a lot of pressure from my own family as well. Luckily Ryan was a gem, and always supportive of my struggle. I had endless amounts of people telling me I just needed to stick with it, try harder, try longer, it will work out. It is what nature intended and is what was best for Kyle so of course it would work if I just kept trying. I am sure these people meant well, but all I got from it was pressure. I will never forget one night around 3 am I was up with Kyle watching some news program. The topic? The advantages of breastfeeding. Oh boy. Was there no break from this pressure?

Three weeks after Kyle was born I gave up the fight. I declared Kyle a formula baby. It was the happiest I had felt since he was born. I told myself it was ok. He wouldn't grow up an obese adult, he would still have a bond with me, we would find a way to afford the formula he needed. I had given MY best shot. Maybe someone else could have done more. But for me, I knew it was my best. I found peace with that. So what gets to me now?

The looks, and the tone I get from people. Oh, you bottle feed? Did you even TRY nursing? Women who bottle feed are so selfish. It was hard but you just have to try harder. Honestly I could smack them all! They have no idea the hell I went through fighting myself over failing. They don't know how much I struggled with having to accept defeat. They don't know the hours I spent stressing and worrying over the fact that I couldn't give my baby the best. They don't understand how I look at breastfeeding mothers and still feel guilt for not doing it myself.

SO to some who have clearly displayed their disapproval I have explained my story. They usually respond with something like, yeah well at least you tried. Its different. Some women don't even try. And you know what I think? SO WHAT! It is their body, their life, their baby and THEIR CHOICE! You have no idea of their circumstances. So please. I beg of you. Before you carry on about the advantages of breastfeeding and rub it in that its the only way to go, consider what that person might be going through. If you breastfed your baby then great! But don't make me feel like a negligent mother because I didn't. This applies to about anything in life. Just take the time to stop and think before you judge. Worry about yourself. Do what is best for you, and allow others to do the same.

A final recap

2011-07-28T16:56:00.000-07:00

Ok I think this is the last of this marathon posting session. The beginning of the update posts starts here if you want to go in order. It has taken forever and I know it feels a bit overkill? I considered just doing the highlights all in one post, but as I mentioned, this is the main way I journal and its important to me. I couldn't really care less if anyone else reads any of it. I just LOVE having it to look back at. Anyways. I think I covered most of the bigger events, so now I just wanted to toss in all the extras. What else happened in the last few weeks?

Kyle and Michelle bonded quickly.

Kyle loooved all the attention from cousins

Myzie got her ears pierced!

Kyle graduated from this perfect yoga plank into actually crawling(his own variation for now) across the room!

We ran through sprinklers in my parents amazing front yard

We did LOTS of hair. Including COLORING Michelle's hair! Something she had never done before (excluding a few red highlights almost 10 years ago).

We saw many rainbows. Both actual and metaphorical. Cracking myself up.

Wii danced!

We discovered Kyle likes paper above any other toy or form of entertainment.

We spent lots of time on the swing.

We played croquet. I believe Ryan isn't in this pic because he was winning by so much.

We said goodbye again. But it was much better this time, knowing we can easily call and text, we will be living the same day at the same time, and that seeing each other doesn't require a passport and a few thousand dollars. Rather than dwell on how hard it is to say goodbye, I try to be thankful that the only reason it is so hard is because I am blessed with such an amazingly close relationship with such an amazing sister. In case there was any question, I plan to head to Texas asap. We love you Browns! Thanks for such a great time!

Let down your hair!

2011-07-28T16:16:00.000-07:00

Hailey turned 4 while they were here! I LOVED being able to help with the party. She chose a Tangled theme and super mom Michelle totally delivered. I was in awe of her party throwing abilities. It was all so much fun. From getting the girls "princess hair" ready to doing the cake and decorating and then actually living it up at the party it was all great! All the cousins came along with other family too!

The birthday girl awaiting her guests

Sweet tower cake!

Orange boats on jello water

Playing a bit of pass the parcel

Hoot Hoot

2011-07-28T15:58:00.000-07:00

We love baseball. Plain and simple. So we are pretty devoted Orem Owlz fans as you know. It was so fun to have some family join us for a game. Is there a better way to welcome people back to the USA then with a little all American baseball? I think not. And to sweeten the deal there were fabulous fireworks after! Win win. By the way Kyle is a HUGE fan of fireworks. He gets almost hypnotized by them. Love it.

K always has a good time

Dad teaching Kam all about ball

Myz and her sweet souvenir ice cream hat cup

Waiting for the fireworks!

Temple Square

2011-07-28T15:43:00.000-07:00

You know what else is nice about visitors? It gets you out to do local stuff that you might never do otherwise. Temple Square for example. SO beautiful and fun, but we would never have gone without a reason. It reminded me of how many fun things there are to do around Utah. People who say Utah is lame must simply have lame personalities, cause there is PLENTY to do! (a major league baseball team REALLY wouldn't hurt though).

