An Update is What I am Calling It.

It has been awhile since I have had a chance to write about whatever is going on or whatever I am feeling like and you know what I am kind of excited except for the fact that all the thoughts in my brain right now revolve around me and how I am dealing with, and doing things. So, I am sorry if that is how this post turns out but sometimes that is how it goes.

Tonight I am kind of wigged out. I shouldn't be but hey it happens. I am wigged out because my Tia had two poop accidents today. They happened while we were not at home, and she dutifully told me after but aughhhhh it is so frustrating. It almost seems like just when I think she has it she has a rough time. Really this shouldn't wig me out because hey she is only like 21 months and I understand wanting to play rather than do what I need to do, but still. Honestly, it doesn't stop or start with just that. Tia is such an energy ball. She just goes and goes and goes until someone makes her stop and even then she will fight it. Tia knows exactly what she wants and doesn't want. Sometimes she tries to communicate it to me and sometimes she just screams. Like tonight she had no interest in dinner until there was applesauce and cookies involved, and by then it was over and the last of everything had been given out. So instead of going peacefully on her way, she starts trying to get what Kylee has. She climbs on the table, plays with things she shouldn't, and is silly beyond all reason. Tia is super smart and knows how to get me. Man that in and of itself drives me nuts. I should be bigger than that. A 21 month old should not be able to get my goat, but oh man can she. Tia is also a very delightful child believe it or not. She can play be herself. She has a genuine smile that can make you smile just about anytime in any situation. Her laugh is so cheery. Her and Kylee are too cute together. They make each other laugh, scream, play, be silly, and stay up way to late. They have figured out a little bit of this siblingness and boy howdy are they LOVING it. Tia really is super smart and determined. She loves to go outside, climb, be independent, and move. I really am blessed to have her.

I don't want you to get the wrong idea and think that only Tia can send her mother over the edge. Like yesterday when Kylee went into Tia's room while Tia was napping because her Kitty needed diapers. Or the fact that sometimes she seems super needy and doesn't want to try to do things on her own or do hard things. It is also slightly frustrating that she gets her sister to to be naughty. This girl can get me frustrated too, but it is just different and it all has to do with timing. Kylee rarely does really bad things, but she is great and choosing horrible, horrible timing. For example, two bites from being done with a meal says she has to go bathroom and has to have the light on, and of course if I am still helping Tia eat then she goes poop and need help wiping. Or she runs around and gets her sister all wired up, then at the last seconds slips her shoes on and is ready to go, but of course now Tia is really hard to get. She is also usually the exact opposite speed of me. If I want to walk leisurely she wants to run, if I am in a hurry she is slower than molasses in January. Oh man, this girl is quite the character. I can't believe that the two little girls I have are so opposite yet go together so well. It is almost scary how well their oppositeness allows them to get along.

Which is another conflict I have. My girls are getting really good at playing alone, but they are kids and so sometimes alone means trouble. Also, sometimes I want to play too, but I end up just killing the fun they were having which breaks my heart. Sometimes I want them to play and leave me alone and they wont. Their playing together can often lead to on or the other of them getting the other to do something they shouldn't. They laugh and are silly at good and bad times. Their togetherness is both crazy and fun, but sometimes a little too crazy. Bath time probably needs to be split, but it is too hard to handle on my own, so it isn't and those two can sure make come up with some crazy things to do.

Because Gaupo doesn't normally go with the topic here its hard to include him in the update, so I will just give one. He just started school again. So, in about 2 years we will have our second masters degree and it will be in Library and Information Science. His job has been a little crazy lately, but luckily not too crazy, so he is still home at good times and for the most part in good spirits. He is dealing with my up and down days very well. He is supportive as always. Although, sometimes I think he wishes his house were just a little calmer when he got home, but such is not the case. He still loves his calling in the elders quorum and really enjoys the brethren he gets to serve with. I am so lucky to have this guy, because even when I am wigging out, super happy, not happy, etc. he sticks it out and supports and loves me through all of it. He is a great dad. He tries really hard to do whats right for his family and put the Lord first. He is a great example to his girls.

In other updates, my sister Kitt moved to Colorado. WAHOOO!!! We loved seeing her this weekend and are really excited to see more of her. Luckily she is really chill, so when my life is kind of crazy and my kids are little energy balls she pretty much just goes with it. I don't think we are as relaxing as her previous getaway locations, but luckily we don't have to compete with them and so this is what she gets and my girls really do love her and wonder why in the world she can't be here all the time. I keep trying to think of ways to get away with just her even if its just for a bit, but I doubt that will happen and that is okay I guess.

Props to you if you made it all the way here. If you are concerned about me, my sanity, my motherliness or any of that know that really I am fine and even today was good just tonight kind of shook me up, but writing about it has helped me see that it really is kind of silly even though the feelings are very really. I really love being a mom. I am so glad I get to stay home and that these are the problems I am having. I am grateful for the scriptures and the Ensign. I am grateful for prayer and my calling in nursery. I love that I get to be me and that even if sometimes I think everyone else seems so much better than me, I am still glad I am me. I will make it. I am a good mom, sister, wife, and daughter. I will always try to do better, but I am normal. I do have ups, downs, stand stills, stand offs, and all kinds of other things. I love life, so grateful I get to live it.

