Just One Place

It's been a long time!

2011-12-07T21:28:00.001-07:00

It's been way too long since we've had a blog post. Here's a little family update.

Phoenix is 3 years old and full of spunk. He talks constantly and has quite a witty sense of humor. His latest, most often repeated phrase is "I kidding". He got a hair cut today and Mommy got it cut short! His curls are almost gone. I'm pretty sure they'll grow back. We got him seated in the chair and the stylist started to brush his hair when he started yelling "I'n a boy! I'n a boy!" I translated for him and he settled down, I guess he just wanted to make sure he was getting a boy hair cut.

Mark continues to work at AutoZone and enjoys it. He comes home and works on our house and does all the things I was unable to accomplish during the day. What a great guy!

Cougar is Cougar, what can I say? He's in first grade and is reading like a maniac. It's so fun to see him actually reading and enjoying it! He's getting tall, he's almost up to my shoulder! He's got lots of friends at school and in our new ward. It's fun to see him confidently interacting with kids his own age. He reminds me a lot of David, my little brother.

There's no picture of me, I'm always behind the camera. I'm 33 weeks along with our third little one. I'm getting really anxious to meet this little person that is bruising my insides. I'm feeling good and going strong!

Spiderman is a Jedi Knight

2011-03-31T16:18:00.003-06:00

Cougar convinced me to get down the dress up box today. Boy, did they have fun.

Cougar asked me to take this picture so that it would look like a storm trooper had walked in our house. How many storm troopers have cute little toes poking out of their boots?
We have an abundance of lightsabers at our house. They come out to play mulitple times a day. This picture was taken right off our front porch. You can be jealous of our view. :)
Phoenix was so excited to see this Spiderman costume, he about jumped out of his skin before we could get it on him. We had to go show Daddy at work. Okay, we didn't have to, but it was a fun reason to get out of the house. In the car Phoenix kept saying "Ee! I Spy!" ("See I'm Spiderman!")

I'm so glad when Daddy comes home

2011-03-25T13:17:00.003-06:00

Mark's been gone on a little business trip to Las Vegas the past couple days. He's back now, and I'm not the only one who missed him.

By the way, Phoenix is out of his crib and now sleeps in a toddler bed. I wonder how this picture would look if he was still in the crib?

Like Pulling Teeth

2011-03-14T21:21:00.004-06:00

These pictures are a little out of order, but you're tough, you can handle it. My little monkey has to do everything his big brother does and big brother was getting his picture taken. If his face isn't dirty he looks like a girl, I keep it dirty so people aren't confused. ;)
Giant gaping whole in a freckled face. Does it get more Norman Rockwell than this kid?

Cougar lost his first tooth last night by tying a piece of floss to his tooth and the other end to the bullet of a nerf gun. Then he shot the nerf gun. It came out on the first try and he was so excited about it! My little brother pulled a tooth out this way and Cougar thought it was the greatest idea ever. Of course, he had to pull his out just like David did, he does everything David does. Today, the second tooth was hanging by a thread, but it was STUBBORN. We made several tries at pulling it out.

We tied it to Nike, our dog and made her run.

Cougar tried the trusty Nerf gun again.

We tried to get Phoenix to run while holding the string, that didn't work. (He hates clothes. I hate the fight dressing him causes, so he's naked most of the time, deal with it.)

Cougar tried running while Daddy held the string. This pulled it enough to make it bleed. The blood freaked him out a little bit and he let me pull it out. Poor little guy was just getting so frustrated he was on the verge of tears. We kept telling him, "It doesn't have to come out tonight. We can stop if you want, this is all up to you." He would have none of it. He was bound and determined that dang tooth was going to come out tonight!

Dinner

2011-02-16T17:19:00.003-07:00

How do you know it's almost dinner time at our house? Daddy's not home, yet. Phoenix can be found IN the snack cupboard. Cougar is grunting, stomping and pouting all around the house. And last, but not least, Mommy is sneaking chocolate of some kind between chopping, mixing and stirring. :)

For Mom

2011-01-13T16:01:00.003-07:00

My mom got this for Phoenix for Christmas. We finally broke it out the other day when I decided the floor needed to be mopped. We don't have a bathtub, Phoenix is desperate for one. It wasn't long until somebody left a surprise in his diaper. We had to change the diaper, dump the water, sanitize everything and refill. It's not uncommon now to hear him ask in his sweetest voice, "Mommy, wawa, peas?" I am especially grateful for the drain in the middle of my kitchen floor. :)

Watch closely and you'll see that he's wearing his socks still.

Merry Christmas!

2010-12-21T12:05:00.005-07:00

Cougar and Action would like to wish you and yours a very merry Christmas!

It's All Fun and Games....

2010-12-13T12:11:00.002-07:00

Stuck

2010-10-28T11:21:00.003-06:00

Phoenix has developed the nasty habit of pulling his shoulders and arms out of his car seat straps while we are driving. I adjusted the entire car seat and finally got it to where he couldn't get out. We had to drive for 20 minutes with him yelling "Mommy! I GUH! I GUH!" Before he realized that I didn't care he was stuck and wasn't going to help. He tends to be a determined little guy, I wouldn't be surprised if he found another way out in a little while. :)

Shining Mom Moment

2010-05-25T18:42:00.002-06:00

Cougar is outside playing a little t-ball with the neighbor boy, Junior, who's about 6. Junior hit the ball and Cougar was very complimentary "Wow! What a good hit!" Cougar's turn. He hits the tee and the ball barely goes anywhere. Junior says "Whoa, that was stupid." (Hey rude kid!) Cougar just laughed and said "I can't say that, but it was lame, I'll try again." He's not allowed to say stupid and all the thousands of times I've said "Use NICE words" may have sunk in!

I'm Sad.

2010-05-19T07:36:00.002-06:00

Our big galoof, Theron has died. He was a big, lurpy, loving yellow lab and I'm going to miss him. We've had him since the first year of our marriage and I thought he had several more good years in him. Theron was a great dog, so willing to please. He loved standing next to me to get his ears scratched and his chest thumped. He helped Mark and I figure out our parenting styles and how to work with each other before we had kids to mess up on. He was the first pet we picked out together. He was a good pick. Goodbye, Friend.

The Injury

2010-05-17T15:29:00.004-06:00

As you may know. Phoenix broke his leg last Monday. I didn't see what happened, but Cougar says he tripped and landed on Phoe-Phoe's legs. Sounds credible to me. He was miserable in his splint, but after they put on the cast on Friday, he's been slowing learning how to be a terror again.

This cast was actually replaced today. I took him back in because the cast was scraping his foot, causing a blister between his toes, and bruising his chubby thigh. Our doctor took one look at it and said "Let's put a new one on." He couldn't believe how worn the thing was after just a few short days. He put on the same color cast, but it extends past his toes and has more room in the foot to avoid all the previous problems.

Two crazy boys sitting on the bathroom counter. (Yes, I am still trying to train both my potty trained boys to put the seat down...)

If I had a girl, she would probably look a little like this. :)

Preschool Graduation!

2010-05-17T15:16:00.003-06:00

Cougar had his preschool graduation last week. It's so strange for me to think that he is TOO BIG for preschool. It's on to kindergarten for him now. He's ready and excited. If we can only make it through the summer.

Here he is with his preschool friends putting on a play of the 5 little pigs. (Very similar to the 3 little pigs only with extra kids.)

A-too-ta-tah. A-too-ta-tah. A-too-ta-tay. (something like that) A very classic and very silly song and dance.

Miss Marilyn. This woman supplied sanity for me 3 times a week. She has taught Cougar (and me) so much. We're going to miss her!

Child Slavery

2010-05-17T07:22:00.001-06:00

Cougar: "Mommy, what are slaves?"

Me: "Slaves are people who are forced to do hard work."

Cougar: "Oh, like me."

What have we been up to?

2010-04-22T10:00:00.002-06:00

Soccer has started! What? That's the wrong kid? Oh right. Phoenix thinks he's big.

Cougar's just happy to be outside running around. He loves soccer.

Mark fixed the brakes on my car. Lots of fun for him. He got help from Phoenix who, like I said before, thinks he's big.

I made my first sewing project since I strained my back sewing back in October (I am paying for it. I hurt!) I made this super fancy backseat organizer. If you don't look closely you won't see the puckered seams and uneven lines. I already love it. My favorite part is the colored pencil holder pockets. I used those Crayola Twistables so there's no need for sharpening back there. Hopefully, this will help in my attempt to keep our car cleaner.

