The Fletcher Family Blog

Zoo!

2012-01-18T19:20:00.005-07:00

We took a family day to the Zoo last week. It was such a nice day, all the animals were awake and moving around instead of lying still from the heat of summer! Chad was such a big boy and walked most the time.

Outlook to the Giraffes

Yay the Zoo! (Actually more like...Yay I'm free from the stroller!)
Fox

Feeding the Giraffes!

Trying to join the Tigers

Camel Rides!Loving the goats

New Years!

2012-01-18T19:16:00.002-07:00

We decided to hang at home this year to celebrate New Year's especially since mom had work the next day. We BBQ and watch Daddy light some fireworks in the street from the back of daddy's truck and had a blast!

Post Christmas

2012-01-18T19:13:00.004-07:00

Chad's pretty much obsessed with his bike...
Santa picked well this year! :)

Christmas 2011

2011-12-31T21:13:00.005-07:00

Our Christmas TreeGoofing around!
Decorating the treePutting on the star!Yay! All finished!

Opening presents with Grandma Fletcher

Thanks Grandma!

Daddy and Chad on Christmas Eve

Santa came!

Chad's stocking

Grandpa/Grandma Bennett's stockings

Daddy's stocking

Opening stockings!

New Red Bike!

Gifts!

Cousins!

Storytime with Mickey Mouse!

Hope everyone had a great Christmas!

Family Photos 2011

2011-12-02T23:26:00.009-07:00

We had our Family Photos taken last week and LOVE the way they turned out! Kendyl always does such an AMAZING job and is SUPER talented. I can't believe how big my baby is!

Done by Kendyl Hawkins with Hawkins Photography (sidebar)!

Thank you Kendyl!

Halloween 2011

2011-11-01T12:20:00.004-07:00

We went up to Dan and Sarah's house to trick or treat with cousins like every year and eat chili, soup, hot dogs and homemade root beer! Chad had an awesome time trick or treating with Jessica and Savannah! He got the hang of it real quick! :)

Our Pirate!
Thor (Isaac), Halo Arbiter (Cade), Pirate (Chad)

Keeping up with the crowd!Cupcake (Savannah), Rapunzel (Jessica), Pirate (Chad)

"Let's Trick or Treat!"

Us!

Zombie (Cole), Thing 2 (Brianna)

Jake

HAPPY HALLOWEEN!

California

2011-11-01T12:05:00.005-07:00

We took a trip this past week for my birthday to spend time in California with Papa and Grandma Bennett and see David and Lindsay and cousins! We always have such a great time, it's hard to come back! We went to the mall and rode the train and carousal, to Spooktacular at Logan's school, ward fall festival, jumping jammin, Aquarium of the Pacific, beach, not to mention all the outside playing with bikes and the playhouse with cousins!

My mom bought the kidders these adorable balloons that walk on the ground as they float! Chad LOVES his doggie!

It was hilarious to watch the kidders walk while trying to watch the balloons behind them!Our pirate at Spooktacular!Blowing out Mama's birthday candles!Happy Birthday Mommy!Yummy Cake!Aquarium of the PacificTouching the sharks and sting rays!Beach!Grandma, Papa and ChadUs!

Pumpkins!

2011-11-01T12:00:00.002-07:00

We carved our pumpkins last week! Originally we gave Chad markers to color his pumpkin with but the minute he saw us cutting and carving we knew it wasn't going to be that easy! He had a blast helping cut and carve his pumpkin and scoop out the insides!

Finished Jack-o-laterns!

Arizona State Fair

2011-11-01T11:49:00.004-07:00

We headed out to the state fair last week with Josh and Christina to eat some yummy fried food, ride some fun rides and win some games!

Josh, Chris and Chad
Monkey and sword!
Pony Ride!There was a butterfly exhibit where you could go feed butterflies and Chad loved it!

Love this picture!

All of us!

Can't wait to do it again next year!

Schnepf Farms

2011-10-11T20:14:00.008-07:00

We took our annual trip to Schnepf Farms this last week to pick up some pumpkins and like every year had an awesome time!

Facepainting!

Alan, Chad and Grandma FletcherSO big! Cute boy! Train ride

Pony ride

Thumbs up dude!

Carousal

Oh Yah! Oh Yah! Piggy! Goat loves! Feeding the Donkey

We attempted to let Chad ride this plane by himself since Alan was too big to go on with him, but before everyone got on and strapped in Chad had figured out how to get the seatbelt off. Yep, no plane ride for this kiddo. :)

GREEN glow light!Son and Mom

Science Center and Ducks!

2011-10-11T20:09:00.003-07:00

Yep, Chad's eyeball!
SUPER excited!

Mama and Chad

DUCKS!

My favorite two year old

2011-10-11T20:06:00.003-07:00

I love this kid.

(Thanks Aunt Leah for all your books!)

Can't reach the lights?

2011-10-01T21:38:00.001-07:00

Sedona

2011-08-30T20:25:00.005-07:00

Alan won a competition at work for the best upsale in the month of July to Sedona all expenses paid! We left Friday afternoon and spent the weekend in the beautiful red mountains!

Our resort Amara

Us
Slide Rock

On the way home we spent the day at Out of Africa and had a great time! (minus the heat)

Tiger Splash!

We fed the tigers after watching them play in the water!

Safari Ride

Feeding the Camel

Feeding the Giraffe carrots! (notice Alan with veggie sticks in his mouth?)

Yep, big kiss from the giraffe!

We had a great time as a family for the weekend!

Fun in the sun!

2011-07-30T14:50:00.002-07:00

Ducks and the lake...

2011-07-16T13:26:00.005-07:00

We took Chad to feed the ducks at Freestone Park last week. He loved it. It was funny to watch because Chad would throw the food to get them as close as possible and reach out to touch them! Luckily, the ducks were too fast for him!

He was walking around saying "Quack Quack!"

We stopped to look at the fishes (Look at Chads feet, yah, no fear)

and played at the park

On the way home we got caught in this! (yep, thats dust!)

We also made another trip to the lake! (Leah and Cade)

Cade!

Alan!

Chad turns 2!

2011-06-30T22:19:00.005-07:00

Along with Disneyland (next post down) while we were visiting Grandma and Papa Bennett in Cali we celebrated Chad turning 2 with dinner and cake, along with making a trip to the beach to play in the sun!

I'm 2!

Ta-da!
2 years old!

Coley and Chad

Grandma and Chad

Mommy, Chad and Daddy

Mickey Cake!

Beach! (Written by Cole)

Playing in the sand!

US!

Mommy and Chad

I love the beach!

Cheese!

Disneyland!

2011-06-30T22:05:00.003-07:00

We decided since Chad turned 2 this year on the 27th we wanted to take him to Disneyland for his birthday and spend a week in Cali with Grandma and Papa Bennett! He likes Mickey Mouse so what better way to celebrate his birthday than meeting Mickey! We had such a great time we didn't get home till midnight! Chad LOVED meeting Mickey!