Potty Training

I thought for sure I had blogged about when I potty trained Kylee, but I went back to look and I didn't. I am can not remember everything about it like what exactly I did, when I was frustrated, how long till we did morning and night, etc. So, I am trying not to make that same mistake again by blogging now. We are not done yet, but at least I will have something to look back on when I do the next one.

We started potty training last Monday. That would make Tia about 22 months old. The reason I decided to do it even though she is still not talking is because I knew she could. She takes of her pants almost everyday, she loves to open the potty and sit on it, she would wipe herself, and she was just highly interested in it. So, we went for it. Monday was pretty bad I don't think we had a single success. Luckily, I was watching Ethan that day and he loves to play outside, so most of the accidents happened outside, which is super convenient. Just so you know, I haven't done the fully commando approach yet, they wear panties and if we are out front or going somewhere they they have pants too. Just in case you want to know. Even though Monday had no success, it wasn't too bad actually.

Tuesday was better. We finally had success. We still had quite a few accidents, but some success. We went shopping even. That is a pretty bold move for day two, but you gotta do what you gotta do. Wednesday, she did really good again. Then Thursday I think we had none. She did so awesome. She went when we were at the doctors office. Lasted the 30 min ride there and back. She went while we were at the park. She just did great. Friday though was horrible. We had messes, tantrums, major failed expectations, and to top all off I was having a kind of rough day too. It was so bad. I just wanted to scream. Poor Gaupo had to hear all about the woes of potty training and the awkward pregnant, but no enough to wear maternity clothes stage. It was one really rough day.

Saturday, we went up to Loveland to find maternity clothes that I could wear, and that I was excited to wear. This was a little risky, but it turned out well. Apparently Tia prefers public restrooms, because I never have a problem getting her to go in them. We had a successful shopping trip. I found somethings I really like, and because they are new they haven't been stretched much so they stay on pretty well.  The rest of Saturday went well and pretty much without problems I think. We even went to our stake carnival, and she used the bathroom there twice and really was a champ. Sunday she did pretty good except the fighting on when she should go kind of started. She didn't really want to go when I needed her to, so one time she didn't sit there long enough and while I was teaching a little lesson in nursery she pooped. I mean the stance that I saw when I came back in the room was actually quite funny, because I knew exactly what had happened. Luckily, it was easy to take care of and went pretty much without incident. The rest of Sunday was good.

Yesterday was good, but then I have started coming down with a cold. Oh man, I am such a grouch when I am sick. All I want to do is veg and have it quite, none of which can happen with kids. So today has been rough. We didn't really have accidents, but she kept pulling on my shirt and trying to look down it, touch my face, fight me, etc. When I am sick these things go over not at all well. 

As you can see we are not done, but on a good start. I need to get it so she will tell me, but it so hard to let go once they can go whenever. I really like not having messes, so to try and wait for her to tell me is just more than I can seem to take right now. I will probably wait till the cold passes to work on this step, but if the fighting me about it gets worse than maybe not. Also, we need to do naps and bedtime, but we have to move her out of her crib first. So, we are getting there, but are still far from being complete.

Notes on things I do: To keep accidents from ruining the stroller when I go running---I have her sit on a plastic bag. To make sure they don't get on the carseat---put a diaper underneath her. Its not strapped on and she still gets wet, but the seat doesn't. I ask her if she needs to go and if its been about and hour then I try to get her to go. Whenever she has an accident, I grab her hand and run with her to the bathroom saying "mommy potty! Mommy potty!" I do this so that she knows that is what I want her to say and also, so she knows that we need to go potty in bathroom. Then once we are on the potty we wipe of legs, get new patties, clean underwear if needed, and then go mop up the mess. Potty training is not for wimps, but it is possible and very nice not to have to change diapers hardly at all.                                                                                                                 

Michael Bryce Family Reunion 2015

This is our third year of having Michael Bryce family reunions and they are great. It allows for a time for us all to gather together and the only thing we have going on for a couple of days is being together. Our family reunions are kind of short only about 3 full days together, but it is way better than nothing which is probably what might happen just because of schedule conflicts, money, work, life, etc. So, yes we had our third reunion and it was great let me tell you about our reunion adventure.

We left on Friday evening after work to head to Trinidad, CO. I had made sandwiches and packed us some good other stuff and we headed out. We actually made pretty good time, but we did have a few slow downs along the way. However, considering we were going through Denver around 6:00 I am not going to complain, because I don't think we came to a complete stop except maybe twice. The girls did really good traveling and somehow managed to stay awake the whole time. We arrived in Trinidad around 9:30. The night was rough. First it took awhile to fall asleep. Then somehow the alarm got turned off and went off at midnight. So, I had a really deep 2 hour sleep, so I woke up and was like ready to go. To make matters worse it was extremely hot in our room. We did finally get that figured out, but it took awhile. Then our kids who love to sleep warm started to get slightly restless because of the cooler air. Finally we did get some sleep, but boy oh boy was it a rough night.

Tia being our navigator. She loved holding that giant book.

Kylee wanted her picture taken too. Here she is being silly.

Saturday dawned early with our kids. I guess it wasn't literally early, but it sure felt like it after a rough night. Luckily the hotel had a great breakfast and so after really enjoying that we checked out and were going to head out when I checked the receipt. They overcharged us by $20. So, I made Gaupo go back in and talk to them. They kindly worked it all out and after getting some gas we were on our way. The trip was really quite uneventful. Although, it did seem really long. I think it is because we don't know the route very well, so we don't know when things are close and what things to look for next, or the halfway point, etc. However, we arrive in beautiful Bryce, AZ around 5:00 AZ time. So, we didn't make bad time. The girls did pretty well and overall not a bad trip. That night was mostly spent just settling in and trying to recoup from all that travel. I mean even good travel can exhaust a person.