April Fool's Day

2010-04-02T08:35:00.003-06:00

I like this day, but for some reason I can never remember it! I've been wanting to try to make yucky fake food desserts, but never remember. Cougar however looks forward to April Fool's Day like it's Christmas. I think I have a prankster on my hands. My favorite trick he tried yesterday was when he said "Mom! There's a enchilada on your shoulder" I gave the appropriate "Eww! Gross! (slight freak out)" response. Come to find out he didn't mean I had a large, cheesy, delicious mexican dish on my person, but a big, creepy, hairy spider. Ha! He'd gotten enchilada and tarantula mixed up!

For show and tell at preschool he was supposed to bring something to trick his class. He chose to take some gross pretend body parts (thanks Mom!). He had a tongue, hand, foot and eyeball. When it was his turn to show, he told his class he pulled them off his little brother! I'm going to have to watch my back as he gets bigger!

A Milestone.

2010-03-31T15:23:00.002-06:00

We as a family have reached a milestone. I just heard my first "Mom! He's got more than me!" I'm so grateful that we've reached this point.

Future Doctor?

2010-03-18T16:48:00.002-06:00

Cougar: "We have three lungs. One for breathing, one for drinks and one for food. Did you know that, Mom?"

Me: "No, I didn't"

Cougar: "That's because you don't know a lot about our bodies, and I do."

Me: "oh"

Safe Kids Fair

2010-02-27T19:26:00.007-07:00

This weekend was the annual Safe Kids Fair. We got to go all together as a family. Mark even got to come. He had a day off and it was amazing. We also met my sister Heidi and her family. Here are a few highlights.

Reptiles! Cougar is holding a very pretty corn snake. They also had a 140 pound Burmese python and a few other scaly critters. Way cool!

The whole reason we went! Batman! We got a quick visit with the Caped Crusader himself! Cougar loved it! You may not be able to tell, but Cougar is wearing a Batman hat and shirt as well as Batman socks and shoes. Batman even signed Cougar's shirt. According to Cougar it was well worth Daddy's standing in line for 45 minutes.

STAR WARS!

A giant pickle!

STAR WARS AGAIN!

STAR WARS YET AGAIN!

(Cougar kept going back, he's a little obsessed with Star Wars. Darth Vader was supposed to be there, but I guess he was sick. Poor, Darth Vader!)

The boys got to climb inside a helicopter and pretend to drive it! So fun!

Sparky the Fire Dog.

Overall, it was a fun day, though it did get crazier and crazier. It was just so enjoyable to be together.

Problem Solver

2010-02-26T08:44:00.003-07:00

As Cougar and I read our scriptures this morning we talked about the Tree of Life from Lehi's vision. We talked about how eating the fruit brought joy. How the people in the great and spacious building were wicked and unhappy. Cougar had a question. "Why don't they just throw the fruit to the people in the building? Then everyone can be happy!"

Samuel the Lamanite

2010-02-08T21:25:00.002-07:00

For family night tonight we read the story of Samuel the Lamanite. Then Cougar got to dress up and "cry repentance" to us while standing on the cabinet behind our couch. Mark and I yelled an him to get out of our city. Then we shot at him with Nerf guns. It was lots of fun.

Exercise

2010-01-23T11:28:00.001-07:00

Cougar said while bouncing on his hopper ball thing.

"Mom! I'm burning a lot of allergies!"

For Dad.*

2010-01-06T14:33:00.003-07:00

Cougar said to me today "Whoa Mom! The inside of my marshmallow is sticky!"

*My dad said to me the other day "Three words. Blog Up Date" There you go, Dad. It's updated.

A Rhyme.

2009-11-24T11:50:00.001-07:00

Cougar: "Mom, what is a rhyme?"

Me: "You know what a rhyme is. It's two words that sound the same."

Cougar: "Oh! I know a new rhyme! Thanksgiving! Party! That rhymes!"

Me: "Yes, yes it does."

Toilet.

2009-11-20T23:07:00.003-07:00

I have found it very hard to train Cougar to close the bathroom door behind him when he's done. He just can't be bothered with something as time consuming as shutting a door! So I find myself yelling "Phoenix! No! No toilets!" quite frequently while running to try and stop him before he gets his hands in the water. It came as a surprise today when roles were reversed.

I was scrubbing the toilet. (I know, Yay for me!) When in toddles Phoenix. He looks at me. He looks at the toilet. He looks back at me and shakes his head in a very silent, but understandable "Mommy, no, no, no." Then wobbly he turns around and heads back out of the bathroom.

Commercials

2009-11-07T09:51:00.002-07:00

Cougar was watching some obnoxious commercial and we had the following conversation.

Cougar: "Why do they try to get us to buy their christmas stuff?"

Me: "Because they'll make lots of money if they can get people to buy their junk."

Cougar: "Mom! It's not junk. If it was junk it would have dirt on it."

I can't tell you how many different times he's quoted commercials at me. He watches Qubo and they tend to have the infomercial type commercials. He's told me all about Snuggies, Hollywood Bumpits and the Perfect Brownie Pan. If you no idea what I just said then, lucky you. Time to turn off the TV and read some books. Books never have commercial interruptions. :)

C-O-R-N-B-E-L-L-Y-S

2009-10-29T14:41:00.005-06:00

For those of you that didn't know I've been working at Cornbelly's (the corn maze at Thanksgiving Point) it's been lots of fun and a little while ago we went and used some of the free tickets I was given (gotta love free!)

Here they are, ready for an adventure filled day!

The Duck Races! Cougar loved this! You pumped the handle and sent your little duckie down a rain gutter type contraption. I love that he's got his tongue sticking out.

Here are my boys practicing their "cowboy skills". Wait, scratch that. Mark's practicing his "cowboy skills", Cougar's practicing his "cow" skills and Phoenix is practicing his "what-the-heck-is-my-brother-doing-now?" skills. (Despite the look on his face in this picture Cougar was actually enjoying himself.)

Ahh, The Jumping Pillows. Everyone loved them. Even Mommy. Yep I did these, too. These are the attraction I get to look at the whole time I'm working. I had been dying to try them. When I grow up, I'm gonna have one in my backyard. It'll be awesome!

Cougar just jumped on this pedal cart and started racing around the track without any instruction or encouragement. It was one of the moments when I wonder what happened to my tiny baby and how he was replaced with this KID without my noticing?

These pedal karts were even better than the others. You steer with your feet. I don't know what my problem was but I had a really hard time at first. I'm going to say it's because I had the baby and couldn't get my balance right. I could not get going, or steer or avoid crashing into straw bales. The sweet worker girl there could not help laughing at me. I finally passed the baby on to Mark, who was pedaling circles around me, literally and was able to make a few laps after that. So cool! I want one of these!

Waiting for the pig races to start. In the background here you can see "The Creature" which is actually really cool and hard to fully explain. You walk inside and it's like you're walking inside well, a giant inflatable lizard. It's really dark and you wind your way down the throat around the heart (which you can hear beating), more twists and turns and you're on the outside again. Cougar wasn't brave enough to try it on this trip, but he was fascinated by the outside and could hardly take his eyes away from it. We have since been back and he found the guts to go inside. The first time piggyback on Daddy. The second time just holding Daddy's hand. I'm pretty impressed that he did it considering I was holding Daddy's hand, too, knew what to expect and was still slightly freaked out.

The pig races! If you look in the bottom left corner you can see the little piggies running. I loved this. They really did run just about as fast as they could around that little track. I fully appreciated the amount of animal training that went into this little attraction when they brought out the pygmy goats (get it? PIG-MY ha ha) for a race. I could never in a million years get my not-so-smart-weed-eaters to run like that.

Quite possibly, even more entertaining than the pig races was Budrow! This is our home teacher pretending to be the Cornbelly's pig farming idiot. His real name is not Budrow, but I may start calling him Brother Budrow, just because.

One Year Old

2009-10-29T14:32:00.003-06:00

Phoenix had a birthday! (On the 6th, I know I'm behind) I made his cake. It was kind of crammed into a whole lot of other things I had to do I'm quite impressed it turned out so nicely.

He loved it. After digging in for a little while he started just picking off the M&Ms.

Oh My!

2009-09-23T13:14:00.003-06:00

Phoenix has taken four steps unassisted. He's getting braver everyday. How can something fill me with joy and sadness at the same time? Why does it have to go so fast? Somebody find me a pause button!!

Ahhh...

2009-09-08T21:19:00.003-06:00

Preschool has officially started and it also happens to be right around Phoenix's afternoon naptime. Oh, the house is so quiet and peaceful. This is going to be good.

On another note. Cougar had another soccer game today and scored 7 goals!! I'm so proud of him. He finally understands what he's supposed to be doing. Before he would run and fall down on purpose, but not any more. He chased that ball like it was made of gold. Fantastic!

I Am Officially A Soccer Mom.