The Gang Papa and Chad watching Mickey dance!Alan and Cole (who was visiting also with us) on the Jungle Boat ride
Chad and Daddy in line for Pirates

Mommy and Chad getting ready for Small World

Teacups!

Chad's very own Mickey ears!

Meeting Mickey!

Chad LOVED meeting Mickey! Even gave him a thumbs up and waved bye and said "See ya!"

Toon Town!

Jailbird!

We had to peel him away from each car!

Didn't even make it out of the park!

Fun at the Lake!

2011-06-11T10:50:00.004-07:00

Alan has been begging to take the boat out finally since 1. I'm not pregnant this year and 2. Chad is old enough to go! Since it's been hot he has been asking every time we have a day off together! So when Leah mentioned taking her boys sometime with us Alan jumped all over the opportunity! We headed out this week for the day and managed to add two of Sarah's older kiddos to the group as well! We had such a great time and Chad LOVED the boat and playing in the water!

Leah and Cade

Brianna and ColeChad hanging out on the back of the boat while we swimCole, Cade, Brianna and Isaac

Master Boater!Alan and me

Leah, Me, Brianna

Cade

Alan, Cole and Brianna cruizin

Chad playing in the sand/rocks

Cole, Alan, Brianna hanging on the beach

Swim Lessons!

2011-06-03T10:31:00.004-07:00

Before I was married and had Chad I would always take my sister Sarah's kidders to swim lessons at Celeste 's house each summer. Never did I imagine taking our son one day! Alan took Chad to his first swim lesson on Tuesday while Mom worked.

Everytime we ask Chad "Do you want to go swimming?" He automatically assumes it's with his cousin Jessica at Aunt Sarah's house and gets excited. Little did he know this was a different kind of swimming! :)

Excited for swimming!

and once he figured it out...Yep, not a huge fan!
Celeste very nicely called Chad "strong and stubborn." Pretty much sums my kiddo up!
Wonder where he got that from?....
Kick Kick Kick! (while crying)Yesterday was round two and this time mommy got to go! The minute we walked in the backyard the water works started, but after a couple minutes he stopped and had a great time! So proud of our bugger! I was so busy watching him I forgot to take pictures, but I did manage to get this one of him "diving" at the very end of class.

Yay for swim lessons!

Creating Memories

2011-05-27T10:38:00.004-07:00

We took a trip to one of our favorite places early last week, the phoenix children's museum. Chad always has such a fun time there. It's perfect for his age and they even have a room dedicated to 3yo and younger where he can run wild and he does just that!

We also took a trip to Rainforest Cafe at AZ Mills. Chad recently is all about animals and sounds so we were super excited to show him all the animals there and eat lunch.

and playing outside with Daddy!

"Hmmm..Let's See"

2011-05-26T10:56:00.003-07:00

A little reading entertainment after dinner...

Happy Easter!

2011-04-26T20:48:00.002-07:00

Even though Mommy was sick with Pneumonia, we managed to have an AWESOME Easter! Alan and Chad went to church in the morning while I slept to get better. Our church is at 8am and because I didn't get home till 5am that morning from the ER we decided to have the Easter Bunny come after nap time. Chad was beyond excited! He loved his Easter basket! We did an egg hunt for Chad in the backyard (don't mind the weeds, we are busy!). I told Alan to hide them easy since it was his first time and he's a little guy. When we told him to get his basket and he saw the first egg outside he was OFF! Let me just say, next year, maybe not so easy. :)

He loved it!
Had to take his eggs on a bike ride!

Yum! Candy!

Family Fun Day

2011-04-21T21:05:00.004-07:00

We had a family fun day today...

with lots of swinging

some drinks from Sonic
dying Easter eggs

or coloring on them (I'm sure you can tell which are Chad's) :)

Cant wait till next time!

Dancing

2011-04-20T13:58:00.004-07:00

This is mostly what our day consisted of. I love days off.

Camping!

2011-04-07T21:16:00.004-07:00

We made another annual trip camping last weekend to Dead Horse Ranch State Park and as always had a GREAT time! It was warm, but windy and we played in the river, hiked the trails, collected bugs and flew our kites! Along with celebrating Porter's 8th birthday with a Pinata, games and cupcakes!

Playing with Maddie dog (or just playing with Maddie's bowls)

Cousin Savannah hanging out!Hiking the trails!Cousin Ava playing in the water!Chad's waterfall! Flying kites! or trying to... (he did get it down and flew it with Chad)Thanks Ava for bringing your toy to entertain Chad! :)

Battle wounds to prove the good time had!

We are sad the weekend is over but looking forward to next year!

Our weekend

2011-03-20T14:31:00.003-07:00

Finally, our child has decided he will eat fruit! He will only eat bananas, strawberries, grapes and an occasional orange...but hey, we are making progress! Cheese balls anyone? Chad feels the need to shove as many in his little mouth as possible and then request "more?" Playing new computer toy with Daddy. (We call his look the "focus" face, so intense!)We also made a trip to the Renaissance Festival. It was hot and we lost Chad's sword but had a good time regardless!
Watching the horses in the joust! Riding an elephant with Daddy!

Just Relaxing!

2011-03-11T11:39:00.002-07:00

Who doesn't want to sit on the coffee table, sunglasses on...binky in mouth, watching Curious George?

Chuck E Cheese

2011-02-28T22:09:00.003-07:00

We were able to take a family day and head to Chuck E Cheese for some fun! It was Chads first time going and he was more than impressed with the place! The minute we walked in and he scanned the stomping grounds he was begging to get out of Alan's arms. We ate in the Toddler Zone so he could go to town on the rides and after took him out into the rest of the play area. We had such an awesome time, just what we needed!

We ended up getting a hand held nerf shooter/rocket thingy from our tickets we won, and Chad hasn't put it down since we got home!

Update

2011-02-16T20:58:00.006-07:00

I haven't posted in awhile due to the fact that I maxed out my memory in my laptop due to numerous pictures and videos of guess who? His name starts with a C and ends in a HAD. :) I had to buy an external hard drive so I could transfer pictures to clear up some room on my computer. Here's a quick update of what we have been up to lately besides work and school for Alan.

We welcomed another niece into the family on January 29th. Brother David and SIL Lindsay had Lacy Mae Bennett. She is seriously so adorable and tiny as ever. Chad is honestly a beast next to her. Lacy makes 17 grandchildren in our family. Love you Lacy do!

David, Lindsay and Lacy

Lacy Mae

Chad loving his cousin!

Alan and I managed to get a day off together and took Chad to the Zoo. We had such a great time together as a family enjoying the animals!

Chad LOVED the goats. (And if you know Alan and how crazy he is about germs, you can only imagine how he was holding back) :)

And just some random funny ones...

Check out that diaper!

Aunt Leah brought over girl scout cookies tonight, and Chad got ahold of the thin mints!

Sea Life and New Years!

