Team Hoopes

Lions and Tigers and Bears, Oh My!

2011-11-11T12:27:00.000-08:00

So we finally made it to the zoo. Jackson loves animals, and Rylie has just recently started getting really interested in them, her favorite by far being birds, she gets all excited and starts whining and pointing. The weather was perfect and we ended up walking the whole thing, about a 4 mile loop. All in all...a perfect day.

Check this place out...

Gorillas...

And Rhinos...

This was the coolest of all... We got to feed the giraffes. Jackson laughed the whole time and Rylie was determined to hold onto her leaves, the giraffe really had to get his tongue in there to pull it away.

Random Fun

Zoo Miami... The End

Halloween!!

2011-10-31T17:19:00.001-07:00

I am taking a few minutes to do this now because, lets face it, it may not get done otherwise.

This is the first year we have lived in a neighborhood that was trick or treat friendly, so we were definately excited.

The pumpkins got carved...

The house got decorated...

The costumes were awesome...

Parties and faces painted (the devil skeleton)...

And fun was had by all!

Two quick stories...

While trick or treating at one house, Jackson walks up, says trick or treat, gets candy, says thank you, stands there staring at them for a few minutes and then says "BOO!"

Rylie trick or treats backwards. She carries a bucket around, but always has at least one piece of candy in her hand. When she walks up to a house she tries to put her candy in their bowl and walks away waving. Such a funny girl.

Happy Halloween!!!

Rylie is 1!!!

2011-09-26T09:41:00.000-07:00

So this may have been the fastest year ever. I can't believe our baby is 1! She had a great birthday, or should I say birth week since that is about how long the celebrations lasted. She started out with cupcakes with friends, and finished up the party with presents and cake at home.

Rylie is the sweetest little girl. She is a cuddler, not usually with us because she is trying to keep up with Jackson, but she loves to snuggle with everyone else and every once in a while, when she lays her head on either mine or Tims shoulder, its perfect.

*She is walking almost exclusively now, unless she wants to get somewhere really fast.

*She says mama, dada, and ma (milk, I think), and I am pretty sure these aren't just sounds, but actual words.

*She climbs stairs, and today the gates blocking the stairs.

*She is stubborn, grunts and throws a fuss if she doesn't get what she wants.

*Definately a tomboy, but one I like to keep in dresses. Her favorite toys are cars. She wanders around on all four with cars in her hands rolling her along. She has just started to throw balls sort of.

*She thinks she can swim. She will throw herself out of our arms into the water, sink, and then be smiling when we pull her up.

*She is so sweet and we love her!

Happy Birthday Rylie!

Enjoy the pics!

Oklahoma

2011-07-08T13:35:00.000-07:00

You have to sing that by the way. Anytime I say it I am really singing the musical in my head. We spent the last week visiting with Grandma and Grandpa in Oklahoma...It was relaxing (well as relaxing as vacationing with two kids can be), exciting, fun, hot-very very hot, all in all a great trip. Its nice to spend time with family, that is for sure. Jackson had a blast going in and out at will, the huge yard is awesome for him. He learned how to play baseball, and saw all sorts of creatures-cats, frogs, bunnies, spiders, wolf dog-and proceeded to chase them all. Rylie on the other hand, well, we discovered she is terrified of animals, especially cats. Even seeing them makes her shriek in terror. However she loved being snuggled all the time, and was quite the princess for everyone we saw...she is such a little showoff, but then again, she is stinkin' cute. And we got to enjoy family, make new friends, and take a break here and there. Awesome trip!

Rylie stands these days

Squirt gun fight

Make room for Daddy!

Grandpa wore Jackson out, but....

Rylie wore Grandpa out... I'm right there with ya Grandpa

Love this pic. And yes her hair is the same color as her shirt. Every single person we meet says, oh my, wear did she get that hair- hahaha.

Now these next pics may shock a few, but remember we were in Oklahoma, and they make kids tough there

Jackson riding a 4 wheeler...behind a 7 yr old

The boys lighting fire works

Yes that is a gun...I suppose he wants to be a hunter after this trip. (Don't worry, it isn't real)

2011-06-04T19:04:00.000-07:00

Tonight Jackson said- "I'm excited to go to sleep!" Yes it was late, yes we had an active day, but I don't expect to hear that again until he is 25 or 30. Earlier today he picked up his tool box and said, "I'm going to fix mommy's car, its broken." Yes it is broken and I did try briefly to fix it...about a month ago. How does he remember these things? Last Tuesday he walked out of the bedroom and sat down on the couch next to Tim and said "Lets go Heat, Lets go Heat" As if he needed to worm his way into Tims heart even more, way to make Dad proud. And then there was the time when a friend at church asked him what his daddy's name was and he answered very assuredly "Bishop Hoopes" Or when he calls me "Honey" I want milk... or to play... or puzzles. Kids sure are sponges. Other funny phrases we have heard recently : "Sounds good to me" "I like this song, do you like this song?" "I don't want breakfast, I want dinner." (This at 7 in the morning) One more, "I save my money's for my mission. See ya later, I'm going on a mission, bye." As he gets on his toy car and drives to the door and tries to open it.