We headed up just to walk around and see what there is to see. It was quite toasty, but fun all the same. Oh an all of these pics, meaning every pic from the entire time they were here, are from Michelle's camera. Erik and Whit came too, but I didn't get any pics of them. But have it be known they were there too!

The moment I've been waiting for

2011-07-28T15:29:00.000-07:00

I love HAIR remember? Well...Kyle might look bald to you, but he had some serious wispy hairs in need to trimming. So I declared it BABY"S FIRST HAIRCUT time! I have waited so long! And yes, he really did NEED it. I have others who agreed and supported. So it wasn't just me being over eager. Nothing bugs me more than nasty wispy hairs that just need to go. And what is the best news? Kyle totally loved it. I think he found the clippers soothing. Total success.

This pic is my fave. He looks so concerned. I assured him I was a trained professional.

On your mark!

2011-07-28T15:17:00.000-07:00

I guess I am far enough into my training to come public. I am training to run the St. George marathon in October! I am scared to death but SUPER excited too. Anyways, I obviously spend a lot of time running and this couldn't change just because my dear sister was here. The first week they were here I ran solo as usual. Then something magical happened! My sister, who had also been running but not with any particular goal, decided to join me! For two glorious weeks I had a running partner and it was great! We decided it would be fun to try and do a race while she was in town, and it worked out perfectly. We ran the Pioneer Classic 10k in Provo. I think we both went in a bit over confident since we had run much longer distances that week alone, but even with the hill they refer to as "Goliath" (seriously I wanted to die...I have never seen a hill that long and steep) we came in exactly at our goal time! It was so fun to be able to do something like that together. These are the kinds of things we have always talked about wanting to do together and it was even better than I had imagined. We also had a fabulous crowd at the finish line. Simply fabulous.

Before

During.

After!

Better with Bruce

2011-07-28T15:06:00.000-07:00

So I think I have mentioned my uncle Bruce before. Afterall, he is the root of my url for this blog. Anyways in case you don't know, allow me to explain. Bruce is my uncle, my dad's only brother. His real name is Bryce, but it has been years since I have ever called him that. To me he will always be Bruce. Anyhow, Bruce is special to my family. When we live in St. Louis he came almost every year for Christmas. His trips were highly anticipated by all of us. Whenever we made our trips to Utah, he was who we stayed with. When we eventually moved to Utah, I lived with him for over a year. SO he was a HUGE part of my childhood. He continues to play a big role in my life. I still remember thinking during his St. Louis stays, "everything is better with Bruce." He is way more than just an uncle. I could carry on and on about this relationship, but I will refrain for now. Anyways. He obviously wanted to spend time with the Browns while they were here and luckily they all allowed K and I to tag along! We had lunch with him THREE times! How fabulous! I think the most memorable was when we went up the canyon though. So that is the one I will document.

He took us up to this little known gem in Provo Canyon to have a picnic. The food was great. The company was even better. Everyone had a great time.

Aaron is a HUGE fan of Bruce.

Camp Rock!

2011-07-28T14:47:00.000-07:00

I am about the biggest High School Musical fan around, so imagine how I felt when we declared a GNO and went to see Camp Rock the Musical at the Scera and I realized I had been missing out on another Disney Channel Original gem!? Even better than watching the show was watching the girls. At one point Hailey jump off my lap, ripped off her jacket and just started dancing like crazy. It was so so much fun! We had about an hour on the grass before the show started...so of course we filled it by snacking, playing, and taking pics.

A walk in the park

2011-07-28T12:00:00.000-07:00

I am not pretending that all these small events are necessarily worth reading for anyone who reads this. But this blog is basically my journal, and for me, even a day at the park with my sister and her fam is noteworthy enough for me to remember and blog about. So I will. Hailey got a bike for her birthday, and Myah got skates...so a day in the park was definitely needed. Kam and Kyle also had a great time swinging! It was so fun to just chill and watch the kids play, and of course take some pictures!

Days like this were extra fun I thought. Of course I miss Michelle for the big days and events, but what I really love? Just chatting. Being there for everyday events, like going to the park. Good old quality time is all I want.

Taking a dip

2011-07-28T11:41:00.000-07:00

As you have probably gathered by now my lil' fam LOVES the pool. So we had to go swimming while the Browns were here. We decided to go to the Scera pool...mostly because of its amazing proximity to Summer Sno, another must do. We had a blast! Myah couldn't get enough of the slides, Aaron loved the fountains, and Kams, Hailey, Kyle and I enjoyed wading around and tempting the tipping flower fountain. Then we headed to a picnic and to grab some snow cones. Just about the ideal summer night.