2011-01-22T11:18:00.004-07:00

On New Year's Eve we met up with Dan, Sarah and family and had fun at Sea Life in the AZ Mills with cousins!

Cousins and Chad

Touching the Starfish
Yay!Chad couldn't just stand and look, he had to get as close as possible!

Cousin Savannah! Chad with Cousin JessiMomma and Chad

After Sea Life we headed over to Sarah's to meet up with other cousins and watch fireworks!

Chad and Cade watching Fireworks!Sparkler!

Christmas 2010

2011-01-22T11:07:00.004-07:00

We had such a great Christmas! We spent Christmas morning at our house with Santa gifts and breakfast and then headed up to Sarah's for our family Christmas and fun! When we arrived home that afternoon we were welcomed in with a wonderful Christmas dinner prepared by Alan's mom, Kim. So yummy!

Santa brought Chad a playset (that he only had time to put up the main parts, then Daddy finished the next day!) :)

Swing!
Crazy climber!Chad's buddy, Cousin Ava!Piano! The beginning of DJ Chad!

Mom and Seesters Sarah and Leah! Missing Megan and Linds :(

Puzzles!

Bubbles!

"Nice! Sweet!"

2011-01-12T21:17:00.002-07:00

DJ Chad!

2011-01-05T19:19:00.004-07:00

Papa and Grandma Bennett bought Chad a piano/music player for Christmas due to his enjoyment of Papa's piano while visiting in California. He LOVES the music player. He dances and dances when the music plays but of course I can never get it on video. I was able to catch him the other day just for a second on video, but it still doesn't do justice to his normal jam sessions!

"Ellllo?"

2010-12-16T20:43:00.002-07:00

Chad and Daddy talking on the phone!

California!

2010-12-10T10:38:00.006-07:00

We left Sunday morning and took a trip to visit Grandpa and Grandma in California this week till Thursday! We had a fun filled week FULL of activities and had an awesome time as always! Thanks for such a FUN and EXCITING weekend Grandpa and Grandma!

Of course we went to the mall to ride the train and carousal which Chad always enjoys!

On Monday night we took the Metro to Olvera Street to shop around and eat at Phillipes. Yum!
On Tuesday we went to Knotts Berry Farm and Chad LOVED it! (Actually we ALL did!) Grandma and Chad in front of Camp Snoopy

Chad LOVED Snoopy and kept saying "DOGGY!"He also LOVED the Race car ride and giggled everytime it went around the corner fast!

The Camp Bus RideThe Monster Truck Ride (He LOVED steering the wheel!)

Tug Boat RideThe Mine RideUsDidn't like Santa very much!At first Chad would cry when the ride was over because he wanted to still play, but by the end of the day he figured out when he left one ride we got to go on another one! Mommy and Daddy got to ride "big kid" rides too while Grandma and Chad hung out and during Chad's nap!

On Wednesday night we headed back up to the mall to see the "snowfall." The outdoor section of the mall play Christmas songs and snow falls for about 10 minutes and Chad loved it!

The Gang

We had such a great time and it was so nice to get away as a family for some R&R! Can't wait till next time....

Christmas Tree

2010-12-10T10:22:00.004-07:00

Last Friday night we bought our Christmas tree and decorated! This year was SO much fun having Chad old enough to help decorate! (Or un-decorate depending on how you look at it!)

Lit up!

"Helping" sort though ornaments Daddy and Chad
Putting ornaments on with MommyFinished product (Notice the Candy Cane by Chad's feet. Yep.)

Last year I posted this blog about our family tradition. We picked this ornament for our tree this year to remind us of the accomplishment with nursing school being finished, passing state boards, and starting my first job as Alice,RN.

Jessica's Ears!

2010-12-10T10:11:00.003-07:00

Last week we went with Sarah and Brianna to get Jessica's ears pierced. Jessi called me two nights before to inform me that Daddy and Mommy both said she could go get her ears pierced and was BEYOND excited to do it! I told her we would come up Tuesday after Aunt Alice woke up from working and Uncle Alan was off work and she was ready to go! On Tuesday I called her on my way up to Sarah's and she wasn't too sure about it anymore. She said "It's going to hurt!" but of course Jessi ended up wanting to go and once we got there climbed right up on Sarah's lap and was ready for ear piercing! There was only ONE gal working so she had to do each ear separately and Jessi was SO brave! I was SO proud of her!

Chad watching his cousin get her ears pierced, not a big fan!

The Aftermath (still sad) :( Feeling better!

Halloween 2010

2010-11-04T16:32:00.007-07:00

Halloween is my favorite holiday! Not only do I love the season of Fall, and the smell of pumpkin and spices, but I love seeing everyone dressed up in costumes having fun! This year we had Grandma and Grandpa Bennett visiting and had a fun-filled, busy weekend!

Grandpa took some pictures of Chad in his yellow truck

Big Boy!

Saturday morning we got up and spent the day with the Porters at Brianna's soccer game and Hyrum, Cole, Brianna and Brock's piano recital.

Chad LOVES his cousins! Grandpa BennettGrandma and BriannaFriday night (I know, backwards) was our Ward Party. Thanks for the pic Kendyl!Momma and Frankenstein

Daddy, Chad and Aunt Leah

Saturday night we headed to Uncle David and Aunt Lindsay's trunk or treat in Casa Grande where we met up with cousins Logan and Ava!

Little Frankenstein!

Daddy and Chad

Chad, Leah and Mommy

Chad, Logan, Cade, Ava and Isaac

Trick or Treat!

On Sunday night Grandma hosted a "Bennett Family Home Evening" at our house. We had apple bobbing, making paper bats, witch's hands, frying jack-o-lantern tortillas, donut race, and fishing for treats!

Yum..Apple!

Megan, Carson, Lindsay and Ava

Cade and Isaac

Donuts!

Apple Bobbing!

Making witch hands!

The Alisa's

The Porter's (Nanny McPhee and her orphans!)

The Bennett's (Minus James)

The Bennett's

We had such an awesome weekend we didn't want the fun to end! Looking forward to next time!

Happy Birthday to me!

2010-11-04T16:28:00.002-07:00

On the 28th we celebrated my 27th birthday! I worked that night but came outside from work to my car decorated from my hubby! I also came home to a birthday cake made by Alan! (Notice the missing frosting? He ran out...too funny!) :) Thanks for a GREAT birthday Daddy!

AZ State Fair and Childrens Museum!

2010-10-25T17:24:00.006-07:00

Last weekend we went to the AZ State Fair with David, Lindsay, Logan and Ava! We had so much fun, like every year!

He loves the carousal!

Logan's favorite ride by far!
Hanging out!Love this little girl!
Yay! Train ride with Daddy!

Fishing for....

an AWESOME light saber! Logan and David
Riding his pony named Dr. Pepper

And of course our traditional fried twinkie! Logan just wanted to lick the powder sugar!AND DONE!On Tuesday we picked up cousin Jessica and headed to the Childrens Museum, where we had another full day of fun!