Playing in his fort or "palace" as he calls it

Notice the underwear...almost completely potty trained! Yea!!

Our little princess Rylie is a crawling machine. Once she decided she wanted to actually go more than one or two little crawls there was no stopping her. She has two teeth and is probably working on two more. She is so sweet and funny. She snuggles and loves to be held. She does this deep laugh that cracks me up everytime. She has grown up so fast, it makes me a little sad. I want to put it on pause for just a month or two to catch up. She has this bright red hair and hazel eyes-definately got some Natter genes in her. She really is our princess, and she is Jackson's "silly goose" (had to throw that one in)

Watching tv...bad habits start early...shame on me

By the way mom, did you know I can crawl?

Pretty girl

As much as I want time to stop I am excited to see them older and playing together more because it is so obvious how much they love each other.

I woke up the other morning to find Jackson had gotten up and decided to climb in with Rylie, how sweet

Drive baby drive

Fort time together

Easter pics!

Some Pictures and Things

2011-04-14T07:34:00.000-07:00

A couple months ago we got the chance to go visit the castle. It is this little stone castle/tower thing set on what must be the only hill in South Florida. We had a lot of fun climbing and jumping and hiding, and of course rolling down the hill! Unfortunately we were not quick enough on the camera for that. It was a blast to get out and play though, both Jackson and Rylie had fun.

Happy 2nd Birthday Jackson!!

Checking out my new bike-see me ride!!!

Opening presents from Aunt Evie- Jackson has to try EVERYTHING on so the process can take awhile

Reading with Shari and playing with his bubble machine from Grandma and Grandpa

Happy Birthday monkey cake and sign all his friends made for him at school

A bunch of random pictures and and update. Jackson and Rylie love to play and wrestle. He is such a good brother and can always make her laugh hysterically.

Rylie just had her six month appt. She is 27 1/2 inches, 16 lbs 8 oz, which is in the 70th percent for weight and 97th for height. Watch out Jackson here she comes! She is a rolling machine, pretty good at scooting backwards, loves toys, babbles dadadadada all day long, and yes she is sleeping (mostly)through the night-or at least until 530 or 600. I love to listen to her laugh.

Jackson is amazing. He continues to grow and astound us with what he knows and can do. He loves school, loves to play on the playground, play tennis, climb, play hide and seek (although when you say "where are you Jackson?" he is quick to answer "hiding...behind the couch") I love it! He can sort of spell his name, he can count, say the alphabet, sing lots of songs, read-as long as he has the book memorized, play basketball, and play football "games". He is hilarious, just the other day as I was feeding Rylie her standard large dinner, Jackson says "Rylie, you a little pig... Oink oink oink." (sorry Rylie) We about died laughing though. Other things he loves, fire trucks, helicopters, cars, dogs, stop signs, water, swimming...the list goes on.

Random Pictures!

2011-02-15T11:19:00.000-08:00

Hey everyone, I know I am behind, and I know that I haven't done the main events (Christmas and Jackson's birthday) but here are some teasers until I get around to doing the really good stuff. Plus these are just so stinking cute!

Quick update, school is going great for the kids. Jackson talks all the time about his friends. He counts and knows colors. He is an awesome helper. He is really learning things everyday-sometimes he says words that we have no idea where they came from-but they are really clear. Like exercise, and castle, and Wednesday (he has been telling all that he is going to do, but not now, on Wednesday). And Rylie is just a sweet happy baby. She is rolling pretty good now, smiles and laughs all the time, and (keep your fingers crossed) is finally starting to sleep better through the night. At her last appt. she was 13 lbs (50%), and 26 inches (95%), so she is growing steadily.

Jackson is so sweet and loves to help feed Rylie her bottle

She is so patient to put up with him and all the walloring and "holding" =) It just can't be all that comfortable.

Rylie wearing monster slippers that Michael got her for Christmas

Jackson wearing Rylie's monster slippers

No that is not a third hand

Yummy, my foot tastes so good

Josh reading to Jackson and Stellan- He must be good to get those smiles!

Mr. Potato Jackson

Evie and Jackson snuggling up with a book

Jackson and Rylie holding hands- it doesn't get any better than this

Updates!