This is Kyle's personal boat he enjoys floating around in. It is actually hilarious to watch. Love him.

The ladies after a trip down the slide.

Aaron livin it up!

Thanksgiving Point

2011-07-28T10:57:00.000-07:00

One evening we all (minus the parentals) went to Thanksgiving Point's farmland area. I had never been before and it was actually quite entertaining. The kids took pony rides (even Kyle!) and we went on a little hay ride. We also enjoyed all the lil' farm animals.

Cousins minus the three little boys.

Zane and Kyle

First pony ride! He was QUITE pleased about the whole thing until the pony started moving...then he got nervous and I rescued him.

Same pic different backgrounds essentially? The one below is capturing the hay ride...

Whit and Zane on the ride.

Christmas in July {camping}

2011-07-28T10:21:00.000-07:00

So this post marks the beginning of the posts documenting the Brown's stay. We had SO much fun and I definitely want to journal it all and rather then one long marathon post I think I would rather break it up just for organizational purposes. They were here for 3 weeks and we tried to make the most of every day. I will start with the family camping trip. I don't remember the last time my entire family went camping together. I don't think it has happened since we moved from St. Louis. We were LONG over due. We went up Spanish Fork canyon and just stayed one night. It was so great to have everyone there. When a chunk of your family lives on the other side of the world you learn to cherish these rare times of togetherness. So great to have the Aussies back! So what did we do? Let me show you.

Hailey and I snuggled a bit

Kyle enjoyed every second as usual

We enjoyed Ryan taking the day off to be able to come along!

We had fun watching my parents be with ALL their grand kids at once.

We celebrated my mom's birthday! If you haven't tried the cooler with dry ice to enable delicious ice cream while camping...you should.

Ryan found a way to chill our melon before dinner. Yum.

Rhett liked the river

We cheated and grilled our hot dogs. Yum again.

We laughed A LOT.

Aaron was in heaven with the water spout.

Girl cousin bonding.

Hiking happened.

Holly was basically a professional roaster. Best mallows I have ever seen.

Erik whipped up an AMAZING dutch over breakfast.

We soaked up every second of having THEM here!

And as Dad would say, a good time was had by all.

7 months

2011-07-13T20:13:00.000-07:00

Kyle had his 7 monthiversary last week. Blows my mind really. I know people always say "they grow up fast" but it really is true. Since I am with him every day I don't really notice until I think back or look at old pictures how big he is getting. It is really fun hitting all the milestones and watching him learn to do more and more. Very exciting really. I keep thinking he is at my most favorite stage, and then he tops himself. So, what happened this month?

He sealed the deal on hating pacifiers. He wants nothing to do with them. Ever.
He officially cut his third tooth...and 6 more are bulging and visible.
He got his first sickness, which was only a mild runny nose.
His hair is pretty visible in person now.
He mastered plank position.
He gets up on his knees and rocks likes mad.
He can crawl backwards.
He is SO active. No snuggling allowed unless he is already asleep. He likes to be free to move about.
He is obsessed with toys and other things to play with. He always has to be chewing or otherwise exploring at all times.
He had his first friend sleep over (cousin Jack).
He LOVES 7 peaks. Can't kick and splash enough.
He is a champ at camping. Sleeps in the tent perfectly.
He got his first bug bites.
His feet finally grew big enough to ditch the 0-3 month shoes.
He thinks real and pretend sneezes are hilarious.
He loves to be tickled.
He looooves his daddy. Sometimes life isn't fair.
He officially met all his cousins, and is a HUGE fan of the attention they bring.
He says dada, though has no idea that it means something.
He insists on holding his own bottle.
He loves squash.
He is so very pleasant. Always has a smile or giggle, anytime, anywhere.
He doesn't like napping much, but is still a champ at night so no complaints.
He no longer enjoys his car seat, again, he needs to be free.
He likes to jump and climb when being held.
I can no longer wear dangling earrings. Learned the hard way.
His eyes are some of the bluest around.
He loves big beds and sleeping on his side and tummy.
He likes being tossed in the air.
He loves music.
He is all business when playing. So focused, no smiles, just a busy little man.
He gives a courtesy half smile to most strangers.

Happy 3 years...a little late

2011-07-13T19:50:00.000-07:00

I was going to post this for our anniversary just for fun but couldn't figure out how. I got some help from my talented sister in law Kate, who actually is responsible for making this video. As much as I love looking at wedding pictures, there is something about watching actual footage that always makes me happy. This is just the cheesy couple portion that I love. So why not? Over three years later I still love everything about that fabulous wedding day. No regrets, although it is funny how fast weddings look dated. Such a great day.