2009-09-01T22:16:00.004-06:00

And I love it! Cougar had his first soccer game today. We've been to two practices already. His first practice was on Tuesday around 5pm. I woke up to the pitter patter of little feet (on my face) before 7am. "Come on, Mom. We're gonna be late for practice!" It sure was a long day.

Here's Phoenix at Cougar's practice. He loves to chase the balls and crawl around in the grass. Look at those blue eyes. He's gonna be a heart breaker!

I don't know much about soccer, so I'm calling this a kick off. Cougar's the little orange guy with white shoes (kicking the ball). His team is the Tigers. I've heard a lot of "Go Tigers!" from Cougie while he's playing lately. They played the Cougars. I'm sure people thought I was nuts with my yelling "Go Cougar! Wahoo Tigers!"

He scored a goal during the game and has never been so proud. He says "I got a score!" Grandma and Grandpa Davis were able to come and watch his game. He was excited about that, too. He tends to really like it when people cheer for him. He's gonna be a glory hound, I know it. After the game the first thing he wanted to do was call my little sister Nikki who plays for Timpview's JV team. She was actually playing a game so gave Grandma a message. He keeps asking when Nikki's going to come watch him, so Nikki, let us know. :)

What Classic Should I Read?

2009-08-11T22:06:00.003-06:00

I've been reading a lot lately and amazingly enough, I stay awake! It might have something to do with the fact that I'm not pregnant and both children have been sleeping through the night for several months now. I've been thinking that I haven't read "the classics". I've been reading a lot of 'grown up' books and am enjoying them. (I usually have stuck with teen fiction). My reading tastes seem to have matured and I want to read a few classics, but don't know where to start. What are some of your favorites? I'm thinking Jane Austen something, but I've also got (found them at DI, woot woot) Jane Eyre, Wuthering Heights, Little Women, The Invisible Man. I also have access to a great library, not amazing like you Salt Lake County folks. So, tell me. Leave a comment. What do you suggest I start with? I know a lot of readers, read my blog so I expect to hear from you. Help me fall in love with a good book! Thanks!

Too Much Fun, No Time To Blog.

2009-08-10T09:15:00.004-06:00

We've been going on trip after trip and have loved it, but haven't had much time for anything else. Maybe I'll completely update at some point, probably not, but we'll see. Until then, maybe this will give you the Davis fix you need. We're getting ready to head back out again. I feel like I've had just enough time to do laundry. This is just about the last trip we've got planned. Lava Hot Springs, here we come.

In Green River, eating melon, Phoenix's new favorite food.

In case you can't tell, my boys and Lake Powell get along just fine. In fact they are already life long friends. What a blast! Sorry for the quick end to the video, I had to catch Phoenix who wasn't stopping. By the time I got to him he was just about up to his eyeballs in water and still crawling.

Too True

2009-07-09T08:55:00.003-06:00

A friend emailed this to me and I just had to share because I know so many of you have been there...

I asked the Lord to tell me
Why my house is such a mess.
He asked if I'd been 'computering,
And I had to answer 'yes.'

He told me to get off my fanny,
And tidy up the house.
And so I started cleaning up...
The smudges off my mouse.

I wiped and shined the topside.
That really did the trick.....
I was just admiring my good work.
I didn't mean to 'click.'

But click, I did, and oops -
I found a real absorbing site
That I got SO way into -
I was into it all night.

Nothing's changed except my mouse.
It's very, very shiny.
I guess my house will stay a mess....
While I sit here on my hiney.

You should see the other guy....

2009-06-30T23:22:00.000-06:00

The other guy was in fact a mosquito that got me while I was peacefully slumbering (dirty fighter). Got me right on the eyelid while I was snuggled up in bed. I didn't even get the satifaction to squish him during his feast. My eye has been swollen all day. It also got me in the eyebrow of my other eye, but that's not nearly as swollen. I took the max dose of benadryl about an hour ago and am now going to zonk out. I hope I can wake up before noon tomorrow....

100th Post!!

2009-06-05T08:55:00.003-06:00

I've been thinking a lot lately about what my children are teaching me and thought that with my 100th post (go me) I would record some of those things.

Through Cougar I have learned the importance of perspective. In his eyes, plain old seagulls become "Eagles!" Various flowery weeds become beautiful bouquets that must be shared. I see another plane in the sky making those cloudy tracks. He sees a shooting star and a reason to make a wish. I see potato bugs or worms or some other common crawly thing and he sees great scientific discoveries. I see me as being average, plain, not much and he sees a beautiful woman who can fix any problem, do anything, who knows the answer to every question. He sees things a totally different way. His way is better. I need to look through his eyes more often.

Phoenix is teaching me to never settle. As soon as you accomplish a goal move on to the next thing. Keep growing and progressing. There's always room for improvement. He shows me that simply being with the people that love you is enough.

Sweet!!

2009-05-13T18:01:00.001-06:00

I just put on a pair of pre-pregnancy pants and can fit into them comfortably!! Can I get a woot-woot!?

Nature Day

2009-05-04T17:02:00.003-06:00

We had the opportunity today to go to the International Peace Gardens with Heidi and her little ones for Nature Day. It was really fun and not to mention, free! I want to go back when things are actually blooming.

This was at the Swiss garden. Sweet boys! The kids really enjoyed running down the paths and picking the dandilions.

We played at a park nearby afterward, because the kids kept asking to go to the park. They didn't quite understand that the gardens were "the park". It's so nice to see that Ellie and Cougar can play nicely. Usually they see each other on Sunday evenings when they are both tired and cranky. Cougar took Phoenix on his first ride down the slide. It was going pretty well until Cougar lost control, fell over and bumped Phee-phee's head on the slide. The crying only lasted until the kids started running around and Phoenix was back to staring.

Baby Goats

2009-05-04T15:02:00.004-06:00

With the nice weather last week we took Cougar's fort outside and had a little picnic. Phoenix loved it. He is munching on a giant pretzel stick. Most picnics are ruined by ants. Ours was ruined by pregnant goats. They ran right through it trying to taste everything we had.

On Saturday we had two goats born. I let Cougar name them... Here he is carrying Green. Yes, the goat's name is Green.

SEE!! PHOENIX DOES SMILE!! He got so excited when Purple (Green's sister) walked by and bleated. There is no question that he was sent to the right family.

Serious Update

2009-03-30T16:57:00.008-06:00

Well, It's been quite a while since I've included a full update with pictures and everything, so here you go. Us in a nutshell! Hopefully, we're not too boring.

Two boys that couldn't come any cuter.

"Mom! Look what I did to Phoenix!" I came running, believe you me.

Cougar and I had a great date a while back. We went to the Safe Kids Fair. We got to meet Spiderman! It was so much fun. It's was great to spend sometime with Cougar, just the two of us. He's such a good kid. He couldn't make the hand shape Spiderman uses to shoot his webs. Right before it was our turn I help move his fingers into position and he held it there until we were done with pictures. He thought it was hilarious that Spiderman said "Cheese!"

Umm.... I don't even know what to say....

When the weather was nice a little while ago we got outside and started working on the yard. Mark and I burned weeds while the boys played. It was Phoenix's first real outside excursion. He loved it, mostly he watched Cougar or the goats or the dogs run around.

When I said we burned weeds do you think plants? Well, the definition of a weed is something that grows where it's not wanted, right? Just kidding, honey, you know I like the goatee.... I also like your eyebrows, sideburns, and armhair.

Phoenix has discovered two new loves, his highchair and graham crackers. He's always wanting to sit straight up so pulled this out to let him play while I was in the kitchen. He loves it and gives the biggest grins when you even look at him. And graham crackers are delicious and turn to mush in a slobbery mouth, need I say more?

Today, when I picked Cougar up from preschool we were running to the car in an attempt to spend as little time in the freezing, blowing, snowy, nastiness as possible, when Cougar stopped dead in his tracks, looked up to the sky and yelled as loudly as he could "GOD! IT'S SUPPOSED TO BE SPRING!" After I got control of my laughter we talked about how it's disrespectful to yell at Heavenly Father.

3 words.

2009-03-18T09:24:00.002-06:00

GIRL

SCOUT

Thanks Mikaela and Aubrie!

Note to Self...

2009-02-24T20:16:00.001-07:00

When your son is all snuggled up and going to bed without a fight, it's not a good idea to introduce him to the saying "Good night, Sleep tight, Don't let the bed bugs bite."

The League of Justice

2009-02-18T15:34:00.003-07:00

We only get two tv channels here at our lovely home. Channel 11 and 13. I can't stand to have it absolutely silent all the time, it drives me crazy. So the tv is on quite a bit. Well, channel 13 has about 5 hours of court tv everyday. I realized that it's on too much when today, Cougar said "I like Judge Alex, he's my favorite. Who's your favorite, Mom?" "I like Judge Judy" "Oh, she's good too."