2010-12-04T14:38:00.000-08:00

So it has been awhile but I am finally updating :)

Rylie is growing fast, she started at 18 inches and at her two month appointment was 23. She weighed almost 11 lbs and I can't believe how big she feels to me after feeling so small compared to Jackson. She is smiling and laughing quite a bit lately and loves to "play" on her mat with her brother. She also loves to go on walks and be outside.

Jackson is a champ. He amazes us everyday with the things he says and does. He definitely knows his mind, what he likes and doesn't like, and is way to smart to be tricked into anything. I love it when he says "Mooommmmyyy" in an "are you serious" voice. He is pretty good at mimicing, whether it is yelling touchdown at appropriate times, shooting basketballs, or trying to pick up and hold Rylie. He is growing up so fast. I love cuddling with him, but it is mostly limited to when he is asleep, when he is awake he is constantly moving. He loves his daddy for sure, spending most the day talking about him, "Daddy's at work, Daddy's at church, I want Daddy, Daddys car, Wheres Dad..." You get the picture. I love it though that they love each other so much.

As for Tim and I, we are doing well. It has been a busy couple of months since Rylie was born as you can imagine. Our families came to town for Rylies blessing and it was great for everyone to meet her and spend time with all of us. The blessing was beautiful too! Jackson loves his Mamas and Papas as he calls them. Grandma and Grandpa Natter came a few days early and got to spend time enjoying the sun at the pool, hiking in some of the local parks and seeing the local renaissance fair. Grandma and Grandpa Hoopes stayed through Thanksgiving so we got to spend lots of time with them. We went to soccer games, to the parks and playgrounds, and going on lots of walks-Jacksons favorite! Tim and his dad even got to go to a Heat game. It was great to have them in town. I am 5 months into my beloved furlough, only 1 month left. I have to say yet again that I love that my job is only half a year. I get to be home with the kids and see them learn and grow, and I also get to do a job I love. I have to admit-sometimes the job is easier! Never as rewarding though as hearing Jackson say "lub you" (I love you), watching Rylie smile, or being home when Tim walks through the door. Well enough updates for now- enjoy the pictures!

Check out the jump shot!

Play time

He managed to get on Daddy's jeans, socks, and working on the shoes

Blessing day

Happy Halloween! Arghh!

Jackson loves to help Rylie play

Pretty girl

Blessing day

Rylie Logan Hoopes!

2010-10-05T11:33:00.000-07:00

Little Rylie was born on Sept. 22 at 6:13 pm. She was 7 lbs 9 oz. and 18 inches long. Following Jacksons example she came quick and relatively easy- thank goodness! Everyone is adjusting well and we are excited that she is finally here. Grandma flew in just in time to help, and between her and Aunt Evie, Jackson is taking the changes really well. He is mostly indifferent except when he wants to play with Rylie, or kiss her, or see her, or give her the pacifier, and then he is usually pretty gentle. So far, so good =0) Wasting no more time, here she is...

Our beautiful girl!

Such a good big brother!

More to come later!

Summer so far

2010-08-30T12:34:00.000-07:00

Has been pretty busy, but definately fun. I finished work for the year in the beginning of July, and things went from there. Jackson and I headed out to Washington for some time with my family. We spent some time just relaxing and playing with the grandparents, dog, goats, etc. Then Tim joined us for a few days in Seattle before we headed to Leavenworth for the Natter family reunion. We had some action packed days there, visiting the old German town, hiking-Tim climbed the mountain, I hiked along the river, cliff jumping, white water rafting, and enjoying time with family.

From there we hopped a flight to Salt Lake for the Hoopes family reunion. There we got to spend time with the Hoopes brothers and families. We had a great dinner, went jet skiing, spent time in temple square and the conference center, and got to see old friends and catch up. Mostly we got to spend time with Grandpa. Jackson really enjoyed just following him around, and I think grandpa enjoyed following Jackson around.

Since the reunions we have just been everyday busy. We try to get out to the pool everyday-mostly it is easiest to wear Jackson out there so he takes a good nap and I get to relax. This whole being 8 1/2 months pregnant is exhausting. Jackson is getting used to the idea of a baby- I think. The true test will come in a couple of weeks when she shows up. Jackson is learning fast now, saying a ton of words, "helping", jumping, being all around daring, gaining more independence if that is possible. It is fun to see how much he changes everyday.
And now for what you really have been waiting for, the pictures!

They had this cool plane teeter totter toy at the cabin where we stayed in Leavonworth-fun for all ages

Yes, he really is as fast as he looks

Jackson loves basketball, and Tim and Steve got their daily workouts in by lifting him up to dunk for hours on end it seemed.