4th of July

2011-07-11T09:17:00.000-07:00

No creativity in that title eh? Well we had a fabulous 4th this year. It is definitely one of my favorite holidays. We started out the weekend with a trip to 7 Peaks, then filled the rest with fireworks, balloon lift offs (HAD to see the Vader balloon cause we are nerds like that), a Taylor family breakfast, a Lundgreen family bbq, and topped it off with a trip to the air port to pick up my favorite lil' Aussie family! Couldn't have asked for a better time! So why not just show you the details through pictures?

waiting for fireworks

still waiting (Chris and Mare joined us.)

Very early in the morning at the launch.

Kyle was impressed.

Ryan facing Vader.

K with cousin Brynn at the breakfast.

Patriotic baby.

The Lundgreen babies in their plaid.

A few Lundgreens awaiting the bbq.

Traditional cake.

K all ready to go to the airport. (Their last name is Brown btw).

Cross word puzzled kept us all entertained.

Sadly the pics of when they actually got here are not on my camera, so I will include them in another post since I know you are dying to see the sweet banner I made. It was a fantastic holiday, hope yours was too!

Gone Coconuts

2011-06-27T08:41:00.000-07:00

Last night we had a coconut inspired meal. It was sooo delish, so easy AND pretty healthy so I thought I would share the recipes.

Coconut shrimp is about as good as it gets for me, but it is usually soooo high in fat and calories. This one? Not so! Only 1 point per shrimp if you are thinking Weight Watchers.

Ingredients:
1/4 cup Fiber One Original Bran Cereal
1/3 cup shredded sweetened coconut (next time I think I will add a little extra)
3 tbsp. panko breadcrumbs
1/4 tsp. chili powder
1/8 tsp. garlic powder
1/8 tsp. black pepper
Dash salt
12 oz. (20) raw shrimp, peeled, tails removed, deveined
3 tbsp. fat free liquid egg substitute

Directions:
1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees
2. Place cereal in seal-able plastic bag and crush. Add coconut, breadcrumbs, chili powder, garlic powder, pepper, and salt. Shake to mix. Transfer to large plate and set aside.
3. Spray large baking sheet with nonstick cooking spray. Pat shrimp with paper towel to ensure they are completely dry.
4. Combine shrimp with egg in a bowl and toss lightly to coat. One at a time, shake excess egg from shrimp and transfer to the coconut-crumb mixture and place evenly on baking sheet.
5. Bake until outsides are crispy and insides are cooked through, 10-12 minutes. Yum.

We ate it with key lime mango salsa, but I think next time I will make a sweeter sauce...perhaps orange marmalade based?

Coconut Rice
This was so easy, I just tossed everything in the rice cooker and called it good.

2 c. white or Jasmine rice
1 can coconut milk
2 c. water
1 tsp. Kosher salt
Splash of white vinegar (optional, but it helps with the texture)
2-3 tsp. white sugar
Handful of chopped green onions, plus chopped green onion tops for garnish (we’re using the whole animal here…)
Black pepper to taste

Combine rice, coconut milk, water, salt, vinegar, and sugar in a saucepan and bring to a boil Turn heat to low and cover for 20 minutes or until most of the liquid is absorbed. Allow to stand 5 minutes. Add green onions, black pepper (if desired), and additional salt if necessary.

We actually combined the shrimp and the rice together with some fresh limes and it was divine really. Super quick and easy! Give it a go!

Give a hoot!

2011-06-26T17:00:00.000-07:00

This summer has recently turned magical. Allow me to explain why at the risk of sounding whiny. You see for the past several summers things have interfered with my summer fun (my own fault I recognize). For the past 3 ish years Ryan has worked at a job that has required him to work most nights until 10:00, Monday through Friday in addition to whatever school load he was carrying. As for me, I either went to school or worked at the salon Tuesday through Saturday. So the problem? Sunday was the only day or night that we were both home (and even that was only when I didn't work on Sunday). SO what am I getting at with this pathetic sob story? Well. This summer is different. Ryan got a new job, and just finished his only summer class, and I create my own school and work schedule essentially meaning that we have at least a few evenings together AND Saturdays! This opens up so many Summer fun opportunities. Weekend camp outs, evening swims, and so much more are now possible and we are trying to take full advantage since we know it will not always be this way. Now don't get me wrong, I am fully aware many people have a far more strenuous schedule than we had, but I just need to say that because of what we were used to, all this time we now have together seems like a dream come true. So we are thinking Summer 2011 might just be our favorite yet!

So an incredibly long intro leading to our latest Summer outing. I am not a Utah hater in the least. I love living here. But I do think there is one major flaw of this wonderful state: no major league baseball team. Yes. We need one. As far as I am concerned the Beez are a snooze...BUT the Orem Owlz? Totally entertaining. SO when ya can't have major, or minor...grab a hot dog and cheer on the Owlz. It is more fun that you think I promise! A group of us headed on over to enjoy the summer evening.