Jessi

Momma and Chad weighing beans

Uncle and Jessi!

Painting on rocks

LOVED the car to play on!

Bike ride with Daddy!

Playing in the campground

Family Photo Shoot

2010-10-11T20:14:00.004-07:00

We had family pictures taken last weekend and love the way they turned out! These are only a few of them but I had to post some! Thank you so much Kendyl for such an AMAZING job! You are so talented!

Schnepf Farms

2010-10-11T16:45:00.005-07:00

We went on our annual trip to Schnepf Farms this past weekend and had such a great time. We went Friday afternoon before the night crowd came in and had no lines to wait in and practically the whole park to ourselves. It was awesome! I LOVE anything related to Halloween so of course we stayed as long as possible! :)

Look up Chad! (Right.)

LOVED the goats! (Until he saw the slide to go on in the corner)Do you know what he's thinking? I do. How do I get up there with you?The haystack mazeHoney Bee ride!Us

Pony Ride! He was giggling the whole time!Pumpkins!

A little Sesame Street Dance

2010-09-27T16:12:00.003-07:00

Chad loves music and dances whenever he gets a chance! Anytime a song comes on the TV he will move his arms and stomp his feet but of course I can never get it recorded! I got this little dance while he was watching Sesame Street and wanted to share...

Elmo Chair

2010-09-03T22:17:00.003-07:00

We got Chad a new toy. Again. We just couldn't help it. I mean...could you...when you know you'll get a reaction like this?

I think not.

California

2010-08-26T15:59:00.011-07:00

This past weekend we took a trip to California to visit my parents (AKA Grandpa and Grandma Bennett). We had a fun filled weekend and didn't want the trip to end!

On Saturday we took the Express boat over to Catalina for the day! We walked the shops, ate yummy food, strolled around on a golf cart and played at the beach!

Waiting for the boat

Grandma and Chad on the boat
Mommy trying to keep her stomach in check. (I don't do well on slower boats)

Daddy, Chad and a Pelican!
Playing in the sand!Grandma and Chad exploringThe Gang
UsChad LOVES the beach! He would run straight for the water and Alan would have to chase after him! (California boy? I'd say so!)

We also went to Bass Pro Shop with Grandpa and saw the fishes!On Monday we went to the mall and rode the train and carousal

I think this picture will explain how much fun Chad had this past weekend!

and a good night!

More Pictures

2010-07-27T17:20:00.004-07:00

At back to school night, hanging in Aunt Leah's classroom Another water day with Daddy!
Big pucker! Crazy boy! (under kitchen table)and a good night...Using his diaper basket for entertainment!

Somehow our child ended up with wavy hair (mine is stick straight, but wavy is on both sides so I guess I shouldnt be that suprised) and when it gets long, like now, its SUPER wavy!

Summer Fun!

2010-07-20T00:01:00.005-07:00

This is a daily happening in our house now! Climbing under the coffee table, he also thinks underneath our kitchen table is a jungle gym!
Playing outside with the water sprinkler daddy bought!Daddy and Chad

Loves the water!

Chad is ALL BOY!

Update

2010-07-10T22:16:00.002-07:00

Here's what we've been up to lately!

Last week we found ourselves in the ER with a little guy who was running a temp of 103.7 on Motrin. I started to worry when he stopped putting out wet diapers and wasn't drinking ANY fluids that the ER was the best way to go before he got super dehydrated. I figured we'd go in, get some antibiotics, maybe an IV for a couple hours and go home. WRONG. Apparently our buddy was running too high of a WBC count to let go home and needed to be monitored overnight with IV fluids and antibiotics. Of course all kinds of test were run to "rule out" major problems as to why his WBC was high. In this process a chest x-ray was taken and we were told Chad had a nodule on his lung that needed to be looked further into. I'm sorry? a what? Right. So blood was drawn to run tests for Valley Fever, because this normally can cause a nodule on a lung. It was a looong night to say the least. My brother James stopped by and he and Alan gave Chad a beautiful blessing. (Thanks James!) Lots and lots of prayers were offered for Chad that night. I have alot of giving back to my Heavenly Father. :) In the morning the Doc asked if it would be okay to get another chest x-ray because he was hoping the radiologist that read the results was over protective and it was his bones lying in a weird position or just a bad x-ray. After a long wait, we got the results. NORMAL. Once again the power of prayer came through. We are continually blessed and have our Heavenly Father to thank for that. My testimony grows stronger and stronger each day, it seems like I cannot give enough thanks or gratitude to our Heavenly Father for the blessing we continue to receive.

We were able to leave that night after Chad's temp got under control and his antibiotics finished and he has been back to himself since, with all his craziness!

Once he started feeling better we took him around the floor in a wagon which he loved. He kept waving at the staff saying "Ayyyyy!" (Bye)
Big cheese!Chad loves to play in the island cabinet which holds our pots and pans. Normally this is a pretty loud process, but today as I was writing some bills at the table it got quiet. I went to check him and this is what I found....

I love this child.

Our Big Boy turns 1!

2010-06-29T16:35:00.007-07:00

Our big boy turned 1 on Sunday! Its amazing how time flies! We celebrated Saturday afternoon with a family get together at our house. We had a kiddie pool, water slide and slip n slide in the backyard and ate pizza and cake! It was a blast! Thanks family for being there to share Chad's birthday with us!

Happy 1st birthday to the MOST amazing son! We love you!

Getting ready for the party, playing with Elmo

The set up
Some of the cousins in the poolWater Slide and kiddie poolAva do!Daddy and Chad swimmingPlaying on the slip n slide
Coley and Chad Big cheeses from Logan!Isaac having fun!Grandma and AvaDaddy and Chad going down the slide!Birthday Boy!

Cousins!Sesame Street Pinata!Birthday Cake

Cousins! Mommy and Daddy with our Birthday boy!Opening presentsand a good night after a fun day!

Laughlin

2010-06-17T17:13:00.005-07:00

For Alan's 28th birthday we met some of our favorite Californians in Laughlin to celebrate! We had such a great time! (Not to mention our first vacation without baby)

Josh and Chris

The Gang

Alan and I Chris and IAlan and JoshMe and Chris
Us

ALOT of Chad!

2010-06-17T16:59:00.003-07:00

Have I mentioned yet that our son is out of control? (and I say that in the most loving way a mom can say it)
Yep, he is standing in our fridge. He insists on speed crawling over to it everytime the door opens to flip the light on and off, but he doesnt want to stand outside the fridge. He has to be IN it.Tangled in daddys bday balloons
Doesnt like sloppy joes, like his mommy! and a good night!
Even with all his craziness, have I told you how much I stinkin love this kid? I could eat him right up.

Kisses for Daddy

Swimming!

LOVES the water!