The cousins- Aliyah, 6 weeks, Heber, 8 months, Jackson 18 months, and Eliza, just turned 3.

Tim and Jackson hiking the river trail

Teeter totter airplane, this is the first thing they ran to and the last thing they played on

We had some time before we caught the light rail in Seattle, plenty of things to keep us busy at the station.

Hurry up and get in so I can drive already.

Maybe I'll drive this instead

Summer is here...

2010-05-09T16:09:00.000-07:00

What does that mean? Heat, hot, scorching, sun, and lots of time outside wondering if it will ever get a little breezy or overcast just for a small break. But it also means the beach and lots of play time. Here are some quick recaps.

He has turned into a little hat boy. Has to always be stealling daddy's hats.

Cooking with mommy. Isn't this how it is done?

Chillaxing

Are we there yet?

Is he a dog or a little boy... sometimes I wonder.

We do love the beach.

Lowering the BOOM!

We got to go see the kickoff of the AVP tour and this was one of the great games. One of the perks of living in South Florida.

Evie with the number one team in the world, Rogers and Dallhausser

Tim and Jackson watching the game.

Happy Easter!

2010-04-11T18:27:00.000-07:00

Long time no see. I hope everyone had a great Easter. This was our second Easter with Jackson but the first one that he had any idea what was going on. We took full advantage and did everything-Easter pictures, Easter bunny cake, Easter egg dying, Easter egg hunt, you get the idea. So here is what we have...

Our standing tradition- the bunny cake. Tim has done it for as long as he can remember and we have a lot of fun with it.

Who is that good looking couple?

Man are family pictures hard when someone is always moving!

Finally I think we are all smiling.

I love this kid.

Cheese!

He is so good when you are not trying to hold him.

Such a thinker. My favorite shot out of them all.

Easter basket time! Yummy chocolate.

He even got to decorate his own eggs.

This may have been Jacksons favorite holiday. A basket. Tons of egg shaped balls. Lots of messy colored water and markers. Can't forget the legos the Easter Bunny left. In other words, we all had a blast.

2010-03-10T12:32:00.000-08:00

Happy Birthday Jackson!

2010-01-24T14:57:00.000-08:00

Well we all made it!!! Jackson is now one and it has been a great year! He continues to be the highlight of our lives. We celebrated with Evie and Shari with an alligator cake (by far one of the coolest things I have made yet). Jackson was a little unsure at first but he enjoyed smearing the frosting everywhere. Happy Birthday Jackson!!! You are the best!!!

Playing Catch Up!

2009-11-04T10:21:00.000-08:00

It has been a long while so I am going to start off with the most recent and work backwards. I am sure some things will be forgotten but I will try to be better in the future.

Jacksons' First Halloween!

For Jacksons first Halloween he decided to be Batman... Okay we decided he would be Batman, it is pretty hard to find a manly infants costume, and unlike my mom, I am lazy, and did not want to sew him one. That would be way to much work for not knowing if it would even turn out. We went to the ward Primary party, which was during the day. They had cute little games, cupcake decorating, etc. Obviously Jackson mostly crawled around on the floor with the five other kids that are under one. He seemed to have a good time though. Later that night we did not go trick or treating. We thought about it, hard, but it might seem funny for two parents to walk around a kid too little to talk and too little to eat candy. To bad for us I guess.

Toledo baby teddy bear, Jackson (aka Batman), Erik (the frog prince), and the Skeleton Acevedo boy.

The two super heroes, Jackson and Blake. If you can believe it they are only two months apart.

The kids crawling around on the floor.

Can we go yet???

Na na na na na na na, Na na na na na na na na...BATMAN!

Time to Play!
When Tim gets home from work it is his Jackson time. They play chase, wrestle, have races, JP slobbers all over everything. It is the best time of the day to see them playing together. Oh and did I mention they practice walking. About three weeks ago Jackson took his first step, now he is a walking fool! By that I mean he takes about ten steps at a time before he gets so excited about his destination he face plants. As long as he is walking he is great, it is when he tries to run he has some problems.

Jackson has to be all over Tim, all the time, so funny.

Look at us mom, we are wrestling!

Tim and Jackson sword fighting with water bottles. So funny!

The Newest Fascination

Climbing. As you can see, he has discovered the diaper box. And he has discovered how to push one down to climb up to the other. And how to reach into the diaper boxes. And he has discovered how much fun it is to pull all the diapers out. If it gets quiet there are a few places I look to find him. This is one of them.