Loges and E

K enjoying the eve.

The men

Mel and E (Riley had to work, but he will join us next time I am sure)

Mare and Chris

My lil fam

Kyle discovering E's foot brings great relief to his poor mouth which has 4 teeth about to bust through. Emmett is such a good friend already (have you seen the lil man's eyelashes? wow!).

Kyle looking suspicious

Poor Emmett. My son is a bully. (He also bit a nephew this weekend and left a mark...out of control)

Oh what do we do in the summer time?

2011-06-21T12:48:00.000-07:00

We go camping, swimming, and celebrate our anniversary and Father's Day, among other things of course. I was considering breaking these events into separate posts, but why not put them all together? We had a JAM PACKED weekend. Jam packed with awesome things really.

It all started Friday when we decided we would go camping. After a few road blocks like our tent going MIA...we packed up our tiny car and headed for the mountains. We went to Tinney Flat campground up Santaquin canyon. What a hidden gem! It was SO beautiful up there I couldn't even believe it. We got a fabulous spot and had so much fun. We have been camping many times but never on our own. We most often join Ryan's parents, who camp in a different world than what I grew up doing. They have a trailer nicer than most of the places Ryan and I have lived complete with beds, bathroom, kitchen and satellite. While this is a fun way to camp, especially for extended periods of time, I thought it was time to show Ryan the Taylor way. Now don't get me wrong, Ryan is fully aware of how to "rough it" but I grew up camping A LOT and have many traditions that go along with it. So I couldn't wait to share a few. And what better way to celebrate our third anniversary? Of course, I took 5 million pictures. So enjoy!

Kyle was quite snug packed in the back with all our stuff. Good thing we only have one kid!

Watching us set up camp

Relaxin while Ry got cooking

Our humble abode. We still haven't found our great and spacious tent, so my Dad's two man worked out nicely!

Founder of the feast.

All the essentials for a proper trip. Mint Oreos are a Taylor must have, so I thought I would pass that tradition along.

Ryan grilling up some steaks on his new lil grill he got for Father's Day. Worked perfectly by the way.

Kyle enjoyed the great outdoors.

Before our hike/walk

After.

Roast your whole smore after assembling with a roasted mallow. Melts the chocolate so it is SO much better.

Our deer friend that kept visiting.

Mallow on fire.

All snug and ready for bed!

Good morning!

Ryan mastered the dutch oven. Breakfast was delish.

Beauty.

Another tradition. Throw an entire bag of mallows on the fire and watch it burn. It really puts on a show.

Our biggest regret? Not having done this a million times before now. We had such a wonderful time. Kyle was a trooper and seemed to enjoy himself, and he slept great...sprawled out and took WAY more than his share of that tiny tent. It was such a dream to get away.

So when we were heading back home we started listing all the things we needed to get done that day...then I said, "Or we could go to 7 Peaks?". And so we did! It was way more fun than all that other stuff we had to do. We have been a few times before but I think this trip was the best so far. Kyle went crazy splashing in the water and couldn't seem to get enough! Did I take any pictures? Need you ask?

After returning home from all our fun, it was time to prepare for Ryan's first Father's Day! I love holidays. Any excuse to celebrate is ok with me. So celebrate we did! After church I made the dinner Ryan requested...Tacos al pastor, lime cilantro rice, and a huge fruit salad followed by chocolate cheesecake for dessert. I am not a cook, so this was a challenge. I am elated to say, it all turned out! I believe in miracles. It was a fabulous relaxing day. And yep, I documented the men before church. These boys are such good sports, they have to put up with a lot living with me. I really couldn't ask for a better Dad for Kyle. Ryan is a PRO.

Ok this endless post is almost over I swear! If you are still reading I am really impressed. I never make it this far into people's novel long posts. Monday was our THREE year anniversary! SO naturally we had to celebrate! After work we dropped Kyle off to play with some cousins and headed to Cheesecake Factory. After going twice on our honeymoon in CA the tradition has just sorta evolved. We always go. It is the only time we go. It is always so fun and so delicious. Last night did not disappoint! Last year I was in Australia for our anniversary, so this year it was nice to be together. It has been a crazy year for us, so many things have changed, but we wouldn't change any of it. I can honestly say I can't remember one single day in three years that Ryan hasn't made me laugh. Really laugh. And that my friends, is all I have ever wanted. Aw. So there! Our jam packed weekend of fun! Now it is back to reality (clients, work, and shots for the lil buddy...so sad).

Half a year

2011-06-13T13:14:00.000-07:00

I know what you are all thinking. Kyle is six months,...where is the post!? Well the wait is over, here it is! Half a year has come and gone and the little guy is more entertaining than ever. So here are some of my favorites from the last month.