Tia and Allen being cousins.

Sunday was a beautiful day. We got up and got ready for church. We went to church where I happily dropped my kids off at nursery and then left. Bless those nursery leaders hearts because Tia wasn't very happy about this and apparently cried on and off the whole time. OH! that is so hard. However, I was able to enjoy church. It was fun to sit with all my sisters and my mom. In Relief Society, we had no kids, so we could actually enjoy the whole thing together. Then after church we all came home and had a super simple lunch and put the kids down for naps. Gaupo took a nap too. My siblings and I talked, we may have played a game I don't remember. After naps dinner was made. We had our family plus Josh Jensen, Papa Ross, and my Uncle Mark for dinner. It was fun to catch up with all of them. It is a good thing Uncle Mark has a good sense of humor because he sat down next to Kylee and she literally broke down in tears and didn't want to eat until I sat between them. It was sad/funny. After dinner we did a lot of visiting and the kids just played and played and played. During that time the Boyd Bryce's came up to say Hi, so that was super fun. However, before they left I had to put my kids to bed because they were starting to not play very nice. After all the kids were down we had family council. We discussed the Allen Brady reunion, our next reunion, my parents will, Christmas, Thanksgiving, and the schedule for the week. Its kind of weird to discuss such grown up things. It kind of makes me feel old, yet kind of important. After that meeting we talked some more and then my mom made us go to bed.

Tia in Allen's PJ's doing her happy dance.

Monday was such a fun day. We started off with biscuits and gravy. Then I vacuumed out our car, so it would be ready to sell the next day. Then I helped get stuff ready to go up the mountain. When I say "The Mountain" I mean Graham Mountain. Gaupo, Papa, Betty Jane, Kylee, Tia, and I all loaded in the truck and everyone else went in the van. It will be the last time our family will ever fit in just two cars. Once again a little bittersweet. We drove up to Shannon. That is my family's favorite spot to go. Josh met us up there with his mules. So, I got the pleasure of taking the girls on mule rides with my dad. I haven't ridden in so long I forgot how wonderful it was. It is just kind of nice to sit and look around and not have to worry about driving. When we were finished with that, my brother had gotten the fire going and we had a wiener roast. Fire roasted food is the BEST! My mom had all the trimmings for traditional somores, cookie somores (I actually REALLY liked these), somores with fancy chocolate, chips, and drinks. It was AWESOME! After eating we kind of just hung around. The kids played bat, and just had fun running around. Around 3 when the kids were getting cranky, we left. They all feel asleep going down the mountain, but it really wasn't enough to last them through the night. When we got home, Jack and Lindsay made dinner and we went swimming. Then we ate dinner and boy Jack and Lindsay make REALLY good pizza. Then we had family home evening. Then us adults played Quiddler and called it a night.

Papa, and Tia on Treasure. Kylee and I on Tigger.

Papa, Tia, Kylee, and I.

Kylee, Papa, Betty Jane, and Me.

Kylee and Papa.

Kylee and Me.

My Mom.

Tia getting ready to play in the water.

Kylee, Gaupo, Tia, and Me.

Kylee, Betty Jane, Tia, Allen, Papa, Skippy (dog)

Tia.

Tuesday started off with a griddle breakfast. It was so good. The men did a really good job cooking it up. Then we headed off to Thatcher park to play. The kids played good their for awhile. Then we headed back to the house. Once we were there we hung out, got some lunch, and put the kids down for naps. During naps Gaupo and I bought our first minivan. That's right folk I now own a minivan. We bought it from my parents, who were very generous to sell it in the first place. They have done a great job caring for it. We got our trip plate ( a piece of paper you put in the window) and headed home. We sold the Impala to Jack and Lindsay. I thought we would both have a harder time than we did, but honestly Kylee has had the roughest time. It has taken until like yesterday for her to start saying that she likes this car. She was always saying that she liked the other car better, and wondered why we had to sell it to Uncle Jack. Anyway, after all the car stuff was done we went swimming again. After about an hour swimming, I came back in and got the girls changed and started dinner. Gaupo and I were in charge and made chili rellano casserole, beans, and spanish rice. It all turned out good. After we finished eating we dashed off to the Grant's house to see their tortises. At first the girls were afraid of them, but they slowly warmed up to them and both Kylee and Betty Jane got on Thor and rode him. It was so cool. I honestly haven't really wanted pets, but I was kind of tempted by these. Anyway, so cool and such a fun activity. When we got back it was time to put the kiddos to bed. Then we visited and called it a night.

Betty, Tia, and Kylee on super awesome teeter-toter.

Betty, Kylee, and Tia before heading to the park.

Kylee, Me, Tia, and Gaupo.

Kylee on one of the smaller tortoises.

Tia pointing at the tinny one.

Tia riding one.

Kylee and Betty Jane on one.

Betty, Tia, and Me.

Wednesday we left. It was sad. I mean at least others were leaving too, but still like it just felt too soon to leave. I think that me+lots of travel=needs more than just a few days, so I can act normal. Anyway, we had to go. We went to Trinidad and had a pretty good stay at the hotel, still a bit rough but much better than the last time.