Maybe all this exposure to law at an early age will inspire him to be lawyer....

Let's Talk.

2009-02-16T18:06:00.002-07:00

Cougar stayed up WAAAAY too late last night and then refused to take a nap today. The result, lots and lots of whining. I finally said to him "Why are you whining so much?" even though I already knew the answer. He replied "Let's talk about it."

"Let's talk about what?" I said.

"About my whining"

This took me by surprise. "Umm....okay, tell me why you're whining".

"Because of the pressure"

"What pressure?"

"Because of the pressure I have"

Oh what I would give to be under his pressure. I'll trade in a heartbeat.

He then went on to tell me all about how our bodies get energy from the food we eat. He's quite a little scientist, lately. I am fostering a 170 pound English Mastiff. (A really gianormous dog) It was sleeping on the floor of my parents living room. Cougar was inspecting it and I heard little things he was saying to himself like "leg, one hundred miles long." He told me he was being a scientist. "Oh, are you makings observations?" I asked. He nodded, smiling, very pleased with himself.

I have the greatest husband!

2009-02-10T11:04:00.002-07:00

Yesterday, Mark had an interview at Little Giant Ladders (pray for us) and decided to take the ENTIRE day off! He installed a garbage disposal for me! Yay! I love him! He did a few little honey-dos around the house. He did try to get out of a few of them by asking in spanish if there was anything else I needed him to do. When I looked at him blankly he said "I'll take that as a no" and walked away laughing to himself. He helped Cougar make a mailbox for his preschool valentine party. It's a rocket ship and the top flips open so you can put things inside. He's works so much it's a little weird for us to have him home. I was so grateful for an extra set of hands while trying to make dinner. I've had sick kids for over a week now. Cougar's been feeling better for a few days, and Phoenix is working on it. My nerves have been pretty seriously frazzled. Having Mark around helps fix that. Sometimes I'm not sure why because he just loves to push my buttons. Anyway, I'm rambling. I love that man!

Protect Your Children!

2009-02-04T21:16:00.002-07:00

I had an interesting experience tonight when I was leaving Little Dragons and it really made me realize that Cougar needs to know his phone number and address.

I was turning right on to Center Street in Orem (This was at 5:30 so it was very busy) when I noticed a little boy walking down the sidewalk in shorts, no coat and leading a little dog on a leash. I didn't see his mom anywhere, but I could pull over so I drove a little ways and turned around to check on him. By the time I found him again he had crossed Center Street and 4th West? (the road Orem Community Hospital is on). A lady was leading him across the street and it didn't look like they knew each other. I pulled over and asked if she was his mom and she wasn't. Well, to make a long story short we got his little blue body in my car and asked him all kinds of questions. He was four years old and headed to his brothers' basketball practice at a school a few more blocks down the road. We tried calling the number on the dog's tag and nobody answered, so we called the police. When the police arrived they figured out that he lived roughly a half mile away from where he was and that this was the second time in a month that he has gone on a walk by himself. It just scares me to death, that was basically Cougar crossing center street! I am bound and determined to teach him our address and phone number now! I was waiting until he could successfully count past 3 in the right order, but have decided that this is more important. Not that he will be walking anywhere without my knowing about it, but it's important anyway! Please make sure your children know your full name, address and phone number. Without the dog's tags it might have been hours before the police found out where this little boy belonged. Okay, I'm stepping off my soapbox.

Go Chickens!!!

2009-02-04T12:21:00.002-07:00

My chickens have started laying eggs!! So far I've gotten two of these beautiful brown babies! Nice work chickens! It sure has taken you long enough! I don't know what to make to celebrate, maybe brownies, brownies would properly honor the eggs...

Week 3

2009-02-02T10:51:00.001-07:00

Food Storage Purchase: 20lbs. White Sugar or Honey

Extra Item Purchase: Enough dish soap to last 3 months

72 Hour Kit: 1 change of clothing (pants, shirt, socks, underwear) place in ziplock bag

Family Preparation: Obtain a family utility box- Action Packer, cooler with wheels, cardboard box, etc

Spiritual Preparedness: Read Elder Bednar's article in the September 2007 Ensign; Seek Learning by Faith

Fresh Air!

2009-01-30T18:24:00.003-07:00

We took advantage of the "warm" day today. Phoenix has been so fussy today and I didn't know what to do so I decided to take him on a walk. We got all bundled up, Cougar hopped on his bike and we were gone. Heading down our country road was so nice. We are very much outside people. Nobody in our family does well cooped up for long periods of time and we've been housebound by the cold and the yucky air. How nice to stretch our legs. Phoenix loved it, too. We were outside for an hour and he didn't make a peep, just looked around with his big eyes. I have to say that the boys really look alike when both of their noses are red from cold. Now I'm super anxious to get to my mountains. I can't wait for Memorial Day when we traditionally hike to my most favorite place in the whole world, Pittsburgh Lake.

I DON'T HAVE TO DO IT ALL!!

2009-01-28T11:47:00.002-07:00

I just had this revelation, okay, really it was more like a DUH! moment. I realized that I don't have to do everything around the house. It's time for Cougar to have chores! I'm working on the laundry and had a full basket of Cougar's clothes. I was just getting ready to put them away when I decided to see if Cougar wanted to *earn* a matchbox car ( I had one left over from potty training) I said earn like it was a the most amazing, stupendous, excitingly magical word in the whole world and of course he was all ready to *earn* it right away. He put all his clothes in the proper drawers and his shirts on hangers. I thought he was too young. What was I thinking? I've got to think up a chore chart, now.

Keep on Chubbin'

2009-01-27T12:16:00.001-07:00

I weighed Phoenix yesterday. He is now 16 pounds 9 ounces. HOLY COW!

Family Preparedness

2009-01-25T17:16:00.003-07:00

Our ward is participating in a 52 weeks to Family Preparedness Plan. They are sending home little flyers telling us what to get for the week and I thought it would be good thing to blog in case any of you need any help (like I do) getting started.

Last week's flyer said:
Our Church Leaders have asked us to make a concerted effort to obtain our year's supply of food and other essentials. Here are suggestions for a 52 week plan to help us all achieve this. Amounts given are for two people. Adjust the quantities you purchase for the number of family member in your home. The items will change weekly, so keep up with us and take the challenge to become PREPARED.

Food Storage Purchase: 8 cans of Tuna

Extra Item Purchase: 8 rolls of Toilet Paper (1 roll per week for 2 months)

72 Hour Kit: Obtain a backpack or small suitcase with wheels for each family member

Family Preparation (Choose One)
Store enough water for 72 hours
Preferred water storage-2 weeks-14 gallons per person. Also store purifying agents

Spiritual Preparedness
Read D&C 137 and 138
Have church magazines in your home and study the words of the modern day prophets

Week 2

Food Storage Purchase: 8 can of cream of chicken soup

Extra Item Purchase: Laundry Soap to last 2 months

72 Hour Kit: Obtain a blanket(wool is preferred) or sleeping bag per person. Also-sleeping mat

Family Preparation
By your nightstand place a pair of gloves, flashlight and shoes in case of an emergency in the middle of the night

Spiritual Preparednes
Read John 5:39, Mosiah 1:7, and Alma 17:2
Have daily scripture study

Thanks Rice Cereal!

2009-01-22T22:20:00.002-07:00

I just got back from teaching karate for the first time since having Phoenix. I tried to go last week but had to come home early because Phoenix won't take a bottle and was hungry. This week I fed him some rice cereal before I left and left Mark some cereal as well. Well, both boys were in bed when I got back! One is sleeping peacefully, the other is singing songs in his bedroom. Thanks Mark, for the much needed break! Thanks rice cereal for making it so Mark didn't have to deal with crying baby all night!

Eating Our Young.

2009-01-12T17:17:00.004-07:00

My older sister, Heidi asked me a while back "Do you ever want to eat your baby?" You probably know that feeling that makes you just want to nibble on some cheeks. "You're so cute, I could just eat you up" is a common phrase. I've been thinking about this. Why do we get that urge? I'm sure that there are some wacky scientists out there that would say it is an instinct left over from when we were evolving and had to eat our young for our survival. (Like mice do, sometimes.) But, after lots of research I've come to a conclusion I'm sure you'll agree with.....

NOTHING CAN BE THIS FATTENING AND NOT TASTE HEAVENLY!

Better Late Than Never!