He like to roll over quite a bit, though he prefers going from back to tummy...the other way is still a bit of a struggle.
He can do a full push up with his arms fully extended.
He think a lot of things are hilarious and loves to laugh.
His top two teeth are JUST about poking through. He is quickly becoming a teething expert.
He prefers real food to his bottle any day.
He sleeps a lot on Mondays-exhausted from the weekend.
I love his sweet little voice that he is using more and more.
I love his high pitched squeal.
He kicks his legs like a mad man when he is excited.
he prefers to be left alone with his bottle rather than held (sad day).
He LOVES toys. He always wants something to play with at every moment and constantly needs to be chewing.
He no longer likes pacifiers. Ever. More of a chewer than a sucker I guess.
He still loves his elephant and Cardinals blanket. Can't sleep without them.
He can pretty much sit up but gets a bit tipsy.
He likes the pool.
We found out he loves dogs.
He is extremely observent...just likes to watch what is going on.
He likes to stand up.
His feet are super tiny, I don't think they have grown since birth.
He is getting quite a fuzzy head, not enough to call it hair just yet though.
He LOVES attention.
If you play with his foot and then stop, he is stick it back up until you continue.
He has graduated to an umbrella stroller!
He can make the B sound.
He is still very smiley.
He saw his first fireworks and seemed to enjoy it quite a bit.
Loves his own reflection.
Loves being outside and going on walks.
Enjoys being tossed around (oh so gently of course.)
He seems to prefer his tummy to any other position.
He can scoot himself...mostly backwards and spin in a circle.

Well as always I know I am forgetting things. When I look at picture of him when he was new I get a little sad the time has already passed, but at the same time each new stage is so much fun and it is fabulous to have an interactive, happy little man around. Love him. Pictures? Sure.(the good looking professional ones are by Amanda Peterson, who so kindly did a free mini shoot of Kyle one night).

Just because...

2011-06-07T12:17:00.000-07:00

...I liked this picture so much. It is the men on Memorial Day, which deserves its own post. But I thought I would toss this on in the mean time...

Man's best friend.

2011-06-07T12:10:00.000-07:00

Since we have been staying with Grandma, Kyle has made a very good friend. He loooved Tiffi with all his heart. Since they are about the same size, they have a good time together. it also helps that Tiffi is very well behaved and great around Kyle.

Half birthday, Whole fun.

2011-06-07T12:06:00.000-07:00

I suffer from a December birthday. It is harder than you think I promise. Anyways I don't know if its just cause he is so nice, or just got sick of my whining, but Ryan started celebrating my half birthday back when we were engaged and it really caught on (obviously). This year was definitely a hit. It even fell on a Saturday! How convenient. Anyways after Ryan got done with school work for the day, we headed to Seven Peaks, Malawi's, and Summer Sno! Triple threat of awesomeness. It was so much fun. A much needed gooood time. Pictures? Sure!

Love those toes.

Have you tried Malawi's yet? You really need to. So good.

Sometime I pose really hottly.

Summer Sno doesn't just make snow cones. They make little cups of heaven.

Flood.

2011-06-07T11:57:00.000-07:00

So about a week and a half ago something exciting happened. Not exciting in an OOO I CAN'T WAIT kind of way...exciting in an out of the norm sort of way. It was Saturday morning. Ryan had left for a six hour test he had to take and my dear mother was coming to watch the babe so I could go running without him. Well upon her arrival she was asking how she could help me (cause she is just that nice) and I said my flowers needed to be watered out back. So we looked out my back window and what did we see? A very large puddle. I thought nothing of it, but my mom instantly thought the basement would be flooded...aaaaand she was right! Oh so flooded. Turns out a sprinkler broke underground. Thankfully nothing irreplaceable was lost. Also thankfully my parents are sort of veterans at the whole flooded basement thing, so they sprung into action knowing just what to do!

As I took this picture of my dad sweeping water he said "Oh boy you are going to blog this aren't you?" Yes. Yes I am!

Cool boots. I know you are jealous. Also...still in pajamas...apologies. Nast.

Memo: if you are going to store things in a plastic tub to keep them safe from things like floods, remember to put the lid on.

Gotta have some fun right?

Luckily Captain Awesome awoke from his nap to save the day!

So that is our story. Could have been way worse. We are now gypsies until all the repairs are done. Turns out it was bad enough to re drywall, repaint, and recarpet. Moral of the story? Store things in plastic tubs with the lid ON and keep things off the ground. The end.