Thursday we slowly got our groove on and went home. Thus ended our wonderful trip. I know it doesn't sound like much, but time together is so precious. I just feel like I blow it every time I get the chance, but luckily my family keeps inviting me back and love me anyway. I sure love being around them and am grateful for the wonderful time that we do have together. It is truly a wonderful blessing. 

Together Forever

This weekend we went to Idaho. Yes, again. We went for Gaupo's brother Scott's wedding. It was a little crazy, but it was totally worth it. There were so many great moments, memories, and really our kids did pretty darn well on the drives.

We started off on Friday after Gaupo got off work. He ended up having to work through his lunch, so he was able to come home early, so we got a little earlier start than we were originally planning on. It was both good and bad. It was good that we got off earlier because we got to the hotel earlier, but working 8 hours straight is really hard on Gaupo's system. Consequently, I drove most of the way. This time it worked out good because I was wide awake and a little antsy just sitting there and for once Gaupo was completely fine being a passenger. The girls did really well until about 8 o'clock and then they started getting grumpy. I bet it was because it was past bedtime and their naps left a lot to be desired. However, we finally got them to calm down and they fell asleep making the last of our trip very pleasant. When we got to the hotel it was around 10:30 and the girls of course were super excited. They were running around looking at everything, exploring the bathroom and closet, and just loving that it was a new place to run around. They were not too happy to go to bed, but because it was so late we were all going to bed, so once there was nothing going on they both fell asleep quickly.

Saturday was the wedding day. We left our hotel in Green River around 9:15 a little later than planned, but when we arrived late to the lunch it hadn't even really started yet, the caterer was just getting the food there, so it wasn't totally untactful just a little. There was a tasty dutch oven dinner. With wedding cake for dessert. Aubrey looked absolutely beautiful. She had her hair and makeup done fancy and she just looked so mature and I thought really pretty. Scott was Scott, handsome and just really happy to be getting married. I am sorry, but guys don't really look that much fancier on their wedding day, but girls usually do. Anyway, it was so fun to watch them and they looked very pleased with their special day. After the luncheon, we all headed to the Logan Temple where Scott and Aubrey were sealed. It is such a neat experience every time. This time especially for me. I don't really know why, but this time as I was listening to that sealing covenant I was blown away, but the commitment. It is HUGE. I honestly can't believe well I can, but it still seems amazing that we do that for the most part in our twenties. We make a major commitment to someone else and to God when most people would argue life is just beginning. However, that commitment doesn't come without blessings and power. I do know that covenant holds a lot of binding power and if we stay faithful to it we will be blessed. After the sealing and pictures we headed to Swanlake. On the way, Gaupo and I talked about what I was thinking about, and about how you keep the "spark" in marriage alive. It was interesting to realize that spark and power come when we depend on and serve each other. The more we look after and serve our spouse at least for us the more "spark" our marriage seems to have. It is when we get lazy and take each other for granted that things get run of the mill. We were the first ones back, so we got some drinks picked out and some cake mix cookies made. Then we waited for the pizza to get there. When Gary, Aaron, and Melanie arrived with pizza we were still doing things and getting kids changed and things, so it took a bit to get to the food, but we got there and it was as good as ever. That night by the time baths were taken, and a little talking had been done it was time to hit the sack. We were all pretty tired after that great long day.

Kylee by the back of the Logan Temple doors.

Tia. She loved these flowers and fence.

Tia.

Kylee.

Tia and Kylee.

Tia, Me, Aubrey, Scott, Kylee and Gaupo. Such a fine bunch.

Sunday was thankfully a day of rest. When we first made plans to go out, it looked as if it would have to be a travel day, but we were blessed with some vacation time we didn't think we would have and so we were able to rest. We went to church in Swanlake. Kylee went to Grandma's class and then to primary. She was so excited. She loves going to primary. There was no nursery so Tia and the other visitors that were there played while us parents took over. The women, Heidi, a Gambles Mom, and I did Sunday School and then Jeff, Jason, and Brandon Gambles watched the kiddos during Relief Society. It worked out very well. Then we went home and had a delicious dinner and put the kids down for naps. While they were sleeping, I went to visit my Grandpa. I got to spend a little over two hours with him. I know that doesn't sound very long, but usually don't get to visit longer than and hour and almost never by myself, so this was GREAT! Anyway, we visited and chatted and remembered together. It was awesome. It was so great to hear my Grandpa talk. Family is so important to him. He wants everyone in his family to be his forever and ever. That is why the back of his and Grandma's headstone says "May there be no empty chairs." I can not even begin to tell you the love that my Grandpa has for his family. Also, we were able to go the cemetery and I was able to see the headstone he picked out and hear about why he chose everything he did. Then on the way home we talked some more about families, about where Grandma was, and about how we would one day see her again. As he talked about all these things, both in the car and at home, I could tell that my Grandpa KNEW these things. He didn't just believe them or hope for them like I do right know. No, he knew them and was holding tight to that. I honestly can not believe the strength of his testimony. It is truly amazing. It really helped strengthen mine, and honestly be better able to look to the future with joy. My other favorite thing was when we talked about the summers that I got live with them. I am so glad they happened, so lucky and blessed to be able to know my grandparents like that. One of my favorite memories from those summers is traveling EVERY Saturday, except for the couple where my dad went with me instead, with my grandpa to the farmers market in Idaho Falls. We talked about that because I said "I am sure you had better things to do than to go there with me and make sure I would stay awake." His reply was great, he said, "I bet then I thought I did, but I look back now and there isn't a better way I could have spend those Saturdays." I know I am so lucky to have had that time to talk with him and just to be with him. Anyway, I loved my visit with Grandpa it was so great to chat and I didn't have to worry about a thing it was WONDERFUL!