2009-01-12T16:28:00.007-07:00

I'm having one of those rare moments when all seems right with the world. Both boys are peacefully snoozing. The dishwasher's running and so are the washer and dryer. It's so quiet I felt like catching up on a post that I've been meaning to do, but just haven't found the time. Phoenix was Baby Jesus for our Christmas Eve Nativity. Mark's cousin's little girls was Mary. She could barely hold Chubs, but she did a great job long enough for me to get a picture. As I stated earlier Cougar wanted to be the special present for Baby Jesus. Here he is in the costume I made him. I cut arms and head holes in a box then wrapped it. Cougar decided that he was gold. He did such a good job as the special present.

On Christmas Eve, Santa visited Grandma Steele's house. He was in rare form. I've never laughed so hard at Santa in my life! Good Job, Santa! Cougar told him he wanted a tractor and a farm.

"More food, please, Santa"

Mark's New Website

2009-01-08T20:25:00.002-07:00

As some of you may know, Mark was elected as the Utah Pheasant Society Webmaster recently. He's been working on the new website and it's finally up. I thought some of you might like to take a look at it. There's not a whole lot on there, yet, but it will grow....

www.utahpheasantsociety.webs.com

Boys...ugh

2009-01-02T21:28:00.002-07:00

Mommy: "Cougar, get your finger out of your nose."
Cougar: "The boogers need help getting back in!"

The Present

2008-12-24T09:52:00.002-07:00

Last night we were talking to Cougar about his part in the nativity at Grandma Steele's house. He wanted to dress up like the stable and Mark and I were trying to convince how cool it would be to be a shepherd or a donkey or something that we have a costume for. He piped up "I want to be the special present for Baby Jesus. I want to be gold, frankenstein and myrrh!" I didn't correct him. He's got his whole life to figure out how to say it right...

Promises Kept

2008-12-23T13:01:00.003-07:00

The state of the economy has been hard on us as I'm sure it has on so many of you. We've been struggling to keep our heads above water and have seen so many little miracles in our lives lately I just wanted to share a little bit of the part of my testimony that has been growing so much lately. I know that tithing works! I don't want to say that paying our tithing is a burden, but when we've got so many places for money to go and not near enough money, it gets really hard for me to pay that 10%. We've focused on making sure our tithing is the first "bill" paid and what a difference it has made. The miracle is this, the numbers don't match. If you sit down and actually work the math it doesn't make sense. There's more going out than coming in, I know it. That's a tremendous blessing. Another miracle is a very generous secret Santa gift left on our porch. Other gifts have been given from family and ward members that have made this Christmas a very memorable one.

Another, Mommy has more patience. I've recently been thinking about a line from Evan Almighty (no, I don't usually get inspiration from Steve Carrell, but he makes me laugh really hard.) The movie said "When people pray for patience, are they given patience OR are they given the OPPORTUNITY to be patient?" Wow, that got me thinking. Every night I pray for more patience with my active, little guy and every morning I am granted the opportunity to see what Heavenly Father has blessed me with. I just need to always remember that he's right there beside me and that everything I do with Cougar can go one of two ways.

Another miracle happened just a few minutes ago and it's what got me wanting to share. It's such a small thing, but it meant a lot. A few years ago I made us stockings. Mark and Cougar's are made out of matching camo fabric. I realized that Phoenix didn't have one and didn't want him to be left out. (Not that he cares now, but in a few years he will care that Daddy and Cougar have stockings that match) Well, I was all prepared to go to the fabric store later to see if I could find something similar, I was scrounging up all the change I could find to pay for it, when I had the feeling to go look in a particular box in the garage. When I did, there was left over fabric with plenty to make a matching stocking for Chubs. Little things like this have been happening to us all the time lately. How grateful we are not only for the blessings, but for the ability to recognize them for what they truly are. One of the greatest blessings we've received is realizing how much more enjoyable the season is when we don't get caught up in the commercialism of it. I've made several presents for the family and can't wait to see the reaction. More so, than the gifts I did end up buying. I'm so excited! What an amazing Christmas season!

Snow Day

2008-12-16T13:29:00.004-07:00

We woke up to a few inches of fresh snow on the ground. What a beautiful sight, I just love untouched snow. Well, it couldn't stay untouched for long, Cougar was anxious to play in it. I dug out his snow things and found my snow boots. Phoenix was well fed, changed and just settling down to a nice nap in his favorite place, the swing. I decided to go out with Cougar and give him some well deserved one-on-one time with Mommy. We had a blast! The first thing he did was lay down and make some snow angels.

We had a snowball fight. He had a little trouble so I had to make the ammo and hand it to him so he could throw it at me. We tried to make a snowman, but I just couldn't get it to work. I rolled it and rolled it, but it wouldn't get an bigger. We checked out the classic Rudolph the Red nosed Reindeer from the library and Cougar's watched it a million times. He's taken it all to heart. He yelled at me "Hey Mom! Let's play some reindeer games!" "Okay, how do you play" We then reenacted the movie with him as Rudolph and me with all the other characters as needed.
He really liked this giant snowball and wanted to save it in his room. I'm a fun hater and wouldn't let him. I'm in the running for the meanest mommy award. Just ask him, he'll tell you.
When we were all done outside we got some cups and filled them with snow. I happened to have sno cone flavors just waiting for us in the cupboards. Cougar had two snow cones and loved them. It was so fun to have some time for him. He's such a sweet big brother and he's been working so hard at getting potty trained. (He's only had 2 accidents in the past 4 days, wahoo!!) My favorite part I think was when he was using "snow" and "winter" interchangeably "Mommy, look! The kitty's playing in the winter, too!"

A Dinner Conversation

2008-12-12T18:50:00.002-07:00

Cougar "How the doctors see our bones?"

Mommy "With an X-ray machine."

Cougar "Can the doctors see Jesus in our bones?"

Mommy "No, you can't see Jesus, you feel him."

Cougar "Where?"

Mommy "In your heart."

Cougar "Where?"

Mommy "In your heart." I now put my hand over my heart.

Cougar "By your shoulder?"

Mommy "Umm....yes."

Cougar "Okay" He goes back to scarfing his pasta.

Zwaggle

2008-12-11T10:42:00.002-07:00

I just discovered this website and had to share with all those that I know love a deal. It's a little like free cycle, but with kids stuff. Here's a little bit taken off their homepage. Check it out. It looks cool. www.zwaggle.com

Zwaggle is a national network of parents who have come together to share.

It's simple: You receive Zwaggle points (or Zoints) by giving your gently used things to other families, then use those Zoints to obtain "new" things for your family.

Sound financially smart? Ecologically responsible? Like a fun way to provide for your kids? It is!

Phoenix Update

2008-12-11T10:17:00.006-07:00

We blessed Phoenix on Sunday and it was such a special day. Mark did a really good job with the blessing. It was so amazing to have our families together. Lorraine made the tux, doesn't he look so sweet? My dad made his famous Chicken Noodle Soup for the get together afterward and I should have told him there were twice as many people coming so we would have lots of leftovers. Cougar fell asleep on Grandma Davis' couch around 6. So, we stayed and watched the First Presidency's Christmas Devotional. It was a great day!

On Tuesday, Phoenix had his two month check. He's officially a fatty. At 24 inches long he is in the 83rd percentile. (He was in the 77th at his two week check) Being 13 pounds! puts him in the 78th percentile. He was only in the 19th at his two week check. He has really porked up. Dr. Glade was thoroughly impressed. what a chunk!

I Almost Feel Like A Person.

2008-12-04T22:14:00.003-07:00

So, if you're a mother you probably get that feeling that you aren't really a person, but a set of hands for diaper changes and peanut butter sandwiches. And a living radio that is constantly singing the same songs over and over again. Yesterday, I had a long drive in the car and Cougar was home with Daddy. I got STUCK in traffic. I'm talking stuck! I was in the fast lane in park, engine off for 10 minutes. I decided to try to find out what was going on and switched my radio over to "KSL news radio 1160! (Yes, I am singing) Traffic and Weather together every 10 minutes on the 9s" Well, I got caught up in the talk. I used to hate talk radio. My dad would listen to it. That gardening show would drive me crazy. Who wants to listen to other people talk about different plant diseases? (I know, right now I can think of at least 4 people who would, but really?) I listened to Sean Hannity rant and rave and loved it! I felt intelligent again. I felt less isolated. It was awesome. I had another long drive today (without Cougar, again) and listened to talk the entire time. It wasn't anything life changing. Doug Wright was just asking people what their favorite pop Christmas song was and why. He wasn't changing the world. It was as invigorating as having an adult conversation. I highly recommend, on those days when you feel like your brain is turning to mush. If you're going to loose it if you have to read one more book that rhymes. If you need to get out, but can't. Turn on some talk radio. It's awesome.

2008-12-02T14:45:00.000-07:00

Phoenix slept for 8 hours last night!!! WAHOO!!!!