Telling some stories

2011-05-26T12:10:00.000-07:00

So aside from being my adorable mother, my mom has held many titles. Child development specialist, kindergarten teacher, preschool teacher, potty training boot camp drill sergeant, story teller and puppeteer are just a few. Seriously, give my mom five minutes and she will be your kid's new favorite person. I guarantee it. She is like the child whisperer. Blows my mind, and no, I am NOTHING like her in this aspect. Kids are cool and all...but put me in a preschool room full of them for three hours and I would rather die. Anyways, today she had a puppet gig at Learning Dynamics Preschool (if we live in Utah when K is three he is SO going there), where she used to teach. Kyle and I decided to tag along to watch her do what she does best, and boy did she deliver! There were a million 3-4 year olds....and they LOVED every second. One little boy even shouted after the end..."too short!!". Hilarious. We had a lot of fun and Kyle enjoyed his backstage pass to play with some puppets before the show began.

K with grandma and great grandma before the show

Lovin the puppets

the flamingo pre show

Dear Friend,

2011-05-21T14:18:00.000-07:00

I would like to thank you for sharing your luxurious swing. Rather than flaunt it, you always let me take a turn. Here's to a future of sharing.

Love, Kyle

I guess being jealous of your friends cool stuff starts early. Kyle has a friend with the BMW of baby swings. Whenever we visit he likes to go for a ride. It is hilarious how excited and happy he gets about it. Then you add the mobile that spins above? The kid can hardly contain himself. So this one is for you Mr. E...thanks for sharing your sweet ride.

A perfect equation

2011-05-20T21:18:00.000-07:00

Good movie.

Great snuggles.

Delicious food.

A wonderful evening

We like to party

2011-05-16T10:43:00.000-07:00

In the Lundgreen house we look for every reason to celebrate. Luckily when Ryan's favorite holiday rolls around we don't have to look very hard! It was time for a fiesta! We had everyone over for a pot luck wonderland. The weather was great, the people were great, and the food was great! Pics thanks to Mike.

The babies joined in

Bailamos!

We ate, drank, and were merry.

Pinata!

5 Months!

2011-05-10T20:34:00.000-07:00

It is about that time again! Time to journal about my growing lil' love. He is 5 months today! I can hardly believe it. First of all, look at him grow!

It has been a great month full of firsts, as always! How about I list a few of my favorite then post my favorite pics from the month? Sound good? Great.

He truly discovered his feet. They are now his favorite toy.
He got a taste of summer and never wants to go back. Loves wearing shorts and no socks.
He went on his first vacation! That included leaving the state for the first time, first time swimming, first time staying out til' 1 in the morning, first hotel room and first baseball game.
He got his FIRST TWO TEETH! At the very same time I might add. What a champ!
He had his first solids, and decided carrots are his favorite.
He laughs all the time now! It is so fabulous.
He is proving to be ticklish.
He is about the happiest kid around, smiling constantly.
He discovered sucking his thumb.
His lil friend finally arrived!
He continues to be long and lean, wearing 9 month length and 4 month waist.
He has moved on from BFF Octi to BFF elephant (to be photoed later).
We took the infant head rest out of his car seat!
He loves to grab my face. I actually love it too.
He loves kisses.
He went on a two day snuggle strike but luckily has returned to loving cuddles.
He continues to sleep wonderfully through the night.
He isn't a huge fan of naps.
He loves to be where the party is.
He is learning he wants to be played with and paid attention to.
He has mastered fake coughing and fake crying to get what he wants.
He sleeps in really funny positions, and now loves it on his side the most.
He likes to stand up.
He must chew on something at all times. No exceptions.
He loves his personal penguin music video...sometimes it is the only thing that can console him.
He went on his first picnic.
He has started grabbing the spoon as you try to feed him.
He continues to be the cutest baby to ever live.

I know there are things I am forgetting. Mostly I just love hanging out with him. He does funny things and always makes me laugh. He is basically just fun to hang out with. Already a cool kid. If you haven't spent much time with him, call and see if he can pencil you in. He is worth it. We are definitely the cliche first time parents completely obsessed with every little thing he does. And we like it. So far every month has gotten more fun, I am thinking it will just keep getting better! We loooove our lil' man. And now, some pictures.

Today

2011-05-08T11:38:00.000-07:00

Mothers Day has new meaning for me this year. I am sure I have nothing to say that isn't said often enough by all mothers. But I sure love my lil' man. The world will definitely never look the same to me. My perspective on everything is forever changed, and I don't mind.

I can't help but wonder why I am so lucky. Not only was I able to HAVE a baby, but from finding out I was pregnant, to giving birth, to now having a 5 month old, everything has gone so smoothly. No complications. Don't get me wrong, being pregnant was not my favorite thing, and the first 6 weeks of Kyle's life were the hardest of my life. But overall? I have been blessed. I don't understand at all the trials or infertility, or the loss of a child so I won't claim to. But I would just like to recognize those who do. I can't imagine the pain and I can't tolerate the insensitivity of people. So many women would give anything to experience the discomforts of pregnancy, or the pain of childbirth, or to endure the sleepless nights with a healthy newborn. Whenever I am struggling, I really try to remember how blessed I am to have what I have. Random tangent from me.