When I got back to the farm, we went over to Clifton for Gaupo's cousins Eagle Court of Honor. They did a really good job, and then had a great dinner after. It was kind of late for such a party, but it was still really fun to go and to participate in something that we would normally have to say "Oh man, we can't go we live too far away." Plus it was fun to visit again. Although, visiting when you have kids is a lot different than it was before them. When we got home we put the kiddos to bed and then stayed up till about 11:00 chatting with Grandma. It was so great.

Monday was a travel day. We got off a little before 10:00 and headed home. We stopped for lunch and the girls thought that was great. They love to eat "fancy." So grateful that fancy for my kids is Wendy's. For the most part they did really well. Toward the end again they got pretty whinny, but hey they are kids and traveling is rough, so I really can't complain too much. We got home a little after 7:00 and had beans and cheese and then sent those tired kids and ourselves to bed.

This trip was totally worth all the crazy traveling.

Family--It's All About Time

The week of July 11-19 we took a family vacation, meaning I took my family to see family and we call it a vacation. It was a vacation and super-dee-duper nice to see family again. It seems like an eternity since seeing them. I will warn you right now there are not many pictures and the ones I have aren't very good. 

We got into the car to head to Idaho at pretty close to 7:30. We are all buckled in ready to go. Gaupo turns the key and nothing. Great! We are later than I wanted to begin with and now the battery is dead. Luckily this winter we bought our own jumper cables, and had a second car, so we didn't have to go knocking on any neighbors doors. However, it was kind of a process to jump the car because our jumper cables aren't super long, and of course the batteries had to be on opposite sides. So, we had to push the Impala out, then do some crazy turning in the driveway, so the Honda would line up. Then we jumped the car, and parked the Honda and headed on our way pretty close to 8:00AM. So really not too bad, but still it made me really worried to have to jump my car before heading across the barren Wyoming desert. The rest of the trip was pretty and pretty uneventful. We arrived in Swan Lake around 5:30. Oh man, I am out of practice for long drives, and so are my kids. By the time we got there, we were all very done. However, summer travel is best because even though we left late and got there late there was still plenty of daylight at both ends of the trip. It is really hard to leave and arrive in rising and fading light in the winter. Anyway, Grandma was super excited to see us and of course had a great feast waiting and ready. Later that night the girls got to take a bath in Grandma's new bathroom, and they thought it was so cool. Kylee wanted a bath just about every night we were there because she liked it so much. 

Sunday morning  was super chill because we didn't have church until 10:00. I will be honest it is probably one of the first times I have been early at that house for church. Usually I am ready to go when everybody else is, but usually not too much before. So, this time it was really nice to be able to relax and visit before we had to head to church. The meetings at church were good and true to Swanlake style ended early. Thus, the boys went home after priesthood making sure to leave the necessary cars for the women folk to get home with and started dinner. Dinner was great. After dinner, Jeff and Heidi who had come up that morning headed to Logan to visit Grandma Hammond and the rest of us visited and then played games while the kids took naps. Jeff and Heidi got back for dinner and we had fun visiting with them and watching the kids play until it was time for bed.

Monday was a family day. I started out by doing a run. I really wish I had more time to do that when I visit there because I miss running in cool air, and beautiful places that are quiet. It is so nice to run in peace. To not have like a million cars rushing past you. Granted for living in the city I live where there are beautiful out of traffic places to run, but there is just something about running in the country that is different. Anyway, when I got back breakfast was ready. Then we all went up to pond to check out the new toys. Grandma and Grandpa have gotten themselves a couple of paddle boats, and a cabin up there. It was pretty fun to paddle around out there and be out on the lake. Kylee loved fishing. She even "caught" one. I caught one too, and no one was there to help me, so I had to touch it myself. I am so much for afraid than I should be. Once I grabbed the fish it was no big deal, but man getting myself to do it was quite hard actually. It was a good fishing day and the winner of the biggest fish contest was Aaron. His fish was HUGE, and a female so he had to spawn the eggs into the pond before he could put it in the bucket. The kids tired before Gaupo and I, so we sent them back and I pretty sure someone had to just scoop Kylee up and take her away, because she wasn't about to go anywhere without me. Luckily they did though and Gaupo and I were able to paddle around just the two of us. Oh man, there is nothing like the peace of the country. When we headed back we stopped by the shop to check out the progress on the grill. Grandpa, Aaron, and Gaupo got it working great and Grandma cooked us up some burgers for lunch. After lunch was naps. During naps we went through fabric, and I think played a game. Then we played with the kids, had dinner, sent Jeff and Heidi on there way. Then we put the kids to bed and played games again.