Cousins Cade and JakeCousin JessicaCousin Savannah

24 Steps!

2010-06-07T19:49:00.003-07:00

Look at our big boy! (Sorry I filmed him going away from me so you only see his backside)

Memorial Day

2010-06-02T10:38:00.004-07:00

Grandma was here visiting this weekend, which means lots of fun! We hung out at Sarah's most of the weekend and played in the pool and on the bouncy water slide. Needless to say WE HAD A BLAST!

Chad likes cabinets..but not any cabinets..ones with pots to bang on.

He also likes eggs..and cheese!

and swimming with cousins!
Alan, Chad and cousin Katie!
Cousin Ava and Chad!

Aunt and Uncle again!

2010-05-17T00:17:00.003-07:00

That's right! This will be the 14th time! (15 grandkids all together including Chad)

Sister Sarah had her baby girl on Friday night around 11:15pm weighing in at 6lbs 9 oz, 19 inches long.

Introducing....Savannah Porter! Number 7 for Dan and Sarah! (Crazy right?) :)

Savannah is 3 1/2 weeks early so she is being monitored in the Special Care Nursery for her breathing. I went to see her Saturday morning as soon as I was off work so I could love her up! She was on an O2 hood then, but now she's on a nasal cannula so Sarah is getting to feed and hold her. They are hoping she'll be home in a few days. She is so stinkin cute and looks like Sarah's other buggers. Welcome to the family little Sa-Bannah! (as her older sister Jessica calls her)

and just cuz I love him so...here's my crazy climbing under the end table. For what? you ask...
a little spot of light shining in from the blinds onto the carpet that he just HAD to touch. Love that do.

Tubby Time

2010-05-13T20:56:00.004-07:00

How did we go from little boy bath...to big boy bath, which really he has already out grown.
I cant believe our baby will be a year at the end of June. He is growing up WAY too fast! He is too much fun right now at this age. Alan has a tubby time routine he does with Chad every night. They go upstairs together and fill up the ducky for bath time and then walk into his nursery to get undressed. I guess Alan always grabs Chad's foot and uses it to turn on the light in his room as they walk in so now Chad knows that as soon as they turn the hall into this doorway he puts his leg straight and pushes the light with his toes. Smart bugger. We stinkin love him.

Here are just a few more from yesterday. Chad loves Sesame Street in the morning. I always turn it on during cereal time and he just stares at the TV.

Mother's Day

2010-05-10T09:28:00.004-07:00

We all have different reasons for celebrating Mother's Day and reasons why we feel like Mother's ourselves, but for me Mother's Day this year was not a day to honor myself but a day to honor our son because this moment here... gave me the honor of being his mom and the title of "Mother" and let me tell you..there's no better job.

Yesterday morning I arrived home from work around 7:30am (yes. I got a job but that's a whole other post for another day) to find flowers downstairs. I could hear Alan in Chad's nursery feeding him his morning bottle and as I walked up the stairs I noticed a sign on the upstairs bedroom door cut out of red construction paper in a heart shape that said "Do not enter! Happy Mother's Day!" Only my awesome husband. After sleeping for awhile I came downstairs to find Alan and Chad outside BBQing for dinner. Alan made BBQed ribs and potato's with rice and rolls. Yum. We also had Kim (MIL) over to celebrate because that woman deserves a day of celebration for raising an amazing son and helping take care of Chad while I work. Even though I complain all the time to Alan about wanting to be home with Chad all day everyday, there is nothing like leaving your baby with someone and knowing he is safe and looked after as well as you could do yourself. (Thanks Kim!) We had a delicious dinner and hung around. After I put Chad down to sleep in his crib Alan told me my appointment was ready and opened the door to the room upstairs that he transformed into a massage place, candles and everything. (TMI? Sorry.) Awesome husband, Awesome Mother's Day. Thanks Daddy. My card even had Chad scribbles on it. Loved it.

But Mother's Day, most importantly, is a day to celebrate the one woman in my life who deserves it more than anything. My mom. There are no words to explain the love I have for this woman and the example she is to me. Alan and I joke around because whenever I have something I cant decide on Ill say something like "Let me think about it some more" and he'll respond with "Or call your mom" and we laugh. My mom would give anything in the world to make sure her children are provided for and taken care of. She is such a strong example of selflessness and love. I know every child thinks they have the best mom in the world but really I do. I am so blessed to be apart of my family here on earth. My hope is to one day be just half the mom she is to me with Chad.

Happy Mothers Day!

For Grandma

2010-04-19T21:24:00.004-07:00

Standing all by himself

Being silly tonight

Chad's Buddies

2010-04-14T19:21:00.004-07:00

Alan was outside BBQing tonight and we had the curtain open to the dogs outside. Chad crawled right over to the door and started talking to the dogs and wouldnt stop! He loved them!

Disclaimer: Sorry about...#1 the dirty window (it doesnt stay clean with two dogs), and #2 the sideways video (I dont know how to change it)

Some more...

2010-04-13T21:27:00.003-07:00

Since I dont have much to post about...here's MORE CHAD! :) Since my days consist of mostly (who am I kidding) ALL of him!

He now finally has his two bottom teeth in. I've been giving him people food and trying everything and Ill tell you...this kid is piiicky! He'll eat yogurt but push out the little chunks of fruit in them, he'll eat bread and crackers but wont TOUCH soft apples, pears or bananas. I tried to put them in his mouth cuz I swear once he tries it he'll like it, nope, his shoves it right back out making his gross face and gagging. He loves his sippy cup, but not to drink, to play with. He is quite a character and we love every minute of it!

Can we say Bed-head?

2010-04-09T14:56:00.001-07:00

New Toy

2010-04-08T20:54:00.003-07:00

Our child is S P O I L E D rotten.

I'm not even kidding, I swear our family room looks like the inside of the toy department at Walmart. :)

Camping!

2010-04-07T18:00:00.003-07:00

For Easter/General Conference weekend the Bennett Family decided to go camping! Grandpa, Grandma, and Maddie dog drove up to meet us and the whole family got to spend the weekend together! We had so much fun we are planning to do it again next year!

There were trails to hike, a river to throw rocks in, and LOTS of playing areas for the kiddies! We had three cabins and outside each cabin a tent. Mommies and babies slept inside and daddies and big babies slept in the tent. On Saturday we had an Easter Egg hunt and Sunday the Easter bunny surprised us even while we were camping! I did manage to fry mine and Chad's face, yeah I know, mother of the year award. Next year I won't just bring sunscreen, I will actually use it! :)

Here are some pictures:

Some of the kiddies

Chad getting his eggs!Easter Egg Hunt
Grandma reading her Easter Story

Big Boy!Loved his Eggs!
Porter tree climbing

Poor sunburned face!

More swimming and Cole/Jess Bday!

2010-03-28T22:57:00.005-07:00

Cole turned 10, he had trick candles to blow out! Jesse turned 3!
Shirt from Aunt Leah that says "Little Pixie, BIG ATTITUDE!"And here are some more pics of swimming awhile back at Sarah'sIsaac and his shark!Chad loves the waterfall
Cole and Aunt Leah Jessica and BriannaTired BrockColey with his broken arm :(Daddy and ChadImi going down the slide!