This is Jacksons first realization of how to get up higher. We went grocery shopping one night and were putting things away when we got home. We watched Jackson push the pack of toilet paper over to the fence, crawl up onto it, stand up and almost hoist himself over. That was when he realized the benefit of using other things to make stairs or ladders up. He is way too smart for his own good.

Paul and Perry Ann's Visit

We had some friends from California come into town for a cruise and they stayed with us a couple of nights before the left. Paul was one of Tim's bishops growing up and it had been quite awhile since we had been able to see them. Didn't really take many pictures but here are a few of JP and Paul when they first showed up.

Other things...

Jackson loves to watch Tim get ready for work, he watches and smiles and laughs and gets in the way as much as possible. He loves to pull the hangers and get in the clothes baskets. He carries around ties if we leave them in reach.

Jackson has a favorite spot, and that is any spot he can't really fit in. This particular one he could spend hours in through out the day. It is between the end table and the couch and there is just enough room for him to walk through. If he tries to crawl like you see below, he usually gets stuck. If he manages to somehow sit down, his legs get so wedged under the couch we have a hard time figuring out how to get him out without moving the table or couch. And yet, he still goes there every opportunity. I wonder what he will do when he really gets to big?

He Sleeps

Always in weird postions and never how you put him down to start out. I am always worried he will break something when he tries to roll.

His feet through the rails and up on the wall...

Chin through one rail, hand through another, and arm hanging straight down another...

So peacefully on the couch after a hard days work...

The Dolphins Game!

Sometime a long time ago, I think in late September, we went to the Monday night Dolphins/Colts game with Dennis, a guy Tim works with. We went early and tailgated before the game... So my first Monday night game and my first tailgating experience. Our tickets were super close and we got to see everything. They even had the bombers do a fly by... loud and a little scary they were so close. We had a blast!

Dolphins taking the field

Dennis and Tim

Go Canes!

2009-09-16T14:10:00.001-07:00

So among other things, college football has finally started, and it is Jacksons first. Tim and the boys- Phil and Josh- introduced Jackson to the excitement of the next months. Miami couldn't just take the easy win though, they had to draw it out till the last minute. It certainly made it entertaining-or stressful- and we are looking forward to a great season!

My two Canes fans!

Already controlling the remote.

Man these cheesy puffs taste good

Look mom, another baby! Wait a minute...

(Sorry these are sideways)

First he's up...

Then he starts his flip!

Yeah, getting him dressed is just soooo easy

Sure he can walk behind it, but climbing on top of the car is so much more challenging.

He found this all on his own and decided his five teeth needed cleaning. Funny boy =0)

Cute Jackson Pics

2009-08-24T13:27:00.001-07:00

So interested in everything

Trying to get him started on training early =0) Mostly he just wants to chew on the cones.

Such a little man

He had to climb his pile of toys-and get stuck.

For some reason he usually sits cross legged. Hangers-another cheap form of entertainment.

Fun Weekend

2009-08-24T12:57:00.001-07:00

This weekend started off with no plans, I think the first weekend with no plans in a couple of months. Friday night however, Tim got a call to play in a beach volleyball tournament with Colby. He used to play a ton in high school and after, but it has been awhile for him. It ended up being alot of fun for us all. So while he showed off his skills, Jackson and I layed around on the beach watching. I think we all ended up enjoying ourselves. Later that night we went to a Dolphins football game with a bunch of friends. Saturday night games are the best, you get to avoid the heat a little bit! And of course we won!

Despite what he says he still has some hops!

Go Colby and Tim!

Nice serve

Jackson and I had to get in on the action

Doesn't he look like a natural?

I love watching Tim play any sort of ball

Family Reunion

2009-08-19T07:44:00.000-07:00

Last month everyone was able to get together in Illinois for a family reunion which turned out to be so much fun. It has been a very long time since we were all able to be together at once-except Michael of course, we definately missed him. We started in Chicago hanging out at Scotts house and moved on to Indiana Dunes National Seashore where we were glad to stay in a nice beach house. We spent time playing games and hanging out on the dunes and at the beach. From there we drove down to Cuivre River State Park and did a little camping. And yes we were all able to camp-the kids-Jackson and Eliza, pregnant Erin, Grandma, everyone. I have to be honest, I have missed camping seeing as how it is not so fun in hot humid Florida. While at Cuivre River we did some hiking, playing in rivers, crawdad hunting, and of course cooking over the campfire. Tim met us in Cuivre River and it was pretty fun to see the look on Jackson's face when he saw his dad show up. Classic, I wish I got it on camera he was so excited.