Tuesday we went to Jeff and Heidi's house in Firth. We stopped by Grandpa-Great's on the way up. It was so nice to visit him, but so hard to leave. It is so hard to see him alone. He is a rockstar, and handling everything really well, but you just don't want leave him you know he is lonely. However, we had to go and Jeff and Heidi were actually late getting back from the doctor, so we went to visit Scott and see the place that him and Aubrey have pick to live after they are married. Scott I think was quite proud and definitely bitten by a nesting bug. Hopefully he saves some room and ideas for Aubrey. Then we went to Jeff and Heidi's house and got the tour. Then we helped with lunch and had that. Grandma and Grandpa and Melanie and Blaine came up and joined us. Grandpa had to go back for farm stuff and Grandma left with him, but Melanie and Blaine got to chill with us. It was really fun to see Jeff and Heidi and their kids in their own space. I think everyone is more relaxed and themselves when they are in their own space. Plus, it is always fun to see where someone lives. We had a great time letting the kids play, and play, and play, and play. We left around 4ish. The kids were so tired. They all slept all the way home. It was a really fun day. I am so glad we went up there and that Jeff and Heidi were totally okay with hanging out with us more.

Wednesday we stayed put. By that I mean we stayed at Grandma's house. However, I doubt we were still very long. We rode four-wheelers, visited the cows, went on walks, swung on the swings, jumped on the tramp, played with toys, and did all those things over and over. We were in heaven. During all that play we had a delicious lunch and put the kids down for a nap. Grandma, Gaupo, Melanie, and I played the farming game. It really is a good game, if you can stand to play it long enough. After naps, we started the play and visiting the cows, rides, etc over again. Our kids love, love being able to do all that stuff just out the front door, and frankly so do I. After we put the kids to bed we played some more games. Then I worked on some reunion stuff and we went to bed.

Thursday was also a stay put day. I don't remember the exact order of things, but we went to the store to get the mail with Melanie. We took a walk, and played. We made cupcakes and lunch. We had naps and played games during that time. Then we went up to the pond and paddle around and played up there a bit. Then we came back and Grandma made us some delicious fish for dinner. We got the girls bathed and in bed then I finished up reunion stuff. Then we played the game of life. This time Aaron caved in and joined us. It was really fun. He is honestly kind of a sorry winner, but it was fun to play with him especially because he had a boatload of kids. Oh man, so fun to just chill with family.

Friday we had to say good-bye. It was sad, but we had such a great visit. We stopped in Logan to visit Grandma Hammond on our way to the Allen Brady Reunion. The girls had a blast playing in her kids kingdom and enjoyed the presents they got from her. We enjoyed visiting with her and Gaupo's Aunt Sarah. It was so good to see them.

Here are the pics I have from this trip:

Guapo, Kylee, and Ti building a "big, big tower."

The girls play together.

Blaine, Guapo, Tia, and Kylee with their giant tower. It went all the way to the ceiling.

Kylee, Grandma, Tia, and Me making cake.

Kylee on the way to or from Heber Valley Camp. She wanted her picture taken. 

Then we picked up lunch and headed to Heber Valley Camp. We thought we knew where we were going, but alas we did not and had to stop and ask for directions. Luckily, we got some and were still one of the first to arrive. I like being first that way I feel like I don't miss anything. Also, we were able to setup our stuff and help with other things before stuff got in full swing. There was a lot of visiting as family arrived and we waited till dinner time. John and Karen were in charge of dinner and did a wiener roast. Oh man, fire-cooked food is so good. After dinner there was a little down time, and then we had a program. What it actually was, were some games to prove we all have talents, maybe just not ones we can perform. It was a very fun activity. Then it was time for bed. My heart yearned to visit longer and play more games, but my little Kylee was not about to have any of Mom wandering off. So, I stayed put and tried to sleep. It was kind of rough because about every two hours Kylee would wake up and ask where I was. I finally just moved my bed to the floor right by her, so I could just whisper to her and touch her arm and then fall back asleep. 

Saturday morning was a beautiful morning. It started pretty early. Luckily some of the Bradys are early risers, so Kylee could cuddle with Oma and I could have other people to talk to. We had a scrumptious breakfast of my all time favorite--biscuits and gravy. My mom, dad, Klaire, and others did a fantastic job with it. There was plenty and I think everyone enjoyed it. After breakfast we had a little devotional. The topic was Grandma-Great. Man we all miss that great lady so much, but we still know of her love for us. Then after that Ryan and I took for over for the "family history hour." It actually ended up taking like 2 hours but that wasn't our fault people were having too much fun. Ryan ran a jeopardy game that Kara made up and I ran a scavenger hunt that I designed. The part everyone was working on for so long was matching stories and names. Then they wanted the correct answers, so it all just took time. Honestly though, I didn't hear a single complaint and everyone looked to be enjoying themselves. After we did that, it was lunch time. Then there was a business meeting. It was decided that the Allen Brady Reunion would become and annual event and would try to take place around the 4th of July. Also, it was decided that my Mom was in charge of the next reunion. I thought it went really well, and I pretty sure everyone knew what was coming, but everyone had a chance to speak their mind, so hopefully they are mostly satisfied.

During the meeting most of the kids disappear, and all of us first cousins were pretty hesitant to go track them down for games. So we didn't. We just talked until someone said that we really needed to get the games started. I think it is so cool that us cousins can do that. We can just talk and we talk to everyone. There aren't little groups formed that are the same every time. We talk about different things, and best of all we enjoy each other. Anyway, it was the Kitt and Klaire show after that. They had some fun games for us to play: eating chocolate bar with socks and knives, charades and reverse charades, then relay races, and a frozen t-shirt contest. It was really fun. Although, our family is way more competitive than I thought, however, they are good sports so it was still very fun. After all that fun, it was time to clean up and head home. Boo. 