Happy Early Easter!

2010-03-28T15:28:00.004-07:00

Happy Easter!

Daddy taught Chad a new trick last week!

(P.S. If you listen closely while he's wiggling in the video you can hear his milk sloshing around in his tummy, hence why Alan and I keep laughing.)

Busy Bee

2010-03-20T14:53:00.006-07:00

Earlier in the month Chad started this...

And now I'm dealing with this...

And this...

Lets just say I'm not going to push walking on him. :)

Funny Story

2010-03-19T14:12:00.002-07:00

So this morning I put Chad down for a nap and got in the shower. After getting ready and Chad waking up I headed downstairs to get the diaper bag ready to leave. As I walked into the kitchen to get bottles I noticed something red on the mat, as I inspected closer I noticed it was blood and I could see a trail to the carpet. It looked like someones foot was bleeding as they walked. So my mind starts racing...is my foot bleeding? (as I check both feet)..Nope. Was this here earlier and I missed it? Nope. Is it from Chad? Nope. Obviously I start to panic thinking someone was in my house while I was in the shower and I go into survival mode. I grab Chad off the floor and the phone next to him and head outside while dialing my sisters phone number. Leah picks up and I say (as I start to break down in tears, I know...drama. Its just what happens when you are panicking and you hear a familiar voice) "Can you come over to my house?! I'm outside with Chad, there's blood in my kitchen and I don't know where it came from!" She, Carl and the boys are at my house within 2.5 seconds, Carl gets out and Leah takes Chad and Carl and I head inside to figure this mystery out.

As Carl and I are examining the crime scene, I look over my feet again, ONLY looking at the bottoms of them until Carl points to the back of my foot and says "the back of your heel is bleeding!" Yeah, nice Alice. Drama. So I thought about earlier this morning when the phone was ringing and I jumped up to find it while my big toe (which obviously needs to be cut) jabbed into the back of my foot. Funny how that didn't pop into my mind when I noticed the blood on the floor.

So, a HUGE shout out to Carl and Leah for coming to my rescue today. Seriously, I'm so blessed to have them living close to me, because I'll tell you what, this isn't the first or probably the last time I'll call her in a panic. (Remember Chad's first fever?) I SO appreciate you guys dropping everything and running over here. I owe you BIG time. Next time I'll take a better look around before I start to get crazy. Sorry.

This incident only reaffirmed why I don't watch scary movies.

Swimming!

2010-03-17T20:12:00.004-07:00

Today we went up to Aunt Sarah's house to swim! It was Chad's first time swimming and he loved it! He wanted to splash and kick non stop! We had a great time!

Swimming!

Mommy and Chad playing at the slide All done! Tired boy!Cousin Jesse luCousin CadeCousin Brock

Aloha Fest

2010-03-13T22:22:00.004-07:00

This morning I was on the phone with Leah and asked what she was doing today. She informed me that Carl informed her last night that this weekend was Aloha Fest in Tempe and they were headed out. I decided since Alan was getting off work late today anyways that I would jump in the car and tag-a-long with the Alisa family! (Thanks for letting Chad and I be the fifth wheel!) :)

Leah and Cade

Chad and Mommy

The Group eating Hawaiian BBQ and Kahlua PigMalasadas for Isaac!Happy Boy!Dinosaur hat that he wouldnt keep on!Cousin loves!
Didnt even make it to the car!

Splish Splash!

2010-03-11T21:32:00.003-07:00

Chad not wanting to get out of his bath!

(Dont worry mom, the water is normally full, its draining) :)

And it begins...

2010-03-09T17:52:00.005-07:00

Here is Chad today trying his best at crawling. He actually does a little better than this but as you can tell his little legs don't stay to well in the jammies!

And of course...some more pictures of our 8 month old. I cannot believe how time flies!

Chad's likes:

Pears! and Squash! (Our child has to eat his fruit first then goes to veggie, I know most kids are opposite, but I think he likes the sweet to bland instead of vice versa)
Screaming! (And when I say screaming, I don't mean crying, I mean like LOUD happy screams and yelling)
Rolling/Crawling everywhere! (he has places to go every second of the day!)
Spoons and his toothbrush (actually anything that goes INTO his mouth, Alan isn't a big fan of the toothbrush, he thinks its nasty BUT Chad loves it on his gums, so Chad wins) :)
The light on the fan! (everytime we walk under it, he reaches up to grab the string hanging down and pulls to turn the light on, then off...and repeat...)
Giggling! (He is SO happy and such a great boy. He laughs at almost everything, especially if you get him right under his arm.)

He is so fun right now at this age, in the morning when he wakes up I can always guarantee a smile once he sees me and it starts my day off right.

Frustration

2010-02-27T15:23:00.003-07:00

I'm a little frustrated. All through Nursing School I would hear things like, "It tough to find a job for nurses right now." and things of the sort, but I guess I was so focused in on school and seeing the end I didn't bother with those statements cuz I think I didn't actually believe it could really be so hard. I guess I should have assumed with the economy and even in preceptorship the nurses would chat about it. Yeah, its been super hard. I keep hoping something will pop up and eventually it will but I feel like I've applied for every job out there along with every other new grad. The problem is a lot of places need experience, which is where my frustration lies, how am I to get experience when no one is willing to hire a new grad right now? I know I'm one in a million people who feel this way right now with everything going on with this economy, health care related or not, and it totally sucks.

So in the meantime I will continue my search, and get certified for ACLS, BLS and PALS to help in building my resume...maybe some of those will help me stand out among the million other nurses searching?

But MOST importantly, I will continue to enjoy my free time with my ever growing 8 month old and being able to spend this time with him. There's nothing better in the world.

Guess what?! More Chad....

2010-02-22T19:45:00.004-07:00

I can see my mom going into her study at home late tonight after my dad's in bed and praying for new posts to read from me, Megan or Lindsay since I know it's the highlight of her day....so here you go mom...more pictures of your grandson tonight for you! :)

He likes the light :)

I had a Doc appt today so Sarah watched Chad for me, and on Mondays she watches Leahs boys so I offered to drive them home and this is what happened!

Graham Crackers at Aunt Sarahs! (wearing Jesse's bib)
Loves his tongue!
Tired Valentines!
Wanted to play with the bag!

Cade's 5th Birthday Party

2010-02-22T19:02:00.004-07:00

Cade turned 5 on the 13th and Carl and Leah threw him a transformer birthday party! We had a blast!

Birthday Boy!Daddy and Chad
Transformer PinataCupcakes!Bounce House

Some pictures from this week

2010-02-11T21:47:00.004-07:00

Today consisted of sleeping all day long thanks to my mother in law coming over to watch Chad. Yesterday I had my wisdom tooth pulled out, no more like, drilled out and I wasnt doing to well last night or today but def from all my rest I feel much better tonight, thank goodness! Thanks Kim!