Grandma and Jackson playing in the laundry

Dad, Aaron and Akela

Jackson waiting to eat

Erin showing Eliza a frog, she kept wanting to touch and then screaming when she did =0)

Picnic lunch

Danny enjoying lunch and the bridge

Eliza and Akela

Aaron and Akela

Scott looking for crawdads

Scott and Jackson snuggling at the beach

Eliza and Akela

Lindsey and Steve chillaxing in the lake

Everyone playing in the water

Except Jackson, he is sleeping in the sand

Good morning!!

Man, it is like we are on vacation or something.

We made a couple side trips as well. We were able to go up to Nauvoo for a day. We wandered around the town, saw quite a few demonstrations, brick making, blacksmith, the guns, and of course the famous Nauvoo Pageant. At the end when they lit up the temple in the background was my favorite part. It was beautiful!

Nauvoo

We took another side trip to Illinois Caverns which happened to be the coolest cave system I have ever been through. Thanks so much to mom and grandma for watching the babies, because I know they were a handful. Especially since we were still camping at that point and there is only so much you can do with two kids. The caves were pretty amazing, one long big tunnel with lots of little side tunnels that were skinny and short. Oh, did I mention there was also water running throught the whole thing.

Caves

Then we all headed home! Can't wait till next year!

Jackson Pictures

2009-07-16T18:46:00.000-07:00

Cause we all know thats what this blog is all about - pictures, pictures, and more pictures of, well, mostly JP.

Jackson and Uncle Josh reading a book - well Josh was reading Jackson was trying to push the train noise buttons.

Gotta hold on to something and Daddy's finger was very convienent.

Peek-a-boo!

I sleep just like dad, with my arm straight up in the air.

Aunt Evie and JP, boy is he out.

Stellan and JP playing together. They do have fun.

Playing at the Fountains

2009-07-08T17:48:00.000-07:00

So a little while ago Lindsey and Steve came to visit. It was great to have them down and spend time with them. We did lots of fun things outside. Okay mostly we hung out at the beach, but they did spend a day kayaking-and I think they had a ton of fun. While they were kayaking Tim and Jackson and I hung out at he fountains at the park there. (Unfortunately we are slackers and don't have pics with Steve and Lindsey.)

Jackson crawling around, enjoying the water and the fake grass.

Sporting his cool little swimsuit and bear walking.

Just chillin'

Check out my shades!

We also hung out at the swing abit. I don't know if he enjoyed the swings or his hands more =0)

Contemplating eating the swing.

After all that playing poor little guy was all tuckered out.

The many faces of Jackson...

2009-06-06T16:34:00.001-07:00

And other random pictures!

Such a pouter...please come play with me!!

Isn't this interesting, so many things to see.

Man, I love showers, I taste all clean afterwards.

So we tried rice cereal to help him/us sleep a little later. Thanks to Krissie for her help. Despite his face he did like it, he just got full and was mad I kept shoving it in his face =0)

He is out like a light, nothing could wake him up.

What??!!

This is JP's standard mode of transportation, he is getting pretty good, and fast too!

Fun to play with and yummy too!

This might be his favorite toy- he is pretty content laying under it for quite a while.

Looking at his toy, trying to figure out the fastest way to get under it.

Please, please, please get me out of here! What a lower lip!

This is just moments later, it doesn't take much to put a smile back on his face.

Project Finished!

2009-06-03T08:16:00.000-07:00

Here is the much talked about quilt that I have been working on. For many years the idea of a t-shirt quilt has been appealling, but who has enough t-shirts with the same theme to turn into a quilt. I'll tell you who- my sister-in-law Evie! She is the athletic director at a middle school and has coached every sport at one time or another. And we all know with sports comes the team t-shirt. So we organized-without her knowledge by the way- a bunch of her shirts into this design and the process began. It took awhile, but after many calls for guidance from my mom, this is how it turned out. Plus it was a ton of fun and a great sense of accomplishment. Maybe this is the first of the t-shirt quilts??!!!

I think it is safe to say that Evie was speechless, or as Tim put it giddy. I am glad that she loves it and that we could do something for her. Not sure if you can tell but all of the sports are represented as well as the athletic logo-alot of these shirts she designed herself. Go Blue and Gold!

2009-05-13T13:00:00.000-07:00

Make a Smilebox photobook

So its been awhile...

2009-05-10T14:03:00.000-07:00

Here is a quick update on all that has been going on in our lives this last little while via some fun pictures. Hope you enjoy...

Jackson got sick for the first time, daycare sent him home with 102 degree temp. Luckily the doctor said it was just a virus and he should get better soon. Here is his days at home, doesn't it look like he is enjoying it and not feeling too bad? I hope this faking sick thing isn't something I need to worry about later on!

Sick again, still seems to be enjoying it!