We went to Gaylynn's house were Seth and Kara met up with us. It was so fun to have all my sisters around. I feel like it is such a rarity to be with them. I wish it could have been longer than 0.2 seconds, but at least it happened and I think everyone enjoyed it. It was another late night, but Kylee did better and I personally slept really well. 

Sunday morning was a little crazy, but good. We got to sacrament meeting and then had to leave. We were doing really great and then hit stop-go traffic around Hanging Lake on the I-70. Then Kylee got carsick. Not like "oh, I don't feel good." No, it was "Mom, I am going to spit-up," and she did. Luckily we got most of it a bag and could clean up the rest with diaper wipes. If it had only happened once it wouldn't have been too bad, but no it happened more than that. Finally we got to a place were we could pull off. We stopped for awhile and walked around. We let her throw-up a little. Then gave her Gatorade and priesthood blessing. Plus we re-stocked on plastic bags just in case. Then we headed out again. Then just after Eisenhower Tunnel, about 2 hours-ish from home we hit major traffic with dumb people, and nothing we can do about it. It took forever. We had already been in the car for a long time and were ready to be done. We left around 10:15, so we should have been home by around 5:45 or 6 and we didn't get home until 7:30ish or maybe later it was awful. Oh man, it seriously tempts Gaupo and I to never use the I-70 again which is too bad because it really is a beautiful area to drive through. 

We survived the trip. It was kind of rough for me which is why I didn't write this post last week. I was so not feeling well. I spent the night laying on the couch trying to do nothing that would hurt. It was pretty pitiful. However, this week is so much better, and we are doing great. Even last week wasn't bad, except for I just didn't feel well so it made it kind of hard to enjoy all those wonderful things that happened.

Family is worth the time. I doubt I even did this trip justice and this is a LONG post, but it is too hard to express all the feelings of love, the detail that made the trip so great. One moment I want to share real quick was when we were traveling to Jeff and Heidi's I just started crying because being right there were so close to family. I mean yeah it took us all of 1.5 hours maybe to get to there house. That is nothing compared to 9 or 10 hours. That was the "far-away" family. Everyone else was right there. My grandpa was 15 minutes away. I just love the place and the people, so much that I literally asked Gaupo "Why do we choose to live so far away?" "Why do we give up being so close to all this?" Gaupo being the great unshaken guy that he says because of all the things we have out there too. And it is true I love it out here. It is super far away from everyone I love, so dearly and so many good memories and activities, but I can't deny it is were we are suppose to be and honestly it fits us just perfect, but man is it hard sometimes. So, if you live close to family don't take it for granted make the most of those relationships, because for some of us we don't get that chance or at least not right now, and you are so lucky to have it. 

4th of July 2015

Well another great 4th of July is down in the books for our family. Gaupo and I really love the 4th. It is really a day to celebrate. It is a holiday that is meant for fun, food, family, and joyous celebration. We were lucky this year to be able to start our celebrations on the 3rd of July. I was pretty excited when I found out we would get that day off. I wasn't too sure because the Library is open on Saturdays, so I wasn't sure if just closing it for the 4th is what they would observe. Anyway, we lucked out and got to start having Gaupo home on the 3rd.

To be perfectly honest we didn't do a whole lot of fun stuff with that extra day off. However, we did do things and we enjoyed a relaxing time together. Anyway, the day started off right on time actually, so we got up and had banana nut oatmeal muffins for breakfast. After we got all that cleaned up, we went to the store. We had quite a shopping list for all the foods we wanted for the 4th of July. We went shopping, and purchased some new bottled water to rotate our current supply. So, what did we do with the old stuff. Well the girls were really excited about the bottles, so I let them each have one. Well it went good for a bit, but then Tia decided to dump hers. As in turn it completely upside down and dump it out all over the kitchen floor. After Tia did it, Kylee really wanted to do. Luckily she was content to go outside to dump hers. Once the mess inside was put away, I gave the girls some more bottles to dump, and water my plant with. Then on a whim, I asked Kylee if she would like me to turn on the sprinkler. She was super excited, and actually both of them played in it for quite a while. Tia didn't like it as much, but Kylee really did have a great time and got totally soaked. It was so fun to watch them.

Kylee getting her beach ball from the sprinkler.

Tia avoiding the water at this point.

Once we were done with that, it was time for lunch. Then we did naps. During nap time, I started making crab dip/salad, potato salad, and baked beans. These are all things that taste much better over time. It pretty much took the whole nap time to make those things with the boiling and cutting and waiting time. Once the girls woke up we decided to go outside. We were playing out there and our neighbor came over and sat under our tree and talked to us for a long time. It was great to catch up with him and just visit. When I finally finished talking, Gaupo had the fire ready and we roasted hot dogs, and polishes. I really wanted to eat outside, but my kids would have nothing to do with it. So, we went inside. Luckily the coals stayed hot enough that I could go cook me some smores.

This is Tia with her smore. She loved eating and mashing that thing. Kylee kept taking delicate bites trying not to get the marshmallow on  her. Too funny how different they are.

Oh man, fire roasted food is the best. After putting the kids to bed, Gaupo and I finished off the night by watching a movie.

Saturday was the 4th. We started out by sleeping in. Then when we got up and dressed I took the girls outside to hang our flag. They LOVE seeing the flags. We are lucky enough to have the scouts put one out for us, and have one on our house. Then we came inside and played for a bit. I made a grape salad. Next we cooked our own pancake breakfast. I had splurged and bought sausage, so we had sausage, bacon, hash browns, and pancakes. It was so good. Gaupo does a great a job on our camp chef. Breakfast just tastes so good.