Here are some recent shots of Chad:

New favorite photo

2010-02-06T00:07:00.002-07:00

I want to eat him right up.

Trying...

2010-02-03T23:40:00.003-07:00

Chad has decided to try getting up on his hands and knees, this boy is growing so fast I cant believe it! He pulls himself on all fours and rocks back and forth, pretty soon he will be crawling all over the place! He usually will stay up longer but this video tonight was right after bath and he is ready for bed!

You'll also hear him say "da, da, da" which Alan is trying to pull off as dadda, like daddy and keeps saying "Chad said dadda for his first word!" :)

Postponed Maternity Leave

2010-01-30T11:23:00.004-07:00

So this week I've come to the conclusion that while I search high and low for a job (yeah, who'd a thought a RN position would even be hard to find) that I'm on a postponed maternity leave. I think calling it that makes me feel better, instead of just not finding a job. Since after my C/S with Chad I was back at school/clinicals in less than a week, I think its time for a maternity leave (since my child is 7 months old now). I'm SO enjoying getting things done around the house that have been on my list forever and spending quality time with Chad. His age right now is so much fun! I've also been able to hang out with family again which is LOONG over due. Yesterday I was up at Sarahs babysitting Jake and Jessi so she could go to the temple and I came across this cute thing..

AKA Hand Sanitizer which she LOVES.

Then we were off to the Docs for Chad's nurse visit to get his flu booster shot. Now, call me a wimp or whatever you'd like but I DO NOT like when he gets shots because I think its cruel when he's laying there smiling at me and then BAM! screaming! I understand that's how it goes but whenever I can pawn off this duty to Alan I do, although I also end up in the room anyways. Yesterday was just one shot so he puckered and then it was over, no screaming, what a good boy. The nurse was SUPER fast too, which I obviously liked.

Next, we stopped by Leah's on the way home because she was off early from school since it was Parent Teacher conferences this week. We came across this cutie wearing his Uncles hat.

Next week I'm planning a trip to Sarahs again to help her sort through her closets, I know, a nice sister but I figure since I'm not doing anything and she's 6 months pregnant and all, I could help out... :)

4 Years

2010-01-28T22:18:00.003-07:00

Today marked our 4 year Anniversary! Now when I say 4 years, I mean 4 years married which actually seems like nothing compared to our history. We met in junior high and started "dating" my sophomore year of high school. We were in the same group of friends and looking back to those high school days I honestly can't believe how far we've come. After high school ended I stayed in California and went to college for a year and found that California was not where I needed to be, so I packed up my stuff and left family and friends, including Alan, and moved out to Arizona to live with my sister and her husband. That choice was one of the best choices I've made and what lead us to where we are today. I moved in August 2002, Alan decided he was ready to be baptized and in Dec 2002 he was baptized. In Jan 2003 Alan packed up and left everyone in California to move to a little studio apartment out here in Arizona where I was living with my sister and the rest is history. We were married 4 years ago today in the Newport Beach Temple. We have know each other for half our lives and in that time we have made memories that only us can share and ones we'll never forget. As we visited California this past weekend we were sitting on my parents living room couch and thinking back to when Alan would come over and tutor me in Math on that same couch and now our son was there rolling around with us. (which is actually funny because the last thing Alan worried about in high school was actual school work...) :) It's so amazing how things work out and how Heavenly Father puts things in our path to guide us to the decisions we make that lead us in the right direction even though at times we can't understand why. I'm so blessed to have Alan as my husband and I'm so grateful for him being part of my life because there is no one in this world other than him that I would want to make those memories with and share eternity! Happy Anniversary Love! I love you!

The 4th year gift is flowers and fruit so Alan made chocolate covered strawberries!

It's Official!

2010-01-23T00:26:00.003-07:00

Took my NCLEX (Boards) test on Tuesday and found out I passed on Wednesday!

Yeah! School is FINALLY over and I'm officially an RN!

Haircut!

2010-01-14T20:16:00.004-07:00

So for awhile now the back of Chad's hair has been bugging me. He was born with a lot in back but as he laid on it, it got less and less except for the very bottom of the back. He also had what Alan calls the "George Castansa" comb over. Alan and I borrowed Leah's clippers and were SUPER temped to try to cut/buzz his hair, but I know how that ends up...no hair. So instead we took Chad to great clips and he got his FIRST big boy hair cut and I love the end result! No more George Castansa and less hair in the back! He looks like a BIG BOY! The Aftermath

I also wanted to post these funny pics, he thinks it SO important to suck on everything he can get close to his mouth! Even if it means his swing tray or his pulled down mobile!

Chad's new toy!

2010-01-06T18:29:00.003-07:00

Sorry it's sideways..A couple months ago Alan set this up and Chad was still too small and couldn't touch the ground so we put it away until last night, now he's on the second height setting already! Time flies and he absolutely LOVES jumping!

Thanks Josh and Chris!

Just an Update of December

2010-01-05T16:50:00.005-07:00

I feel like the month of December came and went like a whirlwind, in fact we haven't been to our ward in 4 weeks due to Polar Express, Baby Blessings, and another brother being called to Bishop. We have had the opportunity to see our families wards which has been fun to watch everyone serve in their callings. I thought since I've lacked on my December postings I would update with just a few pictures.

Alan's brother came to AZ to visitTell me our son doesn't love our bed?

Christmas Temple Lights

Christmas

Now just to get through January and the Boards and then to find a JOB! :)

Tradition

2009-12-23T23:17:00.003-07:00

When Alan and I were engaged we bought a house together to be built that was supposed to finish around the time we were getting married. Of course the house finished early, before we got married, so instead of the house sitting Alan moved in since he was living in his apartment paying rent. When Christmas time came around Alan and I got our first Christmas tree in "our" house and bought our first ornament together and somehow a tradition was born with us and each year since then we've bought one special ornament that reminds us of something we always want to remember for that year.

2005-Our first Christmas in "our" home!

2006-By the time our second Christmas came around we had already sold and bought a new home and move in, unfortunately our two Labs got out the side gate and were hit by a car. Our family knew how important and missed our pups were and pulled money together to get us our current puppy Luke. We got this ornament to remind us of the love our family holds for one another.2007-We had the opportunity to travel around Europe to Germany, Austria, Italy, Paris and London and we bought this ornament in our most favorite place. Our plan is to retire there one day. :) Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Germany
2008-Before Nursing School started we took a Cruise to Alaska and Canada, which was my first cruise.

2009-All the ornaments are special and carry memories but this years is the best, our son's ornament, my favorite year of all.

Polar Express

2009-12-21T23:36:00.004-07:00

We headed out this weekend for a Bennett family trip to Flagstaff, AZ to ride the Polar Express! We had such a great time and it was so fun playing in the snow!