Have a Happy Mother's Day, and as you celebrate remember that for many, today might be a hard day, for many reasons. It is definitely a day to make me grateful. A big thanks to ALL the women in my life who have helped me along the way.

It has been decided.

2011-04-30T15:05:00.000-07:00

If you know me, you know I think everyone looks like an animal. No exceptions. Don't ask me what your animal is. I stopped sharing. People get offended...so I only discuss people's animal look alikes with an small, close group of individuals. Well, a few weeks ago it happened. K's animal came through. He looks like a tiny lil turtle. Its in his face and neck. Anyways at my parents on Easter I was able to snag this perfect shot.

Yep. Cutest turtle ever.

Viva Las Vegas

2011-04-25T13:39:00.000-07:00

We took a very much needed vacay to Vegas this last week. It was warm, relaxing and marvelous. We ate, swam, saw some sites, and most importantly spent 24/7 together. F A B U L O U S. It was our first trip with Kyle and I must say he is a little champ! Perfect in the car, slept great when he was supposed to and even followed his bedtime in the stroller as we kept him out til 1 am (yes we were THOSE parents. judge if you must.) We also got to catch some of our nephews baseball tourney and spent some time with a few of Ryan's sibs. As my dad would say, a good time was had by all.

We also discovered K has his two front bottom teeth in! Pretty big deal I think. I also got to eat at Steak n' Shake, which I have been craving for 12 years now. It didn't disappoint! Now we are back...Ryan is back to school and work and I return to work tomorrow. Sure was a GREAT break! We feel lucky to have been able to live it up!

Squash

2011-04-14T12:52:00.000-07:00

Before I had a baby I was always irritated by people's blogs that turned into baby diaries. I always thought "don't they do anything else!?" Well now I know. I do do other things. But I just don't love them as much. Want me to blog about work, cleaning, running errands, and my other to do's every day? That's what I thought. Snooze fest. Instead, I will continue to post pics of my cute lil man. Cause I love him. And at the end of the day, no matter what else I have accomplished, he usually takes the cake as my favorite.And since few people really read this anyway, I will write what I want thank you very much. If you get annoyed, well lighten up :)

Drum roll please? Today buddy had SQUASH for lunch. I think he enjoyed the break from Similac. I was just excited to bust out the pile of bibs that have been calling his name since December.

All ready to snarf!

Yum!

Satisfied.

My Four Month Old Friend

2011-04-11T16:09:00.000-07:00

Yep it is true. My lil' man is 4 months old. It goes by fast but at the same time it is hard to remember life before him. These posts are a snooze fest for some I am sure but it is a really good way for me to kind of journal once a month about my babe. So just skip it if you don't wanna listen to me ramble.

Shots went well today. The nurses said Kyle's cry is extra sad compared to most babies. I guess he just knows how to work it. He weighed in at 12 lbs. 11 oz. (10th %) and 25 inches long (50th %). He is just my tiny lil guy!

It has been a good month! What is new? Well I think this month's faves include:

Constant smiling. He has all sorts of smiles. He will often do a half smile that I consider his courtesy smile. He uses it when people are trying really hard to get some loves from him. He will stare at them, flash this half grin, then go back to staring. His huge grin is my real fave. He opens his mouth as wide as he can and just smiles. Love.
We got our first LAUGHS this month! There isn't a sound in the world I enjoy more. He definitely is becoming a Daddy's boy. Laughs tons more for Ry than he ever does for me. Life just isn't fair :)
The tub has become his favorite place. He loves to play, splash and soak til he shrivels.
He has rolled over once! He often gets about half way and then we help him, but ONE time, he did it on his own!
He is actually enjoying tummy time.
He puts everything possible into his mouth and there is a lil tooth we can see! Hasn't poked through yet.
He can hold his own bottle, when in the mood.
He is still BFF's with the octopus.
He is often turned the opposite way of how we lay him down to go to sleep. He also puts himself to sleep at night and sleeps soundly through the night. He also straddles the slats on his crib...time for bumper pads eh?
The fuzz on his head is now visible if you fluff it after a tub.
He is a bit arrogant...loves looking at himself in the mirror more than any other activity. The other day I was holding him while I was doing something and didn't notice he was in front of a mirror. I caught him grinning at that handsome reflection.
He looks fabulous in blue, and we are thinking that will be his eye color.
He is pretty shy. Only smiles and chats with a lucky few. Totally clams up in large crowds and calmly keeps to himself. Wonder where he gets that from :)
He flails his arms and legs so fast he is often a blur of movement.
He continues to be a very happy, content, easy baby. I told Ryan if I had a promise they would all be this good, I would be much more likely to have more children.

And here are a few of my favorite pics from the last month. Bring on Spring!