Stealing

2008-11-26T20:27:00.003-07:00

Cougar, Phoenix and I went to AutoZone today to switch cars with Mark. Cougar kept asking for different kinds of candy and I kept telling him "No". As we were getting back into the car he said in his sad voice "Mom, I don't want to go to jail, because I love you."

"Okay..." I said not knowing where that came from, but he's often saying very strange things. As I'm buckling him up he tells me he's got candy in a paper bag he was carrying his stuffed animals in. "What?" I open the bag and sure enough right there with his stuffed monkey is a package of Sour Patch Kids. He was quickly marched back to the store where we talked about how stealing was wrong and he had to apologize to the manager (Daddy). I felt kind of rotten that I hadn't been watching him close enough to notice. I was shocked that my sweet boy was turning into a criminal. (I had visions of piercing and tattoos and crazy hair on my sweet little boy in a bright orange jumpsuit) I gave myself a big F on my forehead. Then I realized that he knew it was wrong and he felt bad about it. That means I'm doing something right. We had a teaching moment and hopefully he won't do it again. I can remember stealing a mailbox of conversation hearts when I was around 4 or so. I had eaten all but one before my mom noticed, and the only reason she did notice was because I proudly proclaimed that I was going to share the last one with my older sister, Heidi. I turned out all right (at least I think I did) so there's still hope for Cougie.

Helping Mom

2008-11-26T14:00:00.002-07:00

In preparation for Thanksgiving, I've been making a few pies. Cougar loves to help and very often tells me that he's a chef and needs to taste it. I'm not sure where he got that but my guess is Grandpa Kindlespire. Here he is wearing the Chocolate Peanut Butter Dream Pudding Pie we made. (Yes, it is as delish as it sounds) I hope I got your mouth watering for tomorrow. Mine sure is. I love turkey.

Zonked

2008-11-26T13:45:00.004-07:00

Phoenix is a growing boy. Here he is zonked out, snuggling with Mama after a wonderful dinner. Yeah, we call him Fatty and Chubs more than his real name. Look at that arm! This sweet boy slept for 6 1/2 solid hours last night. I almost feel like a new woman!

Family Pictures!

2008-11-22T11:31:00.002-07:00

We got family pictures taken last Saturday and I'm so happy! (I would be ecstatic if my oldest son had been slightly more cheerful) The photographer we used was awesome. He took about a bizillion pictures. Considering what Cougar was giving him to work with (screaming, crying, snot, and hands in front of face) he is the Houdini of photographers. Thanks Courtney!!

I don't know why, but I could not get this picture to rotate.

What a cutie! I love that his wrinkley palm is included.

The photographer was able to capture Cougar as he truly is.

Now, why couldn't he smile like this for all the pictures? Stinker! I love this picture. I think it just screams mischief.

By the way, the panda is not a third child. You've got to pick your battles and Cougar really wanted to hold the stinkin' thing. It didn't really help him smile, but at least he's not screaming.

Blog Rename

2008-11-22T10:33:00.002-07:00

So a few weeks ago my older sister renamed her blog to "We Love to Live". Taken from a poem written by a great grandma of ours. I was jealous because I didn't think of it first. I've never really liked the name of our blog but couldn't think of anything else. Well, after coming across our wedding invitation I finally had a stroke of genius. On our wedding invite we (or I, Mark didn't really have a choice about it) included an ending line from one of Grandma's poems.

Just one place I am belonging,

and I know it is with you.

Well, it's still true. There is only one place for me and that's with these boys. Crazy though the days may be. Even if I have to deal with 3 bird breeders (Phoenix's favorite toy is a red little bird, it starts so young.) I can't think of a better place for me. And with that I change the name of our blog to Just One Place.

2008-11-13T21:48:00.002-07:00

Cougar said "We go at the zeeum. We on a scabber hunt for horthogs. They have forns."

This was said while telling Daddy about our trip to the Bean Museum today.

Translation. "We went to the museum. We were on a scavenger hunt for worthogs. They have horns." He also decided that one of the lions, "With the hair all around" (a mane) looks like Daddy. We had a fun trip. Cougar was so excited and amazingly well behaved.

Pheasants and Phreezers

2008-11-11T10:40:00.002-07:00

This past weekend was the annual Utah Pheasant Society Show. It's something that Mark looks forward to all year long. If you're wondering what a pheasant show is think, dog show, but with pheasants. (As I say that I get a funny image of Mark running his birds around a ring with green carpet). Anyway, it's always fun to see how our birds compare with others. Mark got a whole load of ribbons including 10 first place. Cougar entered some birds this year as well. He got 1 first place, 1 second and 2 third. Man, was he proud of himself.

I've said this before, but I really don't get the obsession with birds. I try to be supportive and I really do enjoy seeing Mark win something that is important to him, but if we stopped raising birds tomorrow I don't think I'd miss it. However, this show made it worth it to me. Every year at the show they have a big raffle. We have won little things(boxes of cheese its and various other things) But this year, we won BIG. Cougar's ticket was drawn for a brand new, still in the box, 21 cubic foot, upright, frigidaire freezer. I couldn't hardly believe it. I've been wanting a freezer for soooooooo long! I'm so excited! That's the power of positive thinking. I had been telling everyone all weekend that it was mine. I was going to win it. What a blessing! I can't wait to go to costco now I've got some real freezer space!

What Would You Do?

2008-10-29T11:27:00.002-06:00

I had to make a decision yesterday and was just wondering what others might do in the same situation. Reams is having a sell on fresh boneless skinless chicken breasts, $1.39 a pound. Wow, that's a great price! I stopped in to buy some. When I looked at the first package of chicken I noticed something that made my stomach lurch. A long black hair was packaged in nicely right along with the chicken. (I'll pause here while you struggle to hold back the vomit you feel working it's way to the surface.)

So, what would you do? I only saw one black hair and there were several other packages. Do you skip over the nasty one and buy the ones that look safe? Or do you assume all packages are contaminated and go pay at least a dollar more per pound elsewhere? I'm not going to tell you what I did. I just am curious what you might do.

The Past Week

2008-10-23T16:24:00.003-06:00

We had a fun busy week. Grandma and Grandpa Davis came home from their mission in Arizona on a Navajo Reservation last Thursday. We got together quite a bit over the weekend. It didn't even seem like they had been gone for 18 months. It's so great to have them home! Cougar especially loved playing with his cousins and is looking forward to the time we get together again.

On Saturday, Mark went hunting with his dad and older brother Todd. Nobody got anything and they came home much earlier than expected. Mark got to come with us to Pumpkinland at a nursery in Orem. It was nice to have him around (we're kind of forgetting what's it's like to be all together at the same time.)

Phoenix had his two week check on Tuesday. He now weighs 7 pounds 11 ounces and is 21 inches long. I personally was surprised that he hadn't gained more weight. He eats just about every 2 hours, sheesh. His numbers put him in the 21st percentile for weight and head size and the 77th for length. So, just like the other boys in the house he is tall and skinny. I really don't get to fit in I've got Kindlespire genes which means short and squatty. (Thanks again, Dad) :)

And last, but not least Mark got the biggest deer of his life on Tuesday. He went back out with Gayle and it payed off. It's a three by four that he is very proud of. Cougar thought it was pretty cool. It is currently hanging up outside waiting for me to make jerky. (I don't get hunting, but I'm happy for Mark!)

Introducing Phoenix Kimball Davis

2008-10-11T20:19:00.003-06:00

Cougar and Phoenix. I love the face Cougar's making. He kept making this face that was full of excitement and uncertainty at the same time. This is the closest we got to capturing it.

Phoenix and Daddy. It's been so fun to see Mark with Phoenix. He's an old pro at this baby thing now and just makes the cutest Daddy. He's been so incredibly supportive through very difficult times for me. He's the greatest decision I've ever made. I love you, Sweetheart!

There's always room on Mommy's lap.

I realized Mark didn't even blog our little guy's name. It's Phoenix Kimball Davis and we're so excited that he's finally here. What a miracle. It amazes me how deeply you can love a person, how much love can be in one heart. It's amazing how you can be completely incomplete and not realize it until that spot you didn't know was empty is filled up. I've felt that when I married Mark and then again when Cougar came to us and once again with Phoenix. I've heard all the time how you just find more love for the children added to your family, you don't love anybody any less you just love more. How true it is. I already can't imagine my life without this little guy.

Cougar has been so good with him. He's gentle and kind and tells me he loves his baby.
We're all doing very well and thank you all for your amazing love and support.

2008-10-06T14:34:00.000-06:00

HE is here

2008-10-06T14:06:00.002-06:00

We are now the proud parents of 2 boys. The second came at 1:26 pm and was 7 pounds even and 18" long. I am sure that Kristi will post more latter on so stay alert.