No, I have not drugged him, although I do like to call this his drunk and disorderly pose. Really he just likes to sleep with his arms up, his eyes half open and the chupa hanging out of the corner of his mouth.

Oh yes, he has not only learned to roll, he has started to scoot on his knees and forehead. I am a little worried about rug burns but there is no stopping him.

Jackson in his crib, playing happily until dad is ready for work.

Jackson holding his own bottle. We have been really blessed with great family and friends who help us out when I am working late and Tim has meetings. I wish I had pictures of everyone, but for now here is Phil and Jackson. Thanks to Evie, Phil, Josh, Krissie, Sara, Brother and Sister Douglass, Lauren, and everyone else who helps us out!

Austin and Daddy are getting me started early on golfing. Maybe I can go when I am as tall as the club!

Look at me, look at me, look at me! Yes I stand with the support of toys and couchs now. Balance isn't so good though.

That about sums it up for now! More to come with actual stories later.

Back to work...

2009-04-22T14:24:00.000-07:00

So this week I started back at work. It was very weird for me because I love what I do, but I have had so much fun with Jackson these last 3 months. I miss him like crazy, and missing him makes me miss Tim more during the day as well. He seems to be doing good at his school though. Every time I call they say he is smiling away. Then he comes home and is still smiling. When he is awake that is. I can't wait for him to be able to hug though, because then I will feel much better when he hugs me when I get home from work. I have to give props to Tim too. He is doing all the drop offs and pick ups. I don't know how he does it, he is just one amazing guy and the best husband and dad.

I was a little worried going to work because for my whole pregnancy I was doing desk work-something I have not done since probably high school. Don't get me wrong, I survived, and I was so grateful that my bosses worked with me, but I learned that I love to be outside working/playing. So coming back I had to pass my pack test- walk 3 miles with 45 pounds in under 45 minutes- before I could get back on an engine. Having done nothing for so long I didn't think I would pass right away. But yea!! I managed to pass and am back driving around in an engine, hoping for fires, but quick ones so I still get home at my normal time =0)

Did I mention how great Tim is? Because I don't think I could have asked for more.

The Bunny Cake

2009-04-14T07:33:00.000-07:00

We have an Easter tradition that Tim has been doing for as long as he can remember, and now we get to pass it down-the bunny cake. Every year we make a cake shaped like a bunny for desert. This year the chosen flavor was carrot cake. We had a bunch of friends over for a sort of pot luck dinner. I love doing holidays with other people, at least while our family is still so small. We got to hang out and talk, and just enjoy our friends. After dinner we pulled out the cake. As shown in the pictures Jackson could not keep his eyes off of it. I'm sure it was the jelly beans. We tried everything we could to get him to look away. People danced, and talked and sang, all to no avail.

This is cute so if anyone wants to know how to make it, here goes. Split the cake batter between to round pans, one is going to be the face, the other one you cut an ear out of each side, leaving a bowtie shape in the center. Hopefully you can visualize it. Then you assemble and decorate however you want.

Hope everyone had a great Easter!!

Girls Camp

2009-04-14T07:11:00.000-07:00

Well, we had girls camp this last week during spring break. The past couple of years the girls have been pretty spoiled, going to a boy scout camp that is practically a resort. This year we moved camps and the girls felt the effects. Don't get me wrong. This was a far cry from desolate. There were elevated platform tents, a mess hall, running water for showers and bathrooms, and even a swimming pool, but still it was several steps down.

Tim and I got to go up for bishops day and stay the night. This was the third year for us and it is always fun. Our girls make up a pretty good percentage of camp, and on bishops night everyone participates in competitions. It is funny to see everyone get into it and be all competitive. After the games were done and everyone was back at their tents is where the real story begins though.

Tim grew up down here, and so did another bishop from the stake. They grew up camping and scouting and.... "interacting with the wildlife". So they got together after everything was dying down for one of their legendary "trips". A little while later, we hear these horrific screams coming from the mess hall - all of the older girls were having an end of camp party in there. Unfortunately, I failed to witness the actual event, but apparantly, the boys decided it would be fun to show off the fruits of their labors! And it didn't go exactly as planned. So after a few frantic minutes, and a roll of duct tape since rope didn't do the trick, the girls were able to relax and enjoy the up close and personal experience before the boys returned the wildlife. Needless to say, it will be the highlight of those girls camp experiences. I know this is relatively vague, but I am sure you understand =0)

The promised picture...

2009-04-14T06:59:00.000-07:00

The most important blessing picture of all... Jackson and his Daddy!

Our trip to Utah!