Pics are not in order, takes to long...sorry :(

Chad and his bell from Santa Chad and Daddy waiting to board the trainGrandpa and GrandmaChad and his snowman
Cole, Alan and Hyrum throwing snowballs

Grandma and Chad

Snuggle Bug
Daddy and ChadMommy and Chad

Getting ready to leave! Cousin's Imi and Chad Cousin's Ava and ChadA little over half of Chad's cousinsWaiting for the train!The Family (minus Carl)

Spoooooky

2009-12-17T16:18:00.003-07:00

Instead of studying for the Boards like I should be doing, I hung out with my nephews all day and this is why....Isaac is Spooooooky! Gotta love them!

Pinning

2009-12-10T20:28:00.003-07:00

Last night was my Nursing Graduation, or Pinning. It was so awesome to finally be done with school and feel like Ive accomplished my goal (still need to pass the boards though!) Here are some pics from last night:

Some of the girls!

My Turn!

After being PinnedThe Family

Me and my boys :)
After the ceremony we went to Claim Jumpers as a family and ate dinner to celebrate! Thanks Mom and Dad, and thanks family for coming out to support me on my big night!

Couldnt have done it without you!

Christmas Tree Time!

2009-12-03T16:29:00.004-07:00

Last night Chad and I met Alan for dinner, got our hot chocolate and headed to Lowes for our Christmas tree! Because I work the next three nights Alan so graciously stayed up to decorate the tree with me till 1:30am and then went to work at 6am, thanks daddy! :)
Yeah for Christmas Time! and Christmas Trees!

Rice Cereal

2009-12-03T16:20:00.002-07:00

Yeah, Chad isnt a big fan but he is doing better now, practice makes perfect!

Poor guy

2009-11-26T00:00:00.001-07:00

This is what happens when Dad is cleaning the house and Mom is trying to apply for jobs. Maybe its time to put Chad to bed?

Big Roller!

2009-11-19T14:43:00.002-07:00

Big boy doing a complete roll, dont mind the drool!

Good News!

2009-11-16T18:12:00.001-07:00

I passed my final with a 96%!

I can't believe its over!

Will you marry me?

2009-11-14T10:41:00.002-07:00

This morning I woke up to a pic message from Alan with this picture and a text under it that said "Morning! Will you marry me? 143"

When Alan proposed their was a rainbow in the sky, he says that's how he knew it was the right time and day and he was doing what he was supposed to be doing.

Coincidentally, the day we left the hospital with our new baby Chad and drove home there was also a rainbow in the sky, believe it or not. So rainbows around our home are pretty special.

On another note, my LAST final is Monday. Alan's mom took Chad all day yesterday so I could study and she is again tomorrow after church (Thanks Kim!). I am having serious anxiety about passing this test, not cuz I think its impossible just cuz I feel like so much is riding on it. I mean I will be DONE with Nursing School if I can get past this final Monday. I really wish today was Tuesday and I was done and passed already! :) Of course I still have preceptorship till Dec (which I got at Gateway in OB...YEAH!) and then I officially graduate on Dec 9 and after that's over I have to take the Boards to actually work and get a license but at least NO MORE SCHOOL, and tests and silly projects and notecards, man, I hate notecards.

So contingent on me passing this Monday, this was a conversation between Alan and I last night:

Me: So...you know what I want for graduation?

Alan: Nope, but I can only imagine.

Me: I want a gift certificate to get my hair done, a gift certificate to get my nails done, a gift certificate to get my eyebrows done...(being that Ive slacked on these areas due to my business and I just want to feel human again)

Alan: Oh really, how about I just give you the credit card?

Yep, that will work for me! Thanks husband! :)

Halloween

2009-11-03T10:31:00.004-07:00

On Thursday night we carved our pumpkins! (Mine is the ghost and Alan's is the Jack-o-latern with CHAD in the mouth and Chad's is the little one!)

On Saturday night we went up to Aunt Sarahs for yummy potato soup and homemade root beer and our traditional trick or treating!

Our Skeleton!

The grandchildren and Grandma (minus Logan-who wasnt there yet, and Ava who is due any minute!) Here is Chad and Mommy on Sunday after Halloween!

26

2009-10-28T16:20:00.004-07:00

Yep, as of today I'm officially 26 years old. I dont know when that happened but it definetly did! You know your grown up when your birthday consists of school and notecards/studying! Tomorrow Alan, Chad, and I are going to carve our pumpkins, we were going to go to Schnepf Farms but Chad has a running nose as of last night so we are going to hang at home. Chad gave me my birthday present by FINALLY allowing me to video him laughing since he always stops and stares at the camera once I go get it, but not today! Thanks Chad! :)

Giggles

2009-10-18T15:44:00.003-07:00

I know my blog has become Chads Blog, I promise when I have something else exciting to write about I will, but for now...more Chad (my favorite thing) and a disclaimer: Chad does own clothes, not just Pajamas :)

My Inspiration-BIG smiles!

2009-10-16T16:11:00.004-07:00

I always thought I loved the baby baby stage, you know, where babies are super small, straight from mom and newborn and cuddly. Im not saying I dont now but Chad's age right now is so much fun! He is smiling and laughing at us and makes the best little noises and sounds while he is "talking" to us, he is drooling all over the place, he exercises his legs like none other with his kicks and he loves to grab his blanket and clothes and bring them up to his mouth to eat (like some of his cousins, so I guess he'll fit right in) :) I'm enjoying him so much right now I cant even imagine what it will be like when he starts talking and walking...

By the way...my house is in chaos right now, Alan got to use the cleaning truck from work and spent 12 hours yesterday cleaning our carpet, air ducts, tile, granite, etc. The house is SUPER clean but that means everything has to be off the floor and on the couches and beds. I feel like we just moved in and I'm unpacking! Thanks Daddy for your hard work yesterday to make sure our house is germ free for Baby Chad :)

School

2009-10-16T14:40:00.002-07:00

Is it too much to ask for these next 3 1/2 weeks to be over and finished already?

Wish I could tele-port to Nov 17th.

Guess what?! More CHAD!

2009-10-09T13:53:00.006-07:00

I'm sure everyone would like a post of something other than Chad but I really dont have much going on besides him and Nursing School, and who wants to talk about Nursing School? Not me! Only 5 weeks left and a final and I'm FINISHED! FINALLY! We are doing our clinical rotations in ICU right now and thats been pretty awesome otherwise....nothing to report.

So heres Chad again! Chad HATES tummy time, its pretty funny. Before when Id put him down on his tummy he would start crying within a minute and now he does better, he'll get to 5 minutes but instead of crying he puts his head down and lays there. Smart boy.

We start with holding our head up way high! Then, in give or take 5 minutes, we get tired. Done.
Here is a video of him starting to roll over, he actually gets a little further than this video shows but it was the best he would do while I was filming.

For Grandma-Your Boy

2009-09-23T15:33:00.002-07:00

Last week I caught Chad on a good night and got 2 cute little giggles out of him, but since then I can only get these little giggles...but still, they are cute! :)