May Be Too Much Info.

2008-10-03T23:08:00.002-06:00

I had a doctor's appointment today and because I know some of you are wondering....I'm dialated to a 1 and am 80% effaced. The doctor also stripped my membranes. I've had some stronger contractions, but they died down and I don't really think they were much more than Braxton Hicks. Mark is supposed to do duck hunting tomorrow morning so, we'll see what happens tonight.

PS If that was more than you wanted to know about me, then sorry.

For Heidi.

2008-10-01T15:16:00.008-06:00

Grandma Bauer's Pumpkin Squares

1. 1 package yellow cake mix minus one cup.
1/2 cup softened butter
1 egg
Mix and press into a well greased 9 X 13 pan

2. 1 can 29oz pumpkin
1/2 cup brown sugar
2 eggs
2/3 cup evaporated milk
1/2 t salt
1 1/2 t ginger
1/2 t cinnamon
1 1/4 t nutmeg
1/2 t cloves
Mix well and pour over crust

3. 1/4 cup sugar
1 cup yellow cake mix
1/4 cup softened butter
1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Mix, crumble and sprinkle over mixture.
Bake at 350 for 50 minutes.
Can serve with whip cream on top. (I highly reccomend that)
ENJOY!

Yay for Me!!

2008-09-29T17:59:00.004-06:00

I'm amazing! I sewed this almost all by myself. My sweet older sister helped me cut it out, but everything else was me! By the way, it's a nursing cover-up. (You know, one of those things that ties around the neck so the baby can't pull it off. It also has some boning in the front so that you can see the baby. It's supposed to help eliminate the need for two extra hands when you're trying to nurse AND stay modest) I found this really easy pattern on the internet and made it just today. It took me a couple of hours, but I'm slow. I'm really happy with the way it turned out and can't wait to actually use it. (hint, hint, baby)

Fall is Here!

2008-09-29T12:35:00.003-06:00

Fall is officially here! How do I know? Forget the calendar and the equinox thing. Those are rather unreliable in my opinion. In our family, two things ALWAYS happen in the fall.

1. I start wanting to eat pumpkin anything (and everything).
2. Mark starts shopping for a new shotgun.

The shopping has been going on for at little while now and last night I made Grandma Bauer's Pumpkin Squares. Yummy. Please forgive the picture I know it looks a lot more like pumpkin splotch and not very appetizing, but it is delish! It takes every ounce of will power I have to not eat the whole pan in one sitting. So, welcome Fall! Be kind, stay a while, share your beautiful weather and don't let it start snowing too soon.

Success!

2008-09-26T10:36:00.003-06:00

As a mother, every once in a while you have a moment when you realize that what you hope to teach your child has been sinking in. They seem to come so far between those feelings of inadequacy and doubt, but they really touch your heart somewhere deep.

Preschool Presentation, Good Deals, Charlie Brown

2008-09-24T21:51:00.003-06:00

Cougar had "his day" in preschool today which meant I got to go and observe for the day. He basically got to choose what they did all day. He got to help lead the class in songs, decide what they did outside, which book they read (If You Give a Pig a Pancake), he even got to bring the snack (Teddy Grahams Trail Mix and Kool-aid) and present a poster about himself. We had worked on the poster the night before and he picked all kinds of pictures (many of which have been posted on this blog at some point) and colored it with markers. Since he started preschool I've been thrown for a loop because he's influenced by someone when I'm not there. He says things to me and talks about things and I have no idea what he's talking about. So, it was fun to be able to observe his class and his teacher. Things make a little more sense, now. Like when Cougar asked me one day out of the blue "May I have more milk, please" (I try to instill good manners, but have never worked on 'may I') Well, Miss Marilyn helps them to use good manners. When he was coloring his poster with markers he kept telling me "Listen for the clip" as he was putting the lid on. Today Miss Marilyn got out some markers and said "Make sure when you're done you put the lid on and listen for the click." It's just so strange to me to not know everything that Cougar is involved with anymore. It was also fun to see him interact with the other kids. It's a little different than when he's with his cousins or at nursery. He's rather funny. He was swinging on a two person swing with a little girl and they were getting pretty high and he yells at the top of his lungs "Miss Marilyn!" (he was pretending like I wasn't there most of the day) "We're on our way to Jesus!"

We went to DI today. I had a brilliant idea to use a dish drying rack to hold Cougar's bath toys (they never seem to get dry and it's really been driving me nuts lately. It's hard to get clean when the bath toys are slimy). I also have been on a picture book rampage. I searched the shelves of DI a while ago and found so many that we love that I can't go without spending about 1/2 hour searching for more fun books. Well, I found a real treasure today and just have to share. I found "Where the Wild Things Are" which is a book I believe no home should be without, but somehow we were without it. It's in pristine condition! No tears, marks or damage of any kind. It was a dollar. I felt like it was a little pricy for a second hand book and almost put it back, but it is a hardback. I talked my cheap self into it. (Yay me!)

I rented "It's the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown" for Cougar this week and he's watched it over and over and over again. (He's got a thing for pumpkins lately) I think he memorized it so I shouldn't be surprised that when I dropped something at DI today he said "Mom, you blockhead" I was a little taken a back, but he meant it in a loving way, like when I call him a stinker, but you should have seen the face of the old lady standing near us. She was shocked!

The picture is something Cougar found at DI that he absolutely couldn't live without and for 5o cents I thought "what the heck, we can add it to our sorry dress up box" He loves it and wore it for quite a while tonight. It you can't tell, it's a sunflower headband. Goofball.

Why is it so quiet??

2008-09-22T19:44:00.003-06:00

I had one of those scary mom moments today. You know, when you suddenly realize it's way too quiet. I went looking for Cougar and here's what I found. He had rediscovered our meager supply of dressup items (It's hard to find dress up stuff for boys).

Salem Pet Fair

2008-09-20T18:59:00.003-06:00

Cougar and I went to the Salem Pet Fair today. I volunteer for a rescue and adoption agency and they were basically in charge of it, so I was helping. Cougar had a blast. He played on the playground for most of the day. Except when they were having worm races. Basically, each kid picks a worm and puts in in a circle that's about 3 inches in diameter. The first worm to make it out of the circle wins the race. Well, when the race was over the people in charge told a few of the little boys to keep the worms so Cougar ended up with a cup full of about 20 nightcrawlers. I've decided that's the best way to keep a little boy entertained he played with them for hours and is still playing with them. He also got this cool caterpillar painted on his face. He thinks he's the luckiest kid in the world.

A Great End to the Day.

2008-09-18T08:47:00.004-06:00

Cougar and I just went to the greatest thing ever! I signed us up for a Cradled in Literacy workshop, which is a little four week program put on by Spanish Fork City. It was entirely free (sounds great already, but it gets better) Basically, they took the kids and had licensed child care providers watch them (snacks and finger painting included) while the mothers/parents had a class about instilling a love of reading in children. Taught by a couple of women with big degrees and lots of experience. They gave us a binder full of ideas and tips and even a book. If You Give a Pig a Pancake. It was so cool! Then they bring the kids in with the parents and have you practice what you just talked about. I loved it! Cougar loved it. I feel all rejuvenated and ready to be that super fun mom I am in my dreams. I just can't wait for next week.

A Rough Start to the Day.

2008-09-18T08:47:00.003-06:00

Last Saturday, Mark found a kitten in our yard that was sick and needed some love. As our house is always open to furry creatures in need of a little help I took him in right away and started nursing him back to health. He did okay for a while, but yesterday afternoon he made a very quick decline and at about bedtime it became clear to me that the little guy probably wasn't going to make it through the night. Knowing I had to help my little animal lover understand what was about to happen, I talked to Cougar about how he was very sick and hurting. I told him Heavenly Father might take him to live with him. I told Cougar he should say goodbye to him, just in case. We said goodbye, Cougar sang the kitty Twinkle Twinkle (his favorite song) and then we snuggled for a little while. Being a mommy (and often an impatient mommy) I've seen a lot of tears. Tantrum tears, Owie tears, Don't wanna go to bed tears, Frustrated Tears and Tired tears. Nothing compares to plain old Sad tears. Cougar was fighting to not cry about it, until I told him it was okay. I could just feel his poor heart breaking. We finished the night with Cougar saying two very earnest "Bless my kitty prayers". About an hour after he fell asleep the kitty passed on. This morning we got up early for a "sunrise service". Mark and I explained to Cougar that the kitty found a new home with Jesus. With a shoebox casket we went outside to find a proper place to bury it. Cougar lost it. He didn't want to bury it. I asked what we should do and he said we should put in in the garbage (that's what Mark does with his birds so I guess it makes sense to Cougar) . For the next half hour Cougar cried and told me over and over again that he doesn't like Jesus and wants his kitty back. That was so hard for me to hear. One of those moments that you feel like you're failing and wonder what you're doing wrong. I then felt inspired to tell Cougar about when my grandma died. I told him she was probably playing with our kitty right now. That helped him to feel lots better. I'm sure some would say that 3 1/2 is a little young to understand death, but I've never believed in lying about what happened. ("Fluffy ran away") So, thank you for reading my long blog entry, it was more for me than anyone else. I guess I'm grieving a little too. It does take a lot of energy and love to care for such a sick kitty. Love to all.