Kylee eating a sausage.  As she ate it said, best thing ever! She is so silly.

Tia with her pancake.

After we had breakfast, I took the girls over to play at our friend Ethan's house. It was really interesting. My girls aren't use to playing at other peoples homes, and Ethan isn't use to having to share his stuff. However, they did really good and I really do think they had a good time. Gaupo stayed home and cut his hair and got a few other things done  and then came and rode home with us. We then had lunch, and nap time. During nap time Gaupo got out his video game, and I took a nap. After naps we let the girls play in the kiddie pool, and then take baths. Then we started getting ready for dinner with the missionaries. I cut up fruit, while Gaupo grilled chicken and our girls played. At 5:00, the missionaries arrived and we had dinner. It seemed to me like Thanksgiving, just 4th of July style. We had grilled chicken, grilled squash, baked beans, crab dip/salad, potato salad, grape salad, cut blueberries and strawberries, and jello. Then we topped it off with ice cream for dessert. Once we sent the missionaries off, we played for a bit and headed next door for more party. They were grilling burgers and then had everyone else bring sides and dessert. It was super fun to visit with a couple of our neighbors and then our neighbors niece. It was really fun. After dinner when it was kind of dark, our neighbor Mark started his firework show. Kylee even held a sparkler. It was a really good show. We put Tia to bed before it started, but Kylee got to stay for most, before I decided to put her to bed. Then I went back and watched the rest and headed up onto the hill to watch the ones the city puts on at the fairgrounds. Once they were over, I came down and Gaupo and I chatted and then went to bed. Such a great day.

Sunday went kind of back to normal. So, that pretty much sums up our holiday. It may not sound that cool to you, but we really enjoyed it. I loved celebrating with the people around us, and being with my family. The food was an added bonus, I will be honest. Sorry there are so few pictures, but it happens.

As a side note, Tia got her hearing tested on Monday, and from what they can test she can hear everything. So, we will just see what happens from here I guess. To go with the random note, here are some random fun pictures.

We have a lot of cement, but these two loving riding in the rocks. I don't think we will be a road bike family.

Kylee wanted this picture of herself. She like to ride her bike, and wont get off until it is time to go in, because she knows if she does than Tia will want to ride it. 

Kylee sat down today and said, "Mom, take a pictures." So, I did and here it is--Kylee sitting on the tractor wearing her "Queen Elsa."

Kylee and Tia

This summer has been super fun. I love summer!! After returning from my vacation to Arizona, I took my mom's advice and decided to not enter Kylee in swim lessons again until probably the fall. That way I can schedule it during the day and hopefully have a teacher who Kylee will listen to, and that will tell Kylee that she is a big girl and can do these things. As a result of this decision and noticing how much of a difference swimming everyday in AZ made, I decided we would try to go swimming everyday, or pretty close. This has been wonderful! Not only have we had fun, but both my girls are growing in their water abilities.

Tonight we went to the rec center to swim. It is the first time in a long time that we have been there. WOWZERS that place is crowded! I was really worried that both my girls wouldn't have much fun because their were so many people, but I was wrong. Kylee had a blast. She started out kind of normal, which is following Tia around and doing the slides. Then she got going. She started floating her legs behind her. Then doing her swimming which is floating her legs and then lifting one arm out of the water at a time. Then she did her diving. Which is when she splashes into the water and drives to dive. Then she was just playing around and I was keep tabs on Tia and she says "Look, Mom." I look over and she holds her breath, floats her legs, and sticks her WHOLE head in the water. I was shocked, happily shocked, but still shocked. Then she showed me how she could kiss the bottom, and how she could lift up her arms and stick her face in still. This is AMAZING people!! This girl has not done this of her own free will and choice ever. I am so proud of the big steps she is making. Here is a little video what she was doing. Sorry for all the noise and that it isn't very clear.

Tia has been loving summer as well, but her update is of a different note. I took Tia to the doctors last Wednesday for her 18 month check-up. Everything was great, except the doctor (and me) were concerned that she doesn't talk yet. By doesn't talk, that is what I mean. She doesn't really jabber, she is super quiet, and doesn't say any real words except for every random once in awhile when you think you hear one, but its rare. The doctor said that wasn't normal, so we needed to get her speech and hearing tested. Well today we had the speech test. I was wondering what they would do for a speech test for someone who is 18M and doesn't talk. However, it was very interesting. They tested for object recognition, listened for her to make any noises, sounds, anything, had her point to things, or copy us, and things like that. Tia and Kylee quite enjoyed the test. We walked out and Kylee said "She didn't even do anything to Tia." Anyway, she does have a delay in speech and in recognition. She doesn't seem to associate words with the object. For example, when asked to had mommy the spoon, she would just pick up anything and had it to me. So, we have been recommended to meet with a speech pathologist and get some help. You can tell that Tia wants to communicate, but for some reason just can't do it. We have a few things to work on, but the early intervention people probably wont call us for about a week, so it will be a bit before we start with them.

In any case, I think both my children are taking very positive steps in conquering their unique challenges. I love that my girls are so different and special. Each one possesses unique qualities and gifts and luckily for me they actually compliment each other very well. I am so proud of these two. They are so awesome.