2009-04-06T17:16:00.000-07:00

Last week we had the chance to go to Utah and we had lots of fun. Tim had to go for business, and hey, since I am not working, and Lindsey and Steve live there, we decided it would be fun if we all went. So while Tim did business I got to relax and hang out with Lindsey. Tim was able to play some basketball, and we all got to go to a BYU volleyball game. They played the number one team, and thats right, the Cougs won! Great game! While we were there we also got to go to Tims mission reuinion and the 10 year anniversary of the Madrid Temple opening. It was fun to see people he served with, especially the Rodriguez, the missionary couple he served with on the island of Mallorca for nine months. We stayed with them for a couple of nights which was great of them. We looked at pictures, played games and just hung out. The only downside of the whole trip was I got food poisoning the night before we flew out. It was touch and go for a while whether or night we were actually going to fly home. Luckily, by the morning I was feeling pretty bad, but pretty good compared to the night before. Thank goodness for blessings! Jackson did pretty good on the flights. Not that babies are anything new on flights to and from Salt Lake =)

Jacksons first flight, that is how I feel about flying too!

Aunt Lindsey and Jackson getting ready for a walk

His first college game!

Tim and JP in the snow, even though you can't see it. I think he liked the cold, he is such a furnace, sweating all the time.

My boys with the Rodriguez. Thank you both so much!

Some blessing pics..More to come later

2009-03-18T11:39:00.000-07:00

Jackson was blessed on March 15 by his dad Tim. In the circle were both Grandpas, Phil, Bro Hammond, Marcelo, Bro Murray, Bro Torsak, and Patriarch. He held off his squirming just enough that he didn't get dropped. It was a great blessing and great meeting all around. We had an open house afterwards so everyone could come and hang out, which is the reason we only have a couple of pictures and none with Tim and Jackson together yet, Tim was at church way early, and got home after most people had shown up and I had already changed Jackson-white gets dirty fast. I will make sure they both get dressed up this week though and take some post-blessing pics.

Jackson and I on his blessing day

I love this picture, its like he knows what is about to happen

My mom made this cute outfit for him to be blessed in. It turned out great! It was so sweet of her and I will definately save it for him to keep.

Lots of people...

2009-03-18T11:19:00.001-07:00

Well, the past few weeks have been pretty hectic... All the families were in town for Jacksons blessing (pictures to come soon), and we have definately been busy. We have been to the beach and the pool quite a bit, and after the initial shock, Jackson has come to if not enjoy, at least be indifferent to the water. We actually got some great shots and video of him, unfortunately they are all on my moms camera, but they will definately be coming soon. We were also able to go to Shark Valley again, go hiking, and generally just being busy. My parents left on Monday, and Tims will be here for a while longer. It has been fun having family around. Here are some random pictures, it is amazing how much he has grown.

It is so fun to see him smiling at people now. No more accidental smiles! He is also ticklish, especially if you catch him in the right mood.

This guy is definately a squirmer. He almost never holds still, only if he is incredibly exhausted, so there is alot of action shots.

This little boy was born the day after Jackson, it is so funny how different their personalities are even as babies. By the way, the guys have swapped babies in this picture, which could definately create some confusion especially later in life.

Squirmy Jackson and laidback Erik

Lots of Firsts

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

His belly button finally fell off and we got to give him a bath. That was the loudest I had heard him scream. He has gotten over it though and now enjoys his baths.

Aaron and Kate came to visit nice sunny Florida for a week and we got to do lots of fun things. Quite the change from freezing Chicago for them. It was great having them down for awhile- I haven't seen Aaron since my sister got married. While they were here we got Jackson started young on a bunch of outside things.

His first trip to the beach. Yes he slept the whole time, no I didn't let him lay in the sun like that-just for the picture.

Airboat ride through the Everglades. Okay so Jackson didn't go because it was so loud, but he did get to be in the picture.

Not sure how to flip the picture yet, he looks like a little old man doesn't he?

Much better, not only did we take this picture, so did every other tourist in the little shop.

Pictures

2009-03-03T10:49:00.000-08:00

Okay, so I am still figuring out how this works so the pictures are kind of backwards

He is about 1 week old here

Tim and JP

Evie with Jackson

Grandma with Jackson-check out his hands-they're huge

Jackson

All of us with Dr. Richards

Going home

Jackson Paul

2009-03-03T10:28:00.000-08:00

Okay, so this is about six weeks late, but hear is all the info on Jackson. He was born January 21st at about 1015 am. He weighed in at 7 lbs 13 oz and was 21 inches long. Thankfully my labor was relatively easy, mostly due to a fantastic epidural. He didn't even come out with a cone head! Thanks to a great husband, my mom, and my sister-in-law, everything went really smoothly and I didn't have too hard a time adjusting. Needless to say, everyone was really excited!