Grrr...

2008-09-17T14:10:00.002-06:00

I just got bit by Satan's right hand mosquito. It bit me about an inch below my overstretched supposed-to-be-an-innie-but-is-an-outie belly button. Come on! Isn't my poor belly going through enough already. Cursed mosquito. I didn't even have the satisfaction of catching it in the act and swatting it. It got away with it and will probably go bite another unsuspecting prego belly. Where's the hydrocortisone?

Baby Ella is Here!!

2008-09-16T18:23:00.004-06:00

Yeah whoa! Not my baby. It's still cooking. Jake and Tandi had their little girl. 6 pounds 14 ounces. We're so excited for them. Congratulations to Jake, Tandi and new big sister Halli!

Revision

2008-09-11T21:57:00.001-06:00

Okay, in some ways he's growing way too fast, and in others he's dragging. All you mothers out there, I need some help! I need suggestions on how to get one strong-willed little boy to poop in the potty. The only way he is successful without fail is if he is naked. As soon as you put anything on that little bum it's fair game to poop in. I'm at my wits end! Help.

Growing Too Fast.

2008-09-11T21:51:00.002-06:00

Cougar and I went to the library today and Cougar said "I want to go on the elebator." It broke my heart! For months he's called it an "alligator". He can't say it right! Where's the fun in that. Next thing you know he's going to be getting married! He's just growing way too fast!

A Funny Sidenote

2008-09-09T22:48:00.002-06:00

We went to a friend's wedding reception tonight (Congratulations again, Black Al). It was in the backyard of someone the bride knew, I think. One of those immaculately tended to gardens, just gorgeous. Cougar was off playing with some little boys. While we were watching them, two of these boys ran off to a corner of the garden, unzipped their pants and piddled right there among the flowers! Mark and I laughed so hard, (only because it wasn't our child). Cougar, luckily remained oblivious to what was going on and continued playing. If I was their mother I would have been mortified! (She didn't notice, by the way, and neither did their dad who was right there.) I know little boys have a tendency to go potty outside (okay, big boys do too). But, I never imagined they would do it in such a public place, while wearing their Sunday best! For the rest of my life I'm going to be watching my boys like a hawk at all outdoor wedding receptions!

Christopher Robin

2008-09-09T22:41:00.002-06:00

It was stormy this afternoon, not terrible, but a little drizzly. Cougar saw it as the perfect opportunity to go outside and play. I imagine this is what Christopher Robin would look like if he were American and not such a prim and proper British child. Spiderman umbrella and good old muck boots.

Harvest Time!

2008-09-08T22:09:00.004-06:00

We had homegrown corn for dinner tonight. Mark and I picked it right out of our yard and it was not only edible, but delicious! (IFA's TripleSweet corn seed, if you're wondering what kind it was) And what did we have to accompany this fine vegetable? Turkey Pastrami Sandwiches. Delish! I almost felt like I was back at Lake Powell. To top off such a fantastic dinner Mark came home right as I was dishing Cougar and I up (he was about 1/2 hour sooner than expected) so we got to eat together as a family. Wonderful! Cougar says "Thanks for making dinner, Mommy" just about every night. (Even when Daddy made it). Tonight he said "Great dinner, Mom!" I love that. It gives me just a glimpse of what it would be like if I actually enjoyed cooking. :)

Cougar's First Day of School

2008-09-04T08:52:00.003-06:00

Cougar had his first day of preschool yesterday. He was so excited to go. He's worked hard to get ready for the big day. He went right in with no problems and was too busy to say goodbye to his poor mommy. I only cried a little bit when I got to the car. He looked so handsome and so proud of himself.

Somebody Explain!!

2008-08-29T16:11:00.005-06:00

I just bought Mark a package of socks. Nothing fancy just regular Hanes Cushion Crew (now with ecosmart fibers). Could somebody please explain to me why these socks are in a resealable bag? Do socks go bad? Should I be storing them in the fridge? I just really don't get it.

I have emerged!

2008-08-25T19:28:00.002-06:00

Okay, so it has been a while! I must admit I was in a Breaking Dawn bubble for a while. It then turned into a potty training bubble which (thank heavens) has proven successful. Sorta, we're still dealing with occasional accidents, but we're getting better. Alleluia! I get a brief break from diapers! We are all doing well, lots has happened in the past few weeks. We had a fun time at the zoo with cousins. Cougar got to meet his preschool teacher. Mark worked on getting the wall up for the third bedroom and is continuing to do so. He starts another semester on Wednesday and we are all just dreading it. It seems like we've had about 2 years of school left for the last 5 years. It's like we're stuck in a time warp. I'm sure anybody who's gone to college knows exactly the feeling I'm talking about.

In case anybody was wondering I am two weeks past the time I had Cougar (he was born at 31 weeks and I'm now almost to 33). My blood pressure is lower than it usually is when I'm non-prego. (About 100/60) I'm very quickly beginning to realize that I really missed the uncomfortable ending part of pregnancy. I feel like my belly button is going to rip open at any moment (For those of you that have finished it, this feeling combined with certain parts of Breaking Dawn have not helped my very strange prego dreams. I'm sure you can figure out what I'm talking about, if not don't worry about it, it's not going to change your life)

Lake Powell 2008

2008-08-04T16:28:00.003-06:00

Cougar and I headed down to Lake Powell with my family for 5 days. Poor Mark had to stay home and go to work. We had a great time! Cougar had a list of things to do before we even got the houseboat beached. It was 1. sand 2. tent 3. fish. I'm happy to report we got every last thing and then some checked off his list.

Dad and I were just way too matchy-matchy to not take a picture.

Here's a wonderful picture of Cougar helping to catch a fish. I was in the middle of changing his diaper and putting on his pjs when Grampa hooked a catfish. The fish couldn't wait for Cougar to get dressed.

The beach was covered with little toads that Cougar could catch all by himself. He loved it. Little boy heaven, that's the definition of Lake Powell.

We got to go on a couple of (not exactly successful) striper fishing trips. Here's what I got when I asked him to show me his excited about going fishing face. Cousin Emma is looking cute as usual in the background.

Cougar also had a blast swimming. He never did get up enough nerve to swim by himself, but we'll work on that. As long as he had a hold of somebody's hand he did pretty well. Here he is swimming with Aunt Nikki.

Worries Come True

2008-08-03T10:00:00.003-06:00

To those of you who came to Lake Powell with me and chuckled at my worries about how many new creatures I would find when I got home, here's proof that I'm not nuts and not exaggerating. I was gone for 5 days and when I came home Mark had 43 new birds and at least 10 new cages. He does get a few points though because the truck was sold and the lawn and garden weren't completely dead. Lake Powell pictures and such to follow.

Pioneer Day

2008-07-25T13:38:00.003-06:00

We had a great Pioneer Day. We loved having Daddy home from work for the day. We started out by going to the Spanish Fork Parade. Cougar was very excited.

Here he is waiting for the parade to start, "reading" the program. Somebody came by and gave him the blue balloon. Candy was thrown through out the whole parade and Cougar raked it in. He loves parades.

Only in Spanish Fork....What more can I say? An entry in the parade appeared to be just a bunch of people riding their tractors. This was my favorite. Before I die I will have a pink tractor. :)

Okay this was just cool. This was a entry from a company called Terraflex, I think. Basically they get jeeps ready for rock crawling. So this is what they did in the parade. (The picture does not do it justice.) They were driving down the street (the yellow one in front was going backward) then they would stop and drive their jeeps up each other's tires and hold it there for a moment. They'd get all four tires back on the street and drive a little bit further down the route and do it all again. It was pretty cool to watch.

We also got to go hang out with Gayla and her kids, Matt and Carrie and theirs, and Pam and Kade at Gayle and Lorraine's house. It was good to see them. It had been a while. Cougar loves playing with his cousins and was sad to go. He was also sad to leave the Wii. He got to play a few games and loved it. He bowled (we all know how much he loves that) and he played Uncle Matt in a game of Wii baseball. It was pretty funny, if you've never seen somebody play a wii you're missing out. We loved the day and crashed when we got home.